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[s-4pphics]

errr hi cont to this or whatever combating my depression with horny crazy lesbians with parental trauma goodbye again

—

Guilt festers in Ellie like hornets.

She hardly remembers the last time she’s seen you. The turbulence that roared within you for months had finally reached its peak, and it sent you crashing into a static-filled void — an unsettling tranquility. Whenever she’s home, you don’t say a word to her, fully committed to the bind that reinforces your lack of autonomy. But still, the house stays clean, dinner stays served, and Ellie stays guilty.

She can’t pinpoint for what exactly — her aggression towards you throughout your marriage, her ignorance to your suffering, for leaving you alone to wilt while she goes and lives her life like you don’t exist, like the weight of the band on her finger doesn’t snare whenever they dig inside someone else.

Divorce. Divorce…

If it ever occurs, both families will bury you, then Ellie, then each other, only leaving behind wasteful bundles of inheritance and homes with no name. But death… It has to be better than this crushing burden in her stomach. It has to be.

There’s water running. Right above where Ellie sits on the couch with a bouncing knee, fiddling with her wedding ring. Her heart thumps in her chest when the rush stops. You must be in the bath.

The thought should make Ellie flush and stutter; the image of her beloved wife bare and surrounded by bubbles from the neck down, scented with lavender and incense, soft as ever.

But she can only see you drowning. Breathing water into your lungs as you fight against your own will to survive. Your screams are loud beneath suffocation, battered as you…

Call out to her—

“Ellie.”

She flinches at your presence from behind, heart racing at the sight of you in your robe and dripping hair, somehow disheveled despite your cleanliness. Ellie swallows dryly when water drips down your neck and seeps into your gown’s collar. The tie is synched around your waist and your breasts are pushed together from its tightness and Ellie’s lost her mind because she shouldn’t be gawking like this. Her eyes fly back to the vacant windows that bring such torture.

“I ran your bath.”

You turn to leave without another glance, already up three— five steps before Ellie mutters,

“Thank you.”

She sees your shoulders stiffen, and she shifts uncomfortably where she sits. It might be the first time you’ve heard any verbal appreciation from her. From anyone, matter of fact. Ellie’s heart thrashes in her chest at the look you give over your shoulder: confused… and so, so tired. The emptiness within them sends her stomach into knots, churning up that treacherous feeling that makes her ill whenever she really looks at you.

But then you smile, soft lips curled around pearly teeth. Dark. Empty.

“Anything for my wife.”

The term of endearment is poisonous on your tongue. Small hairs on Ellie’s arms are upright and thrum with fear and embarrassment and… shockingly enough, something else. Something dirty and thoughtless. It’s the maroon robe. It has to be.

“Should I prep you for the bath, as well?”

Your tone is hateful. Mockingly so. Why does Ellie’s face burn? Why do her nails dig into the cushion beneath her? Why is her breathing so shaky? Why is her body so hot? Because of you, of all people, and you’ve barely spoken to each other. You hate her and she hates you so why why why.

Disgusted eyes rake over Ellie’s squirming form, and a smirk grows on your face.

“I’ll be upstairs.” Voice soft as a feather, but your feet are weighted with each stomp up the stairs.

Ellie can’t halt her fear for what waits for her in your bedroom. Fear has never made her thighs rub together this much.

—

Ellie’s in a fever dream.

You put something in her wine from earlier. She’s knocked out cold and this is all a fucked up, sadistic nightmare. The lavender scent that floats through the marble bathroom isn’t real, the candles that burn with cinnamon aren’t real, the last sizzles from the bathbomb melting into the water isn’t real, your hands aren’t… She can’t feel them. They��re definitely not real. Not where they gently massage her shoulders.

But they are. How fucked up is Ellie. It’s been all of two minutes and she’s already memorized your fingerprints through her button up. Nothing but guilt, guilt, guilt and fear and arousal that makes her more guilty. What sick game are you playing at. You’re so fucking sick.

“You’re so tense, wife… You really needed this bath, huh?”

Your nails sink into her shoulders and Ellie can almost feel your venom eating away at her bloodstream. Her toenails scrap against the tile through her socks. She won’t stop fiddling with her wedding ring. A sign of guilt. An act of nerves.

Your hands drag from her neck to her collarbones and she shivers whenever your nails rake through her. They reach the top button of her shirt. Each pop of a button sends aggressive rattles to Ellie’s ribcage.

Before your meddling fingers stop.

Her flushed chest rises with rapid breaths. Your eyes sear and they’re electric. Ellie’s heart stops when she realizes where your attention is.

A blotchy, ruby-red bruise sits right in between her breasts. The bite glows blue where it fades. It taunts you. Ellie can see it where your jaw clenches. Guilt guilt guilt guilt—

“Who gave you that?”

You sound so innocent. Her anxiety will peak in an instant.

“No one.”

Ellie gasps sharply when buttons clatter to the floor, angered hands ripping open her shirt, prying the fabric from her shoulders and letting it drop to the floor. She’s stiff as a board, unable to move, forbidding to combat your aggression. Why does she allow you to take?

“Who gave that to you?” You grit before reaching for her Louis Vuitton belt, pulling it from the loops and throwing it behind you. “Huh? A friend of mine? A family member? Someone I know?”

You smile like it excites you to know who wrecked your home. Who your wife abandoned you for, all for a fix — to exist outside of her body and not think about the world she despises. Ellie shakes her head. Why does she wish to appease you all of a sudden? She’s never cared; never hesitated to flaunt her lechery to you in the late hours of the night. Why now?

“How long ago? How gorgeous was she? Did she give you everything you desired—“

“Stop—“

“Maybe you should invite her over,” You suggest painfully, seductively while you treat her slacks with the same violence, “I’m sure our parents wouldn’t mind a third. More money, right? She’s rich, isn’t she?”

Your suggestion sends knives into her throat. Her hands clamp down onto your arms to get you off. To pull you closer. Fuck, fuck —

“Bring all your whores here, matter of fact!” You screech and fight against Ellie’s grip on your wrists. “I’ll let them fuck me with you if you want! I’m sure it’d please you, wife—“

Ellie nearly vomits when slick drips from her at the imagery; you completely engulfed by the pleasure you deserve for being such a good wife, fucked to peak after peak. Hands all over you, bruised to hell, stress-free. She’d give you that. Only she could give you that. No one else, fuck, just her—

She uses all her strength to shove you into the wall near the sink, ripping your hands from her pants and shoving them behind you, holding you still as you thrash and shout obscenities.

Her heart breaks when you release the loudest sobs she’s ever heard from you, and all she can do is apologize. Whisper calming words against your wet cheeks.

“Look at me, look at me, fuck, m’sorry—“

“Why me! What d-did I do to deserve this! Why — why —“

“I know, I’m sorry, I know I know—“

Ellie blows cool air all over your cheeks. Gentle brushes of wind that ice your boiling skin before your hollers turn to devastated whimpers. She watches you self-soothe, blows more air on your face, redirects your attention onto her.

“Look at me.” She says into your skin.

You whimper and shake your head, eyes downcast at her feet.

“Can you do that for me so we can talk?”

“I don’t wanna fucking talk to you.”

Ellie huffs a laugh at your insolence, “Fair, but I need you to calm down. Can we agree on that?”

“I didn’t drown you. That’s as calm as you’re gonna get.”

Ellie smiles sadly, “Also fair.”

“You’re fucking dead to me.”

“… Potty mouth.”

Ellie loosens her grip on your wrists when you shove her off you, head plopping onto the wall as you gaze at her, eyes filled with rage and possessiveness and lust. For once, your eyes mirror hers.

Your robe isn’t as tight after your fighting, a glimpse of a nipple peeking beneath the deep red cloth. She shouldn’t look, not when you're this vulnerable and hurt, but she can’t help it. She can’t explain it, but she wants you to see how hungry she is for you. So much guilt.

She doesn’t know how to love, to be kind, to dote like a wife should. She can’t do that with you. But she stares, gazes at you with territory. What she’d give to be all over you.

Her ogling pauses when you laugh to yourself, cheeks still glistening under the candlelight. Ellie frowns despite the butterflies in her stomach.

