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leviathansshadycorner · 8 months ago

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Rope Him In ( Cato x District 10! Reader x slight! Marvel) Pt. 7

Summary: Interview

A/n: Sorry for any inconsistencies and spelling errors, enjoyyyyyy!

Pt.6Pt.5 Pt.4 Pt.3 Pt.2 Pt.1

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Chapter 7: Interview

The games were Tomorrow. Today was your last day of peace and possibly life. Most of the time today was supposed to be spent preparing for the interview, however, Dolly and Rasmey gave you two or three hours of bliss before having to prepare.

You were positive Buckley was out in the rose garden with Dolly. It was only natural for him to want to be outside instead of cooped in like you. Ramsey had come in to check on you twice but eventually stopped when he assumed you were sleeping. In reality, you were crying. Crying the whole two hours mourning the fact that you’d never get to see the faces of your family again.

You remembered Amaranto and how the two of you would’ve been having breakfast together at this time. Or how you would have packed your Pa a lunch to take to work. You thought about those Sunday afternoons spent sitting on the dry grass with a blanket, just the three of you talking about life and reminiscing about your mother, occasionally eating something special when they’d work overtime.

You thought about the times you spent with Clarabell in the angry rivers, scared out of your mind that a peacekeeper would come and hurt you both, but having so much fun in the water that you forgot that they even existed in the first place.

Your mind went to Buckley. It was crazy how you went from greeting each other in the morning at school to being with each other every day. He looked out of place in the Capitol, and so did you. It was odd seeing someone from home on the screen, but you guessed that’s how he felt about you too. The two of you had grown closer than you would have ever at home. That’s when you started realizing that you should’ve appreciated everything you had at home instead of slowly isolating yourself as you grew up.

Wiping the snot from your nose you decided to get up and wash your face. The clock read 12, and that meant it was time for your mentors to get you interview-ready. The actual interview itself was to start at 6 pm. However, you still had to practice your speech and what you were going to say to several different questions. The whole point was to make you appealing to not only the sponsors but the Capitol as a whole. After all, the sooner the tributes get used to the Capitol’s mannerisms, the better the victor will adapt.

“Alright, let's try this again.” It had been thirteen minutes and Pradain was still struggling to get you to sit up straight.

“Come on, we started an hour ago, I’m sure they can learn how to sit up straight later. What’s important is that we get them to speak clearly and with charm.” Dolly protested as Pradain pressed a hand to your back to get you upright.

Pradain’s outfit consisted of satin gloves, and a matching dress that towered to his ankles, his feet adorned with five-inch platforms. It was beyond you how he had learned to walk in those.

“Don’t be ridiculous Dolly, this is a must when it comes to Capitol mannerisms. Now up!” Groaning you forcefully sat up, your shoulders still drooping.

“Ah! See- I thought you were shaped weird, but you’re just not lifting your shoulders.” He clasped his hands onto them, bringing them up and fixing your head’s posture. “See? That wasn’t too bad. Now let’s do it again.” He instructed,

You looked over at Buckley- who had a scarf tied around him and the chair, propping him up straight. “I think I got it.” The poor boy pleaded to be untied.

“You stay. And you,” He pointed at you, “Up!”

Ramsey rolled his eyes. “Alright well, I’m just gonna go ahead and start reading these questions. Ramsey was already dressed in his suit claiming that he didn’t want to put it on later, so he decided to put it on now.

He shuffled through some cards with common interview questions. “Alright, Buck-o this one’s for you. How would you describe home?”

Buckley perked up, “Easy- Home is-”

“AH! This isn’t a test, it's an interview. Tell them why you like home, what makes it special. Start with, ‘Well, home to me is-’” Pradain scolded Buckley.

“Right, ok.” He nodded and looked at Ramsey to reread the card.

“How would you describe home?” You looked over at Dolly, your face bored and uninterested. She noticed it and ushered you to pay attention to Buckley, sitting up straight which reminded you to sit up as well. Your back was on fire, you always thought you had an okay posture, but only now knew that it was too forward leaning.

“Home to me is..” He stopped to think, his nose twitching as he was lost in thought, “Home to me is the yellow sunset, the dirt on my boots after a long day of work, the voices of my siblings arguing over a small toy, the pretty girls fluttering their eyelashes at me, the way their hair falls on their shoulders, and how round their-”

“Okay, no stop- you’re getting distracted.” You laughed at Buckley’s response, starting nicely but going off-topic.

“Alright then, at least you’ll make them laugh. You’ve got a good voice too Buckley, nice start.” Dolly tried making the best of things.

“Same Question for you (Y/n). How would you describe home?” Ramsey put the cards down, his tired eyes looking at you as he waited for your response.

“Any time now.” Spoke up Pradain.

“Home to me is…Home to me is.” There was about a three-second pause, “My Brother. My Pa. Our little house by the wheat fields, and the river that runs through 10.” It wasn’t much, but it’s all that could come to mind.

“That’s a start.” Dolly smiled.

“We need you to say more, and don’t be afraid to get emotional, the Capitol loves that. They eat it up.” Ramsey crossed his legs. “We’re gonna have a long day.” He sighed.

4 pm came quicker than anticipated. In the period you’d been practicing you were able to learn to project your voice, and Buckley learned how to be quieter. The two of you learned some fancy words, though you doubted you’d use them in a genuine sentence.

Sashay and the rest of the stylists waited for you down at the stylist quarters where you were ready to get replucked like a chicken. It didn’t hurt as much as the first time, but the stinging feeling was still there. After you got bathed, they began working on your hair. Its (H/c) color being amplified and made brighter as they put some chemicals on it. It smelled foul, far worse than the cow poop at home.

Your nails were painted black and white, You mentally groaned knowing where this was going. When your hair was finally dried they worked to braid it, putting some turquoise accessories on you before handing you to Sashay.

She smiled brightly at you and kissed your cheek, “My my don’t you look beautiful.” She complimented taking your hand and leading you to the hanger where a long sleek cow print dress hung. It looked to have fur on it, and you assumed it’d come from home.

“You’re going to look amazing.” She said excitedly as she instructed you to take your robe off. Sashay herself was dressed in all black, contrasting with what Dolly was wearing- white. You assumed the whole theme surrounding 10 would be cow print, and you were right. She helped you put the dress on, making some adjustments while it was on you so it would hug your figure better. It draped down longer on one end, the other end having a slit and exposing much of your leg. Below you wore some high-heeled boots that you thought looked ridiculous, but Sashay seemed enamored by them. She adjusted a belt on your hips- also containing hints of turquoise, and finally a necklace on you, tying the look together.

“Oh!” She sighed clasping her hands together, “(Y/n), when you go home I guarantee you every man will want your hand in marriage.” She cooed as she circled you. “Perfect, now all we need is makeup.” The lady sat you down for another hour and a half of makeup application. You liked Sashay, she was more level-headed than Pradain and had such eloquence to her, however, the mix of having to speak in front of millions, and the games being tomorrow was not settling in right. Ramsey had to ask Pradain for a pill that would calm down your stomach.

Sashay was escorting you out to the backstage area where Dolly and Ramsey were waiting. Ramsey was wearing black, Pradain opting to wear white, both of them sticking to the theme Pradain and Sashay had planned. You looked around for Buckley but he was nowhere in sight.

“Wow.” Ramsey let out a long whistle, “You do not look like yourself at all.” He said admiring Sashay’s work.

“(Y/n), you look stunning.” Dolly’s mouth was agape as she went to hold your arm and observe you. Your hair had been taken out of the braids, leaving behind curls in its place.

“I can’t walk in these.” You whispered to her frantically. You didn’t want to fall on stage, but that seemed like something that would happen in your near future.

She laughed, her smokey eyes closing making it look like she had hollowed eyes, “It’ll be fine, just try not to think about it.” She assured you.

The stage was light as people began to flood the venue. There were stagehands all over the place, getting things set and ready. More tributes flowed in, you shrank back when you realized how extra Sashay had been with your interview gown since the others looked to be more playful and simple. People kept staring at you as they walked in, and that was a bad thing in your book. Eventually, Buckley came in. His stylist next to him as they chatted about god knows what. When he spotted you he froze slightly, keeping his gaze on you as they made their way to the group.

His hair was slicked back, his face looking more square but in a good way. He had some makeup on, but it was only to even out his tone, his freckles had been redrawn over his real ones since the base of his makeup had covered them. He wore a black suit, with hints of cow print on the inner side and flaps that poked out towards the neck of the suit. His boots matched yours, and he had a belt as big as one of the screens on. The two of you looked like you ran some sort of Texan Casino.

“(Y/n), You look beautiful.” He complimented, his hands taking yours as he made you spin. “I almost didn’t recognize you.” He said light-heartedly.

Buckley’s attention made you flustered and you felt the room get warmer, “I could say the same,” You smiled, “Have you seen your hair?” You asked carefully, poking his gel-held hair.

“Alright well, we’ll be out in the front row. Look for us alright?” Sashay excused herself and Pradain, leaving the two of you with Dolly and Rasmey.

“They’re gonna line you up again, two lines- boys and girls.” Ramsey explained, “There’s a screen back here so y’all can watch but don’t miss your cue alright?” He ordered. The two of you nodded.

“(Y/n), remember what we went over alright?” Dolly caught your gaze.

Previously you’d spent time with Dolly going over some things you could do to emphasize your image as the Capitol’s cowgirl. Dolly had instructed you to speak with more southern twang than usual, keep a smile and hospitable personality, and speak on the livestock and ‘ranch life’ back at home. All things that would make a District 10 resident roll their eyes, but a Capitol citizen clap and shout. Unfortunately for you, you knew that this whole act would blow up in your face. You wouldn’t get taken seriously by the tributes, and if the small chance of you winning existed, you’d have to keep up the stereotype.

Your mentors left you to take their seats. There was about an hour until show time, and some makeup artists stuck back to touch up some of the tributes. You and Buckley paced around the backstage, practicing lines with each other, and working on pronunciation. You hadn’t even noticed that the careers had flowed in. Glimmer was wearing a pink poofy dress, far too short for her. The only thing that distracted from her body was her giant blonde hair that cascaded perfectly, but even then she wore body glitter that made her shine. Clove on the other hand wore an orange dress and a hairdo that puffed the top part of her hair up. The two looked at you and laughed, making it obvious that they were laughing at your gown. You couldn’t blame them though. You would’ve laughed at yourself too. Buckley defensively went to stand in front of you to block their view, but it didn’t do much since they’d have to walk past you anyway.

Behind them came Marvel and Cato. Both their faces were serious as always as they discussed something about weapon quality. You paid no mind to them, knowing that if you did they’d find a way to cause a scene. You weren’t sure why you were their favorite tribute to a bug, but you blamed it all on your stunt on your first day here. As they walked closer Marvel patted Cato on his chest, and the taller male turned to look at where you were standing.

“Damn, never knew the girls from District 10 could look like that,” Cato said as they walked past the two of you, pretending to be nonchalant although you knew he had purposely said it.

“Nice dress 10,” Marvel said, eyeing you as he trailed behind Cato. The two of them shook their heads and laughed as they approached the front of the line.

“If I were a career I think I’d go after those two first.” You told Buckley who gave you an amused smile.

“If you were a career you’d be with them.” He corrected. It wasn’t far from the truth. In almost every game, the careers were quick to form alliances with each other, alienating the weak from the strong.

“You ready for the spotlight?” Talking was something you’ve come to realize that you did when you were nervous. Your hand practically shook, and you wore a nervous smile on your face. It was involuntarily there, however as much as you tried you couldn’t get rid of it.

“No.” His simple reply. “Not too thrilled about it.” He exhaled. He had been holding a straight posture, his shoulders up, turtling his neck.

“They’ll love you.” You reassured, but it only made him smile, his nerves still present.

“Just don’t want to be laughed at.” He mentioned.

The lights were beginning to flicker, meaning that it would soon be time for the show to start.

You thought about what he had said. “Trust me. No one’s going to laugh at you.” Dolly and you had trained for your interview. Everything you were instructed to say made you look like a country bumpkin. If anything Buckley would be District 10’s saving grace- and you its fool.

“Wow. You look beautiful.” Came the voice of District 12’s Katniss. It sounded rehearsed, void of any emotion. The same went for the smile she threw at you.

You returned it and bowed your head. “Please, you’re the one who deserves such praise.” You guessed she was only saying that because her mentors wanted her to make allies in the arena since her high score presented a problem.

That was the entirety of the exchange. The stage managers lined everyone up in order of appearance, hushing them as the presentation started. Once again you found the insides of your palms to be sweaty. You tried everything to ease your beating heart, deep breaths, pinching yourself, thinking of other things. However, none of them got rid of the sensation in your stomach. You felt like throwing up.

Up on the screen Caesar Flickerman’s silhouette appeared, his signature ponytail obnoxiously hanging from his head as he leaned back on the chair. His theme song played, the bass so loud you could feel the floor rumbling. Cheers from the crowd erupted. Buckley stood attentive, watching the screen with his hands on his belt, his stance wide to keep himself in balance. From where you stood you could see Marvel and Cato hyping each other up, Glimmer joining in to fix Cato’s neat suit.

“Let’s bring her out!” It had been a good couple of minutes, though it seemed like seconds as Caesar called out for Glimmer. She was the first one to go. Leaving about 19 people ahead of you. You watched as her clear, shimmery dress bounced as she stepped onto the stage with a huge smile, waving to the crowd. Her hair effortlessly dropped into place, making her look all the more attractive. The crowds were loud. Your eardrums could only handle so much before you reached out to cover them.

Eventually, it was Marvel’s turn. He seemed so confident in everything he said, you learned just how charismatic he could be. Clove went next, her interview only made you more cautious of her. Soon after it was Cato’s turn. Unlike Marvel, he gave off boisterous energy. Almost as if he was too good to be there. However, the crowd was eating it up. He ended his interview with a hollar and returned backstage. It was almost the two-hour mark, some interviews taking longer since he wanted to give the tributes who didn’t stand out some limelight. Eventually, it was your turn.

The stage manager came back to look for you, their hand on your shoulder as they walked you up the stairs. You glanced back to catch the reassuring gaze of Buckley, but instead found Marvel’s. He gave you a wink as a token of good luck, and off you were.

“Now I’m sure we all remember our next tribute from the tribute parade. I mean how could we forget after the thrilling act she performed!” Flickerman emphasized his words, stretching them at the appropriate time.

A couple of ‘woos’ and whistles came from the crowd as the anticipation built up. “From district 10- (Y/n) Cuernos!” He announced your cue to cross the stage. The lights were extremely bright, you had to look down as you stepped onto the stage. The crowd cheered at your out-of-place attire, it being one of the most unique (and ridiculous) outfits of the night. Shyly you put on your best smile before catching a glimpse of Dolly in the crowd, making gestures for you to smile bigger.

You cringed when you thought of your family back at home watching this. Saying a silent apology, it was as if a switch turned on in your brain. Suddenly, your teeth shone as you stretched your lips into a smile, fluttering the huge eyelashes your makeup team glued onto you. With a hand on your hip, the other one waving, you swayed like you saw glimmer doing, your dress’ fabric swishing in the gap your legs left as you strode.

“(Y/n)! My, my, how you clean up!” Flickerman commented, standing to greet you.

“Thank you, Caesar.” Your eye nearly twitched at the forced southern twang in your voice. It was a whole lot more than Buckley, who had a natural southern accent, you had close to nothing of an accent. Even when it did slip, it sounded nothing like this. “My stylist purtied me up didn’t they?”

He looked to the crowd, “Indeed they did.” He motioned for you to sit.

It helped that the stage lights practically blinded you. You could see that people were sitting in the stands, but you weren’t able to make out distinct features- save for the front row where the mentors sat.

Remembering what Dolly had told you, you sat up straight, teeth-baring into a cheesy smile.

“Did that print you’re wearing come from a cow you raised?” The presenter’s teeth glinted in the light as the crowd erupted in laughter, “Oh! ‘course not- just inspired by them.” You giggled back, hating yourself even more. Your heart was beating hoping the president would accept your performance.

Flickerman adjusted himself in his seat, “Now, I was going to leave this question for last- but I just know the audience has been anticipating the answer, am I right?” He turned to the audience who were cheering blindly.

Like a doll in a box you smiled stationary, waiting for him to ask the question, but of course, he needed to prolong it for suspense. “What was going through your mind when you rode that steed?” There were some woo’s from the crowd, and you watched yourself on the screen as they replayed the moment. That clip gave you an ego boost each time you saw it. Giggling a bit too nervously you shook your head. “Nothing.” That earned a laugh from the audience. “I just remember wanting to ride it- couldn’t help myself I guess.” You gave a small shrug.

“What a wildflower this one is.” Caesar made some amused faces.

The interview lasted for another couple of questions, he seemed to have a lot for you. He asked you about home life, your loved ones, Buckley, and about skills. You didn’t have as many questions as the careers, but it was more than District 8’s tributes who had the least.

“And do you have a strategy to win the games?” His tone was more serious now.

Here it was. Your closing line. The one that took you and Dolly two seconds to come up with, but would echo in the minds of the audience.

“I’m from District 10. I’m a born and bred cowgirl. I have to win. ”

Cato couldn't help but smirk at your response, crossing his arms and leaning on the wall, he watched with attentive eyes as your interview continued.

His open mouth smile followed by “woah woah woah!” made the stadium rumble. You smiled and waved out to the crowd, Dolly giving you a thumbs up.

