#as long as it can't be delayed we'll be fine :)

[stuckyslut8]

I'm so very tamed now .part 2

Part 1. Masterlist.

A/N : don't know what took me so long to make a part 2 ( just life I guess)but her you go lovelies, sorry for the delay.

Pairing: mafia stucky x spy reader.(poly)

Summary: Bucky finally gets the information our of you, but you both manage piss steve off even more, so you have to deal with the consequences .

Warnning :poly stucky dom steve, bratty Bucky, sub reader , self proclaimed brat tamer Bucky,edging, spanking, angy steve 😡, a few tears. No beta reader. 18+ under the cut. Minors dni.

Bucky has you all spread out on his bed, hands cuffed to the bed, completely naked , completely at his mercy.

"are you gonna do something barnes or are you just gonna stare at me all day " you ask him mockingly.

"oh you'll see sweets." He says with a wicked grin, as he pulls out your favourite vibrator and before he pushes it into you , turning it up to the highest setting.

"ughh Bucky." You moan not being able to control your pleasure.

"see pretty girl, I don't have much time , steve is already annoyed so you better tell me everything." He asks as he tries not to palm himself at the sight of your but he couldn't resist he takee out his already hard cock and starts jerking off in front of you, adding to your pleasure.

"or -ughh - or what barnes?" You manage to say in between moans.

"or I'm gonna keep making ya cum until you can't." Your eyes widen at that.

"you see last time I edged ya ,it didn't turn out well so now I'm gonna make try something different." You came instantly as he said that.

"see that's my good girlz we'll see how long you can keep going before giving in." He said as hmm.

Five orgasms later , you still wouldn't budge.

"see I'm almost getting bored ,just spit it out already, the vibrator's battery is gonna die"

"that's all you got?" You challenged him

"fine , I'll do this my way." Bucky said as he pulled the vibrator away from you, looking at your wet pussy.

"see my poor pussy can't take it , she's exhausted.." he cooed as he collected some of your cum with his fingers and sucked them.

"don't tell me what I can take barnes."

"if you insist sweets." Bucky suddenly fills you up with his cock and starts pounding into you, lifting your legs and throwing them over his shoulders. You both moan, and grunt.

"now you better tell me sweets , who do you work for?" He asks as he fucks you into oblivion.

"ughh Bucky ... I'm gonna ." You said as you reached your high.

"me too angel, me too, now why don't you tell me ,so we can both come together ." You were about to give in Bucky knew, you just needed a little push.

"you know steve is gonna be very mad at me, if I don't get the information Outta you after all this trouble...so please tell me sweets,I swear I'll stay right by you whatever it is."

"fine fine...i ughh work for stark, stark sent me " you finally spit out the truth.

Just then steve came barging in the door, " steve i found the information, she works for..." Bucky was about to say .

"stark i know" steve finished his sentence" i just met him. " Not impressed by Bucky.

"well I just got the information Outta her, see i told you my tactics never fail." Steve rolled his eyes at Bucky's answers, although he was certainly aroused by the scene in front of him,you begging Bucky to let you cum.

"well of course I'll let you cum sweets, daddy is having a conversation right now wait a minute" the brunette man told you.

"stop being such a whore buck" steve yelled at him.

"you know you damn well love it steve, infact i know you're enjoying our doll begging to cum right now" while you were still whimpering begging Bucky to cum.

Steve was definitely aroused by the sight in front of him but tried to keep his composure.

"shut up Bucky, she's being a brat and you're only defending her." Steve said.

"she is brat and I'm not defending her , I'm punishing her can't you see?" Bucky asks

"damn well you are, look at her not one ounce of regret in her face,you're not making her relaise anything,you're just giving in to her bratiness."

"daddy please lemme cum" you beg him with doe eyes, Bucky is still in you , you try to fuck yourself on him, lifting your hips. "Just a minute sweets" Bucky says.

"no get off of her" steve says angrily.

"what the hell steve" but steve pushes Bucky aside before he could finish his sentence.

"I'm gonna show her what real punishment is and make her realise what she has really done to us, how much she's hurt us, so stop coddling her and move buck" steve says as he takes off his clothes.

"stevie.." i whimper as Bucky's thick cock is removed from your heat.

"shh shut up you brat ,you only call me sir from now, understood?" Steve said giving a hard spank to your dripping pussy making me moan.

"yes sir" steve flips you onto your stomach, you were waiting nervously as to what he was gonna do.

"now I'm gonna spank you properly you brat and you're gonna take it like a good slut and thank me alright " he says

"yes sir." All while Bucky watched the scene unfold in front of him, he knew you were in big trouble now but he enjoyed it at the same time.

"good girl do what daddy steve says " Bucky said .

Steve gave his first spank it was real, unlike the playful ones Bucky gave you, it stung almost leaving an impression.

"thank you sir." I say. *He spanks again.

"thank you sir"

*spank

*th thank you sir."

After 10 spanks , Steve stops leaving your bottom so red and your pussy dripping.

"you did so good doll taking your punishment like a good girl" Bucky said patting your head.

"thanks daddy" you manage to whimper.

"your punishment is not over yet brat." Steve says with a stern look.

"but.."

"no buts get on your knees .."

You do as he says, steve roughly grabs your hips and thrusts his hard cock in you, making you moan. "Ahh daddy.." steve pulled out immediately,and spanked you again." What do I tell you to calle me you brat.."

"sir?"

"yes and you'll only call me sir from now, no stevie, no daddy understood?" He said slapping my ass again.

"yes sir"

Bucky thought he was being a little too harsh on you. "Oh come on steve she just called you daddy she -" Bucky started to reason .

"you shut up punk or youre gonna be punished next." Steve said and went to sinking his cock back into your dripping cunt in one swift motion.

"ohh yess sir please-" you moaned

"please what you little slut?" Steve asked pounding into you ,making the bed shake, Bucky was happily jerking off to it at this point, knowing trying to defend you was pointless and that would only get you into more trouble, plus he knew steve would never hurt you,no matter how mad he was , he was only doing this because he was deeply hurt by your betrayal.

"please sir, fuck me, please don't stop." You pleaded .

"and why would I listen to you?" The blonde said.

"because...because..."

"because what ?" He said slamming his hips into you.

"because I love you and ...Bucky i uh-" tears we're streaming down your face at this point, both from the pleasure and the guilt of the whole situation,you knew you hurt steve and pushed him to this point.

Steve laughed mockingly. "Really you love- you love us? Don't lie you little slut" steve was about to cum but he contained himself not giving you the satisfaction.

"I'm not lying...i really, really love you both. I'm sorry about everything." A million things were going on Steve's mind.

Just then Steve's phone rang, he picked it up from the night stand while still in you.

"hmm alright I'll be there-" he spoke into the phone. He pulled out of you, leaving you whimpering.

"what happened baby?" Bucky asked , knowing something was wrong.

"nothing it's uh- take her to the safehouse right now, I'll go take care of some things."

Bucky knew better than to argue with steve at times like these so he only nodded.

Steve left the room, Bucky gently cleaned you up, while you were still getting out of the haze. "Pack your things baby." He said as he pressed a kiss to your forehead.

"what's going on?" You finally decide to ask

"stevie's orders ,don't ask any questions for a while." He said .

And you complied, going on to pack some of your stuff ,but you had a pretty good idea of what's going on, you took your pistol from the hidden cabinet in your bathroom just in case .

[cloudy-em]

shy reader and lip are my favorite. but i was thinking maybe she’s like that because of family? they’re mean to her so it’s better for her to keep to herself and she doesn’t tell lip anything until he sees it for himself

thank you for the request, anon! I'm thinking northside!reader for this one

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We're walking to my house, the thin layer of snow crunching beneath our feet. Although I'm thankful that my private school allows long pants in the winter time, and that we're provided with a thick knit sweater as a part of our uniform options, I'm still freezing. I don't know how Lip does it. He seems just fine with his jeans and layered flannel.

"You cold?" He breaks the comfortable silence, and I nod, knowing that if I speak, my teeth will clatter together. He pulls me into him, his arm wrapping around my shoulder. It's nice, just the two of us and the snow. It's quiet and peaceful.

We reach my front door and I unlock it, inviting Lip inside. He takes his shoes off and follows me into my bedroom, where he sits on my bed. It's not our usual routine. Normally I prefer going to his house, but my family was going to be home early because of some special news coming from Harvard University for my sister. Lip decided yesterday he would spend time with me until he had to sneak out of my window so I'd be on time for dinner.

I sigh, joining Lip on my bed, Wuthering Heights in hand.

"Read to me?" I mumble. He's prepared for the question, and no matter how many times he smiles and says yes, I'm still a little embarrassed. It's easier when he reads to me because I can hear his voice reading the lines in my head. He smiles like he usually does, leaning back and taking the book from me. I lean against him, listening as he reads.

"Y/N!" I hear my mom call from downstairs. I look at Lip apologetically, telling him I'll be right back. I trudge down the stairs, trying to delay whatever my mom has to say. I walk into the kitchen, joining her and my siblings. Oh joy.

"Why didn't you put the dishes away?" She asks, annoyed at my presence. I can feel myself fold in slightly, ready for whatever the family wants to pile on me.

"I- I'm sorry, mom, it's just that the oceanography club ran late-" she cuts me off, not needing to hear my explanation.

"I don't care what happened, Y/N. You have these things to take care of because the rest of us are doing more important things. Your father and I both work full time jobs all day. Your brother is a football captain, and your sister is president of the debate team. They have well-fulfilled, promising lives in front of them. What do you have? A weird obsession with fish."

"I concur," my sister chimes in. "Are you like, attracted to them?" My brother laughs, joining in on the game. "Probably, I mean it's not like she's pretty enough to date a human!"

They continue to take turns, finding whatever flaws they can to comment on. I shrink into myself, waiting for them to get distracted by their own arrogance and start talking about themselves.

This moment comes like it usually does, but never fast enough. I walk away as quietly as possible, and return to my room. Lip looks at me, his eyes searching mine. He still has Wuthering Heights open, his thumb and index finger holding the spine open to the page we left off on. He places the book face down beside him on the bed, silently opening his arms in a welcoming gesture. Without hesitation, I take my spot in his arms as he pulls me into his chest, stroking my hair softly. I try to bite back my tears, but a few escape, and suddenly he has tear stains on his shirt.

"I'm so sorry, baby," he whispers to me, swaying slightly. "I didn't know. We'll figure something out, 'kay? No reason you can't come stay with me. The kids love you, and Fiona'll come around when we tell her what's goin' on. You and me, right?"

I smile slightly, nodding against him. "Right."

[harrysmimi]

After Show

Synopsis: Harry and YN finds some alone time after one of his shows to catch up

CW: Smut

Series Masterlist | More of my work

One thing YN was so grateful for were the opportunities she gets to travel now more freely.

It gave her a weird ich, even to think about going to a different country alone. Especially when her family doesn't really seem to care about her existence. She feared for her safety because apparently we still live in a world where no one, especially women can't walk alone.

So, when Harry offers to accompany her, she'd now learnt to taked up the offer. Of course only if she can afford the trip, as she doesn't like to rely on him for anything. She's also gotten more confident traveling alone. She'd learnt to get out of her comfort zone and actually talk to people other than just asking for their coffee orders and serve them.

That also gave her a sense of acceptance about herself as she found people who went through, or are going through similar life situations as hers. Yeah, she loves her friends, Alec and Brielle, she would never trade them for anyone else. But it's nice to make mew acquaintances.

Today, she was going to see Harry after a long time. She had unfortunately missed his birthday this year as her family was nice enough to drag her along with them to their relatives' wedding. It was two week affair. And she hadn't seen him since the after new year's.

She saw him at his concert venue directly, with her luggage bag in hand. He had just gotten off doing the soundcheck. He was surprised because he was supposed to meet her back at his (their!) hotel room, her flight was supposed to be delayed which didn't happened and she got to see him early. Least to say he attacked with a bear hug, as she ran towards him and with her limbs wrapped around him.

"I missed you so much!" She mumbled, her face resting in the gap between his neck and her arm.

"I missed you so much too baby!" He scoffed happily, holding onto her tightly so she doesn't fall straight on her butt. She wouldn't let go. Honestly, he doesn't want her to either. "You good?"

"Mhmm." She nodded, and jumped back on her own two feet. Her arms slipped to wrap around his torso as she looked up at him. "Better now. With you."

"Oh my god, you need to stop flirting with me. I'm engaged for god's sake!" He rolled his eyes jokingly.

"I miss you too much when you're gone!" She snuggle her face into fabric of his hoodie. Harry sighed, slipping his fingers through her hair he massaged her scalp gently.

"I miss you too baby." He whispered, "just a month and we'll be getting and off to our honeymoon, then I'm all yours! For now let's go to my green room." He dragged her and her luggage along with him back stage to his green room. "want a cuppa baby?"

"Sure!" She nodded and looked around his room. The sofa was different but the pillows were same, his humidifier, clothes box, his own suit case with regular clothes. It was felt like him and it felt like home to her. "It's cold here, isn't it?"

"Yeah, a little. The AC's on." He said, "don't feel it while I'm performing though."

"Thank you!" She took the cup of tea he gave her and sat next to her.

"How was your flight?" He asked, his hand rested on her thigh as he scooted closer to her.

"It was fine." YN nodded. "I have to tell you something though!" She placed the hot cup of tea to the side.

"What is it, baby?"

"You remember we talked about trying for a baby, right?" She started off, "well, ummm... I talked to my gynaecologist and my physician, I can get off birth control and we can see from there. They have to change up few of my medications like the painkillers I take for my arthritis and start with prenatal vitamins."

"You sure that's fine with you, baby?" He asked, "changing up the medications and all? I know they'll have to cut off a few things which help you, I don't want you in pain all throughout that time. Being pregnant is hard as it is."

"I don't know." She shrugged, "I have never been pregnant before. But we can see."

"Only if you're so sure about it." He sighed not knowing what to say further, "or we have other options we can opt for always."

"Okay..."

"Don't be upset, love!" He sighed, "I said we have other options only if it doesn't work put of us, okay? I just want to make sure you're fine."

"I am." She assured him.

"Okay." He smiled and placed a tender kiss on her cheek, holding her close to him, "would you like to practice baby making after the show then?"

"I would love to!" She chuckled, giving him a kiss on his mouth. Harry pulled her in before she could try to retrieve, buttoning his mouth back on hers. His hand wandered down to her hips back up inside her shirt rather quickly. "Harry, not here please." She managed to speak up, "anyone can walk in on us."

"Yeah, I'm sorry." He sighed, "just missed you so much!"

"I missed you too." She cooed.

They both cuddled for next two hours till he had to get ready for the show, having a nice baby talk. YN fell asleep there.

"Hey baby, do you wanna wake up?" He gave her arm a soft squeeze.

"Hmm?" YN wome up confused.

"Do you want to wake up? I'm about to go on stage in a bit." He shared.

"How long did I sleep for?" She sighed feeling groggy from being woken up from deep sleep.

"A couple of hours."

"Oh, I'm sorry." She sat up, "and yes I'm up now. Want to see you perform."

"Yeah?" He smiled, "well, I have twenty minutes if you want to change to freshen up or something?"

"Yeah, I need to pee. Where is the toilet?"

"The left door." Be pointed behind him. "Wait!" He pulled her back to steal a quick kiss. "Chop-chop baby love." He smack her bum but recieved one right after. "Ouch!"

"Yeah, ouch!" She yawned walking to the bathroom.

......................................................................

"Last kiss and I'll be out!" Harry promised as he stole another kiss from his missus.

"Harry, stop hogging your missus you need to be on the stage, now!" Tom yelled at him.

"Yes!" Harry yelled back. "Stay safe, okay?"

"I will." She nodded, "go break a bone!"

He felt another smack on his butt. "You're gonna pay for it." He challenged her before he was ready to run out.

"Sure." She rolled her eyes and made her way to the little VIP area by the stage where a few of Harry's industry friends were going to be.

YN's not had a good time with Harry's industry friends except the rest of 1D boys and his immediate work friends like, Jeffery and his wife, Tom, Tyler and the Love Band, well in short his immediate circle of friends. She still had a good amount of amazing people to hang out with whilst her soon-to-be husband worked.

Harry came up on the stage, YN was stood at the side back stage where she can watch him perform. He's like a toddler running around the stage, stumbling and even falling sometimes. Throughout he kept looking at her and smiling.

He's indeed very happy today, especially now his soon-to-be wife is by his side.

He was so happy that he still had the adrenaline pumping through his body when they got back to their room hotel.

"Ow!" YN gasped when he pinned her to the wall, one shoe off as she was stopped by him. He smeared his lips over hers, gathering her hands behind her back. She knew exactly where this was going to go and she didn't mind at all.

It reminded her of their first time. Similar situation, he had just gotten home from a heavy workout session all sweaty. Leading her to his bedroom upstairs, leaving her on the bed for a moment before he went and washed his hands. He debunked that thing for her which she always watched in the movies. And he gave her a head. That's all they did that night. And oh boy did she enjoyed every milliseconds of it, and still remember. YN shocked herself with how comfortable she is with him now versus she was the first time around.

He took off his jacket and threw it on the floor as he picked her up with his hands on her bum. He made his way to the bed, placed her carefully on the mattress as he managed to fit between her thighs. He broke the kiss to give her a breather.

"I missed you so much!" He mumbled leaving a chaste of sloppy wet kissed down her jawline to her neck. A moan slipped through her mouth when she felt his hand on her breast. He lifted his head up to press another kiss on her mouth. "Is it alright if go down on you?"

