#but Ruin would appreciate their efforts regardless

[bloo-the-dragon]

I love how you portray Ruin in both Mer AU's, because I also have something that hinders my ability to walk (or move in Mer!Ruin's case)! Not to the extent of needing crutches, I can walk just fine, just mostly affects me if I'm on my feet for long periods. Rarely has it hurt as soon I start walking. Sometimes I could walk for an hour and feel nothing even! It's only temporary as long as I sit for a good bit. It might get worse as I get older though.. but oh well lmao. Pardon me for the long ask

Aww i'm glad you enjoy him!! Mer!Ruin can walk without crutches for the most part, but if his pain gets too much then his legs will just up and disappear because it's too painful to keep them out. He's not able to use a wheelchair either because he can't sit on his tail the way humans do. But Eclipse is quite comfortable to carry him when needed!

It would be a similar situation even if he was in the water too - if the pain becomes too much then he won't be able to swim. He could only drag himself around the seabed using his hands at best, not too unlike how he does on land. He'd spent a lot of days in his past curled up in a rocky cave or hidden in small kelp forests when he had those flares then. Presently if he had a flare come on while out swimming then Sols would help guide him back to shore or Eclipse's boat depending. So would Loon and the Peas when they're older and bigger!

[thewritetofreespeech]

Castlevania: Valentine's Day

---------🏵️----------

Alucard: Orange Blossom - eternal love, good fortune, marriage

Once, when Alucard was a boy, he witnessed his father present his mother with a whole drawing room of flowers to prove his love. It had been beautiful and lush. Flowers from all over the world nestled in it. Some medical for her work. Some just pretty to look at.

Alucard didn’t think he could top that, but he would make every effort to try.

“I cleared this away for you.” He said as he showed you the patch of dirt he had clear cut, tilled, and set up a small fence to keep the animals at bay. “You asked for a place to grow some fruits and vegetables for the villagers. This is your place now.” Your generosity and kindness had been what won Alucard over in his heart. He wanted to show you that your efforts mattered. That they were appreciated. That he would give you the world if only you would ask, and yet you only asked for a simple plot of earth. “And this is to help you get started.”

He produced a small orange sapling to give to you. Even as a young tree of just a few branches, the orange blossoms fragrant in the crisp morning air. “We’ll keep it in the castle for now but come next year it will bear fruit right here. And we will watch it grow together.”

Your smile felt like the first frost had suddenly melted. He looked forward to more smiles in the future. Watching this tree, and their love, grow.

-------🌷----------

Trevor: Pink Tulip - affection, love, tulips; general meaning of forgiveness

“Come oooon. You can’t still be mad at me.” Trevor whined as he followed behind you through the streets.

He knew he had messed up. Not usually one for romance, Trevor still knew that Valentine’s Day was a big one for couples (which was why he was usually two towns over by the time the holiday came around). Not with you, of course. He just genuinely forgot the date as there wasn’t a lot of time to check the calendar when your life was in danger.

“I said I was sorry, but I really didn’t think you would be into….all this.” He waved his hand around to all the fake sappy displays with fake papier-mâché hearts. “Once you’ve had a real heart in your hand, the décor sort of loses it’s effect.”

Trevor sensed he wasn’t getting anywhere with you. Your cold shoulder turning into a full cold back as you refused to turn around. So he realized he would have to fall on his sword and go for the big guns.

“Look, I’m sorry.” He said again after side-stepping in front of you to cut off your path. “I’m an idiot. But you knew that when you linked up with me. Still, I will try to be more romantic in the future.” He reached out to pluck a single pink tulip from a stall. Bringing it to his lips to hide his devilish smirk before offering it to you. “Forgive me?”

“Hey! You have to pay for that!”

Trevor sighed and glared at the stall owner. “You are literally ruining this for me my guy.”

----------🌼------------

Richter: Daisies - Innocence, Loyal love

Richter was broke. Broker than usual, to be precise.

The life of a vampire hunter was not one that paid well, if at all, so Richter was used to living frugally. But with times as they were, people starving as they cried out for change, his coffers were even more barren then usual. He only had enough for necessities for the two of you right now, and even that was stretching it.

Usually, it wouldn’t bother Richter so much. He could get by with the minimum. This time of year, however, he wished he had more than 2 livres to rub together so he could get you something for Valentine’s Day.

It was your first one together. That seemed important. Richter might not know a lot about romance, but he at least knew that much. Plus, regardless of the holiday, he wanted you to know how much you meant to him. How much you being in his life kept him fighting and hoping.

Window shopping with his empty coin purse, the young Belmont sighed as he looked at the jewels through the glass. He wished he could get you something like this. Something beautiful. Something nice. His eyes landed on one necklace in the window and he paused. It was a flower necklace. Delicate gold spun to look like leaves with white pearl petals along the neckline in intricate webbing. He suddenly perked up and raced out of the city to the hillside past the gates.

Later that night, he came back to the room at the inn the two of you were sharing and shyly offered you his gift. “It’s not much.” He cautioned. Watching you unwrap the resmoothed paper he had found and finding a flower chain within. “But my mother taught me how to make them when I was a boy. She said there was protection magic in them. I think she just liked them.” Carefully picking up the chain of daisies from your hand, Richter placed them around your neck. Smiling as he watched them rest there. “Beautiful.” Hesitantly, he leaned in to kiss you. Happy when you lean in to kiss him back.

It might not be much, but it was all he had. And Richter would give you all he had for the rest of his days.

[k-zuzulibrary]

스트레이키즈

b.C, l.MH, k.SM, i.N 𖹭 gn!reader

my enemy.

synopsis: they eventually give in after years of hatred, rivalry, and built-up tension only to get caught by another member.

content: (seperate) bang chan, lee know, seungmin, i.n x gn!reader, enemies 2 what?, suggestive themes/smut 18+ (minors do not interact), making out, grinding, no genitalia or pronouns specified for the reader but you are the bottom and exhibit bottom behavior, sexual frustration, fingering/handjob in bang chan's, masturbation, penetration, bratty!reader, getting caught, mean dom!lee know, reader is called a 'pretty princess' in lee know's, hair pulling, edging, name calling in i.n's, traumatized skz witnesses, self explanatory, not proofread, lowercase intended.

zuzu's note: maybe this should be a series... i wrote them with a reader who can't get along with them (and vice versa) because... well, that's kind of how enemies work. part 2 here!

channie.

you never liked chan. he wasn't at your pace — too hard working, too selfless, too self deprecating. you were annoyed by the fact that he never took care of himself, and so you avoided him regardless of how you shared the same friend group. you didn't like surrounding yourself with "negative" people like him.

chan on the other hand, didn't like you because he thought you were a rude person — you wouldn't say please, you wouldn't say thank you, you actively ignored him/pretended you didn't hear him even when he spoke to you. he didn't care if you were nice to him, he just didn't like rude people.

it wasn't known that you two were enemies — it was unspoken between you and chan, and nobody in the group took notice because you never really talked, and so, when you two were the only ones left to watch over the dorm while the rest went back to family homes or their own secret affairs, what bang chan didn't expect was to hear small moans emerging from your bedroom late at night.

you knew he wouldn't be asleep at this time. he never slept. he was always working on something with his headphones on and you were feeling really sexually frustrated at the time. you assumed for sure he wouldn't be able to hear you if you struggled a bit, but unlike you expected, he heard every bit of it, and as much as he hated it, it turned him on more than he'd like to admit.

you weren't getting anywhere with your efforts, and when you heard a knock on your door it this time of night, it could only have been one person and that ruined your entire mood. "what?" you groaned. not getting your hand out of your pants because you knew chan wouldn't just walk in and you might as well have continued what you were doing the moment he would walk away from your room.

"...so, i'm trying to work on something, but your... noises aren't exactly helping me concentrate."

you blushed and immediately withdrew your hand, immediately sitting up. you didn't know how to respond and it was silent for a good few seconds.

"s-so i would appreciate it if you... um... i- i don't know, lowered it... a bit... thanks."

with that, you heard his footsteps fade away and retreat into his own dorm next to yours. you let out the large sigh you had been holding in and wondered how you would ever go back to sleep at this rate. or how you'd ever be able to masturbate in peace again.

you didn't know why, or where you even got the courage to, but you found yourself knocking on chan's door just moments after what happened. sure, you were embarrassed but you only had little of your dignity left and might as well have lost it all when he opened the door with a small crack and curiously looked at your nervous form.

"would it be alright if you... h-helped me?" you asked with a soft voice, bang chan stared at you, expression unwavering. to clarify, you stumbled over your next words. "i have been struggling lately, and—"

bang chan grabbed your wrist and dragged you into his room, slamming the door behind you.

"and what do i get in return?" bang chan asked, voice gruff as he stared deeply into your eyes.

"...my silence for the next few weeks?" you attempted to make a deal.

"so i'll have to do this every time you're frustrated? just so i can work?" he clarified.

"does it sound like something you wanna do?"

"i guess we'll have to see first."

bang chan gently led your form to his bed, slamming you down and pinning you against the soft mattress, his hand rubbing down at your croch. you didn't know why but something about hating him up until this very moment was what turned you on most. without any more words, bang chan put his hand down your pyjamas the same way you had tried all night and continued to pleasure you better than you ever could have. if he hated you so much, why was he so good at making you feel loved?

"f-fuck, i'm so close." you whimpered, gripping onto the sheets beneath you as bang chan picked up his pace.

"yeah? you getting there, baby?" his hand never got tired. "d'you wanna do this all night?" why did he seem to enjoy pleasuring you like you enjoyed being pleasured? the mere thought brought you so close to your climax. "i could go all night, baby." he whispered in your ear, and with that, you pathetically came into your pants and on chan's big, rough hand.

you slowly turned your face to look at him, "i could go for a round 2—"

"hey, chan, i decided to come back early-" you both turned to see lee know who nonchalantly walked into the room, eyes glued to his phone as he set his bag down on the ground. chan quickly withdrew his hand from your pants, wiping it on his shirt as he stood up and walked around the side of the room while you sat up on the mattress, fixing your hair and looking at the oh-so-interesting floor. lee know looked up from his phone.

"oh, hi, y/n. what are you doing here?"

you nervously exchanged glances with chan and gulped before you could shrug and form a lie—

"oh my g- you guys fucked." lee know deadpanned, pointing at you, then chan, then you. "disgusting." he turned around and left the room. "chan's room reeks of sex now. this is totally going in the gc."

know.

it was easy to hate lee know. the moment you met him, you hated him in all sorts of ways — bad first impression, started off on the wrong foot, rubbed you off in the wrong way, and many more. you wanted to rip his guts out along with his cocky smirk, condescending voice, and dark gaze whenever he would make fun of you or judge literally anything you'd do.

lee know hated you because you were too pretty. you were too golden — everyone treated you like a princess and he hated it, he didn't think you deserved it. not that he was jealous or anything, he just believed you weren't worth all the effort and love the members gave you and assumed you were spoiled. your screaming matches were not uncommon in the dorms and lee know would always leave you stressed and pissed off to the point where you wanted to move out and he loved pushing you to that edge.

which is the exact reason you didn't know why he was pounding into you so good on the living room couch, your begs, moans, and mewls filling the silence of the dark, empty room.

"fuck," lee know cursed under his breath as he picked up his pace, you were clenching around his fat cock so good and after just a few thrusts, he was already so close to reaching his climax. "why are you so quiet now, hm? did the cat get your tongue?" he leaned in closer to put a soft kiss on your lips, prying them open and gently biting your tongue. "hm?" he pulled away.

it's that condescending 'hm' again that gets you. what used to irritate you so much turned you on right now even more.

"hngg...n.. pl- please..." you whimpered. "please, let me cum," you silently begged, voice being interrupted with each harsh thrust lee know pushed into you, you were getting closer and closer to cumming and you just wanted lee know to let you.

"oh, you're begging? that's so unexpected of a spoiled brat who always gets what they want." lee know abruptly pulled out and roughly grabbed your hair, pushing your head into the couch. "but you're not getting it tonight, understand?"

before you could form another response, another weak plead, a form had walked into the room and turned on the bright lights. "WOAAAAH, WHAT THE FUCK?!" bang chan screeched, you and lee know looked over to see him covering his eyes. "FOR GOD'S SAKE, PEOPLE, GET A ROOM." he sobbed and left the room in a rush. lee know chuckled a bit before getting off of you, zipping up, and walking back to his dorm.

"i guess we'll pick this up another time."

minnie.

you fucking hated kim seungmin. he was the bane of your existence and making fun of you was the entertainment of his. tripping you, judging your every major life decision and move, and overall making your life a living hell. today, you were at the dorm to rant to changbin about your recent breakup, and seungmin just had to be in the same room, making his coffee and listening on the conversation.

"you need to focus on yourself," changbin advised with a soft voice, gently rubbing your back as you gripped your hair in frustration. "i need to use the toilet real quick, be back." he left the room.

"what was it about you that's so unlovable?" seungmin suddenly inquired as he walked in the room leaning on the doorframe as he stirred his coffee. "is it because you're an asshole? or because you suck overall?... wait... oh, shittt." seungmin covered his mouth, standing up straight. "are you just straight up awful in bed?"

"dude, do you ever just shut the fuck up?" you slammed your hand on the table.

"if you ever need help to learn how to be better in bed, just know i'm right here to-"

"seungmin, i swear, leave the room right now before anything else happens. i'm not in the mood."

"y/n, no joke, i fuck." he placed his cup down on the table and sat in front of you, cross legged. "c'mon, what do you need help with?"

"it's not the sex-" you paused and started to think about it. "i...is it?" you tilted your head.

"come on," seungmin gestured for you to come to him, and subconsciously you found yourself doing so, crawling closer until you were in his lap. "what is it you need help with?" he repeated the earlier question, only this time he was softer, sweeter. unlike the seungmin you always knew.

you were nervous, so you just shook your head.

"use your words, baby." he whispered.

just as you were gonna respond to him, you felt his boner against yourself and you couldn't form a coherent thought. "i- i..." your voice was breathy and you tried to pry yourself off of him out of your anxiety, but his grip kept you in place. "i don't know..." you managed to say.

"can i kiss you?" he asked.

you nodded your head, and he gently connected your lips together in a silent bliss before deepening the kiss, he pulled away to mumble, "i'm gonna teach you a few things tonight." before smashing your lips back together. why is such an asshole so good at kissing? the whole situation turned you on to a point where you felt a little guilty, but you started slowly grinding on seungmin's hard-on, letting out small moans into his mouth.