“You’re crazy.”

You don’t adjust your scattered dress, pushing yourself off the wall and into Ellie’s chest. You invade her senses like she wants; her body aches and shakes when your breasts touch hers. She can smell you. All you have to do is inch closer. Your noses almost touch. She just needs a bit more from you and you’ll have her. All to yours—

“Enjoy your bath…”

Your lips tickle hers,

“Ellie.”

Her teeth sink into her bottom lip when you vanish into the bedroom. She's never climbed in there with you, but she just might.

-

-

-

Ellie didn’t believe you when you said she was dead in your eyes, but now, she realizes you might’ve actually meant it. She assumed you to be a vessel of patriarchy, of status, of everything she loathes, but you’re unraveling before her eyes, inklings of your true self seeping through the cracks of your parents’ mold.

You might be just as vile as she is. You might even have her beat. You do want her dead.

What else can she think as she sinks lower into her bath to hide her shock, eyes glued to the glass dildo that still drips with your slick at the edge of the tub? Right next to your wedding ring.

How nasty would she be to use your cum as lube while she fucks herself in the shower? How gross would you be if you awoke from your slumber to watch her get off to you?

… Come to think of it, you both never consummated your marriage.

You deserve to wake up to something nice.

[jenna-ortega]

history of man

pairing - joelmiller x femalereader ratings - 18+ word count - 4k warnings - arranged marriage AU, dubious con(the whole arranged marriage against readers will thing), angst, brat!reader, softdom!joel, kidnapping, jumpscare!david, salt lake but a very different salt lake than the games (aka no cannibalism) , panic attack authors note - thank you for waiting for this! i really hope you enjoy it, no smut in the first chapter :( (ik boooo) but there will be smut to come. cause you know joel miller is nothing if not a seducer of woman. comment, and let me know what you think! lets have a discourse.

SUMMARY - You thought coming to silver lake would be better than your previous QZ living situation. Come to find out, you had more than freedom waiting for you on the other side of the wall. You had Joel Miller, whether you wanted him or not.

series masterlist

Fuck this. Fuck him. They hold you hostage then offer you food and water? This shit doesn’t feel right. Your whole body turns away from him. Pushing the glass further from you as you pout.  “Drink.”  “No.”   “Now. The growl in his voice startles you. For someone who swears they aren’t going to hurt you, it feels a hell of a lot like he is. Your eyes find his, now dark with a scowl on his face.  “I’m not gonna tell ya again, girl.”  You scoff. “What…you’re gonna force me?” 

Nothing you’ve been through thus far could have prepared you for this. 

It’s dark. So, so dark. 

“Get off me!” you screamed while trashing your body in the man's arms. Earning you an elbow to the side that made you groan at the harsh hit. Your body trembling, wishing you could see through the pitch black area ahead. 

You arrived at Silver lake only a short time ago, not realizing how much of a mistake this stop in your long journey would be. You only made it a few hours into nightfall trying to observe the town from the far woods when a bunch of men caught you from behind. Now dragging you across the snowy town and making a scene of it. 

“I will KILL you!” Your empty threats made the man dragging your left arm along laugh, causing you to turn your head and give him a nasty look. 

“Hear that, ted?” the mystery man nodded his head to the man on your right, “we caught a feisty one. Know just who’d like this one…” the men disregarded your attempts at kicking, laughing as they went back and forth as if this was just another day. 

You made it to what looked like some sort of run down restaurant, your brain working over time to think of every possible scenario that could happen here. Worst is you’re dead. Best is they feed you, cloth you, and tell you this was all a prank. But you doubt it’s the latter. 

You huff out a small ouch as you’re being thrown into a makeshift jail cell at the back of the place you surveyed earlier, hitting the grown so hard dust particles float in the bright white light casting above you. 

“Don’t move.” the taller man shouts down at you, 

Your eyes roll at the request, “Nowhere to go in here, jackass.” you cross your arms and death glare at him from below. 

“Fucking bitch,” his hand grabs your hair from in between the bars and drags you to it. Your whole body moved to follow his hand, trying to shield yourself from the pinching pain, 

“HEY!, get off her, man. You know they’ve gotta be in one piece.” the other man warns, thankfully giving your scalp a break from the pull. 

“Whatever.” he scoffs, turning to walk out with his buddy. Both of their backs towards you. You slap the cell bars and scream in frustration. Quickly realizing you needed to figure out your next move. You need to stay alive, you need to get the fuck out of here. Your body pushes itself against the wall, head falling back as you begin to silently cry. Nobody here but you and your thoughts for the foreseeable future. Your head falls against the wall, and your eyes close. Forcing yourself into slumber. 

—

Drool begins to dry on your face before you are suddenly awakened by the loud slam of a door. You gasp, waking up and forgetting this is now where you have been staying. A cold, dirty cell floor. You look up quickly and your eyes find a taller man, one you haven't seen before; walking slowly towards you. You instinctively crawl to the further edge of the cell.

“Stay back.” you warned, as if you had any upper hand in this situation. 

“m’sorry to scare you” the strangers hands raise in defense as he stopped walking towards you. “Just wanted to check on you.” He stands with his arms to his side now. Waiting on your next move. 

“Check on me?” you begin, voice dripping with malice. “I was just kidnapped and thrown into this fucking cell.” his eyes follow your body as you kneel to stand up. Wiping down your pants to get the dust off. Fully standing, now closer to his height. 

His face is flat and stern as he begins to observe how you are acting. Deeply in his own thoughts as he looks down at the ground, only to be brought back by your incessant nagging, 

“HELLO! Can you even hear me?” 

“I want to help you” 

You’re confused by his bold statement, but accept his help by nodding slowly as you walk towards him in your cell.

“You’re not leaving this cell until they think you’re calm enough…and you’re not leaving this town. At least not alive, I’m sorry.” 

“What does that even mean? What do you guys even want from me?” 

“It’s not the right time.” the man turns on his heels and begins walking out, leaving you more pissed than you originally were.

“Please, please don’t leave yet!” you whined,

He turns his head over his shoulder slightly to acknowledge your plea, his back still to you.There is a comfortable silence until he breaks it, “What’s your name?” 

You go back and forth with yourself for a little while, wondering if you should be honest. You have to get out of here, and maybe he is your best bet. If you play nice with him, maybe you can bring his guard down enough to get released and escape. You’ll play this role for now, and you tell him your name in a silent whisper. 

He nods in acknowledgement, and you throw his question back to him. Another silence looming before he breaks it, 

“Joel.” 

—

It’s been hours.

The metallic clang echoed through the dimly lit room as a new man fumbled with rusty keys. You squinted at the sudden sound as he swung the creaking cell door open. His average figure standing at the opening of your cell, beckoning you to come with him.  

“About time," you muttered, rubbing your eyes and standing up.

The man flashed a wry smile, his reddish beard framing weathered features. "Apologies for the delay. We don't get many visitors here in Silver Lake, and security is tight." 

You stay silent as you give him a shy smile. Following him out of the room, and close on his trail as you walk an appropriate distance away from him as he brings you outside. It’s an oddly calm vibe, and you begin to overthink. Is this your chance to run, he’s giving you so much freedom…would he be able to even catch you? He does look kind of older, skinner than the other men you’ve had the pleasure of interacting with. As if he reads your mind, he breaks your thought pattern, 

“Sorry about my guards. They can be protective of this place.” he eyes your bruises, 

“What is this place?”

The man gestured for you to follow again as he led you through town. "Silver Lake is more than just a town. It's a haven for those who survived the apocalypse, a place where people from different walks of life came together to rebuild what was lost."

As you walked, you noticed families huddled in makeshift homes, the sounds of children playing echoing through the air. The aroma of cooking wafted from a communal kitchen, and people greeted you with nods as you both passed.

"It's been a tough journey, but we've managed to create something special here," the man continued. "We have families, we have friends, we’re a community"

“A community that throws people into dark dungeons and leaves them there for days?” you bite back, causing him to stop in his tracks, turning to you. 

“I am very sorry about that. Let’s start over.” he holds his hand out for you to shake, “I’m David. And who might you be?” 

