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evans23 · 4 months ago

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Falling

Pairing : Hans Gruber x Reader OC

Summary : In the remanence of winter, Hans makes an unexpected encounter, which will bring a bit of peace in his chaotic life. Unfortunately, there is no happy ending for a man like him.

Tag(s)/Warning(s) : Smut. Angst. No happy ending here.

A/N : Enjoy dear reader 😁

Part II

Also read on AO3

It was a chilly afternoon in the middle of Spring in Kensington Park. It was your favorite park, even though you didn't really know why. After all, according to your parents, all the parks in London looked the same, but you disagreed with this assumption.

Also, you were slightly biased as you worked as a saleswoman in the little shop adjacent to the palace. You didn't like your job, but you loved the castle and its history. In fact, your dream was just in front of the park, in the form of a school called Royal College of Art. Unfortunately, after having got your A-level, you didn't succeed in getting a scholarship and your parents were unable to finance your study. Therefore, you started to work for a local McDonald's, and then, you found yourself lucky to get a job in the souvenir shop of the castle, thanks to a relative who ceaselessly reminded you what you owed him as the job was well-paid and not as tedious as your previous one. More than often, the customers, tourists for most of them, were far more agreeable than the ones who frequented the fast food, and you didn't stink of the greasy fries each night when you came back to your cramped apartment.

Also, the uniform was more comfortable and flattering than the horrendous one you had to wear and you could let your curly hair hang down your back without being reprimanded by your boss who was afraid of seeing one of your unruly hairs in the middle of a bag of fries. On the other hand, what should have been temporary had become permanent and while all you're friends were breezing through their plan life, you struggled to keep your own life on track.

That day, you had finished your shift in the early afternoon and as you weren't ready to face the loneliness of your life, all alone in your small apartment with a too expensive rent for so few rooms, you had decided, despite the coldness, to sit on a bench in the Walk of Flower to read one of your favorite book: "Notre Dame de Paris" from Victor Hugo.

You didn't notice the stranger who sat on the bench next to yours. You were too engrossed in your book for that and anyway, the park was well frequented by many people, locals, residents, or tourists for you to really notice them.

However, there weren't too many tourists at this time of the year. It was still too cold and rainy. It will change in less than one month. The park, the street, and the castle would be crowded for six months or more until the winter settled anew, a welcomed calmness around the venue but also in the busyness of your work.

During the summer, you didn't have any time for your hobbies as it was busy as it get at each hour of each day. You often worked more than eight hours a day as you were always willing to help your overworked colleagues either in the shop, the little coffee, or at the reception, diligently searching the bags with your little flashlight, looking for anything suspicious or sharp.

“Love is like a tree: it grows by itself, roots itself deeply in our being, and continues to flourish over a heart in ruin,” said the stranger in a thunderous voice and with a perfect French if it hadn’t been for his slight accent.

Startled, you looked up at him. He was tall, his broad shoulders and his black hair adding something quite intimidating to his natural charisma. He also had a hooked nose which was nothing short of engrossing.

"I apologize," he said, now speaking in English, "it wasn't my intention to frighten you..."

"[Y/N]," you said, your voice shaking a little bit.

He chuckled at that. He knew what effect he had on women.

“Nice to meet you, [Y/N]. I am Hans.”

He didn't know why he had given you his real name. Not that he was hiding in London. Actually, he owned a humongous and beautiful property only 30 minutes by car from the park. It was a secure place where he came after a rough mission or when he needed to vanish into thin air for his own sake.

“You're not from here,” you said, having recognized a foreign accent.

“Indeed,” said Hans who got up.

You looked at him from your bench. He was more intimidating up in front of you than before.

“May I?” he asked, gesturing towards the bench where you were comfortably settled.

“Of course,” you answered, moving your bag to make room for him.

“So, you read in French,” he said as a matter of fact.

“I don’t understand everything,” you admitted.

"I believe so, Victor Hugo is a convoluted author, even for a native speaker."

“And where are you from?” you insisted, wanting to know where this delicious accent came from.

He chuckled at your persistence, yet he told you he was from Germany. Hans was able to imitate the British accent perfectly, but he hadn't felt the need to deceive you. You looked quite innocent, and you were. Anyway, how could you have guessed you were talking with a thief, a mobster, a criminal ?

He talked with you the whole afternoon. You understood very quickly that he was an educated man, with a lot of culture and a perspicacity you could envy him for.

As you parted, he kissed the back of your hand like a true gentleman, the one in your romantic books. You didn't know what had got into you to confide so many private things about yourself to a stranger, but talking to him was easy, and there was so much on your heart that you needed to confide. Maybe because you knew he was just a stranger that you would never see again had made things easier. You felt lighter but also disappointed to know that you would never see him again.

But Hans wasn't indifferent to you either. Hans was intrigued by you. He had already noticed you a few days before when you were walking in the streets to reach the metro station. You were wearing your work uniform, that's how he knew that to find you, he had to go for a walk around Kensington Park.

Hans didn't really know what had caught his attention about you. Your face was certainly pleasant to look at but it didn't stand out from the crowd, your stiff gait spoke volumes about the pressure you felt in your life and you had a disillusioned pout that probably didn't make many people want to get to know you.

However, there was something about you that had intrigued him. Enough to want to meet you at least once. He hadn't expected to see you sitting all alone in the Walk of Flowers. Walkers rarely sat for too long, the cold quickly numbing their hands and feet. And yet, there you were, reading your book, a book that Hans had read many times in its original version too.

He had been surprised at how easy it was to talk to you. You were intelligent, not as much as he was, but not everyone could come up with escape plans and high-flying heists, you had wit and a dry sense of humor that he appreciated. You also had that disillusioned look of those who had already seen too much to still be truly surprised by existence. Hans knew this expression well for having experienced it himself.

It was a long time ago when he was a teenager dragged from home to home, separated from his brother, missing a father who died when he was only eight years old, and a loving mother. Their mother to Simon and him was an alcoholic who beat them for yes or no. It was often his big brother who suffered their mother's anger because he was not afraid to defy her or to come between her and his little brother. He remembered a day when his mother who had drunk more than reason and had just been dumped by her umpteenth boyfriend had destroyed the model airplane he was building for no good reason other than to make her son suffer as much as she suffered. She had raised her hand to hit him, but Simon had stepped between him and her, taking the slap instead of Hans.

Hans shook his head as if to make all those bad memories go away. It was a long time ago. When he was just a weak little boy. It was before the army that he had met an important man who was a member of German high society. Thanks to him, after his military service, he had been able to join the university where he had received a solid education in history, foreign languages, economics, and politics. Hans was intelligent and able to absorb thousands of pieces of information in no time. His eidetic memory was a real gift that had allowed him to join the Volksfrei where he had definitely hardened himself. So hardened that his ruthless behavior had earned him being kicked out of the organization.

He had worked as a mercenary for a while after that, but tired of having to answer to other people's orders, Hans had decided to become his own boss by carrying out his own terrorist activities with a group of trusted men in his pay. It had been a long time since the weak little boy had disappeared in favor of the man he was today.

And yet, your presence this afternoon had awakened something vulnerable in him. He wanted to see you again. He was going to see you again. He was going to make you his, whether you wanted it or not.

He thought about it, developing a plan to make you fall into his nets. He wanted to be subtle to give you the impression that you had had a choice. Little did he know that you were already partially won over to his cause. Indeed, the man with the imposing stature, the broad shoulders, and the nose of a Greek god had not left you indifferent.

He returned to Kensington Park two days later, waiting for your service to end. He watched you from afar to see you following the same path as last time to join the Walk of Flowers where you sat on the same bench as last time, another book in your hands.

"Did Victor Hugo get the better of your determination?" he asked, a teasing smile on his lips.

You jumped, which made him chuckle.

"Hans," you said, a hand on your chest, "you scared me."

"Sorry, that wasn't my intention."

He sat down next to you without asking your permission, not that you minded.

"So, Victor Hugo?"

"Finished last night."

Hans arched an eyebrow, surprised. You had finished one of the most difficult books in French literature in two days and after admitting that you didn't always understand the formal language of the book.

"Test me if you don't believe me," you had challenged him when you saw the doubt etched on his features.

He didn't need to be asked twice and had to admit that you had read the book, which make you be more surprising and impressive than he thought you were at first glance.

This little game of cat and mouse had lasted several months. Hans could afford it, his last heist, the robbery of a Russian bank, had earned him enough to live on for the next ten years. Of course, he wouldn't sit idly by for the next ten years. He wanted more. Much more. Millions to be able to disappear forever and live the great life he had always dreamed of. Except that now, he wanted you to be part of his dream.

However, how could he involve you in his life without putting you in danger ? And how could you never find out who he really was ?

Some of his men had a woman in their life. One of them was even married and had a child, but was it really a life to have to hide who you really are from the person who shared your bed ?

Of course, Hans had had many women in his arms, but never a woman he wanted to spend more than one night with.

Six months after your first meeting, he had invited you to his secluded house. A large mansion that could have contained your apartment, your parent's house, and your big sister's house all in one. Hans had cooked for you and charmed you a little more with his words that flowed like honey in your ears and his German accent that made you shiver constantly.

A year later, you were an official couple, much to Hans's delight, who for once in his life hadn't had to fight too hard to get what he really wanted. And God may be his witness, he wanted you, loved you and he would never let you go. You lived at his place and while he didn't hide the fact that he was a rich man, you didn't really know where the money came from.

Officially, he had introduced himself as a businessman. But you knew that something wasn't right in what he had told you. The designer clothes he lavished you with and the one he wore every day, the jewelry he showered you with at every opportunity, the luxury cars and the incessant business trips, something didn't add up to what he was telling you.

Yet, he was a passionate lover and even if you had already seen his bad temper surface when something displeased him, with you he was nothing but tenderness and patience. A trait that no one would have granted to Hans. He himself was amazed at how much he could be another man with you. You brought a calm to his life that he had ignored he had needed until now. You were the calm in his tumultuous life as a gangster.

You had tried to question him several times, but each time, he had turned you down, sometimes harshly and you had ended up understanding that what he did for a living was a subject not to be discussed. You were not totally stupid and even if you didn't know exactly what he did to earn all this money with which he flooded you, you assumed that he must be part of the mafia. Or something like that. Something that should have made you run away, but you were already too much in love with Hans, too captivated by his mysterious aura and the danger that surrounded him to be afraid of sharing your life with a mafioso.

The fact that with you, Hans allowed himself to be softer, and more vulnerable, only made him more endearing. Your parents didn't approve of the relationship between you, your mother having immediately had doubts about Hans' intentions. But neither he nor you gave any importance to what others might think. You wanted him more than you had ever wanted anything else in your life, more than you had wanted to study at a prestigious art school or become the next greatest painter in the United Kingdom. You were hopelessly in love with the mysterious German man who had captured your heart and soul.

Although Hans was less demonstrative in his feelings, he felt the same way about you. You were the calm, the peace, in his hectic life. He found solace in your simple presence. Many times he had told himself that he had to end this union, that he had to push you away, but each time he had tried to do so by being cold and distant with you, your confusion and incomprehension at his sudden coldness towards you had made his heart melting and he had always come back more in love and tender than before, doing his best to be forgiven for his harsh behavior towards you during the day with a crazy and passionate night of love.

Hans wasn't naive, he knew that if he wanted to build something serious with you, he would have to put an end to his activities and disappear with you. At some point, he would have to confess the truth to you even if he was well aware of your suspicions and how close you were to the truth.

It was on September that he had a brilliant idea. An idea that would earn him millions. Enough to ensure a comfortable life for both of you in Fiji or anywhere that would please you. He was going to attack the CEO of Nakatomi Tower. A high-flying theft worth more than $600 million if he and his men played their game well.

But it was not going to be easy and his sharp mind had to prepare the best of plans. He had already worked out dangerous, complicated, risky cases, but this one was the most important of his entire gangster career. When a man steals $600, he can just disappear, but when a man steals $600 million, he knew that the police and secret agencies of the whole world will be after him. Unless they thought he was dead. However, he was no longer alone now and he had to think of you, which made the whole organization of his plan more difficult than usual, even for a gifted person like him.

His brother had warned him that getting emotionally involved with you was dangerous for him, but he had not listened to him, sure of himself as usual. Except that for once, Simon was right. The love he had for you was worse than all the enemies he had faced so far.

"Another departure Hans ? You've already disappeared all of October," you said wearily.

It was the first week of December and he had just told you that he would have to be away until the end of December on business trip.

"Work is work. You're happy to have nice clothes, to parade around in beautiful jewelry, to wear designer perfume, and to live a life of luxury. Without me, you would never have been able to quit this job that made you unhappy and to treat yourself to these art classes that you wanted so much," he pointed out more harshly than he had intended.

But he was tired of your reproaches. It had been the same for a few months every time he had to leave. It was stronger than you. You wanted to know the truth, a truth that he refused to tell you and it hurt you. Yet, you loved him too much to have the courage to leave him.

"If you think I'm with you for the money, then you don't know me very well Hans. Keep your clothes and your jewelry. I never asked you for anything! If you did it, it's because you wanted to!"

"Exactly! The best for you is everything I want and nothing else. We've been together for two years, you're an intelligent woman [Y/N], and you know that this life that I allow you to lead doesn't come without sacrifice."

You didn't answer because somewhere, somewhat, you knew he was right and even though you were frustrated by his unspoken words, you loved enjoying the life of luxury he was lavishing you with.

You sighed, closing your eyes and rubbing your forehead, feeling a headache coming on. Hans came closer and took your hands in one of his while the other gently massaged your lower back.

"Mein leibe, I promise you that after that everything will change."

"How?"

"You'll see. In the meantime, don't give me the cold shoulder. I don't want to go to the United States knowing that mein pearl is mad at me. I won't be able to concentrate if I know that you're angry with me," he coaxed you.

"I'm not angry Hans, I'm just... worried and... I'd like you to be completely honest with me."

"Mein leibe..." Hans sighed, "everything will change, I promise, but no more questions for tonight, okay?"

You nodded, still a little frustrated by his silences that separated you more than they brought you closer. Sensing the distance that your disappointment was putting between you, Hans placed a series of kisses along the back of your neck.

"Bitte, mein leibe, bitte, don't be angry with me."

"Hans..."

"Bitte," he whispered in your ear.

You turned your head and he took the opportunity to capture your lips. Very quickly, your kiss turned into a fiery passion. He hoisted you easily and you instinctively hooked your arms around his hips. He led you to the bedroom where he gently laid you down on the bed.

"You can't always get away with a quickie, even if sex with you is better than a pizza from Rudy's," you said jokingly.

"Mein leibe, I'm sure that my cock inside your tight pussy is the best way to have you under my control," Hans whispered with a predatory smile.

You gasped and your breath got caught in your throat. Hans's smile widened even more and with an expert gesture, he removed your t-shirt. You weren't wearing a bra to his great pleasure and he immediately went in search of your chest to suck on one of your nipples. You moaned in pleasure, your hands running under his t-shirt to caress his firm chest.

