#binch ! this spot on . . . .

[kitswritingantics]

Pleeeeease newsies fantasy AU I beggggg

HEHEHAHAHAHAHH I'VE BEEN WAITING MY ENTIRE LIFE TO YAP ABOUT THIS

now just hear me out. think of like. super mario. evil king (pulitzer) has princess katherine locked away. prince jack (forced to marry her in like a month) has to go save her, don't wanna, blah blah blah. get's sent with his servant/partner in crime/best friend charlie (aka crutchie) and knight david. (they're gay. in case you can't tell. i'm a javid truther but i can also be a jatherine truther. jack has two hands.)

on the way the goobers find travelling minstrels (race and spot), bounty hunters/thieves (buttons, finch, and elmer. the guys ever), and all of them tag along to help them fight the king and his dragon (the dragon's probaby snyder now that i think really deeply about it. that's honestly so funny). also more homosexuality, elmer's down BAD for charlie who's an oblivious (and equally down bad) little loser.

you know the drill, fairy tales have happy endings, they save princess katherine and jack decides "hey! i don't wanna marry her!" and goes and kisses davey instead. davey sets up kath with his older sister sarah and they fall in love. charlie and elmer are really bashful and adorable i'm obsessed with them. also LESBIAN SPRACE. BECAUSE I CAN.

anyways there's my yap hope you enjoy!!! i might end up writing this later only time will tell!!

[mer-se]

says cloudy tomorrow so going to try and see the full(ish) moon tonight and be by the ocean , it’s needed its all I been thinking about all workweek thank fuck it’s wednesday

[damazcuz]

*walks into your house* its quite lovely in here i *spots a ghostly apparition* ...................well first who is that saultry little binch in the corner

[rockoblanco]

all of those “gay vacation” towns / spots like fire island or Provincetown (the only 2 i kno about lol v northeast of me) aren’t actually “gay vacation” towns they’re like only for rich gays & nobody rlly talks about that 😭 like whenever i see someone talk abt fire island im like …. Binch!!!!!! im going 2 frickin rob u !!!!!!!!!!! lol

[bwabys-scenarios]

Fixer Upper

Part 24

Perv!Kurapika x Fem!Reader

part 23

part 25

!!REBLOGS APPRECIATED!!

warnings: sexual content, mentions of reader being willing to do anything to keep Leorio with her in the past(including sex, but he doesn’t go through with it obviously), drinking/being drunk

taglist: @fabitheraven @tsukilover11 @ashdownunderscorebeloved @lemonslut @homeinmydreams @superweeniehutjrsblog @bugmomwrites @heartsforseo @lixiawinter @altaircc @itszenava @fiightforlovee @mimi-sanisanidiot @monainanuttshell @wow-im-gay @whorermoviestar @lightshowerrr @mama-m1na @nenggie @wicked-binch @jamayah @themanicwriter01

If you’d like to be ADDED to the tawglist, please comment a red heart ❤️, make sure you’re able to be tagged/mentioned, and have your age in your bio(IF YOU ARE ALREADY ON THE TAGLIST, YOU DON’T NEED TO ASK TO BE ADDED AGAIN!!)

The mission was long and hard, but Kurapika gained enough new information to make it worth it. He felt exhausted, and hadn’t eaten a good meal the entire month he was gone. He knew as soon as (Name) saw him, she’s be worried.

He had tried harder to take care of himself knowing he’d be returning to (Name), but it was still a struggle. At least he was freshly showered and wearing one of his nicer suits. Maybe… she would think he looked handsome.

That thought made Kurapika blush. He was only a few minutes from her house, and could picture her smiling face when he walked in. It made his heart race, his palms sweaty.

‘Is this what being in love is like?’

Kurapika wasn’t sure if he liked being in love. It made him nervous and his head was clouded with visions of (Name) and a live with her. They made it hard for the blonde to focus on what he really needed to do.

Find the scarlet eyes, and kill the Phantom Troupe, those were his goals. Part of him knew he didn’t have time to spend gravitating towards (Name), but when he stepped out of his cab and onto her driveway, he felt all of his doubts melt away.

Killua’s bike was lying on the lawn next to one of (Name)’s rose bushes, and he noticed that there were a few Halloween decorations dotting her yard. He stepped over a plastic skeleton hand sticking out of the ground, a smile tugging at his lips when he spotted a little cloth ghost hanging from her ghost.

By the door, there was a hay bale, a small scarecrow sitting on it, with enough room to place other items. Kurapika wasn’t had never celebrated Halloween, but knew the basics. ‘Maybe it’s a space for pumpkins or something?’

Kurapika knocked on the door, his duffle bag still slung over his shoulder. The sound of someone shuffling towards the door made him stand up straight and glance at himself in the window.

His hair was a little messy, so he smoothed it out as much as possible before the door opened.

“Wow, it’s you. I didn’t think you’d actually be coming back.”

Kurapika’s smile fell when he spotted Killua standing behind the door, looking the blonde up and down. “Do you not have somewhere to stay, or something? It’s like feeding a stray dog, they always come running back when they’re hungry.”

Kurapika felt his eyebrow twitch in annoyance, quickly pushing past the boy and into the house. “You know how I feel, Killua. I’m here to see her again.”

Killua stood by the door for a moment, watching as Kurapika paused, setting his duffle bag down. He sniffed the air for a moment, Killua raising an eyebrow. “You know I was joking when I said you were like a stray dog, right? You don’t have to act like one.”

He ignored Killua, walking towards the kitchen instead. Kurapika wasn’t sure why, but he felt drawn to whatever was cooking.

(Name) stood near the stove, bending over to open the oven door. She hadn’t noticed him yet, and he was glad. That meant Kurapika got to stare at her plump ass, the jeans she was wearing hugged the curvature of her hips.

“Mmm… I think it’s done.”

She was talking to herself quietly, something he found endearing. He watched as she set something on the stovetop, the blonde peeking over her shoulder.

This was a mistake, because as soon as he stepped closer she jumped. “Hello?”

(Name) whipped her head around, wielding a wooden spoon as a weapon, only to drop it when she spotted that familiar head of blonde hair. “Kurapika?”

Her eyes widened, and he could see tears prickling at the corners. Kurapika didn’t have time to process anything as the girl wrapped him up in her arms, laughing. “You came back, you really came back!”

She looked up at him, a smile stretched across her lips. “I’m so happy. If I’m being honest, I… wasn’t sure you were telling me the truth.”

He felt his heart break a little at her words, but he couldn’t blame her for her doubt. Kurapika only smiled, tucking a piece of hair behind her ear.

“I missed you, (Name).”

She leaned into his touch, sighing contentedly. “I missed you too…”

The blonde peeked over her again, (Name) turning to see he was staring at the baked good she just took out of the oven. “So… what is that, (Name)?”

She took off her oven mitts, and upon further inspection Kurapika realized both them and her apron her Halloween themed. Her apron was black, with the words ‘gone batty’ written across the chest, and her oven mitts were black with a pattern that consisted of little white skulls and pumpkins.

“Oh, I made some peach cobbler! It’s the perfect treat for the fall season.”

He tilted his head, his eyes following her as she walked towards the freezer. “What are you doing?”

She opened the door to the freezer, pulling out a tub of vanilla ice cream. “You can’t have peach cobbler without vanilla ice cream!”

Kurapika hovered around her. “Well, I’ve never had peach cobbler before so I wouldn’t know.”

(Name) gasped, grabbing a bowl. “Oh, we’ll have to change that.”

She placed a piece of hot peach cobbler into the bowl before leaving two generous scoops of ice cream on top.

“Here you go! I’m going to get bring killua his share, I’ll be right back!”

She walked out of the kitchen carrying a bowl for Killua, leaving Kurapika too look down at his own.

It smelled divine, a strange sense of nostalgia overtaking him as he scooped up a piece of cobbler smothered in ice cream. His mouth watered, he’d missed (Name)’s cooking the entire time he was gone.

He brought the spoon up to his mouth, taking a bite.

‘Oh my god.’

All of a sudden, Kurapika was a child again, sitting in his mothers lap as she fed him spoonfuls of something sweet off of her plate.

“Not too much, Kurapika. It’s almost time for bed.”

He pouted up at her, his little hands grabbing at her bowl. “Just one more, momma! One more bite!”

His mother chuckled, scooping up another spoonful. “Okay baby, one more bite.”

Kurapika felt tears stream down his cheeks as he shoveled the peach cobbler into his mouth, sniffling. Not only was the food delicious, it made him remember when days were simpler. Before he lost his clan.

“Kurapika?”

(Name) stood in the doorway, looking concerned. “Are you alright? You’re crying…”

She used her apron to dab at his tears, the blonde clearing his throat. “I’m fine, just, uh… burnt my tongue.”

“Oh, let me see! I might have something to help.”

He blushed, but stuck out his tongue for her. Kurapika knew she would be able to tell he hadn’t burnt his tongue just by looking at it, but he couldn’t say no.

She hummed a she inspected it, the blonde blushing as she leaned closer. “Hmm… do you want me to kiss it better, Pika?”

His face erupted into a blush. “K-kiss my tongue? Y-you-“

She laughed, pulling back. “I’m joking, I know you didn’t burn your tongue.”

He pouted at her, his face red with embarrassment. “Don’t tease me like that, (Name).”

“Well, don’t lie to me. Why were you crying?”

He couldn’t argue with her, his eyes softening as he took another bite of his treat. “… this food reminds me of my childhood. My mother used to make something similar to it.”

(Name) nodded, now feeling a little bad for teasing him. “I see… I’ll have to make you some more later then.”

She unrolled a section of aluminum foil, covering the pan. “Alluka is flying in today, and I want her and Nanika to try some!”

Kurapika nodded, not taking his eyes off the pan. “Yeah…”

She smiled. “Okay Kurapika, now that you’ve had your snack, I want to show you something!”

He blushed when she grabbed his hand, pulling him out of the kitchen and towards the stairs. “What are you showing me?”

(Name) giggled, leading him to the guest bedroom upstairs. “Open the door and you’ll see!”

Kurapika gave her a curious look before turning the knob and walking in.

His eyes widened at the sight of the room. Before when he peeked, it was a plain white room meant for guests, but now it was furnished with the walls painted a baby blue.

A soft, shaggy rug sat in front of the bed with a pair of navy blue slippers in the middle of it. There was a nice writing desk in the corner of the room for him to work at, and a planter filled with bright red poppies on the windowsill.

“(Name)…”

He picked up the navy blue robe sitting on the bed, seeing an embroidered name written in gold print on the breast pocket.

‘Kurapika’

“This room… is this for me? You… you did this for me?”

She nodded, giving him a shy smile. “Yeah, since you’ll be staying here more permanently, I wanted to make sure it felt like home.”

Kurapika’s breath hitched, his eyes turning that pretty shade of scarlet that only she got to see. “This… this is very sweet, (Name). Thank you.”

He pulled her in for a hug, burying his face in her hair. “It’s no problem, I promise. You have a home here, and I wanted to make sure you knew that.”

The two stayed silent, (Name) raising her hand to pat his back. He wished he could stay this way forever, holding her like this.

“Ah, it’s about time to pick up Alluka…”

She pulled away from him, giving the blonde a smile. “You get settled in, I’ll be back in about an hour.”

(Name) began to walk away, but was stopped by Kurapika grabbing her wrist. “Wait, why did you move me up here? My room was downstairs before…”

Her face heated up, and she stayed facing away from him. “W-well, I wanted to move you upstairs so we’d have the spare bedroom downstairs open for guests. And… it’s more private up here. I know it can be overwhelming sleeping next to Gon and Killua.”

“Yeah, they’re pretty loud.”

They both laughed, (Name) glancing back at him. “Why don’t you go look in your drawers?”

He turned to do just that, and with his grip on her wrist gone, she slipped out of the room.

The reason she’d given him for moving him upstairs was only a half truth. The real reason was a little… selfish.

She wanted him closer to her, so she could bump into him when she walked in the hallway and could share a bathroom with him. It made her blush to think about him walking out of her bathroom wearing the nice robe she bought for him.

And nothing else.

‘Focus! I’ve gotta get Killua so we can pick up Alluka!’

“Kurapika, could you make sure the cats don’t get into the peach cobbler!” she yelled upstairs as she buttoned up Killua’s coat.

He blinked, looking up from the drawer (Name) stuffed full of new clothes for him. ‘Cats? Oh no, the she-devil…’

“I will!”

He walked downstairs as she left, glancing around. “Now, where is it? What was its name again…”

Kurapika scanned the area, grimacing as he made his way towards the kitchen.

The last the blonde had heard, the cat was still at the vet and recovering from giving birth to her kitten. It made sense that it was back, Kurapika had been gone for a month.

‘That kitten must be a month old now. I wonder if (Name) kept it…’

He jumped when he felt something rub against his leg, looking done to see a cream colored kitten with an orange patch on its back. ‘Is this the kitten?’

He reached down to pet it, the kitten purring and butting its head against his palm. “Aww, hey little guy. You like me, huh?”

Kurapika crouched down, scooping up the kitten in his arms and cooing softly as he scratched the top of its head.

This was a mistake, because as soon as the kitten was lifted into the air, it’s eyes went wide as it yowled in surprise.

The sound of something scratching against the floor as it got closer and closer made Kurapika blink. A ball of brown fur appeared in the doorway of Killua’s room, it’s back arched as it approached.

The kitten in his arms squirmed and yowled, causing the cat in front of him to growl and spit. “Shit… hey, hey I’m not hurting it! D-“

Meatloaf got a running start before leaping into the air with its claws extended. Kurapika could only scream.

——————

Kurapika sat behind the kitchen door, holding a hand over his bleeding cheek as he tried to catch his breath. “Jesus Christ… that thing needs an exorcism.”

He stood up and walked towards the sink, splashing some water on his face before holding a paper towel to his cut.

Kurapika tried not to let his eyes wander towards the stovetop where the peach cobbler sat, but the temptation was too strong.

He noticed a small divot in the foil, taking slow steps towards the peach cobbler.

A paw shaped imprint was left in it, and when he pulled back the foil he noticed it went into the peach cobbler as well. “Well… I’ll eat this piece so no one else does. Take on for the team, as Leorio says.”

He followed (Name)’s lead, walking over to the freezer, getting out the ice cream, and fixing himself a serving of peach cobbler.

He sat at the table, a warm and fuzzy feeling washing over him as he ate. “So good… mmm…”

Kurapika felt his stomach drop when he went to scoop up another bite of peach cobbler, only for his spoon to come in contact with the bottom of the bowl.

“…”

He stood up, glancing to the stove, then back to his bowl. “I can’t… I only got another piece to take one for the team…”

But as he approached the stove, pulling back the foil again, he didn’t know if he’d be able to stop himself.

———————

(Name) held onto Alluka’s hand, smiling as the young girl went on and on about her new friends. “Yeah, and we even made friendship bracelets, look!”

She held up her arm to show off a little pink rubber band bracelet. “Oh wow, that’s pretty!”

Alluka laughed and clung to (Name)’s arm, Killua trailing behind them. “I can’t wait to try that peach cobbler, big sis! I’ve never had it before.”

“It’s really good, even if Leorio dislikes it.” Killua spoke up, his hands behind his head as he watched the two, a small smile on his face.

“Well Leorio dislikes any cooked fruit, so I understand.”

The three walked inside, (Name) helping them out of their coats before leading Alluka towards the kitchen. “It’s right in here, you’re going t-“

Kurapika sat at the table, head in his hands. His pants leg and shirt were torn, the signs of catch scratches peeking through the fabric.

On the table was the empty pan of peach cobbler, the foil discarded long ago. Kurapika had given in to temptation, something he didn’t do often.

“Oh, Pika…”

He jumped at the sound of her voice, looking up at her. “I-It’s not what it looks like! I just… the cats! It was the cats!”

Killua poked his head into the doorway. “The cats did what? I know you aren’t blaming my son for whatever you think he did. I don’t care what evidence you h-“

He blinked, looking at the state of the man before him. He was broken and beat down, bits of cobbler clinging to the front of his shirt. “Oh wow. Never mind.”

Killua left the kitchen, leaving Alluka and (Name) to deal with this mess.

“Pika, it wasn’t the cats, was it?”

He looked up to her, his lip trembling. “… no, it wasn’t the cats. I was brutally attacked, though.”

She sighed, turning to Alluka. “I’m sorry sweetheart, I’m going to have to make some more peach cobbler. Go play with your brother.”

Alluka glanced at the blonde, then to (Name). “Is that the guy that was mean to you, big sis? He’s covered in cobbler.”

Kurapika hung his head in shame, now not only for giving into temptation, but at the memory of his past behavior. “Oh, I told Killua to stop telling people about that.”

She gently guided Alluka out of the door. “Go on now, and tell Killua he needs to gossip about things other than my personal relationships!”

Once she was gone, (Name) turned back to Kurapika, the man looking pathetic. “Kurapika…”

He looked up at her shyly. “I’m really sorry, (Name). I don’t know what got into me… it was just too good and… and made me think about my mom.”

She sighed, sitting next to him. “It’s okay, Kurapika but… too much peach cobbler could hurt your tummy and ruin your appetite for dinner.”

Kurapika realized when she placed her hand on his back. “You’re… not mad at me?”

She laughed. “Mad at you? Kurapika, you came into my house today looking like you were about to blow away in the wind like a McDonald’s napkin out a car window. I’ll never get mad at you for eating when you’re hungry.”

(Name) stood up, wiping at his face with her apron. “But, you shouldn’t eat too many sweets before dinner. Ah, but I guess in your case, eating that was like eating a single serving for me, because your nen burns through calories.”

Kurapika nodded, looking down at the dish as if he could still eat. “Honestly, if there was more peach cobbler we wouldn’t be having this conversation because my mouth would be full.”

(Name) snickered. “Yeah yeah, let’s get these scratches disinfected. What did you do to piss Meatloaf off?”

Kurapika grumbled as (Name) sprayed his cuts with disinfectant and placed little Sanrio themed bandaids on them. “… I don’t know, I picked up that kitten and she just came at me like a wild beast!”

(Name) made a face. “That’s her baby, Pika. She’s very protective over him, you can’t just pick up a mothers baby when you’re a stranger in her house.”

Kurapika frowned. ‘Her house? It’s just a cat, an evil, decrepit one at that.’

(Name) took the pan to the sink, filling it with water before taking out the ingredients. “I’m going to make some more peach cobbler, could you call Gon and ask when he’s getting here? Leorio’s supposed to pick him up tonight.”

Kurapika nodded, walking out the door to call Gon.

———————

(Name) grunted as she placed the large baked hen on the counter, wiping her brow.

‘Gon should be here soon, just in time too. All that’s left is for the dinner rolls to finish cooking.’

On cue, she heard the front door open and Killua yell. “Gon!”

(Name) threw her oven mitts onto the counter and ran out the door, pulling Gon and Killua into a hug. “Ugh, now I have all my boys back!”

She tugged Kurapika and Leorio into the group hug. “Oh, and my sweet girl too!” she said, ruffling Alluka’s head.

“Hehe!” Alluka buried her face in (Name)’s shoulder, giggling. “Don’t forget Nanika!”

“Oh, of course. My two sweet girls!”

She kissed Alluka’s forehead twice, once for her and then twice for Nanika. Kurapika watched this, his face flushed and his eyes soft. ‘Cute… she really would be a good mother…’

His face turned a dark shade of red at the thought of her with a baby on her hip, wearing a frilly apron and smiling at him. “Kurapika, welcome home! Say hi to daddy, baby!”

He groaned, stepping away from the hug. Kurapika felt his heart racing, the softness he felt for (Name) almost overwhelming him. He wanted to indulge in her, give into temptation and let his desire take over.

She smelled so nice, the scent of her usual perfume and peach cobbler making his head feel fuzzy. “(Name)… you smell good.”

Killua made a face. “Why are you sniffing my mom? You’re taking this stray dog thing too far.”

Kurapika glared at him, pulling (Name) a little closer so only he was holding her. “At least puppies are cute.”

(Name) laughed, allowing him to hold her. “Oh, so you’re my cute little puppy now, Pika?”

His breath hitched as a blush spread across his face, his cock hardening against her tummy. “P-puppy?”

(Name) felt her face grow hot, Killua scoffing. “Hey, no one is cuter than me, I’m the baby!”

Alluka huffed, tugging on her brothers sleeve. “Hey, technically I’m the baby and I’m objectively the cutest!”

“Objectively? No way!”

As the two argued, Gon and Leorio attempting to calm them down, (Name) glanced up at Kurapika, gently pressing against his bulge. She stood on her tippy toes, leaning in close whisper into his ear.

“You should go upstairs and deal with that before someone notices, puppy~”

She kissed his cheek before walking towards the kitchen to finish up dinner, the blonde staring with his jaw dropped.

He took her advice, running up the stairs, face hot and palms sweaty as he gripped the railing.

———————

A few days passed by quietly, Kurapika settling back into the routine of (Name)’s house. Everyone woke up at around 7-9 am, ate breakfast, then left to do their own things.

Today, however, was different. (Name) had all of the kids bundled up in coats, smiling and taking pictures before turning to Kurapika. “Pika, would you like to come costume shopping with us? The kids haven’t decided what they wanted to be yet, so we’re going to browse. I haven’t got my costume either…”

Kurapika looked up from his laptop, glancing between the three teens then to (Name). “Costumes?”

