#but in my regular life i have met more than one person who lived a rad fucking existence

[alliswyattonthewesternfront]

reading through some of the articles that came out about Jake Adelstein in the wake of Tokyo Vice and man. why do people do this. you live a life that is objectively cooler than the lives of most people, but for whatever reason, you feel the need to embellish things or outright lie. for what!!! you could have just written about your cool life dude. you didn't have to get into all that mess.

[teaboot]

Sorry if this comes off as rude, or too personal, but how do you still have the mental strength to be like you are, after everything you've gone through? Like, not to make suffering a competition, but from what you've shared, it seems like you've had to deal with so much more than most, and yet you're still able to create, engage in the things you love and enjoy, and even wish better for the people who'd only want the worst for you. As someone who hasn't been able to do any of those for a while now, or feel anything beyond a sticky sense of resentment, I'd appreciate the words of someone who's been in shit miles deeper, if that isn't too much trouble. Sorry if this whole thing sounds weird, and thanks for being one of the weird funny guys on my dash, you've given me lots of laughs when I've needed them.

Oh, wow. Uh.

I think first off- not to minimize my experiences cause my therapist says not to do that- but I have a LOT of friends and loved ones who have been through much worse and are also doing good now, so that kinda helps. Knowing that if they got through things, I can too, and they don’t think less of ME for struggling.

Secondly… I think I used to not be so happy about life. I was really angry, really sharp and ascerbic, and when people who met me matched my energy, they’d be sharp and ascerbic back. And so I’d trap myself in this place where life ALREADY sucked, and then everyone around me was awful, so I’D be awful, and it would turn into this absolute mire of bad feeding bad.

And then one day I think after a long good cry in a public toilet, I just felt… better? Not BETTER, because I still had all my problems, but I think I was riding that post-cry high you get sometimes and the sun just looked brighter, and the annoying kids around me were just… less aggravating. The dumb teen boys being idiots were less “stupid morons with no depth who don’t care and can’t think” were just… regular old dumbasses having fun. And then I said hello to someone with a smile, and they smiled back, and we had this great conversation I never would have had otherwise, and I figured out that people are kind to you when you’re kind first.

Which seems obvious, but like… it’s hard to see anyone else when you’re hurting. And so when people are cruel or rude to me, I just think… wow. People probably see you being an asshole and treat you like an asshole. You probably see your own bad attitude reflected back at you everywhere you go, just like I did, and you probably have no idea. Every stranger you meet is a rude bitch who hates your face, and you’ll never be able to go anywhere that isn’t full of tense, defensive, cranky bastards until you figure out that YOU are causing the bulk of it. Like a dog trying to run from the shit on its tail.

And the idea of living your whole life where nobody is happy to see you, nobody truly enjoys your company, everyone is walking on eggshells and waiting for you to snap on them…. That’s a pretty sad and painful way to live your whole entire life.

So like. I try to treat people kindly, and in return I get to see happy people wherever I go. I try to make them laugh, and listen to them talk, and once they do they aren’t frightening or annoying or strange anymore.

most people, at least.

So like… I don’t think “look on the bright side” is the right answer, but maybe… find something good to believe in, and hold on.

I believe that people at large are good and kind or at least trying their best, and that those who can’t or aren’t are… sort of pitiable.

They don’t know where their pain is coming from, and they can’t make it go away, and it’s been like that so long they probably think the whole world is just LIKE that. So they never really get to experience the good things. And that’s… kind of like a hell, I think, in a way.

I don’t believe in karma. I don’t think I’m religious. I just think that we all want similar things, and we all fear similar things, and the ways we go about getting to or running from those things is different.

….if any of that makes sense.

[kerokeeces]

ENHYPEN SFW hyung line fanfic recs!

who am I? im just silent reader who enjoys fics and want to help others find some of my favorites! srry im hee + hoon biased so most are about them

short fic - 1-5k words long fic - 5k+

HYUNG LINE

the look of love by @won4kiss - (how they look at you when they’re blinded by their love) - short fic

low power mode by @sungbeams - (when you get overwhelmed while you're out together) - text msgs

just a bet by @all4yoi - (after a few months of dating, you find out you were just a bet.) - short fic

HEESEUNG

sing me a song by @senascoop - (when you can't fall asleep and heeseung tries to help by singing you a song) - short fic

race to your heart by @coqhee - (lee heeseung who's always been a pro at racing takes on a change of pacing ; racing for your heart.) - long fic

uh oh im falling in love by @won4kiss - (you and heeseung have been rivals for as long as you could remember, constantly competing for the top spot in school—basically everything. living next door to each other only added to the fire, the tension between you, especially when heeseung’s cocky aura never seems to waver. but one single encounter shifts the entire dynamic, leading to confusing emotions arising, jealousy, and new surprising revelations. what happens when rivalry starts to feel like it’s growing into something more?) long fic

a stoner's guide to starbucks by @jayflrt - (in which you work at the starbucks where heeseung is a regular at (and considered a public enemy). also he only goes when he’s stoned off his ass.) - smau series

she knows her sour patch kids by @allforhee - (living under the protective eyes of your older brother, park sunghoon, he thinks he knows you the best. but litte does he know that heeseung knows you love your sour patch kids more than you love his usual swedish fish.) - short fic

win one win me by @jaylver - (who knew being angry and impulsive can get the captain of the hockey team to notice you? cussing them out when they were losing wasn't the best idea, but it definitely made lee heeseung's head turn, leading to him making a deal with you to win a game in order to get your number. but that wasn't enough for him, he was determined to make you his.) - long fic

from screens to scenes by @enreveriee - (you decide to give online dating a shot but have never met your boyfriend in person, nor do you even know what he looks like. when your friends pressure you into finally asking him out for a real-life date, things take a surprising turn. what you expected to be a simple meetup becomes an adventure filled with unexpected twists.) - long fic

taste of life by @mygnolia - (heeseung is invisible to everyone, robbed of recognition as people pass through and never acknowledge him. to live as a shadow who observes is hard—heeseung sinks into corners and simply wishes for a chance to be a part of something. but when you finally come to the biggest halloween party of the year and see him, he can’t help but be attached.) - short fic

bring the heat by @kairoot - (y/n has always disliked heeseung, the arrogant rising star of the racing scene. she especially dislikes him when he beats her brother in the city’s street racing round and takes it upon herself to do a rematch and race him. but when she gets herself stuck in a predicament, her enemy is the only one who can save her. maybe there’s more to heeseung than just his big ego.) - short fic

bjoux by @okikeu - (The fashion industry is difficult, so when the CEO of Korea's finest, luxury fashion brand, Le Désir, loses the most important ambassador of her career, her life is pretty much over. That is, until she finds a face that makes her previous fumble look like a simple marketing scheme.) - smau series

cliches are okay by @chogiwow - short fic

JAY

how you get the girl by @jaylver - (Beach parties are supposedly fun and exciting, aren’t they? Wrong. Experiencing college parties is rare for you, but you decided to give this one a go after your best friend’s constant pleas. Things were alright until everything turned sour when trouble found you and eventually you were roped into a fight alongside the campus’ famous hockey playboy. As if that wasn’t enough, the devil himself conjured up an idea that you found yourself being entangled in. It was all fun and games up until confusion arose, feelings being confessed and played, in the end, Jay had to learn how to get the girl, his girl.) - long fic

white corvette and lipstick by @okwonyo - (waiting for the cab with your boyfriend in the night.) - short fic

pictures enhypen send you of bf!jay by @ddksoo - fake texts

fast forward by @asahicore - (After yet another romantic disappointment in the form of one Jake Sim, you go to the well you’ve always believed to grant wishes and ask for your one and true love to appear. That night, you go to sleep in your bed but wake up in a strange house. When you head downstairs, you find a man washing the dishes and telling you your favorite meal is waiting on the table for you. You’ve spent hours glaring at the back of that head, you could recognize it anywhere—it belongs to none other than Park Jongseong, your high school sworn enemy… and future husband, or so it seems.) - long fic

JAKE

bed chem by @cupidhoons - (your friend sets you up with a cute aussie boy at her party) - short fic

texts with bestfriend!jake by @silquids - text msgs

found you by @whjluv - (jake is very well known and loved by everybody on campus. equally popular was his relationship with the captain of the volleyball team, haneul. even more popular, sadly, is his breakup after more than a year. the months following the event take a significant toll on jake, who becomes unrecognizable. his once sweet, friendly and pure nature is replaced by a constant gloomy and somber aura. what happens when this new version of jake sim unexpectedly clashes with a very straightforward and quite intimidating member of the school’s podcast?) - long fic

SUNGHOON

deep honey by @paarksunghoon - (the last thing you want to do is interrupt sunghoon’s time with his friends, but your doting boyfriend has always said he’ll be there whenever you need him. when a shift at work leaves you hanging by a thread, he and his friends are there to patch your soul back up.) - short fic

cafeteria confessions by @reinahwanggg - (everyone thinks you're dating your childhood best friend sunghoon. well, everyone including sunghoon because he confessed to you almost a year ago and you didn't exactly know it was a confession because of how casually he said it.) - short fic

sunghoon with a crush on you by @woniecore - smau

get well soon by @senascoop - (You’ve always considered yourself a good person—kind, forgiving, and patient. But Sunghoon tested every bit of that. One reckless, drunken drive was all it took for him to flip your life upside down, leaving you temporarily confined to a wheelchair. The inconvenience was more than just physical; it was a wound to your pride and independence. Sunghoon, however, refused to walk away from his mistake. Guilt-ridden and determined to make amends, he became a constant presence in your life—covering your medical bills, offering you emotional support, and sticking around even when you wished he wouldn’t.) - long fic

love on air by @pshbites - (two podcast groups, both equally popular on the internet, start interacting with one another. however it isnt how fans want it to be.. OR yn sees sunghoon hating on lauryn hill and accidentally starts an entire fanwar with him.) - smau series

the 24-hour dating challenge by @jaeyunverse - (being a famous youtuber isn’t easy, especially when you have to constantly come up with new ideas to keep your audience entertained. and this time, your viewers want you to date park sunghoon, your best friend of nearly a decade, for the entirety of 24 hours.) - long fic

[arilevenatz]

By Her Side

Pairing: Bodyguard! Mingi x princess!reader

Genre/trope: fluff, comedy (?), Modern royal au

Word count: 8.5k

Warnings: Age difference, reader is 10 years younger than Mingi, Mingi and reader first met when she was 10, but it was just cute relation back then, reader's hand gets burned. Lmk later if I missed something!

AN: phewww now this might not be for everyone guys. It's a risky trope for some people but because I have parental issues I'm fine with this. But if u still decide to read this after ignoring the warnings and then proceed to hate my work, I'm gonna delete and block you. That being said, enjoy Mingi being an absolute cutie

Masterlist

The Kang family had always been at the center of their nation’s identity, revered for their grace, strength, and modern leadership. Crown Prince Kang Yeosang, the epitome of royal perfection, was frequently seen fulfilling his duties with calm authority. The press adored him, and the people admired his unwavering commitment to the country.

But then, there was her—the mysterious younger sibling, the princess. Her name was only whispered in the media, her face hidden behind the shroud of privacy. She was unlike any princess depicted in the movies or books. She spent her days like an ordinary teenager, far removed from the royal spotlight, in oversized hoodies and sneakers. To her, the palace gates were more like walls keeping her in than protecting her from the outside world.

The princess rarely appeared at public events, and even when she did, the cameras were only granted fleeting glimpses of her, often from the side or with her head bowed. While the media speculated about her personality, the truth was far simpler—she just wanted a normal life.

To the world, she was Princess YN of the Kang family—a figure shrouded in mystery. But to the people who mattered, she was just YN. She attended a regular high school, sat in the same classrooms as everyone else, and blended into the crowd so seamlessly that most of her classmates often forgot about her royal title. She was the girl who shared notes, cracked jokes, and groaned about exams like everyone else.

Her friends treated her like one of their own, never bowing or tiptoeing around her. They teased her when she tripped in gym class and cheered her on during group projects. They knew who she was but never made it a big deal. She loved that.

What wasn’t so normal, however, was the tall figure who accompanied her everywhere—Mingi, her bodyguard. Dressed in unassuming clothes and rarely speaking unless needed, Mingi was her silent protector, always lingering at the edges of her life. Whether she was walking to school, grabbing ice cream after class, or spending hours at the library, Mingi was there.

He wasn’t just a bodyguard, though. To YN, he was more like a guardian, someone who quietly guided and watched over her. While her friends sometimes teased her about having her “personal watchdog,” she never minded. Mingi had been a part of her life for so long that she couldn’t imagine going anywhere without him.

During lunch breaks, while her friends chatted and laughed, Mingi often sat a few tables away, scrolling through his phone but always aware of her. When they walked home from school, she’d casually chatter about her day, and though Mingi’s replies were short, his presence was steady and comforting.

“I bet you think my math teacher hates me,” she said one day, munching on a bag of chips as they walked to her favorite bookstore.

“I don’t think he hates you,” Mingi replied, glancing at her. “But maybe stop arguing about every grade?”

She grinned. “Never. Someone has to keep him on his toes.”

“You’re going to give me gray hair before I’m 30,” he muttered, shaking his head.

“You’d look good with gray hair,” she teased, nudging him.

Moments like these made YN feel like the luckiest girl in the world. She might have been born into royalty, but with Mingi by her side, she got to live a life that felt wonderfully, perfectly normal.

How did they meet? Well the meeting was a bit chaotic.

It had been a quiet spring afternoon when ten-year-old YN first met Mingi. The palace halls were dappled with sunlight, and the faint hum of gardeners at work outside filled the air. YN, dressed in her favorite pale blue dress, sat in the corner of the grand library, building a lopsided tower of books. She was humming to herself when a knock interrupted her focus.

“YN,” the King’s voice came from the doorway, deep and steady as always, “I want you to meet someone.”

She turned, pushing her hair out of her face, and blinked at the tall figure standing beside her father. He was lanky but strong, with wide shoulders and a quiet confidence that seemed far too mature for someone who looked only a decade older than her. His black hair was neatly combed, and he looked stiff in his uniform—nervous, even.

“This is Song Mingi,” the King continued, his tone softer now. “He’s going to be your bodyguard from today onward.”

“Bodyguard?” YN tilted her head, confusion written all over her face. “Why do I need a bodyguard?”

The King smiled. “Because you’re very special, YN. And special people need someone to look after them.”

Mingi bowed deeply, his voice low but clear as he spoke for the first time. “It’s an honor to serve you, Your Highness.”

YN frowned, her gaze darting between her father and the stranger. “So… what does he do? Stand around and look boring?”

Her father chuckled, patting her head gently. “He’ll be here to keep you safe and help you with anything you need.” With that, the King left, leaving YN alone with the unfamiliar young man.

For the first few days, YN wasn’t quite sure what to make of Mingi. He followed her everywhere, always a step behind, silent and watchful. Whether she was in her room playing with her dolls, exploring the gardens, or eating her meals, he was there.

“Do you ever talk?” she asked him one day, spinning around to face him as he stood by the door to her room.

“If you want me to,” he replied simply, his voice calm.

“What’s the point of you being here if you’re just going to be boring?” she huffed, crossing her arms.

But things began to change after a few days. It started with little things—how Mingi always made sure her favorite snacks were on hand during study time, how he carried her books without being asked, or how he gently guided her away from muddy puddles in the garden without a word. When she tripped during a game of tag with her friends, Mingi was the first to rush to her side, kneeling to check her scraped knee.

“You’re not hurt badly,” he said, his voice soft but steady. “But let’s get this cleaned up.”

From that moment, something shifted. YN began to trust him. Soon, she found herself clinging to him more and more. She’d tug at his sleeve whenever she wanted something, ask him endless questions about his life, and insist he sit with her during meals, even if he tried to politely decline.

“Mingi, do you like chocolate or vanilla?” she’d ask, holding up two bowls of ice cream.

“Vanilla, I guess,” he’d reply, only for her to shove the bowl of chocolate into his hands with a grin. “Well, I like chocolate, so you’re eating this one.”

It wasn’t long before Mingi became the center of her little world. To her, he wasn’t just a bodyguard—he was a constant, someone who made her feel safe in a way she didn’t even realize she needed. She didn’t care about the circumstances that brought him to the palace, or that he was the son of a noble family that had fallen from grace. To her, he was simply Mingi, her guardian, her protector, and the one person she trusted with everything.

By the end of the first month, she was practically glued to his side. Wherever YN went, Mingi wasn’t far behind—and she made sure of it.

The palace soon became accustomed to the sight of YN clinging to Mingi like he was a second skin. Wherever she went, her tiny hands were either clutching his sleeve, gripping his uniform jacket, or reaching up to be carried. And Mingi, with his endless patience, always obliged her, no matter how exhausting her energy seemed to be.

One day, while attending a charity event with her parents, YN grew bored of the endless formalities. The long speeches and handshakes weren’t exactly ten-year-old-friendly. Spotting Mingi standing a short distance away, she made her way over to him, ignoring her mother’s disapproving glance.

“Mingi,” she whined softly, tugging at his sleeve. “I’m tired.”

He crouched down, his expression softening. “Want me to take you somewhere quieter?”

“Carry me,” she demanded, lifting her arms up dramatically.

Without hesitation, he scooped her up, balancing her effortlessly on his hip. She snuggled into his chest, resting her head on his shoulder. The cameras caught the moment almost instantly, flashes illuminating the hall as reporters whispered to each other. The next day, headlines were plastered across every paper: “Princess YN Finds Her Comfort in Her Shadow, Bodyguard Mingi!”

It didn’t stop there. The media couldn’t get enough of their dynamic. During a public library visit, YN decided to curl up in Mingi’s lap while reading one of her favorite picture books. It was an innocent gesture—she had always leaned on him as a source of comfort—but the sight of the princess slouched against the stoic bodyguard with her book upside down made the perfect photograph.

“Do you think you could sit any straighter?” Mingi teased in a low whisper, glancing down at her as she adjusted herself against him.

“Nope. I’m comfy,” she mumbled without looking up.

The royal PR team later joked that the image single-handedly made the entire nation collectively “awww.”

Another instance came during a school event. YN, participating in a relay race, tripped over her shoelaces midway. She wasn’t hurt, but her face scrunched up in frustration as the other kids raced ahead of her. Before anyone could step in, Mingi walked straight onto the track, kneeling beside her.

“You okay, Princess?” he asked gently.

“No!” she pouted. “I was winning!”

“Want me to carry you to the finish line?” he joked.

Her eyes lit up instantly. “Yes!”

Despite the protests of her teacher, Mingi picked her up, her arms looping tightly around his neck, and jogged to the finish line. The other kids laughed and cheered, and YN wore a smug grin for the rest of the day. The moment was, of course, caught on video and quickly went viral.

In quieter moments, their bond shone just as brightly. During long car rides to royal functions, YN would inevitably fall asleep against Mingi’s shoulder, her little body slouching into his side. No matter how cramped or awkward the position, Mingi never moved until she woke up, even if his arm went numb.

“Doesn’t she get heavy?” one of the royal aides once asked him, watching as Mingi carried a dozing YN into the palace after a long day.

“Not at all,” he replied simply, adjusting her slightly so she’d be more comfortable.

Mingi didn’t care about the headlines or the public perception. To him, YN wasn’t just his responsibility—she was his charge, his little princess. And to YN, Mingi wasn’t just her bodyguard. He was her rock, her protector, and the one person who never let go.

