#anyway i had just gotten done doing some chores and i sat down and was like

[skeletalheartattack]

[gowns]

if you ever find yourself thinking "i don't want to talk to this person about this problem, it would be so awkward and create tension"

one of the most uncomfortable conversations i've ever had was also a positive influence on the rest of my life.

when i was 18-19 years old, i moved out of the college dorms and into my first apartment, with my college dormmate + two random ladies we found on craigslist. we didn't really have anything in common, but the ladies were nice enough and they thought we were nice enough so we all agreed to move in with each other.

i have ~executive dysfunction~ and i was raised in a barn, so i really had no clue how chores worked or how to keep a common space clean. common 18-19 year old issue, tbh! the ladies from craigslist were a few years older, around 24-25, and they seemed increasingly annoyed with me as the weeks went on.

at one point, one of them knocked on my door, and said we needed to have a talk. she took me aside, sat me down on the couch, then listed, one by one, all the things that she noticed that i didn't clean, things i kept messing up, various ways i was inconsiderate of my other roommates. she said "maybe it's because i'm older than you, but you're really dropping the ball here, and we need to get on the same page with chores." she made a chore chart and handed it to me. and we followed it from that point on...

having to have that conversation was so anxiety-inducing! i'm sure it was hard for her, and man, it was hard to hear for myself. my face was red and hot, and i mumbled some excuses, but i knew she was right; i had been an inconsiderate clod. how could i do better?

well, i followed the chore chart, i gradually looked up more ways to take care of myself and the apartment, i gave my other roommates a lot more space and notice about things... i was still an inconsiderate clod imho but i was trying. i was really trying!

and to this day i think, wow, that one awkward conversation leveled me up in a way that tip-toeing around the issue, or passive aggressive remarks, or whatever, would have never gotten through to me. it had to be a direct conversation. she had to be honest and i had to be open to it. and we both were better off for it.

more often than not, just being direct and addressing something that's bothering you head-on will yield the most results. you might annoy the other person; they might completely disagree or get defensive. but at least you get the peace of mind of knowing you spoke up, and honestly, even when the other person has their walls up, they tend to marinate on it and change happens regardless.

anyway, if you needed any motivation to talk to someone about something that's bugging you. this is it. might as well do it now. no point in doing it down the line, when the damage is already done!

[writingoddess1125]

Relationship Fluff

Simon 👻, Soap 🧼, König 👑

They realize they are getting chubby being in a happy relationship

Simon, Soap, König x GnReader

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Ghost - Comfort Meals

You and Simon had been dating for well over a year now, it had been a happy accident how you two had met. What was anquick tumble in the sheets after a drunken night you had woken up early and made breakfast for the solider much to his surprise. Truthfully it had been far too long since he had a home-cooked meal so it had been a delight to his senses and heart.

Assuming it was just a one off, Simon did agree to take your number and 'maybe' stop by if he got the need or chance.. Which ended up backfiring on him wonderfully, It took 6 months for you two to move in together, 8 months for you to see his face and Simon taking leave more often to be with you.

This was one of those times, having 3 weeks to himself to spend being pampered in your love and affection. That and the cooking- he hadn't realized how much he missed good hot meals that weren't from a bag or a mess hall, So he was practically a garbage disposal for you. Eating all the food you had to make, every treat you wiped up from a pinterest blog.

It was heaven!

He had gotten up early, like every morning and sat out on the patio taking in the morning air while reading. He did some basic chores and straightened up, knowing you preferred the kitchen area to yourself. Saying it was 'Yours' afterall.

"Honey! Breakfast is ready" You call out, Simon quick to set down his book and roll up. Knowing a nice breakfast and black coffee was waiting for him.

"Thank you Lov" He said softly and kissed your cheek as you set out both plates, pouring a cup of black coffee for himself as the plate of waffles, eggs, and bacon greeting him.

"My angel" He said and kissed your cheek lovingly as you sat next to him to tuck into the meal.

Mindless conversation taking place between you two as you guys ate, Simon getting seconds and a cup of tea for himself as well.

"Oh before I forget, Si can you go to the market to pick up some things? I was going to make cakes tonight" He nodded at the simple request, the closest market at around a 20 minute drive from your home anyway so it wasn't an issue.

"I can head out now, Get it done with" He said calmly, Standing up to take both your empty plates and cleaned them up. Always cleaning since he felt it was fair before heading upstairs to change to head into town.

Deciding that his jeans and coat would do fine started to change into that quickly, Mumbling about needing gas and.. and?..

Simon Paused- The pants felt tighter then it had before.. even if these were admittedly older pants they should have been fine not a new tightness around his admittedly full stomach.

Pulling off his shirt he took a look at his for in the bathroom mirror- while still seeing his muscular and admittedly large build however around his stomach and sides there was a new thin layer of.. Fluff? Some pudge that had defiently not been there before and just slightly dampening his abs.

"The hell?" He mumbled, look over himself. You walking into the room as well and seeing him staring at himself in the mirror.

"Something wrong?" You question, walking back to him as you see him looking at himself in the mirror.

"I've gained weight?" He questioned as he looked back at you, This surpsing you as you personally didn't see any difference.

"You look fine to me, Sexy too" You wink which earns a laugh from the man who quickly pulls you into his arms.

"While I do appreciate your support I've gained some weight. Seems I've gotten too comforble with the nice suppers and cakes" He said with a sigh, surprised he had let the comfort of food do this. You kissed his cheek gently and giggle.

"It's probably relationship weight"

"Relationship weight?" He questioned with a brow as you laugh and blush softly.

"It common for people in a comforble and happy relationship to sort of- Get comforble physically if you will" He hummed at hearing this smirking at the idea.

"Well if that is the case, I'm going to end up like the Stay Puff Marshmellowman" He said with a chuckle and kissed you.

Soap - Candy Monster

Candy- candy everywhere. That's how you two even found each other was by candy. Johnny wasn't a man huge of sweets till he met you, working as a repair specialist for the team you would fix all the toys they constantly broke- often eating on candy or giving out candy whenever any of the team members would stop by to gather their things. Johnny enjoying your clear sweet tooth always partook in your offers, which lead to hour long talks, sharing different candies from around the world and eventually dates. Who knew that just some candy could lead the Scot to the happiest time of his life-

Two years of relationship bliss which had fulfilled the Soilders life in ways he didn't know possible. While he was still in the service with you in his life, he was starting to take some steps back in order to create a distance for you to be in his life. The nice condo adding to this as well since you two had moved in together the year previously.

"The new candy bag is here!" You call out as you walk into the kitchen area seeing Johnny sipping his drink and excitedly looking to see what was brought. The monthly surprise bag of candy was your idea and truthfully he had found it genius.

"Uh let's see, some yuzu japanese white chocolate, Lucas chamoy candy, oh Cream savers! I used to love these" You say cheerfully ajd quickly open the bag- Johnny curious as well as he held out a hand which you happily handed him a few.

Johnny unraveled the strawberry sweet and put it to his lips as normal. Used to the constant wave of new confectionery that you passed to him, humming as he tasted the waves of strawberry and cream that filled his senses.

"Oh these are good- a little odd?" He hummed as he bit through the hard treat making your face scrunch up.

"Impacient as always" You muse as he crunched through the hard candy with a grin.

"Just like to get to the good part" He winked taking a few more candies into his mouth as you giggle at his reaction.

"Still ready for dinner tonight?" Johnny questioned, a gleam in his eyes as he watched your enthusiasm at it.

"Yeah- Also the show is on tonight" You remind him earning a knowing smile from the man, His eyes drifting to his phone to check the time which prompted you to do the same.

"Oh the shows almost on! Wanna watch it then head to dinner?" You said cheerfully, always watching to catch your favorite TV show before leaving anywere. Johnny of course agreeing before he headed upstairs to get a head start on changing.

"I'll be right down!" He called out, having a outfit in mind already as he reached for his 'sexy jeans' and a nice botton up.

Johnny huffed as he jumped up and down to get the jeans over his body. Stopping as he looked, sure they must have shrunk in the wash or- thays when he looked again.. noticing the thickening of his thighs and admittedly his ass.

He stared for a moment at the jeans before breaking out in a laugh. Grabbing some sweats instead as he headed back down to you with a smirk.

"You Husband weight me Darlin" He said with a almost proud smirk, you raising a brow at this.

"Husband weight?" You question, Watching him slap his plushed hip with a laugh.

"You are fattenin me up like I were ya husband" He said calmly as he plopped next to you, pulling you into his lap.

"I hope that's not a bad thing" You giggle, assuming he enjoyed it.

"It means ya make me happy darling" He said with a laugh before kissing your cheeks and leaned back to enjoy the show, well hidden in his sweatpant pockets a velvet box laid.

König - Taste Tester

Now most would find it cliché that a soldier ended up with a medic- and König would have no issue telling them to mind their own. You had saved his life, and gained his heart in one swoop.

After a rather nasty battle he had been rushed to the nearest Army Hospital were you had been, saving him from the brink of death and respected his boundaries. You two spending hours just talking about books, shows and different foods you had tasted while in the military- Both of you being quite the foodies.

It had been a long time to build trust between each other, however it had been worth it to say the least. After several years of a slow and steady relationship it had become clear you two would be permanent in each other's lives, moving in together and creating a routine for each others wants and needs.

It was a rare moment but both of you were on leave at the same time, having a nice long break from the hard demands of your guys jobs. König was sitting at the dining room table finishing a Lego set, this time being the Van Gogh one, a hobby he had taken up to help him relax and focus.

"Hey Love, How does this taste?" You question and hand him a spoon of something which he eats without question. His eyes lighting up as he nodded- Fried rice, some form of gravy or curry, and nice soft eggs.

"Ja, gut Schatz! (Its food Love), What is it?" He questioned as he hands back the cleaned spoon and you give him another spoonful which he inhails.

"It's Omurice, I found the recipe and wanted to give it a go. I don't know if I got the egg constancy right but I'm more concerned about taste" You shrug truthfully König clearly agreeing as he turned to look if you had anymore- this drawing a laugh from you as you make him a fat plate which he accepts happily.

"Danke" He says quickly before tucking into the large plate, happily chatting away setting his lego project further on the table so it didn't get disturbed. You only pausing the conversation to point to the larger males shirt which had a large stain on it.

"You got sauce on your shirt love" You say with a giggle, the Austrian make looking down and sighing softly. Giving a quick curse as he stood up to change his shirt.

Heading upstairs he took off his shirt and went to grab another when he paused and looked at himself in the mirror-

Now König knew he was a big guy- that was no surprise however he was defiently noticing he was becoming a bigger guy. Mainly his shirts didn't fit the same around his stomach and sides region but he hadnt really noticed till now, Looking himself over he saw a nice thin layer of plush over his whole form.

He blushed at this, realizing he may have been getting way more comforble then he realized. Remembering his mother telling him that once a person finds themselves in a life long relationship they can get bigger due to being comforble.

Had he truly gotten that comforble? He thought back to the days they would spend together, how he found everything that you did to be adorable and you had just become a part of his life. His heart fluttering at the thought as his need for a new shirt was forgotten and be stepped out of the room.

He walked back down, shirtless still in deep thought as he held his stained garmet. You raised a brow at seeing him so out of it and holding the shirt, Stepping forward you gently touch his hand to gently bring him back to you.

"König? Love you okay?" You question as he finally comes back to reality and blinks at you. Like he was seeing you for the first time all over again.

"König?.." You question again but he leans down and instead captures your lips in a deep kiss. A blush forming over both of your cheeks at the suddently passionate kiss, he pulled away after a moment after the need for air won out. After a moment of catching your breaths he stared you in the eyes.

"Let's go to the Juwelier (Jewlery Store) Tommorow Liebling~" He said with a shy smile and hands on your hips, A new sparkle in his eyes.

[idontplaytrack]

An Angel

College!Amber Appleton x fem!reader(platonic)

warnings: fluff, coarse language, mentions/description of depression & anxiety, mentions of losing a parent

In which, Amber Appleton calls reader an angel and causes her to get flustered

Amber was your roommate at Carnegie Mellon, she was shy, but when you needed help with anything, she’d never say no to you. She was now a good friend of yours- one of your closest friends in college. Not to mention, she was practically the perfect roommate: always cleans up after herself, helps keep the place clean even when it was supposedly your turn (your classes seem to be more hectic than hers). And she understood it. You thought it was fair to make it up to her if she took your turn doing chores- usually you’d get her a drink or dessert of some sort, on your way back to campus after visiting family.

When you left the dorm on Friday afternoon, she’d just gotten back from her last class of the day. And she did not look good- she seemed so pale, you were terrified that she’d pass out without anyone around. And despite your protests, she insisted you went home for the weekend to see your family, knowing how much it meant to you. That was Amber for you- always putting others first. You knew about her losing her father to an undiagnosed heart condition, then her mother to a car accident, maybe that was why she was so insistent of you going to see your own family every chance you got. Amber’a told you that to her, family was everything. Until it wasn’t, because she didn’t have anyone anymore. Well, she said she had her friends in high school, but now, everyone lost contact with the exception of two friends. But even then, they barely ever talked.

Anyway, you were now in your car, driving back to the campus- well, the dorm. Your Mom made you some extra soup for Amber after hearing you mention that she was ill. Also, you’d made Amber text you periodically. Because…let’s face it. You were deathly worried about that girl. She doesn’t like asking for help. She fears it, almost. And that absolutely ticks you off. Why was she like that? I mean, you knew why. But still, ugh.

Oh, and her last text?

————

“Amber?” You called out.

“My gosh, why are you back early?”

“Told you I’d see for myself, didn’t I? My family sees enough of me.” You laugh, “My little siblings are asking why I’m always home. I dunno what to tell them.”

She cracked a smile.

“Did you eat?” You asked.

“What? Of course I have been eating.” She sat up.

“Good.” You nodded, “Okay, my Mom gave us extra food and soup - so you’d better eat up later.”

“Alright.” She sighs softly, a chuckle escapes her lips, “Tell your Mom I said thank you.”

“I will.” You assured, putting down the plastic bag containing the Tupperwares. “Did the fever break?”

“Came back this morning.” She mumbled.

“Are you sure this is just a cold?”

“Yes. I’m not throwing up, so it’s not the flu or a stomach bug. Nothing else hurts other than my head.” She listed.

“Okay, okay.” You laughed lightly, throwing her hands up in mock defeat, “I’m gonna take a shower real quick, you…don’t try and do anything to make yourself pass out.”

She laughs heartily, “I’m just gonna be sitting here or walking to the kitchen to refill my water bottle. Promise.”

“Okay, Amber.” You let out another laugh before disappearing into the bathroom with a fresh change of clothes and your towel.

Okay, at least she was fine when you were done with your shower- she’d dozed off while watching some random movie on her laptop. You paused the video, put her laptop on her desk then draped the blanket over her properly. Last thing you did, was to feel her forehead with the back of your hand: she was a little warm, but you figured you could probably let her sweat it out with this nap first instead of waking her up to take a dose of fever reducer. It was really quiet, so you thought she’d actually passed out. Meanwhile, you located your own laptop and resumed working on a paper you’d pressed pause on- you were fresh out of the shower, your mug filled with your favourite coffee, your headphones were on as your favourite songs played through them. It was the perfect scenario for productivity.

After a little over an hour, you decided you were done. Saving the document, you yawned, a little tired. But, you were satisfied you completed the work- though, you still needed to proofread it and make edits after this. Your gaze lands on Amber who was beginning to stir in her sleep. Removing your headphones, you hear the girl let out a groan as she moved around in her slumber. Your ears perked up in concern as you approached her sleeping figure - watching her like a hawk to decide your next move. Within seconds, though, she was awake. You ask if she was okay. “I’m uh, gonna need that fever medicine.”

“As you wish.” You shrugged, walking back to the cabinet above the bathroom sink to retrieve the bottle. You hand it to her as she took a sip of water to hydrate, making her dry throat feel better. “Your head really hurts, doesn’t it?” You questioned knowingly. She admitted it with a nod of her head as she tilted it up to aid the swallowing of the pill. “I was supposed to take another dose anyway - so, right on time. Thanks.”

“I think you’d better eat a little bit, y’know. It’s not good to take that on an empty stomach.” You took out the Tupperwares from its bag, then going to grab a bowl and set of cutlery.

“Okay.” She doesn’t protest, “You should eat some too if you haven’t. It’s been awhile since you first got back.”

“I will,” You flashed her a smile as you filled the bowl with the sopita your Mom cooked.

“Thank you.” She says while stirring the food with her spoon, she watches the pieces float around in the bowl.

“What? What for?”

“For taking care of me. For caring.” Amber purses her lips together, “It’s been pretty hard for me to make friends that even make it out of the lecture halls. Barely anyone ever reaches out to me again, and it’s just something that I’ve gotten used to, I guess. Why are you so nice to me?”

“Of course I am. You’ve been a great friend- always nice to me, happy to help. If you’re nice to me, you’ll know. However of course, if you aren’t, you’ll also know because I’ll tell you like it is.”

“You’re an angel.” She remarked, you nearly choked on your mouthful of noodles and veggies. She watched you, alarmed, then quickly patted your back.

“I’m fine.” You chuckled awkwardly.

“I mean it, though. This is really nice of you. You didn’t have to do that for me.”

“Amber, listen to me. You’re my friend and I care about you, just like you do for me.” You inevitably let a sigh escape.

“I’m just…not used to it, accepting help.” She finally admitted.

“Yeah.”

“I know, I have been going to therapy but I still have a lot of work to do.”

“All progress is progress.” You smiled.

[fe-fictions]

Up for some Alfonse? I saw you wrote that you couldn't find any more in your archive, so I'm here to help! How about he finds Kiran passed out due to exhaustion? I doubt she gets much sleep anyways, what with welcoming all the new heroes, commanding the battlefield, studying tactics, and all that jazz.

(It's been ages since I've done some Alfonse fluff! Enjoy ;; U ;; )

The night was still young, and Alfonse was restless. Everyone had already eaten, and those who had spare time outside of chores, patrols  and meetings, they were making merry and enjoying themselves. 

Everyone seemed to be accounted for, except for arguably the most important individual in Alfonse’s eyes; Kiran.

Sharena didn’t seem to know where you’d gone, nor did Anna. Most of the summoned heroes weren’t certain where you’d gotten off to, until he asked one of the more observant ones.

Klein had seen you heading toward the armory by yourself just a little while ago. You seemed fine, he added when Alfonse looked confused (and obviously worried).

“What on earth does she want in there?” He wondered aloud, making a beeline for the armory. It’s not like you wielded any of the weapons, at least not well enough to use. He’d been teaching you the way of the sword, but there was no way he was going to let you bring that onto the battlefield until he was satisfied with your skills.

Maybe you were reviewing the stock on your own, as diligently as usual. Alfonse’s speculation came to a swift conclusion, though, when he passed through the tent flaps.

You were in the armory, yes; dead asleep and leaning against a polearm from where you sat precariously on a bench.

“Kiran?” His face blanched, the prince quickly coming to your side. Carefully he put his fingers to your neck; your pulse was fine, and you didn’t appear to be in pain. You just looked tired, really. 

His brow furrowed when he realized you had dark bags under your eyes, and lines drawn likely caused by the stress of the job. 

“What have you been doing to yourself?” He muttered while he got to work extricating you from the tent. He expertly pulled the polearm away, leaning you back against the weapons rack behind you so as not to wake you.

The spear quietly clacked back into place, and he returned to your side. It would be better to let you sleep. Alfonse gently raised you into his arms, holding you to his chest and making sure your head was resting against him rather than lolling about. Making sure you weren’t jostled or stirring, he started out of the tent.

It was tactfully ignored when heroes started whispering about what they saw; what was the prince doing with the summoner? Why was she asleep? Were they sweet on each other- and were they really being so blatant about it?

His focus was making sure you got some proper rest for the first time in what appeared to be ages. 

“Please excuse me,” He murmured into your hair, as he brought you back to your tent. The cot was practically untouched; had you even slept in it that morning?

Alfonse didn’t glance around long. He slowly knelt beside the bedroll, settling you onto the blankets. With great care, he cupped your head, making sure not to let you bounce by accident when he moved his arms out from under you. Then came the work on your boots.

Mindful of his own armor and clanking bits, Alfonse was expert in reducing his own noise while he got to work undoing your belts and buckles that surely weren’t comfortable to sleep in. He managed to pull the first one off before he realized his efforts were in vain.

“Alfonse…?”

“Kiran!” He squeaked when you spoke, finding you staring down at him with bleary eyes. Blushing, he pulled back, one boot still on and the other sock exposed. “Forgive me, I just…I found you asleep in the armory and wanted you to be more comfortable in your tent. I brought you back and wanted to at least take some of your armor off while you rested.”

“Thanks.” You rubbed at your eyes, “I didn’t even realize I’d fallen asleep at all…guess I’ve been working harder than usual.”

“You’ve always worked hard,” Alfonse countered, recovering himself so he could continue his efforts. You watched with a lazy smile as he continued to undo your other boot, “I think it’s just the steady flow of hard work finally sapped the last of your strength, and this was the result.”

“You think so?” 

He nodded quietly while he set the footwear neatly to the side, before returning to your side. You reached for his hand and he gladly took it, giving your fingers a gentle squeeze from his seat beside the bedroll. 

“Would you like to spend the night with me, then?”

“Uhh…”

“Just to sleep,” You added in quickly, realizing the blush on his cheeks wasn’t because of a polite invitation. “I mean, it’s not like you don’t work hard, too…I thought it might be a good chance for both of us to get some good sleep.”

