#anyway... like I said; if you don't really keep up with it

[thedanishcatgirl]

The idea that their timid, little, shy, book loving, wizard had a wife was weird enough, but that wasn't the most surprising part. No, that was the fact, that the massive woman stepping through the selfmade entrance, whom presumably must be the aforementioned wife, was a tall fearsome looking fey. Her antlers where sharp, her body looked to be made of blackened branches covered in deadly looking thorns and her furious eyes glowed a fiery red like her hair.

Through the ringing in his ear the bard could faintly hear their wizard calling out to her wife.

"Careful darling we don't want the cage to fall down into the acid!"

The fay woman's only answer was a terrifying growl, but there was no more explosions. Not like that was needed anyway, since the floor was torn up, and massive thorny vines where rapidly growing out from the floor choking any still alive. She quickly walked over to them, took a hold of their cage, and swiftly yanked it free from the chain, then stomped out of the castle with their cage dangling from her hand. As they where carried away he saw the castle was quickly being overgrown with the vines, and he knew for certain that soon all that would be left was a crumbling ruin. This was gonna make one epic song.

Too terrified to speak he decided to shift his focus onto his party. Their wizard was looking concered up at her wife. Their sorcerer had passed out from either his injuries, or their terrifying rescurer. Their rouge was looking a bit too impressed, but then again, she was always addicted to danger. And their ever confident paladin, looked to be locked in a state of shock. He tried to get her to snap out of it, but she was completely unresponsive, so he tried his best to hum a little tune and heal their sorcerer. It wasn’t much, he was afterall not their main healer and not on his a game, but it was enough to get their sorcerer up. He was groggy and clearly still rough, but as soon as he noticed their surroundings, and who held their cage he panicked. Luckily he was out of spells, which rendered him pretty harmless, and a quick calm emotions stopped the worst of it.

"What is happening, where are we and who is THAT?!"

"Calm down she rescued us. Remember wizard said she messaged her wife to come save us? Well here she is I think she decided easiest way to get us all to a safer place was keeping us in the cage."

But their sorcerer just looked confused at him. Perhaps he hadn't fully registered the conversation before, which was certainly a possibility considering he was very hurt. That would mean he had no idea the woman who attacked the castle, and now held their cage was an ally, making this terrifying experience all the more scary. Worst of all their sorcerer was practically a teenager, and the easiest scared of their group, and this had been bad enough to leave their fearless paladin shocked. So he did what he had done so many nights and comforted their sorcerer.

"Shh it's all right we are safe she won't hurt us"

"It doesn't make sense, this isn't right, what are you talking about, wizard can't be married to an archfey, why would someone so powerful care about small insignificant mortals"

Archfey? Fuck he knew she was clearly powerful, but he hadn't realised just how much. But at soon as sorcerer said it, he knew it was true. Maybe paladin knew and at that was why she was so terrified. He didn't know much about archfey other than legends and songs, and those where always about how dangerous and fickle they where. How in all the hells did wizard get to call one her wife?

After a little bit they entered an ancient looking forest, and finally their wizard decided to speak.

"Sweetie, don't you think it's about time you put us down? We are in our forest now, nothing can hurt us here. We would all really love to get out of this stupid cage, and I definitely owe my friends some explanations. They can't really appreciate the beauty of our home like this, and I would hate their first impressions of it being bad."

Gently she sets the cage down, and shrinks to a still tall, but slightly more manageable, size.

"HOW MANY TIMES HAVE I WARNED YOU NOT TO GET OVER YOUR HEAD! You know I love you and support your little adventuring hobby, but you are so fragile, and I wish I could follow you, but my duties prevent that which means I can't protect you, and I hate that!"

Slowly their wizard limped over to her wife, seemingly not concerned at all about the thorns. Unfortunately that exposed just how badly injured she was, which her wife clearly only noticed now.

"HOW DARE THEY HURT YOU LIKE THAT! They did not deserve to die so mercifully!" It was followed by more curses in a language he didn't understand, but the intent was clear as day. The party was too preoccupied with trying not to think about what she considered doing, if that, was merciful in her eyes. It didn't matter what they had done to them, he was pretty sure those screams would haunt all their dreams, as long as they lived.

The wizard didn't look to be the least bit fazed, instead she gently caressed her furious wife, deftly avoiding the thorns.

"Shh it's all right darling, I'm safe now." She said followed by more reassurances, in what he suspected was the same language her wife had cursed in.

As the woman calmed down, they saw her body literally transform along with her mood. Slowly the fire in her hair diminished until it looked more like branches, her eyes changed into a piercing green, her wooden body became brown, the thorns receded and now she was just slightly taller than them. But while it was clear she was calmer now, that fire seemed to be just under the surface, like a forest that had just been ravaged by fire, and only needed a little spark to send it ablaze again.

"Why didn't you message me sooner?" She almost pleaded.

"I'm sorry, I thought we could escape on our own, and didn't want to worry you unless absolutely necessary." He can't help but notice the tears in her eyes. "Also kinda hoped that when I did introduce them to you, it would be a bit less terrifying." She adds with a tiny sliver of humour in her voice.

"Hmm I forgive you my foolish little flower." She says, as she touches her forehead to their wizard's. Apprapo flowers, he noticed that her hair has sprouted leaves and even a few flowers, and her body was being covered by moss and lichen. Hopefully that meant her mood has approved significantly.

Looking at their party he concluded that their sorcerer was hiding behind their rouge, who was trying their best to make him feel protected, and their paladin was still completely out of it, which it seemed their wizard had finally registered, but then again it was probably fair, that she had been to preoccupied with her wife.

"Darling do you think you could help her?" She asked to which her wife responded by gently touching her finger to their paladin and casting, what he recognised as a much stronger calm emotions than his. She wisely took a few steps back letting wizard stand in front as paladin slowly became more aware of her surroundings.

"Hey look at me we are safe now, there is nothing to worry about. There is no danger anymore I promise you."

"But but, that's, they they, danger I can't, I can't protect, I'm, I'm not even, He, you don't"

It was clear that while she was definitely calmer now, she was still very scared, which surprised him, because with the power of an archfey, she could easily have completely overpowered her fear. But perhaps she wasn't gonna just completely charm her wife's friend, which surely was a good sign.

"Shh shh it's alright, I know you're scared, I know you're all scared and we understand that. What just happened was very scary, and I know the reputation archfey have, but please just trust me when I say, that none of us are in any danger."

"You just say that because she has charmed you!" Sorcerer bravely answers.

"I don't think so," you counter. "Why not just charm all of us, or at least charm paladin, which she clearly didn't, since she is still scared. Why be so concerned with wizards safety, and so quick to forgive? I must admit I have no clue how in the hells it happened, but they clearly love each other very much, and she has been nothing but helpful, so I believe wizard when she says we are safe."

At that wizard smiles, clearly pleased she managed to convince someone.

"Maybe we could at least give them a chance. It's not like we have any way of escaping if she is messing with us," rouge tentatively says.

Sorcerer doesn't say anything, but at least he wasn't complaining or actively freaking out, witch admittedly was a pretty low bar, but considering the day they have had, was gonna have to be good enough.

Paladin looked to be very unsure, but maybe it was the calm emotions, maybe her desire to believe her friend, or maybe she was just too exhausted to do anything but listen.

"Well this is my wife Sevanonna. We have been together for almost 20 years, and I love her with all my heart, but despite all my books and her amazing company, I started to go a little stir crazy a while ago, and really missed adventuring, so after a lot of convincing and safety measures, like this ring I used to communicate with her, I left our home and soon found you guys." As soon as she stopped her nervous rant, her wife took over.

"Like you mortals say, if you love someone you let it go, and if they love you they will come back. Not that I ever worried that was the reason she wouldn't return."

"How in the hells did a shy timid little bookworm like you, snag someone so fiercely powerful?" asked rouge, voicing the question he had been too scared to ask.

"Oh she stumbled into my domain on accident in her ever growing search for knowledge, and she was just so sweet and kind and adorable, I couldn't find it within myself to punish her. I was curious and lonely, so we made a very simple deal. I would help her with gaining knowledge, if she would keep me company. As fun as messing with mortals can be, it doesn't keep me entertained for very long, and I don't particularly care for the company of my fellow archfey. We couldn't help but fall for each other, and by now that deal has been null and void for a very long time."

As she spoke, she looked at their wizard with such strong fondness it was impossible not to believe, and he already knew once he had pressed wizard for some more details, he was gonna create the most beautiful love ballad the world had ever seen out of this.

It seemed sorcerer and paladin had decided to very tentatively trust their story as well, or maybe just given up. Afterall they knew rouge was right. They didn't really have a choice.

"Well then show us to your home then. I'm dying to see what kind of fantastical place you live in, if this forest is anything to go by!" He decided to say as a way of lightning their spirits. Rouge ended up carrying sorcerer, who was too weak to do anything but curl up in her, thankfully deceptively strong, arms. And he supported paladin as they walked, to the best of his abilities. Sevanonna seemed to understand, that although she could definitely simply carry them all, it was better to not intervene.

Later that night, or perhaps it was technically the next day, he wasn't sure and didn't really care, he found himself alone with paladin. For while he wasn't the least bit surprised by sorcerer and rouge, palsdin's actions seemed wholly out of character, and he was determined to find out why.

"Hey you all right there?" Paladin turned to look at him with a panicked look for half a second, until it seemed like she remembered who he was. She must have been lost in her mind again.

"I'm, I'm fine." She said with a hint of her usual confidence, although it was clear she definitely wasn't.

"I know you are usually the one who does this, but if you wanna talk about it, I promise to lend an ear and not tell anyone." She looked like she was considering it. "Everyone needs someone to lean on, once in a while. You don't have to be our strong confident leader all the time. I'm pretty sure you would say something like that, if you where me." That last part at least managed to produce a tiny snort.

"I... my mother she, she made a deal with an archfey a long time ago. But she was tricked and understemated the price. She ... it took my youngest sister and when she tried to stop that she," at this point paladin broke down sobbing. He tried his best not to loose it at the sound that felt so wrong coming from her, and decided to rub circles on her back like she usually did. When that didn't help, he decided to stop being her and just do what he was best at, which was performing. So he summoned his dulcimer and started playing a comforting tune, and trying to do his best to put some sort of bardic magic into it.

"I was about the age of sorcerer, and suddenly I was the oldest in our little family. I had to be the responsible one, I had to protect us. That is why I devoted myself to my god, to make sure no chaotic or evil forces would ever mess with those I loved ever again. But not even the gods could stop them from deciding to start their own lives, once they got older. They moved on, and I didn't really fit into their lives anymore. I tried to devote myself even more, and create my own life too. And when I found you it felt like I had a family I could protect again. But I failed." And with that she collapsed and starting sobbing even harder than before. What she said made sense. She definitely was the mother of their group, not just because of her age, and a fiercely protective one at that. That was clearly something she had in common with their wizard's wife. And with that kind of tragic backstory, who could blame her. He could also see why she must have panicked like that when a threatening archfey suddenly appeared, and why she felt like she had failed in protecting them. She couldn't risk trusting that this wasn't some elaborate trick. He probably couldn't do anything about that, but he couldn't let her believe they saw her as a failure.