"Wait..." She stopped him, "haven't shaved down there."

He looked at her in disbelief, "does it look like I care, baby!" It wasn't a question though, "still okay?"

"Mhmm." She nodded, feeling a shiver run down her spine. She missed him as well, in every way. But this not their usual thing after being away for months. They usually get a take out, watch TV or just catch up because Harry always tired and jet lagged. Even though he's a horny animal, she's suggest against his needs and make him rest first.

Her man doesn't like to rest.

With one last kiss on her mouth he got to unbuttoning her jeans and taking them off with her knickers. She layed there vulnerable, visibility wet and dripping. Before she could get another moment to get awkward his mouth was on her clit. As much as he loves to make her come with just his mouth, she loves that too.

Feeling his warm tongue move against her already sensitive and swollen bud of nerves, how his fingers occasionally slip inside of her wet hole. Making her squirm under him. Just to replace his digits with his tongue. He's a skill full man.

"Oh, I'm so close!" She muttered with her voice now becoming more breathy and heavy. It's been what feel like an eternity but mostly because they've been away for so long from one another. The feel of his warmth tongue and his digits now pumping inside of her was pushing her just closer to the edge of her orgasm.

"You gonna come for me, baby?" He asked before he gave her clit another hard suck all the while pumping his fingers in ger pussy, "come for me, yeah?" It wasn't long until she was reaching her orgasm. "Was that good?"

"Amazing!" She chuckled, his weight on top of her as he kissed her cheek moving to her neck. "It tickles."

"I love you."

"And I love you more."

"Not a chance!" He scoffed jokingly, "I love you more. And I am sweaty."

"I don't care, I've missed you!" With her arms around his neck it was enough of a que for him to kiss her again.

"Wanna hop in the shower with me then, baby?" He suggested, finally giving her a moment to breathe.

"Mhmm." She nodded. He briefly crouched to take her off her shoe which he barely gave her a moment to take off herself. Slipped off his shoes as he guided her to the bathroom.

"Is that my hoodie?" He realised-- rather late-- she was wearing his black hoodie with 'DAMN.' written on it as he washed up his hands.

"Our hoodie you mean? Yes." She admitted.

"Cheeky!" Harry chuckled, "c'mere." He placed his hands on her hips he propped her up on the wash besin counter. "Want this off?"

"Yes please." She nodded. Despite him being careful, the fabric got caught in her necklace. "Whoops!"

"It's alright." He fixed it quickly as she sat there giggling. It was like the very first time, how her shirt caught up on her earring and she apologised for laughing at that silly thing. "Remember how flustered you were the first time?" He pressed a kiss on her cheek and chin with his arms wrapped around her naked torso.

"Still embarrassed about tha--" her body shuddered feeling his fingertips run feathery strokes on her spine, wetness in between her legs growing once again.

"Still find it to be the most adorable thing." He moved down to her to her neck, leaving a trail of feathery kisses on her warm skin, finally he looked up to place firm kiss on her mouth, "it makes everything feel so much more better. Remember how I got a cramp in my leg the other day?"

"Yeah, you were screaming in a high pitched voice." She giggled.

"Well, I'm not embarrassed about that because it was my fault I didn't drink enough water that day." He explained, "we can have a little laugh you know." With that be picked her up and walked in the shower to place her back on her feet carefully. He took a moment to shed his pants and boxers, the evident kind of hard on of his was now on a full show.

"Harry it's too cold!" She gasped feeling the water fall over her body.

"If I up the temperature, we're going to be boiled by the end." He pointed out.

"It's not that hot!" She argued, and turned rhe heat up just a tiny bit. "Please?"

"It's summer!" He groaned in defeat. She still kept on her cheeky puppy face to convince him as be buttoned her mouth on his standing on her tippy toes. "You're lucky I love you."

"The luckiest one." Her hand slowly crept downwards over his chest and pecks.

"Cheeky!" He kissed her her again. He still enough of her, he hopes it stays that way. Just as he was about to say something, he felt her warm hand wrapped his hardene penis. "Fuck, fuck!"

"Can we go now?" He asked, "just missed you so much!"

"Yes!" She nodded, as she did his hand was behind her knee lifting her leg up at the same time pushing her against the shower wall. Slowly slipping in through her folds. Just heavy breathing to be heard, especially from Harry. Low grunk and cussing in his voice which only grew deeper.

Air in her lungs gor sucked out when he started moving. His hard and deep thrusts making a new rhythm, making her wrap her arms around him for support.

"God I missed you so much!" His forehead rested on her, "so warm for me." It wasn't enough, he slip out, turned her around to slip right back in her. He picked up his pace, making her orgasm right again.

Least to say, they spent about half an hour there.

......................................................................

"Can we order Pizza?" YN asked, as she tied her bathrobe tie around her waist. Harry had already placed her back on the counter.

"Of course baby, which one do you want?" He was already walking out to grab the hotel phone.

"A small cheese one, thank you." He ordered for the pizza and went back to her, "wanna help you with that." He stopped her as she was about do the last few steps of her skin care. Well, it was just four steps, step was done in the shower. Last two were serum and moisturising.

Harry loves to pamper her.

"Here lemme do that too!" She pulled her Fiancé back towards her caging him in between her legs.

YN placed a few dots on the moisturiser on his cheeks, his forehead, his chin and lastly on his nose for comedic purposes. She proceeded to work the product in his skin, his prominent stubble was poked the skin of her palms. He looked like a little kitten being petted, as she ran her thumbs on the apples of his cheeks.

"Done!" She announced.

"Do you want to be little spoon?" He asked as he picked her up again with one on her back and other behind her knees.

"You know I'm never going to say no to that." She booped his nose, "and you got to let me walk, bestie."

"Just fucked the shit out of you and you're calling me bestie?" He cocked his eye brow up carefully placing her back on her feet just for her to cling back onto him. She tried her best to stand on her wobbly legs, but she was scooped right off her feet and carried to their shared bed.

"I loved it though."

"Yeah?"

"Yeah!" She nodded. But they were interrupted by the room service.

"The pizza is here, your majesty!" He presented her the pizza in a grant way along with a bottle of water, though he took a sip of it first. "Asked them put extra cheese on it for you my love."

"Thank you!" She grinned.

Harry lied next to her on his spot over his tummy, dressed in his purple bathrobe. "So, about the baby?"

"Hmm?"

"Are we good now, or do we have to wait till to start trying?"

"Still need to get off birth control." She shared.

"Wait, doesn't that help you with your period?" He realised.

"Kind of, but I think I can go without those now, it's complicated. So these other medications for my arthritis made my period have rave parties every month, it should be good as I'd have to stop taking those meds and switch to something else." She explained, offering him a bite of her pizza which he accepted. "Do you want to go with me to the next appointment? It's after the tour is finished."

"Of course I'd love to go with you darling." He agreed, "and about the wedding. Did you find a dress yet?"

"No..." She pouted, "my grandma doesn't want me to get a white dress."

"Why so, isn't that the traditional colour?"

"Not in India." She smiled sheepishly, "well, everyone does whatever they want now-a-days but my grandma's a little old fashioned. And white is worn at funerals generally."

"Oh, it's so different everywhere then!" He never thought about it until now, "what colour do you want to get then?"

"I want a white, but ahe wants me to get a red one. She said 'You're not having your funeral, you're getting married', it pissed me off. Not like she's paying a single penny. Just not going to take her or my mum to the next appointment at this boutique Brielle found." She shared mocking her grandma's way of talking, giving him yet another bite of her pizza and he was eating it. "Like she's ever going to be invited to either of those."

"Hey, don't say that!" He gasped.

"Right, she won't live that long anyway."

"Oh god, you're a meanie." He gasped again, "big, big, big meanie!"

"Yeah? And that old wrinkly lady isn't?" She chuckled, "she was trying to find me a guy at my sister's. I was fourteen years old!"

"Touché."

"Yeah, and she did. A thirty-two year old man." She added. "Luckily my parents got minds of their own and stood up for me."

"What the fuck!"

"Yeah." She nodded. "He was rich actually, he owned a big finance and insurance company in Saudi."

"So he is rich, rich?" He was stunned.

"Yup, a turn of about eighty-five mil to one billion." She shared, "he died though, Cardiac arrest, five years ago."

"A big loss." He scrunched up his nose.

"Meh, I don't care." She rolled her eyes.

"Yeah, and now you've a Fiancé who's a decent, indie singer." He nodded, "worth it."

"You are anything but Indie, darling." She laughed. "My wait was worth though, now I can be a trophy wife I want to." She leaned back over the fluffy pillow.

"Oh definitely wouldn't mind that." He agreed and scooted closer to sit next to her taking a yet another bite of the slice in her hand, maintaining a eye contact.

"What in the Italian Christian Grey!" She almost choked on the dough in the mouth.

"What's gotten into you today?" Harry laughed, he fetched water just in case. "Being so funny, did you get accidentally drunk?"

"That was sexy not gonna lie." She shared ignoring his remarks.

"Well," he blushed.

"Awh, look at you blushing, my shy baby!" She cooed leaning forward to kiss his cheek. Just just make him giggle again as he chewed on the fold.

Alas he pulled himself together and draped his arm around her shoulder to bring her closer to him. She was just too busy dipping the crust in the complimentary cheese dip.

"Where do you fancy going to for our honeymoon?" He asked. To be honest they planned anything of their honeymoon. Harry wants it to be special and somewhere she haven't been to before, which is a lot of places. He's just lucky he gets paid to travel and perform in diffe parts of the world.

"I don't quite know yet," she spoke with her mouth full of food, "is there anywhere you want to go?"

"I want to know where you want to go, baby." He pushed the baby hairs off her face, "just want to listen to you with this."

"Finally!" She gasped dramatically. Harry has taken almost everything about the wedding planning on himself. "Finally you admitted it!"

"Hey!"

"No, you've taken over everything. I don't know how you switched the plan of The Savoy hotel to your house in Italy!" She sighed dramatically. "The Gucci room isn't available on our wedding, is it?"

"It is, but figured it would be more private if we got married on our own property, baby." He explained, "everything we have, we share now."

"Okay." She nodded, "I don't know how long I'd be able to take on the break for. I guess we can go somewhere near England?"

"Doesn't matter baby, just tell me two of your dream vacation countries or cities and I'll take you there." He said, "and the owner of your cafe is my school friend, I can talk to him for you."

"What?" She almost chocked on cheese and dough, "he's your friend and you never told me that?"

"Well, I never got the chance to.' he shrugged sheepishly, "but I can still talk to him."

"I don't know, I love my job." She pouted. "I don't want him to fire me."

"He won't baby." Harry assured her, "now come on give me two names."

"We can either go to Puerto Rico or Greece?"

"Those are amazing options!" He never thought of those places, "and I've never been to countries. How about we go to both? We can spend a month in Puerto Rico and a month in Greece."

"That's a lot."

"No it's not." He countered, "I've been touring for two and half years, I deserve a long, long honeymoon and vacation with my wife by my side."

"What about our new house? We haven't even started looking for one." She reminded him.

Look, YN can either afford to pay at least some amount for the house or spend it all on their honeymoon plans. No way in heavens Harry's gonna make the trip cheap. He'll find his way to make it extravagant. She'd feel too bad if he's the only one paying for everything.

"We'll start looking for one as soon as we get back." He assured her, "and we have a lot more work to do, we have a baby to make!"

"Yes we do." She blushed. "But seriously, Harry, I don't think I can afford a trip that long."

"Baby!" He cooed, "it's a wedding present from me to you. And you're refusing for me to get you an actual present. So this is perfect."

"I'd feel too bad." She pouted, "you won't let me get you anything either."

"I'm sure you're not going to sit still until you get me anything, baby, so I'd say it's fair enough." He pointed out, "come on, please? Let me take you somewhere you've always wanted to go!"

"Okay, let's go to Greece but just for two weeks."

"Four?" He negotiated.

"Okay!" She sighed in defeat, there is no point in negotiating with his there. He's going to just tease her further. They sealed their deal with a kiss. "Oh god, why is this so stressful? We have to register for our marriage certificate."

"We'll have my lawyer do that for us, baby, don't worry about it." He assured her.

"Can I tell you something?"

"Anything."

"I, uhhhh, want to take your last name." She shared hesitantly.

"You want to?" He looked rather shocked.

"Mhmm." She nodded, "you don't mind that right, you seem shocked?"

"Of course I don't baby. I just did not expect that, yes. But I'm happy either way." He shrugged. "You really want to do that?"

"Mhmm." She nodded snuggling closer to him.

They talked more about their wedding planning, and preparations until one of them was fast asleep. Well, it was YN fell asleep first.

......................................................................

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[jtl-fics]

Fluent Freshman - Part 44

PREV

The flight up to New York is a pleasant one.

The time in the airport itself had been less pleasant. Matt, as it turns out, is a firm believer in arriving with just enough time to check a bag, get through security, and get to the gate. He had claimed up, down, left, and right that he had it down to a science.

No matter how many times Smith had wondered about the scientific rigor of this 'science' he still kept it to himself. There was no need for Smith to voice his uncertainty with this plan because Kevin well and truly had it covered.

"You're giving us only an hour to check bags, get through security, and get to our gate?!" Kevin demands.

"Kevin, if you wanted to be there earlier then you could have asked Andrew to give yo a ride." Matt says. "We'll be fine."

"You know what Neil and Andrew get like when they have a long roadtrip ahead of them." Kevin argues.

"All lovey-dovey?" Nicky asks as Aaron makes a gagging sound.

"No, well yes, but no they always stop and buy all of the worst food too." Kevin reminds. "I'm just concerned about us missing our flight! We have barely enough time!" Kevin huffs crossing his arms.

"You're wrong anyways." Aaron says idly as he continues to text with Katelyn.

"How am I wrong?!" Kevin demands.

"We also have to park within that hour that Matt has left us with." Aaron says looking up from his phone.

"Matt!" Kevin squawks.

"It'll be fine." Matt reassures for the 2nd time.

"We all have checked bags!" Kevin exclaims, "What if we miss our flight?!" he wails.

"It'll be fine!" Matt repeats.

"No it won't!" Kevin exclaims.

---

It was fine.

The only real delays they met were at security.

Smith prided himself on being efficient in the security line. He has his watch off, his phone and ID secured in a zipped jacket pocket, his backpack and electronics in separate trays, and his shoes ready to be slipped off.

So he was shamed to have been the cause of the first delay when the TSA agent wouldn't wave Smith through the metal detector since she didn't realize he was there. That had been a whole anxiety attack and a half as the line had formed up behind him all wondering what the hold-up was.

Finally she seemed to startle as she realized that Smith had been standing there waiting and waved him through.

The other delay was that Kevin got patted down after he had forgotten to empty his 'emergency' water bottle.

It was probably for the best that they didn't have to be in the airport for that long. Every announcement that it was very important to not leave your bag unattended made him worry that with every blink somehow someone had slipped a bomb into his backpack.

While it was on his back.

As he was running with the rest of his friends to their gate.

"It just had to be the gate on the other end of the terminal." Aaron huffs.

"It would have been 100% perfect if someone hadn't left their water bottle in their bag despite the, let me check, 3,820 signs that said remove all liquids from your carry-ons!" Matt says as they continues to run.

"I said I forgot!" Kevin yells back from his spot at the front of the pack. Smith was under the distinct impression that Kevin was keeping pace with them since he had seen the Striker move much faster on the court and during warm-ups.

"We could have forgiven that!" Nicky pants, "Why did you have to slam the whole thing to prove that it was 'just water'?" he asks.

"Because I wanted to prove I wasn't a national security threat!" Kevin says. "I'll be going to the Olympics in a couple years and I can't have that on my record." he continues as he rounds a corner.

"What record?!" Smith asks suddenly worried that there was a record.

"Smithy, there's no record Kevin's just an idiot. An idiot who got patted down, tested for explosives, and had his carry-on searched." Nicky huffs.

"You don't know that there's not a record! The record everything nowadays!" Kevin huffs and their gate is in sight.

"Kevin, just shut up!" Aaron exclaims as they reach the line for their flight.

"Wait why aren't any of you getting shitty with Smiths?!" Kevin asks.

"His delay was like a minute and more importantly NOT HIS FAULT!" Nicky defends.

"He should have just walked through!" Kevin argues.

"Oh it's fine if he gets a record but not you?!" Aaron asks.

"So there is a record?!" Smith asks again.

They reach the line and the largely empty area around their gate is more than enough evidence that this was the final boarding. Smith breathed a sigh of relief as he took his place in line behind Nicky.

"The lines pretty slow, I'm going to go get a water." Kevin says and before any of them can say anything he is off towards a busy looking Newsweek store.

"I cannot believe him." Aaron huffs.

"All that water he just drank and is about to drink? He has lost window seat privileges." Matt pants wiping sweat from his brow.

"Agreed." Nicky says.

Smith laughed between panting breaths. His stomach hurt a bit from the stress of running but it was fine.

They get on the plane without Kevin and head to their seats. Most of the overhead storage is taken up at this point but Smith slides his bag under the middle seat in front of him after Matt

In the end, Kevin barely made it onto the plane in time since he got caught up in deciding on water. "You're in my seat." Kevin says as the only man not yet seated.

"I am not about to spend this flight getting up every 2 minutes because you have to pee." Matt says, "Abby didn't used to need to take all those pitstops when we're on the bus." Matt adds.

"I hate the aisle, the cart could hit my legs." Kevin argues.

