#apparently there's supposed to be a continuation but???

[cvnntagious]

:: babydaddy!matt has no problem sticking up for brat!reader

matt wasn't the type to get easily riled up—especially not to where he felt the need to get physical about it. he was more the type to talk things out, most would say. and that's exactly why it was such a shock when you made your way towards the commotion in the living room to see matt with a guy under him, fists of fury hammering into the poor dude's face.

for a moment, you contemplated if this was something you even wanted to involve yourself in, given is was your child's father. but when matt's hand continued coming down repeatedly with no sign of stopping any time soon, his opposer barely fighting back at this point, you couldn't find it in him to let him just keep kicking this guy when he was so clearly down.

giving a harsh tug on matt's plain black t-shit, you pulled him off like he were a misbehaving dog. his head snapped back to see who had grabbed him, brows unfurrowing the moment he came face to face with you.

his breathing was ragged, waiting for you to berate him as the people surrounding you two scrambled to stop the guy who was once lying on yhe dloor from standing up. to his surprise, you pulled him along with an annoyed grunt, slipping out of the party amidst the chaos of the fight. "where're we going?" matt asked, only to be ignored as he followed behind you until you guys were far from the house.

"i knew this was a stupid idea," you finally muttered, letting go of his wrist to turn and look up at him as you two stood in front of his car. your eyes, scanned his face, maneuvering your head to get a good look at any injuries he may have.

matt's mouth opened, wanting to explain. he knew you didn't want to hear it. "m'not hurt," he replied simply, shaking his head as his eyes finally met yours.

you clicked your tongue, giving him a deep sigh as your eyes rolled for what already felt like the millionth time tonight. "what's your problem?" you asked, addressing the big fat elephant standing right in front of your guys' faces, "forget you're an adult now, hm? have been for almost five years... fighting's how you catch cases, dumbass."

the scoff that left his lips made you want to slap some sense into matt, giving him a look that said, 'are you a fucking idiot?' as you waited for whatever lame excuse he might conjur up. but you should've known better than that. you knew matt had never been the type to go out fighting recklessly, so you should've known something had seriously bothered him. and the fact that something so simple had slipped your mind made his reasoning all the more shocking. "kid was talking shit," he answered, eyes averting to look anywhere but you, one hand coming up to rest on his hip as if he were embarrassed to admit it.

again, you weren't paying enough attention. "yeah? what, he said your fancy little carharts weren't cool enough or something? so you had to go and risk literal jail time?" you insulted, growing increasingly more annoyed with each passing second, "i mean, seriously, i don't know what i'd do if that guy chooses to press charges—you better hope nobody recorded that."

matt looked at you with a softness to his eyes, feeling his chest tightening a bit at your words; for a moment, those last few sentences made it feel like you needed him. of course, he knew in the back of his mind that you were thinking of mazzy, but he'd like to remain at least the slightest bit delusional in the moment. "come on," he scoffed again, "it was about you... the guy was talkin' shit 'bout you. was i supposed to jus' let him?"

the confession made your breath hitch a little, head pulling back and brows furrowing in a mild confusion. then, you came back to your senses, the attitude rising within you apparent on your features. "what'd he say?" you asked with a quick work of your neck.

"s'nothing important." matt was quick to brush you off, a certain coldness washing over him.

"really? then why'd you fight about it," you pressed on, a brow raising as if to tell him you simply didn't believe him.

he shook his head, mouth openining and closing as matt thought of an excuse. he couldn't – or, moreover, he didn't want to lie to you. "jus' spewin' some bullshit about you, like, bein' overly difficult... said you rejected him an' shit earlier. i guess he was upset about it," he answered, realizing he may have overreacted a bit now that he was explaining it out loud.

"that's all?"

matt shot you a confused look, shrugging a bit. "yeah—i mean, i also saw him tryin' t'grab on you earlier, so..." even that that wasn't really all, truthfully. it was the way the guy was so persistent, eager to start some sort of smear campaign against you between all of his friends. his lack of regard for matt as he badmouthed you, knowing what matt was to you. what you meant to matt.

you were quick to push past him, another annoyed grunt as you shoulder checked him. "just let him talk next time," you mumbled through gritted teeth, "that's not your battle."

matt turned and watched you walk away, in utter disbelief that this was how he was getting treated for standing up for you. of course it was his battle. who else was going to fight it? you? absolutely not. that guy got what was coming to him, saying whatever so carelessly.

"stay if you want," you called back, head turning to look at him, "m'gonna stop by your house to pick up mazzy from chris and nick."

w/c : 971 taglist : @mattsturnswife, @br1annax, @x0x0bunny, @m4ttsmunch, @mattsnumberonehoe, @k4yd1, @sturnobsessedwh0re, @sturnstar169, @bxtchboy69, @strnilolover, @little-miss-shay, @sweetobservationface requested by anon.

[nemisuki]

Metal Love

Robot AU | She was the first successful experiment, created by the government to protect UA students from potential harm. And he was the troublemaker, who needed to be monitored more than others. 

᧔o᧓ || katsuki bakugo x f!reader, no manga spoilers, no nsfw, pure fluff, very dense reader, protective + jealous bkg, aged up to third years, bakusquad mentions, silly moments, bkg has feelings, open ending, 3k word count

“For a robot, she’s pretty cute huh?” 

That's practically the topic of all whispered chatter as Class 3A enters the cafeteria. It made his scowl deepen with disgust. 

The constant focus was always about a “student” among the third years. 

An advanced technology sent in by the Japanese government. 

More specifically, the first successful model. 

Apparently she was scientifically created using human DNA, hence her appearance is nothing unusual. Especially in today's age, where the connection of society and mutant-type quirks, heteromorphs, are so common. 

Though she did have mechanical features regarding her prosthetic arms, built perfectly for combat and defense. 

A perfect soldier - Model #8307. 

Despite being the ideal android, there is one thing she lacked : human emotion

Thus the government sent her to UA High School on a sole mission.

To protect Class 3A til graduation. 

Hoping she’ll develop an understanding on what it means to be human along the way. To have feelings.  

It's notorious all around Japan.

Since those specific students entered UA, trouble seems to follow them everywhere.   

So after many precautions and examinations, the government sent the model over for a test run. Finding it beneficial for everyone.

Given a scenario where some villains were to attack the school, as coded into her programming, she would alert the authorities and defend until help arrived.

If done well, more of these creations would be produced to enhance the safety of all schools and buildings. Pushing Japan to be the first country with a solid line of defense that requires less human labor and lives to be lost in battle.

It’s been a few months since she first arrived at UA. 

And it’s been a huge success so far.

Through daily interaction, Y/N started to gain more knowledge on emotions, though she’s still a bit lacking in some areas. 

Their classmates scatter around the lunch tables like any other day, eating food as they joke around.

“Hey where's Y/N?” Kirishima asks out loud to the Bakusquad, noticing her usual spot next to the blonde is empty. When no one answers he looks to his friend, “Bakubro where is she?” 

“Hah, how am I supposed to know? I ain’t her damn guardian” Bakugo scoffs with his signature scowl on his face. 

“Oh c’mon! We all know you have a soft spot for her. Plus she’s practically always glued to your hip!” Kaminari chimes in with a smug grin. 

“Shut your trap dunce face!” 

“Woahhh calm down man, I mean it is true she follows you around the most” Sero says in a muffled voice, continuing to stuff his face with sushi. 

“Tch, cause of her damn programming” Bakugo reminds them as he scans the cafeteria for any sign of her.

“Oh yeah, she follows him around because he causes the most trouble. But I don’t think that’s the only reason. She seems to like you!” 

The blondes eyes finally spot her near the lunchline, food tray in hand, a blank expression on her face. 

Some guys from another class are surrounding her with curious gazes as they exchange words.

The distance is far too great for his ears to overhear what they’re asking her. 

His stare is completely focused on the people standing closest to the girl. 

“She seems more human now, she even started smiling recently!” Kirishimas mumbles with a mouth full of food. 

Bakugo wasn’t paying attention to whatever these idiots were saying. His thoughts shift, thinking about why those extras are acting so friendly with you. 

He can’t blame them honestly. 

A half human-robot would spark his interest as well. 

But it's the way they are eyeing her, causing his fingers to fidget with the chopsticks in his hand, a foreign feeling taking over his whole body. 

“Yeah but mainly with Bakugo!” Kaminari snickers and looks at the blonde, expecting a reaction but is met with nothing. 

Everyone at the table grows silent and their gazes land on the Blonde who's seemingly lost in thought. His brows are furrowed and his jaw is clenched, fingers now gripping the edge of the table to release his tension. 

“Bakubro? You okay man?” 

“Kaminari look what you did!” 

“Ah my bad! Sorry dude-”

As he was observing the extras, the sight of them beginning to touch her, made him move.

In a matter of seconds, Bakugo abruptly jumps up from his seat and starts walking away without another word. The bakusquad goes into full panic mode, assuming the worst.

“Where is he going?!” 

“Wait hold on.. look!” Kirishima points in the direction Bakugo is going. All of them twist their heads to watch as the blonde marches up towards a crowd, “Oh it’s Y/N!” 

Bakugo couldn’t believe the nerve of these assholes. Touching her as if she was an object. 

It only frustrated him more that they’re taking advantage of her clueless nature. She was just standing there, responding to whatever they were saying, as they continued patting her head. 

He makes it to the group in no time, shoving people away with ease, “Move it extras.” 

The guys are quick to back away from him, giving the man a clear path. Shrinking from the presence of the strong third year. Who is notorious for his anger and strength. 

“C’mon idiot, what are you doing?” 

He reaches her side, giving a stern look while crossing his arms.

She looks up at him as he does, her once blank expression shifting ever so slightly to soften. Some rare human emotions on display for him, “I was getting lunch.”

He has to avert his gaze for a moment. Attempting to avoid a facial reaction to develop in response to her innocent image, “yeah I know that stupid. I’m asking why you’re wasting your time talking to these extras.”

“They were curious regarding my robotic arms-” 

“Psh damn first years, of course they are. Everyone always is” he mumbles, pure annoyance seeping through his words. 

He takes her lunch tray in his left hand and starts walking back to their table. Glaring along the way at the guys that are roaming around, who are now rushing back to their individual tables from fear.

She follows in his steps without hesitation or asking any questions. As they make it back and sit, Kaminari whistles teasingly, “went to go rescue your girl huh-” 

“Shut it moron!” Bakugos glare intensifies if that's even possible, making Kaminari shut up immediately. Sero and Kirishima simply snicker at the sudden tension between the two. 

“Am I your girl?” She asks while looking at Bakugo with a plain expression. 

It was silent for a moment when she asked that.

Then laughter filled the void of silence, cackles heard all around the table, never finding a dull moment with Y/Ns denseness. 

Everyone was laughing except him. 

“W-What?! No you idiot! Dunce face was just being sarcastic” Bakugo grumbles as his gaze lands on her face. A hint of shyness creeping up on his voice. 

“Oh” she simply replies and goes back to eating her meal.