You give him a funny look, face scrunching in disgust, not wanting to do whatever this is. But you remember what Joel had told you. Remember your plan to play along. 

You shook his hand and told him your name, earning a smile from him, “It’s very nice to meet you.” 

The air was thick with a sense of uncertainty the rest of the walk. You both ended up at a rather small house, the look of it just like every single other one. As you approached the house, the wooden boards creaked beneath your feet. The windows, covered with tattered curtains, revealed only glimpses of the dim interior. A sturdy figure with a graying beard stood on the porch, his eyes scrutinizing the surroundings.

"David," Joel called out, a tight smile breaking through the gruff exterior. "Wasn’t expectin’ you so soon." 

“Thought I’d bring her here, have her rest up by you. Get acclimated to the community.” 

You’re confused by David’s words. Was Joel one of his guards? Like the other two men who had caught you? You have so many questions you wanted to ask, but you were insecure. Didn’t know if these were people you could really trust or not, and you just wanted to make it out of here. You had to push through, had to endure whatever the hell this was. Just until you were able to make it out. 

David begins to introduce you both, but Joel raises his hand stopping David’s words– “We’ve met.” 

David looks at Joel in a peculiar way, a way you couldn’t quite decipher yet. Then back at you, grinning widely, “Glad you’re taking this so well, Joel.” he walks back off down the stairs, turning back just once to shout, “You’re in good hands!” 

You sway back and forth slowly, hands crossing over the other as your gaze is glued to the ground. You don’t know what to think, what to do, what to say…

“You can come in.” 

—

You’ve been sitting in silence for the past 30 minutes while Joel is simmering something on the stove. His kitchen table is small, and placed in the corner of his modest sized kitchen. It all looks so..normal. So much like how it was before. You watch Joel as he stirs the big pot, banging the spoon handle on the side to watch the sauce drip back down into the pot. He brings the spoon back down onto the counter, turning towards you to sit. You rip your gaze away from him, pretending you haven’t been observing his every move.

“You’re nervous?” His voice is soft. He is still standing at this point, noticing you flinch as he goes to sit. You get the feeling he isn’t bad…but at this point, you don’t know what to think. You look up at him, biting your lip as you stay silent. 

“m’not gonna hurt you.” he reminds you. Joel grabs a cup from his counter, turning on the faucet and pouring you water. Water. You haven’t seen a stable source of water in…oh god it’s been long. 

Joel takes note of the glint in your eyes as he pours you a cup, taking a deep breath in relief. Seeing you nervous only makes the seed of guilt in his stomach grow. The soft look of fear you’ve had plastered on your face since he’s seen you makes him angry. You shouldn’t be here. You shouldn’t have to do this. 

“Here.” He sets the water down in front of you, sitting in the seat next to you. 

Fuck this. Fuck him. They hold you hostage then offer you food and water? This shit doesn’t feel right. Your whole body turns away from him. Pushing the glass further from you as you pout. 

“Drink.” 

“No.”  

“Now.

The growl in his voice startles you. For someone who swears they aren’t going to hurt you, it feels a hell of a lot like he is. Your eyes find his, now dark with a scowl on his face. 

“I’m not gonna tell ya again, girl.” 

You scoff.

“What…you’re gonna force me?” 

“f’i have to.” 

“Then go ahead.” 

You hear him grumble to himself, words that resemble “fucking stubborn.” as he pushes out his chair, pushing it back in roughly. He slams a bowl down on the counter, causing you to gasp. You watch as he scoops a few spoonfuls of food into the bowl, turning abruptly to slam it down in front of you. Rushing off after he does. Leaving you to ponder your own thoughts. You’re looking down at the steamy bowl of what looks like a stew as you hear the front door slam open and closed. He’s left you. Has he gone to tell David about your interaction? Shit. You should have listened to him, you wanted to play this smart. Now for all you know this will be the last bowl of food you’ll have in a while. Will they bring you back down to the cell? Your thoughts frighten you into eating scoops of the food, taking huge gulps of water. Your belly burns from the nutrients you’ve been neglecting yourself for weeks. You sip the last remnants of liquid from the bowl and get up to set it down into the sink. With Joel gone, you were free to roam the house. But you just felt like a scared little mouse, too afraid to disturb anything not familiar. 

You’ve decided against your better judgment to take a look at the place. Just until someone eventually comes back to take you away. 

You look around the living room first, a small brown couch, enough to fit three bodies comfortably sits directly across from a fireplace. A mantle with nothing but dust lays atop of the fireplace, not homey at all. You inspect the room, finding nothing that tells you about the man who left you here. You decide to move on. 

There are 4 stairs that lead up into what looks like a small wing of the house, the last square footage you have left to survey. To your left, a small bathroom. A large tub, one that reminds you of yours from home. Bubble baths and candle lit nights fog your memory. You surprise yourself as you feel water run down your eyes. Tears. Shit. This is all too much. 

Just a few feet down, there’s an empty room with nothing but the sunlight of the open window shining through. Directly across, there’s another room. You break through that doorway and find a bed, a nightstand, and what looks to be a 6 drawer dresser filling the room. So empty, yet you wonder how he lives. You walk towards the drawers, opening up the top left one to find a few pairs of flannels. Of course. You open the top right and find it empty. He must travel light. 

You get bored and begin walking to the bed, sitting atop of it to feel how soft the sheets are. You haven’t sat down on a bed in forever. So comfortable. The sheets stretched over the bed softer than you remember sheets being. The pillows are fluffier than you ever felt. The blanket is so warm…so…inviting. Your body does it before your brain thinks of it. Crawls under the covers. Your head hits the soft pillow, and you feel your eyes closing and your brain settling down. Your shoulders relax into the mattress, and your breathing evens out. You’re gone before you know it. 

…You feel a thump on the bed that startles you awake, darkness engrosses the room and you thrash in bed to find your bearings. 

“Joel?” you rub your eyes and see him standing in front of the bed, you look down to see fresh clothes lying next to you. 

“Take a shower. We got somewhere to be.”

—

You are trying to catch up to Joel as he’s walking ahead of you, “Slow down!” you shouted to him, stumbling over your feet as you grabbed his arm to stay up.

“We’re already late,” 

“For what?” 

He huffs, but begins walking slower for you. Both of you now silently walk into the same restaurant you were kept at just a day ago. Your body goes rigid as you think of all the things that will happen. You fucked up. You did this to yourself, you didn’t follow the—your thoughts pause as you see the place crawling with people. Like a huge get together, chatter and laughs bounce off the walls. It’s so…alive. 

The crowd of people part, and all eyes are now on you and Joel. David at the forefront of the room. “Welcome, Welcome! We’ve been waiting for you two.” he laughs as he walks past the sea of people to you both, grabbing onto Joel’s shoulder and smiling widely,  “Hopefully you were late for a fun reason,” he winks at you two and you shudder, what the fuck was this guy assuming? You rip your hand off Joel’s arm, patting down your dress and making note of all the faces in the room. Your eyes catch the two men from your capture, hand and hand with ladies. How the hell did they land those girls? They were absolute dicks to you. But as you rip those men apart in your head, you notice everyone is coupled up. Kids in the mix as well. Maybe the community wasn’t terrible…seems family oriented at least. 

You follow Joel to the front of the room, wanting to stick by him and not venture off too far. He seemed to be a rigid asshole sometimes, but he was an asshole that didn’t hurt you yet. You stand close to him, arms bumping as you look up at him. He looks down at you, smiling with his eyes turned down, a worried look etched on his face. Maybe he was as anxious at public events as you were. 

“Please, everyone welcome our newcomer into silver lake!” David introduced you by name to the room, the whole room saying hello directly towards you in a cult like manner. 

“Uh–Hi everyone?” you stuttered, heart beating so fast the pounding began to overtake your hearing. 

David’s speech began again, mentioning new updates and new hunts their men had succeeded at. You zoned out again, only brought back to the present by Joel nudging you gently, your head batting to look towards David who had beckoned you to stand on the other side of Joel, sandwiched between the two men. You smiled and nodded, doing as you were told for this one instance. Put on the spot as you got comfortable in your new position, David called upon you, 

“She has been a wonder, ladies and gentlemen. An absolute prize. That’s why I think we should all welcome her with open arms.”