As YN grew older, her dynamic with Mingi evolved, but in many ways, it stayed the same. He was no longer the one carrying her around or fetching things for her—she had plenty of palace staff to do that—but Mingi remained her constant, her anchor, and most importantly, her best friend.

“Hey, Mingi,” she said one day, sprawled across the palace couch, flipping through her phone. “Can you believe someone asked me to bring them a cup of water today? Me. A princess. I mean, can you imagine?”

Mingi, who was sitting nearby with a book in hand, glanced at her, unimpressed. “You could’ve just gotten it for them.”

“I don’t think so.” She raised an eyebrow, smirking. “That’s what staff is for.”

He shook his head, hiding a small smile. “You’re impossible.”

“But you like me this way,” she quipped, tossing a cushion at him.

Mingi might have been her bodyguard, but to her, he was the one person in the palace who never treated her like royalty. He didn’t bow, didn’t rush to fulfill her every whim. And she liked that. She didn’t need to ask him for anything—he already gave her his loyalty, his protection, and his steady presence.

She didn’t hesitate to make the distinction clear to others, though. If anyone dared to suggest Mingi do something outside of his role, she was quick to shut it down.

“Mingi isn’t staff,” she’d say firmly. “He’s my friend. Get someone else to do it.”

Her other staff quickly learned that Mingi held a special place in her life, and they respected it. Meanwhile, YN never held back from treating him like a confidant. She’d drag him to her favorite places, tell him all her secrets, and share everything from her late-night worries to her wildest dreams.

“You know, sometimes I think you’re the only person who actually knows me,” she told him one evening as they sat in the palace garden.

“That’s because you talk my ear off,” Mingi teased, though his voice was warm.

“Well, someone has to listen,” she shot back with a grin, leaning her head against his shoulder.

And though Mingi never said it, he valued their friendship just as much. To him, she wasn’t just a princess—she was YN, his closest friend, the one person who treated him like family in a world that often felt far too formal.

It was a crisp winter evening, the kind where the cold seemed to seep into your bones despite the layers of warm clothing. The royal family stood on the grand balcony of the palace, gazing down at the crowd gathered for the annual winter gala. A sea of people, elegantly dressed in thick coats and scarves, murmured excitedly below, admiring the lights twinkling across the square.

YN stood near the railing, her eyes wandering over the scene, but she wasn’t paying much attention to the event itself. Instead, she was focused on the warm presence beside her. Mingi stood just behind her, always watchful, his dark coat blending with the night as he ensured she remained comfortable despite the chill in the air.

Every few moments, Mingi would glance down at YN, noting how her scarf had slipped a little, exposing her neck to the cold. Without a word, he gently adjusted it, making sure it was wrapped securely around her. YN barely noticed—she was used to it by now. Mingi’s careful attention to her every need had become second nature.

“YN,” Mingi’s voice cut through the soft hum of the crowd, “your scarf came loose again.”

YN sighed, her breath visible in the cold air, and shifted closer to him, her cheek grazing his coat as she stood slightly slouched against his side. She had grown used to his hovering, his need to ensure she was always warm and taken care of. It wasn’t annoying to her—it felt like normal.

“I’m fine,” she mumbled, her voice muffled by the cold air, but she made no move to pull away from him. She liked the way Mingi was always there, always making sure she was safe and comfortable.

Mingi didn’t argue. He simply adjusted the scarf one more time, then slipped a small heat pack into her hands, holding one against her ear, knowing how much she hated the cold seeping into her sensitive skin. He didn’t even ask if she was okay. He just knew.

YN clutched the heat pack with both hands, pressing it against her ear, and looked up at him, offering a small, thankful smile. There was no need for words—Mingi's actions spoke for him. She wasn’t bothered by the constant attention, the way he fussed over her in the cold. To YN, it was just how things had always been, and she couldn’t imagine a winter night without Mingi there, making sure she was taken care of.

She let out a soft breath and leaned against his side, her body instinctively seeking the warmth he always provided. Mingi didn’t pull away. In fact, he wrapped his arm around her, pulling her a little closer to shield her from the wind.

To the royal family, the people on the balcony, and the watching crowd, this was simply the expected sight—the princess, calm and composed, standing with her ever-vigilant bodyguard. But to YN, this was the norm. It wasn’t a chore or anything unusual. It was Mingi. Her best friend. Her protector. And for the first time, with the wind biting at her skin, she leaned into him even more, grateful for the comfort that only he could give.

The next morning, as YN sat in the grand dining room with her family, sipping on her warm tea, the morning papers were spread across the table. She glanced lazily at the headlines, her fingers tracing the rim of her cup absentmindedly. As usual, there was a flurry of royal gossip, but one headline caught her eye.

"Princess YN and Bodyguard Mingi: A Winter Night of Comfort and Protection"

She frowned, her brow furrowing as she skimmed through the article. Pictures of her and Mingi on the balcony the night before had been plastered all over the page—images of her clinging to his side, the heat packs in her hands, and Mingi adjusting her scarf. It was clear the media had turned their attention to their every move, almost as if they were trying to capture some deeper meaning behind their closeness.

“Why are they so obsessed with me?” YN asked, looking up at Mingi, who was quietly standing beside her, ever-watchful.

Mingi glanced at the newspaper but said nothing, instead focusing on adjusting the setting of her teacup. He knew what was coming.

“Well?” she pressed, looking up at him with wide, curious eyes. "I mean, it’s not like I did anything special. It’s just cold, and you were just… looking out for me.”

Mingi smiled softly, his expression gentle as he gave her a small nod. “You’re not just anyone, YN.”

She blinked, still not fully understanding. “But why? I’m just me.”

“That’s just it,” he said, kneeling beside her so they were eye-level. “You are a princess. People look up to you. They admire you for who you are, for everything you represent.”

YN’s brows furrowed even deeper, and she leaned back in her chair, trying to wrap her head around his words. She was so used to the quiet normalcy of her life that she had never truly realized how the world saw her.

She mumbled softly, tracing a line in the condensation on her teacup. “I don’t want all this attention. It feels so… weird.”

Mingi chuckled softly, his tone warm but reassuring. “It can be a lot, yes. But that’s just the way it is when you’re born into the royal family. You’re not just living for yourself. Your actions, your presence, it matters to people. They care about you because they see you as someone who represents the country, its hopes, its dreams.”

YN blinked, trying to absorb his explanation. “So it’s not because I’m cute or something?” she asked, her lips curling into a small, playful smile.

Mingi chuckled, shaking his head. “Of course, you’re cute. But it’s more than that. You’re the princess. The future of this kingdom.”

YN paused, staring down at her tea. She didn’t fully understand all of it, but there was something about the way Mingi explained it that made her feel both strange and important.

“You always say things that sound so serious,” she muttered, not quite grasping the weight of what he meant.

Mingi smiled at her, knowing how young and innocent her thoughts still were despite her royal title. “You don’t have to understand everything now. Just know that you’re more than you think you are. And that’s why people are watching.”

YN let out a sigh, her head drooping as she thought about it. “I guess I’ll have to get used to it, huh?”

Mingi nodded, giving her a light pat on the back. “You’ll get the hang of it.”

And even though she didn’t fully grasp the complexities of her status, YN knew that one thing would never change: Mingi would always be there by her side, keeping things normal, keeping things grounded—just like a friend.

A few days after the whole winter gala incident, YN and Mingi found themselves attending a royal charity dinner, an event full of formalities and stiff faces. YN, however, wasn’t one to enjoy the seriousness of these events. Her mind often wandered, especially when the speeches began. That evening, as she sat next to Mingi, her attention started to drift.

At first, she tried to occupy herself with her phone under the table, but her restless fingers quickly grew bored. She glanced over at Mingi, who was dutifully standing beside her, observing the guests with his usual focused expression.

“Hey, Mingi,” she whispered, poking him lightly in the ribs. “Do you think the soup is too hot? Or do you think they put something weird in it?”

Mingi glanced at her, raising an eyebrow. “What do you mean by ‘weird’?”

“Like… I don’t know,” she said, wrinkling her nose. “What if they secretly put... chocolate in it?”

Mingi chuckled, clearly amused by the absurdity of her thoughts. “YN, don’t be silly. Chocolate in soup is—”

But before he could finish, YN's mischievous grin appeared. She leaned over toward him and whispered in a stage whisper, “What if we just sneak a taste? You know, just to see if it’s chocolate or not.”

Mingi looked at her in disbelief. “YN—no, we’re not sneaking food under the table.”

But that was exactly what she was about to do. Without further hesitation, YN grabbed her spoon from the table and casually dipped it into the bowl of soup, all while trying to act as if she were merely adjusting it. The only problem was, she hadn’t quite thought it through. As she tried to raise the spoon to her lips, she accidentally splashed some of the soup onto her dress.

“Oops,” she muttered, trying to cover the small spill by quickly wiping it with her napkin.

Mingi, ever the protector, quickly leaned in to help, but the moment he did, he accidentally knocked his own drink—an expensive glass of red wine—right onto YN’s lap.

“Ah! Mingi!” she yelped, wide-eyed. The wine spread across her dress in an instant.

The room went silent for a moment, and YN couldn’t help but burst out laughing. “Oh my god, what did you do? You just exploded my lap with wine!”

Mingi looked horrified, his face flushed. “I’m so sorry, Princess, I didn’t—”

“Don’t worry,” she interrupted, still giggling. “At least the wine looks kind of fancy, right?”

Mingi quickly grabbed some napkins and tried to dab away the mess, but YN was now laughing so hard that she could hardly keep her composure.

“What’s going on over there?” someone whispered nearby.

“Oh, nothing,” YN said between fits of laughter. “Just Mingi trying to drown me in wine and soup.”

Mingi shot her an exasperated look, but even he couldn’t hold back a smile. “You’re impossible.”

The rest of the evening went on with everyone around them trying hard not to giggle at the mess they had unintentionally made. And though YN’s dress was ruined, it was just another one of those funny moments that felt normal between the two of them—a princess and her overprotective bodyguard, who never seemed to do anything quite by the book.

One afternoon, as YN lounged lazily in the palace, scrolling through her phone, she noticed Mingi, who had just returned from his usual workout. The sight of him, all flushed from his session and wiping sweat from his forehead, made her pause mid-scroll.

Her mind, never short of strange ideas, suddenly lit up with a random, ridiculous thought.

What if... she mused, a mischievous glint appearing in her eyes. What if I swing from his biceps?

Without a second thought, she stood up and walked casually toward the workout area where Mingi was cooling down with some stretches. His attention was focused entirely on his breathing, unaware that YN was about to disrupt his hard-earned relaxation.

“Mingi,” she said in the sweetest tone she could muster, stepping into his personal space, “I’ve been thinking.”

Mingi, still slightly out of breath, raised an eyebrow, giving her a suspicious look. “Uh-oh. That’s never good.”

“No, no,” she said, holding up her hands in mock innocence. “It’s a good thought. A very good one.”

He groaned. “What are you plotting now, YN?”

She grinned widely, moving closer and without warning, gently tugging on his arm. “I want to swing from your biceps.”

There was a long pause, and Mingi blinked in disbelief. “What?”

“You heard me,” YN said with a shrug, grinning even more mischievously.

“Do you want me to install a swing in the garden for you?” Mingi asked hesitantly.

“No! I’ve seen you working out so hard, and I’m curious. You look strong enough. Come on, just once. Let me swing from your biceps.”

Mingi, still processing what she said, stared at her for a moment. Then, without much else to do, he rolled his eyes and sighed, but there was a small smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “You know, this is the weirdest request you’ve ever made.”

“I know, right?” YN said, bouncing on her feet in excitement. “But come on, you owe me for making me stay in all these boring royal events.”

Mingi could only shake his head in disbelief, giving in because he knew YN was never going to let it go. “Fine, fine. But if you hurt yourself, I’m not responsible.”

“Deal!” she said, her voice full of joy.

With one smooth motion, she jumped toward him, wrapping her arms around his thick bicep. He flexed slightly, just enough to lift her off the ground, and YN squealed in delight as she swung from his arm like a monkey.

“See? This is fun!” she exclaimed, giggling wildly.

Mingi stood there, still holding her with a mixture of amusement and disbelief. “You are ridiculous.”

“I know,” YN grinned, her legs swinging back and forth. “But it’s a good kind of ridiculous, don’t you think?”

“You’re lucky I work out so much,” Mingi muttered, though there was affection in his voice.

“Thank you!” she laughed, then swung once more before jumping down. “This was exactly what I needed.”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re impossible.”

But YN didn’t mind. She was already back to lounging, her weird request fulfilled. Mingi might have had his personal workout time invaded, but in that moment, he couldn’t help but smile at how his friendship with YN always kept things unpredictable—and oddly fun.

It was a sunny afternoon, and YN was feeling particularly adventurous—or rather, particularly bored. Mingi had been called to attend a brief meeting with the palace security staff, leaving her to her own devices. Normally, this wouldn’t be an issue, but YN being YN, boredom wasn’t something she handled gracefully.

She decided to take matters into her own hands.

“I don’t need Mingi for everything,” she muttered under her breath, determined to prove that she could function just fine on her own. “How hard can it be to make a cup of tea or something?”

She strolled into the palace kitchen, glancing around at the unfamiliar appliances and shiny surfaces. She had seen Mingi brew tea for her countless times before—it looked easy enough. She grabbed a kettle, filled it with water, and placed it on the stove. With a smug grin, she flicked the stove on and waited.

Moments later, the kettle started whistling, and YN panicked. “Oh no, it’s screaming at me!” she yelled, fumbling with the knobs. Instead of turning the stove off, she accidentally turned it higher. The whistle got louder, and in her panic, she grabbed the kettle with her bare hands.

“HOT! HOT! HOT!” she shrieked, flailing her hands and dropping the kettle back onto the stove with a loud clang.

Hearing the commotion, several staff members rushed into the kitchen, only to find the princess standing there, her cheeks flushed, holding her now slightly red hands.

“Your Highness, are you alright?” one of them asked, clearly concerned.

“I’m fine,” YN grumbled, glaring at the offending kettle. “This thing just hates me.”

Before the staff could offer assistance, the door to the kitchen burst open, and in strode Mingi, looking mildly out of breath and thoroughly unimpressed.

“What is going on here?” he asked, his voice low and calm, but his eyes scanning her for injuries.

YN froze, caught red-handed—literally. “Nothing,” she said quickly, hiding her hands behind her back.

Mingi crossed his arms, raising an eyebrow. “Nothing? Because it doesn’t sound like nothing. It sounds like someone decided to play chef without supervision.”

“I was just trying to make tea,” she muttered, pouting. “How hard can it be? You do it all the time.”

Mingi sighed, stepping closer and gently pulling her hands into view. He inspected her reddened palms, his frown deepening. “You burned yourself.”

“It’s just a tiny burn,” she protested.

Without a word, Mingi grabbed a small first-aid kit from the counter, pulled her to a nearby chair, and sat her down. As he carefully applied some ointment to her hands, YN watched him silently, feeling both guilty and oddly comforted.

“You’re not allowed in the kitchen alone anymore,” Mingi said firmly, wrapping a bandage around her hand.

“But I was just trying to—”

“YN,” he interrupted, looking her straight in the eye. “You are truly hopeless without me.”

She opened her mouth to argue but then closed it again, realizing he wasn’t wrong. “Fine,” she muttered, leaning her head on his shoulder dramatically. “I guess I do need you for everything.”

Mingi chuckled softly, his expression softening. “That’s what I’m here for.”

From then on, YN stayed far away from the kitchen—unless Mingi was there to supervise. And though she occasionally teased him for being overprotective, deep down, she knew she wouldn’t have it any other way.

It was a chilly, overcast morning, the kind where the sky hung low and gray, promising rain at any moment. YN sat with her group of friends in the school common area, bundled up in her scarf and coat. The conversation drifted from homework to weekend plans, and finally, as it often did, to crushes and dream weddings.

“I think I’d want someone who’s athletic,” one friend said, her cheeks pink as she laughed.

“Yeah, but he also has to be super smart,” another added.

“What about you, YN?” one of them asked, leaning in with a teasing grin. “You never talk about this stuff. Who’s your dream guy?”

YN blinked, caught off guard by the question. Normally, she’d deflect with a joke or tease them back, but today, she hesitated.

Her friends stared at her expectantly, but instead of conjuring up a romantic fantasy, her mind went somewhere else entirely—to Mingi.

She thought of how he always stood by her, carrying her heavy school bags without complaint. How he remembered to pack her favorite snacks on long days and made sure she had an umbrella when the sky threatened rain, just like today. How his steady, quiet presence had been the one constant in her life for as long as she could remember.

But then, like a sudden gust of wind cutting through the chill, another thought hit her: One day, I’ll have to leave him behind.

Her stomach twisted. She wasn’t like her friends, free to imagine marrying their crushes or choosing their own futures. She was a princess, bound by duty. One day, she’d be expected to marry someone suitable—a prince or nobleman chosen by her family, someone who fit the royal image. And Mingi… Mingi would remain as he was, her protector, her shadow. But never more.

The thought felt like a weight pressing down on her chest, and she didn’t know why it hurt so much.

“YN? Hellooo?” her friend waved a hand in front of her face, snapping her out of her daze.

“Huh? Oh, sorry,” YN mumbled, forcing a small smile. “I was just… thinking.”

Her friends exchanged amused looks, laughing lightly. “Thinking about your crush, huh?” one teased.

“Something like that,” YN muttered, though her heart wasn’t in it. She laughed along with them, but the unease in her chest lingered for the rest of the day.

The school bell rang, signaling the end of the day, and YN packed her things slowly, her thoughts still clouded from the earlier conversation with her friends. The idea of leaving Mingi someday had weighed heavily on her throughout the day, and she couldn’t shake it.

As she exited the school building, there he was, as always—Mingi. He leaned casually against the sleek black car, dressed in his usual suit, an umbrella in hand just in case it rained again. His watchful eyes immediately softened when they met hers, and he straightened up, opening the car door for her.

“Rough day?” he asked, noticing the faint frown on her face as she approached.

YN didn’t respond immediately. Instead, she stood there for a moment, looking at him, her thoughts racing. She thought about how he was always there, waiting for her, protecting her, ensuring she never had to worry about anything. And the idea of losing that—of losing him—was unbearable.

“Mingi,” she said suddenly, her voice firm but her eyes filled with emotion.

He blinked, surprised by her tone. “Yes?”

“I’ve decided,” she said, stepping closer to him, her hands clutching the straps of her backpack. “I’m not leaving you. Ever.”

Mingi tilted his head, confused by her sudden declaration. “What are you talking about?”

“I mean it,” she continued, her words tumbling out impulsively. “If I have to marry someone, it’ll be you.”

There was a brief, stunned silence as Mingi processed her words. His eyes widened slightly, and for the first time in a long while, he looked genuinely flustered.

“YN,” he started, his voice gentle but firm, “you can’t just—”

“I’m serious!” she interrupted, her cheeks flushing but her gaze unwavering. “Why should I marry some random prince or noble when you’re the one who’s always been there for me? You’re the one who takes care of me, who knows me better than anyone else. Who else would I want by my side?”

Mingi exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck as he tried to find the right words. He crouched slightly so they were at eye level, his expression softening.

“YN,” he said carefully, “I’ve been by your side since you were a kid. My job is to protect you and make sure you’re safe. That’s what I’m here for. But marrying me?” He shook his head lightly, a small smile tugging at his lips. “That’s not how it works.”

