#but like: romance for weirdos and dorks

[hitlikehammers]

put a ring on it 💍🪡 💕

“Is this actually necessary?” Eddie seems to judge where the very patient piercing-professional is in relation to their…target, before turning his head, hair half-covering his face: “How can you possibly believe that it isn’t?”

rating: t ♥️ tags: future fic, established relationship, rockstar eddie munson, successful-in-his-own-right steve harrington, fluff, humour, flirting in awkward places, body piercings, dork4dork, NOT marriage proposals, silly boys being silly ♥️

for @steddielovemonth day seven: Marry me - Train (full disclosure: I have never even listened to this song; the title just was there then I blinked and this story appeared)

“Is this actually necessary?”

Eddie seems to judge where the very patient piercing-professional is in relation to their…target, before turning his head, hair half-covering his face:

“How can you possibly believe that it isn’t?”

The way he tries to sound so scandalized would be undercut by Steve knowing Eddie as a rule, but, in the now?

The way he has to spit his curls from his mouth as he talks definitely does the trick.

“We share a bank account.”

“But we’re using the card with your name on it.”

Eddie says it like it makes a difference. And if it does to him, then fine. Steve just…

It’s not like their finances are uneven: Corroded Coffin’s finally at the filling-arenas stage of the dream hitting, and Steve? He asked Owens, when the last round of hush money was getting doled out, to look into some of his dad’s business practices that even Steve thought were fucked up, and if they found anything, to promise Steve the company, and a seat at a college to learn how to build the operation back up honest.

Along with his own unexpected prodigy of a CFO—one Elle-Jane Hopper, who’d asked Owens for an education, too—they’ve done very well for themselves under the Harrington name, well enough that it’s one Steve’s not even conflicted to use anymore.

Or ask Eddie to hyphenate, if that’s what he wants when the time comes—Steve’s just not gonna give up the opportunity to at least be legally a Munson in some respect, on his end.

Which brings them back to: here

With Steve putting a ring on it.

Like, if Eddie wants this? Of course he should get it. Steve supports a whole shit ton of what Eddie wants—and only protests or downright intervenes to stop things when they’re 100% going to end in pain, prison, or generalized regret.

So Steve just…does not understand what prompted the sudden, frantic need. And the twist or possessiveness isn’t wholly out of character—Eddie craves feeling wanted, feeling loved, and Steve likes to think he does a damn good job delivering on both in basically everything he does, since it’s true in every breath he takes. But it’s not like Eddiedoesn’t get various undergarments thrown at him every night on stage, for his side of the coin. And Dteve just…Steve’s seen him pontificate from lunch tables and helped him relearn how to fucking walk in ‘86. He’s not threatened by horny concertgoers.

So the oddly enthusiastic and out of nowhere urge to half-strongarm Steve into ‘locking it down’?

Eddie is his be-all-and-end-all. Steve does in fact already have the perfect ring in his home office where Eddie raids Steve’s legal pads and steals honors for when inspiration strikes, baby, the muses are fickle mistresses, but ever goes into drawer that has the calculators and classic adding machine in it because they’re soul crushing, they ward off creative genius, and honestly, it’s the easiest and most guaranteed place to keep something secret from his sniffer-dog of boyfriend, partner, other half.

Soon-to-be fiancé.

“So if this is a proposal,” which it’s not, Steve will not accept any of his as a proposal; he has fucking plans to sweep Eddie off his goddamn feel and this admittedly-perfectly-fine room in an arguably-high-end studio, parlor, thing—this is not a proposal.

But getting answers out of Eddie is often like arguing with a toddler; you have to operate under his rules of reality. Steve learned that one years ago.

“So if this is a proposal,” Steve starts again, that that premise firmly in place; “that I’m making. With my bank card.”

Eddie’s eyes flash around to find the piercer, and judges it safe to nod enthusiastically. Good. Makes Steve’s next question easy.

“The fuck were all these, then?”

Because Eddie is covered in metal, now; so. Operating under the rules of his reality, here—

“Promise rings.”

Oh. My. God.

He flutters his lashes all innocent too, the fucker.

“You’ve been making so many promises, baby,” Eddie croons, eyes glinting, and it’s clear he thinks he’s taking the upper hand; “for so long, and I’ve been yours every second.”

If Eddie hadn’t been dutifully prepped for getting stabbed already, Steve would throttle him, now. Not even feel bad about it.

The woman doing the stabbing had been very nice so far, though, and it seems unfair to ruin her careful work when Steve can just throttle Eddie later.

It’s not like there won’t still be clear reason for it.

“It really is kinda romantic that,” the woman with the needles starts, and Eddie brightens; Steve’s already pinching the bridge of his nose like a Pavlovian response.

“Please do not encourage him,” Steve cuts in, not above begging; “in fact,” and he glances at Eddie, who still looks too wide-eyed; too hopeful.

Which is more than concerning in scenarios like these.

“Does he need any more instructions for this part, other than to stay fucking still?”

Steve directs it at the woman who’s adjusting her gloves as she gives Eddie a once over for his position on the table.

“Not,” she stilts her head once more, considering one more angle; “not really, we’ve gone over everything and he’s all set, we just—”

Steve turns on her, serious to the point of solemnity as he lays his cards down plain:

“I will triple your tip,” and he flicks his eyes to Eddie, deliberate with his power play, however small it may be; “on the card with my name,” he emphasizes; “if you don’t say anything more until this,” Steve gestured at his half dressed partner splayed just so before him.

Or: before him, and the woman Steve’s currently trying to bribe into silence so that Eddie can’t be given even the tiniest scrap to cling to and run with, dog with a fucking bone—

“Nothing. Until this” Steve gestures vaguely at the…location in question; “is done.”

She considers Steve a second, before she nods and zips her lips. Steve lets out a sigh he didn’t realize he was holding.

“You’re killing the mood,” Eddie pouts loud enough to makeup for the paid-for silence. Steve glances at the piercer, who nods again when Steve mines approaching Eddie.

So he leans in and brushes those wayward curls properly out of Eddie’s goddamn mouth this time and kisses him until he loses enough oxygen to be fuzzy on his own goddamn name.

He only breaks apart, panting himself but nothing compared to Eddie, whose gasping uneven, eyes unfocused, throat working on remembering how to swallow.

“You…have revived the mood.”

Steve smirks; looks behind his shoulder.

“He still where he needs to be?”

The piercer gives Steve a thumbs up.

“Fantastic.”

Then he’s stepping back, taking his absurdly unnecessary—save that he’s putting a ring on his man, when technically it’s a very qualified woman who came highly recommended by Gareth of all people who’s actually doing the honors, more proof to Steve that the whole thing is fucking absurd—

Said woman is holding up a notepad to Steve.

It really does do wonders for stimulation, it’s our most popular request :) is crawled out first. Steve…

Steve will pass his own judgement on the matter, when the time comes.

The next line she wrote is more time sensitive, and more practical.

I usually ask if the client wants me to count before the need goes in. Can you ask, and if he wants it, can you be my voice? I’ll breathe out really hard for the numbers so that you’ll know.

She’s playing along with his need to keep a leash on his fucking lunatic boyfriend so well, so yeah. Steve can do that.

“Want a countdown?” he asks Eddie with a deliberate side-eye; they’d waited for him to get his breath back because he had to be fucking still but.

He’s still being all fucking moony-eyed.

“From you, baby?” Eddie purrs. “So it’ll put your voice in my ear every time I so much as brush against it?”

Steve rolls his eyes and nods to the woman; she holds up five finger and breathes out heavy like she said, as she puts one finger down.

Steve gets the memo.

“Three,” he calls, and Eddie’s doesn’t even tense. Weirdo.

“Two,” and still Eddie’s just…grinning like he’s lost in the clouds, so when Steve sees the needle prepare to press through, he doesn’t even feel that bad about being the bearer of the news:

“One.”

Steve does fucking flinch when it punctures skin, when Eddie’s the one who finally does make a hell of a sharp intake of breath this time. Because…god.

It’d better be a long-term investment in one hell of an increase in pleasure because…fuck.

It takes Eddie a while to stop panting through his teeth like Steve’s seen women in movies do when they’re in labor, but once he’s calm, he shoots Steve the cheekiest fucking grin, because of course he does, and rotates his wrist like a goddamn QVC host, to let his open palm put the finished product on display:

“Now presenting Edward Munson-Harrington,” he wiggles his currently-bare left ring finger; “and the newly-crowned, befitting his ancestral lineage,” Eddie bows his head theatrically doe tears his pines like that freak he really always has been: “Little Ed—ahh!”

Steve does take that opportunity to step in and pull and Eddie’s curls to reposition his head to look Steve square in the eye:

“This was not a proposal.” He holds the point until Eddie’s eyes get a little wide a he nods—probably less for taking in Steve’s declaration and more because the fucker gets hot and bothered when Steve gets even a little forceful about…well, anything.

“You’re gonna wait like a good boy for that when it’s meant to happen.”

Eddie just brightens up all the more and…goddamnit.

It really has been a relationship-long struggle, at this point, when his boyfriend found it hot when he yelled at a gaggle of shitheads before they even said a word to each other. He probably should have expected the opposite reaction to him ever trying to assert authority over…basically anything, ever—he should have just know from the beginning this response was only going to only escalate from there.

He bows out while he still can—they’re in a oublicnplace for fuck’s sake—with a very dignified flick to Eddie’s ear.

“You don’t even callyou dick Little Eddie, fucking dipweed.”

Eddie snorts. Steve just shakes his head like he’s accepted as his lot in life.

“She’s gonna give you the…care instructions?” he looks to the piercer, who’s been busy doing…cleanup or something while Eddie sits being a menace. She nods, then turns away to hide her grin. Fantastic.

“And I’m gonna go settle up the bill,” and then, Steve points to the door.

And—because Eddie’s stuck here for at least a few more minutes, and the piercer stepped out that very same door to grab the paperwork she’d prepared before they began—Steve takes the opportunity to subtly pop the top button his his dress shirt before he leans in and lets his tongue slip against the shell of Eddie’s ear as he whispers rough, near to the tune of a growl:

“And if you make your king proud and listen real fucking close to how to keep this from falling off because you didn’t clean it right or whatever,” he nods down to Eddie’s crotch:

“Maybe his majesty will see fit to reward you.”

Steve straightens up as Eddie gapes like a fish, smiles at the piercer when she comes back with a stack of pamphlets and printouts, and bites back his own smirk as best he can when Eddie makes a squeaking noise because…wow, yeah, Steve maybe knows Eddie’s predictable physical response to that tone of voice, and those kinds of words delivered in it.

That response probably hurts like hell, given what Eddie’s just asked to happen to his goddamn dick.

“Crazy fucking idiot,” Steve mumbles, and is nearly out of the door when he gets a singsong call in reply:

“You love me!”

And shit, but isn’t that just the explanation for basically everything that ever happens in Steve’s entire life?

And god help him: he’s got the ring, for a finger, and the reservations and the perfect place to drop to one knee all set to make sure it stays that way.

Crazy attracts crazy, he guesses; Jesus H.

Though, as he hears the beginning of those care instructions on the way out the door, he thinks Eddie’s insanity here might come with its own built-in consequences to learn from: no sex for six to eight weeks.

Good thing Steve’s proposal plans are for well outside that window.

But it might be gratifying to taunt Eddie with it anyway. He’d made Eddie blush so hard just playing into his deathless reappropriation of Steve’s high school royalty shame; he figures he’s got a lot of avenues right now to have his own fun with the fact that the love of his life’s a fucking dork behind the scenes.

✨permanent tag list: OPEN (lmk if you want to be added/removed): @ajeff855 @askitwithflours @awkwardgravity1 @bookworm0690 @bumblebeecuttlefishes @captain--low @depressed-freak13 @dragoon-ze-great @dreamercec @dreamwatch @dreamy-jeans137 @estrellami-1 @goodolefashionedloverboi @grtwdsmwhr @gunsknivesandplaid @hiei-harringtonmunson @hbyrde36 @imhereforthelolzdontyellatme @kimsnooks @live-laugh-love-dietrich @mensch-anthropos-human @nerdyglassescheeseychick @notaqueenakhaleesi @ollyxar @pearynice @perseus-notjackson @pretend-theres-a-name-here

divider credit here and here

[yerchokito]

haha I don’t know what to write (I hate this)

college au ft weirdo gojo!

warnings: not proofread, smut, meanish reader, terrible smuttyness.

satoru gojo is a massive nerd.

I mean, just look at the way he acts! digimon this, my little pony that, it’s way too obvious. sure he has looks or whatever, not like you would ever fall for that dork.. like totally.

how does he have friends? no one knows. he’s got this off-putting vibe around, yet somehow that managed to bag suguru geto and ieiri shoko, must be paying them off or something.

it’s not like you’re popular, but you’re definitely not jealous of some weird rich kid who’s probably a virgin and’ll never get his dick wet because he’s so freaky and weird with that snowy white hair and stupid wide blue eyes, god!

and it’s just your luck when you get assigned to a project with him, the world hates you, and you hate the world.

but to satoru, oh it’s like he’s died and gone to heaven!

he’s been praying for any god to grace him with just one chance with you. a total ‘dork on dork romance’ as his friends would call it. sure you’re not the most popular, probably because you’re pretty mean, but that’s what makes satoru fall head over heels for you! he knows you judge him, knows you loathe him, but god he loves your attitude.

his friends call him a pervert, and they’re right. but, you’re just so sexy! deep down, he knows you’re all hot and bothered for him too.

it’s a cold night when you invite satoru gojo over, dressed in nothing but your pyjamas.

‘just gotta finish this stupid project with an idiot, then home free.’ is the only thing that’s keeping you going.

in satoru’s mind, the only thing keeping him going is your skimpy clothing you call pyjamas. that permanent frown on your face makes his rising hard-on even harder.

with sexual tension suffocating the both of you, you could only imagine what happened in the next couple of hours..

“haa—hey! slu-slow down you prick—!” you angrily breath out. yeah, you may hate yourself for this but, jeez does this guy have an amazing dick.

you were right about him being a virgin, a virgin with a big dick. said virgin is now blowing your back and possibly your brains out, messily rubbing on your clit that it’s almost cute. almost.