"Then you can sit in the middle if Smith's willing to move." Matt says.

"You can have the middle Kevin." Smith offers actually preferring the aisle seat since then he doesn't have to ask anyone to move for him.

"I hate the middle seat, there is no room." Kevin crosses his arms.

"Smith is like only 3 inches shorter than you and he's not complaining." Matt continues.

"It's an important 3 inches."

"I bet it is."

"Nicky, are you serious?"

"What?!"

"There is an uninvolved member of the public, right there."

"He's wearing headphones it's fine!"

---

It's fine.

Eventually Kevin takes the middle seat if for no other reason than Matt stubbornly pretends to go to sleep but absolutely does not want the aisle seat either.

Smith gives it up and ends up with his own preferred seat while Kevin pointedly takes both of the arm rests, as is his right. The plane ride progresses smoothly from there. Smith has always liked flying. There is always a sense that the second that he gets onto the plane and the door closes he has absolutely zero control over what happens afterwards.

That is a nice comfort.

He pays attention to the safety briefing, finds his nearest exit, and that he should secure the bag over his own face before securing it on Kevin's.

He puts his headphones on and tries not to think about the anxiety of meeting the 'girls'.

He has heard much about the 'girls'.

Allison Reynolds. Allison was someone who's legacy existed even outside of the team. Smith didn't know much about fashion but a Reynolds bet remained a solid practice within Palmetto. She was, undeniably, absolutely gorgeous and if Kevin was to be believed 'kind of a bitch'. Nicky had swatted his arm but had said that it was not entirely inaccurate but like 'in the best way'.

Dan Wilds. He met Dan. Dan was nice. Also, if Matt was to be believed, the best human to ever walk the planet earth. The reason the sun rose in the east and set in the west. The gravitational pull that held the universe together. If Andrew is to be believed, she's fine.

Renee Walker. Renee was the one who taught Andrew how to use knives. His friend has talked warmly of her, in the way that Andrew talks warmly about anyone which is mentioning them at all. She was the one that Smith was the most anxious about meeting.

Kevin turns his nose up at the ginger ale that Smith gets but he's allowed these now per his actual doctors orders.

1 hour left until arriving at JFK.

He hopes this ginger ale is enough to calm his stomach since he's still not allowed Pepto.

MASTERPOST FOR ALL PARTS OF FLUENT FRESHMAN AU

NEXT

[books-and-catears]

I need to cry, my suicide tendencies are at there peak, can you help me with something with the Obey me brothers?

Like please I want to cry my eyes out

Okay hon, you really need to talk to someone about this okay? Please make sure you're not alone. I'm so sorry this is happening to you. I don't know what's wrong but things always get better...You will get through this. Again please talk to someone and don't isolate yourself okay?

It's been a while since I've received this ask, I apologise deeply for the delay, and I sincerely hope you're feeling better now.

TW: Suicide ideation

Cry Your Heart Out

Lucifer doesn't like the way your eyes look as you sit in on another RAD council meeting. Your mind is far, far away. Like you don't want to be here. He ended the meeting early so you could go home. But you look the same.

"MC." He knocks on your door after dinner. You open the door. Somehow your eyes look worse. His gut screams at him to not leave you alone.

"I feel particularly tired today. Would you like to listen to some music with me?" He asks. You shrug and say, "Sure." You almost seem like you're on autopilot.

He takes you by the hand and leads you down. The music has a strange melancholy that stung your heart. Like it understood you. Like it was screaming your misery out loud. You didn't know when your face flushed red, steaming tears falling off your cheeks. In the next second, you're buried in his chest.

"I- I can't-"

"You don't have to say anything. Just stay here for as long as you want."

❄️

Mammon didn't like the way you were avoiding him. It's not like you were ignoring him, but you seemed so distant. So...disheartened. Why? He couldn't even bring himself to ask.

There was something he dreaded deeply about the answer. Because he'd seen a semblance of those eyes before and it never ended well. And the long rope just resting on your desk brought forth more worry.

"Oi Lucifer, I have a favor to ask." He muttered into his phone. That day, after school, you found him hanging upside down from the ceiling in your room.

"Mammon what-"

"What's wrong with ya lately?"

"Me? I'm fine-"

"I can't get down unless you tell me the truth. These ropes are enchanted and everything! So if you want me out of here, you better spill okay?!"

Why do you care? The question died in your throat. And you spilled tears before words. He was down in seconds, cooing in shock and distress. "Oi, I'm sorry I didn't mean to-"

But you held on tight to his jacket. He cared. That was all you needed really.

❄️

Leviathan was sitting straighter than usual as you entered his room. Alert and eager. You almost felt bad coming all the way to his room to tell him you don't feel like gaming today. But the console wasn't even plugged.

"Hey Levi-"

"Don't do it. Don't you think about it!" He sounds around. He was trembling, on the brink of crying.

"O-okay I won't say no to gaming with you I'm sorry I didn't know-" You bent down to his level. He caught you offguard, throwing his arms around you.

"You're thinking of leaving again, aren't you?" Levi's voice cracked, muffled in your shoulder. "You're thinking of going away and never coming back."

"Wait...Levi, when did I even say-"

"I thought you were just spending less time with me, I just assumed you finally got tired of me. But then you weren't with my brothers either... you're tired of ALL OF US."

You were tired of yourself, you wanted to reassure him. But he wasn't going to stop wailing anytime soon. In your heart you were just a little bit glad to have someone want you.

"Please don't go... we'll be better. I'll be better. I'll be even better than my brothers! I'll try my best to be! So don't you dare thinking of going anywhere!"

❄️

Satan seemed to be extra wary of you during all the magical classes. Potions, Charms, Curses and hexes - everywhere the demon of Wrath followed even tricking teachers if he needed to.

"I'm not trying skip my classes or anything, Satan." You said one day, turning to look at him. It was the last class of the day and everyone had left the room except the two of you.

"What I'm worried about is much worse than that and you know it, MC. Now let's go home."

He reaches out his hand. You don't take it, just sighing and glancing at the potion on your desk.

"Everyday I wake up hoping that all these bad feelings were a nightmare. But every morning, it's real. I'm tired."

"What is it that worries you so?" He leans down to cup your face, turning your eyes to meet his earnest ones.

"It's a human problem."

"I don't need to be human to understand your pains. Just give it a chance, won't you?"

You left the classroom holding his hand, the vial of the Sleeping Draught potion you'd concocted lay smashed, a mess on the floor. Satan apologized for his clumsiness.

❄️

Asmodeus had the unfortunate timing to barge in the middle of your breakdown. He gasped and fell to the ground watchin you curled up in bed with your eyes red and puffed up.

Immediately on his knees he crawls towards you, his gentle touch nudging you back to some resemblance of reality. "Darling..."

"I'm fine. Just need some more rest." You shook your head and tried to brave a smile. "Need to be alone and relax a bit."

"Oh MC, if it's relaxation you want, there's noone but me that can provide you the best!" He promptly tucked you in the sheets with him.

"Asmo I don't need-"

"Shhh! Give me a chance, won't you? If you don't like within 10 minutes, I'll leave you alone."

You closed your eyes and sighed, wanting to get over it. But then Asmo's fingers ran through your hair, soft and cool, gentle and slow. For once, all the horrible voices in your head fell asleep before you did.

"How do you feel MC?" He coos as he brushes some hair off your forehead. You only murmur in hia name in response, he chuckles and pulls you closer. His heart beats easier seeing you at peace.

[winchesterscorner]

[Crowley] - Take The Help, Darling

♫ - Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Goulding

You weren't sure how it had happened, or for that matter, when. What you did know, right now, is that you were pretty banged up and bleeding quite excessively. It was nothing you probably couldn't patch up yourself, and you knew for a fact you had experienced much worse. Nobody had been on Death's door quite as much as you. 

You had joined Sam and Dean in their hunting business almost a year ago to the day, and you had gone from being a childhood best friend of Sam (which came with a Dean) to being a very valued member of the team. Your specialty was language and deciphering symbols where the boys could not. Their knowledge was nothing to be ashamed of, they were very clever, but there were certain things even they didn't know and always turned to you in the end. You didn't mind, of course, they kept you safe and fed in repayment.

Almost all of the time.

This time, however, was unexpected. You found yourself dealing with three demons, who had showed up just outside the bunker and were looking for Dean specifically. After you had refused to let them in, obviously knowing better, they drew their knives and you dropped your bag, brandishing your own blade.

"Okay, so we're doing this.." you thought to yourself. 

One demon went down fairly easy, but it was still you against two, and you weren't the biggest or tallest of people. Not as though that would matter, these were very strong demons. You did a pretty good job fending them off, and you tried to outrun them long enough to at least call one of the boys. You almost had it, finger hovering over Dean's name, and just before you could press anything, your phone was flung out of your hand, well out of reach. Sighing, you took a deep breath and launched yourself over the box you had been behind, catching one of the demons with your blade. As he went down, it gave you just enough time to see where the other one was. 

The fight went on for a few more minutes, you both punching and kicking as well as getting a few nicks here and there from each blade. However, one misstep from you and the demon stabbed you in the thigh, causing you to fall to the floor. The demon stood above you, with a grin, knowing you realistically can't go anywhere. 

"We'll send Winchester your way."

You closed your eyes tight, expecting the worst and accepting your fate. Some seconds had passed, too many for a demon so intent on killing you. You opened your eyes to see what the delay was, and the demon was above you, knife sticking out of his front. The metal was removed, and he fell next to you, lifeless. Above you now, stood a familiar face, and a very unexpected one at that.

"Hello, Y/N, in a spot of bother, are we?" 

Crowley was not the person you were expecting to see before you, he may actually have been the last person you thought you'd see. 

You hadn't really known Crowley too long, about as long as you had been working with the boys. You knew he was untrustworthy, but to you, he had never been anything but kind. There was a time when you needed someone, and Crowley had simply popped in to annoy Dean to pass a bit of time, but instead found you crying on the floor. He wasn't sure why, but his instincts brought him to sit next to you, arm around your shoulder to comfort you. You talked out your problem, and found yourself enamoured by him from then on.

You were very aware he was the King of Hell, but he was so sweet to you. He brought you flowers sometimes when the boys were away, gifts here and there. Nothing you had asked for, but you appreciated it nonetheless. Sam and Dean didn't, but really you didn't care. He had a sweet tongue, but mostly he was quick witted and sarcastic and in every situation, he had some sort of quip.

Even in this situation, he still couldn't refrain from a quick bit of sarcasm, which you promptly fired back with. 

"No, I was perfectly fine, of course.." you trailed off, raising an eyebrow at him, to which he shook his head. 

"Right," he started, glancing at your very bloody leg, eyes roaming the rest of your body. "Well, perhaps I should have left you to it, you definitely seemed to have the upper hand."

"Fuck you," you spoke, and he raised his eyebrows suggestively at you, causing you to laugh slightly. Why, you didn't know. But you did, and he probably wouldn't ever let you forget it down the line. 

That was your relationship. Sarcastic comments and suggestive sentences. But, when it came down to it, there was a serious side for you both.

"C'mere. Let me help."

Crowley offered his hand, but you didn't take it, instead trying to get to your feet by using the old wooden crate outside as leverage. That was short lived, as you fell quite quickly, not being able to put pressure on your left leg. Crowley shook his head, and knelt down to you. He took your chin in his hand, making you look at him. He was beautiful. You'd always though it. You couldn't deny that fact, even knowing he was the literal King of Hell. There was still something beautiful about him. His eyes, his face, the way he seemed to care about you more than other humans. 

Snapping out of it, you brought yourself back to the present, where he was staring intently at you, rubbing his thumb along your cheek.

"Take the help, darling."

You nodded, and he smiled. A genuine smile, not the smarmy one he had when Dean was acting up, or the shit-eating one he had when he pushed Sam too far. It was a proper smile, laced with concern. Crowley pushed himself to his feet, and picked you up, bridal style, carrying you to the bunker door. 

"You'll have to let me in, love, the boys don't trust me with a key," he asked, and you shot him a look. He playfully rolled his eyes. "Can't see why."

With a wink, he let you put the key in the door, but you didn't turn it.

"No funny business, yeah? Please behave." Your voice was quiet, serious. He nodded, knowing how much Dean and Sam would rag on you if he did anything... well, Crowley. 

"Promise, lovely, I'm just here to help you, no funny business."

So, you let him in.

True to his word, Crowley lay you down on the sofa and patched you up, taking care to clean and bandage your wounds properly. While he worked, you talked.

"Why did you save me? How did you know I was in trouble?"

Crowley didn't make eye contact, continuing to work, but a smirk grew across his face.

"Actually, to be honest, I didn't come here to save you. I didn't even know you were in danger. I was just here to bother moose and squirrel. I sensed the commotion outside and well, low and behold, I see you. I won't lie, I felt a bit of panic when I saw you."

You raised your eyebrows, shocked at his admission. Crowley never spoke about feelings unless necessary, or that one time he had to feel human feelings, so to hear that was strange.

"And well, I couldn't let you die, darling. I know you can handle yourself, I know that much. But I couldn't lose you."

"Crowley.." he brought a finger to your lips before you could continue.

"Shh, I know how that sounds. I have come to realise that I do care about you. Which is not the kind of confession you think you'd get from the King of Hell. But, you're different to all these other humans. You listen to me, you care. Good god, you nearly died saving my life barely two months ago. And I think.."

With all the might you had in you, no matter how much it hurt, you sat up and threw your body forward, landing in Crowley's arms. This silenced him then and there, and he wrapped his arms around you gently, not wanting to hurt you more. You pulled back, just enough to look into his eyes again, and smiled. Leaning in, you brushed your lips with his and let him close the gap. To your surprise, he was gentle, the brush of his beard against your face felt nice. He held you by the waist as you sat in his lap, and when you both pulled away, he cradled your head against his chest.

"Next time, love, just tell me I'm boring you."

He chuckled, and you tapped him playfully. 

"If I had to shut you up every time you were boring, Crowley, you'd never be able to talk again."

He simply laughed, kissed the top of your head, and leaned back on the sofa. You felt heavy, the energy you had for the day had disappeared after the fight, but you knew if you fell asleep here, almost certainly Dean and Sam would be back eventually, and you would have so much explaining to do. But, despite that, as Crowley ran his fingers softly through your hair, you felt yourself drifting off in between his legs, content in your newfound relationship with the King of Rotten.

In the end, you were glad you took the help.

Thank you for reading! <3

If you enjoy my content, you can buy me a coffee here :)

[poppibranchlover]

Apparently, time needs to fly very fast in order for us to make progress for this year. 😊

Why did it have to be in November

[traintrainingmontage]

Hard Worker

"Urgh, why do I have t' pull th' heaviest goods train?!" Duncan groused. "Like always, I have t' do th' hardest work!"

Skarloey simply laughed. "That's because you're the strongest engine we have, Duncan. You're the one best suited for the job."

"Mmmm..." Duncan made a discontented noise, but didn't bother complaining further. Skarloey was right, after all, and his ego didn't mind the praise.

"Alright, fine! But once the sun goes down, that's it! I'm off work, and I can't be asked fer more!"

Nearby, Duke gave a disgruntled humph. "Really now, Duncan. Such an attitude simply is not suitable. Why, if someone broke down--"

"So what!" Duncan sneered. "If they break down, and my work day's over, it's not my job t' help!"

Duke was about to retort, but he didn't have the time; instead, the older engine was interrupted by a weesh of steam as Duncan pulled out of the shed, off to begin his day.

"Can you believe that fool of an engine?!" Duke huffed as he watched Duncan pull away. "Such a selfish brat!"

"Now now, Duke," Skarloey gently chided. "Duncan may say those things now, but he's come a long way from the stubborn-screwed engine he used to be. He cares about every last one of us, even if he won't admit it."

"Tch," Duke scoffed. "I'd have to see it to believe it."

---

Much to Duncan's dismay, his work seemed to take forever. First, there was a delay while he was refilling his tank. Then, there was a delay as cattle had to be cleared from the tracks. Finally, loading his slate trucks took an eternity, and the dumb trucks themselves were no help, singing their songs and annoying the workers. By the time he was on his way back to Crovan's Gate, a long train of slate trailing behind him, the sun was halfway below the horizon.

"FINALLY!" Duncan groaned as the familiar roofs of Glennock came into view. "We're almost there!"

"That we are," Corrine, his driver smiled. "It's been a long day, but we'll be done soon."

"That's right!" Duncan grinned. "No more work fer me--"

Suddenly, a crackling came over the radio, startling both Duncan and his driver. The radios were still fairly new additions, and took some getting used to. "Attention all personnel, attention all personnel. Requesting the breakdown train at Glennock. No. 1 Skarloey has come off the rails. I repeat, No. 1 Skarloey has come off the rails. Requesting the breakdown train."

Corrine sighed. "Poor Skarloey. Hopefully someone will come for him soon."

For a long moment, Duncan didn't answer. Then, he heaved a quiet sigh. "I'll do it."

Corrine blinked at her engine in shock. "Really? But you were so determined this morning--"

"I know!" Duncan groaned. "But it's on our way anyway, and we've got workers in th' back comin' home from helpin' wit' the slate!" The engine frowned, making a face like he dared her to disagree with him. "'Sides, I know I don't have ta do it, but..."

He trailed off, but his driver smiled. "You don't need to justify yourself to me, Duncan. Let's go."

