#brought to you by; my annoyance with the bachelor

[rie-092]

CURSED CHILD.

「 tcf x child! reader 」

summary : the white star loved his child, he really does.

‘ OH, GOSH. I HATE MY LIFE. ’

The red-haired child couldn't help but frown as she walked through the hallways of the orphanage. Everyone knew how famous the Sekka family is in the Paerun Kingdom. That's why when the son and the future duke of that family showed an interest in an orphan like her, the whole orphanage became happy.

The little redhead's reddish brown eyes held a glint of annoyance as she looked at her arms that were covered with the sleeves of her clothes. The fact that the young master of the Sekka dukedom is here to visit her again, made the staff of the orphanage buy an expensive-looking dress that'll surely cover her bruises and dress her up. "You better not mess up this time, (name)."

"Yes." The little girl blankly said as they stopped walking. (Name), the girl looked at the huge door in front of her with a stoic expression on her face. "You were lucky that Young Master Clopeh is fond of you."

Fond? Seems like he's obsessed to me.

She deadpanned, watching how the woman in front of her opened the door. Revealing a young man sitting in a wheelchair, elegantly sipping on his tea. Rei could only sigh as she saw how the woman who was supposed to be her caretaker blushed at the sight. And she only blushed even more when Clopeh tucked his white hair behind his ear as his brilliant green eyes met (name)'s reddish-brown ones. (Name) wanted to curse and run away when she saw how Clopeh's face brightened when he saw her.

"(Name)!"

Rei's lips curved onto a bright smile as she walked towards Clopeh while internally telling herself that violence was never an answer. "Hello, sir!" Acting like a child was something that Rei was used to so this was a piece of cake for her. Clopeh smiled fondly as he ruffled (Name)'s hair before looking at the woman behind her, signalling her to leave. And the woman gladly obeyed.

And seeing that her caretaker left. (Name) found herself wishing that the Arm would appear before her and slash her body into two so she could just move on to her next life and make sure to avoid the people who were similar to the guy in front of her. The calm and noble-like aura that Clopeh was radiating earlier completely disappeared. He clasped his hands together and started reciting some kind of prayer before looking at the little redhead with a blush on his face.

This lunatic. (Name) sweatdrop.

The most handsome bachelor in the Paerun Kingdom? A noble knight? The future head of the Sekka household? No. In (name)'s eyes, Clopeh Sekka was a certified lunatic who for some reason started to treat her like some kind of God.

"I brought your favourite cookie with me, (Name)-nim."

Ah fuck, I hate my life.

[lght-roastcoffee]

⋆ ˚｡⋆ Jealous ⋆ ˚｡⋆

prompt: "Are you jealous?"┆Tuna-Tober ⊹ Day 3

pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x fem!Reader

wordcount: 1.6K

warnings: slight language

author's note: So I've only watched the netflix show and have yet to read the books, so my knowledge of the series and universe is from that. I love Benedict though. He's the himbo rich boyfriend I've always wanted. ♡

˖ ᡣ𐭩 ⊹ 𝘯𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 ˖ ᡣ𐭩 ⊹ 𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘢-𝘵𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘴 ˖ ᡣ𐭩 ⊹

“Why do you insist I wear these silly gowns, Mama?”

My mother huffs as she swats at my fidgeting hands, trying to find a more comfortable angle in this ridiculous corset. She straightens the damned thing back to how it was, one of the bones digging its way into the side of my waist.

“Because, darling,” she begins, smoothing my hair to the side, “tonight is your first ball back into society. I know you enjoyed your time in the country with your aunt, but it is time you find yourself a husband.”

Taking my gloved hand in hers, she places a dance card on my wrist and leads me into the Danbury estate where tonight’s social event is in full swing. 

“Now, remember.” Mama turns to face me, cradling my face in her hand. “Tonight is for you to socialize and get to know those of the Ton. If you do not find someone who has caught your attention tonight, I will still love you.” 

Mama smiles at me before taking my hand again and guiding me inside the grand ballroom. It was filled with a vast assortment of fellow debutants, bachelors, and families mingling. In the middle of the room, couples were participating in the dancing, others talking near the lemonade tables, and others hovering around the dance floor conversing with their neighbors. Off to one side, I spot the one person I was hoping to see tonight dressed in the ever-recognizable blue color nearly all the Bridgertons wear. I quickly say goodbye to Mama, who was already conversing with Lady Danbury, and rush over to my friend.

“Eloise!” I greet, catching the girl’s attention. “It is so great to see you, my dear!” 

Eloise’s face lights up in recognition, turning to hug me. “Y/N! How was the country? You will have to recount your time to me! I’m sure your aunt taught you much in your time together.” 

My mother thought it best for me to get away after my failed engagement to Lord Pedleton, a filthy man double my age of twenty years. My father thought the union would bring fortune to our families, but all it brought was harm after Lord Pedleton was found bedding his maid. The scandal it brought to both our families caused my father to break the union and my mother convinced him it was best I spend some time with my aunt.

For the past year since, my aunt has taught me everything she knows and how to be in society as a woman while enjoying the more… improper joys in life. She took me to gallery openings of her friends, invited me to parties and gatherings with equal minded artists and intellectuals who did not look down at me for being a woman. She encouraged me to begin writing and worked with me to finish my first novel, publishing under a pseudonym and watching as others enjoyed my craft. To say I thoroughly enjoyed my time away was an understatement, and Eloise knows as I’ve written to her through the year and sent her an advanced copy. 

“It was wonderful, Eloise,” I sigh, a slight smirk forming on my lips. “The things I’ve done would make you blush.

She laughs, throwing her head back and grabbing my arm. “Oh, I’m certain! But I’m sure you missed me, or more accurately,” she leans in, mischief dancing in her eyes, “you missed my brother, did you not?”

My cheeks flare as I swat the girl away in playful annoyance. “Eloise!”

“What?” Eloise raises her hands in defense. “I only speak the truth! It is not like you haven’t been smitten with him since we were children!”

“Smitten with who, exactly?”

Speak of the devil and he shall appear. That’s how the saying goes, is it not?

Benedict Bridgerton struts over to the two of us from whatever corner he was hiding in, butterflies erupting in my chest at the sound of his voice. His face lit up in boyish excitement as he stepped to his sister’s side. 

“No one!” I quickly reply, glaring at my friend before she can speak any more. 

Benedict chuckles, looking between Eloise and myself. “Well, I do hope whoever has your eye is worth it.” 

I roll my eyes. “There is no one that has my eye, Ben. Eloise was just asking about my time in the country.”

“Ah, yes! How was it?” His blue eyes pierce mine as he engages in the conversation. The look he gives is filled with an emotion I haven’t seen before.

“Oh you know,” I shrug, trying to avoid the total truth, “my aunt introduced me to her friends and I learned how she lives. She is always lively company to keep.”

“Well, I’m glad you enjoyed yourself, and that you have now rejoined us!” Benedict slightly bowed in a playful manner, pulling a laugh from myself and an eye roll from Eloise. “You’ll have to join us sometime for a game of pall mall. It hasn’t been quite the same without you there to taunt Anthony.”

I smile widely, returning his bow with a curtsy. “Of course, Mr. Bridgerton. I wouldn’t miss it for the world!”

The three of us stand in our corner recounting the past year together and catching up. I didn’t quite realize just how much I had missed my friends, but I am glad to be back in their company. 

While in the middle of Benedict explaining his recent work of art, I feel a tap on my shoulder, pulling the attention to the young man behind me. 

“Excuse me, miss,” he says. The man is young, not that much older than myself, with dark hair and a scrawny frame. “I apologize for interrupting, but I was wondering if I could take your next dance.”

I blush slightly out of both embarrassment and disbelief. “Oh, uh, sure.”

He takes my hand in his, filling out a line on my dance card before leading me to the dance floor. The music begins and the familiar tune fills the room. The man bows and I curtsy before getting swept into the dance. My partner is nervous, I can tell. His dance moves are clumsy and rushed, palms growing clammy. He refuses to meet my eye and is silent the entire time. 

Not very far into the dance, I glance back to where I left my two friends, Eloise silently laughing at my misery after getting tripped over and Benedict watches with a hard look on his face. I continue moving, but I cannot take my eyes off Benedict. The look on his face, eyes hard, jaw clenched, is one I had only seen when he was frustrated or angry. Why would he be angry?

Soon, the music ends and I remove myself from my partner, excusing myself back to my friends quickly. 

“Well that was quite the show!” Eloise laughed. For what felt like the hundredth time tonight, I rolled my eyes at the girl, but joined in her laughter.

“He might not be the greatest dance partner, but he wasn’t hard on the eyes, was he?” 

At my jest, I hear Benedict scoff before crossing his arms across his chest. “Please, the boy could hardly keep up.”

“Are you jealous?” I tease, stepping closer to him. Up close, I see his eyes shift across my face, shock dancing over his eyes briefly.

“Well- I-” Benedict stutters.

“I believe mama is calling me,” Eloise announces, clearly trying to leave and nearly tripping over another girl as she backs away. “I shall catch up with you later, Y/N.”

I huff before the feeling of a hand on my forearm is dragging me outside to the gardens. I struggle to keep up with Benedict’s quick strides before I stop around a secluded corner.

“Ben, what-” He interrupts me.

“What if I am?” Benedict stares at me, eyes wide and darting between mine.

“I’m sorry?”

“What if I am jealous?” He steps closer, but I stand my ground. He slowly closes the distance, taking one of my gloved hands in his.

“I would say that I have been jealous as well.” 

He leans in closer, face mere inches from mine, allowing me to see the creases and lines on his gorgeous face. His blue eyes, with flecks of green scattered like stars, dilate at my words. His other hand comes to rest on my cheek, thumb rubbing against my cheekbone. 

“You are so beautiful,” he says shakily. “You have been since I first met you.”

The breath catches in my throat, my hand slightly squeezes his still in my grasp. My eyes dart from the intensity in his eyes to his lips just briefly, but just enough for him to notice. Suddenly, the feeling of his lips on mine is the only thing I feel, my head spinning as I return his kiss. My free hand trails along his arm to rest at his shoulder, the other letting go to do the same while his finds my waist.

“Wait-” He carefully pulls away slightly, searching my eyes. “Are you sure-”

I pull him back in, arms securing themselves around his neck as he melts into my embrace. We continue before the need to breathe takes over and we part, chests rising and falling with each inhale. The sight of him, hair disheveled, lips slightly swollen, is a sight I’d like to see everyday if he’d let me. He smiles, still catching his breath before laughing quietly. His infectious personality has me joining him, my head falling to rest on his chest with his arms wrapping around my frame.

His hand tilts my head up to look at him. “I am glad you’ve returned, my love.”

[bosbas]

Chapter 13: I thought we had no chance

series masterlist previous part || next part

pairing: colin bridgerton x enemy!fem!reader WC: 2.4k words

Warnings: period-typical gender roles, insane amounts of pining, idiots in love!!, the slow burn is slowww burningggg i'm so sorry

Summary: It took precisely two days in England for you to utterly despise Colin Bridgerton. It took him approximately twelve hours after that to hate you right back. But he doesn't care that you're the only person in the ton who doesn't like him. You're set to marry someone else anyway, right?

August 4, 1816 – It is with a touch of disappointment that I must report the utter lack of excitement brought by the Montclairs this season. The French family arrived in London with a promise of brilliance, only to leave us wanting in the absence of any true spectacle. One would expect that such a distinguished and intriguing family would set the ton ablaze with stories of romance and intrigue. Yet, all we have is a chill in the air and a longing for what could have been.

Young Louis Montclair may still be too green to set hearts aflutter, but Lady Y/N Montclair, with her grace and charm, should have at least gifted us with a simple love story, if not the grand epic we so eagerly anticipated. But there is still time for her to find a match, and with so many eligible bachelors in Mayfair, the possibilities are endless.

You scoffed at the gossip column in your hand, scandalized.

“I’m not that boring, am I?”  you wondered aloud.

Eloise snorted, looking up from her book as she sat across from you in the Bridgerton sunroom. “I assume you read Whisteldown? She was particularly ruthless this morning, I will admit. It is your first season, after all!”

You grumbled in annoyance, once again displeased by the expectations this mystery woman had placed upon you. It wasn’t like anyone knew who you were before you arrived in London. It wasn’t until her column that people started spreading rumors and believing you had something to offer that the rest of the ton did not.

But alas, what were you to do about it? If everyone in the ton expected you to have a magical love story and find the love of your life, they could have been so kind as to provide you with someone to fall for.

And that had not been the case so far. You had not found anyone to grow feelings for yet. No one suitable, at least, you mentally corrected yourself as you looked at Colin, who had just walked through the door. But it wasn’t like you actually had feelings for him. He was just Colin, the man who regularly drove you insane, initial misunderstanding or not.

“Are you ladies ready?” he asked, placing his hands behind his back politely.

You smiled to yourself at his gesture, but quickly shook the thought away as you looked at Eloise.

“Thank you again for chaperoning, Colin,” she said, smiling a little too wide for someone who was simply going to a gallery with her friend and her brother.

You narrowed your eyes slightly. “I still don’t understand why we needed another chaperone. Elizabeth is quite enough on her own,” you said, referring to your lady’s maid, who was going to come with you as well.

“Each of us needs a chaperone,” Eloise responded as if it was obvious.

Not entirely convinced, you raised an eyebrow archly and turned to look at Colin, who just shrugged in response.

“And you wanted to come? Willingly?” you asked him.

He laughed, highly amused at how suspicious you were of him. “I promise you, I was not forced to come against my will.”

“Well, let’s go then,” urged Eloise, hooking her arm in yours and dragging you out of the room.

---

Colin looked around the room, eyes searching for you. It had become second nature to look for you in every room he was in, and he could freely admit to himself that you were too captivating to look away from.

Being friends with you might not have been his first choice, but it was yours, and he was more than happy to comply. He would find love again, eventually. Or maybe he wouldn’t. But he would rather respect your wishes and never be with you romantically than pressure you into something you could never want.

At present, you were standing very still, eyes wide and looking at the painting in front of you. Colin walked over to look at the work, and you inhaled sharply as he neared you.

Looking curiously at the painting, Colin recognized the French landscape, painted in the winter. He felt you breathing steadily next to him, and it was all he could do not to reach out and hold your hand.

“Is that what it really looks like?” he asked softly. He had only ever been to Paris, but he knew your family was from the countryside.

You nodded, blinking and turning to him. Smiling, you pointed to a chateau in the background of the painting.

“That’s in Tours, it’s very close to my home,” you said, fondness and nostalgia evident in your voice.

“I’d like to- I’ve never been there,” Colin stuttered out. Perhaps telling you that he wanted to go with you to your childhood home might be slightly too forward.

“You should go, it’s lovely in the summer,” you replied, nodding toward the painting. “I haven’t spent a summer there in many years.”

Hearing the wistfulness in your voice, Colin had to cross his arms to resist the urge to pull you into his chest. Usually, he was happy to be your friend. But sometimes, during moments like these, he wished that he could do away with social norms and simply hold you.

But alas, it was not meant to be.

“Do you ever wish you had stayed in one place your whole life?” Colin settled for asking.

You shook your head, biting your lip as you turned to smile at him. “Do you ever wish you had stayed home longer instead of traveling?”

“I suppose not,” he conceded, thinking of all the experiences he would have missed out on if he had stayed in England. “But I do feel a bit guilty when I come home and see that Hyacinth suddenly is a master at the pianoforte, and I realize that I missed all of it. Or that Gregory joins us on hunts now and I had no idea.”

“I do often miss my siblings now that they’re married and no longer live at home,” you agreed. “But traveling made you who you are, and it wouldn’t do Gregory and Hyacinth any good to have you home but not yourself. I am certain they know that you love them very much, regardless of whether you’re home all the time or not.”

“I wish I had someone to travel with,” Colin blurted out before he could stop himself.

Cringing, he looked at you nervously. But you only turned to him, smiling.

“I rather think the same,” you sighed. “That was what I wanted when I first began the season. A husband who would want to travel with me, or at least let me leave the country every now and then.”

 “And was that really so hard to find?” asked Colin sarcastically, knowing that the men of the ton were not quite as adventurous as he was.

“Well, finding one who also had a fortune and was titled was certainly an impossible task. I don’t really know what I was thinking,” you chided yourself, shaking your head at your own naivety. “I was certainly setting myself up for failure.”

“I’m certain that’s not true!” rushed out Colin, desperate to make you feel better, no matter how much he despised thinking about you with someone else. “I’m sure some man or another will show face as the perfect candidate.”

“I think what I want and what my parents want for me are two fundamentally opposed ideals. But perhaps my luck will turn in Spain next season.”

“Spain?” asked Colin, feeling his heart drop to his stomach at the thought of you leaving.

Though it had to happen eventually, with your father’s expectations as to who your husband could be, Colin still got a stabbing feeling in his chest when he thought of losing you forever. He had only known you for four months, but already you had completely changed him. He was more sure of himself now, he felt completely understood by someone for the first time, and most importantly, he knew what it felt like to be in love. The thought of it all slipping from his grasp at the end of the season was almost too much to bear.

“I was thinking I might give Spain a try and see if I have better luck in finding a husband there,” you said, attempting a carefree laugh but not quite succeeding at it.

“Oh,” responded Colin, not quite sure what else to say on the matter.

You had clearly made your decision, and he wasn’t sure what else he had to offer to make you stay for a little while longer. Nothing that would convince you, he thought. No title and no fortune.

Perhaps his mother had been wrong. Perhaps his love was not always enough. Especially given the fact that you were not interested in him in the slightest, that much was clear.

The best he could do for you now was to be your friend. And to never let you know that he loved you. Colin knew a confession of his feelings would only weigh on your mind heavily, adding nothing and taking away so much.

Realizing he had been staring into your eyes for a bit longer than was appropriate for two people who weren’t courting, Colin cleared his throat uncomfortably and turned to face the painting once more.

“I believe I saw another of his works down the hall. Would you care to take a look?” he offered, holding out his arm for you to take.

On the other side of the room, Eloise stood with Lady Danbury. The two had been deep in conversation for the better part of their time at the gallery, but neither had forgotten to keep an eye on you and Colin. Laughing to herself when she saw her brother follow after you like a lovesick puppy, Eloise turned to Lady Danbury, who was already looking in that direction.

“They make quite a pair, don’t they?” said the older woman. “I never thought I would see the day that Colin Bridgerton was ready to fall at the feet of a woman. And one he isn’t even courting, at that!”

Eloise laughed. “Me neither. However, I have been trying to get him to do something about it. Hence why I brought him here as my chaperone. Rest assured he would not have been my first choice otherwise.”

---

A few days later, you were sitting in the garden with your sister, Charlotte, and her husband. It had been a rainy few days, and at the first hint of sunshine, you had rushed out to enjoy the good weather, wanting to enjoy any moment when it wasn’t raining.

It seemed the rest of your family had a similar idea. Your father, accompanied by your brothers, had all marched boisterously outside, guns in hand as they prepared for an afternoon of shooting.

“Lovely weather, that,” said Louis, greeting Edward with a clap on the back.

“I don’t know how you and Charlotte do it,” said Jacques, who usually lived in sunny Tuscany. “I don’t think I could handle the constant dreary and rainy summers.”

Philippe, your brother, joined the conversation. Talking to Charlotte, he said, “You should come to Spain with me and Leonor. The summers there are delightful compared to this.”

You squealed in delight. “I can already picture it, the whole summer full of sunshine and warmth. I simply cannot wait.”

Edward, unaware of your plans for the following season, turned to you with confusion in his eyes. “And since when are you going to Spain?”

“Since every eligible man in London seems to be the devil incarnate,” you said, a light tone to your voice. “I am hoping Madrid might provide some better prospects than what I’ve encountered this year.”

“But why would you go all the way there?” pressed Charlotte, who also had not known that you were planning on leaving and was rather enjoying having her family nearby after living away from them for so many years.

You sighed and rolled your eyes. “As I said, I haven’t found anyone suitable. I will have to wait until next year to find someone.”

Your father cleared his throat, leaning against an empty chair in the garden. “Well, if you wanted to marry this season that would be acceptable as well. Some gentlemen are well suited.”