“Stupid robot” he mutters, now annoyed towards her minimal reaction. He starts eating his meal with large spoonfuls, tuning out whatever the idiots we’re talking about as they ate.

Reminiscing about all the small moments since she got here.

(∩˃o˂∩) flashbackᶻ 𝗓 𐰁

a/n : the following are all flashbacks at random moments throughout the year in order :) 

“Bakugo Katsuki, Explosion Quirk, Blonde Hair-”

His piercing red eyes drift to the side of his desk, staring the new face down as she practically does a character analysis on him. A scowl immediately took over his once calm expression, “Hah? Back off little robot!”

“I am Model #8307. My name is not little robot” she says with a neutral look, taking in new information regarding his voice and vocabulary choices. 

“Tch, you telling me those scientists or whatever, didn’t even give you a damn name?” 

“I am Model #8307”

“You have some shitty creators then, what type of assholes call you by your creation number” he scoffs clearly not fond of that decision. 

“Aw bakubro! Are you perhaps feeling bad in her defense?” Kirishima chimes in with a toothy grin.

“Psh as if! I'm just pointing out the obvious. What the hell am I supposed to call her? Her damn serial number?” he says, rolling his eyes with disdain. 

“Hm, maybe we can give her a name! Oh I bet I have some ideas in my notes-” Deku mumbles under his breath, already flipping pages for ideas. 

Bakugo groans and looks at him with a glare, “you’re mumbling again nerd!” 

Despite his complaints, the entire class started shouting out potential names for the new classmate. As they all gather around to chat away, the robot seems to stick close to Bakugo, and he seems to notice.

“Got something to say?” he crosses his arms, giving her a calculating once over. 

“My programming states I must keep an eye on you the most” she says now stepping closer to him. 

“I don’t need a damn babysitter” his jaw begins to clench at her words. Annoyance taking over as she scoots closer. 

Some laughter is heard across the classroom and Deku smiles, “Kacchan looks like you’ll be spending the most time with her, so how about you name her!” 

“This is fucking dumb.”

“Aw c'mon bakubro! She needs a name, and you seem to be her favorite!” Kirishima grins in his direction. 

He stays silent as he processes both the idiots' words seemingly in thought. His red eyes study the robot and all of a sudden he sighs, “Y/N”

“What a manly name! Where did you think of that Bakugo?” Kirishima tilts his head with curiosity. 

“Oh I remember! That name was from a children's picture book when we were younger, right Kacchan? The main character was a robot in that as well, it makes sense-” 

“Mumbling” Bakugo reminds him with a frown and a warning look. 

“Oops sorry kacchan!” Deku quickly covers his mouth and awkwardly smiles. 

“Alrighty then! You hear that? Your name is Y/N from now on” Kirishima says to her while patting the robot's head.

“Are you my new master then?” Y/N asks Bakugo out of nowhere, given he’s the one who named her.

“Kinky-” Kaminari snorts out loud and begins running away as Bakugo lunges at him. 

“Dunce face shut the hell up! And fuck no, you damn robot!”

–⋆ ˚｡⋆୨ ʚɞ ୧⋆ ˚｡⋆–

His red eyes roam through the scantron for any mistakes he could’ve made on the exam. 

Once fully satisfied with his answers, he places his pencil down. Moving the booklet towards the corner of his desk. 

He is about to rest his head down til he hears a voice beside him, “you got one wrong.”

Bakugo almost jumps at the low whisper, his head snapping at his side to find Y/N analyzing his scantron. 

Since she was in charge of protecting the class, she didn’t have to partake in exams or classwork. Her knowledge as an android practically made her a perfect scholar. 

“The hell are you doing?!” he whispers back and looks at the front of the classroom. Taking a sigh of relief to see Erasure Head distracted in his sleeping bag. 

“I am here to help you” she states while pointing at question 13 and repeating her words, insisting to recheck his answer.

“You can’t just waltz around to help! This is a test!” 

“But my mission is to help the students of Class 3A-”

“Ugh, it's like I'm talking to damn icy-hot, now scram before Mr.Aizawa thinks I'm cheating!” He waves her off with a scowl.

Bakugo could only facepalm when Kaminari secretly calls Y/N over. Taking the opportunity to cheat as she gives him the answers so casually. 

“What an idiot” he grimaces, looking away to stare at his own exam.

His eyes stay lingering onto the booklet, flipping through the pages to look at question 13. After a moment, he mumbles curses under his breath and looks back to see if Y/N is around. 

Who's practically giving Kaminari all the answers per request.

The grumpy blonde quickly looks back at his own paper, grabbing the erasure, and changing his answer. Once completed he rests his head on the desk and huffs, “dumb robot as if I needed help….”

–⋆ ˚｡⋆୨ ʚɞ ୧⋆ ˚｡⋆–

Bakugo freezes in complete disbelief. Did she just-

“Oi! What the hell are you doing?!” he yells out, trying to pry her hands away but no use. As if he could best her metal arms in strength at the moment. 

“Todoroki says this is effective to make people more comfortable around you” she states, keeping her arms wrapped around his waist from behind. Clearly an attempt to give him a back hug. 

“He’s the last person you should be getting help from! Now get off me!” 

Everyone that's around the common room collectively laughs at the odd sight. No one could remember a time when anyone had dared to hug Bakugo like that. 

“Keep him still Y/N!” “Everyone attack!” “Y/N is so manly!” “Get him!” 

“Don't even think about it you idiots!” Bakugo screams out with annoyance and hidden embarrassment. Soon enough, everyone starts joining in on the group hug. He groans and puts his frustration somewhere else, tugging on poor Dekus hair, “all of you are dead when I get free!” 

“Agh- kacchan!!”

–⋆ ˚｡⋆୨ ʚɞ ୧⋆ ˚｡⋆–

No umbrella.

His eyebrow twitches with frustration at the sight of rain. Oh how much he hates rain. 

“We can share my umbrella” Y/N says, approaching out of nowhere.

His eyes meet hers with a grumpy look, “You always show up at the weirdest moments you know that?” 

“I am here to-”

“Here to help. Yeah yeah I know, just hurry it up would ya?”

She takes a step outside and opens her umbrella, holding it up so she can reach his height. He sighs and takes it from her, holding it as they walk together.

It's a calm silence as they head to the dorms.

Y/N's gaze roams around campus, noticing many pairs clinging to one another under their umbrellas. 

So with the new information, she wraps her arm around his bicep.

He tenses at the sudden contact and looks at her direction, “tch what now?” 

Usually he would shove her away but with the rain, he held back. Plus he finds himself growing accustomed to her shenanigans. 

“I am holding your bicep.” 

“You- I know that! But why?” 

“Everyone seems to be doing so.”

His eyebrows furrow and he looks around, spotting nothing but cheesy couples being clingy under their umbrellas.

“Because they are couples you dork, and we aren’t so let go.” 

“Does this mean we are a couple?” she says, squeezing his bicep for clarity. 

His heart beat increases and he coughs, now looking away with pink ears, “What?! No! It doesn't work like that!”

“Then how do you become one?”

“Agh- ask someone else, stupid!” 

Bakugo shoves the umbrella back in her hand and makes a run for it instead. Rushing back to the dorms in the rain, pink ears and all. What is this feeling?  

(∩˃o˂∩) back to presentᶻ 𝗓 𐰁

He is soon brought back to reality when he hears an unfamiliar voice. His head looked to the side to see some guy talking to Y/N, who seemed to approach as he was distracted, “so what do you say we go on a date hm?”

Bakugos eyes slightly widened at the bold words, his mouth opened to cuss the guy out but she was faster to respond. 

“I decline your offer.”

The extra frowns and tilts his head, “you got a boyfriend or something?”

“Yes I do,” she replies with a polite nod. 

Everyone at the table looks shocked by her response, not expecting such a reply from her. The extra leaves a few moments later, seeming to understand at least. 

“Wow Y/N.. didn’t know you had the guts to lie to someone” Kirishima gives her a proud thumbs up.

“Lie? But I didn’t lie” she says, continuing to calmly eat her lunch.

The guys gasp at her words, not able to believe it. Bakugo freezes in his spot looking at her in disbelief. His heart thumps in his chest as shock fills his body.

“You actually have a boyfriend?! Who?!” Kaminari yells out, curiosity taking over.

“Bakugo of course” she mutters, sipping away at her juice box.

The guys all stare in shock and their eyes dart back and forth between the two. Bakugo almost chokes on air at her response. The fuck? 

Laughter is heard around the table, all used to Y/N's dense nature, it seems she still has some learning to do. 

“Did I say something funny?” she looks around as they all wheeze at her words. She looks back at Bakugo and tilts her head. 

He can still hear his heart thumping wildly in his chest. He sighs loudly and shakes his head, “Ignore the idiots and continue eating.”

Y/N nods at his words and goes back to continuing her meal, as does he.

The trio immediately stopped laughing and looked stunned for a moment. Bakugo didn’t react to her words nor corrected her this time. 

Could he…

Almost as if he could read their minds, the blonde sends a glare their way, making them all go back to eating. 

This time, correcting her didn’t even cross his mind. He can see out of the corner of his eyes, the way she scoots closer to him.

But he doesn't say anything this time. 

He knows she's staring at the couple at the other table, observing their actions and taking in the information. She is always so observant.

Out of curiosity, his eyes wander across to the couple, noticing the guy sharing his food with the girl.

Bakugo can already feel Y/N's eyes on him. It almost makes him want to laugh. 

Silently, he takes a sushi roll off his plate and places it on her tray. Copying the other guy's actions. It’s stupid as hell, but she seems to like it. 

With that action alone, he can see a small rare smile forming on her face as she eats.

Teach her emotions huh. Fine. He can do that. 

As the lunch period went on, he didn’t eat much.

The reason? Sharing his food with her.

But he oddly didn’t feel hungry this time, feeling full off that rare smile she had on her face.

✦ ⎯⎯ㅤִㅤ୭ ୨♡୧ ৎㅤִ     ⎯⎯ ✦

A/N ||| Attention all Bakugo stans : Our favorite boy has won first place in 'Worlds Best Hero' global popularity poll (yippieee) but our journey isn't done yet! Vote for Bakugo in the plus ultra stage using this - link ૮꒰ྀི > . < ꒱ྀིა The winner of this poll will get a new illustration and using that, it will be made into a bronze statue to be displayed at the MHA exhibition in 2025! It's only a 24 hour poll so vote now using the link above! You do not need a account for this so get to voting, plus ultra!

[midnighthazee]

Greenridge ABO Series

a/n: I hope my lovely Greenies had a good Thanksgiving! I didn't write as much as I wanted to over the break but I still managed to get this chapter written! Enjoy!

Series Masterlist Masterlist

Warnings: a little bit of explicit language, pabo behavior

WC: 3931

Chapter 13

It had been a week. Seven days since Reed said he would take you back to Greenridge. Everytime you brought it up, he gave an excuse. He had work, his drivers were resting, he was waiting on visitors, blah blah. Last night, he left for a business meeting at HA headquarters without a word. 