---

Duncan soon arrived with the breakdown train, finding a contrite Skarloey sitting just off the rails, a few trucks groaning loudly behind him. The old engine looked unsurprised to see him, giving a warm smile. "Ah, hullo, Duncan. Thank you for coming to help us even though your work day's over."

The younger engine sneered, but could tell that the comment held no heat. "Yeah, yeah. Just hurry up and set yerself right."

Once Skarloey had been placed back on the tracks and hooked up behind Duncan, he looked back at the long line of slate, then at the engine in front of him. His expression was thoughtful, eyes toward the sky as he looked like he was weighing whether to say something, but then decided to hold his tongue. Duncan raised an eyebrow, looking back at Skarloey. "What? If ye've got somethin' t' say, just say it!"

Skarloey gave a light little huff and a small smile. "Nothing. I just admire how you can pull me, the trucks, and all of this slate."

Duncan paused a moment, then let his gaze drift forward to the tracks ahead of him, wheels beginning to turn as he pulled his weight.

"Well, ye said it yerself. I'm the strongest we have. I can handle this much, y'know!"

Skarloey laughed cheerfully. "I do! I've known it all along!"

---

By the time they got back to the sheds, having unloaded Duncan's slate and gotten Skarloey settled so that he could be looked at tomorrow, the stars were out, twinkling elegantly, and the moon watched on through lazy lashes.

Despite the dim, though, the sheds were bright, alit with cheers at Skarloey's rescue.

"Well," Duke smiled, rolling up to fix Duncan with a merry grin. "It seems I was wrong about you, Duncan."

Duncan simply huffed in response. "I told you all already-- I was going that way when we got the call. Nothin' more to it!"

"Yes, yes," Duke chuckled. "Still, I owe you an apology. I'm sorry."

Duncan paused a moment, his expression uncertain, before finally giving a quiet "Mmhmm." and backing into his berth.

"What did I tell you, Duke?" Skarloey beamed from his own shed.

"Perhaps you're right, Skarloey," Duke chuffed. "He may not want to admit it... but he's got a good heart indeed."

[frauleiiin]

SWTOR Secret Santa 2023

As requested by many, there is the SWTOR Secret Santa for this year! The exchange will be hosted by me @frauleiiin.

The exchange is open to writers, artists and people who make edits!

The exchange works like a real life secret santa. You'll receive a prompt to draw/write/edit a piece for someone and you'll also receive a piece from someone else.

RULES

We'll stick to a Safe For Work (SFW) event to try to include as much people as we can. So no explicit sex or explicit nudity. The exchange is open to 16+.

No extreme gore, blood, violence. Action/fighting scenes are fine and minor blood is okay. If you have doubts refer to me.

If you can't finish your gift in time, please message me @frauleiiin as soon as you can so I can find you a replacement.

Be sure your tumblr can accept private messages from me so I can send you the prompts and check on your progress!

Fanfictions need to be a minimum of 600 words.

Illustrations need to be more elaborated than a sketch. So colored sketch, colored line art, black & white rendered sketch, etc. As long as it feels somehow finished, go for it.

This is an obvious rule but still, Star Wars: The Old Republic pieces ONLY.

SCHEDULE

Signs-ups are open NOW (December 10th)

Signs-up end December 15th at 2:00 PM UTC−5! [CLOSED]

You'll receive your Giftee and prompts on the 15th-16th.

Gifts are due January 1st-11th 20th January (Delayed)

SIGN-UPS

Here's the form to the exchange!

If I forgot anything or you have questions, please, do contact me! The tag this year is #swtor secret santa 2023. I'm really excited for this secret santa, I hope we all get to have a good time!

REBLOG AS MUCH AS YOU CAN, we only have 5 days for the entries this year so let's try to hook as much people we can!!

[thought--bubble]

She's Happy Now Part 5/5 (Final Part)

Modern Aemond X (Ex Girlfriend Reader)

Warnings Below

Word Count: 2,122

She is happy now Master List

Modern Aemond Master List

Full Master List

Banners by @arcielee

Warnings: angst

A/N: I apologize for the delay on this. Had midterms then covid, a job promotion I've been fighting for (should find out on Monday, please pray for me), then a family loss back to back, and was kind of struggling for a moment. I'm happy to get this out, tho!

Could I talk to you for a moment?

Your palms are sweaty while you wait for him to respond.

He looks dumbstruck.

"Hello?" Your patience is wearing thin.

"Oh, um yeah, of course." he gets up, composing himself and settling back into that stoic look of his. "We can go to the gardens? For some privacy?" He sounds indifferent, but in his head, he is analyzing every word he says.

"Fine," you say, unable to mask the anger that you feel. The walk to the garden is quiet, not one word spoken between you. The tension is thick, and you can't help but wonder if this is a good idea. Still, you continue on. 'This is long overdue' you think to yourself.

"I can't believe we are both going to be off at college in a few months, I'm gonna miss you so much" you clutch onto Aemond while laying under the rosebushes in the garden of the keep. Your secret place. Where aemond would take you to be alone.

"It will be fine. We will talk every day and I'll come visit you and you will come to visit me and before you know it we will have graduated and we will be getting married" Aemond says while entwining his hand with yours. "This is just a temporary separation. we'll look back on it later and wonder what in the 7 hells we were so worried about. " he rolls onto his side looking at your face. He pushes a strand of hair behind your ear. "Hey look at me" he says gently.

You turn your head and see his eye looking at you intently. "We are going to be fine baby. Happy as we've always been. I promise."

"You really promise?" You had been worrying for weeks about the upcoming distance. The tales of long-distance relationships between 2 college age students weren't exactly full of glowing success stories.

"I promise, I swear to you. We will be fine. We are simply meant to be" he raised your hand to his mouth and kissed your knuckles. "Always have been"

You enter the garden and sit on a bench that overlooks the rosebushes. Your rosebushes. Aemond is standing by the bench awkwardly unsure if he should sit so close. Your annoyance with him just standing there gets the better of you.

"Sit down, would you?, you're always bouncing its giving me anxiety." Your eyes are downcast, but you know he sat down next to you because you can feel it.

"I heard your little speech. Clearly, there is something you wish to say to me so..... just say it, " you say irritation in your voice. Clenching and unclenching your fists.

Aemonds mouth goes completely dry, and his hands start shaking. He imagined this scenario repeatedly over the last few years, and now that he is here his entire body is laced with anxiety.

"I owe you an apology" he says firmly.

"Yeah.... I guess you do" you say jaw clenched.

Aemond sighs and runs his hand down his face. "I fucked up. There's no question on that...... and I've thought of you practically every day since. You were more than my girlfriend. You were my best friend. My favorite person." He rubs his hands together trying to shake the nerves.

"Then why? Why? Why did you do it?" Your voice is trembling a mix of grief and rage

"Because I'm an idiot. I'm sorry. I know you deserve a better explanation than that, but I don't have one. I didn't plan it out. It wasn't some big conspiracy. It was me. Being a complete moron." He hangs his head and runs his fingers through his hair in frustration.

Your eyes start to well with tears. You lift your head and look toward the sky. "That's it? We lost everything because you're an idiot?" You clench your jaw. "You destroyed me, and it didn't even mean anything?"

He tries to think of a response to this, but he just can't. He doesn't have an answer that will make this better

"I didn't destroy you" he finally says after a long pause.

You look over at him, and your rage boils over. You shove him by his shoulder. "How can you say that? How could you possibly know how I felt? What it did to me?"

"You can't be destroyed." He pauses "you are so strong and-"

You interrupt him "stop. Just stop."

He says your name with an exhale. " I'm not trying to downplay the pain I caused you. I know it was immense. But I can't pretend that I destroyed you. You're so much more than us. You are smart, strong, and beautiful all in your own right. It's impossible to destroy something like that."

You sigh, frustrated. " I guess you're right. I survived. I made it. I'm happy now. " You bite your bottom lip

Aemond pauses and takes a deep breath. "H-he makes you happy huh?" The heartbreak in his voice is undeniable.

You think about this for a minute and smile. "Yeah. Yeah, he does." You feel a twinge of guilt,"even though I waste so much time being angry at you. He is patient. Caring......" You trail off.

"You deserve that." Aemond puts his hand to his chest as if to ease the swelling he feels there. "You deserve someone who puts you first. Someone who is smart enough to recognize what they have"

You ponder this for a minute. Cregan really has been immensely patient. Where a lot of people would have walked away from someone who seemed like they were still hung up on their ex, he was there. Patient understanding.

He sighs. "I know I can't change what I did....... But do you think. That it would be possible to be in your life again? Not the way I was. I know that, but honestly, I'd take anything." He wrings his hands wracked with nerves. "There is a hole in my life, and I know it's you."

Your chest tightens. You know the feeling. You have tried to fill that hole with hate and anger. it weighs heavily on you. "And what exactly do you suggest?"

"Friends?" He turns and looks at you directly now. "Please? I'm not asking for you to forgive me.... I'm not asking that you forget what I've done, but...... I can't go on without you in my life. " he sounds like he is holding back tears. " I've loved you for so long, and it isn't just a romantic love... it's deeper than that. " his breath is shakey.

"I'm still so angry" you say head down looking into your lap. "I don't want to be but I am"

He holds his breath and closes his eye. " I am too. I have been kicking my own arse for the last 4 years every day for chasing you out of my life." He rubs his palms down the front of his trousers. "Asking you this... it isn't easy but I have to try, don't I?"

You finally lift your head and look into his eye, and a wave of butterflies goes through you. You chuckle lightly. "Pretty brave of you, I have to admit. Since I was hoping you would spontaneously combust all through the ceremony"

He looks at you with reverence. As if he has been hiking through the desert and has finally found an oasis. He tucks some of your hair behind your ear. "That would have made things a bit easier, huh?" He laughs, but there is no humor behind it.

You feel a tingling sensation that goes all the way down to your toes at his touch. Your response is automated. Like you are being controlled by someone else. You bring your fingers up to his face and caress his cheek.

He takes in a harsh breath and closes his eye. A single tear escapes and trails down his face. "God, I missed you," he says just above a whisper.

With that, you lose it, and tears start flowing freely.

He opens his eye and lifts his hand to your face. "Can i?" He asks

You nod, and he cups your cheek. He leans in, pressing his forehead to yours. "I don't deserve it... but I need you...please..... give me a chance to be in your life, in any capacity."

"We'll be together forever," Aemond says, sure of his words as you lay in the grass next to each other. "No matter what. You're a part of me now. I can feel it"

You giggle and roll onto your side, holding onto him. "I know. I can't imagine my life without you in it." You shake your head. "That would be just terrible"

"Then let's make a promise," he turns on his side facing you. "No matter what, it will always be me and you. Always. We will always find a way"

"I promise always"

Aemond is holding your cheek and looking into your eyes. Hoping and praying for a response.

"I promise..... always" you say through tears. "We can find a way..... to be there for eachother I know we can"

He hugs you and pulls you tight up against him. He nuzzles his face into your hair and whispers. "Thank you, thank you. You have no idea how much this means to me"

He pulls his head back and looks into your eyes. "I know your with someone. I know you are happy with him. I would never do anything to take that from you. I..... i.... I just need to know you. I need to know who you are now. Who you've become."

With that, the levy finally breaks, and you are no longer talking to your ex-boyfriend who broke your heart and ruined everything but an old friend. A friend you missed dearly. You talk about everything you have done since you stopped talking. About you and Cregan your job. Your hopes for the future. He tells you about him. He tells you about how he has become an adjunct professor and that his love life is non-existent. You joke and laugh, both crying and laughing at the same time.

You get so lost in talking you don't notice the sun going down or the guests clearing out. What finally pulls you out of your conversation is Cregan entering the garden with his hands in his pockets.

Cregan shuffles toward you kicking lightly at dirt and small rocks as he makes his way over.

You stand up from the bench and wipe your face. You have a big smile on your face.

"Hey.... I've been looking for you" Cregan says apprehensively his eyes shifting back and fourth between you and Aemond.

"Sorry.... just out here making peace, " you smile while looking down at Aemond, who is still sitting on the bench.

Aemond stands up and extends his hand to Cregan. "I don't think I introduced myself properly earlier. I'm Aemond brother of the groom"

Cregan takes his hand hesitantly and shakes it. "Cregan...... "

You turn to Aemond and open your arms for a hug. You give him a hug and then pull back taking his forearms in your hands. "We will talk again soon. I want to hear all about that interview for the permanent teaching position"

"Yeah... talk soon" Aemond smiles and makes his way out of the garden. Giving you one last look back before he exits.

"So......" Cregan is looking all around not making eye contact with you.

"Hey," you take his hands "there is nothing to worry about. You were right earlier. I wasn't over it. Not because I want him still but because I never let him apologize"

He looks at you, a small smile creeping onto his face. "And has he?"

"Yes, and oddly enough, I feel a lot better," you say, the relief evident in your voice.

"Good" he says as he wraps an arm around you guiding you out of the garden.

As you walk, you think. You don't know if you and Cregan are going to make it in the long term. You don't know if one day you and Aemond may find your way back to each other. What you do know. Is that you needed this. That for the first time in years there isn't this heavy weight. You know that you can look back on your memories and smile. Knowing that although it didn't last, you were still lucky to experience something so beautiful, so meaningful. You feel lighter. And you know you really are happy now.

Just before you a Cregan exit the garden, you take one last look toward the rosebushes. And smile.

To be added to taglist click here

[hum-suffer]

We'll say hello again (nevermind the chasm between us) 15

Bhairav's birthday starts in a way that any normal day does.

He wakes up at dawn, gets ready, takes a trip to the Mahadev temple in the palace and goes to Princess Gauri's room. Yamuna nods at him in greeting with a tired smirk from her station at his Princess' door.

"A punctual guard, Bhairav. I like your consistency. I was just about getting tired." Yamuna smiles at him and pats his shoulder in what he assumes is a compliment. He's never understood the need to touch others without an objective.

(A voice in his head hisses,"Objective like harm."

He's forgotten what a tender touch means. He only touches to harm. He's a weapon.)

Still, he smiles back at Yamuna,"I don't want Harihar to complain to me about his wife being grumpy because she had to stand too long."

Yamuna shakes her head,"In that case, I'd have killed you for being late before he complained to you."

Bhairav raises a non-believing eyebrow at that. Yamuna rolls her eyes,"Fine. The only reason I wouldn't kill you is because I know that the princess would kill me too."

And Bhairav can kill Yamuna without a delay, is what they both don't say. She's been standing guard at the door for long hours, her mind bored and sight dulled with sudden brightness. He's well rested and ready. He's taller than Yamuna and is habituated to fighting in all circumstances. He has three daggers on him, and a sword that he sharpens every night, before going to sleep.

He can kill. He chooses not to.

(Does that mean he's not even a good weapon?)

Yamuna shakes her head and leaves, cheery and unaware of the dark turn that Bhairav's thoughts had taken. He takes his position by the door and relaxes his stiff posture. The princess would be leaving the room in some time, she wakes up early as well. And she will have to be earlier today, still. To show that governor around the palace.

Bhairav tries but he can't keep his distaste of the man away from his job, his princess. Something in the way the man looks at his princess makes him want to unsheathe his sword. He knows that he thinks out of line for a mere slave, yet, his princess has not only let him be impertinent but also encourages his absymal behaviour.

(He sometimes forgets the chasm that lies between them. He sometimes genuinely thinks that she is his friend. She is his devotion and duty. He is reminded of that everyday as walks with her spine straight and head high.)

Bhairav hears footsteps before he sees him.

Vijay. He's up and about, cheery and ready as he nears the princess' chambers with a spring in his step. Bhairav is nineteen. The same age that Vijay was when he married. And now, Vijay flutters around his princess, a young woman of eighteen, whilst he himself is thirty.

Bhairav wraps his distaste in forceful ignorance and puts it away in a box in his mind. He knows his face is neutral as the man nears and he struggles to keep it so when he presumptuously turns towards the princess' doors and bloody fucking knocks.

His sword is a serpent's tongue on his thigh as he steps between the door and the man and glares at Vijay. From the other side of the door, his Princess answers sharply,"Who dares?"

Vijay flinches at her tone and Bhairav can imagine the sharp way her kohl lined eyes would glance across the room in righteous anger as she notes that it is not Bhairav who has knocked. Bhairav has never received that particular tone, he thinks smugly. His princess somehow always knows when Bhairav is knocking.

(Bahubali doesn't knock. Bhallaldeva knocks once and enters before she can allow him. Bhairav knows.)

(Bhairav knows not that he knocks in a pattern. A two sharp knocks that make four soft thuds as his knuckles as well as his wrist hits the door when he knocks. He has copied his sister's way of knocking since he was but a child. He is unaware that no one else knocks in the same pattern. The perpetual bruise on the side of his wrist is but a footnote in his day.)

"Bhairav?" She calls from the chambers, tone commanding and of the woman who should have been Queen, if Mahishmati was women oriented.

His glare doesn't leave Vijay as he turns sideways and knocks. Instantly, his princess calls him in,"Enter, Bhairav."

He closes the door behind himself because he knows his princess will hate it if some stranger would dare to see her chambers— the rooms which could be called the heart of the palace, in Bhairav's humble opinion.

She's dressed in a light turquoise saree and her hair is open still, slightly damp from her bath, he assumes. She is standing near the hinges of the door, one hand holding the dagger that used to be Bhairav's and the other holding a scroll. She is tense but she relaxes halfway through when he closes the door behind himself.

In this moment, she is the perfect definition of Gauraangi Devi, the Princess of Mahishmati. Fierce, beautiful and clever.