"Tell me you want me," Hans whispered.

"Hans..." you moaned under his caresses.

"Say it!" he ordered while walking two of his fingers near your entrance, delighting in your pussy swollen with arousal and your wetness that wet his fingers even though they weren't penetrating you.

"I want you, Hans. I need you, I need you inside me," you said breathlessly.

It didn't take much for Hans to help you getting rid of your skirt and stockings. You unbuttoned his pants and he helped you take them off, while with a quick gesture of his hand, he got out of his t-shirt which joined the rest of your clothes on the floor.

He didn't bother with the foreplay, entering you directly. You were already so wet that he had no trouble sinking all the way into your tight pussy, moaning as he felt your walls tighten around his cock.

"Your pussy has been made for me, just for me," he whispered in your ear.

"I only exist for you," you replied, biting his earlobe.

He pushed himself deeper into you, the sound of skin meeting skin with each thrust echoing through the room, mingling with your panting breaths and Hans' deep voice whispering words of love to you in both German and English.

"[Y/N], my lovely [Y/N], if you knew what you're doing to me, you and your tight little pussy... HAAA... [Y/N]," he groaned, making you hornier still.

As you reached your climax, Hans pulled out suddenly, making you hiss at the feeling of his cock being lost in your cunt. With a deft gesture, he turned you around and, your stomach pressed against the bed, he pushed in as hard as he had pulled out of your little cunt, tugging gently on your hair while his other hand was on your throat. He thrust faster, again and again until he felt the two of you approaching your climax. He then turned you to the side with one leg between yours and the other above yours, one hand still on your throat, the other cupping your breasts as he continued to thrust into you at a frantic pace.

"Hans, please, don't stop... I'm gonna... I'm gonna..."

"Come meine leibe... Come, come for me," he whispered in your ear.

It didn't take him more than two thrusts for your orgasm to shake your entire body with pleasure. Feeling your tight walls contract against his cock, Hans was quick to come in turn with an animalistic growl.

He pulled out carefully and you immediately snuggled up against him, finding solace between his arms, basking in the afterglow of your encounter. You quickly fell asleep, exhausted by the passion shared with Hans who stayed awake almost all night watching you while caressing your nipples with his fingertips, taking pleasure in seeing them harden under his caresses.

The next day, you woke up alone with a note on Hans' pillow.

Ich leibe dich. Hans.

Three weeks later

You were in front of the TV watching the Nakatomi Tower attack, tears flooding your eyes when you recognized Hans. In the end, he was not a mafia boss but a gang leader, a gangster, a thief, a criminal. And despite this revelation, your love for him didn't weaken.

You couldn't help but scream when the roof of the tower exploded, leaving the building on fire, and when the journalists announced that all the hostages had gone and the terrorists were out of control by a hothead working for the police. Later, the man named John McClane told reporters that Hans had fallen to his death from the top of Nakatomi Tower.

You fell to the ground screaming before curling up into a ball, sobbing and screaming Hans' name until you fell asleep. The next day, a man came to your house. He introduced himself as Simon and claimed to be Hans' brother. You knew your lover had a brother but he had never told you anything more about him. However, something about this man inspired confidence in you. The same confidence you had had in Hans. He returned the next day with a man with a gaunt and severe face, a lawyer who had papers for you to sign. Hans, afraid of not getting out of this, had prepared everything to ensure your future without him. Considerate, he had left you a fortune that could have benefited you for your next three lives. Except you didn't want a single one of these lives if Hans wasn't by your side.

A year later

Wrapped in a thick coat, a woolen scarf eating your face, you stood in front of a headstone, in the middle of a small, poorly maintained cemetery, in the town with the unpronounceable name of Schkeuditz.

It had taken you a while to make up your mind and come say a last goodbye to him, but the closer the anniversary of his death had got, the more you needed to be close to him, even if he had left you a gift that would allow you to keep him by your side forever and ever.

There was only a first and a last name on the grave. Hans Gruber. No words in his memory, no flowers. Just an unfortunate headstone in the middle of a thousand others. A name among many others, a name that no one would remember in a few years. No one except you, until your own death relieved you of the pain of losing your great love. You would never be able to get over Hans' death, you would never be able to love as you had loved him and you knew that no man would ever be able to offer you what Hans had offered you. You didn't think about the money and the luxurious life you continued to lead thanks to his thoughtfulness, but about his charismatic presence, the strength he gave you with just a look and the unyielding love you shared. The intimate moments that had made you closer than ever and how, even when you had tragically learned who he really was, you had loved him even more.

"[Y/N]," a baritone voice said.

You turned to acknowledge Simon's presence.

"You shouldn't come here."

"It's been a year today. A year since he... Nakatomi Tower... A year," you said, crying.

"I know. But coming here to mope won't bring him back."

"I know," you said through a sob.

"You're not supposed to be associated with him. Ever. Not now that a part of him is alive."

"No one knows he's his," you pointed out right away.

"And no one must ever know. Go home, [Y/N], grieve as much as you need, then start a new life, forget what you went through with Hans, pretend he never existed, and never come back here," Simon said coldly.

You knew Simon was saying that to protect you and the precious passenger waiting for you in the back seat of the car you'd rented to drive here.

"Go get to him before he wakes up and sees you're not here. I don't want my nephew crying. It's Christmas, and on Christmas, he should be the happiest little boy in the world."

You nodded and walked away, but not before kissing the tips of your fingers that you then placed on Hans' grave.

You got into the car and turned to the back seat, smiling fondly, though your smile didn't reach your eyes.

"I promise to be strong for both of us," you whispered so as not to wake the child who was fast asleep in his car seat.

Your heart was broken by the death of the man you had loved more than life itself, but as a testament to your love, he had left you with a good reason to live and fight. An eternal love that would live forever in the heart of your son. His son. Your son.

#alan rickman x reader #alan rickman #hans gruber x reader #hans gruber x oc #die hard #evans23

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sunandsstars · 2 years ago

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HIS FORTRESS

Jake x Neytiri x Na’vi!Reader

Summary: When finding out the expansion of his family Jake became ecstatic, his favourite girls were bearing his children. But Neytiri found his excitement annoying, pregnant woman right? Warnings: Pregnancy, Mentions of hunting/dead animals Word count: 2.3k

Happiness is simple.

Jake followed the same routine every day since the war, it was always wake up, give his mates kisses on the cheeks then getting ready to start the day as clan leader. He always started with learning from Mo’at about being Olo’eyktan and the spirit of Eywa, even though he has been Omaticaya for a few months there is still much to learn. Then he goes hunting with the other warriors in the forest, after catching prey it was eat then spend time with his girls.

While it wasn’t unheard of for a tri-relationship in Na’vi culture, it was extremely rare. Mo’at says they must be blessed by their great mother to continue with the ritual, and bless them Eywa did.

Neytiri was the first one to find and welcome him to the clan, she taught him the ways of the people and bonded with him under the tree of voices. Jake thought that one mate was it, they are bonded for life and needed no other. But along came ___, she was the same age as Neytiri at the time and a good friend to her.

They both went to Grace Augustine’s school when they were children, they played together and was raised together as friends. But Neytiri always stated she felt something different when around her, something she always felt around Jake. Never with Tsu’tey and never with any other men or women in the clan.

___ was sweet, she was a skilled hunter and a warrior, already passing her Uniltaron when she was of age to. Jake saw why Neytiri liked her, and decided to get to know her himself. As time did pass by over the weeks he fell more and more in love, with both woman. Neytiri, Jake and ___ bonded under the tree of souls. A union that could not be forgotten.

“Ma Jake?” a tired voice broke out from the hammock, “what are you doing up so early?” ___ sat up and rubbed her eyes, yawning and glancing at how the sun just started revealing itself over the planet they orbited.

“I was just thinking, yawnetu” he reached over and grabbed the back of her head, pulling her flush to his chest and kissing her hair. “Besides, our wife wants us up to hunt. Remember? she has been craving a lot of strange things lately…” he glanced to where Neytiri usually slept beside her and found the space already empty, assuming the woman was down in the forest already.

“You can go without me. I am too tired” ___ snuggled deeper into her mates side, breathing in his scent. Jake however, looked at her with raised brows, she never passed the opportunity to hunt with her partners. ‘Maybe she really is just tired’ he didn’t want to worry himself with anything too deep and slowly moved her arm to get out of bed. His mate scooted to where he slept and snuggled into the warm spot, tail curling around her body.

Jake chuckled and put on his cumberband, grabbing his knives and making sure they’re sharp enough he strolled out their hut, climbing down the tree branches and landing to the ground. He sniffed and looked around, saying good morning to the already awake Na’vi and humans. Walking towards a part of the forest he saw a footprint and went to track it.

Jumping above roots and ducking under others the Olo’eyktan moved around skilfully. Dreads swinging from side to side, ‘man i should have put it up’ he groaned in annoyance. Usually Neytiri had a band on her and would put it up for him and he was thinking of asking her, but he’d have to find her first.

He stopped in a clearing where the footprints disappeared and found no dented grass or snapped twigs. His trail was lost. He stomped his foot like a child, Neytiri must’ve gone up but he couldn’t track her like that. A hand slapped the back of his head and he screeched in shock. Whipping around he came face to face his his other mate.

“Like a baby” she tsked in English, having seen him throw his mini tantrum. Jake’s cheeks flushed, he was a leader, a warrior and yet sometimes he acted like a child, he was silly and his head sometimes became airy, easily forgetting customs and rules he was taught. Norm called him a himbo, whatever that meant. “Come” snapping out of his thoughts he was dragged away from their spot and towards the river that was nearby, seeing two dead yerik with an arrow lodged in each neck “I need help with bringing these back to the clan”

‘Jeez how long has she been up’ he scratched his head and tilted it to the side, staring at the hexapedes in thought. He walked up to one and his mate the other, grabbing the animal and hauling it over his shoulder. Grunting at the weight of it he watched Neytiri tie up its legs and do the same, the two slowly walking back home. Jake pouting the whole way, he didn’t even get to shoot anything…

___ was up and about, the sun high in the sky and shining down on the Na’vi that resided by Hellsgate. She was helping with simple chores, deciding to take rest and not do any extraneous activities. Mo’at has let her know of joyous news and told her to take it slow today as the elder can see the exhaustion on her daughter in laws face.

Hearing yipping she turned to the sound, seeing her mates back from their hunt with two large yeriks on their backs. She dropped her basket of fruits and rushed towards them, some hunters already grabbing the animals and prepared them to skin. “‘Tiri” she hugged her mate, excited to finally have seen her this morning. Waking up without her was upsetting, she usually liked basking in the warmth of both of her mates and not just one.

“Yawntutsyìp” Neytiri responded back, wrapping her arms around her mate and kissing her unbraided hair. She would have to redo it for her. Jake watched in great love, and a little bit of jealousy. So he intervened and grabbed ___, wrapping his own arms around her. Neytiri glared at him.

“Hey now, where’s my greeting hmm?” he nuzzled his face against her hair and breathed in, the scent of Pandoran flowers hitting his nose. ___ giggled at the look Neytiri was giving him, she always found their little rivalry funny.

“My beloved, we greeted each other this morning. ‘Tiri and I have not until now” the woman in his arms gently pushed him away and went back to their wife’s arms.

The Tsakarem smirked at their husband and he only stuck his tongue out in retaliation, “nì’eveng” she rolled her eyes.

“Why have you gone out so early?” ___ interrupted and moved away to glance up at the other woman, raising her eyes and giving her a knowing look. She knew the condition Neytiri was in, it was the same as her but a few days further along. But her wife did not know that she was the same, having been a recent discovery. Jake did not know at all about either of them. Men.

“I was craving yerik and decided to catch two for us and share with the clan” to be honest she just wanted the yerik for herself, selfishly. But her wife and clan came first, even if she knew the rest of the hunting party were out now gathering more meats. ___ thanked her and held her hand, turning to their husband who was still pouting at them.

“I want some too…”

“No”

___ laughed and dragged Neytiri away before she could evoke more chaos, leaving Jake who was called by his human friends. “I have some news my love” she started when they where further away, bringing Neytiri’s hand to her belly she grinned.

The Na’vi could only blink, staring at her hand in silence. Then she grinned and giggled “I cannot believe it”

“Believe it”

“We are both..at the same time..the great mother has truly blessed us” She pulled her wife closer and put their foreheads together and breathed in, closing her eyes “oel ngati kameie”

Jake could only watch from across the camp in confusion, ‘was their separation really that much of a big deal? Women’ his tail hit Norm behind him who was out of his avatar, deciding to go human for the morning. “Hey!” he complained and swatted the appendage that was still hitting him “what’s gotten you so worked up?”

“You see my mates over there? Why are they acting so lovey dovey”

Norm and Max turned to one another and deadpanned “Buddy..they’re mates. It’s normal”

“But i’m their mate and i’m not getting any attention” he pouted. Norm could only roll his eyes and slapped the aliens leg, Jake turned to look down at him in question.

“Lemme get into my avatar, then we can go have bro time. Max, link me up”

Jake and Norm strolled through the foliage, after breakfast the clan separated to do some more chores like cleaning, making clothes or patrolling the area. They’re not in hometree anymore, being out in the open could be dangerous for them.

“So, any idea of why my wives are basically disowning me?” Jake started, thinking back to breakfast when the two woman where basically all over each other, whispering loving words and piling food onto one another’s leaves.

“Women are complicated, maybe something major happened for them to act this way” Norm thought back through his Pandoran knowledge, trying to remember anything about Na’vi females and their biology.

“Maybe.. I mean Neytiri said she was craving yerik and woke up at fuck knows what time in the morning to catch them. And ___ was too tired to do anything physical at all” Jake huffed and sat down on a large rock, picking a fruit that was nearby and tearing into it, throwing one at Norm who barely caught it.

The avatar then realised the fuss, the cravings, the fatigue. It doesn’t take a genius to figure it out, but then again Jake has a below average IQ…

“I think you should talk to them” Norm finally concluded, he won’t tell his companion directly, it wasn’t his place to say, he bit into the fruit and watched Jake. The Olo’eyktan nodded and stood up, patting Norm on the shoulder and leading them back.

“I just hope they’re ok”

“By the sounds of it i’m sure they’re more than ok”

The two woman devised a plan together, they would tell Jake then announce it to the rest of the clan tonight. They could not wait any longer.

They were sat waiting in their pod, chatting and updating their song beads, one more to signify their new journey into motherhood. Jake rounded the corner and barged in, his feet slapping onto the ground heavily. “So you two gonna tell me what’s going on?” ‘smooth Jake smooth’ he mentally scolded himself, coming across as too harsh.

Neytiri just threw a piece of twine at him “mawey ma Jake”. ___ stood up abruptly and padded towards her husband ears wiggling and head spinning, she was nervous. Telling Neytiri was one thing, but telling Jake was another.

