#anyway. discussion very welcome!

[wackywatchdotcom]

Rewatching episode one, I noticed that when Ragatha and Jax are talking to each other about Jax having a key, Pomni flinches away from, and lifts her arms to protect her face and head, when Jax toys with the key and catches it near her.

I wonder if she is that jumpy around others normally or if it's just when she's in a stressful situation (like suddenly being trapped in the circus) what do you think?

OK. ok. you mention this. and ive never said anything about it but i have genuinely noticed this almost every time ive seen that scene. i think about it a LOT but i havent been able to figure out my thoughts on it. but i think about it genuinely a LOT...

(i went on a huge tangent abt her thats like. only sporadically related to this specific moment SORRY. it was hard to address this moment without discussing a LOT about her i feel)

for the sake of clarity in the event someone reading this is unfamiliar, what this ask is referring to is this:

with the way that she so quickly dissociates and HARD (not that most people Never experience dissociation or smth, but its the intensity of it and how quick into this situation she starts dissociating is like. it makes it seem like its smth her body and mind are Used To Doing) she REALLY gives off the feeling that she had pre-existing mental health problems (i struggle to place anything TOO specific with the limited information we have but i feel like theres definitely a few things she has going on) before she even got to the circus, and like she COULD just be a naturally jumpy person, but with the dissociation thing and general distrust towards others, it feels like her jumpiness is also related to these issues

while her being naturally nervous is sort of implied and clear (though i think the extent of it is exaggerated by the circumstances of the pilot in particular) there ARE a few other examples that stand out to me

i THINK this can largely be passed off as her just being on edge from the horror adventure, but i this is IS notable that she reacts genuinely pretty strongly to what is a relatively minor 'jumpscare.' it happens later too w kinger pressing the tape recorder

in general she seems VERY easily startled by people, and frankly it reads a lot like it stems more from people being near her than just things happening abruptly. she notably doesnt jump hard when the angel arrives- she DOES get scared, but she isnt necessarily startled. she DOES react very strongly to ghostly, but i think its notable that she seems to find his visual appearance frightening and debatably not necessarily startling, but thats not really 100%. the times she reacts the strongest have to do with people, which imo ties HARD into her not trusting people

episode 2 breaks down her distrust of people well, and i dont think its a self consciousness thing. it seems more that she just doesnt tend to find people trustworthy- if something bad was happening to her, she would sooner assume theyd let it happen rather than help her. it could be argued that its partially a guilt or projection thing with ragatha, but im not actually so sure. pomni seems to be ashamed of leaving her behind, but particularly through ep 2 she doesnt seemed Plagued With Guilt by the way she acts towards ragatha, which implies that the dream didnt have to do with her projecting that shame in a way shed assume ragatha would turn back on her, too

it instead seems to be that she doesnt trust ragatha just... in general. the 'im not a child' thing, while a legitimate problem for pomni to have with ragatha (i love ragatha, and from my place in the audience i know her concern is genuine, and that she truly wants to encourage pomni, and is trying, but from the perspective of people around ragatha, its not an unreasonable assumption that shes JUST being infantilizing and belittling), does illuminate how pomni is seeing ragathas attempts at cheering her up- that it comes from a place of seeing pomni as immature or generally unstable. that pomni is incapable of managing herself and needs to be coaxed. it implies pomni doesnt see ragathas attempts at help as genuine. combined with her dream, that ragatha would allow the worst to happen to her even when she was asking for help, makes it very clear that, even with the 'nicest' person in the circus, pomni just... doesnt really trust her

(it is worth noting that pomni DOES seem to genuinely want to help ragatha in the pilot. she DID try to find caine. but she bolts at the first opportunity. she does care about people, but when stressed, she operates on keeping herself safe first and foremost, that she needs to do anything to get out of a bad situation even if that means leaving someone behind- and with her dream, it does seem that she generally assumes other people operate similarly, or otherwise in their own best interest)

this does, of course, improve by the end of eps 2 and 3. the funeral, and ragatha offering to include her, and how the others talk about abstracted players (combined with her conversation with gummigoo, someone who she has to assure has genuine friendships with those around him despite the lack of a true reality for them to be based upon), are able to convey that oh, these people do actually care about the people around them. theyre being genuine. they arent just looking out for themselves and thats it- they care when bad things happen to each other. and theres no true reason for me to be an exception. which is ALSO why i dont think its a self consciousness thing, she seems able to reason that shes not an exception to the intents of others, so much that when she cant assure herself that others' intents hold her safety as any sort of priority as well, any trust goes out the window. she WANTS to help if she can, but esp in the pilot, as far as shes concerned, its everyone for themself when shit gets bad, including herself

ep 3, she seems more trusting of ragatha- she has neutral and positive interactions w her, rather than assuming a lack of sincerity in it. but its not just ragatha, actually, because even before her talk with him, you can see it in how she interacts with kinger as well

she initially tries to help him run, which isnt too out there- with how she genuinely DID initially try to help ragatha, it doesnt require her to go out of her way to grab him and RUN. she can run AND take him with her. she can help without putting herself in extra danger. but then she DOES go back, which is one of my favorite and imo underrated pomni moments. because THIS is what i think actually highlights an improvement in how she sees the others before her apologizing to ragatha or taking kingers hand. because she puts herself BACK into (percieved, since its not actual sure WHAT the angels intentions were her) danger in order to get kinger away too

(theres probably a case to be made that ragatha didnt seem to be in immediate danger- she was in pain, that much was clear, but kaufmo had ran away by then. but even still, pomni couldnt have known kaufmo would shift gears and start chasing her instead of ragatha that first time. and i dont know if she actually knew death wasnt possible here yet. which isnt very flattering for pomni but also people do not act in flattering ways under extreme stress, esp given a predisposition to not trusting others, which ill elaborate more on in a second here- not that pomnis abandonment was ok OR that it was like evil of her or smth. shes just a person. there is no way she was prepared to know how to act correctly in this situation, and she didnt)

theres also this

which is SUBTLE but highlights a genuine increase in trust even before their heart to heart. now that she knows the cast (save for jax, who she seems to react to the harshest, which is worth noting imo) are not acting solely in their own best interest, that they WILL consider the wellbeing of those around them including her, that their concern for one another is genuine (which is concerning that she even assumes that to begin with, which ill circle back to momentarily), she very clearly has way more faith in them and the idea that she should stick around the others for safety

and of course, ive said it before, but her taking kingers hand has little to do with her enjoying holding hands. its her knowing that, if kingers wrong, this is going to end very, very badly. if holding their breath isnt the solution theyre BOTH going to get possessed, and who knows how theyd get out of that situation. but she decides in that moment that her trust in the others isnt ONLY about looking out for them and believing that theyre sincere in their concern for her. but that she is willing to let the others put her at a potential massive risk. getting possessed was a blatantly immediately traumatic experience- and she lets kinger put her at risk of it happening again. THATS why she holds his hand, at least symbolically. she doesnt like contact. but she can brave something that she doesnt like, she can let him lead her into and through something potentially horrific, because shes deciding to trust him and the others, that theyre not just people she can interact with without fear of ill intentions, but that theyre people who she is going to coexist with. the best thing she can do for herself and the others is trust them and work with them actively

anyway that got off-track, the point being that her having to have these ideas instilled in her at all through shared experiences and trauma implies that, while these issues with distrust may have been exacerbated by the stress of everything, they didnt come from nowhere. these are problems she likely already had to some degree. its great that theres been improvement but that improvement directly implies thesse were improvements that needed to be made to begin with. and the fact that the person she gets repeatedly most startled by is jax. who, even with episode 2, she explicitly doesnt trust. in the pilot, at least, her distrust is more vague (i think the dream sequence in ep 2 IS what highlights it best) so her flinching from jax can be passed off as related to a general lack of adjustment to the new environment and situation shes in. but it happens again with jax in episode 3 (and, notably, she pauses afterwards but it takes a moment for her to relax even knowing its just jax), after shes adjusted somewhat, and after shes gained some trust with everyone except for jax (given his absence from the scene at the end of ep 2). it also happens when barons voice plays abruptly next to her

point being that imo, she IS naturally jumpy. she says herself that she doesnt handle jumpscares well, which somewhat implies this even outside of the circumstances of the circus. but with how she reacts to things, it feels like her general jumpiness is far, far worse when it comes to people she doesnt trust (be it because jax is Like That, or because shes not familiar with baron). the way i see it, then, her distrust extends to perceiving physical threats easily around people she hasnt ensured are safe to be around. she IS able to gain this trust in people, but she seems to automatically place the intents of others as being Potentially Unsafe from the jump, especially under stress. she can jump back from it fairly quickly for what its worth, but to be honest, it seems more like she operates on some general, everpresent level of hypervigilance thats just sometimes worse based on the situation

and frankly i dont think we know enough about her as of ep 4 to fully determine if there IS a reason for this. because someone can have a reason to be this jumpy around others, or they can just... be nervous and dislike people moving suddenly near them. combined with the dissociation thing, though, im inclined to think the circus did not cause this, just made it more extreme with more unpleasant stakes. there is hardly any time between her entering the circus and this happening. she hadnt even seen kaufmo yet in that very first example, but she was already on alert for a physical threat, and i just. i think about it all the time...

i think the main takeaway from all of this is that i think she isnt necessarily jumpy like that all the time, but i think trust is not a given with pomni, and her jumpiness massively depends on how much she trusts people near her and the situation shes in to not be a physical threat to her. its definitely worse in the circus, but i think it was probably still something present in a different context in the real world, too

[unproduciblesmackdown]

winston my quant of billions

[catominor]

sulla/metellus pius fic be upon ye...

[mossdoesartshit]

i have been scouring the cult of the lamb discord and i have been scouring the suggestions forums there and... well it has certainly been a time

so, opening discussion about ratau, the red fox, questline relating to that, and "consequences of actions" (spoilers ahead)(also i will get heated. this is not a hate post of any sorts, just me wanting to yap, you are free to disagree)(very long post ahead, there is a tl;dr at the end but it is not free of spoilers)

The red foxes questline works like any other npc, you give them stuff, and they give you pieces to get fleeces and such.

for his last one, he asks ratau, should you give the rat, you get a fleece piece, you get a follower form, and a little amount of lore by the lonely shack. if you do not, you get none of these, just a questline waiting indefinetly to be finished.

so why is this a big point of contention?

well, people wanting ratau to come back as a follower (a case i will not argue for nor against, i see value and merit in both answers) causes a stir, people discussing ratau dying in their game causes a stir.

"well its just the consequences of your actions"

so what actual consequences are there?

well. the knucklebones gang and ratoo wonder where ratau is, no clue to any of them about such ideas. you lose access to the easy mode of knucklebones (which, now that we have a knucklebones table at base barely matters since knucklebones difficulty scales with follower levels). you cant talk to ratau. you get a little awkward when ratoo mentions him and go "haha bye!", and possibly a sad feeling for when you do it.

but. but the game almost more rewards you than it punishes

the developers said that they wanted the player to make a "difficult decision" and this is why they wouldnt consider bringing him back, and people say that this is substantial consequence enough. but it does not change anything about how you play the game

"erm but the consequence is youre sad" for like a second. majority of players dont even find his notes, there are no LASTING consequences, just a small one.

like i want to apologize to all the ratau fans because every time i see anything about ratau, consequence people want others to be MISERABLE about him getting killed, and say that if you want to bring him back in a meaningful way of sorts (i saw an idea of having to fight the fox for ratau, ratau being angry at you and leaving and you get him as a follower after you apologize and get him out of all the bad status conditions and only then you get him) and STILL they get told "youre avoiding consequences"

i dont mean to be rude with this, but it will come across as such

THERE IS NO MEANINGFUL CONSEQUENCE TO RATAU'S DEATH RIGHT NOW.

ratau is little else than an obstacle in completion, or a character people project headcanons to, but there is NOTHING that changes your game in lasting and impactful ways, getting like 4 lines of dialogue, notes, and feeling sad that the lamb is crying is NOT a consequence, UNLESS you were emotionally attached to him, and you have VERY LITTLE REASON TO feel emotionally attached to ratau, he is just a tutorializer and gets barely any characterization, objectively more content for him would not hurt, he was the previous crown holder and didnt DIE for not doing things right by the one who waits? thats UNFATHOMABLY INTERESTING.

for shamuras sake, the RAINBOW WORM gets more consequences after you fight him, he is PERMANENTLY terrified of you, and even that is very little consequence, but its still more than ratau.

if we wanted to argue for consequences, its been suggested knucklebones gang would not let you into the lonely shack anymore, but my idea has always been to ratoo

ratoo, after some time would find out what happened to his brother, and when the lamb next enters his area "how dare you. you dare show your face to me after what you did to my brother, what you did to the little family i have, i should not let you use my kindness for those seeking refuge through these difficult lands for how you betrayed him

but

my brother would not have wanted you suffering either. and i cannot lie and say that seeing your face doesnt bring some sort of company to an old fool like me. so you are welcome here still. but do not mistake it for anything more than honouring my brother" and he no longer heals you to full health, only half of what you were missing

actual tangible long lasting consequence to what you did, it changes how gameplay works, you have actual pros and cons to weigh out should you look things up before playing the game.

tl;dr

ratau's characterization is pretty much entirely fanon. the consequences that are there are so minor a large part of the playerbase dont even consider them consequences, and as it stands hes treated as a much more important character compared to the screentime he does actually have. will not lie i did not hesitate in killing ratau off and that should not be the reaction to what the devs wanted to be a "difficult decision"

[sevens-evan]

nobody asked but an insight into my writing process for anyone who finds that kind of thing interesting or useful: i'm revisiting bees schnees fic right now because i don't feel like working on milf blake au and i would actually like to post this someday. so i'm rereading the whole thing to get into the swing of things and line editing as i go along. i come across this bit of description, which is in weiss's perspective when she first meets yang:

“If you change your mind, I’ll be around for awhile,” the woman says. “Enjoy your book.” She turns away. Her blonde hair, wavy bordering on curly, falls to her waist with the kind of volume and bounce that Weiss wouldn’t be able to work into her own hair with all the products in the world.

and i'm perfectly happy with it for the most part but i decide to change kind to sort in the last sentence:

“If you change your mind, I’ll be around for awhile,” the woman says. “Enjoy your book.” She turns away. Her blonde hair, wavy bordering on curly, falls to her waist with the sort of volume and bounce that Weiss wouldn’t be able to work into her own hair with all the products in the world.

because this is weiss's pov, and while kind is the word i would use if i was describing something and it's also the word i would use for most other characters, but weiss's vocabulary and way of speaking is a bit more rigid than mine is. to me sort reads just a bit more formal. both are totally functional options here but i feel like sort conveys weiss's voice better, even though she isn't actually speaking in this moment.

this is the kind of thing that i focus on more when i go back through and edit for typos and grammar and such. if i was actually writing for publication and doing multiple drafts my process would probably look different and more thorough, but when i edit for ao3 i'll make probably 10-15 of these changes per 1000 words, and pretty quickly usually as well. it's the kind of thing you develop an instinct for eventually, especially when you write the same characters frequently.

