#but i finally caught up to where i left off

[satorella]

“𝐒𝐞𝐢𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐥” [𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑨𝒏𝒈𝒆𝒍]

You caught 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐞𝐥 𝐊𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐫’𝐬 attention at a soccer conference in Japan about a year ago, where you were hired to take pictures for the sports magazine you worked for. At first, it was just him being his usual arrogant and cocky self when he randomly gave you VIP tickets just because.

“Oh… uh… d-danke, Herr Kaiser…” [Thank you, Mr. Kaiser] You gave him a polite smile. He tilted his head, “Ah, you speak German?” “Just a little… enough for a tourist to get by.” You answered. He nodded and smirked, “Cheer for me, ja?” [Yes?] He pointed at the tickets in your hand as he turned to walk away. “Ja…” You gave an awkward little wave.

Neither of you had any idea where this would eventually lead though…

A couple days later, you woke up with your head throbbing, and Kaiser sleeping soundly next to you... naked under the sheets. You looked around, realizing you were in his hotel room, and both of your clothes were thrown carelessly all over the place; on the sofa, on the counter, the floor, your panties were even hanging on the damn lamp. Then it all started to come back to you. What was supposed to just be a few innocent glasses of champagne at the afterparty of his game, turned into a bit more… obviously. Once you came to, you slowly slipped out of his bed, searched for your clothes, and quietly left his room.

Fuuuuuck, did you really have a one night stand with Michael Kaiser?!?!

After a couple hours, you opened your suite door to...

"Guten Tag, Schöne." [Good day, beautiful.] Shit. "Herr Kaiser... hi... h-how'd you, um, know which room I was in?" You asked, looking both ways down the hallway. "I asked your little freund." [Friend.] He waved his hand dismissively. "Anyway you left your, ah, kamera in my room. I figured you might want it back for work." He hands you your camera. "Oh! Danke!" You take the device. He looks at you for a moment, his expression unreadable. "I looked through some of the photos. I hope you don't mind." He finally says before leaning down to your ear, “I enjoyed seeing the ones from last night as well.” He whispers, making a shiver run down your spine. Pictures? From last night? The hell is this guy talking about? Confusion and curiosity etched on your face, you turned your camera on and clicked through the recent photos...

You, your colleagues, Kaiser and his team taking shots.

You and Kaiser pouring each other shots.

You sitting on Kaiser's lap.

You, and what looks like, grinding on Kaiser.

You, completely blissed out, taking a selfie with Kaiser kissing your neck.

You taking a picture with Kaiser in the elevator door's reflection; he stood behind you with his hands on your hips... while he was busy with your neck.

Kaiser leading you into his hotel room.

You, in Kaiser’s POV… sitting naked on the counter, eyes low and head thrown back as you laughed. (You honestly looked great in this pic… if it weren’t for you being naked😵‍💫)

Kaiser... taking body shots off you...

A mirror selfie with Kaiser positioned behind you... holding one of your legs up on the vanity... while he-

ALRIGHT, you got the point! You quickly shut off the camera and looked at anywhere else but him. He smirked, seeing how shy you suddenly got. "I-I'll, uh, delete these… don't worry..." You cleared your throat. "Just because you get rid of the evidence of our fuck-fest, doesn't mean I'll let you forget it." He shamelessly looks you up and down, "Are you free to do it again tonight?" You scoffed. The nerve of this guy!? "I-I'm not some bootycall, you perv! Du bist so ein perverser!" [You are such a pervert!] You whisper-yelled. He laughed at your attempt to insult him in his own language. "Really? But from what I can remember, all you could say was 'Micha! So gut! Bitte! Bitte mehr!' hm?" [So good! Please! Please more!] All the color drained from your face. “Okay. Guten Tag, und Auf Wiedersehen.” [Good day, and goodbye.] You tried to close the door in his face, but he stopped it with one hand, “Nein. Wait.” [No. Wait.]

…And that’s how your love story all began. Annoying way to meet the love of your life, right? Agh! Aber du hast trotzdem gelernt, ihn zu lieben. 💆‍♀️ [Agh! But you still learned to love him.]

Ever since that day, he subconsciously started talking to you more and seeing you more at soccer conferences; country to country. You were the only foreigner that could actually understand him and have a decent conversation with him in his native tongue. (Not to mention, you kept each other company at night.) At games, he would casually search the crowd for your familiar pretty face, knowing you’d be there; rocking his jersey, waving and screaming his name. You showed up for him at every game, wherever it was. Even though he was still kind of an ass, your constant presence started to make him feel… something. Something he’s always wanted, but would never allow.

Kaiser wasn’t one to catch feelings. He’d usually cut out anything that would distract him from his goals. Nor does he really have that many friends due to his arrogant and rude personality. Sure, he has his team, but ehh. Then there was the thing going on with you. He actually didn’t mind having you around. You weren’t clingy and annoying like most women were. And he enjoyed the sex, of course. But after a while, he started to notice that things between you started to become something a little more than just sex. Even just talking to you became part of his daily routine. You guys met up to have breakfast/lunch/dinner together if you were in the same city, and FaceTimed if you weren’t. There were times where he just craved to hear your sweet voice after a gruesome day of practice. Craved to hear your stupid jokes that weren’t even funny, but it was really your laugh that he wanted to hear when he was having some depressing late night thoughts. God only knows why you still stick around. He’s unbearable half of the time, but here you were… choosing to deal with his bullshit.

All of it.

With time, you started to become the support system, the companionship, the patience, and the love he’s always wanted, needed, but was too prideful and damaged to ever ask for. You understood him. You were always there for him. And for once in his lonely life, he didn’t feel so alone anymore.

Currently, you and Kaiser were in his hotel room, massaging his scalp as he laid his head in your lap. You came to surprise him at one of his home games in his home country, Germany, after telling him just a few days ago that you wouldn’t be able to make it.

“I could have flown you out here, meine Schönheit. Tsk.” [My beauty.] He lightly scolds you. “But that would’ve ruined the surprise, ja?” You smiled. “Tsk.” He grabbed your wrist and moved your hand to his neck, “Here. Massage me here.” He demanded. “So sassy, mein Schatz.” [My darling.] You chuckled, but did as he said, massaging over his blue rose tattoo. He closed his eyes. “Your touch, it’s relaxing, meine Liebe.” [My love.] He said, which was a little unusual. He was being sweet and focusing on you, rather than bragging about how his team wouldn’t have won without him; which was what he usually did after a win. You leaned down to press a kiss on his forehead as a reply. You weren’t sure how to respond to that… without saying the wrong thing and risking ruining his good mood. He opened his eyes, a sigh leaving his lips as he looked up at you. He pulled your head back down, capturing your lips in a kiss. After a moment, he pulled away and caressed your cheek. “Ich liebe dich, Engel.” [I love you, Angel.] He said quietly, which was another rare occasion with Kaiser where he actually used his words to express his feelings. “And I love you.” You smiled, hovering your lips over his, “Are you okay?” “Ah, meine Liebe. I’m alright, just… tired from playing.” He said as he reached up to move a few strands of your hair behind your ear. His bright blue eyes were scanning your face, watching every expression and detail. “I’m glad you’re here...” He ran his thumb over your cheek, “I can always count on you.” He sat up and pulled you on top of him, his hands moving to rest on your hips as you straddled him.

“Michael!” You gasped as you felt his semi-hard poking the inside of your thigh. “I thought you said you were tired?” “I said tired from playing, mein Liebling. Not in other activities.” You playfully rolled your eyes. Ah, now you understand why he’s being so lovey dovey… he’s horny! He chuckled in his rough German accent as his hands began to roam your body. “I missed you these last few weeks.” “Ja, I can see that… or I mean, feel it.” You snickered. “Ah, mein Engel. Du bist so wunderschön.” [My Angel. You are so beautiful.] He praised you as he gave your jawline soft kisses. He grunted a little when he felt your lower half grind against him, causing him to squeeze the plush fat of your ass under your denim skirt. He wanted to be gentle, but that’s proving to be quite difficult for him right now. He needed you. “Mein Engel, bitte. Lass mich dich lieben.” [My Angel, please. Let me love you.] He pleaded quietly as his hands continued to roam your body, slowly lifting his jersey off of you. “Ich will dich.” [I want you.] You let the jersey fall to the ground, tilting your head to the side as he kept whispering sweet nothings in your ear, making you throb at your core.

Kaiser turned, laying you down on the sofa and positioning himself in between your legs. “Ich liebe dich.” [I love you.] He murmured as his lips began to trail down your neck, down your chest. He took one breast in his mouth, and sucked on your hardened nub. You let out a whimper, arching into him, practically smooshing your chest in his face. His tattooed hand journeyed down your body. “So Schön.” [So beautiful.] He hissed, pushing your legs open wider for him to have more room. He wasted no time in bunching your skirt up and pulling your panties to the side, dragging a finger up your slit, collecting your slick. His finger began tracing circles around your entrance before slowly pushing it inside you. “Ah, du bist so feucht für mich…” [You are so wet for me…] “Hnngh!” You moaned, nails digging into the sofa. “Komm für mich. Be the good girl I know you are.” [Come for me.] He murmured against your skin, lightly nipping you in random places. He inserted another finger in you, pumping at a slow, but good, pace and curling them both slightly to rub that sweet spot that always had you seeing stars. “M-Micha!” You whined, writhing beneath him. “Let yourself go on my fingers…” He said, his voice low and raspy. And like the good girl you were for him, you did as he said. As always. You shut your eyes as you came on his long, thick fingers; panting and moaning his name. He grabbed your chin during the middle of it with his free hand and forced you to face him. “Look at me.” He demands. Your eyes fluttered open, trying to stop them from rolling back from pure ecstasy. “That’s it. There’s my girl.” He lets you ride out your high, before slowly pulling his fingers out of you and licking them clean.

He reached between you to pull the knot on his robe loose, and lets it fall on the floor next to the jersey, then positions himself at your entrance. “Ich brauche dich...” [I need you...] He whispers as he pushes into you, letting out a deep groan and grunting. “Gott, du bist so eng.” [God, you’re so tight.] You let out a louder moan at the stretch, your nails digging even more into the sofa. He slowly slid out almost all the way before thrusting back in deeper. Harder.

“So gut...” [So good...]

Fuck, maybe you two should spend time apart more often.

© 𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒-𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓. 𝐀𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐝.

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[g4rvez-r3id]

Naughty Boy

Post Prison! Spencer Reid x Unit Chief! Fem Reader

Synopsis: You and Spencer are trying to have a little fun in secret until Emily walks in… Spencer decides to make it a little more interesting underneath your desk.

Category: Smut

Warnings: established relationship, power dynamics, reader and spencer keep their relationship private so it’s a bit of forbidden love trope, kissing, smut warnings: lowkey sub!spencer, and also lowkey perv!spencer, spencer has a boner, straddling, stroking, cunnilingus, getting caught, exhibitionist kink? fingering, cumming in pants, use of ‘sweet boy’, ‘good boy’ and ‘naughty boy’, spencer lowkey pathetic- idk that should cover it

Author’s Note: hey lovelies! lowkey this one kinda sucked but i wanted to write a smut oneshot 🤭 got this idea watching a sitcom lmao anyways post prison sub spencer supremacy 🛐 debating on writing a part two to this one where reader punishes spencer hehehe let me know! please enjoy this one!! <3

A lot of changes happened since you’d become unit chief of the BAU. It wasn’t your intention of becoming unit chief but Emily Prentiss believed otherwise. She passed down the tassel to you since you’d had so much experience on this team for years. And she also knew Hotch would’ve wanted it, too.

After Barnes tried to take the BAU down, Emily was given back her job and hiring authority. Feeling as if you’d earned the spot, she promoted you. Of course, you were a little anxious taking charge at first but Emily assured she’d stay every step of the way and even offered to take over when you felt the power to be a bit too much.

You and Spencer’s relationship had become more balanced since he got back from prison and you felt the need to keep your relationship under wraps for as long as possible. Nobody knew you two were together, you both were very careful when it came to your relationship. You’d only been dating for a year and a half since he got back from prison where he’d finally confessed his undying love for you and that he’d show you just how much he loved you when he got out.

You’d both been pining after each other for years before the fact. And since then every moment you’d shared together has been wonderful, despite keeping it hidden from your colleagues. It was for the better, especially now that you were a higher power. If it wasn’t strictly forbidden before, it definitely was now that you were unit chief.

You were lucky that you’d chosen someone that was usually good at keeping secrets. You both never arrived to work together, you both left work at separate times and only ever spoke in a professional manner to one another. Of course, nothing too far as to not speaking to each other entirely. You were surprised that no one had suspected a thing for the year and a half you’d been together.

Today, you were in your office, filing everyone’s paperwork and signing off on them one by one. You’d just finished JJ’s when there was a knock on your door. “Come in.” You spoke and behind the door had been your loving and doting boyfriend.

“This a bad time?” Spencer asked as he waited for your okay to come in. “No, no, not at all. Come in.” You smile and turn towards your already closed blinds. If you hadn’t already closed them, it definitely would’ve looked suspicious if you closed them now.

As soon as he shut your door, you stood up from your seat with a sly smirk and walk over to him. “So, what can I do you for?” You ask. “Oh, nothing, I just—” Spencer rests his hands on your hips. “I just missed you.”

You smile as you hold him close. It’d been a minute since you had a moment together. Cases were often disrupting already what little time you two had together.

“I missed you too, my love.” You say, looking into his eyes with a loving smile. “Why don’t we go out for dinner tonight? I’m working on the paperwork now so I won’t have to stay here too late tonight.” You suggest and he smile right back at you. “I’d like that. We could use a date night.”

You pull him closer to kiss you on your lips and as you pull him flush against your body, you feel it. It’s definitely unmistakable that he’s hard in his pants.

“Uh, baby?” You ask, pushing him a bit. “Yeah?” He asks as he leans his head down towards his collarbone. “Are you… hard just from a few kisses?” This wasn’t the first time he’d gotten an erection just from a few simple kisses from you. He pretty much gets turned on by anything you do. And you secretly love it.

“I can’t help it, Spencer admits into your neck. “You’re gorgeous.”

You blush at his words and smile, “Aw, thank you, my love.” His mouth stays on your neck, sucking on your pulse point. You pull him towards your chair and push him into it, getting on top of him and straddling him with a smirk etched on your face as you lean down and kiss him on his lips.

He tries to speak into the kiss, pushing you away for a brief moment. “Wait, wait, wait.” He says and you look down at him, your index finger tapping on his plump pink lips, staring down at them. You had a bit of an oral fixation when it came to Spencer Reid. Whether it was for yourself or for him.

“What’s wrong?” You ask. “I just don’t want us to get caught, that’s all.” Spencer stated and you smile, “I know, sweet boy. But you let me worry about that, okay? Right now, I just want to take care of my boy.”

You run your hand towards the front of his slacks and palm his hard cock through his pants. He moans a little too loud and you are quick to clasp your free hand over his mouth. “If we want to this to work, you’re gonna need to be a good boy and be quiet, okay?” He nods vehemently into your palm.

You stroke him a few more times through his pants and you check and see that your sweet boy’s eyes are rolling to the back of his head. You wonder how long you can keep him on the edge, how long you can make this until he’s shouting that he can’t take it anymore, how much he’ll—

Knock. Knock. Knock.

You and Spencer look at each other in horror before you quickly usher him underneath your desk and fix yourself up to the best of your ability, sitting in your seat. Surely, you could’ve explained that Spencer was just in here for a moment but you acted quickly and couldn’t risk whoever was coming in to talk to you to see what you two were doing. You two didn’t exactly have the best poker faces in the world.

“Come in.” You say, attempting to sound as normal as you can. The door opens and in walks Emily. “Hey, Y/n. Care if we talk for a moment?”

“Of course, come right in.” Emily nods, shutting the door behind her and sitting in the chair in front of your desk.

As Emily begins to talk with you about your most recent case paperwork and begins on giving you pointers on how to handle it quickly, Spencer is crouched underneath your desk and he has a perfect view up your skirt.

You’re too distracted with Emily being in the room to feel how his hands — his gorgeous hands — glide up and down your calf and they begin to reach in a higher place and you flinch as his nimble fingers touch your underwear.

Your eyes widen as Emily furrows her brows at you and seems to notice you’ve flinched. “Are you alright?” She asks and you nod, “Oh, yeah, super. Just too fidgety today,” You hold up your mug. “Too much coffee.”

Emily continues her advice as you feel Spencer removing your underwear down your thighs. You don’t see how he stuffs them in his pocket. He bunches your skirt to the best of his ability and you look down just for a brief moment to see that he’s become in a trance as he gawks at your wet pussy.

You’re so lucky that your desk is too high up for Emily to see what you two are doing. This is so wrong. You should definitely try and stop him but the fact that he could be caught underneath your desk — it just turns you on even more. Who knew you were such an exhibitionist?

“Another thing that I recommend that you do is—” You hardly listen to Emily as you try your best to give your undivided attention to her but it’s really difficult when the man you love is underneath your table, lapping at your pussy with his useful tongue.

You feel everything as he begins to suck on your clit and sticks his fingers into your hole and you try your best to keep a straight face. You bite your lip and try and keep yourself as hunched over as you can to not draw suspicion.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” Emily asks, once more. “Uh, yeah,” Your cheeks redden. “I’m… just not feeling very…” You feel as he rolls his tongue in a figure-eight on your bundle of nerves. “Well at the… the moment.”

“If you need to go home, I can take over the rest of the day.” Emily offers and you think about it. You definitely need the time to punish your sweet boy for being needy and impatient, so maybe going home would be a good idea.

“Uh, that’s probably a good idea.” You say. “Why don’t you let the rest of the team know?” Emily nods and leaves the room and you wait for the door to shut to finally gasp and whimper.

As Emily exits the room, she walks away from the door and shudders. Yeah, she knew what the hell was happening. The team pretty much knew you two were together already. You guys didn’t have the best poker faces in the world.

“Oh, you naughty boy.” You back your seat up a bit as you run your hands through his hair. He takes his mouth off of you for a second to breathe. “I like seeing you in an authoritative position. It’s sexy.” With that, he dives back in, running his tongue through your folds again.

You take your hand through his locks, pushing him impossibly deeper into your pussy. “Oh, my God!” You exclaim softly, eyes rolling back as he finishes you off. “Come on, cum for me. Please. Please. Baby, please.” He pleads in your pussy, moaning and sending vibrations through your body as he sticks his fingers back inside.

You bite your lip to contain your moans in your office and you feel yourself gush over his face and look at him, his eyes blown with lust and love. “Did I do good?” Spencer asks, wiping his mouth of your essence and you smirk.

“You did.” You admit. “Now, that Emily’s gone, maybe I should finish what we started.” Spencer looks down and shakes his head, “No, I, uh, actually don’t need help with that anymore.”

You furrow your brows, look down and sure enough, Spencer’s slacks are a shade darker near his crotch. You should’ve expected this, he’d cum at the slightest touch.

“Somebody definitely wants to get punished tonight.” You tease, dragging a finger to his chin and he holds his arms up in surrender. “Hey, sorry I wanted to look good for my boss.”

You shake your head with a chuckle. He can be so impossible sometimes.

So, you tell him to exit the office as discreetly as he can with his blazer over his crotch to hide the evidence and to call in for the rest of the day, making an excuse that there’s a bug going around so you can edge him for hours on end when he gets to your apartment.

[domm1etae]

where you cover your face shyly with your hands when you are getting fucked. only for hongjoong to grab said hands and pin them to the bed so you can't hide.

the moment hongjoong caught the sight of your hands flying up to your face, his jaw tightened, and his pace faltered for a split second. you were beneath him, flushed and trembling, trying to hide the soft, breathy moans spilling out of you and the way your eyes rolled back every time he thrust deeper.

"nah," he muttered, voice low and rough, grabbing your wrists and pinning them to the mattress above your head. "don’t hide from me."

your lips parted in a stifled whimper as his grip tightened, his hips snapping forward hard enough to knock the breath out of you. the drag of his cock against your walls was maddening, every inch making you squirm under his hold.

"look at me," he demanded, his tone sharp but laced with something dark, hungry. his eyes burned into yours as he pressed his forehead against yours, his body never losing its relentless rhythm. "lemme see you. wanna watch every little expression you make when i’m fucking you this good."

you bit your lip, your face turning away, but his grip on your wrists didn’t let up. if anything, it got stronger. "don’t do that," he growled, nipping at the corner of your mouth before biting down on your jaw. "don’t act shy when i know how bad you want this. how bad you want me."

his words sent heat flooding through you, your walls fluttering around him, and he smirked when he felt it. "yeah, that’s what i thought," he rasped, his voice thick with satisfaction. "your body doesn’t lie, baby."

his pace quickened, each thrust hitting so deep it had you crying out, your shy protests turning into desperate, high-pitched moans that filled the room. hongjoong grinned, his breath hot against your neck.

"fuck, you’re so good for me," he groaned, his cock twitching inside you as he dragged your body closer to his. "you feel how deep i am? how much i’m stretching you out? bet it’s driving you crazy, huh? bet you’re close already."

your head tilted back, your hands twisting in his grip as you tugged weakly, but he didn’t let go. instead, he leaned down, catching your lips in a messy, heated kiss that left you gasping for air.

"don’t hide from me, y/n," he murmured against your lips, his voice low and teasing. "wanna see every fucking second of you falling apart on my cock."

the way his hips snapped into yours, the way his eyes stayed locked on your face, watching every twitch, every moan, every little tremor that rolled through you—it was too much. the heat in your stomach coiled

tighter and tighter until it finally snapped, your body arching off the bed as you came with a loud cry.

hongjoong cursed under his breath, his pace turning rougher, sloppier, chasing his own release. "that’s it," he groaned, his voice wrecked as he buried himself as deep as he could, his release spilling into you with a sharp gasp.

he stayed there for a moment, catching his breath, his body pressed against yours. when he finally pulled back, his hands loosened around your wrists, but he didn’t let you go completely. instead, he leaned in, pressing a slow, almost lazy kiss to your lips.

"you don’t get to hide from me, baby," he murmured, his grin wicked and smug. "not when you’re this fucking pretty taking my cock."

[startaegi]

ON THE RUN, cho hyunju. 【 CHAPTER 02 】

⤑ pairing, cho hyunju x fem!reader

⤑ synopsis, where secret-not so secret lovers, hyunju and yn find each other in the unlikely of places.

⤑ series masterlist, on the run.

⤑ chapter three, coming soon!

⤑ notes, i’ve never written in this point of view before, i usually always write in a third person pov so please excuse how bad this is, i’m still learning 😓

⤑ taglist, @etta-huracan @littlegirlmin @mysatnin @taemin93 @ryoiii @sann1e @alexisabirdie @maiznamai @marsyay78 @learninglinesintherainn @noxitsnox @relaps3 @dbj444 @kiss-es (if you would like to be added let me know)

The bedsheets are scratchy against your legs. Your bare feet tangled in the ends keeping in the warmth. The lamp to your right lit up a small part of the room, just enough for your eyes to focus on the book in your hands. You couldn't afford a television or laptop, anything that could give you any form of entertainment but books came cheap, sometimes free and you quite enjoyed loosing yourself within the pages.