"No. You have not failed us. We are all still together, surely that counts for something? I can promise you if it wasn't for you, we would have all destroyed each other, or at the very least left. You have always been our glue, whether it was settling differences, or patching us up. You protected us all during that fight, and is the only reason sorcerer isn't dead now. But we are all adults here, or mostly, and you don't have to protect us all the time. Let us protect you too. We are a team, and that means we all have each other's backs. We are all here, we are safe, or at the very least not in active danger, we can rest and recover now, and afterwards we can talk about ensuring it doesn't get so bad again. But we are all alive, and if you hadn't been here, things would have gone so much worse, so cut yourself some slack alright?

"Hmm" was all he got from her before she fell asleep. It was good that she had relaxed enough to get some rest, he just had to hope she had heard his words, and taken them to heart.

An adventuring party is in a cage suspended over acid the wizard clears his throat "I just sent a message to my wife she should be here to save us soon." "Wait your married?" Said the rouge "more importantly what is she gonna." The paladin is interrupted by a massive explosion.

[aangelinakii]

TO YOUR SHOULDERS.

— you always looked better with your hair down.

summary : despite always wearing your hair up, jason thinks it looks better down.

note : yes this is totally ripped off from a scene in dexter s4,, and also reader is described with long hair but not explicitly fem ??? so just a heads up for that

it had never been a question of if you looked nice, it was just that it worked better for you in every way.

your trusty, dusty claw clip.

having your hair out of your face helps you think, helps you concentrate. you don't need to worry about fly-aways when you're eating, nor food getting stuck in the ends. it goes with every outfit, your claw clip.

whoever invented this thing needs everything they deserve and more, wherever they are.

that morning, as you dressed for work, you'd been standing in the bathroom mirror, clip lodged between your teeth as you gathered your hair at the back of your head.

jason's reflection emerged through the door, and he stepped up to the toilet next to you, lifting the seat up with the back of his knuckle — something he preferred doing to avoid getting germs on his fingers, which he'd wash off anyway.

but he paused, looking at you, and you could feel his gaze, as well as see it in the mirror if you tilted your head just a little.

your movements never ceased, and you reached to the front of your face, fingers closing around your clip.

"hey," jason piped up, almost urgent in a way that caused you to drop your hair and spin to look at him. his eyebrows were raised, but lowered in an instant, and his eyes were calm, kind.

after touching the toilet, he didn't want to reach up and ruin your hair, but he ghosted a hand over the front of your locks. "have i ever told you how good you look with your hair down?"

no, he hadn't, but now he has.

instinctively, you pulled away with a bashful grin threatening to poke out from pulled-up cheeks, soft like fresh bread. "really?" you breathed out, a small laugh like a song to your voice.

"really," he smiled with a nod.

"okay, i'll keep it down today." as you leaned forward into him, placing a hand on his toned chest, your smile still lingered as you kissed him, and you could feel the muscles in his face doing the same.

however, you hadn't kept your promise — not that it was a promise at all, but it was a compliment and it had made you feel warm and fuzzy.

but it's a force of habit, putting your hair up.

so when the work you were doing got a little bit more stressful, a little bit more things for you to rush around and do, the claw clip you'd kept safe in your bag just in case came out and clamped itself in your hair, keeping it up and out of your face.

by the time you'd closed the front door behind you and kicked your shoes off, jason was rounding the corner into the hallway to welcome you home.

your bag slipped from your fingers, falling to the floor as he appeared, and your arms stretched out for him. there was a slight pause in his actions, but it was barely anything noticeable in the exhaust of your head.

his wide frame slotted between your open arms, strong biceps holding you within his own. whilst your hands lay half-limp on his back, jason's embrace was tight, a hand coming to position on the nape of your exposed neck.

soft kisses tickled your temple.

"missed me?" you chuckled, voice muffled by the fabric of jason's grey t-shirt.

to which he only hummed in return, pulling his head away from where he'd been kissing to burrow in the crook of your shoulder. and then he said something, but you couldn't make it out, for his words had got lost in the threads of your clothes.

"speak up?" you offered, carefully twitching your head away so he'd look up.

when his face finally emerged, you found his black hair messed with affection and his eyes soft like the fur of a labrador. his lips thinned with a similar shyness you'd felt that morning.

"you put your hair up," jason finally mustered himself up to say, pads of his fingers dancing along the curls that had fallen down at the back after a busy day.

with a sharp inhale, you brought a hand to feel the clip, as if just realising it was there. "oh! sorry, it's been a long day."

you felt jason's hand rise to the clip too, and you moved yours away, settling it around the base of his neck, where your other hand met it.

"it's okay." his voice was soft and soothing, like a cup of chamomile and honey on a horridly rainy day; the scent of lavender when you're trying to get to sleep.

suddenly the tension at the back of your head was lost.

jason's other hand came around, brushing through the hair released from its clip, coming up to the top of your head to style it to frame your face. his eyes never looked at the hair, only you.

"perfect."

and the styling hand rested upon your cheek, thumb absently skimming across the skin.

with a gentle pull on his neck, you leaned forward, eyes fluttering shut, to meet him in the middle. if you were perfect, he was heaven-sent.

[satinkizzes]

𝐒𝐐𝐔𝐈𝐃 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐒 𝐌𝐄𝐍 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐒 - you trying to be dominant

CONTAINS, cho sangwoo, thanos, gi-hun, dae-ho, in-ho, jun-ho, salesman.

WARNINGS; porn with no plot, p in v, oral (f receiving), gun play, manhandling.

CHO SANGWOO;

You straddle his lap, pressing his wrists into the mattress with a sheepish smirk. His cock twitched inside you, and he let out a breath, tilting his head and looking at you with a small glimpse of confusion. "Stay still," vou whisper against his ear. For once, he's quiet, watching you with hooded eyes. But then, the corner of his mouth twitches, and before you can react, he flips you effortlessly.

Now he was on top, and slowly thrusted back into you, smirking down at you. "Cute," he murmurs, "but you know I don't like losing."

He loves it better when he was in control, using you to how he wanted. Who were you to decide how fast he pounded you into that mattress? How rough to go? No. He wanted full control. He reminded you of that by snapping his hips against yours mercilessly.

“You wouldn’t have been able to keep up anyways, darling.”

SEONG GI-HUN;

You push Gi-hun onto the couch, climbing over him with confidence. At first, he lets out a giggle, thinking you’re joking around. You’re used to just vanilla sex really, nothing too crazy, but you both still get satisfied.

His laughter dies as he realizes you're not joking. "Oh. Oh," he blinks, looking up at you with wide eyes. "Well, uhm, this is new?" He lets vou take control, but you can see his lips twitching like he's trying not to laugh.

"What?" you huff at him, sure, you were mad he wasn’t taking you seriously. But then, he grins, a toothy one, and leans up to places a kiss to your jaw.

"Nothing, I just... I think I like this.”

“Yeah?” You smiled, tilting your head as he left open mouthed kisses down your neck. He nodded, murmuring, “Well if you’re gonna act like this you gotta hurry up or I won’t last long.”

KANG DAE-HO;

You push Dae-ho up to the wall, hand on his jaw whilst you press your lips gently against his. He kisses you back, softly, until your hand starts trailing down his chest to his v-line, fingers pushing into his waistband.

A small murmur escapes his lips, and he breaks the kiss away slowly. He tries to pick you up, to take you over to the couch or the bed, but you grab his hand.

“Mm-mm.” You shake your head, looking up at him. He blinks down at you, lips parting. “What are you… doing?” He looked genuinely hurt actually, thinking you were turning him down.

You lean in, your lips ghosting over his jaw. “Taking control?” You said blatantly. You pulled him over to the bed by his shirt, and gently pushed him down, straddling his waist.

“Uh.. I- I don’t usually…” He says nervously, hands running up and down your sides. “Don’t usually what?” You ask, pushing up his shirt. “I don’t know. Let someone else take the lead?” He replied, rutting up into you in search of some friction.

“Then it’s about time you did.” You giggle, leaning down to trail kisses all the way to his stomach.

THANOS/CHOI SU BONG;

You push Thanos back against the nearest surface, gripping his chin to force his gaze on you. You couldn’t tell if it was the weed making you this bold, or the way his messy hair looked as he rolled up another joint. He raised an eyebrow, his usual cocky smirk on his lips. “Oh? What’s this?” he mused, with amusement.

“I’m taking control,” you murmur, pressing against him harder, feeling his cock start to twitch.

Thanos lets out a soft chuckle, but there’s something in his eyes. Curiosity, maybe even anticipation, or maybe it’s just his dilated pupils. “That so babe?” He tilts his head, his usual arrogance faltering just a little.

You trail your fingers down his chest, deliberately slow. “Problem with that?”

He exhaled, sharply, his hands flexing at his sides like he’s resisting the urge to grab you. His usual confidence seems to waver, just for a second. “No problem,” he mutters, voice a little rougher. “Just wondering how far you think you can get without me showing you how much of a little slut you are.”

“And if you’re gonna start doing all this shit, at least be good at it.” He said, his voice a tone of fake sweetness.

HWANG IN-HO;

You step closer, tilting your chin up to meet his unreadable gaze. "Sit down," you murmur, pushing lightly on his chest. You start to slowly unbuckle his belt, hands all over his waist.

His mask is off, and his lips curve in something dangerously close to amusement. "You're brave today.”he muses, a small smirk on his face as you start to work his length with your hands, gritting his teeth at the sudden touch.

"I don't recall asking for your opinion." His gloved hands grip your waist, and he lets out a shaky breath.

"Neither did I," he counters smoothly, a small smile looking up at you, trying to keep his composure.

HWANG JUN-HO;

You shove Jun-ho onto the bed, pinning him down with unexpected force. His brows lift, but his eyes stay burning into you. "You really think you can keep me here?" he asks, voice teasing. You smirk.

"Try me." He exhales sharply, his hands flexing at his sides.

Then, with zero effort, he reverses the position, trapping your wrists above your head.

"Nice try" he whispers, "but I'm a cop, sweetheart. Restraining people is my job." He starts to press kisses down your stomach, pulling at your shorts with one hand, the other holding your wrists.

Not even minutes later, you’re squirming under his mouth. “See. We both know you like it better like this, all opened up and pretty for me.”

SALESMAN;

You lean over the table, pressing a hand to his chest to keep him seated. His smirk deepens.

"Interesting," he muses. You tilt his chin up, your voice low. "No more games." It was more of a plead, not a demand, but you knew he’d see this as you being disobedient.