[hyp3rfixation-h3ll]

jsyk . if you ever get mad at traumatised people engaging with a completely sfw , non-k!nk / fe.tis.h related coping mechanism that sprouts from childhood abuse / neglect or just general stress, and label them a freak or bully them or anything along that lines, you're ableist, a complete cunt and i dont like you. this goes double for if you completely REFUSE to understand the concept of what the coping mech is and why its helpful. traumatised people dont owe you normalcy and we sure as fuck dont owe you an explanation 👍 and if you disagree w/ me you can piss off

[smokesandsonatas]

among the twst cast, who do you think will be the best in-laws? just asking out of curiosity, cuz i personally think that trappola fam will be chill, also i imagine them doting on their grandbabies, or like crying at your wedding day xd

- I go crazy when I receive asks like this, djsjhs. I included everyone and how I think their actions will be justified as to whether their families will be good or 'bad' in-laws.

Reader is termed as "wife" and as a normal human. -

Right off the bat, let’s start with Riddle. You and Riddle’s mother will never get along. She and her son have much to discuss anyway, and we know how Riddle even mentioned that the Queen of Hearts has a lovely relationship his parents could learn from. If Mrs. Rosehearts is strict with her own child, imagine how much more she’d be with you! She probably has a list of acceptable spouses for Riddle, so just imagine her shock when he brings you home—shock that quickly turns to rage when she realizes you’re magicless. She will be a horrible mother-in-law. Mr. Rosehearts, however, will most likely be courteous about your relationship with his son. In fact, I can see him helping you and Riddle move somewhere away from their house in the Queendom of Roses. He’ll probably attend your wedding, but Mrs. Rosehearts? Probably not. It will take a long time before Mrs. Rosehearts can accept you wholeheartedly, and when she does, tears will be shed.

The Diamond family is harder to gauge. Mr. and Mrs. Diamond would likely respect your relationship enough to make sure you’re comfortable. Cater’s sisters, on the other hand, might urge you to become their new doll—though not as extreme as they did with him. Overall, they will accept you as part of their family. And if Cater doesn’t want to attend family reunions, they’ll accept that, though they can’t help but feel a little hurt and neglected. Maybe they’ll even start to reflect on how they’ve treated their son.

The Clover family are lovely people! When Trey introduces you to his parents, they’ll erupt into cheers, baking you pastries and a personalized cake tailored to your tastes. They won’t care if you’re magicless; as long as you make their son happy, that’s all that matters. Mr. and Mrs. Clover will even offer you and Trey the chance to manage their bakery. It’ll be up to you both whether to accept. Overall, they’ll be great in-laws, and they might even make wonderful grandparents.

Deuce’s mom, Dylla, is such a girlboss! As a mother-in-law, she’ll be the cool type, letting you hang out with her at car races, driving trucks, or doing anything outdoorsy. She might even suggest that you, she, and Deuce get matching small tattoos. She’s very chill and will always welcome you with open arms. You’ll have no trouble getting along with Deuce’s mom—sometimes, Deuce even wonders if his mom loves you more than him.

Ace’s family will welcome you with open arms—and with a bunch of pranks! Mr. Trappola is a normal human, so he won’t hold your magicless status against you. Ace’s older brother, however, will endlessly tease him with some good old brotherly banter. Mr. and Mrs. Trappola will probably shed tears on your wedding day, making it a fun, sentimental, and most of all, enjoyable occasion.

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

The Kingscholars are royalty, so let’s be realistic: they’ll most likely not approve of Leona, their youngest son and second prince, marrying a normal human, especially a magicless one. They probably have plans to arrange a marriage with a fellow beastman from another noble or elite family, and your relationship could cause a scandal. But if Leona insists, then a wedding will happen. It will take a lot of convincing for the Kingscholars to accept you, especially since Mr. Kingscholar is ill. Falena will most likely be the first to accept you, either out of love for his brother or perhaps because he sees you as a key to fixing his strained relationship with Leona. Cheka, on the other hand, will love you! In fact, he might prefer your company over his lioness mother’s, though he won’t admit it.

Grandma Bucchi will shed tears of joy when Ruggie brings you home and introduces you as his lover. She’ll feel relieved that Ruggie has found someone who’ll take care of him—a lifelong companion, since she’s not as strong as she used to be. Prepare for a deep heart-to-heart with Grandma Bucchi, who will also show you pictures of baby Ruggie! She may even drop hints that she wants a grandchild from the two of you. Yes, she takes care of the other beast children in the neighborhood, but it wouldn’t hurt to give her a mini Ruggie.

The Howl family will accept you wholeheartedly. They believe that wolf beastmen like them have only one soulmate, and if Jack has found that in you, who are they to oppose? They’re not overly bearing, but they might occasionally ask whether you and Jack plan to have little Howl children. Jack’s siblings will adore you!

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

The Ashengrotto family will welcome you! Azul is their baby, so whoever Azul loves, it’s guaranteed that they’ll accept you too. It probably won’t matter if you’re a human or magicless. Azul has a way with words and will have nothing but praises for you in front of his family. Mrs. Ashengrotto might sulk a little if Azul chooses to live on land and start a family with you there rather than in the sea, but the compromise is that you’ll build a house near the seaside. Mr. Ashengrotto will likely insist on having both a sea and land wedding, though Azul probably planned on that anyway. They won’t be toxic as in-laws and will likely dote on you, but they’ll definitely want to take care of any little Ashengrotto babies you have. Sometimes, you might wonder if they’re a bit too attached to their grandchildren…

The Leech family will also welcome you. If you decide to marry one of the Leech sons—or both of them (polygamy isn’t unheard of in the sea; hey, different customs)—they’ll make sure you feel at ease. Mr. Leech, who reminds you so much of Floyd, might ask if you know self-defense. When you say no, he’ll laugh and assure you that his sons will protect you anyway. He finds it amusing that Floyd calls you Shrimpy, though there’s a certain air of intimidation when he speaks... Mrs. Leech, who reminds you of Jade, is beautiful and speaks just like her other son. She’ll ask you questions like, “My dear, how can you protect yourself when you are magicless?” with a smile on her face. At one party dedicated to your arrival into the Leech family, you saw firsthand how Mr. Leech made everyone sign...something. When you asked the twins about it, they dismissed your concerns and assured you not to worry. They’ll be cool in-laws, but they won’t disclose any personal business with you—only with their sons. No matter how much you ask about their family business, because you want to help, you’ll get nowhere (it's for your safety, they say). The Leech family will dote on you, but there’s always an underlying sense that you’ve been inducted into something much larger and deeper than just a family of merfolk eels. Sometimes they have unexpected visits to your house in land, and you had a feeling that Mrs. Leech might dote on you only so she can spend time with her Leech grandbabies...

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

The Al-Asims are so supportive of Kalim! There’s a certain sense of relief that you’re not associated with anything in their world, because they might worry that whoever is with Kalim, one of the richest men on earth, would take advantage of his kindness. But you don’t. Mr. Al-Asim will provide anything you ask for and will probably give you and Kalim a bunch of mansions, cars, and luxuries everywhere. Though they likely have a list of potential spouses for Kalim, the Al-Asims are glad he chose you. However, they’d be delighted if Kalim produces an heir one day. If Kalim chooses to be monogamous, they’ll accept it.

The Viper family will be glad to welcome you. Although they belong to the servant class under the Al-Asims, they won’t force you to serve them too. You think Jamil might have something to do with this… Anyway, they really like you, and they see how genuinely you admire their son—a mere servant in their eyes, but so much more to you.

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

Mr. Schoenheit will adore you! Because Vil is his precious, beautiful child, that love will extend to you too. He’s a different man as Eric Venue on set and as Vil’s dad in personal life. He’s quite strict, or so you’ve heard from the actual staff on a movie he’s co-producing, but the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. The Schoenheits are hardworking, perfectionist people—not in a bad way, of course. When news breaks that you and Vil are expecting a child, either Eric Venue or Vil will put out a statement asking for your privacy to be respected. Overall, Eric will be a good in-law and a great grandfather. Imagine how cool it is to have a famous celebrity as an in-law and imagine being surrounded by a literal DILF and the most beautiful man in Twisted Wonderland. Damn. It’s a guarantee your child will be as beautiful as their father. Sometimes, though, Vil gets a little pouty when you stare at his father for a little too long…

You know the feeling of a family getting together for the first time in years despite their busy schedules to enjoy days full of celebration? That’s how Rook introduced you to his family. It is lively! The Hunt family likes you! The first thing they ask you and Rook is how the family planning is going. They’re quite a big family with six children, so they expect the same for you and Rook. Mr. and Mrs. Hunt are adoring in-laws, but when you ask about their family business, they’ll merrily dodge the questions, much like Rook does, telling you not to worry. When Rook leaves for long periods of time due to work, he’ll vehemently update you every hour. In the meantime, you and Mrs. Hunt, along with Rook’s sisters-in-law—the wives of his brothers—will go on pampering girls’ days! They’ll make sure you never feel lonely or left out, even when Rook’s away.

The Felmier family threw a celebration in your name when Epel introduced you. Grandma Marja cried, seeing how much her grandson has grown. Mr. and Mrs. Felmier hugged you tightly and thanked you for being with their lovely son, and you swore you felt a tear trickle down your cheek too. They will be loving in-laws, with a tight-knit family that supports each other. Once news breaks that you and Epel are expecting a child, another celebration will be held to welcome the new apple of their eye. They’ll likely insist on a traditional apple-themed baby shower, and they’ll spoil you and Epel with home-cooked meals, ensuring you’re both well cared for.

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

The Shrouds, especially Mrs. Shroud, will be ecstatic once Idia introduces you to them. Mr. Shroud, while less outwardly emotional, will be overjoyed in his own way. Over time, you’ll notice just how much he and Idia resemble each other. It won’t matter if you’re not as tech-savvy as they are; Idia already has S.T.Y.X.’s management covered. Mr. and Mrs. Shroud will show their affection in small but meaningful ways, or surprising you with thoughtful gifts—your own helmet. If any negative comments about you and Idia pop up online, they’ll be blocked faster than you can blink. Kidding—mostly. They’ll likely expect a little Shroud or two in the next few years, and they’ll gently remind you of this as they’re getting older and eager for grandchildren. Despite their eccentricities, they’ll make you feel like a cherished member of their family, though you’ll need to adjust to their unique ways of showing love and the way of their work, ergo taking care of S.T.Y.X and their various shady businesses.

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

The Draconias, especially Grandmother Maleficia, will formally welcome you into the family. However, the atmosphere might feel a bit too formal for your liking. A relationship with Malleus is one thing, but marriage is a whole different story. The Senate will likely oppose the union, with Grandmother Maleficia caught between keeping her beloved grandson happy and appeasing the increasingly vocal pressures from the Senate and close-minded fae who cannot accept a human—especially a magicless human—as their future queen. The weight of these expectations will hang over your relationship, adding tension to an otherwise loving bond. The prospect of Malleus Draconia marrying a human would be met with significant resistance within the Briar Valley. The fae population, steeped in centuries of tradition and wary of outsiders, would likely view such a union as a potential threat to their way of life. Some might even call for extreme measures, such as political unrest or, in the worst-case scenario, a war to prevent the marriage from taking place. However, Malleus will stand by you, determined to weather the storm together. Over time, and with Malleus’s formidable power and influence, even the most skeptical fae could be convinced that this union could bring about a new era of understanding and unity between their worlds. As for Grandmother Maleficia, though she may seem distant at first, she’ll eventually warm up to you, especially when she sees how happy you make Malleus. And should the two of you have children (the Draconias badly needed predecessors), she’ll be the first to dote on her great-grandchildren as long as she is alive, ensuring they’re raised with both love and the proud traditions of the Draconia family.

