#but i doubt they’ll be clear enough so this would still be so lovely of someone to do

[mrsriddlenott]

~Teach Me, Please~

Bsf!JJ Maybank x Innocent!Reader

Warnings: oral(m&f receiving), bit of a handjob, praise kink, spit kink, innocent reader but she’s lowkey in control, reader kinda gets bullied in the beginning but not directly. Not proofread.

{masterlist}

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“She’s like their little sister,” you heard the kook girl you didn’t recognize laugh as she spoke about you, “She follows them around like a groupie, JJ most of all. It’s like she doesn’t know what to do with what she has, I would be flirting non-stop if I was with him as much as she is. JJ is absolutely delicious.”

“I think they’ll always be just friends,” her equally annoying friend giggles, the pair clearly not noticing you behind them or simply not caring, “I mean look at how innocent she is, I doubt she would know how to please him if she had the chance. She has literally never had a boyfriend, she probably has never given head in her life and JJ gets around a lot he has plenty of better options. Hell he probably doesn’t pay enough attention to even notice her raging crush on him anyway. You should definitely go for it tonight, I’ve heard he’s good.”

You huffed, stomping off back towards the couch you had left JJ on. What annoyed you the most wasn’t the shit talking, you knew people talked, especially kooks who somehow had nothing better to do. What hurt was the accuracy. Despite being the same age as your fellow pogues, and knowing JJ and JB since the third grade, you were still very much innocent. Especially when compared to your ragtag group of friends.

You knew they didn’t mind, they all loved you no matter what. Kie helped you as much as she could but it was pointless, you just didn’t know how to be as laid back as them. You had fun and loved to party as much as they did, but you still preferred a nice night in with a movie. And while part of you used to worry you held them back, they made sure you knew you could always come to them. So when you saw JJ wave you back over with a questioning look in his eyes you knew you could ask him to help you with anything.

And your crush on him had totally and absolutely nothing to do with that decision.

“Will you teach me how to give a blowjob?” You blurt out, dropping onto the couch infront of JJ’s outstretched arm as though everything was normal. He gagged on the gulp of beer he’d just taken before looking to you with wide eyes, trying to decipher if he heard you properly.

“What’d you jus’ say?” His voice was breathless as he wiped his face of spilt beer, your eyes tracing the droplets that escaped down his neck.

“I want you to teach me how to give good head.” You stated, stretching the words to make your intentions clear. You watched JJ’s eyes bounce between your eyes and lips, the gears in his brain working overtime to decide if you were joking or not.

“Like- uh.” JJ starts, his voice strained while he needlessly wipes his mouth again, spreading his legs on the coach and making room for himself and letting his knee touch yours, “Like on what though.” He arches his eyebrow to look at you, not wanting to be presumptuous but wanting nothing more than to help you directly.

JJ would be lying if he said he hadn’t thought about you like that a million times. He wanted you, he just never admitted it out loud because he thought you deserved better. He messed around and acted out while you and John B cleaned up after him but over the years he started to notice a distinct difference in his feelings for Jonh B compared to those he had for you. However, he decided long ago he wouldn’t act on any of them unless you did first, he couldn’t risk ruining you because you were just so good.

“On you Jay, come on don’t make me feel weird about it.” The whining tone of your voice makes JJ bite his lip, unsure if this was ethical. JB would surely frown upon this and Kie would probably kill him for corrupting you. But he was having a hard time fighting the urge now as you looked up to him with pleading eyes.

“Well I don’t wanna take advantage of you or anything, y’know?” He stutters over his words slightly as he fumbles to find anything to say, making you giggle in that way he loves so much. You had never once seen JJ flustered or worried about a girl asking to suck him off and you honestly couldn’t believe it was you who got that honor.

“But I asked you to show me JJ, I want you to teach me.” You beg him, turning your body on the couch to face him fully, placing a hand on his exposed bicep.

And his resolve snapped.

He tossed his half full beer can aside as he stood, not caring where it landed. His hand took your own hand, gently but assertively pulling you up with him. He held onto you tightly, not wanting to lose you while weaving through the crowd in the Chateau making the way to the bedroom he made his. You caught sight of the first kook girl in passing, noticing the way she tried to catch JJ’s eyes only to be ignored. Her face contorted in surprise and disgust while you laughed softly before JJ was yanking you into his room and locking the door behind you both.

“C’mere,” JJ instructed, waving two fingers towards him. When you turn to him he’s facing away from you, grabbing a pillow from the top of his bed and tossing it on the floor at his feet. The bed creeks from his weight flopping onto it, manspreading while watching your slightly shocked and confused face, unable to hide his smile. “Come on, y’wanna learn or not.”

Your legs carry you to him, anxiously messing with the hem of your dress now that you can make out the bulge in his shorts. “Are you sure you want to do this?” His voice draws your gaze back to his and you can see the excitement whirling behind his blue eyes dropping you to your knees carefully, leaning into the comfort of his pillow.

“Thanks for the pillow,” You whisper, locking eyes with him from between his legs, “I didn’t know guys did that, I’ve never seen it in the porn I watch.”

“You watch porn?! Oh my god this keeps gettin’ better.” JJ groans with a smile, knocking his head back and letting you watch his adam’s apple bob, “I’ve never done it before, I just didn’t want you to bruise your knees.”

“Good to know I’m special.” You laugh awkwardly, wiggling with excited and nervous energy where you leant before him. He released an airy laugh above you, looking down at you again, his pupils dilated.

“You have no idea,” JJ’s voice was breathless and his words caught in his throat slightly, “Do you wanna get started on our lesson Princess?” JJ asked teasingly, running his fingers down your warm cheek, stopping to lift your head up by your chin. You nodded, shell shocked as you stare up at him unable to force your mouth to form words.

“I need you to tell me,” He whispered, leaning forward slowly until his lips ghost against yours, “If I’m going to finally corrupt you I need you to ask Cupcake.” Your eyes fluttered shut, taking in his scent as your heart rapped against your ribcage.

“I want you Jay….T-to teach me, please.” Your eyes flick open just in time to catch a wicked grin spread across his face before your cheeks were cupped in his warm palms, tugging your lips into his in a heated kiss. Your sighs mingle together, finally exploring what you both silently desired for so long. His tongue danced across your bottom lip asking for entrance as you gasped letting his tongue fight yours, forcing a moan from you that vibrated against his lips. He pulled away slowly, spit connecting you for a second before you’re licking your lips subconsciously. JJ observes your furrowed eyebrows and the redness flooding over your skin as your eyes stay closed in obvious pleasure.

“Still with me Gorgeous?” JJ asks, tapping your cheeks lightly, smiling excitedly as he watches you look up at him. His painfully hard erection rubbed against the zipper of his shorts as he adjusts his hips. Leaning back and resting his weight on his forearms, his crotch looming in front of you, your wide eyes telling him you have no clue how to start this. “Put your hands on my knees,” He instructs, shivering under your touch when you listen immediately, your cool hands resting against his steadily warming skin, “Good girl, now I want you to slowly move them up, like you’re not sure you want to take my pants off yet, tease me y’know?”

Your breath hitches at his praise, and he notices. You whimper as you try and follow his instructions drifting your hands across his broad thighs and letting your fingers tease under the fabric of his shorts, “You like being my good girl don’t you?” He asks, his voice teasing only slightly, his breathy voice making your thighs clench, rubbing them together desperate for friction.

“Yes, I do,” His eyes immediately catch onto the movement of your thighs, biting his lip while he watches you wiggle in front of him. He twitches in his shorts at the thought of you getting off to his pleasure, moaning loudly when he takes your hand in his pressing your palm directly into his bulge. Using his larger hand to move yours to perfectly cup around him and uses your palm moving it against his shaft as he swallows, desperately trying to collect himself.

“K-keep doing that until you’re ready,” He sighs, letting you continue at your own pace, moving his hand up to your hair to fix it, not wanting it to fall into your face as he watched your features for signs of distress, “When you want to unbuckle my belt and-“ He gasps cutting off his sentence when your fingers immediately jump to hastily undo his belt. Your shaking hands struggle for a few awkward seconds before you’re tugging his shorts down his thighs exposing his black boxers. JJ lifts his hips to let you discard his shorts fully, tossing them aside as you stare into his eyes triumphantly, “Good girl.”

Your wide smile as your hands tease their way back up his naked thighs just as he taught you has him reeling, practically shaking with excitement. “You like being praised, don’t you Mama?” He asks, tugging his lip between his teeth when your fingers find his cock again. He tugs your hand upward, moaning when he presses your hand into his tip, stopping your movements entirely until you respond.

“Yes Jay.” You whine, your tone impatient as you wiggle your hand under his, making him release a breathy moan laced with a laugh as he releases your hand, letting it continue it’s excited exploration of him. Your free hand started to sneak it’s way up his body, making him jolt forward as your cold hand found it’s way into his shirt.

“Who do you wanna learn this for?” JJ blurts out, not entirely wanting to hear the answer as he tugs his shirt over his head impatiently. Closing his eyes as your nails dig their way back down his chest, part of him wondering how you knew he’d like that.

“Myself.” JJ feels the smile grow back on his face, relief flooding his body as he opens his eyes, locking onto your wide gaze looking up to him expectantly. You want his instructions, and he wants to draw this out.

“So there’s no one in that precious mind of yours right now?” He asks, letting his eyes fall down your face, gazing at your wet lips before eyeing your cleavage and wiggling hips. Trying to suppress that part of him that wants you to stay here like this forever.

“Well,” You giggle, palming him through his boxers just over his tip, loving the way his head falls back with a moan when you apply more pressure, “Right now I have you on my mind Jay.”

“Fuck, you have no idea what that does to me,” He smiles towards the ceiling, imagining all the times he came in his hand to this exact scenario, “I thought you were too good for me, why’d ya ask me?”

“Some girls at the party were talking about me, calling me your groupie and saying I wouldn’t know what to do with you if you ever gave me the chance, and I really wanted a chance.” You sigh, drifting your hand down his toned abs to tease the elastic of his underwear, letting it snap against his skin as your excited eyes find his again.

“Oh Princess,” he cooed caressing your cheek, “You have always had the chance. You were the first girl I ever imagined doing this for me.” His eyes went wide when he realized what he had said, almost backtracking before you interrupted him to speak.

“Good, because I can’t imagine anyone else teaching me, I trust you, I want it to be you.” You state simply, locking your eyes in his gaze and taking not of the hitch in his breath. In a spurt of confidence you’re tugging his boxers down his thighs, eyeing his thick, throbbing cock as it bounces free, eyes meeting his again in a beg, “Tell me what to do Jay.”

“First give the tip a kiss Baby,” You do as your told, touching your lips against his hot, red tip as it leaks precum onto your lips, “Mmm, fuck now get your tongue nice and wet and lick up the middle, when it feels right slide my tip against your tongue n’suck on it like those Cherry suckers you’re always begin’ me for.”

You laugh, suddenly feeling more and more confident as you watch him come undone above you. “Is that what you want Jay? Or are you goin’ easy on me?”

“If you think you can take me in one go do it Princess, but don’t think I’m pressuring you,” He sighed, watching your tongue wet the side of his pulsing cock, “I want you to go at the pace you’re comfortable with.”

You smile up at him as you separate from him, letting spit coat your tongue before moving to lick up the prominent vein popping out of the other side of his cock. He groans above you, subconsciously moving his hips closer to your mouth in uncontrollable excitement. As your lips caress against his red, leaking tip you slowly let spit drip from your lips onto him, watching as it drips down him and pools in the bit of trimmed hair at his base. His eyes pop from his head when you bring your hand up to spread your saliva over him, pumping your hand slowly and twisting it like you’d seen in videos. You watched his furrowed eyebrows, buying yourself time to work up enough spit in your mouth to take him fully. His lips tug into his teeth as his hips stutter upward into your hand.

“Where did you learn to do that?” JJ gasps, stuttering and twitching in your wet hand.

“Porn.” Your sickly sweet voice has him moaning and tugging at your hair, forcing you’re eyes up to his.

“You’re so fucking perfect.” He states before slamming his lips into yours, moving you back by your hair wrapped around his fist. You gape up at him wide mouthed, your hand speeding up when his eyes bounce between your open, drooling mouth and your blown out eyes as though asking for permission. You nod your head to him, not sure what he wanted to do but okay with it nonetheless. His free hand jumped to your chin, tugging your mouth open wider before leaning down and spitting directly onto your tongue. Rolling your eyes into the back of your head as you moan you shiver in front of him at the feeling of his spit mixing with yours, unknowingly helping you in your previous goal.

JJ chuckles at your reaction, moaning slightly when your hand speeds up again. You savior the feeling of his spit in your mouth for a second, your eyes latching onto his as you smile wickedly. JJ only takes a second’s pause before his eyed widen watching your mouth dip lower, his fingers subconsciously tightening in your hair, moving his other to grip the bed and ground himself. Breath fills your lungs from your nose, prepping yourself before teasing his tip with your tongue for only a second before you slowly slide him into your mouth. His hips jolt forward subconsciously, shuddering breathlessly when your eyes meet his over your lashes again. JJ curses under his breath, watching you take almost every inch of him in one go, sliding your head down his shaft, resting your hand at his base when you can’t fit anymore.

JJ moans loudly when you swallow around him, jerking his hips into you desperately trying to control himself, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” you cut him off quickly, shoving your head as far down as you can go, feeling his tip twitching in the back of your throat as you gag around him. You pop your head up, dragging your tongue against the underside of his shaft, moaning at his taste and sending vibrations through him. You suckle on his tip, preparing yourself as you gasp for breath around him. You start to bob your head up and down him, swirling your tongue as you go dropping low enough to feel his pubes tickle your cheeks, his hands moving to the back of your head to tug your hair into his fingers.