“But why not?” she pressed, her voice quieter now but still determined. “I don’t care about what’s ‘supposed’ to happen. I just… I don’t want to lose you, Mingi.”

His expression softened even more, and he placed a hand gently on her shoulder. “You’re not going to lose me,” he said firmly. “No matter what happens, I’ll always be here. That’s a promise, remember?”

YN bit her lip, her shoulders relaxing slightly at his reassurance. “You better mean it,” she muttered, her cheeks still pink.

“I do,” he said with a quiet chuckle, straightening up and opening the car door again. “Now, come on. Let’s get you home before you decide to propose to me in front of the whole school.”

She let out a small laugh, climbing into the car, her heart feeling a little lighter. As they drove away, YN glanced at Mingi through the rearview mirror, her mind still replaying their conversation.

That evening, after they arrived back at the palace, YN couldn’t keep the thoughts swirling in her head any longer. As soon as dinner was over, she excused herself and marched straight to her father’s study.

The king was sitting at his large oak desk, reading through a stack of documents when she entered without knocking—a habit he often teased her about but secretly adored. Her mother, the queen, was seated on the nearby couch, sipping tea as she reviewed her own set of papers. Both of them looked up in surprise when YN stood before them, her face set with determination.

“Father, Mother,” she started, her voice steady despite the nerves fluttering in her chest, “I need to talk to you about something important.”

The king raised an eyebrow, setting down his pen. “What is it, my dear? You look serious.”

“I’ve been thinking about the future,” she said, clasping her hands together. “About how one day, I’ll have to marry someone. But I don’t want to marry some stranger or someone chosen just because of their title. I want… I want Mingi.”

The room went silent, the words hanging heavy in the air.

The queen blinked, clearly taken aback. “Mingi? As in your bodyguard?”

YN nodded firmly. “Yes. He’s been there for me my whole life. He’s the one who truly knows me, who understands me. I don’t see why I have to marry someone else just because it’s tradition. It’s not fair.”

The king leaned back in his chair, his expression thoughtful but hesitant. “YN, you know we’ve always respected your opinions and wishes. But this… This isn’t something we can decide so easily. Mingi is—”

“—not a royal,” the queen finished gently, though her tone carried a note of concern.

“I don’t care about that!” YN interrupted, her voice rising slightly. “Why does it matter? Times have changed, haven’t they? People don’t care about traditions as much as they used to. They care about love and happiness. And I know what I want.”

The king exchanged a glance with the queen, both of them clearly unsure how to respond.

It was then that the door opened, and Yeosang stepped in, his brows furrowed as he looked between his parents and YN. “What’s going on?” he asked, sensing the tension in the room.

“She wants to marry Mingi,” the queen explained, her voice laced with a mix of disbelief and worry.

Yeosang’s eyebrows shot up, and then, much to everyone’s surprise, he smiled slightly. “Well, why not?”

“Yeosang!” the queen said, shocked by his response.

“Mother, Father,” Yeosang said calmly, stepping closer, “it’s not the old days anymore. Things are different now. People won’t revolt just because the princess marries someone who isn’t royal. In fact, they’ll probably love it. You’ve seen how the media adores her bond with Mingi. They’d see it as proof that she’s grounded, that she cares about real connections instead of outdated customs.”

The king frowned, clearly conflicted. “It’s not just about the public, Yeosang. It’s about the responsibility, the image, the—”

“The happiness of your daughter,” Yeosang interrupted gently but firmly. “Shouldn’t that come first?”

YN looked at her brother, her eyes wide with gratitude. She hadn’t expected him to stand up for her so strongly, and it gave her a surge of hope.

The queen sighed, looking at her husband. “He’s not wrong, you know. But… it’s still hard to let go of traditions we’ve followed for so long.”

The king rubbed his temples, clearly torn. After a long pause, he looked at YN. “This isn’t a decision we can make overnight. But… if this is truly what you want, we’ll consider it. Just give us some time.”

It wasn’t a definitive yes, but it wasn’t a no either. YN’s heart swelled with a mix of relief and hope.

“Thank you,” she said softly, bowing slightly before leaving the room.

As YN left the study, her thoughts still buzzing with hope and relief, she heard familiar footsteps behind her. She turned to see Yeosang following her down the grand hallway, his hands casually tucked into his pockets.

“What?” she asked, stopping in her tracks and raising an eyebrow at him.

Yeosang sighed, motioning for her to keep walking as he fell into step beside her. “I need to talk to you,” he said, his tone calm but firm.

She rolled her eyes. “If you’re going to tell me I’m being ridiculous, don’t bother. You already supported me in front of Mother and Father.”

“I did,” Yeosang agreed, glancing at her. “But only because I’m tired of those outdated customs, too. And because, if anyone deserves you, it’s Mingi. He’s practically perfect for you.”

YN blinked in surprise at his honesty, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Really? You think so?”

“Yes, I do,” he admitted with a shrug. “He’s loyal, reliable, and has been by your side for years. I know he’d do anything to keep you safe and happy. That’s the kind of person you need in your life.”

Her smile grew, but before she could thank him, he stopped walking and turned to face her, his expression more serious now.

“But, YN,” he said firmly, “you’re still too young to make decisions like this.”

Her smile faltered. “What do you mean? I know what I want.”

“You think you do,” he replied, his tone gentle but unyielding. “But you’re only a teenager. Marriage isn’t just about liking someone or thinking they’re a good person. It’s a huge commitment, and it comes with responsibilities you can’t even imagine right now.”

“I’m not saying I want to marry him tomorrow,” she argued, crossing her arms. “I’m just saying that when the time comes, it should be my choice. And I chose Mingi.”

Yeosang sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Look, I get it. You’ve grown up with him. He’s been like your rock, your anchor. It makes sense that you’d feel this way. But you need to take a step back and really think about what you want in life—not just right now, but years from now.”

YN frowned, her arms dropping to her sides. “You don’t think I’m serious?”

“I think you’re serious,” he said honestly. “And I think your feelings are valid. But feelings change, YN. And you’ve got so much time ahead of you to figure out what you really want. All I’m saying is, don’t rush into something just because it feels right now.”

She looked down at the floor, his words sinking in. As much as she hated to admit it, Yeosang had a point. She was still young, and the future felt like a vast, uncharted sea.

“I just… I don’t want to lose him,” she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

“You won’t,” Yeosang reassured her, placing a hand on her shoulder. “Mingi’s not going anywhere. You’ve got time, YN. Don’t let fear make you rush into a decision. Trust that the right moment will come when it’s meant to.”

She nodded slowly, her gaze still fixed on the floor. “Thanks, Yeosang. I… I’ll think about what you said.”

He smiled faintly, giving her shoulder a gentle squeeze. “That’s all I ask. Now, go get some rest. You’ve caused enough chaos for one day.”

She laughed lightly, the weight on her chest lifting just a little. As she walked away, she couldn’t help but feel grateful for her brother’s honesty and support. Even if she didn’t have all the answers yet, she knew she had time—and the people who cared about her to guide her along the way.

The sound of tennis balls being hit back and forth echoed through the royal court the next morning. Yeosang and Mingi were engaged in a competitive match, their banter as sharp as their serves. Despite the casual atmosphere, Mingi could sense there was something on Yeosang’s mind.

“Nice shot,” Yeosang said as Mingi delivered a powerful forehand that he barely managed to return.

“You’re getting slow, Yeosang,” Mingi teased, smirking as he prepared for the next serve.

“Not slow,” Yeosang retorted, adjusting his stance. “Just distracted.”

Mingi raised an eyebrow but said nothing, focusing on his serve. He sent the ball flying across the court, and Yeosang returned it with surprising force. The rally continued for a while before Yeosang finally missed, and Mingi stepped forward, spinning his racket casually.

“All right,” Mingi said, tilting his head. “What’s on your mind?”

Yeosang sighed, walking to the side to grab his water bottle. “It’s YN,” he said simply.

Mingi tensed slightly but kept his expression neutral. “What about her?”

Yeosang took a sip of water, then leaned against the net, looking directly at his friend. “She told me last night that she doesn’t want to marry anyone but you.”

Mingi froze for a split second before letting out a quiet sigh. “I know,” he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “She told me the same thing yesterday.”

Yeosang raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “And?”

“And… I told her that’s not how it works,” Mingi said firmly, his voice calm but resolute. “She’s still young. She doesn’t fully understand what she’s saying. It’s just… attachment. She’s known me her whole life, so she thinks I’m the answer to everything.”

Yeosang studied him for a moment, his expression unreadable. “You’re probably right,” he said eventually, setting his bottle down. “But that doesn’t change the fact that she’s serious about how she feels.”

Mingi sighed again, sitting on the bench and resting his elbows on his knees. “I know. And that’s what worries me. I don’t want her to make decisions she might regret later. She’s a princess, Yeosang. Her life is already so complicated, and she deserves better than—”

“Don’t finish that sentence,” Yeosang interrupted, walking over to stand in front of him. “If you’re about to say she deserves better than you, don’t. Because it’s not true.”

Mingi blinked, clearly taken aback. “Yeosang, I’m just her bodyguard. You really think—”

“I think you’re one of the best people I’ve ever met,” Yeosang said firmly, crossing his arms. “And I think my sister deserves someone who will treat her with the care and respect you’ve shown her every single day of her life. Do I think she’s too young to be thinking about marriage? Yes. But do I think you’re a bad choice? Absolutely not.”

Mingi stared at him, stunned into silence.

Yeosang smirked, amused by his friend’s rare speechlessness. “Honestly, I expected you to freak out more when I brought this up. But it seems like you’ve already thought this through.”

“I have,” Mingi admitted quietly. “I’ve been thinking about it ever since she first mentioned it. I just… I don’t want to cross any lines. My job is to protect her, not—”

“Not fall in love with her?” Yeosang finished, his tone teasing but not unkind.

Mingi’s eyes widened slightly, and he looked away, unsure how to respond.

Yeosang chuckled, clapping him on the shoulder. “Relax, Mingi. I’m not here to tell you to stay away from her. If anything, I’m telling you the opposite. Just… don’t rush anything. Let her grow up, figure things out for herself. If this is meant to be, it’ll happen in time.”

Mingi looked up at him, his expression softening. “You really mean that?”

“I do,” Yeosang said with a small smile. “You’re my friend, Mingi. And more importantly, you’re someone I trust. I know you’ll do what’s best for her.”

Mingi nodded, his chest feeling both lighter and heavier at the same time. “Thanks, Yeosang.”

“Don’t thank me yet,” Yeosang said with a smirk, grabbing his racket. “Now, let’s finish this game. I’m not letting you win just because we had a heartfelt moment.”

Mingi laughed, standing up and grabbing his racket. “We’ll see about that.”

As they returned to the court, Mingi couldn’t help but feel a renewed sense of responsibility. Whatever the future held, he would make sure YN was happy—whether that meant staying by her side as her bodyguard or something more. For now, he’d take it one day at a time.

Months passed, and YN’s relentless determination, along with Yeosang’s support, slowly melted her parents’ hesitation. It wasn’t an easy road, but the Kang family eventually came to terms with the idea. The modern world was changing, and so were the rules of royalty. What mattered most was YN’s happiness, and it was clear that her bond with Mingi was unbreakable.

One crisp autumn morning, YN was called into the royal study. Her parents were there, seated at the same desk where she had once pleaded her case. Yeosang stood beside them, a small smile tugging at his lips.

“We’ve discussed it,” the king began, his tone gentle but formal. “And we’ve decided that if this is truly what you want, YN, we will support your choice.”

For a moment, she just stared at them, her mind struggling to process the words. Then, as the realization hit her, her face lit up with pure, uncontainable joy. “Really?” she exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement.

The queen smiled softly. “Yes, really. We only want you to be happy.”

Before they could say anything else, YN bolted out of the room, her heart racing as she ran through the palace halls. She knew exactly where to find Mingi—in the training grounds, where he often started his mornings.

As she burst into the training yard, Mingi was mid-swing, sparring with another guard. He paused when he saw her, his brow furrowing in concern. “Princess? What’s wrong?”

She didn’t answer right away, instead running straight to him and grabbing his hands. Her grin was so wide it almost hurt, and her eyes sparkled with excitement. “They said yes!” she blurted out.

Mingi blinked, caught off guard. “What?”

“My parents! They said yes!” she repeated, practically bouncing on her feet. “They’re okay with it—with us! You don’t have to just be my bodyguard anymore. We can actually—”

Her words were cut off as Mingi let out a soft laugh, his shoulders relaxing as relief and happiness washed over him. “They really said that?”

“Yes!” she exclaimed, squeezing his hands tightly. “We don’t have to hide how we feel, or worry about traditions, or anything. They’re okay with it!”

Mingi smiled down at her, his heart swelling with emotions he could barely put into words. “I’m happy for you, YN. For us.”

She laughed, the sound bright and carefree. “You’re happy? Mingi, I’m the happiest person alive right now! I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy!”

He chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re something else, Princess.”

“Of course I am,” she said playfully, sticking her tongue out at him. “Now come on, we have to celebrate! Ice cream, movies, anything you want—just name it!”

Mingi laughed again, letting her excitement wash over him. “Whatever you want, YN. Today’s your day.”

As they walked back toward the palace, YN chattering excitedly about all the plans she wanted to make, Mingi couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude. He’d always been content just being her protector, her shadow. But now, as he looked at her radiant smile and heard her joyful laughter, he realized that being by her side in this new way was more than he’d ever dreamed of.

For YN, the future felt brighter than ever. And for Mingi, there was no place he’d rather be than right there beside her, no matter what came next.

Taglist: @jonghosbrainrot

[thesirencult]

Channeled Letter From Your FS

reading by @thesirencult

Pile 1

I'm not your regular cup of tea. I'm strong, forceful and focused on going after what I want and what I want right now is you. From the first moment I will lay my eyes on you it's game on. I will approach you boldly, you will be taken aback but then you will love the thrill of the chase. My, oh, my! You will be a hard catch, but I don't care, I will pursue you in a way no one else ever has. I'm not pursuing you tirelessly or trying to win you because of ego issues, but because even if I'm not sure about myself, I'm sure about you.

You are so amazing and so worthy of love that I will get over my fears and anxieties just to be with you. Love takes courage and risk and I have nothing but that! I hope that is enough for you, in the long run.

I'm not an "one hit wonder" though! I have stamina and will never let you down my love. I know that at first you will not feel the same about me, but I will win you over once you realize I'm not the tyoe of person to hit and dismiss, pardon me!

In time, I will come to know that you were scared to let me in because no one ever showed you unconditional love and gave you without expecting anything in return. "You are the breath that I breath, you are my one lucky star..."

I'm the one who does what needs to be done. I'm a go-getter who goes after their goals. An endless flame burns within me prompting me to do my best and to take risks. I charge full steam ahead and I'm very passionate. You have not met me yet cause I'm doing "side quests" to grow and mature, so I will be ready for you.

Take care princess!

Pile 2

I'm not the best at expressing my feelings through words, although in our relationship, I will do my best to show you have precious you are to me, words will never feel enough to convey the feelings.

I'll start with this one though: You were my last hope. Your love broke all my defenses and woke me up from my slumber. How could I ever live my life thinking that I was okay being by myself, all alone in the cold embrace of the shadows while you were right there, so close to me, warmth radiating off your skin and warming up my heart. "One last time..." I thought. "I'm willing to risk it all again for her. It will either be my biggest heartbreak or the love of a million lifetimes."

You found me while I was trying to rebuild myself and mend my wounds. In reality, I healed more by your side than I coukd have ever healed on my own. You cultivated a safe space for me to open up and share my inner world with you. You made me the man I'm now.

I trusted my intuition and went after you. I never doubted our connection, just the nature of it. Were we better off as friends? But look at us, we are best friends, lovers, family and soulmates! I risked losing you to gain more of you, although, more is never enough. You consume my thoughts each and every day. I smile on my own at work and forget what I was doing while I think about you and your smile and your voice and your sweet words and kisses. This has been going on for a while, I must admit... It has been happening since our first interactions. I wanted more and more of you, begging the Universe to let us live out our fairytale. The moment I surrendered to your whims and love was the moment I freed myself from the prison of loneliness.

"You did your best!" you always tell me with a smile and I agree because you make it sound like it's not that big of a deal. That's what you said when I told you I couldn't help but fall in love with you and indeed, I did my best, the best I could have done. You outsmarted your opponent with your sweetness and I came bare to a battle I should have come prepared. I don't care though. I love the way you think and how smart you are. I love how you never let anyone or anything get between us and how your smile lights up a room. I love the way your eyes sparkle when you are thinking of something naughty or when you are trying to seduce me and influence my thoughts. I always let you win, cause I got the best prize once and I don't need any more victories.

My prize is sitting on the couch right now, wrapped up in a blanket, pregnant and with a dog lazily sleeping by her feet. Our friends just left from the dinner we held in the house that we built. A house that will host many more oarties and celebrations, but also many more quiet nights that we will be slow dancing in the kitchen to oldies playing in the background. I wish everyone got to experience that type of love just for a moment, they would never doubt this magical force exists and I'm lucky, because my wife is full of it.

Thank you for everything my love. I'll do my best!

Yours forever and always and for each lifetime, x.

[emeritusemeritus]

Ooo longtime no talk!! If it’s okay, can I please request a Fred x fem!muggle!reader where they are married and she’s pregnant with a little girl, and Fred is such a loving and protective Husband and future father (it honestly makes her cry because she loves him sm and he’s so sweet) and they go to the Burrow to stay for the weekend with the whole family. Everyone is all doting on her, Molly loving taking care of her, everyone using magic to help her, and she bursts into tears right as Fred walks in the room (he’d so be like “why is my sweet wife crying??”) and it’s because she’s (alongside the pregnancy hormones) feeling kinda self conscious about being the only muggle in the family and worries she’s not enough🥺

Hi love!! So nice to hear from you again, I hope you’ve been well?! As always it would be my pleasure, I hope you enjoy! 🖤

Warnings: PregnantWife!Reader, mentions of pregnancy and brief sickness, feelings of inadequacy, tears, hormones. Pregnancy hormones are no joke. Sweet Fred.

Word Count: 1.9k

Song for writing: No Surprises by Radiohead.

Just The Muggle [Fred Weasley]

Logically, you knew that you were just feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, but that didn't stop you from breaking down in tears the minute you finally got a moment alone.

You couldn't fault a single thing that had happened that day, nor could you fault a single member of the family congregated downstairs but for some reason you still felt overwhelmingly sad. You were one of the lucky ones, a woman that had married into a wonderful family that were warm, welcoming and accepting. A large family, much larger than your own, all with their own distinctive personalities that slotted in perfectly to create a mosaic of life and laughter in the Weasley family.

Arthur was quiet but sweet, always pottering about or tinkering, inquisitive with his questions and always an active listener who had the best intentions. Molly was the ideal warm matriarch who seemed to never stop, always helping her family in some way or another. She was wickedly quick with her wit and almost omniscient, an inviting character that you wished to never see the bad side of. Percy and Bill were quiet in comparison to the other children whilst Charlie was the sensitive one, a little more relaxed in his approach to life. Audrey was shy and quiet but very nice and Fleur was charming yet fierce, which you loved about her. Ron was a grumbler, usually a little moody though his sweetness shone through, usually counteracted by Hermione who balanced out Ron perfectly. Ginny was the one you were perhaps the most fond of except George, her fearless determination was to be studied. Harry was nice too, though sometimes a little quiet around the larger group.