The Zigvolt family is not new to interspecies relationships, with Mama Zigvolt being a fae and Papa Zigvolt a normal human dentist. She will support you! Her fiery nature as a fae will come in handy, while Papa Zigvolt's kindness will help balance out her energy. Overall, they will be happy for you and Sebek. Grandfather Baur, on the other hand, might accept you more easily than you thought—he is not a close-minded fae anymore. He is at a point of contentment, so whoever Sebek or any of his grandchildren chooses, he will be eager to accept them. Also, he might—or might not—visit you every afternoon (he's just concerned, not excited... he says as he hands you a crocheted baby comforter) once he hears you're expecting a mini Sebek Zigvolt.

Silver’s relationship with his father, Lilia, is central to his life, so naturally, Lilia’s opinion of you will weigh heavily on him. Fortunately, Lilia err Mr. Vanrouge is likely to be one of the most supportive and understanding in-laws you could ask for. His playful and easygoing nature means he’ll probably tease you a bit, but it’s all in good fun. Lilia will genuinely be happy for Silver, and he’ll go out of his way to make you feel welcome in their home. Expect to be roped into all sorts of whimsical activities—like trying out new (and sometimes questionable) recipes, or being part of his elaborate pranks. Lilia will also be very protective of both you and Silver, always looking out for your well-being. And if you have another baby addition to the Vanrouge family, Lillia will be the happiest Fae alive.

Lilia Vanrouge is an ancient and enigmatic Fae, while appearing child-like he possesses a kind heart and incredible wisdom. While traditional in-law doesn't apply to him (seeing as he is the in-law himself), he does need someone who can stand beside him as a parental figure, particularly for Silver and by extent Malleus. Lilia’s “family” may be unconventional, but his close bonds with Silver, Sebek, and Malleus make them feel like one. He’ll cherish every moment with you, appreciating the little things that come with mortal life, and your companionship will be a light in his long existence. Your role isn’t just as a partner to Lilia, but as someone who can guide and protect Silver alongside him, offering the same wisdom, kindness, and love that Lilia has given. If you and Lilia have children, they will grow up surrounded by love, knowledge, and a deep sense of wonder, with Lilia ensuring they never lose their sense of playfulness and joy. Should it end like that then Lilia can say that he has lived it all, and he can go on to the stars wholeheartedly. He lived his life surrounded with the people he loves, finding contentment at the end of his days.

[obsessedhoneycomb]

Mind the gap

Toto Wolff x fem!reader, George Russell x fem!reader

-> masterlist

Summary: You thought you met the love of your life and that you’ll finally live your fairytale with your handsome boyfriend. But sometimes the things from the past make our lives a living nightmare.

Warnings: age gap (reader x Toto), curse words, angst, implied cheating, George’s ex

Word count: 3.7k

A/N: I think I hate this one, I don’t know why, I think I can do better. But whatever, I may have let out my frustrations in this a bit too much - George doesn’t deserve to be written like that, but I needed it for the plot.

Any feedback is welcomed! :)

———

When you met George you didn't even know about his part in the F1 world. It just existed somewhere in the parallel beside your life. And he held you in oblivion for a very long time. You just thought that he’s a very handsome guy and you got lucky to meet him and call him your boyfriend. When he finally revealed his secret about being an F1 driver, you nearly had a heart attack. Without any other word he hard launched your relationship on his instagram one day and you two became official quickly. As you tried to avoid traveling to race with him, one day he just decided that you’re gonna accompany him. And here you were, walking with him through the paddock, all eyes on you. What just wasn’t on your bingo card was meeting with his last ex girlfriend.

“Oh, hey. What a surprise.” George laughed softly as he gently hugged his ex. You were just standing there in absolute shock. George even had an audacity to introduce you two.

“So, you’re the one George is talking about constantly?” Her squeaky voice rang through your brain, making your blood boil. You just smiled politely.

“Yeah. That’s me.”

You felt like a third wheel, it was so embarrassing. George discussed with her some of her “business” at the paddock, which you didn’t really understand because she wasn’t a woman in motorsport, yet the sponsors invited her for many events to speak on behalf of those women.

“You don’t look so happy to be here.” Deep voice with an accent spoke beside you. Looking up at the stranger it was no other than Toto Wolff, George’s boss.

You blinked a few times, shutting your mouth from the surprise. “Oh. No. I’m excited, really.”

Toto gave you a half smile, looking back at George with his ex. “I still don’t understand what he still sees in her. When he has you. If you were mine, you would be treated like a princess.”

Your breath hitched in your throat at his words and you couldn’t even speak.

“But anyway, I’m Toto, nice to meet you.” He smiled and outstretched his hand to you. You slid your hand into his, feeling his strong grip.

———

“I see you got yourself acquainted with my boss. Be careful, he's a real womaniser.” George chuckled as he sipped his coffee while looking at the track.

“He’s not married?” You asked, being curious.

“Darling, he’s divorced again. Can't keep it in his pants.” He rolled his eyes while he kissed your temple softly.

“Mhm… what about.. you know, your ex? Wasn’t it weird that she’s here?”

“Weird? No, I knew she’ll be here.”

“What? How?”

“We’re adults, love, we talk. But don’t let it stress your little brain.” He patted your head with a soft smile.

———

George took you to the karting club one day, he had some duties there to meet the youngsters, giving them some motivation. While George was giving interviews and signatures, you stood at the side, watching others racing on the track. In the distance you saw Toto with his son Jack. It was sweet. How he cared for him. It made you feel things you never felt before. He was the perfect father figure, someone to have children with. While you were staring, he spotted you, waving at you with a soft smile. You waved back.

At night, George was out of your hotel room, probably catching up with others when you laid in bed already and couldn’t sleep. You caught yourself thinking about the old man. He was your comfort thought. Idea of the life you won’t have. You always knew that you had a thing for older men, but you ended up with George anyway because no other older man was available. And George impressed you. But was it enough?

Soft knock on the door interrupted your thoughts and you got up to see who that is. Sometimes George ordered a hotel service for you. Opening the door, Toto was there.

“Hey. I saw George without you at the lobby bar and I thought.. that you might wanna go for a walk?” He was leaning against the doorway.

You bit into your cheek from the inside. What can go wrong, huh?

“Of course. I can’t sleep anyway. Just wait a minute.” You closed the door to quickly put on some leggings and hoodie.

At first you were walking around the hotel in silence. You felt your heart beating in your chest like crazy.

Toto cleared his throat, his hands shoved in the pockets of his pants. “So, I saw you today at the karting centre.” He started the conversation somehow.

“Yeah. George was there for some talk with kids. You know, to motivate them.”

“He’s great at this. Motivating youngsters and other drivers around. He’s really a great guy.”

“Mhm.. and you were there with your son?”

“Oh, yes. Jack. My youngest.”

“So, you have more children?”

“I thought that’s a general knowledge about me.” He chuckled softly.

You laughed a little, feeling a little bit more relaxed. “Sorry, I’m not nosy about other people.”

“I have a daughter and another son also.”

“That’s nice. Wolff’s clan growing strong.” You tried to joke and he actually laughed.

“What about you and George? You planning to have kids?”

Question that had my stomach turning. “Not now. Maybe in the future. But we weren’t really talking about it. He’s great with kids but I don’t think he’s sure to have one with.. well, with me.”

Toto stopped in his tracks to look at you. “You’re an extraordinary woman. Why not?”

“Oh, thanks, but I don’t think I’m the one with who he wants to have a family.”

He looked at me for a moment and then he understood. “It’s because of her?”

You nodded, fidgeting with your hands uncomfortably. He didn’t know where this came from but he just hugged you, and you wrapped your arms around his waist. His strong body felt so good against the fragile one of yours, also he smelled divine. Like home.

“Come on. Lets get back.” He whispered, his hand lingering over your back to walk you back to your hotel room.

When you said goodnight to him, he walked down to the hotel lobby bar, where George still was. He saw him there before. With her. The last thing he wanted for you was to be hurt, to tell you where your precious lover boy was.

“Evening, love birds.” Toto walked to the side of the bar, his tone bittersweet. George turned around to look at him with a grin. “Oh, hey boss. Do you want to have a drink with us? We were just talking about that Vegas night, you know when I won.”

Toto gave him a scolding gaze, crossing his arms over his chest. “I think you should be somewhere else.”

She cleared her throat, getting the last sip of her drink and she quickly disappeared. George just sighed and looked into his glass. “You really are a walking fun house.”

“Listen, George. You need to have your affairs solved or you’re gonna appear like a fool in the public eye. You can’t just sit on two chairs at the same time.”

George looked at him with a slightly annoyed look. “As if you were an example for faithfulness.”

Toto grabbed him by his shirt gently but firm. “Don’t talk about things you know nothing about.”

“Of course.”

———

You were sitting at the table in the fancy restaurant. Being invited as the girlfriend of the famous driver was fluttering but that wasn’t saying anything about your personality or what you did for a job. Looking at all the women around you, some of them you knew personally, some of them don’t. It was one of those events that she hosted. Looking at her face for the whole evening was another kind of torture.

As she was going through some presentation there was a photo of her and George together. The place fell silent with occasional looks at you.

“Whoops. I’m sorry. That wasn’t supposed to be there.” She giggled like a teenager. Your blood boiled like crazy. You were done. This was your personal hell.

Grabbing your purse, you excused yourself, leaving the restaurant when you heard her voice calling out for you. She managed to stop you outside.

“Hey, I’m sorry. It's not a big deal, dear.” She tried to joke about it.

“Look. Stop this. Don’t invite me anywhere where you are. I don’t like to look at your stupid face. I actually hate you. You’re a different kind of bitch.”

“Woah, girl. You think you’re better than me? Nobody will ever be better for George than me. That’s why he’s always coming back to me.”

“Coming- what?”

“You’re so silly, dear. So blind. Where do you think he is when he’s not around with you?” She smiled smugly. You wanted to punch her in the face but that would most likely end with her using it against you in the dirty way.

“I hope you end up in hell.”

———

Walking through the streets of Monte-Carlo felt terrible. This was supposed to be your dream, your fairytale. Your feet carried you to the yacht restaurant where some Mercedes event were held and George insisted on you not going with him but attending that dinner with her. You scoffed, shaking your head when you wanted to continue to walk to George’s apartment. But you bumped into someone. While you wanted to just mumble simple sorry and walk away, the stranger held you by your shoulders.

“Hey, you okay?”

Toto. Again.

You lifted your gaze to look into his eyes, you felt broken, vulnerable and disgraced. He just gently pulled you into his embrace, shushing you, while your tears stained his expensive blue shirt.

“Should I call for George?”

“No, please don’t. No.” You let out a soft whimper, wiping your tears.

Toto just nodded, frowning at the state you were in.

“Tell me the truth about them.” Sobbing softly, you looked into his eyes. He just wanted to say something but then he stopped himself.

“Please. I can’t live like this anymore.” You begged him and he sighed.

“They're seeing each other when you’re not around. I bet he’s even sleeping with her.”

His words stabbed you right to your heart, making your stomach turn.

“Hey! What’s going on here?” George walked from the yacht to them. His face mirrored his displease of his boss being so close to you.

“I just bumped into her. And she was crying.”

“Sure you were. You’re like a hero, aren’t you? To save damsels in distress.” George sounded bitter, trying to get between you and Toto.

“That’s enough George.” You finally spoke up, your voice hoarse from crying and all the emotions bubbling out.

“Oh, you’re about to defend the old man? What? He’s your new crush now?” George mocked you, and Toto was holding back to not slap his angelic face.

“Maybe he’s more of a man than you are!”

“Wow. That’s how you’re grateful, hm? To be able to be here? To even talk to him? He wouldn’t give a fuck about you.”

“George. Stop.” Toto warned him.

“Don’t tell me you like her?”

Toto was silent, looking at you, and your breath hitched to what you saw in his eyes. Absolute devotion.

“Fuck me! No way! And you! Do you like him?” George pointed at you and you didn’t know what to say. So he just continued his anger frenzy.

“I saw how you’re looking at him! For the gods sake! He’s my boss!” George yelled from the top of his lungs at you, his face red from how angry he was.

“I’m not looking at anyone! I hate how you’re always accusing me! When you’re the one who’s meeting with her behind my back!” You didn’t hold back, you were hurt from all the lies he was feeding you.

“Oh, so we’re turning this around against me now?”

“I’m just stating facts, George! Ever since you started dating me you couldn’t help but mention her. In every little ocassion you have, it’s always her! And I can’t stand it anymore!”

“You know nothing about her!”

“Everybody knows!”

George was fuming. You knew about his feelings, you knew you were just a plaster for the hole his ex girlfriend left in his heart.

“Don’t you dare to get close to him. Or I’ll make your life living hell. You don’t fit into this world. So back off. Without me you’re nothing!” George yelled, making himself very clear.

———

After that night you left Monaco in tears, heartbroken but somehow relieved. Finally you won’t be smelling her perfume from his clothes anymore, you won’t be chased by her constant presence around the paddock, by her shadow. You were free and you realised that this life is not for a weak. But you were strong, just not to pour your precious energy into that falsehood.