“You’re a natural,” JJ sighs, “Feel like imma cum already Gorgeous, fuck.” Gazing up at him you watch his eyes try and stay open, try to maintain eye contact until they flutter shut when the tip of your tongue grazes his ballsack unintentionally. JJ subconsciously pushes your head down, pulling a moan from you as he groans into his bitten lip, hooded eyes watching you intently now as he tugs you off of him with a pop. His hand stays in your hair, his eyes watching the way your spit dribbles down your chin, mixing with your lipstick and contrasting the black mascara running down you cheeks.

“I want you to try something, but only if you’re comfortable okay?” You nod to him desperately, ignoring the fact that your hair’s probably a mess in his hand, “Flatten out your tongue f’me,” His voice was demanding but soft still, a side of him you had never seen before beginning to come forward, “Yea, good girl just like that,” He says as he watches you stick your tongue out for him, spit dripping down the middle and directly onto is erect cock, “Now lean down and suck on my balls Sweetheart.” Your eyes went wide watching how he bobbed infront of your face. “If you don’t want to that-“

A shiver runs down his spine and directly into his rock hard cock when your warm tongue drags against his heavy sack before you suck one into your mouth, his hand tugs into your hair harder instinctively as he shudders. His shaft twitches against your face, your tongue swirlly against his salty flesh, tugging off him with a pop. You look up to him, makeup dyed spit dripping off your chin and down your chest, “Like that?”

“Yes yes just like that,” He gasps, desperation laced in his tone, immediately making you drop your head back. Sucking his other tight ball into your mouth, swirling your tongue while he shakes you slowly move your hand that was supporting your weight on his knee under your dress, circling your clothed clit with two fingers. Moaning around him as your eyes flutter shut feeling the wet patch seeping through your underwear.

“Open your eyes and look at me,” JJ growls when he catches your hands movement, his hand caress your face gently contrasting his hard tone. Despite wanting to listen your eyes stay shut as you speed up your fingers movement, “Thought you said you liked being a good girl, now listen to me.”

Letting your eyes flicker open you feel your cheeks heating up even more when you catch his gaze. His blue eyes only egg you on further, your fingers speeding up subconsciously while he stares at you with a smile. Breathing through your nose you continue your mouths exploration of him, popping your mouth off of his flesh only to immediately suck his tip into your mouth again. JJ’s hand tugs your hair into a ponytail as you bob your mouth on him, his tip hitting your throat each time making you gag and moan on him. The vibrations of your noises make his hips jolt uncontrollably, his body and dick twitching together as your spit pools on his groin and slips down his thighs.

He releases a loud needy groan when you force your mouth off him, his hand falling from your hair and clutching the blanket below him, mumbling incoherently while trying to ask why you stopped. He whines loudly gasping and gripping the bed so hard his knuckles turn white when you drag your wet tongue from the middle of his ballsack directly to his tip. Moaning when he twitched against your face, sucking him into your mouth while you eye his adam’s apple bobbing. Sensing he was close you stop your fingers with a whine around him, moving in order to move your hands to support yourself on his knees as you suck your cheeks in. You drag your mouth down his shaft and JJ whimpers, shoving his hand into your hair and tugging as he cums down your throat, filling your mouth as you moan.

“Fuck I’m so sorry, I didn’t have time to warn you, do you need’ta spit?” He asks, trying to ignore the tingle running down his spine at the sight of his cum dribbling past your lips.

“It’s okay,” You state simply licking your lips clean, the sweet tone in your voice not changing despite the more than inappropriate circumstances, “Your cum tastes so good Jay, look I swallowed it already.” You stick your tongue out to him, showing what little residue remains as he groans above you again.

“If you need anymore lessons, you can always, and i mean always, come to Papa Jay.” His breathless voice makes you laugh as you hop up to sit next to him on the bed.

“Do you wanna take my virginity too.” The burst of confidence making him cum gave you almost wears off at the look of shock that grows onto JJ’s face.

“Damn Mama, you are so fucking bold tonight, you have no clue how many times I have imagined you asking me that.” He smiles at you, his large ring clad hand gripping your thigh as it sits beside him, “Wanna tell me how long you have been fantasizing about your best friend poppin’ your cherry?”

“Forever.”

“Mmmhmm, that’s what I wanted to hear.” JJ groans, pulling your thighs apart and shoving you backwards letting your dress ride up. He rolls over you, settling over you where you lay on his bed, framing your face with his arms. “I think it’s your turn right now though don’t you?” Shivers run down your spine at his tone, subconsciously trying to rub your thighs together earning a teasing laugh from JJ. You brace yourself on his waste, tugging him closer to you as his lips crash into yours, tongues immediately starting to fight for dominance only for him to win with a groan.

“We should save your first time until there’s not a dozen people right outside the door.” Lowering his voice to a whisper as he lightly digs his hips into you, “And I think we need to have a conversation before we….move forward.” Letting his lips graze your neck as he keeps going he smiles at your gasps of appreciation, “But don’t think I don’t really, really want to right now.”

JJ’s teeth tug at the spaghetti strap string of your dress as he crawls lower down your body, letting it snap back against your skin with a sigh, “You’re so fucking gorgeous, so perfect I can’t even look at you sometimes.” The warm feeling of his tongue against your collar bone has you bucking against him desperately, hissing when his teeth nip at the exposed flesh of your breast.

“I love when you wear this dress,” JJ moans against your skin, his head falling low enough to push his face into your chest for a few seconds, wiggling it around dramatically, making you laugh before be continues his decent, “I don’t wanna take it off.” He groans, biting at your flesh through the fabric.

“Then don’t.” You say breathlessly, smiling down to him as you tangle your fingers into his hair. He smiles back to you, quickly pushing himself down the bed the rest of the way so he was face to face with your exposed thighs. With a quick flick of his wrists he flips the hem of your dress up, exposing your damp matching underwear.

“You matched your underwear to your outfit? That’s so cute.” JJ groans, dipping his head to bite at the flesh of your thigh as his hands slowly work their way up your thighs. He pulls back, watching intently as he slips his fingers past the lace hem of your underwear, tugging them down as you lift your hips to help. You watch him as he tosses your underwear behind him, his eyes meeting yours for a second seeking consent as he shoves your thighs further apart, putting you completely on display for him. JJ licks his lips as he eyes you, moving his hands slowly under and around your thighs resting them on his shoulders before shoving your hips down with his large palms. He groans loudly as he bites into the flesh of your thigh beside him, slowly licking his way to your center and leaving a wet trail behind.

His hands hold your hips down hard as they jolt upward with your moan and laughs into you happily. Eyeing the way your head falls back, your chest rising and fallen he quickly speeds up his tongues pursuit of your clit. Watching you as one hand hangs above your head and the other plays with his hair, JJ can’t think of anything that looks better.

“Oh my god,” You yell, the feeling of his tongue flattening against you, slowly licking back and forth over your clit before quickly sucking it into his mouth. You scream a moan at the sensation, tugging at JJ’s hair aggressively not caring if anyone outside the door can hear your pleasure. “Do that again Jay.” JJ’s lips pop off of you into a smile, his lips glistening with your release before he drops his head back into you. Flicking his tongue aggressively against you as he licks up your slit, groaning at the feeling of your nails against his scalp when he sucks your clit into his mouth again. JJ can feel himself growing hard against the blanket at your taste, your shaking legs egging him on as your release quickly approaches.

The feeling of JJ’s tongue prodding at your entrance as you clench on nothing has the tightening feeling in your abdomen worsening, making you whine and wiggle your hips subconsciously. The grip of JJ’s hands on your hip tightens, his nails digging into your flesh as he grinds himself into the mattress at your excitement. He plunges his tongue into you, collecting your juices on his tongue with a desperate groan, his eyes flickering shut as he moves to flick his tongue against your puffy clit again. JJ pulls back quickly making you whine and tug at his hair, trying to shove him back into you and forcing a wicked laugh from him as he spits directly onto you and dives back in. You shudder when he starts to lap against you wildly, your hips jolting and your back arching, your hands tugs on his hair harder as you cum, the almost painful band in your abdomen breaking in a euphoric release. Moaning so loudly you know for sure anyone close enough to the door could hear but you didn’t care as you came undone on your best friend’s tongue, breath shaking as your body twitches.

JJ’s tongue slows, pushing himself up to get a better look at your post orgasm face, your eyes unfocused and your mouth open in gasping breaths. He slowly crawls up your body, smiling in your face and you smile back at him the best your can, he groans at the sight of your sweaty cheeks, your hair sticking to your forehead as he smash his lips into you. The taste of yourself lingers on his tongue as you both moan into each other.

——————

I might wanna do a part 2 of this for their first time, would anyone be interested in that?

Another Lesson? (Coming Soon)

[wanderingmausoleum]

would anyone who has access to the elden ring character models be willing to do me a huuuge favor and get me some images of the stormveil banner/tapestry godrick wears across his back at the start of his cutscene? or even better, grab the texture used for it/the banners hanging around stormveil?

it’s hard to see the full pattern and i’d love to get a clearer picture of it for cosplay purposes!

edit: thank you tarnussy for providing these great screenshots 🫶🫶

[aliesbienish]

A study of wolves

Paul Lahote x Reader

Part two (part one here)

“It’s lovely to meet you all, and thank you for being so welcoming.”

Paul’s mind was racing a hundred miles a minute. Here you were, the supposed perfect woman for him. And he never had wanted this. He had deemed imprinting as an anchor. Another knock to his freedom. Yet even the idea of walking away seemed to make him physically sick.

Paul caught Sam’s questioning gaze and gave a quick shake of his head. He may not be able to walk away but her certainly wasn’t ready to bare his soul to this virtual stranger, however her smile made him feel.

“So [y/n], what’s first for the study,” Emily questioned, breaking the silence that had fallen over the group.

“The wolf population in the area isn’t well documented, so first thing will be exploring the area and trying to find signs of their territory. From there I can set up motion activated cameras to try to work population and observe behaviours,”

“Oh, we weren’t aware of cameras, how exactly do the work?” Sam almost sounded a little nervous.

“I’ll set them up facing areas that look like frequented wolf paths. They’ll then capture photos and videos whenever they detect significant motion, including during the evening. Obviously they’ll be a lot of other animals or even false shots due to the wind but hopefully we’ll see some gray wolves.”

“Will you let us know where they’ll be set up so we don’t disturb them?”

“Don’t stress too much, they’ll likely be far away from the village so I doubt you’ll come into contact with them. But I can definitely let you know the coordinates, and I’m sure one of you guys will be with me when I set them up otherwise I’ll never find my way back.”

“Coordinates would be great. You mentioned starting heading out of Monday, is that still the case?” Emily questioned.

“Absolutely. Sam agreed to be my guide for the day so all going well no rescue team will be needed,”

“Actually [y/n] I completely forgot that I have other work to do Monday, but Paul here has agreed to be your guide. Isn’t that right Paul?”

You looked up to the man beside you and caught him shaking his head at Sam. Noticing you caught him it was quickly changed to a nod paired with a guilty smile.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Monday came around quickly. Your first two days were spent unpacking your relatively few belongings and exploring the small reservation town. You’d need to head into the nearby town of Forks soon to stock on groceries as the shop on the reservation only held the basics. But for the mean time sandwiches and toast would at least keep you going.

This morning you were woken by your alarm just before sunrise. The air was fresh and getting out of bed was a mental battle, but you couldn’t help feel excited. Today was officially the first day of your adult life. What you had been working on throughout college, even throughout school.

Your backpack was packed full with equipment and layers of clothes. Enough fore mentioned sandwiches for both yourself and Paul were also stuffed in. Maps were also tucked in just in case your phone, and the two battery packs you were also bringing, didn’t hold out. Turns out you had an inner Girl Scout after all.

Your phone ticked over to 7:30am just as there was a rap on the cabin door. Opening it revealed Paul. The man was impressively pulling off the cargo pants and green polo combo; the official but sparingly used uniform of the Quilliete Tribe. Blinking back into focus, the smirk on Paul’s face was a clear indicator that you had been caught.

“Morning,” he laughed. “Here” he thrusted a coffee into your hand. You almost hugged him in appreciation, before remembering the man is practically a stranger. The cabin had been only equipped with the basics, no kettle or coffee machine in sight, another necessity to find in Forks or even further afield.

“My hero! Where did you even get this?” You sighed appreciatively.

“Sue’s cafe. One and only on the Res. It’s hidden behind the school and not on maps so I’m not surprised you haven’t found it yet,”

“Damn, can’t believe I missed it on my walk yesterday, went right passed the school and everything. I thought I was a blood hound when it comes to coffee, how disappointing”

“Calm down Lassie, im sure you were just having an off day. Ready to get this show on the road?”

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Paul’s truck was a comfortable ride as you headed out of town. You debated taking your car but after it’s cross country marathon you’d declared that it needed a little rest. That and you’d wanted to get used to the gravel roads before you chauffeured around attractive men on them. Plus then you wouldn’t a) get the pleasure of teasing Paul on his lack of manners when you paid for petrol on your work card later and b) see how his muscles flex every time he shifted gear. If the wolves fell through you’d happily spend six months studying the path of his tendons across his biceps.

Your first site wasn’t too far from La Push. An area of cliffs along the ocean was the last known sighting of a gray wolf in the area so it seemed like a good place to start your survey. You didn’t expect to cover too much ground, especially as you got the hang of it. Instead you wanted to be meticulous, examine the ground for wolf tracks, excrement and remains of prey.

You were going over the mental list of what to be on the look out for when the car pulled to a halt.

“Alright boss lady we’re here. You ready for this?”

“Absolutely.”

