#but again! i didnt formally approach her!! i did try to talk to her face to face one time but she uh was too busy

[elvesofnoldor]

its funny how i was so eager in figuring out which profs i’d like to supervise my major research project back in September, but after the faculty actually presents to us first year MAs and MFAs about their own research interests and expertise in early October, I went radio silence for two whole weeks cause I was going through multiple crisis on developing my research project idea and I wasn’t sure about who to approach. Also i was an idiot and didn’t look at the dates earlier and only figure out I need to submit a list of preferences for supervisors and readers TODAY and I haven’t formally approached ANYONE  

[heyitsyn]

Milk Bread

Oikawa!Reader x Ushijima

a/n: bahahaha oikawa would literally disown yall though

anon request:  Hiii if your request is still open could you also do an Oikawa's lil sis!Reader x Ushijima please~ fufufufu

ushijima and i could go get our own farm and have our own cows and horses and uggghhh

this entire,,,,, fiasco was an actual accident

it all started when you were so hungry that you ended up eating tooru’s milk bread

you were part of the girls track team in seijoh and competitions were starting soon so the team has been making practice mandatory during lunch as well

this caused you to only be able to survive off of snacks rather than your normal bento so you were blazing hungry when you got home

and when you are hungry, you go on a rampage

your brother was staying later practice so he wasnt home when you arrived

the fridge door almost unhinged and out the window by how roughly and quickly you opened it

the only thing in there was bottles of water and vegetables and you were not hungry enough to eat freaking raw onions

then you searched all over the cabinets for anything edible until you stumbled upon a clearly hidden milk bread

you guessed that tooru hid it bc he knew either you or takeru would eat it but heh, he didnt hide it good enough 

finders keepers, right?

and as long as he doesnt find out it was you, itd be fine

you giddily opened the bag and ripped off a piece before smiling at how delicious it was 

but this was cut short

you were so caught up in your happiness with the food that you missed iwa and tooru coming home until you heard your brother scream

‘Y/N-CHAN!’

your eyes flew open and you froze, mid-bite 

his eyes were wide and his mouth was agape as he watched you scarf down the rest of the bag quickly before dashing upstairs

but tooru’s shout for iwa-chan made the buff guy snatch you from the hallway despite you kicking and screaming at him to let go of you

‘IWA-CHAN NO!!!!!’

you yelled but he just tightened his hold on you

‘i bought oikawa that bag, y/n’

you pouted then crossed your arms

‘you bought it for an oikawa, not a specific oikawa though’

so tooru ordered you to go to his favorite bakery, which was all the way out there like an hour away, and buy him a dozen bags of milk bread

‘TOORU YOURE GOING TO GET FAT!’

*offended oikawa*

‘I BURN ALL OF IT DURING PRACTICE ANYWAYS!’

‘hm, explains why you have no cake’

y/n stop thats so mean !!!!

but doorkawa though

so there you were, shoving all of the stock they have in the store into the big cart 

if someone were to walk by you right now, theyd stare at the cart then at you weirdly for being a milk bread addiction

and thats exactly what happened

ushijima went to the bakery bc tendou won a bet and demanded a milk bread from this specific bakery

so he was entering the building, a single milk bread in mind, when he saw you, literally shoving all the bags down with an arm into the cart

he paused, like 5 feet away from you, just watching as you continued to take all the bags they had in stock into the cart

but he just wanted one bag so he went up to your cart and wordlessly took a bag which you saw and caught his arm

‘um, excuse me, what are you doing?’

he gave you a stoic face

‘i walked 30 minutes for this bag of milk bread. im sure you can leave one for someone else’

you were about to retort when you saw who this guy was

ofc if your brother was oikawa tooru, youd know his hatred for the apparent ‘farmer idiot’ ushijima wakatoshi from shiratorizawa

the familiar eyes and the furrowed eyebrows

yep, this had to be him

‘you,,,, ushiwaka’

he nodded

‘yes. now if you’ll excuse me, ill be going’

but you again held him back

‘ushijima-san! take this-all of this! i dont need it anymore!’

you pushed the cart in his direction before bolting out the store in a hurry

now ushijima is known to predict almost anything that came his way

but never has he even THOUGHT that a girl would give him a cart filled with nearly 50 bags of milk bread

the store lady pushed the cart to the cashier and only did he finally snapped out of it when she told him the total

‘oh, um, you forgot this bag too’

what was he going to do with all of this bread?

you pedaled your bike home and when tooru saw you empty handed, he started shouting

but you just faked a pout

‘ushijima wakatoshi-san took it from me’

his ears turned red

and all he could see was red

i see RED! rED! ooOOhH rED!!!!

he got his phone out and dialed a number before shouting into it

‘YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE THIS, IWA-CHAN! USHIWAKA-!’

ngl, you didnt really think that he would completely forget about it but he fell for it

you planned to use tooru’s hatred for him and just a single utter of his name could completely brainwash him from the milk bread stealing situation

‘MAYBE HES GOING TO BUY ALL THE MILK BREAD IN THE WORLD UNTIL I GO TO THE DAMN SHIRATORIZAWA! WHAT IF HES DOING THAT?! IWA-CHAN-!’

the entire situation completely slipped your mind a few weeks later and you even forgot that you met ushijima and left him a cart of the treats

but that was quickly remembered

similar to your brother, there was one day per week where you have no track practice so you found yourself in their gym at wednesday, just waiting for iwa and tooru to finish practice

you were just busy doing your homework and trying to help kyoken with all of his missed work when kindaichi shrieked from the side

‘ushijima wakatoshi!’

JAPONN

at the mention of his name, everyone turned to him and followed his line of sight where indeed, the tall farmer boy stood at the door

oikawa tooru was so shocked to see him and his nerve to show up at HIS TURF that he didnt say anything

‘hello. is oikawa y/n here?’

then all hell broke lose

tooru was screaming at you in betrayal

iwa was shouting and hitting oikawa to stop and holding him back from lunging at you

the others were yelling at how you knew this famous player

while kyoken just sitting there all chill

‘you know that guy?’

‘uh-well-kinda?’

‘nice’

you quickly packed up your stuff, confused and surprised, before bolting down the bleachers to the door where you grabbed ushiwaka’s hand to drag him away from the gym where tooru couldnt find you

you finally stopped by an alleyway about a street away from school and turned to him with scrunched eyebrows

‘ushijima wakatoshi-san! what are you doing here?!’

you whisper-yelled 

but he just unzipped his gym bag and handed you a bag of milk bread

you were so caught off guard that you just held it on your hands and stared at it

ushijima noticed your expression and pointed at the food

‘i have a lot of it at home. i figured you wanted one’

you slowly looked up at him

‘ushijima-san,,,,, i,,, why-’

‘you seem to like milk bread seeing your cart full of it. i thought you still wanted one and i need to get rid of all of it anyways’

‘but,,,, you shouldnt have come all the way to seijoh! nii-chan-’

then you stopped

wait, hold on

how did he even know your name

‘how do you know my name, ushijima-san?’

he blinked

‘youre a known track runner in the prefecture in both the girls and boys. a friend of mine wanted to recruit you for the school team but you turned it down’

you paused and chuckled

‘ah of course. i actually wanted to go but nii-chan considered it a betrayal so i couldnt go’

‘but you should’ve come to-’

‘SHUT UP USHIJIMA! AND STAY THE HELL AWAY FROM MY SISTER!’

tooru’s figure was panting a little bit away from behind ushijima and he was pointing at him heatedly

you sighed and face-palmed but you flinched when ushijima placed an arm around your shoulders and held you close

‘she has talents that could take her to far places. i understand that she refused it but you might have greatly influenced that decision and never asked her opinion about it. im here to ask her to re-think this decision and join us instead’

‘YOURE NOT EVEN IN THE TRACK TEAM IN THE FIRST PLACE!’

tooru raged and ran forward before grabbing your arm roughly to pry you away from the dirty touch of ushiwaka

‘we’re leaving, ushijima. and you better not talk to my little sister again’

he hissed and dragged you away but you turned your head and raised a hand

‘later, ushijima-san!’

‘SHUT UP Y/N!’

after that, ushijima knew to approach you in secret

you saw him by the gates after practice and you hurriedly hid him away from sight bc the moment someone saw that familiar purple jacket, theyd know immediately

‘ushijima-san! what do you want now?’

you whispered and again, he reached into his bag to give you a bag of milk bread

‘i need to get rid of them. and i also want to hear your opinions about joining shiratorizawa next year’

you laughed, softly clutching the bag

‘in truth, the bread was for nii-chan. and regarding next year, i dont think im leaving seijoh, ushijima-san, so sorry’

he nodded

‘i understand. but i do hope you will think about it, oikawa-san’

you cringed at the formality coming from someone as important as him

‘please, call me y/n. it sounds really weird from you’

‘okay, y/n-san’

‘no, just y/n’

‘y/n’

‘good’

then these meetings turned to another, then twice more, then everyday

it was becoming a routine at this point

track practice ended at 6, about 30 minutes before the seijoh volley so you could easily slip away from tooru, and ushi’s ended around 5 so he was able to meet you at the alley by your school

tbh, you didnt understand how you were meeting as such a shady place and you didnt understand why he would take such a long trip just to give you milk bread and ask you about the school

however, that soon changed

soon, you just talked about school and life in general while munching on food

he would occassionally talk about this first year goshiki and some setter shirabu and how they fought constantly

you knew a little bit of his best friend tendou and his dorm life back in shiratorizawa

he knew that you weren’t exactly in track for fun, but for scholarships since you werent exactly smart

part of you wondered if he used the dozens of milk bread in his house as an excuse to see you and make you eat them as compensation when he couldve just sent them back

yet eventually,

your conversations helped you know a little bit of each other without the title of fastest runner oikawa y/n or u-19 japan ushijima wakatoshi

‘tori accidentally broke a hurdle and sprained her knee so she had to sit out during practice. it was a mess because she was screaming about the pain and caused practice to end early’

you whined while chewing

he remained quiet so you turned to look at him, who was just staring at you

‘ushijima-san? you okay?’

‘waka,, toshi. call me wakatoshi’

you tilted your head to the side

‘i,, i can’t call you that, ushijima-san’

‘please, call me that. we’re friends, right?’

a genuine laugh escaped from you

‘oh dear. i mean, yeah, we’re friends, i guess. but nii-chan would not appreciate this friendship’

‘but doesn’t he like you having friends?’

he was confused as to why tooru’s even in the conversation

‘no, ushijima-san. i meant, he would not like me being friends with you’

‘why does he have a say in this?’

you paused

he was right

why did tooru’s opinion matter?

why did it matter so much that you’ve been hiding in this stinky alleyway with ushijima wakatoshi for a few weeks all because you were scared someone you knew saw you?

‘wakatoshi-san, do you have a brother?’

‘no’

‘hm, makes sense’

you laughed then looked away, straight at the dumpster that stood behind him a few feet away

‘my parents,,, are always working. even when i was young, they were constantly working so i dont really have good memories with them since they were rarely home. my sister, she was already in high school when i was born so the only person i really had was my nii-chan’

ushijima’s stare on you never wavered as he remained looking at you, inspecting you almost, the way your nose curved or your lips looked a little chapped or that crumb that stuck itself on the corner of your lip

‘he has always done everything for me,, in a way, he raised me and i appreciate everything hes done for me, yknow? and i want to repay him for all of that but im sorry to say this, but he doesnt exactly like you, wakatoshi-san. and me being friends with you, him not even knowing we’re meeting up like this, he would get very angry with me. and i dont to disappoint him’

you looked down at the remaining bread and softly sighed

it annoyed you a little that you cared so much for what tooru thought

why couldnt you live your life?

why couldn’t you just be your own person and meet people that you like?

‘we have only have 3 bags of milk bread left’

ushijima’s comment took you aback bc its not like you just told him something so personal or anything

‘huh?’

‘i need to buy some more’

you shook your head and waved your hands around

‘wakatoshi-san, i just told you, like, something really personal-’

‘but i dont care about all that though’

he blinked, confused as to why it mattered to him

‘what-’

‘y/n, havent you noticed that you’ve been calling me by my first name?’

his question made you stop and realize that you were saying wakatoshi

‘oikawa tooru is simply a person who helped raise you, he didnt make you nor does he have control over you. your life was given to you to live and create, not to be molded or shaped by someone else’

you nodded and patted his arm in appreciation, still awkward about having interactions with the guy

but he reached behind you and patted your back, averting his gaze forward

‘you have talent in track so i think you should keep running for a team that shares your skills. like your brother’s talents deserve to be played in a team full of undefeatable players’

you chuckled and shot him a confused glance

‘wakatoshi-san, youre over here telling me to do what i want yet youre telling me to do something else’

he seemed completely innocent to his hypocritical statement as he just looked at you

‘im just influencing you. theres a difference’

you shook your head and continued eating your bread, throwing the entire topic behind your mind

‘youre right, wakatoshi-san. we do need to buy some more milk bread’

little by little, you started to stray away from your brother

like you started coming home late and your wednesdays were now booked up with someone else

ofc he noticed and he went straight to iwa-chan to complain about it

by the second wednesday, he got fed up and actually cancelled practice which caused iwa to beat him up for stopping practice for something stupid

‘let your sister be, shittykawa!’

tooru pouted and rubbed the now sore spot on his head

‘somethings wrong, iwa-chan! i can sense it! shes hiding something and if its kept from me, of course i want to know!’

this led iwa to be dragged along with him as he followed you walking to somewhere

he remembered you getting flustered and smiling at him when you refused his offer to get ramen after practice with the guys

‘i have plans, sorry, nii-chan’

this caused oikawa to be very sus bc no tea, but he knows you dont hang out w other people outside school

so this led him to stalking you instead of talking and asking you like a normal adult

iwa was also there bc he lowkey sus and worried for your safety if oikawa does decide to lunge at your boyfriend

the two boys were huddled behind a car as you were just walking cheerfully, skipping every step

‘iwa-chan, she doesnt have a boyfriend, right?’

‘shes pretty and kind, it would be hard to believe she doesnt have one’

but as they continued to follow you, they started getting confused as to why you were walking in such an unfamiliar neighborhood

this wasnt exactly their turf and when they noticed a familiar looking uniform a boy was wearing as he walked down the street, oikawa almost busted a blood vessel

aw look at him tremble-

‘what in the ever-loving god of anime is she doing in shiratorizawa!’

he whisper-yelled

‘iwa-chan! is she transferring there?!’

‘shittykawa shut the hell up!’

you heard a familiar voice behind you and quickly turned around but saw nothing

you swear you heard hajime’s voice

but it couldve been just your imagination since you’ve heard him call that for nearly 6 years

you continued walking forward and you jumped to wave when you saw ushijima leaning against the school gates

‘wakatoshi-san!’

you greeted and he nodded, acknowledging your presence

‘y/n, you were late’

you giggled

‘why? did you miss me wakatoshi-san?’

‘hm, yes. the milk bread bakery is going to close in 15 minutes’

he said and held out his hand which you gladly accepted

tooru was basically strangling iwa by how he was so ANGY that his little baby sister was fraternizing with the enemy!!!

back on you though!!!

you still blushed when you held his hand but you knew there was nothing about it bc you ltr almost got ran over once

so basically,

you were finally opening up to going out in public w him as long as it was far away

and he suggested going to some ramen shop that they frequent at for some food

you were just walking side by side and humming a tune when you were interrupted by a loud honk that freaked you out and freeze

but ushijima, being a volleyball player and developing quick instincts, grabbed your shoulders and pushed you both to the side, away from the car

youve never had that experience before so you were quite freaked out and you were just hanging on to his jacket for dear life, hiding your face in it

he sensed your panic and placed a hand on top of your head to provide some comfort

‘its okay, y/n. dont worry bc ill always be there to protect you’

you turned red at that statement but ushijima was known to be very naive and he didnt understand that underlying suggestion in his words

‘thank you, wakatoshi-san’

you mumbled and he gently pried you away but he held your hand

‘this will allow me to pull you quicker and to make sure you dont wander too far’

you pouted

‘hmph, im not a child, wakatoshi-san’

he smiled, surprising you bc wowza was he showing emotions?

‘you need to be taken cared of, do you not? no matter what age, ill still look out for you’

to this day, he still kept your hand on his grip and your heart kept beating really fast

all these hangouts were really showing you the real ushijima wakatoshi that was so different from the court and you really liked it

from the strong and cold and cruel player to the awkward, funny, and naive schoolboy

he was an enigma and you were attracted to the remaining iceberg that maintained being hidden under the waters of his physical appearance

focusing on something else, you were tugging him along excitedly bc you forgot your bento at home today and you STARVED

‘lets get sweets!’

you cheered excitedly and with his hand still laced into yours, he looped it around your shoulders so he pulled you closer

‘semi told me he does this to his girlfriend when she gets too hyper’

um, sire, where did that come from?

from oikawa’s spot, he was starting to get hurt by how harshly he dug his fingernails in his palms while iwa was getting angry at how carelessly this farmer was handling his sister

but you werent bothered by his weird oblivious comments

‘im very hungry so we must hurry, wakatoshi-san!’

‘yes, yes’

unbeknownst to you, he kept looking down to observe your faces

when you would see a store, your eyes would widen and youd mumble about wanting to go there sometimes

when you saw a baby in a stroller, youd coo and unintentionally squeeze his hand

it was cute

and it made his heart jump every time

today was no different occasion

and he was finally able to put a pin into this weird action from his organ

lmao im so tired bruh im cackling as i type

earlier today during practice, he felt that jump when you whined to him about leaving your bento at home and expressing your excitement to get some food

that jump returned and he was so focused on texting you that he didnt notice his teammates watching him in shock

tendou even started hitting semi, confused and flabbergasted

‘ushijima-san,,,’

goshiki started but shirabu smacked him to be quiet

‘oh, i might not come to practice on friday since im going to the doctor’

the mention of the doctor, everyone freaked out bc they cant have their prized player injured or hurt

‘what,, whats wrong?’

semi asked and ushijima finally locked up his phone

‘im having weird random jumps in my chest and slight tickles in my stomach. google told me to go to the doctor if it persists so i made an appointment’

they all sweatdropped

goshiki uwu babie was biting his lip to stop himself from sobbing and thinking his senpai and rival was having an illness

but semi and tendou knew whats up

‘wakatoshi-kun, who were you texting?’

they all noticed the slight widening of his eyes and the sprinkle of light that shined through

‘oh, oikawa y/n. we’re friends now’

everyone shared a look bc he didnt really have friends outside the team and didnt bother himself with unnecessary relationships like these

‘oh god’

tendou mumbled and his grin widened

‘i,,im no doctor, ushijima-san, but i think youre experiencing the symptoms of a crush’

shirabu was basically the smartest than the others combined so when he said something like that, they believed him immediately

‘crush?’

ushijima wondered

‘dont tell me you dont know what that is’

goshiki muttered in disbelief

‘im familiar with the definition of the attraction to another person. but ive never experienced it myself’

yall why am i writing him to talk like this

‘youve been so busy with volleyball your entire life that you probably havent had time to actually admire the girls we have in school’

tendou reasoned so ushijima went to go wait for you by the gates and observed the females that passed by

nope, they all didnt strike him for anything

he just gave up until he saw you waving for him all enthusiastically and there it was

a simple glance at your smile and it leapt

it only got worse when you giggled and he clenched his fist to keep his heart from leaping out of his chest

the entire time, he felt it, especially holding your hand

to really be honest, he only did that after what happened and his mother used to do that to him to protect him from other cars

now that he had someone to protect, he was doing the same thing

you clearly didnt mind and just swung your hands along the entire time

eventually, yall arrived 

the lady at the front was now accustomed by your appearances and she waved at you

‘hello ushijima-kun! oikawa-chan!’

you greeted her happily while ushi just nodded at her

your brother and his best friend decided it was best to stand outside to not garner suspicion ltr yall are stalking and everyone knows since the bell rang whenever it was opened

tooru felt his heart clench at the thought of you being on a date with this,,, !!!! farmer boy!!!!

the sister complex in this one is quite strong

it got even worse when he saw your giggling form and ushijima holding you close with your shoulders

next thing he knew, he entered the bakery and ripped you away from him

ofc you were surprised bc wtf why was here?

‘NII-CHAN?!’

‘oh, hello, oikawa’

^^ 2 types of people

‘didnt you hear me when i told you to stay away from my sister?’

he seethed

‘yes, i heard you. but i dont care’

‘wakatoshi-san!’

you whisper-yelled bc his answer clearly made your brother angrier

‘well, i need you to start caring bc you are not welcome to be a part of our family! i will never accept you as my brother-in-law! i will never visit! you hear me?!’

your eyebrows furrowed and you flushed in embarrassment

‘NII-CHAN! WE’RE JUST FRIENDS! WHAT ARE YOU SPOUTING ABOUT?! AND WHY DID YOU FOLLOW ME?!’

he didnt bother to hear you and started dragging you by the arm

but you wrenched out of his grip and ran to ushijima, who held you close

‘hes my friend, nii-chan. i dont care if you dont like him but hes nice to me and he hasnt given me any reason to not be friends. now try to be a grown-up for just a few minutes and leave me alone so i can go hang out with my friend and you go back home with iwa-chan’

you firmly stated, glaring at him and tooru felt sad at this entire thing

were you growing up?

despite only being a year younger, you were always that ran to him for everything bc you looked up to him so much

but now, you were refusing and becoming your own person

you were still his baby sister but now, you were a grown woman who could make her own choices

and he had no choice but to accept that

‘okay. but come back home soon, okay, y/n?’

tooru’s quiet voice made your expression fall and you made a move to go to him but he already made his exit

‘nii-chan,,,’

you mumbled but ushijima placed an arm around your shoulders

‘you can go to him, y/n. we can-’

‘no. im,,, happy that he finally realized it. so lets continue’

you smiled up at him and he nodded, going back to looking through the cupcakes

‘how do you think hed take it if he finds out i like his sister?’

he off-handedly asks to no one but you heard and jumped

okay, you were used to his random comments and questions but this one had to be the one that took you aback the most

‘H-HAH?!’

but he doesnt seem bothered

‘my teammates told me that i have a crush on you so if i were to act on that feeling, would you accept me?’

your eyes flittered everywhere and you grabbed him by the shoulders and leaned him down to his level

‘ar-are you seriously confessing to me right now?’

he shrugged, so nonchalant

‘yes. before getting your brother’s approval, i should get yours first. will you let me be yours, oikawa y/n-san?’

your face scrunched up and you nodded, pulling him in for a hug

‘i like you a lot, ushijima-san. like a lot’

he softly smiled and buried his neck in your neck

‘i noticed when you didnt care about your brother’s dislike towards me’

‘yanno, for someone who is so against us together, hes the reason we even met in the first place’

he pulled away and looked at you

‘really?’