He chuckles, leaning in close, the gun in his hand caressing your jaw. "Oh, but this is my favorite kind of game.”

You let out a breath as he holds the back of your neck with his other hand, pulling your head back slightly. “You know trying to take control isn’t going to change anything, don’t you?”

The gun was being dragged down your body, all the way to your clothed cunt. You didn’t reply, but you knew the answer was yes.

[kisakis-boyfriend]

Author's Note: Old request #3! More Idia for the soul 💙 I think I have a thing for shut-ins/gamer nerds/socially awkward men 💀

Pairings: Idia x male reader

Warnings: Male!reader, dom/top!reader, sub/bottom!Idia, adult Idia, teasing, rough sex, breeding kink, college AU

The bed creaked horribly as the two bodies on top of it collided again and again. Your cock—buried to the hilt inside of your boyfriend—slammed into Idia's ass, leaving his cheeks red and tender from the abuse. Idia's sharp teeth tore into his pillow while his dick rubbed against the sheets from the power of your thrusts.

If your rooms were any further apart, you'd never have such wonderful mornings like this; Mornings where you dump a load or two into Idia before you head off to your classes, leaving him floating on cloud nine as he can't ignore the gooey mess dripping out of his hole and into his boxers until lunchtime. Yeah, mornings like these were the best 💙

“Mmmkhnmffnh-”

“What was that? Can't hear you when you're chewing on your pillow, babe.”

Idia unclenches his jaw long enough to whine “I said n-n-not so rough… aah! If you keep doing that, I won't be able to walk to class–” before chomping down on the plump surface again when you pound into him even harder.

“As if you wouldn't enjoy staying home. Besides, you were just on your knees begging me to– hnmgh… begging me to breed your cunt, remember?”

Your full weight is on top of him—crushing him against the mattress. Idia's eyes roll into his skull when you fill him the first time, followed by a long moan that drips from his lips like honey.

You don't pull out. Cum fills Idia's hole, plugged inside by your thick dick, and he can't fight you off when your tip is so far inside that it practically fucks his brain dumb — not that he really wants you off, anyway. With your pretty boy all pliant, you lift his hips and press a hand on his upper back, forcing him into an arch. Once again, Idia's ass becomes your fleshlight.

“Mhhnmfn–!”

You repeat your earlier sentiment about not being able to understand him when he has a mouth full of pillow.

“Aah- breed me!” Idia cries. Exhausted, but desperate to feel more of your seed flood his guts before his legs quit working entirely. Though staying inside and not dealing with people sounds rather tempting…

Per his request, you fuck another load deep into his hole, pressing your hips as close as physically possible into him so that your cock can unload all the way inside. Still not pulling out, you rub Idia's shoulder while you recover. The entire time, he whines into the pillow, grumbling as you plant little kisses on the back of his neck and try to cheer him up.

His head lifts off of the pillow and he says in a raspy voice, “If I get pregnant because of you, we're in trouble…”

“……Idia? Do you actually…?”

“What?” he finally turns to face you. His brows are furrowed, and the slight annoyance on his face makes you realize that he's serious.

“………”

“Y/n???”

“…you're right, you really shouldn't skip class…”

[gold-onthe-inside]

blind date

who? spencer reid (s8) x blake!reader summary: you finally give into your godmother's insistence on going on a date with her colleague, if only to get her off your back, and find yourself having to break the heart of someone who could have been the love of your life. content warnings: not a happy ending (i warned you, you don't get to yell at me), reader is blake's goddaughter and a therapist. word count: 2.1k

You let out a slow breath before entering the restaurant, smoothing down your dress, still second-guessing your outfit - a purple dress matched with a dark velvet jacket and a black purse with a gold chain belt - as if you hadn’t spent your day looking up what women in their 30s wore on first dates. Not like it matters, you told yourself. You’d get through the date, politely tell the guy that he was great but you weren’t interested, and hopefully be home by 10pm. You turn your gaze to the maitre’d, telling him the table was under Reid’s name.

You had told yourself on the way that you couldn’t hold it against him if he was late — you still remember the coffee meetings your own godmother never turned up to — but it turned out he was earlier than you. Where you showed up to everything ten minutes in advance, he showed up twenty-five minutes.

You saw him first, looking into the silver ware and flattening down his hair and adjusting his tie, clearly nervous, looking up when he heard you thank the maitre’d. Spencer almost stumbled over himself as he stood up to pull your chair out for you and you feel an overwhelming urge to reassure him. “H-Hi,” he said, matching your awkward smile. “You look really nice.”

“Thanks,” you said softly, taking the seat and watching him take his, his hand splayed against his chest to keep his tie back. “You’re taller than I thought you’d be.”

His laugh is nervous, God help him, and he corrects the displaced silverware so they align perfectly before he looked at you again. “I, uh, I get that a lot.”

“Go on a lot of blind dates then?” you asked, sipping the water within reach, and you can see panic flash across his face.

“No! I mean, I’ve-I’ve been on dates before. Just um—” His Adam’s apple bobbed as he swallowed. “I meant I get the-the height thing, quite a bit. Not that there’s been a lot—”

“Breathe, Spencer,” you feel compelled to say as his face flushes. You’d meant to tease, not give the man a heart attack.

“Sorry,” he murmured, trying to get a grip on himself. God, how did Derek do this? “Um… Blake, sorry, Alex, told me that you’re a therapist,” he said, focusing on something concrete.

“Uh, yeah,” you answered, not sure how much information you wanted to tell him. Though, to be fair, he was a federal agent. He could have it found out anyway. “I work at a clinic in Georgetown,” you said, folding your hands in front of you and overthinking whether you should be crossing your legs or not. This was usually the point where the guy would ask if you could read his mind, or attempt to educate you on how mental health was a sham and everyone just needs to get some exercise, and that would be your cue to fake an emergency exit. Maybe you’d get home in time to watch some decent TV.

“Is it hard?” he asked, taking a sip of water before he leaned forward, his eyes sparkling with genuine interest. It was endearing, and surprising.

“It can be,” you answered, leaning in slightly. “Some days you get really, really good sessions, you know? And other days it’s…”

“Hell?” he offered and you let out a small huff.

“Try having a seven year old drawing on furniture with chalk,” you told him, watching him wince.

“I, uh… have a confession,” he said, leaning even closer, his voice a dramatic whisper. “I did that as a kid.”

"Understimulated in class, huh?" you asked, smiling at him a little more.

“A lot,” he admitted. “I learned to read very young, and… well, then everyone wanted me to read, and it wasn’t as fun anymore, you know?”

“Mm,” you say in agreement, but before you continue, the waiter comes, and you both order a glass of wine, and appetizers to split. “So, you must be dealing with a lot worse than pre-pubescent vandalism, right?” you asked, pulling apart the fried mozzarella balls with delicate precision, and you watch him think for a moment.

“I’m just trying to decide if the last case we worked would be preferable to handling a toddler, and I honestly think I’d prefer the serial killer,” he said thoughtfully and you couldn’t help the laugh that bubbled out of you.

"Yeah, no, I don't blame you," you replied, sipping your wine.

“What about you?” he asked between bites. “Did you know you wanted to be a psychologist from day one?”

"Uh... No, I actually thought I would go into linguistics, like Alex, but somewhere around my first year into undergrad, I realised that psychology was my calling," you said.

“What changed your mind?” he asked, tilting his head to the side and leaning his elbow on the table. You liked the way he gave you his full attention; his eyes hadn’t strayed from you since you’d gotten there.

“Uh, we used to have to do these case studies and we’d do these role plays where everyone had a presenting concern to work with, and I used to get this… high whenever I’d figured the client out. Like that moment where everything just… clicks into place. And I got addicted to it,” you said, your words and love for your job captivating.

“I know exactly what you mean,” he said, his smile widening. “I’m sure Alex’s told you that I have an… impressive memory. The cases we work on-the ones they don’t put in our files on purpose-I remember every single piece of information. It’s like the details don’t leave me. So when we finally catch the unsubs, the-the serial killers…” His voice lowers, leaning further over the table to you and he’s so close, you can almost smell his cologne. “That’s when it clicks.”

You stared at him for a beat, like everything else in the world had gone still, his soft hazel eyes looking affectionately into yours, and then the waiter comes over and the bubble between you two pops, springing apart like two teenagers being walked in on. You can see the flush come over his skin, just as the waiter places his plates in front of him, and focus on ordering your dinner, Spencer agreeing to whatever you ordered.

“So,” you started as the waiter left, and you could see the hint of a smile cross his lips. “Spencer, what do you do for fun?”

He hums a little, thinking. “I read, obviously, and I play poker, although I think half the team suspects I’m counting cards.” He leans forward. “Don't tell them, but I am.”

“You can count cards?” you asked, looking at him in disbelief.

He tilts his head to the side, and he looks like some kind of adorable dog, and your cheeks flush a little darker. “Is it that surprising?” Spencer asks. “I mean, if you know the math, it’s-“ He seems to stumble a little, like he’s worried he’ll bore you with the explanation.

“Keep going,” you prompt him, interested.

“I mean, it’s not foolproof,” he starts, the words flowing quickly from him. “You can’t really predict probability with any certainty. It’s just… really good guessing.” He smiles proudly. “I’m actually banned from a few casinos in Vegas.”

You sipped your wine, shaking your head. "You've gotta teach me how, cause I swear, Alex beats me every time."

“You play poker?” Spencer asked, and you nodded, taking another sip of wine. “Of course, you do,” he added, smiling. “You’re perfect,” he blurted, then started, his face flushing a deep colour.

You could fall in love with this man if you let yourself, and it’s a scary thought. Alex hadn’t been kidding when she said that Spencer was perfect for you. Then why was there this horrible pit in your stomach, like an anvil hovering over you?

The rest of the dinner went perfectly, Spencer pulling out your chair for you as you both prepared to leave. The air was crisp, just a little chilly — spring wasn’t quite ready to fully come out of hiding yet. There was a certain energy between you both; a sense of hope you had long forgotten, and as he walked you to your car, you couldn’t stop yourself from looking up and meeting his eyes.

You'd felt this way before... four years ago when you met the man you thought you'd spend the rest of your life with, and suddenly, the idea of going through that again... It scared the living daylights out of you. "This was really nice," you managed, looking at him.

“It was,” he agreed, his hands shoving into his pockets. “I’d like to see you again.” He said it casually, but his eyes betrayed him, like he was afraid you were going to refuse.

You swallowed, reminding yourself to take a breath. "Spencer, you're... really great. I mean, seriously, any girl would be lucky to go out with you," you said slowly. "But if I'm honest... I only came out tonight to get Alex off my back."

You can see the way it crushes him; the light in his eyes dimming. His shoulders drop and his head lowers, and you feel a wave of guilt overcome you, but your feet stay rooted to the ground.