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧ ✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

Next chapter

Am I getting a little caught up in the idea of doing an ecological study like this…absolutely. So I had no real intention going in about making a long multi chapter story but that feels like where this is head. Is that something people are interested in, or do you prefer short and sweet??

[jexnkookie]

BTS: In the Secret (Idol! Jungkook x Reader) [Chapter 5]

Summary: Big Hit announces a new season of In the Soop with a twist; one lucky Army is going to join the members for an entire summer of filming, picked by a random poll. You were selected, and ready to have an amazing summer. But what happens when you win something else that's a bit more complicated; the heart of the group's maknae?

Rating: M (18+)

Chapter Warnings: None.

Tag List: @cassies-cookies @hoeinthehouse @jjeonjjk7 @kaitieskidmore97 @laylasbunbunny @leetha43 @rrosiitas @whoa-jo @1-in-abillion 

While you were sleeping, Jungkook did what he did best when he needed to clear his head; he boxed. After slipping on his gloves and getting into position, he let it all out on a punching bag. Again, his thoughts settled on you; how you felt in his arms, how you gazed at his lips like he gazed at yours, giving him a glimmer of hope that just maybe you wanted to kiss him, too. He needed to get you alone again, and away from the cameras. 

It was something he had thought about while working out. All the cameras on the property were filming every move the members made. Of course, that’s what everyone signed up for. No surprise there. But that means everything will be up to view soon, and Jungkook didn’t know what would be aired, and what wouldn’t. Would their short-lived game of truth or dare, where you gave Taehyung a quick kiss, be seen by fans? Or your movie day together? What about him carrying you to bed? He hoped not, knowing how some fans react to just a dating rumor. He didn’t want you to be on the receiving end of one of those storms. Whatever heat he got, he could take it, and would take it, if it meant protecting you. 

So he continued thinking; how can he get you away from the other members, and away from the cameras, to have privacy with you? How can he keep this a secret, while still properly confessing? A grin came to his face as he hatched an idea, but he’d need a little time to think through the details. That wouldn’t be now, however, as you walked into the door of the gym. 

“Hey.” You greeted him with a wave. “I’m so sorry I fell asleep. That was so embarrassing, and I feel awful.” 

“Don’t, it’s ok.” He said, his voice going soft once again, as became a habit around you. “You were tired.” 

“And um…thank you, for bringing me to my bedroom.” You blushed, walking closer to him as he had paused his workout. “That was really sweet of you.” 

“Any time.” He smiled.

Figuring out where to move the conversation to, because you didn’t want to stop talking to him, you glanced to his boxing gloves. 

“Y’know, I’ve never boxed before.” You smiled. “It looks fun, though.” 

“I can show you.” He grinned, always ready to play. Jungkook began removing his gloves, before raising his sparkling eyes to yours. “Here, put these on. They’ll probably be too big but it’ll work for now.” 

Standing very close to you, he helped you put them on, as you had never done so before. You felt as though you couldn’t breathe, and like your heart had paused in your chest. How is it even possible for someone be that beautiful? He stood tall over you, and you wanted him to put his arms around you so badly. Little did you know, he wanted to, as well. He focused solely on your gloves, but being so close to you and feeling your eyes on him made him more nervous than he’d care to admit. He wanted to lean down just enough to kiss you, but he knew it wasn’t the right time. 

Not yet. Not in front of the cameras, and not on the property. 

He had an idea, and he wanted to stick to it. 

“Ok!” He smiled. “I’ll show you how to throw a punch, then you’ll hit me.” 

“I don’t wanna hurt you!” You laughed. 

“I really doubt you’re going to hurt me.” He teased, smirking at you. 

“We’ll see. I can be mean!” 

“I seriously doubt that.” Jungkook giggled. “Let’s get it, c’mon!” 

You threw punch after punch, while Jungkook blended teasing words with encouragement. He loved your competitiveness and playfulness, as it matched him so well. He thought to himself, as he was laughing with you, how easy it is just to be with you. Although you were a fan, that’s why you were selected, you treated him like a normal person. Someone to joke with, someone to just hang out with. He felt like he never had to try around you, and he appreciated that you didn’t seem to try hard to impress him, either. Everything just felt so natural. 

“Alright, Kookie, I’m taking you down this round.” You giggled through deep breaths, collecting yourself. 

“Yeah?” He grinned. “You’re confident?” 

“Mhm.” You hummed. “Watch.” 

With that, you went back in with a fierceness, making him smile and coo to himself, watching how you were trying so hard but still couldn’t even knock him back. Moving in closer to him, you both began laughing as it was clear that this was going nowhere for you. Jungkook “fought” back, moving forward towards you, making you back up despite your cute complaints. (“No fair, you’re bigger! I’m punching above my weight!”) Without paying too much attention, caught up in the fun you were having together, you were backed against the wall, trapped by Jungkook. 

“Fine! You win!” You laugh, throwing your head back to the wall. 

Jungkook was somehow even closer than he was before, with your body resting against the wall. While you both caught your breath, grinning over your silliness, Jungkook’s hand instinctively came up to brush strands of hair away from your face as your eyes were gazing into his. 

You stared at each other for what felt like hours, just enjoying being close. The moment felt fragile, as though if either person moved too quickly, it would shatter. 

“Hi.” He whispered, breaking the silence. 

“Hi.” 

“I…” Jungkook started without really understanding what it was he needed to say. “That was fun.” 

“Yeah.” You smiled warmly, biting your lip nervously before adding, “I like hanging out with you.” 

“Yeah?” He grinned. “I like hanging out with you, too.”  

And just like that, it was present again; another fragile moment. Eyes glued to each other, butterflies in his stomach, and a racing heart in your chest. Words that you both weren’t quite sure how to say, or if you should say them, lingering in the air, making the room feel heavy. The  attraction was immediate, but now the spark is glowing, as well. It was something you both knew, but didn’t understand how to approach it. 

“I, uh, think we may need a shower.” Jungkook said softly. “Before Yoongi-hyung finishes dinner.” 

“You’re probably right.” You smiled, sighing internally that the moment couldn’t last. 

“You go first. I’ll clean up here, and meet you later, ok?” 

“Ok.” You replied. You looked over his features one more time before leaving for your guesthouse. 

Jungkook was grinning uncontrollably, feeling electric from the interaction. He knew he couldn’t mess this up with you, but he needed to tell you how he felt. There was something between you two that was almost magnetic, drawing him to you in ways that felt unreal. He understood he needed to act, but it needed to be private and personal, and just right. 

He quickly reached for his phone, and looked for the answer to one question; 

How long until a lake clears after a flood? 

A week passed, and it seemed to fly by. You had discussed your favorite records with Yoongi, painted a bit with Taehyung, beaten Jin at Mario Kart (much to his dismay), and gossiped over drinks with Jimin. The latter of which you increasingly became closer with, thanking multiple glasses of wine and late night conversations for that. 

“Are you single?” Jimin asked. It was 4 a.m., and the cameras were turned off for the night, allowing you to speak more freely. 

“I am.” You responded. “Honestly, I wouldn’t have come if I wasn’t. Spending a summer with 7 men alone… I don’t think a boyfriend would appreciate that, you know? What about you?” 

“That’s true… And, me too.” He said. “The last one, I don’t know… we just didn’t work out.” 

“I’m sorry to hear that.” 

“It’s ok. It’s in the past now.” Jimin smiled kindly. “Can I ask about you?” 

“My last boyfriend?” You rolled your eyes at the memory. “I broke up with him. We just never had any fun together, you know? It grew stale very quickly, like we were stuck in this routine, and he took himself too seriously to try anything new.” 

“He doesn’t sound like your type.”

“Yeah?” You grinned at his response, pouring more wine. “What do you think my type is?” 

“I think you like someone you can have fun with.” He stated, leaning back into the couch, a mischievous look gracing his features as if holding in a secret. “I think you’d like someone who can make you laugh and who will play with you, but he can also be sensitive and take care of you.” 

“You almost sound like you have someone in mind for me.” You giggled. 

“Not really.” Jimin smiled, looking down at his glass. “Just guessing.” 

At the end of the week, Jungkook had come to your bedroom door, knocking to wake you. It was late; late enough where the cameras were turned off and the other members were sleeping. You furrowed your brow wondering who would be coming to get you at this time, and why. 

“Jungkook?” You whispered. “What are you doing?” 

“Y/N, I have a surprise for you,” He whispers, his eyes somehow dazzling in the dark. “Should you choose to accept it.” 

“You make it sound like a video game side quest, Kookie.” You giggle. “I accept. What is it?” 

“Put on some shoes, and come with me.” He responded with a boyish grin. “I have something to show you.” 

You did as you were told, and Jungkook led you though the dark to the ATV on the property. Attached to it, somehow, was a bottle from Yoongi’s whiskey stash and a blanket. You were suddenly thankful for the cover of the night, because you could feel your cheeks blushing as you gathered what he could be up to. 

“Get on, and hold on tight to me, ok?” He explained. “I found something I think you’ll like.” 

After getting onto the back of the ATV, you got comfortable and hugged him tightly from the back. Jungkook smiled at the feeling of your arms, and he hoped it was the first of many times he’d feel you wrapped around him. He took off, checking to make sure the members and the staff weren’t paying attention, and took you down the road. The drive was short, and you wondered what Jungkook could’ve possibly found, as you were in the woods. 

But as he drove up to what seemed to be a perfect, private oasis, your eyes grew wide. Tucked in a cleared spot, there was a lake with the moonlight reflecting off the cool water. It was peaceful and serene, with only the occasional sound of crickets breaking the silence. 

“It’s the lake that the staff members mentioned may flood.” Jungkook explained as he helped you off the ATV. “I wanted to bring you here for a few days, but it needed to clear first.” 

“This is so pretty.” You said.  

“Come on, let’s go sit down.” He said, carrying the blanket and the wine. 

“I feel like a teenager.” You laughed as Jungkook spread the blanket on the ground. “Sneaking out of the house late with a boy, stealing alcohol from the kitchen.” 

“We’re rebels.” Jungkook laughed. You sat next to him, and he popped open the bottle of wine. “Meaning we drink from the bottle, too…and totally not because I forgot to grab glasses.” 

“I love this.” You giggled. “Thank you for bringing me out here. This is nice.” 

“Anytime.” He replied softly. “I’ve been thinking… this could be our place, y’know? If we need to get away from the cameras, from the set, we can just come here.” 

“That sounds amazing.” You said. Jungkook looked over at you, admiring your features and how they glowed in the moonlight. “Oh, look! We can see stars so clearly here.” You laid down on the blanket, and Jungkook followed. 

“I can see… the moon.” Jungkook joked, making you laugh. “I don’t know much about stars.” 

“Tell me your zodiac, and I’ll show you where it is.” You smiled. 

You began pointing out to Jungkook where his corner of the sky was, and where yours was alongside it. While you spoke about stars, Jungkook had some of his own in his eyes, hanging on every word you said. The atmosphere of the lake, the red wine buzz you both felt, and your sweet voice right next to him made him so, unbelievably happy. You spoke about his corner of the sky, but he felt like this little place he found was meant for both of you. Your little corner of the world. 

“Hey.” He whispered, cutting you off softly. 

“Hey.” You whispered back. 

“I…” A brief pause, but unlike that day in the gym, he knew what he needed to say. “I just want to tell you, that I meant what I said. The day I met you, I said you were so pretty. It’s true… I think you’re beautiful.” 

“T-Thank you.” You stuttered, blushing profusely at his gaze and attention.  

“Can…Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.” 

“The day we were watching a movie, and the day we were boxing… I felt something.” Jungkook explained nervously. “I felt a.. I don’t know, a spark or something, if that makes sense. Did you… Do you…” 

“Yeah.” You smiled warmly. “Yeah, I feel it, too.” 

Once again, a fragile moment appearing. The warm, summer air feels heavy once again, and a rush of vulnerability passes through. The quiet part weighs on you both now that it’s been said out loud; he feels something for you, and you feel it to. Not love, not yet. Not enough to dive in head first. But enough to be a promise of something, or the hope of an exciting possibility. 

“Can I kiss you?” Jungkook asked, gazing down at your lips. You nodded your consent, and he slowly brought his hands to your waist, pulling you in closer to cuddle with him on the blanket. He brushed a strand of hair out of your face, just as he had done back at the main house, but the action felt different this time. More real, knowing its intention. 

He smiled, as did you, at the tension of the moment. 

Then, he leans in, eyes closed. You closed yours as well, anticipating the touch. He lingers nearby, nerves taking over, but Jungkook wouldn’t miss his chance. His lips grazed yours, before connecting fully. Your hands came up to touch his chest softly, encouraging him to go just a bit further. So he did, deepening the kiss and savoring how your lips locked with his for the first time. 

After spending some time together, feeling high off of whatever this connection was, you both knew you needed to get back before the members and staff realized you were missing. Jungkook packed up and drove you back, but noticing the time and knowing the cameras hadn’t turned back on quite yet, he took your hand in his to walk you back to your bedroom. 

“Please get some rest, ok?” He whispered, leaning in close again, not able to get enough. “I’m sorry I kept you out so late.” 

“It’s ok.” You smiled, reaching up to wrap your arms around his shoulders. 

“Y/N, listen.” He whispered, his tone more serious as he placed his hands on your hips. “I don’t want either of us to feel pressured by anyone about this… about us. I don’t want anyone jumping to their own conclusions about us before we even know for sure what we are. I just want us to spend time together, y’know? So when the cameras are on, and the members are around, let’s keep it between us.” 

“Ok.” You said, your voice a bit sad. 

“Hey, Y/N, c’mon.” Jungkook cooed, pulling you in close to hold you. “Trust me, I want everyone to know about this, but just not yet. I’m not hiding you, I’m protecting you. I promise. Please, just trust me.” 