“Ma Jake..we have something to share with you” the man in question raised an eyebrow, finally he was gonna get some answers to their weird behaviour. ___ grabbed his hand and rested it upon her still flat tummy, pressing it into her a little so he could feel the tiniest bump in her skin.

Jake blinked.

He blinked again.

Then he grinned “No way” he pressed again into his mates stomach and laughed out in glee when he felt it more. ___ nodded and beckoned their other mate towards them, grabbing his other hand and holding it to his other wife’s tummy. If Jake’s grin could get any wider it had “No way” he voiced again in disbelief.

“Srane skxawng” Neytiri hit his head lightly, chuckling at his expression. He felt tears well up in his eyes, he had two kids on the way. His wives were both pregnant, at the same time. It was a miracle.

“Jake?” ___ saw the tears in his eyes and cupped his cheeks, her face contorting into worry “nga tam?”

“yawne, oe nì’ul to tam” He grabbed his girls and nuzzled them, kissing both of their heads, cheeks and lips. Crying out of happiness, he gives his thanks to their deity “irayo si Eywa”

Their clan held a great feast that night, their leader was starting his own family, two children on the way was a blessing and their Tsahìk made sure to say great prayers over the fire.

Jake was in bliss, his hands never left Neytiri’s or ___’s tummies. Not even to eat, the latter having to pop food into his mouth every so often to make sure he doesn’t starve. Neytiri could only slap her tail against his back at his silliness, but she cannot deny the happiness she felt in that moment for her mates.

“Oe tsìlpey fi’u ‘evenge” the love struck man tapped Neytiri’s belly with his hand, she merely spared him a glance and waved him off, disagreeing entirely.

“It will be boy. I can feel it”

___ finished her food and rested her head against her mate, the glow of the fire making her look ethereal “yes, he will be strong warrior. Like his father” Jake just sniffed in reply, feeling more tears come up. The woman on his other side hit him on the shoulder and called him a weakling.

But he couldn’t ask for anything more, this was his family. His fortress. He wasn’t gonna let anyone else take it away from him.

Norm sat on the opposite side of the fire, giving his bro a solid nod in approval. He knew it all along, never doubt the mind of a scientist.

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lucienarcheron · 1 year ago

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Instincts - I [ Elucien ]

Prompt: A lovely anon sent me this: "Could I please request a fic based on elain reading a really sad book where 1 of the characters dies and she's absolutely torn up over it and Lucien sees her sobbing but he doesn't know what to do cause he doesn't get being invested in fictional characters (plss the irony has me ded) like she does, so he just sits with her and follows his mate bond instinct." So I took the idea and ran with it lol. |

This takes place post-ACOSF. | Part II

Lucien had been rooted to his spot in front of her bedroom door for about ten minutes now.

Ten minutes of him listening to her sobbing — sobbing.

He had been invited to stay the night after visiting Feyre and baby Nyx. Exhausted and rather than make the trek back to Jurian and Vassa, Lucien stayed. He stayed knowing he was spending an evening with his mate avoiding him like the plague per usual. But it was alright. He tried not to hold it against her. He let her have her space.

When she excused herself after dinner, Lucien’s eyes followed her as she left the room but with a quiet sigh, he returned to his meal.

“You know she doesn’t actually dislike you, right?” Feyre said with a small wince.

“I know.” Lucien replied, schooling his expression not to show his continuous disappointment. It needn’t be anyone else’s problem but his. “I’m pretty sure if she did, I wouldn’t be able to set foot in this house.”

“Now, now Lucien. You are a friend. You’re always welcome.” Rhys said then laughed when Lucien flipped him off.

“As mates, you both know exactly how well I can feel her emotions.” he said, his eyes on his plate. “I know she’s still going through things. So am I. We’ll eventually work through it.”

He didn’t bother to glance at Rhys or Feyre as he also excused himself. What Lucien didn’t add was even though they were both working through it, consistently being around her without properly talking to her left him in a constant state of agony.

But he’d dealt with worse. It would be fine. He’d had his eye carved out. He could handle Elain not wanting to talk to him until she was ready.

It was as Lucien started settling in for the evening that he sensed her distress. He was in his own rooms, upstairs, and on the other side of the house when a surge of emotion washed over him. The book in his hand immediately closed and he was on his feet and out the door before Lucien could stop himself.

The bond had yanked him here, rooting him in front of her room staring and wondering what in the devil was causing her to be this upset.

His face suddenly fell. Was it him being here? She had never reacted this badly to him. If this was how she really felt, he would free her from the bond right here, right now. He would never want to be with someone who fucken sobbed at the idea of being with him. He deserved better than that. So did she.

He’d reject the bond and his own psychological well-being be damned if it freed them both from the misery he was apparently causing her.

But then —

“I’m going to kill her.”

And Lucien straightened at the venomous tone and words very clearly not about him.

Her door suddenly flew open and a rage like he’d never seen before was found on Elain’s tear-stricken face.

“I’m going to kill her.” she repeated and it was as though she hadn’t seen Lucien at all until he cleared his throat.

“I’m unsure who it is you’re referring to, but I would probably rethink your murder plan.” he said gently. “It won’t do much for your soul.”

Finally seeming to realize who stood before her, Elain immediately straightened with a sniffle and wiped at her tears hastily. He watched her in slight amusement as she wrapped her robe further around herself and with a final sniff, looked at him with a stoic expression.

“What are you doing here?”

Lucien pursed his lips at the clipped tone. “I sensed your extreme distress and wanted to make sure you were alright.” he replied dryly. “Seeing as you’re planning a murder, I guess you’re fine.”

Elain scoffed. “Fine. Of course, I’m fine.” she choked out and Lucien raised a brow. “When am I ever not fine?”

Lucien blinked. Interesting. This development was interesting. She was actually talking to him in full sentences. And being snarky.

He gave her a once-over. “We both know you’re not fine. Which is why you avoid me so much because I know the depth of that.”

Elain’s face flushed and her lips went into a thin line. “There’s no need to bring that up.”

“Yes, of course.” he replied immediately, a humorless chuckle escaping him. “Because that would mean you’d have to talk to me, and Cauldron forbid that happen.”

Elain blinked at him, surprise flashing across her face as her flush deepened. Lucien’s own face heated at what he’d said but shaking his head and taking a deep breath, he forced down his contempt. He had been two minutes away from rejecting the bond for her. He had to leave her before he said something else that was stupid.

Turning away from her slightly, he waved a hand. “Since you’re alright, I’ll take my leave then.” he said quietly. “Apologies for disturbing you.”

Lucien slowly walked away, clenching and unclenching his fists to calm his heart. He had almost reached the end of the hall when her voice called out to him.

“Do you read?”

He froze then turned to her slightly.

She was still standing in her doorway, a book now clenched tightly in her hands and looking at him like — Lucien swallowed. He wouldn’t read into her expression.

Turning, he slowly made his way back to her, his hands in his pockets and when he was one bedroom door away, he stopped to keep a healthy distance between them.

“Yes, I do. I enjoy reading.” he answered. “Do you?”

Elain looked down at the book in her hands and frowned, her lips trembling slightly. “Nesta was always the reader. I enjoyed reading here and there but…” she began and looked up at him. “Now that I seem to have forever to do things, I wanted to start reading more.”

The corner of his mouth ticked up. “Based on the emotional breakdown you were having, I would wager you didn’t enjoy that particular read.”

Elain watched him quietly and Lucien tried not to read into the whirlwind of emotions seeming to charge out of her, especially when her lips trembled again, and her eyes started watering.

“He dies!” she blurted in a wheeze. “Six books! I've been reading this series for six books and after everything they’ve been through! Everything that has happened! They’re barely happy for two chapters and then he dies!”

Lucien blinked as she started crying. Or rather, tried not to cry as she sniffled and then sobbed.

“Oh.” he said stupidly and as understanding washed over him, his lips twitched.

“What’s the point? What’s the point if they’re not happily together in the end?!” she continued, her rant clearly not over as she angrily wiped away tears still streaming. “I’ve been rooting for them for six books! His death has no meaning!”

“Was it an important character?” he asked and the fury in her eyes almost made him take a step back.

“He was one of the main characters and the main love interest!” she growled. “I have been waiting for them to have their happily ever after for six books!”

He prayed to whatever gods were listening that he didn’t laugh.

“I see.” was all he could manage. “He was a favorite character of yours then?”

“He was the best.” she said with a small whine and quickly sniffled, glaring down at the book in question. “He was kind and loyal and he loved her so much! He was her perfect match.”

Lucien paused and the way she had said the words ‘perfect match’ erased his urge to laugh. Elain had clearly been committed to this fictional relationship. Should he...pat her on the back? It wasn’t like he could give her a hug. How does one mourn the loss of a fictional character?

“Well.” he finally said carefully. “The death was definitely done for shock value then.”

“Which is the stupidest reason to kill a character!” she snarled, and Lucien blinked rapidly, trying desperately not to let his amusement show.

“I agree but I mostly read nonfiction, so this is an uncharted territory of investment for me.”

“Nonfiction?” Elain said with a blink then sniffled. “That seems so boring.”

Lucien’s ears heated. “Nonfiction books are the easiest way to educate yourself on things. There’s nothing boring about that.” he said defensively. “Funny enough, some would say gardening is boring and you’ve invested all your time in that.”

She narrowed her eyes at him, the look not really having the desired effect with the tear streaks on her face. “Don’t you go there.”

He held up his hands in mock surrender. “Those gardening books you have count as nonfiction, you know.” he said with a snort and she squinted at him.

“Fair point, I guess.” she mumbled, and he watched as she glared at the book clenched tightly in her hands again. A moment of tense silence passed then Elain added, “I hate this thing. If I find the author, I will kill them.”

“I’d offer to burn it for you, but it seems the emotional damage has already been done.” he said, a small smile finding its way to his face as Elain continued to glare at the book. “May I ask, who suggested this series to you?”

And Elain glanced up, tear-stricken face furious. “Nesta.”

“Ah. So that’s who you planned to murder then?”

“Yes.”

And Lucien really couldn’t stop his smile from widening in amusement. “Might I also ask, how do you plan to do that?” he asked and her gaze snapped to his. “I’m only asking so when they question me, I have an alibi ready.”

Elain sniffled, wiping at her face but a ghost of a smile tugged on her own lips. “People underestimate gardening tools, but they hurt if you know where to strike.”

Lucien’s brow went up and then a quiet laugh slipped from his lips. “Unexpected answer but seemingly very you.”

Elain looked down at the book in her hand again. “And how do you know what I am or not?” she asked quietly.

“I’m very observant.”

A heartbeat of silence passed between them before Elain finally said, “Too observant.”

Lucien only shrugged, his heart going at an erratic rhythm. Their conversation had gone on longer than he had anticipated, and he didn’t want to do anything to risk spooking her. It was a strange dance between them. He wasn’t sure what tone it would take next.

But Elain surprised him once more. She frowned then without warning, stepped out of her doorway and whirled the book with all her might down the hall. It landed with a soft thud on the other side of the house.

Lucien blinked, eyeing how much closer she stood to him now.

“I’ll grab it tomorrow. I can’t stand it being in my room.” she mumbled, crossing her arms. “I’m going to beat Nesta over the head with it in the morning.”

Lucien’s lip twitched again. “I would support that plan as it would be a better one than murdering your own sister.”

Elain snorted. “After letting me get invested for six books only to have the main love interest die in the end?” she said, her eyes flashing. “She’s lucky I won’t.”

Lucien gave her a teasing smile. “As terrible as it is to say this, I’d pay good money to see you whack Nesta with a book.”

“I know she’s faster and stronger than me, but I’ll at least get one hit in.” she said, determination in her eyes. “The element of surprise will help.”

“I’ll cheer you on.” he said with a chuckle. “But also have Madja on call just in case.”

Elain looked at him curiously, a small smile on her face. “That doesn’t sound incredibly supportive.”

“If you’d like the fight to be fair, you’d probably need to train just a little.”

“I don’t want to be a fighter.” she snapped immediately, and Lucien’s brows shot up.

“I know.” he said simply. “Basic self-defense doesn’t require you to become a warrior.”

She glanced at him and her lips went into a thin line. “We’ve barely spoken in two years. How could you know that I don’t want to be a fighter when both of my sisters are? Why would I be different?”

“Because you are not your sisters. And again, I’m observant.” he replied curtly, and the familiar contempt flared up. “The only reason we haven’t spoken much in two years is because you don’t want to. I’ve respected that decision.”

The fight in her vanished at his response and instead, Elain shot him a slightly annoyed look. She crossed her arms again and the two stood there, in awkward silence. After a moment, she spoke.

“So what, you’d be willing to teach me basic self-defense?” she asked and Lucien quirked a brow.

“If that’s what you want, I’d be happy to do that.” he replied, crossing his own arms.

Elain assessed him and Lucien allowed it. It had been a long time since she’d stood before him and actually looked him in the eye.

But Elain ended up shaking her head and Lucien watched her expression shut down. “They’d just laugh at me if I suggested it.”

Lucien’s expression softened. “No one will laugh at you. I’m sure they’d love for you to learn to defend yourself.”

But Elain shook her head again and sighed. “I can’t win. I’m mocked for wanting a quiet life and then shut down if I try to take chances.” she said quietly.

Lucien’s hands dropped to his sides and his fists clenched. “I will tell you this once so please listen,” he began, and Elain’s brows furrowed. “You don’t need anyone’s permission to make changes to your life. You get to decide that and then just do it.”

Elain glanced at him. “It doesn’t feel like it.”

“Well, what do you want, Elain?” he asked and watched as her eyelids fluttered shut for a moment when her name slipped from his lips. His fists clenched again at his sides.

“What do I want?” she repeated, eyes still closed.

“Other than your favorite fictional character to have survived the series?” he said and smiled softly as a small smile emerged on her face.

“I want —” she began, eyes still closed, expression focused. “I want so many things.”

“Like what?” he asked softly, taking the time to memorize every inch of her face.

“I want to train a little. I want to travel. I want — I want to get to know you without everyone’s involvement.” she said quickly. “I want my choices to matter in everything.”

His heart started racing and when Elain opened her eyes, the flush in her cheeks matched Lucien’s, who could only stare at her with a barely managed intensity.

It took Lucien a few moments to find his voice again. “I’m not going to coddle you.” he said firmly. “If there is something you want to do, you can do it. You don't need my support to do anything but you will have it.”

Elain took a breath, her eyes scanning his face. “Good.”

“Great.” he agreed, and he couldn’t stop himself from asking, “Without everyone’s involvement huh?”

Elain flushed. “You’re a mystery to me and everyone has opinions. I’d like to form my own.” she said then quickly added. “With zero expectations between us. Whatever happens will happen.”

Lucien nodded slowly. “Whatever happens will happen.” he repeated then gave her a small smile. “As soon as you’re done mourning your loss, we can begin. My condolences by the way.”

With an eye roll, Elain huffed a small laugh. “Oh, shut up.”