The door clicking open pulled you from the magical world in your lap. Hyunju entered the apartment, her coat flaked white with snow as was her hair. She looked at you with a bright smile, eyes crinkling in the corners. "Hi baby" She smiled in your direction, setting the small paper bag on the kitchen counter.

You instantly shut the page in your book, focused on nothing but her. She somehow looked more beautiful than when she left, not that it was possible because she looked beautiful every day. Her bangs where brushed to the side, most likely from the wind and the little bows you had added to her hair that morning - that she finally felt brave enough to wear in public, you almost cried tears of joy, had become loose.

"You look pretty" You said, eyes following her every movement. She reached for the bag, hands stopping mid air. You caught a faint blush making its way onto her cheeks before she turned away from you.

She refused to turn back, quickly going to what she was doing before. "I look the same as always" She replied, a little embarrassed.

This happened often you had begun to notice. Hyunju never accepted a compliment, she always found a way to brush it off or to turn it on you. She was pretty but you were prettier. Her outfit went together well but yours fit you better. It was a learning game, one you knew you couldn't rush. In time she'd learn to love herself as you did but in the mean time you'd be there to remind her.

"And you always look pretty" You assured her.

Hyunju doesn't reply but you can see a small smile forming on her face, aswell as the tips of her ears turning red. She shrugged off her jacket, hanging it with yours on the dainty clothing rack.

Her eyes shined when she turned to face you, fingers clutching the little brown bag she'd arrived home with. "I bought strawberries" She beamed. "I thought we deserved a treat" She took a seat next to you, placing the punnet of fruit between you both.

You giggled at her excitement, taking one of her cold hands in yours and pressing your lips against her palm. "I missed you" You said softly, tilting your head up at her. She was already looking at you, the same silly smile on her face. Your cheeks burned at her stare.

"Hmm" Hyunju hummed, reaching down for you. "I missed you too" She pressed her lips against yours, they were cold and cracked from the December air but you smiled into it nonetheless.

"Let's eat" She said against your lips, pecking them once more. "You can tell me about your book"

You didn't waste any time in pulling back, one hand reaching for the strawberries and the other your book. You flipped to the last page you had updated her on, strawberry half in your mouth. She laughed softly beside you, cupping her hand under your chin to stop any juice from spilling onto the pages.

Your eyes reluctantly opened, the brightness of the room stinging them. You'd been dreaming of her again, this time a memory from one of the first winters you'd spent together. Your mind felt foggy, all of the days suddenly muddling together. A raging headache was slowly forming in the base of your skull, a heavy thudding pulsating against your head. You lifted a hand to touch the area only to realise your entire body felt the same, as if someone had weighed you down with a ton of bricks.

You sat up slowly, dazed and confused as to where you'd ended up. Your eyes widened in surprise, only now noticing the green sleeves on your arms you hadn't been wearing before. You hurriedly kicked away the thin blanket, a puff of air escaping your lips at the green pants on your legs. Someone had changed you from the jeans and coat you'd been wearing. You frantically scan the room, mouth falling open. Countless people were gathering in the centre, all in matching outfits. The beds were one too many, piled high on top of one another. You shook your head in disbelief, of course it was too good to be true, you'd practically led yourself right into the kidnappers arms.

The doors pulled open jolting you backwards. You took a long shuddering breath, bravely pulling yourself from the bed and to the crowd. The same masked guard who had taken you from Hangang Bridge was there but now there was 8 more of him. You noticed the different shapes on their masks, mind swimming in confusion. What had you gotten yourself into?

"I would like to extend a hearty welcome to all of you" The masked man called. This one with a square printed to the front. "Everyone here will participate in six different games over six days, those who win all six games receive a handsome cash prize"

You don't have a moment to think, not when her voice is calling out from across the room. "Excuse me?" She asked. Your heart beats against your rib cage threatening to break free. She was here. She was okay. She was alive. But she was here? Of course she was. Your mind is scrambled, a million emotions passing through. "You said i'd be playing games, but you practically kidnapped me, so how can I believe that?" She called out again, you hear everyone murmuring in agreement.

You follow their line of eyesight, in search for her but too many people block your view. You need to get to her, the game now forgotten, you just have to see her face. You don't hear or see anything going on around you, only focused on the fact Cho Hyunju, the same girl who has ignored you for weeks was here in the same room as you.

You're lost in your thoughts when a girl steps into your path, touching your arm lightly. "Are you okay?" She hesitantly asked, an anxious smile on her face.

"Oh, uh-" You stuttered.

She takes your arm gently, sitting you on the bed. "You don't look okay" She keeps a soft grip on your arms. "Do you think you're going to faint?" She questioned.

You shake your head. "No, i'm okay" You replied, meeting her eyes. "I get these headaches sometimes, just the stress of everything going on I think" You awkwardly laughed, brushing her off.

She looked you over, not fully believing a word you'd said. "Let's just stay here for now" She smiled, taking a seat beside you. "I get the same way so I understand"

You raised your head at that, fully facing her. "You do?" You asked.

She doesn't open her mouth to reply instead her eyes land on her stomach. Only then do you notice the obvious bump she hadn't done well in covering. You let out a gasp, looking from her stomach to her face. She giggled softly, caressing her swollen stomach.

You don't get the chance to reply as the unknown girls attention focuses on someone else. A boy in the crowd currently shouting at the masked guards. You only see the back of his head from where you're sat, countless others surrounding him. His voice is loud and clear. "Do you know how much i've invested?"

"Player 333, Lee Myunggi" The square masked guard replied.

The screen above the doorway changes from the number of people in the room to a scene you notice all too well. A train station, ddakji and too many hits to the face.

"Age 30, used to run a Youtube channel called MG Coin. After convincing subscribers to invest in a new crypto coin called Dalmatian, causing losses of approximately 15.2 billion won, you shut down and disappear"

Your eyes widen at the number. Your debt seemed silly in comparison.

The guard continued. "You're wanted for fraud and for violating telecom and financial investment laws." They paused. "Current debt levels, 1.8 billion won"

You hold in a breath as the screen changes, you hope not to see your own face. The embarrassment of your debts was already enough for you to face never mind a room full of people, no matter if they're in the same situation or not.

It changes once again and you see an all too familiar face. You recognise the day it happened because she's in a shirt you'd picked for her. It was the same day she'd left you the goodbye message. All the missing pieces were starting to fall into place.

"Player 120, Cho Hyunju, 330 million won in debt"

Taking a deep breath you sit up straight, hands reaching for the necklace around your neck. She was wearing the same one on the screen. Your first couples item.

The next half hour passed in the blink of an eye, you don't register anything, your mind is still focused only on one thing. You know you should be listening, you can tell from the reactions of the crowd you're missing out on important information but your brain doesn't allow you to concentrate.

You blinked back to reality at player 222 tapping your shoulder. "We have to move" She said, gesturing towards the crowd. Everyone had slowly begun to form lines of four, a table and guard at every end.

It was a fast process, the lines moved with ease each player signing a consent form - which you had come to learn from who you now knew as Junhee.

PLAYER CONSENT FORM.

1. A player is not allowed to voluntarily quit.

2. A player who refuses to play will be eliminated.

3. The games may be terminated upon a majority vote. In case of a tie players will vote again.

4. If the games are terminated, players will divide the prize equally.

SIGNATURE _________.

The pen in your hand hesitated for a moment, hovering ever so slightly above the paper. You faltered but in the end it wasn't a difficult decision, you hadn't a clue how much the prize money was but anything was more than you had now. You had to win it.

𓈒 ˖ ࣪ 𐙚 ⊹ ‧₊˚

You moved quickly through the crowds, bumping into countless people on the way, their faces scowling in your direction. You ignored them, on a mission to find Hyunju. You abruptly came to a halt, face to face with a queue of people and pink screens. You heard the clicks of a camera, noticing the people dressed like you smiling into them. They're taking ID pictures? You thought. This situation couldn't get any stranger.

"The first game will begin momentarily. After having your picture taken, follow the staff's instructions and proceed to the game site" A woman's robotic voice echoed through a speaker.

Your eyes flickered around the bright coloured room while you fidgeted in your spot. You raised on your toes, looking out for that familiar short haired girl but to no luck. The man in front of you smiled for his photo, then walking off to the side. The guard ushered you forward. You furrowed your brows, staring at the camera, unsure what to do.

"Please look into the camera and smile!"

The corners of your mouth upturned awkwardly. You were glad to not have seen a preview after the machine beeped, you didn't need to see how you looked right now. You dragged your feet off to the side, turning back to see if you could yet catch a sight of Hyunju. Again no luck.

You pressed your fingers against your eyes in frustration. Your teeth bit into your lip as you followed the direction of the other players, the woman's robotic voice still blaring through the speakers. The stairs seemed to be never ending, every corner was a new staircase until finally you came face with an open door leading outside. You felt the breeze against your face, breathing in a deep breath of fresh air. Your feet scuffed against the sandy floor, sticking to your white shoes.

Only when you weren't actively searching for her, she found you. "Y/N?" Hyunju's voice called across the yard, surprised.

You looked up from your shoes, relief flooded your veins at the sight of Hyunju's face. You swallowed back your tears, throat feeling tight.

She reached you, hands grabbing your shoulders then moving to caress your face. You couldn't quite tell how she was feeling. Scared, shocked, confused and happy. Her face was a mix of emotions. She quickly dropped her hands at the scoff of an older man passing you by.

"What're you doing here?" She questioned softly, tone still full of shock.

You chuckled bitterly. "What are you doing here?" You bit back.

Hyunju flinched. "I deserved that" She admitted. "I deserve a lot worse"

You took a deep breath trying to regain your cool. "So, this is where you ended up?" You questioned, disappointed and hurt.

She reached a hand towards you, not expecting to be ignored. Hyunju's face fell, her eyes glistening. "Please, you have to understand, Y/N" She begged. "I did it for us" You know she's right, you'd already come to terms with that after seeing her on the screen. You were here for the same reason. But that didn't excuse what she had done, leaving you without an explanation for so long.

You're interrupted by a manic males voice. You both turn to look at where the commotion is coming from. Player 456 is pushing his way through the crowd, arms waving wildly. "Everyone" He shouted. The silence between is uncomfortable, everyone's focus turned to the unknown frantic man. "Everyone listen up! Pay attention!"

You look at Hyunju, eyebrows furrowed in confusion. Her expression matched yours.

"Listen carefully! This is not just a game, if you loose the game, you die!"

The silence doesn't last very much longer, laughter echoes across the courtyard. "Hey!" A woman's voice called, somewhere from the front. "What are you talking about? We're going to die playing red light green light?"

You're playing red light, green light? You asked yourself. You hadn't been paying attention too busy in conversation with your missing, now found, girlfriend.

"Yes that's right" He replied. "If they catch you moving, they will kill you. They will shoot you from somewhere! Stay on your toes, if you get caught you die. That dolls eyes are motion detectors" He pointed to the massive doll behind him adorned in an orange dress and pig tails. "Stay on your toes" He repeated.

Your chest tightened. Surely he was lying, there was no way any of you would die playing red light, green light, it sounded ridiculous. You eyed Hyunju, her lips pursed clearly in the same battle with herself, to believe him or not.

"What the hell are you talking about?" The same man who scoffed at you earlier, questioned.

"I think he's trying to scare us so he can win the prize money" The man beside him said confidently. Everyone nodded in agreement.

"Don't pull any tricks, asshole" Another man called out.

Player 456 desperately pleaded, "You have to believe me"

You look at Hyunju again, you can tell she's also feeling the same way. He seemed too sincere to be lying, the panicked look on his face was chilling. The doll behind him began to turn, the creaking sound scraping against your ears.

"Don't be alarmed or panic. No matter what happens, don’t panic and start running" He bellowed, voice strained.

The same woman's voice came from another speak once again, "Let the game begin"

"What do we do?" You whispered to Hyunju.

She faced you, voice a little shaky when she spoke back. "Stay beside me, just in case"

You nodded, moving closer to her. The older girl looked down at you, eyes full of sorrow. She sadly smiled with a nod turning back to face the doll, you followed her eyesight. A five minute timer was now displayed on the wall and the game began.

[starlighttsv]

can you write a fix of paige as a mom to a teen girl who she catches trying to sneak out

Sneaking out - Pazzi’s daughter

Sum: paige catches Saylor sneaking out

Warnings: none for now I don’t think

Notes: I hope I did this justice 🤞 I know some people have said they’re excited for this fic so I’m honestly hoping you guys all like this

Wc: 1k

Pair: paige x daughter!oc (Saylor)

Saylors Masterlist

“Just climb out your window, It’s not that hard dude.” Saylor’s friend Jasmine says over the phone. “My moms could catch me Jas, then I’ll be grounded. Then what?”

“You’re acting like your moms even pay attention to you bro, they’re way to famous and busy to pay attention to what you of all people are doing. Sneak out through your window or we are leaving without you. We are not gonna get caught because your a scaredy cat” Jasmine says not leaving room for argument and hanging up the phone

Saylor sighs bringing her phone down from her ear and looking at the picture of her moms and her on Christmas morning a few years back that is taped to her vanity mirror. Back in a time where Saylor wasn’t constantly being looked down on by her friends, and was actually happy. Back in a time where she wasn’t a complete disappointment to her moms, and they didn’t have to constantly ground her.

Saylor takes a deep breath and then gets up from her bed and walking to her closet to start getting ready. After Saylor got dressed and did her hair and makeup, she texted her friend group chat that she was ready to be picked up - getting left on read

With them not responding and giving her an estimated time of when they’ll be here, she sat by her window waiting.

When they finally do get to the Bueckers household after around 35 minutes when it’s a 14 minute drive, Saylor opens her window and climbs out carefully turning around to close her window a little bit

“Hey bug, do you wanna watch a movie with me? Mama’s gonna be home lat-“ Saylor froze immediately seeing her mom walk into her room while she was pulling the window down. “Get in the house” Paige says in a monotone voice

Jasmine and the others could see Paige through the window and immediately drove off, leaving Saylor to fend for herself.

Saylor slowly climbs back into her room and stands by the window with her head down and hands clasped behind her back. Paige scoffs “What? You not gonna look at me now?”

Saylor just keeps her head down, “living room! NOW!” Paige says and then commands when Saylor doesn’t move. Saylor walks past Paige and walks downstairs to the living room - sitting on the couch and waiting for Paige to come back.

“You wanna tell me where you were going?” Paige says while walking down the stairs and to the couch - sitting down in front of Saylor.

Saylor just keeps her head down and looks at her hands in her lap. “Hello? I’m talking to you!” Paige says still trying to get Saylors attention “Saylor Jade Bueckers, look at me and answer the question now!” Paige says sternly, making Saylor shake her head

“No? You’re gonna tell me no? After I just caught YOU trying to sneak out?” Paige says baffled about how her daughter’s been acting recently “Fine you wanna play this game? Let’s play this game! You’re grounded for two months - no phone, no tv, no video games, you will have my old phone with mine and Azzi’s phone numbers that you can call and text ONLY us with and you will turn it in, to one of us when you’re home from school. You use your computer ONLY for school. No basketball or dance for two weeks-“

“Mom! No! You can’t do that! College recruiters are watching us now at games and recitals, how are they supposed to see me if you do that?!”

“I guess you should have thought about that before you decided to sneak out!” Paige yells making Saylor look back down at her hands and try to hold in her tears “I will call your coaches tomorrow morning and tell them that you are not to be participating in practices, games, recitals, all of that for two weeks. You are to go to school and come home immediately. You also now have a bedtime, me and Azzi will come and check on you randomly. Oh and I will be installing cameras around the house and outside of your windows tomorrow”

“Mom!-“ “Do NOT mom me right now Saylor Jade! What did you think was gonna happen when you decided to sneak out? That we would just never find out? That we wouldn’t care? What?! Tell me what you thought was gonna happen?! And let’s mention how you always get ungrounded and then immediately do something to get you grounded again! What is going on with you?! Paige yelled again just to be met with silence

“Go to your room!” Paige said pinching the bridge of her nose “mom-“ Saylor starts but gets cut off “Go. To. Your. Room. Saylor” Paige say’s strictly making Saylor sniffle and slowly get up and start making her way to the stairs

When she reaches them Paige stops her “While you’re up there, think about what you’ve done in the last year. Think about how you’ve been acting for the last 2+ years. And while you’re at it, try to find my daughter for me cause the girl standing in front of me is not my daughter. My daughter is a sweet girl that does her homework the day she gets it even if it’s not due for a month, she wants to dance and play basketball, she wants to go to college, my daughter wouldn’t throw her whole life away for some party, or alcohol & drugs, or even a fling” Paige says tearing up that she even has to say this

Saylor just looks at the ground and makes her way upstairs and to her room, getting in her bed and under the covers finally letting the tears fall.

I’m such a disappointment is all that is ringing through her head

@melpthatsme

[milliesfishes]

౨ৎ꣑ৎacademic rivals with coryo౨ৎ꣑ৎ fem reader x coriolanus snow

Popping a pink candy heart into your mouth, you let it melt on your tongue for a moment before looking down at the paper in front of you. One final sentence ought to do the trick. There were twenty minutes left on the clock, and you were determined to be the first one finished.

The atmosphere of the room was tense, and the feeling nearly fueled you as you scribbled down your last few words, mind racing. The adrenaline was something you thrived off of, something that drove you to straight As and perfect scores. You chased it like nothing else, the high enough to keep you going. Nothing else had ever given you that feeling. Maybe it was stupid and nerdy but you didn't care. This was a good thing to be obsessive over, you told yourself. This would get you into a future free of worry over things like money and status. This was your ticket through the door. Your first-class ticket.

Getting to your feet, you clutched your essay tight, crumpling the edge just slightly as you hurried to the front, where the teacher's desk was waiting like a beacon. A lighthouse guiding you to the number one spot in your class. You rushed forward, nearly bouncing with excitement, slamming down your paper a split second before someone else did.

Frowning, you turned your head, only to see the bright blue, slightly narrowed eyes of Coriolanus Snow fixed on you. You couldn't help the way your lips turned up, just slightly. If he was in a comic strip, steam would be coming out of his ears.

Straightening yourself and ignoring the dirty look your teacher was giving you both, you flicked a strand of hair over your shoulder, putting one foot in front of the other until you reached your seat. Snatching up your bag quietly, as not to disturb your still-testing classmates, you confidently made your way out of the room, the look on Coriolanus' face fueling your fire.

Your shoes clicked a beat you wanted to dance to as you walked down the empty hallway. Stopping at the trophy case, you pulled a tube of pink lipstick from your bag, leaning in and touching up in the reflection.

"Don't gloat."

When you heard Coriolanus' voice, you didn't turn, instead taking your sweet time finishing with your makeup. Capping your lipstick with a click, you turned to face him and his stupid, picture perfect face, his blonde curls and oceanic eyes. "I wasn't going to."

"Right." His bag was slung over his shoulder, and your eyes lingered on the way the strap pulled the collar of his shirt just so. "Just because you turned it in first, doesn't mean you'll get a better score."

"I think it means my mind works faster," you countered, tucking your lipstick away and stepping closer to him. He held his chin high, searching your eyes as if he wasn't sure what you were going to do. Seeing Coriolanus Snow perplexed was one of your favorite expressions on him.

Leaning up so your nose was nearly touching him, you blinked, looking at him through your lashes. "Don't you think?" You were surprised he was letting you get this close. He remained unmoving, stiff as a marble statue.

Coriolanus didn't respond. He raised his eyebrows, corners of his mouth twitching. You leaned in, cheekily pressing your freshly painted lips to his cheek and then pulling back. Smiling sweetly, you turned on your heel, strutting away to the doors leading outside.

You only caught a brief glimpse of the pink lipstick kiss you left on his cheek, matching his blush.

[hypernova-writes]

The Doctor's Match

Synopsis: The Administrator has decided to finally give Medic some much needed help on the battlefield, despite the male insisting he doesn't need it. But what happens when the Mad doctor finally meets his match?..

Pairing(s): Medic x 10th Class! Reader focused Pairing Name?: Medical Malpractice (Medic/The Nurse), Length: 3.4k words

A/n: GUYS GUYS I HOPE YOU ENJOY THISSSS, I was inspired by some of my fellow writers who are writing fanfics where they make the reader a specific class!! (Speaking of which I HIGHLY suggest the Respawn Malfunction Fic by the lovely the-teufort-nine)

"Ach, I don't really need help Miss Pauling, vhile I appreciate zhe thought—"

Medic was caught off by Miss Pauling's sheepish grin and hand raise. "I know I know, but think about it. You'll have help with surgeries, everyone wouldn't be screaming your name on the battlefield.. unless you like that—"

Medic tapped his glove to his chin. While he didn't necessarily need the help, it would be a great assistance to not have hear everyone screaming "MEDIC" on the battlefield. And to have someone who was on his level, that thought just like him when it came to medicine and other scientific discovering's?

It didn't sound that bad.

But then again, what if this person could be just as annoying as his teammates? What if they didn't help him out as he thought they would? He couldn't risk that!

However, on the flip side...what if they are perfect? They help him on the battles field, they help him with studies that he wanted to conduct. They might even let him experiment on THEM!

He hummed and sighed before dropping his hands to his side.

"Fine, Fine. I vill accept zhis..'help'."

"Good! Cause she'll be here tomorrow!"

Medic didn't have time to process what Miss Pauling had said because she left so quickly, rambling off about finishing finalization before their newest member gets there.

"She?.." Medic trailed off before he left his office to go and join the others in the dining area. Dinner was just being prepared when Scout called out to Medic.

"Ayyeee Doc! You heard about that newbie we getting? Hope he can keep up wit ya!" The rambunctious Boston yelled and Medic only rolled his eyes as he took a seat.

"I can only hope zhat SHE can deal vith the daily stupidity zhat I deal vith each day." Medic corrects Scout and that draws attention from some of the others.

"Oh? So our new help is going to be a Woman?..I pray for her." Spy muttered as he takes a drag from his cigarette. "Wonder what made zhe little lady chose here?"

"Don't kno', but it's best we treat her wit' respect fellas, she could be mighty useful round here when Medic is busy." Engineer chimed in. "Best to have two docs than one."

"Da, Engineer is right. Little lady can make big difference in life or death in battle. We treat her like we treat Doctor." Heavy adds on making Medic nod along.

"Zhere should be nothing to vorry about~, she'll be trained under zhe best!" "That makes me worry even more, I hope she's not a nutcase like you are-" "Vhat vas zhat Scout?" "Nothin'! Nothin' at all doc…"

Medic huffed as he fixed his labcoat. "Zhat's vhat I thought." He muttered before he walked back to his lab. When he walked in, he already saw a second door already installed in his medbay, kinda of similar to the one that led to his private quarters. But it had a different medical like logo. ‘Zhey work fast..” he thought as he decided to go into his room.

He needed to prepare for the new guest coming tomorrow

The mercs were all sitting together after another successful day of kicking BLU ass.

Scout, Soldier, Demoman and Pyro were sitting together, Spy and Sniper were playing cards, Engineer was moving around some things in the kitchen and Heavy was with Medic at a separate table.

Soft humming could be heard coming down the Hallway, along with a suitcase being dragged behind light footsteps. The click of heels against the hard floor of the base echoed, they didn’t really pay any attention to the sounds assuming it was Miss Pauling bringing something that they needed to go over.

That was until they heard the voice.