You stood by David's side, feeling the curious eyes of the community upon you. Joel, a stern figure with a rugged exterior, stood nearby. The unease in the room was palpable as David continued his introduction.

"And this, my friends, is a crucial time for us. Unity is our strength, and it's my pleasure to announce that we have a new bond to forge. In the days to come, our friend here will be joining hands with Joel."

Your heart skipped a beat, panic creeping into every fiber of your being. You exchanged a wary glance with Joel, whose expression remained stoic. David's words echoed in your ears like an impending storm.

"Joel," David continued, "our only hermetic guard, will stand as a pillar of strength for our newcomer. Together, they will contribute to the resilience of Silver Lake and ensure the prosperity of our community."

A lump in your throat formed, the weight of the announcement settling in. Arranged marriage—a relic of a bygone era—now thrust upon you in the midst of survival. Your eyes darted between David and Joel, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

"Survival often demands sacrifices," David said, his tone filled with conviction. "And in this new chapter, we come together to build a stronger, more resilient future."

The room buzzed with whispers, but you could only hear the thudding of your own heart. Joel's gaze met yours, and you saw a glimmer of understanding in his eyes, as if he, too, had been thrust into this against his will.

As the community welcomed you both with a mix of cheers and polite applause, you felt the walls closing in. The air grew heavier, and your breaths quickened. This was worse than the cell. This was worse than your impending death. This was something you could have never seen coming. 

As David's words lingered in the air, a suffocating tension settled over the room. The weight of the announcement hung over you like a dark cloud, and you couldn't bear the collective gaze of the community any longer. Without a word, you turned on your heels and bolted from the room, breaths coming in erratic gasps.

The cold night air hit you as you stumbled into the open, the dim glow of lanterns casting long shadows over the uneven ground. Panic gripped you like a vise, and you ran blindly through the narrow pathways, seeking solace in the darkness.

"Wait!" Joel's voice echoed behind, his footsteps closing in. You refused to stop, the desperation to escape overwhelming reason. But he caught up, his hand gently gripping your shoulder. "Stop."

You whirled around, chest heaving, eyes wide with fear. "I can't do this, Joel."

He stepped closer, his gaze softening. "None of us asked for this. But we're survivors, and sometimes survival means making tough choices."

You shook your head, the panic escalating. "I won't be someone's pawn. I won't let them control my life."

Joel's expression softened, and he pulled you into a hesitant embrace. "Shh, babygirl, calm down. Running won't change anything."

The unexpected term of endearment caught you off guard, but the gentleness in his voice began to chip away at the walls of panic. You trembled against him, the tension in your body slowly dissipating.

"We can figure this out," he murmured, his hand rubbing soothing circles on your back. "You're not alone here. We'll find a way out. Told ya I wouldn’t hurt ya."

You took a shaky breath, the warmth of his embrace offering a strange comfort in the midst of chaos. The reality of your shared predicament began to sink in, and you reluctantly nodded. "I don't want this, Joel.."

He pulled back slightly, locking eyes with you. "I know. You gotta smarten up if you want to survive. No more being stubborn."

You wipe your tears from your cheeks, sniffling as you nod at him. “Okay.” 

“If we want to get out of this together. There are some rules ya gotta follow.” Joel began, surprising you with how fast the gentleness in his tone shifted into something more stern…

“This is not a fairy tale. It's about survival. Our survival."

You nodded, a bitter taste settling in your mouth. The harsh truth of your situation echoed in Joel's words.

"First rule," he continued, his eyes piercing through the darkness. "We stick together. There's safety in numbers, and in this world, trust is a luxury we can't afford. You stay close, and you follow my lead."

You swallowed hard, the gravity of the arrangement sinking in. "Fine," you mumbled, my defiance momentarily subdued.

"Second rule," Joel continued, unfazed. "We present a united front. Whether you like it or not, we're bound by this arrangement. Any sign of discord, and it puts both of us at risk. We can't afford internal conflicts."

You bristled at the demand,  frustration bubbling to the surface. "I didn't sign up for this, Joel. I won't be some indentured servant."

He narrowed his eyes, his patience wearing thin. "You're not the only one dealing with shit. I won’t touch you, I won’t make you any kind of servant. You follow my rules, and you don’t fuck with our chance at getting out. Understand me?"

Reluctantly, you nodded, conceding to the harsh reality that enveloped you.

“I said, do you understand me?” he repeats, expecting an answer from you. 

“I understand,” you whispered to him, lips curving down as you felt tears swell in your eyes.

You met his gaze, defiance flickering. "I won't play house just to appease the crowd."

He sighed, the weariness in his eyes suggesting a history of battles fought and lost. "You don't have to like it, but you have to do it. It's the only way we make it out of this mess alive."

As Joel's rules echoed in the silence that followed, you couldn't shake the feeling that your autonomy had been sacrificed on the altar of survival.

taglist - @joeldjarin @love-affair-with-fandoms @punkshort @movievillainess721 @fragilefable

[justanothersterekficgirl]

Like Heaven Catching Lighting by weathervaanes

Explicit | 41k | 1/1

Prince Stiles of Cor has always known, somewhere in the back of his mind, that he was never truly going to marry for love. Fighting it has only made it worse. Now, presented with a choice between two children of the Hale family of Ignis, Derek and Cora, he must make the decision to determine who will rule by his side. If only it were that simple.

-0-

“Tell me,” he says, taking a drink. “If your sister does accept me as her husband, would you be pleased for her fortune or yours?”

Derek sets down the pitcher and moves further into the room, removing his vest and setting it over a chair. “I don’t believe that’s a fair question. If she finds happiness in your kingdom, by your side, of course I’ll be pleased for her.”

“And relieved, I imagine.”

Derek turns, arms crossed over his chest. “Would you be?”

[writingwhimsey]

Married to The Enemy- Shingen Ch. 32

Chapter 32

Shingen lay on his back on a table that moved back into what seemed like a very small cylindrical space. Somehow the doctors and nurses were able to speak to him through some sort of device in the machine.

They gave him instructions, mostly about needing him to hold his breath and be perfectly still. When the machine was going, it made a loud noise. Of course they had also placed something over his ears and were playing music through these devices…music the likes of which Shingen had never even imagined.

While lying in the machine, Shingen couldn’t help but to let his mind wander as he marveled over this technology and this world. They said that these tests would allow them to see inside of my body without having to cut me open. I had no idea this was even possible! This made him wonder, if they found something that DIDN’T belong inside his body…how would they be getting it out?

It’s amazing that things have changed this much. That these things are even possible. He thought. And to think Ava and Sasuke gave up all of this to stay in a much harsher world. One where these advances are centuries away.

Shingen couldn’t help but to think how special his wife was. She had explained to him that she hadn’t intentionally traveled to his time, but that she had grown to love the time and the people and chosen to stay. And now she was going to go back to live the rest of her life at his side.

She truly is an angel. He thought.

“Alright, Mr. Takahashi, we are done with this test. We’ll get you out of there and get these headphones off.” One of the nurses said through the communication device on his ears.

A few moments later and Shingen was out of the tube and they were taking the headphones as they had called them. “Thank you.” Shingen told them. “Alright, that’s the last of you imagining tests. Dr. Sota wants us to run a few more tests and then we’ll be taking you back to your room.”

“Alright.” Shingen replied. He was getting back into the bed they had him in and they were wheeling him to the next testing area.

Some of the tests weren’t all that great and involved lots of poking and prodding. But if they really could find out what was wrong with him and cure it…anything that would allow him to stay with Ava and have the life he had always dreamed of.

Ava…

I stepped out off the bus I had taken to another area of the city, a slower and more residential area. The buildings in this area were a mixture of apartments and family houses. I walked down the familiar sidewalk until I came to the house I would know no matter what.

“Well, the nameplate is still there.” I muttered as I read the name, Shiba. 

I walked up to the door and took a deep breath as I lifted my hand and knocked. “Coming!” Called the familiar aged voice. A few moments later, the door was sliding open and the familiar wrinkled face was looking back at me. 