“Well suited?” you said, disbelief clear in your voice. “And who, pray tell, meets your incredibly exacting standards?”

“Colin Bridgerton, for one,” your father said nonchalantly, busy polishing the gun he was holding.

“Colin?” you sputtered, startled by your father’s change of heart. “But Colin isn’t even… he’s not… we’re not…”

“Aren’t you?” replied your father, an eyebrow raised at you.

“I hadn’t even considered it!” you said defensively.

This was only a slight lie. A partial truth, more like. You had certainly considered the possibility (he was an eligible bachelor, and you were a lady of marriable age, how could you not?!), but there was never any real intent behind those thoughts. It was more of a distant concept, so far from reality that it wasn’t even worth thinking about too deeply.

“I hadn’t considered it,” you repeated, although no one had spoken since.

As you watched your father and brothers move away to begin their afternoon shooting, you couldn’t help but feel like an entire world of possibilities had just opened. As you had very unconvincingly told your family, you had never seriously considered Colin Bridgerton as someone you could marry, let alone this season!

And whenever you had had those… thoughts… it was only because you knew that there was no chance you would actually marry him. He was safe. You didn’t have to worry about all the minutiae of whether he would be a good husband because there was simply no reason to. Or at least there hadn’t been until now.

But could you really like him? Could you grow to have feelings for him? You weren’t sure, and you certainly weren’t ready to sit down and think about it. What you had with him now was good, it was comforting. He was your friend, and you wanted nothing more than to continue having him in your life in that capacity.

—

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[ikeromantic]

Alice and the Beast pt 1

For my IkeRev 1K follower celebration, the votes came in for an AU with the Red Army and Alice in Beauty and the Beast. Part 1/5 Approx. 3000 words.

CAST:

Alice - Beauty

The Beast - Lancelot

Gaston - Jonah

LeFou - Zero

Cogsworth - Kyle

Lumiere - Edgar

Alice sat on the roof of the town’s tavern, book in hand. Here, she could read undisturbed, hidden by the steep peaks and wide chimneys. She leaned back against the wood shingles with a happy sigh. The day was chilly and Alice knew she should probably climb down, but she just needed to finish one more chapter . . .

“There you are.”

Her head jerked up at the sound of the voice, her brows twitching with annoyance. She found the source of the interruption. Jonah Clemence stared across the rooftop at her with an arrogance all his own. His amber eyes were lit with smoldering frustration and his perfect cupid’s bow lips twisted in a frown. Alice closed her book reluctantly. “Oh. Uhm. Hello?”  

Jonah crossed his arms. “That’s all you have to say?”

“Yes?” Alice felt a flare of irritation. What did he want, trumpets and flowers? She bit her tongue, determined to be polite. Jonah always brought out the worst in her. They were like oil and fire together. Explosive. 

“So you forgot.” His frown fell for a moment, a flicker of hurt in his gaze. He covered it quickly. “You do realize I am the most eligible bachelor in town. Women swoon when I walk by. Anyone would be flattered by a lunch date with me.” 

Lunch date . . . Alice remembered in sudden recollection. She’d been at the market when he cornered her, away from his ridiculous Heart Defenders club. They were a bunch of men and women that either wanted to date Jonah or protect him from romantic disappointments. Alice was never entirely sure which and didn’t care to find out. But they hadn’t been there when he stopped into her path and demanded she meet him for lunch. 

“I did. I am so sorry, Jonah. I - are you sure that date was today?” Alice did feel bad about leaving him hanging. Sure, he was arrogant and sometimes annoying but he was also kind and honorable. And either way, she wasn’t the kind of girl to ghost someone. Not intentionally.

Jonah gave her a withering look, then glanced over his shoulder and down. “Zero, was my date with Alice today?”

“Yes sir! I marked it down the day you asked her out.” Zero’s voice floated up from beyond the roof edge. It was rare to see Jonah around town without him, so Alice was not surprised he was lurking nearby. While Jonah might be the most attractive man in town, his faithful follower Zero was one of the most skilled. A great hunter and swordsman, devoted to the service of one Jonah Clemence.

Alice sighed and stood. “I’m really sorry about that, Jonah. Maybe we can reschedule?”

“No. We’ll go for a late lunch today.” He held out his hand to help her down.

Alice ignored the gesture, too annoyed with his assumption she would just drop her afternoon plans to eat with him. He never asked, he just assumed and ordered people around like he was royalty. “I -” She was a breath away from telling him off when the shingle under her foot came loose and she stumbled.

The tavern roof wasn’t high enough for a drop to be deadly, but it was going to hurt going off the side. Alice flailed, trying to catch her balance as she stumbled toward the edge. Then a strong pair of hands took hold of her, arms wrapping around her waist. She was pulled tight against a firm chest. Steady and safe.

She froze, awkward in the embrace and still processing her rescue. Alice clung to Jonah and took several deep breaths.

For his part, Jonah held her tightly, a warm, stable anchor. And for once, he didn’t make a snide comment or a prideful boast. He just held her there until she was ready to stand on her own again.

“Is everything ok up there?” Zero called from his spot on the ground.

“Thanks.” She pulled away from him, trying not to look as embarrassed as she felt. 

His expression was almost gentle, a genuine smile playing at the corners of his lips. And then it was gone, swept away by his usual mask of pride and certainty. “Now you owe me one.”

Alice wanted to argue, but there was no point. He had kept her from a painful fall, and even if that was just the gentlemanly thing to do, it was still worth her gratitude. “I do. So . . . what do you want?”

“First, we are going to have lunch together. A late lunch.” Jonah turned to call out to Zero. “We’re coming down now. Run ahead and let the cafe know.”

When they arrived at the little cafe and bakery, Zero was waiting for them beside a table. It sat right in the window to the cafe, where any passerby would see them together. Great. And there was a lit candle, burned down low now, beside a single red rose in a pretty little vase. Alice eyed them distrustfully. This looked a bit too romantic for her taste.

“Sit,” Jonah said imperiously. 

Zero pulled out her chair and Alice sat. “Thank you Zero.” She gave him a smile. Despite being Jonah’s henchman, Zero was actually a pretty nice guy. He didn’t deserve a grimace just because he did what his boss told him to do.

The waiter stopped at their table with drinks, sweet lemonade with a tart kick. Alice was surprised since they hadn’t ordered anything yet, but then she realized they weren’t going to. Jonah already had it sorted.

“Did you already order for me?” She raised an eyebrow.

“Of course. I don’t want to waste our date watching you dither over what to get.” He smiled smugly. “You will like what I ordered.”

Alice wanted very much to throw her lemonade in his cute little face, but when her stack of strawberries and cream pancakes came out, she had to admit that was exactly what she would have gotten anyway. They were delicious. Fluffy and sweet, with fresh strawberries in a sweet cream sauce. 

Jonah flashed a triumphant grin as she dug in. “See? You should trust me more. I have the best taste.”

“Yes, ok. Fine. These are great. Thank you. But I still would rather have picked them myself.” 

He turned his head to look out the window, staring over the heads of his fan-club. They’d gathered outside to watch him eat. Several stared daggers at Alice for being his ‘lucky’ companion. Jonah let out a huff. “You can be so difficult. But -” He looked at her again, vulnerability flickering in his amber eyes. “That’s part of what I like about you. Everyone else in town just goes along with what I want. Not you.”

Alice wasn’t sure what to make of this. Was it a - a compliment? After a moment, she gave him a faint smile. “Thank you. I think.”

“You think? What do I need to do to flatter you? You are so infuriating.” He went back to his mille feuille, a tiny frown wrinkling his perfect brow. 

“Sorry, then. I don’t mean to be. Besides, you aren’t exactly Prince Charming.”

Jonah gave a little laugh. “You know he’s a fictional character, right? In real life, there’s just guys like me. And Zero, I guess.”

“Thanks!” Zero gave a nod from where he stood by the door, ready in case Jonah needed him for something. 

“Pffft.” Alice stuck her tongue out at him. “So what if he is? That doesn’t mean I can’t meet someone as nice.”

Jonah gave her a pointed look. “I’m nice, you know. Very nice.”

A raised brow was the only response Alice gave him to that. He wasn’t wrong, exactly. He was nice. Just insufferable and arrogant to boot.  

After lunch, they parted ways, with Jonah extracting a promise that Alice did indeed owe him another date for the roof rescue. This one didn’t count because she’d agreed to it before. She found she didn’t mind agreeing as much as she thought she would. Sometimes Jonah wasn’t that bad. 

Alice ran her errands in town as quickly as she good. It felt like everyone from the bakery boy to the girl at the vegetable cart knew she’d had lunch with Jonah. Every single one tried to find out how it went, and were they together, and what did she think of him. Alice gave them the best non-answers she could but at some point it was hard to be obtuse. 

When she got home and put her purchases away, she felt a deep sense of relief to finally be alone and away from the questioning, jealous looks. Why was it so hard for people to believe she’d rather be alone and reading than out on a date? She sighed heavily and frowned at the kitchen stove. 

More than anything, she wanted to curl up with her favorite love story and forget the whole thing, but her father was due back from his trip today and she wanted him to come home to a warm meal. Alice started preparing in the kitchen. A thick, brown bread with a hearty soup. Roasted vegetables and a fruit salad. 

Her work was interrupted by a heavy, insistent knock at the door. She dried her hands and went to see who it was. “If it’s Jonah, I swear I am going to give him a piece of my mind,” she murmured.

Zero stood at the stoop, his expression oddly distant and tense. 

“If you’re here because Jonah -”

“I’m not here for him.” Zero’s lips pressed to a thin line. “Your father. We found his wagon. What’s left of it.”

Alice felt the world drop out from under her. “What . . . is left? Where is my dad?” She tried to keep her voice level. Calm. But she could hear the shrill panic creep into the words.

“We didn’t find him. Just the wagon, smashed to bits at the bottom of a hill. It looks like he might have lost control on the downslope. The horses are gone, and so is he.” Zero took a breath. “But there are tracks leading to the old Kingsley estate. He might have gone there.”

“Kingsley?” Alice knew the name. Once a prominent ruling family in the area, the estate was now sunk into decay. It was rumored that the last Kingsley still lived there, a bitter hermit with no one but a few trusted servants for company. 

Zero nodded. “I wanted to let you know, so you wouldn’t find out from rumors.” He paused, reached for her. His warm hands enclosed her own. “I am going to follow the tracks. Talk to Kingsley, if he’s really there. We’ll find your father. I promise.”

She drew in a long shaky breath, and pulled her fingers from Zero’s grip. “Ok. Yes. Wait. Right here.” Then she rushed inside, changing from her dress into a pair of practical trousers, heavy boots, a heavy shirt and jacket. Alice tucked a pairing knife into her coat pocket, as well as bandages and flask of liquor. 

Zero was right where she left him, looking cold and confused. “Alice. What are you doing?”

“Obviously, I’m coming with you.” She gave him her best determined glare.

“No.”

Alice stepped out and closed the door behind her. “You can’t stop me. Besides, what if he’s hurt? He might need me.” 

“It’s dangerous,” Zero told her. “There are wolves. The Magic Tower. Rogue wizards and bandits -”

“I’m not scared.”

“Alice -”

“Zero, I’m going. Now, I can go by myself or you can help. Which is it?”

His dark blue eyes studied her for a long, silent moment. Then he nodded. “I won’t let any harm come to you.” He turned and gestured for her to follow. 

“You don’t have to protect me,” she told him, following. 

Zero didn’t say anything.

The old dirt road that led out of the village disappeared into the shadows beneath ancient, twisted trees. The bare branches stretched like bony fingers toward the sky, clutching at the grey wintry clouds. Alice gave a little shiver as she and Zero passed out of the light and into the gloom. I am not afraid, she told herself. 

Zero reached over without a word and took her hand. 

Alice felt her face heat but she didn’t pull away. It made her feel braver, despite the strange sounds and chill wind. 

The hike to her father’s wrecked wagon didn’t take as long as she expected. She could see the steep cliff path and the sharp curve, the shattered remains of the safety fence. And down at the bottom, her father’s wagon. Her heart turned to ice in her chest, and for a moment she couldn’t move, not even to breathe.

“It’s alright, Alice. It’s just things there. Not your father.” Zero squeezed her fingers gently. 

His words brought warmth back into her chest, and after a moment she was able to move forward. 

They walked together toward the wreck. While Zero crouched down to look for tracks, Alice walked around the wagon. The wheels were broken, the pots of bookbinding glue were crushed, the dyed leather, string, and the sheafs of thin, bleached paper scattered across the ground.

She was just glad it was only the shipment of supplies. Things could be replaced, but her dad was priceless. 

“Found them. This way, Alice.” Zero called her over. 

Alice stared at the ground where Zero stood, but she couldn’t see whatever tracks he was following. As far as she could tell, no one had ever come this way before them. “Are you sure this is the way my father went?”

He nodded, gesturing. “There’s a spot there where the ground is compacted. And there, some bent grass.”

She could kind of see it, when he pointed the signs out. It made her feel a little better. Alice walked alongside Zero, letting him point out all the little signs of her father’s passage. As the day edged toward evening, it was even harder to see them. “Do you think we’ll find him before it gets dark?” The sky was already fading to a muddy shade of slate, the colors of sunset hidden behind heavy clouds. 

“Maybe.”  Zero paused, going very still. 

Alice took a few more steps before she realized he’d stopped. She turned to ask him why, but the words died in her throat as she heard a not-so-distant howl. Her eyes went wide. “Wolves! Should we run?”

He shook his head and loosened the sword in his scabbard. Zero turned, his eyes narrowed as he searched for some sign. Then he gestured to Alice. “Get behind me.”

She barely had time to obey before the first dark shapes slipped from the brush nearby. Her little pairing knife appeared in her hand, though the tiny blade felt like a joke against the creatures swarming toward them. 

The wolves were nearly as large as a horse, with dense fur in shades of black, grey, and brown, and eyes that glowed in the gloom with a purple hue. They moved with feral grace, quick and lethal. Alice felt a shiver run down her spine. 

Zero’s sword was in his hand, the edge glinting sharply in what was left of the day’s light. He was ready when the wolves rushed forward. A mass of motion, dense fur and sharp teeth. Low growls punctuated by high-pitched whines as his blade darted and flashed among them. 

Alice watched with awe. She’d known he was the best swordsman in town. The most accomplished hunter. But to see him like this made it real for her. Zero, always quiet and a little awkward, the man in Jonah’s shadow, danced among the wolves with lethal elegance. He dodged every snap of their hungry jaws, laying about with the flat of his blade. 

She was so fixed on watching him that she didn’t notice the wolf slipping around behind them. It came for her in a silent charge. Alice stumbled back, but she wasn’t fast enough to get out of its way. Paws the size of dinner plates crashed against her shoulders. She fell to the ground.

Zero shouted something, but Alice couldn’t hear him over the whine of panic in her ears. All she could hear was the rumbling growl of the beast as it opened those wide jaws. 

I shouldn’t have come, she thought. I am going to die here. 

The purple glow of the wolf’s eyes met her own desperate gaze. Give up, give up, give up. There is no hope for you. A whisper, a hum, a chant. The demand to surrender echoed in her mind. But . . .

“I have to find my father!” Alice jammed the tiny pairing knife up, frantic and desperate. She felt it sink into flesh. The wolf yelped. It drew its head back, teeth glinting. Alice tried to pull the knife free, but it was stuck in the fur and muscle of the beast.

Then Zero was there. The flat of his blade slammed the side of the wolf’s head. It whined as it leapt away, leaving its prey behind. “Are you alright, Alice?”

“Y-yes. I think so.” 

He helped her to her feet. “That was the last one.” Zero frowned. “I am sorry that one got past me.”

Alice took a shaky breath. “It’s ok.” She took another, trying to chase the trembling from her limbs. “I lost my knife though. So . . . I hope there aren’t more coming.” At his confused expression, she explained about the pairing knife and how she’d stabbed the wolf. 

Zero’s lips twitched up in a small smile. “Good thinking to bring something. But you could have said you wanted a weapon.” He unhooked a hunting knife from his belt and handed it to her. “This will work a bit better than a pairing knife.”

She nodded and tucked it into her coat. “D-do you think they will come back?”

“Not tonight. Wolves prefer easier prey.” He inspected her. “Should I take you home now? We can look for your father again tomorrow.”

“No. I don’t want him out in the cold like this. Let’s keep looking.”

Zero nodded and pulled a magic crystal lantern from his pack. The pale blue glow encircled them, a tiny patch of light in the growing dark of the night. Then together, they continued on. 

The tracks led them to an old stone fence. It was crumbling and in disrepair, so low at points that even a child could step across it. “Your father crossed into Kingsley land,” Zero said softly.

“I’m not afraid of some old hermit.” Alice stepped over the ancient stonework. “Let’s go.”

After a moment, Zero nodded and stepped across. They’d barely gone another hundred paces before they froze, listening. In the distance, a howl shook the night. A sound so full of loneliness and hopelessness that it hurt to hear, a sound almost human in its depth of despair.

“What was that?” Alice looked around.

“I don’t know.” Zero paused, then stared to his left. “Who’s there?”

A laugh floated toward them from the darkness. “I am Edgar Bright. And I don’t need to ask your names. You are trespassing on the lord’s lands.”

As Zero held up the lantern to see better, a man stepped forward. He had eyes the color of soft jade and carefully styled brown hair. His narrow face was split by a large mischievous grin. “I could kill you both for the crime . . .”

“Come on, Edgar. You’re being scary again.” Another man followed the first, this one was a little taller, with a tired expression, rumpled clothes, and messy hair. “You two came here for the old man, right?”

“Yes,” Alice and Zero said at the same time. “Then come on.”

Part 2

[ran-orimoto]

[ There are certain decisions I will make after a while and, why not, even after more than a year since I will please my friends’ suggestions and requests only when the wind blows in the right direction. So yeah, here am I, still determined not to post MTTCI here, but giving a chance to an impromptu three-chaptered story I wrote before an exam, whose subject, ironically and because of a joke of Fate, has become the main topic of my bachelor thesis. So…Maybe I can consider it as a way to celebrate or maybe it’s just my brain admitting I kinda want to write a sequel to this because Miranda and Junpei are precious creatures of lightning scampering in my head 24/7. Let’s colour my weekend with this throwback, shall we?

Ah, Junpei and Izumi are in their early thirties (34 and 33). My bbies have grown up *sobs*. ]

| Three short acts of a Tempest|

•Chapter 1: The stillness before the Tempest•

Clouds painted with the pink of an early dawn gently fell on a tiny frame. They slowly shifted and went up and down, as if the sky had suddenly turned into the expanse of the sea and the kindest breeze was cradling the creature on peaceful waves. The oscillating movement went up and down, the lullaby of the sloshing joining the wind’s chant and changing the colour of the rosy water.

Green.

A penatrating green. Such a peculiar shade that was intense enough to make the world decelerate at once, sweetening everything going round and round with it, even the most powerful thunder that could disrupt the quiet of that picture.

“But you are still awake…No, no, sleep, principessina mia , sleep.”

Poetic images eventually got the consistency of reality: the sky and its tufts of clouds assumed the form of padded blankets warming a wicker crib decorated with ribbons; the swinging of the sea transformed itself in the caring caresses of big hands; the song of the wind melted in the humming sounds coming from a woman who was sitting in front of a mirror and was brushing her blonde hair.

And that green…That green was given a round shape, so little yet so able to hold any ray of light illuminating that bedroom. It was so easy for him to plunge in those orbs and enter an oneric universe.

Miranda.

“ The problem is that you shouldn’t be the one putting her to bed,” lzumi told Junpei with a smirk, after having approached him. “Whenever she sees you, she wants to be picked up by you.”

Junpei blinked at her with one of his funny expressions printed on his face.

“Do you think so?” He asked, his lips still protruted in a pleasant wonder.

“I don’t think. I can see it,” She chuckled while pointing at the chubby arms the baby would occasionally lift in his direction, especially whenever his chocolate met her shining mint.

She tried placing her silhouette in front of Junpei’s, action that resulted easy because of their almost matching heights. However, he unfortunately made her efforts vain by getting closer to the cradle again and widely grinning at its excitable host, who proceeded to happily agitate her limbs at his sight.

