#at my two year old ~8000 word one: also don’t look at this post | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

monstersandmaw · 4 years ago

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Male drider x reader - Part Four (nsfw)

Edit which I’m including in all my works after plagiarism and theft has taken place: I do not give my consent for my works to be used, copied, published, or posted anywhere. They are copyrighted and belong to me.

I think the previous parts have had a female reader, but I left it ambiguous/gender neutral in this one, even in the nsfw bits, mostly out of habit.

It's 8000 words, with a bit of angst, a good dose of fluff, some recognition of unhealthy attitudes, and a slightly messy nsfw scene at the end...

Hope you enjoy!

Part One, Part Two, Part Three

Gilvas waited until you’d closed the matching panel at the other end of the secret passage, and then turned away.

While you worked on the catalogue, you couldn’t shake the vulnerable look on his face as he’d told you about his late wife and as you’d stared at her vivacious features in the portrait. In the nine years since her death, he’d become a shadow, haunting this creepy old mansion and drifting from one day to the next, and it broke your heart. Gilvas was clearly a gentle soul, though his fuse was short at times, but you had begun to suspect that it was more of a defence mechanism than a character trait.

As evening billowed around the stone walls of the enormous house at the end of the day, with an awful lot still swirling around your mind, you nearly walked straight into Naril who was loading his last pile of autumn leaves into a wheelbarrow by the back door. He called your name just in time and you sidestepped with a bashful grin.

“So is it true?” he asked almost immediately.

“Is what true?”

His ears waggled and he laughed as he dumped the leaves into the barrow with a little flourish. “You and the master…?”

“Me and the master what?” you snorted, crossing your arms. “You make it sound like we’re school kids caught snogging behind the bike sheds! He showed me the portrait of his wife and told me a bit about her, that’s all.”

Naril shook his head expressively. “We’ve had people here on the estate before, you know? None of them ended up strolling the corridors with him.”

“How’d you know about it anyway?” you asked instead, resisting the urge to flick him in fond reprimand on his large ear.

“Chiara came in and started talking to my dad about it. I couldn’t believe it, and neither could they. The master doesn’t ‘chat’ with anyone…”

You shrugged. “Well, if he’s happy talking to me, I’m happy enough to listen. He seems nice, once you get past the way he likes to bark at you.”

Two days later, while you were stooped over the working version of the catalogue, scribbling something down in the margins of your cataloguing notes, the shadows moved in the recesses of the library, and Gilvas emerged. You looked up and smiled. “Hi,” you offered.

He nodded curtly at you and began to pace.

Setting your pencil down a minute or two later, you asked, “Everything… alright?”

Gilvas turned, apparently on the point of snapping something acerbic and defensive at you, but he caught himself in time and paused, throat working. The dark red birthmark on his neck moved and shifted like ink in water. If asked, you’d have said he was nervous. “I… I was wondering if you would take tea with me on the terrace today.”

You froze. Of all the things you’d been expecting from him, that had not been it. “Uh…” you began artlessly.

“Or not. You don’t have to,” he blurted, turning away. “Stupid idea anyway.”

“Wait,” you laughed, relief washing through you. “Wait. I’d love to. I was just surprised, that’s all.”

“Oh.”

If you’d been surprised, it was nothing to the expression on Chiara’s face when he summoned her to the library with a little bell pull that you’d not spotted before.

“You… You want to take tea… You want to take tea outside…?” the harpy repeated, looking unsteady on her clawed feet.

As if he’d just realised how unusual it was, his expression went blank, his four ruby eyes going dull, and he seemed to deflate. Gone was the intimidating, sharp-edged lord of the manor, and in his place you saw a vulnerable, shattered widower, with no one to talk to and rusty social skills.

Reading her master well enough, Chiara schooled her features into something resembling their usual sternness, and she nodded. “Of course. I will have it set up for you and…” she looked at you with her golden eyes and you tried not to shrink away. “For the both of you.”

“Thank you,” you said, and she nodded, departing.

“I think I gave her quite the shock,” he muttered, half smirking.

With a snort, you said, “We’re just going to have to find more ways to surprise them.”

“Them?”

“Your staff,” you said. “It’s clear that they all respect you, and they enjoy working here - well, obviously I can’t speak for all of them, but I have supper with Mr. Ambleside and his son almost every night. I don’t get the impression that they’d object to seeing a bit more of their mysterious master from time to time.”

“It’s been so long,” he croaked. “I… I’ve hidden myself away up here. I… I don’t remember — I mean…” he broke off and you noticed how glassy his eyes were.

Cautiously, you approached him and laid your hand on his foremost right leg. It was smooth like glass, and cold. It felt extremely brittle, though you knew the chitin was pretty tough. Your eyes nearly drifted to the empty stump on his right side though, and you suppressed a shiver. It wasn’t that tough. He shuddered and you nearly retracted your touch. “Sounds like you could use a friend to take tea with every now and again…” you said gently.

“I’d like that,” he said. “If… If you could bear it.”

“Bear it?” you repeated. “Please. I wouldn’t have accepted if it wasn’t something I didn’t already want to do.”

Gilvas fixed you with a piercing red gaze, making the blood-dark streak of his hair and the swirling birthmark stand out in vivid detail. “No,” he mused slowly, his legs and spider body relaxing a little into your touch like a great machine coming to rest. “I don’t suppose you would.”

Tea on the terrace became a daily fixture, weather permitting, and on the first day it was rained off, he asked you into a small drawing room on the ground floor that you��d never been in before.

Four and a half months into your stay, he leaned over the table and poured you another cup with shaking hands. He always shook, you realised, though the tremors worsened when he grew agitated or emotional. If Naril was right, he was about ten years older than you, and while at times he seemed youthful and almost playful when you got him talking about one of his interests - mathematics was a particular favourite of his - there were times when he seemed stiff and tired, and much, much older than you; and older than he truly was. He carried the weight of his grief around with him everywhere, dragging at him like chains, rattling in the quiet corridors of his mind and reminding him of his heartache. He never went too long with a smile on his face, the expression often shattering or sliding off his face to leave a brittle mask behind.

“Gilvas?” you asked as he set the teapot down on the tray with a rattle. “Everything alright?”

“You’re too perceptive by half,” he grumbled. “I wanted to ask you to dine with me tonight.”

“Oh,” you breathed, taken off-guard.

“You sound disappointed,” he said a slight huff to his tone.

Conflicted, you said, “It’s Naril’s birthday. He’s celebrating with the rest of the staff and some of his friends tonight, and he asked me to join him…”

“Then you must go, obviously,” he said. After a pause he added, “Naril is the one who tends to the gardens, is he not?”

“Mmm. He’s a firbolg.”

“My father always hired firbolgs for their way with nature. I’d forgotten that Ambleside has a child. How old is he?”

“About my age, I suppose?”

Whether or not he was aware of it, Gilvas’ face shuttered at that. With a sigh, he shifted his already vague gaze to the huge patio windows beside you and stared out at the gardens beyond. It had been raining earlier, but it had cleared up now to leave broad puddles flashing in the sunlight on the terrace. “I think I will go for a walk through the gardens this evening before sunset…”

“You want some company?” you asked, but he shook his head.

“No. Thank you.”

Naril’s party was just rowdy enough to be fun without straying too far into unruliness, and you stayed up late in the kitchens, laughing and joking with him and his father, who, it turned out, had quite the sense of humour with a few glasses of wine in him. Eloise, the maid, also joined you, and a few friends of Naril’s who lived in Starfall Springs. The laughter continued long into the night, until his friends from town announced that it was time to head back just shy of one in the morning.

Waving them off at the end of the night, still buzzing with the unusually vibrant evening, you and Naril turned from the upper gates and walked back to the house. In the dark, the firbolg could see much better than you, so he let you loop your arm amicably through his to stop yourself stumbling on the uneven driveway.

Just as you stepped back into the kitchen, he cracked a good-natured joke at your expense, recalling a moment from earlier in the evening, and you nearly fell about laughing. “Oh my gods,” you wheezed as you clung to his arm to stop yourself tripping up the step. “You’re never going to let that go, are you?”

“Nope,” he said, popping the plosive consonant with a chuckle. “You’re far too easy to tease. I —” he cut off suddenly, expression falling. His eyes were wide and he was staring at a point on the far side of the kitchen.

You looked up and found the hulking shape of a drider standing silhouetted in the dark doorway. “Forgive me,” Gilvas said stiffly, jaw working. “I came for a brandy. I thought you’d all turned in for the night.”

You blurted, “Gilvas?” at the same time as Naril whispered, “My lord?”

“Forget it,” he said, turning abruptly in the wide doorway. “I hope you enjoyed your evening together.”

Even after the door slammed behind him - the gesture leaving a sour taste in your mouth - neither you nor Naril spoke.

Finally it was Naril who broke the silence. “I’ve never seen him before…” he murmured, awestruck at the encounter. “He looks dreadful. Perhaps he is sick after all?”

“He doesn’t look as dreadful as he looked three months ago,” Chiara’s unexpected voice said tartly from the pantry to your left where she’d apparently been occupied, stowing away the remnants of the uneaten food.

You swallowed. “Well… I… uh… I guess I’d better head back. Thanks for tonight,” you said, hugging Naril briefly. “Happy birthday. I’m sorry I didn’t have anything to give you… It’s not as if I can go into town or anything from here…”

“Couldn’t you ask your friend to pick you up,” he said. “You know, the one you phone every Friday?”

Despite having phoned Damien every week since arriving, you’d never even thought of asking him to drive all the way out here and pick you up for the weekend. He’d probably do it though if you asked. “I guess I could…”

The idea took root in your mind, and as you took your break the next day, you used the house’s landline to call Damien’s shop since he’d be at work too.

“Hey!” he chuckled. “You don’t normally phone today. How’s things at the Spookville Court?”

“Don't call it that,” you scoffed. “It’s fine. Listen, I haven’t got long, but I was wondering if maybe you’d be free this weekend…? I know it’s not exactly a short drive, but I’d kind of like to get out of here for the weekend…”

There was a pause while he checked his calendar. “Sure,” he said. “I can pick you up on Friday night if you like?”

“You don't have plans?”

“I was gonna grab a beer with Sarrigan since he’s in town,” he admitted, “But maybe if you can get away early, we could go together?”

“I don’t see why I couldn’t…” you said. No one was monitoring your hours after all, and it wasn’t as if you hadn’t made huge inroads into the project already.

You grinned and practically flung yourself at him when Damien’s truck drew up outside your cottage on the far side of the courtyard. The wide expanse of gravel sat on the side of the house with the servants’ entrance, and was overlooked by the back of the mansion.

“I missed you!” you laughed, letting the colossal orc spin you easily in a circle. “You still smell like chocolate,” you said as his immensely long, black plait caught you in the face.

“Just proves I’m sweet,” he joked, and you groaned, smacking him in the chest with the back of your hand as he set you down.

“That was a bad pun, even for you.”

“You ready?” he asked.

“You don’t want to stretch your legs first? You’ve literally just got here.” He shook his head, but did nip inside your apartment for a drink of water and a bathroom break. While he was gone, you leaned against his truck and looked up at the trees above you. The height of summer was fading to the bronze of autumn now, and a few coppery leaves rained down around you like confetti, spiralling through the air that promised a change of season soon.

“Ready?” he asked, swinging your overnight bag easily into the truck and helping you up the enormous step into the cab.

As you drove away, you glanced up at the house and caught the glint of sun on a window as it closed on one of the upper storeys, but you soon forgot about the house as Damien began to regale you with stories of your friends’ antics.

With Widowsweb Court in the rear view mirror, you sighed and settled into the comfy seat, letting Damien talk as the house dwindled to nothing behind you. It felt good to be away from the limited confines of the estate, but as you looked forward to a weekend in Starfall Springs with your friends, something nagged at the back of your mind, like a caught thread pulling in the sleeve of a favourite sweater…

Your whole weekend in Starfall Springs was like the first breath of fresh garden air after a day spent in the dusty library of Widowsweb Court.

Damien had taken you to the Inglenook Inn that first night, where he, Sarrigan, their respective partners, plus a mothman named Merritt whom you’d met a few times before, and a couple of your other friends were gathered, and the lot of you talked late into the night. There were a lot of questions about Widowsweb Court, but you mostly focused on the work and describing the house and gardens to them. Somehow it felt disrespectful - an invasion of his privacy - to talk about Gilvas much.

As you left the pub to walk back to your modest apartment at the north end of the town, Sarrigan caught up with you. As he scuttled up to you, you were struck suddenly by the difference between him and Gilvas. Sarrigan Silkfoot’s silver-banded fur rippled in the moonlight, ruffled by the night breezes, where Gilvas’ spider body was black, hard, and shiny as black lacquer, and where Gilvas’ legs moved like articulated, curved daggers, Sarrigan’s were chunky and muscular and unbelievably fuzzy, ending in a little hooked and almost dainty talon. Gilvas’ legs ended in wicked points, sharp and slender as paring knives, and his fangs probably carried a deadly venom, where Sarrigan’s smile held only jollity. Gilvas also had no mandibles, where Sarrigan’s hardware clicked and chittered with his emotions.

“Listen,” he said as he fell into a near-silent step beside you. “I know you’ve not got any reception up there at Widowsweb, so I haven’t been able to get in touch by text or whatever, but I just wanted to ask you - away from the others - how it’s going. With my family’s history with theirs, I did some digging into the Widowsweb estate and the family…”

“You did?” You weren’t sure whether to be offended or curious, but in the end, the latter won out. “What did you find?”

“Just tragedy. Lately anyway. Earlier generations seem to have done ok, but… you should look him up.”

“Who, Gilvas?”

He nodded.

“You mean the fire?”

Again, he nodded, shuffling nervously. “The police think he started it, but they could never prove it.”

You scowled, horrified and hurt. “Sarrigan, I’ve met him. He doesn't seem like the type to murder his family - and his unhatched children too?” You shook your head, appalled, stomach roiling. “He’s devastated… rarely talks about them, and when he does… he’s close to tears. I think he lost a leg in the fire too.”

Sarrigan’s handsome face remained harsh and he clicked his mandibles pensively. Finally, he sighed. “Just… be careful, ok? The articles I found all said he had a nasty temper, and that since his wife’s death, he fired all the staff and turned into some kind of recluse…”

“They’ve got the last bit right,” you said, “But not the first.” He did have a short fuse though. “Thanks for looking out for me, Sarrigan, but I’m not worried.”

He nodded once. “I’m sorry if I overstepped.”

You shook your head and parted from him with a warm hug. “I appreciate it, but trust me… Gilvas isn’t some cruel, violent lunatic. He’s an isolated widower who’s never learned how to move past his grief.”

To your relief, Sarrigan seemed to take you at your word, and left you at your door looking happier for having aired his anxieties, and in turn having had them laid to rest.

The remainder of your weekend passed without incident, but you couldn’t get Sarrigan’s words out of your head. If he’d been painted by the press at the time as some kind of violent monster, it was no wonder that Gilvas had hidden himself away on his estate and never spoke to anyone.

On the Sunday of your weekend away, you met up with a few friends at Damien’s cafe for breakfast, and spent the better part of the day while the sun was out browsing the marketplace. As you passed a carpenter’s stall, your eye was drawn by a number of carved, wooden puzzle boxes. The satyr who had made them was demonstrating how one of them worked to a small crowed of fascinated onlookers, and when he finished, finally sliding the last section of wood free, the lid sprang open to reveal the empty chamber inside, and everyone applauded.

Fascinated, you realised what a tactile thing the boxes were, and suddenly thought of Gilvas. With his reduced sight, he relied a lot on his sense of touch. On a whim, you bought one and had it wrapped neatly in brown paper by the satyr. Thanking him, you headed home and packed up, bringing with you a few new clothes and a few more things to occupy your evenings.

Bouncing back up the driveway in Damien’s truck that evening, you couldn’t miss the looks the orc tossed you sidelong, and as you drew to a halt in the courtyard again, he stayed put in his seat and asked, “Are you really alright here? It’s so remote…”

“It’s fine,” you said. “I love the work, and the people are kind. I promise I’ll ring you the moment I’m unhappy, but for now, I’m honestly loving it. I’ve never had a better or more fulfilling job, Damien. I can’t believe I’ve got so little time left really…” You paused and sighed. “I almost don’t want to leave.”

He bowed his head and backed off, though not without pulling you half into his lap for a bone-crushing hug first. “Take care, OK?” he grunted before releasing you.

“You sure you won’t stay for some supper?” you asked as you slithered out of your side of the cab and landed on the gravel. “I bet you’d love Naril.”

“I can’t,” he said with a regretful grimace. “I need to get back to prep the shop for next week. Another time?”

You nodded. “Drive safely.”

For the entire week following your return to Widowsweb Court, you didn’t see even the slightest glimpse of Gilvas.

There was no trace of his having been in the library at all, and the secret panel at the rear of the room stayed firmly shut. You didn’t think it was your place to go wandering the corridors again, and although you continued to take a mug of tea out onto the terrace every afternoon, it was hardly the spread of High Tea that you had shared with him every day for months. The whole place seemed empty without his presence now, reminding you of your very first week there, when every shadow and doorway had loomed ominously large before you.

Finally, at the end of the week, you ran in to Chiara on your way back down and you paused to let her past with an armful of linen. “Chiara, is… is Gilvas around? Is he alright?”

She narrowed her eyes and tutted softly at you. “None of your concern,” she snipped at you before bustling off.

You stood there, mute and surprised.

It definitely didn’t sound like he was alright, but what were you to him, really? You thought of the box stowed away in your room, waiting for the right time to be brought out and given to him, and suddenly felt foolish. You’d known him for a matter of months. He was a lord, with land and a title; he had a whole household full of things already, and you were just there to reorganise his library. He’d probably already forgotten about you.

You worked solidly through the morning again the next day, but didn’t feel hungry enough to go down to lunch. You continued on through the day, pausing only to sip from your water bottle before heading back up the ladders time and time again with armfuls of books. It was exhausting. There was no trace of the webbing he’d used to catch you, and since there was also no sign of him, you made sure to take extra care going up and down.

With a sigh you finally set down the last of the hagiographies at eight o’clock that night, and put your hands to the small of your back, grunting. Dusty, tired, stiff, and still oddly demoralised, you thought you heard the creak of a door from the back of the library, but you’d barely dared to hope before the main doors opened and Naril stumped in, looking terribly out of place and awkward in his gardening overalls. He had mud on his trousers, but his boots had been scraped clean.

He sighed your name in obvious relief when he spotted you. “You ok?” he asked.

“Fine, why?” you frowned as you turned to face him, still with your palms pressed to the small of your back.

“You didn’t come to lunch, and you missed supper as well. I was worried about you.”

You smiled and dropped your hands to your sides. “I’m fine. I just… haven’t felt like myself lately. Thank you though.”

An awkward silence hung between you, and he scratched the back of his head. “Right. Well, there’s… uh… stuff in the larder and fridge if… if you get hungry. I just wanted to make sure you hadn’t been crushed by a ton of books or something.”

With a chuckle, you said, “This isn’t The Mummy you know? People do actually secure their bookshelves…”

He laughed briefly and headed for the doors again. “Seriously though… Are you sure you’re ok?” he asked, ears waggling.

“I’ve… I’ve got a lot on my mind, that’s all.”

“Ok,” he said, green eyes wide and glassy. “Well, you can always talk to me. What are friends for, right?”

“Right. Thank you, Naril.”

He nodded, and left.

In the silent stillness of the library, you sank with a heavy sigh into one of the nearby chairs and let your palm cradle your chin, with your elbow planted on the wood of the table. When had this place started to feel so sad again? It was as if the gloom was seeping back into the fabric of the place like a sponge soaking up ink.

About a minute later, a familiar movement caught your attention and you looked up to find Gilvas standing beside a bookshelf. He was tilting his head in that way that meant he couldn’t see you in the dim light, but he knew you were still there.

“I’m here,” you said quietly, hardly daring to move in case he scuttled away.

Locking onto your voice, he moved with expert familiarity round the library and came to a halt near your table. The only light now came from a lamp one shelf over. “I… I overheard…” he began stiffly. His red gaze sailed right over your head, so it was clear that he couldn’t see you, even this close up. “Is… I mean… Are you alright?”

“Could ask the same of you,” you said wryly, eyeing the dark shadows under his eyes and the tightness around his mouth. “I haven’t seen you in ages.” He looked dreadful again, as if he’d hardly eaten anything in the interim.

“Been better, I suppose,” he said. “The firbolg said you haven’t eaten today… is that right?”

“Mmm.”

“Should we raid the kitchen together?”

You smiled. “You haven’t eaten either I take it…”

He shook his head.

Standing, you swayed as a head rush washed over you and you let out a tiny grunt of surprise, grabbing the back of the chair.

With a scowl, he stepped closer. “Alright?” He steadied you, his hand finding your waist and lingering there.

“I missed you,” you breathed unthinkingly as you stared up at him.

Gilvas froze and then let out a rough exhale, withdrawing a few paces. “You did?”

“Mmm. I have something for you too, from Starfall, but it’s back in my room. I… I’d started to think I wasn’t going to see you again…”

“I’m sorry,” he said, his fingers curling briefly into fists at his side. “I… I rather let the melancholy take over again.”

“Why?” you asked, stepping closer to him. His ear followed you and he narrowed his eyes. You got the impression that you’d just stepped into his limited field of vision and he could now make out your silhouette in the shadowy library.

The lord of Widowsweb Court gave a bitter, brittle laugh and turned away, legs moving in sequence like a windup toy. “I think I misled myself,” he said eventually.

Your brows knitted and you closed the distance between you, laying your hand boldly on his cool, obsidian foreleg again. As before, he shivered, but he didn't pull away. “What do you mean?”

“I suppose I got carried away - this past month in particular,” he said in his rough baritone.

“I don’t understand.”

“Of course you don’t,” he said, that cut-glass edge returning to his voice. “You don’t know what it was like before you came here; before you —” he stopped himself but then took a breath and continued in barely a whisper, the consonants softly articulated. You had to lean in closer to hear him. “Before you brought the light back to this place.” His voice cracked as he added, “And you took it with you.”

“Gilvas…” you gasped, shocked by his tone.

“I know,” he growled. “It’s inappropriate of me, and melodramatic. You were only gone for two days. But it’s the truth. I got so swept up in spending time with someone again — in… in enjoying myself — that I somehow forgot that you have a whole life outside of our brief interactions here, beyond these walls…”

“Naril's birthday…” you breathed and he nodded. He’d stumbled upon you and Naril sharing a laugh and a close touch at his birthday and had assumed from the physical closeness that there was something more than friendship between you. That had been the last time you’d seen him.

Then he shook his head in disgust and sneered self-deprecatingly, “It’s as though I became a teenager again - spoilt and sour and… everything I loathe about myself.”

He backed away out of your grip until his huge carapace nudged against the shelf behind him and he went still again. Trapped between you and the books, he breathed heavily for a moment through his aquiline nose. Your heart was beating in your throat but you kept quiet.

“I have a nasty, possessive side,” he said, scowling. “I’d almost forgotten about it, but as — I hesitate to call it a friendship… I’m not sure what we had between us — but whatever it was grew, I came to think of you as… mine. And then I saw you laughing with him and… I remembered that you’re not mine at all. I have no right to make those kinds of disgusting demands or claims. You’re not mine — you’re not anyone’s but your own person. I forgot myself, and I hated myself for it.”

He was jealous.

Gilvas was jealous that you’d been laughing with Naril that night. Despite the anguish on his face, you had to smile. When he heard you chuckle softly, he growled at you again, deep and rich and animalistic. Defensive. That was all it was; defensive bluster.

“It’s true that Naril has come to be my friend here,” you said, moving carefully closer to him now that he couldn’t back away any more. “But I thought about you all weekend while I was away. I couldn’t get you out of my head. When my friend Sarrigan —”

“— Silkfoot?” he interrupted with a sneer. “‘Sarrigan’ is an old Silkfoot name…”

“Yes. Sarrigan Silkfoot is a friend of mine,” you said carefully, noting the lingering displeasure in his features. “He’s currently dating a human, and my best friend, Damien, is also very much in love with a human. If you’re worried about what previous generations of Silkfoots thought about relationships between species, you needn’t worry. The current heir to the family - Sarrigan’s older brother - has even recently married a human. Things have moved on since the founding of Widowsweb…”

His chest heaved and he sank lower so that his pendulous spider’s body was only a few inches above the ground, and his torso and head were almost on a level with yours. “I’ve hidden myself away too long,” he whispered, more to himself than to you.

Taking a final step over to him, you stood in the space between his deadly front legs. It felt suddenly intimate in the extreme, and you reached your palm out and laid it on his chest. He flinched, but let you talk.

“Sarrigan told me a bit more about the papers said… about the circumstances of the fire… about what people believed at the time…” you said carefully, and Gilvas’ face darkened dangerously. “But I got to know you before I’d heard that, and I can’t believe you would have started it. I can’t believe anyone thought that of you.” You placed your left palm to mirror your right and felt the way his chest heaved with emotion as he listened. “You’re a good person, Gilvas. I told my friends that, and they believed me. And I think you’ve suffered alone for long enough.”

Gilvas’ expression shattered and he leaned forwards and drew you into his arms. “I don't want you to leave…” he whispered into your hair as he held you close. He smelled like books and sandalwood, warm and comforting, and you let your arms snake around his waist.

“I don't have anything else lined up for after I finish here,” you said without letting go. He was gently inhaling the scent of you, you realised, and you let him hold you, drawing comfort from the warmth of your body. “And I told you there’s a lifetime’s worth of work to do on this library…”

“I could renew your contract,” he said. “Or… Or you could… No. I don't want you to feel… obliged…” he said, swallowing thickly and drawing sharply back from your embrace as if you’d burned him. “If I’m paying you —” his face buckled into a sour grimace and he lurched slightly further away from you. “I don’t want to pay you to stay here…” he spat as if the idea thoroughly disgusted him.

You laughed. “I own my apartment in Starfall. I could rent it out for some income, and come and live here with you. That way… there’s no imbalance…”

“Yes,” he nodded breathlessly, hardly daring to believe what he was hearing. “Yes, that’s… that’s good. And if you still have your apartment, you can… I mean… there will be somewhere for you… if… if you decide…”

“Stop,” you said. “Don’t push me away again.”

The drider took a huge inhale and nodded. Then he licked his lips nervously and said, “You know, we were going to raid the kitchen before we went down this path. You shouldn’t make any rash decisions on an empty stomach.”

“An excellent point,” you said with mock seriousness. “Let’s go.”

Over a rather strange and cobbled-together supper of leftovers scrounged from the pantry, eaten at the scrubbed wooden table in the kitchen, Gilvas stayed almost completely silent. At first, you thought he was just concentrating on eating, being particularly careful about his movements since he didn’t see as clearly as you did, but after a while, you discovered the crinkle in his brow and noticed the tremor in his fingers again.

“Wait here,” you said, pushing back from the table and touching the back of his hand briefly. He was always so cold.

“Where are you going?” he barked, tense.

With a giggle, you said, “Trust me. I’ll be right back.”

And with that, you vanished out of the back door and scuttled over the gravel to the little apartment above the old stable block where you’d been staying for the past few months. Minutes later, you returned to find him exactly where you’d left him, scowling at his food.

He looked up sharply as you reentered, and you watched his shoulders drop with relief a split second later when he figured out that it was you.

“Here,” you said, holding out the brown paper parcel to him, touching it to the back of his fingers in case he couldn’t see it.

In moments, it was obvious to you that he couldn’t, because his fingertips trailed along the edges, looking for a way into the parcel. “What is it?” he asked warily, shifting his head from side to side.

“You’ll find out. I saw them being made in the marketplace, and I think with your sense of touch you’ll probably have an advantage over someone with sharper vision…”

At that, his frown deepened, though not from discomfort. He was openly curious now, and he got to work on the wrappings, abandoning them to one side. “A box?” he murmured when he’d run his fingers all the way around it. Watching him, you suddenly felt a thrum of desire go right through you. You wanted him to do that to your body, to explore you by touch, and you barely bit back a moan as the force of it swept through you.

He paused and turned his face towards you expectantly.

“Yeah,” you croaked. “It’s a puzzle box. It’s all inlaid with different types of wood, and there are a few panels and sections that you have to slide in the right order to open it.”

At that, his face cracked into a gorgeous, open, delighted grin and your heart slipped sideways in your chest at the youthfulness it lent to his features. “I used to love these as a child,” he said. “Thank you.”

He moved then, obviously not having been sitting on a chair like you, and found his way faultlessly around the kitchen to where you were seated opposite him. The little inlaid box lay to one side on the table while he took your hands in his and squeezed your knuckles fondly, earnestly.

“Thank you,” he rasped again.

You raised your chin and he let go of you with his right hand and brought it up to cup your left cheek in his cool palm. His thumb traced an arc across your skin and you shivered, exhaling and breathing hard. “Gilvas…” you whispered, want burning inside you inside you like a flare. You didn’t want to push him or rush him, but if he didn’t kiss you in the next three seconds, you thought you might just wither up and die on the spot.

Mercifully, he leaned down, tilting your chin upwards to meet his lips. His kiss was soft, his lips cool and hesitant, but the moment you let a little moan of pleasure escape you, he deepened the kiss. His long fingers scrunched in your hair and he closed his red eyes with a flutter of long lashes. His two forelegs rose up slightly for balance as his body rocked downwards and he pulled back with a gasp, chest heaving again. “I want you,” he whispered hoarsely, looking suddenly shy.

You grinned and stood. “I want you too…”

Gilvas led you through the house, pausing with endearing frequency to kiss you breathless against almost every spare surface that wasn’t covered by paintings or suits of armour or priceless vases on precarious pedestals, and finally he backed you up against the double doors to a bedroom on the fourth floor, and picked you up so that you had to latch your legs around his waist at the point where his humanoid torso met his spider’s body. You ground yourself against him as he kissed you over and over, his long hair falling around your face in a black and red curtain.

With one foreleg, he delicately pushed the handle down and nudged the doors open. Still holding you, he drew your top off over your head, discarding it to one side as he carried you across the room and deposited you onto a massive bed. It bounced and flexed beneath you, and as you looked around you discovered that it was not a bed, but a thick and intricately woven web slung between the two perpendicular walls of the far corner of the room. You leaned back into it, feeling the soft silken strands flex slightly beneath you, and looked up to see Gilvas’ silhouette in the darkness of the room.

The moon shone through an open window to your right, painting fine silver highlights to the gleaming lacquer of his carapace and needle-like legs, and in the moonlight, you saw that he was dripping webbing onto the floor from the gland at the tip of his spider’s abdomen. You knew enough about driders to know that when they got really aroused, they often leaked webbing like this. Male driders did not mate the way many other beings did, but that didn't put you off. You wanted him - his pleasure, his ecstasy, his noises, his joy…

It did make him suddenly nervous though, as if he’d only just realised that you might be expecting him to penetrate you, and with his anatomy, he couldn’t.