“I’m sorry,” he said, but you know his words are meant more for his own failings than for you - you can see it in his body language, how he’s withdrawing into himself. What you expect is for him to walk away; instead, he looks back up at you, and you feel your heart break as your eyes meet his pained ones.

"I'm the one who should be sorry," you said softly. "I should never have..." You took a sharp breath. "I like you, Spencer. A lot, probably more than I'm ready for. But I just got out of a long-term relationship. I'm not ready to jump into another one, especially with someone who... who deserves a lot more."

“I-I don’t mind taking things slow,” he said, his voice soft as his eyes searched your face, and you knew he was telling you the truth. But he doesn’t deserve to be some kind of… emotional training wheels for you, as you work through a bad breakup. He deserves more than you’ve got to offer.

"Of course you don't," you said, with a tinge of fondness. "You're perfect."

"I think I'm far from perfect," he says, with a self-deprecating grin. "But I'd be happy to be, um... whatever it is you're ready for."

You don't want to say it, but he's really, really, really hard to say 'No' to, and the fact he was so genuine in wanting to be around you made your heart clench. You wanted to say 'yes' so desperately.

Maybe you should say 'yes'. Just to see what happens.

"It's a bad idea," you said reluctantly, your resolve crumbling.

"But it might be just what you need," Spencer said, and he's right - you hate it but you can feel the way he's pulling you in. The way those hazel eyes hold you; the way you just want to spend more time with him.

A mistake, you think to yourself, just as his hand slides down, his fingers slotting with yours. A glorious mistake.

"I don't want to do that to you," you murmured, even though all you wanted to do was kiss him and take him home and ruin him.

"Please," he murmured, stepping just a little closer, as if you had any resolve left at this point. "I'm a big boy. I can make that decision for myself."

The way he stepped so close to you made your skin tingle, and something deep within you tightened, and you were sure that Spencer could see it in your eyes. Your free hand lifted, sliding along his cheek. "I can't," you said, thumb gliding against his cheekbone. "I'm sorry."

Spencer stepped back, and you watch the way his face falls, your hand falling away to your side, but he nods, and the part of you that wasn't ready for this, was happy you'd made that decision. That he would stay safe and away from you - but then he leaned down, and before you can process what it was, he presses a warm kiss to your cheek. "I had a really nice time, tonight," Spencer murmured, and you can hear the sound of his footsteps leave before you can get your mouth to work again.

"Me too," you murmured into the air, sinking against your car, wondering if you'd just made the biggest mistake of your life, letting him slip through your fingers.

[jeffrrandell]

Explanation for the connection I made lol 👇

I'm gonna at least slightly explain Tord and Gravy being roommates. I'm not going to lie to you guys, this was a joke made because when my friends and I were watching "Technical Foul" from 8 Crazy Nights we were like "that's like if Tord crashed at Gravys house tbh" and then it turned into "Tord somehow becomes Gravys roommate after he leaves Edds house, for like maybe 2-3 years. And it's almost like a Disney movie. Tords just happy he has a place to stay, and he knows Gravy is just soooooo nice but man is he annoying. So he's not mean to him, he just is autistic and only ever likes Edd anyway basically. But he warms up to em. Gravy works a ton of jobs, and Tord cleans up around the house. And an odd but actually important detail is Gravy smokes weed (because of all of these jobs), and Tord took interest in that. Getting high together kinda made it easier for his nerves to be calmed down, and it made it easier for him to realize "oh Gravy is just a guy". Of course afterwards, Gravy turns back to jumpy goofy Gravy, but Tord learned to appreciate the energy. Tord and Blonzie were already slight acquaintances, actually before Tord met Gravy. Somehow for whatever reason Tord ends up at the auto shop he works at, probably asked about a pile of spare parts that looked like junk and Blonzie said "take em". So they had that for a while. They're mechanically intelligent together. Plus Tord finds his stunts REALLY cool, as he loves destruction too. He'd love to invent little things for him to try out. They also both have "I'm gonna be silent now" autism. Anyway, he never in his life expected for Gravy to be like "meet my boyfriend" and "oh whataya know, it's the guy that calls me Tiny and gives me spare parts". Not sure if it makes sense for Tord to still be living with Gravy when he gets with Blonzie or not, but either way they'd make a really weird fun trio. Gravy definitely opened up Tords weird side for him. Because Tord is just so closeted around everyone, even Edd didn't know a few secrets about him (for probably crush related reasons, intimidation.) But with Gravy, it sorta didn't matter to him what he told him. He'd listen, and I mean it's sad but. Gravys a huge loser who's pushed around EVERYDAY, and for a bit Tords view on that was "well he has it worse than I do so he can't judge me"

But yeah, they're friends lol

In a WTFuture timeline, this was also a joke that turned out to be something that we all kinda liked. I believe in Tord clone theory btw! Basically one day, Not Tord shows up to Gravys house one day. Reminder that if this is a bad timeline, Blonzie is dead sorry. But yeah Gravy notices something is off about him. Very off. Like, somehow this Tord knows Gravy would call him "buddy" buuut.. Tord never called HIM "buddy". Blah blah blah somehow Gravy is in the Red Army. And I don't mean as a soldier, the last thing Tord wants is for him to die actually. As in any timeline, Gravy will work a million jobs. And that's exactly what he does. I'm talking coffee runs and goofy shit like that. Because to me, yeah Red Leader is "WOAAHH crazy leader man scary he's taking over the world" but it's EDDSWORLD, so he's also "aw man. My helmet stinky" "play just dance with me I'm bored" like y'know. Before this concept, I was like "yup. Gravy is the first to die in this timeline" and then it turned into "Tord wants to keep him alive because he'd be dead bored without him"

And I'm serious it's gets so goofy. To a point where THIS Tord also opens up to Gravy, crying about Edd and being like "I'LL JUST GET RID OF ALL THE COKE IN THE WORLD I CANT LOOK AT IT ANYMORE!!" and then he's like "😲💡" and then Gravy talks about his feelings too.

Potentially as well, since Gravy is trained in medical, he could also technically take care of wounded soldiers and almost act as a doctor but ONLY back at headquarters, he's not allowed to go anywhere he'd be in danger. Anyways. Yup. My sick and twisted mind.

[tiki-was-here]

Ex boyfriend Black Leg Sanji x GN Baker Reader

Word Count: 1.2k Words

Reader and Snoj used to date for a while when he was at the Baratie,i know they move around alot but lets pretend that they stayed at reader’s town for a while cus business was really good.They broke up because although Sanji is a gentleman he was definitely not mature enough for an actual relationship. Also I didn't know how to end this don't shoot me

Valentines Event

Masterlist

The smell of vanilla and sugar filled the small bakery, the air warm and quiet .You were carefully piping an intricate lace pattern onto an elaborate cake .A towering thing, layered with deep red velvet and delicate, sugar-spun roses. Romantic, ridiculously so. It had taken hours, order placed at the last possible second, and the only reason you even agreed was because the person had offered more than enough money to make up for the trouble.

It was the kind of job that would normally require at least two days of work, but here you were, staying up way past closing hours because some snotty royal had placed a last-minute order under the name "Mr. Prince."

You hadn’t recognized the voice over the transponder snail so he must have been from out of town—it had been smooth, charming, and far too smug for your liking. The kind of voice that practically oozed privilege.

You hadn’t cared. Money was money, and business had been slower than usual.

-Still, the request had been absurd.

You yawned, rubbing the back of your flour-dusted hand against your forehead. It was almost midnight, and whoever this "Mr. Prince" was, they were taking their sweet time picking up the damn thing.but hey, if some rich bastard wanted to spend a fortune on a Valentine’s cake, who were you to complain?

Money is money, you reminded yourself.

The soft chime of the bakery’s front bell made you jolt. You hadn’t even heard footsteps outside. Straightening up, you wiped your hands on your apron and stepped out from behind the counter.

"Finally," you called out, irritation seeping into your voice. "I was starting to think you’d—"

You stopped mid-sentence, the words stuck in your throat.

There, standing in the doorway, was Sanji.

Your Sanji.

His blond hair was longer,shoulders broader, but it was his eyes that made something inside you clench tight.

The same piercing blue. The same warmth.

The same regret.

“…Hey, love.” His voice was soft, like he was afraid he’d scare you off. “Did you miss me?”

Oh, you were going to kill him.

"You? Are you serious? You are Mr. Prince?"

Sanji had the audacity to grin. "Guilty."

A flood of emotions surged through you.”You absolute bastard!" you snapped, stomping over to him and shoving a finger against his chest. "You really made me stay up all night for you?! Do you have any idea—"

His hand was suddenly on yours, wrapping around your wrist in a gentle, steady hold. "I know," he murmured, voice softer now. "And I’m sorry, truly. But if I gave you time to think about it, you might’ve said no to seeing me."

You opened your mouth to argue, but he wasn’t wrong. After all these years, you’d convinced yourself that if Sanji ever returned, you’d stay strong, keep your distance. You’d made peace with the past.

"You haven’t changed," you muttered, pulling your hand away.

Sanji chuckled, but there was something heavy in his eyes. "In some ways, maybe. But I have in the ways that matter. " There was something steadier in the way he held himself, something deeper in the way he watched you.

You exhaled sharply, running a hand through your hair. "Well anyways… what are you doing here?"

His expression softened. "I told you I’d come back for you. Didn’t I?"

Your heart lurched.

"That was years ago. You left, and I—" You took a step back, shaking your head. "I moved on. I had to."

"Did you?" he asked, voice low. "Because I never did."

Sanji took a step closer, slow, careful, as if you might bolt. "Every single day since I left, you were on my mind. When I fought, when I cooked, when I thought I was going to die—" He laughed, breathless, like he couldn’t believe it himself. "You have no idea how many times I almost turned back. How many times I imagined us standing here, just like this."

Your throat tightened. "Sanji…"

"—I know I don’t deserve to waltz back into your life expecting anything. But I had to try."

You stared at him, heart caught between anger and something dangerously close to longing.

"Sanji," you said carefully, "I told you before—"

"I remember." His gaze darkened slightly. "You told me you’d give me another chance when I was ready. When I could prove to you that I wasn’t just some flirt who couldn’t take us seriously."

You swallowed hard. You had said that. But after so many years, after seeing him on wanted posters, hearing whispers of his deeds across the Grand Line, you’d thought he’d long forgotten about you.

"And you think you’re ready now?" you asked quietly.

"I know I am," he said firmly. "I won’t lie to you, love. I still want all your attention on me. That much hasn’t changed. But everything else? I’ve grown. I’ve seen the world. And I’ve planned for this—for us."

For a long moment, neither of you spoke. The air between you was thick, every unspoken word, every lingering feeling pressing in from all sides.

Finally, you whispered, "I was always scared."