“If you don’t mind having me here.” Alfonse said softly, “I’m happy to stay until you fall asleep, if you’d rather I not stay all night.”

“I’d have you here every night if I could.”

The prince’s heart skipped a beat, and enthusiastically agreed to join you to bed. He undid his own armor and belts, left in his tunic, trousers and socks. His headpiece was carefully placed on your desk before he crawled under the blankets with you.

Your arms were open to receive him, and Alfonse was happily wrapped up in a sleepy embrace by his loved one. You nestled your head into his hair, feeling far more relaxed with the handsome, sweet prince snuggled up with you.

“Goodnight, Alfonse…thanks for looking out for me.”

“Always.” He smiled against your skin, a chaste kiss along your collarbone. “Sleep well, Kiran.”

[cutesmokes]

It's a lazy Sunday evening and our favorite mailman/ butterfly expert pair are just enjoying each other's company  like they always did. But tonight is different. Something silly is in the air and it's clear that both of them had caught it. 

Day 3: cuddles

The evening was cloudy, a misty haze turning the sky above a sleepy orange. Every neighbor had their own way of celebrating the small victory of getting through the week. Rather it be a special show or indulging in their favorite hobby but for Frank and Eddie, nothing was better than curling up with a home cooked meal as they talked in their kitchen. Though there were little dishes, they still worked together to get them done. Chores with the people you love always made it more fun anyways. Their bed, which was usually tidy, had become a sort of nest. Pillows sat against the walls, the tangle of blankets created. In the middle is where the couple sat, leaning against each other peacefully. They sat shoulder to shoulder, a blanket wrapped around them as they casually talked about their day. Eventually, however, as the night went on, gentle conversations and chuckles turned to sleepy giggles. Eddie had scooped up his partner by under his arms and held them closer to his chest, nuzzling his forehead into Frank’s. The butterfly expert smiled tenderly, his arms wrapping around his shoulders, hands resting gently against his back while their long fingers traced lazy patterns across the small of his back. Eddie sighed happily, his eyelashes dancing as his eyes fluttered closed. Frank had to just take a moment to admire him. The usual rain cloud never was the type to get all mushy. they were always looking for facts, making sure things were “just so”.  Frank Frankly was, well, frank. But something about Eddie helped them forget about that and lighten up, sometimes at least. A sly smile stretches across their  lips as one of their hands runs down the mailman’s side, their  fingers working against the fabric in light, jittery motions. Soft titters filled the silence as Eddie’s arms squished against his sides. A soft dusting of rose began coloring his cheeks as his eyes opened. His subtle dimples now more pronounced as his lopsided smile grew. 

“Frahahank.. I was sleepin’.” frank only shook their head, continuing the gently skittering over the plush. 

“I don't see what’s stopping you from doing so.” they replied simply, resting their cheek on the man’s head, pressing their face into the soft mass of his strawberry red hair. While Eddie usually kept his hair tidy, it was alway a bit of a shaggy mess during the evening hours. Frank hand always found it cute in some way but has always been a bit too shy to say it aloud. So, they showed it in different ways like tussling it while the poor dear was still half asleep or even helping him brush it out when needed. Frank had never been good with words and always struggled to say their feelings, especially when it was important. There just never seemed like there was a word powerful enough to describe how they felt. Maybe that's why they had been drawn to Eddie. Along with his big heart and gentle southern twang, he always knew what to say. As the butterfly expert became lost in thought, their hand slowly drifted across the mailman’s stomach, causing giddy giggles to slip from his lips. Shyly, Eddie tilted his head, burying his face into the crook of his partner’s neck, causing them to giggle childishly. As a sort of “payback” Frank sank down into the covers, pressing their face against the mailman’s cheek before peppering gentle kisses onto the subtle freckles that dotted his face. The gentle dusting became a stubble bloom as Eddie melted into the affection, practically giggling himself silly as he just pulled his usually prickly companion closer. 

“Ahah- H-Honestly, darlihhihihin- what has gotten into you~?” He asked playfully, not really minding the fact that the tables had turned. Usually, he was the one to initiate the playful mood to either get his beloved away from his books or just to see their smile. It was always special to see his loved ones happy. Especially his Frank. After a moment,the kisses paused, just so that they could answer. 

“Why Eddie, is it so odd for me just to show how much I love you?” They leaned closer, brushing their nose against Eddie's, who only chuckled sheepishly.

“N-No. not one bit… just know- Ah will be gettin you in the mornin’~.”

He teased, his own fingers fluttering up into Frank's neck, practically beaming as the slimmer puppet’s shoulders rose up , a hand cupping against his. 

“Eeheddie! Hum. well. Well. well just have to see, won't we~?” butterflies crawled up Eddie's nerves again as Frank’s wriggling fingers against his belly and tender kisses started up again. Neither were sure when they eventually did fall asleep, all they knew was that they had each other and that would always be more than enough for them.                        

  

ACK first welcome home fic!!! Okay I know this one is a little shorter and I really wanted to stick to a theme. And I have! But I just really needed to write about these two love birds. They honestly have my whole heart- 

[obsessedwithpedritoofc]

Sɪᴄᴋ (Jᴀᴠɪᴇʀ Pᴇñᴀ)

ℙ𝕒𝕚𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘: Javier Peña × Male Reader.

𝕎𝕠𝕣𝕕 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥: 1,1 k.

𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪: You wake up feeling a bit sick, and of course Javier convinced you to stay home and not go to work. When he comes back, he sees you're feeling even worse than you were in the morning. Luckily for you, he is willing to give you his best and take care of you the way you deserve.

𝕎𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤: teeth rotting fluff, established relationship, swearing, spanish (translations at the end of the fic), mentions of being sick obv (thats pretty much it, this is just a fluffy very short drabble), no physical descriptions of reader, no use of Y/N. (lmk if i missed any).

𝔸/ℕ: surpriseee. hey there, im feeling so sick today and i really thought i needed some pedro boi taking care of me. so i wrote a quick something, and since my last peña fic was pretty violent and angsty, here you have him again! this time all sweet and pretty. hope you enjoy it <3

𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓

You had fallen asleep not long ago, your sore throat and aching body being not merciful at all. Laying on your couch, blanket wrapped around you and the heating on, you played whatever movie you found between all your VHSs and tried to close your eyes.

When you woke up that morning, you knew you weren't feeling alright. So did Javier. He was the first to notice —like always— and told you to stay home. And of course you couldn't say no to those brown puppy eyes of his. You spent most of the day doing chores around the house, trying to be productive since you hadn't gone to work, but by the beginning of the afternoon your head started hurting and your body was stiff. After a while of telling yourself it was nothing, you finally sat down and admitted that maybe, just maybe, you had a fever. 

Fuck, you cursed yourself when the thermometer confirmed your fear.

Being sick terrified you. If there was something you hated was laying in bed for an entire day —or longer—, doing nothing and feeling useless. Especially since you started working at the DEA. Knowing there were lives at risk and you were in your couch being able to do absolutely nothing made you feel even worse about it all. But then again, it wasn't in your hand to get better when you were ill like that. 

So you gave up, got yourself a blanket and tried to ignore the growing pain in your muscles.

An hour and a half into the movie, you finally fell asleep on the couch. Your sore throat and the headache gave you a break to rest for a little while, until the sound of keys and the front door opening woke you up.

"Mi amor", Javier kneeled in front of you, his hand testing the temperature on your forehead. "How are you doin'?".

"Hey...", you weakly smiled. "How was work?".

"I made you a question, baby", he frowned, but he wasn't mad —he was looking at you in pure concern.

"I have a fever", you accommodated yourself under the blanket. "But I'm good", you smiled again. "I left some food in the fridge for you".

"Ay, chiquito", he kissed your forehead. "You didn't have to".

"Of course I had to. You were at work getting yours and my shit done, I couldn't stay sat all day and not leave you some food at least".

Javi smiled down at you. He knew he loved you for a reason.

"I would've taken care", he swiped his thumb over your cheekbone. "Did you eat somethin'?".

"Yeah... For lunch".

"Ay, amor. You gotta start worryin' a bit more about you and a bit less about me".

"Nonsense. You would've gotten yourself killed already", you saw how Javier smiled at you comment and you chuckled. Or at least you tried, until you started coughing. "Ugh, fuck...".

Javier leaned down to press a soft kiss to your lips. Your eyes opened wide, but he interrupted you even before you could object.

"I know, amor. But you can't expect me not to kiss you when I'm seeing you like this", he shrugged.

"You're gonna be sick, too!", you frowned.

"What does it matter? We're gonna sleep in the same bed anyway", he got up and walked to the kitchen. "I'll make you dinner".

You pouted, but didn't complain. You knew you couldn't move much anyway. So you just watched as he moved around, cooked your dinner and warmed his own, turning around to check on you from time to time. Then he sat next to you on the couch and played a different movie as you both started eating.

"Shit, I almost forget", he left his already empty plate on the coffee table and walked to where he had left his work things. He went back to you with a small plastic bag. "I got you some pills on my way back. Figured you'd do better with them".

"Ay, Javi", you reached out to kiss his cheek. You did think it wasn't right of you to do so, since you didn't want him to be ill as well, but he was right —you were going to sleep in the same bed anyway. "You're such a sweetheart".

"You make me a sweetheart", he kissed you back. "I'll make you some tea so you can take the pills".

You almost threw your head back.

"When did you become so cute?", you looked up at him as he walked back into the kitchen. You didn't see it, but his chuckle rumbled to where you were, and you couldn't help but imagine him blushing at your words like he always did.

He went back to you with a steaming cup of tea. You nuzzled as close to him as you could and drank it slowly, taking the pills as well, your eyes focused on the movie.

When Javier saw you were too tired to keep your eyes opened for much longer, he turned the TV off and carried you to the bedroom —leaving the dirty dishes in the sink before, of course. He gently set you down onto the mattress as he started taking off his clothes. Then, he got under the covers with you. His arms circled your waist, his body spooning you and pulling you as close as physically possible. You coughed again —involuntarily, of course—, and he stroked your sides in a soft motion.

"¿Te encuentras mejor, mi amor?", he whispered against your neck. 

"Sí", you turned your head to smile at him. "Gracias a tí".

"Yo no hice nada, precioso", he left a small kiss on the back of your neck.

"Tú hiciste todo, Javi", you kissed his chin in return, holding your coughs in. "De todas formas, solo estando contigo ya me siento mucho mejor", you turned around to face him and buried your face in his chest. "Te amo, mi amor", your voice sounded muffled. Javier chuckled.

"Te amo más, chiquito", he hugged you tight. "Descansa, bonito".

"¿Puedes...?", you cleared your throat, feeling your face growing red and warm —and not from the fever. "¿Puedes cantarme para que me duerma?", you mumbled. Javier stroked your back in gentle circles.

"Claro, amor", he smiled against your head.

As soon as he started singing with a soft tone, you closed your eyes and fell asleep, his voice relaxing and lulling you into a deep slumber. You thought, again, of how much you hated being sick —laying down, doing nothing and feeling useless.

Truth be told, you did hate being sick, you were terrified of it. But at the end of the day, if you could have Javier taking care of you like that, it really wasn't that bad.

¿Te encuentras mejor, mi amor? = Are you feeling better, my love?

Sí. Gracias a tí. = Yeah. Thanks to you.

Yo no hice nada, precioso. = I did nothing, baby.

Tú hiciste todo, Javi. De todas formas, solo estando contigo ya me siento mucho mejor. = You did everything, Javi. And anyways, just being with you already makes me feel better.

Te amo (más). = I love you (more).

Descansa, bonito. = Just rest, beautiful.

¿Puedes cantarme para que me duerma? = Can you sing me to sleep?

Claro, amor. = Of course, love.

[beananacake]

Snapshot (Richard Madden x Reader)

Part 5

Summary: Your story time Twitter thread of how your grandparents thought you were dating Richard Madden becomes viral and you get the chance to meet the man himself.

Chapter Summary: An important question is asked.

Word Count: 11.4k words

Warnings: usage of the word fuck and shit (a lot), drinking(?), ANGST, mentions of cheating, implied smut, whirlwind of emotions if im being v honest (pls don't hurt me)

A/N 1: Helloooooo! HERE WE ARE. THE END OF AN ERA. I'll see you in A/N 2 after the story! Again, reviews, comments, suggestions, requests (and reblogs) are welcome and accepted and very much appreciated. ASK ME ANYTHING in my ask box. Not beta'd (we're so used to it not being beta'd anyway) Now, get your tissues and your popcorn and let's crack on! Part 5, everybody!

Bonus Content 1 | Bonus Content 2 | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | One Shot 1 | Part 5 | One Shot 2 | Headcanon 1 | One Shot 3 | Headcanon 2

2 years after

Something was wrong.

Or, at least you thought something was wrong.

You had moved in with Richard 2 years ago when you went home from your parents’ vow renewal and had been staying in his place ever since. He had given you free rein over his space; telling you to do whatever it was you wanted to do to make it homier to you and you wasted no time in filling it with your books and photos of the two of you. You tried to keep it at a minimal since his house was already exceptionally decorated and, to be honest, it was fitting your style. You never thought you’d be back to living in another huge house again after being in your apartment for a while but you did not mind it this time. Richard only had a skeleton staff for maintaining the house if the both of you couldn’t. If you were home, however, you divided the chores. You shared housekeeping duties and kitchen duties. You took it to yourself to do the laundry after he mistakenly put in one of your red shirts with his white button downs and ended up with a load of pink-colored clothing when it was done. But still, you two had moved like a well-oiled machine.

Like an old married couple more like.

And that was where it all began.

It was mentioned once in passing by his best friend Taron during Richard’s surprise birthday a few months ago and you noticed the way Richard had gotten quiet after it. It soured his mood throughout the night and you did your best to lighten it, telling Taron to stop teasing him or he’ll run away from you. Looking back at it, it was the wrong thing to say because since then, he had been more careful around you. He still acted like how he did before but it was more subdued, in a way. In return, you didn’t watch anything relating to proposals or weddings or marriages whenever he was around, in case that made him uncomfortable again.

“Love, I’m home.”

You were sat on the barstool in the kitchen, reading the latest newsletter from your organization on your tablet when you felt arms wrap around your waist and his lips nuzzling your neck. You smiled and reached behind you, grasping at his hair and extending your neck to the side so he can have a kiss on your shoulder.

“Hey, handsome. How did the shoot go today?”

He rested his chin on your shoulder. “Just like any other day. We’re finishing up tomorrow, though.”

You turned in his arms to look at him, smiling. “That’s great. You can finally take a rest. I know a spa where we can go. I heard their back massages are great.”

“Yeah… About that.”

You looked at him. His eyes were everywhere but on yours. You touched his cheek, turning his face to yours.

“Love. If you don’t want to go to a spa and just stay here at home, we can do that. I’ll claim some of my days off so we can do it together.” You smiled softly at him, feeling his growing stubble on the pads of you fingers.

He turned his head sideways to kiss your palm. “It’s not that, love.” He rested his cheek against your hand again. “I’m actually flying back to London for a while.”

“Okay. When are we leaving and how long?”

“Just me this time.”

Oh.

“Oh.” You tried not to sound disappointed but you failed.

“I promise I’ll make it up to you when I get back.” He pulled you closer to him now and kissed you deeply before pulling back. “Okay?”

You only nodded, dazed. “Yeah, okay,” you said weakly. You put your arms around his neck loosely and you just watched him. “Why can’t I come?”

“I might be there for a while. I know you can’t leave your job for months.”

“Months?” You were used to him leaving for months on end to film on location across the world but that was before things got a bit awry between the two of you. And London was where he was originally based before he permanently moved to California to be with you.

He pulled away from you completely now, walking over to the kitchen. “Yeah. I have some stuff to do in London and I don’t think I’ll have it all done in under a month. Do you want to get take out, love? I forgot to tell the housekeeper to get us some groceries before I left this morning.”

You shook your head, getting down from the stool and pulling out the binder of takeout menus from the drawer. “What do you want to eat?”

“How does Chinese food sound to you?”

You gave a half-smile. “You know I love Chinese food. Are we getting the usual?” You flipped on the page for the restaurant menu and took out your phone.

“Please. I’m going to go take a shower. I’ll be back in a bit, love.” He kissed your cheek before leaving you to order the food.

You placed your usual orders and went back to your tablet to continue reading your newsletter. You were absentmindedly scrolling through it before closing the app and headed to your bedroom. Richard was in the shower and you went to the closet to pick out a fresh shirt and pajamas for him and laid it on the bed. You went to your side of the closet, picking out your uniform for tomorrow.

Months. He’d be gone for months. You had asked his assistant for his schedule for the following week and they hadn’t mentioned anything of him going to London. If they did, you would have booked the ticket yourself. All the assistant said was that Richard had a big chunk of time-off until his next project. It was something that didn’t require him to travel out of the country and if it did, you would still be informed because that was what you two had agreed on.

Was he getting tired of me? You thought to yourself as you sorted out your scrub tops. You had basically taken over his life when you moved in. You started small; buying a binder and putting all of the restaurant menus in it so it was easier for you instead of grabbing whatever paper you could find in a drawer to rearranging the cleaning materials under the sink so the frequently used ones were up front and the rarely used ones were at the back. Then you moved to doing and folding the laundry. You’ve developed a system of sorting and keeping clothes that actually made his assistant and his stylist tear up at the sight of it (color-coded, by material, casuals at the front, formal and business ones were kept in another separate closet, et cetera). Then, you told him of how much you loved doing household chores that you had him agree to share it with you, even if it meant only doing it on your days off.

Oh, my god. I overstepped it, you thought with horror. You only wanted to be closer to him, to know him better but you ended up being more than he bargained for and three years in a relationship was definitely enough time for him to realize that you were too much for him.

“Love? What are you doing there on the floor?”

You hadn’t realized you’ve sat on the floor from all of the thoughts rushing through your head. You looked up at him, hands still clutching your scrub top. He was smiling down at you, amused, unknowing of your inner turmoil and the impending sense of a possible break-up you were about to face. Beads of water dripped from his hair trailed down to his hairy chest and you followed it absently.

“Y—your,” you cleared your throat and shook your head, turning away from him. “I picked out your shirt and your pajamas, love. They’re on the bed.”

“You need help standing up, love?”

“No, I’m fine. I’m just picking out my scrubs for tomorrow.” You gave him a wan smile and went back on rearranging your clothes.

“Okay?” He seemed unsure but he didn’t press further.

“Do you want me to help you pack your suitcase?” You asked and cringed. There you were again, taking over his life.

“How about we do it after dinner? You must be tired from work too.”

You only nodded and went back to your task, absentmindedly just unfolding and refolding your clothes. You needed to stop taking over his life. He had a mother, albeit in another continent, and he didn’t need another one here. You were his girlfriend. You had to start acting like it.

When you went down to the kitchen after trying to cool your head, you found Richard setting up your food in the den. He had on your favorite show playing on the TV and the food splayed out on the coffee table. He was pouring juice in another glass when he saw you.

“Thought you were gonna leave me to have dinner by myself.” He joked with his boyish smile.

Leave. You would never leave him unless he left you first.

You gave a tight-lipped smile and sat on the couch, holding close to you the first take out container you got your hands on.

“I’m really sorry I had to go alone, Y/N.” Richard sat beside you and passed you your chopsticks.

“It’s okay,” you mumbled, breaking apart the bamboo utensils. “I understand.”

“I’ll try to call you everyday, though, so you won’t miss me too much.” He kissed your cheek and started eating.

Your thoughts were miserable up until you drove him to the airport the day he was leaving. He had talked to you throughout the drive, telling you that he would be taking you up to that offer of a spa day you had mentioned a day before and another vacation just for the two of you because you had been working so hard. You only replied with hmms and ahhs, telling him you were trying to avoid the traffic, when in fact, you were just trying to avoid the topic.

“Y/N?”

You only looked at Richard when you arrived at the airport. “Yes, love?”

“You’ve been distant for the last couple of days. What’s wrong?” He cupped your cheek, watching you quietly. “I know I didn’t forget our anniversary.”

You touched his hand. “No. Our anniversary was last week. You didn’t forget.”

“Then what’s wrong?”

You chewed the inside of your cheek. “Nothing’s wrong, Richard. I’m just tired from work. They’re training me to do more.”

“You should’ve let me drive if you were tired.” He rubbed his thumb on your cheek. “You’re already doing so much for me.”

Shit. Shit. Even he noticed you were doing more than what was expected of you.

You swallowed and pulled away. “Let’s go? You’ll be late.”

You jumped out of the car and closed the door a little too loudly. You opened the trunk, about the pull out his suitcase when he came and did it for you. You looked at him with a small smile and closed the hatch. You grabbed his carry-on from the backseat.

Richard grabbed your hand in his as he wheeled his suitcase to the entrance. He turned to you and took his carry-on from your shoulder. “Are you going to be okay while I’m away?”

You nodded. “Yeah. I’m used to you being away for months, love. It’s nothing new,” you lied. Even to your ears, it wasn’t convincing.

He only nodded and kissed you deeply in the middle of the busy airport. You wrapped your arms around his neck, going on your tip toes and crushing yourself against him. This kiss felt final to you. It felt too deep and too much. The emotions—your emotions—were on an all-time high since you’ve felt that impending doom of another broken relationship that even this simple kiss felt like he was saying good bye for good.

You pulled away and felt his thumb swipe under your eyes, catching your tears. You hadn’t realized you started crying.