Slightly dulled blue eyes looked at me from under beautiful white hair. A smile deepened the wrinkles on her face. “Ava!” She exclaimed before pulling me into a tight hug.

I smiled as I returned her embrace. The familiar scent of cherry blossoms and herbal tea tickled my nose as I breathed in. “Oba-san.” I said, as tears stung my eyes.

Oba-san pulled back after a moment to look at me, lifting a hand to cup my cheek. “My little fashion designer, you have been on an adventure. I can tell.” She said, smiling warmly at me. “Come, come in and let us talk.”

I nodded and followed her inside, taking off my shoes before entering. We entered her kitchen which smelled of fresh baked goods and tea.

“Let me get you a little snack and some tea and we’ll sit down catch up.”

I watched as Oba-san prepared the tea cakes she always made and the tea. She set them on a tray and then carried them over to the table and we both sat down. “You don’t seem like you have been worried.” I commented as I picked up my cup of tea to take a sip.

Oba-san smiled at me. “I know you won’t believe it…but I just…I had this feeling deep in my heart that you were alright.” She told me. “I could feel that you had found a place you felt you belonged.”

I set my teacup down and picked up the teacake to take a bite. I thought carefully as I chewed. That was a strikingly similar thought as to what she had about my mother when she disappeared. 

“Was my intuition correct?”

I nodded. “Yes…I mean I was pretty scared when I first got there, but eventually I found… that I loved my new life and the people in it and I wanted to stay.” I explained.

Oba-san smiled. “So, where is this new life?” She asked me. “And I take it you will be returning there.” This last part wasn’t a question, but I nodded in answer anyway.

“It’s…it’s kind of hard to believe.” I began.

Oba-san smiled. “Try me.”

I laughed a moment. My grandmother…she had always been a bit of an odd one. She marched to the beat of her own drum for sure. But that’s one of the many things I loved about her. “It’s not… not really a where, but a when.” I told her. “You see, I ended up traveling through time and in the Sengoku era.”

I went on to detail what had happened during my initial stay in the Sengoku. How I had saved Nobunaga’s life and earned his favor. How the Oda forces had become like family to me.

“That is amazing.” Oba-san said. “What made you decide to come back? Or was that an accident?”

I shook my head. “No, it was intentional…though we’ll be going back hopefully before too long.”

“We?” Oba-san asked. She was always sharp as a tack.

I nodded. “Yes…so after accepting my role as a princess of the Oda clan…I kinda agreed to an arranged marriage to secure an alliance.”

“So…you’re married?”

I nodded. “Yes and before you ask, my husband is a wonderful man. I hit the jackpot as far as arranged marriages.” I explained. “And well…Oba-san my husband is sick. Very sick. None of the medicine of the Sengoku can cure him, but I think we have the technology here…”

“So, you brought your husband here.” Oba-san stated.

I nodded anyway. “Yes. My friend, Sasuke, that I told you about.”

“The modern day astrophysics student turned Sengiku Era ninja?”

I nodded. “Yes. He continued to study the wormholes and was able to calculate when we’d be able to come back and I got Shingen to agree to come. He’s actually in Kyoto University Hospital now undergoing tests.”

“I see…they tell you you couldn’t be with him during the tests?”

“Yes. So they told me I might as well do something else. Shingen was the one who told me if there was anyone I wanted to see, I should come.”

“Well, I am glad for that, and that you came to see me.” Oba-san replied. “I had a feeling that I would see you again soon.”

“You always trust in your gut.”

Oba-san shook her head. “No. It is my heart.” She said. “I know you don’t believe it when I say this about your mother, but I really do have the feeling that she is alive and well somewhere. Just as I knew you were. I could feel that you were happy where you were.”

It was hard to believe what she was saying…but I could tell she truly meant what she said. And in my case…she had been right. “I…I don’t know what to say about that.”

Oba-san smiled. “You don’t have to say anything.” She said. “How about instead of worrying about all of that, you tell me about this husband of yours, huh? You said you hit the jackpot?”

I giggled. She always had a way of steering the conversation in a direction I was more comfortable with. It didn’t matter to her what I or anyone else thought of her. She knew what she knew and she was who she was. The rest was all confetti.

“I really did, Oba-san. Shingen…he’s just so very amazing.” I explained. “He’s brilliant, kind, caring. He’s never shied away from flirting with me from the beginning. He makes me smile and laugh. He’s affectionate, unabashedly so. Strong and suave…not to mention drop dead sexy.”

“Oh? Tell me more.” Oba-san prodded.

“He’s so tall and has muscles for days. Just…one giant hunk of a man…”

“How is he in bed?” Oba-san asked.

I flushed slightly. “Oba-san…”

“What? You tell me you’re married to a giant hunk of a man and have THAT look on your face and I’m not supposed to ask?”

I laughed. “Well…if you must know, he’s amazing.” I answered. “Easily the best I’ve ever had.”

“Oh?”

I nodded. Though I could be a bit shy, my mother and grandmother had always encouraged me to be open with them. We really could talk as if we were girlfriends and not just family. “Yes. He… he’s so attentive. He takes his time making sure I am enjoying my time…and he had these very large hands that he knows what to do with…and he’s so big that he completely envelops me and I feel so vulnerable yet so safe at the same time…”

“That sounds like a keeper.” Oba-san said. “Will I get to meet him before you go back?”

“I would like to have you meet him.” I replied. “I am sure we will have some time while we are here once he’s out of the hospital.”

Oba-san and I were continuing to chat and catch up, drinking our tea, when there was another knock on her door. “Oh, the time, I bet that’s my delivery.” She said.

The door slid open a bit. “I’m here with your delivery.” Called a male voice.

“Oh, come in, Touji. I’m just in the kitchen!” Oba-san called.

A few moments later a man about my age was coming in, carrying a few bags of groceries. He had blond hair and brown eyes. A smile came to his face as he looked at me. “Ava? Is that you?”

It was then that it hit me…my childhood friend Touji. “Touji? You’re still making the deliveries for your family store?” I asked.

“Well, yes, but now I am the owner.” He replied. “Well, me and my sister. I have her oldest son helping me with the deliveries. I just make sure to still handle the deliveries for my favorite customers.” He was then winking at Oba-san.

She laughed. “Oh, such a charmer you.” She said. “You can just sit those down on the counter there and I’ll get them put away.”

“No you won’t.” I said. “I can handle that for you.” I was then getting up to go and put the groceries away.

“Here, let me help with that Ava.” Touji said.

“Don’t you have other deliveries to make?” I asked.

“No. As the owner I only handle the deliveries I want to now.” Touji answered with a grin.

“Plus he usually stays for dinner.” Oba-san added. “Will you be staying for dinner, Ava?”

I shook my head. “No. I’ll help get these put away and then I’ll need to go.” I answered. “Hopefully they’ll have all the results.”

Oba-san nodded. “Of course.”

Touji helped me put away the groceries, while Oba-san went to take care of some other things. “So, Ava, will you be back again to visit your grandmother?”

“Probably.” I answered. “I’m really glad you’ve been helping Oba-san out while I’ve been gone.”

“She has always been good to me.” Touji replied. “Plus she is the grandmother of one of my favorite people. There’s always the chance I’d catch you on a visit.”

“It’s always good to see one of my best friends.” I replied, giving him a smile.

An awkward smile came to his face. “RIght…so maybe if you’re gonna be around for a bit, we could meet up sometime to catch up?” He suggested.

“Uh, sure maybe.” I replied with a shrug. I was then taking note of the time. “Well, I had better be getting on my way. I don’t want to be late. We’ll talk about that meet up another time, okay?”

Touji nodded. “Yeah, sure. See ya later Ava.”

I gave him a smile and a wave. “Later.” I went to find Oba-san and give her a hug before leaving and taking the bus back to the hospital. I was eager to see Shingen and hopefully we would get the results of his tests back as well. Hopefully, they would know what was wrong and we could finally discuss how to cure him.