You loved George like your own brother, a virtue considering he was so often by Fred's side that any rift would have been detrimental to all the relationships involved. He was funny and kind, a little gentler than Fred but you loved him all the same.

Fred, your husband, was your perfect man. His sparkling eyes, freckled cheeks and fiery hair, not to mention his towering height and wide shoulders that could make your mouth water. He was the funniest person you'd ever met and you adored his mischievous side, though you had heard he'd mellowed in recent years.

All of them were perfect in their own ways, and then there was you. The muggle.

Getting married to Fred Weasley had been the best decision you had ever made. Sure you had your regular spats just like any other couple, a few crossed words and little digs every now and then but there was never a day that you weren't happy. You'd never doubted your love for him or your futures together, feeling with assured certainty that Fred was your end game. You'd live a life with Fred that couldn't be matched, filled with fun and laughter. You'd grow old together and cause havoc right up until your last breath, exactly the way life should be.  

It had been a shock finding out that the man you'd met had been a wizard, a very, very big shock. You'd assumed he was joking at first, knowing he was a natural prankster that had told you that he owned a joke shop with his brother. But it wasn't a joke and was very much real. Your world had opened up that day and though you had to live under the veil of secrecy, it was an incredible life to lead. At first it had been wondrous if not a little overwhelming, suddenly the idea that anything was possible and learning about everything that was so foreign to you. Sure some of your friends had married out of their culture and you'd watched as they blended their lives together and created a melting pot of language and culture at home. But this had always felt different, bigger somehow- special.

But you couldn't deny that surrounded by so many witches and wizards with incredible talents you would never be able to replicate, you felt completely inadequate to be in their lives.

Especially now you were pregnant.

Molly had been your biggest support, offering and insisting to help out wherever she could. They didn't have much in the way of money but that didn't stop her and Arthur from helping in ways that you hadn't even considered at first. Molly had taken it upon herself to knit your unborn daughter an entire wardrobe, specifically saving her last reel of golden thread to embroider her initial onto the clothes once her name had been chosen.

It was the little things you noticed the most, like always making sure you had somewhere comfy to sit, your cushion plumped for you, your random craving foods already stored in. Seeing Molly in this way made you realise just how alike her and Fred were in that way, the little acts of service showing their love when it didn't need to be verbalised. She'd given you tonics that were tried and tested in the family to help with your sickness when regular muggle medication couldn't help.

The magic was a big help of course. On the days when the pregnancy exhaustion set in and you could hardly make it through the day without a nap, Molly would be round straight away without question to help out. She never overstepped your boundaries, never pushed you and never overstayed her welcome. With a flick of her wrist, your house would be immediately tidied, with the pots in the sink beginning to wash themselves and an array of other magical help.

There was one undeniable question that had bothered you almost from the moment you found out you were pregnant. Would the baby be magical too?

Fred had told you about purebloods, half bloods and muggleborns a few times, mostly at the beginning of you finding out about the wizarding world. You'd met Hermione of course, a muggle born witch who was apparently brilliant, her childhood being based in the non-magic world not hindering her abilities at all. But you also remembered Fred mentioning something called 'squibs', which you believed to be people born to magical parents, one or both, without magical abilities.

Ironically, only after you were pregnant did you ever consider the fact that you might give birth to a child with no magical abilities despite your entire life having been without the knowledge of magic up until meeting Fred. Once your mind got ahold of this thought, it became consumed by it, your mind spiralling from your insecurities.

What if your daughter was born without magical abilities and was treated like an outsider for rest of her life? With a family like Fred's it would hardly be possible to hide the wizarding world from her, especially considering Fred's job. Their family was known for being pureblood, how could you have come and ruined that? Or what if your daughter was magical and grew to be embarrassed by a mother who couldn't perform the simplest of spells? What if she loved her dad more than you because he had special abilities that made him fun that you couldn't even dream of and you just became the boring muggle mum she tried to hide away? You couldn't fathom the hurt it would cause either way and yet your mind couldn't help but wander to these dark thoughts.

"Sweetheart, what is it?" You heard from the doorway, alerting you to Fred's presence. Apparently you'd been too consumed by your thoughts and your tears to realise he had entered. You were sat in his childhood bedroom, whether it was Fred or George's bed you didn't know, with tears still stream in down your face.

Fred immediately jumped into action, as he always did when he saw your tears. He closed the door behind him and took a seat on the bed beside you, reaching his arm around your shoulders to pull you into his body.

"What's made my sweet girl cry? If it's Ron he's dead." You can't help but let out a chuckle through the tears at his words, knowing he'd jump at the chance to mess with his younger brother even at hive age.

"No, it's no-one," you say, trying to reassure him whilst also trying to calm yourself down.

"Is it too much for you? We can go home, mum will understand."

"No, well yes but no," you say quietly, not wanting to hurt anyone's feelings by leaving when they had been nothing but accommodating for you. He stays quiet now, sensing that you would open up to him and you pause, trying to find the right words and hope that all your thoughts don't tumble out of you all together.

"I'm not magic," you say quietly, wiping your slightly puffy eyes on your sleeve as you fight to hold back more tears.

"Debatable but go on," he interjects, using your little inside of joke of you seducing him being magic to try and cheer you up. You simply nudge him gently, telling him to shut up.

"What if our daughter is magic and she's embarrassed by me?" You sniffle, averting your gaze from his as more tears threaten to spill from the weight of your words.

"Baby, there is nothing about you that could make our daughter be embarrassed. Maybe your singing could be improved but really that's-."

"Fred I'm serious," you say, annoyance spilling into your voice as you lose your temper with his attempts to joke. "What if she hates me because I can't do all the amazing things you can do? I can't magic up twinkling lights or make things walk up walls. You have this incredible ability that I'll never have, I'm just going to be her boring mum that holds her back, the reason she can never be a pure blood."

"First of all, how dare you talk about my wife like that, and secondly, there's not a way on this earth that could ever be true. You aren't magic no, but she'll have enough of that from us, imagine all the incredible things you can teach her that I never knew about. The things you've shown me, taught me, the movies and the music and everything else in between. She'll have the best of both worlds."

His words actually do work to make you feel better. You hadn't thought of it like that, that your role in all of this could be her little sanctuary away from the wizarding world.

"And what if she's a squib? What if she has no magic?" You say, heart breaking at the thought that your precious baby could ever be seen as an outcast. Your tears start anew, your shoulders involuntarily moving up and down with the force of your tears. Fred's hand reaches out to cup your chin, his fingers hooked underneath so he can gently raise your point of vision towards him.

"Then we will figure it out, but regardless she will be the most loved little squib anyone has ever known. She'll still have the best of both worlds and she'll be a tiny version of her mummy, exactly like I've always wanted."

[prlssprfctn]

I think the best way to implement (in a more canonical way) a LOA Jason without diminishing the relationship Damian has with his mom and his future relationships with the likes of Dick/Steph is to have it parallel Jason's relationship with Dick.

During his time as Robin, Jason and Dick consider each other as brothers (after Dick accepted him being Robin and giving Jason his approval). However, Dick does not spend a lot of time with him. He has his own life in college (or a cop) in an entirely different city, all while leading a group of vigilantes to fight crime. He gives Jason his number, saying he can call anytime, but that puts the onus on Jason, and frankly, he isn't the type to reach out for help, especially as there is little rapport between the two. And it's not exactly Dick's responsibility to be an older brother. He has no relation to the boy (technically not adopted yet) besides Bruce, who he isn't exactly happy with. He's also only ever been an only child and imagine telling an 18 year old to hang out with their new 13 year old brother, its not gonna happen. Jason's run as Robin is differentiated by just how lonely he was. He had no team with people his age to grow up with, and as his relationship deteriorated with Bruce, of course, he would cling to any relationship he could ergo running to find Sheila. Dick simply wasn't around, and the time they did spend together wasn't enough.

As for Jason's time in the LOA it's spent either catatonic or traveling in his training world tour. I'd envision it that Talia introduces the two of them and Damian starts off as indifferent (even more so if it's when he was catatonic), but Jason is much more hesitant. That is Bruce's son, his actual son. The similarities are obvious, and there's some resentment there, but at the same time it's his younger brother. Remembering back to how when be first met Dick he wanted his acceptance and for him to be his brother, to be there, he then tries to be what he wanted from Dick for Damian.

He brings back souvenirs from each place he visits. He tells stories about his time as Robin, fighting alongside Batman and the others. Any question Damian has is answered as he. They train together, and Jason would protect him at a moments notice. Over time, Damian warms up to him, accepting Jason as his brother. But the actual time together is short. Jason is always packed and ready to go to spend weeks at a time training. His main goal is to face Bruce and ask him why. Why is there another Robin? Why is the Joker alive? Why did he not love him enough to avenge him? And to do all that, he needs to be better than Batman. Thus, he continues to throw himself to teacher after teacher. Eventually, spending a year secluded with the All Caste before returning to Gotham, without much of a goodbye or promise to return.

He also isn't the emotional pillar Damian needs. Damian's character development is about moving away from his life as an assassin while Jason throws himself into it. He can't help him live a regular life when Jason didn't have one. Poor, homeless, to vigilante. Then dead, catatonic/comatose, and now murderer/anti-hero. He lost his own childhood and isn't in the state to guide Damian to his like Dick and Steph are.

Eventually, UTRH and Damian's arrival occur where Jason on the outskirts of his family sees how Dick has grown over the years and can actually step up as the older brother he needed and wanted to be. Of course, it's Dick, everyone's favorite, the golden boy, but only for everyone else. He looks at Dick with resentment and the others with envy. Why couldn't that be him? Why isn't he enough for anyone? For all he does and for all he feels, he keeps failing.

‐----‐---------

Well here it is my interpretation of Jason + Dick + Damian's relationship :)) I love them so much.

I also wanted to say thanks for this blog. If it wasn't obvious by how I write some of the recent longer angst/fluff posts are made by the same person and its a fun outlet for me to talk about this man I've become obsessed with.

I enjoy your interpretations and your own writing of Jason, which inspired me to put these thoughts to words. I always love reading what you have to say (both your own work and your responses to my asks) and this has become a fun outlet for me so thanks <3

this post is actually genius. i agree *so* much.

it is all fueled with the fact that Jason canonically yearned for being someone's big brother, taking care of kids so natural for him, but the situation with Damian is so different for many reasons, including Jason's own state at that moment. he tries so hard to become Damian's safe place, something he himself yearned at that age — but how one can become that if all he knows is ruination (of himself and his surroundings) and anger?

i think Jason eventually (starting with LoA and later on, after Damian joins the family, it becomes more prominent) settles down for the role of a quiet shadow protector for Damian. in LoA, he feels like he can try not only to protect Damian but also to connect with him. gifts, conversations, memories. but in Gotham, when he sees Damian getting his own place in the family, becoming closer to Dick, seeing him as someone so, so close, he minimises their contact (again, for many reasons) and ends up just becoming his shadow. he protects him quietly, from afar. he gives subtle hints to Bruce and Dick about Damian, things the boy would never tell aloud to others. he kills his enemies, helps him out from afar, but never actually gets closer; not anymore.

but is he still Damian's big brother? yeah, of course. i think Damian just has no idea how to communicate with him, especially considering that Jason himself is not cooperative unless something happens. perhaps Jason failed to become a brother he wanted to be for Damian (not for the lack of trying), but he is still his brother. and he can offer him something others do not necessarily can — full understanding. they are opposite sides of the coin, but they are still a one.

and i also wrote it once in another post here, but i feel like this summarises their struggle with being Bruce's sons, real ones, or not:

p.s: i love talking with you, too, omg. your asks are always so on point and interesting to discuss :3 i wouldn't mind if you gave yourself a short nickname/emoji to put it by the end of asks, so i could know that it is you, he-he.

[spacegyaru]

cw: reo mikage x sex worker! reader. all characters here are 21+. reader is 22 while reo is 26. reader is an orphan. there are mentions of dr*g use and debts. sex worker. strippers. clubs. there's also an eventual smut so minors, dni! i tried to depict the underground/world of sex work according to what i've seen in documentaries. i also tried my best to depict reo accurately but i might be somewhat ooc. also, i was listening to fine china and the other woman by lana del rey while writing this! 

masterlist

you were a fallen angel— someone who could never have salvation. you had already fallen in the depths of sin and could never be loved; that's what you've always thought— until you met reo mikage, the person who changed your perspective in love and life. 

you grew up as an orphan who was never adopted. you stayed in the shelter for all the years of your life. you never knew what it felt like to be chosen. you felt like the world hated you for giving you to two irresponsible parents.

when you turned 18, you left the orphanage because you were too old already. the caretakers think that you can start living by yourself and looking for a job. you were so excited to finally go to the outside world. but you realized that reality isn't what it seemed.

it wasn't all rainbows and skittles like what the TVs showed. it felt bitter. it felt very tiring. you worked tirelessly day and night. at morning, you worked as a hotel staff. at night, you worked as a bar waitress. with no degree, you could hardly ever find a proper job. it's as if the orphanage threw you in the pits of the hell by asking you to join the ‘real world’.

due to the hardships of living and providing for yourself, you resulted into borrowing from loan sharks and private loaning services. it was already too late when you realized how much you're drowning in debt.

your debt was so big that an illegal loanshark started to threaten you that if you weren't able to pay them at least monthly, they would let you experience hell. you were so scared to death.

and because of that, you were forced to work in this industry. it's a very tough and unsafe job, but it kept you fed. you were able to pay for your debt monthly while still living in a decent one bedroom apartment. it's cramped. but it's better than the space you had in the past.

the club that you worked for is called a strip club. you guys are just asked to entertain guests. but under the table, you would also offer other party favors. and with all honesty, you couldn't take this type of job so before you perform, you would take illeg*l dr*gs to maintain your sanity and efficiency. to bend your moral compass while doing this type of job.

that's how you met him— reo mikage. it turns out that he was a regular in this bar. and also a vip member. given that he is a ceo of a huge company, he goes there to drink and relieve his mind.

reo mikage, the ceo of mikage corp, is known to be more of a watcher and observer. he doesn't indulge in the party favors that the girls would offer. your co-worker said that one time, a girl tried to do offer her by touching his thigh and doing some sexual addvances. after that, he threatened to call the cops on her for soliciting such services. the girl got fired after that.

so nobody tries to offer him some other services. everyone acknowledged the fact that he is just a watcher. why would he sully his body and reputation by availing such services from a sex worker?

you've always seen him, but you never talked to him. until one day, you were asked to come to the vip lounge and perform on their table… privately. your co-worker said that it takes a lot to get his trust, but if he starts liking you, you're gonna get an insane amount of tip from him.

but unlike the usual, instead of asking you to perform a dance for them, they want you to sing. you were shocked by the sudden request but you did it. after three songs, instead of asking you to go, they wanted your company more. so you stayed and talked to them. it seemed like reo liked the way you carried yourself.

well, reo was with his two friends— a white-haired one named nagi, and a redhead named chigiri. they were both shy, but reo was much more of a chatterbox and didn't seem to mind showing that to you.

since then, reo became a regular. instead of asking you to dance naked for them, he would ask you to sing, then you would talk to him for a while after. you started to learning that reo is actually an heir of a huge company. when you asked him why he frequented on these places instead of hanging out with other women of his status, he just shrugged both his shoulders, saying he finds no excitement in entertaining them. unlike in this type of place, not a lot of people knew about him. he's just a normal guy who tips a lot if you make him happy.

reo’s his visits became more often, and during his visits, he would give you lots of gifts and tip you more than enough. one time, he brought you a limited-edition luxury bag. you were shy and was hesitant to accept it, but he insisted. he said that you were his favorite girl— you actually made sense whenever he talked to you. you felt like human rather than a sex bot. you would tell him what you think, and you had the power to comfort him with your words.

during those visits, you were slowly falling in love with him. reo even paid extra and requested for the owner to never let you cater to anyone. when you told him you did dr*gs so you could handle the type of job you have, he was desperate to give you the help you need. this made you very happy, and your feelings deepened for him.

one day, it was his 27th birthday. instead of going to the bar like the regular he is, he asked you to join him in his private jet going to germany. you were hesitant and shy at first but eventually, you agreed. you accommodated him during the trip. and everything was paid for by him.

the same day of his birthday, reo asked you to be his girlfriend. it was in a simple garden, but he asked for nice catering. there was an orchestra playing while both of you enjoyed some champagne and steak.

during that night, you spent the most amazing time of your life. while you worked as a prostitute, you always refused to kiss your client no matter how much they offer. but tonight, you gave your first kisses to reo mikage— even your first french kiss, and your first time of making love— not just having sex for money, but this time, you were handled with love and passion.

the queen treatment you received from him was out of this world, even after the romantic trip. you still worked at the bar, but only catered to him. all of a sudden, loansharks stopped threatening you. it turns out that reo paid for everything. you even got into an argument with him over it, but he said that he insisted because he loves you.

reo's love felt like heaven to someone like you. you were spoiled rotten, went to luxurious trips with him, were always given the most expensive luxury bags, and you never had to worry about the bills cuz he got everything in his hands. he promised to take you out of this type of life that you have— until eight months later, he disappeared.

for the first time, reo did not come to the bar without telling you. you texted and called, but he stopped responding. he was never like this. it seemed that he disappeared into thin air, and it was driving you crazy.

after two weeks of breaking down, your colleagues and friends from the club asked you to watched the news. you were wondering, what were they so hysterical about? when you opened the tv, you felt your heart shattered into pieces.

you saw reo once again— but this time, the glow in his eyes disappeared. he wasn't wearing the smile he always wore when both of you were together.

the news headlines said ‘son of mikage corp engagement to another heiress from a multi billionaire company'. the girl looked so happy, but reo looked very distant. it's as if he left his heart somewhere else.

you gasped and broke down in tears as you watched everything unfolded right before your eyes. just like how other men treated you in the past, you were just someone to pass time with. you were never a lover.

and now, you're left alone again, with those broken promises he gave you.

a/n: sorry guys another angst shfhfjsksks i cant stop thinking about this while listening to lana del rey. if lana del rey didn't play in my spotify, i wouldn't even bother continuing writing this 😭🙏

[storiesforallfandoms]

our own after party ~ damien haas

word count: 3258

request?: no

description: while everyone else is gone out drinking after vidcon, they decide to get to know each other alone

pairing: damien haas x female!reader

warnings: swearing, rpf

masterlist (one, two, three)

There was something about being a new Twitch streamer/YouTuber at your first VidCon that was just so surreal.

I could barely believe I had even gotten the invite, even though I had nearly a million subscribers on YouTube and a couple hundred thousand on Twitch. But then to actually attend the event and meet so many creators I had been a fan of for years made it feel all the more surreal. I felt more like a fangirl than some of the people who had come to meet me.

I had some time after my own meet and greet to wander the floor and mingle with other creators and fans, as well as to check out some of the booths and whatnot that VidCon was offering. I got to meet other creators like me who were just completely starstruck with being at the con as a featured creator, and some of the old school YouTubers we had all been watching for ages. But what really got me was when I ran into some of the cast members of Smosh.

Smosh was probably the first YouTube channel I had ever gotten into, way back when it was just Ian and Anthony lip syncing to the Pokémon theme song and making skits. As time went on, I went back and forth on how much I watched. At some point I remembered having gone a few years without watching a Smosh video and deciding to see what they were up to, only to find out that it was way more people than just Ian and Anthony now. I was shocked, but found myself growing attached to the new cast and became a regular viewer again.

When Courtney spotted me me first, and knew my streaming name because they were a fan, I found it incredibly hard to keep my cool. I felt like i was living a dream that I never wanted to wake up from.