“heh, th-thought you could handle it—fuck.” satoru whimpers, he’s vocal, like really loud. you groan knowing about the noise complaints you’ll get for his ass. might as well try to shut him up.

luckily with you laid on your back it’s easy access to his mouth. now to shut him up.. sigh.. might as well.

cupping your hand around the back of his neck, you tug him toward your nipple, he happily accepts it like a freak. greedily sucking like a baby. it makes you cringe at the new sensation, clenching around him even tighter. he moans against your tit, rutting into you faster, balls slapping hardly against your ass.

then, he cums.

it happens fast, one moment he was happily humpin’ into you now he’s spurting out his icky seed into you! didn’t even make you cum! typical.

“hm..m’sorry forgot to.. pull out..” satoru apologetically whispers. half-assed apology, he’s luckily your on the pill.

“never.. tell anyone thi-this..” shame falls upon you. fucking icky satoru gojo who can’t even make a girl cum!

hm..

“hey..” you speak, softly to him for once. “wanna go round 2?”

eh, you’ll just have to teach him so he’s not even more loser-y

[through-a-blackhole]

to natsu, nalu is basically canon

i've had this thought for a while now but

i think natsu dragneel already has it in his mind that he and lucy are.... Together together. Girlfriend Boyfriend. Husband Wife. Married With Kids.

one day lucy gathers enough guts to confess to natsu and he just goes "lucy i dont get it why are you confessing are we not already together but yes i love you too you weirdo"

and lucy is like ... "what did you just say"

and we finally figure out that natsu basically thought they were dating this whole time. and lucy's losing her mind and going "why didnt you SAY anything???" and natsu, dumb dork that he is, just goes "you have to say it???"

AND I GET IT!!! like,,, she's his number one priority every time, sleeps at her house, spends most of his time with her, puts his head in his lap when he's motion sick, saves/catches her multiple times, basically has seen her naked (and only ever showed physical attraction to her and no one else), considers her his best friend and with happy they make this little quaint family, and he doesn't understand why she thought they weren't together. she rewrote his book ffs and saved his life.

HE UPROOTED A WHOLE RAINBOW TREE AND SAILED IT DOWN A RIVER FOR HER. even natsu dragneel, "i love my nakama" incarnate, wouldn't do that for anyone else. so of course he thinks they're together. and lucy just thinks they're tethering on the edge of romance and friendship.

in every universe there was, natsu and lucy were always together. edo-natsu and edo-lucy who have a kid now, and even in "fairy nail" nakku and lusha.

they're just meant to be Together in every way sense and form. natsu knows that!!!

[onceonafullmoon]

And they were roomates

Sae x GN! Reader

Arranged Marriage AU, slightly suggestive at the end, fluff, typed out in like an hour so it might be ass

Sae’s charming, in a typical book stereotypic way, his blunt, chilling demeanor, he’s like something out of a billionaire romance novel you’d pick up, but he’s also not. He watches Crayon Shin-chan, he cracks jokes (though sometimes you can’t tell if he’s serious or not), and he’s a massive weirdo (he finds the strangest things intriguing, an example being his choices of friends). And maybe that’s why you found yourself falling for him, because he’s a complete dork at times despite everything about his initial impression screaming otherwise.

Your relationship with Sae has always been quite stiff, but it’s not something you ever really minded when you thought about it.

Arranged marriages aren’t exactly supposed to be considered the prime of romance, but you haven’t really gone into this thinking that it would be some sort of romantasy book. At best, it’s a slightly awkward roommate situation with a healthy dose of boring that you’d find in any dorm situation.

The only difference is that you share a bed with a pillow between the two of you, (for your comfort more than his, you suppose he wouldn’t care either way) and the fact that his parents and yours will occasionally pester the two of you about your marital relations.

But other than that, it’s the standard roommate situation. Adjusting to each others schedules (he goes for runs at ungodly hours in the morning), setting rules (you’re not allowed to hog the shower in the evenings) and occasional roommate bonding activities (you and him have movie nights, and you strongly uphold the idea that Taxi Driver is a shit movie), it’s normal.

But you notice that lately, things have skewed slightly, you find yourself a bit too eager to see him when he comes home from  practices, discover yourself taking over for the cooking when you know he’ll be late, looking forward to hanging out with him. You notice that nowadays you don’t even bother to put the pillow down between the two of you when you go to bed.

It takes you a good while to realize, but you know that deep in your heart it was obvious. You have a crush on your husband.

And it’d be so silly of you to pursue that, these lingering feelings of affection, when you know he’s only in it for familial obligations, but still, you can’t help but fall for him.

Sae’s charming, in a typical book stereotypic way, his blunt, chilling demeanor, he’s like something out of a billionaire romance novel you’d pick up, but he’s also not. He watches Crayon Shin-chan, he cracks jokes (though sometimes you can’t tell if he’s serious or not), and he’s a massive weirdo (he finds the strangest things intriguing, an example being his choices of friends). And maybe that’s why you found yourself falling for him, because he’s a complete dork at times despite everything about his initial impression screaming otherwise.

Anyway, it all comes to a head one night as the both of you are baking in the kitchen, your hands and clothes stained with flour as you set to work rolling out the dough for cinnamon rolls, him being occupied with the creating the batter for the pumpkin bar recipe you showed him (you knew he wouldn’t eat any of your baked goods on the account of his diet, so you compromised with this). It’s simple and domestic, and you can’t help the way your heart races slightly in your chest as you try to focus on the way you carefully push your rolling pin across the expanse of the tan dough.

You’ve been absentmindedly chatting for sometime when suddenly the topic of your marriage is brought up, and you laugh as you tell him that you weren’t exactly sure what marriage would be, but you didn’t expect it to be like this.

“Is it worse or better?” Sae asks, pouring the batter into the tray carefully, using his spatula to maneuver the liquid out.

You pause to consider this as you reach over for your brown sugar and cinnamon mixture to spread over the dough. 

“It’s not worse than what I thought the worst case scenario would be, but it’s not better than the best case scenario.” You answer, looking at him with a slight smile.

He looks up at you then, mildly curious as he sets his bowl down, the batter spread out evenly in the pan in a way that’s so infuriatingly perfect compared to your slightly clumpy spread and speaks, his cool tone betraying nothing of his own feelings on the matter.

“And what would have been your best case scenario?”

You’re tempted to respond comically, an image of an Adonis with a heart of gold and the charisma of a prince flitting through your mind, your imaginary husband having both the ability to lead a university lecture and yet somehow also only listen to you during arguments, but you shrug and decide to be honest. 

“I think my best case scenario would have had a bit more romance.” You say, starting in on carefully rolling up your dough. 

“Not that we aren’t madly attracted to each other.” You add on as an afterthought, a slightly bitter smile on your face as you consider your own one sided secret infatuation. “Which reminds me, when exactly are you going to fall in love with me?”

You can already see his reaction, the blank look he’ll give you when you bother him too much with your jokes, a dry scoff leaving his lips as he stares at you with a disbelieving demeanor, probably paired with an eye roll if he’s feeling particularly catty.

“I already have.” He says instead, making you pause in your actions, your dough half rolled as you look up at him.

You can’t usually tell when Sae is joking, it’s true, but you can tell when he’s really serious about something, the way his body shifts to face you as he begins to talk, even the slow smooth candace of his tone, but the most important give away is the way his eyes narrow slightly, the green in them becoming even more piercing.

For a moment, you’re stuck there, frozen in place as the implications of the words really start to sink in, awe struck by the realization that what you wanted, what was something so close, yet so impossibly far away, was right there in your grasp.

And then the oven beeps, and the world resumes motion as you watch him absentmindedly put the tray inside, clueless to how you’re feeling as he shuts the door in place.

“I’ll be back later then, I’m going to shower.” He says, and you can’t tell if you’re still breathing. 

It must be nice being emotionally dense you think, but as you see a hint of a smirk on his face you realize that you might be wrong about his sensitivity towards emotions.

“You should be more firm with your boundaries starting now though.” He says over his shoulder. “I’ve got needs too and I won’t be able to hold back if you keep forgetting to put that pillow down.”

The words echo in your mind as you look after him as he leaves, your dough half rolled into a tube as you struggle to process what just took place. Eventually, you manage to form a single thought as you stand there, face flushed.

Asshole.

[pomefioredove]

who they fall for, heartslabyul

I did a longer one of these for rook and now I can't get the idea out of my head, so... series! (part 1/8)

summary: soulmates type of post: blurbs characters: deuce, ace, cater, trey, riddle additional info: romantic, not proofread so maybe ooc, gender neutral partner, really just thoughts

𝐃𝐞𝐮𝐜𝐞 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐝𝐞

trope: dorks in love

Deuce ends up with someone who, most of all, challenges him. they put him at ease, and there's a definite shared gentleness between the two, but it's his partner's subtle rebellious streak that wins him over (though they definitely know when to tone it down). puppy love that turns into something deeper. they accept him as he is, flaws and all, and they support him in his growth towards becoming a better person. fiercely loyal. they and Deuce would constantly be fighting to be the "chivalrous" one. taking turns telling the waiter the other asked for no pickles, running to hold doors open, etc. it's cute, but a little competitive, just enough to motivate him.

𝐀𝐜𝐞 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐚

trope: tsundere

his soulmate? someone who can take a joke. no, no, I'm kidding, but they would have a wicked sense of humor, one that compliments his perfectly. and an adorable laugh, of course, snorts and all. someone who can feed his ego without overdoing it, keeping him wrapped around their little finger (trust me, he loves it). a little mutual teasing never hurt anyone, right? at the same time, though, they'd be completely devoted, loyal, and loving, just like he is. he brags about being a ladies man, though, really, he's almost completely closed off when it comes to matters of the heart. it takes a lot of patience (and a lot of putting up with his shenanigans) before those walls start coming down to reveal the romantic hidden behind them.

𝐂𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐝

trope: slowburn

similar to friends to lovers, but of a different flavor. Cater is subtly flirty with almost everyone, it's the people-pleasing, but a soulmate? yeah, he'll believe it when he sees it! of course, he's completely blind to what he's needed all along being right in front of him. someone who listens to him, who cares deeply about his feelings, who can read his body language and know just what he's thinking. someone he feels comfortable around without feeling the need to hide himself. a bestie, if you will. he's absolutely the first to catch feelings and drives himself mad about it, not daring to make a move out of a fear of vulnerability (or being a weirdo, take your pick) and it devolves into months, years worth of cringe pining. "looking at the pictures they'd taken together and giggling" pining.

𝐓𝐫𝐞𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫

trope: weirdos in love

thought it was gonna be domestic bliss? nope. I'm saving that one. Trey isn't quite ready to settle down yet, having spent his whole life taking care of others (to the point where he hasn't had a moment to figure out who he is...) and so he's put a hold on the whole "romance" thing. of course, the last thing he was expecting after graduation was to bump into someone that would throw that plan out the window. truly, his soulmate is someone he feels he can be himself with, who gives him the ability to relax and be the one who gets pampered, for once... it's a very equal and loving relationship with a like-minded and responsible person. one who goes along with all his bits, too.

𝐑𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐥𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬

trope: opposites attract

oof the ouch. no, Riddle is not ready for the ups and downs of a relationship, and he knows that. he's always chalked up his disinterest in romance to his studies, and his utter disinterest in taking anyone home to meet his mother's highly specific future-in-law criteria. though, secretly, Riddle has held onto his own little list of "perfect" traits, almost going as far to fantasize about an imaginary partner to keep him company. the person he does end up falling for makes that list null and void. they're daring, adventurous, creative, curious, open to all sorts of nonsensical ideas that challenge all of Riddle's. they represent a sort of freedom that he's never had, and before he can even hate them, he finds himself falling. but someone like that could never tie themselves down to someone like him... right?

[fluffytriceratops]

→ryūnosuke tanaka - just friends←

notes: HAHAHAHAHA PAIN- [pre time skip]. This was a request by one of my lovely friends @shrimpppy . I hope you guys enjoy it! This imagine has been in the works for a while and I have more on the back burner waiting to be finished as well.

(If you want me to tag you in my future haikyuu x reader stuff, feel free to lemme know and I’ll tag you!)

I hope you all have a lovely day/night!!

.⋅ ۵♡۵ ⋅.

She took in a wobbly breath, her bottom lip quivering as she pressed the heels of her palms into her eyes. Trying her hardest to slow her tears.

She hated love. Absolutely loathed it.

All it brought along was pain and misery. There was no such thing as a fairytale romance. No such thing as love at first sight. No such thing as soulmates. It was just an aching, sinking feeling in her chest. A black hole swallowing her completely.

Love was chaos.

And she never wanted to feel it again.

—

"What are you doing?" He asked in confusion, staring down at the girl in front of him.

Y/n was hanging upside down off her couch, lips pursed in a pout and eyebrows drawn together. "Looking for a new perspective." She hummed simply.

Tanaka bobbed his head with a nod, as if he understood what she was talking about. "Ahh, I see. Yeah that makes perfect sense."

Y/n snorted at his mocking tone, "If you're going to be snippy about it, you can leave."

Ryū huffed, "You're the one who invited me, dumbass." He took a spot on the couch next to her, putting his legs up on the back of it and hanging down much like she was.

She simply responded by sticking her tongue out at him. Tanaka copied her.

"What exactly are you trying to gain a new perspective of?"

Y/n's head turned towards him and she stared at him for a moment. Taking in the sight of her best friend. Ryū was beautiful. At least, she thought so. For a bald headed weirdo. Yes, he would argue that he was not bald and in fact buzzed, but she'd simply shrug and say they were the same thing - if only to mess with him further.

His eyes were mesmerizing. Dark and stormy. Reminding her of the sea. She could hear the waves crashing against the shore. His hands, large and calloused, yet warm. Strong. Comforting. His smile, toothy and wide. As bright as the sun. How she adored his smile.

As she gazed at him, she pondered whether or not she should be honest with him.

"Just..." she started, getting lost in his eyes as he watched her. Waiting patiently for a reply. "Life."

And there it was. That smile. Taking up half of his face as he let out a boisterous and contagious laugh.

"You're such a dork, y'know that?"

Y/n's heart squeezed at the sight before her and she let out a chuckle of her own. Reaching over to shove at Ryūnosuke playfully. "Shut up, jack ass."