“Y/N, you’re making it so hard for me to leave,” he whispered as he wiped more of your tears.

Then don’t leave. Stay. I promise I’m not going to step over your boundaries or act more than I should, you wanted to shout but you only ended up crying again.

He hugged you to him, holding your head to his chest and rubbed at your back. He shushed at you soothingly, murmuring sweet words while swaying you side to side. You clutched at his shirt and cried it all out, breathing in his familiar scent of musk and sandalwood. When you pulled away, he looked at your face and wiped the tear tracks on your cheeks.

“I’m sorry I ruined your shirt.” You said pathetically. “I packed an extra one in your carry-on in case you needed to change mid-flight. I should’ve packed another.”

“It’s okay, love. It’s just a shirt.” He smiled softly at you and dropped a kiss on your forehead. “You’ll be okay?”

You nodded.

“I’ll give you a call as soon as I land.”

You shook your head. “It’s a long flight. You go take a rest before you call me. I’ll understand.”

He cupped your cheek, turning your face to him and placed a gentle kiss on your lips. “I love you, Y/N.”

“I love you too, Richard. So much.”

You held back your tears as you watched your boyfriend join the throng of people towards the airport. It was only when you got inside the car and had started the engine that you broke down.

…

It had been three weeks since Richard had left and every day you had grown more despondent in his absence. He had been calling you like he promised but you just weren’t up for it. You replied when appropriate and that seemed enough for him. At home, you tried so hard to keep yourself from doing more things that would bother him. You’ve avoided touching his scripts inside his office, hadn’t cleared out his desk of his notes like you did before when you put them in their own folders and stuck on a sticky note of which notes went with which script, and overall just didn’t add more to his house that screamed you. In fact, if someone were outside looking in to your life, they’d think you were slowly erasing traces of yourself in the house you shared with your boyfriend.

“Y/N. Hey.”

You looked up and found Gina sitting beside you in your cubicle. You and her had become best of friends as soon as Candace left the laboratory. It turned out that she had been poisoning Gina’s mind with her jealousy of you for years. It didn’t matter to you anymore, anyway. Candace was long gone; you weren’t going to see her again and Gina had earned her place as your best friend.

“Gina. Do you need something?”

“Let’s have dinner out. You’ve been in a bad mood since Richard left.”

You were ready to say no when Gina shook her head at you. “Nuh-uh. I’m not going to let you wallow alone inside that big house of yours.”

“It’s not even my house,” you countered weakly.

“Y/N, you’ve been in a relationship with Richard for 3 years, had moved in with him for two. I’m pretty sure that house is conjugal property now.”

“Please don’t say that word.” You turned to your microscope again, turning it on and randomly looking at the blood cells on the slide.

“What? House?”

“No. Conjugal.”

“Oh, shit. What’s wrong?”

You bit your lower lip and tried to tune her out. You didn’t want to talk your relationship woes to one of your best friends.

“Y/N, I’ve just released the result for that patient. I know you’re not looking at anything.” Gina said matter-of-factly. “Shit, we’re going to a bar and you’re going to tell me all about it.”

You turned off your microscope and turned to her, eyes brimming with unshed tears. “I think he’s growing tired of me.”

Gina only raised her eyebrow and then raised a finger as if to say hold that thought. She left you for a few minutes before coming back and giving you a cup of water.

“I asked the boss if I could cash in a favor. We’re getting the day off tomorrow.” She passed you the cup. “Don’t worry about your training. It’s all formality. Everyone knows this department’s really for you.”

“Thanks,” you said and drank the water in one gulp.

“I’m going to be shameless in asking for this but we’re going to drink at your and Richard’s place,” she said, throwing emphasis on your boyfriend’s name, “so we can safely talk about what’s going on, okay?”

You nodded. “Okay.”

“I’ll leave you for a bit. I’ll go do some work. I’ll come back when we’re ready to go.” She touched your shoulder. “Trust me when I say this, Y/N, Richard loves you. I’m actually fucking jealous of the both of you.”

You snorted and turned away. “There’s nothing to be jealous of.”

She just sighed and went. The last hour of your shift came and you occupied yourself with your work, going through all of the slides like your life depended on it. You weren’t ready to face the issue with Gina. You were scared that whatever you were feeling would turn out to be right. What if Richard was actually going to leave you? What if he was just setting himself up again in London because he wanted to go back there, far far away from you? What if… you were the only one who loved in this relationship?

You verified the last of the results, packing the important slides away for the hematologist’s viewing and keeping the rest with the others in their specialized cupboard. Gina was a godsend for asking your boss for a day off. You knew you needed one but being alone inside the house felt suffocating. With Gina there, it would be bearable.

“You ready to go?” Gina appeared on your cubicle entrance. “I placed an order for lots of booze so be prepared to get really hammered tonight.”

“I hope you got food too.” You stood from your seat and closed the lights to your workplace and went out.

“I found a nice Korean chicken place. Placed two orders of the bestseller.”

Korean chicken. Not remotely close to Korean barbeque but dear God, was this a sign? Was everything going to come crashing down on you?

You arrived home bringing all of the food and alcoholic drinks one can imagine. There were only the two of you and you had enough food to feed the staff of the house. You told Gina as much, who said you could give the other order of the chicken away and maybe a couple cans of the beer. The staff thanked you and the housekeeper assured you that you didn’t need to clean up after yourselves as she would be staying over to make sure you didn’t hurt yourself while drunk. If that was Richard’s request or just your housekeeper’s own volition, you still smiled and thanked her.

Now in your comfy house clothes—Richard’s old shirt and your flannel shorts—you poured a hearty amount of beer into your glass.

“Whoa. Relax. We have the whole night,” Gina said.

You didn’t mind her and drank the contents of your glass in one fell swoop. You made a face as you belched, a sight that would have had your mother swoon, and refilled your glass once more.

“Y/N.”

You looked at your best friend and sighed. You tried prolonging the talk but nothing got past Gina. And surely, she was worried about you.

“I said drink and talk, not just get drunk. You have to start talking at some point.”

You put your glass down and heaved a long sigh. “Like I said, I think he’s growing tired of me.”

“Now when did that happen?”

“I don’t know but he’s been pretty distant with me for a while. Now that I know when it happened.”

She hummed as she got comfortable in her seat.

��I threw Richard a surprise birthday party a few months back and invited all of his friends who were here. Taron—you know Taron, right? Taron Egerton? Taron was there and he joked about us moving like we’re some old married couple.”

“I don’t see how that’s a bad thing? I thought that’s supposed to be a good thing?” Gina took to the food as she watched you. “Don’t all people in a relationship wish they were like an old married couple?”

You shrugged and played with the hem of your shirt. “I guess? But it dampened his mood. Taron teased him throughout the night about it and I felt bad because it was his birthday and I invited Taron so I told him to stop teasing or Richard would run away from me as a joke. I guess he took it to heart.”

“Y/N…”

“I asked his assistant about his schedule so I can get us a spa day. He’s been working too hard and I just want to do something nice for him. Gina, he didn’t have anything at all for months on end. He just decided he wanted to go to London without me.”

“You know he can do that, right?”

Now that she put it that way, you felt stupid. Of course, he could. He wasn’t an extension of you in the first place; he was his own person.

“But I get where you’re coming from, Y/N.”

“You do?” you asked in a small voice.

“Yeah. I always overhear you two tell each other about where you’re going and who you’re going with. If I’m being honest, at first I thought it was him or you being controlling of each other but I realized that was how you two were. You always checked up on each other from time to time, him especially since you know he’s only shooting a movie or a show.”

You nodded. Gina may have been a new best friend but she understood you.

“So that’s the only reason why you think he’s grown tired of you?”

You took a bite of your chicken. “I think I also overstepped his boundaries.”

“You need to elaborate on that, Y/N. I’m no mind reader.”

“I’ve been too comfortable staying here. I’ve imposed on rules and made changes and did some things and he just said yes to everything. I didn’t even ask, Gina. I just did. I’m not even sure if he wanted those changes done.”

You watched your friend drink her alcohol. “He let you, didn’t he?” You nodded. “I think that’s him saying yes.”

“I took over his life.” You plopped down on the length of the sofa and looked up at the ceiling. “I took over his life the moment I met him.”

“Y/N, honey, I love you and I’m saying this from the bottom of my heart but I think you’re overthinking things.”

“Gina, have you seen my tweets?” You sat up and looked at her. “Have you seen the shit I wrote there? It was all just fun before and now, looking back at all of it, I forced myself to be in a relationship with him.”

You brought out your phone and opened the app, showing her the tweet you posted. “I literally, basically, forcefully put it out to the world that I wanted to be Richard’s girlfriend.”

Gina read your tweet and looked at you wryly. “Did you intend for this to happen?”

“No but—”

“Did you expect Richard’s publicist to call you?”

“No—”

“Were you just having fun when you posted this?”

“Yes but—”

“Y/N, no buts. Stop it. This is not you forcing your way to be Richard’s girlfriend. He said he likes you, right? He said I love you to you and you said I love you to him. He asked you to be his girlfriend, you said yes. End of discussion.”

“Gina—”

Your best friend huffed. She poured beer into your glass and passed it to you. “Let’s get drunk, Y/N. The more you talk, the more you overthink.”

You took the drink from her and downed it. You liked Gina’s idea more than you cared to admit.

…

The incessant ringing of your phone bounced inside your head like multiple tingling bells. Dissonant chimes, not even the melodious ones. Like a police siren. An ambulance. A barbershop bell that signaled a new customer. A Santa Claus impersonator incessantly ringing his obnoxiously loud bell for charity. A fucking fire alarm. All of that in one ring tone from your phone. Sweet Jesus.

You were sprawled on the couch, lying on your stomach with your head mashed against the arm and your left foot dangling on the edge. You remembered putting your phone on the coffee table and reached for it blindly, toppling cans and wine corks and vodka bottle caps. You had never been this drunk before in your life—okay, maybe once, when you were still a university student when your thesis got approved after working on it for so long—and every little thing that made a sound echoed in your head hundred-fold.

You took your phone, not bothering to see who was calling and pressed answer.

“Mmm—what?” you mumbled as much as you could without moving your head.

“Y/N? I’m sorry I wasn’t able to call you last night. I was out—”

“Shhhhh! Stop talking!” You thought that was what you sounded because Richard only let out a confused “Huh?”

“Are you drunk? Where are you?”

“Stop talking!” You slurred. “Shut up. Shut up. Shut uuuuuup.”

“What’s wrong, love? Why are you drunk? You didn’t pass the evalu—”

“Shh!” You opened your eye and looked at the time, groaning. “It’s so fucking early, Richard. Let me be.”

“Call the housekeeper, okay? And don’t drive to work drunk or hungover.”

“Not working today.” You pressed your face on the arm of the couch. “Bye-bye.”

“Love—”

You pressed end on the call and stuffed it under the foam, snuggling yourself further on the couch and sleeping. When you woke up hours later, Gina was sitting up on the loveseat, her eyes bleary. The banging inside your head was almost gone, a couple tablets of aspirin should make it completely go away.

“Where the fuck are we?” Gina asked as she rubbed on her eyes.

You blinked once, twice, before looking around. Your mess from the previous night had been cleared away and before you two, on the coffee table, were glasses of water and a bottle of aspirin. You silently thanked the housekeeper and popped on two pills, gulping down the water. You looked at the clock, noting the time.

“We’re at home,” you said as you closed your eyes again. “And I think it should be lunch time.”

“You know, Y/N, I never really pegged you for someone to likely get drunk from a broken heart or something.”

You slid down on the couch again, throwing your arm across your eyes. “I never drank like this when I broke up with Jason and I was with him for close to five years.”

She snorted. You heard rustling from her side and peeked from your arm.

“Did you love him at all?”

You heard the fridge open and you sat up, hooking your arm on the back of the couch. “Who, Jason?”

“Yeah.”

“What are you looking for in the fridge?” you asked instead, standing up.

“Leftovers?”

“Bottom right, beside the canned drinks.” You stretched and shook your hands, trying to get some sensation back in them. “I… think I did. I probably did or else we wouldn’t have lasted five years.”

“Do you even have leftovers in this house?”

“Shit. I think I ate it yesterday for lunch. Scoot. I’m going to cook.”

“Let me cook and you tell me about Jason what’s-his-face and why you didn’t cry over him or even get drunk.”

You relented, too tired and hungover to argue and sat on the barstool. “I guess I did love him as much as I could in that relationship.”

“But?”

“But I saw the signs that the relationship was coming to an end.”

“Y/N, Red Bull gives us wings, not the ability to read someone’s fucking mind. You have to be clearer than that, honey.”

You pouted. “He had been spending less time with me. He’s always got some excuse to do something else, especially if our anniversary’s approaching. And I’ve been so trusting of him about it that I didn’t even mind it if he went home late at night or if his collar had some lipstick smudge or something—which, he told me in his defense, was because a female friend of his had been crying and he was there to comfort her and she smudged her fucking lipstick on his collar.” Fucking Jason.

“That’s a weak argument. Stupid one too.”

“In this picture, I’m the stupid one. I let it go.” You took a deep breath. “He was naturally friendly with people. He could talk someone down and make them trust him in a span of less than an hour. That was what drew me to him. Did I mention we met at a bar?”

“Bars are, like, one of the worst places to meet someone to date. Personally, I have nothing against people meeting in bars. I heard people get married, but that statistic is pretty low, like around 8 to 10 per cent, and they’ve probably had too much to drink to think straight or something. And I don’t think I’ve seen you this hammered before so I guess you were pretty sane when you met him.”

“As you can see, we didn’t get married.”

“Ergo, my point. Got any bacon?”

“Inside the fridge.” You rubbed a hand down your face. “So yeah, we met at a bar and we fell in love. Or I fell in love.”

“You never asked him?” Gina cut open a pack of bacon and placed it on the skillet. “Or has he said it any time in the five years you were together?”

“He’s said it a lot during the first year we were together. It got less since then.”

“How did you two get official? Did he just say ‘hey, you’re my girlfriend now?’ or anything like that?”

You bit your lower lip, thinking hard. Come to think of it, none of you asked. It just came to be. Jason and you just one day decided that you two were boyfriend and girlfriend and that was it.

“We just agreed on it. We were spending so much time together that we just said ‘fuck it, we’re boyfriend and girlfriend.’”

“And were you guys exclusive?”

“I know we were.”

“Except for that time he went home with smudged lipstick on his collar?”

You chewed on your lower lip. “You know, G, you can just call me stupid. I’ve pretty much accepted that part of me now.”

“Stop being melodramatic. I only asked because I want to compare Jason with Richard. From the looks of things, Jason’s too unstable, too outgoing and too—too much for you.”

“Gina…” You weren’t ready to talk about your ex-boyfriend so early after waking up.

“Hey, zip it. I’m having a best-friend-giving-advice-in-a-rom-com moment.” You watched as she flipped the bacon. “Now, tell me why you didn’t cry over him when you two broke up.”

“I don’t know.”

“Y/N, I’m literally so close to smacking you with a spatula.”

You took a deep breath and shut your eyes tight. “I fell out of love with him, okay? I didn’t feel like I was getting enough attention and that everything I did was becoming a burden to him. He made me feel like I was asking for too much even if all I wanted was for him be there for me when I needed him. That even the simple act of me trying to take care of him was too suffocating for him.”

You opened your eyes and found Gina looking at you piteously. “Y/N…”

“He forgot my birthday twice and always made excuses to skip out on our anniversary three times. When I broke down because I was too anxious for my job interview, he just told me to suck it up. He never comforted me as the years went by and I just… I thought I was overreacting most of the time. That maybe I should suck it up and be stronger than what I was showing him.” You sighed and shrugged helplessly. “I became stronger but I also became independent and I just slowly… fell out of love with him. I was too strong to cry over someone who cheated on me with my ex-best friend. It didn’t mean it didn’t hurt any less. I was with him for five fucking years.”

“You know, if we met before Candace the snake told me lies about you, we would literally be the best of friends from the get-go.”

You gave a small smile. “Yeah, I know.”

“Now, don’t hate me, but I’m going to ask you questions about Richard. After all, that’s what we’re here for.”

You took a deep breath, straightened your back and nodded. Gina’s questions were basically the same as what she had asked you about Jason. You answered her truthfully, giving her knowledge of your relationship no one even knew about. You’ve told her about how he had defended you to your judgmental family and how he was instrumental in bringing all of you together. He had been your anchor when you sometimes felt you were floating away from your emotions and your problems. Richard, as you told her, was your other half in every way that mattered, and more.

“Richard supports you, cheers you on, takes time to talk to you despite his very busy schedule, never forgets an important milestone for you or the both of you and only laughs at the face of adversity because he knows you both could get through it together?”

You nodded, eating your breakfast.

“And you’re worried he’s falling out of love with you because you’ve overstepped your boundaries and,” Gina made air quotation marks. “‘Took over his life’ when in fact he’s never said anything like that at all in the three years you had both been together?”

“Wow, G, way to rub it in,” you tried sarcastically.

“Hey, I’m just repeating the things you’ve told me.” She took a bite on her bread. “So, what are you worried about? Richard’s so fucking in love with you and you with him that it makes me physically sick. And I mean that in the nicest way possible, Y/N.”

You took a bacon and nibbled on it, thinking. Maybe Gina was right. Maybe you were reading into things too much. Richard said he loved you and you said you loved him. That was it. No ifs, ands, or buts. You were just overwhelmed that your boyfriend decided to take a bit of a break to cool of his head after a very intense shoot. That was it, nothing more. Right?

“Fuck! Shit!”

You turned to Gina, who you found was looking at her phone.

“What’s wrong?”

She looked at you, alarmed before she schooled her features. “Nothing!” she trilled and cleared her throat. “N-Nothing. They changed our schedule for next week and—”

“Really? Let me see.” You grabbed her phone and stopped when you saw what was on her screen.

“Y/N—”

Trouble in paradise? Marvel leading man Richard Madden seen cozying up with former co-star Lily James. Stateside sweetheart out of the picture!

There were more pictures of them in restaurants and shops and they were both happy, smiling and laughing. You had seen that look on Richard’s face before; it was whenever you two were having fun. And very much in love, your traitorous thoughts said to yourself.

‘Richard Madden and Lily James look every bit the happy couple as the twosome exited from a romantic restaurant in London. The pair were also seen shopping in Selfridges a few days back with James holding on to a little baggie from a known jewelry store…’

You read through the article, trying to relax your breathing. You knew Lily James, had met her a couple of times before and you absolutely adored her—and also was jealous of her. There was no denying their chemistry. They were casted perfectly in Cinderella and in Romeo and Juliet and had remained close friends since. She was beautiful and smart and kind. Richard was handsome and smart and kind. And they had more similarities together than you do with your boyfriend.

You gave Gina her phone back and scrambled from your seat to the couch, inserting your hand between the foam and the frame and digging out your phone. No missed calls. No texts. Nothing. Your hands shook as you opened your call log.

“Gina?”

“Yes, Y/N?”

“C-can you please tell me what time that article was posted?” You swallowed as your thumb hovered over Richard’s name.

Gina told you the time and a lone tear fell on the screen and onto Richard’s name. The article came out before Richard’s call. He hadn’t texted or called or left anything for you at all, save for that one phone call and it was too close to the time of posting the article.

“Gina?” you said weakly.

“Yeah?”

“I think I’m gonna be sick,” you said as you threw your guts up on the floor.

...

You decided to call in sick the next day, blaming it on a stomach bug but in truth you were too emotionally exhausted because of what you’ve seen. You and Gina agreed that staying in Richard’s house was too much for you that she offered to drive you to your apartment. You managed to call your sister and she was ready to go the moment she heard you sob. She wasn’t there when you broke up with Jason, she had said, but she would be there for you now that you were having trouble with Richard.

When you opened the door and found your sister on the other side, you erupted into tears. She squeezed you tight, letting herself in your apartment and you both landed in a heap in front of your door. You cried hard that night, letting out the ugliest of wails while your sister held you close to her and soothed you. You knew she hurt just by hearing you cry but you couldn’t help the gut-wrenching sobs that came out from you.

This was it, you thought to yourself. This was the end of your relationship with the love of your life.

“Y/N? You need to eat something.” Y/S/N’s voice sounded from your kitchen.

Your tears had run dry and you felt like a hollow shell.

“Do you want a salad? Or maybe a chicken sandwich?” Your sister’s voice got closer to your ear now. “Y/N, you just can’t keep crying like this. You need to eat something too. Please.”

You looked at your sister, eyes void of any emotion. “I’ll have a chicken Caesar salad. There’s a binder of restaurant menus on top of the fridge.”

She kissed the side of your head before going back to the kitchen. You pulled the blanket closer to your body, sinking in the warmth of the fleece. You’re stronger than this, Y/N. You’ve felt this way with Jason before. Richard shouldn’t be any different. Sure, he’s the love of your life but are you willing to let yourself go because of a tabloid article? And a tabloid article? Really? You’re smart, sensible, and resourceful. Don’t let this eat you, you said to yourself.

Something rang on the coffee table and you looked over to find your phone flashing your boyfriend’s name and a request for a video call. You had half a mind to ignore it and let him text you whatever it was he wanted to say but you were a glutton for punishment and took your phone. You wiped your tears and cleared your throat before hitting the green button.

Richard’s face came into view, a smiling, happy version of him.

“Hello, love!” When he saw your face, his immediately fell and worry took over his features. “Love, have you been crying? What’s wrong?”