“Come, meet everyone!” they insisted, pulling me towards the group of YouTubers I had been watching for years. “Shayne! Look who I met!”

Shayne seemed to recognize me immediately as well, which made sense if Courtney watched me as frequently as they were saying. Didn’t make Shayne’s recognition any less exciting for me.

Courtney brought me around, introducing me to the faces I already knew. They were all so kind and welcoming, acting exactly as they did on camera. It was the best outcome when it came to meeting your heroes.

“What do you stream?” Angela asked after Courtney introduced us. “Like what kind of content?”

“Gaming, mostly,” I replied. “I have a friend group who also game and stream that I mostly play with. We’ll do Among Us, Lethal Company, stuff like that. But I do story based playthroughs on my own, too. Like, I just finished playing Baulder’s Gate on stream.”

“Oh, we have the perfect person to talk to about that.” Angela turned and called, “Damien!”

He wasn’t that far away from us, but Angela’s voice still rang out through the room. I couldn’t help but laugh. This was exactly what I loved about watching Smosh, and getting to see it in real life was way better than on a screen.

The familiar purple haired man made his way over to us. My heart began to beat a little faster. I had to remind myself how to breathe and how to act like a normal person. Maybe, just maybe, I had a tiny bit of a crush on Damien. He was the cast member I found myself growing attached to the most while watching, which wasn’t unusual. Everyone had their favorite cast member. I followed Damien’s non-Smosh career as well, especially his Anime voice acting. That’s when I started to realize my “attachment” was more of a little YouTube crush.

And now he was stood in front of me, and my stomach was so full of butterlies.

“(Y/N),” Angela said, pulling me back to reality. “This is Damien, our resident DND expert. Damien, this is (Y/S/N). She just played Baulder’s Gate. Communicate.”

Damien gave Angela a look before offering a hand to me. “Nice to meet you.”

“You, too.”

I was very aware I was shaking his hand for too long, but when I quickly ripped my hand away I became very aware of how weird that was, too. I internally cringed. Why can I not act normal?

“Since we’ve been assigned a speaking topic,” Damien said, luckily ignoring my current inability to be normal. “What were your thoughts on Baulder’s Gate?”

“I was pleasantly surprised. I’m not usually an RPG player, and I’ve never been into DND. But everyone and their mother was raving over Baulder’s Gate, so I decided to give it a go. I was tempted to break my streaming schedule so I could stream every day until I finished it, it was just that good.”

“It was so tough not to play it off stream. I’ve already started another save that I can play on my off time. I’m exploring what little I didn’t see on stream.”

“Romancing anyone different?”

He shrugged. “I don’t know yet. I might just focus on the story or the world.”

I nodded. I found myself at a loss for any way to continue the conversation. I tried to grasp at anything to say, but Damien’s attention was quickly drawn away by something Angela wanted to show him. Courtney pulled me into a conversation with Arasha, but I couldn’t help but watch Damien drift away, mentally kissing any shot at talking to him again goodbye.

The rest of the day passed by in a blur. The Smosh cast had a live panel to do, so eventually I parted ways with them. Courtney invited me out to an after party when the con was over, but I told them I wasn’t much of a partier and would have to pass on the invite. Although, I would definitely be holding onto the fact that I met the Smosh cast and was invited to party with them for the rest of eternity.

As much as I loved meeting fans and seeing the fun of VidCon as a creator, I was more than excited to go back to my hotel room and order McDonald’s to eat while I watched whatever old sitcom re-run was on the hotel TV.

I was in the hotel lobby waiting for the elevator when a familiar voice said, “Going up?”

My heart leapt to my throat when I turned to see Damien stood next to me, smiling at me.

It took me far too long to find my voice, and when I did I could only stutter out, “Uh, y-yeah, I a-am.”

“Me too.”

The elevator dinged and the door opened. No one was getting off, so Damien and I stepped on. We both pressed our respective floor buttons (I was definitely disappointed that we weren’t staying on the same floor), and the elevator started its journey up.

“You didn’t go to the after party?” I asked.

Damien shook his head. “I don’t drink, so there’s only so much fun you can have when you’re sober and all your friends are drunk. Besides, I don’t really party in general.”

“Me either. Courtney invited me to that party, but it’s just not my scene.”

“What are your plans instead?”

“Take out and TV. The old classic.”

All too soon, the elevator was dinging again and the doors opened on my floor. I said goodbye to Damien and stepped out. I was looking for my keycard, and mentally trying to get over the fact that this was probably the actual last time I would see Damien, when his voice called for me to stop. I turned back to see him holding the door open, the elevator angrily beeping at him.

“If you don’t have any other plans,” he said, “did you want to hang out in my room for a bit? I was just gonna order delivery and maybe play a game or two on my Switch, but it would be nicer to have some company.”

I tried not to seem too eager as I turned back to the elevator and joined him again. I wasn’t sure what I had done to be this lucky to get to spend more time with Damien, but I wasn’t about to question anything.

Damien led me to his hotel room and opened the door for me, gesturing for me to walk in first and he followed. There wasn’t much to take in since all the rooms were basically the same; a big room with one bed, a small bathroom, a huge TV on the wall, and a table with two cushion-y chairs on either side. His room didn’t have a balcony like mine did, though, and his was considerably cleaner. My room looked like a tornado had gone through it because I couldn’t decide what to wear or how to do my hair and makeup, so everything was just kind of thrown everywhere.

We sat down at the table and went through our options for delivery. My heart wasn’t completely set on McDonald’s, so I didn’t mind hearing Damien out on the options. Eventually, we settled on a large pizza and large garlic fingers, and some dessert we hadn’t heard of to go with it.

“If you don’t like it, I’ll eat it,” he said. “Nothing can be worse than some of the stuff Garrett used to make for Eat It or Yeet It.”

When the front desk called the room to let us know our delivery had come, Damien went down to grab it. When the door closed behind him, I immediately grabbed my phone and opened my Discord group with my friends.

“guys, you’ll never guess whos hotel room i’m in rn”

I was met with multiple messages along the lines of “gross”, “we don’t need to hear about your sexcapades”, “wrap it before you tap it”.

“not like that you freaks 🙄 i am currently hanging out with THEEEE Damien Haas”

My friend Nicky was the first to respond, “as in the guy from smosh??”

Jordan was next, adding, “as in the guy you’ve been crushing over for like three years???”

“yes and yes”

Now they were all suddenly very interested in what I was doing in Damien’s room. Suddenly the “ew we don’t need to hear it” messages had turned into begging for details.

I told them about meeting the Smosh cast at VidCon and happening to run into Damien when we got back to the hotel. I told them how he invited me over to his hotel room to hang out with him since neither of us were going to any after parties, and he was currently getting our delivery from the lobby.

When I finished explaining the situation, Jordan was quick to send a new message, saying, “you better kiss him tonight on god”.

I felt my face light aflame. “y’all i literally JUST met him. for all i know, i’ll never see him after today.”

Kayla, who had been quiet for most of the chat, decided this was the time to put in her two cents: “sounds like more of a reason to kiss him tonight 🤷🏻‍♀️”

I rolled my eyes and softly groaned. I guess what are friends for besides getting a rise out of you, while also giving you the advice you want to hear but don’t want to follow?

“What’s that about?”

I jumped and quickly tossed my phone aside. I hadn’t heard Damien come back, but now he was stood in front of me with two large boxes, topped with a smaller one, in his hands. I suddenly felt embarrassed, as if he had actually caught me talking about him. But there was no way he saw what we were talking about, was there?

“Just my friends being loveable pains in my ass,” I responded. “I didn’t even hear you come back. You should’ve asked me to come open the door or something.”

Damien shrugged as he put the boxes down in front of me. “Didn’t really need it. I had my key card in my hand so I could just tap it and push the door open right away. It took everything in me not to eat this whole pizza on the way up, though, so you better start digging in.”

We opened the boxes and took a few slices of pizza and the garlic bread each, before putting the boxes aside so that we could actually eat at the table (they were so big they took up the entire small round table). As I started to dig in, Damien turned on the hotel TV and casted Netflix from his phone to find something to watch. The second his profile opened, we were met with his “continue watching” section, which currently had Delicious in Dungeon as the first show under the heading. Red slowly crept up Damien’s neck to his cheeks.

“That’s embarrassing,” he said, quickly trying to get it off the screen.

“You don’t find it weird to watch a show you’re in?” I asked. Realizing how that sounded, I quickly added, “Weird as in, weird to hear yourself and know that’s you. Not weird as in...it’s a weird thing to do.”

Damien chuckled. “Not really, no. I don’t watch the English dubbed version. I mean, I watched the first episode just to hear myself and see how it all came together, but after that I just watched it with subtitles. Dungeon Meshi is my favorite voice acting thing I’ve done, and in general I really liked the manga when I read it so I wanted to follow it even though I know what’s going to happen.”

“I liked this one better than My Perfect Marriage anyways.”

I didn’t look at Damien after what I said. I don’t know why I felt almost embarrassed to have admitted to watching both. It’s not like I straight up told him I watched them just because he was in them.

But I could see him smiling out of the corner of my eye as he said, “You watched both?”

“I never finished My Perfect Marriage,” I admitted. “I wasn’t a fan of the plot, and...and I didn’t really like your character.”

He seemed surprised by my confession, so I felt the need to elaborate. “Not that he was a bad character, he wasn’t by any means. I just...didn’t like listening to him, because it didn’t...sound right, I guess? Like, it sounded like you, but not really if that makes sense. And...and I like you and your work too much to watch something that I felt wasn’t really you. That’s why I like Delicious in Dungeon better. Laios is very you.”

When I looked over at him, his smile had softened a bit. I had to look away in fear of starring at him for too long and weirding him out.

“I appreciate that,” he said.

We sat in silence for a while. Well, silence besides whatever show Damien had put on. I wasn’t really paying much attention. I was focusing on my pizza, and trying not to think too hard about the fact that Damien was sat so close to me. I mean, there was a whole table between us, but still he was so close. I still felt like I was in some kind of dream; like I was imagining the perfect way for my first VidCon to go.

At some point, Damien had picked the conversation back up by asking me more about myself. It started as questions about my Twitch and YouTube channels, but then it moved to general questions about me. In return, I started asking him about himself. We spent ages just talking and getting to know one another. Before either of us knew it, the show we had put on had stopped (neither of us had noticed so we hadn’t clicked “still watching”) and it was almost midnight.

The fatigue from the events of the day and the late hour finally hit me. My eyes were growing heavy, and I couldn’t stop myself from yawning. Damien looked over at me with an amused look.

“I guess it is getting close to a normal person bedtime,” he said.

“More like the bedtime of someone who had a lot of social interaction today,” I said. “I usually don’t mind being up late, but I am beat from today, and I have to do it again tomorrow and the next day too.”

Damien nodded in understanding. I was reluctant to leave, but I also didn’t want to just fall asleep sitting up. I had to be up early the next day to get ready for the next day of Vidcon, so I definitely had to go back to my room to sleep.

Damien walked me to the door, the leftover pizza and garlic fingers put in one box that he insisted I take with me. I tried not to be so obvious that I was stalling leaving, but I really did not want to go. I knew I’d likely see Damien at the con, but it wouldn’t be the same. And once the con ended, I’d probably never see him again, except for in Smosh videos.

“Thanks for inviting me over,” I said to him as I reached the door. “I had a good time.”

“Yeah, it was nice to have some company. You’re just as nice in real life as you are in your streams.”

The blush returned to his face, but I wasn’t focusing on that. I was too distracted by the fact that he had just accidentally admitted to watching my streams.

“I didn’t mean to say that,” he said, more to himself than to me.

“You watch my streams?” I asked.

After a moment of hesitation, he admitted, “Yeah, I do. I’ve been a viewer for a long time. I actually introduced Courtney to your stuff.”

Well, now that just made my entire day so much better. Damien was a fan of me? I had to be dreaming, right? I actually fell asleep at the table and now I was dreaming.

Feeling a bit confident, I admitted, “I’m a fan of yours, too. Like, outside of Smosh. I have kind of followed your non-Smosh career the most out of everyone.”

“Oh. Well...that’s...nice.”

We both looked at each other before we started to laugh. I was glad the moment hadn’t been made too awkward by both of our confessions.

“Hey, listen,” he said. “Before you go...do you think I could...get your number? Just so we can stay in touch after this weekend?”

No way this is happening. There’s just no way.

Instead of verbally answering, I took my phone from my bag and passed it to Damien. He put his number in and sent himself a text so that he’d have my number too.

“I guess I’ll see you tomorrow,” he said.

I nodded. “Yeah. Let me know if you have any free moments, we can hang out.”

“I’d love that.”

We said our goodnights and goodbyes. I finally dragged myself away from him. As I waited for the elevator, I turned back to see he was still watching me from his doorway. I waved as the elevator door opened. He waved back before I stepped in and the doors closed, finally separating us.

Once the door was closed, I allowed myself to do a little happy dance.

[kaliforniahigh]

Can I have something angsty,sad,fluffy,(smutty if you want) ?

Reader is on the thicker/chubby side (a few tummy rolls and thick thighs) and she thinks Noah is only with her to say he's been with a fat chick or it's some fetish thing. Reader doesn't understand how he can be attracted to someone like her. Normal 9-5 job, not rich, shitty apartment, shitty car...just getting though life and they met by chance. Maybe he liked that she treated him like a regular person even though she knew who he was, like a "yeah, I know who you are...so what 🙄😐🤷🏼‍♀️" kinda thing.

Not gunna lie the "never been with a big girl" shit has happened way more than I'd like...and honestly, I've been really hating my body lately 😔

Thank you so much for this request! I know it took me a long time to get to it and I'm so sorry about that! I hope you still like it <3

Warnings: reader is a little hard on herself, Noah also feels insecure. Reader is fatphobic towards herself :( Besides that, this is fluff.

WC: 5.9k (this is long and I haven't proofread it yet!)

My requests are currently closed!

Noah was back home in Virginia for a couple of weeks. He really just went because his best friend, Nicholas, had begged him to. There was nothing left for him in this place anymore, and there hasn't been for years.

Even though he had a lot of bitter memories from his time here, he really tried to enjoy the moments he spent with his old friends, reconnecting and telling each other how their lives changed over the years.

Right now, he was at a bonfire, sipping on his beer, despite the chill weather that fall brought along. He looked around and saw many faces he didn't recognize from years ago. To his left, Nicholas was socializing, and he thought about how things haven't changed that much after all. His friend was always better at this than him.

His eyes were fixed on you, like they have been a couple of times during the night. You were hard to miss, with your orange knit sweater and beanie keeping your head warm. He didn't remember seeing you before, if he had, he would surely remember it.

You talked animately with your hands, sporting smile on your face that made your eyes crinkle. If he could describe your aura, it would be warm and inviting, and he felt a pull towards you, suddenly having the urge to come up to you and stike up a conversation.

He held himself back, though, because you seemed very engrossed in the conversation you were having with your friends, and he didn't want to intrude or bother you.

"You're still brooding in the corner?", he was so distracted by you, that he didn't even notice Nicholas approaching him.

"I'm technically not in a corner", Noah pointed to the wall he was leaning against. Nicholas fixed him with a look.

"You should try and talk to a few people, at least this one time", Nicholas sounded like a mom scolding a child and it mildly irritated Noah.

"I will, once I finish this beer", he settled on saying, but deep down, they both knew that Noah would stay in this exact same spot for the rest of the night.

"Whatever, man. I'll talk to Josh over there, he said something about Eric cheating on Alex with their babysitter, and I wanna know all about that. Do you remember Alex from high school?", Noah scrambled his brain, and he could vaguely remember an Alex from high school.

"Is she the one who fell down the bleachers once?", he asked, the memory slowly coming back to him. He should feel bad that this embarrassing moment is what he remembers her by.

"That's exactly the one", Nicholas exclaimed, his hand slapping against Noah's chest. "Apparently her luck didn't get any better. I'll get the scoop and then I'll tell you on the way home", Noah smiled at his friend's antics and watched him walk away.

Averting his gaze back to the gathering happening around him, he found himself watching you again. He really needed to break his habit, otherwise you would think of him as a total creep. His stance and unapproachableness already didn't help him at all. He decided to go look around for something to eat, sure that he saw some snacks around here somewhere.

"He's leaving", your friend said beside you. You had to keep yourself from looking at him. Your friends have been annoying you for the last 15 minutes about the hot guy who apparently couldn't stop looking at you.

"Good, would you stop bothering me now?", you said.

"Y/N, you need to talk to him. Have you seen this man? He is hot and he's totally into you", Charlie said, an exciting tone on her voice.

"And you gathered all that from the few minutes we've been standing here?", you looked at her with a disbelieving look on your face.

"We've been here for at least forty minutes and he hasn't stopped looking at you!", she exclaimed, as if she had it all figured out.

"He could've been looking in the general direction, not at me", you reasoned, trying to forget the way his gaze felt on you. He couldn't have been looking at you out of all people from your group of friends.

"Y/N", Charlie sighed, the excitement vanishing from her features. "You need to stop sabotaging yourself. Why is it so impossible for a man to be interested in you?"

"I don't know, Charlie. I'm gonna go grab another drink, ok?", you did what you always do when someone brought this up in conversation, you left and didn't look back.

Is not that you thought it was impossible for this man to be interested in you, you just thought it was unlikely. You spotted him right when he walked in, his height made him impossible to ignore. And even though he was wearing a hoodie, you saw the tattoos all over his neck and hands, the latter making you incredibly flustered. You never thought you could find someone's hands so attractive.

Meanwhile, you came to this gathering right from work. Your hair was a mess and you had no option but to slap a beanie over it. Your outfit was nothing interesting, just a sweater to keep you warm in the changing weather. Thinking about it now, the color was even a little silly. Who wore orange sweaters?

You arrived at the table where the drinks were set, eyes surveying for something interesting and non-alcoholic, since you drove here. You were so engrossed with whatever was in front of you, that you almost - almost - didn't notice a presence beside you. Like you said, he was hard to miss.

"You, hmm... you need help finding something?" You heard a voice and you knew exactly who was next to you. You looked at him and the first thought that came to your mind was how tall he was compared to you.

He had to look down to meet your eyes and you had to crane your head back to look back at him.

"Oh, I'm just looking for something that's non-alcoholic", you answered him, with a little laugh, knowing that those beverages were hard to find in these places.

"Yeah, it's going to be a little difficult", he said, scratching the back of his neck and looking at the table set in front of you.

"It's ok, I kind of expected it. I'll just go look for dome water", you shrugged your shoulders.

"Wait, I think I saw some stuff in the fridge earlier. Do you want me to get it for you?", he pointed at the house behind the both of you. His eyes were hopeful, like he wanted to do this for you. You thought it was adorable the way he actually wanted you to have something else other than water, and you didn't have the heart to teel him no. So you said yes and saw him walk into the house.

While you waited, Noah was crossing his fingers that his friends had something in the fridge other than booze and stale food. Yes, he lied to you about seeing something in the fridge earlier, but he couldn't let you drink water at a party. He also didn't know where the urge to please you came from, but the words came out of his mouth before he could stop them.

He made his way to the fridge and opened it, and he immediatly spotted a few cans of Red Bull. They were of different colors - probably some tropical flavor - and he hoped you liked energy drinks, otherwise, he would look like a fool in front of the girl he thought was extremely cute.

He grabbed one of them and made his way back to where you were waiting for him.

"Here, I hope you like energy drinks?", he couldn't help but let some nervousness seep into his voice.