‘yep. i told you this, didnt i? i came for milk bread yet left with a boyfriend’

‘over a span of a few months’

you rolled your eyes but still laughed

‘yes, a few months and nearly a hundred bags of milk bread later’

the old lady was watching the whole thing and only made her presence obvious when she squealed

‘OH YOUNG LOVE! GET ANYTHING YOU WANT TODAY, DEARIES! WE SHALL CELEBRATE THE BEGINNING OF NEW LOVE AND FOR MANY MORE!’

you and ushijima shared a look before busting out laughing, you freezing when you heard his chuckles

he noticed your stare at him and he asked you whats wrong

you shook your head before grinning

‘im already already looking forward to falling in love with you. so make me fall really hard, okay?’

you just unlocked blushy and flustered ushijima wakatoshi

when you went home that night with bags full of milk bread, your brother practically forgave you

but you accidentally blurted out of your new official relationship and you knew what he did?

oikawa screamed

a/n: sorry if i was gone for 2 days bc selling sunset came season 3 came out on friday !!!! but heres an update and i might post another later bc tomorrow’s my first day of school and id be too busy to update but id probably update in wednesday so feast on these in the meantime!!!!!!

[btxtreads]

📼  d r a m a  📼

CHAPTER FIFTEEN: CAN I HAVE THIS DANCE?

↳ Pairing: Choi Soobin x Reader

↳ word count: 2.7k words

↳ rating: PG

↳ genre: fluff, yeonjun and beomgyu are headaches for taehyun and hueningkai nothing new, y/n is a nervous wreck and soobin is a big flirt

a/n: DID YOU EXPECT A WRITTEN CHAPTER? DID YOU? D I D Y O U?

“Are we there yet? Are we there yet?”

Beomgyu’s cheerful voice sounded out through the limo as he tapped Taehyun’s arm incessantly.

“You asked that five minutes ago,” Taehyun deadpanned. “No. We’re not there yet,”

“But we’re late!”

As Beomgyu whined, Y/N checked her phone subtly.

new message from prince soobinie: i’ll see you later babe

Taehyun’s phone rang with a message, which Beomgyu promptly read out—much to Taehyun’s displeasure.

“Choi Soobin, Choi Yeonjun and Hueningkai on Sir Beomgyu’s important guest lists have arrived,” Beomgyu read out before smiling happily. “Soobinie-hyung!”

“I regret putting so much people in that list,” Taehyun groaned. “My phone has been ringing since the gala started. I don’t need to know when people arrive,”

“Choi Soobin’s there?” Y/N gulped, which made Beomgyu turn to her with an amused, mischievous expression.

“Yes?” Beomgyu grinned. “Hyung’s there.”

“How many times do I have to tell you that we’re not close with Soobin?” Taehyun chastised.

“But we could be!” Beomgyu argued.

Y/N ignored the bickering two and looked back at her text.

She didn’t really care about Soobin, the superstar.

She just wanted to see her Soobin.

Whoever it was.

“We’re here,”

Taehyun’s red hair shone brightly in front of the cameras.

Despite being Beomgyu’s secretary, everybody knew him best as Beomgyu’s best friend, which in extension, makes him one of the most eligible bachelors of the business world after Choi Beomgyu.

Choi Beomgyu, president and heir of Choi Industries, was ever the star.

His smile was blinding as he stood next to Taehyun in the red carpet, the way he carried himself further solidifying his status as the most sought-after bachelor of the business world—even if he really goofed off too much.

On the other side of Beomgyu was Y/N, ever pretty and very much alluring.

Completing the trio, Y/N’s presence outsold every single girl in the gala.

Her connection to Beomgyu was one of the reasons why she was a very famous girl when it comes to men and women in the business world looking for connections, yet her eyes danced around the area looking for someone specific.

If only she knew who to find.

“Y/N, who are you wearing today?”

“Beomgyu, over here!”

“Taehyun, give us a smile!”

Beomgyu gave them one final smile before slinging an arm around Y/N and tugging Taehyun’s blazer.

“Let’s go,”

The three walked off of the red carpet and out of the public eye, which made Beomgyu give a big breath before stretching.

In front of their eyes, the cool, attractive president of Choi Industries transformed into a whining baby.

“Facing paparazzi is so tiring, guys,” he pouted. “I deserve a nap,”

Taehyun rolled his eyes and dragged Beomgyu inside the venue, grumbling under his breath as Beomgyu whined again.

Chuckling, Y/N followed both boys in.

It was no secret she was a little bit nervous.

Even if she told both Beomgyu and Taehyun she dressed up because she knew being in the gala meant being in the eyes of the paparazzi, all three of them knew it was for the person behind the Choi Soobin account she’d been talking to.

The same Soobin who hadn’t sent any words her way after his earlier “see you later,” text.

As soon as they entered, Beomgyu gasped loudly and pointed over at a head of bright neon yellow hair by the dessert table.

“It’s Choi Yeonjun,” he gasped.

The said boy stood by the buffet table, bouncing with a macaroon in hand and his phone recording in another.

“Yeah,” Taehyun answered, nonchalantly gesturing over at the tall boy next to Yeonjun. “and that’s Hueningkai,”

Beside him stood Hueningkai, who was also bouncing in his spot as he tugged on Yeonjun’s arm and pointed at a gigantic Mollang balloon with another.

Choi Soobin was nowhere to be found.

Taehyun and Beomgyu exchanged a look and faced Y/N with teasing grins.

Y/N cleared her throat and shook her head.

“I’m not looking for Soobin,” She squeaked in a small voice.

“Oh,” Beomgyu smirked, giggling mischievously. “but we didn’t say anything about him,”

Y/N scrunched her face and opened her mouth to argue at the boy who cackled loudly, but was interrupted by Taehyun.

“What the hell do you want?”

“Touchy,” a new voice chuckled, which made Beomgyu snap his head up and Y/N turn hers.

Behind Y/N stood Jaemin, his arm around a pretty girl in a bright red dress.

The girl he cheated on Y/N on.

“Oh, Jaemin, hello,” Y/N said, her eyes wide. “I didn’t know you’d be here. Nope, definitely not,”

“You three didn’t check the guest list this time?” Jaemin asked.

Beomgyu glared at the boy, pulling Y/N to stand beside him.

“We did, we just didnt care to look for you,” he answered curtly.

“That’s so cute. Beomgyu’s business tone, I mean,” Jaemin laughed.

“Hi, Beomgyu,” Jaemin’s girlfriend said. “I’m Soo-Min. It’s so nice to finally meet you,”

“It’s Mr. Choi,” Taehyun answered. “This is the president of Choi Industries, he’s not your friend,”

Y/N smiled at her friends’ overprotectiveness, if Beomgyu’s tight grip on the back of her dress was anything to go by.

She reached her hand up to pat Beomgyu’s shoulder. “At ease, soldier,”

Beomgyu only rolled his eyes and huffed.

“Hi, nice to see you again,” Y/N nodded over at the girl and raised her eyebrows at Jaemin. “And you,”

“Hey,” Jaemin nodded with a smirk. “Soo-Min got an invite here. You know how she’s really famous. She got here all by herself, without any connections you know? She’s on a brand deal.”

“What are you trying to say, hyung?” Beomgyu asked, irritated. “I’ve got more important people to talk to, hurry it up,”

Jaemin raised his eyebrows.

“Oh, come on Gyuu. I’m Jaeminie-hyungie, remember? You don’t have to be so formal with me,”

Beomgyu’s fist curled up into a ball.

“Y/N, Beom, let’s go,” Taehyun said. “I see Mr. Kim,”

“Ah, business-like as always, Tae,” Jaemin said, patting his shoulder. “Lighten up,”

Taehyun glared at the boy and pushed his hand off his shoulder.

“Why the hostility, boys?” Jaemin asked, wrapping his arm around Soo-Min’s waist. “Is it because I broke up with Y/N?”

“The break-up isn’t the problem, it’s the reason why,” Beomgyu said through clenched teeth, his eyes wandering over to Soo-Min.

The girl only smiled.

“It’s no biggie, guys,” Jaemin shrugged. “I just don’t love Y/N anymore,”

Y/N stayed silent and bit her lip, vaguely aware of the rising tempers of the two boys beside her.

Jaemin shrugged and back-hugged Soo-Min right in front of them.

“I mean look at Soo-Min, she’s so hot and proper and pretty,” Jaemin shrugged. “But I mean, I get it. Sorry Y/N, I hope you move on soon,”

“What?” Y/N asked.

“I mean I know you’re still not over me,” Jaemin said. “But I’ve moved on, and so should you,”

Beomgyu straightened up, his glare sharpening as he spoke.

“I’m sorry, Jaemin-hyung, but I—“

“Finally found you,” A voice said, tone lilting as two arms wrapped itself around Y/N’s waist and a towering figure pressed itself against her back. “Hi, babe,”

Beomgyu and Taehyun only gaped with wide eyes as the familiar voice reached Y/N’s ears.

A voice she only heard from the television whenever Beomgyu insisted she watch Once Upon A Lovestory re-runs with him.

Y/N’s hands landed on the arms around her waist, and she turned to see Choi Soobin smiling at her with his hair falling over his face.

“You’re late,” he hummed tightening his grip on her. “Now, about those kisses you wanted saying yesterday, let me—“

“I—uh, Beomgyu! Beomgyu,” Y/N sputtered. “Beomgyu wanted to buy donuts on the way—uh, donuts.”

“Oh my god,” Beomgyu muttered under his breath, making Soobin snap back into attention.

Soobin gave both Beomgyu and Taehyun a quick smile before his gaze landed on Jaemin, his smile widening.

“Oh, hello,”

“Oh my gosh, hi,” Soo-Min gasped from beside a dumbfounded Jaemin. “I’m Soo-Min. I’m such a big fan of yours,”

Soobin only hummed, shooting her a wide smile.

Beomgyu moved to stand next to Taehyun.

Y/N shot the both of them a look of panic.

Beomgyu looked star-struck as he gazed at Soobin with starry eyes, while Taehyun only scratched his head and shrugged.

“Okay,” Y/N squeaked to herself silently, making Soobin laugh.

“You must be Jaemin, Y/N told me about you,” Soobin nodded over at Jaemin as he manoeuvred himself to stand next to Y/N, an arm around her waist to mirror Jaemin and Soo-Min.

“All good things, I hope,” Jaemin muttered to which Soobin smirked at.

“That’s pretty hard considering why you’re dating that pretty woman now, isn’t it?” Soobin asked, gesturing over to Soo-Min and giving her a smile.

He turned over to Y/N and tucked her hair behind her ear. “By the way, you look so beautiful, babe.”

“What?” Y/N blushed, making him laugh once more.

“I’m serious, I’m not lying.” Soobin smiled.

He planted a soft hiss to Y/N’s cheek, making Taehyun and Beomgyu exchange a look of surprise while Y/N just laughed nervously.

“Oh, yeah. Beautiful, thanks,” Y/N said.

“I, uh, didn’t know you were dating Choi Soobin now,” Jaemin said to Y/N, his eyes locked on the arm around her waist.

“Uh,” Y/N made a move to deny but Soobin’s hand tightened its grip on her waist.

Beomgyu and Taehyun were watching the scene intently just like you would a movie, and she could see Hueningkai and Yeonjun approach them from her position next to Soobin.

“Yes, I am,” Y/N replied, making Soobin’s shoulders relax and his eyes turn cheery.

He grinned at Jaemin. “Yes, she is,”

Yeonjun and Hueningkai stopped a few feet away from them, arguing by themselves.

“Babe, Kai and Yeonjun-hyung wanted to meet the three of you,” Soobin gestured over to the bickering duo.

“Me and Beomgyu, too?” Taehyun asked, making Soobin smile at them.

“Of course!” Soobin laughed, bowing his head over at Jaemin. “If you excuse us,”

He led Y/N away with a chuckle as Beomgyu and Taehyun followed the two bickering amongst themselves.

“I told you I’d find you yesterday, didn’t I?” Soobin teased as they reached a still-bickering Kai and Yeonjun. “Now, call me baby boy,”

Beomgyu sat beside Y/N and Soobin, cackling as he saw people slow-dancing on the dance floor.

“I can’t believe you just made your gala a high-school dance,” Taehyun gaped from his seat next to Beomgyu.

It was minutes after Yeonjun and Hueningkai met the three with Soobin before Beomgyu was called to deliver his speech for the gala, promptly ending it with an unplanned call for everybody to enjoy the night by dancing.

“I can’t believe you,” Taehyun continued muttering to himself, as Beomgyu laughed.

“The only way to avoid interaction is if you get them busy by forcing them to interact with another person,” Beomgyu hummed. “Okay, so Taehyun my plan tonight is on Kim Taehyung, did you see him anywhere?”

“That’s your current client, Beomgyu!” Taehuyn chastised.

Yeonjun gaped at the president as Hueningkai only downed his glass of grape juice with a roll of his eyes.

“Dude, I love you,” Yeonjun gasped from his chair.

“Everybody does,” Beomgyu sang, making Taehyun slam his hand on the back of his head. “Taehyunie, that hurt!”

“Do I look like I care?” Taehyun hissed, making the boy pout.

“I think I’m gonna go take more pictures with Mollang,” Hueningkai declared from his spot, standing.

“That’s beside the dessert table right?” Yeonjun asked, standing up too. “I think I’m gonna go ahead with my mukbang,”

“Hyung, you’re an embarrassment,” Hueningkai deadpanned, which made Beomgyu gasp.

“Taehyun says that to me a lot too!” Beomgyu gaped, raising his hand to high-five Yeonjun.

“That’s because you are,” Taehyun replied, shrugging.

“I think I should bring you to the kitchen instead,” Beomgyu whispered loudly to Yeonjun, making the boy widen his eyes. “Taehyun, we can make them make you cheese tteokbokki,”

“If you think that’ll make me go with you all—“ Taehyun started before Y/N shrugged.

“You’re absolutely right,” Y/N supplied as Taehyun nodded.

“Let’s go,” Taehyun said, making Hueningkai groan.

“I have to go with you guys now?” Hueningkai whined as Yeonjun dragged him behind them, marching their way to the gala’s kitchens.

Soobin and Y/N was left alone.

The soft piano from the song playing over the speakers was the only noise left from the once rowdy table.

Take my hands now,

Y/N took her champagne and downed it., making Soobin turn to her.

“So, I—uh—think I should go with them. You know, to make sure Beomgyu doesn’t make that much of a mess,” Y/N said, standing up.

Soobin reached out and grasped her hand. “I’m sorry,”

You are the cause of my euphoria.

Y/N turned to him, slowly sitting back down. “What for?”

“I think I made you a bit uncomfortable for approaching you in front of Jaemin,” Soobin said smiling sadly. “And, uh, making him think I’m dating you,”

“Honestly, no,” Y/N shook her head. “That actually saved my ass.”

“Oh,”

Close the door now,

“I’m just nervous,” Y/N said, playing with her fingers. “In front of you, I mean,”

“Oh,” Soobin repeated, his tone bright and his smile back in his eyes.

When I’m with you,

I’m in Utopia.

They were both silent, fiddling with their fingers and taking stolen glances with each other at the last note of the song faded away.

“That was a, um, pretty song,” Y/N spoke up, wincing. That was such a weird thing to say, Y/N. What were you thinking?

As Y/N internally scolded herself, the song over the speakers changed.

“Hey,” Soobin started with a smile as he heard the first beat of the next song.

He stood and offered his hand.

Take my hand,

Take a breath,

“Wanna dance?”

Pull me close,

then take one step.

“Huh?”

Keep your eyes locked on mine,

“I said, do you wanna dance?” Soobin smiled.

And let the music be your guide.

Y/N smiled softly and put her hand in his as he pulled her over to the dance floor and wrapped an arm around her waist.

Won’t you promise me

that you’ll never forget

Y/N’s hesitation led Soobin to take her hand and put it on her shoulder.

“Just,” Soobin started. “Follow me,”

Soobin slowly swayed around.

To keep dancing wherever we go next.

“Hi,” Soobin said, making Y/N chuckle.

“Hi,” Y/N hummed back.

“So, am I the Soobin you expected?” Soobin asked, tilting his head.

It’s like catching lightning,

the chances of finding someone like you.

“Not exactly,” Y/N replied, her eyes falling on the kitchen door as it opened to reveal Beomgyu and Yeonjun with desserts piled in their arms and Hueningkai and Taehyun holding tubs of tteokbokki and litre bottles of grape juice. “I, uh, didn’t expect superstar Soobin,”

“I told you I was the actor Soobin, though,”

“I never believed you,” Y/N replied, looking back at Soobin, who had a thinking face on.

“I guess I should’ve made sure you knew,” Soobin shrugged, making Y/N laugh. “Can’t take it back now,”

“It’s fine,” Y/N replied.

It’s one in a million,

the chances of feeling the way we do.

“Sorry again,” Soobin said. “For making Jaemin think I’m dating you,”

“It’s fine, he thinks I’m dating the Choi Soobin now,” Y/N said. “I levelled up in his eyes—I’m the shit.”

Soobin laughed. “I’m not that great.”

“Oh,” Y/N shook her head. “But you are,”

And with every step together,

Soobin’s hand tightened its grip on hers.

Y/N looked up in thought.

“I guess you’re like my knight in shining armor in front of Jaemin,” Y/N joked.

We just keep on getting better.

“Can I be your knight in shining armor everyday, then?” Soobin smiled, making the girl in his arms laugh and leave her head on his chest.

“You’re so corny,”

Soobin chuckled and rested his chin on the top of her head.

“So, can I?”

So, can I have this dance?

“Okay,”

Can I have this dance?

a/n: i don’t have chapter 16 made whoops

[gethappy80]

ELVIS COSTELLO FAN FIC PART 1

  Penny stopped short on the concrete as her eyes scanned the busy London road, they lit up as she saw a cab approaching. She waved frantically grabbing the handle to force the driver to stop.

"I'm sorry, I'm really late!" Penny begged before giving the driver the address and didn't even notice the wide eyed man on the other side until he spoke up.

"You're going to the capitol office too?"

"Uh yeah... I'm sorry, It's just my first day there and I'd hate to be late and I need the job and-"

"It's ok, don't worry, I'm sure they wouldn't get rid of you just because you're late" he held his hand up and chuckled at her forwardness.

"Where are you from?" He stared at her intensely, studying her almost.

"New York" penny smirked and fixed her sleeve.

"Oh alright, so you're new here"

"Yes... like 3 weeks ago" he nodded and ran out of questions.

The rest of the cab ride was silent, but it was only 3 minutes. When they both got out she ran to the door and he held it for her then both awkwardly waved at each other as they separated.

*2 months later*

Penny sliced open the third box of the day to reveal posters of a geek armed with a jazzmaster guitar, which was the usual for her since starting at Colombia records. she recognized the geek known as Elvis Costello, who was on the record label. She picked up the phone and called his manager to request the representative of the band to come in and approve the box of merchandise.

He agreed,

she hung up and swung the box to the side.

Soon enough a short man in glasses, a suit and Cuban heels turned up and spat the words

"what do you want?"

they hit her in the back of her throat like nails and rendered her speechless. If they were in a less formal setting, she would have no problem laying hands on the man because of his attitude, but alas she just closed her gaping mouth and waited.

"are you just going to stare at me?" his words still sharp.

"I'm waiting for you to drop your attitude" penny stabbed back and crossed arms. She was already skeptical of him and hoped they wouldnt have to work together much.

He gulped and darted his eyes around her because someone as new as Penny was already calling him out. Usually people let his attitude knock the wind out of them and even got excited about his rudeness... one perk of being a slimy rockstar... or so they said. He was still new to the title and preferred songwriter when he wasnt talking down to people.

"I'm sorry... what did you call me in for?" he said in a much softer voice and the apples of his cheeks turned a red tint... or maybe penny just wanted them to.

"thank you... you have to approve these posters" she swung the box up on the desk again and pulled the flaps with fraying ends back. She noticed how he winced at the sight of himself and chuckled.

"maybe not all rock stars are vain" she thought to herself. 

"yeah they look alright... is that it?" he raised his eyebrow.

"sign here" she handed him a pen and paper.

Before she knew it, he was out the door again. She thought he was strange, but thats what she expected from a guy called Elvis, so she shrugged it off.

she almost didn't realize he was the one In the cab with her when she first started working here only 2 months ago.

. . .

"you'll never guess who marched into the office this week," penny smiled before taking a big gulp of her drink.

she found herself in a local bar with some a new friend nick, who also gave her the job at the label he was signed to, Colombia records.

"oh yeah, who?" he did the same and took the last of his drink.

They would often find themselves in this pub on Friday nights just talking about their work week since they knew little else about each other. They were always trying to one up each other with how bad or how good their week was.

"some angry wimp Elvis Costello" penny rolled her eyes and nick stayed quiet.

That angry wimp was nicks friend, and nick was his producer. He knew Elvis wasnt a mean guy and the angry young man as they named him was only mean to press and the public. Why he was rude to Penny, Nick didnt know.

"the one in the enormous glasses?"

"yup, thats him... you know him?" pennys eyes narrowed. She was only teasing and nick knew that so he just nodded in response.

"yuck" she made a sour face, and he burst out laughing.

. . .

nick woke up the next morning knowing the perfect way to cause mischief on Monday.

"you want me to what?"

"hold on to it, someone will be by to pick it up" Nick explained to Penny again as he handed the note to her. She rolled her eyes and agreed to do what he asked.

Nick rushed out with a thank you and left Penny to wonder what was going on. He was acting different but to be fair penny didnt know him all that well so she just put the note to the side.

That afternoon Elvis walked in to pick up the note that nick had left him, although he has never left a note for him before.

Penny looked up at the man in glasses once again and rolled her eyes.

"hello again" Elvis tried for an awkward smile and Penny returned it.

"I'm here to pick up a note my mate left me," his eyes darted around the area.

"your mate?" Penny tilted her head and her voice sounded harsh.

"yeah. my friend. He left a note, didnt he?" Elvis raised an eyebrow, Penny could also see that he had a gap in between his front teeth because of the way he bit his lip.

"Nick, hes your friend? Like you two are good friends?" Penny interrogated the now almost frightened man on the other side of the desk.

Elvis honestly didnt like how this was going and it seemed so far he could do nothing right with penny.

"Yes, Im good friends with Nick Lowe" he looked down at Penny who in a matter of seconds of an eye roll and an exhale went from argumentative to defeated.

"Alright well heres the note" she shoved her arm out to him and he took the note gently

"Thank you Penny" he took a half step back and flashed a proper smile now. All she could do is a half a smile. Elvis considered asking her what she had against Nick but with how the last two conversations went with her, he decided against it.

That Wednesday the same thing happened, and it left both Penny and Elvis suspicious.

"What did he say to you when he gave you the note?" Elvis shifted his weight to the other leg with a click of his heel and bit the inside of his cheek.

"Nothing just to hold on to it and that someone would come and pick it up and before I could question him he left," Penny sat back in her chair and threw her arms up.

"Yeah well, the notes arent saying anything important so you could just throw them out when he gives them to you," Elvis shrugged his shoulders.

"Sorry for all this" he added and his voice was much quieter

"Dont be, its ok" Penny smirked at how quiet the angry young man could be.

there was a silence between them, a potential conversation that lingered maybe.

"Ok, well I'll get going" He picked up the paper and left with a slight wave.

Penny didnt know why but she wanted to know more about Elvis and if maybe since he is Nick's friend she could be friends with him too.

[just-homo-thingsxd]

Reconnection. Pt2 (Endeavor X Male Reader.)

You lived out your days working as a waiter/bartender at a fairly high end restuarant. The Hook, Brine, and Shimper. The charm you feigned and easy going attitude drew the attention of an interested restaurant owner. You obviously weren't known for being the strongest, but when it came to wits and cleverness you had that on lock easily as #1. Today was a work day as any other.