He looked down at you, giving you a soft, slow kiss and feeling relieved when he felt your smile. 

“Goodnight.” You whispered, before turning towards the door. 

“Goodnight.” He replied. Jungkook struggled to let you go, wanting to hold you in his arms longer, now that he actually has you. 

You reached for his sweatshirt that night, wearing it to bed like you had done so many nights before. But somehow, it felt softer than ever. 

Next Chapter Coming Soon...Thank you! x

[kingkatsuki]

He just wants to be good enough for you always🥺

Warnings: fluff, reader has a mum and dad.

Pairing: Bakugou Katsuki x f!reader.

Word Count: 1.1k.

You know how he feels.

It was the same feeling that bubbled inside your tummy when you were meeting his parents for the first time. Feeling silly for being so nervous the minute you stepped through the door as you were welcomed into a fierce hug by Mitsuki. A large photo album strewn over both your laps as Masaru offered you some homemade dorayaki.

“It ain’t the same thing,” He scoffs, staring at his reflection in the mirror as he pulls his tie out of its loop to start all over.

“How is it not the same?” You laugh from your position at your vanity, stroking your clear gloss against your lips as you watch him struggle with his tie again.

“They need to know that I can take care of ya,” He pushes, cursing under his breath when he looped the tie.

There’s something that convinces him that he’ll somehow never be good enough for you. The self-doubt and insecurity that’s plagued him since childhood rears its ugly head for situations like these— situations that have your usually strong and confident boyfriend reduced to that same terrified little boy.

“They know you take care of me, baby.” You turn in your chair to face him.

“I ain’t even number one yet, and they need to believe I’m good enough to look after their little girl?” He drops his tie in exasperation as it sits around his neck.

Standing up from your position at his vanity as you make your way over to him. Cupping his hands in your smaller ones as you lace your fingers together at your sides. Squeezing reassuringly as you practically feel his heart pounding against his ribcage, brows furrowed as you smile up at him.

“They won’t care about any of that, Katsuki.” You coo, feeling how sweaty his palms have become from preparing to meet your parents, “All they’ll care about is that you’re treating me well, and that you’re a good man.”

“A good man that leaves you for weeks at a time.” He scoffs.

It’s always a sore spot in your relationship when Bakugou has to leave for work. The best missions always seem to be the ones that take him further away from home than either of you would like. The biggest boosts to his hero ranking always seem to mean the longer trips, phone calls and FaceTimes at unsociable hours the things that keep you both close. But he always keeps his promise to return back to you safely, little gifts from the destination that reminded you of him.

“You do what you have to do, and I understand so they will too.” You reach your hands up to his forgotten tie. Slowly wrapping the fabric around to begin to loop it, pulling it through as he keeps his crimson gaze on you, “There’s no one else for me, Katsuki. Never will be.”

Bakugou would steal the sun in the sky for you if he could, submerge the entire world into darkness if it meant that only you could see it’s glow. There isn’t a single thing he wouldn’t do for you, and if only everyone could see that. The scrutinising tabloid articles and online posts still attack his character, wondering how a man as bold and brash as Dynamight could ever love anyone. But he proves it to you daily, through his words and actions.

You’d found a good one in Bakugou Katsuki, the perfect man. And you’d spend every day fighting his corner if you had to.

“Do you think I should bring that award I got last week? I think it might show your parents that—”

“Katsuki,” You cut off his rambling, shaking your head, “They don’t need to see that to know you’re successful. And I’m pretty sure my mum’s shown an article about that to all of her friends already.”

“I just want them to know that I can look all after ya,” He continues, “Even though my last mission ran over.”

A three week mission had turned into six after Bakugou had discovered the villain he had been tracking down was at the centre of a huge drug ring, the extra three weeks had meant taking down the entire operation but it had meant leaving you alone for Christmas— when he was first supposed to meet them.

“They understood, Kats.”

“I think your ma was pissed.” He scoffs.

“Not as pissed as yours,” You laughed, “She spent the entire evening complaining about it when I dropped off our gifts for them.”

“That old hag,” He shook his head, “She still goes on about that, you know. Doesn’t matter that I jumped up fifty points because of it.”

“No matter what happens— I love you, so they will too.” You smooth your palm along his chest to lay his neatly tied tie down flat against his dress shirt. His hand reaching up to try and tug at the uncomfortable collar as you grin up at him. Standing up on tiptoes to steal a kiss before wiping your gloss from his lips with your thumb, an action that’s halted by him licking his lips to taste the sticky sweetness as he pulls his head back.

“You’re such a dork.” You laugh, shaking your head as you turn around to check your face in the full length mirror.

“Yeah, but I’m your dork.” He hums, wrapping his arms around your waist as he settles his chin against your shoulder.

“Yeah, you are.” You smile, resting your hands on his arms as he sways you side to side, “But I hope you’re ready for my mum to grill you about when we’re having kids.”

“Our ma’s together are gonna be a fuckin’ nightmare.” Bakugou groans, hiding his eyes in the curve of your neck as you start laughing.

“I’d expect nothing less for our relationship.” You smiled, “I’m still recovering from your proposal.”

“Oi,” Bakugou’s arms tightened around your waist, “It ain’t my fault that villain ruined the perfect fuckin’ proposal.”

[akookminsupporter]

ARE YOU SURE?!: MY THOUGHTS ON THE EIGHTH EPISODE AND THE SHOW IN GENERAL

I know I might be sounding a bit repetitive, but I seriously can’t believe AYS is over. When it was announced and we saw it would last for weeks, it felt like such a crazy long time, but now it seems way too short. It’s just not fair! I want more!

The last episode was the perfect depiction of that final day of your holiday—one you don’t want to end for a million reasons. For Jimin and Jungkook, that last day was their last ‘Freedom Day’ (dramatic, I know!), so it makes sense that it felt a bit melancholic.

I have no doubt that Jimin and Jungkook are just like they were in AYS in their private lives. Even with cameras around, they felt more natural, more themselves. AYS didn’t feel like a show made for us; it felt like they were entertaining themselves and just decided to share it with us.

I loved the last episode because, as I’ve said non-stop these past weeks, I adore how relaxed it was. The slow pace of everything they did, the lovely domesticity—it’s honestly the main reason I love AYS so much. In this last episode, they seemed more laid-back, and Jimin appeared a bit more melancholic, which is totally understandable. I loved that they got to watch the first episode of the show and laughed as much as we did watching them have fun together.

They really tried all sorts of food on the show, and honestly, I hope they paid for it all with the agency's card, haha!

Jimin and Jungkook are incredibly similar in so many ways, yet also different—they’re uniquely the same if that makes sense. They get each other’s jokes, meme references, video clips, and songs. They understand each other's looks and unspoken words; it’s amazing to see. AYS showed us why they never get bored of each other and why they often say they spend hours talking. While others take a break or rest, they’re off playing, chatting, and laughing together. That’s why AYS didn’t feel forced or like just another job for them. It explains why they obviously enjoyed making the show and why they decided to keep filming after they wrapped in the US, even though that wasn’t the original plan. It also explains their comments about wanting to do something similar in the future—12 more seasons, according to Jungkook!

AYS didn’t confirm that they’re a couple or that they’ve been married for 40 years with 30 kids, but it definitely reaffirmed just how close Jimin and Jungkook are. It showcased how different their dynamic is compared to their relationships with other members, especially when Tae was around. If there’s one thing that should be clear after this, it’s that. The fact that they chose to enlist together should be the biggest confirmation of all, but I know for many, that’s still not enough.

AYS was perfect in every sense, from start to finish. I would’ve loved for them to talk a bit more about their decision to enlist together and even about making the show, but then again, it’s Jimin and Jungkook, and there are things they’ll never discuss. It’s frustrating, understandable, and a bit funny all at once.

I’m really going to miss waiting every Thursday for a new episode. I’m going to miss seeing all the different reactions to the same clips on my timeline. I’ll miss the comments on everything new they did and the joy of discovering another layer of Jimin and Jungkook’s relationship. But most of all, I’m going to miss Jimin and Jungkook. I reckon unless they’ve got more things planned, we won’t see them until June 2025. Sure, there are the behind-the-scenes bits and the concert DVD from Seoul, but…

The last clip we saw in the episode, the day they enlisted in the army, was a bit of a shock, and I felt it was a bit cruel of the editors to do that, haha! But at the same time, it was a realistic way to end the show because that was the conclusion of it all, right? The final destination for Jimin and Jungkook. The lovely thing is, they made that journey together, and even after that ending, they’re still together.

I can’t wait to see Jimin and Jungkook in 2025. I’m so curious to see how their dynamic changes after military service. I feel like if they were unbearable together before, they’ll be even more so after!

All I can say is thank you. Thank you, Jimin and Jungkook, for such a beautiful gift. AYS confirmed that seeing you happy makes me happy, and while that just highlights the parasocial relationship I have with you, I also know I’m in this for life.

I can’t wait for 2025!

Note: Here's my list of favourite episodes with links to the posts with each reaction and conclusion:

Second Episode

Sixth Episode

First Episode

Eighth Episode

Fourth Episode

Seventh Episode

Fifth Episode

Third Episode

[mlmxreader]

When Your Head's Too Loud | Nikto x gn!reader

『••✎••』

↳ ❝ Angsty time with prompt number 30 “You were right, you were so, so fucking right and I hate it” and 34 “I love you, I really do” where reader is so frustrated of Nikto who doubting himself about not being loved in fact everyone actually love him and care for him. ❞

: ̗̀➛ Nikto's head gets loud often, but there is one person he can always trust.

: ̗̀➛ swearing, mental illness, depictions of d.i.d, saneism and ableism

•───────────────★•♛•★──────────────•

Nikto often doubted himself, doubted that those around him actually cared from him, and part of it was due to his Dissociative Identity Disorder, as he was often told that he was alone in the world and that nobody actually liked him, not even you.

It would usually make him stow away from everybody else, hiding out in the woods where you had first told him that you loved him, amongst the tall and towering trees that you would often climb and the thick bramble bushes that tugged him closer to their embrace.

Near the small running stream that was usually a murky olive colour, deep and dull green as it kicked up sediment and moss; the sound of it rushing would calm him, and drown almost everything else out.

Nikto knew that he shouldn’t have isolated himself from everybody else, he always got an earful about how unhealthy it was; but it made him feel safe, and it made him feel better.

Insecurity was not a new friend of his; even before the development of his disorder, he had always been taunted on the playground - the ugly kid. Billy no mates.

He had been picked on and kicked to the ground far too many times; a dog that had been beaten by its master to the point of giving up and giving in.

Nikto knew that his career was on thin ice, mostly because nobody wanted to work with someone like him; they called him names, and made comments about his disorder and how it made him violent, unpredictable… you never did, though. You never once did any of that.

His teammates trusted him, of course, but they still held some caution around him; the only one who ever truly let their guard down near him was you.

You would be completely at ease at his side, but for some reason, he still doubted himself. He would always still doubt himself.

Even now, as he sat up in his cot and looked around, he could feel your breath against his hip from where he had pushed himself up, and he could feel your arm lazily draped over him; he grabbed his mask, fixing it on quickly before taking a deep breath.

His eyes were wild and frantic as he heard them talk.

“No one likes you, you know.”

“Nobody can ever trust you - do you really think they’ll ever see you as anything but a psycho killer?”

“That’s all you’ll ever be to them - why do you think they keep calling people psychopaths? They don’t care about people like us, especially not you.”

“Stop it,” Nikto murmured, shaking his head. “Stop it. No, no. We are not- we are okay.”

You stirred upon hearing his voice, rubbing your eyes as you yawned and sat up, your hand coming to his shoulder as you blinked to clear the sleep from your eyes. “Nikto? Why are you wearing your mask?”

He glared at you, shaking his head again. “We’re not…”

“Not what?” You hummed, tilting your head to the side. Your voice still thick with sleep. 

He swallowed thickly, the sound audible and loud against the quiet, isolated room. “We’re not good enough for you. We don’t deserve you, never have.”

You scoffed, flopping back down and taking his mask with you. You held it on your chest, smiling as you traced it gently with your fingertips. “Like I give a fuck. Did you forget that I have plenty of blood on my hands, too?”

“You were right,” he muttered, although not to you. “You were right, you were so, so fucking right and I hate it. We’ll never be loved…”

You cleared your throat as you gently smacked the back of your hand against his bicep, drawing his attention to you again. “I love you, I really do, Nikto. I don’t… I don’t let my guard down around many people, but you? I love you enough to never feel unsafe when you’re nearby… even if I’m being shot at.”

He grumbled, slowly lowering himself down so that he was laid next to you, pressing his temple to yours. “You sound almost angry…”

You shook your head, stealing a quick kiss as you sighed. “I’m not angry, just… sometimes, when I hear you talk like that, it’s kinda frustrating - you can’t see yourself the way I do, you can’t see how much you make me laugh when you tell your shit jokes. You can’t see how much my heart races when I get to see you after a day apart. You can’t see how handsome you are… I adore you, every inch and every atom. I adore you… and so, so many of your teammates love you like a brother, they might not adore you like I do, but they do love you, and all of us care about you unconditionally.”

“You mean that?” Nikto asked quietly.

You nodded, leaning into him. “Forever and always. I wasn’t… I wasn’t gonna ask you until we went to your house during our break, but…”

“But?”

“But, would you marry me?” You asked softly. “And I don’t mean it out of pity - I’ve been thinking about asking for a while, now, and… just seems like the right time.”

Nikto nodded, cracking a smile. “I would.”

“I don’t have a ring,” you admitted with a soft laugh. “Can I give you a bit of barbed wire, instead?”

He nodded. “In the morning.”