"Thank you, and I do", you answered him, and you visibly saw some tension leave his shoulders. "This is actually perfect. I'm so tired because I came right from work. Maybe this will wake me up a little", you said as you cracked the can open.

When he heard you say that, he wanted to pat himself on the back, but settled on giving you a contained smile instead.

"So", he sensed the lull in the conversation, and since he wasn't ready to stop talking to you yet, he decided to change the topic. "Who are you here with?"

"I'm friends with Charlie, she's Josh's fiancee", you answered him. He knew that Josh had gotten engaged in the last few months. Him and Nicholas knew Joah and Charlie from high school, and both of them were surprised it took Josh this long to ask the girl to marry him. Maybe if he was better at keeping contact with his friend, he could've met you way earlier.

"I saw you talking to her earlier", he pointed out and you cursed yourself, because your friends were right. He was watching you. "How did you two meet each other?", he asked and leaned against the table. He refrained from asking you to go inside and sit on the couch.

"We went to college together a few years ago. We were roomates and clicked instantly", you told him and he did the math in his head. You were friends with Charlie for what? Nine or ten years now? Shit, he really could've me you earlier. "What about you? Haven't seen you around before", you threw the question back at him, taking a sip from the drink in your hand. He had to avert his gaze from the way your lips wrapped around the rim, which was very distracting.

"Oh, I've known Josh for years. Us and a couple of other people here went to high school together", he saw your eyes light up with this information, visibly impressed.

"Oh my God. How come have I not seen you before?", you were shocked that you never noticed this man at any of the parties Josh and Charlie usually threw.

"I moved out of here really young. I live in LA now, so it's difficult to visit", he kept the information that he was in a band to himself. He liked the way you seem to not know who he is at all.

"I think he's mentioned having friends in LA before", you mused, but didn't dwell much on the information. "I don't blame you, LA seems to be much more interesting than here"

"Yeah, a little crazy out there. Not a dull moment, that's for sure", you agreed, and he wanted to know more about you, but refrained from asking what you did for a living, afraid that you would ask him back, and he sure didn't wanna lie to you.

"I never left here, I just assume from the stories I hear", he was surprised to hear this, not for the fact that you never visited other places, but because he couldn't imagine someone spending their whole lives in this place.

"You never felt the urge to go somewhere else?", he couldn't help but ask you. You thought for a second before answering him.

"I mean, I would obviously love to travel to other places, but I don't know if I would actually move somewhere else", he hummed, and you continued. "My whole life is here, my parents are here, and I know this city like the back of my hand. I guess I like the familiarity of the place"

He could understand that. Not everyone had a traumatizing childhood and teenage years like him. He guesses he could like the place if it wasn't tied to such bad memories.

He was about to ask you something else when Charlie approached the two of you, and he noticed the knowing look on her face the second he saw it.

"Hey, you two", she said as she rested one hand on your shoulder. "We're playing a board game in the living room, and Josh wanted me to ask if any of you would like to participate"

Noah waited for you to answer first, half hoping you would say no, just so he could talk to you for a little but longer. However, what you said instead crashed his hopes of talking to you for the rest of the party.

"I would love to, but I should be heading out. I'm dead tired and really need some sleep", you had an apologetic look on your face, and when he really took the time to look at you, he did notice your slightly droopy eyes.

"Thank you for coming, I know work has been chewing your ass lately", Charlie told you, but you dismissed her with a wave of your hand.

"You know I love hanging out with you guys, so it's worth the effort", you said with sincerity in your voice and you and Charlie exchanged a hug and goodbyes.

Turning back to face him, you noticed that you didn't really want to leave, but needed to before you got even more tired. Suddenly, you realized you never got his name.

"Well, we've been talking all this time and I never asked your name", you chuckled at the absurdity of it.

"My name is Noah", he extended his hand for you to shake. "What's yours?"

You took his hand in yours, noticing the way it entirely encompassed yours. You observed the details on the tattoos he had on his knuckles and hands, and you wondered once again if they continued up his arms and shoulders. "I'm Y/N"

"Well, Y/N, it's been a pleasure talking to you", he gave you soft smile and you wanted to get lost in his eyes and the way he was looking at you right now. As if you were the greatest thing that's happened to him the entire week. Little did you know.

"The feeling is mutual" you smiled back at him, having to let go of his hand, as to not turn this into those too long handshakes. "I should get going", you said and started to turn around before he stopped you.

"Actually", he started, prompting you to look back at him. "I was wondering if I could get your number", he had the same hopeful look on his face as earlier, when he asked you if he could grab you a drink. You looked at him for a few seconds before answering.

"Yeah, of course. Here it is", you handed him your phone and he put his contact in, giving it back to you.

"I'll text you so you can add mine", you tapped your screen a few times and after a couple of seconds, his phone vibrated on his back pocket. "There, now we have each other's numbers", you pocketed your phone.

"Text me when you get home?", he asked and you were caught a little off-guard, but couldn't deny you loved the way he genuinely seemed to care about you.

"Of course. I'll let you know", you smiled and contemplated giving him a hug, just to feel the way his arms would wrap around your body, but thought it would be too much for a first encounter. You settled in a little awkward wave as you turned around to make your way out of the backyard and in the direction of your car.

Noah, on the other hand, was frozen in place. When he spotted you, he was sure he was doomed to watch you from afar the whole night. But when he saw you by the table full of drinks, looking a little lost, he decided to take Nicholas' advice and mingle a little.

For someone who hated this city so much, he was actually feeling a little disappointed in having to leave in a few days. He always felt like there was nothing else worth sticking around for here, but as he replayed your smile in his head, and how your skin felt in his in those couple of seconds he shook your hand, he couldn't help but think he could stay here, if it meant he got to experince moments like this with you again.

He decided to make his way back inside, the party now with only a few people left. He sat on the couch as he watched Nicholas and his friends play a game of Monoply on the dinner table.

A few minutes went by when he felt his phone vibrate in back pocket. Fishing it out, he saw it was a text from you.

You: Hi! Just letting you know I got home safely :)

He felt a smile take over his face as he replied to you.

Noah: Hey! Glad everything went alright. Have a good night and sleep well x

You: Thank you :) Enjoy the rest of the party!

Noah: I'm about to leave soon actually. Talk to you tomorrow?

You: Sure! Drive home safe and let ME know when you get home? ;)

Noah: I will, but something tells me you'll be asleep by then

At home, you were leaning against the bathroom counter, your toothbrush hanging from your mouth, stupidly grinning at your phone.

You: I'll wait up :)

The next day was chores day for you. Clean the house, get the laundry done, change the sheets and whatever else you needed to do around the house.

Even with the music blaring through the speakers to keep you entertained while you loaded the dishes in the dishwasher, you couldn't help but let your mind run wild with thoughts of Noah.

You couldn't let go of the fact that he was so nice to you, despite never having seen you before. It's not that guys were never nice to you, it's just that the niceness came with the intentions fo something else, and you didn't want to think of Noah as one of those people.

Closing the dishwasher and starting the cycle, you made your way to the bedroom to collect all the clothes that needed washing.

As soon as you got in the room, you stopped in your tracks, your image on the mirror on the opposite wall from you catching your attention.

This was obviously a lazy day, and there was no use in dressing up to clean the house, but still, you could see the wisps of hair and the frizz sticking out from your bun, that sat atop of your head.

You wore a baggy t-shirt and some gym shorts, turning a bit to the side, you observed the fat of your thighs basically swallowing the tight fabric.

Nowadays, you weren't so worried with the way you look as you were as a teenager. A lot of therapy over the years helped you accept yourself. But you can't say it didn't leave any traumas behind.

Before you could even realize what was happening, the voices in your head were already sabotaging you.

"See? You were right. Noah is probably not attracted to you at all"

"He probably made a bet with someone about how he could charm the fat girl no one wants"

"He's tall, tattooed and handsome. You're just you"

It didn't matter anyway, he's doesn't even live here. His life in LA is probably more interesting than anything this city could offer him. He'll leave soon and your life would be back to normal. He'll probably not even text you, your phone number lost in all the other numbers he probably has in his phone.

Huffing with annoyance at how the day took a turn, you hurried to gather the clothes and make your way out of the room.

At the Ruffilo's house, Noah was laying on the couch, with his phone in his hand, open on your text thread with you from last night.

To be honest, he wanted to text you right when he woke up, but didn't want to come off to strong or bother you on your day off. Now, as it was nearing 3:00 pm, he was tired of holding himself back.

He's been contemplating on how he could ask you out for the entire day, and decided he should keep it simple. Maybe ask you out to eat some dinner. Nothing too fancy, just some burgers, fries and a milkshake at the place he loved to go with his friends as a teenager.

He even though about taking you to the lookout he always went to, to clear his head when the noises in his head got too loud. He hasn't been there in years, and now was a good time to try and resignify what the place meant to him.

So, he started typing.

Noah: Hey! Remember me?

He sent the text and stared at the screen, biting the nail on his thumb. He waited a couple of minutes for an answer, but the bubbles showing that you were typing a reply didn't appear on his screen.

You could be busy. Or you could already be out with someone else. It's the weekend after all, why would you spend it rotting away on the couch like him?

He knew if he stayed here, he would drive himself mad. So he decided to make his way uptairs to take a shower, and hopefully take his mind off of you for a few minutes.

Meanwhile, you were debating with yourself. After your dilemma earlier in the day, you weren't expecting to get a text from Noah. Actually, you were kind of hoping he wouldn't contact you, because you weren't ready to unpack what you were feeling for this guy you just met yesterday.

But here you are, mind running in circles thinking about what to say to him. Should you even reply? No, that's out of the question. You always thought it was rude to leave somone on read, especially on purpose.

You couldn't deny that you were curious to find out what he wanted. So, without dwelling much more on it, you started typing.

You: Hey there! Of course I do. Yesterday wasn't that long ago.

You wanted to lock your screen and chuck your phone across the room. But you weren't fifteen anymore, so you resorted to scrolling through social media as you waited for his responde. Eyes wandering to the notification bar every few seconds.

If this was just a booty call, you were going to be extremely upset. Would it be so bad though to have a one night stand with the hot guy?

Your phone vibrated in your hand, a text coming through.

Noah: Just wanted to make sure

What's up? You having a good weekend?

You: If good means cleaning the house the entire day, then I'm having a great weekend. What about you?

Noah: Well, now you're just making me feel bad, 'cause I didn't do anything the entire day

You: That sounds perfect, actually

Noah: Since your weekend has been so strenuous, what do you think about having some dinner?

Did he just ask you out? Were your eyes deceiving you? You didn't know what to tell him.

You obviously wanted to spend more time with him, enjoying the time you spent with him yesterday. But your mind took you back to earlier in the day. You hated yourself for always assuming the worst in a situation.

Maybe he didn't even mean anything by asking you to have dinner with him. Maybe he was just being polite. But why would he be polite to someone he just met?

Ultimately, you decided that this didn't have to mean anything more than just two people eating together. Besides, you were curious to find out what his intentions were. If he even had any.

You: Sounds good. What are you thinking?

Noah: Do you like burgers?

You: Oh, I love burgers!

Noah: It's set then! I know just the place

I'll pick you up at 7?

You: I'll be ready :)

Noah was sat on his bed, towel still wrapped around his hips, looking stupidly at his phone, a grin on his lips. He pondered a lot during his shower, and decided that he was done waiting. He didn't have much more time in his hometown, so he wanted to make the most of the time he still had with you.

He knew it was still too early to call this a first date, but he was nervous as if it was. He really hopes you like what he has planned for the two of you. It's nothing too fancy or too special, a simple dinner overlooking the city at night, but it held a lot of meaning for him.

Getting dressed and going downstairs to get some water, he knew he'd be stressing until it was time to leave to pick you up, so he decided to play some games on his computer to try and distract himself a little.

You looked at yourself in the mirror, and overanalyzed your outfit like you've been doing for probably the past 10 minutes. You wore a dress that went down to about your knees, it was a deep wine color, and threw on a leather jacket on top, just in case it got windy outside.

You opted to go for comfort instead of anything fancy, so deciding that this outfit was enough, you went to your closet and grabbed your pair of Vans and slipped them on your feet.

Noah should be here in about 15 minutes, and you wanted to be ready. He texted you a little earlier asking for your address, you gave it to him and just told him to text you when he got here. Since you lived in an apartment, it would be easir for you to come down and meet him at the entrance.

You didn't have to wait long until you phone chimed in your hands, a text popping up on the screen.

Noah: I'm here :)

You: I'll be down in a second!

Locking the door behind you, you waited for the elevator. Your legs couldn't seem to keep still, and you realized you were nervous for whatever was about to happen when you met him outside.

Do you hug him? Do you shake his hand? No, that's too formal of a greeting. But would he want to hug you this soon? He seemed to be a reserved person.

You didn't have much more time to overthink on this situation, because soon you were stepping inside the elevator. You cursed yourself for living only on the third floor, because before you could freak out a bit more, the doors dinged and you stepped out.

When you laid eyes on him, he was standing outside his car, back leaning against the passenger side door, long legs crossed and hands tucked into his pants' pockets.

You almost stopped yourself in your tracks. He was wearing a short sleeved shirt, and you could see the tattoos decorating both of his arms. You almost wanted to just stand there and admire the way looked waiting for you.

But you couldn't allow yourself to look like a fool on the first time you were going out with him. So you put on a smile and walked over to him. You didn't have to overthink anything at all, because as soon as you got close to him, you heard him say a "hello" and stretch out his arms for you to give him a hug.

He felt warm and sturdy against you, and you noticed the way his arms circled your shoulders and around your neck. You could feel his muscles through the fabric of your dress, and it made you a little dizzy.

When you both parted from the hug, you said "hi" back him.

"C'mon in", he gestured to the car and opened the door for you. You situated yourself on the passenger seat and he shut the door behind you, making his to the other side.

"So, what's the plan for tonight?", you asked, as you buckled you seatbelt and watched him do the same.

"I know this place that sells some really good burgers. My friends and I used to go there all the time. I hope it's still good", he answered and started driving.

"Burgers are always nice", you pointed out.

"Not always", he quickly looked at you with his eyebrows raised.

"Are you particular about your burgers?"

"It's not that I'm pinky or anything. It's just that I knwo when a burger is bad", he explained himself while taking a right turn and entering another neighbourhood.

"And what is a bad burger in your opinion?", you turned yourself slightly on your seat, so you could look at him better.

"Well, first, the bun has to be sealed, so it isn't soggy from the sauce", you nodded along to his explanation. "Then, the burger has to be thick enough to be juicy, and it can't be cooked for too long because then it becomes dry", he makes a face as if dry burgers are a personal attack to him.

"I guess you're right about all of that. Maybe spending four years in college kind of messed up my idea of good food"

"You ate a lot of weird stuff?", he asked you.

"It's incredible the stuff you can come up with on a budget", you shrugged and he seemed to be satisfied with your answer.

Not too long after, Noah's pulling to a vintage looking diner, but you notice him going to the drive thru instead of parking.

"We're not eating here?", you found yourself asking before you could stop.

"Shit, I didn't ask you", he stopped the car in the line and looked at you. "I was thinking about eating at this place I know, I think you're gonna like it", you could tell his confidence wavered a little bit, but you gave him a smile anyways.

"It's ok, I don't mind eating somewhere else"

The line progressed quickly and in about fifteen minutes, you were grabbing your order and Noah was driving again.

You noticed he was driving to a less populated area, and more trees came into view, the headlights of the car illuminated the path ahead.

"I clearly didn't think this through because this totally looks like I'm kidnapping you or something", he chuckled a little, but you could tell he was nervous.

"I didn't think about that", you told him. Maybe you thought this place was a little weird, but you weren't going to comment on that.

"We're almost there, ok", you nodded and true to his words, a few turns later, the car arrived at a clearence. Noah drove a little bit more and parked the car.

Looking through the windshield, you could see the light from the city below you and the stars shining bright above you.

"You were right. I really do like this place", you stated, still a little bit in awe. How did you not know about this place?

"I'm really glad you like it", he said, watching you observe the place around you. "Well, let's eat before the food gets cold"

You ate and talked, now feeling more comfortable with each other's presence. Noah told you he used to come here as a teenager all the time, though he didn't tell you the reason.

He didn't feel the same emotions now as he did before when coming to this place. It felt like a new life now for him, e new beginning, and he was to have someone like you here with him.

You did tell him though, that this was one of the best burgers you've ever eating in your life, and that you would totally eat there more. He couldn't hide the smile on his face.

After you were done, he gathered all the wrappers and cups and got out of the car to put it in the trash can that was not too far away from the car.

You sat there, observing him and wondering if you were the only one feeling like this was more than just two people who just met each other going out to dinner.

He got back and sat down on the driver's seat. Looking out into the city, he said "I kind of don't wanna go yet"

"I don't either", you agreed. You felt a weird sense of calm on this place, with him. "I can tell that being here means a lot to you. And you don't have to tell me anything, but I'm glad you brought me here"

He didn't say anything for a while, and you both just sat there in comfortable silence.

"I never liked coming back here, to my hometown", he started, you just looked at him, not saying anything, not wanting to rush him. "I have really bad memories from this place. But don't know, being here this time, meeting you, made me feel like this city still has some good in it"

"Noah, I'm hardly anyone important", you reasoned.

"It's not that. I just feel like you're here because you wanna be, and not because you want to get something from me", he looked down at his lap.

"Why would I wanna get something from you?", you were feeling a little confused now.

"it's just always the way it works. Charlie never told you whar I do on LA?", he questioned you, looking at you from the corner of his eyes.

"She told me you're in a band. Which I googled and you guys look pretty good at what you do", you noticed his eyes widening when you said this.

"So you know?", his voice was a little smaller right now, aprehensive.

"Of course. Josh would never shut up about his friends who went to LA and got famous", you laughed quietly at this. "I'm sorry that people made you feel worthy only if you have something to give them"

He looked down again, but you continued. "But I was serious when I told you that I'm not anyone important. I'm glad to be here right now, and I really enjoy your company, but you're going back to LA soon and then this is the last thing you'll think about"

"I don't think that's true", he was quick to disagree with you. "Before arriving here, I felt dread coming back to this place. Now I feel like I don't wanna leave. You're the reason for that, and I'll never forget the way you've made me feel this past two days. Because I haven't felt his normal in years", you didn't know what to say to that, so you just looked at him.

He straighted his back, and leaned his elbows on the center console, his face now closer to yours.

"Will you give me the pleasure of tasting your lips before I go absolutely insane?", he was looking right at your eyes, voice low as if there weren't the two of you here.

"We can't have you going insane, can we?", you said and leaned closer, brushing your lips on his.

You felt his hand going up your neck and gripping your jaw. He licked his lips and you closed your eyes, and soon you felt the plush of his lips on yours, slow at first, but then he got a little more urgent, picking up his pace.

His tongue teased your lips and you granted him entrance, you whimpered at the feeling of his mouth on yours, and he held your face tighter.

After parting, you were both panting, you with a smile in your face at the feeling of his thumb carresing your cheek.

"How am I supposed to ever leave this place now?", he wondered out loud and connected his lips yours again.

[rika-mmendmethings]

Terms & Conditions Apply | Sylus

Prologue

Hiatus till June 17

Summary: What begins as a financial lifeline quickly transforms into an emotional labyrinth once you agree to become both the surrogate and ova donor for the Qin family. With an entire year remaining under their roof, you begin to unravel the hidden truths behind their seemingly perfect façade. Worse still, you find yourself confronted with things that were never outlined in the terms and conditions.