Killua huffed. “Yeah, for Halloween. But honestly Kurapika, your face is scary enough. I don’t think you need a costume.”

Before the blonde could retort, (Name) placed a hand on Kurapika’s cheek. “Oh stop it, Killua. Kurapika so quite handsome, I think we all know that.”

She smiled, giving his cheek an affectionate pat. Kurapika couldn’t help but blush, gazing up at her with soft eyes. “… I’m come along.”

(Name) squealed, jumping up and down. “Are you going to get a costume too, Kurapika?”

He raised an eyebrow, setting his coffee cup down. “Aren’t I too old for that?”

Killua and Gon grimaced. “Are you forgetting (Name)’s older than you?”

Kurapika blinked and looked to (Name), who was now pouting. “Too old? You’re never too old for a Halloween costume. Besides, I wanted to ask if…”

She looked up at him. “If you wanted to come with me and Leorio to a costume party this weekend.”

The thought of getting to spend more time with her, and away from the children that distracted her made his heart race. “Oh… well, that does sound fun.”

She grinned, pulling him towards the door. “Then put on your coat and let’s go!”

——————

(Name) hummed as she held onto Alluka’s hand while they crossed the street. “Do you three have any ideas on what you’re getting? Did you ask Zushi?”

Killua’s eyes widened. “Oh, no we haven’t, but we’re going to call him so he can help us! And the only idea we have… is ninjas.”

Kurapika snickered. “Oh, is Hanzo your role model or something?”

“No, but he’s a better role model than you.”

The two glared at each other, but (Name) was quick to give them both a look. “Hey, no fighting. We’re going to have fun, and pick out our costumes.”

The two grumbled but listened. Gon, who was holding (Name)’s other hand, laughed. “(Name), you’re just like a mom!”

She laughed as Kurapika blushed behind her. “I guess I am, aren’t I? And you three are my babies!”

She giggled as they walked into the store, squeezing Gon and Alluka’s hands. Kurapika stared at this, feeling his heart thump against his chest. ‘I want…’

He watched as she guided them towards the costume section, following her figure.

‘I want to start a family with her.’

The thought plagued his mind more than once while he was away. Kurapika knew it was wrong to let it linger in his mind, after all he pushed her away for a reason, but he couldn’t stop the fuzzy feeling that overtook him when he imagined marrying (Name), getting her pregnant and having a child together.

He could imagine it now, then living together with a little one on the way. Kurapika would come home after a long day at work and hold his cute little wife in his lap while he rubbed her baby bump. Sweet kisses would turn into lingering touches, before her panties were slipped to the side and he pushed into her, gently bouncing her on his cock. He’d keep his pace slow, a hand on her baby bump to remind him why he was here, why he was still alive.

He shook his head before he could get too hard, glancing back up to see (Name) browsing through the women’s section of costumes. Kurapika decided to approach her, glancing at the costume she had in her hands.

It was a random with costume, with a black dress and witch hat. Even though it was plain, Kurapika’s heart raced thinking about her all dressed and as a little witch. “Is that the one your getting?”

“No, I don’t think I’ll be getting anything here.”

She sounded disappointed, putting the costume back on the rack. “Huh? Why, do you not like the options?”

He glanced down the aisle, spotting multiple costumes that seemed like something (Name) would like.

“It’s not that, Pika. They just don’t have my size. They only go up to a large.”

She showed him the packaging, and he made a face. “But they go up to an extra large in the men’s section, I don’t understand.”

She shrugged, sighing. “Looks like I’ll either have to order something or make my own costume.”

(Name) tried to smile. “Not being a part of the norm means you have to be creative sometimes!”

Kurapika frowned, his eyes following her gaze. She was looking at a pretty angel costume. “… I see.”

The two walked over to the kids section to check on the others.

“You said ninjas!”

“Alluka, we are not going as Naruto characters.”

“But Sakura’s costume is so pink! I love pink!”

(Name) laughed, walking over to the group. She spotted Gon a little further down the aisle, his phone out as he FaceTimed Zushi.

“Hey Zushi!” (Name) called out, leaning into frame. The boy beamed, waving.

“Miss (Name), it’s so good to see you! Mr. Wing told me to tell you he appreciates you letting me stay with you to celebrate Halloween!”

She giggled, waving her hand dismissively. “Oh, it’s no problem, you’re always welcome here, and just (Name) is fine.”

Zushi rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, before Gon spoke up. “Have Killua and Alluka stopped fighting yet? I think I found something we can all agree on!”

“They’re still fighting, but I can fix that.”

Within a few seconds, Alluka was in (Name)’s arms and Killua was trailing behind. The poor girl was sniffling, still clutching the Sakura costume. “I like this one though!”

(Name) patted her back, sighing. “I know, but we don’t always get what we want. Let’s try to have some compromise okay? Why don’t you look at what Gon found before making your decision?”

She snuggled, letting (Name) wipe away her tears. “Okay… thanks big sis.”

She set Alluka down, ruffling her hair a little. The girl gave (Name) a quick hug before she turned to see what Gon found. This made Kurapika smile.

‘These kids really love her.’

“Oh!”

Alluka smiled, holding up a TMNT costume, specifically the Donatello one. “Oh, I love teenage mutant ninja turtles! This is perfect!”

Killua looked to Alluka’s choice, frowning but staying quiet. (Name) noticed this, turning to hold onto his hand. “Killua, what’s wrong?” she asked quietly. The white haired boy huffed, crossing his arms.

“… I wanted to be Donatello. But… it’s okay.”

(Name) tilted her head. “Can’t you both be Donatello? There’s multiple c-“

“Mom, that’s not how it works! There can’t be two Donatellos! Who would be Leonardo then?”

She held up her hands in surrender. “My bad, I didn’t know how passionate you were about this.”

Kurapika tried not to snicker, watching as they picked out their costumes. Gon was Michelangelo, Killua settled on Leonardo, Alluka picked Donatello, and Zushi was okay with being Raphael.

(Name) let the three browse the toy and game section while she helped Kurapika try to find his costume. “Hmm, so what are you thinking about wearing, Pika?”

He blushed, looking around the aisle. “W-well, what do you plan on being?”

She raised an eyebrow, but didn’t ask why that mattered. “Oh, I want to be an angel. But…”

(Name) sighed, looking through some costumes. “They don’t have my size here. I may have to look there again…”

She blushed and started to play with her hair. “There? What do you mean by that?”

Kurapika was curious now, her reaction alone enough to get him asking more questions. “It’s… it’s a lingerie store. Sometimes they sell uh… sexy costumes. I dressed up as a sexy nurse last year when Leorio and I went to a costume party. The costumes are short, but a pair of leggings usually does the trick.”

Now the image of (Name) in a sexy nurse costume was bouncing around his mind. “I-I see. Perhaps I could go with you. To, um, help you pick your costume.”

She held back a laugh, giving him a teasing smile. “Uh huh, sure, you can come with me. Pick out your costume, then I’ll take the kids to Leorio’s so we can do some shopping.”

Kurapika wasn’t sure, but was she… teasing him? He blushed regardless. “I’ll pick out my costume once you find yours then…”

He looked away, clearing his throat. “We can match.”

She felt her cheeks heat up, nodding before she looked away as well. “That… sounds nice.”

As they walked towards the checkout, (Name) couldn’t help but sigh. ‘What are we? We’ve kissed, that stuff in the car happened, and… he tried to finger me while he was sick…’

She didn’t want to get ahead of herself, but most people would assume he had some kind of attraction to her. It was hard for (Name) to believe with him specifically.

She didn’t think she was particularly ugly, but Kurapika had made it pretty clear that he wasn’t interested in her during York New.

‘So why has he been acting so…’

(Name) sighed, scanning the items and putting them in plastic bags. ‘It’s confusing, I never know what he’s thinking or what he truly wants with me.’

He at least considered her a friend, and although she still had feelings for Kurapika, she was fine with just being friends. Hell, part of her wouldn’t mind if all he wanted was someone to fool around with to let off some stress, even if the thought of him using her for her body made her heart ache.

Anything was better than being abandoned again, after all.

————————

(Name) and Kurapika stood outside the lingerie store, the blonde next to her a blushing, stuttering mess. “D-do you come here often?”

She laughed, holding his hand. “No, not really. I’ve only been in here twice.”

Hesitantly, Kurapika allowed her to lead him inside. He’d never been inside a store purely meant for lingerie, and he was already overwhelmed.

“Hello ladies, if you need any help picking something out, please let me- wait, (Name)?”

The woman behind the counter had soft brown hair and big, pink eyes. She left her post, running towards (Name) and hugging her. “Dia? Oh my gosh, how have you been?”

The woman giggled, pulling away from the hug to get a good look at her. “I’ve been great! I just graduated this year, again thank you so much for saving me and mom. If you hadn’t, I wouldn’t have been able to graduate at all!”

Kurapika listened to this conversation with a confused look on his face. “Saved? What does she mean by that, (Name)?”

Dia blinked, looking at Kurapika. “Oh, is this your girlfriend (Name)?”

Kurapika blushed. “I’m not a girl…”

(Name) laughed, patting Kurapika’s arm reassuringly. “This is my friend, Kurapika. He’s a hunter too. And to answer your question, Kurapika, I work as a support hunter for a private company. Sometimes that work includes provide relief to disaster zones. I saved her from a burning building.”

Dia nodded, clinging to (Name). “Yeah, and my mom too! She carried us out like a fire fighter while crying.”

(Name) blushed. “H-hey! You guys were really heavy I’ll have you know!”

Dia laughed, and Kurapika couldn’t help but feel impressed. “(Name) that’s… amazing.”

(Name) waved her hand dismissively. “It’s nothing, I would do it again in a heartbeat.”

Dia smiled and pulled away, glancing back at Kurapika before looking at (Name). “So, what are you here for today? Is he your…”

She glanced at Kurapika with a sly smile, causing the both of them to blush and stutter. “N-no, he’s just a friend. Kurapika wanted to help me pick out my Halloween costume.”

Dia tilted her head, almost looking disappointed. “Halloween costume? You’re lucky, we just got some shipped in today. Come on, I’ll show you the new arrivals!”

Kurapika tried to stay calm, his face neutral as he followed behind the two. It was just lingerie, and he was helping (Name), his dear friend find a Halloween costume. Nothing more, nothing less.

But when they got to the plus sized section and he got a peek at the options laid out before him, it was hard not to imagine (Name) in them and subsequently get hard.

There was a decently wide variety, but the first thing Dia picked up was a devil themed lingerie set that would barely cover anything. Kurapika didn’t even know if it would cover her nipples.

“How about this? It’s our best seller right now!”

(Name) sighed, lifting the bottoms up. “Sorry, but my…”

She glanced at Kurapika, before continuing. “My um… lady bits would not fit in that. My ass would be hanging out.”

Dia tilted her head. “Is that a problem?”

Kurapika was too busy trying to not get hard to hear their conversation. He focused on the floor, counting the tiles.

“It’s for a costume party, so it will have to at least cover my bits. I’d prefer more coverage if possible.”

Dia sighed. “That’ll limit your options a bit. We have a few costumes this way that would probably work.”

(Name) grabbed Kurapika’s hand to lead him away, realizing how embarrassing it must be to shop for lingerie with his female friend. If only she knew that he was imagining her in each item of clothing he saw.

“These are the costumes with the most coverage. There’s only 7, with varying levels of it.”

(Name) looked over her options, humming softly. Kurapika watched as her eyes caught on an angel costume. It was a short, sleeveless white dress with little wings, and angel themed garter belts. Kurapika also noticed it came with a set of white, lacy lingerie.

He already thought of her as an angel, so imagining her in a costume like this wasn’t hard at all.

It was cute, but one look at the price tag made (Name) frown. “Ah, do you think these will go on clearance before this weekend?”

Dia shook her head, giving (Name) a sympathetic look. “No, probably not. Our costumes usually only go on sale after Halloween.”

(Name) sighed, glancing between the costumes. The cheapest option was a frumpy looking mermaid costume, and the lingerie paired with it was underwhelming at best. She picked it up, looking it over and sighing. “I think I’ll-“

Kurapika grabbed the angel costume in (Name)’s size and began walking towards the counter, not giving her a second glance.

“Pika, what are y- hey stop!”

She followed after him, face hot as she attempted to grab his sleeve. Kurapika gave her a look, setting the costume on the counter. “Don’t worry about it, (Name). Consider it payback for the peach cobbler.”

She whined a little, Dia scanning it with a smirk. “Pikaaa! Cobbler costs almost nothing to make, this costume is nearly $100!”

“Well, it’s the only costume for you. You are my angel, after all.”

She blinked, face growing hotter by the second. Kurapika smiled before leaning in to whisper into her ear. “And that was for teasing me the other day.”

He kissed her cheek before pulling back and paying for the costume, Dia staring at them both with shock in her eyes and a light blush on her cheeks. “(Name), I thought you said he wasn’t your boyfriend!”

“H-he isn’t!”

Kurapika had turned to leave, smirking to himself. “Then why did he buy lingerie for you? Is he some kind of pervert?”

The smirk fell from his face, his cheeks turning red. “W-what? Pervert?”

(Name) rolled her eyes, grabbing Kurapika’s hand. “He’s no pervert, he’s just… a little awkward when it comes to giving gifts.”

It was starting to dawn on Kurapika that he had bought (Name) lingerie. Not just a costume. “Wait, I just wanted to buy it for you, I promise it’s not like th-“

(Name) gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. “I know, Pika. You didn’t realize it, it’s fine. It’s still sweet that you bought my costume for me, I really appreciate it.”

He felt his heart thump against his chest, grateful for her understanding. (Name) exchanged numbers with Dia before leaving, never taking her hand out of Kurapika’s.

——————

It was Saturday, and after texting Dia, she agreed to come over and watch the kids for the night. “I really appreciate this, it’s been so long I’ve been able to go out with all my friends!” (Name) said, packing her costume and makeup into her bag. She couldn’t let the kids see what she’d be wearing, so her and Kurapika planned on getting dressed at Leorio’s apartment.

“It’s no problem, I owe you for saving me and mom.”

(Name) left a few $20 bills on the counter. “Here’s some money for dinner, keep anything left over.”

She turned to the three kids, giving them a group hug before cupping Killua’s cheeks.

“Killua.”

He gulped, staring into (Name)’s serious eyes. “Yes, mom?”

“I expect you to be on your BEST behavior tonight, okay?”

He pouted, puffing out his cheeks. “Hey, why aren’t you saying that to the others too?”

“Because if you are chill, the others usually follow suit.”

Killua couldn’t really argue with that, so he just sighed. “I’ll be on my best behavior.”

“Good, now…” she kissed each of their foreheads before grabbing her keys and purse. “I’ll be back late tonight, hopefully in time to tuck you all into bed. Bye!”

Gon patted Killua’s shoulder as she left, noticing Killua’s face falling. Dia turned to the kids, giving them a peppy smile. “So, who wants to play a board game?”

Kurapika looked up from the passenger seat, giving (Name) a shy smile. “Do you think they’ll be okay?”

“Oh, I’ll just be happy if I come back and the house is still intact.”

The two were quiet as they drove to Leorio’s apartment. Kurapika wasn’t the partying type, but he had to admit it was a little exciting.

This wouldn’t be just any ordinary party, it was organized by the Hunter Organization and would be a good chance to mingle with potential allies. Even though it was advertised as a fun party for the adult hunters of the world to have a moment of relaxation with free drinks and food, Kurapika knew that occasions such as these were not usually what they seemed.

“So any adult hunters are invited?”

(Name) nodded, pulling up to Leorio’s apartment. “Mhm, and there’s a strict no violence rule. So Kurapika…”

(Name) killed the car, taking a deep breath before continuing. “That means anyone, and I mean anyone with a Hunters license can attend.”

Kurapika understood what she was implying. He knew at least one of the Phantom Troupe members had a hunters license and had prepared for situations like this. It’s not like Kurapika was a wild animal, he could control his anger and need for vengeance against the Phantom Troupe if it meant keeping his friends safe and gaining something more important.

At least, he was assuming he could. A quick flashback to launching Chrollo into (Name) when he captured the leader of the Phantom Troupe surfaced in his mind, causing him to wince. “Yeah, I understand.”

She placed a hand over his, giving him a comforting smile. “If it helps, from what I heard the phantom troupe member almost never shows up to these kinds of events, I don’t think he even voted in the chairman election.”

Kurapika raised an eyebrow. “Where did you hear that information from?”

(Name) remained quiet, and she almost looked… nervous. “You remember the person I got the information on Dracule Midnight from? It’s the same guy.”

Kurapika stared at her for a moment, eyeing her as she grabbed her purse and put her keys into it. “I see.”

He decided to leave it at that, not wanting to potentially ruin (Name)’s night. She’d been looking forward to this party all week, and he wasn’t going to ruin it over his usual suspicion and paranoia.

But Kurapika couldn’t get over the lingering thought that she was hiding something from him. Something big.

The two walked up to Leorio’s apartment, the tall man opening the door with a smile. “I finally get to see your costume in person! Go on, the bathroom is all yours sunshine. You go ahead, we can get ready out here.”

She gave him a smile before walking to the bathroom and closing the door behind her. Leorio and Kurapika glanced at each other. “So, did you finally decide on something, Kurapika?”

Kurapika dumped his bag onto the couch, answering Leorio’s question by holding up a pair of devil horns. “(Name) helped me choose.”

The two turned away from each other and changed in the living room. Kurapika gave Leorio a look when he saw his outfit. “… really?”

Leorio was wearing a white robe, a pair of sandals, and a fluffy beard. “Yeah. I’m god, I wanted to fit the theme.”

“Uh huh.”

Kurapika pulled on a shirt black hood, placing the little devil horns to the top of his head. When he looked himself in the mirror, he nearly laughed.

“Oh, Kurapika, your horns are crooked!”

The two turned to see (Name) walking out of the bathroom, both of their jaws neatly hitting the floor.

The short white dress clinged her figure, the sweetheart neckline showing off her ample breasts. She pulled at the fabric around her tummy a little, but besides that she didn’t seem to be too upset with her costume.

The garter belts squished against her thighs, soft flesh spilling over them. The halo on her head and wings on her back wiggled a little with each movement.

Leorio was the first to recover, clearing his throat and giving her a flustered smile. “Shit, sunshine, you look hot.”

Kurapika was still recovering, or else he would have sent Leorio a mean glare. He was definitely hard, but thankfully his cape was able to hide the evidence of his arousal.

“Thank you, Leorio. And…”

She walked over to Kurapika, reaching her arms up. When she did, her breasts squished together, giving the blonde a perfect look at her cleavage. She fixed his devil horns before smiling. “There, that’s better.”

She turned around to grab her purse, the two nearly passing out. Her plump ass was barley covered by her dress, and when she moved to pick up her purse Leorio quickly sprinted over. “Woah there, (Name)! That dress is too short to be bending over in. For tonight, just ask me or Kurapika if you need something grabbed, okay?”

She tilted her head. “Hmm? Okay, I understand.”

Leorio picked up her purse, even opting to carry it for her. Kurapika finally found his voice, letting out a soft. “Y-you look so pretty…” before he groaned and his his red face behind his hands.

(Name) felt her face burn, her hands finally leaving the fabric around her tummy. This made the blonde gulp, finally getting a full view of her figure.

He would give anything to have her in his arms, to squish and knead her soft flesh, but right now he had to focus. This party was a good chance to get more information on the eyes, and maybe even the phantom troupe!

She popped her glossy lips in the mirror, looking over her makeup one last time before before she turned to the other two. “Let’s get going, then!”

The three climbed into (Name)’s van, Leorio taking the wheel. “It’s being held in that big hotel in the center of town. Apparently Pariston rented out the whole thing so Hunters out of town could stay for free.”

(Name) seemed to grimace at the mention of Pariston’s name, something that didn’t go unnoticed by the blonde next to her. ‘Do they have some kind of history..?’

Kurapika didn’t want to think of the slimy, former zodiac having anything to do with (Name), but they at least knew each other.

“We’re here.”

Kurapika was quick to get out and rush over to (Name)’s side, offering his hand. “Here, let me help you.”

(Name) giggled, giving him her hand and allowing him to place a hand on her waist to support her as she stepped out. The two checked over her, making sure everything was in place.

“You two worry too much! Even if something rides up, they’ll probably think what I’m wearing underneath is a part of my costume.”

Kurapika nearly had a heart attack, looking down her body. “W-what do you mean by that?”

(Name) raised an eyebrow. “I’m wearing the lingerie that came with my costume. I wasn’t going to, but I figured I might as well, considering how expensive it is.”

She giggled, holding onto her purse. “Who knows? I might even get lucky tonight~”

Kurapika nearly choked on his spit, Leorio quickly patting his back. “E-excuse me?”

(Name) snickered, playing with the hem of her dress. “I don’t know, I heard there’s some pretty handsome new Hunters attending this party, maybe I’ll get lucky.”

Kurapika didn’t answer, gritting his teeth as he clenched his fists in his pockets. “…”

He didn’t want to imagine her in the arms of another man, it made his hands itch. Kurapika wouldn’t know what he would do if someone even thought about touching her tonight.

It seemed like the blonde had a new goal. Make sure she doesn’t get lucky tonight.