"(Y/N)!! I have great news!!"

The restaurant owner approached you rather quickly and very obviously excited.

"What is it boss?"

"I just got off the phone with the number 2 hero Endeavor and he's going to be coming by for our food. He didn't want to be mobbed or anything that's why he called ahead of time."

That knot you wish you didnt have to experience whenever you hear his name came back in full force. The owner noticed this as your face turned flushed a bit and your eyes fell to the floor.

"Are you alright? I know it's a lot to take in but you're my best waiter, and if he has a good time and recommends this place it would be amazing for business! Not to mention I'll throw in an extra for you since you would have to stay later. Hell, if you make him happy I'll kiss you man, anything you want."

Letting out a soft chuckle you did your best to fake a smile. Something that was too common.

"I-ill do it. I can't promise anything though. I've heard he's... difficult."

In his excitement he didn't notice the emphasis you put on difficult.

"Awesome! Thank you so, so much, it means a lot to me, (Y/N)."

As time drew closer you became more and more anxious. You kept trying to remind yourself. No matter what, be confident, and professional. If he brings up the past it's different. You must not, think of your boss, he's relying on you. Don't let him down.

Your boss stood outside when the bulking mass approached the building. He's so huge now. He was big at U.A, but now he's huge. His face hadn't changed much. He still had that same determinated gaze in his eyes.

"Welcome, Endeavor. I'm the one you spoke with on the phone. The restaurant owner, and this fella right here will be your server tonight. (Y/N) if you would."

"Hello, Mr. Todoroki. Welcome to the Hook, Brine, and Shrimper. The finest restaurant in the area. I hope you find your stay a pleasant one, and whatever you need please let me know if I can help you."

You did a bow and after a moment straightened yourself up. The look on his face was, different. He seemed he was happy, but who knows honestly. His expression softened at least.

"Thank you, (Y/N). I'm sure I'll enjoy this visit. I've heard only good things about this place, and about you. You're quite well known in this place."

"Well that's a relief. You humble me with your words, and I appreciate your kindness Mr. Todoroki."

"Please, Enji or Endeavor is fine."

"Of course, my apologies. Enji, if you'll follow me I will lead you to your seat."

He nodded and you turned and lead the way. Your nerves were so on edge. It felt to you, at least, like there was a lot of tension in the air. Who knows? Maybe he was completely oblivious and forgot about you. That would be better.

"Here you are."

You inclined your head towards the booth and he sat. Placing a menu on the table once he was comfortable.

"May I start you off with a drink?"

"A water is fine for now."

"Are you sure? It might evaporate before you even get to take a sip."

"Heh. You got that right."

"It'll be right out for you."

He took a look at the menu and you stepped away towards the soda fountain and was immediately approached by one of your nosy co-workers. Sarah propped herself up by her arms and chuckled

"Well, well. Look at you getting to serve the number 2 hero. Think he likes you?"

"Hah. You're funny. No, he doesn't. We have a history together. Not a good ending. I'm not even sure if he remembers me."

"Yeesh. I'm sorry to open up that wound. Still if you really want I could always take over."

"No. The boss entrusted this to me. I'll manage."

With that you filled up the glass with water and walked it back to Endeavor.

"Here you go, sorry about the wait. There was a line back there."

"It's no problem. Say, I have a question for you."

"What can I help you with?"

"Would you be willing to talk when you're off the clock? I.... wanted to apologize formally."

You took a step back and looked to the ground. So he did remember.... did he come here knowing that there was a chance you'd be working? He can apologize all he wants but he'll never understand the pain you've endured these years from him. Regardless. It might be the closure you need.

After a moment of thought. You looked to him and gave a faint smile.

"Sure, but more importantly. What can I get you to eat tonight? You're favorite food is Kuzumochi still, right?"

His eyes widened a bit as he smiled softly, and letting out a scoff.

"You still remember that, huh?"

"Of course I do we're.... we were classmates."

He looked down at the table, it almost seemed like he was sad.

"Yeah, we were."

"Any specific way you want it prepared, sir?"

"I'll take it as it comes."

"Sounds good, it'll be right out."

He didn't give a response, which was his way of ending a conversation. Without stalling you head back and told the chef what to prepare and who it was for.

When the same annoying employee grabbed at your shoulders.

"Seems you were speechless, what'd he say that was so wild? Give me the details."

"He wants to talk. After all this time. When I'm off the clock. I'm already here past what I was supposed to be. So that means.... soon."

She could tell you were quite uneasy about this. She was good at reading moods and people alike.

"You seem bothered. You said you had a history together. Wouldn't you be happy that he wants to reconnect?"

"It didnt end well. It's going to be the same now. He's too stubborn to change."

She took a step back.

"Once again, sorry for asking. I figured you just got in a little scrap and that was that but it seems a bit more involved. On your end primarily."

"What does that mean?"

You said jokingly

"You're the only one who's upset about reconnecting with him. If he didnt want to he wouldn't. You're the one that's bothered, so you're still hanging on to the past, right?"

Damn her. How could she be so perceptive?

"I never got any closure. Of course I'm still hanging on to the past."

"Then get it when you talk later. Simple as that."

With that said the food was ready to be served. You took it out to him and gracefully presented it to him while putting the plate down.

"Here you are, sir. Need another water? It seems half of it did evaporate."

"I suppose it did. Another one would be nice."

"Right away."

Filling another glass with water your back was flicked and there was Sarah.

"If you get laid let me know."

"WHAT?"

You covered your mouth and broke down to a whisper

"Why would you say that? whatever thought is in your head I need it to leave and visit the shadow realm. it doesn't belong on this earth."

"Someones a drama queen. Isn't he waiting for that water you've overfilled that's currently all over your hand?"

You got so distracted by what she said you didnt even notice it.

"I hate you."

"No you don't. I'll be waiting for the details."

Gah. Sometimes she's annoying.

After getting a new glass and drying your hand you brought it out to Endeavor.

"You sounded surprised, everything alright?"

Of course he heard that. Who didn't?

"Yeah, I'm sorry. My friend told me something loaded very abruptly. I was taken aback that's for sure. I hope you still enjoy your meal. Need anything else?"

"No thank you, I'm sure I'll enjoy this it looks amazing."

You stepped away and sat in the break room for a few minutes. Anxiety and sadness was growing as more time passed. After all this time he wants to talk now? Who does he think he is...? Tch. Whatever. You stood up and took a deep breath and marched back out there.

"How was it, Satisfactory?"

"Yes, very much so. It was all gone before I noticed."

"Hah, I see that."

"When are you off the clock?"

"Whenever you're finished. The boss asked me to stay for you."

"Really, and you did?"

"I didnt want to let him down. Besides. He offered me some extra money for staying."

"I..I see. Well I'm finished, so I'll head to the front and pay. Unless.. you wanted to walk together?"

"I need to grab my bag and keys but I'll be up there shortly."

He simply nodded and started towards the entrance. Shortly after you met him up there. The boss was also up there talking to him, he seemed happy at least. Endeavor caught you out of the corner of his eye and turned towards you.

"Are you ready?"

"Yeah."

"Well sir, it's been a wonderful experience here. (Y/N) certainly made it better, so be sure to treat him well. He deserves it."

"Endeavor that's not-"

'Of course Endeavor I make sure all my staff are well taken care of, but by your request I will certainly pay extra attention to him.

"Then I will be sure to recommend this place to everyone that I know. Maybe even a public statement. I don't do those often."

"That would be wonderful! Thank you both so much. I'll see you around."

With that the owner stepped away and you were now left with Endeavor.

"You didnt have to say that to him, but I appreciate it."

"It's the least I can do, now, let's go. Follow me."

Endeavor lead the way outside to the car that would drive them. The driver was an older man with a fancy looking top hat. He took a step out of the vehicle and bowed slightly.

"So you're the company Mr. Todoroki has spoken so highly of. The one he wanted to make amen-"

"That's enough, I can do the explaining. I appreciate you being so open with your schedule. Leonard."

"Heheh, you act like I get much business these days. You treat me like royalty in comparison to others. Anyway, are you two lovebirds getting in?"

There was a silence as Endeavors flames soared up, he surprisingly remained silent with a bit lip. You were shocked and embarrassed, bashfully you got in the back behind the driver. Endeavor got in the back with you. It gave you a perspective of just how huge this man was. He took up one and quarter of a seat. You're sure that if he wasn't so tense it would be half of a seat.

"Would you be alright coming to my residence tonight? I can drop you off at your home later."

"Yeah, that's fine, Endeavor."

"Leonard, if you will."

"Yeah yeah, I heard ya two back there."

Maybe it was just you but that lovebird comment still felt up in the air. It felt very awkward at least on your end.

"So, Y/N, you single? You look like quite the catch."

The heat got a little more intense.

"What kind of question is that Leonard? Do you ask all your clients that?"

"I asked you and him didnt I? You're both quite reserved around each other eh?"

"Leonard, with all do respect. It's been years since we've seen each other. It's still shocking to see him again. I thought I never would, not in person at least."

You spoke the truth. There was no point in lying at this point.

"Ah I see. Maybe I jumped to conclusions, my apologies. We're only about 3 minutes away from the Todoroki estate so you won't deal with my nagging that much longer."

You got a slight chuckle from that. The heat had died down now, it seemed Endeavor had cooled off a bit.

The 3 minutes flew and before you knew it you were outside a very large, Japanese style home. It appeared to have two floors. It seemed quite excessive for only him. Though with how active of a hero he is it wouldn't be that surprising of the money he has. Of course he could love comfortably and how he wanted.

"Well this is your stop you two. Try not to have too much fun y'hear?"

You smiled and chuckled once again.

"Thank you Leonard, you're a very nice man."

"Thanks, Leonard."

"Yeah yeah, get outta my car now."

After you both got out Leonard drove off and now you were entirely alone with Endeavor. You turned to face him and looked into his eyes for a moment before speaking.

"Want to go inside and talk? No point in doing it out here."

"Mmm. Sure, if you could, leave your shoes at the door. You can wait for me in the main room, I'll make us some tea."

With a nod he walked off quickly. You obliged to his rule which you did yourself anyway. It saved carpets if you just took off your shoes at the door so you adopted that tradition. You kneeled down on the cushion in front of the table and finally let your body relax a bit. Your shoulders had become so stiff because of today.

Thinking back on it, today was crazy. You got a crazy offer from your boss, took the offer then had to cater for someone you hadn't seen in a long time and now you're in his house alone with him.

Needless to say you're a bit tense.

"Heres the tea, and I brought you something else."

He laid down the tea and held up a traditionalish kimono. He too had changed into one. It resembled more of a robe, but it was a bit more tight and revealing of the legs. A hybrid between the two it seemed. He switched out of his hero costume and without the tight clothing you could still see he was thick all over. His arm, chest, thighs, legs. Everything about him.

You caught yourself staring and quickly took it from him and stood up.

"I'd be honored! Where's your restroom?"

He pointed to a door on the right side of the room.

"Through there first door on the left. Help yourself to whatever you need."

"Thank you."

You quickly trotted off towards the rest room. Once you were clear and alone you quickly switched and did your best to calm down in the lower half. Those feelings tugged at you. You still weren't over what happened, but more importantly you still cared for him deeply. Your erection could've easily been caused by his body, but it felt more like your body was yearning for him. The more you stared the more feelings came back. The excitement you had from being friends with him and seeing him every day.. not that he cares.. nothings changed, he's just saying sorry for himself. But maybe that's what you need. To hear there's no possibility he'll be anything to you. Maybe the honest truth will help you move on.

The hybrid clothing was easy enough to get on, and after letting yourself settle and splashing your face with water you came back out. He was looking down at the table with the cup of tea in his hand. He looked over to you for a moment then back to the table.

"My apologies for making you wait. I'm quite tired so I had to splash my face a bit."

"That's alright. Are you sure you want to chat? I can just drop you off now if you'd like."

"Huh? Endeavor this was your idea. You said you wanted to apologize. After all these years I couldn't just say no to an old friend, could I?"

"Is that the only reason you came with me?"

"No. I want to have an end to our chapter. It's been on hiatus for far too long. Endeavor. I'll be frank, it still hurts me the way it left off."

"You're... still hurt by that? All this time I've been hurting you?"

You were taken by surprise at what he said. It made you stop and think for a moment.

"Yes. I have been. I wanted nothing more than a best friend Enji. I told you my home life and nobody would be around a weakling like me. I was all alone. You were my light at my darkest times. You had such drive and tenacity. It was infectious. It helped me when I needed it most."

He sat a for a moment and his tea began to bubble.

"I'm... awful. I didn't think I meant anything to you. I thought you just wanted to be my friend to use me.. it happened so often when I was younger.. people are evil, but you're not. I can't believe I turned you away. You were right, being personable was a huge part of being a hero. I was so blinded by my desire to be number 1 I ignored you. I was stupid to think with how things ended between us that I could just mend things with you with a 'I'm sorry.'"

"I wouldn't have come with you if I didnt want to mend things and lend go Enji. I'll always care for you. Though, it might take me awhile to actually forgive you. I understand your actions though."

"You'll always care for me? Do you even hear yourself.. I don't deserve your care."

"Well get used to it. My feelings of compassion towards you haven't gone away yet, and I doubt they will."

He placed down his cup of tea and stood up. He walked over to you and looked down. He lowered his head and shut his eyes.

"I know its sudden, but I feel things can change between us. I owe it to you, after all this time. Will you forgive me?"

You stood up and did what felt natural. You brought him into a tight hug. His body tensed up, but after a moment his large arms wrapped around you and his hands met your back. He rested his cheek on the side of your head.

"Of course I forgive you, but I still need time to process this, okay?"

"I understand. Thank you, Y/N for still being my friend."

"No problem, Enji, you're my best friend. That won't change easily."

"Best friend? Hmm.. I think that describes you perfectly."

With a smile and soft blush the pain that had eaten away at your heart subsided. The past is the past, it still hurts, but you knew with time and patience the pain would cease to be. You could finally be happy, you definitely were in his arms.

[brightwood-duchess]

Night Swim | Chatzy Log

Katell, Magnus and Coe. Katell has a realization that rocks her world.

Katell: Katell didn't often swim. She found the bathing suits revealing and as a Seelie court Fae on an island of sexual deviants, that could spell trouble. Night time, however, when all the others had gathered in clubs and bars, was when she felt safe to swim and enjoy the cool water on her skin. She laid back, looking up at her beloved stars in the silence.

Magnus: One of the great things about having his own place next to the ocean was that he could head down to the beach whenever he wanted. Heading down to the beach in just his shorts, Magnus chuckled as he saw a familiar figure floating in the water. "Well, well, well. I didn't expect to see anyone on the beach this late."

Katell: Katell gasped as she found her footing on the sandy bottom. Her arms instinctually wrapped around her chest and stomach as if she'd been caught naked rather than in her recently purchased bikini. Her eyes locked on to her new teacher and she felt her heart race the way it always did in class, a class she wasn't doing very well in. "W-what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be at your club?" she asked in a breathless voice

Magnus: With a grin on his face, Magnus shrugged as he slipped into the water, feel the warm water on his skin. His eyebrow cocked upwards when he sawt her try to cover herself like she was naked. "I don't spend every night at my club. Besides, it's a nice night to go skinny dipping."t

Katell: "Skinny dipping?" She questioned incredulously. "Will that be on the next test then?" She questioned with a bit of sass. He'd been kind to her before and she respected his authority as a King, but Katell was still a little bitter that she was forced to take yet another class that she was near failing. A class that set her cheeks aflame and her heart to race at the scandal of it all.

Magnus: A quick laugh and Magnus shrugged. "I wasn't planning on it but I suppose I could make it an extra credit assignment." He remembered that she wasn't doing well in his class, but he kind of expected it from her.

Katell: "Very funny," she spoke and had the audacity to roll her eyes... at a King no less. One could watch her expression change as she realized what she'd done. She bowed her head and told herself to stow her attitude, she had manners after all. With her head still bowed, she lifted her eyes to his majesty, hoping to see if he'd noticed or felt disrespected in any way.

Magnus: Magnus snorted a laugh and shook his head, a grin on his face despite her attitude. He had always been amused whenever she caught an attitude with him considering how formal she tried to act around him. "How have you been Katell?"

Katell: "I've been..." she wanted to say fine but Fae could not lie. "... shaken. I'm taking a new dance program, and now your class. I swear, the earth shattering changes just never stop coming in this place." Her eyes looked over him, so at ease in the same place that had her so on edge. "What about you?" Maybe she could figure out his secret.

Magnus: "What's wrong with my class?" Magnus asked, confused for a moment. He tried to keep things fairly equal in his class, never picking someone to the exclusion of everyone else.

Katell: "The topic is...." She bit her lip before explaining. She wanted to say that it wasn't proper talk for a duchess but in reality, she hadn't been with anyone or even felt her own hands since May of last year. She was pent up, by her own protest, but the class wasn't helping. Her things squeezed together at the thought. "I just wish I wasn't forced to discuss and listen to such salacious conversations."

Magnus: His eyebrow rose as he waited for her to explain to him her opinion of his class. "Salacious conversations huh? Tell me Katell, how long have you been at the Institute?"

Katell: "A year and 4 months," she answered, a little unsure where he was going with his questioning.

Magnus: "So in 16 months, you still have not yet come to grips with what this island is about?" Magnus asked, his eyebrow rising incredulously. "The fact that you cannot seem t hold a discussion about these topics without wishing to have it into the dark recesses of your mind is part of why my class is so important."

Katell: "I know what the island is about, but I didn't ask for that. I thought I was getting a diploma and a way into the mortal workforce. Otherwise I would never have come here." She sighed and tried to explain. "I just... I don't indulge in that discussion as acts like that can cause rumour and scandal, things I avoid at all costs. It's why my protest is..." Katell stopped. She'd never admitted to anyone that she was holding her own protest. She blushed and wished she could take back those words. If she was asked about them, she couldn't lie.

Coe: Coe wasn't sure what it was about the beach, but sometimes when he was having a restless night it just calmed him down. He never really slept, being a hellhound, but it let him relax when he needed it. But when he realized that he wasn't the only one here, Coe smirked and waved. "Hello!"

Katell: Katell's gaze lifted to the distraction from her verbal blunder. Thank the realms! Although her arms tightened a bit more where they wrapped around her own body, at least this could distract from her accidental admission.

Magnus: "Look, I get it. You were exiled from the one thing you knew and thrust into a world that didnt make sense to you. Unfortunately, if you're gonna make it in the mortal world, you need to stop acting like you're still a Fae noble." His head cocked to the side at her comment. "Your protest?" Looking up, Magnus nodded to the newcomer. "Hi."

Coe: Coe felt like he interrupted the conversation when he entered and he ran a hand through his hair. "Ah. Um. Do you need me to go?" He pointed a thumb over his shoulder. "I feel like this is a serious conversation. I hope I'm not intruding."

Katell: "But I'm not going to be here forever, I'm going to go back home and whatever I do here could ruin that. I can't live for the now, I have to live for my future." She winced a bit when he questioned her protest. "I... I swore to myself that.... that I wouldn't... find.... release..." before she could admit anymore she latched onto Coe's entrance. "No, it's fine. We weren't discussing anything important."

Coe: Coe smiled when he saw Katell. "It seems like whenever we see each other, we aren't completely dressed. Hi Katell. I hope you've been well." He said as he walked towards them into the water.

Katell: "Right," she remembered the lack of attire when they'd met during the Winter break. She was beginning to deeply regret buying the bikini but she'd little money for herself and it was a costly option. "We were just discussing the new class Magnus is teaching," not a great segue away from her admission of celibacy, but she didn't have a better idea.

Coe: Coe nodded. "And you still look just as good as before. I like it." He gave her his normal goofy smile. "It looks amazing on you." Coe nodded. "Ah yes. That's why he looks familiar. I knew I've seen you somewhere. Hello Professor." He held his hand out. "Nice to officially meet you and not just see you in class." Coe smiled. "I'm Coe."

Magnus: Magnus raised an eyebrow at Katell and shook his head in exasperation. "You are missing the point of the class dear, but then I suppose I can't be too surprised. Most people do." Turning to the newcomer, Magnus nodded his head in greeting. "Hello Coe. Please, call me Magnus. I don't worry about titles in settings like this."

Katell: Katell bowed her head at Magnus' words. She was missing the point of a lot of things it seemed. Everyone she spoke to these days was telling her how wrong her approach was. It was wearing on her a bit. How could they all agree she was wrong?

Coe: Coe nodded. "Nice to meet you, Magnus." He corrected himself. "I've had fun in the class. It's been really helpful. I like it. If that is any consolation." He shrugged.

Magnus: Chuckling, Magnus nodded. "Well, I try to make it both fun and informative. I figure if I can make the topic more fun then I might actually get some real information to sneak in."

Katell: "Real information?" Katell asked, quieter than before. What real information could come from learning the difference between a foot fetish and a hand fetish?

Coe: Coe nodded. "I would say so. I've never done anything before I came here, and I've learned a lot. Definitely been a helpful course. I've had a lot more fun recently."

Magnus: Nodding his head, Magnus smiled. "Yes. The whole point of my Sex and Kink class is to teach proper kink so that hopefully proper techniques will be applied and there will be less injuries amongst the grant students."

Katell: "Abstinence would do the same thing, wouldn't it?" It was working in her favour at least. She'd been 8 months without orgasm herself. Then again, all of her friends would likely have told her the opposite.

Coe: Coe shrugged. "I would assume even if you were abstinent here, it would come in handy at any point in your life. Even if you left the island, it could come in handy if there is anything you ever want to try with a willing partner."

Katell: That was a good point. She wasn't just living for the future, she was living for one goal in her future. "Still, its just... so much to take in..."

Coe: Coe smiled and grabbed her hand, giving it a squeeze. "Even if you are choosing to be abstinent, as hard as it is while here, I would say it's still something to try to at least soak in the information. Better to at least have the knowledge, than not have it at all."

Magnus: "I'm not teaching abstinence. The idea of trying to rely solely on abstinence as any kind of control factor is outright ridiculous."

Katell: It shocked her how easily he called out her little game, and Magnus putting down her plans brought her near to tears in a way she'd never been on the island before. "So what, I'm just supposed to lose myself in the arms of anyone who wants me? Jeopardize my future to survive in a place I don't even want to be?" She bit her lip to stop herself from crying in frustration. "What if my court finds out I'm sleeping around on a sex slave island?" She honestly didn't know what they'd do but she often had nightmares about them finding out which usually ended in the loss of her title and eternal banishment.

Coe: Coe knew how hard it was to be abstinent, but he wasn't one to talk. He liked sex and it was something he discovered with himself once he got here. And it seemed like a lot of people wanted him in that way. So if it made others happy, he didn't mind sleeping with them. He loved it. But he sympathized. He didn't want anyone to do anything they didn't want to. Though that wasn't what this island was about. So he kept ahold of her hand as she got frustrated and gave her hand a squeeze. "That sounds tough. But it also sounds like you're putting a lot of faith in things you can't control. And it seems like those who you belong to outside of the island control you just as much as this island does. Why choose either?" He asked curiously. "I've chosen my happiness. And it has seemed to help. Myself is more important than anyone trying to control me."