And Lucien smirked. “You’ll have to talk to me much more when we train, you are aware of that, yes?”

“Push your luck with your teasing, I dare you.”

Lucien’s eyes gleamed at the challenge. “Don’t tempt me, I barely started.”

Elain fought back a smile then looked away from him with a sigh, curling a hair behind her ear, “For training,” she started, licking her lips. “Will...I need pants? Because I don’t have those.”

And every thought seemed to slip out of Lucien’s mind at the statement. The sheer innocence in it. The self-consciousness. She had no idea Lucien was barely holding on to his sanity as is.

He swallowed. “I’m sure Feyre can help you buy some training pants.”

“No!” she said immediately then flushed at his expression. “I don’t want anyone asking questions.”

Lucien chuckled. “Buying pants is a very normal thing, Elain. You shouldn’t be this worried.”

She bit her lip and Lucien had to look anywhere else until she very quietly asked, “Will you go with me then?”

He blinked at her, then swallowed. “To — to buy pants?”

“You said we haven’t talked because I didn’t want to. I wasn’t ready.” she said and looked him in the eye. “I want to change that. Shopping allows some of the best conversations.”

He tilted his head, taking in the question and the challenge in her eyes. With a small smile, Lucien nodded. “Shopping it is.”

“Good. We can go tomorrow.”

“So demanding.”

“I’m making decisions.” she said with a firm nod, a small smile gracing her face.

“I can work with that.”

They watched each other for a few moments in silence before Elain finally looked away shyly again, making her way back to her bedroom door. “I’ll see you tomorrow then?”

“See you tomorrow.” he confirmed with a nod. “I’ll even grab the book that shall not be named and hang on to it for safekeeping for you.”

Elain laughed softly. “Thank you.” she said then added quietly, “And thank you for checking on me. Even when you didn’t have to.”

He waved her off with a good-natured smile. “I was only following my instincts. It brought me to the right place.”

It brought me to you, is what he wanted to say but held back. They balanced a delicate line and Lucien didn’t want to burden her. But the small smile on Elain’s face as she waved goodnight and gently closed her bedroom door gave him the impression she heard it anyway.

Feeling lighter than he had in quite some time, Lucien made his way back to his room, stopping only to pick up the now-cursed book and taking it back with him. Closing his bedroom door behind him and leaning against it, Lucien realized then, he only had a few hours to mentally prepare himself to see Elain in pants for the first time.

Gods above, he was barely going to survive it.

#elucien #elucien fanfics #lucien vanserra #elain archeron #acotar fanfiction #I present to you: two idiots who don't know how to emotion around each other #Cue Lucien finally going back to Jurian and Vassa and just melting onto the couch #Lucien hoarsely: she wore pants for the first time #Jurian and Vassa: ?????#Lucien in a panic: PANTS. SHE TRIED ON SO MANY #Jurian just laughing himself to death.#Vassa trying to get him to tell what he said so can assess his flirting #fic: instincts #gfics

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esshetic · 7 months ago

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June Bloom

As I pen this down from my cozy hotel room, perched with a mesmerizing view of the vast Atlantic Ocean, in the heart of Agadir, Morocco, I am consumed by the undeniable energy that this June's astrological transits bring with them.

The energy and intuitive guidance that this month's celestial movements bring are far removed from the traditional psychic or paranoia-ridden predictions that old patterns might suggest. Instead, they are firmly rooted in the present, in the reality that is here and now. I encourage you to take a step back at the beginning of this week, take stock of your situation, and ask yourself some important questions - is there something missing in your life? Or is it all just a perception and there is nothing actually missing? Are you content and happy with the way things are? If not, why? If yes, can you come to terms with this status quo and permit it to change, if need be?

Welcome to June - a month that is teeming with activities, much to the delight of Gemini. This month, you might feel overwhelmed, as if you're juggling an unimaginable number of things all at once. Yes, it does seem like it’s nonstop for the majority of the Gemini season and you wouldn't be wrong in feeling so. The calm only descends after the summer solstice, when the sun transitions into Cancer. The Cancer season, by the way, carries with it a unique charm, but for now, let's stay centered on navigating the rest of the Gemini season in June.

The energy during this time is too dynamic and volatile to be confined to a single viewpoint or approach. I perceive the Gemini season as a fast-flowing stream that bubbles and rushes, making it nearly impossible to grasp what's happening in its entirety. There are countless narratives, perspectives, and situations unfolding simultaneously, making it arduous to pinpoint and capture them. It's more about being malleable and adaptable to what is, rather than trying to predict, and even more critically, control the future.

Embrace the spirit of the chameleon.

Remember that opinions are not set in stone and are bound to change. Gemini, often deemed wishy-washy, thrives in the gray area, effortlessly seeing both sides of the coin and camouflaging into one side depending on the situation at hand. It is about understanding every point of view in any given situation. Do not let the constant flux and changing faces drive you to the brink of madness.

The new moon in Gemini on the 6th of June brings with it a certain madness. Why does the energy building up to this new moon feel like a full moon culmination?

The humble dandelion is a symbol of hope. I have a tradition of selecting a photo that resonates with the season for me, and this time, I chose my tranquil view and an image of a dandelion, which rings true as a beacon of hope. Despite all the chaos and madness that currently engulfs the world, the dandelion stands as a reminder that there is always hope for a brighter, better future.

For the Sings

Gemini, June will be a significant time for you where your voice will matter, and your presence will not be overlooked. You will not only be seen but also heard.

Cancer, for you, June will be a month where worries are put aside, providing you with a chance to relax and enjoy the summer's warmth.

Leo, your June will be filled with strategic planning and preparation. This is a perfect time for you to get ready for future endeavors.

Virgo, June might be a bit of a worry for you, as you might find yourself dissatisfied with the outcomes. However, remember that not all results are final.

Libra, June will feel like a victory parade for you. The stress you've been carrying will lift off your shoulders, leaving you feeling lighter and happier.

Scorpio, brace yourself, as June might be a bit hectic for you. It might feel like you're fighting for your life, but remember that challenging times often bring the best out in people.

Sagittarius, for you, June will be a time to reflect and relax, offering a perfect balance between introspection and leisure.

Capricorn, June will open new doors for you, providing opportunities for you to move forward with big ideas and strategies. Be open to new ventures.

Aquarius, your June will be a mix of emotions - sometimes sad, sometimes mad, sometimes bad, but overall, you will find reasons to be glad.

Pisces, June might be a bit of a juggle for you, especially when it comes to managing your love life. Remember, you are in demand and loved by many.

Aries, June might seem hard and filled with grief spirals for you, but remember, when you hit rock bottom, the only way is up.

Taurus, June will feel like a victory parade for you, with rewards and recognition coming your way.

Remember, this is just a quick intuitive guidance. If it does not fully resonate with you, that's completely okay!

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igotanidea · 2 years ago

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Worst thing: Dick Grayson x f!reader

Inspired by the song: Worst Thing by NOTD & Kenzie

Warning: inuendo, some action but nothing too explicit, in this case Dick is a bit out of character (just for the sake of it)

Life was too much lately. We were constantly on a mission or a patrol or busy with work or investigating or doing whatever shit our hero mentors had going on. I needed a break and I guess so did Dick. Passing by each other was no good for our relationship, any relationship actually since it had destroyed a couple of mine in the past. Or at least I was telling myself that the reason was behind my double life. The truth however was slightly different. It just every time someone tried to get close to me, hold me or kiss me or touch me, I saw his face in front of my eyes. God damn, Dick Grayson!

I wish we never met sometimes

'Till I'm with another ex, and I

Forget that you're the best sometimes

He was a wolf, no one could deny it. The list of his ex-girlfriends was miles long and yet he could never kept any of them for long. I always wondered why, to be honest. It’s not like he didn’t want a real relationship. I saw it in his eyes when he was looking at me. I saw it in his action we were fighting alongside each other or even when we were spending nights talking about life or just sitting in silence. He wanted someone to care for and love and someone who will reciprocate to him with the same amount of love. He shouldn’t have to carry all the burden on his shoulder, alone and I was trying my best to show him that he had people around. That he had me around. As a friend, of course. I never got the guts to tell him the truth of how I really felt.

Wonder if I'm in your head 'cause I hate this

And I hate that, you're making me say this

Cause I ain't one to say this but

Our friendship consisted of understatements and restraints. Judging from the time perspective I believe we were pushing each other apart because we were scared of letting someone in and then losing that person or seeing them hurt. And because we were afraid of showing any sign of vulnerability. We trusted each other but confessing true feelings was a one-way ticket way. It was easier to be just teammates. Bruce used to insist that we were training together but that was just it. Nothing more.

We claim we're better off apart

Pretend that we don't get along

At least up to some point.

Like I mentioned, we were good working together, so when another mission and investigation in another city came up it was natural choice that the team voted for the detective and an CSI agent to lead it.

“Ready to go, Grayson?” I asked grabbing my bag, throwing it over my shoulder and walking towards the elevator. Why was he standing like this, eyes open, feet rooted to the ground? “Dick?” I waved my hand in front of his face and he blinked rapidly, out of his Robin instincts grabbing my wrist “Are you sure you are capable of joining me? You seem a bit cuckoo….”

“Joining you? Oh, Y/N. You know well enough I am the leader here.” He smirked and finally moved to follow me out. “You are just a support, not the other way round.”

“Mhm, sure.” I muttered “We’ll see how that goes when we will have to actually talk to people, not beat the shit out of them”

“I can talk to people.”

“Sure, you can Dickie, sure you can” I rolled my eyes smiling lightly at the reminder of his last talk. “But only if we have to deal with tall, blonde policewoman or female agent.”

“You are a female agent….” He pointed out

“Thanks for noticing, genius.” I grinned “I feel flattered that those jeans does not make me look like a butch. Now….” When we got out of the Titans tower I instinctively moved towards the driver side of the car but he yanked me back onto the pavement, causing a little crash between his chest and mine “Ouch….” I whined

“First of all, you have almost walked right in front of a motorcycle so you’re welcome. Second, you are not going to drive my car”

“ Oh, come on Don’t go all man-like on me. What is it with guys and their cars?”

“I’m driving. That’s not up for discussion.”

“all right then. But I’m in charge of the playlist?”

“This is not a field trip Y/N. We’re on a mission. We should discuss what and how we are going to do. Music will be a distraction. Now, get in.“

“Just this once, Grayson. Let’s settle on the fact that work is important, I get it” I moved inside the car and relaxed into the comfortable seat, stretching my legs out “but I also know you are going to go full instinct, so why the talk, hm?”

He didn’t; respond, so in the end we ended up not talking and not listening to any music, just driving in complete silence. Everything went surprisingly smoothly and within a couple of hours we were done with our little intel ready to go back.

Well, the way back was more of a bumpy ride.

When we were driving through the forest, the car suddenly died on the roadside. With one sharp tug and a bit of coughing coming from the engine we were estranged far from home.

But would it be the worst thing

If your car wouldn't start up

“Is your precious porche going to the dogs?” I asked unmoved by what was going on “could you try to relight the engine?”

“I am. It’s not working.”

“Ok, then. I guess you probably forgot to fuel up, too busy with ordering me around as usual.”

“Y/N…..”

“Should we call the team to come and rescue us? It’s getting late and dark.” I stretched my back a bit, pointing towards the horizon where the sun was setting behind the trees. “however the view is breathtaking” I smiled a bit, admiring the landscape. I was always a forest creature.

“Y/N.” Dick turned his gaze towards me and as I look into his eyes it was like an electric shock. All I saw in his eyes was just a bit too much and I felt my cheeks flush, desperately trying to take control of the situation.

“Did you plan this?” I asked, perplexed as he leaned towards me over the gearbox, one of his hands finding mine, the other cupping my cheek and I moved towards his touch, too consumed by his closeness to be embarrassed.

“Maybe.”

“So what are you going to do now, Robin? Murder me? Bury me in the ground so no one could find me and you could blame my poor skills for the mission failure? Or….””

“Or what? He asked, his eyes landing on my lips, face inches from mine and I felt his breath on my cheek, his fingers tucking a strand of hair behind my ear, gently, lovingly.

“Or are you going to kiss me?” I panted, my breath fastened with all the emotions I felt at the moment as all of a sudden I became braver than usually.

We had to fog up the windows

When it gets dark

Just to keep us warm.

“would it be the worst thing?” he muttered and crossed the distance between us, both of his hands closing in on my waist pulling me closer. Honestly, despite his skillful lips and my blurry mind caused by the sensation he was giving me, making out while still siting on two different seats was a bit uncomfortable and it wasn’t helping that our hands and bodies wanted to feel every inch of each other.

“Come here” Dick whispered, breaking the kiss for a while, grabbing me by my hips and carefully placing on his lap “I want you closer to me.”

“Good thing we agree on something” I smiled against his lips “but I though the car was your temple?”

“It is. And that’s why I needed you on this mission with me. We had no time or space to talk and clarify things in the Tower. Too many people around….” His mouth moved onto my neck, gently sucking there, probably leaving hickeys that would be impossible to cover. Well, I couldn’t care less.

“And are we talking now?” I moaned softly as his hands sneaked under my shirt “you’re cold!”

“Well, not for long. Not with you baby.”

Due to some magical power I was not aware of, he was soon shirtless, helping me out of my T-shirt, wanting to feel my skin against his. God! I loved those strong arms, making me feel so safe, even if we were in the middle of the wild forest, at complete darkness where every possible psycho could just come at us. I knew if it ever came to that he would protect me. Not Robin. Dick. My Dick Grayson. My boy, I was in love (and in denial of it) for so long. I loved his scared chest, so broad and toned. I loved his eyes, the way he looked at me through those amazing eyelashes. I loved his tousled black hair and his cheeks and his possessiveness and recklessness. I loved how he made me lose control and just give in to the moment. I loved him all. Good and bat traits. And I loved how he was the one to walk that tightrope between our inhibitions. What else can you expect from an acrobat, right? His skin was a bit rough but soft at the same time, and satisfying his previous words, he was now so warm. I felt his pulse rising as I locked my hands on his neck, playing with the hair on his nape, wanting more of him.

Judging by his hold on me, he was pretty much immersed with the same feeling.

“I love you” he whispered, now kissing my chest.

“are you going to act on it?” I whined impatiently

“No, baby. This is just taste of what I can give you. This not the place to go full-on. I respect you too much for that”

“What? Dick…..” I arched my back trying to change his mind

“Y/N…..” he sighed heavily “don’t.”

“Why not? You started this.”

“I can’t really see you objecting, baby.”

“that’s the point!” I hissed “I don’t want you to hold back and …..”

“Trust me, I’ll give you anything you want. But…. I want to do it in more appropriate environment” he whispered in my ear, causing a shiver run down my spine. “Just imagine what’s coming for you.”

“Dick……” I moaned desperately, knowing I already lost this fight.