“Gilvas?” you asked, reaching up for him where he still loomed hesitantly above you. “Come here… let me take care of you…”

“I…” he began, but he let you draw him down onto the soft, smooth webbing. His legs ended in those dazzlingly sharp points, and he seemed to dance across the webs like a circus performer on a high wire. He lowered himself down atop you and you kissed him again. His hands skated over your hips and he drew the rest of your clothes off to abandon them beside his bed.

Seeking friction, he carefully slid his slick abdomen against your legs and shivered, moaning. “You’re so warm,” he whispered, head bowing forwards as he rested on his elbows, one on either side of your body. “I can’t believe how warm you are… it’s… it…”

“Does it feel good?” you asked, raking your fingers through his long hair and he nodded wordlessly. “Can you roll over?” you asked.

“Oh gods,” he gasped, clearly aroused by the idea, and nodded.

It wasn’t the most elegant manoeuvres, but once he was on his back with his legs curled upwards like a black, clawed hand, you sat in the gap where his one missing leg should have been, and ran your hand over the smoothness of his underbelly. In no time you discovered the slit in his lower body that was leaking slick, pearlescent fluid all over himself.

“Oh!” he yelled, spine curling and legs twitching as you traced your fingertips around the softer inner walls of the slit. Where the rest of his body was cool and hard, there he was almost searingly hot, the inner walls silky and slick. “Oh gods, oh gods… oh gods…” he chanted in time with your motions, his whole body twitching and making the webbing rock beneath him.

The tendons of his neck stood out in glorious contrast beneath the watercolour birthmark as he clenched his jaw and rammed his eyes shut, lost in the sensations. His fingers scrabbled at the web of his bed and he rocked and shivered and arched into your touch as you worked him closer and closer. You knew he was going to make a mess when he came, and you felt your whole body flush hot at the thought of finally getting him to let go of all his tight control and insecurities, to give himself over to the simple, honest pleasure you were offering to give him.

The thought of that was almost enough to make you come yourself, but you focused on him until he growled softly.

“I want…” he began but cut off as you grazed a spot inside him unexpectedly with a fingertip that made him bellow wordlessly. “Fuck…” he hissed when he’d recovered, head lolling back again, and you grinned at the curse on his aristocratic tongue. “Wait…” he panted. “I want… I want to touch you… before I… before you make me…” he growled again in frustration. “I’ll only be able to… to… come once… please… let me…” Hearing him lose control of his words like that in the face of his arousal only made it all the more endearing.

“You can touch me,” you said coyly without changing anything, but when he genuinely snarled, sounding more like a werewolf than a drider, you laughed and leaned closer to him.

His cool fingers dug into your arms as he tugged you tight against his body, pulling you down to lie atop him along the length of his belly and humanoid stomach, and you ground yourself against him for a little relief. His hand slid down your body, down your side, and before you could think, he was pleasuring you. “Let me,” he hissed when you tensed a little, revealing his venomous fangs as a flash of white in the dimness when you tried to pull back to finish him.

“But I wanted to make you come,” you pouted, and he actually laughed at that, four red eyes closing and crinkling softly in the corners with genuine amusement at your disgruntlement.

“Too bad,” he groused. “I want to watch you first.”

“Fair enough,” you grunted as he caught you just so and you rocked against him. “I’m so close…” and you really were. His touch was relentless, demanding your pleasure in return for the sensations you’d just given him.

“I know,” he snarled right in your ear, teeth - the non-venomous ones you hoped - just grazing the shell of your ear. “I can smell it on you.”

And with that, you came unexpectedly hard, crashing into your release and clinging to him. He eased you through it and when you lay panting and spent on his chest, he moved his hand to his mouth and cleaned himself luxuriantly, obviously enjoying the taste of you on his skin.

After that, he seemed softer and more relaxed, and when you’d recovered enough to get your legs back under you and return your attentions to his body, he finally seemed to have allowed himself this connection to another person. His body heaved and rocked rhythmically, his legs knocking nonchalantly against each other as he spasmed and moaned, and as he grew wetter and slicker around your hand, and his inner walls began to clench and shiver in a distinct cadence, you knew he was getting close. He was also giving you the most delicious sounds; gasping and cursing, grunting and even wailing softly at times when you slowed your touches to a barely-there whisper against him.

Eventually though, he began to rock against you in earnest, and you felt his release coming as a rapidly-building wave, gathering momentum until it finally ripped through him like a wildfire. White release gushed from his entrance and covered your hand, rolling down the sleek, shiny carapace to soak into the webbing while his body heaved and convulsed with pleasure. He made no sound, his face contorted in a rictus of pleasure as he gave everything he had to you, his hands gripping the webbing as he released in messy waves all over himself and you.

Finally as the pleasure faded to something gentler and less intense, he lay back, motionless on his bed, muscles completely slack, face soft, breathing quiet.

“Gilvas?”

“Mmm?” he hummed without moving.

“You alright?”

“Mmm.”

Weak and completely spent, he lay there unmoving for a long time while you gently trailed your fingers around his still clenching slit as aftershocks of pleasure rippled through him. Eventually, you wiped your hand clean on the webs beside him and shuffled up to lie beside him. He still looked absolutely exhausted and drained, and you sat there a long time just watching him.

After a very long time, he mustered the energy to open one arm to you and you nuzzled in against his bare shoulder. His breath hissed softly through his slack jaw and he pressed a shy kiss to the top of your head. “See why I wanted… to make you… to make you come first?” he whispered, words heavily slurred and indistinct.

You nodded and shifted to drape your arm across his chest and draw idle patterns over the bare skin of his white torso.

His skin was starkly pale in the moonlight, and as you stared at him, you realised he’d probably relied solely on touch for the whole time you’d been in the room. You smiled and pressed a kiss to his jutting collarbone, making him inhale sharply.

He was still too thin, still obviously not taking care of himself properly, but, you thought, if he’d trusted you and let you in to this extent, perhaps you could both take care of each other now.

“Penny for your thoughts?” he whispered after another long while of silence and closeness in the dark.

“Just thinking how good this feels,” you said honestly. “And how I could lie like this forever… Or at least… until you’re ready to go again.”

He snorted, taken off-guard. “Won’t be for a very long while,” he said bashfully. “Driders don’t recover quickly. Not the male ones, anyway.”

“I’m in no rush,” you said, laying your cheek back down on his cool skin and shivering as goosebumps rippled up your body.

He fumbled around on his other side and drew a large blanket up and over his body, careful to avoid the mess on his carapace, and let you snuggle up beneath it.

You’d have to wait for the dawn to go again though, because you were asleep in his arms in minutes.

___

Maybe we'll get to see more of them in the future, but for now, this four-part story is over. Thanks for your comments and enthusiasm for the cranky spooder boy!

___

I really hope you folks enjoyed this one! Don’t forget to let me know if you did enjoy it by leaving a like and/or reblogging it!

#drider #exophilia #male drider #male drider x reader #drider x reader #monster boyfriend #drider boyfriend #male monster #gender neutral reader #female reader #(technically - although the reader in this part is gn)

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godziiwa · 4 years ago

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HAIKYU AO3 FANFIC RECOMMENDATIONS

please, before reading any of this fanfics read the hashtags! also, all the credits to the authors! enjoy

MY FANFICS:

i bet you look god on the dance flor (2100 words, club, dancing, iwa’s birthday, just fluff. confessions)

this house is a circus (2300 words, on going, covid, quarantine together)

you probably couldn't see for the lights but you were staring straight at me (10k, college au, drugs, first meetings)

right now im working on a demon slayer au and nascar/racing au

IWAOI

you're looking like you fell in love tonight (fake dating au, 35k words)

conquering the great king (so much smut, 105k words)

only for the weekend (fake dating, 34k words)

say my name (one shot, literally this is only smut, 2700 words)

new phone who dis (texting, so funny 57k words,)

waiting in the stars (bodyswap, 116k words)

rich boy, poor boy (107k words)

coffee king (coffee au, 187k words)

arrest me, officer (police au, this fanfic is so good and so funny pls read it, 122k words)

what you came for (police iwa, personally my favorite iwaoi fanfic, 108k words)

trial by fire (lawyers au, so good, 76k words)

mind reader (iwa can read minds, 40k)

lockdown (prison au, everybody is a criminal expect karasuno, 72k words)

press "1" to get a call from your drunk best friend (funny, one shot, drunk iwa)

six month lover (89k, pining, this one is SO good)

it's lonely on Jupiter (122k, iwa is an alien, college)

lacrimae (22k, I'm sorry this is literally only smut, but soooooooo good)

I choose you (soulmate au, 9000 words)

build me a temple (this one is really good, god oikawa, 39k words, its like read a ghibli movie)

to be first, to be best (26k, so good)

the courtship ritual of the Hercules battle (future fic, so good, 66k)

they say it rains diamonds on jupiter (iwa pines, 35k)

UPDATED 9/03/21

the panty dropper (band au, 21k)

antithesis (10k)

tokyo boy (16k)

lucky number 13 (12+1 things, 17k)

kireji (police oikawa, 11k)

I sure hope that the sun got rhythm ('cause he gonna dance when that music hit'm) (dance au, 28k)

never just acting with you (actor oikawa, roadtrip, 45k)

the loyalty of a traitor (yakuza boss oikawa, GREAT FIC, 77k)

shining so bright (9000 words)

fall line (this one is so cute, strangers to lovers, 21k)

silver tongue (office au, SUPER FUNNY, 10k)

I know when you're around ('cause i know the sound of your heart) (coffe shop au, 17k)

new flame (sugar daddy iwa, THIS ONE IS SO GOOD AND SO FLUFFY, 58k, on going)

we’re going home (6000 words)

the best best (domestic fluff, 12k)

all kinds of winners (this is only smut but its so good)

dinner and a movie (fake dating, 11k)

its not love, probably (7000 words)

mint (18k)

as close as you need (8000 words)

piece of cake (baker iwa 15k)

good vibrations (only smut but inmaculate)

tooru’s toil and trouble (soulamate au, 11k)

dear diary, i met a boy (he made my dull heart light up with joy) (pining, 15k)

cotton breathing (sumer lovin, 15k)

all the words of time and space (online friends, 46k)

get ripped, get laid (personal trainer iwa, 13k)

desperado (thieves, heist fic, 82k)

as much as i do (oisuga fake dating, 42k)

have mercy on me (hanahaki, 10k)

yellow white red (camellia/gardenia) (flower shop au, 9000)

UPDATED 17/6/21

one for two (3700 words, smut, sex toys)

good together (1120 words, smut)

kotov syndrome (50k detective au)

ambus (1900 words, smut)

soft wool, agile fingers (knitting au 11k)

i’d marry you in a dumpster (or in your room) (2600 words, love conffesions)

storm warning (10k post-graduation)

no sex for you in a really long time (3600 words, public sex)

of moonlight and covens (20k, ritual sex, sabrina au)

undechiperable (4800 words, love conffesions)

tips on how to get with your crush (7500 words, mutual pining)

phone home (6500 astronaut oikawa)

amicus curiae (43k, lawerys au, SO GOOD!!!)

boy like you (2200 words, strip tease)

till lies do us part (50k mr & mrs smith au)

bet i can (1800 words, smut)

don’t let me go (20k, pining, ftl)

make a wish (7400, iwaizumi’s birthday)

rule number two: just don’t get attached to) (20k, detective au, SO GOOD)

you find me in a hospital bed (11k, hospital au but without angst)

driving me crazy (17k, smut with plot)

baby you might need a seat belt (11k time skip smut)

i’ll never feel whole (19k, roommates)

synaisthesis (14k, violinst oikawa and pianist iwa, this is so good a deserves more, please read)

in the business of love (22k, fake dating)

some fools rush in (7800 words fake dating)

i’ve been missing you for a long time (7300 words, fluff)

a little sweetness (2600 words)

breath in (5800 words, drugs)

hell mision (22k bodyguard iwa)

a coffe shop’s acoustics (23k coffe shop au and musician oikawa)

relationship thing (25, different first meeting)

fuck ups and hook ups (13k, ne night stands, smut with plot)

kissing both (1700, kissing both)

we might be (37k)

places (15k)

inside, this place is warm (6500 words, established relationship)

betrayal (2400, love conffesions)

meant to be (6000 words, college au)

galaxies, within you (21k college au)

kiss me on the mouth and set me free (18k mutual pining)

i’m no poet (4000 words, love conffesions, THIS IS SO SWEET)

the prince of yakuza (8000 yakuza smut)

just friends (6000 words friends with benefits)

misconceptions (5000 words, 5+1 things)

balustrade (10k, neighbors)

made of our longest days (4000 words, love conffesions)

burning heart (7000 words, firefighter iwa)

i want you, i’ll hope you’ll come to me (15k to all the boys au)

walking the dog (11k)

routine (2900 words)

terrarium (11k, THIS IS SO GOOD PLEASE READ)

fake it till you make it (12k youtubers au)

yours for the weekend (14k, actor oikawa)

we shine like diamonds (26k homophobia)

i shure hope that guy gets fired (29k, time-loop)

15 minutes (17k)

lips likes sugar (8000 words, practing kissing)

in this same space (23k, cosplayer oikawa and doujinka iwa)

thirty years and change (19k, future fic)

焦がれて怖くなる [I yearn for you so much that I'm getting scared] (4800 words, hanakotoba)

trouble with texting (12k texting)

salt water (8000 words)

the stars in your eyes (5350 words love confessions)

it takes seven days (26k bakery au)

from your mortal enemy (11k, 5+1 things)

conqueror of hearts (29k royalty au)

stranger danger (14k texting college au)

the bachelor (16k the bachelor au)

my heart is where it’s always been (21k)

rise (12k, college au)

sleeping habits (6000 words)

KAGEHINA

blinding problem (hinata pines, 220k words)

I like the way your clothes smell (canonverse, 75k words)

dial (phone sex, the smut is immaculate, personally one of my favorites, 103k words)

I can do better (canonverse, 45k words)

deadly (this fanfic is so good please you have to read it, laundry au, 42k words)

the job (this is personally my favorite, you MUST read it, 61k words)

the crown and the crow (soulmate au)

happy birthday, idiot (fluff, canonverse, 31k)

love biscuits (fluff, humor, hinata is a vet)

something old and something new (this one is very cute, canonverse, 17k)

UPDATED 09/03/21

open 24 hours (smut, food kink, 11k)

sweet tooth (11k)

perfecting the latte heart (coffe shop au, 31k)

routine (29k, cam boy hinata)

that's it for now, I'll be updating once in a while

#haikyu #iwaoi fanfic #kagehina fanfic #haikyu fanfics #haikyu fanfic recommendation #haikyuu fic recs

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anakinthetrashking · 5 years ago

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BnHA One-Shot Fic Recs (pt2)

I AM HERE! With more recs for you! The last post was all about DadMight, such a beautiful genre *wipes tear from eye* This time its DADZAWA! if you happen to follow me, you might know that i really really(really) love Aizawa. a lot. So im going to try to keep this to only 10 recs, but,, well,,,, we’ll see anyway leTS GO

Aches and Pains by Badwolf36 Rating: G Category: Gen ~2700 words Summary: In which Izuku isn't willing to admit how much pain he's in, and Mr. Aizawa is just as much of a softie for his students as he always is. I’m always SO WEAK to stories that deal with the very real consequences of breaking all of your bones. Poor Izuku. I enjoyed the details of how he’s feeling, the way that the reader’s awareness of his pain waxes and wanes along with Izuku’s (temporary distractions can only do so much, A+ for realism there). Also, soft Dadzawa while not mushy-ooc-Aizawa! Conclusion: I love this and also want Aizawa to make me hot cocoa when there’s storms and i cant sleep!! (sidenote, everytime i see this username my brain shorts out bc my old ff.net account was also Badwolf## lol)

My Neighbor Shouta-ro by Hound_of_Heaven Rating: G Category: Gen ~2,700 words Summary: Yamada Hizashi, on Christmas Eve of the year he turns 19, jokingly presents Aizawa Shouta, also 19, with a Totoro kigurumi. Everything that follows after is pure chance. Heeeeeeeeeck this is ADORABLE. I- You guys- this is so pure and so precious and so!! go read it, i died. such fluff.

constrained by my own mind (im not fine) by CamsthiSky (tumblr: @camsthisky ) Rating: G Category: Gen ~1,500 words Summary: Midoriya Izuku is a problem child, and for some reason, Aizawa Shouta cares too much to let him fend for himself when the kid is obviously dealing with something First of all this is written by one of my fav Batfam writers!!! I was so hype when i saw this posted and OF COURSE IT WAS JUST AS WONDERFUL IF NOT MORE SO THAN I EXPECTED!!!! A+++++ in character for both Izuku and Aizawa. Izuku is jumpy and anxious and stressed and i love it. That the way Izuku started out, and while i am eternally happy at how much his life and social reactions have already changed, stuff like that doesnt just disappear in even a year, so I love fics that address that and expound on all the progress that he would have to make behind the scenes. and having Aizawa as the catalyst to begin getting actual help? *chef’s kiss* This checks boxes and then proceeds to cover the page in checkmarks LOL

remember from here on in by aloneintherain (tumblr: @captainkirkk ) Rating: T Category: Gen ~8000 words warning: spoiler heavy from manga chp 215 Summary: Aizawa glances from All Might to Midoriya quickly. It sounds impossible—he’s never heard of a quirk that can be handed down like a family heirloom—but at the same time, it makes perfect sense. Midoriya’s inability to use his quirk at the start of the year. The strange, familial relationship between All Might and Midoriya. The slow malnourishment of All Might’s body, like his power was being siphoned away. “You’re …” Aizawa begins.“I’m All Might’s successor.” Midoriya’s proud but shaky voice rings clearly down the empty corridor. Aizawa finds out about One for All. Awwwwwwww yiiiiiiiissssssssss!!!!! reveal fic!!!! one of my all time fav tropes!!! Plus it expounds on some future theorys/possibilities(Spoilers!!!) and you get some great interactions between Izuku and Shinsou, and plenty of opportunities taken to wear out our already worn out catepillar-sensei. poor guy needs a break but would do anything for these kids. Incredible characterization, great feels!!

Those Hardest to Love Need it Most by DancingintheStorm Rating: T Category: Gen ~8,200 words Summary: Shouta gripped the phone tight enough to make the phone case groan. “So it’s true. Midoriya was Quirkless.”“Until soon before the entrance exam,” Nedzu confirmed. “That’s not relevant now, though, because—““Relevant?” Shouta hissed. “Midoriya is barely functional, socially. He doesn’t trust any adult. He thinks the whole world hates him. He apologizes for everything except breaking the law, and I’m sure I can trace every single one of those things back to his Quirklessness. You call that irrelevant?” Aizawa visits Aldera Junior High and finds out some disturbing truths. Yes. Just. Yes. Righteous anger abounds, local anxiety-child is told for the first time that his life has worth, more at 10 (I LOVE THIS ONEEE)

The Gaunlet and friendships and how memes tie the two together by averypassionateperson Rating: T Category: Gen ~3,500 words Summary: Shinsou walks into his first day in the Hero Course hoping to get politely ignored. He walks out having gotten into a sanctioned fistfight with the entire Bakusquad and a whole lot of new friendships. Also, memes are responsible for most of this. This fic is SOOOOOOOOO much fun. Always sure to bring a smile and honestly all I could want from a fic about Shinsou’s first day in 1A!!!

like light through a window by achievingelysium (tumblr: @queenangst ) Rating: T Category: Gen 1,139 words Summary: The first time Shouta sees what Hagakure looks like, it’s because she’s covered in blood. Coming from one of the best Dadzawa writers around, is a delightfully haunting fic centered on Hagakure!! The Dazawa is of course, spot on, the premise makes your heart ache as it plays out like a movie in your mind. So smooth to read, while so emotionally painful. Ouch. It is a fic with imagery that has stuck in my mind like a plant with deep roots, bc i keep thinking about it despite my too-much-fanfic-reading-adhd-muddled-brain. I feel like i had more to say but tumglr erased the paragraph i had originally written. D: (side note, as i am keeping these posts to 10 fics... this fic came from her series of 30 min fics which you can find here on tumblr ao3 its an absolute goldmine of one-shots, go check it out)

a frozen pond, dark and deep by walking_through_autumn Rating: T Category: Gen ~3,800 words Summary: In the aftermath of Endeavour's battle against High End, Aizawa escorts Todoroki to his home for special leave, and they have a conversation that has been long in the making. (Or: Over two car rides and the mystery known as bubble tea, Aizawa divulges information, Todoroki returns the favour, and trust is built over unexpected similarities.) This fic felt just as quiet as the two characters it surrounds, which was really nice. Even deep emotional grieving can be quiet, since everyone feels things and reacts to things differently. It was a brilliant way to chip away at these character’s walls to let light shine through without creating an earthquake event to destroy the walls completely, you know? and it works off of canon so well. ah yes seeing the process of Aizawa realizing that hes has adopted another child is my fav anyhow i enjoyed it very much!

but still my heart is heavy (with the hate of some other man’s beliefs) by honeyandsunshine Rating: T Category: Gen ~3,500 words Summary: Nemuri jerks a thumb to the side window, presumably the one with the best view of the front gates. When Shouta looks, a small crowd, all of which he can recognize from his class, are gathered around a sleazy looking man with a camera and a microphone. Half their quirks are activated. Bakugou and Todoroki are smoking. From the bushes nearby, a rather enraged stag emerges. As he gets up, Shouta just hopes they haven’t already killed him. Or:Class 1-A defends their own. Aizawa suffers, but looks after them anyways. I love how this doesn’t go the way you expect it to. and how much Aizawa loves and trusts his class full of gremlin heroes. The Dadzawa is so soft, his logic is sound, my heart aches, and i kinda want to cry. really, really, really great you guys

bend, don’t break by heyhamlet (tumblr: @hey-hamlet ) Rating: T Category: Gen ~4,100 words Summary: It started, as it always seemed to, on what was supposed to be a pleasant day. ---A Christmas shopping attempt gone wrong, Aizawa and Midoriya have to survive a strange nightmare quirk, all while trying to work out how to get out of there alive. Aizawa is injured, Midoriya is panicked. It's less a question of what could go wrong, but more what could go right. Another fic that has not left my soul since i read it. Some of it is truly terrifying in a way that I hope never haunts my own nightmares. and honestly isnt that reason enough to read it? While near death experiences bond people together well, nothing beats being trapped with someone in a nightmare that is feeding off of your deepest fears! If Aizawa wasn’t considering adoption before, he certainly is now. Found family before the monster finds you...0.o go read it, its a treat from another top notch writer!

well, thats 10! the next post will probably be misc. bnha one-shots. Enjoy and don’t forget to give the writers your souls love and comments!

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m39 · 4 years ago

Text

I’m rambling about June Egbert before my Homestuck^2 break starts.

Originally, this was supposed to be posted day after 6/12 but I’m posting it now because I’m sick of Homestuck^2.

For those who don’t know what I’m talking about and/or lived under the rock for a decade, June Egbert is a very popular headcanon of a Trans woman version of John. To this day I’m still confused how it all happened. Don't get me wrong, I’m not saying that the idea of John becoming Trans woman is bad, far from it, I just find this headcanon overrated. Maybe I find it all overrated because my mind is not woke enough and I can’t analyze/find the most miniscule things that (supposedly) indicate that John is actually Trans. But hey, that’s just me.

Besides being overrated, I have two major problems with June headcanon.

The first one is: How June will become canon?

Now before you start scratching your heads thinking Wait wha-, a quick summary: Someone found a magical, genie-tier Toblerone that Hussie had hidden, and her wish was for June to become canon. This makes me go questioning myself on how the flying fuck can she actually become canon. The best possible scenario that I can come out with is that June Egbert is from yet another, third timeline (not the Alpha one). It would made most of the sense since in over 11 years since the release and 8000+ pages of the original comic, John had never shown any thoughts that he was born in wrong body, neither with him expressing feelings about it. It’s basic writing 101: when you create the character who is Trans, do not use a character that was never indicated to be Trans. Sure, both Johns from both timelines are not exactly the same as the Alpha John, but there were still no clear examples/proof that one of them were trans in Epilogues and/or Homestuck^2. Candy John shaving his mustache? Well it might indicate that he decided to clean himself up, start a life once more by getting over the fact that his timeline is (possibly) the doomed timeline and have a time of his life. The same John wearing his God-Tier pajamas? It can be shown as a joke that he’s not a teenager anymore but a 38 years old fart who outgrown his old clothes and forgot to change it to his current size. There are still other things similar to these but I am mostly focusing on the Homestuck^2 stuff so, yeah.

The second problem is the one that I find more… sickening for the lack of better words. Some people tend to act like John never existed at all.

They act like he was always named June. They act like he was always Trans. They are calling him June in the comments despite the fact that it’s still John that we see! I saw one comic with A young man stands in- text with its author blurring out the word man in it!! These people are calling other artists transphobes for just drawing John!!! ALL OVER SOMEONE WHO DIDN’T EVEN APPEAR IN THE DUBIOUSLY CANON SEQUEL TO THE ORIGINAL COMIC AND ITS EPILOGUES!!!!!!!

You struggle to calm yourself.

This feels like taking a dumb over Hussie’s work. John doesn’t deserve this shit! I mean, we are talking about the guy who was with us from the very beginning! He is considered the main character of Homestuck! And now what? We are supposed to dumb him to the trashcan like some worthless filth?! After 8000+ pages of Homestuck?! All over one version of him that never appeared in official media?! Never had a single page with her showing up?! Never spoke?! What is wrong with you people?!

I’m not saying that you shouldn’t draw June. You want to draw her? Great, good for you. There are many drawings of her that I love. But please, don’t spread the idea of June at the cost of John himself. Both John and June can coexist together.

I am not however ending on the negative vibe. I’ll go more neutral to tell you my headcanon look for June, both her normal clothes and her own version of her god-tier clothes to distinct her look from John. So her normal clothes would be just the original John’s clothes that we saw in the beginning of Homestuck. It would basically look like that drawing @sarcasmprodigy did of June wearing cargo shorts or something like that. As for her God-tier outfit, I would change a few things. First, instead of a normal shirt, she would wear a tank-top. Second, her outfit would have more yellow-colored zigzags/ornaments/elements overall. Finally, while still wearing Heir’s pants, June would also wear a puffy ass skirt. It would be hilarious and adorable at the same time.

And, well, that’s it. It’s time for me to leave Calliope’s Insanity Land and Caliborn’s Theory Goldmine.

You stand up. You take a deep breath.

I feel free.

maniacal giggling

Now, there is one last thing for me to do.

See you all next time.

You exit your room.

Bogan: Y̶o̴u̵ ̶k̵n̵o̵w̵ ̷t̸h̵e̵y̵ ̴w̸i̷l̶l̵ ̴l̸i̴k̵e̸,̶ ̶s̵k̶i̷n̷ ̶y̵o̵u̵ ̷a̵l̴i̷v̴e̷ ̴f̴o̸r̶ ̴w̵h̶a̴t̶ ̷y̴o̵u̴ ̷s̴a̷i̵d̶,̶ ̷r̴i̵g̶h̴t̵?̸

I know…

You put a gigantic target wheel on yourself.

AND I DON’T GIVE A SINGLE FUCK ABOUT IT!!! WHOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!

You burst through the exit door screaming “freedom” like Mel Gibson in “Braveheart”

#homestuck #homestuck 2 #homestuck epilogues #john egbert #june egbert

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rvnclwrites · 5 years ago

Text

Romania 1999 Pt 3 (Charlie Weasley x Female MC)

Summary: AU where MC is an American who attended the Ilvermorny School of Witchcraft and Wizardry instead of Hogwarts. Set eight years post graduation (1999) when she finally gets the nerve to travel abroad and follow her dream to be a Dragonologist in Romania. Check out my master list for parts 1 and 2.

Notes: So first of all, I suck and this is set eight years post graduation not nine. I for some reason had a stroke when I wrote part 1 and thought MC graduated in 1990 instead of 91. Oops. Also, I couldn't find any info on whether magical creatures can see Thestrals or what the rules are so what I wrote may not be accurate, but it worked for my plot line so idc lol.

Word Count: ~8000 (No, I’m not kidding. Sorry not sorry 😅)

(Y/N) had started visiting the owlery nearly every morning the following week in hopes of hearing back from one of her friends. Finally on Wednesday, her heart leapt as she cracked open the door and saw Pearl, one of the Sanctuary's beautiful barn owls, with a letter addressed to (Y/N) clamped in her beak. She tore into the envelope as fast as her fingers would allow, leaning against the cool concrete ledge behind her as she began to read.

(Y/N),

I am so proud of you!! I can't believe you're actually in Romania. I don't know what gave you the final push to make the move, but I am SO glad you did. I think this will be great for you, especially considering it's the one job you've talked about since we were third years. How long do you plan on staying? I hope indefinitely- if anyone deserves a place to settle down it's you.

Sorry it took so long for me to get back to you. Things have been hectic since I took on this new teaching job. Can you believe I'm actually a potions professor? Professor Haywood does have a nice ring to it if I do say so myself. Don't worry though, I still have plenty of time for my shop on the weekends. Just let me know if you need any Felix Felicis to help you take on those crazy beasts you're working with. (Or perhaps a small vial of Amortentia if settling down is actually a possibility?? Only joking… sort of.) How's everything been at the Sanctuary so far?

I miss you so much and hope to hear back from you soon. Bea sends her love too!

Love, Penny

(Y/N) sighed as she finished reading, drawing the parchment against her chest. It was nice to know Penny was proud of her. The beautiful blonde had always known what she wanted to do and had her life as a Potioneer planned out since their very first day at Ilvermorny. (Y/N), on the other hand, had been interested in so many different careers in the wizarding world she struggled when it came to narrowing down her options and feeling confident with her decision. Funny how that ended up working in her favor with the way everything turned out...

(Y/N) shook her head clear, not wanting to think about that right now. Reaching out, she stroked Pearl affectionately, realizing this was her first encounter with a magical creature that wasn't a dragon in over two weeks. That was (Y/N)'s only complaint about working at the Sanctuary so far. She was well aware before she accepted the job that owls and Thestrals were the only other creatures permitted on the grounds, but it was an adjustment after having spent nearly two years bonding with all the different creatures back at the Reserve. (Y/N) frowned, feeling the ache in her chest grow, and decided she would have to write back to Penny later. Right now she needed a reminder of just how much she enjoyed being here at the Sanctuary, and maybe she could visit the Thestrals later.

Working alongside Charlie and Hank did just the trick at first. She had purposefully worked through the next two days to keep herself distracted, and it was working fine until now. (Y/N) stilled as Ventus bowed his head to her and flapped his green wings once, creating an all too vivid parallel in (Y/N)'s mind with her favorite Hippogriff back at the Reserve.

"Hello? Earth to (Y/N)?" Hank said, waving a hand in front of her face.

(Y/N) pinched the bridge of her nose in an attempt to ease the sudden pounding in her head. "Sorry, what'd you say?"

"I said I think Ventus here is growing quite fond of you."

(Y/N) forced a smile, admiring the dragon in front of her. "Yeah. Probably helps that he's the nicest one of the bunch." She felt Hank's inquisitive gaze linger on her for longer than she felt comfortable with, so she added, "We should probably get back down for dinner."