"Scared that I’d love you too much. That you’d leave, and I’d be stuck waiting." Your voice cracked. "And you did."

His fingers brushed against your cheek, featherlight. "I know. And I’m so fucking sorry love."

You closed your eyes, leaning into his touch before you could stop yourself. You hated how easily you melted under his warmth, how his presence felt like home after all these years.

"I want to believe you," you admitted. "But I don’t know if I can."

Sanji exhaled slowly, thumb tracing the curve of your cheek. "Then let me prove it to you. One step at a time.I’ll keep you safe. I swear it on my life," he said, voice fierce with conviction. "I won’t lose you again."

The words sent something warm and aching through you. Because the truth was, you had followed his journey. You’d worry every time you’d heard news of a battle, your heart sinking at every bounty increase, wondering if this would be the time he wouldn’t make it.

You had never stopped caring.

And fuck, looking at him now—stronger, older, still painfully beautiful—you knew you had never stopped loving him.

Your fingers curled into the fabric of his coat. "You really had this all planned out, huh?"

He grinned, but there was a flicker of nervousness behind it. "Only for the past few years."

You let out a soft, incredulous laugh, shaking your head. "Damn."

Then, before you could second-guess it, you tugged him down and kissed him.

Sanji froze for half a second before melting into you with a low, satisfied groan. His arms wrapped around your waist, pulling you flush against him, and for a moment, it was like no time had passed at all.

The warmth, the taste of him, the way he kissed you like you were the most precious thing in the world—it was all still the same.

You laughed softly, still breathless from the kiss. Maybe, just maybe, everything had worked out exactly as it was meant to.

And then—

"OI, SANJI! WHERE’S MY CAKE?!"

[astronomerzin]

Hii! I saw you asking for venti request and i couldn’t pass up the opportunity i rarely see someone writing for him anywaysss i thought of a cute little request how about venti freaking out about how to tell his long time s/o that he’s barbatos? Like he feels guilty for not telling the s/o like he’s deceiving them but he also don’t want them to see him as a god so he’s being an anxious mess for weeks and when he finally gets the courage to tell his s/o they just nonchalantly say they already know 😭😭 i’ll leave the ending to you and the s/o can be gender neutral so that everyone can read it :)

Venti x GN! Reader. | Venti revealing his secret! ⋆⑅˚₊⸜ 🍃‧₊˚✩彡 ,,

note: I'm sorry that it took me long to reply! School recitations went brrrrr— ಠ⁠益⁠ಠ anyway, I hope I didn't keep you waiting! I hope you'll enjoy this fic ^^ thanks for asking me this request btw! :3 this one is a bit crappy and short... I'm sorry for this sob. I didn't really have any ideas😧 and I'm not so proud of this bye

˚₊‧꒰ა ♡ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

Venti had always wanted to tell his beloved windblume the truth about himself. He was the Anemo Archon, the God of Wind and Freedom, and he had been watching over Mondstadt and its citizens for centuries.

He had been afraid of what your reaction will be. Would they treat him differently once they knew the truth? Would they be scared, or repulsed, or maybe even angry at him for keeping this secret for so long?

He had been planning on telling them for weeks, but something always seemed to come up. Either he would chicken out at the last moment, or just have a second thought about it. But today, he was ready to face his beloved about the truth.

He found you sitting on the sofa, reading a book quietly. He took a deep breath and slowly sat down next to you.

"hey, windblume.." he said in a soft tone. He slowly rested his head onto your shoulder while his hand slipped down to your waist, pulling you close to him.

"can we talk?" he asked, his heart pounding in his chest.

You turned your head to him and smiled before closing the book slowly. "Of course.. what is it?"

Venti took a deep breath, he was getting nervous. You noticed this and squeezed his hand gently, giving him reassurance. "..you can tell me everything, I promise I won't judge nor get mad unless it's something bad." you said in a soft tone.

Venti hesitated for a moment, his courage faltering for a brief instant. But the trust and love he saw in your eyes gave him the strength to continue. He slowly sighed once again "..Windblume, I hope you won't get mad at me for not telling you this sooner.." he mutters. "I'm the Anemo Archon.."

You stayed quiet for a brief moment before smiling softly. "I kinda actually knew.." you replied sheepishly.

Venti looked at you with slight wide eyes, shocked and confused. "I don't understand— how?" he asked.

"Remember when The Traveler came to save Mondstandt? I may or may not have accidentally eavesdropped when you and the others when you all went inside the Angel's Share to discuss the plan." you explained. "..sorry" you sighed.

Venti just gently shook his head and let out a soft sigh "no, no. It's okay, you didn't do anything wrong.. I should be the one who's sorry."

"I kept this truth about me from you— I actually feel so guilty hiding it from you for a long time now.." he briefly pauses before continuing "I just thought that, if you knew I was the god.. you'll only see me in that title." he mutters.

"Venti— it's okay.. I understand." You slowly and gently placed your hand on his cheek, caressing him like a fragile doll as he looks up at you with soft, loving, and worried gaze.

"Even if you are a god doesn't mean I only see you in that form of your title. All I see is Venti that I love so much.." you said in a soft tone and kissed his forehead. "I'll love you for who you are, God or not.." you smiled faintly.

Venti's lips quivered slightly and sighed. "Windblume.." he gives you a tight embrace.

"I love you so much.. Thank you."

[utilitycaster]

You've mentioned a couple of times about different ways the campaign could have shook out if they chose to keep Predathos sealed, and I'm curious if you think that option was on the table (and/or how late into the campaign it was on the table)? Maybe this is just me looking at the finale DMing choices and going "yikes" but the last chunk of the story very much felt like Matt having an idea of where they were going to go and shuffling the plot from point A to point B (even if that required NPCs making choices/not offering follow-up to PC choices). And I don't know if that's because they were so aimless before that point and he felt like he had to shuffle them to provide some kind of forward movement or if there was an intended outcome from the beginning.

I suppose we'll find out either tonight or in the wrap up, but my guess is that initially (like, from the start) Matt thought the party would be in favor of saving the gods and this would be straightforwardly about that; as I've said, moments like Tuldus and Hearthdell and Ludinus's backstory work as "we are humanizing the villains to make them more than mustache-twirling cartoons of pure evil"; they do not work as cohesive arguments in favor of said goals.

Once it was clear the party was also largely motivated by petty personal grievances it sort of fell apart, and I think the entire wandering about collecting flowers and shards/Ruidus mission/Aeor/Accord/Feywild situation was intended to give the party an opportunity to make up their mind; however, they simply didn't, and the last of that was exceptionally poorly run since the Arch Heart threw another complication (that was, as we know, not even something Matt had planned for) and Zathuda was somehow Yu But Worse in terms of "this person is a danger but we can't KILL THEM" "why?" "uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh" which really should have sealed that this was a party that does not make decisions.

I genuinely think he did not know at all where they were going with this until episode 118, when they did choose to unleash Predathos, and the party did not make up their mind until 119, when the Matron's option was essentially thrown at them because they were like uhhhhhhhhhh so we have Predathos, but we don't really all want to chase you away or have you be eaten? Like...my guess is the "gods enter the Luxon cycle of rebirth" was an option Matt had in mind overall for the campaign given the plot of Downfall, but he thought the party would land on it themselves in advance, go to Ruidus with that as the goal, and not need it spoonfed to them at the last possible minute. I think, really, that is the problem: this party was fucking stupid as hell, largely incurious, and didn't know what to do ever, and didn't want to be making any decisions but kept going into the places where they had make decisions anyway and then failing to do so. Honestly I said elsewhere a time crunch would have helped but the Matron straight up had to say WHAT DO YOU WANT to them during a magical pause in the final combat so I think that a pattern of "you snooze you lose" needed to have been established earlier.

But yeah I think that if the PCs had made different choices as late as episode 118-119 the plot would have gone somewhere else; the reason NPCs stepped in is because they did not make choices. It's a bit of the worst of both situations: took too long to pivot the plot on the DM side, took too long to decide on anything on the player side, ultimately DM had to kind of force the choice.

[love-byers]

Hi, I first want to say that I absolutely enjoy reading all your analysis! About Mike's monologue, I'm kinda playing the devil's advocate here, the actual line in the script is: "And I knew somehow then -- in that moment -- that I loved you." That's definitely better than "I knew right there and then", this was actually Finn paraphrasing, and yes they chose to keep it, but I don't think we should analyze that line that much when it's not even what the writers initially wrote.

I'm a Byler who believes Mike truly loved El, but this is a story of learning to let go of your first love. And Finn kinda confirmed that to me in his recent answers. It's a first love vs right love story.

Also, another interesting thing I found. The script says "But I am scared���that one day, you'll realize -- you don’t really need me." He says it like it's a fact: El doesn't really need him, that's not even a question. Mike is not scared of the eventuality of El not needing him, he's scared of her realizing that she doesn't. He knows deep down this love isn't right. Just like he said in the initial van scene script: "She's already beginning to understand she doesn't need me. I saw it -- I saw it in her eyes, that last time we talked."

To me, Mike has to learn to let go of his first love, El, in order to let in the right love, Will.

thank you!! :)

i don't rlly see how those lines are any different, the wording and addition of "somehow" doesn't change anything or make it better. it's still a statement, not a hyperbole, and a lie. the "in that moment" is the nail in the coffin. it pin points his realization on that moment specifically, so there is no way around it being untrue. if anything, the "somehow' makes it come off more like mike is acknowledging how outlandish it would be to know he loves her 2 seconds after seeing her for the first time in the woods in a rain storm, but claiming its the truth anyways. removing "somehow" makes it more so that mike is really leaning into it and pushing that its the truth, desperately wanting her to believe him. it would make sense that he wouldn't preface that with acknowledgement of how crazy it is, because he wants to seem assured and confident that its the truth, giving el no reason to doubt him.

i definitely think mike had romantic feelings for el, but i just don't think that ever crossed the line into true romantic love. he definitely grew to love el and appreciate her and care for her, but that was never tied to his romantic feelings for her. his true love for her is just not romantic. their relationship is built off of insecurity and attachment, which is why they stayed together for so long. i just don't think he was ever in love with her, nor was she in love with him. i don't argue with ppl who say it was a first love situation, because thats accurate enough. but i think a better description is puppy love. just like stancy vs jancy. stancy was immature, teenage puppy love built on physicality and a desire to feel normal. jancy was true love, built on natural chemistry, trust, respect, and emotional connection.

i just cant get behind saying mike fell out of love with el, cause i really don't think thats the case. i think they rlly highlight this in s3 with the mlvn breakup and byler fight. mike says el is the "most important thing to him in the world'. but, after she breaks up with him he does nothing. he goofs off with his friends in his basement and complains. he doesn't go after her or try to stop her, he doesn't go to her house to apologize, nothing. he does, however, do all those things when he and will fight and will leaves. i think its clearly implying who is more important to mike, just in the sense that one is true love and one is not. mike can't stand the idea of will being upset with him and potentially losing him because of it, it eats at him and he wants to make things right immediately. meanwhile he doesn't take his breakup wth el seriously at all. there is just no way mike is in love with her in these scenarios. and im sorry, but there's no way you can be in love with someone after knowing them for five days. i really just think he never was, he only thought he was.

and yesssss about the script!! mike states it as fact, like he has not a shadow of a doubt that its true. and we never see el soothe this insecurity of his after she finds out. we don't even see them speak. will is the only one who has ever addressed mikes insecurities and made him feel better. he is the only one who considers mike's feelings and stands up for him (And he doesn't deserve that.)