Leorio gave the blonde a worried glance. He knew (Name) a lot better than Kurapika did, so he knew she wasn’t being serious. (Name) was a virgin, and she was saving it for someone she loved.

He knew this from… experience.

Leorio shook his head, trying not think of the past, a past where him and (Name) clung to each other after the events of York New. He’d been so worried about her after Kurapika’s harsh words and actions, he stayed with her an entire month.

‘… I still wish I never did that, never made her… made her feel like she owed me…’

Even though (Name) had consoled him time and time again, saying it wasn’t his fault she felt that way, he still felt guilty. They hadn’t had sex, and Leorio was glad. She wasn’t ready, and was only willing to do it due to her desperate need to keep him with her.

He could remember her tears, her trembling arms when he pulled her top off. “(Name)? Sunshine what’s wrong?”

She shook her head, hiccuping, wiping at her tears. “N-nothing! Nothings wrong, you can… you can do whatever you want to me.”

Leorio paused, pulling his hands away from her breasts. “… (Name), sex isn’t something I do to you, it’s something we do together.”

She shook her head, her chest heaving. “Please… please I promise it’s okay, j-just promise you won’t leave me, a-and you can do anything. I promise… I promise I won’t cry, I-“

She felt something her fall onto her cheeks, looking up to see Leorio’s eyes full of tears. “Oh, oh sunshine…”

He pulled her close, kissing the top of her head. “No, no I can’t do that to you. I love you, (Name), and that means staying with you, no matter what. Your body is yours, it isn’t something you should… should feel you have to give me.”

(Name) began to sob, and they held each other. Leorio helped get her dressed, ordering takeout before they crashed on the couch together.

Since then, he hasn’t made a real move on her. It was obvious to him she wasn’t in love, that she was so scared he’d leave that she was willing to do anything. Leorio wanted, loved her, but now that Kurapika was back…

The way she looked at him, teased him, blushed in Kurapika’s presence was something Leorio had never experienced. He wanted to hate Kurapika, but he couldn’t. She loved him so much, so much that Leorio couldn’t help but cheer the blonde on a little. At the end of the day, Leorio wanted (Name)’s happiness more than anything, and if that meant letting Kurapika have her, he would be okay with that.

“Leorio, do you think I’ll be able to stuff some of those fancy chocolates in my purse for the kiddos? You’ll cover for me right?”

Leorio let out a barking laugh, joining her side. “Yeah, only if I get some too.”

——————

Everyone’s eyes were on the three when they walked in.

Well, more like everyone’s eyes were on (Name) and her form fitting costume. Kurapika could already feel the leering glares of several men on (Name), his grip on her hand tightening slightly.

“(Name)!”

Kurapika barely had time to react, (Name) was already being picked up and spun around by a certain blue haired woman. “Menchi!”

The two laughed, (Name) hugging her tight. “Oh, I haven’t seen you in forever!” (Name) said, looking up at her.

She was wearing a chef costume, or perhaps it was just her uniform?

Menchi sighed, patting her cheek affectionately. “Well, I was in York New a few months ago, same time as you. I swear I felt your aura when I was shopping, but then it disappeared.”

“Huh? That’s weird. I would have loved to see you!”

Kurapika looked away, focusing on the floor. When they were shopping for her dress in York New, Kurapika sensed Menchi’s presence and had (Name) use Zetsu so she couldn’t be detected.

(Name) didn’t seem to remember this, so Kurapika stayed quiet. He didn’t like Menchi, and didn’t want to admit he did it out of jealousy.

“So who’s all here? I don’t have everyone’s numbers, so I only knew you and Bisky would be coming.”

Menchi hummed. “Well, I know I saw Satotz and that magician guy.”

Leorio and (Name) groaned. “Not Hisoka. Why is he here, who invited him?”

“Me.”

The two screamed, (Name) jumping into Leorio’s arms. Behind them stood Illumi, dressed in a vampire costume. He had snuck up behind them so quietly none of the three had noticed.

“Holy- we need to put a bell on you.”

Leorio set (Name) down, making sure to check her dress to ensure nothing rode up before he began to step away. “I’m uh… going to go mingle with the others. You two have fun.”

Illumi stared down at the two, Menchi having snuck away moments prior. “(Name). Blonde one.”

Kurapika scowled as he held onto (Name)’s arm protectively. “What do you want, Illumi?”

The dark haired man glanced down to where Kurapika held onto (Name). “… nothing. Just wanted to tell (Name) that I’ll be in town next month.”

She stiffened next to Kurapika, nodding. “Okay, just text me when.”

Kurapika blinked, looking between the two, but didn’t ask anything until Illumi was out of earshot. “Okay, what the hell was that? What business do you have with Illumi?”

(Name) let go of his arm, thinking for a moment before answering. “… he’s the one that helped me get the Kurta cookbook, so I owe him a favor.”

Kurapika paused, glancing at the dark haired assassin as he walked away. “I see.”

Kurapika followed (Name) around as she talked to random Hunters, occasionally tugging her away if their eyes drifted below her face.

“Hey, I wasn’t done talking to him!” (Name) complained as Kurapika pushed her down the hallway.

“He was staring at you inappropriately.” Kurapika said as he stared at her ass while she walked ahead of him.

“Yeah, I know. Didn’t I say I was planning on getting lucky tonight?”

Kurapika’s eye twitched. “Yes, you did say that. However, that’s not happening.”

“Excuse you?”

(Name) turned on her heels, poking a finger into his chest. “I don’t know who you think you are, Kurapika Kurta, but I can do what I want with my body. It’s none of your business. It’s not like you’re my boyfriend or something!”

She huffed and began to walk off, the blonde hurrying to catch up. “W-wait! I just want to make sure you’re… you’re safe! Not all Hunters are good people, for gods sake, Hisoka became a Hunter!”

(Name) paused, her pout fading away into a soft frown. “I can handle myself, but… I appreciate you worrying over me. It’s sweet.”

Kurapika almost felt guilty. He didn’t say these things out of genuine worry, he was jealous, yet she was smiling and thanking him. “… I’m not sweet, (Name),”

(Name) shook her head and grabbed his hand. “You are, Kurapika. You’re always worrying over me, it shows me you really do care.”

Kurapika felt his heart squeeze painfully as she followed him towards a large room. ‘No, if anyone’s sweet it’s you, (Name).’

They walked into the room, spotting Cheadle speaking to some new hunters. “Cheadle! Cheadlee!!”

The woman looked up, seeing (Name) approaching with Kurapika not far behind. “Ahh, Miss (Name). I see you were able to attend after all.”

She was dressed as Sophie from Howl’s Moving Castle, wearing the blue dress from the majority of the movie.

Chairwoman Cheadle offered a hand to shake, (Name) pulling her in for a hug instead. “H-hey! I’m the Chairwoman, have some respect!”

But she hugged (Name) back, huffing. “Well, I guess it’s okay, after all you had to deal with Pariston’s antics.”

Kurapika watched the interaction with wide eyes, still trying to figure out (Name)’s connection to Pariston. “Hehe, sorry Cheadle. I forget that you got the Chairman position after Pariston stepped down.”

Cheadle huffed. “Speaking of Pariston, he’s going around telling people we are matching on purpose, so don’t believe him. He heard I was coming as Sophie and bought a Howl costume before I had time to get another one! He just loves to mess with me…”

(Name) grimaced. “Oh, damn it.”

Kurapika scowled, putting a hand on his shoulder. “Howl is that guy from the movie we watched, correct?”

(Name) groaned, leaning into his shoulder. “Yeah, and he’s my favorite character. Ugh…”

They said their goodbyes to Cheadle before moving to the next room. It seemed to be set up with multiple games, including stuff like bobbing for apples, a few different arcade machines, and carnival games.

“Is that…”

Kurapika watched as (Name)’s face lit up. “Knuckle! Shoot! Morel!”

She sprinted away, squealing and giggling in delight. A man with a black pompadour turned, his face shifting from an annoyed one to one of surprise when (Name) jumped up and into his arms.

“Shit, buttercup is that you?”

Kurapika felt his blood boil when the man held her up like she was a cat, his hands under her arms and dangerously close to her boobs. “Hehe, yes it’s me!”

The man pulled her into a hug, spinning her around before placing her on her feet. “I’m so glad to see you’re doing alright now. You’re quite the little fighter aren’t ya?”

The men beside him turned to greet her, the tallest crouching down to her level and ruffling her hair. “Gave us a real scare back then, ya know?”

The other man, one with purple hair laughed, pinching her cheek. “This one ain’t going down without a fight. Remember what she did to that ant?”

Kurapika wasn’t paying much attention to the conversation, just standing behind (Name) and tapping his foot like a petulant child. “Hey, who’s your friend, (Name)?”

Kurapika kept a hand on her hip, eyeing the men. “Oh, this is Kurapika! We took the Hunter Exam together!”

At the mention of his name, the three grimaced. “I see, he’s the rat zodiac c-“

“Ain’t he that lowlife that broke your wrist?”

(Name) frowned, and suddenly Kurapika wasn’t so testy. “Hey, it was an accident. Damn it, Killua needs to stop telling everyone my business.”

Knuckle squared up to the blonde, looking down at him. Kurapika didn’t falter, staring back up at knuckle with his eyes turning scarlet. “He bothering you, buttercup? I don’t really care for men that lay hands on women, I’ll have you know.”

The black haired man pushed (Name) behind him, keeping an arm held out protectively. “No, he’s not bothering me. Kurapika is my friend, and he already apologized for that.”

(Name) stepped between the two before they could fight, immediately changing the subject. “Anyways, what are you all dressed as?”

Knuckle stared at Kurapika for a second longer before taking a deep breath and turning his gaze to (Name). “Well, I’m a greaser. Shoot’s the grim reaper, and Morel is Frankenstein’s monster.”

(Name) giggled. “Oh, those are excellent costumes! They fit you all so well!”

Shoot smiled, patting her shoulder. “Yeah, and an angel fits you pretty well.”

“Though, I don’t think anything’s angelic about how much skin you’re showing, girlie.” Morel teased.

Her face heated up, and she played with her dress as Knuckle blinked. The man hadn’t taken the time to actually look at her costume, too focused on Kurapika.

“O-oh yeah, you look…”

He stare down at her, now noticing just how much skin she was showing. His eyes landed on her ample breasts, and Kurapika growled. “Her eyes are up here, you creep.”

Knuckle blushed, holding up his hands. “I didn’t mean it! You uh, you look real good buttercup. Hot.”

(Name) laughed, giving Knuckle a reassuring squeeze. “It’s fine, I’m dressed like this for a reason. I don’t mind you looking~”

She smiled up at him, giggling. This made Knuckle short circuit, his hands up in the air as he tried to stutter out a response.

“Ehem.”

Kurapika cleared his throat, his scarlet eyes narrowed as he glared at them. “Can I have a word with you, angel?”

He grabbed her arm, squeezing lightly to make sure she understood. “Oh, sure. I’ll see you guys later!”

(Name) waved to them as she was dragged away, Knuckle scowling. “Should we really let him take her away like that? He hurt her before, and he’s obviously pissed off over something.” Knuckle said, watching their figures as they disappeared from sight.

“He isn’t giving off any malicious aura. And I think we more than anyone understand that she can handle herself.” Morel answered, going back to his game.

Shoot put a hand on Knuckle’s shoulder. “I know you have a soft spot for her, but she’ll be okay. Leorio’s around her somewhere, he isn’t going to let anything happen to her.”

Knuckle sighed, finally looking away from the two. “Yeah, you’re right.”

———————

(Name) whined a little, nearly tripping over her own two feet as she was dragged away by Kurapika. “H-hey, slow down, I’m gonna trip!”

The blonde didn’t respond, but squeezed (Name)’s hand gently. She huffed, but let him continue to pull her away.

That was until they spotted Hanzo lingering in the hallway. Everything happened so quick that (Name) could barely process it.

Kurapika scanned the area, opened up the door to the janitors closet, shoved her in, then pinned her to the wall. “Use Zetsu.”

Under any other circumstances, she may have argued, but (Name) didn’t really want to talk to Hanzo in the first place, so she complied.

They watched his shadow pass under the door, keeping as quiet as they could. (Name) squirmed slightly, feeling Kurapika’s knee between her thighs. He had his hand covering his mouth, and when Hanzo finally left he turned those scarlet eyes on her.

“He’s gone.” (Name) said softly, expecting Kurapika to move.

But he didn’t.

He nodded, looking down at her, his eyes traveling from her face, to her chest, and then to the knee he had between her thighs.

She squeaked when he moved it up to her crotch, her hands shooting out to his chest. “H-hey, what are y-“

In a flash, she was turned around, now facing the wall as Kurapika pressed against her. One of his hands moved upwards to her chest, cupping one of her breasts as the other slipped under her dress. “P-Pika! You-“

“You said you wanted to get lucky tonight, didn’t you?”

(Name) felt her cheeks grow hot, and she couldn’t deny that the feeling of his fingers growing closer to her panties was getting her worked up. “I… I did say that.”

Kurapika leaned in, planting kisses on her neck. “Mhm, you did. And god, it pissed me off.”

She squeaked when he bit down on her neck, his index finger tapping against her clothed pussy. “Can’t even think about someone else touching you…”

(Name) let out a shaky breath when he began to rub her through her panties, whining softly. “Kurapika…”

He continued nipping at her neck, gently sucking on her sensitive skin. “Shh, you don’t want anyone to hear us, do you?”

(Name) pouted, but quieted down, squeezing her eyes shut. “There, that’s my good girl. Only I get to hear those sounds, you got it? Only me.”

She felt his hard on press into her ass as he continued to rub her through her panties, his index finger finding her clit. He paused when she let out a soft moan, bucking her hips into his hand.

“Does that feel good, angel?”

He rubbed circles into her clit, kissing up her neck and jaw. “Mhm… r-right there, stay right there.”

He smiled against her cheek before tilting her head to the side to steal a kiss. “So pretty… my angel, I just want to make you feel good, okay?”

She whimpered into his mouth, feeling his tongue slip into hers. “Mmph..!”

She was getting close, beginning to buck her hips into his hand. “P-Pika! Pika!”

He groaned, her ass pressing right into his crotch. “That’s it, almost there. Just focus on my fingers, okay angel?”

She nodded, holding onto the wall, letting out a mewl as she came. When her legs buckled, he caught her with an arm around her waist. “You did so good, angel. Now let’s-“

A loud bang on the door made the two jump, Kurapika having to support her so she didn’t fall over. “(Name), Kurapika, are you in here?”

‘Damn it, Leorio!’ Kurapika cursed in his mind, looking down at the woman in his arms. She was still recovering from her orgasm, clinging to his shirt and whimpering. “Yeah, we’re in here. She had a wardrobe malfunction so I needed to fix it.”

“Ah, okay. I’ll be waiting in the next room, hurry up they brought out drinks, and Kite wants to see (Name)!”

Leorio’s footsteps retreated away, Kurapika sighing before looking down at her. “… you alright, (Name)? Can you stand?”

She nodded slowly, letting Kurapika pull her to her feet. “Yeah…”

(Name) was avoiding eye contact, her face hot and her legs a little wobbly. His hands travelled her body, playing with the hem of her dress. “We can… continue after you talk with Kite if y-“

“I have to go to the bathroom!”

Kurapika blinked, watching her rush out of the closet and to the women’s bathroom. He was left alone, his heart thumping against his chest. ‘Oh, oh shit. Did I do something wrong? Did she… not like it?’

He looked down at his hand, biting his lip. He brought his finger to lip, gently lapping up her juices.

Kurapika’s eyes shot open, quickly closing the door and locking it. ‘Fuck!’

He’d need to deal with his aching cock before he could even think about leaving. ‘She… she tastes so good…’

———————

(Name) sat on the toilet, trying to clean up the cum dripping down her legs as best as possible. When there was no more evidence of her cum, she stood up and left the stall, walking over to the mirror.

She groaned, washing her hands before she placed a finger over her neck. There were the beginnings of hickeys on her skin, and if she didn’t cover them, everyone would notice. ‘Shit… I didn’t have these before, everyone will know someone gave me these at this party!’

She wanted to be upset, but she couldn’t. It felt good, and to have all of Kurapika’s attention on her was something she thought she could only imagine. He’d touched her, kissed her, and god she wanted more.

‘Why did I run away?’

(Name) sighed, trying to cool off the hickeys with cold water to hopefully make them go away as she thought this over. It wasn’t that she didn’t like it, she really did, but…

‘You disgust me.’

Her insecurities were still holding her back, the fear that he only wanted her for her body making it hard to let go. Even after he reassured her that she was important to him, it still lingered in the back of her mind.

Besides, she wanted to give her virginity to someone she loved.

‘Do I love Kurapika?’

This is something she had been asking herself almost daily since he came back into her life. At one point, she did, but…

‘I’m… definitely attracted to him…’ she thought, still feeling the fuzzy feeling in her tummy from her orgasm. ‘And I do like him, romantically…’

But did she trust him to not leave as soon as he got to sleep with her? It made her heart hurt to doubt him, but she did.

She didn’t even know if he liked her, or if he just wanted a sexual relationship. (Name) felt her tummy twist in knots, her eyes brimming with tears. She was conflicted, was she okay with doing more with him?

Before she could think of this anymore, the bathroom door opened, and a familiar head of blonde hair came into view, two twin tails bouncing as the girl walked closer.

“B-Bisky!” (Name) attempted to hide her hickeys, but Bisky only scoffed. She was wearing a princess peach costume, already pulling off her long white gloves.

“Oh honey, I saw those the second I walked in. There’s no hiding them.”

(Name) groaned, leaning against the sink. “Everyone’s going to see, I’ll be so embarrassed…”

She thought back to Kurapika’s words, feeling herself grow wet again. ‘Was he… was he jealous?’

Bisky patted her back, giving her a reassuring smile. “I might have something that can help.”

The woman pulled a pink, fluffy scarf out of her bag, holding it out to her. “Here, hun. This should help.”

(Name) sniffled, wiping her eyes before wrapping it around her neck. “Thank you, Bisky… this is better.”

Bisky gave her a hug, patting her back. “It’s good to see you again. What happened to have you in such a tizzy?”

(Name)’s cheek heated up again, her eyes looking to the floor. “W-well… my friend and I… we um…”

She twiddled her thumbs. “We didn’t have sex, b-but he rubbed me through my panties and gave me these hickeys.”

Bisky blushed. “Oh wow, are you talking about that tall handsome one? (Name), you naughty girl!”

She squeaked and shook her head. “N-no, it wasn’t Leorio! It was Kurapika…”

“The blonde brat? Oh, you could do such much better than that. He’s so… thin and-“

(Name) puffed out her cheeks. “Well I like him! He’s a little skinny, but I don’t mind! He can be really sweet and…”

She played with her hair, feeling butterflies flutter in her tummy. Bisky sighed, closing her purse and walking towards the sink to wash her hands. “You must really like this boy, (Name). You’re all flustered.”

(Name) nodded, pulling her scarf around herself tighter. “I… I do like him.”

Bisky smiled. “Then go for it. He obviously likes you if he got his fingers all up in your p-“

“Bisky!”

(Name) covered her face in embarrassment while Bisky rolled her eyes. “Oh, hush. Now why don’t you go enjoy the party? I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

(Name) nodded, about to leave. “Wait.”

She stopped, turning. “You bought another costume from that store, didn’t you? I told you to call me if you needed to find something in your size, you deserve to wear whatever you want.”

(Name) whined. “But you were busy, I didn’t want to bother you!”

Bisky huffed. “Hey, you’re my sweet (Name), I don’t mind spoiling you every once in a while!”

She patted (Name)’s shoulder, the younger girl pouting a little. “Don’t be a brat, I’ll be sending you some new dresses as soon as I get home, and you’ll like them!”

(Name) nodded. “You really don’t have to, Bisky…”

“But I want to. Now shoo!”

(Name) hurried out, taking a deep breath before entering the hallway.

———————

Kurapika sat in a corner, trying not to cry as Leorio consoled him. “I’m an idiot, fuck what if she hates me now?”

Leorio sighed, patting his back. “Kurapika, I don’t think she hates you. She was probably just embarrassed. Or was um…”

He cleared his throat, feeling himself grow aroused just thinking of it. “She may have been dripping, Kurapika. That’s most likely why she ran to the bathroom.”

Kurapika sniffled, wiping his eyes. “You think so? She doesn’t hate me or thinks I’m a creep?”

“How many times do I have to say she likes you before you actually get it through your thick skull? If you could’ve seen how she acted after-“

Leorio paused, but Kurapika had an idea of what he meant. The blonde looked to the floor, sighing. “I know I hurt her, but… but I really want her. I want…”

Kurapika blushed, his heart thumping wildly against his chest. “I want to be with her.”

Leorio didn’t say anything, his face neutral. “… then show her you care. You should try asking her on a date.”

Kurapika choked, coughing and patting his chest. He told himself he would do just that as soon as he got back, but he chickened out last minute. “A date… I’ll… I’ll do it.”

Leorio patted his back before helping out. “You’ll do it tonight?”

Kurapika’s breath hitched. “No, no I’ll need time. If I do it tonight I’ll have a nervous breakdown.”

Leorio laughed. “Yeah, okay man. You should do it soon, though. You’re not her only admirer, not by a long shot.”

