#but i got meds and an inhaler and we all made it home in one piece

[padmerrie]

soooooo i was sick for 2 weeks

[websterss]

JUST TRYING TO BE BRAVE — ERIC (AQPDO)

REQUEST: A request for Eric from A Quiet Place: Day One The reader only knows of one way to calm him whilst he's having a panic attack during the madness, and they gently let him rest against their chest and listen to their heartbeat until he calms down <3

WARNING(S): SLIGHT SPOILERS, fluff, angst, panic attacks

WORD COUNT: 1,286

PAIRING: Eric x fem!Reader

A/N: I hope you enjoy it! Feedback is always welcomed! I didn’t know where you wanted the reader to calm him down so you get a two-for-one scenario fic lmfao <33

MASTERLIST

You don’t know what you would’ve done if you hadn’t run into Sam like you and Eric had. You two probably would have continued to wander the discarded vacant streets of New York, had you decided not to follow the cat.

Sam had been insistent on you both leaving her be with her cat, but at last she got used to your presence. Now as you shelter in her abandoned home, watching and hearing the rain fall from the windows, you can’t help but feel relieved those creatures can’t hear your beloved's panicked inhales and exhales.

“Eric, it’s okay! You’re alright. We’re okay!” He only shakes his head at your reassured comments. Your consolation this time wasn’t doing the trick to calm him down, if you hadn’t run out you would have given him his prescribed anxiety meds. “It’s okay. They can’t hear us up here right now. You’re okay. We’ve made it this far haven’t we?” You breathe out a laugh as you cup his face. He barely musters a nod before his eyes close again, you could imagine the tornado spinning around in his chest. Wreaking havoc on his sanity and any small chance of serenity. You could imagine it all. You could see the panic, the fear in his eyes, making his chest rise and fall rapidly as he struggled to maintain his breath. “Do you want to try it again, what your doctor recommended us to do? Your head pressed on my chest. Match your breathing to the rhythm of each beat of my heart…” You trailed off letting him take the lead.

At your suggestion, he nods slowly, his eyes closing as he reaches out for your hands again. "O-Okay..." Eric tried to take deep breaths, but they came out as panicked stutters.

You sat back against the sofa, allowing space for him to rest against your chest. You began to steady your rhythmic pace, knowing it only worked if you were just as calm and relaxed. You press a gentle kiss against his curls. As his breathing slows to a soft inhale and exhale. He tuned out everything around him. Hearing every thump, feeling every minor skip in your chest. He felt your steadiness, felt the caresses in his hair. The strong warm hold of your other arm as you held him close. He could feel you, hear every intake of air. You were present for him, and he was welcoming the stillness the moment allowed for you both to have once again. He guessed as much though just how the rest of your lives would dissolve into, a world of quiet.

It seemed heavenly at first, but otherworldly frightening, knowing he might just have to savor the small moments where he’d get to hear your voice again. Just as he was doing now.

Once you registered his slackened jaw and relaxed shoulders, you assumed as much that he had fallen asleep. You didn’t dare move. Your fingers continued to rake through his hair as he had succumbed to sleep. You couldn't help but feel relieved that he had calmed down and been able to find some rest. The rain continued to patter against the windows, its soothing sound acting as a natural lullaby to ease your nerves. As you held him close, you found yourself unable to tear your gaze away from his peaceful face.

“What started the attacks?” Sam watches you both from the windows.

“Moving far from home. His parents were so proud of him for following through with law school, but he was devastated to leave them. I completely out of mind in love with him, made the biggest jump of my life following him to the U.S.”

“Do you ever regret it?”

You peer up at Sam with glistened eyes. “N-No. I wouldn’t be sane going through this apocalypse without him. Whatever this whole mess is!” You exclaimed quietly. You look down at him, brushing back his curls. “I’d regret it more if I hadn’t followed him here. I can’t imagine what he would’ve done all alone, if he’d survived it this far. I think he would. I wonder if he’d have met you just the same if I wasn’t here. I’d have been thankful just the same though, Sam. For letting him stick with you.” You choke back a sob, your smile widening at the corners. Sam only nods, turning her head away from your vulnerable confession. You didn’t take it to the heart. Who knew what pain she was going through herself.

As you spoke to Sam, your voice quivered with a mix of love and vulnerability. You could feel the weight of your words hanging in the air, and for a moment, it was as if the world outside faded away, leaving only the three of you to navigate this strange new reality. You couldn’t help but wonder how Eric would have fared if you hadn't been by his side, a thought that sent a shiver down your spine. With bated breaths, you turned your focus back to him, sleeping peacefully in your arms.

-

“Eric baby please!” You swish around in the water, eyes glistening as you look up at the creature crawling out from the hole on the roof. Sam had taken a more firmer approach. Holding her hand over his mouth. You had caught him about to squeak, before Sam shushed him. His need to express his panic in screams was hard to muffle.

You moved as quietly as you could in the water. Making your way to take over Sam’s place. Eric only shook his head at you. You had to nod, to remind him to stay calm.

“Eric, we need to slow your heart.”

“N-No, no, no.” He muttered. “I can’t…”

“You can, you can. Baby, look at me.” You whispered harshly, gripping his face like Sam had done. In a more serene and calm scenario, your softer touch would have been your go-to, but not when that thing was getting closer. “I’m scared right now, I’m scared too, but we need to get you back on track. I need you to focus and match your breathing to mine, right now!” Your eyes plead with him. “Please!”

His eyes were wide with fear, pupils dilated and breaths shallow. The panic was clearly taking over him as water dipped into his mouth, making it difficult for him to focus on anything other than the impending danger. Despite his obvious distress, he nodded slightly, trying his best to calm himself down. As you held his face, he tried to match his breathing to yours, each breath a struggle for control over the mounting fear. He closed his eyes, forcing himself to stay grounded in the presence of your touch.

"I got you. D-Deep breaths…" You barely whisper to him, your frequency morphing into mouthed words.

He took a shaky breath, shuddering as he attempted to follow your instructions. Your steady presence grounded him to the moment.

You didn't hesitate to place his head on your chest. You placed your hand on the back of his head, rubbing his wet hair back and forth in hopes of reassuring him. You tread lightly backwards, keeping your sights on the beast behind you three.

Eric pressed his ear against your chest, the sound of your steady heartbeat providing a calming rhythm to focus on. His breaths were still shaky, but with your hand on the back of his head, soothing in soft caresses, he slowly began to calm down. He closed his eyes and let himself be guided through the water, trusting your instincts to lead the way. Trusting both Sam and you to get him far away from the damned creature.

[drchucktingle]

POUNDED BY DR. GLOBUS

wanted to post today about recent health journey of chuck. ALL STARTED at texas show when i began to feel tightness in throat. i have learned this is called GLOBUS which is a tingler character name if ive ever heard one. got through appearance and had blast but felt terrible

plane journey home was even worse. first thought i strained my voice, then tested for covid (negative) and then figured it was just some kind of virus. had running nose and hoarse and extreme pain behind face and MOST of all this golf ball throat

figured i would get better as viruses tend to go but I DID NOT. after a few weeks went to way of urgent care and they took one look and said you have EXTREME FORM OF ACID REFLUX called laryngopharyngeal reflux (also great tingler character name)

basically this is when your stomach acid comes all the way back up into your throat and erodes it. they immediately put me on medications name of pepcid plus tums plus gaviscon and on and on. was inhaling a dang pharmacy every morning

problem is, NO CHANGE. in fact it started getting worse. in addition to previous symptoms i now couldnt keep any food down. upset stomach all the time. could barely sleep. plus it is scary to have a sickness that gets WORSE over time like this

more doctor talks. i up doses of medication to combat sickness but does not seem to work. one night wake up and think 'dang i need to go to er my stomach is going to just melt or something' (keep in mind because i cant keep food down i am always hungry too).

i go to hospital and they say 'WHOA we need to intervene right now we are doing some tests and putting you on SERIOUS LIFE CHANGING MEDICINE. but here is catch to do the tests we need you to stop all your medication for 48 hours and it will be HECK but you gotta do it bud'

so i stop all medication in preparation for new SICK LIFE and suddenly… i start feeling better. not just a little but after weeks of this awful way i wake up in ONE DAY and feel fully cured. now heres twist: at the same time this was happening I started taking allergy medicine

you may already know where i am going with so i will just hit you with it. my INITIAL SICKNESS was just extreme seasonal allergies that required nothing more than claritin and flonase. however i was misdiagnosed with ACID REFLUX and medication was making my stomach a wasteland

the second i stopped taking acid reflux meds and started on allergy trot i was better almost instantly. today i feel HECKIN GREAT. (SIDE NOTE: after 4 years of chronic pain i am so thankful to not have some OTHER long term health trot to deal with. DANG)

so what is lesson here? first of all please do not think this is in ANY WAY anti-doctor rant or anti-medicine. my doctors were trying their best and made a mistake, they are just people. ALSO while acid reflux medicine made me sick, allergy meds made me better. i am SO fortunate

but what is REALLY fortunate is that chuck is covered under SWEET BARBARAS HEALTH CARE (she gets very good coverage under the frozen lake). most artist buckaroos, even WILDLY successful ones, do not have health care which is huge issue that should be talked on more.

point is EVERYONE should have healthcare. this whole adventure was bad, but it also only cost me 50 dollars. hundreds of thousands of other buckaroos would have to deal with this PLUS it would completely upend their life to cover medical expenses because of a SIMPLE MISTAKE

so that is my story, usually there is more of a lesson to these rants but this one is really just ‘dang what a trip.’ so grateful for my health and my way and the fact i can get simple allergy medicine over the counter. most of all THANKFUL FOR MY BODY it is such a treat to exist

thank you for reading and remember to advocate for yourself and your feelings both BODY and MIND at the doctor. listen to your trot and do not forget that LOVING YOURSELF AND THE SYSTEMS OF YOUR BODY proves love just as much as loving others. trot on buckaroos

[prettyyoungandbored]

Honey Do List - Dr. James Wilson

Pairing: Dr. James Wilson x Fem!OC

Summary: Wilson learns what a “honey do list” is and worries about why Odette hasn’t given him one.

Author’s Note: This was a minor blurb I had saved for a bit.

NOT MY GIF

“Wilson, weigh in on something for us.”

Wilson lowered the newspaper in his hands. While he wished he’d stayed in his office rather than go to the lounge, he was intrigued. “Yeah?”

“What’s on your wife’s honey-do list for you?” Dr. Bennett asked.

Wilson furrowed his eyebrows and leaned up in the chair. “A what?”

“A honey-do list,” Dr. Prentiss said. “You know, that list of chores and repairs and shit she wants you to do around the house?”

Wilson thought for a moment. The last thing Odette asked him for was to pick up more creamer and that was this morning. Did that count?

He shook his head. “I don’t think she has one for me.”

Dr. Prentiss’ eyes widened. “Are you serious?”

“You’re the luckiest son of a bitch I know,” Dr. Bennett chuckled.

Wilson smiled, yet lucky wasn’t on the list of things he was currently feeling.

===================================

“Should I be worried that Odette hasn’t come up with a list?”

Cuddy blinked. “Is this a serious question you’re asking me?”

Wilson paced her office, scratching the back of his neck. “I keep racking my brain and I can’t think of a time she’s asked me to do something around the house.” He stopped, his face softening. “Is she mad at me?”

“No, she’s not mad at you. Just ask her when you get home.”

“Does she not think I can handle doing stuff around the house?”

Cuddy made a face. “You never struck me as the handyman type.”

“I’m great at cleaning. I know how to deep clean like a professional.”

“That’s not really…you know what, call and ask her.”

He stopped pacing. “I’ll be right back.”

====================================

The second the elevator doors opened to her floor, Wilson hurried to the front desk, flustering Becca, the young receptionist.

“Dr. Wilson! What a-.”

“Is Odette with a client?”

“No-.”

Wilson ran into the hallway and opened Odette’s office door. His wife yelped at his sudden appearance.

“Jesus Chr- Wilson!” she scolded.

“I need to talk to you.”

Odette’s face softened as she took in the fear in her husband’s eyes. “Honey, what’s wrong? Did something happen at work?”

He started pacing her office. “No…well yes…I mean, technically yes-.”

She took his hands in hers, stopping him from moving. “Deep breaths.”

Wilson inhaled and exhaled, the bergamot scent of her office delighting his sense. He watched her hands move to his face, caressing his cheeks lovingly.

“Hi,” she whispered.

He couldn’t help but smile. Only she could ever center him in his world of chaos. “Hi, honey.”

“What happened at work that’s got you upset?”

The reminder made him pout. Just when he considered running out, he realized he’d made the trip and he might as well not waste any more of his - possibly her - time.

“Do you have a honey do list?”

She tilted her head. “A honey do list?”

“Yeah it’s a list of-.”

“I know what it is.” She gave him a small, understand smile. “What do you mean do I have one?”

“Do you have a list of chores or things you need me to do around the place?”

She shook her head, baffling Wilson. “There’s nothing you need me to do around the condo?” he asked. “Nothing at all?”

“We have our chores that we take care of and we make sure Sarah’s set with her meds, food, and litter,” she responded with a shrug. “What else is there?”

“Clearly not much else if you don’t have a list for me.”

She pulled her lips back. “Why does it bug you that I don’t have a honey do list for you?”

“I just want you to feel like you can depend on me.” He took her hands off his face and held them in his. He could feel her wedding and engagement ring which made the next words to come out of his mouth taste of vinegar. “I wasn’t that kind of husband in my last two marriages. I don’t want to repeat that with you.”

Just as he opened his mouth to apologize, a reassuring smile formed on Odette’s lips. She pulled her hands back and threw her arms around his neck.

“I don’t need you to do anything except love me and Sarah and take good care of yourself,” she said. “That’s it. That’s the honey do list. Ok?”

“Ok,” he agreed, leaning in to kiss her.

His lips touched hers and suddenly, his nerves and fears washed away. He forgot about this list, about his previous failures, and savored in the softness of her lips.

[babygirl-riley]

My Future

“Can’t you hear me…I’m not coming home.”

The solo mission that turned both yours and Simon’s life around.

Warnings: angst, fluff, swearing, blood, violence

simon x reader guide

simon x reader fluff/angst list

The heartbeat. Thumping. At first it was fast then slowly it became more like a white noise. You leaned against the tree as you watched the snow slowly. The white was beautiful as it surrounded the trees, animals eventually came around after the shooting ended. It was like a painting. Instead you ruined it.

The white around you was more crimson red. Formed around the area you were seated at. You were surrounded, it was suppose to be a scouting mission. Before you warned Laswell about the Russians being stationed at the base that they were led too. Gun shots rang out.

“Shit Bravo 0-9 I’ve been compromised.” You cursed as you dodged as much bullets as you could.

You felt the hit, felt the bullet getting lodged into your arm. It made you fall from the force from it. As you got up your leg went. You panted as you turned shooting your gun hitting a couple of men, they fell cursing the land red. “Bravo 0-9 how copy?” Laswell asked sorry behind her voice.

You grumbled as you got up, trying to get further away from the site. “Copy.” You whispered hissing at the pain.

“What’s your status?”

You inhaled deeply before feeling the same pain from the shoulder and leg. Instead hitting square in the middle of your back. “Fuck!” You yelled smacking into the ground.

You felt nauseated once your face felt the cold sinking into your cheek. Fuck. Fuck. You heard the footsteps crunching closer. You heard the Russian language blaring through their radios. You waited until they came closer having your pistol out, shooting both.

You laid against the tree trying to get yourself to get up. You had to find shelter sooner rather than later. You had to stop the bleeding, needed to get warm. It was getting dark as well, you could get eaten or worse found.

You hissed as you looked over at your radio. Fuck. Busted. You inhaled deeply finally getting up, you held your side feeling the warmth seeping in your hand. It was freezing, you were getting more and more tired. What if no one finds you? You had to leave clues for the team. If they come to you.

You found your med kit and made a quick bandages for all the areas. You hoped that this would hold until helped arrived. At least you would hope they would. You looked around the bodies licking up ammo and knives then headed in your way.

You eventually attempted to carve 141 on trees. Hoping to god they would find it. Find you. You weren’t ready to die. You thought you would have doing this job. Now you couldn’t. Not since you and Simon. Not since you found your future. Your happiness.