"okay, y/n—" changbin walked into the room. "woah- woah," he rushed over and dragged you away from seungmin. "Y/N! I LEAVE YOU ALONE FOR TWO MINUTES AND YOU ALREADY TRY TO HOOK UP WITH YOUR ENEMY?!"

i.nnie

you and i.n constantly fought for the position of best maknae and it went from a harmless fight for the love of your seniors to a personal vendetta against one another. you would bicker over the pettiest stuff like getting the last of the juice or who gets to use the tv remote, but each argument would last from hours to days or even weeks before you find a new thing to be petty about and fight over.

today, what you were fighting over was different. the topic went from "who was the better kisser?" to "who was the best at having sex?"

"why? i've had many people tell me that i 'rock their world.' it's equal pleasure for both parties when i'm there, they don't have to fake it just as i don't." you argued.

"so what? words are words." i.n nonchalantly shrugged and disregarded your argument. "i bet you i can fake cumming if i fucked you." he blurted out.

"really? wanna bet?" you smirked, taking a step toward him. you could see him nervously gulp his saliva.

and that's how you ended up in his bed, with you sitting down on his fully hard cock. "shit." i.n whimpered. "i- i didn't know a- a slut like you could be so tight..." he held back his groan.

"awh... are you gonna cum already? i thought you could fake it..." you taunted as you bounced once on his dick.

"w-wait!" i.n leaned forward and grabbed your hips in place, looking down in between you and how you connected. "j-just wait." he whispered. you looked into each other's eyes for a moment before he used his strength to pull you off of him, he flipped you over and pushed his dick back inside you. "i wanna fuck you."

"hey— that wasn't the deal, i was supposed to be the one who-" i.n put his hand over your mouth and began pounding into you relentlessly, you wanted to interject but it felt too good.

"just tap me twice if you don't like it." he whispered and kept his hand over your mouth before slipping three of his fingers inside and playing with your tongue and saliva. the sound of skin slapping against skin filled the quiet room, i.n went faster and faster thrusting inside you. you whimpered against his fingers and he did his best to keep his moans quiet, only letting out occassional sighs and groans.

you could feel your high approaching and you could tell i.n was also reaching his with how his pace became inconsistent and a bit jittery. "sh...shit..." he whimpered as he came into you, and you were about to reach your climax as well when the door abruptly slammed open, causing i.n to stop his movement and you both snapped your heads toward the man standing in the frame — fucking seungmin.

"yo, hey, hEy, hEY, HEY, WHAT ARE YOU DOiNG?!" his voice cracked as he processed the sight before him, pointing at the two of you i.n leaned over and grabbed a pillow next to your head.

"GET OUT!" he yelled, reaching for the sheets to cover you up.

"GET OFF OF EACH OTHER FIRST!" seungmin made no effort in covering his eyes (for his or your sake) or lowering his voice as he stared, wide-eyed at the sight.

"GET OUT OF MY ROOM!"

˚ ༘ ೀ⋆.˚

main masterlist.

©️ 2025 k-zuzulibrary All Rights Reserved.

[gay-dorito-dust]

From HSR men, who is most likely to wear clothes that you’ve knitted or crocheted for them if you were their S/O?

Argenti would wear near enough anything you’d crocheted for him, he didn’t care if it was well made or had a couple of loose ends, he will wear it either way and with the upmost pride.

He treated anything you made him as though it were priceless treasures that could never be replicated as anything made by hands that weren’t yours didn’t hold the same sentiment.

He sings your praises so much and so often that many thoughts you’ve woven your gifts for him out of pure gold rather then the standard wool.

Them: it’s just a knitted rose cardigan, what’s so important about it?

Argenti: it’s not just a knitted rose cardigan, it’s a knitted rose cardigan my beloved had woven with their own hands with nothing but time and patience on their side, so it would be best to respect their craft for what it is.

Them: and what’s that?

Argenti: art

Aventurine could buy pretty much anything and yet the most priceless things in his possession were the things you’ve made him by your own hands.

He will try anything and everything you’ve made in the past and wear it as though it was apart of some latest fashion trend. He wears your hard work with pride and appreciation for the talent you possess.

You were possibly the only person to think of him whilst making clothes and little crochet trinkets that he now fiddles with his left hand whenever he was scared midst a high stakes gamble.

Aventurine doesn’t allow for anyone to touch the things you’ve made him, no matter what their relationship to him is as you made those things for him and him alone, that and he didn’t want others to tug on it roughly or handle it heavy handedly to the point it ruins the crochet peacock you made him.

The clothes and items you made for him along with anything else were his comfort items that he’s grown a deep attachment towards, and he would always try to keep them in pristine condition. You’ll never catch him without something you’ve made on him.

Welt Yang loves and cherished everything you e made for him and will always have it on him at all times whenever he needed to feel your presence close by when you’re apart.

It puts both his heart and mind at ease.

He wears the scarf you made him religiously but the moment where he had to engage in combat, he’s carefully peeling it off of him and tucking it away safely to prevent it from getting damaged.

He didn’t feel it was right to wear the scarf you spent hours working on during combat, where it would take one wrong move and ruin the whole thing.

Other than that Welt always wore anything you’ve made him as a silent expression of his thankfulness for you and the effort you put into everything you made. He loved them all equally, but nothing topped the dark brown/beige scarf you gifted him first.

The scarf had become a prominent article of clothing of Welt’s that it would become a main staple of his usual outfit, so much so to the point where people would easily recognise it’s absence should he ever take it off. That’s how often he wears it.

Gepard loves the sweaters that you knitted for him and would wear them no matter the weather.

It could be warm as shit and Gepard would still be wearing your sweaters regardless. Not because he felt as though he was expected to wear it, but because it had become his most favoured piece of clothing.

Serval and Lynx would mention about how he never seems to part from the light blue sweater with white snowflake deigns on it, and would ask whether or not this had anything to do with you; only to bear witness their brother’s face become red as a cherry as he attempted to find any excuse that would evade him of any answer all of their teasing.

He fails and his sisters -mainly serval- tease him restlessly for being puddy in your hands.

Gepard was more often seen in his armour due to his job but the moment he gets to be rid of it after a long day, he immeditly puts on the sweater you made for him and let’s out a audible sigh of relief as he then burrows his face into the soft, breathable fabric.

If anyone had asked where he go the sweater from he’d scratch the back of his head and say that the sweater was one of a kind, before adding on that you were the one who made it for him.

Needless to say it didn’t take much for any to know just how much he adored the sweater, from the way he spoke fondly, to the soft caressing the light blue sweater between his thumb and finger. He wasn’t as subtle as he liked to think he was.

[vickyzangels]

% “..but i kinda hope they catch us, anyway.”

# synopsis ; an anon asked for sfw and nsfw headcanons for tom but i accidentally deleted the ask while trying to fight for my life against tumblr because every time i added a border two other pictures would disappear tumblr i hope you fall down the stairs

# pairing ; tom kaulitz x reader

# word count ; 551

# tags ; nsfw further under “keep reading” (mdni)

a/n ; i’m gonna drop this first but i have a nearly finished smut oneshot literally sitting in docs rn if i get decent enough feedback on this i’ll drop it

sfw

y’all remember that interview where he said he’d “fall in love for only a night but that he’d be down for true love later”? yeah unfortunately that applied to you, too

this can go one of two ways, you work close to the band as staff or you were a fan at one of their concerts that for some reason has to keep coming back and tom took a visual liking to you

what goes down between you two after he first notices you is vague but tom keeps seeing you every time you’re around and you started weaseling your way into his head at every hour of the day

he’d never admit that though (yet), so he’s still gonna keep up his playboy act for a bit but you’re gonna pick up that he’s being closer to you like making small jokes with you and being a little nicer

god it took you so long but he finally let you squeeze through his shell enough to be relatively close friends for a while but this definitely became a “do i wanna know if this feeling flows both ways” situation

yes the feeling did flow both ways, too bad he was still a player and you didn’t wanna ruin anything so you just endlessly flirted with each other

i am 92% sure he came to you first at an afterparty absolutely wasted and told you in german “du bist so unglaublich schön und ich will dich so sehr.” you are so infuriatingly beautiful and i want you so bad.

unfortunately, bill had to translate for you

i’ve been talking a lot so i’ll try to sum up a relationship with him and add miscellaneous points

he makes an effort to act like a boyfriend in your relationship, like he doesn’t openly flirt with other people out of genuine respect for you

first date was something like you two staying over at one of your houses for the night like a sleepover or doing something in the city

he has never forgotten any important day for you. never. and on that topic, he’ll get gifts for those days nearly months in advance

he appreciates a person with aesthetic

i’m lying, tom would fall head over heels in love if you wear something even remotely close to his style

nsfw

tom is a dog, y’all have seen the way he talks about what he wants to do during sex but he’s the most respectful person someone could probably ever ask for, someone who wouldn’t hesitate to pause everything if you told him you felt a little uncomfortable

the type of guy to fake bang you from behind when you bend over to grab something.

he’d spit in your mouth, having you kneel in front of him and holding your jaw open by squeezing it then making you swallow it if you wanted to be touched at all

this almost isn’t a headcanon but he’s a tit guy, regardless of size he’d froth at the mouth just to hold them

there’s not a big dom/sub thing between you two but he’s a switch because i said so

y’all… his favorite position is doggy or prone bone doesn’t matter as long as he gets to pull you by your neck up to him

a/n ; wow. didn’t think i could write something like this but i have a lot more so lmk if i should make a part 2?

© ALL RIGHTS BELONG TO VICKYZANGELS. do not steal, repost, plagiarize, or use my work for anything.

[ireadwithmyears]

My Heart is Yours, and so are my Brothers

Pairing: Tbb Echo/fem reader

Word count: 6.5 K

Gift for: @eclec-tech for the @cloneficgiftexchange 2024 life day exchange

Prompt: clone asks reader to be part of his family

Tags/warnings: Light angst, emotional hurt/comfort, mentioned past familial issues/toxicity, (I tried to keep it vague), insecurities, domestic/romantic fluff, found family, soft and cosy life day feels

Summary: You have always felt like you don’t fit within your own family. Echo is determined to show you that in his, your place is not something you have to earn, and the love they show you is nothing short of unconditional. And if that takes you overworking yourself, a life day baking mishap, and your beloved scooping you up and offering out a helping hand as soon as you show signs of beginning to fall, well... sometimes, that’s just how it goes.

Authors note: This was written as a gift for Amber, who has become such a good friend to me and ironically, is also my usual beta. We had, actually, briefly joked and giggled over the idea of one of us being paired with the others prompts... until it actually happened. So, I would also like to thank Carol: @clonethirstingisreal for betaing this work. It was a huge relief knowing that you could step in for this one, as I didn’t want to ruin Amber’s surprise by making her also be the one who has to edit it, because how mean would that be? This story can also be read on my ao3(check pinned for link) and I truly had so much fun writing it. Dare I say, one of the writing highlights of my year 😉 if you enjoy, please consider dropping a reblog. Sharing is always so so appreciated, as well as comments. Happy holidays, and happy life day🎄❄️

Waking up to the piercing shriek of your smoke detector, you think, your brain still groggy and slow from your impromptu nap, is definitely not a good sign.

Your heart is pounding, rattling furiously within the confines of your chest, your mind and body still trying to comprehend going from out cold on the couch to frantically running around the kitchen like a maniac, swiftly opening the oven door to discover what is no doubt the source of the alarm’s high pitched wails

It’s only after using a hastily dampened towel to smother the flames, vigorously flapping it 

around to beat out the lingering smoke, that you’re still hammering heart rate finally begins to slow, and you allow yourself to take a drawn-out, steady breath, forcing yourself to calm as you anxiously peer into the oven.

You can tell, just from the acrid stench, that it’s bad. 

Still, you’re not prepared to find the batch of freshly made cookies, each patiently dusted with a generous helping of sugar so that each chocolate surface appears as if snowflakes had found their landing place there, are nothing but crumbling, blackened crisps against the stark white of the baking sheet in the tray.

You shouldn’t have sat down, you think, strangely detached as with shaky, oven mitt-covered hands, you remove the tray from the oven, setting it down on the counter and gazing at what was supposed to be your life day offering to Echo’s family, to express your gratitude at their generosity for inviting you to their festivities.

It meant more to you than they would ever know. 

They didn’t know that your own family looked down on you with disappointment. They didn’t know that you had fled to Pabu precisely with the intent to walk away from them in an effort to save yourself from more hurt. They didn’t know that you, stupidly and still with the embarrassing desperation of a child who might do anything to earn even just a smile of approval from those around her, want, need them to approve of you, and not just in the way that family members do because she’s their  brother’s partner, but in a way that feels like they genuinely like you, and actually want to have you around.

But regardless, they still showed up at your door. Hunter, who you’ve only shared passing greetings with and who has, up until this point, been virtually a mutual acquaintance, and Omega, who despite having only caught glimpses of her around the island when she takes her hound out for a walk, had beamed at you, bright eyed and familiar, as if you had known each other for years.

It had touched you, and Hunter’s evident warm and sincere invite to their Life Day celebrations had made you just as excited as it did become a source of anxiety over the following weeks.

Nights where you should have been sleeping, instead were spent tossing and turning, trying to plan out every aspect. What you would say, what you would do, what you would bring to express your thanks to them.

Well, here it was, you think, suddenly grim. All your planning had amounted to what was now laid out before you in a charred, stinking heap, served on a tray.

Perhaps, if you were thinking logically, you would have shaken your head, let out a sigh of discontent before dumping the burnt cookies into the compost, giving yourself five minutes to take a break, then rolled up your sleeves, set your shoulders, and jumped right back into making a second batch, being extra careful to pay attention, never straying from focussing on your task.

Unfortunately, though, you weren’t, at present, thinking logically in the slightest. Thanks to the lack of sleep you had so desperately tried to ignore until it creeped up on you when you had collapsed onto the couch once the cookies were in the oven, and the stubbornly persistent overwhelm that you had convinced yourself you weren’t actually feeling, which had worked, at least until now.

Until you look down once more to survey the mess that had come out of a whole afternoon’s work, that you had so diligently, with both nervous and eager anticipation, been fretting over to make the perfect gift, the façade of composure, of pretending that the anxiety that had been stirring in your stomach for weeks was, actually, just excitement, cracks. And once it does, it’s easy for the whole thing to come down, crumbling around you as if it’s as fragile as the chipped and breaking edges of the cookies on the tray in front of you.

So, instead of reacting reasonably, your actions fuelled by logic, your response is to turn, press your face into your baking apron, and burst into tears.

It’s silly, you know, from the very first sob that claws its way up your throat despite your valiant attempt to stop it, that your reaction is so, so unjustified given the situation. They’re just cookies. They just got burnt. A new batch can be made and somewhere, deep down, you know all of this. 

But well, your mother always had a habit of calling you overly sensitive as a child, punctuating that remark with a signature roll of her eyes. Your father would pipe up, in a tone that probably meant to sound more encouraging but just ended up coming across as condescending, “you need to grow some thicker skin, kid.”

This is solid, concrete proof that this particular piece of advice had never truly been heeded, or, if you’re honest, had never really been understood to begin with.