“That’s an ambitious statement! I love it!” He did a little kick, “Well, you go out there and rope them in (Y/n) Cuernos! District 10’s very own cowgirl!”

If only you could see Cato’s pissed-off face next to Marvel’s smug one.

As you walked backstage again you were greeted with a bone-crushing hug from your fellow tribute. “Hey, that was good! Though you were a little strong on the accent.” Buckley patted your back.

“Yeah, I had no idea you had one.” Glimmer teased as she and the other careers leaned against the wall. “Stop trying to win them over, I’m already the Capitol’s sweetheart.” The tall girl crossed her arms, the jewels in her dress reflecting.

Marvel came around you, making space between you and Buckley who knew better than to cause a scene. “Did they make you skin that cow yourself?” His fingers scraped the waist of your dress, he let out an “O” when he realized it was just fabric.

Cato gave him a look, causing him to back off. “You have to win huh? How do you think you’re going to do that?”

“Don’t worry about it.” You refused to look at him.

“Oh, I’m not worried. You see if anyone should be worried about you.” He sneered, his gaze getting darker. “Save yourself the disappointment, enjoy your time in the Capitol, and accept your fate. I’m winning this one.”

“As if.” Clove rolled her eyes.

Buckley and you both stared down Cato.

He snickered, “And don’t go around thinking your friend here is going to help you. If you’ve been doing your research you know that there’s no such thing as friends in the arena.”

That irked Buckley, “So who’s to say your little posse won’t turn on you and gang up on you in the arena?”

“Pft, then let’s hope they can outrun me.” His response made the careers shift uncomfortably.

“We knew what we were doing when we signed up.” Marvel spoke up,” It’s our job to ween off the weak ones, so the strongest can prevail.” He said looking at you.

“So is that what Cato’s going to do to you?” You didn’t mean for it to be a comeback. It just came out that way. The careers looked pissed now, but a stage manager came just in time to lead them back to their mentors.

“Watch it 10.” Cato’s wild grin didn’t deter you, you continued to stare him down.

Just like that, your time at the Capitol was coming to an end.

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Tags: @randomgurl2326

#fanfic #xreader #reader insert #x cato #cato hadley #the hunger games fanfiction #74th hunger games #the hunger games #katniss everdeen #marvel #romance #tribute #district 10 #xtribute reader #peeta mellark #coriolanus snow #jack quaid #x reader

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broken-glowsticks · 11 months ago

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What Once Was Mine

Chapter 12 - Missing you

Genre: Childhood friends, Eventual Friends to Lovers, Slow Burn, Love corner/love triangle, love rivals, Series.

Not all chapters will be proofread!!

Warnings: 18+, mdni, mentions of sex and alcohol consumption, additional warnings will be added to individual chapters as needed.

Previous • Main • Next

It took hours before you fell into a fitful sleep only for the overly eager sun to wake you up way too soon for your liking. You had debated over calling in sick from work, but what would be the point? Felix had classes, and you knew damn well how busy Chan, Changbin, and Jisung were. You even, for a fleeting moment, thought about reaching out to Hyunjin but had ultimately decided against it. You truly couldn't bring yourself to bother anyone it seemed and thus dragged yourself from bed, resigning to your pitiful fate and jumping into a tolerably cold shower before dressing for what you knew was going to be a shitty day. And shitty it was.

The moment you started your lunch break, you had escaped to your car, needing desperately to be out of that brick and mortar prison. It was only when you had managed to relax a bit that you pulled out your phone and noticed Changbin had sent you a few texts throughout the morning.

❤️✨️My Dwaekki🐇🐽: Good morning, my pretty princess. I'm so sorry for not texting you until now.

❤️✨️My Dwaekki🐇🐽: I wished you were next to me when I woke up. I miss you, Bunny. I hate not getting to see you.

❤️✨️My Dwaekki🐇🐽: I guess you're at work. Otherwise, you would have answered me? I asked Han, but he didn't know for sure. I guess neither of us has really had the time to see you, huh? I'm really sorry about that, Bunny.

❤️✨️My Dwaekki🐇🐽: Let me know the next time you're free. Let's go on a date. I left my princess alone when I said I'd spoil her, I swear I'll make it up. Any day, just say when.

You stared intently at his string of messages, trying not to let yourself get overly emotional. You had been so lonely these past few days, the only respite being those few genuinely platonic moments between you and Hyunjin right up until the almost-kiss and the day before with Felix. You didn't want to bother your swamped boyfriend with your melancholy feelings, doing your best to put on a smile for him, but yet here he was saying how he has been missing you too. Maybe he's been missing you just as much as you've been missing him, if not more.

You stopped yourself before you made yourself any more sad and quickly pulled up your work schedule. Fuck it. It was Tuesday today, so you had decided you would ride out today and tomorrow and call in sick for the rest of the week. You missed your boyfriend, and he missed you, so you were going to see him - whatever it took.

○●☆♡☆●○

My girl: Thursday to Sunday, I'm all yours. I'll take whatever you can give. I miss you, Binnie 💋

Changbin sat in his studio chair, eyes fixed on your text. It was the only reply you had sent, and yet it held so much weight.

Thursday to Sunday. Four days, four full days that he knew you had set aside just for him. He knew your work hours well enough to know you must have made some kind of arrangements to get Thursday and Friday off, and you never worked weekends.

Fuck, Changbin meant it when he told you to just say the word and he'd be there. He would do whatever it took to see you again, but the fact that you set aside four whole days just to “take whatever he can give” simultaneously almost broke his heart and made him fall even deeper into his still massive crush on you.

“Has Y/N replied to you yet?” Jisung asked from his desk chair, his eyes still trained on the computer in front of him.

“Yeah, she did.”

“And…?” Chan asked from the couch on the other side of the small room, his gaze lifting from the screen of his laptop.

“How do you guys feel about me inviting her to the studio on Thursday?”

“I'm amazed you didn't think of it before,” Han said with a slight chuckle.

“Of course she can come, just don't make out right in front of us,” Chan teased with a sincere smile, causing Changbin to laugh.

“No promises, boss.”

○●☆♡☆●○

You could feel your heart pounding as you waited in the lobby of a large building, twiddling with the straps of your large bag. 3racha may own the studio space, but it still resided on only one floor of a massive mixed-use building. A building where you couldn't just freely enter without clearance. Which led to you waiting nervously in the lobby as the receptionist for the entire building phoned for one of the boys, needing confirmation that you were indeed an expected guest before she could give you a day pass.

“Miss Y/N? I have confirmation, I just need your signature to validate your day pass.”

“Yes, of course,” you replied, swiftly making your way to the front desk and scrawlling your signature onto the provided document before the receptionist led you behind her desk and up against a blue square so a photo could be taken and added to your day pass. You didn't look unkempt, but you were definitely feeling underdressed in your light sweater and shorts when you walked into the building's main lobby, and that feeling only doubled once your picture was taken.

“Here you are, ma'am, the office you're looking for will be on floor three. Have a nice day.”

With a small nod to the receptionist, you made your way to the closest elevator. You could feel yourself starting to get jittery with excitement as the elevator took you to the third floor. You didn't think you would get to see Changbin again so soon, not only that you were also going to see Jisung and Chan, too. You felt bad Felix couldn't join. It had been way too long since all of you were able to spend time together.

The elevator stopped with a ding, causing you to jolt slightly. Quickly, you scrambled out of the metal box, expecting to instantly come across the boys' studio. Unfortunately for you, their studio wasn't the only room on this floor, and, for some god forsaken reason, none of the doors were marked with any kind of name plate. Who the hell designed this? Checking your phone, you noticed you had spotty cell signal at best and absolutely nothing at worst. Great, how were you supposed to find these guys? Go from door to door? The idea did not appeal to you.

You paced the hallway a few times before gently pressing your ear to each of the doors in hopes of hearing something - anything. Music, a familiar voice, hell even an unmistakably unfamiliar voice to help whittle down your choices and increase your chances of knocking on the right door.

You groaned, now standing on the other end of the hall, right next to the elevator where you initially started, arms crossed and foot impatiently tapping on the carpeted floor. You really didn't want to do this, but your pride was wearing thin the longer you floundered around the building corridor. Bouncing your gaze about for a moment you finally chose a door to knock on, however as soon as you took a step towards your chosen door, the one on the complete opposite side of the hall opened and out came Changbin.

“Bunny, there you are!”

“Oh my god, Binnie!” You cried out, relieved you didn't have to sacrifice your dignity and excited to finally get to lay eyes on your boyfriend who you haven't gotten to see in some time.

Before you knew it, you had run, full force, towards your boyfriend's growing smile, propelling yourself into his open arms. Changbins’ hold on you was tight as he spun you around, taking in your scent and your giggles as he set you down but didn't let you go. God had he missed you. Now that you were here, Changbin didn't want to go back into the studio. He just wanted to take you home and bury himself into his blankets with you pressed against him. He guessed just getting to hold you as tightly as he could in this quiet hallway would have to do.

“What took you so long? I was getting worried,” Changbin murmured into your hair.

“There are no name plates on these stupid doors,” you complained, pulling away to pout up at him.

“Ah, you're right. I'm sorry, baby, I should have told you. It slipped my mind,” Changbin said gently, taking your face in one of his hands and stroking your jutted lip with his thumb.

“You owe me a better apology than that, I almost went knocking from door to door to look for you,” you said, taking in Changbins’ messy curly hair, his round and wire framed glasses, and his comfy, sleeveless black shirt. He looked so adorable and completely irresistible.

“Oh, really?” He chuckled in response, dipping down to bump his nose against yours, “I hope this is enough then, my princess.” Changbins lips were soft, and kissing him again felt like finally getting to breathe again. You didn't care that you were in an open hallway and that anybody could walk out at any moment and see you. Being without Changbin felt agonizing, and you were going to savor every second you could get.

“Am I forgiven yet?” He asked against your lips and gave a breathy laugh that made your knees go weak when you refused him.

“More,” you demanded, arms wrapped around his neck and your fingers toying with the curls at the nape of his neck.

“As you wish,” Changbin replied with a silly grin, a hand sliding down to rest on your ass. “Chan said I'm not allowed to make out with you in front of him, so I guess I'm just going to have to do it now before we go in. We might be out here a while.”

“They can wait. Right now, you're mine.”

“Only yours,” Changbin replied before catching your lips in another kiss.

○●☆♡☆●○

“Oh there you two are, I thought we were going to have to send out Search and Rescue to find you two,” Han quipped the moment you and Changbin walked into the studio. “They'd probably find you two smashing or something,” he added under his breath as he swiveled back to his computer.

“And I thought it would be nice if I brought you guys snacks, but I guess my stupid roommate isn't gonna get any now after that last quip that I totally heard.”

“Wait, no, wait, I take that back. I want snacks,” Jisung said hastily, whirling around and reaching for your bag, which he presumed had the aforementioned snacks.

“Say sorry first, you twerp!” You said, yanking the bag away from Jisungs hands.

“NO!” Hisung cried, and before you knew it, he had lunged on you from his seat, causing you to falter, lose balance, and land on a black couch you didn't notice behind you. All you could register was the cackling laughter of Chan and Changbin as Jisung wrestled and tickled you for your bag of snacks. You weren't just taking it, though, twisting and jerking your body every which way you could to keep Jisung from getting your bag.

“Are either of you going to help?!” You shouted but were only met with more laughter.

The two of you struggled for a few more minutes before Changbin decided to finally give you some aid. Wrapping his arms around Jisung, who had effectively crawled on top of your hunched figure, Changbin lifted his friends in the air and carried him back to his chair.

“Alright, Han, leave my girlfriend alone.”

“Hey, no fair, you were my friend first.”

“Boyfriend trumps friend when that friend is about to crush everyone's snacks,” Changbin said with a grin. Meanwhile, behind him, you had unfurled to stick your tongue out at Jisung, causing him to frown.

“Fine, Traitor. I gotta get back to this beat anyway,” Jisung pouted, sliding a pair of headphones over his ears.

“Aish, he's not gonna forgive me for taking your side,” Changbin said lightheartedly, settling next to you and slinging an arm over your shoulders. “Can I convince you to forgive him and give him some snacks?”

You mulled the idea over for a moment before nodding, handing the bag to Changbin.

“You give it to him,” you whispered, “pretend you swiped them from me. He loves stealing my food.”

“Okay,” he whispered back with a chuckle, pressing a quick kiss to your temple as he took the bag and rummaged through it to pick out one he thought Han would like the most.

He waited a bit, waiting until you went and talked to Chan to sell the charade before he threw a snack at Hans head. Han swiveled his chair around, initially ready to fight whoever threw something at his head, only for his mouth to seal itself tightly and his eyes to widen when he saw Changbin with the bag.

“Look down,” Changbin mouthed, pointing at the candy that lay on the floor behind Han and flashing a cute pose.

Han smiled, his eyes darting to you before quickly snatching up the candy and mouthing a thank you to his friend. Just like that, all was forgiven between the two, and you tried your best not to let on that you and Chan were subtly watching by giggling.

The day passed surprisingly quickly, filled with silly squabbles that were remedied as soon as they were sparked, jokes and razzing, Changbin acting cute, snacks being eaten, bouts of quiet as the boys busied themselves with work only for a stray groan to break the silence and start up short conversations again. It felt like a breath of fresh air, all of you being together again. The only thing missing was Felix. Maybe he could come over later after his classes? It doesn't seem like he would be in the way. After all, it's not as if any clients have come in all day. Why was that?

“We like to set aside days to work on personal projects or just hammer out details for ongoing projects with clients,” Chan explained, not once looking up from his laptop. "Also, some of our clients hired us to actually write the music as well as produce it, so that takes a lot of time as well.”

“Wow, no wonder you guys have been so busy. With all of that, you really have a lot on your plate.”

“Uhg, tell me about it,” Jisung groaned, slipping off his headphones and sliding down his seat. “I miss having free time.”

“I miss having you guys around,” you admit, tucking your legs into the oversized jacket Changbin lent you earlier

Another silence settled between the four of you, and you regretted opening your mouth. However, the boys all felt sympathetically. They missed the group hanging out. It didn't feel right for three of the five of you to be constantly working, leaving the other two in the dust. While this uptick in business is great for 3racha's career, it’s not so great for their personal lives.

The silence was abruptly broken by someone’s stomach growling.

“I guess snacks aren't a good replacement for a good meal,” you chuckled, grabbing your bag and pulling out your wallet. “I'll go get us some food.”

“Changbin, go with her,” Jisung said as soon as you had grabbed your wallet, surprising you both.

“Don't you need him?”

“Oh god, don't start, just get out of here. I need a break from you two eye fucking each other from across the room,” Jisung said with feign annoyance, but when his eyes met Changbins’, Jisung gave him a wink and a thumbs up. Even after the official start of you two dating, Han was still by his friends side doing everything he could for you two.

“Don't have to tell me twice,” Changbin grinned, snagging his wallet and yanking on the shoes he discarded about an hour or two after you arrived.

“Everyone fine with pizza?” You asked, taking Changbins hand into yours and making your way to the door.

“Bring Korean corn dogs too!” Chan called out before the door closed. You chuckled. Normally, you would complain about having to drive to two different places for food, but right now, that meant more alone time with your Binnie, and you were not going to say no to that.

“You want me to put in the order for everything now?” Changbin asked as the elevator returned you to the lobby. You shook your head.

“Let's wait until we get to the pizza place, I want as much time with you as possible,”

Changbin simply replied with a giggle and a press of his lips to yours. You had a feeling you were going to get a lot of kisses before you made it back to the studio and, boy, how right you were. At every opportunity Changbin had himself wrapped around you, his lips trailing over every available glimpse of your skin, his hands running over everywhere else. The only time he wasn't all over you was when he stole your keys and drove you to his favorite pizza place, which, surprisingly, wasn't that far from the studio.

Once he had paid for parking, the two of you made your way inside, and Changbin hugged you from behind, his arms wrapping comfortably around your middle as you decided on what pizza to get for everyone

“Maybe a meat lovers’?” He suggested, placing his chin on your shoulder and swaying your bodies side to side, causing you to giggle.

“What about a Supreme? I think that has a little bit of something for everyone.”

“Sure, just no olives,” Changbin murmured in reply, his nose nuzzling into your neck, tickling the skin.

“Stop,” you giggled, trying to shrug away.

“No,” you promptly refused, walking the two of you up to the counter to order. Changbin only toned down the affection long enough for you to order once someone came to take your order. The second the worker made their way back to begin your order, Changbin immediately started up his assault on your skin, kissing and nipping at the skin. It tickled, but also you could feel your body heat rising in temperature, and you worried that at any moment someone would come out and see.

“Binnie, stop, someone's gonna see.”

“Nobody's gonna see. This place only ever has a few workers. They won't come out until the pizza's done,” he said in attempts to reassure you, but you still weren't satisfied. “Fine,” he grumbled, his lips pressed right behind your ear.

You assumed he was relenting that he was going to at least wait until the two of you were alone again. That's not what he was doing. Instead, he tightened his grip around your middle and lifted you to a row of seats that were lined up against a nearby wall. You couldn’t help but notice they were placed right next to a section of the wall that jutted out, creating an alcove where even if a worker were to walk out, they wouldn't be able to see anything but your legs from their vantage point. What a sneaky mother fucker your boyfriend was, especially considering that when he set you down he placed you directly next to the protruding section of the wall.