“Ya shouldn’ go alone.” Simon mumbled watching you pack a small bag.

“It’s only a couple of days Si, it won’t be bad.” You answered stuffing more clothing in your small bag. “Plus it’s just observing a couple of fumbling idiots far away. Nothing will happen.”

Simon didn’t like the answer you knew that, just how silent he went you knew. He sighed. “You never know if they know you will be there.”

You looked over at him, he want looking at you, arms folded, staring at the blank wall. “No I don’t, we just can’t think like that Si,” He shuffled his face back to you, you knew that look like the back of your hand. He gave it to rookies that knew the answer to a question when they didn’t answer it correctly. You chuckled sighed. “Simon worst case alright? If they know, I will fight like a bat out of hell. You know I don’t go down easy.”

He hummed and walked over to you lifting his mask up to his nose, ghosting over your lips. “If I have to come and save ya, I will beat you myself.”

You smiled and rolled your eyes before giving him a peck. “Yes sir.”

Don’t go down easy alright. You scoffed out loud from that memory. You couldn’t believe that you said that, you jinxed it. Your blood not staying inside you, not following that one order. You were going to die here. Alone.

You tumbled, you sighed and grunted as you hit the snow. It was cold but felt so nice from the heat coming off of you. You laid there for a moment, before scooting yourself up against a tree. You’re going to die right here. Hearing your heartbeat thump too hard to hear anything else. “I don’t want to die yet.” You whispered feeling tears prick your eyes.

You looked up to watch small specks of white falling and hitting the ground around you. It was beautiful, the green peaking through the white. It was like being in a painting. You had to stay focus if you couldn’t move at least stay wake. You inhaled deeply feeling your lip quiver.

“Maybe just a little shut eye,” Yoh felt your eyes growing heavy. You placed your hand on one of the bandages, crimson seeping through. “Damn it.”

That’s when it hit you, the crimson around you was forming bigger and seeping through the white. Like a plague. You inhaled deeply. Fuck. “Just a small shut eye.” You mumbled letting the darkness take over.

You thought you died until you felt a small push cause you to snap awake. You groaned, eyes not wanting to open. “Cap I found her!” The Scottish accent boomed in your ears.

“So-Soap?” You croaked finally opening your eyes, the shine of a light made you snap your eyes shut.

“Fucking hell yer alive!” Soap said cheering laughing as well. “Bravo team she is breathing barely! Lots of blood loss. We gotta get her out of her pronto.”

You looked over at Soap, pleading not to move. You were stiff. Cold. Yet you felt nothing. Not until a warmth soaked through you. Looking down you saw he placed small packs of heating pads on you. Soap looked up as he also was finding the wounds and wrapping them again once blood oozed out.

“Y/n,” You smiled, that voice. That deep beautiful voice. “Hey. Hey look at up love.”

You slowly turned your head the other way noticing Simon placing his gun down looking over at Soap. Soap frowned and shook his head. “Simon.” You whispered.

He was frozen in spot. Soap basically told him you might not make it. He scanned your body most likely has frostbite. Blood was stained everywhere. Your skin paler than normal. Cracked lips. Glossy eyes.

“No talking right now,” He answered starting to pull things out of his kit. “We gotta get ya safe yeah?”

“‘M serious love,” He followed you as you went into the bathroom. “I will beat your arse.”

You chuckled. “Simon I have done this time and time again. It’s like another day on the beach.”

Simon didn’t have a good feeling about this one. Something was off. The intel didn’t look right. Not at least to him. It could be cause yes you were going alone. Yes he didn’t want you hurt. Price warned him before talking to you about the mission. He wanted to go with you but couldn’t. You were the best for this mission.

“I will be home.” You said kissing his cheek. “Then we can go drink whiskey in the city.”

You coughed blood spurting on your lips. “That’s not good.” You whispered leaning your head back.

“No look at me Sargent,” Simon ordered having your eyes flutter to him. God please if there is one have her make it. “Remember we talked about that dog.”

You smirked. “Si,” You coughed again swallowing deeply. “Don’t coy.”

Soap snapped his eyes at his lieutenant. He even knew that Ghost was distracting you from the reality that was setting in. Simon couldn’t think of it. No denying it until you took that final breath. You’ll be fine. He couldn’t loose you. Not today. Not tomorrow. Not ever.

Simon went on about the dog, you mentioned on getting a puppy since both of you agreed on no kids. A puppy would be a start. Being together would be a start. The future would be the start. You knew your future was ending here. You could feel yourself fading. You were in the snow too long. Blood loss. You had no future. He did though. So you let him ramble as you gripped into his sleeve while he worked.

Simon ignored the stare of you and Soap. Deep down he knew. Right now it’s the dog and blood he has to handle. His mind racing on what the future will hold for both of you. It was always something to talk about between the two of you.

The future was always talked about what to do about it and go about it. Never did he think that it would be you bleeding out in the snow. In front of him. Watching his future becoming more dark each small breath you took. Until your hand released his jacket. That his future took a different route than yours.

[corpsebasil]

Spidey -> Ethan Landry Parte Uno

In which the web slinging superhero is closer than you think.

(Sorry I just LOVE this idea I can’t)

You groaned as you entered your apartment, dropping your cheer bag on the counter as you moved into the kitchen. It’d a long day at school—longer than normal—and you were exhausted. So you kicked off your cheer shoes and pulled your headache-inducing ponytail free, running your hands through your hair to massage your scalp.

Tara texted, making sure you got home, and you replied quickly.

Tare Bear 💜

Tara: hey girl, make it?

Y/N: yeah. about to eat another boring salad.

Tara: couch was on our ass today, what the hell? apparently she said we all need to lose five pounds before the game in two weeks

Y/N: I’m already swamped with homework wtf

Y/N: gym in the morning?

Tara: yeah, I’ll pick you up at five

You turned off your phone and grumbled to yourself, making your way towards your room. The siren song of ranch was loud but, if coach was serious, you’d do the boring alternative of a little bit of olive oil and lemon juice. As you made it into your room you yelped as a fist hit the window, knocking aggressively.

“What the hell…” you mumbled, opening up your window to glare at Spider-Man. “I was just about to drown my sorrows with a gallon of water. What do you want?”

“I sprained my wrist.” The spandex-wearing hero explained, already sneaking into your bedroom as you gave him space. “Help me out, doc?”

“Cant you go to a real doctor?” You asked, rolling your eyes as you moved to your dresser where you kept your medical supplies. As a third year med student, and a good keeper of secrets, you’d been tending to Spider-Man’s various injuries since freshmen year.

“But you’re so much nicer. And no, I cant.”

“What about Stark?” You asked, fishing out a bottle of Advil. “Doesn’t he have some sort of fancy doctor to help out Avengers?” You wiggled your eyebrows, glancing over as Spider-Man plopped onto your bed.

“Not an Avenger.” He mumbled, rolling his wrist around. You couldn’t see his face—had never seen it—but you were sure he was wincing. “Hey, nice uniform. Had fun with your pompons?”

“Yeah I know you like my uniform.” You scoffed, moving over. It was true, your short skirt and tight top did wonders for your figure. “Wish coach liked it. She’s saying we all need to lose five pounds before the game.”

“But you—I mean, you look great you—I mean your body is..” he trailed off, embarrassed, and your smile turned feline. “I just mean you look good. And stuff.”

“How sweet.” You laughed lightly, passing him the Advil. “I’ll get you some ice. You can take the meds while Im in the kitchen.”

You left the room, moving to grab your ice pack as you worked. It was strange, honestly. He’d been seeing you for a while now, your interactions friendly if not a bit flirtatious, but you still didn’t know anything about him. And weirdly enough, you wanted to. It wasn’t that you liked him or anything, but…

You went back to the bedroom, covering your eyes comically as you pretended to feel around.

“Covered up, Spidey?” You asked, fighting back a laugh when his chuckle filled the space between you.

“Yeah. Thanks.”

You uncovered your eyes and moved forward, offering the ice-pack. When he took it, his covered fingers met your own, the smooth fabric of the suit cool against your skin. You fought a suddenly sharp inhale and backed up, gesturing to the window.

“Well, um. Goodnight.” You said, smiling a tad bit awkwardly. “Gotta go make myself a pile of lettuce. See you around.”

“Wait—” he stood up suddenly and you blinked. “I mean—want to…do something? Like watch a movie or—?”

“Spidey.” You laughed, raising an eyebrow. “Superhero,” you started, pointing to him. “civilian.” You added, pointing to yourself. “Isn’t that like..against protocol?”

“No one’s gonna know.” He protested, moving a step forward. “Come on, aren’t we friends, Y/N?”

You stared, looking at his towering, muscular form. And you suddenly felt a twinge of disappointment. Or was it longing?

“I’m just your free medic.” You said, turning your back to him. “See you later!”

It was quiet for a moment so you glanced over your shoulder.

He was gone.

-

You were stretching when Ethan, Chad’s roommate and your nerdy friend, jogged up to you. He looked slightly sweaty and out of breath, like he’d run all the way from his late night Econ class to meet you at the football field. You raised your brows, wiping the dirt off your skirt as you stood, slinging your bag over your shoulder.

“Hey, E.” You greeted, scanning him up and down with your eyes. He’d agreed to drive you home after practice, claiming it was too dangerous to walk alone. Chad had already taken Tara home, so you were stuck with Ethan. “Run all the way here? Getting your laps in?”

“Yeah. I mean—no. Not all the way.”

“Sure you didn’t.” You laughed, looping your arm through his as you walked off the field, leading him towards the parking lot. “My valiant rescuer. What will I ever do to thank you?”

“Wanna get food?” He asked, raising his brows. “We can study for the test while we wait.”

“Yeah I—” you frowned. “I cant. Sorry. Sticking to salads and protein shakes right now, E.”

“Come on. You’re gorgeous. You’re coach is an idiot.” He told you, not really realizing what he’d said, but your brows knit.

“Did Tara tell you?” You asked, confused, and his cheeks reddened.

“Yeah I mean. Chad was talking about it. Saying Tara was pissed.”

“Rightfully so. We’re skinny enough as it is.” You complained, frowning as you made your way to his car. Then you paused, smiling a bit wickedly. “You think I’m gorgeous?”

Ethan was flustered, but smiled shyly as he opened the passenger door for you.

“Obviously.” He mumbled, brown eyes on yours, and you grinned.

“Awww, E.” You cooed, reaching up to pinch his cheek before you climbed into the car.

Later, clad in an oversized shirt, you sat next to Ethan on the couch, laughing. He was gagging dramatically, his own shake in front of him half-drank before he’d requested a sip of your own. Yours was with water, instead of milk, and was the vegan protein powder you kept in your pantry. He’d allowed you to convince him to drink a chocolate whey, not wanting to order the burger he’d wanted and have you suffer alone.

“God this is awful.” He griped, and you laughed loudly at his twisted up expression. “God how do you drink this?”

“Anything for cheer.” You giggled, and he rolled his eyes.

“Yeah, you and your pompoms.” He mumbled, and you poked him in the side.

“You like my pompoms.”

“You know I do.” He shot back, turning to look at you, and your heart stuttered. Then he glanced away, looking a bit nervous, before looking back. “I like you, Y/N.” He admitted, and you raised a brow, even as you blushed.

“I should hope so. We’re friends, after all.”

“I mean more.” He added, looking away awkwardly at your silence. “It’s fine if you don’t.”

But his breathing hitched a fraction when you took his face in your hand and made him look at you, scanning those gorgeous eyes of his for any hint of reluctance. When there was none you leaned forward, your own heart rate increasing as you pressed your mouth softly against his.

Okay, it was hardly a kiss. Only so much so that you could acknowledge the graze of his mouth against your own—could feel the curve and slope of his lips. But then he was jumping, yanking away, as one of the loudest ringtones you’d ever heard went off.

Even you startled, and you began to laugh before seeing the panicked look on his face.

“E? You okay—?”

“I gotta go. I’m sorry!” He said, expression hardening as he bolted to his feet and practically tore out of your apartment.

So you sat there feeling slightly dumb, your lips still tingling from the kiss.

-

Later, hours later, you were bored, watching Tombraider for the billionth time on your laptop.

Tare Bear 💜

Y/N: I kissed Ethan

Y/N: well, kind of

Tara: WHAT

Y/N: we were having fun and then I kissed him and he just left ??? Like did I do something wrong ??

Tara: you’re the hottest girl in school . Maybe he just panicked ??

You began typing again but froze when you heard the familiar knocks at your window, and you sighed loudly. You moved over and opened it up, giving Spider-Man a weighted stare.

“Not now, Web Boy. I’m going through a crisis.”

“I got cut!” He protested, grabbing the window with insane strength to stop you from pushing it down. “Come on, Y/N.”

You stared at those eyes, those white eyes of the mask, and rolled your own.

“Fine. Fine. I’m getting a glass of wine, want anything?”

“No thanks.” The hero said brightly, crawling inside when you moved away. You got your glass of wine before coming back and scoffing, staring at the cut he was so worried about.

“That is a paper-cut, Spidey. A paper cut.”

“What if it’s infected?” He asked, pouting, and you folded.

“Jesus, you’re going to be the death of me.” You grumbled, taking a large gulp before moving to your dresser to get anti-biotic salve and a bandaid. He’d taken the glove off on his right hand and was flexing his fingers over and over. “Speaking of death, I’m going to kill a boy. Maybe you could turn a blind eye from your hero shit and let me get away with it.”

“What?” He asked, voice cautious as you moved closer. “What…boy?”

“This guy he—“ you paused, sighing dramatically. “I don’t know why I’m telling you this. Give me your hand.”

“Wait, I wanna know.” He protested, holding his hand up high out of reach. The man was tall, for Christ’s sake.

“Seriously? Is this what we do now? Gossip about our love lives?” You smirked, fighting down the desire to tell him. You’d known him for a long time, now. Surely it wouldn’t be the worst thing to happen. “Are we braiding each other’s hair next? Pillow fighting?”

“We can pillow fight but I might take your eye out by accident.” When you opened your mouth to argue he pushed his hand down into your own, and the sudden warmth and smoothness of his skin startled you. “Tell me about this guy. Maybe I can help.”

You stared at him for a moment, your cheeks flushing a bit as you glanced down at the hand in your own. Your thumb grazed his knuckles involuntarily before you blinked, clearing your head and turning his fingers up so you could see them.

“Well..” you started, cleaning his finger off with a wet rag as you spoke. Truly he was such a baby. He used to only come to you for big things and now you were treating paper-cuts? “He’s kind of dorky, but I like that. He treats me like a human being and not just a piece of ass like a lot of frat guys do to cheerleaders.” You continued, wiping on some salve. “But…tonight I..” you swallowed, blinking down at his hand as you opened up a bandaid and smoothed it down. “I think I fucked up.”

“How?” Spider-Man asked, and he sounded slightly out of breath. You looked up at his face.

“I kissed him. Sort of. And then he just ran like—he literally could not get out of here fast enough.”

“Maybe he had to go somewhere?” Spidey offered, and didn’t let your hand go when you moved to set his free. “I don’t know I just think any guy would be stupid to run away from you.”

“Sure you do.”

“I do. Why do you think I keep coming back?”

You stared down at him, at the superhero you’d been tending to for so long, and something in you shifted. You moved towards him, your knees brushing his own where he sat on your bed. Your eyes were soft and filled with…Spider-Man didn’t know….but you looked so pretty and he…

“Is that why you come?” You asked, biting your bottom lip. “Because you…”

You reached out, touching his arm carefully, well aware the physical boundaries between you had never been crossed like this. And when you set your hands on his shoulders, he didn’t protest. If anything he leaned into your touch, both of your breaths catching when you braved going further and climbed onto his lap, settling yourself against him.

The latex was surprisingly smooth and warm against your bare legs, his hands immediately finding your waist to hold you still.

“Y/N.” He breathed, masked face so close to your own. “You know why I come back.” He said, and you could’ve sworn your heart skipped a beat. “I come back for you.”

You smiled softly at that, your hands sliding up his neck. But when your thumbs hooked under his mask and began to cautiously slide it up, he grabbed onto your wrists. You shot him a questioning look.