[dvstnbonesss]

"I love you...."

johnny cade x reader

︶ ⏝ ︶ ୨୧ ︶ ⏝ ︶

Johnny Cade is in love with y/n... his best friend of 9 years... and one night at the Curtis house, he confesses...

Warning: none! Just fluff and REALLY bad writing, fem! Reader 😭

I'm trying to find a style I like so just bear with this 😭😭

Poor Johnny Cade... inlove with his best friend of 9 years...

He told his other best friend Ponyboy, and his practical brother Dallas about you. Ponyboy trued to push him to just say how he feels, and Dally would roll his eyes and say "Shoot, kid. She gon' find anotha Johnnycake if ya don't get 'er now." That didn't help at all.

One day, while in the lot with Dallas, he turned the conversation about you. "Hey Dal, I know you an' Sylvia ain't talkin' no more but, you did love 'er right?" Johnny asked.

"Sorta, why Johnny? This about prettyface again?" Dally glanced at him, wrapping an arm around his shoulder to keep him warm, even though Dallas was more cold than Johnny.

"Yeah... 'm sorry for talkin' bout her so much... jus' can't help myself..." He said quietly, playing with the cigarette bud on the dirt.

"Jus' ask her silly, she's a good girl. You're a nice lookin' guy Johnny. Ask her out wit' big puppy dog eyes. She's at the Curtis house now." Dally laughed and checked out a girl passing the street.

"She is? Good... okay... I'll go... bye Dal..." He got up and brushed off his jeans.

"Bye bye, Johnnycake" Dallas gave him a thumbs up as he started walking towards the Curtis home. He was sweating, he was doubting that he'd actually ask you out. He just wanted to see you right now. He missed you dearly.

When he got to the door, he knocked slowly. Darry opened the door. "Hey kiddo, why're you here at this time of night?"

"Can I rest here tonight? The lots chilly..." He lied through his teeth, but Darry let him in anyways. He spotted you immediately.

"Hi, Johnnycake!" You gave him a sweet hug, he hugged you back nervously.

"Hi... y/n... what're you doin' here?" He murmured softly while staring down at you.

"Just hanging out, you?" You smiled and rubbed his shoulder.

"Lots cold... can we uh... go somewhere more warm...?" He whispered. When you nodded he felt like cheering. You both walked to the bathroom.

"Why'd you wanna come in here Johnny?" You asked and leaned against the bathroom counter.

"Uhm... uh... needed to ask..." He panicked.

"About?"

"I.... uhm... well..." He stuttered, he was freaking out.

"I'm sorta... kinda... uhm... inlovewithyou...." He mumbled.

"Huh?" You blinked.

"Mmm.... m.. iminlovewithyou...."

"Speak louder, stop mumbling Johnny..."

"I'm... love... you..." He blurted out. His palms were sweating, he didn’t feel so tuff, he wish he did, but he didn't.

"Johnny..." You slowly smiled and hugged him again. He was SHOCKED. You were hugging him? Did you love him too? 🤨

"I love you too, Johnny cake..."

WOAH. His jaw dropped. But, he immediately got excited and kissed you. You kissed back. It was a very sappy moment. Until it was interrupted by Ponyboy...

"Hey, uh... I sorta have to piss right now..." He blinked. Johnny pulled away from you reluctantly and dragged you out the bathroom so Ponyboy could use it. He leaned on the door when it closed and stared at you.

"I love you, y/n..."

︶ ⏝ ︶ ୨୧ ︶ ⏝ ︶

IM SORRY OF THIS IS BAD!!! BYE BYE 😕😕

[259kmvn]

weakness and strength

– baring your heart to kazuha | kazuha x gn!reader comfort fluff

"you're always so put together, y/n! how do you do it?" "wow, y/n. you've grown stronger." "i admire your enthusiasm to keep going."

every time someone says something of this sort to you, you smile and brush them off. it's really not like that, you say. i've still got a long way to go.

and you really do. you're not too sure how people come to these conclusions that you've got things under control. perhaps it's the fact that you always make an effort to smile regardless of how difficult times are. but times still do get difficult for you.

perhaps it's that you try to stand tall when things get chaotic. if there's nothing stable going on, you might as well be the stable one, right? but things still do get chaotic for you.

it's not always that you ponder upon these thoughts. usually, you would push them down and out of mind. you've got more important things to deal with anyway. but tonight, you sit at the top of a hill, heart heavy with the feelings you've been ignoring for so long. watching the moon and stars and clouds drift by.

the moon and stars and clouds- you wonder how many times they've seen your raw feelings already. you wonder how they've seen you the way no one else has, and still they continue to be there. until now, you've only ever allowed them to witness your heart.

"here you are, dove. i was looking for you."

tonight might be different, your heart whispers. a platinum-blond figure approaches your side, calm and unassuming. "can i sit beside you?"

without looking at him, you nod amidst your thoughts. he sits. as soon as he does, a gentle wind blows, and you're showered by the falling leaves of a nearby tree. a stillness follows and the both of you continue to observe the nature around you. you the sky, and him the bustling world below. if the atmosphere was peaceful before his arrival, it's even more serene now.

kazuha seems to do that to you.

it's been a while since you started a relationship with him. you're both explorers of the world, wandering to see what the universe has to offer. you're the one who approached him first. he's the one who confessed. surprisingly, it didn't take long for him to open up to you. you've heard his stories, his grief and anger, and you've even seen him cry. he seems to be completely in tune with his emotions.

you, on the other hand, still need a bit more time.

"kazuha," you call out the name of your partner. he turns to you; noting the little glimmer running down your cheek. he hums in response, preparing to open his heart to receive yours. "do you.." for a bit your voice shakes and you take a deep breath, "do you think i'm- i'm strong? like i've got things under control?"

kazuha scans your side profile. you're still looking at the moon, perhaps fearful to show him your fully vulnerable self just yet. "it would appear so at times," he answers truthfully, "although occasionally you seem to avoid the 'things' you need under control." he's treading carefully with his words while being honest. you appreciate that. "these are mere speculations, however. why do you ask?"

this time you look down. your eyes may land on the nightlife happening below, but you're really looking into the thoughts that reside in your heart. "i just, people tell me these things, that- that they think i'm strong. and i never know how to reply. i get scared, and i.. i honestly don't know why." your voice trails off in a fragile whisper.

you grapple with a wave of fear that is overcoming your chest. it's the first time you've ever said something like this to him, and although you know he won't ever hurt you (because he said so), there's still that fear. that he'll shut you down. or run away.

but he doesn't do any of that. in fact, he doesn't do anything. you turn to look at him, and he's waiting; waiting for you to continue. you see a small smile form on his lips. an acknowledgment- to tell you he's listening.

shifting in the silence, you continue. "i don't know what i'm scared of. i just, i think 'what if i'm not as strong as they think i am?'. or, 'i'm gonna break down soon enough and i can't let them see that.'" your heartbeat wavers as you speak your very fears out for your lover to hear.

"i'm not strong. i'm not strong at all. look at me," you gesture to yourself, finding that your trickles of tears have turned to rivers, "i'm crying over these little things and i've made so many mistakes and i don't know what i'm doing and i- i can't-"

you start sobbing.

you sob like there's molten lava stuck in your throat, and you sob like the weight of a boulder is lending itself on your shoulders. pulling your knees to your chest, you curl in. maybe it wasn't a good idea to do this after all. you definitely need to apologise to your partner for this.

"i'm sorry, kazuha," you mumble into your knees, "i just-"

"i see no need to apologise," he interrupts. hearing his voice feels like receiving a hug- or maybe it's his actual arm draping across your shoulders. rubbing your arm slowly. you sit like that for a while, crying and catching your hitching breath that only leads to more tears.

and then, when your sobbing slows, he asks, "do you mind if i share my thoughts?"

you shake your head, giving him permission to respond to you.

"it is my belief that you have your strengths and weaknesses, as everyone does. after all, is it not that nature shines when it wills, and cries when it wills?" in typical kazuha fashion, he speaks his truth through his love for beautiful words.

"even when nature cries, i would not call it 'weakness'. believe me, dove, you have not seen the dangers of a storm at sea."

you smile softly at that. his light and genuine tone compels you to look at him as he speaks- so you recollect your composure and turn to him, resting your tilted head on your knees. his hand lets go of your shoulder and he places it on a nearby ground, leaning back as he gifts you a reassuring smile.

immediately you're confounded by the brightness in his face, almost like he's reflecting the moon's shine. it's like the moon is still witnessing you, but through him this time.

"i have seen your smile, dove, and i want to keep seeing it," kazuha lays out his wishes. you nod- that's what everyone says, after all. everyone wants to see you smile. "but i also wish to see you cry and be sad. i wish to witness your anger- well, only if it's not directed at me."

you giggle. is it even possible to be mad at a person like kazuha?

"i wish to witness your every emotion, dove." this time, he looks up- at the moon. "i would like you to know that i envy it." he pauses, and you raise your head. eyes still on him.

"it?"

"the moon. how has it seen more of you than i have?" a shocked blush creeps onto your cheeks. "maybe the trees have too, as well as this hill, and the very walls of your home. ah.. i truly envy them all."

he turns to you in a calm excitement- "you will show me, will you not? your thoughts and emotions, strengths and weaknesses? you need not constrain them when you are with me." before you could respond, he continues, "and i will show you mine."

you immediately recall the time he cried in front of you. his is a promise you know he'll keep, precisely because he's done it before he even promised it. you breathe in deeply.

"i will, kazuha," the whisper in your voice is grateful, "...thank you. honestly... you're like a moon to me. my very own moon. i appreciate you, a lot."

kazuha wipes away the weeping teardrops on your cheek, not to stop you from crying but to let you know he's ready to receive them.

"thank you for showing me, and telling me your thoughts, my dove," he says.

a breeze visits, washing away the weight of your heart along with the fallen leaves around you.

"thank you, for witnessing me... my moon."

[mikaazune]

Hey guys, Ferris here. First things first, I'm back. My break wasn't as long as I thought it would be, but I think I'm doing a lot better. I think it did me some good to unplug for even just a little bit — not just from Tumblr, I pretty much went on a social media detox. Plus, I missed you guys.