—

Y/n had been best friends with Ryūnosuke for as long as she could remember. They were neighbors and his older sister often babysat her as a kid. Of course, Ryū would tag along on occasion, as they were around the same age. (She was 9 months younger, but she didn't count that-)

They didn't hit it off instantly. In fact, Y/n thought Ryū to be an impulsive and pigheaded oaf half the time. And Ryū thought her to be a conceded and pristine little brat. But over time they started to like each other more and more.

Now they were practically inseparable.

Tanaka's parents weren't around much, and so he came over a lot. All the time, actually. And because his sister worked as hard as she did, it was usually just him and Y/n. And her parents both worked too, so they weren't always home either.

Not that they minded. They liked it being just the two of them. And had developed a close bond because of that. They even had their own traditions. No one else was apart of it, it was just them. Always had been and hopefully always would be.

It wasn't until semi-recently that Y/n had discovered her feelings for Tanaka.

Truth be told, she kind of always knew. But she ignored them. Pretended they were something else. Forced herself to believe otherwise.

It was fear that kept those feelings at bay. Hidden deep within herself. But over time, the things you bottle up have to come out eventually. As much as she wanted to, she couldn't bottle up her feelings forever.

Sooner or later they were bound to erupt.

—

Y/n's hands clutched at her notebook, crinkling some of the paper from the force. Her heart was beating so fast she was sure it was going to explode. Her palms became clammy and she bit down on her lip to stop it from quivering.

She had come to see Tanaka's practice, like she usually did whenever she had the time.

However, this was not what she came here to see. Ryūnosuke fawning all over Kiyoko. It wasn't the first time she had witnessed it, but each time felt like a stab to the chest.

She hated seeing him get so excited over a girl.

A girl that wasn't her.

Envy ran through her veins and no matter how hard she tried to force the nauseating feeling to go away, it never did. Y/n felt stupid. Getting so overworked, so upset, over a guy.

But this wasn't just any guy. It was Ryū.

The same boy who shoved her childhood bullies off the swing sets when they made her cry. The same boy who would carry spiders outside for her, because while she was scared of them she didn't want them to die. The same boy who snuck through her window every time she had a nightmare. The same boy who gave her his umbrella because she didn't have one, and walked home in the rain instead. The same boy who gave her flowers every year on her birthday, her favorite kind too. The same boy who brought her boiled potatoes every day for a week straight because she was sick and wouldn't eat anything else.

This was Ryūnosuke Tanaka, her greatest and grandest friend.

And he was in love with Kiyoko. Not her.

Y/n waited for Tanaka outside the gym like she usually did. They always walked home together.

However, Tanaka was no where in sight.

Deciding to give him the benefit of the doubt, she chose to wait for him. She busied herself with reading, Y/n always kept a book on her. She had an earbud in as well, playing one of her many playlists in an attempt to further help pass time.

It wasn't until about 45 minutes later that Tanaka actually showed. She snapped her book shut, slipping it away into her bag and doing her best not to show her irritation.

"Hey," she glanced up at him and nodded in greeting. "Hey."

"Sorry I'm a bit late."

She shrugged as if it was nothing. "It's fine. I used the time to catch up on my reading."

"Well at least you got to do that." He teased as the two of them began walking. Y/n rolled her eyes, chancing a glance in his direction. Ryū had his eyes on the sky, his hands were shoved into the pockets of the gray hoodie he was wearing. He hadn't realized she was looking at him, thankfully. He always walked on the side closest to the road, wanting to protect his friends.

They walked in comfortable silence for a few minutes. Simply enjoying the sights and each other's company. Like they usually did. Y/n couldn't help but think of earlier. Of the way Ryū's eyes lit up at the sight of Kiyoko. Of how he showed off for her during practice. How his smile, the one that was as bright as the sun, was directed towards her. Was she the reason he was late?

"So," she breathed out, tearing her gaze away from him just as he glanced in her direction. "Is Kiyoko the reason why you were late?" Her tone was teasing, and she grinned at him as if she truly believed there was no way that could be true. As if it was just a joke between two friends.

Tanaka's cheeks warmed at the accusation and he cleared his throat, rubbing at the back of his neck. "Yeah, actually.."

Her smile instantly fell.

"What?"

"We were just talking and I lost track of time. I didn't mean to make you wait so long. But uh, I've been thinking of asking her out."

Y/n blinked, trying her best to wrap her head around this. "Ask her out?" Her chest tightened and her stomach dropped. Ryū had once again returned his gaze to the sky, so he had yet to notice her rigid posture and the frown pulling at her soft lips.

"Yeah. I've had a thing for her for a long time now, and I think.. I think she might like me too. At least, that's what Noya said." He turned to flash a grin in her direction, but it faltered at the broken expression she wore.

"Y/n? Hey, are you okay?"

She felt like a hot iron rod had been shoved down her throat. She nodded, a bit too quickly and did her best to force a smile on her face. "What? Yeah, of course. I'm fine. Just thinking is all... I'm really happy for you, Ryū." Her voice wobbled as she spoke his name and she bit down on her tongue. Praying he wouldn't notice.

Ryūnosuke didn't look convinced, but luckily, he decided against saying anything. At least, for now. "Thanks, Y/n. So uh.. I was hoping you'd help me with something?"

She couldn't speak, tongue thick and heavy. So she only nodded, being unable to do anything else.

"Do you think you could help me ask her out? I mean- I just- want to say all the right stuff, ya know?" His cheeks were pink, pinker than they were before. And he wouldn't meet her gaze. She was thankful for that, at least.

Her eyes stung with tears and at the sight of her house she began to pick up the pace. Tanaka seemed to notice this, and he arched a thick brow in confusion. "Y/n?"

"Yes." She choked out, quickly making her way to the door and keeping her back to him. Throat tight as she fumbled with her keys. "Y-Yeah, I'll help you. Sorry I just uh, I gotta pee so- I'll- I'll see you later-" she didn't give him a chance to respond as she opened the door and quickly shut it behind her.

Y/n's back hit the door and she stood there. Unable to move. Unable to breathe. Slowly her tears began to slip down her cheeks and then she found herself sliding down the door. Hand coming up to press against her mouth, to muffle her cries.

This was silly.

This was stupid.

She couldn't possibly be crying over a boy.

But no matter how hard she willed herself to stop, to force her tears to stop flowing. They only came faster, blurring her vision and restricting her air flow. Her breaths came out in short bursts, gasping as she wailed.

She pulled her knees to her chest, cradling herself in an attempt to give herself some small form of comfort. As she predicted, it didn't really work.

—

Y/n didn't respond to any of his texts that night. Instead replying in the morning and making an excuse of getting distracted by homework.

Tanaka either bought it, or decided against saying anything.

The next few days were filled with her giving her advice on how to ask Kiyoko out. She decided to bite the bullet and just get it done and over with. She was his best friend, after all. This is what a best friend does. She wanted Tanaka to be happy. And if that meant helping him get together with some other girl, then so be it.

Besides, their special tradition was coming up. And at least she got to look forward to that.

Every year, on the anniversary of their friendship, Ryūnosuke and Y/n would get together on her rooftop and watch the sunrise. No matter what day it was, how tired they got, if they had school the next day. It didn't matter. Because this was for them. Just them. It was a special moment for the both of them and they looked forward to it each year.

That wasn't all they did. They'd usually decorate the roof together, make a little area with pillows and blankets where they could sit comfortably. They'd hang a sheet from a wire connecting to some trees for a makeshift screen and use her small projector to watch some of their favorite movies. They'd make snacks together, which usually would end up in a food fight. They'd snuggle up under a blanket and watch the stars, laughing at inside jokes and reminiscing on memories. Tanaka would pretend he knew constellations and would make up random names for them, pointing to bunches of stars as if they were the real deal.

Sure, it wasn't a grand affair but it was fun. And it was special. It was tradition.

Wednesday, 4:37 PM.

ryū <3

hey, i'm gonna be a bit late

i promised kiyoko i'd

take her home

y/n

hey, that's okay thanks

for letting me know

want me wait for you to set

up and make the snacks?

ryū <3

nah thats okay

you can start without me

—

Y/n bit down on her lip in frustration, staring down at her phone in her hand. He didn't want to help set up? He didn't want to help with the snacks?

They've always set up together.

They've always made the snacks together.

It was tradition. It was part of the fun.

Maybe he'd make it in time to still help out a bit?

Y/n stashed her cell away in her pocket before setting off to work. She placed down a blanket on top of the roof and grabbed a few folded ones for them to use when they were up there. She put up some of her fairy lights and then set up some lanterns. The sheet was next, coupled by her laptop and projector. She tossed up some extra pillows for more comfort before getting started on the food.

Cookies, they were a must. They had them every year. Chocolate chip and gingerbread. Hot cocoa was also a must. She prepared an array of different snacks, some which she had gotten earlier in the week for this very night. She had to travel all the way to Tokyo for a few of them. Their favorite bakery was there and held some fan favorites they had each year. The owners knew them by name. They knew exactly what they came for when they came in around this time of year.

This time, Y/n ended up coming alone. It did not go unnoticed. She claimed Tanaka was busy, which he was, trying to seduce Kiyoko. But that didn't make it any harder.

Everything was ready. An hour and a half had passed and Ryū still hadn't shown.

Y/n was just about to call him when she heard a knock on her door. Strange, Ryū never knocked he always just came in but she didn't think much of it and moved to answer the door.

"Well it's about damn time. What took you so long anyway-" she yanked the door open and stopped in her tracks.

Ryū beamed up at her sheepishly, apologetically, and next to him stood Kiyoko.

"Hey, sorry we're late. We got to talking and time just flew by!"

Y/n blinked, hand still on the doorknob, half tempted to slam the door in their faces. "It's.. fine.."

"Did you get everything done in time?"

"Uh, yeah."

"Oh great! Think we can come in? It's fucking freezing out here."

Y/n was silent for a moment, staring at his arm which was thrown over Kiyoko's shoulders.

"Earth to Y/n?"

The door flung open. "Yeah, yeah, come in." She turned her back to them, eyes stinging as she padded her way to the kitchen.

This had to be some fucking joke, right?

He was messing with her, wasn't he?

"Sorry for coming without warning, Tanaka ensured me it was okay." Kiyoko spoke from behind her and Y/n took in a quiet breath before responding.

"It's fine. Don't worry about it." She flashed a small smile towards her from over her shoulder, trying to remain polite and civil.

Kiyoko sent a small smile back.

"The food looks great!" Ryū hummed, observing the array set out on the kitchen island. "You outdid yourself this time, Y/n."

Said female could only smile. Not knowing what to say. Part of her still couldn't believe this was real.

The three of them helped bring some of the snacks up to the roof, they had to get there via Y/n's bedroom window. Which she found a bit awkward. Kiyoko had never been to her house before. They weren't very close and while she was a nice girl it just felt strange having her in her room.

Perhaps this was Tanaka's way of getting them to become closer? The girl he liked and his best friend. But if that was the case, why did he have to pick tonight of all times? It was their special night. Their tradition. No one else had ever been involved, had ever been allowed to be involved.

Y/n had just finished grabbing the container of cookies as she made her way to the window. Ryū and Kiyoko were already settled on the rooftop. They had a blanket draped over their shoulders and their hands were connected. She did her best not to stare. They were talking to each other, she had no idea what the conversation was about and honestly she didn't care.

She didn't want to sit next to them while they were cuddling, but she didn't have much of a choice. She did her best not to seem stiff and awkward, but she failed miserably.

They had barley been here five minutes and she already felt like a third wheel.

Y/n decided to start one of the movies, as Tanaka and Kiyoko had been talking for the past several minutes while she just sat there. At least this way she might be able to distract herself from this horrendous night. And perhaps they'd shut the fuck up.

The talking did calm down a little, but Ryū was still very much all over Kiyoko. The sight alone was enough to make Y/n's blood boil. She felt so uncomfortable. And she was angry that he brought her here in the first place. This was their thing. Their special night. Their tradition. Sure, it might not have been very flashy. All they did was sit at home and hang out. But it was their thing. They did it every year. They had never brought along other friends before.

And he hadn't even asked if it was okay first.

Y/n was torn between just letting it go and trying to have a good time, or allowing herself to be mad about it. She wouldn't say anything in front of Kiyoko. That wasn't fair to her. It wasn't like she asked to be here, Tanaka was the one who brought her along and said it was okay. But even then, she didn't want to make him feel bad either. Maybe she was just being stupid.

She was torn from her thoughts at the sound of Kiyoko giggling at something Ryū had said. Y/n glanced over in their direction, being unable to stop herself. He had his arm around her shoulders and was feeding her something. She laughed as she took it from him, shaking her head to herself. Their cheeks were flushed and Y/n felt her stomach drop. She started to stand up and make her way towards her bedroom window.

"I'm just gonna go to the bathroom real quick," she mumbled out the excuse, and Tanaka nodded in acknowledgment.

Y/n climbed through the window, being careful not to trip as she made her way inside. Like she had said, she went to her bathroom which was connected to her room.

After closing and locking the door behind her, Y/n turned to face her relfection in the mirror. Her eyes were glazed with tears, but she refused to let them fall. She sucked in a shaky breath and turned on the cold water, splashing her face with it.

Why was this so complicated? She should just suck it up and be happy for him.

There was nothing she could do about it now. Her feelings would have to be bottled up and forgotten.

No matter how hard it may be.

Y/n let out a sigh and dabbed her face dry with a towel. "I can't wait for this shit to be over..."

As she made her way back into her room, she paused in front of her window. Freezing in place at the sight before her.

Her hands latched onto each other. Gripping so tightly they shook. Her eyes were wide and glossy, and she bit down on her lip to stop it from trembling.

Kiyoko and Tanaka were kissing. One of his massive paws was cupping the side of her face and the other sat on her waist. One of her hands cupped the back of his neck while the other sat atop his shoulder.

That was the final straw.

Y/n yanked the window open, causing Kiyoko to jump and pull away from Tanaka at the sound. She closed the laptop and started tossing things inside her room.

"Y/n, what-"

"You guys have to leave."

Ryū arched a brow in confusion. "What, why?"

She shook her head, claiming she'd get the rest later and threw their jackets at them. Tanaka caught them easily. "Don't worry about cleaning up, I can do it." Y/n said, waving Kiyoko off as she reached to help with a food platter.