“Not—not yet.” He told you, and you frowned. You must’ve been losing your damn touch, because—

But then he was moving closer, hands finding your neck as his masked-mouth met yours, the foreign sensation strange but not at all unenjoyable. You could feel the shape of him, feel his warmth pressed against you, and it felt…familiar. Right. You made a soft noise and he gripped your hips tighter, your eyes pulling back to meet his.

“I wanna kiss you for real.” You murmured, running a thumb over his lips through the suit, and he shook his head.

“Not yet. Please. Give me time.”

You nodded, allowing him to slip his arms around your waist as he pulled you into him, your head resting in the crook of his neck as he breathed. You could’ve sworn he mumbled something but you ignored it, too busy allowing the masked hero to press your entire body against his.

Afterwards, what felt like minutes, he ran a hand through your hair and pulled you away.

“I have to go.” He said, sounded regretful. “I’ll see you again soon. I promise.”

“Okay.” You whispered, wishing you could see even a glimpse of his face, but understanding. “Okay. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight.” He repeated as you moved off him, but not before planting one last kiss against your head. He dove out the window and swung off into the night, doing an elaborate flip you knew he thought would impress you.

It did.

HELLLOOOO WHATBDONYOU GUYS THINK?

[the-night-writer1]

Lil boys Big City

When shanyao and Red boy are deaged into small children by yin and jin with none of their future memories. They must navigate Megalopolis to get to at least one of their parents.

How'd Shan get here? The little guy was confused on what was going on and why he was in a massive jacket. Pigsy was gonna be so mad that he was clearly too far away from the shop. He didn't have his inhaler either, he had a phone though! When did he get a phone?

"Are you okay?" A red headed boy asked, his clothes didn't fit either. He was nice, maybe he knew what part of the city they were in.

"Do you know where we are?" Shanyao asked before coughing in his hand. He really needed to get home, he clearly had a cold.

"No but I can probably summon my mama " The boy said as he rubbed Shan's back," we just need soft dirt and then I can summon her ok?"

"Okay, I'm Shanyao but everyone calls me Shanny " Shan said as he coughed into his hand again . Before he could even complain he was being piggybacked by the Red head with a cheerful smile. He wanted to call dadsy but he didn't know the phone password so this Boy's mom was their only option.

"I'm Red boy! Not to be confused with my brother Red Son. Don't worry I'm really strong so you just save your energy " Red boy said cheerfully as he started walking and looking around. The houses in this village were tall, so how would he find a mount of dirt? This kid needed medicine and they surely had some at the fortress!

" we're close to the big park at that stop sign turn right" Shanyao stated as he pointed to the sign up ahead. Got love his navigation skills from collecting cans for money. So he at least knew where the parks were.

"Oh okay! Away we go!" Red boy said as he did as instructed . As he carried Shanny he made reassuring small talk," Don't worry we had tons of medicine at home. We'll help you feel better. "

" I just need my inhaler and an anti inflammatory" Shan said softly as he coughed into his hand again. Thus kid was nice but weird. Shan was a bit weird himself so he didn't mind. It took a little while to get to park. Where Red boy made sure to find a nice shady spot to put his sick friend before finding a stick.

"Just give me five minutes then I'll summon mama. Her symbol takes a little while " Red boy said as he went to draw the symbol in the dirt. What he wouldn't give to be able to create it with bite.

"Okay" shanyao said giving him a thumbs up before coughing a bit harder. He was tired. He really had a cold huh? Pigsy be so mad he left the shop.

To say Red boy's mom looked confused was an understatement when she showed up. Red boy grabbed her hand and didn't seem to notice her confusion, " Mama my new friend needs medicine! His name is shanyao and he's wheezing mama!"

"Red boy?" Iron fan asked as she was being dragged by her suddenly child son to a suddenly child version of Macaque's student, " shanyao?"

"Hello" Shanyao said with a tired wave. Iron fan quickly picked him up, it be better to get them both to Red son for analysis. Lil Shanyao was so light and it was concerning, " can we call my daddy he'll be concerned I'm not home "

"Of course dear" Iron fan said softly as she rubbed the small child's back gently. He clearly wasn't feeling well and she couldn't help but baby him ," what about we get you both in better fitting clothes "

-----

"And Red son said the effects will last a few weeks " Iron fan said over the phone as Shanyao was asleep on DBK. Red boy was playing with blocks.

"My boy's going to be a child for a few weeks?" Pigsy said concerned as he went to grab a notebook, " I still got the recipes I made fer him when he was lil. He had a picky palette thanks to all the meds. Tomato soup is always a good call I'll text ya the recipe he likes and how to make the grilled cheese with it.We'll come get him around 8 after the dinner rush so tang can safety check his room."

"If he needs to stay the night that's fine Pigsy. We have doctors here if he needs them and he's fallen asleep on my dear husband's chest" Iron fan said reassuringly as she watched Dbk gently rub the Boy's back with his finger. One of the few areas of her husband that was still fluffy. It seemed to be the perfect place for a lil child to sleep.

"Oh ya got send pictures " Pigsy said with a chuckle, " I got add that to the album"

" oh of course " Iron fan said with a giggle.

[elizabethplaid]

what a pill - daily notes, nov 26, 2024

Short list, then blather under the cut:

Made cat calendar, yay

Lindt truffles

Rx refill trouble, but not an emergency yet

upcoming trauma-versary

TL;DR on mental health: Refilling prescriptions is a pain. Keeping an eye on things due to meds and trauma-versary. Trying to be patient with myself. I have support in place and will have meals prepped.

--- Dad approved the cat calendar, saying it's the "best one yet". I disagree, as some of the kitten pics were very good, as was last year's. Idk if I've posted all the past ones before, so I'll double-check my tags, reblog what I have, then post what I forgot.

--- Dad keeps buying huge quantities of Lindt's Lindor truffles each year. Like, he just bought 2 sets of pick-300, because they were on sale. Seems like we each got 250, then set aside the rest for gifts. I gave up another 50, because I felt like being generous.

So far, I've tried the maple and cheesecake flavors and enjoyed both. We got snickerdoodle and some odd white-choc again, and I picked out some other new-to-me flavors. I put my stash-box on top of the fridge, so it's more work for me to reach them. Dad's like, "Don't inhale them; they've gotta last the whole season." It took me a long time to eat last year's stash, and I gave a bunch to my library friends, even after their initial gifts.

--- In prescription news, I'm short on pills. I have been on the same meds for like 15+ years now, and I only last fucked with the dosage back in 2017. I just... Please let me keep a bunch at home, so I'm not running out. I left a message with my doc over the weekend, and I don't think they've called in the Rx yet. And I should've called it in a week earlier, but I misread my bottle, thinking I had another refill.

It's one of the meds that I take 2 dosages for, so I'm somewhat able to supplement. But like, this is stupid. And my insurance isn't letting me get 3-months per refill anymore. (They even put up a fuss for auto-refills on one med? But that seems to be reversed now.)

--Because I had a day where I missed one med (it's since been refilled) and I'm having issues with this other one, I'm keeping an eye on my mood and mental health. It's a trauma-versary this weekend, so I'm already on-edge. The trauma has been a factor in of this year's mental health journey, amid reconnecting mind and body.

The inner-tension I get when I think about it feels more fresh now, rather than feeling resigned or resolved in other recent-years. It's the body sensations, remembering the memory in my nerves. Like, the emotions and betrayal seem fairly resolved. I'm having to approach this in a way that's unfamiliar to me, just as scary as all the other body-sensation stuff from earlier this year.

Phone-friend has already offered support, and we have our usual call this weekend. My dad's thinking of visiting a friend in Boston, who is in the hospital, that day, too. And we'll have Thanksgiving leftovers, so I won't starve by myself, haha.

I can cope well by distracting myself, yes. This year's mild bravery and "ready to face the challenge" attitude is helping, too, making me want to try finding the words for things. My counselor had the best advice last week: You have to take care of yourself first before you can change bigger things. Whatever smalls bits of self-care that are possible will help the bigger things develop more easily. Oof, it's tough to not be so hard on myself, especially after this year's setbacks.

TL;DR on mental health: Refilling prescriptions is a pain. Keeping an eye on things due to meds and trauma-versary. Trying to be patient with myself. I have support in place and will have meals prepped.

[cuddlepilefics]

SKZ Season Greetings - 14

More of the same

Felix had expected their trip to take a while but he didn’t think it would take this much out of him. After a lengthy wait in the ER, the dancer had to endure a whole battery of tests before it was confirmed that the infection his entire group had come down with, had caused bronchitis in his case. He was no stranger to bad chest colds and had contracted bronchitis a couple of times in his youth, so he wasn’t too shocked in hindsight. Changbin on the other hand was worried out of his mind. How was it that Felix was so miserable, while he himself was already recovering without having hit such a low? It made the rapper feel awful to know that he was the one to bring those germs home to his friends, brothers really. Rationally, Changbin knew that both him and Jeongin had picked up this illness at their photoshoot but that didn’t make him feel any less guilty.

After getting a prescription and the instructions to not exert himself and to make sure to drink enough fluids, Felix was given a mask to receive breathing treatment. Since it would take a while, the Aussie requested for Changbin to stay with him, which the rapper was all too eager to do. Wanting so badly to make up to his dongsaeng for exposing him to these germs, Changbin kept rubbing his back or stroking his hair the entire time till his treatment was done. The boy got discharged from the hospital not much later, eager to get home. His heart was still racing in his chest though, a side effect of the drugs he had inhaled. He knew that it would be okay but that didn’t make the sensation any less uncomfortable.

After giving his dongsaeng a piggyback ride to the car, Changbin helped him buckle in and shot their group chat a message, explaining what was going on with their sunshine. They’d stop by a pharmacy on their way back to pick up Felix’ medication and then the boy could finally lay down and get some rest. He got pretty close to drifting off a couple of times during the drive but the increasingly frequent coughing spells always woke him up. Bracing himself against the front seat, Felix buried his face in his scarf and fought back tears. There was a hand on his back and another, pressing a few tissues into his. Felix shakily accepted the tissues and spat into them before wiping his lips. “This is disgusting”, the Aussie choked out with a pained wince. Stroking back his hair, Changbin shushed: “Still better to get that out than have it stuck in your lungs. No wonder it’s so hard to breathe when you’re literally drowning.”

When the car came to a halt, Changbin smiled: “You sit tight and I’ll be right back. Just need to collect your meds.” Felix nodded obediently, too drained to do anything other than sit there and wait for his hyung. As he waited, he pulled out his phone and blearily checked his messages, promising the members that he’d be fine and that Changbin was just grabbing his medicine before they’d be home. His racing heart was finally slowing down a little and he craved one of their cuddle sessions. Just a little longer. He doubted his friends would deny him cuddles if he asked really nicely.

Chan was at the door the moment he heard the lock click and opened his arms for Felix, who tiredly stumbled into the leader’s embrace. “It’s good to have you back”, the oldest hummed as he ran his hand up and down Felix’ back. Minho was only a couple of steps behind them, ready to welcome their dongsaeng once Chan would be ready to let go of him, as well as making sure the leader himself would remain on his feet. Felix swayed a little on his feet, so Minho pulled him away from Chan and whispered: “We set up another humidifier in your room when Changbin texted us earlier, so you should lay down there. Gosh, you look drained.” Giving a pathetic nod, Felix allowed his fellow dancer to walk him to his room, where he promptly collapsed onto the bed. “Is there anything I can get you? Water maybe?”, Minho offered with a frown when the younger broke into another coughing fit. Rubbing his chest, Felix forced out: “Tissues.” The older hurriedly pushed the trashcan closer to the bed before walking off to get tissues.

Changbin was faster though, placing down Felix’ meds along with a fresh tissue box on the Aussie’s nightstand. “I really urgently need cuddles”, the boy rasped, looking up at his hyungs with tears in his eyes. Minho complied in an instant, while Changbin turned and smiled: “As much as I’d love to cuddle you, I think it’s Chan-hyung’s turn now. Don’t want it to be my fault if he starts to sulk because I’ve been hogging you for hours.” That even earned a weak chuckle from Felix, who eager cuddled into Minho as he waited for Chan to join them. “I think Seungminnie misses you though he wouldn’t say so”, the leader whispered, winking at Changbin, “Maybe you wanna go sit with him for a bit.” Changbin was quick to agree, making his way to the vocalist’s bedroom.

Jeongin looked up at him from Seungmin’s bed, the other’s head in his lap. There was a cold compress on Seungmin’s forehead, his hair neatly tucked out of his face after the maknae had fussed for a while. “Hey”, Changbin breathed as he approached the bed, “Can I join you two?” Sleepily blinking up at his hyung, Seungmin rasped: “We’re not doing anything, hyung.” – “Well, how about cuddles? Hyunjin and Jisung are still asleep, our two eldest are fussing over, which makes me wonder how Chan survived these past hours when we were gone and now I’m all alone”, the rapper whined cutely. Though the implication that he was only there because Felix was occupied made Seungmin’s heart ache, he convinced himself that it was just his fever messing with his emotions. Closing his eyes, Seungmin sighed: “He was certainly annoying.”

There was a moment of shocked silence before Jeongin looked at Changbin and giggled: “He actually was, hyung. You should’ve seen how whiny Chan-hyung got when you took Felix and he wasn’t allowed to come.” – “We went to my room because he got on my nerves”, Seungmin frowned, not even bothering to look at the rapper. He did open his eyes though when he felt the mattress dip. Changbin laid down next to him and smiled: “Chan can turn into a completely different person when it comes to Felix, huh?” Gently stroking Seungmin’s chest, the rapper hummed: “How’ve you been since I left earlier?” – “Nothing changed really”, the boy shrugged, his eyes stinging with tears yet his voice didn’t choke up.

Sandwiched between Changbin and Jeongin with his hyung stroking his chest and Jeongin tracing his arm, Seungmin eventually allowed the tears to fall. They silently trailed down his face and he prayed his friends had their eyes closed, so they wouldn’t notice. He realized that this wasn’t the case when Jeongin carefully dabbed a tissue under his eyes, to soak up the tears. “You don’t need to hold them in”, the maknae whispered, softly cupping Seungmin’s fever-flushed cheek, “Just let them out, hm? Bottling up will only make you feel worse and it’s perfectly normal to get emotional when you’re sick.” Changbin didn’t comment on it but took Seungmin’s hand into his free one, while continuing to stroke his chest. He could feel the boy’s chest hitch and gave his hand a light squeeze when the first audible sob tore from his throat.

Jisung awoke with his head on Hyunjin’s chest, the fog in his head having cleared a bit. He sat up and rubbed his face before looking around the empty living room. He stretched, whining softly when his sore muscles protested. Though quiet, the sound woke Hyunjin, who blearily looked up at him before sitting up. “What’s going on? Where’s everyone?”, the dancer choked out before clearing his throat. Jisung only shrugged, looking around the common area. Rubbing his eyes, the rapper sniffled: “I think I’ll go heat up some food. What about you? Want me to get you something too?” – “Just some water please?”, Hyunjin rasped, “My throat’s really dry.” – “Of course, hang in there”, Jisung smiled, heading to the kitchen. He quickly poured the older a glass of cold water, bringing it back to the living room before he took the time to look around the kitchen to see what he felt hungry for.

Hyunjin sighed in relief when the cold water temporarily numbed the pain in his throat. Hearing a frustrated whine from the kitchen, the dancer called out: “You okay, Sungie?” The younger nodded as he padded back to the living room. Harshly scrubbing at his nose, he sniffled: “Jus’ really- really itchy.” – “Don’t do that”, Hyunjin scolded, pulling Jisung’s hands away from his face, “Your skin is raw already.” The rapper whimpered hoarsely before twisting to the side letting out a forceful sneeze. “There we go”, Hyunjin praised quietly when the other sneezed again. Looking up with teary eyes, Jisung accepted the tissue his hyung handed him and tiredly cleaned himself up. Slumping into Hyunjin’s side, he mumbled: “Thanks, hyung.”

[fentrashcat]

Some things that I've changed in my environment that have SEVERELY increased my quality of life in terms of dealing with my limitations-

1. Trashcans in every room. We used to only have a kitchen trash can and a bathroom trashcan, and when you can barely get out of bed/off the couch, it's really nice having a trash can nearby.