“Eh eh, you want to make your mother jelous, eh?” He joked, ignoring Izumi’s glare until she started patting her foot on the floor, her arms crossed in a playful annoyance.

Only in that way he understood she wanted him to let her deal with the family’s newest addition by her own, whereas he was supposed to slip away from the mother and daughter duo, -which, for Izumi’s joy, was what he immediately did, as obedient as ever-.

He brought himself to sit on an armchair in the corner of the bedroom, near to a large window extending from a side to the other of the wall and giving an elegant touch to that area thanks to cream-white curtains.

His tired spheres focused on Izumi for a while; on the tender words she was whispering to their second child, as impalpable as bursts of air blowing from an unknown dimension. Afterwards, though, he felt like turning to the view behind him, as if he had no right to assist to the interactions of a couple of angels,-because he couldn’t help describing his most precious treasures like that-, and he gasped at a panorama that looked darker than usual.

“It’s going to rain soon, isn’t it?” He said out of blue, feeling a familiar and bizarre tension beginning building up in every inch of his lumbering body.

“I think so,” Izumi’s voice cautiously crawled to him. “That’s what I heard from the forecasts. This is why the temperatures have dropped so drastically. As a precaution, I asked the guys to help me bring the chairs and tables inside.”

“It’s not fair, Cara. You could have asked me!” He straightened his back, abruptly parting from the comfort of the backrest. “You do know I could lift two tables at the same time, geez.”

Izumi didn’t reply him immediately. With a light pat on the tissue of the blankets, she firstly announced the success of her motherly task…Despite how loud Junpei could get without even realizing. She bended to give a kiss on the dormant blonde doll ’s forehead, then another one, -even more intangible than the previous one but still full of love-, on those puffy cheeks endearing her at their only touch.

Only after having tucked in their daughter for a last time, she gave attention to her pouting husband and passed her nimble fingers through his spiky strands.

“I know you can, but I wanted you to rest properly after that long flight,” She explained him, referring to the night before and reminding him of how exhausted he had looked when he finally arrived home.

Having returned from a special invitation at New York’s Metropolitan Theatre, he was also still suffering from a nagging jet lag he had been attempting to neglect for the whole day, no matter how much his temples were pulsing or his muscles were aching. Regrettably, his tenor job didn’t allow him to spend as much time as he wanted with his family, so he would have never allowed a silly jet lag to mess with his plans, especially now that they weren’t only three anymore.

“It was impossible not to have the most beautiful dreams after that delicious dinner you prepared me!” He laughed heartily, his chest bouncing at each giggle until he was forced to suffocate a yawn. “Oh c’mon, I slept until lunch time this morning!”

“It’s not like you have something to do. The kids are sleeping soundly now.”

Izumi jumped off his lap and reached out to offer him her hand: nobody ever believed him whenever he said his wife could pull him on his feet. Izumi had certainly developed a certain amount of strength during the years and she was so glad it had happened, since she had stood being the only one receiving help in certain occasions for so long. He needed and deserved to be taken care of too. He couldn’t and wasn’t supposed to be the only one doing that in her regards.

That’s why she couldn’t repress a satisfied snigger when he abandoned himself on their bed, throwing himself on the mattress without a complaint because she had happened to be right again.

She was always right: he was so tired he could have slept for the whole night and following morning like the baby next to her side of the bed.

Still, this time she might have been wrong.

The night to come was going to be longer than she expected for both.

• Chapter 2: The Tempest •

A burst. One of those seeming to be piercing the sky and making it break in thousand of pieces.

Despite that sense of restlessness filling his veins, Junpei had managed to close his eyes to plunge in another universe making him smile in bliss during his slumber.

Actually, he had got used to that feeling whenever a thunderstorm was about to arrive. He had stopped taking his pills for that anxiety provoked by that kind of weather, but it was still there, arising from his heart which would begin racing more and more at the tempest advancing. Unlike when he was on his early twenties, though, now he was a happily-married man and he was aware it would be enough for him to just roll closer to Izumi to feel much calmer.

Furthermore, there also was their new baby they had called after a character from Shakespeare’s “Tempest”, a theatre piece he had come to love after having starred in it for four times. Before the neonate was born, Izumi had never been that convinced about a similar idea, but now she couldn’t help repeating that name over and over again, even under the water jet of the shower.

Miranda. Their Miranda.

Having given her that name often felt like a step further he had decided to take while holding Izumi’s hand. It felt like if he was trying accepting tempests were a part of his spirit, of Izumi’s , of their family’s. The bond they had shared with Blitzmon and Fairymon as kids had created a perpetual connection between him and thunders, Izumi and winds, the life they had built together and the turmoils generated by the sky. There was no way to escape what they were, but they could only embrace it, just like their friends had done with their own elements. It was so hard for him, though: even now that he had reached his thirties and his maturity, he was aware his struggles had never mutated, unfortunately for him.

Actually, that night that burst roared in the firmament, the impression of hundred dragons landing on Venice with their massive weight. Glasses trembled like if they were prey of an earthquake, alarms started ringing in the whole neighbourhood, some shouts could be heard in the distance…But Junpei, who had been the first one waking up with a start even before that disaster unfolded, could only care about a scream seeming to be opening a hole in the stillness of the bedroom.

He hadn’t only heard it.

He had perceived it and he could have sworn that was what had really happened.

At that despaired wail, he didn’t hesitate before darting out of the bed and rush to the crib. In that blackness, it was so hard for him not to trip on the carpet and hurt his elbow against a wood feet, but he eventually managed to reach Miranda, surprisingly beating Izumi to it.

“ Che succede ?! What is happening?” She sat up, more than confused to be touching Junpei’s hip with a knee. She tried turning her abatjour on, but her hand remained in the air when she saw the glow of the emergency light.

“She’s got scared by that thunder,” He nervously clarified trying his best not to bite his lips. “That was so powerful I’m sure it has literally destroyed some car out there.”

Izumi hanged onto his thick arm, her palm descending and tracing the solid contours until she reached that protective hug’s upset host, her frantically-moving short legs, the hiccups of her round belly, her butterfly-shaped pacifier left dangling on it.

“Now it’s gone away, Miranda-Chan,” She massaged the baby’s tummy, but she was soon betrayed by another bolt, less scary than the first one she hadn’t fully heard yet still terrorizing to the little girl.

Meanwhile, Junpei could only rock her back and forth in silence, his breath growing heavier at each small fist or kick thrown at his chest.

“I’m going picking Kou up,” Izumi promptly announced. “I’m sure he’s so frightened too. I’ll take him here.”

Thus, her hasty steps left him and Miranda alone, in that room that would take life with a spectral white at every lightning hurled against the ground. It was in those brief, ghostly intervals that he could frown at the poor baby’s reaction: during the first time he spotted her eyes forcefully shut; during the second one he was able to give a glance at her trembling wince of terror; during the third one he could clearly see the lucid tears cascading on those features he loved so much.

It was precisely because he couldn’t stand the image of those green stones throbbing of water, that he hugged her impulsively when the nth thunder prepared its spotlight moment. Holding her against his broad shoulder and feeling the shirt of his pajama wetting, he waited for the next rumble to threaten the room, the house, Venice, the whole world to collapse.

“It’s o-okay,” He reassured her in that nightmare, his hand pressing on her head and the Sun shining in her hair; his eyes closing and showing him flashes of a stout kid crouched on a freezing floor, covering his ears and yelling at the nothingness. “It’s-It’s really okay, Miranda-Chan. ”

Now that he thought about it, that’s what had always been there in the far past, whenever his fear struck back : the nothingness .

“La mia Mimì.”

The emptiness left behind his parents’ long absences. The void of each room of such a big house like his family’s was. He could recall so clearly how areas without people animating them would reverberate with such scary noises during grey days.

“La mia dolce Mimì.”

Who knew if his fear of thunders had never gone away because nobody had ever been by his side in his worst moments, protecting that child he used to be from a shattering sky.

“La mia dolcissima Mimì.”

Instead, he…He…

…

Another explosion got near to destroying the dome of those stars shimmering out there. The entire chapel risked to fall and cover the whole Venice with a thud.

Yet, Miranda’s crying didn’t increase. Indeed, he felt the baby stirring and making his neck itch with one of her strands. The pacifier’s chain jingled as she moved her head from a side to the other, probably blinking too in the process.

He would have welcomed her in the hollow of his arms again, if she hadn’t attached herself to his shoulder, a content sigh pushing her chin onto the soft surface. Judging from the way her grip was growing weaker and weaker, he understood she was miracolously falling asleep in his presence.

After some seconds, Izumi returned into the room bringing along a stream of warm light.

“ Torcia !”

In truth, she hadn’t been the one aiming it at Junpei. The one who was playing with that torch was a two-year-old sturdy kid sporting a nest of dark blonde hair on his head. His grinning, rotund face and his brown irises got visible only when he made the object spin in his direction, the reason why Junpei and Izumi had bought a model that wasn’t dangerous for kids’ eyes.

“Here are we,” Izumi chuckled, looking at the toddler she was carrying. “My baby Kouricino is not afraid of thunders.”

“No no!”

She lowered the boy on the floor, so he could run to his father. For Izumi’s delight, when she accidentally lied against the wall, right in that spot where the light switch was, their bedroom found back its colours.

Her joy dimmed rapidly, though, since her attention was soon drawn by the silence of the environment.

“Has she…?”

Junpei winked at her while he let Kou fiddle with his wristwatch he had forgot to remove before going to bed.

“Yes, she has. Somehow.”

Even if he knew Izumi wanted to be the one placing Miranda back into her crib, he took the initiative under Kou’s curious gaze. It was only when the baby dove back in her serene clouds, that he acknowledged he was shaking like a leaf.

“What is it?”

“Hm, nothing that important.”

• Chapter 3: What remains after a Tempest •

{Mirandus, miranda, mirandum }

He had read somewhere Miranda derived from some latin word meaning worthy of admiration, admirable, beautiful, and even if he really didn’t know anything about that ancient language, -and didn’t really intend to ever study it-, he couldn’t deny a kernel of truth was present in those dead voices from centuries and centuries before.

The proof had been before his eyes for four months and it was so evident to him, whether green seabeds greeted him from inside the display of a phone or they innocently crawled to him until only few inches parted him from them.

Their Miranda was their second miracle, another wedge of Sun he loved staring at without fearing his eyes would begin burning. If something was supposed to make him burst into flames sooner or later, it would probably be his love for her.

He had understood that from the first time he had seen her and had held her, showing more experience while dealing with the neonate than when Kou was born. Before that creature looking so ethereal to his perception, a being of light and fire, his eyes had covered themselves with lucid and clear glass reflecting the kaleidoscope of thousand colourful skies.

And a thought had passed through his mind, as fleeting as a thunder disappearing in a dust of ash after having released its powers on earth.

…

…

“ Maybe ,” He had muttered, slowly waking up from a dream about heavens and angels.

Izumi had found the strength to stretch her neck, trying to sit up despite the exhaustion she was still experiencing on her energies due to the labour.

“ Maybe?”

“Maybe you’re right,” He had told her slowly, looking so dazed as if he had just returned from a trip onto the Moon. Actually, with that long coat he had refused, -or forgot-, to put off, with those misty glasses slipping on the bridge of his nose and being about to fall off it, with that hair standing on end as if he had got electrocuted, he could have given the impression of an accidental traveller; one who had just been in the most unrealistic place of the universe. “ Miranda isn’t the right name for her.”

“Ah no?” She had answered him, not managing to hide a note of disappointment.

“No, because she’s blonde like you and Kou, she’s already smiling, she…She has got the beauty of uncountable sunny days in her.”

He would have never forgot the silence that had followed his words, Izumi’s perplexity and the resounding laughter that had arisen from it.

“ Junpei, come back onto Earth and start speaking like a normal person. Thank you.” She had attempted to tease him but had smiled when he couldn’t keep a wince from warping his puffy cheeks. “ And what would you call her? Let’s hear ”.

…

…

Yes, their Miranda was a breathtaking spectacle. There was no way his spheres could have ever stopped contemplating her frame without someone forcing him to do that. She was a miniature Izumi and she was meant to endear him from day to night.

Yet, that early morning he wasn’t lying by Miranda’s side. Izumi had placed her between them and next to Kou after having woken up to drink a glass of water, but in their bed no one else but Izumi was encircling the baby’s body with an arm.

He was…On the balcony, looking down at the isolated road of their quiet neighbourhood and inhaling in the fresh air of that dawn, in its fresh dew, in that familiar smell of rain.

La quiete dopo la tempesta .

The quiet after the tempest.

So they say, at least, but the truth was that his agitation had never melted below the first rays of the rising Sun, and it wasn’t just because the sky was still painted with dark aquarelles.

The chords of his heart were still being pulled like the strings of a violin in an endless crescendo, intensifying whenever his pupils slid onto his hands; onto those palms shaking and spasming at the mere surfacing of certain memories in his mind.

Gritting his teeth, he clenched them in fists, but that steel never stopped trembling for his utter frustration.

“Hey.”

Izumi’s sudden greeting startled him, but his tense shoulders predictably sagged under her touch.

“ Buongiorno ,” He cracked a warm smile on which she would have liked to plant a kiss.

Still, pensive, he turned to the sill and remembered about that ritual of theirs only when he felt the chilly material under his fingers. He turned again and ignoring Izumi’s doubtful expression, he complied to her wish.

When their lips parted, Izumi put a index on hers, as if she could feel that nervousness of his kiss again and could analyze it with more attention.

“Sorry, I was too focused on searching for that car,” He justified himself with hesitation, approaching the railing once more. “You know, that car from yesterday.”

“That car from yesterday,” She repeated, knowing well there had never been a car destroyed by a thunder. There were not so many cars in Venice and the zone they were living in was one where they weren’t even allowed. It had just been a part of one of his exaggerated scenarios, those he liked coming up with now and then to add spice to conversations with others.

Nevertheless, she wasn’t going to underline he was lying. Indeed, she intended to ride his excuse to her advantage, in order to, hopefully, figure out what was going on with his weird behaviour. In reality, she had a vague idea about what was upsetting him so much, but she needed to hear what was troubling him from his own words.

She observed him pretending to be really searching for something like some silly pirate and got closer to him.

“Who knows if they have already removed it from the road,” He mumbled in the middle of those theatrical movements taking his body from left to right…To that right where she was waiting for him with a smug smirk.

Ma che cavolo, Junpei, She couldn’t keep herself from shouting internally, pretty exasperated yet also affectionate in front of those puzzled irises. His eyes were also conveying a little amount of fear, that kind of fear you can read on kids being spotted making trouble. We have been husband and wife for years and you still prefer bottling up your concerns to sharing them with me!

“Are you searching for that car from yesterday, then?”

“Uh yes, yes, that one”.

“That car…You said it had been hit by a thunder?”

She felt slightly guilty about having cut to the chase so quickly, but his frown was so eloquent to her. She was right again. And yet, it wasn’t still enough. At all.

“Can you tell me what’s the matter?” To her ears, she had sounded a bit stern in that question of hers, so peremptory, but she wanted to help him and she was aware it was the only way to get a satisfying result.

Actually, Junpei tried opening up after having looked down at his socks.

“The problem is…”

“Yes?”

“The problem is that I can’t be the kind of parent I want to be,” His eyebrows curved downwards as Izumi sighed, her hands resting on her hips until she managed to find a proper answer. “And I’m…I’m not speaking about that again. No. We have already discussed about it and I have understood I can be a good father and husband even if I can’t be with you all as much as I would like to be. It’s just that…It’s just that…”

He bit his tongue instinctively, stopping for some seconds to absorb that warmth coming from Izumi’s presence. He might still be the type of person not loving talking about his most inner trouble, but he had got used to feeling more comfortable about doing that, especially when she was next to him, giving him confidence. His features ceased their severity at her caring eyes, his sweetness and awkwardness finally showing up.

“It’s just that when Miranda was crying because of the thunderstorm, I thought about when I was a child and I was scared. Back then, I had to cope with my fright all alone. My parents didn’t even know I was scared of thunders. Instead…”

“Instead, you know she was yesterday, even if she’s just a baby and it’s normal that she cries because of loud noises. Don’t forget that.”

“No,” He shook his head with firmness, diverting his orbs from her reassuring ones. The view of the sky darknening like it had happened the day before helped him remember the way he was so certain he hadn’t just heard the little girl crying. “Don’t ask me why, but I’m sure she is afraid of them. Maybe it’s because I know what it feels like to be afraid of thunders. But, whatever, what I want to say is that I told myself I want to protect her from frightening tempests whenever I’m here.”

“But…?” She pressed gently, concealing the tenderness that heart-to-heart was instilling in her body. She knew where he was going to land but, again, she was aware that river had to be freed by him.

Thus, that was what it happened. Water finally flew down its bed.

“But I stupidly remembered I’m still afraid of thunders as if I had ever forgot, in the first place. I was…Shaking along with her.”

And she hugged him all of a sudden, an embrace he didn’t exchange immediately due to the fair confusion.

“You managed to calm her last night and she even fell asleep despite anything. Junpei, you’re really an idiot, worrying about this stuff…You’re really the most wonderful idiot out there.” She laughed in his ears with a row of whispers, too taken aback by such fluttering emotions the man was still able to make her go through.

“Oh, don’t I know?” He huffed playfully, the tresses of her golden bob flying along with those puffs. “I proposed to call our daughter Miranda because of Shakespeare and now we have discovered she’s terrorized of thunderstorms.”

“I will never regret having called her Miranda,” Izumi pulled away from his chest. She pronounced that statement with restored strictness, one that made him chuckle, though.

“Oh, but I do.”

Freed from his thick arms, now it was her turn to lose herself in the immensity of that dark sea the sky was that morning. It was so similar to the expanse that had roared the exact day they had got married, or during the night Koujirou was born or, again, during the one Miranda was too: powerful winds exploding in a defeaning riot of colours, defeaning thunders scratching the sky.

Blitzmon and Fairymon’s ways to congratulate with them during those occasions.

…

…

“And what would you call her? Let’s hear.”

“I don’t know…Give me some minutes to think and I’ll tell you. I’ll think about a name you can like.”

“Because, you’re right, I don’t like Miranda as a name,” She had started giggling not only because he was wearing the most bizarre expression as he concentrated in his task.

“There’s Violetta. You love colours, indeed, you love lillac. Kou likes it as well and I do too. I wouldn’t have liked your idea of painting our kitchen of that shade, otherwise…I mean, it’s a colour and who doesn’t like colours? I might not be able to see the colours of the wind like you two do, but…So, what do you think, eh? Violetta is also the main character of “La Traviata”.

Still holding and engulfing the neonate with an arm, he had reached out with the other and had let their hands intersect. That had been the moment she had felt his blood pumping against her skin with an unimaginable speed and, most of all, an incredible strength. She had stared at the blonde tuft he had placed near to his chest, with one of her ears so close to his heart she had wondered how it had been possible she hadn’t begun crying, scared of the power residing in his soul.

But ,then, she had seen it and she had boggled: a lightning projecting its white glow on the window behind them, undisturbed and noticed by many, except by the man and the baby. Junpei had just seemed to have grown tense for an instant but his arm had never stopped hugging their daughter, protective and soft at the same time; his eyes had never ceased plunging in that picture of miracles.

…

…

“It does bug me, though,” Junpei took her back onto Earth with his upset voice. “I might have managed to calm her down, like you have said, but how did I do that?”

“Why do you think I know?” She had marched in his direction but didn’t look at him.

“No…I don’t really think you know, but maybe I did do something you might know about. Some movement you perform when they cry or-“

“Or you’re just magical,” She shrugged, giving him a wink before opening the door of the balcony to return inside.

“What? Oh c’mon. I’m serious. I want to give my best for our princess.”

“Well? What is the news here? Have you forgot you wanted to be a magician when we were kids? Those tissues you always carry in your pockets must be having some effects after ages,” She joked and, like that, she disappeared in their bedroom with another wave of laughters.

But not before having demanded a proper kiss.

[asmrtist-brainrot]

Party Stalling

David and Asher don't really seem like the bachelor party types?

More like wedding party.