Bhairav bows his head in greeting. "The Western governor is outside, my princess."

"Was he the one who knocked?" Bhairav can hear the dangerous undertone at his audacity and he knows that they're standing right at the door and if Vijay hasn't moved away, he can at least hear the whispers of her words.

Bhairav nods. "I apologise, my princess. He broke protocol and I was not alert enough for that."

He was. He was extremely alert enough. He could have drugged the man and dragged him into the dungeons if he so wished. But there is a part of him, a part that could very well get him killed one day, that wanted his princess to be angrier at the man. Bhairav knows he has added fuel to the fire of her irritation and made it anger.

He thinks it will not take even the whole day for anger to become wrath.

And he wants to rush the process along. He doesn't trust the way Vijay looks at her. She is not a price, but a treasure. Vijay looks at her like a lottery and Bhairav gets the distinct impression that he would treat her no better.

His princess finally relaxes completely and nods with a deep breath. "Tell him to wait," she orders firmly, slipping the dagger into her waistline. Visible and full of warning. She turns on her heel and walks towards the mirror in her room, running a hand through her hair to help dry it as she goes. Bhairav nods and bows, takes a step back before turning his back to her.

(Like he never instantly turns his back towards Durga in her temple.)

"Stop," she calls in a heavy voice. He can feel her frustration as he turns. She purses her lips and sighs, recomposing herself in front of his eyes. When she speaks next, she is the epitome of etiquette. "Tell his Excellency that I will see him in some moments and I regret the tardiness on my part."

Bhairav dislikes that she has to sweeten her words but he nods and takes his leave, eyes never leaving her as he leaves.

Vijay is still at the spot that Bhairav left him at and Bhairav resumes his glare as he relays his Princess' message to the unwanted man. Vijay seems positively smug when Bhairav mentions his Princess' apologies and waves his hand dismissively. "I'm sure she won't do it again," he murmurs to himself as he turns away from Bhairav.

For a delicious moment, Bhairav wants to unwrap his rage and let it kill the presumptuous man like a noose. But he maintains the control that he has always maintained, stoic and proud of his self control. He chooses instead to focus on the governor. Bhairav isn't impressed.

The man may be well built, but he clearly lacks patience as he shifts from one foot to another impatiently. There are no visible weapons on him but the multiple necklaces he wears are extremely easy to use to choke him. Such neglect towards oneself, and Vijay wants to court the princess of Mahishmati. If he can't take care of himself, how will he take care of his princess?

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His princess barely takes five more minutes before she is opening the door, hair braided in a simple side braid that is devoid of any accessories or flowers— because she did not have the time for them.

She nods at Bhairav and passes a more stoic nod to Vijay. "I again apologize for the delay, Mahoday."

"Please, call me Vijay. You are the princess, extremely above my station." He says, a bashful smile on his lips. "And do not fret, your highness. I know that women always take long to get ready."

Bhairav wants to bare his teeth and snarl at the man like an attack dog that many already call him. The man's negative bias over women is already clear and he doesn't deserve to be in the company of his princess. Bhairav keeps an iron grip on his self control and remains stoic.

His princess raises her eyebrows at Vijay almost casually. "Oh?" She says, and Bhairav has known her enough to know much of a mockery that is. Vijay doesn't. "You are experienced with many women, mahoday?"

Vijay shrugs and lowers his head in what seems to be shyness or shame. "I know a few. Your highness, I was wondering where exactly shall we start our tour with?"

"Certainly not the royal wing, mahodaya," she says with an incredulous tone that might seem friendly, when Bhairav knows she is still seething over his audacity to walk into the wing. He makes a mental note to find Katappa and use his help to find who let this man in the royal wing and later relocate that soldier. Preferably to the stables.

Bhairav trails four steps behind them, closer than normal, as his princess leads the man out of the royal wing and makes the first step to the Mahadev temple.

He stays quiet as she speaks of the architecture and the history of the palace, notes the way she runs her fingers in the carvings and knows every anecdote of the palace by heart. Vijay keeps speaking in between her lessons. It is extremely unbecoming and he knows she hates Vijay's behaviour. Bhairav is counting minutes to his Princess' ire increasing.

He isn't disappointed. Mere moments after his princess tells them of a story of a handloom and how the business is now a part of the royal palace, Vijay commits the grave mistake.

"A single saree takes almost six months to be—" his princess is speaking, spouting off facts that she's learnt since she was a child. She sounds professional rather than the animated tone she uses when she's talking to her family or Yamuna or Katappa or Bhairav himself.

Vijay interrupts her. "Is your follower always going to be following us?"

Bhairav can find five things wrong with that singular question and he's a base born soldier. His princess, who excels in etiquette, would find this grievous. She casually looks at Vijay, craning her neck gracefully, hiding her ire that Bhairav can see forming in the tightness of her shoulders.

"Yes, Mahoday. He is my sworn sword. Where I go, he goes." She's making him sound nothing more than a soldier and when she sneaks a glance at him while Vijay shakes his head, Bhairav pouts mockingly at her. It gets her to smile and her shoulders ease down, so he considers it a success.

A momentary success, however.

Vijay turns back to the princess and smiles condescendingly. "Then I must habituate myself with seeing Bhairav, shall I?"

"His name is Bhairavrath." His princess says, her tone chilling. Vijay looks back at Bhairav for a beat before he turns towards the princess, who continues to speak about the handlooms, as if she had not been interrupted at all.

Bhairav applauds her patience.

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Bhairav takes his midday meal with Katappa, who keeps on yapping about the stress he has because of security management on Mahashivratri. Bhairav, who is already eager to get back to his princess, sneaks off a glance at the formal dining area that they can see from the practice yards.

His princess sits stiffly but is flanked by her two brothers. The governor sits across from her, accompanied by her uncle and the Queen Mother takes the seat at the head of the table. Bhairav turns his attention back to Katappa the moment he spies Bahubali beginning to turn his head.

"I don't like the governor's household soldiers either," Katappa complains, sighing heavily,"They seem like the trouble making sort, honestly."

Bhairav remembers another celebration where his princess was attacked. He remembers dark bruises and reactionary tears. "Keep them as far away from the temple as possible." He says sharply.

Katappa nods, understanding him already. The soldier beside him, Bhallaldeva's sworn shield, Veeraraj, raises his eyebrows. "And just what should we tell them for the placement? It's a complete coincidence and not personal resentment?"

"We'll tell them the half truth," Bhairav says, it's obvious and he's irked that neither of those two highly appreciated soldiers know how to lie properly. "These people haven't experienced the Mahashivratri of the capital and don't know how to deal with the mass. It's better their interaction is minimal."

Katappa gives him a look. "Should I be concerned that you're lying so well, Bhairavrath?"

Before Bhairav can say anything, Veeraraj snorts. "He's been serving the princess for years now, Katappa. He ought to have learnt some semblance of diplomacy from her too."

A retort sits hot on his tongue. (Did you learn belittling people from your master, then?) But he keeps it down and closed. "Learning from esteemed people is a privilege." He says, daring the man to say a word about his princess.

Veeraraj takes the hint, as pigheaded as he can be, he knows the reputation Bhairav has cultivated over the years in protecting his Princess, even from words.

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The anger his princess holds calms down over the day.

Vijay doesn't leave her side and that irks Bhairav like a fibre of orange stuck between the gap in his back teeth. He's helpless against the situation but he desperately wishes, for once, that he held more power— if only so he could tear away Vijay from his princess' side and walk beside her.

She speaks confidently as she orders and coordinates with the palace staff. Which flowers to be ordered and their quantity, which temples to decorate and how, which libraries to donate to, which orphanages to develop. She thinks of all that and speaks, head high and shoulders back.

It's evening by the time that the princess walks into the room she uses as her study and sits down, Vijay sits across from her. Bhairav stands behind her, relaxing his stance. His princess begins to find some scrolls but it takes her only three heart beats to freeze and look over at Bhairav in clear confusion.

"Sit down, Bhairav," she says, patting a hand beside her casually, frustration bleeding into her tone as she fights to keep the scrolls on the desk from falling down. Vijay scowls and Bhairav hesitates for a second too long. "Do sit down before I have to use force, Bhairav. And help me arrange these, please."

Bhairav sits down beside her without another word and she starts to organise the rolls into piles. The scrap ones go nearer to Vijay, the completed ones remain in front of her and the incomplete ones land in Bhairav's lap. He knows why they're off the desk, of course. They're various plans of security.

His princess keeps up a steady conversation with Vijay about the West province as she arranges the scrolls, not once speaking about any security details of the Mahashivratri pooja. Vijay is dimwitted enough to seem prideful at the conversation, not knowing that it is a distraction. His princess doesn't need to ask Vijay about the farming state of the West. She already knows. Bhairav himself fetched her the reports only last week.

When Vijay finally leaves the room, dismissed by his princess under the ruse of her needing to find a particular and private tome, her shoulders relax marginally and she leans back on the wall. Bhairav relaxes as well, remaining silent as he sees her ears twitch.

In the years, he's learnt that she has a better sense of hearing than normal people. The sense of smell is not as good, but her hearing is outstanding. He doesn't speak until she looks at him, knowing she's hearing the footsteps of Vijay fade away.

His princess looks at him, suddenly tired, and blinks rapidly before closing her eyes for a long moment. Her lashes touch her skin, and under the setting sun's light that streams through the window, Bhairav can see the wave shaped birthmark on the outer corner of her left eye. She looks like a painting come alive. Bhairav doesn't want to break the silence, lest he disturb her much deserved peace.

"A trying day, is it not?" She finally says, sounding annoyed beyond her years. Bhairav suppresses a smile and nods. She continues,"Well, at least we had some work done. Remind me to talk with Katappa tomorrow, for security, please."

Bhairav notes the thought in the background of his mind and nods. "You have not had the time for your evening fruits, my princess. May I ask for them to be brought here?"

She shakes her head and cracks her knuckles as she sits up, shifting and grabbing something by her foot, on the other end of the table. Bhairav furrows his eyebrows in confusion. It's not like her to be pensive. The day must have really exhausted her.

His princess pulls out an adequately sized wooden box onto her lap and turns towards him. Her eyes sparkle in giddiness as she hands the box to him with the brightest smile he's seen on her face as she wishes,"A very happy birthday to you, Bhairav."

He's shocked. He's never told her or anyone else about his birthday before. He doesn't feel the need to create a fuss over it. "My princess—I— I cannot—"

He fumbles as he tries to speak but she raises her eyebrows in question, that includes a mild threat, and he shuts up. His eyes dart downward out of habit and he again sees the intricately carved wooden box, one that has his name carved in it.

"One should not deny gifts, my dear friend." She says, a tender smile on her face.

(It shocks him to this day, whenever she refers to him as her friend. She's the goddamn princess. And he's just— He's just Bhairav. He's a soldier. He's so far below her station, it's almost funny to call them friends.

A corner of his mind that he always tries to keep silent piques up that he accepted Katappa's offer to apprentice under him so he could be raised in status, even as a soldier. So he could be worthy of her easy friendship.)

The box in his hands is heavy and she gestures impatiently with her eyes for him to open it. He knows he can't deny her anything. With a defeated smile on his face, he opens the box.

Nestled between some jasmine flowers is a tunic of his. It had been lost ages ago, when he had pulled it off in the armoury after a new soldier had swiped his sword particularly harshly and tore the tunic at the shoulder and grazed Bhairav's shoulder enough to draw blood as well. He doesn't have a scar, it wasn't deep enough for one, but he remembers that particular soldier being assigned to someone else from the very next day.

This tunic, beige with rust orange stains at the hem, had been one he wore way too much. One of his most comfortable ones. Finding it again brings a grin to his face.

"Thank you so much for finding this, my princess," he says, grazing his fingers over the neckline. It's then that he notices his name embroidered to the nape of the tunic. He thumbs the red thread almost reverently.

He doesn't know why it affects him so, the simple act of an embroidered name. Perhaps it is because he feels as if none of his belongings are his truly. Perhaps it is because there is nothing truly in his name. But his name in red makes his heart grow twice.

He looks up gratefully at his princess again, only to see her smilingly indulgently. "Oh, you silly man," she chuckles and shakes her head,"Look what's underneath that."

He carefully brings the tunic out of the box and lays it on his unoccupied thigh, careful not to crease it. It looks cleaner than it has ever in Bhairav's possession. He notices the space where it had ripped is as good as new. She fixed it.

(Just like she keeps fixing him.)

Under the bed of Jasmine flowers, shimmers something distinctly blue. He looks at her hesitantly before scooping out the flowers and laying them on the lid of the box.

His breath catches.

It's another tunic. A distinct shade of blue that looks like a sky painted of sapphires. The neckline is softly embroidered with orange and golden thread, looking like vines of a buried treasure curling in the sea of blue. His name is again embroidered at the nape.

Reverently, he brushes his thumb over the material and it instantly feels cool and soft— water made into fabric. It's— Its muslin. It's not even silk. Muslin.

She got him a Muslin tunic.

He looks up at her, startled at so much wealth being spent on him. She smiles and for a moment, it's nervous. "Well," she says,"I know your favourite colour is blue and I intend to never wear a saree gifted by any of my presumptuous suitors. And, forgive me if the missing of your other tunic caused you any grief." Her smile turns shy and she winces slightly,"I had to get your measurements."

She made it.

A gasp buries itself in Bhairav's throat and lungs and he loses all the self control he's been so proud of. He's astonished at her generosity and kindness. The time it must have taken her to sew a whole new tunic would be momental. And Bhairav is always with her in the day, so she must have done this at night. Lost precious sleep and time over making him a birthday gift.

Him, of all people.

His breath hitches and the realisation seems to run into his blood. She cares. And oh, how beautifully. She cares.

Someone cares that he's alive and he's lived one more year.

Mouth open in shock, he stares at the tunic in his hand for five heart beats more. (He can't be too sure of the time, though. His heart is beating too fast.) He looks up, gulps down the shock and awe and lowers his gaze again. "Th—" he notices how hoarse his voice sounds and clears his throat. "Thank you so much, my princess. You did not have to do so much. I'm a servant, I don't—I am not worth the effort."

"Not unworthy. Not to me. You are worth every effort, Bhairav."

____________________________________________________

Worked on this for like two weeks aur abhi abhi almost heart attack aa Gaya Because Tumblr showed my drafts empty 💀💀💀💀 tagging: @alhad-maharani @vijayasena @nerdreader @serenaaaas-world @voidsteffy @allizzprobablynotwell

[mpregandproud]

Isaac II (Part 6)

After the last scare, everyone at home was very attentive to me again. I felt like a king with so much attention. My children brought Isaac and me breakfast in bed, cleaned the house, and were all day long looking after me to provide me with all the attention I needed. Maybe it was too much attention, but I'm not going to complain, it's not every day a man can feel so well taken care of.

Sandra went to live with Cal. The idea was that they would move in together later, but between the pregnancy and giving me some peace and quiet at home, they decided to start their life project together without further delay. The good thing is that since they live in the same town we see them all the time.

Patrick and Isaac are living a kind of honeymoon. The two families know about their relationship and his future fatherhood. After overcoming their initial doubts they are in that phase of unbridled euphoria. You can tell their youth by seeing them continuously snuggled up on each other in a corner of the couch giving each other kisses. It is not surprising to see them spending a night at each other's house. If they were in a normal situation, as parents, we would tell them that they can't sleep at their boyfriend's house, but of course, nothing is going to change anymore.

Three weeks later our older children returned to college. Sandra, on the other hand, opted to take a year off to be a mom. She and Cal are staying in town working at his parents' business, an upscale clothing store. Our youngest children are back in high school. All of them, including Patrick. We had second thoughts about sending him to high school or tutoring him and Isaac, but they both wanted to go on with their normal lives, even though they might have a hard time in school.

I could use a little relaxation at home to re-live this moment with some intimacy. Isaac still didn't want to have sex with me, though. If he was already afraid at the first warning, the last scare made him completely abandon the idea of fucking me again. For him it is more important to sacrifice us until the children are born. “We'll have many years to fuck wildly,” says the idiot. I can't wait, I'm pregnant, hormones are making me horny all day long, I need to fuck once and for all. But nothing, impossible, I had married the most strong-willed man in history.

The beginning of the school year was complicated for Isaac and Patrick. Not a single day went by without some hooligans calling them “faggots” and picking on them for having put on weight. And with the usual unconsciousness of adolescence, or out of sheer pride, both shouted to the four winds that they were pregnant and kissed each other in the middle of the hallway. Be that as it may, that almost suicidal gesture meant that they were never messed with again. In the light of this, these characters only dare with those who are afraid of them. Good for my son. I wish I had been like him when I was young.

At five months pregnant I had an appointment with the doctor for a new ultrasound. I called Dr. Caroline to also treat Sandra, Isaac and Patrick so they could feel more comfortable with someone they trusted.

To reassure them I had them come in before me, but they wanted me to go with them. Sandra went in first with Cal, and on the way out she was thrilled to learn that she was pregnant with a girl. Knowing the history in the family she was really scared that she might be pregnant with multiples, but no, as Dr. Caroline told her, it is not that common for women to have multiples.

Then it was Isaac's turn, so I went with him. When he came into the office he asked if Patrick could come in as well since he was his partner. Dr. Caroline agreed, it wasn't the usual thing to do, but she was fine with them going through this together. They both wanted me to stay too.