“Alright,” you smiled, stealing another kiss. “Next time you have doubts… do me a favour? Just wake me up, please. I don’t want you to suffer in silence thinking… y’know.”

Slowly, Nikto nodded again as he turned onto his side and put his arm over you. “Thank you.”

“You know this,” you whispered. “But if shit’s getting too loud in your head, we can go down to the woods together. I’ll keep out of your space, if that’s what you need. But if we go down together, you won’t get a bollocking.”

“I will,” he told you. “Thank you, my love.”

[youreallyshouldtalkmore]

Kiss from a Rose_Part 3

A.N: A three part series featuring Neuvillette x Reader! 

Genshin Impact MasterList

------

When you woke up the next morning, you did what you always did since Neuvillette turned into an otter, you headed to the bathroom to check on him….

….to find the tub empty. 

The last visage of sleepiness faded away as you stared at the tub, completely empty of water. 

And the last thread that you had trying to hold everything together in such a tumultuous time, snapped.  A sense of panic overcame you. You twisted quite violently, intending on calling for Neuvillette when you bump into something. 

Hard…

You were dimly aware of the soft yet sturdy hands grasping your shoulders. It took you a moment to realize someone was speaking. You blinked dumbly as you looked up, to see your husband Neuvillette gazing down at you, his eyebrows pinched slightly. 

“Y/N, please calm yourself. Breathe, my love. Everything is alright. I am here.” Neuvillette murmured, reaching down to bring your hand up to rest over his heart. 

Neuvillette had been quite surprised when he woke up back in his human form. The water was stone-cold, not exactly ideal, so he stood gracefully, easing the creaks from his newly reformed body before turning and letting the water out. 

As he waited for the water to drain, he eased the door open. He knew you were long since asleep. He should have time to get a shower and dress before you awoke. But he didn’t want to go too far, nor did he want to disturb your rest. However, despite his good intentions, you still managed to start descending into panic anyway. As such, he only managed to slip into his pants before you woke up. 

It took a moment, as you stared at Neuvillette. Then: “Neuvillette?” 

“I’m right here.” 

Your gaze dropped to your hand over his chest. You curled your hand slightly as if you could cup his heart. You could feel the steady beat of his heart, proof that he was okay.  Then you looked back up and with trembling fingers reached up to cup his face. His lavender eyes gazed steadily down at you. 

“Are you…really okay?” You gave him a once over glance before returning back to his face. 

A small quirk tugged at his lips, “Indeed. I am well.” 

“H-h-how?” 

“Perhaps Mr. Lyney wasn’t far off the mark yesterday.” 

You stared a moment before furrowing your eyebrows, “I always kissed your head every night since you've become an otter. I highly doubt that was it.” 

Neuvillette raised an eyebrow, “Oh? Then perhaps it was time gated the entire time? Either way, your guess is as good as mine. I’m only thankful at this point in time, but we have other matters to attend to. Forgive me, Y/N. I know this is moving entirely too fast.” 

“No, no, it’s fine.” You dropped your hands from his face, “The pressing matter is reintroducing you back into society with a story they’ll believe and looking into what turned you into an otter in the first place.” 

“Thank you for caring for the Melsuines while I was…shall we say, incapacitated.” 

You looked at him sharply, “You weren’t dead, Hydro Dragon. You were just an otter. But no gratitude is necessary. I think of the Melsuines as my own as well.” 

At this, Neuvillette gave a fond, soft smile. You were a little taken aback. It’s been a minute since you seen his face, much less when he decided to emote. You cleared your throat and turned away from him. More for his sake than yours. If you had your way, you would be selfish enough to keep Neuvillette to yourself until tomorrow as the latest. But others has been kept in suspense long enough. 

“I’ll tell Traveler and Navia to come over. Between the four of us, we can come up with something. You can finish getting dressed.” 

Before you could step away, two arms wrapped around you from behind.

“I promise. We’ll have time to ourselves soon enough, my love. We deserve that after all this unnecessary drama.” 

“Hm.” You nodded once. 

Instead of letting go, Neuvillette’s hug became a little firmer as he dropped is head to the crook of your shoulder.  He really wanted to forsake the world, if only to prolong this for a moment longer.

Would another day really hurt?

Yet, he had a duty to the people of Fontaine. The ludex of Fontaine going missing was too big of a headline to ignore. But he also had a duty as a husband. He wanted nothing more than to take you further into his arms. Both duties conflicted with one another. 

You reached up with both hands to grasp his arm as you spoke quietly, “Keep this up, and you’ll tempt me.” 

Neuvillette rose his head, “You are mistaken, Y/N. You are the temptation. One that I wish nothing more right now to drown in.” 

“Neuvillette please….” 

He reached over with one hand and tilted your chin. His lavender eyes were smoldering, “I’m at your mercy. Please be kind to me.” 

You snatched away from him with a laugh, “Neuvillette, please! I can’t believe I’m saying this, but you need to control yourself. Now, I won’t tell you again! Get dressed!” 

You all but ran out of the room. You needed to keep it together for a while longer. First, let’s alert the Traveler and Navia. 

Yes, let’s do that. 

—

If the absence of the ludex of Fontaine was a spectacle, the return was nothing less than a circus. At this point, you were happy to let the others do clean-up work, you didn’t really care much for the finer points. You were just satisfied to have Neuvillette back. You knew that Neuvillette and the Traveler had looked into what turned him into an otter, but there wasn’t much to go on.

Strangely, he didn’t really remember how it happened, other than it was in that area. He seemed to remember smelling something weird but nothing else. Traveler did a thorough inspection but found nothing as well. 

It seemed it would remain a mystery to all… 

The first day back, Neuvillette went back to Mersua Village and you went with him. You laughed as the younger Melsuines all crawled over Neuvillette. It was a wonder he wasn’t sitting in a flood of tears. 

Neuvillette took it in stride, perfectly composed as he gave his assurances and hugged and kissed as many wanted it. It was hours before the village could begin to return to some semblance of normal. That was the last time you would see Neuvillette for a long period of time. 

For the next three weeks, Neuvillette had paperwork and trials that had been put on hold, backed up, that he needed to catch up on. You insisted on bringing him lunch and dinner and ate with him, to have a little bit of time together. He even slept in his office to make up for lost time. He was always apologetic, but you should just shook your head with a warm smile. You wanted to make his life as painless as possible. 

Now that Neuvillette was back to normal, you could return to your work at a flower shop. The work kept your mind occupied as the days passed. 

Then one day, just as you were finishing the preparations for dinner, the door open. You furrowed your eyebrows. Who the-?

You peeked out of the kitchen, suspicious, only to be dumbfounded. “Neuvillette?”

“I hope I’m not too late for dinner?” 

“Uh, I was just going to start making my way there.” You had already put everything in their proper containers for the would have been on the go meal. 

Neuvillette gave a small bow, “Forgive me. I would have sent word, but I wanted it to be a surprised, and truly I didn’t know until almost the last minute. Would it be troubling to change the to-go order?” 

“Uh, no problem. No problem at all!” You stated before pulling back into the kitchen to plate everything. 

Neuvillette had disappeared into the bathroom to freshen up before returning, just as you placed the plate of steaming hot food on the table. 

“I managed to get the rest of the evening off. I had hoped to spend the evening with my wife.” 

“You caught up to everything?” You asked as you sat down with your own plate. 

“Define caught up? There is always trials and paperwork I could be doing, but me and my capable staff has managed to get it back to a semblance of normal. Besides, the Melsuines have been antsy….” 

“Oh, what for? Are they alright?” you asked as you both tucked into your food. 

“Oh, yes, they are well. Sedene and the others are concerned that I have been neglecting you. Sedene all but pushed me out the door.”

You laughed once, “Hardly. I understand your work. This was an unfortunately unseen incident that needed to be addressed.” 

“While that was true, it is no longer. The incident has been contained, and we have since come through on the other side. There is time for….other things.” 

You choked and coughed once. 

Neuvillette reached out and touched his hand over yours, “You alright?” 

“Yes, I’m fine. Wrong pipe.” 

“Hm…” 

Comfortable silence lingered as you ate the rest of your food. Once you were almost done, you asked, “I take it you aren’t due back until tomorrow morning?” 

“Tomorrow afternoon. After lunch, actually.” 

“Really?” 

“Hm. Sedene put her hands on her hips and said if she saw me before then, bad things would happen.” 

“Bad things?” 

“I suppose that was her way of trying to coerce me not to show up before the appropriate time.” 

You chuckled. It was a cute rendition of trying to be a threat. “I suppose we don’t want a Melusine revolt.” 

“Indeed not. I shall endeavor to heed her wish…this time.” 

“A good deal.” You stated as you stood and collected the plates before walking over to the washer. You were going to absently start cleaning up with two arms wrapped around you. 

“Those can keep until tomorrow.” 

“Says the one that doesn’t have to do it.” You murmured, but you leaned back into his chest anyway. It didn’t seem like you needed much convincing. 

Neuvillette wordlessly turned you around before grasping your hand. You followed him to the couch before sitting down. He sat only after you did. 

Then he raised his hand and cupped your cheek, “I hadn’t the time to properly thank you for your assistance during this incident. You did admirable to keep everything together and keep it moving. Even in these last three weeks, I hadn’t heard a word of complaint. I know all of this has been hard on you. Please don’t lock yourself away anymore. I’m here now.” 

You shook your head as you lowered your gaze. You blinked. Ahh, now your eyes were becoming wet. You absently shook your head to clear it away. 

Neuvillette lifted your chin, “Cry if you want to cry. I’ve finished my duty to Fontaine for the moment. Now I must see to my duty to my wife.” 

You gave a breathless sob coupled with a laugh, “I don’t…” 

“Hush. You don’t have to keep it together anymore. Not right now.” He leaned his forehead on yours, “I’m here to catch you, my love.” 

Then you were sobbing. All the stress since the start of this incident pouring out. Neuvillette gathered you in his arms, holding you close. One hand stroked your back soothingly while the other held the back of your head. He could feel you shudder in his arms, as you held tight onto him. He wouldn’t dare let go before you did. 

When your sobs died down, you rested in his arms, head on his shoulder. One hand reached up and began playing with his hair. Now you were feeling tired. You hummed as you felt him kiss your forehead. 

“Thank you…” you finally murmured. 

“Such a thing is unnecessary.” Neuvillette returned, using the hand of the arm wrapped around you to tilt your chin. With his other hand, he began to carefully wipe away the tears. He was being so gentle, it made you want to cry all over again. 

“Take as much as you need, hm?” Neuvillette murmured, “As long as you don’t hide yourself. We are on your time now.” 

You couldn’t seem to check your emotions, even though it was clear you didn't’ not have to. You duck your head into Neuvillette’s shoulder, hiding your face from him. Did he know what you felt when he looked at you like that? 

“Perhaps…there is something you want?” Neuvillette asked. 

You shook your head, “I’m just grateful for your return.” 

“Yes, something else, perhaps?” 

“Your good health.” 

“Hm. And?” 

“Your happiness?” 

“Just I want your happiness as well, but right now, if you excuse my being presumptuous, I think there is something else you want above all of that. And lest you are mistaken, it is something I’d want just as well.” 

“Oh?” This time, a smile teased as your lips as you let out a giggle. 

“Hm.” 

Neuvillette tilted your head once again, forcing you to meet his gaze. His lavender eyes had gotten a shade deeper, and your breath caught. You couldn’t break away from his gaze, even if you wanted to. His leaned forward, the mere inch that separated you, lips hovering over yours. Your eyes fluttered. It felt you had kept your emotions in check for so long, that even now you feared letting go. 

“My love, let you catch you.” 

At his whisper, you closed the space, surging forward to capture his lips. 

FIN.

[password-door-lock]

Mystictober Day 27-- Haunted House

Saeran comes with you to a haunted house (1k words).

“You can wait outside, if you want,” you assure Saeran, looping your arm through his nevertheless as the pair of you approach your very favorite haunted house. “I won’t be mad. I’ve been in here alone plenty of times before, you know.” You’re well aware that he knows this already, but you just want to be absolutely certain that you’re not unfairly pressuring him to leave his comfort zone.

But Saeran only shakes his head no before setting his chin with stubborn resolve. “No, my love,” he replies, “I want to get to know the things you like.” You can’t help but admire how lovely he looks in the late afternoon sun, with the October breeze ruffling his hair. 

“I can walk in front if you want,” you offer, “That way, things will jump out at me instead of you. Well, I guess, except for the werewolf. I don’t know if it’s the same actor as the past couple of years, but if it is, he likes to jump out at the people in the middle. I know the girl who plays the mummy— she used to go to my gym— and she told me she goes after people who seem like they would scream, so sorry, but I don’t think you’ll be able to avoid her.” 

“I see,” Saeran is already gripping the back of your shirt, fully prepared to follow you into the house as soon as the attendant gives the go-ahead. “Then I guess I should get prepared to meet with her. Do you have any tips for… how to handle that?”

“She’s not that scary,” you point out, “She doesn’t even have any kind of weapon. At least, not unless they got more money in the props budget this year.” You doubt that this is the case, though. One of the things that you love about this haunted house is the fact that it never changes. It’s impressive that the actors still find ways to scare repeat visitors, and you enjoy returning at least annually to see how they’ll manage to surprise you each time. 

“Is that how mummies usually fight?” Leave it to Saeran to find room for curiosity even in a situation like this. You can’t help but giggle at the idea of a mummy attempting hand-to-hand combat, and evidently, your amusement is contagious, because Saeran cracks a smile as well. 

“Um… depends on the mummy?” You do your best to recall as much as you know about the Ancient Egyptian afterlife as relates to the weapons that the dead might wield. As one would expect, you find yourself coming up a bit short. “I think they get, like, a spellbook called the Book of the Dead? But I think those spells are pretty specific to the journey to the afterlife itself. I don’t know if they have anything that would work against a living human. Maybe, though? Because I know they wrote spells on the walls of the tomb to ward off grave robbers.”