“Think you're being sneaky?” You asked in a coy tone, your lip catching between your teeth as Changbin leaned forward, putting his hand on the protruding wall right next to your head.

“I like to think I can be pretty sneaky when I want to be,” he teased back, his hooded eyes taking in the building color in your cheeks. “Still think someone's gonna see?”

You said nothing, all your focus being pulled towards your boyfriend.

Changbin chuckled, his free hand coming up to draw over your head the hood of his jacket that you were still wearing. You looked so cute in it. He might have to let you have it.

“What about now?” He breathed, slowly leaning in but not closing the gap. You didn't realize when your breathing had sped up, but you did realize the moment you suddenly didn't care if anyone saw. All you cared about was feeling Changbins' lips on yours.

Closing your eyes, you leaned in, slotting your lips over his. Changbin sighed into the kiss, he had been stealing kissing you since you had left the studio, but getting to sit down and properly take in the softness of your plush lips, the lingering sweetness of candy on your breath, the warmth of your skin. If only you weren't in public, he would have you in his arms, on his lap, his hands under your shirt.

You seemed to have read his mind and liked the latter idea because slyly you hand rooted your hands into the hair at the nape of his neck, fisting his raven locks before one hand slid down the back of his neck and slipped under the fabric of his shirt. You were just as lost in him as he was with you. With one hand releasing your hood to caress your cheek, the other hand against the wall by your head, his body beginning to lean over her, all at once you were surrounded in everything that was Changbin.

You were so lost that you didn't notice the bell of the front door ring as someone walked in.

○●☆♡☆●○

Hyunjin sighed in relief as he carded a hand through his newly cropped hair. It had been quite a while since he allowed himself a change in his cut and color. He smiled at himself as he took in his reflection in a nearby window, his hair now short and a dark shade of burgundy. He was hesitant over the short length but was glad he went for it overall. It allowed a proper view of his new brow piercing he had gotten only a couple of days prior. Something about the new look made him feel like he matched the art he had been creating.

With a rumbling tummy, Hyunjin had just one more stop to hit up before going home. Some time during his hair appointment, he had felt the sensation of hunger settling in and had placed an order for pizza from this spot he knew was nestled nearby.

Opening the door, Hyunjin leisurely strolled in, initially missing the couple making out in the chairs nearby as he waved down a worker and told them he had ordered ahead. However, the second he noticed them, he very much wished he hadn't.

‘Gross… Just because the staff can't see you doesn't mean I can't,’ he thought but soon had to check himself, he knew he would be doing the exact same thing with you were he in their place.

The thought of you pulled Hyunjins mood down a bit. Particularly the thought of him kissing you. He had been doing everything in his power to not think of you in that way, especially since the almost-kiss that happened at his place only four days ago. But something about that night had brought every intimate and stolen moment to the forefront of his mind, and, suddenly, he was seeing you everywhere.

Even now, Hyunjin was seeing you in the girl being kissed, hiding in what he presumed to be her boyfriend's hoodie. It was stupid, but Hyunjin wished for a moment that the girl really was you and that he was in the place of the curly haired guy. He wanted to be able to hide away with you one more time, to steal just a few more kisses and to hear more of your shy giggles. If only that guy could be him.

Damn. Was he really getting jealous of strangers right now? Wow, was he getting pathetic. It really didn't help that the girl's legs looked just like yours.

The girl giggled again, and Hyunjin had to physically turn away. Now she was sounding like you, too. Where the hell was his pizza?

Before he could wave down a worker again, Hyunjins eyes darted over to the couple again entirely on their own. Why, he didn't know, all he knew was that when his eyes landed on the “random” couple, his heart cracked. It was you. You and the stupid boyfriend. Hyunjin wondered if you had even noticed that your hood had slipped off your head while you were… having fun. God of all the places, of all the pizza joints, why were you here?

“Y/N?” Hyunjins wavering voice called out to you before he could stop himself, causing you to jolt away from Changbin in surprise.

You didn’t have to look. You knew it was Hyunjin. You knew his voice, having memorized every intonation of it over the years. You couldn't even look at him if you had wanted to. You were too embarrassed. Instead, you squirreled your face away into the crook of Changbins’ neck for protection.

“H-hi Hyunjin,” you squeaked out from your hiding spot. You felt silly hiding from Hyunjin. It's not as if you haven't done worse with him in public places. But at the same time, you also felt like jumping into the pizza oven to be burnt to a crisp. That way, you could avoid the inevitable awkward conversation that was about to come. What was he doing here? Why did he have to catch you kissing Changbin like this? Why did it matter to you so much if you and Hyunjin were just friends now?

“Hwang,” Changbin cut in with a nod of his head, partially in acknowledgment, partially to pull Hyunjins' attention from you.

“Ah, yeah. Hi,” Hyunjin replied stiffly, returning Changbins nod with a curt one of his own but unable to meet the boyfriends eyes. He actually couldn't even bring himself to look at the guy at all.

An awkward silence settled between the three of you, one only broken by a worker pulling Hyunjins attention. It was when you heard Hyunjin speaking to the restaurant worker about how long his food took and being given something extra as compensation that you were able to calm yourself enough to pull your face from Changbins’ neck.

“Still flustered, bunny?” Changbin chuckled, resting back into his chair and pulling you against him with his strong arm. You had only managed to nod as you leaned against Changbins’ strong body, attempting to relax against him as your eyes finally landed on Hyunjin who was only a few feet away from you but felt so much further.

“You changed your hair,” you timidly spoke when Hyunjin finally had his food in hand, “when did that happen?”

Hyunjin paused to look at you and your beet red face, and you couldn't help but notice the red rim to his glassy eyes. Maybe the pain was why he couldn't bring himself to answer you right away. How was he supposed to just talk to you with his heart still aching from watching you kiss someone else? Especially when you looked so comfortable snuggled against The Boyfriends’ side, wearing his hoodie? However, the more he stared at you with that unmistakably hurt gaze, the more unsettled you felt.

“Yo-you also pierced your eyebrow. It looks good on you,” you attempted again, a strained smile pulling at your features. Hyunjins face remained stoic as he continued to stare at you, the air growing stale between you.

This time, it was the sound of Changbin clearing his throat that broke the silence, effectively pulling Hyunjin from his daze. Hyunjin blinked a few moments as if he were refocusing on what was in front of him before turning his gaze away, a hand coming up to scratch at his scalp.

“I just came from the salon, actually. The piercing was the day before yesterday. I was waiting until this weekend to show you. I was hoping I could steal some time to surprise you,” Hyunjin admitted in a hurry, as if trying to make up for the silence he instigated moments earlier.

“Oh, uhm, I'm sorry the surprise got ruined,” you said a little lamely, reaching for Changbins hand as discreetly as possible and squeezing it tightly. Unfortunately, Hyunjin caught this action out of his peripheral vision.

“It's ok, not your fault. Uhm, I gotta go. I don't want my food to get cold,” he said curtly, dashing from the lobby before you could even say goodbye.

“Wait, Hyunjin!” You cried, standing to chase after him but being stopped by the call of your name. The pizza was done, and Hyunjin was long gone.

“Are you okay, Bunny?” Changbin asked as he came up beside you, food in one hand, the other resting comfortingly on your back. You tore your eyes from the door Hyunjin just left through to look at your boyfriend, unsure of how to respond to him.

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So I tried taking a page out of Miyazaki and writing the more quiet moments, but that's hard to balance! They can easily come off as boring, especially in a strictly written medium. Personally, I think it's easier in a visual medium where you can see the characters being in the moment. I hope I could somewhat convey the concept of "ma" at least a little in this chapter.

Now, onto the story, Solars, come and get yo juice! Lmao, also I'm worried I made Hyunjin come off as a little bit of a twerp when that's not what intended. If that's the case, I'll roll with it, but idk, what do you guys think?

Taglist: @groovygroovyhyunjin @hhwangsmoon @luvyblossom @doggezz@kayleefriedchicken @hyunjinhoexxx @zadkielr @bincxtesworld

#stray kids fanfic #bang chan #han jisung #seo changbin #hwang hyunjin x reader #seo changbin x reader #changbin x reader #hyunjin x reader #skz stay #slow burn #lee felix #angst #pining #mutual pining #what once was mine #Glows Fics #series #established relationship

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ourtearsofrain · 7 months ago

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Slow It Down (D.R.W/S.F.K)- Chapter 9

Pairings: Danny Wagner x Sam Kiszka

Genre: angst, fluff

Word Count: 2.2k

Warnings: ouid consumption

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July 25th, 12:56 PM

Closing his bedroom door firmly behind him, Danny drops his bags instantly, not caring if he made too much noise as he drags his feet on the floor on his way to the bed. He falls onto it facedown, letting his body and mind relax now that he was finally completely alone. As much fun Danny was having camping with the Kiszka brothers, the end of their trip could not have come fast enough. Even crammed into the back of Josh’s car with Sam, their knees pressed firmly against each other the entire drive home, had been almost too much for him to handle.

The entire trip had changed Danny’s perspective on Sam, more specifically on how Sam might feel about him. Waking up cuddling Sam that first morning may have been a pure accident, but when Danny woke up every morning after that with him fast asleep in his arms, he didn’t know what to think. Even worse, Sam’s flirty comments only increased as their week went on, going from quiet, joking comments when they were alone to almost explicit suggestions even in front of the twins.

Danny truly didn’t know what to do, his heart begging him to make some kind of move on Sam, but his mind telling him there was only one way this would end. The summer days would run out, Danny would go back to New York for school, and Sam wouldn’t follow. He would stay in Frankenmuth, alone, without Danny or his brothers. Danny only prayed that this time, he would answer his calls. Now that he finally had Sam back, he wasn’t ready to let go. He couldn’t bear to lose him again, not like last time.

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July 31st, 1:24 AM

Blinking sleep from his eyes, Danny fumbles for his phone in the darkness, the screen blinding him temporarily as he tries to figure out who decided to call him at one in the morning. Unsurprisingly, he sees Jake’s contact photo light up his screen again, having missed multiple calls from him. Guess I figured out what woke me up. What the fuck does he want and why can’t this wait a few more hours.

“Hello?” His voice is gravelly from sleep, still only half awake as his mind moves in slow motion.

“Danny! What are you doing tomorrow, well, today?” Jake’s words are fast and eager, filled with excitement despite how late it was.

“Uh? Nothing planned? Why?”

“Mom and Dad are going to a concert tomorrow night, tonight, whatever it is, without us; Chicago and Rick Springfield. The venue isn’t too far from us but they’re going up early and spending the next day there with some friends or something, so Sam, Josh, and I are taking over the living room for a movie marathon. Be over here by no later than two.”

Danny rubs his forehead, nearing annoyance at the reasoning for Jake waking him up as he tries to keep in mind that he probably hadn’t meant to disturb him. “Alright, yeah fine, whatever. I appreciate the invite but why couldn’t this have waited? I was asleep.”

“This early?” The genuine confusion in his voice helps him keep this in mind, not wanting to accidentally snap at him.

“Jake. It is almost 1:30 in the morning. I don’t know if you knew this but, normal people are usually asleep at this hour.”

“Oh… I’m sorry. I got excited.”

“You’re fine. What are we watching anyways?”

“Pirates of the Caribbean.” Danny can hear the smile in his voice even through the phone.

“How hard did you have to fight them for that?”

“So hard. We drew lots in the end and I won so they couldn’t say no.” Jake pauses momentarily, allowing a beat of silence to pass between them, speaking again as Danny begins to nod off. “Anyways, I’ll let you go back to sleep now. Bring snacks. Or weed.”

“Will do, bye.” Jake hangs up before Danny can, his phone screen going black allowing the room to be filled with darkness once more.

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2:10 PM

“Shut the fuck up, I know I’m late.” Danny says the second he opens the unlocked front door to the Kiszka house, knowing the other three men were just waiting to give him shit about being late. His body goes into autopilot as he enters the familiar living room and sits down on “his” seat on one of the couches, right next to Sam.

“I said no later than two, Wagner. You got a reason for being ten minutes late?” Jake cocks his eyebrow, his tone serious despite everyone knowing his question was a lighthearted joke.

“Yeah, Jake was about ready to start without you.” Josh chimes in from his place on a chair way too large for him, folded against the material in a way that would surely be uncomfortable for anyone else.

“Yes, I do actually.” Danny begins rummaging through his bag, pulling each item out and tossing it at each man as he spoke. “I had to get snacks. Peach ring gummies for Josh, pretzel sticks for Jake, white cheddar popcorn for me, and last but not least, baby carrots for Sam.” Sam’s eyes go wide as he hands him the bag of carrots as Jake and Josh snort, having forgotten that was their younger brother’s favorite snack food.

“Danny, I could kiss you.” Sam’s expression is dead serious as he says the words, sending a violent blush to Danny’s cheeks that he hides by turning his attention back to his bag, praying that he could blame his complexion on something else if asked. “Thank you.”

“Yeah uh, no problem. Anyways,” Danny clears his throat, hoping to change the subject without it being obvious to the others. “I also brought weed like Jake asked.” He holds up a small stash jar, continuing to explain as he settles into the couch now that everything he had brought had been unpacked. “I think I have like a quarter of an ounce left in here, brought my pipe too but I assume you all have your own, and joints too.”

“Danny, I could kiss you.” Jake repeats the words, and coming from him it only brings a grin to Danny’s face as he shakes his head.

“I’m good, but thanks. Let’s get this show on the road, why don’t we? How long is this going to take us by the way?”

“12 hours and 18 minutes. Not counting snack or bathroom breaks.” Silence falls between them at Jake’s words, each man getting more comfortable in their seats as they prepare for the next few hours.

“Lovely. What are we waiting for then?”

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9:52 PM

“Ok I can’t take it, I need a fucking break.” Josh stands abruptly as the credits of At World’s End begin to play, Jake already starting to queue up On Stranger Tides as he ignores Josh’s exit.

Sam stands as well, stretching his limbs as far as he can as he yawns. “Me too, I think it’s zaza time.”

“Please never call it that again.” Danny responds flatly as he too joins them on his feet, rummaging through his bag for his weed and pipe before beginning to follow Sam from the room until he stops himself, turning back to Jake still hunched over his DVD case searching through the discs. “You joining?”

He glances up with a smile, blindly flipping through the pages. “Yeah, be out in a sec.”

“Cool cool.” Danny leaves the room without another word, already knowing where Sam and Josh had escaped to. He sits down next to Sam on the small step of their back porch, both men watching Josh stretch in what Sam thought was the weirdest ways.

“What the fuck is he doing?”

“Yoga. He does it all the time at the most random times in our apartment.” Sam laughs at his comment, the mental image of Josh stopping mid-sentence to go into downward dog popping into his head. “I swear, he’ll get up mid-show for a snack and then I look over and he’s on the floor.”

“That doesn’t surprise me.” Sam pulls a lighter from his pocket as his fingers find a joint, bringing it to his lips and lighting it. He takes a large hit, letting it out with a long exhale as his eyes close. “God, I needed this. I would have lit it up an hour ago, but Jake and Josh said no smoking in the living room and I didn’t want to get up.” Danny watches his fingers brush against his lips as he takes another hit for longer than he would care to admit, hoping the darkness of the night would conceal his blush as Sam turns to look at him, holding the joint out between his pointer finger and thumb. “Want some?”

Danny moves his stash jar and pipe to the concrete beside him, glad to ignore it at the offer. “Yeah, thanks.” Just as his fingers are about to brush the tip, Sam pulls his hand back slightly, a mischievous smile playing across his lips.

“Greedy, greedy. Let me hold it for you.” Why the fuck does he want to hold it? Is he afraid I won’t give it back? I thought we had the “sharing is caring” rule with weed, I’d be more than willing to let him have some of mine in return. Despite the thoughts running through his mind, Danny leans towards the joint in his outstretched hand, making direct eye contact with Sam as he takes a long hit.

Sam maintains eye contact as his lips brush his fingertips, staring back unblinking in slight amusement. Danny coughs slightly as he exhales, grateful as Sam hands him a bottle of water silently, taking a large drink of it before attempting to speak again. “Thanks.”

“No problem.”

Before either can say another word, Josh joins them, plopping down on the concrete with a huff. “I feel so much better now.”

“Maybe if you didn’t fold yourself into that chair like a pretzel, your body wouldn’t be so angry at you.” Sam laughs before taking another hit.

Josh rolls his eyes before making grabby hands at Sam. “Shut the fuck up and pass it. Can’t believe you started without me.”

“Stop being such a hypocrite, Josh.” Jake cuts into the conversation as he shuts the back door behind him, pulling a chair over to sit next to Josh as he takes the joint from him before he can even raise it to his lips. “Whenever we smoke, I’m lucky to get a hit or two before you finish it."

“Balderdash! This is a defamation of my character, and I won’t stand for it! ...now give it back please.”

“No.” Jake casts a smile down to him before handing it to Danny, gratefully accepting it as Sam’s thigh presses into his, his heartbeat speeding as he tries not to cough from the hit. I’m gonna need so much more weed to get through this night. As Danny watches it burn lower and lower with each pass, he pulls his pipe back out, packing the bowl as the other men share the ends of the dying joint until it goes out. When he finishes, he takes a long hit, beginning to feel the effects of the first few hits he took.

When he sees the flower still lit, he holds the pipe out to Sam and keeps the bowl in his hand as the other man reaches for it, repeating Sam’s motions from earlier as he pulls it back towards himself with a smile. “Greedy, greedy.”