Now you were bored out of your mind, wandering his mansion in the late afternoon. You figured you would be nosy since he left you here. You looked in all the bedrooms, realizing he gave you the nicest one out of all the guest rooms. That’s something…you suppose. You turn the corner out of the living room, nearly bumping into one of his men.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” he said.

“Sorry,” you mumbled.

He looked strangely familiar.

“Do I know you?” you asked.

“Uh…no.” he said, hurrying off.

Weird.

You proceeded down the hall, opening doors and finding a closet, or a room with priceless artifacts. Some sculptures, vases, and paintings cluttered the room. You moved on, finding a door with a staircase leading down.

Nothing good ever comes from a basement. You thought.

You found yourself walking down the stairs regardless, a few lanterns on the wall illuminating the dark space. You get to the bottom, no rank smells in the air like the basement you lived in. As you continue on, it’s dark. You feel along the wall and find a lightswitch. 

Light flicks on, illuminating the space. You see a kitchenette, a stack of dog bowls, and another door beyond. You open the door slowly, afraid of what’s on the other side. You hear noises as you step in, but from what?

It smells like…like outside or something. Dirt maybe? You proceed farther in the room, noticing glass doors on one side.They looked like cells, just extremely nicer than Lewis’s setup. As you approached, you noticed a shadowed figure inside. You step closer, squinting your eyes.

The figure moves suddenly, banging two paws on the glass and growling. You fall back, screaming and shielding yourself before you realize whatever it was didn’t break free. As you turn back, you realize it was a wolf - a huge wolf. There were several down this hall, a dozen beady eyes looking at you through the glass. You scramble to your feet and hurry out of the room. You get back to the kitchen, only to run into the guy you saw a few minutes ago.

“Hey, you okay?” he asked.

“Yeah. I’m fine,” You pant. “W-why are there wolves?”

“They are Reed’s night patrol.”

“Night patrol?”

“He lets them out at night and they keep watch of his territory, ensuring no trespassers.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah. He finds them more loyal apparently, but I think it’s stupid.” he chuckles.

“You sure we haven’t met before?” you ask once more. There was something about his smile that struck you.

He sighed. “We have.”

“Was it at Lewis’s house?”

“No. Um….it’s me…Hudson.”

You stared in shock. 

“Surprise?” he offered with a shrug and smile.

“But…how? How are you here?”

“He found me after mom and dad died and took me in.”

“Why didn’t you say anything earlier?”

“I was supposed to leave you alone.”

“Why?”

“He just told me not to interact with you. He wouldn’t give details.”

“But…I’m here all alone…without my pack. Why wouldn’t he want me to know I have more family here?”

“I gotta go. And you should go upstairs to have dinner. I’ve seen you skipping meals.”

You look down. “I’m not hungry.”

“Lies. Go eat, y/n.”

Before you can protest or ask another question, he’s off, back upstairs and out of sight. You sigh, heading upstairs too. You didn’t eat, but you did stay in your room and watch tv to pass the time. Oh how you ached for your pack.

“Ugh, something scared her.” Minho grumbles. “I swear if that prick is torturing her…”

“Wouldn’t you feel the pain too?” Changbin asked.

“I guess. Ugh….I don’t know if it’s good or bad to have this connection to her when she’s not within reach.” Minho groans, running a finger through his hair.

“I would say good. You can keep an eye on her.” Hyunjin spoke, not looking up from his sketching.

“I guess. Ji, you find the address yet?” Minho asks, coming over to Han on his laptop.

“I’m almost in. Just another second….done. Let me just locate the files.” Jisung typed frantically on the keyboard.

Within a few minutes, he’d hacked into the HA database and was looking into the Blackmane pack for an address.

“Here we are. Blackmane Pack. Run by an alpha named Reed Kang.” Jisung stated. “Located on 53790 Woodmill Rd.”

“How far are we from that?” Jeongin asks.

“Uh, it looks like…an hour.”

“Great. Let’s move.” Minho says, rising from the motel bed.

The Greenridge pack, accompanied by the I-Land pack, drove to the Blackmane Manor. The sun was setting and soon everything was covered by darkness. The roads were scarcely lit, and the houses were very spaced apart. But in less than an hour, they arrived and buzzed the intercom at the front gate.

“What’s your purpose for this visit?” a man’s voice said on the intercom.

“I’m here to see Mr. Kang. It’s an urgent matter.” Minho spoke, eyeing the gate and what he could see of the front lawn.

“Mr. Kang is not present. Please come back tomorrow.”

“Is there no alpha or beta I could speak with in his place?” 

“No. Come back tomorrow.”

Minho groans. He looks at the house, knowing you are here. They back up, driving down the road before parking. He groups up with I-land, suggesting they hop the fence and save you.

“We don’t know how many are guarding the place. If he really isn’t here, he could have left her heavily guarded.” Jungwon’s beta, Jake, said.

“I’m counting on the fact that he would think we know nothing of this place. Or would have taken longer to find it. Let’s go.” Minho explained.

“Min, can’t we think this over?” Changbin suggests.

“She’s in there. It’s like I can feel how close she is.” Minho stares at Changbin.

Changbin backs down, following his alpha. 

They head down the street, finding a good spot to breach. Quickly, they scaled the brick wall and began running through the yard. They made it halfway to the house when a howl rang out into the night.

“Guys…that sounded close.” Felix noted, looking around.

“Oh, shit. Over there. Run!” Sunoo yelled.

They all looked in the direction he pointed, seeing three large figures headed their way. They took off, running quickly back to the wall.

“Spread out, they can’t chase us all.” Heeseung yelled.

In efforts of getting to the wall, they all spaced out, making the wolves distance themselves and lock in on a target. Niki and Heeseung reached first, leaping and climbing over. Hyunjin and Sunoo were next, followed by Jake, Jeongin and Felix. Changbin helped the rest scale the wall, as the wolves closed in.

“Hurry!” Felix and Sunoo yelled from the other side. 

Changbin grabbed onto a vine, pulling himself up. One of the wolves lunged out, grabbing him by the pants leg - their teeth slightly nipping the skin. Changbin tried to pull up, the wolf trying to pull him down. His other leg kicked frantically, fighting off the two other wolves. He managed to kick one in the face before landing a blow to the wolf who had him by the pants.

He heaved himself up and over the wall, falling to the ground in a huff. He sat there a second, catching his breath. Felix was quick to look him over as the others bent down.

“You okay?”

“You good?”

“The teeth marks are shallow. Should heal quickly.” Felix informed.

“I’m alright.” Changbin reached his hands out.

Minho and Jungwon pulled him up to his feet and they all headed back to their cars. Changbin had a slight limp but managed to get there on his own. Minho was cursing himself for not being able to get to you.

“What if we deflect? Cause commotion that draws the wolves attention away, while the rest of us sneak up to the house…” Seungmin suggests.

“We don’t know how many wolves there are. If we don’t get them all in one location, we won’t make it in.” Sunghoon said, leaning against the car.

“How do we figure out how many there are?” Jay asked.

“We could always go back in, run around the yard and hope we can outrun them.” Jisung suggested, earning a glare from several of them. “Or not…”

Meanwhile, you were currently hiding in an alley, checking around the corner before proceeding down the sidewalk. You had managed to sneak out the house before nightfall, claiming you wanted some fresh air. Once you learned about the wolves, you decided you had to make your attempt before nightfall, instead of after. And with Reed not home, you figured today was the day. So you asked to get some fresh air, laying in the grass for a bit, and idling walking around before they finally were distracted enough for you to slip away. The guards were on their phones, not realizing what you were up to. Before they knew it, you were off the property and heading into the local town.

So far, the streets were quite desolate, a few cars driving by here and there. Each one made you tense as you worried it was Reed or his men, hiding into an alley or shadow every time. You also jumped at the howl of wolves heard in the distance. They must be the ones Reed kept at his disposal.

As you walked, you kept your hands tucked under your arms. It was chilly and you regretted not wearing a jacket before running off. It probably would have made it obvious since it was warm before the sun set but you could have made an excuse. 

Turning down a street, you hoped to come across someone, anyone, who could take you home. Or maybe you could at least find a place to stay for the night so you wouldn’t be out in the cool autumn air. You followed the sounds of people and came across a pub. There were loads of people inside, loud and boisterous as they laughed and drank. At least they would probably be too drunk to notice you (or remember seeing you). You head inside, thankful for the warmth and keep your head low. You notice a fireplace off in the back and make your way over there. It was warm and cozy so you settled in at the table next to it.

“Hi, what can I getcha?” a young woman asked, startling you.

“Just water…wait, is water free?” you ask.

The girl chuckled. “Yeah, it’s free.” 

She walked off towards the bar and you focused back on the fire. Within a few minutes, she returned with two drinks.

“This one is on the house. It’s alcohol free.” She smiled, hurrying off to the next table.

You smiled, looking at the beverage. It looked like lemonade, so you took a sip. It wasn’t lemonade, but it was good. You sipped it while warming up by the fire. You looked around at all the people, trying to find someone who could possibly help you. Most of the people in here were big, burly men that were intimidating. They smelled like alphas, at least from what you could differentiate, and that worried you. Were they like Lewis? Or would they be nice and helpful like Chan? 

You finished your drink, now drinking the water as you scoot closer down the bench to the fire.

“Would you like a refill?” the girl asked.

“No. Water is fine.” you force a smile.

“What’s an omega like you doing here all alone?” she asked, whispering as she leaned over the table. 

Your eyes widened.

“I can smell you. And I’m sure I’m not the only one.” she looked over her shoulder briefly. “Be careful, they get handsy when they are drunk. It’s not safe for a little omega like you around here.”

You caught her scent - beta.

“Is there somewhere I should go?” you asked.

“There you are!” A guy’s voice interrupted.

“Hudson?” your brows furrowed. “How did you find me?” 

The girl walked away, but, unbeknownst to you, she kept an eye on you. She could smell a damsel in distress a mile away.

“I figured since you escaped, you came here. A town with people who could possibly bring you home.” He shrugged, sitting next to you. “Was I right?”

You shifted in your seat.

“You need to come back,” he whispered.

“No.”

“Y/n…if Reed finds out you got away, he will come for you.”

“He can try. I need to get back to my pack.” 

“Y/n…”

“He doesn’t own me. I spent thirteen years of my life being trapped. I’m not going back to that.”

“He said he would take you back. Just give him time.”

“Give him time for more excuses? No. He’s your alpha, not mine.” You move to get up, but he grabs your wrist. 

“Please. I just got you back…” he pleaded. 

His voice was sincere, the pain evident in his tone. You had missed him dearly and were happy to have him back in your life. But it wasn’t enough to stay. You couldn’t live with Reed’s pack. You wanted to live at Greenridge - it’s where you belong.

“Come with me.” you say.

“I can’t.”

“Sure you can. I’m sure Chan would let you.”

“I already pledged myself to Reed. I…I can’t…” he looks down sadly.

“I’ll miss you once more.” you say, pulling your wrist from his grip and walking towards the exit.

You nearly get to the door when someone’s arms pull you back, spinning you around.