So here's a drabble I thought would be funny, though it's not too good.

Also just made a couple of OCs... Their names are also kind of funny - I'm sure you can guess what their names are inspired by.

Reader is Angel + Gender Neutral

~ Dari

"Come on Jack." Mirin scolded from their spot next to him behind the bar, scowling in annoyance.

It wasn't the first time he hit on a customer, wasn't the first time he'd gotten pissed at a rejection. Usually he wasn't such a shithead and good against assholes, but when it came to flirting - it was weird and gross how the switch flipped.

"Shut up, it's gonna be good."

Jack was also a petty fuck and it made Mirin wish everyday that Marguerite was behind the counter to control her brother instead of currently bouncing the door. From the other side of the bar, their third mixologist, Gin just shook his head and continued to serve a handsome man with fake horns and his cuddly partner.

They glance at the person he'd flirted with.

Eyes lidded and dreamy, sobering somewhat at the look on their coworker's face. Soft cheeks and body wrapped in nice clothes, slightly mussed and flushed from the dancing.

You were cute.

Mirin felt quite irritated as you were tipping them and he swooped in to be pain in the ass.

Not to mention you brought up being engaged.

"Sorry," The asshole's smile was nearly shit-eating as he spoke "but you're being too rowdy and I'm going to have to ask you to leave, you're disturbing the other patrons."

You blinked, once then twice, then frowning - though for just a second before a thought rolled over you.

The picture of mischief.

A glimmer in your eyes and smile on your lips that made them a little wary.

"Okay," You shrugged and slid the 20 towards Mirin regardless as you almost mourningly said "just lemme grab my fiancee and friends."

Mirin eyed the ring on your left hand in amusement, but the itch of irritation came instead. They slapped Jack's hand from grabbing their tip - tucking it into the breast pocket of their work polo.

You got down from the bar seat.

"Martin's gonna be pissed you lost their business." They warned him, starting to make a long island.

Their cheeks warmed at the pretty woman that ordered, she awkwardly tucked a stand of hair behind her ear. Shyly leaning towards them when she was served.

"I'll deal with him." Jack watched you leave with a satisfied smirk, only to pale.

Mirin's curiosity was enough for them to look at what he was balking at and gaped at wall of a man. He was sitting down with a group of men dressed somewhat similarly to him - leather jackets and jeans. But as he rose, he towered over the other party goers. You approached him without fear though, arms sliding around his neck.

His expression is fond but hardened briefly as Mirin assumed that you explained what just happened.

They could almost hear Jack's teeth chattering in his head, it's enough to make them snort as the man glared in the direction of the bar. They swore the guy was going to shit bricks.

But the expression fell away instead to mirth when he looked back down at you. He nodded before glancing over to the DJ stand and waving his hand.

This DJ, some guy named Hudson, was hired on behalf of a wedding party that someone was throwing.

Mirin choked on a cackle at the realization.

Hudson nodded at David and the music screeched to a stop and he got on the mic, "Sorry party people but it looks like the party of David and Angel Shaw are moving out. I was hired by them so I gotta go too."

Other patrons booed and Gin snorted a laugh from next to Jack, as he mockingly cracked, "You'll handle it, yeah?"

"Oh, sounds like that's our cue Freelancer," The horned man sighed before hopping to his feet and purred "I'm sure the Solaires have some other place we can be a... Public disturbance in."

"Shame," His partner mumbled, handing Gin what seemed to be a crisp 10 "I liked this place."

Jack sputtered, looking around in slight panic.

The group the man was sitting with stood as well, gathering their coats and seemingly joined by their own companions. But then another small troupe of well dressed individuals, and a set of two other couples.

"David, where are we going from here?" One of his compatriots asked, voice heavy in a Bronx-type accent. Frowning a bit as he draped his arm around the hips of presumably his partner.

"Vincent, Sam, any ideas?" The tall man, David, looked over at the second group, who were pressed and dressed in their Sunday best.

One nodded towards the door and hummed in a southern drawl, "Fred brought up a good place further up on Teakettle, they got good food too. Maybe we give Hudson a break before he restarts the party."

"I know that place!" Another rather big man piped with a grin "Dames and I found it while on a date."

"Well, what're we waiting for?" Another piped energetically, who Mirin recognized as Asher - as he ordered everyone a round of shots at the beginning of the night. "Let's get going!"

There was collective noises of agreement as the party of Shaw started to collect their belongings, the music began again only on a playlist as another employee scrambled to fill the air. Mirin's sides split from their giggling at Jack's horrified expression, Gin leaning over the bar and snickering at the turn of events with glee.

"I can't wait to tell Martin about this."

Jack sputtered, completely and utterly dumbfounded as to what just occurred.

Mirin was disappointed to see the pretty girl leave too, joining up with another young woman and a man

They pouted, shuffling to clean the last of her drink.

It took them a second to realize that there was scrawl on the napkin, glittery blue ink smeared by the moisture of the cold drink - tucked under the tip.

They smiled.

"Text me? XXX-XXX-XXXX

- Kelsey"

[sparkledfirecracker]

I posted 1,756 times in 2022

That's 788 more posts than 2021!

144 posts created (8%)

1,612 posts reblogged (92%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@wayward-blonde

@buckysteveloki-me

@chase-your-dreams-away

@lilacevans

@nerdzzone

I tagged 1,729 of my posts in 2022

Only 2% of my posts had no tags

#chris evans - 883 posts

#evansedit - 421 posts

#cevansedit - 339 posts

#chrisevansedit - 201 posts

#cevans - 187 posts

#lilo asked - 164 posts

#ari levinson - 152 posts

#steve rogers - 119 posts

#lloyd hansen - 116 posts

#andy barber - 114 posts

Longest Tag: 65 characters

#why has no one talked about the grey chin looking like a ballsack

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

Fore!Play

Pairing: Ransom Drysdale x female reader Rating: Explicit Summary: Another run-in with Ransom on the green Word count: 2,481

Warnings: 18+ only, explicit language, explicit sexual content, oral (m receiving), blowjob, public sex?

A/N: 18+ only. Minors DNI!!! Shoutout to @ghotifishreads for the fic title after a commented reblog on the previous part. Golfing will never be the same again. This is not beta-read, all mistakes are my own. If I missed any of the warnings, feel free to let me know. 

I do not consent to have my works copied, reposted or translated on any other platform. Reposts on any given platform have been posted without my permission or consent. 

BY CLICKING ON KEEP READING YOU AGREE TO BE 18+ OR OVER!!

Another groan as the seven iron skyrocketed another lump of grass. Much to your annoyance, it hadn’t been the first time today, it had been the millionth time. Remembering the words of your mother, once you get the hang of it, it will be exciting.

That day still had to come, the only thing that had been exciting that had happened so far was being fingered on the green. Though as fun as it was it had felt like a mirage. Having him disappear without another trace. 

Months had passed and you hadn’t seen him after that morning. It might have been that you had changed up your time slot. Avoiding all and any awkward encounters that might happen because of it.

Your friend Claire had chatted about him when you had pointed him out on one occasion. According to her Ransom Drysdale was a man who only took what he claimed was his. She had slept with him, but he wasn’t one to settle down and ask your hand in marriage material. He’d be the forever single bachelor, living his best frat boy lifestyle. 

Your experience had felt different, but it wasn't one you wanted to repeat. Having avoided your regular hours and changed the time of day had been a nice welcome. The quiet hours when the sun was slowly setting instead of rising. 

Here you stood like any other day standing on the green, frustrated with your ability to hit a ball straight. Trying to get in some practice for the Easter club cup. With a heavy sigh, you took the position, rocking your hips to see if the position was right and comfortable. Short movements of your wrist moving the iron in hand to see if it lined up for the aimed hit. 

With the right feel, you lifted the club, drew it back, and focused on the ball. With force the club fell, you could feel that this would be the money shot of the day. Your inner Phil Mickelson brought out the cheer inside. The clubhead collided with the ball sending it off into the air. Immediately setting course in the hit slice. 

“FORE!” You yelled out loudly as you watched the neon-colored ball head in the direction of another player. 

You had expected the man in question to dive down and shelter his head from potential impact. Instead, he looked up and reached out his hand to catch the ball. The distance had been quite far, but the infamous grin wasn’t one you had easily forgotten. 

For a split second, your heart stopped at the slicked hair and clean-shaven face. Not having encountered Ransom in such a long time. The wide grin was just as smug as he held up the ball in his hand.

Quickly giving him a polite wave as you scurried across the field. Cursing under your breath reminding yourself of why you should've taken a golf cart. Your legs simply wouldn’t be quick enough to run away from the man.

You managed to get on to the next hole without having him following you. Having carried on your game, forgetting the brief encounter with Ransom as you butchered your way across the course. 

Having reached the putting green, calculated your next move. Crouched down behind the ball with your putter in hand you took a note of how to hole the ball. 

“Hello tee, missed seeing you around.” You jumped at the scare of his voice. Your back straightened at the tensity of his greeting, refusing to look back at the man. “You’re going to pretend we’re strangers when I was kind enough to help you out last time you butchered the course.”

“Fuck off Ransom.”

“That’s not very polite to greet someone who’s being nice and returning your expensive golf ball, now is it?”

It made you look over your shoulder, watching him smirk as if he knew that would give him a reaction. Holding up your neon-colored ball he wiggled it between his fingers. 

You reached forward to grab it, but he held it up above his head. 

“Keep it.” You huffed, turning back and taking a few steps towards your aligned ball. 

“Draw the claws back kitten, because I’m not here to please your pussy. I’m genuinely just here to give you your ball back. The ball almost smashed my head. Remember?” 

“So dramatic. Would’ve been such a shame to see that face ruined.” You rolled your eyes at his comment. 

“Anyway, Linda told me your mother has paired us up for the Easter cup. Being an experienced golfer and all.” You could hear the smug tone of his voice, already feeling superior to your clumsy game. 

“I’m only looking for one bunny this Easter, Ransom, and it comes with batteries.” You huffed as you took another swing at the ball on the floor. The frustration must’ve done something as the golf ball spun through the air and over the small river bend. 

“Is that an invitation?”

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403 notes - Posted April 17, 2022

#4

Cookies & Cream

Summary: After running out of cookies, you bought Ransom some new ones.

Pairing: Ransom Drysdale x female reader

Words: 1296

Warnings: 18+ only, explicit content, explicit language, female receiving, fingering, penetrative sex, dirty talk. - if I forgot any, feel free to let me know.

A/N: MINORS DO NOT INTERACT! Got inspired by a tiktok video of a woman filling up the sweetes/candy drawer. Not my best work, but at least I enjoyed writing it. This is not beta read and only lightly proofread - all mistakes are my own.

Do not repost, translate or copy my work without my explicit permission. Reblogs, likes, comments or silent reading are all welcomed, but most of all enjoy!

By clicking ‘keep reading’, you agree to be 18 years or older!!!!

The shopping bag felt heavy in your hand while you walked through the front door. Getting rid of your drenched coat and shoes. Making your way through the modern mansion you were greeted by a comforting silence. Ransom hopefully had found the focus to work on his book.

You navigated your way through the darkness of the late autumnal afternoon hours. Finding a light source hitting the button. Placing the shopping bags on the counter. Your jeans uncomfortably sticking to your legs from getting damp from the pouring rain. Getting rid of the denim and kicking it aside on the heated kitchen tiles.

A confident thought rose that Ransom might not have noticed that you had ran out of cookies. The best source of inspiration, as he would say. You rolled your eyes thinking about it. You could think of one or two ways that had inspired him in the past, all involving your body.

Stuffing away all the shopping, you had decided to refill the draw of cookies and sweets. Filling up a container with your favourite sour pumpkins. Eating a few before you filled up the entire container, closing the lid and putting it back into place. Grabbing the next empty one and repeating the process.

The last four containers were reserved for Ransom’s precious cookies. Two for his beloved regular kind, the other two with the crème filled versions. One biscoff flavoured, the other vanilla. You smiled as you put them back in place.

You prepared the coffee piston, pushing down the coffee tamper on the freshly ground coffee. Placing the piston in place, you pressed the start button. Adding a piece of white biscoff flavoured chocolate, watching it melt as the coffee started pouring. As you waited you took a bite of the chocolate. It wasn’t as amazing as Ransom claimed it to be, but at least it reminded you of him.

When the cup was filled with the finest coffee, ruined by the chocolate inside, you grabbed a new pack of cookies and headed for the floating stairs. With each step the huffed groans of frustration became clearer. The aggressive tap of fingers hitting the keyboard almost made you giggle.

As soon as you peaked through the partially cracked open door, your heart ached. Ransom looked distraught and beyond frustrated. His hair all messed up, looking like he plucked it and ran his hand through the strands on numerous occasions.

“Are you going to keep staring?” He scoffed, aware of you standing outside his office.

“Can I interest you in a coffee and cookie break?” You asked, watching his eyes light up and lifting his head to meet your presence.

You walked towards him, placing the mug beside him. A silent question directed at him as your eyes glanced between him and the desk. He pushed off the edge, creating minimal space for you to slide in between.

The side of the mahogany wood pressing against your ass while you opened the pack of cookies. You took one out and Ransom moved forward, your knee raised pressing against his pants. His length was hard and throbbing against your knee.

See the full post

404 notes - Posted October 16, 2022

#3

Ari's showing up to your practice to beg you to come with him. And he'll do anything to convince you.

"Come for me, baby," Ari whispers, sucking hard on your clit. You arch off the table, gripping the crinkly paper on it, "I think you need to give me one more. Be a good girl and say yes."

MINAAAAAAAAAA!!!!! HOW DARE YOU ATTACK ME LIKE THIS.

Warnings: explicit language, explicit sexual content, oral (f receiving), fingering, hint at edging, hint at squirting, praise - if I missed any let me know.

Not beta read, all mistakes are my own. Around 450 words.

By clicking keep reading, you agree to be 18 years or older!!

“Yes, please.” Pleas fell from your lips, wanting the agony of the edging torture to be over.

“Good girl.” He praised, scissoring his fingers inside your walls. His lips barely having left your clit, the whisper adding to the sensational built of the coil in your stomach.

Ari’s surprise visits always were of an inconvenience and you probably had agreed to something stupid once again. Past visits had included joining a cooking class, skydiving, tantric couple massages, paintball with his friends (with you running around as the target) and pottery classes.

Your back arched of the table and your head dropped back. Both of your hands nestled on top of his head. Your fingers tugging at the roots of his hair with each delightful suck and lick.

His tongue teasing your pussy while his fingers actively pumped and curled inside you. The tip of his nose nudged your clit with a steady rhythm. If Ari Levinson knew one thing in life, it was how to pleasure a woman and make her see stars in every known universe.

The tremble of your legs starting as he kept building up your orgasm. A layered complexity, but one he had precisely measured and was in full control off. Your body reacted to him like it was his own. A blessing and a curse.

“So good.” You panted, “so close.”

A spur on to keep Ari going and letting him know you were almost there. With a flick of his wrist, he rubbed your clit while curling his large fingers inside you. Hovering over your squirming body, pushing down on your lower belly with his free hand.

He loved watching you break for him, around his cock or around his fingers. There was no preference to him as long as you gave him what he wanted.

“Yes, yes, yes. It will always be yes.” You screamed out, cumming all over his hand. Soaking the crinkled paper as he worked hard to extract every last drop from you. Working you through your high as your muscles relaxed again from the intensity.

“You better be home at 17:00 future Mrs. Levinson. Or I’ll be forced to have you agree to another wish of mine.” Ari smiled down at you, kissing your lips and sliding fingers out of your cunt.

“Wait. What?” You hoisted yourself onto your elbows.

“I’ll see you later, future Mrs. Levinson. So we can continue practicing the cervical exam for our honeymoon.” He brought his fingers to his lips, licking them clean, quickly glancing into the mirror before giving you a wink and walking out.

“Did I just agree to getting married?” Dumbfounded you let yourself fall back on to the table, just laying there for a second staring at the ceiling. When you slowly started to smile.

487 notes - Posted October 23, 2022

#2

Talk To Me

Pairing: Mob!Curtis Everett x Female Reader

Rating: Explicit

Summary: Your neighbours' activities get you in trouble.

Word count: 17,029

Warnings: dark content, 18+ ONLY, explicit language, explicit sexual content, non-con, rape, torture methods: waterboarding & song playing on repeat, trauma, unprotected sex, fingering, blowjob, some light jaw grabbing, alcohol consumption, rough sex, edging, Sir kink, dom/sub dynamic, light BDSM elements, claiming, possessive nature, spanking, explosion, dirty/teasing talk, mention /witnessing drug dealing, witnessing a murder, gun use, gun violence, chased by a murderer.

A/N: MINORS DNI!!! Do not interact with this story if you’re uncomfortable with any of the given warnings. Massive shout out to @wakingbeauty, this fic would’ve never seen the light of day if it hadn’t been for your continuous support and persistence. Thank you @dreamlessinparis​ for beta’ing this monster for me. Both deserve an applause for helping along the process of meltdowns and panic attacks rewriting this. I truly appreciate the amount of work you’ve put into this. Any and all mistakes are my own. Sorry if you’ve read parts of this story before, I took this down for personal reasons months ago.

The beautiful divider is as always by the lovely @firefly-graphics​

I do not consent to have my works copied, reposted or translated on any other platform. Reposts on any given platforms have been posted without my permission or consent. 

BY CLICKING KEEP READING YOU AGREE TO BE 18+ OR OVER!!!

Gif by @lilacevans

You’d been warned about your neighbour, Curtis Everett. You’d never imagined him becoming a friend the day you moved in next door. Friends, that is how it all started for you. You became companions over time, almost inseparable. Starting with regular movie nights, after you had mentioned never having seen Goodfellas. 

 He’d always vocalised his interest, his pure and honest emotions were something you could appreciate. They always felt so raw and he always seemed so sure of them. 

Here you were about to knock on his door for yet another movie night. One of your favourites and over time it became a weekly tradition. You were surprised to find the door unlocked and you stepped inside.

 “Curtis?” You called out, closing the door behind you.

 “Kitchen.” He yelled back. “Fuck. Shit!” You giggled, hearing metal fall to the floor followed by a string of swear words. You couldn’t help but snort out a laugh when you turned the corner, walking into his open layout kitchen. You unlocked your phone and took a picture of the complete mess you found Curtis in.

 “Call the newspaper, because Mr Everett finally figured out how to use his stove instead of ordering in.”

 “Oh shut it, Duchess.” He huffed, making you smile at the nickname he’d given you since the day you moved in. 

 “Need a hand?”

 “Nope. I need you to sit your pretty little ass down.”

 “Pretty little ass huh? Have you been checking it out?”

 “It’s no secret I have.” You noticed the uneasy shift in his body posture. “Please, pour yourself a glass of wine.”

 “I can certainly do that.” You spoke, reaching for the rack holding the wine glasses. Pulling two out and pouring you both a glass of red. “Are you sure you don’t need a hand?”

 “Positive. Please, sit down and let me struggle on my own, thank you.” 

 Laughing at his frustrated remark you took the filled glasses into the living room. Settling yourself on the large couch that always felt like a nice soft marshmallow mattress to doze off on.

 “So what are we watching tonight?” You asked.

 “Thought I might let you beat me at monopoly again.”

 “SERIOUSLY?” You chirped, shooting up from your position. Looking back at him.

 “Yes, seriously.” 

 “Hurry up, I’m excited to see you sulk and pout for the rest of the night.”

See the full post

535 notes - Posted June 8, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

One Night Lasts Forever

One Night Lasts Forever

Pairing: Lloyd Hansen x female reader

Rating: Explicit

Summary: What was supposed to be a routine job ended up in your biggest nightmare.

Words: 2125

Warnings: dark content, 18+ only, explicit sexual content, explicit language, fingering, anal by finger, dub-con, non-con, BDSM elements, restraints, spanking, mention and use of alcohol, mention of forging documents, unprotective sex, choking, ragdoll army, overstimulation, crying from pleasure. To be sure: degrading, sociopath, humiliation and kidnapping. If I missed any, please feel free to let me know

A/N: @wakingbeauty​ here is your requested idea, hopefully, you like the end result. This is not beta’d, all mistake are my own. Happy birthday to our new villain! Enjoy reading, all comments, reblogs and likes are welcome - prefer to ghost read, no problem, have fun. LaurentGroup is taken from the book, there are mild character/language spoilers.