“Shut the fuck up.” Even as Sam rolls his eyes, Danny can see the smile creep onto his face as he brings his lips to the mouthpiece, once again maintaining eye contact as he inhales. After a few seconds, Danny removes his thumb from the carburetor, waiting a few more seconds to allow Sam to finish before pulling the glass piece away from him.

Suddenly remembering they weren’t alone, Danny turns his attention to the twins, holding the pipe and a lighter out to them. “Want some?”

Josh reaches for it before Jake can, snatching it from his hands with a grin before making quick work of lighting it. After they pass Danny’s pipe around a few times in silence, all four men feeling the weight of the weed in their heads and bodies, Jake finally speaks again. “Alright, these last two movies won’t watch themselves. We should resume before we’re all too high and tired to finish.”

“Agreed, let’s get this over with.” Josh stands as Jake replaces his chair, both moving around Sam and Danny still sitting as they make their way inside.

Despite the effects of the weed, Danny’s nerves skyrocket as Sam leans his head on his shoulder, saying nothing as Danny feels him relax against him. He lets Sam stay this way for a few moments, wanting to stay there forever with him but knowing how it would look to the twins if they didn’t join them soon. “We should uh, go inside. Sooner we start these, sooner we can sleep.”

“Ugh, fine.” Sam gets to his feet reluctantly, offering a hand down to Danny as he grabs his stash jar, lighter, and pipe in one hand. “Let’s go, Danny boy.”

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taglist: @gretnavannfleet @aioba1503-sdm @jake-whatthefisgoingon-kiszka @milojames16 @sanguinebats @theres-a-tvjoe @jakekiszkapunchmeintheface @currentlyfangirling10

#greta van fleet #greta van fleet fan fiction #gvf fic #daniel gvf #sam gvf #sanny gvf #greta van angst #greta van fluff #sam kiszka x danny wagner #sam kiszka #danny wagner

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bangtaninborderland · 1 year ago

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JHS- Twisted Feelings (12)

Summary: After working at an award show for 2 years everything had become normal, idols were no longer exciting to see, performances became dull and every day blended together, that was until an unexpected man asked for your help.

Warnings: mentions of violence, stalking.

Genre: idol au, strangers to lovers, angst, fluff, smut, ft ot7.

A/N: surprise!!! I have another chapter coming Tuesday too! also…anyone have any guesses for who is stalking YN? This chapter is a little longer than usual to make up for the wait (around 5k)

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True to his work Hoseok texted you once he got to work and then once again when he got home from work. You had been ushered out of the hospital once visiting hours were over.

Your dad spent had spent the past 5 days in hospital, growing stronger day by day but still needing assistance. The company had given you a week off, you still had a day of that time and thankfully the doctor had given you the green light to take your dad home.

Hoseok had texted every day, sending you comforting messages, asking if you needed help and he hadn’t been the only one, Jungkook and to your surprise Yoongi had also contacted, sending you messages of strength.

You were grateful for their support but you were even more grateful that you had the chance to take your dad home, cook him his favourite meal and make sure your mother got at least one full night of sleep before going home.

You’d only popped in briefly over the week to grab clothes, ignoring everything else. Everything else could wait, your dad couldn’t.

Your dad had insisted he didn’t need help to walk, that he was fine and you were being extra, your mother had insisted she could cook, that she wasn’t tired, that she should be taking care of you.

“You’re both as bad as each other, I’m going back to work in two days. Let me take care of you here please so I can have peace of mind when I go home that everything is okay.” You pleased, already knowing that you’d make them food, clean the house and help settle your father regardless of what they said.

Your mother rolled her eyes, huffing as she crossed one leg over the other, hand in your fathers thigh as they as on the couch. “Fine, you are stubborn just like your-“

“Eomma, just like your eomma.” Your dad interjected the conversation, you couldn’t help but laugh at the playfulness of it all.

Everything was fine. Your father wasn’t dying, your mother was okay.

You cooked them dinner, and then some extra so neither of them would have to worry about cooking tomorrow. You’d finished all the laundry and cleaned the house, it didn’t really need cleaning but still. The hours flew by and the time for you to go home was growing closer, and you were growing worried. Logically you couldn’t stay any longer, you had been asked to go into work to translate a phone interview between the members and some radio station.

“We will be fine.” You loved the way your mothers touch felt comforting, her hand upon your shoulder bringing you back to the present. Your father had insisted on ordering you a taxi home, the journey wasn’t long but it was way past 9pm and he wasn’t happy with the idea of you walking around this late.

“Your taxi will be here in a few minutes, you’ve got to return to work that company will fall apart without you.” Your dad laughed.

You shook your head. “Apps that’s not true at all! I worry about you two.”

“If we need your help I will call.” Your mother was firm and arguing back would do no good. “Didn’t you say NaRae was going to stop by tomorrow? I’m sure she can help out if we need it, which we don’t.” She held up a finger as you went to open your mouth, your arguments dying on your tongue. “Go home, go back to work.”

“You can’t wait to get rid of me.” You tried, you knew it wasn’t the case but still.

Your mother pulled you in for a hug, her floral perfume was a scent that had always provided you comfort. “You’re welcome home any time, just not when you have work.”

“Your taxi is here.” Your father declared, opening the door with a hobble. “Let us know you’re home safe?”

“Of course, take your medicine please I labelled them and wrote a chart, the food is in the refrigerator just heat it up, the rice will need a little more water. the laundry is folded into piles, if you leave it to the side NaRae can put it away tomorrow when she comes over.” You read off the mental checklist you had formed, all whilst your mother pushed you further and further out the door until you were climbing inside the Taxi.

“Thank you for staying home the past week blossom.” You lent into your mothers had as she stroked your cheek, the childhood nickname causing you to smile. “Now go and relax okay? Eomma loves you.”

“I love you too eomma.” You gave her hand a squeeze before dropping it and closing the door.

The taxi drive was short, but the stillness in the world was rather beautiful. Inside the car you were stationary, you couldn’t do anything yet life around you was full, people were going in and out of restaurants, businesses were closing for the day, people walking around going to who knows where. You were often more interested in the journey rather than the destination but today you couldn’t feel any more relieved as the car pulled up outside of your apartment building.

You handed over the exact change and thanked the driver before climbing the stairs to your apartment. The smell of your air freshener hit you in the face as you opened the front door, thankfully it wasn’t messy, just a few clothes and papers here and there.

You sent your parents a text before checking the rest of your notifications. Frowning when you noticed an unread message from Hoseok only to smile at the contents.

He truly had done more than enough, in fact every day for the past week food had been delivered to the hospital, ordered by a man called J.

You smiled at the messages before decided to shower, it wouldn’t do you well to turn up to work looking like a mess. You didn’t drag it out, shaving could wait, you did the basics, body wash, shampoo, exfoliator, face mask and then teeth before climbing into bed half asleep.

You only just remembered to set an alarm before knocking out.

The morning came way too fast. The kitchen floor was cold as you padded across it, pouring cereal into a bowl. You couldn’t really muster much of an appetite, your mind debating wether or not to call in sick and go back to your parents. You knew you couldn’t, knew they would argue if you went home but still, you couldn’t help but worry. Even as you got dressed, put on your shoes, double checked your bag and got inside the taxi you was formulating excuses to skip the day.

Considering how early it was the building was busy, a few different groups passing you in the halls, some you recognised, others not so much. A part of you was nervous, you’d never translated an interview before and thanks to the whole fiasco at the award show you couldn’t afford to make a mistake still as you see Hoseok standing outside of your given office you managed to smile a little, feeling some of your worries no longer as bothersome.

“Good morning.” He smiled, holding out a coffee which you took gratefully.

You opened the door for him, letting him walk in first. “Thank you for the coffee, are you ready for the day?”

“As ready as I can be, I’m not as good at interviews as Namjoon but I’m used to them.” He took a sip of his coffee before placing it on the table. “How are you? Are your parents okay?”

You nodded, placing your bag and cup down. “I’m okay, a little nervous for the interview I don’t want to mess up and convey something in the wrong way.”

“I doubt you would.” He shook his head, silencing the thought immediately. “If you really aren’t up to it I’m sure there’s someone else who can do it, no one would judge you after the past week.”

You gave him a smile, despite all the fame he was still so kind, so humble. “It’s okay, really. If I change my mind I promise I’ll let you know. How is the album coming along?”

“Unless you count being stuck on the same song for the past two weeks as ‘coming along’ then it’s not. No where near.” He frowned, you noticed the dark bags under his eyes covered by some concealer but still prominent enough to be known.

“I don’t know much about making music but whatever it is I have the upmost confidence you can figure it out. Isn’t there anyone you can turn to for help?” You asked, surely there was other producers there to step in when something wasn’t going right.

“I guess there is.” He sighed, sitting down on the small couch. “It’s a solo song, the outro.”

“Oh wow, you’re doing a solo song as the outro?” You leant against the table, not in a rush as the interview wasn’t for a few hours yet. “How do you feel about that?”

“I’m happy to be doing it, over the years the outro has changed members and we’ve had solo songs on every album since wings so I’m not as caught up on that.” He attempts a laugh but it’s empty. “it’s supposed to be the last one before we take a break and I don’t want the final song to be something that people don’t enjoy. The last song of an album is like the closing note, imagine reading a book with no final page, it would ruin it.” He explains, taking another drink of his coffee.

“You could look at it as the closing note or you could look at it as the song the leads to the future, if you look at it like an ending it will feel like an ending, if you look at it as though it’s a song setting the stage for the next album, regardless of when that may be it could give you a new outlook. If I’m ever stuck on an ending I think about what I want to do next, if I want to make a second book then I won’t have a definitive ending so it’s easier for me to continue the next time I’m ready to write. Maybe try look at it as a message for the future than one for the present.” You wasn’t really sure what to suggest but you did your best, not wanting to give futile and pointless advice. You made a mental note to spend some one on one time with YouTube and gather as much information about making music as you could, he was always a big help to you and for some reason you wanted to help him just as much.

He gave you a smile, this time not empty or lacking but truly bright. “Maybe you’re right, just because it’s the last song in the album it doesn’t mean it has to feel like one. I feel like inspiration is striking so I’m going to go to my studio and I’ll see you later, you just gave me an idea.” He rushed up, as though whatever he had thought would be forgotten if he didn’t put it to paper.

Maybe you weren’t entirely useless at giving advice. You laughed to yourself at the way he bounded out of the room.

Within no time you found yourself surrounded by papers, the lessons for the next week slowly coming together, your own inspiration seemingly hitting in abundance. Normally on a Friday you felt worn out, the weekend a welcome retreat but things were different here, the workload wasn’t as taxing, you were no longer underpaid and overworked so despite it being Friday and the fact you were working on your only day off you were In high spirits.

Until your phone began to ring and you picked it up only to hear a worried Na-Rae.

“YN?” She called, you knew her well enough to recognise when something was wrong.

“Is everything okay? Is it appa?” Your mind instantly went to your parents and you were ready to rush out if need be.

She was breathing heavy and it made you sweat. “No, no he’s okay, they are fine. A letter came for you… i think it’s his handwriting.” Her voice was hushed and for a moment your brain blanked.

“His who?” You frowned, confused.

“YN…Jung-Woo.” She whispered.

You felt your heart drop to your stomach. “To my parents house? It couldn’t be he never knew their address. What does the letter say?”

“I didn’t open it.” She paused. “Should I?”

“Yes?” You responded although it sounded more question than answer, you weren’t entirely sure you wanted to know the contents of the letter.

“Okay wait.” The distinct sound of paper tearing had you on edge before she spoke against “oh my god.”

“What?” You explained, your heart racing. “What is it?”

“It’s pictures of you, just around the Hybe building, next to the members, inside your apartment, they look like they were taken from outside.” She explains them. “I’ll send you a picture.”

“No wait.” You paused, now wasn’t the right time for this, you had an interview to work through and you definitely couldn’t do that if you see the pictures. “Come over tonight, bring them with you. Do not let my parents see. I have an interview I have to go.”

“Okay, good luck. Don’t let this bother you, go do whatever it is you do.” She laughed, you could tell she was trying to distract you, to lighten the mood but you welcomed it, grateful to have a friend who was as selfless as her. “I’ll be round tonight, text me when you’re on your way home and I’ll come over.”

“Okay. Love you.” You managed to smile as she said goodbye and the line went dead.

You felt as though there was an elephant upon your chest, even as you grabbed your ID card and clipped it to your pants, even as you opened the office door and took a step outside, even as you walked the long corridor and unfortunately even as Hoseok rushed to join you, voice sounding rather dry.

“You okay?” He asked. You wasn’t but you nodded and pulled out a sealed bottle of water from your bag, handing it to him. “You’re an Angel in disguise.” He laughed as he opened the bottle, practically draining it.

It didn’t do much to help his voice but you felt good about doing something to help. “It won’t be a long interview, maybe an hour.” He explained, holding open the door to the recording room, there was musical equipment pushed to the side, three phones on one round table, one for you and one for Hoseok another for whatever other member was joining. A notepad had already been put on the table, you guessed it was for note taking but with how cloudy your mind felt and how hard it was to breath you weren’t sure you could even speak the whole hour, let alone take notes too.

“Are you sure you’re okay? You look pale.” The rapper asked again, even as you both took your seats.

You out on your best smile. “I’m okay. Just nervous.”

Hoseok, thankfully, doesn’t press anymore. Instead he brings up his phones notes, typing away. You’re only waiting five minutes before Jimin strolls in, forehead sweaty, you guessed he had been doing some form of practice, or working out.

He gave you a smile before leaning over Hoseok shoulder to see what the rapper was doing on his phone. Whatever it was caused Jimin to laugh and Hoseok to slap his thigh.

“Ah Hyung, you’re funny.” Jimin giggled, taking his seat. “Hello YN.”

“Hello, Jimin. How are you?” You shifted to face him, not wanting to be rude.

“Tired and sweaty.” He laughed brining a hand to wipe his forehead. “How’s your parents?”

“You know?” You asked, shocked. “How?”

“Hoseokie Hyung told us when he went to the hospital. He kinda left in a rush so we knew something was up.” Jimin looked at you before turning to Hoseok, his mouth forming an ‘o’ “was I not supposed to say anything?”

You felt yourself genuinely smile at that, the weight on your chest becoming a little more bearable. “No it’s okay, they are doing much better.”

“Sometimes our Jimin here says a lot of things.” Hoseok laughs, it’s fake but that’s what makes it funny. “So just ignore Jimin.”

You press your lips into a fine line as though you were considering it before shaking your head. “I can’t unfortunately I have to translate for the both of you.”

“See that’s because YN is a 94 liner too.” Jimin teased Hoseok.

“I- Hoseok began but was cut off as the door to the room opened, Sejin stepping inside.

“Sorry for keeping you all waiting I had some things to do. Hello YN-Ssi.” Sejin greeted you and you quickly stood to how to him before taking your seat again. “It’s a simple interview to bring attention to the upcoming album, it will mostly be about your musical journey and process, please try to refrain from giving any spoilers although I should probably be saying that to-

“Namjoon.” All three men said in unison.

“-Yes, glad you know. Okay I’m going to dial in and then it’s down to you three, I’ll be hearing it all in case they ask something we haven’t allowed.” You we’re grateful to have another layer of support there, if something went amiss at least you couldn’t be held solely responsible.

Once the call to the interviewer was connected everything moved fast, questions were asked and answered and by the end of it you were sure that you’d spoken more English in the past hour then you had In the past year, you were taken back by how thoughtful and personal Jimin and Hoseoks answers had been, with Sejin having minimal input only shaking his head a few times when Hoseok had nearly spoken about being in the outro.

You relayed everything as well as you could, despite some terms being unfamiliar you were pretty proud of yourself, half way through the weight on your chest eased a little and you were awfully grateful for the distraction the interview provided you with, mentally translating an entire conversation didn’t give you much time to think about your own issues.

“You were great!” Jimin praised, pushing his chair away from the table. “Me and Taehyung are going to eat would you want to come?”

“Oh.” You looked between him and Hoseok, already having made plans with the rapper. “I think me and Hoseok-ssi were going to get lunch.”

“We could go as a group, Hyung?” Jimin asked Hoseok who in turn looked at you, as though trying to sense what you really wanted before nodding. “Okay, I’ll text Taehyungie to meet us at the cafeteria.”

“Where is he?” Hoseok asked, holding open the door for you and Jimin. “I thought he was with Namjoon doing the bridge?”

“No.” Jimin shook his head, walking alongside Hoseok, you were just a few steps behind. “We recorded that, Jungkook is recording now. He was in the empty studio I think he did a live.”

“I was supposed to do a live yesterday but I didn’t have time.” Hoseok frowned and Jimin sighed, both of them clearly upset about something.

You’d spaced out after that, somehow following their footsteps as you thought to yourself. All of the letters, the threats had started when you agreed to take the position at hybe but that information had been confidential, the only people who knew were the ones who had a part in you getting the job. It wasn’t impossible that an old colleague overheard the hushed conversations you’d had with Narae at your desk or even your old boss but to go as far as to threaten you? To find out your parents address? It had to be something more personal, someone more personal. Especially if they knew about Jung-Woo although how much of the story they knew was a mystery they still knew and that was a worry in itself especially if they told the pol-

“YN?” A hand waved in front of your face and you jumped back, Hoseok frowned a little before pulling his lips into a smile. “You disappeared on us.”