The two shared a look before following Y/n inside. She started carrying the food in, quickly putting them on the kitchen island. Before she could slip past them to grab the rest, Tanaka reached over and grabbed her arm. Holding her firmly in place. "Y/n, stop. What's goin' on?"

Y/n looked up at him, biting the inside of her cheek to contain herself. "It's nothing-"

"Well, clearly it isn't. We've barley been here an hour-"

"My cat is sick!" She blurted. Being unable to come up with a better excuse.

Ryū's eyebrows furrowed. "Toji? He looked fine earlier-"

"He's sick. He was throwing up when I came in." She sputtered, sticking to it and hoping Toji was hiding somewhere- that was until she saw Toji brushing up against Tanaka's leg. He sent her a look.

"He seems fine to me."

Kiyoko bent down and gave him a scritch, the feline let out a little mew. Purring as she pet him.

Y/n's face paled and she quickly yanked herself out of Tanaka's grip and reached down to grab her cat. Cradling him in her chest. "No, I think he ate a toxic plant - I thought I saw him eating something and I wasn't sure before but-but now I am! So you guys need to go."

She ushered them towards the door, Ryūnosuke nearly tripping over his own two feet as she did so. "Y/n-"

"I'll call you later. Promise." She sent him a tight lipped smile and made no hesitation to quickly slam the door shut once they were outside.

Toji wriggled in her grasp, but she didn't let him go. Not until a few minutes had passed and she was sure they were gone. The fat cat jumped from her arms and went to go munch on some leftover kibble in his dish. Y/n watched him with a teary gaze. Silent and still. She sniffled, reaching up to wipe at her eyes harshly.

This was shit.

This whole evening sucked shit.

Their tradition felt lame. It felt like he didn't even care about it anymore.

She was done with it. She didn't want to deal with these stupid feelings anymore.

"Stupid Ryū.." she cried, shuffling over towards the island and snatching up a cookie. She practically shoved the entire thing in her mouth, muffling her cries.

"Fuck.." She sniffed, "I hate men."

—

A week went by and Y/n did her best to avoid Kiyoko and Tanaka. She barley responded to his texts and definitely didn't answer his calls. Y/n felt it was best to take herself out of the equation. It was too hard to be around the two of them. Especially right now. Maybe once her feelings for him faded a bit?

She dodged him as best as possible, saying she was keeping a close eye on Toji and she had lots of homework to do anyway.

But keeping away from him provided to be more difficult that she originally thought. He was a persistent mother fucker. He obviously knew something was wrong, or off, but no matter what he did or how hard he tried, Y/n wouldn't tell him what. She'd just brush him off and tell him she had something to do. Then she would leave. She hadn't been to any of his practises either.

Ryūnosuke didn't know what was going on, but he was determined to get to the bottom of it.

Y/n opened her locker to get a textbook she needed for her final class. She was listening to music in a poor attempt to drown out her sorrows. Feeling a hand on her shoulder, the female jumped and whipped around. Hand coming up on instinct and slapping the person's face. Her mouth droppen open and she yanked out an ear bud. "Ryū! What the hell! You scared the crap out of me!"

Tanaka cradled his face, eyes wide in surprise before he let out a burst of chuckles. "Damn, Y/n. You're stronger than you look."

Said girl scowled. "Yeah.." she mumbled, not sure what else to say. She turned back towards her locker and started putting away a few things. "Did you need something?" Y/n was trying her hardest not to get upset. But it felt like someone had shoved cotton down her throat and she really wasn't ready to be this close to Ryū yet. She just needed some time...

"Actually, I did want to talk to you about something." He leaned against the lockers next to hers, sliding his hands into his pockets.

She let out a sigh. "I really don't have time right now, I need to get to my next class-"

"It'll only take a sec." He reasoned, taking her silence as a 'go ahead'.

"Look, I know you've been avoiding me lately and I just want to know why-"

Y/n scoffed, shaking her head to herself bitterly. Tanaka's eyebrows furrowed as he studied the sour expression on her face. "What?"

"It's nothing." She snipped, struggling to put her textbook into her bag. Fumbling with the opening as she tried to get herself to calm down.

"Well clearly it's something."

"Just drop it, Ryūnosuke." Y/n spat, shooting him a glare in frustration. Her chest was growing tight and it was starting to feel all stuffy in here. She finally got her textbook into her bag and slammed her locker shut.

Tanaka watched her in surprise, she never called him by his name. It was almost always Ryū. "No, I'm not gonna just drop it." He kicked himself off the lockers and moved in front of her, blocking her path.

"Move."

"No."

Her shoulders sunk. "Get out of the way."

He rose his brows, staring at her challengingly. "Not until to tell me what's going on."

Y/n ran her tongue along her teeth, once again shaking her head. "I'm not dealing with you right now." She moved to step past him but he grabbed her, stopping her from going anywhere.

"Y/n, I'm bein' serious. Tell me what's wrong." He pleaded, stormy eyes searching her own relentlessly.

"So am I. Now let me go." She demanded, trying and failing to get away from him. Her eyes were starting to sting and she knew she had to get out of there fast. Lest she break into tears in front of him.

"I will if you just tell me-"

"I don't want to do our tradition anymore!" She snapped, hands balling into fists, nails puncturing her skin.

Ryū's eyes widened and he took a moment to take what she said in. "What?"

"It's stupid, and it clearly doesn't matter to you anyways, so I'm done. I don't want to do it anymore." Y/n's voice cracked and she bit down on her lip to stop herself from saying anything more than that.

"What are you on about? Of course it matters to me." He huffed, completely taken aback by her words.

"Well clearly, it doesn't." She argued pathetically.

"Is.. is this because I brought Kiyoko over?"

Y/n let out a dry chuckle, lowering her head and blinking furiously to try and stop her tears. Just hearing it stung. It felt like a slap in the face. A bitter reminder of that horrid night. "It's our thing, Ryūnosuke. Ours. Not anyone elses. You should have called me, you should have asked first before just bringing her over."

"You're right. I'm sorry I didn't check with you first. But I didn't think it was a big deal. It's not like it's a super important tradition or anything."

Her gaze snapped up to his. "Not important?" She asked, ripping herself away from him.

"Y/n, I didn't mean- hold on a sec-" she tried to get past him again but he grabbed her once more, directing her back in front of him.

"It is important just not like... super important, y'know? It's just some silly thing we started doin' as kids. I thought it would be fun to bring other's into it." Tanaka reasoned, but Y/n shook her head.

"Well, it doesn't matter now. Because it's done. I don't want to do it anymore."

"Y/n, come on, you're seriously going to stop doing the tradition over something this stupid-"

"Yeah. I am."

Ryū's eyebrows came together in frustration and he clicked his tongue. "What is the matter with you? You haven't been acting like yourself."

Y/n rolled her eyes, fed up with his pestering. She just wanted to leave. It was too soon. He should have just let her go. "You're the one who isn't acting like themselves. Kiyoko this, Kiyoko that, fucking bullshit." She hissed, yanking a hand through her hair in agitation. She hadn't meant to let that slip out but she couldn't help herself. He had her cornered and she needed to get the hell out of there.

Ryūnosuke stared at her in shock, but before he could get another word out, Y/n removed herself from his grasp and stormed into the girl's bathroom. Slamming the door behind her.

It was too late to stop her tears now. Y/n cursed under her breath, glad no one else was in here. She started to fan at her face, hoping it would help. It was a futile attempt.

"Y/n, wait. Come back!" She heard Ryū's voice through the door and she puffed out her cheeks in agitation.

"Go away!" She choked out.

"Y/n, c'mon. I wanna talk about this." He leaned his head against the door, hitting the wood with a small thud.

"What did you mean by all that?"

She snorted at that, scrubbing at her eyes, thankful that she wasn't wearing any makeup or mascara to smudge.

"Y/n, don't make me come in there. You know I will." Ryūnosuke huffed, cringing as some passerbys sent him strange looks.

She shook her head, even though she knew he couldn't see her. She quickly slipped into one of the stalls, closing the lid and sitting down on the toilet. She buried her face in her hands and pray that he wouldn't come in or hear her crying.

Tanaka let out a sigh before pushing the door open and storming inside. He couldn't see Y/n anywhere but there was only one stall closed so he walked over to it and kicked the door open. Spotting his best friend sniffling into her hands, whilst sitting on the lid of the toilet.

He crouched down and placed a hands atop her knees. Giving them a gentle squeeze.

"I could have been peeing." She grumbles out angrilly and he cracks a small grin. "Y/n.. Talk to me. Please."

Y/n lets out a puff of air, peeking at him with red puffy eyes through her fingers. Ryū sends her an ecouraging smile, thumbs brushing against her legs softly. She wets her lips with her tongue nervously. "I'm happy for you, Ryūnosuke-"

"Stop calling me that."

She sends him a look.

"It's Ryū."

She snorts at this, rolling her eyes before continuing. "I'm happy for you, Ryū. I truly a-am. I don't want you to th-think that I'm not. I'm your best friend and if you're happy, I'm h-happy. But I can't help the aching feeling in my chest. I'm s-so scared of losing you. I don't w-wanna lose y-you. I just... I just need time. I dunno."

His eyebrows come together again as he processes this. "Is this about Kiyoko?"

Y/n deadpans. "No, it's about Nishi, you dumb fuck."

Her chest tightens with the realization that she's already said too much. And with the soft look on his face, she feels her heart stutter within her chest. Suddenly she's very aware of where his hands are. And she starts to shake her head. Trying to stand up and push Tanaka off of her.

"J-Just forget it, f-forget I said a-anything." She started, wishing this conversastion had never happened in the first place.

Ryū stumbled a bit, catching himself on the edge of the door before he could fall. He quickly stood up and grabbed Y/n by her arms, stopping her from going anywhere. He pinned her against the wall of the stall. "Y/n, stop! You can't just say all that stuff and then dip!"

"Yes, I can. I j-just did! Now let me go, Ryū!" She tried to get out of his hold again, but this time he wasn't letting her go anywhere. Not without a proper answer.

"I'm not letting you go anywhere! I don't understand, I know I can be a bit dense about this kinda stuff so I need ya to tell me straight up!"

"Ryū stop!" She wailed, pathetically trying to push him off of her.

"No! Tell me what's wrong! Tell me what's going on inside that thick head of yours! Tell me how I can fix this!" He begged, not meaning to yell at her but being unable to help himself.

"I like you, asshole!"

Ryūnosuke's eyes widen and in his moment of surprise, he losens his grip a little. Before he realizes, Y/n manages to shove him off of her. She pushed past him, a heap of tears, and runs out the bathroom.

Leaving Tanaka standing there dumbfounded. Eyes wide and breath hitched in his throat.

Man, he's really fucked up now...

[hope-you-brought-kneepads-bitch]

A demon's victims

Summary: You're a demon in the year 2023 and all you want is some fun and a new girl, well exactly what your looking for walks into a cafe you were occupying, maybe your hundreds of years of being around was finally about to pay off, especially when Wanda's ex interrupts you

Also demons are known in this universe but they're not just walking around, so it's still a little unusual seeing them around

Relationships: Wanda Maximoff x Natasha Romanoff (platonic/best friends), Wanda Maximoff/Demon!Reader, Natasha Romanoff/Demon!Maria Hill

Characters: Wanda Maximoff, Demon!Reader, Demon!Maria Hill, Natasha Romanoff, Loki

Warnings: Minors DNI! Blood, swearing, talking about Smut (no actual smut, not yet ;)) Let me know if I've missed anything

Words: 3,900

A/N: There will be a part two but I don't know when it'll come out, probably soon though

“She’s so pretty” you looked across the room at the lovely brunette that just walked in, looking around nervously but when her eyes finally settled on who she was looking for her body relaxed and she smiled making her way over to her friend

Loki scoffed as he watched you basically drool over a stranger “don’t you have any dignity?”

“Says the riddler knock off to the spawn of satan” you spared a glance to the man giving him a wink and looking back at the woman now sat with her friend laughing about something

“So what’s your plan? Stare at her like you’re in a romance movie until she falls in love with how possessive and crazy you are?”

“Hey! I’m not crazy” you said taking the brownie from the man’s plate and eating it

“But you are possessive?”

You laughed “damn right I am, what’s mine is mine and no one can take those things from me” your head perked back up after hearing her laugh again “and I can’t wait to have her all to myself”

************************************************

“Nat stop you’re too funny!”

“I'm not lying though Wanda! He's so robotic, did it feel like doing it with a toaster?"

Wanda shoved Nat playfully getting her out of the solum mood she was in "seriously Wanda I am sorry about the whole thing, but maybe its for the best, let's go out tonight!"

"Oh I don't think-

Nat carried on "shh its gonna be great there's a club near here, and we'll definitely be there"

Wanda sighed but agreed none the less "okay sure, yeah it'll be fun"

You smiled overhearing the whole conversation and turning to Loki

"Time to get your dancing shoes on"

He groaned "why do I have to go with you?"

"My wingman"

"You have your own wings Y/n I don't need to hold them"

You really didn't think you'd have to explain a simple sentence to a man younger than you

"Loki I'm thousands of years older than you why do you act older than me?"

"Just to piss you off"

The music was way too loud for you and you absolutely hated it but anything for a pretty woman

"Fix your face Y/n" Loki pushed a drink into your hand bringing you out of your thoughts "I will when she walks in, we've been here 2 hours and she hasn't come yet"

"Don't be so sad my little demon, look who just walked in" Loki gestured to the door and you quickly spun to look and see Wanda and her friend walk in "oh wow, she looks incredible"

Loki scoffed "she's in jeans and a t-shirt"

"You're wearing khakis you dork" you spat back but the man just laughed "yes but I'm not trying to manipulate a woman"

You rolled your eyes " not manipulation, more like coercion using my incredible flirting skills"

"Well go on then, go and get your little victim"

You straightened yourself up downing the rest of your drink and kissing Loki on the cheek to which he pushed you away quickly "you know I hate when you touch me!"

"I love you too my green obsessed little weirdo"

*******************************************************

"So you're completely sure you're not looking for anything?"