Katell: "I don't belong to-" her tongue stopped her, unable to tell a lie. Of course she belonged to someone. She belonged to the Seelie Court. She lived for them in every aspect of her life. They had as much control over her as the collar around her neck. Her shoulders sank and the arms that were wrapped around her fell away, one hand remaining in Coe's. She felt defeated as she saw just how long she'd lived with chains around her.

Coe: Coe pulled her into his arms and gave her a tight hug, like he was trying to hide her away. Like he was trying to block her from being seen from anyone. It seemed like there was many issues at play here and sex was just one of the factors. He rubbed her back with one of his hands. "It's okay."

Magnus: "Did you not chose to come to this school?" Magnus asked quietly, trying to tamp down his natural aggression. "I'm not trying to say you chose to be a sex slave, but last I knew the Institute was not in the habit of kidnapping people and forcing them to come to the island. You may not have wanted to leave the court, but you were made to leave and you chose to come here instead." Dunking his head in the water, he pushed his hair back out of his face before continuing. "As for what your court does or does not know, I think you have a mistaken idea of what they will or will not be ok with. The Seelie Courts are not the mortal royal courts for as much as the royals try to emulate the Fae." He could see that this was not a topic Katell was interested in talking about and so shook his head. "It seems my presence has upset you so I will bid you both good evening."

Katell: Katell hardly felt the embrace at first, she felt tricked, lied to and betrayed by the last people she held dear in her life. Would everyone she cared for only use her in the end. Eventually she registered his comforting and gave Coe a short hug back. All the while Magnus spoke and made her feel even stupider for her choices.

"No, It's fine. I'm the one who should go. I..." she had some thinking to do over this and perhaps some tears that she didn't want to shed in front of anyone else. She gently removed Coe's arms and gave both of them a head nod before heading out of the water, grabbing her things from the beach and heading off. She needed to assess so much now.

[hybridmlments]

dragon age inquisition male romance options reacting to you being a serial killer

I got excited and did a few more than just the romanceable ones, including Krem, Varric, and your dear Quizzie Ceri 💖

Disclaimer: All of these are mlm regardless of whether it’s “canon” or not.

Iron Bull

The Bull knew from the beginning, Ben Hassarath training, remember? Perhaps that should have been reason enough not to get involved, but it wasn’t as if he hadn’t done terrible things himself. He looked for signs of regret and despair every day, and he saw them often enough that he convinced himself that this was just a sickness you had, it wasn’t an indication of your morality. But, soon he starts to notice a pattern.

He notices that the irritability and tense muscles occur in the week approaching that one night where you have a mission for the Inquisitor that you just can’t get out of, so you’re going to be gone until tomorrow, and you’re so sorry but you’ll make it up to him. The blood splatters on your clothes and skin aren’t akin to fighting bandits and those on equal standing, the tears in your clothes show sign of a struggle, but not your own. You weren’t regretting killing, you were suffering from the absence of it. It was an addiction, you revelled in it - for days afterwards you’d be on a high that couldn’t be stopped. Your grin would make your face ache, your laughter could be heard all over Skyhold. It made Bull grow solemn, and distant, something you tried to fix but you couldn’t - you’d didnt understand what you’d done after all. He didn’t let himself talk about it, what right did he have? He was a killer too.

Dorian Pavus

Dorian had his suspicions when he was first hanging up your clean clothes, you insisted they had servants for that but he did so long to organise your wardrobe, feeling the fabric of your clothes between his fingers and coming up with new systems and categories to arrange them. You should have been more careful, a white shirt was never going to be rid of the stains - the red on the cuff from where you’d restrained your latest victim. When he asked you shrugged it off, saying you really shouldn’t have worn white on a mission in the Wastes. Dorian didn’t believe you, not really - he knew signs of a struggle when he saw them. He’d wanted to though, he forced himself to ignore his better judgement.

Of course, your final kill was too far, he was willing to ignore the signs for only so long, nobody’s perfect after all. You didn’t expect Dorian to find you, not when you’d been so careful - you’d picked a warehouse in the outskirts of Val Royeoux and used Inquisition forces to capture Halward Pavus, he’d pay for what he did to Dorian. And you were so sure his son would be ecstatic at the news, you planned it all - to come clean when he discovered and he’d be thrilled. That was the plan. One that went awry, because Dorian followed you, he followed his gut instinct for the first time in so long but it was too late - by the time he got there you were already standing over his father’s corpse, grinning from ear to ear. You tried to explain, reason with him, anything - but it was all for naught. He stayed to vomit and sit with his arms wrapped around his legs, he stayed to stare at his father. But the moment he had regained his composure he ran, leaving you with the torn silk from his robes in your bloodied hands.

Ceri Trevelyan

“It is with sorrow that I announce your next judgement,” Josephine said solemnly, trying to disguise the tears in her voice. “A man who I think needs no introduction, [Y/N].” Knelt in front of the Inquisitor was a man she knew, someone she’d laughed with, played cards with, a friend, so she thought. But she couldn’t let her feelings betray her - no matter how difficult it was for her, for Ceri it would be a thousand times harder. No one should have to judge their lover, the only one Ceri ever truly allowed himself to trust.

He sat on his throne, his posture small and tight, his chin resting in his tight fists which made a table for his head as his elbows rested on his knees. His purple eyes stared at the man he thought he knew, he tried to look for signs that his prisoner regretted his choices, that it was in fact an elaborate con - it wasn’t his lover at all! He was tied up in the basement! Unfortunately, that didn’t happen. Instead his lover knelt patiently, refusing to look at the Inquisitor, instead preferring to fixate on the floor so their face was covered by their hair.

“Don’t you have anything to say in your defence?” Ceri snapped, as he waited for his prisoner to speak. He flinched at the sound noise, and Ceri felt his chest ache with guilt. “[Y/N], please. Please give me something.”

“I can’t,” you reply quietly, so much so that the Inquisitor could barely hear you. “I won’t. You betrayed me. The moment I told you, you had me in shackles-”

“I had no choice! What else could I do? I can’t let you repeat your mistakes. I-“ Ceri hesitates and curled on himsel even tighter. “Will you stop? Ever?” He ended desperately. “Give me something.” You shook your head, you were prepared for the answer, when he gave the order for your execution, the whole room was silent. You lifted your chin and allowed yourself to look at him one last time.

“I have one final request, Inquisitor,” you said, formally enough that it made Ceri squirm. “I wish for you to swing the blade yourself.”

Thom Rainier / “Blackwall”

Blackwall denied it for a long time, growing angry whenever someone brought up anything about your behaviour. He didn’t think there was anything remotely suspicious about you being often covered in blood, nor did he notice your giddy demeanour at the executions. Blackwall adored [Y/N] and that was that. Of course you came home with dark stains over your clothes, the Inquisition was brutal work. And it was also the sort of job where you disappeared for hours at night. He eventually berated himself for not seeing the signs, but then he had just wanted to think the best of you - was there any harm in that?

Perhaps that’s what made you so relaxed, you never tried too hard to hide your actions in regards to your partner - he was far too trusting, stupidly trusting you thought sometimes. On occasion it made you angry and scared, thinking of all those who would manipulate and take advantage of him. You were certain that he could walk in on you on the battlements with blood on your hands and organs on your armour and you’d be able to talk your way out of it. When that happened however, you both just stood in silence - lying became difficult, and Blackwall couldn’t do it to himself any more either.

What made it worse is that the victim was a nobody - it wasn’t a noble, an enemy of the Inquisition or [Y/N], it wasn’t a criminal... it was just nobody. A random person taken from the streets, as Blackwall stared at the torn apart, brutalised pieces of the body he wondered if they had a family, where they shopping for food? Did they have a decent job? Maybe they were a merchant themselves, or a farmer. Would their children be able to eat tonight? He voiced this, he shouted it so loudly that you were certain someone would here and you’d both be doomed. But he only spoke, he still helped you dispose of it, he never mentioned your activities again, simply nodding and going quiet whenever the subject came up. Afterall, you weren’t the only one with a secret.

Solas

“Mm, well done, excellent technique, if a little grotesque... But overall very nice. I can’t say the same of your attempts to cover up your little night time habits though,” Solas said as he entered, his voice smooth and steady and causing you to jump from your skin and let out a yelp of shock. You slowly turned around to see the elf stood in the door way, a smirk on his lips. You stood above your victim, a fucking Shem whose favourite past time was torturing elves - those were your targets. Solas would understand that, he had to. His expression said as much, and he approached you with that smug sadistic demeanour you knew so well. You thought he’d help you destroy those who’d hurt and oppress... but he was just looking for a new agent, and he knew just how easily you could be controlled.

Cullen Rutherford

You didn’t realise for a long time that your beloved knew, but it started to all connect after a while. The apostates who’d been all too easy to track, so much so they basically fell into your lap and begged to be killed. And they all came from Cullen. Every single one was pointed towards you from the War Table and it was your commander’s suggestion every time. You realised over one of your’s and his nightly games of chess. He picked up the bishop, and took your rook. A foolish mistake, truly. You walked right into that one.

“Well, that’s not a mistake the Inquisitor would usually make,” Cullen smirked, leaning back in his chair after he’d finished his turn, resting his hands on his gut. “Normally you see everything coming then you go in for the kill.” You froze and looked up at the knowing, piercing smirk. He knew what you did, and not only did he not care - he was playing with you the entire time.

Cremisius “Krem” Aclassi

Cremisius Aclassi had seen his fair share of death and everything that came with it. He’d seen blood magic and watched the Chief’s eye be ripped from his head, he still saw the man with a bloody empty socket when he closed his eyes. He didn’t consider himself squeamish, or easily frightened. From living as a lower class Tevinter to the army to working for the Inquisition he’d been raised around this sort of life, even a tailor’s kid saw his fair share of muggings, stabbings, slave hunters, and houses being burned to the ground... but none of that prepared him for what awaited him when he walked into his chambers that night.

When you told him you had a surprise for him, he’d been excited - a little wary, as he tended to be, but he was looking forward to returning from the Herald’s Rest. Of course, the moment he entered and saw you sprawled across the bed, he couldn’t saw a word - his body convulsed, shook, his eyes rolled backwards, and he doubled over with his pints of beer mixed with Shepard’s pie rapidly gushed all over the wooden floor. You sat up instantly, rushing to his aid, barely aware of the fact that you were naked or that the blood from your victim was staining your legs and gut. Perhaps this was too much, you had been so sure him coming home to see you, sprawled out on the bed, naked with a Tevinter Magister’s head covering your genitalia would be so romantic... You’d have loved it. Unfortunately it turned Krem into a shaking terrified wreck. You tried to comfort him but he flinched away from you, shaking and weeping on the floor, rocking back and forth - barely aware of his knees being soiled by vomit. Eventually he stood to his feet, you tried to aid him but he pulled away, stumbling. He couldn’t speak, but his thoughts were more than clear.

Varric

Varric enjoyed murder mysteries and detective novels, they had a nice formula that felt welcoming and calm to him. Maybe that’s why he figured it out so quickly, he didn’t dawdle, didn’t wait for you to kill again. He simply showed up to the scene of the crime one day, shaking his head and letting out the mother of all sighs.

“Shit, what have I got myself into now?” He said as he helped you clean up. He didn’t approve, that much was clear - but as far as he saw it he’d gotten involved with worse people than cutthroats, assassains, and murderers. Some of his best friends fit those categories.

“Listen, sweetheart,” he said to you, as you threw the sack of limbs from the cliffs of the wounded coast. “If I could find out it was you, it won’t take long for anyone else to. You gotta make yourself much more subtle. I can help with that.” He had his standard smile, but his eyes weren’t quite the same after that. He tried to see it as a hobby or a personality quirk - but it got harder every time. He often thought of turning on his heel and leaving you, but he was never the sort to give up. He mated for life in a way.

[letsperaltiago]

We’ll sweep out the ashes in the morning |CHAPTER 2|

If you're new here: welcome! And if you're returning for second chapter: bless you :')

Here's to some Peraltiago banter and pining !!

Read it on AO3 or simply enjoy it here! I appreciate comments more than you know <3

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CHAPTER 2: I say we don't know what comes 'cause that's on the way

“I’m home,” Jake called out as per routine as soon as he set a foot inside the walls of his home as the clock stroke 8 PM. The winter darkness had swallowed New York whole multiple hours ago, and the dwelling feeling of this specific day being that longest in a while was stuck in Jake’s tired, cold bones. Yes, today had felt torturously long, but it wasn’t because of the dark season (a national depression and whatnot) or the fact that he’d been out the door for 12 hours by now. No, all day long it’d felt like his phone and hands were constantly burning in what was clearly a move with the intention of provoking him. His body wanted to text Amy so bad; the faster he did that, the sooner he’d (hopefully) get to see her again. Yet he managed to refrain from doing so, figuring that Amy Santiago wouldn’t give anyone or anything but her job the time of day during official work hours.

Next thing he knew and before his thoughts could carry him elsewhere, the sound of a few light steps approached from the living room. Meanwhile he shrugged off his coat to abandon it on its designated hanger; right next to hers and above the already kicked off shoes.

“Hey,” he heard a warm voice welcome his eyes to switch in the direction of its owner. Here they met a pair of beautiful, welcoming brown irises. Not Amy’s warm brown irises though, he caught himself thinking… This was so wrong.

Immediately upon realising the betrayal his mind had just presented to him, Jake Peralta felt his heart skip a beat - the guilty kind - along with his gut dropping. It was indeed very wrong (even a rule he’d say) to compare ones current girlfriend, who was currently leaning against the doorframe connecting the living room to the entree, to an old friend slash colleague. Especially when you’d only talked to said old colleague for 3 minutes the very same morning. Her leaning hip elegantly as ever nudged the rest of her figure out of her resting position with his direction as target. “How was your day? It’s kinda late and I was getting worried about you.” Slender hands slid onto his waist as if they were making their way back home, reminding Jake of the fact that there was indeed nothing to worry about. Not when the incredibly stunning and smart Sophia Perez was gripping onto his knitted sweater in order to keep him in place for a welcoming kiss to his purple, frozen lips.

“Sorry,” barely made it out against her lips. Pulling away was his next move. “I had a perp that didn’t exactly feel like confessing, so I had to stay in order to get him to talk. He was not a fan.”

“Always the hero, huh?” Sophia smiled cheekily before turning back around prior to walking back to whatever she’d been doing before he walked in. “I had to bring home an important case that’s due tomorrow, so I’m working on that and already ate… But I made sure to keep a portion of dinner for you. It’s ready to be put in the microwave.” Then she disappeared back into the living room.

“Thank you,” was all there was left for him to call out after her, before making his way to their kitchen. ‘Their kitchen’ was still such a weird concept to Jake; sure they’d been together for 4 years now and had lived together for almost two, but sharing his home with another person still seemed surreal to him. This was of course nothing personal against Sophia, but it’d taken Jake a while to get comfortable enough with the idea of sharing a home with a romantic partner - hence why it’d taken Sophia two years to convince him of the fact that his apartment was a hazardous climate and that sharing the bills in two would ease their respective economies. All that aside, they now shared a quite nice apartment not too far from the 99th precinct and once again there was actual food on the table instead of his usual ‘chocolate milk with whatever cereal was in his cupboard that day’-combo. Not that he expected Sophia to cook or do anything for him… It was more a case of Sophia not really letting him, because she was afraid of him messing up, which to Jake himself seemed to be a fair judgement of character. What a chaos it would’ve been if he’d ended up with someone who couldn’t cook.

Whilst waiting for his food to be heated by the microwave as it quietly purred in the background, Jake suddenly realised he’d actually managed to forget about the burning phone in his pocket. For approximately three minutes. Nice. Without any further hesitation he grabbed the device from the right front pocket of his jeans and  swiped it open before immediately clicking the green ‘contacts’ button; dear God, he hoped he still had her number. If not, he’d probably kill- Oh wait, there it was. Jake instantly felt his heart settle again. Yet just as quickly as it had settled, his veins started pumping and of course his heart followed behind, racing again just as his shaky thumb clicked her name then ‘send message’.

Elsewhere, still in her old apartment, Amy Santiago heard her phone give off a rumbling sound that was too loud to ignore. A sigh escaped her otherwise relaxed body in frustration caused by the fact that she’d forgotten to take her phone off vibrate. Trying to fight the global phone-addiction, she liked her evenings undisturbed and preferably without unnecessary use of any gadgets. Though she had to admit that this interruption was no one else but her own fault; and Jake Peralta’s, she mentally added shortly after having put down her book and pushed herself off the couch to check on whoever was trying to reach her after 8 PM. A small, some would say guilty even, grin let its presence be known at the sight before her. Of course it was him; who else?

Jake Peralta: Didnt have ur email saved in my contacts. Sorry:(

Creative, funny enough for her to breath out a chuckle. Even though it was just a few words, Amy had to admit that she was pleasantly surprised by how unquestionably their dynamic fell back into place; something she’d lacked ever since her transfer.

Amy Santiago: I’ll let it slide this one time.

Waiting, staring at the three taunting dots, holding her breath.

Jake Peralta: cool cool cool. so i was thinkin saturday. shaw’s. 8 pm. cool?

Jake’s lack of upper case letters was a mess, which could only cause Amy to feel physically uncomfortable. She was just about to allow herself to comment on it; had he not gone to school? Though she refrained and thus it was quickly replaced by more important matters such as verifying her neatly structured calendar. It would be a lie though, if she claimed to not have made a mental note; Jake really needed to step up his texting game and formal requirements. Simply the thought of his supposed, messy work mails caused yet another shudder, whilst her fingers directed the conversation in a completely different direction.

Amy Santiago: Just checked my calendar and we’re in the clear. Saturday at 8 it is. Hope you’ve gotten better at pool.

In his comfortable spot on his and Sophia’s couch as yet another episode of Queer Eye introduced itself, Jake tried to act if he wasn’t actually afraid of not getting a reply; as if he didn’t fear the fact that Amy had agreed to meet up just to be polite and get rid of him that very same morning. He tried to act as if that would be okay ‘cause it’s not like they meant more to each other than the average old friend slash colleague. People came and went; Jake knew that better than anyone. Though that didn’t mean that he was actually good at playing it off as okay - especially when ‘people’ could potentially be Amy Santiago. Mercifully, a buzz coming from the arm rest beside him drew his attention away from the warm dinner before him and spiralling thoughts. There was no questioning the fact that he did indeed reach for the buzzing device way too fast, but all that fell aside when the lock screen’s preview of the text caused his heart to swell with joy.

Jake Peralta: deal. and dont worry. i’ve been practicing. ur ass will be whooped by 9

A feeling of a potential catastrophe came rushing through his entire body as soon as his finger had pressed the ‘send’ button. Perhaps your third text in five years to an old friend shouldn’t include her ass; especially when you own ass was far from single and definitely had felt… emotions towards said old friend at some point in time. Fumbling fingers quickly typed out a desperate, probably pointless, redeem before yet again hitting ‘send’.

Jake Peralta: sorry!! that was really inappropriate!

“Fuck,” he furiously locked his phone, mad at himself, at the exact same time as the back of his head hit the back of his couch in defeat. Well, if she had no reason to back out before, she definitely had now. Billions of minutes went by (or so it felt) before another buzz drew the heavy head off the back of the couch in a quick snap. In a spur of moment it all very much felt like the pivotal moment of his entire life.

Amy Santiago: Title of your sex tape?

Oxygen once again poured right into his lungs, allowing his chest to open up and his breath to unhinge from the brief, horrid intermission. The widest smile in forever (compared to what, he didn’t exactly know) formed on his tired yet now very content face. Their relationship really hadn’t changed and apparently the student had become the teacher.

Though ‘Saturday at 8 PM’ had seemed lightyears away on that Wednesday, for both Jake and Amy, the weekend and day finally emerged. Unbeknownst to the opposite party, one was more nervous and excited than the other. They’d sent each other a few texts during those few days; small jokes, remarks and other whatnots without importance. Little did they know that every single notification made the other’s heart jump to their throats for just a nanosecond - every damn time.

Amy Santiago: I’m at Shaw’s. Got us two seats in the right corner booth. Where are you?

Jake Peralta: its only 7.48!.. whatever. shouldve known i never had a fighting chance. see ya in 10

Amy chuckled to herself after leaving her phone face down on the oh so familiar, wooden table. Seemingly out of nowhere, the strong familiarity of the situation hit her like a ton of bricks: Sitting in a booth at Shaw’s, the smoke from multiple lit cigarettes mixed with the smell of alcohol, waiting for an iconically late Jake, sipping on a cheap beer… If she hadn’t known any better, Amy could’ve sworn that she was back in 2014. There was no way she’d ever say it out loud, because that would mean actually acknowledging it, but she sometimes wished she actually was back in 2014. This would imply still working at the Nine-Nine and more importantly the fact that she’d get a second chance at choosing a different path for herself. A path that didn’t bring her away from what she’d forever consider her favourite work place and best friends; more precisely a path that didn’t bring her so far away from the possibility of getting closer to a certain idiot, sweet manchild. Sometimes she even caught herself redhanded thinking, daydreaming about what they could’ve possibly resulted in if she’d just stayed. If only she’d just stuck around long enough for her to realise that Teddy wasn’t a match and Jake possibly was… If not perfect then maybe at least better.

She must’ve been staring at the tip of her beer bottle for quite some time seeing that as soon as she allowed her eyes to leave it, she gazed right at a smiling Jake Peralta. Almost like he’d walked right out of her guilty daydream.

“7.59,” he briefly threw a glance at his phone, before putting it down on the table. “Nailed it.”

There was that stupid, racing heartbeat again, Amy thought to herself in the midst of trying to play it off with a welcoming smile and what she hoped was a smooth answer. “I’m impressed. Just for that? First drink is on me.” She pushed a second beer, unopened, in his direction. Prepared as always.

“First drink? Damn, Santiago,” he slid himself into the narrow booth and seated himself next to her. “Are you planning on getting me drunk?”

“Shut up.” Honestly? Yes. But she couldn’t admit to that so she settled for a classic eye roll. That at least always seemed to get her out of these kinds of situations, where she hopelessly needed to run from her secret wishes.

“Here’s to reunions and old friendships,” Jake raised his beer into the air, implicitly asking Amy to make this their little moment.

“I’ll drink to that,” Amy complied, clinking her bottle against his before taking a slurp.

Moving forward, flow of the conversation was smooth and seemed infinite. As a surprise to no one, they had a lot to catch up on and there was no sparing of details or sidetracks. The rabbit hole that was their five years apart was wide agape, and with alcohol added to the mix, there was no stopping them. Their phones never left their screen down positions on the table before them, and their eyes never left the other’s. This was continuously the case until they were both three drinks in and Jake’s phone suddenly pinged.

“Sorry. Just a sec,” the beer in his hand was replaced by his phone. “Must be Sophia asking where I am.”

Sophia. Amy mentally repeated the name, analysing it, trying to put it into a fitting context but alas failed. It must’ve shown on her face. She was never good at hiding her true emotions - especially confusion, where her frowning brows would always act as snitches.