Both Charlie and Hank agreed, and the trio followed the path back to the village, joining Scott at their usual picnic table.

"Did you hear that the Wasps got owned by Puddlemere yesterday?" Scott asked as he piled his plate with a second helping of mashed potatoes.

Hank snorted. "No surprise there. I would'a bet twenty galleons on it with how rubbish Wimbourne has been this year." The forty-three year old who had already downed his dinner grabbed a piece of pie from the tray. "Hey Charlie, didn't you play with some bloke on Puddlemere's team?"

Charlie, who was seated beside (Y/N), nodded. "Oliver Wood. He became captain for Gryffindor after I left. Pretty good Keeper."

"Wait, isn't your friend Andre a Keeper too?" Scott asked.

"For Pride of Portree, yeah."

"Bloody hell," Hank said through a mouthful of pie, "and your sister may start playing for the Harpies? With all these connections, you better damn well get us tickets to the next World Cup."

The men carried on with the Quidditch conversation, but (Y/N) was distracted by the mention of Charlie's sister. So far she had only caught wind of a brother named Bill, and now an unnamed sister, presumably younger if she's just now joining the Harpies. Since (Y/N) didn't want to ask about anyone's family outright, she had resorted to making mental notes whenever something was mentioned. Hank had a sister named Chloe, but Scott had never mentioned family, only a friend named Steven.

"How's Andre doing?" Scott asked. "He should come visit again sometime."

"I haven't seen him in awhile actually. I'll probably send him an owl when I go home for Christmas."

(Y/N)'s stomach lurched at the thought of going home for the holidays. She hoped it wasn't uncommon for people to stay here around Christmastime.

"Awh man, you're going home this year?" Hank asked, disappointment etched on his face. "I was hoping Molly and Arthur were gonna come back here for a change. We haven't seen 'em since your siblings stayed at Hogwarts for the Triwizard Tournament."

Molly and Arthur, (Y/N) repeated in her head, adding who she presumed to be Charlie's parents to her mental list. She was surprised to find herself a little disappointed too. She would have liked to meet them.

"Seriously, that cake she made was the best I've ever had," Scott added, patting his stomach. "Plus it's always fun to get the scoop on Charles' childhood."

So his parents were still together and his mom was a great baker, maybe even a housewife since he apparently had so many siblings. From the sound of it, Charlie seemed to have a big, happy family. Of course he did.

"Are your parents gonna visit, (Y/N)?" Scott asked as he refilled his glass of Pumpkin Juice.

An anxious chill scattered across (Y/N)'s neck, traveling all the way down her back and legs. She hoped to God she didn't look as alarmed as she felt, and she shrugged in an attempt to ease some of the tension between her shoulders. "No, my parents and I aren't that close." She kept her tone casual, not wanting anyone to think it was a big deal. "But I'm sure my friends will sometime," she added for good measure. Even though her parents would never come here, Penny, Rowan, Barnaby or Jae might visit her someday.

"Don't you have any siblings that wanna come?" Hank asked, forking the last of his pie into his mouth.

(Y/N) stilled, feeling the color drain from her face. She shouldn't have been surprised. In all honesty, she was more surprised she had managed to make it this long without it coming up. For a split second, she considered lying- it's not like they would know the difference if she said she was an only child. But these guys were her friends, and she didn't want to lie to them.

Swallowing, (Y/N) looked down at her plate and scooped the last of her mashed potatoes onto her spoon. "Unfortunately my brother passed away several years ago."

"Oh shit," Hank said, his blue eyes going wide. "Sorry to hear that."

(Y/N) offered a smile, not wanting anyone to feel uncomfortable. That was always the worst part. "Don't worry about it. It was a long time ago."

Hank wiped his mouth with his napkin. "Were you two close?"

"About as close as your average siblings. We loved each other but did our fair share of arguing," (Y/N) said with a laugh. To her relief, Hank and Scott joined in laughing.

"Chloe and I used to torment each other all the time," Hank began before diving into a story of the best prank he ever pulled on his younger sister. (Y/N) let out a breath, grateful that they hadn't made a big deal of it. She was surprised, however, when she turned and found a certain dragon lover's gaze piercing right through her. Had Charlie been staring at her this whole time? Why was he looking at her like that?

(Y/N) kept her focus on Hank and Scott but could feel the redhead's eyes on her for the remainder of dinner. As Hank got to his feet, (Y/N) quickly followed, feeling oddly vulnerable. She desperately hoped her mentor wasn't about to start treating her differently- or worse, about to start asking questions.

"Anyone up for a game of Gobstones or Wizard Chess?" Scott asked, downing the last of his Pumpkin Juice. When his eyes flicked to (Y/N)'s, she shook her head.

"Sorry, but I'm actually going to fly for a bit before it gets too dark. I'll be up in the west wing if you guys need me."

Hank and Scott waved as (Y/N) went to retrieve one of the brooms from the storage shed by Aro. She made a point to not look at Charlie, not wanting to know if the confusing redhead was still staring at her like that.

As (Y/N) disappeared up the hill, Charlie reflexively glanced toward the west wing, the winding pathway and herds of workers just barely visible in the distance.

"Would you look at that," Hank said, stepping up beside him. "Yet another thing in common. You're running out of excuses, Weasley."

Charlie remained silent. He hated whenever Hank was right.

"That nagging voice in the back of your head asking if you should go talk to her?" Hank continued, crossing his arms over his chest. "Yeah, you should try listening to that for a change."

(Y/N) loved flying, but the real reason she was heading to the west wing was to see the Thestrals. The manufacturing team used them to pull carts and even flew on them occasionally since dragons couldn't see them.

As the creatures' resting spot came into view, (Y/N) lowered her broom handle, dismounting gracefully onto the secluded clearing. The area was easily one of the most beautiful and serene that (Y/N) had found at the Sanctuary so far. The sound of water from the creek greeted her ears, the steady stream leading into a dense forest ahead. Not many dragonologists seemed to approach the Thestrals when they were off duty. Whether it was because her coworkers couldn't see them or because of the bad omen myths about them, (Y/N) wasn't sure, but she was more than grateful for it.

Five Thestrals were there, two laying in the grass while the other three stood idly by, stomping their hooves and flapping their bat-like wings occasionally. (Y/N) didn't hesitate to approach the nearest one, watching closely for any sign of protest before stroking it's long, bony muzzle. The Thestral nuzzled his head against her hand, and that emptiness in (Y/N)'s chest vanished in an instant.

She stayed there for awhile, sitting in the grass and petting the creature, letting her mind wander to the Reserve for the first time since she'd been there.

"There you are."

(Y/N) whipped around, startled from her reverie and even more startled to see Charlie come into view, the matching Nimbus 2008 clutched in his right hand.

"Is everything okay?" she asked, assuming one of the dragons needed help for the redhead to come looking for her. "Norberta's wound didn't break open again, did it?"

"No, she's fine." He set the broom down beside hers and pushed his messy hair back away from his face. "Mind if I sit?"

(Y/N) blinked at him, wondering momentarily if she had fallen asleep and was dreaming- not that she had ever dreamed about dragon boy before. "Uh no, of course not."

He sat beside her, resting his forearms on his knees, and (Y/N) became far too aware of just how close he was. Sure, Charlie usually sat by her at the picnic table now ever since their trip to the pub, but it was a big table with plenty of room between the two. As (Y/N) stared down at the redhead's beat up jeans, she estimated less than seven inches between their legs.

"So why'd you come here?" Charlie asked, reaching forward and running a hand along the Thestral's back. "I could have sworn you'd be up on the landing. Took me awhile to spot you down here."

(Y/N) blinked again, her eyes following his hand before darting up to meet his curious gaze. He could see them. He could see the Thestrals. She bit the inside of her cheek hard, using all of her willpower to stay silent. She wanted to know more than anything, but how do you politely ask someone who they had seen die? You didn't.

"I like visiting the Thestrals," she admitted, glancing back to the creature resting on the ground. "Don't get me wrong, I love dragons, but it's an adjustment only seeing one type of creature everyday." (Y/N) frowned as the image of her Hippogriff returned to her mind. "I, uh, left a lot of creatures back in America."

"Oh. Do you miss home?"

A scoff fell from (Y/N)'s mouth before she could stop it. As far as she was concerned, home was wherever she was working, meaning the Sanctuary was her home now. She looked up at Charlie and wasn't sure why, but something in those big brown eyes made her confide in him. "This is my home now. Closest thing I've got to one anyway."

Unmistakable sadness flashed across Charlie's features. His eyes were fixed on the Thestral, but (Y/N) could tell his mind was elsewhere. "I lost one of my brothers too," he said quietly.

(Y/N)'s attention snapped back to Charlie and guilt swirled around in her stomach as she recalled her earlier assumption. A big, happy family. No wonder Charlie had been staring at her earlier. He may have had a bigger family, but it was broken just like hers.

"Oh." Her mind filled with questions, but (Y/N) knew the first one to ask. "What was his name?"

"Fred." He went quiet for a moment, and (Y/N) understood- she struggled saying her brother's name for an entire year after losing him. "Yours?"

"Jacob." She waited a minute before asking another question, not wanting to overwhelm him. "Was he older or younger?"

"Younger." The redhead rubbed his forehead with his palm before saying, "He and my brother George were twins. I can't even imagine what he's going through."

(Y/N)'s insides twisted, not only at the inconceivable thought of losing a twin, but also at Charlie's choice of words. I can't even imagine what he's going through. How recently had Fred died? "Can I ask what happened?"

Charlie looked down at her, and the sadness in those eyes made (Y/N)'s heart crumple. "Battle of Hogwarts."

(Y/N) sucked in a breath, her jaw dropping slightly. It had only been a little over a year since the battle. She had read about it of course. Even in America, Voldemort's defeat was all people talked about for months. After Grindelwald, Ilvermorny ensured students knew about Harry Potter and the history of one of the darkest wizards of all time for fear of him invading America. But she had never imagined coming so close to it all. Charlie's brother was amongst the fallen who had fought and died for the rest of the wizarding world. She suddenly felt stupid for not putting the pieces together sooner. Charlie had gone to Hogwarts after all. "Did you fight in the battle too?"

The redhead nodded. "My whole family did."

(Y/N)'s gaze flicked back and forth between the Thestral and Charlie. "That's why you can see them," she whispered, reaching a hand out to stroke the creature's muzzle again. "Did you see him- I mean did you see Fred-" (Y/N)'s voice cracked and she looked away, blinking away the tears gathering in her eyes. She hoped he knew what she meant because she didn't think she could get the words out.

"No," he said, and a wave of relief washed through her. "I saw a lot of people die that day, but not my brother. I came in halfway through. I didn't even know he had died until it was all over."

(Y/N) fell silent, unsure of what to say, before deciding to take a risk. She placed her hand on top of his forearm and squeezed, letting her thumb brush comfortingly across his smooth, freckled skin. "I'm really sorry. It's one of the worst feelings in the world and I know nothing I say will make it any better."

Charlie attempted a smile. "You sure? Because talking to you has made it a little better."

It was possibly the worst thing he could have said to her. Butterflies gathered in her stomach and she pulled her hand back, feeling stupider than ever as a smile tried to reach her lips. This conversation was definitely not helping her put an end to the idiotic crush she had begun developing for the redhead.

To make matters even worse, Charlie nudged the side of her knee with his own, causing a cluster of goosebumps to break out down her leg. "Your turn," he said, nodding towards the Thestral.

(Y/N) knew what he meant, but the answer approached dangerous territory. She didn't want to tell him anything, but how could she not after Charlie had finally opened up to her? She just wouldn't tell him the full story.

"My brother was a Curse-Breaker," (Y/N) started, continuing to pet the Thestral. "He went missing while he was at Ilvermorny, and I started looking for him once I got there. It took me awhile to find him, but I eventually did." (Y/N) let out a breath, trying her best to keep the flashbacks from her mind. "But he wasn't the same. He was obsessed with these Cursed Vaults around Ilvermorny and the last one killed him."

Charlie's forehead creased with worry. "You saw him die?"

(Y/N) nodded. "I tried to stop him, but he wouldn't listen. By the time I caught up with him-" (Y/N) broke off and cleared her throat. "Let's just say I wish I hadn't." The sound of thunder began pounding in her ears, and she shut her eyes, giving her head a slight shake as she forced the miserable memory away.

"Life really isn't fair sometimes," he muttered.

"No. But I still think everything happens for a reason."

"Yeah?"

She nodded. "Yeah."

Charlie let out a sigh, and he was quiet for another moment before whispering, "Does it ever get any easier?"

She looked up at him, wanting him to see the honesty in her eyes as she nodded. "Yeah, it does."

"Good. I'm sorry about your brother, and I'm sorry you had to leave all those creatures behind. I couldn't imagine leaving these dragons."

(Y/N) smiled. "You guys make it a little easier."

That brought a smile to the redhead's face, one of his genuine ones that lit up his eyes and tugged on (Y/N)'s heart. "What creature do you miss the most?"

(Y/N) frowned. "My Hippogriff Sirius. I'd never admit it to the other creatures, but Hippogriffs have always been one of my favorites."

"Sirius?"

She internally cursed herself for mentioning the Hippogriff's name. "Uh, after Sirius Black. I was a bit obsessed with him when his whole story came out. Couldn't imagine being in Azkaban for twelve years as an innocent wizard."

Charlie laughed. "I'm technically related to him."

(Y/N) blinked at him, completely astounded. "What?"

"My dad's mom was a Black."

"Oh," (Y/N) muttered, feeling suddenly embarrassed for some reason. "Small world."

"Yeah, I never got to meet him, but my siblings did because of the Order of the Phoenix and since he was Harry's godfather."

"You mean Harry Potter?" (Y/N) asked rhetorically. She knew that's who he meant because it had been all over the papers how tragic it was that Sirius never got a chance to be the father figure that Harry Potter deserved, but she couldn't resist a laugh. "You talk about him like you're friends."

Charlie seemed the least bit fazed by this. "Well, he is my brother Ron's best friend and has been dating my sister for over two years."

"What?" (Y/N) gaped at him, completely dumbfounded. "You mean the Harry Potter might be your brother-in-law one day and I'm just now hearing about it?"

Charlie laughed. "Sorry, I'm so used to him hanging around my family I forget how some wizards see him."

(Y/N) wanted to understand where he was coming from but just couldn't. It was Harry Freaking Potter they were talking about. That would be like saying meeting Newt Scamander was no big deal. She shook her head, still bewildered. "You're insane."

The pair sat there for a little longer as the sun began to set. When Charlie remained quiet, (Y/N) gave into the question that had been nagging at her since he had told her about Fred. "So does this mean we're friends now? Because to be honest, I feel like I've been getting mixed signals for the past two months."

"Sorry about that," he said, rubbing the back of his neck. "Hank's been telling me for weeks I need to get over it, but ever since Fred died it's been hard to let people in."

"A lot of people don't understand," (Y/N) said empathetically. "Nobody, not even my friends, knew how to act around me after my brother died."

"Yeah," Charlie agreed, a sad smile reaching his lips. "It's nice to finally have someone who gets it. And yeah, I'd say we're friends now."

(Y/N) smiled, feeling jitters dance around her stomach. She paused for a moment before peering up at him. "Well then as your friend, can I ask you a personal question?"

Charlie's eyes narrowed in suspicion. "What?"

"So I know you love dragons and all, but you're not like into them, are you?" She bit back laughter at the look on the redhead's face.

He shook his head, laughing a bit too. "Funny. Real funny. Did Hank tell you to ask me that?"

"No…" She bit her lip, unsure how truthful she should be. "A certain blonde may have accused you of being more attracted to dragons than women."

The redhead rolled his eyes but didn't seem the least bit offended. "I swear my dating life- or lack thereof- has been of more interest to people around here than I would have ever imagined."

(Y/N) laughed, and luckily stopped herself from saying, "Can you blame them?" The last thing she was going to do was to admit to Charlie just how good looking and talented he was. "You don't have to talk about it. It's really nobody's business."

Charlie shrugged. "There's just not much to tell. I was pretty much consumed by dragons at Hogwarts. I didn't even have a crush on anyone until my last year."

That wasn't weird. People were allowed to be picky or have other priorities. "Did you two end up dating?"

"Yeah. But it was pretty stupid because I knew I was going to Romania and she was staying close to home."

"Ah."

"So then I came here and was primarily focused on work. And it's not like there was an abundance of options around."

(Y/N) nodded slowly, arguing internally on whether or not to ask the next thought that popped into her head. After a moment, she decided to go for it. "And what about Sydney?"

Charlie shrugged again. "She's nice, I just never felt comfortable around her. She didn't really understand the whole dragon obsession. This is just a job for her. Probably why she made that comment."

(Y/N) wanted to ask if he felt comfortable around her but realized how it would sound in that context. The last thing she wanted was for Charlie to think she was flirting with him. She was not about to ruin their new friendship. "Well, she doesn't know what she's missing. This has easily been the best job I've ever had."

"How many have you had?" Charlie said with a laugh, sounding surprised. "I thought you were a Magizoologist before this?"

(Y/N)'s smile faltered. "I was, but only for the last two years. I, uh, moved around a lot after my brother died. Had quite a few different jobs after graduation."

"Like what?"

"Healer, Potioneer, Wandmaker, and a couple others," (Y/N) muttered with a shrug.

"But you graduated the same year I did. Did you really have a new job every year?"

(Y/N) felt nervous being put on the spot. "No, I told you I spent two years at the Reserve." She elbowed him playfully in attempt to lighten the mood, but he frowned.

"So the longest you've ever stayed somewhere is two years? Does that mean…" Charlie didn't finish the sentence but he didn't have to.

Stomach acid churned in (Y/N)'s belly at the thought of leaving the Sanctuary. "I don't know to be honest. Like I said, this is the best job I've ever had, so you might have a harder time getting rid of me."

This seemed to reassure the redhead. He smiled at her, and (Y/N) knew she was doomed because all she could think about was that it seemed like Charlie didn't want her to leave, and that thought made her way happier than it should have.

Eyeing the darkening sky, Charlie said, "Race you back to the village?" Before she even responded, he was standing up and picking up his broom.

"Hey, you cheater!" (Y/N) called as the redhead kicked off the ground just as she reached her broom. She darted up after him, heading back home, and couldn't help but think that this was going to be the start of one of the best friendships she would ever have.

October and November came and went even faster than the previous months, and (Y/N) couldn't believe how much fun she was having with team. She felt entirely comfortable around all of them now and hung out with Charlie all the time. She was sure, however, to set specific boundaries for herself, not wanting her ridiculous crush to get out of hand. She was hoping it would disappear altogether soon enough and there would be nothing to worry about.

When the first snowfall of the season came one December morning, (Y/N) couldn't wait to visit the dragons and see just how glorious the Sanctuary's scenery looked.

"Hurry up," she groaned as Scott and Hank took longer than usual to get going. Charlie, on the other hand, didn’t disappoint and seemed as ready as he always was. He was definitely a morning person.

"I thought we agreed to start later in the winter," Scott grumbled mid yawn, pulling a hat onto his head and rubbing his hands over the sleeves of his coat. "It's bloody freezing out here."

"The sooner we start, the sooner we get hot cocoa," Hank pointed out even though he too looked less enthused about working.

They started with Gertie and Aro first, feeding them and making sure they had enough areas to stay warm. Most dragons could handle the severe weather due to their love of mountainous regions, but they weren't entirely immune to illness and overall irritation from the drastic change. Certain breeds in particular seemed to handle the frigid climate better than others, and that became clear as they approached Odie, the Antipodean Opaleye.

"Boy he's cranky," Hank said after dodging a second blast of fire from the agitated beast. Odie was refusing to let anyone feed him or even step within 50 feet of him.

Charlie laughed as he guided the raw sheep meat back onto the ground several yards away from Odie. "You probably would be too if you were from Australia."

"True." Hank stepped away from the rock he had hid behind, his eyes never leaving Odie in case another burst of flames came his way.

"I hate to be the bearer of bad news," (Y/N) began, eyeing the purple patch covering the dragon's right ear, "but I think it's more than him just not liking the weather. I think he's developed frostbite from it."

"Shit," Scott grunted as his gaze followed (Y/N)'s. "I told you guys we should have made them wait until Spring to ship him here."

Hank slid his wand back into his pocket and turned to Charlie. "Guess I should go nag the research team to help us stun him. Should I get Logan or Felix to heal it?"

Charlie looked from Odie's ear to (Y/N). "Can you do it?"

(Y/N) craned her neck to see the full span of the injury. "If I can somehow get within five or so feet of him then yeah."

"Five feet?" Hank pointed out, quirking an eyebrow.

(Y/N) groaned in exasperation. They loved mocking her American ways. "One and a half meters, whatever. I think you should use the freezing charm instead though."

"Are you mad?" Scott spat.

"If we stun him we risk him not eating for another hour. Dehydration and starvation will only make the frostbite and his attitude worse."

"Can't we use the body-bind curse instead?" Scott asked. "I'd feel far better about you getting so close if he was more restrained."

"And traumatize him while he's hurting?" (Y/N) asked, flinching at the idea.

Scott turned to Hank, clearly looking for backup, but the forty-three year old shrugged and started toward the pathway. "It's your funeral, darlin'."

Five minutes later, Hank came back with Logan and Dave to help with the charm. "Six of us should do it, don'tcha think?"

The rest of them nodded. Half a dozen were usually plenty to subdue a more timid breed like Odie.

"You sure you want to do this?" Charlie asked, handing (Y/N) his gloves. "It's not exactly the safest task in the world."

She smiled at him, sliding the brown material over her hands. "If I wanted safe, I hardly would have picked this career."

He chuckled, seemingly satisfied with her answer. "I've got your back."

(Y/N) hated when Charlie made comments like that. They were crossing far too many of her boundaries and made her insides tingle in a way she wished it wouldn't. Still, she put on another smile and withdrew her wand. "You better."

The six of them lined up and waited for Odie to lay down. As soon as he was comfortably resting on the snow-covered ground ahead, they all shouted, "Immobulus!"

(Y/N) darted forward, unsure of exactly how much time she had, and moved to the dragon's right side, staying as far away from his mouth as possible. With a complicated wave of her wand, she used the hot-air charm first, letting a gentle mist of steam warm the affliction. As soon as the proper pearl color returned to Odie's ear, she performed two healing charms on the injured ear and one charm on the opposing ear to prevent it from facing the same fate later.

"Hurry up," Scott warned. "Or we'll have to do it again."

"No, I'm good," (Y/N) said, catching sight of the slightest movement of the dragon's arms. Just as she stepped back, Odie unfroze completely, standing up and flapping his wings. (Y/N) was almost out of the danger zone until his giant white tail flicked once behind him, hitting her thighs and sending her falling backwards. She winced as her back hit the ground, knocking the wind out of her momentarily and shooting her wand into the air. Luckily, the snow helped ease her fall and she recovered quickly, automatically reaching her hand out and saying, "Accio wand."

Big mistake. Odie's gaze hungrily followed the wand as it flew through the air, clearly mistaking it for potential food. As the wand landed in its owner's hand, Odie's eyes darkened, just now spotting (Y/N) and how close she was.

Knowing no one would be able to subdue or distract him in time, (Y/N) moved faster than she had ever moved before, scrambling behind the only boulder in sight as the Antipodean Opaleye sent a rush of flames her way. She overheard the men in the background attempting to extinguish the blast, but they could only manage to lessen the blow. She ducked as close to the snow as humanly possible, but she was so worried about her head, she forgot to move the hand resting against the rock. Pain seared the back of her left hand as the flames reached the glove, and she jerked it away, tucking her whole body behind the boulder. When she heard Scott and Hank taming Odie, she relaxed, sitting up and yanking off the glove to examine the reddened, already blistering skin. Their gloves protected them as much as possible but could only do so much against such direct contact with fire.

A familiar head of red hair came into view as Charlie crouched down beside her. "You okay?"

"Almost," she said before letting out a sigh of relief as she rested the back of her hand into the snow. She couldn't help but laugh a little, still feeling jolts of adrenaline course through her body. "Would you think I'm utterly insane if I said I'm even a little excited about my first potential scar here?"

A grin spread across Charlie's freckled face. "Not one bit." He stood back up and extended a hand to her. "Come on, let's get that cleaned up."

(Y/N)'s hand started feeling better after burn-healing paste was applied. She continued working for the rest of the day while Hank and Scott profusely commended her readiness and ability to stay calm.

"I could have sworn you were gonna lose your eyebrows like Scott did his first year," Hank had said, ruffling Scott's hair while Scott jerked away.

"It was only one eyebrow and that only happened one time."

The team retired early and (Y/N) was in her kitchen, enjoying a cup of tea and trying to ignore the occasional twinge in her hand, when there was a knock on her door.

"Come in," she called, and she was instantly annoyed by the flip in her stomach as Charlie's silhouette came into view. He was wearing a knitted crimson sweater she had never seen before with a dragon embroidered in the middle. None of them wore nice clothes much since they were usually out on the field, and she tried to avert her eyes, not wanting to admit to herself how well it suited him.

"Figured you could probably use some more of this," he said, closing the door behind him and setting a fresh bottle of the burn-healing paste onto the table.

"Thanks," she said, smiling up at him. "Want a cup of tea?" His eyes glanced uncertainly to the auburn liquid steaming in her teacup and she laughed. "Relax, I have milk and sugar if you want it."

He smiled. "Sure then."

"You Brits are weird," she muttered, moving toward the kettle as Charlie took a seat on the wooden loveseat off to the left and let his eyes wander around her place. The pair had hung out a lot, but not so much in each others' houses, and (Y/N) suddenly felt nervous.

She poured a second cup of tea and grabbed the burn-healing paste from the table before joining Charlie in the section of the room that would be considered the living room. She did, however, decide to sit in the chair adjacent to the loveseat. Boundaries.

"Thanks," he said, accepting the mug from her and leaning back into the cushioned seat. "You did really great today."

"All in a day's work," she said casually, feigning boastfulness with a shrug of her shoulders.

He laughed and set the teacup down on the coffee table in front of them. "You gonna put more of that on or am I going to have to do it for you?" he asked, indicating the bottle next to his mug.

Boundaries, boundaries, boundaries, (Y/N) repeated over and over in her head. As much as she hated to admit it, the tiniest part of her understood what Sydney had meant. Charlie was a little clueless when it came to how words and actions could be interpreted. "Okay, mom."

"I just know how much it hurts going on at first."

He wasn't wrong. It stung like a bitch the first time she applied it after the incident, but she wasn't about to admit that. She had a relatively high pain tolerance and was a little too prideful when it came to her resilience. "It's not that bad."

"Oh really?" He picked up the bottle and offered it to her. "Go ahead then."

She stared at it, trying to convince herself that it was like ripping off a bandage, but in the end she didn't want to do it.

Charlie grinned. "That's what I thought." He opened the bottle and poured some of the potion onto his palm.

"What are you doing?"

The redhead moved in front of her, sitting on the edge of the coffee table before reaching for her hand. "Doing it for you. We need your hand better before Monday."

The word BOUNDARIES blared in (Y/N)'s head like a siren, complete with flashing red lights, bells and whistles. She pulled her arm away, attempting a laugh. "I can do it myself," she insisted, trying to snatch the bottle away from him.

This didn't seem to deter him in the slightest. He just stared at her, a half smile on his lips. "And people say I'm stubborn."

She kept her eyes locked on his, refusing to be the first to break eye contact.

"Technically it's only fair,” he added, “considering I let you help me.”

Shit. That son of a bitch cornered her. She glowered at Charlie, feeling defeated as she pulled her sleeve up and extended her left arm.

"Was that so hard?" he asked right as he brushed the potion across the back of her hand, making (Y/N) wince as the orange paste fought to heal her burned flesh. The pain lasted no longer than a minute though and was soon replaced by jolts of electricity at Charlie's touch.

It was less than five minutes before Charlie screwed the cap on the potion and set it back onto the table, but (Y/N) was more concerned with the fact that he didn't return to the couch. Instead, he pointed to the scar along her forearm. "I've wondered how you got that for awhile now."

"Oh, I had to fight off a Chimera once. He got a good slash in but don't worry, I won." Her gaze instinctively flicked to his eyebrow. Her rules were screaming at her to resist the urge, but he had touched her hand first. It was only fair. She reached up, briefly brushing the pad of her thumb across the small scar that separated his left brow. "Your turn."

The redhead cracked a smile, raising his own hand up to touch the scar. "Why does everyone have to ask about this one? It's actually the least exciting of them all."

"Try me."

"Okay… my brother Bill and I wanted to try and play Quidditch once when we were little. He started teasing me, saying there was no way I could ride an adult broom, so I took it from him. Needless to say I fell, but I actually would say I did fairly well considering I was only five."

(Y/N) laughed, unable to ignore how cute a stubborn five year old Charlie had to have been. "No fair. I can't believe you got to ride on a broom that young. My mom would have had my head."

Charlie laughed. "I never said I didn't get in trouble for it."

The pair talked for a little while longer before (Y/N) said, "I like your sweater by the way."

Charlie arched a brow, following her gaze and pinching the knitted material between his fingertips. "You mean jumper?"

"Ugh, whatever." (Y/N) let her head fall back against the chair and Charlie chuckled. At least it wasn't as bad as finding out Brits thought you were talking about underwear when you said pants. (Y/N) had reiterated the word trousers until it stuck in her mind for good. “Where’d you get it?”

The redhead looked a little embarrassed. "Uh, my mum made it."

That was probably the cutest thing (Y/N) had ever heard in her life and she didn’t know which was worse- the fact that Mrs. Weasley was perfect enough to knit her children sweaters or the fact that Charlie was the type of son who actually wore them. "When are you leaving to go see them?"

"Probably a few days before Christmas. I usually stay for about a week."

(Y/N) hoped her disappointment didn't show on her face. She knew Hank and Scott were going to be there, but she was going to miss Charlie.

"Are any of your friends coming to visit you?"

(Y/N) frowned. "Not until early next year. A lot of them are stuck at work or visiting their own families."

Charlie nodded and looked like he had something else he wanted to say.

"What?"

He peered up at her, and if (Y/N) wasn't mistaken, a subtle tinge of pink highlighted his freckled face. "You could come to the Burrow with me if you want."

(Y/N)'s heart stopped. As her mind caught up with his offer, she waved a hand at him. "Oh no, that's okay. Don't worry about me, I'll be fine here."

Much to her dismay, however, Charlie didn't let it go like she thought he would. "It really wouldn't be a big deal. There's already nearly a dozen of us so there's always plenty of food. And to be honest, Christmas is a bit dismal here at the Sanctuary."

(Y/N) had no doubt that Christmas would be disappointing here, but this was exactly the sort of cluelessness she had been referring to. Charlie was just being a nice friend, she told herself, refusing to let the offer go to her head. But why was he asking her and not Hank or Scott?

No. She was overthinking it. Maybe he had asked Hank and he had said no because Chloe was visiting. And she already knew Scott said he would hang back to help Hank with the dragons. Maybe he asked the team every year and it was no big deal.

"Uh, I don't know… I'm not sure I could handle meeting Harry Potter. I'd probably embarrass the hell out of myself."