“Darling,” Saeran reaches for your hand and squeezes it, though he’s still clinging to your shirt with his other hand. “You’re so wise. Oh!” The last bit is probably a reaction to the Haunted House attendant ushering the pair of you inside. “Thank you.” Although it’s clear that he’s a bit nervous, he still has impeccable manners. 

Saeran does surprisingly well inside the haunted house. He only screams once (when confronted by the werewolf, who does, indeed, seem to be played by the same actor who portrayed the character in previous years) and that happens far enough away from the mummy that she doesn’t hear, and therefore leaves him alone. Otherwise, he seems to pay very little attention to the monsters that jump out at the pair of you— although, being in front of him, you can’t see the expressions on his face. For your part, you spend the entire trip through the house giggling and laughing, especially when the monsters jump out. 

When the pair of you get out of the house, you and Saeran settle onto a bench to regroup and debrief. “What did you think?” You ask. You were a little bit worried that your partner might not enjoy your favorite haunted house— or haunted houses in general, for that matter. They don’t exactly seem like something that’d be up his alley, but you know how much it means to him that he’s now able to experience a variety of things. It was his decision to accompany you here, after all. 

“I’m happy that I had a new experience,” Saeran decides eventually, “And I’m glad you had fun in there, my love. I liked the way the rooms were designed, too.” He’s choosing his words with care, which makes you suspect that his thoughts are a bit more nuanced than he’s letting on. 

“But?” You prompt. You know that Saeran is well aware that he’s safe to voice opinions with you, but you just want to make it abundantly clear that you’re receptive to feedback from him, even about your favorite activities. 

“But next time, I’ll just get a snack or go meet some ducks instead while you go inside on your own,” Saeran decides with a smile. “I don’t think haunted houses are for me.”

“That sounds good. But… There’s ducks?” Naturally, you are distracted by this revelation. You’ve always come here with a single-minded focus on the haunted house, which, apparently, means that you have missed out on vital aspects of the surrounding area.

Saeran nods, gently patting your hand. “I noticed a couple of them swimming in a pond on the way over here. Did you want to go and see?”

“Okay.” You give his hand a gentle squeeze. “New plan. Let’s get some cotton candy, and then we should go look at the ducks. Did you see what kind they are?” Not that it matters very much— you’d be happy to look at any kind of ducks, and even happier to spend more time with the love of your life.

“I have no idea,” Saeran grins. “But that sounds wonderful, my love. Let’s go.”

[baronessblixen]

O Holy No (4/10)

Today's prompt: Christmas carolers

Summary: Will Mulder and Scully finally kiss? (wc: 1,208)

Tagging @today-in-fic

Mulder is in heaven. Or something very similar to it. He and Scully are running through the deserted Hoover building, giggling like children. Her hand is in his and it doesn’t matter where they’re going because they’re together. And after last night, he couldn’t have known it would turn out this way. As much as he’d hoped for it.

He wasn’t lying when he said he didn’t have a great night. At first, he considered sleeping in his car. It seemed reasonable. There was no way he was going back to his apartment. In case Diana hadn’t listened and was still there. Eventually, he went to the Gunmen who took him in without question and let him sleep on their couch. Except he didn’t sleep. He thought about Scully all night long. Trying to come up with ways to make her see what he was feeling. Just like he had been trying for months.

After their baseball date that one starry night, he was convinced he had succeeded. That was before someone decided to crack his skull open and play hide and seek with his brain. They got through that, too. Once again it was Diana who almost broke them. He doesn’t know what – or who – convinced Scully last night, but he’s thanking every deity in the sky for his luck.

He arrived at the Christmas party with the simplest of plans: find her in the crowd, confess his love for her and hope for the best. The best has happened without him having to lift a finger. He grins, letting Scully lead. That has always been the way to her heart.

“Where are we going?” he asks her.

“I don’t know,” she admits. “Just- away.”

That’s enough for him. They’re standing in front of the elevator, waiting. Their hands till entwined, they turn to each other. They’re both slightly out of breath, but breathing in sync. The smile on Scully’s face is carefree and reckless. He doesn’t know what he looks like, can’t even begin to guess, but he knows he’s full of love for her.

She said she’s scared and he’s taking it to heart. He won’t confess his love for her now, or here. The words want out, but he can keep them inside a while longer. Until she’s ready to hear them and not give him another “Oh, brother”. He knows what she’s feeling. He knows it’s love. He’s seen it in bright colors, has heard it loud and clear when he could read her mind. For now, that’s all he needs.

“Away sounds good,” he says, stepping closer to her. The elevator is taking its time. Standing here in a hallway isn’t the most romantic setting for a first kiss. Her only stipulation though was for them to get away from their ex-partners. What were the chances of Diana and Ethan being there? They could have avoided this if only they’d talked beforehand. But they’ll never learn.

“Why are you smiling?” she asks, sporting a smile herself.

“You,” he says simply. “You make me smile.” She blushes furiously and it makes him hold her closer. Anyone could see them here but so far, she doesn’t seem to mind. He, of course, couldn’t care less who sees them.

“Where is that damn elevator?” she mumbles, slipping from his embrace and pressing the button a few more times. He follows her, needing to be close.

“Hey you,” he says quietly and it sounds loud here with no one around. She turns to him and tips up her face. He’s been reading her expressions for years. He knows this one; it’s impatience. She, too, wants this. Their first kiss. All they have to do is take that last step. But Mulder hesitates. Should he just plunge in or resist and wait until they’re out of here?

“Mulder?” He’s been thinking so hard, analyzing this to death, that he hasn’t noticed how close they’ve come. Like magnets, they’ve drawn close. Their bodies have no doubts or tribulations. They know exactly what they want. Their heads are the problems.

“I can’t wait,” he says, his eyes fluttering shut. Their heads move closer and there she is; he can smell her. Her breath comes fast, and so does his. Their noses bump together in their blind approach and they both giggle. Mulder cracks one eye open to see hers closed, and her mouth open slightly. An invitation. She, too, doesn’t want to wait any longer.

“Ready?” he asks.

“Yes,” she breathes and he can taste the word on his lips. This is the moment. This is it. His heart is hammering against his chest and his whole body buzzes. There’s music somewhere in his head, growing louder and louder. Their lips brush for the first time and then, in that same instance, the elevator dings and the doors open. They jump apart flustered and come face to face with the smiling faces of a group of Christmas carolers dressed as elves and reindeer.

“Silver Bells,” one of them sings, and the others join in, “It’s Christmas time in the city. Ring-a-ling, hear them ring.” Mulder stares at the carolers, dressed in green and red before his eyes find Scully. She’s biting her lip, her cheeks red as ripe tomatoes, and her eyes full of glee. He smiles, touching his lips absent-mindedly. They tingle in anticipation of what’s to come. But first, he takes a deep breath, and when the carolers are back on the chorus, he joins in.

“Ring-a-ling,” the carolers sing and Mulder answers with a slightly out-of-tune “ring-a-ling" of his own. He grins at Scully all the while, and she looks at him as if he’s hung the moon. They may not be kissing yet, but this moment is theirs all the same.

“Hey, you should join us.” One of the carolers shakes his hand after the song. “We’re here for the Christmas party.”

“Maybe next year,” Mulder says. “I have a date.” The whole group turns to look at Scully, who’s slipping away into the elevator, barely waiting for Mulder to join her.

“We need to get out of here,” she says.

“I will follow wherever you go,” Mulder says. The elevator takes them downstairs, and then, a few glorious moments later, they’re outside. “I took a cab here.”

“So did I,” Scully says.

“Should we-” He doesn’t get to ask his question because just then, a snowflake lands on his nose. Then another, and another, and another. Scully lifts her face to the sky, snowflakes catching in her lashes. He’s been waiting for the perfect moment, and he doesn’t know who he has to thank, but he knows he won’t wait another second.

He touches her arm and she turns to him, her mouth turned upwards. He pulls her close and she crashes into his chest. He lowers his head, their mouths meeting halfway. Finally. Their lips moving against each other, their tongues getting acquainted, he thinks he hears music again. But he only smiles, kissing her until they’re both out of breath.

“I’d ask to take you home,” Mulder says, not letting her out of his arms, “but-”

“I’m taking you home with me,” Scully says and it’s settled.

He’s going home with Scully.

[puntointerrogativo]

I’ve been rotating the Loumand divorce in my head - I get why a lot of people find the finale sequence rushed, I wouldn’t have minded a few more minutes spent on it either, but it did work for me because we’d been watching their relationship crumble before our eyes for a good while by then.

To me it goes back to…I’d say the end of S. 2 ep. 3? The Dubai moments in season one are so performative and deliciously ambiguous, especially put into a D/s context. The reveal is, well, ominous. But Assad and Jacob had great chemistry when we first see them together, and then it sort of…fizzled out. And they’re both too good as actors for it not be a choice. They keep stumbling into each other’s traumas and hang ups, always slightly out of step.

One moment we are shown where the chemistry comes to life is the Arun bench scene. They click, it works! But I was expecting the momentum to carry them them forward -in a sort of the birthing pains are over, now things are starting for real way. Yet it never really happens. They keep being out of sync, detached. Neither of them is being entirely himself: Armand has declawed himself to lull Louis into a false sense of security, Louis is pruning away the pieces of himself that don’t fit the Maître paradigm. When there are attempts at connection one of them zigs instead of zagging, and they’re left wanting. We can see the cracks in the foundations but it’s impossible to tell what would have become of their relationship because the coven makes Armand choose (or Armand had already made his choice, since they’re apparently still debating what version they’ll go with.)

And I do find it believable that Armand -with all his history weighting on him- would not feel sure enough of Louis’ love at that point to sacrifice the familiarity and safety of the coven. By the time we come to the restaurant scene -which is…not without its own ambiguities- it’s too late, the choice had been made.

Then we come to present day Dubai and again, the distance is palpable. They have their moments, they can make a great united front against Daniel. They bicker, they finish each other’s sentences. But it’s clear something isn’t clicking, the happy facade is brittle and shallow, there’s a whiff of desperation to it all. The fight about the mixed up photographs was what really rang the bell for me. Because why would Louis’ first reaction be to accuse Armand of doing it on purpose? When you mix that up with Armand’s tendency to be controlling it’s pretty clear trust’s in short supply in that household. It solidifies all the little clues and wtf moments. And right on cue ep. 5 happens and. Well.

From then on it’s fairly clear Armand is and has been clutching at straws desperately trying to keep the relationship from disintegrating completely. What’s less clear is why Louis oscillates wildly between resentment and holding onto the happy couple narrative almost as desperately as Armand. Having someone mess with your memories to hide days of torture and implant ‘all I do is for your own good’ straight in your head should be more than enough motive for divorce, right?

And that’s made exceedingly clear in the tower scene. That relationship has not been about Armand, or even Louis, since Claudia’s death. It’s punishment, for all 3 of them.

Louis wasn’t struggling with the end of a 77 years long relationship or even only with Armand’s conditioning: he was struggling with the trap he’d built for himself.

The finer details didn’t matter for the divorce, it wasn’t about Armand’s motives or his aims because it had never been about Armand in the first place: if Armand directed he wasn’t simply an hapless coward but an active participant with power over the whole ordeal. He was guilty to a degree where he was no longer the lesser evil to be used to punish the presumed instigator.

And personally I think it wasn’t even about Lestat saving Louis in itself: reasonable doubt. Perhaps Louis sparing his life didn’t cause Claudia’s death. It was about Louis extending a bit of grace to himself. It was Louis seeing an out and jumping on it double quick. So long and thanks for all the fish. Buh-bye I’m outta here.

(Also, there’s no way Santiago voluntarily subjected himself to Armand’s direction after having ousted him as coven master. I’m not swallowing that and I don’t think Louis did either :)

[chaoticpuff17]

When the Chips Are Down

part 26

masterlist

hello my darlings! I know it’s been a hot minute since I’ve posted. Life has been crazy. Students have been crazy. I might be losing my mind. We’re defiinitley looking for a new job, but I have a chapter for you at long last. Enjoy!-- Chaotic Puff 

“Is the bride coming down?” Namjoon asked, eyes fixed on his wife as he bounced their daughter in his arms. They had a room full of guests waiting for a wedding, and the bride was refusing to come out. She had locked herself in the room she was getting ready in and wouldn’t see anyone but her sister. 

“If you want her to come out, you’ll have to go and fetch her yourself. She’s not moving.” she quirked a brow, daring him to do it. They both knew that Iyla was going to stay in that room until the last possible moment, and even then someone would more than likely have to drag the bride out. 

“There are guests waiting.” 

“They’ll wait.” 

A bright smile lit up her face as she switched her attention to the baby in his arms whose eyes were in turn fixed on her mother, smiling the little urchin grin that she seemed only to smile for her mother. She laughed as her mother made a face and dove in to place a volley of little kisses on her cheeks. Much to Namjoon’s annoyance, Nara only laughed like that for her mother. The laughter was a new development within the past week or so, but no matter what he tried, she would only laugh, really laugh, for Y/N.

“Why doesn’t she ever do that for me?” 

“Because she likes me better.” she shot back not even looking up as she let their daughter grab hold of her fingers, smiling brightly as Nara played with the appendages. 

A small smile flitted across his features, but quickly disappeared as his gaze wandered down the hall towards where Iyla had barricaded herself into the room she was meant to be getting ready in. They were already running more than an hour behind schedule. Iyla should have been taking pictures with Hoseok by now, but there had been no pictures taken, and he doubted very much that there would be any taken before the ceremony itself. 