“Sush, End of discussion. Now rest.” he winded the seat down making me lay my head on his chest listening to his heartbeat. It wasn’t slow and definitely wasn’t calming at first, but soon became steady and much to my disappointment I started to drift off.

“Dickie….” I chuntered

“Yes, baby?” thank god for his flexibility that allowed him to reach to the backseat and gather a blanket to cover my half-exposed figure and a bit of himself

“You really planned this, didn’t you?” I giggled, my breath tickling his chest

“I did.” He sighed, holding me tighter. I felt like a baby, loved, secure, safe with him. Someone was looking over me and being taken care of was such a good feeling……

“I love you, Grayson……”

Wondering where the hell have we been?

And would it be the worst thing if we both fell asleep

Woke up to twenty calls each

When I opened my eyes again I was tangled in Dick’s arms as even in his sleep he was holding me steady. I tried to move as carefully as I possibly could, extremely sore, but still I didn’t manage to avoid waking him.

“Morning Y/N” he grinned and those sleepy eyes, still a bit blurry with the rest of the dream and hoarse voice made my heart swell. “Did you sleep well? Why are you crying?” he became awake in an instant “did I hurt you?” his alerted voice make me cry a bit more and he was quick to wipe all the tears “Y/N? Look at me. What happened?”

“Those are good tears, Dick. I just….I just feel a lot right now and I’m not sure how to process it all.”

“Well that’s a change from the randy girl from last night” he mocked and I lifted the corners of my mouth lightly

“Well, look what you are doing to me, Richard Grayson.” I looked him straight into the eyes “can we just stay here? In our bubble? I don’t want to go back to the tower….”

“I would love to, but we may be in trouble….”

“How so?” I raised an eyebrow and he handed me our phones. Twenty unanswered call… Each. “Oh, shit…. What do we tell them?”

“That we had the most fulfilling, additional eight hours of investigation” he grinned and I hit his arm, probably hurting myself more than Dick.

If it means that we'd have eight more hours alone

Or even if we never make it home

I guess that wouldn't be the worst thing

“Really? That’s what you going to tell Bruce?”

“I can just admit I finally got you all for myself….”

“Dick!!”

“What?”

“I guess that wouldn’t be the worst thing” I smiled and not able to help myself any longer kissed him, enjoying those last minutes of peace between us, before the search and rescue.

@somest1 @pinksirensong

#dc #dc imagine #dick grayson x reader #dick grayson imagine #nightwing x reader #nightwing x oc #dick grayson x you #nightwing x you #dick grayson #nightwing #batfamily x reader #dc titans #dc titans x reader #dick grayson fanfiction #dick grayson x y/n #nightwing x y/n #nightwing imagine #nightwing fanfiction

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spaghettificationandpretzels · 5 months ago

Text

The Glass Merchant Part Seven

Masterlist

Part Six

Contains: Fluff, smut.

3.1K words

At last

It was the music bleeding into the house that told Kai Minna had returned. Despite the fact that he was only half ready, he still raced downstairs, hairbrush still in hand to greet her. He made it out of the stairway before the sight of her stopped him in his tracks. Her dress was a beautiful, rich, dark green, going all the way down to the floor, with a full skirt. The whole thing simmered with gold specks and delicate golden vines extenuated her curves and well defined arm muscles.

She grinned when she saw his face holding her skirt and spinning to reveal how low the back was. "Do you like it?" He was stunned to silence, his eyes landing on her long corkscrew curls up in an intricate bun that was full of flowers and her gold eye makeup. "Kai, what do you think?"

He finally recovered, placing the brush down and swaggering over to her as he extended his hands before placing them on her tule covered shoulders. "You look like a dream."

He gestured behind him towards the bedroom. "I'm almost done." He certainly wasn't underdressed, the outfit she had provided him for the night was an excellently fitted dress shirt and a pair of trousers similar to the ones he wore the night they went to the Flower and Stone, but she looked like something else entirely.

She smiled and waved towards the couch. "Let me." He sat on the floor while she grabbed the brush, sitting down with him between her legs as he started to brush his hair.

She was careful, beginning at the ends and working all the way to the roots until she had brushed it smooth. He leaned into her hands, enjoying each gentle touch as she ran the brush through. "You spoil me."

She sighed. "My mother used to do this for a father all the time." She paused to laugh to herself. "His was much shorter, he could just never get it to fall right. That one hair that always stuck up used to piss her off to no end."

She began to braid it until she could place it into a bun in the style of the Hydromoran warriors he had seen in the history books, and he smiled as she directed him to a mirror. "Fucken'll that looks great."

She chuckled and shook her head before extending her hand. "Are you ready to go?"

He took her arm, looping it in his as he smiled. "You bet I am."

They walked out the door and towards the sound of music and the brightness of coloured lights sparkling in the distance, making their way to the community hall just as the festivities began. He looked around at everything, in the dying light of the late afternoon, it looked so different to what he had helped set up only hours before. The tiny lights Minna had spent hours making looked like stars as they twinkled on the ceiling and the hodgepodge of leaves and plants people had collected from their gardens had come together to create a vibrant greenness that was as close to the forest as one could get while the skies were nothing but grey.

"Wow."

She smiled brightly and pulled him in close. "I know right, we all did a pretty good job."

The war seemed so far away now it was like a distant memory, and the smiles of the people as they saw them felt like a warm welcome home. "Ay, that we did."

It was that laughter that did it, the air filled with joy as people ate and danced and talked, and Kai didn't know whether to laugh or smile or spin around the room with Minna in hand until the world word went blurry. There came a moment, when she was dancing with one her neighbours, a smile on her face so luminous it could have put the sun to shame, and his world went topsy turvy, up on its axis like he had just flown his ship into an asteroid belt that he realised he was in love, that nothing in the world could match up to the way he felt when the music change and he knew it was time.

He walked up to her, unable to find it in himself to swagger due to the weight of his feelings holding down his legs, and he stretched out his hand. "Dance with me?"

Her eyes twinkled, and she took his hand. "I've been waiting for you to ask me that all night."

He linked one hand with hers and placed the other on her hip as they began to dance the steps they had spent so many hours practising. He could do it by muscle memory, so he put all his focus on gazing down at her as people joined them. "Have I told you look beautiful tonight?"

She nodded. "Yes, mutiple times. Once when we were back at the house, then when I was stuffing my face with fried bark leaves, and again when I almost ate shit, tripping over my own feet and just then."

He grinned. "Well I'll make sure you hear it again before the night ends."

The music built, and he grinned as he shifted his hands to lift her while her hands found his shoulders. Her feet left the ground, and a handful of curls fell around her face as she looked down at him. The second her feet were back on the ground, he found himself unable to stop himself from kissing her, a hand laid gently on her cheek as the world around them faded to nothing when their lips touched.

"Do you wanna head back home?"

Her voice had a hint of something to it that sparked excitement in him. "Ay. To be honest, my feet are kinda sore, and it's only a matter of time before I miss a step and embarrass myself."

She smiled and took his hand, practically running out the door with him in tow. Everyone was too busy enjoying themselves to notice the expression on Kai's face, but Minna seemed to feel his eyes on her and waited until they were out of sight to him into a kiss.

He kissed her until he felt her teeth in his lower lip, then pulled back with a smirk. "Eager are we?"

She placed her hands on his chest, looking up at him through her eyelashes. "Yes and I'm sick of waiting so you better get your ass back to the house before I rip your clothes off and fuck right here on the main pathway."

He fought back a smile and leaned down, his lips brushing hers as he spoke. "Well we can't have that." He placed his hand on her lower back, the warmth of his palm bleeding through her dress and gestured towards the house. "Led the way Love."

It was a trip filled with little stops to kiss, and she opened the door and walked in backwards with her lips on his. They kicked off their shoes in a burst of laughter Minna tripped over her dress in a rush to pull Kai further into the house. He grabbed her and pulled her into him, both still laughing while they kissed in the middle of the room.

Between giggles and grasping hands, she paused, and the air shifted to something slower as she gazed into his eyes. "I love you."

He kissed her, his chest filling with warmth. "Say it again."

"I love you Kai."

He wrapped his arms around her, lifting her into the air and spinning her around in elation. "I love you, I love you, I love. Oh Minna, you have no idea how much."

He put her hand, and her hands held his face as he kissed her again. She pulled away with a smile, picking up her skirt and racing up the stairs with him following hot on her heels. He let her reach the bedroom, grabbing her and pulling her towards him just before she could drive over the bed. "You cheeky little brat."

He reached up and removed the flowery clasp, holding her hair up, watching with joy as her curls fell over her shoulders. Her fingers popped each of his shirt buttons free, and she pushed it off his shoulders, licking her lips at the sight of his firm, muscled chest. "See something you like?"

She nodded. "Yes, I do." She ran her fingers along the scars doting his torso, slowly making her way downward to cup the bludge growing in his pants. He took in a shuddering breath, his eyes drifting shut as she repeated the same fingertip brushing on his covered cock.

He stopped her before he could lose himself in the sensations and ran his hand up and down her back. "How do I get this off you?"

She smiled and spun, pointing towards a well hidden zip in the skirt. His lips landed on the back of her neck while she pulled her arms from the sleeves, and as the fabric loosened, he shoved the skirt all the way off, and she stepped out of it. She was left in nothing but a pair of underpants, and he felt his blood grow hot as she spun back around to face him. The light in the bedroom was gentle but enough that he could see all of her in detail. He didn't know where to touch first, so he settled for a kiss, moaning into it as she unzipped his pants and shoved them down his legs before he kicked them away.

One hand slid from his cheek down his body, stopping to graze the odd scar until it wrapped around his hard cock. He bit her lower lip as she rubbed her thumb across the tip, gathering precum to slick her strokes. He pulled away, grinning as he gripped the lace covering the last bit of skin and ripped. The fabric came apart with ease, and she gasped sharply when his fingers slowly explored her. Her head fell back, and he used the space to his full advantage, kissing her neck as she angled her knees outwards to make more room for his hand.

The hand on his cock had slowed in her enjoyment, but he couldn't find it in himself to care, and he pulled his hand away, much to her protest. He cut her off with a kiss before she could complain, licking his lips at her heaving chest. "How about we take this to the bed before your knees buckle?"

It only took one backward step for them to reach the edge of the bed, and she pulled him on top of her while he kissed her breathless. His hand returned to her flesh, his rings cold on her skin as he ran it up her thigh to her core. She spread her legs, and he smirked as she looked at him with lust filled eyes. "Touch me, please."

"You don't need to tell me twice." His fingers were more insistent this time, gathering the ample wetness from her entrance and then rubbing her clit gently to gauge her reactions. Her mouth fell open, and her eyes went glassy. "Like that?"

Her breath jerked in her chest, and she nodded. "Yes."

He couldn't decide whether to kiss her again or watch pleasure fill her expression, but she picked for him, lifting her head from the pillows to steal a kiss while he circled her entrance with two fingers. He swallowed her moans as he slid them inside her, and she gripped the sheets as his thumb found her clit. "That feel good, Love?"

Her words caught in her throat halfway into her reply when he crooked his fingers to run her G-spot with his rough fingertips. He started to move his hand more, getting into a rhythm as her muscles began to twitch. Their kisses grew more desperate, a mix of teeth and tongue and frantic affection while he focused on each gasp and broken utterance of his name. He could tell she was getting closer by the way the moans were changing into whimpers and the heaving of her chest, and he moved his lips to her neck to suck a mark into her flesh as he worked her ever closer.

She felt like she was on fire, like every nerve in her body was ablaze with each pass of his skilled fingers. She could feel his smile as his lips and teeth connected with her neck, and there was something about the juxtaposition between his soft, plump lips and the roughness of his beard that confused her brain enough to make the pleasure filling her feel perfectly floaty. She could feel herself teetering, and by the immaculate pressure of his thumb on her clit he knew it too. It was the desperation in his voice as he whispered his desire filled thoughts into her ear that did it, and her whole body jerked as he sent her over the edge.

There was something about the way she was clenching around his fingers that made his heart catch, the mix of ego and satisfaction at a job well down spurring him on as her breathing slowed. He pulled his fingers away, sucking them into his mouth as they made sluggish eye contact. "By the Gods that was something."

He chuckled and settled between her legs, kissing her softly. "Yeah, you ain't seen nothing yet."

They kissed for a few moments longer, each pass of their lips building in intensity until he was moving his hands between their bodies to grab his cock. He was just about to move forward when he felt a hand on his chest. "Is everything alright Love? We can stop here if you want too."

She shook her head. "Everything's fine." She swallowed and he moved his hand away, using it to hold himself up as he looked over her face for any signs of distress. "I just need to know that you're not going anywhere."

He smiled softly, dropping his face to rub her nose with his. "I'm here to stay, don't worry."

She smiled and kissed him, pecking his face over and over again until she reached his lips. "Then you may proceed."

He did as she asked, gripping his cock and rubbing it up and down her slit before sliding inside her slowly while he pressed his cheek to hers. She wrapped her arms around his body and pulled him tight to her, trying to focus on the weight of his body as she adjusted to his ample size. He stayed still, waiting for her ok as he tried to gather his compsure. She was tight and warm and so wet and he felt like his head had been shoved into a butter churn as she dug her nails into his bicep and spoke. "Move, please."

He started slow, rocking his hips as he placed his weight on his elbows to gain the best leverage. Minna pulled his top knot free and wove her hands into his hand, bringing his lips to hers as she started to buck her hips. She moved her leg further up his body, opening herself up more as his thrusts picked up speed and force. She gasped, she could feel every ridge and detail of his cock as it pushed into her and she shoved a hand between their bodies to run her clit while he angeled his hips to rub her G-spot with each pass. "Harder."

She was going to kill him. "Are you sure?"

"Yes." His concern only made things worse and it was getting hard to think as he fulfilled her request and drove into her with force. With each thrust, her body grew tighter and she clung to him like he was the only thing keeping her tethered to the planet as heat once again rose in her core. "Kai, please."

He fought the urge to tease, to ask her what she was pleading about because he knew. He could tell by the quickness of her breath and the way his self-control was slipping as she tightened around him what she needed and he found himself unable to deny her. "I'll give you whatever you want."

She didn't moan when it happened, it was like it was so strong she couldn't, but he let out a feral grunt as she clenched violently and her back bowed off the bed. He barely managed to keep command of himself, slowing to regain focus so he didn't end things earlier than he wanted. When he picked up the pace again it was slow, mindful that she was still shaking through the aftershock. She was relaxed against the bed, her hand shifting her from clit to hold his waist as he ground his hips into her. He popped up, moving one hand up the bed to brush sweat stuck hair from her face as he maintained the lesssurely thrusts. "You good Love?" She nodded. "You think you can give me one more?"

She could hear the brass in his tone, he was all ego and pride as he rocked his hips while waiting for her reply. "Yes."

He grinned, picking up the speed and moving all his weight onto one arm so he could rub her clit in fast circles. He paid no mind to her whine that sounded half needy and half overstimulated. "Come on Love you can do it."