There are a few things I'm going to be doing following me coming back. First is a new blog theme, which I think I'll keep for a while (I'll probably revamp the magician one on a later date). Love Hacker, he's a real one.

Second, as you probably noticed, I have new user too. I hope that doesn't confuse too many people. One change I'd like to make regarding that is the name that yall call me. I like Ferris, but I think I still subconsciously associate it with my old blog and then I begin comparing back then to now �� something I'd rather not do mostly because of some of the issues I mentioned in my previous post. So I'll be going solely by Mika now, though I'll let yall known if anything changes in that regard.

Third, I mentioned this in my earlier post, but I'm taking a break from writing. For one, I'm not fond of my current writing style and I want to improve it. We'll see how that goes, I just want to experiment a little. I also want to reevaluate the fandoms and the characters I write for, and I'll probably spend some time rewatching/replaying so I can gain a better understanding of each character. But as I said, since I'm pausing writing, that second part will be a bit of a future me "problem" to deal with. My posted fics will still remain, don't worry.

Fourth, in terms of Faridian, that's still on pause as well. I'm slowly losing motivation due to lack of interest in the plot — I know, I wrote the thing, my bad there. I just didn't plan things out properly because I was excited to get it started, which was my mistake since I rushed it. I actually did like the later part of the plot, but it's the beginning and middle that are getting me. But on that note, do the participants like how it's going, or do you guys agree that I should change some stuff up? I acknowledge that everyone's in the beginning stage, though, so you guys don't really have the full perspective I do. Side note: just out of curiosity, would people be interested in me revamping Spirelands? Not any time soon so I can actually do the plot and not be a dumby, just gauging interest.

Anyways, with all that being said, I'm back. If I come up with anything else that needs saying, I'll mention it. If there are any questions, feel free to ask them. Thanks for the well wishes by the way; don't worry, I'll take better care of myself from now on.

@xryptik @lyle-my-beloved @xen-blank @edith-is-a-cat @tenjikyu @unprofessionalsimp @nervocat @nightmare-in-the-woods @floydsteeth @officialdaydreamer00 @cookiesandbiscuits @rainynightmoonlight @koihanwrites @casp1an-sea @vivisboutique @tako-cafe @creatorbiaze @l7k-a

[dracoroma]

Now that the campaign is over, I think I should drop my full thoughts.

As a start: I intitally liked the finale for the most part. We'll get back to why I said initially. However, I have one major gripe.

The first is that reviving Ashton really fealt like it cheapened their sacrifice. It was such an interesting choice that they gave up their life purely out of spite. In Ashton's eyes, it wasn't about saving the gods, it was about humbling them. That's fun, and interesting, and as much as I have feelings about Aston that we'll get back to later, it was cool. And I also think it left their budding relationship with Fearne off on an interesting note. All of that is completely undone by reviving them.

Anyway, onto the campaign.

I was really into the game in its initial sandboxy arc. The cast was fun and their interactions were all neat, and Inwas interested where the plot was going.

And then the god plot came in. And I have so many feelings.

As a religious person (hellenist and heathen), I felt constantly letdown this entire story. At the end of the day, there was no real evidence given in a pro or anti god direction. We're told they're tyrants who have too much control over mortals, but most people have problems because of a lack of intervention. The divine gate keeps demons and devils at bay, but there's other sources for that. There's no consequences to any option. And because of that, we're left with endless debate because we have no solid evidence.

All of this leads to the debate just turning into teal world reddit aetheist plot points because there's nothing in world to debate. This also felt incredibly dismissive of actual faith. Do I need to remind everyone how Ashton would not let FCG just be at peace with worshipping Avandra? That was incredibly frustrating. They also don't address at all how getting rid of the gods affects those who gind meaning in religion. The Hells and Keyleth were just like, "eh. Get over it. World's still spinning. " Excuse me, did we forget how much meaning Fjord told the hells he got out of his relationship with Melora!?

From a writer's perspective: well, all of this. But it was also incredibly boring because it means nothing is happening. This wasn't a complex, morally grey debate because there was absolutely no nuance. We don't see how the gods (or, in particular, the primes, because we know the betrayers all suck) are bad, and how things will be fine forever without them. So it's an endless de ate with no point that follows the same formula every time: same 3 points why gods are bad. Someone says "hmmm, i don't know". We end by saying "let's kill Ludanis because he sucks".

And frankly, nothing was happening for so long. So much of the campaign is an indistinguishable blob of time in my memory, with the standout moment being Aeor. And I think Ahton is the perfect case study. Talesin is on record saying Ashton was a critique of the obnoxious parts of the punk mindset, and they had no character growth. Their character development after shardgate reverted soon after, and their position was always completely dismissive of any other perspective.

All that being said, the most fun I had in the campaign was actually the live show. In part because I caught it live. I was on a family trip in the area already, and so my girlfriend and I made it to the show. And frankly, it was a really good session. It was mostly self-contained, which was good for her, who had not seen a single session of C3. It didn't involve the god debate, which was good for me. And it introduced Breius, who I genuinely think is one of the best PCs of the campaign despite coming in late.

Because Breius is sich a good deconstruction of cults and toxic relationships and why they're appealing, why you come back, and he ended up breaking free at the end!

But, now I think about the finale again. And I'm less positive about it than I was. Because I realize that most of why Infelt good was because this mess of a campaign is finally over. I overlooked how Orym and Opal and Imogen did not face lasting effects from their actions because I was so ready to be done with the god debate that goes nowhere.

[lostbetweenvampiresandmusic]

I'd love to request something then 🥰. A David & Dwayne x fem!reader. She lives alone in Santa Carla after escaping her family and she has a hard time adjusting, bc she's introvert and insecure about herself (chubby, scars due to abusive and SH past etc etc). The boys are attracted to, her darkness if that makes sense (I hope it's fine!!). The boys wanna take her it with them, & David & Dwayne eventually realizing she's their mate? (fluff is fine, even a bit more if you're fine with that!)

I hope you like this! After finishing this, I realise I kind of strayed away from your prompt, but I hope you'll still enjoy it!💜

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

The room was quiet. Dark. Cold. I sighed as I turned around in my bed, pulling the blankets over me again. Tomorrow I'd really have to call the water company and the electrician. I had bought this place on a whim, needing to have something to call my own, and I hadn't paid any attention to the details mentioned in the listing.

I wish I had now, now that I felt like my toes were freezing off. Still, I thought as I curled up in myself, it was still not as bad as it was before.

It was hours later when I woke up, the sun high in the sky already. I sighed, grabbing a warm sweater and some thick socks to keep myself warm. I quickly brushed my teeth, deciding to ignore breakfast until after I made the necessary phone calls. I took a deep breath as I walked to the landline, thankful that that one was, in fact, working. Silently, I repeated the rehearsed frases in my head.

"Hi, do I speak with the company? I need some help, because the thing isn't working in my new house."

It would be something like that, I figured. Nothing too complicated. Just two easy sentences. I could do this. I picked up the phone, dialling the number for the watercompany. It rang.

Once. Twice.

Please leave a message after -

Frustrated, I dropped the horn on its hook, redialing the number. This time, I had more luck getting an answer.

"Yeah?"

"You're the watercompany, right?" I asked, my voice more unsure than I would have liked.

"Yeah."

"My house isn't connected, it seems. Can that like - maybe, I don't know, ehm - be fixed? I mean," I laughed, although it was more out of awkwardness and despair than out of actual joy, "I'd really like to have some water here."

"Yeah."

I sighed, giving more of my information. All the guy on the phone said was yeah, as if he had never learnt to speak another word whatsoever. Still, I had been told that someone would be by this afternoon. I then rang the electrician, who was way more pleasant on the phone. He was in the area, offering to come by within the hour.

I'd agreed readily.

The electrician, Henry, a man who reminded me of my late grandfather, was done quickly. It had been a matter of some cables not connecting well, and now I was the proud owner of a house with a working light bulb. Small victories, and all that.

"So, what made you decide to move to the murder capital of the world?"

"I needed a fresh start - wait, did you say murder capital?" I asked with a frown as I walked him to the door.

He nodded. "Lots of people end up missing or dead. We don't know why, but it happens. Hence the name."

"Crap... that's why the house was so cheep."

"Maybe," the man chuckled, "but despite there being some truths to the disappearances, I doubt you'd be in any danger. You don't seem like a party animal to me."

I nodded. "So, as long as I stay clear from parties I'd be fine?"

"Most likely, yeah. Anyways, don't stress about it too much. You're young, go to the boardwalk some time, and enjoy yourself."

He had been gone for less than ten minutes, or some guy from the watercompany rang the doorbell, and went to work without saying much to me.

It was hours later when he was done, but I had water. And electricity. I could cook, shower, bathe - I sighed as I let myself fall on the couch, I was too tired to do any of those things. There had been too many people today, and I just needed some desperate alone time just for me. I was really thankful now that I'd bought some frozen pizzas on my way here, and as I turned the oven on, I couldn't help but wonder if moving here, leaving home and all it's miseries behind, if it was worth it.

"Someone moved into the old Emerson place," Paul stated as he entered the cave. He had a plastic bag in his hand, and couple of boxes with Chinese filling it.

"So?" David looked at him.

"Just thought you should know," he shrugged. It didn't matter much, but every since that night, a couple of years ago, they avoided that area of town as much as they could.

"As long as they don't go digging in the backyard, we have nothing to worry about, " Dwayne shrugged.

"She doesn't seem the type."

"You stayed long enough to stalk her?" Marko chuckled, shaking his head.

Paul threw a carton box towards him, grinning as it hit his head. "Nope, I just don't think that this quiet thing would go outside."

I woke up late the next day. I had only been here for a few days, and I had not once woken up before noon. Before, I always awoke around six thirty, doing my chores and other things that needed to be done. Never, not ever, had I been able to sleep in. So why was I able to now?

Was it because I finally had a place of my own? I finally experienced freedom? Or was i getting sick?

I shook my head, taking a deep breath as I got up. Today, I needed to make a trip to the boardwalk. I needed some paints for my rooms, and maybe it would be good for me to actually leave the house for once. Not that I necessarily liked the idea, but I also knew that interacting with others would be good. If only for a little while.

I spent the rest of the day getting ready. I picked some loose-fitting clothing, warm enough for the autumn breeze that was blowing coldly over Santa Carla. I pulled on some black leather boots, brushing my hair quickly as I decided to forgo any makeup for today. This wasn't going to be a long trip.

It was nearing sunset as I entered the boardwalk, the place more crowded than I would have liked. People were everywhere, pushing and moving, tugging others along. I had no choice but to let myself drift along with the crowd, slowly making my way away from the stream when I saw a small hardware store located near what seemed to be a videostore.