“Hudson, let-” You started to protest.

“Go out the back. Reed’s men are searching the streets.” Hudson says, nodding his head to the back door.

“Thank you.” you say, embracing him in a hug.

He hugs you back tightly. You pull apart, heading to the back while he leaves through the front.

Out back, you hurry down the alley, peaking around the corner to see Hudson pointing them in the direction opposite of you. They hurry off and you slip down the street in the cover of darkness. It felt even colder now but you pushed on, up the curved hillside.

The street eventually leveled out, only illuminated by the street lamps as you walked. You hugged yourself, pushing through the cold air that bit at your skin. You didn’t know how long you had been walking but your feet were beginning to hurt.

You hadn’t trained with Changbin for long and you were regretting complaining every time. You would sweet talk your way out of it half the days he trained everyone. If you had let him train you, maybe you wouldn’t be struggling so much.

You heard the wolves howling once more, breaking up the silence of the deserted road. Up ahead was an intersection. You noticed a few cars driving through, their headlights briefly illuminating the street ahead. You kept walking, hoping to put as much distance between you and Reed’s men as you could. 

You got to the corner, stopping by the edge of the building. Each direction had an incoming car so you waited for them to pass before crossing the street. You looked ahead, squinting from the bright headlights shining in your direction. The car crossed through the intersection and you stepped to the curb, seeing the car going the opposite direction also pass.

Suddenly, the color red illuminates the road, tires squealing. You freeze, noticing the second car stopped in the middle of the road. It looked like the suv Reed’s men drove as it began to back up. You panic. 

Shit… they found me, you thought.

Looking to the right, you see the sidewalk is clear, an alley not too far up. You take off running, hoping to turn the corner before they see you. You hear tires squealing again, a roar of the engine following. They were speeding up to catch up to you. You pushed your legs faster, fear fueling you. You approach the alley, cutting the corner and running down the dark path. You see a dumpster and quickly duck behind it.

The headlights illuminate the alley and you curse yourself for not being faster. They must have seen you turn down the alley. You wait for them to pass ready to bolt as soon as they do. The car cautiously drives down the alley, slowly passing the dumpster. Taking a few breaths to brace yourself, you pop out from behind and hurry back up the alley towards the street. You’re nearly at the street when a voice calls out.

“Y/N!” 

You freeze.

Slowly, you turn around, seeing two figures walking towards you. It couldn’t be…

“Y/n?” one questioned as you squinted.

“Changbin? Jisung?” you whispered.

As they approached, the street lamps illuminated their faces. You rushed over to them, swinging an arm around each of their necks and pulling them into a hug. They hugged you back tightly and you felt the tears filling your eyes.

“Oh my god you don’t know how relieved we are to see you.” Jisung said, pulling you into his own hug.

“We’ve been looking all over for you. We were about to sneak onto the Blackmane property to rescue you.” Changbin said.

Felix came rushing over, followed by the others. He took you by surprise, lifting you off the ground. You giggle and he puts you down with a pout. “You’ve lost weight.”

You blush, looking to the ground as he looks you over for any physical evidence of abuse on your body. 

“I’m fine, Lixie.” you say.

Hyunjin stands next to Felix, smiling at you. You smile back and he scoops you up, spinning you around. As soon as he puts you down, Seungmin is pulling him off you so he can squeeze you into a hug as well. You look over and see Jeongin smiling at you. You open your arms towards him and he comes over, arms going under yours and lifting you off the ground. You wrap your arms around his neck, relaxing into him. Never did you think you would be so comfortable with an alpha.

Their scents each engulfed you, relaxing you immediately. You were elated, comforted by their presence and grateful to finally be reunited. It had been a long, lonely week without them and you were happy you wouldn’t have to keep running.

Changbin and Jisung are boasting about how they finally have you back, Felix mumbling about how you look like you’ve lost weight. But you weren’t paying them attention, instead walking away from them to approach Minho who was leaning against the trunk observing the whole reunion.

You walked over to him, wrapping your arms around his waist and hugging him tight. Everyone stopped talking of course, watching for his reaction. He had been so cold before you left, beating himself up about hurting you. But right now, you didn’t care. He could give you the cold shoulder tomorrow, but right now you wanted the comfort of your alpha. 

As you press your cheek to his chest, holding onto him as if this was all a dream and he would disappear, he couldn’t help but smile. He wrapped his arms around you, kissing the top of your head as he inhaled your scent. His eyes closed as he breathed you in. God he had missed you.

You could feel the bond strengthening, your mark tingling as you both held onto each other. 

“Wait, where’s Chan?” you asked.

“Um…he’s fine. He’s safe. He’s just um…” Minho tried to find the words.

“Is he still at the Hybrid Association? But Hyunjin and Jisung are here?”

“How did you know we were there?” Hyunjin questions.

“Reed told me. Then he took me there but he hurried me out as soon as I gave my statement of what happened with Lewis.”

“You were there?! At headquarters?!” Jisung exclaims.

“Yes.”

“That son of a bitch.” Changbin growled.

“What happened to Chan?”

“It’s complicated…” Minho starts. “He’s being detained.” “For what?!” “Murder.” 

“What? He didn’t kill Lewis. Reed did.”

“He killed Hayes and Milo…”

“Th-they’re dead?”

“Reed didn’t tell you?” Felix asked.

“Not that part…” you shook your head.

“They wouldn’t let us see him.”

“Why not?”

“It’s the law to not murder a fellow hybrid.” Minho explained. “Plus his past…it complicates things.”

“His past?”

“I’ll explain it later.”

“But-”

 Headlights turning into the alley interrupted the conversation. You tensed, noticing the other car.

“It’s alright.” Minho spoke. “It’s one of our allied packs.”

You looked up at him and he smiled at you. His expression was soft as he looked at you, making you blush.

“How’d you find her?” one of the men from the new car asked as he got out.

“She was wandering the streets. We got lucky.” Jisung said.

“Y/n, this is Alpha Jungwon. He’s been helping us.”

“Nice to meet you.” you say, one arm still wrapped around Minho’s waist.

“You too. Glad to see you're safe and unharmed. We were all worried.” Jungwon said with a smile.

“We should probably get out of here.” Changbin noted. “They are probably looking for you.”

You nod.

The eight of you piled into one car, the other pack in the other car. Minho led them back onto the main road, and they got on the freeway, attempting to get far from town before they stopped for the night.

You were sandwiched between Jisung and Seungmin, having fallen asleep on Jisung’s lap during the drive. You hadn’t slept well since being away from home and it was already late at night. Jisung rubbed your head soothingly as you laid in his lap. Felix eyed you from Seungmin’s other side, making sure you were truly okay. Hyunjin and Jeongin were in the way back of the suv nearly falling asleep as well.

Nearly two hours later, Minho decided to stop for the night. They needed to rest up and get some food, so he found a motel to stop at. As everyone shifted to get out of the car, you groaned at being woken up.

“Sorry, y/n. But we are going inside, c’mon.” Jisung said.

You sat up, looking around. You get out, following them up to the rooms. Minho and Jisung decided to share the room with the king bed. The rest of the boys are with you in the other room with two double beds. Jungwon got his pack a couple rooms too and they split up, saying goodnight.

You got into the room, it smelling stuffy and old.

“We will be back home soon. It’s just for the night.” Seungmin placed a hand on your shoulder, offering a smile.

You went to the bathroom, wanting to shower but too tired to do so. Plus you didn’t have a change of clothes. So you just wash your hands and go back into the room.

Changbin pulls you to the bed near the window, insisting you share with him. Jeongin joins in, leaving Felix, Hyunjin, and Seungmin to the other bed closer to the door. Laying between the two of them made you feel so safe and warm, lulling you to sleep rather quickly. The two of them stared at you in awe before they too fell asleep.

TAGLIST:

@estella-novella @lxvxchxrlxttxbxrsx22-blog @butterflydemons @readr1221 @gaby105-skz @notevenheretbh1 @bah2004 @sinfulfic @bowsnbang @just-a-blackthorn-cookie @dreamerwasfound @motheraiya55 @m00njinnie @writeuntilthebitterend @jutdwae-flower @staytinyluv @emmxxsworld @galaxy4489 @wolfo2027 @iknow-uknow-leeknow @thatgirlangelb @fr34k4c1dr41n @stwq2349 @rylea08 @sang-09 @scarlet789 @hxnnielk

Shout out to my lovely beta @cherry-erii

[666writingcafe]

Pride (Part One)

Everything should have gone according to plan. The House of Lords were going to use one of the businesses they sponsor--an ice cream shop--to hold a contest. Two of the lords in the Upper House rigged it so that MC would win the grand prize: a train trip for two to the Underworld. I would be their plus one so that I can ensure MC doesn't become trapped in the train or the Underworld, effectively foiling the Lords' devious plan and allowing MC to return to their rightful home.

The first time of trouble was that MC was accompanied to the ice cream shop by six of the brothers. Apparently, the contest had started a day earlier than I was led to believe. But it wasn't that big of a deal. All MC had to do was to tell them that they already had a plus one in mind, leading them to believe that it was Solomon. I mean, after the whole flood situation, the two of them certainly have a lot to discuss about the status of their relationship, which requires an extended period of uninterrupted private time.

But then fucking Lucifer had to butt his stupid butt in and insist that the second ticket would be his. I get that the demon puberty thing would strike him eventually, but did it have to be now?! I have just enough political power to protect MC from harm, but both them and Lucifer?! Forget it. He might as well have signed their death sentence.

After relaying the rather vicious argument the two of them had over the train tickets, MC asked me over the phone if I wouldn't mind buying my own.

"Are you sure you want him to join us?" I reply, causing them to sigh.

"I don't think I have much of a choice. Lucifer and I...we share a connection that I don't have with the others. Out of all the brothers' transformations, I figured his would affect me the most due to that connection."

"You know you acquiescing to him is going to feed his ego, right?" Another sigh.

"I know. But if I continue fighting him on this, then we're going to end up destroying something. As it is, the House was starting to shake at the height of our argument, and there's cracks on the walls that weren't there previously." A brief pause. "At least if you're there on the train with us, you can control the severity of our bickering."

"I suppose that's true. I do expect to be compensated accordingly for my services. Just listening to you recount your argument is making my head throb. I'd hate to imagine what it would feel like when I'm smack dab in the middle of it."