Divider by the ever so lovely and beautiful @firefly-graphics​

I do not consent to have my works copied, reposted or translated on any other platform. Reposts on any given platforms have been posted without my permission or consent.

BY CLICKING KEEP READING YOU AGREE TO BE 18+ OR OVER!!!

Gif by @lilacevans found in this post here

With your head buzzing from the alcohol you wandered the streets of the German city of Hamburg. Suzanne had taken you out to dinner after you had curated and assessed the possessed paintings of LaurentGroup. Forging the documents and making sure everything was in order for shipment elsewhere. 

You had learned quickly not to ask questions but would not complain about the perks and the pay. Little had you known you’d end up locked and chained in a dark room. Writhing on a mattress, as the metal shackles around your ankles would rattle. 

You greeted the doorman of the hotel and gave the receptionist a wave as you made your way toward the bar. A nightcap wouldn’t hurt anyone, but your own head in the morning. 

“The usual Miss Sunshine?” The bartender asked and placed a few sweet olives and assorted nuts on the bar. 

Nodding your confirmation as you took a seat on the barstool. Taking a few nuts between your fingers, smiling at the given nickname and it probably all was due to your yellow accented dress. The hotel was part of LaurentGroup and Suzette always ensured you were taken care of for every visit.

Looking over your shoulder you observed the thinned-out crowd. Two men still conversing in a pair of seats. You made eye contact with one of them, returning your gaze with a lopsided smirk. There was something entrancing about his presence. Darkness beckoned surrounded by charisma. His moustache and hair were groomed to perfection not a single hair out of place. 

It hadn’t been long until the man had introduced himself. Lloyd Hansen introduced himself as a freelance legal entrepreneur for LaurentGroup. A common ground since both of you indirectly worked for the company. Accepting another drink since the conversation seemed to flow nicely with no worries on your mind. 

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1,484 notes - Posted July 22, 2022

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[5sosfanfictioncatalogue]

Fic Titles That Start With T Masterlist

take my hand, now and forever (don’t ever let go) - @sup3rbloom (haveufoundwhaturlookingfor) calum/ashton T, 9k

Summary: Ashton is a single parent who’s not had good luck with dating ever since his son was brought into his life. Then, he meets Calum, who’s the first guy who’s ever shown interest in him and his son.

takeoffs and landings (ao3) - galacticsugar luke/ashton T, 7k

Summary: It’s been Monday for an entire week. This might sound like an exaggeration. Like something Ashton would say to Calum after a long day at work. But it’s really just Ashton’s life right now.

***

a time loop soulmate au.

tell me what your worst fantasies are (i bet they look a lot like mine) (ao3) - orphan_account ot4 N/R, 8k

Summary: :+: or where Luke has twisted fantasies and the boys have twisted minds:+:

Tell Me Where You’re Hiding Your Voodoo Doughnut (ao3) - galacticsugar, petalrock luke/calum T, 14k

Summary: This is definitely not allowed. The housing contract that Calum signed many moons ago states it very clearly. Pets of any kind are not permitted in the dorms, with the exception of approved service animals. But the terrible people that make these rules don’t understand.

The Bass Player (ao3) - boomercal calum/ashton E, 69k

Summary: It’s his first big tour with his relatively newly joined band, opening for his favourite band in highschool. So what if he’s always found the drummer hot, nothing’s going to come of it, and it would unprofessional if something did happen.

The Best Thing (the way it’s supposed to be) (ao3) - gravityinglass michael/calum M, 87k

Summary: Or, the story of how 5 Seconds of Summer became a band (starting from the beginning) and how Michael Clifford realized he’d always been in love with Calum Hood (not starting from the beginning, not even close), and how taking on the world turned out to be less daunting than it seemed.

The Bodyguard (ao3) - iCheeseYou (EHkook) luke/ashton, michael/calum M, 138k

Summary: Ashton Irwin is a hot and famous celebrity that all the people love, look up to, or despise. He’s cocky, selfish, and always puts himself before others. Despite his personality, he’s pretty much wanted by everyone in the world.

But when things escalate to the point that Ashton nearly gets kidnapped, his manager assigns a boy named Luke Hemmings to become Ashton’s personal bodyguard, much to the star’s reluctance and annoyance.

Now Luke follows Ashton wherever he goes to make sure he’s safe from any danger, but Ashton is determined to get rid of his bodyguard as soon as possible.

the flatmate arrangement (ao3) - kaleidoscopeminds luke/calum T, 20k

Summary: Hi Calum/Poor Struggling Paralegal,   So I’ll be upfront with you. It’s a one-bed flat. I also live here. HOWEVER before you delete this and think I’m a freak, I work nights so I wouldn’t be here anytime you would be. You can have the flat exclusively from 6 pm to 8 am, Saturday night and all day Sunday. Understand this sounds like a bit of a crazy arrangement but I could do with the cash, let me know what you think?

Luke Hemmings (Poor Struggling Children’s Nurse)

A 'The Flatshare’ AU

the hues of me and you (ao3) - Calumthoodshands (tndart) luke/calum T, 25k

Summary: “And you’re not… doing this to get a date after all?” he asked after a moment, chewing on his lower lip. If he didn’t make sure of it now, he never would, and if there was one thing he most definitely didn’t need, it was his own love life interfering with his bachelor’s. No, thank you. Luke exhaled almost unnoticeably, but he smiled at Calum, a little lopsided, a little mischievous. “No, I’m not. You know, if you want, we’ll just make a pact. No falling for the other allowed, as long as we’re working on the project. No feelings and no dates. Nothing’s gonna happen, and we can both move on, and you’ll get your bachelor’s and we can live happily ever after. How’s that sound?”

there for you - @sup3rbloom​ (haveufoundwhaturlookingfor) luke/ashton, michael/calum T, 3k

Summary: Luke has been transferred to countless high schools due to the constant bullying. Finally, Luke lands in a high school where he gets to be with Ashton. He thinks it will be better for him, but he underestimated how popular Ashton really is.

there’s no need to run and hide (when the world leaves a scar) (ao3) -haveufoundwhaturlookingfor luke/ashton, michael/calum T, 10k

Summary: Luke is a new intern, and he gets along with pretty much everyone he works with. Well, everyone except for Ashton Irwin. Ashton is cold, and doesn’t give him the time of day. Certain events keep on bringing the two together whether they like it or not, and eventually, Luke finds out why Ashton is so cold.

The Sun Is Burning Down Los Angeles (ao3) - galacticsugar luke/calum M, 40k

Summary: Calum probably signed a form saying he wouldn’t fall in love with the lead singer of the band. And he really doesn’t want to. What a cliché. It’s just…people get famous for a reason. This guy got famous for all the reasons.

Calum moves to LA to work for 5SOS.

This Was Unforeseeable, Aching To Be Near You (ao3) - reversecow calum/ashton E, 15k

Summary: Ashton crosses the room, ready to fall into his own bed and sleep for as long as possible when he hears Calum sniffle and let out a quiet sigh.

“You’re never gonna love me.”

The night of Calum’s 23rd birthday, he accidentally tells Ashton more than he ever planned to about his feelings. Ashton looks back at the last eight years and does some soul searching.

Tidal Wave - @ashtcnirwin (elivigar) luke/ashton E, 127k

Summary: “We talked about it before we went over to fetch you,” Ashton starts, “and Michael talked it over with Liz, and we decided that you shouldn’t live on your own for the time being.”

“You decided that I shouldn’t live on my own,” Luke repeats. “Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but I’m an adult who can make his own decisions.”

Ashton smiles, but it’s thin and void of humour. “You’re staying with me for a while, Luke.”

A story about figuring out how to handle the difficulties life throws at you, on your own and with the help of loved ones.

Tie That Binds - @ashtcnirwin (elivigar) luke/ashton E, 98k

Summary: In which Luke wants to explore miscellaneous kinks and Ashton strikes him as a good candidate to do said exploring with with.

Tongue-Tied And White Lie Addicted (ao3) - fourdrunksluts michael/ashton, luke/calum E, 50k

Summary: Michael’s just finished his undergrad and is ready to stop messing around with strangers and get more serious about his studies as he prepares for his dream job. No relationships, no sex. Which is harder than it sounds when Ashton Irwin comes into his life.

Too Young, Too Dumb (ao3) - orphan_account luke/calum N/R, 15k

Summary: Calum has to find a way to pull his band back together or jump ship himself before he drowns along with Luke.

Trapped Under Your Spell (ao3) - mariawritesstuff (orphan_account) luke/calum N/R, 26k

Summary: Calum opens his eyes and grins. From where he is, he can see Luke smiling down at him. The sun is shining from behind Luke’s head and from Calum’s position it kind of looks like Luke himself is the sun. Calum is momentarily stunned.

Or, A Hogwarts Cake AU where the boys are the boys and feelings are caught/have been there all along.

twink boy bottom erotica. (ao3) - badomensbaby luke/calum E, 13k

Summary: in which luke agrees to be calum’s model for his photography project.

two can play that game (but you win me every time) (ao3) - galacticsugar luke/calum T, 10k

Summary: When Calum tells people he works at IKEA, people tend to respond enthusiastically. Some of them joke, did you have to learn Swedish?, or make a crack about the meatballs. Some of them ask how many marriages he’s seen end amongst the aisles. Basically, everyone turns into a comedian the moment Calum mentions his job.

two paper airplanes flying (ao3) - dazedlight (opinionoutpost) michael/luke T, 21k

Summary: Michael and Luke are neighbours, and, to get his attention, Michael starts sending Luke cute notes in the form of paper airplanes.

[storiessomeoneshouldwrite]

Prompt 256

Person A, drunk in a bar and shouting at the TV: God damn it! All these girls don’t have to be open and honest with you

Person B: You were playing the drinking game, weren’t you?

[sammystardust]

woman in a dream . joshua m. kiszka

a/n: finally getting this one out!! this one is based on their song "always there", which i <33 so much, so of course, i had to write some josh fluff to it hehe. my requests are always open so if you like my writing and would like something, shoot me one! again, thank you so much if youre reading this!

pairing: josh kiszka x f!reader

wc & summary: {3.1k} in which a mysterious woman haunts josh's dreams & he finds her where he leasts expects it

warnings: none! just some sickeningly cute fluff :)

quick disclaimer: just a reminder that all my work is fiction and are in no way a reflection of the band nor their management! this is all just story-telling from my imagination lol

˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚

They began every so often, maybe occurring once or twice a week. 

Then they spawned closer together, happening nearly every day. These dreams Josh was having were so real and lifelike, yet he couldn’t quite put his finger on them. They were taking a hold on his life, seeping into his mind during rehearsals and when he was out and about. He was constantly thinking about these mind-twisting dreams. They all centered around a woman, one whose face was muddled. He couldn’t exactly see or make out any distinct features of her face or figure, but he knew one thing for sure: the way she made him feel in every dream.

Josh was a hopeless romantic at heart. He adored watching all the romantic-comedies littered among Netflix and all other streaming services, whilst cuddled up to himself on the tour bus. He admired the relationships those closest to him were in, wishing he could spend his days in the arms and laughter of another being. Alas, being the front-man to a famous rock band, Josh was almost required to keep this identity of a livin’ through the fast life bachelor. Not that his feelings were regarded in this choice, but with the rest of the band off the market, the band’s PR team thought it would be a good move for the front-man to be unattainable, but right in reach for their female audience. 

So, with this dream of this mysterious woman floating around his mind at all times of the day, he became quite attached to this person. There was no way to know if this woman was anywhere near him, also completely ignoring the fact that she may not even exist. The woman in the dream made his heart feel full, complete. He wanted her to be able to scout her out in the crowd at concerts to dedicate his loving thanks to.  She brought an intoxicating happiness that made Josh excited to lay his head on his pillow after putting his all into an exhausting performance.

Josh knew absolutely nothing about this insentient being, but he was fully consumed by her and everybody around him noticed his changes in attitude. He was in a more blissful mood at all times, which came back to bite him at times as he was more susceptible to being caught lost in thought during times everybody else needed his attention… 

“Josh!” Jake huffed in annoyance once again at his twin’s obliviousness. The band was at the recording studio, hoping new song ideas would ignite in their jam out session. Slouched over on a meditation pillow with his guitar resting on his knees, Jake’s hands were up in the air towards his brother, signaling sort of a “what the fuck” gesture. The present trio’s eyes on their lead singer as he finally snapped out of whatever trance he was locked into. “You missed your count in again!”

“He’s probably thinking about that fantastical, wondrous, fictitious lover of his!” Sam sighed out, putting emphasis on the words he would say were “big words his older brothers make up”. He lay the back of his hand on his forehead, tilting his head back, effectively mocking Josh. His small performance would earn a chuckle from Danny, a smirk from Jake, and a poker face from the now seemingly awake Josh.

“Look, you guys just don’t understand.” Josh attempted to fight back but was met with equally confused looks. He sighed and fell onto the couch that his younger brother sat on. Sam gave him a shrug and a pat on the back, as Josh hung his head low. They didn’t understand what was going on through his head, truly, but they did collectively grow a slight impatience for the eldest as his daydreams were getting the better of him.

“Maybe we don’t! But, it’s really getting into our time as a band, Josh. We’ve been having to remind you of simple things throughout this sesh, ” Jake butt in, finally putting his guitar back home on its stand. He ran his hand through his hair and stared up at the clock on the wall. Trying to immediately find a middle ground, he continued. “Look, it’s already 7 PM, how about you grab us some dinner to clear your mind and we’ll reset okay?”

“There’s actually this really great Chinese food place right down the street. Susie’s, I think. Maybe you can pick us up something from there?” Danny suggested, quickly earning some nods from the other brothers. Taking that as a signal to get himself up and out the door, Josh stood up and made his way out of the studio.

“Just take a look at the menu and shoot me a text of what you guys want,” Josh shouted over his shoulder before walking out of the room. Shoving his hands into the pockets of his brown bomber jacket, he began his trek to this restaurant that he hoped really was just down the street. To his surprise (or maybe not), Danny was right (which he was 99% of the time). Josh stood in front of the restaurant, which was clearly a hole-in-the-wall. His eyes glanced up to the simple white block letters that spelled out “Susie’s” before making his way inside.

A tiny bell tinkled following his entrance with a sweet and savory aroma instantly overcoming his senses. For everything that lacked on the exterior, the inside made up for it. Mahogany floors stretched throughout the quaint building and elegant watercolor paintings flooded the walls. Despite being low-lit within, he could make out the litter of people on the seemingly endless array of round tables that were squished together maybe just a bit too close to one another. A faint instrumental played among everybody, almost drowned out by all the chatter, but Josh could hear the music loud and clear. 

“Hi, welcome! How can I help you?” A voice emerged from the crowd and suddenly, Josh’s heart picked up ten-fold. He could recognize that sweet voice from anywhere and surely, it couldn’t have been his mind playing tricks on him. Feeling a paralysis on his body come out of nowhere, thoughts raced through his head. This cannot be real. Is she real? You idiot, you need to answer her or else she’ll think you’re out of your mind. “Hey, are you okay?”

Four more words was all it took for Josh to finally turn towards the counter to his left. And there she was. There was never a clear idea of what she looked like at all but seeing her now was exactly how she was supposed to look. It was her, the woman in his dream. She sat on a high cushion stool cozily, swaying side to side on it. Her eyebrows furrowed in genuine concern as Josh’s eyes lovingly took in her appearance. A worn-out black cap was situated atop her head, loose strands of her hair poking out the front and sides. An oversized Zeppelin tee hung on her shoulders, and right on top of where her heart was stuck a rectangular sticker with a name and doodles scrawled on it. (Y/N)  

“Y’know, some people say I sound like Robert Plant,” Josh blabbered out, pointing a finger towards her shirt. Oh, you are definitely an idiot now. That’s what you say? He thought as he immediately shut himself up as the response elicited an awkward giggle from the girl. She gave a smile to him that made his heart pound out of his chest and knees weak. He took his hand up to his curls, awkwardly scratching the back of his neck. Feelings of warmth enveloped his heart while the embarrassment caught up on his cheeks.

“That’s actually really impressive,” She smiled, giving her shirt a quick tug. Josh walked closer to the counter, feeling like he was wading through water as the situation felt surreal to him. She was here all along, down the street. He still couldn’t entirely believe it. 

“I’m sorry, I am doing alright! I didn’t mean to ignore you, if anything, my attention was on you!” Josh stammered, now some pink appearing swiftly on her cheeks at his indirect compliment. His eyes were slightly wider than usual and his hands were talking alongside him. He knew he was nervous, from his faster than usual talking and heart beating harder and louder than it ever has before. “I’m sorry, you are just really beautiful and (Y/N)? That is a gorgeous name, the sweetest name I have ever heard, hands down. God, I am so sorry. I will shut up now.”

Josh was internally hitting himself as he couldn’t have made a bigger fool out of himself in front of the lady. He was smoother than this, he knew how to keep his cool, but around her, he found himself to be a total mess. To his surprise, she let out a laugh so pleasing to his ears that he felt he could write so many melodies around it. 

“Well, thank you. I think you just hit me with the most compliments per second,” (Y/N) nodded, giving an impressed look with the tint of pink even darker on her face. She swept a fallen strand of hair and tucked it back into her cap as Josh felt more buzzes within his pocket. “As much as I appreciate them, I don’t think my boss would enjoy me talking too much, so, what was it that I could help you with?”

“Ah, yes, I need to make a to-go order!” Josh exclaimed, remembering the reason why he was at the restaurant in the first place. (Y/N) nodded, a shy smile permanently residing on her face since this mysterious man walked in. She grabbed a notepad and a pen before looking back up into Josh’s eyes, noticing that they never left her face.

“Can I get a name for the order?”

“Josh.”

“A sweet name for such a sweet person,” She murmured under her breath, as she nervously looked back down towards the piece of paper to scribble it down. Josh perked up at her statement, a toothy grin appearing on his face as his heart fluttered even more. “What can I get for you, Josh?”

“Umm, here let me check,” He dug his phone out of his pocket, almost dropping it due to the nervous rush throughout his body from his name coming out of those pretty lips of hers. He almost lost himself again before he tapped his phone on, only to be greeted by a flurry of texts from all the boys, mainly his twin. Where are you? Sam’s getting antsy, needs food ASAP. Disregarding Jake’s questions, he scrolled up to where all their orders were and flipped the phone for her to be able to read off of it. She promptly jotted down their desired choices and turned her attention back up to the man in front of her. “Surprise me! I haven’t even looked at the menu if I’m being completely honest…”

“You’re all good! Lemme just,” Nodding in response, she wrote down another line of items, before ripping it clean from the pad and holding it up. “It’ll probably be like fifteen to twenty minutes tops. You can make yourself comfortable and I’ll bring it to you once it's all ready.”

Before Josh could say anything else, (Y/N) spun off the stool and disappeared into the patterned curtains that hung behind her, letting himself get a quick gaze of her back profile. Plopping himself down onto the chairs by the entrance, he felt a fond lightheadedness encompass himself. He was almost fully convinced that he was dreaming, pinching his arm multiple times to provide evidence, but no, this was real. For the past month, he was blessed with these dreams and now with her finally making an appearance in his life, Josh felt the feeling that every hopeless romantic hoped to feel. He was absolutely and utterly smitten. The woman of and in his dreams had sat before him and the feelings he was oh-so familiar with flushed his body: except this time he was awake to experience them.

“So, Robert Plant, huh? I would love to hear your impression sometime,” (Y/N) spoke, leaning against the counter, face resting on the palm of her hand. Josh snapped out of his thoughts to see the beautiful being once again, tilting his head up to look at her. Her hopeful face radiated a light that awoke a flame in his body.

“Yea, haha, I can also play a pretty mean tambourine, if that piques your fancy” Josh beamed towards her, enjoying the full attention she gave him. He also very much enjoyed the laughter he was able to elicit out of her. “I’m actually in a band with my brothers and a childhood friend of ours! You should check us out sometime!”