Your breath hitches in your throat, because the desire to push back the tide is still present, if not to stop, then at least to muffle, to not hear the discomforting, ugly sounds you make when you cry. Still, the tears fall, and quiet, broken whimpers and sniffles fall from your lips anyway.

And then, because apparently this day just seeks to prove how absolutely bad your luck is, Echo takes this moment to walk through the door of your shared small house.

You hear the sound of an umbrella being folded, boots being rhythmically stamped against the doormat as Echo steps inside, evidently trying to rid his boots of the dried mud that gets clumped together in the creases, so common this time of year on Pabu, and the quiet hiss of the door as it slides back into place behind him.

Then, in a murmur that carries from the small alcove into your kitchen, he calls your name and instantly, you freeze. For some reason, you believe that if you can just stand as still as possible, if you can bite down on your lip hard enough and not make a single sound, not even a breath, he won’t see you, won’t know that you still get upset and cry over little, seemingly inconsequential things like this, which is completely ridiculous, you know. But still, you’ve already established that right now, your actions are dictated by nothing more than pure instinct, and, at least today, your instinct is incredibly off target.

There’s a brief pause, the sound of Echo bending down, hastening to remove his boots, then a quick, light pitter patter of footsteps against the floor as he moves through the space to find you.

There’s a soft breath, an oh of realization as he steps through the threshold of the kitchen, standing completely still as he observes, pausing to take in, what must be, quite the sight before him. You, on the other hand, don’t look, don’t want to see the mixture of both pity and confusion that surely is displayed in his eyes. So you don’t, keeping your face covered with your hands, trying to make yourself as small as possible.

“Oh, cyar,” he breathes, and his voice isn’t mocking or disappointed or underlined with the sharp bite of disapproval, but instead it’s soft. It’s warm and smooth which only serves to remind you of the honeyed hue within his golden eyes whenever he looks at you and it’s soft, so warm, and so soft that your resolve melts in the sincere, empathetic face of it, and you’re moving towards him before he’s even finished speaking.

“Come here, ner kar’ta,” he says, his voice a low, gentle murmur as he opens his arms, just in time for you to come scrambling, throwing yourself into them with a muffled sob against the material of his sweater, pressing your face against his chest and clinging onto any part of him you can reach. There’s a soft puff of breath that you feel lightly ruffle your hair before his lips gently press against your forehead, lingering there as he whispers “That’s my girl. See? I have you. We’re okay”

His scomp arm is a heavy, familiar weight as it runs along the small of your back, settling at your waist as he guides you closer. He doesn’t needlessly comment. He doesn’t pepper you with questions or demand an explanation of what’s wrong.

Instead, he simply tucks your head beneath  his chin, his hand gentle as it lingers to brush through and stroke your hair. He holds you in his arms, slightly swaying on the spot, the slow, repetitive back-and-forth as he rocks you, settling your uneasy heart as you sniffle, quietly allowing yourself to give into the tears. 

The only sounds that fall from Echo’s lips aren’t so much words as they are just familiar, soothing noises. The soft “shh,” as his hand gently cups the back of your head or the gentle, barely there kisses, lightly scattered across the top of your head and the quiet, steady exhalation of breath that you become more and more aware of as your tears begin to slow.

“Hey, beautiful,” he says, his voice a low, gentle rumble as he pulls back slightly, noticing you peeking up at him through watery eyes and stroking his hand along your cheek, brushing away your tears with his thumb. “Rough day?”

A sound that could either be classified as a laugh or a small, broken sob is pulled from your lips as you look up at him, nodding your head. 

“Sorry,” you mumble, your cheeks flooding with heat. “I didn’t mean to react like that, I just.”

“Shh,” he lightly cuts you off by leaning forward, lips a soft brush against yours as he lingers there, warm, golden eyes intent as they search yours, taking in your expression, the drying tear tracks on your cheeks, the dark circles beneath your eyes.

“When’s the last time you got a full night's sleep?” he asks, and the question feels so off-topic that for a few seconds, you blink up at him, looking bewildered before you shake your head, shrugging.

“I, I don’t I um?”

Apparently, your hesitation and seeming inability to come up with a suitable answer is confirmation enough, and Echo, making a small, exasperated gesture with his scomp, clicks his tongue with disapproval.

“That’s what I thought,” he sighs, a hand running over the back of his head as he looks down at you. “Right, well, let me worry about cleaning up here. I want you to at least sit down and get some rest.”

“I can’t,” you sputter, your eyes widening. “Echo, me taking a nap is the exact reason why all of this,” you gesture towards the burnt cookies on the counter, “happened. I need to get to work on a new batch so that I have something to bring over to your family’s house for dinner tomorrow.”

“And we will,” Echo’s voice is patient, but there’s an underlying, stern edge that’s crept into it that breeches no room for argument as he ushers you into the living room, hand on the small of your back as he guides you over to an armchair. “But, cyar, you’ve just told me that you’ve already taken a nap?” he asks, folding his arms.

“Yeah,” you say, your lips tilted downward in a confused frown as you turn to look up at him. 

“And isn’t a nap supposed to make you feel more well rested afterward?” he asks, the question clearly rhetorical as he takes your chin in his hand, thumb pointedly brushing along the bag beneath one of your eyes. 

The silence he gets in response to that remains uncontested, and he smirks, satisfied in the knowledge that he has you beaten.

“No arguing with me on this one, princess,” he says gruffly, which makes you glare at him even as he lightly pushes your unresisting body down into the armchair, moving to pull out the Ottoman from beneath. “I’m not asking you to sleep. Just rest while I clean up the kitchen. We’ll figure everything else out once I’m finished, okay?” 

“Fine,” you huff, looking up at him with a stubborn set to your jaw before you add “but only if you kiss me first.”

Echo’s chuckle is warm and deep, his eyes soft as he leans down to oblige you, first brushing his lips against your forehead, your cheek, the corner of your mouth, lingering at each spot.

“Now that, I can gladly do,” he murmurs, his voice a soft breath that brushes against your lips before he’s closing the distance, his lips pressing against yours in a warm, tender kiss.

When he pulls back, your eyes flutter open. Echo’s smile is small, but sweet and conveys the infinite amount of affection that he holds for you as he moves, retrieving a neatly folded throw blanket, from where it’s been draped over the back of the couch. He unfolds it, letting you see the depiction of a group of tookas snuggled together in front of a fireplace that’s been illustrated on the soft fabric, before moving back towards you, wrapping it around you, taking his time to make sure that you’re bundled up just right, movements soft and careful as he does.

“Just rest, Cyar’ika,” he reaffirms, pressing one last kiss to the top of your head before straightening, moving back towards the kitchen in long strides. “We’ll sort everything out, I promise.”

And because it’s Echo, and Echo always keeps his promises, you actually believe him.

*

Surprisingly, once you’re sat down and comfortable, you find it easy to, if not fall asleep, simply drift and allow yourself to zone out.

You can faintly hear the sounds of Echo moving around your kitchen. There’s light footsteps, water running as he does the dishes in the sink, the soft, warm rumble of his baritone as he quietly hums an unfamiliar tune. Your eyes drift close, and the next time you let yourself float back into awareness, he’s there, smiling down at you, a beloved pair of your slippers tucked beneath his arm, a steaming mug held out as an offering in his hand.

“Careful,” he cautions you as you eagerly reach for it, making sure it is securely held within your grasp before letting go. “It’s still hot.”

You look down to survey the contents, a smile pulling at the corners of your lips as soon as you register the warm, sweet scent of hot chocolate. He’s piled it high with marshmallows and whip cream, which he’s always rolled his eyes at you for adding.

“I don’t get it,” he would often say with fond exasperation, arms folded across his chest. “Why do you need to add extras? It’s already sweet to begin with.”

Seeing that he has evidently so lovingly prepared it in the way that you enjoy pulls your lips upward into a smile and you beam at him, your eyes lighting up for the first time in what feels like days. 

You grin up at him, indulging yourself in a tiny sip, your eyes closing with delight before you utter a quiet, but sincere thank you. 

“I still think it’s too sweet with all that,” he grumbles, a small, perplexed crinkle between his eyebrows as he sinks to his knees at your feet. “But anything for you, Cyar’ika.”

He gently takes one of your feet in his hands, seeming to contemplate it as he sets the pair of slippers at his side. 

“Have you considered,” he asks idly, scomp carefully resting on your ankle, as with the other hand he curls one of his fingers, lightly pressing his knuckle against the overworked arch of your foot. “That you’ve been doing too much?”

As if to accentuate his words, he slowly begins to rotate his wrist, the drag of his knuckle a gentle, but steady, pressure that instantly causes your eyes to flutter closed. It feels good. It feels wonderful, actually. He’s working with obvious deliberation and care, but he’s also, quite effectively, digging into sore spots and tendons that you didn’t realize you were carrying, and the relief is instantaneous.

“I wanted it to be a surprise,” you admit, unable to bring yourself to open your eyes and look down at him. “For them and for you.”

He hums, a quiet understanding as he lightly grasps your Achilles tendon between his thumb and index finger, slow and gentle as he strokes towards your heel. He’s quiet for a moment, remaining completely focused on you, thoughtful as he keeps up with his task.

“Well,” he murmurs, lips twitching upward as he gently pulls at each of your toes, slight tugs to coax tension to release in each. “As nice as that would have been, I think I’ll be much happier helping you bake the second attempt.”

He gives you a rueful grin, easing one of your slippers onto your foot with a small assist from you before moving to repeat his prior treatment with the other.

“You’ll have to teach me, though,” he says, voice apologetic. “I’m afraid I’ve never been much of a baker. But, I’m willing to learn, and hey, we can finally put some of those scomp attachments that Tech has fitted me with to use.”

You laugh softly, your lips pulling upward into a matching smile. Tech, when he had miraculously found his way back to his family, returned needing extensive recovery and physiotherapy, with so many of his bones having been broken or shattered, including in his fingers and hands. To regain the dexterity that he once coveted, he was often found working on some project or another, requiring a constant flow of them to keep his agile and ever working mind occupied until the medics would allow him to walk again.

Crosshair, being Crosshair, had very limited patience, only sitting long enough to allow his brother to fit him with an appropriate cybernetic, fiddling with and rewiring servos to make it more effectively attuned to him. But, once he had started suggesting certain modifications, Crosshair had stomped off, rolling his eyes and tossing over his shoulder “I’m not a droid, Tech. It’s fine, just leave it,” in his seemingly trademark annoyed tone.

Tech had pressed his lips together, and you had wondered, still on the outside and learning Echo’s family as you were, if he was hurt by Crosshair’s vehement rebuttal. Echo, standing beside you, seemed to come to a similar kind of conclusion, but had only stepped forward, laying a hand on Tech’s shoulder, sitting down beside him at his workstation.

“He might be opposed to adding some cool attachments, but I’m not,” Echo declared, giving his brother a light nudge. “What do you say, Tech. Think you can make me something I can use to give Crosshair a good smack?”

“I was thinking more along the lines of practicality,” Tech explained, hands folded in his lap. “Perhaps a flipper or spatula to ease the burden of cooking somewhat.”

His eyes, when he had looked up, were sparkling with amusement, and his lips tilted upward into a small, but evident smile when he had continued by saying, his voice nonchalant, “But I believe your idea also holds certain merit. If you have the patience to let me experiment, I believe we can do both.”

*

Luckily for Tech, Echo seemed to possess an infinite amount of patience to let him fiddle, his scomp sometimes attached, sometimes laying on the table between them, their heads bent low as they quietly conversed with each other. 

Echo was more than content to just sit and talk, of different attachment ideas, their uses both on the field and in simple, daily life, or of everything and nothing. You watched, quiet but observant, as Echo in his casual, straightforward way, brought Tech up to speed on the goings-on of him and his brothers whilst he was gone and inexplicably, you watched as Tech, still hunched over his work with his hands tangled amidst wire and components, allowed his shoulders to begin to soften, slowly pulling away from his ears as he listened to his brother talk.

You suspected that this was Echo’s way of making up for lost time with Tech, and for your part, you were more than happy to just be a silent, but present observer and support, there to reach for and squeeze Echo’s hand, or, if necessary, talk with him late into the night when you noticed his small tells of guilty, self blame ridden thought patterns starting to creep in.

Regardless of how it had initially started as simply mobility and skill recovery, Tech had, with the input of Echo, designed quite the variety of inventions for Echo’s scomp, one of which, you now found yourself in your kitchen, getting to test out its effectiveness for the first time.

“I have to say,” you murmur, arms wrapped around his waist as you observe him from behind, your chin lightly resting against his shoulder. “You’re doing a much better job than the stand mixer ever could.”

Echo stands, the attachment to his scomp lowered into the glass bowl, whirring as it stirs the ingredients. The mix looks smooth, slowly coming together in a blend. Echo lets out a low chuckle, and you can feel its slight rumble as he turns, retracting from the bowl and raising his scomp to give you a small salute.

“Happy to be of service,” he says with a smirk, startling slightly as a flake of the dough takes the opportunity to fall from the attachment, landing on the tip of his nose.

It’s your turn to giggle, and your hand stops him from instinctively moving to wipe it away as you rise onto your tiptoes, hurriedly exclaiming “I got it. I got it,” before you lean forward and, not giving him the time to protest, cheekily licking it off.

“You’re quite the opportunist,” he muses, moving towards the sink to remove the attachment and place it in a pile to be cleaned.

“Can I have what’s left on that?” you ask and he turns, a hand on his hip and his lips pressed together.

“Are you kidding? No,” he says, both exasperated and mortified. “That is so unsanitary. Meshla, do you realize how many diseases you could catch from eating raw cookie dough?” he asks, turning back to the sink.

“It was worth a shot,” you sigh in defeat, looking at the bowl of now mixed cookie dough with longing. You’re not usually this impatient and peckish for scraps. But really, after your first tried and failed attempt, you’re hungry, and eager to taste test the fruits of your labour

“What next, boss?” Echo asks a moment later, returning to your side and drying his hand on a tea towel.

“Now,” you say, beaming as you hold out an ice cream scooper to him. “Comes the fun part.”

*

“Perfect,” Echo murmurs in satisfaction, watching as the round ball of dough falls from the scoop into your waiting, cupped hands. 

The two of you had decided it would be easiest, and move faster, if it was done this way. Echo, working with a lot more precision than you had when you had been doing this on your own, using the ice cream scoop to separate the dough into little balls. And you, after retrieving them, dunking them into a bowl of white sugar, rolling each around until each surface had a generous amount dusted on, and setting each on the lined baking tray.

“This probably wasn’t how you envisioned spending the night of Life Day Eve,” you say quietly, your words tinged with a note of regret.

“None of that,” Echo gently chides, his shoulder lightly bumping against yours. “I’ve already told you, Cyar’ika, I really don’t mind that this is the way that it turned out.”