Nat had been looking between Wanda and a figure in the corner when she asked and Wanda looked at her oddly "why do you ask? And who are you looking at?" Wanda spun around searching for the figure and her eyes landed on you

You blew her a kiss in response and a wink making the woman blush and Nat giggle, turning around she slapped Nat on the arm "hey! That hurt" Nat joked "She's been staring at you ever since we came in"

Wanda smiled "do you think she likes me?"

Nat rolled her eyes "Wanda I mean this in the best possible way, it doesn't matter if she likes you likes you, she probably just wants to fuck you and that's fine! Go have fun"

"Nat! Why do have to be so crass?" She turned around again taking a glance at you, when you waved back she turned back and took a deep breath "okay I think I'm gonna go over" she didn't move and that made Nat laugh

"Wands you actually need get up and do something"

She shook her head "I can't"

***********************************************************************

"Bless her, she's nervous, good that'll make her blood taste better"

"I don't know what you're narrating but it's weird" Loki slid up to you pulling you out of your thoughts and you jolted "dude! I was in the zone"

"That was awful never say those words again"

"Anyway, see you later" you started walking over the two looking to the bartender for two whiskeys which you picked up on the way

"Hey pretty ladies, whiskey for you both?" You placed the drinks down onto the table standing above Wanda seeing the blush crawl up her neck

"Why thank you handsome" Nat graciously took the drink taking a sip "mhmm sweet, thanks"

You offered her a sweet smile "only sweet drinks for some sweet ladies"

You watched the two exchange glances back and forth and decided to take the first move placing your hand on Wanda's shoulder feeling her tense "are you okay princess? You seem a little tense, do you need some air?"

When she didn't answer Nat answered for her "she definitely needs some air, I trust you to take care of my girl"

"I'll return her in perfect condition"

Nat nudged Wanda making her jump up and practically in your arms making you laugh "a little jumpy? Come on?"

You looked to her friend

"She's called Wanda and I'm Nat"

You thanked her "thanks Natalia, I'm Y/n, come on Wanda"

*****************************************************************

She hadn't said anything since you took her outside "are you okay Wanda?"

She quickly nodded "y-yeah I'm okay just nervous I guess"

You smiled holding in a laugh "there's nothing to be nervous of, I do want to say you're very pretty"

She looked up at you and you put your hand on her face stroking her cheek with your thumb

"You think I'm pretty?"

You nodded "I think you're fucking beautiful actually"

She smiled pushing forward to kiss you suddenly making you pull back suddenly, something you definitely didn't want to do looking at her now shocked face

"Oh god I'm so sorry-

You shushed her with your finger "no no Wanda it's okay I just wasn't expecting you to be so forward"

She started shivering and you pulled off your jacket giving it to her "let's go back inside, if you still want to suck face there's a private room I have a key too"

Wanda smiled at you hugging the jacket tighter around herself "this is not going as well as I thought it would do, I've just come out of a 4 year relationship with a man"

You chuckled "you're so cute, if you want to take things slow I understand"

She shook her head "no no I need to do something stupid"

"Trust me I am so stupid, I didn't even know my best friend was flirting with me until they flat out asked to sleep with me"

Wanda looked at you oddly

"Oh I didn't sleep with him, definitely not into men, anyway come on it's going to rain"

You led her back into the building but instead of going back to her table you directed her through a small room closing the door behind you both

Wanda looked around the small room admiring the small amount of light throughout the room and the small refrigerator

"Theres some water in there if you want one" you said sitting down on the small couch leaving a space for Wanda which she took gladly scooting herself close enough to you that she was basically on your lap so you decided to fill the gap pulling her onto your lap straddling you making her squeal

"Y/n!" She laughed grabbing your shoulders to keep from falling and nuzzled her face in your neck

"You were practically on my knee anyway so why not?"

There was a nice silence that filled the air for a few moments before Wanda lent forward asking to kiss you this time, you smirked and lent forward connecting your lips, soft as first but then turned hungry with both of you fighting for dominance, you won that battle when your fingers dug into her hips and she gasped letting your tongue in

When air finally became a problem, for Wanda at least, you and your demon lungs couldn't care less, she pulled back breathing heavily "woah, you're great at kissing"

You both laughed still keeping close to each other "so, am I better than a man?"

She lightly slapped your arm "don't bring him up when I'm straddling you"

There was a sharp knock on the door making you both jump and Wanda quickly eft your lap much to your dismay "I'm killing whoever just interrupted us"

begrudgingly you got up and opened the door and it slammed opened nearly knocking you over

"Wanda what the fuck are you doing with this fuck girl?!"

The man stormed in with a stressed looking Natasha behind him, when you glanced at her she mouthed a sorry

"hey woah who the fuck are you?" You tried remaining calm but this douchebag wasn't helping you

You looked to Wanda who was looking to the floor scared to say anything so you tried again "hey dickhead!" He finally looked at you "are you her ex?"

He rolled his eyes "we're on a break but she didn't say anything about fucking other people"

Nat scurried behind you hugging Wanda close while you dealt with the situation "okay well I was under the impression that you two broke up and I'll be honest by the look of Wanda right now she's right"

He scoffed squaring up to you and you had to hold back a laugh "oooh big man are you? How about you calm down and just take a fucking seat"

He didn't listen and pushed you

"Ooooh okay I see how this is going to go" you laughed pushing him back to the ground with strength that surprised him "what the hell?"

Your eyes glowed red as you knelt down to him close and growled "you need to stay away from Wanda, if I hear you have come anywhere near her I will make it my mission to make you so fucking miserable for the rest of your pitiful life and it won't be a long life trust me"

To Wanda and Nat they couldn't hear anything you were saying and Wanda was getting nervous "what's happening?"

"I don't know Wands, it'll be okay though, were you enjoying yourself before we barged in?"

The woman blushed and Nat resisted shouting in joy instead whisper shouting "oooooh you little devil, I don't blame you, she's really hot"

At that moment Wanda's ex jumped up and bolted for the door, you turned around still with your red eyes and looked at the women "he won't bother you anymore princess"

"What's wrong with your eyes?...."

You sighed deciding you couldn't be bothered to hide anymore, maybe they wouldn't run out of the room screaming "I'm a demon okay? A soul sucking hell dweller who thrives on the pain from humans"

The women looked at you warily so you stepped forward giving your hand to Wanda to grab which she did "Wanda, what do you have to say?"

"You're a really good kisser" it was a whisper but you heard it laughing along with her

"Wanda are you serious? She's a demon! Pretty sure they are evil"

The woman shrugged "honestly Nat I've been through so much shit what's the worse a demon could do?"

"You're amazing, I can't wait to get you in bed" you yanked her close, kissing down her neck sucking purple marks into the skin hearing her groan but pulled away not wanting to get ahead of yourself "you're going to be my favourite meal"

Nat was sick of being left out "well if we're sleeping with demons now do you have a friend? I imagine demons are hard to come by separately"

You laughed "actually I do, do you like men or women?"

Nat was taken aback but answered "oh you do? Okay women"

"Okay" you fished your phone out of your pocket dialling a number "hey Maria what are you doing? Well I've got a girl here, no shut up we're not sharing stop asking for it, just get down here now, yeah she's really hot"

You waited a minute before turning to Nat "what's your blood type?"

"Why?" Nat asked cautiously

You shook your head "just demon reasons"

"O negative"

You nodded speaking back into the phone "O negative, yeah yeah I know it's common, least it's not O positive"

After a few more minutes another knock at the door interrupted you and you hung up the phone going to open the door revealing a brunette woman leaning against the door "is that my suit?"

She rolled her eyes "you have like 800 suits Y/n let me have 1 blue one" she pushed through the door and smiled at the women "hello beautiful ladies" she pointed to Wanda "by the way you're looking at Y/n I can tell you're not mine, but you" she pointed to Nat trying to hide her smile "you want me" walking up to Nat she held her hand out

"I'm Maria"

Nat took a hold of her hand and Maria twisted it to bring it to her lips placing a kiss to her knuckles

"I'm Natasha"

"A beautiful name for a beautiful woman, not to be forward but I have a really comfortable bed and it's so lonely without a hot woman there"

You scoffed "Maria what did I tell you about awful pick up lines?! Its 2023 now, you have to be respectful"

"That was respectful! I told her my bed was comfortable, nothing more respectable than that"

You took hold of Wanda's hand "okay well you two have fun, Wanda and I are going to go"

"Where are we going? I don't really want to leave Nat"

Before you could reply Maria proposed an idea "why don't we all go back to our house? I'm sure Loki can be somewhere for the night"

"Fine, but we're not having sex with these ladies in the same room, last time we did that it didn't end well"

Maria burst out laughing "that sounds so sinister Y/n! We promise nothing bad happened ladies, just a few sore thighs and raw backs, a few bite marks, but no one died"

That didn't fill the two with much confidence so you kissed Wanda on the cheek "I promise you'll be treated like works of art, fragile and delicate"

Wanda shrugged "I'm not that delicate"

Your breath hitched "oh? So I can do whatever I want to you? I can use your body as my canvas?"

Using your fingers you started to trace patterns on her exposed skin under her shirt but Maria stopped you "hey hey I know how you get with your fingers, let's go back to the house, where's you car?"

You shrugged never letting your eyes leave Wanda's body "forget the car, lets just apparate"

"Pretty sure that would make these two sick"

"Not if we distract them with kisses"

Maria turned back to Natasha "we can take an uber if you want to be more comfortable?"

Wanda managed to look away from you to Nat "come on Nat you're normally the one making me do crazy things"

Nat felt a headache coming on, crazy things are good and fine but absolutely fucking stupid sleeping with demons crazy things were not on her bingo card

"Listen to your friend little red, Maria here will take such good care of you"

Nat glanced between the 3 of you and just sighed "thank you Maria I think I'd be more comfortable in an Uber as long as Wanda's okay"

Wanda nodded "I'm absolutely fine Nat" turning back to you "let's go!" She jumped into your arms wrapping her legs around you tight "hold on tight honey" you two apparated away leaving Maria and Nat alone

"Now that we're alone how about we have fun here?" Maria took her suit jacket off revealing a sleeveless shirt showing off her defined muscles

"How are you so muscular?!" Nat blurted out quickly covering her mouth is slight embarrassment but Maria just laughed throwing her jacket to the sofa "oh honey I am a demon, I love going to the gym and pissing men off with my muscles"

Nat was stunned "god you could bench press me so much" she whispered and Maria smiled "I could do so much more than that detka"

Nat gasped "you speak Russian?"

"I know you're Russian, so why not try and impress you"

"If you can cook I'll get on knees right now"

Maria smirked "I make an incredible beef Wellington"

Nat laughed stalking forward kissing Maria hard both of them falling onto the couch, Nat straddling Maria and Maria placing her hands on her hips, when she pulled away Nat was breathless while Maria wasn't "it's weird how you don't have breathe"

The demon shrugged "I find it helps in certain situations"

Nat rolled her eyes knowing full well what she meant but refusing to acknowledge it

"I do want to ask a favour from you"

Nat raised an eyebrow "oh?"

"Let me taste you"

"Taste me how?" She said with a suggestive tone

"Well eventually the way you're thinking off, but no I mean something sweet and red" Maria licked her lips honing in on her neck

"Woah! My blood?!" Nat tried pulling away but Maria kept a close hold on her "shh honey I promise it'll be fine, why do you think Y/n asked for your blood type?"

"Well I was little preoccupied actually, I still can't believe any of this!"

Maria calmed Nat down "okay okay, have you ever given blood?"

Nat nodded still not relaxed in Maria's hold but not trying to move away much "it's just like giving blood, two little pin pricks in your neck, a slight pain and some dizziness then you're all good"

Maria's logic made a little bit of sense but Nat was still unsure "you won't kill me?"

"I wouldn't kill a beautiful woman like you, I promise just a little bite and then I'll fuck you so hard you forget all about your neck pain"

"Okay"

"Maria grinned gently grabbing a hold of Nat's hair pulling to the side for more access to her neck. She kissed a sweet spot hard making it tender enough for her fangs to go right through it.

"Relax honey, your heart is racing, it'll be a lot less painful if you breathe, come on let's breathe"

Nat relaxed and focused on her breathing then on the feeling of Maria's hands that started stroking the skin on her back, gently scratching her

"That's it" Maria said finally piercing the skin feeling the blood coat her mouth making her groan at the taste

Nat's legs started to give out and Maria felt that gently sitting the both of them down on the couch still drinking the blood, when she finally had her fill she slowly pulled away licking the holes until they sealed up.

Nat's body was slightly limp weakly pulling herself up to look at Maria "hey pretty girl, thank you for letting me drink from you"

"Mhhph okay" her eyes closed and she was asleep in seconds sticking to Maria's body "yeah, I think we'll be keeping you two, if Y/n can get Wanda to give in just as easily as you"

Maria kissed her cheek leaving a blooded mark making her giggle, what a fun time she'll have with her in the future

*******************************************************************

"Jesus Christ that was wild, give me a few minutes please" you placed Wanda down on your bed kissing her forehead "I know baby it's okay it's a little weird as first but it gets easier every time"

"So I have a little question for my pretty girl" you asked walking to your closet to take your suit jacket and shirt leaving you in a sports bra and trousers, Wanda was watching you closely half paying attention

"You can ask me whatever you want wearing that"

You laughed going back to the bed sitting next to a now sat up Wanda "good, so obviously I'm a demon and I'm glad you're okay with it, but do you know what that means?"

Shaking her head no you let her straddle you letting her get comfy before continuing "it means that I like to drink blood"

"Like a vampire?"

You closed your eyes growling "no and don't ever compare me to those soul sucking leaches ever again"

"Oh okay, I'm sorry"

You soothed her stroking your hands along her jean covered thighs "it's okay, vampires and demons just don't get along that well, anyway the reason I say about drinking blood is because I think you'll have some delicious blood"

"You want to drink from me?" She asked innocently and you loved it "yes princess, I promise it won't hurt much, just like two pin pricks in your neck"

Your explanation made it slightly better "okay you promise you won't hurt me?"

You chuckled "what happened to not being delicate?"

"Yeah well spanking me and biting me are two different things" your eyes widened "spanking? Bloody hell Wanda, maybe I'll skip the blood"

You both laughed but you couldn't wait anymore, you started kissing her neck, finding a spot you liked sucking hard making the skin soft enough for your fangs, when it was soft enough you pierced the skin hearing a groan from Wanda making you suck harder, fuck her blood was delicious!