Warning(s): Subject to change as we progress further into the story. For this chapter: none.

Word count: 851

Playlist coming soon.

Notes: Another Sylus series cause I couldn't hold it in till August, which was when I was actually meant to release this. This series can be considered an alternate universe because Sylus has no powers in this, and he and MC are married. But there's no change in the characters or places. Anyway, I've written 2-3 one-shots and I might've nearly gone bald because of it, but hey, at least I didn't fully drown in the void named writer's block. Enough about me, hopefully you enjoy this and decide to tune in for the series. It'll return on June 17 again since I'm avoiding writing series for now. My asks are open if you wish to know more about this. Lmk if you wish to be added to the tag list for this ♥

You’re pulled from your thoughts by the gentle voice of the woman before you, her words barely audible beneath the weight of the moment. “Do you agree?” she asks, her smile wide as she leans forward slightly, eyes gleaming with anticipation.

You glance back down at the document in your hands, the words swim in and out of focus as you read through it once again: “You, [Name], agree to donate your ova and act as the surrogate mother for the couple seated before you.” The conditions are clear and direct as you run your eyes over the rest of it. For one year, you will live with the couple, under their roof, in a world that is so far removed from your own. Your needs will be met, and your comfort and safety assured. At the end of the term, you will leave with an amount of 100 million as compensation. The child will remain with them. No strings attached.

A non-disclosure agreement sits ominously at the bottom, promising that not a word will be spoken of this agreement once you sign.

It’s absurd. You, a regular civilian, struggling to make ends meet in your nine-to-five grind, suddenly being handed an offer that could change your life overnight. A hundred million just for... donating a few eggs and carrying a child for a wealthy couple?

You’ve seen the movies. You know this isn’t as simple as it sounds. But you’re also not stupid. You’re not going to let your bank account look like it’s been hit by a tornado for the next decade just because of some minor inconveniences like... the inevitable emotional attachment you might develop to the baby or the fact that you’re signing away the next year of your life to a couple you barely know and met through a website.

But hey, 100 million. One hundred million. Your bank account would practically sing opera with that much cash.

You look up at the couple again, a momentary distraction from the formalities of the contract. The woman — Mikayla Clarke Qin, as the document states — has a radiant smile plastered on her face. Her hands are clasped together in front of her, the look of someone who has long awaited this moment. She radiates an energy, a warmth that might’ve made the situation seem less daunting if it weren’t for her companion beside her.

Her husband, Sylus, is seated next to her, his posture relaxed, but his presence commanding. One leg draped over the other, his sanguine eyes meet yours. He regards you with an intensity that unsettles you — a quiet observer who sees far more than what’s on the surface.

Mikayla, on the other hand, seems almost too eager. She leans forward again, her voice soft but insistent. “It’ll be a smooth process, I promise you. You’ll have everything you need, and I’ll personally make sure this is as easy for you as possible.” Her words sound kind, genuine even.

You exhale, deeply, before letting the cool weight of the fountain pen settle into your fingers. The decision is made in your mind now, even if your heart beats a little faster with the anxiety of what you’re about to do. This could change everything. You turn the pen and, with a steady hand, sign the document.

Before you know it, she pulls you into a hug, muttering words of gratitude to you. It’s tight, warm, maybe a bit too intimate for the occasion. You return the hug, albeit with less enthusiasm, your body stiff as a board.

And then, of course, Sylus stands up.

The man is, to put it bluntly, towering. His frame alone would make most people instinctively take a step back, but it’s his presence that truly fills the room. He extends his hand, and you, ever the awkward one in these moments, offer yours in return. His gaze doesn’t leave you, not even for a moment, and you feel as though his eyes are searching, pulling something from within you. The warmth you felt from Mikayla now seems distant, as if her husband’s presence has cast a shadow over the room. You clumsily shake his hand, trying to hide the way your palm’s suddenly sweaty.

“Pleasure to meet you,” he says, his voice smooth, low, and just... cold. It doesn’t match the warmth of his wife at all. It’s like he’s a different species entirely. You're starting to believe that opposites really do attract.

MC’s voice cuts through the silence again, oblivious to the strange undercurrent swirling between you and her husband. “We’ll see you tomorrow at the hospital and begin the procedure. Just some medical and psychological evaluations in the first stage. Nothing too strenuous,” she assures, her voice cheerful.

You grab your things quickly and head for the door after bidding the couple goodbye, your heart still hammering in your chest. The silence behind you feels deafening. And as you step out into the cool evening air, a single thought pulses in your mind, growing louder with every step:

What have you gotten yourself into?

Check out my other works if you liked this ♥

[homunculus-argument]

Probably dumb question from a trans guy who's struggling with actually physically and socially transitioning. I am a short, skinny, and relatively quiet human, and while I undoubtedly feel myself to be male internally and want my body to reflect that, I feel like nobody would ever take me seriously or find me attractive if I transitioned, or that I don't have what it takes to pass as a man in general due to people relentlessly perceiving me as feminine and female even when I do everything in my power to present otherwise.

I guess I'm just wondering if transitioning is even worth it for me? I'm almost 30, so I've lived as I am a long time, and as much as it makes me miserable and cuts me off from a lot of joy and vitality in life, it's all I know. I *think* I would feel better, have more confidence etc. if people perceived me as who I really feel myself to be, but the thought that there's a lot of people out there who would never accept that, and would rub it in my face that they still see me as something I loathe being seen as, makes me feel pretty hopeless about the whole situation.

No need to answer this if it's too personal a topic or anything, just wanted to run it past you since I admire you quite a bit, and you seem to have a lot of stuff figured out that I'm still working towards.

🐉

You sound pretty confident about it being something you can't be happy without, and honestly, testosterone is a hell of a drug, so even if you won't be astonishingly hot as a guy, you'll still read 100% as male in a couple of years. Look at the before-after pictures and progress timelines of trans men, especially HRT timelines, even the ones who don't end up looking like Kratos from God of War just turn out into completely normal-looking regular guys. There are plenty of short, skinny, and quiet cis men too, and they aren't so rare that normal people meeting you for the first time would start suspecting you to be one of those 1% minority people they've heard about.

I've also had friends who know I'm trans genuinely just forget about it. This one time a friend whom I have known since we were 15 - ten years before I started testosterone - get confused when I mentioned that my gym teacher at the time always wore electric blue mascara. She asked me which teacher was that, and only when I clarified that I was talking about the female gym teacher at my school, did she remember that I was in girls' gym classes. The thought that my school had the most flamboyant drag queen makeup wearing boys' gym teacher felt like a more plausible option than remembering that I was legally classified as a girl in school back when we met.

[writerslittlelibrary]

Why should I help you?

masterlist

summary: when you are in desperate need for financial help to pay off your rent, you go to the only person you know is able to lend you money. will the feared mob boss Natasha Romanoff even help you, or will she just see you as an easy target, like everyone always had

pairing: Mob!Natasha x homeless teen reader

warnings: murder, vague description of sexual assualt 

genre: angst, fluff

words: 2399

a/n: this has been in my inbox so long I’m embarrassed. It's such an amazing request as well :( I hope that whoever requested this still gets to read this story. I love and appreciate you 🫶 (I couldn't find the request, but I know that I got it at some point)

You do not have my permission to repost, copy or translate my work

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Your life had never been the easiest. You were abandoned after your mom lost her house. You never met your dad, and you had been living with your mom most of your life. However, your mother was a drunk and a drug addict. The little money she earned went towards her drug addiction, and there was never any left for you.

After you and your mother were put on the streets, you left her almost immediately. At first, you didn’t want to, but all the money you earned with your hard work your mother used for alcohol and drugs. 

With pain in your heart, you figured your mother was a lost cause, and you should focus on yourself. 

And so, when you mother was sleeping one night, you left, buying a bus ticket and travelling to New York. You had never done much research on where you were going, so you were definitely more than surprised when New York wasn’t the dream location you had read about when you were younger. 

The streets were empty and cold, and everywhere you looked it appeared as though someone was ruling the state with an iron fist. 

You were able to find a place to stay at rather quickly. You had only been walking for about an hour before you found an apartment building with a note saying “we’re lending.”

You knocked on the door and an old man opened. You asked if the note meant they were lending out money, and the man nodded as he let you inside. You sat at the bar as the man wrote you a few notes. He gave you a key and explained you had to get the money within the next two months, or he would take the rent in another way. 

You weren’t sure what he had meant by that, but you were happy to have a place to stay. The apartment didn’t look to bad either. Sure, it wasn’t a penthouse, but it was spacious, and had a nice bed. 

The next few days you had been searching for a job, but as it turned out, as a minor you were unable to get a job anywhere. 

You didn’t give up however, and after entering a bar, and lying about your age, a scary guy who introduced himself as Bucky gave you a job as a waitress. You would just need to serve the people in the bar, but he made it very clear you were not allowed to stand behind the bar and get the drinks yourself.

You agreed with a smile on your face, listening intently to everything he told you, wanting to make sure to leave a good first impression.

Your first few shifts at the bar went rather well, and even though you got some weird and suspicious looks at first, nobody seemed to really have a problem with you. 

It didn’t take long before you made friends with the other girl that worked as a waitress. Her name was Wanda, and apparently, together with her twin that stood behind the bar, she had connections with the owner. 

You learned that the owner of the bar was a powerful person in the city, and that she ran most places. Most people were afraid of her.

You had asked her if there were any risks for you seeing as you were working in her bar, but Wanda had just laughed and shaken her head. She assured you you were perfectly safe. 

------------------------------------------------------------- 

You had been working in the bar for two months, and everything was going smoothly. The regulars in the bar liked you. You were kind and respectful, yet you were funny and a joyful person. Bucky, who in the first instant had given you the job out of pity, had grown to like you, realising you were in fact actually very good at your job, despite your age. 

When you got home that evening, the old man that rented you the apartment had knocked on your door and told you to pay him.

You were shocked, and totally confused as you figured you would have to pay him at the end on the month. However, he shook his head, giving you a fake disappointed look.

“Don’t worry sweetheart,” he started, pushing his way into your apartment, shutting the door and locking it. “It is not the end of the world. There are other ways for you to pay,” he finished, walking forward, forcing you to walk backwards until your back hit the wall. 

You tried to get as far away from him as possible, yet once your back collided with the wall there wasn’t anywhere for you to go. 

He brought his hand up to your mouth, covering it as he leaned closer. 

“This will be half of your payment. I will come to collect the rest tomorrow,” he stated, dropping his hand to his pants, forcing himself upon you. 

------------------------------------------------------------- 

The day after the old man visited you felt disgusted. You had taken two showers already, wanting to try everything you could to wash him off of you. You still felt his hands all over your body, yet no matter how much you cried and screamed you could not get the feeling to go away. 

When the evening started, you pushed yourself to leave your apartment, walking to the bar to start your shift. 

There was no way you could get enough money to pay off your rent, leaving you with multiple ideas of just running away. You knew it would look suspicious to take some of your stuff and leave, and you figured the old man wouldn’t let you anyway. 

And so, you started your shift at the bar.

You waited until the end of the evening to walk up to Wanda. The bar was almost empty now, so you figured it would be a good moment to approach Wanda. 

“Hey Wanda, can I ask you something?” you asked as you moved to stand next to her at the bar.

Wanda turned to you with a smile. “Of course.”

“You know the boss, right? The woman that owns this bar?” you started, and Wanda frowned slightly as she nodded. 

“Yeah, why…?” she asked hesitantly. 

“Could you maybe, introduce me or something? I need money and I need it quickly. I figured I’d might be able to lend some?” you asked Wanda, and Wanda nodded slightly, an unsure look on her face. 

“Are you sure you there is no other way? Lending money from a mob boss isn’t exactly the way to go,” Wanda mentioned, and you sighed as you shrugged. 

“The alternative is worse,” you told her and Wanda nodded, telling you to stay at the bar while she got someone. 

You sat on one of the barstools and Pietro offered you a glass of water. You thanked him and drank it quickly, nervous about the fact that you would meet the most feared mob boss in the entire state. 

You had learned pretty quickly who the owner of the bar was, and with that you had also learned that she was the most feared person in the entirety of New York, and even outside of that. You heard many stories floating around in the bar, yet despite them, you kept working there. 

Wanda’s voice snapped you from your thoughts. 

She had walked over to a table which a few women were sitting at, apparently people this mob boss knew as Wanda came back with a blonde women. 

“This is Carol,” Wanda started. “She’ll take you to see Natasha.” 

You nodded and thanked her, getting up from your seat and nervously following Carol outside.

“This is my car. Get in,” Carol stated as she walked over to the drivers side. You walked over to the passengers side, hesitantly opening the door and getting in the car. 

You nervously rubbed your hand palms on you pants, when you sat down. 

Carol didn’t say a word as she drove. Not even the radio was on. There hung an uncomfortable tension in the car. You stared out the window as Carol drove, watching the apartment building blur by. 

The drive wasn’t long, something you were grateful for. Carol stopped at an incredibly fancy looking office building. 

She got out, and you followed suit, staying close as she walked through the many hallways, stopping at an elevator. She got in, waiting for you to follow as she pressed a few buttons. 

------------------------------------------------------------- 

When you finally arrived at the floor, Carol walked towards an office, knocking on the door and almost immediately entering. 

“This kid wants to lend money,” was all she said as she stood aside, allowing you to walk inside the office. Carol stayed outside and closed the door. 

There was a red headed women sitting at the large desk that stood in front of the windows. The woman didn’t look like a scare mob boss, but the again, you figured they never did. 

“Sit down,” the woman simply stated, and you were quick to move yourself into the seat.

You didn’t look at the woman, but rather kept your head down and stayed quiet. You were far too nervous to say anything. 

“Well? Why are you here?” the woman asked, getting you to look up slightly.

“I need to borrow some money…” you said softly, looking up at the woman slightly to try and read her facial expression.

“What does a child like you need to borrow money for?” she asked, and you hesitated for a moment before answering. 

“I need to pay my rent,” you told her, and you thought you caught her frown.

“Why do you need to pay rent?” she asked, and your expression turned to one of confusion. 

“To make sure I get to live in my apartment…?” you questioned, and the woman smiled slightly, something that almost seemed like an amused grin.

“You’re a child. You should be in school,” she stated, yet you just shook your head. 

“I need the money. Please,” you begged her.

Her expression remained unchanged, yet she did reach for a notebook. 

“What apartment building are you staying in?” she asked. After you told her the name, she looked up in shock. 

“Do you know what happens if you don’t pay the rent?” she asked quickly. You were confused at her sudden eagerness, yet you nodded. 

You thought you say a look of almost pity flash over her face before it turned to a stone cold expression. She got up from her chair, walking to her office door and opening it. She gave Carol some instructions before she returned to you, smiling. 

“You won’t return to your apartment. You also won’t return to your job anymore,” the woman stated and you looked up in panic. 

“I’m sorry if I said something wrong but please. I need that job,” you told her in a hurry, yet the woman just smiled at you.

“Come with me,” she stated as she motioned her head towards the door. You got up quickly and followed her demand. 

Once you two were standing outside she led you to her car, telling you to get in as she got into the drivers side. You sighed as you followed her orders, figuring she would just drive you back to the bar to then fire you properly. 

------------------------------------------------------------- 

After driving for a while, you noticed you weren’t even remotely close to the bar anymore, and so you figured she was just gonna kill you and dumb your body. 

However, after driving for about thirty minutes, she stopped in front of a large apartment building, driving her car into the parking garage and telling you to follow her. You did and soon you ended up at the top floor of the building. The penthouse.

The woman led you inside, walking towards an empty room and telling you to get in.

It was a bedroom. A neatly made bedroom. You looked around confused for a moment before the woman spoke.

“My name is Natasha. The people you are renting your apartment from are bad people, and I will take care of them. You will stay here now, and I will make sure all your stuff is brought here,” Natasha stated, smiling at you. 

You looked at her, taken back by what she had just said. 

“What…? Why?” you asked her, and Natash gave you a kind smile. 

“You are just a child. You deserve care, and love, and I will give that to you. You also deserve an education, which I will get you, if you allow me too,” Natasha stated, and you smiled as tears began to blur your vision. 

“But why…?” you cried, and Natasha stepped forwards, guiding you towards the bed, sitting you down as she pulled you into her. 

“Bucky didn’t hire you because he wanted too. He did it because I wanted too. I have been keeping my eye on you ever since you started working in the bar. This city is no place for a child to be on her own, but under my protection, you will be able to live a great life. I can assure you that,” Natasha finished, gently rubbing your back.

“Thank you,” you sobbed.

------------------------------------------------------------- 

After you had gone to sleep, Natasha had left the building, taking her most trusted team and going to the apartment building you had been staying at. 

She knew the owner, Dreykov, would come to your apartment to get his ‘payment’ tonight, and so she figured she would give him a little payment of her own. 

She had already contacted her sister, who was already waiting in your apartment for the moment Dreykov came through the door. Natasha and her sister knew what Dreykov was capable off. After all, they were once victims of him as well. 

That time, two other people ruled the city. A woman named Melina and a man named Alexei, who had done the exact same for Natasha and her sister as she was doing for you now. 

However, at that time, taking Dreykov out was risky, as the empire he build was not bad either. 

This time, Natasha knew she had the power to take him down, and so she did. 

Together with her sister, Natasha and Yelena murdered Dreykov, making sure he suffered and he knew why he was being killed. 

Natasha would protect you now. Natasha would be your family.

a/n: I feel like this is written so terribly 😭 it feels so choppy, and I feel like this may be some of the worst writing I have ever done, and that ending? oof. I apologise, and I promise my next fic will be better

Permanent tags: @marvelnatasha12346 @lesbionion @nova-kyle @darkstar225 @saraaahsstuff @marvelwomenarehot0 @screechcat @iheartjohansson @simp-erformarvelwomen @swaqcenix @karmasgxrl @marvel-lous3000 @mxximoffswifey @lorsstar1st

[meanbossart]

Sorry if you answered this, I did go through your asks a bit but didn't find an answer and I was just curious if you have any lore regarding the drow and Orin? Does he have, like, any thoughts regarding her as a pseudo-sister or she is just a henchmen that stabbed him in the back? Or like, regarding the fact it was her betrayal that got him out from the cult and eventually meeting Astarion and the gang? I feel a lot of people sanitize the Durge a little too much (which fair reaction, they are very fucked up in the game 😂) so I love hearing about people who have their durge lean on their violent weirdness

Huh! I guess it's been a minute since we've talked about Orin. Yes, their relationship was very significant and you should be able to find all that I've written and drawn with/about her here (save for anything I forgot to tag, which happens sometimes, lol.)

Also as a side note to everyone, please abstain from making comments about how other people choose to write their Durges (and Astarion for that matter) in my askbox, it is rarely (If ever) necessary.

Anyways, I guess this is a good opportunity to try and put it all down cohesively, so here we go:

DU drow came into the Bhaal temple at ages 17-19, he had lived a profoundly isolated life up until that point where his only constant companion would have been the lackey Sceleritas and, for a time, a horse. He had no friends, no companions, and killed the one woman he lost his virginity to the day after he met her. Sarevok and the rest of the Bhaalists taking him might have been a mockery of a family unit, but it was the closest he ever had to it nonetheless - and by far the one person in it that he felt the closest to was Orin, who was close to him in age and in that moment in time occupied a similar place in the temple's hierarchy as himself.