2. The only things that go in lower cabinets are either rarely used, or something I certainly won't forget about. No food in lower cabinets EVER. (While cleaning out my kitchen in like 2020 we found things that expired in like 2009 in the bottom cabinets bc they were so underused)

3. Easily perishable or forgettable things (fruit, veggies, meat) are all eye level in the fridge/freezer/pantry. Memorable things (treats, drinks) can go lower. I also removed one of the drawers from my fridge and made that just a water bottle shelf.

4. Easy meals live in the house at all times. Frozen chicken nuggets, ramen, and canned soup are my go-tos. All of them can be microwaved and ready in under 5min.

5. I can't actually remove my cabinet doors for Reasons but if they can be, my upper cabinets stay open.

6. I got a freestanding pantry from like home depot, and that's where most of the food goes. That way it's all together and I can see it all at once.

7. Snack Box. I always forgot about my bread in the bread box because I couldn't see it, so now the bread lives in the fridge (keeps longer) and snacks live in the bread box. They're usually long keeping snacks like nuts and microwave popcorn. I also used neon stickers to label it as snack box so it draws my eye.

8. I hang ALL of my clothes that I can, and they're hung on a rack in the living room. Things in a dresser or closet would vanish for me, and I HATE folding clothes. This came in sections until I found the best solution. When I was younger we just piled clean clothes on a couch and left them. Then I started keeping clean clothes in my hamper, dirty clothes on the floor. Now I keep most clean clothes on hangers, socks and undies just tossed in some fabric storage boxes since those don't have to be seen to be remembered, and hampers are for dirty clothes only.

9. When possible, I have 2 rescue inhalers. One lives in my backpack and the other stays in the house. If I have three then I have one by my bed and one in the living room.

10. Blankets and plush toys are in arms reach of anywhere I sit for a long time. They can help my anxiety and my tics.

11. I have a one month pill organizer that uses dates not week days. I also have alarms that tell me it's time for my meds. I found voice clips of someone saying "stop what you're doing and take your meds or you'll forget" for my night meds, and a song that's like "just go take your medicine right now, I'll wait" for the morning. The pill organizer lives next to my favorite spot in the living room. Fill it up once a month and be set.

12. This is a big one- forget about "normal". So what if it's not normal for my clothes to be in the livingroom? Now that I see them I wear a bigger variety of clothes. Also- don't let people guilt you for doing what works. My refrigerator water dispenser is broken and I hate drinking water out of cups, so I get water bottles. Yes, plastic bottles are bad for the environment, but dehydration is a lot worse for my health (i have a reusable water bottle i use sometimes but i dont always have energy to fill it). If what works for you isn't like the "correct" choice, that's okay.

Take care of yourself, in whatever way works.

The was long but maybe it'll help someone else. I learned a lot of these solutions on my own once I stopped caring about "normal" and just played around to see what works.

More How To Manage ADHD

“I never remember to take out the trash until my trash can is full, at which point the trash bag is really heavy and the stuff at the bottom has been rotting a while, and it’s awful!”

Small brain: “Try to train yourself to take out the trash on certain days at certain times.”

Large brain: “Buy a tiny trash can. Now you HAVE to empty it.”

[bylightofdawn]

WIP Sunday.

So this week's WIP is actually a drabble length because 1) I slept a lot today and 2) Then spent the rest of the evening at my mom's for a few hours for Father's day.

I only got home about an hour or so ago and NGL my brain has been flitting from thing to thing which isn't conducive to writing which....eh it is what it is.

I'm desperately trying to not spoil shit but I'm pretty sure this will spoil people to certain things and certain mystery characters. At this point, I'm going to have to name drop them at some point and anyone with half a brain and some knowledge of Legends is going to know what this all is in regards to.

Featuring Jaster going into full on Papa Bear rage and Plo getting a nasty reminder that oh yeah, he can be scary and maybe he doesn't want to face his lover on the wrong side of the battle field.

Also them utterly failing at hiding their relationship.

It's short and not so sweet.

Uhh the term of endearment which Plo uses "naas te anasthin" is a made up Kel Dor one I invented for this fic which means 'breath of my lungs' which conveys a much more intimate and metaphorical meaning. Literally, the thing that gives you life and the closest something or someone can be. Generally reserved for mates and not something used lightly.

He and Jaster kinda both mutually agreed to upgrade their relationship to might as well be married in their eyes, if not officially. There may be some trading of armor at some point but shhhhh don't tell Plo what that means.

EDIT: Added some more just because Mij gives Jaster some much needed come to Jesus talking to and I just..lowkey adore how he's become the Agony Aunt of the True Mandalorians and Jaster in particular.

When he reached the dining area, he wasn’t surprised to find Plo and an unfamiliar Jedi already there, seated at the informal breakfast table with Mij and Walon over some fresh caf.

“Please tell me someone saved a mug for me.” He asked plaintively instead of greetings, which earned him a chuckle from Plo as he lifted the mug in front of him for Jaster to take.

“I fended off the loth-wolves but managed to save you a cup.” Amusement was unmistakable in the Jedi’s voice when he offered up the cup.

“Thanks, Plo, you’re the actual best.” He had to reign himself in because he wanted to say something far more intimate, and while he doubted the other Jedi spoke Mando’a, better safe than sorry.

His fingers brushed against Plo’s as he accepted the mug from the Kel Dor and he took a moment to inhale the sharp and spicy scent of the caf. This was a specialized spice blend that had been handed down from his father’s side and was generally a big hit with the troops though Outsiders somehow found it too much.

"This is Ril Vrootra, one of our more gifted healers who is also trained to assist with trauma counseling and recovery." Plo Koon introduced the new Jedi.

“My thanks to both of you for coming out here on such short notice.”

“When Knight Koon informed me of the severity of what your young friend has gone through, I thought it best to see them as quickly as I could. Especially after your doctor here shared their medical files.” The Mon Calamari Jedi said, turning those huge and luminous green eyes on Jaster.

It was generally a little hard to read a Mon Calamari’s expression since they lacked the familiar near-human features he was used to reading but their eye ridges definitely did seem more prominent in what he thought might be a frown.

“I also agree with your doctor’s summation that we need to get her on a tapering-off routine for those meds as soon as possible lest she suffers any kidney or liver issues.”

The female Jedi had a surprisingly pleasant and melodious voice and Jaster suspected that was probably a boon in her line of work.

“I appreciate any relief you can offer her. She has been through a lot.”

“I’d garnered as much when I read through Dr. Gilamar’s initial examination notes. The risk of overdosage, signs of prior and ill treated injuries, branding the poor thing like they were a Roba…these break dozens of laws in the Republic and I should imagine the same in the Mandalore system.”

No one had told Jaster about the branding, and his sudden volcanic anger and rage suddenly swelled to a palpable level. It flooded the Force unchecked and unshielded as his anger overrode all of the teachings Plo had tried to instill in him and for the two Jedi it was instantly smothering.

Poor Ril who was especially strong in Force Empathy actually swayed in their seat and made a noise of protest.

“Jaster, look at me. You’re broadcasting into the Force.” Plo, reached out and covered his lover’s hands with his and gently nudged them down to set the mug of caf down before he did something ridiculous like shatter with how tightly he was holding it. “I know that you are angry, naas te anasthin. You have every right to be but take a breath for me, please?”

He found himself the unwelcome recipient of the full force of Jaster’s rage-filled expression and for a second, Plo was worried he was going to lose him to that anger and he was going to storm off and do something truly rash and unthinking like hunt Tor Vizsla to the ends of the planet without plans or backup.

The Kel Dor had never been on the receiving end of that wrath and he counted himself lucky because he didn’t think he ever wanted to be in a situation where he and Jaster were at such a cross-purpose that he glowered a hole through him like that again.

“Udesii, ner kar’ta..” He switched to Mando’a, in hopes him employing the man’s native tongue might get through to Jaster, especially since he used that relatively new term of affection the other man had taken to calling him in private. He’d suspected it held some deeper sentiment than the more casual versions of cyare the man had used over the years.

And judging by the soft inhale of surprise from the other two Mandalorians seated at the table, he thought Jaster might have downplayed it a little bit.

Thankfully, that seemed to cut through the rage and some sanity seemed to return to Jaster’s eyes.

“Mij? Why didn’t you karking tell me?!” He immediately demanded of the doctor.

“Because I knew you would freak out and immediately overreact just like this?”

“They treated her like she was livestock to be branded and marked. Of course I would be upset about that. Anyone with an ounce of honor or a soul would object to such vile crimes being committed against a child.”

“I’m not a child.” A sharp female voice interrupted suddenly and Jaster’s already heightened emotional state went right back into over-drive, albeit it wasn’t the same smothering darkness of rage and anger.

“Maybe not now-”

“I haven’t been a child for years, don’t treat me like one, Mereel. You don’t know or have any right to know what I went through.”

“I can still be upset on your behalf. I know you remember your parents and you know that to treat someone under your care like they did it is demagolka. It’s monstrous and unforgivable and when I find Tor Vizsla and any of his other people who did these crimes I am going to kill them for it. Because they don’t deserve to keep breathing after what they did to you and who knows how many other kids.”

“Jaster, you’re not helping.” Jango finally put in with a concerned look at [Spoiler Character] who looked like she was on the verge of another breakdown.

“I think we all need to take a five-minute break and gather ourselves,” Mij suggested in that tone of voice that indicated he wasn’t suggesting so much as laying down a doctor’s order.”

“I think that might be a spectacular idea.” Vau agreed blandly. “[Spoiler Character], has anyone shown you the rooftop terrace yet?”

“Walon, I don’t think-”

“Nonsense, where is she going to go, Jaster? She doesn’t have a jetpack and I highly doubt she’s going to throw herself dramatically from the rooftop because she is a survivor and would not give Vizsla and his lot the pleasure of having broken her. Besides, think some fresh air might do her some wonders.”

[Spoiler Character] looked pole-axed and stunned by Vau’s uncanny insight and how much truth there had been in his words. She’d promised herself years ago she would not kill herself and give Death Watch the satisfaction of breaking her. It was uncomfortable in a way how quickly this total stranger had read her though.

But the appeal of actually being able to breath fresh air? To experience freedom even for a few scant moments? It was appealing.

“Fine, but don’t let harm come to either of them.” Jaster finally conceded tiredly and stalked towards his room so he could take a moment to compose himself in private.

Plo’s first instinct was to follow him but Mij shook his head ever so slightly.

“Let me talk to him. I know we’re being a bunch of heels here by ignoring our guests but I think everyone needs some time to get their head on straight. And to be honest? Jaster needs to hear some brutal truths if we’re going to make any progress here so it might as well come from me.”

“Very well, I surrender to your expertise in this, Mij.” The Jedi agreed with a placid bow of his head. Though he was loathe to admit it, there was some truth to the younger man’s words. By nature of his and Jaster’s relationship, his first instinct would be to try and comfort and soothe him but he suspected Mij would impart some much-needed wisdom or insight into the matter.

“Sorry for making a poor first impression. I wish I could say we’re not normally this dramatic, but it would be a lie.”

Ril chortled softly at that. “We do not mind, doctor.”

“I appreciate your patience,” Mij said as he climbed to his feet and followed Jaster into the bedroom.

Jaster was seated there on the bed gingerly rubbing at his shoulder though his hand dropped away almost guiltily when he heard Mij’s footsteps.

“Too late, you’re officially caught in the act.” The doctor stated blandly. “You should have told me if it was bothering you.”

“It’s not so bad, I’m just tense right now.”

“And as raw a shrills backside probably from a combination of pain and stress. Which I shouldn’t have to tell you tend to go hand in hand with one another. Loosen your shirt so I can look at your shoulder. I think a fresh anti-inflammatory injection might be needed here.”

“Spare me whatever lecture you have ready, I’m not in the mood to listen to it.” Jaster said a little sharply but he did comply all the same.

“Tough luck, because you need to hear this before you royally kark things up with [Spoiler Character]”

That earned him an unfriendly look from his Mand’alor.

“I appreciate that you want to jump in and fix things for her like some legendary Mandalorian warrior out of some holonovel. It’s a credit to you and your moral character that you are one of those who see injustice and immediately spring into action to fix it.” Mij lectured as he used a sterilizing pad to wash Jaster’s skin to inject him with the anti-inflammatory.

“It makes you a good man and an excellent Mand’alor, so I don’t take this as criticism when I say you need to stop trying to solve all of [Spoiler Character]’s problems for her.” The hypo barely made a noise when he depressed the button and it injected the combination of anti-inflammatory and mild analgesic into Jaster’s shoulder.

His words earned him a confused look from Jaster.

“She’s had everything taken from her from what we can tell, yes? They seem to have locked her up and treated her like an animal, taking whatever made her human away in the process. She’s lost all sense of agency and her ability to self-determine her own life.” He murmured and reached for a fresh bacta patch which he started to cut up and paste in strategic spots along Jaster’s torn rotor cuff.

“And now, she finds herself among us, these total strangers who she’s probably been told for the better part of a decade to hate and fear, and you come in guns blazing, making these super well-meaning and romantic speeches about how you are going to avenge her. Without even giving her the courtesy to ask what she wants. Because you think you know what’s best for her as an adult and a man who has made it his mission to protect those weaker and more vulnerable than him.”

As always, Mij did not mince his words or take any prisoners when it came to speaking to Jaster about things he deemed needed to be stated.

And judging by the way Jaster flinched almost imperceptibly, those words had struck their mark.

“Do you understand what I’m saying? You need to let her feel like she has some control of her own life. Don’t just try and fix it for her, let her decide for herself, and you will give her back her own sense of agency and probably help to make her feel far more comfortable being here among us.”

“I take your point.” And it was a sour one to swallow but Jaster was man enough to admit when he had misstepped or made a mistake.

"I understand your anger and know that I share it. We all do, and we will make them pay for what they have done. I doubt there isn't a single Mandalorian here in this building that won't want to tear them to pieces once they find out what Death Watch has been up to. But for now, you need to shelve that anger because it's not helping the situation. I thought that poor Jetiii was going to keel over when you had your little outburst."

"Apparently, I have some anger issues, according to Plo. He's been trying to trying to teach me how to surrender into the Force or some osik like that."

"I never noticed," Mij said, voice drier than the Sundari desert.

"You're so insufferable, do you know that?" Jaster accused with a mingled look of exasperation and irritation.

"I know, I don't know how Tani puts up with me." This was said with a self-deprecating smile filled with fondness for his wife.

"I don't know either, you definitely don't deserve her."

"Tell me something I don't know, vod. Try and don't overdo things with your shoulder, huh? It' just going to take longer to heal if you keep aggravating it. I'm going to go entertain our guests while you cool off."

"Yeah, thanks, Mij."

"You keep this up, I might start charging extra for all the armchair psychology I'm having to do here."

"Pretty sure you have to be a licensed psychologist to charge for that. Otherwise, you're just the overly opinionated shabuir who thinks he knows how to solve everyone's problems." Jaster snorted but it was said in teasing jest rather than out of a place of anger or irritation.

"Or I"m just simply underpaid and underappreciated."

"Take it up with Myles, he's the one who handles the payroll."

[dragonmuse]

i don’t remember if someone has asked this already, but does Lucius stay in contact with his mother after coming out to her? do Pete and/or Izzy ever meet her? and does Izzy ever tell Lucius about the weird “dream” thing he had when he was concussed?

(I have sideways answered to some extent because Lucius' mom will play a part soon in the mainverse [I got a lot done on chapter two of the regency au today so yay! block gone there].

The second question though I have been asked before, but not formally so...let's unlock that shall we? )

It was raining. Something about the gloom and the distant pounding of a headache made Izzy a little sick to his stomach. He had Sweeney in his lap, but the brush had gone still, poised in the air above waiting fur. 

“Goblin? Iz?  Izzy,” someone said and it took him a second to come back to himself. 

“Hm?” Right, the brush. The cat. He went back to the short strokes that Sweeney would generally allow, working out the last of the winter fur blow out. Lucius was standing in front of him, brow furrowed. 

“You okay?” 

“Head’s going again,” he admitted. 

“You want me to get your meds?” 

“Already took ‘em. Should start working soon.” 

“When?” 

“In the bathroom a few minutes ago.” 

“Why didn’t you say something?” 

“Got distracted, sorry, pup.” 

