#but also their dynamic everywhere is golden

[mssalo]

safety - Part: V 

Summary: After years of isolation, Joel Miller's life revolves around control and keeping danger at bay, his past as a soldier leaving him constantly on edge. But when a sweet, soft-spoken young woman starts working at the supply store, her innocence stirs something inside him. Despite his efforts to remain detached, Joel becomes obsessed with keeping her safe from the dangers he’s certain are lurking everywhere.

As his protective instincts morph into darker desires, the lines between safeguarding her and possessing her begin to blur.

Warnings will vary by chapter depending on the content.

Warnings: Dark!Joel, 18+ MDNI, Joel has major Trauma/PTSD, Mentions of war and combat-related trauma, Power dynamics, Unstable mental state,, Explicit sexual content, fingering in nature, rough sex in nature, praise kink, breeding kink, unprotected sex, Dom/sub dynamics, Joel’s possessiveness, sexual tension always, Joel went and got therapy :)

10k. Smut. Ending.

Enjoy!

Part I Part II Part III Part IV 

· · ───────────𖥸──────────· ··

The morning sun filtered through the thin curtains of the cabin, casting a soft golden hue over the room. Joel had been awake for hours, his mind running long before dawn.

It had been years since he’d slept that soundly, since his body allowed him even a moment of peace. His usual nightmares—filled with screams, gunfire, and failure—had been replaced by something softer last night.

His arm draped over your waist, keeping you close as if, even now, he feared you'd slip away. You stirred slightly, your body warm against his, and for a brief moment, he felt something he hadn’t in so long—relief. But that feeling quickly turned into guilt.

The events of the previous night replayed in his mind, each detail sharper than the last. The way he had dragged you out of the woods, convinced something was after you, how frantic and desperate he had been to lock you inside the cabin, to shield you from an imagined threat.

Joel’s eyes traced your peaceful expression, and a sense of possessiveness flared inside him.

Ever since he saw you—so trusting, so sweet, too naive for this world—something in him snapped. He couldn’t stand the idea of you out there, vulnerable. You had no idea of the real dangers lurking in the world, and that infuriated him.

But the anger had twisted into something darker, something he hadn’t fully understood until last night. His obsession with keeping you safe had grown into an all-consuming need.

You stirred beside him, your eyes slowly fluttering open, and Joel’s gaze softened. When your eyes met his, you smiled sleepily, unaware of the storm brewing behind his calm expression.

"Morning," you whispered, your voice thick with sleep, oblivious to the gravity of what had happened last night.

"Morning," Joel muttered, his voice rough. His hand tightened around your waist, fingers brushing over the soft skin of your side. You stretched slightly, yawning before nestling back into his arms, completely unaware of the tension radiating from him.

"I guess we’re safe after all, huh?" you mused softly, your innocent words hanging in the air.

Joel tensed, his jaw locking. You didn’t understand. You never would. You trusted too easily, believed in safety that didn’t exist. He wanted to snap, to shake you out of that naivety, but the softness in your eyes held him back.

"You don’t get it," he muttered, his voice laced with frustration. "I’ve seen what happens when you trust the wrong people. When you let your guard down for just a second."

You frowned, turning to face him more fully. There was confusion in your gaze, concern, but also an oblivious trust that Joel had come to both cherish and resent. "Joel, last night… you were so sure something bad was going to happen. I didn’t understand. I was—" You hesitated, chewing on your lip, unsure of whether to admit the truth. "I was scared."

His grip tightened at your confession, his eyes darkening with something you couldn’t quite name. "You don’t need to be scared of me," he growled, his voice raw. "I would never hurt you. But I can’t—" His breath hitched, his hand fisting the sheets. "I can’t lose you."

The desperation in his voice made your heart ache. You could see the fear behind his eyes, the fear of something deeper, something you couldn’t fully understand. But you had felt it last night. His need to protect you had been overwhelming, almost suffocating.

"Joel," you whispered, your voice soft, hesitant. "I trust you. I know you’d never hurt me. But last night… it wasn’t normal. You were so convinced something was out there. But there was nothing."

His body went rigid beside you, his jaw clenching as if he was trying to keep everything in. But you could see the cracks forming, the way his eyes flickered with memories he hadn’t told you about. And then, as if the dam finally broke, he spoke.

"There were these two girls," he muttered, his voice rough, strained. "Sarah and Ellie. Overseas, during the war. They were just kids… kids who trusted me."

You stayed silent, watching as his eyes clouded over with the weight of his memories.

"I was supposed to protect them. We were in a war zone, caught in the middle of a firefight. I told them to run. I thought I could get them out. But I didn’t see the sniper." His voice cracked, the guilt seeping into every word. "I didn’t see him, and… they didn’t make it."

Your heart twisted at the pain in his voice, at the way he carried the weight of their deaths as if it were his own fault. "Joel…"

"It was my call," he interrupted, his voice shaking. "I failed them, and now they’re gone because of me."

You reached out, your hand gently cupping his face, trying to pull him back from the darkness of his past. "You didn’t fail them. You were trying to save them. You can’t carry that alone."

But Joel shook his head, his eyes filled with so much anguish it made your chest ache. "I was supposed to protect them, and I didn’t. And now I’m afraid…" His voice dropped to a whisper, his grip on you tightening again. "I’m afraid I’ll fail you too."

You swallowed hard, the weight of his confession hanging heavy in the air. You didn’t know how to fix this, didn’t know how to ease the guilt that had been eating away at him for years. All you could do was be there, to remind him that he wasn’t alone.

"I’m here right now," you said softly, your voice trembling slightly. "I don’t know what’s going to happen, but I’m here."

For a long moment, Joel didn’t respond. He just held you, his body tense, his mind still lost in the past. But then, slowly, he nodded, his breath shaky as he pressed his forehead against yours.

"I’ll try to get help," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "I’ll try."

You smiled softly, brushing a thumb over his cheek. "You’ll get through this, Joel."

He didn’t respond, but the way his arms tightened around you told you everything you needed to know. He was still scared, still haunted by the ghosts of his past. But for now, you were there. And that was enough.

As the morning light grew brighter, the cabin was filled with a quiet kind of peace. You lay there in his arms, holding on to the fragile hope that maybe, just maybe, Joel could find his way through the darkness.

And for now, that was all you could ask for.

· · ────

As you and Joel made your way back to the campsite, the tension between you simmered just beneath the surface. His heavy footsteps matched your lighter ones as you trudged through the brush, but his presence seemed to envelop you.

There was something about the way he moved, always one step behind or beside you, that made you feel both safe and on edge.

Joel’s eyes kept darting from the treeline to you, his instincts always on high alert.

His protective nature wasn’t something new, but after last night—after everything—the intensity of it felt different.

You glanced over at him as you both reached the campsite, your heart sinking a little at the sight of the mess. Your tent was half-collapsed, your clothes and supplies scattered haphazardly.

Joel gave a grunt and immediately set to work, tying down the straps and packing up the gear. His movements were quick, efficient, but you could feel his eyes flicking toward you every few moments.

“I can help,” you said, reaching for the tent poles.

Joel’s hand shot out, gently but firmly grabbing your wrist and pulling it away from the sharp edges. His gaze locked with yours, dark and commanding.

“Let me handle the sharp tools, babygirl,” he murmured, his voice rough, gravelly.

The words sent a rush of heat straight through you, your cheeks flushing at the nickname. Babygirl. The way he said it—like you were something fragile, something that needed to be handled carefully—made you feel a strange mixture of annoyance and… excitement.

“Joel, I can handle a tent pole,” you argued softly, though the protest felt weak even to your own ears.

He didn’t back down, his grip on your wrist tightening just a bit. His lips curled into a half-smirk, his gaze flicking down your body before landing back on your face.

“I know you can handle a pole but `m not lettin’ you get hurt,” he said, his voice low, almost teasing. “You’re too goddamn precious for that.”

You swallowed hard, feeling the tension rise between you. There was something in the way he looked at you, like he was barely holding himself back.

His eyes lingered on you a little too long, dark and possessive, and you couldn’t help but feel like prey under his gaze.

With a quiet huff, you stepped back, letting Joel handle the rest of the packing. As you turned to grab your bag, your eyes fell on the spare clothes you had packed.

The heat of the day, mixed with the leftover tension from last night, made your skin feel sticky and uncomfortable. You glanced over at Joel, who was busy securing the last of your things onto his truck.

“I’m just gonna change real quick,” you called over your shoulder, grabbing your fresh clothes from your bag and slipping behind a nearby tree.

Joel didn’t say anything at first, but his eyes followed you as you moved, his jaw tightening when he saw you disappear behind the tree.

His body tensed, a wave of heat coursing through him as he pictured you undressing. The thought of you, soft and bare just out of sight, made his breath hitch.

He glanced down at himself, biting back a groan as he felt his cock stiffen in his jeans.

The image of you changing, pulling those jeans over your hips, slipping out of that old shirt—it made something dark coil inside him.

He was used to control, to keeping his emotions in check, but you were making it hard. Too damn hard.

Behind the tree, you quickly stripped off your dirty shirt, slipping into something clean and fresh. As you tugged your jeans up over your hips, you couldn’t help but feel Joel’s presence, even though he wasn’t directly in front of you.

His gaze, that possessive heat—it lingered, and you could feel it.

You barely had time to register the slip before Joel’s hands were on you, firm and unyielding, catching you before you hit the ground.

The rough bark of the tree dug into your back as he pressed you against it, his strong body flush with yours. You felt his breath hot against the side of your neck, his chest rising and falling, the grip he had on your waist almost too tight.

“Careful there, darlin’,” he murmured, his voice thick with amusement as his hand lingered on your hip. “Don’t need you hurtin’ yourself on account of some pants.”

You blinked up at him, startled by how fast he had closed the distance. His hand stayed on your waist, firm and warm, and you could feel the heat of his body pressing close to yours.

His eyes were darker than before, filled with something that made your pulse quicken. His gaze dropped to the bare skin of your waist, his thumb brushing over the exposed flesh as he let out a low hum.

“You’re gonna make it real hard for me to concentrate if you keep slippin’ outta those clothes, little girl,” Joel drawled, his lips curling into a smirk.

His hand drifted lower, teasing at the waistband of your jeans. “Not sure how much more I can take.”

You swallowed hard, your breath catching in your throat as you met his gaze. “I didn’t think you minded last night,” you said, your voice a little shaky as you adjusted your shirt.

Joel’s eyes flicked back to you, dark and hungry. “Didn’t mind at all,” he murmured, his voice low and gravelly.

His hands didn’t move immediately; they lingered, fingers splayed, and it sent a pulse of desire straight to your core.

“Fuck,” he muttered, his voice rough and gravelly, low like he was speaking more to himself than to you. “You’ve been drivin’ me fuckin’ crazy all morning.”

You blinked, trying to steady yourself, but the way he had you pinned made it impossible.

The hard look in his eyes as he stared down at you, the way his fingers dug into your skin like he couldn’t bring himself to let go… it was overwhelming. He didn’t move away, didn’t give you any space to breathe, to think.

“You have any idea what you do to me?” His voice was thick, dripping with frustration, but there was no mistaking the hunger behind it.

“Every damn time I look at you… can’t get you from last night outta my head. Got me hard just from watchin’ you.”

Your breath hitched at the rawness in his words, the heat in his eyes as they raked over your body.

Before you could even respond, his hand slipped lower, fingers trailing along the waistband of your jeans. His touch was deliberate, teasing, but there was no hiding the raw desire in the way he moved.

“Fuckin’ hell,” he growled under his breath, his fingers sliding over the button of your jeans, popping it open with a swift, practiced motion.

“I can’t wait any longer. You’ve been torturing me all morning, walkin’ around like that.”

You gasped as his hand slipped beneath the denim, his fingers finding your already slick heat. Joel’s eyes darkened when he felt how wet you were, a low growl rumbling in his chest.

“Jesus Christ, look at you,” he muttered, his voice rough as his fingers dipped between your folds.

“So fuckin’ wet already… you been thinkin’ about me too, haven’t you? Tell me, baby girl.”

His fingers pressed against your clit, rubbing slow, teasing circles that had your body arching toward him despite the tight grip he had on you. You whimpered softly, and that only seemed to spur him on, his touch growing more intense, more possessive.

“You like that, huh?” he growled, his voice thick with lust. “Like it when I touch you like this, when I make you feel like this.” His thumb pressed harder against your swollen bud, and you couldn’t stop the gasp that escaped your lips. “Fuckin’ knew it.”

His fingers slipped lower, one of them sliding inside you with ease, the wetness between your legs making it effortless.

He groaned low in his throat as he felt how tight you were around his finger, his breath coming out in heavy pants against your neck.

“Damn, you’re so tight,” he murmured, his voice rough with need. “You were made for me, baby girl. Fuck, just look at how you take my fingers.”

He added another finger, and the stretch made you cry out softly, your hands grabbing at his shoulders for support as your knees started to weaken.

Joel’s free hand gripped your hip even harder, holding you steady against him, making sure you couldn’t pull away even if you wanted to.

“Look at you,” he rasped, his breath hot against your ear. “Fuckin’ gorgeous, takin’ it so well… you’re so fuckin’ good for me, aren’t you?”

His fingers curled inside you, hitting that spot that made you see stars, and you moaned, your body arching into his hand.

Joel growled in response, his fingers moving faster now, thrusting in and out of you with a punishing rhythm.

“That’s it,” he muttered, his voice low and filthy. “You love it when I fuck you with my fingers, don’t you? So fuckin’ desperate for it.”

Your breath came out in ragged gasps, your body trembling with every stroke of his fingers.

He was relentless, not giving you a moment to catch your breath as his thumb continued to work your clit in slow, torturous circles.

“You’re gonna cum for me, aren’t you?” he growled, his voice thick with lust.

“I can feel it. I can fuckin’ feel you clenchin’ around me. Come on, baby girl, don’t hold back. I wanna feel you fall apart.”

His words, his touch, the roughness of his voice—it was all too much. You couldn’t hold on any longer. Your body tensed, and with a sharp cry, you came undone around his fingers, your walls clenching tight as the pleasure ripped through you. 

Joel didn’t stop. He kept thrusting his fingers into you, drawing out your orgasm, his breath heavy against your ear.

“That’s it, darlin’. Fuck, you’re squeezin’ me so tight. You feel that? You’re fuckin’ mine.”

Your legs trembled, barely able to hold you up as the aftershocks of your release pulsed through you. Joel finally slowed his movements, his fingers still buried deep inside you as you sagged against him, breathless and spent.

He pulled his hand from your jeans, his fingers glistening with your release as he looked down at you, his eyes dark and heavy-lidded with lust. “Fuckin’ perfect,” he muttered, his voice still rough as he brought his fingers to his lips, licking them clean with a satisfied growl. “You taste so fuckin’ sweet.”

You were still trembling, leaning against him for support as he finally released his grip on your waist. But the look in his eyes, the heat still simmering there, told you he wasn’t finished. Not by a long shot.

“Don’t think I’m done with you yet,” he growled softly, his hand coming back to grip your waist, pulling you against him once more. You could feel the hardness of him pressing against your stomach, and the heat flared between your legs all over again.

“I’ve been hard all fuckin’ morning, thinkin’ about you, and now you’re gonna take care of that for me.” His voice was low and dangerous, full of promise as his fingers tightened on your waist. “Get ready, baby girl. I ain’t lettin’ you go anytime soon.”

Joel’s body stayed pressed firmly against yours, the rough bark of the tree digging into your back as you tried to steady yourself.

The heat radiating from him was overwhelming, and the weight of him against you was both grounding and dizzying. Your legs still trembled, the aftershocks of his touch lingering, but Joel’s presence only seemed to magnify the need burning inside you.

He let out a low growl, his hand tightening on your waist, pulling your hips closer to his. You could feel him—hard and ready, pressing insistently against you—and your breath hitched at the thought of what came next.

“Joel… what if someone comes?” you whispered again, your voice breathless, barely able to think through the haze of desire clouding your mind.

Your words trembled, but you couldn’t stop yourself from asking, the thought of someone stumbling upon you both sending a rush of nervousness through you. It was the only thing cutting through the intensity of the moment.

But Joel didn’t pull back. He didn’t even flinch. His hand slipped lower, his grip firm and possessive as he pushed your jeans down further, his movements slow, deliberate, and unwavering.

“Ain’t no one comin’, darlin’,” he muttered, his voice rough and gravelly, thick with lust and something darker. “This is my land. No one’s gonna find us. And if they do…” His lips brushed your ear, his breath hot and heavy, sending shivers down your spine. “I’ll shoot ’em dead for even thinkin’ about seein’ you like this.”

His words made your pulse race, the possessiveness in his voice sending a thrill through you, though something about the way he said my land confused you.

He’d never mentioned this before. But the thought slipped away as quickly as it came, overtaken by the rush of heat between your legs, the way his hands worked your clothes off with practiced ease.

You swallowed hard, your body aching for him even as your mind raced. “Your land?” you asked softly, your voice shaky with both curiosity and naivety. “You never told me—”

Joel cut you off, his voice a deep, rough growl in your ear. “Don’t worry about that, baby girl,” he muttered, his lips brushing the side of your neck. “You don’t need to know about that. All you need to know is that you’re safe. No one’s gonna touch you, see you, or hear those pretty little sounds you make for me.”

His words sent another wave of heat through you, your body arching into him instinctively, desperate for more. Joel’s hands moved with a confidence that made you dizzy, his fingers hooking under the waistband of your underwear, tugging it down, leaving you bare and vulnerable beneath him.

“And you…” Joel’s voice dropped to a dark, seductive murmur, his lips grazing the shell of your ear as his hand slid between your legs again. “You’re not thinkin’ about anyone else right now, are you? Just me. Just this old man you can’t get enough of.”

Your breath caught at his words, the way he threw the nickname back at you.

You’d teased him that morning, calling him a handsome old man with a smirk on your face. But now, hearing it from him, laced with possessiveness and dark intent, it made your stomach flip in ways you hadn’t expected.

Joel’s hand gripped your waist again, his fingers digging into your skin as he pressed you harder against the tree. “You like that, don’t you?” he growled, his voice a low, filthy rasp. “You like the way I take care of you. No boy your age knows how to handle you like I do.”

You whimpered, the heat between your legs growing unbearable as Joel’s words wrapped around you, making your head spin.

His body pressed harder against yours, his hips rolling forward, teasing you with the promise of what was to come.

You could feel him, thick and hard, pressing against your slick heat, and it made you gasp, your hands clutching at his shoulders.

“I’ve been hard all damn morning,” he growled, his lips brushing your neck as he ground his hips against yours, making you gasp again.

“Watchin’ you… thinkin’ about how good you felt last night, how sweet you sound when you come. You’ve been drivin’ me fuckin’ crazy, baby girl.”

His words sent a shiver down your spine, your body responding instinctively, arching into him, desperate for more.

The tension between you was unbearable, and the way he was pressing into you—teasing, taunting, never giving you exactly what you wanted—was driving you mad.

Joel’s hand slipped between your legs again, his fingers brushing over your swollen clit, making you cry out softly, your body jerking in response.

“Fuck, you’re so wet for me,” he muttered, his voice thick with lust. “You’re gonna take it so good, aren’t you?”

You whimpered, your hands clutching at him as his fingers toyed with you, pushing you closer and closer to the edge.

“Joel… please…” you breathed, your voice barely more than a whisper. You could barely think, the heat between your legs, the roughness of his touch, the darkness in his voice—it was all too much.

He chuckled darkly, his lips brushing your ear. “That’s it, baby girl,” he growled, his fingers teasing you with just enough pressure to make your body tremble. “Beg for it. Tell me how much you want it.”

You swallowed hard, the words falling from your lips before you could stop them. “I want you,” you whispered, your voice trembling with need. “Please, Joel…”

He groaned low in his throat, his hand gripping your waist even harder as he lined himself up with your entrance, the heat of him pressing against you, making you gasp. “You want this old man, huh?” he growled, his voice dark and filthy.

“You want me to fuck you right here, out in the open, where anyone could come?”

You nodded, barely able to breathe, your body trembling with anticipation. “Yes,” you whispered, your voice shaky and desperate. “Please.”

Joel smirked against your neck, his breath hot against your skin as he teased you with the promise of what was to come. “You’re gonna be the death of me,” he muttered, his voice thick with need. “But you’re mine. No one else gets to have you like this. No one else even gets to look at you.”

With that, he thrust forward, filling you in one swift, brutal movement, and you cried out, your body arching against his as he buried himself deep inside you.

Joel’s body was pressed so tightly against yours, it felt like the air had been sucked out of your lungs.

The rough bark of the tree scratched at your back, but the sharpness of it barely registered over the overwhelming sensation of him inside you.

His grip on your hips was almost bruising, his large hands holding you in place as he thrust into you, deep and relentless.

His breath was hot against your neck, coming out in harsh, ragged pants that matched the pace of his movements.

