#bold of her to assume MUSIC MAN thinks

[fnafverse-quotes]

Music Man: Do you think Chippy thinks in Spanish, or English?

Funtime Chica: Bold of you to assume he thinks.

[lizzaneia-elizalde]

Yandere! Male! idol x manager! gn! reader

WOOOH finally able to update. I got busy due to working for a summer reading camp. Woop tee doo... At least I got money for a new phone LMAO

And we finally, FINALLY finished the second set of yans! For now, no new yans will be done, and will be focusing on the boys!

Song featured: Too Sweet by Hozier

EDIT: I FORGOT THAT I MADE ELIAS THE SIBLING OF THE YAN! IDOL AND ALREADY NAMED HIM ZAYNE! I'll probably just change Zayne's to Tae-Joon.

Yan! Idol name: Raven/Tae-Joon

The deafening lights and cheers of the people in the gigantic stadium rang around the building. They kept cheering, almost shaking the whole place from their energy.

As the band started playing the intro song, the cheers suddenly amped up in intensity with the focus going back on the stage. Each and every lightstick glowed red, flooding the whole area with a scarlet hue.

The bass pumped, the music riffed, the vibe electric.

The stage fogged up, covering the whole place before the cheering got louder when a appeared in the fog.

Then, there he is.

"HOW'S IT GOING CITY OF [redacted]!"

A charismatic, boyish smile, with pearly white teeth that blinded the secret paparazzi in the crowd, with a tall and lean stature that encompasses talent and discipline in one body, and facial features that make people swoon even in just his photocards.

"RAVEN! RAVEN! RAVEN!"

The man, the idol named Raven, started to sing. His voice was smooth and low as the romantic yet also sensual lyrics pour out of his pink lips.

It can't be said I'm an early bird

It's ten o'clock before I say a word

Baby, I can never tell

How do you sleep so well?

He goes up to the edge, swinging around the mic stand as if it was a dance partner. One can hear the passion going off in his tone as his messy hair got flipped upward.

Don't you just wanna wake up, dark as a lake?

Smelling like a bonfire, lost in a haze?

If you're drunk on life, babe, I think it's great

But while in this world

He gets on the middle of the stage, and the pedestal raised as the spotlight went to him.

I think I'll take my whiskey neat

My coffee black and my bed at three

You're too sweet for me

You're too sweet for me

Everyone was seduced, everyone was mesmerized. Raven gave off seductive energy that they held their breath every time his gaze penetrates them. And some even assumed his gaze was on theirs, making them squeal.

It was truly a night for everyone in the stadium.

After almost two hours of performing, Raven, with sweat pouring out of him but still managed to look amazing, descended down on the stage hatch.

But the once shining star back in the stage suddenly threw his beret on the ground.

"FUCK! What was that buzzing sound in the dance break?!" Raven yelled. "Are you serious?! I thought we went over this!"

The people in the back started to groan inwardly. There he goes again.

"Ah... Tae-Joon..." The director said, "We made sure to reprimand the lights and sounds..."

Raven, or rather Tae-Joon off stage, clicked his tongue in anger. "Whatever. Bring me my coffee! I need a break."

"But you can just go home after the cleanup. Do you still want coffee?"

A naive voice said, obviously new to the scene as she juggle with her box of wires.

She's a big fan of Raven and pulled a lot of strings just to be there. A bit bold, she decided to be the concerned type of staff and berate him of his beverage choice.

Yet she absolutely cannot see the pale faces and the dread sticking on the visages of the people around her. She's in too deep in her tunnel vision of Raven to notice his microphone cracking. Another thing to add to the casualties.

"You... What's your name?" Raven glowered. The fan can feel her heart rate pick up as she told her name. "Oh. You're new. All i could say is..."

Raven got up to her and glared at her much smaller form "You're fired. Get out! Nobody gets to dictate what I damn drink!"

The woman was too stunned to speak as she got dragged out of the venue.

This is Raven. Or in real life, Tae-Joon. A charming man in his own right, in front of the public, he's a gentleman with a seductive touch. Talented, with a handsome visage, he's an international idol.

But in reality, he's one hell of a spoiled brat.

"I WANT MY COFFEE NOW!"

Somehow, because of his sheer dumb luck and his reputation, nobody from his staff decided to expose him for what he really is.

He's full of himself and loves to gloat about his own achievements. And one thing he makes sure to take advantage of is his looks.

He brushes his hair back, shaking off sweat (ew) yet somehow looks so ethereal as he clicked his tongue in annoyance, mesmerizing his staff.

He even went as far as to feed his delusional fans and stans.

He's that far gone.

"Where the hell is my coffee!"

"AY COFFEE!"

He's awful to everyone.

Except...

"Tsk. Tae-Joon... If I hear you yell one more time!"

Raven cowers a bit, pouting as he slithers towards his manager.

"But manager~!"

As if he's a new person, Raven clung to you. His head on your shoulder as he played with your left hand.

"I want my coffee and none of these incompetent people are giving me my coffee!" He whined like a child complaining to his parent. "Scold them for me pwease!"

The staff, used to it, sighed in relief as your deadpan look didn't tolerate Raven's rudeness. On your right hand is his coffee that you handed to him.

"Manager! Thank you so much!" His eyes wide and appreciative, he sips on it and sighs in relief. "Ah... So good... This is why I love you, manager."

Goodness. He's putty in your hands.

Tae-Joon was once a trainee. He's naturally good looking already so he's being pulled left and right by companies to be in their side. He's an uncut gem, a diamond in the rough waiting to be polished. They saw his potential and wanted a slice of his being.

The once sweet boy, hardened by the harsh training, became a gloating hardhead from the way these people fight for him. After all, he was just a quiet, ambitious guy in highschool. He wanted more, and he got it through hard work and natural charm. And now, years later, he's about to reach his dreams.

Yet once he got in the company of his choice, his demands were... Too much.

"I need to share a dorm with others? No way!"

"Ugh the mattress is too stiff."

"Seriously?! You want me to train for five hours a day?! Two hours! Just two hours!"

"What are these clothes?! These are not branded!"

"No way that I'm performing in that small stage. I don't care if I'm pre-debut, that is ass!"

"Trash beats. Next."

The company was exhausted. He's not even raking money in, yet he's too demanding for his own good.

Desperate, the company opened their doors for a babysitter manager that has a "calm and pleasing personality", "trait that can work in high stress situations", "adaptability", "great leadership skills and authoritative", and can "teach those who are under them". Aka: someone who can tame the damn bird.

That's where you came in.

You were just a fresh graduate in desperate need of a job. Nobody was hiring you since you're new, and needed more experience.

The hiring process was intense, to say the least. You had to herd rowdy children and change them to upright good kids in 10 days. You somehow did it and even got gifts from the grateful parents. Next, you had to juggle schedules and ridiculous demands. Then, you had to endure being yelled and insulted at.

Your mind, heart, and body are now made of steel from that hiring process and you're the only one who rose to the top.

"Congratulations. Here's your care. His name is Tae-Joon, stage name Raven." The head said, nervous and hopeful that you with Tae-Joon will change his attitude.

Tae-Joon raised an eyebrow and sneered. "Ugly."

You were flabbergasted. This is a supposed to be future idol?

But you can only manage a twitch on your lips.

It was hell with him. You thought the hiring process/training regimen was bad, but this was something else.

A explosive personality, he's sassy and mean to a point of wanting to face palm through your head. You had to physically reel him in at some point just because of a hater.

But unlike the others who cowered and tolerated his behavior, you were stern with his behavior and lectured him most of the time.

"You can't just yell at miss Park just because she messed up your order!"

"Get the hell up! You're going to be late to your training!"

"Who the heck do you think you are, ripping up clothes like that huh?!"

You were feisty in your own right and constantly butt heads with him.

But even then, even just with you around, he's just a growling beast cowering from your lectures as you yelled at him.

Yet, even if as you yell at him, your caring hands wiped his sweat off and gave him his water. If somebody actually messed with him, you would lecture that guy. And there are some times that you laugh at his antics and shake your head.

You treated him like an actual human with feelings, rather than a ticking time bomb.

Slowly but surely, Tae-Joon clung to you. You were his only ally in this godforsaken industry and the only one who understood him. You also didn't tolerate his personality and shaped him to be somehow decent.

And, as his manager, you cared for him like nobody did.

Your lectures became less frequent, and he had more instances to see where you smile at him proudly as he finally had his solo debut. More time to talk to him normally, and had small, intimate moments that fuels his social needs.

And as his fame skyrocket, you were always there, waving his lightstick and being his number one fan.

Understandably, he fell for you.

He started to be openly affectionate with you, constantly confessing his love to the point that management had to tell him off to stop being so open with his affection since paparazzi can take a video or picture and ruin his reputation.

He honestly doesn't care. But with you raising an eyebrow at him, he pouts and only becomes clingy in private.

He'd rather hold it in than nothing at all.

And hell be damned if someone took you away from him. Because he may be somehow tolerable now, but that's only because you're there with him.

Raven just got back from practicing for his new song, and was totally exhausted. He dragged his feet, clearly irritable especially that you weren't there with him.

The staff knew he's not in a good mood so they steer clear of his way.

"Have you seen my manager?" Raven asked a staff who only shook their head. "'kay..."

He looks so depressed that the people around him took pity on the guy as he trudged towards the head.

He passed a meeting room and he heard your voice.

"Another Tae-Joon?"

Another him? What?

He decided to listen in and he heard the managerial head clear his throat.

"Yes. Since Raven is calmer now, we think he needs to move on to another manager. You, on the other hand, will be training another... Hothead."

You held your head, feeling a headache incoming.

"No way. I'm not going through that again. I went through hell with Tae-Joon before. I'm not repeating that."

Ouch. Tae-Joon held his chest, a bit saddened by your words. Well, it was true but it didn't mean it didn't hurt.

Yet... You're not going to be his manager anymore?

Strangely, he felt the numbness creeping up his nape.

"No buts, y/n. You're going to be transfered."

"Did you ask Tae-Joon about this?"

"... Yes, Raven gave the thumbs up."

Liar. LIAR!

Tae-Joon wanted to rush in the room and shake the managerial head until he faints. He didn't give the thumbs up at all!

But he's strangely rooted in place as he heard you sigh.

"Okay. Where's this guy?"

"His name is [redacted]. He'll be here by Monday so be prepared."

When you finally finished the meeting, you went out of the room yet felt a lingering warmth by the wall.

Meanwhile, Tae-Joon rushed towards the trainee building. Eyes cold yet body tense. He wanted to see who the hell is this [redacted]. Nobody, as in nobody will be yours. Only he can be yours.

The trainees were flabbergasted as they saw Raven in the flesh, gawking at his presence and bowing in respect.

Tae-Joon didn't care. He wanted to see where this [redacted] is.

Room 5, and he bursts open through the door.

"What the hell- Raven?" The guy was slack jawed, starstruck. "I'm- I'm a big fan--"

Tae-Joon grabbed his collar and looked him in the eye. It was filled with unbridled rage yet at the same time, bone chilling coldness.

"Fix your fucking attitude." Tae-Joon warned. "Don't be over your head, worm. You better be goddamn nice or else I'll lob your head off."

[redacted] felt like it wasn't just a baseless joke, so he swallowed his saliva and nodded.

"Now. I better see you demand a transfer to the group idol department. You hear me? You aren't debuting solo." Tae-Joon tightened his grip. "Understood?"

It reached the ears of the head that Tae-Joon threatened [redacted]. But don't know what. All they know is that [redacted] pleaded to debut in a group and was suddenly meek and quiet when he transfered departments.

Yet, they somehow knew it had to do something with you, as he clung to you desperately for a week after that.

Then and there, they knew to never, ever try to separate you from him. If they don't want to let go of their greatest asset and set him off.

So, despite how dangerous Raven has become, they forced [redacted] to be quiet by... Not so savorable means.

"You're not leaving me, right?" Tae-Joon whispered, looking exhausted yet satisfied as he hugged your waist.

You, who just realized how deep Tae-Joon is in his affection, sighed and rubbed his head. "I'm not."

And it better stay that way.

[elliesbff]

something stupid — abby anderson

summary: you and abby found a music store on a scavenge and decided to indulge in the hidden artifacts. notes: heavy fluff , reader and abby have no established relationship , enjoy ! wc: 2,779 | tags: @taissaswifelowkey

you and abby were scavenging for anything that could be of use as you, mel, owen, yara and lev, and alice were seeking refuge in owen's renowned palace of peace; the seattle aquarium. no other WLF soldier, or scar (that you knew of) had any knowledge of this place, let alone thought it to be an AWOL soldier hideout.

you couldn't remember the last time you had been at the FOB, it had most likely been a week, but with the frequent journeys you and the group went on, it had all melded together into one blurry memory.

you both were walking down the abandoned streets of seattle, where infected were rarely ever seen anymore. upon your growing curiosity, (and boredom) you slid into a concealed opening in the wall, covered by a large, rotting board that had succumb to its age.

"abby, through here." you urged, dragging yourself through the large gap with ease. she followed behind you, essentially following your lead during one of your many countless adventures.

shuffling through the enclosed space, abby's arm gently grazes yours, trying to shimmy through as quick a possible.