“Y’know, I might just have to.” (Y/N) smirked, relishing in the fact that meeting this interesting, odd man was the best part of her day so far, maybe even week. She couldn’t help but feel an attachment to him despite never meeting him before; his face only vaguely similar. Maybe he had ordered from Susie’s before or maybe he stood behind her in line at the grocery store before. There was no telling why she felt that way but all she knew was that in the moment, she wanted to become closer to him. Staring at his face and the way his curls bounced with every word he spoke, she was captivated with anything and everything he had to say. 

Ding! The sound of a tap of a bell immediately pulled both Josh and (Y/N) out of their trances with one another. As quickly as she went back into the kitchen, she was back out holding a bag, bulging with delicious Chinese food. Josh took the bag from her and thanked her once again.

“I was able to sneak in some extra pot stickers, on the house,” (Y/N) winked, twirling a piece of hair between her fingers. “I also left you something else, written on top of your box of food, Josh.”

It’s almost as if Josh really couldn’t contain his excitement as he flashed her a genuine grin. Giving her a slight wave, he gave his final goodbye before leaving. “I’ll see you later, (Y/N).”

With one last smile and wave towards him, Josh made his way out with the food, hearing the bell tinkle once again. He pulled out his phone with his free hand and shot off a text to their band’s group chat. She’s real! Of course, his text was only met with a bunch of question marks and a snarky where’s my food from his younger brother. Shaking his head, he continued his short trek back to the boys in the recording studio. 

Once he was back, he set the bag down in front of the boys, each promptly reaching for their box, leaving Josh’s at the very bottom. Removing it from the plastic bag, he saw the familiar scrawl written atop the brown box and couldn’t help but smirk and show off to the boys that she was indeed a real person, only to be met with the same laughter as before. It was alright now though because she was in his life and that’s what mattered to him the most.

can’t wait to hear your sick tambourine solo. xxx-xxx-xxxx <3 (y/n)

.

Josh’s chest heaved up and down as the closing notes to the song came to an end. From the stage, it seemed like endless waves of people, every single one giving their all to the band’s performance. The lights shone one him and he loved it all, taking in the moment to seal in his memory forever. As the song fizzled out, the roar of the crowd immediately took over, no silence to be found when  moving on to the next song. Josh gave a hearty laugh, to which he could see her in the corner of his eye. Just the sight of her still caught his breath and could bring out the biggest of smiles to etch out on his lips. 

She sat in one of the higher seated areas, right above the stage. Her hair was messy from joining the rest of the fans in rocking out to their music, having the time of her life during the concert. She gave a matching smile back to Josh, his heart taking flight in that moment. 

“Can’t you guys just feel all the love in here! I know I definitely can!” Josh yelled out into the microphone, with various positive responses all intertwined together from the crowd. He reached an arm out towards her direction, fingers curled in a way that was almost asking her to take his hand. “Especially more so today, because about a year ago, my heart was blessed with the most beautiful, spectacular presence.”

Her lips pursed together, trying to hold back any tears. The past year of her and Josh together was a love she hoped every person in the world could experience. Not long after Josh left Susie’s with a bag full of food, (Y/N) received a text from an unknown number, quickly revealing itself to be the impressionable curly-haired man. Texting all the time instantly turned to calling which turned to meeting up as much as they could, which included as many silly tambourine solos dedicated to her whenever she wanted. He eventually did confess his dreams and how he knew in the moment that she was the one in them. All she could ever say was that he was genuinely crazy but so glad those dreams oddly brought him to her.

Falling for each other was probably the easiest thing both of them had ever done, maybe only staying in love with one another could top it. As much as the band’s PR team was against their front-man being taken, everybody could see that the pair were smitten and couldn’t be taken apart. Not only that but the fans adored her, despite their relationship being a bit more private with some posts about each other every now and again. After leaving Susie’s, (Y/N) became accustomed to the touring life pretty quickly, assimilating easily with the help of her partner and their welcoming band, as well as their respective partners. She was always there for Josh, supporting his work in every way possible and vice versa. 

“To thank her for the light she has brought into my life, our next song is for her,” Josh spoke gently, still staring up at her in the crowd. The fans immediately went crazy, some pointing up towards her and others “aww-ing” at his sweet endearments for her. (Y/N) smiled back, mouthing an “I love you” with a tear or two hanging on her cheek. A countdown played, followed by her favorite sound in the world.

You’ve been waiting for your lover…

˚ ༘♡ ⋆｡˚

[mygreatadventurehasbegun]

My Personal Ranking of Cary Grant’s movies.

A while ago, I did a post ranking Audrey Hepburn’s movies...I decided to do some for a few other actors!

During the pandemic, I started working my way through Cary Grant’s filmography, and brought the number of his films I’ve seen up to 17.  I won’t be discussing them all in lots of detail, because that would make this post waaay too long, but I’ll be ranking them from least favorite to God-Tier.

And I’m ranking these movies based on how much I enjoy them, not just based on performances.  

17. The Bishop’s Wife

A bit too preachy and overly sentimental for me...

16. None but the Lonely Heart

I honestly don’t remember much of this movie at all, sadly...other than he was nominated for Best Actor.

15. Monkey Business

I wish Cary Grant and Ginger Rogers had made more movies together, because they have great chemistry.  

14. Suspicion

I need to re-visit this one...I remember being sort of ‘meh’ about it...and kind of wishing that they were allowed to keep the original ending.

13. My Favorite Wife

Only seen this one once, but it’s not my favorite Irene Dunne/Cary Grant pairing.

12. The Bachelor and the Bobby Soxer

A pretty fun movie, and I wish that Cary Grant had done more movies with Myrna Loy...because again, great chemistry...this seems to be a theme...

11. To Catch a Thief

Gorgeous scenery and costumes...and that’s kind of it...a good background movie.

10. Arsenic and Old Lace

So.  Much.  Mugging.  A good choice for when you want some over-the-top comedy.

9. The Awful Truth

I definitely prefer this one to My Favorite Wife.  He and Irene Dunne worked really well together and the bits with the dog were really cute!

8. Bringing up Baby

I know this is a comedy classic, but I was surprised how much I didn’t love this one...not because of the story or performances...but honestly, the character of Susan really annoyed me...lady, just listen to what the man is saying!!  So, I identified with David a lot, because I’ve dealt with people like that...but my annoyance does go down a bit as the story goes on, but it makes it a challenge to get into when I start the movie.  

But Cary Grant’s physical comedy is so on point.

7. His Girl Friday

I love the dialogue in this movie.  It’s not a movie that I put on a lot, but it’s a ton of fun when I do.  And Rosalind Russell is amazing.

6. North by Northwest

This is such an interesting movie.  It’s another of his that I’ve only seen once or twice, but it’s such a well-made “wrong man” movie with a great story.  And I love the interactions between Cary Grant and Eva Marie Saint. 

5. Indiscreet

I watched this movie for the first time in 2020 and it has quickly become a new favorite!  Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman have such wonderful chemistry (carried over from their work in Notorious) in this fun romantic comedy and Cary Grant looks like he’s having so much fun...particularly in the scene below.

4. Holiday

This is a newer-to-me Cray Grant film...I received for Christmas back in 2020 and it’s such a fun movie!  Of the four films he did with Katharine Hepburn, this feels like the most “traditional” romantic comedy, and I love the development of the character’s romance...it feels very natural.  And I love that Grant gets to show off his acrobatic training...it’s always fun for me to see an actor show off their special skills.  And I think if someone wanted to start watching Cary Grant’s movies, this would be one of the films I’d recommend they start with.

3. Charade

Time for my favorite Audrey Hepburn movie and one of my favorite Cary Grant movies!  This movie is so much fun and it really allows Cary Grant to do a little bit of everything he was good at...comedy (both broad and subtle), drama and romance!  And he and Audrey Hepburn have amazing chemistry!  This is such a great movie no matter what genres you’re into...it’s a romance, a mystery, a comedy, a thriller...another great recommendation for someone looking for classic films to watch!

2. Notorious

My favorite Hitchcock movie!!  I would probably consider this to be Cary Grant’s best performance.  I know he was nominated for two different performances throughout his career, but I think he was excellent in this movie...though he was probably overshadowed by Ingrid Bergman and Claude Rains.  He is so restrained and understated...and even though Dev is a bit of a dick, he does have a really nice character arc.  And as I said earlier, he and Ingrid Bergman have unbelievable chemistry.

1. The Philadelphia Story

The Philadelphia Story ranks as one of my all-time favorite comedies.  Cary Grant may have the less showy role, but I absolutely adore him in this movie!  It’s really fun watching him be the “straight man”, something I feel like he didn’t have a lot of opportunities to do.  But that doesn’t mean he won’t make you laugh...while everyone else does all this wild stuff around him, he can just sit there and give a look and be just as funny.  It’s too bad he doesn’t get to use his physical comedy chops, but the role doesn’t need it.  

I could ramble and ramble on about this movie, but this post is long enough so I’ll just say that it’s a damn near perfect film with perfect casting.

And there seems to be one consistent thread throughout Cary Grant’s career: he had great chemistry with nearly everyone he worked with!

[delfiore]

take my hand, wreck my plans [pt. i]

pairing: amy march x reader

synopsis: in paris where amy learned the manners of a proper lady is also the place where she opens her heart to you, a free-spirited traveler who’s only ever here for a good time.

word count: 4.1k

a/n: and so the flo pugh phase on delfiore begins. i’d just like to thank @rednoexiste for being my duolingo owl pestering me everyday so that i have the motivation to finish this one :’)

>> part ii

now playing:

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Until she met you, Amy March had the story of her life all planned out.

Fred Vaughn was an eligible bachelor whose fortune would ensure a comfortable life not only for her, but for her entire family. More or less she knew he would propose soon as she’s worked to have him take a liking to her ever since she was 13. If that didn’t work out, she would still have her paintings and be determined to become the best painter there ever was. In any case, she would find a way to support herself because that was what Aunt March taught her, to make the best of her circumstances as a woman in society. Meeting Laurie again was like a light at the end of the tunnel, and being in his presence brought out the innocent child that she once was when she first fell in love with him. She showed him around Paris, brought him to see Aunt March, who behind his back raised a lot of censorious eyebrows, and rekindling their friendship brought her to you.

You first caught her eyes at the evening ball by your radiant smile and the way you seemed to enrapture a circle of partygoers in your animated storytelling. Only when your audience erupted into a round of laughter after you delivered your punchline did Amy look away just as Fred towered over her to offer her a dance. All the while she danced with Fred, her eyes darted to you swirling in the arms of a gentleman across the room. The fluidity in your movement told her that you must have taken dancing lessons, something not everyone could afford and was therefore one of the higher classes. Splendid, she thought, she could befriend you and climb the social ranks in Paris. That was if she was brave enough to strike up a conversation with you.

The piece ended and the room erupted into claps, yet Laurie was still nowhere to be found unlike he had promised her the day before. She excused herself from Fred and headed towards the entrance of the ballroom, and only then did she notice that you were also nowhere to be found. However she set her mind on trying to find Laurie and hoped that he would walk through the door soon. Instead of hearing her friend’s drunken singing and obnoxious boots stumbling through the door, she heard coming from an indent in the hallway giggles and the sound of lips smacking and low moans. Her annoyance grew knowing that her doubts had come true. There could never be a world in which Theodore Laurence would pull it together and act his age.

She rounded the corner and approached the noise. “Laurie, I swear to God, you—”

Her jaw dropped in shock when the culprit eliciting those lewd sounds in front of her was not Laurie’s doing, but yours. You mirrored her expression as soon as you finished nibbling on the lady’s neck and had let go of her dress that you hiked up. Amy didn’t let you plead your case before disappearing the way she came from, the image of you and the lady etched in her mind like a stamp. She walked back into the ballroom with her best neutral expression, mind so far from body that she didn’t even notice Laurie finally coming up to her.

Paris, the capital city of France, didn’t turn out to be such a big city after all. Laurie found her drawing in the park a few days later and was so excited to introduce her to his new friend. Her face dropped when you leaned over with a bright smile.

“Pleased to make your acquaintance.” You nodded slightly.

Laurie left soon when he looked at his pocket watch and excused himself to attend business calls. By then, you had already introduced yourself as a traveler to discover “all the land that man can reach”. The way you carried yourself with your shoulders squared, a soft smile and courteous words made it hard for Amy to believe that you were the one she caught in such a scandalous position. But she wasn’t condemning you for that. She knew that attraction couldn’t be helped after hearing Meg cry about “strange feelings” she felt for lovely Edith that worked in the old tavern in town, and by herself when something still stirred in her stomach seeing Laurie, despite himself, years after having fancied him as a young girl. She just couldn’t fathom anyone being so open and unapologetic about it, thinking about the consequences of being found out.

“So you are an artist.”

“Yes.” She answered courtly and returned to her sketch.

“I must say that’s a very innocent interpretation of your subjects, Miss March.”

At your words, she stopped her pencil and looked up. “Whatever do you mean? They are two ladies.”

“Yes.” You nodded, the grin spreading wider. “They are two ladies.”

Realization dawned on her, and suddenly the two ladies sitting a few yards away from her acted under a different lens, a more intimate one as the lady with the big hat held out a biscuit waiting for the other to catch it with her mouth.

“And how are you so sure?” Amy remarked.

“I’m not. I simply make observations from which I draw conclusions.”

At this point, she’d already found you insufferable. “Thank you for your input, but I think I’ll decide the relationship between my subjects myself.”

Despite the slight flare in her voice, you only smiled that stupidly radiant smile of yours and said: “Well, I suppose I’ll have to be around to consult you on your drawings, because clearly, what you lack is perspective.”

“Perspective?” She retorted, glaring at you.

“There is no shame in not knowing.” You said.

“You cannot just go around telling people what to think! I don’t know what you learned in the way you were raised, but that is just rude.” Seeing her gather her sketchbook and pencils to stand up, you only chuckled which infuriated her even more.

“I’ll see you around, Miss March.” She heard you call and could almost imagine that smirk on your face, and kept walking.

She didn’t see you for the next week or so. Maybe a part of her wished you did keep your promise and bothered her every time she went to the park. Unlike Fred or Laurie, you actually took interest in her works and appreciated them, enough to challenge them. Laurie would come by and visit her at the art studio and pester her in the manner that he always would, and Amy would always find herself feeling a bit disappointed when she didn’t see you and your million-dollar smile greeting her. But what did she expect, another busy socialite inebriated in their own fame and influence, only the exact type of people Laurie would befriend.

Amy has been going home much earlier these days with Aunt March complaining about sore joints and becoming less active by the day. At first she didn’t think much of it — it might have just been the changing seasons and Aunt March has always been prone to those — but she stayed in bed longer and needed assistance getting out of bed, going down the stairs and such. “You’d best hurry on the Vaughn boy,” she’d say, “lest I crawl into my grave early and you go back to Concord unmarried. You’d be back to square one.”

“I’m home!” Amy called just after closing the front door behind her. It wasn’t unusual of her aunt to not answer back immediately, but there was indistinct chatter from the living room followed by a hearty laugh, Aunt March’s.

“Oh, good, Amy, you’re back.” The older woman leaned forward cheerfully. “You never told me you had such interesting friends. Y/N here was just telling me about her trip to Japan.”

Amy’s surprise quickly soured into vexation, but kept her composure in front of Aunt March enough to pull onto your sleeve and let go in the hallway.

“What are you doing here?! How did you know where I live?” Amy whispered angrily.

“Laurie told me. I just wanted to come by and say hello to your aunt, I even brought her some silk from Japan which were very expensive, by the way—”

“We don’t need anything from you, Y/N.” She grumbled.

“I also wanted to come and apologize for my behavior the other day. It was out of place.” You pressed your lips together. “So, I brought you this. As an apology.” You showed her a long, thin box of wood with beautiful details engraved with jade on top. Once she unlocked the hinge and pried the lid open, a surprised gasp escaped her lips.

“Y/N, this—”

“Is a set of writing brushes I acquired just before I left Edo, which is now Tokyo, I suppose. I don’t know whether you could use it in your paintings, but I hope you do. I’d love to see more of your perspective on things.”

Amy was at a loss for words. Maybe she was wrong about you. You seemed satisfied with her reaction when that charming smile spread across your lips again. When she asked what she could repay you with, you only shrugged and said: “Your friendship.”

And so that was how her peculiar friendship with you began. Most of the times you were friends, after the relationship was inaugurated in a sort of exchange when you gave her your present, sometimes there were moments that made her question the nature of your friendship, wondering whether or not being friends was enough to describe what you had: the little moments at the park when her stomach stirred hearing you laugh at something she had said; the reassurance she felt whenever she saw your face at a party and the way you would always pester her; how easily Aunt March seemed to warm up to you, seeing that no one gets past her judgmental glares. One thing that never faltered was your charm which seemed to work on everybody. One time you managed to sneak both you and her into a VIP party just by flirting with the guards. That was also the night when Amy doubted marrying Fred.

You stormed out of the party with heavy steps that rang on the cobblestone, gripping her hand tightly and pulling you with her. She called your name once, then twice, a little louder before you stopped. She had never seen you so angry, your eyebrows loomed over your eyes and your lips curved in a scowl. You were breathing heavily which scared her a bit.

“Why would you let him do that to you?” You barked.

“It’s alright, Y/N.” She grabbed your arm in an attempt to soothe you.

“No, it’s not alright. How dare he do that to a lady in plain sight?!”

“It’s not like you haven’t done that before!”

“With their permission! I don’t go around forcing myself on them!”

“I don’t know why you’re so irritated over this. Fred and I are to be married.”

“Yes, he dares to do so when you’re not yet married. Who knows what else he'll do when you are his by law.”

At this, Amy stopped, the next words to propel the argument stuck in her throat. She noticed that your demeanor changed after you let out a heavy sigh; you looked sad.

“I’d better go,” you said, your voice tempered again, “before I say something I regret. I’ll see you around.”

She had never questioned Fred’s intention before that night. It always seemed that she was taking advantage of him, his wealth and the stability he would give her. She never thought of what it might mean in return. You went off the radar for the next few days. She even asked Laurie and even he had no idea where you went. “Probably on some adventure around the city. She always seems to get herself into trouble, that one,” Laurie would say nonchalantly as he blew on a dandelion, watching the fluffy seeds float away seamlessly into the blue sky. She would sit at her spot in the park where she knew you would find her, but you never did.

Life had to go on with or without you, and Amy was preparing to attend an art exhibition organized by a rich art connoisseur in town. Though she had to scramble to fit her gigantic painting into the carriage, she was excited because it was a chance to show off her work to the elite of the Parisian art scene, or at least what the elite dictated who they were. When she arrived, the exhibition was beginning to fill up, most of the exhibitors being men dressed in black suits, a few women here and there. So Amy got to work; she registered herself and chose an empty spot in the grander room of the house, and set up her canvas near the window, where natural light made the scene in her painting glow. Visitors poured into the exhibition as her excitement grew. However she quickly deflated when she realized they crowded around her male colleagues, and only a few would glance at hers then proceeded to find another male painter to marvel at. She expected this of course, but that didn’t lessen her disappointment nonetheless. No matter how good she was, people would still not be able to look past her gender.

That was until an older man walked through the rows and stopped in front of her painting. She was face-to-face with him, his arms behind his back, puffs of smoke floating away from his pipe as he studied her painting under furrowed eyebrows. After a minute or two, he took the pipe from his lips, and said in French: “It’s too dull.”

“Excuse me?” She blurted out.

“It’s dull. There’s no life in this. How did you manage to suck the life out of such marvelous scenery?”

“I—“

“I’d beg to differ, sir.” Your voice appeared before you did, next to the man. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to interrupt, but I’d say this is a marvelous depiction of a marvelous scenery.”

“Really? How so?”

“The trees, the flowers, the girl, they all speak to one another, like harmony in a soulful piano étude Chopin would compose. The choice of color truly brings out the vivacity and the sudden chaos of the children playing together. But without that beam of sunlight spread across the painting there, this would be dull, as you said. I’m glad the artist decided to spray a part of the sun into the work. This isn’t just a painting, sir, it’s a window into happier times, almost nostalgic if I must say.”