“You feel that?” he growled low in your ear, his voice dripping with rough need. “You were made for me, baby girl. Only me. Ain’t nobody ever gonna fuck you like this.”

You whimpered as Joel slammed into you again, each thrust harder than the last, making your whole body jolt with the force of it.

His hands tightened on your hips, pulling you back onto him with every brutal movement. He wasn’t holding back anymore. It was all raw, unfiltered desire, and it had you gasping for breath.

“Fuck, you’re so tight,” he groaned, his voice thick with lust as he pounded into you.

“You take me so fuckin’ good… like you were just waitin’ for someone to fuck you like this. Ain’t that right?”

You could barely form a coherent response, your mind clouded with the overwhelming sensation of him filling you completely, stretching you in ways that made your legs shake.

Every word he said seemed to sink deeper into you, each one driving the pleasure higher, making it harder to hold on.

“Tell me,” he growled, his teeth grazing your neck as his hips snapped forward again, the force of it sending sparks of heat through your body. “Tell me no one else gets to fuck you like this. Say it.”

You gasped, your hands clutching desperately at his shoulders for support, trying to steady yourself as the pleasure mounted.

“No one else,” you breathed, your voice shaky, barely audible over the sound of your bodies moving together. “Only you.”

A low, dangerous chuckle rumbled from Joel’s chest, his grip on your hips tightening even further.

“That’s right,” he muttered, his breath hot and ragged against your skin. “Only me. You belong to me now, baby girl. You don’t need anyone else. You need this.”

His words hit you like a tidal wave, each one sinking deep into your core, making you tremble beneath him.

The roughness of his voice, the filthy way he spoke to you, the way he claimed you—it had you spiraling out of control, and he knew it.

He could feel it in the way your body responded to every hard thrust, the way you clung to him, desperate for more.

“And you love it, don’t you?” Joel growled, his hips slamming into you harder now, his pace unrelenting.

“You love the way I fuck you, the way I make you come apart. Ain’t that right, little girl?”

You nodded frantically, your breath coming out in short, desperate gasps as he drove into you, harder and faster, pushing you closer to the edge.

“Yes,” you moaned, your voice barely more than a breath. “I love it.”

Joel groaned low in his throat, his hands roaming over your body now, possessive and rough.

His fingers slid up your shirt, finding your breasts, squeezing them as he slammed into you, making you cry out.

“Good girl,” he growled, his voice thick and commanding. “You’re so fuckin’ perfect. So tight, so wet… all for me.”

You could feel the tension building in your core, the pleasure mounting higher and higher with every brutal thrust.

Joel’s pace never slowed, his hips driving into you with the kind of intensity that had your head spinning, your body trembling under the weight of it all. It was too much, too fast, too intense, but you didn’t want him to stop.

“Fuck, you’re squeezin’ me so tight,” he groaned, his breath hot and heavy against your ear. “You’re gonna come again, aren’t you? I can feel it. Come on, baby girl, I want to feel you come for me.”

His words pushed you right to the edge, your body trembling as the pressure built to an unbearable point. “Joel…” you gasped, your fingers digging into his shoulders as the pleasure threatened to overwhelm you. “I—”

But before you could finish, Joel’s hand slipped between your legs, his fingers finding your swollen clit with unerring precision.

The moment he touched you, your body shattered, your release crashing over you in waves, your muscles clenching tight around him as you cried out his name.

Joel groaned low in his throat, his thrusts becoming even more erratic as he felt you come apart around him, his hips slamming into you with a raw, primal need.

“That’s it,” he growled, his voice rough and breathless. “Fuck, you’re so perfect… so fuckin’ perfect…”

He buried himself deep inside you one last time, groaning your name as his own release hit, his grip on your hips tightening as he emptied himself inside you, the pleasure overtaking him completely.

His body trembled against yours, his breath ragged, his fingers digging into your skin as he held you close.

For a long moment, the only sound was the harsh, heavy breathing between you, both of you trying to steady yourselves, your bodies still pressed tightly together. Joel didn’t pull away, didn’t let go.

His hands stayed on you, holding you possessively, like he couldn’t bear to be apart from you, not yet.

“You’re mine,” he muttered, his voice rough and thick with satisfaction. “No one else gets to have you like this. No one else even gets to look at you the way I do.”

His words were a promise and a warning all at once, and though your mind was still spinning, you knew one thing for sure—Joel meant every word he said.

You were his, and he wasn’t letting you go.

You pulled in a shaky breath, trying to gather your scattered thoughts. The tension in the air was still thick, the weight of what had just happened between you lingering like a heavy cloud.

Joel’s hands reluctantly pulled away from your body, and you could still feel the heat of his touch, the way he had teased you to the edge before you both had to stop.

“I need to get home,” you murmured, your voice still unsteady, a hint of the recent intensity lingering in your tone.

Joel’s eyes met yours, dark and unreadable for a moment. His hand lingered on your waist for just a second longer before he let out a low sigh, stepping back.

You saw the way his jaw tightened, like he was trying to pull himself together, rein in whatever was still simmering just beneath the surface.

“Yeah,” he muttered, his voice gruff, filled with restraint. “We’ll get you home.”

You both moved around the camp, the quiet between you loaded with everything unsaid. Joel’s movements were deliberate, quick as he packed the last of your things.

His eyes occasionally flicked your way, watching you as you gathered yourself, but neither of you spoke about what had just happened, the charged silence saying enough.

His hand brushed yours as he handed you a bag, and you felt that familiar spark again—the one that had drawn you in from the start, the one that always made your heart race.

Once everything was packed, Joel turned toward you, wiping his hands on his jeans. He didn’t say a word as he walked over to your car, already starting to hook it up to his truck like it was the most natural thing in the world.

You blinked, watching him in surprise. “Joel, I can drive myself home,” you said, your voice still shaky but firm.

He didn’t even look at you as he continued to secure your car to his truck. “Not happenin’,” he replied, his voice full of that rough authority that left little room for argument. “You’re not drivin’ alone.”

You crossed your arms, a small frown tugging at your lips. “I’m not a child, you know.”

That’s when he stopped and turned to face you, a hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. His eyes darkened slightly as he stepped toward you, his presence immediately overwhelming in that way you’d grown used to.

“Baby, listen to me,” he murmured, his voice low and steady, his hand lifting to brush a strand of hair from your face. “You’re not drivin’ yourself home. Not after this. Not when I can make sure you get there safe.”

The way he said it, with such finality, made your heart skip a beat. He wasn’t asking—he was telling. His protectiveness, the intensity in his eyes, left no room for argument.

You huffed lightly, trying to fight back the flush rising in your cheeks. “Fine,” you muttered, avoiding his gaze, but you couldn’t hide the way your body reacted to his words, the way your pulse quickened under his watchful eyes.

Joel’s lips twitched, clearly catching the shift in your demeanor. “Good girl,” he said quietly, the two words carrying more weight than they should, leaving you flustered.

As he finished securing your car, you both climbed into his truck. The hum of the engine filled the air, but the tension between you remained. He glanced over at you as he pulled onto the road, his hand resting comfortably on the steering wheel, the other tapping lightly against his thigh.

“You know I’d do anything to keep you safe, right?” he muttered, his voice rough, but with an undercurrent of something softer. “No one’s ever gonna hurt you while I’m around.”

You swallowed, feeling the weight of his words settle in your chest. “I know,” you replied quietly, glancing out the window as the familiar roads blurred by. “But, Joel… I’m not helpless.”

He let out a low chuckle, glancing at you with that dark, knowing look. “Darlin’, I know you’re not helpless. But that doesn’t mean I’m gonna let you face things on your own.”

His words sent a shiver down your spine, the possessiveness in his voice unmistakable.

He wasn’t just protecting you because he thought you needed it—he was doing it because he wanted to, because he couldn’t stand the thought of you being out of his reach.

Joel’s hand rested on your thigh, his fingers gently massaging as the truck hummed along the road. His touch was casual, but the heat of it was unmistakable, spreading through you like wildfire.

You could still feel the lingering effects of what had happened earlier—the way his hands had moved over your body, the roughness of his voice as he whispered dirty promises in your ear.

The way he claimed you in the woods, his protective instincts morphing into something darker, more possessive.

But now, in the quiet of the truck, you couldn’t ignore the practical reality of what needed to happen next.

As your mind drifted back to the present, a thought popped into your head, and you knew you couldn’t put it off any longer.

“I, uh…” you started, shifting slightly under Joel’s touch. His hand stayed firmly on your thigh, the pressure increasing just enough to make your breath hitch. “We need to stop at a pharmacy.”

Joel’s brow furrowed as he glanced over at you, but his hand never left your leg. “Pharmacy?” he echoed, his voice low and rough. “What for, darlin’?”

You swallowed, suddenly feeling a little shy. “I, um… I need to get the morning after pill.”

For a moment, Joel’s hand stilled on your thigh, his grip tightening just slightly. Then, without a word, he nodded, his jaw working as he processed what you’d said. His thumb resumed its gentle, circular motion, tracing patterns over your skin as he let out a low hum.

“Morning after pill, huh?” His voice was gruff, but there was a hint of amusement lurking behind it. His hand squeezed your thigh gently, possessively.

“You know… our babies would probably be real cute.”

You blinked, glancing at him in surprise. You couldn’t tell if he was joking or if there was something more serious behind his words.

His face was unreadable, but the heat in his touch remained, and it made your pulse quicken.

“Joel…” you muttered, shaking your head as a smile tugged at your lips.

“You’ve gotta be kidding me. Let’s handle one thing at a time. You get therapy first, old man.”

He chuckled at that, his grip on your thigh tightening, thumb brushing dangerously close to the edge of your waistband. His eyes flicked over to you, dark and intense.

“Still old man, huh?” he drawled, his voice dipping low, filled with that familiar growl that made your skin tingle. “You weren’t complainin’ about my age a few minutes ago.”

Your cheeks flushed, and you quickly looked away, biting your lip. The reminder of what had happened in the woods—the heat of his body pressed against yours, the way his hands had claimed you so thoroughly—sent a shiver down your spine.

Joel’s smirk grew as he caught the look on your face. He leaned closer, his breath hot against your ear as his hand slid just a bit higher on your thigh.

“What’s wrong, darlin’?” he murmured, his voice thick with amusement and something darker. “You gettin’ shy on me now?”

You swallowed hard, feeling the tension between you spike again, the air thick with unspoken desire.

His hand stayed firmly on your leg, his thumb brushing the sensitive skin just beneath your waistband. You could feel the heat of him, the intensity of his gaze, and it made it hard to think straight.

“I’m just… trying to be responsible,” you muttered, trying to regain some composure, but your voice came out breathier than you’d intended.

Joel chuckled again, his grip tightening. You couldn’t help but smile at that, a soft laugh escaping your lips despite the heat coursing through you. “But seriously… pharmacy first.”

Joel just grinned, his hand lingering on your thigh as he shifted gears, the truck humming beneath you both.

“Whatever you need, darlin’. But don’t think for a second I ain’t still thinkin’ about those cute babies.”

You rolled your eyes, shaking your head with a teasing smile. “Joel, again, you really should stop thinking about babies and start thinking about calling a therapist.” 

Joel chuckled, the sound deep and rich, his broad hand squeezing your thigh possessively. “A therapist.” His voice carried that rough, teasing edge, filled with warmth. “Darlin’, I’m already workin’ on that, but don’t pretend you didn’t like the idea of those cute babies.”

You shot him a playful glare, rolling your eyes, but couldn’t keep the smile from tugging at your lips.

His hand stayed firm on your leg, the heat of his touch seeping through your jeans, making your pulse quicken. Joel had this way of making everything feel charged, every touch more than just casual, every glance heavier with meaning.

The tension between you both was thick, that lingering heat from earlier still hanging in the air.

When Joel parked, his hand found yours, gripping it firmly as if he wasn’t about to let go anytime soon.

Without a word, he got out and came around to your side, pulling you out of the truck and keeping you close, his hand wrapped around yours as the two of you entered the pharmacy.

You were barely inside before you spotted the familiar face of the pharmacist behind the counter.

"Hey," you greeted with a friendly wave, feeling Joel's presence looming behind you, his hand tightening around yours.

His grip was solid, a constant reminder that he was there, watching, protecting—even when it wasn’t necessary.

You explained to the pharmacist what you needed, but Joel’s energy shifted beside you. You could feel the weight of his stare as the pharmacist smiled at you, his fingers flexing slightly against your hand.

The slight possessiveness was impossible to miss, his jaw clenching just the tiniest bit as if he didn’t appreciate the friendly exchange.

When the pharmacist handed over the pill, you reached for your wallet, only to have Joel beat you to it, pulling out cash before you could even open your bag.

“Joel, I can pay for myself,” you protested, giving him a look, but his eyes were focused solely on the pharmacist, his tone gruff and unyielding.

“Of course I’m payin',” he said, slipping the cash across the counter, his voice low.

“I was the one cummin' inside, wasn’t I?”

The air between you thickened, heat creeping up your neck at his blunt words.

The pharmacist awkwardly handed Joel the small paper bag, and Joel gave him a curt nod, his hand never leaving yours as he turned, guiding you firmly out of the pharmacy.

Once outside, you could breathe a little easier, but your heart still raced from Joel's possessive display. As he opened the passenger door for you, his hand brushed your back, sending a shiver down your spine.

His protectiveness was palpable, but so was the underlying heat between you, simmering just beneath the surface.

“You didn’t have to do that,” you muttered once you were settled inside, watching as he climbed into the driver’s seat.

“I know,” he said, his voice a bit softer now, though still laced with that possessive undertone.

“But I wanted to.” His hand was back on your thigh as he started the engine, thumb tracing slow, deliberate circles over your jeans, the touch sending warmth through your body.

The truck’s engine rumbled quietly as Joel navigated the familiar streets, his hand still resting possessively on your thigh.

The drive had been mostly quiet, Joel’s fingers occasionally flexed against your leg, his grip steady and firm, as if he was grounding himself by touching you.

As the truck slowed down and turned onto your street, you blinked, glancing out the window. “Wait…” You frowned, turning to look at Joel. “How did you know where I live?”

He didn’t even flinch, keeping his eyes on the road, his thumb stroking over your skin in that calming, deliberate way. “You told me, baby,” he said smoothly, his voice a deep rumble that sent shivers down your spine.

You paused for a moment, trying to recall when you’d given him your address, but the events of the past couple of days had been so intense, it was hard to keep track.

Maybe you had told him?

You were still shaken from everything that happened, and besides, Joel always seemed so capable, like he knew everything before you even realized it yourself. Naively, you shrugged it off, not questioning it any further.

Joel pulled up in front of your house, the truck coming to a smooth stop. His hand lingered on your thigh, giving you one final squeeze before he turned off the engine.

For a moment, the two of you just sat there in the silence, the weight of unspoken words heavy between you.

You shifted in your seat, glancing at him, your heart racing.

“Joel… I really like you,” you admitted softly, biting your lip nervously. “But you need to get help before we start anything serious.”

His eyes flicked to you, a mix of surprise and something deeper flashing in his gaze. It was like he couldn’t quite believe what he was hearing—that someone like you, soft and kind, actually wanted him.

Joel had been so used to shutting people out, to keeping his distance, but here you were, offering him something real.

“You…” He trailed off, shaking his head slightly, as if trying to wrap his mind around it. “You actually want me? After all this?”

You nodded, your fingers nervously fiddling with the edge of your sleeve.

“Yes, Joel. I like you… a lot. But you’ve gotta work on yourself. Therapy could really help, you know? Before we can start something long-term.”

Joel exhaled slowly, his eyes scanning your face, searching for any hint of hesitation or doubt. But all he saw was sincerity, and that shook him to his core.

He wasn’t used to people sticking around—let alone wanting more with him.

He leaned closer, his voice soft but filled with a deep, raw emotion.

“If gettin' help means I can have you, baby… then I’ll do whatever it takes.” His voice dipped lower, almost a growl. “Everything, if that’s the outcome.”

Your heart fluttered at his words, the intensity in his voice sending a thrill through you.

Joel reached over, his hand cupping your cheek gently, his thumb brushing over your skin as he gazed at you like you were the only thing in the world that mattered.

“Darlin’,” he murmured, his voice thick with affection. “If this is what you need, then I’ll do it. No questions asked.”

You couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at your lips, the vulnerability in his words touching something deep inside you.

But you knew this was bigger than just you—it was about Joel getting the help he needed, about him facing his past and his trauma.

“Good,” you whispered, your voice barely above a breath. “Because I want you to be okay. For you, not just for me. You need it“

But the tension between you two didn’t dissipate—it only simmered beneath the surface, as his thumb brushed over your bottom lip, his gaze flicking down to your mouth.

“I’ll do it,” he whispered, his voice thick with promise. “I’ll go to therapy, I’ll get the help.”

Before you could respond, Joel was already opening his door, coming around the truck to your side.

He opened the passenger door and offered you his hand, pulling you out gently but firmly.

His hand stayed in yours as he led you to your front door, his fingers still wrapped possessively around yours.

As you fumbled for your keys, you felt his gaze on you, warm and intense.

He reached out, cupping the back of your neck, pulling you toward him with a soft but commanding grip.

“You make me wanna be better, baby,” he murmured, his lips brushing against yours as he spoke.

The kiss that followed was slow, deliberate—filled with all the unspoken promises of what could come if Joel followed through.

His lips moved against yours, soft but insistent, his hand slipping down to your waist, pulling you close.

By the time you pulled away, your heart was racing, your skin tingling with the memory of his touch.

“I’ll see you soon,” Joel whispered, his voice low, full of intent.

You nodded, your breath still shaky as you opened the door, stepping inside.

As you glanced back at him one last time, you couldn’t help but smile.

This was the beginning of something new, something real—and for the first time, you were hopeful that Joel could find his way through the darkness.

· · ─────

It had been eight months since the night that changed everything. Therapy had helped Joel more than he liked to admit, but some parts of him hadn’t changed.

The protectiveness, the obsession with keeping you safe—those only seemed to have deepened. But the dark cloud that used to follow him had lightened considerably.

The nightmares had lessened, the guilt had dulled into something more manageable. Now, he could breathe again.

But the thing he still couldn’t get enough of was you.

You were at his place again, spending time together after a long week.

He made dinner—something simple but delicious—and the two of you had settled on the couch afterward, the fire crackling in the background, casting a soft, golden glow around the room.

Joel’s eyes never left you. It didn’t matter if you were laughing, talking, or just sitting there; he watched you with the same intense gaze that always seemed to heat your skin.

It was like he was memorizing every detail of you—the way you tucked your hair behind your ear, the small smile that played at the corner of your lips when you caught him looking.

“Joel,” you teased, catching his stare again, “if you keep looking at me like that, I’m gonna start thinking you’ve got an obsession.”

He smirked, his hand finding its familiar spot on your thigh, his thumb tracing lazy circles over your jeans.

“Sweetheart,” he drawled, his voice low and rough, “if you haven’t figured that out by now, you’re not payin’ attention.”

You laughed softly, the sound filling the cozy room. "Guess I should start taking notes, then,” you teased, leaning into him, your shoulder brushing against his arm.

Joel’s smirk deepened, and he leaned in closer, his lips brushing your ear as he murmured, “You should. Wouldn’t wanna miss a single detail about this old man, huh?”

You rolled your eyes playfully, nudging him with your shoulder. “Well, you do make it easy to forget about the ‘old’ part sometimes.”

Joel chuckled, but there was a flicker of something more in his eyes.

He liked when you played with him like that—when you didn’t shy away from the age difference but turned it into something light, something flirty.

“Easy, huh?” he teased, squeezing your thigh a little harder. “I’ll take that as a compliment, darlin’.”

“It is,” you grinned. “I mean, you’ve definitely surprised me.”

Joel raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Surprised you, huh? What exactly are we talkin’ about here?”

You bit your lip, your smile turning a little mischievous.

“Oh, you know… how a certain someone hasn’t had any trouble keeping up.” You shot him a look that made your meaning clear, your cheeks flushing slightly even as you held his gaze.

Joel barked out a laugh, the sound deep and rumbling. “Well, I do what I can,” he said with a teasing wink, his hand sliding a little higher on your leg.

“Guess you make it easy for me to keep up, baby girl.”

You rolled your eyes again, but the grin on your face betrayed how much you were enjoying the banter.

Joel had a way of making you feel like the center of the universe when you were with him. It was in the way he looked at you, the way he touched you, and how he always seemed to find a way to make you smile—even when he was teasing you about the age difference.

The night wore on in that same comfortable, easy rhythm—talking, teasing, laughing together.

Joel had lit a few candles around the room, the flickering light adding to the warm, intimate atmosphere.

As you sat together on the couch, your legs draped over his lap, Joel’s hand continued its slow, steady path up and down your thigh, his thumb brushing the inside of your knee, sending little sparks of warmth through you.

At some point, the conversation drifted into something quieter, more meaningful.

You talked about the last few months, how much had changed, how much better Joel was doing.