"why in such a rush, anderson?" you humour her, unable to turn your head from the lack of room, but you could hear the smile on her lips as she replied, "am i not allowed to be afraid of closed spaces?" she questions you, and you just scoff. with nothing much to be said, you finally exit the suffocating crevice. as your eyes danced around the room, you realise you've stumbled into a music shop. abby seems to share the same excitement as she stumbles in after you.

"woah, look at these bad boys..." abby walks around, tip-toes dragging along the dusty floorboards. her eyes are pinned on a vinyl basket, many old, and unopened vinyl cases. she picks one up, softly blowing on the cover to budge off any dust. it was an old rock band, 'ac-dc' it read in bold, fiery red and orange text.

"you think lev would like that?" you ponder, inching closer to her as you both analyse the unopened vinyl. "i think it'll help him let out all that teenage rage." she smiles smugly, packing it in her bag.

"oh you seem to know a lot about that." you smile, looking around the almost near untouched store. it had its fair share of dust and cobwebs, but compared to other places you've visited, this didn't come close to reckaged.

"don't i know." she stands back up, now more keen to find more music to fill the deafeningly quiet aquarium with.

there were all sorts of prizes you just couldn't help but touch. gramophones, cd players, speakers, turntables -- there was just too much to choose from to take to the safehouse.

you begin to browse the vinyls yet again, and notice a '60's' label. wow, wasn't that a long time ago, you mumble to yourself. with abby too busy by the rock and metal section, you start snatching a look at the oldies section.

part of you deep down wishes you could've lived a day back then, just to see what it was like. you knew people at the FOB who were actually alive before the outbreak, even before the new century. you couldn't be more grateful for their stories about pre-outbreak. they were a historical treasure.

and so were these profound albums. you pick one up, the title and cover striking your heart immediately. it was a dull gold, with a face of a man plastered on the side, in three different expressions. it read 'frank and nancy sinatra; something stupid'. the name being 'something stupid' meant it had to be good. you gleefully packed it away in your bag before taking more of a look around.

"we better grab one of these before we head out." you call out to abby, pointing at the dusty gramophone. it featured a large yellow horn, which you assumed was the speaker, and a vinyl player at the bottom with a needle as well as a manual crank on the side. abby gives you an understanding smile, knowing just how keen you were about this shop. it was like a preserved time capsule you heard a couple of the seniors talk about back home.

"yes ma'am" she responds, that childish, beautiful smile on her face spreading colour to each of her freckled cheeks.

pushing aside the raft sized board out of the way of the crevice, you both had a shit-load of bounty in your packs. this was definitely a place to remember for later.

abby's collection included a majority of rock, metal and alternative albums, as well as some cassette tapes for a walkman she found some time ago -- a gift for the kids. well, most of what she collected was for the kids. how generous she was, it made you stifle a smile.

your collection of vinyls was very contrasting from hers. mostly 60's and 50's jazz. it wasn't your usual cup of tea, but you wanted to try something new. after all, you could always come back and get something more your taste.

'something stupid', 'it's been a long, long time' and 'hopelessly devoted to you' were a couple of your favourites you picked out. and you wanted to surprise abby with them.

she had no idea what you picked, except from your purposefully vague description of 'oldies' music.

"so, you happy with your presents?" she nudges your arm playfully, pulling up the straps of her pack. it was kind of hard to stand up straight and not slouch with all the collectibles in your bags.

you hum, a shit-eating grin spreading on your face at her question. she noticed, nudging you harder.

"what’re you smiling about?" abby's braid slid to the side as she turned, bending down to meet your gaze on the walk back to the aquarium. this was about as peaceful as a walk could get in seattle. this specific suburb was a complete ghost town -- not even infected plagued these grounds.

"you'll see." looking up at her, you can feel your heart climb for your throat. those eyes never failed to take your breath away. with an almost hazel brown surrounding her pupil, it almost faded into black as you held her gaze.

she doesn't continue to instigate, only pulling away and holding her pack steady, a solid arm wrapping around your shoulder.

"i can't wait to show the others, especially lev.. he's always humming up a new song to keep himself busy." abby expresses, her arm tightening around you, but it doesn't feel suffocating. it feels relieving. it's as if a soft weight were being applied to your chest, aiding you with every breath you took.

"me too."

after many minutes spent cluelessly setting up a station for your new gramophone, you sighed, letting out a breath you didn't know you were holding in.

"which one do you want to play first?" stepping away from the gramophone, abby stands next to you, arms broad and crossed over her chest. her brows knit together as she picks up one of the vinyls you chose. 'something stupid'. she hums.

"i can see why you chose it," she pauses, lifting the cover up to your face, comparing the two. she chuckles, taking the vinyl out of its protective covering. her jokes almost always targeted you, but they never failed to arise a chuckle or an eye roll from you.

"i'm going to pretend you didn't say that." you step closer, grabbing the handle that connected on the side. abby places the large vinyl onto the turntable, and places the needle onto the outer edge of the disc. it started to spin after you turned the handle three or four times.

all you could hear at first was prolonged static, but after a couple patient seconds the melody finally rang through the entire open marina.

your eyes set ablaze as this trophy began to speak to you, the soft instrumentals in the background echoed through the open halls and dock. you'd be surprised if the others weren't able to hear it.

abby visibly shares the same amount of curiosity.

then, a man and woman begin singing, and your faces immediately light up,

"woah," she blurts out, the vibrations from this vintage speaker danced around you, you could almost see it.

"it worked! it worked!" your smile only continues to grow as the melody rings through your ears. you lunge at abby and pull her into a tight embrace. you didn't have much hope in terms that it would work, considering it hasn't been in use since before the outbreak. you were just glad there was one more thing for everyone to look forward to now.

"i've.. never heard music like this." she says, the pure shock still prevalent on her features. her eyes were wide, but in the way that wasn't concerning to anyone. her lips curled just enough to see her teeth, and it's like a breath of fresh air, seeing her so relaxed and full of life. it wasn't often she could be herself.

since jackson, she hadn't had much to look forward to. the nightmares hadn’t stop, as much as she thought they would. it would still prolong her sleep, terrorising her in the dark of night until the rise of the new day. then again... it's like a burden had been relieved of her. maybe this could help get her mind off things. it was like she had more room to be herself. the half of her that was so full of rage and fright, wasn't as present anymore.

"i could get used to this" abby admits, hand on shoulder, eye to eye.

you nod, thoughts traveling to the back of your mind to focus on the now, on abby.

you both stare in awe at the gramophone, it sounds nothing short of magical. your head sways side to side in sync with the rhythm, it'd been so long since you'd heard music.

turning to abby, you notice she's stuck in thought, eyebrows crinkled like when she was deciding on a vinyl. your faces drops to a slight frown, wondering what passed her mind so suddenly.

as you were about to ask, she interrupts you,

"can i ask you a stupid question?"

"shoot."

she stands awfully close, nudging you in a playful manner.

"wanna dance?"

you chuckle, the sincerity in her voice bringing your arms to your stomach.

"you know how to dance anderson?" you question, genuinely curious. if she knew how to, there's no way you didn't already know, too.

"not at all." all of a sudden, she bends down with one arm behind her back and another in front of her, asking for your hand. you almost break down on the floor in hysterics at the sight, she definitely didn't look like a dancer.

her head lifts up to see you laughing at her, and she straightens up.

"if you don't know how to dance, just say that." as annoyed as she wanted to sound, the growing smile on her face proved otherwise.

"no, no, it's just-- okay."

"okay?"

"okay."

abby doesn't waste time, placing her hand on the right of your hip with her other on your shoulder. you can feel your chest buzz at the feeling as you reciprocate the gesture. with your arms placed atop her shoulders, you take note of how firm and broad they are, holding a steady grip on her as she begins to step in a square-like pattern.

"you seem to really like my shoulders." a rush of warmth instantly plagued your neck and face at the immediate observation.

"i don't want to trip over your two left feet." you retort, and she scoffs, muttering a sarcastic wow under her breath.

as you joked about, you swayed along to the rhythm of the song. neither of you knew how to dance, yet it felt so natural when she pulled you closer, your head resting between her chest and shoulder.

"i thought you didn't know how to dance." you speak just above a whisper.

her hand is steady on your hip, guiding you to follow her movements.

"i lied." she chuckles, her smile sweet as sugar. "manny taught me."

' i practice every day to find some clever lines to say to make the meaning come true '

dancing around in circles, you could feel abby's heart pumping through the thin fabric of her black tank top. it was calm, almost matching the tempo of the song.

' but then i think i'll wait until the evening gets late and i'm alone with you '

abby tugs on your waist, wanting you to inch closer as if there was room. her arms keep you upright and on beat. she was your rock, even if you were doing something as simple and sweet as this.

' the time is right, your perfume fills my head the stars get red, and, oh, the night's so blue '

you take a deep breath in, the subtle scent of pine surrounded you, mixed with an earthy smell. as you exhale, you could swear you felt abby do the same, her hand relaxing atop your shoulder.

' and then i go and spoil it all by saying somethin' stupid like, "i love you" '

you can feel a heat rise to your neck and the apples of your cheeks. your thumbs rub soft circles into the dome of her shoulders, and it catches her attention. you don't look up, but her gaze is focused on you.

the song starts to fade out, the words repeating,

' "I love you" "i love you" i love you i love you '

"interesting song choice," abby mutters, almost too close to your ear. the warmth of her breath sends shivers along your neck, hairs rising.

she doesn't pull back, even after the song fully fades out and the turntable comes to a complete stop. you both stand there, with each of her arms now wrapped around your waist.

"that was nice." she states rather bluntly, a shy smile evident in her tone.

"it was." you reply, reluctantly lifting your head to meet her eyes, they glint when you finally reach her gaze.

she lifts a hand off your waist to tuck a stray hair behind your ear, letting her fingers trail over your skin.

"you have good taste," her tone is almost sultry, inducing a relaxed feeling in your chest. she always made you feel comfortable, safe even. you loved that about her.

you stay silent, your eyes curiously wandering along her features. her freckles that danced across her cheeks and nose, her arched brows, and her divine eyes, you could stare at them 'till the end of time.

her face is mere centimetres from yours, unknowingly inching closer as you'd gawked at her unashamedly.

you press your face against hers, lips delicately meeting. she doesn't pull away, and neither do you. it was so sudden, but so natural.

her lips are cushions against yours, overlapping passionately, yet slow and deep.

"what's all that noise?" lev calls out from around the corner, and you both jump back, still entangled in an embrace.

as he spots the two of you, his brows crinkle, but he's more focused on where that other-worldly sound was emanating from.

"woah, what's that?" he cautiously takes a step towards the gramophone, afraid to touch it. it was 'old world' stuff after all.

you clear your throat. "that- that's a gramophone, it plays music." you answer, he turns to you again before analysing the music player deeper.

you let go of abby, and you immediately miss the warmth her body provided.

around the corner, mel and owen appear side by side with yara behind them.

"yara, come check this out!" he exclaims, and yara runs to him. they both discuss what the hell the unknown object is, the weird shape of the vinyl player only adding to their strange theories.

"seems like you two had lots of fun." mel comments, eyeing the deep red hues that painted your faces.

all you can do is nod, turning to abby who just smiles, grateful to be in your presence.

"yeah, we did." she wraps an arm around yours, pulling you to her side and failing miserably to make it look casual.

owen doesn't say anything, walking over to the gramophone to speak with the kids instead.

you felt belated as abby kept her firm arm around you, almost encapsulating your figure entirely. her sugary sweet smile returns, catching yours alongside.

you could get used to this.

[shewrites444]

fire [coriolanus snow x reader smut]

[Hello! It has been awhile. I wanted to switch it up and try out a fic on young Coriolanus Snow’s character from TBOSAS after hearing about the new Hunger Games movie! Please let me know if you enjoy his character. I also apologize if this story has some imperfections, I did not edit it.]

WC - 4.3k

SUMMARY - The reader is a prestigious pianist and composer for the Capitol. She finds herself in a mental, and physical, battle against her attraction to President Snow throughout his dictatorial rule and loveless marriage as months go on. Attempting to get under his skin through a rather bold encounter, she finds herself back to where she started as he reminds her of their similarities, but she holds more power above him than anticipated. 

WARNINGS - Cheating, angst, cursing, choking, fingering, detailed & unprotected sex. Coriolanus is a bit sexist and also doesn’t know how to shut the hell up, so fair warning on that. 

-

Coriolanus had spent the past few months focused on nothing but his political reputation, and the power he only continued to gain in the Capitol, along with the Districts. Well, it was more of a submission than anything, fear spread through Panem as his reign as President, or as many called him, a dictator, was unveiled. 

He had no focus on his chosen wife, Livia Cardew, knowing that she was solely a prop for visual acceptance, a showcase of a wife that he was able to find someone who supported him through his political career, and the most important time of the year, of course, The Hunger Games.

When the games were approaching, the Capitol organized several socials and meetings throughout the upcoming weeks in order to network Coriolanus with his political and social allies, the game-makers, the Academy students that were interested in working with Dr. Gaul and the rest of her associates, and any other connections that were essential to the duration of a successful season. 

I found it disgusting, and inhumane, just like those in the Districts, but I, just like everyone else who was ranked underneath President Snow, had to find ways to cautiously approach such a season of brutality. 