“Oh, wait…” an almost regretful, nervous even, expression presented itself on Jake’s face. “You don’t know Sophia, right?” Why did he have a culpable feeling of not wanting her to either? Things were going so well. It might not have been morally right if so, but Jake couldn’t help but consider that an evening without mentioning Sophia would’ve been easier… He knew things with Amy could never head in certain directions, but he also knew that there would’ve been nothing illegal about forgetting about certain things for just a couple of hours, right? Temporarily allowing himself to forget that Amy had left, eliminating alternative fates for their relationship, thus leading him onto a path right into Sophia’s arms. Alas, it too late. There was no way around it, and Jake had to act like he didn’t absolutely loath the cards that were now clearly on the table. “I met Sophia about a year after you transferred to Major Crimes. She’s…” Jake interrupted himself by taking a finishing gulp of his now empty beer. “She’s great. We live together in an apartment near the Nine-Nine and we’re enga- she’s uh-… my fiancée.”

If he didn’t know any better, Jake could’ve sworn that his old friend’s otherwise golden brown eyes were suddenly eclipsed b a darker shade that he couldn’t quite recognise. All he knew was that it could compare to the way sinister thunderclouds would overtake a clear spring day.

“Oh, that’s…” He saw her struggle to form words, her dark eyes returning to the old habit of centralising on inanimate objects rather than people, whenever she needed a second to form her upcoming sentence. “That’s… amazing!” her eyes were redirected back to his, paired with a weirdly contrasting smile. “I’m so happy for you, Jake. You deserve that.”

If it wasn’t because he consciously forced himself to not overanalyse every single thing she said or did that evening, Jake would’ve been worried by this immediate switch of mood. Yet he let it be, acting as if everything was as it should be. “Thank you.” That was a start, Jake thought. “Yeah, I’m… very happy.” He begged to God that he sounded more convincing than he felt. Why was he feeling like this? He was far from unhappy with Sophia and there was no justifying his opposing thoughts nor his feelings.

“Good. That’s the most important, right?”

God, he hated that he loved the way she tilted her head, whenever she would ask a rhetorical question. “Of course… But uh- what about you? Got a lucky guy?” Though he was definitely tipsy by then, he was nowhere near drunk enough for this conversation. Just the fact that he felt the need to be drunk for this particular conversation was reason enough to get drunk.

“No,” she smiled. Not sadly, because Amy Santiago surely didn’t need a man. But maybe her smile was just unaccented enough to imply that she needed something. This alone gave Jake a devilish and false sense of consolation. False in the sense that it was so wrong. On the other hand he also suddenly feel the need to figure out what this something was. “It’s just me, myself and my job,” she added.

“Well,” a comforting smile countered hers. The last thing he wanted was for her to interpret his question as criticising or demeaning. On the contrary, he actually admired (and always had) her professional drive and independence. “That’s not a bad thing. I’ll have you know…” He pushed himself out of booth for the first time since he’d arrived two hours prior, earning himself a confused look frown from Amy. “… I’ll drink to you and your admirable devotion to your job. Beer?”

Amy couldn’t point out if it was caused by the change in the way the lamp’s warm light hit him now that he was standing up; or if it was caused by him taking off his hoodie before throwing it where he’d been sitting, only to reveal his iconic and flattering flannel; or if it was caused by the buzz in her head and heating cheeks that made her wish he would peel of the remaining layers of clothing. Whatever it was, Amy Santiago was frustrated, yet happy - that collision of feelings itself was extra frustrating. She needed to fight it off the deeply wrong and forbidden thoughts with something. “Shots?”

“Shots.” He concluded, checking for his wallet. “Definitely.”

When Jake came back with four tiny glasses of some clear liquid. Amy didn’t recognise that nor the taste, when she downed her first shot seconds later with Jake back by her side. They’d gulped down one each, followed by Jake explaining her what it was, but she didn’t care at this point. All she wanted was to get back on track and forget the pre-shots conversation about the future Mrs. Peralta.

[flamegodess]

Let The Darkness Fall

Genre: AU, Fantasy, Romance, Angst, Action

Rate: T+

Characters: Riza Hawkeye, Roy Mustang, Solf Kimblee, Maes Hughes and others.

Summary:  Maybe Riza Hawkeye shouldn’t have followed her father’s apprentice that night. AU story.

Let the darkness fall

He was doing it again.

But this time, Riza wasn’t going to simply let him go. It was one o’clock in the night and Roy was suspiciously leaving the house again.

It was only one year since he had become her father’s apprentice. They used to exchange a few casual words a day and that was all that could define their relationship. Still, even though they were only a few formal and ordinary words, there was something about him that Riza couldn’t figure out.

He had a bizarre handsomeness. That kind of appearance that scares you a little, that you would believe exists only in the fantasy books. There was something about that black and messy hair and those deep and dark eyes that fascinated her. It was more like he was a beautiful painting that you are used to admiring every day and without its existence your life would be empty.

Riza wouldn’t have admired him so much if he wasn’t also intelligent. She simply knew that because other way, her father would have kicked him out a long ago, just like he had done with his former apprentices.

Still, there was something about him that didn’t match his perfect character. The fact that he was leaving the house almost every night and was returning in the morning. And he was never tired. Riza knew she shouldn’t care, but after an year of telling herself that again and again she decided that she had to see what was it all about. It was the fascination that made her leave the house and follow him.

He walked down some narrow streets that led to the suburbs of the town. Riza followed closely behind being careful not to be noticed. She suddenly shivered. It was a cold night indeed and she had no idea how longer they would walk. Was it all he was doing? Walking in the moonlight the whole night?

“Finally. You are late. ” An annoyed voice said and Riza hid in a bush.

“I sometimes need to sleep too, Kimblee.” Roy replied as he crossed his arms and approached a taller figure.

“Give him a break, Solf, he’s already doing enough for us. ” a tall guy said and punched Roy playfully in the shoulder.

There were lots of guys gathered around him, looking interested at him.

“It seems like he also brought us a gift? ” A short guy with long hair arched an eyebrow. For a second, Riza lost the sight of the guy who spoke before but the next moment she found herself thrown on the pavement in front of the huge gang.

Many pairs of glossy eyes were staring at her with interest and curiosity. She didn’t realize but she was looking for a certain pair of black orbs that she couldn’t distinguish because of the darkness. She tried to get up, but she was suddenly kicked back down.

“We told you to be careful not to be followed, Mustang. Who’s this? ”

Roy made his away to her and she swore that she had never seen that expression of guilt and concern upon his perfect face.

“Umm... She is... ”

Riza opened her mouth to talk but the man called Kimblee rose his hand and barked furiously:

“Shut up, disgusting human! ”

Riza arched an eyebrow. Since when was being a human an insult?

“Mustang, I swear, if you don’t explain this I’m cutting her throat right in front of you. ” The man called Kimblee threatened.

Riza covered her throat instinctively and shook her head confused looking at Roy. He didn’t seem to be the type of guy who was part of aggressive gangs.

“She is my feeder. ” he answered shortly and ruffled his hair. For a moment she swore that he winked at her. Yeah, she was cooking all the meals at home, but ‘feeder’ was an odd term. Some of the guys started to laugh mockingly.

“Kimblee, if I’m not wrong, it was you who said that every vampire has the right to have a human as feeder, didn’t you?” he continued to act as if all he was saying was true.

Riza froze even though she wasn’t holding his cold hand anymore. Did she hear it all correctly? Vampires?  She frowned and wanted to ask Roy if this was a joke, but by the serious glance upon his face, she decided to stay silent.

“I did, but I don’t recall the moment you brought her in front of the council and branded her us your feeder. ”

Riza’s eyes wandered confused from one to the other. The hell was going on. Feeder? Council? Brand?

“That’s because... Umm... Because I’m still not sure if she’s the one. ” Roy went on with his lie and held her a hand to get up. She stumbled on her feet and flinched at the touch of his cold hands.

“Really?” A beautiful woman with a silky voice asked from behind Kimblee. “What a shame...every vampire recognizes their feeder from the first bite. ”

“Lust is right.” Kimblee approved. “You’re lying us trying to protect her. Lying to the council is punished with ripping all of your limbs. ”

“Hey, let’s calm down.” The taller guy next to Roy stepped in front of everybody. “He’s been turned recently, maybe he can’t recognize his feeder from the first bite, right? ”

Roy nodded and Riza didn’t know why but nodded too. Hell if she understood a damn thing.

“Then feed on her. Now. So you’ll prove us that she really is your feeder and that she’s not a miserable human you’re trying to protect. ”

Riza gulped and took a step away from him.

“I’m not thirsty right now.” Roy tried to excuse himself but was interrupted by the woman who pushed Riza too brusquely in front of him.

“You’d better be. Or else you’ll both end up dying in the most painful ways.”

Roy nodded and suddenly his serious expression turned into an apologetic and sorrowful one. Riza realized what that meant. The only thing she knew about vampires was that they were drinking blood. And she would have run away as fast as she could but the fear and the shock didn’t allow her limbs to move.

“I promise I’ll make it quick.” he whispered as he gently brushed her blonde hair away from her neck and before she could realize, two sharp fangs were buried into her skin. His hands were gripping her shoulders tightly as she felt a strong pressure on the place where his fangs were sunk.

She gasped for hair and widened her eyes. Involuntarily, she tilted her head back so he could have more space. It was strange because she couldn’t feel any pain. She felt a sudden wave of electricity and pleasure that she could not understand.

Her father’s apprentice was drinking her blood. So…he was a vampire? That explained why he wasn’t sleeping and his appearance. This damned council meetings explained his absences during the nights.

She started to feel pain as his grip on her was tightening more and more and her feet were trembling. She started to breath faster and heard her own heart beating violently. He sure knew when to stop, right?

“Roy, you’re killing her. Roy, stop! ” The friendlier guy said as he pulled him away from her. She felt a sharp pain in her neck as the cool air of the night made her come back to her senses. He didn’t look like the beautiful painting she knew. His eyes were glowing red as he was staring hungrily at her.

She felt weak, like that dominating gaze was crushing her. She felt sick realizing that blood was still flowing down her throat and that she was surrounded by hungry vampires. Roy’s crimson eyes turned to their original colour as he noticed her terrified expression.

He caught her right before she lost her consciousness and everything became dark.

[sariasprincy-writes]

Hollow Point 19

One // Two // Three // Four // Five // Six // Seven // Eight // Nine // Ten // Eleven // Twelve // Thirteen // Fourteen // Fifteen // Sixteen // Seventeen // Eighteen // Nineteen (here) 

Chapter Nineteen The blank edges of a map

Itachi wasn’t there when Sakura arrived. He hadn’t replied to her text two days ago, but she wasn’t too concerned. He had never disappointed her before.

She waited for him just inside the mouth of the alley, between the club and an old restaurant that had closed down some time ago. She was but a shadow, dressed in all black from her boots to her jeans and leather jacket as she leaned against the wall that separated her from the club. The music reverberated against her spine.

She didn’t have to wait long. Less than ten minutes later, Sakura heard the faint tap of footsteps down the opposite end of the alley. “You look nice,” Itachi said. “Is it my birthday?”

Sakura bit back her smirk as she looked up at him. He was dressed well in a pair of dark jeans and a dark blue button up shirt. He had rolled the sleeves up to his forearms. A mix of formal and casual wear. Good. She needed him to look his best tonight.

Pushing off the wall, Sakura stepped towards him, giving him a careful onceover. She straightened his collar a little and brushed his bangs out of his face before she smiled in return. “Feels like it’s my birthday.”

Itachi’s smile briefly widened before he peered out into the street where party-goers were all funneling towards the small entrance of the large building. “What are we doing here?”

“I need to have a talk with an old friend,” she told him, following his gaze. “You might know her. Here, she’s known as Sekhmet.”

“The Goddess of Power.”

Sakura nodded, somewhat surprised he recognized the name. “If there’s any movement of anything in or out of Egypt, she knows.”

“And you want to know more about that port in New York,” Itachi concluded. When she nodded, his brow furrowed. “So why do you need me here?”

“I can’t go in alone,” she told him. When Itachi shot her a questioning look, she sighed, “I…may have killed her brother.”

In an instant, all playfulness dropped from his expression. He shot her an incredulous look, as if still trying to figure out if she was completely or only mostly out of her mind. Not that she could entirely blame him. This was almost the dumbest thing she had ever done.

“It’s complicated,” Sakura said when Itachi continued looking at her like he was waiting for an explanation.

He huffed a humorless laugh through his nose. “And what makes you think you can walk in there without her killing you?”

Looking away from the crowd, she turned to face him fully. “You.”

Itachi’s brows furrowed. “Me?” he repeated.

She nodded, slipping her hands into the pockets of her jacket. “Temari only mostly hates me so I’ll at least be able to get one, maybe two words in before she goes for her gun. And she loves pretty boys.”

“So, I’m here to flirt with her,” he said, his voice flat.

“Don’t worry. She won’t do anything to you. Maybe.” When Itachi continued to just stare, she brushed a piece of invisible lint off his shirt with a small smile. “Just play along. You’re CIA. I figured you would be good as this by now.”

Itachi looked like he had more to say but she didn’t give him the chance as she finally moved forward to blend into the crowd. She didn’t have to look back to know he was following, feeling his hand wrap around the inside of her elbow so they didn’t get separated.

At the door, Sakura smiled at the bouncers and whispered the right words to get in. They eyed her skeptically but didn’t question her. Merely unhooked the red rope to let her and Itachi pass.  

Inside, the club was pounding. Literally. Heavy beats rattled her bones and made the floor quake beneath her feet. Bright, flashing lights flickered overhead, enticing those standing on the sidelines to join the party.

Normally, Sakura would have loved to get lost in the deep bass and the semi-darkness where no one knew her name. Now, it only made it harder to concentrate, harder to think.

With Itachi still on her arm, Sakura weaved through the throng of girls in short dresses. Many clung to guys with wandering eyes who didn’t even know their names. She stopped just outside the main dancefloor to gaze purposefully about the club.

Beside her, Itachi’s hand tightened on her arm. She glanced at him and followed his gaze to a group of men that were eyeing her. She ignored them.

“Don’t worry about them,” she told him. “These are just civilians.” Then she nodded towards a door upstairs in a tucked away corner of the room. “Up there is who we have to worry about.”

Over the pounding music, Itachi didn’t bother trying to reply. He merely followed her up the narrow, nearly invisible stairs in the back and down the hall where four large bouncers were guarding the door. They all wore black t-shirts, their biceps nearly bursting the stitching in the arms and their tattoos out on display for all to see.

The closest one barely took one look at her before turning to Itachi. “You and your lady friend are going the wrong way. Party is downstairs.”

Unfazed, Itachi jerked his chin towards the mass of bodies swaying on the dancefloor. “That’s not the type of party we’re looking for. Our tastes are for something a little more private. Perhaps Sekhmet has enough room for two more. Two more with money to spare.”

The man’s eyes narrowed at that name. He eyed the pair of them again and seemed to think before he looked back at his companions and nodded once. His silent permission that they were granted access.

Sakura briefly glanced at Itachi as they slipped through the door. He returned her stare with a faint smirk. He was better at this than she thought.

The guard closed the door behind them as they slipped into a hall, muting the loud music below. She and Itachi followed it until they reached a shimmering, silk curtain. Beyond it led to a large room. There was a dozen or so people in the room, the clinking of their crystal glasses and murmured conversation floating up into the high ceiling. More silk hung from above in shades of the richest purples and deepest reds. The rest of the space was accentuated in sparkling golds, the colors all blending together to give a warmth to the otherwise colorless room.

Towards the middle of the room, four pillars of marble stamped a wide square onto the white tiles. Just inside that, the floor sunk down where a chaise lounge sofa sat. That was where Temari lounged.

She sat like a queen of the ages with her blonde hair tied back, exposing her long neck and accentuating the gold, stringed head piece along her forehead and atop the crown of her head. Her eyeliner was winged and sharp, drawing attention to her almond-shaped eyes. She was dressed in long flowing, harem pants and a shirt of the smoothest silk, her feet bare and decorated with intricate henna.

On either side of her, Temari kept company with a pair of young boys. Likely barely twenty. Not that that was surprising. Sakura remembered the blonde always went for the younger ones.

Temari looked up when Itachi entered. She eyed him curiously, giving him a long onceover as a playful smile formed on her lips. It fell the instant she spotted Sakura a pace behind him.

Like a candle dying in the wind, all warmth drained from Temari’s features. She didn’t spare another word to the boys beside her as she rose from her throne of plush pillows. Her face was hard as she approached, her expression carved from stone. “You have some nerve showing up here.”

Sakura and Itachi stopped a pace from where the floor dropped down. “Temari, I-“

That was all Sakura got out before Temari’s fist connected with her face. The crack of her knuckles echoed throughout the room. Sakura grimaced but made no move to defend herself or retaliate. She had expected worse. Beside her, Itachi tensed but remained still as the rest of the room fell silent.

“Give me one reason why I shouldn’t shoot you where you stand,” Temari demanded.

Trying to hide how much her jaw ached, Sakura looked up at the blonde. It didn’t escape her notice the guards in the corners of the room had reached into the inside pockets of their tailored suits. Hands likely around concealed weapons.

“You and I both know I did everyone a favor by killing Gaara,” Sakura said unapologetically. “He was a terrorist. In every sense of the word.”

When Temari’s eyes narrowed, Sakura took a step forward before she could cock her fist again, closing the space between them until she could whisper just loud enough for Temari to hear. “Don’t forget that I was the one who stopped him from strangling you that night.”

The blonde didn’t immediately move, the both of them remembering that cold, winter night. Her wheezing, hollow gasps while Sakura pleaded with Gaara to release his only sister.

This time when Sakura met Temari’s gaze, the anger and hate was replaced with something painful, something she was unable to describe. “He was my brother,” Temari murmured so quietly Sakura nearly missed the hurt in her voice.

Sakura swallowed thickly, trying to push down the sudden knot of sympathy that had balled in her chest. “I know.”

The next time Temari blinked her vulnerability was gone and in its place was her usual, cool frostiness. “So, what are you doing here? It’s not like you to apologize for anything so you must want something from me.”

With the thick tension broken, the soft conversation on the outskirts of the room resumed. Sakura tried to hide her smile at Temari’s perception, tried to hide how much her jaw ached. If there was one thing she learned from Gaara, it was how to throw a punch.

“We need some information,” Itachi stepped forward, speaking for the first time.

Temari pulled her gaze from Sakura to study him. She said nothing for a long moment before she extended her hand to him. And just as Sakura had hoped, Itachi accepted it.

“Information on what exactly?” Temari asked.

She led him towards the lounge chair she had been resting on when they arrived, wordlessly waving the pair of boys away. They made themselves scarce without a word. With them gone, Temari made herself comfortable upon the cushions, ensuring Itachi seated himself close by.

“Shipments out of Cairo and into the States,” Itachi said, turning to face Temari completely. “Specifically, into New York City.”

It didn’t escape Sakura’s notice Temari had purposely left no room for her to join. She resisted the urge to sigh at her antics as she stopped beside them. Still standing.

Temari arched her brow at Itachi. “Shipments of what?”

“Guns, drugs, the usual,” he listed.

When the blonde hummed thoughtfully, Sakura added, “It looks like Akatsuki, but a reliable source doesn’t think so.”

Temari peered up at her, the gold in her hair sparkling. “I’ve heard of the port. A shipment left here a few weeks ago to head into New York. I had assumed it was you so I didn’t look at it too hard,” she said. Then her gaze returned to Itachi. “If you want more information, I can look into it and let you know what I find.”

Itachi smiled. “We would appreciate it.”

Temari returned his smile for one of her own before it fell with a glance at Sakura. “You know I require payment first.”

“If you can find out who is using the port in New York, I’ll pay you one hundred million pounds,” Sakura told her.

The blonde arched her brow in surprise at the high price, the question obvious on the tip of her tongue. In never came. Instead, she pretended to think. Her gaze studying Sakura before turning back to Itachi. The start of a cunning smile on her lips. “One hundred million pounds. And I get to keep pretty boy.”

Itachi turned to look at Sakura at that. She couldn’t help but smile as she read the look in his eyes. “Pretty boy is mine,” she said, redirecting her attention to Temari. “Take the money or leave it.”

The older woman eyed Itachi for a moment longer before she sighed. “Fine,” she waved him away. “Wire the money to me by tomorrow or there’s no deal.”

With their business concluded, Sakura left with Itachi in tow, much to the pout of Temari. They headed back out the way they came, weaving their way through the party-goers still dancing and drinking downstairs.

The fresh air outside was a welcomed relief from the sticky heat of the crowded club. Although heavy. Like rain was threatening to fall.

Sakura inhaled deeply, wincing when her jaw ached. She rubbed the sore spot briefly, her fingers pressing along the skin just enough to determine that she would in fact have a bruise. At least Temari had played nice. Mostly.

Itachi was already watching her when Sakura looked at him. She dropped her hand, realizing she was still massaging her abused face.

“I’m hungry,” Itachi said before she could speak. “We should get something to eat.”

And that was how Sakura found herself at some American diner on the corner. It was a few streets back from the more touristy areas and a little tucked away. At this hour, they were the only customers. The older crowd already retired to bed and the younger ones still drinking in the clubs.

They ordered nachos before the waitress collected their menus and disappeared into the back. Even alone, they didn’t speak. Itachi watched Sakura over his coffee mug. Her phone sat on the table between them. Face up but silent. Only the screen lighting up every so often to indicate she had a new message.

Each time, Itachi glanced at her. She didn't touch it. Instead her gaze lingered elsewhere. The streamers hanging from the ceiling of the restaurant as they spun slowly, the steam rising from his coffee mug, the fall of the rain outside as it dripped down the window. She stared at all these things with rapt attention. As if she saw some deeper meaning in the little things.

Itachi just watched her, her earlier words playing over in his head. ‘Pretty boy is mine.’ He knew she had meant it as a power play against Temari, but that single statement had stirred something deep in his chest.

It stirred again now as he observed her. Eyeing the way she ran the back of her fingers against her jaw. It had to ache from the force behind Temari’s blow, but Sakura didn’t show any signs of discomfort. She had acted like it hadn’t even hurt at the time.

It was some minutes before Sakura noticed his stare. She cocked her brow. The same look she always gave when she caught him staring.

“You haven't spoken since we left Temari's,” he said, finally breaking the silence.

She said nothing for a minute more as a frown settled over her features. She sank back against the back of the booth heavily. “Some dots are beginning to connect that worry me,” Sakura said quietly.

Itachi’s brow furrowed. “With Akatsuki?”

She nodded, crossing her arms loosely over her chest. “Our meeting with Kisame is making me think Akatsuki is growing faster than we think.”

“Because he didn’t know about the port in New York?” he asked. When she said nothing, Itachi frowned. “Are you certain that shipment was even Akatsuki’s and not another group? There’s more illegal product moving in and out of America than there has been in years. It’s possible someone else-”

“I saw the port myself,” Sakura interrupted, her tone not unkind but unyielding. “It’s Akatsuki. And the fact Kisame doesn’t know might mean he’s been compromised or Pein has another arms supplier.”

Itachi was quiet for a long moment as he considered her words, a deep frown etched into the corners of his mouth. It was a minute before he spoke again, “Let’s wait to see what Temari says before we jump to any conclusions.”