"Hello there fellas~!"

The guys all lifted their heads to see a woman, dressed in long nurses dress with a pretty white apron over it. She had a matching logo patch to Medic's with a syringe over the cross, she wore pink gloves that went up to her elbows, her hair was neatly tucked back into a low bun with the nurses hat on. She had a big smile on her face as she walked further into the room drawing all attention to her.

"My name is Y/n, and I will be your new nurse around these parts~! Now could someone please kindly tell me who is your head Medical specialist.?"

Scout rolled his eyes before he allowed a sly smirk to come across his face. "I wouldn't call him a professional toots…but he's ova there wit the large guy."

The woman, Who they now know is Y/n, thanks Scout with a pretty smile that had the young male blushing already but Spy knocked him in the back of the head.

“Oi! What the hell was that for??” “You’re making googoo eyes at zhe new hire.” “What? She’s cute! Ow! Seriously man! That hurts! “Zhen stop being such an idiot.”

Medic and Heavy were engrossed in a conversation when Y/n walks up next to them and starts to introduce herself.

“Hello! I was told that one of you was the doctor here, I’m going to guess it’s you sir..” She says pointing to medic. Medic looked her up and down and his heart felt like it was doing tricks already.

She was…beautiful.

She was everything that he had imagined in his head last night. Her beauty, her kindness, and Medic could already tell that a little something…unhinged lay right beneath the surface.

Heavy had to nudge the male because he was just staring at the beauty in front of him. Medic quickly cleared his throat before giving a grin to her.

“Ah yes! Zhat vould be me! I am guessing jou are zhe nurse, yes?” He finally managed to get out, making the woman infront of him giggle as she sits down across from him.

“Yes that’s me! I’ve heard such good this about you! I can’t wait to work alongside you in the field!”

Medic nodded as he leaned on his hand as he listened to her ramble on about how much she loved nursing and how her experience on the field was sure to lighten his load and help him the best way that she could.

As she continued to speak, Medic just nodded along and occasionally added to the conversation. He was so focused on her, he was imagining the two of them in battle together, covering in the enemy teams blood. He couldn’t wait to do the uber heart surgery on her so he could see and feel her from the inside out…

“Medic.”

Oh how beautiful she would look beside him.

“Medic?”

Oh how beautiful she would look underneath him—

“MEDIC”

Medic jumped as he shook his head, Heavy shook his head as he looked at his fellow merc. “You spaced out, Little nurse said she was going to bed.” Heavy states and Medic sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck as he apologized to Y/n.

“Oh no no! You’re fine! I know you’re probably tired after this long day..” “Ja..The battle was very…tough.” Medic quickly says, making her giggle. “Oh well I'm not going to stop you, please go and get some rest for tomorrow!”

Y/n then backed away from the two males as she bowed and gave them a gentle wave. "Goodnight fellas! Can't wait to be beside you on the battlefield!" She happily exclaimed before she turned on her heel and left the room finally.

Once she left the room, Heavy looked over at Medic. “Medic is infatuated with little nurse.”

Medic looked at his friend and colleague, rapidly shaking his head. “Vhat? No! She’s just…really..amazing I guess. It’s rare to see someone as interested in the pursuit of science as I am!” He quickly says as he looked away from Heavy, pulling at his collar.

Heavy only chuckles as he pats Medic on his back. “You are terrible liar.”

Was all he said before he left Medic at the table alone to think. And of course, his mind went to the beautiful nurse that just graced their presence. He HAD to get to know her better.

He couldn’t just let her get away with messing with his head like this!

He will do it tomorrow! He would get to know her after working alongside her for the first time! After all, He had to know why a lovely lady like herself would come and work here and let alone be excited to work with someone like him…

Oh Boy, Did he quickly realize why he was so drawn to her.

She. Was. Crazy.

Once the Nurse set foot on the battlefield, that adorable and charming personality that she displayed to the others at dinner the other day was quickly replaced by a wicked bloodlust.

She was taking down the enemy teams left and right, assisting their teammates with a scary accuracy.

And she was smiling while doing it.

Her main weapon? A large syringe, one that he witnessed her stab and spear the enemy team, harvesting their blood and using it almost as some sort of wicked power source. He could've sworn that hearts formed in his eyes as he looked upon her on the battlefield. She didn’t care that she was getting blood on her at all, the way that it splattered across her clothes and she wore it with excited glee.

He was so busy day dreaming that He wasn’t paying attention, leaving him open for a backstab from the enemy Spy when he heard her call out to him.

“DOCTOR BEHIND YOU!” Medic didn’t have time to turn around before he saw the enemy spy...with a syringe needle through his back.

He stood back watching as his body turned to goop, and was collected by the Nurse, seeing it go into her own medivac.

“Are you alright? I followed the bastard after he tried to backstab, Engineer.” Y/n said to him as she offered her hand, helping Medic from the ground.

She holds his hand for a little bit as she checks over him, making sure that he wasn’t injured at all. She places her hand on his chest, making Medic jolt as she did it so suddenly. “Are you alright? Your heart is beating quite fast..”

Medic coughs into his hand before he backs away, nodding at her question. “Ja, I’m okay..Guess my heart rate is up after almost being backstabbed…”

Y/n gave him an eyebrow rise before she accepted his answer.

“Alright..if you say so. Then, Let’s go Doctor. I can hear our teammates screaming for us now.” Y/n turns to leave, expecting Medic to follow.

And follow he did, intrigued as he watched as she pressed a button on her MediVac, watching as she placed her syringe into a slot, and watched as the blood started to bubble and boil, turning into a molten weapon.

Y/n looked over her shoulder at him and gave him a wink before she ran off to go and cater to their injured teammates. Leaving him once again, speechless. He could feel a shiver trail down his spine as a smile broke out across his face.

“Mein..Gott..she's perfect…” He mumbled to himself.

He watched as Y/n reached over to Scout, shooting him with a syringe, the Bostonian yelled in pain before feeling a surging feeling. He suddenly cheered and gave Y/n a high five before running back into battle. Healing syringes, he remembered her talking about it briefly the night before.

She was so giddy and excited to have someone to ramble about her work, that Medic stayed nearly all night with her despite knowing that they had to be up the next morning. But that didn’t matter, seeing her happy, talking about a subject that most would squirm and ignore was all he needed.

God...was he falling in love with his colleague?! She had only been here for a few days, yet the bubbly and giddy nurse had managed to worm her way into his heart in less than a week.

Never has someone made him so weak in the knees whenever they would look his way.

Mein gott was he embarassing—

“ Medic! I need you!” “Coming Mein Nurse!~”

Y/n giggles as she shows off to Medic. Her main weapon, the syringe was used to collect samples, blood samples of the enemy and turn that into boiling liquid, almost like scalding water, giving the enemy team a burning and scalding effect that worked perfectly alongside Pyro.

She had a syringe Gun as well, filled with different syringes of various effects, some that could heal her teammates, some That could burn and melt the enemy skin, it all depended on who she aimed it at, as he saw earlier with her little display on Scout.

“Ahh..could you believe i almost lost my medical License because of this technology, I guess they didn't like me testing on murderers..” She mentioned sparking Medic's interest.

“Vait, jou made this yourself?” He asked and she nodded proudly. “Mhm! Did all the research Myself, I was a bio-chem major before I turned to nursing.” Y/n answered. “Took me a couple months to perfect, nearly burned a hole through my lab floor.

The two of them were walking together and just talking About previous experiments and things that they have done.

“Wait, you stole a skeleton?” “Several actually, it's how I lost my medical license.” Y/n giggled at that, before reaching for his hand. “You know, I could use mine, if..you ever needed..help,”

Medic froze a bit, her hand felt small in his as he grasped her hand, the two of them ended up facing each other.

“Jou..vould do zhat? For me?” “Of course~, Ya know , it's not everyday when you find someone who's so persistent in the pursuit of science like you.” “Oh really now?” “Yes really! It’s the least I could do for making you listen to my rambling about needles for two hours.”

Medic couldn't stop the smile that spread to his lips. “Jou know, I could listen to you read zhe most boring book in zhe vorld and I vould never get tired. “

It was Y/n’s turn to blush as she felt his hand come up to caress her blood soaked cheek. “Oh Medic..you’re just saying that..”

Medic chuckles and he was about to speak again when a loud yell broke through.

“Oi! Doc! Need some Help ova here! Could you stop makin’ googoo eyes wit the nurse!?”

Oh right, they were still in battle.

“Ve'll continue zhis later.” “We shall.”

The two of them readied their gear again as Y/n grasped his hand tightly turning to him with a smirk.

“Let’s go practice Medicine~” She says to him and Medic feels like his body was just lit on fire by pyro as a wolfish grin appears on his face.

When they would reach the enemy team, Y/n would signal to Medic that she was ready and he would nod to her before he would turn on his uber charge. He had only done the surgery on her yesterday, and while he was excited to see how it would work on a new host…

He hoped that it wouldn’t harm her.

Once he activated it Y/n jolted a bit before she started that boiling mass of liquid in her backpack. Medic watched as it was almost like she was spraying hot oil onto the enemy, They moved through the enemy, mowing them down like they were nothing but bugs underneath their feet.

...God did she look like a glowing red goddess...

The entire time Y/n was…laughing, giggling as she used her weapon on the enemy. Giddy as she saw how their bodies basically melted into nothing but BLU goo. It sent a shiver up his spine when she turned to him and gave him that award winning smile with a wink

He watched as the rest of their team came in to help capture the final point, most of them careful to step over or around the various piles of goo around the point.

The Uber charge wore off and Y/n squealed with glee before she ran up to Medic and grabbed his shoulders. “Oh my GOD that was AMAZING!!” She screamed with delight, once again catching Medic off guard.

“Ach..it vas nothing, it vas most—” Medic didn’t get to finish his sentence before he felt himself being dipped, and a pair of lips being pressed against his own.

Medic turned a bright red as his glasses fogged up. He felt light headed and when she finally let him up, they were declared the winners as they had successfully claimed the last point. When he regained himself, Y/n was standing infront of him with a big smile on her face as if she didn’t just KISS HIM.

“Did jou just–” “Yes i did. Would you like me to do it again?”

Medic looked back as he saw his teammates already heading back in, talks of celebrating and what they were going to eat in the air. Medic chuckles as he lifted the nurse into his arms.

“Ja, I vould…but if forgive me if i’m greedy and vant more~”

Now it was Y/n’s turn to blush as Medic carried her back inside to continue their own little form of celebration for winning.

“Man, I don't know if it's a blessin’ or a curse we got that nurse!”

Scout groaned as he knocked back a bonk! Atomic Punch, Engineer, who was playing cards with Demo and Soldier, tilts his head.

“What makes ya say that boy? I think it's great the Doc has himself A lovely lady that can keep up with him.” He chuckles as he turned back to the card game, watching as Scout took a seat with them.

“That's the problem! They are both nuts! I overheard them talking about doing surgery on each otha’ to put their hearts in each otha's body! That's weird!”

“Well, Son, that might just be their form of love-” “Then i pray dat form of love neva finds me!"

Engineer laughs as Demoman pats His back. “Aye lad, are ya still mad that the doc almost let you die because he was flirtin’?

“No! I'm just sayin’! They are weird!” “He's definitely still upset!” “I agree with Engineer!” “Course ya do Soldier! You prolly don't even know what we're talking about!”

Y/n and Medic were definitely closer after that battle, they were wrapped around each other's fingers. Always around each other.

When they had mission debriefing, she was sitting in his lap.

When it was time for their checkups? They were definitely giving PDA.

Speaking of which, the duo walked past them heading to the door.

Scout groaned in frustration before he looked up seeing Medic walking with Y/n. “And where are yall headin’ Out to? Ain't dinner about to start?”

Y/n smiles as she hugs Medic's arm. “Luddy has prepared a picnic for us~! We're going outside to enjoy each other's company, and talk about medical stuff~”

Medic nuzzled her forehead. “Ja, mein liebling and i vill be busy for the rest of the night, so please don't have any medical emergencies, jou might not like what you walk into.”

The duo laughs together as Medic leads her outside, opening the door and closing it behind them, leaving their coworkers To go back to what they were doing.

“Ugh..disgusting!” “Sounds like you're jealous sonny.” “How!? Jealous of what?” “Affirmative! Sounds like you are jealous that he has a proud American woman!” “Is she even bloody american?” “Course she is! That woman is a pure blooded American soldier!”

The four men ended up bickering about this, while Heavy who was coming from the kitchen quickly interjected.

“Lets just be happy Doctor has met match.” He started. “Means no more experimenting on us when he has a willing participant. She is perfect for him. Just a crazy as doctor.”

The others went quiet and Scout, the main one who was making a fuss crossed his arms. “I guess tons of fun ova’ here is right.”

Heavy rolled his eyes at Scout before taking a seat. “Deal me in. Besides. Tomorrow is ceasefire. Doctor is gonna be busy with little nurse.”

“What do ya mean by dat?” “I think you know what I mean.” “You could've jus’ Left us in the dark with that info Son.” “if I had to suffer listening to doctor ramble about it, you do too.” "NONSENSE THEY ARE JUST DISCUSSING BATTLE STRATEGIES" "Yea if strategies included fucki- OW WHERE IN THE HELL DID YOU COME FROM YA SPOOK!?" "I've been here zhe entire time, could you all please just deal zhe cards and not talk about what our doctors are doing."

GAHHH FINALLYYY ITS DONNNEEE

I plan on writing more with them, so be prepared for more Medical Malpractice— but until then, please be safe and take care of yourselves!

[benkeibear]

⛧°。 ⋆༺ 𝐀𝐋𝐊𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐄 ༻⋆。 °⛧

𝑆𝘩𝑒'𝑠 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑎𝑐𝑖𝑑 𝑛𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑘𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑒, 𝑐𝑎𝑢𝑔𝘩𝑡 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑏𝑙𝑎𝑐𝑘 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑤𝘩𝑖𝑡𝑒 - 𝑁𝑜𝑡 𝑞𝑢𝑖𝑡𝑒 𝑒𝑖𝑡𝘩𝑒𝑟 𝑑𝑎𝑦 𝑜𝑟 𝑛𝑖𝑔𝘩𝑡

𝐼𝑓 𝑎𝑛𝑦𝑡𝘩𝑖𝑛𝑔, 𝑠𝘩𝑒'𝑠 𝑎𝑛 𝑢𝑛𝑑𝑖𝑠𝑐𝑜𝑣𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡. 𝐸𝑖𝑡𝘩𝑒𝑟 𝑏𝑜𝑟𝑛 𝑖𝑛 𝘩𝑒𝑙𝑙 𝑜𝑟 𝘩𝑒𝑎𝑣𝑒𝑛 𝑠𝑒𝑛𝑡 - 𝐵𝑢𝑡 𝑒𝑖𝑡𝘩𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑎𝑦 𝐼'𝑚 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑜 𝑖𝑡

༺ synopsis: After getting saved from a, what you assumed to be, cannibal, you are left with no choice but to tag along with your savior and his companions. You might learn their names but their conversations cause more questions to arise... and what do they mean with "you're not a bloodsucker yet"???

༺ characters: Yuuji Itadori, Nanami Kento, Satoru Gojo

༺ reader: female | AFAB

༺ wc: 3050

༺ cw: mentions of cannibalism and vampires, Y/N used once to introduce yourself, broken bones and injuries

༺ notes: chapter 2 is finally here and you get to know your companions that you'll stick with for some time - or at least until you figure out how to get back

MASTERLIST // Taglist

<- Previous Chapter // -> Next chapter (coming soon)

“What are you waiting for? Run!” The blonde man called out to you quite angrily, snapping you out of the shell shock, but your legs barely carried you, letting you stumble away from the scene…

⛧°。 ⋆༺ ————— ༻⋆。 °⛧

It felt like the world around you crumbled apart to dust and the trees slowly fell apart into their singular atoms as you ran, legs numb but carrying you steady so you may escape whatever you just encountered. To be quite honest, you didn't want to have anything to do with it, your head was hurting just thinking about that creep who wanted to quite literally take a bite out of you.

As your mind raced with far too many thoughts, your eyesight betrayed you and the world started to become a haze of blurred colors and black dots clouding your vision. The heavy beating of your heart was once again all you could hear when your ears seemingly shut themselves off to the world around you. Run he said… but where to? What am I supposed to do in the middle of a forest unknown to me? Your thoughts were slowly turning darker and you wondered just where the beautiful lights at the lake and its path disappeared to, making you wonder just where exactly you were.

Just as you were about to bend over to catch a breath, the frantic running straining your stamina, you ran into a figure once again. Your heart stopped beating for a moment when you collided with a warm body, terrified that the creep from before got to you once again.

Before you tumbled to the ground ass first, he caught you by your upper arm. Your eyes were shut tight as you braced yourself for a harsh impact with the ground beneath, but it never came - instead you felt a warm hand holding you by your biceps. The grip was tight, but nowhere near painful and it felt so comfortably warm.

“Now, now, little lady. You should watch where you walk next time. You could have run into trouble headfirst!” He exclaimed amused and made sure you were standing steady before letting go of you again. His white hair seemed to glow underneath the moonlight and his blue eyes were eyeing you like a piece of meat he was about to devour at his dinner table.

“My boyfriend is right behind me! Don't you dare take a bite out of me too, you pervert!” You spat a lie, trying to sound brave, but it only made the man in front of you laugh, earning a disapproving noise from the smaller male standing a little further to the side. You didn't even notice him until then.

“You'll only scare her off! Can't you smell Nanamin on her?” He asked the white haired man and moved a step closer to you, which prompted you to take a step backwards.

The strawberry blonde man held his hands up in defense, his eyes softening when he saw just how frightened you really were - rightfully so. You were in the middle of a forest surrounded by men.

“I won't hurt you… But you should put this on,” he slowly took off his cloak and held it out to you, his arm extended towards you as far as possible so you wouldn't have to get too close.

Cautiously you took one step towards the young man and snatched his cloak as if he would change his mind about the generous offer. It was an, what you would consider oldschool, dark grey cloak made out of felted wool to keep out the wind and rain. With trembling hands you wrapped the piece around your freezing body and relished in the warmth it still kept from being worn by the man in front of you. Only the smell was displeasing - wet dog.

“What were you doing out here anyway? Especially in that… less than appropriate gown?” The white haired man asked as he looked at his friend interacting with you, his head cocked to the side in a curious manner.

“And all by your own,” the strawberry blonde man added, sounding more concerned than accusatory, but you still took offense by it. They were right, though - what were you doing out here anyway?

“I-” you started, but your mouth opened and closed again like a fish on land. Should you tell the truth or try to give them a convincing lie?

“To be quite frank, I don't know what I was doing either,” you mumbled defeated, which caused the younger man's face to fall, looking even more concerned for you now.

“and the gown? If one can even call that…” The white haired man judged your lack of clothes once again. Wearing only an oversized sweater wasn't appropriate nor wise and you knew that, but it's not like you planned on taking a swim or getting chased through the woods by a perverted cannibal.

“We can question her at the village,” a voice from behind startled you, almost causing you to hide behind the man who lent you his cloak.

The blonde man who saved you from said creep was back and despite his clothes having a tear at his arm, soaked with blood, he looked well put together and not even slightly disheveled.

Both men agreed with him, not even questioning him for a single second and he didn't acknowledge you further, only staring you down sternly. His gaze screamed do not argue. You will come with us now and as much as you wanted to tell him to shove it, you decided it's best to tag along for now. After all, he saved you and his two companions were perhaps a little rude, but they were showing no signs of wanting to murder, violate, or eat you, so you deemed them safe - you would still sleep with one eye open, though.

The blonde man walked on without any more words exchanged and the other two followed, expecting you to walk alongside them as well, which you did. Trying your best to keep up, you made sure to stay at least one step behind the small group, out of respect, uncertainty, or whatever told you it's best to keep them at arm's length.

Your position behind the small group gave you enough time to observe them, their features, their clothes and mostly their conversations - which barely made sense to you, so you gave up on that soon. The strawberry blonde haired man, however, caught your eye, one arm carefully cradled to his chest most of the walk until he pointed at something with it once. Without realizing it, a small gasp left your mouth at the sight: His arm was bent at a weird angle, blood sticking to his beige linen shirt that was torn below the elbow, the rest of the sleeve used as a makeshift bandage. Cautiously you walked up to him.

“If you hand me a first aid kit, I could bandage it up until we get to the nearest hospital,” you offer friendly, although carefully. His expression crunches up for a moment as if you're talking a foreign language.

“A first aid what? And we’re not going towards that… Hospital you've mentioned. We go home,” he pointed out, seemingly confused by your sentence. It took you off guard, but you shook your head, refusing to back down.

“A doctor needs to see this… your arm is broken!” You protest and gesture to his arm. Your conversation now caught the attention of the other two men, given that you raised your voice.

“A healer?” The white haired man questioned, which only made you sigh.

“A doctor, a healer. Whatever you call it, but his arm is broken!” You were truly outraged at how they didn't seem to care about it, not even the poor guy himself seemed very fazed.

“Oh that? It's an old wound, it will be healed in no time,” he reassured you, but it only caused more question marks to appear over your head. The wound was old? The blood was freshly dried and it looked no older than two, maybe three, hours.

“He will see a healer once we’re back at our castle. He will be fine soon,” the blonde man said stoically without even looking back to where the three of you were having a heated discussion about seeing a doctor.

The injured man gave you a small smile and nodded, knowing that he had already said too much, but he hoped that the other man's words would help you feel more at ease.

His steps slowed down to match your pace and he studied your face for a moment, your eyes flickering nervously under his intense gaze.

“My name is Yuuji, I don't think I've introduced myself appropriately yet,” he rubbed the back of his neck in a sheepish manner while he gave you a charming grin.

You tried to give the strawberry blonde man a genuine smile, but the corners of your mouth barely managed to move upwards.

“Nice to meet you, Yuuji. I’m Y/N,” you introduced yourself, not quite knowing if offering a hand is appropriate given that he's hurt and using his other arm to steady the injured one.

The white haired man repeated your name a few times, giving it a lot of pronunciations and butchering it before rolling it on his tongue a few more times.

“What a beautiful name for such a beautiful lady. My name is Satoru, but I'm sure you'll be screaming it soon,” he winked at you as he walked backwards. Both his arms were up as he rested his hands against the back of his head, but his words made you shudder, unsure if it was with disgust or cringe.

“Don't pay him any mind, he tries to flirt with everything that has a pulse.” Yuuji apologized for his companion, cringing at his words as well.

Satoru gently pushed Yuuji in a playful manner and the two men engaged in playful banter while you tried to catch up with your savior.

“May I ask your name…sir?” You asked quite shy, unsure if you should address him as sir or more casually, but he seemed well respected by the other two.

“Kento. Kento Nanami," he replied cold and looked at you out of the corner of his eye.

“The sir is unnecessary. I’m not that old yet.” He seemed to feel your uncertainty and for a single second, a small smile made its way onto his lips.

You simply nod to the newly acquired information, figuring that he caught your name from the previous conversation since he seemed to follow it in silence.

“Once we’re back, I will make sure the maids dress you properly,” he looked down at you with a certain disdain, the corners of his mouth dropping as if he was disgusted.

“You're dressed even less decently than a lady working at the alehouse,” he added, which caused you to frown, pulling the cloak of Yuuji around you tighter.