Serving the Capitol as a pianist and musical coordinator by trade, I found ways to avoid the Districts and remain in a fairly comfortable lifestyle as the years went on. I had been working mainly for Coriolanus’ wife, Livia, for her social events held with other women of the Capitol on weekends, typically. I had assumed Livia told Coriolanus of my talents, and the orchestra I would often accompany, so that’s when he had me perform before a meeting with several of his associates. That’s when it all began.

Was I just ashamed? Yes, but I was more disgusted with myself than anything. That was the best way to put it.

It was shameful, and quite out of character for me to be a mistress, for one, but it was worse to know the same man I often slept with was the reason for so many innocent and unforgiving deaths across Panem. How the hell was I supposed to get out of this entanglement, though? If I left, or even expressed that I was thinking about it, I’d be as good as dead. 

I hadn’t seen him in a few weeks, but when the buzz amongst the games began to pick up, I knew he’d be in my vicinity soon enough. Livia had asked me to perform for a social before the Reaping Ceremony, which I obviously obliged to. Something in me felt that she knew of my arrangement with her husband, but something else told me she didn’t even care. She had all the power in the world, and Coriolanus wouldn’t dare harm her; it would forever damage his reputation. She had nothing to lose. She knew I had everything to lose. 

“You were wonderful, as always.” Livia chimed, handing me a glass of wine as I walked onto the marble floor soon after my performance. I returned a gentle smile, sipping lightly from the clear glass before clearing my throat to speak up. I was used to being rather quiet, given my nature as a pianist. I spent most of my time practicing and playing in solitary, so I was not much of a talker, especially now that things had changed over the course of the past few months, but I kept my composure, and I remembered who I was conversing with. 

“Thank you, Mrs. Snow. I find it an honor you allow me to perform for such special occasions.” I say, my eyes scanning the room as I watch men and women of heavy rank socialize throughout the floor, some already dining, some already on their second drink of the night, maybe more.. 

Livia looked me up and down briefly, watching my nervous demeanor unwind. She watched me stand still, glancing around the chattery room, my fingertips lightly tapping my glass. A small smile wrinkled onto her lips. “Well, I will leave you be, Miss [Y/N], I’m sure you are quite tired.” She reached to gently hold my shoulder, sending a cold shudder across my bare skin. “Have a wonderful evening, alright?”

“Yes, of course, you as well, Mrs. Snow.” I watch her walk away, feeling as if I could finally breathe again. 

I felt faint, nerves stemming from Livia’s appearance sending me over the edge, and the usual guilt I felt only more demanding as seconds passed. I set my glass down before walking out the ballroom’s door, which led down a dim hallway stacked with offices, and a bathroom more towards the back. I had been here plenty of times before, so I knew a spot where I could cool off and freshen up for a few moments. 

Opening the bathroom door, I felt a hand press against the wall beside me, to stop me. I glanced up, his pale, slim fingers planted to the side of my head, making my face turn white. I slowly let go of the door, turning to face Coriolanus. He looked down at me, a sly look on his already smug expression, no shame in his blue eyes. It made my stomach turn.

“President Snow.” I said, my eyes averting to each side of the hallway, scanning the wide space to assure that no one was around, before looking back up to meet his gaze. “You startled me. I was just going to freshen up before heading back to the party.”

“Please, spare me the formality, [Y/N].” He grinned, taking his hand off the wall before moving it to my cheek, making my face heat up. “Come with me, hm?”

“Your wife is not even two doors down, Coriolanus.” I drip his name out in a cautious whisper, which he had given me permission for ages ago. He struck me as the type of man who’d prefer a formal reference, maybe even find attraction in it, but I suppose he’d rather something else from me. I didn’t question it. “And the rest of your business partners, might I add.”

Coriolanus laughed, almost mockingly, at my seriousness. “You think she is not aware of you and I, [Y/N]? She is not a fool.” He patted my flushed cheek before he grabbed my hand. “Now come with me.”

I didn’t argue further, just nodding silently before following him down the hallway. I recognized where he was leading me, just from a different direction. The Capitol was like a maze, at least the inside of it, but I had memorized much of it from Coriolanus, and my work. We head to his bedroom, the sound of my heels clicking against the glossed floor while he walked me further.

I hear him close the door, mentally preparing myself for what was to come. It’s not like I didn’t want him, because I did, it was more that I didn’t want the reprimands of being caught, or feeling so dirty for what I was doing. There was an underlying guilt each and every time I slept with him, or even as much as I spoke to him, no matter what the circumstances were. 

As the door locked, Coriolanus turned to walk towards me, before I took a step back, much to his surprise. He raised one of his light eyebrows, a confused, yet intrigued look on his face. I never denied him, and who’s to say that I was? I didn’t even know what I was doing, other than thinking out loud, which only made my blood run colder.

The tension in the room was tight, and could be cut from a string as thin as the threads that held what was under my gown together. I could hear myself breathing, and my thoughts racing to spit out of my shut mouth. My eyes lifted up to his own, and I stood straight, and firmly.

“Out of all the women in the Capitol, out of everyone you could have in the ways you have me, why did you choose to tangle me into your mess?” I ask, rather impressed with my own forwardness. “Why must it be me?”

Coriolanus shared a similar look as my own, but his expression curated itself into some sort of cheeky grin, almost as if he enjoyed my slight rebellion. He knew I didn’t take orders, so he never bothered ordering me around. He didn’t have to ask, he knew I liked it, and he knew I’d comply, and he also knew I felt guilty every time, but I never posed such a question, until now.

He tucked his hands into his slacks, stepping closer, his slim, tall build hovering before me.

“It is you because I find everything I prefer in you.” He answered flatly, following my questions. “My wife has no regard for anything but her own status, which I can admire, but she does not have any reason to achieve anything more. The women who seek to improve their status, say, by sleeping with me or attempting to, seek to achieve more than they ever will. Then there is you, who is firmly placed in between all of these women, who holds prestige, who holds respect, yet, in every way possible, feels that she is less deserving of it because she holds attraction to the one man she cannot have.”

His words frustrated me beyond my usual measure, and I couldn’t contain the pressure pent up in my chest, eagerly awaiting to push through my quivering lips. He angered me, and he made me feel lesser, when this entire time, he was the one who took out his frustrations on me, and he was the one who ran from every ounce of affection he was once offered, and threw it at me. It was always in the back of my head, yet I found myself in a delusion, one where I would never allow myself to see the truth, but it all came to me as he spoke. 

“You are the one who cannot have me. How could I make that anymore clear? After all this time, all these months of you thinking your usage was one-sided, how could you not see it, Coriolanus?” I loosened up my posture, and stepped forward, nearly closing the irritable gap that was between the two of us. “You are the one who finds me after my performances, you are the one who pursues me, time and time again. I comply, yes, but I am not the one who soughts after you.”

He blinked. I could read it as clear as day that he was taken aback by my words. A satisfying feeling burned in me, yet the tension geared towards the uncertainty of our conversation never left. I spoke up, and I was not pretty about it. What would he do now? Surely a pianist disappearing wasn’t common, but I wasn’t Capitol royalty, so it’s not like he couldn’t disregard me if he wanted to. Would he do that? No, I was too valuable to him in more ways than one. How worked up he got over this affair showed me that.

“Seems we both have our issues.” He hummed. Another foot stepped closer to me, the tip of his shoe nearly stepping on mine, but he knew that. He reached forward after pulling his hands out of his pockets, and cupped my cheeks with both of his cold, large hands. His thumbs pressed against my lips, and I could feel my lipstick brush against his fingers. “Yet neither of us have ended the arrangement between us. Why do you think that is?”

“Don’t make me answer that.” I shake my head, reaching my hands up to pull him off of me, and lightly push him away. “I will not engage in such a conversation.”

“You’re the one who started this conversation.” Coriolanus grabbed my wrists, yanking me forward. He leaned down to press his lips against my own, causing me to gasp, and attempt to fight it, but I couldn’t.

He knew I liked it, and he knew how to use it against me. I sunk into the feeling for a brief moment, before I pushed him off me, my hands planted against his dress shirt as I gripped the material, holding him in place while he looked down at me, his once slicked back curls falling forward, a few loose hairs against his forehead as he grinned, my lipstick against his pale lips. He tilted his head, his hands moving to grip my waist rather harshly, just enough to keep me still.

“Do I have to remind you how crucial this arrangement is to you? To make you answer my question, hm?” He held me, walking me closer to the opposite side of the room. Aggressively, he kissed me once more, flipping my body to face his vanity, while still keeping my face turned to his own.

He ran his hands down the side of my gown, bunching it up enough that he could push it underneath my chest to remain upright. “You claim to despise what happens between us so much, and you hate that you are what stands between my marriage, yet you cannot seem to walk out the door. Come on, [Y/N], you and I both know you are a bit afraid to fully defy me, but you don’t even try to, until now. But it’s all talk, you’ll never really break anything off.” He reached between my legs, which nearly trembled at his touch, as his fingers slipped into my underwear. 

“And you’re already wet.” Coriolanus mocked, looking at me in the mirror as he slowly slipped one of his fingers into me. He watched my mouth open, a pleased, and frankly, egotistical grin on his face, knowing he had gotten to that part of me so quickly. “Is this why you have not ended what continues on between us? Because no man can make you cum the way I do? Am I really so vital to you?”

“You are insufferable.” I gasp, closing my eyes as he began to work his fingers into me, the sounds of my pleasure much more relevant in his room than I’d prefer them to be. “There are many things you refuse to admit to me, too.”

“Exactly.” Coriolanus looked between my legs as I stood before him, the pressure in his pants brushing against the back of my gown. “We are two different people, yes, but we both have secrets that we strongly refuse to admit, yet we can read it on each other’s faces. You know I’m right. I see you more than anyone else, and you hate it. You hate that I can see you.”

“Then why do you treat this with such amusement?” I chime back, opening my eyes to glue them to what was occurring before me. I could feel his free hand move to begin sliding my underwear down. “Why do you mock me, when the scenario applies to yourself?”

“Because I have nothing to lose.” He returns, shooting me a glare as he drops my underwear to the floor as they pass my hips. “My wife is aware of my distaste for her, and for much of any affections. The Capitol will never question me because they know their lives, and their families, are at stake. No one will question me, [Y/N]. They have too much to lose.”

I feel him move his hand behind my back, tugging at the zipper that restrained him. He keeps his rhythm, and he keeps his eyes against my figure. He knew he had the upper hand, it would be impossible for me to overturn his rank, and his power, and nearly everything he had that I did not. I was constantly reminded of it, especially like this. 

“Then why entertain the idea of me holding any sort of power over you through our affections? Why bother administering mockery upon me, Coriolanus?” I hiss through clear annoyance, struggling to hide the pleasure that wouldn’t seem to brush away from my core. He wasn’t giving up any sort of competence. 

Coriolanus lightly pulled his fingers from me, grazing them against my inner thighs before turning me around, and holding them to his mouth. He licked his fingertips, causing my stomach to drop at the sight, while a smirk cracked onto his tinted lips. 

“I have never been with a woman who tastes as good as you.” The sound of his tongue swirling against his fingers made me weak, and the way that someone so manipulative, so cruel, was licking a part of me, felt wrong, yet it didn’t. It was a confusing battle with oneself. “You hold that power, if you must know.”

He pulled his fingers away from his lips, wiping his hand against my dress before tugging it out from under my covered chest, standing straight as he began to pull it off me, and I just let him. Fucking hell.

“You think I’d fuck a woman I didn’t hold any sort of value to? You think I would waste my time with mindless affairs filled with women whose sole purpose in life is to please me, and to please their husbands? The only pleasure they gain from me is validation, nothing more.” He moved my dress down my shoulders. “You want me to fuck you, [Y/N]. Not just any man of rank, me. It makes you sick, doesn’t it?”

“You fancy me just as much as you do anything else you do for yourself.” I feel him move my gown above my head, over my long, slicked ponytail. “You do this for yourself, no one else. You like that I feel such a way.”

He shook his head, dropping my dress on the floor beside my underwear. “Power and value are different. If I wanted to have power over a woman, I’d be fucking my wife, not you.”

My eyes widened at his words. What was his angle here? This argument was endless. “Then why do you act like you have so much power over me? You want to talk to me about value, yet you show none of it. You only exert power, and your ego, against me everytime I feel your touch. You fuck me like you own me, like you hold such a rule, yet you claim that I hold some sort of power. You baffle me.” 

He took my hands and moved them to his length, in which I nearly shivered upon touch, reminded of each and every time he came close to me, and how large he felt when he was inside me. I lightly stroked him soon after I spoke, watching his bottom lip slightly fall at my fingers. He began to unbutton his shirt.

“Am I supposed to make this easy for you?” He teased, sliding his shirt off his shoulders, now standing in nothing but his unzipped pair of pants and boxers that rested just above them. “Must all you women figure things out without assistance for once?”

“Oh, god,” I scoff, my eyes rolling off irritable instinct as I continued my actions against his stiffened cock. “You are-”

“Insufferable?” Coriolanus cued, raising his brows, his hands moving to guide me towards his bed, as we mutually climbed onto it. “I don’t imagine my cock is insufferable, at least, given your generous duration of touch.”