“S’okay, you just freaked me out a little,” Lucius sighed and sat down beside him. He took the brush out of Izzy’s hand and set it aside. “You want to tell me why you blue screened just now?” 

Izzy dropped his hand into Sweeney’s fur in lieu of the brush. With the years of good food and care, Sweeney had grown a very plush coat. Izzy let soft strands run through his fingers. 

“When I got the concussion, I had this...dream. Thing.” 

“Okay?” 

“And it comes back sometimes. Not like..I’m not hallucinating, but I think I remember a part of it. Or a feeling. And it was really...really fucking real feeling. You ever have a dream like that?” 

“Sometimes,” Lucius nodded. “I remember parts of them. A boat sometimes. I don’t know why. I don’t even like the ocean much.” 

“They never make sense. But this one kind of did. It was like...like a fucking story or something.” 

“You were pretty deep under. Maybe that was your brain’s way of coping. Tell me about it?” 

“Other people’s dreams are boring.” 

“Goblin. Come on. It’s not like you usually tell me what you dream about.” 

“Because it’s boring nonsense.” 

“But this isn’t?” 

Izzy frowned, but then had to nod. “It was different.” 

He started slowly. Predictably Lucius interrupted here and there with questions. 

“Wait, so I show up like a femme fatale?” He grinned. “Aw, I’m flattered.” 

“You looked good in the suit,” Izzy told him because it wasn’t like a lot of good was happening after that. 

“Oh yeah? There’s my next Halloween costume sorted out then. So what’s the job?” 

The more Izzy talked, the more intent Lucius seemed to become, questions falling away into a deep silence. It would’ve been alarming, but Izzy found the more he talked, the more it came back to him and he was barely in the room at all. He was standing in an alley that reeked of garbage or walking down broken sidewalks, his heart beating too fast or sitting at the counter of Mary’s diner inhaling cheap coffee. 

“So I gave over the evidence and then...then things started to break down.” 

Lucius waited, but when Izzy said nothing more, he spurred him on, “What do you mean they broke down?” 

“I think it was when Jim showed. I was trying to wake up or something.” 

“And?” 

“I saw...something. Someone. I ran after them. And the world was just falling apart.” 

“Okay. So you woke up?” 

And Izzy could say ‘yes’ because he had soon after that. Woke up to pain and queasiness and Lucius’ voice calling him home.  But he tried not to lie these days, unless he had to. Especially not to Lucius. 

“It was...fuck...It was so...” Izzy huffed in annoyance, the words eluding him.  

“Must’ve been bad.” 

“No,” Izzy slowly rubbed Sweeney’s good ear between his fingertips, the cat purring deeply. “It was good. I just...it’s so fucking pathetic. That my brain would go there. All of it was.” 

“Hey, don’t be mean to your brain,” Lucius put an arm over the back of the couch, caging Izzy in a little. 

“I saw Faith,” he sighed. “I mean, of fucking course I did since my brain was fucking determined to feed me every cliche piece of shit going.” 

“Oh wow... like full on?” 

“I didn’t realize it was her or maybe it wasn’t her entirely...dunno. But she told me to wake up.” 

“Aw, your girl looking out for you,” Lucius kissed his temple. “Not a bad thing.” 

“Wasn’t her,” he sighed. “Wasn’t anything real.” 

“You had a lot of details in there for a dream,” Lucius pointed out. “You were really in it.” 

“I think...” he trailed off. 

“What, goblin?” Lucius prodded. 

“It made me think of people blabbing about seeing the light.” 

“...yikes,” Lucius shifted closer. Sweeney yawned and jumped down off Izzy’s lap, apparently over the entire scene. “You were okay though. You were always going to be okay.” 

Izzy thought about those last few seconds. The words Faith had said that he couldn’t bring himself to repeat. Not to himself, let alone to Lucius. 

Don’t make me a thief.  

He’d almost followed. He’d almost done that. He had just been so goddamn tired. 

“I’m all right now,” he agreed. “Headache is even mostly gone.” 

“Hey, look at the meds doing what they’re meant to do,” Lucius smiled. “I don’t know much about dreams or anything. But I can get why it’d linger. And I’m glad that even in your weirdest nightmares, I’m still hanging out and flirting with you.” 

Izzy laughed. What else could he do? 

“Yeah, pup. Guess I can’t imagine a world that doesn’t happen in.” 

“Of course you can’t,” Lucius said smugly. “One doesn’t exist. I’ll always flirt with you.” 

The headaches dissipated slowly over time. They never quite went away, but days between became weeks then months. But no matter how long they went away, they always returned with tinges of memory. Grey skies, red lightning and a lady in red. Lucius always knew after that too and he would bring Izzy back with teasing and a neck massage to will away the pain. 

Izzy’s subconscious could keep it’s Spriggs, who was never quite real enough. He’d take Black any day over him.

[thestalkerbunny]

TSB Plays Legends Arceus Part 33

.....Okay that’s some heavy words of wisdom. Good bye Cyllene. I left a Wurmple in your desk drawer as a gift.

We take a moment for a brief intermission.

....What....

In the FUCKERY is that?

Fucking CHRIST.

(I did end up catching it because that was just so fucking cool and such an interesting detail the game and the Magikarp lore in general.)

BACK TO OUR DAILY PROVIDED NONSENSE.

....I caught a Garyados. I....It was flying 90ft in the air. It was so SICK.

I can see, I have EYES.

I have been made aware, tiny cowboy.

What are you implying, Cowboy-I’ve been trying to help with this bullshit. Maybe YOU should do something for once.

That’s WHAT I THOUGHT.

Irida is gonna be in a difficult position regardless.

....Do you at least have a GUN I could borrow?

Yeah provided another garyados doesn’t fucking yeet itself into the sky.

YEAH WE GET IT, SKY SCARY.

Lady, I’ve already got anxiety over this shit in general, you’re not HELPING.

Well Kamando decided to BLAME me in regards to this because it’s just easy and convenient to peg the outsider with the blame.

YEAH CAUSE I DON’T HAVE AN ANSWER. I’VE RUN OUT OF ANSWERS. I KNOW AS MUCH AS YOU FUCKERs.

NOPE. Xenophobia got too thick for me. I live outside now. I’m off the grid. I shredded my credit cards.

*inhales* YEAH I FIGURED. Nobody wants to touch the dirty outsider.

YEAH. I FIGURED. Tell Melli I put a Wurmple in his hut. I put a lot of wurmples in a lot of people’s places of rest-it’s gonna make for an INTERESTING spring when they pupate.

Time also causes wounds to decay and rot when untreated.

*sigh.*

This is fucking bullshit.

I wanna go home. I was supposed to watch Stranger Things Season 4. Our Flag Means Death just got renewed. They just released footage of LECHONK. My skin looks terrible, I haven’t had a proper bath in ages cause soap is just fucking LYE and harsh as fuck, I’m TIRED of potato mochi

This is stupid. Really really stupid.

What is SCREAMING at me, I am LAMENTING.

Ah.

BABY.

You’re a baby.....

I like you baby.

You’re a good baby, you’re not a hateful weird xenophobe who is gonna blame me for this shit.

You’re probably colorblind  and you don’t even NOTICE the sky going all pixely and RED.

Okay bye bye baby, I love you sweetie awww looket them.

Shinx are always so cute. No wonder they’re Sinnoh’s top ranked pokemon pet.

....I miss my old pokemon.

Shit, I hope someone’s FEEDING ‘em. And someone at least is giving Atari his meds. Because uh. Those things don’t go in the MOUTH and he needs a towel hood and 3 people preferably ONE with a VET Doctorate to admister ‘em.

Oh GREAT.

It’s the end of the WORLD and I’m somehow STUCK WITH YOU. God, not even BEEDLE from BOTW doesn’t hound and follow me around like you do.

And I was looking to NOT be found by you. I NEVER want to be found by you, you weirdo.

I have done. ZERO trade with you and your merchant guild. Like. Actual literal ZERO. I pushed all my time and money into pokeballs because I go thru shit like tylenonal on my period.

AH. So you heard Kamando is fucking crazy blaming me.

I get it, you’re a GOSSIP hound.

.....I don’t like how you’re TALKING to me like this, it makes it sound like you’re trying corral me into a weird situational living arrangement with you that I am NOT into.

Don’t bother, I plan to just fuck off the Coastland where there’s a ship wreck. I plan to make a raft and make my way to Galar, thank you very much.

What part of ‘please go away’ translates to ‘please-continue BOTHERING me.’

I am NOT A MAREEP. Don’t HERD me places, I HATE that.

AND YET IM NOT BEGGING NOR CHOOSING, I JUST WANT YOU TO LEAVE, WEIRDO.

Oop.

H....Hewwo?

Cog...Cogita?

Volo please introduce me to your 10 superior.

Mommy-SORRY.

Mommy-SORRY.

MOMMY-GODDAMIT.

-inahles-

Ma’m.

[saltybaltic]

AYO YOU AMAZING WRITER YOU💖 Can you write an nsfw Natasha x reader sex pollen fic where r goes on a mission with everyone and is the only one that gets hit with the sex pollen and thinks nothing of it until they get back for the debrief and r starts feeling the effects during the meeting with the rest of the avengers in there like the fever and aches and is super turned on and humiliated and everyone is confused trying to figure out what’s wrong then Bruce says the only thing that can help is sex and she picks Nat to help her out? Something super smutty 😳

Natasha Romanoff X Reader - EXPOSURE

Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow X FemReader Fanfic

Synopsis: On a mission you seem to be the only one who’s been hit with this air borne drug. Fortunately you have a great team mate to help you through it

Warnings: 18+ content, f/f sex, sex pollen so the usual dub-con for this trope

Words: 2345

You’d really thought nothing of it until you’d gotten off the quinjet. Even the whole journey home you had felt fine, brushing off everyone’s concern with a flick of the wrist as if it was nothing. You really had felt fine. The exposure to the gas back at the enemy base had been minimal, barely a few seconds, and after a brief once over by one of the SHIELD medics, you had been given the all clear that it was probably fine.

It wasn’t until you were walking towards the briefing room to have the post mission meeting that you started to feel anything unusual. Your skin was starting to itch with a burning hotness that was impossible to ignore. When you had parted ways with the team to quickly get changed out of your combat gear before the brief, you had treated yourself to a very cold shower but if anything it only seemed to have made you even more aware of how hot you were feeling. Washing at all was starting to feel like a total waste of time, your hands already clammy with sweat and the hair by your temples beginning to dampen and cling to the side of your head. Your brain felt fuzzy but at that same time it was like you were thinking with perfect clarity. It was like nothing you’d ever experienced before.

Looking around the briefing room as you entered, it was as if you were wearing tinted glasses, everything not quite the way it should be and with a tinge of deep red or orange. You could feel every beat of your pulse against your skull, every hammer of your heart in your chest. Your throat felt dry yet you couldn’t stop running your tongue over your lips to prevent your mouth from watering.

It wasn’t until Natasha sat down beside you that it became apparent that something was very wrong. The smell hit you like a bus and it only intensified everything you were already feeling. It was like your senses had been dialled up threefold. You could take her all in as if it were carefully arranged layers just for you to enjoy; the coconut of her shampoo, the sweet smell of the lotion she’d applied after the shower, the laundry detergent on her fresh clothes, the smell of her perfume.

Maybe it wasn’t the most subtle reaction you could have had if you were hoping not to attract any attention, but jumping up from your seat so violently that your chair fell backwards with a loud crash certainly ensured that everyone’s eyes were now on you.

“Are you okay?” The concerned voice of Bruce from the other side of the room hit you but you could barely focus on what he was saying.

Standing up from her own seat to look at you more closely, Natasha cocked her head to the side as she examined your flushed skin, heavy breathing and blown out pupils. She turned back to the others in the room with a frown, “See, I told you she wasn’t alright.”

“But the medics checked her over.”

“Oh like they know everything.”

“Well they know more than you!”

“It was only a minor exposure and we don’t even know what it was.”

“She said she was feeling fine on the quinjet, I mean this could be something else.”

“Sure, it’s just a huge coincidence that she feels like this after being gassed.”

As the team descended into an argument, you couldn’t really hear what they were saying. Nor, did you care. You felt restless and fidgety, tapping your foot up and down against the ground as you rubbed at your forearms uncomfortably. Your jaw was clenched tight, tilting your head from side to side to work the muscles in your neck as you tried to get your breathing to return to normal. It felt like an adrenaline rush, that feeling that hits you just as the rollercoaster is about to go over the big drop. But it also felt like a hunger, a craving for something like you were a predator that needed to hunt. It was too hard to put your finger on it, too early in the stages of whatever you were feeling to identify it yet.

The sound of someone calling your name broke you from your thoughts, looking up at the rest of the occupants in the room to see them all watching you expectantly.

“What?”

Sitting down by a laptop at the head of the table, Bruce pushed his glasses up his nose as he tapped a few keys before looking up at you, “I’ll have to use the database we have to try and identify what you’ve been exposed to. But I need you to concentrate and answer a few questions okay?”

You nodded your head, closing your eyes momentarily as a wave of heat washed over your body and you tried to remained focused, “Sure, sure, sure let’s do it.”

“So this gas ... could you see it? Did it have a colour?”

It was so hard to focus on the question, your brain working at a million miles a minute but unable to make sense of whatever it was that you were thinking about, “Erm ... I don’t ... it was kind of ... like a greyish blue, I guess.”

“And a smell? Did it have a smell?”

“It was ... sweet. I suppose. Yeah ... but like ... a dessert or something. Like someone had lit a vanilla candle.”

The questions seemed to go on forever, with the occasional interjection from someone else as they tried to help with the answers. Each question narrowed the possibilities down further, Bruce carefully inputting the information into the computer. By the time he got to the bottom of it, you could barely think straight any more, your hands balling into fists as you tried to process the discussion that was taking place around you.

“That’s ridiculous, they don’t actually use that stuff.”

“Well obviously they do because here we are.”

“If they don’t use it then how is it in their files? We only have the information because we took it from them.”

“But there’s never actually been a case of it being used before.”

“Until now.”

“I mean just wanting to have a lot of sex doesn’t sound that bad, there are worse ways to spend an afternoon.”

“Tony! Can you be serious for one second.”

“It isn’t that simple. This is like a real urge. It can be quite uncomfortable for the subject they-“

“The subject?! She has a name you know.”

“But she’s not gonna do anything crazy right?”

“Well no she won’t do anything she wouldn’t usually want to do but the need will be off the charts. It can drive people crazy if they don’t get some sort of relief from it.”

Finally you couldn’t take any more, clearing your throat loudly to get their attention and gesturing towards the door, “Yeah so this is pretty awkward, little embarrassing, bit too intimate to be honest so I think I’m gonna take off.”

“Wait, you should go to the med bay.”

You interrupted Steve’s statement with a laugh, already making your way towards the door as you used all of your willpower to ignore the powerful surge of hormones and need coursing through your body, “What are they gonna do for me there exactly?”

“I dunno, some of those nurses are pretty cute.”

Despite the fact Tony’s joke earned him a disapproving look from almost everyone, you were actually grateful for it, laughing again as you took his words as your cue to escape and hastily left. You were halfway to your room when you heard the sound of feet hitting the ground behind you.

“Wait up.”

God even the sound of her voice was getting too much now.

“Nat. Please, I really really can’t be around you.”

Despite your statement, the red head fell into step just behind you and followed you down the corridor, “I wanted to make sure you got back alright.”

“And while I appreciate that, you’re way too hot to be this close to me.” your eyes fell closed at your words, the effects obviously starting to hit you stronger now as the confession fell freely from your lips. You never spoke to Natasha like this, you wouldn’t have dared on a normal day for fear she’d knock you to ground. Whatever you’d inhaled earlier that day didn’t seem to share your reservations as the arousal started to make itself known.

Natasha pursed her lips, not wanting to embarrass you as she was fairly certain you would never have normally said something like that to her. Certainly not so blasé. “It’s okay. I know this must be ... overwhelming.”

You snorted, “That’s one word for it. But seriously ... I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to be here.”

“Well I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to be alone.”

Stopping outside your bedroom door, you looked back at the other woman and immediately had to close your eyes and turn your head away instead as a strong pang of arousal hit you, “Jesus.”