He admitted that the therapy had helped, that he wasn’t waking up every night in a panic anymore. The nightmares still came, but they didn’t have the same grip on him they used to.

And it was because of you.

“I wouldn’t have made it this far without you,” he said softly, his voice thick with emotion as he looked at you, his eyes filled with an intensity that made your chest tighten. “You know that, right?”

You smiled softly, your heart swelling at his words. "I’m proud of you, Joel," you said quietly, reaching out to brush a hand along his cheek. "You’ve worked so hard… You’ve come such a long way."

Joel looked at you for a moment, his eyes filled with something deeper than gratitude—something more like devotion.

"I wouldn’t be here without you, darlin’," he murmured, his voice rough with emotion. "You pushed me to get better. You gave me a reason to."

Your fingers traced the lines of his face, the strong curve of his jaw, his stubble rough against your fingertips.

"You did this," you replied, your voice soft but firm. "You put in the work. I just… I just believed in you. And I’m really proud of you, Joel."

He seemed to take in your words, his brow furrowing slightly as though he didn’t quite know how to accept the praise.

His hand tightened slightly on your thigh, his thumb still moving in slow, comforting circles.

"You’ve been staying here a lot," he said, his voice low, almost hesitant. "Feels good, havin' you here with me. Feels right."

You grinned, feeling the warmth spread through you at his words. "Yeah, well," you teased, "I guess I kinda like it here too. You’ve got a nice place, Miller."

He chuckled, shaking his head. "It’s not just the place, and you know it," he muttered, his voice deep and full of meaning. "I like havin' you around, baby girl. More than I can say."

Your chest fluttered at the nickname, and the way his hand slid a little higher on your leg didn’t go unnoticed.

There was a warmth in his eyes as he looked at you, the same kind of warmth that made your heart race every time he called you "his girl."

You’d been together for months now, but the way he looked at you still made your stomach flip.

"I never thought… I didn’t think I’d ever have this again," he admitted, his voice rough. "Someone like you. It feels too good to be real sometimes."

You smiled softly, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to his lips. "I’m real," you whispered against his mouth. "And I’m not goin’ anywhere."

Joel’s arms wrapped around you, pulling you closer until you were practically sitting in his lap.

His hands slid up your back, his touch warm and comforting as he held you close. "You’re mine, and I’m keepin' you," he muttered, his lips brushing your ear.

"Can’t believe I’m lucky enough to have you here with me."

You grinned, leaning back just enough to meet his gaze, your hands resting on his chest.

"Well, I’m lucky too," you replied, your voice teasing but filled with affection. "Not every girl gets to say she has the strong, protective, handsome Joel Miller as her man."

He chuckled, shaking his head as his hand moved to cup your cheek. "Sweet talker," he muttered, pressing a soft kiss to your lips. "But I guess I like hearin' it from you."

For a while, you both stayed there, wrapped in each other’s arms, the warmth of the evening settling over you like a blanket.

The night felt perfect—easy, peaceful, and filled with the kind of love that made everything feel right in the world.

As you nestled against Joel’s chest, his arms still wrapped around you protectively, you couldn’t help but smile.

You’d come a long way together, and despite the obstacles, despite the darkness he’d had to fight through, you were here now. Together.

"Guess I’m stickin' around," you whispered, your voice soft but filled with certainty. "I kinda like it here with you."

Joel grinned, his hand sliding up to tangle gently in your hair. "Good," he whispered back, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. "’Cause I’m not lettin’ you go, baby girl."

You laughed softly, resting your head against his chest as the steady rhythm of his heartbeat filled the quiet room. You were home.

The quiet of the night settled over you like a soft blanket, the only sound the distant rustle of wind through the trees outside.

Joel held you close, his arms wrapped tightly around you as if letting go would break the fragile peace you had built together.

He breathed deeply, taking in the scent of your hair, the steady rise and fall of your chest against his.

There was a softness to this moment, something sacred and rare. It was the kind of quiet Joel had never known he could have—one that wasn't haunted by ghosts of the past or shattered by the weight of guilt.

He had come a long way, you both had, but the road behind you was littered with moments of doubt, fear, and the suffocating grip of old wounds.

There had been days when the darkness had almost swallowed him whole, when the weight of his past, the endless guilt over what he had lost and failed to protect, had nearly driven him away from everything good in his life.

But you had stood by him, steadfast and unshaken, even when he couldn't see a way forward. You had anchored him, reminding him of what life could be beyond the nightmares, beyond the pain.

Your presence, your love, had given him hope—something he'd never thought he would find again.

And now, with you nestled into his side, the warmth of your body grounding him, Joel finally understood what it meant to live for something more than survival.

His eyes drifted to the window, where the faint light of the moon spilled across the floor, a reminder that the world was still out there—dangerous and unpredictable as always.

But for the first time in as long as he could remember, Joel wasn’t afraid.

He wasn’t looking over his shoulder, waiting for the other shoe to drop. He had something real, something worth holding onto, and for once, he felt like maybe he deserved it.

As the minutes stretched into hours, Joel’s thoughts softened, his mind no longer racing with what-ifs and could-have-beens.

The weight of his past wasn’t gone, but it had shifted, lightened somehow, transformed into something more bearable.

It no longer consumed him. He had found peace in the present, in the steady rhythm of your breathing beside him, in the warmth of your hand resting gently on his chest.

He had spent so long chasing redemption, thinking he needed to be better, to do more, to fix what had been broken inside him.

But you had shown him that healing didn’t come all at once. It wasn’t about erasing the past—it was about learning to live with it, to carry it with him without letting it define him.

And in that moment, with you curled up beside him, safe and warm in his arms, Joel realized that maybe, just maybe, he had found his way out of the darkness after all.

The future stretched out before you both, uncertain and unpredictable, but Joel no longer felt the fear that used to creep into his bones at the thought of what might come next.

He had you, and you had him, and together you had built something stronger than the shadows that once haunted him.

There would still be challenges, moments of doubt, but you would face them together—because that's what you had become.

A team. A partnership. Something real. Something worth fighting for.

And as the night faded into dawn, Joel closed his eyes, finally letting go of the burden he had carried for so long. He was no longer the man who had lost everything.

He was no longer just surviving.

He was living.

And for the first time in a long, long time, Joel felt at peace.

· · ───────────𖥸──────────· ··

Sorry, I had to let these two end with some fluffy happy end. 😭

The End with the main story!

Will probably do spin offs and also a few of Joel’s therapy sessions as well as smut if y’all are interested.

Thank you so much for the support and all the nice comments, they were my favorite :)

xoxo

[thecoolstuffoutpost]

🌟Harvey Magazine September 1982 Featured: Comic Artist Ned Sonntag Plus Rare Autographed Mini 'Zine Get it: https://coolstuffoutpost.com/b/cPmyj

🌟 Journey back to September 1982! Harvey Magazine’s issue featured an exclusive look into the creative world of legendary comic artist Ned Sonntag. Known for his dynamic storytelling and unique style, Sonntag’s work captured the imagination of fans everywhere. This issue not only offers an in-depth interview but also includes a rare, autographed mini 'zine—a true collector’s item for any comic enthusiast! 📖✨

Whether you're a vintage comic lover, a fan of Ned Sonntag, or just diving into comic history, this issue is a must-have. Don’t miss out on owning a piece of comic art history with this rare feature. Secure your copy and celebrate the golden era of comics! 🖌️

[cilil]

𝐏𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐯𝐞!𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐚𝐫 𝐱 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 - 𝓂𝒶𝓇𝓀𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝓎ℴ𝓊 𝒶𝓈 𝓉𝒽ℯ𝒾𝓇𝓈

Characters: Mairon, Gothmog, Eönwë, Tilion & Ossë; reader's gender is unspecified - all up to your imagination~

Featuring: 2nd person POV, vampire!Mairon, werewolf!Mairon, monsterfucking, Balrog anatomy, avian Ainu, merman, some Dom/sub dynamics, bit of predator/prey and other kinks, penetrative sex, intercrural sex, dirty talk

Warnings: Possessive themes, smut, tiny bit of degradation branding/burn marks, blood drinking/vampirism, mentions of impact play (whipping, spanking), swords/blades, bit of blood, biting, scratching

AN: Thanks to everyone who voted on my poll (back in the day). Sorry for the delay and here are your top choices plus our favorite birdy boy - hope you enjoy!

Mairon

𓂀 Once your heart is his, Mairon makes sure to live up to his reputation as the Lord of Gifts and the Lord of the Rings. Whether it is to seal a bond of marriage, asking for your hand or a promise of love and courtship, he crafts a beautiful ring just for you - showing everyone that you are now his and possibly also enhancing said ring with a few spells so he can watch over you.

𓂀 Yet gold is not the only way for him to mark your body; he also loves to use his fire to ensure neither you nor anyone else will ever forget where you belong. Mairon's preferred symbol to draw on your skin is The Eye, and he loves to place it right on your neck or chest so he can see it every time he takes you.

𓂀 His love and desire for you take many forms, as does he; when in the shape of a vampire, he enjoys biting you and drinking your blood while he makes love to you, strengthening the bond between you. He may sing to you to keep you calm while he feeds, and his song causes the wound and the vein he drank from to appear golden for a time until it slowly fades. Mairon expects you to wear those marks with pride and not cover them up.

𓂀 Whenever his form has more wolfish attributes, he also likes leaving bite marks, but his favorite feature is his knot. He loves how it swells inside you and stretches you out while he breeds you and how it keeps his seed inside until he decides he's done with you for the night.

. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭

"Do you think you can take it?" 

Mairon slams into you with the full strength of his fána, making sure you can feel every inch of his hot, hard cock stretching you out without mercy. 

"Do you think you can take my knot, my precious little slut?" 

You barely manage to nod before a searing hot sensation makes you cry out in pain and pleasure alike. The eye symbol, proudly adorning your chest, glows in response to his words, like on the day when you were first marked by his hand. 

Satisfied with your obedience, Mairon stops moving and allows his seed to fill you. His knot swells proudly, binding you to him, and you try to muffle another scream — only for him to deter you with a quick slap on your thigh. 

"No," he says firmly, "let me hear it. I want to hear how much you love this, and you will not deny me."

Gothmog

☄ Contrary to popular belief, Gothmog can be affectionate and isn't afraid to show it. He likes to keep you close in public and holds you like a pretty little doll, making it clear to everyone that you belong to him and no one else may come close to you, let alone touch you. Even when he isn't around, the scent of fire and heat of his touch seems to surround you everywhere you go.

☄ Yet make no mistake: The Lord of Balrogs is incredibly strong and likes it rough. He may use his claws and fangs to as part of passionate love making and leave bite and scratch marks in strategic spots to ensure that everyone knows he has claimed you. Carry your marks with pride: To Balrogs, they are a symbol of strength and a sign that you belong.

☄ Gothmog's favorite way to claim and mark you, however, is fire - but he won't use his whip unless you ask him to. Instead, he may opt to simply use his hands to leave a nice and warm hand print on your skin; the same applies to any sort of impact play where he uses his hands instead of any tools. The touch of a Balrog leaves a lingering feeling of either cosy warmth or searing heat, and which one it will be is his choice to make.

☄ Aside from horns that you can hold on to, Gothmog also has a tail - and yes, he can and will use it. Not only is it a convenient as an additional limb to wrap around you and pull you close when his hands and arms are occupied and to keep others away from you, but he can also use it to fuck you if he so chooses, be it to tease you or for double penetration. He loves to test your limits.

. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭

"What a pretty little thing you are." Gothmog pats your head with his large hand while he continues to effortlessly bounce you on his lap as if you weigh nothing. 

You would have cried out from the intensity of his massive cock thrusting in and out of you rapidly, but all you manage is a muffled moan; your mouth is currently occupied by the tip of his tail. 

"We don't need the entire fortress to hear you," Gothmog said beforehand, and you agreed. 

He is — for his standards — gentle with you, but you also know that there isn't much mercy to be had in Angband. You consider yourself lucky to be with him. 

Your thoughts are interrupted when Gothmog rakes the claws of his free hand down your back and chuckles when he feels your throat vibrate with muted screams. 

"And so good for me too," he adds to his previous statement. "Keep taking me so nicely and I might even let you rest after this round."

Eönwë

⚔ As sweet and affectionate as Eönwë is with you in private, he's not exactly fond of others trying to compete, particularly during avian mating season. He stays with you whenever he can, guarding you like a precious treasure, and watches the people who approach you, both when's nearby and when he's somewhere else. Should another suitor be so foolish as to approach you anyway, they will soon notice a very irate Maia glaring at them and posturing aggressively, every single feather fluffed up.

⚔ While you two are still courting and not quite ready for marriage yet, Eönwë presents you with a lovely promise bracelet or anklet (your choice), made of his favorite materials that he gathered himself. Nothing makes him happier than seeing you wear it, and conveniently enough it also serves as a reminder to other suitors that you are very much taken - by the chief of the Maiar, no less.

⚔ When Eönwë makes love to you, he can be gentle, but he can also be feral. Sometimes his desire simply overwhelms him. Depending on his current form, he has talons on his hands and will make use of them to mark you, even drawing ancient patterns on you to show everyone who claimed you. You can also expect to find yourself covered in love bites, with his favorite area being your neck.

⚔ If you enjoy rough sex and agree to try out some more "extreme" kinks, Eönwë would love to make use of his sword - the song of steel and battle is ingrained in his very being, after all. As much as the rational part of him hates to see you hurt, the feral part of him is fascinated by the way you shiver when a cold blade is pressed against you or when it leaves beautiful lines of red on your skin and draws a few droplets of blood.

. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭

Cold steel bites into your skin as the blade touches your throat, but you only have eyes for Eönwë. He's breathing heavily, and his fána glows with barely contained lust. 

"I want you," he breathes. 

You spread your legs in silent invitation. Surely he must know that you are already his; even if you decided to fight back now, which is the last thing on your mind, he would be too strong for you. 

"Exactly like this," Eönwë says then, and you understand. He wants to take you with his sword at your throat, utterly at his mercy, and your skin prickles with excitement. 

The prospect of submitting to the greatest warrior of the Maiar so completely is thrilling. 

Eönwë enters you with one swift thrust, his free hand reaching for your hip. You make sure not to move, as you know he wants from you, and welcome him inside. The blade presses against your skin, but only lightly; his hold is steady, his posture impeccable, no blood is drawn. 

You surrender. 

Tilion

☽ Tilion loves antlers, his pride and joy when it comes to his fána, and wants to share that with you. If you yourself are an Ainu and grow your own pair, he will paint them silver with moonlight. If not, he will gladly hunt beasts of your choosing for you to claim their horns or antlers as a prize for you to wear and paint them as well. Nothing makes him more proud than everyone seeing that you belong to him.

☽ In order to make sure you are always safe, even when he isn't around, Tilion also crafts protective moon charms, infused with the light of Telperion's fruit. These are designed to keep creatures of darkness away, fearing his wrath, and may also glow to alert you to nearby danger. Not least of all they come with the additional benefit of letting everyone know that Tilion is only ever one call away.

☽ He loves to be intimate with you whenever he can, worshiping your body to his heart's content. Like his own hunt and war paint, Tilion enjoys painting your skin with matching patterns. These are expressions of love and companionship, glowing hymns to your beauty, but also marks of ownership and desire.

☽ For as hopelessly romantic as Tilion is, never forget that he's also a hunter. When lust overwhelms him, he is a passionate and wild lover, and sex with him can get rough. He enjoys chasing you, catching you and holding you down while he takes you, as well as leaving bite marks all over your body. Rest assured though that he will take good care of you after and do anything to ensure that you're comfortable and at ease.

. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭

"You are too beautiful for your own good," Tilion sighs, smiling as he kisses you on the lips. 

You are both naked, lying together on a bed of moss in the woods of Oromë, and panting heavily after a wild and lengthy chase. Of course your lover has caught you in the end and carried you to a comfortable hidden spot to enjoy his prey. 

Tilion trails his hand down your chest, your stomach, your lower body, and you spread your legs in anticipation. He wants you, you can see it; his midnight blue eyes darken with desire. 

"There you go, little deer," whispers gentle praise against your lips before pushing two fingers inside of you. "You will be all nice and wet for me soon, won't you?" 

You nod. Of course you will be; how could you not when you are with your beloved hunter, chasing your love and your pleasure with no less determination and ferocity than he chases his prey. 

Ossë

⚡︎ Ossë is a capricious and jealous lover. His feelings for you are strong and passionate, and he will fight anyone who wishes you ill - or comes closer than he would like. The storms he conjures are mighty, and even if Ulmo and Uinen stop him from giving in to his jealousy, Ossë is also a mischievous Maia who will find other ways to mess with those who have wronged you or him.

⚡︎ You will find yourself getting showered with gifts from him, various trinkets that he picks up in the oceans of Arda: Pearls, seashells, items and parts from sunken ships, bones, teeth and also all sorts of fish and sea creatures he caught for you. Ossë delights in swimming, diving and hunting to his heart's content, but most importantly coming home to you with something new to show you.

⚡︎ Just like he himself is wild and fierce, so is intimacy with him. You will find yourself completely soaked, regardless of whether he takes you in the water (as he prefers) or outside, and covered in bite and scratch marks; Ossë simply can't resist taking a bite out of something as beautiful as you are. He also loves the thought that everyone can tell what you two have done afterwards.

⚡︎ Ossë enjoys being on top of you, all around you and inside you, having his tail wrapped tightly around you. After he's done making love to you, he likes carrying you around like a precious little pearl and singing to you in ancient tongues until you fall asleep. You may also notice that, whenever you've been with him, the scent of seawater sticks with you for days.

. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭

The sand feels warm against your skin, but Ossë's form is cool and smooth. He rolls over so he's lying on top of you, his tail wrapping around your legs, and flashes you a toothy grin, like a hungry sea monster about to devour its unfortunate prey. 

"Should I take you here, marilla? Or should I drag you to the bottom of the ocean first?" he teases. 

Clawed, webbed fingers hold onto you possessively, and Ossë wastes no time nibbling on the side of your neck as you writhe underneath him. 

"Please have mercy, o lord of storms," you gasp, entertaining his little game to entice him to go on. 

You know your words had the intended effect when you feel something hard pressing against your thigh. 

"Perhaps I will," Ossë muses, a mischievous glint in his eyes. 

His tail keeps its grip on your legs, and he pushes his now-exposed cock between your thighs to rut against you.

"We will even start slowly," he whispers, "but worry not. You shall feel my full strength soon enough."

. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭. . . . . ◟੭

marilla (Quenya) - pearl

Thanks for reading! ♡

taglist: @angbangbaby @asianbutnotjapanese @a-world-of-whimsy-5 @bluezenzennie @edensrose @elanna-elrondiel @eunoiaastralwings @i-did-not-mean-to @just-little-human @saintstars @singleteapot @urwendii

[sodapopwrites]

a ballad of flame and shadow part five

pairings - lucien vanserra x rhysand's sister!reader, azriel x rhysand's sister!reader, platonic!cassian x rhysand's sister!reader

summary - she let worry, hopelessness, and grief cloud her once more. she sent herself into a stupor of avoidance and found that the only company she could stomach was cassian, much to the distress of azriel. at news of her brother she finds herself unable to hold it together and cassian has to pick up the pieces before azriel is able to say a word to her.

word count - 2.6k

a/n - i am trying my best with the time skips guys. i know theyre vague. but get ready for rhysand's return in the next chapter! oh god that man has no idea what he's about to walk into. also buckle up for the slightest bit of feyre meddling. also let's give cassian a trophy for being god's strongest buffer.

read the rest of the series here!

Years had passed and she’d let her dynamic with Azriel revert to whatever it was before Amarantha. Whatever it had been when their family was whole. They didn’t speak of their brief union. If one could even call it a union. Nobody spoke of it. They let the pair keep their secrets. 

Cassian took his seat beside her at the dinner table once more. Azriel had returned to his place further down the table. She had gone back to waking up from nightmares and crying herself to sleep. A bitter replacement for Azriel’s whispered words of comfort and gentle caress. Azriel no longer let his shadows curl around her. He kept them up in a shield around himself. She no longer looked to meet his eyes in amusement whenever Amren and Cassian started to bicker. Any eye contact was rarely made between the two. They had gone back to silent longing tinged with something else now, the whisper of the way they missed each other, haunting. 

Azriel didn’t dare push her. He didn’t dare ask her why she had kissed him that night decades ago. Why she had started to finally seek him out only to push him away. He didn’t let himself. It was easier this way. Easier to ignore that they had ever shared a bed, hushed secrets, lingering touches, peaceful moments. Easier to ignore that they had shared anything at all. But he carried it with him constantly. The golden thread of that unrequited mating bond wrapped itself around the aching loss of her. 

The necklace he had given her. A dainty replica of his siphon. A testament to his willingness to give himself to her completely. He’d see it peeking out from under her clothes. See the silver chain shine against her skin. See the glittering cobalt glass wink at him as it lay in the dip of her collarbone. She wore it still. A small piece of him. 