You were taken aback as you see Taehyung beside Jimin, you truly had disappeared. “Sorry.” You apologised sheepishly. “I was just thinking about some paperwork I was doing earlier.”

“It’s okay.” Taehyung smiled, you’d been around him a handful of times, seen his pictures and videos everywhere but something about seeing his smile in real life, directed at you was entirely different. It was kind, even his eyes reflected that same energy of warmth and care. “Are you sure you have time for lunch?”

You nodded. “Of course, I'm fine I promise.” You laughed. “So…lunch?”

“Yes lunch.” Hoseok claps and you shuffle to look at him. “We can eat at the cafeteria or we can slip out and go to a restaurant around the corner. It’s private we eat there a lot, no one will bother us. It’s your choice.” He asks you both Taehyung and Jimin nodding along.

“Im happy with either.” You felt more comfortable letting them choose. “Where is the food best?”

“Definitely the restaurant. I can drive?” Hoseok offers.

With no objections you begin walking to the employee only car park. Taehyung and Jimin walking behind you and Hoseok, both of them arguing over a song they had been working on together.

Hoseok found the car at ease, guiding all three of you through the flourishing car park. You felt embarrassed as he unlocked the car and the opened the door for you. Jimin and taehyung talking animatedly as they climbed into the back. The low thrum of the car was soothing, Hoseok had opened the tinted windows slightly.

“So YN tell us about yourself?” Taehyung perked up from the back. Leaning forward to see you. “Everyone knows us.” He huffs frowning.

“There’s nothing really to know. I don’t have any siblings, I studied, went to university, did the exchange programme, came here, got a Job with my friend at the broadcasting place for the award shows and then ended up here.” You summarised your life in a few short sentences which albeit didn’t make you feel good about yourself, your life not being one full of great adventures and in comparison to the lives of global superstars was pretty much nothing.

The car was silent for a second as it comes to a stop at a red light before Jimin asks. “I heard that you like to write.”

“Oh, yeah I do.” You smiled, as though you could forget. “I think I want to write a book, publish it, I’m not too sure how I’ll do it but I have a few ideas.”

“What genres do you like?” Hobi asked this time, looking at you quickly before refocusing on the road.

“I like all kinds of things, my favourite stories are always the ones that get worse before they get better.” You explain. “Misunderstandings, angst, heartbreak before undeniable, overwhelming happiness is the best.”

“I’ve read a few stories like that. I enjoyed them.” Jimin shrugged. “I don’t read much.”

“Same.” Tae nods in agreement. Yoongi Hyung and Namjoonie Hyung do though.”

“What about you?” You turned to Hobi.

“Ahh.” He sighed. “My dad was a literature teacher, he always tells me to read, even now. I don’t do it much but whenever I do read it’s usually something philosophical or something that I feel will help me grow. Living, Loving and Learning was one of my favourites.” You perk up at that, recognising the book.

“The one by Dr Leo?” You ask, eyes wide with a smile as he nods. “That book was great, I felt brand new after reading it.”

“I liked the way it encouraged acceptance, I recommended it to everyone else but I don’t know if they read it.” Hoseok looks back through the mirror but Taehyung and Jimin just side eye each other. “Yeah, they definitely didn’t read it.”

You all laugh at that, the conversation continuing as you pull up the the restaurant. You watched as they all pulled out face masks and hats, putting them on in some form of synchronicity. “Ready?” Taehyung asks you. “Oh do you want a face mask?”

You nod, not wanting to be the odd one out. “Thank you.”

“Let’s go, we have practice in two hours and I’m hungry.” Jimin complains, getting out of the car first. Taehyung followed after, leaving just you and Hoseok.

You were waiting for him to get out but instead he took his seatbelt off and shifted around to look at you. “I should have said this before we left but if you don’t want to go in there you don’t have to, I can just do a take away. No one will bother us but there’s always a chance of someone seeing us on the way in.”

You tilt your head in confusion. “Wouldn’t that be more of an issue for you than me?”

“Not really, we go out with staff all the time. Still be aware of anyone who may take pictures, it wouldn’t be the first time we have encountered a sasaeng at a restaurant.” He shrugs his shoulders, clearly used to the events.

“I guess today is as good as any to learn how to deal with those situations. Let’s go and eat?” He laughs and nods, reaching for his door as you do yours.

The air wasn’t necessarily cold but it wasn’t warm either, you loved weather like this. The restaurant wasn’t small but it wasn’t fancy, there were a few tables where businessmen sat, some at the back empty, another table looked to be trainees of some sort but no one bothered you and Hoseok as you walked around the tables towards the enclosed place at the back, Jimin and Taehyung already waiting around the table. “Finally!”

“We didn’t even take that long.” Hoseok laughs at Taehyung. “Did you order?”

“Yeah, I got the usual but I asked them to come back so YN could order too.” Jimin looks at you. “I wasn’t sure what you liked.”

“Oh!” You felt yourself getting flustered which was definitely a new level of embarrassment as all three men looked at you. “I’m fine with whatever.”

“We ordered seafood.” Taehyung squints at you. “Do you like seafood?”

“Okay…maybe not like BUT I’m used to eating it with my friend so it’s okay.” NaRae had often pushed you into seafood restaurants, you didn’t like the food much but over the years you’d grown a tolerance to it. “Seriously, it's fine.”

“He’s lying, we didn’t order seafood, he just wanted to see if you would be honest. We ordered the meat set with Mandu, Japchae and then a side order of bungeoppang for after.” Jimin rattles off their entire order list, your eyes growing wide at the copious amount of foods before finally registering what he had said at the beginning.

“Wait, why would I lie about what food I liked?” You asked, you couldn’t understand why someone would do that.

“Well.. before.. there’s been times we have had friends or people we thought as friends that would lie about everything they liked to make themselves seem compatible with us?” Hoseok responds, shaking his head.

“A girl once lied to me about liking seafood.” Taehyung adds. “She was allergic.”

“She was what?.” Your head whipped around at him. “Did she eat it?”

“Yep. She called me the next day from the hospital because she had a severe reaction.”

“Was that the one who said she sold her car to buy you a watch?” Jimin asks, clearly aware of the situation.

Watching them talk about it all so normally was what shocked you the most, the lengths someone would go to just to be close to another being because of a desire to have them. It left you silently asking just how many times they had gone though these things for them to be so nonchalant about it.

The food came in shortly after, the conversation coming to a stop as you all filled your stomach. You offered to pay, pulling out your card as fast as you could. Jimin and Hoseok argued because they had invited you, believing it was right for them to pay. However, it was Taehyung who bested you all, slipping the waiter his card for the bill as Hoseok, Jimin and you debated who would pay.

Tomorrow you’d buy them all coffee.

Hoseok had offered to drop you home once you had told them all that you weren’t required to be in work until tomorrow but you refused, explaining you were going to see a friend. You’d agreed with NaRae to stop by her apartment, to get the pictures and to figure out if she knew anything else, anything that could help you make sense of the issue.

After saying a short goodbye to the members with a promise of texting Hoseok later you were already on your way to NaRaes, thankfully the traffic wasn’t bad and the bus journey was only a short 15 minutes.

You didn’t need to knock, she had long since given you a key so as usual you let yourself in. Her small puppy, Mino, jumping up at you as soon as you entered the doorway. You quickly pet him, before taking off your shoes as walking through the slim hallway that connected to the rest of the house.

“Where are you?” You shouted, loud enough for it to be heard through the apartment.

“Here.” She called out, somewhere in the bedroom.

“Was you sle- oh my god what happened?!” Your jaw drops at the site of the cut on her face and scrapes on her hands.

“The pictures, someone came for the pictures, oh my way home they grabbed me and snatched them. I tried to fight to keep them but I couldn’t.” She sat up from the bed, pushing herself into your arms.

“It’s okay, it’s okay.” You stroked the back of her head. Guilt pooling in your stomach, whatever this was, whoever it was, it was your fault.

And you were going to make sure they paid.

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akronus-writes · 3 months ago

Text

Walking on a path of shattered glass chapter 4, nightmares from beyond the veil.

2 days later, I stand in front of the large mirror the motel I had rented on the outskirts of town, shifting the hooded black trench coat I had bought until it properly hid both my ears, and tail. with the current coma case I really couldn't afford someone calling me a demon.

"there, that should work," I commented, pulling the hood over my head as I picked up my phone and checked the time.

"11:30 am, I organized to speak to the investigator in about an hour,"

I put my phone back down as I fell onto the bed, content to wait out the next hour by going over my plan for the day, and began to speak aloud.

"at 12:30 I'll speak with the investigator and see if I can get any case record, reports, or possible evidence. After that I'll visit the victims houses and search for anything arcane, making sure not to get caught. And then I'll finish the day with some more reading into whatever the hell this could be. And hopefully not enter a coma when I go to sleep tonight,"

I used my finger to draw meaningless shapes in the air, sketching some strange pattern into the ceiling as I contemplated how much work I would need to put in today.

An hour later I slipped out of my door, locking it behind me as I walked out into the light of the sun, hood up to conceal my ears despite the searing heat of the outside world.

Quickly making my way into town, I find myself blending in surprisingly well with the locals, my strange outfit passing by the gaze of the grieving. The town itself is exotic to me, a quaint town you'd expect to find in a farming simulator, not a cosmic horror story.

Eventually I find myself outside my destination, a small bakery and coffee shop called the caffeinated croissant. I looked through a window with an emblem of a croissant being dipped in coffee, surveying the nearly empty shop for the detective.

I noticed him sitting in the corner booth, wearing a navy blue puffer jacket over a white dress shirt and black jeans, drinking a coffee as he checked his watch.

Before anyone could notice me spying, I quickly entered the shop, pushing the door open, causing a customary chime sound as I wordlessly strode in and sat down opposite the detective.

"I take it you're Akronus?" the detective asked in a strangely plain voice, not taking the time to look up from his drink.

"and you're the detective who offered me information," I answered, scanning him for any form of wire or weapon.

"correct, I can't tell you much, but I can tell you some bits most folks wouldn't know," He replied, taking a sip of his coffee.

"and in return I'll tell you what I know about it," I added, hoping to end the conversation quickly.

"yep, I guess you'll want me to start, so I'll tell you what I know," He took another sip of his coffee before continuing "roughly three weeks back a local man entered a coma at exactly midnight, next night it happened again, and then the next, and then the next, and there was no known cause either," He looked at me with a tired grin, "you know what that does to this kind of town? anyone who didn't end up comatose ran off a week ago, this towns got about a month let in it before it falls apart, so getting your help is one hell of a hail Mary," He finished his story with another drink of coffee, and I began mine.

"the reason this is happening isn't drugs, or a medical phenomena, it's the work of an eldritch being," I noticed the look I am so used to begin to spread across his face, and continued speaking "not Cthulhu, things that don't make sense. A monster that makes you forget your own face, insects under the skin of your furniture, that's what I'm talking about," I looked at his face, smirking under my mask at the mixture of shock and horror on his face, and slid him a slip of paper.

"this has my number on it, I'll call you tomorrow," I informed him, before briskly walking out of the shop, and disappearing back into the outside world.

An hour later I sat down under a tree in the only park in the town, right across the road from the house of the first victim. pulling up the article i had found on the event on my phone once more, I checked if it had mention any family members living at the address, and when it said he lives alone I made my move.

I quickly make my way out of the park, across the road, and around the house and into the backyard. It was already overgrown, the owner had clearly neglected it long before he entered a coma. Weaving my way past the forest of grass and weeds, I grabbed onto the bronze door knob of his backdoor, and quietly released a blast of arcane energy, not enough to hurt someone badly, just enough to break the lock.

In a subdued flash of purple light, the handle and lock fell apart in my hand, and with a light push the door swung open into a small kitchen illuminated by only the beams of sunlight that shone through dusty windows or the now opened door.

Slowly, I stepped into the house, taking care to not touch anything as I searched for the bedroom. Leaving the kitchen and entering the practically untouched living room, I ascended the stairs in the middle of the house, and opened the door at the end of the upstairs hallway.

upon opening the door, I walked into a cluttered mess of a room filled with more trash and garbage then I could even begin to believe. The room itself reminded me of humanities ability to create horror even in the absence of the arcane, every step I took inside of it threatened to topple some form of trash pile, and every sense I had wished to flay its respective sensory organ alive.

Eventually I managed to navigate my way to the foot of the bed, and activated my arcane sense to hopefully see the traces of energy left by the monster.

In an instant my vision was flooded with an ethereal purple energy radiating off of the room, blinding me as I visually searched the room for something that could denote the origins of the beast I faced.

And eventually I found it, an arcane symbol that I couldn't recognize engraved into the headboard of the bed in a much thicker layer of energy.

Quickly I memorized the sigil, left the room, descended the stairs, and left through the back door and made my way back to the motel room.

chapter 3. chapter 5.

@f4y3w00d5 @gobodegoblin @mango-the-neon-vigilante @monsterfucker-research-wizard @the-thing-of-worms @be-gentle-with-littluns-2

#Akronus #Akronus writes #writing #bad writing #horror writing

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my-own-walker · 2 years ago

Text

On The Other Line - Part 2

here is pt 2 for this post.

warnings: angst and sadness, a boisterous argument, delco in general, also maybe...happiness?

+++

All I've ever wanted to feel was like I was wanted. In fact, it was all I needed. To feel like someone needed me in their life.

After Colin and I went on those few dates, he didn't contact me at all. I made no effort either. I felt weird, like he wasn't really that into me, and I guessed I was right.

Days of radio silence went by, making me feel crazy. I replayed everything in my head and saw no reason why he'd ghost me, besides him being a nauseating asshole.

I wracked my brain alone in my apartment, pacing back and forth. It was late. Around 12:30 am. I couldn't sleep at all. I had work the next day and desperately needed sleep. Nothing was helping. It got to the point that no waking moment of mine was not plagued by thoughts of him, so I decided to do something about it.

I mustered the courage to call him. I was perched on the edge of my bed, phone to my ear, biting my thumb nail in anticipation. The line rang a few times before he picked up.

'Uh, Y/N?' he answered, sounding flustered.

'Zabel, can I talk to you?' I replied, trying to sound as unbothered as possible.

'Yeah, sorry, one sec. Let me just hang up with the person I have on the other line,' he said.

The other line? Why did he not hang up with them before picking up my call? I thought. Moments of silence went by, accompanied by rustling that I presumed was Colin trying to figure out how to hang up the other call, then a voice.

'Colin?' a female voice asked. I froze. My stomach dropped. 'Did you get off your call with your lil' girlfriend from the other day? Are you still trying to make me jealous?'

'Fu- Mare! Uh, just- one second, please!' Colin stammered.

Mare. The woman from the park the other day. He must have merged our calls instead of hanging up with her. Tears immediately sprang to my eyes. My chest balled up tightly into a knot. I didn't dare say a word. Instead, I removed the phone from my ear, stunned.

'Y/N? Y/N?' Colin called out from the phone in my lap. Numbly I pressed the red button in the middle of my phone's screen, hanging up on him. I let my phone slip out of my hands and clatter onto the floor. It buzzed almost immediately. A text from Colin.

One text soon became twelve, then twenty. He tried to call me again. I watched the activity unfold on my phone on the floor from the safety of my bed. Maybe if I don't move this isn't real. I thought. I let this guy fuck me, and it was all for revenge.

I was so embarrassed, so humiliated, and so hurt by it all. After a few minutes of feeling immense pain in my chest and letting tears sting my eyes, I finally caved and grabbed my phone.

'Y/N, please, I can explain.'

'I'm going to call you, can you pick up?'

'I'm so sorry. I really fucked up.'

The messages felt so insincere knowing the true intent behind his sudden interest in me. My insecurity got the best of me, though. I needed to see him one last time. I unlocked my phone and opened his messages. I needed to tell him what a bastard he was. I needed to make him see my pain.

'I'll be behind the library tomorrow at lunchtime if you'd like to talk.'

I sent it and threw my phone onto my dresser. I didn't check it for the rest of the night. It buzzed about 20 more times but I just laid on my back and stared at the wall until sleep's dark embrace captured me.

The hours at work, until we met, were agonizingly long. My mind was racing through all of the things I wanted to say. I was so hurt by him, I just wanted to lose it.

At around noon I walked out of the back door of the library. I squinted at the bright light of the sun, stepping out into reality. It was time to tell him how I felt.

He was already there. Early, as always. He wore this look on his face. Remorse, or something. It disgusted me.

'Y/N,' he breathed, putting his hands in his coat pockets.

It was bitterly cold outside. It was the kind of wind that stung your face when it blew. You could see our breath as we spoke.

'Fuck you, Colin,' I declared, rounding on him. 'What am I? A fucking pawn to you? This shit only fucking happens in movies, yet I'm living it. You astound me.' I threw my hands in the air in exasperation.

'Okay, I deserved that,' he muttered.

'What kind of low-life uses a person like this? You seriously make me sick. I can't believe I actually started falling for you,' I shouted.

His expression went from one of sadness to one of shock.

'You what?' he said, bewildered.

'Oh fucking stop with that,' I spat, 'I know you don't feel the same.'

'Please, Y/N, will you let me speak?' he pleaded. I raised my hands up, palms facing him, giving him the floor. 'I'll admit it. I went out with you to make Mare jealous. The night we met, at the bar, I had just been on a date with her. But Y/N, she really hurt me that night. It was a horrible time. She was so...horrible to me, I don't know. I wanted to hurt her.'