“What? Does it hurt?” the concern in Natasha’s voice was obvious, watching you carefully as your eyes bunched closed tighter and you pushed out a shaky breath.

Shaking your head frantically from side to side, you went to grab the door handle from behind the other woman, “It’s uncomfortable. It’s way too intense. I just wanna ... fuck ... I need to get inside ... I need ... I need you to move, please.”

The sensation of Natasha’s hands coming up to rest on your cheeks caused your breath to catch in your throat. It was almost too much, the feeling of her soft skin on yours was like electricity, a shiver travelling the length of your spine and a heavy drop hitting your stomach. One of her thumbs brushed over your cheek before she spoke, “Let me help you.”

When you opened your eyes to look at her, the feeling that came over you was like nothing you’d ever felt before. It was as if someone else had taken control of you, like you were watching from the sidelines as your body acted of it’s own accord. The moment your eyes had locked with Natasha’s, everything you’d been fighting to control took hold of you and in three brisk steps forward you had the other woman caged between the door and your body, one of your hands coming up to rest on the wood beside her head.

“Natasha.” You paused to wet your lips, ignoring the huskiness to your voice as you scrambled around in your head for the smallest ounce of restraint, “You really need to leave now before I do something I can’t take back.”

If you had been expecting any reaction from the other woman, what she actually did would have been somewhere at the bottom of your list. Over the year or so that you’d worked with Natasha you’d had a mostly professional relationship, though that wasn’t to say you weren’t friendly with one another. However the forwardness of her next move was new territory all together.

Moving her hands from your cheeks, she ran them slowly down to either side of your neck. You could do nothing but lean into the gesture, goosebumps rising and flesh searing at the feeling of her fingertips digging into you. You were so lost in the sensation of her touch that you hadn’t realised she’d leaned closer until her hot breath hit the shell of your ear and she spoke in a low whisper, “But just think how good it would feel if you let me help you.”

Her words actually pulled a growl from the back of your throat, the ever growing heat between your thighs magnifying significantly at her words, “Nat ... last warning.”

Instead of backing down, Natasha tilted her head enough that her lips could attach to the side of your neck before speaking again, “Stop fighting it, I know you want me.”

That was enough. You couldn’t have prevented it no matter what had tried to stop you, pushing the door open with one hand as the other gripped the back of her neck and pulled her into a searing kiss. Practically falling through the door together, Natasha’s hands found your waist and all you could do was groan at the relief of the full body contact. Feeling the way her breasts pressed up against your chest, her tongue slipping into your mouth, her hands around your waist as yours slipped down to grope at her ass. God it was intoxicating and still you wanted more

If you had any control over the urges that were powering your body you’d probably have wanted to take your time. Your attraction to Natasha wasn’t something you were particularly ashamed of or desperate to hide. However you’d barely got as far as building up a friendship with the red head and so jumping straight into sex seemed like you were skipping a few important steps. Not to mention the fact that you were fairly certain this was not going to be a terribly slow or tender encounter. No. With the way you were already pulling her clothing from her body and tearing at your own, you both knew that this was something else all together.

Fortunately for both parties Natasha really didn’t mind. Of course after Bruce had explained the effects you would be feeling, what else would she be expecting really? But in the time the two of you had been working together she had come to care for you and the idea of you struggling alone wasn’t something she cared for. Also she’d be lying if she said she hadn’t thought about you in a sexual way before, granted she never thought this would be how it happened.

In all your haste to get Natasha undressed you actually fumbled several times with the fastening of her bra, sure that you’d be embarrassed under normal circumstances but currently too frustrated and impatient to care. You were relieved when Natasha wordlessly reached around and undid the clasp herself, throwing the item across the room before wrapping her arms around your body to do the same with your clothing.

You could barely register what was happening as the two of you staggered backwards into your bedroom, barely managing not to trip over the clothing and shoes that you’d discarded on the way. You were too lost in her to bring yourself to care about being careful. Just kissing her was absolute heaven. Her tongue sliding over yours, lips working frantically together. You had expected Natasha to be a good kisser and maybe it was just the effects of what you had been exposed to but it was like a sparks were flying, a warm wave washing over your body and a pang of arousal with every soft moan from the red head that vibrated against your lips. The way she would occasionally suck your tongue more harshly into her mouth made you feel wobbly on your feet, and the sensation of her nipping your lower lip between her teeth had you desperate for more.

It didn’t take long for you to be pinned on the mattress beneath her, both naked now and lips still moulded together as she settled herself on top of you. Already you couldn’t stop yourself from grinding down against her thigh, desperate to relieve some of the pressure that had started to build. If anything you needed it more now, the arousal bordering on uncomfortable as you became acutely aware of just how wet you were against Natasha’s thigh.

The other woman didn’t need to be told, evidence of your arousal already coating her skin. She finally broke the kiss to lean down, but she had barely attached her lips to one of your nipples when you pulled her back up with a frantic shake of your head and a groan, “Please Nat, I can’t wait any longer, just fuck me already, please.”

You felt on the verge of crying you wanted it so bad, the whole experience completely foreign to you. It was bizarre to be overwhelmed with such a primal, animalistic need. Every time you found yourself in bed with a woman you enjoyed everything about it; lavishing her body with attention, the anticipation, the teasing, wanting to take her to the heights of pleasure over and over. This was nothing like that at all. You really just wanted to fuck. More than anything you wanted to come and you were fairly certain if you didn’t soon then it would be the death of you.

Nodding her head in understanding, Natasha pressed her lips to yours again as she propped herself up on one of her elbows, “I’ve got you, don’t worry.”

You were so soaked by now her fingers slipped easily inside of you and all you could do was lie back and release a loud moan. You weren’t sure whether it was in relief or pleasure but either way you were certain that Natasha’s fingers had to be one of the most wonderful things you’d ever felt in your life. Just one thrust of her digits already had your fingers grabbing at the sheets below you, heels digging into the mattress and head thrown back against the pillow in bliss as finally, finally you were given what you had been craving.

“Good?” asked Natasha, her fingers having stilled inside of you almost immediately as she waited for some kind of signal from you that what she was doing was definitely what you wanted.

Nodding your head hurriedly, you brought her mouth down to meet yours again, mumbling frantically against her lips between kisses, “So fucking good ... keep going.”

Natasha grinned, happy to oblige as she started to move her hand again and picked up a steady pace. Almost immediately your hips were moving of their own accord to match her, grinding down against her fingers as she worked them inside of you. Every thrust was heaven, the woman above you seemingly knowing exactly what you needed as she began to push into you harder and faster with each stroke.

Everything about it was satisfying the urges that had been threatening to overwhelm you. The brush of her hardened nipples against your chest as she moved above you. The frantic pants for breath into your mouth between heated and messy kisses. The intensity of how she was watching you and the subtle smirk on her lips as she knew how much you were enjoying what she was doing. When her thumb came up to brush over your clit you wanted to be embarrassed at the groan of pleasure that rang out in the room but you were too far gone now to care.

All of it was perfect. She was perfect. You could feel your head getting foggy, that faint twitch to your limbs as the pleasure was building in the pit of your stomach. As you tightened around Natasha’s fingers you craved the release that you knew was so close. The way her eyes were locked on you almost made you melt under her gaze, the darkened green eyes and pink tinged cheeks making sure you definitely wanted to have your way with her after this.

You could feel it happening, allowing the sensation of your orgasm to consume you as it started to hit with another brush of your clit and a curl of Natasha’s fingers. A loud cry of her name echoed off the walls at the action, your teeth sinking into the side of her neck in a failed attempt to muffle the noise. You couldn’t catch your breath at the feeling of satisfaction that finally swept over your body, hands gripping at her shoulders and toes curling into the mattress as you relished the moment. Your thighs quivered slightly and you could feel your pussy clenching around Natasha’s fingers, the red head groaning in quiet appreciation at the sensation. It was exactly what you needed.

And just as her fingers were beginning to still, you could already feel the arousal rising again. The tingles of pleasure had barely subsided and you hadn’t even had a chance to catch your breath before you were hungry for more. Natasha seemed to notice it at the same time you did, not missing the way your eyes had clouded over with lust again.

You were filled with relief when you caught her smirking and her fingers started to slowly move again.

Yeah, Natasha was definitely the right person to help you with this problem.

—//—

Find the morning after HERE

[johnnysnostril]

nct 127

when you’re on your period

if you’re anything like me- your period cramps can be hell and hurt like a motherfucker. 🥺 so, i thought it would be cute to write little stories of how the boys would react when you’ve just started your period. ❤️ to all my girls suffering right now, this ones for you. ✨

in no specific order 🤍

“baby?” haechan yelled as he made his way inside my apartment. i moved my lips to groan but nothing came out. “where are you?” he sang in a happy tone.

i pushed my palms into my pelvis and rolled on my side. “i brought you some goodies, my love.” he whispered as he entered my bedroom. the room was dark and silent- just the way i liked it when my time of the month started.

“aww- my poor baby.” haechan whined. “don’t worry, i’ll take care of you.” a small smile appeared on my lips as he kissed my forehead. taking a seat on the side of the bed, he turned my table lamp on- shielding my eyes with his other hand. “just close your eyes, babe.” i did as i was instructed.

haechan shuffled through the shopping bag, popping seals and opening a few bottles. “what is that?” i mumbled. “i got some pain meds for you.. i just wasn’t sure which ones to get, so i got a couple.” he whispered. “also-“ as i opened my eyes, he reached back into the bag- pulling out a heating pad. “i’m sure this will help a lot.” breathing a laugh, i reached out for him. “baby- you didn’t have to do all of this.” haechan shook his head and leaned down to hug me. “i know i didn’t have to, but i wanted to.” he swiftly kissed my forehead and laughed a bit. “now here.” he said plugging in the heating pad. i pushed back my blanket as he wrapped the pad around my tummy. “how’s that feel?” haechan rubbed my thigh and titled his head. i nodded and shut my eyes. “a little better.” he smiled before dumping two small advil’s into his palm. “can you sit up so you can take these?”

sitting up, i threw the gel pills in my mouth and swallowed it down with some water. “thank you.” i whispered. as haechan turned off the light, he climbed in bed next to me and cuddled me into his chest. “you’re very welcome, my love.” haechan ran his fingers through my hair softly, and started to sing in a low tone. i breathed in his scent, feeling more at home than i ever had before. “i love you-“ he whispered as i drifted off to sleep.

“babe.. babe… wake up.” i heard johnny’s voice whisper to me. as i slowly opened my eyes, i noticed johnny standing next to my side of the bed. “baby- you gotta get up.” he continued. “what’s wrong?” i mumbled as i rubbed my eyes. as i started to turn over, johnny gently pushed his palm into my lower back. “wait- don’t move yet.” i furrowed my brows, staying in my position. “what are you doing?” i groaned as i looked over towards the clock. “it’s 3:45am.” i whined. hurrying over to the bed, johnny came back with extra clothes and a towel- setting them on the mattress. he gently picked me up, bridal style, and carried me to the bathroom. “you started your period, baby.” he said in a gentle tone. i instantly panicked as we reached the bathroom. “put me down.” i demanded.

as my feet reached the floor, i felt the shooting pain through my hips and back- along with my pelvis area. as johnny flipped the light switch on, he began to run a bath for me. i covered my face, crying from embarrassment. “baby.” johnny groaned. “don’t cry- it’s okay.” he pulled me into a hug and kissed the top of my head. “i’m so embarrassed.” i mumbled. “don’t be.” he laughed. “there’s nothing to be embarrassed about, okay?” johnny stepped back and gently cupped my cheeks, kissing my lips. “it’s alright. let’s get you out of these clothes.” as he undressed me, he folded up my stained underwear and shorts, then helped me into the bubble bath. i watched as he removed the sheets and took them to the laundry room, along with my clothes.

washing my body, i finished my bath and let the water out, cleaning myself off completely. johnny made his way back in with a towel and wrapped it around me as i stepped out. leading me back out to the bedroom, i noticed the new sheets and some medicine on my side of the table. “just in case.” he smiled.

johnny watched me as i redressed myself and took a pain pill. he patted the space next to him on the mattress and reached out for me. i cuddled into his chest and shut my eyes. “i’m sorry..” i whispered. “shhh- you don’t have to apologize. just get some rest, baby.” he whispered back. johnny rubbed his palm up and down my back, helping me drift off to sleep. “my baby..” he mumbled.

“babe!” i squealed as taeyong entered our apartment. his smile was bright as he shut the door behind him. running up to him, i forced him into a hug- wrapping my arms around his body. “my god, i missed you.” he mumbled into my neck. we stood there for a moment, holding each other before i let go. “i missed you too.”

as he turned to lock the door, i skipped back over to the couch.

“what were you-“ he started. “um…babe-“ he said cutting himself off. i turned around and smiled at him. “what?” i chuckled. the look on his face was serious as he took my hand and lead me to the bathroom. “shower with me.” he chuckled. i furrowed my brows. “why? do i stink?” i said folding my arms. he shook his head and embraced me. “of course not- you never do. just- shower with me.” he said repeating himself. i pulled back from him and watched as he started the shower, taking off his shirt. “but, why?” i said innocently. “we never really shower together..” i mumbled. “babe- just come on, please.” taeyong took my hand and smiled before kissing my fingers. i pouted. “you think i stink..” i said looking down. “honey, you don’t stink- for the last time.” he sighed before walking me over to the mirror and turning my body around. “you started your period, babe.” he said kissing my temple. i inhaled sharply as i looked back at myself in the mirror. i covered my behind with my hands and backed away from him. “oh my god..” i said embarrassed. taeyong shook his head and grabbed my hands. “you’re okay, babe.”

he started to undress me as i stood there, in shock.

as we entered the shower, taeyong let me stand under the water first- to rinse myself off. he started to wash my body, kissing my forehead as the water showered down on us. “i can’t believe you just saw that..” i groaned. he laughed and pulled me into his chest. “it doesn’t matter, honey. i don’t see you any differently.” he admitted. “yeah, but still.. you’re not supposed to see that.” i mentioned, feeling ashamed. “and why not?” he questioned. “because, what if you don’t love me anymore..” i whined as i began to cry. “oh, baby.” he chuckled. “i’ll always love you- just because you got a little blood on your pants, don’t mean i won’t love you anymore. stop it.” he said squeezing me into a hug. i cried on his chest and wrapped my arms around his bare body. “you’re so silly- i could never stop loving you.”

hanging up the phone, i squeezed my fingers into my right hip. “i hate this..” i mumbled to myself. as i dragged myself to the bed, i curled into a ball- hugging myself. i felt bad for canceling on yuta, but these cramps were just way too extreme to go to the amusement park today.

feeling my phone vibrate, i looked down- seeing yuta’s name across the screen.

“i’ll be there in 10 minutes, sweetheart.”

i smiled and internally replied to his text.

shortly after, i heard yuta open the front door. “where’s my princess?” he said happily. the sound of his voice almost made my cramps go away.

as he trotted into the bedroom, he had a big gift basket in his arms. i softly laughed as he sat down next to me, on the mattress. “what in the world is that?” i said giggled. yuta set the basket on the sheets and began to review everything. “my mom said most of these would help.” he started. “i’m not really sure what most of these are anyways- but, i know these are tampons.” he chuckled as he held the small purple box. i laughed and reached out for his hand. lacing our fingers together, i squeezed his fingers tightly. “your mom made this?” i asked. yuta nodded and reached in the basket with his free hand. “she also made homemade chocolate. it’s the best.” my lips quivered at how sweet yuta’s mother was. “i have to thank her.” i said sitting up.

“ah- you just relax right now.” yuta pushed me back and gently kissed my lips. “i’ll make you some tea and we can cuddle, okay?” he smiled, showing his pearly white teeth and i agreed. “you wait here- don’t move a muscle.” running off to the kitchen, yuta began working on the tea.

as i waited for him, i slowly went through the gift basket. there was all kinds of different tampons and pads- along with pain medicine and sweets. i chuckled and shut my eyes. “thanks mama nakamoto. you’re the best.” i whispered. returning to the bedroom, yuta handed me the tiny cup of tea before kissing my lips. i slowly sipped on the tea before laying against him as he climbed back into bed. “so, romantic comedy?” he said turning on the tv. i giggled and looked up at him. “you know me so well.”

clutching onto my stomach, i hunched over and shut my eyes. “ honey, are you okay? you’ve been in there for a while.” doyoung said as he knocked on the door. “yeah- yeah. i’m fine.” i grunted. “are you sure?” he jiggled the door knob. “why is the door locked?” he laughed. i stared down at my completely red stained panties that laid on the floor. how could i have started today? my tracker said i had a week left.