Over the table, Sakura met Itachi’s gaze. He seemed to be pleading with her, as if trying to convince her to give Kisame the benefit of the doubt. She supposed she didn’t have any proof of her claims yet. Only a churning in her stomach that made her uneasy.

Eventually she nodded. A small smile caressed the corner of Itachi’s mouth before it disappeared behind his coffee mug. Sakura studied him, finding that she liked watching him. Noticing the little things. Like the way his shoulders filled his shirt, how he held his coffee mug from the side and not the handle. How his expression changed minutely when he looked up again and caught her stare.

“What is it?” he asked.

She didn’t understand his question until she realized her smile had dwindled into a frown. “There’s something else,” she began slowly. “Do you remember the payments Shisui found? The ones Hashirama was providing Madara.”

“You found out what the payments are for.”

Sakura inclined her head. “Hashirama is paying Madara to watch me.”

Itachi stilled, his gaze briefly flickering out the window as if he expected to find some shadow staring back at them across the street. “You don’t think he knows about us?”

“No. If he did, he would have taken me out by now,” she told him, unfazed by the thought. “I think Hashirama is expecting me to turn against him though.”

“Why would he think that?”

“Probably because I came to work for him as a favor from my adopted mother. And she loathes him.”

A look of confusion passed Itachi’s face as Sakura rested her chin on her palm. She could still recall the arguments they used to get into. At least she assumed they were. She could only hear Tsunade’s side of the conversation, but the hushed, angry whispers and abrupt ends led her to believe that things between her mother and Hashirama had slowly deteriorated over time.

“She never told me much about their relationship,” Sakura continued. “But I think Hashirama started shorting her on payments. I think that’s why Tsunade finally cut ties with him and left me in charge so she could move on.”

“So that’s where you got the name Tsunade from,” Itachi murmured. When Sakura shot him a puzzled look, he explained, “There’s not a lot known about you, even with Mossad and the CIA after you. We know that you were born in the States and raised in Israel, but other than that your file is pretty much full of guessed information. For a while, many of us believed you were multiple people. I guess we were half-right in that regard.”

Sakura drank from her water glass as she considered Itachi. Caught with the sudden urge to tell him more but not wanting to give too much away. She thought about her next words carefully. “I was born in the States, but I was moved to Russia before I turned one,” she told him. “I stayed there until I was six when Hashirama found me and brought me to his niece, Tsunade.”

“Your adopted mother,” Itachi said, connecting the dots. “So, she took you and raised you.”

“More like trained me,” Sakura corrected. “She was less nurturing and more interested in teaching me her trade. How to conceal a weapon, how to steal. How to lie.”

Itachi frowned, like he was pitying her. She half expected him to apologize for her poor childhood. To her relief, he didn’t, “You have the widest range of connections of any criminal I’ve ever tracked. You must have moved around a lot.”

Warmth flushed through Sakura at his compliment. She tried to push it away as she drank from her water glass. Instead recalling all the homes, all the cities they had jumped around. Never staying in one place for too long. Just long enough to establish contacts or create connections before moving on.

Itachi sipped his coffee as he considered what she had just told him. When he lowered it, he eyed her again. “Is Sakura even your real name?”

Sakura didn’t immediately reply. Not because she didn’t want to tell him, but because she didn’t know for certain herself. She had never known her birth name – or if she had even been given one. She knew they had called her something else in that cold orphanage, but that name had long since faded from her memory.

In the end, Sakura merely shrugged. “It’s the one I like.”

Their food arrived after that. They talked about insignificant things as they picked through the large pile of nachos for the perfect chip. She couldn’t help her smile when Itachi peeled off his jalapenos and nearly horded the little cups of sour cream and guacamole their waitress had provided. Sakura let him, not too picky with what she ate.

By the time they finished, the little diner was closing for the night. The waitress locked the door behind them and turned the outside light off, casting them into semi-darkness. She and Itachi paused under the front awning, observing the rain that fell just beyond.

It was a few blocks to her hotel. Sakura would undoubtedly be soaked by the time she got there. Perhaps she should have checked the weather before she left, but Temari had been her only thought when she had slipped out earlier that evening.

When Sakura turned back to Itachi, she saw he was already watching her. That same look in his eyes she recognized but still couldn’t quite place. She frowned. “Why do you look at me like that?”

He was quiet a moment. Then said, “Because I like the way you look at the world.”

“As a tool to be used?” she asked sarcastically, trying to distract from the way her heart was suddenly thumping in her chest.

Itachi merely shook his head, the start of a smile tugged on the corner of his lips. “As something to be looked at.”

Sakura held his gaze for a moment before she looked away, feeling her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She fidgeted with her jacket, pulling her collar tighter around her neck and drawing the zipper higher. When her face cooled, she looked back at Itachi only to find he was still smiling.

She frowned in defense. “Are you flirting with me, Agent Uchiha?”

“Would you be so opposed to it?” he asked in return.

For some reason that made her pause. For she could recall saying the very same thing to him those months ago. The only difference now was she got the feeling he wasn’t completely teasing.

She swallowed, suddenly unsure how to respond.

Itachi saved her from her own embarrassment by taking a single step back, a knowing look entering his gaze. “I’ll be in touch. Have a good night, Sakura,” he murmured, her name rolling off his tongue like it had a million times before.

Then he stepped out into the rain and walked away.

Sakura watched him without moving, feeling hot and cold all over. It wasn’t until he was disappeared around the corner that a glare fell over her features.

Damn, Uchiha. He certainly was better at this game than she thought.

to be continued…

[dontreadthistrashgarbage]

Pt. 6

Guerin got a call at her desk halfway through a project she was working on for HEET. Groaning at the interruption since she knew it would take a while to get her focus back, she took a moment to exhale before answering. "This is Go Guerin."

"Guerin it's Han Jisoo. I need you to come to my office right now."

"Yes, I'm on my way." She said cheerfully before hanging up. Leaving her hand on the phone she stared at it for a moment. "I'm getting fired." She said outloud. Her entire life any time a higher up had asked to see her in their office she immediately assumed the worst. Her stomach churned as she tried to calm herself down, then she stood up, stuck her cell phone in her pocket and left to see the CEO of her company.

She knocked gently on the door and peered in to see Jisoo, who looked up and gestured her in. The room also had a PR manager, the company lawyer and HR. [Yeah this is either about the case or I'm being fired.] She stepped inside and bowed, greeting everyone politely.

"You're not being fired." Jisoo, the CEO quipped.

"Oh thank god." Guerin exhaled, her hand going to her heart as tension left her body.

"I've known you for a long time Guerin. Things have been rough lately and we're working on it. You're an excellent worker and overall an asset to our company, and you're a very good friend." Jisoo said, smiling, though Guerin caught the strain on her face and the serious expression everyone else wore.

"Thank you, I love my job and I want to do well at it. I like this company and how it is run." Guerin bowed with gratitude before sitting down as Jisoo gestured. She looked curiously around.

"All that being said, just like we were worried about you've been targeted again by rumors." Jisoo frowned. Guerin's heart sank, she had just started getting back to her normal mood. What happened now?

The PR manager, Jaemyun showed a printed out article from dispatch, "This was published online about fifteen minutes ago." She informed Guerin, who leaned forward curiously. Her mouth dropped open as she read the headline and stayed open the rest of the article.

"WOW OF A.C.E CAUGHT ON A DATE WITH CONTROVERSIAL FOREIGNER MANAGER OF HEET"

The article was punctuated by a picture of Seyoon and Guerin sitting in the cab, smiling, and another of Guerin getting out and leaning over to say goodbye.

"As you are aware, if you are dating a celebrity we need to know so we can react appropriately." Mina, the lawyer, spoke up.

"Yes of course I know! Which is why you haven't heard anything. We're not dating! We're friends! A bunch of us went out for karaoke and drinks last night and Seyoon rode with me to make sure I got home safely after drinking." She felt embarrassed admitting she had gotten drunk the night before in a professional setting, but she knew in this instance complete honesty was important.

"I figured it was something like that." Jisoo sighed and rubbed her temples. "We've contacted Beat Interactive. They're on their way with Seyoon now so we can talk about how to best handle this. Let's relocate to the conference room."

Guerin's phone was vibrating like crazy while she waited with everyone for Seyoon and his company to come. Charlie and HEET had gotten wind of the scandal as well as some other acquaintances. She only responded to The first two with assurances that she was okay and everything was getting straightened out now before putting her phone on silent and putting it back into her pocket.

It didn't take long for Seyoon, Minseok, Beat Interactives own legal and PR team as well as the CEO Kim Hyeim herself to come in. Everyone stood and bowed, greeting each other appropriately before settling in to discussions.

"Go Guerin has already informed us that they were not on a date." Jaemyun started.

"Kim Seyoon confirmed that, he said they met with a group and he made sure she got home safe as a friend." Started the other PR manager.

Seyoon tilted his head slightly and raised his hand, "Excuse me, but that's not exactly what I said."

For a moment everyone looked at him before Hyeim finally spoke up, "Is there something you want to clarify further?"

"Ah... yes. I said we did meet with a group of friends and it wasn't a date, and that I did excort her home. But it wasn't as a friend." He seemed to have finished talking despite everyone staring at him in need of more information. A few people glanced at Guerin but she was just as lost and put her hands up defensively, unable to withhold an awkward laugh.

"Kim Seyoon, please excuse us but could you explain what you mean by that." Jisoo requested in a polite but stressed voice.

"I like Guerin." He said simply, looking at Jisoo, before his eyes went to Guerin who stared back at him in shock, hands over her mouth, "I've been meeting her as a friend but also with the intention of developing a relationship eventually."

Guerin let out another awkward laugh through her fingers, eyes wide as she ran her hands through her hair in shock before stopping at her neck. Blinking rapidly she tried to center her thoughts.

"I'm guessing this is news to you." Mina stated with a sigh.

"Yea- yes. This is not what I expected." Guerin corrected her formality, sitting up and trying to look professional again.

"I'm sorry, I didn't want it to come out this way." Seyoon said, still watching Guerin's reaction with his unreadable expression. He finally broke his stare and glanced around making it clear the apology was also intended for the rest of the people in the meeting.

"That complicates things." Jisoo frowned and looked at Hyeim, "What is your company policy on dating?" Everyone got filled in on the rules, Seyoon looking back to Guerin who was now chewing her lip thoughtfully. He smiled at her again and she couldn't help sending a smaller smile back to him.

"Go Guerin." Jaemyun brought her back to reality, "If you two are dating we'll need to-" she stopped talking to see Seyoon had raised his hand to politely interrupt again.

"I'm sorry, but we aren't dating. Guerin has only just heard of my intentions and she has not responded." Seyoon smiled as though unaware of the tension. Hyeim put her face in her hands and Jisoo coughed as they both tried to hide what might have been a chuckle.

"I see." Jaemyun nodded slowly, "Go Guerin, are you planning on responding to Kim Seyoon soon or should we write a statement without one?"

"I'm- I'm so sorry." Guerin looked around at everyone, "I've just been taken by surprise. I don't know what to say. And the talk I need to have is... a private one with Kim Seyoon." She finished the sentence hyper aware of how inappropriate it sounded, but relied on the others to understand.

"Why don't we get started on the first part while you two talk? There's some other details we need to address as well regarding Guerin's current legal issues." The Beat Interactive lawyer said. Guerin started as though he had slapped her in the face. Of course that would be a problem now, the case hadn't been resolved so her reputation was controversial and could affect all of A.C.E. Recovering she stood and bowed, then followed Seyoon out.

He turned to her just outside the door but she moved past him, grabbing his sleeve and leading him to a smaller unoccupied meeting room. Closing the door she let out an exhale and leaned against it, eyes shut for a moment as she recuperated. Blinking her eyes open she met Seyoon's gaze and couldn't help but laugh, shoving him slightly.

"What the hell Seyoon?!"

"I was gonna talk to you tonight but, it seemed like a bad idea to hide that." He shrugged.

"I mean yeah, can you imagine if they said we were just friends for that to change in what a week? A month? That would have sucked." Guerin agreed.

"So, if it would have changed," he took a step toward her, taking her words literally, "Does that mean they have?"

"I- I mean." She stammered then put her hand on his chest to stop his approach. "You're distracting me!" Guerin complained. His smile grew, narrowing his eyes mischeviously.

"So you find me distracting?" He wiggled his eyebrows and bit his lip bit didnt advance any closer.

"Yeah of course!" She couldn't hide it, "You're too damn sweet and cute and weird and handsome. You're fun and you keep me on my toes but you also are so genuinely supportive and kind, aaaaaaahhh." She groaned covering her face with her hands again. He reached for her wrists and took her hands in his, holding them both between them. She sighed hopelessly at him.

"You said you acted without thinking last night. I thought you meant that it was a mistake."

"Ah... I meant that I wasn't thinking because I just wanted to be in contact with you." He swung her hands in his lightly as though showing her what he meant, "But I didnt want to say it over text."

"I was actually disappointed." She admitted with a laugh.

"Does that mean you like me too?" He wiggled his shoulders at her and made her chuckle. Guerin peered into his eyes pensively, her heart beating rapidly.

"... yeah. I do. Of course I do."

He pulled her toward him, wrapping her arms around himself before hugging her tightly back. She stepped into it willingly, as she rested her chin on his shoulder and his body against hers, in her arms, it felt surreal. She had idly wondered what embracing him would feel like and now it was happening. But reality brought her back to her senses. Remembering the biggest obstacle, she reluctantly pulled away from him. He was still grinning but it faded slightly at her expression of regret.

"Seyoonie, even if I like you I don't know that we should date..." she started.

He tilted his head inquiringly, waiting for her to continue, "Your lawyer mentioned my case... I have a really bad reputation right now. It's already risky enough when an idol dates but... someone like me? A foreigner with rumors of attacking a fan? How would that affect A.C.E? Your whole career?" She trailed off again, not knowing what to say next.

Seyoon looked pensive and nodded slowly before speaking, "I love being a singer. It's my dream and I don't want to lose that."

"I know, and no one is worth giving that up for!" She agreed quickly.

"We know you're innocent. That's going to be revealed soon." He nodded along with his own reasoning, "And I'm going to get married someday. So I might as well begin with someone I like."

Guerin laughed loudly at his self satisfied expression with his simple logic, "You're too cute, it's killing me."

"Noonaaaa don't die yet." He poked his own cheek as he pouted, "We haven't even kissed yet."

"You little." She failed to look stern and tapped his lips lightly with her hand. He responded by wiggling closer to her. Getting swept up she chose to meet his challenge, moving forward she pecked him suddenly on the lips, then ducked away.

"Hey, wait I wasnt ready!" He called out surprised and reached out to grab her. She spun his arm and turned him so she was facing him and he was up against the wall as she smirked at him in his surprise before he licked his lips and gave a naughty smile.

"Okay, so get ready again." She moved her hands to his torso and leaned in again, eyes fluttering closed. He leaned in the rest of the way to kiss her lingering for a few seconds before they both begrudgingly separated.

"So... we should find out what our bosses have to say. About us..." she felt disheveled suddenly, straightening her clothes and running her hands through her hair. He watched her with a smile before taking her hand again.

"First, you have to tell me." He said.

"Tell you what?" She asked.

"You have to tell me you like me."

"I already did! And then I showed you." She winked then laughed in embarrassment.

"No, you only agreed with me." He glanced up, "and then you showed me." He nodded and looked back at her, "But I want to hear the words."

"Youuuu..." she trailed off, her heart unable to handle this giant baby.

"Noona. Go Guerin! I like you. Do you like me?" He said earnestly.

"Hmmmm..." she teased him, but couldnt Deny him for long, "Seyoonie. I like you." She stated.

"Perfect, now theres no question." He beamed, "you should give me a piggyback ride back to the conference room."

"Absolutely not. Any other time I'm game but we have enough trouble right now." She laughed at his feigned disappointment and snuck him a kiss on the cheek, "have that to keep you happy until after work today." She left for the door and he trotted along after her once he recovered.

The rest of the meeting was a lot of talking, phone calls, more talking, a lot of stress all punctuated by Guerin and Seyoon sneaking glances at each other and trying to not look too pleased due to the stress levels of everyone else involved. Ultimately it was decided that Beat Interactive would announce that while the two were not dating at the time the photos had been taken, they had begun dating recently and hadn't had a chance to confirm before the article was released. In the meantime, PWER, the company Guerin worked for, had gotten clearance from the police department for some details of the case while the police department worked on their own statement since the investigation had been concluded. No one was convinced that it was an ideal scenario but they hoped with everything coming together it could minimize this particular PR nightmare.

"I never should have let you meet them." Minseok complained to Guerin as they trailed out.

"I didn't start this!" Guerin responded defensively, "Besides its not my fault I'm irresistible."

Minseok groaned as Seyoon smiled and held Guerins sleeve for a moment. She glanced at him and slowed a step as he pulled gently backwards.

"Can we still meet after my practice tonight?" He asked quietly so others around wouldn't hear.

"I don't see why not, I was planning to anyway." Guerin said.

He looked around to see if the hallway was clear before sneaking a kiss to her cheek, then speeding past her to catch up with Minseok, his dangerous smile back in place.

"Guerin?" Jisoo looked back suddenly from ahead of everyone, "Will you meet me in my office after I see our guests out?" She asked.

Guerin nodded and when it was appropriate ducked away to Jisoo's office, certain she was getting fired as per her usual anxieties, but also logically knew it wouldnt be likely at this point.

While waiting for Jisoo she pulled out her phone to catch up on her blown up messages.

Han Jisoo returned before Guerin could text HEET through Woojin's phone. The two went into the CEO's office and as soon as the door closed, Jisoo spun on her friend and began smacking her in the arm repeatedly.

"Hey, you're my boss now you're not allowed to do that!" Guerin said in English, laughing and cringing away but otherwise letting it happen.

"You are such a problem sometimes aaah!" Jisoo responded with a final smack, also in english. "And this is how I'm supposed to find out one of my best friends is dating?? And an idol no less!"

"To be fair, I also just found out the same way which is, arguably, worse." Guerin rubbed her eyebrow subconsciously. "None of this even feels real."

"Well it is and now it's my mess to help clean up." Jisoo crossed her arms. Guerin looked at the ground guiltily causing Jisoo to sigh, uncross her arms and hug her friend, "I know it's not your fault. It's just an unfortunate pain in the ass."

"Guerin laughed and hugged Jisoo back, picking her up for a moment, "It's so cute when you swear in English!"

"Hey. Boss. Remember?" Jisoo protested disingenuously.

"It's payback for hitting me."

Jisoo tsked and changed the subject, "Mina is going to come here to talk you through how we're handling the court case since you'll need to testify. But first I wanted to make sure you're okay."

"I honestly havent processed most of today yet so I'm not sure. I was starting to be okay again and I think right now I'm okay too?" Jisoo nodded, knowing her friend had more to add and waited, "I was also wondering... how does this affect me working with HEET again...?"

Jisoo looked serious, "As of right now you not being manager is only temporary. We do need to see how things shake out but nothing has changed. Hopefully with the resolution of this case things will work out."

Guerin nodded in understanding. Jisoo had been friends with Guerin before she had even moved to South Korea as they had met in the states where Jisoo attended school and done internships at record companies around the world to broaden her knowledge of the industry. It helped her family was very well off and able to help her start her own company once she had returned. At that time Guerin was nearing the end of teaching English when Jisoo offered her a job. Guerin would forever be grateful for her friend and knew she had her best interests at heart.

"Jisoo, thanks for sticking with me. I'll fo my best." She said in Korean, it just seemed more genuine.

Jisoo was spared a heart warming response as Mina arrived.

The men of A.C.E were called into a meeting once Hyeim and Seyoon returned from their meeting with PWER. The four other members had an inkling of what it would be about given they too had seen the Dispatch article. Jun had texted Charlie who hadn't had much more information than he did at the time. Once everyone was seated, papers with the statement were passed out but Kim Hyeim talked before they could read it.

"On those papers your holding we have written a statement concerning Kim Seyoon and Go Guerin dating. We've agreed to let PWER and the police handle the statements regarding Go Guerin's legal case. Hopefully with her proven innocence and releasing of actual footage of what happened we won't get much extra blowback to an already risky announcement. Also you should know that as of this afternoon Go Guerin and Kim Seyoon have expressed an interest in dating and going forward they would like to be up front and honest about it."

The expressions on everyone's face changed wildly as she spoke, except for Seyoon who maintained his normal unreadable face, watching her despite the others looking around at each other.

"Wait." Chan started, "So it's TRUE?"

"It wasn't last night but apparently it is now." Kim Hyeim said with a crooked smile.

"Since when did you-?" Jun sputtered and stopped, "So...." the king of reactions lived up to his name as every thought raced through his brain.

"Good for you Wow!" Byeongkwan fist bumped his hyung.

"It's not how I expected you to go for it but it works." Donghun said, patting his friend on the shoulder.

"I didn't even know you felt that way about her?" Chan added, still shocked but smiling along, "Wait, what does that mean for-" he started and the boys swung their gaze to Jun.

Hyeim watched this curiously, "Park Junhee is there something wrong?"

"I wanted to tell you today but..." he trailed off for a moment, "Ah... I also confessed to a woman last night and she might be my girlfriend soon."

Kim Hyeim was frozen, then rested her face in her hands for a moment before looking up to Minseok who appeared just as shocked as she was, "Maybe we should rescind the idea that they can date." She said dryly.

"I'm so sorry I didn't know this was happening. I thought they were friends I didn't think they were their type!" Minseok said in a rush.

"What does that mean?" Jun asked with a hint of aggression as he and Seyoon snapped their faces toward their manager.

"I just meant they're foreigners and I just, i thought you each had a different type and with them being older and Guerin is a lot... they're really good people I'm sorry I'm just shocked." Minseok tried to explain.

Hyeim interrupted, sensing an argument and not wanting to deal with that on top of everything else. "Minseok will chat with me later." She shot him a look, also displeased with his judgment toward women and he bowed his head at the visual scolding, "What we need to figure out now is how we're going to handle the second announcement. I'll get someone from PR to meet with me, Park Junhee and his girlfriend. Until then we'll go through with what we planned for Kim Seyoon since with that article we do not have the luxury of time to discuss things."

She looked at all the boys, "I expect this to have an impact on the fanbase. We've just wrapped up promoting but maybe we can work on a special project for Choice to communicate with them. Think it over and let's start something soon."

The meeting was dismissed and Minseok hung back to talk to Hyeim as the boys meandered back to their practice room.

Guerin waited outside the door to the dance room as HEET wrapped up their practice inside. When their dance instructor left Guerin put a finger to her lips and winked so as not to give away the surprise. She was holding bags of fried chicken and iced coffee for the boys. The dance instructor smiled back and moved on without a word. Peaking around the corner she snuck in while the boys were straightening up or sitting on the ground catching their breath.

"Special delivery!" Guerin announced loudly, holding up the bags of goods. Byoungjin, Minhwan and Seungbin all startled at her sudden appearance, but once all five saw her they hopped up and ran over. Gabriel relieved her of her bags with Minhwan as Seungbin hugged her, Byoungjin held back with Tobio for his turn. Once they had all gotten their hugs in (Guerin had to guilt trip Gabriel and interrupt him setting up for the meal) they settled down to eat with Woojin.