I scoffed. 'Oh great, so it's true, you fucking asshole.'

'No but- Y/N, here's the thing. When I met you, you lit up my life. For a brief moment, I could see a whole, beautiful future with you,' he professed. 'Yes, my intentions weren't pure, but I really, really like you. You are so amazing. Unique, funny, pretty. Your light is bright. You amaze me. And maybe I'm scared of that. Maybe I backed away, used the thing with Mare as a barrier between us so I wouldn't fall in love. But I sure as hell feel like I am, and I'm sorry, but I'm scared.'

My angry expression softened. I unclenched my fists and set my jaw, holding back tears.

'I'm so sorry. I am. I'm so not worthy of you,' he added.

A fat tear rolled down my cheek and I lurched toward him, wrapping him in a rib-cracking-strength hug.

He relaxed into my touch, sighing loudly. 'Y/N, you're so lovely.'

'Just shut up and kiss me, Zabel,' I breathed and planted my lips firmly on his.

And so he did. We embraced behind the library for what felt like hours. My head nestled firmly on his chest, reveling in the warmth it provided. He kissed me on the top of my head.

'I mean it, Y/N. I really think you're my forever. So let's give this a try. Please?'

I nodded, fully believing that he may be my forever, too.

+++

This ask was so fun to write! And guess what? Epilogue coming soon. Possibly even tonight...

#colin zabel #colin zabel x reader #evan peters x female reader #evan peters #mare of easttown #evan peters fic #evan peters x reader

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writer-darling · 1 year ago

Text

Are You Ever Dreaming of Me?

Chapter 7: Style | Read Chapter 6: It’s Nice to Have a Friend!

I NEVER USE Y/N OR ANYTHING LIKE IT THANK YOU SO MUCH :)

Rating: M - Mature (THE TIME HAS COME) (18+ MINORS DNI)

Pairing: Ezra (Prospect, 2018) x F!Reader

Warnings: IT’S ANOTHER LONG ONE I’M SORRY. Good old enemies-to-lovers trope. age gap (10 years). Nothing super descriptive for Reader but they are described as having hair. Tension, OF ALL KINDS, reaches an all-time high. Adult language. A LOT of feelings and things of that nature. Banter. Flirting. It’s E-to-L, you know where this is going. Feral Ezra (he starts at an 83.5% but ends up at about a 90.79% in this chapter). Religious practices, mentions (fictional). Mentions of food and alcohol. Arguing. Fingering. Lots of praise. If there are any that I missed, please inbox me to let me know and I will add them in :)

Word Count: 10.9k

Summary!: Three steps forward, two steps back, is still one step forward.

A/N: REWRITTEN AND REFORMATTED ON: 12/30/23; IF YOU READ ANY OF THE REWRITES READ THIS ONE

******

“And I should just tell you to leave, 'cause I

Know exactly where it leads, but I

Watch us go 'round and 'round each time…”

It was a great week...

Until it wasn't. You’ve spent almost the entirety of the past week and a half with Ezra. Playing cards, making more conversation, and sharing food and drinks whenever you can. The atmosphere between you two has lightened significantly, becoming overall cheerier. Even the crew’s seemed to notice.

On the last night of the work week, you and Ezra are chatting as usual, this time near the end of the night. A group of your crew is present, and the hours have been going by quickly in the best way. Ezra’s acting as his usual storyteller-self and you’re just as enticed as the rest of the crew. You know it's getting late, but the mood is so light, that you can’t bear to cut the evening short until now, knowing full well that tomorrow will be back to the typical grindstone. When you check your watch, it dawns on you that it’s very late. So, you wait until the story's over before you announce our departure.

"Well, I think it's time I get some sleep. We've got an early day tomorrow." You say, standing up from your seat and gathering your helmet and empty food tray from dinner.

Ezra looks up at you with a warm smile and gives a slight nod in agreement. The rest of the group bid you goodnight. Before you can turn to leave, Ezra calls out, stopping you in your tracks. "Wait," You turn on your heel.

"Yeah, what's up?" You ask him with a raise of your eyebrow. He pauses, looking around at everyone else for a moment before turning back to you.

"Do you mind if I walk you back to your quarters?" The group’s eyes go from you to Ezra, then back again as they await to hear your answer. You see the crew look from Ezra to you with interest, making you pause. It definitely wouldn't be a good idea to agree, considering how many rumors there have been about you two lately. But you can't deny that you enjoy Ezra's company.

"Sure, c'mon," You say before you turn again and begin to walk to your tent without checking if he's following or not.

Ezra is a bit surprised that you agreed, but he immediately gets out of his seat and begins to walk after you. As you head back to your chambers, there's a bit of silence between the two of you. Finally, he decides to speak up.

"So, uh, shall we talk about that little rumor the crew is spreadin’?" he asks.

"What rumor?" You ask with clearly mock obliviousness. Before you snort when he chuckles in response, but you shake your head gently. "I didn't peg you as being interested in idle gossip." You tease.

"I'd say that the 'idle gossip' has gone a bit beyond what I'd call 'idle' by now. It's been a weeks-long topic at this point, at least." Ezra pauses, and you notice him blush a bit. You roll your eyes playfully with a smile,

”Yeah, I guess it has...” but then you see he seems in a more somber mood so you backtrack from your playful tone. “Does it bother you at all?" You ask him, genuinely unsure if you want him to say ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ He pauses for a moment before responding.

"I'm not gonna lie, the attention can be a bit... uncomfortable," he admits. "But what really bothers me is that it makes you seem like nothin’ more than the 'exotic' object in this... mess. You deserve more than that." His tone is one of fierce conviction as his troubled brow furrows. "You're smart, funny, driven, and so much more. Yet the crew seems to ignore that and focus on what you are, rather than who you are. You deserve respect." Your heart warms as he expresses that and you smile, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder.

“You’re a good man, Ezra. And don’t worry about those jagoffs, ok? They’re just being… men.” You say with a soft chuckle. Ezra gives a slight grin, his face lighting up at your touch.

"You're too kind to me," he says, placing his own hand on top of yours, something that has become more and more frequent as of late. "I'm sure you know what I mean here... bein’ a woman in the workforce is hard. At least, I know my sister's told me a few horror stories." Ezra pauses, before letting his fingers gently interlace with yours. You smile and let him grab your hand.

“One of your sisters is a prospector too?” You ask him, surprised that he hasn’t mentioned it until now. “Which one?”

"Shira is," Ezra says with a nod, still holding onto your hand. He runs his thumb along your fingers lightly. "She's just as smart as any of those men on her crew... maybe even more so, considerin’ she has the drive to reach out and work with the minin’ corporations rather than out here on the Fringe." Ezra pauses, thinking for a moment. "She's quite the negotiator," he adds with a slight grin.

“Mm, just like her big brother, then?” His grin turns sheepish. You smile. Again, he seems so proud of his siblings. “What about your other sisters? The older ones. What do they do?” You ask.

Ezra's smile widens. "Well, Dalia’s a biologist," he says with a slight chuckle. "She studies the ecosystems of worlds that we visit. We all call her the 'space hippie'," Ezra says with a light shrug. "And Danni is a mechanic for the minin’ corporations that sponsor us prospectors," he adds, just as you two reach the entrance of your tent.

“Well, I’d love to hear more about your sisters. We can continue this talk at breakfast tomorrow?” You ask him with a hopeful smile. He nods, letting go of your hand and giving a slight chuckle.

"Bright ‘n early," he says, looking at you and smiling. His gaze lingers for a moment, studying your face, before giving a wink and a small nod. "I'll see you tomorrow," he says.

“Good night, Ezra. Sweet dreams.” You say reaching for his hand and giving it one more gentle squeeze before you enter your tent. He smiles as he watches you enter your tent. He stands there for a moment longer, just watching you with that same smile on his face. Finally, he puts a hand over his heart and whispers to himself,

"Sweet dreams to you too, my darlin’." Ezra turns and walks away, heading back to his own tent.

It was a great week...

Until it wasn’t. The next morning, you wake up with a pounding headache. It feels like you’ve got pins and needles behind your eyes and you groan as the morning light, even dimmed by the thick tarp of your tent, stings your vision. You’re half tempted to just roll over in your cot and go back to sleep, but you decide against it.

Eventually, you make it out of bed, mainly because you hear the commotion of the men getting up and likely heading for breakfast. You look around for some clean clothes and quickly realize… you forgot to do laundry this week. Crap. You decide to pick your least offensive clothing and get dressed, reminding yourself to do laundry as soon as your shift is over. You begrudgingly start towards the dining tent.

It’s busier than usual this morning, as many crew members are trying to recover from the night before. Ezra is sitting with a few of the crew, talking and laughing together. He looks up as soon as you enter, his expression going from lighthearted merriment to a look of concern in an instant. "Hey!" he says, immediately getting up to come towards you.

“Hey,” you try to offer him a smile but your head is still pounding and you feel overall off, making it look more like a grimace. He looks at you, your expression immediately putting him on alert.

"Are you alright?" he asks with concern in his voice. He looks you up and down, noticing the slight unsteadiness in your steps.

“Not really, I’ve got this killer headache." You explain, taking a seat at the nearest table as a wave of nausea overtakes you. You take a deep breath and rest your head on your knees, closing your eyes for a moment. Ezra is clearly worried. He quickly pulls out a handkerchief and lays it on the table in front of you, before coming around the table to kneel down next to you.

"What does it feel like?" he asks, gently placing a hand on your shoulder. He glances up at you, looking for clues as he studies you. "Nausea? Light sensitivity?"

"Mmm, yup. Both of those." You reply as you take another deep breath. He places a gentle hand underneath your chin, lifting your head back.

"Look at me," he says, his tone full of concern. He quickly studies your expression, making a note of the paleness of your face before taking note of your sunken cheeks. He moves a bit away as he grabs his multitool from his belt, clicking on the small lightpen. “Follow my finger,” He instructs as he moves both the pen and his pointer finger from one edge of your vision to the other, testing your eyes’ reflexes. "You look really ill, but your eyes are responding fine," he says after a moment when he’s finished. "Stay right here," he says to you as he stands back up.

Ezra glances around, looking for any signs of a medic or medical supplies. You don't even have the energy to flush from how close he is, but you still feel relieved when he stands up. You close your eyes and take another breath, feeling the nausea start to subside. He leaves for a few minutes but you don’t even notice until he’s back.

He quickly returns to your side, carrying a few different supplies in his hands. He hands you a small bottle of water and a pill bottle, placing them on the table for you. "Here," he says, "drink some water, and take two of these," he adds, placing the pill bottle next to the bottle of water.

"What are these?" You ask him as you open up the bottle and place two into your palm. They're ovular and pink. He smiles and shakes his head slightly.

"They're for stomach troubles. Should help with the nausea," he says. "Don't worry, they're perfectly safe - some of the other crew take them all the time." Ezra watches you carefully as you take the pills. "Usually for when they eat too much grub after a shift.”

You nod and take both of them, swallowing them down with a couple swigs of water. You thank him when you're done, setting the water aside and taking a few seconds to wait for the pills to take effect. He takes a seat near you, seeming a bit more relaxed now that you've taken the medication. He watches you carefully for a moment before speaking again. "You should head back to your tent, and get some rest. I'd hate for you to overdo it this early in the day," he says, his tone still concerned.

"I can't, I gotta get the shift started," You say as you notice the rest of the crew putting on their helmets and discarding their mostly empty food trays to head out for the latest dig of the day. You make sure you feel steady before you slowly stand up, grabbing your helmet and putting it on.

Ezra gives a quick nod as you grab your equipment and start to head out of the tent. He gets up to follow you as you walk towards the group of others. "Take it easy if you can, okay?" Ezra says, trying to keep his voice low enough so only you can hear him. You nod and thank him again with a soft smile, appreciating that he’s looking out for you.

He smiles back, glancing around and making sure no one is paying attention to the two of you as you two walk a few yards. But he can’t help himself before whispering, "Ya know, you could stay in your tent for a day or two while you recover, and no one would bat an eyelash," he says quietly. "I know this expedition is important, but your health is more."

“Don’t be ridiculous, Ezra. I’ll be fine.” You insist. “I took the meds, I’m sure I’ll get over whatever this is soon.” You two reach your grid and you begin setting your pack and equipment down. He looks at you for a moment, a slight frown on his face as he watches to make sure you're doing alright.

"I'm not goin’ to be able to talk you into it, am I?" he asks you teasingly. You can hear the worry in his tone, though, and his expression is one more of trepidation than amusement.

“No, you can’t.” You say with a bit of a smile. “We have to work. I’ll be fine.” You say, beginning to get a bit irritated with his concern. It’s not that you find it annoying, but you know your work is important. Still, it’s not his fault that you woke up feeling like garbage. You sigh. “Look, if I’m feeling worse, I’ll take a break. Are you good with that?” You ask him.

He seems to sense your irritation and nods, submitting. "Yeah, I get it. It's our job," he says, his expression turning serious again. He stands with you for a moment longer, watching as you kneel down to access the gem mounds below the forest floor. He glances around to make sure that everyone is occupied before speaking again. "Good luck with the diggin’," he whispers. "I'm sure you'll find somethin’ amazin’."

You soften as he wishes you luck. “You too. I’ll see you at lunch?” You offer with a hopeful look. Ezra nods and smiles at you, seeming a bit more reassured now that you're ready to start digging.

"Yeah, I'll meet you at lunch," he replies. Ezra gives you a little nod and starts to head off in the direction of his space. You're still not feeling great, but as soon as you start working, your mind begins to become focused on the task at hand. It's easier to ignore the headache and nausea when you're digging... at least, for the time being.

All work momentarily pauses as the alarms coming through your radios signal that Denver’s got an announcement,

“Morning, crew,” He greets and you all respond in kind, all eyes on the ground moving upwards to watch him as he stands at the watchtower. “I know we’ve got Kevva’s Light coming up this weekend so I’m making this announcement to every last one of you to let you know that you’ve got the rest of the weekend off-” The crew erupts in cheers, and you smile. “Our shifts will be cut short today, only half a day, and then we’ve got the next 2 and a half days for ourselves.” Your group cheers again and the man’s smile widens into a grin. “Feel free to celebrate our Goddess’ Holy Day however you want: rest, party… drink.” He says that last bit with playful emphasis and there’s another cheer. “I’m planning a small feast in the dining hall tomorrow evening, so feel free to come hang out if you’d like. Now, let’s have a great dig,” With that, the work resumes and you’re glad the happy announcement brought you some needed distraction.

But unfortunately, the distraction doesn’t last long. You spend hour after hour digging but it seems like your luck on this expedition has finally run dry. Your frustration seems to bring the headache back tenfold, and you decide to finally take that break, sitting down on a nearby log to rest. You look around and spot Ezra a few yards away.

He also seems to be having an awful dig today, if his near-empty pack is anything to go by. His brow is furrowed and his frown is deep as he continues to dig. He looks over at you and notices you taking that rest. He walks over and takes a seat next to you, glancing over with a sympathetic look as he surveys his own pile. He lets out a sigh and looks up at the clouds, seeming frustrated with the lack of discoveries he's made so far.

"Well, this is just peachy, ain’t it?" he asks, turning to face you with a small laugh. Ezra pauses for a moment when he sees the state of your own pile. "It looks like things aren't goin’ too well for us today, huh?" he says with an awkward smile. You offer the same awkward smile back.

“I suppose not.” You say. You sigh and run a hand through your hair as your head throbs again. “At least it’s almost lunchtime.” You say with a small frown. Ezra nods, seeming to reach the same conclusion as you.

"Yeah," he says, offering a small smile. "Lunchtime is always a good thing, no matter the circumstances," he says. "And hey, you never know what good the Holy Day will bring," Ezra says optimistically. After another long moment, Ezra stands back up. "If you want, we could go over the map together for next week? Maybe that’ll give us another avenue of labor to dig into," he adds, offering a hopeful look. You nod, even if you were actually hoping to get some rest during lunch. But who knows? Maybe a distraction and some time with the closest person you can call ‘friend’ is what you need.

“Ok, sure.” You say softly. You stand up with another sigh. “C’mon, let’s keep going. It’s only another half-hour until lunch.” You say and stand up.

Ezra follows you to your area first. As he walks, Ezra also occasionally glances over at you, looking for any signs of how you're feeling. "You still holdin’ up okay?" he asks, his voice soft so none of the other crew members can overhear.

“Yeah, doing a bit better.” You say, shrugging your shoulders. “My head’s hurting again, but I think I’ll just look for something in my medkit once my shift is over.” You say softly as you set your own stuff down and resume your work.

He nods and wishes you luck again before going back to his space. Every now and then he glances over to make sure you're doing alright, watching you work. He clears a good portion of his area, glancing over at his watch and sighing from being disappointed with the lack of discoveries. So he decides to go back to you again.

"How’s it this time around? Any luck?" he asks, his voice hopeful for you despite his obvious disappointed expression.

“Nope.” You say bluntly, sighing with frustration. The alarms ring to signal lunch time and you throw your stuff down where it is, marching away from the site. “Goddamnit, not one good dig. I can’t believe it.” You mumble, half to yourself, half to Ezra. He exhales sharply and places his hands on his hips, a look of frustration on his face.

"I know the feelin’," he says, glancing around at the empty piles of dirt. "Sometimes it's not meant to be," he adds. Ezra then turns back towards you, offering you a small smile. "Come on... let's head to lunch," he says before starting to walk towards the dining tent with the rest of the men.