I groan, watching him lay as I motion my body on top of his. If I had some sort of power, as he seemed to suspiciously claim I do, surely I could show it? I glance at him, feeling his hands reach below to grab my ass, toying with the loose flesh as his instinct brought me above him. 

I don’t respond, rather slide on top of him in a swift motion, causing the both of us to moan rather loudly, nearly echoing across his lavish suite of a bedroom. I watched his eyes fall to my bare chest, before gliding down to the movement between us, as I began to move my body forward. 

“If you claim that I am of such value to you… and you give into submissions at times, then you’ll allow me to control you… hm?” I speak between heavy breaths, feeling his thick, restless cock bury between my thighs as I create a rhythm above him. 

“Like I said to you before, [Y/N], I’m not supposed to make it easy for you.” His eyes never left our bodies while he guided me down. “You’ll see.”

I lean down, his cock angling itself at a curve as I reach to slide my hands to his shoulders, gently kneading at his flesh before resting both palms against his pale neck, my nails digging into the back of it, sliding into his blonde locks. A grin tugs at my lips while I press them against his own, feeling his tongue slide into my mouth and muffle the moans I made with each stroke. 

I squeeze at his neck, my thumbs pressing against his adam’s apple while I ride his cock. Thrust after thrust, I could feel him twitch, knowing he was growing weaker and weaker as I went on. He liked the dominance, but he’d never admit it. Instead he’d toy with me, attempt to make me feel as if I had to work for his value, when I already had it. I had him, and I had all this time. I had nothing to lose. 

“What if it melts?” I ask vaguely, looking down at him amidst the loose hairs against my face. “What will you do then?”

Coriolanus released his hands from my ass, moving them higher to my chest, his thumbs toying with my hardened nipples as he held me up, but my hands remained on his throat. I could feel it move as he spoke. “What if what melts?” 

“Snow.” I breathe heavily at his stimulating touch, while I begin to pick up my speed between us. “What will you do if the snow melts?”

Coriolanus scoffed, pressing his thumbs down. “It won’t.”

I press down and lean down simultaneously, shaking my head as I laugh, the feeling of my physical position never leaving, only growing as I mocked him further. I knew how it felt now, to toy with the one who peaked your interest so high. No wonder he enjoyed this.

“If I hold such value, such power over you, Coriolanus, it’s bound to melt. Snow cannot be on top if something is to compromise it, hm? Must I remind you of what occurred the last time you allowed someone to hold power over you?”

I couldn’t believe I brought her up. Yes, I knew of Lucy Gray, just as many of us musicians did. I never knew her personally, but I was aware of what lengths Coriolanus went to erase her from existence for his political, social, and mental gain. Is that part of the reason I feared walking away, even if I wanted to? Yes. But I knew he wouldn’t kill me, or send me off. He’d have no one if not. 

“Shut the hell up.” He moved his hands to hold me by my face. “This is different.”

“In some ways, yes.” I feel his hands move my hair behind my ears, his eyes locked against mine. He was angry, but he was allowing me to speak further, so not angry enough. “In other ways, it is quite the same.”

“Damn you, woman. Experiencing quite the power trip, aren’t you? Why don’t you do so after we fuck?” He growled, one of his hands reaching past my face to grab the end of my ponytail, yanking it down to cause my head to rise up, my back arching in the process, gasping as he thrusts upward, sending volts through my stomach. 

Don’t lose control, [Y/N]. Don’t you dare let him fuck you into submission.

“If you think for just a second that this is not changing things for you, then you are a fool.” I spit, opening my eyes to stare down at him, fighting his grip against my ponytail. I feel his other hand move from my face to my jaw, holding my face down to face his own. “You can’t do this without me. You spend far too much time with a mistress to disregard her, and you fucking know it. That’s what makes you sick.”

All he could do was curse under his breath, his grip on my hair, and on my face, loosening. Was he admitting defeat? Was he finally showcasing some sort of disadvantage? 

I leaned down to pull him into a sloppy kiss, my tongue sliding into his mouth as he lightly pressed his own against mine, yet allowing me to hold the dominance. The feeling was strange but enjoyable, knowing that I was able to hold mental and physical assertion over such a man. 

I could feel him grunt underneath me, his body limp as I fucked his restlessly, until I could feel myself tighten against him, and his cock pump into me, lightly thrusting upwards to ride out the high that he pushed into me. I watched his face as I held his neck still, his eyes closed and his mouth agape while he came. His cheeks were flushed. I knew he felt defeated, and I knew in some way, he enjoyed it. It was a feeling he hadn’t felt in a long time. 

I slowly got off of him, feeling his cum lightly stick between my thighs while I motioned to lay aside him. My hands were warm from their grip, and I rested one against his cheek, turning him to face me. 

“Do you know what makes snow melt?” He asks through a horse tone, looking up to me. He knew I wouldn’t give him the answer he was looking for, so he watched me silently shake my head. He reached forward to hold my own cheek, pulling me down to his lips, but not for a kiss. He let me hover, before he spoke quietly, his hot breath against me. 

“Fire.”

[diamond-champagne]

6. I Hurt You

Paige Bueckers x Azzi Fudd

Warnings: None that I know of :)

Feed back is always welcome! Besties, thank you for the support <3

Shoutout to @makethemhoesmad for getting me through this chapter.

It takes Paige over an hour to clean up the broken glass. Her eyes blur with tears too often for her to make any real progress. She gets it done though; sighing as she drops the last of the paper towel and glass into the trash. The blonde settles back on the couch and begins to scroll through her social media when she gets a text.

Babe: How was your night, Ma?

The text brings a smile to Paige’s face as she remembers their interaction from earlier in the night.

Paige stands at the bar; waiting for the bartender. She’s happy to be celebrating with the team. She also feels looser tonight than she has in a while. Then again, that could be the three tequila shots making their way through her system. Paige is drumming her fingers against the bar when abruptly, a strong body is pressed against her back. Alarmed, the blonde girl turns around, ready to snap when she hears a deep voice say “Sorry, Ma. People don’t know how to say excuse me.” 

The voice stops Paige in her tracks as she gazes at the person before her. The man has a tall and muscat build. His caramel skin is accompanied by green eyes and a perfect smile. The icing on the cake is that the man’s right arm is covered in tattoos. He’s handsome, Paige thinks as she continues to check him out. She doesn’t know how long she’s been doing so when a deep chuckle pulls her back to reality. The blonde’s face turns red in embarrassment as she avoids eye contact. 

“No need to be embarrassed, Ma. A pretty girl like you can stare at me all day” the man says while taking a slight step away from the blonde. She feels her face get hot at the compliment.

“Bold of you to assume I was embarrassed,” Paige quips. “Maybe I was just upset that you bumped into me.” The man lets out another deep chuckle. “My bad, pretty. I promise I didn’t mean to.” He smiles at her. “It’s all good, babe.” Paige teases.

“Babe?” The man questions. “Well,” Paige starts, “You’ve called me everything but my name so I thought it was only fair.” The man nods in agreement before speaking again. “So what is your name, pretty?” He’s still smiling at her. 

“Paige, and yours?” 

“Cameron, but all my friends call me Cam”

“And we’re friends now?” Paige smirks.

“Yeah, Ma,” Cam answers, “Yeah, we are.” His smile is sincere and Paige begins to enjoy his company.

“Well, babe, who are you here with?” Paige asks. The nickname rolls off her tongue easily as she converses with the taller man. “I’m on the football team so I’m here with my teammates,” Cam says as he nods his head in the direction of the UConn football team. “What about you?”

“I’m on the basketball team, so I am also here with my teammates.” Paige answers. Cam nods in acknowledgement. He starts to respond but the volume in Ted’s increases drastically as they change the music playing, making it difficult for Paige to hear. The football player realizes and then proceeds to grab her waist to pull her closer to him. He leans down to talk in the basketball player's ear. “So Ma, can I get your number?” He asked. Paige braces her hands on his shoulder so she can talk in his ear “Yeah, give me your phone.” 

The two switch phones so that they can put in their respective phone numbers. Both athletes take selfies for their contact picture which consists of silly faces and peace signs before returning their phones. Cameron leans down one more time to talk in Paige’s ear “Be safe, Ma. I hope to see you soon.” Paige responds “Bye, babe.” before rejoining her friends at the table

It’s with a smile that Paige responds to this text.

Ma: It didn’t end too well but I had fun. 

Babe: Do you want to talk about it?

Ma: Not right now

Babe: What about over breakfast tomorrow?

Ma: Bet

-

That conversation is exactly how the athletes ended up getting breakfast at a small diner right off campus. They’re sitting in a booth laughing about a tik tok that they both found funny while the waitress arrives at the table with their food. The pair immediately begin to dig in before Cam changes the subject. 

“So Ma, what happened last night?”

Paige drops her fork and lets out a sigh at the thought of her fight with Azzi. The situation left her tired and frustrated but all she wanted was for someone to listen. So, Paige told Cam everything. She told him how they were best friends that often woke up together, how she was in love with Azzi and her feelings weren’t returned, how the younger girl had a girlfriend, and lastly, how they argued last night. By the end of her long and detailed explanation, Paige had a steady stream of tears rolling down her cheeks. Cam reached out to grab the blonde’s hand from across the table; running his thumb over the back of it soothingly.

“I’m sorry, Ma. You didn’t deserve that.” Cam says “But if it’s causing you this much pain, don’t  you think you should move on?” Paige shakes her head in agreement. “I know but I can’t because she’s still my best friend. She’s still half of me.”

“Your other half is killing all of you.”

“I’d rather have a piece of her than none of her, if I’m being honest.” Paige admits for the first time out loud. She sounds pathetic to her own ears. 

“Why, Ma?” Cam pushes. He can’t understand why the girl in front of him is so adamant on keeping this relationship especially when she knows she deserves better.

“I went through everything by myself before I met her. I wiped my own tears and faced all my fears by myself; but when I met Azzi, everything changed. We talked all day everyday. She was there for everything after that. All my highs and all my lows.” Paige lets out a tearful laugh. “I can’t go back to how things were before her. She’s too embedded in my life now. We’re best friends that spend holidays and vacations together, go to school together, and play the same sport. All I know is Azzi.” Paige finishes.

Cameron just nods his head in understanding before speaking. “What about your teammates? Surely you could talk to them?”

“I’m sure they have some inkling. It’s hard to not notice things when you spend so much time together. I wouldn’t tell them everything though. It’s easier to keep the peace if I don’t.” Paige answers honestly. She knows she confided in Nika about some things but she wouldn’t tell the team about everything. They’re already so messy.

“Sure, it’ll keep the peace, but whose would it keep?” Cam counters. Paige just shrugs in response. The football player can sense that the blonde doesn’t want to talk about this anymore so he redirects her attention to something less heavy.

“Are you going to eat those, Ma?” The green-eyed boy points to her chocolate chip pancakes. Paige lets out a laugh before moving her arm to guard her plate of food. “Yes, babe, I’m going to eat these.” She teases.

The heaviness of the conversation dissipated from the air. The two continue their meal in laughter while getting to know each other. In the end, Paige feels like she’s made a new friend. 

Before either one could realize it, it’s almost time for the two to part ways. They’re sitting in the football player’s car outside of Paige’s apartment talking before they finally depart. The only other noise filling the car besides their voices, is the rain hitting the window.

“Listen Ma, call me if you need anything.”

“We just met yesterday, why would I call you?” Paige asks with a smile on her face.

“Because we’re friends and friends call each other.” Cam counters. 

“And friends call each other Ma and Babe, too?” Paige teases. The nicknames are fun to her.

“We do,” The football player confirms before continuing. “I’m Babe and you’re Ma and we talk to each other.

The basketball player shakes her head before repeating the words sincerely. “I’m Ma and you’re babe, and we talk to each other.”

Paige and Cam share a hug before she gets ready to leave the car. Despite the pair being in front of Paige’s door, the football player insists that she take his jacket so that she doesn’t get wet. It's a small gesture but it brightens Paige’s day to know she’s being considered. 

Later, as Paige thinks about the day, she’s happy to know that she has another person in her corner.

She couldn’t have Azzi but maybe she wouldn’t be alone either.

-

Azzi woke up that morning feeling terrible. The booze creates a deep, sinking ache in her head while the guilt does the same thing to her heart. The curly-haired girl lets out a groan and attempts to sit up in her bed. It’s a weak effort but it’s all Azzi can manage right now. Someone must be playing a cruel joke on her though because there’s a soft knock on her front door. Azzi struggles to get out of bed but when she opens the door, she’s met with Carol who just happens to have water and headache medicine.

The brown-eyed girl welcomes her friend into her apartment with the memories of last night still replaying in her head. While Azzi and Carol are very close, the brown-eyed girl knows that this will be a tense conversation.

The girls wordlessly settle into the living room. Carol watches as her friend takes the medicine given while she chugs half of her water before speaking.

“You’re being unfair” Caroline states.

“I know”

“You need to apologize.”

“I did.” Azzi sighs before continuing. “She doesn’t want anything to do with me.”

“Would you?” Caroline asks. The question shocks Azzi.

“Excuse me?” she exclaims slightly offended.