“I’m not- I was simply out on a stroll because-” you protested, but he swiftly cut you off before you could try to explain your situation.

“I do not care. All I know is that a woman coming out of this very lake only means trouble,” he shut you down quite harshly, waving his hand in a dismissive manner.

If Nanami was quite honest, he didn't want you anywhere near him or his companions, but he could never live with himself if he wouldn't have helped you. It was almost as natural as breathing to him, putting his own life at risk if it meant being able to save others who were less fortunate than him. It was different with you, though, he considered leaving you to be sucked dry like a raisin after seeing that other man's reaction to you - and now your talks of doctors, kits and hospitals - Nanami was certain that you weren't from around here and that only meant bad news.

“Maybe it's not like that!” Yuuji quipped in unprompted and it made no sense to you - maybe it's not like what?

By now you were as sure as one can be that there's something going on that all three of them are hiding from you and you were unsure if you wanted to know just what it was. Deciding it's best to let them have their secrets for now, you didn't question what exactly the young man meant.

“Then she's your responsibility. Take care of her,” Nanami barked back the order, making you feel like you're some sort of unwanted pet that Yuuji gathered from the street.

“I can take great care of myself, thanks,” you grumbled and fell back again, no longer wanting to have a conversation with the blonde man since you were such a huge bother in his life.

Only a few seconds later, Yuuji was back at your side and gave you a small smile, hoping you're not too hurt by Nanami's words, he can be harsh sometimes, but he means well.

“I know you can take care of yourself, but if anything happens, I won't hesitate to help you, okay?” He asked carefully, gauging your reaction, but when you nodded at him, his smile grew in size.

A comfortable silence fell amongst the four of you as you walked on for what felt like an eternity - and it must have been quite a few hours, given that the sun had begun to rise and illuminated the forest in a soft glow of orange hues, which allowed you to see more clearly. At this point you weren't sure how far you had wandered from the castle, although it slowly dawned on you that returning there anytime soon was not in your cards. Sighing to yourself, you looked back towards the way you came from, silently mourning your old life as you mentally prepared yourself for whatever the path ahead of you had in store - as the unwanted pet, companion, or whatever you were to the three men who saved you from that pesky cannibal just mere hours ago.

At one point your legs were stinging from the cold morning air, the cloak only doing so much to keep the cold out of your drenched clothes and you were able to feel the cold slowly sinking into your skin and deep into your bones. It delicately wrapped itself around each limb, traveling through your entire body like a whisper, slowing your heartbeat and dulling your senses. Your breath looked like a frosty mist with each exhale in front of you, blending into the thin layer of fog that surrounded you and without noticing it, your body became suspended in a tranquil stillness - unable to move much further as it slowed down your system.

“Hey, get up. It's not far anymore." Yuuji’s voice sounded concerned, although distant, as you looked at him with half lidded eyes.

The cold spread through your torso and your lungs felt as if they were cast in a layer of ice, frozen from the inside.

With some strength, you shake your head and look at him, reminding him of a fawn that is yet to take its first steps. Utterly helpless.

“Come here. I'll carry you,” he mumbled and crouched down in front of you, expecting you to climb onto his back.

“Your arm…” Your protest was weak, but he simply dismissed your concern as he hoisted you onto his back himself.

With every step Yuuji took, you melted further into his back, slumping against him as your head rested upon his shoulders. Your limbs went numb and unresponsive, but his body heat provided a great comfort as the first snowflakes started to fall from the gloomy sky, navigating their fall through the few trees that surrounded you - you were almost out of the forest and an open field was ahead of you. The grass wore a thin layer of morning dew that Jack Frost himself must have placed there, every little drop looking like a small diamond as the cold weather slowly froze the world around you.

In the depths of your slumber, you see a woman whose heart was missing as she walks a path that inevitably leads to nothing but flames scorching high enough to reach the horizon above. You can feel the air thicken as she continues her path, but the weight of her love wraps around you like a warm blanket when she smiles softly at a shadowed figure. Who was she?

“Don't follow me,” you hear her voice loud and clear when it was just a whisper as she stepped into the flames that loomed at the end of the path - not a single sign of remorse on her face as her burning body sinks into the arms of the shadowed figure until she is nothing but dust.

When your eyes flutter open, you hope to see your fiancé lying next to you, that all of this was just a bad dream - yet the sorrow of watching this woman turn to ashes clung to your mind as if it's a fresh memory.

Once your eyes adjusted to the light, a pair of bright blue eyes looked right back at you, a grin forming on his lips as well… And were those… fingers in your mouth?

Out of pure shock, you clamp your jaw shut, biting the white haired man in the process, who quickly cradled his now bleeding finger to his chest before licking at the bleeding wound like a hurt kitten.

“Feisty one, aren't ya?” Satoru asked amused as he chuckled. He didn't seem to be mad at you for biting him, surely he would have done the same if the roles were reversed.

“Feisty but not one of them… yet,” he further announced with a huge grin to Nanami, who sat at the table just a few steps away from the quite uncomfortable bed you were laid on.

“Not one of them? Yet?” You questioned worried, your eyes darting back and forth between both men until the door burst open to reveal Yuuji trotting inside with some bread and a glass of water.

“Not a pesky bloodsucker!” He explained thrilled as if this was the most natural thing to announce. Not a... bloodsucker?

Networks: @pixelcafe-network @interstellar-inn @houseofsolisoccasum

[cjsmalley]

Party, Wedding, and Time:

It was an ambush.

Marinette was walking home alone. Still flushed and happy from Adrien properly asking her to the upcoming impromptu dance that night, when someone strong grabbed her from behind and another put a large bag over her.

She fought back like a feral raccoon, not even thinking about transforming.

“Quit fighting, DC!” Chloe’s voice rang out sharply, commandingly, “This’s for your own good!”

Marinette went limp; she was hefted across a pair of shoulders and moved into a vehicle, which started at Chloe’s command.

The bag was pulled off her, it was a laundry bag from Chloe’s hotel, to find at least half the class looking at her. All the girls, Marc and Kim.

“What’s going on?” Marinette demanded, none of them looked to be akumas so why had they kidnapped her?

“We’re getting you ready for the dance,” Ayla said, eye twitching as she continued, “Chloe’s in charge.”

Chloe was busy texting someone but she looked up, “Sabrina and the boys are on Adrien; Adrien knows how to dress himself. You, on the other hand, have to be taught certain standards now that you’re dating Adrien. Don’t worry, do as I say and we’ll all get through this with our dignity intact.”

“Guys, it’s just—”

“Your first official dance with Adrien,” Ayla reminded her, beaming at her blush and shy nod, “we’re gonna make sure you look so beautiful he can’t even think!”

“Why is Kim here if the boys are—”

“Someone had to grab you, duh.”

Chloe left unsaid that taking Ladybug by surprise should not have been possible and that they were all lucky that Marinette hadn’t transformed, “By the way, I’m signing you up for self-defense lessons, DC. And paying for it. You’re dating a former model, and he still has fans. Fans that get crazy.”

Chloe so wanted to tell Marinette that she knew the Secret but kept mum about it. She did not want to make herself a bigger target, thank you very much. But she could make sure Ladybug could at least fight half-way decently while a civilian.

“I don’t—Chloe, you can’t—”

“Oh, I can, I will, I already have. Six months, weekly appointments, one-on-one with a handpicked instructor. At the Hotel. And I will have a car pick you up for them.” Chloe threatened, nicely.

“She’s right, girl,” Ayla admitted, “you remember that crazy stalker Lila? If Adrien’s new dad hadn’t put his foot down who knows what she could have pulled. And Lila was only verbal threats, right?”

Everyone was looking at her expectantly so Marinette slumped, “I’ll ask my parents—”

“Already did,” Chloe flipped her hair, “Daddy talked to them. They were happy to agree, especially after the trouble with the crazy bitch.”

“Language!”

“Sorry, not sorry, Anciel. Grow up.”

The limousine finally pulled up to the Hotel and Marinette was escorted to a dressing room where a professional hairdresser and a professional makeup artist were waiting. She was marched into the chair while Ayla and Chloe left; they returned, a half hour later, with the dress Marinette had been working on in her spare time for formal events. And the fabrics needed for it.

Then Marinette saw Chloe slip a cookie into Marinette’s purse and gaped, eyes wide in fear.

Chloe caught her eye and nodded, making the motions to zip her lips and throw away the key.

Still Marinette mentally fretted even as she forced herself to relax; Chloe knew the Secret, her most precious Secret. Did she know Adrien’s? Did anyone else know?

“Relax, DC,” Chloe said, picking up the purse, “I’ve got it handled. I’ll keep your purse safe tonight."

And all Marinette could do was trust her.

A seamstress came in, was given Marinette’s notes on the dress, and set to work finishing it as Marinette herself was prepared.

“Adrien’s suit—” Marinette began, for she had made Adrien a suit that tastefully matched her dress.

“Already delivered, DC,” Chloe was perched somewhere behind her, also getting ready. The entire class was, “Got Daddy’s best tailor on him doing final fittings. Everyone else has last year’s clothes to wear. Except me. I was smart, ordered a dress for just such an event.”

“Chloe had her people pick up our clothes as soon as we heard,” Ayla added, “relax, girl. Everything’s covered.”

“The school—as class president, I—”

“Professional party planners,” Chloe sighed at her, “don’t be so ridiculous, DC. When I say don’t worry, I mean it.”

And so Marinette shut her mouth and let the stylists get on with their work.

Unbeknownst to her, Adrien was in another dressing room in the hotel, also being prepped under the watchful eye of Sabrina and the boys of the class.

With Marinette the girls were in overdrive, treating the entire event like…well, a wedding or something equally serious.

“Something old!” Chloe ordered and one of the girls, Alix, hung a pocket watch from Marinette’s neck.

“I’m not marrying Adrien tonight!” Marinette protested. She was ignored.

“Something new!” was the next call.

Ayla scurrying up, holding a lace veil that accentuated the dress.

“Guys!” Marinette sputtered as the veil was put on her, “We’re only sixteen!”

“Isn’t red the traditional Chinese wedding dress color?” someone asked, and Marinette couldn’t see who through the veil.

Marinette’s dress was a deep red, Ladybug red, “Yes but—!”

Kagami stepped up without prompting, sliding a dagger into Marinette’s sleeve, “My favorite dagger.”

“When did you get here, Kagami?” Marinette asked, confused.

“Chloe called me. She said you are having a practice wedding, an engagement ceremony—”

“GIRLS!”

“And something blue,” Chloe stepped up and tucked something into Marinette’s bra, “for Adrien, you two are ridiculous but he’ll need it. Seeing you. Trust us, Marinette.”

Marinette quieted and thought things over before saying, “This is all just…practice?”

“Yeah, Daddy wouldn’t give special permission without your parents’ permission,” it sounded like Chloe was pouting and Marinette gave a sigh of relief before giggling, “Okay.”

Her classmates cheered and hurried to dress themselves; then they formed a wall around her to stop any peeking should they see Adrien, and escorted her out to the limousine.

The school gym had been done up based on one of Marinette’s daydreams scribbled into a sketchbook; how Chloe had gotten her hands on that specific sketchbook…Ayla had some explaining to do.

 Still, seeing her possible wedding a reality, even if it was just “practice”…

Ayla took her duty as “Maid of Honor” seriously as she, in lieu of Marinette’s father or mother, escorted her to Adrien.

Adrien, whose jaw had dropped at the sight of his “bride”.

There was a table behind him, holding an array of finger foods and drinks, and he leaned on it heavily the closer Marinette came.

Nino, the “Best Man”, snickered, “If you’re reacting like this now, imagine your actual wedding!”

Chloe, unseen, took up a position behind the table as the couple reunited and cleared her throat.

Everyone jumped and she smirked, “Daddy did give me the speech a priest would say—Who’re you?"

Everyone was suddenly on guard as an unknown adult entered the gym; he had white hair and was thin though muscular. He was dressed in a pinstriped three-piece suit.

The man smiled warmly, “I am Adrien’s new grandfather, please call me Adam; I came in to visit my grandson when I heard there was a wedding rehearsal occurring—Adrien, your father did tell me to give you this as proof.”

He held up an envelope. Nino grabbed it for Adrien who opened it and quickly read the missive, his eyes widening before he smoothly said, “My apologies, Grandfather—”

Adam chuckled, “Do not worry, grandson. So, what is going on here?”

“Just a pretend wedding,” Ayla spoke up, already filming, “Adrien and Marinette can’t legally get married for another two years but we all know they will. So we decided to throw a pretend wedding.”

“I see,” Adam spoke, nodding gravely, before looking to Chloe, “If I may, Miss? I am ordained and can officiate.”

“Grandfather…”

“All is well, Adrien. Your marriage to Miss Dupain-Cheng has been foreseen…by the family.”

“Grandfather,” Adrien walked up, guiding Marinette with him, “may we speak in private?”

“Of course.”

Adrien led the trio to the nearby boys’ restroom and locked the door behind them as they entered.

“What’re you playing at, Grandfather?” Adrien hissed.

Clockwork rumbled a laugh, “You should be happier, this is your first wedding day, Adrien.”

“Grandfather.”

“If you “pretend” to marry Miss Dupain-Cheng today,” Clockwork explained, “it will be registered as real in the Realms, because you are equals and opposites and Destined.”

“Adrien, who is he?” Marinette lifted her veil.

“One of Papa and Mama’s most trusted advisors, if not their most trusted period,” Adrien introduced, “He…oversees Time. You could call him the God of Time for the Realms…We call him Grandfather out of respect.”

She nodded in understanding, “And you, Monsieur, are saying if we play pretend today it will be real in Adrien’s fa—Papa’s Realms?”

“Yes, Miss Dupain-Cheng,” Clockwork bowed slightly, “but you must also know that by marrying Adrien, whenever and wherever you so choose even if not now, you shall become an unofficial princess of the Realms. As befitting His Highness’ status as unofficially a prince.”

Again she nodded, thinking before asking with a sharp blush, “Will we have to ah….consummate the marriage?”

Adrien blushed as well as Clockwork answered, “While that may be required of Mortal Marriages, Ghost Marriages do not require it so much. It is preferable, yes, but not required.”

“So we could get married tonight, by the Realms’ reckoning, but put off consummation until we want,” Marinette nodded yet again, feeling a bit like a bobblehead, as she thought some more, “Our parents…”

“Adrien’s parents are already aware and are watching through a special portal,” Clockwork explained patiently, “they are not…happy, they wished Adrien could remain a teenager where he could, for marriage in the Realms does emancipate one from one’s guardians, but they respect any decision made. Their only request is that you do not consummate the marriage until you are older and considered adults under French law.”

Adrien gave a sigh of relief before asking, seriously, “But, Marinette’s parents?”

“You will tell them that as Ladybug and Chat Noir you had to undergo a ritual. One of the side-effects of this ritual is what can be called a “Soul Marriage”. That your souls are bonded and many magical beings will recognize you as married, in mundane terms…It is a version of the truth they can palate.”

Adrien looked to Marinette, “I’m in. I’d marry you for real, legally, here, in this bathroom.”

Marinette beamed, “Oh, Adrien. I’m game.”

Clockwork coughed and revealed a set of rings, “From their Majesties, with compliments.”

The bands were plan silver, though Marinette’s had a large ruby embedded in it, not unlike her promise ring. Not so large that it couldn’t be hidden beneath her super suit, however.

Someone knocked on the door, Chloe’s voice ringing out, “Hello?”

Bride and groom, for there was no pretending anymore, exited the bathroom and took up their places.

Kitty Section had somehow arrived while they were talking with Clockwork and, led by a smiling Luka, played the traditional wedding march perfectly as Marinette was once again led to Adrien.

Adrien who was beaming and weeping tears of joy and love at the sight of his Lady walking so confidently towards him.

Adam took his position behind the snack table turned podium and led everyone through the ceremony with a practiced air.

There classmates and guests gasped at the sight of the rings and everyone suddenly knew that this pretend wedding was somehow very real even if it wasn’t legal…yet.

Chloe quickly bullied Nino out of his position of Best Man, replacing him.

Once the vows were said, improvised yet heartfelt, and the rings were exchanged, Adam announced the Fenton-Chengs as Adrien and Marinette walked down the makeshift aisle as Kitty Section played.

Nobody who had ever wielded a Miraculous dared mention the ribbons of magic now binding the two together; they were only briefly visible, after all, could have been a trick of the light. Nothing to speak about.

Nobody also mentioned that Adrien’s grandfather disappeared as soon as the dance turned reception was in full swing.

It was Paris; he probably had a plane to catch. He was American after all.

Chloe had shanghaied her father’s baking team to create cupcakes based on a fantasy wedding cake from Marinette’s sketchbook and Adrien’s preferences.

Nino took up his post as DJ and curated a playlist of both modern and classic songs, including the First Dance song he himself picked out for his friends.

And the party went on.

The next day at school Alya nearly screamed in joy when she noticed Marinette and Adrien both wearing their wedding rings on chains around their necks.

The two considered themselves married.

And that was that; at least until summer when they had a Realms’ Wedding fit for a prince and his princess.

And when they turned eighteen, finally, and were wed legally under French Law.

Back in his Lair, Clockwork would smile at each wedding; time was going as well as possible for that universe.

Wished Away 9

Tylers meet Phantoms:

“Christ, Mum,” Rose said as she took in how Jackie, Pete, and Tony were dressed, “we’re just meetin’—”

“Royalty!” Jackie squeaked. They were all done up like they were meeting the Queen at Buckingham Palace itself!

“Honestly, Mum, they don’t care,” Rose rolled her eyes, grabbing her mother’s wrist and tugging her through the console room and to the wardrobe room, “I told ya ta dress casually. Let’s just hope the Ol’ Girl has clothes fer ya.”

It took about an hour to get everyone redressed, in things much more casual but still nice, before Rose led them back to the console room.

Jackie was clearly anxious, “Are ya—”

“’m sure, Mum. Danny an’ Sam don’t do formal unless they have ta. Unless you’re an annoying subject or someone threatenin’ war, ya don’t even have ta call ‘em by their titles. They’re just Danny an’ Sam ta family.”

“Lookie what I found,” Jenny bounded from the innards of the TARDIS, holding a tiny bike helmet.

She went to her toddler uncle and put it on him, making sure it fit right, “Landings in the Realms are worse than normal ones. The TARDIS does Her best but the Realms give her…nausea? A headache? She just doesn’t do good.”

“Oh, goody,” Jackie said lowly, hugging a strut for dear life already.

“Let me protect Anthony,” Bad Wolf came out, holding out her arms; without hesitation, Pete handed his son over.

Bad Wolf settled Tony in her arms, against her chest and shoulder, and then spread her feet and crouched slightly, clearly bracing for impact; she stayed steady even as the TARDIS began Her flight.

Everyone else was thrown about the console room, the Doctor and Jenny barely holding on to work the console, but Bad Wolf and Tony did not move an inch.

The landing was rough, just as Jenny said it would be, throwing even the Time Lords to the grated floor before the TARDIS stopped quaking.

Jenny recovered first and stood up, rubbing her shoulder, to peek out the doors, “We’re in the Palace. Uncle Danny and Aunt Sam are waiting…”

Slowly, everyone picked themselves up and Rose reemerged, straightening with some popping from her knees.

Jenny led the procession out, racing to hug a man and a woman, “Uncle Danny, Aunt Sam! How’re you?”

Danny and Sam chuckled and hugged her as one, “Good, doing good. You?”

“Perfect!”

She let go of them to drag Jackie, who was hesitant, forward, “This’s my Gran, Jackie. Mum’s side, duh. Completely human. He’s my step-granddad, Pete, and Mum’s holding my uncle, Tony.”

“Yer Majesties,” Jackie tried to curtsy even though she was in trousers, “an honor ta—”

“Oh, enough,” Sam chuckled, “didn’t they tell you? We don’t do formalities with family.”

“Family?” Jackie’s eyes were wide, “I know Rose said—but—”

“We count Clockwork as family,” Danny explained, “and he’s claimed the Doctor as family. The Doctor and Jenny. Rose’s basically married in by this point. Common-law, you understand. That makes her family our family. Welcome to the Palace, your home in the Infinite Realms.”

“My god,” Pete muttered, somewhat disbelieving.

“Not a god, not yet anyways,” Danny winked.

“Where’s Dani?” Jenny burst out, “Is she still in school?”

Sam grinned, “With Anakin, in the nursery. We let her stay home today.”

“Oh, Gran! Can I introduce Tony to Anakin? Please!” Jenny nearly begged.

“Anakin’s our youngest,” Danny explained kindly, “around Tony’s age, actually. We also have a nanny looking after them, Nanny Clara. He’d be perfectly safe.”

“Well…” Jackie looked to her husband, who nodded, “if you’re sure.”

Jenny cheered and took Tony from Rose, dashing off with him deeper into the Palace.

“Jenny knows the Palace as well as anyone,” Sam assured, “and if she gets lost, she can flag down a servant for help. She’s heading directly for the nursery. It’s the most defensible part of the Palace.

Danny stood up, helping Sam, “C’mon, we can talk over food; stay close, Tylers. Doctor?”

“Rose and I can bring up the rear,” the Doctor agreed, taking Rose’s hand as they began walking.

The Palace was a gothic masterpiece, in a very literal sense, though even Sam had wearied of all the gloom and had sought artists and artwork to fill the halls, soft, plush carpets and tapestries to keep the warmth, glassworks to fill the once barred windows. Statues and busts dotted the hallways, some classical, some avant garde

Masters had given their masterpieces, their magnum opuses; they were paid handsomely of course, in either coin or material.

Oils, watercolors, acrylics, textiles, glass, all created for Her Majesty the Ghost Queen. For His Majesty the Ghost King.

It wasn’t yet a riot of color, nor would it ever be, but it was more alive.

Jackie gasped and the group stopped, turning as one to see what had captured her attention.

“When they said the family was huge…”

Ah, it was the most recent family portrait; all the children were gathered around Danny and Sam, all in formal wear.

“We…sometimes people sell the souls of children to me,” Danny started, causing her and Pete to whip around to him in horror, “I know, it’s horrible, isn’t it? But anyways, we adopt the kids. Only Dani—Danielle—isn’t adopted.”

He pointed out each child and gave their backstory.

“Good Lord, you were young!” Pete said at Damian’s story.

“Old enough to be king,” Danny shrugged helplessly, “it…it wasn’t easy, we had help, so much help, and we made mistakes…”

“All parents do,” Jackie told him softly.

“So we’ve been told,” Sam smiled just as softly, “and we’ve learned and made new ones with each kid.”

Danny coughed and continued to point out kids and tell stories, until all had been covered and then they moved on.

As they neared the dining room, Danielle and Jenny joined them with each holding a toddler.

“Oh my,” Jackie said, taking in the Anakin Skywalker; she knew who he grew up to be, or would have if he had not been adopted.

“We’re hungry, Dad,” Danielle said.

Danny waved them into the dining room where the smaller table was already set for a meal; there were two chairs with booster seats and Jenny and Danielle put Tony and Anakin in them before sitting beside them and helping them get food.

The group chatted over the meal, Jackie and Pete slowly relaxing at how easy going the Royals were, and generally had good cheer.