Charlie laughed. "If either of us stands to be embarrassed it would be me. My siblings live to humiliate one another."

(Y/N) fell silent, trying to ignore just how much she would love a chance to meet his family.

"Are you really going to say no to me two days before my birthday?"

"Hey, that's not fair," she said, crossing her arms over her chest.

"I think it is. Think of it as a birthday present."

Why was he being so persistent? This was crossing dozens of boundaries. The last thing she needed to do was fall in love with his family. "What if I already got you a present?"

Charlie's eyes narrowed. "I told you guys not to."

"No, you told us not to buy anything," she corrected before standing up and walking over to her dresser. She opened the bottom drawer, withdrawing a neatly folded sweater before returning to Charlie. "My team gave me this after the Bludger I hit stopped the other team's Seeker and won us the House Cup." She held up the striped blue sweater, showing off the Snitch darting around the center of it. "I never wore it much because let's face it, two Bludgers moving around on it would have been much cooler, but I thought you might like it. I was going to turn it red for Gryffindor and use the enlargement charm on it."

Charlie stared at her, smiling one of those damn smiles- the ones she had become strongly opposed to because of the way they made her feel. "Can I see it on?"

(Y/N)'s eyebrows narrowed inquisitively, but for some reason she obliged, tugging the sweater on over her long sleeve shirt. "Well?"

"I have one word for you," Charlie said, his appreciative smile replaced by an alarmingly playful expression. "Run."

(Y/N)'s eyes grew wide and she darted toward the front door, swinging it open just as the redhead started after her.

After managing to somehow not kill herself on the slushy porch steps, (Y/N) ran toward the west wing, knowing the exact path to take to avoid any dragons. "You're insane," she called as she heard the redhead’s footsteps behind her, but she couldn't restrain a giggle. Pushing past a tall patch of brush, (Y/N) made her way toward the manufacturing team, passing by crates full of dragon-hide gloves and boxes of dragon heartstrings. She tried to slow him down by knocking a couple empty boxes back toward him, but Charlie easily sidestepped them.

"You're gonna have to try harder than that," he said, laughing as he gained in on her.

(Y/N) was panting hard by now, not used to breathing the cold air into her lungs. She kept running though, set on where she was headed, but her plan came to a screeching halt as the path she was intending to follow was covered with a pile of shoveled snow.

Before she could start running again, Charlie caught up with her, and just as she had anticipated, he tackled her onto the powdery mound of snow.

Neither could stop laughing as they landed in the pile, which was nearly deep enough to consume them both. It wasn't until (Y/N) had wiped the snow from her face and opened her eyes that her laughter died out.

"Gotcha," Charlie said, grinning down at her. He was bracing himself on his forearms to prevent from crushing her, and his face was so close- less than five inches from her own, making her go slightly dizzy. She dropped her head back into the snow, letting her eyelids flutter shut as she tried to steady her racing heartbeat- which was only racing because of all the running.

"Fine, you win," she said, and (Y/N) was more than relieved to feel the twenty-six year old collapse onto the ground next to her. She chanced a glance at him, but it wasn't much better. She still felt every urge to kiss him. "I'll go with you."

The redhead grinned at her, still panting slightly from the running. "Good. I prefer the jumper on you anyways."

(Y/N) knew Charlie just enjoyed messing with her and showing off his Seeker abilities, but that didn't stop her from wishing he meant something else by that.

Yep. She was completely and utterly doomed.

#charlie weasley x reader #charlie weasley x you #charlie weasley x mc #charlie weasley x jacob's sibling #charlie x mc #charlie weasley #hphm #hogwarts mystery #hogwarts mystery fanfic #harry potter #Romania #romanian dragon sanctuary #fic #mine #mywriting #rvnclwrites

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benisasoftboi · 5 years ago

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Unorganised Thoughts on Cindered Shadows:

Spoilers! All the spoilers!

Yeah it took me a week to finish it, as always, I’ve been busy

It’s possible that someone will remember that I’ve made a few of these, and that I said I’d be doing Crimson Flower next, but haven’t. I have finished that route. I wrote something up. It ended up being over 8000 words long. I decided no one would want to read 8000 words of me complaining about fantasy politics, and did not post it

If anyone is interested in knowing in detail what I think about any or all of the following: Edelgard (short version: good in concept, but severely let down by the writing), Fodlan’s politics (surprisingly complex! Which is why the main characters’ having such simple and naive politics is so frustrating!), Rhea and the church (she creeps me out), general opinions on minor things (most controversial: I actually like F!Byleth’s outfit) or various shipping opinions/headcanons (I like pretty much any pairing except Dimitri/Anyone, and Linhardt and Caspar with anybody but each other), give me a shout and let me know. I won’t be holding my breath, but like... if you want me to ramble I wouldn’t say no

Anyway! Cindered Shadows!

New characters ranked by how much I like them as characters, most to least: Yuri, Hapi, Constance, Balthus

Reasoning: I love pretty boys because I am, emotionally, still 12, stoic-type girls are also great and I love her design, she annoyed me a little at first but I thought the sunlight thing was interesting and she eventually grew on me, and I don’t dislike him at all, he’s just the least interesting to me

New characters ranked by how much I like them as units: Balthus, Yuri, Constance, Hapi (ugh, I really like her but she was total deadweight for me)

I’ve always really, really loved the concept of both underground cities and groups of people who have nothing in common aside from being outsiders, bound together by that one shared trait - so I. Love. Abyss. I wish the whole game was set there, it’s so cool

Some really good maps! Actually, let’s review each level:

1: Good intro to the Wolves. Aside from the ‘secret fourth house’ line, which is bad and makes what is otherwise a great concept sound really dumb. But the map itself makes for a very good demonstration of each of the Wolves’s deals. Bit messed up that you kill a bunch of Abyssians and no one really addresses that again, though

2: Even the game comments on the fact that releasing four waves of enemies in a circle gets tiresome. Least favourite

3: Wish the game had been a little clearer of the exact requirements for finishing the map. Also, enough reinforcements to almost be too annoying, but it managed to just avoid that, for me at least

4: This fucking level. I love an escape map in concept, but that goddamn doll at the start. I don’t know how I would have beat it if I hadn’t realised Edelgard can be reclassed out of her armor for better movement (speaking of deadweight units... was the same on Crimson Flower, Lord ranking in terms of actual usefulness in battle is Claude > Dimitri >>> Edelgard, and I say this as someone who normally loves defense-based units in video games). Anyway, despite the fact that it took me like six tries, this was my favourite of the lot - partly because it was so satisfying to finally beat, and partly because, like I say, I just love the concept

5: Breather level, thankfully. Cool to see Metodey again. But... why is he there??? I made Edelgard kill defeat him

6: Starts out really hard and gets easier. Biggest problem for me was the Bolting mages. I found that the trick was to use Ashe’s battalion gambit on Byleth and counter from afar with the Sword of the Creator. Map’s a cinche after they’re gone

7: A really, really cool final boss fight, and really great to just get to fight a big monster without having to slog through hundreds of other enemies as well (two per turn is fine, gives characters like Ashe who are too weak to fight the boss something to do). And there’s no way I could find to cheap it like on Crimson Flower (something I had to do then because of Cyril and his goddamn Murder Axe). Only wish it wasn’t the case that half of the Wolves can basically never touch the boss without being insta-killed. Hapi and Constance should have been able to do more than Phantom Aelfric Clean-Up

It was really nice getting to have all the Lords work together. I had Edelgard and Dimitri do a Gambit Boost and it was weirdly emotional

Am upset that no supports were available. Primarily because this would have been a great opportunity to add some side-story exclusive supports between the Lords. I get why they couldn’t do that in the main game, but I think the lack of any connection between them (besides the mostly one-sided Dimitri->Edelgard) is one of the game’s biggest downfalls, and this could have at least compensated a little

At least we got a few conversations in Abyss

Oh I wonder who the traitor could be, who is it, of the five characters we’ve met it couldn’t possibly be the really generic looking old guy who wasn’t in the trailer oh my god I’m so shocked it WAS him this is an unprecedented twist the likes of which we will never be graced with again

Liked getting some back story and an actual name for Byleth’s mother

I want to know how ‘Noa Fruit’ became a thing. Linhardt alludes to it, but I want that lore. Give me the Fruit Lore, Intsys

Also give me Mysterious Woman lore

I’ve said this before, but Gatekeeper x Abysskeeper OTP

Why can’t Yuri and Linhardt support I want them to bond over being smart bisexual pretty boys with grappler best friends (I have a very long mental list of characters who should have had supports together but don’t)

Yuri’s make-up is gorgeous. Love that design choice

The ‘Nabatean Chalice’ reminded me - I’ve kind of always wondered if Nabatea is meant to be a call back to Nabata from the Elibe games, or if it’s just coincidence that they sound similar

Will we ever find out anything about the Crest of Ernest or nah? (Fiver says if ever, it’ll be randomly explained in a Forging Bonds in FEH like three years from now. Wouldn’t put it past them)

So Byleth’s nickname was the ‘Ashen Demon’. And these guys are the ‘Ashen Wolves’. I kind of figured that would come up? Was it a translation thing?

I love how the reasons for each of the Wolves being in Abyss were “I barely escaped execution by the Church for the crime of murder”, “I was experimented on and now have dangerous magical powers”, “I’m the last surviving member of a collapsed noble family” and “I’m in like, so much debt, lol”. Kind of makes me wonder if Leonie ends up down there in some of her endings

Although I hear that there’s actually a little more to Balthus, as revealed by supports. I haven’t seen all of them yet, the only one I’ve looked up was Dimitri and Hapi because those two interacting intrigued me and... I know what I said above, but this might actually be a Dimitri pairing I don’t dislike? What is this???

I’ll watch the rest at some point, but won’t be starting a new 3H playthrough. Rune Factory 4 Special finally comes out next week and the moment my pre-ordered Archival Edition shows up at my door, it’ll be Fire Emblem who? The only dragon I know is Ventuswill, and the only empire I’m worried about is the unfortunately named ‘Sechs Empire’

Although, the fact that Kiel and Caspar have the exact same voice might end up being... hmmm

Eh, I got over Doug and Yosuke Hanamura. It’ll be fine :)

#fire emblem #fe #three houses #fe3h #cindered shadows #cindered shadows spoilers

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popliar · 6 years ago

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bts canon compliant fic links

Canon compliant stories for @flywithturtles!

disclaimer - this is all a bit random, I bookmark so many things and sometimes I don’t remember what I actually thought about them… But they are all readable and worth a click imo.

other posts: fic links

sorted by ship. i support every ship in bts! but some ships i obviously seek out more than others. so sorry if ur fave ship doesn’t show up much!

2SEOK

'Cause Every Time We Touch - kuragecharms (BTS) Hoseok/Seokjin. "“Fuck, it hurts but it feels so good,” Seokjin mumbled. “L-lay down,” Hoseok instructed. With only a moment’s questioning quirk of an eyebrow, Seokjin complied, placing himself face down on the dance floor. Taking in a deep swallow that he knew was himself swallowing down his pride and his nervousness, trying to convince himself that okay, Seokjin is kind of really loud about when he feels good. It doesn’t mean anything sexual. Even though it totally sounds - and now looks - sexual. Hoseok slowly lowered himself down to straddle Jin’s hips, bending forward to bury the heels of his palms into Seokjin’s shoulders and using the leverage of the flat floor to deepen the massage. Seokjin let out an actual scream." 16,700 words.

The Totally Untrue Story of Kim Seokjin - greenet (BTS) Seokjin/Hoseok. "Seokjin is in love with Hoseok. So starting a fwb relationship with Hoseok is possibly not the best idea he's ever had." I'm so here for this. Especially all the stuff about identity and image creation. 8900 words.

JIHOPE

the spaces between the threads - ellievolia (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "When he reaches Hoseok, something catches Jimin’s attention, making him focus. There, just barely peeking out from the waistband of Hoseok’s low slung harem pants. It looks like - it looks like lace, and Jimin’s mouth was already a little dry but this makes it even worse. aka Hoseok likes lace." 5000 words.

lock step - ignitesthestars (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "“You--” Jimin swallows so hard that Hoseok can hear it, even over the sound of his own heartbeat thudding in his ears, too fast. “You really liked my dance, huh?” “I always like your dance.” It’s supposed to be light, reassuring. It drops between them like a goddamn love confession. * Or, Jimin catches footage of Hobi watching him dance. Feelings (and complications) ensue." good. 8700 words.

the one; jihope - joonphases (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "Jimin is it for him." 700 words.

We're Not Boyfriends - weakforjin (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "Everyone in the company, including Bangtan, assumes Hoseok and Jimin are dating. Their manager scolds them for being too obvious after a certain incident and the two are completely oblivious to the matter." a bit dumb but cute. 5500 words.

Open Your Eyes (I'll Be Waiting) - roebling (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. "Hoseok thinks it's equal measures adorable and horrifying that Park Jimin has a crush on him. Jimin is just a kid, and his crush invites awkwardness that Hoseok doesn't need while he's struggling to debut. It's not pretty, but he clears the air between them and things are fine -- until the day he looks up and realizes that Jimin isn't a kid any more." gets canon details flat wrong but has a really good vibe. 14,500 words.

it goes like this - Quettaser (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. "and jimin’s a little embarrassed, making vague noises of agreement and it takes hoseok turning his head to notice the way jimin is very pointedly staring at the ceiling and nowhere else. he reaches out to smack jimin on the arm, “yah, jiminnie, don’t tell me you’ve never kissed anyone.” “i’ve kissed people,” jimin mumbles, “just not a lot"" 1300 words.

Touch Me, Just Like That - runkairun (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "Hoseok craves physical affection, and Jimin's touch is just right." Soft! 5600 words.

Running Low on Know-How - Zee (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "Hoseok realizes a few things, but it takes him a while." 7100 words.

hold your breath (we'll be just fine) - undercoverjikooks (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "It was different. Deeper than that. Didn’t Jimin know? (or, alternatively, Hoseok has no idea what he's feeling and Jimin is there to listen and maybe help him out.)" 2600 words.

Maybe it Didn't Start Innocently - secondgrader (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "It was all innocent, platonic. But at what point do you draw the line between helping out a friend and doing something more?" 2100 words.

distant love - flowerstems (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. "When Hoseok says, “I thought you’d sleep better without someone lying awake beside you,” Jimin looks up at him, hand still in his, then slides his fingers between Hoseok’s. Jimin’s fingers are cold and clammy but his palm is warm, and in that moment it’s all very confusing, so Hoseok starts swinging their arms and Jimin helps swing them higher." 2300 words.

You're Right. - joonphases (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. “I can’t kiss my hyung,” Jimin said, wondering how it was that he could speak without oxygen. “That’s... weird.” “You’re right,” Hoseok said. A beat of silence. “It’s really, really weird.” Jimin has night terrors. Slow burn from experimenting to fwb. 82,600 words.

Mile High Club - notoverthatbityet (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. "Where Jimin is thirsty and just can't wait." 3300 words.

Nirvana - cupan_taetae (BTS) Hoseok/Jimin. One night after a win, they get drunk and later on start hooking up secretly (later revealed: not very secretly). Some great descriptions. 57,200 words.

the plan - wingedseok (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. "Kim Taehyung’s brilliant plan for Park Jimin to get into Jung Hoseok’s pants: Step One - Admit Your Feelings Step Two - Find Out What He Likes Step Three - Show Him You Can Take Care of Him Step Four - Meet the Parents Step Five - Seduce Him (Or, Jimin’s head over heels in love with Hoseok and Hoseok only sees him as his cute dongsaeng.)" 4100 words.

calm like you - phoarda (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. "Jimin already kind of knew that his home was more person than place, but for Hoseok, infatuation is a slow, frightening realization. Turning feelings into words is more for his benefit than Jimin's, but with the help of instant ramyun, a complimentary hotel face mask, and several massages, they're eventually able to work out some mutual peace of mind." 14,500 words.

Make You Mine - weakforjin (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. "Jimin's in love with Hoseok. He’s content with the affection the other gives him and settles for nothing more because why would Hoseok feel the same? Title is based on the song 'Make You Mine' by Us the Duo. Another one of those pining tropes with a ridiculous amount of fluff and a bit of light angst." 8000 words.

Responsive - RedKissAFF (BTS) Jimin/Hoseok. "What the hell? Hoseok thought to himself, resting a hand against the younger's thigh. Jimin's leg suddenly stopped bouncing. His muscle tensed beneath the touch, a slight shift in movement that would have otherwise gone unnoticed but for how hyper aware Hoseok was at the moment. "You okay, Jimin?" he asked, squeezing the muscle in his hands as he rubbed maddening circles into Jimin's thigh. "Y-yeah," Jimin replied, a little breathless as he shifted behind him. Hoseok leaned his head back, an upside down, cherry cheeked Jimin in his field of vision. Well fuck, he thought." Long languorous OTP wallow as they sort of slide into sex and a relationship. 38,800 words.

It's Just a Ride - im_your_hope (BTS) OT7, Jimin/Hoseok. "Jungkook’s mouth is hanging open, a bright pink flush on his cheeks, his eyes glued to the movements of Hoseok’s finger. Jin is leaning forward with his forearms resting on his thighs, his face more composed but clearly interested in the proceedings all the same. Namjoon’s eyes are so wide it would be funny in a different situation, his lips pursed together and his hands clenching his knees. Yoongi’s mouth is just slightly open, the corners of his lips turned up, close to becoming a full-blown smile. Next to Jimin Taehyung is leaning forward, a look of intense concentration on his face, studying every one of Hoseok’s movements. Jimin doesn’t want to think about his own expression. (Hoseok tries to come untouched.)" 3500 words.

It's Dead, We Killed It - prandcocaine (BTS) Namjoon/Seokjin, Hoseok/Jimin. "Bangtan's newest company-imposed torment drains their hearts, minds, and wallets." swear jar.

JIKOOK

feel a little more (and give a little less) - jellyfishes (BTS) Jungkook/Jimin, Hoseok/Yoongi. "Jeongguk spends a lot of time thinking about Jimin in the eight years following BTS disbanding for someone who isn't still in love." 18,500 words

Riptide - peppermint_wind (BTS) Jungkook/Jimin. "Jeon Jungkook is still just a kid when he sets out for Seoul. He knows about the tall buildings, the maze-like roadways, and dorm life he's signed up for. He expects the difficulties of being a trainee, finds it in the holes of his worn out dance shoes and countless sleepless nights. But what he doesn't expect, could never expect, is meeting Park Jimin. It's then Jungkook realizes that there's more to learn in Seoul than dance choreographies: about growing up, falling in love, and about himself. A three year story [2013-2016] of coming together, breaking apart, and putting each other back together again. Jeon Jungkook learns about change, growing up, and the hardships of falling in love with a friend." good, but it also made me sad about their lives as idols. 62,400 words.

Figuring It Out as We Go - peppermint_wind (BTS) Jeongguk/Jimin. "Jungkook never thought this would happen to him; eighteen years old and questioning everything he used to know. Staying up late watching gay music videos with wide-eyes, phone tucked to his chest, probably isn't helping him much, either, but what is he supposed to do when he realizes seeing two men together makes his whole body ache?" 4200 words.

Late Night, Early Morning - cest_what (BTS) Jungkook/Jimim. "Jungkook just wants somewhere to sleep." Bedsharing. 1500 words.

JINKOOK

Emeralds on the Pavement - timesuck2000 (BTS) Jungkook/Seokjin. "Sometimes when Jeongguk looks at Seokjin he feels like his body is made of bees. He knew it sounded dumb when he first thought it, but it’s the closest he’s been able to get to describing the feeling. The one where Jeongguk has a lot of feelings that he's bad at expressing." 8100 words.

Maybe He Snapped - merryofsoul (BTS) Jungkook/Seokjin. "Five times Jungkook tries to flirt with Seokjin, and one time Seokjin finally gets it." 4700 words.

stop, rewind - vppa (BTS) Seokjin/Jungkook. “We’re not dating.” Seokjin sits up on his elbows and stares Yoongi down to make a point. “Definitely not.” This is worth reading as a history of the group and Jin as much as a ship fic. The ship gives it it's arc but it's really good because of how it works with canon - so many references and callbacks!! 10,700 words.

JUNGHOPE

You Showed Me The Reasons - SevenSoulmates (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "Hoseok wants to leave. Jungkook does everything to stop him." this does kind of a nice swoopy thing where jk talks about the future and sees the future and it's his faith in that that makes hobi stay. 7000 words.

Like No One Is Watching - knjooniemoonie (inaweoftheirvoices) (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "With how fast their lives have become, Jungkook often feels the need to slow things down. There are moments that make him stop and think: This. I want to remember this. Because he knows there’s no way he’ll be able to remember everything they’ve experienced so far, and it’s sad. He wants to be 90 years old someday and sit on his porch and think back to the time when he had his first stadium concert, attended his first award show, sang live for the first time. He wants to be able to point at physical evidence and say “I did this. This was real.” Everything moves so quickly and is over way too soon, so sometimes all he can do is press record on his camera and hope to capture the moment he’s in. OR Jungkook decides to make a video for Hoseok's birthday. In the process he realizes his feelings might not be entirely platonic." GCF!!! 8200 words.

I'll be Home For Christmas (If Only in my Dreams) - babyboymatt (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "or the four times Jungkook hides and the one time he doesn't" very cute. 2700 words.

of white lies and autumn leaves - ffairyy (BTS) Jungkook/Hoseok. "“Fuck that,” Jungkook slurs. “I’m not less grown up just because I haven’t had a relationship yet. Right Hyung? It doesn’t matter. It doesn’t make me uncool.” or the pretend dating fic where the boys make fun of Jungkook for being inexperienced and Hoseok jumps to his defense" VERY SWEET 34,000 words.

rehearsed steps, empty stage - bluestarlight (iridiumring92) (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "Hoseok has wanted Jungkook for what feels like forever. He can't keep his mind off Jungkook’s lips, his smile. Lips on the rim of a glass, teeth showing as he grins. His dyed hair falling over his forehead in those little waves. He’s so cute, so sweet. And he’s theirs, Hoseok reminds himself. He’s their maknae, not Hoseok’s to have." 10,000 words.

for you i would cross the line - starbrigid (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "'I've had a crush on you since before we debuted, but I've only just realized I'm in love with you.' The one and only J-Hope has acquired a secret admirer in BTS. He's in London, and it's time to play Sherlock Holmes. ...It goes about as well as one might expect." 9600 words.

not a booty call - ffairyy (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "They’re still themselves, still friends, still all those things they need to be during the day.Right now, they're also a little in love." 3700 words.

In Fear and Faith - im_your_hope (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "It's hard to shake something that is already under your skin." showers and bed sharing. 4800 words.

Like Snow, Like White Ashes - ashardoffreedom (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "“I’m not sure if there’s an easy fix.” Do you want me to help you fix it? Jungkook looks up at the ceiling. It’s very white. It’s very pure. “Hyung, maybe you’re not supposed to.”" asexual JK. 4500 words.

sparkles in his eyes - ffairyy (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "There are 20 hours left of the year and Hoseok spends them with a bunch of regrets, some nostalgia and his six favorite people. (+ pining after the boy with sparkles in his eyes)" 5300 words.

27 Kisses - lenaklx (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "Jeongguk developed a habit of giving Hoseok a cheek kiss before every performance. Hoseok was getting tired of not knowing what the hell that meant." 2500 words.

Bloodflows - mnsg (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "Sharing a bath at 3AM with all 178cm of Jeon Jeongguk is at least one of Hoseok's ideas of torture." 2200 words.

bored stiff (out of my brains) - loafers (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "Jungkook gets bored. The devil finds work for idle hands." PWP. 3800 words.

another life - Acavall (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook. "Jungkook and Hoseok talk alternate realities amidst fake kitchens. JungHope fluff from the day they went to Ikea in Sweden and then nearly got arrested for setting off the fire alarm." 2700 words.

notion - shikae (39smooth) (BTS) Jungkook has a crush on Hoseok. 1300 words.

Social Animals - nivo (BTS) Jeongguk/Hoseok. "For all his caution and common sense in most areas of life, Hoseok doesn't have a lick of self-preservation when it comes to putting his trust in people." Just Jeongguk being there for Hoseok. 1000 words.

all because of you - xxdevilishxx (BTS) Jungkook/Hoseok. "jeongguk frowns, ruffling his own hair, and whispers, "even if you’re j-hope in front of the fans, you don’t have to play that part in front of the rest of us. i like hobi hyung a lot, but i like hoseokie hyung even more.” (based off festa 2016 where the anonymous letter for hoseok stated how sometimes he made the members uncomfortable by being too happy and excited)" 7300 words.

the underlying rhythm - actualflowerhoseok (BTS) Jungkook/Hoseok. "When the hostess asks him, “Who’s your favorite hyung?” Jungkook knows he’s supposed to say Jimin. But he doesn’t." 1100 words.

MINJOON

hotel walls - deadmansbones (BTS) Namjoon/Jimin, Yoongi/Hoseok. “um,” jimin begins, breaking the silence, “hyung, should we--uh--tell them?” “i-i don’t think so,” namjoon stutters, “what would we do, just knock on the door?” funny and hot. 4500 words.

NAMGI

stop right next to you - brightlight (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi. "As the years pass, Yoongi can’t help himself from reaching out and holding Namjoon’s hand, when the others can’t see him frowning but Yoongi can. He can’t help himself from sprawling across Namjoon’s lap in the little sofa in the studio, when Namjoon looks so tired and so stressed and there’s only two weeks until the deadline on the next track. He can’t help himself from smiling, pleased, when Namjoon crawls into Yoongi’s bed late at night, muttering that he can’t sleep. They move dorms, gain privacy, change roommates, but Namjoon still keeps coming. Namjoon and Yoongi, through seven years of living together, rely on each other." good! 8800 words.

Play It As It Lays - almostblue (fictionalaspect) (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi. ""You said you've never gotten a blowjob," Yoongi says, slow and long-suffering, like he's speaking to someone who can't understand Korean. "And I said, what the fuck Joon, that's a fucking tragedy." "No," Namjoon says. His throat is dry as he stares up at the ceiling. Is Yoongi just fucking with him? He has to be fucking with him. There's no way he said what Namjoon thinks he said. "No, the part, um. The part after that." "Oh," Yoongi says. He has one arm pillowed behind his head. He closes his eyes, like Namjoon is the dumbest person in the world and it's physically paining him to force the worlds out. "I said, 'Since we're both stuck in here, you might as well let me help you out with that.' Jesus, Joon, do you even listen when I talk?"" 3100 words.

With You (Like Glue) - roebling (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi friendship. "With Hoseok gone for good and plans for debut in shambles, it's just Yoongi and Namjoon left at the dorm. Yoongi's not sure how much more he can take, but while he figures out what he wants to do, he might as well do something to cheer Namjoon up. That's what good hyungs do, right?" 5300 words.

Champagne Supernova - tiny_joon (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi. "The waitress returns toting a silver bucket and a bottle they didn't order. “Now, it’s customary to offer a complimentary champagne toast to anyone celebrating with us,” she says, setting the bucket filled with ice down on their table, “but I just think y’all are so sweet I pulled some strings. Congratulations, to many more!" When Bangtan wins their first big award in the US for their music Namjoon and Yoongi go out to celebrate." cute! 3200 words.

it's not far to go - pearl_o (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi. "Namjoon and Yoongi have been jerking off together occasionally since forever. It's super normal." 2200 words.

let the seasons change your mind - luminari (BTS) Yoongi/Namjoon. "Yoongi won’t pretend to understand Namjoon, but the way Namjoon pretends to understand him makes his skin crawl." really good canon stuff mostly. 16,200 words

i'll be the secret on your lips - cyrillic (BTS) Yoongi/Namjoon. "it hurts, that they’re keeping it a secret, because he wants nothing more than to scream it, when jimin comes into namjoon’s studio unannounced and they have to pretend their fingers weren’t intertwined, or when they have to pretend they’re just waking each other up and not cuddling in bed like the clingy assholes they are. or: namjoon and yoongi's friendship evolves, bit-by-bit, until it's something else entirely." 11,600 words.

All the Stars - bulletproof_bad_wolf (BTS) Yoongi/Namjoon. "The thing about Namjoon is he’s really good at drinking, until he’s not. If you blink, you can miss the shift. It’s that sudden. Yoongi’s blinked lots of times tonight, over the course of the last few hours. He’s had his fair share of the bottle they’ve all been passing around. It’s possible he may have blinked himself into a catnap or two. Either way, he’s awake now." 4300 words.

rocket - boozinos (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi. "Yoongi just wants to know how big Namjoon's dick is, okay." Pretty much! 2700 words.

A Joyful Phrase (I Do) - hapakitsune (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi, Jimin/Taehyung. "“Last question,” the interviewer said. “You’ve been to Las Vegas a few times now. What’s one thing you haven’t done yet that you really want to do?” “Get married,” Taehyung said. Later, at the chapel, Namjoon thought perhaps he should have tried a little harder to talk him out of it." 14,100 words.

NAMJIN

Celebrity Crush - bazooka (BTS) Namjoon/Seokjin. "Right now Namjoon was exhausted and he'd been saying rude shit and he kept snapping at Taehyung and then they'd had to sit through that interview ("Who's your celebrity crush?") and Seokjin had tried making a joke ("Rap Monster," he'd said, thinking he was being clever) and even as everyone around them cracked up the look that had flashed through Namjoon's eyes belied something that looked almost brittle." 16,500 words.

Back Yourself (Look in the Mirror) - KlavierRPF (KlavierWrites) (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi, Namjoon/Seokjin. "“What, does he think that now I’m out I’m going to start rapping about sucking dick?” asks Yoongi hotly, as they’re sat round the table discussing album concepts. Namjoon winces. “I mean,” says Taehyung, “you already do that.” Yoongi comes out first, but he's not the last. In fact, Namjoon's 90% sure he and Jin are the only straight ones." 7800 words.

It's Dead, We Killed It - prandcocaine (BTS) Namjoon/Seokjin, Hoseok/Jimin. "Bangtan's newest company-imposed torment drains their hearts, minds, and wallets." swear jar.

NAMKOOK

butterflies in my mind - misspamela, pearl_o (BTS) Jungkook/Namjoon. "Jungkook was twenty-two years old, he was an adult, a celebrity, and a performer. He had an accountant and a staff of people working for him. He’d been on Ellen, for god’s sake. He could handle having sex with his boyfriend. It was going to go perfectly this time." very sweet. 10,000 words.

now he callin' me nyquil - bazooka (BTS) Jungkook/Namjoon. "It was simpler than getting sleeping pills. It was more effective than taking a hot shower. It was faster than getting up and making tea or heating up some leftovers or whatever in a futile attempt at lulling himself to sleep. It was easier. It just made sense. It had stopped being weird months ago, even though sometimes Jeongguk still had an awkward flash of self-awareness - usually when he was straddling Namjoon’s hips with his face buried in the hollow between Namjoon’s throat and shoulder." 1900 words.

NAMSEOK

Bring Me Back Down to Earth - Katuize (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon. "Sometimes Namjoon needs someone to get him out of his head. When he needs someone, he goes to Hoseok." caregiving, hurt/comfort. 1100 words.