“Think about it,” Caroline starts, “You treated her like a girlfriend before ghosting her when you actually got a girlfriend. You get jealous when she’s with someone else but she asked you if you had feelings for her and you walked away. Plus, you embarrassed her at the bar yesterday.” Caroline finishes bluntly. It’s the truth and she knows Azzi needs to hear it.

“I was jealous last night-” Caroline cuts her off. Azzi is getting very tired of people doing that.

“You don't get to be jealous. Not this time.”

“I know.”

“Do you love her? It’s a fair question but the brown-eyed girl isn’t quite sure of the answer. “I don’t know.”

“Paige deserves to be with someone who knows. If you can’t give her that, then she should be able to find someone who can.”

“What if I do love her?” Azzi asks. 

“Then you fight for her.” Carol answers.

“And if I don’t?” Azzi counters.

“Then you watch her get the love that she deserves from someone else.”

“I don’t want to see her with anyone else,” Azzi starts. “I know it’s selfish but I don’t.”

Caroline sighs in response. She doesn’t understand how her teammate can’t see what’s in front of her.

“You’re being unfair.” Caroline repeats.

“I know.”

“You need to apologize.”

“I know.”

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[m1ssunderstanding]

Get Back Rewatch 55 Years On: Day 18

Staring John Lennon, as that kid I should’ve been nicer to in first grade who always smelled like PB&J and was never to be seen without his pokemon cards

The dancing is really too cute. They’re just absolutely giddy. Making each other laugh AND an excuse to touch? John and Paul’s heaven. 

John saying he was too excited after yesterday to go to bed. Like a fucking kid on christmas.

Everybody is serving today. While the candy-land suit is fun, I actually just love that vivid purple so much that I think it’s better without the coat over it. Billy looks extremely suave and classy.  And those red polka-dots on Ringo. Red suits him, and I think with his very frank, masculine aspect, he looks so beautiful and bold in feminine fits. Paul and John are both just wearing what they wore yesterday. Yeah. But John is still a cutie, and Paul, well, you all know.

The advice chain about finishing a song while you’re working on. Paul → John → George

Paul honestly does a great job being supportive of George and his work. Coming over and grooving with him, then hopping on drums then guitar (right-handed, may I add). Just to give George musical atmosphere to flesh out his song and start thinking of arrangement ideas, I assume. Then letting him bounce ideas around. And the whole time being overly-enthusiastic to build George up. Look how happy George is with the love and attention. 

John helping move some equipment in. We love a man who sometimes doesn’t think he’s too good for manual labor. 

Yes, clean that homeless man’s palm sweat off your instrument. Probably smart. 

TFW you made Paul McCartney jealous of your musical abilities. 

John really knew so well when to be his little impish self and when to be hard and intimidating. Exhibit A, going from, “Can we have our microphones, oh, mister, can we please?” to “And get one for Billy too.” In a matter of seconds.

George Martin stepping in when they’re all getting panicky about the sound and they need an authority figure to reassure them in ways that someone like Glyn Johns never could. Just, perfectly cool and collected, puts everything right as they’re all shouting at him like school children who’ve just had a terrible time in PE. 

“Believe me, when I tell you.” “Oh, I do.” Oh, good. He did put it in. That’s nice. Right, and this is the moment Yoko decides to tell John her divorce has come through and pull him in for a big smooch. Honestly, it just shows how threatened she feels by Paul. Nevermind her whole, “good thing Paul isn’t a girl or he would have been a great threat,” quote. Clearly, he just is a threat regardless of sex.

And then John, “I’m freeeee.” At Paul. Honestly, the amount of things they direct specifically and aggressively at each other that should’ve just been general statements if there wasn’t some weird thing between them. It’s really something. Normally, you’d announce something like that to the whole room. But it seems John specifically wants to impress upon Paul that he and Yoko could get married right now if they wanted to. I mean, it’s a little difficult to make the point, because John and Paul almost aways seem to be talking only to each other. But through the whole discussion of Yoko’s divorce, John does not take his eyes off of Paul. 

Oh my gosh, Ivan Vaughn is here? How many emotional support boyfriends does Paul need to make up for John having Yoko? Glyn, Linda, George Martin, Dennis, Robert Fraser, and now Ivan? Fuck’s sake, Yoko, you’re a powerful woman.   

Paul’s Strawberry Fields piano. Let me be as vulnerable and broken as possible in my singing, since I can’t show you any other way that you’re killing me. Do you remember this song? That you wrote when we were at the height of our partnership only two years ago? How happy we were then? How beautiful the world seemed for that one brief moment? And John can’t look at him, because, yes he fucking remembers and yes he knows he’s hurting Paul. But for whatever reason, (my theory is he wanted something more Paul couldn’t give him. What that was and whether it was ever specifically vocalized I don't have a guess) going back to that time would be more painful to John than this has been.  

So they’ve been goofing off and Paul gives this little speech to get them back on task. “Alright Chawn Love. I’ve gotta call order, John, now, valuable time, here, son. Cool down, son.” But John’s response, “Don’t let me down, babe” completely switches Paul’s gears. He now thinks it’s important enough to get in this little snatch of a *meaningful* cover, “Take these Chains from my Heart,” reversing the course of productivity he’d got them on and ignoring the fact that they were about to do a take on two-shilling-a-foot tape. My interpretation of this moment is a bit tin-hatish and long, but suffice it to say, John is not happy with the message.

Everyone convincing Paul to do another take of his song is surprising, considering everything we always hear about how Paul was a tyrant task-master who just forced everyone to keep doing his lame muzak over and over when they all clearly hated it. Mal, “You can always go back to it.” Paul, “Do you want your head kicked in?” John, “We’ll never get a chance to do it again.” Paul, “Okay, honey bunch. Let’s hit it one time, tutti-frutti.” 

Yoko watching Paul check out her boyfriend’s ass. Classic. Also the fact that she literally copied his outfit? I get so much second-hand embarrassment for her, and it’s not when she’s being a weirdo and a statement-maker. It’s the having to physically stick the gum you were offering your boyfriend into this hand because he won’t take his eyes off his boyfriend for two seconds to look at you. 

Everyone laughing at Perfect Paul being out of tune is so funny to me. Like when the nerd finally gets a question wrong and the whole class is all “ooooohhhh!”

Ringo having a grand old time on the drums. I love that he just knew that’s what he wanted to do from such a young age and he never wanted to do anything else. And why would he? He’s a genius at it.

Paul. “John’s got something at 1:30 and so have I.” Smirk emoji. Side-eye emoji. George is with me. “Yeah we've got something too. I’ll do Ringo at 1:30.” I'm dead.

This moment right here hurts me. Paul’s enjoying a nice cuddle with Ringo until he remembers the camera. You’re not going to get in trouble for having your friend’s arm around your shoulders, Paul. Why are you like this? 

[shiratamahatsumiyo]

Mira Kim with Yor Forger reader

Dengue fever's gone now.

• You guys met through her friends. She noticed how aloof and shy you are when interacting with others and assumed that you felt uncomfortable, so she always makes sure to talk to you in a calm way unlike Zoe, who constantly talks and changes topics that you aren't familiar of or too slow catching up on.

• During lunchtime in the cafeteria, they're just talking about about homework, guys they have a crush on, social media shit. Until they brought up the subject of appearances...

Millie: "Thank god lunchtime started before that creepy teacher said something. He gave me weird stares this morning."

Sharon: "That's because you insisted on wearing that short skirt."

Millie: "I can't help it! If it makes my boyfriend happy!"

Zoe: "Ooh, so your boyfriend is into those kind of things~"

Mira: "Girls, stop that. We're in front of the table! People are trying to eat here."

Camilla: "Calm down, Mira. We're just talking about what we like to wear. Besides, style is important for attending the Fashion Department. Oh, that reminds me... What kind of style are you into, Yor?"

Yor: "Huh? Umm, not much. But I guess proper long-skirt dresses with darker colors?"

Zoe: "Whaaat? Are you like, into goth-like style? That's unexpected of you, Yor~"

Millie: "Zoe's right! You should show off your legs more."

Mira: "Millie! Zoe!"

Sharon: "That's pretty inappropriate, don't you think?"

Camilla: "That's okay. I mean, Yor certainly doesn't care about appearances. That's incredibly bold of her. Leave her on that topic, it's her choice."

Millie: "Shame~ She has a nice face and body, yet she she's not proud of it."

Zoe: "Yeah! I'm sure that guys will like her more if she--"

Mira: "You guys stop! You're making her uncomfortable..."

Yor: "No. It's alright, Miss Kim, I'm fine..."

• After lunchtime, you immediately make a beeline straight to your classroom but Mira stops you before she enters her classroom...

Mira: "Hey... I'm sorry the girls are this way. I already told them off that it's a bad impression on you since you are a transferee. I'm so sorry! I hope you'll give them another chance?"

Yor: "O-Oh!... Of course, Miss Kim."

Mira: "Call me Mira. Good luck in your department!"

Yor: "Of course, Mira. I'll do my best!"

• You two became friends fast. She introduced you to Zack but he's more annoyed than pleased since you've been stealing Mira's attention away from him. Mira took notice of Zack's hostility towards you and scolded him. She decided to plan a hang out for the three of you at a café near the school. Unfortunately, one of Zack's enemies overheard the conversation.

• You've never been in a trendy café before, or any type of restaurant in Seoul. Only preferring to shop and make food in your house. You three managed to reserve a table. As you sat down next to Mira, she began noticing how fidgety you are and searched inside her bag if she brought earphones for you to listen to and ignore the packed establishment.

Mira: "Hmmm... let's see if I brought earphones..."

Yor: "O-Oh! It's alright, Miss Kim-- I mean, Mira... um, look! Zack's coming here--"

• As soon as you see Zack coming with a tray of food and drinks, a hooded stranger with a face mask bumped into him--

Zack: "HEY, WATCH WHERE YOU'RE GOING ASSHOLE! YOU ALMOST SPILLED MY DRINKS!"

???: "Fuck you, man."

Zack: "WHY YOU LITTLE PIECE OF--"

• Zack was about to throw the first punch when he remembered his promise to Mira. So he restrained himself and returned to your table. Mira was too distracted because she was looking up her music playlist on her phone while talking to you. You, on the other hand, witnessed everything.

Zack: "Alright, food's here."

Mira: "Yay! Thanks, Zack. Let's dig in, Yor."

Yor: "W-W-WAIT!"

• You interrupted before Zack takes a sip from his coffee. You try to find an excuse as Zack gives you an impatient stare.

Yor: "We... must pray first!"

Zack: "...Are you serious--"

Mira: "You're right, let's pray!"

Zack: "Okay."

• While they close their eyes and kept praying, you quickly snatched Zack's coffee and replace it with yours. You placed his coffee near you. That hooded stranger spiked his coffee when he bumped into Zack and he didn't notice--

Mira: "Amen."

Zack: "Amen."

Yor: "A-amen."

• You made an excuse of going to the bathroom while hiding the spiked coffee behind you. You poured the drink into the toilet bowl and flushed the evidence. You made sure to kill the stranger later-- NO! no, control your bloodlust! Your friends are here for goodness sake! You came back to the table and continued eating.

• The afternoon went without a hitch. Just a feeling that someone is watching you. So when Mira offered you to stroll through the park (much to Zack's dismay), you politely declined, making up an excuse of going home early for an errand (much to Zack's delight). You bowed to them goodbye at the café's exit.

• You see the hooded stranger started to follow the couple and immediately dragged him into the alleyway.

???: "HEY! WHAT THE HELL'S YOUR PROBLEM?!"

Yor: "I'm sorry but I mustn't let you leave..."

???: "GET THE FUCK AWAY FROM ME BITCH-- ACK!!!

YOR JABS THEIR NECK

• The stranger fell unconscious to the ground. You search the strangers pockets and found a packet of pills. From the looks of it, emetics. You waited until it became dark, dragged the body to a nearby police station and left a note.

• Soon, news reached the school that a student is arrested for possession of illegal drugs. Zack was surprised that the arrested student is actually one of his enemies and he loudly express his gladness that he won't be seeing the retard's face for a while. Mira smacked him on the head for that.

[serialkilluh1996]

✆𝐌𝐄𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐅𝐄𝐇𝐋𝐄𝐑✆

Older-Crush-König x Younger-female-reader pt. 2

König confesses something, albeit a result of his inebriated state of mind.

Maybe he doesn't hate you as much as he thinks.

Warnings: reader has specifically the personality i wrote, use of ☆☆☆ in place of reader's name, age gap (14 years), König is kinda an ass, slight angst, alcohol, fluff, contact me if I need to add more.

Proshippers, Comshippers DNI

² 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍

It definitely wasn't the most comfortable date. You and König, side by side at the bar of some honky tonk restaurant where forty year old men resided for beer and rock songs.

It wasn't the location that bothered you. Well lit, great music, and wonderful service. What bothered you was König, elbows leaned against the counter as he peered into the abyss, and Avery, scrolling through his phone as Hörangi ordered some light alcohol.

No one was even talking. It was awkward, overwhelming, uncomfortable. You already regretted asking him. You silently scolded yourself for this. It's not like you were expecting some grand behavior. He was just a grumpy old man anyway. Even alone, he didn't do much. But he never treated his other friends like this. Tsk, bold of you to even assume he considered you a friend.