“A sad—A sad movie,” you rasped. “I watched a sad movie today.” You lied.

“Are you in bed? Where are you?”

“I’m at home.”

“Our place?”

Your throat closed at the mention of his house and calling it yours as well. You shook your head and wiped the tears before they fell. “I went back to my apartment. It was getting too lonely in that big house of yours.”

“I’m sorry, love. I’m coming back soon. I don’t think they need me here for more than a month anyway so—”

“Richard? Why don’t you try this on?” Lily came into view, holding a white button-down shirt to him. When she saw your face, she beamed and waved. “Y/N! How are you! Have you been crying?”

You gave a small wave as your heart clenched. Here was Lily, perfect beautiful Lily, with your boyfriend. You had no chance against her.

“She saw a sad movie,” Richard explained.

“Don’t forget to drink water so you don’t get too dehydrated from crying too much,” Lily smiled at you and passed the shirt to Richard. “If that doesn’t fit, I can go find you another one.”

“I’ll try it later, thanks.” He turned to you and smiled. “We’ll go back to the house when I’m back, okay? You won’t feel alone with me.”

You nodded and wiped your tears again. You couldn’t do this. He was promising to be with you when he was with her and it was like being with Jason and his lipstick-smudged collar all over again.

“What happened in the evaluation? Did they give you the department?” he asked sincerely.

You took a sharp breath before answering. “I didn’t go to work today. I caught the stomach bug.”

“Did you already take something for it?”

“Y-yes.” There were more tears now and you rubbed your eyes raw. “I’m sorry.”

“Love.”

“I think I hear the laundry. I have to go.” Lying came to you easily.

“Okay. I’ll see you very soon, love. I love you—”

You cut the call and threw your phone away, sinking into another episode of tears and self-pity. You missed him too much that you wanted to shout and lash out at him but you love him too much that you didn’t want to hurt him. You were being stupid again.

“Why did you do that, Y/N?” Your sister asked as she smoothed your hair.

“Because I love him, Y/S/N, and I miss him and not talking to him hurts but talking to him hurts,” you cried. “I don’t know why I want to punish myself instead of punishing him.”

You didn’t know what happened next after that but you remembered waking up and getting ready for your work. There was no point in wallowing in pity, no sense in reliving the article and his video call. You were able to be strong and independent with Jason. If you did it once, you could do it again.

Y/S/N stayed with you for a couple more days before she had to leave. She was loathe to go but you understood why since she was taking over your family’s company and she couldn’t do any of her work in a place that was three hours behind from their time in New York. She promised to check up on you and would be telling your parents to do the same since they had more free time on their hands now.

Whenever Richard called, you always made excuses about being tired from work or needing to accomplish something for evaluation or whatever it was that sounded valid. He never questioned any of it, he was only confused for most part but he always ended your calls with I love you’s and I miss you’s and I’m coming back home’s. You tried not to say those words to him, fearing you’d be too attached to him again when you’ve done so good at detaching yourself .

When he comes back, I’ll ask him if he wants to break up with me, you thought to yourself determinedly. What was it again, that idiom about ripping a bandage quickly so you won’t hurt yourself? Whatever it was, that was what you were going to do.

The last day of your work week was uneventful once again; Gina providing you with a bit of distraction from the new movie she found that she wanted you to see. She never mentioned Richard or Jason or anything pertaining to that day ever again, which made you very thankful of her. All she did was tease you of your position of being her senior at work now but it was all to make you feel better , and frankly, the first sense of normalcy you had in the last weeks. Your emotions were tired. You were spent from crying. You were ready to take on the world again.

“Please say yes. I swear it’s harmless. Nothing scary. Just pure adrenaline-pumping joy.” Gina said as you both exited the building of the laboratory.

“She’s going to take some time getting used to the adrenaline rush, Gina,” an amused voice said behind you.

The hair on your nape stood and you both stopped, turning slowly to look at the handsome face of your boyfriend—of Richard!—before you.

He was smiling down at you, obvious adoration and love on his face.

“Hello, love,” he smiled as he gathered you in his arms in a bone-crushing hug. “I missed you so much.”

You only mewled, overwhelmed at seeing him so unexpectedly. He didn’t give a day or a time when he was going to be home and the thought of him back in the same continent as you, in the same space, was enough to have you crying again.

Richard pulled back, wiping your tears before hugging you close again. “Oh, love, I’m sorry I was away for a while. It’s never going to happen again, I promise.”

You clutched at his shirt because there was nothing else you could do. You had backed out on your promise to ask him if he still wanted you because you were so scared of his answer.

You felt him drop kisses on the top of your head and his hands rub at your back. This man, the love of your life, he knew everything it was that you needed. Right now, even if all of your emotions were in turmoil, you needed to him close to you.

“Y/N, do you still want me to drive you home?” You heard Gina ask from beside you.

“Her car’s not working again?” Richard asked.

“It works but she’s been staying in her apartment for a while now.”

“I heard she got lonely staying in our place.” He squeezed you again. “I’ll drive her home, Gina. Thank you for driving her to and from work.”

You turned your head to the side, looking at Gina and giving her a weak nod. “I’ll be okay. I’ll talk to you tomorrow, G.”

She reached out to squeeze your arm. “I’ll text you tonight, just to check up on you.”

You nodded and buried your face on Richard’s chest again. You still felt his arms around you; he never let go since he started hugging you.

“Are you still sick with the stomach bug? Maybe you should have that checked out, love.”

“No,” you murmured against his shirt. “I’m okay now.”

You stayed there for a while, not minding the looks people were giving you. Richard was back, he had you in his arms and from the looks of things, he did not want to let go.

“Do you want to drop by your apartment before we head home?” he asked.

Home. Was home with Richard? Or was it in your little apartment, all by yourself?

“You might have some clothes you would want to bring back. If not, we can do it tomorrow morning.”

“I don’t have work until Monday,” you said and pulled away from him. You wiped your tears, looking everywhere but at him.

“Okay. We’ll do it tomorrow, then.” He took your chin in his fingers and tipped your face up, smiling softly at you. “Hi, there.”

“H-Hi.” You whispered.

“I love you.”

You only nodded before pulling away. “Let’s go? You must be tired from your flight.”

He took your hand in his and kissed your fingers. “Let’s go home, love.”

You were quiet during the ride back to his place, just listening to him talk about how his parents and his nieces and nephews were. He did mention Lily in passing, nothing too much about her and he didn’t address the tabloid article. In return, he had asked about what you had been up to. He told you he was proud of you when you relayed you got the job as department head and had insisted you two head out for dinner. You declined, telling him you were too tired from your new workload and you both agreed to just get delivery food so you both could rest.

The moment you both arrived, he wasted no time in kissing you. You did the same, realizing how much your desire for him was bubbling underneath your depression and pain and you let it through. You never reached the bedroom, having had undressed in one of the rooms of the house before you both became a mess of limbs before proceeding to posses each other with reckless abandon.

You laid on his chest hours later, twirling the hair on his chest with your fingers as you savored this feeling with him. The whiplash it gave you of the contradiction of his attitude before he left versus now that he was back. Gone was the reserved, subdued version of your boyfriend and who you had in bed was the same Richard you had fallen in love with.

“I’ve been worried about you, Y/N.” Richard said as he lazily drew patterns on your back. “You think I didn’t notice the way you would just end my calls?”

You were guilty of that.

“You’ve been crying a lot too. I know you have.” He ran a finger down the length of your spine. “You also have this haunted look on your face.”

You looked up at him.

“All I’m saying is, if there’s a problem, we’ll get through it together. If it’s a me or a you or an us problem, it won’t matter. As long as we have each other and we face it together.”

You looked away again, rubbing your cheek against his chest.

“Whatever it is that’s on your mind, you can tell me when you’re ready. I’ll wait for as long as you want me to.”

You closed your eyes and let a tear fall. “Richard…”

You knew it was your chance to ask your question but you just couldn’t. Not like this, not when he was so happy to have you back in his arms and you were spent from making love with him. You’re a coward, Y/N, your shoulder-devil told you.

No, I’m being brave and strong, you countered yourself. This is me savoring this time with Richard and making up for lost time and erasing all of those tears.

Then ask him soon or you’ll end up the loser again, the shoulder-devil said before you willed it away.

“Let’s go out tomorrow,” he said after a while. “To celebrate.”

“What do we need to celebrate?” You snuggled closer to him.

“You’ve become department head. Isn’t that enough to celebrate?” He kissed your forehead. “I’m so proud of you, love.”

You gave him a small smile and planted a soft kiss on his pec. “Thank you. I’ll let you have a pick of the place then.”

He hugged you closer to him.

…

“So? What happened? And don’t skimp out on details, Y/N.” Gina asked once you were able to call her.

Richard had left for the day; telling you he had to meet up with Dana and his assistant who just flew in today. He promised he would be back before your celebratory dinner and also had told you to dress in your best and nicest (“not that you’re not always beautiful, love, but why won’t we make tonight extra special?” he had said before he went out the door). You’ve spent most part of the day hyping yourself up for your confrontation, trying to map out how you’d ask him over the course of dinner. You couldn’t just blurt it out within earshot of other people and you wouldn’t even do it over dessert when you were high on sugar.

“I didn’t ask him anything, G,” you said as you went to the formal side of the walk-in closet. Your best and your nicest dress that you had in the closet was one your mother had given you last year for Christmas.

“Why not? Isn’t now the perfect time for that?”

“I know but he just looked so happy and—”

“And you look so miserable. Y/N, you can’t just keep this in. You have to ask him what’s going on between the two of you now.”

You picked out a garment bag, unzipping it and pulling out a beautiful silver fringe dress. The style reminded you of the Roaring 20’s save for the longer sleeves and much less fringe. There were art deco patterns in shimmering thread embroidered all over the sheer overlay of the bodice and on the sleeves and the only fringe elements were on the lower hem, which stopped just above your knees. It was the best that you had for the moment and somehow, it just spoke to you that this was the dress you were supposed to wear.

“I will, I promise. Can I call you on video? I need help in choosing a dress.” You put your phone down and pressed on the video option.

Gina appeared on your screen and the look of shock on her face when you showed the dress was almost hilarious. “That’s dress number one?”

“Yes.”

“That’s it. Don’t pick out another dress.”

You raised a brow and put the dress aside. “Okay…?”

“A nice pair of silver strap heels and maybe a small clutch should complete the look.”

You went around the closet, picking out options and showing your best friend. “You know, you could have a future as a stylist.”

“I have a future as your therapist, Y/N.” she kidded. “That dress just screams ‘revenge’ and I don’t even know why.”

You placed the heels and the clutch near the dress and looked at it. “I’m not out to get revenge on him, G.”

“I know, I know, but you get what I mean? It’s very bling-y, very sexy. It shows the right amount of skin.”

You smiled at her. You brought your phone over to the vanity and set it aside as you reached for your makeup.

“G, I’m scared.”

“That’s valid. This is an important question.”

“What if I don’t want the answer?” You looked at your friend desolately, picking up at your makeup and starting. “What if I read into everything right and he’s just taking me out to dinner to lessen the blow of the break up?”

“The thing is, Y/N, if you don’t ask, you’ll never know. And if you do ask and you do know, you’ll end up with two things: A, a break up, or B, a happy ever after.”

“I know that,” you said petulantly. “But…”

“But what? You brought yourself up after Jason, right? You’ve became stronger and more independent. If you did that once, you can do it again, but only if you two did end up breaking up with each other.”

You did your makeup, leaving the topic to the back of your mind. You were set on asking him tonight. There was no need in prolonging the pain anyway. Gina kept your thoughts occupied, telling you of the thrill ride she and her boyfriend got to doing last night and how much you would have loved the zip line but not the bungee jump. She kept you company as you finished getting ready for your date.

You settled for a simple makeup with waterproof mascara, which you knew would definitely come in handy for the possibility of tears, and kept your hair in a low bun on your nape. You donned on the dress, shimmying this way and that as you watched the crystals work and the silver thread reflect the light. Gina was right; this dress was revenge ready and even if you weren’t up for revenge, you still needed the armor to protect you.

“Holy shit. You’re gorgeous, honey.” Gina gushed as she saw you in your completed garb. “I could weep and I don’t know why.”

You smiled at your friend gratefully. You heard the door to the bedroom open and Richard’s familiar footfalls as he stepped inside the walk-in closet.

“Oh, wow,” was what he said as he beheld you. He looked stunned and surprised and reverent, even. “I—I—wow.”

“Mr. Madden, are you at loss for words?” you teased gently, ending your call with Gina.

He only nodded as he took your hand and spun you gently. “Y/N, love, I wish I could just ravish you.”

You blushed deeply, stepping away. “I spent a lot of time preparing this, Richard.”

“Right,” he cleared his throat and adjusted his pants. “Of course. I did promise you dinner, didn’t I?”

You nodded. “Yes, you did.” You took a deep breath and tried to bring back the teasing lilt to your voice. “Don’t make me wait.”

And he didn’t. You only waited for less than half an hour before Richard came down from your bedroom wearing his most dashing suit and a bowtie and looking every bit like a dream. You both took his Jaguar and you just watched him as he drove to the place, memorizing his face and thinking of how you were so happy in the past years. You were both silent during the drive. You were a nervous wreck, just fidgeting with your hands and tapping your fingers on your clutch as you neared the restaurant.

The valet opened your door for you and you stepped out. Richard nodded at the valet and took your hand as you both descended to the restaurant. You and him had days where you went in expensive restaurants just for the heck of going on an “actual” date. You two were casual people; always opting to get food from small businesses or getting delivery and just eating them at the comforts of your home. You didn’t want the hassle of having people come up to your boyfriend to ask for a photo or have your meals interrupted by squealing.

The place Richard chose, though, was by far the classiest you two had ever gone on. It was at the rooftop of the hotel and it boasted the wonderful view of Los Angeles from the floor to window ceilings. It had a tropical and nautical vibe to it, with trees in planters and thatched roofing and furnishing in navy blue and red motif. It was refreshing to the eyes. You and him did feel a bit overdressed but it didn’t matter because the other customers of the place were dressed the same way.

In fact, if you weren’t distracted by your thoughts, you were pretty sure one of the guests looked suspiciously a lot like your sister.

Dinner went by swimmingly. You had no appetite to eat even though the fillet mignon was cooked magnificently and to your liking. You only managed to finish half of the already small serving before deciding you wanted to eat dessert instead. You shared a brownie ala mode with your boyfriend, fighting with his spoon to get the best part of the brownie with the last bit of melted ice cream. You didn’t want to admit to yourself how much you missed having him around to tease.

“Y/N, why don’t we have a drink?” Richard said as he stood, going over to you and pulling your seat back.

You stood with leaden legs, realizing that this was it. The end of the most beautiful night of my life.

He waved over to a waiter and the said man appeared a few minutes later, bearing a tray with champagne coupes. You took one for yourself, sipping on it nervously and made your way to the glass window. Los Angeles sparkled underneath your feet and your dress caught the lights, reflecting it back.

“There’s something I want to ask you.”

“There’s something I want to ask you.”

You both looked at each other, confused.

“You first.”

“You first.”

You turned away, downing the contents of the champagne coupe and scrunching your eyes shut. This was it. Now or never.

Just go and ask, Y/N.

“Are you breaking up with me?

At the same time—

“Will you marry me?”

You stopped. Did you hear him right? Did he just… propose?

You turned to your boyfriend, who was on one knee with a closed velvet box in his hands looking at you very confusedly and very offended.

“What?”

“What?”

This was getting ridiculous. Richard stood and dusted his knee, placing the ring box on one of the tables.

“Richard, what did you say?” you asked in a small voice.

“You think I’m breaking up with you?” There was disbelief coloring his voice.

“You’ve been acting distant for a while now! How was I supposed to know you were planning something else other than breaking up with me?”

“No one plans a proposal out loud!” he screamed incredulously. “I love you so much, Y/N, but I can’t risk you knowing about me proposing so I planned it in London!”

“Well, what about the tabloid article of you and Lily getting together?” He was about to answer when you cut him off. “And don’t tell me that’s an old photo because you were wearing one of the shirts I bought you.”

He sighed and turned to the unlit crowd of people. “Lily,” he called out. “If you don’t mind?”

At the left of the crowd, an unmistakable brunette stood and gave you both a small wave. “Hi, Y/N.”

You turned to the person and your mouth fell. “W-what…?” Was that… Lily James? In this restaurant?

“I asked for Lily’s help when I was in London. She had a friend who customized engagement rings. She’s been a great help to me in getting the ring I wanted to give you.”

“But the tabloid—”

“I already asked Dana to tell that website to pull that article down. It took them a while, I think, but they weren’t quick enough because you’ve seen it.”

“Taron…?”

“Taron?” he quirked a brow.

You nodded. “Taron. During your birthday. He joked about us being an old married couple and you’ve changed since then.”

Richard cursed softly. It was comical if it weren’t for the circumstances. “Taron, mate, show yourself.”

Taron Egerton stood a few tables from where Lily was sat. He gave you a cheeky grin. “Hello, Y/N. You look beautiful tonight.”

You bit your lower lip and looked at Richard, who was now watching you.

“Taron knew about my plan to propose. I guess he couldn’t keep his mouth shut that night. I was pissed at him, not at what he said.”

Oh, my god, Y/N. You are such a boob.

“So, all this time…” You watched your boyfriend nod.

“All this time I was arranging everything so I can propose to you. I had to go to London for a month because we were planning everything from there; from your ring to the people coming over to this very night.”

You swallowed the lump on your throat.

“I would never break up with you, Y/N. I’m never going to leave you unless you leave me first. In fact, it’s never crossed my mind to leave you at all. I want all in. All the good and the bad and the ugly with you. I’m sorry I made you doubt me for so long but you just have to understand that I would like nothing more than to surprise and repay you for everything you gave to me since you came into my life.

“I didn’t know what I wanted with my life before I met you. I jumped from one project to another, thinking it would keep me occupied and make me not think about how lonely I really was. But then you came, or at least, your Twitter thread became viral and you were fun and lovely and I knew… Deep in my heart I knew I had to meet you. And when I did, everything just suddenly made sense.

“I wanted someone I could share my life with, someone who was as excited as I am for the next adventure and I found it in you. You’re different compared to everyone I’ve ever met and I mean that as a compliment, love, because as much as you are different, you were my perfect match. In all things that matter and don’t matter. So, please, let me take care of you tonight and for the rest of our lives.”

Your tears flowed from your eyes now and you swiped your fingers under your eyes. “Richard…”

“Well? What do you say?”

A nervous laughter bubbled through you. “Are you ever going to show me the ring?” you teased.

He chuckled nervously as he took the box again and knelt before you. When he opened the velvet top, you couldn’t help the gasp that escaped you.

Nestled in the luscious silk of the box sat the most brilliant emerald-cut diamond you had ever seen. Flanking it were two trapezoidal-cut and tapered baguette diamonds set in a platinum ring. The center diamond was clear and bright and was easily the same size as your pinky fingernail, if not bigger.

You love it. You love the design. You love how he knew you weren’t one looking for the most sparkle but the ring was simple and perfect and well-thought off. You love it. You love him.

You love him.

Of course you did. You loved him with all your heart.

“What do you say, Y/N? Will you marry me?” Richard asked you again.

Your lips quivered before you let out a shaky nod and a very quiet yes.

The smile that bloomed on his face was one you would never forget. It pierced through your heart and it radiated to you as well as you smiled back at him, tears falling from your eyes. He removed the ring from the box and slipped it on your finger—a perfect fit—before he stood and kissed you deeply.

Cheers erupted from the guests before you and when you broke away, you realized that the customers to the restaurant were all of your family and friends. Your parents were there. Your sister. Gramps and gran. His parents Dick and Pat. Even Jerry the chauffer. Annie the production assistant was there. David the best boy. Lily. Taron. Gemma. Dana. Everyone you knew, including your best friend Gina.

You looked at your boyfriend again—no, your fiancé—and smiled at him before kissing him once more.

Here you were at the top of the world, surrounded by people who loved you, in the arms of the man you wanted to spend the rest of your life with. Content. Happy. Effervescent.

Richard pulled back to look into your eyes. His arms were still wrapped around your waist, refusing to let you go. You still had your arms around his neck anyway.

“I love you, Y/N. Forever.”

“I love you too, Richard. Forever.”

Forever.

You liked the sound of that.

A/N 2: THE END. Bet ya didn't see that coming, did you? Or maybe you did? You guys are all smart! So, this chapter concludes Snapshot. I've enjoyed writing and developing the whole story. It was actually just supposed to be a one shot but I guess vox populi says they want a part 2 until eventually I decided to make it a 5-parter. Thanks to everyone who's read every single update (and those who didn't mind Part 4 and Part 5 being more than 5k words). Rest assured, that even though the main part of Snapshot is done, there are still one shots coming (I have two more ideas that are waiting to be written). Ask box is always open for requests and comments and fangirling/fanboying. I love you guys. I'll see you in the next ones! 💙💙

[queer-adhd]

So today I took rouke out to town while I was doing my weekend chores, because it hasn't had a proper trip outside in way too long.

Anyway we got all of our chores done, even managed to get some cheap squishmallows (they really help with rouke's back problems and tbh they're way cheaper than actual orthopaedic pillows lol) and were just on our way back home feeling vaguely accomplished when we ran into a guy we knew.

He was homeless, and we were used to seeing him sat around out neighborhood. He's a nice guy, always recognises rouke and the dog, even me, which is novel. I'm stupidly forgettable when I'm the guy pushing the wheelchair, so almost nobody ever recognises me if they've met us before as a trio. We said hi, I grabbed some change, and he started telling us how things were going and why he was so far from his usual stomping grounds.