Like The Moon To The Sun - AttesTaetion (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon. "“Joonie.” It’s said softly. Gently and sweetly. Hoseok is speaking to him the way Namjoon typically speaks to the little animals he comes across during his walks in the park. In a way that’s meant to soothe them. To let them know that he doesn’t mean any harm. Because he cares for them. Because they’re cute and small and he thinks they’re adorable. Basically, Namjoon has a bad day and Hoseok is there to take care of him." 5800 words.

raise me up again - nebulia (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon. "[They have never talked about it. These are the most words either of them has ever said about it outside of sex. Namjoon has always put it in that place between them, the 2% awkward Hoseok mentioned that one time on Kkul FM. He knows silently fucking the only same-age friend in your idol group isn’t normal or anything, but he figured maybe it was just...what happened. They only did it when it could be done not talking, so hardly ever on tour. And Namjoon knows they should probably talk about it, but Hoseok is right that they’re only 98% close. Maybe the 2% is just weird sex.] Namjoon relies on Hoseok a lot, but he never feels like he gives anything back. (He's wrong.)" porn with feelings. good! 10,600 words.

prismatic - mahistrado (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon. "Hoseok takes care of Namjoon. It was the kind of care that hurt sometimes, sure. A spoonful of castor oil kind of love; nasty going down, good from the inside out." just really, really great character work. 6400 words.

Lemonade - rhythmsextion (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon. "In which Hobi intercepts Namjoon wielding a knife and comes to regret it. Or does he?" 3000 words.

Not Just You; I Need This Too - eightninetwo (BTS) Namjoon/Hoseok. "Hoseok wishes Namjoon can see just how beautiful he is despite his flaws." 8600 words.

Blue - hobipd (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon. "So Namjoon likes to poke and prod his bruises... that’s not weird, right? Lots of people do. Right?" mild painplay. pwp with feelings. good! 9100 words.

Within These Walls - Dribbledrabbledos (BTS) Namjoon and Hoseok. "Namjoon thinks about what was, is and will be and gets lost in between." 4000 words.

when i run out of road (you bring me home) - hobisthighs (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon. ""You can catch a quick nap if you want, the kids aren't due to wake up for another 10, and I can fend them off long enough for you to get at least 40 minutes." He considered the offer briefly, but ultimately decided against it, he got himself into this mess he wasn't about to screw up everyone else's morning for a measly 40 minute nap. (or; namjoon is just really thankful for hoseok)" 1200 words.

TAEGI

(I Probably Still Adore You) With Your Hands Around My Neck - mucha (BTS) Yoongi/Taehyung. "The new choreo was a little more than Taehyung bargained for." 4000 words.

Just Hold Me - Incadence (BTS) Taehyung/Yoongi. "This hand holding is for business sake, so they can really all shut the fuck up. If not for Taehyung, Yoongi would probably have long floated away into the crowd and gotten kidnapped or something. So yes, this is one hundred percent for business sake. And the fact that Taehyung’s stupidly warm all the time, and has the prettiest hands have nothing to do with it." 3300 words.

my heart flutters from the sugar high - hoars (BTS) Yoongi/Taehyung. "Yoongi and Taehyung sneak around together, cheating on their diets. The group? They've drawn different conclusions." CW: dieting/food. the story is otherwise very cute. 6000 words.

how can i make you mine? - hoars (BTS) Yoongi/Taehyung. "The five times the members interrupt or delay Taehyung's great confession and the one time a confession is spit out. Kind of." 5400 words.

TAEJIN

my best decision - madanach (BTS) Seokjin/Taehyung. "“You’re a menace,” Seokjin says. “You come here—you wake me up from my sleep—to do these things versus me. To do the things that you do, against me, specifically.” “All I did was call you pretty,” Taehyung says. “And say that when I was seventeen I wanted to kiss you.”" 3700 words.

TAEKOOK

love in the time of social media - abillionstars (BTS) Taehyung/Jungkook. "“You want me, an internationally famous celebrity living in a restrictive society that would tear apart any news of me dating, to set up a very public Tinder account under a fake name?” Taehyung cocked an eyebrow. “Just thought I ought to clarify.” “Yes,” said Seokjin, looking strangely determined. “Well, shit,” Taehyung said, exiting out of the Words With Friends game. “I’m in.” In which Taehyung doesn't swipe right on anybody at all (except in his heart), goes on absolutely no wild adventures, but ends up falling in love anyway." 23,300 words.

Know You Love Me Boy - arabellarosebts (BTS) Jungkook/Taehyung. "Jeongguk finally confesses something Taehyung's been waiting to hear" 7000 words.

Can't keep my hands to myself (no matter how hard I'm trying to) - sunshineandpixiedust (BTS) Jungkook/Taehyung. "the one where Jeongguk views sexting as a challenge and takes it a little bit too seriously." 11,500 words.

VHOPE

when did my heart become like this? - triplekimsquad (BTS) Hoseok/Taehyung. ""Come on," Hoseok urges gently, moving the pillow aside so he can see Taehyung's face properly. "We've got a busy schedule today." He meets Taehyung's eyes, feels something twist inside his chest at the hopeful pout Taehyung sends him. "Aish," he says under his breath, rolling his eyes — though it comes out fondly despite his attempt at being annoyed. "Yah, that doesn't work on me anymore. I've become immune to that face." It's a bluff really. Years later and Hoseok's heart still melts a little at Taehyung's imploring expression. "Kiss me then," Taehyung says, turning his face and presenting his profile to Hoseok. He taps his cheek twice with his index finger, (still pouting — god it's adorable), "Gimme a kiss and I'll get up." Or, the (5) times where Hoseok wakes Taehyung up by giving him a kiss, and the (1) time Taehyung returns the sentiment." super soft. 12,700 words.

Behind The Masks - mkim (BTS) Hoseok/Taehyung. "“I sleep best when I'm with you,” Taehyung mumbled shyly. A pause. “Is that so?” “Yeah.” “Hm, me too.” Hoseok sighed softly. Then, much more quietly, so faintly that Taehyung wasn't even sure he was supposed to hear it, he added: “What are we doing, Taehyung-ah?” As if being an idol wasn't hard enough, Taehyung of course had to go and fall helplessly in love with his straight bandmate." the author does their utmost best to fit in all the bits of canon into a narrative and it's very compelling and readable. 109,700 words.

i'd hold your hand and soak up the sun - monbon (BTS) Hoseok/Taehyung. "It takes Hoseok almost breaking his nose to start realizing Things. Fortunately, he's pretty chill with it. Unfortunately, Taehyung is confusing." adorable! 6200 words.

blue side - cutaepatootae (elysian) (BTS) Hoseok/Taehyung. "Everyone loves Hoseok. In particular, everyone loves Hoseok's bed, which always smells nice and is somehow softer than all their other mattresses combined. Taehyung knows this because he had taken it upon himself to investigate the vitally important issue of Most Comfortable Bed in Dorm, especially when he realised he could no longer settle for his own less-than-satisfactory bed after sleeping with Hoseok for the past two months. (in which taehyung and hoseok like to sleep together, and jimin is taehyung's no. 1 wingman. also: sexual tension)." 30,300 words.

Hey Jupiter - almostblue (fictionalaspect) (Bangtan Boys) Yoongi/Taehyung. ""Hyung couldn't sleep," Taehyung says, by way of explanation. He feels like some explanation is probably needed for why he and Hoseok are snuggling on the couch together. "Sometimes he can't sleep, and then he comes and gets me and we sleep out here. He says he doesn't know why, but having me around makes it better." Or: the one where Taehyung is completely and utterly oblivious." 6400 words.

through the lonely, through the other side - ronanov (BTS) Taehyung/Hoseok. "20170628 07:14 am" the vante studio photos. 1300 words.

your arms, your warmth, your heart. - capivara (BTS) Hoseok/Taehyung. ""...Taetae?” The dancer breathes out before he can think about it. If there is a time to say it, whatever the outcome, it is now, when they are both on the brim of bursting with the heavy silence weighing down on them, dazedly oscillating between holding onto the ground or sinking deep into the abyss. Because he knows they will forget all about it the next morning." living room confession. 8800 words.

Balsam - ishuku (BTS) Taehyung/Hoseok. "Logic tells Taehyung that the flavor resting on his tongue isn't actually fruit -- but that doesn't stop Taehyung from telling himself that it is." established relationship. porn. 3800 words.

Can't Hide Our Love (But We Can Try) - melecs (BTS) Hoseok/Taehyung. "Four people think Jimin and Taehyung are dating. (Hoseok knows they’re not)." 3900 words.

I’ve been trying (to believe in confiding) - freethedoncastertwo (BTS) Hoseok/Taehyung. "Hoseok struggles and Taehyung is cute and supportive and kissable." Also a cookie is seduced. 2500 words.

asymmetry in attraction - namgi (BTS) Taehyung/Hoseok. "Taehyung yearns for bright smiles, eyes crinkled up in laughter and measured, steady hands. More than anything, he yearns for Jung Hoseok." 3200 words.

VMON

Lovers From The Moon - Zee (BTS) Namjoon/Taehyung, various other pairings. "Namjoon has always kept himself apart from the casual sex that the rest of them have, and Taehyung keeps trying and failing not to let that bother him." WHOLESOME VOYEURISM. 7900 words.

VMIN

A Fault In My Structure - Zee (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "Jimin hasn't seen Taehyung in almost three weeks, and ‘missing’ is not quite the right word for it." 5800 words.

Your love was handmade for somebody like me - tangowithsuga (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "Park Jimin wakes up in Vegas, married to his best friend Kim Taehyung." Cute! 24,900 words.

kissing up on fences (and up on walls, i don't want to fall) - bonnia (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "the five times the other members thought they were dating, and the one time jimin starts to wonder if they really are" 8700 words.

Completely Platonic.... - Toshiba19 (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "The four times that Jimin and Taehyung said they were platonic and the one time they realize they've probably been dating all along." 7500 words.

the one thing that's real - syubnugget (BTS) Taehyung/Jimin. "Taehyung can hear Jimin's little snores, the soft snuffles that he always teases him about when they share a bed. He shakes his head as if he can physically knock the thought out of his own mind. Teased him. When they shared a bed. They're not supposed to do things like that anymore." 4000 words.

till the ocean is folded and hung up to dry (i'll love you, dear) - flightlessly (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "in the quiet aftermath of an on-stage live, jimin decides he's had enough. he takes a gamble. / Sometimes, Jimin finds himself thinking of another life. He exists to take the stage, but every so often a little part of him yearns for something softer, quieter." 1900 words.

(i'm a symphony of the world gone wild) - inthelookingglass (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "jimin and taehyung break out of the dorm to get drunk in a field." Slice of life. 1000 words.

friends help each other - claybunny (BTS) Taehyung/Jimin. "Taehyung has a problem and Jimin, the angel he is, helps him out. Taehyung doesn't know what to do with his feelings and things slightly spiral out of control." Epic fwb pining. 46,900 words.

if the world was ending (would you stay with me) - countingpaths (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "They're always too much and not enough - pushing the boundaries but not breaking them." Vaguely Halloween themed. This is cute because they talk about they'd do in a zombie apocalypse - they'd live for one another, aww. 2800 words.

all of your sides are good - knth (conditionally) (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "It's Jimin's birthday and Taehyung has to do whatever he wants. (Or where Jimin doesn't know what he wants, is what Taehyung wants too.)" Jimin has a fun time ordering Taehyung around but then he realises he wants more. 16,600 words.

A Guide to (Not) Keeping Your Relationship a Secret - skateboardsound (BTS) Taehyung/Jimin. "In which Jimin and Taehyung try (and fail) to navigate a secret relationship in a dorm with five other boys and Bangtan holds an intervention." Adorable! 4500 words.

4 Times Taehyung Fantasized About Jimin’s Thighs and the 1 Time Fantasy Became Reality - skateboardsound (BTS) Taehyung/Jimin. "Taehyung has a thing for Jimin’s thighs. It gets a little out of control." This is good. Includes shaving and a ton of sexual tension. 11,000 words.

Good things come to those who wait (and I've been waiting a while) - nieljoee (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "Jimin makes the unpleasant discovery that Taehyung sleep walks. To make things worst, it seems like he's actively seeking him out." Taehyung keeps sleepwalking into Jimin's bed. 9000 words.

Definitions - cest_what (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "“Have you ever –” Jimin says, and then stops. He lifts his elbow a little and peeks sideways at Taehyung, before he drops his arm over his eyes again." They've kissed plenty of times but Jimin is waiting for the one that actually counts. Really cute. 1000 words.

Sun and Sand - cest_what (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung. "It isn’t as though Jimin’s never thought about kissing Taehyung before." Beach time. 1900 words.

tell me how to make this better - kingenjolras (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung, Namjoon/Jin, Yoongi/Hoseok. Jimin is insecure and accidentally overdoses on anti-depressants, prompting everyone to hash everything out. Very melodramatic. 44,600 words.

YOONJIN

Worldwide Lonesome - loindexter (BTS) Seokjin/Yoongi. "After the BBMA, Yoongi starts bringing guys back to the house." Really good story about coming out and living in the public eye and idol life. Great Jin voice. 40,000 words.

the unreleased album - noctemlux (BTS) Yoongi/Seokjin. "Seokjin had never once believed that love existed in the idol industry, not when they're all hormonally charged young men who spend far too much time together in such close proximity. They had to have release in some way. So it wasn't love, Seokjin tells himself, even if Yoongi said it was." 5500 words.

the night is still young (and so are we) - pagdiwa (neko11lover) (BTS) Yoongi/Seokjin. "Summer 2012. They’re so, so close to debuting. Yoongi knows that he won’t be able to forgive himself if he let Kim Seokjin leave." 6100 words.

My Heart Has Grown Bigger - minvmin (BTS) Yoongi/Seokjin. "The fans have noticed that Yoongi and Seokjin seem to have grown apart and are blaming it on Seokjin; Yoongi wants to show them the truth. Or, five of the many times Yoongi cared about Seokjin, only five that he let the world see." established relationship. 5000 words.

Path/Road - misspamela (BTS) Seokjin/Yoongi. "“I don’t like parties,” Yoongi said suddenly, like he was confessing something. “And I’m pretty sure two people doesn’t really count as a party.” “Well, fine, if you’re going to get pedantic about it.” Seokjin threw his arm around Yoongi’s shoulders. “Then this is the best date I’ve been on in months too.”" early days! good! 2300 words.

YOONKOOK

one thing - darling (BTS) Jungkook/Yoongi. Jungkook has never been on a date so he asks Yoongi to take him on one and pretends it's real. quite sweet. 5800 words.

Past Midnight - jaqueenilini (BTS) Jungkook/Yoongi. “Hyung, where are you going?” he asks casually, positive Yoongi can see right through him. “Studio Jungkook-ah, you know this,” 3500 words.

space - misspamela (BTS) Yoongi/Jungkook. "Jungkook watches the stars and waits." 2300 words.

flower boys - siderum (BTS) Jungkook/Yoongi. "yoongi and jungkook take care of a plant together." 3000 words.

gay panic: the musical - softlyblue (BTS) Jungkook/Yoongi. "Jeongguk is a modern man, and that means he knows exactly who to go to for advice - the internet at large. Help me, he types, and then deletes it. That sounds like he's being held hostage. I think about my hyung when I jerk off Nah, too forward. My bandmate Nah, too identifying. My friend (24m) is very pretty and sometimes I (20m) think about kissing him. What do He deletes the what do bit, and then feels very proud of himself as he hits submit." My fave part was JK seeking advice from Namjoon. 4300 words.

YOONMIN

The 100-Day Love Challenge - jeosheo (BTS) Jimin/Yoongi. "For a variety show challenge, Jimin must tell Yoongi every day for 100 days that he loves him." 19,200 words.

YOONSEOK

simple + clean - jeonbenet (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "Hoseok looks at him, then at the water. “Uh.” “You don’t have to be weird about it,” Yoongi regards Hoseok’s crotch, then back to his eyes. Hoseok laughs, amazed at Yoongi’s ability to make a full-on dick scoping as casual as he just did. “It’s nothing I haven’t seen before.” (Or: Hoseok gets seasick. Yoongi cleans him up.)" sweet. 5600 words.

you give me that rush - sobistars (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "the five times Yoongi goes for round two, and the five times he gets it. // “Hobi, Hobi,” Yoongi says again, grinning as he leans closer, and closer still. “You think it’s hot?” Hoseok nods slightly, still shy and small as he grasps the phone in his hand. “Yeah?” “Yeah, hyung…” Hoseok’s voice is small, the kind of small Yoongi loves when they’re like this. Suddenly he’s full of energy, ready to jump on Hoseok the second he says he wants it too." sweet. 4400 words.

until this cold winter ends - mariephantomhive (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "yoongi always makes sure to chase the cold away, somehow, and hoseok just wants to return the favour for once. or, five times hoseok was cold, and one time he made sure yoongi was not." super soft! 7500 words.

say what you want - ignitesthestars (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "There are a lot of reasons why Yoongi shouldn’t sleep with Jung Hoseok. “You’re always so stuck in your own head.” Hoseok leans in gently, gently, knocking their foreheads together. “It’s okay to just feel. Nothing bad will happen. I promise.” The huge, shuddering breath that Yoongi sucks in at that moment feels too big for his chest, like there’s more in him than his body can contain. I promise, Hoseok says, and Yoongi can feel the truth of that down to his bones." v nice. 7400 words.

show me more - billykaplan (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "Hoseok could never get tired of Yoongi—his words, his kisses, his presence. If his love is a sea, there is no land in sight. Not anymore. Alternatively, Hoseok loves Yoongi, Yoongi loves Hoseok, and they make it work." nice canonverse fic. 19,300 words.

Whirlpool - superrunnaturall (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "what happens on vacation, stays on vacation." 11,200 words.

and the sky's the limit - pearl_o (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "It's two thousand ten (twelve, fourteen, sixteen, eighteen…) and Hoseok has something on his mind." 800 words.

Counting Pandas - anonymousloris (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "He did this sometimes. Talked in his sleep. When he was extra stressed and tense that was. Yoongi always thought that sometimes Hoseok’s body was just so ready to shut down, that it forgot to turn all the lights off before it did. Sometimes it left his mouth on.Usually it was just nonsense mumbles about dolphin embraces.From time to time, he was pretty clear." 3300 words.

even if it breaks down, oh better - misspamela (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "The worst part about Jung Hoseok was that Yoongi had never been able to ignore him." 4500 words.

A simple question - ItsaShrillFeeling (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "Yoongi never imagined himself being in a relationship until he's questioned by an Interviewer about it. He then starts to wonder why the thought never occurred to him, up until now. Which leads Yoongi to start questioning his love life and his role as a friend." 46,200 words.

you were always my favourite - jnghsk (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "A young, 16-year old Hoseok joins BigHit and finds comfort in his new friend Min Yoongi. At time goes on, he knows he's found someone who will be there for him for the rest of his life." 2100 words.

Kiss Me - merryofsoul (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "It's National Kissing Day, so naturally Hoseok has to bestow a kiss on each of his beloved members." 3200 words.

Rub Your Feelings Down My Spine - Only_A_Fangirl (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "He doesn’t let up, his hands getting even firmer, heels of his palms digging into Yoongi’s skin. Yoongi controls his breathing forcefully, but Hoseok can see through him anyway. And this is exactly why Yoongi doesn’t do massages. Yoongi closes his eyes, doesn’t want to see the little smirk on Hoseok’s face. It’s stupid. This lack of self control. When Hoseok kneads the junction between his neck and shoulder, he can’t help the blood rushing between his legs. Just can’t help it." 8000 words.

Or; - malamyszk (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "“Wait – so, you want to have a threesome? With me? And your girlfriend?” Yoongi puffs out his cheeks before releasing the air in a long exhale and settling into a smirk. “Damn Seok-ah. Thought I broke you for a second.” “Shut up. I just – Seriously?” Or; I Want You to Fuck Me & My Girlfriend, a Love Story Or; Fuckboy Min Yoongi, A Study" messy emotions about loving but hurting one another! 37,700 words.

so i'll be your candle, and i'll be your statuette - pearl_o (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Yoongi isn't sure how long they've been talking, exactly, but it's long enough to have gotten pretty fucking deep into the topic, and long enough for his slowly sobering brain to suddenly deliver the message that that hot prickly twitchy feeling is arousal, Yoongi, you goddamn idiot." 3200 words.

still here, both of us, together - Yoonseok_af (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Basically Yoongi getting sentimental and thinking about his relationship with Hoseok. And then Yoongi's thoughts make things happen." Yoongi proposes in Vegas. 3900 words.

Your Voice (My Lullaby) - aloharussia (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "Hoseok starts to think of whatever might have caused this. There wasn’t anything specific bothering him. There weren’t any fights or disturbances within the group. All of it he could blame on stress, but even so the last times he’s gotten to the point of breaking down with stress he was still able to rest, albeit with small amounts. Or; Hoseok can’t seem to fall asleep, and the only thing that can ease him into it is Yoongi’s voice." 9900 words.

Smile For Me, Not At Me - dabbleinthedrabble (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Min Yoongi has a crush on Jung Hoseok. This is a fact of life for him, but not one that he is particularly ecstatic about having had to conceal it for years on end. Upon being on holiday in Thailand he realises something that ruins him further: Hoseok is fucking gorgeous without a shirt. (In which Yoongi is angsty and more than a tad at loss with what to do with his feelings and Hoseok is even worse, and may or may not have a kink for Yoongi's smile.)" 6500 words.

The Stars - bleeding_bangtan (BTS) Yoongi and Hoseok. "In which Min Yoongi wonders if he will ever debut, and Jung Hoseok holds on to the one steady thing in his life." 2200 words.

For you, who is my everything - superrunnaturall (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "“Come on, hyung,” he urged and stood from the couch. “This will all still be here tomorrow. If you really want me to leave you alone, I will, but you did invite me in…” Hoseok pointed out with a small smirk. Yoongi looked up at him from his swivel chair as Hoseok got closer and stood between Yoongi’s legs. “So, what do you wanna do, Yoongi?” (Yoongi, Hoseok, and the Genius Lab)" fluffy smut. 9400 words.

Again - sixtieshairdo (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. They're together and fighting, but reconcile. 2000 words.

it's just a sweet, sweet fantasy - Yoonseok_af (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "We all have those little secrets we’re to ashamed to reveal, even to the people we trust the most. Min Yoongi had two secrets. First of all, he had a massive crush on his friend and bandmate Jung Hoseok. Yoongi found a solution that became his second little secret. Every now and then he’d lock himself in his studio or lay in bed, covered with a blanket, and... read fan fictions." unexpectedly cute! 4400 words.

Little Prince - Sobioppa (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. ""You slept so well, you looked like a little prince." Hoseok is Yoongi's sleepy little prince." 2600 words.

if found please return to - misspamela (BTS) Yoongi and Hoseok. "“Sope forever,” Hoseok whispers, patting clumsily at Yoongi’s hat. “Sope forever until I kill you,” Yoongi agrees." Bon Voyage 2. 1100 words.

first nights - arysthaeniru (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. Version of their first meeting in the dorm. 1200 words.

Voice - sixtieshairdo (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "“Seok-seok, you’re so cute. Your ears, especially. So very, very. Cute.” A weaker man would succumb to the temptation to kiss Yoongi whose face is too close for any friendly endeavour, but Hoseok couldn’t possibly give in, not when Yoongi’s drunk." ASMR fic. hobi loves yoongi's voice. 2700 words.

Too Far Gone - skeleton_soups (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Hoseok has been creating a space for himself inside of Yoongi's life for years now, so Yoongi's used to it by now... isn't he? -OR- How to fuck in a room full of sleeping boys." 1700 words.

worked up - sweetlyblue (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "“I’m not doing anything!” “Yeah, you are.” Yoongi bites a chunk of the snack bar off. “Seok-ah, it’s nut flavoured. I know how much you like-” “Oh my god.” “No, but really, you gotta have some.” Yoongi cracks off some of the snack bar. “You gave yours to Jiminie. Just eat the fuckin’ thing. I’m being a cute boyf- a cute hyung.” They fall into awkward silence." 1900 words.

into the morning light - realface (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "Hoseok could stop himself. He could make something up on the spot, could save himself if he actually wanted to, before he opens his mouth to blurt, “Hyung, wanna go on a date with me?”" sweet get together is also good at dating while an idol aspect. 1600 words.

What Happens In Vegas (You Never Tell A Soul) - thisissuchbts (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "They didn't-- No, no. They definitely didn't. After all, Yoongi just established that Hoseok is a relatively trustworthy drunk. He wouldn't have agreed to something like that; neither of them would. Except, oh wait, they absolutely would." accidentally married. 2200 words.

I Thought That I Was Dreaming When You Said You Loved Me - teenuviel1227 (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Hoseok clicked the link in the DM by accident. He didn’t mean to read it, to keep reading it, to let it colour his interactions with Yoongi but--how could he not? Yoongi didn’t mean to start writing it, didn’t mean for it to get so much attention. But at 80,000 hits his worst nightmare had come true in the form of a DM: Author-nim, I sent Hobi the link to your fics! Convinced that Hoseok is a) straight and b) not the kind of guy to check his DMs, he left it up. However, he can’t help but notice the way that Hoseok’s gaze lingers on him longer these days, the way he smiles wider, lets a hand casually fall over his. Or the fic where a fan sends Hobi the link to a Yoonseok fic, Hobi gets hooked, and Yoongi is the fandom’s most famous Yoonseok author." 7000 words.

feedback loop - englishsummerrain (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "He thinks they were made to fit together like this, somewhere between the bright lights of the stage and their dormitory sheets." 1700 words.

Bangtan Party Night - valaidh (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Now Yoongi leans forward to set his drink on the coffee table, gently but with clear purpose. “Okay, then, let's go.” A chorus of soft oohs bounces off the walls, and Hoseok’s brow furrows. “Wh– What do you mean, ‘Let’s go’?” “Let’s play Gay Chicken,” Yoongi says simply, the faintest hint of a challenge playing at the edges of his words." 13,800 words.

Heavy Rotations - fruityblowpop (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "Hoseok just wants to get fucked, but Yoongi is a bit terrified of popping Hoseok's cherry." 12,000 words.

Holding Hands - robertpostchild (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "“God damn it.” Yoongi yelled. “Hold my fucking hand.” That sounds more like Yoongi, Hoseok thought, but he still couldn’t get his hand to release its grip on the roll bar." sweet confession on a theme park ride. 3300 words.

Hands On - fruityblowpop (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Inspired By Run BTS: COPS, in which Hoseok seems to have a neck fetish. “Seok-ah, none of us knew what we were doing –“ “No,” Hoseok interrupted again. Yoongi felt long fingers press against his throat and he swallowed hard. “I didn’t realize –“ The fingers tightened, and even though Hoseok’s grip was still delicate, nowhere near enough pressure to cut off air, Yoongi’s breath still stuttered. “Oh,” he whispered. “Yeah,” Hoseok echoed dully. “Oh.”" includes breathplay. 14,600 words.

Awkward - sixtieshairdo (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. “You really like kissing, huh?” He wonders, just for a second, if Yoongi’s making fun of him, but the blush on Yoongi’s cheeks tell him otherwise, alerts him that, perhaps, Yoongi’s unsure about his intentions and motives. He leans down, plants a kiss on Yoongi’s forehead, over his eyelids, his cheekbones, his upturned nose, his willing mouth. “Nah, I just like you.” He can feel Yoongi’s cheeks burn as Yoongi presses his face against his chest. “God, you’re so cheesy.” Awkward but very sweet first time. 2700 words.

Lonely Nights are Better with You - whenIseeUsmile (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Yoongi can't focus and he knows why. That's why he texts Hoseok. He's his rock, even though he shouldn't be. Or in which they both SHOULD JUST CONFESS ALREADY." 4700 words.

The Space between Our Beds - minvmin (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Yoongi and Hoseok become roommates. Talking ensues." 3200 words.

someday - sweetlyblue (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "In the build-up to their comeback, their biggest debut stage yet, tempers fray and relationships break and are built once more, stronger than ever." Quite good! 11,800 words.

The Quiet - Mindy (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "Four times Hoseok said I love you, and the one time he didn't." 2500 words.

inside his head - trash_yoongi (97_jiji) (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "There wasn’t a moment of realisation. It was something that slowly built. Barely present at first, maybe he felt a little more tired, a little more restless. But it was nothing out of the ordinary. Yoongi was an idol, dealing well with tiredness should be part of the job description." Yoongi has depression and anxiety. 2 stories, 10,800 words.

soft hearts, electric souls - lilacflowers (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "yoongi said he'd stay once and ended up staying each time after." 4600 words.

what's the world (without you in it) - narutoskage (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Yoongi and Hoseok have been dating for a while now and Yoongi still can't get used to how much he loves his boyfriend (and sex with said boyfriend, the sex is good). AKA hoseok eating yoongi’s ass, pwp with feelings, and yoonseok being very much in love with each other." Funny, warm sex scenes. 2300 words.

Pronouns - littleghostfantasies (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Yoongi is having problems gaining inspiration for a new song he's writing. Hoseok can help. After all, it's all about him." 2800 words.

What's in a Smile - dokyun (kissthesea) (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Rappers aren't cute, says Yoongi, and neither is Hoseok." 1400 words.

love is a place - deuxoiseaux (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi. "When Hoseok had asked Yoongi if he'd wanted to come to the cherry blossom festival, Yoongi assumed the others would be joining them. ... Together they'd caught the train and spent hours weaving their way through the trees and other people, alone. They stopped at various booths for snacks and coffee, and Hoseok slung an arm around Yoongi's shoulders, keeping him close. Yoongi didn't mind." 2400 words.

5 times Hoseok was afraid and 1 time Yoongi was - Phinphin (Hidlesworth) (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Hoseok was afraid of everything. That Min Yoongi and everyone else in the group had quickly learned. Now, while everything per say wasn’t correct, anything could scare Hoseok on a good day." Needed a good beta, but not bad. 10,900 words.

Soft Spot - nivo (BTS) Hoseok and Yoongi. "Yoongi doesn't particularly care for the well-being of the new trainee. It's just that he doesn't particularly care for prison, either, and leaving the kid to fend for himself would probably constitute criminally negligent homicide." 1700 words.

Six Kisses - imasinner (BTS) Hoseok/everyone, Hoseok/Yoongi. "It’s an unquestioned truth that Jung Hoseok loves physical affection. He’s usually the giver, brimming with love and the need to show it to his groupmates. But birthdays are about receiving, and Hoseok’s present is morning kisses. (established casual poly/ot7 ; not necessarily romantic, but not necessarily platonic either)" 2600 words.

and you did it for me - shikae (39smooth) (BTS) placeholder come and take mine Yoongi/Hoseok. "They're fine. They'll always be fine." Quiet moment and a late night convenience store. 2000 words. And the lovely companion story with the others observing and drawing their own (correct) conclusions. 2600 words.

sometimes i think that i know - shikae (39smooth) (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "The alcohol in his veins is beginning to sift the languor back into his bones. He allows himself to lean in closer, just for the leverage, and their shoulders meet easily, steadily. Hoseok’s fingers fold gently around Yoongi’s other shoulder." Yoongi realises he's in love. 1200 words.