Kurapika stiffened at this, his eyes flashing scarlet. “… and you’re one of them, aren’t you Leorio?”

Leorio sighed, putting a hand on his hip. “I am, and don’t get the wrong idea. I’m helping you because she really likes you and I want her to be happy. If you hurt her again Kurapika…”

He placed a hand on the blonde’s shoulder, his grip tightening. “Then I’ll make sure you never get to see her again. Just remember that.”

Kurapika stayed quiet, pushing past Leorio and walking out the door. “I’ll keep that in mind.”

As (Name) moved through the building, she felt like she was being… watched. Something was following her, staying in the shadows to try and hide.

“Who’s there?”

She tried to remain calm, but was trembling just a little. She knew Hisoka was there, and the two didn’t exactly have the best track record.

“It’s just me, (Name).”

She nearly screamed when a figure appeared in front of her, pulling her in to a nearby room.

“W-what are you doing here, Shalnark?”

The perky blonde in front of her grinned, glancing down at her costume for a moment before holding a finger over his lips. “Shh, your little boyfriend is here, right? You shouldn’t say my name so loud.”

She pouted, crossing her arms over her chest. “Damn it Chrollo… Shal, he’s not my boyfriend!”

Shalnark snickered, keeping her pinned against the wall. “Yeah yeah, whatever. That doesn’t matter. The boss asked me to attend last minute so I could tell you that we’ll need you this week, Monday to Wednesday. Meet us in the York New airport at 3pm Monday afternoon, sharp.”

He patted her cheek playfully before pulling out his phone and snapping a picture of her. “H-hey, what was that for?”

He shrugged, walking towards the door and pulling the black hood of his cloak back over his head. “Don’t worry about it.”

Then, he was gone. (Name) could only hope he left the party all together. If he bumped into Kurapika, it would be a catastrophe.

She sighed, leaving the room and making her way towards Kite.

————————

Kite sat on a couch, Hisoka and Illumi lingering nearby. The room was somewhat crowded, but there was always space around them, as if people were scared to get too close. “(Name), you’re here.” Kite said as (Name) wiggled her way to them through the crowd.

“Kite!”

They could see the tears welling up in her eye, and Kite couldn’t help but smile and open their arms. (Name)’s lip trembled and she fell into their lap, crying into their shoulder.

“I’m so sorry… if I had stayed with you, m-maybe you wouldn’t have to-“

Kite laughed, patting her back. “You know it wouldn’t have ended any different, (Name). If you had stayed, you would have died then too.”

She went quiet, hiding her face in their shoulder. Kite looked different now. They had long red hair, a woman’s body. But they were still the same Kite she knew before, their aura kind and strong.

“I didn’t even get to see you before you left, I was still in the hospital…” she said softly as Kite wiped away her tears. Kite sighed.

“I know, I was going to visit you, but you were resting and I didn’t want to wake you and Killua up. I left you some poppies, though.”

She gasped, looking up at them. “That was you? I still have them in my garden!”

Kite nodded, a smile tugging at their lips. “I’m glad you liked them. We were all real worried about you, (Name). After all, you did d-“

As they continued to speak, Hisoka watched, a smirk on his lips. “I’ve been waiting to see her since Killua took Alluka back.”

Illumi hummed. “That’s because I forbid you from interfering with her. After what happened with the Chimera Ants, she was placed at the top of the potential threats lists for the Hunter Association. Even I’m not sure why she isn’t under constant surveillance. After she took Killua and Alluka in, I stepped back. I can’t just force myself in, her nen and range is too powerful to risk it.”

Hisoka leaned against the bar, laughing. “So that’s why you’re going about it in a more… subtle way?”

Illumi nodded, sipping on his drink. “If I can take her as a bride, not only will I have her power at my disposal, but Alluka and Killua will be in the palms of my hands. They care for that woman too much, really.”

The two continued to watch (Name), keeping their distance. Hisoka stretched slightly. “I don’t think that’s the entire truth though, is it, Lumi? Your heart beats faster when you look at her.”

The man scoffed, finishing his drink. “It’s because I’m excited to finally have all of that power to myself.”

But they both knew he was only telling half truths.

(Name) sat comfortably in Kite’s lap for a little longer, catching them up on her life. “Yeah, Gon is visiting for Halloween. Are going to come visit?”

“Unfortunately I can’t. I’ll be leaving in the morning and be gone on a mission until late November.”

Kite cupped her cheek when she pouted. “Oh, don’t pout (Name). I’ll still be able to make it to your little fall celebration. Gon will be there, correct?”

(Name) nodded, her eyes lighting up. “Yeah, he will be! It takes place near the end of November, I’ll text you the date when I get home!”

Kite smiled, helping her up before they walked over to the bar. “I’ll see you then, (Name). Your friends are waiting for you, go on.”

(Name) turned to see Leorio and Kurapika waiting by the door, Kurapika’s face and eyes a soft red.

“Okay… bye, Kite!”

She gave them one last hug before walking off, looking over her shoulder to see Kite watching her go with a soft look in their eyes.

“(Name)…”

Kurapika’s eyebrow twitched slightly when he saw the scarf covering the marks he left on her. “Hello, Pika…”

She seemed shy now, holding onto his and Leorio’s hands. “Let’s get some drinks and go dance! We have another hour before we have to be home.”

——————

Kurapika was deemed the designated driver, mostly due to him not being the biggest fan of drinking. The last time he did, he embarrassed himself and clung to (Name) like a child.

But now he was starting to wonder if he should have let Leorio take the responsibility of DD as he watched the two giggle and dance together. He was almost jealous as he sipped on his cola, making a face when Leorio spun her around before resting his hands on her hips.

“Ah, you’ve been staring at her a lot, Kurta. I didn’t know you and (Name) were close.”

Kurapika took a deep breath and exhaled through his nose before putting a tired smile on his face. “Hello, Pariston. I see you’re as annoying as usual.”

The man next to him smiled, sitting down as he watched the two dance with Kurapika. “Annoying, maybe, but am I wrong, Kurta? Your eyes have rarely left her tonight. And I heard Leorio found you two in a closet.”

Kurapika’s cheek lit up a bright red. “… that’s none of your business, Pariston. Who I look at has nothing to do with you.”

“Oh, but it does. That woman… she’s quite special, you know? Not many people have accomplished what she has. Hell, if I hadn’t been in town when it happened, I wouldn’t have believed it myself.”

Kurapika’s eyes narrowed, the blonde setting his glass down on the bar. “What the hell are you talking about?”

Pariston smirked, leaning against his seat. “Oh, I forgot. She hasn’t told you, has she? Not that many people know what happened in the first place, and you weren’t picking up the phone when it took place.”

Kurapika felt his annoyance rising. “Are you talking about chimera ant incident? (Name) was involved!?”

Pariston put a finger to his lips. “Indeed she was, a key player you could say.”

The man downed a shot as he eyed (Name). “I can’t tell you anymore than that, though. I have an agreement with her.”

Kurapika growled, turning towards the man. “I swear to god, just t-“

“Kurapika, come dance with usss!”

(Name) was squeezing through the crowd, being steadied by Knuckle then caught by Leorio when she nearly tripped. She paused when she saw Pariston, her eyes narrowing.

“Pariston.”

The dirty blonde haired man grinned, looking her up and down. “(Name), it’s a pleasure to see you. You’re looking rather… divine.”

She didn’t seem impressed, grabbing Kurapika’s hand. “Come on, Pika.”

He couldn’t argue, especially not when she was pressing up against him, giggling and dancing. But as he spun and held her, Kurapika couldn’t help but think back to Pariston’s words. ‘What is she hiding from me?’

Kurapika sighed as the party began to wind down, his two friends now thoroughly drunk. (Name) was leaning against his shoulder, soft giggles and slurred words leaving her lips. “This was fun… but gotta… gotta get home to the kids.”

She attempted to stand, but fell back and into Kurapika’s lap. He steadied her, his hands drifting to her plush hips. “Hey, let me carry you, angel. Leorio, come on, we’re leaving.”

Leorio finished his drink. “Ya gonna carry me too, Kurta?”

Kurapika scoffed, carrying (Name) on his back. “Absolutely not.”

Leorio pouted playfully, standing up and following the two. “You’re no fun.”

(Name) wrapped her arms around Kurapika, moving to kiss his cheek. “Thank you, Pika…”

He blushed, readjusting her on his back and holding onto her thighs. “It’s no problem, (Name). I’ll always be here to carry you home.”

She hummed against his neck, before planting a wet kiss on it. “Mmm… you made me feel really good earlier, Pika…”

His breath hitched, his heart thumping against his chest. “(Name)… what do you think you’re doing?”

She giggled, gently nibbling and kissing his neck. “Giving my Pika some kisses… muah muah!”

He stuttered, face going red. “W-what? I…”

It felt nice, her lips on his neck soft and warm, but she was drunk. He set her on her feet, brushing her hair out of her face. “Angel, you can’t… give me kisses right now. You’re not yourself.”

Her lip trembled, her pretty (e/c) eyes looking up at him filling with tears. “Y-you don’t want my kisses? But we kissed in the closet earlier…”

Now Kurapika was panicking, attempting to soothe her and wipe away her tears.

Leorio snickered next to him. “Heyy, what about me, (Name)?”

She sniffled, then looked up at Leorio, reaching for him. “Lemme give my Leorio some kisses too…”

Kurapika blinked, seeing the two leaning in to kiss, and quickly pulled her away. “H-hey! No, you’re both drunk!”

(Name) whined in his arms and struggled as she tried to get to Leorio. “But m-my Leorio needs kisses! Why are you being so m-mean!”

She began to cry and hiccup, Leorio sighing softly. “Shhh, s’okay, (Name). Let’s get home.”

Kurapika held her to his chest, rubbing soothing circles into her back. If he wasn’t so jealous in the moment, he would think her need to give her friends affection was quite cute. “Come on, let’s get you in the car.”

He drove them home, the car parked crooked as he tried to get out as fast as possible. Kurapika caught the two inching closer through the rear view mirror, having to pull (Name) out by the waist before her and Leorio’s lips could touch.

“Hey..!” she wiggled and squirmed, but was too drunk to hold onto her frustration for long. After a minute, Kurapika was able to carry her inside and up the stairs with no problems.

“You are a real pain to deal with, (Name).” he teased, setting her down on her bed. She pouted at him, eyes half lidded as she looked up.

“And you’re mean… got me all worked up, and I don’t even know if you like me…”

She huffed, pulling her blanket up to her chin and turning away from him. Kurapika felt his heart squeeze painfully. The blonde sat down next to her, playing with her hair.

“… (Name), you mean a lot to me. Really, you do. I just… it’s hard for me to give into my feelings. If I do, then my goals may be at stake. It would be selfish of me to fall in love, but… at the same time I want to. I want to be with you, and-“

The sounds of her soft snores made him blink. Had she heard anything he said? From the look of her peaceful face, probably not.

He pushed a piece of hair out of her face, placing a kiss on her forehead. “Goodnight, (Name).”

————————

The next two days, things were a bit awkward between (Name) and Kurapika. They both had hickey they gave one another, and were still trying to comprehend the things they did together at the costume party.

As Monday rolled around, (Name) walked down the stairs with her suitcase, Kurapika jumping up and taking it from her. “Here, let me.”

She blushed, looking away shyly as he took it from her. Being around him wasn’t easy, she could already feel herself growing wet just thinking about the way he touched her. His words then made her so fucking horny, and the way his hand held onto her waist as he guided her outside made her stomach do backflips.

The kids were already gone, staying the first night with Leorio so he could study in his apartment and watch them at the same time. “I’ll be back Wednesday, I made some premade meals, all you have to do is warm them up.”

Kurapika nodded, placing her suitcase in her van. “… are you sure you don’t want me to come with you?”

She bit her lip. “It’s a solo mission, a favor in exchange for a favor.”

The blonde frowned. “Why won’t you tell me anything about this informant? Don’t you trust me?”

Even Kurapika knew using that line was a little manipulative, but god he was tired of things being hidden from him. He needed to know more.

She blinked, cranking up the van before answering. “Kurapika, it’s not that I don’t trust you. The person just… doesn’t like meeting with strangers.”

This was a blatant lie, and before Kurapika could call her out on it, she kissed his cheek. “I have to get to my flight before I’m late. Bye, Pika.”

He was distracted by the kiss just long enough for her to get into her van and drive away. Now Kurapika was alone, standing in the driveway and watching her go with a soft look in his eyes.

‘Wait… I’m home alone…’

His mind went back to Saturday night, when he got a taste of (Name) for the first time. Kurapika had been waiting for an opportunity like this, and now that he was alone, he could act on his plans.

The blonde walked back inside and up to (Name)’s bathroom. Thankfully, she hadn’t washed the dirty clothes in her hamper yet, meaning…

Kurapika dig through the clothes, and swallowing thickly when he found what he was looking for.

A pair of used panties.

Over the next few days, Kurapika lost buckets of cum, almost turning animalistic when being able to smell and taste her while jerking off.

———————

(Name) was finally home, walking inside only to immediately be tackled by all of the kids. “Mom!”

Killua clung to her, Alluka jumping onto her back and Gon tugging at her arm. “Hey, lay off, she just walked in the door!”

Leorio picked all three of them up, Kurapika grabbing her suitcase. For some reason Kurapika looked… super relaxed? “Welcome home, (Name). I hope everything went well.”

He smiled at her, his eyes gentle and cheeks pink. She blinked, giving him a smile in return. ‘What the hell happened while I was gone?’

After unpacking, (Name) began planning out Halloween, which was only a week away now. Zushi would be flying in two days before and leave November 2nd, so she’d have to pick up from the airport and make sure an air mattress was ready for him.

She spent the week leading up to Halloween decorating, making themed treats, and watching movies with her friends. There was also some last minute fixes to their costumes that needed to be tended to.

The day came for Zushi to be picked up, and she brought the kids along to greet him. “Zushi!”

Gon and Killua ran to meet up with him, the three hugging and smiling. “I can’t believe Master Wing let you come! He’s usually so strict.”

Zushi laughed, shouldering his backpack. “Well, he’s busy this week anyways, so it was better for me to come so he could get some business done!”

The four chatted up a storm on the way home, Alluka being introduced to Zushi and vice versa.

“Just tell me if you need anything, okay Zushi? I sleep upstairs, but don’t feel afraid to wake me up. If you’re too scared to, just ask Killua.”

This was the first time Zushi was staying over, and she could tell he was a little nervous. She tucked the boy in, giving him a kiss on his forehead before standing up. “Thank you, Miss (Name).”

She smiled, seeing the other two were already asleep. “Goodnight, kiddo.”

The four went to the creek at dawn, coming back at lunch time covered in mud, but happy. This repeated everyday, (Name) making sure they had a good time.

On the day of Halloween, they were all getting ready, (Name) wearing a simple black dress and witch hat. There was no way she’d be wearing her angel costume, it wasn’t very appropriate for trick or treating.

She was currently bent over, straightening out Alluka’s green bodysuit before tying her mask. “Oh, sweetheart you look so cute!”

Alluka giggled in delight, spinning around before pulling out her foam staff. “Look at my staff! I’m gonna beat up all the bad guys!”

(Name) nodded, patting her head. “Mhm, but try not to actually hit anyone. Your brother already causes enough trouble all on his own. Speaking of, where are those t-“

“I said no, Gon! Those are dangerous!”

She sighed, standing up and walking towards Kurapika’s room. Gon was holding Kurapika’s weapon in his hands, pouting. “But Kurapika, they’re perfect for my costume! I promise I won’t unsheathe them, I just-“

The blonde took them and put them on a high shelf. Killua was about to jump up and grab them for Gon, but (Name) cleared her throat, tapping her foot. “Boys, listen to Kurapika. He’s right, they’re dangerous. Even if you two can handle them, it’s possible you could end up hurting someone else. Remember, there will be other kids trick or treating.”

Leorio walked in, grabbing the nunchucks. “I think I’ll keep these with me. I know your little tricks, Killua.”

“Tch…” he kicked the ground, shoving his hands in his pockets.

“All of you, out now.”

“But I live here!”

“Yeah, and trick or treat is only until 7pm. Plus I want to watch a scary movie.”

Killua complained as he walked towards the door, only turning back to stick his tongue out at Leorio. (Name) smiled up at him. “Are you sure you’re fine with handing out candy, Leorio? You could always come with us.”

Leorio shrugged, cupping her cheek. “If I don’t hand out candy, they’ll egg your house, it happened to the neighbors last year.”

(Name) laughed, leaning into his touch. “I wish they’d try it. I’d send Killua after their asses. He’d maul them.”

“I would!”

Alluka giggled, holding onto Killua’s arm. “Ooo, I wanna maul someone too! No one gets to be mean to my big sis!”

Kurapika walked out of his room, wearing a sweater and slacks. He took (Name)’s hand, squeezing it. “Are we ready to go, angel?”

She felt her face heat up, giving a quick nod. “Mhm, let’s get going.”

———————

Kurapika walked down the street, hand in hand with (Name). Something felt so domestic, so soft about talking the kids trick or treating. He could almost imagine they were their kids, and that this was his family.

Almost.

They stood at a distance, watching the kids knock on a door. A man that looked to be in his late 30s opened the door, poking his head out and scoffing. “Ah, it’s you. Ain’t you a little too old to be trick or treating?”

“Aren’t you a little too young to be twice divorced?”

The man was silent after that, giving the four their candy.

“How do you even know about that?” (Name) asked as they walked to the next house.

“I like to keep a tab on all of the neighbors. Just in case I need to blackmail them for something.”

“Killua.”

“I’m joking! Mostly.”

They go to a few more houses and no problems arise. Kurapika and (Name) were chatting as the kids walked up to the next one, giving each other shy looks and occasionally laughing.

That is as until they heard a car alarm going off and watched the four sprint past them. “Go, let’s go!”

Killua yelled out as he sprinted down the street. The two glanced at each other before following suit. “The hell did you do?”

“She was giving our raisins! On Halloween! So me and Alluka whacked her car with our weapons!”

(Name) wanted to laugh, they were totally running like little ninjas and she almost found it cute. Kurapika, however, wasn’t having any of it.

Once they were far enough, Kurapika confiscated all of their foam weapons. “Alright, that’s enough of that. If you can’t behave, you don’t get these.”

Gon and Zushi whined. “But we didn’t do anything!”

“Yeah, but you didn’t stop them either. If you keep your toys, you two would buckle and let them use them.”

Kurapika wasn’t wrong, Gon and Zushi weren’t exactly strong willed when it came to giving in to their friends.

Nanika appeared, holding onto (Name)’s arm. “Momma, why is Kurapika being mean to Alluka and big brother?”

(Name) smiled. “Nanika, hello! It’s been a while since I’ve seen you.”

She picked up the girl, letting Nanika hold onto her shirt and rest her head on her shoulder. “He’s not being mean, he’s just making sure no one gets hurt.”

Nanika sniffled, clinging to her. “Momma, Alluka is upset. She wants her toy back.”

“I know, but we can’t always get what we want. She needs to be a brave girl.”

Nanika nodded, and (Name) carried her to the next house. “Alluka must be tired, are you staying out for a bit?”

“Mhm. I want to trick or treat too!”

(Name) almost felt a little bad. She hadn’t even thought to ask if Nanika wanted to join them, or if she wanted to have a separate costume. “I’m sorry, Nanika. I should have invited you to come with us, I didn’t even think about it.”

“S’okay momma. I’m just happy I get to see you and big brother…”

Nanika didn’t want to let go of (Name), so she walked with the rest when they trick or treated. This wasn’t too bad, because now she got to keep a better eye on them. It did leave Kurapika the odd one out though, the blonde having to wait alone for them to finish.

Nanika opened a piece of her candy, eating it as she held onto (Name)’s arm. “It’s so good, momma!”

She ruffled the girls hair. “I’m glad you like it, love. Make sure to save some for Alluka, okay?”

“Kay!”

Killua held onto (Name)’s other arm, chewing on some gum. “Do we really have to go home now? It’s only 6:30!”

She laughed, patting his back. “Yeah, but do you see any lights on? We can go from house to house and get nothing, or we can go home, order some pizza, then eat all those treats I made.”

Killua thought for a second. “Let’s go home then.”

Kurapika watched the two cling to her as he carried Gon on his back and held onto Zushi’s hand. ‘They’re so cute, even Killua.’

Maybe he was getting used to this, but the thought almost made him… anxious. The only thing he felt right now was peaceful, and that wasn’t good.

‘The only thing that scares me is that my rage will fade away with time.’

He took a deep breath, following them. ‘I won’t lose my rage, even if it means…’

Kurapika swallowed thickly.

‘Even if it means I have to distance myself.’

——————

After eating pizza and pigging out on the Halloween themed sweets (Name) made, the kids headed to their room to watch some Halloween movies and settle down for the night. Alluka made some room for herself on Killua’s bed, (Name) giving them all a kiss on their foreheads before walking downstairs.

“Just in time, sunshine. The next movie is starting and I got you those fruity drinks you like.”

He handed her a strawberry flavored beer, Kurapika already sipping on a similar one. “Ah, so we’re getting drunk and watching horror movies? Sounds fun.”

She plopped down between the two, talking the drunk and chugging half of it. After it began to set in, (Name) hummed happily, pulling the throw blanket she had over her. “Hey, let me get some of that, it’s cold.”