"A shopping spree for your brother?" Another pause. "Diavolo told me what happened to him at his school, and I wanted to help lift his spirits. Of course, I can get you something too--"

"Don't worry about it. I accept your offer."

~~~

Famous last words.

It started before we even boarded the train. Lucifer took one look at MC's suitcase and told them that they "needn't worry about bringing it" because he'd "already packed everything for them".

"I even included two outfits that are appropriate attire for tonight's dinner," he continues, ignoring MC's seething. "I prefer the blue one, but I think the color of the other outfit is closer to what you usually like to wear."

"I think I'm more than capable of dressing myself, Lucifer."

"For casual events, perhaps. But this is a train that Devildom nobles often use to go on holidays, since it's known for providing a luxury experience to its customers. Trust me; the clothes I've prepared for you are perfect for this occasion."

"Speaking as a Devildom noble, I think your attendant has dressed appropriately for similar occasions," I chime in. "They've certainly never looked under-dressed, so if they feel like their clothes would work, then I trust their judgement." I don't know whose facial expression is scarier: MC's smug one or Lucifer's irritated one. Or is it the fact that, despite the different expressions, they look eerily similar? Of course, that could be that mental connection that MC mentioned at work somehow.

Things are relatively calm as we board the train, and there are no further mishaps until dinner. I place my order with little issue, but the moment MC goes to open their mouth, Lucifer states,

"We'll both have this dinner here, with the bicorn tenderloin roti as our main course. We'll take our appetizer garnished with blood sauce. Also, a bottle of Talouse vintage 666 Demonus, and two glasses if you would." I don't have to look at MC to know they're wanting to reach across the table and strangle Lucifer. Thankfully, our waiter catches the change in MC's mood and preemptively allows them more time to look over the menu while he leaves to submit mine and Lucifer's orders.

"What the hell do you think you're doing?!" I hiss at Lucifer.

"Making sure mistakes aren't made," he replies nonchalantly. "What I've chosen will appeal to MC."

"And what makes you so sure about that?"

"I know them, inside and out. So, there's no need to worry. I have everything under control." I take a deep breath, trying my best to keep my voice level. I will not be making a scene in this dining car.

"Listen, Lucifer, perhaps this part of etiquette has slipped through the cracks of what you've been taught, but unless someone makes it explicitly clear that they're okay with it, you never order food for another adult person. It takes away their dignity and tells them that you don't value their opinion."

"Is that how you really feel about me, Lucifer?" MC chimes in. "Do you not think that I'm capable of making my own decisions?" If looks could kill, both Lucifer and MC would be dead right about now, because they're staring daggers into each other's eyes. Unfortunately for us, that's when the waiter returns to check in on MC.

"Are we still deciding what to get?" he asks. MC forces a smile on their face as they reply,

"I do, actually." As they place their order, Lucifer mutters under his breath that they won't like their food for various reasons, whether it's that it'd be too spicy or too tough to chew. The waiter notices this and waves his hand in Lucifer's direction. The next time he opens his mouth to speak, no sound comes out.

"A little spell I've learned," the waiter explains. "You have no idea the amount of people that behave like that. I'll lift it once your friend here has finished ordering." The smug look on MC's face returns as they place the rest of their order, and I quietly tell the waiter to bring me a bottle of Demonus.

This is going to be a long train ride.

Taglist: @lost-in-time-wanderer, @fuzztacular, @dianedancer18, @sweetbrier2908, @flare-love, @completelyshatteredbrokenmschf, @thunderlightning351, @l3v1chan, @anxious-chick, @5mary5, @expressionless-fr, @tenkobitch, @budbuddnbuddy

[eggrollforyou]

How Can I Say I Love You

Law x F!Reader

WC: 1467

CW: angst to fluff, parental/parental figure loss, tooth aching fluff, minor Law backstory spoilers (if you're not caught up through Dressrosa), seems like an OC but I'm too lazy for that, so leader insert 🤣, mutual pining, post time skip 

A/N: this was supposed to be a quick, cute thing, but that clearly got away from me. So I’ll be turning it into parts. Still cute, but apparently my brain had something else in mind. Readers and Law’s thoughts are in italics. Enjoy!

Three little words. Just three little words that seemed to hold so much weight, they'd change the trajectory of everything. Three little terrifying words that could mean the end, if unrequited. 

Far be it from Law to understand how the combinations of chemicals and electrical signals in the brain could have such a profound effect. He's known its highs but has experienced far more of its devastation. Was he cursed? Never able to express what he wanted to with you.

He first met you when you were both children. He, on the search for a cure for his disease with Corazon. You, another sick child, at one of the hospitals he was dragged to. “Hi, I'm (Y/N),” your small voice broke through the background buzz of the hospital chatter. Law turned around to see you sitting on the other side of the room, electric teal blue hair with a white streak framing your face. “Hmmph, yea, so what?” he grumbles indignantly. He hated hospitals. He was grateful for Cora-san to try to help him, but it was going nowhere. He pulled his knees into his chest and sulked while Corazon argued with the physician. “Are you sick?” you ask him, unphased by his grumpiness. Maybe that's why he's acting upset, maybe he just doesn't feel good. He must be sick like me, you think to yourself. “I'm sick too,” you get up to come closer to talk to the grumpiest little boy you've ever encountered and suddenly you fall to your knees in a coughing fit, unable to breathe. 

Law peeks his eyes over his knees, dark under the brim of his spotted hat, but showing concern that he quickly changes to a scowl, “You really shouldn't cough close to other people like that, you could get someone else sick,” he sneers. You finally regain your breath and sniffle. You were so tired of being here, no one to play with or talk to. Your mom had to work all the time to make ends meet and couldn't afford to take time off to be with you while you were admitted for treatment. 

So you spend your days alone with only nurses coming to check on you every couple hours. Your eyes were watering from the pain in your chest, but you continued, “I'm sorry. It's just SO boring here.” Law suddenly notices that you're alone. There's nothing to indicate an adult with you. It's just you and a stuffed bear that was nearly falling apart from living a loved life. “I-I'm Law,” he mumbles. “Nice to meet you, Law!” your face lights up. “Wanna play tic-tac-toe?” you ask, picking up a piece of paper and a pencil. He begrudgingly agrees and scoots over to you. You play several games until suddenly, you hear screaming from hospital staff and a tall blonde man with a heart shirt and big black coat runs, scooping Law up and running away. Hospital staff screaming about Amber Lead disease and quarantines as they chase them. Suddenly, you were alone again. 

It seemed like fate that you both found each other again as teens. You were walking to the beach with your fishing rod. It was just you now. You woke that morning, hunger eating away at you. It had been a couple days since you ate. Managing to steal a fishing rod from a boat at the docks the day before, you got up to fish. You need to try your luck again. Whistling as you walked along the shore trying to reach a rocky outcrop that would let you cast further out, hoping to catch something, you grabbed your belly as it screamed its displeasure at you. 

Law, Bepo, Shachi, and Penguin were walking along the shore, trying to figure out where their next stop would be. Rounding a dune, he sees a girl walking with a fishing pole. Electric blue teal hair, pulled back in a braid with a white streak weaved in and out of the braid. Wait….who is that? I know that hair….could it be? he thinks to himself.

“Y/N?!” you hear someone call your name and you whip around looking for the source until you see that white spotted hat that you'll never forget. The same hat from that grumpy little boy in the hospital. “Law?!” You shout in surprise. He's not alone. In tow, he has a Mink companion, and two other boys- one with a penguin hat and the other with an orca hat. Law introduces you to his little band of misfits and you spend the rest of the day catching up. 

The others are asleep, but you and Law are still talking. You shed a tear that night when Law tells you Cora is gone. You never knew him, nor did you see their relationship, but you could see the hurt in his eyes. Even in the dim light put out by the campfire you're sitting by. Losing your mother, you knew the heavy feeling in your chest when you thought about her. “You should stay with us, we could always use the extra help,” he says with hope. “Yeah, that'd be great,” you smile back. Finally feeling some peace that your nights won't be so lonely. You travel with them for a couple years. Spending your days together on the loose, running wild, doing whatever you had to, to survive. You both would stay up in the early hours of the morning. Lying down looking at the stars, talking for hours holding hands, sharing your first kiss. You were inseparable. You loved that he found family again in Bepo, Shachi, and Penguin. His heart had been through far too much, but he opened it for them. It made yours hurt less for him.

Those three little words. He felt it then with you. But his heart had been too broken, so he kept it guarded and close. Fearing what would happen to it if he uttered those words to you. Something he later regretted when you were separated again- on the run with no plan to regroup. A heist to survive, gone wrong. Law and the others managed to get to the boat you were stealing on time, but you were held up. Getting separated and then later caught by authorities. By the time you escaped, they were gone. You knew they had to leave. It hurt, but you couldn't blame them. You feared this was the end of your time with Law again. Ending abruptly like when you two met.

One of his biggest regrets was never telling you how he felt. Now he feared he would never get the chance. But it seemed the universe had different plans again. Law and his crew, the Heart Pirates, were restocking on an island- a simple routine stop. He surely wasn't looking for trouble as he was walking through the market, perusing the stalls brimming with vendors and customers alike. It was a busy morning, loud with laughter and bartering, but Law had his fill of the market. Having found a rare coin, he pocketed his purchase after paying the vendor. Making his way back to the ship, the voices grew quieter the further away he walked. He gave the crew the afternoon off, but as the captain, he had a pile of work to do. More reports, endless medical journals to read, he had a plan to start a pot of coffee and sit down in his sanctuary, his office on the Polar Tang.

The quiet abruptly ended and suddenly shouting and scrambling was coming from the market. “Stop her! Stop that thief!” a vendor screamed. Law merely peeked over his shoulder but didn't stop, it was none of his concern. As he rounded a corner leading to a bay where they were hiding the Tang, he was suddenly stopped. A woman running around the same corner slamming into his chest and bouncing back, “AHH! SHIT, watch it!” She bellowed. Law nearly stumbled over, with a scowl, ready to tear this person’s head off, he stopped in his tracks, eyes wide. He's face to face with a woman with electric teal blue hair….with the signature white streak framing her face. “Y/N!?” He gasps. 

Your eyes are wide, you're stuck frozen in place. Law…. he's right here. In front of you again. But now, he's all grown up. You hardly recognize him. Tall, filled out, covered in tattoos it seems. You can only tell by his signature hat and his same tired, piercing eyes. “Gotta go!” you rush, spinning on your heel, carrying a bag of loot of things you clearly stole from the market and running toward the tree line along the path. Law reaches out, “Wait!” he calls out as he runs after you. 