Underneath the Starless Nights - sophia7 (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "Hoseok is in love and doesn’t know how to deal with it." Hoseok is in love with Taehyung, and Yoongi is in love with Jimin. In the closet, both sad, they turn to each other for release and comfort. Yoongi eventually wants to be boyfriends and they agree to try. It's not an epic love story and they both fuck up a lot (repetitiously, even) but they agree to try and they do love each other. 72,200 words.

Always Enough - thedirtunderyourskin (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. "To make a long story short, they argued. They argued for a long time, waking up Taehyung in the process, and to stop himself from strangling Hoseok with the dirty t-shirt he was waving in his face, Yoongi left the dorm with no coat, no phone and no money." pre-debut. 3500 words.

Funny - sixtieshairdo (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok. Hoseok has a girlfriend but he and Yoongi get off on sexts about her. Yoongi pov of triangulation. 4100 words.

OT3 & MORE, POLYAM, GEN AND OTHER

Outro - oliviacirce (BTS) OT7, Jimin-centric. "Jimin's room, 20 minutes, he texts the group chat, minus Jimin. Bring lube and snacks." 8500 words.

one plus one equals one - moonbabie (VIXX, BTS) Jaehwan/Seokjin. "4 times the boys witness something they don’t understand, and 1 time they discover everything. Or Kim Seokjin has been together and married to Lee Jaehwan for the past 6 years, and never quite got around to telling his boys. Oops?" 5900 words.

One by one - whalien_spence_52 (BTS) Jungkook. ""The hyungs filled me up one by one. And I think maybe that's how I became what I am now. I could be a manifestation of all their characters coming together." aka the one where you can watch our precious maknae grow up and mature through his hyungs' eyes." 40,000 words.

have not saints lips - monbon (BTS) Hoseok/everyone. "as seokjin stepped up, lifting his shirt to point to a bruise jimin had (accidentally) inflicted on his abs, jimin and taehyung were still arguing. “you live together!” taehyung was retorting. “his bed is twenty centimeters from yours! you spoon basically every night!” “stop trying to deflect, tae, the line is sacred and you know it!” “oh man,” said yoongi, “i dunno who lied to you you, but nothing in this house has ever been or will ever be sacred. not since i walked in on you in the bathroom after those sketchy kebabs.”" hobi is gonna kiss EVERY BOY. 1200 words.

An Experiment in Threesomes - Only_A_Fangirl (BTS) Hoseok/Jungkook/Yoongi. "Still. What does he have to lose? He’ll just tell them about his problem, like a proper dongsaeng to his hyungs, and maybe they’ll have a solution. And maybe that solution will be to have sex with him. Probably not. But maybe. So, he won’t just say ‘I want you to take my virginity’, he’ll just hope that they offer. He might also lose just a little bit of his dignity, but not much, because he’s sure they won’t make fun of him. Or, the tale of Jeongguk's virginity loss to Hoseok and Yoongi." open ending, but i felt it gave just enough and i believe in a happy future! 37,600 words.

Logical Thinking - Only_A_Fangirl (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon/Yoongi. "“What’s the favor you wanted?” Namjoon asks. “Right,” Hoseok says. “So, I drank a little bit yesterday, and I got this really good idea. And then I sobered up and the idea was still good, so… here I am.” “What is it?” Yoongi asks. Hoseok takes a deep breath, looks at Yoongi pointedly for a few seconds, “Let me suck your dick.”" WIP at 76k now.

A Wish Your Heart Makes - oliviacirce (BTS) OT7. ""This can't be the right translation," Taehyung says, before Jungkook can do something crazy like just ask to suck Jimin's dick. Taehyung has his phone out, and is frowning as he taps the screen. "But I looked it up on Naver, and there might be something called sex pollen? Sex pollen? Like, plants?"" 16,600 words.

and i'll smile upon you too - pearl_o (BTS) Hoseok/Yoongi/Jungkook. ""what is going on right now?" yoongi says, still staring at hoseok. "i'm trying to communicate with you! like adults!" hoseok says. "you're doing a really bad job," says yoongi. "how did you picture this conversation going?" hoseok slumps until he's half lying down, letting his legs hanging over the edge of the mattress. "i was gonna tell you that i love you and that i want you to be happy and that i could be happy even if it meant...you know. sharing."" 5900 words.

Wingman - Zee (BTS) Jimin/Taehyung/Namjoon. "Any time Taehyung feels that he’s taken flirting too far, any time he does something a little daring and then needs to chicken out, he turns around and repeats whatever action it was on Jimin, as if to say see? This is just how I am all the time, with everyone, please don’t accuse me of liking you please. Like Jimin emits magic no-homo rays just by being there, or something." 4400 words.

You were holding on to make a point - bambambams (phanjessmagoria) (BTS) Hoseok/Namjoon/Yoongi. "When he exited the bathroom, sweatpants slung low on his hips, Hoseok's shirt had been removed, Yoongi's lips closed around his collarbone. Namjoon stopped short, smirking, more amused that Yoongi had waited until he was absent to start anything. He was like that, Namjoon had found—enough of a brat, even though he was the oldest of the three of them—but he knew the agreement that they had, too. He wasn't supposed to touch or kiss or lick or bite or anything until they were all together. It wasn't that Namjoon was jealous. None of them were—they, and their relationship, had evolved beyond that. It was simply that the three of them had agreed to always be just that—the three of them. Yoongi hated being left out and had been the one to propose that particular stipulation for their relationship. So, really. He should have known better." 7600 words.

Lonely Night - realface (BTS) Namjoon/Yoongi/Hoseok. "It starts, as most things in Namjoon’s life does these days, with a tweet." 2400 words.

keep me in your back pocket - misspamela (BTS and Monsta X) Yoongi/Kihyun. "“Kihyun,” Namjoon said slowly. “That friend of Hobi’s?” Yoongi couldn’t see him, but he could hear the carefulness in his tone. This was Namjoon Working Up to Something, and Yoongi felt his heart beat a little faster in anticipation." It's the pre-debut trainees talking about music and flirting fic I always wanted. 9300 words.

Can’t Look Back, Can’t Look Too Far Ahead - teenuviel1227 (BTS) Yoongi/Hoseok/Namjoon. "It started as directorial help for their sex tape--but what’s a couple to do when their bestfriend is the best at directing? Or Namjoon helps Sobi film a sex tape and gets caught up in the action too." 2700 words.

hold me tight - hobipd (BTS) Jungkook/Hoseok/Yoongi/Namjoon. "Anyway, the thing Jeongguk likes... It might sound a bit strange for a 19-year-old boy, to be into something like this. This being BDSM. Bondage in particular." Kinky porn with feelings. 15,000 words.

Korean Spirit - sodanehobi (BTS) Namjoon and Seokjin, Yoongi and Taehyung, Hoseok and Jimin and Jungkook. "It's just another night, and the boys remember how much they rely on each other." canonverse found family. 2800 words.

got your back - bazooka (BTS) Seokjin and Jungkook. "Seokjin wasn’t really the mom. He knew he wasn’t the mom. Namjoon knew he wasn’t the mom. Everyone knew he wasn’t the mom. It wasn’t even a question; it was the roles they played, the concept for their group dynamic. He wasn’t anybody’s mom. Except, apparently, at one o’clock in the morning, when he’d been woken up by the tiniest of tiny sounds coming from the general direction of the kitchen." Jungkook has a panic attack and Jin is just playing the mom except when he actually is the mom. 2100 words.

#bts #fanfiction #fic links #2seok #jihope #jikook #jinkook #junghope #namgi #namjin #namseok #taegi #taekook #vhope #vmin #yoonjin #yoonkook #yoonseok

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boogiewrites · 7 years ago

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Before & After - Ch. 4, Pt. 1. The Anniversary.

Title: Before and After - Chapter 4 Pt. 1

Characters: Jim Hopper x Reader

Word Count: 4084

Summary: Dealing with the 1 year anniversary of her almost life-ending accident coming up soon, our character not only has to deal with how this makes her feel, but also how it’s making Jim feel. The anniversary.

Warnings:The first few chapters, not too much. There’s swearing, smoking, drinking, talk about death, mental illness, body image and the complicated feelings that come with living through these things. Further along there is more of the same and then that sweet, sweet smut some of you animals are after.

A/N: It’s the weekend ya’ll, have some more story. I’ll be posting both parts tonight, but since it is almost 8000 words, I wanted to split it up.

This started out as just the urge to write some nice smut for you fine folks. It has grown into an over 20,000 word (so far) exploration. There is lots of fluff and romance, sexual tension, will they/won’t they feelings. There is smut later on, I promise, just stay with me on this. I believe this is called a slow burn.

All other chapters on my Masterlist.

Here are the tagged folks, if you’d like to be added or removed, just leave a reply and I’ll see it! Any positive feedback is also appreciated. :) Thanks!

@whatmakesmebeme-tblr @sleepylunarwolfh @elevenofmages @alahmorah @norcula @undiscl0sed-desir3s @atari-writes @jobean12-blog@miss-harleenquinzel @kiwiphroot @ashphoenix105 @ambeazyyy@riotguuuurl @warriorqueen1991 @misbehaving-f0r-days @divadinag @flamehairedwritings

You decide to wear your hair in big soft waves, your makeup just a bit more than natural. You search for a coat to wear while in your underwear, to keep from messing up your dress. You were feeling surprisingly well. You were slowly pushing that bad mood cloud that always seemed to hover above you away, at least temporarily.

You decide on a basic black leather jacket. It's never let you down. You look at the clock, 4:30, you better get your clothes on now. You're listening to music and watching yourself move in your new dress in your mirror, looking yourself over one last time. Your hair had grown out over the scar on your head and concealed it for the most part; a small stretch of it creeping out of your hairline on the side of your face. You were confident in your body and what it could do again. You had come so far. But your makeup took too long to start crying over your pride. You were glad you got on board with this. You hear the growing rumble of the Blazer in the distance and you feel that anxious wiggling in your gut again. You give yourself a stern look in the mirror, pointing a finger at yourself. "Don't you go feeling nervous. Cut the bullshit, lady, we've got a night to enjoy." You hear him knock on the door as you shut your bedroom door. You walk up to grab your purse off of the kitchen counter and look at Jim over your shoulder as he walks through the door. He keeps his eyes on the keys in his hands while he announces his arrival. "I'm here, sweetheart. You ready to go?" he doesn't look up until he's shut the door behind him. You're already making your way across the floor to him. His eyes wander down your body as you move closer. You take the time to appreciate the effort he's put forth for you this evening. He's wearing a big navy wool coat over a grey shirt, dark pants with nice boots. With his hair combed back and his beard tamed, he looked so handsome. Your eyes meet, you both smile sheepishly at each other for a moment. He takes the time to swallow and wet his lips, giving you an obvious flirty once over, "Well, look at you..." he grins, he reaches up and rubs his chin before holding his hand up to motion you to give him a twirl. You roll your eyes but oblige his request. "You better be glad you're with the Chief of police tonight, looking like that." he pauses, giving you a charming smile. "You look like trouble in that outfit, sweetheart." his tone changing into something less dark and more friendly, he shakes his head. "I mean that as a compliment," he adds, leaning into you just a bit. "The kind of trouble I'd wanna get into." he lets out a small awkward laugh. You smile and swat your hand at him, "Oh, go on..." you laugh and reach out, smoothing the lapels on his jacket as he watches you. "I feel a little bit like trouble tonight." give him a small sly smile, scrunching your nose at him. "You look very handsome in this. " you say, changing the subject. "Thanks," he replies hesitantly. "But I think people are going to wonder why a beautiful woman like you is out with a big monster like me." he smiles down at you. "Oh don't be ridiculous Jim." You playfully smack his chest, "No one's even going to notice you with me around." he lets out a snort of a laugh. "There she is," he says happily, embracing you. "You seem a bit more like your old self tonight." your arms are pinned between you, hands on his chest. You could feel his heartbeat, he smelled so nice. He releases his grip on you. "I feel..." you take a deep breath in, "...good. Better than good." you raise your eyebrows at him. "I can tell, it looks good on you." he smiles at you, "You ready?" he asks, adjusting his coat. "Whenever you are." He turns to the door, switching off the lights. "Do I get to know where we're going?" you follow him to his Blazer. "I'm taking you somewhere nice." he says, opening the car door and holding your hand as you climb in. "It's a little bit of a drive but, should be worth it." He says as he shuts the door for you and you watch him make the walk to the other side of the vehicle, wondering what he's come up with. You'd been driving for over half an hour, and you were not sure where you were at. The road was quiet and the scenery beautiful. You watched all the colors of the sunset on the trees. You still hadn't asked where you were going again, although the anticipation was killing you. The music played softly through the speakers of Jim's blazer. His knuckles were white from the grip he'd been putting on the steering wheel. You weren't sure if you should be nervous too. "There wouldn't happen to be food where we're going is there?" You ask as a hunger pang starts to divert your attention. "Of course there is. What kind of friend would I be if I didn't do something that involved food?" he laughs and keeps his eyes on the road. "You wouldn't be." you laugh. "If you were my friend you'd know better." "Exactly. You're not going to get hungry and cranky tonight. There will be plenty of food, I promise." he continues laughing and reaches over and pats your leg. Usually, only a casual, friendly touch became suddenly much more intimate as he'd forgotten there wasn't fabric covering your legs. He freezes for a few seconds longer than necessary, his fingers having had landed between your thighs. You look over at him, but he refuses to acknowledge the electricity buzzing in the air. You see the lump in his throat bob up and down as his face falls straight. His hands returning to the wheel, keeping his eyes on the road, you didn't say too much the rest of the drive. You finally pull off onto a smaller road and Hopper clears his throat. "We're almost there." You sit up straight and smooth out your dress. "Anything looking familiar yet?" he asks, glancing over at you. You turn your face to the window, shaking your head. "No...should it?" You said, worried you were already messing up the evening. "Maybe." he looks back to the road. The closed in trees on either side of the road start to thin and open to reveal a huge log building. "The Overlook." you read aloud. It seemed to be a hotel with a restaurant and bar. It was a big beautiful wooden monster of a building in the middle of nowhere. It almost felt familiar but then again, your memory wasn't the best. You were sure you'd never been to this hotel before though. "That sounds so familiar." you said under your breath. Jim's eyes watched your face focus. "They finished this place up just a few months ago." he says, rolling up the entrance and pulling up the valet. "This place has Valet? James, you are spoiling this woman tonight." you say both impressed with and picking on him. "Anything for you, babe." he says with a charming glance, as the valet pulls open your doors. You trot in your heels up to the door, waiting as Jim spoke to the valet. You look around, take a deep breath of the air as it was starting to chill. This place was gorgeous. You didn't deserve all this. He saunters up the walkway. He moved smoothly towards you, putting his arm around your shoulders as you walk through the grand entrance of the hotel. You move into the restaurant, it's dark, it's gorgeous and you don't remember the last time you were in a place this nice. He leans into your ear, almost whispering his voice is so low. "Go wait at the bar if you don't mind, I have to check the reservations." he says, placing his hand on the small of your back. You nod and find a nice spot, a friendly bartender appears. "You must be Mrs. Hopper." she says cheerfully, "Would you like a drink?" You are confused, but maybe she just saw the reservation and assumed? "Sure, why not?" you pause to think, "I"m celebrating tonight, have anything to suit that?" "Congrats, and yes! We have a birthday special, would you be interested in that? It doesn't have to be your birthday to order it though." she winks. "Sounds great, thank you." she begins to make the drink. "You mistakenly called me Mrs. Hopper when I came in? May I ask why?" you try to ask casually. "Oh, I'm sorry! I just knew there was a reservation for the whole balcony tonight for Hopper party of two, and I assumed. My apologies." she lowers her head as she keeps making the drink. "Rented out the whole balcony?" you ask, your jaw going a bit slack in surprise. "Yes, it's terribly romantic isn't it?" she says, smiling. She hands you your big, obnoxious, fruity, party drink. She walks to another side of the bar. You sip on the sickeningly sweet drink as you're pondering this newly found information, then Jim slides up next to you. "Come here often, gorgeous?" he asks, grinning and leaning on the bar. You can't help but smile. You turn yourself towards him, flipping your hair over your shoulder. "No. I don't. In fact, another man brought me here tonight." you say flirtatiously. A full laugh comes from him, he runs his hand through his hair. "Well, you don't mind if I steal you from him, do you?" he says, gesturing away from the bar to another large room. "Of course not. You're much more handsome than he is anyway." you say, placing your hand on his chest and lightly dragging it across him as you walk away from him, you hear him laugh again. "Don't go running off so fast, sweetheart." He picks up your drink and follows you. You stop in the threshold of the room. You glance as up as you turn to look back at him. But you see an entire huge wall of glass with a stone balcony on the other side. It looked out over a huge valley of fall colored trees as the sun was just starting to fall between two of the mountains. It was possibly the most picturesque moment you'd ever experienced. You start to slowly walk towards the door to the balcony, you feel Jim behind you. "You remember it now?" he says, as he passes you, holding the door out for you. You walk out to the ledge, a huge drop off into nothing but golden hues, with pinks, purples, and yellows from the setting sun. The Overlook. The building being here made you not recognize the place. You hadn't been here since you were young. But how does he even know about all that? "Jim..." you say softly, reaching backward for him and not taking your eyes off the view. "I remember this." he stands silently, holding your hand, watching you. "How did you know...?" you trail off, awestruck. "A certain Aunt of yours might've told me about you coming here in the summer." he said, looking out. "I can see why you'd like this place so much." Flo. Of course. But, why would she tell him about this place? You're pulled from the thought by a sudden warmth to your right. You look over and see an employee lighting a giant fireplace. You turn and slowly walk towards it and put your arms around yourself, getting lost in the memories that came with thinking about your long summer nights at the overlook. "Your meal is ready Mr. Hopper." a young boy says. You turn and look over at Jim. He holds his arms out over one of the tables. "Ready when you are, sweetheart." his voice was so patient. Tears were trying to form in your eyes because you had so many emotions. You let him scoot in your chair and you sit alone together after you order, you stare, admiring the valley. "You know this is absolutely ridiculous, Jim." you turn your head lazily to make eye contact. You see his face fall and his jaw tighten. "No, I'm not complaining. " You shake your head and give him a warm smile. "At all. This is the nicest thing anyone's ever done for me. This is just, I say too much but I mean it's just...overwhelming in a good way." you try to convey you aren't in the least bit critiquing his choices. He lets out a heavy breath. "That's a relief." he closes his eyes for a moment to calm back down. He turns to look at the view and you get a good long look at him. For a giant goober, he's pretty handsome. You notice the way the sun hits his eyes, the way the golden hour light softened his hard expression. You feel yourself begin to get a little flustered. Was it hot in here or was it him or...you...or....no you're actually sweating? You're actually hot. You were close enough to the fire and it was giving you enough heat to where you didn't need the coat anymore. Shit. Now he's gonna see you without the jacket on, it had been subconsciously working as a security blanket for you. This was so damn romantic and you're all dolled up and this was starting to feel like a different type of anniversary. You didn't deserve this. "I'm getting hot." you mumble, unzipping your coat. Jim tuts at you and rises to take your coat. You give him a look of "Really?" You stand and turn around to give in. "Such a gentleman." you kid with him as he takes your coat off, hanging it on your chair. Here is the moment you've been pretending to not be anxious about. There's no reason to be anxious, Jim has even seen you naked before. Although that had been in a completely nonsexual situation. Not in a man looking at woman's body who is capable of doing the things that one would think about when looking at a woman that looks like you do right now. He's quiet and his eyes get a little dark, he's looking over your body, seemingly not even caring if you can tell. He sighs and takes his bottom lip into his mouth and he looks up and into your eyes. "You should be glad I'm such a gentleman with you looking like this." You feel the heat in between your legs first, and your face soon follows. He can see you blushing. Way to play it cool. He's never been this aggressive with you when it came to flirting, you were impressed by it honestly. He stood confidently, smirking at you. "Come on, gorgeous." he said softly, motioning to your chair. You hold eye contact with him until you turn to sit back down, wearing an unsure but flirty face. You share stories of the summers spent at the overlook. You drink, you eat, the inside of the restaurant has filled out by the time the moon is in the sky. The fire is warm, your heart and stomach are full. Jim has outdone himself and you realize now you're going to have to pay him back for tonight, you still feel a tad guilty. "How did you pull this off, Jim? The whole balcony is empty but us." you use your hand motioning to the other tables, all empty. A cocky grin appears on his face. "Well, I am the Chief of Police you know." he says playfully shrugging. "The title has its perks on occasion." "Look at you, pulling clout to get 'Lil 'ol me an entire balcony to myself. " You lean forward on the table with your elbows, your chest heaving itself out of your dress just slightly, " Ya didn't have to do all this just to get me alone, Chief." You take a slow sip of your drink. He smiles at you, but this smile brings back that heat to your inner thighs. His eyes are dark, his brow low. His mouth pulled into a sly closed mouth smile. In time to break the tension, the dessert cart rolls around and before you can even think about it, Jim says, "One of everything please, pack it with the stuff to go." he smiles charmingly at the young girl pushing the cart who nods and walks away. Your mouth hangs open. You dart your eyes around in surprise. "What the...Who is this handsome man throwing money and his name around for me? Well, I declare, what have you done with my dusty 'ol curmudgeon, Hop? " you purposely up your southern accent and give him a coy smile, fanning your face with your hand. He laughs, eyes crinkling at the edges. "Not gone anywhere, sweetheart." he tosses his napkin onto the tabletop, crossing the table to pull out your chair. "I told you I wanted to give you a great night." he puts your coat on you. "Well you're doing an unbelievable job." you say encouragingly. He puts his arm around your shoulders and you start out of the restaurant. Jim places the large bags of take out into the back of the Blazer. You drive back in the direction you came. "Can I ask if we're going home now?" you say, taking off your heels. "Of course you can and yes, we're going back to the cabin." "But I'm assuming the night isn't over?" you ask, looking out the window. "Far from it." Neither of you talk much on the way back. You're feeling great, full of food, alcohol, and compliments. You don't feel the need to make small talk. You pull up to the cabin, you put your heels back on. "Mind if I ask why you wore those?" he asks as he holds open your door, offering you his hand to get out. "Flo." you answer quickly, a hint of agitation in your voice. He laughs and nods, understanding. "Don't get me wrong, they look great." he says walking ahead of you. "I agree. They just aren't the most practical things to walk to a cabin in the woods in the dark in." you complain as you slowly cross your front yard. "You said it, not me." he laughed and opened the door before you were up to the stairs and shuts it, standing in front of it, almost as big as the door itself. " I'm gonna go in first and I'll be back in just a minute, okay?" You shrug and nod. More surprises. He slides in the door with the bags of food and you hear his movement through the door. He slides back out a few minutes later. "I want to surprise you so I'm gonna cover your eyes and walk you in." You let out an annoyed groan. "You have to cover my eyes? What am I 8?" you asked with faux exasperation. "Oh come on..." he says pleadingly, walking behind you and putting his hands on your face. You place your hands on his. He directs you, pushing your legs with his to the far side of the cabin. He takes his hands off, onto your shoulders. "Okay, look now." You blink as your eyes adjust to the light. In front of you sits an old piano against one of the walls of the cabin. You drop your hands and look back at Jim. "Jim...you didn't..." "I did." he beams. "You didn't! Jim!" you squeak out in excitement as you reach to smack him. He laughs and watches you gawk at the piano. "I know I didn't have to. But I wanted to." he said, you trace your fingers across the keys. You hadn't played piano since before you had to have the physical therapy on your hand. You just hadn't picked it back up, but you missed it dearly. "I don't remember telling you I missed playing." you sat on the old bench. "You didn't have to." he said, standing over you. "I wanted tonight to be about making you happy." he pauses for a moment." So I thought about the happiest I've ever seen you, and that was at the new year's party 2 years ago, playing that piano and singing. The high school got some money and they got new ones so I got one of the older ones for you." You smiled at the memory of the party. "The old ones sound better anyway." you say dreamily, giving the piano a good look over. You stand and put Jim's face between your hands, he's smiling like a dope, very proud of himself. "Jim. Chief Hopper. Closest confidant, biggest pain in my ass..." you proclaim, speaking loudly to his big face in your hands. You're beaming at him with shock and happiness. "You are amazing and wonderful and I don't know what I did to deserve this but thank you." you declare. "I'm uncomfortable with how happy I am right now." you release his face and see yet another surprise behind him as you lightly smack his cheek to push him to the side and walk past him as he lets out a laugh and follows you around again. "WHAT IN THE BLUE HELL IS THIS?" you shout gesturing with both arms towards the huge projector now occupying a wall in your cabin. "Now, that you don't get to keep." he starts and laughs. "I have some kids in AV club, owe me a favor so I had them hook this up for us." You stand there with your mouth open and don't know what to say to all this. This is a new feeling. You see the spread of food he's put on the counter with alcohol and junk food and you feel a little dizzy. You go over and plop onto the couch, looking at the projection set up, overwhelmed. "I love this, this is perfect, you're so smart." you babble, grabbing his arm as he sits next to you. He might've even blushed at your words. He sits there in silence as you process all this. He hoped he hadn't gone too overboard. "You good?" he asks, pushing your hair back. "Yeah," you nod, a little dazed. "I'm great, don't worry." you look at him, wide-eyed. "Just...this is a lot for a girl to take in, Hop." you give him a kind laugh and look around the room. "I probably shouldn't tell you about the-" he begins as your head whips towards him, your eyes wild. He doesn't even get out his lie before he starts laughing at your expression. "I'm just kidding. I'm glad you're happy." he says softly. "I am." you say, standing up. You hang your coat up and pull on some slippers. You start looking over the deserts from the restaurant, the fire is roaring and Jim starts up the projector, turning the lights out. The fire giving the room a golden hue. You found yourself once again being surprised by how picturesque your evening was. You settled on the couch with Jim, alcohol, and sweets. You both thoroughly enjoy yourself for the evening, doing what you had suggested all along; watch some dumb shit, get drunk, all that good feeling junk.

But now it's gotten late.

#jim hopper #chief hopper #stranger things #stranger things 2 #david harbour #hopper x reader #jim hopper x reader #chief hopper x reader #stranger things fic #fan fic #stranger things fan fic #smut #fluff #reader insert #jim hopper x fluff #chief hopper x fluff #jim hopper x smut #chief hopper x smut

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kaibutsushidousha · 7 years ago

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Did this one as separate post instead of just answering the ask because the answer got long and I didn't write all in just one day.

My main picks would be Caster Sekien Toriyama because I just think he would be extremely cool, Rider Bellerophon because his name is there since Fate/stay Night as Medusa's NP but there’s no sign of the man himself and pretty much any Brazilian Servant since we still don't have any. My Twitter TL discussed this 2~3 years ago and made a Grail War roster using only Brazilian Servants (but we got 2 Casters because we couldn’t settle on the best option). More details about all of them under the cut:

Sekien Toriyama: Toriyama was an artist from Edo. Before his drawings, youkais were considered invisible formless spiritual monsters born of human fear and no one could know exactly what they looked like. However, Toriyama dedicated his life to publish 4 volumes of an art compilation called “Gazu Hyakki Yagyou”, a sort of a youkai Pokédex where he drew all he could find and gave the famous youkai the looks we know them for today. (Trivia: the later volumes of his work contains youkais no anthropologist could find any previous mythological information for, so it’s highly speculated he started making youkais up for art money at some point)

As a Caster, his moveset would obviously be focused on youkai summoning with the Gazu Hyakki Yagyou as a passive Noble Phantasm enabling that. He could also have a skill that allowed creating new youkai from scratch if he fulfilled some condition (like having already used up most known youkais in battle).

Bellerophon: Bellerophon is a young Greek hero, son of Poseidon and famous for 3 great feats. When Perseus killed Medusa, the Pegasus was born from her blood and many people tried to tame him without success. Bellerophon heard that and tamed it for his first feat. Ever since then the Pegasus became his personal horse and he was seen mounting it in every battle he fought. The second feat was slaying the Chimera. No one could that before because the Chimera breathed fire and that would melt any blade that would be used against it. Belle however had the brilliant idea of shielding the tip of his spear with a huge lead ball. He flew above the Chimera with the Pegasus and dropped with the full weight of his lead ball spear into its head. The Chimera’s fire breath melted the only lead, leaving his spear inside intact and with that he slayed the monster with one blow. I don’t think that’s how thermodynamics work in real life, but worked for him in the legend. The third feat was Bellerophon’s death. Due to fame and success earned with his two previous feats, the arrogant ass thought he was good enough to deserve a spot among the gods and started flying his Pegasus to the Olympus. Zeus said no (read: dropped him of his horse). Bellerophon actually survived the fall, but blind and with his legs paralyzed in the wasteland, just waiting to die.

As Rider, obviously have the Pegasus as main NP most likely identical to Medusa’s version. He probably would also have a second NP based on his lead ball trick. I’m think his initial spear could have a ball close to tip kinda like Ren from Shaman King and he could use to block an enemy Noble Phantasm once, and if he did, the ball would melt revealing his true better spear inside.

Brazilian Saber (King Pedro I): King Pedro IV of Portugal/King Pedro I of Brazil (full name: Pedro de Alcântara Francisco António João Carlos Xavier de Paula Miguel Rafael Joaquim José Gonzaga Pascoal Cipriano Serafim) is not really a Brazilian person, but is probably the most known name in Brazilian history so we couldn’t go without including the guy. Pedro was born in Portugal, where he lived the first 10 years of his life, until the war with France forced the Portuguese Royal Family to escape to Brazil. When the King went back to Portugal, Pedro stayed back as the reigning prince in charge of Brazil. Later, his father King João VI of Portugal died and needed a successor, so Portugal called him back. Brazil was more free than ever with a reigning prince living in the colony, so 8000 people signed a petition begging him to stay and so he stayed going directly against Portugal’s orders. This lead to some little war with Portugal for 9 months until probably the most iconic moment in Brazilian history, where Pedro yelled “Indenpendence or death!” at the shores of the Ipiranga River. Portugal couldn’t really kill him at this point, so Brazil’s Indepedence was declared and he became the First Emperor of Brazil (his son Pedro II was the second and last, yeah the Brazilian imperial era didn’t last very long). He became known as “The Liberator” in Brazil for being responsible for our Independence and as “Soldier King” in Portugal because of how war was an ever-present thing in his life. His government as the Emperor lasted 9 years and was marked mainly by economic crisis generated by the Independence process (Brazil had to pay compensation to Portugal) and a lost war against Cisplatina. Eventually he grew a lot of political enemies for being Portuguese and therefore dealing too much with Portugal and for being too liberal for his time (he rejected everything that went against free speech and was planning to end slavery), so he was forced to resign and went back to Portugal. There he caused a civil war and died before it was over (sasuga Soldier King).

As a Saber, he would probably get a very low rank Imperial Priviledge, high stats for his reputation as Soldier King and a conceptual Noble Phantasm based on “Indepence or death”. I’m thinking of him declaring a condition to an enemy and if he is not killed within a time limit this condition is fulfilled.