One year later

You managed to change your job, getting a better opportunity in the field and getting a higher income which helped you to have a more comfortable life. Hearing some rumours about George being back with his ex, you distanced yourself from the social media but some of your friends had some unexplained urge to send you screenshots of gossip and actual posts of him and her. Of course it hurt, you felt a little lost after the break up, George didn’t even have a need to call you or text you. Just like you never existed in his life. Maybe it was for the best, because you could move on quickly.

What was meant to be a fun weekend trip on the yacht in Spain you received for your birthday ended up with you standing on the deck, your eyes locked with the man you thought you won’t see ever again, his expression mirroring yours - shocked. Hot summer day called for easy clothing so you were wearing only a bikini and some light summer dress to not reveal yourself more than it was necessary. Toto got through the other people who were chatting around, not really paying attention to what’s going on around them. You internally cursed your friends, it was their idea of you getting in touch with some rich people to find yourself a good match. As if it depended on being rich. Hell. Maybe.

“I wouldn’t have thought that I'd meet you here. It's good to see you.” Toto stood beside you, wearing some beach blue shorts along with the white linen shirt, slightly unbuttoned revealing his chest. You held your eyes away, not daring to look at him.

“Well, same. But I must say that it’s refreshing to see a known face here.” You chuckled softly, adjusting sour sunglasses on your nose. He took in your appearance, you were still the same yet different, looking more confident and comfortable with yourself. And it was really attractive.

“How have you been? I haven’t heard anything about you from that day..” he decided to ask carefully.

“Not good at the start, but I feel great now. I have my dream job, finally paid the debt off for my car, really thriving right now.”

“I’m happy to hear that. You deserve the world, sweetheart.” Toto smiled, his little nickname for you making you blush.

“Thanks. That’s nice of you.” You looked over the free sunbed at the end of the deck and you looked at him. “What about resting over there and talking some more?”

He looked into the direction you were pointing and he nodded, letting you lead him there. As you settled down on the pillows you felt so comfortable that you didn't have to talk to other strangers. Toto laid a little further from you, keeping the decent distance.

Many words and champagne later you found yourself laughing at his jokes, his face was glowing when he laughed with you. Sun was getting down and you chuckled when he showed you some funny video of his son, your head falling against his shoulder. It felt so natural that you didn’t question it and Toto didn’t dare to ruin the connection you had. Showing you more videos he was prolonging the moment you were so close to him, to the point he had no more content to show you so he just put his phone aside just to look at you. Your eyes were closed and you looked so peaceful.

“You asleep, princess?” He whispered into your hair softly.

“No… just enjoying the moment. I’m scared to open my eyes because it means that this will end.” You murmured into his shoulder, it made him smile.

“I don’t want this to end.”

Turning your head to look up at him, your face held a serious look. “Are you sure? George… he will-“

“Shhh. Don’t talk or think about him. Just listen to your heart. Follow what you think it’s good for you. And I’ll be beside you through all of that. Ready to catch you whenever you’re about to fall. Because that’s what good men do.” Toto brushed his fingers over your cheek softly, his energy giving your soul the peace and care you needed.

“Okay. Just hold me. Because if you’re gonna get loose, I’m done with my life. I can’t get through another heartbreak.” Your eyes were full of sadness, he finally saw what damage George caused.

“I promise. I won’t let you down.”

———

Toto Wolff is married again! Who’s this mysterious woman? He won’t show her off, keeping her private! Is she one of his many flings of the paddock?

The news never stopped to amaze you. Sitting on the balcony of your apartment in Monaco, you scrolled through the news on your laptop, occasionally stealing glances at your wedding ring that you were still getting used to. It made you smile, for the first time in your life you felt truly happy, beside the man who cherished you and valued you for who you are.

“Ah, here you are, love. Working again?” Toto leaned down to where you sat and kissed your temple with a soft hum.

You smiled widely at your husband and nodded. “Yeah, just some final touches to my last writings. Then I’ll get ready.”

“Are you really, absolutely sure about going with me there? You don’t have to. We managed to be as private as possible to the point that it’s not a problem.” He squeezed your shoulder lightly with concern in his face.

“I want to be there for you. I’m part of this life and a little bit of it won’t kill me.”

“Okay, darling. But if anything upsets you, you tell me.”

“Don’t worry, Toto.”

———

Race in Monaco - always the time for the fucking rich ass people to show off their wealth to the world. And it was a perfect opportunity to show who the new Wolff wife is.

Walking through the entrance of the paddock, Toto held your hand tightly, his face serious and his brows furrowed giving everybody a warning look not to mess with you. Whispers went through the area, some people gasped at the sight of you two. The age gap was visible, but you didn’t give a shit about it.

Getting through the crowds and photographers you ended at the Mercedes hospitality, where some team members were already chilling and talking.

“Hey boss! Took you long enough to show who stole your heart!”

Toto just gave them a sharp look while you chuckled softly. Since the last time you were here, many people had changed, you saw new faces but also the old ones. Valtteri just walked towards them and gave Toto a few friendly slaps over his shoulder with a smug smile.

“I knew it’s her. I knew it from the first day I saw you looking at her. Also congratulations.”

Toto groaned but couldn’t help a smile creeping up on his face.

George was just walking down the stairs with his now fiancé laughing about something when he saw you standing beside Toto and Valtteri was pointing to your small baby belly.

He approached them, the silence fell over the room. Toto caught his appearance, his hand on your waist pulled you closer to his side and you just stared at George, awaiting his reaction. What felt like the longest while in the world, he just smiled softly at you, his eyes briefly flickering to your baby belly and then back at you.

“Long time no see, but I’m not surprised.”

“George- yeah. Good to see you.” You breathed out with your hand caressing your bump.

“I must admit that Toto is much more relaxed and calm, so thank you. I guess you have some magic to keep him like that. Also… congratulations. You deserve to be happy.” George smiled genuinely, he was really honest. You were taken aback by his words but you appreciated it. Your eyes fell to the side where his fiancée was waiting for him, giving you a look full of daggers.

“You deserve your happiness too. I really hope you found it.” You smiled amused, but George seemed to be oblivious to that.

“Yeah.. see you around.” He gave you a smile and walked away with her. Toto leaned down to press a kiss into your hair. “That went better than I expected.” He whispered.

“Mhm. Tell me about it.”

———

Kimi Antonelli won the Monaco race along with George in P2. Toto was standing under the podium like a proud father figure. You were in his embrace, smiling and enjoying his closeness, his hand brushing over your belly with a wide smile.

“I love you.” He blurted out when he looked down at you.

“I love you more.” You chuckled, kissing his cheek.

“No, I love you more, sweetheart.”

“Prove it.”

“I put a baby in you, isn’t it enough?” He laughed softly.

“Oh, yeah, indeed.”

The F1 world was meant to be yours. You just had to find a right way to live through it with the best man beside you.

———

Please don’t use my writings without my permission! Pictures found on Pinterest.

-

Tags: @chilling-seavey

[urdreamgirls-dreamgirl]

part one part two

there’s an incessant & incredibly annoying sound coming from the kitchen when eddie finally drags himself out of his massive bed & down the stairs the next morning. he’d just gotten off a long phone call with chrissy that should have taken ten minutes & ended up taking a full hour, only for her to come to the conclusion that he needed to be there when both teams met this afternoon to discuss the logistics of the joint public appearance she had finally talked him in to over the course of two very late-night phone calls the night before and dozens of increasingly desperate text messages. eddie was an asshole, but he wasn't about to ruin everything that he and the band had been working toward for years. so he’s already deeply annoyed & a little pissed off as he makes his way to breakfast & it takes him a moment of standing in the hallway, face scrunched up in confusion, but it almost sounds like… jingling.

he sets his mouth in a straight line, takes a deep breath, & drags his still-tired body through the doorway into the kitchen for breakfast.

a breakfast that’s being made by assistant steve, who’s wearing… the most hideous sweater vest known to man.

“what the fuck are you wearing?” eddie blurts out before he can even think twice about it. not that he would’ve, anyway.

steve looks up from where he’s cooking at the stove to glance at eddie before looking down at his own torso. “you don’t like it?” steve frowns, as if he actually cares about eddie’s opinion. “i know it’s a few months early, but it’s one of my favorites. i found it at a goodwill a couple of years ago, can you believe it? someone just gave this away?”

“uh, yeah,” eddie rolls his eyes dramatically to make sure that steve can see. “i can definitely fucking believe it.”

because steve is wearing the most disgusting christmas sweater vest eddie has ever seen. hand-knit, if the crooked & misshapen santa head is anything to go by, & absolutely covered in… jingle bells.

“come on,” steve says, returning to his task of cooking eddie’s breakfast. “surely even you don’t hate christmas.”

“i do,” eddie lies. “and this is a strictly non-religious household. it’s against company policy to bring christmas into the building.”

“what company is that?” steve asks, not even looking at him.

eddie scowls but doesn’t respond, noticing a green gift bag on the counter. “what’s this?”

steve turns. “what’s what?”

“this,” eddie gestures toward the bag.

“oh,” steve smiles. “well, since you gave me such a great ‘welcome to the team’ gift yesterday,” steve gestures to the pink cat collar eddie hadn’t noticed that he’d looped through one of his belt loops, “i figured i should get you something too.” eddie makes no move toward the bag on the counter. “go ahead,” steve goads, still smiling. “everyone loves presents, right?”

eddie, not one to back down when challenged, pulls the bag toward himself & stares at it for a moment, as if it might bite him. steve has gone back to plating eddie’s morning omelet for him, like he doesn’t even care if eddie opens the gift or not. eddie discards the green tissue paper & pulls out… a set of black plastic tongs. the cheap kind you get at ikea for 39 cents when you finally move out of your parents house & have your first ever apartment. clearly used, if the melting on one side is anything to go by, like whoever owned them had left them resting on top of a hot toaster for too long.

“what the fuck?”

steve brings eddie’s breakfast plate over to where he’s standing at the massive kitchen island. “i thought they’d be helpful.” he’s still, infuriatingly, smiling.

“helpful for what?” eddie demands.

“to pull the stick out of your ass.”

~*~

eddie had fired vickie for less. he’s still stewing on it, the insufferable way steve had grinned at him as he’d thrown the tongs across the room & stormed from the kitchen, leaving behind the omelet he’d actually been looking forward to. he’d retreated to his basement studio without a word, pretending as if he’d try writing or even just playing mindlessly in the hopes he’d strike gold, but so far he’s just been sitting in silence with his guitar in his hands, replaying the events from the kitchen in his mind.

the thing is, eddie knows he’s an asshole. and he knows it’s gotten worse since… well, he knows he’s gotten worse in the last year. since everything happened. since wayne.

he knows it & he can’t stop it, even if he really wanted to, which he doesn’t. he likes the power rush, the adrenaline, the superiority he feels when he’s nasty to someone & they just have to take it. it feels good, after so much bad. as long as he doesn’t really consider the feelings of the person on the receiving end of his ire. as long as wayne isn’t there to give him that disappointed sigh & those sad hangdog eyes of his.

because wayne had been his moral compass. wayne had been everything. and now that he’s gone, eddie has no way to check himself. no reason to. it just doesn’t matter anymore.

so he’s mean & he knows it. likes it. won’t stop for anything.

he startles when there’s a knock on the glass that separates the booth from the control room & looks up to see steve waving at him & then point down at his watch.

eddie waits until steve retreats back upstairs before following.

~*~

the car ride to nancy’s office is silent. eddie wears his noise canceling headphones & sits in the back seat, doesn’t even acknowledge steve when he jumps out of the car at the valet stand, just shoves past the security guard at the door & makes his way toward the elevator where chrissy’s waiting for him.

“hey,” she greets him, sunny smile on her face. eddie wants to say something biting, wants to hurt her because he knows he can, but he doesn’t.

“hi,” he grumbles instead & follows her into the elevator where she hits the button for nancy’s floor. he leans against the back wall, folds his arms over his chest & stares down at his boots.

“so like we talked about, his team it here. doesn’t look like he’s with them,” she tells him. eddie looks up at that.

“then why the fuck do i have to be here?”

chrissy sighs. “he was supposed to show. that was part of the deal. that you’d both be here to work out the details of the appearance.”

“if he’s just gonna make this a joke—" eddie can feel the anger rising in him.

“i don’t think that’s what this is, eddie,” chrissy levels him with a look. “i think he’s in real trouble with his label.”

“chris, i don’t need this. i didn’t do anything wrong,” eddie tells her, anger flaring.

“you started a brawl at a club that damaged twenty thousand dollars worth of property, eddie.”

eddie rolls his eyes. “there’s no way anything in the hideout is worth twenty thousand dollars. the land it sits on isn’t even worth that much.”

chrissy sighs again. “what’s the issue? seriously. i thought you guys hadn't even seen each other in over a year. i know he was shitty back then, but i thought everything was fine. how did this even start?”

if it were anyone else, eddie would just ignore the question. but since it’s chrissy, he takes a deep breath and says, “he talked about wayne. said shit that was private, between us. stuff that was said behind closed doors. stuff that shouldn’t have been brought into a fucking club in front of a bunch of drunk strangers doing coke, for fucks sake.” he slams his fist into the elevator wall, too angry to stop himself. chrissy doesn’t even flinch, too used to his outbursts at this point.

chrissy just looks at him & he can feel himself squirm under her gaze. “okay,” she says, like that’s all there is to it. and maybe it is, because she loved wayne too & she was there for it all. wayne’s illness, the funeral, the fallout. she saw it all. “why don’t you go home? he’s not here. we can do this without you.” eddie tries to interrupt but she cuts him off. “we won’t agree to anything without talking to you first. i promise.”

the elevator dings. they’re finally at nancy’s floor.