Maybe she carried it too. That aching loss of him. 

────────────── ⋆✩⋆ ──────────────

She could never fill it. That hole he had carved into her heart. She had tried for centuries before she had ever even had him, to no avail. But now that she had gotten a taste of his endearment she found herself searching for the flavor of it everywhere. But she never found it. 

She had grown thin, ribs straining under the skin wrapping her chest. Her hair had grown longer than she ever used to let it. Her under eyes held a constant stain of purple now, nobody knew if she even tried to sleep anymore. She wandered around the house like a ghost, only able to bring herself to talk to one person. To keep one companion. Cassian. 

They sat on one of the many balconies adoring the House of Wind. She found it easier to be outside. There was something about floating around her brother’s house that made her sick to her stomach. Something about knowing that she might not ever see him wander those halls ever again, that made her feel like the very smell of the place could suffocate her. So instead, she spent most of her time lurking on balconies. 

Cassian watched her carefully. Watched as her finger slowly circled the rim of her wine glass. He doesn’t know how many glasses she’s had today, but he’s willing to bet on one too many. Her eyelids were heavy even if they were far from sleep. They had spent the morning training. Something he was tentative to do lately. As she lost more and more weight, as her eyes grew more and more hollow. But it was something she insisted on. Everytime she sensed him going easy on her she would land harsh and insistent blows on him, until he grew annoyed enough to snap back with full force. 

The bruises from their sparring match could be seen peeking out from the billowing fabric of her dress. She had opted for looser clothing as of late, a half hearted attempt to hide her near sickly form. He eyed the purple tinted skin with a new found wary, 

“Azriel has been patrolling more often lately.” 

Her entire body seemed to stiffen at the mention of the spymaster. He continued gingerly, 

“There are whispers of a human girl residing in Spring Court” 

Her hold on the glass in her hand tightened dangerously. Don’t do this. Don’t give any inkling of hope for the breaking of this curse. She wanted to scream it at him but she stayed quiet. She thought of Lucien for the first time in years. She hadn’t let herself wonder how he was, if that anger he held for her still burned as bright as it had that Calanmai many years ago. 

She thought of him, trying to get Tamlin to fall in love. Trying to get the beast to soften enough for a human girl to get through to him. She thought of Lucien’s own distaste for humanity and what kind of snide, vaguely humorous remarks he must be making about the poor girl. A small smile played on her lips at the thought of it. She let the smile die as fast as she had let it come, 

“Whispers?” 

How had Azriel managed to hear anything of the sort? If Tamlin truly was close to breaking his curse the last thing he would want is people knowing, for fear of Amarantha finding out. There was only one person capable of sending word to Azriel without anyone finding out. Her heart felt like it was about to beat out of her chest. Cassian looked like he didn’t want to tell her but he let the words slip out anyway,

“Rhysand managed a faint and entirely too short message.”

The glass in her hand shattered. The wine in it flooding over her fingers in a mixture of blood. Glass embeded in the fragile skin of her palms. Cassian lept from his seat to cradle her hand in his own. She could barely breath. Barely think. 

He had sent word. The first whisper of him in nearly fifty years. He had sent word. Not to his sister, but to his shadowsinger. He was well enough, held enough power, to send word. 

Forty nine years of lost hope came shattering around her. Forty nine years of wondering if her brother had any power left at all came crashing down on her. It was like this one drop of hope had shattered every defense she had spent forty nine years building. Drops of red were falling from her fingertips. Dripping down onto the folds of her gray dress. She barely noticed. 

She barely noticed Azriel slide onto the balcony from where he had been skulking behind the doorframe. Barely noticed Cassian trying to pull shards of glass out of her skin. Barely noticed as Cassian pulled her up from her chair. 

Her head was spinning. Maybe it was the wine. Maybe it was the news. Rhysand would not have risked saying anything at all if he didn’t think that maybe this was the key. That this human girl was the key to his freedom. To Prythians salvation. She was dizzy and weak. Her stomach churned. 

As Cassian pulled her from the balcony and towards her room she felt Azriel reach out. His hand brushed her shoulder in what was barely a touch. But it was enough. Enough to send a spark through her whole body. She couldn’t bear it. Before she could stop it, the miniscule contents of her stomach came hurtling up her throat. She couldn’t stop herself from heaving in the hallway. 

Azriel watched as Cassian tried to get her to her room. He watched as his brother held up the entirety of her weight as she gagged into the fine carpet of the hall. He watched as the Illyrian general hauled her into her room. Helpless. Not knowing if he should follow. Not knowing if his presence would be too much for her. 

He thought of the way she had been drinking lately. Like she was using it as a way to not feel anything at all. A numbing so she wouldn’t have to think of him. Think of her brother. Think of Lucien. Think of anything at all. Something to keep her from herself. So she could sit mindless and let the wind brush against her features as she wasted away on night dusted balconies. 

────────────── ⋆✩⋆ ──────────────

Cassian knelt with her in her bathroom. Holding her hair away from her face as she vomited. He winced at the sight of her frail form expelling what little food she had willed herself to consume that day. When she finally calmed he pulled upright and let her settle on the floor, leaning against the bathtub. 

He tried to ignore the shadows that crept into the room as he started running hot bathwater. Tried to ignore the way they inched closer to him as he gently pulled her up, rid her of her dress, and placed her in the steaming water. He tried not to wince at the bruises littering her back, her arms, her chest. Tried not to wonder why she wasn’t letting herself heal. Bruises like that always vanished quickly from her skin. He tried not to think that he was enabling some twisted form of self harm when he trained with her. 

Her eyes were closed. She couldn’t get herself to open them. Even as Cassian cleaned the cuts on her hand, as he bandaged them gingerly, as the gauze he wrapped around them became uncomfortably tight. She cringed and he ran a hand down her arm in a soothing gesture, before going back to fretting over her injury. 

Her head would not stop pounding. As Cassian pulled her from the bath, as he wrapped a robe around her, as he led her to her bed, and tucked her underneath the covers. It was like a routine, a clear tell that this was not the first time he'd had to do this. Sharp pains bolted their way through her entire nervous system at every movement. She settled into the soft pillows and cool sheets of her bed, letting the feeling lull her into calm. 

Shadows curled their way through her room. Twisting across the floor, reaching for her, worried and frantic in movement. Cassian observed them carefully with something like guilt etched in his face. Guilt that he was the one she allowed with her in this moment. Guilt that he knew Azriel stood outside her closed door itching to come inside. He followed that feeling out of her room, leaving her to sleep, hoping she would let herself sleep. 

He cast one more look back towards her before he left. Not missing the way the shadows had crawled up the sides of her bed to rest with her, to curl into her hair, and around her hand. To lull her to sleep. Cassian pushed the door open and was immediately met with Azriel’s towering form. 

“She’s okay” 

Azriel shook his head. Something like anger brewing behind his eyes and in the curls of shadow circling his arms. Cassian raised his hands in surrender and Azriel let his posture fall. 

“It should have been me” 

The one to clean her up, to help her wash the day off, to carry her to bed.

“You know she wouldn’t let you” 

The flash of pain that seared it’s way across the shadowsingers features sent a pang through Cassian’s chest. He let out a deep sigh and patted his friend on the shoulder once before leaving Azriel to stand outside her door. 

He traipsed into the sitting room where Mor and Amren had been sitting. Mor looked at him with worry etched across her beautiful face. 

“Is she okay?” 

He shook his head, “I shouldn’t have told her like that” 

Mor held out a hand to him, he took it, and crashed onto the sofa next to her. As if he was exhausted. It was her turn to shake her head now, 

“It would have hit her the same either way. There was no way to tell her that wouldn’t break her a little.” 

“It shouldn’t break her”

Amren said it so casually, as if she didn’t know why their friend was reacting the way she did. Mor and Cassian knew she knew all too well, but sent incredulous glances at her nonetheless. 

“She let herself believe that everything was hopeless, sank into it, even started to relish in it.” Mor’s voice was tired and strained as she looked to Cassian. 

“Even the idea of Rhysand returning, of Prythian starting to heal, it opens up the door to things she isn’t ready to deal with.” 

Amren let out a huff of air, something between a sigh and a laugh, “Will she ever be ready to deal with it?” 

────────────── ⋆✩⋆ ──────────────

There was a dip in her bed. A weight had settled somewhere close to her and it caused her to wake from an uneasy slumber. She blinked awake. Slowly. Azriel sat on the edge of her bed. A hand outstretched to her and eyes pleading. Begging her to take it. Just this once. After all this time. Just take his hand. 

She took it. He brushed his thumb over her bandage and looked at her. He thought of her heaving up her many glasses of wine. Thought of the way her blood trailed down the hall as Cassian pulled her to her room. Thought of the way she had winced away from his touch as she was swept away from the balcony. 

He whispered her name. The word was etched with a desperate request to meet his eyes. She did. 

“I need to ask only one thing of you” 

She blinked at him. It looked like it pained him to say it. To speak to her at all. It was like he was out of practice after her many years of adamant avoidance. She nodded for him to continue. 

“If youre going to use something, to forget, use someone, for comfort..” 

The new found drinking habit. The way she trailed Cassian as if he could shield her from every shadow Azriel sent to look after her. He swallowed and took a deep breath in. 

“Use me” 

He looked like he might cry. The idea of it shook her enough that she finally spoke to him. A hoarse whisper. Barely audible. 

“Is that what you think I was doing? Using you?” 

A long pause. A stretch of quiet filled the room. He held her hand still. Still brushing his fingers over the blood stained bandange. 

“I think….I think you desperately needed a distraction from the world. From old flames.” 

She sat up now. Letting herself bring her hand to his cheek. Cradling his face. Forcing him to keep looking at her. 

“It was more than that” 

It was all she could choke out. 

“Was it?” 

His voice sounded more broken than she had ever heard it. Those two words rattled her. Her hand fell from his, her other sliding off his face, and falling to her lap. He stood swiftly and moved to leave. He stopped at the door and tried to regain some of his composure before leaving her room. He called his shadows, from every corner of the room, pulling them back to guard himself. He turned his head slightly, not completely allowing himself to look back at her over his shoulder. 

She could have sworn he whispered something along the lines of I miss you before he pulled the door closed behind him. A dull golden ache thrummed in her chest as he left. 

Was it? 

Hundred of years pining for him gone to waste. She had wasted it on a couple years of comfort. Had made it seem like he was just a distraction from something bigger. As if she hadn’t spent her entire life trying to find something to distract her from him. 

Was it?

Why couldn’t she ever just let anything be easy?

taglist:

@littlepippilongstocking

[inchidentally]

something about those pictures of Oscar with his friends really got me crazy about landoscar. Their lives are infinitely different and i feel like thats a huge part of their dynamic. I'm not even going to say that they complement each other anymore, it's an entire opposites attract at this point. and it got me thinking about Oscar's fascination with Lando. Oscar's "you went everywhere!" or picking Lando for a having a good time MULTIPLE TIMES.... etc. Lando's "oscar's cool he's calm and relaxed" or "he's down to earth". so many times where the difference in their lifestyle showed yet the other person is interested in that. thinking about Lando going from club to club to club to country to country to model to model vs Oscar has probably vacationed in the same place with the same people for a month and has had the same gf since high school. i just feel like they both would integrate into the other's life so well because each one has got a missing piece of the puzzle for the other. you know what i mean? like does that make sense?am i sounding crazy again? thoughts?

ANON PLS you make nothing but sense !!

literally the things like they love about each other being the ways they're different!! Oscar has been a fanboy for over 8 or 9 years ?? of Lando not just bc of Lando's successes in racing but he's also an ardent follower of the ways in which Lando is extroverted and wild and funny and unpredictable. as you said Lando always says what he likes the most about Oscar is how steady and down to earth and just a good person he is.

and their holidays like this one always make me think of the latest sportbible and their ideal first date ideas where Oscar is super traditional and has only ever had one first date in his life so far - and Lando's like oh we fuck before we even get out the door for dinner safhalfghalfgasjfgajls

Oscar politely seeing the sites with Lily in a 'Mark's travel agent recommended it' set of locations and then a holiday rental with old friends going karting playing tennis and eating pizzas and gasp!! not shaving !!... vs Lando practically begging strangers in three different countries to cup his exposed breasts and ovulating nipples while playfully evading fans' attempts to track his movements like an Aeolian sex sprite turning a lush golden shade of tan beneath the kisses of an adoring Mediterranean sun

and the way in which that all translates to them as teammates and now friends but also how they're still so gently pawing at said friendship bc they want to spend more time together but don't want to directly push for it and their reactions to team orders drama is to laugh together and put on smiles for the other and the way they gloated over the drama faced by other teams during silly season bc Lando kept slipping up acting as if they'd been together "years" already instead of barely two and they gently push the muzzles of fans and media and netflix out of their time together like needy dogs trying to sneak into a bathroom likeeeeeee they are so something thoroughly unique together !!!

[xkseii]

⎮The magnificent bird and the golden cage⎮

⏤ Including → 18+ content

⏤ Warnings → implied yandere's behaviour, protectiveness, mention of violence, implied manipulation, unhealthy relationship

⏤ Summary → Who is the magnificent bird in the gold cage, and who keeps him locked there.

Part 1 → Alexis Ness, Michael Kaiser, Oliver Aiku & Julien Loki

✖︎ You are the magnificent golden pheasant, and he's the falconer.

✷ Despite his angelic face, Alexis Ness is more twisted than you thought. He hates not being in control or being able to see what you're doing and with whom.

✷ He needs to know everything, so he can protect you, even though he is aware that you can defend yourself fairly well. You are his treasure, the most beautiful bird, and he's convinced that you can't survive in the wild without him.

✷ Alexis has the habit of keeping you close, whether it's having your hand in his, an arm around your waist, or simply holding your sleeve. To function properly, he needs to feel your presence near him.

✷ It is also the same reason why he goes everywhere with you, to all his matches, even if it's in another country, he threatens the coach to not play if you aren't here. Whenever he gets out, you are by his side, and the paparazzi are always excited to take new pictures of you two.  

✷ The staff and his teammates are used to his behaviour, but they can't help but have chills going down their spines when Alexis glares at them just because they manage to catch your attention.

✷ Don't get him wrong, though, he has been and always will be the sweetest and kindest with you. And he will never let you see his more twisted side of himself, you only see him as protective of you.

✷ Alexis absolutely adores you.

✖︎ You locked yourselves together in a golden cage.

✷ Michael Kaiser has always been greedy and arrogant, along with being crazily possessive.

✷ It is what scared most of his past partners away, so he tried to keep it down when you got together. But one day, after someone tried to flirt with you in front of him, he snapped and did something unimaginable.

✷ He knew it was over between you from that moment, when he showed his true colours. And yet, you only smiled sweetly, helping him hide his mistake and continued on with your life. To say he was confused, was an understatement.

✷ Though, he understood why, not so long after. As he never imagined that you could be as bad, if not worse than him, especially when you almost bashed someone's head open publicly. Man did it gave him butterflies.

✷ You complete each other, he is on the aggressive side and takes his time, savouring it, while you are more manipulative and tend to end things quickly. He may have jokingly said in one of his interviews “we are a match made in hell”, the journalists far from knowing how true it was.

✷ Still, you keep a good appearance publicly, and many fans of his see you as the perfect couple. And Kaiser never misses an opportunity of showing you off, only making the fans love your dynamic even more.

✷ Everything will be fine for you, as long as nobody comes snooping around your shared house.

✖︎ You are the wild bird who tamed his own falconer, and he ended up in the golden cage.

✷ Oliver Aiku has always been a womanizer, and never really cared about his past relationship. Despite his tendencies to flirt left and right, he never cheated in his life and promised himself to never do. As long as it stays a flirt, for him, it was alright.

✷ Until he starts to go out with you. Not only you had a strong personality, but you were such a good flirt that you managed to make him go out with you. Which, was an accomplishment for someone like him.

✷ Unfortunately for Oliver, you were a bit spiteful sometimes. And after telling him multiple times that you hated seeing him flirt with people in front of you, you started doing the same.

✷ The more he would do it, the less time you would spend with him and end up hanging out with other people. It didn't disturb him, or he never noticed, until he got out to buy something and saw you with another person, chuckling as they held your forearm, and boy, he lost his mind.

✷ Suddenly, he was all over you, by your side all the time, never looking at anyone else but now. The more he pays attention to you, the more he would get rewarded with love and affection. You had him wrapped around your fingers.

✷ And then, it became uncontrollable. He needed and desired with all his heart for you to be his one and only, going as far as taking care of the ones standing in his way. This calm and calculative man turned into a much more dangerous character. He would do anything if it means that you will be his, and no one else's.

✷ He would purposely mix up your clothes, steal some of your accessories, send messages to you when he knew that you were with friends, and delete contacts on your phone or pictures from people he found too close to you. The only person you needed to be close to, was him.

✷ He couldn't live without you anymore.

✖︎ You are the falconer, and he is the tamed eagle.

✷ Julien Loki is the sweetest man you have ever met.

✷ He is kind and caring, so soft and delicate with you, whatever he's doing. Despite being rather demanding with his teammates, he never shouted or ordered anything in your presence.

✷ To say Julien Loki was a sweetheart is an understatement.

✷ Everyone, teammates, staff, and fans were always admiring your relationship, seeming so perfect. Yet, it was far from the truth, on the common norms, standards, and expectations at least.

✷ While Julien was considered perfect, you were the complete opposite. Aggressive, manipulative, perfectionist and intimidating, most traits that a person shouldn't have, or not to this extent, at least. And yet, Julien was head over heels for you.

✷ He knew how you were when he started dating you, you have been honest about it, and told him that choosing you would be the worst decision of his life. But he never regretted it. For him, this relationship was his safe space, only filled with joy and bliss.

✷ With you, he loved not being in charge, not being seen as a prodigy, he was just a normal human being. Leaving everything to you, he trusts you immensely and knows better than to disobey. He follows you around like a puppy, trusts you with his diet, and lets you take care of him whenever he is sick or injured.

✷ Despite how unhealthy it is, as he knows that if you ever decide to, you could cut him off from the world completely. He relishes in this peace he found, and never would go back on his words, that you were the best decision of his life.

✷ If one day, you do decide to hide him from the world, he won't complain. He only needs you.

⏤ Thank you for reading! I wish you a great day.

⏤ here is my masterlist & ko-fi ⏤

[alwaysxlarrie]

50 feel good fics for sad/bad days

alright sooo i meant to post this a while ago but life got in the way so here it finally is!! considering recent....news, maybe it was just a blessing in disguise & the universe had me wait until we really needed some feel good fics. i had a lot to recommend, but instead of making a list that was 545311 miles long, i’m gonna split it into two parts. so here’s part 1! happy (belated) valentine’s day (especially to @lemonade-soul -- hope you enjoy this now that it’s finally here lol) !!!!!

the order: alphabetical !