You’re quiet for a moment, and sensing your lingering hesitance, he continues. 

“You’re worried about spending time with them, aren’t you?” he asks, and his words aren’t accusatory, just a soft, knowing observation and you swallow, your eyes intent on your work as you nod your head slightly. 

“Yeah,” you admit, your voice barely a breath. “I know I’ve met all of them and have even spent time with a few of them when you come to visit, but this is different.”

“I understand that,” Echo murmurs, and from the sincerity in his voice, you can tell that he really does. “This feels more official than all of those other times?”

“Yeah,” you agree, setting the next ball on the cookie sheet and turning to receive the next one. “Life Day is all about family and mine... let’s just say they wouldn’t be overly thrilled to see me standing out on their doorstep if I showed up tomorrow for their celebration.” 

Echo hums, and the silence that follows is comfortable, thoughtful as he turns, contemplating you from the corner of his eye.

“But my family will,” he says quietly. “You know that, right? They’re really happy that you’ve agreed to come. Especially Omega. She’s been chattering my ear off about how excited she is to see you every time I’ve gone over to visit them.”

His mention of the girl pulls your lips up into a slight smile, but the sound you make is noncommittal and he frowns, taking a step forward, catching your chin in his hand.

“I need them to like me,” you say, trembling at the vulnerability in your own voice. “I need to do something, give them something so that I don’t...”

“Shh, sweetheart,” Echo softly interjects, thumb lightly brushing over your lips. “You don’t need to do anything. I promise, cyar, they already love you.”

“I doubt that,” you say, unable to hide the edge of residual bitterness that even now, still lingers in your voice. 

Echo is patient, letting out a breath, the backs of his knuckles gentle, unhurried, as they run along the curve of your cheek, as he takes a breath to carefully collect his next words.

“I know that your family has made you feel unwanted,” Echo says, after a moment's pause to collect himself. “And I know that a couple of words from me aren’t going to change how much that hurt you.”

His hand is, yet again, lightly nudging at your chin, bringing your eyes back up to focus on his warm, concerned golden depths.

“My heart is yours,” he says, his voice just a whisper, but still managing to carry the stone heavy weight of a promise beneath it. “And, if you want them to be, if you let them, my family will be your family, too.”

“Do they want that?” You ask, unable to hide the waiver in your voice.

Echo’s eyes soften, and you can’t help the way you nuzzle into his touch as he cups your cheek in his hand.

“They do,” he affirms, voice certain and steady. “And if that’s something you want, all you have to do is say so. I promise, cyar, whenever you’re ready, they’re waiting for you with open arms.”

“Y- you’re sure?” You ask in a shaking voice, and at the first glimmer of tears in your eyes, he’s reaching out, pulling you to his chest and holding you in his arms.

“I’m sure,” he says, without a glimpse of hesitance in his voice. “You don’t have to make any grand gestures for them to accept you, ner kar’ta. You just have to be my girl.”

He drops a kiss to the top of your head and, despite the blush that’s crawling up your cheeks, you squirm, tilting your head, going up onto your tiptoes to capture his lips with yours, to which he surrenders happily.

When you pull away, your cheeks are flushed, your lips slightly parted, and your voice breathless. 

“I, I think I can do that,” you murmur, looking up at him with a shy, barely concealed mix of nervousness and hope playing on your expression.

“I’m glad,” Echo beams, and the smile he gives you is a dazzling thing to behold. “Trust me, cyar, it’ll all turn out. You’ll see.”

You’re not really sure what he means by that, but, as you turn back to finish arranging the rest of the cookies, you decide that he has never led you wrong before, so you might as well take him at his word.

*

“Beauties,” Echo comments, bending to retrieve the cookie tray from the oven. “Now these aren’t such a bad batch, are they, meshla?”

Maybe it was the weight that you suddenly found had vanished from your shoulders after your and Echo’s chat, maybe it was just the late hour and the oven timer going off sending you a prolonged burst of energy. But you couldn’t help but bounce on the balls of your feet, peeking over Echo’s shoulder to catch a glimpse at the now perfectly baked, lightly sugar frosted chocolate crinkles.

“I know we should wait until tomorrow so that we can share them with everyone but...” you trail off, the indignant grumble of your stomach interrupting whatever excuse you were about to make.

Echo laughs, throwing his head back as his eyes sparkle with merriment. An arm wraps around your shoulders, and he tucks you against his side, looking down at you with a small grin.

“We made them. We deserve to taste test them,” he declares, and before you can protest, he swipes the nearest one from off the tray. “Want to share?”

You smile, nodding your head and helping him to break the cookie in equal halves.

“Cheers,” you grin, lightly bumping your half against his. Raising it to your lips, you indulge yourself in a large bite, closing your eyes and letting a soft “Mmm,” fall from your lips. It’s still warm, soft and gooey chocolate that melts in your mouth that reminds you, so quintessentially, of the holiday, and for once, only the good parts come to mind, as you watch Echo follow suit, though his first bite is much more delicate than yours. His eyes flutter close, and before you know it, both of you are looking at each other, your halves of the cookie gone within seconds.

You both smile, soft laughter falling from your lips as you both trade glances towards the tray, tempted to reach for another, but making a valiant effort to resist.

“Look at me, beautiful,” Echo hums. “You’ve got a little something right...”

He dips his head, leaning in, fingers delicately tilting your chin upward, lips warm as they brush against yours. You gasp, unable to hide a slight shiver as his tongue gently sweeps over your lips and he lets out a soft hum, fingers lightly teasing along your side, his hand eventually coming to rest at your hip. 

The kiss is sweet, filled with tenderness and topped with the lingering traces of sugar that Echo chases away with his lips. 

Faintly, as he pulls back just enough to rest his forehead against yours, feeling the soft puffs of air as you both try to regain your breath, you register the distant chimes of a grandfather clock, 12 rings of its bells to signify midnight, ringing in the new day with its song.

“Happiest of Life Days, Cyar’ika,” Echo whispers, a soft breath against your skin. 

“Happy Life Day, my love,” you say, your voice equally as soft.

Then, as the distant, echoing chimes of the clock ring and fade into the night, you cradle his face in your hands, tilting your head to kiss him again. You feel, for the first time in your recent memory of Life Days past, a sense of rightness, of knowing that here, with his warm body lightly pressing you against the counter and his soft lips settled against yours, content, it seems, to linger there until all coherent thoughts have been chased away from your mind with each teasing touch, that this is where you’re meant to be.

That somehow, despite having convinced yourself that you were never going to find it, you think that finally, truly, his arms might just be the safe, comforting place that you choose to call home.

*

“We made you a gift.”

Omega is beaming with excitement, almost on her tiptoes as she bounces on the balls of her feet with a wide smile, and looking down at her, it’s impossible not to be captivated and taken in by her infectious joy as she produces something from behind her back. 

Despite Echo’s stream of reassurances that all would be well as you left the house this afternoon, picking your way through rainy pathways and hopping around puddles, you still look to him now, reaching for his hand to feel the reassuring press of his fingers against yours.

“You did?” You ask, unable to hide the note of startled surprise in your voice. “I’m sorry, I didn’t bring something for each of you. I didn’t know what you would like and...”

“It’s a gift,” Crosshair cuts you off, folding his arms as he leans against the wall.

“We do not expect nor require you to provide anything in return,” Tech states, much more kindly as he gives you one of his small smiles. “We merely hope that you enjoy it.”

“Hunter did the carvings,” Omega says, very carefully lowering something into your hands. “But we all contributed in one way or another.”

You look down to find a snow globe, rested atop  a circular, wooden stand beneath, cupped within your hands. Inspecting it closely, you find that indeed, there is something to signify each brother within the carvings of wood that decorate the base. From the small carving of Tech’s goggles, to Hunter’s skull emblem and Crosshair’s tattoo. 

“I made the snow,” Omega declares proudly. “And Wrecker took the photo.”

“What photo?” You ask and Wrecker grins, leaning across you and touching a small, unnoticed button at the top of the glass. 

A holoimage slowly fades into focus within the glass orb, snow lightly swirling around it. It’s of you and Echo, sitting out on a porch swing and snuggled beneath a blanket. You remember how the rest of them had teased you both, saying that it wasn’t even that cold outside and was the blanket really necessary?

Wrecker, in particular, had let out a booming laugh, claiming that since the two of you seemed to run so cold, maybe it was a sign that the two of you were perfect for each other.

“Aw, look at the two a ya. You can keep each other warm,” he had grinned, and you can remember him snapping the photo shortly after that.

“We all have one,” Omega continues, pointing to the mantle above the fireplace where indeed, you see a line up of six other snow globes. “You can take yours home, or you can set it with ours, if you want to.”

“You, you would be fine with that?” You ask the room at large, scanning their faces. For some reason, it feels wrong, and you don’t want to insert yourself into their already established Life Day family traditions.

“Why not,” Hunter grins, gesturing to the mantle. “You’re one of us now.”

“Y- you’re sure?” You ask, unable to hide the waver that’s crept into your voice.

“Of course we are. You make him so happy,” Wrecker beams, and before you know it he’s enveloped you into a fierce, tight hug that simultaneously knocks all the air from your lungs while also, at the same time, making you feel like you’ve just let out the biggest sigh of relief. He lifts you off the floor, which makes you let out a sound, somewhere between a startled gasp and a laugh. “That seems like as good of a reason as any to me,” he continues, suddenly gentle and steadying as he sets you back down.

“It’s true,” Crosshair snarks, watching as he idly twirls a toothpick between his fingers. “I’ve never seen him look like such a lovesick puppy before,” he says, pulling a disgusted face as he slides the toothpick between his teeth.

“Oh, shut up,” Echo grumbles, but when you turn to him, he’s ducking his head, his cheeks having gone slightly pink. 

“I think it’s sweet,” Omega declares, lightly elbowing Crosshair in the ribs. He pretends to give her a glare, then, as payback, lunges forward, easily grappling her and beginning to attack her with tickles. The small house is momentarily filled with her shrieks and giggles which ends with Batcher, torn between which of her owners needs to be protected from the other, shoves between the two of them, nudging her snout at both sets of scrabbling hands to entreat them to pet her and give her head scratches, which both happily oblige her demand.

“You are by no means obligated to,” Tech cuts in, smoothly redirecting the conversation back to you. “It is our gift, and you may do with it as you wish. But, if you would like to place your snow globe alongside ours, we have made a space for you, right beside Echo’s.”

“I would,” you admit, voice soft, wistful.

Echo rises to his feet, his hand held out in a silent offering. After a moment's pause, you take it, letting him guide you towards the blazing heat of the fire that warms your toes, caressing up your legs as you get closer.

With hands that are shaking despite the warmth, you lift your snow globe, careful and gentle as you lower it down into the spot that they’ve made for you, smiling as it fits perfectly beside Echo’s.

“There,” Echo murmurs, and the smile he gives you is soft, speaking volumes of his affection.

An arm curls around your waist, and you melt into him as he pulls you against his chest, letting out a happy sigh as warm lips brush against your forehead. When he speaks his voice is low, soft, and meant for your ears alone.

“Welcome to the family, Cyar’ika. You have no idea how happy I am that you’re here.”

When he leans in to kiss you this time, standing by the fire and in front of all of his family, you start to get that same feeling you got late last night, when you had shared your first Life Day kiss with him. Only this time, it’s not a glimpse, or an echo or a maybe. When you tilt your head, rising up onto your tiptoes to meet him, warm contentment settling over you like a soft blanket, you know, without any second guessing or lingering reason to doubt, that he is your anchor, your lodestar, and, most of all, that Echo is your home.

•Thank you to @strangergraphics for these adorable Christmas themed dividers

[kitorin]

LOVE ALL PLAY. - ITOSHI RIN

TWO - ANNOYANCE

contents. one kys joke, swearing, nsfw jokes / mention (again, it's just me writing shidou as a typical high school boy), smau component :>

"Two nil."

You remain facing the front, just to avoid getting caught by the teacher for speaking in class again. But regardless your whisper is aggressive, full of energy and Rin doesn't have to see your face to comprehend the smug expression you were most likely donning.

The teacher smiles ever so slightly. "Well done y/n."

Rin glances to the side as the teacher goes back to scrawling on the blackboard, teal attempting to capture what was happening without drawing too much attention.

Oh how he wishes he could wipe that shit eating grin on your face.

He scowls at the sight of you. "The fuck are you on?"

"One from running the other day. The other from just now."

With a scoff, indignation rolls his eyes. "Correction: You did not beat me. You interrupted practice like the little shit you are."

"I won."

Rin hisses, careful not to be louder than the teacher's lecturing. "We weren't competing. And I never will. Quit being delusional."

Now, neither of you are bothering with remaining unnoticed by the teacher. "Why so defensive? You scared?"

"I have no reason to be." He scoffs. "Midget."

"'Course you resort to making fun of my height. That's how you know you're truly losing."

Suddenly, Rin's arm shoots up, to which the teacher addresses instantly. "Yes, Itoshi?"

"Because war literature's purpose is to illuminate the dictatorial essence of warfare, the injurious effects it inflicts on entire communities and the brutal changes it forces upon generations. The author utilises a form differing from the traditional novel, as visual representations can express what words cannot." It takes a lot not to smirk at the impressed gasps buzzing around the classroom, as he controls his voice to sound passionate, but not obsessive; calm but not emotionless. "Adopting a different form of literature simply allows the author to amplify and convey their ideas in a manner they desire."

By now, all eyes were on him. It's oddly exhilarating, he knows very well this moment doesn't compare to the 'point' you scored earlier.

"Very impressive, Itoshi. Please maintain that effort for the rest of the year."

Rin smiles, one that displays appreciation evidently, whilst being polite and not excessive. "Thank you sir."

"What the hell was that? That came out of nowhere, I thought you weren't paying attention as well."

"One point for a sufficient answer. Another for being 'very impressive. And one for every classmate that turned to stare." Satisfaction blossoms inside of him, he'd take a photo of the way shock paralysed your features and capture the moment forever. "First set's mine, and you didn't score shit."

"You don't get to decide that."

Indifference pulls his shoulders into a shrug. "You insisted on earning two points for your delusions. I'm just stating the obvious."

You're sweating, because of summer's insolence but Rin liked entertaining the idea that it was you getting flustered. A hand reaches your face to fan it. "I'm not delusional you're just crazy. Did you even understand what you just said, Mr 'dictatorial essence of warfare'?"

"Yeah." He replies, as if he simply didn't memorise synonymous words with an intelligent complexion. "Did you?"

Rin doesn't miss the exasperated roll of your eyes. "Obviously. You can't hide a simple message behind fancy words. All you had to say was that literature's form changes the manner of how it illustrates a piece's concepts."

"Only an average Joe would be satisfied with an answer like that."