He probably only took you out of pity, if that. There's always the chance that he took you to stop you from begging. Like giving a crying bratty child some ice cream to shut the fuck up.

It made you frown at the thought. That you were so annoying, he'd only brought you out to keep you quiet. With little ease, you gander his gaze, seeing he hadn't moved an inch.

"..you're quiet." You mumble out. "You should be too." He scolds, making you frown. He looks over to see the firey look in your eyes, all bright and energetic, yet so negative. It was fascinating. Gorgeous. He turned away, grunting at the sight that made him blush. "The point of a date is to talk." You explain to him.

"This isn't a date, ☆☆☆. I'm not even dressed for a date. I'm dressed to fight." He returns with a scoff, pointing out how almost everyone else in the bar stared him and your friends down due to their heavy uniforms. You fold your arms, subtly leaning against him.

"For Christ's sake, give me some space." He fusses, and you huff, pulling away. You were sick of this. Sick of the disrespect. You hopped down from your tall chair, storming out of the restaurant with your dress shoes clicking.

"☆☆☆, wait!" Avery calls out, König placing a hand on his chest. "Let her leave. Please, just let her leave." He begged, the desperation and exhaustion in his voice clearer than his English.

"What's with you, man? Why do you tease her so much?" Avery tilts his head. "I'm not teasing anyone, damn it. She's just so fucking annoying sometimes." He clasps his hands together, sighing heavily.

"I've already told her so many times. She doesn't need me. She needs someone her own age." "She loves you." Avery adds. "She's too young to know what love is. Love isn't just that feeling of your body heating and tingling every time you see someone." He corrects Avery. Truth be told, he had a certain heated tingle when he saw you, but he always deemed it to be the mere sight of you causing him physical turmoil.

"You need to loosen up, König. Get a drink." Hörangi leans past Avery, a stupid smile on his face. "No..." König fanned him away. "Drink. Drink. Drink." Avery and Hörangi chanted. "What the hell are you two doing?" "Drink. Drink. Drink. Drink." They clap their hands with repetition.

"You're insane." He turns away. "Drink. Drink. Drink. Drink. Drink." He's shocked to find the bartender chanting with them. "Don't feed into their antics," he frowns, "I won't." He covers his forehead, already stressed about you. Drink. Drink. Drink. Drink. God, when will it stop?

"Fine!" He rolls his eyes as the bartender hands him a bottle. König pops it open, earning a cheer from Hörangi and Avery. He takes a big swallow, slamming the bottle down. The shit was strong, hot, like liquid fire.

"Nuh uh! You gotta finish the whooole bootttleee" Hörangi teases, already drunk by this point. "Hörangi..." he groans. "Come on, it'll get everything off your mind." König huffs at his words, swallowing the rest of the bottle. The idea of getting stress out of his system was quite tempting.

He wished it had ended there, but no, he naively let it go much further, now guzzling down his third bottle. He'd drank so much they practically forced the three to leave, Avery being a sort of babysitter for König and Hörangi to ensure they made it home safely.

He really was the big brother type, but not just for you. For anyone who needed it. König continues to sip as he sits in the passenger seat of Avery's grey hummer.

The more he sips, the worse he feels about letting you walk out of the bar, alone, at night. You were annoying, but the streets were dangerous, and his peace wasn't worth your life.

"Averehh...." he burps, his name coming out slurred."Yeah?" "Dont take...me home. Take me to ☆☆☆." He looks out the window, eyeing down the woman that passed alone. God, now he was really worried. "But–" "That is an order." "....yes, sir." Avery whips his truck around the street. "...s-s-slow down, man." Horangi grips the back of König's seat, clearly carsick and dizzy.

"You guys really drank too much." "Nah, he's just being a pansy. We'll be fine.." König fans his hand dismissively, Hörangi smacking his head on the back of the seat as Avery slams on breaks in front of your house.

"Learn to drive, why don't you? You'll give the man a concussion. Give em some bread, a cold coke, and get him to bed. I don't wanna hear him bitching about a hangover tomorrow." König orders as he opens the door.

He cautiously stands, trying not to lose his balance with his massive weight. He was well over 200 pounds and that would've caused the ground to quake had he let himself go.

"h....have a good night then.." Avery scratches his head.

You storm to the door in irritation, aggravated by the loud unnecessary banging on the other side. Who the hell could be knocking? You snatch the door open to see König, still in uniform, looking like the damn tactical grim reaper.

"...the hell do you want?" You ask him. "It's starting to rain." He answers. You raise an eyebrow at him stating the obvious.

"Okay??" "You shouldn't have run off." He forces his way in, closing the door behind him. "It's dangerous out here and you could've died, or worse." He dusts his arms. "So?" Your attitude was driving him over the edge. He couldn't stand that look on your face when you tried to act all tough. He could see how genuinely upset you were by what happened earlier. Those humped brows, those tightened lips.

How you were just barely able to hide the frustration and sadness. It was too much for him. He felt hot, antsy.

It made him feel warm. Jittery. Like an electric wave was running through him. "...Liebling, baby." He whispers. "...tell me why you're so upset." You turn away, but he snatches your chin. He could feel the alcohol settle in his system. He wasn't himself at the moment. He could barely even tell where was, but he knew he was with you, and strangely, he liked that. A lot. He liked the pajama set too. It was your favorite color, all silky with lace trims.

"...you look...comfy...its cute." He gushed, confusing you. Why was he acting like this? To tease you? You winced. Why was he doing this? To hurt you more? "Don't be so sad," König looked down at your tiny figure. Regardless of your own size, you were still so much smaller than him.

Like a midget. Most people, even his subordinates, were midgets compared to him, but you looked absolutely adorable.

"What do you want?" You ask him, his vision blurry and overlapping. Your voice is small, tired, echoing through his brain. It is pretty late, no earlier than 11 by now. Your scent was strong, the alcohol heightening his sense of smell. "...I want to make you feel better." He grabs your shoulder. You smelled sooo good to him. Your shoulder felt nice in his palm. The sensations were overwhelming.

You look in his eyes. Your gaze is tense, calculated, alert, vigilant. Searching for a sign that he was going to hurt your feelings again. His gaze was heavy, focused, elevated, soft. Searching for a sign that you wanted him. "Just tell me the truth." You press.

"... I'm not completely without a heart. I...have feelings.... heavy feelings... und...I feel them most when I'm with you. I've been through a lot. I've been in more life threatening situations than I can count, und yet, I remain unbothered. Not.. phased by the trials of my job or...or my morality. It made life easy to bare, tasks easier to complete, because I never worried about right or wrong or safety risks. I couldn't. I didn't have it in me. I was no more than a...a machine.

"...The truth is, ☆☆☆,... I'm ashamed." He walks straight past you, plopping down on the couch. Your face contorts with confusion, walking over to him.

But you, you make me feel alive. You make me feel heavy things I didn't require, und it stresses me. You're just some girl. You think you're grown because you're legal, but the legal system cannot define the inside of your head. Deep down, you're just a little girl." You breath heavily at his words, not sure if you should respond yet.

"You're immature, ☆☆☆. You're bratty, emotional, und you lack self control. Storming out of the bar was a stupid and childish move that could've put you somewhere you really don't wanna be, und I would've never forgiven myself if someone had...had harmed you. I dont think you understand that." He leans back, spreading his legs. The room is getting much warmer.

"You think I don't love you because I won't date you. But I do love you. Und I'm worried about you, and everytime you don't get your way, you do something reckless and put yourself in danger. My heart can't handle all these scares. I can barely handle knowing that I want you..."

You didn't have a response. There was really nothing to say. "Why did you come here..." you eye him down.

"...I thought it was to check on you, but... I think it's because I miss you, und....I wanted to talk to you..." He leans forward, grabbing your legs. He instantly yanks you down onto his lap. "What I'm trying to say is,....it's my mistake that you feel this way. I'm older, I should've known better. I shouldn't have waited so long to confess." He holds you close. Minutes pass without a word.

This was... nice. Not what you expected, but it was comfortable. His strong heavy breathing felt like a content cat's purr. You felt your eyes getting heavy, your nerves relaxing, the smell of whiskey. The perfect combination needed to rest, proven by König's snoring and your silent drift into unconsciousness.

'Maybe he'll elaborate further tomorrow' was your last coherent thought before dozing off.

You can support me by liking, commenting, reblogging, and/or cashapping me @fundsbrownie. Donations are optional, but much appreciated. Have fun! And remember, take care of yourself.

[kanos]

WIP // LAST LINE // MUSIC MONDAY

all in one bc i'm so so behind but i was tagged by @imogenkol @ruvviks, @g0dspeeed @tommyarashikage (i think that was everyone im sorry) to post wips and last lines of wips and idk what music monday is but like lets goooo

there's a lot in this so i'm so sorry lmao its been awhile since i've posted a wip or even finished writing a fic wow

some ronan x ellis i started writing on the plane a month ago

“Did you find it?” He called from the kitchen.  She hadn’t, for her attention was caught by something else. Underneath a stack of books was a wanted poster with a crude drawing and her name in bold letters - her name she knew, but the rest of the words on the page was unreadable. The eyes were too dark, the scars more angry and grotesque, and the hair was short. It was clear this was the work of someone who hadn't seen her in person but only heard the frightened words of bystanders who caught sight of her. Word of her infamy wouldn’t have reached as far as the small town of Faith and how he had come by a poster of her was unclear. Ellis holds the paper steady in her hands, eyeing the curve of the other woman's smile before turning around and heading back for the kitchen.  Ronan looks up and his curiosity falters as their eyes met. “Ms. Cooper?” She drops the poster in front of him and pins it to the table with her knife, the blade through the caricature's throat. With the other hand she grabs the front of his shirt and yanks him closer. “Where did you get this?” A quick glance to the paper and back. He holds his hands up and attempts to calm her rage down. “I can explain, but you have to let me go.” “I don’t think so. You can talk just fine like this.”

uuuuh rian / maxi / ghost anyone?

"Those two seem to be getting close lately." "Who is?" Ghost questions with clear disinterest, not even glancing towards his friend. A soft hum is his answer before any verbal response. He was hesitating. "Sinclair and Brennan." His gaze flickers to his friend and then follows the direction he is looking to find the two in question standing beside each other. The Irishman has his arm draped over the woman's shoulders, leaning down close. Maxine has the faintest hint of a smile on her lips but she doesn't shrug the man off. Rian's hand brushes over hers as he takes the knife she held and flips it around. Ghost feels his hand twitch and he's thankful for his mask to hide what he could only assume would be the expression of annoyance. "So? That's good she's getting along with someone." "Is it?" Soap teases, shrugging as he stands from his seat. "Then I better do the same - what if they get married? Then he'll be family."

LAST LINE(s)

"For fucks sake, Theo. How many people are you sleeping with? Next, you're going to tell me you're fucking one of the Seeds, huh?" Nathaniel can't conceal his anger - no, not his anger, but frustration for having such a reckless niece. Theo clicks her tongue and crosses her arms over her chest. "Really don't think this is something I should be discussing with my uncle." A stifling moment of silence doesn't have time to settle when Nathaniel speaks again. "You're not going to deny fucking one of the Seeds?"

and lastly my music monday contribution, enjoy this

tagging everyone again i'm sorry @strangefable @anoramactir @firstaidspray @pitchmoss @pavus @florbelles @carrionsflower @thedeadthree @roberthouse69 @carlosoliveiraa @shellibisshe @statichvm @risingsh0t @hollytanaka @confidentandgood @leviiackrman @bigbywlf @samuelroukin @cryptcombat @beemot @tekehu @evilvvithin @red-nightskies @pheedraws

[taglist opt in]

i apologize that this is writing and not everyone wanted to be tagged in writing but if you have any wips or just want to do the music thing, that's fine to!!

[chaosfairy18]

perchance some binch (buttons + finch) drabble??? they're my sillies and i love them so dearly /nfta

@finchesslingshott

First of all Hello!

I do have to say I don't really do much livesies/stage musical stuff (sorry) nor have I ever really done much thinking on Finch or Buttons even as individual characters nor as a ship (I prefer Redfinch) but since you've been so kind to send me an ask I tried my best. I really only have Hotshot as a recurring character in my writing and even then she is very different from canon Hotshot.

Buttons is Tadhg McCarthy (his canon name in UKsies) and he got the name because he 'has his buttons' (being smart) but I still made him sew. (Thanks to Nox for the UKsies infos <3)

Finch isn't even here that much but I write him mostly like my dear friend @clevereverest makes me think of him, I love her Redfinch writing

Mostly this is actually Buttons character study a bit and his friendship with another pickpocket who sews: Swifty. Because I am 99% 92sies focused and I needed to at least have one character I already know how to write.

Now enjoy: (750 words)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Buttons wasn’t sure what to do with Finch always having some rip in his clothes. Naturally he’d help him, but he wouldn’t be happy about it. For most people he’d ask for a fee for patching their things up – if they didn’t want that they could go to someone else – but with Finch he regrettably couldn’t do that as they were close.

Didn’t mean he had to be happy about not getting a bit more money.

Admittedly he had gotten more than enough today by relieving some people of their change.