Having your fill, you finally stopped drinking and licked the holes in her skin to close them up "thank you princess for letting me drink from you"

Wanda's whole body felt heavy with her whole weight on your body, she was definitely sleepy "you can sleep honey I'll be here when you wake up" Wanda's eyes were closed already, yep definitely asleep already.

Your phone in your pocket buzzed making Wanda shift slightly but you shushed her kissing her hair when she stopped, you looked at your phone

Maria to Y/n

How'd you do?

She's delicious

We're talking about blood right?

For now ;)

Ugh whatever, Nat's blood is good too, so we keeping them?

Oh hell yeah!

Your phone buzzed with another message from someone else

Loki to Y/n

Did u get your victim? I came in the house B4 but heard groaning so left

For the love of satan just start spelling things correctly!

But yeah I did and so did Maria, you can come back into the house she's asleep

Asleep? Did a bad job did u?

Fuck you I just drank some of her blood so she's very tired now

Yeh K sure that's the reason

😠 don't you ever 'K' me again you asshole!

🥰 Luv u

You threw your phone to the side choosing to kill Loki later letting yourself lay down bringing Wanda with you making her comfortable "we'll have so much fun together"

[kandisheek]

FIC REC WEEK 41 – FRIENDSHIP

RHODEY & TONY

Emergency Contact by whumphoarder

Pairing: Rhodey & Tony Rating: G Words: 4,042 Tags: MIT Era, Hurt/Comfort, Sick Tony

Summary: It’s not that James disliked his roommate, it’s just that they didn’t exactly get off on the right foot. Or, in which fifteen-year-old college freshman Tony Stark needs a ride to the ER and James Rhodes is too responsible for his own good.

Reasons why I love it: This fic feels incredibly real to me – like, if Tony and Rhodey were real people, this is how their friendship would've started. I love that we get to see the beginnings of Rhodey's affection for Tony and that they have this sort of brotherly dynamic between them. It's amazing, and I hope you go and read it for yourself!

Deposit Security by Reioka

Pairing: Rhodey & Tony Rating: G Words: 3,366 Tags: Mentions of Abuse, MIT Era, Hurt/Comfort

Summary: Tony's always been a little weirdo. Jim likes him anyway.

Reasons why I love it: Rhodey is so patient and kind with Tony, is really great to see. And I loved that glimpse into Rhodey's family life and how Rhodey's mom practically adopts Tony on the spot. It's super sweet, even though Tony's struggle breaks my heart. This fic is amazing, and you should definitely read it!

fly so free (smile down on all you see) by orphan_account

Pairing: Rhodey & Tony, Tony & Peter Rating: G Words: 2,041 Tags: Domestic Fluff, Italian Tony, Tony Acting as Peter's Parental Figure

Summary: Rhodes finds a file in FRIDAY’s databases titled “Tony, Face It: He’s Got You Wrapped Around His Little Finger”, created by someone called May Parker. Of course, he investigates.

Reasons why I love it: The last line of this fic always makes me grin like an idiot. I really love the way FRIDAY teases Rhodey here, their dialogue is super fun. And of course, I'm always a sucker for Irondad, so Tony and Peter being adorable together makes me beyond happy. You should give this one a read, it's wonderful!

Don't Overthink It by Potrix

Pairing: Rhodey & Tony, Bucky/Tony Rating: T Words: 1,883 Tags: Protective Rhodey, Misunderstandings, First Kiss

Summary: Now, Jim is about as straight as a person can be—tested a couple of times by drunkenly making out with his best friend, which Tony loves to bring up whenever it’s really inappropriate to do so—but he has no problem admitting that, objectively speaking, Barnes is an attractive guy. He’s got that whole gruff, frowny, bad boy thing a lot of people are into going on, but whenever he actually does smile, it’s devastating. One time, Jim had seen a girl on the street do a double-take and nearly walk into a magazine stand after Barnes had smiled at one of Tony’s dumb jokes. Or, alternatively; Rhodey means well, meddles, and actually sort-of-kind-of ends up helping in the end.

Reasons why I love it: Aaah, meddling Rhodey, my beloved! His concern for Tony's well-being is so sweet, and I love how he has Tony's back without ever intending to mention it to him. Also, the background Winteriron romance is adorable, they're such dorks in love. Please go and check this one out if you haven't, it's amazing!

Interlude by icarus_chained

Pairing: Rhodey & Tony, Natasha & Tony Rating: G Words: 1,830 Tags: Fluff, Team Dynamics, Rest

Summary: After 48 hours of drawn out global action on behalf of the Avengers and SHIELD, Tony and Rhodey come aboard the Helicarrier for debrief and downtime. People are tired and frazzled, and slighly more unguarded than usual.

Reasons why I love it: This is such a sweet look at the team behind closed doors. I especially loved the banter between Rhodey, Tony and Fury, and how this truly feels like a deleted post-battle scene. Plus, that little sincere Rhodey-Tony moment at the end there made me super happy. I love this one, and I bet you will too!

[whisperluck]

Since I love the Wublin island so much. I might as well talk about my headcannons about the Wublins. You can’t stop me! I will try to remember what I came up with the others from before. Something will change.

First thing first, for what I’ve known the Wublin’s aren’t related to each other. Regardless I see them as like a group of friends that are weirdos. As for ages, the oldest would the first five wublins, Wubbox and Monculus. With that out of the let’s begin!

Brump: (He/Him) The most easygoing guy around, you need a hype man to pump you up? Brump’s your guy! He maybe gross to others but he couldn’t careless, he like the way he is. Plus he is blind, there’s that.

Zynth: (Any pronouns) Doesn’t talk a lot, even when they do it’s inaudible. Zynth uses the most electric out of all the others. Like bright lights and will stare at it until it turns off. It’s tail is always on and makes a good nightlight.

Poewk: (They/Them) A total mystery, no one knows what’s really under that mask. Never speaks, just stares at you. Until they tap in morse code. Loves to knit anything, mostly blankets. Both Poewk and Whajje are the closest to Sceemu and help with communication for Sceemu. Loves DnD but none of the other Wublins know how it’s played. They found out that some members of faerie island are fans of DnD.

Thwok: (He/Him) Looks classic but really a huge dork like the rest of the Wublins. A huge fan of classical music and jazz. Takes good care of his fur which is silky smooth. Due to having a long tongue, he can not talk clear, the tongue stays out and doesn’t go back in. Still has taste.

Dwumrohl: (He/Him) Having many arms, means he can hide a ton of things, mostly snacks. Great at tell stories especially for those who can’t sleep. Loves telling joke and yes, every punch line is ended with a ‘Ba dum tss’.

Zuuker: (He/They) They breath by inhaling from their nose and exhales out of their hole. Don’t stand next to them, he gives off a lot of heat. Secretly an art critic, but he will not be nice and will hurt your feelings. Has really bad allergies and if they sneeze too much fire will come out of their hole.

Screemu: (They/Them) Due to being deaf , they are oblivious to everything. Communication is very hard for them. You can write to them or sign to them. Beware they scream talk sometimes. Have to have someone babysit them, it’s usually Whajje or Poewk. Screemu’s actions/ behavior is creepy to others. But really just goofy. Loves making sculptures with clay, twigs and ribbons. Screemu is also very sensitive and will cry.

Tympa: (He/They) Heavy Metal and Rock fan, like Brump a hype man. However doesn’t think twice, he’s a ride or died friend. Great at playing soccer and likes watching other sports. Due to banning they’re eardrums, they have a constant ringing in their ears. It doesn’t hurt or bother them, just hard of hearing.

Dermit: (He/Him) Shy at first, but when he warms up. He becomes a fun guy to hang out. He’s skin condition is unknown but it’s a fungus. Luckily it is not contagious. To keep him from itchy skin, he has to have a strict skin care routine. Which he hurts doing it because it take so long.

Gheegur: (He/Him) Shy and quiet guy. Soft spoken, hates conflict with his friends. Which rarely happens. Like Thwok he a big listener to jazz. A hopeless romantic along with Whajje, the two watch a lot of romance movies/shows and get too into it. Writes poems about romance and gets embarrassed about it.

Whajje: (She/Her, Trans) The mom of the group, a total sweetheart to everyone. Love to bake. She can only says ‘Whajje’ and everyone understands her. Whenever the T.V is down, she’s the one who has to take place it’s place. During the start of spring and fall, her feathers will shed. Which gets bad and doesn’t help with her self conscience.

Creepuscule: (She/Her) She a hot cheetos girl, will fight for you if someone upsets you. Great at doing makeup and nail art. While doing either, it’s the perfect time to spill the tea to her. Has no content of time and bad at planning things. Like Brump, she’s love the way she looks and makes you feel beautiful too.

Blipsqueak: (It/Its) The smartest of the group, however it can only say either ‘Eyes,Ears,Nose,Toes’ which makes them sound stupid. The lasers are scanners, like a laser pointer please do not look directly into it! It can in fact smell, hear and feel things which it’s feet.

Scargo: (He/Him) He’s autistic, due to this the other have to make sure he’s not overwhelmed. Love to fidget with toys like Rubiks cube but mostly just happy to tap he’s hands on something. If he does get overwhelmed he’ll just hide in his shell and scream.

Astropod: (He/Him) The chills and cool bro around. His back shifted different shades of purple don’t stare at it too long or you’ll get dizzy and pass out. If you were to lick him (why would you, gross) but if you do, you will go on a color trip. Just ask Thwok. He’s little hands do work, just with a little help.

Pixoloti: (He/Him trans) Has ADHD, is a huge nerd. Video games, Movies, Comic, Anime, you name it, he’s a fan. He gets big zoomies, like a cat at 4am. He’s hands and feet are switch, he walks on his hands and everything else like grabbing with his feet. He’s whiskers are use to smell things, they will wiggle around to smell.

Bona-Petite: Bona(pink he/him) Petite(blue she/her) Petite is a chaotic little gremlin. Bona just puts up with it and doesn’t bat an eye. The two can not be separated for long or else Bona will fall apart. Love spooky things and anything horror. Petite has a potty mouth and now has a swear jab. Which gets filled monthly.

Maulch: (He/Him) Looks mean and scary, but really a soft guy and smell like fresh mulch. Love to just stop and smell the flowers. He likes to eat his own berries and doesn’t mind the taste. A man of few words. Is Nearsighted and refuses to were glasses for his bad eyesight.

Fleechwurm: (She/They) If you thought Petite was bad. Well, Fleechwurm is worse. She acts nice and innocent, but will turn on strangers and steal they’re stuff. Like gum and candy. The other have to carry them around and they don’t weight no more then a couple of grapes. However, she is only close and will never turn on Scargo.

[sonicasura]

If I can be frank? Neither 10 nor 12 seems like the kind to look for a spouse given what we know of them. As such, it would not surprise me if their better/milder suggestions is Soshiro showing his junk to Kafka. Cause according to those two, twin blades aren't the only thing he dual wields and that got to count for something. Nor are they small.

Its safe to say, Soshiro goes to Mina and Okonogi instead for advice instead after that and a few other similare suggestions. He knows they mean well, but that is just not gonna work.

Awkward dorks in love is one of the best romance types, at least in my opinion. So much fun to have with what one can do that gener. Though this one is a slow burn as it take years for both Kafka and Soshiro to develope proper feelings for each other. Soshiro is honestly scared by trying to change their friendship into something more, as Kafka has become a friend he really don't want to lose due to other not feeling the same.

Kafka is in the same boat. He thought himself lucky that he was able to be contracted to Mina and when Bakko came along it got better. He is crippling lonely no matter what he do. Sure he has his friendships with the humans he befriends and even some old friends in the spirit world as well but as I've said, he's powers makes it dangerous for people to be near him for long. Human, kaiju, spirit and what else you got.

Its something he has gotten used sadly. Even when he had just hatched out of his egg he was alone as his parents had been killed well before he hatched. He saw the skeletal remains. He did not even have siblings as the other eggs in the nest had clearly been eaten given the damage to the empty shells. It got no better as he tried to survive this dangerous world that he is born into. So when that travling merchant found Kafka years later, it was the very first time he got to know kindess and love.

He knows far too well how precious friendships are, as well as how precious true love is as well as he watched his first friend succeed in life and found someone to love and have a family with. On his human's death bed, he told Kafka that he was sure one day Kafka as well will have something like this too. He just knew it. All Kafka had to do was not give up. Which was easier said then done.

If Kafka was still able to see his old friend's ghost, he would see that knowing smile he would sometimes sport when he knew something Kafka did not or saw something obvious that Kafka managed to miss again.

LMFAO Soshiro just stares at both of his uncles and instantly leaves after they give him such crude advice. Okonogi absolutely facepalms because she would ask if he went to them first. Guess even kaiju have such weirdos.

Poor Kafka. He definitely has been through a lot so I can see him being afraid about ruining a friendship like that. Completely unaware that the feelings he has are mutual.

[dorkassghostwriter]

Unova E4 ship headcanons!!