“She’ll have to come out one way or another.” 

“I doubt she’ll pick the easy way. This isn’t what she wanted.” The smile fell from her face as she finally met Namjoon’s eyes. “No one wants to walk down the aisle under duress let alone to marry someone they don’t even like.” 

“Speaking from personal experience?” 

“I had an escort of Jimin and Taehyung while I was getting ready.” 

The reminder was pointed, both her voice and her features tight though she was doing an admirable job of remaining neutral. 

Her wedding was a day she remembered very little of. She’d been numb to it, but there were certain parts of the day she did remember. She remembered Jimin and Taehyung plying her with mimosas as she got ready- not enough to get her drunk but enough to keep her calm and pliant throughout the ordeal. She remembered Jackson barging into her dressing room. She remembered Namjoon nearly choking the life out of him during the reception, but for the most part the day was a blur, the memories shrouded in a haze she didn’t really want to clear away. 

She hoped that Iyla would experience her wedding in a similar blur. This wasn’t a day she was going to want to remember. It wasn’t a day that Y/N was going to want to remember either. 

“You look lovely, Jagiya.” 

There was a soft look in his eyes as he looked at his wife and daughter. They made a pretty picture, all done up for the wedding. 

The last time that Namjoon had seen her so dolled up was for the gala. She was softer now, physically and emotionally. Her barbs weren’t quite so sharp. Pregnancy had softened the sharp edges of her body, but motherhood had softened her tongue. She could still level him with a few choice words, but she wasn’t as quick to spit venom anymore. Her glare was just as powerful as always though, potent enough to have grown men quaking in their boots. 

“I should get back to my sister.” she shrugged past his comment and the look in his eyes, uncomfortable with the softness of the moment. They weren’t meant to be soft with each other. 

Namjoon arched his brow. 

“I thought you said nothing would convince her to come out?”

“I’m not going to convince her. I’m going to keep her company.” 

He reached out, hooking an arm around her waist and pulling her and Nara back in. “Or you could stay with me, and enjoy the festivities.” he suggested, looking at her appreciatively. 

She arched a brow in turn, delicately extricating herself from his hold. “I’d rather not. If you’re going to force my baby sister to get married, I think I should be with her.” 

“She will be walking down that aisle, jagi. Whether either of you wants it or not, she will be getting married today.” 

Within a moment the same glare he had been reminiscing about was turned on him in full force. 

“I may be stuck with you, and that was my choice, but Iyla has made no such promises. Maybe she can succeed where I couldn’t.” 

Namjoon stiffened at her words, tensing at the reminder of the disdain of her own situation, a mirror of her sister’s. The past few weeks had been calmer. They had seemingly been doing better since their talk after Iyla’s fitting, but it was easy to lull himself into a false sense of security. It was easy to hope that she was finally coming around, but it was, as always, one step forward and two steps back even if she was teetering closer and closer to the edge. 

“Be careful, jagi.” He scolded, his narrowed eyes the only outward sign of his simmering displeasure. “Someone might think you were unhappy.” 

“Do any of you really think that coercion and kidnapping are a solid basis for a relationship let alone marriage?” She asked, head slightly tilted to the side, genuine curiosity coloring her tone, though there was something deep set and weary underneath it, the same exhaustion she’d been experiencing for some time now. “And Stockholm Syndrome really doesn’t count.” 

With that she turned away, making her way back to the bride and leaving Namjoon speechless behind her. 

“Iya.” she called, knocking softly on the door. “Iya, my love, it’s me. Can you open the door?”

There was a hint of movement behind the door before it cracked open just a smidge to reveal the barest hint of Iyla’s face peering out at her suspiciously. 

“No one’s with you right?”

“Not yet, but they’re getting antsy.”  she admitted as Iyla let her into the room, quickly shutting the door behind her.

Crouching down, Y/N set Nara play on the floor with the toys that were still out from earlier when they were all getting ready. Iyla has since kicked out the stylist and make-up artist and the hairdresser, but the mess was still there. Everything had been left behind in their haste to escape Iyla’s ire. 

“They’re not going to let us hide here forever.” 

“I know.” Iyla admitted throwing a baleful look down at herself, her fists clenched around the fabric of her dress. “I hate this.” 

“I know, and I’m sorry. I wish that there was more that I could do.” 

Iyla shrugged, unclenching her fists. “I don’t think there’s anything either of us could have done. It’s been a series of shitty events that none of us saw coming.” 

The knock on the door pulled both of their attention back to the events at hand. Unfortunately for both of them, there was no way that they could stay insulated in their personal bubble. Namjoon was outside at that very moment, knocking on the door and ushering in the reality of what was waiting for them on the other side. 

Y/N peaked her head out of the door, looking at him expectantly. “What do you want?” 

“It’s time, jagiya.” she sighed heavily, a deep line etched between her brows as he said the words. She knew what he was going to say, but she had still hoped that they might have some more time. “We can’t postpone any longer.” 

To his credit, he kept his tone soft and without demand. He was simply informing her of what was happening only this time he was using all the tact that he so regularly lacked when it came to these sort of interactions. But today he was mercifully soft, possibly even sympathetic. Even if he wasn’t going to stop the wedding, he was going to allow them to grieve for what was about to happen. 

He was more than aware that Y/N was on her breaking point. One wrong move on his part could shatter her entirely. But the right move could tip her over the edge and give him everything he wanted. It was all a precarious balancing act, and in the name of his own self-interest, he could be kind especially after their earlier disagreement. 

“I was under the assumption we had more time.” 

“You knew this was coming, jagiya. The guests have been waiting long enough.” 

“Can we have a few more minutes?” she asked, her own tone just as gentle if not slightly defeated.

“Only a few, and then the ceremony has to begin.” He acquiesced with a nod. 

“Thank you.”

Before he could say anything else, Y/N retreated into the room, closing the door behind her.

Iyla stood frozen in the middle of the room, looking far too young and far too out of place in her wedding dress. 

“Do we have to go?”

It was such a small question, spoken in such a small voice. By all logic it shouldn't have affected her the way it did, but her stomach dropped, clenching almost painfully at the thought of the answer she was going to have to give. 

“I’m afraid so. Namjoon is giving us another minute, and then it’s time.”

As much as she wished she could scoop up her sister and child and take them both far away, she knew that wasn’t going to be possible. Security was too tight, and even if they could slip away, Namjoon would never let them get far, and the consequences of the attempt would be devastating for them both. 

“I’m sorry.”

Iyla flashed a watery smile. “It’s not your fault. You and Jackson both told me to stay put. I’m the one that didn’t listen. I probably should have gone home once I learned that Jackson was dead and you were missing, but I didn’t.”

“I never should have come here in the first place.”

“Well,” she started, wiping her eyes, careful of the lashes that had been placed and the rest of her makeup. “It’s too late for that now, and I guess it’s time to go.” 

Y/N walked over and scooped up the baby from where she had been playing on the floor, settling her into her arms. 

“I suppose we should head out then.”

“This is really happening isn't it?”

Y/N couldn’t say anything. Instead she gathered her sister into her free arm and squeezed her as tightly as she could.

They stayed like that for a moment before Iyla pulled away. 

“Stop. You’re going to make me cry, and I want to walk down the aisle sticking up my middle finger, not a blubbering mess.”

“For what it’s worth, you look beautiful.” Too young. Too out of place, but beautiful nonetheless.

“I’m going to hack this dress to pieces later.”

“I’ll bring the scissors.” 

When they stepped out the door, Namjoon was waiting for them.

“Jagiya.” he greeted. “Iyla. You look lovely.”

“Eat shit and die, you rat bastard.” Iyla smiled sweetly as she returned his greeting as she strode out the door and towards the inevitable.

part 27

[sortasirius]

I’ve been kinda thinking about the finale (as if I ever do anything else) and I have a sort of theory on how it could all play out.

Most of this is spec, some of it is my writer brain, so with that what you will lmao.

With what the 911 on ABC posted on Instagram today, I think it’s fair enough to assume that the councilwoman who was the mother to that guy is about to get involved. That whole thing was kind of just brushed off, and the idea of revenge is being repeatedly being brought up (Amir, even the idea of Doug sort of enacting revenge on Chim while he’s hallucinating), along with the theme of loss and grief (Eddie’s current mess, Amir…again).

I’ve seen several theories saying that she would try to stop Hen and Karen from adopting Mara, and while I can see what they’re saying, I actually think it’s more along the lines of her preventing Hen from being interim captain.

We know something is going to happen to Bobby, with all the stills and bts in the hospital, including the one with the whiteboard that says “R. Nash” on it. And if Bobby can’t act as captain, the usual replacement is Hen, but if Hen is in the midst of this, and the entire 118 is caught up I think it’s plausible (especially with Ryan talking about how Eddie is “isolated” next season) that the councilwoman will basically fight to split them up, citing past cases and insinuating they are dangerous or unfit as a unit. The LAFD brass won’t want to get in a fight with city council and will separate them but won’t fire them. (A compromise they’ll think is good, but we know is terrible).

I personally think that Buck will be left at the 118. With Captain Gerrard. I really get the feeling that the councilwoman may know him and put him back in place there even in spite of his past.

If we think about Buck’s worst nightmare (being abandoned by those he loves) it fits perfectly. Being by himself in his house but without his family, with a new captain that he knows Hen, Chim, and Tommy hated. That’s the worst possibility for him. Throw in a potential fight with Eddie and you have the perfect storm for Buck, something that would be untenable for him long term.

Relationship-wise, I have a couple different thoughts. Either Gerrard being at the 118 brings Tommy and Buck closer together, because Tommy understands what an awful captain Gerrard is and is a shoulder to lean on for him while he has to deal with it (this is preferable and what I want lol).

Or, as much as I hate to say it, it could lead to a distance between him and Tommy, because Tommy doesn’t want to be around Gerrard (don’t blame him) and he can’t be there for Buck because he’s afraid of turning back into the person he tried so hard to escape.

And I don’t think we’d start season 8 with everyone back together. With 18 episodes (bless) they have time to draw out plotlines that they haven’t been able to this season.

If, as I fervently hope, Bobby makes a recovery from whatever happens to him, he’ll have to go through the same retraining that Buck did when he was crushed by the ladder, which would be an interesting contrast for him to be put in those shoes, maybe desperate to get back out to the field but not being cleared, Athena being worried about him the same way he was worried about her after she was attacked, all that.

I think Hen’s big conflict would be that she feels like them being separated his her fault, since she didn’t force the guy to get care. She would be okay in another house, but potentially feel like she’s starting over, just like with medical school.

For Chim, I think his biggest thing would be taken out of the 118, maybe he would be assigned to the 133 as an extra gut punch since it was Kevin’s house? I think there’s something interesting there.

And Eddie. Eddie, who is taking doppelgänger Kim out in public, while bringing his girlfriend to the medal ceremony. Something is coming here, this situation is precarious at best. I highly doubt he will still be with Marisol by the end of the season. At the same time, I don’t think he’s going to be with Kim either. With this photo, it could be that Chris finds out about Kim or something like that. If I had to guess, I would say that Eddie and Marisol are done by the end of 7x09.

I could also potentially see Eddie being left at the 118 and Buck transferring to air support with Tommy, which could be interesting since Eddie was the one to leave last time. But for angst points, I think leaving Buck alone in his house which is suddenly no longer home, but hostile? I would eat that up.

Overall, with all those happy stills we got today, juxtaposed by the way press is talking about the screeners, I would say we’re in for a rough couple of episodes and a rough hiatus too.

[twentyfivemiceinatrenchcoat]

Shivers quivers shakes trembles…. Hello :3 giggles I think this ask will be shorter than my others but… yk how we talked about how sugu would react to u getting cheated on a while ago? I’m curious now and. How do u think satoru would react?? ALSOOO how do you think stsg would react if you told them together……….. i hope u don’t mind that this is a less of a “me telling u my thoughts” and more of a “what r ur thoughts on this” kinda thing :,3 brain juice has not been flowing recently 😞 but ur takes are always amazing so…………….. I know whatever u say will be yummy and I will devour it all >:) — stsg anon 🧁🥧🍰🍨🍩🍪🍧🧇🥞 < all of the treats for yew!!!!!

me when stsg anon appears in my inbox

FIRST OF ALLLLL pls never ever apologize for your asks 🔫 this is a threat 🔫🔫 i love chatting w you no matter how long/short they r!!! and you don’t ever have to feel pressured to come up w your own thoughts either!!!! i love yapping at you!!!!! :3

w that being said ….. i shall yap >:3 HONESTLY THOUGHH i think stsg are very similar when it comes to this concept!!! in the sense that. i think they’ll comfort you first and foremost, then deal w your cheater ex later. i could see satoru being in Actual Disbelief? like?? he almost almost asks if you’re joking. but you’re crying so?? obviously you’re not????? but the idea that anyone would cheat on you genuinely makes him Flabbergasted. he wants to laugh. he doesn’t but he wants to. he hates seeing you sad. he’s almost offended.

it’s just a mess of emotion n lots and LOTS of hate aimed toward your ex 😭😭 he’s like. no fucking way that loser cheated on you???? it’s obvious that he’s rlly pissed but i think he has enough control over his emotions that it sounds like he’s just making jokes to cheer you up. and he IS but he also feels so????? genuinely angry?????? and he doesn’t know how to deal w that. he’s worried abt comforting you too…… i don’t think satoru sees himself as someone who’s good at comforting others At All but he actually kinda is. he’ll hug you tightly and sit down on the couch w you in his lap. and he stays quiet until you’ve calmed down. then he starts a very passionate, hateful rant abt your ex in hopes of making you laugh/calming himself down…… and if he manages to pull a lil smile out of you he just goes 🥺 . you’re his baby. he doesn’t really know how to treat you when you get this fragile but it also makes him feel so complete somehow. this man lives for cheering you up.