You grumble whilst copying down notes. "And only an idiot would feel the need to hide behind obnoxiously long words."

He imbeds sarcasm into his tone. "I can't believe an honor roll student would say such things to a fellow peer. Anyways, hurry up and admit your loss."

"You know, I hope you trip over and ruin your uniform in the dirt during training today."

"And I hope you melt into a sad puddle, in the same way Hiori's ice block did."

Restraint disappears, as you raise your voice. "You—"

"l/n. I'm about to send you out into the hallway if you don't behave. That applies to anyone else in this class." Rin feigns innocence at the teacher's scolding, maintaining stoic composure. Conversely, you seemed to find it difficult to do so, apologising to the teacher.

Victorious, Rin whispers. "Second set. One nil. My way."

For some reason, you were oddly calm now. "Your fly's undone, by the way."

His eyes widen with alarm, glancing down and realizing too late that you were kidding. By then, his well sustained equanimity had gone out of the window.

"You fucking—"

"Itoshi. Get out of my class."

"Rin Rin, please help meee."

As if automatic, Rin frowns at the nickname and Isagi's pleading, pausing from his drink break. "With what?"

"Literature. I didn't understand a thing you said in class today..."

Neither did he. "Read 'The Book Thief'?"

Isagi pouts. "I did. But I don't see how sir reached his conclusion while analysing it."

Rin doesn't even bother looking at his teammate. "Same." Instead he watches Shidou and Bachira (an irksome pair, Rin thinks) argue with Reo over a goal, as Yukimiya attempts to serve as a mediator.

"Huh?"

"What? It's not that hard to reword the things sir says and what you find on the internet."

The older player narrows his eyes. "You're a liar, then."

"Excuse me?"

"You told y/n you knew what you were talking about. Behind your wordy answers is just a search history filled with synonyms."

Rin scowls. "It's not a lie. I do understand what I'm saying."

"You're prideful in things other than soccer too... I mean I can't say it was unexpected." He places a (sweaty) hand on Rin's shoulder. "It's okay to be bad at something, you don't have to be perfect." Isagi was being genuine, though he was treating Rin like a stubborn five year old.

Yielding it as a weapon, Rin grabs the towel draped around his neck, trying to hit Isagi with it. Instinctively, the victim dodges it, barely in time.

"Fuck off—" Rin yells, recoiling the towel to smack Isagi again. "What are you on this time?"

"It's okay Rin Rin, we support youu." Isagi doesn't even take Rin's anger seriously, effortlessly dodging his towel, agile and quick on his feet. "Self esteem issues are valid no matter what. You and y/n are equals no matter what."

The use of the nickname and the mention of you only fuels his anger, Rin doesn't give up, but neither does Isagi. "Don't compare me to that little shit."

"Should be stop them..?" Reo asks Nagi, who was for once, not hyperfixated on his phone.

"Nah. This is funny." He dries the sweat soaking his fluffy white hair, Rin notices it from the corner of his eye. "Do better, Rin."

"Shut up the fuck up, Nagi." Rin chases Isagi (who seemed to be having a great time), around the side of the field.

"Sounds like a skill issue to me." Nagi yawns. "Cope harder." This time, he yells it out loud. "Reo, how much are you betting for Rin to hit Isagi?"

Gaze averted, Reo doesn't even bother watching their quarrel. "None, because it's not going to last very long." He points in the other direction. "Coach looks pissed."

Rin takes notice of this too, it was beyond too late to pretend nothing happened, as he halts his movements. So does Isagi, bowing to Ego when he approaches the two.

"I leave for five minutes and you idiots are fighting." He runs his fingers through his straight bangs. "You're packing up today. Try something like this again and I'm removing you off the starting team."

Relief washes over him, thanking Ego silently for a second chance. "Yes sir."

Ego dismisses the rest of the team. "Isagi. I was referring to you as well. Go help Itoshi."

"Pardon?"

Their coach glares at him. "Don't try to act innocent. I already know you well enough as the type to be annoying. Anyways, don't forget to lock up. Get home safe too."

With that he leaves, murmuring something about teenagers being irritating, and after the events of today, Rin couldn't agree more.

"This is your fault." Rin says, as he collects the cones.

Isagi doesn't bother teasing him. "Yeah, yeah, sure. Get this done so we can leave quicker.

Though he'd never admit it, Rin agrees in silence, exhausted at the antics he had to tolerate today.

It's late at night when conversation stirs in the group chat, Rin texts with one hand while the other dries his hair.

Hair now dry, Rin flops into his bed, face landing in his pillow. He can't stand practice with Shidou, let alone a full studying session where he's the focus. He hasn't known him for long, yet is already sick of him and his jokes regarding his older brother.

But from a logical standpoint, it was a good idea. He's hopeless on his own, only literature permits utilising the art of bullshit to pass, and he refuses to ask for a proper tutor; they're expensive and Rin doesn't intend on going to tertiary education.

Just do it for soccer, Rin thinks to himself as he drifts off to sleep, drained from today's chaos.

ONE | MASTERLIST | THREE

pairing. itoshi rin x reader

synopsis. all itoshi rin ever wanted was a peaceful high school career, his plans go to ruin thanks to the school's badminton genius; entangling their lives—and emotions together.

contents. rivals to lovers, badminton player!reader, sports romance, fluff, high school au

taglist. @yuzurins, @silly-ez, @chigirizzz, @kaiserkisser, @httpshujii, @saesins, @yoimyas, @saetorinrin, @hxniplayz, @certaindreampost, @rroxii, @jar-03, @celestair, @satoruskitchenrag, @kaitfae, @biaonww, @hellothere9597, @its-ur-pillow, @saesofficialwife, @miyanaranagikenmal-intp — bold means i cannot tag you

© kitorin : do not repost, plagiarize, change, or translate

[fragaria-imagines]

Red Bouquet Valentine’s Day Headcanons (with their S/O)

Hallritt:

Hallritt goes all out for every and any holiday, Valentine’s day is no exception!

He would try to surprise you with a homemade cake, but unfortunately, just like every other time Hallritt has tried to bake or cook something, it never ends well.

He ends up accidentally starting a fire on Valentine’s day, much to his —and the rest of his bouquet members— dismay, ruining the surprise.

However, even with his failed baking attempt, you still appreciate the effort and time he put in to it, and suggested that they should bake a cake together instead!

Hallritt was all over the moon for that idea, so you two spend the rest of day, laughing and baking homemade goods together (with supervision of course).

As for gifts, Hallritt lives by the motto, “Go Big or Go Home”, and that’s exactly what he did when buying you gifts.

He is such a gift giver and bought you plenty of gifts, whether it be clothes, toys, plushies, chocolate, flowers, books, jewelry, candles, letters, makeup, video games, and everything you can think of. He even bought you a bird house (doesn’t matter if you don’t have a bird because Hallritt would buy you a bird along with the bird house).

Honestly, his gift giving can be too much and kind of overwhelming at times, and it just gets more over top and extreme over the years, but that’s just his way of expressing his love to you!

Merold:

Merold is the exact opposite of Hallritt, meaning he likes to play it coy (even though we all know he’s not).

He’s the type to act like Valentine’s is not a big deal but is secretly planning every single way to surprise you.

On the day of Valentine’s Day, he would go as far as pretending to not know what day it was, going about it as it was any other day, which kind of stings.

However, your momentary sadness about your boyfriend forgetting Valentine’s, was quickly nipped in the bud, once you entered the Strawberry Castle and saw how overly decorated it was.

And of course, there was no one but Merold, standing in the middle of the room, wearing a suit and holding a red rose for you.

You two danced the night away, the sounds of laughter never seemed to fade when you two were together. Cheesy, yes, but you couldn’t have been more happier, and wouldn’t want it any other way.

When it comes to giving gifts, Merold loves to spoil you rotten, so he goes just as crazy —if not more— as Hallritt, when it comes to buying you gifts.

He especially likes to buy you very expensive and luxurious gifts, like a car, a Chanel bag, a spa treatment, jewelry, clothing, because you deserve the best of the best!

Puruth:

With how much Puruth travels, you honestly didn’t think he would be with you for Valentines, so it was a pleasant surprise when he was!

Rather than going to an extravagant dinner date or buy a bunch of gifts, you two decided to keep it low-key, and have a dinner date at a local café, to enjoy each other’s company.

Puruth didn’t do any of the typical dramatics or over the top romantic gestures, instead he confessed his love for you, very simple and straightforward, with the same golden retriever smile that you have grown to love.

He decided to buy you a gift that had meaning instead of opting to buying the most expensive item.

He gifted you trinkets and memorabilia from his traveling, like a pocket watch for when he needed to look at the time, or an old book that he read during his travels, or a feather from an exotic animal.

It might have been seen as weird or lazy gift giving by most people, but you knew how much time and love Puruth put into those gifts, and you appreciate it because he’s gifting you a part of him that you don’t get to see much of due to his traveling.

This way, you two will always be together, regardless if you’re far away from each other not, and you couldn’t have had it any other way.

Romarriche:

Not surprising to anyone, but Romarriche is a romantic gentleman at heart! Though his way of being romantic is a lot more tone-down and low-key than that of Hallritt’s and Merold’s.

When you wake up on Valentine’s Day, you are met with a thousand budding red roses, all which are delivered by no one other than yours truly, Romarriche.

Romarriche would also take it upon himself to cook for you, and since he knows how to cook, this Valentines meal would not result in the fire department being called!

It’s never just Valentines “Day”, being the romantic that he is, Romarriche will always book a vacation months in advance, making Valentines Day more into Valentines Week.

By the end of your romantic getaway vacation, Romarriche would take you to a field of flowers to watch the sunset, as you embrace another day of your love together.

Romarriche loves spoiling you with gifts, but is also aware that too much gifts can cause you to be overwhelmed, so he always makes it a point to take down a peg or two when it comes to gift giving.

He would gift you practical things that you need in your day to day life, like a sewing machine, an air fryer, a new dishwasher, socks, and china.

Rimicha:

Valentines Day or not, this man expects to be spoiled 24/7 regardless.

He would attempt to be romantic and have a romantic night out with you, but those plans were quickly thrown out the window, due to his short fuse.

The day ends up with you two spending the day playing video games together, eating overcooked meatloaf.

As for gifts, he would buy you a cheap video game, that he ends up taking it for himself, and a batch of roses!

Sanah:

Out of everybody on this list, Sanah is THE biggest love bug of them all!

He is already an affectionate person, but his affection is ten folds on Valentine’s Day.

Valentines Day is actually his favorite holiday because there’s nothing that he loves more than spending the day with his loved ones!

His ideal date for Valentine centers more around extracurricular activities like watching a movie, going to the beach, going on a hike, going bowling, stargazing, than simply going on a coffee date or eating dinner.

By the time, you two are done with your tiring list of activities, you both are tired and ready to go to bed but there’s still gifts to be exchanged!

Sanah is not the best gift giver out of the bunch, but what he lacks in tact, he’ll make it up in heart! It’s the thought that counts after all.

He would gift you all the usual romantic Valentine gifts, like toys, plushie, flowers, chocolate, but with a twist of his own like, a beach ball, or a hat, stickers, candles, a ukulele!

[mariaofdoranelle]

The Courtship Deception - Part 11: Fracture

Fic masterlist

Written for @throneofglassmicrofics

I also used the Yacht prompt from @rowaelinprompts!!

This is me posting and running away byeee

Warnings: none?

Words: 965

Rowan’s turbulent engagement had nothing and everything to do with his bride. Regardless, he’d spare no effort to take the weight off of her shoulders and treasure the engagement’s good moments with her.

For the last romantic hangout before the wedding, Rowan picked the least polluted lake close to the city and borrowed one of the Galathynius’ yacht—not the big one for parties, but the smaller one reserved for close friends and family. They were both on the deck, lying on a hammock-like net that allowed them to see the water under them.

As if this would make him pay attention to the lake when Aelin wore a red bikini so small it couldn’t exist in a three-dimensional space.

They laid on their sides facing each other, soaking in that blissful silence while Aelin appreciatively ran her hand through his torso and shoulder.

“Are you sure you’ve got this all figured out?” she asked for the second or third time today.

Rowan stiffened, then forced himself to loosen up and gave her a lazy grin. He was insecure about his own ability to pull this off, yes, but he didn’t need to stress his bride right before the wedding.

“You…” Rowan kissed her jaw, cheek and nose. “The only thing you need to worry about is getting on that altar.” A slow kiss on the mouth this time. “All pretty and pampered for me. You should put on something pretty enough to post pictures with, but not so much I can’t ruin it later.”

Aelin put their foreheads together, eyes closed as she caressed his cheek. “You sure? Because I have a plan if you’re not. I know people who would benefit from us getting married.”

He leaned away, frowning. “Who? Your ex-boyfriends?”

Come on, she seemed to say with her eyes.

Rowan let out a dry laugh. “I’ll pass.”

“Very well, then.” A sigh. “Also, we never discussed what we’re doing after we’re married.”

Yes, they haven’t, and for a reason that kept him up a night.

She continued, “My dad is convinced we’re moving to Doranelle after we marry. Is that what you think we should do?

“I don’t know, Fireheart, this is something you should be telling me.”

“What do you mean?”

“Aelin, I’m not marrying you to cage you.” Rowan fiddled with the fingers on her left hand, trying and failing not to show his nerves too much as he said, “Once we’re married, you’re free.”

“Is that what you want?”

“You’re missing the point.” Rowan ran a hand through his hand, staring at the gentle crash of the lake’s small waves while he searched for the right words to explain his plan. “It’s not about what I want. You can use my last name or keep yours, live with me or move to the Red Desert if you wish. Once we marry, you’re free from your father to do whatever you want.”

Gulls flew by, crying out in a way that Rowan couldn’t help but relate. As Aelin regarded him with a profound silence, he knew that this was it. All the time Rowan wondered if this was real or he was just fucking himself over to get a broken heart in return—she was about to lay his fate in front of him.

“Though what you’re doing is much appreciated…” Aelin trailed, then beheld him for a moment with such tenderness and sincerity he couldn’t look away.

“I love you, Rowan, and I will follow you to whatever end.”

For a long moment, he said nothing. But his brows narrowed slightly. “To whatever end?”

She nodded, interlacing their fingers together without taking her eyes off his.

Rowan squeezed her hand. “You said you wanted to travel without people following your every step, but I hope you can make an exception for me.”

“Sounds perfect, actually.”

She grinned, and the feeling it evoked in him made all the effort he was making look like nothing compared to it. Rowan would easily start a war for that smile alone.

“And Aelin?”

“Yeah?”

“I love you too.”

She pushed Rowan’s chest so he could lay on his back, then rested her head atop it. If Aelin could read into his erratic heartbeat, at least they’d be married in a couple of days.