Okay so I love all of these dorks and I love pairing them together (even in a polycule) so I compiled some of my headcanons, with the pairings listed in order of preference. Feel free to use on your fics or art or whatever

GRIMSLEY/SHAUNTAL (OTP) -Weirdos; they are a bit too intense for their own good -Expensive restaurant dates, almost exclusively at night -Grims is always looking for ways to make Shauntal blush -She teases back but that only entices him further -But when they join together to fuck with other people they're invincible -She got him into her nerdy board games, he's too proud to admit he likes them -He loves beta-reading her novels -When making out, she always tries to mess up his hair in hopes he'll get a better haircut -Yes they are kinky, more than any other pairing in here, and Grimsley usually takes the lead

SHAUNTAL/CAITLIN -Caitlin is clingy and Shauntal lets her; she loves having her follow her like a puppy -Shauntal likes to tease Cait about being inexperienced with romance -Darach and Shauntal love to talk about Cait in ways that utterly embarrass the poor girl -Coffee dates; Shauntal needs the caffeine and Cait needs to quench her sweet tooth -Shauntal is exceptional at calming Cait down wheneve her psychic powers flare up -They love swapping outfits and trying out the other's style -Shauntal reads her short stories to Cait aloud -Caitlin's general naiveté brings Shauntal's dommy side in the bed -Still, they like to switch a lot

GRIMSLEY/CAITLIN -"M'lady," "m'lord" -They bicker about trivial stuff in a way that makes you want to scream "get a room already!" -Very extra, even when they aren't trying -They shop around expensive clothing stores and give (sometimes too) honest opinions about the other's outfits -Outdoor chess games! (she cheats at card games so it's all they can do) -They're the most coordinated out of everyone here when doing double battles -Grimsley is a service top to Cait's pillow princess -Though she also likes to dom after he's been particularly annoying

MARSHALL/GRIMSLEY -You'd never guess they're dating until Grims starts acting clingy -Marshall is bad at picking up sarcasm and flirting, and Grimsley loves to fuck with him -Sometimes Grims goes to the gym with him just to watch him and ocassionally go "that's my boyfriend" -Marshall is awkward at formal dates, so Grimsley just takes him to clubs to get shots and fool around -Grims taught him traditional card games and Marshall got too good at them, too quickly -The second Marshall shows any kind of physical dominance, Grims instantly melts -So Marshall obviously tops most of the time; Grims is just that bad at talking back to stronger men

CAITLIN/MARSHALL -These two are stuck together with glue -He used to treat her like she was going to shatter at any moment, but is now way more comfortable around her -They do focus training together so she gets even better at controlling her powers -He's very patient and understanding of her psychic issues, and is very proud of her ability to keep them in check -They love to travel together! -Cait takes the lead in bed, but they usually switch roles pretty quickly

SHAUNTAL/MARSHALL -She's the quirky counterpart to his stoic, awkward self -Shauntal loves recommending him audiobooks to listen to while he trains -She's too good with words for him, who usually gets flustered whenever she snarks at him -Marshall likes picking her up, and she admits it's not much different to flying on Golurk -Their dates often consist of long strolls across Victory Road and other places across Unova -Marshall is pretty vanilla, so Shauntal gets to have a fun time showing him kinky stuff

[putonmyfavoriteshow]

Since you joke a lot about Gastòn b2inh dump in yoir rewatch... give us a hot take about him

My little dumb dumb. Much to say here after I'm about to wrap up s1 rewatch.

This boy is such a little weirdo. An absolute dork. What is wrong with him (affectionate)???

First off he has a collection of varsity sports jacket he's styling all time...but as far as we know this man doesn't play sports besides roller skating?? And even that he says he only does for fun and isn't that serious about it like the others. And S1 he's got bleach blonde in his hair like he's some 90s boy band member.

He also is such a pretentious art guy. He loves to read, dissect cinema, and photography. He's the snobbiest art snob to snob. And when he performs/sings he's always got to be dramatic because I mean he does have the range, but it's just so funny to see coming out of him.

But he idolizes Matteo for some reason?? I respect his loyalty to his boyfriend bestie but the fact that he thinks Matteo is "the man" just is so ridiculous to me when Matteo is the clown of all clowns.

Also the way he flirts shows this, because he acts like an absolute baffoon when he's dating anyone that's not Nina. Calling that one girl Felicity and getting annoyed at her because she only reads magazines? His disastrous relationship with Delfi (even tho a lot of that is her trying to create something that's not there). Trying to hit on resident girlfriends Jim and Yam who both roast him constantly?? Actually, the Jam vs Gastón rivalry was something I wasn't expecting in my rewatch but iconic - the way they love to bug him about Felicity are are obsessed with HER and not HIM, it's just comedy gold.

Also his whole romance with Felicity...help this man he's lucky he didn't get catfished!

He's just a fool. But then when he's with Nina idk the best parts of him comes out? He's so kind, and gentle towards her? He hangs on every word she says, constantly encourages her but without overstepping or mansplaining, and always is honest about his feelings when he's starting to like her but also still thinking about Felicity. Even he himself realizes she's the only girl he can talk to and be himself around. Suddenly he's Mr. Introduce Me To Your Parents

Anyway he's insane. Can't wait to watch his absolute bafoonery in S2 again.

[misty-wisp]

What's asuka's relationship like with the other thieves? Anyone she doesn't get along with?

OHOHO!!!

it really depends on which point of the story we're talking about, since her opinion on them and relationship with them would change over time. So!! Let's say this is when we have the arc with with Sae's palace!

I'm gonna try to be in-depth about this, so it's gonna get really long, haha ^^'

First off, with good old Akiren, if I didn't make it obvious, she would've been REALLY wary of him around the start of the game. Like c'mon, she sits behind this guy who's making lockpicks and bombs in class. She's not gonna think he's a delinquent, she's gonna think he's a terrorist. So her anxiety's gonna be through the roof every time he interacts with her. Also she wouldn't believe the phantom thieves exist so she's. probably not gonna like him or anyone in the gang very much.

But we know what happens!! Ya boi rolls into her boss's palace to save her (and inadvertently get her to awaken her persona) not even like, two days after Madarame's breakdown. Which, while that is a huge time constraint, it's also really funny, so I'm keeping that. So her opinion on him would go from "possible terrorist D:" to "OHHHH so THAT'S why he was making all that stuff!!" I think she'd still be pretty afraid of what this man is capable of, though, despite. that it's akiren here. the massive dork himself. and a fellow theatre kid in spirit.

She'd definitely warm up to him as her social link(oh right i forgot they were called confidants in this game. oops.) goes on though!! I don't remember if I mentioned this, but it basically focuses around getting her back into theatre acting, since she dropped out of the club two years ago as she took on her rental store/meth-cooking job.

So by the time I'm setting this, Akiren would be a good friend!! Like he is with the rest of the gang!! I don't want Asuka to be considered a romance option, though, because that's...we have enough of that...Plenty enough of that...ghghgghghh

Ryuji's someone Asuka is kind of friends with, but not really. I actually haven't put much thought into what their relationship would be(even though I should, because it's one of the best boys we're talking about here) but I think they'd be alright friends. Asuka's anxiety might stop her from involving herself in the shenanigans he gets into with others in the gang, though.

Okay!! Onto Ann! Long story short, they'd be such good besties!!! Could easily be my bias towards Ann(it's not obvious but I fucking love Ann, she's one of my favorite Persona characters ever and it greatly pisses me off how the game treats her) but I think!!! Ann would be the one to get Asuka to warm up to the gang and calm down her anxiety when around them!!! She did the same for Makoto, so I figured hey, why not have her do that for Asuka?? It'd make sense...I think... They're some girls being gals!!! Gals being pals!!!

I wanna say if Asuka's getting anxious or sad over something, Ann would be there for her lickety-split! She needs a friend like that in her life, and by golly gosh Ann's gonna be that friend. Along with the rest of the gang, of course, but Ann especially.

I think Yusuke and Asuka would immediately be kind of? friends? upon her joining the gang since they'd both be welcomed at around the same time. She'd obviously be put off by his...eccentricity, but I think she'd be less weirded out by it as time goes on. Hell, she'd probably be pretty impressed that he proudly acts like the fucking weirdo he is(/pos) since she's so anxious about being normal and stuff. They're not close friends, but they're definitely not just acquaintances, either.

Hoo boy, Makoto...Makoto, Makoto...yeah, she wouldn't like her. Not because she's like, annoying or anything, but I guess just...stuck-up. Serious. Like girl!! Take a chill pill!! Also Asuka would probably hold kiiiind of a grudge against her since. she's student council prez. and she didn't do shit about neither the entire kamoshida situation or. asuka's wholeass situation. she'd prolly eventually get over that though, like the others did.

Makoto's really just...there, to Asuka. She sure does exist.

Now Futaba...Asuka would not like Futaba at all at first, after her palace. Futaba's an annoying little gremin. Asuka has not once met a little gremlin that is this degree of annoying. She does not know how to handle the annoying little gremlin. It's okay, she learns how to handle Futaba eventually. They'd probably be friends, actually, chatting about the light novels and manga Asuka reads. Asuka would recommend Futaba some good manga, and Futaba would get Asuka into Featherman. A mutualistic relationship between otaku weirdos.

Haru's another bestie Asuka would have!! I like to think of her, Asuka, and Ann as a trio of girl best friends. It just feels right. If I ranked how quickly Asuka befriends people in the gang, Haru would be second, right behind Ann. She's enough of a sweetheart for Asuka's anxiety to actually not do shit to her for once!! It's like...have you ever met someone so nice to you, you can't bring yourself to be any nervous around them? Yeah, it's that rare phenomenon.

I've already talked about Akechi, but it's Akechi, so I'm gonna keep talking about him. Asuka fucking DESPISES Akechi to her very core, and for good reason. At least, I'd say it's good reason. She'd act soooo petty whenever they interact, and from the start, too! I said that she'd call him a "defective prick" live on television when the gang meets him and I'm not going back on that statement!! Because she's right and she should say it!!!

And yeah, their relationship is. Y'know. Not necessarily toxic, but MAN, their bickering would get even the rest of the gang pretty pissed off, like godddd, would you two shut up already, we're in the middle of something important. They'd have literary debates of the century. Futaba brings in popcorn every time Akechi says "-insert character- did nothing wrong." and Asuka replies "EXCUSE ME!?" It's funny to watch.

I wanna give them an enemies to friends arc, with Asuka actually letting go of her grudge against him(probably with Akiren's help), but...you know what happens...

It's her fault, anyway.

Oh!! Right!! Sumi exists!! Yeah, uh, Sumi's so detatched from everyone except Akiren I can't even think of how she and Asuka could interact. So ideas for that'll be on the back burner for now.

I do wanna say, though...she'll have very different dynamics with everyone, come Third Semester.

[bbhkjiexofics]

FORGIVENESS IS NOT A GAME - CHAPTER 9

Author: bbhkjiexofics Genre: romance, fluff, angst, slice of life, smut (later chapters), slow burn Au: Idol!Au Warnings: signs of PTSD, domestic abuse, alcohol abuse, strong language, violence, sexual content Pairing: Jongin x Reader (feat. EXO members) Word count: 7.8k

A/N: Here’s the final chapter for this round of updates for FNG! I hope you guys stay tuned because the FLUFF ugh. Deadly. Also…… Smut is coming (?) HEHE. Let me know if you want to be added to the taglist! Enjoy!

Masterlist Series Mini-Masterlist

CHAPTER 9

After begging and pleading with Jongin for him to let you change out of your sweats, he finally agreed with your little puppy-dog pout.

“You really don’t have to change, you know? I’d gladly take you out on a date even if you wore a trash bag.”

You sigh as you hold on to his hands, “I just want to feel pretty. You look so nice, I don’t want to be in sweats on our first date..”

He analyzes your features -- your big doe eyes, how your eyelashes are fluttering, and the way you’re pouting right now. How could he ever deny you?

“Okay, fine..” He sighs and you jump happily, Jongin smiling at you warmly.

“Take all the time you need, sweets.” He gives your hands a small squeeze before you start making your way upstairs to your room.

“Sweets!” Sehun calls out to you and you turn back to look at him.

“We’ll be damned if we won’t be able to help pick an outfit for you.” He crosses his arms to his chest as Junmyeon and Baekhyun stand beside him, signaling that this is not a debate you could win.

“Uhh.. I’m not gonna have you guys be peeping on me while I change.”

“We aren’t pervs, you weirdo!” Baekhyun smacks your arm lightly, causing you to let out a giggle.

“And not to be mean or anything but..” Junmyeon starts, rubbing a nervous hand to his nape as Sehun sighs frustratedly, “Basically what we’re saying is, we’re not gonna have you go on your first date with Jongin looking like you’re about to take Blue out on a morning ride.”

You fake a gasp at his hurtful comment, bringing a hand to your chest. This isn’t the first time you and Sehun have argued over your fashion choices. He would often mock you for wearing the same riding boots every morning and giggle at you when you’d go out wearing jeans when it’s too hot out, the roads probably able to fry an egg at the immense heat of the sun.

But that was before they all knew that you were hiding your scar and it kind of made you feel nervous to have to reveal it to them, not wanting to disclose the story behind it. Though now that they know everything about your past, what is there left to hide?

It would be nice to finally dress up a bit. Especially for a date with Jongin.

A pretty dress would be perfect for this. You thought.

You look towards Jongin and he’s just looking at you adoringly, loving the way the members interact with you and you take it as a sign that it’s okay for these weirdos to help you get into an outfit for your first date.

“Ugh, fine.” You roll your eyes at the three excited dorks as they follow you up to your bedroom.

You lay out three outfit choices as Baekhyun leisurely plops himself down on your bed and Junmyeon takes a seat by your vanity, Sehun is still rummaging through your disarrayed closet despite the fact that you’ve already laid out options for them to choose from.

“Sehunnie, the outfits are here.” You point towards your bed but he just simply ignores you, continuing to sift through your closet, “Sehun, what else could you possibly be looking for?”

He finally glances towards the choices, Baekhyun and Junmyeon giving you disapproving looks as well, “What!?”

“You are not wearing jeans, Y/n.” Baekhyun points to one of the three jeans you’ve laid out and shoves it off the bed. “Hey! Those are my nicest pair!”

He sticks a tongue out to you as you pick up the jeans from the floor, patting it down and placing it back on the bed.

Junmyeon joins Sehun by your closet, eyeing out any options that you could wear to your date when he spots a dress at the back of your wardrobe. All hung up and looking brand new, “That one!”

Sehun pauses as he looks towards Junmyeon approvingly, taking the hanger off the rail to show you the floral dress in all its glory.

“That!? I haven’t worn that in years. I doubt it’ll even fit!” You whine.

“Just try it on! You’ll never know!” Sehun shoves the dress towards you and you pout at him.

“That won’t work on us, sweets. That only works on Jongin.” He grins at you, wiggling his eyebrows and you groan frustratedly, grabbing the dress from him. “If this doesn’t fit-“

“It’ll fit! Just try it on already!” Baekhyun sits up from your bed excitedly.

You roll your eyes as Junmyeon pushes your stubborn self towards the bathroom.

You’re amazed that the zipper was even able to go all the way up, you haven’t worn this dress since you were in university. You haven’t worn a dress in years, if you’re being honest. The last time you got all dolled up was during your last Christmas with your parents.