“fine,” eddie says, leaning back against the elevator wall & crossing his arms again as chrissy moves to hit the button for the lobby before getting off.

“i’ll call you, okay? and we’ll talk about it,” she says, before walking down the hall to the conference room.

~*~

the elevator ride seems to take forever & by the time eddie makes it back down to the lobby, steve has somehow managed to park the car and find another smoothie, the same purple as yesterday’s.

“let’s go,” eddie grumbles as he passes where steve is sitting. steve looks up in surprise.

“that’s it?” steve asks, getting up from the bench he’s sitting on. “i thought you had a meeting?”

“canceled. i wanna go home,” eddie pushes through the glass doors out into the LA sunshine.

steve doesn’t say anything, just hands the valet their ticket & they wait several minutes before the car is brought back around.

eddie knows he shouldn’t. knows it’s mean. but he can’t help himself. as he brushes past steve to climb into the backseat, he knocks the smoothie straight from steve’s hand, where it falls to the sidewalk, sending splatters of purple all across steve’s clean sneakers & the bottoms of his light wash jeans.

“oops, sorry. no liquids in the car,” eddie says, shrugging in mock remorse as he slides into his seat.

eddie watches from inside the car as steve stands on the sidewalk motionless in surprise as the valet scrambles for tissues. and honestly, eddie feels better than he has in days. he almost smiles.

[ms-demeanor]

Some people on the left are discussing whether the left is kind enough to me. Especially after the results of the election like lots of men of some demographics voting for Trump. Do you have any thoughts on that? Seems more about women should be nicer to men in some people’s opinions. And I am not sure about this discourse

i think that the social atomization that contributes to the radicalization of young men also contributes to, like, tradwifery and the radicalization of young women so I think that people are looking at a deep systemic issue with a shallow lens.

I don't think this is so much an issue of people being "nice" but of spaces making people feel *valued.*

The right-wing space full of toxic masculinity where people call disaffected young men "brother" isn't comforting just because people call you brother, it's because they're framing disaffected young men as valuable members of society who have been dismissed and degraded by the left. It tells them they're important and have worth and are necessary for the future of the world just because of who they are.

Of course they're getting called pussies and cucks and are being bullied in that space, but they're also being told that if they perform a certain standard of masculinity they are the future of their nation/race/species/family/etc. The toxicity of that space isn't something that makes them question their value, or whether or not they're a good person, or if they have something to offer the world. It is something they endure to prove that they are a member of the in-group, and that they belong, and that they do have value and are a good person.

So, there are people dunking on that post because it does kind of read like "i was almost eaten up by the alt right because women weren't nice enough to me" and to an extent i think that it was ungracefully worded. But i also think that it's addressing something that a lot of people feel in a lot of political spaces.

I do not think that whatever the hell we consider "the mainstream left" in America is particularly welcoming to anybody. I think that it very superficially values diversity while not actually valuing people. I think that it says "You are important! And that's why I need you to donate three dollars to my campaign to prevent the Republicans from harming [your identity group]! I am asking for your help as a senator, a mother, and a person who wants to defeat my opponent in two to four years."

I think that what a lot of people are looking for is not acceptance or niceness but is a community and i'm not at all surprised that people feel like they're not getting that from democrats/the mainstream left/whatever.

I mean. My real response to this is:

I don't think that the *actual* issue is that men don't feel welcomed by "the left," I definitely don't think the issue is women being insufficiently nice to men, I think the issue is that all of us are little cogs in a capitalist machine and actually there's very little out there that is saying to anyone "you are worth more than your productivity."

And it turns out that people will put up with huge amounts of abuse if the abuser makes them feel like they belong. People getting sucked into the alt-right pipeline because it is "nice" to them are exactly analogous to people who get sucked into cults because the cult provides community and affirmation and a sense of belonging.

Anyway, I am once again and as always begging people to put together or join any kind of at-least monthly meetup based on your specific interests. Start a radio club. Start a quilting circle. Put together a free store at the park once a month. Literally join a drum circle. Participate in a community garden. Start a walking club with your neighbors. Go to events at the library on weekends.

As a side note: there absolutely are lefty spaces that function by making people feel worthless or feel like bad people. They tend to have high turnover, short lifespans, and explosive fallout. These are shitty spaces and if your participation in a space is primarily motivated by some combination of guilt and self-flagellation, you should leave that space.

[tangerineastronaut]

hello can I get ateez members as doms? how they act with there subs in these relationship.

Dom!ATEEZ and Sub!Reader individual dynamics | ot8

Pairing: ot8 and their Dom!style Genre: ot8 reactions Requested: Yes w.c. 2.5k Warnings: BDSM dynamics, mentions of smut/sex/etc, discussion of punishments, dacryphilia A/N: what even is this I am so sorry this is so bad omg Please remember this is just my take. If you disagree, you're more than welcome to make your own! Don't take it personally 🫶🏽 Requests: Open (link below)

Requests | WIPs Masterlists: BTS | ATEEZ | GOT7 | Stray Kids

Hongjoong

Be afraid

^ When you’re bad (most of the time, u little shit)

Hard!Dom, strictest of the members

Brat tamer 100000% but doesn't want to be

Genuinely gets angry when you’re a brat, would prefer if you’d just listen to him

Punishments are meant to break you emotionally

Worst of all the members in that regard tbh

Will deny you things rather than physical discipline ~ praise, orgasms, affection

Wants you desperate and needy, it gives him control over you

Can forget to give you praise at times, does not get angry if you ask/remind him

“Ah, sorry. I’ve been busy, baby. Yes, I’m proud of you for going out today, I know you’ve been struggling recently. Did you eat at that cafe you liked? Did you remember to use my card? Why not? That's what it's for, love."

Blows money on you

Cannot stop buying you pretty things, especially clothes

Makes you try on the things he's purchased for you - usually ends with you getting fucked in whatever you had on last

Wants you to wear nice things when you go out to fancy dinners

Not very physically affectionate but will be if you need him to be

Will not punish you for being insecure, just wants to reassure you and make you feel beautiful

Sex is either quick and dirty or long and passionate

Fav positions are standing or missionary with your legs over his shoulders

Shower sex >>>

He's so damn busy there's not much other choice

Looks so fucking hot when he's got you pinned to the tile wall

Biting/marking - he loves to use his teeth on you

Don't you dare bite him back

Likes foreplay but prefers sex, is good at eating you out but would rather use his cock than his tongue

Is good at aftercare, though it's more of a standard, doesn't like pillow talk unless you need it

Will still make sure you're safe/comfy/loved and will do anything for you

Is rough, but can turn it off when he knows you need a softer side.

Seonghwa

Soft!dom

Gentle until he isn't

Strict, but not the strictest

Does not enjoy punishments as much as the others, but still wants to make sure you know your place

Does not understand the concept of being a brat, you're so good for him

"What do you mean no? Like no...what? I just asked you to come here, silly."

Rarely has to punish you anyway, he doesn’t have many rules

You break the rules on purpose sometimes

He’ll punish you harder if he thinks that’s the case vs you accidentally breaking a rule

Very snuggly

Will want you to just sit with him while he works with his legos

Loves to be held by you

Asks you for compliments

“Do you like this color on me?”

Will not scold you in public

Expect gentle touches and verbal correction

Hates seeing you cry, even if it's from an intense orgasm

Obsessed with aftercare

Will shower you with praise and tell you how well you did

"I'm sorry baby, I was rough today. Took me so well though, so pretty. Love it when you get on your back for me. Want me to wash your hair?"

Likes taking care of you in general, will mother you like his members (but worse)

"Why didn't you eat today?! C'mon, let's go to that noodle shop you like."

Sex is not super kinky but is almost always emotional

Pretty straightforward, wants you both to feel good and snuggle after

Likes getting head and giving head, but prefers sex over foreplay

Fav positions are spooning and intimate spaces like in a comfy chair with you in his lap

Soft kisses + him stroking your hair + thanking you for always being his good girl

Yunho

Cocky and playful

Neither soft nor hard, just likes to keep you guessing

Is silly unless he's in a bad mood

Likes to make you sit in his lap while he games

You like it too, he knows it

Will get pouty if you don't praise his efforts

Don't tease him while he plays

Fr don't

If you value your cervix, you will not tease this man when he's not in the mood for sex

"What's wrong, baby? You were whining for my attention, now you're whining that it doesn't fit? That's a fucking lie."

Size kink

Likes feeling bigger/taller/stronger than you

Expect to be teased over this, even if you're not that short

Loves taking selfies with you

A big puppy

Can be a big scary puppy

Doesn't scold you in public

Likes it when you know you're in trouble

Sweetheart but will do a 180

When he's stressed or in a bad mood he can be too rough

Sometimes it's hard to tell when it's okay to be silly and not

He will let you know

Breeding kink at its finest

Size kink + breeding kink = RIP ur ability to walk

"I know it's deep baby, shh...almost there..."

Likes making you beg

Loves to degrade you and then praise you in the same breath

Talks you through it

Very sweet, silly aftercare

Sex is not complete until you're a giggling, sleepy mess in his arms

Fav position is anything where he can manhandle you beneath him

Yeosang

Quiet dom

But not soft

Very strict but is not loud about it

Perfect brat tamer, but isn't one (you can't rile him up—most intuitive of the members and rarely rises to the occasion)

Most of his dominant side is only seen when you're alone

Does not scold you in public

Expects you to follow the rules and does not remind you

Goes straight to punishment

You cannot catch him off guard

Knows your moods before you do

Terrifyingly calm

"Is that how we're acting today? Okay."

Likes to edge you

Loves when you orgasm as soon as his cock goes in due to overstimulation

^ will continue fucking you anyway

Thinks you're prettiest when you're crying

"That good, huh? You're blushing baby...such pretty tears."

Fucks you sitting up, likes it when you cling to him and wants to feel your tears on his shoulders

Eye contact >>>

So fucking calm it's scary, truly

Like imagine you've fucked up in public and you know it, this mf just gives you the gentlest of smiles

He likes you anxious

Sex is deceptively rough

You would not expect it but he likes it to hurt

He wants you to fight back

That grip strength is not to be taken lightly

Fav position is missionary or in a car with you in his lap

Aftercare is pretty strict, he has a routine

Bathroom, water, bed, letting him hold you

Prioritizes you afterwards since he knows he can be rough

Wants you to tell him about your day as though he didn't just rail you into next tuesday

San

Very traditional dom vibes

Does not hold back on punishments like hwa

Expect an equal amount of praise and correction, heavily values both

Big on body worship, either you on him or vice versa

Will want you to kiss his chest and shoulders and remind him how safe he makes you feel

Protective, but not possessive

Best dom for daddy issues

Will tell you he's proud of you but fuck you into the mattress a few minutes later

^ while still telling you he's proud of you

Most fair punishments, typically physical but not cruel

Spankings, being made to take it on the floor, being tied down, etc etc

Loooooves tying you up

Huge on boundaries and safewords

All the members are but San prefers constant check ins

"How are we, baby? Can you still take it? Use your words, pretty girl."

Sex lasts a loooooong time from foreplay to aftercare

Like, expect to spend an entire evening in the bedroom

Only because he loves to warm you up beforehand with a few orgasms

Loves it when you orgasm

Edging is not necessary, he wants you to have as many as possible until you're overstimulated

Follows your lead during aftercare, whatever you need

"Did so good for me. What do you need from me, baby? A massage? I can do that. Love you so much. Did so well tonight."

Will let you sit in his lap while he works

Likes it when you tease him, but won't punish you right away

Makes you wait for it

"Hi baby. Remember what you did earlier? Let's figure out how to make you say sorry without words."

Fav positions are you in his lap or lying on the counter/table

Mingi

BRAT TAMER

and loves it

Will encourage you to act out just so he can punish you

Literally begging for a reason

"Please baby. Tell me no one more fucking time. The kitchen table is right there and I'm hard as fuck."

Mean and you love it

Is going to bend you over any surface when you give him the slightest inclination that you're about to act up

Effortlessly attractive, actually unfair

Genuinely does not know how wet you are simply because he's pinning you down

Lives for his own pleasure and you're along for the ride

DO NOT think he doesn't care about you getting off tho—

—and do not let that man's mouth near your pussy if you know what's good for your health

Addicted to eating you out

Mingi demands few things of you as his sub, but allowing him to ravish your pussy is a requirement

You WILL sit on his face and you WILL cry and he WILL hold your hips so you can't squirm away while he sucks your clit and makes you cum for the third time

Uses it as both a reward and punishment

That overstimulation will have you in tears

He does not care

Sex lasts a little longer than average simply because you have to pry him off of you

Impatient when it comes to you and your attitude

Punishment is always physical

Loves to spank you for misbehaving

Not the kinkiest but probably the most hypersexual of the members

LOUD sex

Aftercare is not really organized but still very involved. Expect kisses, a very clingy man, and cuddling

Loves you with your clothes on too

Can forget to give you praise, but shows you he's proud in his own ways

"You made this? Holy shit, it's amazing. My baby can cook??"