In the bunkroom – where his sewing kit was – there was only one other newsie, Swifty, apparently doing the same thing. They got along well – thief’s codex and all that – so he sat on the bunk across from him to do his own stitching. “Hey Swifts.”

“Buttons.” Swifty grinned his usual lopsided grin. “Finch again?”

Buttons groaned, looking at the ceiling. “Idiot tears his thin’s every day. Shirts, pants, hat. Last week t’was his socks.” Of course he knew partly how it happened, Finch climbed up some tree and the branches nicked his clothes, he fell down and scraped his knees, he got in fights and teared something else.

“You’d earn a fortune if ya actually took his money.” As much as his tone was teasing, Buttons had a feeling Swifty was thinking something more than what should be going on.

“Can’t rob ‘im blind like that.”, he just said dismissively, getting out his scissors and thread.

“Mhm.”

“What’re you doin’ anyways? One of the littles ripped somethin’?” The kids always tumbled around and Swifty was close to both Flipper and Tumbler – mostly through them being close to Skittery and Bumlets, who were his best friends – and he’d also do a lot for Boots or Snipeshooter, not to mention Splasher. Though Splasher would have come to Buttons for sure.

Swifty held the shirt he was doing something on closer to Buttons, showing a little cat on the hem of it, embroidered in black. “I’m puttin’ little cats on all of Skittery’s clothes to see when he notices. I’m runnin’ out of clothes actually.”

“Bold of you to assume he’s lookin’ at his clothes when he puts them on.”

“It’s still fun. Tumbler loves it, says Skitts is like a cat anyways.”

They talked a bit more, also about what they had stolen the last few days, laughing about some of the close escapes they’d had or reactions they got after stealing various things. Swifty even managed to get a whole dollar, not even wanting to show it, already having it stocked away somewhere. Not that Buttons would have stolen it from him… probably. It would have gotten him such good clothes and sewing equipment though.

It was tempting, but thief’s honour kept him from actually doing it.

A bit later Finch came in, just as Buttons was almost finished, looking eager to get his vest back. “You done yet?”

“Almost.”, he just said dismissively, Swifty snickering from his bunk.

“Let the man work. With how much you’re givin’ him one could think you’re doin’ it on purpose.” Before Finch could reply to that, Swifty had jumped up, shoved the newly embroidered shirt in Skittery’s drawer and quietly disappeared down the stairs, steps light as always.

Finch’s eyes widened a bit, and he looked apologetic. “I promise I ain’t doin’ it on purpose, Tadhg. Just happens.”

“Yeah yeah. You’re just a clumsy bird.” Jumping up, cutting off the last thread, he held out the vest, newly patched, almost looking like new. Or at least the same as before. “There you go. Don’t go and rip it open again, if you keep givin’ me that much business I will have you pay for it. Runnin’ out of thread with all this.”

“I’m sure you won’t lose your buttons though.”, Finch laughed, referring to how Buttons got his nickname, from having all his wits with him. Having his buttons in order, so to speak. It was one of the better nicknames anyhow, as it also fit with sewing.

Finch slipped into the vest and grinned, leaning forward and kissing Buttons’ cheek. “Thanks again, really. I’ll get you some thread or cloth or somethin’. Promise.”

He rolled his eyes. “Sure. Just don’t keep making people suspicious with all this. They’s bound to notice I treat you special.”

“Not that they’re wrong.”

“Finch.”

“Yeah, yeah.” He pecked his lips. “See you later.”

Buttons got to sew up two more of his clothes just this week.

[master-of-stupidity]

Fuck it gonna put all my Tangled rants into a single thread that I'll just continue on if needed-

Oldest to newest btww (also spoilers most of these r about Eugene btw ik ik I'm a lil autistic spare me 💀)

That one part of Bruno is Orange but Eugene coded-

"Did you hear about that Father

Sent his own infant son away

And said "It's to *dangerous* for

you to stay so, I had to *save* you" "

I may be cringe but I am FREE

Yo omg ok so my brother is singin a Into the Woods song while I look at Tangled stuff n it made me remember a scene from the play where Gothel yells at the Prince "Rapunzel can think for herself!" n like- dude Cass said the same thing in Cassandra's Revenge to Eugene! Ooo girlll-

The way I would kill so many ppl if it meant getting a series about Lance n Eugene as kids like broooo imagineee-

Its crazy how like I'll be enjoying my day than suddenly I'll see a post of a mf going "Hey what if Eugene thought he was a yr younger cuz he was like a rlly scrawny kid?" Yeah ok sure n what if I hit u with a *metal pole*

My tangled ocs r so random its hilarious- like it goes from a bodyguard,a greedy businessman,a ringleader,n than that one serial killer who turns ppl into meat pies like how did we get here???? 😭🙏

I just remembered like just a few days ago my brother randomly said "vase" while playing Fortnite n my ass just said "vAHse" just to fck w/ him n like that kinda reminded me of that one scene of Eugene n Cass like damn they were sibling coded frrr lmao I miss em

Wdym there was a scrapped Eugene n Lance childhood episode??🧍And WDYM it's literally everything I ever wished for and more???????? 😃

Would love to see Eugene n Martin Kratt interact solely to see Martin be appalled n slowly lose his mind over how Eugene knows jackshit about animals 💀🙏

I think the Eugene genderbends look so weird to me because none of them kept the infamous goatee like cmon man don't be a coward give that girl some facial hair 🗣🗣

I should not be relating Heather's music to scenes from Tangled the Series yet here we r 😭

Omggg thinking about how Eugene proposing to Rapunzel in tts came from his abandonment issues n him literally not being able to see a life without Rapunzel omgg shut upppp leave me ALONEEE

Literally despise with every fiber of my being how the writers of the shitty Wreck it Ralph 2 movie had fcking RAPUNZEL of all ppl say "Do ppl assume all ur problems were solved just because a big strong man showed up?" They fcking HATEE the movie Tangled *so much* bro istggg

OMFG THE VOICE OF KING FREDRIC FROM TANGLED IS MR. FCKING KRABS WHAT?????

The way I wanna be bold n talk more about the "Over the Corona Walls" ep- esp about Staylan n Eugene n all the icky implications of that but I'm also so scared too cuz I fear ppl won't take me seriously or think I'm overanalyzing too much 😭🙏

Lowkey not over the fact Eugene was willing to trap himself back in an abusive relationship, "leaving" the one person he HAS died for n would die for again, all to save his best friend like bro don't TALK TO MEEEE

As u can tell I am totally normal n not at all ill about Eugene or this show 😁

What if I gave Eugene like- slight wedding trauma after the whole "Beyond the Corona Walls" incident??? I think it'd be kinda cool n in character ngll 🤭🤭

No but that prompt for the unaired Lance n Eugene episode STILL makes me so fcking ill bro stg can't STAND those mfss bro 😭😭

"And if I gave up on being *pretty* I wouldn't know how to be ALIVE" is SO Eugene coded idc idc idccccc

You think if I put Eugene Fitzherbert in The Amazing Digital Circus he'd be a walking dumpster fire considering he needs an identity to function n in TADC u like- quite literally don't have one??? 💀

Was listening to an audio last night n now I kinda wish we knew like- what Eugene's mom was actually *like* in a way considering I don't think her character was ever explored :((

Why is this plushie literally Eugene Fitzherbert omgg I want it nowwww

To the ppl who only see others as their pfps lowkey rlly hope y'all just see me as jester Eugene Fitzherbert cuz that'd be rlly funny n I'd love that 💀🙏 like yes I truly am just Eugene in a jester fit yappin my ass off on twitter dot com LMFAOOO (btw follow me @/theratbatjester)

[hyhkai]

( > ᴗ⁠ < ) © hyhkai. — wips!

౨ৎ all of unreleased/unwritten works from me!

— fics.

girlfriend on a hiatus ;

after days and days of no texts, you decided to give up on soobin, but fate brought you back to him — dating his brother wasn't something you planned or saw coming.

sweetener [part two to dangerous woman] ;

after what you thought was a ‘good’ lesson for his stupid rumour that flew around like pamphlets, you're confused why he's on a field trip he said would be "boring as hell."

boyfriend ;

did you just get ghosted by the man who's willing to do anything to fuck a chick on campus, or anything that moves? you sure did, and it definitely wasn't enough humiliation for your pathetic ass, you couldn't let him assume he has a prerogative.

iz u down? ;

after the surprising return of taehyun from University during break, him suggesting playing tennis in the field near your house was stating the obvious. i mean, it was the most interesting thing you guys did growing up in your small town. however, him suggesting fucking you behind his house was not.

mean girls ;

after your grades managed to crumble their way down, your father shook his head disappointingly and sent for a tutor. that's just fucking bad, and to make things worse, your goody two shoes ex-boyfriend taehyun, apparently has a part-time job.

cat and mouse duet. ; ( 4 halloween)

there's one thing you look forward to every year no matter what — the carnival on halloweens. hueningkai, your brand new boyfriend — looks forward to the house of mirrors.

(inspired by the haunting adeline halloween scene)

find her ; (4 halloween)

hide n seek in a forest // taehyun + yeonjun

love (like the ana huang books.) ;

Choi Yeonjun is the man who's a devil with the face of an angel who happens to be your brother's best friend. He can not trust you with your endeavours. With your protective brother, who thinks you, and I quote, “would die while walking on the floors of a freshly-mopped mall”, gone for the month, the best idea was really to leave you with yeonjun living right beside your house to ‘baby-sit’ you? not so much. but choi yeonjun is a man of his words.

mr. right now ;

cocky!ceo x bold!reader. joining the new flourishing company, that you worked for get some experience for — to be met with the ceo who has a façade of a menace. to your luck, you've got the power to see right through him and make him lose his control. afterall, this company was not one you'd be working for long anyway.

and paris was fun ;

a new wound of a breakup, with you finally there at the college reunion after your friends begged and begged for you to come, saying that your past fuckbuddy from back in the day, none other than thee choi yeonjun, isn't coming. and oh boy are they good at lying.

nude model x artist!beomgyu ;

potential series! + restarted

LOVESEXDHOKA!!! ;

beomgyu — a mere pianist paid minimum wage. you — the bar owner's fiance, and the singer at the bar. cheating. potential... crimes.

(dhoka = danger/betrayal)

(inspired by the music video LOVESEXDHOKA!!! by chaar diwari)

— series.

dial 334 if you're lonely ;

i have actually forgotten what this was about so it's RESTARTED.

— thoughts.

★ minecraft with beomgyu headcanons

★ sub!idol : : things txt would say in bed (a version for each)

★ model!yeonjun

★ smut reader!soobin

★ chess player!hueningkai (vodka shots chess)

[puzzlebeanficrecs]

It's summer, and that means we have time to sit in the sun with a nice drink and time to read all the fics we want to. If you are looking for a nice, wonderful, Stucky fic to occupy your summer days with, look no further. This little list will help you out!

Not In The Answer But The Question by aimmyarrowshigh @aimmyarrowshigh (Teen and Up, No Archive Warnings Apply, 27,382 words)

It rankles that his drink was made before he even got a chance to order it.

What if he wanted a change?

What if he were adventurous and bold?

What if he tried something new?

---

Or, Steve Rogers shakes up his gray daily routine in 2014 by going back home to Vinegar Hill. To his surprise, the Jewish deli he used to frequent with Arnie is still standing.

And Steve's whole life changes again.

Why it's being recced: This story is a beautiful deep dive into Steve’s life and the way he feels about adjusting to a new century, himself and Captain America. It's enhanced by food, Jewish culture, the Barnes Deli, queerness, disability, Brooklyn, and the love Steve and Bucky find with each other. The writing takes you by the hand and leads you through the story, through the feelings it evokes. This is truly everything I could ever want from a Stucky fic.

The Roommate by Niitza (Teen and Up, No Archive Warnings Apply, 28,632 words)

In which Steven G. Rogers, a.k.a. Captain America, gets a roommate. Who rapidly turns into his "roommate"—in the euphemistic sense of the word.

It takes SHIELD and the rest of the Avengers an absurd amount of time to notice.

Why it's being recced: This is a wonderful story about people only seeing what they want to see and also Steve being seen for who he is by Bucky, when others don't. The fic also goes into privacy and how people assume someone like Steve doesn't deserve it. Though, of course, Bucky does think so. The characterization of Steve and Bucky is spot on in this. I also really enjoyed the multiple POV's. It added to the premise of the story and it was interesting to have a glimpse into different characters' heads.

Cynics are Simply Thwarted Romantics by Reccea (Unrated, No Archive Warnings Apply, 13,746 words, Archive Locked)

"It could be alien technology," Natasha offered, folding her arms over her chest. "Something he stumbled on. They're still finding things from the Chitauri so it's not impossible. But the simplest answer is the most likely."

"How is magic the simplest answer?" Stark asked.

Or

In which Steve is Sleeping Beauty and true love's kiss doesn't have to be requited. Or does it?

Why it's being recced: This is a fun and compelling story, filled with magic, true love's kiss and wondering whether the love you feel for someone is requited or not. The friendship between Sam, Bucky, and Steve is also wonderful in this and the ending of the story makes me smile.