5 golden rules by ladidah (4k)

look our mans harry is just out here trying his best and ya know what? louis is obsessed with it and him and i am obsessed with them and this fic

you smile like the sun by softspoken (1k) 

i simply do not think i could explain how cute this fic is so i just need you to read it and then you’ll understand

a+ for effort by embro (7k) 

look me in the eye and tell me that nervous harry, protective/supportive louis, shy flirting n banter on harry’s part n innuendos and obvious flirting on louis’ part, and both of them being teachers doesn’t sound amazing to you 

all i need is oxygen (and you) by @lululawrence / lululawrence (11k)

sus writes the cutest slow burns that always leave a smile on your face. harry pining over louis & louis weaseling his way into harry’s life ??? does it get any better ???

anybody have a map? by @2tiedships2 / 2tiedships2 (13k)

the way melanie writes louis’ internal monologue but also just dialogue in general is so *french kiss*. i adore her fics!!!

ain’t that a kick in the head! by keysmashlesbian & @karasunonolibero (22k)

this is such a funny fic but it’s also so cute i could read it 3823748 times and not get bored

all your mates are here by @londonfoginacup / ladylondonderry (36k)

have you been looking for a lovely crack abo lite fic set during christmas? if so, you’ve come to the right place! here she is!

as golden as the coast by softandslow (12k)

the visualizations & descriptions & relationship dynamics written in this are so cute and pure. captain niall always wins baby !!!

back to seventeen by @ireallysawanangel / crimsontheory (26k)

listen, when i say i have a thing for harry crushing on louis before they even interact in the fic, i mean it. this is such a cute and sexy take on childhood crush to lovers. i’ve said it once & i’ll say it again -- i adore the way nicole writes their dynamic & you will too!!

baby thinking of you keeps me up at night by ballsdeepinjesus (9k)

something about the way louis goes from condescending & over it in every way in regards to harry to just like fully in it and infatuated w him soothes my soul sm. and the way harry’s just there, ready for him like ‘oh fuck yeah lets goooo’. i’m obsessed. plus it’s got thigh fucking and we love thigh fucking

breathless for an eternity by cabinbythesea (7k)

i mean ok listen this is essentially mostly just porn w some plot but!!! i adore larry’s’ dynamic and the way you can tell that they clearly have an instant connection and that they care about each other and are so supportive to each other and i just ugh. such a good fic.

charm your pants off by @evilovesyou / 4ureyesonly28 (2k)

look louis just wants to take a cute patient on a date and who can blame him???

darling, can’t you see by @tommokat / tommokat (11k)

this!! fic!! is!! so!! cute!! the way louis & harry’s relationship changes and develops throughout the fic is so heartwarming and cute and the smut at the end???? andi very pleasantly surprised me w the smut and i am so happy about it

everywhere and nowhere by @2tiedships2 / 2tiedships2 (16k)

the way harry courts louis & wins him over is so cute!!! once again, i love how mel writes out their relationships, the banter, the internal monologues, etc. would def recommend 

freeze this moment in a frame and stay like this by @rosesau / rosesau (5k)

niall truly takes one for the team in honor of harry’s infatuation constantly like the good bff he is and you know what? it lands him a no-longer-moping harry and a new bff louis. the way that as soon as they have a bridge to get to each other, larry become inseparable is truly *chef’s kiss*

found my hallelujah by @ireallysawanangel / crimsontheory (34k)

if you were wondering, no i will not shut up about this fic ever. there is some angst in this, but i’d say it’s more hurt/comfort overall than anything. right off the bat, harry & louis are enamored w each other & it’s so cute n lovely (look nicole all i’m saying is that i would pay such good money for a part 2 lemme tell u. speaking of which, i actually just realized that i think i left this comment almost word for word on the fic LMAO)

give a little sing to the singles by @londonfoginacup / ladylondonderry (31k)

look i’m obsessed with emmu’s advent calendar fics & what about it ???? the crack is just written so well while still keeping things realistic and i love seeing harry’s relationship w everyone change & develop as the story goes. not to mention niall’s plotline?? and the ending??? where’s that lady gaga gif when you need it??

gorgeous (it makes me so mad) by @artxghoul / resurrectdead (29k)

i have raved about this fic before & i will continue to rave about it!! no one can stop me!! i adore how cracky but still cute and sweet and hot and wonderful it is from the moment larry meet until the very end it’s got the best vibes. the plot twist at the end makes it 10x better too. 

i made a map of your stars by @brightbluelou / brightbluelou (5k)

not only is this a super adorable popular louis worms his way into shy harry’s life, i think it’s also a lovely fic that touches on making friends who accept you and help you feel comfortable when you’ve got anxiety. it’s such a cute lil fic and i adore it

i’ll be there by @allwaswell16 / allwaswell16 (5k)

as you may have guessed, enemies to lovers can make me a bit wary. but i trust anitra so i read this anyway (i may or may not have read this before we became friends but that is neither here nor there thank u) and i’m so glad i did!!! it’s so cute n cracky n i adore it n their relationship development

i’ve been thinking ‘bout it all day by @kingonafiftymetreroad / lsforever (7k)

she’s a slow burn (techincally. or i’m just impatient. but who’s to say honestly), but she’s so cute. i know i keep saying it about these fics, but the way larry’s dynamic is written!!!!!  larry’s friendship is so cute that you really don’t even notice until they cross the line to more than friends and you’re like ‘oh hell yeah, here we go!’

just one look (and i fell so hard) by @disgruntledkittenface / disgruntledkittenface (15k)

the way louis is just so protective & supportive of harry & their dynamic comes so easily is adorable & like watching a flower bloom. i love this fic sm

just jump by @jaerie / jaerie (9k)

louis helping harry come out of his shell is so cute n sexy at the same time ugh we love to see it

kiss from a rose by @chloehl10 / lovelarry10 (15k)

shy, anxious harry getting secret admirer notes??? louis being a cute lil soft bean with him????? i cry, i really truly do

knock knock, i love you by beautlouis (86k)

if you’re interested in ~90k words worth of fluff & larry falling in love, read this asap immediately!!!

late night talking by @kingsofeverything / kingsofeverything (53k)

lauren knows how i feel about this fic bc i gave her live commentary unprovoked, but like??? it’s so good??? i told her that i think louis is sneak dating harry and she didn’t confirm this but she didn’t deny it either, sooooo. it’s the theory i’m going with hehe. flirty louis and cautious yet yearning harry are written so well. this also appreciates the ‘hey babe’ lyric from written all over your face in the way that it was simply meant to be appreciated.

let our hearts collide by @crinkle-eyed-boo / crinkle-eyed-boo (76k)

ok!!!!! listen!!!! i’m not saying she’s not angsty, b u t !!!! this shit is so good. you’re guaranteed to leave with a smile. kim does such a good job of creating & developing louis and harry’s relationship while (sometimes to my dismay) remembering to also keep up liam & harry’s relationship for as long as it’s necessary LMAO. but it’s just such a lovely, heartwarming fic that makes any tears it might also produce so worth it

lazy days and pancakes for two by @cyantific / cyantific (4k)

ugh this fic is so cute. when i betaed it, my heart was constantly melting at the fluff and i was constantly giggling bc of the banter & humor incorporated. it’s just so sweet and gives you such a realistic vision into what their irl daily life on days off might be like i cry

midnight memories by grand buzz (2k)

i would cry if there were a sequel to this. the author does such a good job at giving you a visual of harry being endeared yet exasperated with louis and louis being unapologetically mischievous as well and i’m here for it !!

masterpiece by rainbowslovehl (11k)

ok so, like. take fetus x factor larry’s dynamic of harry quite literally chasing after louis and just hoping to impress him with every breath he takes but just like. with grown adults. that is larry’s dynamic in this fic and i am telling u, it’s so good and cute and funny and read it asap pls

may we all have a vision now and again by @gaycousinlarry / momentofclarity (4k)

the best way i can describe this fic is bittersweet, but in the best way. louis can and will make harry feel unprecedented emotions in any & every universe

make him want to sin @becomeawendybird / quickedween  (9k)

i mean, harry immediately infatuated and louis immediately being flirty? am i nothing if not predictable? there are some plot twists as well! well. for harry at least. the reader has hindsight 20/20 hehe. i’m also obsessed w the dynamic at the table.

my saddle’s waiting by realitybetterthanfiction (28k)

listen, this fic has a special place in my heart bc it’s based in chicago yes, sure bUT the character & relationship developments that take place throughout the whole thing is phenomenal. i think the subtle things in this fic really make it so captivating

nothing but a little bit of love by cabinbythesea (7k) 

this says it’s not rated but it gets quite steamyyy at some points. but i’m just a sucker for louis chasing and seducing harry and showering him with love and that’s quite literally what this is and we do absolutely love to see it

our lives, non-fiction by @indiaalphawhiskey / indiaalphawhiskey (113k)

ok look, there is actually a decent amount of angst in this, but imo it’s v much hurt/comfort as well. the way india writes smut & dirty talk??? *french kiss* but even more than that, the character development, relationship development?? how louis & marcel support each other once they find even ground??? this fic will leave you w a smile and some tears to go w it and i’m obsessed. it’s on the longer end, but so worth it (i am in fact doing a fic rec list on long fics bc it’s me and who am i if i don’t continue to make fic rec lists in 2023???)

packed lunches, sticky fingers, and accidental levitation by @londonfoginacup / ladylondonderry (10k)

this has such phenomenal writing & like idk if this was intended to be read like a crack fic but it’s got such crack fic enegy and i’m obsessed w that. it’s also such a fucking creative fic it’s actually kinda mindblowing imo

promise not to fade away by you_explode (9k)

one thing i love about this fic is that it could’ve very easily been incredibly angsty and a slow burn. but instead the author decided to have mercy on us and make it short, fluffy, and sweet. and threw in some hot smut as well. it’s just so soft and wonderful and i’m so ?? i think this is one of the first fics i ever read from this fandom & it’s never left my mind since

ready to fall by @crazyupsetter / whoknows (21k)

this is the perfect combo of crack x serious/sweet imo. who is louis if not sneaky, mischievous & a tease and who is harry if not infatuated w louis, persistent & accommodating?? a wonderful pair, we love to see it. obsessed !

stars will align for us by @2tiedships2 / 2tiedships2

since mel mostly writes omega louis (& phenomenally at that!) you better believe i savor the absolute shit out of this omega harry fic. just the way louis does his best to protect harry and weasels his way into harry’s life while he always maes sure he’s okay and that harry knows he enjoys spending time with him and i just ???? my heart melts everytime i read it 

stood up by panda_bear21 (8k)

listen i have a thing for punk louis & harry already crushing on louis before they interact during a fic (i blame the way fetus harry was so obviously obsessed w louis for this) and this fic has both of those things. there is some light angst & mentioning of closeting, but the fluff so v much outweighs it.

staring across the room by @allwaswell16 / allwaswell16 (26k)

harold thinks he can resist the charms of louis tomlinson but really ... he should know better than that. this fic is so cute, sweet, and the sequel???? my heart!!!! this fic has my heart through n through n through

‘sup by @mediawhorefics / mediawhore (6k)

i! love! larry’s! dynamic! in! this! especially when harry puts his foot in his mouth and louis chases him down and is like ‘yeah, no. we’re gonna talk, darling.’ i cry and i laugh. sidenote: louis saying ‘sit your ass down’ is everything to me

single bells ring by @absoloutenonsense / nonsensedarling (16k)

i love this non-traditional abo take !!! the way louis’ attitude changes the second he lays eyes on / talks to harry is the funniest and cutest thing. louis is so mischievous and harry is so coy and the lil plot twist at the end wins you over without a doubt

tell me what you need by @disgruntledkittenface / disgruntledkittenface (2k)

listen. we have mischievously flirting louis. we have always-puts-a-foot-in-his-mouth-but-still-manages-to-endear-louis-anyway harry. we truly do love to see it!

the first time i ever saw your face by sweetrevenge (5k)

this has such a cute plot twist that i didn’t see coming, but adored! this is essentially just harry swooning over louis & honestly?? who can blame him??? not me!!!

when did i first know? i always knew by @panye / eynap (7k) 

stephanie works hard at producing fine shiall content and i am here to recommend her lovely work to you. we’ve got larry, we’ve got ziam, we’ve got romance, we’ve got a proposal, we’ve got smut. what more could you ask for??? read it. appreciate it. love it. 

why’d you come in here looking like that? by @homosociallyyours / homosociallyyours (7k)

i’m someone who doesn’t love it when miscommunication is a plot device so i love that megan had them talk out any confusion that, let’s be honest, can very easily happen when online dating. but the cute, awkward flirting and banter is so good. i love this fic from how soft louis is with marcel at the end and the way louis asks him out as well ???? my heart !!!!

we’re watching a television with no sound by orphan account (2k)

harry and louis’ immediate connection is so sweet and cute. just like the way they’re so tactile and comfortable w each other within minutes of meeting & you can feel the fond so strongly is just *chef’s kiss* honesty. i reread this fic like monthly, if not bi-weekly.

you’ve been taking up my mind by styleandsin (10k)

fanboy!harry/famous!louis ?? on a recommended list of mine ?? who’s shocked ?? absolutely no one. i love the premise of this fic and how their relationship/dynamic changes n develops quickly but in a way that doesn’t actually feel too fast -- just like irl tbh

young hearts on the chase by @polaroidlouis / daffodilsforlou (7k)

i love the spin that this has where the omega does the courting. the way louis just .... lets harry weasel his way into louis’ daily routine is top tier. they’re so soft and fluffy w each other it’s just so cute pls read this thnak u

please remember to leave kudos & comments on any of the fics that you read and/or enjoy!!!! 

[lueurjun]

costars to lovers — beomgyu.

in which beomgyu is a world renowned actor who harbours a little crush on the gorgeous costar, who also turns out to be his love interest. how interesting. lovesick actor!beomgyu x whipped actor reader! — brain fog turned into this :/. requests are open if u want something specific<3 thank u for the support!

CHILD ACTOR BEOMGYU TURNED HEARTTHROB

because who’s heart wouldn’t throb for him?

this generations leo ;) ❪ but a less of a creep ❫

known for being rowdy and wild but the second the cameras are rolling this boy IS IN CHARACTER

talk about professional

why’s that hot tho? someone revoke my simp privileges the bar is in the ground

he’s the wild golden boy that has the world wrapped around his finger

enter you

gosh.

good golly

the people’s prince/princess/royalty whatever u wanna go with bby

i see you having the same hype as zendaya

bc why wouldn’t you? LOOK. AT. YOU! you have it all

save some perfection for the rest of us bae

when people heard that THE y/n y/l/n and THE choi beomgyu were going to be sharing the same screen

PEOPLE DIED!

not literally but i’m sure someone went into cardiac arrest

it was me

because this was HUGE!! two of the biggest young stars at the moment on one screen???

set to be the next big thing purely just because of you two

not even exaggerating twitter crashed

and when they found out you were playing love interests?

oof. the internet damn near exploded

and when the two of you met??

leaked pictures of the two of you EVERYWHERE

every single person in the area was absolutely astounded

because?? choi beomgyu?? was speechless??

YOU HAD BROKEN THE UNBREAKABLE

i c o n i c

he couldn’t form a sentence

obviously he knew what you looked like and he knew you were beyond attractive

but there was something different about you in person?

you aura, just everything about you stood out to him and it left him completely tongue tied

BREATHLESS EVEN

and you’re no better because you’re sure your mouth dried up the moment he cracked a smile

absolute simps

love at first sight vibes

STOP THATS SO CUTE SORRY

lingering glances and shared shy giggles

SHARED SHY GIGGLES

like one of you cracks a joke to ease the tension and you both just erupt into a fit of laughter together

and no one else is laughing?? just you two?? in your own little moment

as the filming days roll along and the two of you grow more comfortable

beomgyu is more laid back and you get to see the real side of him

but not the one the media sees like yes he’s rowdy and wild but he’s also?? quite sensitive and tender

you learn so much about him that others would never even dream of knowing and he’s the same with you

he knows the tiniest mundane details about you

but to him they’re the most interesting??

like he loves knowing what your favourite beverage is?

and he’s fascinated by the design on your duvet at home because he knows your blanket brings you comfort

it’s the small things that no one else would even care about

but he does and you love that!! because finally someone wants to know you as a person not just as an entertainer

he enjoys the fact that you’re not afraid to act all weird with him on set

and he’s comforted by how comfortable you are with him??

it’s a dynamic neither of you have experienced before and though new can be scary, it’s also really nice because you just get each other

i just wanna smoosh both of your pretty faces together!! so goddamn cute! so cute! it’s all just soooo cute! gosh!

come here. bring it in. i need to hug the hell out of you both for being so damn cute

before long the staff are starting to place bets on how long it will take before one of you falls

your hairstylist bets you

what a traitor

but your director — who has worked with beomgyu on a number of occasions — knows that it’s gonna be him

because he’s never seen beomgyu so smitten

and he believes that beomgyu has already realized his feelings

over the course of filming the two of you hang out off set

beomgyu keeps up his ‘rowdy’ image and attends countless parties

but he’s never arriving nor leaving with a random person on his arm

instead, he’s arriving and leaving with the same person everytime

oh em gee? can you guess who?

you!!

stopped countless times by paparazzi who have no regard for personal space or privacy

and you both insist you’re just friends

but there’s something about the way beomgyu holds you by the waist or keeps his hand on your lower back everytime

that has them questioning whether there’s something more there

and to be honest

so are you

because choi beomgyu is so confusing

you don’t deserve that. i reckon u should come to me instead;)

you know he’s naturally flirty but the way he flirts with you is different to how he flirts with other people

romcom player core

he’s never explicitly said he likes you or anything

but he goes out of his way to compliment even the smallest things about you

makes an extra effort to open doors and pull out your chairs for you

even his friends are surprised by his behaviour

but low-key don’t blame him because you’re y/n y/l/n and they would be the same

beomgyu is a very hard person to read so you can’t tell whether he’s doing this because he likes you

or whether he’s just trying to gain even more hype for the film

the mixed signals are KILLING YOU

but you keep your mouth shut because making things awkward is the last thing you wanna do

nah i say go off on him! i’ll even stand behind you and hand you toilet rolls as a weapon! LETS GET HIM

instead you decide to distance yourself just a little

you couldn’t do a whole lot considering you worked with the boy

but you decided to limit how much you hang out with him in your personal time

which soon comes apparent to you both that you spent pretty much every second together

and neither of you liked the sudden space

poor beomgyu is lost because why are you so busy all of a sudden?

you’ve had at least four dental appointments in the last week

bae you act for a living and you can’t even make up a good lie?

sorry that was judgemental ily but still HOW ARE YOU SO BAD AT LYING?

anyways after your fifth dental appointment and nineteenth doctors visit, beomgyu is starting to get a sneaking suspicion that you’re avoiding him

nooo? really?? who would’ve guessed?

he’s a lil slow

since you’re all booked and busy, he decides to confront you at work

legitimately barges into your trailer and slams the door shut

staff members walking by are like 0>0 side eyeing each other bc they live for the gossip

it’s me. i’m staff members :P

you’re in shock because why is bro literally standing like a troll in your trailer?

troll gyu lowkey hot

absolutely kidding :D

breathing like he just ran a marathon

though you take a sec to notice the muscle tee he’s wearing and how it clings to him in all the right places

proof or it didn’t happen

“are you-“

“why are you avoiding me?”

he’s so blunt with it but you don’t expect anything less from beomgyu

“i’m not?”

why u always lyin?

“yes you are. talk to me!”

“i am talking to you. this is a conversation, is it not?”

smart ass

truth be told you’re embarrassed

and the fact that beomgyu looks quite upset is only making it worse

nah i’d evaporate if i ever made him sad

“no one visits any medical professional that much in two weeks. i’m starting to believe that you didn’t even shrink your bones now.”

so he believed you miraculously shrank your bones but not that you would have to visit a medical professional frequently?

yeah cos that makes so much sense

how beomgyu of him

“fine. i’ve been lying to you.”

nah. fr? nah cos i thought you really shrank your bones

“why?”

he sounds so disappointed and it actually hurts your soul

what makes things worse is that he grabs your hand and peers at you through big puppy dog eyes

“did i upset you?”

instant guilt

“no-no. not really. it’s—it’s more me than you? like—”

you’re well aware that none of what you just said made sense

and beomgyu is also confused now and you just sigh in defeat

me every three minutes after writing a sentence that makes no sense :(

“i don’t know how to say it.”

“then say words and i’ll put them together.”

instantly swooning

literally does not help your case because now you’re blushing

he literally didn’t even do anything but it’s the way he said it

the chokehold this man has on you—

“like—okay fine. i guess i feel like you’ve been kinda giving me mixed signals and i just didn’t wanna get hurt…”

cocks his head to the side like a little puppy

“mixed signals?”

you just nod and fiddle with your hands which are still being held by him as you wait for his brutal rejection

“i’m sorry? i didn’t mean to…”

you: *sniffs about to break down* nah it’s good, i literally don’t even care about you

he squeezes your hands tighter and takes a step forward

which sends your heartbeat wild because you did not prepare for him to enter your square of personal space

“i’ve never been the best with words so i usually try and show how i feel through actions, and i guess that was my first mistake. i didn’t mean to confuse you, i actually really like you and just assumed by being affectionate and such, it would become clear.”

:O

quick everyone act shocked

he’s very close now

and the only thing you can focus on is whether your breath stinks or not

he’s not dry heaving yet so you assume you���re good

“oh.”

you’re a person of many words, i see

in true beomgyu fashion, he takes another step closer with a gleaming smile

“so…what do you say we practice that kissing scene a little early?”

wot 🧍‍♀️

you literally shut down

did he just ask to kiss you???

“in like a friendly way like two actors practising for a scene or a—”

beomgyu doesn’t let you finish before he cups your cheeks and presses a kiss to your lips

butterflies.

fireworks.

his lips are so soft and suddenly, you never want to experience the feeling of not knowing what it’s like to kiss him

though you’re still a tad confused

sweet little oblivious dumbass<3

“so was that a practice or—“

beomgyu can’t help but laugh at you

because you’re the cutest thing he’s ever seen

needless to say, you had many more ‘practice’ kisses after that

and when news broke of your relationship?

the world exploded.

running off four hours sleep ready to plan your wedding rn

yes i’m using my lack of sleep to blame if this was bad :D

[fizzyfishepicgaymer]

Sethno (Sethos & Cyno) relationship analysis pt. 1!

I've been contemplating if I should post it here but it's my job to spread the sethno agenda everywhere so HERE WE GO!!!! I am here to present to u (whoever is reading this) this fairly long in-detail analysis of the relationship between the General Mahamatra, the current vessel of Hermanubis, Cyno and the current leader of the Temple of Silence, the former vessel of Hermanubis, Sethos to explain why their relationship is so interesting and hopefully to get more ppl to understand them better! (and also, bc… well… someone had to do this and since no one else was willing to I decided to take my chance and have a go at analysing their relationship and compiling everything we know about them so far *thumbs up emoji*)

NOTE - Will update this as more content gets released/more parallels are revealed!