She did her best to manage a glare, but it failed as she was pulled into the undertow of another orgasm, and she pulled him right down with him, his lips stuttering and losing their rhythm as he pulsed inside her. He collapsed on top of her, their breath moving in tandem as they recovered. He rested his forehead on hers as they held onto each other. "What do you need pretty girl?" His voice was rough and his muscles were sore but he was ready to cut his heart out of his chest and present it to her on a platter if that's what she wanted.

"Nothing." She giggled and smoothed his messy hair. "Maybe a bath."

He smiled, holding her hip as he slipped his softening cock from her. "I can run you a bath as long as I can join you."

She brushed his cheek with the backs of her fingers. "Of course." She looked at him so dreamly and a warmth spread from his chest all the way to the tips of his fingers and toes. "I meant what I said when I told you I love you."

He kissed her, unwilling to part from her get up and follow through with her request for a bath. "I know, I meant it too Minna."

Epilogue

@rayslittlekitten @laurfilijames @red-orchid @videnoirfics

#rebel moon #rebel moon part one a child of fire #fix it fic #kai rebel moon #kai rebel moon/ofc #Kai rebel moon/original female character #the glass merchant #charlie hunnam

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surrenderingintotheone · 7 months ago

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I’m leaving this place

And my heart is so open I feel so much

I’m gonna miss them so much

Everything about this place, about this life, about my roots

My ancestors right here with me

Seeing my linage in front of my face

It’s so powerful

I know I had to cóme back here for so much work

And so much remeberance of my roots and my truth

I know where I came from I know my linage I know my blood

I know our truth and the wisdom and power of my DNA

I came to purify my DNA

I came back to remember who I am

I lost who I was for a moment, being involved in everyone eles es life’s and dreams

And I had to come back home to remember who I am

I now I remember

And nobody can come shake me off what I know I AM

I come from a linage of deep powerful knowledge and wisdom

I know who I am

And I am ready to go out and share that light and wisdom to the world

I go where my heart takes me

God is with me always

I remember the truth and the truth sets me free

YO SOY

A new form of existence has come

I have to retreat in order to welcome this new chapter of my life

I am so blessed

I am so privileged

I have an amazing support system

I have so much love in my life is amazing

I couldn’t be more grateful

Thank you thank you thank you

I love you my Lord Krsna

Thank you from reminding me the truth

Everything is for you

#mine #me #love #cute #yogini #yogi #hippie #420community #grunge #gratitude #girl #truth is #my truth #journal #writers on tumblr #my life #ask me anything

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xxenia14 · 2 years ago

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Inspiring rise

Summary: y/n being one of barça‘s photographers but one faithful training session changed everything.

Story written by AI/ChatGPT because I am the most uncreative person on this planet 🤣 don‘t like ChatGPT written stories, don‘t read it. Hate messages and name calling is unnecessary!

Y/n was ecstatic when she received the news that she had been selected to join FC Barcelona's media team. It was a dream come true for her, as she had always been passionate about both football and photography. She knew that this opportunity would allow her to combine her two loves in a way she had never imagined before.

As the newest member of the media team, Y/n's main responsibility was to capture moments during the training sessions. She would often find herself standing on the sidelines, camera in hand, capturing the intensity and skill of the players. While she loved her job, there was a small part of her that yearned to be out on the field, playing alongside these incredible athletes.

Y/n had grown up playing amateur football in her tiny town in Spain. She had always dreamed of making it to the professional level, but being from a small community, she never had the opportunity. Football had remained a beloved hobby, and she poured her heart into it every chance she got.

One sunny day during a particularly lively training session, Y/n's attention was caught by two players, Alejandro Balde and Pablo Torre. The duo was engaged in a friendly competition, shooting long passes to each other during the water break. Y/n marveled at their technique and precision getting closer to them while capturing their every move through her lens.

Suddenly, Pablo became distracted by Ferran shouting for him from across the field. He turned his head at the wrong moment, completely missing the ball that was headed his way. Y/n, who had been paying close attention, instinctively reacted. In a split second, she reached out and skillfully plucked the ball from the air and sending it back precisely to where Alejandro was standing.

Balde and Torre were stunned by Y/n's reflexes and ball control. Little did they know, someone else had witnessed the entire scene unfold.

Xavi Hernandez, a legend of Barcelona's men's team and now being their coach, had been observing the training session from the sidelines. He was impressed by Y/n's ability. After the session, he approached the Barcelona Femení trainer and inquired about Y/n's possibilities for a trial with them.

The trainer, intrigued by Xavi's interest, decided to give Y/n an opportunity to showcase her skills. She was invited to a trial with the Barcelona Femení team, the renowned women's team associated with FC Barcelona. Nervous but determined, Y/n stepped onto the pitch, ready to prove herself.

To everyone's amazement, Y/n aced her trial with ease. Her passion, skill, and dedication were evident in every move she made. She seamlessly integrated with the team, showcasing her abilities as a versatile and talented player. The Barcelona Femení players welcomed her with open arms, recognizing her as a valuable addition to their squad.

Word spread throughout the club about Y/n's success. A few started attending the women's team's training sessions when they had time, eager to see Y/n in action. They were astounded by the level of play she achieved in such a short time. Y/n had become more than just a teammate to all of them; she was an inspiration.

As Y/n continued to grow and excel within the Barcelona Femení team, she never forgot her roots. She cherished the support she received from her fellow players and the entire club. The women's team became her second family, and together, they set out to conquer new heights in women's football.

Y/n's journey from a small town in Spain to the professional ranks of FC Barcelona was a testament to the power of determination and talent. She had defied the odds and shattered barriers, proving that dreams can come true with hard work and a little bit of luck. And as she stood on the pitch, wearing the famous Barcelona jersey, Y/n knew that her journey had only just begun.

#fc barca #fc barcelona #alejandro balde #balde #pablo torre #ferran torres #xavi hernandez

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bookns · 1 year ago

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what the fuck do you mean Can I Be Him is coming out a day early. This is for you @ethereal-maia you are amazing as a friend and as an editor.

“Let's just go once more, Annabeth.” A voice from the sound booth echoed in the stadium. Her long time friend and her sound system operator, Will Solace's voice rang through the sound speakers.

Eyeing him from the stage, Annabeth nodded and adjusted the volume of her headset to her latest song Out Of The Wood. Hearing the queue of the backtrack playing in the echoes of the stadium, the memory of her and her producer, Clarisse La Rue creating it, made her smile as she started to sing.

Although this was just a rehearsal for the show that she was going to perform tonight, Annabeth sang as if she was already performing for the thousands that would arrive. The ending of the song surpassed all too soon for Annabeth as she was too caught up in her performance and the music to notice.

“Well done, Annabeth.” Will exclaimed through the speakers.

“Well done, indeed,” said a voice beyond the stage's eye.

Annabeth’s eyes scanned the grounds, searching for the voice. Percy Jackson came into view, clapping as he did so.

Annabeth grinned when she saw him.

“What are you doing here?”

“I came to get a taste of the stage, and was welcomed by a voice that was serenading me.”

“Very funny. The show isn’t until tonight. We were just finishing rehearsals for my part. You and the rest of the band have rehearsals later tonight.”

“Perfect timing on my end, then. Are you ready for a break?”

“I am,” she said, “Just let me finish up with the sound check, then we can leave.”

.o0o.

Sound check, to Percy, was a funny thing. It wasn't always needed. Before the band joined Annabeth, back when they were on their tour, they used to only soundcheck once a city.

However within the past few weeks of getting to know her, he realized that Annabeth is a perfectionist. Whenever he, or anyone else in the band is looking for her, her manager Silena would lead them to the recording booth. She would always be writing a new song, or adding some hidden detail to an already produced song to surprise that night of fans.

He knew that Annabeth was born for the stage. Anyone with ears would be able to tell you that but being alongside her, working with her and the rest of the band has been the best experience Percy has had.

She knew what she was doing, and it was evident with the packed bleachers and the screaming fans that listened to them play each night.

.o0o.

“You ready?” Percy called as he knocked on her dressing room door.

The door swung open and Annabeth stood there, a smile growing on her face.

Last he saw of her before she had disappeared into the outskirts of the stage, she was still wearing her costume that would be for the show that night. It was bright blue, extremely sparkly, and impossible to miss. Now she was dressed more casually with a pair of jeans and a white sweatshirt with the words ‘Harvard 1989’ printed on it.

“Yeah let’s go,” she replied.

Percy smiled and they guided each other out of the stadium.

Once they got outside, the raging autumn air felt chilly against his cheeks.

“Oh god, I do not remember Philadelphia being this cold.”

Percy chuckles at her weak attempt of warming her hands.

“You’re from California, right? I guess that they don’t get winter like we do here.”

Annabeth smiled.

“Well, I’m originally from Virgina but I moved to California when I was younger.”

He whistled.

“That had to be a big change.”

Annabeth nodded.

“I don’t really remember it that much. I was only seven when we moved to California, so it wasn’t like I was all that in touch with my southern roots. I wasn’t even that in touch with my Califronian self despite looking like a California surfer girl. I moved away to New York when I was 16.”

“Sixteen,” Percy gaped at her, “That’s just a kid.”

“I know, but it was needed. I was stuck at a house that wasn’t going to support my career,’”

Percy stared at Annabeth shockingly.

“Damn, I always knew I got lucky with my mom always supporting me, but I never knew that you had to go through that.”

“My dad’s a History professor at Harvard. He doesn't care about music”

“But you do?”

His question wasn’t accusing like she thought it would be. Most people would immediately judge her for her ‘impossible’ dream, but Percy didn’t. Then again, Annabeth realized Percy wasn't like most people. He understood her drive for making people listen to her music. After all, he was in the same industry.

Annabeth knew that Percy would understand her need for sharing her music.

“Music is permanent. People have always loved music, whether it be a folktale from the thirteenth century to Mozart or hell, current day pop. It creates stories and allows truth to be told.”

Percy nodded along.

“I get that. I got into music to tell my own story, the story of the lost kid that listened to music on his single mom’s radio while she took care of me all on her own. It helped me calm down, and got me to stop getting into trouble. Writing lyrics gave me a vision. I never thought I could do this as a career,but I’m so glad it did happen. Meeting Beckendorf, Thalia, and Grover changed my life. I wouldn’t have made it through middle school, much less anything else without them.

She smiled.

“Meeting Thalia changed my life too, so I understand it. Thalia always had a thing for finding the troubled. She is the one who took care of me when I ran away from home, you know?”

‘You ran away? I thought that was just some sort of metaphor that is in your music.”

She nodded.

“I wish. When I was 16, my dad didn’t take music seriously. He didn't think I could make it as a career. So I ran away. I hung out on Thalia’s couch for months, writing and practicing.”

“How did you even know who Thalia was? She never mentioned that she knew you.’

“Thalia was my babysitter when I was younger on top of taking care of me when I was 16.”

“Thalia babysat?” His shock made Annabeth realize that, despite being in a band with her, maybe Percy didn’t know Thalia at all.

“She did for years. She used to watch me for days on end when my dad was too busy studying for his exams to notice me. Most of my childhood was at Thalia's house and the sundaes she used to feed me for breakfast.

“That sounds like Thalia. She never really did give a damn about the rules. Growing up, she was the reason me, Beck, and Grover got in trouble so much.”

Annabeth giggled.

“I would like to say I don’t see it from you,” but she eyed him up and down, “trouble is all I see.”

He chuckled.

“Seems like you aren’t an angel yourself, Miss Chase.”

“I’m plenty angel. Ask anyone? Hell, ask Silena”

“Speaking of Silena, how did you two meet?”

“Me and Lena met when I just started in the industry. My first album had just come out, and I was in desperate need of a manager.”

Annabeth snorted.

“It was actually my ex-boyfriend who introduced us.”

Percy raised an eyebrow.

“Really?”

Annabeth sighed.

“His name was Luke Castellan. Silena used to manage him before she became full time for me.

“Wasn’t that a little weird? At least for you, I mean, when you and Luke stopped going out?”

She scrunched her nose.

“Not really. By then, me and Silena had finalized the papers for her to work for me, and he was so toxic. He’s actually the one who I wrote my songs "Would've, Could’ve, Should’ve and White Horse about.”

Percy sighed in relief.

“At least it worked out for the best. You get to create songs over awful guys, and Silena gets a job out of it.”

“It’s been only a few years of Silena working with me. She’s still new to the managing world, and we’re learning together, I guess.”

“Well it seems she might have a new band to manage if her and Beck continue forward”

Annabeth laughed.

“Why do you call him that? Beckendorf? I know it’s his last name, but it’s odd. I thought only sports players only called their friends by their last name.”

“Well, a long time ago, when we were kids, Grover, Beck and I all went to the same summer camp, and we used to have homemade jerseys that my mom would sew up for us. One day I just started calling him Beckendorf, and it just stuck.”

“That was sweet of your mom.”

Percy smiled.

“My mom was always doing stuff like that during my childhood. It was just me and her growing up, and we didn’t have much money. She would always figure out how to sew jerseys for us, or bake blue cookies each time I would come from camp.”

“Blue cookies?”

Annabeth’s puzzlement made Percy laugh even harder, making the cold air flush against Annabeth’s skin .

“I lied about saying that it was just me and my mom. I had a step dad, but he was more of a monster than man. He didn't believe in blue food, so she used to dye everything blue. I’m surprised that my teeth aren’t permanently indigo. It was like our little act of rebellion against him.”

Sympathetically, Annabeth said, “Step parents are rough. Believe me, I know.”

She stopped to look at him as the red of the stop light glowed in the night.

“Gabe was one for the dramatics. Always begging for money for his poker games, and other addictions. Was yours like that?”

“My stepmom was never a horrible person to anyone else. She treated me like I was, though. They got married when I was seven like i said, and ever since then, I was treated like i don't belong in that house. I was on my own, for at least it felt like it, the rest of my life.”

“My mom saved me,” Percy says, “I can’t imagine what it must’ve been like to grow up in a house where you felt so alone.”

Annabeth grew quiet as they stopped at a corner, the harsh lights of a diner in their rearview being the only thing that allowed Percy to see her gentle shivers in the cold.

“It got better as I got older. I met Thalia, started creating music, and suddenly they didn't matter. I created my own family. What’s the word?”

“A found family?”

“That’s it.”

“How does one become a part of this found family?”

“I won’t kiss and tell.”

“You have to kiss me to tell me, is what I’m hearing,” Percy said slyly.

“If that’s what you want?”

Annabeth leaned up on her tip-toes as Percy wrapped one of his arms around her waist.

His lips nearly touched hers, he could almost taste her lips on his.

Using what was left of her height, Annabeth met his lips with an urgent reverence.

Within the safety of his arms now fully wrapped around her, Annnabeth explored his mouth.

He bit down on her lip causing her to gasp, and groan.

She broke away from the kiss, her hands still on his chest, heaving as she began to process what had just occurred.

Days of writing about a first kiss that leaves her breathless, Annabeth realizes that this green-eyed boy had a lot more than she realized.