“Well, if you put it like that . . . “ The man scratched his beard. “I see what you mean. Perhaps I had been too harsh. Art is food for the soul, and each soul is different. You, what’s your name?”

“Amy March, sir.”

“Américaine?”

“Yes, sir.”

He nodded. “Hugo Périer. Would you like to apprentice at my studio?”

“Yes, sir! Thank you, sir!” Amy beamed in excitement, as Périer handed her a business card.

“Monday at 8, don’t be late.”

She still buzzed with glee when the man walked away. When her eyes finally met yours, she was greeted by a warm smile on your face. No words could describe her thanks to you, so she leapt into your arms and locked you tightly in her embrace. Though you seemed taken aback by her sudden display of affection, you let out a laugh and circled your arms around her waist and held her tightly.

“This calls for a celebration.” You squeezed her hand. By nightfall, you took her to a corner of Paris that she had never come across before. It was an old tavern hidden in the center of the city, lit by a few lanterns and packed with people that you had to grab her hand and squeeze through the bodies so you wouldn’t lose her.

“I want you to meet someone.” You smiled and extended your hand towards a beefy man with a scruffy dark beard, maybe in his forties. “This is Serge, our captain. He’s the whole reason I get to sail around.”

Amy felt small against the man’s enormous frame, but as soon as he cracked a smile and ruffled your hair, her shoulders relaxed at your unusual meekness with the man. “You must be the artist. Y/N would not quit yapping on about your pretty drawings.”

She let out a surprised laugh, and when she looked at you, you rolled your eyes and dug your elbows into Serge’s side trying to hide your pink cheeks.

“You must play a song, Y/N. Everyone’s been waiting for you to come.” Serge beckoned you over and pushed you towards the upright piano by the staircase, as you shot her an apologetic smile. As soon as your fingers glided over the keys, it was as if the whole tavern shifted and the tune swept everyone on their feet. Serge pushed her in the middle and before she knew it, Amy became lost in the music and moved with it and the people. For the first time in a while, she didn’t care about keeping her image or making an impression. It was very unlike her to let loose and let the music take over her body; she hadn’t done that ever since she was a child. You recognized this, and that wide smile on her face was a sight to see. When the song ended and the entire pub cheered, you met her eyes, and for a split second Amy felt utterly euphoric at the feeling of being free, surrounded by people who also danced and sang without a care in the world, and she was so happy to share it with you.

“Where did you learn to play the piano?” She asked you once everyone stopped pestering you to play.

“I just picked it up here and there.” You replied, taking a small sip from your beer. “Never had any proper lessons though.”

“That’s much better than I could ever play. My sister Beth was always the family musician.”

“She your only sister?”

“No.” Amy chuckled. “I have three sisters. I’m the youngest.”

“Wow.” You huffed amused. “That’s a chaotic household.”

“You?”

There was a beat of hesitation behind you answer. “I never knew my parents, didn’t have any siblings either. I lived on the streets until Serge found me when I was eleven? Twelve? He’s the only family I’ve ever known.”

“Oh. I’m sorry, Y/N.”

“Don’t be. I’m happy with my life.” The soft light curved over your smile, but Amy could see a hint of longing in your eyes. Sometimes her annoyance with her family overpowered her unconditional love for them, and she never really felt grateful to spend time with them at home. It must be so lonely and difficult for you to grow up alone. She would never know how you feel and that made her sad because she would never be able to share your pain, while you had made your mission to make her feel understood ever since she met you.

There were a million thoughts racing through her head when you walked her home, after she realized it was 10pm and Aunt March would be worried sick (to which you only laughed at her and called her “Cinderella but way too uptight”). There was a blanket of comfortable silence draped around the two of you as you walked. She had never felt like this with Fred and only ever felt the need to impress him with every chance she got, from walking a little bit straighter, changing her voice so that he would see it fit for a lady, or smile a little too hard at the jokes he makes that frequently fall flat.

“Fred apologized to me.” She suddenly spoke.

“Is that so?” You huffed. “Did he give you that necklace?”

You knew the answer to that. Fred Vaughn had staked his claim on Amy March long before you came into the picture. As she hesitantly touched the jewelry, you only looked away and smiled. And why wouldn’t he? Amy March was truly one-of-a-kind.

She said her goodbyes when you arrived in front of the March mansion, peering up at the flickering candle Aunt March must have left for her. The streets have now cleared up, and it was only you and her within the area that she could see. She said goodbye, but there was something that held her back. She didn’t want you to go yet, not when you looked so wonderful in this light. She watched you walk towards the gate into the streets, and when you disappeared behind the corner, she went inside.

The months rolled by and her friendship with you grew. Though you still retained some of your extravagant antics, Amy had grown to love that about you. It would be so that she would miss your shenanigans once she marries Fred and she knew he would suggest settling in London.

“Boo!” She jumped at the sudden shove at her shoulders. Turning around, she scowled once she heard your laugh poking fun at her.

“Jesus, Y/N.” She muttered. “You are so stupid.”

“But you love me.” You said, and planted a kiss on her cheek from behind. “Besides, without me you’re going to be cooped up in this room all day. Do you even know that it’s snowing?!”

She turned away in an attempt to hide the faint blush that no doubt had printed on her cheeks. “Yes, Y/N, but I can’t just leave in the middle of my session. Périer would not be happy and I need this . . . and don’t touch the fruits, they’re models for the next junior class coming in.” She turned back again to see you staring at her with a grape bulging out of your cheek like a squirrel, and sighed.

You swallowed the grape and grimaced. “Tastes like it too. Come, Amy, it’s 4pm. Your session is over.”

Amy did not, in fact, notice that it snowed. It was the first snow in Paris that season, and everything was covered in a blanket of white.

“Come on!” You said, running past her and smiling widely. “It’s snowing!”

She laughed at your childlike behavior and ran towards you with a chuckle. As you threw a chunk of snow in the air and let it rain over your head, Amy was suddenly reminded of Jo doing the same when they were younger. Suddenly, she felt that familiar feeling that she hadn’t felt in a long time, that she only felt when she was with her family. That feeling of safety and being loved, and the childlike innocence that she so much took for granted. As you smiled at her, it felt like home. So when you threw a snowball at her, she reciprocated the attack which resulted into a full-blown snowball fight. She would do this forever if it meant always being able to hear you laugh.

“Y/N, give me back my gloves, I’m cold.” She called, rubbing her numb hands against one another.

“No way! I’m still cold. If these beautiful fingers fall off and I won’t be able to play piano, my life will be ruined!”

“There’s no way your hands aren’t already warm, you’ve had them on for 20 minutes!” She whined, the same way she would to her older sisters when she begged them to let her tag along to parties.

You looked up at her and huffed out a breath. Amy watched you as you walked towards her while tugging her gloves off of your hands.

“Did you use to whine like this with your family to get what you want, hmm?” You took her hand and put the gloves on. She was still huffing out clouds of cold air, but her hands grew warmer with you nestling them in the gloves.

She pouted. “How else would I get my gloves back?”

“You need only ask.” You said softly, your mouth emitting smoke. “I’ll keep you warm. Always.” A smile rose on your face and you rubbed your thumbs over her cheeks.

When the first snow fell in Paris that year, Amy March fell in love for the first time in her life.

>> part ii

[fluutterian]

diluven ;: a taste of yours

a/n: unedited plus i just wanted to post smth since i had a really bad diluc brainrot mrgrgrhr

also slight ooc diluc and venti ! if you don't like diluven then scroll away >>

---

"diluc.., what are you doing?"

venti walked in, (like he always did just to give diluc his daily dose of annoyance) clearly surprised by the sight before him. the young master was attempting to take a sip of wine, his lips barely making contact with rim of the glass. "... i was just merely tasting it. you.. always seemed to enjoy it, consuming it in inhuman amounts, and i was curious as to why you found this digestible.." diluc turned his head, placing down the wine glass. venti tilted his head, biting down on his tongue to keep that small laugh from escaping his own lips. you could easily tell that the young master was struck in love with him.

not that he wasn't going to point it out.

who else would he try wine for? "why do you insist drinking alone, master diluc? i would be a preferable drinking buddy if you wish to drink at all." venti grinned, shooting finger guns at the red head. the young master gritted his teeth, pushing the quarter-filled glass away from him.

the bard giggled and hopped onto the stool besides him, taking the glass for himself. diluc, unbothered by now, simply allowed him to. "you do realize that you have a debt following your name, do you?" he propped himself up on his hand, eyes focused on just the bard. venti poured himself a fuller glass, much more than the wimpy shot that diluc poured for himself. "weren't you the one admitting to paying it off yourself?" he brought the glass to his lips, a small smirk forming in the corner of them as he took a sip.

"yes.. because you wouldn't pay for it yourself.. as if you could pay it at all."

"that's just how kind you are, master diluc. but don't you think it means something?" venti turned his head to face the male, eyes shimmering almost to weaken him. "urk." diluc averted his gaze. "i don't understand what you mean."

"you know exactly what i mean." the bard sneakily placed his hands on diluc's knees, holding himself up as he inched in closer to the red head. "i suppose this is your way of love for me?"

silence.

"i do find myself listening in on your small conversation with my statues.." diluc turned his head almost immediately, face flushed res in embarrassment. his own god had been listening to his rants and rambles with their statues? talk about embarrassing.. "hehe, caught your attention?" venti teased.

"mm.. what was it? give me a moment to recall one of them." venti pulled his hand back, tapping his his lip.

the moment he parted his lips, diluc slapped a hand over the bard- archon's mouth. venti cheekily grinned from his eyes. "don't.. don't speak anymore." the red-head furrowed his brows together.

"mnhmmhrmmhhhh." he let go. "why don't you confess your feelings while i'm here?" venti grinned.

"i *have* no feelings to confess."

"you do, you totally do!"

this went on for a while, back and forth as diluc refused to absolutely tell venti even though they both knew what would come out of his pretty lips.

"fine, fine- i.. l... y...o.."

"i didn't quite catch that-"

"i love you."

venti was now the one blushing instead. or rather, they both were blushing profusely. silence once more, but the tension grew to be something more different. their hearts raced, thumping against their chests.

the bard, being the one to always initiate the first move, leaned in and kissed the red-head to end that silence. "wait-" diluc breathed before their lips crashed against each other. he was kissing an archon. his god. *the* archon of mondstadt.

there was no use in stopping, for as his arms unwillingly snaked around the bard's surprisingly thin waist. "just follow my lead." venti whispered against his lips. perhaps the shaky movements in his body and the sloppy kissing led for venti to figure that this was his first. funny for the top bachelor in mondstadt.

what went for almost hours now, the two were breathless at this point. cheeks brushed pink, drool slightly staining the corner of their lips. diluc just kissed a god. he just fucking kissed his god.

"you're totally freaking out right now." venti pointed out the obvious, laughing at his shook state. diluc interrupted once again, the bard cupped his cheeks and planted a kiss on his lips.

"i love you too."

[ivorypiano]

au i just made that i am getting very emotionally attached to:

it started out as a deltarune au but has spiraled out of control and doesn't follow the plot of deltarune at all.

Ocean is the star student of St. Cassian Catholic School, a title she picked up after her older sister Astrid moved out.

Astrid was her last real friend, so she gets very annoying at this point.

One day she decides to go to the annual Fall Fair, and decides to ride The Cyclone. The only other person in the cart is the new kid, Mischa.

At the apex of the ride Ocean suddenly blacks out, and finds herself in a fair that looks like the one she was just in, but it's night time and it's way bigger. She's wearing fantasy-esque clothes, and lying next to her is Mischa (also in different clothes).

Mischa wakes up and they decide to explore, and that's where the fun stuff starts :)

So this AU takes place in Wonderville, which is essentially an afterlife that looks like an endless fair. Some ghosts end up there, and Wonderville essentially warps them into versions of themselves defined by their negative thoughts (an excuse for me to make edgy versions of everyone). They also all have the same goal- to be brought back to life. To do this you need to kill a living person, aka Ocean and Mischa. The Party has to figure out how to get the ghosts they encounter to basically get to the point of sparing (like in Deltarune). Each ghost is its own bossfight, and after the party figures out how to spare them they join the party!

The first boss is Noel [aka Monique]. Ocean distantly remembers him in some of her classes in Junior High, and hearing about how he died as a sophmore. He's in character as Monique for most of the fight, but he's still Noel.

His attacks are Thorny Rose [tall roses grow from the ground, the flowers heal you but the thorns deal damage], Pouring Rain [a barrage of damage-dealing rain falls from the sky], and Fire Of Passion [Monique takes a drag from her cigarette and the smoke slows you down (and triggers Ocean's asthma), then she tosses the cigarette at you which suddenly bursts into fire] + misc ones I haven't written yet.

They spare Noel by talking to him about Uranium, eventually getting him to the point of annoyance where he monologues about how he was stuck in Uranium and longed for tragedy. It's all very dramatic but heartfelt, and Mischa hugs him and tells him he thinks he's tragic. And Noel is spared!

The other bossfights (which I'll talk about later) go in the order of Ricky [The Space Age Bachelor Man], Constance [Jawbreaker], a surprise :), and then [Jane Doe].

Anyways I love this AU a lot and am rotating it in my brain.

[icollectyoursins]

Jotaro Relationship Head Canons SFW

Because I’m a self indulgent little shit and just love to ignore all of the work I have to do, have some Jotaro head canons. I am but a humble simp, and love this man. So much.

Update as of writing this. Somehow, it got very angsty, so... yeah. Sad man vibes. Also rambly. I just kinda kept going.

Wanna know what I’m willing to write? Rules here!

Have a character, but no idea? Prompt list here!

Looking for more? Master post here!

WARNINGS: None, just angst, but nothing too serious.

Word Count: 2,985

Jotaro’s type is... I mean, it depends, like most people. I don’t think he’s super picky over appearances or things like that, it’s more whether or not he gets along with you and how long he can put up with you.  He’s polite (well, as polite as he can be) and courteous, but probably a little more apathetic when you’ve first met. Once you’ve been around for a while he’s more relaxed and almost a little more critical. Mostly because you’re his friend now and he expects more from his friends.

While I was writing this I sort of realized that he could be aromantic. Maybe it’s just my own aro tendencies coming through, but I thought it sort of lined up with his personality. Or at least from my experience with romantic attraction.

Eventually, though, he’ll admit he cares about you a little more than he cares about others. It comes through in little almost compliments. “You did good. Keep it up” or “good job, dealing with this” are common phrases that sound nice on the surface, but it almost feels like he’s trying to pressure you to do more, which is far from the truth.  

If it’s not awkward compliments like that, it’s awkward gifts. Always something you had briefly mentioned wanting or stared at a minute longer than you usually do, wrapped in a paper that’s your favourite colour or pattern. Sometimes, though, it’s something you’ve never mentioned that he somehow guessed would be something you wanted.

At the same time, though, he’s oblivious or at least acts like he is. There may be times when he goes home after you said something exceptionally sweet to him or that just means so much and he’ll just take a moment sitting at his desk to mull over what you said.

    With a grunt, Jotaro rolled back into the armchair with a cup of tea in one hand and today’s newspaper in the other, since he didn’t get to read it this morning. It’s late with the sun almost completely set, giving his room an orange hue. He tries reading the first column, something about a cat being saved from a sewer grate, but after about a minute, he catches himself drifting away, sort of staring blankly at the paper.

    He blinks hard, taking a long sip from his coffee. He must be tired. Another attempt is made at reading, this time the comics. They’re not his favourite thing, but short enough that he can focus on them. Or so he thought.

    He zones out again, face suddenly feeling very hot.

    He was thinking about you. Or, rather what you said.

    It was something so simple, so mundane.

    You had been talking about family together, exchanging drama, if you will, and he had brought up how his father had left his mother when he was very young. It didn’t bother him, he had said, after all, it was years ago and if he was being honest, he didn’t really need a father. Then, you gave him this look. It wasn’t pity or something like that. You put your hand on his knee, staring deep into his eyes.

    “Jotaro,” you said, voice soft and sweet. You struggled to say the next words, opening your mouth, sighing, then finally: “I’m not leaving you.”

    “Why would you be leaving?” He said, confused, taking it literally. Or, he pretended to be confused. It had made his heart warm with affection.

    What Jotaro hadn’t noticed at that moment was that his eyes seemed to gloss over with wet tears while talking about his father. He wasn’t over it, you understood that. How could he be? He was so young then, he probably didn’t understand what was happening or why and now that he’s a father himself, there had to be so much guilt about being the same way. It was only now that he was realizing how much you had an effect on him.

    It didn’t make him sad, by any means but... loved. He’ll say thank you tomorrow with a gift or some flowers. He hadn’t planned on meeting you for the rest of the week because he was busy, but work could wait, right? Yeah. Tomorrow.

God, it would take so long for him to get you to move in together. He’s so used to living on his own that I think he’s a little self-conscious about it. He’s not a slob by any means, but certainly a bachelor. I mean, he lived (assumedly) on his own from probably around or earlier than DiU right up until Stone Free, so it’s been a while and he’s certainly comfortable with his mess of clothes lying on the floor in the corner, but you won’t be. He cleans up before people come over, obviously, but how many times did he actually invite someone in?

When you start staying around more, he starts cleaning more, which makes him a little frustrated both coming to terms with liking someone enough that he’s actively cleaning for them once a week and also discovering that he’s a lot more gross than he thought. You would not believe how stained the counter was from coffee or how gross the filter was on the coffee maker. He takes his coffee very seriously. You begin to notice how clean everything is, well, how consistently clean everything is and it even starts to smell nicer, more floral and fresh. He bought a lavender air freshener. “It’s supposed to be calming,” he’ll say with a hint of annoyance. It’s not a bad smell to him, better than vanilla air fresheners, but it does give him a headache when he first sprays his place. You seem to like it though, so he’s willing to put up with it.

I honestly believe this man can cook, but nervous when cooking for other people. His food when he was a bachelor was good enough for him and I’m sure Holly would have shown him a lot too, but it’s not the best food. He definitely steps up his game when you’re over and even more so when you move in. He’s better with dishes that have pasta or noodles because it’s easy, but he’s not too bad behind the grill either.

When you guys finally live together, he tries to keep the cooking even, with you cooking some days and him doing the rest, but I honestly feel like unless you are a hazard in the kitchen, you would do most of it.

Jotaro would be like that with most things around the house partly because he doesn’t want you to do all the work if you don’t want to but he enjoys having a little more time to himself to either do work or... yeah, it’s just work. There are a few things that he’ll never make you do because it’s either too hard or he’s built up a routine of doing that thing a certain way and he’s convinced no one else will do it right. Like his laundry. He won’t let anyone else clean his clothes. He tried once and nothing dried right, he swears that his jacket is still damp to this day. You can fold his stuff or hang it up, but he’s running the washing machine and dryer. Also picky about how his office is cleaned.

If you asked and gave a legitimate reason for not doing a certain chore, he’ll do it, but be prepared with an excuse as to why you can’t wash the dishes or fold the laundry. He’s especially resistant if he’s working whether that be gathering information for the Speedwagon Foundation or editing his latest Marine Biology book.

Actually, can we just talk about how much this man hates folding laundry? It’s so pointless to him. Why fold it and put it into neat little piles when you’re just gonna rummage through the drawer and mess everything up? Sure, it looks nice, I guess, but not for long. He was for sure a floordrobe kind of guy, especially in his early years. He knows which ones are clean, it’s fine, just leave it. Of course, he would get better the longer you’re at his place, but still. It’s not that he’s lazy, he’s just busy and putting clothes away takes way too fucking long. (which, honestly, agreed.)

Date nights with Jotaro are... rare. I mean, you live with him, why would he want to go out and pay for something when he could do the same thing at home? They’re nice, of course, but it’s more common for him to take you out to dinner while you guys are on vacation or in a location other than home, because he doesn’t feel like cooking and it’s more special when you’re supposed to go out. Eventually, it clicks in that you are supposed to make each other feel special and will surprise you with an expensive dinner or a short cruise. If you suggest the aquarium he’ll think you’re just saying that because he’s into aquatic wildlife, but honestly doesn’t put up much of a fight and will answer any questions you or anyone else has about the fish.