After the meal was done, Jenny asked, “Do we put their photo up on the family wall now? I know you’ve got me, Dad, and Mum…”

Danny chuckled, “We can, if they’re okay with it.”

“Family wall?” Pete questioned.

“We keep walls of pictures of the extended family,” Sam explained easily, “you know, like Rose, the Doctor, and Jenny. Harry’s and Neville’s parents. Damian’s paternal birth-family. The Royal Portrait is just the immediate royal family. The walls are for everyone and everything else.”

Danny and Sam led the group out of the dining room and down another hallway; the walls were plastered with photographs. Some were professional, most were candid and amateur.

A common camera sat on a small round table; a high-end camera but nothing too expensive or professional.

Danny picked it up, saying, “If Jackie, Pete, and Tony don’t mind—”

Jackie decided it would be a family photograph and dragged the Doctor in; Rose and Jenny came without complaint.

Danny took a set of pictures.

After that was done, it was decided it was time for the Tylers to leave, taking pity on the still disgruntled TARDIS.

They were, however, invited to the next family gathering.

[osohchoso]

Shattered Ice

Chapter Four- Honey

Hockey player!Choso x F!reader, ex bf!Toji x F!reader

Previous | Chapter Index | Class list | Chapter 5 coming soon!

Content: Naoya warning! harassment, rumors of sexual assault (it does not happen to you and isn't described!!) confrontation, new beginnings

“You look lost,” His deep words startle you to your core. Here you are, alone and cornered. Your captor leans in close until his lips are centimeters from your ear, alcohol-tainted breath puffing against your skin. “What’s a pretty woman like you doing here all alone?” 

If you manage to make it home unscathed, Shoko better pray for her own safety.

“What…cat got your tongue?” He taunts you, his nails biting into your shoulder to keep you still. From where you are in the bar it is unlikely anyone can see your struggle, hidden away from the rest of the commotion. Maybe you could yell for help, loud enough to get Yu’s attention. Fear gets the better of you, your words getting caught in your throat and coming out as a strangled gasp, causing your attacker to let out a low chuckle. He’s getting off on your distress.  

You’re alone in this, practically defenseless. Nothing but you, the phone in your hand and a purse full of useless crap. There is no telling what he wants with you, you can only imagine the horrid scenarios based on what you have heard around campus. One thing is for sure, you are not going down without a fight. You tighten your grip on your phone as you prepare to strike. Spinning around and swinging the blunt object toward his head, it won't be very effective but may buy you enough time to escape.

He easily snatches your wrist with his other hand, a crushing grip that forces your fingers to recoil in pain and drop your phone to the hard floor below. You recognize the man before you, only one grade below you and a member of the hokey team. Piercings, blonde hair with the tips dyed dark green, confident smirk. He has a bad reputation around the school, someone all the girls know to avoid. Viper-like eyes track your every movement, watching his prey wither in his grasp.

“Useless,” He spits, looking down at your measly attempt at an attack. Your weapon of choice shattered on the floor below. Your chest heaving and heart racing as you realize you’re about to uncover if the rumors spread around KU are true.

“Zenin!” A booming male voice calls to him, steps growing louder as a third person joins the confrontation. “Time for you to leave.” The man continues sternly.

You recognize his scent before you even see him. A familiar combination of cigarettes and cloves, easing your nerves slightly. Arms crossed over his chest as he glares at the scene in front of him.

“Naoya, I said go” Choso raises his voice enough to send a chill racing down your spine, even though it wasn’t directed toward you in the slightest. Naoya finally releases your hand, irritated lines and half-moon indents decorate your wrist as evidence of his death hold. He casts you and Choso one last shifty glance before slinking away toward the bar exit. 

Choso returns his attention to you once your attacker is far away. His once fearsome gaze softened into something of worry as he looked you over. He tentatively reaches a hand toward yours but quickly retracted it to the confines of his pocket. 

“Are you okay?” He asks hesitantly even though he knows your answer. You were left trembling after the whole encounter, trying to put on a brave face after the fact. If it wasn’t for Choso, you could be in a very different situation right now.

“I’m fine,” you whisper hoarsely. He gives you a look that screams ‘I don't believe you’ but doesn’t try pushing further. Not wanting to add any more stress to the ordeal. You tug your sleeve down, covering the marks engraved into your skin that will certainly be bruises by tomorrow morning. “Just a little shaken up.” You lie through gritted teeth.

“Sorry about that” He bends down and picks your phone up off the floor, turning it over to reveal an intricate web of cracks stretching across the length of the black screen. He clicks the button on the side to test it, instead of your usual lock screen display, bright colors of green and red flash along the break lines. “Oh…it’s broken broken,” He powers it off and hands it back to you, and you tuck the worthless device inside your purse. 

“Your friend is an asshole” You huff, a crease forming between your brows. 

“He’s not my friend.” He huffs, glaring toward the door as if to check if Naoya actually left. “Just because we play on the same team doesn’t make us friends. You couldn’t pay me to be his friend.” He snorts. “But I’m still sorry about your phone,” He continued, a guilty look on his face as if he personally smashed the screen. 

“It’s fine, I can get a new one.” You dismiss the whole situation; it’s just a phone after all. It can be replaced easily. Tomorrow morning you can just call home using one of your roommate’s phones and ask your dad to send you a new one. The new model just came out a few months ago too, so it was time to upgrade anyways. Choso gives you an almost skeptical look as you act so nonchalantly about the damaged item. 

“You should report Naoya too. Treating girls like that is unacceptable, you did nothing to deserve that.”

“I will.” You won’t. None of the girls ever do. If just one of the girls he harassed confessed to the school staff, the man would have been kicked from the team by now. Possibly even from the University, losing his scholarship and disgracing the Zenin name. But no one ever does. Even though it can be reported anonymously, many still fear what consequences could arise if Naoya found out who reported him. 

“It’s late. Shouldn’t you be going home by now?” He takes a step closer to you, attempting to scan the dwindling bar patrons for Suguru or Shoko. 

“It’s no use. They left me…again!” You let out a loud sigh. Not only did they leave you alone in a bar full of drunk college men, but now you are stuck with an unusable phone leaving you with no way of calling a ride back to the dorms. The bar isn’t that far from campus, but that is by car. Walking from here to the dorms would take forever, not to mention how dangerous it would be to go alone.

“Come on, I’ll give you a ride again…just don’t make this a habit,” Choso teases with a goofy smirk, attempting to lighten the mood. And how could you say no to his offer? Riding in his beat-up car was clearly the better and safer option. 

“Yeah, that would be great. Thanks.” You follow him out into the parking lot, immediately spying the rusty black car you rode in once before. He wraps his hand around the passenger door handle and yanks it open, the door screeching as it protests the movement. 

“Are you sure you can drive?” You ask as your eyes look him up and down, searching for any sign of intoxication. 

“Don’t worry about it, I really only had the one beer you bought me and that was a while ago. I’m sober.” He was telling the truth. Once your legs are inside the car, he closes the door with a heavy shove. The car smelled just like him, along with the lingering smell of his sweat emanating from the hockey bag resting in the back seat. 

He settles into the driver's seat and starts the car, pulling out of the parking lot. An awkward silence falls over you, the air feeling thick and overbearing. How do you keep ending up in these situations with him?

The tension feels suffocating, and it's only been a few minutes. Your fingers frantically click the window switch on the interior of the door, needing to feel a cool puff of air on your face.

“Mmm sorry,” Choso hums without taking his eyes off the road. “Passenger window doesn't work; is it too warm in here?” He reaches his right hand forward to adjust the temperature to something cooler. It’s not much but the little difference seems to help. You mutter a hushed ‘thanks’ under your breath.

More silence. What should only be a 10 minute car ride is stretched out to 10 years. Hitting every stoplight possible on the way back to campus. 

Choso turns to look at you, the red light illuminating the left side of his face within the darkness of the night. Through the vibrant neon glow, you see his dark eyes narrowing as he studies your face.

“Mind telling me why you have been avoiding me for the past week?” His words suck the life out of you, so he has noticed. You had hoped he wasn’t perceptive enough to catch the subtle details, maybe seeing it as you not noticing him versus flat-out ignoring him. The quiet ones always notice everything.

“I wasn’t–” He cuts you off by saying your name, drawing each syllable out in a plea. 

“It isn’t nice to lie,” He juts his bottom lip out in an adorable pout, putting an act on to be offended. His skin bathed in a green hue as the stoplight changes, yet he refuses to move. Continuing to pout and stare in your eyes until the car behind blares their horn, forcing his focus back on the road.

“Don’t tell me…is this about that stupid party?” His face is less animated now, the usual unreadable expression in place as he continues to drive.

“Yeah” You admit quietly. 

“Seriously? It wasn’t that bad.” You open your mouth to object but he continues speaking, drowning out your protests. “Can we just start over? Forget about the whole thing and move on?” It did sound appealing and would make this project less stressful if the two of you could work together like you are meant to. 

“I thought after that night we could have became friends at least,” He whispers quietly as he pulls into the parking lot of your dorm. You just barely catch it, but you see a frown on his face. Nothing like the fake dramatic pout he was wearing earlier, a genuinely sad look that tugs at your heart strings. Maybe you have been overreacting a little. Besides, like Yu said earlier, it’s college. Who hasn’t gotten a little too crazy at a party?

He finds a spot to park close to the entrance. You unbuckle and shift in your seat to look at him.

“Sure, let’s start over. My name is Y/N, I’m your partner in public speaking. It’s nice to meet you.” You stick your hand out like this is a formal introduction, pretending to meet him for the first time. He lets out a small chuckle, his frown twitching into a tiny smile as he takes your hand and plays along. His calloused hand wrapping firmly around yours, the heat from his palm radiating into your own.

“Nice to meet you, Miss. My name is Choso Kamo, and I look forward to working with you this semester.” He shakes your hand, thoroughly enjoying following the bit. When you both release the handshake, he gazes down at his hand that was just touching yours, the black painted nail of his index finger scraping at the already chipped polish on his thumb. “Would it be too much to ask my partner to sit next to me during class?” How can someone so confident on the ice be so nervous to ask something as simple as that.

“Of course I can sit with you, Choso” You assure him softly, watching as a flicker of something flashes across his face. Hope? Appreciation? 

“Great…we should plan a day to start brainstorming ideas then. I need to check my practice schedule first but other than that and the games I’m pretty free. I can just text you–” He trails off, remembering how your phone is currently out of commission. You know it will get replaced asap but it could still take a few days, and it sounds like Choso wants to start this project sooner rather than later. 

“You have discord, right? Just message me there and we can set up a day to start.” He nods his head, confirming he does use the app. You open your purse, digging around for something he can write his username on. No paper or receipts, darn you for actually cleaning your purse out for once, the only suitable object you find is a single wrapped piece of gum you had stashed away for emergencies. You pull it out, removing the silver wrapping and holding the rectangle in front of Choso’s lips. He looks at you confused before gingerly grabbing the gum by his teeth and pulling it inside his mouth. 

“Write your username, I’ll add you tomorrow.” You instruct, holding out a red gel pen. He grabs both items and sets the paper on the center console, pen hovering over it. He chews the gum, lost in thought. 

“Don’t laugh,” He blushes lightly as the pen scrawls across the small paper. “I made my account in middle school and I don’t use it very much, so it has a cringy username.” 

“Ok, I promise.” You smile. He hands it over, the neat red lettering spelling out: BL00D_3DG3. You bite your lip; it definitely wasn't what you were expecting. He notices your internal struggle and lets his own laugh slide out.

“I know, it’s bad. I thought I was soo cool at the time. I’ll change it eventually.” He picks at his chipped nail polish again.

“No, keep it. I like it.” You flash a bright smile his way. As silly as it was, it was definitely unique. It makes you sort of nostalgic for those days when everyone had random nonsense usernames in place of the now professional and generic first name-last name combos. 

“Sure, but just for you,” he huffs. 

“Goodnight.” you tell him, pushing on the door hard. It doesn't budge, just like before.

“Gotta be rough on it.” He tells you as he leans over, shoving the door forcefully. “Goodnight.” He echos. You stand from the car, noticing the way his eyes linger on your wrists. You hadn’t realized the sleeve had started to ride up, you pull it back into place. Hopefully fast enough that he didn't notice the marks left from the earlier encounter. 

After you slam the door with a loud bang, which he insisted was the only way to close it, you turn to walk to your dorm. Pausing to turn and wave before stepping foot inside, noticing him wave back in response and how he refused to drive away until you were tucked away safely inside. 

⋆⁺₊❅.⛸️. ݁˖ .⋆⁺₊❅.⛸️. ݁˖ .⋆⁺₊❅.⛸️. ݁˖ .⋆⁺₊❅.⛸️. ݁˖ .⋆⁺₊❅.⛸️. ݁˖ .⋆⁺₊❅.⛸️. ݁˖ .

You heard it first from Satoru, who you guarantee heard from Suguru and was told not to tell a soul. Satoru knew better, but he also knew not to keep the juicy secrets away from you. But this one was a shock.

Naoya Zenin, dropped from the hockey team and awaiting disciplinary action from Kaisen University. Rumors say someone finally brought attention to his heinous deeds, and the school is thankfully taking it very seriously. Some schools might sweep it under the rug, claiming he's a ‘good student’ who made a ‘mistake’ just to keep another great player on the hockey team. Only two days after your own incident with him too. 

It makes you wonder what poor girl finally was brave enough to confront the school's higher-ups. Whoever it was, you were thankful. With that nuisance out of the picture the school will become a more peaceful place.

Satoru claims that Naoya will end up being suspended with no chance of ever being admitted back to KU. He will likely get blacklisted from every other school in a 100-mile radius too, his reputation will be ruined like he deserves. Though, with your information on the Zenin family, you know they will try to fight it. Thankfully Naoya isn’t allowed to even be on campus until the verdict of his investigation is complete. Meaning you, and all the other girls involved, can rest a little easier.

Even if somehow he is found innocent, Coach Yaga has already made a statement saying he will not be welcome back to the team. Claiming that he won't allow players to tarnish the reputation of the KU curses, the team has worked so hard to get where they are, he won't allow one bad egg to spoil the bunch.

With the sudden departure of Naoya, the team is down one player. His absence leaves a huge hole in the team and so early into the season. Sundays are normally a big practice day as the students have no other obligations like classes, but today was different. Coach Yaga canceled today’s practice to hold emergency tryouts for Naoya’s replacement. Team Captain Sukuna, along with the other seniors, are currently sitting alongside their coach as various students attempt to fill the missing spot. All the underclassmen were given the day off today.

Meaning today was the perfect day for you and Choso to work on the project. 

You don’t know what possessed you but you decided to dress a little nicer than the usual study session with friends. Pulling on your favorite light wash jeans and a long sleeve top, looking cute but still managing to pull off a casual vibe. Your greatest assets on display.

You opened the drawers of the vanity in your bedroom, trying to locate the finishing touch of your outfit. Your favorite perfume. It was an expensive one too, a gift from your roommates on your last birthday. Even though they didn’t have to, they pooled their money together to buy it. Knowing the addicting aroma was one of your favorites. They even wrote cute birthday wishes in sharpie on the back of the bottle. Guilt swirls in your stomach when you can’t find it. Not even a memory of the last time you saw it.

Shoko calls your name loudly from the living room, getting your attention all the way in your bedroom. You quickly grab the closest perfume and apply a few spritz, smelling of honey and magnolias.

“Pigtails is here!!” She shouts at the tops of her lungs. Does she not realize he can probably hear her yelling through the thin door of the dorm? Is she asking for another scolding from you?

The second you made it home Friday night, you woke her from her dead sleep to reprimand her for abandoning you, yet again. After you explained the ordeal with Naoya, you could see the guilt in her eyes. Already blaming herself, if she had stayed with you he likely would have never even approached. By the time Utahime unleashed her wrath, Shoko was begging for forgiveness and making promises to be glued to your hip until graduation. 

“Shoko! Keep your voice down, I bet he can–” Oh, he definitely heard. Your roommate had already let him in, Choso now standing in the middle of the room, hands shoved in his pockets as he looks around the dorm. It always felt weird to see the hockey boys out of their jerseys, but Choso proved to look breathtaking no matter what he wore. Black leather boots, cuffed jeans and a faded gray band-tee. His bare arms showing even with the cold weather today, how was he not freezing?

“Ignore her, follow me,” You lead him down the hallway toward your room, away from the nosy stares of Shoko. Once inside, you shut the door behind him, just in case your roommate tried to come bother you again. You notice how he examines the room, taking in your choice of decor that perfectly reflects your personality. He still hasn’t said anything since stepping foot inside your space, just observing everything with that blank expression of his.

“Look!” You grab your shiny new phone from the bedside table, waving it in the air. “It came!” You told your family the next day, leaving out the reason for how it ended up breaking, and your dad expedited the newest model to your place right away. It arrived first thing this morning. Thankfully, you were able to recover all your data too. Losing all your pictures would be devastating but having to go through and enter everyone’s contact again would be torture. 

“I still need your number though,” you admit. You were given his contact information when he was assigned as your class partner, but you never added him during your avoidance phase. 

“Great, now you don’t have to see my stupid discord name.” He smirks slightly.

“Not if I change your contact to blood edge,” you tease, swiping across the still-default lock screen and navigating to the contacts app. 

“Not allowed,” he reaches forward and snatches it from your grasp, a playful laugh following the last syllable. He walks across the room, nose buried in your phone as he types in his number and name. When he hands it back you notice his contact name set simply to ‘Cho’.

“We should get started,” he reminds you, walking back across the room to retrieve his laptop from the bag he brought. He lowers himself to the floor at the foot of the bed, back leaning against it as he opens a blank document. You walk across the room to grab your own laptop off the desk and join him on the ground.

“I guess the first thing we need to do is decide on the topic,” You tap your nail on the laptop as you think, the professor wants a speech on a topic both of you are passionate about. Hockey seems like the obvious answer, something you enjoy watching and Choso has hands-on experience with. But something about the conversation you had with him in the alley the other night stops you from suggesting it.

You glance over at him. His eyes forward as he stares at the blank white page, lost in thought. What could you two have in common? Now that you think about it, you don't know much at all about the man next to you. Nothing other than the fact that he is a goalie and majoring in biology.

“Tell me something about yourself,” You close your laptop and turn your body to face him fully, giving him your complete attention.

“Like what?” 

“I don't know, anything really. What are your hobbies? What is something important to you? What makes you, you?” You reach forward and poke his chest, right over his heart. He flinches slightly at the touch and looks away, gathering his thoughts and calming the heat that begins to rise in his cheeks. 

“Family, family is important to me.” He begins when he turns to face you again. You nod, beckoning him to continue.

“Things haven't always been easy for us, but we have each other. I have three younger brothers. Eso is a senior in high school and Kechizu is a freshman this year. Our baby brother, Yuji, just started his first year of elementary school.” You notice the warm smile that grows across Choso’s face as he speaks fondly about his siblings. A real smile that he doesn’t even attempt to hide. “I would do anything for them, they mean everything to me.”

“Our parents passed shortly after Yuji’s birth, and we started living with our grandfather. Well, technically he’s only Yuji’s grandfather since we are just half-siblings. Still, he treats us all like his own grandkids, raising us to be men who help others. I hope one day I can make him proud.” Bit by bit, you are starting to uncover the story of Choso Kamo.

“I’m sure you will,” you add softly. He may seem a little rough around the edges, but deep down, Choso is proving to be a real softie. Someone who always puts others before himself. 

“Right…” He trails off, sounding a little embarrassed. “Well, we can’t give a whole presentation about my family, let's brainstorm some real ideas.” He puts himself back into business mode.

The next hour is spent creating a list of various topics, writing down anything and everything that comes to mind. The goal is to find a topic that will have enough content to create a lengthy speech. You come up with the idea to turn it into a persuasive argument, using this project to talk about a social issue or relevant world news. 

Choso surprised you by wanting to talk about the need for better public safety on campus, bringing up the point that there are still creeps like Naoya out there that will prey on unsuspecting victims. While you agree with his stance greatly, you turn him down. If the Zenin family caught wind of this, and you know they have their ways, they would stop at nothing to slander both you and Choso’s names.

As much as you were starting to enjoy your time with him, it was taking forever, neither of you could find a topic you could both agree on. Choso’s eyelids start to get a little heavier, yawning every couple of minutes. 

“Mmm…you smell nice.” He states shamelessly, his nostrils twitching. “Sweet…like honey.” Does he even realize what he just said out loud?

Wait…honey.

“I've got it!” You exclaim suddenly, causing Choso to jolt from his sleepy state, looking at you startled. “Bees Choso! Let's talk about the importance of bees!” It takes him a moment to register the thought, but he chuckles at your enthusiasm once he processes it.

“Sure, why not? I like bees.” There would certainly be enough information the two of you could research on the subject. Explaining what life would be like if they went extinct and advocating ways to preserve their numbers. “It’s decided then, I think that's enough work for one day. My brain is fried.” Choso shuts his laptop and stands up. 

“Oh! Before you go,” You stand up as well, moving to the stool in front of the bedroom vanity across the room. Resting on top of the cushion is a neatly folded gray hoodie, cleaned and waiting to return to its rightful owner. “Here” You toss it his way, which he easily catches from the air. 

“Thanks, I guess I’ll see you in class tomorrow.” He practically groans at the thought.

“What? Not excited to sit next to me?” You tease in response. He quickly shakes his head.

“It’s not you, it’s the class. I’m not very good with the whole…speaking in front of others.” His words get quieter, mouse-like, as he explains. 

It all makes sense now. The reason he looked so upset when he left the counselor’s office with the schedule change. Why he appeared so fidgety during the lecture, the poor guy has a fear of public speaking.

“It's not that hard, I’ll help you,” You offer a kind smile. “Besides, haven't you heard all you gotta do is imagine everyone in their underwear.”

His face immediately flushes bright red at the last comment. His amber eyes frantically tracing the outline of your body, lingering a few seconds too long in certain places. He clutches the hoodie a little harder, knuckles turning white, until it finally dawns on him how hard he was staring.

“Uh…right…” His adam’s apple bobs as he swallows thickly. “I uh…I gotta go. Bye!” He dashes out the door at incredible speed.

“Um…see you tomorrow then.” You call to him awkwardly. Had he never heard that phrase before? Did it make him uncomfortable? Turning around you realize he left in such a hurry that he left his laptop and backpack sitting on the floor. 

What a dummy. 

A few hours later, your phone rings. You're assuming it’s Choso finally realizing what he left behind. You unlock it, not even bothering to check the caller ID, and answer the call.

“Forgot something?” You tease in a sing-song voice.

“No, but you did.” Oh fuck. “What? Were you expecting someone else, princess? I didn’t peg you as someone to move on so fast.”

Toji. You should have listened to Shoko and blocked.

“I don’t want to talk to you, you know this.” You practically growl. 

“Yeah, I know. But you have been ignoring all my texts, I had to reach you somehow. You still have things over at my place, I thought you might want to come collect them.” He rattles off a list of items that were either replaceable or you exactly didn’t care if you ever saw again. All except your missing perfume. An irreplaceable gift left behind when you rushed out his door.

Checkmate.

“Fine. I’ll find a way to come get them,” you agree reluctantly. “And then we are done, I don’t want to hear from you ever again after that.” You hear him let out a low chuckle through the line.