“Percy, do that again.”

Hoarsely, Percy chuckled and Annabeth felt it in her core.

“I will do whatever you want, Beth.”

Can I Be Him is my Annabeth Chase and Percy Jackson as Taylor Swift and 5 Seconds of Summer - 2nd chapter out now.

#lolatalkscanibehim #percy jackson #percy jackson and the olympians #taylorswift #taylor swift #annabeth chase #percy and annabeth

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castleaudios · 2 years ago

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HI CASTLE, WELCOME TO TUMBLR!! (thank the gods you made one, I cannot keep track of twitter to save my life) I considered sending this outside of anon but, I am not ready to be perceived. Anyway- hmmmm I wanted to know a couple stupid things and now I can ask them.

How bad is Celine at keeping updated with the times? We know she uses spectacles. Does she still use quills and ink bottles???? Can she at least use a brick phone?? Does she know what a tamagotchi is.

What does evie do for work? We know what Beth does for work, but as far as I can remember we haven't heard about what evie does.

What is Rose's favourite genre of book? We're certain that she reads in her free time but we don't really know what she reads. Is she into fantasy? Does she secretly have a taste for those mature books hidden in the back of the library that Chloe mentioned? or something else? I MUST KNOW

What name would Ro like to be their official legal name? I'm assuming Ro is short for something but, if I'm wrong just correct me.

I have no questions for Claire, she just deserves a hug.

Actually no, has she talked to ranger about what she's discovered yet?

Who got Beth into therapy? She's clearly grown a lot over the last few years, and her therapist definitely worked overtime for that first year, but I can't imagine that Beth was the one to first take that step.

Will Abby ever follow up on that story of how she felt drawn to glenwood? She seemed pretty excited about it

Speaking of that, is that whole "glenwood called to me" thing, something rooted in magic? Is it orchestrated, is it just things coming together coincidentally? Or things falling into place through some force.

I know you mentioned collabs in your q&a and, I won't rush you cause that's pretty daunting. But- have you considered who you'd want to voice Simon? I know that there's probably other characters who may show up in the future but, Simon is so cool and I would love to see who you envision playing him if you ever push through with a collab in the future.

Did you ever find that color palette of each character that you mentioned during your q&a?

Once again, you do such great work and all of it just brightens my day! I hope you have a good one -Arry

THANK YOU! And don’t worry, I’m still not used to being perceived, this shit is weird

But onto the questions!

1. She’s actually very good at keeping up with the world, it’s just the digital age that’s been so quick, plus the rest of the vamps saving her from the internet. Celine’s a collector by nature so she had every tamagotchi

2. Evie worked as a math tutor and at a grocery store to pay the rent, but now she’s on the pack’s payroll helping maintain the finances for the whole operation.

3. Rose is a sci-fi/fantasy reader and she most certainly knows all about that secret shelf in the back! Her favorite series is the original John Carter books, her most recent read was “The Fifth Season” by N.K. Jemisin

4. Ro is their full chosen name! They no longer go by their deadname and the whole pack has moved on from using it. All the paperwork was to simply make the change official on all their legal documents!

5. She does 😔

6. That little conversation will be next week’s audio! (1/18/23)

7. Beth has been in therapy since she was 13 years old. She stopped going for a while before reconnecting with a new therapist after the whole pack situation happened. Simon was the one to officially get her started and we’ll learn why in Beth’s next audio!

8. Yes, she will! There will be more explanation for what that “pull” is and why the Open Wielder felt it as well

9. I promise that Glenwood isn’t nearly as sinister as people are thinking.

10. Simon is a character who is very dear to my heart and will appears in multiple audios, so finding a VA who could be on standby for that has been tricky! I’d love to hold auditions for anyone who’d like to try out and play him. I always imagine Simon as just a brick wall of a man (think Sig Curtis from FMAB or Massimo from Luca) so I’d love to find a voice that fits that image. No VA’s immediately come to mind but I also wouldn’t want to put any pressure on any creator mentioned.

11. I… completely forgot about the color pallet… adding it to the To Do List!

Thank you for all your questions! I hope you have a great day as well 💛

#castleaudios #castlereplies

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howaboutcastiel · 1 year ago

Text

That Good Old Way 2

Summary: You and Joel have a talk about the future. Previous Chapter.

(I decided to use a gif of Peña because this is 40 year old Joel and I wanted The Vibes)

Content: !!! This chapter is from the reader’s perspective and it features a lot of negative self-talk as well as expectations of abusive behavior from Joel. There’s also talk of firearms and use of firearms. Let it be known here that I am NOT an expert when it comes to guns and the advice mentioned is a combination of google searches and cable TV quotes.

Maybe boredom was getting the best of all of you. The supply runs quickly extended from half-day trips to twelve-hour ones, where two members of the group would leave on horses at first light and return shortly after dark. If it wasn’t Joel and Tommy, it was the lovebirds out looking for food and gear. Out of the immediate radius of the village, there seemed to be plenty to pick from, but it wasn’t without its danger.

Everyone in the group had managed not to sustain any more serious injuries, but it was clear that venturing further from your temporary farm home meant facing all sorts of new trouble. The village may have offered a layer of protection from raiding parties and groups of infected, but their reach only spanned so far. As it was, your farmhouse was at the very edge of their influence. Exploring closer was neither desirable nor likely to reap much benefit, and exploring outward was pushing your luck every day. Tommy had managed to find some root vegetables that could withstand the cold, and lots of ammunition and scrap fabric came in over the weeks, but the loot was nothing special overall. At best, Isobel had finally managed to find you a proper winter coat.

It wouldn’t be long until it was your turn to tag along.

This is where you knew you were bound to screw things up. You were surprised that you had made it to this point with as little drama as the party had been through. The death of the ex-marine had been a great challenge for everyone, but ever since that day, there was only quiet.

No one had yelled at you. No one had laid a hand on you besides cleaning your wounds. No one had reminded you of how useless you were—how incapable of doing basic tasks you so obviously seemed. The only shouting that happened at all was few and far between, and mostly had to do with Joel’s frustration about his lingering concussion symptoms. You gathered pretty quickly that, even though he desperately needed someone to take care of him, he hated the thought of anyone going out of their way to help him with something. Usually, the yelling was nothing more than a quick snap at Tommy for being overbearing. Once, it was to the group in general, after which Mateo all but laughed in his face. Life in the quaint little farmhouse was quiet and cooperative, for the most part.

That didn’t mean it felt peaceful, and it certainly didn’t mean that you felt welcome here.

And now that you needed to truly pull your weight? To ride a horse and hold a gun and keep yourself safe from infected or raiders or worse?

You knew that you’d have them begging the reverend to take you back.

And you knew he’d say yes. He would always say yes.

The thought made you sick.

You didn’t know how to ride a horse, and you certainly didn’t know how to wield a gun while you did it. Under the most controlled circumstances, you were a piss-poor shot, and you knew that the pressure of a genuine threat would make you freeze or falter. You weren’t the warrior that Joel so clearly was. You weren’t a soldier, like Tommy. Not a survivor like Mateo or a doctor like Isabelle. All you had to bring to the table now was… wood chopping. Cooking dinner and planting veggies and washing dishes and playing house. As soon as they were ready to leave this place, the party would understand how little you were worth. They would figure it wasn’t worth it to have to protect you all the way to Boston.

But for now, you were worth it. For now, you were safe.

And for some reason, Joel was asking for you.

“Hey, sweetheart.” His voice was that soft, patient tone that it was every time he spoke to you. It was so gentle that you almost wanted to call it patronizing, but you couldn’t deny that you liked it. “Come on in. You can leave the door open if you want.”

You, Tommy, and Joel were still trading off on the two upstairs bedrooms. The past few days, Joel and Tommy had taken the beds while you slept on the couch, which was the boys’ least favorite arrangement. Even Tommy, for some reason, was upset by you sleeping downstairs in the living room. You guessed it was because he was the same kind of stubborn as Joel. As you stepped into the room Joel was staying in, you pulled the door so that it was only open a crack. He sat against the headboard with his head cushioned by his hands. You approached the bed, but didn’t sit down.

“Is everything alright?”

Joel nodded, his eyebrows turning up into that familiar puppy dog expression. How he could be so soft and so vicious all at once, you could never understand.

He swallowed. “Just wanted to talk to you.”

Oh. It was happening earlier than you thought it would. Already, he was ready to tell you to get lost. The thoughts raced around in your head. He doesn’t want to carry my weight anymore. They’re mad at me. Joel’s mad at me. I’ve done something wrong. I’ve forgotten something. He’s going to scold me, isn’t he? He’s going to yell and scream—

“Not really good at talking,” Joel continued. “But I figured we need to. Seein’ as this arrangement’s… looking more and more permanent.”

You looked at him with what you could only assume was a confused expression, and a beat of silence between you grew into two, then three. Finally, the silence was as uncomfortable as the thought of him yelling.

“What is it you want to talk about?” You eventually gave him the cue to speak up.

Joel pursed his lips. His eyes darted around the room uncomfortably without settling on you. Here it comes, you thought.

“The weather’s finally gettin’ warmer. And even though it’s mighty cozy living in this little farmhouse of ours, I’m thinking we can’t be stayin’ much longer. Tommy’s been dead set on Boston for months now, and I’m sure the lovebirds are gonna be wantin’ for more company than the three of us. That, and…”

You tensed in spite of yourself, readying yourself for the sting of his words, readying your ears for the raising of his voice when you inevitably responded the wrong way to his criticism. His lips turned at the corners while he tried to push the words out. He must be disgusted with me. Repulsed. He must be so angry.

“That old village of yours ain’t too keen on us sticking around. We thought it wasn’t gonna be a problem, seeing as we’re more than a mile out from that church anyways. But evidently, they know that we’re holed up here, and… they ain’t too happy about it.”

His words were muffled inside your head. “They know we’re here?”

“They’re not gonna hurt you,” he insisted. Joel’s posture had slowly risen until he was hunched forward in the bed, almost like he was curled in on himself, but now he made an effort to straighten his back and raise his chin. “They ain’t gettin’ anywhere near you. Don’t you worry about that. I’m only saying that we can’t stay here in the long term. We’ll need to be leaving soon unless we want the reverend to send some more men to pay us a visit.”

Your head, it wasn’t catching up to what Joel was saying. All you could manage to think first was that he was mad at someone else, not you. It echoed in your head until your brain got around to understanding. Then the anxious feeling in your gut only twisted deeper.

“…more men?”

Joel’s eyes only widened some more, glaring into you with an expression only discernible as pity.

“Couple of ‘em cornered Tommy and me yesterday on our rounds.” He pushed the words out slowly, like he was admitting to something horrible. “Said it was time to… to move on. Made it known that we weren’t gonna get another warning. I’m sure you can get some idea of how the conversation went.”

“We have to go now, then.” There was sudden haste in your voice that had Joel shuddering back, muscles sprung. “We need to pack all our stuff—be out by first light.”

“Whoa, easy now.” Joel’s hand shot out to grab at your shoulder, gently pulling you down before you could scramble off of the bed. “Just hold on a second. I ain’t planning on runnin’ with my tail between my legs. We’re not in that big a hurry, sugar.”

You shook your head, a cold sweat forming on your skin. “You don’t know what they’ll do.”

“I think I can just about guess the gist of it,” he countered.

“Then you know why we can’t stay.”

His hand gripped your shoulder tighter. The contact sent something through you, grounding and more unsettling all at once.

“I want to make sure we’re prepared for what’s out there,” Joel explained in a hoarse tone. “We got food, sure. We can find game on our trip if we need to stretch our supply. But there’s plenty of danger out there, you know that. Runners, clickers, whole swarms of infected.”

Joel made a disgusted, truly angry face.

“And people.”

You scoffed, almost a laugh. “Seems you have more trouble with them than the infected.”

Joel ignored your comment. His expression was serious. “I want to make sure we can protect ourselves out there.”

It was your turn to avoid his gaze. You were slowly making your way back around to that realization he was going to have. If he hadn’t found a reason to be angry with you before, this was bound to be it.

He noticed the change. “I’m not trying to scare you. I know we can make it to Boston. We will make it to Boston. I just need to think it through before we go out in the open.”

“I’m not…” you shuddered. Joel’s hand lifted off your shoulder, barely grazing your skin as he didn’t pull away all the way. “I can’t protect myself, Joel. It’s not that I’m scared, I’m… I’m just not capable.”

He scoffed. “What’re you talkin’ about? You’re one of the most capable people I know. You’ve kept this house together for weeks now. Kept us fed off of scraps I didn’t even know to call food. I’ve seen men twice your size struggle to chop wood like you. And I’ve seen you put up with me. Don’t know why you think you wouldn’t be capable.”

“I can’t shoot a gun.” You pulled away from him. “And I don’t know how to ride a horse. I think I’m gonna be slowing you down, trying to tag along to Boston. I think—I think I can’t ask you to drag me along.”

You expected Joel to agree with you. Or worse, get angry. Scold you for being so useless as to being unable to care for yourself. He only stared at you with a blank expression, though, setting your nerves on fire as you waited. After a moment, he laughed. Really, heartily, breathily laughed. His soft lips stretched across a bright white smile. Dark brown eyes crinkled at the edges and the chuckle that rose from his chest was loud and boisterous. Your heart hammered in your chest.

His tone was…joking, almost. “Oh, honey. Don’t you ever worry about asking me for a damn thing. I don’t think you’re slowing me down at all. And you can shoot a gun, I’m sure of it. I’ll just bet that no one’s taken the time to show you how. Same with riding a horse. I can’t imagine you havin’ much trouble with that. Our horses already love you. You’ll pick it up quick.”

Your breathing was heavy enough that you could hear it in the gaps between his words. Joel’s face turned soft, less amused and more genuine, as he waited for you to respond to him. When he realized you were having trouble with that, he rethought his words.

He added, “Let me show you how to shoot, sweetheart.”

Finally, your heartbeat calmed enough that you could hear your own thoughts again. Meekly, you nodded.

��Good.” He brought his hand back up in front of you. You didn’t pull away, expecting a hand on your shoulder again, but his fingertips came to brush along the underside of your chin. He stood from the bed, making his way to the door without looking back at you. Joel stalled in the doorway for a second, not having heard any movement behind him.

“C’mon now. No time like the present.”

Slowly, silently, you followed him outside.

~~•~~

“Squeeze, don’t pull.”

There wasn’t much ammunition for you to waste on target practice, but Joel didn’t seem to mind the three missed shots you’d already taken. An empty can of pinto beans sat on the jagged stump of a willow tree, ungrazed by your bullets. Each time you’d aimed, your fingers had flinched or your wrist had jerked. After each shot, you instinctively hunched lower into your shoulders, expecting him to yell.

But Joel’s voice was gentle as always.

“You’re holdin’ the gun like it’s gonna jump out of your hand. Relax into it a little bit, sweetheart. You’re controlling the gun, not the other way around.”

Up until this point, he’d delivered instructions from a few feet away, not daring to step into your space to correct your grip or guide you with his touch. You nodded hesitantly at him, rolling your shoulders and lining the pistol up with the can as best you could. This time, you twitched before your finger even pressed against the trigger. Joel noticed your shiver.

“If I can’t do this now, how am I supposed to shoot someone trying to kill me?” You tried not to let your voice sound too much like a whine.

“You’re thinkin’ too much about it.” Joel stepped closer, just within your personal space. “I’m hopin’ it won’t come to you having to shoot anyone, but I know you can do it if you have to. You’ve just got to stop looking at the gun like it’s going to hurt you.”

“It’s a gun, Joel.”

He scoffed. “It’s a gun that you’re holding. You decide who—or in this case, what—exactly it hurts. Now come on, show that tin can who’s boss.”

Your body went rigid when you aimed again for the aluminum can. You forced a deep breath out of your lungs and tried your best to steady your hands. The sound of the shot echoed across the hills, and the dull, cracking impact of the bullet on dead wood tumbled back toward you.

Joel’s hands were on yours before your heart had the chance to sink into your stomach.

“Give me this for a second, sweetheart.”

You loosened your grip, allowing Joel to slip the gun out of your hands and into his. When he aimed for the can, you fought the instinct to cover your ears with your palms.

“Sounds backward, but the more you tense up, the more you’re going to flinch.” He demonstrated a slack, secure grip with both of his hands folded around the gun. Joel held it like it was an extension of himself, the pistol sitting almost comfortable against his fingers. “Once you set your target, you just gotta commit to it. Look here.”

He gave a quick nod, then raised his chin to level his sight with the top of the gun. You stepped back as if it would do any good to lighten the sound of the shot. Sure enough, the bullet sliced the can clean through, sending it tumbling behind the stump. Joel clicked the safety on the pistol, shoving it in his belt to go and set another piece of scrap metal on the wood.

“Give it another go.” He held the gun out to you and you gingerly took it in your hands. Immediately, you had forgotten the grip he’d shown you. Your hands fumbled around the base for a moment, until one of his snaked underneath. “Remember. High on the backstrap. Lock your wrists, not your fingers.”

He gently guided your hands into place, tapping on your thumb to signal for you to grip inward. Your fingers flexed against the barrel, and he added, “it’s not supposed to be comfortable, but it should feel stable.”

Eventually, you found the position of your hands that most resembled what he’d demonstrated. Joel backed away to give you space and your breath shuddered in your chest before you swallowed it down. You brought the barrel up to your line of sight, settling on the new can.

A deep breath in, a deep breath out, and your finger slid down from the cage to rest on the trigger.

Squeeze, don’t pull.

The sound of the shot made your ears ring, but that didn’t matter so much as the heat that spread through your chest and bubbled up in your throat. You switched the safety on the gun and let it rest idle in your hand, taking in the view before you.

An empty stump, a dented can with a whole in its side lying at its base.

“There you go, sugar. Told ya you could.” That mile-wide grin was back. His hand cupped your shoulder, closer to the back of your neck than anything. “Reckon with some practice you’ll be just as sharp as any of the rest of us.”

Your eyes lingered on the can. “Holy shit.”

“Wasn’t so hard, was it?” His fingers danced along the base of your skull.

You scrunched your eyes. “How much more ammunition do we have?”

“Enough to make sure you’ve got the hang of this.” Joel’s hand moved down between your shoulder blades, playfully tapping. “Now hurry along and put another can up there. Don’t wanna be late for dinner. Mateo says he’s making gumbo.”

“Out of what?” You smiled almost as wide as Joel.

“Got no idea,” he chuckled. “Sure as hell can’t wait to find out, though.”

The sun was starting to dip behind the hills now, painting the sky with orange and pink and purple and red. As the light faded, your confidence grew. Each crumpled can made Joel’s grin brighter, made the weight in your shoulders a bit lighter. By the time he was leading you in to grab a bowl of food, you felt more alive than you had in years.

Maybe you could ask him to drag you along.

#Joel Miller #The Last of Is #Joel the last of us #tlou #TLOU hbo #TLOU fic #the last of us hbo #Masterlist #that good old way

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innytoes · 2 years ago

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Sleepy time prompt 24 for Caleb/Ray/Reggie? (because I miss them)

-anotherfantom

"I can hear you thinking."

Ray opened his eyes to find his husband gazing back at him, half amused, half concerned. "Sorry," he whispered. Reggie was curled fast asleep between them, his face tucked safely under Ray's chin. It was a few days after his heat, after Caleb had found him rooting around their laundry to find something, anything that smelled like them.

They'd had a conversation about that, about how of course Reggie was always welcome in their bed. Thankfully, the man had taken them up on that, shyly crawling between them and then practically melting when they wrapped him up in their embraces.

"Talk to me, darling," Caleb said. ''What are you worrying about?"

Caleb knew him better than anyone at this point. He always knew when Ray's thoughts just couldn't stop, how they would keep tumbling around and around in his head if he didn't get them out. Still, part of him didn't want to share these ones, in case he set something in motion that he'd regret.

"It's nothing," he said, avoiding Caleb's eyes.

"Ray," Caleb said, soft and firm and oh, he was so in love with this man. Reminding him with just one word that of course he could share anything with his husband, that they made a promise on their wedding day. For better or worse.

"Did we move too fast?" he asked, even though he felt incredibly guilty just asking, for putting these worries on Caleb.

"Are you not happy?" Caleb asked, concerned.

The thing is, he was. He was so happy. They hadn't been with Reggie long, but he just... they clicked. He fit. And every day, he could see him unfurl a little more, open up a little more, like a flower slowly blossoming, and it was the most beautiful thing in the world to see.

"I am," he reassured Caleb. "I just... I know we talked about it, theoretically, some time in the future. But I never stopped to ask you if... if you wanted this. We never really discussed it." Caleb had just seen him, seen the look in his eyes, and had drawn up the paperwork while Ray was just... talking to Reggie.

"Would you have preferred leaving Reggie in that place for another month, visiting him, talking it through?" Caleb asked, already knowing the answer. "Dearest, we'd both agreed this was something we wanted. We just hadn't put a timeline on it. And when I saw you two together, I knew it was right. I'm sorry if I didn't stop to talk to you first."

Between them, Reggie snuffled a little, before nuzzling closer, nose pressed against Ray's scent gland. He took a deep breath, thought warm and happy thoughts. He didn't want to wake Reggie up because his scent was distressed.

"Do you remember what you told me about the signs?" Caleb asked. Ray flushed. He was pretty sure Caleb didn't believe in the fact that he thought Rose sometimes sent him signs.

But how else could he explain that Caleb brought him dahlias on their first date? Even though he was more of a classic red roses kind of man, and Ray was more of a tulip guy himself. He'd rang the doorbell, just as Ray had been taking out his phone to call the date off, to apologise and say he wasn't ready, because he couldn't stop thinking about Rose and how he was moving on from her. And then there Caleb was there, with a big bouquet of dahlias, and Ray knew everything was going to be okay.

"Yeah," he whispered, choked up.

"He was playing one of Rose's songs, Ray," Caleb said. "Not just any, he was playing my favourite of Rose's songs. It was a sign. He was meant for us."

Oh. He hadn't known that. Caleb never minded when he put on one of his Rose and the Petal Pushers CDs, but he didn't know he had a favourite. He sang along to a few of them, but...

Reggie had been playing Like Magic. Ray chuckled. Of course that was Caleb's favourite.

"I love you."

"I love you too," Caleb said, scooting impossibly closer, his hand covering Ray's where it was resting on Reggie's hip. "Now go to sleep."

"Yeah," he agreed, closing his eyes again. This time, sleep was easy.

#the caleb/ray/reggie abo au #fanfic #calebxray #calebxrayxreggie #I wrote a thing #julie and the phantoms #don't think about Caleb in the studio talking to Rose #promising he'll take care of Ray and thanking her for the opportunity #and then doing the same after they bring Reggie home #they love each other so much

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iamthewaybook · 3 months ago

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Christian Faith Book

In today’s fast-paced and chaotic world, many people seek deeper meaning and purpose in their lives. For Christians, the path to true fulfillment is often rooted in faith, and a connection with Jesus Christ. One such book that guides believers on this spiritual journey is "I Am The Way", a powerful Christian faith book that delves into the teachings of Jesus Christ, offering a roadmap for personal and spiritual growth.

This blog explores the significance of "I Am The Way", how it enriches the Christian faith, and why it’s a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their relationship with God.

The Heart of the Christian Faith: Jesus as “The Way”

The title of the book, "I Am The Way", is drawn from one of the most profound declarations made by Jesus Christ in the New Testament:

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” – John 14:6 (ESV)

This single verse encapsulates the essence of the Christian faith. Jesus proclaims that He is not merely a teacher, a prophet, or a spiritual guide – He is the way to God. His life, death, and resurrection provide the path to eternal salvation. By focusing on this truth, the book encourages readers to anchor their lives on Jesus, the only way to experience a fulfilled and meaningful spiritual journey.

Why "I Am The Way" Matters in Today’s World

In the modern world, where there are endless distractions and competing philosophies, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. As Christians face challenges to their faith, both internally and externally, "I Am The Way" offers a much-needed reminder of the core principles of Christianity: the love, grace, and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

The Core Themes of "I Am The Way"

"I Am The Way" is more than just a theological text; it is a call to action for believers to live out their faith authentically. The book focuses on several key themes that resonate with readers and challenge them to grow in their faith.

1. Faith in Christ as the Foundation

One of the central themes of the book is the importance of faith in Jesus Christ as the foundation for a Christian’s life. Through an in-depth exploration of scripture and personal reflection, "I Am The Way" encourages readers to place their trust in Jesus, believing in His promises and relying on His guidance.

Faith is not simply about believing in the existence of God – it’s about having an active relationship with Jesus. The book emphasizes the importance of daily communion with Christ through prayer, worship, and studying the Bible. It shows how faith can be transformative, helping believers navigate the ups and downs of life with confidence and peace.

2. Repentance and Renewal

Another key message in "I Am The Way" is the importance of repentance and spiritual renewal. The Christian journey is one of continual growth, and part of that growth involves recognizing our shortcomings and turning away from sin. The book delves into the concept of repentance, not as a one-time event, but as a daily process of surrendering to God’s will and seeking His forgiveness.

Through heartfelt reflection and biblical examples, the book teaches readers that repentance leads to spiritual renewal. It is through turning away from worldly distractions and sinful behaviors that we can fully embrace the life God has designed for us. "I Am The Way" reminds us that no matter how far we stray, Jesus is always ready to welcome us back with open arms.

3. Discipleship: Following the Example of Christ

"I Am The Way" also emphasizes the importance of discipleship – following the example set by Jesus in His earthly ministry. Jesus didn’t just preach about the Kingdom of God; He lived it. Through His love, compassion, humility, and obedience to the Father, Jesus modeled the kind of life that Christians are called to imitate.

The book explores what it means to be a disciple in today’s world, where materialism, self-centeredness, and distractions can easily pull us away from our spiritual goals. It encourages readers to take up their cross and follow Jesus daily, putting others before themselves and seeking to glorify God in all their actions.

4. Living with Purpose

A recurring theme in "I Am The Way" is the idea that life has a greater purpose when centered on Jesus Christ. Many people go through life feeling unfulfilled, searching for meaning in worldly achievements, relationships, or possessions. The book points readers to the truth that true purpose and fulfillment come from knowing and following Jesus.

By embracing the truth that Jesus is the way, believers can discover their unique calling in life. "I Am The Way" encourages readers to seek God’s will and live with intentionality, using their gifts, talents, and resources to serve others and advance the Kingdom of God.

The Power of Personal Testimony

One of the strengths of "I Am The Way" is its use of personal testimonies to illustrate how the teachings of Jesus Christ can transform lives. The book includes stories of individuals who, after encountering Christ, experienced a profound change in their perspectives, behaviors, and overall approach to life.

These personal accounts serve as a powerful reminder that the Christian faith is not just an intellectual exercise; it is a lived experience. Jesus is not a distant figure in history – He is alive and active in the lives of believers today. Readers are encouraged to reflect on their own spiritual journey and consider how Jesus has impacted their lives, just as He has impacted the lives of others.

Scriptural Foundations and Deep Theological Insights

"I Am The Way" is grounded in scripture, with each chapter offering deep theological insights based on the teachings of the Bible. The book takes readers on a journey through key passages of the New Testament, particularly focusing on the words and actions of Jesus during His ministry.

By diving deep into the scriptures, "I Am The Way" provides readers with a rich understanding of the biblical principles that underpin the Christian faith. The book doesn’t shy away from difficult questions, offering thoughtful answers to issues like suffering, salvation, grace, and the nature of God’s love.

Strengthening Faith in Times of Doubt

In a world filled with uncertainty, it’s natural to experience moments of doubt or question one’s faith. "I Am The Way" addresses these challenges head-on, offering comfort and reassurance to believers who may be struggling with doubt.

The book encourages readers to hold fast to the promises of Christ, even in the face of trials and difficulties. It provides practical advice for nurturing faith, such as cultivating a regular prayer life, surrounding oneself with a supportive faith community, and trusting in God’s timing.

A Guide for Spiritual Growth

Spiritual growth is a lifelong process, and "I Am The Way" serves as a guide for believers at all stages of their faith journey. Whether you are a new Christian seeking to understand the basics of your faith or a mature believer looking to deepen your relationship with God, this book offers valuable insights and practical steps for spiritual growth.

The book is structured in a way that makes it accessible for group study or individual reflection. Each chapter includes questions for personal contemplation or group discussion, allowing readers to engage with the material on a deeper level.

Embracing the Truth: Jesus Is The Way

At its core, "I Am The Way" is a powerful declaration of the truth that Jesus is the only way to eternal life. In a world where many paths are presented as equally valid, the book boldly affirms the unique and exclusive claims of Christ. It reminds readers that while other philosophies may offer temporary comfort or satisfaction, only Jesus can provide the peace and fulfillment that our souls truly crave.

Why You Should Read "I Am The Way"

If you are seeking a deeper understanding of your faith, or if you long to experience a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, "I Am The Way" is a must-read. It will challenge you to examine your life in light of the gospel, encouraging you to embrace Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life.

This book is not just for Christians who want to grow spiritually – it’s also for those who may be searching for answers about life’s meaning and purpose. "I Am The Way" offers the hope and assurance that can only be found in a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Conclusion: A Life Transformed by Faith

In the end, "I Am The Way" is more than just a book; it is a journey into the heart of Christian faith. It invites readers to not only believe in Jesus but to live in the reality of His presence every day. By embracing the truth that Jesus is the way, we can experience a life of joy, peace, and purpose, grounded in the love of our Savior.

If you are ready to embark on this journey of faith, pick up "I Am The Way" and let it guide you toward a deeper relationship with God.

#Christian Faith Book

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