Kissing the top of your head, just because he can >>>>

Does not scold you in public—probably has not realized you've done something that warrants scolding

Is possessive and VERY jealous

Like Hongjoong, he knows when to turn it off if you need him to be gentle with you

Wooyoung

A fucking? brat dom?

Will ignore you for attention

You can't outbrat the brat

Big on silent treatment as long as he thinks you can emotionally handle it

Very touchy feely, likes grabbing you and holding you against him

Has a range of looks to give you to tell you when you've fucked up

Hates when other men stare at you, will absolutely stare back

Loves PDA the most out of the members

Does not care if you're in public, will scold you when needed

Will also tease you just to see you squirm

Is not above things like vibrating panties when you've been acting up

Loves to use his hands during punishment or praise

Expect handprints on your ass

May as well get them tattooed on there tbh

Whiny when he wants your attention

Can sometimes be too much

"Are you okay? Was that too hard?"

Likes to make you cry

Enjoys pissing you off since you can't do anything about it

Imagine getting fucked daily by your biggest opp

"Aww, are you mad? Huh? I can tell. Cry me a river while you take this cock, baby."

a menace, tbh

Sex is kinky af

DIRTY TALK mf won't shut up as it is and rambles when he's inside you

"Take it, baby. That's it, just like that. So fucking pretty. You just open those legs when I come near, huh? An obedient little slut when she expects cock."

Not super long sex but can happen multiple times a day

Possessive and jealous

Takes lots of pictures of you

^ Doing anything

"Hold still, I'm taking a pic. Can you tilt your head? Your toothbrush is in the way."

Aftercare is forehead kisses and praise, whining when you have to get up.

Big heart, loves giving you compliments and seeing you shine

Is infinitely proud of you and will not stop telling you so

Likes to do domestic things with you like cooking

Takes you on cute little dates rather than big fancy dinners

Do NOT let him hear you talking bad about yourself

Jongho

Loves being a dom the most

Similar to San, very straightforward, traditional dom

Unlike San, has a cruel streak

Basically a combination of Hongjoong and San

He feels the best when he spoils you

Wants you to buy anything you want

Obsessed with you fr

Wants to make love to you any time he can

Will pin you down but...romantically??

Master of seduction, likes you warm and ready for him

Takes you to fancy dinners and then fucks you in the car on the way home

Loves having his cock worshipped by you

Can eat pussy but prefers seeing your lips wrapped around him

Calls you good girl more than anything

"Did you take your medicine this morning? Good girl."

Isn't jealous at all

Doesn't have to be, he knows you're his

When he catches other men staring at you he feels proud like "yeah, she's mine."

Extremely physically affectionate but only in private

Gentlemanly in public, his hand is usually at the small of your back

In private he just wants to hold you

Loves picking you up

Will pet your hair and pull you in for kisses while he asks about your day

Loves your hair btw

Like, wrapped around his insane grip while he fucks you from behind

Dirty talk

"That's it, baby. Look so pretty like this. You've been wet all day, huh? Just waiting for me to get home and make it better? How many times did you touch that pussy thinking of me?"

Not super kinky, but sex is still intense

Does like to blindfold you occasionally

Likes it when he comes home from work to find you naked in bed, where you're supposed to be

"Is this for me?" he'll ask, sliding his hand over your bare ass.

Doesn't even get fully undressed before he's inside you, he's only impatient when it comes to you

Breeding kink but AUTHENTIC. Like, wants you pregnant (only when you're ready) will probably find you absolutely irresistible when pregnant

Aftercare is whatever you need but will always include water and cuddles

Very protective of you, scolds you for being clueless at times

"Why the hell did you take an uber? You should've just called me. Who knows what kind of people are out there!"

Will get angry with you but you're literally the gem of his life, he treasures you more than anything

[saphronethaleph]

Fluid, Dynamics

“So, uh…” Anakin said, looking around him. “This is weird.”

“Is there something wrong, Master Jedi?” the Kaminoan asked, concerned. “I was going to welcome you to Tipoca City.”

“Oh, I’m actually not a Master,” Anakin replied. “My Master’s busy, I’m just…”

He shook his head. “Sorry about that, it’s very unprofessional of me. I know I’m supposed to be professional, but being around this much water is very odd for me.”

“Being around water is odd for you?” the Kaminoan repeated. “...is there an alternative? I know Kamino is an unusually wet planet, but I did not think the difference was that stark.”

“I’m from a world where there just… isn’t water,” Anakin explained. “The only way we got water to drink was to pull it out of the air, and there wasn’t enough to go around.”

Then he frowned slightly. “Actually, uh… come to think of it, it isn’t all that far from here to my homeworld… do you think I could ship some water over there?”

“That is an… odd request,” the Kaminoan admitted. “But I must admit, we do have more water than we know what to do with. Perhaps we could discuss something like that after our main business is completed.”

“Sure,” Anakin agreed. “So, where do we get started?”

“I will take you to Lama Su,” the Kaminoan decided. “He will show you the current state of progress.”

Anakin nodded, absently, mostly thinking about showing up at Tatooine with a freighter full of water.

“How often does Anakin go on missions without you?” Padme asked, curious.

“It happens, sometimes,” Obi-Wan replied. “Increasingly often these days, actually. Anakin is approaching the point where he will have the chance to become a Jedi Knight, and… I worry about him a little.”

“Is that something a Jedi does?” Padme said.

“All the time,” Obi-Wan replied. “But right now, Senator, your safety is the highest priority.”

He frowned. “Though I must admit, I was expecting there to have been some kind of assassination attempt by this point.”

“You almost sound disappointed,” Padme suggested.

“No, no, it’s pattern recognition,” Obi-Wan replied, firmly. “You see, my missions with Anakin so rarely go smoothly. And if this mission is going smoothly, where the biggest danger we’ve had to deal with is mosquitos, then I dread to think about what is going on with Anakin.”

There was a beep.

“...like that, for example,” Obi-Wan added, taking his comlink out of his pocket. “What is it, Anakin?”

“So, first I want to say, I didn’t set out to do this, Master,” Anakin said.

“...oh dear,” Obi-Wan sighed. “That’s never a good sign. So, what is it that you didn’t set out to do?”

“So it turns out that Kamino was building an army for the Jedi,” Anakin said. “Also, it’s a really wet, flooded planet, they actually have too much water, I didn’t know that was possible! But I said that Tatooine had too little water, and since they had all those giant ships anyway I thought some of them could be used for transporting lots of water…”

“Sorry, Anakin, Kamino was building an army for the Jedi?” Obi-Wan repeated, a little incredulously. “That seems like the most important part of the situation.”

“No, no, the most important part is that some guy called Darth Tyrannus hired this bounty hunter called Jango Fett to be the clone template,” Anakin said. “And get this, he’s the one who killed that bounty hunter we chased, and things got a bit complicated… anyway, I went over the technical details and the clones have this weird chip in them and I think Chancellor Valorum might have been trying to assassinate the Jedi because the chip would have let the Chancellor tell the clones to kill the Jedi… obviously I told the Kaminoans to take that bit out because we didn’t need it and it’s way too much like slavery if you ask me. Anyway, uh, I’ve got the clones shipping water from Kamino to Tatooine for now, the Kaminoans are actually totally okay with it because they’ve got too much water, and I rescued my mother, too! I told you she was in danger!”

Obi-Wan took several seconds to process that particular bit of Skywalkerness.

Then he processed it a second time.

“…you have the clones… shipping water to Tatooine,” he repeated.

“Yeah, it’s going to break the Hutt control over water production and transportation for anything above the subsistence level,” Anakin said. “And it’s going to make Tatooine a way better place-”

“I have to interrupt you there, Anakin,” Obi-Wan said. “You said you rescued your mother? That’s very impressive, but you didn’t tell me she was in danger.”

“I did!” Anakin objected.

“You said you were dreaming about her,” Obi-Wan pointed out. “That does not mean you were dreaming about her being in danger. That’s quite different, Anakin, you must remember to use the right words if you want me to know something.”

“...oh,” Anakin said, and Obi-Wan could hear the shrug. “Well, anyway, I think there might be some kind of Sith plot involved too because of the whole Darth thing. Do you think Chancellor Valorum was a Sith?”

“I see what you mean,” Padme admitted.

[seokgyuu]

After your flawless job-interview, Seokmin hires you as the newest addition to his company. Just that, once you start, it seems like you’re not who you previously portrayed to be. Instead, he finds himself faced with mini-skirts, push-up bras and gawking co-workers, not to mention your absolute lack of work ethic. Obviously, he needs to fire you! Just that, when he tries to… you simply don’t let him.

Pairing: Boss!Seokmin x Employee!F!Reader

Genre: Porn with the smallest bits of plot, workplace “romance”, Smut MDNI!

Warnings: Morally gray characters, Seokmin is obviously reader’s boss and shouldn’t be fucking her, power imbalance, reader gets objectified a lot, but she enjoys it, reader is… acting very dumb (on purpose), Smut warnings under the cut!

Word Count: 3.7k

A/N: Hi everyone!! welcome to this little work of… filth! Making my return with a Seokmin fic just felt right (also I just could not stop thinking about this). Please let me know what you think with a reply or a reblog, it would mean the world to me!! also a big thanks to @shadowkoo for making this AMAZING banner and to @bitchlessdino for beta-ing!!

tagging: @okiedokrie, @inkchwe, @shinysobi, @gyuhanniescarat, @haologram, @beomcoups @wongyuseokie, @the-boy-meets-evil, @multi-kpop-fanfics (just some of my fellow dk enjoyers)

Smut Warnings: oral (m receiving), face fucking, praise (good girl, etc.), degradation (whore, etc.), unprotected sex, titjob, breeding, usage of the word “Sir” in a sexual context, tell me if i missed anything!

His phone rings. The Harry Potter title music is playing, letting him know it’s his sister calling. He can’t pick up, or well, no, he can, considering his hands are free, but he probably shouldn’t.

Having talks with his employees about having to let them go is Seokmin’s least favorite thing about being the boss. He never wants anyone to feel like they weren’t good enough or couldn’t live up to any expectations, but sometimes… sometimes it was inevitable.

Like with you.

When you had first walked into your interview, you impressed him with your sharp tongue and your witty humor. Your resume looked perfect for the job, and your previous experience was exactly what he needed. He hired you the following week and deemed his decision a good one - until you showed up for your first day.

See, before anything else, Seokmin is simply just a man. A man with eyes and needs and desires.

The mini skirt barely covered your backside, showed off your legs and those perfect thighs you had hidden from sight before. Your dress shirt would have been fine for the office if only it wasn’t… half open. Or at least open enough to see your breasts almost falling out of your push-up bra.

He knew back then that he should say something. Tell you that this wasn’t appropriate to wear to work. But he didn’t. For the same reason, his mostly male staff began coming into work more punctually, more eagerly and stayed for even longer hours.

It was a mistake, he thinks now, not to say anything to you on your first day. Or any other day after that.

A mistake or the single best decision he had ever made.

Truth be told, he’d never called you into his office to discuss his decision to let you go if it was only about the clothes (or lack thereof) you wore to work. No, he was fine with the clothes, more than fine, actually, if you took just one look at the amount of tissues discarded in his office’s trash can.

But… you lacked certain skills he had thought you’d easily have, considering your previous jobs. You struggled doing, in his opinion, the most basic tasks, and more or less let the others do the work for you. The work he paid you to do. Instead, you sat at your desk all day and played Solitaire or scrolled on Instagram.

The two of you almost never interacted, mainly because he was scared to say the wrong thing or stare too long at your breasts he couldn’t stop thinking about anyway. When it did happen that he had to talk to you, it mostly went with him going back to his office with a raging boner and a guilty conscience.

One time, he brought back some prints from the copy room, only to find out you had been the one to print them. When he asked around the room and you were the one to raise your hand and get up from your chair he almost choked on his spit. You made your way over him, your tight dress hugging every single one of your curves, the slit in the side showing off where your stockings began, the neckline down far enough for him to see the lacy material of your bra once again.

“Thank you, Mr. Lee, Sir,” you smiled at him, your fingers touching his when you reached for the pile of papers. He felt like you shot him and as a result, he shot a huge load of cum into one of his tissues when he was back in his office.

Then, he met you at the coffee maker one time, witnessing you eat a fucking banana in one god damned bite. He couldn’t believe his eyes when you basically deepthroated the fruit all while looking directly into his eyes. He popped a boner right then and there.

All in all, it was safe to say the woman he had met in the interview was gone and he had absolutely no clue why or how he had let you fool him that day you met.

A part of him was angry at himself for letting it get this far, but he couldn’t deny that with every glimpse of your exposed ass and tits, with every encounter like the prints or the banana, he decided to give you one last chance to prove yourself. So far he had given you about 151 chances and you’d screwed up all of them.

Which is how he ended up calling you into his office.

Which is how you ended up sitting in front of his desk on one of the comfortable dark red armchairs, your legs crossed, yet another mini-skirt rising up far enough for Seokmin to at least imagine he can smell you. The shirt you were wearing was tight and cropped and your blazer was lazily hung over the back of the armchair.