You two grab your trays and get into the growing line of men, Ezra allowing you to serve yourself first.

“So, got any plans for Kevva’s Light?” He asks, a little too hopeful that your answer is no.

“Not really,” You admit with a soft shrug. “I didn’t grow up religious or celebrating. I mean we always had time off on that weekend, so my parents would pull me out of school early the day before and we’d go and do stuff together,” You pause as you both grab a bowl to serve yourselves some stuff that resembles stew. “But, that stopped after my dad passed and we never really made an effort to pick it back up. If anything, I just sleep a lot.” You add with a small chuckle, making Ezra smile as you grab a bread roll next. “How about you?” He shrugs and serves you both some green juice.

“I grew up pretty devoted, if I’m bein’ honest.” He responds, seeming almost embarrassed by that fact. “But, I haven’t been an official follower in a long time.” You two begin the walk to the closest available table. “To be frank, I ditched the whole idea while out here.” He says, and there’s something slightly bitter in his tone and his eyes but you don’t push it. Instead, you nod,

“I get that. I have friends back home who did too. Those celebrations do seem pretty fun though. I know they and their families would have big parties or do those moonlit rituals.” You say, both sitting down and beginning to eat. He cracks a smile at that, at ease again.

“My parents did everythin’: the Observations of Silence, the big family feast, the Moonlight Dance. Pretty sure it was their favorite holiday of the year.” He says. You smile when he does, before taking a spoonful of warm stew.

“Well, we can always go to Denver’s dinner? Sounds like a lot of the crew is planning on attending?” You offer. His smile widens when you say, ‘we’, still not used to the fact that you consider him in your plans now.

“Actually,” He says, and pauses for just a beat too long as he figures out the best way to word this. “I was thinkin’ we could do somethin’ a little more private in one of our tents? I’m still not keen on celebratin’ much, but I think we could have a special dinner for the two of us?” His eyes are almost cinnamon in this light and warm as they meet yours in a hopeful gaze. You smile and nod. There’s something in his tone that makes you see that this isn’t just another get-together. For whatever reason you can tell that this… means something else.

“Sure. Why not?” His shoulders practically sag with relief and you both eat your stew and bread in a comfortable silence. But then, your head begins to throb again. You wince and he notices.

“Headache’s still here?” He asks and you nod with a grimace. “We should get you your medkit.” He grabs your now empty dishes along with his and takes them to the wash pile before you two leave the tent, heading for your tent.

You follow along, feeling your head begin to throb even worse. You ignore it for the moment. You lead him inside. “Have a seat.” You say, gesturing to your cot, while you grab a chair for yourself. After you’re both seated, Ezra sighs and glances over at you again and sees that you’re still in pain.

"Let me get it for you.” He says.

“It should be right above you in the cabinet right there.” You say, pointing behind him, a few feet above his head.

Ezra looks up at where you're pointing, finding the medkit resting exactly where you said. He nods and quickly gets up, grabbing the kit off of the shelf. Ezra returns to his seat, holding the kit in his hand. "Here you go," he says, handing it to you. "Do you want some water with those?" he asks, indicating to the pills in the kit.

“I have some, thanks.” You say, grabbing your canteen and opening it. You grab a pain reliever and take it quickly, hoping it kicks in fast. “Ok, so have you got that map to look at?” You ask him. He nods and pulls out the map, quickly glancing over it to familiarize himself with the layout.

"Let's see... we've already covered this whole area right here," he says, pointing to a section of the map. "And we did a bit more over here," he adds, pointing to another area before looking at you. "So it looks like the next spot to hit is this area here. Hopefully, that'll be a bit more lucky for us," Ezra says with a smile. "What do you think?" Your brow furrows.

“Mm, that’s too close to those groups I noticed the other night. We don’t want to cause any trouble. Do you know if Denver’s had any communication with them?” You ask him. He sighs and shakes his head.

"I don't think so. We can't seem to establish any kind of line of communication with the other groups," he says, sounding a bit frustrated. Ezra pauses for a moment, thinking about the situation. "You're right," he says eventually. "That area is a bit too close for comfort. Do you have any other ideas? I want to make sure we're findin’ somethin’ today. Just not somethin’ that'll bring us trouble." He pauses for a moment, looking at you.

“Well, there is this area, closer to the river.” You say, pointing to an area further east. “Maybe this one might work?” Your tone is hopeful but when you look up to meet Ezra’s eyes, his frown and furrowed brow put a stop to your optimism. “What?”

He sighs and shakes his head again, seeming more concerned now. "That's even worse," he says, his voice filled with a hint of urgency. "That area is a bit of a no-go," he adds, staring at you with a serious expression. He pauses for a moment before speaking again. "The groups near the river have been especially unfriendly," Ezra explains. "I... I can't quite go into detail, but there was an incident the other night." Ezra looks like he might say more, but he stops himself. "That area's off-limits," he says finally.

“Well we can’t go your route, that’s also too close.” You point out. “We’ve got to be able to get to the area near the river.” He sighs and rubs his face in frustration.

"We're runnin’ outta options..." he says, sounding a bit exasperated. "What ‘bout this here?" he asks, his voice rising in pitch as he points out another area on the map. "It's a bit of a walk... and it's goin’ into an area we haven't explored yet, but maybe that'll help our cause." Ezra offers a hopeful smile, staring back at you. You shake your head, your own frustration climbing too.

“I mentioned that spot to Denver when we first got here; he said it’s full of unstable caves that have been known to collapse. He doesn’t want to risk any of us going in there.” You say.

“Goddmnit.” He mumbles. You two spend the next five minutes pouring over that map, trying out different plans on how to find a more bountiful site. All to no avail. Finally, Ezra pushes away the map with a frustrated groan.

He sighs again and puts his head in his hands, seeming like he might just give up. "Do you have any ideas?" he asks, his tone filled with desperation. "We're runnin’ outta time, and we're runnin’ outta options. I need somethin’," he says, sounding stressed and anxious. Ezra glances up at you again, looking like he might just go off and try digging on his own. "Do you have anythin’? Anythin’ at all?"

You run a hand through your hair again, wincing when your fingers catch on a small knot. You undo it with your fingers before sighing. “I know, Ezra. I know.” You say, a slight tone of annoyance beginning to creep into your voice. “You’re not the only one that needs this dig to go well.”

Ezra looks up sharply at the change in your tone, seeming a bit hurt by the annoyance. "No, I know that," he says, sounding annoyed himself. "It's just that... it feels like you've shot down every idea I've had so far," he says, throwing his hands up, visibly frustrated. "I don't know what you want from me. I've been workin’ just as hard as you, and I need somethin’ to turn up," he says, his voice raising as he gets more irritated. You shake your head.

“You know that’s not it. I’m not shooting down your ideas for nothing.” You protest, crossing your arms over your chest defensively. He stares at you for a moment, still not liking the tone you're taking with him, but he tries to keep his temper in check.

"So why are you shootin’ ‘em down?" he asks, sounding genuinely confused. Ezra takes a breath and puts his hands on his knees, trying to remain calm. He pauses for a moment before speaking again. "Look, I'm just as frustrated as you right now," he says. "I'm just tryin’ to find somethin’ that we can both agree on, somethin’ that actually has a chance of workin’."

“I know that.” You snap. “But this terrain is dangerous. If it’s not the obstacles, it’s the groups around us. We can’t just go anywhere we want, you know that.”

"Yeah, I do know that," Ezra replies, throwing his hands up again in frustration as he paces a bit. "But I can work with danger, okay? I can handle the groups, I know how to navigate the terrain, none of that bothers me," he answers. Ezra stares daggers at you, but he doesn't say anything further as he takes a few moments to calm himself down. "We just need a spot to go where we actually have a chance of findin’ somethin’ worthwhile, alright?" Ezra asks, his tone still a bit harsh, but not quite as intense as before.

You let out a sound of frustration and rise from your seat, rolling your eyes. “Kevva above, you’re such a vet.” You say.

"What are you tryin’ to say?" His voice suddenly sharp as he asks, his eyebrows furrowing together in confusion. Ezra stares at you, not wanting to speak out of turn or jump to conclusions. He also keeps a close eye on your tone, as the frustration earlier still has him on edge.

“I’m saying that just because you’ve been here longer than most of us doesn’t mean you know everything, Ezra.” You say, crossing your arms again. “I know you think you can handle yourself but we both know a lot of those groups are the ‘shoot first, ask questions later’ type.”

Ezra sighs and shakes his head at you, clearly frustrated. "I never said I knew everythin’," he says, bringing his voice back down. "But you know I've been out here, dealin’ with those 'shoot first' groups for years," Ezra says, turning away from you, and looking at the ground. He glances back over at you after a moment, and it looks like he's trying to stay calm. But it's hard. "I never said I was perfect, did I? You know how hard it is, especially out here. So maybe consider that I know what I'm talkin’ about a lil bit."

“I know you know your stuff, Ezra. But you’re clearly not getting that this shit isn’t just a walk in the park. If something happens to you, it damages more than just you. It impacts all of us.” You say with a frown.

Ezra stares at you, visibly conflicted. "Do you think I haven't thought about that?" he asks, his voice still tense. Ezra raises his hands as he stands up straighter and puts them on his hips, not knowing how to explain himself to you. He takes another moment to collect his thoughts before turning back towards you, speaking once more. "Look, I'm not suggestin’ we go out and seek out trouble. I know the risks... believe me." Ezra pauses for a moment, taking a deep breath before speaking again. "But we need some course of action, here.”

“Of course we do, but it takes more than just ‘I can work with danger’,” you say, using air quotes. “It takes planning and strategy and hoping that these jagoff groups aren’t keen to kill us!”

He rolls his eyes and throws his hands up in surrender. He huffs and turns away from you, starting to lose his patience. Ezra takes a step closer, his voice raised again. "Okay, rook, then what's your plan, huh? What's your 'strategy'?" Ezra glares at you and points a finger in your direction, daring you to give him anything. "Because it sure looks like you've got nothin’! Nothin' but my plan. So what's it gonna be?"

You frown. “Ugh, you’re so infuriating!”

He gives you a smug smile and leans in, getting close to you. "And you think you're not infuriatin’?" he asks, taking a moment to consider you. "I'm doin’ my best here," he continues, taking a more serious tone. "We both know how high-stakes this all is, but we also know how important it is to get a dig done... you need to trust me here," Ezra says, his voice softer now. Ezra gazes at you, waiting for a response. You consider his tone as you take a minute. He’s trying to diffuse the situation. You rub the back of your neck tiredly and step away to refocus.

“Fine… you’re right.” You concede in kind, your own voice is less harsh now. “I’m sorry… we’re obviously still able to get on each other’s nerves too easily.” You say, trying to joke to lessen the tension further. There's a small hint of a smile on his face at your response.

"Yeah, I guess we are," he says, chuckling lightly. Ezra clears his throat and rubs his face. "I know we're just a little tense because of this situation, but I don't want either of us to say somethin’ we'll regret, yeah?" You nod, agreeing with him.

“We’re too tense right now. Maybe we just should take some time away from each other. Just for the rest of the day until we cool off.” You suggest. He nods, understanding where you're coming from.

"Yeah, that might be for the best," he says, agreeing with your suggestion. "Let's both go off and do somethin’ else for a bit, just to clear our heads, and then we can try again once we're a little more relaxed." Ezra takes a deep breath and stretches his arms out, trying to release the tension from his muscles. "Do you mind if I go do a little diggin’ on my own for a bit?" Ezra asks, looking back at you. "It always calms me down, you know?" You nod and look around your tent, noticing the full hamper and remembering what you’d told yourself this morning.

“Yeah. I think I’m gonna get some laundry done.” You say quietly and walk over to your hamper. “We can talk about things later at dinner, how’s that sound?” You ask.

Ezra nods and gives you a small smile. "Sounds good to me," he says, taking a few steps toward the doorway to exit the tent. "Maybe havin’ somethin’ else to focus on will help clear our heads, yeah? I’ll see you in a few hours." Ezra pauses at the entrance and looks back over at you. His tone still has a bit of tension in it, but he's trying to move past everything. He takes a deep breath before exiting the tent to leave you some room to breathe.

You spend the rest of your lunch and your shift doing laundry. Unlike life back home, you have to do most everything manually. So you grab your large washing tub, your washboard, some soap packs, and your hamper. For the next couple of hours, you work on your clothing, washing every article carefully, twice. You even grab your boots and helmet and clean them as well. When you’re done, you set up a quick makeshift clothesline with some rope between two trees to hang all your clothes to air-dry with the remaining sunlight.

Ezra spends the next few hours digging on his own. He moves his way a fair distance from the campsite, and for some time you can see his silhouette against the horizon as he digs in the dirt and rocks. He seems quite frustrated at times, kicking the ground and throwing his equipment to the floor, muttering to himself. Eventually, he stops, wiping his brow and sitting on the forest floor to take a break. "Kevva..." he mumbles to himself. He lets out another sigh and lays back, staring up at the sky for a while.

You’re tempted to walk over, but you know you should keep your distance. Things are uneasy with you two right now and your friendship with him is currently rocky at best. So instead you watch him as he eventually gives in, for the time being, heading to his own tent presumably to wash up for the evening. You grab some of your clothing from the line, the other half still damp, before you do the same, heading inside your tent to shower and leaving the rest of your clean things to dry.

After you’re ready for dinner, you exit your tent just as Ezra’s exiting his. You’ve changed into some shorts and a t-shirt while Ezra’s in a white muscle shirt and a pair of sweats. Your eyes meet and he seems hesitant, as if he wants to say something, but is unsure of how to. You notice that his mood hasn’t lightened, the furrow between his brows still tight and his mouth turned downwards. He walks over and takes a deep breath and then speaks, his voice quiet.

"...Hey," he starts, "listen... I'm... I'm a little frustrated right now, yeah?" Ezra pauses, letting his words hang there in the air.

“Yeah,” you say playfully to keep that tension from returning, even if you feel it rolling off of both of you in waves. “I can see that…” Your voice softens when you give him a once-over; “is there anything I can do to help?” You ask him.

Ezra takes a moment to gather his thoughts before replying. "I think... I think you know that it's important for me to get a diggin’ done," he starts carefully. "... and I know that's important for us all, but... I just feel like I'm bein’ questioned at every step of the way." Ezra pauses, letting his words linger for a moment. "That's frustratin’." He asks, staring at you with an expectation in his eyes. Ezra's tone is still quiet and subdued, but there's a slight sharpness to it now.

“Ez…” you sigh, not wanting to irritate him further. “Look, it’s been a tough day for both of us, can we agree on that?” You ask.

"Yes, we can," Ezra answers, his tone softening a bit. He breathes in slowly, trying to let go of some of the tension he’s feeling. "Look, I know you're just tryin’ to make sure we don't rush things, but sometimes I feel like you're not even givin’ my ideas a chance." Ezra pauses for a moment, considering his words before continuing. "I know this is a serious expedition with serious consequences, but we can't be too careful, either. We have to take some risks, otherwise we won't get anywhere."

You nod. “I know. You do know what you’re doing, otherwise you wouldn’t still be out here.” You say. “I’m sorry. It’s not that I don’t trust you or trust your instincts I just…” you trail off for a moment, not wanting to say what you really want to.

Ezra waits patiently as you consider your words, looking at you intently. He senses that you have something more to say, but don't know how to say it. A single eyebrow raises in curiosity, silently encouraging you to continue.

“I worry, alright? Believe it or not: I worry about you.” You admit, averting your eyes.

Ezra's eyebrow furrows and he sighs. "I know it can be dangerous out here, especially as things have been tense with the dig site lately," he says patiently. Ezra takes a deep breath before continuing, his tone getting a bit softer. "But our team looks after each other, right?" Ezra pauses for a moment, then continues. There’s obvious doubt in your eyes but you nod anyway, conceding for now.

“Right.” You say quietly. “Can we move on from this, please?” You ask him. “I’d really just like to talk about something else.” You say, rubbing your head as you feel your headache throb again. Ezra nods, his expression softening as he sees you rubbing your head.

"Of course, we can," Ezra asks, his voice almost remorseful. "I know I can get a bit tense sometimes, and I don't think I'm the most likable person," Ezra says, a bit of self-deprecation creeping into his tone. Ezra looks at you for a moment before speaking again, his voice softer now, seemingly more concerned for you than before. "... is your head still hurtin’?" Ezra asks, genuinely worried. You nod.

“I think it’s all the stress from today,” you mutter, your tone a bit bitter but it softens when you look at him again. “Let’s go get something to eat.” You say. Ezra nods, taking a step toward you again. He puts one of his arms out in a friendly manner.

"Sounds good to me. I know I could use a bite," he says, his tone still concerned over your pain. Ezra pauses for a moment to think, his expression becoming more serious once again. With a slow breath, Ezra looks at you and says, "... about that plan, though. Can we talk about that? Just for a quick second."

“Ezra,” you warn him as you give him a long look. “Can you just drop it?” Your tone is sharper again.

“Just one conversation, c’mon, I really think we should-”

“Kevva above you are so frustrating!” You say. “I don’t want to talk about this plan anymore. If you want to talk about it, feel free to go to Denver and argue about it with him and the rest of the crew but leave me out of it!” You snap and storm off to your tent angrily.