Leorio scooted towards her and took a bit of her blanket. Kurapika didn’t like this, instantly moving closer as well. “I’m also cold.”

Now, (Name) was sandwiched between the two, and she couldn’t be any happier. She pulled them both close and planted a kiss on each other of their cheeks.

Leorio was quick to fall asleep, only a few beers in. Once he did, Kurapika pulled (Name) a little closer, leaning his head against her shoulder. “This has been fun, I’ve never really celebrated Halloween before.”

(Name) hummed, now a little tipsy. “I’m glad you got to celebrate with us. Wouldn’t be the same without you.”

Kurapika blushed, sighing in contentment. The alcohol was making him a little braver, so he glanced up at her, his hand beginning to move from his lap to hers.

“Do you want t-“

He stopped when the he heard the kids’ room open. “Miss (Name)? Where’s the candy bucket, I want more snickers.”

“It’s in the kitchen bud, do you want me t- oh my god!”

Zushi stood behind them, his face a little swollen and red.

“I love snickers, you know how when your face gets all puffy and you start sweating because it’s so good?”

“No?! Buddy that sounds like a nut allergy.”

“Master Wing never lets me have them, but there’s a bowl and he’s not here to stop me!”

(Name) stood and stumbled to the kitchen to grab the epipen she kept in case of emergencies while Kurapika handed him some skittles. “Eat those instead. Leorio!”

Kurapika began to shake Leorio awake, the man groaning and looking to where Kurapika was pointing. “Aww, bud you look awful. What happened?”

(Name) used the epipen on Zushi, the boy squeaking. “I think he had an allergic reaction to the peanuts in the snickers. Sweetheart, no more snickers. Just stick to these skittles okay?”

He pouted, but began to eat the skittles as his swelling began to go down.

Once Leorio checked over him to make sure he was okay, he walked back to join the others. (Name) sat back down, looking to Kurapika with a smile. “What we’re you going to say, Pika?”

The situation had sobered him up a bit, and his courage had faded away. “Nothing, I forgot.”

She nodded, leaning her head against his shoulder. “Oh, okay…”

He cursed himself for chickening out on asking her on a date again. ‘I’ll do it next time, I will.’

The three watched horror movies late into the night, drinking and laughing at the bad jump scares. Eventually, Leorio and (Name) fell asleep, the former laying his head on her lap.

Kurapika played with her hair, planting kisses on her forehead. Those feelings of his kept growing, making his head spin and heart pound. Moments like this, where she was leaning against his shoulder and sleeping peacefully made him fall even deeper in love with her.

And that was a problem. He felt so conflicted. Something about this felt so right. Of course she was supposed to be there, in his arms, she was his love, his dearest friend.

But something also felt incredibly wrong. Why was he here, relaxing and drinking while his clan’s eyes were still in the hands of those who only wanted to use them? Did he really deserve to feel so happy, so content when his people couldn’t even properly rest in peace?

After a bit, Kurapika picked (Name) up, carrying her upstairs again. He didn’t mind it, really, she felt nice and warm in his arms. It reminded him that she was alive, brimming with life and love.

But just being near him could bring about her death. The very thought of it made his blood run cold, his chest ache. The thought of losing her made him want to throw up.

He sat her down on her bed, looking over her. She was beautiful really, her face a little hot from the alcohol and hair messy, but he wouldn’t have her any other way.

Before he could leave, she grabbed onto his sleeve, barely awake. “No… don’t go… I don’t want you to… leave me again…”

His heart broke for her, and before he knew it he was climbing into bed with her and pulling her into his arms. Maybe she could sense his unease, his hesitance.

She nuzzled into his chest, sighing happily. “I love you, Kurapika… I don’t… want you to leave.”

He felt tears prickle in the corners of his eyes, slowly placing a kiss on her lips. “I know, I know (Name).”

She was already asleep again, clinging to him so tight, as if she wanted to make sure he couldn’t leave her. Kurapika wouldn’t sleep for a few more hours, his mind and heart racing.

‘Can I really love her? Is that even fair to either of us?’

He sighed, his eyelids finally dropping, sending him into a restless sleep.

[spot-conlons-pimp-cane]

ALR SO HERE IS AN UPDATED POST OF SHIPS I SHIP IN NEWSIES

Livesies:

Javid (jack x David)

Ralbert (race x Albert)

JoJo x elmer (idk their ship name)

Jathrine (jack x Kathrine)

Redfinch (finch x Albert)

Belmer (buttons x Elmer)

Smalls x Sniper (idk ship their name)

Darcy x Bill (idk their ship name)

Binch/bitch (finch x buttons)

92sies:

Sprace (Spot x Race)

Blush (blink x mush)

Javid (again)

Snitch x Itey (idk their ship name)

bumlets x skittery (idk the ship name)

bumswiftery (bumlets x swifty x skittery)

Other:

Newsbians (Sarah x Kathrine)

[witchthewriter]

𝐁𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐉𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐞 𝐓𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐭'𝐬 𝐬/𝐨 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞

⤷ gender neutral, ambiguous race, and any size reader. Requests are open, thank you for reading!    

a/n: I’m on that goddamn Ted Lasso train binches. Please don’t let me be the only one that is in love with ... everyone. Also - this is the ONLY team I will ever care about. 

Warnings: sWEARINGS hehe, mentions of family abuse, childhood trauma

ᴹᵃˢᵗᵉʳˡᶤˢᵗ      

ESTP

Slytherin

Chaotic Neutral

The Hanged Man

Leo Sun, Pisces Moon, Gemini Rising

𝑺𝑭𝑾🌿  

・Was he a prick when you first knew him? Fuck yes. But did he grow and become a better man? HELL FUCKING YES.

・You knew Jamie from your school years, he was always the prick, the jock who would tease anyone just so no one would see the hurt he endured

・You used to stand up to him all the time - putting him in his place

・The funny thing was, that later in your life, your brother was chosen for the Richmond team

・And you were forced to go to every game by your mother, and see your former bully play on the same team as your brother 

・It was such a weird situation, and yet you tried to make the best of it. 

・Somehow you became incredibly close friends with Keeley. She saw you trying to find the locker room, to wish your brother good luck. And you became fast friends. 

・Your relationship with Keeley became really important, and once you found out about her and Jamie (after they split up), you were shocked.

  “But, but you’re so - you!” 

“What are you talkin’ about?” 

   “You’re so ... gorgeous, and funny and open-minded...the complete opposite of Jamie!” 

・She just shook her head with a sad smile, “there’s a lot about him that people don’t see. Or understand.” 

・Keeley actually became one of your biggest shippers

・It was a slowburn romance. A lot of stolen glances, baseless insults and light-hearted complaining about the other. 

・Everyone could see it but the two of you

・And you both denied your feelings over and over and over again

・Even Coach Lasso could see it, and it wasn’t until Roy told Jamie to stop being suck a twat, that Jamie realised his feelings 

・Keeley gave her blessing, because you’d never go breach your friendship over a guy 

・When you started going out, Jamie did everything he could to impress you - take you on the most expensive dates to restaurants; one of his ideas was to take you to Disneyland but Keeley said ... that was overdoing it a bit. (She said maybe after a year of dating you’d be comfortable with that idea)

・You were hesitant with the relationship because you didn’t want an immature partner. But although he can be childish at times, he really developed as a person. 

・He’s accountable for his actions - and actually went and apologised to everyone he bullied at school

・You made him watch the Prince of Egypt and he response throughout was “woahh babe, babe what-” “um...why aren’t more people talking about this?” 

・And he basically cried throughout the movie, especially at the end. And then he asked what happens to them after they escape and you’re like ... “babe c’mon. It’s - they’ve literally written...”

・Calls you “babe,” “sexy,” “sweetcheeks” 

・Actually really likes the show Outlander, like ... a lot. To the point that he binge watched it and wanted to dress up as Jamie Fraser for Halloween

・You go to all his games (I mean...your brother is on the same team, so really two birds one stone, right?)

・He always spots you in the crowd (easily done - you sit where Rebecca, Keeley and Higgins do) and when he does, he blows you a kiss. It’s always good luck when you catch it and place it on your heart 

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔    

”I love you, wholeheartedly.” x “You shouldn’t, I don’t deserve it.”

Tough on the Outside, Soft on the Inside  x The Top 

Malewife x Girl/Guy/Theyboss

𝑹𝒐𝒎𝒂𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒄 𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆  

Enemies to Lovers 

Second-Chance At Love

Late Love Realisation

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈:    

Supersoaker by Kings of Leon

[eoieopda]

jade. my soulmate. co-parent of our brain cell. the time has come—i have worked up the courage to send you a request.

i am thinking of the absolute love of my life park jimin. like estranged friends to lovers (not necessarily bad blood, just time and life caused distance between them)? fluffy like so fluffy but a hint of angst if you squint?? perhaps song inspo ‘find me here’ by hayley williams???

love u, sending this made me NERVOUS LMAO

OH, BINCH, I AM READY.

As the saying goes, two things in life are inevitable: death and taxes. As far as Park Jimin is concerned, that list is non-exhaustive, woefully incomplete. It fails to account for the one thing he knows is certain.

When he left his apartment that morning, Jimin didn’t necessarily expect to run into you. The Google calendar you once shared had been out of commission for nearly a year; and your paths hadn’t crossed in the meantime. He had no reason to know that your plans for the day included sitting riverside, sipping coffee, and watching the water. Despite that fact, it doesn’t surprise him to find you there now.

It just makes sense.

You’re daydreaming when Jimin sits down next to you. He gets so caught up in that thoughtful crease between your eyebrows that he forgets to make his presence known for more than a few minutes. You don’t even jump when he eventually decides to speak rather than stare. Finding him doesn’t seem to be a shock to you, either.

“Hey,” you sigh as if you’re relieved, and you are all smiles.

Jimin echoes your greeting in that same, soft tone, and it’s easy, like the last time he said it wasn’t twelve months ago. He’s grateful for that — for the lack of theatrics. It isn’t a dramatic reunion; there’s no gasp, no tears, no oh my gods. There’s you and him, falling into lockstep without so much as a stumble.

Glancing down at the travel mug in your hands, Jimin confirms that he knows exactly what he’s looking at. Right above your thumb, he finds the accidental dent you made in the metal when you knocked it off his kitchen counter two years earlier. The sight of it has him warm all over.

He doesn’t have to guess that it’s full of the medium roast from that café up the street, but he does have to ask: “One shot of espresso, or two?”

You grimace and Jimin knows exactly what that look means.

Eyes wide with mirth, he snorts, “Three? Shit. Don’t tell me you’re still staying up until sunrise.”

“Excuse you,” you gasp in feigned offense, swatting playfully at his bicep. Thank god some things never change. “I’ll have you know that I went to bed at midnight last night like a responsible adult!”

Jimin makes a big show of rubbing the spot where the back of your hand collided with his jacket. He relishes the way you roll your eyes at him for doing so. “Responsible is debatable, but I’ll concede that — for you — midnight is impressive.”

“I know, right?” you snicker. There’s a beat, then you blink at him expectantly. “Please clap.”

With your face lit up like that, how could he not?

“Proud of you,” He chuckles as you bow through his applause. And he means it, he really does. Sleep never came naturally to you, yet here you are, willingly going to bed before the moon does.

When it grows quiet again, that feels easy, too. It’s just as comfortable as it ever was, sitting silently next to you. Jimin realizes now just how much he’s missed this. Missed you, missed existing on the same page.

In any other circumstance, with anyone else, Jimin would feel obligated to keep the conversation going. He’d volley small talk until he was exhausted; fill every lull and refuse to let the mood hit the floor. Social interactions have always felt like endurance exercises — but not with you. Not then, and thank god, not now.

You’re looking straight ahead, shoulder leaning ever-so-slightly into his, when you eventually do speak. “Thank you.”

Now, Jimin is surprised.

“I don’t think I said it before I left, so I need to say it now,” you quietly answer before he can ask.

You turn to look at him and find that his eyes are already trained on you. It’s hard to put a finger on it, but there’s more of you now than there was the last time Jimin saw you. The glow you used to have — the one that had started to dim — was back, brighter than ever.

Happiness looks good on you, he thinks.

“I don’t think I would’ve gotten my shit together if it wasn’t for you,” You sigh. Then, you slot your fingers into the spaces between his without any hesitation at all. “I needed to — like, really needed to — but I wouldn’t have seen it if you didn’t point it out.”

Jimin squeezes the hand he didn’t want to let go of in the first place. It would’ve been selfish of him to cling to it back then, but it was a gamble not to. He threw in all his chips and hoped that you were the boomerang he thought you were; that you’d come back to him when you were ready.

You were, and are, a safe bet — one he’d take every single time — so Jimin gambles again.

He leans in slowly and you lean, too. Even though it’s the first time, the way you kiss him back feels natural.

Inevitable.

[itzynabi]

like someone in love

summary: in which eve and san go on a date

set: early september 2022

word count: 2.6k

warnings: mention of food and i think that’s it

an: the nasan first date is finally out everybody scream!,!! getting this done is the highlight of my life if i’m being honest. feedback and reblogs are much appreciated 💐

eve’s masterlist

Eve had always loved the night sky. Since she often worked long hours, she would sometimes see the stars more than the sun. If she tried hard enough, she would probably be able to name the constellations.

The stars twinkled as she drove to the park, where her and San had agreed to meet up for their date. Yunho was going to drop him off as he was the only member with a licence. As she approached their meet up spot, she saw a car waiting by the benches. She pulled up behind them and was about to call San when he exited the car. She exhaled deeply as he walked towards her car, trying to calm her nerves.

“Hi,” San greeted when he opened the door, a lunch bag in his hands.

“Hi,” Eve greeted back, smiling at him. “Sorry for making you wait, I couldn’t decide on my outfit.”

“Well, you look really good,” he said, getting in the car. Eve blushed, looking down at her dress.

She cleared her throat. “Thanks. Um, you look good, too.” She gestured to his outfit. “So, how long do you think they’re going to sit there and watch us?” She asked, referring to his members in the car. She could see five pairs of eyes watching them through the back windshield.

“I don’t know. I should tell them to leave.” He moved to leave the car.

She stopped him. “No! Um. It’s okay, just… shocked that they’re still there.”

Yunho must have gotten tired of sitting stationary in the car because he soon ignited it and drove off. They could both imagine the complaints that filled the car at that moment from the members who wanted to watch them longer.

“Well,” Eve started, gesturing in front of her, “they’re not anymore.”

“Yeah,” San said. He perked up, shaking the lunch bag in his hands. “I brought the snacks.”

“Oh!” She exclaimed. “What did you bring?”

“Dried sweet potato, Chocolate Binch Biscuits, Orion Choco Pie and chocolate covered strawberries,” he listed off, opening the bag to show her. She hummed in approval.

“Amazing choices, in my humble opinion,” she said, feeling her nerves slowly dissipate.

“Thanks, Wooyoung helped me pick them out. I know you like chocolate so he told me to just buy chocolate snacks.”

“Wooyoung’s always been one of the smartest members in ATEEZ.”

“I’m also up there, right?” He asked, looking at her.

She smiled sweetly at him. “Let’s not get too ambitious.”

He pouted, mumbling, “I should be up there, though. You should think I’m the best from my group.”

“Do you think I’m the best in my group?”

“Yes!” He answered. “But Ryujin’s funnier,” he teased with a smile, causing Eve to pout.

“Well, as smart as Wooyoung was with snack suggestions,” Eve began, “there’s one problem.”

San’s eyes widened. “What is it?”

Eve sighed, drawing out the tension as long as she could. “I’m allergic to strawberries.”

He stared at her for a second before bursting into laughter. “Yah, why are you lying, Biyah? You’re not allergic to strawberries.”

She nodded slowly, pursing her lips. “I kind of am.”

San slowly stopped laughing. “But… but you said you’ve always wanted to try chocolate covered strawberries.”

“Yeah. Because I can’t. For safety reasons.”

“How did I not know about this? I was so excited to give you this.” He huffed, closing his eyes.

“It never came up in conversation, it’s not your fault. If it makes you feel better, I’ll try one.” She suggested.

“Is that healthy?” San asked, looking at her. “Won’t you have an allergic reaction?”

“Well, duh!” Eve exclaimed. “But I’ve got an EpiPen,” she justified, tapping the centre console.

“Don’t you only get EpiPen’s when the allergy is serious?”

“I don’t know. But you prepared the chocolate strawberries for me because I said I’ve always wanted to try them.”

He shook his head profusely. “I don’t want you to have an allergic reaction on our first date!”

“Oh, is that more a third date thing?”

“It’s a never-going-to-happen thing,” San answered. He put the container with strawberries at the bottom of the bag.

Eve pouted. “This could be my one and only chance to try a chocolate covered strawberry.”

“No. It couldn’t, because I’m not giving you any.”

“Wooyoung would give me one,” she grumbled, shifting in her seat.

San smiled at her cuteness. “And he’d have to explain to your parents why he gave you strawberries,” he pointed out.

“Can’t argue with that.”

The conversation stalled there, the two smiling shyly at each other. Eve cleared her throat, looking away from San.

“How was your tour?” She asked him.

He sighed. “It was great. It really was, but it’s hard. I want to give my all for ATINY’s and be proud of my performance, but it’s like my standards are so high that I can’t even touch them.” He took out the Chocolate Binch Biscuits as he spoke, “You know at the end of a performance, you get that feeling in your chest like you just ran a marathon?” He waited for her to nod before continuing, “I felt that, but I still felt unsatisfied.”

Eve nodded in understanding, taking a biscuit from him. “I’m the last person that should tell you to be satisfied with your performances–” she chuckled, thinking about her perfectionism– “but you kind of just have to learn to be okay with not always being able to give your best.”

San stared at Eve with stars in his eyes. “Wow. You’re really wise.”

Eve scoffed, looking out the window. “I’m not.” She looked back to San. “I just ask my brother for advice a lot.”

“That’s nice. But enough work talk, we have every other day to talk about that,” San said, shaking his head. “For today, we aren’t idols. For today, we’re boyfriend and girlfriend. San and Nabi.”

A smile crept its way onto Eve’s face. “San and Nabi.” She nodded. “Well then, San, stop hogging the biscuits.” She grabbed the biscuits from his lap as he gaped at her.

“I was just holding it!” He protested with a scoff. “It’s not like I was keeping it away from you or anything.”

“You basically are,” Eve said, pouting cutely.

San smiled at her. “You’re very cute.”

Eve’s facial expression turned to one of shock. “No, I’m not. Don’t lie.”

“But you are.” San poked her cheek affectionately. “You should give me boyfriend privileges and just let me be the only one who can call you cute.”

Eve tilted her head in confusion. “Everybody calls me cute, though.”

“Yeah, but when I say it, it’ll matter the most.”

“No, it won’t because you won’t say it.”

San threw his head back in laughter as Eve continued to eat the biscuits. When his laughter died down, he smiled at her fondly.

“You know,” San started. “I was a bit worried that things wouldn’t be the same between us. Wouldn’t be… easy.” He tilted his head. “But now that we’re on our date, I know that those fears were useless. I mean, I’m still San and you're still Eve. And we’re still us. Does that make sense?”

Eve nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah, it does. I had the same worry but, as you said, we’re still us. Can’t believe it took us so long to get together, though.”

“That’s because somebody didn’t realise all the times I flirted with her,” San teased.

“So I’m a little oblivious. Sue me.” Eve shrugged. “I don’t pick up on the small details.”

“I was being super obvious, though,” San whined cutely. “I took you on a date!”

“With Ryujin and Wooyoung!” Eve rebutted. “I didn’t find anything romantic because they were there. I thought we were all just a bunch of pals.” She took a bite of her biscuit. “Besides, you invited Wooyoung. He’s your soulmate. I thought you two were celebrating something and just decided to invite us.”

“You’re really oblivious. So when I’d be very touchy with you, what did you think was going on?”

“I just thought you were in a touchy mood,” Eve explained. “Because I sometimes get moments when I have to touch someone — sometime it’s hugging them, sometimes it’s holding their hands — so I thought that was what was happening. Genuinely.”

San nodded, chuckling lightly. “Okay, but I only touched you,” he pointed out.

“I thought you were just comfortable with me.” Eve shrugged, finished her biscuit. “I wouldn’t go around hugging Yeosang, would I?” She asked, mentioning his member that she wasn’t exactly close to.

San bit his lip, smirking when Eve followed the action. “You have a point.” He picked up the lunch bag, taking out the sweet potatoes.

“Chaeryeong really love these,” Eve mentioned, pointing at the food San was peeling.

“I know,” he said, not looking up from his work. “I brought an extra so you could take it home for her.”

Eve felt a warmth unfurl in her chest at San’s thoughtfulness. “That’s sweet of you.”

He shook his head. “You’d have done the same.”

“Doesn’t mean it isn’t sweet,” she pointed out.

The two continued to talk and eat. They were having the most fun with each other as they joked and laughed. Having eaten all of the snacks and putting them back in the lunch bag, they began to just talk about anything and everything.

“But I kind of feel bad,” Eve said, “for keeping this from MIDZY’s.”

San nodded in agreement, sighing. “But we have to.”

“Yeah. I kind of like the secretiveness, though,” Eve revealed. “Is it super stressful? Totally. Do I feel guilty for lying to my fans? Hundred percent. But I like that it’s just us.” Eve linked their hands together on the centre console. “Nobody else but us.”