Turns out my guy had been on a waiting list for govt housing for four years, and a couple weeks back he'd finally gotten housed. Which was great! Except his housing had processed, but his financial aid hadn't. So he was still stuck asking for money for his pay as you go electrical meter, because without it he couldn't get light, couldn't keep his food good, and couldn't cook anything to eat.

Anyway, thanks to y'all we actually managed to cover bills and rent and food and a few extras and still had some cash left over! Thank you all so much.

It meant that we could get £20 out for him so he could actually heat his house and eat, and sit him down for a hot chocolate and talk. The guy running the cafe was incredibly nice, and once he realised we were buying this dude a drink, he ran to the back and gave us a toasted sandwich somebody had left without collecting.

(the lady behind us in queue was quite obviously politely furious about all of this. Fuck her.)

Anyway my guy's apparently been waiting for universal credit for over a month now, and he's stuck on a pay as you go meter that charges him extra for the privilege of not being able to afford heat. It's only been getting worse as heating bills rise here, and it'll get worse yet soon enough.

He tried to refuse the hot chocolate at first btw until we made it clear that it was no strings and we would feel rude not getting him something if rouke was having something as we chatted.

All the UC stuff is online now, you see. He'd had to scrape together enough cash for a basic smartphone and sim, and he was still mostly lost because the website is absolutely useless and difficult to use. I am GOOD with computers. I still struggle with that hellsite, and with most gov.uk sites. They're designed to be confusing and to put you off as much as possible.

He'd been hospitalised recently for a serious respiratory illness. Had collapsed in the street. His lungs were permanently scarred. It was the fourth time so far. He's still going to have to do a million online job applications, because he's fit for work. If he can't figure out how to do that, they will cut off the benefits he's not even getting yet.

Rouke used to volunteer as an IT assistant at a library, and we managed to help him figure out what his phone number is. Gave him ours and I let him know that I'd be passing by that way a few times that week, so if he lost phone power or credit then he could find me walking the same route most days to get home and we'd help him sort it out.

We can't fix most of his problems, but we could share about the things we knew and how we'd gotten around them. That he could ignore the TV license people, instead of having to find hundreds of pounds for the crime of his apartment having come with a crappy old TV, because they can't legally enter your house to prove it without permission.

He agreed that I'm a carer for rouke despite being unpaid without even a blink btw lol. Thought it was great we'd managed to scam the hospital. Told us to avoid one of the local hospitals, because it's even worse than the one we were at.

I'm so fucking angry right now at the ways the system is still fucking him over. But I guess this is to remind you all that mutual aid, help and kindness between people who are struggling in their own ways, is so fucking important.

We can't solve much. But we can get him electricity soon enough that most of his food will still be good, and he can have light and warm food. We can make sure he has heat so he doesn't get pneumonia again in the week it's going to take UC to actually start giving him money.

Anyone who tells you not to give directly to homeless people is a fucking cop btw.

[thewritetofreespeech]

Can you do a scenario Obey Me were MC has a accidental nip slip that she doesnt notice, but the brothers do.

For the sake of an even playing field, all 7 boys will be reacting to the same scenario: coming to wake MC up in the morning for school only for their titty to be half out.

Lucifer

His knock was polite, but stern. Three short raps, followed by a long pause, before he let himself in. “[Y/N], I have to insist you get up now. You will be late for classes.”

You groan and cruel further into yourself under the covers. Trying to hold on to your sleep, but it was already slipping away through your fingers. With a huff you uncoil yourself and come out from under the covers. “Alright. I’m up.” You announce. Awake but still dreamy eyed as you rubbed the sleep from them.

When your eyes refocus, you see Lucifer staring at you. His face it’s normal placid expression, but definitely staring. “What’s wrong?” You ask. Was your hair some sort of crazy way?

The demon smirked and walked over to you. You blush as he came close to your bed and bent over, rebuttoning your pajama top that had come open in the middle of the night and left your left side exposed. How embarrassing?!

“Perhaps I should come wake you up more often.” He said with a sultry smirk. “Or at least not on a day when you have school. Now, I must insist you get ready. Our model exchange student can’t be late for their day.” He gave you a peck on the cheek and saw his way out. You have to wonder if he was really going to ‘wake you up’ on Saturday…..

Mammon

The loud sound of your door being flung open startled you from your sleep, and practically out of bed. “Hey, hey, hey! Time to get up sleepy head!”

“Mammon!” You growl from under the covers. “What the hell are you doing?!”

“I came to wake you up. Lucifer told me to make sure you’re ready for school. Even Belphie beat you downstairs. Come on. Chop chop!”

You groan and fling your covers off. Sitting up to scratch your head. Hopefully your day was more peaceful after this.

“[Y-Y-Y/N]! What the hell?!” You look over at the demon who had gone from horribly confident to horribly red & stammering in a matter of moments. “Do you always sleep like that?!”

You look down, trying to see what the big deal was, and realizing your chest was exposed. “N-No! It just came off in my sleep! Who are you to judge anyway?! You sleep naked!”

“Yeah! But not with anyone around!”

“You’re not supposed to be around!” You pick up a pillow and toss it at him, which he easily dodged, before shouting, “get out!” The demon did as he was told and scampered off, like a rabbit with his tail on fire.

He avoided you for the rest of the day. Making eye contact but fervently darting his gaze away. Mammon finally came up to you after dinner to apologize, and promised that if he had to wake you up again, he would knock first.

Levi

You were dreaming about pancakes when there was a knock at your door. Quiet, at first. Almost like someone’s knuckles barely touched the door. Then they knocked again, seeming to realize that the first few knocks were no good, knocking with confidence.

“[Y/N]-chan? Are you awake?” You open your eyes from your blanket nest to see Levi poking his head in. “It’s time for school.”

“Oh…yeah…” You yawn after that. Cutting off whatever else you were going to say after that. You shouldn’t have let Levi talk you into watching an anime marathon with him. You’d only gone to sleep a few hours ago. “What time is it?”

The demon looked down at his watch while you got out of bed, and when he looked up his face was completely red.

“[Y-Y-Y/N]! Y-Your….! Ah! I’m so sorry!!”

You blink in a start as Levi slammed the door as he ran away. You wonder what happened, but then catch sight of yourself in the mirror. Your top half exposed. You blush yourself at realizing why he had taken off, but get over the mortification quickly as you had to get ready for school.

Poor Levi couldn’t come near you for several days after that without turning beet red or becoming a stammering idiot. You have to assure him several times that it was really ok, and that your honor was intact, but he promised never to come get your up for school ever again.

Satan

There was a sharp rap at your door that awoke you from your slumber.

“[Y/N], are you awake?”

“Satan?” You question. Hearing his voice from the other side of the door. What was he doing here so early?

Seeming to sense your question, the fourth eldest brother replied in kind. “Lucifer sent me to get you. He was concerned you would be late for school since you weren’t down at breakfast yet. May I come in?”

You chuckle lightly at his polite request and tell him he could come in. Your arms stretching over your head as the door opened and the blonde walked in. “Ah good. You are awake. I was concerned that…uh….um….”

You blink curiously as Satan seemed to lose his train of thought. Unusual for him, as he was typically such a word smith, so you had to ask. “Satan? Is something wrong?”

“I ah…ahem!” The demon cleared his throat. Covering his face with his hand, hiding his blush, as he looked away. “I uh…apologize. I should have given you more time to get ready before I let myself in. Or at least properly dressed.”

Your brow furrowed and you look down to see your pajama top open and blush. Quickly closing it with an apology. “I’m so sorry!”

“It’s...quite alright. I’ll uh…ahem…leave you to get ready now that I know your awake. I’ll see you at school.”

The demon, who normally walked with such purpose and confidence, seemed to stumble in his walk out of your room. Seeming to want to stay, but fighting the urge and forcing himself to leave. Apparently after he had left, he’d gotten into a fight with Mammon and threw him into a wall. You suppose that energy had to go somewhere.

Asmo

A light, delicate rapping on your door woke you up from your peaceful dream about cupcakes and French lattes. The sound was whimsical. Almost like a bird. After that, the smell of roses filled the room as the door opened and the Avatar of Lust appeared.

“Gooood morning darling~!” Asmodeus cheered as he let himself in. Practically gliding across the room and perching himself on the edge of your bed. “Wake up sleeping beauty! Classes will be starting soon, and we don’t want to be late. You need to get up, so you can get ready and look your best.”

You groan softly, but come out from under the covers as requested. He was right. It was time to get ready.

“Aaahh~! [Y/N]! You naughty thing. Tempting me this early in the morning.” You blink the last big of sleep from your gaze, and look down to see where his was trained. You yip as you realize he was staring at your exposed breast, and smacked his hand away when it inched closer.

“Asmodeus!”

The androgenous demon giggled at your scolding, but pulled his hand away in surrender. “Sorry, sorry. I was only kidding.” You have to wonder if he was only ‘kidding’ now that he got rejected. “Let’s just keep this our little secret, ok? I don’t want my brothers getting super jealous about seeing our beautiful [Y/N] in their morning glory. They’ll be banging down the door every morning to get a peek.” Asmo then winked, leaning in to steal a quick peck on your cheek, before he jumped up. “I’ll be waiting for you downstairs~! Unless you need help getting ready. I have too good hands and a lot of enthusiasm for a chore like that.”

The demon giggled brightly all the way out of the room as your tossed pillows at him like rose petals to show him the door.

Beel

The knock on your door was loud, though you could tell not intentionally. It was more a factor of the large fist knocking on it, rather than the force, of the largest of the seven brothers coming to wake you.

“[Y/N]?” You heard Beel’s voice from under your blanket nest. Smiling soft at the gentle way he’d come to wake you up. He must have a lot of experience with Belphie. “Lucifer asked me to come get you up for school. I brought you some breakfast. I didn’t want you to miss out.” You hear what you assume is a tray being sat on your desk. “Some of it didn’t make it all the way here, but most of it did! I tried to keep your favorites safe for you. Mammon wanted the last Hellfire sausage, but I got it for you.”

Your soft smile increased as you pictured the bright, sun like smile on the gentle giants face. Proud of himself for getting it and keeping himself from eating it for you. “Thanks Beel,” you tell him. Coming out from under your covers to see that smiling face in person.

You see it for a moment before his face feel. His eyes averting away from you, and his cheeks turning around as red as his carrot top. “Uh..[Y/N]…your top is kind of falling off.”

You look down and gasp, quickly covering ourself up. “I’m sorry!!”

“That’s ok.” Beel said with a soft laugh. “It happens. Plus, you’ve seen me with my shirt off all the time. It’s not a big deal.”

“It’s not exactly the same….” You mutter quietly into your blanket.

Beel just laughed jovially again, and came over to pat your head. “Come on. Your breakfast is getting cold. I’ll leave so you can eat and get ready. Do you want me to walk you to first period when you’re done?” You nodded into your blankets this time. “Ok! I’ll meet you in the lobby when you’re done.”

With another big smile, your big guy left. Letting you change and enjoy your breakfast, with Hellfire sausage.

Belphie

“Oy…[Y/N]….wake up….”

“Mhmp….Belphie?” Your eyes crack open as he gently shook you. When had he come into your room? You hadn’t heard him knock, or even the door open. Had he just let himself in? “What are you doing here?”

“Stupid Lucifer told me to come get you up for school.” He told you. “I don’t know why. I’m not good at waking people up. I’m barely awake myself.” His statement was punctuated with a long yawn.

You sleepily chuckle and sit up. “Well, you are up. So you’re doing better than me.”

His droopy eyes were looking at you, or perhaps more specifically in your direction. He seemed to be looking at something totally other than your face, and you were about to ask him what when he said, “your boob is sticking out.” Pointing for affect.

You look down to where he was pointing and squeal. Closing your pajama top tight with both hands. “Belphegor! Don’t stare!”

“Why not? It’s nothing haven’t seen before. Remember when your top came off at the beach last summer?”

“That is not something I want to remember right now! And it is not the same! Get out!”

The Sloth demon picked at his ear in annoyance of your yelling, but gave a soft ‘yeah, yeah’ as he saw himself out. Mission accomplished.

He doesn’t seem to understand why you were annoyed with him for the rest of the day, but still made an effort to apologize after a while so you would talk to him again. Only he was allowed to do the silent treatment.

[gobblewanker]

Well. Guess who had some late night Emotions™ and wrote another drabble on that "Sherman adopts Stan and Ford when they're eight because Filbrick is the worst" story?

The room at Sherman's apartment was smaller than the one at their parents place had been. It was cramped, the singular window was poorly insulated, and the wallpaper was flaking. Almost everything in it was second hand - deeply cherished childhood toys picked up from garage sales piled in a corner, a banged up desk Sherman's college was going to throw out anyways nestled under the drafty window, an old space heater Ford had to repair nearly every winter puttering away snugly next to the drawer with it's missing handle. Everything was old and worn, but in a good, reassuring, way. Like a pair of well used shoes, slowly adjusted to it's wearer's feet and fitting far more comfortably than a new pair ever could. As far as Ford was concerned, it was infinitely more a home than the pawnshop had ever been.

Maybe that made sense though. He'd soon spent half his life there. The latter part. The better one. The one spent living in a shoddy apartment which's walls nonetheless practically oozed with love and family. The one without dad looming large like some invisible but always precent danger. The one with memories permeated by safety and stability.

Ford knew much of that stability was a carefully crafted façade, propped up on his big brother's shoulders. He'd caught on to it long before Stan, but in retrospect it was obvious. The way Sherman would skip meals so they never had to, the way he always seemed to be working overtime, all of it. It wasn't a stable situation at all. But he'd made it feel that was. Always made it seem like there was nothing to worry about. Ford and Stan had tried to help out wherever they could, doing chores when there were any and otherwise just being good and staying out of the way. It had taken a long time for the permanence of the situation to sink in. For the realization to hit that they wouldn't get sent back. That no matter what they did, Shermie wouldn't get fed up with them and cart them back to Pa.

But what if it wouldn't be up to him?

"Hey, Stan?" Ford whispered into the quiet of the dark. From the bunk under him, he heard a low grunt of affirmation.

"Yeah?" There was no trace of drowsiness in Stan's voice.

"I can't sleep."

"Tell me about it."

Ford dropped his arm over the side of the bed, letting it dangle. It didn't take more than a few seconds for Stan's hand to find it. Five fingers intertwining with six. An old gesture of reassurance. Quiet and secret, Pa wasn't big on sentimentality. That stuff was for women and crybabies. The secrecy wasn't a necessity anymore, Sherman didn't mind, but the gesture had carried them through long enough to become ingrained.

"I'm scared." Ford said. The confession came with ease. Just one of the millions that had been dispersed into the darkened bedroom over the years. Half a childhood spent.

"Me too." Stan's voice answered, drifting up from below. "Ya thinking about the war?"

Ford nodded into his pillow, before remembering Stan couldn't see him. "Yeah."

Silence descended on the room like a blanket again. Soft, but very palpable and almost suffocating.

It had been a perfectly normal day at first. When they woke up that morning, everything had been just fine. Perfectly average. You never really appreciate 'avrage' until it's threatened.

There'd been recruiters at their school, talking to the older students about war and enlistment and other things Ford wanted nothing to do with. It was something he was going to ignore. It didn't concern him. He and Stan were both too young. He'd felt a strange sense of almost invulnerability at that. So he'd just kept walking. He'd gotten caught up in an interesting discussion with his physics teacher at the end of the lesson, and was far more concerned with the fact that he was running late to meet up with Stan for lunch. But then it'd hit him with the same speed and ferocity as an oncoming freight train that while he and Stan might be in the clear, that same certainty was in no way extended to Sherman.

The closest thing to a parent they had, and an uncaring universe had just added his name to some nebulous lottery where being picked would spell tragedy.

Sherman was security, and now he might be ripped away.

Suffice to say, they hadn't gone to get food after that. Instead, the entire lunch period had been spent locked up in a bathroom stall, Stan trying his best to talk Ford down from the ensuing panic attack without becoming overwrought himself.

"What do we do, Stan?" Ford's voice was low and miserable. He'd managed to pull himself together for the entire evening, not wanting to worry Sherman. But problems always seemed much bigger in the dark, and this one was insurmountable enough in daylight.

"I donno." Stan said. "Do ya wanna go talk with 'im?"

"I don't know."

Ford went quiet again, just listening to the rumbling heater and the odd car passing by outside. If there was one thing he missed about their old room, it was the sound of the ocean. A busy road was no substitute for calming waves.

Did he want to go talk to Sherman? Yes. The sense of comfort he usually got - both of them usually got - from doing that was so deep rooted it was only surpassed by the comfort they could find in eachother. But this was about Sherman, so venting their fears with him might help. He never got upset at them for doing so, not for being 'sissies' or for keeping him up when he had work in the morning or for bothering him. The fact that they could go wake him up if they needed it was another one of those truths that had taken a long time to sink in. But after a bad bout of the flu had almost escalated to hospitalisation for both of them because they wouldn't tell Sherman they weren't feeling well they'd sat down and had a very long chat about the importance of communication. It still felt like night and day compared to Pa.

"I guess I want to go talk to him. But it feels stupid."

"You know he wouldn't see it like that." Stan's hand squeezed Ford's comfortingly.

"I know. But..."

But what? Ford wasn't sure how to articulate the issue. Not even to himself really. He wanted to go and ask for reassurance, he wanted that familiar comfort. The one that made him think of sitting up late at night being hugged and reassured through childhood stomach aches and emotional breakdowns over bullies. That strange paradoxical feeling of a miserable situation made almost... Cozy? None of those situations were ever good. The things that facilitated them hurt. But that hurt facilitated closeness and safety, and those emotions were always the ones that remained. They were good memories tinged with something bad. Or maybe bad memories overwhelmed by something good?

So yes. He wanted that. He wanted to make a good memory out of this hurt.

But that felt selfish.

The situation was horrible. Horrible to the point where trying to make something good, however miniscule, come out of it almost felt like it'd be disrespectful. Making light of something that should stay dark. That should hurt, and only hurt.

"Ford? Ya still awake?"

Ford breathed shakily through his nose. Trying to stop his voice from wavering the way he just knew it would.

"I want to go talk to him. But it feels wrong."

"Why?"

"I don't know how to- I don't-" Ford paused, focusing on breathing again. Intellectually, he knew he didn't have the keep the emotions tapped down. Another lesson Sherman had worked hard to drill into them. It was okay to cry and dad was an asshole for demanding they don't. But he still didn't want to. It still felt somehow weak. Shameful. "I want to go, I want to make it feel better, but I also don't want to make it feel better because it hurts and it should. It should hurt. It's awful."

Stan remained quiet for another few seconds. Usually he had no qualms about blurting out whatever came to his mind, but maybe this situation required more thought.

"Let me get this straight... The reason you don't want to go and talk to Shermie is because ya want to be upset?"

Ford didn't know if that was it or not. He couldn't make heads or tails of his own emotions. They felt huge and overwhelming, too big to fit inside him but also too big to unravel and understand. Like a nest of gigantic snakes all tangled up in eachother, chaotic and confused, hissing and biting itself.

"It's bad. It's so bad that trying to make it good feels wrong." He didn't know if that was it either.

Stan let go of his hand, and Ford instantly mourned the loss of contact. Comfort? Wasn't comfort what he didn't want? He was so confused, he just wanted everything to make sense. He lifted the corner of his t-shirt to wipe at his stinging eyes as Stan's face appeared over the side of the bed.

"Ford... Look, it's okay to let things hurt, but it's also okay to make them hurt less." Stan looked at him intensely. Ford felt himself becoming even more choked up at the scrutiny. "No, seriously. It's like... Like breaking a leg, right? Remember that time in fourth grade when you did that?"

Ford nodded, slightly unsure what this had to do with anything.

"It hurt, and it's okay that it hurt. It made sense that it hurt, and you don't pretend like it doesn't. But just because it makes sense that it hurts doesn't mean it was bad that you got painkillers and a cast. Without that junk it wouldn't have healed right."

That... He supposed that might be a valid analogy. Maybe Stan had a point.

"So... You think we should go?"

"Are you going to feel any better if we don't?"

Ford considered for a moment, still warring with the conflicting emotions twisting his stomach all up in knots. But he thought maybe it was slightly less. Shaking his head, he excavated himself from the nest of blankets and clambered down the ladder. Moving through the darkened apartment and arriving to knock at their brother's door as they'd done so many times before.

In the end, it did help. Sitting huddled together on the bed in the dark until the sun began to rise and the fear crept away with the shadows. Until it felt safe enough to fall asleep, secure in the knowledge that everyone would still be there come morning. The situation was large and looming and firmly out of their control. That much didn't change. They couldn't decide how things would end, but they could decide how they would cope. And they would cope.

Together.