He does enjoy a good relaxing movie (or documentary) night at home, though. It’s so nice to finally be finished work, settle into your super comfy couch and just chill until he gets tired. Even better when you’re lying on top of him with your head just under his chin. There’s something so soothing about smelling your perfume, shampoo, conditioner, cologne, etc. To just smell you so close to him and feel your weight. Aaah. So nice.

    The microwave beeps faintly from the kitchen signalling that popcorn was done. You trailed out soon after, tossing the bowl to mix around the butter. You smile sweetly at him, leaning down to plant a gentle kiss on Jotaro’s lips before settling into his lap, nestling your head just under his while stretching out your legs. His arm instinctively moves from the back of the couch to drape over your back, rubbing circles into it with his thumb.

    He sighs; relaxed, finally. He allows himself to kiss your forehead, closing his eyes for a moment, just basking in your comfort. When he opens his eyes, he pulls you closer to him, feeling your heart beat almost in time with his. It was moments like these that eased his panic of losing you. You were here in his arms, safe and sound and vice versa. He was safe in yours.

Yeah, he’s a little angsty. But, can you blame him? He’s getting better, though. With help, of course. With you being around so often (and being very adamant that you’re not going anywhere) he’s able to let go a little. He’s not perfect, by a long shot and progress is slow, but it’s the little things like these that makes you proud of how far he’s come.

PDA is common, but a little restricted. When you’re out together, Jotaro’ll always have his hand on your back or shoulder. Hand-holding isn’t really a thing for him, but he will make sure you know he’s there. He’ll kiss you in public, but it’s not nearly as intimate or special as when you’re at home. Still, it’s a sweet reminder that he loves you, seeing as words of affection aren’t really his thing.

I mean, he can express himself just fine, but he still gets a little nervous saying things like ‘I love you.’ It’s more along the lines of ‘I care about you.’ Or, well. “of course, I care about you. You wouldn’t be here if I didn’t.” Which... thanks. I think.

Kissing him is so nice, so you’re not too mad about him doing that instead of words. When Jotaro kisses you it’s full of a mix of emotions. Mostly caring, but on his rough days, there’s something else there. It could be worry or whatever the emotional equivalent of never letting you go is. You can always tell that he wants it to last a little bit longer. There’s something in the sad look in his eyes when he or you has to pull away. Sometimes he’s overly gentle like he’ll break you somehow, especially if you’re not a stand user or fighting-inclined (whether physical or otherwise). It’s not patronizing, or at least he tries not to be patronizing, he just prefers you safe.

    It started out simple enough. You and Jotaro were just sitting at the table, eating dinner when he got this... sinking sort of feeling. There was something in the silence between you that just sent his mind spiralling. Thoughts of you someday dying too soon for whatever reason or leaving him because he’s not there enough, stand users, car crashes, divorce. They all started to flood into his mind, fabricating that you would somehow be taken away from him.

    “Jotaro? Are you okay?” Your voice rings through; a bright light breaking the storm. He’s been staring at his plate for a while now, his eyes are dry and itchy. He looks at you and tries to say something, but the words don’t come. Is he okay?

    You stand up and walk over to him, cupping his face gently. You rub the dark circles under his eyes while kissing his forehead. Jotaro slowly wraps his arms around you, letting his face fall into your hands. You’re pulled into his lap after a few minutes, running your fingers through his hair next. Finally, he sighs, burying his face in the crook of your neck.

    “Thank you,” he mumbles and though you’re not quite sure why, you still say a quiet you’re welcome, silently soothing him through whatever happened.

If you couldn’t tell, he needs a lot of reassurance. Not so much words, but actions like the snippet above. I mean, he can be as strong as he wants but we all know he’s got some baggage and while he’s able to put it aside, for the most part, I think when you’re at home he’s just a little more vulnerable.

Now, onto happier things! If you like coffee or tea, he will always make you a cup in the morning. Jotaro is a very early riser except on the weekends, so he usually gets that done while reading or watching the news and when you come down, he’ll ask if you want breakfast then make it for you seeing as he’s more awake.

He loves coffee. So much. He might have a caffeine addiction, honestly. At all times of every day, you can see him with a black coffee in hand and a book or phone in the other. He will switch to decaf at some point, but you might have to switch it for him. He’s forgetful when he gets busy.

Sleeping in on the weekends is like heaven for him. The two nights (or more on holidays) that he gets a full nights rest, breakfast in bed and a warm soul to cuddle into. He’s usually big spoon with a hand just resting on your side, but please, for the love of god make him the little spoon once a week. Will never admit it or vocalize wanting it. He just grabs your hand and drapes it over him with a “good night” and then promptly passes out.

He’s a heavy sleeper but doesn’t sleep often. Once he’s out, there is nothing that could wake him up except the fire alarm or something like that. It just takes a while. Not because of trauma, but more just internal clock is delayed.

Not a bath guy, strictly showers ���cause they’re quicker. Most of the time he’s in and out before you can invite him into yours. When you do he’s “reluctant” but showers with you are a favourite of his. He gets his hair washed for him (if he bends down), he can wash you. It’s great.

I don’t think he would want more kids. He’s getting older, busier and just doesn’t think he has the time to care for a baby, even with help. Plus, if they were anything like Joylne or god forbid him when he was younger, he might start greying sooner than he thought. Joylne is a great kid, but... she’s definitely got some of his defiance in him. One kid is fine.

He doesn’t really like pets either, hates when there’s fur on all the furniture. But, if you came home with a stray cat or two, he’s not gonna put up a fight if you say they’re not going to the pound. “Just as long as you take care of them yourself.”

You got him a betta fish once because Jotaro. Fish. Makes sense. He thought it was a little pointless at first. You can’t pet them or play fetch (not like he does those things anyway). All a fish does is sit there and look pretty. You were a little disappointed, but whatever, you’ll take care of it. Then he comes home one day with a 30-gallon tank, freshwater plants and fancy lighting to help them grow which he quietly sets up in the living room. He spent at least a half-hour deciding on where to put it.

A week later, after he’s pleased with how it looks and the tank has been cycled he puts in an order for more fish then lets your betta acclimate to the tank. “There, he’ll be happier in here. The idea of bettas not enjoying or panicking in larger tanks is a myth. He won’t be alone for long anyway. He also won’t kill everything in the tank.” Well, he hopes he won’t, each fish is different. Thankfully, the small school of tetras get along with your betta just fine. From then on, he’s in there once a week, cleaning everything, trimming the overgrowth. It is officially his tank.

[le-poor-writer]

By the Counter [2/2] (Bartender!Diluc x F!Reader)

If you haven’t read part 1, I recommend you do so first. If you did, enjoy my lovelies!

Diluc Ragnvindr, sole heir to the Ragnvindr family after his father died of heart disease years ago. He was an only son, with Kaeya Alberich being the family's ward. Diluc inherited Dawn Winery, a wine empire passed down from generation to generation which was and still is famous for their Dandelion Wine. He also runs Angel's Share, a once small bar opened by the late Crepus. Being a wine tycoon at such a young age, certainly made him well known despite people not knowing what he actually looked like. Rumour has it that he is very much indeed handsome and charismatic, making him to be one of the most sought out bachelors in the country much to his annoyance.

Although now he does wish his title as an 'eligible bachelor' serves its purpose now than ever. Marching with confident strides into Angel's Share despite how nervous he actually is. He didn't plan to take a shift tonight. No, he actually had other plans. One which did not go as how he hoped it would be. Well he should have known better than to take suggestions from Kaeya. Kaeya of all people, Archons! But Albedo too thought it would be a good idea. But then again one should know that Albedo is only interested to see how well it would go rather than hoping how well it actually goes. In summary, it is inefficient to have someone else to handle your personal affairs especially when it came to matters of the heart.

There by the counter, her figure sitting alone. Head resting on her hand while the other twirling a wine glass. Looking as bored as an idle lass during a warm midsummer afternoon. Eyes glazed, whether it be from alcohol or her simply lost in thoughts. It better not be the former, she doesn't have much tolerance for such beverages. He suppose he should warn the staff not to give her too much... But it would raise suspicions for the master to deny income and would certainly provide gossip for them. But then again he may or may not be obvious in his affections for her. Even Elzer commented on how his expression seem to soften these days. Dear Archons, he really is in love isn't he? Which is why he will fix this mess right now.

~~~~

It all started a few days ago. On a Wednesday night.

"Diluc, it's been a while since I last saw you." Albedo greeted. Taking his usual seat where he can see and chat with him. "You rarely come down on Wednesdays now."

"Hmph." was all the bartender replied as he proceeded to prepare the customer's usual.

"Well I heard from the people here that the master would come on Friday nights instead. And he often appeared to be in a very pleasant mood." Kaeya cuts in as he glided to a seat beside Albedo.

"Well what brings you here, Kaeya." the red-head giving him a stink eye. "Got dumped by another fling?"

"There are many reasons one has to drink on weekdays aside from getting dumped by a fling, Master Diluc. One example is to hear stories of another's fling." Ice cold eyes sneering at the red fiery ones.

Diluc placed down Albedo's drink. Sighing under his breath as he grabbed another glass to prepare Kaeya's usual. "She's not a fling." he muttered.

"Dear Archons, is the lone eagle Diluc Ragnvindr craving for the presence of another?"

"And are you here to cause a nuisance?"

Kaeya put his hands up, admiting he might just stoked the fire too much. "There's no need to call the security on me again. I came for my usual, Dawn Winery's infamous Dandelion Wine as you have already prepared in your hand."

If it weren't unsightly, Diluc might have just poured the bottle of wine on Kaeya's smug grin. However he knew there was some truth to what he was saying. He was craving for (y/n)'s presence these days. Hers is the dawn to his dark night. The promise of future warmth to his cold past. Her gentle cheerfulness and kindness reminiscent of the sounds of tinkling bells brought out by the light wind. Just pleasant and homely. The embodiment of lovely itself. Diluc scoffed. Look at him, speaking in sonnets now. It was a good thing he kept these thoughts to himself. God forbid Kaeya gets a hold of more substance to mock him.

"I'm actually here for a reason more than a drink." Albedo spoke up after silently observing the spectacle for quite some time. "My parents and I enjoyed the lunches and dinners we had with you the other day. And the idea of having Dawn Winery's owner as their son-in-law tickles their fancy. My father, from a business perspective as you might be aware and my mother, from a social standing perspective. Hence, what I'm saying is that they'd like you to meet their daughter- my sister, for a marriage arrangement."

Diluc did not look surprised from Albedo's perspective. Well if the slightly raise eyebrows were anything to go by at least. "You're not glad?"

It's not that he isn't happy. He was ecstatic even. However, (y/n) wouldn't like that. She had been so happy that her mother wasn't angry at her for the dinner fiasco. Also the fact that her mother hadn't been setting her up with anybody. With every visit on Friday night, she beamed so radiantly that he didn't have the heart to tell her it was him who caused it all. He wanted to tell her after the first luncheon he had with her parents but didn't get to as their conversation tended to steers towards getting to know each other's personality, her childhood and their likes and dislikes. By the end of their rendesvouz, he had forgotten about his intention. And he forgot about it again up to till the point where he didn't know how to tell her. What would (y/n) think of him now that he had been secretly (albeit unintentionally) meeting her family behind her back?

All this he confessed to Albedo begrudgingly. It was not like him to not have a plan. But Archons did this lady turned his world upside down. "I think I should tell her, this Friday."

"And I think, you shouldn't." Kaeya interrupted. Pouring himself another glass as he earned a sharp glare from Diluc. "You've come this far, might just go through it till the end. Besides, being all secretive is one of your fortes isn't it?" Also, Kaeya thinks she might be in love with him as he is to her. But he's not going to tell him that. Diluc should be getting those answers from her, not him.

Diluc glanced at Albedo. Hoping to get an insight from someone of her kin.

"(Y/n) loves surprises. But I don't guarantee if she'll like this one or not. But I suppose there is no harm to this. Regardless whether she like it or not, she's not one to disobey mother. So she will most definitely be dragged to this dinner." In all honesty, Albedo just wanted to see how it all unfolds. Sure she likes small cute surprises, but what about big life changing ones?

He had a bad feeling about this. Somewhere at the corner of his mind, a tiny Diluc lecturing him how bad of an idea this is. But Diluc has nil experience in relationships. He never had the time for it. Always occupied with maintaining the family legacy and fending off people predating on the Ragnvindr empire. He was living in a lonely world. Hence when she came into his life, bringing the sunshine with her, he didn't feel so alone anymore. Which is why he didn't want to mess this up. He nodded towards the two gentlemen with a sigh.

Come Friday as he bartends by the counter. Waiting nervously for the lady of the hour. And in she came with an obvious frown on her face. Whatever it is, this seems to call for a Dirty Shirley cocktail. She likes soda after all. Quietly she took her place, greeting him with a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. Accepting the drink with a small thank you. It went on like this for a good half an hour. Both basking in each other's presence. Diluc serving his clients and (y/n) just watching him work over her drink. The clinking of glass, soft chatters of the patrons and light jazz music serving as white noise for them.

"It seems that my mother had plans after all."

Here it is.

"She was being acquainted by some gentleman. Very rich and successful than the last time. Which very much tickle her fancy."

Funny how her use of vocabulary is similar to her brother's.

"I'd hate to go to be honest. But it's not like mother will listen when she has already set this up. Heck it is tomorrow and she's only told me yesterday. I wish I could be like you. Not giving a damn about what people say. Making decisions for your own self."

"Why not just attend it." He suggested. As much Diluc would like to admit that he's the one she's meeting tomorrow, Kaeya and Albedo thought it was better otherwise. And he would have to trust what they say.

"Excuse me?" it was clear that she was offended.

"Who knows if this person really is better than the last? Maybe your mother did find a good match. And if you don't like it, you can just reject the man."

"Diluc, you do understand that me going to this dinner would be as good as me being engaged. I've told you didn't I, that corporate families like mine would have set this in stone regardless of what I think and this could only be annulled if both our families see no benefit to our union. Or if during the course of courting, we act like complete oil and water then I suppose they might consider calling it off. "

"I'm sure it'll be fine. You'll just have to disagree with everything he says then." He said reassuringly.

She looked at him dejectedly, voice faltering. "Is that all you have to say?"

Diluc was struck by confusion. What did she want him to say? With how sad she looked, he has the strongest urge to hold her hand. He wanted to tell her everything will be fine, because it will be him that she's meeting. But because it will be him that he's scared. What if she's not interested in him like he thought and if she knew that tomorrow they'll be meeting, she'll reject him now. But if she really doesn't like him, then isn't it crueler to force her like this? He hadn't thought that when Albedo hinted at him to contact their parents. All he could think of that time was not wanting to lose to her to someone else. He wanted to say something but his throat feels congested.

"Sorry, it seems I have other matters to attend." she lied. Turning her back to him and left with haste. Knowing the fact that he knew she lied.

~~~~

10 minutes before the dinner. Diluc sat in a private dining room together with his supposedly future in-laws. He fumbled with the left cuff of his dress shirt a little as they chatted about future business prospects. Albedo will be arriving late as he has another appointment before. He will also go with (y/n) inside when he arrives so Diluc could only assume she is waiting dreadfully outside. He's nervous at what she'd thought of him later. Will she be glad? Or mad?

"Mother, father, have you been waiting long." Albedo enters the room and went to kiss his mother's cheeks. He nodded towards his father and then Diluc. Taking his seat beside Diluc, he look around the table then at the door. "Where's (y/n)?"

"(Y/n)?" his mother's smile was straining. "I thought we agreed that you'd escort her in?"

"She wasn't outside, so I thought she went in already."

Silence settled upon the room.

It was cut short when a waiter entered the room. "Pardon me, I have a note for a Mr. Albedo, from a Miss (y/n)."

Before Albedo could read the folded note, his mother snatched it away from him. Skimming through it with frantic eyes before letting out a distressed wail. He took the note and read it. He wasn't laughing, no. But it was evident from Diluc's eyes that he was amused. Albedo passed the note that his darling sister wrote to Diluc.

Dearest mother, I love you so but I've had it with your arrangements. I refuse to marry this mere unknown wine tycoon whom you had set me up with for I am in love with a humble bartender. And no one can stop me. Sincerely, (Y/n)

Diluc was at the very least, baffled. He did not expect (y/n) to exhibit this level of rebellious display. And while he did feel somewhat offended to be called a mere unknown wine tycoon, he was very much flattered that she is in love with him, a humble bartender. Which brings the question, he never really did tell her that he is of the owner of the biggest winery industry and the bar that he bartended, didn't he? The story of his childhood stopped at the fact that his father died and he had an annoying adopted brother. She never asked anything more about his familial background, instantly shifted to personal interests instead.

"Oh how could our only daughter do this to us?" the mother sobbed. Snapping Diluc out of his thoughts.

"I'm really sorry to have cause you such distress ma'am." Diluc bowed his head. "If you'll excuse me, allow me to go fix this situation." he left swiftly, leaving behind the confused stares of the parents and an entertained Albedo.

Which brings him to the current situation.

After 5 minutes of standing by the sidelines, he was sure she's drunk. "(Y/n), what are you doing here?" he kept his voice steady.

"Ooh Diluc!" (Y/n) grinned. "Aren't you looking dapper today?"

"You were supposed to be at dinner."

"Did my brother sent you to look for me?" she poured another glass of wine. "Maybe I shouldn't have written that note.."

Diluc took away the bottle from her, earning scowl. "That's enough (y/n)."

"NO!" she yelled. Getting stares from the other people in the bar. Her words appeared to slur a little. "I need more for courage!"

"What would you need courage for?" Diluc inhaled. Trying to calm her down as to not disturb the other patrons. She has already done a lot, what more does she plan to do?

"A confession." she fixated her gaze on his stoic eyes, but if she leaned a little closer she might just hear how loud his heart is. "Dearest bartender of a humble background, I am but a spoiled girl from a rich family. But I love, love and loveee you so. It is almost silly that I do but it is what it is. I do not care to look for riches and success in a man, hence I will not marry that Ragigindir wine tycoon that my mother has set me up with. I want you instead, if you will have me Mr. Diluc... uh... Diluc..."

"Ragnvindr." he look at her, deadpanned. "It's Diluc Ragnvindr."

"What?"

That seemed to sober her up. Followed by the sound of glass breaking. Oh well, it's not like he will charge her for that. But hold up. Mr. Ragnvindr is the name that her mother mentioned. And Diluc's surname is....

"WHAT?"

How is it that after knowing him for more than a month, she knew his hobbies, his favourite drink, his birthday, but she did not know his surname?!

"(Y/n)-"

"How is it you never told me your last name?"

"Well, I apologize it slipped my mind. I know I should've told you. But, you never asked-"

"And you never asked for mine!"

"You are Albedo's sister so of course I already knew."

"Oh." He's got a point there. "But still," there was something that must be addressed. "was it all fun and jokes for you that you met my family already, without me knowing. Was it fun to watch me suffer yesterday?"

Oh no, she's mad. "No, it wasn't. I didn't mean to hide things from you. I wanted to tell you from the start. I was interested in you from our first meeting and I didn't know if you felt the same. And it got harder for me to tell you as time progressed. Albedo did tell me to be quick if I didn't want your mother to set you up with someone else. He and my brother thought I should only tell you today when we are formally acquainted. But all of this is still inexcusable and I can only hope for your forgiveness."

(Y/n) swears she will stab her brother later. And really, what is it with her family members interfering with her love life. But she'll deal with that later. First she must face what is in front of her. As much as how furious she is with the whole situation, she understands this to be a series of misunderstandings and miscommunications. And knowing that, she can't seem to stay mad for long.

"I forgive you. For now."

"Thank you."

"Archons, this a whole mess. How do I even begin to clean up?"

"I suggest we both go meet your parents, and explain the situation as briefly as we can. I can imagine they wouldn't be too keen to know I've approached their only daughter through informal means. Although, I'm sure Albedo has something up his sleeves. Even if he doesn't, your father doesn't seem to want to let go of a potential lifelong partnership. And I heard that your mother started talking to her friends about our union."

"True." she slipped her hand into his as they walk out of the bar.

"And I suppose you should start to learn how to pronounce my last name. It will be yours after all."