Brazilian Archer (Lantern): Lantern (Lampião in Portuguese) is the most famous and successful cangaceiro ever. Foreigners probably have no idea what cangaço is so I guess I’ll have to explain that as well... Ok, the Northeast was basically this huge wasteland where everyone was poor (and kinda still is, to a much smaller extent) and some people had to resort to banditry to feed their villages and to get back at the government for ignoring their part of the country. Cangaceiros were pretty much pirates, but in the wasteland instead of the sea (no, they didn’t ride ships through the desert), including the part were they are constantly herofied in adventure literature. The main weapons associated with cangaço are pistols, small rifles, shotguns and peixeiras (huge knifes meant to remove the scales from big fishes but used by cangaceiros as make-shift swords). They didn’t have pirate flags but they did sign themselves in other way, with cangaceiro hats. The number one cangaceiro was Virgulino Ferreira da Silva, who joined the cangaço after his father was shot dead by the police and his success eventually made him known as the Cangaço King (insert One Piece joke here). That would make him the Brazilian equivalent to Blackbeard, but we can all hope he won’t get the Blackbeard treatment in Fate/. By the way, he is called Lantern because they said his gunshots were so fast they would illuminate the night. He led a strong band of over 100 sand pirates and dominated the Northeastern wasteland until his band was betrayed by a member, ambushed by the police and everyone got machinegunned. Ironically, Lantern went down exactly like his dear old dad who made him start this whole thing.

As an Archer, he would use mainly his gun and peixeira as primary weapons and maybe have a sand-related skill along with Honor of Pirates. The story behind his nickname is badass enough to warrant at least a Skill if not a minor Noble Phanstasm. For his main NP I was thinking about the desert as a Reality Marble with his band alongside, but that’s kinda too similar to Ionioi Hetairoi. Sorry for the lack of better ideas.

Brazilian Lancer (Curupira): Already explained.

His main “backward feet” gimmick could easily be translated into Presence Concealment clone combinable with his other forest affinity Skill. I have no good ideas for his Noble Phantasms though.

Brazilian Berserker (Zumbi of Palmares): Zumbi was a founding member and king of the Palmares, the biggest quilombo in history. As you know, Brazil used African slaves until 1888 and every slavery system has it’s great share of escaped slaves. Here in Brazil, the escaped slaves built big self-sustaining hidden communities just for them and those were called quilombos. One quilombo, Palmares, stood out among all others, being speculated to be roughly the size of Portugal. Sure, Zumbi was not perfect in hiding a community this big and Palmares was eventually found and attacked by the government, but when it happened Zumbi proved himself to be a fierce warrior, brilliant tactician and willing to rebuild Palmares from its ashes as many times as necessary. Eventually the government realized they already wasted too much resources on the quilombo wars and offer to end this by freeing everyone in Palmares but Zumbi refuses, saying he would only accept the terms if every black person was freed. The conflict continued in a smaller scale for 17 years until Zumbi was killed and his salted head was brought to his state’s governor. Still, he is the most notorious black man in Brazilian history.

He was picked as a Berserker mostly for his story was similar to Spartacus, so his stats and skillset should be similar as well, but probably stronger due to just how big Palmares was and more sane due to his status as a tactician. He would probably get a better Battle Continuation as well since his name is literally the Portuguese word for “zombie” and a Presence Concealment clone thanks to the hidden nature of the quilombos.

Brazilian Caster 1 (Antônio the Counselor): In times of crisis, people tend to find refuge in religion. The empoverished Northeastern wastelands had many known charasmatic and influential religious leaders that marked history, like for example Priest Cícero, the one Lantern devoted his life to. Another very powerful Catholic leader there was a pilgrim called Antônio the Counselor, who wandered the lands followed by 15000 people, received messianic treatment by his devotees and even managed to start and lead a large scale civil war against the government that neglected the Northeast (he lost and died).

As a Caster, he would use the usual Type-Moon priest magic, much like Amakusa. Being a known prophet, he would have Jeanne’s and Amakusa’s Revelation Skill and his Noble Phantasm would be based in his most famous prophecy “The wasteland will become sea and the sea will become wasteland”. This prophecy NP was actually the reason why I recommended him as a Caster on our roster.

Brazilian Caster 2 (Oswaldo Cruz): Oswaldo Cruz was a famous medical scientist known for studying tropical diseases and developing vaccines for most known epidemic of his time. However, back in 1904 people afraid of vaccines, believing some crazy dumb rumors it was some sort of dangerous biological weapon issued by the government or it could cause autism or some other nonsense. Through Oswaldo’s efforts, the government allowed sanitary agents to violently break out into people’s houses and vaccinate people by force. This caused a violent popular backlash called the Vaccine Revolt, where the common people fought against the sanitary agents and caused public chaos in order to end the mandatory vaccination. The social impact of rebellion and the erradication of smallpox and yellow fever caused people to realize vaccines were harmless and effective and completely ended the anti-vacc sentiment over the entire country as early as 1907.

Caster Oswaldo’s power set would be based less what he were, but more in how he was feared by the common people during his life, in a Innocent Monster-like fashion. His main attacks would be magic injections with varied effects and his Noble Phantasm would make them as unavoidable as Gae Bolg, based on the concept of forced vaccination.

Brazilian Assassin (Saci Pererê): See the link on Curupira’s part.

Like the Hassans, Saci is the ideal Assassin Servant because his name can be tied to very word Assassin (A"saci”n). Besides he is an elusive mythical creature who can appear and disappear in whilrwinds, so the Presence Concealment qualifier applies. His Noble Phantasm would be related to his magic hat and would called Luison as a follow-up to the “Asacin” joke, since Luison is the name of the Tupi mythology equivalent to the zabaniyyas.

Brazilian Rider (Santos Dumont): Sure, Dumont lived in France for most of his life and was there when he invented the airplane, but he was born in Brazil and lived here for 18 years, so we Brazilians love to somewhat inaccurately brag that the plane is a Brazilian invention and he is fully treated as a national hero here for it.

As a Rider, his main Noble Phantasm would be the 14-Bis, with plane engine-like weapons being used as his primary weapon. He is also indirectly tied to the invention of the wristwatch, but I don’t know how to incorportate that as Skill for him. His research involved hot air balloons as well as airplanes, so I guess he could use those as make-shift bombs.

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classquads · 7 years ago

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lemme get fuckin uhhhhh relationships for a Heir of Void

Rubs my tiny gremlin }{ands together.

Alright, Heir of Void’s relationships!

Long ass post so puttin’ it behind a readmore!

For the Red Quadrant I think a… Hmmm……… Maybe a Sylph of Space? Or a Bard of Time, honestly. Space in general is a pretty good match for Void, so the Bard initially acting as a Space player would be pretty good for a budding relationship between the two of them.

Naturally, the Heir of Void probably doesn’t think anything ‘wrong’ with them per-se. At least, not at first, not until they develop as a person and realize. Hey. I kinda need help. Which is kind of important when talkin’ about relationships, since the Heir could act like a total blunt dick, and push their potential romantic partners away from them by saying, or doing, things that are mean, or offputting( Looks Equius straight in the mcfuckin eyeballs ).

Firstly, Bard of Time; The Bard of Time and the Heir of Void would initially not be too interest in each other - At least not until the Bard does, or says, something to attract the Heir. And, honestly? The two would hit it off right off the bat. They’d click pretty well, both having their own hangups that could make them bond as friends making light of their issues together.( They’ve both got HELLA baggage ) The others might see this as kinda weird, having two awkward, and kinda really messed up people taking an interest in each other and making morbid jokes would really put them off.

But the Bard and Heir would just be all too happy to finally, FINALLY, have someone who gets their senses of humour. Someone who isn’t afraid to generally be kinda dickish to themselves, and relate to even the most fucked up of scenarios.

The two of them slowly, ever slowly, start to have inklings of feelings for one another and, well… This is kinda where is could very easily tapper off. Both of them wouldn’t be the best at admitting their feelings for the other, and may very easily result in them distancing themselves, or worse, have one party completely overwhelm the other with some gesture of romance that goes horribly for one reason or another.

Secondly, Sylph of Space; Okay, so, the Sylph in general is like. Mom Friend City Central. Tack Space onto that and they become the Cool Neighbour Mom Friend. The one who makes totally amazing things that you can only wish to make, and so UTTERLY TALENTED in whatever they apply themselves to creatively speaking.

At first the Heir could be sceptical of the Sylph, thinking them to be too good for them, or even being jealous of their talents. Buuuuuut, and boy howdy do I use that a lot, the Sylph would be more than willing to step down off the pedestal the Heir has set up for them, relating to an issue they are having with their own project(s). The Sylph would work with the Heir, despite the Heirs reluctance to be so close to them( Good people cooties, oh no!! ), without even being asked to do it, showing them easier ways to do the thing they had been stumped on. They’d work up close and personal with the Heir until they understood it as best they could, and even then the Sylph would keep trying to motivate the Heir to keep going! To keep working towards their goal, whatever it may be! Even if it’s completely unrelated to what they had bonded over, the Sylph is just happy to know the Heir isn’t giving up. That they are continually doing their best despite the Heirs lack of self-confidence.

Inevitably, the two will start to get along on a more personal level, and learn more about each other. The Sylph would become more comfortable actually talking about themself, and not just their craft, and could ease the Heir into talking about themself too. Maybe even picking into some of that trauma, which is a huge deal for the Heir of Void to do. Sharing( Personally or otherwise ) isn’t exactly in their vocabulary. it’s something the Heir of Void REALLY NEEDS TO DO THOUGH. Uhhhh, nyes, hello, therapist town??? We need one of you here STAT. We got a real bad case of VOID ASPECT mixed with some horrible HEIR CLASS.

And what can the Heir do for the Sylph, I hear you asking. Well, simple. They supply a quiet partner, someone who has trouble dealing with certain things, someone for the Sylph of Space to ‘fix’( Or help to heal, really. ). Sylphs WANT someone who is bad for them, who is so inherently broken they have no chance to be fixed by someone other than themselves, but Sylphs NEED someone who can not only keep up with their quips and inbuilt sarcastic nature, but also provide with someone to assist, to help in any sense of the word since it brings the best of both their wants and needs.

The Heir could very well develop romantic feelings for the Sylph through all of this, knowing that the Sylph is there for them, that they are wanted by someone. The sylph, too, could develop feelings for the Heir, buuuut we all know that Sylphs have bad taste in romantic partners, so it’d take them a bit to realize that they’d be better off with the Heir who has come to be such a big part of their life.

Really, it’d be a lot of the Sylph being their ever patient and kind self, while the Heir grows.

After the Heir has become who they were destined to be, no matter how much time has passed, you better believe the Sylph will be there to congratulate them. Just make sure that you’ve let the Sylph know you’re interested, even if they might have an inkling to it, it’s always better safe than sorry, since the Sylph could probably get snatched up by someone who’s really kind of shit.

For the Pale Quadrant I’d say a Rogue of Heart Seer of Heart might work out pretty fuckin well, yeah? Void players have this tendency to be quiet people, ones who don’t ever really speak their minds and just let life happen to them. Basically the epitome of Depression. And tack the Heir class onto that and you’ve got a ridiculously quiet, but sturdy person who does their damndest to get their point across while keeping mostly to themselves, and hardly speaking up about their feelings. ‘Cause feelings are dumb, right? And also a burden, right? Right? BUT! This is where the Seer of Heart comes into play, since they could just. Read the Heir like a book. The Heir wouldn’t be able to hide anything from the Seer.

From the moment they meet, the Seer could easily know exactly what the Heir is thinking, know what they want to get across but can’t because of inherent awkwardness and be able to say it properly for them. The Seer could easily, EASILY, become a key point in keeping the Heir stable Keep them from going Grimdark by knowing the best times to start feeling jams, and the best times to avoid them.

And the Heir? The Heir could help the Seer work on their inability to not constantly push themself into other peoples business. Seers are just THOSE kinds of people, the kinds who just can’t help but want to get into other peoples private affairs as if they were entitled to it. The Heir could distract them, keep them busy with other things so that their team wouldn’t get upset with the Seer for becoming TOO invested in what doesn’t concern them.

Honestly, I think Void and Heart in general is just a really cute Pale pairing, as the two aspects go hand in hand in a lot of ways.

Ashen issss a bit harder to pin down, due to determining a good rivalry to cockblock being a bit out of my sphere for the moment.

Aaaand Black. HOO BOY. A Witch of Blood, or even Light, could fit the Heir of Void pretty well. Their rivalry would be built on their mutual lack of trust in others. They would be paranoid around one another, thinking that the other knows more than they should, that maybe they’re plotting the others downfall.

The two would butt heads near constantly, to the point that it’d get a wee bit ridiculous to everyone around them, especially since the Heir wouldn’t be the most outward with any Hate they felt, yet the Witch makes it come out of them. Kinda like word-vomit, but with hate, y’know? The Witch could be talking about anything, really, and the Heir, even with their quiet and reserved nature, would instantly butt into the conversation and aggressively oppose and/or debate with the Witch over the topic at hand. Honestly the two throw the entire party for a loop with how vehement they are about trying to get the upper hand over the other.

Even if the black quad is built on hate, it’s also a Rivalry quad, so even if the two of them can’t stand each other, the Heir of Void and the Witch of Blood/Light would have an understanding between them, one that they probably don’t even notice until much later on. Probably after the both of them have had time to come into their respective classpects. They highkey just think they hate each other, and don’t have any kind of rivaly-thing goin’.

Specific to the Witch of Light; The Witch of Light would also probably get on the Heir of Voids nerves from how mouthy and lond-winded they are, nto to mention the never ending pep they seem to radiate. It’s kinda like shoving an 8000 year old vampire up to a loud youtubers lets play and telling them to listen/watch to all of it. It just ain’t gonna click all too well, and probably result in the Vampire choosing to walk into the sun instead of suffering any longer.

But t}{is is all just me spoutin’ BS. W}{en it comes to relations}{ips, in t}{e end w}{at reely matters is t}{e people be}{ind t}{e classpect. }{ell, an Heir of Void could even get wit}{ a fuckin u}{}{}{}{ Knight of Mind and make it work.

#classpect #class #aspect #quadrants #homestuck #inb4 ppl tell me i suck at this LMAO #oceanmandrawsthings #heir of void #sylph of space #bard of time #witch of light #witch of blood #seer of heart

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accuhunt · 5 years ago

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Where to Stay in Thailand: Unique Lodges, Boutique Hotels and B&Bs Away From the Crowds.

There is something about Thailand that keeps calling me back. The infectious energy of Bangkok. The dramatic hills and rivers of Northern Thailand. The hipster vegan cafes and hole-in-the-wall Thai joints of Chiang Mai. The ever-growing bucket list of where to stay in Thailand. The abundant peace in Buddhist temples accessible only by hiking. An easy Thailand visa on arrival with the Indian passport. The surprises that lurk in its many corners, far from the beaten path. The warmth of locals. The acceptance, no matter who you are.

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Lisu Lodge: Northern Thailand

Lisu Lodge and its cousin Lanjia Lodge are shining examples of community-based tourism, where travellers are hosted by the indigenous hill tribes of Thailand. Away from the vibrant Thai cities, this is a chance to recuperate in the lap of nature, literally. Think gentle hills, lush paddies, roaring rivers and sparkling night skies. The huts are built on stilts, in traditional architectural style, suited to urban taste yet with natural air flow, and pretty much all food is sourced locally.

Location: Mae Taeng (north of Chiang Mai)

181$ for two, including breakfast

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Also read: 15 Responsible Travel Tips for Authentic, Meaningful Experiences on the Road

The Yard Hostel: Bangkok

In the hip Bangkok neighborhood of Ari sits a little secret. A green oasis in the heart of the city, made from recycled shipping containers and insulated with recycled paper! I’m usually not a fan of hostel life, but The Yard Hostel is more like visiting family (literally too; yard is the Thai word for relatives), with a mix of trendy private and shared rooms with large glass windows overlooking the greenery. Right at your doorstep are the independent stores, cool cafes and art galleries of Ari, the new kid on Bangkok’s hipster block.

Location: Ari, Bangkok

Dorms: 15$ per bed; Private room: 44$ for two, including breakfast

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Also read: How I’m Financially Sustaining My Digital Nomad Lifestyle

The Hideout: Koh Yao Noi

Plastic-free, wifi-free, electricity-free. If that doesn’t convince you to move The Hideout – Koh Yao Noi to the top of your “where to stay in Thailand” bucket list, maybe this will: tree-top living with no walls! Far from the overrun beaches of Thailand, lose yourself amid the sun, sea and stars at Koh Yao Ni, as you feast on gorgeous food handcrafted mostly with local organic produce. The Hideout has an admirable zero waste policy; you can even swap your trash from a beach/forest cleanup for an artisan cocktail. If that’s not your thing, cool off in the solar-filtered saltwater infinity pool instead or soak up some vitamin Sea at the secret beaches on your doorstep. Just don’t Instagram them

Location: Koh Yao, Koh Yao Noi

343$ for two, breakfast included

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Also read: How Responsible Tourism Can Challenge Patriarchy in India

Green Tiger House: Chiang Mai

Reform Kafe is one of my favorite vegan cafes in Chiang Mai, endorsed even by my non-vegan friends. So I have no doubt that Green Tiger House, to which the cafe belongs, is a delightful abode too. Close enough to the old city yet far enough from its chaotic streets, the homely rooms offer a minimal wooden vibe, solar-powered showers, green lounging spaces and delicious plant-based breakfasts whipped up mostly with locally sourced organic ingredients.

Location: Old City, Chiang Mai

65$ for two, including breakfast

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Also read: The Epic Land Journey from Thailand to India via Myanmar

Aster 9 House: Bangkok

Tucked away in a quiet by-lane, yet a stone’s throw from the more happening area of Sukhumvit, Aster 9 House is a townhouse B&B, run with the warmth of a family-run homestay. Walking through the little gate, I fell in love with the green outdoor lounging area and the minimalist white theme, plucked right out of a French villa. The rooms are stylish and super comfy. Kanta, a Bangkok local, and his sweet mother, personally host all travellers for breakfast with a delightful Thai feast (or an English breakfast if you’re so inclined).

Location: Sukhumvit, Bangkok

63$ for two, including breakfast

Book Aster 9 House

Also read: Vegan (and vegetarian) friendly cafes and restaurants to try in Bangkok

Ban Lom Jen Homestay: Chiang Rai

Now that I look back on my travels, I think staying at Ban Lom Jen Homestay – a homestay run by Son and Jan, a Thai-Dutch couple in a little village off Chiang Rai – is what sealed my love affair with Thailand! My partner and I went back 3 years in a row, to savor their warm hospitality and humor, indulge in incredible Thai food and homemade breads, work on a balcony overlooking lush rice paddies (the once long open balcony is split by rooms now) and explore northern Thailand on a bicycle.

Location: Muang, Chiang Rai

28$ for two, including breakfast

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Also read: Going Back to the Places We Love

Zeavola: Krabi

The spectacular Koh Phi Phi island in Thailand is often in the news for the wrong reasons. Due to overtourism and its ill-impact on the ecology, Maya Bay has been shut indefinitely and Koh Phi Phi island itself went through a water crisis. That makes responsible tourism in the area of utmost importance. Enter Zeavola Resort, a boutique hotel nestled amid ten acres of tropical rainforest in Phi Phi Don, serenaded by the waves of the turquoise blue Andaman Sea on the pristine Laem Tong Beach. Go beyond the charming rustic luxury of its teakwood suites to discover the underwater world with Zeavola’s “Coral Freedom” initiative – which aims to club leisure diving with its quest to fight coral bleaching and enable coral reef regeneration.

Location: Phi Phi Don, Krabi

294$ for two, including breakfast

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Also read: What I Learnt Volunteering on a Remote Island in Cuba

Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts Hotel: Chiang Mai

Phor Liang is over a hundred year old clan in Chiang Mai, who’s founder is known to be an elephant whisperer (he used indigenous herbs to treat sick or hurt elephants). His great grandson became a famous terracotta artist, carving sculptures that represent both Buddhist and Lana Art – and this art is what sets Phor Liang Meun Terracotta Arts Hotel apart. Borrowing design concepts from across Southeast Asia, with a focus on local terracotta artisans, this trendy art hotel is for anyone with a creative flair.

Location: Old City, Chiang Mai

119$ for two, including breakfast

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Also read: 10 Incredible Eco-Lodges Around the World: Indulge Yourself and Spare the Planet

Plant Life Hotel (coming soon)

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A post shared by PlantLife Hotel Sanctuary (@plantlifehotel) on May 12, 2019 at 6:52am PDT

Even though it’s yet to open, I can’t contain my excitement at the idea of Thailand’s (the world’s?) first and only 100% vegan and sustainable luxury resort – Plant Life! After a successful crowdfunding campaign, plans are underway to use renewable energy, source locally, install a self-sufficient water system and instill a zero waste policy to create a space that is ultra luxurious yet kind to the planet and the animals who share it with us. The dream is that one day, such spaces will be the norm, not the exception!

Have you used booking.com on your travels yet?

*Note: I wrote this post in collaboration with booking.com; as you know, I’ve been using it for years and opinions on this blog are always mine. This post contains affiliate links. Any bookings made through these links will earn me a little commission at no extra cost to you.

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megaphonemonday · 8 years ago

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If you're taking requests, can I please get a fic of Ginny where she's Mike's daughter's kindergarten teacher?

oh, geez, Joudie. Do you see what you’ve made me do? I am tied up in all these feelings about Mike as a single dad now. Like 8000 words later and I’m still not over it.

anyway, i hope this makes you smile!

easy as 1, 2, 3 | ao3

“Daddy, look!”

Obediently, Mike stopped, one of Maddie’s little hands still curled in his. The other pointed up, towards a wall of artwork. (Well, calling it “art” was maybe generous, but the kids were five and six. He could cut them a little slack.) He tried to follow the line of her tiny finger, but wasn’t sure what she wanted him to see.

“What am I looking at, Mads?” he asked with a frown.

Impatiently, she raised her arms, the imperious “Up!” left unsaid.

With a groan—his girl was getting too big or his knees were aging too fast for this—Mike hauled her up onto his hip so she could point with more accuracy. Apparently, now that she had a better vantage, pointing wasn’t enough. Instead, she curled her fingers into his beard and tugged, like it was a set of reins and he was her noble steed.

He really needed to stop letting the guys give her “horsey rides” if this was what he got out of it.

“Ow! Mads, gentle,” he reminded her, still moving to the right. The way she’d wanted. Geez, that was effective.

Satisfied he was doing as she wanted, and—unfortunately—probably not because it was the right thing to do, she released her grip on him. She reached out and smacked her hand against one of the pictures. Immediately, his eyes zeroed in on the familiar, slightly shaky, handwriting of his daughter in the bottom corner. In painstaking letters, she’d spelled out “Madeline Lawson,” each letter a different color.

Honestly, how he’d missed it before was beyond him.

“It’s our family!” she announced brightly, not that Mike really needed the update.

Right in the middle, shorter than everyone else, was Maddie. He could tell it was Maddie because she’d painstakingly drawn herself in her favorite outfit, bright yellow overalls. There were four contingency pairs hidden in his closet. When it became clear how much she loved them, Mike went right out and bought an emergency stash. And a good thing, too. There had been five contingency pairs, but after he accidentally bleached the originals, they’d moved onto pair number two.

Beside her, much taller, that had to be him. At five, Maddie hadn’t yet learned artistic subtlety, so he was marked by both his beard, far bushier than he ever let it grow, and a baseball hat.

Some of the other figures, though, required a bit more thought. It didn’t help that Maddie’s understanding of family wasn’t quite... traditional.

Off to the side, with a gut and mop of gray hair, that had to be Skip, or Grandpa Al as his daughter had learned to call his longtime manager. Blip and Evelyn, along with Gabe and Marcus, were also included in Maddie’s vision of their family. Even Jedi, standing next to Maddie, though Mike doubted the little girl remembered the dog who’d died when she was three, was represented.

As conspicuous as the odd additions to their family tree was the glaring absence. There was no Rachel, which made Mike’s heart pang, just a little. But looking down at how proud his daughter was of her drawing, and how happy she’d made everyone in it look, he told himself again that Maddie couldn’t miss what she didn’t remember.

That only left one thing unexplained.

“Who’s this?” Mike asked, tapping the remaining woman in the picture. Well, he thought it was a woman. She was wearing a dress and had long hair. Then again, Maddie’d seen what the team made rookies wear during September hazing, so it was best to check.

“That’s Miss Baker,” Maddie replied, as if it required no further explanation.

Mike stared at the curly-haired figure. He had yet to meet Maddie’s new teacher. It was why they were here, in fact. When her original kindergarten teacher went on maternity leave early in the school year, Miss Baker had been hired to replace her. He knew that Maddie loved the woman, had come home with stars in her eyes the first day with her and breathed, “Daddy, she’s the best.” But between post season press obligations and trying to make sure there would be more than enough money to send his daughter to college, he hadn’t gotten a chance to meet the new teacher.

Which was really the only reason he’d signed up for a parent-teacher conference. It was kindergarten for Christ’s sake. What could there be to conference about? And barely six weeks into the year?

“Sweetheart, you know that Miss Baker’s not part of our family, right?”

Maddie shrugged in his arms, clearly uninterested in the conversation, looking down the hall towards her classroom.

Mike chuckled and dropped the subject. Miss Baker was surely waiting.

The closer they got, the more Maddie began to wriggle, nearly bouncing in his arms. She really was excited to be see her teacher. When he’d told her she didn’t have school today, she’d pouted for nearly an hour until Mike finally caved and told her about the conference. He wasn’t actually sure if he was supposed to bring Maddie along, though he was positive he’d never gone to a conference with his mom. Not unless the principal called her in and he was already waiting in the office.

But who was he to tell his baby girl that she couldn’t go to school if she wanted?

God, where did she get it from? Certainly not Mike, who’d only graduated because he couldn’t play ball if he didn’t.

He set Maddie down and watched as she dashed ahead into her classroom. He rounded the corner just in time to see her run to her teacher, who crouched down to greet the girl with a high five. She listened as Maddie prattled on and on, her focus not once wavering from her student. It wasn’t until his daughter pointed back towards him that she stood, looking towards the door.

For a moment, everything slowed. Her curly hair, tossed casually over her shoulder, seemed to float, unaffected by gravity. Sparkling brown eyes met his own and Mike would swear that his heart flipped in his chest.

Miss Baker blinked, shaking herself a little, before smiling warmly—had he ever been so affected by dimples before?—and extending her hand.

Mike blinked back, reaching out to shake automatically.

“Mr. Lawson? Hi, it’s nice to meet you. I’m Ginny Baker.”

(Preposterously, the first thing to cross his mind was Maddie’s picture out in the hallway. Not even two minutes ago, he’d thought it was weird for his kid to include a woman she’d only known a matter of weeks in her family portrait.

Now, he was beginning to think Maddie’d been onto something.)

If, after finally meeting the illustrious Miss Baker, Mike made a point of being a more visibly hands on parent, especially around school, he told himself he was just taking advantage of the off season to hang out more with his kid, which hadn’t been much of an issue when she was in pre-K. She was growing up so fast, he could hardly stand it.

And it wasn’t even a lie. He hadn’t actually realized there were so many volunteer jobs in Maddie’s classroom. Things had definitely changed since he was in school.

Which didn’t make him feel old. At all.

What did get to him was being surrounded by a bunch of kindergartners and their energetic 24-year-old leader. How she managed to keep up with the twenty-odd hell-raisers was a mystery, especially when his one morning a week left him nearly as drained as catching nine innings.

It helped that it was the most fun he’d had in a long time, though.

Maybe he would’ve liked school more if his teachers had looked like Miss Baker, or Ginny as she’d insisted when he showed up for the second time this week. He’d immediately reciprocated, because while he usually got a kick out of people calling him Mr. Lawson, from Ginny it just made him feel even more like a dad.

The way she’d grinned and nodded, testing out his name, well, that had definitely been a different kind of kick.

A kick that he had to ignore for the benefit of the small children around him.

Children that had just headed off to lunch.

“Bye, daddy!” his little girl called down the hallway, waving madly. “Bye, Miss Baker!”

Ginny and Mike stood at the door to her classroom, waving until the line of kindergartners disappeared around the hall. Once they were out of sight, Ginny sighed, slumping against the doorframe.

So she wasn’t a boundless well of energy.

The thought was oddly comforting.

“Long day at the office?” he joked weakly, a little too distracted by the dark sweep of her eyelashes against her cheekbones.

She snorted anyway, tossing him a grin as she turned back into the room, heading towards her desk.

Mike followed along, feeling more flustered around a pretty girl than he’d been in a long time. A pretty girl who happened to be his young daughter’s teacher.

Pulling himself out of that train of thought, he cast his attention elsewhere. Specifically, the little Padres pennant poking out of her pencil cup.

He flicked it with a finger, watching it flutter. “You a fan?”

“Yeah.” She smiled sheepishly, looking up at him through her lashes as she straightened her desk. “I actually didn’t realize that you were Maddie’s dad until you walked in for her conference.”

He grinned at that. “What, you don’t memorize all your students’ family trees?”

“Ah, I knew I’d forgotten something when I took over!”

Mike laughed, not because it was a particularly good joke, but because he liked the way it sounded when their chuckles blended together.

“I mean,” she continued, “she told me you played baseball, but I kind of figured she meant in a summer league or something? It’s funny what kids fixate on about their parents. Like Jack M? He told me his mom’s job was playing with water guns.”

“And what does she actually do?”

“She’s a firefighter.”

Mike chuckled appreciatively. “That’s not surprising. It took a long time to explain to Maddie that my job was just playing a game.”

Ginny smiled and nodded, a little rueful. “I get that. My dad actually used to play. In the minors. He retired before I was ever born, but I always told people that he was a baseball player.”

“Oh, what was his name? Maybe I’ve heard of him.”

She shot him a look that said she knew he was just being polite, and her lips quirked. “I doubt it. I’m sure he was before even your time.”

Mike’s eyebrows shot up in surprise, a disbelieving laugh bursting from his chest. Miss Baker’s eyes widened as she realized what she’d said and she clapped a hand over her mouth.

“I’m so sorry! I didn’t—”

He just chuckled, waving her off. “It’s all right. I am the oldest guy on the team now that Hunter retired.” He waited until she gave him a tentative smile back to look away. His gaze landed on the clock. With a start, he rapped his knuckles on her desk. “I should get outta your hair. Let you enjoy your peace and quiet while you have it.”

“I don’t mind,” she replied, still looking a little shy, though Mike was sure that was just left over embarrassment. Just like he was sure she was just being polite when she said she didn’t mind him hanging out.

It probably was safest to believe that. No, it definitely was safest to believe that.

“You say that now, but I can’t have you getting too sick of me. I’m signed up to be the Classroom Helper every Tuesday for the rest of the semester. Imagine how awkward it’ll be in December if you get sick of me now.”

The amusement on Ginny’s face was well worth losing a few of his cool points. They grinned at each other for a long moment, only breaking eye contact when she blinked and looked down.

When she peeked up again, though, she said, “Well, I guess I’ll have to look forward to next Tuesday, then.”

When he finally left the school, he had a grin on his face and a bounce in his step.

Mike, of course, because he didn’t do well with taking it easy or playing it cool, didn’t limit himself to his Tuesday morning duties as Classroom Helper. When Miss Baker’s class went on a field trip to a children’s music concert, he signed up as a chaperone. When the call went out for extra volunteers to help out with the kindergarten Halloween Party, Mike responded almost immediately. When the weekly story time volunteer had to cancel, Mike stepped in, and even consulted Ginny on kindergarten-appropriate reading material. (She laughed when he brought up “Casey at the Bat,” but suggested something with a happier ending.

Her laugh, as always, stayed with him for days.)

Which was why he finally admitted that, okay, he had a thing for Maddie’s teacher.

Not that he was going to do anything about it. Because aside from the age difference—she’d graduated from NC State two years ago and Mike could barely remember what high school had been like outside of the baseball team—and the fact that she was really and truly out of his league, Ginny Baker was his daughter’s teacher. There had to be some kind of rule or code against teachers dating parents.

He knew it. He accepted it, even.

But it didn’t keep him from sticking his nose where it probably didn’t belong.

Case in point: he invited her to Thanksgiving.

When he swung by the school to drop off Maddie’s forgotten lunchbox, he definitely hadn’t intended to invite the woman that he was harboring a monster crush on to Thanksgiving dinner, but it wasn’t as if he’d intended to develop that crush in the first place, either. Some things just happened.

The class was out at morning recess, so he didn’t bother going to the classroom. Instead, he made his way to the fenced in playground, sure that Ginny would be supervising her group of hellions there. When he arrived, though, the place was a ghost town.

Frowning, he circled, searching for the missing class, when the shrill shriek of little voices reached his ears.

He followed the sound to the flat expanse of grass around the back corner of the school, and was confronted by a tiny, makeshift baseball diamond swarming with small children. At the epicenter, a lightning rod compared to the munchkins surrounding her, was Ginny holding a big, red ball.

So, not baseball, then. Kickball.

When she caught sight of him, she smiled and waved, handing the ball off to the shy little boy next to her. She pointed and mimed rolling the ball to the next kicker in line before jogging up to Mike.

“Your daughter is kicking butts and taking names today,” she said in lieu of a real greeting.

“That’s my girl,” he grinned, finding Maddie out on second base, a determined glint in her eye.

For a moment, they stood watching the game, which seemed to go fairly smoothly even without a teacher’s guiding hand. Satisfied that all wouldn’t descend into chaos, Ginny returned her attention to Mike. Her head tilted slightly to the side, eyeing him. “Did I miss that you were volunteering today?”

Mike held up Maddie’s sparkly purple lunchbox. “Nope. Just making sure my kid won’t starve.”

“You know they’ll give her lunch if they find out she forgot it.”

“I do,” he replied easily, “but I also know she probably won’t eat it. How I ended up with the pickiest eater on the planet is beyond me.”

Ginny laughed. “I’m sure there are worse. The other kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Wallis, told me she once had a boy who only ate dinosaur shaped chicken nuggets. And when she got his sister the next year…” she trailed off, biting her lip and clearly trying to hold in laughter.

“Don’t leave me in suspense, Baker. What was it?”

“Spongebob mac and cheese.”

Mike chuckled at the absurdity of those poor parents stocking up on Kraft mac and cheese and chicken nuggets. “Maddie would love if I only made her chicken nuggets and mac and cheese,” he admitted. “But she is pretty excited for Thanksgiving. It’s the one meal she doesn’t ask questions.”

Ginny hummed in response and refocused her attention on the kids. One of them had taken a spill and she was waiting to see if she needed help or would get up on their own. When the girl pushed to her feet again, she turned back to Mike.

“So you don’t try and slip weird stuff by her then? My mom used to do that. Tell my brother and I that tuna fish casserole was traditional to get us to eat it.”

“No, but I might have to try it if her hatred of green beans goes any further.”

She shook her head ruefully before turning back to watch the game.

Mike did his best not to fidget at her side.

God, had he ever felt this awkward with a woman he’d been interested in? Probably not, if only because he could count on hand the number of women he’d been as interested in as Ginny and none of them were off limits.

“So,” he began, unsure of where to go. “Are you excited to go home for Thanksgiving?”

That was safe enough, right? It was this week, after all, with a shortened school week to celebrate; just Monday and Tuesday for both Ginny and the kids, and the rest off for an extra long weekend.

“Oh, I’m not.”

“Excited or going home?”

She frowned a little. “Both I guess? I couldn’t quite justify the ticket home when I also need to pay rent, so there’s not much to be excited for. It’ll probably be me, a pizza, and the Macy’s Parade.” Ginny’s drawl was good-humored, but it still unsettled something in Mike.

He remembered always being jealous of classmates who got to go to big Thanksgiving celebrations with all their cousins and grandparents, not to mention their moms and dads. While he’d never gotten that, and couldn’t really give it to Maddie, either, he sure as hell would share what he did have.

“Seriously? That sounds terrible.” he snorted, earning an indignant scoff from Ginny. “If that’s all you plan on doing, you should come to our Thanksgiving.”

“Yours and Maddie’s?” she replied, her tone hard to read.

Which gave Mike pause. What had he just done? “Well, yeah, but a few other people, too. It’s honestly a pretty motley crew that shows up, but I don’t have a lot of family and I’d hate if Maddie grew up without—”

“I understand,” she said, cutting him off with a hand to his arm. When had he started gesturing so wildly? He let her guide his arm back to his side, trying not to start babbling again. Luckily Ginny continued, “I’d love to come. Let me know what I can bring.”

Come Thursday afternoon, Mike wouldn’t say he was frazzled, per se, but between trying to keep Maddie, Gabe, and Marcus—not to mention Robles, Duarte, and Voorhies—entertained, shooing Al away from the already seasoned turkey (”Not everything needs more garlic, Skip!”), and squabbling with Evelyn over the finer points of entertaining, he probably wasn’t quite at his best when he opened the door to Ginny.

But the way her eyes trailed up from his bare feet to the novelty apron he suddenly wished he’d burned to the bit of flour stuck to his cheek was probably worth whatever craziness he’d been put through. Especially when she reached up, unthinking, to brush the powder away. When she realized what she’d done, her eyes went wide and a little embarrassed.

What did she have to be embarrassed about? was all he could think, trying to rein in the goofy grin that wanted to break over his face.

“Hi,” he greeted, a little breathier than was appropriate, even with the face touching. He cleared his throat, frowning. “Come on in.”

She stepped inside, smiling shyly. Dressed more casually than he was used to, Ginny still managed to make athletic leggings look like the height of fashion, though maybe that was just the way they put her long, lean legs on display. He was glad she’d taken him at his word about how casual this affair was. Livan was wearing some Ed Hardy knock off, for God’s sake.

Toeing off her sneakers, she said, “I know you said not to bring anything, but I was informed tha it’s rude to show up without some kind of gift, so here’s wine and sparkling cider for the kids.” Then, sheepishly, she admitted, “I don’t actually know anything about wine, but I do remember liking the cider when I was growing up.”

He took both bottles off her, ushering her towards the living room where most everyone else was gathered. “Thanks, Ginny.” He didn’t know why, but her name felt more significant in his mouth here. In his house. Mike shook off the errant thought and continued, “You’ve already put the guys to shame. They just showed up and asked, ‘When do we eat?’”

“The guys?”

They turned the last corner and Ginny froze at the sight of three San Diego Padres lounging on Mike’s sectional like they owned the thing. It wasn’t just their presence that made her stop in her tracks, though.

No, that was probably down to the fact that Maddie had used each one as her own personal mannequin and none of them had the heart (or brains) to say no.

Voorhies was decked out with a hot pink boa and a pair of Hello Kitty sun glasses, Livan had escaped with just the bright blue wig from Maddie’s Halloween costume fitted on his gigantic head, but it was poor Omar who’d suffered the most. Perched atop his head and shedding more glitter than Mike had believed possible was the tiara he was sure he’d hidden last year. Of course Maddie’d managed to find it and save it for a special occasion. That wasn’t all, though. No, his daughter had managed to immobilize the man by trying to pull her tutu up his legs, and failing that, stripped him of his socks so she could paint his toenails.

If Omar looked pained before, the sudden appearance of his captain and a pretty girl probably made him want to die. Especially when said pretty girl’s shoulders started shaking, her hand over her mouth failing to hide her amusement.

Because Mike wasn’t a perfect person, he fished out his phone and snapped a picture of all three men and their stylist, beaming with pride.

That done, he turned his attention back to his daughter.

“Mads, did you ask Omar if you could do that?”

“Uh huh,” she responded, not bothering to look up from her work.

“You know you didn’t have to let her, right?” he asked, this time focusing on his utility infielder.

“Uhh.”

Whether Omar’s indecision came from not actually knowing he was allowed to tell Maddie “no” or from Ginny’s presence and continued amusement, Mike couldn’t say. But the way his eyes darted between both suggested it was maybe both.

Taking pity on the man—he’d been laughed at by Ginny on more than one occasion and knew it stung the pride—Mike said, “Maddie, why don’t you put that away and come say hi to Miss Baker?”

His daughter’s head shot up at that, her little face lighting up. Somehow, she managed to avoid spilling her nail polish as she rocketed to her teacher’s side, practically bouncing with excitement.

Ginny smiled, getting down on Maddie’s level, but she still threw a few curious glances at the ballplayers in the room. The ballplayers were much less polite, staring openly at her. Like they’d never seen a beautiful woman before.

Their attention made Mike’s hackles rise because he was apparently no better than an animal when it came to hopeless infatuation, but he managed to keep his cool.

Taking a breath, he asked the hostess of the evening (not that he’d ever tell Evelyn that), “Do you want to introduce Miss Baker to everyone or should I?”

“I’ll do it!” Maddie exclaimed, grabbing Ginny’s hand and tugging her along. She went without protest, just throwing a quick grin over her shoulder to Mike.

His daughter took her role very seriously for all her enthusiasm. She pulled Ginny over to Dusty first.

“Miss Baker, this is Dusty. He plays baseball with daddy. Dusty, this is Miss Baker. She’s my teacher.”

“Hi,” Voorhies said with a little wave.

Maddie stomped her foot. “That’s not what you’re supposed to say!” she scolded, making the man rock back. Ginny choked on a laugh, her hand coming up to cover her mouth again.

“It’s not?”

“No! You say, ‘Nice to meet you,’ and shake hands. Right, Miss Baker?”

Ginny nodded, her lips pressed together to keep from laughing. Her eyes sparkled, though, telling Mike everything he needed to know about how much she wanted to let loose.

“We learned all about it in school,” Maddie continued, nodding wisely. “They’re called manners.”

Despite her best efforts, an odd, choked up sound escaped Ginny at that. Mike only barely managed to hold in his, but Livan didn’t even bother. He laughed long and hard, through Dusty’s correction and Omar’s mumbled greetings. He only sobered when Maddie and Ginny stopped in front of them, smirking up at them from his spot on the couch.

He waited long enough for Maddie to make it through his introduction before taking Ginny’s offered hand. Rather than shaking, though, he laid a kiss against her knuckles, murmuring something in Spanish.

When Ginny replied, only slightly hesitant, in the same tongue, that smirk deepened, less shit-eating and more intrigued.

Which was more than enough of that.

“Why don’t you go find Uncle Blip and the boys, kid? Take Miss Baker with you and make sure to introduce her to Aunt Ev and Grandpa Al, okay?”

Once they were gone, he turned back to his teammates, leveling them with an unimpressed stare.

“You holdin’ out on us, Lawson?” Livan goaded, not bothering to remove the stupid wig, though both Omar and Dusty had already ditched their costumes.

Mike didn’t dignify that with a response, just said, “If you offend my kid’s teacher and she flunks Maddie out of school, just know I will hold you personally responsible.” He crossed his arms, frowning as forbiddingly as he knew how. Which was pretty fucking forbidding, for all that he didn’t get to use it that often. He’d learned his lesson the first time he accidentally made Maddie cry trying to get her to confess to spilling her paint set.

As it turned out, though, the guys were not the ones that he should’ve been worried about.

Evelyn Sanders just loved to turn expectations on their heads.

Which was exactly what she did when she sidled up to him at the kitchen sink as he rinsed off dinner plates before getting the pies set up for dessert.

“Why didn’t I know about this?” she demanded, though she sounded more excited than annoyed, which was always a good thing when Evelyn was demanding something. If he knew what she was demanding, though, he’d have been even happier.

“Know about what?”

“Miss Baker!”

“Uh,” Mike hedged, having a terrible feeling he knew too well what Evelyn was talking about now. Had he given himself away at dinner? Laughed too much at her jokes? Been too obvious about keeping Livan from flirting across the table? (He had broken out his awful Spanish to head off any repeat performances of their introduction, which was anything but subtle.) It was only coincidence that they ended up sitting next to each other; every other seat was taken by the time he finally came out to the dining room. Still, he was going to play dumb as long as Evelyn let him. “Yeah, Mrs. Colton had to go on maternity leave early, so Miss Baker took over Maddie’s class.”

“You know very well that’s not what I’m talking about, Michael Lawson,” Evelyn scolded with a huff. So, not long at all. “I’m talking about the fact that you have been seriously dating Miss Baker. So seriously, in fact, that you’re going to propose!”

Mike sputtered. If he’d been drinking, there would have been a spit take of epic proportions. “I’m what?”

“The boys told me that Maddie told them,” here, Evelyn began to frown, considering her sources, “that you and Ginny are going to get married and she’s going to have a new mom.”

There wasn’t a lot he could do in the face of that information aside from let the tap run and wash over his hands.

God, he’d known Maddie liked Ginny, had been overjoyed when he told her her teacher was coming over for Thanksgiving dinner, but he hadn’t realized just how much.

Gingerly, Evelyn reached over to shut off the tap. It took another beat for Mike to set down the plate he’d been rinsing and reach for a hand towel. Unsure of what else to do, he huffed out a disbelieving laugh, scrubbing at his face and hoping he’d wake up from this fever dream.

He knew, without looking, that something was on the tip of Evelyn’s tongue. She was itching to say something, give him advice, though whether it was advice about Maddie or Ginny was a toss up.

Before she could, though, they were interrupted.

“All right, all right!” Ginny laughed over her shoulder before turning to Mike and Evelyn at the sink. Her laugh was still written all over her face, dimples fully on display and eyes dancing. “I’ve been sent to check on the progress of dessert.”

Evelyn was aghast. “Did Gabe and Marcus make you get up just for that? Gabriel! Marcus!”

“Oh, it wasn’t the kids,” Ginny replied dryly.

“I want pie!” Voorhies shouted from the dining room.

“Pie! Pie! Pie!” came an echoing chant, the high treble of his daughter just barely audible over everyone else.

Mike just shook his head, muttering, “Animals. I’m saddled with animals.” Still, he turned to the fridge and pulled out the waiting desserts while Evelyn went to restore order. Four entire pies that Mike was sure would be gone before the evening was over.

“Need a hand?” came a voice from right beside him. It wasn’t a surprise, though. All evening, he’d been almost unnaturally aware of just where Ginny was in relation to him. He did faintly wonder when he’d developed that ability, but also didn’t think that was really a rabbit hole he could afford to go down. Not with the revelation Evelyn had just dumped on him.

He turned towards Ginny and found her with her head tilted ever-so-slightly to the side. She smiled, as bright and open as ever and Mike had to blink to get over just how much she blew him away.

“Uh, yeah,” he finally managed. “Grab the little plates for me?”

They walked back into dining room, only to be greeted with raucous cheers (for the pies, of course). When they took their seats again, Ginny’s arm brushed up against his. She glanced at him for a moment, but aside a little quirk of her lips, didn’t acknowledge the contact. Still, she didn’t move away, not when she fell into conversation with Al on her other side and not while she demolished three slices of pie on her own. She didn’t move away until everyone left the table, and then, she leaned into him, more than just a sway to help heave herself up, before she went.

After she, and the rest of his guests, left, all Mike could think was that he definitely understood why Maddie was reluctant to admit that Miss Baker wouldn’t be in their life forever.

Arguably, it took Mike too long to set Maddie straight on the whole new mom thing. On Thanksgiving, she passed out before everyone had left, not even stirring when Mike picked her up from the couch and transferred her into her bed. Friday, Mike hadn’t quite figured out how to broach the subject, and Saturday, she spent most of the day with the Sanders boys.

It wasn’t until Sunday evening, the day before she was supposed to go back to school, that Mike was able to sit down with his little girl.

They’d just finished dinner and Maddie’d asked to be excused—she really had learned some manners.

“Actually, Mads, there’s something I want to talk to you about.”

She shrugged, turning her trusting little face up to him. And why wouldn’t she trust him? He’d vowed to be the best dad possible, and he thought he’d done an okay job of it for not having any real example to follow.

“Okay, daddy,” she replied, folding her little hands on the table, elbows stuck out to the sides.

He smiled, utterly charmed by the picture she painted. Her little feet were probably swinging away under the table, too. Still, he couldn’t put this conversation off again. So, he took a deep breath and began, “Sweetheart, you know Miss Baker?”

Solemnly, she nodded, her attention unwavering. What he wouldn’t do for something to set off her short attention span. Something to distract her and send her careening away from the table. He could shrug and say he’d tried. Hope it all worked out for the best.

No such luck.

“Well,” he paused and had to will himself to barrel forward, “I wanted to know why you think Miss Baker and I are going to get married.”

All of a sudden, it was like Mike didn’t exist. She wouldn’t look him in the eye, no matter how low Mike hunched to get in her line of sight. Maddie was, at least, still single-minded in her intensity. “Can I go play?” she asked, edging off her chair.

“When we’re done talking.”

“There, you finished!”

“Mads,” he groaned, “you know that’s not what I meant.”

His little girl pouted, slumping in her chair.

“Now, please tell me why you think Miss Baker is going to marry me.”

“Because she is.”

“That’s not a reason, kid. You—” he sighed, scrubbing a hand over his face “—you know we’re not really getting married, right? That’s just pretend?”

Maddie’s chin tipped up stubbornly. Still, Mike could see her lip begin to quiver. “It’s not pretend. You’re getting married and she’s going to be my new mommy.”

“Oh, sweetheart, that’s not true.”

Her shoulders began to shake and Mike felt like his own heart was breaking at the sight of the fat teardrops pooling in her eyes. He’d done that. Well, he and the the truth. Knowing he had about three seconds until a total meltdown, he slid around the table and gathered Maddie into his arms.

He’d just barely got his ass in the seat when the wailing started. Honestly, Mike wasn’t sure where his daughter learned to cry quite so theatrically, but it was impressive. He rubbed up and down her shuddering back, cradling her in his lap and not caring that she was definitely smearing snot and tears all over his shoulder. If she needed to cry this one out, he wasn’t about to stop her.

When the wailing died down, replaced mostly by sad little sniffles, Mike risked a question. “Which part is making you sad?”

He expected any number of replies. That they weren’t getting married. That Ginny wouldn’t be her mom. That she didn’t have a mom at all.

He didn’t think he could possibly have guessed her real answer in a million years.

Maddie peered up at him. Her little face was crumpled and red, tears still streaming down her cheeks. She took two, deep, juttery breaths, practically wheezing with the effort. Mike waited patiently, continuing to rub her back. Finally though, she managed to get out, “I don’t want Miss Baker to marry Jacob C’s uncle!”

“What?” Mike sputtered. He’d gotten pretty good at following the leaps in Maddie’s thought processes, but he was at a loss here.

“I told Jacob C. that his uncle can’t marry Miss Baker because she’s already going to marry you! But you say she’s not, so that means she has to marry him!” she collapsed, sobbing and drained, back against his shoulder.

Mike rubbed her back, soothing, but trying not to laugh at kindergarten logic. If this was all Maddie was worked up about, he felt just a tiny little bit less bad. Until he realized, Christ, he’d raised his kid to be as possessive as he was.

“Maddie, Miss Baker’s not going to marry anyone if she doesn’t want to.”

“But she wants to marry him!”

“Doesn’t that mean she probably doesn’t want to marry me, then?”

“She wants to marry you, too!” she mumbled stubbornly.

“What makes you think that, Mads?” he sighed, knowing it was pointless to just tell her she was wrong. His daughter was stubborn as hell. Mike wondered who she got it from…

She just shook her head, clinging tightly to his neck. Finally, after much coaxing, he got her to mutter something into his shirt.

“She smiles at us?” he checked, sure that couldn’t be right.

Maddie nodded, though, misery clinging to every inch of her tiny frame.

Again, Mike had to struggle to hold in a chuckle. His daughter the drama queen.

“You smile at Marcus and Gabe and all of your classmates. Does that mean you’re going to marry them?” A hesitant, short shake. “Okay. And how about me? I smile at lots of people. Your Aunt Evelyn and Uncle Blip, sometimes even at people I don’t know. Do you think I’m going to marry them?”

“No,” she admitted reluctantly, finally sitting up to frown at him. “But it’s different, daddy. She smiles different at you and Uncle Noah.”

Mike wasn’t sure how he felt about his kid calling some random man her uncle, but he got her point.

Strangely enough, it gave him hope, even if it should maybe have kickstarted that jealous streak. Just Livan saying a few words to her in Spanish had managed to set it off. Odd as it was, this news about a potential other guy in the picture didn’t really bother him in the least because maybe Mike had a shot with her. If Ginny liked him enough that even his kid could see it, maybe he hadn’t been imagining things. Maybe he hadn’t been getting his hopes up for nothing.

He didn’t tell Maddie, though. While he could handle dashed dreams—in fact, did every baseball season—he wasn’t going to risk subjecting his daughter to this heartache again.

Not until he knew for sure how Ginny felt, at least.

It was all well and good to resolve to have a grown up conversation with the woman he was rapidly developing feelings for. But, as anyone could tell you come February, it was one thing to resolve to do something and an entirely different thing to actually do it.

Which was how Mike made it to the middle of December, only a few days to go before winter break, without making any kind of headway. This was his last day volunteering of the semester.

Which was why he was still lingering in Ginny’s room as his daughter and her classmates ate in the cafeteria. He was supposed to go when they filed out for lunch, but Ginny hadn’t kicked him out and Mike wasn’t leaving until she did or he figured out what to do.

Urgency and a general lack of a game plan, unfortunately, hadn’t yet made for a winning combination, and now was no different.

“My daughter tells me I should be congratulating you.”

Ginny looked up from where she was organizing a stack of artwork to send home, a confused frown furrowing her brow. Mike could’ve kicked himself, but he’d already sunk this far, might as well keep digging.

“She’s under the impression that you’re marrying Jacob Casey’s uncle.”

“Ah,” she laughed, a muted flush darkening her cheek. “That’s the news on the kindergarten grapevine these days, huh?”

“So I hear.”

She busied herself straightening the stack, but peeked up at him, uncharacteristically shy. Cute as she was, Mike kind of missed her giving him shit.

“Noah Casey is a perfectly nice guy,” she said, standing from her desk and picking up the pile of drawings.

“I sense a but,” Mike said, not at all hopefully.

“But,” she continued, casting him an exasperated glance. “he’s not really my type. Now help me put these in the cubbies, and stop fishing for gossip.”

Mike could take a hint. He also took half the pile off Ginny’s hands and started divvying artwork into the appropriate cubbies. Some of it was suspect to say the least. He knew these were just kindergartners, but geez, how did Ginny manage to stay so positive with them?

“Oh!” she exclaimed, brandishing a familiar drawing at him. “Here’s Maddie’s family portrait. She showed you, didn’t she?”

“She did,” he assured, his attention caught on the curly haired figure standing next to the bearded one. Was this how long Maddie had been thinking Ginny would join their family? Sweet Jesus.

“It was nice getting to put faces to—well, drawings, I guess. At Thanksgiving. I thanked you for inviting me, didn’t I?”

She had. Mike had walked her to the door and wished her a safe drive home. She’d straightened from pulling on her sneakers and smiled at him, rocking forward on her toes and wrapping her arms around his shoulders in a quick hug, murmuring her thank you in his ear before she pulled away.

It was a miracle he’d managed to see her out without incident. Or without the snickers that broke out as soon as the door swung closed blowing his cover.

Without turning to Blip—because who else would it have been?—he’d muttered, “Shut up,” and gone to haul Maddie upstairs to her bedroom.

“You know that one’s supposed to be you, right?” he blurted rather than respond to her question. As soon as the words were out of his mouth, he wished the ground would open up beneath him and swallow him whole. It was turning into something of a theme today.

“Yeah,” she replied, smiling fondly down at the picture. “Maddie was so excited, she got out of her seat and ran up to my desk to show me. She told me that you were going to marry me and—”

“She what?” Mike sputtered, thrown for a loop.

“Oh,” she said, the picture of innocence. If he hadn’t spent the past three months getting to know her, he would’ve believed it, but the glimmer in her eye told Mike that Ginny knew exactly what she’d done. “Has she not told you this plan?”

“No, she has,” he wheezed. “I didn’t realize that she started with you, though.”

“It’s not so weird,” Ginny assured him, mischief melting into something softer. “Apparently, lots of kids with single dads think that about their teachers. I’ll take it as a compliment. I mean, I thought my kindergarten teacher was a witch all year. I still think that actually.”

Mike couldn’t help but laugh. It was laugh or worry himself sick over the fact that his five-year-old had decided to become his wingman.

“Well, I’m sorry if my daughter sexually harassed you on my account.”

That horsey laugh he’d become so fond of made an appearance. Ginny had to brace herself on her knees from the force of it. When she peeked up at him, her face red and eyes sparkling, Mike had to swallow down a few truly stupid urges.

Finally, she straightened, still giggling a little. “No, no! She actually made some solid arguments in your favor.”

“Did she?”

“Yeah. She said that you have a pool and you know how to make the best blanket forts and usually, you take just her to all the baseball games during the summer, but she was sure I could come, too.” Mike laughed a little disbelievingly at that, and Ginny joined in. “To be fair, I hadn’t realized you were an actual player at that point, so I just thought she might not realize how season tickets work.”

“She definitely doesn’t.”

“Well, either way, it was clear how much she loves you. Maddie would be a shark in sales.”

Mike blinked, wondering if he was reading too much into that. Had his kid sold her on him before they even met? And if she’d liked him to begin with, what did she think now that they actually knew each other?

“Would she?” he asked, trying to keep his tone neutral, but unable to keep his head from tilting to the side, giving away his curiosity.

Ginny’s attention slid over to him. For a long moment, she studied him out of the corner of her eye before going back to distributing the last pieces of art into the correct cubbies.

Just when he’d given up on getting a response, she murmured, “Well, I guess it’s not such a hard sell.”

It took every ounce of Mike’s willpower not to whirl on her at that. Instead, he calmly slid Emily P’s family portrait into her mailbox and turned calmly, sedately even, to face the teacher, his hands finally empty. Ginny was definitely blushing now, the high arches of her cheeks rosier than they had been before. Studiously, she kept her focus off of him, up until she, too, ran out of art to occupy her focus.

When her hands were empty, too, she dared a peek up at him and gulped when she saw Mike’s attention squarely on her. Only then did Mike ask, “Oh really?”

Her flush darkened and she swallowed. To her credit, though, she didn’t allow herself to look away, and even turned to face him head on.

In spite of her blush, her embarrassment, Ginny shrugged, almost managing nonchalance. “I mean, in spite of the fact that you’re constantly rolling your eyes at me and you’re really way too grumpy for someone who plays a kid’s game for a living and you refuse to put that creature on your face out of its misery, yeah, Mike. It’s not that hard to sell someone on you.”

His grin threatened to split his face in half it was so wide.

“You know,” he said, taking a step towards her and not bothering to tamp down on that wild grin, not even a little bit, “I think Maddie was trying to talk you up, too.”

Her head tipped back so she could keep her eyes firmly on his, but she didn’t back up. Not when it was her turn to ask, “Oh really?”

“Yep. She told me that you knew all the best games and read stories with the right voices and have a secret candy stash. And even though now I know you’re only in the teaching game so you can raise your own, mini feminist army—”

“Feminist army?” she laughed.

“And you just love to interrupt me,” he continued, grin still in place, “and are lying through your teeth about my beard, I can see that Maddie was maybe onto something.”

“Something, huh?” Ginny took her own step forward, the toes of her sneakers nearly bumping against Mike’s boots. Her face tilted up to his, dimples fully on display as she practically beamed up at him. The last time they’d been this close, Ginny’d hugged him and Mike hadn’t known what to do with himself. He still didn’t know what to do with himself, but he intended to get more than a hug.

As long as she was okay with it.

“I’m going to kiss you now,” he warned, lips mere inches from hers, hands settling on her waist.

“You better,” she breathed, her own hands landing on his chest and sliding appreciatively up to his shoulders.

Agreement secured, Mike leaned in and sealed his mouth over hers.

He was fully aware, even as he pulled Ginny closer and nipped at her full bottom lip, that he really shouldn’t be making out with his daughter’s teacher in his daughter’s classroom during school hours. Anyone, from another teacher to the principal to, oh yeah, his daughter, could walk in on them. He couldn’t quite bring himself to care, though. Not with Ginny’s fingers stroking against his beard as she cradled his face. Especially not when she sighed into him, opening her mouth to his. Their tongues tangled together, neither a contest of wills nor a conquest, just gentle, curious exploration.

When they finally broke apart, Ginny hid her face in his chest, giggling a little helplessly as she caught her breath. He understood the feeling; he was pretty overwhelmed, too. Mike’s thumbs rubbed small circles into her sides, just below her rib cage, both to comfort and because he couldn’t bring himself to let go.

Her giggles died away, but she didn’t emerge from the front of his shirt. He leaned back to try and get some view of her face, but she rocked with him. It was his turn to chuckle. In retaliation, Ginny stepped on his foot.

“Hey!” he protested, not that she’d actually hurt him. “If that’s how it’s gonna be, then maybe I shouldn’t ask you out to dinner over the break.”

That finally got her to look up. It’d hardly been five minutes, but seeing her face again was such a relief. What kind of magic was that?

“After that,” she countered through swollen lips, leaving no doubt to what she meant, “you better.”

It took a few years, but Mike eventually paid her back for that.

In the space between the officiant asking, “Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?” and Ginny’s response he mouthed the words back at her.

You better.

Even with all the time between that day and this, all the memories they’d created together, Mike watched the recollection click and her smile grow even wider.

Eyes sparkling as brightly as the day he met her—as stunned as he’d been that day, it had nothing on the depth of his feelings now—Ginny responded, nearly overflowing with joy, “I do.”

This time, Mike wasn’t going to wait to be told he could kiss her. Instead, he drew his wife—his wife!—forward and was well ahead of the curve by the time he heard, “You may now kiss the bride.”

Judging by the way Ginny laughed into his mouth, she didn’t mind one bit.

#mindykahling #Bawson #Bawson fic #Pitch #Pitch fic #this is the fluffiest #seriously i gave myself a toothache #and i loved every second of it

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