Contents:

Comparing their visual designs

Who is Hermanubis and how did he shape the course of their lives?

Oathkeeper (Cyno's 2nd story quest) - Sethos's introduction as a playable character (NPC at the time of release) and his interactions with Cyno

Mirrors/parallels with each other

Sethos’s story and voicelines – finalising their relationship: who are Sethos and Cyno to each other and why are their lives so intertwined/their stories so inevitably interconnected?

Conclusion! (or more like a few last words from me)

Now, to clear one thing up before we get on with this – I AM IN NO WAY OR FORM forcing anyone to ship them or see their relationship in a romantic light, despite the fact that I do ship them myself. U are free to think about them as u wish, I’m just here to give my opinion and vision of them because I feel like many ppl are misinterpreting their relationship or even throwing it out of the window completely bc they just don’t get it (and that rlly hurts to see so I had to do something about it). ALSO btw just so u are aware, English is not my first language and I’m not great at analysing things and so if I word something in a slightly strange or unusual way or if I repeat myself too many times then I apologise, I genuinely tried my best to make this the best that I possibly could make it to be because these 2 and their relationship means a lot to me, and I’ve been having a crazy hyperfixation on them since the day when I finished Oathkeeper and went insane over their dynamic and potential. AAAAAAAND that’s all I have to say for now, so let’s get onto the essay! :3

!!! SPOILER ALERT FOR CYNO’S 2ND STORY QUEST “OATHKEEPER” AND SETHOS’S VOICELINES AND STORY! I recommend u to finish the quest and take a look through Sethos’s character profile before u read this! 

PART 1 - Comparing their visual designs!

As we likely already know (or might have guessed), Cyno and Sethos were designed to be visual counterparts of each other, and their designs use the same/similar colours to different extents! Cyno has medium length white hair while Sethos has long dark brown hair with some white/grey highlights. Their eye colours – Sethos’s bright green eyes and Cyno’s red eyes – are opposite each other on the colour wheel. Sethos’s primary outfit colour is white with dark brown as the secondary colour, while for Cyno it’s the opposite – his primary outfit colour is dark brown with white as the secondary colour. The colour that stands out the most in Sethos’s outfit is orange on his scarf, complimented by dark purple, while in Cyno’s outfit it’s the dark purple that stands out the most, complimented by orange, though of a different shade to the orange in Sethos’s outfit. Both of their designs also include golden accessories or ornaments (and in Sethos’s case, many of them are shaped like an hourglass, the symbol representing his Ba fragment), and another detail I’ve noticed is Sethos’s golden armband on his left arm kind of “matches” the mark on Cyno’s left arm (not sure on what it is called though). So, I guess u can say that their designs complement each other well, as well as “mirror” each other! (Note – THEY LOOK INSANELY GOOD TOGETHER I’M OBSESSED WITH THEIR DESIGNS sorry I just had to add this)

(also - this part was inspired by @ cynoimpact ‘s mini comparison thread on twitter that was made after the 4.6 Special Program where Sethos was first shown!)

As for their drip marketing arts u can also notice some interesting parallels in them – the poses are somewhat similar but Cyno holds his polearm in his right hand behind him while Sethos holds his bow in his left hand in front of him, and their free hands are lifted to be at the same level as their faces or slightly higher.

Cyno’s default signature outfit is called the “Heart of the Scales” (and according to the wiki, the Chinese name for it is 衡断之心 (Héngduàn zhī Xīn) meaning “Heart of Judgement”) – does that ring a bell? If not then I will tell u that in Ancient Egypt there was a strong belief that after a person dies, they will be judged in the Hall of Maat by placing their heart (conscience) on the scales representing balance and justice and weighing it against an ostrich feather (known as the feather of Maat) representing purity, truth and balance. If the heart balanced with the feather of Maat, then the person would pass the test and gain eternal life. Now, back to the Heart of the Scales, its description reads:

“Cyno's outfit. This garb displays the General Mahamatra's dignity and the just principles he sticks by. It was a rather complicated piece to commission due to Cyno's request for the custom-made head ornaments and requires regular maintenance.”

Meanwhile, Sethos’s default signature outfit is called the “Golden Sandstrider” (again according to the wiki, the Chinese name for it is 金沙行者 (Jīnshāxíng-zhě) meaning “Golden Sandwalker”) and its description reads:

“Sethos's outfit. The lapel is the shade of golden sand, embodying the vast desert that raised him, as well as his faith.”

Not much to say about this but it does go back to the point that Sethos’s design links in very closely to the ToS, SPECIFICALLY his Ba fragment as there is A LOT of hourglass-related ornaments/elements in it.

There’s also imagery related to their Ba Fragments in their designs! Cyno’s helmet has the eye motif at the back, and Sethos’s scarf has the hourglass motif, and I will come back to expand on this when discussing their lore!

And of course, we can’t forget that during their fight in the Rite of Duels in their Hermanubis enhanced states, Cyno’s claws are black/dark purple while Sethos’s claws are white – once again, clearly meant to contrast with each other and compliment their designs! In terms of visions, they are both Electro vision wielders which means that they have certain ideals/traits in common (yep, despite being almost polar opposites in many ways) – I will come back to this at the part discussing their lore!

[sulfies]

this been in my doc for a while decided to just put it here, Its a bit edgy lol and tbh Im just not that into this kind of dynamic to build upon it. I don't even know what I did w Desmond in my head the apple kinda put him in this restart/reboot stage where it will take a while for him to come back (if he ever does). also didn't rlly re-read or edit this so probably there are some typos :D enjoyyy I wont ever finish it

----------------------------------

“You cannot keep him here Ezio!”

“And where else? Don't suggest jail because I already told you he is of no danger to us!”

A Hand slammed on the table “How would you know! He has only been here for a week, It is not hard to keep up an act of mental handicap that long!”

“Machiavelli! Are you crazy-”

The door muffling the conversation slammed open with a boom of voices “Crazy?! The only crazy ones here is him and YOU for not getting rid of him, Ezio!”

The shouting figure pointed at him.

Desmond blinked slowly from where he was sitting.

“I know you are not as dumb as you talk to be Ezio , so please! This screams enemy spy all over the situation, please don't let the whole brotherhood be compromised for… him?”

Ezio sighed, he of course knew Machiavelli was right to be worried but he just did not understand it. He looked at Desmond's silent sitting form, as doll-like as ever. Barely blinking.

“I… listen if anything… anything happens it's on me okay Machiavelli?”

The other scoffed as he turned his back to exit “as if at any point of this I had a crumb of fault in on it, of course it's on you. Always is. Will bring the collapse of this branch just as you built it!” 

He stopped at the open door.

“When this goes all down, and you and I know both that it will, I will not help you clean it.”

Ezio smiled after him “You are the best…”

His reply was a slammed shut door.

“I swear he is nicer once he gets to know you” He turned to Desmond who stood exactly as he was left a moment ago. Ezio’s smile stood on his face.

“And he will come around… he just doesn’t get it but how can he?”

Walking next to him, his hand squeezed Desmond's knee.

“He doesn’t have what we share does he?”

His free hand clasped at the back of his neck and they stood there a bit with their foreheads touching as Ezio inhaled deeply.

“Let's get you ready for sleep”

He straightened up and pulled Desmond softly with him. He knew he could but Ezio was kind of glad he didn't need to carry him everywhere.

Desmond followed him silently as he was led through the hideouts halls and through the open door. Stopping only once the figure in the front did.

“There we are… was a busy day huh”

Ezio turned toward him, tugging at his hand delicately as he led him to sit down on the bed.

It was silent as Desmond got readied. Ezio took his time as he went over their now nighttime routine.

 His shirt and pants were peeled off of his skin, bearing the gold markings that covered his body onto night air. The origin points of the strange lines decorating his tan skin started from Desmond's left hand.

Ezio's finger gave a butterfly touch to one on his neck then pulled over a nightshirt to cover the man's whole form.

Next, his face was cleaned as Ezio wiped it with a damp warm cloth slowly, as if cleaning a beloved hand painted figurine. His fingers raked through his short curls giving them a brush they did not really need.

Few more extra steps and Ezio stepped back with a satisfied gaze. “My, now you look ready”

He lifted the blanket and patted for Desmond to get in “Time for sleep”

Desmond followed, laying down on the bed on his back, letting Ezio drape and tuck the blanket over him. Ezio hummed happily.

“Good night Desmond, go to sleep now”

Desmond's blank eyes stared back at him for a few more moments, his brown eyes gave a short low hum of golden glow before his eyelids closed over them.

Ezio squatted down near the bed and looked at Desmonds sleeping form for few minutes, listening to the mans almost dead silent breaths.

Satisfied, Ezio grunted in a job well done and stretched his back as he got up. Walking upto the couch facing the bed he plopped down face first onto it. Arranging himself to better see Desmond he got comfortable. It didnt take long for him to fall asleep with all the watching rather than keeping watch he did.

[phoenixcatch7]

I thought up that Saiki/Billy/Danny poll on a lol but honestly I keep thinking about it. They're all so interesting as comparisons to each other.

Billy, aka captain marvel: young orphan boy with a heart of gold and a strong sense of justice getting into trouble for it. Sweet darling angel with huge authority issues and Will Fight And Lie over it. Wants to be a hero more than anything else but didn't really get a choice in becoming one. Destiny is strong with this one. Uses his newfound powers to save others and help everyone around him, preferring to talk his enemies down or outwit them but very good with violence. Keenly aware of how easy it would be to turn evil (with Adam) and refuses to ever follow that path. Would be in huge trouble if the government ever got him and he knows it.

Saiki: seemingly apathetic teenager with a heart of gold getting into trouble for it. Sarcastic and pithy, he prefers solitude and privacy but keeps getting semi willingly roped into doing 'friendship' stuff with his 'buddies' (who he'd die for). Easily bribed. Acts polite and obedient to fly under the radar but does not even slightly respect authority given his circumstances with his normal family and the numerous kidnapping and experimentation attempts from governments (and his older brother) since he was very young. Was born with his ever growing powers and every attempt to reduce or remove them has failed with the exception of his limiters, he doesn't want them but didn't really get a choice. Very avoidant or passive of conflict, preferring to save his rare world saving heroics for when he can't be discovered, he doesn't have a hero persona. But he's also very capable of great violence on massive scales when necessary. An unreliable narrator with a slight god complex despite his desperation for a normal human life. Conscious of how easy it would be to turn evil and determined to never follow that path. Would be in massive trouble if the government ever caught him and he's keenly aware.

Danny: sassy and punny teenager with a heart of gold getting into trouble for it. The fluke accident turning him part ghost also released the ghosts onto the town, and he feels it's his responsibility to stop them, before either side gets hurt or worse. A typical teenager with annoying teachers and parents who want to rip him molecule from molecule has left him with very little respect for authority (but it's better than the other two - just). Didn't really want to be a hero with powers but didn't really have a choice. Will sass people into making bad decisions (that usually ends with him upside down in a wall) and generally ready to throw down the second he senses a ghost (or a vlad). His encounters have left him with an iron clad set of morals and he's keenly aware of how easy it would be for him to turn evil, despite how much he refuses to become his worst nightmare. If the government ever got their hands on him he'd be deeply screwed and he knows it.

I'd honestly love to see the three teenage power houses meet, even if just to gripe and find understanding XD. They'd be such an interesting dynamic.

Saiki: *sipping a drink as the other two crash and wheel wildly overhead in a landscape destroying spar, mercilessly critiquing them both like he could do any better*

Billy: *desperately trying to stop his new friends from conning a conman in revenge for getting conned so easily themselves despite his warnings*

Danny: *deeply morbid humour about the fragility of life as he blasts music to the beat of the video game he's crushing the other two at until saiki blows up the TV*

Honestly these three would bring out the blackest humour in each other, it'd be so bad.

Billy would be the extrovert golden boy face of the group despite being just as ready to play dirty as them, Danny the one dragging them everywhere and daring them to do stupid things, and saiki the guy in the back acting above it all like he's not the easiest to provoke into dumb stuff. MENACES, the lot of them.

But I kind of like how their wildly abnormal childhoods and lives would find so many points of understanding with the others. They'd all benefit hugely from having others their age like them.

[totothewolff]

Season of Love (3/?)

+18 | Toto x reader fem!teamprincipal, romance, comedy, and some good drama.

Summary: One night on a pier in Monaco, while admiring the sea under the night skies, you tell Toto: "I came to the conclusion that love is simply not meant for me." That's the answer to a question you have been asking yourself for the longest time. But what if he proved you wrong? Author's note: This is a multichapter Toto Wolff x team principal reader fic set along a season of F1. It's a very immersive story full of drivers, team dynamics, races, mystery, and smut. You just bought the Williams team, but nobody really knows who you truly are.

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Dances with Wolff Arc Chapter 3: Can you feel the traction?

Emilia Romana

After spending days away in Monaco, you had enough time to clear your mind and go for a Toto detox. You felt you needed it after all those weeks of having him near you and being too fixated on him; it came to a point where all your mind did in its free time was wander to him, along was also that other bad habit you developed of texting him daily beside making dumb excuses to go to him in the paddock and spend time with him outside business environments; like some sort of loyal puppy following his owner everywhere begging for his attention and some pat. 

Of course, no one knew about this; you two preferred keeping it private.

No one knew about that one time you two went to grab dinner by the bay in Baku. He looked extra handsome that night while waiting for you, leaning against that ridiculous Mercedes vintage car that for sure gave his team a headache to get it there, making your heart skip when you saw him in that expensive-looking three-piece suit, wearing his reading glasses on and smiling fully at you as you approached him down at the entryway of the luxury hotel you were staying at, you looked gorgeous and elegant yourself too wearing a stunning Zuhair Murad golden sheer-embroidered dress. Toto couldn't contain himself from staring you down as you effortlessly went down the stairs and reached him, and you couldn't avoid sniffing him - as discretely as possible - when he hugged you hi; you loved his scent; that Paco Rabanne cologne of his was beginning to get impregnated in your mind. 

Or about those long walks on the beach in Miami in the early hours to enjoy the sunrise together before heading to work. One of those days, you walked by the sea in comfortable silence, hands touching, just enjoying the view and yourselves, feeling the warm sun on your skin. The following day, you acted all playful on the beach. You had the most fun time pushing him towards the ocean to get his bare feet wet and teasing him to get him to sink in, not expecting Toto to chase you on the sand, run after you, and pick you up to bring you inside the water with him. You tried to ignore the dirty thoughts you had when Toto manhandled you with such ease and when your bodies brushed and bumped against each other in the wave's movements. 

Toto did his very best to avoid getting aroused by the sight of your wet clothes tight on your skin, drawing your curves and muscles and how tiny your waist felt between his arms. You wanted so badly to take off his shirt and to draw the veins on his arms with your fingers while running a hand all over his bare chest, and Toto wanted so badly to run his hands up your thighs and ass, to make your beach dress go up and get it out of the way.

Your attention didn't seem to bother him since Toto didn't push you away, but neither pushed you closer, which confused you. It's like he wants you by his side, yet nothing ever happens at the end; this makes you feel needy and a bit desperate, which you hate. Both are falling into a grey area that could be potentially dangerous or hurtful, and action is needed: either you risk it or let it go.

So, you arrive at Imola with a new mindset; you will try to go cold turkey on him. It would be best for the two of you to go back to business only; the Hungary GP is near and will require all your mind and strength. It's vital for your plan's success; you will not fail! No, after years of waiting for this chance!

-

It's pouring rain. The cars don't even hit the track when all teams must leave the garages. The skies are all grey and full of clouds, and a gloomy mood sets in as everyone is taking shelter at their team's motorhomes and hospitalities, making you all feel isolated in a desert-looking paddock.

You observe, from high above, a few people rush to cross from one side to the other underneath their heavy jackets, taking cover from the cold heavy rain while trying to dodge slipping in the large puddles on the concrete lane, looking through the panoramic windows, inside your warm office on the second floor of the W building as you finish discussing safety with your team and drivers, waiting for the FIA updates on the direct line, free practice gets postponed till further notice. 

Then you notice your phone buzzing like crazy on your large black marble desk.

The interior design and architecture of your office and the Williams building combines brutalism and minimalism with industrial touches, light grey concrete walls, avant-garde furniture, dark wooden and polished concrete floors with very expensive-looking boucle tweed rugs strategically placed under fantastic lightning, creating several different but cohesive ambiances between spaces. "Rich people and their quirks," you used to say, till you developed yours, which was having artists design the lightning of your rooms, a refined and expensive acquired taste.

You pick up your phone to find out what's going on. It wasn't your personal one. Yes... You owned three iPhones: personal, business, and a secure line. It was the business one, so you rule out a real emergency.

Lando Norris added you to the group chat.

—"Get a grip, loca🏎!"? Really? —Charles asks.

—What's this? —George questions.

—We should have called ourselves "Silverstoned🚬" —Sam adds.

—Does Sebastian have a phone? Send number —Lando texts.

—Yes, he just got a smartphone, but I wonder if he knows how to use it —Lewis answers.

Toto Wolff left.

—Are you serious?! Get his ass back in! —Lando complains.

—I don't think it's a good idea! How did you get Toto's number?! —Sam replies, honestly impressed and a bit surprised.

—Guys, what's this for? —Carlos inquires.

—I'm a very talented and famous driver, Sam! Of course, Toto asked for my number years ago; he has been following me closely! JK, my manager got it. What's Millie's number? —Lando texts.

—There, I sent it to you —Mick answers.

—Why? Are you leaving too? —Lando finally replies to Carlos.

—No, you idiot! But you aren't telling us.

—Hi! Who is this? —Seb enters the chat.

—Well, with this weather, I'm not planning to go from building to building to ask you if we are going out this week. What's the plan?

—Is she in?! —Lewis questions. No need to write down your name.

—Of course she is! Lando made this group. Do you think she's not in?! —Sam jokes.

—YES, I'm reading you, guys! My phone was vibrating so hard on the surface of my desk that it made me feel jealous of the marble —you joke. —Lando deceived my assistant and got my number out of her. Let's gather after free practice, if weather permits, at that sad and forgotten table behind the hospital wing to plan. Game? —you enter the conversation.

—GAME! —lots of bubbles appear.

—Game, but who is this again?! —Sebastian asks once more.

—And what if the weather doesn't permit it? —Charles jokes.

—We get there by yacht! —Lewis adds.

—Should we invite anyone else? —Sam asks.

—Checo!

—Riccardo!

—Seriously, who is this?!!! —Seb texts, one last time, to everyone's amusement.

-

The weather improves. FP1 goes as plan, just an hour and a half later. Unfortunately for you, the press conference also goes ahead. So there you are, sitting in front of the cameras, microphones, journalists, other team principals, some team owners - more like Stroll and you - plus a couple of FIA's big names. 

You are placed in a sandwich between Horner and Michael; to Horner's right is Toto. Handsome as ever. You feel his eyes set on you but choose to ignore him, trying to stick to your plan.

Before opening the mic for in-person queries, the moderator starts the conversation and asks the preselected fan questions they received on the F1 official Twitter account. Not a single one has been address to you, thankfully, yet.

—This one is for Y/N —the bombshell moderator - a beautiful redhead - turns your way.

Oh God. You talked too soon.

—Kelly, age 7, from Kensington, UK, is asking if you could tell us a fun fact we don't know about each team principal now that you know them! She attached a draw she made of the Williams team; Millie looks quite square, and Mick has a Dorito face; you agree with Kelly that the uniform looks better with purple glitter and teddy bear tape.

You make a face that has the entire room laughing. —Well, let's see. I guess I will go in the order they are sitting —you smile and make an "I'm thinking" gesture.

—Play nice —Christian says. You wink at him.

—Well, Mattia sure loves Starbucks! Every time I cross him on the paddock with my venti in hand, he stops me to tell me how much of a fan he is —Mattia nods with his head smiling, knowing you are mocking him. He still doesn't get how you drink that most hideous thing regularly; Mattia even once invites you to drink real coffee, in his words, at the Ferrari hospitality because he couldn't bear it anymore. —Ah!... Gunther... Gunther... 

—Fuck sake...

—Just here between us —you say softly, covering the corner of your mouth with your hand and addressing the journalists. —I think Gunther is a bit unprofessional. He is always on the phone with this Gene guy, you know. Gene this, Gene that. It's a bit of a codependent relationship if you ask me. I mean, when is this man working?! Half of Hass's budget goes on his phone bill. Oh, wait! Gunther, wink if you are in an unhealthy relationship?! Is he controlling you?! Gunther!

He turns on his chair, giving you the shoulder.

—Who's next? Toto! Toto is a very sensitive guy.

Everyone laughs.

—A true softie, look at him —Christian adds while glancing at him. Toto shrugs his shoulders a little bit, smiling.

—Yes, a softie! He cries watching Cars; Toto loves reading us poems and always brings cake or cookies for everyone at the meetings; he bakes —you smirk at him.