Thanks for reading! I'm pretty happy with this portion and am currently working on the remainder of it, but because my brain won't let me post anything less than what it perceives as perfect, it'll have to wait!

Tags: @shy-writer-999

Dividers by @cafekitsune

[hellsitedotcom]

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*·˚ PRETEND IT'S THE FIRST TIME ft. Moze *·˚

words: ~4k

This is a "continuation" of those First Kiss headcanons I made a while ago! [Linked in my pinned post] I literally lost my mind with this, and I'm unsure how I feel about it, but I've spent too long on it to just...not post it. [Also on AO3]

warnings/info: first part of the chapter features Guinaifen as your friend; I don't think any warnings necessary? maybe some angst, but I don't want what really qualifies as angst. [Is it obvious that I never post my writing and have no idea how to tag it?]

English isn't my native language!

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‘’Hello? Are you even listening to me?’’ 

Torn from your thoughts when someone suddenly started waving a hand in front of your face, you blinked in surprise before glancing over at the woman walking beside you, her expression a mixture of frustration and confusion. ‘’I feel like I’ve been talking to myself for the last hour,’’ Guinaifen huffed, crossing her arms while waiting for an explanation from you, ‘’Did you even catch any of the things I said?’’

‘’I’m sorry, Gui,’’ you sighed, offering her an apologetic smile before straightening up, ‘’I was just…thinking about something.’’ That was one way to explain it. You had been thinking about said ‘’something’’ for the past couple of days, and it had become apparent to anyone with a functioning pair of eyes. Even your colleagues at work had commented on your absentmindedness, given how clumsy and forgetful it had made you since…that day.

Next to you, Guinaifen shook her head, though there was no ill-intend in her reaction, ‘’I’ve noticed that much. I’m telling you, you need to work less. The stress is probably just getting to you.’’ ‘’When I picked you up this morning, I had your neighbors come up to me to ask if you were okay,’’ she sighed, staring at you, ‘’He said you haven’t left your apartment for anything but work in days. What’s going on?’’

You weren’t sure yourself, you thought. Since your transfer to the Yaoqing, your life had actually improved tremendously. You couldn’t remember the last time you were that excited and happy on the Luofu, and you hadn’t mourned your old life since. Yet recently, you felt like you were again stuck in that same everyday routine you had dreamed of escaping from back on the other flagship. And all because of one dumb, intrusive decision.

‘’I don’t know,’’ you sighed, hoping your friend wouldn’t catch the lie, ‘’It’s not work, I promise. I’ve never had a job I loved that much.’’ ‘’Maybe my subconsciousness is trying to tell me something,’’ you suggested, shrugging, ‘’I mean, it’s been a while since I was on the Luofu. Maybe I’m homesick without realizing it.’’ 

At that, the woman beside you just chuckled, throwing an arm around you to pull you into a side hug, ‘’Well, see what happens when you never visit! Huohuo and the others miss you.’’ Much to your relief, Guinaifen didn’t notice the lie, or at least, she didn’t call you out if she did. Instead, she began recalling recent stories from the Luofu as if trying to help your alleged ‘’homesickness’’. 

‘’You know, I’m sure even the General would appreciate seeing you again,’’ she hummed as you made your way back to your apartment, ‘’Actually, I was hoping to drag Sushang and Huohuo along with me, but that didn’t really work out. That’s on me, though. I should’ve planned it better.’’ 

You chuckled as you continued listening to her, this time determined not to get distracted again as you watched her. Something about the woman’s optimism and endless energy helped lift your mood, silencing the overbearing thoughts in your head, though another emotion threatened to plague you now: Guilt. Keeping secrets from your close friends was never easy, but how were you supposed to explain to her what had happened? 

By the time you arrived at the alley leading to your apartment, you felt lighter, the best you had in days. ‘’Anyway, I’m sure Sushang will want to tell you herself,’’ Guinaifen huffed, stepping in front of you, ‘’You really need to visit us soon. We need to get the group back together again! And don’t tell me Feixiao won’t let you leave!’’

‘’Well, I’ve not really talked to her in a while,’’ you admitted sheepishly, avoiding your friend’s eyes. ‘’But,’’ you quickly added, hoping to distract from that topic, ‘’I’ll see what I can do, okay? I can’t promise you anything, though.’’

You breathed a sigh of relief when the woman didn't question your words, merely rolling her eyes before she continued talking about yet another thing on her mind. Watching her head toward your apartment, you hesitated to follow when the sudden feeling of being watched made your skin crawl. Is someone there?

A glance over your shoulder toward the empty street behind you didn’t help calm your nerves, yet before you could look around any further, Guinaifen’s voice called out to you, ‘’And you’re not paying attention again. Seriously, what’s going on with you?’’

There it was again, that guilt plaguing you. You checked the street behind you one last time before walking over to your friend, an apologetic expression on your face. ‘’I’m sorry,’’ you sighed, fiddling with your hands, ‘’I just- had this feeling someone was watching us. I didn’t mean to ignore you.’’

‘’Why would someone be watching us?’’ the woman huffed with a raised brow, ‘’Besides, even if someone was watching us, why care? It’s not like we’re breaking any rules.’’ ‘’Are you sure that everything’s alright?’’ she insisted, her usually relaxed expression now serious. 

‘’No- I mean, yes, I- Fuck,’’ you just groaned, dragging your hands down your face, ‘’I don’t know. I’m not even sure how to explain it. It’s ridiculous, really.’’ Before she could ask any further questions, you pushed past her toward your home, ‘’It’s really not that important. I just made a dumb mistake, and it’s kind of been haunting me ever since.’’

Guinaifen was far from convinced as she caught up to you, blocking your way, ‘’Oh, come on now! I’ve seen you make dozens of mistakes before. You never act this way because of a stupid mistake! Spill it, what happened?’’ 

‘’I made a mistake in a conversation,’’ you tensely elaborated, wrapping your arms around yourself, ‘’I…said the wrong thing, and I’ve not had the chance to fix it yet. H- They’ve been avoiding me since then, I guess.’’ Or maybe you’ve been avoiding him, no? Suddenly, the feeling of being watched made you even more nervous. Was he watching you?

Your friend perked up at your response, her interest piqued, ‘’What do you mean, you said the wrong thing? How bad of a thing could you have possibly said?’’ Oh, guilt was a beautiful feeling, wasn’t it? Especially with how strong it was growing the more you talked to Guinaifen. 

‘’Well,’’ you struggled to find an answer, unsure how to continue building on your lie as your face turned red, ‘’I- urgh, fuck. I didn’t really say something wrong, you know. I…did something wrong? I made a dumb, intrusive decision-’’

‘’Oh my god,’’ the woman interrupted, her eyes wide, ‘’You kissed someone.’’ 

‘’How did you deduce that from one sentence?’’

‘’...I didn’t. I just thought it would be a funny reaction,’’ Guinaifen smirked, winking at you before the realization settled in, ‘’Wait, you kissed someone?! Who?!’’

‘’Keep your voice down!’’ you whisper-yelled, covering her mouth with your hand, ‘’Fucks sake, Gui. I don’t need the entire Yaoqing to know about it!’’ After making sure she wouldn’t start screaming again, you took a step back and sighed, ‘’He’s a good friend. We were…hanging out, I guess, and I got caught up in the moment and had this intrusive thought to just…yeah, and now I’ve not seen him since then.’’

‘’Oh. Oh wow,’’ the woman seemed at a loss for words, processing the information you just shared, ‘’I mean, uhm. Well, have you tried texting him?’’ 

‘’Seriously?’’ ‘’What?’’ she huffed defensively, pouting, ‘’I’ve never had that happen to me. I’m a little lost right now, okay?’’

‘’Well, you’re not the only one,’’ you muttered under your breath, walking toward your apartment door, ‘’I was hoping that maybe he told Feixiao about it, but she doesn’t seem to know anything. Jiaoqiu’s been acting like he knows something, but- yeah.’’ 

At that, Guinaifen’s mouth fell open, ‘’Wait. I need you to repeat what you just said.’’ Yet, before you could, the woman herself did it, ‘’You were hoping that he told Feixiao? As in, the General? You kissed the General’s friend?!’’

‘’Technically, he’s her personal Shadow Guard,’’ you admitted under your breath, wincing when Guinaifen screamed.

‘’What?!’’ 

‘’I told you to keep your voice down!’’

‘’How do you expect me to keep my voice down after telling me all this?!’’ she whisper-yelled, flailing her hands, ‘’You just- You kissed the General’s personal Shadow Guard?!’’

Well, at least you didn’t feel guilty anymore. You held your hand up to stop the woman from rambling, taking a deep breath before answering, ‘’Can we do this tomorrow, please? I promise I’ll tell you everything, okay? But right now, I’m just getting tired.’’

Despite not being satisfied with your answer, Guinaifen agreed with a deflated groan, ‘’Alright, fine. But I get to tell Sushang and the others-’’

‘’Absolutely not,’’ you scoffed with a raised brow, a warning in your eyes, ‘’I don’t need the entire Xianzhou Alliance to know about this, okay? I’m serious, Gui.’’ ‘’I need you to promise me that you won’t be talking about it with anyone, okay?’’ you insisted, internally already expecting the worst.

But, to your surprise, the woman nodded slowly, ‘’Alright, alright, you have my word. Only because I love you so much!’’ ‘’But that means you’ll have to tell me everything tomorrow, alright?’’ she countered, walking up to you, ‘’I need all the details, understood?’’

‘’Understood,’’ you sighed, struggling to hide your nervousness as you embraced her, ‘’Come on, you should get back to your hotel room. It’s getting late.’’ 

‘’I’ll see you tomorrow then?’’

‘’Yeah,’’ you muttered, a hand resting on your apartment’s doorknob, ‘’See you tomorrow, sunshine.’’ With that, you watched her disappear down the alley before unlocking your front door and slipping inside your apartment.

✧･ﾟ: ✧･ﾟ:

‘’Fuck,’’ you groaned, falling back against the wooden door. Well, today didn’t go quite as planned, did it? But then, did any of your recent days? After everything, today was still one of your better days since screwing up your relationship with-

‘’Moze? ’’ 

A little stunned, you blinked, hoping you were just imagining things. Yet, when the man’s silhouette didn’t disappear from your doorway, a nervous chuckle escaped your lips, ‘’What are you doing here? How did you even get inside in the first place?’’ 

‘’Through your balcony door,’’ the man calmly replied, watching you from the shadows of the hallway, ‘’You forgot to lock it.’’

‘’I- And you just decided to let yourself in?’’ you muttered in disbelief, straightening up as you made your way toward him, ‘’How long have you been waiting for me?’’ In the dim light, you could barely make out anything but his eyes, violet orbs watching your every move. 

The man just stood there, seemingly indifferent to the fact that he just trespassed on your property. ‘’Not that long,’’ he just replied, his expression obscured by shadows, ‘’Feixiao told me that you had visitors, so I figured you’d be home somewhat late. I think we got here around the same time.’’

‘’Well, that’s- okay,’’ you sighed before shaking your head and meeting his gaze again, ‘’Listen, I- Can you just give me a minute real quick? I need some water.’’ Today really feels like one big joke, you thought to yourself while pushing past him, careful not to touch him as you headed toward the kitchen, ‘’Do you want anything?’’

The man soundlessly followed after you, his presence unfortunately doing the opposite of offering you comfort, ‘’No, thank you. I don’t want to inconvenience you even further.’’ ‘’And I apologize for not informing you of my visit,’’ he muttered almost hesitantly, leaning against your kitchen wall, ‘’I didn't think of it. I’m sorry.’’