"Woojin told me when your lesson ended and I asked him to let me bring you all food." Guerin explained, handing Seungbin and Gabriel next to her some extra chicken, "Are you boys being nice to him?" They all nodded through bulging cheeks.

"They've been working very hard." Woojin added with a small smile. He seemed the quiet accommodating type so Guerin was happy to hear the boys had seemed to accept him.

"I'm glad." She beamed at HEET as they dug in. "I don't know if you guys have heard anything but I wanted to stop by because I have some news."

"Are you gonna be our manager again!?" Gabriel called out through a full mouth.

"No, dummy. It's probably about the dispatch article." Tobio retorted and he shoved Gabriel away as he leaned into his Japanese teammate smacking his mouth annoyingly loud.

"Tobio is right. It's about the article." Guerin interrupted their bickering.

"Were you really on a date with Wow-hyung?" Minhwan asked, stunned.

"Well, no. We all met as a group of friends and he was making sure I got home safe." Despite telling the truth Guerin felt guilty so she moved on quickly, "But this afternoon after the article came out... while we were discussing how to address it... Seyoonie did confess."

The boys erupted, even shy Woojin reacted with surprise while Seungbin had leapt up, "I KNEW IT! NOONA I KNEW IT WHEN I SAW YOU AFTER THE ZOO!"

Gabriel was downright crowing in excitement as Byoungjin sat in shocked silence and Minhwan clapped excitedly. Only Tobio kept his head enough to ask "But what did you say?"

The boys all quieted again at his question. Guerin felt her face get warm as she responded, "Well he's my boyfriend now." The boys all erupted again, alternating between shocked and happy. Guerin waited for them to calm down before speaking again.

"I double checked with Han Jisoo and she said it so far hasn't meant I can't come back as your manager. But we still need to wait to clear the court case and we will need to see how the public reacts to the statement that we are now in a relationship."

Minhwan frowned, "So if a bunch of people decide to hate you, you won't be our manager?"

Guerin paused, "If it means you aren't safe. And we don't want to hurt your image." The boys looked crushed, "Your debut was strong, and you've all trained so long and so hard for this. I won't let something like my personal life ruin your futures." She added firmly.

"Noona..." Seungbin snuggled up to her and she put her arm around him, "They can't hate you right?"

Guerin wanted to comfort them, looking at all five faces of HEET- even empathetic Woojin seemed sad - but she wouldn't mislead them, "It's unlikely it'll come to that. We'll just wait and see and keep working hard okay? All of us."

Gabriel sulked, "Seungbin-ah was right. Seyoon-hyung was going to steal you from us."

"I understand that's how it looks, but I promise that wasn't the intention. Please don't hold it against him." She squeezed Seungbin and looked at all of them, "I love you all dearly and even if I'm not your manager I'm still working for PWER and we can see each other often like we have been. But my goal is to come back as your manager okay? I haven't forgotten you." The boys nodded quietly.

"Come on, let's finish eating." She encouraged them, changing the subject, "You also need to show me your new dance so far, I heard it's very challenging!"

Before long the seven of them had settled back into cheerful chatter about what HEET was working on next.

[btsjfans]

Our Song (pt 6)

Summary: School playboy, and jock Jungkook is the last person you’d expect to be a soulful musician, but everybody has their secrets

Jungkook x Reader (fluff, angst, smut next chapter)

a/n: ahhh thank you for all the requests, getting requests and feedback about my stories literally makes my life I love you all so freaking much ALSO SORRY IT TAKES ME LIKE 50 YEARS TO POST OMFG

masterlist

part 1   2   3   4   5 

“Y/n L/n IT IS 2:17AM DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA--” Your mother screams, pacing in the kitchen, while your dad scowls beside her. You sit at the dinner table, numbly listening to their tirade. You’re still half asleep, and tired from earlier. 

You’d fallen asleep at Jungkook’s earlier that night, and woken up when he’d rolled over in his sleep, and flopped on top of you. In the moment it was funny, until you read the clock that glowed “2:10am” in ominous white lettering. 

“JUNGKOOK I-AGDHGDJ” You’d screamed, pushing him off and springing from the bed. He sat up, hair sticking up in all directions as you hopped around his room, desperately tugging your jeans on. 

“What?” His voice was deep and grumbly as he rubbed his eyes and tried to process the situation. His eyes finally settled on the clock, and he gasped and dashed out the door, “MEET ME IN THE CAR!!!” He screamed, scrambling for the keys. 

The two of you hit 70 in a 25, managing to get you home by 2:15, saving about 8 minutes on your usual drive time. You kissed him one more time before getting out of the car, trying to savor one last good moment before you met your bitter end. “I love you forever Y/n,” He smiles, stress evident in his tense body. 

“I love you forever too Jungkook.” You sighed, facing the house, having accepted your impending doom. The second the door had closed behind you, the lights came on and the screaming began.

By 2:45 your parents decided they had enough and sent you swiftly to bed, but not before taking your phone and sentencing you to 2 weeks of being grounded. 

You lied in bed, emotionally drained as you stared at the ceiling. But even then, you couldn’t help but smile. You really did love him. 

From: My Mans :)

Saturday, 2:30am

Y/n??

Y/n is everything okay???

Im so sorry 

I really am I didnt mean for time to get away from us like that

Ughhhhhh Y/n please dont be mad

Please dont be mad

Ok uhhhh text me tomorrow ig. I love you

Sunday, 10:11am

Y/n really Im getting worried

Pls tell me this is a prank? AHAHAh im laughing

2:45pm

I showed you my dick pls reply

Y/N 

4:41pm

goddddd

Y/n i really love youuuuu

Knock knock

Whos there?

NOT YOU APPARENTLY SJHDGSJFAHKSAHJ

6:18pm

ok so

I guess youre mad?

Annnnd idk what I did so I cant say sorry

BUT if you tell me what I did wrong I can apologize

sooooo

uGAUKHSFGHJ Y/N

See 216 More Messages?

You grin scrolling through your messages. It was 7:45am on a monday, and you’d just gotten your phone back. You’d spent the weekend without electronics, and with plenty of housework. You still had two weeks of house arrest, but you would get to see your friends at school, and keep your phone, so things were already looking up. Your parents didn’t know you lost your v-card, so they didn’t really have anything against Jungkook except for him keeping you out too late. 

To: My Mans :)

7:48- Come get meeeeee :P

Within 2 minutes of sending that text Jungkook replies, making you laugh.

From: My Mans :)

7:56- Oh my god are you kidding me I text you all day every day all weekend and this is all I get back? No heartfelt message? Am I just a rockin bod and a cool car to you? Damn, you thotties really be cold

7:57- Omw

“What the fuuuuck,” Jungkook whines pulling you in by the hips and kissing you, pressing you against him. 

“Sorry, my parents took my phone.” You grin, ruffling his hair and getting in the car. 

“God I thought I was bad in bed or something, you really did a number on my insecurity this weekend,” He grins, taking the car out of park. 

Walking through school felt different now. You felt dirty and exposed. You felt like everybody knew what you did that weekend. Walking down the halls hand in hand with Jungkook, you usually got some stares, but now it felt like all eyes were on you. Jungkook seemed fine, unbothered even. As he should of course, and as you should too. You just couldn’t shake that unsettled feeling though. 

Eventually that feeling left, and a feeling of pride took its place. You were his girl, the person he decided was worthy enough to be his first. Telling your friends really gassed you up. 

“Y/N YOU WHAT?!” Lisa was screaming. You guys were between classes and you couldn’t really think of a good time to tell them, so you figured now was as good as any. “You got dicked down? Like all the way down?!” Lisa whispered, eyes wide.  “Yeah! Do you guys hate me?” You grin nervously.

“No! Just don’t ditch us for booty calls,” Jisoo grins and nudges you. The three of you laugh while you give them details as you walk to your next class. You’re caught up in the story before somebody runs into you, jolting you from your thoughts. You look back in annoyance to see who the perpetrator was. Mark Tuan just hurries off, ignoring you. “Hey, ignore him. You’re Jeon Jungkook’s squeeze now, we have more important things to think about.” Jisoo laughs, grabbing your arm and tugging you down the hallway.

Mark

Jungkook was still a part of our group I guess. Bam and Taehyung jumped on the chance to talk to him again after things had been tense the last few weeks. Jungkook texted them and asked if we could all hang after lacrosse, so of course that meant I had to wait after school til 5 for them. 

Roaming the empty halls I scroll through instagram, trying to occupy my headspace. I really had been enjoying my guy time recently, but I can’t lie, I do miss my time with Y/n. After school hot chocolate and homework had become a fixture in my life, like she had been. It felt like there was a big empty hole where she used to be, in my house and in my head. 

“Mr. Tuan,” Mr. Atkinson’s voice rips me from  my thoughts. 

“Yes sir?” I turn, pocketing my phone.

“Wanna take a walk?” Atkinson approaches, not really giving me a choice. We both walk in silence for a minute or so, our footsteps echoing down the halls. “Have you been alright recently? You and Y/n don’t talk anymore, and you’ve fallen in with a..lesser crowd.” His voice is light, but I can hear the more serious tone beneath.

“Yeah, people just..grow apart.” I shrug, shoving my hands in my pockets.

“Yeah but you and y/n didn’t. Or at least she didn’t. I know there’s more. Now, I don’t expect you wanting to talk to your washed up teacher about your personal life, but you should talk to her. Or someone.” He’s right. I sigh, nodding. 

“What do I say?” My voice is quiet, ashamed.

“It never hurts to start with sorry.” 

You lay on your bed, scrolling through your phone on a break from homework. Your break had already taken 2 hours, oops. Suddenly a picture of Mark doing a double chin fills up your home screen while your phone buzzes, signaling a call from your old friend. It had been a hot minute since you’d gotten a call from him; it had been a hot minute since you’d gotten any kind of formality from him in general. 

“Hello?” You slowly hit the green button.

“I’m sorry Y/n. Can we talk?”

[inifitywar]

she is perfection //james march

pairing: james march x mute!reader 

word count: 2324

warnings: self-deprecation, low self-esteem, mention of cheating, sexual assault, swearing, mention of alcohol, light choking, physical violence, angst. 

a/n: this is a collab with the lovely @ahswitchy. our parts are separated by a simple insert line, starting with her. we hope you enjoy! x

i took one last place in the mirror before nodding my head to myself and spinning on my heels to leave mine and james’ shared room.

the dress i was wearing was pretty simple. plain, black fabric with long sleeves, the skirt resting by knees length. on my feet, just flats. even though my friends liz and elizabeth would try their best to persuade me into wearing more fancy and revealing outfits, i simply couldn't. catching people attention had always made me feel anxious, and the thought of so many eyes staring right at me made me feel sick to my stomach. 

that would be my first time joining devils night. at first i didnt want to go. but, still, james insisted so much that i ended up just accepting it. he’d always done everything for me, so why couldn't i? 

knowing i stil had 20 minutes or so left until devil’s night actually began, i decided to make my way to the bar, knowing liz would hound me later if she didn’t get to see me all dressed up. anytime i wear anything dressier than jeans and a sweatshirt liz practically coos over me because, “sweetie, with just a little lipstick and some heels, you could just about sweep any man off his feet.”

making my way through the halls, i turn a corner to find james and elizabeth. quickly, i duck behind one of the walls, hoping i wasn’t seen.

you see, despite james loving me no matter what i wear, he especially adores when i get dressed up, even if it is just with a simple dress. knowing this, i informed him that we would meet at the dinner instead of just going together, wanting to surprise him so i could see him get all flustered. unsurprisingly, he refused, insisting that we greet the guests together, with me by his side. but he also knew that he was already walking on thin ice, considering that i had barely agreed to attend in the first place, so he reluctantly complied. 

although james would never admit to getting flustered around me, i still see it. when his voice gets caught in his throat and his eyes drag up my body to meet mine. but of course, he never lets his composure fall for more than a moment before he’s already gathered himself and greeted me with a compliment that would make any woman blush. although those moments are quick, the look we share says that we both know it won’t be long before my dress and his trousers are tossed upon the carpet. 

dragging my attention back to the two, i let out a sigh relief, praising whatever higher power there is that they hadn’t spotted me. more importantly, that james hadn’t spotted me. elizabeth seeing me wasn’t really a concern. given, she’s wasn't exactly the lover i was trying to woo. 

watching them quietly, which is a routine i seem to have mastered. no doubt, owing it all to the time i’ve spent toward perfecting my body language and movement, as they are the focal points to my communication. 

seeing james and elizabeth together had never bothered me much, for elizabeth has always been one of my closest friends in the hotel and i knew she wasn’t interested in james. and don’t get me wrong, i wasn’t second guessing her intentions now, but i couldn’t help but feel something in the pit of my stomach as i watched them. 

i wasn’t close enough to hear the two but i could see them just fine. james was already dressed for devil’s night, he switched out his usual formal attire for something a bit darker and more crisp. he looked utterly handsome, even more so than usual, which is saying a lot. 

elizabeth was adorned in one of her many stunning gowns. i couldn’t help but glance back down at my dress and compare the two. sure, my dress was simple, but i had thought it was elegant. but looking at elizabeth’s gown was starting to make me second guess my choice of attire. i mean hell, she wasn’t even trying. she wore prada on her lazy days and here i was, thinking i went all out, wearing a plain black dress and flats to james’ most important event of the year. even james was taken with her gown, or rather, what was underneath. 

an unfaithful man was something james would never be, i knew this as a fact. but that didn’t stop his eyes from roaming about her figure. i could see elizabeth roll her eyes at him, clearly uninterested, confirming what i already knew to be true. 

they continued to talk and although i couldn’t hear them, i had no doubt her voice sounded like honey. i mean, the woman could quote a book about politics and still make it sound sexy. how is that even possible? 

taking a deep breath, i leaned back against the wall, letting myself slide down until i was finally just sitting. thoughts filled my mind, some were of betrayal, but mostly just insecurity. my thoughts of betrayal were immediately followed by thoughts of guilt. after all, it wasn’t like he actually cheated on me or did anything wrong. all he did was look at her, and how could he not? she was alluring in every aspect, the way she looked, the way she smelled, the way she moved, the way she felt, the way she talked. she was, in theory, his perfect match. 

“dearest? what are you doing on the floor in a dress?” 

suddenly, my thoughts froze as i noticed james’ black dress shoes planted in front of me. 

i could feel my cheeks burning at the awkward sensation of getting caught in such a...humiliating position.

“darling, how come you are not ready yet? the guests are about to arrive, and you are still not dressed properly!” james mumbled as he reached a hand out to me.

i felt my heart drop as his words roamed about my mind, replaying over and over again in a cruel, twisted form.

how come you are not ready yet?  

i thought i looked better than usual, but my temporary self-love had been crushed into pieces and now everything was scattered all over the floor. my feelings. my heart.

my gaze remained locked on his shoes as the unshed tears started to fill my (y/e/c) eyes.

“dearest?” james called again and gently touched my arms, frowning when i flinched away from his touch. “what is this nonsense!?”

he sunk his fingers in my skin and forcefully pulled me up so i was properly standing in front of him with my back pressed against the wall.

“now now, head right back to our suite and change into some lavishing, elegant dress.” he smiled and pointed his chin towards the countess. “perhaps, you might wish to use elizabeth as a reference.”

i felt my breath hitching, as if i was drowning myself in a damned mix of feelings. bitterness, hatred, sadness, jealousy…my body reacted as soon as my husband had finished his sentence.

my muscles tensed under his touch and the tears drifted down my cheeks like an overflowing sink. james’ eyes got wide as he tried to understand the situation, for he seemed lost. and that's probably what had hurt the most.

he just didn't know he'd said something hurtful…

james leaned forward and hugged me tightly, resting his chin on top of my head. my lips contorted in anger, and almost instantly, i brought my fists to his chest, frantically shoving him away from me, my hands colliding with his aimed wall of muscles.

he backed off, startled, his head slightly cracked to the side.

“my de-” as he tried to approach me again, i lifted one hand to stop him, which worked.

“fuck you.” my hands trembled in emotion as i signed.

james furrowed his eyebrows and straightened his broad shoulders. before he could say anything to protest, i started to sign again.

“take your queen with you, then.” i pointed my index finger at the countess, who held her chest as she witnessed our fight. “i am not good enough for you, anyway.”

i pushed him out of the way and scrambled out of the lobby with my face hid behind my hand. i quickly got into the elevator, instantly pressing the button to my floor.

before the golden doors were closed, i could hear the conversation between james and elizabeth…

“you fucked up, james. you really did. she was actually already ready. she just wanted to hear a compliment from you. you should hear yourself...what you said to lovely (y/n) was mean.”

“oh my goodness...what have I done?”

---

i stumbled out of the elevator into the dimly-lit hallways of the sixth floor, the tears staining my eyes turning my vision blurry, as my body shook with the cry emerging from my soul.

i brought my small arms to wrap around my pathetic frame out of instinct, as i suddenly felt the cold hitting me.

suddenly, i felt a large hand grasping my bicep and pulling me into a big wall of muscles. i gasped out of shock, my eyes unconsciously shooting up to meet bright blue orbs.

john lowe.

i could tell he was drunk by the way his eyelids were hanging slightly, and a little smirk was plastered across his lips. unconsciously, i tried to pull my arm away, but his grip was too tight.

“why are you crying, [Y/N]? has someone hurt you?” john reached his free hand to hold my other arm.  

i hung my head and shut my eyes. he shook me slightly to get my attention, making my heart race.

“it's nothing.” I sheepishly signed, hoping it'd convince him.

john shook his head and pulled me into his arms, tightly wrapping his arms around my waist. i tried to squirm away, but he simply put more strength into the embrace.

“shhh, don't waste your energy, [Y/N]. i gotcha, and i won't be letting you go…” john’s voice had gained an incredibly dark tone all of the sudden, which caused the hairs on the back of my neck to raise. “you are upset because james keeps chasing after his former slut.” i gulped, trying my best to hold back the tears, that i am positive he knew i was holding. “hmm?” he tucked a lock of my hair behind my ear. “you're hot, [Y/N]. you being mute...it kinda turns me on, you know?” a single tear had slipped down my cheek. “it means I can do whatever I want with you…”

right after he finished his sentence, he turned on his heels and shoved me, causing me to trip and hit my back against the hallway red wall, ripping a gasp out of me. john was quick to pin me there by grabbing my throat.

“you squeak, huh?” he whispered in my ear, seeming unfazed by my countless attempts at kicking him or shoving him off. “it’s not beautiful when they squeak, [Y/N]...”

when i tried to kick him again, he looped his arms underneath my thighs and lifted me up, wrapping my legs around his waist. the tears were now dropping freely from my [y/e/c] as he forcefully grinded his clothed bulge against me, placing disgusting sloppy kisses on my neck.

his hands were everywhere...

and i knew, that no matter how many showers i took after that, they'd never be enough to wash away all of the remnants of john lowe’s putrid.

“fuck…” he grunted as he dug his filthy nails in my breasts.

he was implacable. he was like a wild animal, yielding to the profane and animalistic carnal desire, which was only being increased by the absinthe running through his veins, intoxicating his system.

though john was not the most ferocious predator…

i gasped in surprise when he was suddenly yanked away from me. i wrapped my arms around myself as i stared at my savior.

it was james…

“ja-” john started, but he was cut off by my husband’s fist colliding with his jaw. john instantly brought his hand to hold the spot.

“what was this nonsense!?” james practically howled, his shoulders tense, his jaw clenched, his face red...john was in a lot of trouble. before he could answer, james grabbed the collar of his jacket and slammed him against the wall.

“you. shall. never. put. your. disgusting. hands. on. my. wife. ever. again.” with each bitter word, james gave john a punch on the face. by the time he was done, the detective was lying unconscious on the floor.  

james punched the wall in front of him, still completely outraged, causing me to flinch. i forced myself to walk towards him, because suddenly all of the rage i held towards him had melted. hesitantly, i placed my hand on his broad shoulder, giving it a slight squeeze to catch his attention.

as he let his gaze wander down my baffled frame, his eyes softened.

“darling, forgive m-”

i pressed my index finger against his lips before he could finish his sentence. i wrapped my arms around his waist, pressing my cheek against his chest. james didn't hesitate to hug me back. i cling to him, digging my nails into the black fabric of his suit.

“dearest, i am taking you back to our suite,” he whispered as he stroked my hair.

to his surprise, i shook my head and pulled away. heading towards john’s limp body, my lips trembled as i took in his defeated form. i shot james a quick glance over my shoulder. my eyes had acquired a sinister darker shade.

i turned on my heels so i was facing my husband.

“i need rope.” i coldly signed. “and a sledgehammer, please.”  

as his brain processed what was roaming my mind, a devious smirk broke through his face. clearing his throat, james bounced on his heels with his head slightly cracked to the side.

“splendid, darling! splendid!”

[yokina-hoshi]

rain // izuku x tsuyu (( COMPLETED!! ))

"Get home safely Midoriya!"

"C ya Deku!"

"Ugh, See you guys on Monday!"

Today, Izuku Midoriya had decided to take a different way home than he normally would. This route was different. It was prettier and scenic, and Izuku felt as if he needed to get some things of his chest. Most of all, he needed time to put his worries to bed.

He stepped out of the school, head down in deep thought, gripping the straps of his signature yellow bag tighter. The farther he walked, the deeper his thoughts and steps went. By the time he was passing the station, he had already forgotten how many steps he had taken. His brows furrowed as a train track blocked his steps. The gates were down as the train past by. It blew past him, green hair swaying in the wind, leaves dancing across the cloud stricken evening sky. e

He was worried about school (as usual)

He was worried about All Might (as usual)

Although, there was one thing on his mind that was rather unusual. Izuku was worried about Tsuyu. Tsuyu had seemed really upset about something the past few days, it was hard not to notice since Izuku was so observant. One of the small things that he had noticed was that Tsuyu had started avoiding Ochako for some reason, and they were normally seen together as they were the best of friends. Izuku thought that Ochako would have noticed it by now, but she claimed that she only thought Tsuyu was spending some 'time away'. He had also noticed Tsuyu slip out of the classroom several times at lunch break when Mina and Tooru where raging on about something fun and spectacular, and she would normally walk out with a face of boredom. Though it is a very well known fact that the frog had (most of the time) a fixed expression, but Izuku could recognise the hesitation in her eyes. Sometimes, Izuku would end up looking for her, and in the end finding Tsuyu dozing off on one of the benches somewhere around the school. Most of the time, she would either wake up or he had to wait for her, seeming as if it was his duty to bring her back to the classroom on time.

The thing that worried Izuku the most was her sudden change in honorifics. She would normally go around calling him 'Midoriya-chan' but that had changed for the past week, and she started being more formal and calling him 'Midoriya-san' or just leaving honorifics out completely. Izuku was clearly shocked by this, and he really wanted to know what was going on so he could help her out in any way possible.

He mentally sighed. 'guess I have to go talk to her... I hope she wont mind.'

'plip'.

A drop of cold water cascaded down from his forehead, making him look up to the sky.

'plip. plip. plip.'

slowly but surely, the sky started to grow dark with electric blue clouds, letting out a slow drizzle of rain.

"A-Ah!! Its raining!!"

'good thing I brought an umbrella. Thanks mom!'