[plutos-planetarium]

c!sbi + reader; meeting + bonding? time !

in this, you're related to niki !

unedited

c: philza, wilbur, techno, tommy

meeting-

you met the boys through wil actually

wilbur came around your house a lot when you were growing up

though you didn't talk a whole whole lot, due to you being socially anxious, you still felt fairly close to wil :)

it took a while for you to meet everyone

wilbur had to babysit you for a few hours, n so he took you to his home

phil was the only person home that day

n due to his fatherly nature, you had gotten close to him quite quickly

wil got bored n left the room lmao

so you stayed with phil for a while

helping him make lunch before his other children came

about five minutes into your break, as you were sitting on the counter eating fruit snacks

tommy came in

very loudly too :/

he scared you and you almost fell lol

as soon as he turned the corner into the kitchen

"wot the fock"

after a few silent moments

he began screaming about how there was a stranger eating his fruit snack

though he sure as hell shut up when techno walked in

you were quite terrified at the moment

there was a child screeching at you and a very intimidating man behind him

and why were all these boys so tall??

anyway, after phil calmed down tommy

you n him brought the lunch into the living room

all of you ate in silence, besides wil and phil thanking you for doing food

bonding?-

philza:

since you only had niki and wil growing up, it was nice to have a real father figure to look up to

you often helped the man cook meal for the boys !

you had also managed to learn a few things about potions while watching him

and surprised him with a regen potion one day he cried a little bit

it was nice to have another person who had some common sence

philza quite enjoyed being around you

you were always very helpful, and eager to learn things

the two of you occasionally sat on the porch as he would tell you stories

there was one story, that you had asked him to re-tell you about a million times

it was about how him and kristin met

you always found the story so fascinating and got so excited when he would tell it

wilbur:

you and wil definitely got closer after a bit

staying in his room and watching him play his guitar

you helped him with his songs alot

you had eventually convinced him to teach you a bit

though he acted like he was annoyed, you could tell he enjoyed it

you also helped him with house chores !

which rarely ever got done because you were to busy dancing to the music and singing into broom handles

made him a guitar pick when his finally broke

his initials were carved into it so that "nobody could steal it since it has his name on it"

gave you the biggest hug :( /pos

being around wilbur is always just so fun

techno:

to say you were scared of him at first was an understatement

you were terrified

that was until you had seen him outside, reading a book near a tree

he looked so peaceful? how could he be scary what?

so you decided to join him

this became a recurring thing

not talking much unless you both were at that tree

he usually read to you while you picked up flowers and such

made him a pretty flower crown hndujsn

you also really liked carl!

helped techno groom him

he really enjoyed spending time w you

tommy:

well,,, it took a while for you and tommy to get along

he just didn't like you :/

rude ass bitch smh

but when he was finally okay with you

you helped him out a lot

whether it was creating chaos or going mining, you were there

mining was probably your favorite thing to do with tommy

it was quite relaxing actually

he didn't usually keep his loud persona around you

you both got excited over finding even the most basic ores

there was a time where you had fallen off the side of a short ravine

and i don't think tommy has ever panicked that much

thankfully, you weren't very hurt

but while you were recovering, he stayed with you alot

he was so worried when you fell, and just wants to make sure you'll be safe now

he also shares his fruit snacks w you :D

all:

movie nights were a very common thing

they almost always invited you and niki over

though niki couldn't attend very often, she always had you bring them something from the bakery

the boys all loved having you over

even though it usually added more chaos

"no! (y/n) put the bowl down"

"if you guys don't stop fighting i will take your fruit snacks away"

tommy was always the first person to fall asleep :/

and then get mad when the movie was over and he missed it

but he also got mad when you woke him up??

what do you want from us tommy, please

moving on

lots of food fights happened-

techno usually started them by throwing popcorn at wil-

mmmh yay now we'll have to spend 3 hours cleaning the house

phil, tech, n tommy are the ones who clean because, again, you and wil are dancing

it's always really nice having you over though

you and niki are like family to them :D

[beifongsss]

firebending [zuko]

Pairing: Zuko x reader

Requested?: Yes! By a wonderful anon: “your zuko fics are all so well-written! I have a request for a firebender reader who hates the fire nation and was never trained in the art of fighting. then she/they join the gaang and learns firebending with aang from zuko. it’s awkward between them at first but cue ~ romance ~”

Summary: If someone told you that you’d end up dating the Fire Nation prince one day, you would’ve laughed in their face. If only you knew how right they were.

wc. ~5.2k

.masterlist.

~

When you first joined the Gaang, everyone expected you and Katara to hate each other. After all, you were from the Fire Nation and everybody knew Katara was the biggest anti-Fire Nation enthusiast there ever was.

They were quickly proven wrong when you didn’t fight against Katara’s harsh remarks, instead agreeing with them and even adding more scathing words of your own to show your distaste towards the Fire Nation. Since joining them, you never wore anything related to the Fire Nation. Nothing that is, with the exception of an elaborate hairpiece that your mother had left you. The hairpiece never left your body, the sunstone in the middle of it shining from its place on your head.

Escaping Ba Sing Se (and therefore the Earth Kingdom) had simultaneously been the best and worst thing that had happened to you. You were glad that Aang was alive, obviously, but being back in Fire Nation clothing was making you anxious.

Ever since the battle in the catacombs, you had been avoiding everyone. You had revealed your firebending in a panic, shooting a strong blast of fire at the banished prince as he snuck up on Katara. He had been taken off guard just long enough for you to subdue him before he realized that you didn’t know what you were doing.

There had been no time for Katara to question you after that. You had all fled and met up with her father, Hakoda, before seizing a Fire Nation ship to use as a disguise. As soon as you stepped foot on the ship, you had scrambled to an empty room and locked yourself inside. You had ignored Katara’s pleas for you to open the door, never once moving from your spot unless it was to use the bathroom or to get the tray of food that you knew had been placed at your door.

No one had known you were a firebender, and the initial shock eventually wore off as everyone found themselves missing your presence. It wasn’t until Aang woke up that you finally emerged.

~

“(Y/N)?” Sokka asked hesitantly, knocking softly on your door.

“Go away!” was the muffled reply that came from your room.

“Nope. I think Aang wants to see you.”

Sokka waited for a few seconds before the door swung open, reveling you standing there. You were wearing your Earth Kingdom clothes, trying to delay the inevitable. You looked up at him, making his heart hurt when he noticed the exhaustion in your eyes.

“Is he really awake?” you asked, your voice small. Sokka nodded.

“Hurry up and get changed. He’s on the deck.”

You nodded softly before closing the door. You opened it again a few minutes later, now dressed in red. As much as Sokka hated to admit it, you looked good in red. The Fire Nation was your home, after all. You followed him up to the deck, your finger nimbly twisting part of your hair into a knot big enough for your hairpiece.

“(Y/N)!” Aang yelled when you came into view. He launched himself at you and you caught him with a small “oof”. You giggled softly as you rubbed his head, making his hair stick up in all directions.

“Aang!” you cried in reply. “You have hair!”

Aang made a funny face at your words before fixing his hair. “Yeah, I guess I was out longer than I thought.”

You leaned down and swept the boy up into another hug, pulling him close as you held tears back. “I’m so glad you’re okay Aang. I don’t know what we would’ve done if you-”

“Don’t worry! Look at me, I’m fine!” Aang said, trying to make you feel better. He led you over to where everyone else was, Katara looking up and smiling softly as you glanced at her. “They also told me about your firebending! How come you never told us?’

You reeled back in shock, looking around wildly as everyone heard Aang’s word. When there were no negative reactions, you relaxed slightly.

“Everyone already knows huh?” you asked drily, being met with nods from everyone on board. You sighed and tapped your foot before speaking. “Okay, yes I’m a firebender. The reason I never told you guys is because I never wanted to use it. I was young when I fled and I never got a chance to learn anything other than the basics.”

Aang nodded in understanding. “But you could’ve built your skills that time we met Jeong Jeong.”

“No. After my family...” you trailed off, thinking about why you never became a master bender. Aang gave you an encouraging look and you breathed in deeply. “I promised myself I wouldn’t firebend ever again. Not after that.”

Aang nodded in understanding as you fell silent, thinking about your past. The Fire Nation was the reason why you had been all alone. They had killed your family with the weapon you now hated: firebending.

The silence engulfed the entire ship, everyone lost in their own thoughts. There was a peaceful atmosphere as the ship drifted along, but of course it didn’t last long.

Soon enough, you found yourself chasing after Aang, eventually being forced to hide in the Fire Nation as the Day Of Black Sun loomed closer and closer.

~

The promise that you had made to yourself to never firebend again was still intact. You hadn’t let any bursts of fire out, not even when you had found yourself surrounded by Fire Nation troops on the Day of Black Sun. The eclipse was a blessing to you, the brief eight minutes just long enough to make you feel normal.

Of course, you soon found yourselves fleeing to the Western Air Temple, silently mourning the loss the rest of the invasion army. Once you all settled in, you kept wearing the red top you had acquired in the Fire Nation. You don’t know why; it just brought you some type of comfort. Aang had grinned when he noticed, wondering if all your adventures in the Fire Nation had lessened your hatred towards the nation.

It had.

But not by much. Wearing the color red weighed heavily on your soul and you spent many of your waking hours debating whether or not keeping the red clothes was the right choice. It frustrated you to no end, how a simply piece of cloth could jumble your thoughts so easily. The red reminded you of the pain and grief you had experienced when you had lost your family, but in a twisted way it also reminded you of them. It reminded you of the days back when you still had them, back when you still had a home and you were happy. Deep down, you knew that you were Fire Nation but that knowledge didn’t stop your inner turmoil. And over the next few days, it only got worse with the arrival of a certain someone.

“Hello, Zuko here.”

You tried to hold back your groan, you really did. But it was as though the universe wanted to test you and had decided to do so by sending the Fire Nation prince your way. Zuko’s soft smile had dropped at your reaction, the corners of his lips quirking downward.

“Hey, I heard you guys flying around down there, so, I just thought I'd wait for you here,” he continued. Appa walked up to the prince and sniffed him before proceeding to lick him. Zuko’s face twisted up in disgust. “I know you must be surprised to see me here.”

"Not really,” Sokka said. “Since you've followed us all over the world!”

“Right,” Zuko said, wincing slightly as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Well, uh, anyway, what I wanted to tell you about is that I've changed, and I, uh, I'm good now, and well I think I should join your group, oh, and I can teach firebending to you. See, I, uh-”

“You want to what now?” you asked sharply, exchanging a look with Katara.

“You can't possibly think that any of us would trust you, can you?” she asked, opening her water skin. “I mean, how stupid do you think we are?!”

Zuko’s eyes shifted to you before he answered. “You trust her. She’s a firebender.”

Your eyes widened in anger and you began to march up to the prince, only stopping when Katara held you back.

“I am not, a firebender,” you hissed, staring Zuko down. “And I am not Fire Nation.”

Zuko stayed quiet, his eyes drifting from your red shirt to the hairpiece on your head. You followed his line of sight, eyes widening when you realized he was staring at the sunstone. You yanked your arm out of Katara’s grip, angrily stomping out of the room. You quickly stripped yourself of your red top as soon as you were out of sight before sighing deeply and pulling your hairpiece out. You arrived at the sleeping chamber and sat down on your sleeping bag quietly, holding the hairpiece in your hand tightly.

You stared at it sadly, the sunstone glinting in the dim light. Without hesitation, you pulled your arm back and flung it away, watching the sunstone glint in the sunlight as it rolled towards the edge. It was gone in a second, tumbling over the edge of the temple.

Now you were truly no longer Fire Nation.

~

Your life had just gotten ten times harder now that Zuko had been allowed to join the group. The defeat of Combustion Man had been intense and you had found injured when it was all over. Unlike Sokka, you had never been good with fighting, always relying on your intelligence to get you out of dire situations. With Combustion Man however, that proved to be a problem, and you had found yourself caught in the middle of a fight with no protection whatsoever.

In addition to the pain of your injury, you found yourself dealing with the prince’s presence. You found yourself avoiding the group entirely, taking on the more tedious chores (like laundry) to avoid spending time with the group and even hanging out with Haru, Teo, and The Duke as they explored the temple.

Tensions didn’t rise until a few days later, beginning when Aang approached you with an idea. After your tragic failure with Combustion Man, Aang believed that you needed to learn how to protect yourself and he thought that the right way to do that was by learning how to firebend. You had vehemently refused, accidentally yelling at the Air Nomad as everyone else watched in silence.

The argument was put on pause for a few days when Aang and Zuko traveled to the Sun Warriors’ ruins but when they came back, Toph had sided with him as well. You felt slightly betrayed by the small earthbender but still refused, stating that there was no way you would willingly learn how to firebend. At least you still had Sokka and Katara on your side.

At least you did until Sokka and Zuko took a trip to The Boiling Rock the next day. When they got back two days later, Sokka was on Aang’s side as well. The fight with Azula on the gondola had left him shaken as he realized just how hard it was to fight a bender with just a sword. You didn’t know how to use a sword, but you could firebend and so Sokka became one of Aang’s supporters. Katara was the only one who was still on your side, but that changed when Azula raided the temple.

Everyone had been woken up suddenly, reacting a bit slower than normal as Azula appeared. She immediately lunged at you, shooting blasts of blue fire as she stalked closer to you. Your eyes were wide with fear, dodging her attacks as much as you could.

“Watch out!” Zuko yelled, tackling you from the side, a pillar crashing down where you had been standing as a result of Azula’s lightning. You grunted softly as you landed, the breath leaving your lungs as Zuko landed on top of you. You opened your eyes immediately, meeting bright gold irises before they looked away as Zuko began to scan you for any visible injuries. Zuko’s hands rested on either side of your head as he tried to keep his weight off of you, not that it helped considering you were still struggling to catch your breath.

Or maybe you were struggling to catch your breath because of how close he was.

“Are you okay?” Zuko asked, drawing your attention back to him. Scowling, you threw him off of you before scrambling to your feet, rushing to help Katara when you heard her yelp. Zuko noticed Toph earthbend a tunnel into the side of the temple, and rushed to join the others. His eyes landed on you as you threw yourself to the side, narrowly dodging another one of Azula’s deadly blasts. The princess grabbed you by the hair, laughing maniacally before dragging you to the airships.

“What are you doing?” Aang yelled, noticing that Zuko had stopped in his path.

“Azula has (Y/N)!” Zuko replied, turning around and facing the airships. “I’m gonna go get her.”

Katara rushed to Aang’s side, exchanging a worried look with him before getting on top of Appa. The rest of the Gaang joined them, holding on tight as they tried to maneuver the sky bison through all the debris. 

Zuko ran and launched himself onto the airship, landing safely on top of one. He glared at his sister, noticing that she was still holding onto you.

“Let her go, Azula!” Zuko yelled, his eyes never leaving hers.

“Hmm, I don’t think I will,” Azula replied, the blue flame in her palm growing brighter as she held it up to your face. “I think I’ll get rid of her instead. Then I’ll get rid of you. I can’t wait to celebrate being an only child.”

She inched the flame closer to your face, prompting Zuko to shoot a fire blast near her head. Growling, Azula tossed you to the side before confronting Zuko. The two siblings fought for a few minutes and you tried your best to avoid any wayward blasts. The fight stopped when they both struck at the same time, the resulting blast blowing both of them backwards.

“Zuko!” you cried, sprinting to grab the boy before he fell. You managed to grab onto his hand but his momentum sent you both tumbling into the chasm, a scream getting stuck in your throat as you plummeted. You were so overcome with fear that you didn’t notice Zuko pulling you into him, holding you close as you fell.

The fall didn’t last long, Appa managing to swoop in and save the two of you. You sat quietly on Appa’s saddle, both you and Zuko watching Azula as she kept falling.

“She’s...not gonna make it,” Zuko said softly, his arms tightening around you slightly. You watched with wide eyes as Azula used firebending to propel herself to the cliffside, sliding down a bit further before she took out her hairpin and stuck it into the side of the cliff, effectively ending her fall. “Of course she did.”

The seven of you sat in silence for a few minutes before Katara spoke up, tears in her eyes as she looked at you. “(Y/N), seeing Azula capture you got me thinking. I think...I think that you should learn how to firebend. You need to know how to defend yourself.”

“And I think that you can let go of each other now,” Sokka said cheekily, trying to diffuse the tension that had settled upon the group at Katara’s words. You shimmied out of Zuko’s hold, walking up to the Water Tribe girl and looking at her in disbelief.

“You’re supposed to be on my side Katara,” you hissed, flinching when she tried to reach for your hand. Without another words, you walked away and took Appa’s reins. The rest of the flight was silent, everybody knowing that now was not the time to be chatty.

~

Once again, you had retreated from the group. It wasn’t exactly hard considering the fact that now it was Katara and Zuko who had disappeared, gone on a quest to find her mother’s murderer. After a few days, Zuko reappeared alone and you found yourselves traveling to Ember Island.

Upon your arrival, you made your way over to Katara, who was standing quietly on the deck.

“I heard what you did,” you spoke first. “I’m glad you didn’t kill him.”

“I couldn’t bring myself to do it,” she whispered back, still looking straight ahead.

“Why?”

She turned slightly, facing you before speaking. “It’s not in my nature to kill. I couldn’t bring myself to use my bending for that. I have the chance to prevent other’s from going through what I went through; from going through what you went through. I want to use my bending for good.”

You mulled over her words for a few seconds before sighing deeply and walking away. Aang watched you quietly as he walked over to Katara, his eyes widening slightly when you walked up to Zuko.

“Ok,” you said quietly, looking up at the prince. “Teach me how to firebend.”

Zuko’s eyes widened briefly before he crossed his arms and composed himself. “Tomorrow at dawn. Be ready.”

And ready you were. Every day. Firebending was a lot easier than you expected, and you found yourself breezing though the basics and the intermediate moves. It wasn’t until you got to the advanced moves that you began to have some trouble.

“No!” Zuko barked. “That’s not how it’s done. Again!”

Your eye twitched before you took your stance again, launching yourself into the move that you were currently working on. You sighed deeply when you realized you had done it wrong again.

“Wrong. Again.”

“If you’re so good at it then come and show me,” you snapped, fed up with his attitude. Zuko straightened up before walking over to you, motioning for you to take your stance once more. You rolled your eyes, blowing the hair out of your eyes before complying.

“I will,” he said, moving your arms into the right position. He walked around you and you opened your mouth to make another comment, stopping when his hand came around from behind and gently shut your jaw. “Don’t say anything.”

Your breath hitched in your throat as he spoke. He was closer than you thought, his lips brushing your ear as he spoke. You shivered when his hands landed on your back, fixing your posture before they made their way to your waist. He gripped your waist firmly, shifting you into position before leaning forwards slightly, whispering in your ear once more. “Do it again.”

Fighting a blush, you did as you were told. You chuckled breathlessly when you did it correctly this time, a blast of fire leaving your hand at the right moment.

“See? You did it,” Zuko said, a faint smirk on his lips. “You’re a natural.”

You bounced up to him, wrapping your arms around his neck in excitement. His arms immediately wrapped around your waist, enjoying the closeness of the hug. You leaned back slightly, meeting his eyes as you smiled cheesily. “It’s only because I have such a great teacher.”

The two of you walked back to the beach house, joking around after a long day of training. Upon entering the beach house, Katara pulled you aside. “(Y/N)! Thank goodness. I need your help in the kitchen!”

You gave Zuko an apologetic smile as you followed Katara, being met with an understanding nod as he went off on his own. Katara handed you a tray of cups, smirking slightly before speaking. “So, you and Zuko huh?”

“What? N-No,” you replied immediately.

“I’m talking about firebending. How’s that going?” Katara said, filling the cups with watermelon juice as she arched an eyebrow.

A bright blush spread across your cheeks as you realized what she was talking about. “O-Oh. It’s going great. Zuko’s been teaching me some advanced moves now!”

Katara hummed in reply, waving you away now that the cups were full. You headed out of the kitchen in a hurry, loosing your footing when you heard Katara speak yet again.

“I bet the next move he makes is gonna be on you.”

~

The conversation between you and Katara was basically forgotten as the days went by. 

Zuko had informed the Gaang about his father’s plan to destroy the Earth Kingdom, causing you all to worry greatly. In addition, Aang had disappeared overnight and all attempts to find him had been futile.

And that’s how you found yourselves following June and her shirshu as she led you to Ba Sing Se, where Zuko’s Uncle Iroh was supposed to be. You had been warmly welcomed by the Order of the White Lotus and Zuko and Iroh had made up, leaving you with only a day to plan out what you were going to do before Sozin’s comet arrived.

It was quickly decided that the Order of the White Lotus would stay behind and reclaim Ba Sing Se while Sokka, Suki, and Toph would set out to destroy the airship fleet. Zuko had asked you and Katara to join him in defeating Azula and although Katara had agreed immediately, you were a bit hesitant. Of course, Zuko noticed and he decided to confront you about it.

“(Y/N),” Zuko said, coming up to you when you were prepping Appa for the ride. Katara was a few yards away, giving the two of you privacy. You glanced at Zuko before climbing onto Appa’s saddle, the prince following closely behind you. “What’s wrong?”

“Zuko, I,” you paused, breathing deeply. “I shouldn’t go. I just started bending and what is something goes wrong? I don’t want to be a liability to y-”

“Hey,” Zuko whispered, ducking his head to make eye contact with you. “I meant what I said on Ember Island. You’re a natural. You’ll be fine.”

You sighed before hugging your knees to your chest. “I just can’t believe that I’m actually returning to the Fire Nation, even if it’s to help you reclaim your throne. I’m just glad that maybe under your rule, things might finally change.”

Zuko stayed quiet before standing up and reaching for his bag. He shuffled around for a moment before kneeling behind you, his fingers gently grabbing your hair.

“What are you-”

“Shh,” Zuko cut you off. “Give me a second.”

His fingers weaved through your hair, putting it up into a style you were all too familiar with. He was gentle with his actions, letting his hands fall to your shoulders when he was done. “There.”

You reached up, your fingers trembling slightly as they brushed over the sunstone that you had known your whole life.