—Christian. That guy is a menace —you let out a massive sigh. The room laughs. —I don't know what Paul (Pole) —you imitate his British accent and voice —Did to you and why you are always chasing him. If I were him, I would ask for a restriction order. He is so obsessed with this Pole guy!

—OH MY GOD —Gunther giggles.

—Fred NEVER shuts up! He is a man of many words. Please! If you see him around in the paddock, approach him; he loves talking to people! Make him a five or ten-minute conversation —Fred covers his face with his hand, not saying a single word.

—Michael never takes my calls. He is always busy signing photos of himself and rearranging his trophies; I don't know why he insists we travel those around. Poor Mick has to change in the hallway; those things take up all the room in the garage. Do I have to keep going or...?

-

When you join, the group is already gathered at the table behind the medical center. As you approach, you hear their laughs and chats; those sounds warm your once-cold heart.

—As the Titanic lady said, it's been 84 years! —Millie greets you.

—Apologies, apologies! That press conference took forever! I would revolt if I was forced to hear Zack one minute more. Any plans or ideas yet? —you start hugging everyone.

—You tell us! —Carlos and Lando agree with you.

—We all voted for the wine-tasting tour —Checo informs you.

—No clubbing after the Sunday race, this time! —Lando confirms.

—Count me in! Sounds great!

-

Toto is typing...

"I tried to reach you on your way out of the press conference. You really walk fast! You are faster than a Hass; in a second, you were gone. I had no luck at the paddock or pitlane, either. Cinque Terre is just a jet ride away. Let me know."

Toto feels you are acting more cold and distant towards him this time. He wonders if you, too, had given it a thought about your "friendship" during the short break. This triggers him and sets his alarms on. He will not lose your interest.

Be strong, be strong, don't fall for it! You keep repeating yourself. Oh god, this is so hard! You let yourself drop on the bulky mattress of your gilded-style bed, phone in hand. 

You are hiding in your vila at the five-star baroque Italian resort after spending hours also hiding at your office. Avoiding Toto is hard and sucks! 

You look out of the balcony window in your room; the sun is setting behind those tall cypress trees and old-timey stucco buildings. A natural bright orange light bathes the space.

Twenty minutes later, another text from Toto comes through.

"I see. Dinner at Cinque Terre is not convincing you. What about in Ristorante Grotta Palazzese? It's inside a natural cave with sea views; it sounds like our type of place."

"Our, our, did he really said our? Who am I kidding? I'm not strong enough. I want Toto."

"Sounds great," you text him back right away.

"There are you! The chauffeur will pick you up at 7.00 p.m. Is that good?"

More than good.

-

The chauffeur arrives on time; you board the silver Mercedes SUV, but Toto is not in there. The driver heads to a runway outside town. 

You cross many narrow and ancient red brick streets at speed. Your eyes observe the beautiful Romanesque, Baroque, and Gothic buildings on your way there. Magical moments like this make you feel blessed with your present. You can never avoid the sad thought of what would have been of you if things had stayed their course.

When you arrive at the destination, a jet awaits you. The chauffeur opens the car door for you and helps you up the jet stairs. Once inside, there is still no sight of Toto. 

When the stewardess closes the door behind you, you feel totally confused till you turn around, and Toto waves hello to you from the pilot's seat at the cabin.

—Should I have signed my will? I have many things to inherit to Sam —you poke fun at him, getting what is going on, and he laughs. —Hey! Where is your uniform?! 

Pilot Toto is a sensual idea.

-

You make it alive and well to the restaurant. Your night-out locations are getting progressively more romantic and unique each time. Toto wasn't kidding; the beautiful venue is on a scenic cliff overlooking the sea; a couple of candles light the small round table, and a gorgeous bouquet of flowers scents the place. The natural stone of the cave surrounds you; it doesn't feel cold or humid; the air is warm and a bit salty.

—Is all good between us? —Toto takes you by surprise; his voice is earnest and calm as you both get comfortable in your chairs.

—Yes. Why?

—We haven't spoken in a couple of weeks.

—Oh, that! Sorry, yeah, feel free to reach out whenever you want to. I just moved to Monaco, and you know it's being cra-

—Really!? Where in the city? I live in Monaco, too! —Toto seems so happy about the news.

—At Mareterra near the marina. 

—I'm not that far away!

—How is it that we didn't see each other? It's a small town!

—Yeah, it is! I was at Brackley. It's not much of a break for me. Usually, these weeks are full of stress and work.

—You're right; it's different for you guys. Sam says I have a fake job and that team owner shouldn't count as one. 

Toto laughs and agrees; you soft-puch his arm jokingly.

—Have you explored the city yet? I have so many places to show you.

—Yes! I have been enjoying the sun, sea, and the local cuisine; I love it there —And guess what? I live with Charles Leclerc now! That's something you don't dare to say.

—It's better than Wallonia's weather, for sure! —Toto lets out. Shit! Now you will know he gossips about you with Sam.

You let it slide, but you notice. Interesting.

-

A bottle of Petrus goes empty as you two share the night away; once more, you aren't sure if it's the wine or the Mediterranean breeze, but the atmosphere feels different. Until you notice Toto is acting differently; this time, he flirts back, and this time, he seeks your touch.

-

Sam was so right. You were all the things she described and more. 

She said great.

And you became this positive force in his life.

Strong.

And you earn your place against all expectations and comments. Leaving Toto in awe.

Intelligent.

And you give him the best advice; you make him feel his burden less heavy.

Kind.

And you always have encouraging words when he needs them.

Fun.

And you make him smile every day like it is your duty, and you make him feel life is in full color.

And so damn hot. 

And there you are, a step away in front of him, wearing that tight black Mugler mini dress, waiting for the elevator. Toto was a true gentleman and walked you to the elevators once back at your hotel. When the doors open, you turn to him, pushing the hold button. An open invitation for him to join.

That's all you need to know. And that's all I'm telling you.

And yes, that's all he needed. Toto takes action.

-

You two kiss, making up for all those minutes and moments you have held back since you met once the elevator doors of your hotel room open up. You are eating each other mouths while French kissing, tongues exploring every corner, biting each other lips; it feels hot, wet, and sexy. Hands caressing everywhere, exploring your bodies.

Toto picks you up and wraps your legs around his waist. Then he places his hands on your ass, securing you, as he takes you to the bedroom.

He places you on the bed slowly, rubbing your whole body against his as he drops you down. You are left on your knees on top of the mattress, almost at the corner of the bed. Then he pulls you closer by the waist as you are licking his lips; one of your hands is around his neck, and the other is on his chest, caressing it.

Toto's hands trail your thighs up to your ass, pulling your dress up as they pass by, revealing your tiny sheer black lace Brazilian thong. —Fuck —he lets out. And he squishes your ass tightly. You let out a moan and soon start unbuttoning his shirt. He moves to kiss your neck and finishes pulling off your dress, taking it over your head and tossing it to the side; it falls to the floor.

You also finish undoing his shirt, and you start kissing his naked chest. Biting skin as you get down. You reach his groin; he is getting hard. So you trail one of your hands - with two fingers in a V shape - from the middle to the tip of his cock, applying pressure as you trace his length. Making him grunt. You open the button of his pants with your mouth and bite down his zipper. He quickly finishes pulling his pants down and removes his shoes and socks.

Then Toto takes off your bra, releasing the girls, and takes a lustful look at them. He slowly lays you back against the mattress and starts kissing you down, stopping for a good while to lick and bite your nipples while massaging your breasts with his hands. You are getting wet. He continues his way down, kissing your belly as he passes by. Then, Toto takes his time to caress and kiss your inner thighs, making you moan more. He sucks on the sensitive skin and starts licking with his tongue all the way from your outer to your inner labia lips. You squint and tremble at the sweet contact; then, Toto focuses on massaging with the tip of his tongue, in small circles, every single spot of your pussy. He is eating you so good, having fun playing with your clit, and biting your popped-out lips. 

—Ougng, unff, ughhh —you moan out, fuck, he is good. With the palm of his hands, he pushes your legs up over his shoulders and pulls you closer towards him, burying his head and tongue even deeper into you; you orgasm. 

—You moan so beautifully —he lets you know with a rough voice. You feel weak in the knees. Toto stops eating you up to lick his right-hand thumb finger and, with it, pets your clit, in hoops, every lap adding more pressure. It feels heavenly. Then with his left-hand places two of his fingers inside your mouth for you to lick them; when he gets them wet and warm enough moves them to stroke your clit in oscillatory movements, every time faster. God, you feel so much pleasure.

Toto is so hard under his boxers, so you start caressing it. You couldn't wait to pull that fat cock out, so you get to it. You start incorporating, and he gives you the space to make the next move. You reach for his underwear and slowly pull it down; his dick wiggles a bit with the friction of the fabric before curving. Fucking lucky girl you are. 

—Umh —he moans as you wrap your hand around his length and start jerking him off, moving your hand from outside to inside movements and pulling from the balls to the tip. His moans get so guttural. Fucking hot.

You commence licking his dick before placing the tip of his cock inside your mouth, it is warm and firm, and you love the sensation of him on your tongue; after a couple of minutes of sucking him, he points you to the floor. Of course, that is a more comfortable position for the two than your current one; he offers you a hand to step down. You slowly get to your knees in front of him and start blowing him up deeper and harder, resting a hand on his muscular thigh. You are licking him nonstop like his dick is your favorite lollipop. He moans more.

A moment later, Toto, with his left hand, starts caressing your chin, tracing it. And pulls his cock out of your mouth. Placing it instantly over your lips while you kiss it, giving him small kisses on the head, you two lock looks. From his perspective, it is a fantasy scene having you like this. God, what a view. With his other hand, he parts your mouth open and pushes himself back in and deeper down your throat this time. You hold him there for as long as you can. He pulls himself out again, making a soft pop sound, and does the same movement several times more. It turns you both so much.

You two can't wait a minute longer. Foreplay was so much fun, but you needed Toto inside you as soon as possible. And he wanted so badly to be inside you and to pound that pussy hard. He puts on a condom, offers you a hand to get you on your feet, and in a quick movement, he lifts you once again and takes you to the bed, this time placing you against the headboard and holding you over his hips. You instantly wrap yourself around him. You expect him to drop you down like before, but he doesn't. 

Toto adjusts himself and, in that position, slowly enters you. You let your head tilt back in pleasure. He starts fucking you like that, so you lean against the headboard while he slides you up and down on his cock, his fingernails burying in your ass, rocking you, both moaning every time his dick hits the spot. As the rhythm gets faster, he can't take off his eyes from your bouncing tits. He is so so hard you feel being impaled. You both are a mess of panting and moans. Fuck, you are so close to cum.

—Toto! ungh! fuck, fuck, fuck!

—A bit more, baby girl, fuck, hold it a bit more. I need you more.

—Toto, I can't, unf, baby.

—I don't want to stop, fuck, you are the best feeling in this world —he thrusts you hard. Skin hitting on skin very loudly. —You are so addictive.

You keep rhythm in that position a bit longer; you both are warm and sweaty till you orgasm loudly. You two stop for a second and go back to kissing each other. Toto tenderly places you on the bed. You take advantage of the movement and your upper position to slowly push him back against the mattress. Now, it's his turn. He lays there looking up at you; his eyes are full of lust, desire, adoration, and love; he knows you are about to ride the fuck out of him. 

You place yourself on top of him, one hand on his chest, the other sliding his cock inside you. You take him fully in; his dick is all the way inside you. You shift and adjust a bit, making him grunt. Then you start rocking your hips in semi-circles, slowly fucking him, making him moan for more. You could feel his hand grabbing your ass, caressing your thighs and your bend legs, then move to your neck and tits. You start bouncing on his cock, jumping on it several times before riding him harder, now in oscillatory strong movements for both your pleasure. Your pussy feels really warm. And you feel his body tensing up beneath you.

In a quick, solid move, Toto bends his legs, pushing them up, provoking you to tumble towards him, making you place both your hands on his chest to avoid falling over his upper body and face; he grabs you by the waist with a strong grip, his big hands cup your tiny waist, his fingers sink on your skin.

And he starts giving it to you so hard. He was rapt with the sensation of his thighs slapping against your ass and his balls slapping your pussy. You feel your body trembling and your tits bouncing violently.

—Toto, I'm so close, uuuughh —You can barely speak coherently. You feel like he is about to break you in two or that antique bed. —You are hitting it so good. Ugh, Toto, I'm about to, I, I-!

You cum all over your thighs and on his cock with a massive moan. 

—Fuckkkk —Toto lets out. You look like a hot mess.

In that position, he pulls you towards him, and you lay on his chest, burying your head on his neck; he can feel your hard nipples rubbing against his skin; you feel him fucking you a bit more with powerful deep strokes, slowing down, till he bursts out inside the condom among passionate kisses from you. The sound you provoke him when he comes fulfills you so much.

Even though you two are athletic, you are so out of breath and covered in sweat.

-

Yesterday, you two were at a fancy restaurant dining author's cuisine. Today, you were eating street pizza and sharing a massive 5-euro slice of Margherita on your way to the circuit entrance. 

Toto takes a big bite while you hold the pizza near his mouth as he rolls his shirt sleeves and adjusts his uniform. You are in a rush. 

It turns out Toto is the world's most comfortable pillow; you were all warm in his embrace that he had to drag you out of bed against your will and get you into the shower you two shared that day to wake you up. 

It was almost midday, and you two were running late for Qualy. Why can't you ever make it to Qualy on time?

-

Definitely, this week was one to remember, not only because of your private life. Also, because Millie finally fulfilled her dream of winning at Monza. She grew up a Ferrari fan, and this track meant so much to her. Another Grand Prix was in the bag, and Millie was closer to winning the driver's championship. She wanted to make HERstory.

You discretely caress Toto's hand as he watches the podium ceremony beside you. Amidst champagne rivers, screams, and jumps from the crews supporting their drivers, he looks at you and only you.

In that moment, you fall in love, true love.

-

Monaco

—Toto.

—Yes? —he turns his gaze away from the cool sculpture he is checking out in the gallery where you two are and looks your way. You had many errands to run that day, and he chose to join you as soon as he got free time.

—I need your help. Come, quick. —You tell him, and then you address the sales lady. —Are you sure the painting is two meters tall? Sweetie, stand there, please.

Toto moves near the Sterling Ruby painting exhibit on the wall.

You compare proportions and turn to nod the saleslady yes. Yeah, you are buying it! It was the perfect piece for the apartment foyer!

—Did you use me to measure?! —Toto complains to you. —Like a ruler?

You smile at him as big as possible, looking all silly and adorable.

—You will be the death of me. 

You come close to Toto to kiss him softly, standing on your tiptoes.

-

Day 23, and Charles still needs to learn how to park. His car is all crooked, invading, as usual, your parking slot, making it a whole task for you to park your brand-new grey Lamborghini Urus in its place.

—You brought the vinegar chips? —he asks you as you enter your apartment's living area, without even moving his eyes away from the screen before him. He is so into that PlayStation game. You have to admit, he is like your teenage son at this point and a very spoiled one.

You pull the bag of chips out of the paper grocery bag with one hand and up in the air for him to glimpse.

—YEIH! —he makes a happy sound and stands up to get them. Wincing and stretching, first. —I forgot I had legs! I tried pulling my Monster can closer with your stick, but I failed!

—You know it is a sculpture, right? —you are referring to the piece on the table next to the couch where Charles was melting in.

—One that looks like a stick and feels like a stick. Please don't tell me it is abstract and that I don't get it —Charles opens the bag of chips with a loud bang, bursting all the air out of it. He was doing all you usually found annoying, yet you were all smiley and happy. Uhm, very suspicious.

—You guys fucked —he figures it out as he places a chip into his mouth and crunches it very loudly.

—WHAT?! —you go all red.

—Yeah, you did! —Charles looks so ridiculous in those oversized pajamas; what did Lewis and Murakami think when designing that thing? —You have been all smiley and glowing lately. I mean, I'm really happy for you guys! Oh, come on, don't try to deny it! I know you have feelings for Toto. I'm a professional driver, with quick reflexes and good sight, you know.

—Is it way too obvious?! —you start to panic and ask helplessly.

—Not really. It is just that Sam and I know you too well —he pauses. —Well.. I kind of know you.

—Charles, I wish I could...

—I know, I know, no pressure —he rubs your arm.

—So is it official, then? You and Toto?

—I think so? We haven't spoken about it, really.

—As the king of toxic relationships, I must advise you to not pressure yourselves. Let things take their natural course.

Oh God... If that was the case, that course was full of rapids and rocks and was meant to crash.

-

Lewis invites you to dinner at his place. As you enter his apartment, you greet Angela and Roscoe while holding the tofu and plant-based charcuterie board you brought. Roscoe goes after you due to the smell of it. Lewis giggles.

—It's never enough food for him! —Hamilton adds.

—Help! He is giving me the eyes.

—Be strong! —he tells you with a commanding voice.

You follow Lewis to his entertaining kitchen area. Delicious vegan delicacies are on display on the marble island counter.

—All looks and smells so good! —you compliment.

—He cooked it all by himself —Angela jokes. You all laugh.

—It's a lot of food, isn't it? —Lewis shrugs his nose.

—I was thinking about texting Toto to join us. He is my neighbor, you know? He lives in the twin building —Lewis points out the window to an identical building in front of his, just on the other side of the large pool. —But Sussie is there with him. I think they need time alone for themselves. Things are rocky with those two, so I heard —he informs you.

Sussie is staying at his place?! He didn't mention you she was in town. Okay, that took you off guard, but you play it cool. —It must be weird having your boss next door —you smoothly switch topics; you are a pro at that art.

—I have an excellent relationship with him. We are not like close friends, but we make a great team; I owe him a lot and vice versa, so we are essential and supportive of one another —Lewis shares with you.

You are not the only one holding essential and sensitive information back. You don't know if this makes you feel better or worse.

Your friendship with Lewis is one that you weren't expecting to happen, but you felt so blessed it did.

—I need to know all about Shakira. Lewis, we can't fail this!

He laughs really hard.

-

Monaco is the only race you were hoping for your team to lose.

Only because you knew how important it was to Charles. So when he loses control of his car on the chicane and outs himself, you feel your soul leaving your body before grabbing it in the air and getting it back in. 

It's going to be a rough night, and he will need all your support.

-

Charles cries in silence as you two observe the vast sea on that cliff you went to weeks ago. It took you to drive Charles there this time.

Toto is nowhere to be seen after the race and on a radio silence on the phone. Now you knew why, but your problems seemed small when your dear friend was sorrowing next to you.

—This is so embarrassing —Charles says, wiping his tears. —There are countries at war, and I'm here crying because I broke my "vrum vrum" car at the races —he jokes.

—No problem is too small —you tenderly pat Charles's shoulder. —And the better way to heal is to cry. I know a thing or two about it —you say very frankly. He turns to you with red eyes still.

—You got really hurt. That's why you shelf yourself and avoid bringing the past to your present —Charles points out. Sometimes, it freaked you out how much he got you and how perceptive he was.

—Yes. I have been through a lot, enough for five lifetimes, I must admit. That's why I chose to build up walls millions of meters tall. But at the end of the day, violence hurt me way less than love did. I hope one day to be able to tell you all. And I hope one day to see you on that podium here. I'm really sorry for how it went —you two tightly hug.

—Is there any chance your walls are guarded by dragons or trolls, too? I ask for an Austrian guy who might like to know this information.

You laugh. Only by a Belgian ice knight in shiny armor, you think.

-

A phone call enters your secure line around 3 a.m. that night. You violently wake up, immediately recognizing the ringtone; you walk fast to the drawer where the iPhone is and pick it up, pulse-raising.

Moments later, Charles catches you trying to leave the apartment while attempting not to make a sound, holding a duffel bag in your left hand. It is very dark, and all the lights are turned off.

—What's going on? —he asks you, a bit sleepy, taking you by surprise.

—I have to leave —he notices how serious your voice sounds.

—You know you can trust me —Charles assures you, detecting this was different; this was deep.

 And you really, really wish you could.

—Are you in any danger? —He looks so truthfully concerned. 

If only he knew. You don't answer his question.

—I can go with you! —He offers you when he glimpses you moving towards the door; he is so pure. Of course, you don't want him near all this!

You deny with your head and start heading down the hallway; he follows you up close.

—Charles —you turn to stop him. He looks taken by how harshly you act. He has never seen you like this before. —Give me time, just trust me. I will let you know —you recover your composure. —Listen, I won't be around for a bit. Only Sam knows. Just don't mention anything of this to anyone, word? Can I trust you? Charles, can I trust you with this?

—Word, yes, yes, of course. Y/N, take care, please —he grabs your hand, and you squeeze his.

 —See you soon.

-

Canada and Spain

You miss the two following Grand Prix without notifying anyone. 

You just disappear, taking the entire group and Toto by surprise. Sure, he was pissed you weren't answering any of his texts and calls at first, but then he got really concerned as the days passed by, and he got no news from you. He was just a day away from visiting the Interpol offices himself.