“babe?” he called out for me. i sighed and began to cry. “please.. just go away.” how could this happen? at my boyfriends house, of all places!

“what’s going on?” doyoung cried out in a worried tone. i sat on the toilet as blood continued to fall from my opening- down into the water. as he fiddled with the lock, he quickly twisted the knob, coming inside the bathroom. “doyoung!” i shouted at him as i threw the toilet paper roll in his direction. he caught it, looking over at me. his eyes darted to my panties that laid in front of my feet.

“oh, baby. did you start your period?” he said setting the roll on the counter. as he approached me, i hid my face into my palms. doyoung kneeled down next to me and rubbed my back. “it’s okay, sweetheart. tell me what you need and i’ll get it for you.” as he kissed my shoulder, he grabbed both my wrists. “are you hurting?” doyoung searched for my eyes.

i nodded as more tears fell down to my cheeks. he gently wiped my tears away and smiled angelically.

reaching over into the bottom cabinet, he pulled out a box of pads. my eyes grew in size.

“why do you have these?” i said almost laughing. he breathed a laugh and stood to his feet. “i mean- you’ve practically moved in, babe. i knew at some point that you’d need something. just in case of an emergency.” he paused for a second. “well, my mom brought them.” he said in an honest tone. “it was kind of a welcome home gift, if you will.” doyoung laughed and pushed my hair back- kissing my forehead. “i’ll grab you a pair of my boxers and some pain meds. stay put.”

he quickly zipped around the apartment, grabbing what was needed and made his way back to the bathroom. “here-“ doyoung said handing me a glass of water and two white oval pills. he set his boxers down on the counter as i swallowed down the meds. picking up my underwear, he folded them in half. “no!” i shouted as i reached out for the stained garment. “i’ll take care of it..” i mumbled. doyoung shook his head and took my hand. “baby- it’s okay.” his eyes locked with mine. “you’re already going through enough. the least i can do is wash your panties.” as he chuckled, he grabbed the glass of water out of my other hand. “let me take care of you.”

“are you okay?” jaehyun whispered in a worried tone. i nodded my head and squeezed his hand. “yes, i’m fine.” i lied. “babe, we can go home if you’re in too much pain.” i shook my head. “no- i promise i’m fine. this is the only time you’ll be free. i wanna take advantage of this.” i mumbled before looking back over at the movie screen. “now, shh.” i giggled. jae kept his eyes on me for a moment before looking back at the screen and sighing.

as the movie ended, jaehyun wrapped his arm around my waist while we walked out to the lobby. “still doing okay?” he said examining my steps. “mhm.” i grunted.

i actually felt like my pelvis was going to drop right to the floor. “babe- you’re a terrible liar.” he laughed. “i can tell you’re hurting just by the way you’re walking.” i huffed and looked up at him as we exited the movie theater. “i’m sorry- i just didn’t wanna ruin the date.” reaching his car, he opened the passenger side door for me. “babe, the way you feel is more important than a movie date.” before getting in the vehicle, jae kissed my forehead and helped me into my seatbelt.

pulling into our driveway, he helped me out of the car. “straight to the tub, little missy.” he demanded. “why?” i asked as we entered the house. jaehyun laughed and hung his car keys on the key holder. “do you have to question everything?” he said before folding his arms and approaching me. i nodded. “only when you’re being bossy.” i giggled. my smile faded as i felt a sharp pain in my stomach. i slightly hunched over and jae took my hand. “come on- no more standing for awhile.”

i climbed into the hot water, sinking down to the bottom slowly. “how’s the water?” jaehyun asked. “it’s fine-“ the bubbles attached to my sink as i rested into the water. i shut my eyes as jaehyun watched from outside the tub. he sat and leaned against the bathroom wall. “i really hate that i can’t do anything to help with the pain.” he whispered. i opened my eyes and looked over at him. “i promise i’m okay.” i laughed a little. “there is one thing you can do-“ i said reaching my hand out for his. jae smiled and took my hand. “and what’s that?” his dimples showed on his cheeks and he tilted his head. “join me.” i said smiling innocently.

without hesitation, jaehyun stood up and started to undress and i watched with glistening eyes. scooting up to make room, i tucked my knees into my chest as he climbed in behind me. positioning me in between his legs, he pulled me back to rest against him. jaehyun wrapped his arms around me and i placed my hands on top of his. he caressed my tummy with his thumb and kissed my temple. “can i do anything else? massage your hips? anything?” he asked. i shook my head and smiled. “no- just this. this- is perfect.” i mumbled.

changing into a new pair of panties, i climbed back on the bed. “taeil..” i whispered and tapped his shoulder. “babe..” i mumbled. his eyes slightly opened as he turned over to look at me. “what’s wrong, baby?” he groaned in a sleepy tone. “umm.. i, uh-“ i started. the words wouldnt come out. i was too embarrassed. as i sat on my heels, looking down at him, i played with my fingers. “what is it? is everything okay?” taeil had completely turned his body to face me. his eyes were halfway open as he reached up and rested his palm on my cheek. “i kinda just.. started my period.” i whispered. “and-“ as i slowly pulled back the blanket, i pointed to the red stain. “i accidentally got it on the sheets.” i said ashamed. “aw, baby. are you okay?” taeil sat up and turned on the small lamp that rested on his night stand. he completely ignored the fact that i just stained his sheets with my blood. “uh, yes- i’m fine. but your sheets.” i huffed. “forget the sheets, i’ll just wash them. how are you feeling?”

“embarrassed..” i said getting off the bed and walking over to my night bag. searching for some pain meds, i rummaged through the duffle bag. “why, baby? it’s not a big deal.” he chuckled, standing to his feet. as he approached me from behind, i groaned- giving up the search. “what are you looking for?” taeil said as he rubbed my back. i ran my fingers through my hair, feeling my emotional pull taking place. “pain pills.. these cramps are kicking my ass.” i said almost in tears. “i bled through my favorite pair of undies and onto your sheets. i’m so annoyed.”

taeil immediately pulled me into a hug and kissed the top of my head. i wrapped my arms around him and pouted. “i’ll go grab some medicine for you. we can wash your underwear with the sheets. it’s going to be okay babe.” he whispered softly. “what else do you need?”

“taeil, it’s 2am. you’re not going to the store just for some pain pills. i’ll be okay..” pulling out of the hug, he looked disappointed with my reply. “i said what else do you need, babe?” he cupped my chin and looked right into my eyes. “i’ll change the sheets then you can lay back down. i shouldn’t be gone that long.” without giving me time to protest, taeil quickly ripped the sheets off the bed- replacing them with new ones. i stood in the center of the room as i watched him pull his sweatshirt over his head and step into some sweatpants. “if you don’t tell me the specifics, i’ll just grab everything.” he laughed. “tampons- just tampons.” i replied quickly as i hugged myself.

after slipping on his shoes, he grabbed his car keys and wallet- making his way over to me. “you don’t have to be so stubborn, babygirl.” taeil smiled and gently kissed my lips. “i’ll be back. why don’t you lay down.” he said nodding in the direction of the bed. i sighed and wrapped my arms around him to give him a hug. “thank you..” i mumbled into his chest. he chuckled and hugged back. “you don’t have to thank me baby- this is my job. i’m supposed to take care of you.”

“shit-“ i said staring down at my stained underwear. i folded them up and shoved them in my backpack. “ commando it is.” i rolled my eyes and sighed as i exited the bathroom stall. after washing my hands, i turned to look at my backside in the mirror. “no!” i groaned. i had actually leaked through the back of my pants as well. “how didnt i notice that?” i said to myself in an annoyed tone. “ugh!”

sneaking out of the girls bathroom, i stayed close to the wall, looking for jungwoo out towards the cafeteria. spotting each other at the same time, i waved him over in a quick manner. jungwoo jogged over to me and smile, letting his backpack hang off one shoulder. “you okay?” he said kissing my cheek. i shook my head and looked up at him as i clutched my backpack to my chest.

“i bled through.” i whispered. he laughed and leaned his ear down to my lips. “what?” i huffed and cupped his ear as i whispered again. “i bled through my pants, babe.” as i pulled back, jungwoo was already removing his hoodie. tossing his backpack on the ground, he grabbed my waist- tying the sweatshirt around my hips.

“let’s get you home.” as we walked through the crowd of high schoolers, i felt like everyone knew about my little accident. reaching the parking lot, jungwoo opened the car door for me. “but i don’t wanna stain your hoodie.” i whined. “nevermind that. just get in.” his eyes were soft as he looked down at me. i pouted and did as i was told.

reaching my house, i quickly hurried inside with jungwoo behind me. “you don’t have to stay.” i said making my way to the laundry room. “what? why wouldn’t i?” he asked surprised. i quickly tossed my underwear into the washer and slammed the lid down as jungwoo stood in the doorway. “you don’t have to be embarrassed, babe. it’s okay.” he laughed. i ignored his comment and walked past him, running upstairs into my bedroom. of course, he followed behind me- but in a slow manner. pulling out a clean pair of underwear and pants, i slid them on my body and kicked the dirty pants under the bed. as jungwoo entered the room, he pulled me into a gentle hug. “relax.” he started. “you don’t have to hide anything from me.”

“do you need anything?” he whispered. i shook my head. “no-no. i’m fine.” i answered back. “baby, let me help you.” jungwoo took my hand and lead me over to the bed- laying me down, then sat next to me. “i know you must be cramping. do you need anything for the pain?” he asked. waving my white flag, i sank into the sheets and wrapped myself up in my blanket. i nodded to answer his question, feeling slightly helpless. “where’s your pain pills? i’ll go grab them.” i pointed over to the bathroom. “inside the medicine cabinet.” i mumbled. jungwoo smiled down at me as he pushed my hair out of my face. “do you need anything else? tea? a hot towel?”

in this moment, i was falling more in love with him. once again, i shook my head. he slowly got up and made his way to the bathroom, searching for the medicine. “i love you.” i mumbled.

gently rocking myself side to side, i squeezed my eyes shut. i pushed my palms into my pelvis area to try and massage myself but it wasn’t working. “dude! how’d that even happen?” mark shouted at his video game. i cuddled myself into his blanket as i laid on his bed. i should really say something. maybe he could just take me home for the night. “shit- i almost died, dude.” he laughed.

a sharp stabbing feeling ran through my body and i groaned a little too loud. mark quickly looked back to check on me before turning back to his game. “babe- you okay?” his fingers clicked against his controller quickly. i couldn’t move my mouth to speak. in all honesty, i was holding my breath- thinking the pain would subsided if i wasn’t breathing. “babe.” mark called out for me again. i was silent. “no, not you- you idiot.” he said laughing into his mic that was attached to his headphones.

covering my face with the blanket, i was almost ready to cry. “ouuuch.” i mumbled, squeezing onto my stomach. “what’s going on over there?” mark voiced. “what are you doing?” thinking he was talking to his friends on the game, i ignored him once again. “hellooooo.” he stretched out. i pouted underneath the blanket and tucked my knees into my chest. “yikes- i gotta go. i think i’m in trouble.” mark laughed. as he said his goodbyes, i heard him set the controller down and shut off his gaming system. “baby-“ he groaned. “what’s wrong?”

mark climbed into bed with me, tossing the blanket off my head. “why are you hiding?” he wrapped his arms around me and squeezed. “ouuuuuuch!” i whined. mark quickly pulled his arms back and sat up. “i’m sorry- i didn’t think i was squeezing that hard.” we were silent for a moment before mark placed his hand on my thigh. “are you mad at me, babe?” he asked. i shook my head. “then what’s wrong?” he chuckled.

“i’m cramping..” i mumbled. mark slightly hovered over me and he kissed my temple. “babygirl, why didn’t you say something? what can i do?” he softly began to massage my hips, being very gentle. “i don’t know..” i mumbled. “i have some advil- i can grab it for you.” i nodded and mark quickly darted for the medicine. as he made his way back over to me, he handed me a glass of water- along with the pill. he watched me take the pill before i handed the glass of water back to him.

closing the blinds, he made sure that the room was dark and comfortable. mark climbed into his bed with me and cuddle me against his chest. he ran his long fingers through my hair and massaged my scalp. “i’m sorry baby, i wish i could do more.” he whispered. i wrapped my arms around him and took in his scent. “i feel a little better already.” i replied.

[johnsamericano]

𝔖𝔲𝔤𝔞𝔯 ℜ𝔲𝔰𝔥 𝔧.𝔧.𝔥

Hi everyone! As promised, here’s one of the two most voted fic continuations. There will be more chapters to this story though I'm not sure how many yet. Thank you for reading!

warnings: sugar daddy jae, mentions of injuries and hospitals, language.

taglist: @thoreeo @trustmahluv

Sugar rush m.list.

The machine monitoring your father’s heartbeat was the only sound filling the quiet hospital room, where your once healthy father laid unconscious, his perfect, chiseled cheeks adorned with cuts and bruises. Would they leave a mark?

The machine monitoring your father’s heartbeat was the only sound filling the quiet hospital room, where your once healthy father laid unconscious, his perfect, chiseled cheeks adorned with cuts and bruises. Would they leave a mark?

The machine monitoring your father’s heartbeat was the only sound filling the quiet hospital room, where your once healthy father laid unconscious, his perfect, chiseled cheeks adorned with cuts and bruises. Would they leave a mark?

The machine monitoring your father’s heartbeat was the only sound filling the hospital room, where your once healthy father laid unconscious, his perfect, chiseled cheeks adorned with cuts and bruises. Would they leave a mark?

The machine monitoring your father’s heartbeat was the only sound filling the hospital room, where your once healthy father laid unconscious, his perfect, chiseled cheeks adorned with cuts and bruises. Would they leave a mark?

Where did everything go wrong?

Your string of thoughts was cut off by a call from your aunt.

Your string of thoughts was cut off by a call from your aunt.

“Hello?” Your voice was raspy from not using it. There was no one to talk to in the quiet, hospital room but the nurses, who weren't especially keen on chatting.

“How’s your dad, sweetie?”

“They let him out of ICU, but he doesn't look good to me.” Your fingers traced the cuts in his chiseled cheeks that would soon turn into scars, ruining his perfect skin. Your eyes then diverted to his head, thoroughly covered in bandages to protect his damaged skull.

“Honey, I've got bad news...”

“They rejected the case, didn't they?”

“Not precisely.” She deeply inhaled before continuing. “It’s a tough case, almost impossible to win, nonetheless, they're willing to take it. But their fee is a little...”

“Expensive.”

“Yes.”

As expected from the best firm in town, they wouldn't take less than $8,000. Your bank account didn't have enough money to even cover half of it, and with your job at the convenience store, you'd only earn so much to cover your expenses.

“We can take the lawyer that the government provides us with, it would be free.”

“But then I'm sure we’d lose.” You groaned in frustration, using your free hand to rub your forehead. “Don’t worry, I'll find a way to get the money.”

“Why don't we just accept the compensation they're offering? It could pay for the hospital bills and you'd still have some left to pay for your tuition.”

“That would be like putting a price on my father's life. I don't want their money, I want them to make themselves responsible for what they've caused.” The sound of wheels approached the door of your father's room, signaling the nurse was outside with his meds. “It’s okay, Auntie, I'll take care of everything. You can go back home, I know my uncle isn't doing so well.”

“Are you sure, darling?” It was undeniable that she wanted to head back to her little ranch fat away from the hectic city life to take care of her sick husband, but still, her brother was laying down on a hospital bed, fighting for his life.

“Yes, I'm an adult, I'll find a way.”

“Take care of yourself, and don't hesitate to call me if you're having any difficulties. I'll be there in the blink of an eye.” She said before sending a kiss into the speaker, proceeding to hang up.

You sighed. It was never usual for you to ask for help, as you were an extremely prideful and independent person, and you doubted this time would be different.

“Don’t worry, dad. Everything will be alright.”

Three failed job interviews and one more to go. Your feet were killing you, the high heels covering them already worn out from walking to avoid taking the bus. Every penny counted, and as long as your legs worked, you weren't spending any more money than what was necessary.

You sat down in the waiting room of the company, massaging your neck to relieve some tension. College was becoming a burden. Maybe you'd take a semester off to focus on working, that is if someone wanted to hire an inexperienced student.

“Y/n, Y/l/n?”

“Here.” You darted up, gathering your belongings to enter the room on which your life almost literally depended.

You gave all the right answers, earning a polite ‘we’ll contact you’ in return. But you could see that they weren't convinced with your lack of experience, no company in their right mind would be.

As soon as you arrived at your apartment, you slid out of the uncomfortable pencil skirt, tucking yourself under the covers with your phone screen almost hitting your nose.

To take your mind off things, you decided to watch some videos. Halfway in, an ad popped up, interrupting the interior deco video you were watching.

A picture of a girl about your age hugging an older man was right in the middle of your screen. Written with fancy letters, the words ‘make your life simpler’ could be read, followed by what you guessed was the title of the app. Sugar rush.

Out of pure curiosity, your finger tapped at the small icon that led to the app store, absentmindedly clicking the download button. A few seconds later, an icon with the letters ‘SR’ was added to your home screen.

“Log in?” You murmured out loud, squinting your eyes to adjust your eyes to the bright, white homepage.

Just as you were about to click out, the phrase from the ad reappeared, stopping your finger from moving any further.

You could always delete your account if something went wrong, right? Nonetheless, you decided to use a false name, and that's how Melanie Kim’s profile was created. You left the circle of your profile picture empty for now, only filling the spaces that asked about your likes, dislikes, age, and all that stuff that people care about so much.

You knew what the app was for, but that didn't stop you from being surprised when a list of men and women of different ages greeted you. Right then, a small rectangle obstructed your sight, two buttons offering opposite things.

‘Pick the role you'd like to develop.’

Sugar daddy/mommy / Sugar baby.

Clearly, you didn’t have nor the money or the years to be the first, so you clicked the opposite button without giving it more thought.

‘Welcome. You've been registered as a sugar baby at Sugar rush. Meet thousands of men and women willing to finance you for free!’

You hummed.

‘As we're always looking to make our users’ experience better, we've developed Sugar Rush premium, a membership to meet the richest and hottest people in your surroundings. Get the premium version for only $5.95 a month. Click here to get Sugar Rush premium.’

Your finger pad was dangerously close to the blue button, almost grazing the screen of the phone. It was then when you were pulled out of your trance, blinking as if just then you'd realized what you were doing.

“I must be crazy.” You turned off your phone, not bothering to turn on an alarm for the next day. You had no interviews left. You had nowhere to go.

Waking up was getting harder with every passing day. Not being able to call your dad to go out for breakfast or even sending a simple good morning message hurt you deeply. You missed him. But seeing him laying down on a hospital bed, unable to do anything by himself, was even worse.

Ding

A notification filled the silence in your room.

‘Come back, you haven't finished setting up your account yet!’

You scoffed at your past self. What were you even thinking when you downloaded the app?

You simply turned off the phone before standing up to take a relaxing shower. As the water soaked up your tense body, your mind started wandering off back to the app. A million what-ifs filled your head, nonetheless, there was one that remained the most persistent.

‘What if this can pay for a lawyer?’

Your part-time job surely couldn't, and you had no one to assist you financially speaking. The whole idea of paying that ridiculous membership seemed more tempting as your fingers started getting wrinkly under the showerhead.

You decided to take some time to consider it, after all, you still had a week to give the lawyers an answer.

Hot soup seemed like a good option to comfort you, and thankfully, there was a store right in front of your place that claimed to sell the best soups in town.

It wasn't bad, but not nearly as good as the one your dad cooked when you were a kid. You sighed, wondering if you'd ever be able to eat it again. Just then, a woman about your age came into the shop, carrying a couple of bags where names of popular brands could be read. A pinch of jealousy made your heart stir as you glanced at yourself through the reflection in the glass at your side. You looked devastated, your skin pale and your cheekbones slightly sunken, a sign of the lack of rest and food you'd been getting.

Out of pure impulse, you pulled out your phone, clicked on the app you'd recently downloaded, and finally accepted the charges for a premium membership.

‘Welcome, new member of our wide community, click ok to get started!’

Well, no turning back now.

Right after pressing the blue letters with your thumb, you were presented with a list of potential prospects, some of them including pictures, some of them only including name and a brief description of what they were looking for. The minority included their ages, but most left the space blank.

A bunch of old men looking for a youthful, pretty woman to be by their sides, some of them even went as far as writing the weight and height their ideal partner should have. Of course, there were also some women in the look for young meat, but the number of men overpassed them.

About to exit the app in defeat, a profile caught your eye. His pale pink hair was parted, allowing his thick eyebrows to stand out. His high cheekbones made him look like a statue, the details in his face almost too perfect for a mere human. He must be the incarnation of a Greek God, you thought.

‘Jung Yoonoh. 41 years old. Owner of N & C.’

“Should I...?” You asked yourself in a voice lower than a whisper.

He has probably gotten hundreds of messages, so what would be the point of sending one yourself? Your eyes scanned the picture over and over again as the remains of your soup started getting cold.

He was probably the only acceptable man in the whole app, so why not give it a try?

You already spent five whole dollars on it, might as well make it worth the money.

‘Hi.’ Sent.

“Holy crap.” You breathed out, regretting every single action that led you to take such a stupid decision. “Ah!” You squeaked as three small dots appeared beside his profile picture, signaling he was writing a reply.

What if he rejected you right from the beginning? God, that would be so humiliating. His message stopped your train of thought.

‘Hi!’

Followed by:

‘How are you?’

Sweating like a pig, thank you for asking.

‘Fine. You?’ Read.

‘Thrilled. No one had messaged me since I created my account two weeks ago.’

‘How is that possible?’ You imprinted your thoughts on a message.

‘It’s hard to trust people nowadays. I guess people might think either my picture is photoshopped or I'm lying about my job.’

‘Their loss, ig.’ Read.

He was taking some time to answer. Had you said something inappropriate?

‘Hahaha.’

The conversation stopped there, as you didn't know how exactly to answer his message. But a few minutes later, another text from him popped up at your chat.

‘If you're okay with it, we can start talking about a possible arrangement.’

Already? You've known each other for like five minutes. But then again, arrangements were the whole purpose of the app.

‘Sure.’

‘May I ask your reasons for joining the app?’

‘I need urgent money, but my job doesn't pay nearly enough.’ You omitted the part of your agonizing father, he didn't need to know that. ‘And you?’

‘I need someone to be my partner at public spaces.’

‘Alright.’ Read.

‘Do you happen to have some free time tomorrow at lunchtime? I think it’d be better to meet first before making any decisions.’

‘Yeah, I'm free.’

‘Great, I’ll send you the address.’

You thought a day would be enough to prepare yourself, but time passed by quicker than usual, and soon enough, it was time to get ready for your meeting with Mr. Jung. He was only a few years younger than your father, and calling him by his first name wouldn't feel right.

Unsure if you should wear something formal, you threw on a beige (the color you'd agreed on wearing so it’d be easier to recognize each other) summer dress, pairing it with the gold hoops you'd inherited from your grandma to make it look more elegant.

The hardest part of your routine was makeup. Your sunken cheeks couldn't be covered, and only after a few layers of blush and highlighter, you could bring your skin back to life.

On your way to the cafe, you went through the things you'd say when you met him. It was your chance to get your father what he needed.

You stood at the entrance with wide, scared eyes, shyly scanning through the place to look for your date.

“Melanie?” A hand on your shoulder had you jolting. “I’m Jung Yoonoh, nice to meet you.”

What you saw after turning around was breathtaking. A handsome, healthy man, with the most beautiful pair of dimples.

“Nice to meet you.” You managed to blurt out without stuttering, extending your hand to make the greeting more formal. The fake name didn’t seem necessary anymore. “It’s actually y/n, I didn't want to use my real name.”

“I understand. Let’s take a seat.” He offered with a kind smile.

He left you seating at the terrace while he made your order, a latte, and a chocolate cookie. Your fingers played with your hoops anxiously, trying to regulate your breath.

“They’ll bring our food in just a sec.” He offered a warm smile. “Your dress is pretty.” Yoonoh said out of nowhere.

“Thank you.”

“I see you're not a chatty person.” You were about to object, but he started speaking again. “It's not a bad thing! I usually talk a lot, so it’s a nice way to balance things.”

You nodded, seemingly uncomfortable with the man sitting in front of you.

“So, uhm, this is my first time doing this, so I'm not really sure where to begin.” He pulled out a folded paper from the front pocket of his dressing pants. “It’s a bit creased, but I can always print another one. I brought it so you could take a look and let me know if you wanted to change anything. I don't mean to pressure you, but you said it was urgent, so...”

You read the paper under his attentive gaze, making sure not to miss a single word. Everything seemed correct, except...

“Six months?”

“Is that too much?” A small wrinkle formed between his eyebrows, a sign of deep concentration. “Okay, so let's do this instead.”

He took back the contract, pulling out a pen from the pocket in his dressing shirt to correct the original stipulations.

“Four months, and if by the end of them you don't absolutely hate me, we can extend the time. Deal?”

“Just one more thing.”

You cleared your throat, conscious that your following words might jeopardize the whole arrangement.

“Are you sure you want to make it official already?” You had to stop for a moment as the waiter left your orders on top of the wooden table. “I mean, it's not that I have a problem with it, but it's your money and maybe you'd like to give it a better thought.” You resumed.

“The fact that you're concerned about me proves I'm making the right choice. Now, tell me, how much would you like to receive as a weekly allowance?”

Would it be too reckless to ask him straight up for the $8,000?

“H-how much are you willing to give me?” You felt dirty, accepting a stranger’s money like that.

“Whatever you need.” His hand suddenly reached forward to yours, causing every ounce of blood in your body to rush to your face. “There’s no need to be embarrassed, I'm here to help you.” His voice tone dropped, acquiring an almost soothing feeling.

“I need eight thousand by Thursday, next week.” His eyes were wide open, mouth having difficulties remaining closed. “I-I know it's too much, but...”

“I can find a way to give you that money, but I'd like to know the reason why you need it. Just to make sure it's nothing illegal.”

You puffed your cheeks, trying to find an excuse good enough to justify the amount of money you were asking for.

“It isn’t illegal, is it?”

“No!” You retrieved your hand from below his, now embarrassed at the possibility of him having a bad image of you. “I need it for my father.”

“I suppose you don't want to talk about it.” He started at his palm, lips pressed in a thin life. “But when it comes to arrangements like this, we need to trust each other, alright?” You barely knew each other, yet, he demanded to know a very personal detail of your life. Not that he didn't have a good reason for wanting to know, it wasn't a particularly small amount of money.

“He had an accident at work...” You started, fearful of looking up to find pity in his eyes. “I need a lawyer to make his company legally responsible. They intend to throw it under the rug and pay a somewhat decent amount of money to make it go away. The firm I intend to hire is supposedly the best in town, probably my only chance of getting justice.”

“And why don't you just accept it? There's no guarantee that your lawyer will win the case.” You fisted the delicate fabric of your dress, eyes watering as you tried to hold back your anger.

“My father’s life is priceless, and if you think what I'm doing is a waste of money, then fine, we can both look for someone else to help us.” It sounded more aggressive than you'd first intended, but you meant every word that came out of your mouth.

Before you could even stand up, his slim fingers had already wrapped themselves around your wrist.

“I never said that.” He whispered with an almost sad tone. “Come on, sit down.”

He tugged at your arm the slightest, showing off his charming dimples once again.

“I’ll give you the money on one condition...” He raised one of his thick eyebrows. “I’ll go with you to see the lawyer.”

“Why...?”

“That’s my condition, take it or leave it.”

“Okay.”

The days before your meeting with your potential lawyer were nerve-wracking. You'd seen Yoonoh another time to sign the contract, which finally made your arrangement official.

You’d visit your father every day, always hoping he'd be sitting with his arms wide open, ready to hug you. But nothing had changed ever since he first came into that room.

“I’m here to see Mr. Kim.” The secretary's gaze lingered on Jaehyun a few seconds before he finally snapped out of it. “Y/n Y/l/n.”

“Just a second.” He opened his agenda and quickly found your appointment. With a warm smile, he guided you through the corridors of the building, all the way to the elevator. “It’s the only office on the last floor, I'll be at my desk if you need anything.”

Once again, he shot Jae an uneasy glance before the metal doors slid close.

“What was all that?” To be honest, you couldn't care less. But a small chat might calm your nerves and prevent you from throwing up all over the place.

“What do you mean?” He grinned, pressing the button to the top floor.

“You know what I mean.” You scoffed, annoyed at his evasive behavior.

“We just happen to know each other, nothing special.” Before the conversation could continue, a loud ding resonated through the metal cubicle. “Let’s go.” His hand found its place at the small of your back, pushing you towards the glass door. Through it, you could see a black-haired man reading a pile of documents, occasionally raising a photo to examine it with his gold-rimmed glasses supported at the bridge of his elegant nose.

Jaehyun extended his arm over your shoulder to knock on the door, earning an almost annoyed ‘come in’ from the man inside.

“Let’s go.” Once again invading your personal space, he reached for the doorknob with you trapped between his arms.

As soon as the door opened, the man raised his eyes from the documents he was checking.

“What are you doing here, Jung?”

“I knew something was off...” You murmured, loud enough for the man at your side to chuckle.

“I brought you a client, you should be happy.”

“Miss y/n, I suppose. Have a seat.” His demeanor completely changed while speaking directly to you. “I spoke with your aunt last week, she explained the details of the lawsuit, but I must say, it isn't an easy case.”

“I know that, but I've been told you're the best firm in town, I know I'll have more possibilities of winning if you're my lawyer.”

“Best firm in town my ass.”

“Be silent or I’ll kick you out of the building.”

That was enough for Yoonoh to zip his mouth. For a while at least.

“I suppose she also told you about our fee.” He pushed his glasses up using his thumb. “We’d also keep 25% of the lawsuit money assuming we win the case, is that okay with you?”

“Yes-”

“Okay, stop.”

“I’ll call security, Jung.”

“Look at me, y/n.” He squeezed your arms. “This clown is trying to scam you...” He pointed his finger at the lawyer without breaking eye contact. “You’d be spending loads of money for someone who isn't even confident in his abilities. It isn't worth it.”

“And I suppose you'd do better than me, then.” The black-haired man scoffed. “If that's the case, then you can both leave. I'm quite busy at the moment.” With a turn of his wrist, he signaled you to leave the room.

You were fuming, stomping out of the building with Jaehyun right behind you.

“I found a great restaurant nearby, we can go there and-”

“What the fuck is wrong with you?”

“Calm down-”

“Don’t tell me to calm down when you just fucked up my only chance to give those bastards what they deserve.” The sun was starting to set, yellow light casting shadows over his tender cheeks.

“Can you listen to me for a second?”

“Are you laughing right now?” You bit your lip, hard, trying to hold back the tsunami of tears threatening to come out of your eyes. “Asshole.”

“Ouch.” He furrowed his eyebrows mockingly. Oh, how close you were to punch that pretty face of his. “Can I explain now?”

You remained silent, staring at the ground with the smallest frown between your eyebrows.

“How do you think I know Kim Doyoung?” Before even giving you a chance to answer, he continued. “That son of a bitch has been stealing my clients for ages.”

“Your clients...?”

“He isn't even that good of a lawyer compared to me.” He scoffed with fake arrogance.

“You're a lawyer?!” You slammed your palms into your face, whining at the newly acquired information. “Why didn't you tell me from the beginning?”

“Just wanted to swing by and annoy him a bit. Don't worry, I wasn't gonna let you accept his deal.” He winked playfully.

The sun was now hidden, the sky darkening as the moon rose to take its shift.

“Though I gotta say, I'm kinda offended I wasn't even an option. I'm a pretty great lawyer, you know?”

“Sorry.”

“I’ll forgive you if you join me for dinner. What do you say?”

As you walked into the darkness of the streets, his shoulder occasionally bumping yours, you wondered if meeting him was a casualty. Maybe the world was finally smiling at you.