“See you soon, beautiful”

dividers by @thyming PNGs by @thepngpixie

Taglist:  @v1x3n @lavenderdaydream97 @simplyraeblue @huang-the-geek @sodapop182 @angel04-01

A/N: Stayed up late last night working on a surprise bonus chapter! I'll be uploading that later this week!

[calsappstore]

COLUMBINE ICEBERG (FINALE)

“Today is not a good day to be here”: The Rebel News was in charge of choosing a slogan for the day, and Erik Veik (a friend of both of the shooters) chose that one. This message was changed and “How can you expect us to be here on a day like this” became the slogan. However, many students recall the event for “Today is not a good day to be here”.

Mr Harris’ journal: Eric was not the only member of the family who kept a journal, his father, Wayne, kept track of Eric’s bad behavior, such as when Eric fought Brooks, or when they found the “secret stash for alcohol”. Despite this, he believes his son is innocent, while Brooks is quite manipulative. There’s another section dedicated to Kevin, this section contains about 2 pages, but the behaviours Kevin displayed seemed to be quite similar to Eric’s.

Brenda Parker: This girl essentially claimed to have had a “relationship” with Eric, she stated she met Eric and Dylan when they followed her and her friend around. She claimed that she talked to Eric on the phone everyday, and they would cruise on his mustang, and that’s all they talked about. She also claimed that she had a picture and a recording of Eric, I think unsurprisingly, it was confirmed by the FBI that were fake. Although, she confirmed later on that she was lying about it.

Klebob’s “A short story”: In February of 1999, Klebob turned this paper for a school assignment. The story is about a left handed tall dude who kills a bunch of college kids. The murderer in the story resembles Dylan quite a lot, and his teacher certainly knew this, so she asked Dylan to talk about the story; Dylan dismissed these concerns. The teacher also contacted the parents, that also ignored the “red flags”

Library CCTV footage: This refers to the myth/ theory that there is footage that contains what happened in the library. However, there is no confirmation of such footage even existing.

Unreleased CCTV footage: Similar theory, stating that there is similar footage of other parts of the high school that contain segments of the tragedy and caught the shooters from different angles.

Bomb CCTV footage: This refers to the footage of the two shooters planting the bombs (it’s in horrible quality but you can make out mostly Eric moving around the cafeteria).

Snapple Bottle Molotov Cocktails: Both shooters threw molotov cocktails in the cafeteria, in an attempt to make their pipe bombs go off.

“I was Mr. Cutter tonight”: On April 15, 1997. Dylan Klebob wrote a journal entry about his self- harm.

Five coffins: It refers to a drawing in Dylan’s journal, he drew 5 coffins. This is one of the most interesting things of the case for me. I made a post on random facts yesterday and I included it again, but Dylan was fascinated with the number 5, obviously the coffins tie into it because he ended up killing 5 people in a shirt that said “wrath” which, according to Dante’s inferno, is the fifth circle of Hell.

Wiped Hard Drive: Dylan did this the day before the massacre, which has led to an insane amount of speculation as to why.

Blue tent: This blue tent is where they kept the bodies of both Eric and Dylan before they got sent to JeffCo for autopsy.

Harris’ cuts: His autopsy revealed that he had “small cluster of punctate lacerations and cuts”. There is a debate on wether or not these cuts were self inflected.

Harris’ recurrent dream: For a class, it was given the option to submit anonymously about a dream they had, Eric detailed a specific scenario he kept dreaming about with Dylan. But, most people knew that this submission came from Eric.

Teenwitch: Album by Bones dedicated to Columbine.

We need to talk about Kevin: fanfic about the massacre.

Bang Bang, you’re dead: a stage play written in the aftermath of the attack, and drawing from the playwright’s own experience with school violence at his child’s school.

Bobby Patterson: Bobby Patterson was someone who committed suicide on April 29th, 1999 and he knew the attackers to some extent.

Columbinus: a show about the massacre.

This post is for educational purposes only.

Hopefully you have enjoyed the "mini- series" on the iceberg. I learned a lot and I hope you did too.

Disclaimer: I did not tackle every single concept within the iceberg. Columbine is such a broad case and plus, not everything is super relevant, so I covered what I think is the most interesting or not-so-obvious of the case.

Disclaimer 2: This post was kindly brought to you by "Restraining Disorder" on youtube and the Columbine subreddit.

Thank you so much for taking the time to interact with the posts, I hope you all have a wonderful day.

[wisteriaiswriting]

Failing To Fluster Their S/O

Words: 592

Request: Hi! can you do omen, chamber, cypher, reyna in a situation where they were trying to be flirty and fluster their SO but get flustered instead? Requested by: @socks-drawer

“Sage, can you pass me the ribbon?” She pointed at the different colours until she found the one you wanted, handing over the spool. Luckily you had just finished your craft, a bouquet of flowers. And just at that time the door slid open, turning around to see it was Omen.

“Omen!” Only when he was standing right infront of you did you notice what he was carrying, a small bonsai tree. He silently handed it over, his hands brushing over your own as you took it. “Thank you! Wait–”

Gently placing it down on the table to grab your bouquet, “I made these for you.” Holding it out for him, only for him to just look at it. Fingers twitching as if he wanted to grab it but didn’t, you know him though.

His eyes brightened and widened just before taking it from you, a quiet “Thank you…” as he turned and left. Unaware of the care he uses for the fake flowers.

“Oh, hello there Mon cher!” Turning in his chair to face the door, watching you enter the room. Standing from his desk to pull you into a hug, “Are you here to see me or my newest project?” “I would say both.”

“Of course.” He picked up the gun, handing it over to you. “I just need to add the final touches, but it should be finished by today.” Watching you flip it over and get a closer look, eventually holding it up as if to shoot.

“Zis one is a little different, let me help you dear.” Standing right behind you, his hands covering your own. “Just like zat, perfect.” Feeling his warmth seep into you as he moves just a bit closer, pressing himself against you.

“Now’s not the time to talk about yourself.” “You know what I meant love~” His head leaned over your shoulder, “I don’t think I do, want to show me?” “Of course.”

Oh how he looked watching you flush and look away in a panic whenever he caught you staring. No matter how long you two have been together, some things never change. (Apparently that was a lie.)

This time was during a small meeting, you two seated next to each other. Out of the corner of his mask he could see you staring at him, eyes full of admiration and love just for him. Making sure Brimstone and the others were distracted, or rather actually focusing before making his move.

Leaning in a little closer towards you, “Focus, my star.” “Oh I’m focusing alright~” “Really, and what would that be?” Throughout the conversation he was slowly leaning closer, that was until his name was called. “Cypher,” The masked man shooting back up, now noticing the many pairs of eyes on him, “What was I just saying?” “Uh, it was…” Seeing your smug grin, you brat.

Even as Raze and Phoenix were chatting, pretty loudly, you could hear the familiar sound of heels hitting the floor. When the person came into view the others quietened down, “Mi amor,”

Making her way over to you, showing off a clear limp, now leaning over the couch while placing a hand on your shoulder. “Look what you did to me, I couldn’t work at my best today~ ” Slowly tilting your head towards her.

“Don’t complain now, you definitely weren’t last night.” “Oh Estimado, ¿preparado para más?” “Reyna!” Seeing Gekko turn away while shielding his eyes, “Get a room you two!” Your only response was to laugh, giving him some relief by leaving the room.

[th3mrskory]

Chapter 3: The Weight of Kindness

© th3mrskory. don’t copy, translate, or use my works in any form with AI, ChatGPT or any other automated tools. I only share my stories here, so if you see them posted elsewhere, i’d appreciate it if you let me know.

______________________________________________________________

Pairing: Original fem!Reader x Origins!Logan

Warning: none. Just a slow burn (I promise it will be worth)

Word count: 7.5k

The mornings in Clearwater always started the same way: crisp air creeping in through the cracks of the cottage, the faint hum of the river in the distance, and the occasional call of birds breaking the silence. Evelyn was beginning to grow used to it. The quiet wasn’t as suffocating as it had been in the beginning. Now, it felt more like a blank canvas—a place to paint the pieces of her new life.

She was halfway through her second cup of coffee when she heard the now-familiar sound of Logan’s truck rumbling up the driveway. The low growl of the engine sent a ripple through her chest, though she told herself it was just the caffeine. By now, his visits had become something she half-expected, even if he never gave her notice.

The truck door creaked open, and Logan climbed out, toolbox in hand. As always, his expression was calm, unreadable, though his gaze flicked briefly to her as she stepped out onto the porch.

“Morning,” he greeted, nodding as he approached.

“Morning,” she replied, brushing her hands on her jeans. “Back to tackle the roof?”

He set the toolbox down near the steps and glanced upward. “Figured I’d finish what I started.”

“Efficient as always,” she said lightly, folding her arms as she leaned against the porch railing. “You sure I’m not keeping you from something more important?”

Logan’s brow furrowed slightly, his gaze flicking to hers. “If I had something better to do, I wouldn’t be here,” he said simply.

The bluntness of his response caught her off guard, though she couldn’t say it surprised her. Logan had a way of cutting through pleasantries with a kind of straightforwardness that was rare. It left her unsure whether to feel grateful or unnerved.

“Fair enough,” she replied, stepping aside to give him room. “Just don’t let me overwork you.”

He huffed softly, a sound that might have been a laugh, and picked up the ladder he’d left leaning against the porch. “Let me worry about that.”

For the next hour, Evelyn busied herself in the kitchen, sorting through a box of utensils she’d finally unpacked. Every so often, she glanced out the window to check on Logan, though he hardly seemed to notice. He moved with the same deliberate efficiency as always, his focus unwavering as he hammered and replaced shingles.

She had just finished organizing the drawers when a sharp knock at the door startled her. Wiping her hands on a dish towel, she opened it to find Logan standing there, his expression as steady as ever.

“Need to shut the water off,” he said, nodding toward the side of the house. “Pipe under the sink’s leaking. Saw it when I was looking for tools earlier.”

“Oh. Right. Let me show you where the valve is,” she said, stepping out and leading him around the side of the house.

As they crouched near the access point, the silence between them felt heavier than usual. She wasn’t sure why, but it made her want to fill it.

“I meant to ask,” she started, glancing at him as he worked on the valve, “that stack of firewood… was that you?”

Logan didn’t look up, but there was a slight pause in his movements before he answered. “Figured you’d need it.”

Her lips parted, though the words she wanted to say didn’t come right away. Finally, she settled on a simple, “Thank you. That was… really thoughtful.”

He gave a small nod, still focused on the valve. “Don’t mention it.”

But she couldn’t help but feel like it meant something—that even in his quiet, distant way, Logan cared more than he let on.

By midday, Logan had finished repairing the roof and fixing the leak. The cottage felt sturdier now, less like it would crumble under the weight of a storm. As he packed up his tools, Evelyn brought him a glass of water, which he accepted with a quiet “Thanks” before draining it in a few quick gulps.

“You know,” she said as he set the glass on the railing, “I’m starting to feel like I owe you more than just a thank-you. You’ve done so much for this place already.”

Logan shrugged, wiping his hands on a rag. “You’ll pay me when I’m done.”

She tilted her head, raising an eyebrow. “What if I insist on paying you now?”

“Then I’ll tell you to save it,” he replied, his tone firm but not unkind. “Pay me when the place doesn’t look like it’s been abandoned for a decade.”

She huffed a quiet laugh, shaking her head. “Alright. But don’t think I’ll forget.”

“Wouldn’t expect you to,” he said, the faintest trace of a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.

The next day, Evelyn made another trip into town. The grocery list in her hand was short, but she’d added a few extra items as an excuse to linger. She hadn’t been here long enough to feel like a local, but the townsfolk were friendly, and there was something comforting about the small, familiar faces she’d begun to recognize.

As she browsed the aisles of the general store, she overheard snippets of conversation—the kind of small-town gossip that seemed to flow as easily as the air. Her own name came up more than once, though she tried not to let it bother her. People were curious, that was all. A new face in a place like this was bound to stir interest.

At the counter, Nancy, the ever-cheerful clerk, greeted her with a warm smile. “You’re becoming a regular,” Nancy said, ringing up her items.

“Guess that means I’m settling in,” Evelyn replied with a small smile.

“How’s the cottage coming along?” Nancy asked, handing her a paper bag.

“Better, thanks to Logan,” she said without thinking.

Nancy’s eyebrows lifted. “Logan?”

“Yeah,” Evelyn said, tucking the bag under her arm. “He’s been helping with the repairs.”

Nancy’s expression turned to one of mild disbelief. “Are you sure it was Logan? The Logan Howlett we all know?”

“Pretty sure,” she replied, bemused. “Why? Is it that unusual?”

Nancy chuckled, shaking her head. “Let’s just say Logan’s not exactly known for being… helpful. He keeps to himself, mostly. Always has.”

“Maybe he’s just misunderstood,” Evelyn offered, though she wasn’t entirely sure why she felt the need to defend him.

Nancy gave her a knowing look. “Maybe. Just don’t expect him to change overnight.”

“I’m not looking for him to change,” she said firmly. “I’m not looking for anything, really. Just peace and quiet.”

Nancy smiled, though there was a flicker of something unreadable in her gaze. “Well, Clearwater’s good for that. Just be careful. This town has a way of surprising people.”

As she loaded her groceries into the truck, Evelyn couldn’t shake Nancy’s words. Is it that unusual? She’d already known Logan was an enigma, but the way people spoke about him made it clear there was more to him than met the eye.

The drive back to the cottage was quiet, the sun dipping lower in the sky as the forest swallowed the narrow road. When she pulled into the driveway, she caught sight of the firewood pile again, its edges catching the last light of the day.

For all his gruffness, Logan had shown her more kindness than she’d expected. Maybe even more than she deserved.

She shook her head, brushing the thought away as she carried the groceries inside. Logan was an enigma, yes. But for now, that was all he needed to be.

The gossip didn’t stop there. In a town as small as Clearwater, news spread faster than wildfire. By the end of the week, Evelyn couldn’t step into the general store or the diner without catching snippets of hushed conversations that stopped abruptly when she walked by.

“Did you hear?” a woman whispered to her friend near the bread aisle. “Logan Howlett… helping her? It’s not like him at all.”

“Maybe he’s sweet on her,” the friend replied, giggling softly. “She’s not bad-looking...”

Evelyn felt her cheeks flush as she turned the corner, pretending not to hear. But it didn’t stop. Every visit seemed to bring more murmurs, more speculation. By the time she sat down for lunch at the diner, even the waitress gave her a knowing smile.

“You’ve been busy, huh?” the waitress said, placing a cup of coffee in front of her. “I’ve heard Logan’s been helping you out. That’s… surprising.”

“Not really,” Evelyn replied, trying to sound casual. “He’s just fixing a few things around the house.”

The waitress raised an eyebrow, her smile widening. “Sure, hon. Just fixing a few things.”

Evelyn sighed, staring down at her coffee. The attention made her skin crawl, the way people spoke as if they knew something she didn’t. It was exhausting.

By the time she returned to the cottage that evening, she’d made up her mind. She needed to put some distance between herself and Logan—not because of anything he’d done, but because the town’s chatter was beginning to suffocate her.

She threw herself into her crocheting to distract herself. It was something she’d picked up years ago, a way to calm her restless hands and quiet her thoughts. Now, it became her escape. She spent hours on the porch, weaving intricate patterns into blankets, scarves, and shawls. Her collection grew quickly, and soon she decided to sell them at the local market.

The market became her refuge. Unlike the general store or the diner, it was a place where she could blend in, where the focus was on her work rather than her personal life. She set up a small stall, displaying her pieces with pride. The townsfolk were quick to admire her craftsmanship, and before long, her crocheted goods became a hit.

“These are beautiful,” one woman said, running her fingers over a soft, pastel-colored shawl. “You’ve got quite the talent.”

“Thank you,” Evelyn replied with a genuine smile. “It’s just something I enjoy doing.”

The market gave her a sense of purpose, a way to connect with the town on her own terms. It wasn’t much, but it was enough. For now, it was enough.

By the second month, Evelyn found herself slipping into a rhythm. The days were structured but unhurried, the kind of life she had dreamed of while packing up her old one. Mornings were spent crocheting on the porch, the needles clicking in time with the soft rustle of the trees. Afternoons meant either running errands or preparing for the next market day.

Though she was still getting used to the slower pace, there was something undeniably soothing about it. She didn’t need to prove herself to anyone here. The cottage, the market, and the quiet of the woods offered a strange kind of comfort—like the world had finally stopped expecting things from her.

But that didn’t mean the whispers had stopped.

The market, while a refuge, still carried its share of small-town curiosity.

“Logan’s been helping you, hasn’t he?” a younger woman named Clara asked one afternoon, her eyes sparkling with intrigue as she fingered a crocheted scarf.

Evelyn hesitated, her fingers tightening around the edge of the table. “He’s been kind enough to fix a few things around the house.”

Clara grinned, leaning in slightly. “He must like you. Logan doesn’t do anything he doesn’t want to.”

The comment sent a ripple of unease through her chest, though she forced a polite laugh. “He’s just a good neighbor, that’s all.”

Clara hummed, her expression playful but speculative. “Evelyn, I’ve lived in Clearwater my whole life, and I can tell you Logan isn’t exactly neighborly. You might be the exception.”

Evelyn busied herself with folding a blanket, willing the conversation to end.

Back at the cottage that evening, the air felt heavier than usual. She couldn’t shake Clara’s words—or the weight of the town’s lingering curiosity.

Logan had been nothing but decent, helping her without asking for anything in return. But the more people commented on his unusual behavior, the more aware she became of his presence. Or rather, the absence of it.

It had been over a week since his last visit, and though she told herself she didn’t miss him, the thought of his quiet, grounding presence tugged at the edges of her mind.

The cottage, once a haven, felt emptier now. She tried to shake the feeling, focusing instead on the steady rhythm of her crochet needles.

But when a knock came at the door just after dusk, her heart leapt in a way that made her immediately scold herself.

She opened the door to find Logan standing there, toolbox in hand and his usual unreadable expression fixed on her.

“Evening,” he said simply, nodding toward the door. “You mentioned the kitchen sink still had a drip?”

“I—” She paused, momentarily flustered. “I did, yes. Come in.”

Logan stepped inside, his boots clunking softly against the worn floorboards. He moved toward the sink without preamble, crouching to inspect the pipes beneath it.

As he worked, Evelyn found herself hovering nearby, unsure whether to offer conversation or leave him to it.

“Thank you,” she said finally, breaking the silence.

“For what?” he asked without looking up.

“For coming all this way. You didn’t have to.”

He glanced up briefly, his eyes meeting hers. “You needed help. That’s reason enough.”

His words were simple, but they carried a weight that left her momentarily speechless.

By the time Logan finished the repairs, the sun had fully set, casting the cottage in a warm, golden glow from the fire she’d lit earlier.

“That should hold,” he said, wiping his hands on a rag. “Let me know if it gives you trouble again.”

She nodded, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her sweater. “Do you want to stay for dinner? I’ve got stew on the stove.”

He hesitated, his gaze flicking toward the door before returning to her. “You don’t have to do that.”

“I know,” she said quickly. “But it’s the least I can do.”

Logan studied her for a moment, then gave a small nod. “Alright.”

The meal was quiet but not uncomfortable. They ate at the small kitchen table, the soft crackle of the fire filling the silence.

“Do you ever get tired of this?” she asked suddenly, her voice cutting through the stillness.

“Tired of what?”

“This town. The quiet. The routine.”

Logan set his spoon down, considering her question. “Not really. It’s all I’ve known for a long time.”

She nodded, her fingers brushing against the edge of her bowl. “I used to think I wanted something like this. But now that I’m here, I’m not sure what to do with it.”

“You’re figuring it out,” he said simply.

“Am I?” she asked, a soft laugh escaping her. “Because some days it feels like I’m just… existing.”

Logan’s gaze softened, though his expression remained steady. “Existing’s not a bad place to start.”

His words settled over her like a blanket, heavy but comforting.

As the night wore on and Logan eventually took his leave, Evelyn found herself lingering by the door long after his truck disappeared down the road.

For all her attempts to keep her distance, she couldn’t deny the strange comfort his presence brought. But with the town’s whispers still swirling in her mind, she knew it wouldn’t be that simple.

The next few days passed uneventfully, but Logan’s visit lingered in Evelyn’s mind. His quiet presence, his matter-of-fact words—they stayed with her long after he’d left.

She threw herself into her work, hoping to drown out the thoughts swirling in her head. Her crocheting became more intricate, her market stall fuller, and her days busier. Yet, no matter how much she tried to distract herself, she couldn’t shake the growing awareness of Logan Howlett.

At the market that weekend, she was in the middle of rearranging her display when Clara appeared again, a sly smile already tugging at her lips.

“Looks like business is booming,” Clara said, gesturing toward the crowd that had gathered around the stall.

“Something like that,” Evelyn replied with a polite smile.

“And how’s Logan? Still playing handyman?”

Evelyn stiffened slightly but forced her expression to remain neutral. “He fixed the porch and the sink. That’s about it.”

Clara raised an eyebrow. “Really? Because I heard he stayed for dinner the other night.”

The comment made Evelyn freeze, her heart skipping a beat. “Who told you that?”

Clara shrugged, clearly enjoying herself. “Small town, hon. Nothing stays secret for long.”

“It was just dinner,” Evelyn said firmly, her voice sharper than she intended.

Clara held up her hands in mock surrender. “Hey, I’m just saying—it’s not every day Logan goes out of his way for someone.”

Evelyn didn’t respond, her jaw tight as she turned back to her display. The words followed her for the rest of the market day, crawling under her skin like an itch she couldn’t scratch.

That evening, she returned to the cottage feeling drained. The whispers, the insinuations—they were suffocating. She wasn’t looking for anything with Logan, and she certainly hadn’t invited the town’s scrutiny.

But as she sat on the porch, her crocheting forgotten in her lap, she couldn’t deny the nagging voice in the back of her mind. Why had Logan gone out of his way to help her? And why did his presence feel so… steady?

She shook her head, standing abruptly and heading inside. It didn’t matter. Logan was just a neighbor, nothing more.

Logan wasn’t one to care much about gossip. The town had been talking about him for years—ever since he’d first moved here—and he’d learned to tune it out.

But something about the way they talked about Evelyn set his teeth on edge. The whispers weren’t malicious, but they carried a weight he didn’t like. They made her sound like she needed saving, like she was fragile.

He knew better. She wasn’t fragile—far from it.

Still, he couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that his presence in her life was making things harder for her. And for someone who’d spent years avoiding entanglements, the thought didn’t sit well.

The tension finally came to a head a few days later when Logan showed up at the cottage unannounced.

“Logan,” Evelyn said, startled to see him standing on the porch. “What are you doing here?”

“Checking in,” he said simply, his tone calm but firm. “Heard some things in town.”

Her stomach dropped. 

He nodded, his gaze steady. “Figured I’d see how you’re holding up.”

She crossed her arms, leaning against the doorframe. “I’m fine. I just… wish people would mind their own business.”

“Small towns don’t work that way,” he said bluntly.

She huffed a quiet laugh, though there was no humor in it. “Yeah, I’m starting to realize that.”

For a moment, they stood in silence, the weight of unspoken words hanging between them. Finally, Evelyn spoke.