Izuku pulled out a folded, plain looking, see through umbrella from his yellow backpack, extending it and hovering it underneath the rain drops above him. The ground underneath him grew dry as the glass like droplet fell from the hood of his umbrella.

Izuku's pace got quicker the faster the rain fell. though the rain was intense, the skies were still clear and bright, which was a rare phenomenon for the green haired boy to be experiencing.

Izuku walked past houses by the river. He walked past vending machines full of hot and cold drinks alike. He walked past the setting sun. Though, nothing could compare to who he saw along the way.

His eyes widened as he stumbled across an open grassy plain.

A certain green haired girl was sitting in the middle of the plain, shimmering droplets of rain cascading down her bow tied hair. Her head was shifted upwards, taking in the embrace of the cold rain.

Izuku stood there for a while, not knowing how to react. Though the rain was cold, he could feel his cheeks heat up. His heart rate began to grow faster. Not often would he feel this way about someone. Though, he never really knew what love meant.

He started to hesitate over his next actions, debating silently in his head if he should approach Tsuyu or let her be. He tightened his grip on his umbrella and took a deep breath, stepping forward.

'All I know is that Tsuyu is in need of someone, someone who can help her. Someone who can stand by her side and listen to everything she has to say. I can be that someone!'

Izuku slowly paced forward, making sure not to startle Tsuyu. She seemed like she was at peace, he didnt want to disturb that peace.

Taking one more breath, Izuku softly placed his hand on top of Tsuyu's shoulder. The said girl seemed a little shocked, rapidly turning around to catch a glimpse of the person who had confronted her.

"Midoriya?"

Izuku flashed a sheepish smile, lowering his umbrella down to hover it over her head. His jacket slowly became soaked by the bitter rain, but he didn't mind. As long as Tsuyu doesn't catch a cold, he doesnt care. He always was reckless after all.

Tsuyu's eyes widened at the situation before her, rain droplets slowly making its way down the sides of her face. She turned her head to look down, expression full of thought.

"Why- why are you here?"

Tsuyu's previous remark had caught Izuku by surprise, shocked by Tsuyu's sudden reserved manner. Normally the teal haired girl would openly say whatever was on her mind, no double takes. He frowned a bit and slowly moved over to Tsuyu's side, sitting down next to her in the cold evergreen grass. He slowly loosened the grip on his umbrella, resting it against his soaked shoulder still covering the two of them from the calm rain.

Izuku looked at her again, this time giving her a knowing smile. He knew how hard it was to open up about feelings. This time he received a different reaction, one that was longing.

"Midoriya, you know I always say what's on my mind."

Izuku just simply nodded, more water falling from his abnormally curly green hair. Tsuyu slowly placed her hand on top of Izuku's scarred one, causing him to flinch a little.

She sighed, refusing to meet with Izuku's eyes. The next thing she said was completely unexpected.

"Izuku-chan, I think I like you."

The said boy just sat there, staring into Tsuyu's large eyes, letting what she said sink into him. His eyes widened as he realized what she meant, quickly recoiling in a huge blush, causing the umbrella to fall from his shoulder exposing the two to the rain.

His shocked face completely contrasted tsuyu's calm and collected face. She wasn't afraid anymore. She didnt want these unwanted feelings to eat at her heart anymore. She would face these problems head on, just as she always did. Tsuyu Asui loved Izuku 'deku' Midoriya.

Izuku didn't know what to say, nor what to do. He wanted to help Tsuyu out, yet love was something he was rather unfarmiliar with. Sighing, he tried to reply.

"I-I d-dont kn-now what t-to say..."

Tsuyu carried on staring at izuku in a relaxed manner, urging him to tell her the truth. After some thought, Izuku knew what to say.

He moved his free hand over tsuyu's, looking into her eyes underneath the cold rain.

"I... I'm not sure if I can return your feelings tsuyu-"

"Thats ok. Thats fine."

Izuku looked on in confusion, mentally scolding himself for saying something wrong.

All tsuyu did was give izuku one of the warmest smiles she has ever gave, and slowly started to stand up. She walked away slowly, Izuku watching.

"its alright if you can't say the same."

And with that she walked away.

Yet she stopped.

She felt the warm embrace of a hand holding, telling her to come back. Shocked, she turned around to meet its owner.

"Tsuyu pleasd don't leave. I didn't mean it in that way... I meant, maybe, just maybe, I could learn how to return your feelings."

Her eyes widened a bit, not expected that answer. After a while, she smiled. She understood now.

Izuku may not be an expert on romantic feelings, yet he knew that deep down, he admired the girl in front of him greatly. He didn't know why, he couldnt answer how. All he knew is that he wanted to take this opportunity.

Out of sheer delight, tsuyu jumped at Izuku, hugging him. Izuku could feel the nervousness bubble inside him, but thats fine. He began to enjoy this feeling. He slowly hugged her back, still trying to get used to these new feelings.

Without warning, tsuyu kissed izuku on the cheek, leaving him as a blushing mess. He quickly let go of tsuyu, bringing his scarred hands up to his red face. All she could do was laugh.

"I- I think... I really like you Tsuyu. I re-really do."

Giggilling, she moved over from her spot in the wet flowers to rest her forehead on his own, smiling.

"Me too."

They stayed like that for a while, blue flowers dancing in the cold wind.

*

*

*

×bonus!×

Izuku nervously took tsuyu's hand in his, flustered. The two stood in front of the polished brown doors of 1-A. Today was the day they were going to reveal their relationship to the class. Nervously blushing, they slowly walked in, hand in hand.

[shewritesforgod]

Six "Must-Read" Short Stories

1. A Rose for Emily

It was written by the American author William Faullkner and was first published in 1930. It starts with the tale of a rich single woman, Emily, who is a mysterious recluse, frequently thought about but little-seen, living alone in a big home, rarely socializing. An old black woman is her only friend. Emily fails to have a street address when the position is first established in the community and refuses to pay taxes; a former mayor has formally released her of her tax obligations, but younger officials want to impose them. Occasionally, those who walk by her house see her on the ground floor, and she seems to have sealed up the top deck, but for certain, nothing else can be told. The protagonist is a part of the citys council, one of many suspicious people who come to snoop as Emily passes away. In the funeral-goers, the old black worker, now very dead, lets softly and then leaves. The stuffy, moldy, grand old house is visited by the writer and other officials and a single upstairs door is closed. Forcing the entrance, they discover inside a bedroom that looks like a gentlemans occupants, with discarded suits, a hairbrush, cufflinks spread out to be put on, but all corroded by time and coated in a dust film. The story kind of reflects how people perceive happiness. Some wanted to relieve every moment that made them happy to somehow feel that kind of emotion again. Sometimes we felt like the things that made us happy are also the things that make our lives worth living. Emily cannot be blame for she just wants to be loved and feel contentment. At the end of the day, letting go and accepting what is present would still be based on our decisions. It is only ourselves that could decide what will really give us genuine happiness.

2. The Cask of Amontillado

It is about a man make revenge on a friend who, he believes, has insulted him. The storys narrator, Montresor, tells an unspecified person, who knows him very well, of the day he took his revenge on his friend, Fortunato. Because of numerous insults and injuries. Montresor plots to murder his friend during Carnival, while the man is drunk and unconscious. Montresor tells Fortunato he has obtained some rare vintage Amontillado wine and lures him into a private wine-tasting excursion. Montresor brings the drunk Fortunato into his family catacombs. He chains Fortunato to a wall deep in the catacombs, then bricks up the opening. Fortunato screams for release, but Montresor only mocks him. Fortunatos body remains undiscovered for fifty years. The story is told by Montressors lips, the murderer who seeks revenge in the near future. From this angle, I appreciated how Poe and many of his others approached this research. To achieve his goals, the reader gets to see how the killer is thought, preparing, and organizing. Nevertheless, the more credible source is not Montressor. Although I believe hes frank with his actions and thoughts, he never addresses how he doesnt really seem to want to keep up with his challenge once hes trapped his buddy fully. We can see some of Montressors reluctance in paying back Fortunato, but it never emerges from the conscious thoughts of Montressor. The in-depth look at the reflections of Montressor helps connect the reader with the uncertainty about the future of Fortunato

3. Hills Like White Elephant

It is about a man and woman drinking beer while they are waiting for a train in a train station in Spain. The man is attempting to convince the woman to get an abortion. The man tries to to reassure the woman that the procedure is safe and promise that hell be right beside her the whole time, and it is the only solution to their problems. The girl tries using the things around her and the landscape on the other side of the tracks as a metaphor for the life they could have as a family. The man still pretends to be supportive, and tells that he really wants abortion, until the girl commands him to stop talking. Momentarily silenced, the two drink their last beer before the American carries their bags to the platform in preparation for the train soon on its way. Ernest Hemingways short story Hills Like White Elephants explores the polemical issue of abortion through a wandering young couples character development. Even though the word abortion is not mentioned anywhere in the novel, Hemingways strong use of atmosphere and meaning is irrefutably known. Originally, the narrator known only as the American exploits the meeker and soft-spoken Jig before she utilizes her feminine guiles to outwit him. The use of sarcastic sarcasm, subtle conversational style and verbal intelligence by Jig demonstrates her dominance over her male partner. Going further into the White Hills meaning, one can picture the hills reflecting the womb of a pregnant woman in a metaphorical way. On the other side of the valley, the hills are situated that can only be seen from a distance. The reflection of the remote hills may suggest that the girl finds it a distressing choice between the dry country and the hills. The dry land with the guy is also an abortion, and the hills imply conception, leaving the man. Its also clear that the guy never sees the slopes. He ignores the idea that it is impossible to choose abortion. Finally, the white color in this tale symbolizes the purity of the unborn child.

4. God Sees the Truth, But Waits

The story revolves around a man who was sent to prison for a murder he didnt commit. It implies a general theme in lined with faith and biblical message about what you need to do when the world is up against you. Ivan Aksionov is falsely accused and got imprisoned for 26 years for a crime he did not commit but he still puts his trust in God and still surrender everything and what will happen in His hands. The main character, Aksionov, was innocent in his prison life. What I like most about is that in every circumstance he has faced, he chooses to pray. Putting him in jail renders him godly. He didnt try to run, either. I might tell that Semyonich, deep inside him, lived his free life with remorse. In the first place, I believe Semyonich wants to kill Aksionov because hes jealous of being wealthy. I love the story like that. The occurrences are obvious from the very beginning of the story as well. The title means that, from the very beginning of every case, God knows everything that happens, but he is waiting for the right time to reveal the truth of what actually happened. We just have to wait for the right time to realize what God is actually doing for us. The intentions are not to harm us, but to educate us about lifes ideals. I was born as a Catholic not to keep hate in my bones, but only love and forgiveness. While it is valid that a person cannot step forward unless he / she forgives, in this tale I cant help but feel the injustice of life. It seems that only God can know the truth, it is to him alone we must appeal, and from him alone expect mercy. The only thing we can do in the midst of suffering caused by evil is to appeal to the mercy of God and believe that God knows and is in our suffering with us. The suffering of God with his people in Jesus Christ on the cross is one of the great truths and great mysteries of Christianity.

5. A Father

It is about a father, Musatov, who is blessed to have a kind hearted and dedicated children. Musatov is a drunkard and always asking money from his sons, and these sons always lend him with what he asked. His children indulge their father, Musatov, continually, even though he doesnt deserve it. Anton Chekhov (1860-1904) was a Russian novelist and playwright, regarded by many as one of the best short story writers in literature history. Chekhov was also a successful doctor, but his true passion was to write. He was quoted as saying Medicine is my wife and my life is literature. A tragic parent, Old Musatov, is fortunate to have children that are very committed. Musatov is a drunkard who continually asks for money from his family, which they offer him over and over again. Musatov expresses drunkly to one of his daughters, Boris, the gratitude and admiration he experiences for all his children, while at the same time admitting his own shortcomings. The children tend to indulge their dad. This short story simply shows how a father loves his children unconditionally despite of him being an alcoholic and imperfect as a father. This could give the readers a realization that it is not only our mothers that we appreciate more but we must also show appreciation to our fathers as well because at the end of the day they are still the ones thatll protect us at all costs, we will still run back to them if we get and hurt and they are also our number one fan.

6. The Handsomest Drowned Man in the World

It is about the changes brought by a dead man on an entire village. It implies the lesson of how a great person used his power to change others, to inspire them to be better, to make them want be the person theyve always dreamed of. The Handsomest Drowned Man in the World frequently examines one dead mans transformative effect on a community as a whole. This claim that a really nice person can change people, motivate them to be different, make them want to be exceptional. It is important that the change of the villager originates completely from within in this novel. After all, the dying man is dead, which ensures that the people are themselves accountable for the changes they make.

[en64]

Cat and Mouse | Lucio x Original female character | 18+ Chapter 5

((Shameless dress up scene?? Also see the bottom of the chapter for notes!!))

A few hours remained before Pashmina had to fetch dinner for the Count, and she planned to spend time in her room journaling. She wanted to write down every detail of her adventurous day so that she would remember it forever. She imagined one day far into the future, telling her grandchildren about the day she, a lowly servant, had tea with the Count and Countess! It had certainly been an eventful day. As she began to descend the stairs a person rushing up them smacked into her, knocking both of them to the ground. "Oof!" Pashmina cried as she landed square on her ass. "Oh dear me, I'm so sorry, I-" the other person was Philip, who looked the happiest Pashmina had ever seen him at the sight of her. "Just the person I wanted to see!" He said, grabbing her arm and hauling her to her feet. "The Count has requested your presence at dinner this evening." He said, leading her back up the stairs. "Yes I know, we're going the wrong way! I know I am to fetch him dinner.. Honestly Phillip are you feeling well?" Pashmina tried to shake his grip on her and he made an exasperated noise. "I assure you I am quite well. He did not request that you bring dinner he requested that you be present, as in have dinner, with him. And he requested you be properly dressed for it as well, so we have no time to waste! Heaven knows it's going to take hours just to scrub the grime off of you.." Pashmina allowed herself to be led through the palace as she was feeling too dazed to protest. She supposed she hit her head when she fell and was currently in a dream. Phillip led Pashmina to one of the palaces many guest apartments. It was almost as lavish as the Counts own room. The bed was shaped like a swan with a canopy of white chiffon delicately draped over it. White fur rugs, a mirror decorated with gold roses, a wardrobe big enough to be a room in its own right. Pashmina had no time to take it all in before she was swiftly ushered into the bathroom. A bath was already drawn, the scent of roses filling the bathroom. Three servants whom Pashmina had never seen before were waiting patiently beside the bath. "Ladies I expect her to be positively spotless by the time the Count receives her." He said before leaving. "Um.. You really don't have to help me, I can bathe myself.." Pashmina said shyly and one of the women approached her, gently putting her hands on Pashmina's shoulders. "Come now, before the water goes cold." Pashmina had never had such a luxurious bath. Water was scarce in the servants quarters and often times they bathed together or went long periods without bathing. Having a bath all to herself, with hot water and perfumed soap was a new experience. While one of the servants washed Pashmina's hair she cupped a handful of bubbles and blew them, giggling to herself as she watched a few of them slowly float away, delicate as snowflakes. When the ladies (whom she learned were named Lilac, Lavender and Laurel) were satisfied with scrubbing years of dirt off of Pashmina's body and out of her hair they dried her off with a fluffy towel and set to work combing her hair. It took quite some time but eventually her hair was successfully detangled and arranged in a a series of beautiful braids down her back. Lilac helped her into a corset, bloomers and petticoat. Things Pashmina never had the displeasure of wearing before. They slipped a pair of silk stockings over her feet, stockings with no holes in them was a welcome change. The dress they helped her into was red, complimenting her brown skin and brunette hair perfectly. Lavender placed a ruby necklace around her neck and Laurel placed a pin of rubies and pearls into her hair. Pashmina barely recognized herself in the mirror, she looked like the type of person she would be serving rather than a servant herself. Pashmina walked to the folded pile of her old clothes and picked up her shawl, draping it back over her shoulders. "Come! The Count is waiting!" Lilac said cheerfully, linking her arm around Pashmina's and leading her out of the room. The ladies led Pashmina to a part of the palace she had never been to before, full of parlor rooms and pleasure rooms where nobles indulged themselves on opium and liquor, the sounds of loud music and laughter bellowed from almost every door they passed. Finally they reached the dining hall where the Count and Countess held formal diners with other important people. Dignitaries and diplomats the world over had come to this dining room to feast, and now Pashmina would as well. As they entered Pashmina saw the count sitting at one end of the table in a high-backed chair, the only other place set was the one directly to his right. He stood as she entered and she curtseyed, she was shocked when he returned her gesture with a bow. Lilac pulled the chair out for her and she sat down, looking anywhere but at Lucio. When all the servants left the room to fetch their refreshments, Pashmina sighed quietly. "I'm not sure if I'm comfortable with this." She said mouseishly. Lucio laughed. "Everyone deserves to be spoiled once in a while. I'm sure you've earned it." He said as a servant returned with two glasses and a bottle of wine. "Oh- I shouldn't, I had a glass today already." Pashmina tried to protest but the rich red color and aroma of the wine made her head swim. "I guess.. A small glass.." Pashmina had trouble hiding the upset look on her face and she was scared Lucio would think she was ungrateful. When the servant left again Lucio reached out and grabbed her hand. His grip was firm but his hand was warm, it made her relax slightly. "Please Pashmina, tell me what's wrong?" "It's just.. I do not doubt your generous intentions.. And I would never.. Slight your character my Lord-" "You may speak plainly." "I feel like you're trying to bribe me into being with you. I feel like you think my affections can be bought." She said.  Lucio frowned and looked down in shame. "I don't know how else to court someone. I don't know how affections can be won if not paid for. I wanted to please you." Pashmina squeezed his hand back "But.. I was happy just being around you, spending time around you today pleased me. You don't have to shower me in expensive things to win my friendship. I want to be your friend because you are kind to me." Lucio looked thoughtful for a moment, and he smiled sadly at her. "You say beautiful things, Pashmina." He released her hand as the servants brought out their food. Pashmina was overwhelmed with all the sights and smells, Lucio had ordered an entire roasted pig, so much bread and more kinds of cheese and fruit than Pashmina even knew existed. At first Pashmina was eager to try one of everything, until she realized something and began to cry. "Pashmina what's wrong? This is the second time I've made you cry today.." Lucio said, standing and placing his hands on her shoulders. "Its not your fault.. Its just.. I can't eat so much. I already ate so much at lunch and.. I'm not used to eating more than once a day.." As much as she wanted to taste everything, her stomach was definitely not accustomed to eating so often. "No.. That is my fault. The servants should eat better. I have been too selfish for far too long.." Lucio ordered the food be brought down to the cafeteria in the servants quarters. Pashmina was elated as she and Lucio made their way down as well. Upon seeing Lucio every servant snapped to attention, bowing and curtseying left and right. "At ease, my..friends." Lucio said, sounding unsure of himself "Tonight shall be a grand feast for all of you, courtesy of the beautiful Lady Pashmina" he said. Pashmina blushed deeply as the servants cheered. The sight of all of her friends and family sitting at the tables in the cafeteria, eating more food than most of them had ever seen in their lives made Pashmina tear up again. "Thank you, truly thank you so much." she said, losing her sense of professionalism and properness and allowing herself to hug Lucio. She wrapped her arms tightly around his middle and nuzzled her head against his chest. He wrapped his arms around her just as tight, feeling like a warm blanket encircling her. He rested his chin atop her head and began to pet her hair. "Pashmina." A sudden gruff voice made Pashmina jump and quickly push Lucio away. It was Micah, a dishwasher who had been vying for Pashmina's affections since she was twelve. He was far older than her and frankly made her extremely uncomfortable. "Oh. Hello Micah." She said. He looked from her to the Count and then grunted softly, offering the Count a brief bow. "Didnt know you were friends with the Count." He said flatly. Lucio wrapped his arm around Pashmina's shoulders. "We are recently acquainted. You're dismissed." Lucio said with a condescending edge to his voice. Micah scowled but dared not talk back to him, he slowly turned and slinked back from where he came. "Thank you." Pashmina said softly. "Who is he?" Lucio's tone had changed, sounding menacing and cruel. "He works in the kitchens.. He's been trying to win my hand since I arrived here." Lucio raised a brow. "I thought you said you arrived here when you were twelve?" He asked and Pashmina said nothing. Lucio began to guide her back up the stairs out of the basement, prying no further about Micah. Though Lucio was certain they would meet again, in fact he would make sure of it. "Would you like to return to my chambers and finish our bottle of wine?" He asked and Pashmina smiled. "Yes, that sounds lovely!" She said, thankful for the distraction. The two of them headed to Lucio's room arm in arm. When they entered Lucio ordered two servants to play a harpsichord and lyre for them. Another servant lit his fireplace and Lucio shrugged off his cape, tossing it carelessly behind him where another servant collected it and hurried to put it away. Pashmina wondered what it would feel like to be able to afford being so careless. Lucio kicked off his boots and plopped down on the sofa in front of the fireplace, beckoning for Pashmina to join him. Pashmina removed her shawl, a servant moved to help her but she shrugged them off and folded it herself. She slid off her shoes and placed them neatly aside. Before she sat down she suddenly began hiking up the voluminous skirts of the dress Lucio picked out for her. His eyes widened and he smirked lustfully, leaning back on the sofa as if he were watching something truly entertaining. "If I had known it were that easy to get under those skirts I would've-" he was cut short when Pashmina slid down the petticoat, tossing it aside and plopping down with a sigh of relief. "I hate that thing!" she said and Lucio burst into laughter. "You'll have trouble fitting in with the ladies of the court if you dislike such underpinnings. Though I must say I think I prefer you without them." "I'm sorry, I don't mean to be ungrateful. I've just never worn clothes like this.." Pashmina scooped up the rumpled petticoat and lay it down nicely. "I don't want to damage these nice things before I return them to you.." Lucio smiled at her "My dear Pashmina they are yours. Consider it extra payment for taking such good care of me today." Pashmina walked over but before she sat down again she took Lucio's cheeks in her hands and placed a gentle kiss against his forehead. "Thank you, Lucio." Lucio reached out to touch her but she moved away from him too quickly, sitting down at the other end of the sofa. Lucio had never felt such longing before, the feeling of constantly reaching for someone just out of reach, like a cat perpetually chasing a mouse. A servant poured them both a glass of wine and Pashmina was grateful for the drink, abandoning her earlier hesitation and wanting nothing more than to drink away her thoughts. About this day, about the Counts affections and everything else. Lucio certainly had a higher tolerance for alcohol than her, and two glasses later Pashmina was thoroughly drunk. Lucio told her funny stories about the people of the court and Pashmina had never laughed so loud, had never felt so carefree. She laughed until her stomach ached and she slumped over, leaning against Lucio. He idly put his arm around her, setting it on her waist. Pashmina in her drunken abandon tried her best to be seductive as she looked up at him. "Do you want to kiss me?" She whispered. "I won't bite this time.." Lucio placed a hand under her chin. "My sweet flower, I want to kiss every inch of you.." He said, but as Pashmina leaned in to kiss him he placed a finger to her lips. "And I will. The day you ask me that while you're sober."

((I love dress ups okay I hope that wasn’t too boring BUT hair // Dress // Necklace // Hair thingy // Plleaassee give me feedback am I still doing okay is this good am i doing a proper HELP))