Isaac was the first to lie down on the gurney. He was the one with the bigger belly of the two. Even though they were supposed to be 3 months pregnant, he had an obvious belly already. The doctor put the gel on his belly and began to explore him. Isaac was shaking, Patrick took his hand. “Congratulations, boy, you're expecting three beautiful babies. Triplets”, the doctor told him. Isaac's face was somewhere between excitement and shock. Finding out you're expecting three babies at the same time at such a young age has to be overwhelming.

“Three kids? Patrick I'm scared, what are we going to do?” said Isaac. “Don't worry, honey, we'll get through this, and we'll get through it together. We can handle this and so much more”, Patrick told him and kissed Isaac on the forehead. When he sat up and wiped the gel off his belly he melted into a hug with Patrick. As mature as they are, sometimes I forget that they are just two little boys going through an experience that doesn't fit their age.

After a couple of minutes of cheering each other on it was Patrick's turn. The younger of the two didn't have as big a belly as Isaac's, although I'm afraid he won't get as much positive news as Sandra. As Dr. Caroline applied the gel to his belly, Patrick asked her if she thought they might be multiples as well. “Yes, it is very possible. The cases of pregnant men that we have documented, which are not many yet, tell us that the likelihood of having multiples is much higher in men than in women. The scientific community has a theory that having larger body sizes benefits the gestation of more babies at the same time”, Caroline replied. “I see”, Patrick said somewhat contritely. “But we'd better get it out of the way”, said the doctor.

After a few moments the last doubt was cleared up. “Twins, you're expecting two babies, Patrick”, Caroline told him. “Two babies, Isaac”, Patrick was excited and happy. I'm surprised he wasn't scared like Isaac. “Aren't you scared, my love?"”" I asked him. “No, I know it won't be easy, but you and daddy were able to raise twelve babies almost at the same time, and I'm sure Isaac and I will make it being together", he sat up slightly and kissed Isaac on the mouth. “I love you so much Isaac, we're going to make it, don't worry, together we can”, and kissed him again. This scoundrel has forgotten that Caroline and I are here.

When the two boys left the room to wait for me, it was my turn. The doctor confirmed that I was doing well with my pregnancy and that she thought the rest was doing me good to avoid further scares.

“You see, doctor, the rest is doing me good for the pregnancy, but not so much for my personal life. I don't know if you understand me”, I told her.

“You and Isaac haven't had sex all this time?”, she asked me in surprise.

“No, not once. He thinks if we fuck he's going to kill the kids or something”, I explained.

Dr. Caroline laughed. “No, nothing like that. Sex is not dangerous for you. You need to not exert yourself physically, but the hormones that sex would release would do you a lot of good to help you physically in this process. Sex is health, sex is always beneficial, tell Isaac to cut the crap”, and she burst out laughing again.

I picked up Patrick and Isaac and dropped them off at the high school to attend the last classes of the day. I came home and there was my husband teleworking. When I saw him I grabbed him by the shirt and immediately pulled him into bed.

“That's it, let's fuck once and for all!”, I told him so confidently that he was startled. “Dr. Caroline told me that we have to fuck a lot, that it releases substances in my body that will help me cope better with the pregnancy. That you're not going to put the babies at risk. OK?”, I told him.

Isaac let out a snort. “Fuck, why didn't you ask sooner, do you know how hard it's been for me to put up with me all this time? I'd see you around the house with your huge belly, your wide hips, your rounded thighs and that ass that looks like it's begging me to give it love. Let's not wait any longer”, he said.

We sat on the bed and he started to take off my shirt. It had been so long since I had felt this pleasure. His hands running over every millimeter of my pregnancy-tightened skin. He took off my shirt and moved down to my pants, which hid the biggest erection I've ever had. He laid me down on the bed, removed my underwear and took my penis into his mouth. It took me 10 seconds to cum and I still had a huge erection.

He undressed completely. He lay down next to me and asked me to mount him, to put his cock up my ass and ride him. I asked him if he was sure, I no longer weighed the same as I did five months ago, I had already gained 110 pounds since I got knocked up between the pregnancy, fluid retention and all the food my husband and children were feeding me. He didn't hesitate for a moment. He begged me to do it and I did. I felt his skin inside me again. He cum just as fast as I did for the first time, filling me up inside like I hadn't for a long time.

Why did we wait all this time? I don't know, but after today I'm sure it was worth it. But despite the good, I don't plan to wait that long again, we have to make up for lost time.

Go to Part 7

[hymnserendipity]

Break up Geto

Angst, mention of death, no gender mention

Geto has been colder lately, ever since the girl in his custody died he has become very thoughtful and unfriendly despite all your efforts to make him smile. You moved in with him to be close to him and never leave him alone with his thoughts because that's the only thing you can do.

One morning as you woke up alone in bed you reach the living room, seeing him sitting on the couch, not bothering to look at you. “We should end this” Geto says, gazing at the clouds lazily drifting by the window. You’re sitting beside him now, wearing his shirt, shocked. “There’s no reason to delay the inevitable.”

Because any relationship he’s in isn’t meant to last. Not in his line of work. You may as well be dating a dead man walking. He’s clung to you for so long in search for any sense of normalcy. "W-what? Why?" Geto takes a long drag of his cigarette before replying. "You really need me to tell you why?" He knows you're not that naive. That you don't actually need him to spell it out for you. "Yes. Yes, i do." He puts the cigarette out in the nearby ashtray, exhaling a long breath. "You already know why" he says, his voice taking on a tired edge. And you knew you did. "Because I'm a sorcerer. Because I can't offer you anything permanent. Because I can't give you the life you want. You know all this." "I want you. I don't want anything less and anything more." He laughs, harsh and biting. "You're being naive." His gaze flicks over to you, eyes narrowing. "You can't tell me you're perfectly fine with me coming home with bloody clothes. That you feel comfortable with the fact that any given day could be my last."

He exhales, looking away again. "Hell, do you even understand what you're saying? You're really okay with the thought of spending every waking moment in fear about a future you can't control? Being constantly, painfully reminded of how temporary I am?"

"I will never stop thinking of you anyway. I'll make you live every moment, every day, every week. I'll be by your side because you choose to be a sorcerer and i choosed to be with you."

"You-" Geto cuts himself off as he processes your words, stunned by your determination. He knew you'd be stubborn about it, but this was not what he had expected. "Are you hearing what you're saying? Do you have any idea what it even means to date a sorcerer?"

"I love you, Suguru. And i know that you feel the same. I can cross the street and risk it anyway. So what, we shouldnt go other roads just because something can happen?" He growls, frustrated by your tenacity. "It's not the same." He can't believe he even has to explain this. "When you cross the street, it's a calculated risk. You weigh the odds, you assess your surroundings, and you make a choice. But with me? With us?"

He leans in, his eyes intense. "The odds are always stacked against us. It's a matter of when, not if something bad happens. Can you live with that?"

"Yes. And you?"

"You're being foolish" Geto mutters, shaking his head. But he's already wavering in his resolve. He can feel it in the way his heart beats faster in his chest, the way his throat feels tight. He's weak to you, and he can't stand how much you'll mean his downfall.

He closes his eyes. "We'll never have a normal life" he tells you, his voice a ragged whisper. "We'll never have a future. Can you accept that?"

"If we will get married or have kids and one day it will be finished then we will figure it out. But for now i don't want you to tell me to broke up. I want to hear from you if you love me or not. Geto opens his eyes, his gaze fierce. "Of course I love you" he says, his voice rough with emotion. "I've loved you for a long time now. But-"

He sighs, frustrated and conflicted. "You need to understand what you're signing up for. This won't be some fairytale romance. It'll be hard, and it'll be painful, and it'll be dangerous. Can you really handle that?" " I don't want you to face everything alone. I'll be here with you no matter what." Geto tenses as you move to sit on his lap, his instincts telling him to push you away. But he knows that would be pointless. You're here to stay, and he can't find the willpower to make you leave.

"You're a damn fool" he mutters, not quite able to look you in the eye. "You're going to get yourself hurt." "I'll not let you suffer alone." Geto can't help the bitter laugh that escapes him when he hears your words. "You can't protect me" he says, resigned to your stubbornness. "I can take care of myself. That's not the issue here. The issue is you, putting yourself in harm's way for my sake."

He tilts your chin up, forcing you to look at him. "I don't want you to get hurt. I can't let you get hurt." "I'll not end up hurt, i do a normal job" "It doesn't matter" He insists, growing more frustrated by the second. "You're underestimating the danger you'd be in just by being with me. The things I've seen, the things I've done- you have no idea the kind of people I've tangled with. They wouldn't hesitate to use you against me. Can you honestly say you're prepared to face something like that?" "I Won't let you leave me and face everything by yourself, got It?" Geto lets out an exasperated breath, his hand still holding your chin in place. He wants to shake you, to make you understand the implications of your choice. But he knows it's futile. You're as stubborn as he is, and just as determined.

He brings his forehead down to meet yours, his eyes squeezed shut. "You're impossible" he mutters, the last remnants of his resolve crumbling. "How can I possibly resist you when you're this damn stubborn?" He lifts his head back up, staring into your eyes. "You understand what you're signing up for, then? You know this won't be easy. You're prepared to face danger, pain, heartbreak?"

He waits for your answer. He knows what it will be, but he needs to hear it from you. He needs to know that you're not taking this lightly. "Yes, yes, absolutely yes. I want to be by your side." Geto searches your eyes for a long moment, looking for any hint of doubt. But all he finds is certainty. Damned it.

"Fine" he grumbles, pulling you close. "Don't blame me when you eventually regret this."

[waywardxwords]

Chapter 3 - We'll Always Have Atlanta (Taking Chances)

Summary: After a random encounter introduces you to Dean Winchester, you can't shake the magnetic pull you feel towards him. For years, you've felt like everything in your life is under control--a promising career, financial stability and no real responsibilities. Dean's a hunter; it's his life and job. But somehow when you meet, your worlds are flipped upside down and you have to decide if it's a chance worth taking.

Chapter Warnings: Slight language, teeny bit of fluff, some good, old dramatic tension

Pairing: Dean Winchester x female!reader

Word Count: ~3k

[1] [2]

The Blind Pig was a small hole-in-the-wall sports bar, but it sure did have a lot of patrons. Thankfully, your flight had gotten in when it was supposed to without any delays, but that had you settled in at your hotel by five o’clock and ready to meet Dean by six. You had pulled out your laptop to try and get some work done, but your eyes kept pulling to the numbers on the nightstand. 

6:02. And then again at 6:04. By 6:07, you couldn’t take it anymore. So you headed the short distance from your hotel to The Blind Pig and settled on a barstool at the bar. 

“What can I get you?” The bartender interrupted your thoughts as he dried his hands on a small dish rag. 

“A Jack and Coke, please,” you answered in an effort to calm your nerves. “And a glass of water,” so hopefully you wouldn’t get too ahead of yourself. 

The bartender nodded and grabbed a glass. Every time the front door opened, you couldn’t help but turn to see if it was Dean. But it was still only 6:45, and you knew he had a long drive. 

Just as your drink was set in front of you, you heard him clear his throat behind you. “Hey, Atlanta,” the nickname brought a smile to your lips and a shiver down your spine as you turned towards him.

“Dean,” you couldn't help your smile as you stepped down off of the stool and paused for a moment. Without thinking, you reached out and put your arms around his neck in a hug. He hesitated, but only for a moment. His arms snaked around your waist and you relished in the way his hands felt on the small of your back. 

“It’s good to see you,” he seemed honest as the words came from his mouth. You couldn’t place his scent, but you were drawn to it. It was woodsy, almost; as if he had just come from a cabin in the middle of a forest. But it was mixed with the smell of leather and peppermint, like the little round red and white candies. 

“It’s good to see you, too,” you pulled back, though you hadn’t wanted to. 

In pulling away, you were forced to meet his gaze and you found yourself lost in his eyes and the freckles that dotted his skin just under them, just like the first time you met. 

“What’re you drinking?” He slipped the leather jacket off of his shoulders and tugged the sleeves off at his hands as he pulled himself onto the barstool next to you. 

“Jack and Coke,” you answered as you, too, sat back on your barstool. “I don’t usually go the liquor route…” you trailed off a bit. 

“Back to breaking the rules, I see,” he quipped. The familiar smile you had gotten used to the last time you were together found his lips and you couldn’t help but match it. 

“Yeah, well. You’re a bad influence,” you teased back with a slight nudge. 

Even though he had seemed like the Dean you met a month ago, his demeanor shifted for a moment as he took a quick glance around the bar. He seemed to study almost every patron with an intensity that surprised you. What is he looking for? You wondered. Or who?

You cleared your throat as you swirled the amber colored liquid in your glass. When you glanced back up, his gaze was on you again. “Everything okay?” You asked him gently. 

“Oh, yeah,” he shook his head and smiled. “Sorry, just a little distracted.” You were both interrupted when the bartender appeared before you. “Hey, how’s it goin’?” Dean asked as he glanced behind the bar. The bartender nodded in response. “Could I get a Coors, bottle’s fine.” 

“Coming right up,” there was an awkwardness in the air as the bartender walked back to the cooler to retrieve the beer and silence set in.  

“So,” Dean started, his hands folded on top of the bar as he leaned forward a bit on his elbows. “How often do you come to Kansas?”

You took a sip from your drink, hoping for some liquid courage to get you through the normal uneasiness that comes along with getting to know someone. 

“Well, it varies. We just opened an office in Salina, but typically I work from home in Virginia,” you explained. 

The bartender set Dean’s bottle of beer in front of him and he nodded in thanks. “Virginia? I thought you were from Atlanta,” his response even further showed how little you knew about one another. 

“Oh, I was just connecting in Atlanta. Flying out of Richmond is painful, there aren’t really many direct flights,” you found a drop of condensation on the side of your glass and couldn’t help but smooth your finger over the bump of water. 

Dean nodded as he took a pull from his beer. “What do you do for work, again? Project management, right?” It was somewhat impressive to you that he remembered that; but then again, you remembered almost everything he had shared when you met.

“That’s right, for a health insurance company,” you answered. 

“Do you like it?” He asked, as he turned his head a bit to catch your gaze once more. It was impossible to suppress the way you choked on the sip you had just taken of your drink. 

“Like it? Work?” You asked incredulously. Dean seemed a little confused by your answer but smiled anyway. “Does anyone like what they do, Dean?”

He shrugged and took another drink of his beer. “I don’t know, how’s that saying go? ‘Love what you do and you’ll never work another day in your life?’ Something like that.”

“Ha,” you chuckled and took another sip of your drink. As the liquor’s level got lower in your cup, your nerves seemed to go with it. “Yeah, well, that’s not the life we’re living over here. What about you? You love what you do? …traveling, mechanic? Or exterminator, or something?” You smirked, still unsure what that meant exactly. 

Dean nodded with a smile but avoided eye contact. “Yeah, it’s a business that’s been in my family…for a while,” he explained somewhat carefully. Finally those green eyes found your gaze once again. 

“That sounds interesting,” you mused. And it really did. You had never heard of either of those being jobs where one would travel. 

“It’s more on the exterminator side,” he cleared his throat. The look on his face seemed more serious as he explained. “We do the jobs that people really don’t wanna do.” 

You nodded as you tried to follow, but you had zero clue. “I read an article about a massive boa constrictor living in a lady’s attic once. Those kinda jobs?”

“Sort of,” he answered, but didn’t seem willing to offer up more information as he shifted the topic. “Working on cars is just something I do for fun, mostly. But if I can make some money out of it, then great.” 

The sounds of the bar sunk in around you. It wasn’t that you weren’t excited by being near Dean again, because you were. But you couldn’t help how different everything felt. As the feelings swirled around in your head long enough to make a milkshake out of them, Dean caught on. 

“You okay?” When you found his eyes again, you noticed the small worry lines indented just outside them. It took just one look for you to realize he had caught you in the midst of your thoughts. 

“It’s fine,” you smiled, but a quick glance back to your liquid courage gave you what you needed to continue. “It’s just that this feels so different than it did in Atlanta. You seem different.” You emphasized. 

A slight chuckle fell from his lips. He, too, looked back to his beer (though you weren’t sure if it was for courage, or just to gather his thoughts) before he spoke again. “Atlanta was different. Less complicated,” he offered up. 

“But Kansas is complicated?” You asked as you tried to follow. 

“I’m complicated,” he filled in the blanks as his lips found the opening of the glass bottle once more. 

“Ah,” you nodded, as your finger smoothed over another drop of condensation on your glass. “Complicated as in…married? Kids? …ex-convict?” You snuck in the last one with a serious side-eye. 

This time, he couldn’t contain the chuckle and he laughed. “No, no. Nothing like that. Definitely not married, no kids. And no convictions, or charges even, for that matter.” His words eased your thoughts. 

You nodded in hopes that he might continue, but there was a hesitation there. Still, you let it linger. You had learned that sometimes if you let the silence hang open long enough, they might just take you up on it. 

He cleared his throat and emitted a sigh. “Atlanta was…” he paused to consider the word choice. “…amazing. Truly, it was incredible. Life is complicated for me, but in Atlanta, when we met that day,” he shook his head and a smile pulled at his lips once more as he reminisced. “It was like we could be ourselves, without having to look over our shoulders or put up a front.”

You hadn’t really thought about it that way, and now that you did–you wondered if that was why you had been so drawn to Dean in the first place. But it felt bigger than that; different.

“I honestly never thought I’d hear from you again…” his voice dropped a bit softer and his eyes moved back to the bar in front of him. “Why did you call?” He turned back to you once more.