Taglist: @limonzu @zulablaise @oda-princess @kisara-16 @tele86 @lovely-bubb1es @lucyw260 @selenacosmic

[ssamaraxx]

Bellatrix and her Master - The Tormented (on Wattpad) https://www.wattpad.com/1484543984-bellatrix-and-her-master-the-tormented?utm_source=web&utm_medium=tumblr&utm_content=share_reading&wp_uname=SsamaraXX At 14, Bellatrix becomes engaged to the Lestrange heir, a union that soon leads her to a chilling encounter with the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort, whose name echoes through the pure-blood elite. Drawn to his power and the promise of liberation from societal constraints, Bellatrix embarks on a tumultuous 23-year journey as his devoted disciple. As she dives deeper into Voldemort's world, Bellatrix battles her loyalty to him against her obligations to Rodolphus, resisting the traditional roles of wife and mother. Her involvement with the dark arts marks a turning point, deepening her attachment to the Dark Lord, but straining her relationships with her sisters, Narcissa and Andromeda. Amidst ordeals that challenge her loyalty and sanity, Bellatrix's journey reveals the complexities of love, and the seductive pull of darkness. OR What exactly turned Bellatrix Black into such a twisted and crazy witch?

[hlficlibrary]

hi, i saw someone asking for arranged marriage fics where Larry has to marry someone else and i think this one i read recently will fit too:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/18865144/chapters/44776135

they try to marry harry for business instead of letting him to find his soulmate (Louis)

Hi! Anon looking for arranged marriage fics...if you're looking for another here you go!

His and Mine by glitteredcurls

Harry is adopted by a wealthy family, soon to be cleared of his connection to his soulmate without discussion on his twentieth birthday-- a gruesome rite of passage. For the past eight years, Harry has been staring at one name: Louis. But what happens now that his heart starts fluttering for a stranger, helping him remain strong at his weakest points? Harry feels he should be cautious; what kind of person goes by the name Tomlinson anyway…

OR Harry legally isn't supposed to meet his soulmate-- he's rendered physically unable to recognize him even if he did-- but yet, of course, he does.

[sigynoffidelity]

Arranged MarriageAU Jotün!LokixSigyn

Maybe this was the worst day in her life. At least it felt like it while one maid fixed her hair, while the other one was taking care of her make up. Only hours ago her parents told her that she was going to meet her future husband, king of Jotunheim, Loki. Ruler of the most freezing realm of all... and she felt like it- frozen. It was hard to feel or think anything at all.

Maybe she was in shock. She knew her parents had waited to send her away, marry her off and never see her again, get rid of her and... it was a perfect fit. They had told her to pay the most effort to be to his liking. Could she? Even if she wanted to... being attractive to a giant? She was a petite Vanir, decends of the high elves... he a son of a frost giant. She started again to fidget with the soft blue fabric of her dress, while her maid finished her make up and put on some silver earrings and fitting jewelry on her hair, she hated silver, maybe they thought it was a nice hommage to ice. She rolled her eyes.

She felt like an object, traded for a good deal. Just a spawn in a bigger game. The marriage was just an insurance of the alliance against asgard.

They had told her to wait until they call her, but she sneaked out of her room, since her curiosity and nervousness almost killed her, so she made her way to the gallery, from where she had a pretty good view into the throne room, hoping she could maybe throw a glance on her future husband or... it was a better idea to run away at the last minute.

@loki-child-of-frigga

[twilightpackfanatfics]

Lose Yourself

The 10th entry for the Twilight Pack Fanatfics Short Story Challenge June/July 2024 is now Live.

Title: Lose Yourself

Characters: Bella. Jasper. Paul.

Prompt: Enemies To Lovers

Rating: Mature

Summary: Bella has been promised to Edward since her childhood. After a conversation with her best friend, Jasper, she finds herself kidnapped beside him. Can they escape? Why does she find her captor so damn sexy? Link: https://archiveofourown.org/collections/TwilightPackFanatfics060724/works/57349165

[aryasamajpandit]

Arya Samaj Pandith in Hyderabad

𝗪𝗲𝗯𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗲:https://www.aryasamajpandith.in/arya-samaj-pandith-in-hyderabad/ +91 - 809916634 +91 - 9290942972 Welcome to Acharya Vedalok Pandith. Arya Samaj Mariage is of The Legal Way To Do Less Expensive 𝙒𝙚 𝙒𝙚𝙙𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙎𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙇𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚: ✱ Love Marriages ✱ Intercaste Marriages ✱ Arranged Marriages ✱ Court #safilguda ✱ Inter Religion Marriage Certificate Related Services.

[s-4pphics]

errrr……. hey…

uhhh this is awkward hey what do we do when we’re grieving? write ab arranged marriages slayyyyyy errrr yeah here’s that see yall next month or year or whatever

—

“I want a divorce.”

Your tone doesn’t waver nor break, voice engulfed in plainness.

It was one of the issues Ellie’s had since your marriage: an act to combine assets initiated by your parents. They never intended to have a daughter — you told Ellie the night of your honeymoon — but when your mother laid eyes on you, warming you with the skin of her chest for the first time, she painted your entire future in her mind. An object. The finest to be drenched and drowned in riches and diamonds, only living under multi-million dollar homes owned by your husband’s family name. Just as long as you played your role. A silent, unopinionated, docile baby-making machine.

Your parents nearly had a heart attack when they found one of your diaries filled with pictures of naked women, either hand drawn or torn from pages of your father’s filthy magazines. Your mother told you she should’ve aborted you, just when you thought you’d finally have a normal birthday party. The heavy breaths of your sobs extinguished the flame above your 18th candle.

But you’re 22 now; fabulously wealthy, married and…

Staring at your wife… plainly, even though the flames in your eyes rages war. The dining table is a battleground and a red dot punctures right through Ellie’s forehead. She’s not sure what you are.

Your marriage was not ideal. Not only was it forced and filled with shame, but Ellie grew resentful rather quickly. Towards the man that brought her into such a shrouded lifestyle, towards the heavens above for cursing her with life, but when she couldn’t attack, she brought it to your bedroom. You suffered, she’ll admit. It only took two weeks into your marriage for her to find an escape through other unassuming women while you laid in your shared bed with a tear-soaked pillow. You never knew when she’d come home, but when she did, she never failed to berate you. It carried on for months, the blame; blaming you for everything that’s happened to her thus far, despite her knowing that you’re a victim just as much as she is. You were her only emotional outlet. Or punching bag.

But despite every torment she threw your way, you never failed to smile at her the next morning with her coffee in your hands.

You always remained silent. Until now.

The delicious meal you prepared has soured on her tongue. All she can do is stare at you in disbelief.

She takes in the polite fold of your hands, 16 carat, rose gold, wedding band still on your ring finger. Her eyes rush over the plumpness of your lips, the delicate curve of your nose, the rise and fall of your chest… the way your breasts expand in your flowery dress with each breath.

Ellie swallows, nearly choking at the sudden dryness in her throat.

“… What?”

“I want a divorce.”

Your tone raises. Not aggressively; that wouldn’t fit you. You wanted her to hear you.

She huffs despite the burning tips of her ears. “I’m sure.” She mocks with a smirk.

Your eyes squint. “I’m not joking.”

“You know who else wasn’t?” She leans across the table, pinning you with her gaze, “Our parents. They don’t give a fuck about what we do and don’t want. We’re lucky they put us together.”

“I…”

Ellie flinches when your voice cracks to a whisper. Never once has the shell you mask yourself in cracked. Not once. Not in front of Ellie, your parents, her family, even strangers. You’ve never failed to put on a dazzling smile for the spectators.

“I want to be in love.” Tears free fall from your eyes and your chin trembles, “There’s no… I don’t have anyone. I never did.”

“I thought we could… at least be friends. I know you didn’t want this, I know — b-but… I can’t keep doing this. I feel like I’m dying—“

Ellie knows you’re talking about her, and guilt swallows her whole. It’s a shame, really; you’re gorgeous when you cry. Why’s her heart pounding this madly?

“I want someone to treat me like I-I’m alive, no one sees me, I d — don’t feel real —“

Ellie stands when your often assembled appearance begins to crumble. She’s never seen you so shattered, gasping for air like it’s limited. She recognizes this. You’re breaking, just like she did the night before she signed her life over to your family.