It's important to note here that when I say they were close, I'm talking about a closeness befitting of Bhaalspawn. They didn't share any good times; they had bad times together. And they enjoyed it to the extent that two profoundly dysfunctional young adults groomed to become murderous deities can. There was no tenderness here, feeling was expressed through violence and vulnerability wasn't only discouraged, it straight up wasn't practiced or even conceptualized in either of their heads. They killed together, mocked one-another, and hurt each other on the regular, and it's through those actions that they saw each other.

And yet, DU drow felt a burning limerence towards her from the moment he laid eyes on Orin, and this feeling never faltered, only grew. Orin cut off his matted hair in a careless, uneven slice of a blade, she pulled out his rotting molars with rusty pliers, she mocked his stink and resented his arrival (dare I say she was afraid, because she knew what it meant) but they had much more in common than they had in difference. This was a silent understanding, a screaming fact of life that led to them often gravitating towards each other in both packed and empty rooms, but never once discussed aloud.

I have no doubt that what would eventually become this Rabid, burning crush and later obsession of the drow's towards Orin is a result of their continous Isolation. The rest of the world was beneath them and temporary, and above was only Sarevok and Bhaal. Because of this, DU drow never once thought or desired to search for companionship and love anywhere besides for her, and so he started to see her not only as the vague concept of a sister, but also as his only option for a mate and wife, one which he embraced wholeheartedly (and that's putting it lightly).

Orin, on the other hand, had no such desires. Not to mention that her fear of being replaced and the implied consequences of it always spoke louder than any genuine feelings of comradery.

As DU drow ascended in the ranks and became head of the cult, those fears solidified in several ways. Not only did Sarevok favor him and she could feel herself being pushed aside, but DU drow's ego grew tenfold. What was once a quiet young man who saw himself as an equal to her became a self-righteous bhaalspawn who lavished in his role and all the boons that came with it. DU drow took everything he had acquired for granted, including her, whom he assumed would eventually succumb and become his romantic partner.

It didn't help that Sarevok subtly encouraged this partnership, thinking that through their children they could continue to produce bhaalspawn of a purer and more efficient pedigree.

Ironically, DU drow's disillusions went so far that he never once in his life thought Orin would turn against him, and as much of an egomaniac as he became, his love for her was always genuine - misguided, but genuine, and he never once wished for her death until she betrayed him. Realizing this, as well as that Bhaal would only accept one chosen, she struck, putting the tadpole in his head and sending him off to Kressa.

[jazminrhode1]

can you please please do a fic where they are on the podcast and they have matt or chris' gf on the podcast and they talk about their relationship and it's really cute and the guy is just so in lvoe? omg please i need this haha

Forever Be Your Always Matt Sturniolo x Reader One Shot

“Good morning, campers. Welcome back to the cut the camera podcast,” Nick feigned enthusiasm, “can you believe we’re still doing this?”

You sat in Matt’s regular spot, kind of nervous and kind of excited.

You never did this. You never got involved with the triplet’s content. Matt had filmed countless vlogs for his personal channel with you that he never posted. Not because he was embarrassed or wanted to hide your relationship but, because he didn’t want to add fuel to the fire.

The fans were fine. They had no choice but to be fine. You and Matt had been dating since before they started YouTube. You were in more of their videos in the early days but, you kept out of it these days.

Nick was the one who suggested you come on the podcast. He was sick of editing you out of content. Chris was the one who said they should take a stand and let fans know that they weren’t going to ignore the hate that you get online anymore.

It didn’t really bother you. Not matter what anyone said, Matt was still your boyfriend, Nick and Chris were still some of your best friends.

“Today we’re here with a very special guest,” Nick gestured to Matt to finish the intro.

“It’s y/n” Matt announced as Chris and Nick cheers.

“Thanks, you guys,” you laughed. This felt more natural than you had expected. After a while you forgot that the microphones were even there.

You answer questions that Matt had answered a million times before. Where did you meet? How long have you been dating? What is your favorite thing about each other?

Chris claimed that he got the two of you together and, to be honest, you couldn’t remember if that was true. All you knew was that you were thankful for Matt everyday.

“Okay, fans want to know what it’s like dating the grumpiest motherfucker on the planet,” Nick asked.

You rolled your eyes.

“Matt is not that grumpy. Really, he’s not. You just get so animated for the vlogs, and sometimes you do too much - I don’t think he likes that,” you answered. Nick pretended to take offence but, you two had never been anything but honest with eachother. And, you knew that Nick’s energy is was a hgue part of why they had been so successful.

“Another fan wanted to know if this is the kind of relationship that your younger self would have pictured,” Chris asked.

“That’s a great question,” you said and the boys agreed.

“I mean, we’ve known each other for so long. Almost all of my memories have one of you in them. Like, our moms are so close, our Dad’s golf together, my Uncle was just at your Grandma’s house doing some electrical stuff. You know, we’ve vacationed together. There’s just so much shared history even before we started dating. I don’t know that a lot of people can say that they met their partner at 5 years old and started dating 10 years later. That doesn’t answer your question.” 

You thought it over for a moment.

“I think when I was younger, I thought that someone would come along and sweep me off my feet. I didn’t think it would be my desk buddy from the second grade, you know?”

Matt just smiled. For him, he always knew.

“But, I could not have dreamt him up. I don’t think you could have convinced a younger me that I would get this lucky. That I would have found my person at 15 years old or that our families would become so entangles or that his brothers would become 2 of my best friends, you know”?

“Yeah,” Chris said. His eyes glistened.

“Another question was, do you feel like you missed out on anything since you started dating Matt at such a young age?” Nick asked.

“It’s a fair questions but, no. Even our parents when we graduated were like… are you sure you don’t want to live life separately for a little while, and that was just never on the cards for me.”

“And, Matt what about you? Do you feel like you missed out on anything?” Nick asked.

“No. I have gained more that I could have imagined from being with y/n,” he began. “I feel like I will go through my whole life as a triplet being understood by two other people in this unspoken, unexplainable way. And, in the best way, we were kind of forced together by nature and you are two of the closest people to me and, even if I don’t say it often, I love you guys and I wouldn’t be here with out.”

Chris and Nick exchanged a look. Matt wasn’t usually as forthcoming with his feelings if it wasn’t with you.

“In saying that, I don’t believe in soul mate or destiny because that implies that I don’t have a choice in this. Everyday, I wake up and I thank God that it’s next to y/n. And every day it’s the easiest choice to be with her. And every choice that I make, I consider her above anyone else.I don’t want a relationship, a marriage, a family if it wasn’t with y/n. There is no one else that understands me or supports me or loves me in the way that y/n does. You can’t put a price on that and you can’t manufacture it and if, for whatever reason, we were to break up I know that I will never find this again,” Matt said as he reached for you hand over the bench.

You saw a glint of sadness wash over Chris’ face. Nick was swooning.

“Do you think you guys will get married?” Nick asked. He was straying from the previously agreed up list of questions.

“One day. If there is one thing that y/n’s Dad told me is to enjoy every season. Enjoy being a kind, enjoy dating as teenagers, dating as young adults, don’t rush things because you’ll get to the end of your life and regret not really living in the moment,” Matt said.

“Your Dad’s so smart,” Chris said.

“Yeah, he and Matt are big on the motivational speeches,” you joked.

You answered a few more questions about future plans and Matt’s unpublished vlogs. Chris went on a non-sensical rant about not wanting a girlfriend while simultaneously wanting a relationship that you and Matt had. You knew that he was only scared that the girl he dated would only want to be with him because of his job. You knew that would break his heart.

As they wrapped up and you crawled out from behind the desk, Matt wrapped you in a hug and placed a gentle kiss on your lips.

Without saying a word, you knew how deeply he loved. Everything is better with him and he will forever be your always.

[kanmom51]

This one is kind of personal and a lot mushy

(And as I'm writing this, a bit of a rant as well)

*Be advised.😅

Been a bit.

Well, I was kind of busy. On one of those 'once in a lifetime' trips you take to celebrate a big one, this one being my 30th wedding anniversary.

And while I was on this trip (and I am sure to share some pics, cause why not, seeing we got some spectacular ones) I got to thinking about Jikook. Because, who doesn't think about Jikook on their 30th anniversary trip, right?

Let's be real for a sec. Who doesn't think about Jikook ALL THE DAMN TIME?

Obsessed much?

Hell yeah!!!😂

Proudly admitting it!!

Look at those two:

Can you seriously blame me?

Nah, but seriously.

I couldn't help but think about who I am, where I've come from, how my partner and myself came to be, our love and respect for each other, how we fought through everything life swings at you and how our love not only survived all of it but seems to have flourished even more. I can honestly say that I love my husband today even more than I did when we got married. It's a different kind of love. A mature love. A love that survived many trials and tribulations. Some you know of when you tie the knot but many more you don't expect.

And thinking of us I couldn't help but think about those two young men and how they met, what brought them together, how they connected, how they have been through so much together, the hardships, the struggles, the amazingly good and the terribly bad, all making their bond even stronger.

There are those that cannot fathom how 2 young beautiful talented men could be in a committed relationship when they have this whole smorgasbord of beautiful people just wanting to lay a hand on them. Everyone wants a piece of them and here they are in a committed relationship with each other? A long term committed relationship? How ever could that be?

When you love someone to the core, which is exactly how those two feel (people can deny it all they want, but it won't change the facts, these two have chosen each other every single time over anything and anyone else), when you get to know that one person and fall deeply in love with them, know their ins and outs, know their flaws and issues, seen them at their best and at their worst. When they are happy or sad, healthy or sick, elated or furious, and find them attractive through and through, still want to be by their side.

No.

Need to be by their side.

Want to be there when they are happy, share their joy, but also be there when they are sad or down and stand by their side to support them through it (even with and despite all those flaws and issues and difficulties that at times can also infuriate you and basically make you want to ring their necks at certain points in time) there is no love (between partners) deeper than that.

I do know, we all should, that what they experienced and how they are living cannot be compared to us regular folk. Their circumstances are such that they have to deal not only with an industry and society that deems them as 'wrong' (that includes a big chunk of their own fandom btw), but also a lifestyle that is nothing like the one we know or have experienced. The hours, the cameras in their faces close to 24/7 (up until their break and hiatus and even prior to that during the pandemic - which btw is one of the reasons people have gone mad at that point given we stopped getting an influx of BTS content for such a long time), growing up and maturing in the limelight, enjoying the fame and exposure at first and then fighting for privacy and 'anonymity' when you realize there is a price to that fame. None of us have experienced that. Yes, we can find the similarities and by extension make conclusions about them, but at the same time we always need to remember that their lives are different than ours and that we cannot always hold them to the same standards of behavior that we are used to in our own lives and relationships.

This is beside the point that every relationship is different. I will just say this. A healthy long term relationship is built on 2 or more (I ain't judging) individuals that stand as their own person and chose to be with the other/s. They don't necessary have to have the exact same interests or likes. What they do need is to love, respect, trust each other and understand that part of that is allowing your significant other to do what they love, even if it means doing it without you. Even if it means doing it with someone else. You all know where I'm getting with this right? Going out with others, travelling with others, drinking with others, spending time with others, choosing to spend time alone without your significant other, none of them diminish from your relationship if indeed it's building blocks are solid. And brace yourselves (well, those that are in long term relationships know this already...), but all of the above actually helps maintain your relationship. Can make it better and stronger.

I've been lurking a little on SM, even while away, only to find that once again, or should I say still (surprise surprise... NOT) there are those that are doubting the bond that these two young men have. It's solos and cultists trying to create an alternative universe in which JK and JM are not close and even distanced (some would love for them to actually hate each other - good luck with that psychos). Or it's once again those insecure 'Jikookers' that seem to need that constant affirmation from a real life queer couple that most certainly will not be giving them that. I keep asking myself why is it that a couple like JM and JK need to constantly prove they are together (all while they actually can't come out and say it due to their circumstances - industry and society they live in), when a heterosexual couple, say Zendaya and Tom, for example, are not expected to? How come a blurry clip (which I still say is fake) released at a very suspicious point in time, together with other obviously edited clips and serious claims of misconduct that are clearly made up and were intended to cause JK harm, have more of an impact on them than years and years of interactions, talk, actions (including just before the clip was released and after it as well)? And now another blurry clip that people are going all crazy over. Like seriously, what is wrong with people? Is the lack of content driven them mad? No drama so we need to create it? Well, thing is that when you are in a healthy committed long term relationship there is not much drama. That's the way it is when you are settled and happy and know who you are and who you love and know that they feel the same about you. Arguments, disagreements, bad days - sure. That's life. But at the end of the day if people want drama they should go watch one on TV.

So, how do I put it to make is as clear as possible?

These insecurities we get from some of the fans, they work like clockwork. Every single time, in the past, when we didn't get much from the two there were these whispers and question marks regarding their relationship. Not even if they are still together, but down to the core of their bond, as to even question if they are close or friends. This phenomenon goes way back.

But since end of 2021 beginning of 2022, when they were on their break and later the hiatus into 2023 it blew up like a full on hydrogen bomb.

This got worse after they were assigned their own 'personal' IG accounts and went on their break.

The misconception by many that these accounts were somehow their private accounts that they use to interact with each other, I can't call it anything other than delusional. Sorry not sorry. And if people did not realize that themselves if only from the lack of posting or interaction with whoever, then we had the members themselves telling us that they regularly interact within their own private chat groups. That photos shared on IG with us have been previously shared with the others in those groups. These IG accounts were created to maintain contact between the members and their fans, knowing that the group is going into hiatus and that they will each be promoting their own individual solo projects. Yes, the group Twitter (X) account could be used for that, but there was an attempt to create a more 'personal' connection between each member and Army. These accounts were work, as simple as that, and them reacting to other members or talking with each other through these accounts was not an indication what so ever to whether they were in touch or not otherwise.

At the time, back in early 2022, when people were reeling over the lack of interaction between the two on their IG accounts I tried to explain that a. not seeing something most definitely does not mean it's not there (something those two made sure to prove time and time again over the past couple of years), and b. that the lack of interaction can actually be an indication to them spending most of their time together, as there is no need to comment on another's post when you are right there to tell them whatever it is you want to tell them to their face. Not to mention, and this part is all me, so take or leave it as you will, but some of said IG posts, well, how do I put it? I guess I just say it as it is... some of these photos posted were either taken by the other or they were right there or really near by when it was taken. There. I said it. In any case, the fact that these were the only two not to interact with each other in front of Army's face, out of the whole group, that, to me, meant they were the ones spending most of the time together.

Oh, and let's just address the whole fanservice stupidity surrounding those two once and for all.

If they were all about fanservice, how is it that since that during the break in 2021-2022 and then during the hiatus and their solo endeavors, we were robbed of said fanservice? Wouldn't you expect that the fanservice couple, the scripted couple, be pushed during each other's promotions? How is it that we have seen during these periods of promotions every single other coupling other than JM and JK. Even JK visiting JM during his rehearsals was heavily edited. How come, if we are being sold a fake bond? No JK being forced to go visit JM when performing at the music shows. No JM being forced to do the same with JK. JM paired with Suga for an add for Busan (? that one was really an odd one for me). When did we see them? So yeah, people can scream fanservice all they want, but deep down inside they know it's a crap claim. I won't even go into JK's lives. There was not one ingenuine bone in his body, and that excitement seeing JM's comments, that coquettish behavior while interacting with him (especially during the bed live, OMG!!!), the reactions to the JM centered content he CHOSE to watch during those lives, none of that is scripted nor acted. It's all JK. All him. And JM's reaction when JK shows up at his documentary viewing live, that little butt wiggle in his chair (reminds me of Bam when happy to see his dad/s, as shown by JK), the face lighting up, the genuine worry on his face talking about JK working hard (during another couple of lives), again, not faked.

So yeah, not fanservice.

I digressed, I think.

Let's get back to 2022 why don't we?

On their break these crazy stories of heartbreak and breakup and hate and suffering and god knows what, only all to be thrown out of the window as soon as we got to see the two together again during the Seoul concerts and then LV. Oh LV. That was a wild ride.

Then BTS went on hiatus and the solo era began. And we were getting less and less ot7 content, and once again the insecurities. These ups and downs (you know, the whole JITB party stories about them not being together - that was countered by the BTB that followed a while after), then Busan concert's high, then 2023's downs and ups and downs and ups and fruck it all, I'm sea sick from this stupidity.

Same exact stories were repeated in 2023!!!

Especially after THE CLIP "which shall not be named" dropped.

SAME EXACT TO THE T STORIES!!!

But again, I digress.

Insecurity regarding the two and their bond (seeing they aren't in the public eye) followed by realization that everything is as it was (if not even better and stronger) once we see them together again. And the reason we don't see them together while on break... wait for it... is because they are a private couple living their everyday life, not for the cameras, not for Army, but for THEMSELVES.

Who would have thought.

And when they are together, as in working together, either filming or shooting or performing, well their bond can't be hidden, as much as they might have to wind it down at times (which is mainly not when they are on stage hyped up on adrenaline, lol), seeing that this is still Kpop, with fandoms that feel ownership over them, not to mention them being a queer couple. You know. All the usual reasons.

This idea people have that these two owe us something. That they constantly have to prove their bond, their connection, their relationship. What utter bull.

Anyway, what a slap in the face (for some a good wake up call, for others a well deserved one) the news of them choosing to enlist together was for so many.

Bottom line is, repeated for the millionth time, that these two young men have shown us time and time again that when push comes to shove they will chose one another!!!

I feel like I'm all over the place here. Came to talk about my trip and ended up talking about fanservice and insecurity and god knows what. I guess it's the jetlag (yeah, let's go with that and blame it on the jetlag).

In any case I will go with my favorite saying as of late:

Why this whole long word vomit, you may ask (or you might not ask, who knows, lol)?

What the hell does this have to do with my trip?

Nothing...?

Probably, lol.

But I am going to try to connect the dots. Even if they did make sense in my mind when I first started writing this post and no longer do...

How about the fact that the two chose to take these trips together?

See how I did that? Connecting the unconnected?

Not even going to ask the egg-chicken question here, as I am quite positive it was always about the trips and the show/content for army was the excuse that allowed them to travel 'for work', and a little bonus of content for army when they are away - not to mention perhaps even an opportunity for a soft outing, who knows.

They wanted to spend this time together before enlistment.

We know of at least 3 trips. Connecticut, Jeju and Japan (the Jeju trip may or may not be part of that 'show').

We are yet to know what exactly this 'show' will be. Will it be an actual show, style BV or ITS? Will it be a Vlog? Will we be getting actual episodes or several minute clips? But one thing for sure. Whatever we get, it will be a drop in a lake of the time they spent together. They went on these trips to be together. They shot this 'show' to allow them to be on these trips. This 'show' will give us a glimpse, no more than that, of what they got up to while together. Bottom line - it's about them, not the show and definitley not us.

So yeah, tripping together (lol, as in traveling, just felt like using that fun word, which can mean so much more as well) is something couples love to do, and going on said trips prior to a huge life changing event (let's be real here, going into the military for 18 months, especially knowing that to be able to enlist TOGETHER, they will be placed in one of the harsher units and environments, knowing that even though they will be together they most certainly will not have the freedoms they enjoy prior to enlistment), well that is something they would do as well.

To sum this whole rant up:

I came here to show off some pics from my trip...

If Jikook are allowed to (and god help them all if we don't get that show eventually...), then so am I...

The scenery...

And the wild life

So there you have it.

I managed to talk about my trip and about Jikook all in one long ranty post.

To those that managed to work their way through it I have this to say: