#band needs a singer. singer needs a microphone. money. microphone needs a stand. money. microphone needs a pa system. money. fucked up world

[like-eachothersghosts]

the more serious we get about putting this band together the more costs we discover. what the fuck is a mic stand doing being $80. starting a band should be free. everything besides like one or two guitars and a bass should just spawn in to your practice space of choice.

[ohquail]

School Bus Graveyard but make it a band

I have seen art about this topic floating around the internet but this is my take on the idea.

Ashlyn: Main Singer, the lead. The one everyone comes to the performances for- she is also able to play guitar for the songs she needs to.

Aiden: Die hard fan, plus the manager of the band. He takes care of any money problems that come their way.

Ben: The drummer and how Aiden became the manager. Ben likes to stay hidden on stage and only interacts with the crowd when he's introduced. He is also their composer/writer for their music.

Logan: Keyboardist and violinist (but only when needed). He is also a crowd favorite.

Tyler: Lead Guitarist. He is unusually quiet on stage so people don't really notice him. Tyler also helps Ben write the music. Tyler also likes leading songs with singing, despite the death threats that Ashlyn's fans send him.

Taylor: Bassist. She isn't a crowd favorite because bassist's usually aren't but it is obvious that people really like her. Taylor also helps Ben compose their music.

Aiden started up at the singer on stage, her long red hair cascaded down her back as she belted the words to the song beautifully. To say he was entranced would be an understatement. The way she moved with an elegance that only added to the allure; every sway matched the cadence of the tune and every gesture depicted a story. Aiden’s heart pounded in his chest as he watched her, so distant yet so close, bathed in the glow of multicolored stage lights.

Then, she looked down into the crowd. Her emerald eyes met Aiden's and for a split second, time seemed to freeze. Her lips turned up slightly at the corners; a knowing smile that made his heart skip a beat. The music around him drowned into a distant hum and all he could hear was her voice, rising and falling like waves on an ocean.

The song ended with a soft strum of guitar strings and echoing applause filled the room, snapping Aiden back to reality.

“Alright! Is everyone having a good time tonight?” Ashlyn asked the crowd. The crowd erupted in cheers and whistles, the thunderous applause vibrating through the very floorboards. “Well, we are so glad!”

Aiden was so glad his cousin gave him a ticket to his band’s concert. His eyes darted over to Ben on the drums, who was clearly waiting for Ashlyn to introduce the next song.

“Who wants to hear an unreleased song?” Ashlyn’s voice rang out over the crowd. She put her hand to her ear as the crowd screamed in unison, an eager and deafening affirmation. Her laughter, warm and infectious, bubbled through the microphone as she teased, “Well, you asked for it!”

Turning her gaze back towards the band, she gave them a nod and took a step back as the new tune began to fill the air. Aiden darted his eyes to each of the band members. Tyler the guitarist, who sung into his microphone as he started the song off, then Taylor the bassist who was standing waiting for her entrance, finally Logan the keyboardist who looked so pleased with himself as his fingers dances around on the keys.

The melody was fresh, unlike anything Aiden had heard before. It was like fine wine, a little sweet with a hint of bitterness that left a longing for more. Ashlyn looked up and closed her eyes, letting the rhythm take over. Her lips moved gracefully as she sang the opening lines, her voice blending harmoniously with Tyler's guitar strums.

Aiden found himself entranced once again. She swayed with such passion to the beat, letting herself be lost in the music. The lights illuminated her face and made her hair look like a fiery halo around her head. He couldn't help but be drawn in by the energy radiating from Ashlyn and the rest of the band.

As Taylor's bass notes kicked in and Logan's fingers swiftly ran over the keys, Aiden felt his pulse matching the rhythm of the song. He could feel every emotion each lyric conveyed; it was as if Ashlyn was singing directly to him. His heart pounded in his chest harder than before and he leaned forward, eyes wide as he watched Ashlyn pour her soul into the song.

[gumballavocadoharry]

Stage down:

"Ten minutes until the show starts Ms. Ln." Your assistant ringed in through your dressing room door. You sent her a small smile with a nod and continued putting on your lipstick. Harry, your boyfriend was neighbored next door to you and didn't fail to make a pit stop into your dressing room before and after every show. The both of you had collaborated on a song together and the duet couldn't have been more perfect.

Although, the only problem was these past few shows, you had been feeling a bit lethargic and extremely tired. In fact, if it weren't for Mitch's guitar stand and your microphone stand, you would've easily fell over. But you were determined to put on this show. After all, it was the last one on the set list; that alone gave you the required ambition to continue.

Your sparkly magenta skirt swished in the breeze as you ran on stage by your duet partner and started performing your song. In the middle, your legs felt tingly; like pins and needles had been inserted into them. You tried sitting down, but how much sense would it make to sit during an act like this where you need to be up and dancing.

Your lungs felt heavy and clouded, you had trouble catching your breath and hitting those high notes. Harry turned, noticing how off key you sounded. The attention from everyone made your cheeks burn a bright illuminating red; fearing the harsh critical reactions from the people who payed hard earned money just to come and see you fail and drag Harry down too. Those thoughts had only worsened your panic attack, and pretty soon, you felt yourself knocking over your microphone stand and feeling the shiny but cold ground of the stage.

Feeling yourself laugh in a state of incredulity mixed in mortification made you want the stage to swallow you up whole. The music stopped, and all the band members and Harry were standing over you; Harry hysterical and begging for water. He lifted you head to take a sip but eventually found it best to carry you backstage. You didn't look him in the eyes once, despite you feeling his gaze on you the whole time. Tears dripped onto the floor as you stared out; seeing the fast paced walls and doors before finally being slowed and carried into your dressing room.

"Hey Yn, can you hear me?" Harry's soft songbird voice echoed into you, "Yeah..." A soft raspy whisper like response mirrored. "I ruined the show didn't I? The last show of the tour and clumsy me just had to pass out." Harry furrowed his eyebrows even more deeply. "Absolutely not! Baby, you couldn't help it. Everyone gets burned out sometimes, but you did not ruin the show and you are still a wonderful singer."

You turned away in shame; still not wanting to face Harry. "I feel like a fool. Everyone staring....my skirt flew up....and it-" You choked, "It was just a big mess." Harry put his hand gently on your cheek, wiping away the straying tears. "Don't worry about it Yn. You did amazing this whole time and I think.....I think that you just need rest." He pressed a soft kiss to your cheek before disappearing back onto stage.

You saw where Harry left his jacket there on purpose. To give something for you to sniff and smell; his scent being there to soothe you enough to fall asleep until they could get you to a doctor.

Your heart fluttered. You were the happiest girl in the world even in your worst moments.

To @barbiegirlharleyquinn ❤

[sakuraaachan]

Another Love - Izuku M.

This fic is based off the song 'Another Love - Tom Odell' (I do not own this song!!) I do recommend listening to it while you read though!

Izuku x Singer! Reader

Rating: violence, murder, stalking, drinking, cheating

Wanna submit a request? Click here

This is the full version of the story!

It takes a lot of courage to stand on a stage in front of a vast crowd. All the attention is on you, the spotlight is on you, everyone’s eyes are on you. It was enough pressure to make you throw up, but it was the only place that you really felt comfortable.

Behind you is the band, the music behind your voice. They waited, ready for you to signal them to start. You exhaled through your nose, placing your hands on the microphone which was held up by a stand.

The crowd turned silent, sounds of coughing and throats clearing echoed in the stadium, reminding you they were waiting, waiting for you, they were all here just for you. He was here, he was here just for you. 

You were nervous, feeling your heartbeat through your ears as you slowly raised your hand, the band members shuffled a bit, getting into position before finally you signaled. The piano is so loud, and you want to run back into the darkness. But that wasn’t an option, not if you wanted him to come back.

You swallow your saliva to try and ease the dryness in your throat, giving one last breath before your lips parted.

I wanna take you somewhere so you know I care

Injure Picture @injurepictureoffical

Y/n L/n performs the hit song ‘Love Like Yours’ live at [------]. Check out our website for more information on Y/n’s upcoming shows. http://bit.ly/86ghdy

Rand0m Ch1ld @thechildernarenotwell

replying to @injurepictureoffical

OMGWJIDK I CAN’T BELIEVE I MISSED IT. 

メアリー♡!!。@zannyi

Seeing Y/n up close was like going to heaven and meeting an angel, she is so sweet!

Luna @lunabottcher89

My wedding song was ‘Love Like Yours’, singing it to my baby daughter every day.

Anonymous @youdontknowme

Y/n is the human cupid, her songs make everyone fall in love!

Yasmin @battzluv455

replying to @youdontknowme

All her songs are about her boyfriend, they’ve been dating since highschool. True fans know that.

Sam @eazydub23

replying to @battzluv455

She has a boyfriend? Heart = broken !!

“Hey babe!” You click your phone off, shoving it into your pocket before walking over to your boyfriend and pressing your lips to his cheek. “I got your text, why the sudden meetup?”

“Hey bunny,” Josh smiles as he speaks, his charming grin makes your heart skip a beat. He grabs your hand, lacing your fingers before leading you down the street, “I just wanted to take my girlfriend out.”

 It was the moments like these where you enjoyed life the most. When you smile so hard your cheeks hurt, but you can’t stop because the person you're with just makes you so happy that you have to smile.

“How was the performance yesterday?” Josh brings you to a cafe, sitting across from you, “sorry I couldn’t make it, you know I would have loved to be there.”

“It’s okay! We can always just listen to it together, just you and me.” You stirred your recently ordered coffee, pouring in the tiny little cups of cream. “It’s about when you asked me to be your girlfriend.”

Josh lets out a hearty laugh, “wow… that was so long ago, you remember?”

“Well, it was one of the best days of my life!” You laugh alongside him, “and…I wrote the song based on how I was feeling.”

He nods, clicking his tongue as he watches you take a sip of your coffee. You give him a curious glance, “are you not going to get anything babe?”

“Listen bunny…” Josh exhales through his nose, before placing his arms on the table, “I…I need some more money.”

“What happened to the money I gave you two weeks ago?” You place your mug down, “Josh that was well over five thousand dollars, how did you spend it all in such a short period of time?”

You can hear his foot tapping against the floor under the table, “I’m saving up for something big.”

Well just tell me what it is, I’ll give you the exact amount you need.”

“That’s the problem bunny,” his hand slides over to yours, his index finger rubbing up and down on your finger. “It’s a surprise…I can’t tell you.”

You stare at him blankly, biting back a goofy smile, picking up your phone. “How much do you need?

“Yes! Thank you buns!” Josh squeezes your hand, telling you the amount he needed. You grin at his elated face, sending him the money before putting your phone away.

“Thank you bunny, you are literally the best,” he presses his lips to your knuckles before releasing your hand to check his phone. “Shoot.”

Your smile falters, “what’s wrong?”

“I gotta go, something just came up.” He waves over a waitress, “can I get two blueberry muffins in a to-go box?”

The woman nods before walking off, and Josh looks at you as he packs up his stuff. “You’ve got the bill, right bunny?”

You couldn’t even respond before Josh is walking away, grabbing his to-go container from the waitress walking up. You lean your chin against the palm of your hand, a loving sigh escaping your lips as a smile graces your features.

But it's so cold and I don't know where

“He’s going to propose!” You’re laid out on your bed, legs kicking out in excitement as you squealed into your pillow. “That’s why he has been needing so much money lately.”

After dating for about 10 years, you were finally going to marry the love of your life. Since high school this was all you could ever dream about, wearing a huge wedding dress, planning the reception, walking down the aisle. 

Your life was all about Josh, without him…you don’t know where you would have been. Your singing career would have never flourished, and you’d probably be working some office job.

All your songs were written based on your sentiments with Josh, happy moments where your heart could just burst out of your chest.  It was your brand, songs that made people remember their times with loved ones, the public adored it.

Reaching over to your bedside table, you grab a spiral purple notebook before flipping to a new page. So many lyrics were forming in your head, as you hummed along to them to try and find a rhythm.

There’s a knock at your door, before you hear it creak open. “How's my favorite client?” 

“Hey Dave!” You look over your shoulder, grinning at your manager. “I’m doing just fine!”

“This is a gift from the studio.” He has a huge gift basket in his hand, walking over to your wardrobe and placing it down. “Someone seems a little excited, heard something I didn’t?”

“No,” you giggle. “I’m just in a good mood.”

“Well at least your writing!” Dave’s eyes land onto your notebook, a grin coming across his face. “I assume we’ll have a new hit album coming out soon.”

“I dunno, I kinda want to keep this one to myself, it’s personal,” you turn back to your notebook. 

You had Dave to thank for all the fame you had to this day. He listed you to your first couple of gigs and advertised the hell out of you. Without Dave, you’d probably still be singing at local bars trying to get some higher up managers to notice you.

“Well, I’m sure you'll change your mind.” Dave’s grin falters a bit. “I’ll leave you to it now, don’t want to interrupt the process.”

But like all managers, Dave had his flaws. He was a little too pushy on making romance songs and only romance, he didn’t allow for you to write about anything else but your love life. Which wasn’t a dilemma, since that’s all you wanted to write about anyway.

I brought you daffodils on a pretty string

“How do I look mom?” You twirled in your shiny silver dress, a deep shade of red grazed over your lips along with some eyeshadow to complete the look.

“Wonderful darling,” your mother’s face was close up in the camera on the facetime call. “Are you sure he’s going to propose?”

“I’m 99% sure, otherwise I got my hair and nails done for nothing.” You pick up your phone, checking your messages to see if Josh had texted you.

“Where’d you go?” You can hear your mom tapping on her phone, “why does my screen say paused, did you pause me Y/n?”

“I’m just checking to see if Josh is ready, I have to go pick him up.”

“Didn’t he invite you to dinner?” You click back onto the facetime, and your mother gives you a look. “And you're picking him up? Doesn’t that boy know how to drive?”

“His car broke down, and it’s no big deal mom.” You look at the notification you got from Josh, “I’ve gotta go, I’ll call you after dinner.”

“Okay honey, love you bye!”

But they won't flower like they did last spring

“You look amazing bunny.”

The restaurant Josh brought you to was exquisite, and very expensive. There was no possible chance you were walking out of here without a ring. 

“Thank you..” You tuck a strand behind your ear, “I wanted to look my best for you.”

“Good evening sir and ma’am, can I get you started with any drinks?” The waitress walks over, holding her leathered notepad as Josh orders some champagne.

She nods her head before turning towards you. “Just water please, with lemon.”

“Water? Come on buns, loosen up a little.”

“You know I can’t do that Josh,” you told him, shaking your head with disapproval. “Dave would have a heart attack if he saw me drunk on the news.”

His hand comes over yours, persistent, “come on, you know I wouldn’t let that happen. I’ll take care of you.”

You feel your face get hot as your left leg starts to bounce up and down with excitement. “Yeah, I know you’ll take care of me…you always have.”

Two flutes of champagne are sat on the table along with your glass of water with a wedge of lemon lucked against the glass. “To us?” Josh holds out his glass, and reluctantly you grab yours watching some of the bubbles float to the top before clicking your flute with his.

“To us.”

And I wanna kiss you, make you feel alright

The night continued to go on, Josh going on about how busy he’s been with work which had been making him unavailable to come see you as often as he wanted to.

All this conversation, but you still didn’t have a ring. What was he waiting for?

The food arrived and you almost needed another table to fit everything that Josh had ordered. You finished your salad quickly as your boyfriend continued to chow down on his expensive steak.

You rest your temple on your hand, staring down at your plate with boredom. The thrill of anticipation is long gone by now.

“Bunny?”

You look up, snapped out of your trance by Josh. He wipes his face with a white cloth, before clearing his throat. Suddenly that spark of hope is relit within your gut. 

“You’ve got the bill right?”

Your eye twitches a little but you force yourself to smile. “Of course babe.”

He grins before getting back to itching, using his fork to shove some potato in his mouth, “thanks buns, y’know this whole date thing is kinda romantic, you should write a song about it. Could make some good money-”

“Josh.” 

“Yeah?” He continues to chew his food. “Something wrong?”

“Are you gonna propose to me tonight?” 

He stiffens, grabbing his glass and drinking the rest of his champagne. “Uh…no, what gave you that idea?”

“Are you ever gonna propose to me Josh?” You feel tears threatening to spill out your eyes, but you bite your lips in hope they’ll hold off for a while. “You’ve been asking for a lot of money lately and I-.”

You stop talking at the sound of chucking, your throat running dry. Josh hoots with laughter across from you, holding his stomach as all the attention in the restaurant is brought to your table.

“You thought- I was gonna marry you?” He says between his laughs, wiping a tear from his eyes. You couldn’t find the funny in this situation, feeling embarrassed, like a child who had been called out for having an accident in front of the class.

“That’s a good one, bunny!” His laughter calms down a bit, and he looks at your pained face “wait…you're serious?” 

“Yes! We’ve been together for what? Ten years, what are you waiting for?!” Your voice sounded desperate, feeling helpless to the situation at hand. Josh snorts, bringing his hand up to his face.

You couldn’t take it anymore, standing up and leaving without looking back, Josh continued to laugh at your retreating form, trying to catch his breath so he could speak.

“Wait- buns-- where are you going? You gotta pay the check!”

As you walk away from the table, the weight of disappointment and humiliation settles heavily on your shoulders. The sound of Josh's laughter echoes in your ears, intensifying the pain. You fight back tears, determined to maintain some dignity in this situation.

I'm just so tired to share my nights

I wanna cry and I wanna love

Celebrity News @celebnews

Footage of famous singer Y/n having an argument with her boyfriend Josh Solace at 5-Star restaurant ‘Catch 35’. http://you.tbe/wgsj76

Akrio @kiroarts

replying to @celebnews

WTFFF - are they still together ?!?!

Miss Vidzy @casanova replying to @celebnews

OH MY GOD, look at Y/n she crying! Poor baby!

C0rnzy @real_name_hidden

Looks like Y/n just got a wake up call. #NoMoreLoveSongs

But all my tears have been used up

Celebrity News @celebnews

Josh Solace, popular singer Y/n’s boyfriend, sighted several times with Bethany Winterburg. Is this the start of an open relationship? Or a devastating breakup?

Kaden @anonymouse

replying to @celebnews

What the hell! Didn’t they just have an argument yesterday?!

User @usernamenotfound

He hurt my Y/n. He’ll die.

You clicked your phone off, placing it faced down on your sheets. A groan escapes your lips as you turn to flip over, struggling as yesterday’s dress restricted your movement.

The room was dark, curtains shutting out the sunlight attempting to spill in. One day, it had been a day since your fight with Josh and he already had found a new girl.

You had scrolled through the internet all night, finding more and more photos of him and Bethany. It wouldn’t take a genius to figure out Josh’s relationship with Bethany wasn’t new, it was something he had been doing behind your back. 

It felt like your whole life was a lie, all you had ever done was love Josh, and you believed wholeheartedly that he loved you too. A tear descends down your cheek, the moisture mixing up with your makeup, burning your eye.

More tears begin to fall down your face as you begin to pathetically sob. Clasping your hands to cover your eyes as your lip drawback as you cry.

“Fuck!” You shout into the nothingness, falling deeper and deeper into despair. “Fuck! Fuck!”

Your hands smooth into your hair, grabbing at your strands as you start to pull. You whine out of agony, frustration evident in your voice. “God fucking damnit!”

On another love, another love

All my tears have been used up

FSNEW @famoussingersnewsoffical

It’s been a week since the break up with Y/n L/n and Josh Solace, and while Josh is getting busy with his new lover Bethany Winterberg, we have no updates on Y/n. It seems the singer might be going dark, as all her social media are inactive and concerts have been canceled. Is this the fall of our greatest star?

Courtney <3 @thegoat56

replying to @famoussingersnewsoffical

I ordered my tickets 6 months ago and now they’ve been canceled. Disappointed !! 

Aurelius @justartie

replying to @thegoat56

I blame Josh! How dare he cheat on Y/n with that blondie. I bet she has no talent whatsoever. #JusticeforY/n

On another love, another love

All my tears have been used up

“Y/n!”

A couple knocks could be heard at your front door, before a jingle of keys clashing together. Soon the front door opens, and your name is called once again. “Y/n!”

Footsteps walk down the hallway before a soft knocking is heard at your bedroom door. Dave creaks the door open, peeping his head in before he opens the door fully.

You sat at a chair placed at the window of your balcony, staring out into the city. Beside the leg of the table were some empty bottles of liquor.

“Ay Y/n,” Dave sighs into his hand. 

You look over your shoulder, taking a swig of your drink. “Go away Dave.”

“Y/n, the people are worried about you, and what’s this about canceling concerts, you never ran that by me-” 

“It’s me on that stage right?” You take another sip, “if I cancel, I cancel, so fucking what.”

“When you cancel, I lose money.” He protested, walking over to take the liquor from your hands “look, I have you for a concert downtown tonight, if you could just sober up.”

“Leave me alone!” You shove him away, standing up as you finish the last of the liquid. “I don’t wanna fucking sing, how the hell…am I supposed to sing a song about that…cheating bastard.”

“Because that’s your brand Y/n, that is your career-”

“Then fuck this job.”

Dave stops himself from fighting with you further, taking a deep breath to calm himself down. He rubs the middle of his eyebrows before sighing, “look, just hang tight. I’ll handle this.”

He leaves the room, closing the door behind him. You sit back in your chair, leaning your head against the glass window before mumbling. 

“I need another drink.”

On another love, another love

All my tears have been used up, up

Lorna Newell @lornanothere

[http//jnn.nws/ahsu6ja] JNN Article - A 26 year-old female was found dead, police say she was stabbed in an alleyway, probably taken by surprise. The victim’s name, Bethany Winterburg. Read more…

ElliottTheIdiott @intellengencenotfound454

replying to @lornanothere

I’m just gonna say it, it’s what she deserves. 

Izzy @lillesaremyfavorite876

replying to @intellengencenotfound454

You seriously think someone has to die just cause they happened to have an affair with a celebrity's boyfriend? That poor girl’s family.

*{P.A.N.D.A}* @hamburger8756

replying to @lornanothere

I heard Deku is going to be helping the police with the investigation !! 

Mitsu [commissions open ] @artbymitsu

replying to @hamburger8756

Oh great, here come the hero stans….

And if somebody hurts you, I wanna fight

“Good evening Ms. L/n”

You only give the door-man a simple nod, entering the lobby of your penthouse. A sweet scent of vanilla entering your nostrils and the soft melody of a piano entered your ears.

A brown paper bag was in your arms, small clinks could be heard as you neared the elevator. You clicked the button, waiting a moment for the elevator to reach the bottom before you entered through the sliding doors.

In the back of the elevator was a mirror, showing you a reflection of yourself. Damn…you’ve really changed. Your hair was neglected, stringy and oily, and your face was still recovering from all the crying.

You tear your eyes away from the mirror pressing your floor on the elevator before pulling out your phone. 

“Beathany is dead?” You mutter under your breath, clicking onto the article to read it through. The elevator doors open, and you continue to look at your phone as you unconsciously walk towards your home, apparently the girl was forced into an alleyway while walking home and was brutally murdered in the dark. “Yikes…”

You continue to scroll, looking at the comments, most were people giving their condolences or expressing their shock of the situation. Except…this one commenter, they kept replying the same thing over and over again.

‘Long live Y/n’

‘Long live Y/n’

You kept scrolling and scrolling, the same message from the same account over and over again. 

A small tud makes you pause, shoving your phone back into your pocket as you look over your shoulder to see where the sound came from.

“Um…hello?” You meant to shout, but it was barely a whisper.

You stare down the hallway, clenching your jaw as you wait to see if anybody would come around the corner. A sudden flash behind you makes you snap your attention to the front door, the sound of a camera’s shutter being all too familiar. 

The door slams shut before you could see who it was, sounds of heavy footsteps running behind the door could be heard. You let out a loud groan, placing your paper bags down by your doorstep before knocking on the door of Penthouse 817.

“Hey! The press isn't allowed up here! I will sue you so hard!”

The door clicks open from your harsh pounding, creaking open to show a very empty penthouse still undergoing construction. You click your tongue, pushing the door further open as you step inside. 

“I really need you to delete that photo, look….you delete that photo and…I’ll have my manager Dave hook you up with free albums,” you creep inside the penthouse, the scent of freshly cut wood wafting in the air. “I’ll even sign each album for you.”

It was mainly dark inside the penthouse, only lights coming from the ones the construction people used. You turned a corner entering a very large living room which had a small luminate room in the back.

“Gotcha.” You mutter.

You walk over to the room, grabbing the door knob before you swing the door open expecting to find a young fan, but your face drops at what you're greeted with instead. 

The walls were covered with photos, each of them had one focus, you.

But it wasn’t just any photo of you, all of them were taken either from your own home, when you were disguised and out with Josh, there were even some of you showering. There were desks and drawers, and a small computer system in the corner, the home screen a photo of you sleeping, aside it a basket of bloody tampons which you could only assume were yours.

You froze with shock, just standing still in the door frame as you read some words which were scribbled onto the only clear wall. ‘Long live Y/n’

But my hands been broken one too many times

“Y/n are you okay?”

You take a long sip of your drink, placing the glass down as you move to wave Dave off, the chubby man checking you over for any injuries, you push his hands away. “I’m fine Dave, just shocked.”

“Good,” he lets out a sigh, pulling out his phone and sending a few messages. “I’ll arrange a new house for you to stay in, you're in need of some new scenery.”

You stay silent, swigging your drink as you watch the police officers enter and exit the penthouse. One man exits the room, his outfit drawing your attention as it was not a police uniform, but a hero costume.

He was a fairly tall man, packed with lean muscles, and broad across the shoulders, the total opposite of your beer bellied manager. His green suit and hair gives away his identity easily, number one Pro Hero Deku.

You stare at him, watching him talk with some of the officers. He pauses for a second, turning his head slightly to meet eyes with you.

You blink as you dart your eyes away, David was right, you did need a new environment. You’d only moved into this penthouse to live closer to Josh, in hopes that he’d move in with you one day.

Memories of your old apartment came to mind, you never sold it because of the moments you had shared there. It was located in Musutafu, just a 30 minute trip from where you lived now.

“Dave.” You tap the man’s shoulder, distracting him from his phone call. “I'm gonna stay at my old place.”

“Hold on, I'll call you back,” Dave says into the phone before bringing his full attention to you. “Y/n, I can have a Dimond hotel ready in 5 minutes, it's an all inclusive spa and everything, it’ll help you feel better and maybe you’ll want to sing again.”

“I’m going to my old place,” you tell him again. “I’m going back to Musutafu.”

You walk off before he could say anything, entering your penthouse to pack a bag with everything you need. You open your wardrobe and begin to stuff the bag with random shirts and pants.

You drop the bag onto your bad, grabbing the 3 bottles from your brown paper bag and shoving them in the bag, leaving one out and opening it. The taste of the clear liquor is bitter, but it fills that bottomless feeling inside you.

You zip the bag up before walking out the room, heading down the steps back towards Dave. He’s on the phone once again, but when he sees you coming he quickly hangs up and rushes over to you.

“Y/n, please reconsider, just stay at the hotel for a couple of days, and get yourself right in the head. You’ve just been through something traumatic.”

“No, Dave.” You say again, taking another swig of your drink. “I’m going home.”

“You’re drunk,” he says again, moving in front of you so you couldn’t walk out. “You can’t drive to Musutafu in your condition.”

“I’ll drive her.”

You and Dave look over to the side, and your eyes meet with a young tall man. “Sorry, I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation,” it was Deku, he gave an awkward smile as he walked in further. “But I live in Musutafu, and I wouldn’t mind taking her home.”

You look over at Dave, “and he’s a hero, no need to worry about my safety, problem solved.”

So I'll use my voice, I'll be so fucking rude

It was a smooth ride in the car, Deku had the radio playing in the background. It was one of your songs, you could tell by the melody even though the volume was very low.

Your bags were sitting in the back seat, and you held a half-empty bottle in between your lap. Occasionally you take a swig as you stare at the passing by street lights.

“So…” Deku clears his throat, “are you sure you’re gonna be okay?”

“Yeah,” You watch his finger drum on the steering wheel, it’s obvious he has something he wants to say. “Just say what you wanna say already.”

“Sorry!” he stiffens, “but..I’m actually a really big fan.”

“Of course you are,” you groan, relaxing more into the car seat, “you want an autograph or something for taking me home?”

“Not at all!” He says all too quickly, “being able to take you home is more than enough for me.”

You can’t help but smirk, chuckling under your breath. Izuku looks over at you and smiles as well, still a little bit embarrassed. “You’re cute, you know that,” you say before taking another sip, “the number one hero of Japan, is a fan of mine, that’s cute.”

“Wha- I really am! I have all your albums!” He panics, opening up the middle compartment and grabbing a CD. 

You stare with amusement before bursting out into laughter, “I didn’t even know they sold these!” He lowers his head, embarrassed and you continue to laugh. “It's okay Deku, it’s okay! I’m just surprised, you're way more famous than me.”

“I’m not that-”

“Shut up, number one.” You interrupt him, “you won thousands awards all over town, and I’ve only got like 2 to my name.”

“Only 2?” He says with his eyebrows raised. “You deserve so much more!”

“Oh stop!” You put your hand up, “my whole brand is love songs, other song artists deserve it way more.”

“No way.” He says firmly, “your songs are from the heart, they reach deep parts inside us, even though their love songs it's just nice to listen to your voice.”

Silence settles between you two, a comfortable silence. You hadn’t even noticed how wide you were grinning, in just 5 minutes Deku had made you forget all about your troubles, and made you laugh.

“Hey, you really do live up to the legend.” You fold your hands into your lap, “saving people with a smile, making them forget all their worries.”

“I could say you do the same thing too,” he doesn’t look over at you, eyes stay on the road. “Your songs helped me through alot.”

The lights passing by on the street reflect in his eyes, “it’s a shame all this happened to a good person like you, I’m really sorry you have to go through this.”

“It’s just like what everyone online is saying.” You sigh, taking another swig of your drink, “ I’m finally catching up to reality.”

Silence falls between you two again and you start to recognize some of the buildings around you. “Are you hungry?” Deku asks, “I know a great burger spot around here.”

“Mo’s?” You ask.

“Yeah…”

Words, they always win, but I know I’ll lose

A paper bag sits in between you and Deku. You sat outside of the car, sitting on his trunk while he leaned on the car. You take a bite of the burger, savoring the juicy flavors that burst in your mouth. The familiar taste brings you comfort, and you feel a sense of gratitude for the small joys in life. Deku watches you eat, a warm smile on his face.

"Good, huh?" he asks, and you nod, your mouth too full to respond. You both munch on your burgers in contented silence, enjoying the simple pleasure of good food and good company.

As you finish your meal, you lean back against the car, staring up at the night sky. The stars twinkle above, and a sense of calm washes over you. It's moments like these that remind you of the beauty and resilience of life.

Deku breaks the silence, his voice gentle. "You know, even though it feels like your world is crashing down right now, remember that you have people who care about you. Your fans, your friends, and even someone like me, who just met you tonight."

You turn your head to look at him, his earnest expression making your heart ache. "Thank you, Deku," you say softly. "I appreciate your kindness and support. It means a lot to me."

He blushes slightly, scratching the back of his head. "I'm just doing what I can. Sometimes, all we need is someone to lean on, even if it's just for a little while." 

“So, what do you think is gonna happen with the investigation?”

“It’s gonna be really suffocating, unfortunately,” Deku sighs. “The chief thinks the stalker might have something to do with Betheny’s murder.” 

You feel a shiver run down your spine at the mention of Betheny. You knew being in the spotlight came with risks, but you never knew someone would be killed over you.

Deku's expression mirrors your sadness and concern. He shares a warm smile once you finally meet his eye. “You’re not alone Y/n.”

"I'm scared, Deku," you admit, your voice barely above a whisper. "Scared for my life, scared for the people around me. I never wanted any of this. I just wanted to share my music with the world." You mutter under your breath, “my love for Josh..”

“Hey.” Deku reaches out, placing a reassuring hand on yours. "I understand.” His touch brings you a sliver of comfort. “How about this, let’s hang out tomorrow, get your mind off of things?”

You look at Deku, appreciating his offer. The idea of taking a break from the chaos sounds appealing, a chance to find some solace and regain a sense of normalcy, even if just for a little while.

A small smile tugs at the corners of your lips. "That sounds nice, Deku. I'd like that." You pause for a moment, contemplating the options. "What do you have in mind?"

He ponders for a moment, his brows furrowing as he thinks. "Well, how about we go to the park? It's a peaceful place, and we can take a walk, enjoy nature. Sometimes being surrounded by trees and fresh air can help clear the mind."

The thought of being in nature sounds appealing. It could be a temporary escape, a chance to focus on something other than the chaos that has consumed your life. "That sounds perfect," you reply.

Deku's smile widens, relieved that his suggestion resonated with you. "Great! We'll meet there tomorrow morning then. Take your time and rest tonight. We'll leave all the worries behind for a while."

“Sounds great.”

And I'd sing a song that'd be just ours

It had been a while since you actually went outside. It took you almost 30 minutes to decide on an outfit, and you were still unsure if you picked the right one. Choosing an outfit for your outing with Deku feels oddly important to you, as if it holds some significance beyond just a simple park visit.

But you were going to be late if you continued to switch outfits, so though you weren’t exactly satisfied you settled on some jeans and a blouse. It feels light and airy, perfect for a day at the park.

With a deep breath, you grab your bag and head out the door, ready to meet with Deku. It's a new day, a chance for a fresh start, and you're determined to make the most of it. The park wasn’t very far from your house, so you walked there, enjoying the sound of cars passing by.

You enter the park, feeling a sense of tranquility wash over you as you take in the lively atmosphere. The vibrant green of the grass, the colorful flowers in bloom, and the sound of laughter and conversations create an inviting ambiance.

As you stroll along the path, you observe the various scenes unfolding around you. Children running and playing, their infectious giggles filling the air. Couples sitting on benches, sharing tender moments and stealing affectionate glances. Dogs chasing after balls, their tails wagging with pure joy. The park seems to be a haven of happiness and connection, momentarily whisking away the weight of your worries.

Spotting a familiar figure in the distance, you make your way towards Deku. He's standing near a pond, watching as ducks glide across the water's surface. Like you, he was wearing sunglasses, but his green hair really gave off his identity. He turns around and catches sight of you, a bright smile spreading across his face.

"There you are!" Deku exclaims, his voice filled with delight. "You look amazing!"

You blush at his compliment, feeling a surge of warmth in your chest. "Thank you," you reply, returning the smile. "You don't look too bad yourself."

He chuckles and extends his arm towards the park. "Shall we walk and enjoy the beauty of this place together?"

“We shall.”

The gentle breeze rustles the leaves, and the sun casts a warm glow over everything, creating a serene atmosphere. As you walk, you engage in lighthearted conversation. Deku's presence brings a sense of comfort and ease, allowing you to momentarily forget the weight of your worries. He listens attentively to your words, his genuine interest shining through his expressive eyes. It felt nice to actually have someone pay attention to what you were saying. 

“Y’know, my dream was never to become a singer,” you say as your and Deku’s laughter dies down from his previous joke. “I actually wanted to be a pro-hero.”

“What? Really?” Deku says, his eyes widening a little. “Well why didn’t you?”

As the sun begins its descent, casting a golden hue over the park, you find yourselves leaning on the fence over by the docks, the reflection of the sun shining over the river.

“My voice,” you say softly. “My parents had always said I was born to sing, and my quirk wasn’t really pro-hero worthy.” 

Deku's brows furrow slightly, “well, what’s your quirk?”

You look over to him. Though your mouth is closed, your voice could still be heard next to him. “Oh you know, nothing really.”

He blinks a few times, trying to comprehend what happened. “Wait…are you talking with your mouth closed?”

“Yeah, that's my quirk.”

“Mhmm”

“Bingo!”

All the voices speak at the same time, but your mouth remains shut. Deku's eyes widen in astonishment, his gaze shifting between you and the voices that seem to emanate from nowhere. He takes a moment to process what he just witnessed before regaining his composure.

"That's incredible," he says, his voice filled with genuine fascination. "A quirk that allows you to speak without opening your mouth. That's definitely unique and could be quite useful in its own way."

You chuckle softly, appreciating his reaction. "Yeah, it has its advantages. I can communicate without making any sound, and it lets me sing my own backup vocals. But it's not exactly the type of quirk that would be useful in physical confrontations or saving people like a pro-hero would."

Deku nods, understanding dawning in his eyes. "I see. But you've found your own way to touch people's lives and bring them joy through your music. And that's something to be proud of."

You stare at him for a bit, his words echoing through your mind before you turn your attention back to the glistening river. “Yeah…I guess you're right.” His words resonate with you, a gentle reminder of the impact you've had on others through your songs. But you weren’t going to sing again, ever since you lost Josh, your motivation to sing seemed to disappear with him.

Deku senses the shift in your mood and places a comforting hand on your shoulder. “Wanna grab a drink?”

A small smile tugs at the corner of your lips as you turn to face him. "Sure, a drink sounds nice. Lead the way."

But I sang 'em all to another heart

As you step into the bar, the lively atmosphere washes over you. The low lighting casts a warm glow, and the sound of music fills the air. People are engaged in conversations, laughter, and the occasional clinking of glasses. The energy of the place is infectious, and you can't help but feel a sense of excitement.

Deku finds a cozy corner booth, away from the crowd but still close enough to soak in the ambiance. He motions for you to take a seat, and you settle in, taking in the sights and sounds around you. The bar has a rustic charm, with wooden accents and dimly lit vintage bulbs hanging from the ceiling.

“Do you know what you want to drink?” Deku asks.

You glance at the menu, scanning the variety of beverages available. From signature cocktails to classic spirits, there's something for everyone's taste. But you decide on something a little more simple. “Vodka lime.”

He nods before sliding out the booth. You watch as Deku makes his way to the bar, his green hair standing out in the dim lighting. He skillfully navigates through the crowd, eventually reaching the counter where the bartender awaits.

As you wait for Deku to return with the drinks, you take a deep breath, allowing yourself to relax. The soft chatter and laughter of the bar patrons create a comforting background ambiance.

After a short while, Deku returns with two glasses in hand, a smile lighting up his face. He carefully places the drinks on the table, sliding back into the booth. You notice the small lime slice perched on the rim of your glass, a vibrant touch of color against the clear liquid.

"Here you go," he says, his voice filled with warmth. "A vodka lime, just as you requested."

You raise your glass, a gesture of gratitude, and take a sip, relishing the refreshing combination of flavors. The tangy lime cuts through the smoothness of the vodka, creating a drink that's both invigorating and comforting.

Deku raises his own glass, a dark liquor inside, and clinks it against yours. "Cheers," he says, his eyes sparkling with genuine camaraderie.

"Cheers," you reply, a smile playing on your lips.

As the night progresses, you engage in conversations that range from light-hearted banter to deeper reflections. The drinks flow, but it's the genuine connection and shared experiences that truly leave an impact. 

But the bar seems to quiet down as a woman walks onto the wooden stage at the bar. “Alright folks, for tonight's singing battle for $500 we have long time champion Sanda Hitoshi, and… Y/n Yoshito!”

You arch a brow at the call of your first name, but don’t think much of it since she hadn’t called you last. But Deku nudges you with his foot. “That you,” he whispers.

“What?” You say. “But I didn't sign up-”

“I did.” He says, “now go up there and sing.”

You watch a man come up onto the stage, everyone else in the bar looking around for the second contestant. Your initial instinct is to resist, to find an excuse to back out, but the determined look in Deku's eyes and the trust he has placed in you make it difficult to refuse.

Reluctantly, you take a deep breath, finishing the rest of your drink. You stand up from the booth, your heart pounding in your chest, and make your way towards the stage. As you step onto the wooden platform, the spotlight finds you, casting a warm glow upon your figure. 

The murmurs in the bar gradually subside, all eyes now fixed upon you and Sanda Hitoshi, the reigning champion of the singing battle. The crowd's anticipation hangs in the air, and you can't help but feel a mixture of nerves and determination. It had been a long time since you last did this.

The woman on stage, the host of the singing battle, looks at you expectantly. "Well, well, it seems we have a brand new contestant. Y/n Yoshito, are you ready to give it your all?"

You take a deep breath, your voice steady despite the butterflies in your stomach. "Yes, I am," you reply, your voice carrying a newfound confidence.

Sanda smirks at you, his confidence radiating from his lips. He leaned in close to you, “hope you're ready to lose.”

The music begins, a familiar melody filling the bar, and like karaoke the lyrics appear on the screen in front of you. Sanda begins first, his voice fills the bar with a powerful resonance. The crowd reacts, cheering and clapping along to his performance. You watch him closely, his confidence evident in every move he makes.

With the pressure and the competitive atmosphere, you begin to feel small. The spotlight turns onto you when it's your turn to sing, the lyrics appearing on the screen in front of you. You watch the words pass by, opening your mouth to sing, but nothing comes out.

The crowd began to mummer, many of their comments sounded very negative. You want to apologize and walk off the stage, embarrassed that you even came up here. But you meet Deku’s eyes, he had moved from the booth in the corner to one the table by the stage.

He smiles at you, a small nod that says so much despite the small gesture. ‘You can do this’

Drawing strength from his support, you take a deep breath, willing yourself to push through the fear and find your voice. The lyrics on the screen blur momentarily as you close your eyes, shutting out the distractions and doubts that surround you.

In that moment of stillness, you find a sense of clarity. The music resonates within you, touching the deepest parts of your soul. With renewed determination, you open your eyes and let the melody guide you.

As the first words escape your lips, a surge of energy courses through you. The initial hesitation gives way to a growing confidence, and your voice begins to fill the bar. The crowd's murmurs transform into hushed anticipation, their attention now fully on you.

With each passing note, you pour your heart into the performance, allowing the lyrics to carry your emotions. Confidence begins to sweep within you, and you start walking back and forth on the stage and adding a little more movement to your performance. The doubts and insecurities gradually fade away, replaced by the sheer joy of expressing yourself through music. The stage becomes your sanctuary, a space where you can be vulnerable yet powerful.

The crowd's initial skepticism gradually gives way to awe and appreciation. They witness the transformation unfolding before their eyes, witnessing the raw emotions and undeniable talent that you possess. It comes to Sanda's turn, but you don’t let him. Singing over him and taking his part of the song.

The egotistical man doesn't seem to appreciate it, attempting to sing over you. As Sanda tries to tune you out, attempting to regain the spotlight, a fire ignites within you. You refuse to be silenced or overshadowed. With unwavering determination, your voice rises above his, resolute and filled with passion.

Your impromptu duet becomes a battle of voices, a clash of emotions and artistry. Each note you sing carries an intensity that captivates the crowd, their attention shifting from Sanda to you.

As the song reaches its climax, you and Sanda’s voices soar, you’re now staring into his eyes. You can tell he’s trying to hit a higher note than you. With the power of your quirk, you continue to hold the note, and grin at the boy.

“You think you're better than me but you're not--!” You hold out the note,  hitting high notes with a confidence that surprises even yourself. The harmonies intertwine, creating a symphony of voices that reverberates through the bar, leaving everyone in awe.

And as the final note hangs in the air, a stunned silence fills the room. The audience, once divided, erupts into thunderous applause, their cheers and claps resonating with genuine admiration. It's clear that your performance has touched their hearts, transcending the boundaries of a simple singing battle.

Sanda stands there, momentarily speechless, his ego shattered. The crowd continues to cheer, some people even standing up, acknowledging the power of your voice and the strength you displayed in the face of adversity. You step off the stage, feeling a mix of exhilaration and relief coursing through your veins.

You run over to Deku, who’s still clapping a big grin on his face. You jump into his arms, squeezing him with all the passion you had left over from singing on stage. 

“Wait a minute!” A random voice calls out from the bar, “that’s Y/n L/n!”

“Isn’t that Deku?”

Startled by the sudden recognition, you quickly break away from Deku's embrace and exchange a brief glance with him. Without hesitation, you grab Deku's hand and make a swift exit from the bar, blending into the bustling city streets.

You drag him away down the street, the two of you laughing. “I think that was the most fun I’ve had in a long time,” you sigh.

Deku laughs along with you, the sound of joy and relief mingling in the air. "I'm glad you enjoyed it," he replies, a genuine smile gracing his face. "You were incredible up there, Y/n. It was like watching a star shine."

As you continue walking through the vibrant city streets, the excitement of the performance still coursing through your veins. You find a bench along the street and sit down, catching your breath and allowing the adrenaline to subside. Deku joins you, his presence a comforting anchor in the midst of the bustling city.

"I've never been able to go to any of your concerts, I usually just enjoy your music online, but-" Deku eyes sparkling with admiration. "It's like a whole different side of you came alive on that stage."

You lean back on the bench, a contented smile playing on your lips. "Maybe it's because you were there, cheering me on," you muse.

Deku reaches out and takes your hand, his touch gentle and reassuring. “I’m glad I was able to make a difference.”

You can’t tell if it was the alcoholic in your stomach, or just the warmth Deku’s presence brought to you. As your cheeks flush with a gentle blush, you meet his gaze, your eyes reflecting the many emotions swirling within you.

In that moment, the world around you seems to fade into the background, leaving only the two of you in this intimate space. The city's hustle and bustle become distant whispers as you focus on the presence of Deku, his hand holding yours, and the unspoken connection that binds you together.

A soft breeze rustles through the air, carrying with it a hint of anticipation and possibility. The night sky above twinkles with stars, mirroring the spark in Deku's eyes. It's as if the universe itself is silently encouraging you to take a leap of faith, to embrace the budding feelings that have begun to blossom between you.

“Deku..” you say, your voice barely above a whisper.

“Please,” he whispers back. “Call me Izuku.”

As the words hang in the air, the silence between you becomes overloaded with possibility. He’s leaning in closer. The anticipation builds between you, the space between your lips diminishing with each passing moment. Time seems to stand still as the gap between you closes, and your heart pounds in your chest.

Finally, your lips meet in a tender and electrifying kiss. The touch of his lips against yours ignites a fire within, a warmth that spreads throughout your being. It's a moment filled with vulnerability, trust, and the sweet realization that something beautiful is unfolding between you.

As you break apart, a soft smile graces both of your faces, and the world comes back into focus.

“Y/n?”

The moment is cut short though, by the call of your name. Your eyes widen, “Josh?”

“Hey…bunny.” He says.

Shock washes over you as you hear Josh's voice, and your heart skips a beat. It's as if time has frozen, and you find yourself caught in a mixture of conflicting emotions.  Memories of the past colliding with the present.

You release Izuku’s hand, standing up from the bench. "Josh... What are you doing here?" you manage to ask.

Josh's gaze shifts between you and Izuku, before he lifts his phone to show the posts of you at the bar. "I... I heard your voice. I followed it. I didn't expect to find you here like this."

“I’ll um, give you two some space.” Izuku clears his throat, sensing the tension. Izuku gracefully steps back, giving you and Josh the space you need to address the unexpected reunion. He moves a few steps away, but you can still feel his supportive presence lingering in the background.

“What do you want?” You turn your attention back to Josh. "I didn't expect to see you here either."

He lowers his phone, his gaze softening as he takes in your presence. "I know it's been a long time, Y/n. I've missed you."

You hesitate for a moment, your mind racing with thoughts and conflicting feelings. You furrowed your brows, “you cheated on me.” 

"Listen, Y/n," Josh continues, taking a step closer. "I made a lot of mistakes in the past, and I've spent a long time regretting them.” You're frozen still as he comes closer, the serenity in his voice almost sounding real. He reaches out a hand as if to touch you, but quickly withdraws it. "I know I messed up, Y/n. I can't change the past, but I want us to try again. I love you."

His words were everything you wanted to hear. And you glance over at Izuku, who’s trying to pretend he isn’t watching. While your connection with Izuku has been growing, the history and familiarity with Josh still hold weight.

You take a deep breath. “No.”

Josh's expression shifts into shock. “What?” It’s obvious he didn’t expect that. “But bunny, I've apologized.” The gentleness in his earlier voice is long gone now.

“And I don’t forgive you,” you say. “You cheated on me Josh, exploited me, laughed in my face.”

"You're being unfair, Y/n!" he exclaims, his voice laced with frustration.

You hated this. You hated how fast your heart was beating. You hated the little voice in your head begging you to take Josh back, to return to your little state of love. You hated the part of you that actually believed Josh’s words.

He continues, "People make mistakes, and I've changed. I love you, and I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make things right."

“The damage has already been done Josh,” your voice is steady despite the emotions swirling within you. “We’re done.”

Josh's face contorts and he takes a step back. "Fine," he says through gritted teeth. "But don't think this is the end. I’m all you’ve ever known, nobody else in the world will love you as much as I did."

With that said, he walks off, leaving you to stand there. Izuku approaches, his presence a pillar of strength, and he wraps an arm around you. “You okay?” He asks.

You turn around and shove your face into his chest throwing punches into him. “It’s not fair Izuku!”

Izuku holds you tightly, each punch like a little tap on his torso. "I know, Y/n," he murmurs.

Tears spill out your eyes, and you want to scream out of frustration. "It's okay to let it out," he whispers, his voice filled with compassion. A soft hand rubbing your back, you allow yourself to surrender to the overwhelming wave of emotions, the frustration, and the pain. 

The tears flow freely, carrying with them the weight of disappointment and heartache. Izuku remains by your side, offering his silent support as you let your emotions be heard. Eventually, your sobs turned into small whimpers, your arms had grown tired now and you stood limp in Izuku’s arms.

“I like you Izuku,” you whisper. “I really do.” You can feel the vibrations of his humming through his chest, and you peel your face off of him to meet his eye. “But I don’t think I’m gonna be able to love you in the way you deserve.”

Izuku's gaze meets yours, filled with understanding and empathy. He takes a moment to absorb your words, his expression softening. You pull away from him, wiping your own tears. “I’m sorry Izuku. But Josh is right…”

Before he could speak, you turned your back and began to walk away. Izuku could only watch, unsure of what to say himself. 

 And I wanna cry, I wanna learn to love

As you shifted in bed, the sound of bottles clinking could be heard. Once again you drowned yourself in liquor to ease off the pain spiking up in your heart. The sun shining in through the curtains was enough to wake you.

You groaned, head beginning to ache as soon as you sat up. The room seemed to spin for a moment, and you steadied yourself against the nearby dresser. You pulled open one of the drawers, hoping to find some new clothes that didn’t reek of sweat and alcohol.

Rummaging through the drawer, you managed to find a fresh set of clothes tucked away in the back. You discarded your worn and disheveled attire and quickly changed into clean garments.

As you throw your old clothes to the laundry backset in the corner of the room, you stop at the sight of one of your old notebooks. It’s opened with a pen sitting on top of it, along with an almost empty bottle of liquor. 

You must’ve been writing while drunk.

Curiosity piqued, you picked up the notebook, flipping through its pages. The words scribbled across the paper were a mix of blurry lines, barely legible in your intoxicated state. It was evident that you had attempted to write while under the influence, but the resulting pages held little coherent meaning. Some words were readable, lyrics that connected in a way you couldn’t really understand at the moment. 

A little disappointed, you close the notebook and toss it onto your unmade bed. With a sigh, you look around the room, though your head was still aching, you were filled with boredom.

You catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror and take a moment to assess your appearance. Your reflection revealed signs of fatigue and the lingering traces of tears. You looked like shit.

Another sigh emits from your lips, and you crash back onto your bed, feeling under your pillow for your phone. As usual it’s bombarded with tweets, and likes.

Celebrity News @celebnews

{3 Image Attached} Celebrity singer Y/n L/n sighted singing at the local karaoke bar in Musutafu. Seems out little romance singer might have found a new muse.

AnimeBrigade @macetotheface

replying to @celebnews

Is that Deku? Holy shi-

Dont Mori, Be Happy @fatdeadhard

replying to @celebnews

Look at how Deku’s holding her! Move over Y/n! It’s my turn

Pepsi Chan @aloneboi

replying to @fatdeadhard

Nah, Deku move over. Lemme hold sweet Y/n

“They work fast,” you mutter under your breath, closing Twitter after scrolling through the many comments from your recent appearance yesterday.

Lying on your bed, you allowed yourself a moment of respite, staring at the ceiling as thoughts swirled in your mind. You glance over at your window, seeing how it’s a perfectly sunny day, you should probably get some fresh air.

As you open the window, a gentle breeze wafts into the room, carrying with it the sweet scent of blooming flowers. The warm rays of sunlight bathe your face, the heat irritating your eyes a little, but either way it instantly uplifts your spirits.

You decide to go for a walk, to let your thoughts wander and find peace amidst the serene surroundings. As you step out onto the streets, the hustle and bustle of the city greets you. Mainly just people riding their bikes, or going out on a morning jog. Mainly people going about their daily lives.

You walk aimlessly, allowing your footsteps to guide you through the winding paths. Eventually finding yourself by the river you had visited with Deku yesterday. You take a seat by a nearby bench, and stare out at the rippling water.

“For someone so young, it seems like you’ve got a lot of problems on your plate.”

You turn to the voice of an old woman, she’s sitting on the second bench near the one you were sitting at. She’s knitting, a bag full of yarn sitting by her feet. 

“Just alot going on in my life right now,” you turn back to the river. “ I just don’t know what to do.”

“Life is filled with challenges,” the old woman nods, her eyes filled with wisdom. “I believe that it's through facing those challenges that we grow and find our strength."

“I just don’t know if I have the strength to face these challenges,” you mutter.

The old woman's eyes soften as she continues knitting, her fingers working with practiced ease. She looks at you with a compassionate gaze and says, "strength is not always about having all the answers or being fearless. It's about acknowledging your vulnerabilities and persevering despite them. It's about taking one step at a time, even when the path seems uncertain."

She pauses for a moment, as if contemplating her next words. “Tell me dear, where is it in life, that you find yourself the most confident?”

You lean back into the bench, taking a moment to think about her question. “I guess, when I’m on stage, singing.”

“Ah so you are a singer,” the old woman chuckles. “I find that most singers see music as a refuge. Their way of expressing themselves and connecting with others.”

You stay quiet as a breeze passes by, your hair tickling your face slightly. The old woman's eyes sparkle with understanding as she observes your contemplative state. "Music has a way of touching our souls," she continues, her voice carrying a hint of nostalgia. "It allows us to express emotions that may be difficult to put into words.”

As the old woman resumes her knitting, you take a deep breath and let the warmth of her presence envelop you. For your whole life, you’d written songs about how happy and in love you were, but not once had you ever considered writing about your sadness. 

You wanted to learn to love Deku, to be able to appreciate him for showing you kindness and understanding during the lowest point of your life. But you didn’t know how. You had been burnt out of songs about love, you had nothing to sing to him. But, your sadness.

The old woman's knitting needles click softly in the background, almost as if they're providing a rhythmic backdrop to your thoughts.

You turn to her, a warm smile on your face and the old woman meets your gaze with a kind and knowing smile, her knitting needles pausing for a moment. There's a sense of compassion and understanding in her eyes, as if she recognizes the weight of your emotions and the complexity of your situation.

“Thanks.”

She nods, wordless acknowledging your gratitude. You stand up from the bench, with a newly found determination, you sprint, heading straight back to your home.

As you run back to your home, a surge of energy courses through your veins. The weight of uncertainty and doubt begins to lift, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration. The rhythmic clicking of the old woman's knitting needles fades into the distance as you focus on the path ahead.

Arriving at your home, you feel a sense of urgency and creativity burning within you. You enter your room and immediately head to your bedroom, snatching your notebook from off the bed. You slide over to your desk, flipping through the pages and finding a blank page.

With each stroke of the pen, the words pour out onto the page. The lyrics flow effortlessly, capturing the essence of your sadness, your doubts, and your longing. The melodies intertwine with the words, weaving a tapestry of vulnerability and strength.

You begin to sing the newly crafted verses, testing out each lyric with different tones of rhythm. Everything begins to flow as you begin to use the beat of the old lady’s rhythmic clicking. With each verse, you allow yourself to fully embrace the rawness of your emotions. You sing of your struggles, your doubts, and your yearning for a deeper connection.

The song takes shape, evolving with each line and chord progression. Despite your habit to make the song more high beat, and happy, you're determined to explore a different side of your emotions.

And I wanna cry, I wanna learn to love

You worked until nightfall, obsessed with your new project. It had been a whole since you felt this determined, and the song is completed by the end of the day. You sat at your desk proud, staring at the page in the notebook which was covered with eraser marks, smudges, and even some dampness from your tears.

There's a sense of pride and accomplishment in seeing the culmination of your hard work and creative expression on the page. But your moment is interrupted by your phone. It was your manager, Dave. Perfect timing.

“Hey Dave!” You answer.

“Y/n, what’s this I’m seeing all over the internet?” He doesn’t even greet you, “why are you frolicking with that Pro-Hero?”

You lean back in your office chair, “you mean the bar thing? We were just hanging out.”

“No,” he says more sternly. “I mean the pictures of you making out with him.”

The what. You put the one on speaker before switching over to the app, finding it easily as the post was number one on trending.

User @usernamenotfound

{5 Images Attached} I see you…

Trash Mammal @hairylegs

replying to @usernamenotfound

Okay. I think I’m done with the internet for a while now,

iitsTre_ @suliom

replying to @usernamenotfound

Okay, so this happened. And I’m all for it. #Y/n&Deku

Hanna the Dinosaur @roar

replying to @suliom

Nah, I’m loyal to the og. #Y/n&Josh

JayyKT @yaboyJT

replying to @roar

Yeah cause supporting a toxic relationship is perfectly fine.

“D-dave I,” You continue to scroll through the comments. “I-I don’t know how this happened.”

“Cause you’re careless and irresponsible.” Dave’s voice is firm, a type of anger he rarely ever used with you. “But we can clear everything up since you and Josh are back together.”

“Dave…Josh and I aren’t getting back together,” you stammer. “I…I think I might have feelings for Deku. I even wrote a song, I’m we can use this-”

“You what?” His voice is chilling. “Do you know how much I- do you know what I did to have Josh want to get back with you?  A-and you can’t just start making new songs, especially about Deku! Josh is your career, you write songs about Josh, and only Josh!”

As he stammers, you furrow your brows at the phone. Did he just say he paid Josh to say he wanted to get back with you?

"Dave... Did you... Did you pay Josh to pretend he wanted to get back with me?" your voice trembles of disbelief and hurt.

There's a moment of silence on the other end of the line before Dave finally speaks. “I did what was best for your career Y/n, cause it seems like only one of us seems to actually care.”

Anger rises within you as you try to comprehend the extent of his manipulation. "You don't get to decide who I should be with or what songs I should write, Dave."

"Y/n, I've invested a lot in your career. I've worked hard to make you successful, and sometimes tough decisions have to be made for the sake of that success.”

Your anger intensifies, fueled by a sense of betrayal. "You had no right to manipulate my personal life Dave. I trusted you, and you took advantage of that trust. This is not how a manager should treat their artist." There's a brief pause before you continue, “I’m going to have to call you back, I need time to think, and maybe consider getting a new manager.”

You end the call, and drop your phone onto your desk. “What the fuck,” you mutter, repeating the words in your mind over and over. You had known Dave to be very pushy, but you didn’t mind it, you owed it to him for helping you jumpstart your career.

But as the weight of the situation settles on your shoulders, and you realize that it's time for a change, you can no longer continue with a manager who doesn't respect your boundaries and manipulates your personal life for the sake of your career.

The phone vibrates on the desk, and you quickly pick it up and answer. “Dave fuck of-”

“Y/n?”

“Izuku?”

"Yes, it's me," Izuku's voice comes through the phone, filled with concern. "I saw what happened on the internet, and I wanted to make sure you're okay. Are you alright?"

Your anger and frustration begin to dissipate, replaced by a mixture of surprise and relief. "Izuku, I... I don't know what to say. It's been a crazy day, and I just found out some things about my manager that I never expected."

"I'm sorry you had to go through that," Izuku responds empathetically. “But, I actually called for another reason.”

Curiosity piques within you as Izuku's words hang in the air. "Another reason? What is it, Izuku?"

There's a brief pause on the other end of the line, and then Izuku speaks with a hint of nervousness in his voice. “Y/n, I’ve been thinking about what you said…and I, I don’t care-”

Your heart stills at the sound of glass shattering, and Izuku quiets down as well. You quickly stand up from the desk, looking towards your door. That sound definitely came from your house, and since you were home alone, that meant that someone broke in.

“Y/n? What was that?”

The conversation with Izuku is immediately forgotten as your focus shifts to the potential danger in your own home. Without wasting another moment, you hurriedly whisper into the phone, "Izuku, I think someone just broke into my house."

You quickly step over to your bedroom door, cringing at the sound of your barefoot sticking to the hardwood floor. You slowly click your bedroom door lock, before backing away from the entrance. 

Izuku was still talking on the phone, but with your concentration on being silent, you can’t seem to focus on what he’s saying. “I’m coming Y/n!”

You take deep breaths as your back hits the wall in your room, your eyes landing on the many glass bottles sitting on your bedside table. Without a moment's hesitation, you grab one of the bottles, feeling its cool surface in your hand.

The sound of footsteps approaching your bedroom door grows louder, and your heart pounds in your chest. Adrenaline surges through your veins as you grip the bottle tightly. The door knob jiggles, the intruder, struggling against the door lock.

They pound at the door, aggressive knocks that scare you more and more. Taking a deep breath to steady your nerves, you try to remain as quiet as possible, hoping that the intruder will give up and leave. But the pounding continues, growing more forceful with each strike. It becomes clear that they are determined to break through the door.

“Open this door now!”

You recognize that voice. Dave? As you strain to listen through the door, your heart sinks as you confirm that the voice belongs to Dave. The realization fills you with fear and confusion. Why would your manager be breaking into your house?

He’s able to kick a hole in the bottle part of your door, hand reaching in for the door knob to let himself in. Gripping the glass bottle tightly, you make a split-second decision, throwing the bottle at his hand.

The man lets out a loud groan once the glass shatters upon impact with his hand. “You fucking bitch, I’m gonna kill you!”

You reach for your phone, forgetting you had Izuku on the line. "Izuku, it's Dave. He's breaking into my house. I don't know what to do."

He doesn’t respond, the only sound from his air is just fast paced movement and heavy breathing. 

“Do you know how much I’ve done for you Y/n?” Dave continued to kick around the hole he made, opening it up more. “What I've done? You don’t get to cast me aside, no, no, you don’t.”

“Dave, your fucking insane!” You scream back, gripping another bottle in readiness to defend yourself again. “You’ve actually lost it this time!”

His foot falls through the hole, making it big enough for a person to crawl through. “I hired that stalker you know? I knew that dumbass Josh would get caught with that stupid girl. He was so careless, so reckless, he put everything at stake.” Dave’s ab;e to unlock the door, pushing it so hard it practically comes off the hinges.

“That stalker was going to scare you, scare you so badly you’d listen to everything I told you to do.” His boot crunch against the fallen glass on the ground. “I killed Bethany for you Y/n, as your manager, I’d do anything for you.”

The reflection of the knife in his hand increases your heart rate. You begin to throw bottles at him, but with each throw your precision is affected by the fear instilled in your mind. “After everything I’ve done. You’d just fire me like that?” He laughs, a chuckle so chilling. “I don’t think so.”

"Dave, please," you plead, your voice filled with desperation and a hint of hope. "You don't have to do this. We can find another way. Just put the knife down and let's talk. We can figure this out."

But Dave's expression twists into a malicious grin, his eyes filled with madness. He lunges at you with alarming speed, the knife glinting in the dim light. Panic floods your senses as you desperately search for an escape route.

In a moment of instinct, you make a split-second decision. You grab a nearby chair and swing it at Dave, hoping to create enough distance between you. The impact catches him off guard, momentarily stunning him and giving you a chance to make a run for it.

But you slip on one of the glass shards on the ground and fall onto it, groaning as it stabs into your arms. With adrenaline surging through your veins, you’re able to quickly recover, and attempt to stand up, but a hand grips your ankle. 

“No! Stop!” You scream, feeling him pulling you towards him. “Stop it. Please!”

Another crash emits, as glass shards fly into the room along with a body. A loud thump echoes through the floorboards as Deku lands in your apartment, he moves quickly, appending your attacker.

Red and blue flashing lights reflect in the room, and sit on the floor, your breaths come in ragged gasps as you try to process what just happened.

But all my tears have been used up

You were sitting on the edge of an ambulance, wrapped in one of the blankets provided by the EMTs. There were many police cars surrounding your apartment, as well as new vans trying to get as much footage as they could from afar.

You watched as Dave was forced into the back of a police car, he was shouting many obscenities, promising that he would be coming back. You pulled the blanket tighter around yourself, seeking a small measure of comfort and protection. 

Deku was speaking with some of the officers, having to explain the situation since he was the first pro-hero on sight. 

“Miss L/n?”

You look over to the side, finding a well dressed lady. She holds out a card to you, “I know this might not be the best time,  but I’m Miyahara Mika, after everything that’s happened you’re going to be looking for a new manager. I’d like to be one of your first options.”

Taking the card from her, you read her name. Before you could say anything, Deku walks over, “I’m sorry, no questions right now.” He leads the girl away, sending her back behind the police tape with the other bystanders.

You appreciate Izuku's attentiveness to give you space, but also made a mental note to contact Mika once the immediate aftermath had settled. 

“Are you okay?” He asks.

You take a moment to collect yourself before responding to Deku's question. His concern is evident in his eyes, and you appreciate his presence in this chaotic moment. "A little shaken, but physically unharmed," you reply. " I'm grateful that you were here and intervened when you did. Thank you, Izuku."

You pause, taking in a deep breath to steady yourself. "But what about you?" you ask, genuinely concerned. "Did you get hurt? Are you okay?"

He chuckles, “I’m fine, and I’m just glad you're okay.”

“Miss L/n, there’s someone who wants to see you, um his name is Josh Solace.” An officer comes up to the side of the ambulance, pointing over to the side where you can see Josh being held back by some officers.

With a sigh, you watch as he calls out to you.  With a nod, you signal to the officer to let Josh through.

As Josh approaches, he quickly embraces you. “Y/n are you okay? I came as soon as I heard, do you need a place to say? You can stay with me.”

You push him away, standing up and looking him straight in the eye. Without words, your hands swing across his face, slapping him cleanly. The slap resonates through the air, and a shocked silence follows. Josh's hand instinctively moves to his cheek, his eyes wide with surprise. 

Your lips pressed together,and you looked at Josh with a firm eye. “Josh…I’be done nothing but love you since we were kids. You were the center of my world. I thought I was gonna marry you one day. I can't believe you would let this happen.”

Josh's expression turns from shock to remorse, his voice filled with desperation. "Y/n, I swear, I had no idea. Dave... he threatened me, manipulated me.”

You put your hand up to stop him from talking. “Cut the bullshit Josh,  Dave didn’t manipulate you into cheating on me. You can lie all you want, but one thing’s for certain. You don’t love me, you haven’t for a long time.”

The weight of your words hangs in the air, and a deep silence settles between you and Josh. 

“So it’s over?” He asks, “just like that? All these years down the drain?”

While a part of you wants to believe Josh's words and find a way to forgive him, another part knows that the trust between you has been shattered. 

“Exactly.”

On another love, another love

It had been two weeks since the incident. For the first week, you stayed with your mom taking a break from social media and anything too exciting. 

During your week with your mom, you found solace in her comforting presence. She provided a safe and nurturing environment where you could heal and process the events that unfolded. Together, you shared meals, talked, and spent quality time reconnecting.

As the second week approached, you began to feel better. You knew it was time to face the world again, albeit in a different way. With the support of your mom and close friends you were able to reconnect with, you gradually reconnected with social media, updating your followers with a heartfelt message expressing gratitude for their support and explaining your need for some time off.

You also reached out to Mika, the manager who had approached you on that fateful day. Her professionalism and genuine interest in representing you had left a positive impression. After careful consideration and discussions with your support network, you decided to meet with her and explore the possibility of working together.

The meeting with Mika went well. She understood your need for boundaries and respect for your personal life. She shared her vision for your career, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and artistic growth.

You explained to her how you wanted to reintroduce yourself into the music industry, showing her your newly made song and how you wanted everything to work out. She loved the idea and got straight to work, promoting the hell out of the huge concert you were going to be having.

All my tears have been used up

Meanwhile you kept in contact with Izuku. He was really busy with hero work, but whenever he had the time you would grab lunch with him. Though it was hard to keep the concert you’d be having a secret, you made sure he didn't know the song that you’d be singing was about him. Nobody did.

“What’s this?” Izuku placed down his coffee mug to pick up the paper you slid over to him.

“I’m having a really big concert, and I want you to be there.” You said with a small smile, “it has a backstage pass and everything.”

Izuku's eyes widened with surprise as he read the paper you handed him. You continue, “you said you’ve never been to any of my concerts before..so…you should come to this one.”

"A concert? That's amazing!" he exclaimed, "I'd be honored to be there."

“I’d be honored to have you,” you chuckle. You couldn't help but feel a rush of joy hearing his response. Despite the challenges you had faced, having someone like Izuku by your side meant the world to you.

On another love, another love

You practiced with the band every day, making sure each of them knew their role. The band members had been supportive throughout the entire process, recognizing the significance of your comeback and the importance of the music you were about to share. They dedicated themselves to practicing and perfecting their parts, despite the different style and emotions involved in the song.

During rehearsals, you could feel the synergy building between you and the band. They were not only skilled musicians but also genuinely passionate about creating something meaningful.

As the concert day approached, the band's excitement grew alongside yours. You could see the determination in their eyes and the way they embraced the challenge of playing a different genre of music. They put in the extra effort to ensure that each instrument complemented your vocals, creating a harmonious blend that captured the emotions and essence of the song.

All my tears have been used up

The stadium was way bigger than you thought it would be. Mika had said that Hamada Nobu, the owner of the largest stadium in Japan, had offered the space for your musical comeback. Something about his daughter being a huge fan.

The sight of the vast stadium, with its countless empty seats stretching out before you, was both awe-inspiring and humbling. It was a stark reminder of the magnitude of the moment and the opportunity that lay ahead. Tomorrow, those seats would be filled with people eager to witness your song.

Standing in the center of the stage, you took a deep breath, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. The anticipation was palpable, and the enormity of the occasion weighed on your shoulders.

You glanced around the stage, taking in the elaborate setup and the equipment that had been meticulously arranged. The lighting rigs, the speakers, the instruments—all were in place, waiting to come alive with music. It was a testament to the hard work and dedication that had gone into preparing for this moment.

As you looked out at the empty seats, you imagined the faces that would soon occupy them. Each seat represented a person, a fan, someone who had been touched by your music in some way. Their anticipation, their support, and their love would fill this stadium tomorrow, fueling your performance and igniting the atmosphere.

You closed your eyes for a moment, envisioning the energy that would radiate from the crowd. The shared experience of music, the connection between artist and audience, the power of emotion and expression—it all converged in this space. Tomorrow, you would step onto this stage and give your all, pouring your heart and soul into the music.

Sudden doubt enters your mind. Love songs had been your brand since the beginning, what if they didn’t like the change?

On another love, another love

As the sound of the crowd reached your ears from the dressing room, instead of igniting your usual sense of determination, it filled you with fear. The magnitude of the moment hit you all at once, and doubts began to resurface.

What if they didn't like the new direction of your music? What if they were disappointed by the change? The fear of being rejected by the very people who had supported you throughout your career weighed heavily on your mind.

Taking a deep breath, you reminded yourself of the countless hours of hard work, dedication, and soul-searching that had led you to this point. You had poured your heart and soul into this new music, and it was an authentic expression of who you had become as an artist.

With each passing moment, the fear began to transform into excitement. You reminded yourself that the crowd gathered outside was there because they believed in you and your talent. 

You took one final look in the mirror, meeting your own eyes with a determined gaze. You had worked tirelessly for this moment, and now it was time to step onto that stage and give it your all. 

All my tears have been used up, up

Oh, oh, oh

Your body glistened with sweat as you continued to sing, pouring your heart and soul into each note. The stage lights bathed you in their warm glow, amplifying the intensity of the moment. The energy of the crowd fueled your performance, their cheers and applause becoming a harmonious symphony that echoed through the stadium.

As the music swelled, you took a small moment during an instrumental break to catch your breath. The adrenaline coursing through your veins kept you going, but you knew the importance of pacing yourself. Using your quirk to provide a brief respite as your voice soared through the air.

The band continues to play as you quiet down, taking the moment to search around the front row for your green haired friend. This song was for him, and you wanted to see him as you sang it. But he was so where to be seen.

Disappointment settles within you but you return to the center of the stage.

Oh, need a love, now, my heart is think of

As your quirk sings and the music surrounds you, you feel a surge of emotions welling up inside you. A small tear escapes the corner of your eye, tracing a path down your cheek. It's a single tear, but it carries the weight of countless emotions that have been bottled up inside you. It's a tear of joy, of pain, of resilience, and of triumph.

In that moment, as the tear falls, you surrender yourself to the power of the music and the vulnerability it brings.

“I wanna sing a song that'd be just ours.”

“But I sang ‘em all to another heart”

As you stared at the hidden camera in front of you, you were acutely aware of the enormous projector behind you, magnifying every emotion etched on your face. The camera was capturing every tear, every tremor, every raw expression that danced across your features as you sang your heart out.

You could imagine the faces of the audience members, their eyes fixed on the projection, immersed in the journey of your performance. The close-up shots captured the intensity of your emotions, allowing the viewers to witness the vulnerability and passion that flowed through your voice and body.

“And I wanna cry, I wanna fall in love (fall in love)”

As the powerful notes of your voice filled the air, you used your quirk to double over the sound, creating a mesmerizing echo that reverberated through the stadium. It was a deliberate choice, a way to emphasize the weight of your words. With each word that escaped your lips, the echo carried it forward, enveloping the audience in a haunting and immersive experience.

“But all my tears have been used up”

You look to the side, a tuft of green hair catching your eye. It was Izuku, he had actually come. With each word you sing, your gaze remains fixed on Izuku. It's as if your performance becomes a personal conversation between the two of you, a way to convey the depth of your emotions and express the unspoken feelings that have lingered between you.

On another love, another love

“All my tears have been used up”

The energy in the stadium becomes electric, as the audience, caught up in the intensity of your performance. They clap, cheer, and scream, their excitement and appreciation reverberating throughout the stadium. The energy is palpable, a tangible force that sweeps through the air, connecting you with each and every person in the audience.

On another love, another love

“All my tears have been used up”

You wave Izuku to come over, smiling as he refuses to at first, but with a small push from Mika he begins the walk over. The crowd seems to go crazy at the sight of him.

The audience's excitement reaches new heights as they realize that Izuku, their beloved pro-hero, is joining you on stage. Cheers and applause fill the stadium, their admiration for him evident in their fervent response.

On another love, another love

“All my tears have been used up”

You meet Izuku halfway, a beaming smile on your face as you take his hands. The crowd erupts with even more enthusiasm, their cheers growing louder. It's a beautiful and heartwarming sight, witnessing the genuine affection and connection between you and Izuku.

“Oh, oh”

As the music dies down, you leap forward and kiss Izuku. Time seems to stand still in that moment as the world around you fades away. The audience, caught up in the intensity of your performance, erupts into cheers and applause once again, their excitement reaching new heights.

As you break the kiss, you find yourself lost in Izuku's eyes, the world around you fading into the background. It's a powerful and unforgettable moment, one that will forever be etched in your memory and in the hearts of those who witnessed it.

©LuvloveUni

[awkward-walking-potato]

Little Dove Pt2

Loki X Reader: Rockstar AU

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4  

My promo was Rockstar AU and Dangerous woman by Ariana grande, I wrote this for @caplansteverogers writing challenge 

Summary: You’re at the height of your career and you were becoming one of the best pop singer in America but what happens when your path crosses with a certain Rockstar.

Warnings - 

Y/N - your name, Y/L/N- your last names

Please leave feedback - 🥔💕

There was a moment when he spoke those eight words that would change your life forever: "Well, aren’t you just the prettiest little dove?"

"Now, Loki, don’t start your games with her. She won’t be your next plaything." You jumped as two hands settled on your shoulders. "Come on, Y/N, you need to get ready for your performance."

As the Grandmaster led you away from the table, you couldn't help but glance back. Loki already had a girl on his lap, kissing his neck, but his eyes were locked on you.

"You see, this is why we have the no-talking rule. You’ll get caught up with people like that. I gave those three everything, Y/N. Showed them my best drummer, Bruce, and how do they repay me? They take him and start up some silly Ragnarok band."

You kept your head down as the Grandmaster rambled, not wanting to provoke him further. He gripped your chin, tilting your head up to meet his gaze. "You’re my greatest champion, Y/N, and I’m going to make sure they never get their hands on you."

The Grandmaster always spoke in grandiose terms, as if you were his warrior. It was probably strange how protective he was, but you assumed it was because you made him the most money. He didn't want any other record labels poaching you.

Thoughts swirled in your head as you were pulled towards the stage. Your performances were never extravagant—just you, a microphone, and a spotlight. The Grandmaster insisted it should be that way, with nothing to distract from your voice.

So here you were, standing in the center of the stage, singing a love song that held no meaning for you. You had never experienced love as the songs described it—exciting, transformative, pushing you to be a better version of yourself.

By the end of the song, your eyes had wandered to Ragnarok’s table. They laughed and drank, indifferent to anyone’s judgment. Loki wasn’t joining in; he seemed mesmerized by your voice. People said you had a voice like an angel, and it seemed they were right. You could make a room go silent and capture all eyes.

Even after you left the stage, Loki’s gaze lingered where you had stood moments before.

As usual, the Grandmaster decided you’d had enough fun and asked a security guard to escort you to a private room in the back.

"Hi, my name’s Korg. I’m one of the security guards here. I heard you singing. I tried to be a singer once, but I didn’t print enough pamphlets for my concert, so only my mum and her boyfriend, who I hate, showed up."

Korg's rambling was oddly comforting. Most guards never even made eye contact, let alone talked to you. The conversation continued even after you got to the room, took off your heels, and settled on the couch. It only stopped when the door opened and Loki walked in, holding a bottle and two glasses.

"Korg, my old buddy, I’m glad to see you. Still living with your mother? That’s great. Could you leave us alone for a minute? I saw a vending machine down the hall. Maybe get my little dove something to eat. I’m sure she’s hungry."

Loki didn’t give Korg time to respond, just placed the bottle and glasses on the table, handed Korg some notes, and said, "Keep the change." Korg glanced at you nervously before leaving.

"Join me for a drink, Dove." Loki sat next to you on the couch, pouring two glasses of an almost red liquid and holding one out to you.

"Oh, um, I’ve never drank before, and I’m sure the Grandmaster wouldn’t be happy if I did, especially with you." Shaking your head, you pushed the glass away.

"Come on, Dove. One drink won’t hurt. Maybe I’ll even show you some other things you’ve never done before."

[wisemins]

💭, 🎤 , 🎵 and 💃 for your AoT F/Os? :0 (no need to answer for all of them if you don't feel like it tho!!)

TYSM FOR THE ASK ANONNN <333 many kithies for you <3 I'll answer for all of them!! IM SO EXCITED ik i could have split this up, but I want to be annoying w my love rn <3 Thoughts 💭 - What do you think your f/o thinks about you when you’re not around? Armin: Armin I think would just be wondering if I was okay, he worries a lot and his mind tends to get the better of him! But, I also think he'd be doing something productive and is thinking of what he's gonna talk to me about later, maybe something I mentioned to him that he wanted to read up on for me to soothe his nerves. Also probably just being lost in thought about us, definitely some romantical stuff going on in his brain too!! Jean: He's being a simp. Jean can't stand being away from me for too long, he gets nervous like a dog with separation anxiety-- or well, a horse with separation anxiety? He gets very easily irritable in this time, because he also worries, but to everyone else he pretends he's totallyyy not worrying about whether or not I'm somehow in some kind of situation that's not ideal or dangerous. Or he gets insecure if I'm with someone else giving them all the attention I give him, he's a very jealous person. But, if he knows for a fact that I'm safe and sound, he's still being a simp, and he's thinking about me in very simpy way. Erwin: 100% thinking about me coming into his office to convince him to stop working however late he's up in the middle of the night and to come to bed. He plays it over and over in his head until it actually happens, or he's done with his work. He has so much responsibility, but he likes that I bring him away from it when he's overworked since he can't bring himself to do it. It prevents less exhaustion, and I get to actually have my man in my bed at night! Any other time though? He's thinking of what he's going to do for me when I get home, make dinner, maybe buy a spontaneous gift, perhaps write out some romantic letter. He's always looking for ways to surprise me when I'm not around! Yelena: Also being a simp. A huge, flaming, homo. She can't stop thinking about me at any given moment, she just can't! At work? She's thinking about me. Out with her co-workers? She wishes she was at home with me. She has to take a business trip without me? Oh she's gonna die without me around. I won't hear the end of it. She's thinking wholesome things, spicy things, anything to do with me. If she's out shopping and sees something I'd like? No question about it TAKE HER MONEY she's buying it for me. Yelena can't go longer than 24 hours without seeing my face or she goes into withdrawals, she turns feral!

Microphone 🎤 - Does your f/o sing or play music? If so, how are they at their craft, and what’s your favorite thing about it? Armin: Does not sing or play music! He loves listening to it though! Jean: Jean play Bass guitar and electric guitar, he's pretty good at it! He's a pretty decent singer too, but he likes playing more than singing. My favorite thing about it is the confidence he gets, it's so ridiculously attractive and I'm such a loser when he gets like that. Erwin: In my mind, Erwin was 100% a theater kid. His projection voice? Ain't no way he wasn't! I think he can sing very very well, but he just never gets the chance to anymore! But, now that he knows I have the hots for any good vocals, oh, he's singing a lot more. Even if it's just simple stuff while he's in the kitchen, or he's singing along to musicals we watch. He's got a great voice!! No instruments though, I don't think. My favorite thing about this would be him doing those little musical bits while he's cooking dinner or organizing his desk! Yelena: Nope and nope. Maybe she was in band when she was a kid and had to very awkwardly play the clarinet or something, but she's not very musically inclined. She likes to listen to it as well though!

Song 🎵 - What’s a song your f/o knows by heart, and a song you know by heart? Armin: Oh, easy. Line Without A Hook by Ricky Montgomery. He knows it's a generic/popular song but it doesn't stop us BOTH from belting it in the car very poorly because it just goes that hard!! Jean: Tonight by Peter McPoland, absolutely. He LOVES this song and will always sing it any given moment. One song I know by absolute heart no questions asked is Waiting Room by Phoebe Bridgers. You won't ever catch me singing it though!! Erwin: Theater kid incoming again!! Two choices here, maybe three. I Dreamed A Dream from Les Miserables, he loves the steady incline on that song! Also, All I Ask Of You from Phantom Of The Opera! For me, deadass ANYTHING from Sweeney Todd. Most likely Epiphany or A Little Priest! Yelena: I don't know if she does...It's probably some kind of curve ball like the national anthem or the burger king whopper song that annoys the shit out of me, I'm not too sure!! For this one I'll say the Fish McBites jingle, bcus my echolalia won't let that go.

Dance 💃 - Can you or your f/o dance? Armin: Yes! I think Armin is a great dancer! He really like doing it, but he's no professional or anything, he just thinks it's fun! He knows I cannot dance and will refuse to, but I love watching him dance! Jean: ...yes? Yes. He can dance but it's very sloppy, he has great potential though. Always tries to get me to dance but he can never convince me bcus it'd just be embarrassing with both of us OFIUHSAD Erwin: Theater kid. I think he can do some stuff! I will beat this head canon into the ground!! Will insist on ballroom dancing, which he will 100% have to lead and do most of the work for cus I can't dance for the life of me. Yelena: We both can't dance but she refuses to take that as an answer! I have a drawing I did of us doing just that, here! She's super tall and I'm only JUST tall. It's hard to work with but it's silly and fun and cute <3 TYSM FOR THE ASK!! Sorry for dumping so much, a.ot is my weakness and my Ultimate Autism™️

[5sosfanfictioncatalogue]

Non-Famous AU Masterlist

but underneath we had a fear of flying (ao3) - mimi_reads michael/calum G, 2k

Summary: To say Michael's afraid of flying would be an understatement. He is fucking terrified.

or, michael and calum meet on a plane

changing flights so you’d stay with me (ao3) - bellawritess michael/calum, luke/ashton T, 9k

Summary: “No shit,” Luke says. “A famous guy bought your coffee?”

Calum flips the magazine open as best he can with one hand. It opens to one of those tear-out-page posters, and there’s Michael, captured in the middle of playing his guitar onstage, red lights bleeding out behind him and mouth open in front of a microphone in a stand, as if he’s frozen in place, mid-song. He looks good playing guitar, comfortable onstage.

“A hot famous guy, no less,” Calum says.

-

Or: five times Calum saw Michael in an airport, and the one time Michael saw Calum.

even if i want to, i can't look away (it ain't easy to forget you) (ao3) - bellawritess luke/calum T, 4k

Summary: “Calum,” Luke says. It might be wishful thinking, but Calum is pretty sure he sounds happy. “What’s up? Haven’t heard from you in a while.”

Yeah. Since Luke moved to London. Well. Since Luke got cast in a play in the West End and relocated in less than a week. Calum knows exactly when they last spoke was, and not only because there’s a time stamp on the text messages. Luke’s play — okay, the play Luke is starring in — had been a smashing success, and after he’d left Calum on read three times in a row, Calum had gotten the unsent message loud and clear.

Everything Has Changed (ao3) - mukedayparade michael/luke N/R, 6k

Summary: Michael has been obsessed with Luke Hemmings and his band 5 Seconds of Summer for 3 years, and all he’s wanted since then was to get a chance to meet them.

Fine Print - @daydadahlias​​ (cornflowerblue (daydadahlias)) luke/ashton M, 61k

Summary: If Michael says Ashton Irwin will be a good bodyguard then sure, Luke will put his money on Ashton being a good bodyguard. Besides, all Luke needs is a shadow. So what if he doesn’t like him?

Who ever cared about liking their shadow anyway?

or the one where Luke is a heartbroken solo artist who can't sleep and Ashton is his less-than-enthusiastic bodyguard

for real (ao3) - galacticsugar luke/calum E, 63k

Summary: There’s an order to things in LA. An established code of conduct between celebrity and mere mortal, wherein the mere mortal does not engage with the celebrity unless it is an approved event, like a red carpet or a meet & greet. It’s a symbiotic relationship that allows the celebrities to live their lives in relative peace and allows the mere mortals to look upon their beauty in the wild.

Homecoming - @sup3rbloom (haveufoundwhaturlookingfor) ot4 T, 4k

Summary: Luke is an up and coming famous singer with quite a big following already. He’s just gotten home from his six month tour, and he’s reunited with his three non-famous boyfriends. Luke decides to take a big leap and come out with his three boyfriends.

it's going to be okay - @sup3rbloom (haveufoundwhaturlookingfor) michael/ashton, luke/calum G, 4k

Summary: Michael is a big name celebrity, in the same group as Harry Styles and Taylor Swift. He has supportive husband Ashton by his side, but not everything is sunshine and rainbows for the couple.

it's obvious i just can't get enough of you (ao3) - nationalnobody calum/ashton E, 8k

Summary: It’s 6PM and Calum is angry. Calum isn’t an angry guy but there is only so much Michael Clifford Bullshit ™ that one human being can physically take. Being the super cool-headed and level guy he is, he heads to the gym to wind down and relax. Everything is going peachy until a fucking sex deity with curly hair has to bend over across the room and destroy any shred of cool in his body.

let's make this night last forever (ao3) - bellawritess michael/calum T, 3k

Summary: “You — you just bid $2000 on a date with Michael Clifford.”

Calum blinks, a lot, and picks his head up off Luke’s shoulder. “Who the fuck is Michael Clifford?”

Long Time, No See (ao3) - ConfusedPython michael/luke, calum/ashton T, 23k

Summary: Michael hears a song on the radio, catches a radio interview where 5 Seconds of Summer talks about their new single (Beside You). And the names and voices are familiar. Then someone knocks at the door and maybe Michael's luck isn't so bad after all.

Love At First Sight - @sup3rbloom (haveufoundwhaturlookingfor) luke/ashton, michael/calum T, 3k

Summary: A shared bruises soulmate au in which Michael and Calum are already soulmates and Ashton is still waiting for his soulmate, and he also happened to get stuck with an incredibly clumsy soulmate.

Number One (ao3) - iCheeseYou (EHkook) michael/luke T, 3k

Summary: Michael hasn't seen his musician of a best friend in a year since he left for a world tour.

Off-Screen (ao3) - allsassnoclass (brightblackholes) luke/ashton G, 3k

Summary: Now that classes are being taught from home due to the pandemic, students are getting a glimpse into Professor Irwin's home life, especially when his mysterious husband keeps interrupting class.

Trouble Is I Can't Find A Way (You're Part of Me) (ao3) - sunsetmagnolia luke/ashton T, 24k

Summary: Ashton didn’t know what to make of the thought that Luke was here. In his city. After all the effort he’d put into making sure they were a whole country away from each other for so many years.

unmute (ao3) - allsassnoclass (brightblackholes) luke/ashton, michael/crystal M, 21k

Summary: In 2011, Luke Hemmings met Ashton Irwin for the first time. In 2020, he told the world they’re married. This is the story of everything that happened in between.

we’ve got time on our side (ao3) - fannyann luke/calum, calum/liam E, 57k

Summary: Calum meets Luke in the midst of buying new underwear. Two tours and a lot of heartache later, they finally get it right.

You Are My Getaway (Something about the Sunshine) (ao3) - orphan_account luke/ashton, michael/calum N/R, 20k

Summary: Ashton Irwin just wants to get through senior year to finally leave Kalamazoo, Michigan. On a family trip to Los Angeles, he finds himself literally bumping into Lucas Hemmings, a teen pop sensation. Even though it doesn’t make sense, Ashton finds he actually gets along with the huge celebrity.

With paparazzi trying to catch their every move and Luke’s career to think about, their relationship might be ruined before it’s started. What will happen when they get found out?

[mistressemmedi]

Måneskin: "Different from whom?"

Greetings from Miley Cyrus - phenomenal numbers.

The streams of Zitti e Buoni are growing by the second, and ahead of Muse, on the top of the English charts, twelfth in the Spotify Global Chart. We almost tripled followers after Rotterdam (from 1.4 to 3.3 million, ed). Contagious and universal madness: T-shirts and merchandise sold out in 10 minutes. Like records, tickets for a tour that adds dates and expands on maps. They are even looking for us in festivals where the Rolling Stones have played. - Thomas

After the whole cocaine scandal that was started against us from France, which was later denied by my drug test, in Spain there people have been making murals with my face saying "No drugs". Some tweets made us laugh: «Congratulations, Italy! I have never been so sure that four people have fucked each other ". Miley Cyrus started following us. "You are great". “You are more” . - Damiano

From rags to riches - what a story

It was only 2016, and we were playing in restaurants, on the streets, in via del Corso (famous street in Rome). Damiano without a microphone, Thomas's guitar with broken strings, Ethan drummed on a cajón. At the occupations of the high schools in Rome (Kennedy, Virgilio, Mamiani) we had our first gigs and half an hour of fame, between those who criticized us and those who said "these guys are so cool". One of the rare times in which they offered to pay us to play - 50 euros each - we offered that money to those after us, in exchange for the chance to play during their time slow, as we knew there would have been a bigger crowd. We already understood then how it worked. That visibility was worth more than the money. We still think so ». - Victoria

The intimacy of rock - Choice of a genre

Music allows is this miracle which allows one to talk about very personal and private topics, even difficult and delicate ones. They are and remain deeply yours, but at the same time they become a confession that reaches a wider audience, and in this passage which is like a delivery, they also find their place in you, their elaboration. They are overcome, they are accepted. One moment it feels aggressive, one moment later a (soft) ballad. It's very cathartic. - Damiano

Against panic - The stage as therapy

I have suffered a lot from anxiety and panic attacks, it is a problem that I have worked on thanks to a course of psychotherapy, to my friends and family. Playing has helped me not to let myself be paralyzed by my fears, not to be limited in my private and professional life. I have learned to accept, to live with this side of me. I don't hide it. I no longer feel ashamed. - Victoria

This belief that only crazy people go to the psychologist is widespread ignorance. Nobody is born learned. And it is often difficult to understand why we are here, let alone the derivation and direction of our desires. It is a long and legitimate journey towards one's clarity. - Damiano

Essere fuori di testa – Ma diversi da loro (Be out of your mind - But different from them)

Already feeling a strong passion for something that is not a 'regular' profession but an artistic language, it puts you on a level where you're an anomaly, and while you're neither superior nor inferior to others, it places you in the condition of what breaks the mold but you're also being at a loss, leaving it to you to be bold and to take risks, hoping that they will pay off and land you somewhere. "What good is it if you don't stand out on your own?". You want to give it an aesthetic to your artistic dream, but to others it boils down to " You dress differently! You must be gay! ”, I'm 22 now and it makes me laugh, but at 17 it had an effect on me too. - Damiano

The beauty of being unique - Of believing in that and defending it

After all, we are all different not because we want to be alternative but because really no one is the same. Justice is being judged on what you do and not what you are. Justice is equality, respect, beauty. - Ethan

Fluid sexuality - Pride is freedom

We appreciate heels on men, we kiss each other, we have an open, extended mind, and we are proud of it. The horizons become vast, beyond the oppression of conservative families. With information on the web, knowledge is enriched and with it the possibility that minorities will be fewer and fewer, because majorities will be fewer and fewer. This will lower the volume to insults and bullying. If social networks can reach a village of 50 souls to reveal to someone, who is afraid of the darkness, that someone has felt that same fear.. There is no longer the need to give it a name, to define that "something" to fear, to brand it with labels that only limit you. Definitions have always had this effect on me. Gender should not even be considered in a person's judgment. Let alone orientation ". - Victoria

Sexism - A culture to be dismantled

Emma (Italian singer) dropped the bomb:" When I went to Eurovision, they insulted me over a pair of shorts. Damiano - half naked and in heels - was never criticized ". The judgment against women is constant, ferocious, and demeaning (if I have a lot of sex I'm cool but Vic a whore, where I show myself strong I'm a leader she is domineering and pain in the ass, who is successful because only because of her looks [and not the hard work she puts in]). As a male I am privileged, the harassment I suffer is not comparable to that experienced by a woman, the comments on my aesthetics are focused only on my aesthetics and do not insinuate anything about my professionalism and my competence, while women are victims of this kind of thinking in a systemic way. But I did find myself in a situation, out of nowhere, with someone who, pulling close to her for a selfie, started licking my face ... "What do you want, did you ask me?" Consent exists, and it is a must ». - Damiano

To grow as a person - The only rule to follow

For me, to conform is the total opposite of educating oneself, and the asphyxiation of one's expression (of freedom). Fortunately, I did not suffer heavy bullying, to the point where I felt I needed to change to adapt to how others saw me. But the matrix of who I am and the aggression that marks me is the same. If I'm a kid who dances and loves dolls, then allow me the freedom to do so. I used to be a kid who wanted long hair and played with Barbies. My friends, as a teenager, looked my long hair and teased me: "You have to find yourself a girl with a short hair to make up for it". My grandparents took the dolls away from me and said: “Stop it, they're not for you” ». - Ethan

“I was six and I already could not tolerate the distinctions between masculine and feminine. I've always had strong ideas about how I wanted to be. I refused things typically defined as feminine as a child, and they made fun of me for skating, for playing soccer, for not wearing skirts, for giving myself the chance to be as I wanted to be. I suffered a little, as I was bullied, but I had courage to stay true to myself, and today thanks to that courage I know that I could have been much more hurt, or I would have risked leaving the most important decision to others: the one about being just me". - Victoria

Love - music and girlfriends

I've been married to music for the past 20 years. I cannot wait to celebrate our golden wedding anniversary. - Ethan

Everyone goes through their own experiences, sometimes it's good, sometimes it's bad, but it's never other people's business." - Thomas

When, for the first time, I developed feelings and attraction for a girl it was a bit disorienting because I had never had the courage to go beyond the limitations I had imposed on myself. For society, being heterosexual is the norm and therefore often one automatically pegs himself in that way, giving up the freedom to experience many different shades and facets of love. Once I got over the initial insecurity of having to question one's own certainties, I lived my sexuality in a very natural and free way, as it should be for everyone. - Victoria

I had paparazzi under my house morning and night. So, after four years of relationship, I finally revealed her name. I still have the paparazzi under my house morning and night, but at least I don't have to hide anything anymore. - Damiano

The value of the group - Protecting each other

But the real relationship, the real family, is between us. Our band. We believed in it from the first day, even before calling ourselves Måneskin (moonlight in Danish), even before Ethan drew a giant moon, on the poster for our first concert. We share everything, even the pain of the tragedy of Seid Visin, who committed suicide at 20 because he was a victim of racism. Being a group is what we should all do together: stay united and not retreat in the slightest in the face of abuses generated by a distorted vision of someone "being different|. - Thomas

Non ho l’età – like Gigliola (It references Gigliola Cinquetti who won both Sanremo and Eurovision with her song "Non ho l’età" which translates to Not old enough)

Before us, the only one to win Sanremo and Eurovision together was Gigliola Cinquetti (in 1964). Is there is something for which I feel I am not yet old enough for? No, honestly no. Maybe for kids. I'll be honest, I'm not enough to be a dad. - Damiano

Reached the sky - What fears still remain

We are more than in the dream, we have conquered the dream. To fly high this high, there is the risk is to fall and get hurt, but we will try not to end up like Icarus, who burns his wings with the sun. Everything is in our hands. And this - somewhat presumptuously - reassures us rather than frighten us ". - Damiano

(ORIGINAL INTERVIEW IN ITALIAN)

[Please note that I have changed some words or structure sentence, trying to make it so that the interview made more sense lol - I skipped the first two paragraphs, which was basically the interviewer gushing over how pretty the band is lmao (relatable).

Any mistakes in the translation are sorely mine, nothing was proofread, so apologies in advance]

[charlies-gillespie]

proud boyfriend | luke patterson

paring: fem!alive!reader x alive!luke patterson

summary: Luke and Sunset Curve have finished practicing their set for their performance at the Orpheum when reader picks up one of Luke’s guitar and messes around on stage

length: short (kinda like a drabble ig)

rating: PG

warnings: none

!! NOT MY GIF !!

MASTERLIST

Don't look down 'Cause we're still rising up right now And even if we hit the ground We'll still fly Keep dreaming like we'll live forever But live it like it's now or never It's now or never

You clap and cheer for Sunset Curve as they finish up practicing their set. They get to play at the Orpheum tonight, and you’ve never been prouder of your boyfriend and his closest friends.

Luke smiles and says into his microphone, “We’re Sunset Curve.”

Reggie chimes in and says, “Tell your friends.” You laugh as the guys put down their instruments and one-by-one hop off the stage. Luke comes over to you and wraps an arm around your shoulders.

“How is my favorite roadie?” your boyfriend asks you.

With a light laugh, you say, “I’m your only roadie.”

He smiles and says, ‘Touché, Miss L/N.” You look up at Luke, a little smile on your face. Luke leans down and presses a lingering kiss to your lips.

Alex says, “Okay, ew. Let’s not suck faces in the middle of the Orpheum.” Both you and Luke laugh, pulling away from the kiss.

Luke says, “I have to run to the bathroom. When I get back, we can go find something to eat.” The small group, meaning you, Alex, Reggie, and Bobby, nod in response. Luke kisses the side of your head before walking off to find the bathrooms.

The guys stand around and socialize. You climb up onto the stage, taking Luke’s electric guitar in your hands. You bought him this guitar a few months ago when he seriously wanted to perform. You’ve played a lot of guitar in your life. It’s one of the things that you and Luke bonded over when you met last year.

“Play something,” Reggie says, looking at you from the floor. Alex and Bobby look up at you on the stage.

You laugh and say, “I’m not good enough to play on this stage.”

Alex says, “Y/N, please play something. We believe in you.” The three boys start to chant your name and you smile. You put the guitar strap over your body and you grab a pick. You strum the strings before playing the beginning chords to Another One Bites the Dust by Queen. You step up to the microphone, knowing that it’s probably turned off by now.

Steve walks warily down the street With his brim pulled way down low Ain't no sound but the sound of his feet Machine guns ready to go

In the meantime, Luke’s left the bathrooms and he hears your voice on the microphone that actually wasn’t turned off. He pops his head around the corner, seeing you on stage with his guitar.

Alex, Reggie, and Bobby wave their lead singer over. Luke has a look of awe on his face as he watches you perform.

Are you ready hey are you ready for this? Are you hanging on the edge of your seat? Out of the doorway the bullets rip To the sound of the beat yeah

Luke smiles as he watches you on the stage. You’re comfortable up here, but your attention has always gone to Luke’s band and his music that you’ve never had time to think of a career on your own.

“I didn’t realize how good she was,” Alex says, draping an arm over Luke’s shoulders. Your boyfriend is kind of proud that you can shred on the guitar.

Your boyfriend says, “I knew she could play, but I had no idea she had the vocals that she does.”

You can’t even hear the guys talking as you finish playing your song.

As soon as you finish playing, you look at the group of now four boys. Luke looks like a proud boyfriend as you put down his guitar. You climb down from the stage, approaching the guys.

Reggie says, “You’re so talented, Y/N. I had no idea that you could play like that.”

Alex nods in agreement and he says, “You should think about starting your own career. You’d probably make all the money with those killer vocals.”

“I’m busy supporting you guys,” you tell the band. “I’m your part-time manager in a way. I don’t have time to start my own career.”

Luke looks at you and says, “When we make it big, you’re going to be our opening act. People need to hear how amazing you are, Y/N. I had no idea you could sing like that.”

You smile and say, “I don’t do it very often.”

Reggie says, “Do it more often.”

The group laughs as Luke says, “Okay, I think we should go get something to eat. I was thinking street dogs.”

You make a face and say, “Can’t we just hit a McDonald’s or something? Street dogs will kill us one of these days because we eat so many of them.”

Bobby snaps his fingers and says, “I agree with Y/N.”

Luke laughs and says, “McDonald’s it is. Let’s go.” Your boyfriend takes your hand and the two of you pile into Reggie’s car, heading to a McDonald’s to fuel up for tonight’s show.

[magicalsalamander]

Lacuna

Pairing: Jin ⇆ Reader

Genre: Law Students | Werewolf | Childhood best friends to idiot enemies to lovers | F | A | S

Summary: Lacuna(n): (1) In law, a non liquet (commonly known as “lacuna in the law”) is any situation where there is no applicable law. (2) An unfilled space or interval; a gap.

You are well equipped at handling whatever life throws at you. You had worked hard to erase the past and mold a new you, and the future were to become a lawyer. Well, everything was planned expect for your ex best friend who came back into your life like a crashing gavel. Just when you thought you could deal with his presence, he was now your partner on a case that was bigger than you had ever imaged.

Words: 21K

Warning: Mature; explicit themes, sexual content, and violence.  Lots of law inaccuracies. Alcohol and  club situations. Heavy angst with lots of arguing. Previous trauma of abandonment, harsh words and feeling unworthy. Knotting, cunnilingus, fingering, mentions of impregnation, soft dom Jin, marking/claiming, and possessive behavior.

A/N: It’s been so long since I’ve put out something! I want to thank everyone for being so patient and always supporting me! Thank you @heyitsmee2 for reading over this early on. I apricate you!

*Story mildly edited due to time constraint, will edit further 

| Masterlist | Copyright 2020 © by magicalsalamander. All rights reserved.

You were no stranger to the game; surviving and trying to be someone in the charade of corporatism.  It was all too important to be unemotional. You’d soon find yourself in Prometheus place than on the highest rock on Olympus if you let yourself slip and you were sure of your path.

Calculation leads to quantification—and it takes only seven second to make an impression.

Your throat narrows with altitude, but the breadth of your career expands.

The raspy voice of the jazz singer was a rich wine as she caressed the vintage microphone intimately. The soft notes of the piano and band follow in tandem with the slow, romantic song she sung. The dark golden hue casted over the ballroom from the multitude of chandeliers only perpetuated the elegance of the atmosphere. Parties like this were suffocating despite being in a room sized for a hanger. You wouldn’t doubt either than some of the patrons here own their own planes.  

You down the rest of your wine nearly rolling your eyes at the romantic lyrics. When you were a little girl events like this were a dream, places like this gave promise of finding a prince charming. At least that’s what all the movies feed you and lead you to believe would happen until reality set in. This event wasn’t romantic in the slightest. It was to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the law firm. The entire point of the function tonight was to schmooze and be seen. As an intern, this was prime time for you. However, you suppose you were living the dream, just not a fairytale. You had worked hard to get this internship, nabbing one of the four spots that over thousands applied to. You had done what felt like to be the impossible—coming form a school that wasn’t ivy made it all the more surreal. Important business people, old and new money mixed in with ‘top of the food chain’ lawyers were all present and hiring opportunities post-graduation. That is if you don’t end up getting a job post with the firm, but a smart woman always keeps her options open.

The obligatory greeting and sucking up to had already passed and it was the lull of time where everyone was wondering who would be the first to leave. Your senses go off as you catch a two of four making his way through the crowd towards you. Standing up as if you hadn’t caught glimpse of Logan from your peripheral. You smile at those who you had shared the table with, names already forgotten, number three’s included, silently bidding them an underserved excuse me. You grab at the bottom of your dress and move through the crowd. You miss the scrunch in brow from Logan as he picks up speed after you. He was the typical American type of handsome with brown hair, strong brows, square face, shadowed beard, lean and tall. Logan was nice, made his name memorable by persistence, but the guy couldn’t take a hint. How he’s made it this far has been a mystery to you.

As you break the crowd going into the hallway, you hear him calling your name. Acting as if you couldn’t hear him, you ask a server where the restroom was and quickly headed in that direction. He began jogging to catch up with you. Your pace began to pick up too. You counted down the seconds, four, three, two—the bathroom was still to far to accommodate for your sudden pick up in counting.

“Y/n! Wait, oh, sorry, excuse me.” Timely a cart full of new hors d'oeuvre blocks his path.

Seeing his distraction, you abruptly turned and head down another hall from the main meant for staff. You reached for the first door and to your muttered curse when it was locked. You jogged to the second door which opened and closed it behind you as if fire was at your feet. Not bothering to turn on the light, you backed up further into the closet until you hit something. You had expected to hit a wall, but instead what you bumped into what oddly felt human, a large one at that. When they oofed, you scampered away. Fear thickening in you as you rapidly apologized under your breath. Instinct dictated you get out, as you opened the door to leave the heavy sound of footsteps outside had you closing it right back. The person with you murmured a beginning of a question but you quickly reached up, cupping the mouth of whomever was inside with you. Shushing them they quieted up instantly. The slight stubble under your hand indicated it was a man. At this point you didn’t care if they were someone important. You winced as you heard Logan calling your name again. The man murmured a muffled question that you couldn’t understand and you shushed them again until the footsteps outside quieted.

Sighing in relief you removed your hand from his mouth, using the same hand to search for a light switch. With an apology on the tip of your tongue turning to face the stranger, you froze, staring back equally as motionless as him in shock.

Kim Seokjin.

Number four.

Dressed to the nines in a black suit that clung to him tightly. His broad shoulders were pronounced, and with his height tall he took a lot of space. His thick, dark hair was pushed away from his face. His eyes flashed red before it disappeared back into its espresso color. He looked gorgeous. You’d never utter that out loud, but you couldn’t ignore it either. It irritated you even more. He irritated you.

��Oh for fuck’s sake.” You drawled out the oh incredulously.

A smirk pulled at his thick lips. “Hello to you too.”

“I never knew you to be so forward, at least take me to dinner first.”

Looking around you realized you were in a janitor’s closet. The scent of bleach was thick, taking up as much space as Seokjin’s personality in the confined space.

“What are you doing here?” You asked while wiping the hand that was over his mouth on your dress not so subtly.

He shrugged, suffocating a laugh at your gesture. “Needed a break.”

That was hard to believe. Jin was a natural at talking to people. He made it seem easy. He always had this sense of composure and poise about him. Staring at eachother his eyes broke from your gaze as he looked you up and down. Suddenly feeling self-conscious you adjusted your dress. The black satin dress you were wearing suddenly felt tighter than when you put it on. Under his gaze you’ve always felt this way, vulnerable, but you’ve learned how to conceal it better over time.

“What?” You hissed at him when he still stared.

“This isn’t the first time you caught me in a closet.” Quietly he followed up with, “Reminds me of the first time we met.”

You don’t know what bothers you more, Seokjin’s casual reference to the past or the fact that you suddenly are placed back there. You remember being terrified, wrapping your blue, pilling blanket over your head only letting your head poke through. You had been reading under your blanket when you heard thumping coming from your closet. With your flashlight pointing at your closet you swallowed harshly as the sound came again. Your parents had told you that monsters were fake, but the sounds sounded real.

Your light was shaking on the white double doors. “H-Hello?” you bravely called out. The thumping stopped. You gulped inching closer. You were taught to be brave. Your dad said that monsters couldn’t hurt you, especially if you don’t show fear. Like the book you were reading, “Where the Wild Things Are”, you like Max, could confront the monsters too. You could become and make them friends with them. You were sure of it.  

“H-hey,” swallowing hard, ”I’m opening the door, don’t bite me okay. I won’t hurt you.”

When no response resounded you breathed in deeply through your nose. Reaching out and yanking the door open you came face to face, inches away, from a boy hiding in your closet. A majority of your clothes were pulled from their hangers and piled on the floor which he was laying on. Similarly in equal fright from you bursting open the door, a shirt he had over his head fell off revealing furry grey dog ears.  At the sound of your gasp, he gasped, and a tail that swept to the floor wrapped around his middle.

Buffering in the moment you stared at the boy who seemed to be around the same age as you. Recognition filters through you, “Max?” Your eyes lit up in wonder.

The boy squinted at you, almost upset. “My name’s not Max, it’s Seokjin!”

“Why do you have ears and a tail like him then?”

His brows furrowed, “Because I’m a—.”

You heard a knock on your door from your mother hushing Seokjin instantly. “Sweetie, are you still awake?”

The boy lurched forward cupping a hand over your mouth seeing you were going to respond. “You can’t tell anyone I’m here.”

You whispered, “Why?”

“Y/N?”

His eyes gleamed as he silently pleaded with you, switching between the shadow from under your bedroom door and your eyes, bidding for you to understand.

Nodding in understanding, somehow you understood. Your mom from the other side of the door sighed, “I know you’re pretending to sleep, Pumpkin. Put the book away. I know its Saturday but remember lights out by 9.”

“Okay, Mom.” Finally speaking up.

“G’night.”

“G’night.”

She walked away.

Seokjin studied you carefully, eyeing you skeptically. “You’re not scared?”

“No, should I be?”

He paused truly thinking. “Yes. You should be.”

“Well, I’m not. I’m brave.”

He’s getting nervous and began muttering to himself. “You shouldn’t have seen me. I shouldn’t have fallen asleep. It just smelled so nice.” The last part was whispered out low enough where you couldn’t hear it.

“How did you get in?”

He pulled you into the closet down next to him, closing the door behind. The flashlight was between you both pointing towards the ceiling tightly grasped between your hands. His hands over you. His gaze serious and intent. “Promise you won’t tell anyone, swear on it! Swear on your life!”

You felt like you were being presented the ultimate challenge. This boy was trusting you with his all, maybe this was your adventure. Your destiny. You could be honorable. You nodded, “I swear, I swear.”

“What are you though? Why do you have ears and a tail? Are they real?”

“They’re real.” He said haughtily before pridefully confessing. “I’m a werewolf.”

Your eyes were sparkling, the blanket surrounding you long forgotten and dropped. “Oh, wow! Can I touch your ears?”

He nodded. Your reaction to his secret was surprising to him. He had been told by his parents and everyone in the pack that he should never real his truth. Humans had been enemies for centuries, hunting his kind since the beginning of time. Although, the kind had lived amongst humans for centuries, finding ways to blend in and look alike. The difference was the ability to shift into their natural form.

“Why are you not, like, you know—a wolf?”

“Papa said I can shift fully when I become a man.”

You carefully reached up and felt. He shivered at the touch. “Puppy.”

He growled at you, “Don’t call me puppy.”

“But you’re cute.”

He blushed, scrambling up and pushing your closet door open before heading over to your window. “I have to go.” He began climbing out of your window landing on the ground. Your home was one floor.

You stuck your head out of the window. “Wait!”

He turned around,

“Will I see you again?”

He looked around, nodding before he disappeared between the trees.

It was nearly magnetic the way you both clicked. It was nearly painful being apart from eachother after that night. He would come to your window and sneak into your room almost every night. The following school year you finally went to the same school, Jin having convinced his parents he wanted to change schools. That’s when you both became inseparable. Years later he still snuck into your room, even though he could come through the front door, and still hid in your closet just to scare you. Although, you learned to growl back at him.

It was your normal, but at some point things began to change.

More specifically you were no longer kids. Puberty hit and you were no longer innocent to the maturity that began to bloom in you both. You knew Jin was always touchy. He would hug you and sometimes his hand would linger on you longer than necessary. He would lean in sometimes to smell you, nuzzling his nose against your temple. Initially it had bothered you, the sensation ticklish, but he had explained it quickly it was a werewolf thing. That didn’t change the way your heart would flip each time though.

Jin grew taller than you towering over you, and signs of man began replacing the baby fat. Time was good to him. He found a pack and you no longer spent every waking moment together. It wasn’t that you weren’t welcome, the six boys in his pack were nice, but you had your own group of friends that you began hanging out with. You suppose that was the beginning of the unraveling of your relationship. Naïve and feeling lost you latched onto the first group that accepted you.

Even if they weren’t good for you. You were becoming aware of popularity and boys as it was the only topic they choose to discuss. You began to feel self-conscious because your friends all had boyfriends before, but you still hadn’t. When you introduced the girls to Jin, your presence was made solely into providing information about the boys. The pack were isolationist, but you suppose that’s what made them more attractive besides their looks to hormonal teenage girls. Only now do you realize they accepted you was because you knew Jin and his friends. Specifically, one of the girls, Jenna—if you could remember correctly, would always asking you about Jin.

The breaking point was when Jenny, who knew of your obvious unrequited crush, finally asked you. “You wouldn’t mind if I ask him out right?”

“Jin?” You repeated his name as if you were unsure you heard her right. Although you heard his name coming out of her mouth more times than you can count.

“Yeah, Jin. I mean, you don’t like him, right?” Like a snake she drew out the last words, expression full of pity to resemble comfort. It didn’t help when the other girls at the table all had a similar expression, encouraging her and cornering you.

“I-I—.” You were cut off as another girl spoke up.

“Be real Jenny, they’ve been friend since forever. If he liked Y/n, he would’ve said so already. He doesn’t see her that way.”

The other girl sitting next to her laughed, “Totally doesn’t.”

Blinking back the tears, her words weren’t wrong. Embarrassment flushes through you. Embarrassed that you had even believed that Jin’s affection towards you could ever mean more. The fact that he had made your heart skip a beat. Swallowing your heartache, with a voice more confident than you felt, “Yeah. We’re only friends.”

Squeals and laughter echo out throughout the table in excitement. “Oh my god! Then when you two start dating, you should introduce us to the rest of the friends. I mean Y/n hasn’t done it, but I know you will.”

You were quickly forgotten. The bell rang and the all of them got up as they giggled and walked away to their classes. Sitting alone at the table, you stare at your tray, food partially nibbled on. A single tear falls down onto the table before you suck up the other that threatened to fall. How could you be so stupid. How could you have misread things all along? You get up from the table in a hurry, nearly tripping as your foot caught.

As you step out of the bench of the picnic table you make eye contact with Jin who had been standing at a lunch table a few tables away. The rest of the pack moving around him, but he was still staring at you.

Your embarrassment flushes deeper, had he had heard it all? Your heart breaks even further as you force a smile at him and he returned the gesture. The simple response solidifies everything—you’re just friends.

You miss the way his eyes follow you out of the lunchroom.

The heartache only gets worse as Jin begins making excuses on why he can’t hang out. Claiming he has pack things to deal with. You also begin making excuses no longer hanging out with the girls, even though they don’t seek you out. You instead dedicating your time in the library. You begin reading the books tucked away in the furthest corner of the library, vintage leatherbound books on laws, just to distract yourself. It becomes your new solace.

A few months pass, the sudden silence between you became increasingly awkward. You hadn’t realized how Jin was entangled with every single part of your life. You grew annoyed because your parents would always ask where Jin was. The visible change was when you began noticing the extra portion at the dinner table for him was no longer there. The look they began to give you, seeing the distress in you began to wear you thin.

Deciding enough was enough you decide to confront him, but still cowardly enough to do it between passing. Walking through the halls you headed towards his lockers, knowing he’d be there. His locker just a bit in from an intersection of the halls. When you finally catch sight of him he stood there with two other boys form his pack, Jimin and Hoseok. You swallowed hiding behind the wall where you could hear them, waiting for the two to leave so you could get to speak to him alone.

“Come on hyung. Come on another run tonight.” You could hear Jimin asking

Jin closed his locker after switching out his books then leaning up against it. “I can’t tonight.”

“Why? Gotta go see your girlfriend?” Jimin teases.

Jin hesitated.

You couldn’t see his expression from your place. Your heart sunk, lower lip trapped between your teeth. Had Jenny finally asked him out? Your heart was beating out of your chest.

“No, fuck off Jimin, you already know why.”

Your brows furrow. Has something been going on with Jin? How come he hasn’t told you. He used to tell you everything. You miss the conversation slightly as you contemplate what you’ve been missing with Jin. You had so much to ask him. The question on the tip of your tongue too was –had he finally fully shifted? He had always told you that he had wanted you to be the first he showed his wolf.

Zoning back in you hear Hoseok question. “Come to think of it, haven’t seen Y/n in a while, she doing okay?”

“Normally you’re like a dog in heat around her.”

“No I’m not! I don’t see her like that.”

“You sure?”

“I don’t have time for feelings or emotions.”

You cover your mouth, swallowing your feeling. You suffocate the tears. Everything the girls said were confirmed.

Jin had been so engulfed in his protecting his ego, he hadn’t been able to sense you just around the corner. He then smells it. He smells you. His head twirled towards the wall where he knew you were hiding just behind. He knows your there. He clenched his fist, he wants to go after you but he can’t, it would only prove the teasing.

Clenching your books closer to your chest you run away. Your mind working a thousand miles an hour. Lost in your turmoil you miss that you’re walking straight into someone. Stumbling slightly you look up seeing the person you didn’t want to run into. You don’t pause to apologize or recognize her yelling at you. You needed to get away. The whole day you manage to evade him and everyone—you praise that it was Friday.

Coming home your parents were sitting in the kitchen, the only light on in the house was hanging over the dinning table. Your parents look up at you sadly. “Honey, we have some bad news.”

Your backpack slouched off your shoulders and onto the floor as you took a seat.

Your mother swallowed, placing her hand on top of yours. “We’re moving. I’m sorry, Pumpkin. I know you have so many friends here. Your father’s job is forcing him to transfer to the city, the plant here is shutting down.”

You remain stoic, processing the information. However, you smile, squezzing her hand back in assurance. “How soon can we go?”  

Their expression registered shocked. Clearing their throats as they somberly told you, “We’re leaving next week.”

Nodding you get up from the table, leaving your parents apologizing to you. You dragged yourself to your room. Standing alone in the darkness, words found you again. “Not soon enough.”

You moved away, and soon what it was like to be around him everyday was forgotten. You became strangers. An unpleasant memory.

You had done college, and decided early on that you wanted to go into law. Those leather bound, vintage law books was the only thing you actively brought with you from the past. Law was consistent, but ever changing. It allowed you to find a voice, a place where arguments meant something—your voice meant something. It paved the way for a new you and when you entered law school you flourished under the pressure. Everything felt like progress, at least until the day you showed up at the internship. You no longer had the luxury of pretending. Standing in the attorney’s office was Jin among the two other interns. Seeing him first saw him again felt like all wind had been sucked out of you. It was like a ghost had aspirated and so did the sting of rejection. It was all accompanied by an odd sense of longing that passed through you. You saw the way his eyes widened with recognition when he saw you.

But you both made no motion towards the other, frozen in space and time.

Ironically, time should have done its job and all healing had been done, but scars were just thicker scabs.

The nostalgia quickly washed away as it twisted into the familiar shape of disdain towards him. He was brilliant and It was irritating, so you always were sharp with him, cold even, not willing to lose to him. A rivalry quickly evolved between you. He seemed to feel the same way as he would always retaliate back. You couldn’t last a few minutes without bickering. Words just as venomous and an amused smirk always followed.

“What are you doing? Did I mess up a secret meeting?” He throws your question back at you, grounding you back into the present.

Looking at Seokjin now, he had grown up well. He had grown in height, completely towering over you. His shoulders were broad tapering off like a V to a tiny wait. He looked great in an all black suit. Thick, dark hair pushed away from his face showed off his thick brows and symmetric features. You had eyes, but your mouth would never admit it out loud how good he looked.

Rolling your eyes, you sighed, running a hand through your hair. “Avoiding Logan.”

“Logan?” You missed the way his red eyes darken deeply as it looks black. He had heard the footsteps, but now he could put a name to it. “Are you fucking him?” He questions easily, never one for a filter.

Your eyes widen, the crudeness expected despite your aggressive bickering. “Are you seriously asking me that Seokjin?” The though was so absurd and ridiculous. Has he lost his mind. What more you had never even touched this type of topic with him before, who was he to ask about your sex life.

He tucked his hands into the pocket of his slacks. “I don’t know, it’s just an obvious conclusion to draw. Considering he follows after you like a lost puppy.” He feigned a look of pity. “It’s pathetic.”

The tone he takes with talking about Logan surprises you. He never outwardly showed that the man irritated him. You had seen them chatting around the office even. Considering your desk were next to one another it was inevitable. Anger filled you again, was he calling it pathetic because he was pursuing you? Bastard.

Lazily he leaned up against the shelf, as if he was waiting for a reaction he knew he’d get from you.

“I can’t deal with you right now.” you groan, an onset headache coming on from how childish it all was. Growing frustrated and hotter by the second stuck in the closet with him. You turned to leave.

“Leaving so soon? Don’t you want to wait for him to come back around?”

“Seokjin, will you cut it out. What is with you right now?”

He shrugged, still measuring you with a hardened gaze and lips tight in anger. “Nothing.”

Why was he so angry? Earlier you had noticed that all the bigwigs were laughing easily at his jokes. Something you couldn’t deny about Seokjin was his charisma. It was easy be persuaded by him, you used to be stupid enough to be swayed by it too. Shouldn’t he be on cloudy nine, probably having already solidified a job post grad.

“Whatever. Enjoy your night Seokjin. Don’t suck off potential employers too much.”

That had him laughing. “Ever one to need footsteps to be followed. Lead the way then.”

You glare at him in what you picture to be intimidating at him. Pulling open the door. “Fuck you Seokjin.”

You stomped away, faintly hearing the laughing coming from the closet. Luckily, no one was in the hallway.

You had been aimlessly staring at an one of the many orange sticky notes you had tacked onto the glass pane between the desk. Pink was current deadlines, orange upcoming, and blue was for your frustrations. The low cubicles truly didn’t provide privacy, but it wasn’t permanent anyways so you didn’t really put effort into personalizing it. You were trying to read the orange sticky note with the date November 29th ominously written on it. You couldn’t for the life of you remember what was due on that date. The pink note next to it reading the date December 4th was a blaring reminder of the last day of your internship.

Awakening from your thoughts you heard Logan still been droning on to you about whatever he was talking about. You had stopped listening after he called your name, you hummed like you were paying attention, then zoned out. He was leaning on the glass, his desk situated right next to yours. Jin’s was situated across from yours, but he wasn’t at his desk at the moment. At least that saved you a headache.

Your phone rings and you answer it instantly, cutting off whatever he was saying. You give him a pretend fake smile, one to which he luckily accepts sitting back at his desk. Its quick as the secretary is hanging up on you before you can tell her that you’ll be there in a moment. Gathering your things, taking an extra pen just in case, you head towards the elevators.

Knocking on the door twice you let yourself in quietly behind you. Your boss was a passive man, preferring those to act than be told what to do. Turning around taking in the office before pausing noticing the back of someone’s head already sitting in one of the two chairs in front of the desk. The chair meant to occupy your boss was empty.

Remembering where you are you and ignoring him as you stride until you plop yourself into the empty seat. You refuse to look at him, instead sorting out your tablet to take notes on. You just had to wait until your boss came in the room—you could be patient. You had a vague idea of what he may want to talk to you about, but with Jin here you were at a lost. What was he doing here anyways? Had the secretary gotten his appointments mixed up? It’s been two weeks since the event. You had spoken to him since, but it had been the usual bickering. Something had changed though, it was something atmospheric between the two of you, but you couldn’t place an instance on the beginning of the feeling. Oddly, you found yourself searching for him whenever you came to the office, which had brought its own set of turmoil that you’ve yet to unravel. Now that you were sitting next to him, somehow you felt the sense of pettiness overcome you again.

Finally looking at him you notice how great he looked today. He wore common slacks and a button up, but he made the ensemble look great.

Jin asked, “What are you here for?”

Crossing your legs over you flip open your notebook. “None of your business Kim.” You hate that you had done such a good job hiding the layers of hatred and anger, but you could even recognize the coldness in your tone.

He rolled his eyes, “Typical.”

“Excuse me?”

“I’m just saying.”

“Clue me in Seokjin.”

He shrugged, clearly wanting you to put the pieces together. Rubbing at your scalp muttering under your breath. “It’s too early for this,” checking your watch, “it’s only eight-thirty in the morning, I haven’t had my coffee yet, and I have to deal with guy.”

“That explains your snappiness. You do seem constipated.”

You audibly gasp, a retort on the tip of your tongue when the door burst open to reveal your boss. A grin already on Jin’s face knowing he got the last word in before he neutralizes it. Paying you both no mind he continued grumbling into his phone that’s tucked between his neck and ear as his other hand holds a cup of coffee and a stack of paperwork in the other. Min Yoongi, your boss, was a man of few words elusive at times, but his tongue was sharper than any knife. His mind was brilliant too, a legend amongst law students. you had heard stories of his infamous mock trials when he was in school and how he had won trails out like a daredevil. He was intimidating to say the least.

Jin’s gaze was still on you before he turned to your boss who plopped into his chair. He seems frazzled, tie a bit disheveled and dress shirt not as freshly pressed as it should be. The fact that you looked kept together in front of him was kind of embarrassing. It was common sense that interns should look that way. Did his appearance have something to do with the 29th? Shit, you really needed to figure out what event was happening that day.

He flung a thick packet in a folder over to you and Jin. You flipped open the folder and read the first page. Peaking over from yours to Seokjin’s you see he was given the exact same paper.

“I’m assigning this case to the both of you.”

“Mr. Min, I don’t mean to impose on your judgement, but I can handle this on my own.” You squinted as you read it over. It seems like a generic divorce case based on the short preliminary interview.

“Can you?” Jin quirked a brow at you. You already have insults on the tip of your tounge but he continued. “Look, I’m just saying because remember that one time—.”

You bark out his name before he can continue, already knowing what story he was going to reference.

“Mr. Kim, Ms. Y/L/N.” You both instantly shut up. “If you both are treating this opportunity simply as some game between the both of you then I’m sorry to inform you that you may not be needed anymore. This is court of law. So tell me—do I need to provide this opportunity to someone else?”

At the same time you both respond. “No, Sir.”

The way he was glaring at the both of you had your toes curling in your shoes.

“Look, Ms. Y/L/N, I’ll admit you are smart, just as much as I think Mr. Kim is capable of handling his own cases. I need the both of you on it because this isn’t an ordinary case. It won’t only go to trial in court, but Kinds court too.”

The only thing you hadn’t expected to come to find out was he was also a kind. Kind being something they used in the human world to refer to their supernatural counterpart for political correctness. One afternoon not long into your internship, but months ago, you had called Jin wolf boy in the breakroom, not knowing your boss was walking in. Anyone else would think it was a passing comment, but the narrowed look that he gave you had you crystalizing. It had become second nature to you identifying when someone was otherly. Yoongi only commented as he walked out to make sure that you both keep it that only you knew.

Jin stiffened next to you, his gaze snapping up to look at Yoongi. An exchange of glances went between them that you couldn’t quite decipher.

“Seeing as you already know about our kind Ms. Y/L/N, I would like that you both work on this together. Prepare it for the courts and depending on how it goes there the Kind’s will deal with it following. Frankly, we need you on this case to keep things right on the human end. And Seokjin we need you because you have the knowledge that comes with it. I expect the both of you can approach this and prepare a case that is thorough. We cannot risk the underlying truth getting out to the public. Dress it up how you have to, leave the kind out of it until human laws can punish as needed.” He centers you both with a stare that’s unwavering, even you feel the expressive. “Do I make myself clear.”

“Yes.” Simultaneously you both respond.

Yoongi finally sits back taking a sip from his coffee that was still just a little too hot. “Everything you need is in the folder. Now get out.”

Beginning to gather you stuff, relaxing your jaw just a bit, “Thank you Sir.” You stride out of the room without looking back.

You leave not bothering to hold it for him. He was right behind you, closing the door so it wouldn’t slam shut. He watched as you strut down the hall. He huffed realizing you weren’t going to wait to talk about the case. Calling your name does no good as you still keep towards the elevators.

When the door closes, you take a moment. Truth be told, the gravity of it is not lost on you. This was going to force you and him to be close again. Backing down would prove you and the grin that would be on Seokjin’s face knowing you gave up would be enough to keep you up at night for the rest of your life. You swear you could handle it. It is just Seokjin. Your career depends on this and doing well.

But why was your heart beating so fast?

Sitting in an empty conference room, you were going over the material again. It seemed like a regular case of infidelity and the wife was filing for divorce. After Min’s pressing of the importance of this case it felt like he was mocking you. This was a case that felt “practical”. In school you had gone over these types of cases a thousand times—introduction on legal fairness and getting the most for your client. Just because it involved the kind doesn’t mean the law will treat it any different.

At least that’s what it all seemed to be.

Standing up from your seat when you heard the door handle clicking open you put on a an air of professionalism. A short woman, who nearly curled in on herself shuffled into the room. Her blue cardigan nearly engulfed her being, but her maxi dress underneath disguised most of her petite figure anyways. A male followed behind her with a hand on her back. That had you breaking your professionalism for a split second as you lifted your brow. The way he held her was anything but platonic. You wondered shortly if that was the man in the ex-husband in question.

Extending your hand out to her in greeting. “Hello, Ms. West, I’m Y/N. Pleasure to meet you.”

In the softest voice she greeted you back. You turn to greet the male he introduced himself as Damien Caldwell. With your hand still out towards him, he refused to shake your hand. Mentioning something along the lines of scent tainting. Pretending you understood you signaled them to take a seat.

You all take a seat with Jin next to you and them across.

Carefully observing her you monitor that she was fidgeting a lot, clearly nervous.

Jin glanced at you and his expression was conveying, “Stop it, you’re making her nervous.”

You forced a smile in his direction, reading into his silent message. “Fine.”

Jin adjust himself, pen in hand gesturing towards them. “Mrs. Gloria West , can you please restate your case?” Although you both had the intake form in front of you, you needed her to state clearly what she was here for.

She begins fidgeting, biting her lip tears welding up in her eyes. Damien gently began rubbing her back. “You can do this. This is your story to tell.”

She nods, sniffling, finally looking up and you finally get a glimpse of her face. Her delicate features look worn out, dark circles under her eyes.

Your features soften, and you give her a genuinely soft smile. Handing her a tissue she thanked you softly. Dabbing the corners of her eyes she began, “My,” she licked her lips as if uttering the words brought bitterness to her, “husband has been cheating on me. I found out he has another family.” She reached into her purse pulling out a card that says Happy Father’s Day. “I found it in his underwear drawer when I was putting his clothes away last week.”

Jin followed up. “You’ve previously stated that your husband has claimed you, is this correct?”

“Yes.” She pushed aside the collar of her cardigan exposing the flaring bite marks where fangs met skin.

Pen pausing on paper you forced your jaw to stay closed. You hadn’t really prepared yourself for what claiming really meant. The primal signature was jarring. The two puncture wounds looked poorly scared, the tissue surrounding it somehow still rejecting the mark.

She covered it up again. “I was young and naïve when we first met, just out of high school and didn’t have much experience. He was five years my senior. I didn’t understand what it all meant at the time. I thought the butterflies I got seeing him meant he was my mate. I was hopelessly in love.” Tears brimmed in her eyes again, but she sniffled preventing them from falling.  “He told me I was his mate. I believed him. I let him mark me.” She spoke the words as if they burned her. “We got married three years ago, right after he marked me.”

You were disgusted, stomach unsettled, forced marriage seemed so archaic. Your fist curled under the table. You didn’t understand the depth of what happened in the kind context, but it still irked you. You didn’t let it show on your face though.

Damien was getting restless, clearly irate.

Jin visibly tensed. You see his jaw clench. You fill in for him. “Daniel West, your husband, how did you know he wasn’t your mate?” The word sounded unfamiliar in your mouth. You had heard it spun around before, but never truly knew the meaning. Although you could conclude that it seemed to imply partner.

She looked to Damien and her face seemed to lighten up, dark circles diminishing, as she looked at him. He had the same look at her. Clearly you could tell they were in love. “I found Damien. I knew it was the real thing because it hurt being apart. I couldn’t get him out of my head. Just a touch and it felt electric. I can’t explain it, but I just…knew. I just knew he was it.”

“Is there any other signs of another partner or family?”

“He smells like her.” She swallowed harshly. “He smells like other women too, but her the most.”

“Is there any other factors that are telling? Like photo evidence?”

“No.” You tilted your head considering it over. You couldn’t use smell in court to prove infidelity. You breathed in harshly, slouching forward. How were you supposed to find evidence?

Jin hasn’t spoken the entire time, lost in thought and focusing on the incoming information. “Are there any children?”

She nodded.

“How many? Please identify them.” She goes on to list two children, one three years old and a newborn.  

Jin stared at the Damien for a moment. “I know this is a sensitive question, however, I must ask this. Did you mark him?”

It seems Jin had already predicted Damien’s response as the sound of paper crumpling in Damien’s fist was loud. His fist shook form the strength of his anger. Gloria reached over grabbing onto his leg, and his grip loosened up slightly.

She apologized to him. His fist completely unclenched as both of his hands cupped her face. “No, no, no, honey. Don’t apologize. None of this is your fault. You know that right.”

She closed her eyes, calming and basking in the affection. “I know.”

You blushed yourself, feeling as if you had intruded in an intimate moment. You can’t help but follow your instincts telling you to look at Jin. You feel like you see Seokjin for who he is, not how you’ve constructed him. At the same time you find yourself suddenly reminded—he was different. Stern and cold, eyes empty of all the things that used to make him goofy. It was as if you had lost the dictionary. Unable to translate a language that was once native to you. His quirky awkward fillers and jokes have matured into standards. He holds punctuation in his tone, powerful. Calculating in a way you didn't know he could be. Your eyes follow the curve of his plump lips, the curve of his nose and then the entire profile. It feels intimate.

You pause and wonder if Seokjin has a mate. Did he look at them like that too?

You pause diffusing those thoughts, you shouldn’t be thinking of him that way. Focusing back on the case at hand you know mating is something that cant be proven scientifically. It’s a feeling.

She blushed, taking both of her mates hands into hers and placing them on her lap. With more confidence she turned back to you both. “No. I didn’t know then that it had to be both. Daniel told me that marking me would be enough for the both of us. I didn’t realize it until later. When I brought it up he told me I was wrong, that I didn’t know any better. That people were just trying to put ideas into my head and he knew best. I believed him, until I felt the real feeling.”

“You will have a trail before the elders after this, are you aware of that?” Jin says.

“Yes.”

With a thoughtful pause, Jin smiled reaching out to shake their hands. “That concludes questions for today. Thank you both for your time.”

Reaching out to Gloria, you shake her hand, “You’re very brave for this. We’ll do whatever we can to help.”

She smiled, patting your hand. “Thank you.”

You help escort them to the door and they assure you they know the way out. Shutting the door with a click you find Seokjin hunching over his notes. All sense of comfort he offered earlier and professionalism drained form him.

Eyeing him curiously, you asked, “What’s wrong?”

“This…this…this is worst case scenario.” He says.

“Can’t she just get rid of the mark? Things like this are reversable right? She found her mate,” you say the last word with uncertainty as its unfamiliar on your tongue. Logical solutions are the only way you can navigate.

“No, Y/n. it doesn’t work like that.” Voice accusatory.

You shrink, feeling as he had called you stupid indirectly. His fingers couldn’t stop fidgeting over the papers, unable to look at you. “The mark is permanent and can’t be undone. She’s bound to him, but he wasn’t.” He raises his voice towards the end.

“Why are you getting angry?”

When he looked up at you his eyes are red. “You don’t get it.”

You falter. His words hit hard and ring like a ghost putting you back into your old room. Those words engraved like a scar on your heart. Pulling back the scar you are put back in time.

Pacing more folded clothes in the cardboard boxes you glance out your window. It was a full moon.

You couldn’t sleep so you began packing, you were due to move out the following day.

Standing up, you went to the window, staring at the moon. Your eye follows the bush and thick trees that line the property. The night seemed to be so quiet and clear. You felt suffocated in your room, your thoughts making you claustrophobic. You pushed open the window, carefully to make the least noise as possible. Going back to your boxes you fished out a jacket and put on shoes. You slipped through and hit the grass with a thud. Closing your window behind you, you turn back towards the beginning of the forest.

Suddenly a wave of sadness fills you as you remember how Jin used to always come through the same bushes to see you. Clenching your fist and tucking your jacket tighter over you, you force the thoughts of Jin out of your head.

You push pass the bushes, the light of the moon enough to light your way. You follow a faint overgrown carved out path.  In all truth you had only ventured out a few times into the forest each time with him. Jin had always warned you that it wasn’t safe, but he wasn’t here to tell you otherwise. You could make your own choices. Remembering that there was a small ravine nearby you began heading towards it knowing it was somewhere nearby. The sounds of crickets was the only thing you heard besides the crunching of your shoes on mulch.

The air grew noticeably heavier with a mist and you could hear the soft sound of water running. Heading down a slope you end up at the shore of a riverbed. The water was running gently over the darkened stones underneath, just a bit further down the river picked up, frothing as it hit protruding stones. You dip your hand into the spring water, the cold causing you to shiver.

For a moment you can imagine that it’s just you in the world.

Tomorrow this would be all but a dream.

From across the bed, along the other shoreline, twigs crunch. Ripping your hand form the water you freeze in place.  Scanning the shoreline, you couldn’t see anything. Your mind pictured a thousand things it could be. Even in the dark you could make out red eyes looking at you. The being shifted to an opening on the shoreline before taking on the large silhouette of wolf. Its fur was black, dark as the sky.

You stayed put, afraid to rile it up by running despite all instincts saying to do so. It stepped closer, entering the water and trudged closer to you. You weren’t ready to die. It held your gaze the entire time. As it grew closer the wolf was larger than what you’d expect to be average, it was more comparable to a grizzly bear.

It kept coming closer and your heart even louder in your ears. You lost your balance falling on your ass with a shriek. You weren’t quick enough to recover as it was hovering over you. You could feel its hot breath fanning over you with its heavy breaths. It growled and your muscles tensed in fear. It just hovered over you, you wondered if it was waiting for you to make a move.

Willing your eyes to open, all at once you felt like you had recognized the beast. “J-Jin?”

Sensing your fear, it then whined. Then he is shifting, limbs elongating and spine curving as he growled through the process. You can’t bear to look at him as you hear the sound of bone cracking and popping. The sound having goosebumps pill your flesh.

"What are you doing out here?" His voice was deep and cold, lacking its usual warmth. When you turn to look at him you no longer see a massive wolf but Jin. His eyes were still red and you stare, trapped within the color. It’s the first time you’ve ever seen it. The tattered clothing that had stuck to his previous form manifested in torn pants, but he was shirtless.

Wrinkling your nose. Just when you thought you could get away from him, he manifest. “I can be here if I want. Who are you to say I can’t?”

His wolf hadn’t settled, taking your challenge personal rather than rational. “Its too dangerous.”

“We haven’t spoken in so long and the first thing you do is yell at me.”

His expression softened, but he still appeared stern. “Go home.”

“Really Jin?”

“Go home!”

“Do you really not care about me? What you said to Jimin, is it really true?”

When he remained quiet, you found your answer. You bit your lip, forcing yourself to suffocate the tears.

“You don’t understand.” He heaved.

“Obviously, so why! Why won’t you talk to me!” Your nerves finally snap. Tears were prickling at your eyes regardless of how much you fought to keep them down.

“Can’t you give me some space! You just need to give me space sometimes.”

“No! This isn’t you, you’d tell me everything. There are no secrets between us. I want answers. Is it that easy to you to throw away everything we have?”

He growled and stepped up to you, inches away looking down at you. Your neck was kinked back staring back at him with equal challenge. His nostrils flare as he takes in your sense. His chest rumbled.

“I don’t want you to know! I don’t want you know about that part of me. So stay out of it! Leave it alone and me alone. I don’t need you.”

Feeling so small, it hadn’t occurred to you that he didn’t see you as important enough. You hated how much you had relied on him. You feel like a child whining to a parent. Maybe the girls were right. Jin would never look at you like that. You were an outsider to his real world anyways. “Fine. You know what, you’re right I don’t understand and never will. I see what I mean to you now.” Tears were rolling down your cheeks but you swiped them away as soon as they broke.

“Y/n.” The anger melted away from his being instantly, realizing what he said. He wants to take it all back, but he can’t find the right words. He stepped towards you and you took two steps back. You wanted to get away from him.

“You’ll never have to see me again.” You laughed, but it wasn’t in humor, instead full of bitterness.

“What?”

“I’m leaving.”

“What do you mean leaving?”

“What do you care Jin? Aren’t you getting what you want? You don’t need me. You’ll never have to worry about me getting in your business or caring about you again. I’m moving tomorrow.”

“Goodbye.” You turned away from him. His red eyes imprinting in your memory like a branding. You swore before you turned away you saw tears, but you refused to believe it.

He had made his bed, now he had to lay in it.

When you remained quiet, Jin began packing his stuff quietly realizing his outburst. You can only assume he remembered the same thing.

Sighing heavily he tries to dispel the anger, his eyes flashing back to normal. “We’ll discuss things later.”

You hate that it makes your heart sink. You don’t like that he’s pushing you away. He had done it before, but he wasn’t going to do it again. “Of course I don’t, so explain it to me now.”

He ignores you and makes towards the door. Before he makes it you grab onto his forearm. “Will you listen. Don’t walk away from me.”

His body stiffens instantly, although his chest was still heaving. When he turns to look at you, you let go of him like you had been burned. You crossing your arms over your chest protectively. Knowing he no longer plans to leave you follow up, “Look, I don’t know as much as I thought. Don’t punish me for it. I just want to solve this case as you do.”

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make you feel bad. I just…imagining someone claiming—.“

Your chest deflated too with his reaction it gave you an unspoken conclusion. He had a mate. You should’ve known better than to let your thoughts trail on earlier. Instead you focused on his apology. “We need to work together right? This is our last case here and we can get through this professionally.”

“Can we?”

You smirked, “I can behave if you can.” You straightened up, extending out your hand to him, “Let’s call a truce or something.”

He accepted it, but still held onto it which was something you didn’t expect. “Something?”

“I mean do you have a better status to call whatever this is?”

“Truce implies I hate you. I don’t hate you.”

The way Seokjin looked at you felt like he was truly looking at you. You almost felt paralyzed as you couldn’t look away. His words felt—genuine. But you refused to lean into that, you didn’t want to read into his words too much. You rolled your eyes, unconvinced pulling your hand out of his. “Okay, alright, I said behave”

“Really. I don’t.” Weakly he smiled.

“So truce or not?”

“Okay.” He answered.

“Okay.” You repeat back.

“Good.”

“Yeah.”

“Give me your phone.”

You pulled out your phone and handed it to him. He saved his phone number, calling himself, before handing it back. “Don’t abuse it now.”

You scoffed, nearly choking on your own saliva. Unable to stop yourself from laughing in disbelief. “You wish.”

He genuinely laughed, the high pitch sound unique and squeaky. Turning to leave, he paused in the doorway looking over his shoulder. “Another thing.”

You hummed, looking at him expectantly. You saw the cheeky smirk before it bloomed. “Keep the messaging to during the daylight hours, alright.”

“Seokjin!”

He closed the door quickly behind him, evading your spitfire.

He isn’t sinking back into your life. You aren’t even friends. You both were going to go your separate ways after the internship, and you were never likely to run into him again.

You had nothing to lose.

Truce.

Shutting the door behind you a bit harder than necessary, you toe off your heels and hook your keys up.

Your roommate, Mia, was already sprawled out on the couch. Slumping right next to her and crowding her out. The sounds you emit sounded like a deflating air mattress as you groan.

“Yikes, that bad of a day?” Shuffling to adjust herself again on the couch.

Closing your eyes you nodded. She laughed, clearly not buying the way you played victim. “What did he do today?”

Mia had been a friend you made during college, and quickly became your closets friends. When you both graduated you found yourself needing someone to roommate with while job searching and grad school stuff. You had found out about her being a Kind early on in your sharing of home. She was more surprised to find out that you had already known about it. That’s when you told her about your childhood, leaving out names, all until recently where she was too smart and connected the dots. Wolves and their intuition.

“Okay, first off, not everything isn’t about him. And secondly, how dare you be right about it.”

She laughed, her laptop nearly falling off her lap. You loath her, her and her perceptiveness. She was smart, but sometimes too smart for your own good. “It just—he’s so irritating! I just said one wrong thing today and he exploded. Then we had a truce and get this, he said he didn’t hate me.” Confessing all on your own, you felt accosted just by her silence.

Her eyebrow quirked at that, followed by a cheshire grin. “You two getting along now then? Is that’s what’s upsetting you?”

“No. It’s just—he played the good guy and it made me feel stupid. I have been doing my best and then he comes along and makes me feel—ughh! It’s just this case is stressful. I feel way out of my depths.”” You have your hands in the air scratching at the air.

“Leave then.” She shrugged, stating the obvious solution. She already had let this type of complaining go in one ear and out the other. Since the beginning of your internship you had come home and vented about your day, mostly revolving around him as the topic of choice. How he irritated you that day, or simply breathed the wrong way. Even to yourself, the amount of time he has been able to rile you up lately has become annoying.

“I can’t just leave, you know how hard I worked for this. You know how important this place is. Besides, I need it to graduate.”

“Well then, why were you arguing anyways? What does this have to do with your case?”

“Everything to do with it.”

She nodded. Realizing it must not be within your realm she opens up, “Need insight?”

You shifted on the couch tucking your legs underneath you. “What’s marking or ‘laying claim’?”

She turned to you, “Are you serious?” For the first time in your friendship you saw her blush. She was always forthcoming with sexuality and whatnot, so this was out of character for her.

“Yes.”

“Did he ask you about it?”

You squinted at her, “No, why?”

She cleared her throat, waving her hand, “No, nothing.”

“Well its not PG-13.” She licked her lips.

“Well thank goodness I’m not a virgin maiden in waiting. What is it? You’re stalling.” Her reaction made you infinitely more curious.

“Okay, well honey, when two mates, who love eachother very much—.”

“Oh god, stop it, please be serious for once!”

She laughed. “Fine. It’s a sacred ritual that connects two mates together. Or in layman terms, two soulmates together via a bite mark. It acts like rings? But its more than that. Its hard to explain.”

“Soulmates?” You suffocated the scoff. Out of all things she said to be appalled at. “That doesn’t exist.”

She smiled at you. “They do! You humans just don’t believe it because you’ve corrupted the system.”

“So it can’t it just be anyone? You know, fall in love and just know that person is it, the one?”

She shook her head. “No, it’s this instinctual feeling. This soul connection. You’ll know it when you feel it kind of thing.”

“Ugh, that’s what she said too.” You rubbed at your temples. “I can’t use a feeling as evidence.”

You sighed, “I can’t tell you about the case, but hypothetically if this happened. Hypotheticals only.”

She suffocated a laugh, rolling her wrist in a circle, hand gesturing for you to continue.

“So hypothetically, the client was hypothetically marked by someone other than her mate. What does that mean—hypothetically?”

Her face sobered, “Are you serious?”

You nodded.

Fiddling with her fingernails, she looked genuinely troubled. “How can that even happen?” She mumbled to herself before she turned to you. “I don’t know of any worse punishment. The pain that comes with that either is unimaginable. It’s violation of not only culture, but its inhumane. The human equivalency of forced marriage, but even then that equivalency doesn’t compare how bad it is. Murder, maybe?”

“What would happen to the one who bit the other…hypothetically?”

“Normally, death. There would be a match between the actual mate and the one who bit until death, but times have changed. The punishment is still severe.”

You take pause realizing how serious it all was. You weren’t sold to the idea of love, or soulmates, but being forced in a marriage the idea made you sick. You finally could see why Seokjin was so upset earlier. Sighing heavily you let your head fall back on the couch onto the cushion stared at the ceiling. How could you find evidence against this guy then?

“We gotta make him pay.” Looking towards her. “Do you think a guy who has a separate family would leave a paper trail?”

“You just need to find his social accounts. Cheaters usually have multiple accounts under different pseudonyms. Their downfall though is that most guys are stupid enough to not undo the geo tag or take the photos all in the same place.”

“I’ve already looked into it. He only has one account. It’s pretty generic, nothing telling.”

“But have you?” She gave you this side eye. “He must have a fake account then. Probably all his closets friends follow it, so we just have to find a similar name that seems to be a generic account.” The whole time she had been speaking to you she had been doing the research.

“Done.”

Your jaw dropped. She did that so fast. Could you blame her though, as an IT specialist she knew the ins and outs of things like this.

“You evil genius!” She pulled it back to herself, you scooching to sit next to her so you can watch what she does. Scrolling through, she squinted. “Seems he recently was on this page.” She clicked on link bringing up a page to a club named Fluxx. Scrolling through you both catch a comment under an event from West. The DJ who was playing there apparently was his favorite, him and his boys were going to be there to see it that weekend.  

She turned her laptop towards you. “You’d think he’s in college still.”

“What if…what if I go. I’m sure he isn’t going to just party with his friends. I’m sure he’s going to be there looking for his next victim.”

She shut her laptop, scowling at you. “No. Absolutely not.”

You pout, “Why not? You realize this give me the evidence I need to proof the case.”

“You don’t understand. It’s a club for others. Humans can’t get in here unless you’re someone’s play thing or—.”

“Or what?”

“With someone who is.”

You stare at her expectantly.

“No.”

“Come on!” You whine, tugging at her sleeve.

“No, this is dangerous!” She set her laptop on the coffee table, moving away from you so you couldn’t provoke her. Getting up form the couch she headed towards the kitchen. You sigh following after her. She reached into a cabinet for a mug.

“Don’t treat me like a child.”

She slammed down her mug, and you jumped. You had never seen her upset. She turned to you with a look of disbelief. “Child? This isn’t a game, y/n. You apparently don’t what kind of shit you’re getting into. My kind have to live in the shadows, and do you know what happens in the shadow.” Her comment was rhetoric.

You kept your mouth shut.

“Humans are no longer the superior race in there. Not all kinds are what you think. You’d get eaten alive the moment you let your guard down.”

“I didn’t go through all this trouble to find a good lead to get scared away by the what ifs. Besides, you’ll be there with me, right?”

“They’re not what ifs, y/n.”

“Yes, they are. You went there before and are standing here today.”

“Don’t get smart with me.”

“I’m not. I understand okay! I know you don’t think I do, but I do. I’ve heard it before and I don’t need to hear it from you!”

She turned to look at you with a pointed glare. You stood your ground.

She huffed preparing herself a drink. You stared at her back. For a moment you held doubt. What if she was right. What if you were getting yourself in something bigger than you anticipated. Picturing back to earlier in the day to Gloria and the amount of fear she had regarding her husband had your stomach sinking. The look that Seokjin had, the anger in him, and now hearing of the significance. The sense of justice found itself rooting in you even thicker.

“Alright.”

Pushing off the counter you were leaning on, Mia dropped the spoon she was using to swirl her drink in the sink noisily.

“You’re planning on going anyways aren’t you.”

Painting her with a look of exhaustion and resolve. “I am.”

“How?” she tossed her hands up in the air.

“I don’t know, I always figure things out somehow.”

She picked up her mug pushing past you then picking up her laptop going into her room. She slammed the door.

You slumped back onto the couch. Biting on your thumb. How were you supposed to get in now?

She came storming out of her room thirty minutes later. Rubbing her temples with a look of distress.

“Can’t you just hire a PI or something?”

“No, you yourself said being a kind is a secret. I can’t hire someone to watch him.”

She bit her lip, “Do you have to be this stubborn?”

You chuckled. “Yes. A woman’s life is going to be decided if or not I can prove her husband is a dick. Even if that means putting myself out there to prove it. I really want justice for her.”

“God, I really hate you sometimes.”

You smirked sitting up. “Does that mean you’ll get me in.”

“I swear to God if you get hurt—.”

“We won’t, I won’t.” You rushed towards her wrapping her in a hug. “Thank you, this means a lot. You know I wouldn’t ask something form you if I didn’t mean it right.”

She sighed. “Yes.”

“You owe me big time!”

“Whatever you want darling, the world is ours!”

Finding yourself back at the office after finishing all your classes in the morning. You were exhausted. The week, on top of the internship, had been exam heavy. You found it difficult to raise your head from your desk. Luckily for you, the office was nearly empty including of the other three. All others were at their campus or otherwise. You purposefully came on this day to get your work done.

Your phone pinged, notifying you got a text. With your hand you blindly searched for your phone dragging it so you could look at it form your lap with your head still on the table.

You sat up when you noticed who had texted you. You blink at the ID a few times.

Partner in Crime [2:07 p.m.]: We should meet up to work on the case.

You knew enough to deduce it was Seokjin.

You [2:09p.m.]: Who’s this?

Partner in Crime [2:10p.m.]: Are you serious?

You [2:10p.m.]: I’m at the office now.

Pain in the ass [2: 12pm]: Can you meet me at my school’s library in thirty? The office is nearby. I’ll buy you a coffee.

Location sent.

You contemplate. You just wanted to go home. Deal with the case more after this weekend after going to the club. You want to present all your finding and seal the deal all in one session. However, the thought of coffee was convincing enough to have you texting back.

You [2:20pm]: Okay. Be there soon.

Pain in the ass [2:21pm]: I’ll meet you outside.

You found yourself standing outside of the library half an hour later, staring up at the towering building. This was their library? This looked more like a historical site. Well it explained why the tuition here was so expensive. He went to the ivy school, one of the best, if not the best, law programs in the nation. You eyed things with envy. You had applied for this school too, it was a dream of course. But you suppose going to state university granted you only so much prestige.  

“The clouds telling you something?” You jump when Jin comes up next to you.

You glare at him. He’s laughed. “Sorry, you looked so lost in your thoughts. Didn’t actually think I’d scare you. Here.” He handed you the other coffee in his hand.

You accepted it gladly, fingers feeling frozen, but pause. “You didn’t poison this right?”

“No, that’d be too easy.”

You nearly snort into your cup. “Spoken like a true soon to be lawyer.”

You miss the endearing stare he gives you as you begin walking up the stairs. He quickly catches up with you putting a hand on the small of your back when a large group of students come your way. He guides you up the stairs keeping you close with the abundant of students pouring in and out. You suppressed the squeak you wanted to let out. His hand was large and warm, the touch radiating through your coat. Your mind tells you you should move away, but you don’t. He leads you to the lower floor where to your surprise was just as magnificent as the base floor. The gothic architecture feels almost as if you’re entering a cathedral. The tables were dark oak wood and heavy looking ordered in long rows of five. Green banker lamps were in the center of each table basking the old scratched up wood in golden light.

Leading you to a table secondarily inward, he took a seat next to you.

Finding it odd, you debate on moving, but you neglect to comment on it. He settled into the seat looking none the more comfortable. Settling in you pulled out your laptop plugging it into an outlet underneath the table. You needed a second to re-center yourself. You didn’t like that you instead of revulsion like you expected to, you felt his presence give you a sense of security. It’s all dangerous, the feeling all too close to the ease you used to have with him.

“Have you come across any new leads?” Jin asked.

You quirked you head, having been so lost in your thoughts. “Huh?”

“New leads?”

“Oh, yeah.” You bring it up a on your laptop and show him. “I found his secret Bookface account. It’s even under a different name, Ethan Miller. He must have many identities and more accounts than this one.”

He brought his arm up resting it on the back of your chair, bringing the both of you closer. You flush thinking nothing of it as his thick thigh brushes yours as he leaned in.

“How’d you find it?” He clicks through the photo album. Pictures of ‘Daniel’ and children appear that look very much like him. Children who were not his with Gloria.

“I know people.”

He looked mildly impressed. “I see, if you tell you’ll have to kill me kind of scenario.”

Shrugging with a bit of pride you crossed your arms over your chest and leaned on the desk. Lamely you shot a single finger gun at him. Realizing how lame it was you quickly tucked your finger back into your fist and crossing your arms. When did you do lame things like that ever?  He laughed, and you tried to ignore the embarrassment.

“Anything else?” He was so close to you when he looked up. You couldn’t help but let your eyes flicker down to his lip for a second as he mouthed the words. You quickly brought them back up to his eyes, the dark chocolate color another vortex. Heat rises to your cheeks and he could probably hear your heart picking up in pace. It didn’t help that from how close he was you could smell the cologne he wore, which made you want to lean in and press your face to smell it from his skin. Heat flushes even hotter through you, how brazen of your thoughts were getting.

Remembering he asked you something you answer more breathier than you would like. “No.”

When he straightens up, you were glad he didn’t comment on it. You contemplated telling Jin where you were going, but you keep your mouth shut. You could handle it on your own, all you needed to do was bring the evidence.

You cross your legs attempting to move away from him.

He nodded, taking screenshots before moving on. He finds the photos of his other family just like you did, and the other woman too. He carefully zoomed in squinting at the image of the woman.

“She’s wearing a scarf and in a majority of them.”

“Didn’t take you to be in the fashion police.” That has him snorting a laugh before he goes back to the page. He looked around, finding no one in any of the other rows, you both completely had the basement floor to yourselves. “He must’ve marked her, or newly marked her when they took these photos. She’s trying to cover up the bruising.”

“Is that so abnormal?”

“Well, not necessarily. We just heal rapidly, cuts heal within hours. Marks do take a bit to heal, but it usually heals within a day if cared for properly. But just the way she hiding it and the bruising, It means she’s human. Kinds know marks aren’t meant to be covered up. They’re something sacred and to be worn proudly.”

“So…?”

With his head propped onto his hand he turned to you, eyes boring into you. That feeling arises in your stomach again. The way he was looking at you felt deeper than just a simple glance. You think back to when he said he didn’t hate you. The words still feel impossible.

“Human mates are rare.” Without letting you question it he says, “Bruising could mean it never healed because her body is rejecting him.”  

“Wouldn’t he be feeling some repercussions too? It’s a two-way thing right?”

“Yes, but it seems that he’s not being affected. Gloria would have mentioned illness or signs of hyper aggression.” He scrolls over the images. “You’d expect this kind of behavior from—.” Again he pauses, lost in though.

“From what?”

“A rogue.”

You squint. “English, please.”

He smiles at you. “An exiled wolf. When we don’t have a pack for too long our sense of direction becomes distorted. Signs are aggression, loss of humanity and morality, eventually they lose their its ability to revert.”

“And you think he’s one?”

He leaned back in his seat. “It’s plausible.”

“Let’s go through his account and gather more evidence. I can began transcribing the interview. We can do case search too if we have time.”

He nodded his head. You send him the link to West’s account and begin sectioning out the work. Surprisingly, you had worked quietly next together, no bickering. It was—pleasant.

“How’s school going?” His husky voice breaks you out of your concentration. He was still looking at the laptop and writing down notes.

You hummed. “Getting by, you?”

“Same.” He hums back and the lull begins again. You bite at your lip, curiosity getting the better of you. “Why did you decide to go to law school? Weren’t you going to become a chef?”

He had always told you when he was younger, he wanted to become a chef. “Duty called.”

“Let me guess, pack stuff?”

He nods, not missing the way you said it. “I’m expected to become a council member when I graduate. I’m going to take my father’s position and practice in the kind’s court.”

You didn’t know much about his family, things were always surface when you were younger. Playtime and other things taking precedence. You had no idea his father was a lawyer. You had only spoken to his parents a handful of times. His mother was the one who spoke to you mostly, his father was a stoic man.

“But, your dream?”

“I still cook, I just don’t do it professionally.”

“Do you regret it?”

“No, I’m happy.”

You thoughtful consider his words. It pains you a little to know he gave up his dream.

“How are they, your pack?”

A fatherlike smile comes on his face. “They’re all well, Namjoon is to be the next pack leader. The others are all doing their own thing, but they’re doing great.”

You smile, the fond memories of the boys resurfacing. “I miss them.”

“Why’d you leave then?”

There it is. The conversation the both of you had been avoiding this whole time. You had asked him something so personal and now he was returning it. The implication of the question wasn’t only why you left town, but him. You knew that, both physically and emotionally. You don’t know if you could offer him that though.

Abruptly your smile leaves you. “My dad got a job here in the city. I had no choice.” Your tone was frigid despite how much you wanted it to sound neutral.

“That’s the only reason?” He didn’t buy it. Based on his tone he sounded hurt. Knowing there was another reason. You hated that he could still read you.

You shrug, maintaining your stance. “Yes.”

“Bullshit.” His voice comes out clipped and sharp.

“What other reason would I have Seokjin?” Willing your voice to stay leveled, you begin using a voice you only use in professional settings.

“You left me.” He spoke the pain that he had held within. When you look over to him his eyes are red.

Leaning back in your chair, you crossed your arms over your chest. You wanted to remain unaffected, but you wanted to reach out to him. You felt the urge to touch him, but your anger kept you steady. “I didn’t leave you, you weren’t there. How can you say I left when you weren’t there.”

“You know that’s not true.” He accused, gaze darkening.

“It’s true.”

“I tried, but you wouldn’t answer.”

“That’s bullshit Jin and you know it. For months you ignored me.” Using his words back at him you choked on your words towards the end. You want to say, ‘you didn’t need me’, but the word hung heavy on your tongue, too hurtful even to yourself. You know that you didn’t try to reach out because after what those supposed friends said, it was made true when he just suddenly left. The prioritizing of his pack over you. All your feelings for him were crushed. Heartbreak was easier to deal with when you didn’t have to see their face.

He growls out, “I had things in the pack to handle.”

“Good excuse.” You knew he avoided you for other reasons, it was beginning to urk you that he wasn’t voicing it.

“I couldn’t help it. I was being initiated and had my first complete shift. It was a lot.”

“It’s different and you know it. I—forget it.” You wanted to say so much more, confess how you used to love him. Those feelings feel trivial now, even if they still exist in the present. The realization of the words, even though spoken in your mind had you reliving the pain all over again.

He falters and you almost feel guilty. A darkness spreads over the atmosphere. You spend a moment staring at one another. There is a tension between you two. Yet you can’t deny it’s like magnets. You feel drawn to him despite it all. Always have been. The knowledge of that has you shattering inside.

You stand up. “I’m going to look for a case study.” The wooden chair screeches against the floor. You needed to get away, to cool down. The sound of your shoes echo with the emptiness of the library.

Slinking between the bookcases you keep walking until you are deep within, feeling far enough where you can breathe again. Leaning against a bookshelf you sigh heavily. How come he had this much effect over you still?

Suddenly you feel heat overcome you as Jin suddenly towers over you. Softly his chest rumbles in hushed growls as he caging you in.

“Seokjin, leave me alone.”

When he doesn’t move you attempt to escape, placing your hands on his firm chest and pushing him. Unsurprisingly he doesn’t budge, but he shifts to keep you within his outstretched arms on the bookshelf. His gaze is intense, the red seeming to glow. “No, why do you run away when the conversation gets difficult?”

Humiliation clouds you. “Don’t patronize me.”

“Seokjin I’ve never run, it was you. I stopped chasing when I realized you had other priorities then and I wasn’t one of them. You said so yourself. Simple as that.”

You see him register the memory. His expression turns bitter. “That’s not true.” Gaze narrowed, his hands turn white as he clutches the shelf behind you. “I didn’t ignore you on purpose. Things were complicated and there was a lot I didn’t understand yet.”

“Good excuse.”

“It isn’t!”

“So what?”

“I realized something that—.”

“You didn’t need me.” The words come out of your mouth quietly finishing the sentence for him.  

“No!” he growled.

“Keep telling yourself that.” You bit back the feeling of tears. “What do you gain Seokjin from this, huh? Reliving the past? It’s not then anymore. The us, whatever it was, is not now. And nothing will change that.”

The bookshelf creaked under his grip. “Don’t. Don’t say things like that.”

“What? That I’m no longer that young naïve girl? The one that used to follow you around? The one that used to think you were—.” The word mine dies on your tongue. “I don’t need you anymore and haven’t for a while, face it.”

“Please don’t cry.” He looked at you sadly.

You hadn’t realized you were crying. Attempting to wipe your tears, Jin hand took yours holding it while he caressed your face with the other wiping it away for you.

“Please don’t. I can’t handle it.”

He lowers his head and kissed you. The first press of his lips was gentle but deep. A small whimper escapes you; he rumbles in response pressing you closer to the bookcase. His hand dictates yours onto his shoulders while it wrapped around your waist pulling you close to him. It was making you dizzy with how good it felt.

He pulled away warm breathes of quiet between you two. You slowly open your eyes meeting his fiery ones. The warmness and adoration of it catching you off guard. The boyish loopy smile that followed had your heart melting. He lowered his head, resting his forehead against yours. His lips press against yours again unyielding. You had imagined this before, but this felt better. He kisses your jaw down to your neck. You shiver. The implication of it is not lost on you. He trailed back up finding your lips again in a harsh mesh. With a sigh he pried your mouth open. He moans your name.

Bringing you back to reality. “I—We can’t.”

This wasn’t right on many levels, but most importantly, didn’t he have a mate? Why was he kissing you? You had messed up, messed up big time. How had you caved so easily when he kissed you. You hate that you liked it so much too. You realize from the moment you both met again that the feeling you worked so hard to suppress came back strong. This was a mistake from the beginning. He still makes your heartbeat like it used to.

Seokjin’s arms were still extended towards you. “Why not?”

“I can’t—we can’t.”

You do what you do best. You run. Your heart breaks again for the second time.

Standing outside in line in the dead of fall would have to be the last place you wished to find yourself. The bombing bass thumped through the walls and neon lights outlined the vicinity. Other patrons in line to the club seemed at ease with the near freezing temperature. You suppose its a caveat of being human that your body didn’t run naturally warm. You had been to clubs throughout your college days, but they were far in between. Except this wasn’t any regular club, Fluxx was meant for the underworld. Those of the other kind.

Crossing your arms over your chest you attempt to conserve as much heat as possible. The fire within only kindled by the fact that you are only doing this for the case. The dress you had borrowed form Mia after she had deemed your choice to tame barely covered anything. It was too tight and you were sure that everything underneath was outlined.

Your phone vibrates in your clutch. You step away from Mia, although she was distracted chatting up some guy in the line. You answer it without looking at the ID.

“Hello?” Plugging your other ear with your finger.

“There’s something you need to know.” Jin’s voice comes through. You startle looking at the phone to check if it really was him. After what happened yesterday you hadn’t expected to never speak to him so soon.

Putting it back to your ear. “Can it wait?” You hiss.

“No.”

“What is it?”

“I talked to Yoongi about him being a rogue. It all checks out. I don’t know how much longer before he turns.”

You bite your lip, heart pausing in your chest. You stare at the club for a moment contemplating what you are about to do. You knew what you were doing was dangerous, entering territory still uncharted to you. However, this was the best way to get more proof.

“Y/n? Y/n did you hear me?”

His voice comes back into your ear, bringing you out of your thoughts.

“Are you out right now?”

Form the corner of your eye you notice a bouncer going down the line, eyeing those standing in line. Mia grabs your elbow pulling you back to her. You hadn’t told her what happened yesterday. Unable to articulate it either. She mouthed to you, “Everything alright?”

“Where are you?” Jin asked.

You nodded to her.

“I gotta go.”

“Y/n, wait—.” You hung up on him tucking your phone back in your purse.

The bouncer scanned you over before looking to Mia. The smile that bloomed on his face was a bit salacious. “Go on in ladies.” Mia grabbed your arm pulling you to bypass the line. Going through the entrance, the dark narrow hallway, you focus on your footing as it was hard to see. The deep house thumping grew louder until it opened to a large room. Strobing lights were made opaque by the hazy air, thick with the smell of alcohol and sweat. Bodies were moving to the music as Mia pulled you towards the bar. You were nearly knocked twice by people too drunk to notice or have body awareness.

Mia had already given you the rundown of what to expect. She had spent at least two hours lecturing you on what goes on. These clubs were not just host to one kind, but all. The fact that you were human would send off a few sense and mixing alcohol in the situation it makes things a bit more dangerous. It had already been decided early on that you both would split up.

Mia leaned in at the bar catching the bartender’s attention and ordered for the both of you. Without turning back.

“Spot him yet?”

Scanning the crowd, you look over the bodies, none of them striking familiarity. It isn’t until you scan the private section where the tables are do you find him.

Mia receives the drinks, handing you the soda. Stealthily she looked over spotting the area of where you were looking.

“I’m not getting good vibes Y/n.”

You nearly snorted into your drink. “It’s a club of course you don’t. This place is grimy and full of fuck boy energy.”

Her lips lift in a smile, but it doesn’t stay. “I’m serious.” Biting her lower lip in uncertainty, leaning in she spoke into your ear, “Are you sure about this?”

“Yeah.” An important detail you left out was telling her that he was a rogue. You knew that just like Jin she would talk you out of it. To her he was just a douchebag and you were just an ordinary girl hitting on him.

“I’ll come find you. Don’t do anything stupid okay.”

You nodded. She disappeared into the crowd weaving into the swaying bodies dancing seamlessly, leaving you at the bar.

You spotted him leaning into a woman, holding her by the hips and grinding to the beat. She wasn’t any woman you had found on his social media before. You snuck photos pretending to take selfies then going through a few other apps. Seeing him move away from her at the change of the song you took your cue. Moving through the dance floor you approximated yourself. Your heart was beating in your fingertips, fist tightly clutching at your drink. Steps beside him you went into action. Stumbling slightly in front of him, you spilled your drink on his black slacks. He growled as soon as the cold liquid spilled all over him.

Trying to swipe off the drink, “What the fuck!”

“Oh my god, I’m so sorry!” You played up to the image of innocence and a naïve human.

He paused in his attempt at brushing off the liquid. “A human. What are you doing here sweetheart?” When his eyes meet yours, they don’t just look they linger. The girl he had been speaking to completely forgotten. His eyes flicker down from your face to your body, lingering in erogenous zones before meeting your eyes again. Pretending you didn’t notice, you suppress the urge to smile knowing he’s playing into it.

Now that you were closer you couldn’t deny that the guy was attractive. It made sense how he was able to play so many. His tousled hair was dark and silky. His eyes were piercing and intimidating.

Seokjin’s words ringing in your ear again. Don’t know how much longer we have until he turns. Why did you have to think of him now at all times.

Touching his leg over the stain you squeezed it suggestively still pretending innocence of attempting to clean it. “I’m so sorry. I’m such a clutz.”

“Hold on princess. Take me to dinner first.” He grabbed your hand, but kept it over his legs.

You couldn’t explain it, you felt his touch turning nausea within you.

“Can I pay you to get it cleaned?”

“This thing? I got twenty more, its fine.”

You leaned in, putting your hand on his chest. “Is there another way I can repay you?”

That had him quirking his brows before a twisted grin bloomed on his face. “Got any ideas babygirl?”

You leaned in, playing with a button on his button up. “I can think of a few wolf boy.”

He growled clearly taking on the challenge. “My names Daniel and don’t forget it baby girl.”

He leaned in to capture your lips but you turned to the side. You whispered into his ears, chuckling, “Don’t tease me baby. you’re going to bring the beast out in me.”

Pretending his words were stimulating, you giggled, tossing your head back. Biting your lip you gave him a doe eyed look, “Let’s take this somewhere else.” Blinking up at him, “Please.”

He took your hand leading you through the crowd. You didn’t have time to search for Mia in the crowd, but you had hoped she saw you. He moved towards the back towards an exit door. He pushed open the door you were pulled out into the back alley. As soon as the door closes the noise of the club softened, and Daniel’s labored breathing is the loudest sound. Fog had settled in over the city, and you could see a group of guys lingering just at the entrance, the ember of their cigarette light.

Stepping closer to you he caged you against the damp brick wall. His overwhelming smell of alcohol was suffocating as he leaned in with a smirk on his lips. He leaned in close enough that his breath fanned over the side of your face. Moaning and humming, “You smell like a bitch, hard to believe your just human baby girl.”

“I’ve always had a bit of wild in me.” You smirked.

Throwing his head back as he laughed, then lowering his head following with a groan. He bit the bait. He presses himself closer to you, enjoying the soft curves of yore body against his. Leaning in to speak with hot breath into your ear, “I can tame you. You’d like it if I’d put you in your place right.”

Goosebumps pimpled over your whole being, except it wasn’t because of him. Something changed in the air. Your heart began beating faster in your chest, like a radar beeping when a target was nearing. Breaking eye contact with Daniel you turned towards the alley where your instincts were indicating something was coming. In turn you exposed your neck to him. Daniel rumbled contently in appreciation at your action. He leaned in sniffing your skin, trailing his nose along the column. The action having your stomach twist in a sudden nausea.

The radar in your chest pinged its loudest as through the dense, grey fog you saw red eyes. A shadowed figured, large and imposing, began taking form of the owner of the red eyes. They were heading towards you at a face pace like when a predator locked in on its prey. A harrowing growl comes from the shadow sends a shiver down your spine. Daniel was so lost in your scent he didn’t realize the figure coming at breakneck speed.

When the figure was close enough you finally caught a glimpse of the shadow.

In a whisper, “Jin.”

Fire burned in his eyes, as he struck like a missile. It all happened in a blur of motion; Daniel was ripped from hovering over you. The vicious growls that came from both beings was terrifying. Jin’s anger had always been cold and blunt. You had only seen it once before, but even then, that time feels minute to what happened in front of you. You had never seen him fight before. Fist struck and the sound of bone cracking was like thunder. It was gruesome.

Daniel lost his balance, his eyes turning red as well. Their heavy breathing steamed around their mouth, their fangs elongated to their lower lip. Daniel twitched seemingly resisting shifting fully. However, Jin was the larger of the two, his body partially shifted. His muscles bulged against the fabric of his clothes. The buttons of his dress shirt barely maintained against this broad chest. His sleeves were rolled up, veins pulsing against his muscular forearms. He was out for blood.

“What the fuck man! Get your own bitch!” Daniel growled at Jin, still maintaining his goal of getting you. When Daniel’s eyes shifted over to you, Jin charged him as the scent of lust filled the air. He grabbed at Daniel’s throat, moving backwards until he slammed him to the wall. He held him growling out words you couldn’t make out until he felt Daniel fall unconscious. His heart was still beating. Released him and let him slump to the floor, hovering over him like a predator.

“Jin.” The quiet whisper of his nickname has him coming back down to earth. He whipped around finding you leaning against the wall, knees weak. Your eyes were wide taking in his face. His eyes the deepest red you’ve ever seen, fangs over his lips, and body near feral. However, as soon as he sees that you, it dropped from him and he looking more like a puppy. He hurried over to you. Instead of greeting he grabbed your chin and angled your head to the side to get a glance at your neck. He breathed a sigh of relief. He was still more wolf than man at the moment. He leaned forward and whined. Your heart stopped in your chest. His body was warm sending a shiver down your spine. His scent was comforting. You hate how good it feels, you hate that your body relaxed instantly when he came to save you. As if you already know everything was going to be alright. To trust and rely on him felt so foreign, but so familiar.

He pulled away but you were so close you could make out his eyelashes individually. He growled, “What were you doing!”

Suddenly what you had been trying to forget comes back full force. Why was he acting like he cared so much? You curled in on yourself, the pettiness returning. “I could’ve handled myself.”

“Oh really? You were just going to let him mark you?” He seethed with an anger like wildfire.

You tried to remain indifferent. “I don’t see what the problem is. It’s just a bite, it’ll heal. I’m not one of you.”

Ignoring him, you pulled your phone out from your pocket showing him that you had a recording going. “I got it.” You pressed pause and saved the file. You hadn’t realized your hands were shaking, the adrenaline of it all still coursing through you.

His brows furrowed. “What?”

“I recorded everything. I even took pictures of him with other women. We can use this as evidence.”

“Y/n?” The moment shatters and you search for the familiar sound of your name.

You see your friend stumbling drunkenly through the door out into the empty alleyway.

“I’m here to save you!” For being a kind, her alcohol tolerance was low. She turned towards you, squinting her eyes. “Whoa, who’s the hot guy? Was I interrupting something.”

You pushed Jin away from you slipping past him to support her as her ankle kept rolling due to the uneven asphalt.

Jin didn’t bother smirking or returning the understanding. He was still beyond pissed.

She looked down to the passed out man, “Holy shit.” She looked to Seokjin, seeing the remnants of his partial shift as he hadn’t bothered to transition back. There was a silent understanding of one another between them as he could tell she was the same as him.

“You were supposed to keep watch, how could you get drunk?”

“I didn’t mean to, I was feeling really nervous about all this. I needed to calm my nerves, so I had a few drinks.”

“We’ll talk in the office.” You directed your words to Seokjin before you began walking away with Mia.

“No, I’m taking you home.”

Mia wiggled her eyebrows. “Can you stay forever?”

You shushed her, bewildered by her behavior. The intense glare he was giving you had you agreeing. “Fine.”

Walking towards his car in silence. She squinted, then her eyes then widened thinking she was whispering to you, “Oh my god is he the one you’ve been talking nonstop about.”

You hush her. “Shut up.”

Through the walk Jin had shifted himself back. A black Audi RS7 beeped as Jin unlocked his car. Mia whistled, “He’s rich.”

“Mia!” You whisper yelled at her. “Please, behave!”

She nodded holding her hands up in an apology. “I’ll behave. I’ll behave.”

You slip into the back with Mia. Her head falls on your shoulder. You gave him your address. He presses the car to start and pulls away. Not long your friend falls asleep, her head falling asleep on your shoulder. You caught him looking at you a few times through the rear-view mirror, but you couldn’t bring yourself to say anything.

Pulling in the parking lot of your complex, Jin got out first then opened the door for you. He helped you with Mia and supported her up.

Going to the first floor of your apartment complex you made sure Jin was following you with Mia. Shoving the key in your door you let him in, leading him through your apartment to her room. He laid her down onto her bed. You began helping take her shoes off, Jin leaving to go to the living room. Taking a moment to help her clean up and ready for bed. She smiled at you partially awake, partially asleep.

“What?” You smiled back.

Giggling, “He likes you too.”

You froze, staring at her incredulously before you played it off as she was too drunk to know what she was talking about. “You’re drunk go to sleep.”

She shook her head. She grabbed your hand staring you directly in the eyes. “No, I’m sure.”  

“He already has a mate.”

Her eyebrows squinted. “No he doesn’t. He doesn’t smell like it.”

You refrained form rolling your eyes. “You wolves and your weird olfactory fixation.”

She sighed then let go, allowing her eyes to close as she fell asleep. You remained crouched by her bed, trying to decipher her words. Jin, didn’t have a mate? And liked you? She must mean that he tolerated you, civil at most. The kiss the other day meant nothing, you were sure of it. It was spur of the moment, high stress and you both didn’t know what you were doing.

She was drunk what did she know.

Standing up with a click to your knees you groaned, you were exhausted. The adrenaline finally wearing away of what happened earlier. Seeing Jin standing in your living room was awkward. He was looking at the photos on the wall. Specifically staring at a photo of when you were younger and Jin was also in it. You both looked so happy, with paint on both of your faces and white shirts.

You hesitate, weirdly feeling as if you were caught with something you should be. “Kinda hard not finding a picture of the old days without you in it.”

He looked at you, putting his hand down from touching the edge of the frame.

When he says nothing you clear your throat, “Thank you.”

He turned towards you, sticking his hands in his pockets, humming in acknowledgement.

“I’ll format all the recordings and photos for the—.”

He cut you off. “You looked happy here.” He pointed to the photo next to the one he was touching. It was of you and a few friends at the beach. It was taken the last year of college.

You smirked. “Hey, I know how to have fun. I’m not all business.”

He smirked, “Would’ve fooled me.” You knew he was poking fun. This time you enjoyed it. Turning to you. “You even turned our night off into a work night, at a club no less.”

You couldn’t argue there, in steading biting your bottom of your lip. He follow the motion before looking up. Clearing your throat you changed the subject.  “He said that I was his mate.”

His whole body stiffened. “Impossible.” He crossed the room closer to you, just stopping a foot away.

You looked up at him, the sudden hostility throwing you off. He scanned you over once more. “Are you sure you’re alright? He didn’t touch you?”

“No.” You fought off the blush that threatened to rise to your cheeks. The attentiveness he was giving you was doing things to your heart that you promised yourself you wouldn’t let happen again. You flush suddenly remembering how soft his lips feel.

Nodding seemingly distracted with his thoughts. “I’ll look into that.” He began making his way towards the door and you followed. He stood outside your doorway.

He hesitated before nodding, as if he had contemplated something. “Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.” You returned the words in a soft whisper.

He began walking away towards his car.

“Jin.”

He turned around.

“How’d you know where to find me?”

He paused, his face clearly. Your heart nearly stopped in your chest when a smile, an expression you haven’t seen on him. Jin looked like his old self.  “I just went where the wild things are. I knew I’d find you there.”

You laughed, “I hate you.”

A smirk came back to his lips. “Don’t go soft on me now, Y/n.”

You watched him slip into his car before going inside. Alone with yourself you felt unsettled. Lately, it had been happening more. You chalked it up to being stressed, but stress was a constant in your life. This emotion was blaringly obvious to you, but you didn’t understand. Why did him leaving leave a hint of sadness.

“You sure?”

“Yeah, totally. I’ll catch up with you soon.”

Logan pulled a face saying he wasn’t convinced. The others had already gathered their stuff and were heading towards the elevators. Yoongi suddenly threw his arm around Logan’s shoulders. “Let’s go. I need a drink.”

You couldn’t help but smile biting back laughter. Yoongi was a man of few words, but he always knew when to insert himself.  

You turn back to your desk when they’re out of sight. In all truth you didn’t want to go. You wanted peace, and despite wanting to follow the social cues it was the last thing you needed right now.

Accompanied by the lone light from your desk, the silence of the office greets you in full embrace. The electronic whorl of central air kicking on. You busy yourself with “last-minute” paperwork you had purposefully withheld on doing, knowing this celebrating was coming. The case had gone incredibly well, it was easy to prove the divorce with your added evidence. It was set to go to secondarily trial within the kind’s court. You just needed to give yourself enough time to know they were out of the building and you could go home.

“Y/n?”

You looked over your shoulder. Seokjin stood there, you could see wear of the day on him but it somehow painted him like oil paint. His hair was disheveled, and the top buttons of his white button up were undone.

“I forgot my wallet.”

You hum. It’s a bit awkward. Watching him round the desk to his in silence. Ever since you had turned in the case over to Yoongi, you had distanced yourself from him. There had been no incentive to not go because of him. It had been a looming idea over your head though that after this you weren’t going to be seeing him.

He held up his wallet, “Found it.”

“You found it.”

He swallowed tucking it in his pocket. He rounded the desk standing just near yours. His hand was clenched in a fist, words on the tip of his tounge.

“Well, it was great working with you Y/n.”

Standing up you extend out your hand. Staring at it for a moment his eyes soften taking yours in his.

“The truce was sufficient after all.” He joked.

“Don’t get too soft on me now.” You joked back.

He smiled. The handshake had long outlived itself, but you still held his and he held yours.

“Well, this is goodbye.” When you tried letting go his grip tightened. “Jin?”

“I can’t. I can’t keep pretending.”

“Pretending?”

“Pretending I’m okay with you walking out of my life again. Pretending that I’m not effected by you. I can’t. I can’t handle it for the second time.”

His logic was flawed. You didn’t allow your heart to pick up pace, fall into his words. “What do you mean? You said you didn’t need me.”

“I lied. I never meant what I said then. I never wanted to hurt you or push you away.”

Your eyes flicker about his face, looking for signs of deception but couldn’t find it. “Then, why did you?”

“I couldn’t control it, I couldn’t control my wolf. I didn’t want to hurt you.”

“Hurt me? Jin, you wouldn’t have hurt me.”

“No, I would have. I couldn’t control it back then, the urges were too intense. I’m weak when it comes to you.”

“You can’t mean that.”

“I do though. I was weak, and whenever you would come near me it became harder to control. The night I found you I couldn’t think straight. Now though, I can’t deny it anymore, I know what I want. And I want you.”

“What do you mean? Don’t you have a mate, what are you talking about?”

“What are you talking about?”

“Well don’t you?”

“I’m not seeing anyone or have claimed anyone—yet.”

You pausing looking at his distraught face.

“Oh.”

“Oh?”

“You don’t?”

“No.” His touches were romantic.

“Well I still don’t see what this conversation has to do with me.” , “Look, I’m not here to get mixed up in whatever.”

“Are you really that oblivious? Do you really not see it?”

“See what?”

He groaned rubbing his hands over his face. “Y/N, you’re killing me here.”

“It’s you. You are my mate.”

Everything froze around you.

Your hands trailed up his chest to wrap around his neck.

“My mate.”

“What?” You freeze. Attempting to put all the pieces of the puzzle together none of it makes sense to you. “You said so yourself humans can’t be mates.”

“I didn’t know how to tell you. You aren’t bound by the same instincts or rules that I am. I was worried, I thought it was only me who felt something. But it’s you, always has been.”

He pulled you closer, and you didn’t fight him.

“Please, I’ll tell you everything, but I need to know. Do you feel the same?”

You swallowed hard. “I do.”

His body melted. “Do you mean that?”

You rolled your eyes. Your hands were around his neck, pulling him down and your lips crashing onto his even before he could finish that sentence. The sudden softness in the midst of the charged tension had you even more sure that you wanted this. The electricity just a kiss from him confirmed it all. You did feel the same way, have for a long time. He reciprocated gripping the sides of your waist and lips moving in tandem with yours. All the built-up tension from before exploded as your tongue brushing against his.

You push him away needing to breath. Tucking his head into your neck he presses kisses into your skin not wanting to part from you. “Why were you so worried? Didn’t you know that I was your mate before?”

“No, we can only begin to find our mates after we’ve fully shifted.“

Finding a place between your neck and collar he nipped at the flesh causing you to moan and shiver. Appreciating the sound he dug his hand deeper into your hair angling your head so he could access it better. “I knew it was you for sure after I shifted, but you were human and I didn’t understand. I had always been told that a mate couldn’t be human. But its been you all along. My elders had tried to talk me out of it, they had tried to keep me away from you. It didn’t help that I had so much to learn after shifting. It didn’t change anything, I kept looking for you. From the first time I found myself in your closet, I was too young to understand destiny, but its always been you.”

You didn’t realize how much you wanted to hear those words from him until he admitted it.

“Why? Why were you so mean.”

“I couldn’t get your attention otherwise.”

You giggled into eachother mouth. “Dumbass, all of this could have been avoided.”

He pinched at your side causing you to shriek.

“Let me take you home.” His voice is low and sweet, and drips like honey.

It takes a second to register what he said, awestruck by how much the words feel common place. “Okay.”

He chases your lips before pulling you along with him. “Wait! I need to get my stuff.”

You laugh at the whine that comes form him as you collect your things form your desk. When you turn around he has his hand extended and you tangle your hand in his. You can’t get the smile off your face. The next movements are rushed as you find yourself in his car. His hand tangles back in yours as soon as he’s in the drivers’ seat.

It takes all about fifteen minutes to get to Jin’s apartment. The moments in between getting there were filled with tension as his hand no longer was just content holding yours but clenching over your thigh and kneading the flesh. Upon reaching his unit he fumbled with the code for a few seconds. When he finally had you inside he pressed himself to you. He no longer appeared to be completely human. His fangs were extended, eyes gleaming red, and he at you like a man starved. He rolls his hips to your center, letting you feel the evidence of his erection tight against his slacks. “Tell me what you want. Anything you want, you can have it.”

“Jin.” You moaned at the feeling of him pressed against your center. You wanted all of him, but you didn’t know how to voice it all. You wanted to feel his weight on top of you, feel him within you and to hold him against you. You wanted more than just that though, but words felt unfulfilling besides his name.

“You really don’t realize what you do to me.” He grabbed under your thighs lifting you up so that your legs rested over his arms while he supported you against the wall. He grinded into you again, his hot breath fanning over your face before he sloppily kissed you.

“You turn me into a beast.”

He shifted so that your legs were wrapped around his waist and he held onto you tightly as he moved towards his bedroom. It all happens so quickly. You were pressed down on his bed with him hovering over you. He tugged at your shirt silently asking for permission to remove it which you give him happily. He pulled it off you delicately, as if you were an art piece he was afraid of breaking. He reached behind you an unhook your bra, tossing it.

He stared for a few moments. You wanted to cross your arms over your chest but he stopped you.

“Beautiful.” He swallowed harshly. He leans down trailing his nose along your sternum before nuzzling at your breast. His hand trailed up the side of your body before reaching your breast and kneading the flesh. His thumb traces over your nipple until they pebbled. With the other his mouth sucked marked into your flesh before taking your nipple into his mouth. You release soft gasp at the gentle pleasure. He switched showering each breast with kisses and small bites until they were both marked.

He propped himself up as he moved his mouth down from your chest to your stomach, caressing your sides. He moved until he was nestled between your legs. Sitting back on his heels he reaches for the waistband of your skirt again asking for permission. Intoxicated on the feeling you nod at him lazily. He pulled it down landing somewhere with your other clothes.

He spread your legs wider fitting himself between your legs. You were so wet that the fabric of your panties stuck to you. Using the slick he traced his finger over your slit, focusing on your clit. Your back arched off the bed, bowing towards the ceiling. It was a simple touch, but you were hypersensitive to his touch. With his face between your legs he looks deliriously in bliss.

The dichotomy of his nature made him an anomaly. He was domineering but tender in each of his approaches. Each motion was made with love, but eagerness to feel you. No partner you’ve had before had been so attentive, trekking your body as it was meant to be explored and learned.

“Shit, Y/n, you’re so wet. Is this all for me?”

You gasped his name when he leaned in and pressed a kiss to your clit. He chuckled, “Is my name the only thing you can say now?”

You flushed, “Stop teasing me.”

He pressed a kiss to your knee soothing the teasing.

“Fuck, you smell so ready for me.”

“Please.” You pleaded breathlessly.

“Just a taste, please.”

You nodded threading your hands through his hair. He hooked his fingers in your panties and pulled them down tossing them somewhere in the room. Yanking you forward and closer to him he spreads your legs for him putting you on full display. Kissing up your thighs moving closer to your center. When he places a kiss on your mound before he begins to gently. He sighed against your folds. “Delicious.”

He taste you longer than just a sample as he buries his head between your legs. The sounds of your moans and mewls awaken the cavernous part of him. He growled, the sound sending shivers down your spine and making you even wetter.

“Jin!” you gasp, as he eats you out. When he pushes a finger inside you can’t help but tighten your grip on his hair. It felt so good, the stretch was sending your sensitivity to overdrive. It has been a long time since you’ve had sex with someone, but your cunt was accepting his finger easily. He worked you up and slipped another finger inside you, the stretch causing you to screw your eyes shut. Letting out a pained cry of pleasure and a bit of sting from the stretch.

“Doing so good for me Y/n.” His fingers moved to spread you open, to let him in. He watched you from between your legs as he increased his pace when he felt you relax a bit around him.

He was driving you crazy, the sounds he was admitting as if he was enjoying it more than you was such a turn on. No one had ever made you feel this way, as if he wasn’t just touching your body but your soul.  Your pressing your hips upwards, feeling your end coming near. Your pussy clenches around his finger when he keeps stroking that one spot within you. In combination with his lips on your clit and him finger fucking, you had never felt so much pleasure before.

“I’m—.” Your body tenses and you can feel yourself just on the edge.

“Come for me.” His words commanded you and like a band you snapped. Your walls pulsed around his finger as he kept you through your orgasm. He pulled his fingers out of you, licking them clean. When he seems your release dripping down from your entrance he leaned down licking it up. He pressed his tongue inside you. The action surprising and jerk, but you couldn’t move away. His tongue moved languidly and rhythmically within you until he was content. He continued to lap of your sweet release until you pushed him away.

He crawled over you. “So good for me. Fate couldn’t have chosen a better mate.” His words were possessive but you didn’t mind it. The word mate fell off his lips so easily.

You came down from the high gradually, chest heaving, and eyes

You see that he was still hesitant to let it through. You reached up cupping his face, gently tracing your thumb. “Let go.”

“I can’t. I don’t want to hurt you.” He peppers kisses along your collarbone.

Your fingers make quick work of his shirt. You pause to admire his broad chest. It had been .

He grabs your hand before you reach for the button of his pants.

“Do you really know what this means. Know what I mean when I say you’re my mate and want you?”

“Yes, mark me. Claim me. I want you. I want all of you.”

“Even if it means forever?”

“yes.”

He allows you to undress the rest of him, he kicks off his pants and underwear and he’s completely bare before you.

His endowment makes your thighs clench. His cock was hard, thick and throbbing, the tip ozzing.

Coming down to his elbows he fits himself snuggly between your thighs, cock brushing your pussy. He reaches between you gathering your slick before spreading it over his cock. He teases your pussy by teasing your entrance, and with your slick he coats his cock with it.

“I’m going to fill you with my cum y/n. Knot you so none of it spills out.” He rubbed your hips. “You’d look so beautiful swollen with my pups.”

You couldn’t help but tremble, excitement filling your veins. You wanted to be sated, to feel him inside you already.

“I want it Jin.”

‘Anything for you, my love.”

That was the last warning you got before he was pressing into you. He watched your face as he filled with you with this thick length. You cried out, as you fisted the sheet under you. “Oh my god.”

His grip tightened on your hips enough you were sure they were going to bruise later. He was trembling just as much as you were. Slowly sinking in you he pumped until he was full seated inside you.

“Holy shit, this is way better than I’ve ever imagined.” He paused allowing you to adjust to his size.  

When you shifted against him he took it as a cue to finally move. He pulled out almost the full way before he was sliding back in slowly. It drew out a choked moan from the both of you. His length dragged against your walls hitting that spot each time.

“Harder, please, harder!” You cried out. You trusted him enough to know he would keep his strength in check. You knew he could crush you, as lifting you earlier seemed like nothing to him.

The pace was gentle until he picked up a merciless pace. Each powerful thrust pushed him in deeper to you. You were quickly unraveling approaching your second orgasm in record time. The sensation of everything was addicting as you lost yourself in the pleasure. Tears built in the corner of your eyes.

He mouthed at your neck murmuring, “My mate. My sweet little mate, so good for me. Taking me so well.”

Nearing your orgasm you began trembling in his embrace. “Come again for me, my love. Give it to me.”

You clenched around him, shattering around his cock and in the same moment he sunk his fangs sunk in between your neck and shoulder. The pain meshed with the pleasure into an addictive eliquer that flooded your system.

He kept going. “Too much Jin!”

Licking clean the marking he pulled away from your neck. He pressed your legs up into your chest. He could see his cock going in and out of your swollen lips. He kept pounding into you, somehow reaching deeper into you. “I’m going to fill you up, love. Do you want it baby?”

You nodded. “Give it to me.” Tears were spilling form your eyes from the overstimulation.

With a final slam of his hips his length swelled inside you spilling his seed within you. When you expected it to end his length was still swelling at the base.

“Jin, what’s happening?” Your nails dug into his shoulders.

“Shhh, baby, its okay.” His mouth slipped back over to your neck, kissing over the fresh mark. He peppered you with affection as his hands soothed your flesh. He relaxed your legs until they wrapped around his waist holding you close.

Just when you thought you couldn’t take anymore the knot stopped swelling. You heaved, panting slightly from the painful stretch.

“You did so well.”

You smiled, pulling him to your lips to kiss. The way he was looking at you as if you were his world had you reaching up to cover your face.

“What just happened?”

He stilled, “Do you regret it?”

You pulled your hands away form his face. “No, no, no.” He easily succumbs when you pull him closer to you. You rub your nose against his back and forth, wanting to return the affection. “It was perfect.”

He flushed crimson.

 You spend hours after within eachothers embrace, even when his knot swelled down. You talked, whispered words of affection to eachother and fell into eachothers embrace again. Like the first time his touch is gentle, he praises the moon for bringing him to you. He leaves no part of you untouched, and you his.

You feel at home for the first time in a long time.

When the sun rises, you wake in his arms, head in the crook of his neck, as he held you tightly to his chest. Bodies still bare, you both felt there was no need to cover, he had his hand over your hip. Breathing in the scent of him and . The silence doesn’t feel uncomfortable. The sound of his heartbeat in your ear was calming.

Slowly pulling away from his neck you reach up and caress his face. With your thumb you trace under his eye and cheek with a butterflies touch.

“I love you.”

He smiles. “No. I’m supposed to say it first.”

You quirk a brow at him. “Who says so?”

He opened his eyes, the trails of sleep still evident. “I do. I love you, always have.” He captures your lips in his.

“You stayed.”

You pulled away. “Of course, I would.”

He smiled. “I know, but to have you here. In my bed. Next to me. It all seems like I’m still dreaming.”

“Oh my god, you’re so cheesy, you dork.”

“But you like it.”

Giggling as he peppers kisses all over your face you manage to worm out of his embrace. You jump out of bed. Taking his dress shirt from off the floor you toss it over yourself buttoning up a few buttons. “Don’t sour the sweetness too soon, wolf boy.” You let the last word roll but with no real malice. You know the word will rile him up.

From the bed he watched you. He had never seen anyone more beautiful. You had his heart that was for sure. He tossed the blanket off of himself chasing after you. “You take that back.”

You giggled running down his hall and out of sight with him chasing right behind you.

Even after the wildest journey, some things in life, like home, just won’t change.

[cafedanslanuit]

[ k i n k t o b e r ]  d a y   15    -   masterlist

↪ character: aizawa shouta [boku no hero academia]

↪ tags/warnings: +18, female!reader, punk/rock singer!reader, face-fucking, references to brat taming, light!brat reader, semi-public sex

↪ a/n: ahhhhh, i had this idea for so so long. punk/rock singer and aizawa have been living rent free in my mind for some weeks now <3

↪ featured playlist:

— bad reputation - joan jett

— paradise city - guns n’ roses

— hot for teacher - van halen

You took a second look at your broken fishnet, your fingers tracing the fabric. Memories on how it broke filled your mind making you smirk to yourself. You smoothed your faux leather skirt and stood up from your crouching position, looking at the other people on the stage.

“We’re good to go?”

The rest of the band nodded and you smiled. Passing a hand through your hair, you tapped the microphone twice and greeted the audience. They weren’t as enthusiastic or wild as the one you were used to, but after a long argument with your band you had agreed to accept performing in a higher-class bar. ‘It’s good money’, they had said. And they weren’t wrong, it definitely was better money than your regular shows at an underground bar gave you, but you felt like a caged bird. People with fancy shoes holding expensive drinks were looking at you like some sort of exhibition. And it kind of was. It was 80’s night for a reason.

The guitarist started the known riff and you did your best to put on a good show.

“And I don’t give a damn about my bad reputation…”

It was almost unnerving how people were still sitting down, shoulders slightly moving as they listened to you sing. You tried not to roll your eyes at them. Just one hour, you told yourself. One hour and you’re out of here.

You were in the middle of your fifth song and third beer when you started having fun. Your leather jacket was left behind on the floor and you were play-flirting along with the bassist, putting one hand on his shoulder as you sang to him.

“Take me down to the paradise city, where the grass is green and the girls are pretty,” you sang along with your longtime friend. You laughed at your antics and then went back to the center of the stage. For once, you didn’t care the audience was still sitting down. Fuck them. You were having fun enough for all of them and were going to take their money at the end of the night.

Suddenly, most people started looking at the club entrance. Imitating them, your eyes darted there as well, and saw a group of men and women making their way to a big table. You recognized most of them as they were pro-heroes, but wondered what they were doing there. A black haired woman put a birthday party on her head and you assumed it was her birthday. Your eyes kept focusing on every hero in the group until they stopped at a familiar face. A familiar, tired face, whose eyes were widened like a deer caught in the headlights. You winked at him and then looked away.

The song continued as you interacted with the band, rattling your hair as you did so, and twirling just enough for your skirt to rile up but don’t reveal anything. You never expected to see Aizawa again in a place like this, and definitely not tonight. You looked over at his table again and saw him back to his normal state, unamused eyes and just watching all his coworkers interact. He probably didn’t want to be there, and a part of you wanted to keep messing with that.

Before they could change to the next song, you asked the band for a particular one. They went with it, the drum solo filling the club as you propped up your right leg on one of the speakers, platform boots showing off. The guitar followed on the solo and you looked again at Aizawa, who now had an irritated look on his face directed at you. His friends were looking at the stage with a smile, ignoring his friend’s stare. You just smiled back.

“Wait-- wait a second man, what do you think the teacher’s gonna look like this year?” you asked your bassist.

You couldn’t suppress the cheeky grin on your face as you sang. You tried your best not to look too much at that particular table, instead you moved around the stage, probably doing one of your best interpretations of the song. You grabbed the unused microphone stand and used it as support as you crouched down singing the chorus.

“Got it bad, got it bad, got it bad, I'm hot for teacher. I've got it bad, so bad, I'm hot for teacher.”

For the second time during the song you looked at Aizawa again and almost felt yourself getting wet from the look he was giving you. It was a mix of incredulity, anger and dominance that riled you up even more to keep on teasing him.

Faster than you had wanted to, the song came to an end, leaving you more hot and bothered than you had wanted to. The band kept on playing the rest of the songs planned for the night and you didn’t look at the table again, just focusing on finishing the set as fast as you could.

Your plans of going to the underground bar with the rest of the band went away when they decided to stay there to share a drink for a while. You stuck your tongue out at them and said your goodbyes.

The city streets were empty, but you paid no attention to that. You walked to the alley behind the club and lit up a cigarette. You watched the smoke slowly come out of your lips, dissipating on the cold air around you.

“That thing will kill you,” you heard a voice warning you. You didn’t have to look up to know who it was.

“I’ve put way worse inside my mouth,” you teased him, taking another drag. “Didn’t think of you as a fancy bar kind of dude.”

“I’m not,” he just replied, walking over and stopping in front of you.

“I’m guessing you’re here because you liked the show?” you said, a sly grin appearing on your face.You opened your mouth to say another joke, but Aiazawa grabbed the back of your hair and pulled it harshly towards him.

“You’re a fucking brat, you know that?” he growled against your face. You bit your lower lip and tried to take another drag of your cigarette, only for him to slap it away with his free hands. “You think you’re so fucking funny with your song,” he said, your eyes setting of his again. The hunger you had seen while you were singing on the stage were back there.

“But I am hot for teacher,” you whispered against his lips with an innocent voice.

That was enough for Aizawa to push you down, making you fall on your knees. He unzipped his pants in front of your face and you couldn’t help but lick your lips in anticipation. For the past couple of months, riling him up so he showed his more dominant side with you. Without the need to be ordered to, you opened your mouth and he quickly killed it with his cock, already half hard from your previous exchange.

Never letting go of your hair, he let you bob your head up and down his length, your hands roaming up his thighs as you did so.

“So many hours spent taming you and you still don’t know your place,” he grunted, tugging your hair, eliciting a moan for you. “Maybe it’s because you’re enjoying this too much. But you couldn’t take any more, could you?” he asked, pushing himself just the tiniest bit down your throat. You took him with a groan and nodded at his words, the implication of his words marking your thighs press against each other. Aizawa smirked at your affirmative answer.

Suddenly, you felt him tug even harder at your hair, pulling you closer to him. Your throat made way for his cock, your nose almost grazing his crotch. He started thrusting inside your mouth at a rapid pace, deep grunts coming out of his mouth. Your hands immediately went to hold onto his pants, trying to ground yourself as he fucked your mouth.

“How am I going to fucking tame you if you’re enjoying this?” he spat, looking down at you. Your eyes quickly filled with tears from the abuse to your throat, but at the same time you couldn’t help the moans from coming out. Having him use you like that on an empty alley seemed like something taken out of your fantasies, as you’ve always used the back room or the men’s bathroom of the underground bar you had met. You could see his teeth as grinding as his hips kept moving.

Drool started dripping from your mouth and falling on your thighs only covered by the fishnet he had broken the last time he had taken you in a bathroom stall after a show. The memory of his pressing your head against the door of the stall as he fucked you from the back plus the view of the hot, disheveled teacher as he lost himself inside your mouth made you moan needily.

The vibrations of your voice made him groan and he quickened the pace. Soon enough he was releasing inside your mouth, the hold he had on your hair tightening even more. Aizawa pulled himself off your mouth and a bit of his cum fell on your tank top as you panted to get some air. He held your cheek in his hand, and you looked at him with a soft smile as he cleaned the corners of your mouth with his thumb. You knew your makeup was probably a bit smudgy and your lipstick was surely gone, but he still smiled back, even if it was just a small twitch of his lip. 

Aizawa helped you stand up and watched you as you fixed your hair and checked your clothes, trying to clean off the stain on your tank top.

“I have to go inside now,” he said, his face back to his normal, apathetic self. You nodded, and fixed your jacket once more before leaning forward and placing a small kiss on his face.

“You know where to find me, teacher,” you winked at him, before turning on your heel and walking away.

[out-of-jams]

Rules of the Game || jhs

↠ Rules of the Game ↞ “You didn’t even need to see the tag sewed into the jacket of his suit to know that it cost more than you made in a single weekend. Didn’t need to sit next to him on that leather couch to know that he probably smelled exactly how he looked: dark, rich, dangerous.”

Pairing: Hoseok x Reader

Warnings/Genre/Rating: Set in the Roaring 20s! Mobster!Hoseok. Singer!Reader. Flapper!Reader. Fluff. Strangers to lovers. Law breaking. Alcohol use. Oneshot. PG-13.

Word Count: 2.7k

Fic Theme Song: My Heart Belongs To Daddy -- Marilyn Monroe

A/n: I recommend listening to the song above to set the mood!~

                               | | Masterlist | |

All of my works are purely fiction. Everything I write is my intellectual property and therefore belongs to me.©out-of-jams. Do not copy or repost without permission.

The air was hot.

Humid.

Stifling.

A bead of sweat drifted down the back of your neck and goosebumps broke out on your flesh as it traveled below the top of your dress. It was one of your favorites: black and short with silver embedded jewels that glittered beneath the low ceiling lights. A tight fitting pearl necklace decorating the bare skin of your neck matched the earrings pierced through your lobes. And the heels on your feet made you taller, though not by as much as you’d like.

“You ready to go again?”

You glanced up from the glass of water clutched in your hands to meet the questioning stare of one of your dearest friends. Kim Taehyung nodded his head towards the stage that took up the whole back wall of the joint. Two women in similar styles of dresses to yours and short cut hair side-eyed him as they walked past. Giggled into their illegal cocktails and whispered behind their hands.

Perhaps if you hadn't known the man at your side before he was old enough to be weaned from his mother’s breast, then you would have sighed with them. Would have fluttered your lashes at the unnecessarily handsome man gifted with a sweet face and even sweeter disposition. You couldn’t fault them for double-taking at his warm chocolate eyes and hair long enough to cover his lightly tanned forehead.

Taehyung’s coral colored, cupid-bow lips tilted up as he tried and failed to hide how he preened beneath their longing stares. Rolling your eyes, you slid your glass of water back onto the high topped table and patted his suit clad arm. “Let’s go before you get snatched up again and I lose my saxophone player for the night.”

“That was only one time!” Taehyung’s amused voice followed you back to the stage and up the three short steps. Chatter from the packed speakeasy hidden beneath the restaurant upstairs filled your ears with familiarity.

The space wasn’t very big. Then again, it didn’t need to be. Not when it sold illegal drinks like newsboys sold papers. Molls and Dolls was one of the most popular joints in town and everyone who was anyone tried to get their names put down on the incredibly long list. The interior was ritzy, filled with expensive leather chairs, polished wooden tables, and imported Persian rugs.

At the side of the place, to the left of the stage, was the bar. Already packed with broads and fellas dressed in clothes so expensive that those who looked wouldn’t doubt that they came with enough dough to buy whatever they wanted. They belonged to the type of crowd that you didn’t. 

You didn’t grow up rich, didn’t have all the possessions you owned bought with daddy’s money. Maybe that was why it was so easy to see past the fronts they wore like cheap, plastic masquerade masks. They wanted people to think that they held all the power, when in reality, they did not. Were just like everybody else when you took away their money and it came down to it.

Nodding at your piano player in a silent motion to urge him to put down the whiskey and pick up the tunes, you approached the microphone center stage. It was cool to the touch as you lightly wrapped your fingers around the stand. The ten minute break you’d taken was exactly what you’d needed to moisten your throat and prepare yourself to sing for the rest of the night.

When a familiar melody started up as your pianist danced his fingers across the keys, you felt your eyes slip closed in bliss. While the rest of the patrons were home to mansions and pricey cars, the stage was where you belonged. The eyes of those who came to watch you sing, to hypnotize them with the words that itched to spring free from your tongue, breathed life into you. And the rhythm of the instruments at your back guided the beating of your heart.

You hadn’t been singing at Molls and Dolls for very long. A year ago was when you’d been approached by the mac who owned the place. He’d caught you the moment you slid from the stage at one of the less infamous underground clubs in the city. Had praised your voice and offered you a slot to sing at his joint every Friday and Saturday night. The only catch was that you could work for him and him only.

The one thing that stopped you from turning him down (how could you live off of working two days a week?) was the hefty wad of cold, hard cash he’d slipped into your palm. A downpayment, he’d said, loose change compared to what you could make with him. Something to give you the incentive to accept.

How R.M.--he never gave out his actual name--really earned the money he got stayed a mystery to you. You knew that the safe in his office was filled to the brim with more bills than you could count; more dough than he could possibly make in an evening. But you never asked. Didn’t need to when he paid you enough to keep the questions from your mouth.

You came to sing, to sip at the drinks you were given and bask in the attention from those who envied you. Who wished they could hypnotize a room with only their voice.

Like now.

You could feel their gazes upon you while you sang and you soaked it up. Tried not to let a smirk capture your red tinted lips when you felt heat boring a hole into the side of your face. Instead, you slid your kohl lined eyes open as the band playing behind you transitioned to fast paced, sexier song.

“If I invite a boy some night To dine on my fine food and haddie.”

Across the room, a pair of dark eyes watched you. They were familiar, and yet not. Belonged to an absolute billboard of a man who looked like he fit more on the cover of magazines sold on street corners, than in the basement of a speakeasy. Hair the color of the scotch he sipped on and skin the same hue as molten honey, he met your gaze beneath heavy brows. His high cheekbones, a strong nose, and jawline sharp enough to cut diamonds were enough to catch many a lingering look.

“I just adore, his asking for more But my heart belongs to Daddy.”

You didn’t even need to see the tag sewed into the jacket of his suit to know that it cost more than you made in a single weekend. Didn’t need to sit next to him on that leather couch to know that he probably smelled exactly how he looked: dark, rich, dangerous. Every single weekend, he claimed the same spot across the room with a handful of other, equally handsome men.

You weren’t sure what they did or why they were there. Why everyone skirted around them like particularly frightened railway mice. R.M. would join them occasionally with friendly handshakes and pats on the back. So it wasn’t very difficult to put the pieces together that wherever he got all of his money from had something to do with those fellas.

Words had never been exchanged between you and the man who watched you perform like you were the only two people in the room. Neither of you had crossed that invisible line that drew itself down the middle of space that divided you. It was an unspoken rule in the game the two of you played. You’d sing as if just for him, and he’d gift you with his attention.

“Yes, my heart belongs to Daddy So I simply couldn't be bad Yes, my heart belongs to Daddy.”

Already hooded eyes seemed to darken even further at the suggestive words that spilled from your tongue. And if you looked close enough--which you always seemed to do when it came to him--the slight quirk of his heart-shaped mouth was a sign of his approval.

“So I want to warn you laddie Though I know that you're perfectly swell That my heart belongs to Daddy Cause my Daddy, he treats it so well.”

Not even the crowd gathered around the front of your stage like meerkats, with their eyes trained on you with rapt observation could pull your own from him. One of the men sitting next to him, a petite looking blond with a soft, pretty face, leaned over to say something into his ear. Not even then did he turn away from you. Just answered his companion without breaking the rules of the game.

“If I invite a boy some night To cook up some hot enchilada Though Spanish rice is all very nice My heart belongs to Daddy.”

The hair at the back of your neck stuck to your skin from the heat that perforated the room due to too many bodies and too little air circulation. But you didn’t pay it any mind, too busy trying to stave off the feeling of disappointment when a man you didn’t recognize approached the men. Cut off your line of sight to the man sitting on the couch. Whatever was said was enough to cause him to rise, press his almost finished drink into the hand of one of his companions and follow the stranger out of the room.

Though the look he sent you before disappearing was a message in and of itself. A silent apology for ending the game before time was up.

The rest of your set up on stage didn’t affect you like it usual did. Failed to provide you with the normal high that accompanied a performance. You tried not to let displeasure show on your face when you departed the stage. The night hadn’t ended, nor would it until the first signs of light began to show as the sun rose over the city skyscrapers. But you were exhausted.

Unfortunately, you couldn’t leave even if you’d wanted to because R.M. had yet to pay you for the weekend. If it were Friday, then you would have just shrugged it off and let it go until the next day. But it was Saturday and you didn’t want to have to come back during one of your off days. Molls and Dolls was too far away from your apartment to hike across the city when you didn’t need to.

R.M. was nowhere to be seen, had disappeared a little while ago according to the bartender who poured you a glass of gin. So sadly, you were left waiting for the man when you weren’t even sure if he would return for the night. Sometimes he would vanish and reappear the next day like nothing had happened. Though you supposed that since he owned the place and all, it was more than acceptable for him to do so.

You just wished that he didn’t do it when you needed to get paid.

Sighing, you pressed the martini glass to your lips and took a hefty sip. The alcohol burned your throat as it slid down, but you didn’t mind it. Not when it lit fire to the blaze itching beneath your skin. Taehyung had disappeared somewhere into the flock of tittering women the moment he’d packed up his saxophone and stepped off the stage.

Left to your own devices, you rested your cheek in the palm of your free hand and surveyed the room. It was still packed wall-to-wall, filled with the sound of chatter and the jazz band who took your place performing. They were talented, good even, but you didn’t expect anything less from someone hired to work for R.M.

“Could I get you another drink, miss?”

Blinking at the sudden intrusion of a voice invading your personal space, you turned to meet the shameless stare of a stranger. He had a face that was all angles and sharp lines with eyes the color of the sky at midday. By the way he carried himself, leaned against the bar like he owned it, you could already tell what kind of man he was. One who thought he could have anything he wanted with the snap of fingers because of the weight of his wallet. Who thought he was the absolute bees-knees.

Raising an eyebrow at the way his gaze lingered on the bare skin of your legs exposed by your dress, you took another sip out of your glass. “I’m still drinking this one.”

“After, then,” he winked. “What d’ya say?”

You hummed before looking pointedly away from him in hopes that he’d get the message without you needing to spell it out. “No.”

“No?” Apparently not. The only thing he got was closer to you as he slid across the bar until his arm brushed your side. “Come on, doll. Don’t be a prude.”

Turning back to shoot him a heated glare, you leaned away from his touch. “Are you deaf?”

He didn’t seem at all affronted by your scoff when he reached up to brush your cheek with his pointer finger. “Can’t say that I am. Now accept my offer before I take it back.”

“Take it back, then.” You jerked your head back until he had no choice but to drop his hand.

“You--”

“I believe that the lady said no.” A voice, deep and raspy and accented with a vocal fry, spoke from over your shoulder. Warmth from a hand pressed to your waist accompanied it, and you found yourself looking back in surprise.

The first thought that came to your mind was that he was a lot taller than he looked from across the room. To the point where you had to crane your head up to take him all in; the sliver of his neck exposed by his expensive suit, a mole beneath his right eye, two dimples that indented either side of his mouth as he pursed his lips in displeasure.

He cocked his head to the side, voice pitched dangerously low. “Don’t make her say it again.”

One glance at the fella who’d forced his presence on you had you raising a brow at how quickly the blood drained from his face. His blue eyes were blown wide, mouth opening and closing like he’d forgotten how to make a sound. He let out a squeak that sounded so incredibly unmanly that you were embarrassed for him, before making himself scarce. Perhaps his reaction should have given you second thoughts about the man who’d come to your rescue, but it didn’t.

It only made you all the more curious.

“I could’ve handled that, you know.”

He looked down at you, took in your playful smile and flashed you one of his own. “I didn’t like his hands on you.”

“But yours is fine?” You questioned, referencing his own hand still on your waist.

He hummed, a deep rumbling sound, and smirked. “You tell me, dollface.”

“I think,” you tilted your head towards the bar, “that you should give me your name and buy me another drink.”

You could feel it then, like the room had shifted.

He barely even had to glance at the bartender for him to make his way over. “You can call me Hoseok.”

Hoseok brushed a stray hair from your face and tucked it behind your ear. It took all you had not to let the way your heart raced from the simple gesture. “And you?”

Your name fell from your mouth and something flashed in his eyes as he tasted it on his lips. Gestured for you to tell the bartender what you wanted.

The rules of the game had changed.

[girlactionfigure]

Last of the Red Hot Mamas

The Queen of Jazz

Sophie Tucker was a singer and comedienne whose powerful voice and brassy wit delighted audiences for over six decades.

Sophie’s Jewish parents had to escape from Russia in 1886 after her father had deserted the Russian military, and she was born on the boat to America. The family settled in Hartford, Connecticut where they ran a kosher boarding house and restaurant. Sophie and her three siblings worked hard in the family business, waking up at 3 am every day to peel and chop vegetables before school. After Sophie got home she waited tables and washed dishes.

From almost the moment of birth, Sophie had a huge and magnetic personality. She was confident, sassy, and uninhibited. Jewish vaudeville stars often stayed at her family’s boarding house and she was fascinated by them and their lives. She always knew she was destined for a life in show business. Her parents absolutely forbade her to join the paskudnyaks (rascals) who stayed at their rooming house. Sophie still found a way to perform – she started singing for their guests as she served them. “I would stand up in the narrow space by the door and sing with all the drama I could put into it. At the end of the last chorus, between me and the onions there wasn’t a dry eye in the place.”

Desperate to leave home, she eloped in 1903 with local beer truck driver Louis Tuck. When they returned, her parents organized a traditional Orthodox wedding for them. They had a son, Burt, in 1906, and lived with her family, where she was back to her old role of cooking, cleaning, and serving customers. Meanwhile a frequent guest was Willie Howard, a popular vaudeville comedian and the first to use openly Jewish content in his act. He was impressed by Sophie’s natural talent as an entertainer, and he urged her to move to New York and break into show business. Sophie’s husband Louis did not share her enthusiasm for the stage and after she told him she wanted to move to New York, he took off. Soon, Sophie left Burt with her family, telling them she was going to New Haven for a short vacation. Instead, she moved to New York and never returned. She was 19 years old. Burt was raised by Sophie’s family, and Sophie kept in frequent contact with them over the years.

Sophie arrived in New York with a letter of introduction to a famous composer from Willie Howard, but the composer wasn’t impressed by her singing. She was quickly able to find work singing at coffeehouses and saloons. At the German Village, a popular beer garden, she sang 50-100 songs a night for $15 a week. She was such a hit that she was soon making over $150 a week in pay and tips.

Sophie was generous with her money. She sent most of what she made to her family, and lived in a shabby boarding house where the other residents were prostitutes. A nice Jewish girl from Hartford, Sophie had never encountered this type of woman before, but she wasted no time making friends with her neighbors, and started a longtime practice of giving free women-only concerts in bordellos. Sophie shared her money and belongings with the call girls, and hid the money they made from their pimps. She later said, “Every one of them supported a family back home, or a child somewhere.”

At the time, $150/week was an impressive salary for a single woman, but it wasn’t enough for Sophie, who wanted to get out of the restaurant business once and for all and make it big in vaudeville. She got her first break in 1907: a chance to audition for impresario Chris Brown’s Amateur Night. After her audition she overheard Brown say, “This one’s so big and ugly, the crowd out front will razz her. Better get some cork and black her up.” He told Sophie that she passed the audition and would be featured in the show. However, she had to do it in blackface. Sophie was aghast at the suggestion, but Brown and the other producers insisted that her only chance for a career in show business was in blackface. She agreed to do it.

Sophie’s first vaudeville gig was at Tony Pastor’s on the Bowery where she was booked for a pre-show before the matinee. When she took the stage, the theater was empty. She started singing, but as people entered the room they completely ignored her, chatting noisily as they awaited the main event. She suddenly stopped the show, and started berating the audience for being so rude to her. Sophie had what Jews call chutzpah – audacious self-confidence – and she displayed so much humor and spirit that the audience fell in love with her. Nobody made a peep for the rest of the show, and they demanded three encores.

She was booked onto the New England Vaudeville circuit to sing African-American spirituals, and got rave reviews everywhere she went. It wasn’t just her big voice audiences loved, it was also her big personality, her confident swagger combined with self-deprecating humor. Sophie had a sharp wit and a voice that didn’t need a microphone to fill a room.

Audiences adored Sophie’s minstrel act, but she hated performing in blackface. Finally, at a performance in Boston, she’d had enough. She told the producer that her blackface makeup and costume were lost in transit, and before he could argue she marched onstage as herself. She told the shocked audience, “You-all can see I’m a white girl. Well, I’ll tell you something more: I’m not Southern. I’m a Jewish girl and I just learned this Southern accent doing a blackface act. And now, Mr. Leader, please play my song.” She never performed in blackface again.

Some of Sophie’s songs were bawdy, filled with innuendo and double entendre, while others were sentimental. Her most popular songs included “Some of These Days” and the Jewish favorite, “My Yiddishe Mama.” Initially Sophie only performed “Yiddishe Mama” in front of mostly Jewish audiences since much of the song was in Yiddish, but she soon found that all audiences loved the song. Even if they didn’t understand all of the words, they could appreciate her heartful singing about her devoted mother.

Sophie did a European tour in the 1920’s which was a huge success. When she arrived in England in 1922, she was greeted by fans with a huge sign reading “Welcome Sophie Tucker, America’s Foremost Jewish Actress!” Looking back at her career later in life, she described that sign as her proudest moment. Sophie performed for King George V and Queen Mary at the London Palladium in 1926. She greeted the monarch with a hearty “Hiya King!” The Daily Express described Sophie as “a big fat blond genius, with a dynamic personality and amazing vitality.” Yiddishe Mama became an international hit, and she was asked to perform the song in Berlin by the Berlin Broadcasting Company in 1931. Two years later, when Hitler came to power in 1933, all copies of the recording were destroyed.

Comedy writer Bruce Vilanch saw Sophie Tucker perform when he was a child. He remembered, “She’d make you laugh like crazy. She would belt. She still could blow the roof off the joint. Then she would do something incredibly schmaltzy, she would turn on a dime and make the audience weep… As soon as you were done crying, she would turn around and do some bawdy song… Everything she said was with the force of a judge making a sentence. She didn’t speak, she made policy statements.”

Throughout her career, Sophie chose songs mostly written by black and Jewish songwriters from Tin Pan Alley, including young Irving Berlin. She was close friends with her fellow Vaudeville performer Bill Robinson, known as Bojangles. When Sophie invited Bill to her sister’s wedding in the 1920’s, the doorman wouldn’t let him in, telling him to go through the kitchen. Sophie heard this and immediately pushed the doorman out of the way, closed the front door, and told the guests, “OK everybody goes through the kitchen.”

Despite her act’s raciness, she said “I’ve never sung a single song in my whole life on purpose to shock anyone. My ‘hot numbers’ are all, if you will notice, written about something that is real in the lives of millions of people.” Her songs included, “I May Be Getting Older Every Day (But Younger Every Night),” “I’m The Last of the Red-Hot Mamas,” “I Ain’t Takin’ Orders From No One,” and “When They Start to Ration my Passion, It’s Gonna Be Tough on Me.” She often made fun of her size, calling herself a “perfect 48.”

She kept improving her act, and after a decade as a solo performer, she created a back-up band of black jazz musicians called the “Kings of Syncopation.” They recorded several albums together, all of which were hits, and toured the country playing to enthusiastic crowds. In Chicago they played 15 weeks at the Palace and then at every other theater in town. Crooner Tony Bennett called Sophie “the most underrated jazz singer that ever lived.”

After a few years as the self-styled “Queen of Jazz,” Sophie re-imagined herself again, as a cabaret performer, accompanied by piano player Ted Shapiro. He became part of her act as they developed a snappy banter. Over the years she did some film, radio and TV work but what she loved most was interacting with a live audience.

Sophie married two more times, but neither husband liked being “Mr. Sophie Tucker” and both marriages failed. She said, “Once you start carrying your own suitcase, paying your own bills, running your own show, you’ve done something to yourself that makes you one of those women men like to call ‘a pal’ and “a good sport,’ the kind of woman they tell their troubles to. But you’ve cut yourself off from the orchids and the diamond bracelets, except those you buy yourself.” Throughout her life, Sophie was known for her generosity, and she gave away much of what she made to a variety of philanthropic causes. She established the Sophie Tucker Foundation in the early 1950’s, and endowed hospitals, synagogues, actors guilds, and several charitable organizations in Israel.

Sophie continued performing until the end of her life, even after getting lung cancer. While undergoing treatment she was still doing two shows a night. Sophie died at age 80 in 1966, during a months-long theater engagement. As she lay on her death bed, she asked the nurse to “bring me my chiffon hanky, bring me my wig” and she did bits from her act until she took her last breath. Thousands of mourners attended her funeral at Emanuel Synagogue Cemetery in Wethersfield, Connecticut. Known as the “Last of the Red-Hot Mamas,” Sophie’s act inspired later female performers such as Mae West and Bette Midler.

For entertaining audiences around the world for sixty years and giving generously to others, we honor Sophie Tucker as this week’s Thursday Hero.

Accidental Talmudist

[captain-josslett]

Broken Melody - Part Three

Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven, Part Eight, Part Nine, Part Ten, Part Eleven,

Summary: Grammy Award winning Emma Danvers is the first to say she has a pretty good life. But what happens when it implodes around her and it looks like things will never be the same again?

Words: 4.2k+

Warnings: Feels! I definitely got feels writing this!

Pairings: Emma Danvers x Lena Luthor (Eventual), Alex Danvers x Kelly OlsenIn 

This Part: It’s the Christmas concert!

As always B!D is named.

Thank you for reading and let me know if you wanna be tagged or any general feedback will be greatly appreciated.

Taglist: @thewitchandtheassassin , @natasha-danvers , @life-is-hella-unfair , @finleyfray​, @supergirl-writingz​

Emma Danvers paces back and forth backstage. Her blonde, wavy hair was down with loads of volume. Her long, glittery, white gold dress swishing against the floor as she paced. Emma was slightly worried about the very deep plunging neckline but her stylist managed to find material that matched her skin tone to accomplish the allusion. They understood why Emma didn’t want to show lots of skin, especially as kids were watching. But they believe that if you’ve got it, flaunt it. And Emma definitely had it.

Emma takes a deep breath as she can hear the audience beginning to enter the huge theatre and her nerves start shooting all over the place. The rehearsals have gone the best they could with only five days to practice. But, Emma still worries she could have done more.

“There you are!” Emma turns around and smiles at Karen, the choir leader and director. A grey haired, black woman, who was ready to put Emma in her place if she became a diva. But to her surprise, Emma Danvers is anything but. “Everyone is in the rehearsal room. Do you want to warm up with us?”

“I’d love to!” Emma says eagerly and follows Karen, placing a hand on her shoulder. “How is everyone feeling?”

“Nervous, excited, scared, joyful, wanting to throw up every minute!” Karen laughs loudly and Emma smiles as she hears the choir’s nervous chatter inside the rehearsal room.

“Basically how I’m feeling all in one!” Emma jokes as they stand outside the door.

“Ready?” Karen asks.

“You bet.” Emma nods and Karen opens the door to thunderous applause. Emma goes in after her and joins the cheering and foot stamping. After a few minutes of getting everyone pumped Karen holds up her hands and instantly everyone quietens down. They do fifteen of vocal and physical warm ups and Emma can’t help but feel a bit sad at knowing after the concert she won’t be working with the choir again. Not until her new album at least. Having already planned some songs she could do with the choir.

“Fifteen minutes everyone!” The stage manager calls from the door.

Nerves instantly flood Emma again and she bites the inside of her lip. She watches Karen hold up her hands and the excited chatter dies down.

‘She holds such power and authority!’ Emma thinks admiringly.

“I’m not going to say much. Just that I am very proud of each and every one of you. Your commitment over the past few days has been phenomenal-”

Emma nods and claps her hands lightly around the group. Many make eye contact with her and smile brightly.

“- and all I ask is that you enjoy yourselves out there tonight. Sing your hearts out and let’s show the world what Kingdom Choir can do!”

Everyone applauds and Karen looks to Emma, tilting her head asking if she wants to say something. Emma smiles and nods. Karen lifts her hands again and everyone stands to attention.

“I just wanted to say a huge, big, thank you to all of you. When I was told that the previous act had pulled out, you guys instantly came to my mind and I’m so glad Karen said yes!” Emma reaches out and places a hand on Karen’s shoulder. Who covers Emma’s hand with her own.

“Now, I know some of y’all were a bit sceptical when y’all heard y’all’d be singing with me.” Emma puts on an over the top country twang, causing a few giggles and agreements. She switches back to her normal voice. “But thank you for giving me the chance to show you what I can do. This has truly been a wonderful experience and I’m going to really treasure it as I move into the next part of this journey.” Emma smiles around at the group before continuing.

“The profits from the seats and those paying to view this online have gone way past the expectation. Meaning even more money towards the equipment needed for the children’s hospital and really that is the main reason we are here. To help those in need, to show compassion and to hold out a hand. So, as Karen has said, just sing your hearts out.” The group applaud loudly and stomp their feet, ready to go out onto the stage and give the performance of their lives.

Emma turns and leads the group out. She plays with her hands as she mentally prepares herself to become Emma the singer.

“Here you are!” A sound technician hands Emma her microphone. The curtain was still down and would be raised as the show begins.

“Thanks.” Emma waits by the wings and lets Karen and the choir go past her. She holds out her right hand and everyone high fives her as they get onto the stage.

The announcement comes over the speakers that the show is about to begin. The crowd cheers and Emma takes a deep breath as she steps onto the stage. She looks at the amazing decorations, a huge, decorated Christmas tree stands at the other end of the stage. Fairy lights are everywhere giving the huge stage a cosy and warm feel. She looks at the orchestra and the choir, giving them encouraging smiles. The countdown begins and the crowd joins in. Finally it reaches zero and the curtain slowly rises up.

‘Here we go!’ Emma thinks as ‘All I Want For Christmas Is You’ starts playing.

-- -- --

Kara can’t help but bounce up and down in excitement as the Superfriends wait for the concert to start. The atmosphere in the theatre is electric and buzzing. They are sitting near the front in the middle of the huge theatre.

“Kara!” Alex whispers to her sister. “Can you please stop bouncing?!”

Kara immediately stops and looks apologetically at the redhead. “Sorry Alex! I’m just so excited!”

“So am I! But you don’t see me bouncing up and down like a jack in the box!” Alex laughs and shakes her head.

“Kara?” Eliza says next to Lena, who is sitting next to Kara. Lena had offered to swap with Eliza so she could sit next to Kara, but Eliza refused. Stating she was happy where she is. Kara whips her head round to her adopted mother. “Have you remembered to put the dampers on?” Eliza says quietly, not wanting to be overhead. Kara nods and shows the light on the frame of her glasses. When it became clear Emma was going to be in a loud band, Eliza and Alex had worked on equipment for Kara to drown out a lot of the noise that would overwhelm her. That’s if Kara remembered to turn them on. At many gigs Alex would have to engage the device when she saw Kara flinching from over exposure.

Eliza smiles at her daughter and goes back to reading the programme. “I still can’t believe Emma managed to sort this out in so little time!” Eliza says to no one in particular. She wasn’t meant to be in National City for another few days but due to Emma performing she decided to change her plans and come a few days early.

Lena looks down at her own programme, the choice of songs showing a wide variety of hymns and modern songs. “Knowing Emma though, she can do anything she puts her mind to.”

“That is true.” Eliza smiles at the CEO. “Thank you for giving Emma this opportunity. She was so excited when she called about it.”

“I’m the one that should be thanking her!” Lena smiles brightly. “I still can’t believe the amount of people outside trying to buy tickets off us!”

“Yea!” Sam agrees next to Ruby, who is sat next to Eliza. “I had one guy offer me $10,000 for Ruby and my ticket!”

“$10,000?” Kara yells with wide eyes.

“Yea! Mom almost took it too!” Ruby grins as Sam playfully nudges her daughter. But before Sam can comment she’s interrupted by a voice over the speakers.

“Ladies and Gentlemen! The concert is about to start-” Kara cheers loudly along with most of the theatre. Lena claps and beams with her.

The twenty second countdown begins and all the Superfriends join in. Lena can practically feel herself vibrating with anticipation. As zero is displayed the curtain slowly ascends and Emma appears. Lena’s breath is immediately stolen as she takes her in. Her eyes roaming over the shiny, white gold ball gown.

“She looks so beautiful!” Kara whispers in Lena’s ear, who nods in agreement.

The song starts and Emma lifts the microphone to her lips.

I don’t want a lot for Christmas.

Whoops and cheers sound from the crowd as Emma’s strong, velvet voice sings out.

Pride fills the Superfriends immediately and Alex can’t help but tear up. Kara reaches down and takes a hold of her hand. They smile at each other and focus on their sister.

As the tempo picks up Emma and the choir start dancing. Everyone in the audience gets onto their feet clapping and dancing along.

Lena is blown away by Emma’s performance. How she seems to include everyone in the audience, from those right at the front to those in the balcony seats looking down.

Cause baby all I want for Christmas is You!

The crowd cheers when Emma hits the high note and continues to improvise with the choir.

-- -- --

All I want for Christmas.

As Emma finishes the last notes of the song the audience roars in applause. Emma bows her head for a moment in acknowledgement. Raising her head she puts the microphone to her lips.

“Thank you!” She says gratefully and the audience still cheers. “Thank you!” Emma can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the love she is receiving. She looks all around the theatre and to those in the ‘god seats’ high above her. “Thank you so much! Please take your seats.”

She walks to the grand piano and takes a sip of her water hidden from view. “Well, that went well.” Emma says into the microphone, causing the audience to laugh. “I must say you are all in fine voice tonight!” A few cheers call out. Emma swears she hears her sisters among them. “But, before we do any more songs, please put your hands together for Kingdom Choir and the wonderful National City orchestra!”

Emma turns to them and applauds. Careful not to whack her microphone. Not wanting to annoy the sound technician.

“Seriously these guys are superheroes. As you know, we haven’t had long to prepare this and the level of commitment and energy these guys have… It’s just been amazing.” Taking another sip of her water she places it back in its hiding spot and walks back to the centre of the stage.

“So, ready for another song?”

“YES!” The audience cheer loudly.