Until an envelope with a statement arrives at the FIA offices, which they make public, claiming your absence was due to business trips that you couldn't reschedule. Michael gets a variant of the same letter, which everyone buys it.

Well, almost everyone.

—Is there any word on her? —Lewis asks, still concerned, sitting at the table where all you gather behind the medical center; it doesn't matter in which paddock or circuit; it's now your official meeting spot.

Lando shakes his head. —She's not answering my texts either.

—Well, that's not new! —George jokes, lighting up the mood.

Charles remains quiet.

—It sits weird with me. Why just vanish like that? —Sebastian adds. Making himself room next to Lewis, an inch away from sitting on his lap.

—Yeah, why not answer?! —Lewis agrees.

—She didn't mention anything to me —Sam lies as Carlos's eyes set on her.

—For sure she is very busy! It's just a pair of business trips, guys! Why are we all concerned about this? —Charles sells them the idea.

—Maybe, yeah —Millie enters the conversation, leaning against the building wall, arms crossed and slightly serious.

Sam looks directly at Charles, wondering if he knows.

Then Millie walks to Sam. —You are such a bad liar, auntie. Good thing they don't know you well enough —Millie whispers softly near her ear. —Whatever it's going on, I hope Y/N is okay. —Then she helps them change the subject. —SO, MICK'S BIRTHDAY PARTY? Strip club or what?!

-

Belgium

A very tired-looking you sip a cup of hot tea in a manor miles away, inside what once was a drawing room centuries ago, getting comfortable in that bulky armchair, rubbing your bare feet against the large hand-knotted rug on the floor.

Along with your bedroom, this is your favorite room; you never tire of looking up at the vaulted ceilings, painstakingly hand-painted with murals of the Wallonia flora, fauna, and bird life. A beautiful, old, large chandelier hangs at the center, sparkling on the walls.

A massive window overlooks the back garden and into the forest, currently hiding behind thick fog. You try to get warm with the crackling fire on the period-style fireplace handmade with the finest marble; the weather was brutally cold that morning, which didn't lift your mood. 

14-foot-high mirrors and wood panels cover the walls, and antiques and paintings give character to the room. You know every piece by heart and all its stories. They were your company most of the time.

All you wished at the moment was Toto's embrace to keep you from this cold and to chat with Charles instead of that bust of Ser Everard, which makes you sound more delulu than usual.

You miss the paddock buzz and your friends' laughs filling the air instead of this dead quietness.

-

He looks at you from afar, leaning his fit body against the big double door frame of the drawing room, with compassionate eyes, knowing quite well you wish you weren't there. 

You look sad, but there is little he could do. He was happy to have you back at the house where you once belonged, even if your heart and mind were elsewhere.

-

He kept this room as you left it and asked his staff not to move a single thing. When you entered it for the first time after a while, you felt like you had left yesterday. It was preserved in time like one of those time capsules or like a museum.

There has been so much going on that you two barely had time to talk. It was better that way. You don't lie to him, but you don't feel like letting him know about your place in Monaco; he still thinks you are staying at Sam's or sharing any details about your new life with him. 

Then you notice him standing there looking at you; that man has the skills of a cat.

—Ready, mon cher? —he asks you softly.

—YES! Super ready!

To be continued... < Previous chapter | Masterlist | Next chapter >

[mqsi]

bro ur really good a ta writting 👏❤❤❤

anyways can you write smut about fc barca players seeing readers preformance at idk a show for celebs or something ALSO the reader is belly dancing and singing hips don't lie, chantaje and ojos asi ( as if the reader was the original maker of the songs)

thanks love ya

Thank you love, I’ve seen your recent post and I just wanted to tell you that everything is gonna be okay, you’re strong. Here you go, I love you💓

warning: smut

——————————————————————————

You just released a new album, ads and campaings for it were everywhere. You ended up getting an invitation for an event in Madrid. It was meant to gather the young stars in the world from various professions. Some of the Barça players were there as well.

You did a short interview first before the staff led you to a small stage so you can perform a song or two from the album. On your way there you met eyes with a short brunette. You immediately recognized the face. Golden boy, Pedri.

His eyes weren’t leaving yours and you smiled, rushing to the stage.

As you got on, people started gathering around, eager to hear you sing live. Pedri nudged Gavi in the shoulder, whispering something in his ear before they made their way to you.

Music blasted from the speakers as you started singing. The song you chose to do was very dynamic and it needed a good dance choreography to follow. Your hips started moving to the beat, the outfit you were wearing was showing some skin here and there.

At first, you were sceptical about wearing it but the way Pedri was watching you, it seemed like the perfect choice now. His eyes were on your body the whole time. You were enjoying yourself, his gaze was boosting your ego and he knew by the way you smiled at him.

When you finished the performance, people gave you a round of applause. You thanked everyone but the the only thing on your mind was Pedri. You wanted to approach him but your eyes lost his form. You were guessing he had his interviews and what not and just let it be for now.

The rest of the event was quite boring with your thoughts drifting off to Pedri. You were unsuccessful with finding him for the rest of the night. Disappointed, you went back to your hotel only to be met with the person you searched for the entire night. Pedri and Gavi were in the lobby, talking to some people before heading to the elevator.

You weren’t really planning to chase after him but the circumstances gave you no other option. You pretended like you needed to chase the elevator, which was not really a lie after all.

Gavi noticed you running and stopped the doors from closing. You rushed in

“Thank you” and Gavi nodded.

Pedri turned his eyes from the phone and his eyebrows lifted in surprise. He stuffed the phone in his pocket, giving you full attention.

“That was a nice show, you sure know how to dance” he replied, reffering to your quite sensual dancing on stage just a few hours ago.

“Well thank you, you sure know how to stare”

Gavi snorted but soon composed himself as Pedri gave him a warning look.

“I would say you enjoyed my staring skills”

The elevator came to a stop, both boys needing to get off here. You were trying to think of a quick comeback or anything to say to keep talking to him when you heard Pedri whisper in your ear.

“room 268, I’ll be alone in an hour” he said, leaving you shocked and turned on.

An hour passed rather quickly with you taking a shower and trying to find the underwear that match your bra the most,but at the end decided to just go without one. You weren’t really planning to get laid on your trip to a celebrity event but I guess you never know.

You nervously made your way to his door, knocking. Pedri opened, greeting you in a pair of shorts and a basic t shirt.

“I wasn’t sure If you’d actually come” he said, stepping to the side so you can enter the room. He locked the door behind you.

“You’re sharing this room?” You said, placing your phone down as the only thing you brought with you.

“Yes, with Gavi, but he ain’t sleeping here tonight” he said making his way on the balcony. You followed behind him, getting comfortable in one of the chairs. The balcony was pretty high up, giving you a stunning view of the city shining in the night.

“So, what made you come?” Pedri asked, crossing his arms against his chest and leaning against the railing.

You looked up at him from your spot “You”

“Oh yeah? Show me”

You got up from your seat, now standing in front of him. He looked you up and down, a slight smile plastered on his face.

“I mean, not wearing a bra speaks for itself” he said, now looking at your nipples that were visible against the tight tank top.

You stepped closer, one hand pulling apart his from his chest. “Well, I said I came here for you”

Pedri pulled you in by your waist, crashing your lips together in a messy kiss. Hands roaming your body, eventually coming to your breasts, teasing your nipples trough the material. You moaned in his mouth, one hand sneaking down to the bulge in his shorts. You stroked him a bit before sinking down on your knees.

“So needy, aren’t you? Gonna suck my dick here?” he said, pulling your hair from your face.

You smiled up at him, pulling the shorts and boxers down. Cold air on his bare cock made Pedri hiss, urging you to take him in your warm mouth. You gave him a few playful tugs before licking the tip. Soon, your mouth enveloped him, his hands tangling in your hair.

Pedri threw his head back, the wind ruffling his hair. He opened his eyes for a moment, met with the starry sky. You kept sucking him off, enjoying his sounds that were muffled by the streets.

Pedri pulled you back by your hair, breathing heavy.

“As much as I want to cum down your throat, I really want to fuck you as well”

Smirking, you got up and rushed back into the room. Pedri pushed you against the glass walls,kissing down your neck. He made quick work of your clothes, pressing you against the glass. You squirmed from feeing the cold material against your nipples.

All of this made you dripping wet, just waiting for him to fill you up. “Pedri,please”

He laughed behind you, one hand grabbing his cock, pushing it trough your folds, coating him in your juices. You whined when you felt him push in, stretching you out so deliciously. He grunted against your ear.

His hips soon found a steady pace, keeping his hands on your hips, ocasionally gripping them.

“It seems these are not just for dancing, ha?” He said, pulling out and slamming back into you.

You moaned, pushing your ass back, urging him to continue. He pressed your cheek against the cold surface.

“Fuck, you love being fucked like this? Pressed up against the glass? I wonder what would people think If the glass weren’t tinted”

You could only moan his name over and over again, his cock hitting all the right spots. Pedri’s hand went to your clit, working in circles. You could feel tears of pleasure forming.

“Go on, cum for me bonita”

A few more snaps of his hips and you were gone, his strong arms holding you up. He was close himself, thrusts sloppy, chasing the orgasm. Muttering curses under his breath, Pedri came on your ass, smearing the cum with his cock.

You looked back at him from the glass

“I hope there are more events you’re invited to”

——————————————————————————

you didn’t specify who so I chose Pedri, I think he fits this better than Gavi.

a/n: poor Gavi sleeping on the floor at someone elses room so Pedri can fuck

[lily-alphonse]

what if... shane and mr. qi

Bro what 😭 I know absolutely nothing about Mr. Qi. BUT I have like 2 or 3 more asks with him in it so it looks like Im gonna have to build a characterization for him real quick lol. I love him though. Love a weird little cryptid man and the fanart is so good.

What interest would he have in Shane I wonder? Maybe it's an AU where Shane is the one to take over the farm and everything so he's secretly special. OR... Mr. Qi just enjoys watching a dumpsterfire. There's no TLC in Stardew Valley so what better reality TV content than to watch the town drunk? Maybe even make things a little worse for him sometimes just for funsies.

You know how in the Sims, if you have an unlucky Sim they can cheat death because Grim either pities or is amused by their shenanigans? That's the dynamic I think. Shane is so unlucky that Qi finds him endearing over time.

Qi would start to leave notes for him, trying to send him on adventures or test him. Shane would have none of it, crumbling the weird notes and suspecting someone was playing some kind of prank on him. Qi gets annoyed about it. Enough to even reveal himself, but he picks (what may or may not be) the best time because Shane is so drunk he doesn't even care.

Mr. Qi almost blends into the darkness by the dock, except his cape shimmers with moonlight and catches Shane's eye. He approaches him when he's discovered.

"Shane," he says in greeting.

It makes Shane wonder if he knows him. Then he wonders if he should be worried about this random shady character approaching him. But he also looks kinda silly, a wide hat and sunglasses obscuring his face, and the most obvious answer is that he’s finally snapped.

Shane narrows his eyes at him, trying to decide what to name this odd figment of his imagination. "Mr..." he starts, and Mr. Qi is almost ready to be impressed until Shane settles on "Hat."

Qi isn't sure whether to laugh or disappear in a rage.

A sort of scoff comes out instead and he sits next to him on the dock. 

"Where did you come from?" Shane asks.

"I come from everywhere." 

"Figures," Shane mumbles into his beer can. He downs another drink. "You're not gonna be some kind of like... conscious that talks in riddles or something are you?"

It feels appropriate, almost making them equals, for Shane to see him as an imaginary friend. It makes up for the way Qi had started to see him as a pet. 

"Not a conscious, though I might speak in riddles occasionally."

“Dammit. Tracks I guess. Can never make sense of any of the shit up here,” he mumbles, gesturing to his head.

Qi had been planning to ask him about the notes, maybe even scare him a little. But here he was being handed the golden opportunity to see into Shane’s mind, and that was even better.

Actually, being an unknown, an enigma, had always been the goal. Short of that,he was forced to keep a carefully curated reputation of mystery, which was not at all the same. Meeting in this way turned out to be a blessing.

“Why do you think you’ve summoned me here?”

“I'm drunk.”

“I can see that.”

“I dunno, I'm pathetically lonely," he says with an exasperated sigh, "Obviously.”

Qi feels a twinge of something unnameable at that, though it's still pretty amusing. He likes the blunt way Shane speaks, especially when he puts himself down, its pure dark-comedy gold. It feels different when directed at him personally though. Like some long-dormant human urge within him makes his heart ache to match Shane’s.

“Are you?” he asks simply.

"D'you have eyes under there?" Shane slurs, looking at him more closely.

"Would you have made me without eyes?"

"Good point. The fuck are we talking about? Who are you?"

"Mr. Hat, apparently."

"Right."

Anyway, they continue to meet like this, with Mr. Qi as his supposed imaginary friend, and Mr. Qi begins to genuinely enjoy the connection they have because no one has ever treated him like this. Everyone he meets is intimidated by him, afraid of him, or looking to screw him over. And beyond that, when he was younger and more human, it was always people wanting to know him. Always so many questions.

His goal was always to be unknown.

He gets that with Shane, under the pretext that he does not exist. It’s freeing, and paradoxically allows him to open up. Any perceived oddity about him only gets turned into a reflection on the darkness in Shane’s mind. In this way, Shane might know him in a deeper sense than anyone else has in a long time. Plus, Qi doesn’t laugh this much with anyone else.  

Shane wants to be unknown too, in his own way. But he starts to hate himself a little less, after these late night talks to ‘himself’. Weirdly he starts drinking less and the hallucination stays. 

I think there would be quite a dramatic falling out when he finds out the truth, but in a way, Shane would also be relieved that this was a real person he could potentially be with.

This ask is a part of the (now closed) SDV Rarepair Challenge! Check out the other answers here, and make sure to boost your favorite so it can appear in the final fic poll! More info on that here.

[taddymason]

I hope I’m not only one who Hates yellow as color for Jay:both as secondary color for his ninja gi and lightning!

First of all:yellow looks horrible one yellow mini figs,and to not make it same color,they make yellow on him like a highlighter yellow,which is disgusting

Second:yellow lightning is literally everywhere,and Seeing BLUE ninja of Lightning having this yellow feels like loss of individuality in Jay as character with such superpowers.

One of many reasons I love Jay is that he is not yellow lightning,he is blue lightning

RD may have strong sides like animation and dynamic fights,but it fumbles really hard when it came to Jay

you see, this happens when you have three characters on a team whose combo color is blue (with zane, nya too). In any case I would say that Nya should be the only one whose secondary color is blue/cyan, Zane can be silver/gray or pink, and Jay should be bluish purple (also that combo resembles the nightfury plasma blast in httyd and looks beautiful)

yellow on him just looks... ugly. Imo his his wolf gi looks better if it has more golden tones instaed of yellow. It also doesn't make much sense for his powers to go from being blue throughout the series to being yellow when the yellow lightning is much less hot than the blue one but that's just me. I know a lot of people say this is intentional to show his lack of experience with his powers but it really seems like it'll be a permanent thing from now on.

[olderthannetfic]

I feel like people won't like this question but not knowing the answer bothers me, so here goes. I'm part of a small writing community and in my category (original m/m) I'm a really small author, getting one comment per chapter, while others have 100+ comments for the same amount of chapters. These are usually the type of stories that are darker with elements of rape and seme/uke dynamics and feature maffia bosses, sex slaves, hybrids, A/B/O and the like. These are not my cup of tea but I understand the id explanation and fully support it, I just don't understand how my id can be so different from the majority's.

My favourite dynamic is bad boy with a golden heart/fairly normal guy, so that's what I write most often and I thought this was a popular dynamic. Within that dynamic, my stories are pretty eclectic, I've got old butler/young groom, prince/court painter, ghost hunter youtuber/ghost, PE teacher/math teacher, I write about adults, teenagers, boys, girls, etc. What is it that's so appealing in maffia stories but not in mine?

Obviously I'm motivated by jealousy in asking this, but I hope I don't come off as too unpleasant or pretentious. I just don't understand what the barrier is that I can't step over, what it is that makes these other authors so popular. It's disheartening to realise I will never be as popular as them, and not knowing why. (Of course I know the obvious answer is to just write whatever makes me happy and don't think about popularity and numbers, find friends with similar tastes, etc., but I do that most of the time and in asking this, I'm just interested in how other people see the issue, what might be the reason behind the majority's taste.)

I think all of the writers in question can tell a story fairly well, me included, so I can only think the difference is in the topics we choose. (Also in sappy declarations of love and the characters constantly calling each other "sweetheart" and "my love" that sounds kind of cringey in my native language but I can't imagine people are not interested in my stories because they don't contain tearful love confessions. There's plenty of romance there, though less and less explicit sex.) So can anybody tell me what makes these darker topics so much more appealing? Maybe if I understood, I would be less bothered by it.

(You're also free to tell me I'm a wanker and to come off it, of course.)

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Haha. Well... I think a certain amount of professional jealousy or at least insecurity is common, especially if you're hoping to pay your rent or gain clout or something and it isn't happening for you (yet). (I'm unclear if your original m/m niche is one where people are seeking money or not.)

I don't feel bad when other people are more popular because I know my shit is good. If it hasn't found an audience, it's partly because my marketing isn't good (or existent) or because it just takes time to find an audience. But a lot of it has to do with my native personality. I'm just not a jealous person, and I find jealousy odd and confusing most of the time. (Cue a bunch of fiction exploring jealous characters. Haha.)

There are some interesting side topics to discuss here, but your question, taken exactly as phrased, is basically about your own emotions and not about external reality.

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It sounds to me from what you wrote here like maybe you're writing in your native language?

But if you are writing in English, watch out for little pitfalls like "heart of gold" vs. "golden heart".

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Second... what do you mean "majority"? Do you honestly think that everyone, everywhere likes runny assholes and mafia rape?

If the community you hang out in all prefers a/b/o to what you like to write, your answer is right there: You have chosen to hang out with the wrong people, courting the wrong audience.

That says nothing about whether somebody somewhere else prefers lighthearted bad boy stories.

In the professional m/m novelist circles I've seen (the type where people only publish complete books, not serialized things), contemporary romance is one of the categories that sells best. I'm not an authority since I loathe contemporary, but it's so very, very popular, probably much more so than any given dark kink trope.

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Third, Wattpad-style mafia stories, a/b/o, hybrids, and suchlike are easy to market.

They have very specific keywords that make it easy for aficionados to find that exact subgenre in order to consume five thousand more of the exact same thing.

Look at conventional romance novels: The most popular and enduring individual books are by Names and are often a little harder to tag, but a lot of what sells at the lower tiers is that "The Greek Billionaire's Virgin Bride" stuff where you figure the actual prose is terrible but it will deliver exactly the tropes you expect and want with no wasting time on shit you don't care about.

'Bad boy with a heart of gold' is fairly easy to tag too, but if that's the only keyword-y bit of your stories, that could be an issue.

If you're writing the sorts of things that live or die by tropes and you don't write explicit sex, that can also be a hindrance.

It's not that everyone wants explicit sex in their books, but if I'm looking for a high volume of average-quality stuff by kink or trope, I probably do.

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This one's more idiosyncratic, but for me personally, if I'm picking up something that's less about delivering specific sex scenes or kink experiences, I probably care more about quality of prose and plot.

I absolutely have a double standard here, and that does extend to iddy-but-not-porny stories in many cases because something like really intense hurt/comfort just won't hit home well enough for me if it isn't up to a certain writing standard.

I also do not tolerate serialization for this type of thing very well where I probably would for a story that has a different fucked up kinky sex scene in every chapter.

Yes, I believe you that you can write a decent story. Can you write a great one?

Lots of the most popular books of all time have some romance without having a lot of soppy pet names or explicit sex, but they're also often a hell of a lot better at mystery or action or sweeping historical epic or charming sense of place or some other thing than I'm guessing these circles you run in are.

I could be wrong. You could be a brilliant writer. But I do wonder if you're hanging out in the right place or comparing yourself to the right authors to achieve whatever your goals actually are.

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A related thing that occurs to me here is that writing about all categories of person is terrible branding.

It works if your selling point is your brilliant plots and prose, especially if you are traditionally published.

It works a hell of a lot less well if your selling point is tropey original m/m with easy keywords in an online context. Why would that audience suddenly want a f/f version of the same thing? They might, but they very well might not. If they like young protagonists, maybe they don't also like old ones. etc.

When people are filtering down and down and down by keywords, having a diverse oeuvre is not an asset unless you are head and shoulders above all the other writers around.

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We can also talk about why people like darker tropes over lighter ones, but I think you have some assumptions and some marketing!fail to unpack here.

But the short version of my answer is that some of the darker tropes still have a lot of zing and inherent drama even in the hands of a mediocre writer, while a fairly banal contemporary romance setup needs a higher degree of skill to inject life into it.

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Anyone else have thoughts?