“Hey—“

Your seat goes flying back when your heeled feet plant on the marble floor, manicured nails clutching at the skin of your chest raw. She rushes over when your sobs crack, desperately trying to get air in your lungs with pleading and fearful eyes.

“Hey, hey, look at me, c��mon—“

Your fists pound against her chest in between wails, makeup streaking down your face, clumping your fluttery lashes. She calls out to you with hands on your soaked cheeks, tells you to count, to spell your name for her, but you can’t hear. You can’t function. Have you ever been this close?

Ellie curses before her hand flies into the jug filled with sphered ice cubes, shoving them into the side of your neck. They melt instantly from the heat of your skin, but you gasp and flinch from the cold.

“Yeah, feel that? Feels nice? Focus on that.”

Her hand delves into the jug until your jerky breaths calm into spluttered exhales. She’s sure she’s frost bitten.

You’re quiet again. Docile again. Anxious. Embarrassed. Heartbroken. And so fucking angry. Ellie’s getting whiplash looking into your eyes. They’re speckled with gold and… something foreign. She can’t place it. The hand on your cheek swiftly falls to her side.

“You—“ she clears her throat when you wobble, vibrating form pushing up against her, nose almost brushing hers, “You alright?”

But you say nothing, eyes distant. You simply step out of your heels with tightly clenched fists and jostled hair before walking towards the staircase.

“I’m very tired.” You say plainly over your shoulder before trekking up the steps. She watches cautiously until a door slams shut. She, after minutes of gawking at the staircase, takes in the scenery around her. Everything is where it should be… minus your plate is cold and untouched. But your wine glass is empty. She's not sure where the bottle is. Since when do you drink?

Her mind is unsettled and there’s a stutter in her chest. Your home is silent. A heaviness that weighs her down.

She assumed that the uncomfortable twist in her gut was from her own wrongdoings since your marriage.

Not at all.

Ellie’s concerned. There’s something off about you.

More off than usual.

[underthemooncover]

Crimson Vendetta

She thought it would be him. Brought together by destiny, she thought it would be a fairytale. But when a hidden vendetta that grows deeper comes to light, will she be able to take it? Or will she be broken by lying souls and shattered fantasies?

Crimson Vendetta (on Wattpad) https://www.wattpad.com/story/367329042-crimson-vendetta?utm_source=web&utm_medium=tumblr&utm_content=share_myworks&wp_uname=underthe_mooncover

[justanothersterekficgirl]

The Gentleman And The Fox by bleep0bleep, Inkforwords

Explicit | 15k | 1/1

Derek doesn't expect much from his arranged marriage. When his inattentive husband, Lord Stiles Stilinski, tells him he's free to look for a lover, he doesn't know where to start, until a dashing bandit named the Red Fox catches his eye. ~ The Fox winks again. “Have a good night, Derek,” he purrs in a sultry tone, and then climbs back on the horse and disappears into the night. Derek walks up the path towards the manor in a daze, and it isn’t until he’s inside when he realizes he never told the Fox his name or where he lived.

[iwritefiction]

***The Lycan King’s Heir - Chapter 8 (on Wattpad) OUT NOW!!!***

Unleash Your Inner Alpha

Ready to explore the mysterious world of The Lycan King's Heir? Read the latest chapters for free on Wattpad and get ready to unleash your inner alpha! Discover what awaits in this thrilling story and follow along with new chapters as they come out.  (This title is only available for free on Wattpad until completion.)

Copyright All Rights Reserved

Chapter 1

**Gracie POV**

"You look amazing Gracie!" My best friend Petra squealed, clasping her hands to her chest excitedly. "Remind me you have that dress next time I ask to borrow something."

I assessed my reflection in the mirror as Petra settled back onto the velvet sage-colored duvet on my large four-poster bed. She was right. The deep blue form-fitting satin dress fell about mid-thigh with slit that trailed up to just below my hip bone. The bodice clung to my waist and had a sweetheart neckline. Strappy black 4-inch heels adorned my feet. I chose to pair the look with a thick satin ribbon choker with a large tear drop black diamond and matching earrings. My long hair was left down to fall at my waist. The omega stylist teased and braided my hair for what seemed like hours, the results being a Northern look with white anemones, blue daisies, and baby's breath weaved into fishtail braids of various sizes throughout. Two evenly sized braids just above my ears were tied back with black satin ribbon. I wore little make up, showing off my clear skin and freckles. A quick brush of brown mascara helps my dark green eyes stand out, and some tinted gloss to plump my lips.

I look over at Petra who looked spectacular. True to her goth fashion, she had decided on a black oversized t-shirt dress that flowed to a stop just above her knee. Her long legs were sheathed in fishnet hose and clunky leather boots with small metal spikes swallowed her dainty feet. Her long black hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail, her bangs tickling her brows. Unlike me Petra had gone all out with her make up. Eyeliner and smokey eyeshadow rimmed her eyes, foundation a couple shades lighter than her already light skin tone smudged across her face, and some matte black lip stick.

"You look pretty sexy yourself," I say with a wink. "Are you ready to head out?" We were headed to a small bar in the city that I had asked my father to rent out for the night. This ensured that the facility would be ran and guarded by pack approved guests. Renting out a venue for a private event was especially helpful since it meant that underage pups 16 and up could attend and legally drink outside of pack borders.

Other than my father, stepmother, and Petra I really didn't have any close friends. Being the Alpha's daughter meant that my 21st birthday was THE event for our pack. To appease the public, I decided on the bar idea. People would come and go as they pleased, and it wasn't restricted to just the pack. Other packs could attend as well as vampires, witches, warlocks, and other "Mythics" the humans called us.

My father somehow lined up my favorite artist to play a short surprise set in the evening and arranged for an open bar. Despite the rental time beginning at four in the afternoon, Petra and I planned to my appearance around 9. Not that anyone would notice if I no showed. That's what the open bar was for.

All day we hung around the house watching our favorite rom-coms and getting ready for the party while gloom lingered thick in the air. Neither of us dared say anything, but what if after today things were different?

Turning 21 was a big turning point for a werewolf. It marked the beginning of official adulthood as we shifted into our wolf form for the first time. Our wolves are more of a feeling or mood until our first shift. When we shift and our fur color is revealed, we receive our rank. Black or white fur indicates an Alpha, dark grey or golden brown identifies Betas and Gammas, and omegas look like your average wolf. Alphas, Betas, and Gammas tend to be larger than omegas as well.

I'm older than Petra by four months. This means that not only will I be shifting first, but I will also be finding my mate this year, while Petra will have to wait until next year's Mate's Solstice since you have to be 21 at the time of the solstice to feel the mate pull, and that's only if your mate is in attendance as well. I sighed inwardly. I guess it really doesn't matter now that I'm to be mated to the King regardless.

Petra and I had done everything together since the first day we had met in kindergarten. From first sleep-over to first dance. In fifth grade we made a vow to save ourselves for our mates. Neither of us had even been kissed. I'd decided not to tell her. Keeping the secret from her manifested guilt that only grew as time passed. It was getting harder everyday as the future I'd try to ignore became my present all to quickly.

We walked through the Alpha's mansion, my home, and climbed into the limo that waited for us at the bottom of the stone entry steps. The driver helped us both in before walking around climbing into the driver's seat. As we travelled through the pack grounds, we made small talk guessing who we would see there and who we hoped we wouldn't. Once we crossed the border and started coasting down the highway the driver informed us that we would be arriving in about 15 minutes. I watched through the window as rural landscapes slowly faded from livestock and greenery to gradually taller and taller buildings and more and more lights.

A few minutes later the limo pulled up to the front of a small brick building that had been painted grey. The bouncer removed the velvet barrier to let us in.

"Happy Birthday Ms. Thewton." He said, dipping his head in greeting as we entered.

"Shh! Let's not make a big deal of things. Let's just all have a good night." I said waving my hand as if to brush his words away.

"Sorry miss!" I heard him call softly after me.

Petra elbowed us a path through the crowd and ordered us both shots. We were a few shots in when we decided to go to the small dance floor. We danced for several upbeat songs, and we even joined in a few line dances. Between songs we would refill our drinks and take more shots. Suddenly the room erupted in applause, and I registered the chords to my favorite song. I guess it was time for the surprise set. The tempo for this song is much slower than the songs we had been dancing to.