This time, you were in the hot seat. He had every right to ask. “I’m not sure, to be honest,” you started slowly. For a moment, you wondered how much you should open up to him. Again, you didn’t know him. But in the same breath, you felt too tired and too old to be playing games or skirting around difficult conversations. “You know what, Dean?” It was your turn to sigh. “Screw it, full transparency?” You hesitated only long enough for him to nod. “Something about meeting you was so different. Remember how I told you I had all these rules for myself?” He smirked, but nodded once more. “Well, when I was with you–I broke just about all of them. And I know that probably sounds stupid, but that’s a big deal to me. I didn’t even feel bad breaking them. I just felt free.” The discomfort of being completely honest with him settled in the pit of your stomach as you took a breath. Your eyes watched him closely for any kind of reaction.

Dean smiled as he took another drink from his beer. This time, you noticed the smile met his eyes and it sparked the Dean you remembered meeting a month ago.

“That’s a damn good answer,” Dean nodded as he looked back to find your gaze once more. “And for the record,” he nudged you gently. “It’s not stupid.” The feelings of discomfort were replaced once more with bubbles of anxiousness and hope–like maybe you hadn’t made a mistake, after all. The ice clinked around your nearly empty glass. “You wanna take a walk? There’s not much, but there are some cool Christmas lights up in town.” Dean nodded for the door.

Old you would have warned you that this was still not the best idea; would’ve reminded you that you didn’t know Dean, and walking around a strange town at night with a near-stranger was dangerous and dumb. But at that moment, you didn’t care.

“Let’s do it.”

Both you and Dean had your hands shoved in the front of your jackets’ pockets–the chill of the late November air bit at any piece of exposed flesh. 

“Your favorite movie of all time is Speed?” Dean asked incredulously as his breath fogged in front of his face. Your steps were slow and carefree as your eyes wandered the multicolored lights strung around the center of the town.

“I don’t have a favorite movie ‘of all time’,” you air-quoted him, but quickly made the decision to return your hands to your coat pockets. “It’s just a good one! Don’t you remember the days they played that movie on FX over and over and over again on weekends? It was always on!”

Dean shook his head with a laugh. “I guess so, I don’t really remember. I didn’t watch a whole lotta TV growing up.” He answered. You noted that, for maybe a future question.

“Alright, alright,” you moved on with a roll of your eyes. “Favorite band?” 

“I don’t have just one,” he answered quickly. Another mental note that the man must love music and know his favorites. “Metallica, AC/DC, Led Zeppelin,” he said. “Those are some of the best.”

“Those are some good ones,” you hummed as you continued your walk. “I grew up on country and alternative rock, mostly. But I sure did love the boy band era.” The look on his face caused you to laugh. “Oh, come on. What girl in the 90s didn’t?! New Kids on the Block, Backstreet Boys, N’SYNC…”

“Okay, okay,” he waved you off. “Enough of that crap. I haven’t listened to any of that shit so far, not happening now.”

Your feet stopped moving. Dean slowed to a stop before he turned to look at you, that some look of concern across his face.

“You’ve never listened to any of the boy bands?!” Your voice practically squeaked. Dean rolled his eyes and turned back to walk ahead. You hurried your steps to catch up to him, and without thinking, you looped your arm through his. “Oh, we gotta change that.”

“Sweetheart, did you not hear the part where I said it’s never gonna happen?” A playful smile turned up one corner of his lips as he looked down at you. In your closeness, you realized how tall he really was–at least six feet–and your throat suddenly felt very dry.

“Never say never, De,” your voice was soft but you matched his smile. As you looked back to the path in front of you, you realized the two of you had circled back to the Blind Pig parking lot. You cleared your throat and pulled your arm from his. He blinked a few times and cleared his own throat before he glanced down to his boots and then back up at you.

“You, uh, you got a rental car? Or need a ride?” His eyes grazed over the parking lot filled with ten or so cars. 

“Yep, that’s mine there,” you pointed out the red Honda CR-V. Dean made a face again with a slight scrunch of his nose, which made you laugh. “I know, I know. It’s a soccer mom’s dream.” You rolled your eyes. “What do you drive, anyway?” You folded your arms across your chest and prepared to tease him for rocking a beat up truck or his work van.

Dean, proudly, leaned against a sleek black car that looked classic and well-kept. It was one of those moments you thought you might have to pick your jaw up off of the pavement as your eyes widened.

“This is your car?” You asked in amazement as you took a step closer.

“Hell yeah, that’s Baby,” he gleamed as his eyes traveled over the shiny black coat that almost glistened in the glow of the streetlights.

“You would name your car,” you laughed softly as your eyes followed his gaze. You did feel a tiny bit impressed, though.

“Did you just try to offend me?” He narrowed his eyes at you with a smile. “Ain’t gonna work, sweetheart. This car is my pride and joy.” He looked back at you as he leaned against the driver’s side door. 

“It’s a beautiful car, Dean,” your eyes danced over the Impala before the wind blew gently against the side of your face once more and caused you to shudder. A quick glance to Dean realized he had felt it, too. “Thanks,” you started softly. “I appreciate you driving all this way to see me.”

He took a careful step closer so he was just in front of you. Suddenly, you didn’t feel as cold anymore. “Thanks for calling,” his voice reverberated in your ears as he spoke. You enjoyed how his voice was seasoned–gruff and experienced–but still had a way of making you feel warm inside. “How long are you in town for?” His eyes darted to your hairline and, without processing, he reached up to brush back a strand that had blown free from your hair tie. You followed his eyes and shivered again.

“I have some meetings tomorrow, then I leave early Wednesday morning,” you answered.

Without hesitation, he spoke again. “Can I see you again?”

A smile stretched across your face–one that you were sure met your eyes. “Are you asking me out on a date?” You bit down and pulled your bottom lip between your teeth.

He couldn’t help but smile. “I just might be.”

“Hmm,” you hummed, somewhat teasingly. “I think I could agree to that. But one condition.” Dean nodded with a slight roll of his eyes, playfully. “No more awkward first-time-seeing each other shit. I really had fun with you. I felt like we were in Atlanta all over again.” 

Dean nodded with a quick glance down to his boots, then back at you again. “Yeah, okay, I can make that deal.”

You put your hand out in front of you for Dean to shake on it. Dean took one glance down at your hand, but then back at your face with a small smirk. Slowly, but strategically, he leaned down and captured your lips with his in a soft, sweet kiss.

“See you tomorrow, Atlanta,” he murmured as your lips parted.

A/N: Thank you so much for all the likes, comments and reblogs on the last chapter! It was very much appreciated. Thanks for reading, I hope you enjoy chapter 3! :)

Chapters will be posted on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Preview of the next chapter:

A quick glance at the clock on the wall made you inwardly groan–how could it only be 11:23 in the morning? Work days were known to drag on, but this was overkill. You figured it might have something to do with the fact that you were just hours away from seeing Dean again. It had taken you far too long to fall asleep the night before; you couldn’t stop thinking about that damn kiss.

The way his lips felt against yours…the way it made you feel inside…

The buzz from your cell phone distracted you and shook you from your thoughts.

Dean

Hey, Atlanta.

You didn’t think you’d ever get tired of the nickname. Another buzz caught you off guard.

Dean

Or should I say, Hotlanta?

The text made you laugh out loud, which would have been fine had you been alone somewhere. Instead, colleagues that you hardly knew because you worked remotely all turned to look at you.

“Sorry about that,” you said softly as you excused yourself from the cubicle you had borrowed for your time in the office. You stood in the hallway as you typed out a response.

Hi, Dean…you’re ridiculous, but that still made me laugh anyway.

You nibbled on a pesky hangnail that had formed on your thumb as you waited for his text back.

Dean

I do what I can. You still up for dinner tonight?

You hurriedly typed back before you hit ‘send’ and shoved the phone in your back pocket to head back to your desk.

100% yes! I can leave here at 4, but I’m driving to you this time. Just send me the address and I’ll meet you there!

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[themerrywhumpofmay]

Merry Whump of May

Spring 2023 Prompt List!

It's May, everyone!! Due to personal and technical difficulties, we're getting the list to you DAY ONE. WOW!

So sorry for the delay, but we have every confidence that despite this short notice, you'll all be able to put out some amazing work this year!

Without further ado, welcome to The Merry Whump of May!

Text ID:

Merry Whump of May

Spring 2023

A month-long whump writing event by @wormwriting and @painsandconfusion.

Extemporaneous style this year-!!

Write, draw, or otherwise create content based on the daily prompts! Participants and completionists will receive badges of honor for their work at the end of the month.

Create original content or fanfiction, all is welcome!

Rules

Tag each day's post with #themerrywhumpofmay, any necessary content warning (eg: #knife), and the day in the following format: #mwmday1)

Adult topics are allowed, but must be well tagged. Send a message to @themerrywhumpofmay if you'd like a second opinion.

Be kind, have fun!

Prompts:

Day One - “No pain, no gain.”

Compass

Haphephobia

Kitchen

Day Two - “Need a ride?

Wrench          

Paranoia         

Club   

Day Three - “You're not looking so hot.”

Lightbulb

Tension

Alleyway

Day Four - “Two birds, one bullet.”

Chess Pieces

Stubborn

Tower 

Day Five - “Do unto others as you would bla bla bla...”

Bow and Arrow

Stalking

Cavern

Day Six - “It's a long story.”

Knife Handle

Gagged

Under the table

Day Seven - “Write what you know.”

Box

Magic

Cell

Day Eight - “Did you read the fine print?”

Circle 

Blinded

Field

Day Nine - “We'll burn that bridge when we get there.”

Collar

Lost

Roof

Day Ten - “Hit the hay.”

Key

Forgetting

Warehouse     

Day Eleven - “Ready set go!”

Plastic bag

Overheating

Restaurant

Day Twelve - “Tabled for Later.”

Thumbtack

Panic attack

Ballroom        

Day Thirteen - “You've made your bed, now bleed in it.”

Sander

Found

Safe Place

Day Fourteen - “Well, well, well...”

Barbed Wire   

Starvation

Drain

Day Fifteen - “The power of god and anime”

Hammer

Over-Exhaustion

Hammer

Day Sixteen - “Take a break.”

Branding Iron

Moonlight

Cemetery       

Day Seventeen - “Going down in flames.”

Pole

Regret

Fireplace

Day Eighteen - “No use crying over spilled blood.”

Cage

Claustrophobia

Ship

Day Nineteen - “Apples and oranges.”

Chainsaw

Surprise

Home Base

Day Twenty - “A taste of your own medicine.”

Zip ties           

Bleeding out  

Office

Day Twenty-one - “Devil's advocate.”

Tome

Desperation

Hiking trail.

Day Twenty-two - “You can lead a bitch to water, but you can't make them drink.”

Origami

Amnesia

Attic   

Day Twenty-three - “Good things come to those who wait.”

Nine-inch-nails

Isolation

Creepy basement

Day Twenty-four - “Bent out of shape.”

Tent Spike

Dragged

Wrong place, wrong time

Day Twenty-five - “It takes two to tango.”

Hot coffee

Doubt

In line

Day Twenty-six - “Hammer time.”

Pocket watch  

Itchy

Waiting room

Day Twenty-seven - “Second mouse get the cheese.”

Knife

Rug burn

Skyscraper

Day Twenty-eight - “A picture's worth a thousand words.”

Chair

Paranoia

Backseat         

Day Twenty-nine - “Lost and Found

Blowtortch

Frostbite

Lake

Day Thirty - “Rain check.”

High heels

Strained

The backroom

Day Thirty-one - “Thin ice.”

Lighter

Chronic pain

Dead end

Alternative Prompt List

Titles  

“Questions? Comments? Concerns? Complaints?”

“Time dies when you're having fun.”

“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush.”

“Can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs.”

“Matchmaker, matchmaker, make me a match.”

Items                                      

Wine Glass

Hydrochloric acid

Magnet

Teacup

Wire

Conditions

Sensory deprivation

Blindfolded

Acrophobia

Failed escape

Distress

Locations

The Middle of Nowhere

Forest

Void

Sidewalk

Shortcut

[sunshine-overload]

[BSTS] Main Story S5Ch8 'Long Night' - Part 2

part 1

Chapter 2

-rehearsal room-

akira: .......

takami: What's wrong, Akira?

akira: Nothing. Was just thinking that Saki-chan hasn't visited for a few days now. 

takami: That's true, maybe she's been busy. Does it discourage you that she's not here?

akira: Obviously. I want her to see how hard I'm working. Have there been any updates on Sin? You ran into Unei on the way here didn't you?

takami: I didn't speak with him directly but it appears Sin has been discharged from the hospital.

akira: Oh? And what about Kokuyou?

taiga: I still haven't been able to get in contact with him. Feels like he's ghosting me.

takami: It's possible he's shut his phone off for personal reasons.

akira: Personal huh...

-sin walks in-

sin: Can you hear the footsteps in the night?

taiga: Woah!? Sin is here!

akira: You sure got here quick. I heard you got caught up in a car accident?

sin: ...I'm fine. I just took a little knock to the head.

taiga: That doesn't sound like nothing.

sin: There were no problems found when they examined me.

akira: .......

takami: You sure got caught up in an unlucky situation. Have you spoken with the person who injured you?

sin: The shadow does not possess a name.

takami: I see, so you don't know who it was...

taiga: So it was a hit and run? You seriously need to be more careful.

akira: Well, what matters is that he's ok. Now it's just Kokuyou we need to worry about... Where the heck is he?

sin: All that can be found inside the empty box is dusk. Before night falls you must block out the light.

akira: I have no idea what you're saying man.

taiga: I feel so restless, a Starless without Kokuyou in it is so weird.

takami: True... On the off chance he doesn't show up I think we should prepare a back up plan. Akira, do you have any ideas?

akira: Without our leader I'm the highest in command yeah? I know that already. We'll proceed with a version of the show with me as the centre. Find someone to fill up our missing spot.

takami: I've already asked Kasumi to help us. Mokuren gave their consent as well.

akira: Then we're already all set? You're so capable it's almost annoying y'know.

—-end

-

Chapter 2 extra

-starless hallway-

takami: Kei, have you heard that we haven't been able to contact Kokuyou?

kei: I have. If W has a missing man do you intend to borrow a substitute from another team?

takami: Worry not, we've already asked someone. Kasumi will be filling in if Kokuyou does not show up in time.

kei: Then why are you speaking to me?

takami: I was just wondering if you're also in a bit of a pinch. Your mind is elsewhere isn't it?

kei: It is none of your concern. You should focus on your own performance.

-starless office-

akira: How mean can a person be? How did Mokuren even eat that many?

takami: What happened?

yakou: It seems that Akira bought some protein bars but Mokuren ate every single one of them.

mokuren: Obviously. Think of it as payment for me letting you borrow Kasumi.

akira: Aren't those completely unrelated matters?

takami: We're thankful for Kasumi's help though. This way we don't need to delay and can proceed with rehearsals.

yakou: Still, it's pretty unusual that Kokuyou hasn't shown up or contacted us yet.

takami: Indeed. We can't get a hold of him at all.

mokuren: It can't be helped, want me to replace him instead of Kasumi?

takami: Someone like you wouldn't be able to sub in for Kokuyou. It's true that you used to be a W member too but you're in a league of your own.

mokuren: It's not like you to try and flatter me, Takami. You owe me one.

takami: It's not flattery, I'm being serious. And I understand that we're in your debt.

yakou: 'Abandon the Dawn' is the name of your new show huh. I think Kasumi will be able to blend right in.

mokuren: Hopefully it interferes with his C lessons. That way he'll require make-up training.

yakou: You shouldn't be saying that, Mokuren. Kokuyou isn't here so please cooperate.

mokuren: You think I care? I've done my part in helping them already.

yakou: So, if Kokuyou does return, will you have him take Kasumi's place?

akira: Eeeh, nah. We'll just have Kasumi perform the whole run.

yakou: Well, I have no complaints as long as everything goes well. It looks like it will be a success at least.

mokuren: You're lucky this is happening while the owner isn't here. He'd be making a fuss about disbanding their team right now.

yakou: I can't deny that... Still, I wonder what happened to Kokuyou. Is he sick? Has anyone checked his apartment?

takami: No, I haven't been to check. Could anyone lend me his address?

akira: Don't worry, I'll go check on him. I'll leave it to you to teach Kasumi the choreo, Takami.

—end

-

Chapter 2 SideA

-starless balcony, evening-

kei: ....... (sigh)

takami: Kei, if you're looking for something then I think I could help you.

kei: No need.

takami: Stealing back what's been stolen is just a simple game of cat and mouse.

kei: And so what if it is? I am just doing what I must.

takami: It's just like you to be persistent . Then, how about you utilise my help?

kei: Why would I do that?

takami: Because I can prepare what it is that you need. For example, I could prepare a perfect replica, that would be useful to you, would it not?

kei: I refuse. I have no intentions of being used by you.

takami: I'm doing no such thing. All I want from you is information. About the Miki-san's and Iwami-san, and various other things.

kei: You really think I'll agree to that? 

takami: I'm up for further negotiations whenever. Kasumi interrupted us last time after all.*

kei: You mean back during W's 'BLACKSTAR' performance? It's too late for that now.

takami: Not for us it isn't. I'd like to avoid any unnecessary confusion.

kei: So you're trying to gain my gratitude?

takami: Who knows... It's just, because of the rumours spreading about the owner's absence, the power balance of this area is in danger.

kei: So you're saying continuing this farce of a play is your keeper's wish?

takami: —So, what will you do?

kei: It's obvious what my highest priority is. For now I shall dance to your tune.

takami: I wasn't expecting you to agree. In that case, negotiations are complete. I'll let you know when things have been prepared.