“M-My hairpiece,” you gasped, tears springing to your eyes as you realized how much you had missed it. “How did you-”

“I found it at the Western Air Temple,” Zuko interrupted quietly. “It was after I came to you guys the first time. Katara sent me away and when I was walking under a balcony, it fell onto the ground. I recognized it so I picked it up. I assumed you would want it back at some point.”

Zuko fell backwards when you threw yourself at him, wrapping him up in a tight hug.

“Thank you,” you whispered, leaning up and pressing a kiss to his cheek. A tiny gasp escaped him and you pulled back, meeting his eyes as he stared down at you. The two of you stared at each other for a few tense seconds before you both leaned forwards rapidly, your lips meeting in the middle.

Maybe it was a spur of the moment decision, kissing Zuko. Maybe it was due to to the anxiety bubbling up in you, your emotions hard to control as you prepared to end of the war in one way or another. Or maybe, it was simply two teenagers too shy to tell each other how they felt, finally sharing a tender moment.

“So, are we ready to go?” Katara asked. The two of you sprung apart, blushes on both of your faces as the Water Tribe girl smirked at you. Zuko nodded and you looked away, taking your place at Appa’s reins.

“Ready as I’ll ever be. Yip yip.”

~

The fight had been a blur to you. You didn’t remember much other than the fact that Zuko had taken a bolt of lightning meant for you. After Zuko had been injured, you and Katara had teamed up to take Azula down. She had challenged you to an Agni Kai after striking Zuko and you had accepted in order to lure her away from his body. To say she had been surprised when you actually fought back with fire was an understatement.

With Katara’s help, you managed to chain her to an old grate before rushing over to aid Zuko. After Katara had done all she could, you helped Zuko into the palace where he had been taken to the infirmary. You hadn’t seen him since.

You had however, met back up with Aang, Sokka, Toph, and Suki. They informed the two of you of what they had done and in turn you had told them about Zuko’s injury. They were all worried about him but after hearing that Katara had healed him, they were slightly relieved.

The next time you saw the prince was on the day of his coronation. Some of the palace guards had come for you, stating that Zuko was requesting your presence. You felt your heart jump into your throat as you nodded, allowing them to lead you through the palace until you came to a pair of gilded doors.

“He’s in there,” one of the guards said. “Would you like us to announce your arrival?”

“No, it’s fine. I can just knock,” you said meekly, causing the guards to smile amusedly. You bowed shortly to them before turning to face the door, gently knocking and waiting for a response.

“Come in!”

The door swung open at your touch and you awkwardly stepped inside, still standing near the doorway as your gaze landed on Zuko.

“Close it,” he said, his voice quiet yet rough. You complied, stepping aside and shutting the door before inching closer. He was shirtless, thick bandages covering his torso. Covering the new scar he had earned because of you. He turned around, his face softening when his eyes met yours.

“Hey,” he said softly, his eyes scanning you for injuries the way he did back when Azula raided the Western Air Temple.

“Hi, how are you?” you squeaked, shuffling awkwardly. You winced at your words, blushing in embarrassment as Zuko’s lips quirked up. He walked over to his bed before picking up the shirt he was going to wear.

“I’m fine. How are you?” he asked, a teasing smile on his lips as he began to put it on. His smile dropped as he moved too harshly, pain shooting through his torso as he struggled to pull the fabric on.

“Spirits! Be careful,” you said, all embarrassment leaving you as you rushed forwards and took the shirt from his hands. “Here, let me.”

You helped him slide one arm in before slipping it over his shoulders and guiding his other arm in as well. You grabbed the belt used to hold it in place before standing in front of him. Your breath caught in your throat as you eyed the bandages, guilt settling in your stomach as you softly placed a hand on his chest. Zuko’s hands automatically went to your waist, pulling you closer to him as he stared at you worriedly.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered, still looking at his chest. “This was my fault.”

“Hey,” Zuko replied, one of hands leaving your waist to lift your chin. You shivered softly at the action, your eyes finally meeting his bright gold ones. “It wasn’t your fault. Azula shouldn’t have done it in the first place. She challenged me to an Agni Kai, not you.”

“You should’ve let it hit me,” you said, looking at him sadly. “I can’t imagine what would’ve happened if Katara hadn’t been there. Zuko, you could’ve d-”

Your eyes widened and your words died on your throat when Zuko leant down, softly pressing his lips to yours. The hand that was still on your waist wrapped around you, pulling you closer as Zuko kissed you gently. He began to pull away after a few seconds, noticing your lack of response. Mentally kicking yourself, you began to kiss back, closing your eyes as you wrapped your free arm around his neck to keep him close. Zuko couldn’t help but smile at your response.

“I took that hit because I love you, (Y/N),” Zuko whispered, finally pulling away and leaning his forehead against yours. “I couldn’t let Azula hurt you.”

“Zuko, I-I love you too,” you confessed, your eyes still closed. Suddenly, you pulled away before gently swatting his head. “But that doesn’t make what you did any less stupid.”

“Hey! I saved your life!” he exclaimed, rubbing his head.

“I know,” you said, rolling your eyes before hugging him close once again. “And I love you for it. But never, and I mean never, do that again.”

“No promises,” Zuko replied, guiding your lips to his once more. This kiss was different, full of trust and love and peace.

You pulled away reluctantly, fixing his shirt and looping the belt around him before taking his hand. “Now let’s go. You have a coronation to get to.”

Zuko stopped for a second, pulling you back to him as he looked at you uncertainly. You looked up at him curiously, prompting him to speak.

“Are you-” Zuko stopped abruptly, trying to get his thoughts in order. “Will you stay with me? Here? Even after everyone else leaves?”

You hesitated for a split second, remembering everything that you had suffered at the hands of the Fire Nation. You opened your mouth to reply, looking up to meet Zuko’s gaze. You faltered for a moment, taking in the way he was looking at you. Here in front of you stood the crown prince, the very symbol of the nation that you had spent the majority of your life hating. But he was also just a teen, and he was willing to put in the work to fix the Fire Nation’s past mistakes.

Your heart swelled in your chest as you thought about the golden-eyed boy , and everything he had done to help the Avatar. Because of him, the Fire Nation now had a chance at redemption, and you knew it wouldn’t be easy to undo centuries of imperialism and pain. Especially not when it was so deeply rooted in the nation. And so you answered his question, confident that you were making the right decision.

“Of course I’ll stay, Zuko. And I’ll be here to help you every step of the way.”

~

taglist!

@musicalkeys, @mywigglybaby​, @bubblebars​, @iguessthefloorislava​, @dekahg​, @boxofteenageideas​, @bottledcotscowater, @butterflycore​, @coldlilheart​, @the-firebender-girl​, @ajediherowitchrunner​, @lammello​, @astroninaaa​, @samsmultifandomblogs​, @sadskater25, @oddment-niwit-blubber-tweak​, @duh-dobrik​

[kiribaku-queen]

The Blood King and his Queen [12]

Pairing: Bakugou x reader

Romance, Angst, Drama

Word count: 1.9K

Summary:  From being a mere servant girl to marrying the scariest prince in existence, your world changed right before your eyes. Exchanging places with the princess, you knew, wasn’t going to be easy. But could you have found love on the way? Or was it never meant to be?

A/N: Short chapter today, and I know it’s not much but I hope you still enjoy it! I promise next week’s chapter will be so much better and I’m still working on those requests! Just give me some time to recover 😊 happy reading!

[previous]                                                                                               [next]

Bakugou sat grudgingly on his throne, looking out into the sea of dancing people. Lounged back in his seat, legs spread, head resting on his fist, and a permanent annoyed expression. He wanted to be anywhere but here, but he was stuck here. No thanks to the princess.

He couldn’t see you go.

He couldn’t see your pained expression as you were forcefully kicked out of the palace.

He didn’t want to hear your cries, how sorry you were or how your voice cracked with excuses.

He stayed looked away, fists balled at his side. When the door closed, leaving him alone, only the sounds of his heavy breathing could be heard. His chest heaved up and down, feelings of confusion and betrayal were strong, and his hands were itching to hit something. Soon everything he was wearing was getting too tight. With a quick rip of his shirt, he removed the restricted clothing, leaving his chest completely bare. He could finally breathe but he was still itching with uneasiness.

Not paying attention to where anything was, he punched walls, ripped down everything and anything on his walls, destroyed his bed, anything he could get his hands on he threw or ripped up. He let out his anger and frustrations with a forceful, belching scream. So much so that he felt his throat clench up and his heart went heavy. Fuck this. Fuck you. Fuck this party. Fuck everything.

Bakugou wasn’t even going to go to this party. It was to be called off. But did this princess have tricks up her sleeve. His father had already met the princess before Bakugou could say anything.

“The marriage must go on!” his father insisted when Bakugou tried to call off the party and the engagement.

“But Father,” Bakugou tried to impose but was quickly shut down and Bakugou had to seal his lips.

“Silence!” The King’s voice echoed in the empty halls, silencing everything around him, including Bakugou. “What are we waiting for? Let the party begin.”

And so here he was, the only one not enjoying his time. He watched as everyone around him was dancing the night away. Couples waltzing their way through the dance floor put Bakugou in a sour mood. That could have been you and him.

Bakugou shook his head from any thoughts of you. Why would you pop up in his mind out of all people? You were a traitor. A liar. A no good peasant who was using him and for what? Tch, he didn’t need you. In fact, he didn’t need anybody.

“Hello, my prince,” the princess said sweetly yet sarcastically to Bakugou, batting her eyelashes like she was so innocent. Bakugou didn’t even spare her a glance.

“What do you want?” he spat. And the princess did not like that.

“Watch yourself, your highness. We are in public. Don’t want to cause a scene,” she warned. Bakugou could only scoff at her.

“Oh, princess. Don’t you know who I am?” he asked and leaned into her, close enough where his breath was on her ear. “You better back off before I slice your head right off those pretty shoulders of yours. How’s that for a scene for ya?” The princess slowly backed away, clearing her throat as she softly touched her neck.

“I don’t want this marriage anymore than you do,” the princess said.

“Then call it off,” Bakugou rubbed his forehead. He had a headache now.

“You know that is impossible,” the princess argued.

“Nothing is impossible.”

“It’s for the good of both kingdoms. At least pretend that I’m her,” she said. But Bakugou was quick to get in front of her, blocking her view of everything and he was the only one she could see.

“Don’t you ever speak of her again,” Bakugou warned, making the princess shrink in fear. He hadn’t gotten a good look at the princess until now. She looked a lot like you. For a minute, he thought she was you. His emotions faltered for a minute and his heart did a leap, but it wasn’t until he really looked was where he noticed the difference.

He let out one huff and backed off, slouching in his chair again. The princess frowned and continued to sit next to him the entire night, frowning that you had made the prince feel like this.

You had returned back to the palace, with the help of a few guards who escorted you back the entire way. In handcuffs, might you add. With the courtesy of the princess, she had allowed you to return back to being a servant, but got demoted to lower servant. You would no longer be serving the princess directly. Instead, you would be getting all the hard labor jobs. And if need be, then an extra hand for the princess.

You didn’t know whether to be relieved or disappointed. Relieved, because you were still alive. The princess could have had you killed. But here you were, still working at the palace, doing the same job, able to live another day. She was being lenient towards you and you should be grateful.

But on the other hand, you were disappointed. Disappointed that you were back to living this life again.

As soon as you got back to the palace, you were placed to work. And of course, the girls wanted to know everything that happened.

“What was the Blood Prince like?”

“Did he try to kill you?”

“Why were you there so long?”

“Where was the princess?”

“Are the rumors true?”

There were so many questions yet you didn’t know what to say. You were not in the mood nor in the position to say anything about the vicious blood prince.

“Girls, I just came home. Must you know this very moment?” you tried to steer the conversation away.

“You’ve been gone so long, we just have to know!” one of the girls persisted. You knew you weren’t getting out of this any time soon. Just say something and maybe they’ll leave you alone.

“The Prince… is nothing like the rumors,” you simply say and put on your familiar servant outfit that felt foreign on your skin.

“What was the Prince like then?”

“Was he kind?”

“Or more vicious and blood-thirsty than we thought?”

Your eyes welled with tears when thinking back to your memories together and what could have been. A sad smile appeared on your lips but was quickly turned upside down. What could have been? What will never happen. You were no longer living in a dream. You were back to the reality that you are a servant. Here to serve the princess. Not marry a Prince. Become Queen? You couldn’t have pulled that off anyway.

Strangely, it felt good to be back to a place that was so familiar to you. You were back to roaming the familiar halls, talking to the same girls you grew up with, doing the same chores that was ingrained in your mind. But now you longed for something different. Something better than here. You now longed for a life that wasn’t here. After experiencing a world outside the palace, you realized how big the world was. You realized how much you were missing out on by being trapped inside the palace walls. But that reality didn’t seem plausible either at this point.

It wasn’t long until you were able to laugh, joke, and gossip around with the girls, getting accustomed back to your old life. You were helping the royal doctor grind up some medicinal herbs when you heard news of the princess coming back home. It was urgent that every servant was to greet her when she got home. So you dropped everything you were doing to join your place with the rest of the girls, bowing your heads down, waiting for the princess to arrive.

With one wide swing of the double doors, in came the princess. She walked slow and deliberate, taking her time to take each step. It was quiet. Only the sounds of her heels clicking on the ground could be heard. Her footsteps were coming closer to you and for some reason, it was making you nervous.

Step. Step. Step.

Until you heard her footsteps come to a halt and she was standing right in front of you. You gulped but tried your best to keep a poker face. The princess turned to you and lifted your chin up with a fan she held in her hand. She wouldn’t dare touch you with her bare hands. You had closed your eyes before your eyes reached the princess. You couldn’t look royalty in the face, especially not after what happened.

The princess took a good look at your face and let out an annoyed click of her tongue before harshly letting go and continued on her way. You could only bow back down and step back into place, blending in with the rest of the girls.

You had thought that you had gotten your old life back when returning to the palace, but you were treated more cruelly than before. You were demoted to a general servant, doing more labor than most servants. You weren’t supposed to be serving right under the princess. But she was calling your name any chance she got.

“Where is (y/n)?!”

“I want (y/n) to do this!”

“Fetch (y/n) for me!”

“Why is (y/n) not here!”

The princess demanded for you at least 20 times throughout the day, making you stop in the middle of your work to tend to her. The princess never really needed you. She just wanted you to run around, making you more tired than you should be. But because you couldn’t do your work properly due to her highness constantly calling for you, you were being punished.

You couldn’t count how many times her hand made contact to your cheek, the sharp pain was becoming regular to you now, because her laundry wasn’t done properly or you were being too slow. Your cheek was a constant red color with slight swelling. The other girls watched as you were getting smacked around and punished more than them.

The girls had to look away when one day. The princess snapped, making you lay out your hands as she used a stick to whip your hands. You wanted to cry out in pain but the more you resisted, the harder she hit you and the more slaps you were going to have to endure.

Granted, the royal doctor would treat you behind the royals back because you were so close to them, basically like a daughter more than an apprentice. But you would have to go back to work the next day to hide suspicion. And the punishments didn’t stop there.

Hot tea was spilt on you too many times to count, daily smacks in the face, more running around, being spat on, more beatings, marks and bruises all over your body. You couldn’t catch a break. And all you could do was apologize. Over and over again, you apologized. In the moment, you may not have done anything wrong, but she was the princess. Everything and anything you did to upset her, you were at fault. So you kept your head bowed to the floor, taking any punishments she gave you. Because you deserved it. She’s holding a grudge against you because you didn’t follow her commands to break off the engagement. She has every right to do whatever she wants to you. You were in the wrong. You deserved all the punishments. Because you were a servant, and that’s all you were ever going to be.

A/N: I’d love to know your thoughts and if you want to be added to the tag list! All are welcome!

Tagged: @superblyspeedydragon @melasnchz-things @animexholic @bkgwrites @sam-i-am-1025 @apexqueenie @katsukibabe @germfart3 @tspice283 @angie-1306 @bakugous-trauma @bakugousmrs @random-fandom-girl-24 @monetfatalia @triviajeongin @readingslumpfanfic @softredrobin @daddy-daichis @stardream14 @bevaevar @cathwritestragediesnotsins @luvtaromilktea @aaannaabbanana@i-ameri-cant @shyonigirichan @aomi04 @anime-for-live @maggiecc @cloudsgathering @backoftheletter @moshi-moshi-angie015 @sabrinakishi @thegirlfrom-rio

[starylust]

Disgusting.

✧ S A K U S A  K I Y O O M I ✧

genre: angst>:(

Word Count: 1479

Sakusa had been having a long day and grew angry and irritated. You didn’t notice at first but when you did you tried to help. So why was he being this way?

The day was long and practice was not helping Sakusa and his mood. He had already been irritated by the crowded halls now this?

-

Sakusa and you had known each other for a bit. You had been in the same class but never talked since he was usually by himself.

However this changed when the two of you got paired up for a project. After bonding together Sakusa realized you weren’t so bad and could tolerate you.

Months go by and you guys get closer every day. The both of you start to catch feeling for one and another.

You decided you would confess to Sakusa since you just couldn’t hold it in anymore. To your surprise he felt the same way.

Before you guys started dating though he had sat you down and talked to you about some things.

You knew he didn’t like germs and knew if you were in a relationship it’d take time to get use to the physical affection.

You were fine with this though as you liked him so much you were willing to wait for him. No matter how long it took you’d wait until he was comfortable with the physical affection needed in the relationship.

It took a week or two to get use to holding your hand but it was progress.

It felt nice to him and you he loved the warmth your hand emitted. This was a new feeling to him, a good one too.

Another week or two go by and you guys are now able to hug. Not for too long but for long enough for the both of you to get comfort from the feeling.

This was all new to Sakusa, letting someone in his bubble was not something that happened often. The only one allowed this close to him was his cousin or when he was playing volleyball.

It’s now been a month or two into your relationship and you’ve finally kissed! Not wanting to push him limits you waited for him to make the first move with you.

The two of you never cuddled or got too close for a long period of time but you guys were working on it.

-

And that was the progress of your relationship so far.

You had just gotten done with your club activities and were heading to the gym to watch Sakusa at practice. 

The two of you had a usual routine of whenever you were done with your club activities, you would head over to the gym. You’d watch Sakusa finish practice and walk home together.

Sometimes you were hangout after but it all depended on the plans you guys made before hand.  

Sakusa’s irritation level had risen as his spikes were sloppy this practice. Overall he was just not having a good day.

He was at the point where everything was triggering his anger and irritation. He tried keeping calm as usually though not wanting to disturb anyone.

All he wanted to do at this point was go home. Whether it was he take a shower because of the dirty germs crawling all over him, or him wanting to punch something he knew he did not want to be here.

Sakusa had been so caught up in his own anger and irritation he had completely forgot about you coming. This was definitely not the time he wanted to see you.

Looking at the time he only had 30 minutes left. He took a deep breathe in closing his eyes trying to relax himself a bit.

While he was doing that you were still on your way to the gym. You had been having a pretty good day, meaning you were in a more upbeat mood than usual.

You had just aced your test you’ve been stressing about and it made your overall day. Humming on your way to the gym you were finally by the doors.

This was the time where you usually just enter silently and watch and wait for Sakusa to be done. And that’s exactly what you had done.

Waiting patiently you watched as most of the boys walked out of the locker rooms. You were questioning where Sakusa was because he’s usually the first one in and out.

After a couple more minutes you watched him walk out. You smiled at him only to get a glare back.

Not really questioning it you went up to him and tried giving him a hug.

All he responded with was his hands in front of him holding your shoulders. Had he just rejected your hug?

He had never done that before ever since the two of you started dating.

“What’s wrong Kiyoomi?” You asked.

He just looked at you with a cold glare in his eyes.

He had nothing against you but, again everything was making him more angry and irritated.

Without saying anything he tried just walking away like you weren’t even there. You followed behind wondering what you should do.

You wondered if you should try hugging him again or doing something but you did not want to push his limits.

I mean it’s not pushing his limits right? You’re only trying to hug your boyfriend that’s normal.

Still following behind instead of you hugging him you reached for his hand.

He felt something brush against his hand and he swiftly moved it. Sakusa turned around to see you just staring at him.

“What?” He said coldly.

“What’s up with you today? Are you okay?” you asked worryingly.

“I’m fine.”

“Then why are you acting like that?” 

You were talking in a soft worryingly voice while Sakusa sounded monotone and cold.

Sakusa scoffed, “I don’t have the patience to deal with you today.”

“Deal with me? I’m your girlfriend not some chore.” Now you were starting to lose your patience. 

Just because he was in a bad mood did not mean he could take it out on you. And if he was going to you weren’t going to just take it.

“Well right now you feel like a chore.” He looked down on you like you were some piece of trash. A chore is what you felt like to him.

“Kiyoomi I just want to know what’s wrong so I can help you,” you said now a little bit irritated.

“Why would I talk about my problems with a disgusting person like you?”

You looked at him in complete and utter shock. Not once has he ever called you that when the two of you weren’t joking around.

“Excuse me?” You said back.

“I know you’re not deaf. You are disgusting. I don’t even know why the hell I’m dating someone as annoying as you.” Sakusa was now just letting everything out on you.

“Is that so? Don’t worry about that anymore than cause we’re over.” While saying this you felt you heart strain as the tears in your eyes started to fall.

You felt so angry and hurt that he would talk to you like this. All you wanted to do was help and he is just telling you all these horrible things.