Couples around me moved closer together and began swaying in little circles around the dance floor. As I was turning to leave my ankle rolled and I lost my balance. Before I could hit the floor a strong arm wrapped around my waist and another hand grasped my hand. I was pulled up against a strong, sculpted chest. The smell of sandalwood and rain assaulted my nose and I gulped softly as my gaze wandered up a black button down before connecting with a pair of soft golden-brown eyes. The eyes widened in wonder before his arms wrapped around me again, this time holding me close against him. I started to push away, but as soon as he started to sway to the slow beat, I instantly felt my body relax.

The floor starts to spin, and I instantly realize there is no way I'm in any condition to shift tonight. Resolving to stay inside and to hopefully sneak off and shift another night this week, I signaled the bartender wading through the crowd and grab two shots. I hand one to my dance partner and we toast before downing the burning liquid and handing the test-tube shaped glasses back.

"Happy Birthday to me!" I shout up at him before blacking out.

Chapter 2

**Alpha Shaun POV**

I gazed at the woman next to me. Her hair reminded me of brush fire, the curly red strands setting the pillow case aflame as the locks tumbled across the sheets. I stroked her cheek softly, pulling back when she stirred, turning her face into my touch.

Sparks lingered on my fingers where our skin had made contact. This was the woman haunting my dreams. And now, she was mine.

I kissed her forehead softly before lightly brushing my thumb across her lips and getting up from the bed. I thought about the love we made the night before. From what I could recollect, the first time was awkward and drunken. Too late had I realized she was a virgin.

After both having slept some of the alcohol away, we had gone again, this time felt more natural. She had responded to my every touch, and her noises of pleasure had quickly sent my wolf spiraling out of control. I felt my eyes darken as he pushed his way forward.

I'd never felt him this out of control. I took her over and over again until we both fell asleep tangled together late into the night.

As the first light of the morning creeped through the window, I locate my clothes and get dressed quietly.

Glancing towards the sleeping goddess of my dreams I slipped off the thin gold chain I wore around my neck and removed the small, plain wedding band. It had been my mother's. My mother had passed away when I was 16. It seemed that one day she got sick and only got worse. Within months my mother was bedridden and frail, before the year was up, she was gone...

Seeing my own father suffer the anguish of losing a mate was unbearable. I buried myself into school to avoid having to be around him. I placed the band on the bedside table and walked out of the door.

In 2 months I'm supposed to be marrying Gracie Thewton if she doesn't find her mate at the Mate's Solstice. My wolf whined sadly at me as I walked down the hall, away from the unknown beauty. 'I feel it too.' I assure him.

They say if the bond is strong enough you can feel some muted effect if mates are in close proximity up to the time of the Solstice. Deep down my wolf and I knew this girl was our Chosen mate that the Moon Goddess, Selene, selected just for me.

I had decided long ago to never claim my Chosen mate. At 29, I had never attended a single one of the past seven of the Mate's Solstices I could have. There was no need. I would never experience what my father went through. Eventually, the grief had killed him.

Still, seeing the love my parents shared throughout my childhood, I respected the Chosen mate bond. It's said to be the most intimate relationship anyone can experience.

It wasn't fair to the girl that I had chosen this path and that we'd never share the bond the way the Goddess intended. I was hoping that by leaving the ring that she'd at least get to remember a small bit of the time we shared together.

================================================

**Gracie POV**

I woke up to the sun spilling across my face. I groaned as I sat up slowly. My head was pounding. I looked around the room as it slowly began to come into focus. The sleek white and grey features and dark black stained wood.

This was certainly not my room.

*bzzzzzzz bzzzzz bzzzzzz bzzzzz* I heard my phone going off somewhere across the room. The sheets slide off of me as I roll of the bed and stumble over to the sound.

The cold air hits my naked skin. I shiver, not only from the cold, but from the thought of why I was naked.

What happened last night? I remember the bar, I remember dancing. There was a man, I couldn't recall his face, but I remember he smelled delicious. Like sandalwood and rain.

After rifling through my handbag I found my phone. 56 missed calls. I am so dead.

I checked the call record. My nerves calmed instantly when I saw most of calls were from Petra, and 54 of the calls had been made last night. I guess that's what time I stepped out.

The other two calls had been from my father earlier this morning, and just now, Hudson, Petra's twin and my ex-boyfriend.

We hadn't spoken much more than curt greetings in public in months. Why is he calling me?

We ended things about a year prior. It hadn't gone well. We started unofficially dating when we were 13. We weren't allowed to date that young, but also, most werewolves really don't officially date before they find a mate.

Most wolves prefer to save themselves for their mates, however it wasn't uncommon not to wait to have sex. Hudson and I both wanted to wait, but we also enjoyed being with each other. We never did more than hold hands, and once he kissed my cheek three years ago after seeing how distraught I was when I agreed to marry King Shaun.

At first we stayed together anyway.

We'd promised long ago that we'd both attend our first Mate's Solstice and if neither of us found our Chosen mates we'd pick each other as our Destined mates. Except I'd robbed him of that.

My choice put a strain on our relationship. He started distancing himself from me. One night I had gone over to his house to speak to him. Petra had let me in not knowing what I would find. Knocking on the door to his bedroom and entering at the same time, I saw Hudson and a girl from that our school who was just a grade below us. She was straddling his lap, her hands were grasping his hair while his hands were roaming over her back and hips as they noisily made out at his desk. I just turned and walked out. We never had to officially end things because we were never official.

Clutching my phone to my chest I turned on my heel and stalked to the bathroom. I sat the phone down on the grey marble counter and turned the shower faucet to scalding hot. I didn't need to remember everything to understand what had happened last night, my aching pelvis and lower abdominal regions giving me a hint as to the events that transpired after I had blacked out.

I quickly showered using the travel sized soaps provided by the hotel. Once I dried off I called the front desk to bring me a toothbrush. I had also asked to settle the bill for check out, but I was told to stay as long as I needed, the room was paid for as long as I needed it.

Shocked, I thanked her and said she could cancel the account further and call maid service as I would be leaving shortly. I went to hang up the receiver and noticed a golden band on the table next to the phone. Carefully I picked it up and put it on my ring finger on my right hand.

It fit perfectly. So I kept it on. I didn't see a note, but somehow I felt like the ring had been left for me.

After brushing my teeth and swapping the plushy hotel robe for my dress, I grabbed my heels by their straps and swung the satchel strap of my handbag over my shoulder as I walked barefoot out of the hotel room.

I pulled out my phone to call Petra. I needed to let her know I was okay. She had texted me earlier in the morning that she had covered for me but that I needed to get home as soon as possible.

Copyright All Rights Reserved

FOLLOW THE LINK to read the accompanying parts and stay up to date with upcoming chapters!!!

Thanks for reading!! --A.J. King <3 

[ssamaraxx]

Bellatrix and her Master - The Wife (on Wattpad) https://www.wattpad.com/1496936620-bellatrix-and-her-master-the-wife?utm_source=web&utm_medium=tumblr&utm_content=share_reading&wp_uname=SsamaraXX At 14, Bellatrix becomes engaged to the Lestrange heir, a union that soon leads her to a chilling encounter with the dark wizard, Lord Voldemort, whose name echoes through the pure-blood elite. Drawn to his power and the promise of liberation from societal constraints, Bellatrix embarks on a tumultuous 23-year journey as his devoted disciple. As she dives deeper into Voldemort's world, Bellatrix battles her loyalty to him against her obligations to Rodolphus, resisting the traditional roles of wife and mother. Her involvement with the dark arts marks a turning point, deepening her attachment to the Dark Lord, but straining her relationships with her sisters, Narcissa and Andromeda. Amidst ordeals that challenge her loyalty and sanity, Bellatrix's journey reveals the complexities of love, and the seductive pull of darkness. OR What exactly turned Bellatrix Black into such a twisted and crazy witch?

[hlficlibrary]

hello,

aranged marriage but where they are forced to marry other people not each other?

thank youuu 💕

Hi anon! You're very welcome! Here are some fics that fit what you're looking for!

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