˜

Later that day, Rowan was summoned for the umpteenth time since settling the engagement—the wedding planner was the worst of all, but this time it was Rhoe who requested him on his office.

And by the frightened look his secretary wore, his soon-to-be father-in-law wasn’t having a good day.

The man was already waiting for him, and the air inside the office felt eerie. The entire time they exchanged pleasantries, it lacked the false warmth Rhoe used to compliment Rowan’s false title.

“Do you know about Aelin’s mother?” The older man finally asked.

“Yes, sir.”

“I don’t need to remind you about the ties your family has to the Ashryvers, do I?”

“You don’t, sir.”

He leaned back in his chair, regarding him with a sinister smirk. “Now, imagine my surprise when, after I send the invitations, Aelin’s uncle calls me to congratulate on the wedding and says how surprised he is that you decided to marry someone with royal blood.” Rhoe cocked his head, the lethal intensity of his glare piercing through the faux-prince. “I’m sure you already know how our conversation went after.”

He swallowed. A cold, paralyzing fear spread through his body—what frightened Rowan wasn’t the man before him, but how he held Aelin’s fate in his greedy hands.

“I can imagine, sir.”

Rhoe opened a drawer and pulled a stack of papers Rowan knew too well. “Is there anything you want to add before we go over the penalties for breach of contract?”

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[theflyindutchwoman]

What are you doing? I'm keeping you company. You don't have to do that. I know.

| ANATOMY OF A SCENE - CHENFORD EDITION 5.05 - The Fugitive

This scene has such a nostalgic feel… With the references to Tim's old injury and the subtle Day of Death undertones, it brings us right back to Tim and Lucy's old dynamic. It also grants them a much needed moment of truce amidst their current awkwardness… a respite from all the confusion… Not everything is fixed - there are too many remaining unsaid things… But the reassurance that their bond is still intact is what matters the most in that instant.

Throughout the episode, we got glimpses of how worried Lucy was. But once she is made aware of Tim's laparoscopy surgery, she goes almost frantic. There's this very sweet moment when she enters his hospital room, where she takes a breath and tries to rein it in so as not to overwhelm him. Despite her effort, she can't quite completely hide how beside herself she is. His little hey is the softest thing. So is his little smile when he's trying to reassure her that he's going to be fine… and trying to explain why he asked to keep her in the dark. She looks so hurt for a second. And it's understandable with how things have been between them lately. I could see her mind making up scenarios as to why, wondering if she may have ruined their relationship.

The fact that he simply didn't want to worry her is actually extremely mindful - and misguided, because she was always going to anyway. And it's not that he didn't trust her to handle his surgery - rather, it was an act of love. Just like Grey didn't want to worry Luna after his shooting… The way she immediately teases him about this and his deflection are just so reminiscent of Day of Death - when he tried to deny staying all night at her bedside. Just like then, Lucy can see through him. For the first time since Vegas, they can allow themselves to simply bask in each other's presence, without feeling self-conscious about it. Their little smiles are everything. They look so at peace here. Like they're finally home. Tim taking time to praise her is also a nice touch… It's the fact that, despite his surgery, he still knew how she did at the station that says everything about his feelings.

But some things have changed and Lucy is the one who addresses the elephant in the room : Ashley's absence. Her wariness is comprehensible after feeling like a third wheel earlier. Though I get why Tim lies to her here. Given the fact that he was unceremoniously dumped when he was barely conscious, there's no way he had time to fully process or even digest what has happened. And since he's making headway with Lucy, I can also understand him not wanting to do anything that could rock the boat. Like talking about his breakup would. In that moment, it's not about Ashley. It's about him and Lucy. The fact that her response is to simply shrug it off and stay by his side just shows that she was merely trying not to overstep. The way she takes time to subtly check his monitor, making sure everything is alright is so inherently her. As is the fact that she intends on staying to keep him company. This is so natural to her that his bewilderment surprises her… and unknowingly to her, that's what Tim needed to hear. He needed to be reminded that there's someone who isn't going to bail on him when things get tough. She never did before and regardless of their current awkwardness, she's still going to stay by his side. His little smile at the end conveys everything… like how much this means to him… and how much he's fallen for her… Let's not even start on the intensity of Lucy's gaze. Officer Bradford should be getting out of intensive care today. If you have some time after your shift, I'm sure he won't appreciate it. Well, turns out he does… when it's Lucy.

[weenwrites]

So i would like to request tfp Predaking spending Christmas with his S/O (gender doesn't matter)

[ Please do not repost, plagiarize, or use my writing for AI! Translating my work with proper credit is acceptable, but please ask first! ]

His understanding of Christmas is non-existent, so you'll have to explain what it's significance is, and of course that varies from person to person. But regardless of how important the holiday may be to you, he still treats it as something of utmost importance! If anyone were to try and ruin your Christmas day, he would skewer them with his claws and roast them alive.

When it comes to setting up a tree, he thought that any tree could do, so he went and uprooted a living tree just for you, and he even seems so happy with himself for being proactive in understanding and appreciating human holidays with his s/o. The look of embarrassment on his face after you tell him that he didn't need to dig up a tree is something you'll never forget. If you weren't close, he'd be threatening you to never mention this to anyone, but he trusts that you wouldn't embarrass him like that! As for the decoration of said tree he's too large to help place the small delicate ornaments on the branches, but he can help set up any garlands or place the star at the very top.

Alternatively if you have to prepare for any large family gatherings or if you celebrate Christmas in a way that deviates from the Western way (e.g. preparing a piñata for any younger extended family) or have to attend midnight mass, he still tries to join or help you.

Initially he thinks that the carolers out front may be harassing or pestering you, and he has no qualms with driving any humans away if you so desire, but luckily you had stopped him before he did anything rash. Now that he understands that singing Christmas songs are part of the holiday spirit, he thinks the carolers are still odd, but he leaves them be.

Now when it comes to gifts he tries to get you gifts, even if it means he has to steal. Unless you explicitly told him you didn't want him stealing, well, he'll try to hand-craft a gift for you instead. He tries making some ornate trinkets out of scrap metal that he heated with his own flames and then bent into shape. And he even tries to wrap them. Though on Christmas day when he gives you his gift, it's in a giant crate that he technically has to open for you since it's so big, but the gesture and the overall effort he poured into it makes it all worthwhile.

[all-chords-in-sync]

Your tie should be on the center line, your shirt must not protrude from your vest, your trouser creases should be perfectly straight, and always aligned with the tips of your shoes.

I used to live by this mantra, so, of course, it would extend to my every experience, including holiday gift exchanges.

There's something satisfying about a flawlessly wrapped present -- I can't deny that.

That said, if every present were indeed wrapped flawlessly, I can't help but wonder whether that wouldn't make them impossible to differentiate.

Perhaps an assortment of presents wrapped with various different methods might be more... visually enriching. Moreover, the handiwork of the wrapping can say a great deal about the sentiments of the person who prepared it. A quirk in the way the paper is folded or in how the bow is tied, or even the choice of wrapping paper itself, might serve as a fond reminder of the friend from whom you received the gift. And what is the occasion of exchanging gifts if not a fond reminder of our loved ones?

Additionally, I can't help but imagine a scenario in which one instead feels great disdain at ruining the impeccable handiwork of a perfectly packaged gift. Yes, presents are wrapped primarily for the presentation, but also for one to experience the joy and excitement of unwrapping them and discovering the surprise inside. Getting too particular about the details could very easily subtract from the experience of exchanging and unwrapping gifts, in the form of precious effort expended on a task of diminishing returns.

In conclusion, I believe I will appreciate a gift regardless of whether it is wrapped in a meticulous manner, or in a way that one might describe as more fun and carefree. As some might say, it's the thought that counts.

Ah, but I have rambled on for quite some time already. My opinion on gifts notwithstanding, I wish you all a festive winter holiday season.

[supervillain-smut]

You should do a Ruben/Ruvik fanfic or headcanons about what dating him would be like, also about being intimate together >///.///< Like what his turn ons would be, favorite body part of his SO, and stuff along those lines 🙌🏻

I can't believe I haven't written Ruben headcanons yet... either that or my own tags lied to me. It's Tumblr, there's like a 50/50 chance. Anyways!

SFW Dating hcs:

Unfortunately the only way you're getting to date Ruben Victoriano is if you knew him at a specific point in time; once he's working at Beacon/for Mobius he has 0 interest in anyone around him no matter the... pleasurable qualities.

You'd have to know him from childhood. Maybe your parents knew each other and you had play dates before the accident?

Regardless, dating him comes with many downs and not a lot of ups; you'd have to really understand him, his emotions, his mental state; he'd be very obviously torn in his affections.

On the one hand, Laura. His world, his entire reason for living and creating STEM... on the other, there's you, staying by his side, understanding, helping any way you can, keeping secrets, not attempting to pull him away or discourage him from his work, dealing with the seizures, the outbursts, the accidental hurtful words, the violence and sadism...

You know you're sharing his love with someone that isn't even on this earth anymore. You can't deny it, try as hard as you'd like, he makes it painfully obvious, so find comfort in the fact he's choosing to share his love at all.

But in the lighter side of things, he's attentive. To things you like, say, feel. He's noticeably softer with you then he is with anyone else. He cuts out time for you, and does his best to ensure you don't feel neglected.

Soft touches, spending time curled up watching a movie under a hundred blankets; he knows he's difficult, and he praises you for all that you do when he gets the chance.

He doesn't miss a thing that you do for him. Not one, even if he doesn't bring it up immediately. You'll have cleaned the house early in the morning, and he'll pass by you occasionally as you do so without a word. You'll be having dinner that night and out of the silence... "The house looks amazing. It'd fall apart to ruins with just me living here. Thank you for that. I appreciate it greatly." He'd hold eye contact with you to make sure it all sank in and that he's saying it directly to you, not just staring down at his food and making a passing comment about it, his eyes soft with a small smile on his lips.

NSFW 18+ only beyond this point

Ruben despises how little mobility his burns give him, but god he just can't lie to himself that you don't look fucking incredible riding him like this.

Ruben isn't very vocal, but his hands wander frequently, grasping at you like you'd dissappear if he let go.

He likes to pleasure you, likes studying your reactions to stimulation in different areas; are your breasts more sensitive then your clit? When he finds that spot inside you and curls his fingers into it, how much louder do you get? Will you arch your back off of the bed? What if he adds his mouth? Do your hands clench the sheets impossibly tighter?

Similarly, he's curious about the things you manage to do to him; those eyes, it turns him on so badly when they're so obviously needy, dilated with lust only for him, he can never say no to those eyes. So he diverts them in an attempt to resist. But then your hands, your hands wander his torso, the affection always welcome, but when they're driven by your need, they feel so much warmer; they search.

Oh, and when you palm him through his pants, he can't help but buck into your touch. When your mouth kisses along his neck, he can't help but sigh. You're always so careful and conscious of his burns, so delicate. He gets hard sometimes just thinking about it.

His favorite thing is when you suck him off and you decide to focus your efforts on just his sensitive tip; he never can hold himself back for long, no matter how hard he tries. He loves how obedient you are to him, but those moments when you take control are everything to him; you're not afraid of him, you're just choosing to listen.

Your independence is the most attractive quality, he loves how he has to work to keep you, to satisfy you. So many people let him walk all over them, but not you. You push back, and he loves it. Likes to rile you up on purpose just to bring you back down. Or, even better, simply bend you over a table and get both of your aggression out that way.

[vivicheri]

Can I get Dethklok with a pastel goth reader?

You sure can!

Pastel Goth x Dethklok

Nathan Explosion:

Judges a little bit on what you wear because he might not find it “brutal” enough at first

However, he does eventually come around and he begrudgingly allows you to pastel him up.

The big guy acts like he’s above being pampered and getting makeup thrown on him, but truthfully he doesn’t mind at all. As long as you’re the one doing it, he’s happy.

Asks a couple of questions about being pastel goth, and you guys have in depth conversations about it.

Develops a respect and understanding for pastel goths, and considers it to be brutal. Also, he just admires how cute and sexy your outfits are, regardless of the color scheme.

If anyone dares to make fun of you, he simply holds you closer and ignores them, asking a little hesitantly if you’re okay when you’re both alone.

Pickles:

His past experience with makeup from Snakes n Barrels definitely helps him understand your style more. He for sure helps you with your eyeliner, and he takes the time to admire your beauty.

Isn’t crazy about the pale colors, but incorporated with black is pretty cool.

Literally as long as you feel confident, he supports you no matter what

He’s all about supporting what makes people feel comfortable in their own skin (trans pickles hc is incorporated here)

He is all about picking out the gothic parts of your outfit, while you pick out the pastel parts. Team effort, he’s a fuckin’ sweetie.

Because he’s such a sweetheart, if there’s a chance that you get made fun of in public for how you look, you hardly think about it because pickles knocked them right to the floor in one foul punch. And he will reassure you and show you off.

Murderface:

Somewhat misogynistic at first depending if you present as feminine. He’s like “of coursh women have to ruin the goth look!”

He might make some bad jokes about you being goth and you might have to playfully punch him.

He doesn’t want a single person to judge you, especially in public. He will curse someone out if anybody tries to bark at you or is just an asshole.

After some time, Murderface might start to dress a bit more gothic, experimenting with mascara and eyeliner. You have to help the poor bass player, but you don’t mind at all. Having him in your grasp is just euphoric in itself. And no matter how much he pisses and moans, he likes it too.

Couldn’t tell the difference between pastel goths and e-people for a while, and you had to explain it to him a few times before he understood.

Overall, he’s pretty cool about it, but it takes him some time.

Toki:

It’s no secret that the Norwegian has some personality traits that are similar to that of a child. Does not make him a child, but it makes him appreciate the usage of softer colors.

Is an absolute sweetheart and can watch you model pastel gothic outfits for him all day. He’ll even make it like there’s a runway for you, snapping some photos with a wide smile on his face.

Will actually kill somebody if they judge how you look. He will lay them out like that one guy in that one episode. (I’m great at references, I know.)

He fucking adores you and will 100% support right from the get go, and will ask to come along when you go clothes shopping.

The guitarist definitely likes to pamper himself up too, and he would love to match some outfits with you :) he will even do his hair the same way you do yours, although you might need to fix it.

I’m probably biased because toki is my actual husband and I love him so so much

Skwisgaar:

The lead guitarist is a little bit weary at first, but here’s the reality; he fucking loves the feminine form. If it’s shown off in any way, he will not care what you wear. Hell, he thinks you could pull off wearing a trash bag.

He preferably likes it when you mix baby blue into the mix, because his eyes are nearly that shade. He wants to be a part of you in that way, and you definitely comply.

He likes to wear white and black, not so much pastel colors. However, he tries his best. He might surprise you with baby blue elements in his outfit, or maybe a light pink accent.

Absolutely gives no fucks about what anybody thinks about you, and his voice echoes through your ears instead of what some jackoff said.