“So, Y/N,” he began, shifting on his seat and trying very hard not to look at your tits, “do you have any idea why I called you in here?”

You shook your head no.

“No, sir, I don’t. Did I do something wrong?”

Sir. Oh good lord, Seokmin had to swallow down the pathetic moan he feels creeping up his throat.

“Well,” he cleared his throat, “I have noticed that you’ve been handing your work off to Chan a lot. Soonyoung as well, and while I understand you’re the newest employee, you have been here for almost five months now, Y/N, and I did expect you to already, you know, do at least a certain amount of work by yourself.”

Your eyes widened the more he spoke, your pout prominent once he finished.

“I’m sorry, Sir, truly! They always offered to help me and I just- I just didn’t want to disappoint them,” your voice strained, almost sounding like you were about to start crying. Seokmin felt his heart speed up.

“I understand that. But still - it must make sense to you that-,”

You jumping up from your chair made him stop mid sentence. He watched how you stalked over to him, your big eyes staring him down with something he couldn’t pinpoint even if he tried.

“It does make sense, Sir, and I want to apologize. I can do better, please don’t fire me.”

Seokmin was frozen in his chair, his seated figure looking up at you, almost panicking when he realized how close you were. If he raised his hand now, he could touch your thigh, could let it slip higher, could-

“Please, Mr. Lee, I’d do anything to keep this job.”

Which is how we get to… now.

His phone is still ringing on the desk, but he’s still nowhere near answering it. He is too focused on your mouth around his rock-hard cock, on the way you look up at him with watery eyes, on the way your hand is fondling his aching balls.

You dropping to your knees might have been the single most hottest thing he has ever seen before. Or well, maybe this right now tops it. Your tongue is flat against his shaft, dragging it along his veins, licking up all the precum that doesn’t directly land in your mouth. You suck on his tip, tease his slit, and moan when you take him all the way.

And Seokmin? He thinks he might have just entered heaven. His hands are itching to touch you, to push you down and fuck up, to lose control, but he doesn’t. Instead, he watches you with his mouth dropped, with his heart going at triple speed in his chest.

This is wrong. So, so wrong! He shouldn’t let you suck his cock as a way to keep your job, for god’s sake!

Once his tip crashes against the back of your throat, his mind goes blank, and all the thoughts from before disappear. They make room for new thoughts instead, thoughts that finally allow him to do what he wanted to from the second you had walked in on your first day.

The groan he lets out causes you to drip into your panties. And the way his hands now find the back of your head almost makes you come. Your eyes roll back for a second, before you bring them back to look at your boss.

Your extremely hot, perfect boss who took so fucking long to bring you into his office. Who could not take a hint at-fucking-all.

He begins to thrust up into your throat, letting out moans you wish you could record and replay as many times as you wished. His cock is big, just as big as you had hoped it to be. He’s veiny and perfect and his angry red tip is going to become your favorite thing to suck on. He tastes salty and sweet and bitter at the same time, melts on your tongue, and gets you to clench around absolutely nothing.

“Fuck,” he cries out when he picks up his speed, nails digging into your scalp as he continues his hard and fast thrusts, his cock beginning to twitch, his balls tightening dangerously. You need him, want him and almost demand him to come down your throat. To give you everything he has to offer. You press your tongue harder against his shaft, cheeks hollowed out, and you can feel his orgasm nearing with every passing second.

“I’m gonna- fu-fuck, I’m gonna c-come!” His cry is almost taking you over the edge too.

Seokmin sees red and white at the same time, opens his eyes, and stares down at you with his pupils blown and his cock finally emptying his seed inside your awaiting mouth. It almost breaks him, seeing how you swallow all of his cum like a pro, never breaking eye contact.

Breathless, Seokmin slowly gets down from his high, watching how you lick up his cock, your eyes twinkling with mischief, giving his tip a small kiss before finally leaning back, batting your eyelashes.

“So tasty, Mr. Lee. Now, should I get back to work?”

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

It kind of becomes a thing. At the beginning, Seokmin calls you into his office and you suck his cock, make him come, go back to work. All while still wearing your skimpy outfits to work and doing the minimum requirements to not be a complete waste of Seokmin’s money. Even though he figures with a cold shiver running down his spine, it seems like he’s paying you for something totally different now.

You’re enjoying this to the fullest, having a right out blast. Not just because you get to have Seokmin fuck your throat every other day, no, but because of how he looks at you. When you met him that first day at the interview, you already knew you wanted him. Knew he was going to be your next little project. So far you had never failed, and you sure as hell weren’t going to start now.

Working at the company for five months hadn’t exactly been your plan, though. Five months until he finally called you into his office. Five months of you choosing the most outrageous outfits, knowing every single man in that office wanted a taste of you, but only wanting one of them to actually act on it.

“Holy fucking hell, yeah, just- just like that,” he’s leaning against the wall behind his desk, you back on your knees, his cock hitting the soft inside of your cheek over and over again. He’s holding onto your hair with one hand while the other is pressed against the wall next to him. You lick and suck and fuck his cock against your cheek, drool running down your chin. You’re painfully wet, throbbing, and needing him to finally put his cock in you.

By now (3 weeks after your little blowjob-job started) you know his tells, can sense when he’s about to come. So, when you hear that first little noise, you let go of his cock with a plop and get up. Seokmin’s eyes open and he looks at you, visibly confused.

“Wha-,” he begins, but you just take a step forward and crush your lips against his, your hands grabbing his face.

For the first few seconds, Seokmin doesn’t really grasp the situation. You’re kissing him. He begins to melt, his hands somehow finding their way to your waist and when you lead him back, suddenly seated on his desk, his mind goes blank. You want him to fuck you. Want his cock to go inside that probably sweet tasting pussy of yours. He moans into your mouth.

“Take me, Mr. Lee, please, need your cock in me, need you to fuck me,” you whisper into his ear, biting his earlobe after and sighing in relief when he immediately moves to get your panties off of you.

“Fuck, fuck, you’re so hot.” He kisses you again, wild and uncontrolled, your panties now landing on the floor. You part your legs and grab his cock, bringing it to your awaiting entrance. There is no stopping the moan that escapes you once his tip slips in, your teeth sinking into his bottom lip harshly. He licks over your teeth, feels his mind fog up, no thoughts just you, you, you.

Then, he’s fully inside of you. Twitches, groans, kisses you harder. And fucks you like a god-damned beast.

The pace he sets is brutal and you’re lucky it’s after hours so no one is at the office anymore. They for sure would have heard the way the desk is bouncing against the floor with every thrust as well as your high pitched moans, and Seokmin’s low growls.

He fucks you like he owns you and you live for it. His cock drags along your walls, fills you like he was made for you, hits your sweet spot over and over again as if he’d done this thousand times before.

“Fuck, yes!” You basically scream, your body falling backward, only his strong hands holding you up as he speeds up once more.

“God, shit, how are you so tight, baby?” He moves to kiss your neck, licks over the salty skin, revels in your taste, in the way you shiver under his touch. You wanna scream and cry and mark his body with your mouth and nails - and so you begin to pull on the hem of his shirt, which he gladly helps you to take off completely.

He’s built like a god. Wide shoulders, bulked up arms, abs like they were painted on. You let your nails drag over his torso, finally sliding them to his strong, muscular back. When he pushes into you even more, his lips not getting enough of your own, you dig into his flesh and hear him hiss. Still, he doesn’t stop. If anything, he goes even harder. Fucks you til you scream his name while experiencing the most intense orgasm of your life, milking his cock of all he had, cum filling your pussy to the brim.

After that it spirals.

He fucks you every chance he gets. He is addicted to you and your pussy. Whenever he needs you, he gets to have you.

He bends you over his desk during work hours, drilling into your pussy like a mad man while pressing his hand over your mouth to make sure no one notices. He comes inside you and stuffs it all back in there with his fingers, pulls your panties back up and sends you out to continue your work day as before.

When lunch time comes around, you meet him in the building’s cafeteria and he drags you to the nearest supply closet to fuck your mouth and then your cunt, telling you what a good little slut you are and how well you always take him.

He sends you pictures of his hard cock after work, begging you to come to his place and bounce on him - but you never do. It’s a game for both of you. No fucking outside of work, no dates or anything like that. He gets to keep fucking you and you get to keep your job - easy as that.

Just that… you’re not really bad at your job. Seokmin is slow to figure that one out, you realize.

When your seventh month at the company begins, he is so focused on getting his cock inside of you, he doesn’t even notice you’ve stopped handing off your assignments to your colleagues. You’ve actually grown quite fond of this job and the team - and Seokmin for that matter. Not that you want to admit that to him, or confess that you’ve been playing this part of the dumb girl with the slutty outfits simply to get his attention.

“I love when you get to the office with no panties on, gods, you’re a dirty little whore.” Seokmin’s hands are on your ass while you bounce on his cock. He’s sitting on his desk chair, admiring the view of your tits as you fuck yourself on his cock. His dirty words make your pussy flutter around him and you whimper, your hands braced on his shoulders.

“Mhmm, only a whore for you, Mr. Lee,” you moan, biting down on your lip. There is no chance you’ll ever grow tired of seeing the way he looks at you when you fuck. His hooded eyes, his red lips dropped open. His cheeks flushed and his hair a mess.

You enjoy being on top, enjoy watching him watch you, setting your own pace until he can’t hold back any longer and wraps his arm around your waist, pushing you down so he can fuck into you at his desired speed.

“That’s right, you’re my whore, your pussy belongs only to me.” He squeezes your ass cheeks and moans when you clench around him again, thrusting his hips up once. You can tell he’s about to lose control, about to hold you down and fuck you senseless. There is nothing quite as hot as Seokmin losing his composure.

Just two days ago, you teased him by being flirty with Soonyoung all day. Seokmin had not thought of himself as possessive, but somehow when it came to you…

Safe to say, he fucked you against his office door two minutes after your last encounter with Soonyoung, simply shoving up your skirt and ripping off your panties, his cock deeply buried inside of you the next second. He fucked you so hard you couldn’t properly walk even the day after.

“Yes, Mr. Lee, my pussy belongs to you, I am yours, Sir.”

You bounce on his cock quicker now, throwing your head back when his hands move to your breasts, taking them both into his hands and cradling them. His fingers press onto your nipples, squeezing them between his thumb and forefinger, pinching and teasing you. With every touch of his, you feel yourself nearing your high.

“You’re so beautiful, always so good for me, isn’t that right?” He breathes out, licking his lips as his eyes are glued to the way your tits look between his hands.

He fucked them a few days ago, your tits. Had you kneeling between his legs, squeezing them together as he fucked his cock between them with the lube he now stored in his bottom drawer. They had felt amazing around him, but nothing compared to your cunt, to its warmth, to its tightness.

“Oh- oh! I’m- I’m gonna come, Mr. Lee! Please, can I come?!” Your orgasm is so close, is ready to crash down on you and when Seokmin moaned out a yes, you let it happen. Waves and waves of pleasure erupt in your body and make you fall forward against his chest, his hips now beginning to thrust up, his moans turning more and more desperate.

“Good girl, such a good girl, fuck- I’m gonna fill you up, yeah? Fill you up with my cum, breed you like my own personal whore, hm?”

Your nails dig into his skin desperately as he fucks you fast and hard, his right arm now around your waist, pressing you down while he uses you for his pleasure, crying out your name when he comes - white hot cum landing inside your spent pussy, painting it the colours of his affection for you.

Seokmin fucks both of you through your orgasms, whispering sweet nothings into your ear, kissing your lips passionately when his hips still. You kiss him back, arms wrapping around his neck, your high still present in your bones.

“You’re perfect,” Seokmin mumbles against your lips and you smile, kissing him again, fingers brushing through his hair.

For a while, you make-out just like that, him still safely buried inside of you, some bits of your combined releases dripping down onto his chair.

Only when Seokmin’s phone rings do the two of you part. You give his cheek a small kiss before climbing off his lap and looking for your underwear, all while you put your dress back into its place. Your boss watches you, wishes he could just do this all over again instead of answering his phone. Reluctantly, he takes the call and watches how you wave at him, panties back on and clothes and shoes back where they belong. He waves back, greeting the business partner on the other line.

And when you leave his office and close the door behind you, when none of your co-workers even pay you any mind, you realize that maybe you like to keep it this way for just a little while longer.