Ezra stares at you in disbelief as you storm off. His expression is a mixture of shock and confusion as he watches you disappear into your tent. Ezra takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly. He stares at the ground in dismay for a moment as he tries to process everything. Ezra's expression suddenly shifts to one of anger. He clenches his fists and takes a few steps toward your tent, throwing the entry flap aside, and following after you

"What the hell was that?" Ezra asks, not shouting, but still a bit more forceful than before.

“It’s called ‘leaving the conversation’! You should be used to me doing it by now!” You snap back, your arms now crossed over your chest defensively.

"You can't just end the conversation because you're frustrated," Ezra snaps back, trying to hold back his anger. "I can't even ask simple questions without you gettin’ angry. You can't just brush everythin’ off like it doesn't matter! We have a plan and a responsibility here!" Ezra's tone is stern now, and the intensity is clearly increasing in his voice.

“No, you have a plan! A ridiculous plan that is going to get you killed and I’m not going to sit around and wait for that to happen!” You snap back, marching up to him angrily.

"Are you listenin’ to yourself right now?" Ezra asks, his voice full of genuine passion. "You won't let me just ask a question about it without snappin’ at me! We're supposed to be on the same team, but you don't trust me at all. You don't listen to any of my ideas, and when I try to discuss a strategy, you storm off like a child!" Ezra's hands are clenched into fists by his side. The energy of the argument is clearly growing more intense as your joint anger builds.

“So you’d rather, what, I just stay in place and listen to you go on and on about this plan that you haven’t even thought through fully yet?!” You yell back.

"And you'd rather what, yell at me until I stop talkin’?" Ezra mocks back defensively. "We need a plan, and if you have any better ideas for doin’ this, then let's hear ‘em!” He crosses his arms and leans back to watch you scramble for a response. When you don’t have one, the corner of his lip quirks up into a smug grin. “Do you?? Or are we just gonna fight until one of us gives up?!" Ezra's eyes are burning with anger now, and his expression is a mask of raw emotion. The argument is becoming increasingly heated as you stare each other down.

“I don’t give up!” You yell back, moving closer to him.

“Yeah, clearly!” He yells. The words hang between you two as you both glare at each other, the energy around you both intense, angry, and frustrated. You sigh and take a breath, trying to get your shit mood under control.

“Look, just get out! I’m done talking about this. My head is killing me, this day has been utter shit, and we’re obviously not getting anywhere with this.”

Ezra takes a step back, his expression now showing hurt and a slight sense of betrayal. "Look, I'm only trying to-" Ezra starts to speak, but he's cut off by you telling him to get out. Ezra sighs in defeat and his expression shifts from hurt to anger again. He stares at you for a moment before throwing his arms up in the air. "Fine. I tried," he says in a huff. He starts to turn around before stopping and spinning back around to face you again. "Kevvassake, do you ever listen to anyone?"

“No, I guess I don’t.” You mumble with clear sarcasm as you turn away from him.

Ezra seems like he’s about to leave, still clearly angry, but then he turns back, marching up to you and turning you to face him. The forcefulness of that action makes you pause as he grabs you by the shoulders firmly.

“What the hell??” You ask him.

Ezra stares at you, seemingly not aware of his sudden show of aggression. He still appears angry, but now there's a sense of confusion as well. He looks conflicted and troubled, but there’s a set in his jaw. A determination. He suddenly moves his hold from your shoulders to your forearms and pulls you close, his eyes shifting from determination to passion. You can barely even process it before a pair of lips comes into contact with your cheekbone; just the lightest brush against your skin. But it’s enough to send a jolt through you, straight to your abdomen in a hot zing. Your eyes widen for a moment, mainly out of pure confusion.

You were almost sure he was about to kiss you. But before you can voice that, he moves. He pulls you closer again, his breath coming in quick and shallow as he kisses your cheek again, then your jaw, your chin, the side of your neck. The kisses are short and quick, but they still make you weak in the knees. Your hands go to his shoulders, grabbing onto him like an anchor. You feel his smile against your skin as he works his way back up to the underside of your ear, his facial scruff tickling,

"Goddess above, I've wanted to do that for a very long time..." Ezra mutters between kisses as he makes his way down again. He puts one of his hands on the back of your head and pulls you even closer to him. His lips begin softly sucking on your skin, and there’s the lightest threat of teeth, even if he doesn’t bite down.

You shiver hard, your pulse quickening under his mouth. “Ez…” you gasp. “Ezra, hold on… you’re,” His tongue darts out and it feels so smooth and warm and impossibly soft. Your thighs clench. “Oh goddess above,”

It gently flicks against the sensitive skin of your neck, his breath coming in raspy. He kisses your jaw, making his way up to your ear again. "Do you think you can keep quiet for just a little while?" Ezra purrs softly, and you can feel his hot breath. His hand begins to caress the side of your face, his fingers softly brushing against your temple. Ezra looks at you passionately - his eyes fixed on yours. As you meet them, you notice that they’re now darker than you’ve ever seen them, the pupil almost completely overtaking the iris.

You groan softly, curling a hand into his hair. “I’m…. I just… I don’t understand. I know how you feel about me but I… god I wasn’t expecting-“

"You feel it too, don't you?" Ezra asks with a smile, his voice tender. He moves one of his legs in between yours, and the urge to grind yourself against it is pathetic. He can tell too, can see the way your eyes flit down as you debate it for the smallest second. He leans into you, looking at your face with desire. He brings his knee right to the apex of your thighs and gently teases you, watching your mouth silently drop open.

“Oh… Ezra…” his name sounds like a devotion as you groan, “We-We shouldn’t be doing this. We can’t even hold a conversation right now.” You say with a breathless laugh, even as you pull him closer.

Ezra looks at you for a moment, but that look is soon replaced with a devilish grin. "I think we can find a more suitable way to communicate," Ezra says with a smirk. He gazes at you with lust in his eyes. He now moves his lips down to your collarbone. He moves his knee away, and shoves your shorts and underwear aside, not even bothering to undress you as he uses two fingers to touch you. Your body almost freezes.

You gasp. “Ez!” You clamp a hand over your mouth as you realize that was a bit too loud in the now silence of the camp. He lets out a throaty, breathless laugh of his own, just a rough chuckle that makes you hyperaware of his chest against yours.

"You really need to learn how to be quiet..." He whispers, his voice filled with desire. He moves his head a bit and kisses down the side of your neck again; his touch is softer, more delicate now. "I really wish you could see yourself at this moment," Ezra says in a gentle, yet playful tone.

He nudges you gently back and guides you over to the nearest wall of the tent, pinning you in place with his body. His other hand runs through your hair, tugging on it slightly as his fingers return eagerly between your thighs. "Oh, I can feel you too," Ezra whispers softly between kisses. “Ya feel that?” He asks, pulling back to meet your eyes while his touch never ceases. It even increases in both roughness and pace, making you groan again. He waits for a response, his eyes burning as he looks down at you. He moves your hand away from your mouth, a silent command for you to respond.

“Y-Yes, I feel that, Ez.” His grin is triumphant, his eyes shining as you finally reveal how good he’s making you feel. He leans in again to mumble in your ear.

"I want more..." he says in a pleading groan, his lips barely moving, "I want to touch you more than just this, darlin’. I want to touch you in ways that no one’s ever touched anyone before..." The sound of his fingers moving in and out of you distracts you for just a moment. "Tell me... tell me that you want me, too," Ezra whispers, his lips moving over yours, being careful not to make contact. He's so close, so, so, so close… But he pulls away at the last moment, making you almost cry out as you ache for his touch to return.

Finally, in a longing sigh, you breathe out:

“Please…”

His body trembles. His heart is beating so hard that he swears he can feel every blood cell pulsing throughout his veins. His kisses on your skin return but this time they’re hungry… starving. He has no words. All he knows is the scent of your hair, the sounds from your mouth, the taste of your flesh. The way his body is pressed against yours is driving him crazy. This feels so good, too good. He slowly brings the hand that was in your hair out, his index finger gently tracing a line along your collarbone. He smiles, feeling the soft skin underneath his fingertips.

You shiver at the touch of his fingertip, even that small delicate gesture making your body react. He’s touched you before but not like that. Not so gently but so clearly veiled with desire before.

He feels your body reacting, and his heart rate increases. He wants more. He can't stop. Slowly, deliberately, he takes his time, enjoying every part of you. He gently slides his fingers down toward the small of your back, and as he feels the dip of your lower back, he presses his hand into the soft skin there. But he still doesn’t give you a chance to move. Not that that’s the first thing on your to-do list at the moment. He moves his hand lower, and he lets his fingers trace along the top of your thigh, coming just within a few inches of an area where no other man should touch you again.

Your breathing hitches when he reaches that spot and you try to regain some composure but you can’t. A soft pathetic whimper escapes your mouth as your body already feels addicted to his touch. A sound you’ve never made around him before.

He feels you make the sound, and just like that, his brain stops working. He can't control himself anymore. He wants you, needs you, but he knows he should stop himself. He's pushing you into something he thinks you never thought you would want.

"If it's too much... just tell me to stop, and I will... just say the word, and I'll back away. I'll stop, I promise you that.” Ezra says, his voice thick with lust and desire, his eyes locked on yours.

“It’s not too much.” You respond. He grins again, a soft sound of almost disbelief escaping his throat. He runs his free hand down your back, to your hips.... and then, suddenly, slides it underneath your shirt.

"Let me love you, yeah?" Ezra whispers. You nod, the tempo of his fingers inside you hitting all the right beats as you can’t do much in terms of talking, biting your lip so hard to shut yourself up you can almost taste blood. But all too soon your reasoning rears its raucous head, not letting you fully live in the moment.

“Ezra… I-I’m just confused.” You admit; your heartbeat is racing. “I don’t… I just don’t understand.” You subconsciously lick your lips, wishing he would give you a taste of him. As if reading your mind, he smiles and pulls away just a little to remove his shirt.

Unlike that day at the pool, you take full advantage of the sight, drinking in his skin. Your eyes drink in the exact tan, the various scars, the hair on his chest, and the happy trail leading down lower. Your own skin grows hot and you see his response in kind, turning that now-familiar shade of rose. He smirks and lets you ogle all you want, before he leans in, kissing your nose to direct your eyes back to his face,

"We're both confused," Ezra says softly, his index finger coming up to trace the outline of your lips again. "But right now... right now is all we have, and I just want to be with you. Nothin’ else matters. This is ours, just for us, tonight. No one should know; no one has to interfere."

“Just for tonight?” Your tone is pensive, thinking as you look down for a moment. You shouldn’t agree to this. It would be career suicide. But he’s already said no one needs to know.

“This can just be stress relief.” He lifts your eyes to him again with just a tap on your chin. "And then we forget it ever happened,” Ezra asks, the excitement building in his voice. "Just for tonight, and then we never talk about it again... deal?" His hand drifts down again and your body immediately buzzes in anticipation as his fingers once again sneak their way into your underwear.

“Deal.”

He smiles as you agree, feeling a wave of excitement and relief wash over him. He whispers into your ear as he comes closer, his breath warm against your skin.

“Fuck, you’re so good for me," Ezra says. You're his, and he wants you more than anything else at this moment. You're his to love, to touch, to kiss, to taste. His face is buried into the soft skin of your neck, and he breathes you in deeply, just wanting as much of you as possible.

You're all he wants. The taste of you, the smell of you, the heat of you, the feel of you against him. He speeds up his pace, giving it to you freely now as the sound of his fingers and your combined ragged breaths become the only sounds in the room.

"You feel so good," Ezra whispers, his voice husky with desire. "So good."

“O-Oh my god…” You haven’t been touched like this in ages. Your head rests against the wall and your eyes close as you don’t make one single attempt to stop him.

Ezra watches your face, his eyes filled with want, desire, and lust. The feel of your skin against his fingertips is otherworldly, your body like fire in his hands. His breath is heavy, his chest rising and falling with each deep breath as he watches you and feels you against him. A slow smile spreads across Ezra's face, and he leans in, his body brushing against yours, his voice heavy and sultry as he breathes out.

"So good..." he purrs, his fingers moving slower and more intimately.

You moan at the feeling, “I swear to god if you tell anyone about this-“ Ezra smirks at your threat, but he doesn't stop what he's doing. In fact, he moves even slower as if just desperate to continue teasing you.

"I won't tell anyone, don't worry." He says coyly. He takes a moment to try and compose himself, swallowing hard. "But Blessed Mother, you feel so soft..."

“Oh fuck,” The rhythm of his fingers, his words. It’s all driving you crazy. You never expected anyone to make you feel like this, especially not Ezra. And yet, here you are. Completely at his mercy.

Ezra chuckles at your sudden outburst, his fingers pausing for a split second until he picks up again, and this time his rhythm picks up faster.

And as soon as he does that, your breathing rushes back in, and you let out an incredible moan. It escapes your throat against your own judgment, your head tilting back to face the ceiling of the tent. When he hears that, Ezra’s entire body sings, like something awakens in him. Something desperate to hear you make that exact sound again, no matter what he has to do. Your hips begin to move, chasing that rhythm, that delicious burn from his fingers as more moans follow the first.

"That’s right," he says softly after a moment, his voice still a bit breathless, and his eyes are locked on yours, "Do you know how much you turn me on?" he asks in a low voice. “Do you have any idea how many times I’ve ached to do this for you?” The tension in your body is building, building, building…

He doesn't stop what he's doing. He's in control now, and he can see the tension building inside you. He can feel your body giving into it, and he can't help but feel a rush of power and excitement as he watches. He's made you want him, and there's no turning back now.

He moves faster, his fingers picking up speed and intensity again. Another moan, louder than the first leaves your mouth and you tuck your face into his neck. You muffle the sounds you’re making by kissing and licking at his skin, causing him to shudder audibly in your ear. He tastes like fresh water and soap, the scent of his body wash filling your nose and making your mind dizzy.

“Goddamn, the night you straddled me.” He continues, his voice dripping with desire. “Kevva be damned, I almost just took you right then and there.” He lets out a breathless, incredulous laugh at that. “Almost ripped your suit off right in that tower, almost bent you over the railin’. A-Almost made you mine right in the middle of camp.” Something halfway between a cry and a groan leaves your mouth and you squeeze his fingers, making him curse under his breath again. He feels the tension in your body building with each passing second, and his eyes darken with determination now.

You turn your face towards him as if to kiss him, but he pulls back at the last possible second, instead kissing the dip under your ear to make up for it.

“Not yet.” His voice is a low growl in your ear.

“Wh-Why?” You ask, your voice needy and breathless as you try to hold yourself back from screaming.

“Because I know this doesn't mean a damned thing.” His voice is almost angry as he pumps his fingers faster, and harder. He curls his fingers deep. You bite your lip hard as a muffled scream escapes you, your hips following his lead. “And I want that to matter. You understand, rook?”

You can’t even respond, you know if you do you’ll lose it so you nod against his shoulder furiously and he smiles. He gives you a moment to recover your composure, but he never stops his movement. You find it even in this haze and you release your lip from between your teeth and let yourself make noise again, trying to keep quiet but it quickly builds in volume and you muffle it with the skin of his shoulder. He can tell you're about to reach a breaking point. Your moans are constant now and your hips begin to falter in their rhythm, making him smile against your jaw. He knows how important this is and he keeps his pace perfectly, going silent for a full 30 seconds before,

"You deserve this, sweetheart," he growls. “Let yourself have it.”

It doesn’t take long at all and with a moan that morphs into a cry of his name, you break, your entire body tensing and relaxing as the pleasure washes over you from head to toe and back. Ezra grins as he watches, and when you cry out, his lips pull up into a genuine smile. He leans in closer, his smile filling his eyes as he looks at you.

"Yeah… c’mon just like that…. good. You did s'good," he murmurs softly into your hairline, his voice filled with excitement, power, and a tenderness you didn’t expect. His hand rests in your hair, gently caressing your neck as you come down from your peak, his voice hushed as he praises you, his fingers stopping their rhythm slowly as he draws out your high for all it’s worth.

His touch grounds you, giving you something to anchor yourself with as your ecstasy morphs into bliss. Another, softer sound escapes your mouth as you close your eyes to regulate your breathing.

Ezra watches, feeling relieved. Your face is flushed, your hair disheveled, but you look beautiful in his eyes. It's the first time he's seen you this way, this intimate, and he can't help but smile at the sight.

"Are you okay?" Ezra asks, his voice gentle and caring. The look in his eyes is one of concern mixed with affection, and it warms your heart. When you nod, another shaky exhale escaping your mouth, he lets you go. He smiles one more time. “Good… sweet dreams.” He plants one final, tender but fierce kiss against your forehead before he leaves without another word. You can’t even stop him or beg him to come back and honestly, you don’t even know if you want to. One thing you do notice though: your headache is gone.

You spend the rest of the night thinking about it and… replaying it all in your head. Your mind is confused, turned on, and conflicted all at once. The way he smelled, the way he tasted, the way he moved.... the way he made you move.

Suffice it to say you don’t get much sleep that night.

******

WOOH, damn. Ok, hopefully this being another extra long chapter (not intentional) makes up for me not posting all month hahahaha...... Anyway, I had to take some time away from this cuz you all know how I am with spice if you read my stuff I love it but HATE writing it. Also, good news: I got into grad school! I start in two weeks so I have been CRUNCHING it to get everything in order and really have not had the time to write. Anyway, that’s it, thanks a million, hope you all enjoyed, and see you in the next one!

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