He won’t mind if you try to do his makeup, but he’s actually pretty proficient at it himself. When you’re mad about how your makeup didn’t turn out right, he’ll fix it delicately with the swipe of the thumb, or the extra bit of mascara.

All in all, he’s supportive and thinks you look just as attractive in that style, if not more!

Aaaa thank you for another suggestion! I tried. Also, just got back from the dethklok concert :3

If y’all like the stories please give me a follow! I would really appreciate it and would give me initiative to keep writing!

[teaberrii]

Chapter Twenty-Eight: My Catnip

Alhaitham has the looks and the smarts. He will also be the stand-in CEO for his grandfather's company for a year.

But, he's been mysteriously cursed to turn into a cat every night since his eighteenth birthday… until he meets you, an employee at his grandfather's company, who rescues him as a cat and changes him back with one kiss.

Alhaitham/You

Notes:

Cross-posted on AO3

Female reader

Chapter index at the end of chapter one

Chapter notes: I couldn't help referencing my Cyno cat story... XD If you know, you know.

You haven't seen or heard from Alhaitham in almost a week, but you're counting the days until your families finally meet. 

How will your relationship turn out? Will you become strangers? Friends? Regardless of what happens, your dynamic with Alhaitham has changed, and it may never return to how it used to be.

When you finally see Alhaitham, he’s sitting next to his mother at a long table. His grandfather and secretary are also present. Alhaitham's eyes meet yours, but what surprises you is the way he looks at you. It’s as if nothing has changed. Yet, he remains pensive, and so do you. This is no time to be reflecting on your feelings or whatnot. Both of you know and understand what kind of situation this is.

Lumine and Aether trail in after you and your mother. You and your mother take center stage while Aether stands beside you and Lumine beside your mother. You’re holding your mother’s hand, reassuring her you have your back if anything goes wrong.

“...Let’s not mince words,” your mother says, her voice slightly shaking. “You were the one who hit my husband.”

Alhaitham’s mother takes a breath. “...Yes.” Then, she bows. “I’m truly sorry.” A short moment later, she stands upright. “I’ve caused you and your family a lot of pain… and I’m willing to compensate for my actions.”

Your shoulders feel a little lighter.

“...You want something in return,” your mother says, narrowing her eyes. “I’m not a fool. You hid this for so long, so for you to come clean about it now, it’s more than guilt. There’s something you want.”

“I’m willing to compensate and atone, but I only ask that… there is no media noise. I wish to settle this privately.”

“...And if I refuse?”

Everyone looks at your mother.

“...Mom,” Lumine says quietly.

She steps forward, and you cautiously let go of her hand. “You don’t want your reputation to be ruined," your mother says.

"That's right. I don't. Again, I sincerely apologize for the pain I caused your family. But, I worked far too long and far too hard for all of my efforts to come crashing down. I simply request a quiet resolution so we can move on from this."

Something twisted inside you wants to see her career crash and burn. She let your father die, for crying out loud. But… what good will that do? It’s not going to bring your father back. Besides, she’s already willing to compensate and atone.

You’re also not a fool.

You know that a big part of the reason why she’s doing this is so she can get some leniency. You look at Alhaitham. You know he knows too, and he probably proposed it to her as well.

Is that the reason why he told you about what his mother had done? If he didn’t… would his mother even admit all of this? But since he told you, there’s a risk of you going to the police. It would hurt his mother more. Thinking about it leaves a bitter taste in your mouth.

There are obviously more pros than cons to him telling you. Alhaitham could've hidden it from you and continued dating you as if nothing happened. It has been so long, after all. 

No matter how you look at it, Alhaitham is also thinking about you.

“...I accept,” your mother finally says.

You subtly nod in agreement. What good will it do if the media gets wind of this? You’d also be put into the spotlight, and your private life would become a movie for everyone’s entertainment. There’s absolutely no way you’re going to let that happen.

“...Thank you. I appreciate it.”

The meeting ends with the parties agreeing to communicate the rest through a lawyer and going through the legal proceedings of this fiasco. You sigh softly once you're outside. It'd gone better than you imagined. Everyone is civil, but that doesn't mean you'll simply forgive and forget. You definitely won't forget. But can you ever forgive? 

“Sis?”

You turn around and see Aether. “What’s wrong?”

“I was worried about you,” he says, walking up to you. “That… went better than we thought, huh?”

You smile slightly. "...Yeah, it did."

“U-um… maybe right now isn’t the right time to bring this up, but…”

“You want to ask about Alhaitham, right?”

Aether subtly nods. “What are you going to do now?”

You sigh. “I wish I have an answer for you.”

“...So, you’re still not sure?”

"I will never forget what his mother did,” you say. “And... I doubt I can forgive her. Maybe some people can, but I can’t. I have nothing against him, Aether, if that’s what you’re wondering. Alhaitham… he’s truly wonderful.”

"I think so, too," he says quietly. "Do you remember the day he came to talk to me at the hospital? The day where I almost got into trouble with those guys bothering Ayaka?"

“Yeah.”

"Well… no one has ever talked to me that seriously before. I mean… all the other 'adults' I ever talk to, they treat me like a kid, or they don't take me seriously. But, he was different."

“In other words, you felt like he was respecting you.”

Aether nods. “Yeah, he was technically giving me a lesson, but it didn’t feel… condescending, you know.”

“Are you here to convince me to get back together with him?”

“I may not be that smart, but I really can’t think of a reason why he would do this if he didn’t… love you,” Aether says, awkwardly scratching his head. “And… he gives off good vibes. I know everyone’s still pretty tense and stuff because of what’s happening, but I hope you don’t give up on him that easily.”

You put an arm around your brother. “There’s a time and place for everything. I think… for right now, it’s a little early to be thinking about that stuff. When lawyers get involved, well, there’s no room to talk about your feelings.”

“...So, I guess everyone is still on an emotional high. Even though things seem so calm right now.”

From afar, Alhaitham sees you kiss your brother’s head. He’d been debating whether to approach you and ultimately decides against it.

"...You aren't going to talk to her?" Alhaitham turns and sees his grandfather looking in your direction. "She's a strong lady."

Alhaitham subtly smiles. “...Yes, she is.”

His grandfather turns to him. “Are you just going to let this be? What if she misunderstands your silence?”

“...There are other ways to show that I’m thinking about her. I know she has a lot to think about.”

“What if her decision isn’t what you’re hoping for?”

“I’ll respect whatever decision she makes,” Alhaitham says. “...Even if we end up going our separate ways, I will always cheer her on from afar.”

His grandfather nods with a subtle smile. “Since when did you become so grown up, Haitham?”

“Perhaps it was when you appointed me as CEO.”

His grandfather laughs. “Well, maybe I should put you in these positions more often then.”

“...No, thank you.”

You and Aether are about to walk back to your mother's car when you see Alhaitham with his grandfather, who's laughing at something. As if he knows you're looking his way, Alhaitham turns slightly, his eyes meeting yours. Your stares linger for a little too long until you look away.

◆◆◆

When Zhongli's wedding comes around, your mother is still dealing with the legal proceedings. You've been keeping a close eye on her, ensuring she isn't losing sleep over this. You've also been paying close attention to how everything unfolds. You aren't going to show any mercy. So far, things are going well, which makes bumping into Alhaitham a little easier.

Before Zhongli's wedding, you happen to meet Alhaitham a couple of times.

The first time is at the company, days after the meeting with your families.

You are walking down the hallway when he turns the corner. The two of you look a little surprised but actively decide not to ignore each other.

“...How have you been?” he asks.

“I’ve… been sleeping better,” you say with a little smile. “How have you been? Besides, you know, drowning in meetings probably.”

Alhaitham smiles slightly. "I've gotten used to it." Then, with a look of concern in his eyes, he asks, "...You haven't been sleeping well?"

"It's probably the humidity."

Both of you know the real reason.

"...Well, you aren't alone. It's only recently I started sleeping a little better, too." Then, Alhaitham notices something in your hair. He slightly raises a hand and looks you in the eyes. "...There's something in your hair. May I?" Your heart suddenly races as you subtly nod. He reaches over and takes the tiny leaf. 

Suddenly, you hear someone call your name. You look past Alhaitham and see one of your colleagues.

“I, um, I should go,” you say.

Alhaitham nods and slightly turns to watch you leave.

The second time you bump into Alhaitham is at the grocery store near your apartment.

You see him in one of the aisles, and it's cute how seriously he's looking at the two snack brands in his hands. 

“...Need a second opinion?” you ask. Alhaitham looks surprised to see you beside him. You point to the one in his left hand. “This one tastes better.”

Alhaitham puts the other back on the shelf. “I’ll take your word for it.” Then, he looks back at you. “I didn’t know you liked these.”

“Blame Nari. He got me addicted.”

Before Alhaitham can stop himself, he leans slightly closer. "Hm… Is that why you look… a little different?"

“Are you... Are you calling me fat?” 

“I never said that.”

You frown. “Well, that’s what you were insinuating.”

“Would you like me to be honest?”

“...I’m prepared.”

Then, Alhaitham looks you straight in the eyes and says, “You got prettier.”

You're prepared, but not for that. You almost drop the snacks you're holding. “I… that’s… well, of course, I did.”

Alhaitham chuckles as you blush. That’s when you notice the small bag of catnip in his basket.

"...Is that catnip?" you ask. Alhaitham looks at his basket and moves something on top. You eye him suspiciously. "Are you… taking that daily?"

“No…”

“You’re lying,” you deadpan.

“I wouldn’t lie to you.”

You hold his stare for a little too long.

“...It’s been helping me sleep,” Alhaitham admits. “But I don't take it every day.”

You reach into your basket and grab the honey lemon tea bags. Then, you hold it out to him. “...Try this. It's been helping me.”

Alhaitham takes it from you. As he did, his fingers brush against yours, and you feel a sudden, brief adrenaline rush throughout your body. Good Lord. What was that? Did he feel it, too?

“...I’ll try it tonight.”

“Um… tell me how it goes.”

“...Is that permission for me to text you?”

This time, he holds your stare for a little too long.

You and Alhaitham haven't texted in a long while. Though neither of you said not to, it's like an unspoken rule.

“...Well, I’d like to know that the person I care about isn’t getting addicted to anything.”

“Catnip isn’t bad for cats,” Alhaitham says. He almost puts his hand on your cheek. “...You don’t have to worry. But, I’ll take your answer as a yes unless otherwise.”

"Glad to know you can read between the lines, Catman."

You and Alhaitham look at each other, unable to hold back a smile.

The third time you bump into Alhaitham is at Zhongli's wedding.

You're wearing a light pastel pink suit. The blazer is unbuttoned, revealing a white, low-cut top inside. It's one of Candace's designs, and as soon as you tried it on, you loved it.

The last person you're expecting to see is Alhaitham. His hair is slicked back, and he's wearing a red dress shirt with a black blazer and pants. When he sees you, you turn and sip the wine in your glass... as if you hadn't been checking him out.

That’s when Childe and Ayato walk up to you.

"Why am I not surprised to see you in a suit?" Childe asks.

You give them each a hug. “You clean up well, Childe,” you joke, looking at his dark blue suit.

You kept Childe and Ayato in the loop about what’s been happening with Alhaitham. You gave Lumine permission to get Childe up to speed, and Childe also called to check up on you. You gave Ayato a rundown when you saw him earlier today.

“Small world, huh?” Childe asks, looking past you. You look over your shoulder and see Alhaitham with his hand in a pocket and talking with Zhongli and Kaveh. “They’re old friends. Can you believe it?”

You turn back and sigh softly. “I… somehow don’t like that phrase anymore. The world is too small.”

“Still, I think it’s healthy the way you two are handling it,” Ayato says.

You finish the rest of your wine. “I’d like to hear about you two.” Then, you look at Childe. “...How’s your mom?”

Childe smiles. “She’s getting better. I… also had a talk with them.”

“It sounds like things went well,” Ayato says.

“...You think the company is doing me dirty?” Childe asked.

"You're my son, Childe," his mother said. "I've always known you were interested in the Creative Arts."

“...Then… shouldn’t you encourage me? Why—”

"We wanted you to keep it as a hobby," his father interrupted. "We had no reason to take what you enjoy away. But, things are different when money is involved.”

“So… you thought that I would get the short end of the stick? I always thought you looked down on creatives.”

“We would never support someone going into that kind of industry,” his father said. “We don’t look down on the person. It’s the industry.”

Childe sighed. “...I mean… yes, everything is still dependent upon numbers. But…”

“...But?” When Childe said nothing, his mother continued, “We didn’t understand why your company was still assigning you to write commercial scripts. You deserve better, Childe.”

How was he going to break it to them that was not the case?

“That’s why your mother wanted you to come back,” his father said. “I know people who will give you better assignments.”

“...Before I came, my manager asked me the same question,” Childe said. His father and mother looked at each other. “He asked if I wanted to take up something more difficult.”

“What did you say?” 

“I… I said I was comfortable with what I’m doing.”

His father sighed loudly. “...So, the problem was with you all along.”

“I—”

“It’s true I’ve always wanted you to go into business. If that’s not what you want, fine. But ever since you took this career path you chose for yourself, you’ve been stuck doing the same thing. Isn’t writing something you’ve always been interested in? Then, why are you not taking challenges? If I forced this upon you, then it would be my fault. But you’re destroying yourself.”

Childe’s mother took her husband’s hand. “You’re being a little too harsh on him.”

“I’m saying what needs to be said.”

“...Do you want to know the reason?” Childe asked quietly.

Once Childe finishes his story, you’re in complete shock. You’ve known him for so long, yet you never knew about his inferiority complex towards you. He has always shown support and happiness toward your achievements.

“...I called my manager a few days ago,” Childe says. “I told him I want to be part of the writing team that’s adapting that Webtoon for the small screen. It may not be my story… but it’s a start.”

Ayato smiles at him. “Everyone starts somewhere.”

"Gosh. It's not just Signora I need to watch out for now," you say. You smile at Childe. "I have a new rival."

“Is that sarcasm?” Childe asks.

“No! I’m genuinely happy for you, Childe. Healthy rivalry helps both people grow.”

“Hey, what are we talkin’ about over here?”

You look past your friends and see Tighnari and Cyno.

“Hm… I guess we can say we’re celebrating some new beginnings,” you say.

Ayato smiles. “That’s one way to put it.”

Cyno and Tighnari smile at each other. “Well, can we join in?”

“That depends,” Childe jokes. “What are you two celebrating?”

“...I came out to my parents,” Cyno says. He looks at Tighnari. “I formally introduced him the other day.”

“That definitely needs a toast,” you say. “Congrats!”

From afar, Alhaitham sees you chatting with Ayato and Childe. When he saw you in that suit earlier, he couldn't look away. You look absolutely breathtaking. The three of you are laughing about something until Cyno and Tighnari join the conversation. Soon, Aether, Ayaka, and Lumine also come around, and the group clinks their glasses together as if celebrating something.