‘’Don’t rack your brains over it,’’ you dismissed his concern, pouring yourself a cup of water, ‘’I mean, I haven’t cleaned the place in days, but you'll have to deal with that now.’’ ‘’Besides,’’ you hummed, taking a sip of water, ‘’I’m sure you’ll gladly help me clean up if I ask nicely enough, no?’’ Is this really the right time for some lighthearted joking? Well, you certainly hoped it would at least ease the awkwardness.

Moze, bless his soul, just furrowed his brows, meeting your gaze, ‘’If you need me to, I can help. I don’t mind.’’ 

‘’Is that why you’re here?’’ you hesitantly asked, turning to face him, ‘’Just for some small talk? I mean, I do appreciate the visit, but it doesn’t usually warrant you breaking into my home.’’ There was a part of you genuinely hoping he’d just share some random information with you before leaving again, but deep down, you knew where this conversation would eventually lead. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have practically avoided each other for the past few days.

And, as expected, Moze confirmed your suspicion. ‘’No, I was hoping we could talk about what happened,’’ he explained, your nervosity growing with each word, ‘’Jiaoqiu thought it might be the best course of action.’’

‘’So, he knows?’’ you hesitantly inquired, tapping your finger on the kitchen counter, ‘’I mean, that we- that I- fuck, Moze, I’m so bloody sorry.’’ You stepped away from the counter, wrapping your arms around yourself as the words uncontrollably spilled from your lips, ‘’I should’ve apologized a lot earlier, I know, but I was just- bloody scared of your reaction.’’

‘’I shouldn’t have kissed you,’’ you sighed, unable to meet his gaze, ‘’I- I’m sorry I made things awkward. I wasn’t thinking, I just-’’ ‘’I should’ve said something first anyway, instead of just- doing it without warning,’’ you continued, waving your hand around, ‘’I don’t know why I did it, okay? I just- fuck.’’

The man merely watched you, waiting for you to finish before gently interrupting your rambling, ‘’I’m not angry.’’ ‘’Not to mention that I didn’t act any better,’’ he reminded you, making you stop in your tracks, ‘’I just left you on that rooftop without saying a word. Jiaoqiu chewed me out for it.’’

‘’I mean, I kissed you without your consent,’’ you muttered, your hands dropping to your sides, ‘’You had every right to just…up and leave. You’re not at any fault here.’’

‘’Well, Jiaoqiu thinks differently,’’ Moze spoke, pushing himself off the wall, ‘’He said I should’ve talked to you sooner.’’ You watched him walk around the kitchen island, keeping a respectful distance from you, ‘’Though, he did call us both idiots.’’

You chuckled, though the sound more hysterical than you intended, ‘’He’s not wrong, is he? I mean- I did kind of fuck that up. I really should’ve just- said something instead of expecting you to do so. I’m sorry, I- suck at this stuff.’’ 

‘’I think we both know I’m not the best at conversations either,’’ he replied, and for a split-second, you thought you caught him smiling at you, ‘’Maybe we should let Jiaoqiu and your friend do this for us.’’

‘’Absolutely not, that’s a horrible idea,’’ you interrupted, the thought alone making you opposed to the idea, ‘’I’d never hear the end of it.’’ ‘’Do you, uh, think Jiaoqiu told Feixiao?’’ you wondered, glancing over at him, ‘’I mean, I doubt he would do it, but you know him better than I do.’’

Moze was quiet for a moment, allowing you to move a little closer to him, ‘’Admittedly, I wouldn’t be surprised if he did tell the General, but I trust him enough not to until this is all over. You don’t need to worry about that.’’ 

‘’Oh, I’ll worry regardless,’’ you sighed, rubbing your temples, ‘’I’ve realized I’m really good at that. Worrying, overthinking, the whole thing.’’ ‘’I’ve had people at work come to me these past days to make sure I was alright,’’ there was a self-deprecating tone to your words as you recounted the past days, ‘’And earlier, Gui told me that some of my neighbors approached her to ask about my well-being. Worrying was the only thing I was doing since, you know.’’

In the dimly lit room, you couldn’t make out Moze’s expression as he watched you. Then, unexpectedly, he spoke with a gentleness you had never heard from him before, ‘’I didn’t know this was affecting you so much.’’

Your eyes widened at his words, tearing your gaze from the floor to meet his. For a second, a mixture of fear and uncertainty crossed your face before you collected yourself, clearing your throat, ‘’Well, I thought I screwed up after you just left.’’ Then, you looked away again, your voice more quiet, ‘’I guess I was terrified of losing you.’’

The silence that followed was unbearable to you, a throwback to those nerve-wracking minutes right after you had your first kiss. Internally, you were cursing yourself out, reprimanding yourself for being so open with Moze, but could you really blame yourself?

‘’Can you please say something?’’ you whispered hesitantly, wrapping your arms around yourself, nails digging into the skin of your upper arms, ‘’I’m getting a sense of déjà vu.’’ 

‘’I’m sorry,’’ the man apologized, the gentleness still there, ‘’I should’ve said something back then. I- I guess I panicked. I’ve never-’’ He fell silent before finishing the sentence, pulling his hood down to obscure his face. 

‘’I- I didn’t mean to put you in that position,’’ you quietly muttered, the grip on your arms weakening, ‘’I don’t know why I- There were so many times before that where I was in perfect control of my thoughts and actions, but that day? I can’t even explain it.’’

‘’You wanted to kiss me before?’’ Maybe you should learn when to shut up, no? Moze was already staring at you when you looked up, a storm raging in his violet eyes. 

Hesitantly, you shrugged, taking a deep breath before elaborating, ‘’I guess I did. Do- Do you remember the last Wardance? When…Hoolay escaped.’’ After Moze nodded, you continued, ‘’After everything was over, after I finally found you, I just- yeah. I think that was the first time I wanted to kiss you.’’ 

There it was again: The unbearable silence. Maybe you really shouldn’t admit all these things so openly . But, catching you by surprise in the process, Moze didn’t let it stretch this time, his voice growing unsteadier with each word, ‘’Why didn’t you do it?’’

‘’I- I didn’t think it would’ve been the right moment for it,’’ you muttered with furrowed brows, gesturing around with your hand as if to emphasize your point, ‘’I mean, you were all injured, not to mention the entire Borisin crisis. I didn’t want to add to your problems.’’

‘’You’re never a problem to me,’’ the man replied, straightening up, ‘’I might not be the best at showing it, but I care about you deeply.’’ ‘’Otherwise, I wouldn’t have kissed you back that day, don't you think?’’ he added, his voice quieter.

For a moment, you thought your heart would jump out of your chest, the beating drowning out all the noise around you as you processed his words. He did kiss you back, didn’t he? ‘’I figured maybe you just- I don’t know, had a moment of weakness?’’ you rambled, growing more nervous again, ‘’I mean, I didn't- I know you kissed me back, but I didn’t think it meant anything, I guess.’’

‘’You…thought it didn’t mean anything?’’ ‘’I was panicking, okay!’’ you argued defensively, ‘’I mean, you just disappeared without a word after that, remember? How did you think I’d react?’’ 

Moze didn’t have an answer for that, watching you silently while you continued to ramble, ‘’I’m not blaming you, I swear. I just- there wasn’t really a positive way in which I could’ve reacted to the situation, you know? How would you have reacted if you had been in my shoes?’’

Once again, no answer. Admittedly, you wouldn’t have one either if you were in his shoes. Well, and that’s that on it being an awkward situation. ‘’I feel like I’m just making this worse, aren’t I?’’ you muttered, offering him a weak smile, ‘’I’m sorry. Again. I don’t think I can apologize enough for causing- well, all of this.’’

‘’Did the kiss mean something to you?’’

Moze’s interruption caught you off-guard, eyes widening in surprise. Well, you've already admitted to wanting to kiss him a handful of times before. Confessing your feelings can't possibly lead to a worse outcome, right? ...Right? Truth be told, you weren't really sure what outcome this entire conversation was heading toward anyway, so you might as well be completely honest with him now.

Still, it took you a moment to reply, afraid of being this vulnerable. ‘’I wouldn’t have kissed you if it didn’t,’’ you hesitantly admitted, looking away, ‘’I...care about you, Moze. A lot more than I probably should. More than normal friends should.’’

‘’I think I realized even before the Wardance, but I just- hoped it’ll go away,’’ you chuckled, the sound hollow, ‘’And when it didn’t, I just kept hoping. Which obviously failed, given, you know.’’

You weren’t sure what Moze was thinking, too scared to look at him. Another silence settled between you, making you feel restless as you waited for him to say something. Anything. Please just don’t leave this time.

And he didn’t. Instead, Moze stepped in front of you, tilting your face up to look at him, his violet eyes roaming across your face until he met your gaze, ‘’Can you- Can you kiss me again, please? Pretend it’s the first time?’’ 

His voice was surprisingly soft, barely audible over the sound of your own heartbeat. Did you get that right? ‘’You want me to kiss you?’’ you breathed out, a dozen questions running through your head as you stared at him, ‘’Are- Are you sure?’’

‘’I’ve never been this sure about anything else in my life,’’ the man muttered, caressing your cheek, ‘’I’ve noticed that I- felt different around you around the time you got transferred to the Yaoqing, but I didn’t think much of it until…well, recently. The realization didn't hit me until I talked to Jiaoqiu about it and he put it into words for me.’’

‘’Oh’’ 

‘’Is…that all you want to say?’’

‘’To be honest, I never thought I’d be in this situation,’’ you admitted, still processing what he had just told you, ‘’I- I can’t believe I was terrified of losing you like, ten minutes ago, and now we’re…here.’’

‘’That’s…a good thing, isn’t it?’’

‘’I think this a better outcome than I had imagined possible,’’ you huffed, straightening up, ‘’The only thing I need to worry about now is explaining everything to Guinaifen.’’ Then, still shaking from nervousness, you leaned forward, ghosting your lips over his, ‘’May I?’’

‘’...You may.’’

And you did, gently pressing your lips against his as if afraid all this was just your imagination, that he'd vanish the second you touched him. Yet, when his arm wrapped around your waist to pull you closer, you knew you weren’t dreaming. ‘’You’re…really okay with this, right?’’ you whispered between kisses, glancing up at him, ‘’I’m not just hearing what I want to hear?’’

Moze merely responded by pressing his lips to yours again, hand wandering to the back of your neck to deepen the kiss. ‘’You worry too much,’’ he eventually muttered before pressing his forehead against yours.

‘’It’s a talent,’’ you chuckled, slightly out of breath but audibly relieved, ‘’Besides, the only reason I was so worried in the first place were you.’’

‘’May I remind you that you were the one kissing me without warning?’’ ‘’Alright, alright-’’ you groaned, just barely containing your joy, ‘’I’ll never live this down, will I?’’

You freed yourself from Moze’s grasp, turning to head toward your bedroom before stopping and glancing back at him, hesitating, ‘’Do- Do you mind staying for the night? I don’t…want you to leave just yet.’’

‘’If that’s what you want, then of course,’’ the man reassured, ‘’Just don’t start complaining when I wake you up too early.’’

‘’Don’t make me regret this, big guy,’’ you chuckled, offering him your hand while you made your way toward the bedroom, ‘’Thank you, by the way, For…well, everything.’’

‘’Always.’’

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[callester]

Contradictions portrayed by Wheeler through his apparent deviated nature when facing off Nightfall.

Unlike the ruthlessness showcased in eliminating the Westalis Intelligence agents in his escape through the utilisation of all available means (a gun discarded by an agent and using one of them as a shield), Wheeler seemed to have tuned down his aim when coming across WISE's intercept in Shellbury.

Despite having regained an advantage of breaking free from their temporary capture as well as seizing possession of a knife along the way, his supposed offensive throw had landed perfectly on the tip of the gun instead of injuring its holder, Nightfall. And judging by the fatal aim shown when ridding the Westalian agents (Mission 81), the knife's aim was likely to have been calculated when the throw was made.