Emma nods at the conductor and the first notes of ‘O Holy Night’ start playing.

-- -- --

Lena is sure she is going to have goosebumps permanently on her skin for the rest of her life. The level of passion and power in Emma’s voice is breathtaking. Throughout the song it feels like a warmth Lena can’t describe fills the theatre. As if heaven had entered and the angels were singing along. Lena’s vision blurs and she blinks in surprise. Tears fall down her cheeks and she wipes them away with her finger. She sees Kara look over at her and they smile softly at each other. Kara wraps an arm around her best friend and they continue watching Emma.

As the song closes the applause is again deafening. Lena stands to her feet immediately, still wiping tears from her face.

“Thank you.” Emma’s voice is barely heard over the roar of the crowd. After a few minutes she motions with her hands for the audience to sit. Finally they do and Emma’s eyes lock with Lena’s for a moment and Lena gives her a tearful smile. Emma returns it, also focusing on her Mom, sisters and friends before looking around the theatre. “How about another fast one?”

-- -- --

The next few songs has everyone dancing on their feet and Emma dances along with them. Not wanting tonight to end.

“Wooo! Now that… That was fun!” Emma breathes out, trying to catch her breath. She laughs as the choir calls out in agreement. “Can you believe we are over halfway in our evening together?!”

“Noooo!!!” Emma laughs as she hears Kara yell loudly.

“But, if I may-” Emma takes another quick sip before putting the water down. “We all know why we are here tonight.” She walks slowly back to the centre of the stage. You could hear a pin drop. The theatre is so quiet as they watch her. “To support the utterly commendable work done at The Luthor Children’s Hospital. Now even though most of us haven’t used the service, and God forbid if you even need to. But, we all know the importance of our health and for our hospitals to have the best equipment and staff to continue serving our city.”

“I’ve gone to the hospital many times to visit the kids. Especially those who used their Make A Wish to meet me.” Emma smiles sadly, always remembering the little faces of joy as she’d enter the room. “And in the hospital, they have a wall, a special, in memoriam wall.” Taking a deep breath Emma swallows the emotion threatening to spill out. The amount of pictures she saw as she took the time to look over them. Such young children, taken far too soon.

“I’m reminded of the cold hard truth, that we don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring. That we lose those we love along the way.” Emma takes another deep breath and looks up at the ceiling above her. Remembering her Dad. The one she remembers before he was taken and changed. The one she grieves. “And yes, Christmas is a joyous time, to celebrate and remember. But, if I may, I’d like to pay tribute to those no longer with us.”

Softly the piano starts playing and Emma pulls herself together to sing the song. On the screen behind her photos of the departed, sent in by the public, is shown.

The fire is burning, the room's all aglow  Outside the December wind blows Away in the distance The carollers sing in the snow.

The audience stays quiet as Emma gently sings.

She can’t help but remember the last Christmas with her Dad. How they played in the snow with her sisters and sat around a roaring fire once they changed out of their wet clothes. The feeling of sitting on her Dad’s lap and have him wrap his big arms around her.

Everybody's laughing The world is celebrating And everyone's so happy Except for me tonight.

Emma uses more of her support to increase the volume in her voice for the chorus. She tries to keep her eyes off the monitors showing the pictures of peoples loved ones.

Because I miss you most at Christmas time And I can't get you, get you off my mind Every other season comes along and I'm all right But then I miss you, most at Christmas time.

She makes it through the next few verses and chorus but feels she’s starting to break near the bridge. Knowing the next set of photos are of Jeremiah and her family. She had asked her Mom and sisters if it would be okay and they readily agreed. But, now Emma isn’t sure if it was the best idea.

In the springtime those memories start to fade with the April rain

A picture of a child Emma on top of Jeremiah’s shoulders is shown when they went on a long hike. A young Alex and Kara are standing either side of Jeremiah, they are all smiling brightly at the camera.

Through the summer days till autumn's leaves are gone

Another photo comes on showing Emma and Jeremiah asleep on the sofa. Emma is resting against her Dad’s chest and he has his arms around her.

I get by without you till the snow begins to fall.

The last picture of Emma and Jeremiah flash up, showing the family's last Christmas together. One where they are all sat around the table having their Christmas meal.

Emma closes her eyes for a moment, remembering that last Christmas so clearly. How she always struggled with Christmases after that. They were never the same.

When she opens her eyes to sing the last chorus tears stream down her face. Her voice cracks but she pushes through.

And then I miss you most at Christmas time And I can't get you, no, no, no, get you off my mind Every other season comes along and I'm all right

Emotion overtake Emma and a sob escapes her lips. She lowers the microphone slightly and drops her head. The orchestra pauses. A few people in the crowd cheer in support of Emma. Who takes a shuddering breath and lifts her head and microphone. Eyes full of tears.

But then I miss you, most at Christmas time.

When the piano finishes the last chords, Karen and a few other choir members race up to Emma and hold her in a group hug. The audience raises the roof in their cheers and there isn’t a dry eye to be seen.

Alex, Kara, Lena and Eliza also get into a group hug. Lena tries not to feel awkward in how she’s imposing on this family moment. But she had no choice when both blonde’s beside her pulled her into it. She keeps her eyes on Emma who is trying to compose herself. She watches as Karen places Emma’s face in her hands and gently wipes the tears away. Obviously saying something encouraging to the blonde who nods and smiles sadly.

Soon Karen and the choir members get back into position and Emma takes a deep breath. “Who's ready for some more dancing?”

The audience cheers and gets to their feet as ‘Underneath The Tree’ begins.

-- -- --

When the final note of the upbeat version of ‘Joy To The World’ finishes Emma curtsies low at the applauding crowd. She can’t quite believe the concert is over as it all feels like a blur now. Confetti shoots into the air and the audience whoop. Emma rises and holds her hand out to the orchestra who keeps playing the upbeat melody. The audience cheers and the conductor bows. Emma next holds her hand out to the light and sound technicians at the back. Finally she holds her hand out to the choir behind her and the rush towards her. Gathering round her and dancing to the beat. They all wave when the curtain starts to descend, cheering and clapping with all their might.

When the curtain stops moving, separating the audience from the stage, Emma takes a deep breath.

“Well done Emma.” Karen pulls her into a tight hug. “That went better then we rehearsed!”

“Always the way!” Emma laughs and Karen nods in agreement. They pull apart but Karen keeps her face near Emma’s ear to talk to her. The choir still cheering and clapping with the orchestra.

“What are your plans? We are thinking of going to a local bar.”

“Ah I have plans with my sisters and friends.”

“No worries, it was a last minute thing anyway.” Karen smiles at her before turning to her group and dances with them.

Emma watches them for a moment before heading to her dressing room. Her whole body is buzzing with adrenaline, which she knows won’t last forever. And when she crashes she wants to be sat on a sofa with a pizza on her lap.

But it takes her a while to get to said dressing room as many people backstage congratulate her. She thanks them and breathes a sigh of relief when she can close the door behind her.

She grabs her phone and smiles at the many messages from the Superfriends. Mainly from Kara who sends a load of different emojis to express how she’s feeling. She sees the message from her Mom saying she will see her tomorrow as she’s heading back to the hotel to rest. Emma sends her a quick response of understanding before opening the Superfriend’s group chat.

Emma: Thanks everyone! I’ll see you at Kara’s soon! Please order the pizza as I’m starving!

Alex: Do you want us to wait for you?

Emma: No you go on ahead. I won’t be long.

Emma quickly changes into her skinny jeans, tank top and red leather jacket, not bothering to take her makeup off yet. She packs her bags and zips the beautiful dress in its cover. Emma places it on the clothes rail outside her dressing room. She passes the rehearsal room and pokes her head in saying bye to Karen and the choir.

Exiting through the stage door into the garage Emma is surprised to see someone stood by the bug. She quickly approaches and smiles when she sees who it is. “Lena?”

The raven haired beauty looks up from her phone and the smile she gives Emma makes the blonde go weak at the knees.

“Hi.” Lena says softly before pulling Emma into a hug. “You… Em… I don’t have any words for how amazing you were tonight.”

“Thanks Lee.” Emma says gently. She pulls back and places a kiss on Lena’s forehead. “Ready to go?” Emma asks as she unlocks the bug. Lena nods and makes her way over to the passenger side.

The drive to Kara’s was quick as most of the traffic from the theatre had already gone. A few fans were still hanging out on the street and cheered as Emma drove past. She waved at them and smiled while still paying attention to the road.

As they enter Kara’s building Emma can feel the adrenaline starting to wear off. “Why does Kara not have an elevator again?” Emma complains to herself as her movements noticeably slows.

Lena pokes her head around the corner having gone on ahead and heard Emma grumble. “Are you okay?”

“Yea, just starting to feel it.” Emma grabs onto either side of the railings and hurls her body up the stairs. Loud footsteps coming from above make her look up. Suddenly Kara and Alex are standing at the top of the flight of stairs. Lena smiles at them and continues past them, walking up to Kara’s floor.

“Need a hand?” Alex smiles down at her sister.

“No. I can-” Emma takes a step but falters. “Please.” Emma sighs out.

Both sisters race down to her and take an arm each.

“If you ever move can you please get a place with an elevator?” Emma breathes out as they walk together up the stairs.

“No promises little one!” Kara sings out and laughs as Emma huffs.

“Anyway, you are young, fit and healthy!” Alex teases, poking Emma in the side, causing the blonde to squeal and slap Alex’s hand away.

“Normally yes, but when you perform for almost two hours sometimes your body decides to do other things.” Emma grumbles.

Eventually they reach the top of the stairs, Alex lets go and heads to the apartment door.

Emma rests her head on Kara’s shoulder as they walk the short distance towards their eldest sister. Alex smiles at them and pushes the door open.

Applause greets Emma as she steps through and she feels her cheeks heating up in a blush. She smiles shyly and accepts the hugs from the Superfriends.

Finally Emma sits down on the sofa next to Lena and Sam. Pizza is laid out on the coffee table and Emma is given the honours of choosing first.

When everyone has chosen and has settled, Kara clears her throat. “As with tradition after one of Emma’s gigs.” Kara starts speaking and Emma stops chewing, frowning at what her sister is about to do. “Alex and I always talk about our favourite parts.” She smiles brightly at her sisters. “So, I will go first. My favourite bit was during ‘Hark! The Herald Angels Sing’ and you added in the ‘Gloria’ part and the organ came in. Literally the hairs on my arms, well, all over my body, stood on end!” All the Superfriends nod. “Oh and when you had members of the choir throw chocolate and candy into the audience during ‘Joy To The World’.”

“Of course you would choose that Kara.” Alex says sat on the floor, rolling her eyes.

“Well, what's yours?” Kara laughs.

Sighing heavily Alex looks down at her pizza.

“Alex?” Emma tilts her head. Knowing what Alex must be thinking.

“My favourite bit was… when you sang for Dad.” Alex swallows and bites her lip. “It hurt but... it was such a wonderful tribute.” Tears fill Alex’s eyes and she looks away embarrassed.

Emma places her plate on the table and quickly makes her way over to her eldest sister. She kneels on the floor and engulfs Alex in a hug. The redhead sighs happily and buries her head into Emma’s neck.

When they pull apart Emma stays sitting beside Alex. She reaches out for her plate and rests her head on Alex’s shoulder as she continues to eat.

“That was one of my favourite moments too.” Sam speaks out. “The way you sang it was next level. I can’t explain it. Like you poured your very soul into it.”

“Thanks Sam.” Emma smiles at the brunette and continues to listen to the Superfriends feedback. Soon they move onto sharing their past Christmas memories. But Emma's eyes start to get more and more heavy and she can’t help but close them as she still leans against her older sister.

Feeling happy and content with how well the concert went she drifts off into a peaceful nap.

(Part Four)

[dream-a-little-bigger-x]

Chapter 13 -- Perfect Harmony | Charlie Gillespie

Summary: Emily Fox is a talented 17-year-old with a passion for all things music. Her dream is to become a successful singer-songwriter one day. But to achieve that dream, she needs to get into one of the most prestigious music schools in her district – it’s all been part of her plan since she was six. Sadly enough, those schools cost a ton of money that her parents don’t want to invest. They don’t even want her to pursue her dream. So, now Emily’s hustling, working at the music store to save up to get into college. That’s until she meets Charlie, an annoying seventeen-year-old boy with the same dream as her. The only difference is, he’s just doing it. He doesn’t need a fancy college to pursue his dream to become famous with his band. He just writes his songs and books small gigs here, there and everywhere. Will meeting Charlie defer her from her dream college, or will he actually help her achieve the dream?

Pairing: Charlie Gillespie x OC (Emily Fox)

Warnings: mentions of death, sexual assault

Important note: the characters of Charlie, Owen, Jeremy and Madison are based on the characters they play on the show and i do not own their names, only OC are mine. The songs aren’t mine either, they’re all from the show except for one.

Chapter thirteen 

~|Emily Fox|~

“Good morning, party girl!” Uncle Mitch shouts a little too loudly on a Sunday morning. “You look rough.” I sit down at the kitchen table on the opposite of him. “Gee thanks,” I rub my face harshly, then rest my head on my hand with my eyes shut. “You got in late last night. Didn’t think you’d stick around at a Brianna Holly party for so long. It surprised me you went in the first place, but you know, you do you.” My eyes shoot open at the reminder of last night. Jake’s eyes. Jake’s hands. On me. Jake’s lips. On me. “I shouldn’t have gone,” I tell him honestly which only earns me a worried look. “I mean, it was fun teasing Brianna a little and standing up for myself and playing a song with the boys but then Jake…” I trail off, not wanting to talk about it but Mitch and I are all about the open-book-policy. Talk about anything and everything with each other even if it might worry the other. Better to share the load than take all of it on one’s shoulders. “What did he do?” Uncle Mitch’s voice sounds darker, heavier. Almost villainous. “He was talking about how great we used to be and that he wanted it back, I think? I don’t really remember what we’d talked about, all I know for sure is that he’d tried to kiss me. The boys had to literally tear him off me.” Mitch’s eyes are intense, but at least he’s not trying to go and murder Jake. “We left pretty much straight after that and the boys took me to the Music Store. We stayed there, talking, pretty much all night.” I smile at the memory because even though what preceded that beautiful moment was literally the worst thing, it’s still a moment to cherish forever. “I’m glad those boys were there to help you out. They sound like great friends.” I smile a little and nod determinedly. “Wish I could hear you guys play.” “We’re having band practice later tonight, if you want to come and li—” I can’t even finish my sentence, because Mitch has already gotten up excitedly, dancing around the kitchen – though I wouldn’t call that dancing – and running up to me to hug me tightly. “But first!” He lifts a finger in the air. “Let’s grab all the snacks and watch some movies!” I nod excitedly and get up to gather up some snacks. With hot cocoas and all the chocolate in the world, we settle onto the sofa with blankets wrapped around us and Disney+ open to pick a movie since today is Disney day. We alternate between Disney+ and Netflix, one week Disney, the other non-Disney. “Can we watch Aladdin?” I suggest, mainly because it reminds me of mine and Charlie’s moment on the balcony, unbeknownst to my uncle. It’s been a little while since we’d made out on the balcony. Might have to suggest it soon. Mama needs her sugar. “Your uncle Bobby loved that movie,” Mitch comments as he presses play, “Do you remember you two singing A Whole New World together when you were really young, and he gave you a bath?” I nod my head at the far, but beautiful, memory. “That first weekend I came to stay at this house?” Mitch nods his head, “Yeah, I used to make a Sultan out of Bobby with the bubbles.” Uncle Mitch laughs at the memory. “The bathroom was such a mess after that!” I can’t help but laugh at the desperation in Mitch’s voice. “But you two were the cutest duetters alive. I loved having you around when you were really young too, you know? Still so innocent, not knowing how big and bad the world was. It made me forget about the big, bad world too.” I smile at him and rest my head on his shoulder. I don’t know what I’d do without Uncle Mitch. Live on a street, I guess? Probably? He might not be family by blood, but he sure does feel like it. I never knew anyone being with Uncle Bobby than Mitch. They were my one true pairing. I wanted someone to love me the same way they loved – and still love – each other. Their bond is unbreakable.

“Ready to go, Mitchy?” I ask when we’re both changed out of our pajama’s after dinner, ready to head to Jeremy’s garage for band practice. It’s the first time we’ll be rehearsing in his garage, but I’m excited to find out where Sunset Curve previously used to rehearse. Pre me. “Yes! I am ready to partaaaay!” I roll my eyes at him, an amused smile on my face. “Behave though? Don’t go and embarrass me on the first day meeting them, okay?” “Yes, mom.” Mitch can be such a child, but I love that about him. “Boys?” I knock on the wooden door that’s ajar. There’s some rummaging inside, but nothing else. I push it open to find all three boys inside already. Charlie’s sorting through his loose songbook papers, Jeremy is tuning his bass, and Owen just sitting on the couch, playing around with his drumsticks. “Hey! I brought my uncle; I hope you don’t mind?” “Oh, not at all!” Jeremy says, and gets up from his spot on the armchair. “Hey, I’m Jeremy,” he introduces himself with a smile, reaching his hand for my uncle to shake, which he does. My uncle has this look on his face that I recognize as his gaydar. He literally scans people to find out their sexuality. His gaydar is very accurate. “Mitch, nice to meet you.” Owen gets up next, shaking my uncle’s hand too. “I’m Owen, the drummer,” he shows the sticks in his hand. “I see,” Mitch replies with a smile, and then comes Charlie. “Hey, I’m Charlie, I’m—” he points at me, and I know what he’s going to say, but I can’t have him tell my uncle about us yet. “The lead singer!” I chime in and give him a knowing look. “Right, yeah, the lead singer,” Charlie looks kind of hurt, and it breaks my heart in two as well. Just an us-thing, for now. Then it can be an everyone-thing. I hope he understands. “Nice to meet you, guys!” Mitch then leans closer to me, “And which one of the two cute semi-straight boys is the Cutie from the Music Store?” he whispers with Charlie just a few feet away. His head turns slightly and his mouth curls upwards. He heard Mitch. “Semi-straight?” I ask for an explanation. “Jeremy is questionable.” “Right…” I trail off, still whispering, “Let’s get to work, guys,” I speak up now, so the band knows I’m talking to them. Uncle Mitch looks a little hurt at me ignoring his question, though I’m pretty sure he knows it’s Charlie. “What song first?” Charlie queries while my uncle takes a seat on the couch and we get ready. “Why don’t we let the guest choose?” Jeremy suggests, pointing at my uncle. “Me?” I nod my head, encouraging him. I’d told them all the songs we’d made or already sang together. Which are three, four if you count This Band Is Back. “I really liked Perfect Harmony when Ems showed it to me the other day.” Charlie and I exchange a glance, a shy smile plastered on his face, and I’m pretty sure mine mirrors his. He goes to grab his acoustic guitar for this one. “Perfect Harmony it is, then!” Owen says and counts us in. Where Charlie and I imagined the soft beat and melody, that’s where Owen and Jeremy come in with the drums and bass. We’d only practiced this one a couple of times before. It still has the same, electric vibe it did when Charlie and I sang it alone. I still feel the same sparks, the same tingles rushing over my body. “I feel your rhythm in my heart, yeah,” I sing without taking my eyes off of him. “You are my brightest, burning star, woah-woah” “I never knew a love so real” “So real,” he echoes. “We're heaven on earth, melody and words When we are together we're In perfect harmony Woah, woah Perfect harmony Woah, woah Perfect harmony” I glance at Uncle Mitch. He’s staring at us with so much pride and intensity. When he catches my glance, he mouths “Cutie from the Music Store”, which makes me smile like an idiot. He knows. “We say we're friends We play pretend You're more to me We create a perfect harmony” Uncle Mitch gets up off his seat, clapping and whooping like an intense fan. “My favorite song ever! So beautiful!” he shouts in between cheers. We play Now or Never, and, upon Jeremy’s request, This Band is Back before calling in a break. “I need a wee,” I say and patter towards the bathroom in the back. When I’m about to head back inside, I hear the boys playing a song I haven’t heard before. Or at least I don’t think I have. It intrigues me even more when I hear Mitch’s voice through the microphone. “Let me introduce myself We got some time to kill Consider me the pearly gates to your new favorite thrills We could go make history or you could rest in peace But here there ain't no misery Cause on the other side we live like kings” I find the boys in their regular spots, Uncle Mitch probably having told them what chord to play in or something. Either that or they’re just playing around, and Mitch’s song just matches. “Whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do? Let your body loose, let your body loose Whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do? Show you a thing or two 'Cause you ain't seen nothing” That’s when I recognize the song. It’s the one Uncle Bobby wrote for a Halloween musical at his school once. It was the villain song of the whole story and stuck in all our heads for months. I still know the words, and thus decide to sing along with my uncle, much to the boys’ surprise. “Life is good on the other side of Hollywood Life is good on the other side of Hollywood So welcome to the brotherhood Where you won't be misunderstood Life is good on the other side of Hollywood” I get behind the keyboard and play a couple of notes, leaving the verse for my uncle. “Everything has got a price but happiness is free Just so happens, you're in luck We've got a vacancy We can set the night on fire and break out of the scene Your soul print on the walk of fame On the boulevard of your wildest dreams” I now grab a mic too, properly wanting to join in now. “Whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do boys? Let your body loose, let your body loose Whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do boys? It ain't bragging if it's true Now you ain't seen nothing” I walk up to Jeremy whilst I sing along to the chorus and Jeremy’s shredding the bass. “Life is good on the other side of Hollywood Life is good on the other side of Hollywood” I walk over to the drumkit and jam out for a moment with Owen. “So welcome to the brotherhood Where you won't be misunderstood Life is good on the other side of Hollywood” I then move to Charlie while my uncle gets to the bridge. The boys stop playing and clap along with me. “The rain don't blind the rising souls They got too much to see I got your glamour, got your gold Got all you'll ever need Let me hear you now!” The boys have somehow remembered the lyrics my uncle just sang, and sing them with me now. “The rain don't blind the rising souls They got too much to see” “Yeah,” Mitch goes for a high note, chilling my spine. “I got your glamour, got your gold Got all you'll ever need,” the four of us continue. “Yeah,” Another high note from Mitch. The boys now pick up their instruments again. “I said watch me make a move, watch me make a move boys” “Whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do?” the boys and I echo. “I said watch me make a move, no, I don't disappoint” “Whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do?” “Watch me make a move I'm ya number one choice” “Whatcha gonna do? Whatcha gonna do?” “Watch me make a move Come one and give me that noise” The boys take a break. “A tomb with a view Ain't it something?” And pick it back up with a bit of bass before all three of them join in again, and even join me into singing the backing vocals for my uncle. “Life is good on the other side of Hollywood Life is good on the other side of Hollywood So welcome to the brotherhood Where you won't be misunderstood Life is good on the other side of Hollywood So welcome to the brotherhood Where you won't be misunderstood Life is good on the other side of Hollywood” Charlie and Jeremy stop playing and leave Owen a little drum solo.

“Ain't it the best? Long live the dead!” Mitch shouts out dramatically, and then Owen goes off again on his drums. “I thought your Uncle Robert was the musically talented one?” Charlie asks with an impressed smile on his face. “How do you think we met? It was musical night in our favorite bar, and we sang a song together. That first scene in High School Musical?” The boys nod, knowing what he’s talking about, “It’s based on our story… Just straight.” The boys laugh light-heartedly at his story. “That’s not true,” I whisper, making them laugh even more. “That was a fun song though! How did you know it?” Jeremy asks me. “Uncle Bobby wrote it. He is – was – the music teacher at this high school and he wanted a cool villain song for the villain in his Halloween musical, so he wrote himself one. The song used to be stuck in our heads for months on end. It surprised me I still knew it.” “The boys were playing around with their instruments and it reminded me of Bobby’s song,” Mitch tells me, “I couldn’t help but chime in and start singing.” He wraps an arm around my shoulders, pulling me closer to him. “It’s such a tune,” I say with a smile, “I think Bobby would’ve liked us singing it together.” “I think so too,” says Mitch and he presses a kiss to my hair. “Let’s get home now, yeah? Give your boyfriend a kiss and we’re off.” Charlie and I freeze, neither of us expecting Uncle Mitch to know about this since I never told him. “Oh, come on. You could not sing Perfect Harmony without staring at each other like that heart eyes emoji-thingy. I don’t only have amazing gaydar, I also have amazing love-dar.” He winks at me as I shake my head in disbelieve, but I can’t help the smile either. My uncle knows me well. “See you tomorrow, guys,” I say with the most awkward wave. I mean, I’m not going to kiss Charlie in front of my uncle. Especially when he specifically told me to do so. That’s just weird. Uncle Mitch gives me a look, which I shoot back. He then rolls his eyes. “I’ll meet you outside. Say goodbye properly.” He leaves the garage, and then it’s the four of us. Neither Charlie nor I move, still unsure of the public displays of affection in front of the boys. “Seriously?” Jeremy groans before leaving the garage with Owen. They’ll be able to entertain my uncle for a while. I don’t even know why it’s so hard for me to show PDA. It never used to be this way with Jake. But maybe that’s a good thing. Maybe us taking it slowly and not showing us off too much is healthy for us. “I’ll see you at the store tomorrow?” I ask whilst the two of us slowly walk up to each other, inching closer and closer by the second. “Definitely,” he replies with a smile. Once we’re inches away, he grabs my hands in his. “Isn’t your uncle going to be annoyed you didn’t tell him sooner?” I shrug. “I don’t think so. He knows how private I am about relationships. And besides, you heard him, he’s got amazing love-dar.” Charlie’s laughter intertwines with mine. “I think he knew before today already too. He’s all-knowing.” “As long as he doesn’t know about our sneaky dates on your balcony, I think we might be fine.” I chuckle at that comment, and then both of us fall silent. “He probably knows this’ll happen though.” The words come out just above a whisper as he inches closer and dips down. His lips meet mine in a sweet, somewhat long-lasting kiss. “I’m pretty sure they’re eavesdropping, though,” I say when we pull away. “No, we’re not!” Jeremy shouts from the other side of the door. “Yeah, definitely,” says Charlie, and he lets go of one hand, intertwining the fingers of his other hand with the one he’s still holding. He leads me out the door and then lets go of that hand too. “She’s all yours, Mitch,” he tells my uncle, and reaches out the hand he’d just held mine with for a handshake. “Hey!” I shout, “I’m no property!” Both Charlie and Mitch raise their hands in defense. “Yes, girl! Tell ‘em!” Owen preaches, holding his hand up and I slap mine on it in a high five. “I’ll see you guys tomorrow.” I kiss Charlie’s cheek quickly and then leave the boys with Uncle Mitch. “They’re really nice boys, Muffin. I’m glad you’ve found them.” I smile at that. “Me too, Mitchy, me too.”

Taglist: @parkeret​​ @lukeys-giggle​ @hannahhistorian92​ @gingerxarmy​ @marinettepotterandplagg​ @lovesanimals​ @thequirkybookaholic​ @calamitykaty​ Lemme know if you want to be on my taglist for this story/any of my other works!

[puckwritesstuff]

Across the Crowded Floor - One-Shot

Just an idea I had-- probably not entirely "canon" to the fic, but I had fun with it. ^_^

---

Loki could barely see out into the club from backstage with how much cigar smoke there was. The band played a slow jazz number and the spotlight on the singer made the gold fabric of her satin dress shine.

“You had plenty money 1922…”

Sigyn pulled the microphone closer as she scanned the room. They were looking for a man they didn’t know, and he apparently had a particularly distinctive haircut. She hadn’t spotted anyone with his description the whole night, but there were still a few more hours until the club closed. And even then, there was always the next day.

“Why don’t you do right, like some other men do?”

She took the mic off the stand and started down the steps.

“Get outta here, get me some money too.”

As she walked through the smoke, she saw someone with a mass of black hair that came to points almost like animal ears on each side of his head, and long, bushy sideburns. It opened slightly to let him in, and the loud sound of the gambling room hidden in there could be heard from the stage. She walked back up to her spot.

“Why don’t you do right…”

The band paused like a gasp.

“Like some other men…”

She made eye contact with Loki, who was just off to her side.

“Do…”

The song came to an end and the audience cheered as Sigyn walked off stage.

“I think they want an encore,” Loki commented.

“I think they’re getting one,” Sigyn said. “He’s here.”

“He went to the back?” Loki asked.

Sigyn nodded.

“You didn’t happen to get a name while you were seducing the manager, did you?” Loki asked.

“I heard ‘Loge’,” she said.

Loki snorted.

“I’ll stay here,” Sigyn said. “You need a distraction.”

“I could need assistance,” Loki said.

“All they have is guns, Loki,” Sigyn said, adjusting his tie. “You’ll be fine.”

The applause started to fade until Sigyn walked back out on stage and it roared to life again. Sigyn’s gold magic spread out from the soles of her shoes as she walked, and the band started a slow dirge of a waltz with a heavy sax.

“I put a spell on you… because you’re mine…”

Loki went out into the house, watching as Sigyn’s magic poured over the steps down from the stage and into the audience. A light enchantment, not something she could hold for long— just enough to keep their attention. He headed over to the door in the back and knocked. A slot slid open, and he could see that there was someone on the other side.

“Password?”

“The handless swordsman.”

The door was opened, and Loki stepped into a room of chance and chaos. At card tables and roulette wheels, people were smoking, shouting, and spending money like the world was ending tomorrow. Loki zeroed in on his target at the chip counter and approached him. Other than his short stature, he was built like Thor and a cigarette girl offered him a Cuban, which he took. She lit it for him and left. Loki approached.

“Loge, isn’t it?” he asked.

“Who wants to know?” Loge said. He had a rough accent and snarled at Loki.

“I have a message for your boss,” Loki said.

Loge growled and clenched his fists. Loki held up his hands.

“I am unarmed,” Loki said. “That was not a threat.”

“Sounded like one, bub,” Loge said.

Loki smirked. “I’m sure to one of your disposition and mental acuity, it did. Tell your boss that Mr. Wednesday’s son wants to meet with her.”

“And what makes you think she wants to meet with you?” Loge asked.

Loki shrugged. “I’m pretty sure she doesn’t, but she should.”

“And why is that?” Loge asked.

“I have her brother,” Loki said.

Loge clenched his fist and three claws made of bone shot out from between his knuckles.

“…Ah,” Loki said.

Outside in the club, Sigyn was coming to the end of the song.

“I put a spell on you, because… you’re… mine…”

When the band cut off, Loki crashed through the door in the back, sliding across the floor. Loge stomped out after him, claws coming out of both his fists. The audience went for their pieces and Sigyn’s magic burst out to hold them in place like they were frozen in time.

“I can’t hold them long like this,” Sigyn said.

“Then just keep them occupied,” Loki said, getting to his feet.

Sigyn strengthened her enchantment and brought the audience back to her. She picked up the speed.

“I put a spell on you, and now you’re gone…”

Loge swiped at Loki with his claws, and Loki dodged. He summoned a dagger and parried the next strike. He slashed Loge across the chest and was stunned as he watched the skin heal itself in front of his eyes.

“Oh, that’s not good,” Loki said.

“Your weapons aren’t gonna do much, bub,” Loge said.

“Good thing I know a few other tricks,” Loki said.

He threw a spell at Loge’s feet, putting a sheet of ice across the floor. Loge tried to charge but slipped and fell. Loki threw a pair of knives and they pierced Loge’s hands, pinning them to the floor. Loge sneered. He slowly pulled up his hands, the blades and handles going through the skin and out the other side. When Loge got to his feet, the wounds had fully sealed.

“You can take some pain,” Loki commented. “Impressive.”

“I’m gonna tear your punk ass to shreds,” Loge growled.

“I’m sorry, but not on the first date,” Loki said. “I’m not that kind of girl.”

“Watch out, watch out, watch out, watch out…”

Loge slashed at him, and Loki parried.

“Oh, who am I kidding, of course I’m that kind of girl,” Loki said. “But you’re not exactly my type— not really into bears. Though with your height you’re really more of a wolver—”

Loge retracted his claws and punched Loki in the mouth. Loki staggered back.

“If you don’t believe, you better get superstitious…”

There was blood pooling in his mouth from the hit. Loki threw a concussive blast and knocked Loge over the bar. Loki stood up straight and fixed his jacket.

“Bye-bye… bye-bye.”

As soon as the band cut off, a gunshot rang out and Loki staggered back. Loge had grabbed the gun from under the bar and shot Loki in the stomach. He grasped the wound with his hand before anyone could see his Jotun blood staining his shirt. Sigyn gasped and pulled them out of the room with the Bifrost. Loge headed over to the phone on the wall and dialed.

“Hey, boss,” he said. “It’s Logan. I’m at the club on 23rd. A pair of kids came in that you should know about.”

Back in the crappy hotel room Loki and Sigyn had rented, Sigyn was trying to delicately remove the bullet in Loki’s abdomen with a pair of tweezers and some fishing wire. She had stopped most of the bleeding, but she couldn’t leave the bullet in his body.

“We almost had her,” he muttered. “We almost—ow!”

“Sorry,” Sigyn muttered. “But you know magic doesn’t work on lead, so just stay still.”

“Right,” he said.

They continued in silence for a moment.

“I was supposed to follow him,” Loki said. “I was supposed to find her.”

“I know,” Sigyn said.

The bullet came out and Sigyn dropped it in the waste bin. She healed over the remaining wound.

“My heart,” she said, sitting up to face him. “It happens. We’ll do better next time.”

“I just want her back,” he said.

“I know,” she said. “We’ll keep trying.”

He nodded, looking away. Sigyn lifted his chin and kissed him.

“You sang well tonight,” Loki said against her lips.

“Well, that’s the magic for you,” she said.

“I like listening to you sing, regardless,” Loki said. “But I like it better when you sing to me.”

She smiled. “Would you like a private performance?”

He grinned and kissed her neck.

“Those fingers through my hair / That sly, come hither stare / That strips my conscience bare / It’s witchcraft…”