-takami leaves-

kei: ...He's annoying to deal with. I'd rather not associate with him, but I have no choice.

-kei's phone rings-

kei (on phone): It's me. What is it? 

I'm not happy about it, but not knowing Kokuyou's location is the only way to protect her. It's only for a few days, I can put up with leaving Saki to him for that long.

What? But that place is close to... Why would he go there, of all places…

kei (on phone): No, for now it is still safer than her being here. Understood, I'm grateful for the update.

-kei hangs up-

kei: Birds are suited to the freedom of the sky... Will I allow it to be swallowed up by the shadow of fate?

—end

*Takami is referencing the talk in S2Ch6 - SideB 2 extra

-

Chapter 2 SideA extra

-behind starless, day-

hinata (on phone): Hello~ It's me. Yeah, that's right, I went and checked a locker at the train station for him. He's a real slave driver~ Not to mention when I finally found the right locker it was empty! Like, why did he send me there if nothing was inside? It doesn't make any sense~ Also the other day he randomly told me to go and search for Sin and—

-kei appears-

hinata (on phone): Oh, sorry, I gotta go. Someone that's hard to deal with just showed up.

kei: Chatting away on the phone during your work hours, you truly are taking your obligations lightly.

hinata: I'm on my break! I'll head right back so don't get on my case about it. And so? You got business with me or something? I'm not in the mood for a lecture.

kei: You were the first to discover Sin after he was injured, weren't you, Hinata?

hinata: What? You want to talk to me about Sin? I was told by Iwa-san to look for him... It was awful, he was bleeding everywhere and I had to call an ambulance.

kei: I see. So there were no other witnesses and you were the one who claimed he'd been in an 'accident'. There's no way to prove that is the truth.

hinata: What do you mean by that?

kei: Oh I wonder. You above all should know best what I'm insinuating. I'm just wondering if the theory that the first person on the scene is the most suspicious holds any weight.

hinata: W-wait a minute, what are you saying? You don't think I did something do you? Go ask Sin yourself, he'll tell you the same thing! It's the truth!

kei: Indeed, I have already asked him. He told me that you saved him.

hinata: Then... You suspecting me was just a bluff? Tch, don't piss me off, you're messed up in the head, you know that?

kei: I simply wanted to hear your understanding of the situation. Return to your work.

hinata: Oh shut up, you idiot! You're so freakin' annoying!

-hinata leaves-

kei: Setting him up as the first one on the scene and sending him to pick something up at the train station lockers... I wonder if Hinata himself even realises the extent in which he is being used.

—end

-

Chapter 2 SideB

-old messy house, night-

kokuyou: ...It reeks of mould.

saki: This place is...

kokuyou: Relatives of mine own this house. When I was a kid they looked after me for a period of time. After my grandparents died my relatives moved away and no one has lived here since. Being here again is nostalgic but this place is a complete mess. Come on in, there's still space to move around.

saki: Please excuse me.

kokuyou: Sorry about the mess. If anything gets in your way just push it aside. It's still dark out, what time is it— Right, we left our phones behind. I can't even check the time.

saki: We can't check the news or anything either.

kokuyou: I wonder if there's anything in my jacket pocket... My lighter and... This isn't gonna be useful.

saki: What is that?

kokuyou: It's an mp3 player. I put our new show's song on it.

-koku starts playing 'abandon the dawn' instrumental-

saki: (This song...)

kokuyou: .......

saki: Um, Kokuyou-san, I really am sorry for getting you involved in this.

kokuyou: There's no need for you to apologise. This isn't anything new and it's not like I could just leave you be.

saki: But your show is starting in a few days... I know, why don't you let me stay here for a while? You can head back to Starless and prepare for your show.

kokuyou: You want me to leave you on your own? Don't be ridiculous, we’re past the point of going back now.

saki: I don't want to cause you any more trouble than this.

kokuyou: Sin told me to hide you away for a week. So that's exactly what I'm gonna do. A week means I should make it back in time for the opening show. Things should calm down by then. Team W has Akira and Takami, they can handle themselves. 

saki: But you need to rehearse too, Kokuyou-san. Otherwise you won't be able to synchronise with the others.

kokuyou: Don't tell me you're worried about me messing up. I don't need any advice on that front. So long as the Starless stage exists, I'll be there.

Feel free to use the house however you like. Don't mind me. You're probably still on edge but try and get some rest. You're tired, so don't go overthinking things. I'm gonna go check something out back, don't go outside.

—end

-

Chapter 2 SideB extra

-kokuyou's relatives house, evening-

saki: Nn...? I fell asleep…

saki: (What time is it...? Looks like it's evening... I wonder where Kokuyou-san is.)

kokuyou: You awake? I didn't think you'd crash right here, I even cleaned up a room further in the house for you.

saki: Sorry, it wasn't intentional...

kokuyou: It's fine, you must've been really tired.

saki: Did you sleep too, Kokuyou-san?

kokuyou: Yeah, just a bit. I checked out the area too. There's a small strip of shops nearby, so if you're hungry we can grab something to eat. There's a public bathhouse there too. The shrine behind the house hasn't changed either. This place really is just as it was in the past.

saki: Oh right, you said this was your relative's place didn't you? Did you come here to play when you were little?

kokuyou: Yeah, something like that. Since I haven't been here for a while I figured we'd be safe coming this far. It doesn't seem like we've been followed but don't go wandering off on your own just in case.

saki: .......

saki: Is there nothing that you want to ask me?

kokuyou: If I did, would you even have any answers?

saki: That's...

kokuyou: I know that you don't know what's going on either. So asking anything would be pointless and only trouble you, am I right?

saki: Sorry...

kokuyou: There's nothing you need to apologise for. I've told you this already. Even if you had answers, you're not the only one who wouldn't talk about it.

saki: What do you mean?

kokuyou: Those at Starless are all the same way. If you ask them anything they're not the type to give you an honest answer. So, don't worry about it.

saki: ...Thank you.

kokuyou: Anyways, did you want to step out for a bit? We can go buy something to eat.

saki: —Um, Kokuyou-san.

kokuyou: What is it?

choice: I want you to get back in time for the performance / thank you for helping me

>thank you for helping me

saki: Thank you so much for helping me.

kokuyou: Don't sweat it. As if I could just leave you be in that situation. Now go and get yourself ready to go out. Your bedhead is pretty impressive.

saki: Uwah, I need a mirror! I'm borrowing the bathroom!

-saki runs off-

kokuyou: ...I'll have to do something about this.

—end

>I want you to get back in time for the performance 

saki: I want you to make it back in time for your performance.

kokuyou: You... —Understood, thanks. Now go and get yourself ready to go out. Your bedhead is pretty impressive.

-

Chapter 3

-rehearsal room-

akira: Aaand we're all done. As always you're quick on the uptake huh, Kasumi?

kasumi: Ahaha, I'm glad you think so. Maybe it's thanks to the fact you're the centre.

takami: We've gotten used to the new centre as well. The show has taken shape.

taiga: As expected Akira's version of Tristan is way too flashy. I could never~ 

akira: I'm always giving it my all y'know. Man~ I wish Saki-chan was here, I wanted to sing my words of love to her.

taiga: She hasn't been visiting recently. I guess she must be busy.

takami: I heard she hasn't been feeling well. Kei was worried about her.

akira: Wha, I hadn't heard that. Is she ok?

takami: I don't know the details, but I hope she feels better soon and is well enough to come visit again.

kasumi: Same~ I'd love for her to come and see the new show. And if possible, I hope it can be performed by the whole of W. So... Any updates on Kokuyou?

taiga: Nope. I think his phone battery is dead.

takami: Didn't you go check his apartment, Akira? 

akira: I did, but his motorbike wasn't there and I couldn't find him anywhere either.

sin: If the evening is destined to become darkness then the curtain of the night becomes meaningless. Furthermore, a dull blade cannot cut through the stars. That is all there is to it.

takami: It's not easy to be optimistic in a situation like this.

akira: Don't overthink it. We just gotta do what we gotta do.

taiga: A performance without Kokuyou huh... I never even considered it being a possibility. Has W ever put on a show without him before?

akira: Nope. Not that I know of at least.

taiga: I see, I'm a little worried what the audience's reaction will be like.

akira: I told you, we just gotta do it. Quit your mumbling.

taiga: Huh? Ah... Got it, sorry.

kasumi: Ahaha, Mokuren always says that if you're worried then it means you haven't practised enough, Taiga~ Let me help you with a Team C style intensive training course.

taiga: What? Hold up, since when were you this sort of character? No way!

kasumi: Can we start over from the top, Akira?

akira: ...Yeah, sure. The overall level of our performance is fine but if you're concerned about Taiga then let's focus on him.

taiga: Give me a break here!

sin: The diffused reflection of the light produces a false image. All we can do is follow the winding spiral as it disappears down into the void.

takami: No matter what happens, I just hope this is put an end to quickly.

—end

-

Chapter 3 extra

-starless restaurant area-

heath: Gui, you're acting differently from usual.

gui: ...Am I?

heath: The colour of your aura is wavering. Did something happen?

gui: ...No.

heath: It wavered again. Is this about Saki? It is, isn't it? I haven't seen her here in a few days now and she always visits a lot, especially before a show starts. If you know something then tell me. Don't lie.

gui: I can't tell you.

heath: Oh you ‘can't’? I see what's going on here. Fine, I'll go and ask Kei then.

-heath leaves-

gui: Me too... I want to know what's going on as well.

-gui leaves-

-starless backrooms-

heath: Hold it, Kei. Have you put her in danger again? Where is Saki? Tell me where she is this instant.

kei: Calm down, Heath. I am aware that you currently do not trust me.

heath: (coughing fit)

gui: Heath...! Heath, breathe. Slowly, in, out, in, out...

kei: Are you here to question me too, Gui?

heath: (coughing) ...Sorry, I'm fine, Gui.

kei: I understand your concerns fully. However, there is no need to worry as currently she is safe. In order for her to avoid any further danger, she has left the immediate vicinity.

heath: ........

heath: Is she truly safe?

kei: Yes. There is someone with her to protect her. And that is neither you nor I.

heath: And can you trust this person?

kei: ...Somewhat.

heath: Why... why can't it be me? Why the fuck are you standing around here instead of helping her?

kei: Because I must be here in order to protect her. Doing so is the very reason for my existence. Gui, look after Heath. Search within yourselves for your own reasons to be.

gui: Ok.

-kei leaves-

heath: ...Godammit. Why am I always so powerless?

—end

-

Chapter 3 SideA

-break room-

akira: Thanks, Kasumi. You've really saved our asses this time around.

kasumi: Oh no, it's no problem. I'm just happy to be useful. But... Don't go overdoing it, Akira.

akira: Hm? What's this? Are you looking out for me? If so I'd rather it be a cute girl that's fawning over me.

kasumi: Ahaha, noted~ Well, I'll see you in our next rehearsal then.

-kasumi leaves-

akira: .......

-nekome appears-

nekome: That was one one big sigh. You must've been working hard, you alright?

akira: Well I'm not alright anymore. I'm not in the mood to talk to you right now.

nekome: Looks like I caught you at a bad time~ Though that's to be expected, your team was suddenly thrown for a loop after all.

akira: Thrown for a loop huh... Funny hearing you of all people say that. By the way, Nekome, you wouldn't happen to know anything would you?

nekome: About what?

akira: Like why someone would suddenly disappear, or where they would go if they decided to. You have experience in those areas after all, could you give me some advice?

nekome: Hahah, that's a tough question. Kokuyou and I are completely different too.

akira: Completely different? What do you mean by that?

nekome: I mean that we value and prioritise different things. The things that we can't abandon.

akira: I don't get what you're trying to say.

nekome: Hey, Akira, do you have any spare change on you?

akira: Don't extort me, you haven't even answered my question. 

-nekome buys something from the vending machine-

nekome: Hahaha, sorry. To be honest though, Akira, I don't know either. So, I'm sorry for all the trouble I must’ve caused~ It even bothered you, right?

-nekome leaves-

akira: Look at that, he had plenty of change on him. Why is he like this...

—end

-

Chapter 3 SideA extra

-police station-

kei: The person who assaulted you has been arrested. However he was merely a thug working under someone else's orders. By the way, Hinata mentioned that he was told by Iwami to go and look for you... He didn't appear to have any intention to hide that fact either. 

sin: He is using his pawns to his convenience. Those who know nothing are easier to control. Anything else?

kei: The item that was stolen from you had already been passed off to a different courier. However the ghost is not on the move. Before long, the one in possession of the card shall also be arrested.

sin: Meaning it has not reached that man's hands yet?

kei: Those who already work for money are easily convinced by more money.

sin: I see. So you're just waiting for them to fall into your trap. Alas, it is clear who is pulling the strings behind this. We should prepare our next move.

kei: I made a deal with a faithful dog. His keeper is preparing to go on the hunt.

sin: You made a surprisingly bold choice.

kei: It was necessary to assure the bird's freedom.

sin: So you're willing to get your hands dirty if it's for her sake. That is just like you.

kei: It's still not enough. The shady groups around here are already looking for new positions.

sin: Hm, it's bothersome. Has news of Haseyama's absence gotten around?

kei: The cover up has reached its limit. 

sin: The pests infecting the nearby area should have been exterminated though.

kei: It's still not enough. That is why I must immediately change my approach.

sin: Meaning that taking back her card is the top priority?

kei: Exactly that.

—end

-

Chapter 3 SideB

-kokuyou's relative's house, day-

saki: (Today marks the end of the week Sin-san told us to run for... Tomorrow will be the opening show of Team W's performance. I wonder if Kokuyou-san could get there in time if he went alone on his bike? I could take the train...)

saki: ...Hm? Where is Kokuyou-san actually? Maybe he went outside.

-time pass, roadside path, day-

saki: ...He's not here either. I wonder where he went.

-screen glitches-

saki: (W-what was that? For some reason... this path feels familiar—)

kokuyou: What are you doing out here, Saki? I told you not to wander around by yourself.

saki: I'm sorry. I just wanted to check how you were.

kokuyou: I was visiting the shrine out back... Sorry for leaving you on your own.

saki: No, it's fine. I also— Huh?

-screen shakes-

saki: (Ngh... My head hurts... Why...?)

kokuyou: ...We've had a conversation like this once before, haven't we?

saki: Once before... With me?

kokuyou: I don't know. I just remember when I was a kid, I was waiting for somebody here. Tch, I can't recall anything else.

saki: (Huh...? This has... Happened before...)

kokuyou: Anyways, let's head back. You look pale.

saki: I'm fine, more importantly, Kokuyou-san— Back then, why did you come here?

kokuyou: Back then? What are you talking about?

saki: (Why did I ask that... What ‘back then’ am I even talking about?)

-screen glitches-

saki: Sorry I... I don't feel so good after all...

kokuyou: You ok? You look awful, c'mon let's head back.

saki: But... Your show...

kokuyou: That's not important right now. We're heading back for now, you can say your piece later.

-quick flashback appears-

saki: (My head hurts so bad... It's no use, I can't even think straight anymore...)

kokuyou: Don't overdo it, here, lean on me, let's go.

saki: Ok... Sorry for the trouble.

kokuyou: I told you already, we’re past the point of going back now. Just stop thinking about it.

saki: (Stop thinking...)

-saki closes her eyes-

—end

-

Chapter 3 SideB extra

-kokuyou's relative's house, evening-

saki: Nn… Hm...? I'm...?

saki: (This is... Kokuyou's relative's place...?) 

kokuyou: You awake? Feeling any better?

saki: Kokuyou-san... What time is— The sun's already setting!?

kokuyou: Yeah.

saki: (If it's evening then... No but, if he leaves right now he could still make it.)

saki: Kokuyou-san, if you leave now you'll be able to make it back in time for tomorrow's opening show.

kokuyou: And leave you all alone after you just collapsed on me? If I felt like leaving you I would have done so already.

saki: ...I'm sorry... I really am...

kokuyou: Quit worrying yourself over it, I can afford to miss one show.

saki: Kokuyou-san...

kokuyou: Team W isn't just me. The rest of my team can manage. Akira's got his voice, Takami can organise... Recently Taiga has even been proving himself. And lastly there's Sin. He's surprisingly good at creating that trademark W atmosphere. He may have been injured but that won't stop him. That's just the kind of guy he is.

saki: ...You have a lot of faith in them all, don't you?

kokuyou: I wouldn't say that... It's more that I just know how those on my team think. So don't look so down, none of this is your fault. 

kokuyou: —Five years ago, when I first met you, you looked like any other regular woman just living her life. Even now, I still just see you as a normal woman. Except, you've been targeted by some suspicious group that I don't know and you've even been kidnapped before. Do you really think I'm heartless enough to just leave someone like you to handle all that on your own?

saki: Kokuyou-san...

kokuyou: It's fine, get some more rest. You still look pale.

saki: This is all my fault... I'm so sorry...

-saki falls back asleep-

kokuyou: ...What to do.

-flashback-

saki: This is all my fault... I'm so sorry...

girl: This is all my fault... I'm so sorry…

-flashback end-

kokuyou: ...Tch... Why does it hurt? Why is the scar on my neck hurting all of a sudden?

-flashback, alleyway-

sin: Peace cannot be achieved if old wounds still ache. —Proceed with caution, Kokuyou, Saki.

-flashback ends-

kokuyou: ....... (thinking)

—end

(to be continued)