She looked up from their hands and made eye contact with him, holding his stare for a few seconds.

“You,” San started. “You can’t do that,” he complained and looked out the window before looking back at Eve, making her confused.

“Do what?”

“You can’t make me fall even more in love with you.”

Eve blushed and looked down in her lap with a smile on her face, “Shut up!”

“I’m serious,” he continued. “What if I have a heart attack because of how amazing you are?”

“That would be very unfortunate. And hard to explain to your CEO.”

San groaned. “Why did you bring up my CEO? He’s not who I want to think about on our first date.”

Eve raised her hands in mock surrender. “Sorry, sorry.” She looked at the lunch bag. “You didn’t eat the strawberries,” she pointed out, scratching her nose.

San also looked at the bag. “Oh, yeah. I kind of forgot about them.”

Eve reached for the bag, pulling out the container with strawberries. She took out one of the strawberries, holding it out to San. “Eat,” she softly said.

San leaned forward, taking a bite of the fruit. He groaned at the taste, briefly closing his eyes. “Tasty,” he told her, making a show of licking the sweetness off his lips. Eve’s breath hitched as she watched him, looking down to distract herself.

“Stop,” she whined, still looking at her lap.

“Stop what?” San asked, teasing her.

Eve looked up at him. “You know what you’re doing. What if I have a heart attack?” She echoed his earlier words.

San smiled at her. “I’d take you to the hospital.”

Eve rolled her eyes. “So impersonal.” She checked her phone to see the time. “Oh! We should be heading back now.”

San checked the time on his phone, his eyes growing wide in shock. “It’s been so long already? It feels like we just got here.”

Eve chuckled as they got to cleaning up the car, putting everything away and trying to pick up the crumbs. When they were done, Eve started the car. As she drove, they talked about dramas they had been watching.

“Well,” Eve started, tapping her foot on the floor of the car as they arrived at San’s apartment building. “I’d say that was a good date.”

San chuckled from beside her. “I’d have to agree.”

“This is me,” he said as she parked the car.

“This is you.” She rested one of her hands on the steering wheel, making eye contact with him. They stayed like that for a while before Eve cleared her throat.

“I guess I should go in.” He pointed behind him.

“I guess you should,” Eve smiled softly.

San looked as if he was going to turn to exit the car but instead stayed fixed in his position in his seat.

“I don’t want to, though.”

“I don’t want you to either,” she confessed. “So.” Eve played with her fingers. “What do we do? Do we go somepla–”

Her question was cut off by San, who had leaned towards her, grabbing her face in his hands and bringing his face so close to hers she swears she could count every one of his eyelashes.

“Can I kiss you?” San asked, voice deeper than she's ever heard before.

Eve gulped. “If I say no?”

“Then we can pretend this never happened.”

“And if I say yes?”

“I think you know. I mean you should know.”

Eve reached up with her left hand, wrapping it around San's wrist. She leaned her face closer until she was basically brushing his lips with hers.

“Yes,” she breathed out and San placed the most gentle and delicate kiss she had Ever experienced on her lips. His tongue soon teased against the seam of her lips and she opened them with a sigh. One of San's hands went to her waist, resting there.

“Wow,” Eve whispered after they pulled apart.

“Wow,” San echoed. Eve pulled away more, looking into his eyes with a shy smile on her face. “That was better than January 3rd,” San joked.

Eve rolled her eyes, thinking back to the day they almost kissed. “Technically, nothing happened January 3rd.”

“But something could’ve,” San pointed out, brushing his hand across Eve's cheek. Her eyes fluttered shut at the contact. When she opened them, she saw San looking at her with a heartwarming smile on his face.

“You ready to go inside now?” she asked.

San shook his head. "Not yet." He leaned forward, placing a kiss on her lips, letting himself linger. Eve felt his hand on her waist tighten when he pulled away. “Now I am.”

She pulled out of San's arms as he turned to open the door to the car.

“Goodnight San.”

“Goodnight Nabi.”

bonus:

Eve drove back to her dorm building, absentmindedly singing only to herself with a smile on her face. When she arrived at the building, she got out of her car, locking it as she walked to the elevator. Once inside, she did a little dance of excitement, clearing her throat and tucking her hair behind her ear when she finished.

She walked to her apartment unit after getting off the elevator. Eve bit her lip in an attempt to conceal her smile as she put in the code for the door, entering soon after.

As she took her shoes off, she heard Chaeryeong shout “She’s back!” followed by the sound of five pairs of feet going to meet her at the door. Her members poked their heads past the wall as if they were in a Disney movie.

“So,” Yeji started in a sing-song voice, “how was it?”

Eve did another little dance of excitement, jumping up and down. Her members’ faces broke into big smiles as they joined her in her happy celebration dance. Eve smiled harder as she thought about how her date ended, knowing the group wouldn’t go to sleep anytime soon.

tagging: @seolboba // @ateezivy // @ateezjuliet // @cafemilk-tea // @smh-anon // @alixnsuperstxr // @cosmicwintr

©️ kim nabi

[bigmack2go]

I dont think we talk enough about how almost all the newsie shipnames are actual words!! Like I actually fucking just love that so much

It makes me so happy

A list -not all are included and i dont ship them all but they exist and yeah…-:

Jelly (david jacobs x jack kelly) (aka javid/javey)

Space (spot conlon x racetrack higgins) (aka sprace/cock😒/hinlon)

Blush (kid blink x mush mayers)

Jackpot (Jack Kelly x Spot conlon)

Redfinch (albert dasilva x finch whateverhislastnameis)

Rally (Racetrack higgins x jack kelly)

Jam (Katherine pulitzer x sarah jacobs) (aka karah/newsbians/satherine)

Purple (Ractrack higgins x spot conlon x albert dasilva) (aka Spralbert/robot/ralbot)

Robot (also racetrack higgins x Albert dasilva x spot Conlon) (aka spralbert/ralbot/purple)

Crack (crutchy morris x jack kelly)

Joy (tommy boy x jojo de la guerra)

Joke (jojo dela guerra x ike)

Lovebird (romeo lastnamesareoverrated x finch whateverhislastnameis)

Sponge (spot conlon x crutchie morris

Dutch (david jacobs x crutchie morris)

Itch (itey x snitch) (aka snitey)

Crunch (crutchie morris x finch whateverhislastnameis) (aka crockedbird)

Rave (racetrack higgins x david jacobs)

Bell (buttons davenport x elmer kasvrac) (aka blume/belmer/belmeruttons)

Blume (buttons davenprt x elmer kasvrac) (aka bell/belmer/belmeruttons, aka butter)

Dill (darcy reid x bill hearst)

(Idk why but ialmost wrote „darcy hearst and bill pullitzer“ than realized what i did and full on confidently wrote „billy elliot“ instead of bill hearst)

Smile (snipe wah x smalls lastnamewho)

Hike (Ike reed x hotshot hotshot)

Buttery (??) (Bumlets definitelyhasalastname x skittery skeedattle)

Smelly (smalls lastnamewho x jack kelly)

Soundtrack (Racetrack higgins x albert da silva) (aka ralbert)

Dove- (Davey Jacobs x Oscar Delancy)

Butter (buttons davenprt x elmer kasvrac) (aka bell/belmer/belmeruttons, aka blume)

besheet?? (dutchie and specs (apperantly))

Butterfly (skittery skeedattle x bumlets definitelyhasalastname x swifty fan) (aka bumswiftery)

Bitch (finch whateverhislastnameis x buttons davenport) (aka binch)

Decs (dutchy dutchdutch x specs cantseelol)

Hotspot (Hotshot Hotshot x Spot Conlon)

Oh and bonus:

Fireball (Flames Krocki x Tic hasalastname™️)

[katyspersonal]

Tagging game

Tagged by @bimbomcgee

Nickname: Kat, or Katy! Rom or Hina if you are very intimate with me and Rina if you want to be dead instantly

Sign: You really have any doubts? It's fuckin' Aries, binch!

Height: Boring generic 165 cm (5'4''). I love extremities, I'd love to be either very short or very tall.

Last thing I googled: 'Elden Ring Alberich face data'. Look at these mfers and tell me they are not implied to be related, especially considering that they are both big people in regards to Roundtable Hold:

Bonus - at first I misread this field as 'last thing I DOODLED' so here you can look at the result of me and Val having been drawing on Whiteboard and him mishearing me say "they added shapes" as "they added apes":

Sorry for NFT Boc everyone </3

Amount of sleep: From 4 hours to 4, it depends. I love consistency.... xD

Dream job: I want to work with plants... I just want to tend to flowers. Unfortunately spots like this are seldom open. Alternatively, I'd love a boring office job with buncha boring documents and high salary. Just take me somewhere where I won't have to interact with people -_-" You think I am not very social online, but in real life I get aggroed when a person I am not pals with as much as says my name!

Wearing: I am in my pajamas because it is 9 AM and I need to go to job soon! It is silly light blue one with pink flowers :3

Movies/books/media that summarize you: I used to have more interesting answer, but at this point my personality IS Soulsb0rne. I don't have to elaborate, just have a discussion with me that last longer than 10 minutes and you will understand. (and also probably go insane xD) However, if you really want to understand me well, you should also be familiar with Undert4le and Delt4rune, and also Mad0ka (ESPECIALLY Magia Record) and Gravity F4lls!

Favorite song: I don't have favourite song of all times, and in general it's been years of me not listening to music as it should be and instead abusing music as a podcast while drawing... This is one of the favourites since childhood tho:

Why it was so hard to find the subbed version... т.т

Instrument: None, but I often have dreams of playing piano! Makes sense because it is like, a dream haha.. hah

Aesthetic: It used to be all flowers and nature and blooming but Bloodb0rne seriously skewed it towards water and space and eldrich abominations.....

Favorite author: Lmao I don't read sorry dfshfsdhfd xD Focus issues! I read a couple of sentences and end up thinking of them from every possible angle, imagine every possible scenario, put them through my own memories and feelings..... and hella time sips away. Rom has MANY eyes, she should scrutinise the concept with EACH of them @_@ However, Dostoevsky and Bulgakov really pulled me <3 Dostoevsky has absolutely unrivaled fucking Russian depression in his works that I haven't found elsewhere, and Bulgakov just.. pulled religious themes so well, and I love his fucking CHARACTERS, so iconic xd If you read Master and Margarita you'll get it! (Crow I know you here LOVE classic Russian literature!)

random fun fact: I am in the walking distance from the sea! x) Could not have had it any other way, haha.

I tag: (You tagged some of our mutuals now already I guess?) @wikipedianna @lizteaart @val-of-the-north @saint--adeline @jarognieva @cosmichorrorsarestillnicerthanme @bobbyzombiegg @greenblueyulum

[mushroom-for-art]

Hi @pokemon-ash-aus, I hope you don't mind I borrowed Peach, yes I put her in situations sorry, I think she had a good time though. This was basically my first thought since the plushie ask and you mentioning she'd be anxious with it out and about as an easy bullying target, I took creative liberties like assuming she went to college to get her Pokémon Professor degree because like idk if she did or just went I'm a Professor now binch. Enjoy!

Plushies and Public Transport

Peach couldn't help nervously glancing around, the plush that had been a comfort was slowly becoming a source of anxiety and discomfort as she held the soft charmander in her crossed arms close to her chest. She had already been a bit concerned about going out to such a crowded place in her human disguise, she squeezed the plush in her arms and was glad it didn't have a squeaker inside.

It was a bit odd walking with her feet rather than floating and she really really didn't want to have to do any mouth speaking trying to fake it where she could and use telepathy instead. Her eyes glanced around at the sounds of chattering, did she hear someone say charmander? She wasn't, sure if she was imagining judgment or if people were talking about her. She was glad the plushy was well built because with how hard she was squeezing it to her body for some sense of comfort and soothing she was surprised the head hadn't popped off comedically to make her even more of a spectacle to these people.

She sat on a bench taking off her backpack and holding it to her side while sighing to herself, she could do this all she had to do was make it through these first few commutes and she's sure the anxiety of it all would be non existent and she'd wonder what she was ever stressed about. She watched the feet shuffle past her, the chattering of many people and some thoughts managing to be so loud she couldn't block them out were starting to make her head hurt and an uncomfortable sensation grow in her chest.

She focused on breathing, in through your nose out through your mouth or something like that her exhale passing through her gritted teeth as she attempted to calm. She heard the footsteps before she saw them, a pair of well made proper looking brown shoes stopped in front of her and Peach screwed her eyes closed tight ready for some kind of mocking question.

Slowly lifting her head she quirked an eyebrow and blinked several times in confusion at the sight of another teenager about 'her' age (according to the disguise she was using), hiding their face, poorly, behind a small Spritzee, no wait, it was a plush Spritzee judging by the button eyes the slightly misshapen head fluff and how limp the wings were. Peach blinked once more as she noticed the movement of the others legs, seeing them anxiously shuffle on the spot as their hands gently held the plushies' wings and moved them for emphasis as they spoke.

"Um, excuse me but this dolt was perhaps wondering if she was at the right terminal to get the train to the professor learning academy?" Though they moved the plush for emphasis of the plush speaking rather than themselves Peach could see that she was avoiding eye contact rather heavily.

"...ah…" Peach's voice was very quiet, more of an exhale than speech so thankfully she didn't stutter but, as she looked at this other person likely another student starting this segment of their life watching them use the plush for comfort and as a speaking aid it seemed Peach felt a little chunk of speech anxiety chip away.

She, with slight reluctance, confirmed that they were at the right spot, trying not to show her discomfort at her stuttering or how her lisp affected her words and she watched the others shoulders drop in relief, clearly having been quite tense, though still holding the plush up to hide their face as they sighed and thanked her.

Peach gave an awkward unsure smile, she hadn't been planning for anyone to actually speak to her, other than the ticket master or the person at the ticket booth, so despite the feeling of weird anxiety over something out of script happening it wasn't necessarily unpleasant either, the interaction could've been much worse after all…

They bowed in thanks to her despite already verbally thanking her before watching them look around their hands gently squeezing their plush for comfort as Peach in turn squeezed the soft charmander a bit closer.

"Do, do, do you want to s-s-sit here?" Peach didn't like how her mouth struggled for words or how it emphasized her lisp but something about this individual made her feel a bit more comfortable in her own voice. They nodded through the plush and as Peach shuffled a bit to the side to make room they sat down besides her to wait for their train together. Peach glanced over and assumed by the looks of them and context clues they were also just starting their education just like her.

She did feel a bit rude side glancing at them but she was a bit curious, why did they talk to her of all people? She could spot a few other people who looked like they would have been heading the same way so why speak to her. She noticed as well they kept the plushie up to their face, and after a few moments she was certain she heard them make a quiet chirping sound. Peach blinked but, well they didn't comment on her lisp.

"I'm honestly really glad I spotted you," Peach glanced over again they weren't looking at her she could see their hands softly squeezing the plushie likely in self soothing, "I, was kind of worried I'd have to speak to one of those guys over there," she gestured with the Spritzee plush casually and Peach glanced over at the other group of people she had spotted who must were likely going the same way as them. Her bench companion made a little clicking noise, reminding her of chittering chattering bug types.

"But then I saw you, and you had a plushie too!" Peach held the charmander plush a bit closer at it being mentioned, feeling a wave of defensiveness run through her ready to hiss and defend herself from cruel remarks, "and I thought, hey! That, that looks like someone who I could trust," the tension in Peachs shoulders stopped rising and slowly subsided as she looked over to the other again, "cause well, I don't know anybody but if you have a plushie and I have a plushie then well maybe i'd be okay if I asked you. Plus it makes me feel a bit less anxious too.." They glanced over at Peach with an eye behind her plush and she watched them give an anxious smile before moving the plush to hide once more.

"Sorry! I'm bad at looking at people."

"It's ok-o-okay," Peach reassured, if a bit awkwardly as her fingers gently brushed the fluff of her charmander plush. Maybe it hadn't been such a bad idea to bring them after all.

They sat in quiet for a bit more as they waited, the sound of the daily commute around them, the other inquiring where Peach bought her plush and Peach very proudly telling them it was in fact made by her brother. Her companion seemed impressed and mentioned her brother must have been quite talented, telling Peach that her mother made her plushie for her to help with her anxiety and that it had a button on the back to open it up to fit in a pouch of scents, saying that at the moment it had a pouch of lavender in because it's meant to be quite soothing which is why she keeps holding it to her face. Peach made an understanding 'ahh', smiling a bit as they chatted, the other even offering to let Peach have a hold and smell of the lavender which even though it wasn't said she could tell that this other person must have trusted her a considerable amount.

The lavender scent was present but not overwhelming and Peach sighed softly at the comforting aroma before carefully handing the no doubt prized possession back to its original owner. They exchanged the names given to their respective plushies with the other having named their Spritzee after the person who first recorded the species and learnt how to use their aromas for perfumes which was incredibly fitting and Peach could only nod her head in approval trying not to vibrate with the fact she knew MUCH about how the aroma was made in the Pokémon body.

Of course the other casually mentioned a did you know fact about the Spritzee and Aromatisse line and the floodgates of knowledge absolutely spilled open as Peach enthusiastically began her deep dive into the history and biology of these scented Pokémon.

Even though her companion seemed to gape at Peach in confusion, when she faltered in her confidence they very quickly jumped in with, "no please keep talking!" And with newfound confidence and assurance she continued her knowledgeable rant with the other nodding along fascinated but mentioning that she couldn't even add anything because Peach was so well knowledged she was amazed.

As they got on the train Peach had managed to go from the scent of the Spritzee line to the Salandit line and it's aromas and how they're created and engineered to be perfume and as they arrived at their stop she spoke with great enthusiasm about the Muk scandal and how it's scent when processed the right way could ALSO be made into a irresistible perfume! And did you know it is said the Oricorio line also have distinct scents along with looks and typing and it's believed that that was caused by the same flower nectar they consumed to change form and type! Her companion did in fact not know this.

Peach more proudly held her comfort plush to her as they walked the hallways to the meeting hall and did notice dotted around more people with their own plushies of different Pokémon, and perhaps bringing her charmander along hadn't been such a bad idea after all.

[ao3feed-newsies]

FRIENDS

by, Coffeee_questionmark by Coffeee_questionmark NEWSIES SITCOM AU!! (Co written with Finch but they don’t yet have an account) Words: 2811, Chapters: 1/?, Language: English Fandoms: Newsies - All Media Types Rating: Not Rated Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Categories: M/M, Multi Characters: Racetrack Higgins, Jack Kelly (Newsies), Crutchie (Newsies), Spot Conlon, Elmer (Newsies), Buttons (Newsies), Finch (Newsies), Kid Blink, Mush Meyers, Medda Larkson | Medda Larkin, David Jacobs, Les Jacobs Relationships: Buttons/Finch (Newsies), Everyone & Everyone, Crutchie & Racetrack Higgins & Jack Kelly, David Jacobs & Les Jacobs, Finch & Racetrack Higgins, Spot Conlon & Elmer, Jack Kelly & Medda Larkson | Medda Larkin, Racetrack Higgins & Medda Larkson | Medda Larkin, Crutchie & Medda Larkson | Medda Larkin, Crutchie/Elmer (Newsies), Kid Blink/Mush Meyers, David Jacobs/Jack Kelly, Spot Conlon/Racetrack Higgins Additional Tags: Found Family, binch - Freeform, Sitcom, they all live in the same apartment, Twister gone wrong, Everyone Is Gay, Other Additional Tags to Be Added, Adoptive Parent Medda Larkson | Medda Larkin, Crutchie Race and Jack are brothers read : https://ift.tt/GBQhNpw - June 23, 2024 at 11:57PM

[losech]

Today's binch hike.

I went to this spot specifically to see if I could find any butterfly weed seed pods. I knew it grew here, we had to hike about 4 miles to get to the clearing where I've seen it. There was some still there so I collected a couple pods.

[bwabys-scenarios]

Fixer Upper

Part 32

Perv!Kurapika x Fem!Reader

!!REBLOGS APPRECIATED!!

pt 31

pt 33

A/N: sorry this took so long. There will be a 32.5 chapter next to celebrate Kurapika’s birthday.

warning: death, misogyny

taglist: @tsukilover11 @ashdownunderscorebeloved @sweetstraberrybear @superweeniehutjrsblog @bugmomwrites @heartsforseo @lixiawinter @altaircc @itszenava @fiightforlovee @mimi-sanisanidiot @wow-im-gay @whorermoviestar @lightshowerrr @mama-m1na @nenggie @wicked-binch @jamayah @themanicwriter01

If you’d like to be ADDED to the taglist, please comment a red heart ❤️, make sure you’re able to be tagged/mentioned, and have your age in your bio(IF YOU ARE ALREADY ON THE TAGLIST, YOU DON’T NEED TO ASK TO BE ADDED AGAIN!!)

As (Name) got ready to fight, the sound of whimpering and scraping filled the small enclosed space, making her wince. Before she could say anything, something started to crawl into the little guy from the middle of the tunnel.

“Oh my god.”

A centaur-like chimera ant led two human beings on leashes, forcing them to walk on their hands and knees. “Keep it down, you two.”

The ant pulled on their leashes, causing the poor men to choke. “Who are you guys? How dare you intrude on my turf?”