I was thankful to no longer be stuck in the crowd and pushed the door to the store open, right into someone's face. I froze, staring wide-eyed at the man in front of me. He was tall, an almost scary look on his face as he looked at me, his brunet hair falling down his face.

"I- I am so sorry, I didn't-"

He looked at me, causing me to feel flustered. He truly was rather handsome. Too handsome for me, I knew that. But still, one can dream, right?

"It's fine," he said, his voice deeper than I'd expected. I looked after him as he left, shaking my head slightly as I tried to remove his image from my brain. I quickly picked some paints - a dark blue and ocher yellow, a colourmatch I'd loved for ages - and paid for them. I left the store, walking down the boardwalk to the entrance.

It was getting busier and I just wanted to go home. I walked further, the plastic bag with paint cans in my hands as I heard the rumbling engine of a motorcycle behind me.

"You need a ride?"

I looked up and saw that it was the guy I'd run into in the hardware store.

"It's alright," I said quietly, not sure if he heard me.

"You sure? There are not too many houses around here, and it's not a good idea to be out alone in the dark."

I shook my head, remembering how former classmates repeatedly reassured me that I didn't have to worry about that because kidnappers and rapists would pick someone prettier. Assholes that they were. I sighed, looking at the guy.

"Why would you offer me a ride?"

He shrugged. "Why not? Besides, it's already getting late, and I imagine you'd rather be home before morning."

I looked at my watch and realised he was right. "Thank you," I said gratefully as I got on the back of his bike with his assistance. I introduced myself, but he didn't respond with his name. Instead he drove off, straight to my home.

"How do you know where I live?" I asked him confused as I got off.

"This was the only house for sale in the last couple of weeks. And since you're new-"

"Am I that obvious?"

"No," he gave me a small smile, "we just come down to the boardwalk almost daily. We know everyone's faces, just not yours. Not yet."

"Maybe you will," I said quietly, quietly wondering what it was that made me say this. As if I'd ever go back to the boardwalk while it was so busy at night.

"I'll see you around, love," he said, stepping back on his bike.

"Wait, what's you're name?"

"I'm Dwayne."

With that he drove off.

"And?" David looked at Dwayne as he entered the cave last.

"She's sweet. Harmless." He couldn't help but grin. "There's something about her."

"Yeah?"

"She's not just another run away. There's something more. Like she's seen things that she shouldn't have."

David nodded. "You think it is her?"

Dwayne thought about it. For days, the two of them had felt the pull of a third and final mate bond. The bond was forming quickly and steadily, and soon, they'd be able to follow their gut feeling towards their mate. But for now? Dwayne nodded.

"She seemed more level-headed than us, but I am quite certain she can live like we do."

"Maybe I'll meet her tomorrow," David shrugged, standing up. "If i come to the same conclusion as you, we'll need to make her ours."

I groaned as I opened my fridge. All day, I had been working on painting my room, forgetting the necessity of making a trip to the grocery store. Now it was night, I had yet to eat dinner, and all I had in my fridge was an old bottle of coke.

"Guess I'll go to the boardwalk..." I mumbled, taking my paint spattered clothes of and quickly changing into something clean. I didn't stop to look in the mirror before I went, a thing I would regret later on, I'm certain. At that moment, it didn't matter. I needed food, and the only place I was going to get that at this hour was the boardwalk.

It took me about an hour to get there, and I had just enough luck on my side that the Chinese place was still open and serving as I entered. I greeted the owner, placed my order, and sat down on a bench, waiting for my order to be called.

"So you've been painting all day, hm?" I looked up, seeing two men in front of me. Dwayne and some other guy.

"How did you know?" I frowned slightly.

"You've got a blue streak on your cheek."

I tried to stand up to go to the bathroom to clean myself up, but found myself unable to do so as the guy went to sit down next to me. I shoved over a bit, feeling just the slightest hint uncomfortable.

"How do you like Santa Carla?"

"I don't know, it's okay, I guess?" I shrugged.

"You haven't had a chance to see it?" Dwayne asked. I shook my head.

"I've got a lot to do at home, and-" I shook my head. It didn't matter.

"And what?" The other guy, who had yet to introduce himself, looked at me.

"I just don't like crowds," I decided quickly before asking his name.

"David," he said, "and what if we can over you Santa Carla without the crowds?"

"Good luck with that," I muttered, sceptical. As if that was ever going to happen.

"No, you'll see," Dwayne chuckled, "David's right. How about we pick you up tomorrow and show you around?"

I was quiet for a moment, before nodding. "What time?"

"Ten. Things will have quieted down here."

Time passed quickly, and as I woke up the next afternoon, I couldn't help but wonder why i had agreed to this date. I had liked the conversation we'd had, sure. But to go on a date? Later that evening, David had even explicitly called it that, and I hadn't even corrected him. And then a date with the two of them?

I didn't mind that, truly, they were both incredibly handsome and as far as I could tell with how little I know them, kind and somewhat sweet - but still. It was a bit, odd, wasn't it?

The rest of the day, I worked on decorating my house, making sure I was ready to go by ten. I'd opted to wear a dress, liking the way it flowed around my legs. Despite the warmth of the evening, I decided to wear a black cardigan on top, completing my outfit.

"Damn," Dwayne grinned as he saw me, causing me to smile shyly. David stood behind him, waiting on his bike.

"You look nice," he said as he offered me a seat. I got on behind him, and we made our way to the boardwalk.

Just as he had promised, like they'd both promised, the boardwalk was practically empty tonight. I didn't know how they'd done it, but it felt incredible. No crowds to drown in, no people pulling you one way when you wanted to go another... I let the two of them guide me over the boardwalk, taking me on rides. We talked about everything, from favourite colours to deepest fears, from hobbies to pet peeves - it was incredible to get to know them, to see them and to let them get to know me.

Even though I had only known Dwayne for three days and David for two, I felt like I had known them all my life, like they were a missing piece of the puzzle I called myself.

As they said goodbye when it was close to sunrise, I couldn't help but melt in their arms as they both pressed a soft kiss on my cheek.

Yeah, I decided quietly. This was it.

In the days that followed, I kept hanging out with them. They'd stop by sometime during the night, taking me to the boardwalk whenever most of the crowds had left. I had met their friends, Paul and Marko, and I had a hard time admitting to myself that I actually enjoyed their company.

I had known them for a month when they took me to their place, this strange yet almost magical cave. It was there that they told me what they were.

I hadn't known what to do, so I hadn't done anything. It was a horrifying thought, but then again, a part of me truly loved them. A part of me couldn't live without them. So, despite refusing to drink and become one of them, I did accept them.

It just took me a day or two. Three.

But once I did accept it, our bond grew only stronger. No longer could I imagine not spending the night with them. No longer could I stand the thought of not seeing them. I stayed over at their place, sleeping between them almost as often as they stayed at mine. We talked, more deeply than before, them answering as honest as they could when I asked them about their immortality.

It was then, five weeks after I learnt what they were, three months after I met them, that i decided to become like them. I was theirs, and I couldn't live with the thought of letting them wake up one day without me. Nor did I want to wake up without them.

So, when David offered once again, I drank, sealing my fate as their mate.

[pall0r-mortis]

Quite directly, James was a better person than himself. Sid didn't even need to have the conversation to assume that much, because it was the sort of thing that he could assume about basically anyone. Even in those moments, fleeting as they were, where he was in fact something resembling a good person himself they usually had some sort of underlying selfish point to them, didn't they? Wasn't that why people were good people? Maybe not because they needed to hear that they were good people, although some definitely followed that point of view, so because people did good things when it felt good to do them.

He wasn't looking for sympathy, he didn't actually know fully what sympathy looked like in the first place, or some part of him felt like sympathy was a close cousin to failure and expectation; it was the expectation of making an impact on other people and when it came down to that logic Sid whatever preferred to just not.

"I said I didn't like the things they threw at me," he clarified, "and I don't, because eventually you have to wake up." And he didn't think he was the only one who had that outlook; he wasn't special, life was varying degrees of difficult to face in the morning for everyone. There was shockingly little unique about the human experience.

"And, no, that's not what I mean. I mean I don't get-" Sid's lips drew to a thin line the way they always did when he was thinking, "that. Waiting. Time doesn't-nevermind," he relented to the fact that just because time felt very crushing to him it probably didn't to most people. Anyway.

While he was content to be a metaphorical ghost, other people were not; and when he could hear the frustration and the anger start to bleed into James' voice it was a reminder to both of them that that stubborn idiot was still alive.

"Like what?" It was more James' turn to be angry, to have something to be angry at, since he apparently couldn't allow himself to be angry at the entire world for how truly messed up his situation was or unfair life could be; Sid didn't bother to redirect that anger because it had to go somewhere anyway. "Cereal is a low bar, and obviously you're going to be back on your feet eventually, I don't think either of those really counts as wants."

His shoulders dropped, it was mostly a shrug. "You got on my case at the auction about the date thing, but you're on a date now, so obviously you're wrong about some of your expectations." Not that it was the most shiny example. "Although you might want to lower those on this example specifically right now since I keep fucking it up, this time."

Hell, it was still a matter of principle, even if that principal felt far more convoluted the more that he talked to James instead of just yelling at him from the other side of the street.

"You are out in the social world though. Keep that up and you'll be the life of the party again before long, Princess."

@captainjamesjoneshook

@pall0r-mortis

...jeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeez, what was wrong with this guy?

Actually, James didn't want to know. It was probably very sad and very heartbreaking. If he heard it, it would no doubt pull at the empathy he unfortunately harbored within and then he would feel guilty for not liking him and– there was always a reason people acted the way they did. It would be easier to believe people were just mean or annoying for the sake of it, because then there was no reason to give it right back.

Or, you could be like his dad and not care what anyone's story was and just be mean to them anyway.

Either way, James figured it was probably better to not get into the nitty gritty. The real nitty gritty, anyway. Not the kid or marriage talk he'd been joking with before– the stuff that would actually strike nerves and turn this into an actual fight rather than a game. Especially with the dad talk. He didn't know that Sid had come prepared for a cage match, but James wasn't sure he'd make it out of it alive. As satisfying as it would be to get the first punch off, Sid seemed like he had reserves for days and James would be reduced to nothing but a smear on the pavement.

Besides, it wasn't like Sid would want him to ask, right? This was a joke. He didn't actually give a shit about James, he was just trying to get James to give a shit about him to have a laugh. Or something. He still hadn't figured that bit out yet.

"You did, you said–!" James started to reply only to stop himself. He breathed in deeply and let it go. "Whatever. Moving on; Yes. I have stuff I want to do in mind, but like I said, when I can do them will depend on when I can recover. That takes a while, you know? I'm– I'm relearning a whole bunch of shit that used to be easy! Sorry I can't have any large ambitions when I'm takes me half an hour to gather everything for a bowl of bloody cereal– it's not as if I don't want to do things but I can't right now!"

And whoops, he'd gotten heated anyway.