“Maybe we should keep some distance,” she said softly, her eyes avoiding him.

Logan’s jaw tightened, though his expression didn’t waver. “If that’s what you want.”

“I don’t know what I want,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

His gaze softened, though he didn’t step closer. “Figure it out. I’ll still be around.”

With that, he turned and walked back to his truck, leaving her standing in the doorway, her chest tight with conflicting emotions.

Back in town, the gossip didn’t slow down, but Evelyn tried her best to ignore it. She focused on her crocheting, on the small victories of fixing up the cottage, on finding her footing in a place that still felt half-foreign.

But Logan remained a quiet presence in the back of her mind—steady, unshakable, and more complicated than she wanted to admit.

For the next week, Evelyn made a conscious effort to avoid Logan. It wasn’t easy—not in a town as small as Clearwater, where everyone knew everyone and paths seemed destined to cross. But she managed.

She skipped the diner for lunch, opting to eat at home. She avoided the general store during its busiest hours, running errands only when she was sure Logan wouldn’t be around. At the market, she kept her focus solely on her crocheted goods, packing up early and heading straight back to the cottage.

It wasn’t that she didn’t want to see him. She told herself it was for the best—for both of them. The whispers were becoming unbearable, and her skin prickled every time someone made a passing comment about Logan.

But the avoidance didn’t feel like relief. It felt like suffocation.

Logan noticed the change immediately.

He wasn’t the type to pry, but even he couldn’t ignore the sudden distance. Evelyn had been avoiding him, her absence in town as obvious as the whispers that followed them both.

He didn’t like it.

Not because he was hurt—at least, that’s what he told himself—but because it felt unnecessary. If the town wanted to talk, they’d talk. Avoiding him wouldn’t change that.

Still, he kept his distance. He wasn’t going to push her, wasn’t going to force her into something she clearly didn’t want. But the questions gnawed at him, his mind replaying their last conversation.

The distance between them grew wider with each passing day.

Evelyn spent more time at the cottage, her hands constantly busy with yarn as she tried to keep her thoughts at bay. But the quiet of the woods didn’t offer the same peace it once had. Now, it felt too still, too heavy, as if the air itself were pressing down on her.

She missed Logan’s presence more than she cared to admit. His quiet strength, his straightforwardness—it had been comforting in a way she hadn’t expected. But the weight of the gossip made her hesitate.

One evening, as she sat on the porch, the needles in her hands moving on autopilot, she caught sight of headlights coming down the road. Her heart skipped, and she immediately cursed herself for it.

The truck slowed as it passed, and for a moment, she thought it might stop. But Logan didn’t even glance her way as he drove by, the rumble of his engine fading into the distance.

The next morning, she made her usual trip to the market, hoping to blend in and avoid any further speculation. But as she set up her stall, Clara appeared once again, her expression as curious as ever.

“Morning, Evelyn,” Clara said with a smile that bordered on mischievous.

“Morning,” Evelyn replied, keeping her focus on her crocheting.

“Haven’t seen Logan around lately,” Clara remarked, leaning against the edge of the table. “Did he finally stop playing handyman?”

Evelyn forced a laugh, though it came out more strained than she intended. “He’s busy. Probably has better things to do.”

“Hmm,” Clara hummed, her gaze sharp. “I wouldn’t be so sure about that. Logan doesn’t exactly drop everything for just anyone.”

Evelyn stilled, her fingers brushing over the soft yarn. She kept her tone light, almost playful. “You seem awfully interested in Logan lately. Any particular reason?”

Clara tilted her head, her smile widening slightly. “Just curious, that’s all. He’s been keeping a low profile.”

“Has he?” Evelyn replied, raising an eyebrow. “Funny, I thought you weren’t the type to notice.”

Clara’s smile faltered for just a moment before she straightened up, smoothing her blouse. “Well, I suppose everyone has their reasons for keeping tabs on him.”

Evelyn said nothing, her gaze steady as Clara shifted awkwardly under the weight of the silence. Eventually, Clara cleared her throat and muttered a hasty goodbye, retreating into the bustle of the market.

By the time the market day ended, Evelyn felt like a live wire, every nerve frayed and buzzing.

That evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Logan finally showed up at the cottage.

Evelyn was on the porch, her crocheting abandoned in favor of a mug of tea she’d been nursing for the past hour. She stiffened when she saw his truck pull into the driveway, the headlights cutting through the growing dusk.

He stepped out, his expression calm but with an edge of something she couldn’t quite place.

“Evening,” he said, his voice low as he approached the porch.

“Logan,” she replied, setting her mug down. “What are you doing here?”

“Haven't seen you around,” he said simply, his gaze steady. 

Her chest tightened, guilt mixing with frustration. “I’ve been busy.”

“Yeah,” he said, leaning against the railing. “Heard about that. Been hearing a lot of things, actually.”

The weight of his words settled over her, and she looked away, her hands fidgeting in her lap. “It’s nothing,” she said quietly. “People talk. That’s all.”

Logan’s gaze didn’t waver. “People are always gonna talk. Doesn’t mean you have to listen.”

“I don’t—” She paused, shaking her head. “I just… I didn’t want to make things harder for you.”

“For me?” Logan asked, his brow furrowing.

“Everyone in town keeps bringing you up,” she admitted, her voice trembling slightly. “Everywhere I go, it’s ‘Logan this’ and ‘Logan that.’  And Clara…” She hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “She seems especially interested.”

Logan tilted his head slightly, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Clara’s just mad I said no.Let her talk.”

Evelyn blinked, caught off guard. “Said no to what?”

He leaned casually against the porch railing, his tone even, as though the subject carried no weight for him. “She wanted more than I was willing to give. Didn’t take it too well.”

Evelyn frowned, unsure whether to feel relieved or unsettled. “And now she’s making it everyone’s business?”

Logan shrugged. “Let her. It’s not worth losing sleep over.”

“That’s easy for you to say,” Evelyn muttered, her frustration spilling over. “You’re not the one constantly dodging whispers and side-eyes.”

Logan tilted his head slightly, his gaze steady but not pressing. “You’re new. Small town like this, folks are always looking for something to gossip about. Just don’t let them drag you into it.”

She nodded, keeping her eyes on the darkening horizon. “I just didn’t want to drag you into it.”

Logan huffed a quiet laugh, though there was no humor in it. “You think I care what they say about me?”

She looked at him then, her chest tightening at the honesty in his gaze. “I don’t know. Do you?”

“No,” he said firmly, his voice steady. “But I care if it’s making you miserable.”

The admission caught her off guard, and she stared at him, unsure how to respond.

“I’m not gonna stop helping,” he continued, his tone softening slightly. “If you want me to stay away, I will. But don’t think for a second that you’re bothering me.”

The tension in her chest loosened, replaced by a strange, quiet warmth. “I don’t want you to stay away,” she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper.

Logan nodded, his expression unreadable but calm. “Good.”

He lingered for a moment longer, then turned and headed back to his truck. As she watched him drive away, the weight she’d been carrying felt a little lighter.

A week after Logan’s unexpected visit, Evelyn finally had a landline installed in the cottage. It wasn’t exactly a modern convenience—Clearwater’s phone system still felt a few decades behind—but it was enough to ease the distance between her and the outside world.

She’d been putting off calling her family, but the persistent weight of their unanswered letters pushed her to dial the number.

The phone rang twice before her mother picked up.

“Evelyn!” her mother’s voice burst through the receiver, equal parts relief and reproach. “I was beginning to think you’d forgotten about us.”

She laughed softly, tucking the cord under her arm as she cradled the phone. “I’m sorry, Mom. Things have just been...busy.”

“Well, I hope you’re not working yourself into a frenzy out there,” her mother said, her tone turning slightly worried. “Have you been eating properly? Are you safe?”

“I’m fine, really,” Evelyn assured her. “I’ve even started crocheting again. And I’ve made some friends—well, acquaintances, really. The town’s nice.”

Her mother paused, as if weighing her daughter’s words. “And how’s the cottage?”

“Coming along,” she replied. “It’s still a mess, but it’s my mess. I’ve been making repairs.”

“Oh?” her mother said, curiosity piqued. “You? Making repairs?”

“Well...not exactly,” Evelyn admitted, glancing out the window as if Logan’s truck might magically appear. “There’s someone in town who’s been helping.”

Before her mother could ask more, a knock at the door interrupted her train of thought.

“Mom, I’ve got to go. I’ll call you soon, okay?”

Her mother sighed but relented. “Alright, but don’t let it be another month before I hear from you again.”

“I won’t,” Evelyn promised, hanging up just as the knock sounded again.

She opened the door to find Logan standing there, toolbox in hand and his usual calm expression in place.

“Morning,” he said, nodding toward her.

“Morning,” she replied, stepping aside to let him in. “You’ve got impeccable timing.”

Logan raised an eyebrow as he set the toolbox down. “That right?”

“I just got my landline installed,” she explained, gesturing toward the phone perched on the counter. “First call I made was to my mom. She was, uh, very curious about how I’m ‘surviving.’”

Logan huffed softly, a sound that might’ve been a laugh. “Moms tend to be like that.”

“Yours the same way?” she asked before she could stop herself.

Logan paused, his gaze flicking to her briefly before returning to the toolbox. “She was,” he said simply, his tone giving nothing away.

Evelyn nodded, sensing the line she’d accidentally toed. “Well, she’s just happy I’m not starving in the middle of nowhere.”

“You talk to them often?” Logan asked, his voice casual as he pulled out a wrench.

“Not as often as I should,” she admitted, leaning against the counter. “I think it worries them—me being out here on my own.”

“They know you can handle yourself?” he asked, glancing up at her.

“I think they do,” she replied, a small smile tugging at her lips. “But parents worry, no matter how capable you are.”

Logan nodded, his hands steady as he worked. “Smart to have a phone. This place feels cut off sometimes.”

“Yeah,” she said, watching him thoughtfully. “But I think that’s part of why I chose it.”

He didn’t respond right away, but there was a quiet understanding in his expression.

As Logan worked on repairing a leaky pipe under the kitchen sink, Evelyn found herself lingering nearby, the sound of his tools filling the space between them.

“So, do you ever get tired of fixing things?” she asked, tilting her head.

Logan’s lips twitched, the faintest hint of a smirk. “Depends on what’s broken.”

“That’s a very diplomatic answer,” she said, raising an eyebrow.

He straightened, wiping his hands on a rag. “Keeps people from asking too many questions.”

Evelyn laughed softly, shaking her head. “Fair enough.”

When Logan finished the repairs, he packed up his tools with his usual efficiency. But as he turned to leave, she stopped him.

“Hey,” she said, her voice softer than before. “Thanks. For everything. I mean it.”

Logan met her gaze, his expression as steady as always, though there was a flicker of something warmer in his eyes. “You’re welcome.”

He hesitated for a moment, as if considering whether to say more, but then he gave a brief nod and stepped out the door.

As she watched him drive away, Evelyn couldn’t help but feel the weight of his words—and the ones he hadn’t spoken. For someone who kept to himself, Logan had a way of saying just enough to leave her wondering.

Logan didn’t go straight home after leaving the cottage. Instead, he headed toward the logging site, the truck bouncing slightly over the uneven dirt road. The early morning fog had lifted, leaving the forest bathed in crisp, golden light.

The hum of chainsaws echoed in the distance as he pulled into the clearing where the crew was already at work. He climbed out, toolbox in hand, and gave a short nod to the men gathered near the equipment shed.

“Look who decided to show up,” one of the workers, a wiry man named Pete, called out, grinning as he leaned against a stack of freshly cut logs.

Logan ignored the comment, tossing his gloves onto a workbench and pulling an axe from the rack.

“Been busy, Howlett?” Rick added, his grin laced with curiosity. “Heard you’ve been spending a lot of time down by the river. Something there more interesting than timber?”

The words were casual enough, but Logan could hear the underlying curiosity—the small-town hunger for gossip. He shot Rick a look, one that would’ve made most people back off, but Rick just chuckled, undeterred.

“C’mon, man,” Rick said, slinging an arm over Pete’s shoulder. “We’re just curious. Word is you’ve been playing handyman for that new girl in town. You helping her out of the kindness of your heart, or is there something we should know?”

Logan’s jaw tightened as he adjusted his gloves, ignoring the bait.

“Quiet type, huh?” Pete piped up, grinning. “Bet she likes that.”

Logan straightened, his gaze cold as it swept over them. “You got time to gossip, you got time to work,” he said flatly, grabbing his axe and heading toward the tree line.

Rick raised his hands in mock surrender, smirking. “Alright, alright. No need to get touchy.”

But the murmurs didn’t stop as Logan walked away, their voices carrying faintly through the trees.

He worked with single-minded focus, each swing of the axe driving out the noise from earlier. The rhythmic crack of wood splitting echoed in the quiet, his muscles moving with the practiced ease of someone who’d spent years in this line of work.

And yet, his thoughts kept circling back to her.

Evelyn.

He didn’t know what it was about her that stuck with him. Maybe it was the way she tried to act so put-together, even when it was clear she was holding herself together with frayed edges. Or maybe it was how she looked at him—not with fear or judgment, but with something closer to curiosity.

She was different. That much was obvious. And not just because she was new to Clearwater.

Logan had spent most of his life keeping people at arm’s length, and for good reason. People in this town loved to talk, to pry, to dig into business that wasn’t theirs. It was easier to stay quiet, to keep to himself.

But Evelyn wasn’t prying. If anything, she seemed to guard her own secrets just as fiercely as he guarded his.

That’s what made the town’s chatter so irritating. The way they twisted something simple—him fixing her porch, patching her roof—into something more.

As if they knew him.

As if they knew her.

The crack of a falling tree pulled him from his thoughts, and he stepped back, watching the trunk crash to the ground with a satisfying thud. He adjusted his gloves and moved to the next tree, letting the rhythm of the work take over again.

Later that day, during lunch, Rick plopped down on the stump next to him, unwrapping a sandwich. “So, what’s she like?” he asked casually, taking a bite.

Logan didn’t look up. “Who?”

Rick rolled his eyes. “Don’t play dumb Howlett. The new girl. Evelyn.”

“She’s none of your business,” Logan said, his tone leaving no room for argument.

“Aw, c’mon,” Rick said, grinning. “We’re just curious. Pretty girl like that, all alone out there… Kinda hard not to wonder, y’know?”

Logan set his axe down with deliberate slowness, his gaze sharp as it met Rick’s. “You wonder too much, Rick.”

Pete snorted from a nearby log. “Take it easy, Howlett. Nobody’s accusing you of anything. Not yet, anyway.”

Logan’s silence was enough to make them shift uncomfortably. He picked up his axe and stood, brushing past them without another word.

As he returned to the tree line, the faint sound of their laughter followed him. But it didn’t bother him—not really. What bothered him was the way they talked about her, like she was some kind of novelty.

They didn’t know her. And if he had his way, they never would.

By the time Logan finished for the day, the sun was dipping low, casting long shadows through the trees. His truck rumbled down the dirt road, the smell of pine and sawdust still clinging to his clothes.

As he drove down the dirt road, the turnoff to Evelyn’s cottage came into view. He slowed slightly, his eyes flicking toward the driveway. Her truck was parked there, and the faint glow of light spilled from the windows, warm and inviting.

He thought about stopping. About checking in, just to make sure everything was alright.

But he didn’t.

Instead, he kept driving, the weight of the day settling heavily on his shoulders.

Logan had grown accustomed to the rhythm of life in Clearwater, to the predictable routines and quiet moments. But he hadn’t realized how much of that rhythm had come to include Evelyn—not until her truck disappeared from the driveway.

It had been a few days since he’d last seen her at the cottage. He’d stopped by on Wednesday to drop off some spare firewood, but there had been no answer when he knocked. The house had been dark, the truck conspicuously absent, and he’d left without pressing further.

By the end of the week, curiosity turned into something heavier—a weight in his chest he couldn’t explain.

The chatter at the logging site hadn’t helped.

“You hear she’s gone?” Pete said during lunch, biting into a sandwich. “Packed up and left, just like that.”

Logan’s grip tightened on his thermos. “She didn’t leave,” he said flatly.

“You sure about that?” Pete pressed, his grin smug. “Haven’t seen her around. Maybe she got tired of all the attention.”

“Or maybe,” Rick chimed in, “she figured out Clearwater’s not as quiet as she thought.”

Logan shot them both a glare that could’ve split wood faster than his axe. “You don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said, his voice low and cold.

Pete held up his hands in mock surrender. “Alright, alright. Just saying—wouldn’t blame her if she did.”

Logan didn’t respond. He stood abruptly, tossing the rest of his lunch into the trash before heading back to the tree line.

The thought lingered with him throughout the day, the idea that she might’ve left because of the town’s relentless gossip. He’d heard it himself, the whispers about how she’d been spending time with him, the not-so-subtle insinuations that made his jaw tighten.

If she had left, it wasn’t because of him—or at least, that’s what he told himself. But the nagging doubt refused to fade.

That evening, as the sun dipped low behind the trees, he found himself driving past her cottage again. The driveway was still empty, the windows dark.

His chest tightened.

Meanwhile, Evelyn was far from Clearwater, setting up her crochet stall at a bustling weekend market two towns over. The trip had been planned for weeks, a way to expand her reach and bring in some extra income.

The market was a flurry of activity—families strolling between stalls, vendors shouting their deals, the air thick with the scent of roasted nuts and fresh bread.

She’d sold almost half her inventory by midday, the colorful shawls and intricate scarves drawing plenty of attention. But even as she smiled and thanked customers, her thoughts drifted back to the cottage.

And, inevitably, to Logan.

She hadn’t meant to avoid him—at least, not entirely. The gossip around town had started to wear on her, the constant murmurs and sidelong glances making her feel more exposed than she’d anticipated.

Selling her crocheted pieces had been a welcome distraction, a way to step away from the whispers and reclaim a little of the independence she’d worked so hard to build. But even now, standing in the middle of the crowded market, she couldn’t quite shake the thought of him.

When she returned late Sunday evening, the sky already dark, her headlights illuminated a figure standing on the edge of her driveway.

Her heart skipped. Logan.

He turned as the truck rolled to a stop, his expression unreadable but his posture rigid. She climbed out slowly, exhaustion tugging at her limbs.

“Evening,” she said hesitantly, pulling her bag from the passenger seat.

“Evening,” he replied, his tone as steady as ever, though his eyes lingered on her. “You’ve been gone a while.”

“I had a market to get to,” she explained, gesturing toward the back of the truck where the last of her unsold pieces sat. “Thought it’d be a good way to... branch out.”

Logan’s gaze flicked to the truck bed, then back to her. “Didn’t tell anyone you were leaving.”

“I didn’t think I needed to,” she said, tilting her head. “Why? Did something happen?”

He hesitated, his jaw tightening. “People noticed. Started talking.”

“People always talk,” she said with a shrug, though her stomach twisted at the thought.

“They thought you’d left,” Logan said bluntly.

She blinked, taken aback. “Left? Why would I—” She paused, realization dawning. “Because of the gossip?”

Logan didn’t answer, but the way his gaze shifted told her enough.

A mix of guilt and frustration bubbled up inside her. “I’m not running away,” she said firmly, her voice steadier than she felt. “Not from this place, and definitely not because of what people think. I’m here for me, not for them.”

Logan’s expression softened, just slightly, and he gave a small nod. “Good.”

She sighed, leaning against the truck. “I’m sorry if I worried you.”

“You didn’t,” he said quickly, too quickly.

Her lips quirked into a faint smile. “Sure.”

For a moment, they stood there in silence, the night settling around them. Finally, Logan gestured toward the truck bed. “Need a hand unloading?”

She hesitated, then nodded. “Yeah. Thanks.”

As they worked together, the tension eased, replaced by the quiet camaraderie she was beginning to expect from him. And as they carried the last of the boxes into the cottage, she couldn’t help but feel a little lighter, the weight of the town’s whispers fading into the background.

By the time they finished unloading the truck, the cottage was filled with the faint smell of lavender and cedar, remnants from the crocheted pieces she hadn’t sold. Evelyn leaned against the counter, watching as Logan wiped his hands on a rag he’d pulled from his pocket.

“Thanks for the help,” she said, her voice softer now.

Logan gave her a short nod, his usual response, but there was something different in the way he lingered by the door.

“Guess the market was worth the trip?” he asked, his tone casual but his gaze steady.

“It was,” she replied, brushing her hair back. “People seemed to like what I had. Sold most of it.”

“Good,” he said simply.

The silence that followed wasn’t uncomfortable, but it was heavy—filled with things unsaid.

“Wait,” Evelyn said suddenly, straightening. She crossed the room and opened a small wooden chest she kept by the couch, rummaging through the neatly folded scarves and shawls she’d brought back from the market.

Logan watched her, his brow furrowing slightly. “What’re you doing?”

She didn’t answer right away, pulling out a dark, hand-crocheted scarf with subtle patterns woven into the soft yarn. Turning, she held it out to him.

“Here,” she said, her tone light but her expression earnest. “For you.”

He hesitated, his gaze flicking between her and the scarf. “I don’t need that.”

“It’s not about needing it,” she replied, stepping closer. “It’s a thank-you. For all the help with the cottage. And the firewood.”

Logan stared at the scarf for a moment longer, as if debating whether to take it. Finally, he reached out, his large hand brushing hers briefly as he accepted the gift.

“You didn’t have to do this,” he said quietly, his voice softer than she’d ever heard it.

“I wanted to,” she replied, her smile small but genuine. “And besides, winters here get cold, right? Consider it practical.”

A faint smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth, but it was gone almost as quickly as it appeared. He glanced down at the scarf, running his thumb over the intricate stitching.

“It’s nice,” he said after a beat, his tone thoughtful. “You’re good at this.”

The praise, simple as it was, warmed her more than she expected. “Thanks,” she said softly.

Logan nodded, folding the scarf carefully before tucking it under his arm. “See you around,” he said, his voice steady again.

“Yeah,” she replied, watching as he stepped out into the night. “See you.”

She stood by the door, listening to the sound of his truck rumble down the driveway and fade into the quiet of the forest.

The gossip might not stop, and her life here might not get easier overnight. But as she looked around the cottage, now filled with the warmth of her handiwork and the faint echoes of Logan’s presence, she felt something she hadn’t in a long time.

Hope.

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[things-arent-what-they-seem66]

((Umm...... Lucifer did grab their rings 😅))

He had to make heaven think he was serious and that he wasn't going to be coming for Adam so it wouldn't be obvious, how could Adam seriously think he didn't matter to him?

Lucifer risked everything for him, he beat the shit out of an archangel for him! He was a little more focused on making sure they got the fuck out and didn't die.

He ran his hands down his face, he's so tired and he just wants to hold his fucking husband but he can't even have that.

Lucifer growled and hit his fists on his thighs only to hit something in his pocket: Ow!! The fuck is in there?

Angrily he shoved his hand in his pocket and he touched something small and smooth. Two somethings. Pulling them out part of wanted to fucking cry and the other wanted to throw them in frustration.

Their wedding rings. He forgot he picked them up when he grabbed Michael's sword.

Would have been nice to remember that five fucking minutes ago.......

Lucifer slipped his on his finger and looked at it, he remembered when Adam gave it to him and how amazing it felt and how happy he had been. How could he think any random replacement ring would have been okay? It would look okay, but they would be the real rings the true symbols of their love.