“Help… please help us!” one of the unfortunate men called out, tears running down his face. (Name) began to walk forward, but her arm was caught by Kite. He gave her a stern yet sympathetic look before letting her go. She bit her lip, staying in her spot.

“Stop talking Spot! You’re just a dog!”

(Name)’s eyes went wide with shock as the ant stomped on the man’s head, killing him instantly. Could she have saved him if she acted? “Oops, didn’t mean to do that. Oh well, I’m getting bored with these guys. Guess I’ll get rid of Rover, too.”

The surviving man panicked, trying his best to act like a pathetic, begging dog. It was a desperate attempt at survival, one that was in vain. “When you beg like that, I just want to kill you more.”

“STOP IT!”

Kite caught Gon’s arm this time as the boy lunged, causing him to look back. “Don’t move carelessly. There’s more than one enemy. They want you to rush over.”

Two more ants walked out of the separate caves, cackling as the centaur ended the other man’s life. Gon and (Name) looked away, which caused them to be scolded by Kite.

“Don’t look away! If they shoot a projectile your way, you won’t be able to see it.”

The two nodded slowly, and (Name) lightly brushed her hand against Gon’s, an attempt at comfort. It was her way of saying they were in this together, and that she understood. It wasn’t much, but his heartbeat did calm down slightly, and he couldn’t help but spare her a thankful glance.

“I’ve got it. You three will be my new dogs.”

(Name) tilted her head as the centaur ant the pointed to her. “And you? You will be my mate.”

The entire room went quiet, (Name) blinking rapidly, looking back at forth at the ant, Kite, Killua, and Gon. “Did… did I hear that correctly?”

Killua and Gon stood there in shock, looking both disgusted and angry at the same time. Kite looked as calm and collected as always, but he seemed slightly tense in his shoulders, as if he were holding himself back. “Chimera ants have always been aggressive, but it seems consuming malicious humans has made them even more evil.”

“H-huh? What do you mean?” Gon asked, still recovering from the chimera ant’s words. He hated that (Name) had been signaled out and disrespected. It only fueled his anger and resentment towards the creatures.

“Phagogenesis.” Killua answered.

“If we don’t deal with them here, many more will die!” Kite exclaimed. In response to his words, their auras spiked as they got ready to battle.

“Capture them!” the centaur ant ordered the other ants with a point of his finger, causing them to launch forward.

“I’ll take the one in the back. You boys will have to deal with the two rushing us. (Name) you’ll provide support, be ready to use your ability when needed.”

(Name) sighed in relief, then paused for a second to turn and look at Kite. She wanted to fight too, but she wouldn’t disobey him. There was most likely a very good reason he was making her stay back, either for her own well being, or for the boys’.

“Right!”

“Got it!

“Do not hesitate. You must fight to kill.”

As the two ran to fight the ants, Kite and (Name) stayed behind, staring down the centaur ant in front of them. It looked at her hungrily, licking its lips and chuckling under its breath. (Name) tried not to forget Kite’s words and kept a good eye on the beast, even when it grinned and purred lowly, biting its lip as it looked her up and down.

She was just glad the boys were there to see the way it looked at her, it grossed her out and was plainly disrespectful. Kite didn’t say anything, but stayed within an inch of her, his hip nearly touching hers. It was reassuring, a way for him to say he would protect her if needed.

“A lesson for you, (Name).” Kite said softly, his eyes trained on the ant. “A cocky opponent will let down their guard in front of someone they perceive as weak. Sometimes using your own weakness to your advantage is a good way to win a fight against someone that may be stronger than you.”

The ant watched as (Name) and Kite talked quietly, the two never looking away from it as they whispered back in forth. The creature sighed, cracking its neck in boredom.

“Hey. We should get started soon.”

Kite waves his hand dismissively. “Wait a little longer.”

“Screw that! You don’t have a choice in the matter,” it licked its lip, glancing between the two. “Now entertain me.”

“Very well.”

As Kite’s aura rose, (Name) darted to the left. The ant paid her no mind, focusing on the threat in front of him. She used this opportunity to go over to Killua, who had been injured during his fight.

(Name) approached him, crouching down to his level. “Are you alright?”

“I’m fine, the poison can’t-“

“Poison!?”

Killua groaned as she fussed over him, lifting up the back of his shirt. “Killua, does it not hurt? I’ll heal it, don’t worry.”

She placed her hand over the wound, closing her eyes in concentration. “It’ll feel better soon.”

He softened ever so slightly. (Name) was probably the only person that ever truly worried over him, that considered him a child. Gon cared about him sure, but he knew what Killua could and couldn’t take and didn’t worry.

But she worried regardless. When he was hurt, she wanted to make it better. As the wound stitched itself back together, he reached out and held her free hand. “Thanks, (Name).”

She smiled in reply, handing him a granola bar once it was healed. “Here, when I heal a wound it uses your stamina. Your stamina specifically is pretty high, but eating a snack will make sure you stay energetic.”

He took it, unwrapping the bar before taking a big bite. “Mmph… weird, I didn’t think I was that hungry…”

After devouring the bar, Killua joined the others, (Name) following behind him. “Oh it’s him!”

“The thing that shot us!”

Kite, having already defeated his enemy, had his nen activated. “I got a slot machine in my mouth! It goes from 1 to 9. Each number summons a different weapon. This is my Crazy Shot! Don’t forget the name!”

“Just go away…” Kite said, the weapon disappearing.

(Name) healed Gon’s wounds as the others talked, giving him a granola bar as well.

———————

As they made their way out of the cave, Kite continued to speak. (Name) didn’t pay much attention, too busy sorting through her backpack and trying to calm her nerves.

“Let’s hurry, the nest is close.”

That caught her attention.

The forest was dark, all of the animals had gone silent. It felt tense, especially when Gon looked to be on high alert. Usually, when Gon was tense, that meant something was about to happen. After all, his instincts were incredibly sharp.

Killua looked on guard as well, glancing between the gaps in the canopy. He stood close to (Name) as Kite sighed. “We’re surrounded.”

(Name) froze, the only part of her body that moved was her eyes. She searches the tree line for any movement, but it was too dark for her eyes to see.

“Their numbers are great.”

The bushes next to them exploded, along with things falling from the sky. They all landed in front of the four. “Now, then… let’s decide order and methodology. As for our targets, you have three choices. One..”

(Name) reached for Killua’s hand, trying to comfort herself more than him.

“Decide the order in which you will fight. Two, attempt to escape. Three, give up and let us capture you. If you choose option one, you will fight one-on-one battles with us for a chance to survive. I don’t recommend the second option. You’ll anger us, resulting in a brutal capture and prolonged suffering for all of you. Option three is out of the question. That would anger us even more than option two. So, what will you do?”

She felt like she was being leered at again. Each creature stared at her, licking their lips and making strange sounds.

Gon frowned. He was still feeling angry from the disrespect (Name) faced earlier, and from all of the death and pain those creatures had caused. “Kite.”

“We couldn’t have asked for a better deal. One-on-one fights with their Captains. We’ll start with whoever is prepared to fight.”

Killua stepped forward, in front of (Name). “I’ll go.”

“No I will!” Gon said, and the two immediately faced each other to play rock paper scissors. Gon was the Victor.

“Okay, I’m going first!”

————————

After Killua and Gon's fight, Kite pushed name to the front. "She'll be going next."

Killa froze, his hand shooting out to grab her arm.

"Wait, I can go again. She doesn't need to-"

"She's going, that's final."

His words left no room to argue. Killua let go of (Name) hesitantly, a slight shake in his hand for a split second before he was able to hide it.

... Killua, I'll be okay. I've been training too, remember?"

She handed him her backpack, taking a deep breath.

"Watch that for me, okay?"

The other chimera ants chittered and laughed as her opponent stepped forward. The creature was tall, looking like a large, muscular moth with brown wings. It stared down are her, it’s shadow covering her completely. “This is who I get to fight? She’s the size of a baby bear. I could crush her with one hand.”

“Did… did you just compare me to a bear?”

The ant attempted to reach its massive hand out to crush her head, but she dodged to the side. “H-hey, we haven’t started fighting y-“

The ant kneed her in the stomach, sending her flying in the opposite direction. “(Name)!”

Killua began to run forward to go and help her, but was pulled back by the collar of his shirt. “Don’t. You’ll only provoke the rest of them and make (Name) lose focus.”

The boy growled, planting his feet on the ground. He watched as she slowly got back up as the massive chimera ant approached her. “Done already? And after those two children showed you up. How pathetic.”

She wiped the blood from her mouth silently, her aura spiking. “Huh, it really does take just a single touch.”

The ant blinked in confusion as its comrades watched on in horror. The leg it used to kick her was withering away, the pain only now catching up to it. “W-what did you do to me!?”

It tried to rush her, but fell as the effect spread, causing him to fall as his legs became nothing but ash. She easily stepped out of its range. “I’m just speeding up what would have happened to you anyways. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust as they say.”

With that, her fight was over. As she joined the others, Gon and Killua stared on in awe and a bit of fear. “(Name), that was-“

“Scary.” Killua finished Gon’s sentence.

She smiled tiredly, sitting down. “Yeah, it’s something Kite suggested I try. Took a lot out of me and I had to get pretty close to my enemy to use it, but I think I can train myself to eventually have more control over it. Maybe I can even eventually use it from a distance someday!”

Kite walked forward, summoning his weapon as the others chatted.

“That’s enough… it’s my turn!”

The frog like ant stepped forward as Crazy Slots rolled a 2. “Two, huh? Damn, bad spin.”

A scythe appeared in his hands, the blade so long it nearly wrapped around him.

“Killua, (Name)…”

“That scythe is nasty.”

“Gon, Killua, (Name). In three seconds, jump up.”

And they did, all three of them leaping into the air and barely missing the attack that wiped out the entire group of chimera ants.

“Be cautious as we advance. As I mentioned, that won’t be enough to kill them immediately. Are you okay?”

“Huh?”

“It’s only getting worse from here. If you start to sympathize with the enemy, you won’t be able to handle what’s coming.”

“Im fine. I have no sympathy for bugs that call each other trash.”

Kite, Gon, (Nams), and Killga headed towards the Chimera Ant Queen’s castle to prevent the king’s birth.

————————

They continued their journey, (Name) struggling a little to keep up after using her ability. She absentmindedly munched on a granola bar, Killua staying back a little to keep an eye on her.

They all stopped when Kite did, waiting for him to speak. “We’re being followed.”

They quickly turned around. “Not from there.”

He looked up, frowning. “There’s quite a number of them.”

Several Chimera ants flew in the air, one more humanoid than the rest. The four now raced through the trees, Killua seemingly angry at how clueless he had been.

“They’re coming from the left and the right. Keep up your guard.” Kite informed them just as a dragonfly like chimera ant flew towards them. The sound of its wings buzzing was so loud that it made (Name)’s ears hurt.

She attempted to seat one away, but they were way too fast. When she tried to get close to use her ability. They hid behind trees. “Crap!”

“The trees are getting in the way!” Gon exclaimed, getting frustrated over the same thing.

“Yeah.”

“Shouldn’t we get out of the forest?” Gon asked, his brow furrowing as another chimera ant weaves through the trees.

“This is a trap.”

———————

(Name) yawned, rubbing her eyes as Kite easily dispatched the chimera ants. They left the woods, the chimera ant that planned to attack them backing off once he sensed he was outclassed by Kite.

“He was able to understand that he was outclassed, and he calmly backed down at once. Most likely, he was a squadron leader.”

They watched as the chimera ants backed away. “We’re following them. Their nest must be nearby. If we follow them, we will find the Queen.”

The three ran through the night as the moon shown over them. Kite used his En to track the chimera ants, nodding. “They’re continuing to go straight. The Chimera Ant nest must be up ahead.”

“Amazing… he’s been picking them up the entire time, never losing them for an instant.” Killua said, hanging back with Gon and (Name).

“Kite said he could use En within a radius of forty-five meters.”

“I’ve heard that those called Nen masters can handle around fifty meters. Kite is nearly there. Actually, given that he’s kept it up for an entire night, he’s probably stronger.”

“Stronger than… a master… the Kite’s the real deal.”

“Yeah, he’s the first real pro Hunter we’ve met.”

(Name) smiled, listening in to their conversation. As they continued to speak, she couldn’t help but feel lucky to have Kite as her teacher. She held onto her backpack straps, watching as Kite continued to walk at a steady pace.

He was… quite handsome, the more she thought about it. Not only that, but he was intelligent and kind. He was kind enough to teach her on an important mission, even though she was noticeably weaker than Gon and Killua, who he already considered a liability if they couldn’t take care of themselves.

The fact he even offered them a chance to leave showed he cared. An uncaring man wouldn’t care if a few kids and a girl died due to their own weakness, but he obviously was not that type of man.

This revelation made her cheeks heat up. Did she… no, there was no way she had some sort of crush on him. She liked Kurapika!

But…

‘He obviously… doesn’t like me…’ her heart twisted in her chest. The memory of his words made her want to curl up into a ball and die.

“This is a pretty brutal place for training, though.”

(Name) began listening back into their conversation to distract herself. Kite responded to Killua’s words. “That’s why I keep asking if your resolve is firm. As you mentioned, Ging had certain expectations when he sent you to me. But I do not intend to train you during this journey. We don’t have that kind of time.”

Soft moonlight trickled through the trees as they continued on. To (Name), it felt like that night was lasting forever.

“I brought you te along because I thought you might be of use, and (Name) because I have a duty to fulfill. From here, it comes down to your resolve. If it’s strong, you’ll develop nen and grow strong via combat. If it’s weak, the ants will eat you.”

The three nodded slowly.

“But we can’t die. We are pro Hunters. Those who call themselves Hunters always get their prey. For Hunters, that is the first commandment. A hunt involves both Hunter and prey. It is a battle of resolve. Emerging victorious from a battle of resolve is what makes a successful hunt. The loser has to follow the winner’s rules and customs. Usually, this means the loser’s death.”

“Rules…”

(Name) paused by a small waterfall, for a moment she had an idea, hearing Gon repeat the word… but it was gone with the wind as soon as Kite continued to speak.

“If you don’t want that result, then win. Improving your nen is important, of course. But to be a successful Hunter, you must understand the enemy and yourself.”

(Name) went quiet again, the sounds of their voices fading away. During this time spent with Kite, Gon, and Killua, she had seen so much death and destruction. Even though it had been said so many times before, her very human mind couldn’t seem to comprehend the possibility of her own death.

Sure, she had thoughts of suicide and even made a few attempts, but she couldn’t quite get the concept of her life being in danger. How many times had she nearly died during the Hunter Exam alone? It was all a bit fuzzy… especially in the beginning when she was still so lost in the dark.

Kurapika had been that light that made the fog clear away. But now… it was as if he was the very fog itself, making the way in front of her unseeable. His words and actions had plunged her back into the abyss she had tried so hard to climb out of.

And part of her resented him for it.

She shook that thought from her head, her heart pouding in her chest. No, no she could never hate or resent him. Kurapika was the person she loved with her entire heart… she didn’t want to feel this way.

So, for the first time, she pushed down those feelings she had for him, attempting to cover them up with her feelings of love and affection. It felt suffocating, almost like her throat was swelling up, but it felt a hell of a lot better than trying to accept that she was human and felt anger for her she had been treated.

She didn’t want to hate him.

By the time she had recovered, Kite sat down on a small, flat boulder. “Ah. That’s right… I just remembered.”

He took out a Hunter’s license, holding it out to Gon. “A Hunter license?”

“This is Ging’s.”

“Huh? Ging’s?”

As they spoke, (Name) and Killua hung back a little. Killua, ever perceptive reached out to grab her sleeve. “You alright?”

She thought for a second before nodding. “Yeah, just… a bit tired, is all.”

After they finished talking, (Name) and Killua rejoined the pair. “Kite…”

He looked up as she spoke, noticing the slight heat in her cheeks. “Thank you… for bringing me. Even though…”

She paused for a moment. “Even though I’m not strong like the others. I-“

“(Name).”

He placed a hand on her shoulder, giving it a light squeeze. “Do you truly think I would have taken you with me if I didn’t believe you could handle yourself? You’ve already proven yourself, so why do you still doubt your own strength?”

Her eyes were wide with surprise. Kite… thought she was strong? “I…”

Before she could say anything else, Kite stood up and walked towards the cliff’s edge, sweat bearing down his face. His eyes darkened as he looked over the landscape. “That’s a monster…”

He crouched down, muttering to himself. “What is this? I don’t believe it!”

“What’s wrong, Kite?” Gon asked as the three approached him.

“Gon, Killua, (Name). Run!”

“Huh?”

“Hurry up! Get out of here!”

(Name) stood there, taking a single step back and reaching to grab the boys.

“Get away from me!”

It all happened so fast. As Kite moved to block the way, (Name) yanked Gon and Killua back with all of her strength. Because she was so focused, she didn’t notice what happened to Kite until it was too late.

The sound of something falling onto the ground made her look up. Her eyes widened in terror, anger beginning to well up in her chest.

Kite’s arm was lying on the ground, blood gushing from the wound. Killua and Gon were in shock, trembling in both fear and anger as the Chimera Ant before them regarded the three with malicious so intense it made the air freeze inside their lungs.

It was a cat like creature, with a human looking face. The creature was no taller than (Name), but gave off the aura of a natural born killer.

Seeing Kite’s missing arm, both Gon and (Name) began to tremble in anger. As Gon charged up, (Name) got ready to heal him at a moments notice, the grass around her wilting.

Killua slammed his hand in Gon’s neck, knocking him out cold. But he was too late to do the same to (Name).

Unfortunately, she had caught the ant’s attention.

The second the ant laid eyes on (Name), it tensed up, it’s hair fluffy up as if it were a cat encountering a predator.

‘That woman… her power… it’s a danger to the future king!’

Killua picked up Gon, ready to grab (Name)’s hand, but was stopped when the Chimera Ant took a step towards her. (Name)’s aura instantly died down, the terror or being that beast’s main focus making her body freeze on the spot.

“Go! Now!”

Kite summoned his watching, catching the attention of the ant again. As soon as it wasn’t looking at (Name), Killua grabbed her hand and began to run.

There was no way for her to keep up with him, so she was dragged along, flying through the air. “Kite!”

She watched, tears rolling down her cheeks as Kite turned to face the monstrous being. He said nothing, but held a thumbs up, before getting into a fighting position.

——————

As the night continued on, rain began to fall over the three. After getting a good distance away, Killua slowed down enough so (Name) wasn’t being dragged behind him like a rag doll.

She breathed out a sigh of relief, jogging next to him. Soon, the ground would become to slick to run on, so they moved as quickly as they could.

Even after getting several miles away, she could still feel the effects of that… thing’s aura. It made her skin crawl, every sound making her flinch. She half expected something to jump out at them from the shadows, bearing its teeth and ready to devour them.

They had all been too overconfident. The three of them were still weaker than Kite who’d lost an arm. That thing knew… but…

(Name) turned to see Killua glancing at her. ‘Why did that thing react to (Name) that way?’

Sure, Killua knew that her power was frightening, but it wasn’t nearly as strong or developed as Gon or Killua’s. What made her the one in need of eliminating? Why did she of all people catch that thing’s attention?

As the sun rose, (Name) stumbled along behind Killua, her legs shaky with exhaustion. She had never ran that much in her life, the Hunter Exam was a piece of cake compared to the previous night.

It didn’t take long for their guides to notice them as they walked across the desert again. It was all (Name) could do to not pass out as they helped her up into the horse. She held Gon in her lap, Killua riding on the other horse.

“…”

The ride back to where they began was quiet, the two occasionally exchanging a worried glance. Was Kite okay?

Had they just left him to die?

The two carried Gon, setting him down at the base of the tree once they finally arrived at the embassy. (Name) plopped down onto the ground, rubbing her swollen legs.

She silently took a granola bar out of her bag and handed it to Killua, who ate it without a word.

She laid her shirt out in the sun, putting on her cardigan to keep warm as they recovered from the long night they had experienced.

Killua took out his phone and called Kite’s friends, (Name) keeping Gon’s head in her lap. She gently brushed his wet hair out of his face, trying to stay strong for the boys.

They confirmed they were headed their way with reinforcements, so the two just waited together.

(Name) reached out and held Killua’s hand, squeezing it lightly as the truck carrying Kite’s friends and backup rolled up. He felt like a coward for leaving Kite behind, a weakling, but (Name) understood what they were up against.

Three men stepped out of the car, approaching the two. Netero was at the front of the pack, while the other two followed behind. The man to his left was tall, with a muscular body and gray hair and tan skin. The man on Netero’s right was tall and thin, wearing a business suit and glasses.

“That’s Chairman Netero…” Killua whispered, (Name) nodding slowly.

“What’s this? It’s just a bunch of kids. If you’re here to play, you’ll get burned. Go back home,” the muscular man said, grinning. He was carrying something big and heavy over his back that made him lean forward slightly, a testimony to his strength.

(Name) and Killua frowned. They both knew that they weren’t any ordinary kids, and (Name) was an adult!

“Stop it, Morel. That isn’t nice… they’re only children,” the man in a suit spoke. (Name) squeezed Killua’s hand, her eyes trained on the two.

Netero let out a little laugh, looking down at Killua. “You look pretty defeated. Was the enemy that strong?”

He said this with no malice. Netero knew that the three in front of him were no amateurs. The enemy they had faced was strong, so strong that even Kite lost an arm to it.