“How long have you known her?”

Alhaitham looks at Zhongli. “...Who?”

Zhongli nods toward you. “I see the way you look at her. Is… there something going on?”

“It’s complicated,” Kaveh answers.

“...That’s one way to put it,” Alhaitham says.

“How do you know her, by the way?” Kaveh asks.

“She was my junior in university,” Guizhong, Zhongli’s wife, says, coming up to the group. She stands beside her husband.

Zhongli nods. “I met her through my wife.”

“Junior?” Kaveh asks. “But didn’t you study Law?”

“She was the one who wrote the script for the faculty promotional video,” Guizhong says. “I was a volunteer for the production team.”

“She’s talented from what I hear,” Zhongli says.

Guizhong smiles. “Yes. I told you she won the award for Best Screenwriter at the Best Hit Awards.”

“Oh, my God! I’m so sorry!”

Everyone turns and sees you looking down at your ruined blouse. A man with white spiked hair looks horrified at what just happened.

A woman with green hair tied into a ponytail quickly comes up to you. “Are you all right?" She quickly pulls out a handkerchief. "I apologize for this. He wasn’t watching where he was going.”

Just when you take the handkerchief, Guizhong quickly walks up to you. “I have something you can change into."

You give Guizhong a little smile. “Thanks. That would help.”

As you walk away with her, the woman with the ponytail says, "It's time for you to stop drinking, Boss."

Eventually, Guizhong leads you into a vacant room at the back of the wedding venue. She hands you a bag, and you see a light pink summer dress inside.

“I hope this will do.”

You take it from her. “I’ll take pretty much anything right now.”

“Let me know if you need anything.”

Then, you walk inside the room and lock the door behind you. You change out of your dirty clothes and into Guizhong's dress. Except, the only problem is that you can't get the zipper to zip. After trying multiple times, you sigh and slightly open the door. You peek outside, hoping to see Guizhong or someone—

Your eyes widen. “Haitham?”

Alhaitham is leaning against the opposite wall. He looks at you, a little surprised.

“What are you doing here?” you ask.

Alhaitham just came out of the washroom when he bumped into Guizhong.

“Oh, Haitham, good timing,” she said, smiling. “Could you do me a favour?”

“A favour?”

“I have to give a speech, but she’s at the back changing into clothes I got her. Could you check on her and see if she needs anything?”

Alhaitham nodded.

“Is something wrong?” Alhaitham asks.

“...Um… well… promise not to laugh?”

Alhaitham raises a brow. “Okay.”

“The zipper won’t zip.” Alhaitham almost chuckles, and you catch that little smile. “You said you wouldn’t laugh,” you deadpan.

“Perhaps it’s the snacks.”

You frown. “Since when did you become a comedian?”

“...If you don’t mind, I could help.”

You look around and sigh. It doesn’t look like you have a choice. So, you let Alhaitham inside. He closes the door behind him. You’re standing in front of a mirror, holding the dress, when he walks up behind you.

You feel one of his hands on your bare shoulder, and you tense up. 

"...Relax," he says softly, and your eyes widen. 

Soon, you feel the dress tightening as he zips you up from the back. You almost jump in surprise when you feel one of his hands on top of the one that’s holding your dress together.

“...You’re not holding it tight enough,” he says quietly.

You try holding it a little tighter. "How's this?"

You feel him try again, and your face turns red. This is so embarrassing. 

"May I?"

“Ah… yeah…”

You slowly let go, allowing yourself to focus on Alhaitham in the mirror as he zips you up. Then, he moves his hands away from you and says, "...All done."

That’s when his eyes meet yours in the mirror, and he smiles. You turn around, and your breath catches in your throat when you see how close he is. You stare at each other, the silence teeming with unspoken messages. When he slowly moves his hand behind your head, your eyes move to his lips.

“...I don't think I can ever let you go.”

You slowly look back up. It's the first time you've seen such a rollercoaster of emotions in his eyes. Sadness. Happiness. Love. Desire. Warmth. It's as if he's spiralling out of control.

“...If you don’t push me away”—Alhaitham leans closer—”I’m going to kiss you.”

There’s no turning back now.

You grab his shirt collar and pull him towards you until your mouth is on his.

Your mind goes blank as your emotions take the reigns. One kiss after another makes you lose all sense of time and space, drowning you in an intense wave where you almost forget to breathe. Nothing could’ve prepared you for this moment where it’s just you and him pouring raw emotions into a kiss that speaks volumes. You're revelling in this fire that only Alhaitham can spark.

Your hands are in his hair, pulling him closer. His hand runs down your back; his body flush against yours. The kiss twists. It turns. And, slowly, as it comes down from its high, it burns and melds until it feels like gold.

You’re the first to break away. Your face is red and your lips are burning as reality starts to hit. You stare at each other, and you can see that Alhaitham is also grappling with his emotions.

Before neither of you can say anything, you hear a knock at the door.

“Sis?”

“Don’t tell me Haitham is in there with you!”

It’s your brother and Kaveh. You and Alhaitham look at each other. When the knock comes again, you quickly compose yourself and open the door.

“Sis!”

Aether and Kaveh look at each other. “Why are you calling my sister Sis?” your brother asks.

“Take a guess, kid.” Then, Kaveh notices Alhaitham. “Haitham!” Kaveh looks back at you and smiles. “So… you two were together.”

“It’s not like that,” you say quietly.

Aether and Kaveh look at each other, their expressions mimicking each other's. Of course, they doubt you. You're doubting yourself.

Alhaitham comes up behind you. “...She needed help.”

“Help?” Aether asks, raising a brow. “With what?”

You clear your throat and walk out of the room. “It’s nothing. Did you need something?”

“You and Haitham were gone for a while, so we came to check up on you,” Kaveh says. “Guizhong told us where you were. Don’t tell me we… interrupted something.”

Aether gasps. “Sis! We’re at someone’s wedding!”

Your face instantly turns red. “It wasn’t like that!” Then, you sigh. “Let’s go.”

Before Aether can say anything else, you put your hands on his shoulders, spin him around, and refuse to answer more questions.

Kaveh looks at Alhaitham. “It’s not like you to get so caught up in your emotions.” When Alhaitham doesn’t respond, his ex-roommate smiles. “But… it feels good, right?”

It didn’t just feel good. It was euphoric.

“Did it feel better than catnip?” Kaveh jokes.

Before Alhaitham can stop himself, he says, “She’s my catnip.”

Kaveh laughs and Alhaitham groans softly, knowing he'll never hear the end of this.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

End notes: There are only 1-2 chapters of this left... o_o. Even I'm a little surprised LOL... The next chapter may be the last chapter, depending on how things go. Let's see...

Tag list: @suoshiii @lordbugs @seirenspinel @lxry-chxn @sakiimeo @ash-in-lavender @ceylestia @forsh4dow @deathkat657 @kalpie @elernity @sentieence @chichibleeps @sunsethw4 @hjjks @tanspostsblog @nqctre @just-simping-over-genshin @uchihaeirin @vynbin @ayanokomu @dksfl920 @rin1802 @itztaki @thetwinkims @imkaaayy @angeilix @starlighttotheleft @letthewindlead @certaindreampost @winterpein @warrior-of-justice @theprinceofkhaos @vvyeislazzy @n8mareee

[bigsoftmarshmallow]

Hello, I'm feeling a lot better now! I took a nap!

Anyway, I read your horse reaction & it made me wonder something.

In regards to the horse ask, I wonder how TotK would react to ELady discovering that the Gerdàn Horses (the Giant Horse), who could traverse the sands, were no longer being bred? And informing him of such. And, what if she discovered that, in ancient times, the Gerudo had a tradition of horseback archery that had been lost to time & told him of such? My thoughts are that she might've found murals in the ruins of the Temple of the Goddess of the Sand in the Depths. (As per my theory that the old Hyrule is the Depths.) Then, proceed to locate both the Giant Horse & its implied offspring, the Giant White Horse. Which, would allow them to reintroduce the old traditions back to the Gerudo.

Like, OoT, already had this, & TP, WW, & TotK all had this before their sealing. But, I don't recall if HW had one. And, in Wild Era, the Gerudo seemed to have lost a bit of that cultural identity.

Either way, in the case of all but OoT, how would he react to her attempting to reintroduce this to the Gerudo’s culture? Both the Gerudàn Horses & the tradition of horseback archery.

Though, in the case of OoT, how about his reaction to taking an interest in horseback archery & wishing to train in it.

Like, I actually hadn't thought of this, but I could make horseback archery something that she is very interested in, but something that she had something of a blindspot for. And, learning of the Gerudàn tradition, she wishes to unblind said spot.

In the case of WW, this would likely take place after they'd wished the waters away, reintroduced the Peak People & animals (livestock & pack animals included) back to the Golden Land, & established themselves as king & queen.

Unfortunately, the horses of Hyrule & the Gerudo Desert likely went extinct, so they'd need to find some from other countries.

Regardless, their thoughts, feelings, & reactions/opinions?

HYRULE WARRIORS GANONDORF DOES HAVE A HORSE! His intro, when you face him, is him riding in on a dark horse! Then he rises up from it with his magic. His intro is so neat. I love him so much, my little warmonger <3

I genuinely like archery! While untrained, I apparently have a talent for it, as stated by my old college friend. They would occasionally let me "play" with it and try out shooting the targets. It was fun!

I love the horses of the BOTW/TOTK! I made it a mission to catch all the unique ones. The Giant Horse has always been a favorite, though often unused for the faster little ones. Very strong tho!

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Ganondorf (Tears of the Kingdom)

Upon hearing about the lost tradition of the Gerudàn horses and horseback archery, Ganondorf would likely be deeply intrigued and somewhat saddened by the loss of such a significant part of Gerudo heritage. His initial reaction might be one of contemplation, thinking about how these traditions could strengthen the Gerudo people and restore their cultural pride.

Reaction:

As ELady informs him of her discovery, Ganondorf’s eyes would narrow thoughtfully. "The Gerudàn horses... and the art of horseback archery. To think such powerful symbols of our heritage have been lost to time."

He would appreciate ELady’s dedication to uncovering and preserving Gerudo traditions. Her initiative to reintroduce these elements would be seen as a way to not only honor their ancestors but also to empower future generations.

Thoughts and Feelings:

Pride and Respect: Ganondorf would feel a deep sense of pride in ELady for her efforts and respect for her dedication to Gerudo culture.

Determination: He would be determined to see these traditions revived, believing they could strengthen the Gerudo people and instill a sense of unity and pride.

Actions:

Supportive: Ganondorf would fully support her efforts, helping to find and breed the horses and establish training programs for horseback archery.

Active Participation: He might even take part in the training himself, leading by example and demonstrating the importance of these traditions.

Ganondorf (Wind Waker)

Post-restoration of Hyrule, Wind Waker Ganondorf would be fascinated by the idea of reviving ancient Gerudo traditions. With the waters receded and the land restored, this would be the perfect opportunity to re-establish cultural practices.

Reaction:

Upon learning about the lost horses and archery tradition, Ganondorf would be visibly intrigued. "The ancient Gerudo horses and the art of archery from horseback... These would indeed be powerful symbols of our restored land."

Thoughts and Feelings:

Eagerness: He would feel an eagerness to bring back these traditions, seeing them as a way to reconnect with the past and strengthen their new kingdom.

Gratitude: He would be grateful to ELady for her discovery and her dedication to their heritage.

Actions:

Search and Restoration: He would initiate a search for suitable horses from other lands and support the reintroduction of horseback archery.

Royal Endorsement: As king, he would formally endorse these practices, making them a celebrated part of their culture.

Ganondorf (Ocarina of Time)

Ganondorf from Ocarina of Time, already familiar with horseback archery, would be pleased to see ELady taking an interest in it and wishing to train in it.

Reaction:

When ELady expresses her desire to learn horseback archery, Ganondorf would smile, a rare warmth in his expression. "It is a skill that requires precision and strength. I would be honored to teach you."

Thoughts and Feelings:

Pride: He would feel pride in her for wanting to learn and uphold Gerudo traditions.

Interest: He would take a keen interest in her progress, perhaps seeing it as a bonding activity.

Actions:

Mentorship: He would personally train her, sharing his knowledge and skills.

Encouragement: He would encourage her and others to pursue the art, reinforcing its importance in Gerudo culture.

Ganondorf (Twilight Princess)

Twilight Princess Ganondorf would view the revival of these traditions as a way to strengthen the Gerudo people and restore their former glory.

Reaction:

When informed about the lost traditions, Ganondorf would nod thoughtfully. "Our people were once feared and respected for their skills. It is time we reclaim that legacy."

Thoughts and Feelings:

Determination: He would feel a strong determination to restore these practices, seeing them as vital to the Gerudo identity.

Admiration: He would admire ELady for her initiative and dedication to their culture.

Actions:

Revival Efforts: He would spearhead efforts to find and breed the horses and reintroduce horseback archery.

Personal Involvement: He would likely take part in the training and practice, showing his commitment to the cause.

Ganondorf (Hyrule Warriors)

Given his warrior nature, Hyrule Warriors Ganondorf would be particularly enthusiastic about reintroducing horseback archery.

Reaction:

Learning about the lost traditions, Ganondorf’s eyes would gleam with interest. "Horseback archery... A skill that combines power and precision. This is what our warriors need."

Thoughts and Feelings:

Excitement: He would be excited about the potential to enhance the Gerudo's combat skills and cultural heritage.

Support: He would strongly support ELady’s efforts, seeing them as essential for their people.

Actions:

Training Programs: He would establish rigorous training programs and seek out the best horses.

Warrior’s Pride: He would take pride in leading by example, mastering the skills himself and encouraging others to do the same.

Demise

Demise, with his domineering nature, would see the reintroduction of these traditions as a way to consolidate power and instill fear and respect.

Reaction:

Upon hearing about the lost traditions, Demise would smirk. "The power of the ancient Gerudo... We shall reclaim it and make our enemies tremble."

Thoughts and Feelings:

Ambition: He would feel a strong ambition to restore these traditions, viewing them as a means to strengthen his dominance.

Respect: He would respect ELady for her discovery and her dedication to the cause.

Actions:

Aggressive Revival: He would aggressively pursue the revival of these traditions, seeking out the best horses and training methods.

Dominant Participation: He would participate actively, demonstrating his prowess and reinforcing his authority.

Summary

Overall, all iterations of Ganondorf and Demise would be supportive and enthusiastic about reintroducing the Gerudàn horses and the tradition of horseback archery. They would see these efforts as a way to strengthen their people, restore their cultural heritage, and enhance their own power and prestige. Their reactions would range from pride and respect to determination and excitement, reflecting their unique personalities and ambitions.