I Can't Do Everything (But I'll Do Anything For You) by musette22 @musette22 (Explicit, No Archive Warnings Apply, 24,576 words)

Steve Rogers cares about a lot of things, but dating isn’t one of them – much to his fellow Avengers’ bemusement. It’s just never been very high on his list of priorities, falling somewhere behind his work, his friends, his hobbies, and that excellent pepperoni pizza from Vinnie’s on Flatbush Ave.

That is until one night, Natasha drags Steve out to a charity music concert by some hotshot singer that Steve has never actually heard of (which would surprise exactly no one, seeing as Steve is still partial to his records and his radio plays). And as soon as Steve lays eyes on Grammy-award winning musician and international heartthrob James Barnes for the very first time, suddenly he wonders if maybe dating wouldn’t be so bad after all. Dating James Barnes, specifically, that is. The question is just: how does one go about that? Especially one like Steve, who’s never wooed anybody in his century-long life, let alone a man. Let alone a man with long, dark hair, tattoos all over his arms, and a fanbase that rivals Steve’s own.

It’s not like he can just go up to him and say something like, "You and me babe, how about it?"

Why it's being recced: This is a really fun story and Steve and Bucky are so cute in it. I loved how Steve just immediately was completely blown away by Bucky’s beauty. I also really like fics that incorporate music the way this fic does. Music has such a way of changing our lives and this fic felt like that. I also liked how vivid the descriptions are in this story.

A Long, Long Way by thepinupchemist (Teen and Up, No Archive Warnings Apply, 5,595 words)

Post-Thanos, post-Captain America, post-Nomad, Steve Rogers is lost. He takes a Volkswagen bus on a self-discovery tour of the United States.

When Steve hits a bicyclist in the Rocky Mountains, he meets the love of his life.

Why it's being recced: I think road trip fics are fun and this one certainly delivers. There's humor, there's sweetness, and the characterization is spot on. I also loved the hype for Cap!Sam and all the references to books.

[beanghostprincess]

(Trans women usopp has stolen my heart I think just love women in general ) Usopp Robin and Nami have a nice self care day with just the girls. (Chopper is invited too, they can't say no to him.) They stay in the shower room, they fill the bath and run the showers on hot. They play relaxing music, Nami bought lavender shower steamers, Robin lit candles. Usopp gets sanji to make hors d'oeuvres and fancy drinks he leaves them at the bathroom door. No peeking!

Chopper brought a video transponder snail to watch a movie. Usopp does their hair she's been practicing her braiding. She gave Robin a nice Dutch braid and Nami a mermaid tail. She also curled copper's little tuff of fur on his head, in return robin has been researching how to do textured hair and gave her a French braid and afro puff combo.

While they were relaxing and talking Luffy showed up asking what they were doing? Nami scolds him for coming in knowing that they're all naked and asks why is he even here? and close the door he knows how fast Brooke and Sanji are.

Luffy explained he only came into the bathroom because he needed to poop (no manners whatsoever) and Zoro was using the other bathroom to meditate. Robin and Usopp are not really affected by his antics and just enjoy Nami yelling at him. Luffy being unfazed by her tongue lashing casually sits down and eats the treats Sanji made for them. He doesn't get why it's such a big deal. Like you're just naked, plus chopper is here and he's not a girl and he's seen usopp naked before (granted this was pre-transition but I guess his point still stands)

Robin invites him to join them but lock the door. You may be the exception but the others are not. Despite Nami's protests Luffy has already stripped and jumped in slashing every one ( imagine getting so far in his journey to become the king of the pirates only to die in bathwater). She sighed in defeat and just accepted that he's here, could be worse.

They continue what they were talking about. Nami is learning how to make hail and she made a tornado by accident of course and she's still trying to recreate it.

Usopp learned how to crossbreed one of her poison pop seeds and her thorny pop seats and made a new weapon. She's also trying to make a pleasant smelling corpse plant. She tried roses, lavender and even sage. But nothing works. Nami suggests that maybe she should use tangerines to cross breed.

Robin has been researching about a vase she found, made of wood and clay. Apparently it's from an island that is isolated from the rest of the world. Everything is handmade or out of scratch, their recipes, their clothing even their soaps. All of their food is homegrown and their meat is known as the best meat in the world.

Luffy didn't need any more convincing he got out and commanded Franky to change course to go to find this island. (Sanji and Brooke tackled Luffy demanding every juicy detail of what he saw in there.) Of course everyone had to get out and get to their stations ruining their whole little spa day. Nami was specifically pissed because she's the navigator.

I love women too <- A lesbian.

This is such a cute and adorable idea!!! I love them!!! I've always thought Nami and Robin let Usopp join their girl nights even before coming out bc they've always felt safe around her, and when she came out it wasn't really a surprise to them tbh. Their spa day looks so cozy and relaxing (until they interrupt them)!! It sounds great. They'd do this 100%. And Luffy would stay bc Luffy is Luffy and the concept of intimacy for him isn't really a thing. Plus bold of you to assume he's a man. Non-binary king, that's what he is. Also Chopper staying with them also makes sense and it's extremely cute!!! Sanji is literally dying to go in there lmfao-- Not to make this about Sanuso but I think he waits by the bathroom door like a wet dog to see his girlfriend again. He misses her! Clingy golden retriever.

[maybeimamuppet]

43 Janis/ 27 30 Veronica/ 3 24 my boy Damian/ 3 Cady Karen plss

hello nonnie thank youuuu !!!

let’s get into this shall we this is gonna take me another hour lmao /pos

JANIS

43 - 3 favorite foods and 3 they despise

loves:

1. sushi. she will repeatedly eat gas station sushi knowing ahead of time it will make her sick bc she loves it that much

2. anything pumpkin. latte. bread. cookies. pie. she loves spooky season so it cheers her up when she’s sad. her most common activity with damian is making some yummy pumpkin treat and one of them crying into the batter or whatever

3. pineapple. it eats you back and she respects the metal vibes of that hardcore

hates:

1. spaghetti. she ate a worm on a dare as a child and never recovered. any other pasta is fine tho

2. fish because it makes her think too hard

3. popsicles bc they always melt weird and get everywhere. and regina teases her bc. yknow.

VERONICA

27 - their guilty pleasures

bold of you to assume she doesn’t feel guilty about all of her pleasures

ummm. buying new notebooks and journals and never using them. one specific slightly more expensive brand of cigarettes. “ocean” scented bubble bath. carrying around new books and sparking conversations with guys about them and seeing how long it takes them to realize she’s never read it.

i don’t know what a guilty pleasure is i’m realizing

30 - sleeping habits

HA

if she sleeps she’s a very light sleeper. she’s always been naturally inclined to stay up late and sleep in but after canon and her mental health declining she’s borderline nocturnal. she wakes up if the wind blows too hard outside and is tormented by nightmares for years so she tries to avoid sleeping until she just crashes. her bloodstream is like 72% coffee.

DAMIAN (my baby boy thank you 😭😭)

3 - obscure headcanon

when (or if) ever janis gets married he just materializes in her house sometimes. janis’ partner is more used to it and okay with it than she is.

they did not give him a key.

24 - most annoying habit

this man never stops singing a moment of his life. shower? singing. cooking? singing. studying? singing. sleeping? singing. and it’s always a new musical song he doesn’t know all the words to or the tune quite right yet and e v e r y o n e is fed tf up. and he also dances literally everywhere.

CADY

3 - obscure headcanon

she can talk backwards. sentences and words.

KAREN

3 - obscure headcanon

tacos are to karen what sushi is to janis.

she will seek out tacos wherever she can find them. whatever’s in them doesn’t matter. crunchy. soft. chipotle. taco bell. street tacos. she’s a wanderer when she’s drunk (and also sober) and the first place they look for her is the nearest taco establishment. burritos? get outta here. she will eat tacos from the garbage if they are available.

let baby go to taco bell!!!!

[liminalpebble]

Teaser snippet for The Other Side

Hi Friends,

Some of you expressed interest in reading a WIP snippet of the new Eddie series I'm working on. No pressure at all to read or engage. Just thought you might enjoy.

Much Love!

Peb

---

The Other Side (Summary)

After the battle with Vecna and his presumed-death, Eddie begins his next life in the twilight world of the Upside Down.

His wounds are miraculously healing, but at the terrible price of a strange and monstrous appetite. Before long, Eddie is changing into something else...something not quite human.

Soon, Eddie the Banished finds himself in a battle to remain the man he is, before the dark dimension can make a monster of him.

On the other side, his long-time friend and classmate, Mina, goes on with her life, mourning the metalhead she always loved (though he never knew how deeply). She assumes that now he never will. Eddie had always taken her companionship for granted, but now their memories together mean more to him than she could ever know.

Mina and Eddie rediscover each other through mementos of their past, their interdimensional presence, and the lost pieces of themselves which the other manages to find. Will they find each other through the fog without losing themselves? Only time will tell, but for Eddie Munson, time is running out.

CW: talk of death, angst, eventual sex and gore

AN: OFC x kas!Eddie, slow burn, friends to lovers, Eddie's kind of a dick sometimes, but has a soft side...so, in line with the show's portrayal.

-----

All the World's a Stage (Snippet, Flashback)

Eddie crossed his arms over his chest, gave a pissy little twitch of his head and a brooding huff, sending up flecks of sawdust in his wake. At least he put the drill down first, pausing his work on the platform. His clumsiness, though endearing, made her nervous sometimes...much of the time, actually.

“Well, just to warn you, I heard the basketball team talking...daring Chad to ask you as a fucking joke.”

His tone came with a gloating sneer, an unspoken I told you so itching on the tip of his tongue.

“I know. He already asked me and I already turned him down,” she replied coolly, praying that she sounded a hell of a lot more indifferent and imperturbable than she felt.

Mina stared down at the bold black numbers on the yellow tape measure unraveled before her very intently. Even so, she could feel Eddie's energy boring a hole through her as surely as the drill would.

She smoothed the plastic line down for the fifth time although she already knew it was straight enough; yielding the same measurement yet again. It was much harder than it should have been to do simple geometry when the dungeon master played for attention.

Eddie's eyes lit up as they bounced back to her.

“You're not going? So you're gonna come to Hellfire?”

He had sawdust in voluminous his hair, and goddammit, she thought, why won't that idiot ever wear safety glasses or tie his hair back?

“Why? To bring brownies, like I always do, and watch you guys play because you're too busy being awesome at it to deal with a Level 3?”

“Come on! You know you love our company! You're just gonna mope at home then?”

He loosened his posture, flopping dramatically onto his elbows over the podium between them, fixing her with the those big, expressive eyes.

“No. I'm going to prom.”

“Alone?” He says a little too loudly, jumping back up and clutching at his heart theatrically.

Mina averts her eyes, embarrassed, as her heart hits the long black floorboards. She hides it, as she always does. She's so good at playing this part by now and considers, wryly, that maybe she should have auditioned for a speaking role, after all.

He could be so mean when he thinks he's being playful. The insult pricked like the sting of puppy teeth. It drew blood, but she was unable to hate him for it.

“Jesus H. Christ, Mina! Why? Alone?” he repeats.

“Yes, Eddie...alone...because for one night I want to dance to their shitty music, and drink spiked punch, and wear a pretty dress, and feel like I belong, even though I don't. Just for one night. Okay? And I would have asked you, but I know you'd never go...so yeah...alone.”

Eddie blinked as if struck, realizing he'd hit a nerve.

She's usually so easy-going. What is her problem lately?

The silence sat heavy between them for a moment. Now they stood like mirrored chess pieces, arms crossed, eyes down; a no man's land littered with taped-on multicolored marks between them. The powerful stage lights hummed and heated the auditorium, painting some areas with strikingly sharp clarity, others in deep, contrasting, shadow.

Their eyes hurt.

The tension in the deserted theater hung around them like humidity, like several hundred invisible eyes were glued to them; ghosts in every seat, leaning forward, eagerly awaiting the next line of this drama unfolding before them.

Finally, Eddie broke the standoff, asking softly, “What color is your dress?”

“Dark...indigo...like...a nice purple-y blue.”

“Sounds...pretty.”

“Yeah...it is. It's a shame you won't get to see it.”

Silence again. A crushing, aching, silence, broken eventually by Mina's exhausted sigh.

“It's almost midnight. I need to get home...See you later, Eddie.”

Eddie grumbled a “yeah, okay.”

She barely heard it over the sharp tap of her feet carrying her past him, away from the interrogating rays and into the wings as quickly as possible.

The glaring lights were behind her, yet her eyes still stung with afterimages and her skin still burned.

(Thank you, friends, for reading! P.S. The final chapter of Eddie's Education really is on it's way, I promise. I'm just taking my sweet time to make sure I stick the landing, so thanks for your patience. Muwah. Love yas.

@somnambulic-thing @fairyysoup @lexr86 @hellfirenacht @little-wormwood @littlexdeaths @bettyfrommars @lesservillain @josephfakingquinn @sweetsigyn @anukulee @loz-3 @buttercupcookies-blog @take-everything-you-can @word-wytch @munson-blurbs @leelei1980 @msgexymunson @thenotoriouserg @ladyofthestayingpower @mediocredreams @lolahasmoxie @ultrabuzzlightyear @fandxmslxt69 @kissmyacdc @veemoon @elegantkoalapaper @eddiesxangel @amberolivia666 @bookworm-christina