ANYWAYYYY satoru will then do the same thing as sugu would <333 which is <33333 to confront your ex. tbh i think suguru is more likely to get violent than he is LMAO but i doubt either of them would (unless your ex said something Awful abt you in front of them in which case… good luck bud)…. he just wants to make it Very Clear that your ex has no business being in your life anymore. he’s very firm and very scary. if your ex tries to start something he will laugh in their face. might also subtly declare himself as your boyfriend…. not explicitly bc. he’s Not your bf. but i think he makes sure your ex understands that he loves you + he’s better than them + they can forget abt crawling back to you once they realize the mistake they’ve made.

and when it comes to stsg together……. i think. the only difference is that one of them will stay to soothe you while the other one instantly goes to confront your ex 😭😭 they’re saving time!!! and let’s be honest, suguru will be the one staying behind. the caretaker of all time. (even tho he really really wants to tell your ex off himself… but that can wait for now). so satoru runs off, suguru makes sure you get the tears out, and then satoru comes back w a bunch of your favorite treats :3 they’re sweetiepies.

i also feel like they’d have a talk together once you’re asleep… likeee maybe you’re all sleeping in the same room bc you’re still very very upset and in need of comfort :((((( and as soon as you start to snooze they talk…… abt you……. and abt how soon they should start hinting to you abt their Own feelings. satoru would want to do so immediately, bc he can’t Stand the idea of you being hung up on your ex while they love you so fervently, but suguru would convince him to be patient. he doesn’t want them to end up rushing you in any way…. but deep down he also wants you to know how loved you are by them. sniffle.

plot twist you’re still wide awake :3 and blushing furiously :33 but that’s another story…..

[its-jaytothemee]

Tonight...And Every Night - Chapter 8

Pairing: Astarion x Tav, Halsin x Tav; Astarion and Tav POVs

Word count: 1,506; Chapter 8, Astarion POV, Final Chapter

Rating: Mature

Read on AO3

Previous

Summary: Tav fails to convince Astarion to reject the Rite of Profane Ascension and refuses to help him complete it. He leaves her and the party, but regrets his choices later. Angsty and fluffy, POVs from both Astarion and Tav.

Tags: Angst, Fluff, Hurt/Comfort, Spawn!Astarion, Angst w/ Happy Ending

Author's Note: This was inspired by my playthrough where I somehow failed all of the persuasion checks for Astarion after the Cazador fight, leaving me obviously devastated. Final chapter incoming! Thanks so much for reading, I hope you enjoyed my first multi-chapter fic!

When Astarion looked up, Halsin had joined them. He placed a hand on Astarion’s shoulder and gave him a friendly smile.

“Welcome back, Astarion.” He said, wiping tears from his eyes. Astarion smiled up at the handsome elf, still holding Tav against him.

“Thank you…for having me back.”

Halsin pulled them both into a hug, kissing the top of Tav’s head. As lovely as they felt against him, he couldn’t keep a sudden feeling of dread from filling his mind.

“Tell me,” Astarion asked quietly, “what happened to the others? The prisoners that Cazador kept?”

“We got them out, they were making their way to the Underdark.” Halsin replied softly.

“Good.” A wave of relief came over him helping to wash away his guilt. “Thank you…for stopping me…”

Halsin gave a small nod in response, Tav hugged him a little tighter.

“Come on, love. We should go and tell the others that you’re back.” She said, detaching herself from him.

Astarion allowed them to lead him back towards the campfire with their other companions. Tav had her arm looped through his, holding on to him tightly. Halsin walked on the other side of her, one arm around her waist.

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Astarion asked, suddenly anxious. “I doubt that the others will be as…understanding as you.”

“The best way to move past your mistakes is to face them, my friend.” Halsin’s low voice was soft, but it carried in the still air.

“You have to face them eventually, Astarion.” Tav urged, gently. “You didn’t just hurt us when you left, my love. You hurt them too.” She gave his arm a soft squeeze.

Astarion felt a small pit form in his stomach. He found it hard to believe that his absence would have truly affected any of the others. The way Tav spoke, she made it seem like they were saddened by him leaving. That couldn’t be true. Tav was the only one who actually cared for him, maybe Halsin, the others were more acquaintances of pure circumstance…right?

They were close enough that Astarion could distinguish between the different figures around the fire. Everyone was talking in hushed tones, their heads hung low. He found himself unable to take the next step, suddenly terrified of what they would think of him.

“Hey.” Tav stepped in front of him and placed a hand on his shoulder. “It’ll be okay. They may be hurting, but they’ll be happy to see you’re alright. Trust me.” She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before leading him into the light of the fire. He looked over to Halsin who gave him an encouraging smile. Astarion took a deep breath, and then cleared his throat to get everyone’s attention.

Tav stood silently next to Astarion as their other companions turned to look at them. She laced her fingers with his and he gripped her hand tightly.

“Hey Tav! You came –” Karlach stopped abruptly as she registered that Astarion was standing next to her. “A…Astarion?” She stammered.

“Er, yes. Hello, everyone.” He barely squeaked out the words. Tav gave his hand a reassuring squeeze.

“You’re back…” Shadowheart stared at him in disbelief.

“I, uh…” He looked over to Tav, and she gave him a small nod. Looking out over the familiar faces, he expected to see them angry or indifferent at best. Instead, he saw genuine concern, some confusion, and…relief?

“I believe I owe you all an apology.” He bowed his head slightly, still feeling a bit embarrassed.

“I said some awful things back at Cazador’s Palace. I…I wasn’t myself.” He took another deep breath before continuing. He looked over to Gale and Shadowheart, shame welling up inside of him all over again.

“I’d like…” He trailed off, his chest a tightly wound ball of anxiety. “I’d like to come back to your camp. I’d like to continue traveling together, if you’ll have me.”

He nervously scanned their faces, waiting for a response. The air around him was heavy with the sound of silence. He watched as their gazes moved from him to Tav, trying to judge her reaction. Karlach was the first to stand up and walk over to him. She glanced over to Tav, who gave a small smile and nod in response.

“Our camp.” She clapped a hand onto his shoulder, flashing her huge smile at him. “We never wanted you to leave, Fangs.”

Astarion blinked up at her in shock. Before he knew it, everyone had gathered around him. They were all talking over each other, welcoming him back. He felt a couple of pats on his shoulders and back, Gale extended his hand out to clasp Astarion’s arm. Minsc nearly knocked him to the ground. He looked back at Tav, tears gathering in the corners of his eyes. She gave him a cocky smile as if trying to say I told you so.

“Thank you.” He whispered, resting his head against hers.

Tav and Shadowheart walked him over to one of the seats by the fire. Tav brought a few small cloths and small water basin over for him to clean the blood from his hands and torso. She helped gently wipe away some of the blood from his face and hair. Shadowheart’s soothing magic took the sting out of his bruises, and healed the cuts that were concealed by the blood caked on his skin.

The rest of the night was a blur of laughs and smiles. He soaked in each and every sound around him. Other than an occasional companion checking in on his wellbeing, no one mentioned his mishap. There were no harsh words or punishments, no lashings or demeaning speeches. Tav was leaning against his side with her legs draped across Halsin’s lap.

“Could I stay with you tonight?” He whispered into her ear.

“Tonight…and every night.” She whispered back, turning her head to give him a long, soft kiss.

“Ugh, remind me not to get too close to either of your tents tonight…” Karlach joked, feigning disgust. The comment caused Tav to blush, giving Astarion a warm feeling throughout his chest. He squeezed her a little tighter against his side. He leaned closer to her, lowering his voice even more so only she could hear.

“She has no idea, darling.” His words caused Tav’s blush to deepen, and she was fighting a losing battle to hide a smile. He had almost forgotten how much fun it was to tease her.

One by one, their friends turned in for the night. Karlach made some suggestive gestures at Tav as she walked away to her tent, causing another blush to flow across her face and chest. Before leaving, Halsin leaned over to give Tav a soft kiss on her lips, then nose.

“I hope you have a wonderful night, my heart.” He heard him whisper before heading off to bed. With that, Tav stood up and offered him her hand.

“Shall we?” Her sweet smile shone in the dim firelight. He took her hand and gave it a light kiss before standing up and following her back to the familiar confines of his tent.

***

That night, Astarion held Tav’s bare skin against his own again for the first time since Moonrise Towers. Her whole body was pressed up against him, absentmindedly tracing lines across his chest. Her gentle movements slowed as she started to drift off into her trance.

“I love you…always…” She murmured into his chest.

Always, He thought. He quite liked the sound of that.

“And I love you, darling.” He whispered back.

Astarion was finally free of his torment, finally free of Cazador. He kissed her softly on the forehead, holding her head against his chest. He looked back down at Tav’s face, almost afraid to drift off into his own meditation lest he wake up and find out this was all a dream.

No. There were never any dreams living under Cazador’s sadistic rule. Those only came after Tav. It was then that he finally accepted that he was loved. He accepted that despite his mistakes, despite his past, he finally had people who cared for him, actually cared for him. He allowed himself to relax into Tav’s embrace, trusting that come morning she would still be by his side. A large smile spread across his face. He closed his eyes and let his mind wander to the future, his future. He saw himself gathered at the various taverns of Baldur’s Gate, finally learning to dance with friends and drinking the night away. He let his mind wander to when he would be ready to be with both Tav and Halsin. He imagined himself and Tav in a home of their own, maybe somewhere in the city. In truth, it didn’t matter. Home would be wherever he could wake up next to her. From now on, home would be wherever they were together.

This…this is going to be fun. He thought to himself, as he fell into a trance free of nightmares.

[baddygab-bi]

I saw someone saying that Buddie is a slowburn, and I agreed with that for the longest time. But I was thinking about slowburns.

A slowburn means a slow growing relationship that takes time and forms over seasons. A will they, won’t they thing. A “too much sexual tension” type of relationship. A relationship where everyone knows they’ll get together, except the two of them. A relationship where they can’t say in words what they feel for the other person, but the entire audience knows because it’s shown very clearly.

I was thinking about my favorite slowburns. Stop reading now if you don’t want spoilers for Bones or The West Wing.

On Bones, Booth and Brennan took a long time to get together, and the show creator even said he wouldn’t have put them together as early or fast as he did (End of season 6) had Emily not have been pregnant. But from the very start of the show and all the way to them officially getting together, they had a very clear and very explicit romance. People called them out on it, they were at times very open about their feelings, or very explicitly not open about their feelings. It was incredibly clear and obvious that it was leading to a relationship. There was no doubt. The only thing was when it would happen. They dated other people, but we always saw how it affected the other. They lived their lives, and we saw that with the other person. It was a slowburn from start to finish.

The West Wing, Josh and Donna. Aaron Sorkin said that he didn’t write them as romantic because he was basing the relationship on his own platonic relationship with his own assistant. But he then said he regretted that, and when watching it all back later, he wishes he had put them together earlier, in season 2. Even though they weren’t planning on a slowburn with Josh and Donna, it was clear that they both had feelings for each other that went over that line of friendship. When Josh is shot, Donna is there. When Donna gets hurt, Josh is there. People tease them about each other. Donna’s feelings are explicitly said by other characters. They ask Josh a million times if he and Donna are together. Donna helps Josh with dates. Josh hates all of Donna’s dates. They are always there for each other. It was always seen that they’d get together, the only question was when it would happen. It was built up super naturally, from the friendship to the romance. It was a very classic slowburn. But the hints were dropped every single episode.

Now, here’s how Buddie isn’t a slowburn, though it could be if the writers were brave.

The writers haven’t written enough to explicitly show any change in relationship from friends to romance. They’ve done really really well with showing Eddie and Buck together as best friends, but considering most of the general audience can still rationalise things and say “they’re brothers” or “Buck and Eddie aren’t romantic, that’s how I am with my best friend” it means that it’s not explicitly romantic. They still have the ability to turn it and add more of a romantic lens to them in order to actually set them up as a slowburn, depending on how the rest of the season goes. But until the audience can see and agree that there’s a romance happening between Buck and Eddie, I can’t say it’s a slowburn anymore after this episode. If they wanted it to be, they would’ve had something said, they would’ve had Buck react to the dates. They would’ve made it clear. You wouldn’t have to squint at straws and grasp at crumbs. It would be clear. The writers already have the strong base for Buddie. They already have made it clear that Buck is looking for a family and Eddie doesn’t want to date. They’ve already made it clear that Buck loves Chris and Chris loves Buck. They’ve already made it clear that Buck is in Eddie’s will. Now they have to add the romance to it, if they so dare. It has to be infallible to the audience. It has to be visible to the audience. It has to be revealed to the audience. When Ravi said that a partner always has your back, Buck talked about Taylor stabbing his. Same with Shannon talking about her back. But they didn’t ever even allude to the guys thinking about how they have each other’s, that would’ve been a great place to show something to the audience. During any of the breakups they could’ve shown stuff. They could’ve had Buck call a past guy he slept with if they wanted to drop that he’s bi, which would’ve been an obvious thing for the audience. There’s so many, sooo many moments in the show where if they had just moved things a little one way it would’ve been explicitly romantic. But since it wasn’t, it just wasn’t.

A slowburn doesn’t mean that the absence of anything romantic means the presence of romance. You need it all explicitly said and acted on, or explicitly not acted on stuff to make it a slowburn. There can’t be any doubt in the mind of the people watching. Slowburn doesn’t mean it’s a secret. The audience should be 100% aware of what will happen, the characters should not be. That’s why it’s a burn, because we’re waiting and waiting and waiting like a fire slowly licking at us as we watch and wait and watch. The audience has to see it all unfolding without any doubt.

That’s a slowburn.