Opposing his maintained radio silence throughout his escape from Westalis (Mission 81), Wheeler seemed to insist on a continuous conversational attempt with Nightfall upon their encounters, including unsolicited remarks on Nightfall's "cold-hearted" personality.

Feeling triumphant upon discovering Nightfall's "sentimental attachment" had caused Wheeler to tempt her explosive anger, in which eventually led to his own defeat by the end of their clash.

Note: While posing as an intimidating antagonist in this arc, Wheeler's contradicting demeanor throughout his interactions with Nightfall had been an interesting side case to observe upon.

Wheeler's Arc Parallels: Part I • Part II • Part III

[katvonbirb]

#ok so who's going to write annoying prof zyz and serious grad student who just wants to finish his degree zyc Me, apparently. /shrug

The first day of class, the professor for Zhuo Yichen's Intro to Comparative Biology is nearly fifteen minutes late. Zhuo Yichen's classmates have started making noise about how long they're supposed to wait before class is effectively canceled by the time the door opens.

Professor Zhao Yuanzhou is younger than Zhuo Yichen had anticipated based on his brother's reports, long hair pulled back in a haphazard bun that's kept in place with a hairpin the color of old bone. He's got a stack of books in one hand and a coffee in the other and looks distinctly unhurried, as if he's not incredibly late to his own class. There's a shuffling throughout the room, the bits of conversation shushed into whispers.

"Ah, settle down, settle down," Professor Zhao says, smiling at the girls in the third row as he sets his books down on the podium and leans one elbow on it. The girls titter behind their hands as he turns the smile on the rest of the class.

Shameless, Zhuo Yichen thinks and ignores the hint of a dimple. He's here to learn, not be distracted by attractive members of the faculty.

"Sorry I'm late, the apple trees were blooming and I simply had to stop and admire them," Professor Zhao continues and Zhuo Yichen is nearly positive the girl two seats down swoons. "Anyway, welcome to Intro to Comparative Biology. I don't bother with the nonsense of making a syllabus, but so long as you show up and pay attention, you'll do just fine."

Zhuo Yichen adjusts the alignment of his notebook. What hypocrisy. His brother had gone above and beyond just showing up and paying attention and it had gotten him a failing grade in Professor Zhao's class and a recommendation to a different track of study.

"Showing up won't be a problem, with a face like that to look at," someone mutters behind Zhuo Yichen, earning a small murmur of agreement from the students nearby. Professor Zhao glances their way and Zhuo Yichen can see the moment Professor Zhao notices him, the stutter in that easy smile before it spreads a little wider. He doesn't think it's an illusion, the way Professor Zhao seems to sharpen, focused, even as he leans a little heavier against the podium.

"Ah, now there's a familiar face. I think I had the pleasure of having your brother in my class before?" Professor Zhao asks and Zhuo Yichen can feel the back of his neck going hot with the sudden focus of both teacher and classmates. He takes a breath.

"Yes," he says, back straight and chin up. "And I'm going to pass this class no matter what."

Professor Zhao understands; he can see the tightening of his eyes, the slight part in his lips. Zhuo Yichen doesn't look away.

"I see," Professor Zhao says after a moment and his voice is amiable but his eyes are lit with something that feels like it should burn across the empty space between them. "I'll look forward to it, then."

He looks away first, says something to the rest of the class, but Zhuo Yichen can't hear it over the sudden roaring in his ears, the way his heart is rabbiting against the back of his throat.

ZYZ’S PART-TIME JOB WHEN THE BUREAU TEAM LEAVES HIM OUT 😭

[chaotic-kitty]

.....what?

Perhaps I'm misunderstanding the episode/set up - which is entirely possible - but, I figured the episode featuring Ventress was more there to let us as a fandom know she didn't have any real force potential, even though she has a high M-count. I figured they figured we'd think that, so they included a storyline to let us know that isn't the case. Then again, I suppose the ending was left a tad ambiguous. But man, force wielding Omega would be interesting, but like, she's also soild as is. I don't see the need to go down that route. I guess we'll see.

But also, tragic fate? Who says she's gonna have a tragic fate?? Don't jinx her😭

[forcedhesitation]

this undeniably has to be one of the worst opinions I've seen about this season. like out of the plentiful failures season 4 had... you really couldn't choose one to talk about? max's mental health was one of the only things that I felt season 4 handled pretty damn well.

I do think it could have been better written, yes. the ending of her arc in season 4 was....insulting at best.

but overall? the show does a great job of addressing that max actually hated billy (she literally fucking admits to wishing for his death) and that her grief is more complicated than just missing a person. because she wasn't missing a person! she was ultimately glad billy was gone. but even in death, he torments her.

she watched a person she grew up with be brutally murdered by some fleshy abomination, RIGHT in front of her. her shitbag step father bailed on her and her mother after billy died, forcing them to move to the trailer park. her mother abuses alcohol and is never home because she's always working so they can afford to live in the trailer park. her friend group has been split in two by the byers moving away, which took el away from her too. she doesn't know how to reach out to lucas, deep down doesn't feel she deserves his love & concern, despite lucas' best efforts (vecna literally taunts her with lucas turning on her at the final confrontation). she wished so badly to have someone like steve in billy, but she knows that billy would never be that person. he was the complete opposite & she can't just have steve in his place. she mourns the brother she never had. she is devastated by the way billy still hurts her, even after he's gone.

she's what. fourteen??? when this all happens?

like the death of an abuser is never so simple as "hooray! I am so very joyous now that the source of my pain is gone!" the damage an abuser inflicts on you is not some cut to the skin that can be healed and one day forgotten. it's so much more tortuous than that. especially for a child.

[teddyeddiediaz]

Eddie's warm body lays above him, his warm weight trapping him. His chocolate brown eyes stare down at him like he's staring at god, intense and overwhelming but filled with something that he can't get enough of. Buck's own eyes drop to Eddie's pink, slightly swollen lips, and he can't resist getting another taste. Eddie apparently has the same idea because he meets him in the middle, mouths connecting as sparks like lightning descend down his spine - and Buck would know.

Eddie pulls him in closer, chests pressed together like they're trying to merge together. He gets his arms under Buck's broad back, fingers digging in as he tries to pull him closer, closer, closer. Eddie lets out a displeased whine of need, and Buck chuckles into his mouth, their breaths intertwined.

Buck lets out a gasp as Eddie turns them, rolling them over and pulling Buck down til he's lying on top of him, letting out a breath of air that gets lost within Buck's mouth. Eddie wraps his legs around Buck's back, clinging to him like a lifeline, pressing every ounce of love into his passionate kiss. Buck pulls back to stare at him, pupils blown wide as he watches the man he loves laid bare for him. He kisses the freckle below his eyes, kisses his check, his nose, moves further down, ignoring the whine that slips from Eddie's mouth. He travels down his neck, sucking and nipping at his jaw until the whine is replaced with moans, Eddie bucking up into Buck when he can't resist biting at his pulse point. The action causes their cocks to rub against each other, and Buck whimpers into the sweat-lathered skin of Eddie's neck. His dick is pulsing with need, swollen and sore, begging for release.

He ignores it in favour of continuing his assault of Eddie's body, sucking until bruises bloom into the caramel skin. He can't get enough. He smells so masculine, a faint undertone of his body wash that Buck has grown so familiar with. How is Buck supposed to resist the earthy scent mixed with some spice he can't name - something so Eddie. He doesn't.

Kissing his way down Eddie's torso he licks up the beads of sweat that pool against his chest hairs, sucking in the salty tang that lights up the tastebuds in his mouth. Little desperate noises leave his mouth as he continues, sounds turning into a groan as Eddie's fingers tug at his curls, the perfect balance of pain and pleasure, sending a jolt down to his groin. He knew he grew out his hair for a reason. He's further rewarded as Eddie's fist tightens in his hair, tugging more and more, his eyes rolling back.

He doesn't think he can ever get enough of this. Ever get enough of Eddie. But God if he doesn't try.

He makes small jerked movements at his hips, rubbing his leaking cock against Eddie's as he sucks his nipple into his mouth, biting at the sensitive flesh until they pebble under his tongue. Eddie groans, head dropping back against the mattress. Buck continues on the other side, jerking his hips faster as he seeks his own relief. His mind is heady from the overwhelming, intoxicating scent of his boyfriend.

Eddie's nails dig into his back, leaving scratches as he tries to meet Buck's thrusts with his own, their dicks sliding together with a delicious friction, only Buck's leaking precome to lubricate them.

He feels the familiar heat growing in his gut, Eddie's movements becoming more erratic below him. He mouths as his chest hair, savouring the tang before forcing himself up, quickly consuming Eddie's mouth. This kiss is open-mouthed and lazy. They're breathing the same air, tongues trying to tangle each other, much like their bodies, in an attempt to get as close as they can.

He ruts against him, hips stuttering as pleasure spreads through his bones, panting into Eddie's lips below him as he closes his eyes in pleasure. Eddie echoes the same loud moans as himself as they continue to move against each other, drawing out their pleasure. Buck's come shoots across Eddie's chest, quickly joined by the remnants of Eddie's own pleasure. The white fluid pools in the crevasses of his abs, droplets reaching up to his chest hair where they stick, waiting for Buck to suck up.

He lets out a moan, the sound reverberating through his body as he licks up their combined tastes, slumping down ontop of Eddie fully. The man lets out a 'hmph' but wraps his arms around him tighter to ensure he doesn't move. Their come lays sticky between them and they know they'll have to get up, but neither cares right now.

Eddie tugging on Buck's curls and Buck licking a line up Eddie's chest hair, send post.

[zahnffxiv]

this evaluation has reached its ultimate conclusion. mark the omega protocol status as completed. thank you for your participation. together, we have prevailed.

[eleventhsister]

I have something for barriss day, but I probably won't be able to post it until late tonight or tomorrow since I have been shirking my responsibilities 👍

[whump-queen]

For the five sentence thing!

Whumpee let out a small whimper as [intimate] whumper entered the small catered-to room. With chains in Whumpers hands, Whumpee scoots further up the bed away from him, awaiting fearfully for whumpers plans.

The flick of a switchblade was all he needed to hear. The way the blue light flashed through Isaac’s dark green irises, glinting off of the edge of the blade as it clicked open.

Cool metal pressed against his neck, the edge digging in just above his hammering pulse.

That was all he needed to feel. He knew.

Today was the day. He was sure of it.

All those promises to cut him to pretty red ribbons weren’t for nothing.

Today was the day Isaac would finally kill him.

[thisismyworldyeah]

.

[monn-i]

going to boston tmrw to see an actual doctor.. hopefully i get properly diagnosed and medicated this time.. so tired of unqualified and unprofessional “doctors” being absolute shit and me not realizing so i end up feeling like im doing smth wrong…