Lucifer cried, he found a piece of paper placed Adams ring on it with his name on it and placed it somewhere he would see it.

If he even wanted it anymore. Or him.

Lucifer never should have taken his fucking ring off and he never would again, he'd super glue it to his fucking finger if that would make Adam happy.

He left for what was now his office, maybe he could find something about this extermination day. Though he was certain it was exactly as it sounded.

Opening the office door, Lucifer was grateful that Satan was well organized the place was in good order.

Lucifer sat down and got to reading, he supposed he should know these things as King now......

Oh who the fuck was he kidding, he was as much a King as that fucking pen was.

-

Charlie: That was amazing!

Adam: See? There's a lot you can do kid.

She felt so energized and it was nice to finally have some one on one time with Adam. They had been at it for hours and now she was a little pooped.

Charlie: Adam? Can I ask you something?

Adam: Yeah sure.

Charlie: Are you two okay?

Adam froze: Look, that's-

Charlie: Because we spent a week working out the perfect plan to save you and the first thing you do when you get home is fight......... I know you're hurt.... But he loves you.

They spent a week on a plan to help him?

Adam: Charlie -

Charlie: Look, maybe it's none of my business but he made a mistake. Haven't you made mistakes?

Adam has made plenty of mistakes especially in their relationship. His biggest one killed Lucifer.

Adam: ...... Let's just call it a night.

Charlie sighed but nodded and went to her room. Adam probably should find him and talk about..... Even a little.

Adam: Lu?

He wasn't in the throne room, but a piece of paper caught his eye...... With a ring on it.

With a shaky hand, Adam picked up the ring. His ring. He could tell from the wear and the engraving on the inside..

Adam: Fuck....

He slipped it onto his finger and it was a perfect fit. When did he get this?

He needs to find him.

Adam walked around until he found the office where Lucifer was sitting behind the desk. He tried not to laugh, Lucifer looked so small sitting behind that giant desk. Papers everywhere, he looked so tired and broken.

And he had his ring on.

Adam: Lu?

Lucifer jumped, he didn't hear him walk up. He felt his heart break, was Adam here to tell him it was over? For good? He really tried not to cry but he should have known he never deserved to be with Adam, who was a fucking God of all things.

Lucifer: Y-yeah?

He was going to cry this was too much.

Adam came closer and before he could say anything Lucifer just broke down crying and apologizing.

Lucifer, his voice thick with emotion: I-I-I'm sorry, I'm so fucking sorry! I just wanted to get you back, I wasn't thinking. You mean everything to me, I-I-I love you so much, please I'm so sorry.

He sobbed and he didn't care, if Adam wanted to take his axe and split him in half he'd let him, he didn't care.

Lucifer didn't want to live in a world where Adam didn't love him.

I miss our God!Adam Au

Sequel 👀

In Canada Eh! Lmao

CANADA FOREVER

Yes plsss! I miss our stupid, power-hungry boy 😫😫

[theartofcollapse]

I am LIVING for your Casey fics!! Tysm 💞💞

could I please request a female reader x Casey where r is dating Casey and Olivia benson is readers mum. R end up in the hospital like a car accident or smth and Casey is there when Liv gets the calls and insists on going with her which liv thinks is really weird but lets her; she stays the whole time and when they’re finally allowed in to see r who is asleep Olivia confronts Casey as to why she’s there and she says “I’m in love with your daughter” reader wakes up and hears it hehe thankbuuu <333

a/n: thank you, I appreciate it!! and thanks for requesting, love, I hope you like it. summary: read it above pairing: Casey Novak x female reader warnings: none word count: 1.3K

masterlist

Accident - Casey Novak

The day was routine, the hum of work filling the SVU precinct. Olivia Benson sat at her desk, pouring over a witness statement. Casey Novak was nearby, discussing legal strategies with Elliot, her voice confident as she gestured animatedly. It was a typical day until it wasn’t.

Olivia’s phone buzzed on the desk, an unknown number flashing on the screen. She answered briskly, as always. “Detective Benson.”

The voice on the other end was calm but carried that clinical detachment Olivia had learned to dread. “This is Bellevue Hospital. Are you the emergency contact for Y/N Benson?”

The world tilted, her breath catching in her throat. “Yes,” she said, her voice sharp and urgent. “That’s my daughter. What happened?”

“She was in a car accident. She’s stable, but we need you to come to the hospital.”

Olivia stood abruptly, her chair screeching across the floor. “I’m on my way,” she said, her voice tight and controlled despite the fear clawing at her chest.

Casey, who had been in mid-sentence with Elliot, froze when she caught Olivia’s expression. She had never seen Olivia look like that, wide-eyed and pale, her usual steady demeanor shattered. Casey was at her side in a heartbeat. “Liv? What is it?”

“It’s Y/N,” Olivia said, her voice almost breaking. “She’s been in an accident. I have to...” She started toward the door, already grabbing her coat.

“I’m coming with you,” Casey said immediately, her tone leaving no room for argument.

Olivia turned, startled by Casey’s insistence. “Casey, you don’t have to—”

“I need to,” Casey cut her off, her eyes blazing with determination. Her chest felt tight, her heart pounding as if it might burst. She couldn’t explain it, couldn’t say the words she had been swallowing for months, not now, not here. But the thought of something happening to Y/N, the woman who had quietly, completely stolen her heart, was unbearable. “Please, Liv.”

Olivia hesitated, thrown by the raw urgency in Casey’s voice. She had never seen Casey like this. For a moment, she wondered why her presence seemed so important to the ADA, but there was no time to question it. She nodded curtly, and they left together.

The ride to the hospital was suffocating. Olivia gripped the steering wheel tightly, her knuckles white, her thoughts spiraling into dark places despite the hospital staff’s assurance that Y/N was stable. Her baby - her Y/N - was lying in a hospital bed, hurt. The thought was too much.

Beside her, Casey sat rigid, her hands clenched in her lap. She felt like she couldn’t breathe, her mind racing with images she didn’t want to see, Y/N unconscious, Y/N in pain, Y/N slipping away before she ever had the chance to say everything she felt. Her chest felt heavy, every moment in the car stretching into eternity. She wanted to ask Olivia to drive faster, but she knew better than to interrupt the laser-focused panic that radiated off her.

“Who called?” Casey finally asked, her voice quieter than usual.

“Bellevue. They said she’s stable,” Olivia replied, but her tone was clipped, betraying how little comfort those words gave her. “That’s all I know.”

Casey nodded, staring out the window but not seeing anything. She tried to focus on those words - “she’s stable” - but they felt so fragile, so thin. Like they could shatter at any moment. She pressed her lips together, willing herself not to fall apart. Y/N needed her to hold it together. Olivia needed her to hold it together.

When they reached the hospital, Olivia moved with purpose, her steps quick and decisive as she approached the front desk. Casey followed close behind, her stomach twisting into knots.

“I’m here for Y/N Benson,” Olivia said sharply.

The receptionist scanned her computer. “She’s in the emergency ward, room 312. She’s stable.”

Olivia nodded and turned, but Casey noticed her shoulders drop slightly in relief at the confirmation. They followed the directions to the waiting area outside Y/N’s room, where they were met by a doctor.

“Detective Benson?” the doctor asked, and Olivia stepped forward immediately.

“Yes. How is she?”

The doctor smiled gently. “She’s stable. She suffered a mild concussion and some bruising, but there’s no internal bleeding or fractures. She’s very lucky.”

Olivia sagged against the wall for a moment, exhaling a shaky breath she didn’t realize she had been holding. Relief surged through her, warm and overwhelming. But the relief only partially dulled the lingering panic, her daughter had been hurt, and Olivia needed to see her, to hold her hand, to make sure she was really okay.

Casey, standing slightly behind her, let out a breath she didn’t realize she was holding. The tension in her chest loosened just slightly. But even with the doctor’s reassurance, the need to see Y/N - to touch her, to make sure she was truly okay - didn’t abate.

“You can go in,” the doctor said, “but she’s still asleep.”

Olivia nodded and moved toward the door. Casey hesitated for a split second before following, unable to stay behind.

The sight of Y/N in the hospital bed hit Olivia like a punch to the gut. Her daughter looked so small, so fragile, lying pale and motionless against the stark white sheets. Olivia moved to her side immediately, brushing a strand of hair from Y/N’s face, her fingers trembling slightly.

Casey hovered near the door, her heart pounding painfully in her chest. Seeing Y/N like this, even just asleep, made her knees weak. She wanted to rush to her side, to hold her hand, but she wasn’t sure if she had the right. She didn’t know where she stood, not with Y/N, not with Olivia.

For several long moments, the room was quiet except for the soft beeping of the monitors. Finally, Olivia turned to Casey, her brow furrowing. “Casey, why are you here?” she asked, her voice quieter than usual but edged with genuine confusion. “You didn’t have to come.”

Casey froze. Her throat tightened, panic surging as she tried to find the words. She couldn’t lie, not here, not now, not after the terror she’d felt all day. She looked at Olivia, her green eyes filled with something raw and vulnerable. “I… I’m here because I’m in love with your daughter.”

The confession tumbled out, unplanned but undeniable, and Casey immediately felt the weight of it. Her heart raced as Olivia stared at her, stunned. The silence was deafening.

“You’re what?” a groggy voice croaked from the bed.

Both women turned sharply to see Y/N blinking blearily, her voice hoarse but her expression faintly amused.

Casey’s panic dissolved into something softer, her shoulders relaxing as she stepped closer to the bed. “I’m in love with you,” she repeated, her voice steadier this time, her gaze locked on Y/N’s.

Y/N blinked again, her lips curving into a faint smile despite the exhaustion etched into her features. “Took you long enough,” she mumbled, her tone teasing but affectionate.

Casey let out a soft laugh, the tension finally melting from her. She reached out, hesitating for just a moment before taking Y/N’s hand gently in hers.

Olivia watched the exchange, her shock fading into something like realization. She crossed her arms, her protective instincts warring with the knowledge that she had seen how Casey looked at Y/N and how Y/N looked at Casey.

After a long moment, Olivia sighed. “We’ll talk about this later,” she said, her tone firm but not unkind.

For now, she let it go. Watching Casey and Y/N, Olivia realized that maybe her daughter was in good hands.

[xoxorealitygalore]

Trust and Believe IV

summary: Keyshia and Joe had a seemingly perfect life together after marrying in 2010. However, as their careers grew, so did the strain on their relationship. When Joe cheats on Keyshia. The emotional fallout from the incident leaves their relationship hanging in the balance, with Keyshia questioning if they could ever recover from the betrayal.

Joe had just returned home from Los Angeles, his mind still buzzing from the whirlwind events surrounding WWE’s Raw on Netflix premiere. He had spent most of the weekend on the road, surrounded by bright lights, cameras, and the familiar faces of the wrestling world. But now, back in his own home, everything felt off. It was too quiet. The kind of silence that felt unnatural. As if something was missing. Something… or someone.

The house was cold—an icy chill in the air that made Joe shiver as he stepped over the threshold. He dropped his bag by the door and looked around, squinting in the dim light. The place felt empty. He should have been used to this by now. Keyshia and the kids often did their own thing when he was away. But tonight, it felt different. Too empty. Too still.

"Kids? Keyshia?" he called out, his voice echoing down the hallway.

Nothing. No footsteps. No distant sound of laughter or TV noise. It was like the house had been abandoned. He tried again, a little louder this time. "Keyshia?"

His pulse quickened, the first flicker of panic creeping in. He walked deeper into the house, his shoes clicking against the hardwood floors. The living room was quiet, the kitchen untouched. The refrigerator door was ajar, but nothing else seemed to have moved. He knew from experience that Keyshia liked to keep everything in its place, and this absence—this unnerving silence—felt like a sharp contrast to the usual chaos of their home.

He stood in the middle of the room, his chest tight. Where were they? He glanced at the clock. It was almost 10 p.m. The kids should have been home, settling into their routines for the night. He should’ve at least heard something. Maybe they went out for a while? But even as the thought crossed his mind, he knew something was off. He had just left for the weekend, and everything had been fine. So why the sudden disappearance?

His stomach sank as a wave of worry hit him. Did she leave me? The thought flashed through his mind like a jagged shard of glass. He shoved it away immediately, unwilling to even entertain the idea. But the more he thought about it, the more the question lingered. Had she finally had enough of his mistakes? Had she taken the kids and walked out on him? The guilt began to gnaw at him. It wasn’t hard to imagine why.

He couldn’t shake the image of the woman he’d brought back to his penthouse in Miami. It had been a mistake, a moment of weakness, but that was no excuse. Joe knew the truth—he had betrayed Keyshia’s trust. It wasn’t just about the fling, it was about the years of taking her for granted, of assuming that no matter what, she would always be there. The thought of losing her, of losing his family, twisted something deep within him.

This is my fault. I shouldn’t have done that. I’ve lost her.

The panic intensified as he walked through the house. He checked every room, every closet, even the garage. Nothing. No bags packed, no signs of a departure. His mind reeled, trying to figure out what had happened. Why was she gone? Had they argued? He hadn’t even spoken to her much over the weekend, caught up in the chaos of the premiere. They had texted, but it had been brief. He thought everything was fine.

But now, standing in the empty house, he realized how wrong he had been.

Desperation surged through him, and he fumbled for his phone. His fingers were shaky as he dialed Keyshia’s sister, LaKenya. LaKenya was three years older than Keyshia, and if anyone could give him some answers, it would be her. Joe had always thought that LaKenya knew her sister better than anyone else—sometimes even better than he did.

The phone rang three times before LaKenya’s voice picked up.

"What do you want?" she asked, her tone clipped.

Joe’s heart raced as he exhaled sharply. "The house is empty. Do you know where Keyshia and the kids are?"

For a long moment, there was silence on the other end. Then, LaKenya’s voice came through, dripping with sarcasm. "I hope that slut was worth it."

Joe’s stomach dropped. What the hell?

Before he could respond, the line went dead. She had hung up on him.

Joe stared at his phone in disbelief. Anger mixed with confusion and hurt. He didn’t understand. Why was she acting like this? He felt the sting of her words deep in his chest, the guilt becoming even harder to bear. I’ve messed up... But this?

As he stood there, holding his phone, he felt his heart drop into his stomach.

Back at LaKenya’s house, the reality of the situation set in. Keyshia was sitting on the couch next to her sister, watching the drama unfold. She couldn’t help but smirk as Joe’s frantic voice filled the airwaves, his desperation practically leaping through the phone.

"That was so mean," Keyshia said, glancing sideways at her older sister.

LaKenya chuckled, her eyes gleaming with mischief. "You gotta make them sweat a little. Let him feel the heat."

Keyshia rolled her eyes, but a small part of her couldn’t help but feel a bit entertained by the scene she had just orchestrated. She hadn’t exactly been communicative with Joe over the weekend, letting him stew in his own anxiety. She had planned the whole thing with LaKenya as a way of taking control, making him feel the weight of his actions. But even as she enjoyed the moment, there was a part of her that started to feel the sting of guilt.

He really is freaking out, she thought, her heart softening just a little. Maybe I should’ve told him where we were.

LaKenya, still amused, leaned back in her chair. "He deserves it. He hasn’t been paying attention to you, and now he gets a taste of what it feels like."

Keyshia sighed, folding her arms over her chest. "I don’t know. What if he reports me and the kids as missing? What if he thinks I really left him?"

LaKenya shrugged, unconcerned. "Then he’s a bigger fool than I thought. He should’ve kept his act together."

Keyshia nodded slowly, but there was a flicker of doubt in her eyes. She couldn’t just let Joe twist in the wind forever. As much as she wanted him to feel the consequences of his actions, she wasn’t cruel. "I’ll call him in an hour and let him know where we are," she said, finally relenting.

LaKenya raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk curling on her lips. "Yeah, let him sweat a little longer. He’s got to learn."

Meanwhile, back at Joe’s house, the sinking feeling in his chest hadn’t abated. He had tried calling Keyshia again, but this time, her phone went straight to voicemail. Frustration boiled over as he paced the living room, dialing another number. His cousins—Joshua, Jon, and Jon’s wife, Trinity—were on the other end of the line now, and he needed answers.

"LaKenya was no help," Joe muttered, rubbing his temples as he slumped into a chair. He could feel the spiral beginning, the downward pull of panic and regret. His chest was tight, his mind a mess of questions. "I don’t know where she is. It’s like they disappeared. I don’t get it."

Joshua’s voice came through, steady and calm. "Relax, Uce. Maybe she’s with one of her relatives or friends. It’s not the end of the world."

Jon, always the optimistic one, added, "Yeah, man. She’s probably just spending time with family. You know how it is. Don’t jump to conclusions."

Trinity, however, didn’t have the same reassuring tone. She could hear the desperation in Joe’s voice, and as much as she hated to admit it, she knew the truth. If Keyshia left him, then he has to face it. She sighed quietly before speaking, her voice softer. "Joe, if she left you, you have to accept it. Don’t make this harder on yourself."

Joe stood up, pacing once more, his mind racing. "I know, but still… she should have said something. She should’ve at least called me."

Joshua tried again, trying to bring some peace to the situation. "She’s probably just busy, man. You’re overthinking this."

But Joe wasn’t so sure anymore. He was spiraling, unable to stop the flood of guilt and fear that washed over him. If Keyshia had left, it was because of him. And the thought of losing her—of losing his family—was more than he could bear.

When Keyshia and the kids finally arrived back at the house later the next day, the moment they stepped through the front door, she was immediately struck by the overwhelming scent of roses.

She blinked, taking in the sight in front of her. The entire living room and dining area were transformed into a sea of deep red roses—leading her eyes to the carefully arranged vases standing on almost every available surface. There were tall glass vases on the coffee table, the dining table, and even the console table near the hallway.

Keyshia's breath caught in her throat. She hadn’t expected this—hadn’t even considered that Joe might be trying to do something to win her back. She had been so wrapped up in her own frustrations, so convinced that he had given up on their relationship that the lavish gesture almost knocked the wind out of her.

"Joe?" she called out, her voice trembling slightly, unsure of what she was walking into.

No sooner had she said his name than he appeared from the hallway, his face a mixture of relief and anxiety, his eyes searching hers like a man who had been holding his breath for far too long.

Before she could react, Joe rushed toward her. Without a word, he grabbed her in a tight, desperate embrace, his arms wrapping around her like a vise. His chest pressed against hers, his breath ragged in her ear. Keyshia froze for a moment, her body stiff against his, before the weight of the situation hit her. His arms felt like a lifeline.

"I’m so sorry," Joe whispered, his voice hoarse as he buried his face in her shoulder. "I’m so sorry for everything, baby. Please... I didn’t mean to hurt you. Please don’t leave me. I can’t lose you."

Keyshia’s breath hitched, the overwhelming sense of emotion from the gesture, from his words, leaving her momentarily speechless. She had expected anger or perhaps more of the cold silence she’d felt over the weekend. But this—this raw, desperate apology—caught her off guard. The last few months had been filled with so much uncertainty, so much doubt. She had thought she was prepared to face whatever came next. But now, with him holding her like this, she wasn’t sure what to feel anymore.

The kids stood quietly by the door, sensing the tension in the room but unsure of how to react.

Joe didn’t let go. He held her tightly, almost as if he feared she might slip through his fingers again. His hands, shaking slightly, brushed against the back of her neck, pulling her even closer. He buried his face deeper into her hair, inhaling the scent of her, as though trying to ground himself in the reality of the moment.

Keyshia felt the warmth of his embrace, the weight of his body pressed against hers, and for a split second, she almost allowed herself to soften, to believe that he truly understood the depth of his actions. But then, the reality of everything that had happened between them—the lies, the betrayal, the hurt—came crashing back into her mind.

"Joe, what is all this?" she asked quietly, her voice soft but heavy with uncertainty.

He pulled back just enough to look her in the eyes, his hands still resting gently on her shoulders. His eyes were wide with emotion, raw and vulnerable. "I know I’ve messed up. I know I’ve hurt you. And I know words won’t fix this. But I’m trying, Keyshia. I’m trying to show you how sorry I am. I don’t want to lose you. I don’t want to lose my family."

Keyshia swallowed, the lump in her throat growing as she took in the scene around her—the roses, the vases, the soft glow of the light from the lamps, creating an almost dreamlike atmosphere. This was his apology, a lavish one at that. She could see that he had put in a lot of thought, a lot of effort. But in the back of her mind, a part of her knew that these gestures, no matter how beautiful, could never erase the hurt she had felt.

"Joe..." she began, but her words faltered as she struggled to make sense of it all. She pulled away slightly, feeling the weight of the moment settle in. "I don’t know what you want me to say. I don’t know what you expect from me."

Joe’s face dropped slightly, his brows furrowing in confusion. "I just want you to know I’m sorry, Keyshia. I know I can’t take back what I’ve done, but I want to do better. I want to show you that I can be the man you need, the man you deserve. Please, just give me a chance to prove it."

Keyshia closed her eyes for a brief moment, taking a deep breath. She could feel the sincerity in his words, the genuine regret in his voice. But that didn’t change the fact that he had hurt her. That didn’t change the feeling of betrayal that had settled deep within her heart.

"I don’t know, Joe," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I want to believe you. I really do. But how can I, after everything? After what you did?"

Joe’s eyes filled with desperation. "I messed up. I know I did. But I swear, Keyshia, I will never do anything to hurt you again. Please, don’t walk away from me. Not like this."

Keyshia stood there, caught between the desire to stay and the fear of what staying might mean. She wanted to believe him. She wanted to believe that this apology, these flowers, the empty promises of change could somehow bring them back to the way they were before everything had gone wrong. But deep down, she knew that it would take more than a grand gesture to heal the wounds he had inflicted on her heart.

She glanced over at the kids, who were quietly watching the exchange with wide eyes. They had been through enough turmoil in the past few months. She couldn’t make a decision that would only confuse them more. But at the same time, she couldn’t pretend that everything was okay just because Joe had surrounded her with roses.

The silence stretched between them, thick and heavy. Joe stood there, his eyes searching hers, hoping for some sign that she would forgive him, that she would stay. But Keyshia wasn’t ready to make that decision yet. Not now, not like this.

"I need time, Joe," she said, her voice firm but gentle. "I can’t just forget everything and pretend like it’s all okay. You hurt me. And you hurt the kids. It’s going to take more than roses to fix that."

Joe’s face softened with understanding, though the disappointment was clear. "I get it. I just... I’m so sorry. Please know that I’ll do whatever it takes to make things right. Just… don’t give up on me. Don’t give up on us."

Keyshia nodded slowly, her heart torn between what was and what could be. "I’m not giving up on you, Joe. But I need you to show me, not just tell me. I need to see the change. I need to feel like I can trust you again."

Joe’s face lit up with hope, his shoulders relaxing a fraction. He stepped forward, pulling her into another embrace, this time gentler than before, but still full of the same desperate need. "I’ll prove it to you. I swear I will. I’ll do whatever it takes."

Keyshia hesitated for a moment, then returned his embrace, her arms wrapping around him, though with a certain reserve. She didn’t know what the future held for them. But for the first time in a long while, she felt a flicker of hope. Maybe they could find their way back. But it wouldn’t be easy. It couldn’t be.

For now, they would take it one step at a time.