[choslut]

u asked for vi thirsts and i simply couldn't NOT show up for our girl.

uhm. care to discuss asking vi as a +1 to a council gala? (and perhaps. the semi-public hooking up that occurs as a consequence of vi just chugging the fancy champagne???)

warnings : semi-public fingering, oral sex, drinking, dirty talk

a/n : this kinda carries on from my most recent vi fic, pussy talk, but also not really… imagine an alternate ending where you do end up going to the gala and vi just can’t keep her eyes (or hands) off of you…

mental note : keep vi far, far away from the drinks at galas.

it started with the welcoming drinks, carried around in tall bubbly flutes by uniformed waiters. vi was more than happy to accept — there’s no limit on welcoming drinks, right? — and by the time everyone is seated, vi has downed at least 5 flutes of champagne.

it's dangerous, having a tipsy vi next to you whilst the councillor's give their welcoming speeches. unlike you, she fucking hates formal events. they're so and boring and so very painfully formal, and she'd much rather be at home with you, strewn across the couch, doing much less formal activities.

now, sober vi would keep these thoughts to herself and instead just fantasize, zoning out to the sound of droning voices as she ogles at you in your gorgeous gala getup. but right now, vi is not sober, and the speeches are getting on her last fucking nerve, so she decides to take matters, or more so, you, into her own hands.

going to council galas with vi can be risky, because as the speeches reach their climax, so, subsequently, are you, writhing in your seat as vi rubs at your clit under the table. your girlfriend is impatient, even more so when tipsy and even worse when drunk, and try as you might to pry your hands away from the wet haven in between your legs, all efforts prove futile.

you're fighting to keep your mouth shut, to appear like your girlfriend isn't threatening to spear you on her thick fingers in the middle of the regal event hall. if there weren't so many eyes on you, you would probably whisper at her to stop it, but that would bait you out, so you let her continue.

vi may have hands dirtied by the juices flooding from your cunt, but her mouth is even dirtier. fueled by the champagne and the glass of ridiculously expensive whiskey she's sipping on, her lips begin to quietly whisper dirty nothings in your ear, words that would shock anyone who had the (dis)pleasure of hearing them.

"let's get outta here baby, fuck," she drawls quietly, powdery blue eyes staring at the point where her wrist is surrounded by the bunched up silk of your skirt. " 's boring, no?"

"you're such a slut for letting me at you like this in public, cupcake. what d'you think they would say if they knew, hm?" that's precisely what you're worried about, what the attendees would say if they knew your current position. so, to appease vi (and to save yourself from degrading public scruitny), you stand up and drag her out silently by the wrist of the same hand she just used to finger you silly.

bonus : you most definitely drag vi off to the bathrooms just to kiss that stupid, triumphant smirk off of her face, and the night ends (somewhat early) with the door of the bathroom locked, and you hoisted up onto the sink, back against the mirror and hands carded through her mussed pink locks as she eats you out like you're her last meal.

it doesn't matter anyways. vi wasn't in the mood for fancy steak and potatoes, much preferring to have you for dinner instead.

© choslut — do not copy, repost or translate my works without permission.

[batsandbirdbrains]

The one with Mister Commissioner Gordon

I like the idea of Dick as Robin thinking he’s really friendly with Commissioner Gordon, but Jim thinks this little demon bird is the bane of his existence, second only to Batman himself.

Dick starts out as Robin when he’s eight years old, and he’s very used to the adults around him liking him and his presence. All the other grown ups in the circus were always so nice to him, they taught him anything he wanted to know, they never complained about him being around.

“Hey Mr. Commissioner Gordon,” Jim nearly jumps out of his chair when the squeaky voice sounds from the window behind his desk, “I had a question for you.”

“Robin,” Jim greets. He’s known the bird for two years now, and he still is always startled by him. “Remind me what you and the bat have against knocking?”

“It scared you last time I knocked on the window, and you told me if I was gonna scare you out of your skin that you’d rather I sneak up on you like normal.”

“Yes, thank you for the reminder, Robin,” Jim says, his voice flat.

“You’re welcome!”

Jim just sighs, putting his forehead in his hand. The kid always sounds so sincere, he can’t help but feel a little bad about how annoyed he gets with him. Even if the way he’s perched on the windowsill like an actual bird is freaking Jim out.

“You had a question?”

“Oh, right!” When Jim looks up, Robin is grinning at him, before his face turns serious. Jim is almost afraid he’s gonna say Batman is away and he needs Jim to babysit until further notice. It’s happened once before. It was a horrible 36 hours. For Jim. “I wanted to ask you, if someone wants to be a detective like forreal, how do they do it?”

Jim blinks a couple times, then wonders if this is actually worse than babysitting.

“Are you saying you want to be a detective, Robin?”

“Well, you’ve said before I’m one of the best detectives you have!” Robin is beaming at him again, bouncing on the windowsill a bit. “And I saw you talking at career day - you go to lots of career days for lots of schools, don’t try to find out which one I go to - and I just, well, I dunno what other kinda job I’d be good at anyway.”

The way Robin chews at his lip and suddenly looks unsure does make Jim kinda feel like a jerk. He fully turns his chair towards the window where Robin is perched, and he smiles at the kid.

“I think you’d make an excellent detective, kid,” he tells him. “But I’m sure there’s plenty of other jobs you’d be great at, too.”

“Well, there’s a few,” Robin says, nodding his head. “But I don’t think B would let me. Secret identities and all that.”

Jim isn’t touching that with a ten foot pole. If Batman wants to dictate what kind of job Robin can have when he’s an adult, that’s really none of Jim’s business.

“He’s okay with you being a detective?”

“Well, he’s one.”

“Of mine?”

Robin tilts his head.

“Well, not like, on taxes or anything,” Robin says, and Jim nearly sighs in relief. The thought of Batman working for him filled him with dread for all of thirty seconds.

Jim sighs, rubbing at his temples. He can see from the corner of his eye how Robin tilts his head again, and he swears the kid makes a trilling noise. Sometimes, Jim is afraid the kid is actually part bird.

“Well, if you want to be a detective, you have to start with the police academy like everyone else.”

“Would I have to be one of those cops who gives tickets for expired parking meters?”

“Most likely.”

“I can’t just go straight to being a detective? I’ll have like, a million years of experience by then!”

“Will you disclose that on your application?”

Robin actually pouts at him. Jim laughs.

“Maybe we should discuss this more when you’re closer in age to actually apply to the academy?”

“I guess so,” Robin mutters, still pouting.

“Did you have anything else to talk about tonight, Robin?”

“Not really,” Robin says with a sigh. Then he bounces on the windowsill again. “Can I have one of your lollipops, please?”

Jim keeps a jar of candies on his desk. Robin is the only one who ever seems to actually take ones aside from when Barbara visits his office. He grabs the bowl and holds it out to Robin, who takes a blue lollipop with flourish.

“Thanks!” Robin stick the lollipop in his mouth, and he’s gone back to smiling. “I’ll talk to you later, Mr. Commissioner Gordon!”

“Talk to you later, Robin.”

Jim likes to think he’s used to Robin back flipping out of windows and off the edge of buildings even when they’re on the sixth floor. The way his heart nearly leaps out of his chest when he sees it tells him otherwise. Robin’s cackle is echoing in the air, and Jim slumps in his chair and runs a hand through his hair.

Jim isn’t sure what the kid is like in his normal life, but he has no desire to find out. If he ever becomes a detective, Jim is hoping he’ll at least have the decency to go to Blüdhaven or something, far away from Jim. He can dream.

[i-dared-myself]

Low Notes and Murder Signals

Stray Kids x reader

Requested by anonymous: Hii! Can I request a ninth!member fic where the reader gets hate on her live about her skill? And then later on in an interview the interviewer brings it up. So like she’s really affected by this and the boys notice and when on stage a fan like yells it at them and how all the boys react.

You sit on the hotel bed, legs folded beneath you. Your phone is propped up with a remote you had found, and too much wiggling keeps causing it to fall over.

“Hello, hello,” you softly greet, smiling warmly. “Welcome, everyone. Hi.”

There’s a couple rolls of comments before you speak again. You like to give it enough time for a decent chunk of fans to have noticed the live.

“Today, I was going to do this fun craft I found,” you say, sorting through the materials you have out in front of you. “I found it at this cute store! Oh, it was adorable. We had to peel Changbin away from it, or else he would’ve lived there forever.”

You laugh to yourself, searching for the instruction manual amongst the mess. You watch as people talk about Changbin’s babygirl energy, smiling to yourself.

“Oh, my lipgloss?” you read a comment aloud, humming to yourself. “I’m not sure what brand it is. I’m still just wearing my makeup from recording today. It was a long day.”

The comments fly by faster than you can track, and you busy your hands with the craft. You occasionally flick your eyes up to glance over the comments, continuing your talk of the shop.

“And even Chan liked it!” You laugh. “He tries to seem all tough, but he’s such a softie.”

Someone asks why it was a hard day, referencing what you had said before. You consider it before saying, “Well, preparing for this comeback has been tough. Not to spoil anything, but there are some really low notes that I have to hit.”

There’s a selection of people practically screaming over you having low notes. But… there’s a few of them who say that of course it would be tough. Because you’re not talented enough to hit those notes.

You blink and force a smile. “But we’re all really excited. Stay makes it all worth it.”

Now more people are discussing how you’ve never taken the low notes before. You can’t help but read them all, frowning slightly. This wasn’t how you expected the live to go.

“Anyways, isn’t- Isn’t the craft cute?” You redirect their attention back to what the live was supposed to be about. 

But you have this ominous feeling that tells you this isn’t the end.

And it isn’t the end. The interview you have the following day goes wrong is ways you had been dreading.

You zone out for the introduction, barely paying attention to the interview. There’s just so many of them. You know it’s a bad habit for an idol, but… It’s pretty boring.

Jeongin nudges you gently, a signal that the interview is being turned to you. You perk up and look to the interviewer, smiling politely.

“So you did a live the other day,” she calmly says, staring at the cards in her hands, “and your skill was brought up to scrutiny. How do you handle that as an idol?”

Your heart sinks. This is what you had been hoping to avoid. “Uh,” you begin nervously, “all I can really do is prove myself. I work hard and I hope it shows, and I hope Stay realizes that.”

The interviewer raises an eyebrow, leaning forwards more. “And recently, the media has been discussing you as well. Does this put a strain on any projects?”

“No, not really,” you answer. “Discussions like these aren’t unpopular, and I know that my group will support me. This will pass.”

“We are very excited for our upcoming projects, though,” Chan smoothly interjects, offering a pleasant smile. “Our comebacks are always a lot of fun, and we can’t wait to surprise Stay with it.”

“Oh, yes. The comeback.” The interviewer shifts in her seat, shuffling between cards. She looks to you again, and you hold in a sigh. “So you’re handling some of the low notes, yes?”

“Right,” you cheerily say. “But honestly, the songs we’re preparing are something we’re very proud of. There’s always so much to try and do, and I’m so thrilled to share it all.”

Changbin pats your shoulder reassuringly. “But don’t ask for any spoilers, though.”

Everyone laughs lightly at his words, and the interviewer moves the conversation along. It moves on from you and the low notes, but your mind still lingers on it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You laugh, throwing your head back in delight as you chase after Felix. He darts ahead with a bright smile, effectively beating you in the little race you had challenged him to.

“Doesn’t count,” you stubbornly say when you catch up, overlooking the crowds. 

“Yeah it does!” Felix argues, falling into place for a song. When you stick your tongue out at him, he rolls his eyes and says, “That’s so immature of you.”

“Meh-meh-meh,” you mock, hiding a grin at how annoyed he gets.

Minho smacks the back of your head, hissing out, “Shut up! We’re starting!”

And sure enough, the music begins right after he finishes talking. You throw yourself into the steps and the lines, looking at the others occasionally. Jisung seems to have gotten toilet paper stuck on his shoes somehow, and you can only shake your head.

“How did that even happen?” Hyunjin demands quietly as Felix jokes wth the audience. “We’ve been out on stage!”

Jisung narrows his eyes and crosses his arms. “I don’t know!”

Jeongin walks by, muttering, “The fairies did it. They’ve been planning things…”

Seungmin blinks at him in disbelief. “Sometimes I think I’m the only normal one.”

“If you can’t handle the low notes, give them to someone else!” someone screams, startling you.

Chan glances over his shoulder in the direction it had come from, eyes flicking to you. You wave a hand at him discretely to tell him you’re fine.

“Just give Felix the low notes! We like him better!”

Changbin picks you up and carts you off to the other half of the stage, away from the shouting of insults. He squeezes your forearm. “You okay?”

“Oh, I’m fine.” You nod and watch as Jisung starts to tell the audience about how he wishes he could show his abs off. “It’s nothing I haven’t dealt with before.”

“But that doesn’t mean that you should,” Hyunjin points out. 

“Give me the signal, and I’ll rip their head off,” Minho promises darkly. 

“What signal?” Chan questions before pinching the bridge of his nose. “Actually, whatever. That doesn’t matter.”

“It doesn’t matter if you can do the low notes as well as Felix, because you’re not Felix,” Seungmin tells you firmly. “They should realize that. You’re you, and of course you’re going to have problems with notes sometimes. But that’s okay.”

“We all struggle with things sometimes,” Felix adds. “Just work as hard as you can, and don’t worry about the people who want you to do better.”

You sigh and nod. “I guess. But… Why doesn’t Felix just take the-“

“Because we want to hear it with your voice,” Chan interjects as Jisung approaches, and a new song begins. 

You smile. “Okay, thanks-“

Minho lunges in the direction of where the yelling had come from, before being caught by Changbin. He wriggles around furiously, and the crowd laughs at his silly antics.

“She gave the signal!” Minho exclaims as Changbin simply returns him to his spot. “She smiled! That’s the signal!”

“People smile all the time!” Jisung facepalms. “That’s a terrible signal!”

Seungmin gives Minho an unsure look. “Do you kill someone every time someone smiles?”

“Obviously not,” Minho murmurs as the group begins dancing. “Do you think we have enough closets for all those bodies?”

“The fairies have enough closets,” Jeongin whispers, barely audible.

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