“Fine by me maybe I can finally find someone better. Not that it’d be that hard.” Sakusa spat back loudly.

“Fuck you.” You walked out of the gym angrily trying to see through your tears. All the pain from those words struck your heart hard. Was this how he felt the whole time?

You took out your phone while walking and aggressively wiping your tears away. You clicked on the contact ‘Kiyoomi ♡ ‘ and blocked.

No way were you going to let someone talk like that to you and just stand there and take it.

On the other hand Sakusa was still in the gym just staring out the doors you walked out of. What had he just done? He didn’t mean any of that.

He loves you. He loved you the day you started dating. So why did he say all of that?

Sakusa now pulled his phone out, knowing you were too far away for him to catch up with you now.

You had always been the sweetest and most caring to him and he spat all of those horrible words at you for what? Just cause he was having a bad day?

Sakusa tapped on your contact trying to text you when he noticed the message went green. A panicked feeling started to settle into Sakusa.

He went on snapchat to check if your name was still there. You had disappeared. And the same thing happened with everything you had contact with him on.

Even though you guys would have small little arguments here and there you had never blocked him. Communication was a big thing for you.

This was when he knew it was over between the two of you. He pushed the love of his life out of it.

Here’s part 2;)

. ⋅ ˚̣- : ✧ : – ⭒ ⊹ ⭒ – : ✧ : -˚̣⋅ .

hi guys:)))

um this was my first time writing angst idk how i feel about this one. i have a few more angst drafts too. anyway thanks for the ones who comment cause those literally make my day<3. thanks for all the love i appreciate all of you a lot!

~𝓶ღ

[ordonianhero]

Apple of our Eye

genre: family/fluff/comfort

Rated: T- language and some suggestive subjects, injuries. (SFW still, just a bit of morning snogging.) alcohol use.

words: 4,189

Notes: "Apple of our eye' is a term of which someone who is very much are proud of. I got inspiration on this through a discussion I was having about Malon, Time and Twilight are very much alike and is know that they are blood related. From the Malon Arc from @linkeduniverse . Here you go: @wissi-my-little-cow and @that-one-loz-nerd

So the chain return to Lon Lon Ranch after Twilight is injured. The chain are thrilled to be back there and being able to take it easy while Twilight is healing up. It however not all that easy and lot like Time, Twilight struggles with being unable to do anything. However with some help, Malon is able to share that is is not the only one like that. Blood is blood.

Anyways, I hope all enjoy this little fic. Again I am sorry for typos and grammar. I attempted to correct along the way.

Cold, winter air snuck through the cracks of the farm house windows and door. Time buried himself more into his wife. Burring his face into her luscious fire red hair. Letting out a soft hum. Smiling softly. Malon let out a soft chuckle and a squeak as he pulled her closer to him, as he snuggled her closely. The resident rooster let out a morning call. The sun may have not been up yet and it was still dark out, but them cucoo's didn't care. Morning was morning. Time groaned and then swore in Hylian for the damn bird alarm.

He felt his wife shift. They had farm work to look after. She turned over and kissed his forehead gently. He peek his one good eye open. He looked at the radiant goddess before him. Her softly smiling at him. The red hair covering part of her face. He reached up and tucked it gently behind her ear. She leaned into his touch a bit. He shifted closer, gently kissing her. She smiled into the kiss and returned his kiss. He drew her in closer as they kissed. She let a soft giggle.

"are you hungry dear." She giggled.

Moving his lips to her jaw, nipping slightly. Gaining a quiet yet soft sound from her. She could feel him smiling to himself. Making his way down her neck.

"Hm. Wouldn't you be with my long absent." he hummed.

"Hm. Yes. But we got some chores to get done Mr. or we may be getting some live stock plotting our demise if we don't get to them." She whispered.

He moved to face her again, softly smiling. He leaned back in to kiss her.

"Hm. Five more minutes." he whined.

"Two." she bargained.

"Three."

"Three, then we need to get up fair boy." She chuckled kissing him.

He smiled into her kiss and puller her as close as they could before deepening their kiss. She ran her hand up his chest. He fingers gently touching old scares he has gotten over the years of his adventures. His hand made its way through her hair. She felt her body getting fluttery, she pulled away. Gaining a whimper from him. The cold could be felt as she pulled away.

"You're too much handsome, but it's time we get about our day." she spoke soft, giving him on final kiss before moving out of bed to go get dressed for the day. Time flopped on his back staring at the ceiling and let out a long sigh. He laid there bit before making his way out of bed.

-----

When Malon enter the kitchen, she nearly jumped out her skin. There sat one of the eight boys whom were traveling with her husband. Leaned over a book and a mug of tea to the side of him. He looked up.

"Sorry. I couldn't sleep. Felt best to no disturbed everyone. so I came to the kitchen." He apologized.

She smiled at him. "No worries dear. startled me is all."

Time entered dressed to go about taking care of the farm animals. "Morning first born."

Twilight blushed and pulled the book to his face. Malon worked to make some more tea. Time chuckled, then turned his head to read the title of the book which his pup was reading. It was a book about running a ranch and about looking after the farm animals. He wasn't sure why They needed to read it. It was in this young man's blood. Like sword fighting, this lad was a natural with animals of all kinds. He clearly got that from Malon. Like the cute button nose his wife has. He saw as their eyes raised to look back at him.

"Just some light reading." he explain.

Malon handed her husband a cup of tea, taking a quick look over twilight's shoulder. "mhm, light reading my butt." she teased, turning to get her own cup and pouring some into the rancher's nearly empty mug.

"Sleep?" Time ask, taking a seat to have his tea.

"Just a little." They responded.

Time knew all too well how poorly the pup slept. Well most of the lads equally suffer from demons in their sleep. Twilight shared Time's own poor sleeping habit. He would even extend his watch at night. Often Time and Twilight shared a shift. Malon took a seat near Twilight. She looked over at her husband, with a questioned look. Time looked back at her before clearing his throat.

"what interrupted your sleep?" he carefully asked.

Twilight set the book down, softly smiling. then picked up his tea and took a sip. "Not anything really new. I just couldn't sleep."

Time hummed. Malon, placed a hand on the youth's back. Rubbing it gently. "I am sorry. How long you been awake?" Malon asked.

The first bit of morning light was dotting the sky. "Hm, 'bout 4am." was his response.

Time finished his Tea and stood up. "How's the side?" He suspected that his injury from the dark knuckle from a few days ago was bothering him. Sure the pup was healed some, but there was still a soreness and linger effects from it. Hyrule's life spell came in hand, but could only do so much. The rest would have to be Twilights body healing it self and purging the infection that lay within him. Twilight hadn't given an answer. Which was an answer in itself. The elder sighed. That was probably the root of the pup's new bout of sleep loss.

"Well you're to take it easy today. The other lads can pitch in on the heavy duty stuff. If you get an itching to do anything, maybe help Malon out a bit." Time said softly as he walked over to him. He give the youth a soft squeeze on his neck. He then leaned over and gave his wife a quick peck before exiting to do the morning chores. Twilight had hid his face behind his book at their pda. Which gained a chuckle from Malon.

"Well with that young man, how about to help me with making up some apple pies. You do know how to do an apple pie right?" she was quick to ask. Knowing not all the lads were great with cooking. The last thing she wanted was exploded science project. The rancher nodded, closing his book.

"Ilia and I would bake together festivals and holidays." He replied.

Malon got up after finishing her tea. Moving towards the sink to wash her cup out. "Is Ilia your boo?" she asked, eyeing him.

She saw the blush move from the tip of his ears and move down to his cheek. She sense they must be something, but also sense they might not be.

"Well, it's complicated. Yes and no. I am working through some things. I don't want to drag her through that." He answered Malon honestly. He made his way to wash up his own cup.

"That is very thoughtful of you. However I sure she wants to be there for you either way." Malon stated, moving about the kitchen gathering up what was needed to make up the pie.

He nodded. "It's complicated still. It partly involves another person who left. whom I grew fond of. I doubt a woman wants to be listening to someone they love talk about another woman." He explained, taking the apples from Malon.

That Malon paused to look at him. She watched him fluctuate through a wave of emotion, before resigning to a face that she often saw on her husband when it came to the topic of his companion. Yup, he was very much like her husband in that department. However he seem to be a bit more emotional. He could try and stuff his feeling down, but like a book, they showed. Without even asking, the rancher had taken up to helping wash, peel and cut up the apples they were to use.

Malon grabbed a bowl for which Twilight can toss the cut apples into. Later will be used to toss in the lemon, lemon zest, cinnamon, nut meg, flour, and two kinds of sugars. Malon went to getting the oven to warm up. Than went about making the pie crust. She put the first fold of crust in a pie pan, then set the other aside. After the apples were cut up, She tossed in the ingredients and Twilight set to folding them in, coating the apples.

"Curious, is there a specific apple one uses for pies?" Rancher asked as he folded the apples in the ingredients.

"Well, yes and no. There are some better suited for the best tasting pie." She explained as she whipped up an egg for egg wash.

"The best is usually Granny smiths, but you can also use Honeycrisp, Jazz, Golden Delicious, Jonagold and Pink Lady." she continued setting the whisk egg down.

"Wow, there are so many types of apples." The rancher replied in a shocked state. Malon gave a chuckle.

"Like there is so many different berries." Explained Malon. "Okay, let's get these tasty apples into the pie. Handing him a spoon with holes to let the juices to drain. To avoid the pie going soggy.

She stood by, helping him along the way. Teaching the perfect ratio of apples to be laid up in the pie. Diving it up along the two pie pans. Once they completed that, teaching him how to fold the top pie crust onto the other. She than coated the crust with egg wash and slicing four slips to let steam out. Followed by covering the crust end with foil. Once the pie was placed in the Oven at 400 degrees. she set a cucoo timer for 25mins.

"Once that chimes, we remove the foil and let it cook for another 30-35mins at 375."

"Oh, I would of never knew that. Sure the cook would." Twilight chuckled awkwardly, doing a gesture she often caught her husband doing. Rubbing the back of his neck.

"That I do believe is true." she chuckled with him.

Together Malon and Twilight set to cleaning up the kitchen. Though she started picking up that Twilight's wound was bothering him. "Go take a seat dear. I can finish up the rest." She suggest, placing her hand gently on his arm. She knew how her husband was when it came to injuries. she expected to go full on Mama Lon on him. However he gave no fight, He slid into the nearest chair and placed his arm around his mid section. Holding his side. She could hear his pained breathing. Taking in deep breaths.

"Was this too much for you?" she asked walking over to him and crouching down. He shook his head. She gently rubs his back. He was hunched over and gritting his teeth. His face scrunched up in a pained look. She then Shift, getting up.

"Okay, Lets go move you to the couch and I can make you up a hot water bottle to help with your pain. I am not going to let you play tough on me." She stated helping him up.

They slowly made their way over to the couch and He slowly lowered onto. She took his feet and moved him to a laying down position. He rested his head on the couch pillow and closed his eyes. Malon returned to the kitchen to make up a hot water bottle. Only returning shortly. She shifted his hand and laid where the injury was. He relaxed as the warmth seem to ease of the pain and like as if he was a small child, Malon set to placing a blanket over him. Tucking him in. No sooner did she do that, he seem to drift off to sleep.

-----

Time carrying wood into the house, kicked his boots off before making his way into the living room. Where he spotted Twilight sleeping. That's good, he's getting a bit more sleep. He stacked the wood up in the wood basket before making a fire to warm up the area. Malon came into the room and leaned on the side of the wall.

Time walked over the Pup and bushed his bangs back, letting his hand rest there, checking for a temperature from the infection. So far nothing. Then made his way over to his wife.

"Well the animals are not going to end us. Sort of spoiled them a bit." He said with a smirk on his face.

"I am assuming you are making them plumb with extra carrots." Snorted Malon.

"well death won't come this day." Time stated turning to his wife.

"MMMMHMMM, keep telling yourself that dear." Malon replied with a smile, resting her hand on his chest and quickly giving him a peck, before leaving him to start working on breakfast for the lads whom would be waking soon.

-----

The apple pie scent waft through the house. stirring up the other's who had been sleeping. Time sat in a lounge chair reading the book, of which Twilight had been reading. The boys started trickling in. Greeting "Good morning" sleepily as they entered. First being the Warriors and Wild. With Wind trailing behind them. Next came Four and Legend and the last were Sky and Hyrule. Malon gave out tea and coffee. As they each took a seat at the table. Warriors however went over towards the old man and spotted the rancher laid up on the couch.

"When did he wake?" he asked quietly, looking over at twilight.

"He said he had woken about 4am." Time replied, not looking up from the book.

The Captain hummed. "Doubt that. I can't imagine he slept well."

"Well he's resting now. I am leaving you lads to helping out around the farm today. Letting him rest." Time stated, closing the book and setting it aside.

He pushed up from the chair and lead Warriors back to the eating area. where Malon served them all up a good hearty breakfast. The morning chatter was quiet.

----

Malon took the pie out once it was done, setting it on the rack to cool down. She heard a soft moan come from the couch, then a quiet whine. She made her way over. She removed the hot water bottle, that had lost its heat. Taking it back to the kitchen to warm it back up. Then returning with it, placing it back on his side. The pain on his face was evident. She felt so bad there was nothing they really could do for him. Maybe rub some pain relief ointment. Otherwise, nothing. He choked up a sob. She pulled up a chair beside him. Running her hand gently through his hair. Trying to sooth.

"I-I'm sorry." he sob.

"Shhh, its okay." she softly whispered.

"I failed them." his blue eye leaking of tears.

"You failed no one my dear. These things happen." she wiped his tears away.

"Now I am useless and a burden." He closed his eyes, more tears spilling over.

"You helped me with a pie. You are no burden at all. nor are you useless. You may be down for the count right now. However in time, you will be back up and probably giving my husband a few more grey hairs." She chuckled.

He stayed quiet, the tears flowing. "Sorry." he whispered, so softly it could barely be heard.

She continued to stroke his hair. "I don't think anyone is holding this against you at all." she explain.

His eyes opened and looked pained, "But I have disappointed him."

Ah. He hates disappointing her husband. "Honey, you are the apple of our eyes. He maybe grumpy or stern, but he is that way because he know how capable you all are. Even more so that you are our child." she bushed her hand across his damp cheek.

"But he is no saint. He has made some of the same mistake you lads have made. Come home injured and bloodied. Being a stubborn man and say he is fine. So don't be so hard on yourself. You did your best. That all anyone can ask of you." she continued.

The rancher sniffled. Than rubbed the tears from his eyes. "I will try to do better." he said once he dried the tears away.

"well best for you right now it resting, so you can get better." she said with a warm smile.

He gave a little nod. "Okay."

She brushed his hair gently and hummed a tune, which lulled him back to sleep. She knowing him to be an emotion lad, she knew most of his emotions were probably a reaction from being infected. Time had told her how he was before they arrived. Like he was fighting a really bad flu. Weak and faint. Unable to even keep food down. The most he had manage was clear liquids at most. Then started working on eating bread. Now he had started to be able to have soup. She then returned to the kitchen to start on food for the evening.

----

Wind squawked as he was dragged by Warriors to go wash up. He had managed to roll around in the mud and then proceed to toss it at the others. How he found mud hole, nobody knows. Malon had to chuckle a bit at the sight of her husband who looked a little less amused being covered in mud, that had sparked a mud fight. She shooed them all to get cleaned up.

"AAAARRRGH, I AM THE MUD MONSTER!" screamed the sailor as he was hauled off to the bathing area.

"NO, you're just a Monster." growled Legend.

Time spotted the Cub and Traveler trying to make a beeline to avoid bathing. He snagged them both and proceeded to drag them off with the rest of the lads.

Malon chuckled again. Shaking her head. The boys sure are a handful. However she enjoyed them all.

She went about setting the table up, Placing nice fresh bread on the table. A nice pot warm vegetable stew. Along with some drinks for the lads. She could hear squealing from the Washroom.

"THIS IS ABUSE! HANDS OFF ME YOU DOUGHNUT!"

"OI!"

"So, still want children in the future?"

"Well you lot sure are giving me a good practice run- OI back in the water you gremlin."

"NO- AAAAACK. HELP! THE OLD MAN GOING TO DROWN ME."

Malon then was startled by a soft laughter coming from behind her. She looked over and joined Twilight in laughing.

"Think we have a few grumpy soggy heroes in a few." Twilight chuckled.

"That we will." She responded.

---

Once they were all cleaned up, they came in for eating. All staring hungrily at the food before them. They all said a silent grace, then begin to dig into their food. Twilight carefully ripped his roll up and dunked it into the soup. sopping it up enough before plopping it into his mouth. Time chuckled as both him and the cub made a face and swayed happily.

"How is it that you managed to find the one mud hole in the entire ranch sailor." Chuckled Four.

"I dunno, being around pigs does that to you." Wind spoke, with his mouth full.

"Could not talk with your mouth full kid." sighed Warriors.

Wind swallowed, "Sorry. My bad."

Twilight smirked, "are you mama captain now?"

"Just trying to teach proper table manners, so none end up like you." Smirked the Captain.

"Well, I got better educate then a an owl. Apparently its polite to throw up at the dinner table when eating with owls." jabbed the rancher.

"EWWWWWW!" Wind squealed, scrunching up his face.

"Who." Responded Warriors.

"Who indeed." laughed Twilight.

"Oh get a room you two." groaned Legend.

"NO thank you, I don't want wet dog smell."

"That's wet wolf to you....."

"that sheds....probably has fleas. Old man, we got to do something about that."

Twilight snorted and glared a bit," That flea bag happened to give you comfort at one point. Careful what you say or you may be asking for new boots."

"You leave my boots alone." gasped Warriors.

"fine, your cape then."

"YOU WOULDN'T?!"

Twilight didn't respond, just smirked slyly and popped another soup soaked bread chuck into his mouth.

"DAD! He's being mean."

Time just shook his head and looked at his wife apologetic. Malon giggled and waved that is was fine.

"Guy, there's a lady at the table. Please keep your filth out of your mouth." Sky piped up, covering he ears.

"If you want filth...."

"NO WARRIORS!" everyone barked.

He just laughed before carefully sipping a spoon full of his soup.

---

Once dinner had been finished, table cleared with and dishes done. Pie was served with choice of whip cream, ice cream, both or none at all. Long with a warm evening tea or hot cocoa. The adults taking part in some alcoholic drink as a form of night cap.

Wind and Hyrule opted to put everything on their pie. whereas some just went one or the other toppings. As they all took their first bite there was a unison of "MMMM" at the table.

"This is delicious, Mrs. Mal." Legend stated with a big grin on his face.

"Oh, well I wasn't the only one to make it. I had help from Rancher here." She responded, with her hand out reached toward Twilight.

"Thank you Mal and Rancher." The lads all said together.

Twilight blushed and bought his cup of warn Chateau Romani to his lips. Time just beamed at him.

---

The Night started to finally calm down, as now everyone was fed. Sleep threatening to have them all drop like flies. Well one was down for the count all ready. Wind, who was all curled up and tuck up next to Warriors. Legend was going through his inventory. Four taking care of his sword. Twilight went to work on replacing the damaged part of his chainmail. Time sat next to Malon reading once more, while Malon was knitting. Wild was organizing his slate. As Hyrule and Sky set to patching up tunics.

Slowly the boys moved to go to bed. Soon leaving Twilight, Malon and Time alone in the main room, the fire still going. Twilight was so focused, his tongue stuck out to one side. Something Malon knew Time did himself. She smiled at that little quirk. she Lightly tapped her husband and pointed it out. He smiled back at her and nodded.

"I wish father was here to meet them all." she quietly spoke to Time.

"Oh I sure he would have a ball with the bunch of them." He chuckled.

The room went quiet again, the only sound being that of the crackling fire and occasionally Twilight sucking in air. Which at first Time just took as his pup's fingers hurting when dealing with the chain mail. However he picked up on the reason was the injury. Time set the book down and Moved away from his wife, walking over to the rancher. As he couched his knees made a crack sound.

"How you feeling pup?" He gently asked, placing a hand on their back.

"Nothing I can't handle."

There it was Malon chuckled.Father like Son.

"Uh hu, where'd that get you last time?" Time replied a bit more stern.

Twilight didn't reply. Time placed a hand over Twilight's, who was working away at the chainmail. Then slowly taking it away and setting it aside.

"We are not going to play this game son, you and I are one in the same. Stubborn to heck. However it's okay to let others care for you okay. Let me get some pain relief ointment on you and off to bed you go." He spoke softly to them.

Time helped him up. Twilight wincing once standing. Then begin to sway. Time placed an arm around them carefully and walked their way off towards where everyone was sleeping. Malon got up as well to make up a fresh hot water bottle, for it seemed to help.

Once the ointment was place and new bandages put on, Time helped Twilight to his bedroll. Malon quietly handed Time the hot water bottle, which Twilight gladly took. Then signed "Thank you." As Time was about to leave. Twilight looked at him, with pleading eyes for him not to go. He signed to him, "Can you stay with me a bit, just till I fall asleep?" Time looked at his wife and then back at him and nodded. He took a seat next to where Twilight was. Malon watched as he snuggled up against Time. Time pulled the blanket around the Pup's Shoulders. Malon left them be, smiling. Time quietly hummed a soothing tune. Lulling Twilight into a peaceful sleep. Then himself. Malon returned bringing a blanket to partly cover her husband. The sight before her was beautiful.

Good night my dears. With that, she blew out the candle in the room. Leaving with the only sound of sleeping lads.