“One of them could use nen. That was the worst aura I’ve ever encountered. You guys are unbelievably strong, but I still can’t see you defeating that thing…” Killua said softly, looking down.

“Whenever humans encounter the unknown, they tend to lose perspective. Currently you’re experiencing a state of panic. We’ll take it from here, so go lie in bed.” the man in a suit said, looking down at the three as if they were toddlers that needed a nap.

(Name)’s eyebrow twitched, and her grip on Killua’s hand tightened.

“Haha, you’re no better than I am, Knov,” Morel, the muscular man said. “Kid… the minute you start talking about who can win in a nen fight, you’re wrong. In most cases, you won’t know your opponents abilities. One instant of carelessness is all it takes to turn the tables and cost a life. You can’t make assumptions based on the amount of aura displayed. The battle can turn at any point. That’s what fighting with nen means. But, regardless… you must always fight certain of victory! That is a nen user’s spirit. The moment you were overwhelmed by the opponent’s aura and fled, you were disqualified. You’re lower than a loser!”

With his last words, (Name) stood up. “The hell did you just say?”

She stepped forward, her nen spiking. “I’ve had just about enough of your high and mighty talk. If you had been out there in front of that thing, I bet at least one of you would have cried like a little bitch.”

Killua watched this, his eyes going wide. “(Name), stop it, they’re-“

She held up her hand. “And another thing, does it make you feel big and tough to pick on someone smaller than you? Do you feel like a real man when calling a child a loser after making a really hard decision that saved all of our lives? Why I should-“

She raised her fist, but Netero caught it. “That’s enough, (Name).”

Morel looked down at her as if taking her presence in for the first time. He snorted, reaching out his large hand to ruffle her hair. “Looks like this one has some spunk. Kite’s message was right, this girl has potential.”

Netero nodded, examining her aura. “Kite said that you’ve figured out your nen type?”

She nodded slowly, still trying to fix her hair after it was ruffled. “… yes.”

He nodded, looking to Killua. “Is Gon asleep?”

Killua stayed silent for a minute, only relaxing when he saw (Name) wasn’t in any immediate danger. “He was going to attack the enemy, so I used force to stop him. I didn’t have time to control my strength, so I don’t know when he’ll wake up.”

Morel laughed. “That kid shows some promise then.”

“Morel!”

“It’s difficult to believe that giant chimera ants are eating humans, but since it appears to be true, we must keep casualties to a minimum. If we send fighters who aren’t strong enough, they’ll only strengthen the enemy. Do you understand?”

“Yeah…”

Netero began to walk away, but turned the last second. “We sent two assassins to the nearest village. It’s your decision whether you want to fight. But you must defeat them before you come. If you wish to live as a Hunter… we are not desperate for help. We only seek the strong. That being said…”

He paused for just a moment. “(Name)… you will be coming back, guaranteed, if that’s what you wish.”

She blinked, pointing to herself. “Me..? You want… you want me to come back? Why-“

“There is no time to explain. If you wish to come, then use the time to train and refine your ability. Once the victors between Killua and Gon and the assassins are decided, you will come back with them.”

He threw two playing pieces, Killua catching them immediately.

Killua squeezed her hand, preventing her from accepting or declining.

She thought about Netero’s words on the way to the village. All she could think about was how did her abilities even compare to anyone present, and why weren’t Killua and Gon the ones picked?

(Name) took her turn carrying Gon on her back as walked into town.

She raised an eyebrow as Killua looked over a note left on a blackboard.

To: Gon and Killua

‘Will you fight?’

——————

(Name) and Killua sat at Gon’s side as he rested in bed. It was late in the afternoon, the sun filtering in through the window harsh on the two.

The entire way there, Killua had been completely silent. She didn’t blame him for that, the professional Hunters’ words had been harsh, but had a bit of truth to him. There was only so much comfort she could give him without making it seem like it was out of pity. That was the last thing he needed right now, to be coddled as if he was just a child.

She wasn’t surprised when Gon began to stir, raising his hand to block the light from his eyes.

“Killua… thank.”

Killua looked down, his eyes darkening. “Why would you thank me?”

“Weren’t you the one who stopped me? Had I lost control back there, I would’ve gotten in Kite’s way. Then, all four of us could have died.”

“But I… let Kite die…”

“Kite is alive! He wouldn’t ever let that thing beat him! But considering his injury, he’d have a hard time moving around. So he’s probably hiding. Waiting for us to return! So we should hurry back… once we’ve become stronger! To save Kite!”

(Name) watched the two, her gaze softening. Before her eyes, she was watching Killua’s heart open up, watching him fall in love.

“Let’s go. To become stronger!”

(Name) grinned, grabbing both of their hands and leading them to the bathroom. “But first, you two both need a bath and a change of clothes, pronto!”

She walked through town with them after they both bathed and had a meal.

“What are those?”

“Tokens. You take a piece of marked wood and split it, giving each half to a different person. They work as proof that you’re an ally, or to authenticate a document.”

(Name) stopped, ordering them all some ice cream at a stall before walking back and handing it all out. The three continued their journey, now with a special treat.

“In this case, each of the two assassins holds one matching token. We defeat them and take the tokens.”

They went back to the blackboard to see it had been erased. As (Name) licked her ice cream, the feeling of being watched made the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.

“You must be Killua, Gon, and (Name).”

She jumped, turning to see a frightening looking woman behind them. Her hair was long and unkept, her eyes big and staring.

“Nice to meet you… my name is Palm. It’s a pleasure.”

It certainly didn’t seem like a pleasure, a black aura hung around her and her voice sounded far from happy.

“Boys, stranger danger.”

(Name) stood in front of them, hiding the two behind her back.

“Oh my… no need to be so tense. I imagine the chairman probably didn’t provide many details. Allow me to explain. Why don’t we have some tea?”

She began to walk away, and (Name) looked at the two. “Holy… boys, I think we just had a first hand encounter with an otherworldly spirit.”

“That’s not very nice (Name).”

“Gon, I’m with (Name). That was terrifying.”

The three reluctantly followed the women, (Name) and Killua grimacing every time she turned back to stare at them.

———————

“I am a student of Mr. Knov. He said I would only get in his way. But I insisted on accompanying him.”

“Who’s that?” Gon asked as the woman before them stirred a spoonful of sugar into her tea.

“She probably means one of the guys with Chairman Netero.”

“Yes, the one wearing a black suit. My teacher is an incredible person. Cool, intelligent, composed… ah, composed and cool mean the same thing!”

(Name) grimaced as the sugar began to pile in Palm’s cup, peeking over the edge as she poured more and more in. “Ah dear… oh, but I only respect him, that’s all. There’s nothing romantic about my feelings… at least I may wish that were the case.”

She continued to ramble, (Name) glancing at the boys. Killua met her gaze, shaking his head.

‘She’s nuts.’

After she finished speaking, Palm drank the tea, making the three wince. “No one can say what will happen… after all love is a spontaneous thing, don’t you agree?”

“Uh, can I interrupt you? Aren’t we supposed to fight you?” Killua asked.

“Huh? Oh dear… yes, I apologize. The chairman and my teacher said I couldn’t accompany them any farther. But I insisted on going with them. It feels like I spent a lifetime just trying to convince them of my determination. And finally they relented, with one condition.”

“Uh, I’m asking about…”

“My teacher may appear to be a cold person, but he’s actually quite gentle. But you have to spend a lot of time with him to realize that. Ah, by “spending time with him,” I don’t mean-“

“Okay, we get it! What’s the condition?!”

(Name) jumped when Killua snapped, finally having enough of the woman’s ramblings. She nearly had a heart attack when the woman went silent, glaring at them.

“Knuckle and Shoot’s defeat. To think those vulgar, barbaric unmannered brats will be allowed inside NGL before me… I cannot allow that!”

Palm’s aura rose, causing her drink to overflow, spilling onto (Name) and Gon. “Miss Palm, turn off your hatsu!”

———————

(Name) huffed, using the bathroom sink to wet a napkin before dabbing at the stain on her dress. It was one she just bought that day, and she could tell it would be a tough stain to get out later.

‘Damn crazy lady… I need to get back to Gon and Killua before-‘

(Name) nearly jumped out of her skin when her phone rang. She nearly dropped it as she pulled it out of her pocket, her hands still wet while she struggled to unlock it.

“H-hello?”

The line was silent for a moment, and (Name) glanced at the number.

It wasn’t one she recognized.

“This is (Name) (Last Name), correct?”

But she recognized the voice all too well.

“C-Chrollo!?”

Her blood ran cold, the stain on her dress suddenly irrelevant. “Good, it seems you remember me. That makes this much easier.”

The line went quiet again, except for the sound of rustling paper. “I request a favor from you, (Name).”

“A… favor?”

Her jaw dropped in disbelief, her phone nearly falling with it, but she caught it just in time.

“Yes, a favor. What’s the saying… you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours? I need you to do something for me, and in exchange I will give you information that would be useful to you.”

She gritted her teeth, her grip on her phone increasing. “You’re a murderer, you killed the Kurta clan without any mercy, why would I ever-“

“Because I have information on the scarlet eyes.”

She paused, taking several seconds to process that information. Not a word was uttered as he continued.

“Your little boyfriend wants the eyes back, no? Then why don’t we form a little… truce?”

“Truce?”

She could hear him chuckle on the other end. “Yes, after you do this favor for me, perhaps we can form somewhat of an alliance… but with one condition. I will not use any means to get to the chain user through you, but you will not give the chain user any information on us that could lead to him finding our location or harming us.”

He worded himself carefully, keeping his voice neutral. It didn’t take a genius to figure out that he probably had some loophole in mind, but the information he might have was too precious to pass up.

“… tell what the favor is. I’ll decide if I’ll do it after.”

She could almost hear the smug smirk he wore in his voice. “A member of the Phantom Troupe was injured in a job, and no one else is close enough to their location to help.”

(Name) frowned. “And you want me to help them?”

“Yes, that would be what I called you for. You have healing abilities, do you not?”

“How did y-“

He cut her off with a chuckle before she could even finish her sentence. “I have my ways. That’s not important though, what is of higher importance is whether you’ll do this favor or not.”

On one hand, if she didn’t accept this favor, a member of the phantom troupe would potentially die, lightening Kurapika’s load. On the other hand, the information Chrollo had was priceless, considering he was the one that sold all of the scarlet eyes in the first place.

“… alright, I’ll do this favor for you. But don’t get it twisted, this isn’t an alliance. It’s give and take, nothing more and nothing less.”

“And that’s fine.” Chrollo said, letting out a sigh. “I’ll send over the information via text message within the next 5 minutes.”

And with that, he ended the call. (Name) stared down at her phone, her heart heavy. ‘I wonder if I’ll… regret this one day.’

She dropped the napkin she had been using to wipe her dress into the trash, her hands shaking slightly when she opened the door.

As soon as she got back to the table, Killua noticed her strange behavior. His eyes darted from her shaky hands to the scowl on her face. “You alright?”

“Yeah… just saw a spider in the bathroom.”

Neither Killua or Gon felt comfortable with (Name) splitting off from them, but she was adult and they couldn’t really stop her.

“It’s alright, I’m just going some shopping. I’ll be back soon, I promise.”

She tried to put them at ease, but Killua wasn’t easily fooled. He watched her leave, his stomach hurting. Killua didn’t quite understand why he felt so uneasy watching her go, but he knew that she wasn’t just going shopping.

“She’ll be okay, Killua.”

The white haired boy glanced back to Gon, who was smiling brightly. “She’s strong, we both saw what she could do in NGL.”

“Yeah, but…”

As her silhouette disappeared within the crowd of people, Killua couldn’t help but worry.

“She was never this nervous in NGL.”

———————

The directions Chrollo sent were concise and easy to follow, so much so that it was almost eerie. He correctly assumed there would be heavier foot traffic in some areas, and estimated the time she would get there with that in mind.

The location was a small, dingy motel on the outskirts of town. The lobby smelled like mothballs and piss, and the walls were stained a nasty yellow from years of guests smoking inside. ‘Gross…’

“Can I help you?”

The woman at the front desk spoke lazily, blowing out a puff of cigarette smoke between sentences.

“Um, yes. I’m here to visit the person in room 204.”

The woman waved her hand, pointing down the hall. Without another word, (Name) began following where she pointed.

The air felt thick, and it wasn’t just the cigarette smoke. Someone’s nen was making the air heavy with rage and frustration. ‘Must be the phantom troupe member…’

She knocked on room 204’s door, flinching when someone yelled out. “Hurry up!”

And yet again, she recognized that voice, groaning internally. When she opened the door, she saw the interrogator of the Phantom Troupe sitting on the edge of the messy bed, shirtless. He looked beyond irritated, tapping his foot and grumbling under his breath.

“Uh… Chrollo sent me to-“

“Already know. Get over with.”

She stood still for just a moment, but moved quickly went he sent her a glare. “Can I see the-“

He showed her his back, and she couldn’t help wincing at the sight. Large gashes, deep enough for her to be amazed she wasn’t seeing bone stretched out across his back.

“Stupid bitch… hit me when back turned, coward…” Feitan grumbled, shaking in anger. He didn’t wince in the slightest as she placed her palms over the wound, only growling out in warning.

“This is pretty bad… I’m not sure how much I can heal you with my current abilities.”

Feitan glanced back at her, a scowl on his face. “Just do it. Take too long.”

(Name) huffed, concentrating her aura into her hands and closing her eyes so she could focus on envisioning his flesh knitting back together, of the skin turning pink with scar tissue instead of being a deep red. Within a few minutes, sweat was pouring down her forehead as she finished, panting softly.

His back was still scarred and sensitive to the touch, but she had sped up the healing process to the point it looked like he had received the scars months ago.

Feitan stood up and looked in the mirror, nodding slowly. “Chrollo call you later. Leave.”

With that, he walked to the bathroom turning to watch her go. She took the hint, not wanting to anger a member of the Phantom Troupe.

As she walked down the street, she saw a man walking down the street, shouting into a megaphone and wearing sighs. His black pompadour caught her eyes…

“My name is Knuckle Bine! I am a beast hunter! I challenge the two punitive force candidates to a duel! Come tonight at midnight sharp, and face me! I won’t try to run or hide. I won’t bring any weapons or allies. It’ll just be me and me alone. So come and fight me!”

(Name) sighed, continuing down the street. ‘That’s Knuckle, one of the people Killua and Gon have to defeat. He hasn’t mentioned where they’re supposed to meet, though…’

“A man never turns his back on an enemy! I’ll follow you to the ends of the earth, you won’t get away!”

She stayed neutral, trying not to react to his words. If she gave any sort of reaction, it might clue him in to the fact that she was in fact allied with Gon and Killua, which could be bad for her.

As (Name) made her way back to their hotel, a few shopping bags in hand to make sure Gon and Killua weren’t suspicious of her, she felt… strangely tired. Healing Feitan had taken a lot out of her, and she didn’t know if she would be able to hide that exhaustion from the others.

Opening the door to their room, (Name) nearly jumped when she spotted Bisky training the boys in the middle of the room.

“B-Bisky?”

The woman turned quickly, her hands on her hips. “Finally, you’re back. You’ll be joining their training as well. Start with Ren.”

She blinked for a moment, yelping when the blonde whacked her on the head. “I said start with Ren!”

“Y-yes ma’am!”

After she went into ren, Bisky nodded. “Maintain that for three hours.”

The three looked shocked. “Killua…” Gon whispered, frowning. “How long can you last?”

“I’m too condition, I can manage around 55 minutes max.”

(Name)’s jaw dropped. ‘55 minutes? I don’t think I can even last 15…’

“Until you complete this, we can’t move on to the next step. Train like your lives are on the line!”

(Name) passed out after maintaining nen for a whopping 30 minutes after being forced to do it over and over.

‘She’s far behind the other two…’ Bisky thought, watching as the other two laid in a crumpled pile with her. ‘Yet Netero wants her to be the only guaranteed member that gets to go back to NGL… I’ll have to observe her further to see what that old man has planned.’

“Okay, you can rest for today! Tomorrow behind in 30 minutes. Looks like it’s time for me to use my power.”

She summoned Cookie-chan, who gave the three relief with a gentle massage as they slept.

——————

(Name) woke up to her cheek being pinched lightly. “Hey, girl. Go get us some drinks, you still need time to recover. Even with cookie-chan, there was still some severe exhaustion that even she couldn’t fix.”

Bisky gave her a look, as if inspecting her. (Name) stood quickly, avoiding the glances from Gon and Killua. “Okay, I’ll go. I should be back soon.”

The second (Name) was out the door, Bisky turned to the other two. “So, what do you two think of her?”

Killua grunted, struggling to maintain Ren. “Do we have to answer r-right now?”

Bisky raised an eyebrow. “Yes.”

Gon went first, a determined look on his face. “(Name) is our good friend. She’s kind, and her nen ability is a testament to that.”

Killua smiled, looking at the ground. “Yeah… she uses it mostly for healing, but while we were fighting the chimera ants, she completely destroyed it with her nen.”

Bisky raised an eyebrow. “How exactly? What’s her ability?”

“Time, I think. Specifically the ability to speed up the growth rate of cells.”

Bisky paused, her eyes going wide. At this stage in her nen journey, (Name) shouldn’t have been able to completely destroy a foe with her nen. If she was this strong now, there was no telling how her ability would develop given time and training.

‘Netero… what do you have planned?’

(Name) walked down the street back towards the hotel. She had a bag of drinks in one arm, and some takeout in the other. Bisky had them training the entire night, not giving her the chance to get some dinner. ‘I’m so hungry, but that training made me so nauseous…’

She sat on a park bench, sleepily munching on her food. Maybe she could get a few minutes of sleep before she had to head back…

Before she could lay down and catch a few minutes of sleep, she heard a man call out to her. (Name) groaned internally, her eyelids heavy as she sat up.

“Hey, you!”

The man stomped over, and it was way too late for (Name) to do anything by the time she recognized him. It was the man from earlier, Knuckle.

“Ya think it’s safe to be sleeping on a random bench in the middle of the night!?”

She blinked, staring up at the man as he glowered down at her. “Um…”

“There’s a pervert on the loose, don’t you read the damn newspaper!? Tsk…”

He had took one of his hands out of his pockets. “Come on, let’s get you home.”

(Name) stared at his hand for a moment, biting back a smile. “How can I be sure you’re not the pervert?”

His face erupted into a red blush, and he began stuttering. “W-would never! It’s not manly to force yourself on a woman!”

She laughed, taking his hand. “I’m just kidding. You seem harmless enough.”

Knuckles was still pretty flustered, leading her away by the hand. “W-which way?”

“Just to the next block, I can walk by myself from there.”

He didn’t answer, probably still recovering. Once they reached her stop, he stood firm, crossing his arms over his chest. “Go on, I’ll make sure no one follows ya.”

She smiled, giving him a wave before she began her walk back to the hotel.

‘Gon and Killua will like him, he’s a nice guy.’

After she was out of his view, her smile dropped as her phone buzzed. She had a feeling she knew who it was, but looked at the contact just to be sure.

Chrollo: Here’s the information, as promised.

(Name) swallowed, looking over the pictures and walls of text. Once it was all saved she forwarded it to Leorio. Kurapika had blocked her, so she knew he wouldn’t answer her.

After she sent the text, Leorio called her instantly. It was late where (Name) was, but mid afternoon for Leorio. “(Name), where the hell did you get this information..?”

“… do you really want to know..?”

Leorio sighed. “Yes, of course. It couldn’t have been easy to get.”

“Yeah,” she said, rubbing her temple. “Working with the Phantom Troupe is a real headache.”

The line went silent as she continued walking.

“The WHAT!?”

—————————

Kurapika sipped on some coffee, reading the text Leorio had just sent him. There was information in at least two pairs of scarlet eyes, containing the buyers name and last known location.

‘How he got this info, I have no idea.’ Kurapika thought, setting down his drink. ‘But it’s too good to pass up.’

He stretched, glancing at the clock. Kurapika’s shift to guard Neon started in only 15 minutes, something that made him groan tiredly. He had only gotten a few hours of sleep the night before, his nightmares making a restful night impossible.

But unlike usual, it wasn’t images of his dead clan and their missing eyes that haunted his nightmares.

No, it was the image of (Name), her face unrecognizable after being smashed in. He didn’t know how his mind knew it was her, but he did.

“Why weren’t you here, Pika? Why didn’t you protect me?”

That’s the only thing she said, repeating as the bloody gore that was her face shifted and melted away, leaving only her crushed skull in its wake. Empty sockets stared back at him, the dark holes swallowing him up…

And that’s when he shot awake. As he stared up at the clock, now only 5 minutes remaining before he had to start his shift, he tried to push away the awful memory of his dream.

She was safe because of his absence. He… he hadn’t put her in danger, and she didn’t need his protection. That’s what he kept telling himself as he smoothed out his suit jacket and combed out his messy hair.

‘I… hope she’s okay.’

With one last look at the cardigan he had woken up with weeks ago, Kurapika left his hotel room, ready to start his day.

[grilledcheese-aspiration]

i keep forgetting i made other monster high dolls for Waverly bc they rarely show up (sad) but i spotted Draculaura in the background and decided Batz should go talk to her....it did not go well. turns out, Draculaura is kind of a binch.