Even if you didn’t have a full-length mirror in your bathroom to check on yourself fully, your reflection in the mirror hanging above your sink was enough to put a small smile on your face.

I actually feel pretty.

You examine yourself a bit more, turning around to check on the back to make sure there weren’t any loose threads here and there.

The dress was predominantly white and had a pretty pink and red floral design. It had long sleeves and the hem reached just above your knees. It wasn’t too tight but the top part of the dress hugged your torso perfectly while the skirt fluttered beautifully. In fact, it still fit you exquisitely. The cleavage wasn’t that low either but it still flattered your chest area. And there was a tie that you wrapped around your waist, forming a perfect bow that sit perfectly at the side of the dress.

However, when you take one final look at yourself, you’re irked by the sight of your scar. It was pretty evident now -- no jeans, socks, or shoes to hide the hideous scar of your past memory.

“Any minute now, sweets!” Sehun knocked impatiently at your bathroom door causing you to jump a little and you hurriedly take one final look at yourself, patting your hair roughly to remove any strands that may have stuck up when you were changing.

You take one final look at your scar and let out a deep breath before opening your bathroom door, revealing yourself to the three boys waiting for you.

Baekhyun whistled as Junmyeon clapped at the sight of you, “Damn, sweets!!!” Baekhyun gets off the bed to observe you closer.

“Okay, give us a twirl!” Sehun motions with his finger and you begrudgingly turn around for them, rolling your eyes in the process.

“It’s perfect! Jongin could very much faint.” Junmyeon snickers.

“Are you guys sure?” You adjust the hem of your dress, feeling conscious now that the boys were eyeing you up and down.

“Sweets,” Sehun grabs you by your shoulders, forcing you to look up at him, “have some confidence will you?”

You give him a small smile but you drop your head once again, hiding your scarred foot behind your other one and the three catch sight of this.

“You’re beautiful, Y/n. Jongin’s jaw will drop to the floor.” Junmyeon tells you reassuringly as a blush creeps up your cheeks.

“I don’t even have any makeup on..” You rub your arms up and down, taking a step back from Sehun, your confidence diminishing by the second despite their compliments.

“You don’t need it.” Baekhyun starts, “But if it’ll make you more comfortable, we can leave you to it.”

You smile up at him, “Give me ten minutes?”

They nod at you as they make their way out of your bedroom, “Don’t take too long now, okay? I can feel Jongin’s excitement from here.” Junmyeon giggles before you nod at him.

“And sweets?”

“Yeah?”

“You really are beautiful. I hope you know that.” He smiles at you before closing your door, leaving you to start doing your makeup.

Well, well, well. Look who we have here.

Leave. Me. Alone.

You really think getting all dolled up will mask your anxiousness and fear, Y/n?

Shut up!

Oh, sweetie. No amount of makeup can ever hide just how broken you are.

I said, SHUT UP!

You slam your hands on your vanity as you quickly stand up, looking at yourself as you heave out heavy breaths.

You close your eyes and try to inhale and exhale slowly, calming your thumping heart and ragged breathing. You look at your reflection -- only halfway through your makeup. The ticking clock echoing throughout your bedroom filling your ears.

You’re terrified. You don’t want to ruin this. You don’t want your past to ruin this.

You can’t let it ruin what you have with Jongin. And you’ll be damned if you let it.

You calmly sit back down, inhaling and trying to rid off the shakiness of your hands before you put on the finishing touches of your makeup. Just a little blush, a curl of your lashes and some mascara, and finally some tinted lip balm and you’re good to go.

With one final look in the mirror you nod at yourself and put on some cute flats, leaving your bedroom and making your way downstairs to meet Jongin.

When you enter the dining room, all 9 boys were leisurely seated, waiting for you. Sehun who was sitting at the head of the table where you normally sat spotted you first, earning a huge shit-eating grin from the maknae.

The rest of the boys look towards your direction, their jaws dropping significantly and when you lock eyes with Jongin, he was practically shooting hearts out of his eyes at the sight of you.

It’s like all the air was knocked out of Jongin’s lungs. He tuned out all external noises and zoned in on you -- your blushed cheeks, perfect hair, luscious lips, and that dress. It was perfect.

You were perfect.

You suddenly felt self-conscious about the lack of response from the room, the silence slowly eating at your confidence and you end up chewing on your bottom lip, looking at the ground away from the 9 pairs of eyes.

Kyungsoo quickly nudges Jongin out of his hypnotized state, "Stop drooling and get your ass over there." He hurriedly closes his mouth and gets up from his seat and rushes towards you.

“Oh my God..” When you look back up at him, eyes locking, he lets out a sigh, “You are so beautiful, Y/n.”

You can’t help but look away from him as you feel your face heat up. The way he was looking at you, you couldn’t help but feel like you were floating on air.

He made you feel so beautiful – as if he’d never laid eyes on anything so breathtaking in his life.

Jongin was the only one that ever made you feel this way.

“Thank you.” You murmur, shyness suddenly overtaking you as you continue to try and avoid his piercing gaze.

Jongin grabs both your hands, making you look up at him, “I’m honestly so speechless right now.. I’m sorry.” He chuckles nervously and you can spot a tinge of red appearing on his cheeks.

Adorable!

You giggle as well, you both standing awkwardly just basking in each other’s presence and at the fact that this is finally happening.

Your first date with Kim Jongin.

“I think it’s time for us to go.” Junmyeon tells the rest of the boys as they make their way out of the dining room, giving you and Jongin knowing smiles and little winks here and there.

“Oh! Before I forget!” Kyungsoo rushes to the kitchen, fetching a picnic basket and hands it over to Jongin with a wink.

Your eyes widen, “What’s this?”

Jongin chuckles at you as he lifts one of your hands to his lips, giving it a sweet kiss that sends shivers down your spine, butterflies in your belly, and an immense blush to your face.

He looks into your eyes as he plants another quick kiss to the back of your hand, “Follow me.”

“Jongin,” You don’t know why you felt the urge to whisper but him leading you to the back of the green field towards the woods just made it seemed appropriate to not make any loud sounds, “where are we going?”

He only giggles at one of the many questions you’ve been throwing at him as you made your way to the woods.

“You’re not some serial killer are you?”

Jongin pauses as he looks at you, “Do you trust me?”

You sigh at just how beautiful he looks under the moonlight. His sleeves rolled up, his strong hand gripping yours, veins prominent on his arms. How his hair seemed to look more silver than blonde under the night sky, and how his eyes seemed to hold so much tenderness and affection for you – he was absolutely the most beautiful man you have ever laid your eyes on.

“Yes.” You breathe.

He gives you another one of his warm smiles as he navigates you deeper into the woods and you can’t help but feel a sort of familiarity with this path he’s leading you in.

And when he suddenly stops, you are met with a dazzling view of the city – a view that seemed awfully familiar to you but yet in all the years you’ve been living in this house, you have seemingly forgotten about.

As he looks towards you and your wide eyes meet his, fairy lights illuminate you both, hanging from the trees around you and it’s like the whole world just lit up in front of your very eyes.

Jongin has managed to light up your life.

This spot, the perfect night sky that seems to have all the stars in the galaxy twinkling down at you both, the glow of the fairy lights around you, the crisp night air, and Jongin right beside you – everything was absolutely a dream.

And that’s when your eyes zone in on it. That bench.

The bench that your father made for your mother when they first bought this house.

You were rendered speechless. This is why it was so familiar to you. Your parents would take you down here when you were a kid but as you grew older, trips down here became less and less until you just completely forgot about this spot.

“Jongin.. How?” You felt your eyes start to well up from all the past memories that have started to pour in.

He brings you closer to the bench, setting the picnic basket down and looking up at you once again, taking both your hands in his. “The past few days when you were in your room, I would help Uncle Jae take care of your horses. He told me a lot of stories about you and he started interrogating me about my intentions with you.” He chuckles and you shut your eyes out of pure embarrassment as a small grimace overtakes your face imagining what Uncle Jae could’ve possibly told Jongin.

“I told him that I asked you out on a date before everything happened and you agreed but I just didn’t know how to bring it up with you again so, he showed me this spot.”

He looks towards the view and you follow his gaze. He directs his attention back to you as you soak in the city lights in front of you, the moonlight causing your skin to glow, the beautiful smile on your face, and the way the subtle wind was blowing through your hair, he was completely and utterly mesmerized and he couldn’t believe his luck.

Jongin keeps his attention on you as you continue to relish the view, “He told me how your father built this for your mom when they first moved in. How they would bring you here when you were a kid and I just thought it would be perfect.”

You look at him now with teary eyes and he starts to panic, “Oh my God, did I overstep? I’m so sorry, Y/n. I didn’t mean-“

“It’s absolutely perfect, Jongin.” You take a step forward, encasing your arms around his neck as you tiptoe to hug him. Inhaling your favorite smell of cotton and musk and loving the way his strong arms wrap around you in return.

This. This is my safe place now.

You hear him sigh against the hug, “Thank you, Jongin.” You release him and your faces were merely inches apart and it almost causes your breath to hitch in your throat.

“I can’t believe you did all this for me.” Your voice barely a whisper.

He stares at your eyes before scanning all around your face, “Anything for you.” Jongin brings a hand to your cheek and you lean against his touch, closing your eyes and savoring this perfect moment.

You slowly open your eyes to find him staring at your lips, and you could feel the rapid beats of your heart and the way your breath is shortening at the proximity of you both.

Jongin inches closer ever so slowly, his gaze on your lips diverting to your eyes, finding any hesitation from you before he asks what he’s been dying to.

“Y/n..” The way he whispers your name sends shivers down your spine. “Can I kiss you?”

The inches between your faces turn into centimeters, he stops himself from going nearer, just one pucker and his lips would meet yours but he was patiently waiting for your reply.

“Please.” You manage to say before Jongin completely closes the gap.

Your eyes flutter closed as his soft plush lips pressed against yours. One hand gently cups your face while the other rests on your waist. He tasted like honey and the way he moved his lips made your body instantly warm up.

You know those kisses that just made you feel all the sparks? Those kisses that made you feel like you were suddenly floating and made you have a gazillion butterflies fluttering in your belly?

This. This was that type of kiss.

He continues to kiss you as he angles your chin up higher so he could deepen the kiss and you hum in approval, causing him to bring your bodies closer together and you could feel his warmth cover you.

Jongin was completely lost and he might just go crazy. The noises you were making were turning him on as seconds pass and he knew he had to stop himself before he’d get too carried away and scare you off.

You were a piece of fragile crystal that he was too terrified to break.

So after a few more seconds, he begrudgingly releases you as he rests his forehead against yours. His eyes were closed as he brings both hands to cup your face, inhaling the scent of you as he tries to memorize the feeling of your lips captured by his.

“Wow.” He finally breathed.

“Wow.” You echoed, causing his eyes to open to find you gazing at him adoringly, your eyes were crinkled at the sides due to you smiling so widely and if his heart could explode from joy, now would be the moment.

You couldn’t help but bite your lip, trying to taste him again and he sees this and he just couldn’t help it. He dove in for another breathtaking kiss and you giggle as he continues to give you butterfly kisses.

“I think Kyungsoo will get mad if we don’t eat the food that he prepared.” He says in between kisses, not wanting to let you go just yet which causes you to smile.

“You’re right.” And with one final smooch, you peel away from him slowly. He flashes you an adorable pout which causes you to release another giggle and you kiss his cheek which instantly puts a smile on his beautiful face.

He places the picnic mat on the ground and you take the picnic basket, placing it in front of you as he settles beside you, watching you while you take out the food that Kyungsoo prepared for your date.

“Remind me to thank Kyungsoo later.” You say but don’t receive a response from him and when you finally look at Jongin, he was just gazing at you intently. His eyes holding so much adoration and fondness for you and no matter how hard he tried, he can’t seem to find the strength to look away.

“Earth to Jongin?” You tease as you wave a hand in front of his face.

He just continues to stare at you which causes you to blush, “What? Is there something on my face?”

He shakes his head slightly, bringing his hand to cup your face once again, “You’re just so beautiful, love.”

Love.

Your eyes widen instantaneously at the pet name and he giggles at your shocked appearance, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear, “Too much?”

You shake your head immediately, “N-no! I, uhm,” you clear your throat and look away, “I like it.” Your voice was barely a whisper as you look back at him shyly.

He bites his lip as he brings his thumb and index finger to your chin, gripping it to draw your face closer to his, “Then.. Can I kiss you again, love?”

You nod your head in response as you aren’t able to seemingly form words, hypnotized by the sultriness of his voice and the way his eyes turn dark at the sight of your blushed cheeks.

His lips were on yours again, tasting you and he has to muster all the self-control he has to not slip his tongue in yours. So after just a few seconds, he pulls away and moves to kiss your eyes that were still closed. Then he moves to plant kisses on your nose, your cheeks, then your forehead, and lastly, he kisses your lips once more before nudging his nose against yours.

“I can’t believe this is real.” He sighs.

You giggle before kissing his lips quickly and turning towards the picnic basket, continuing to bring out the food that was inside.

Jongin helps you lay the food out on the mat – there was a bottle of wine, plastic cups, sandwiches, melted chocolate, and a pack of strawberries (which Jongin says he got permission from Baekhyun from so it’s all good).

He pours the wine into both your cups, offering you yours before he raises his own for a toast. “A toast.”

“What are we toasting to?” You giggle.

“To the first of many nights under the stars, love.” He gives you the most adoring smile.

You smile back at him before clinking your cup to his gently, “To the first of many.”

Your date with Jongin has been perfect so far. You feed each other strawberries, laugh about the silliest things, and tease each other like you were best friends.

Both of you a little tipsy from the wine but choosing not to go overboard as you both want to remember this moment clearly.

You were laughing hard at Jongin’s story of how they all mistakenly shrunk Sehun’s uniform in high school because they didn’t know how to do laundry at the dorm so Sehun was forced to wear a tight shirt to school the next day.

Jongin was completely in love with your laugh, he couldn’t get enough of it so every time he managed to get a few giggles out of you, it’s like his heart could burst from pure bliss.

“I could listen to your laugh the whole day and never get tired of it.”

You stop laughing, glancing at him before snorting, “You’re just tipsy from all that wine.”

“I’m serious. I think your laugh is my favorite sound in the whole world.”

You turn away from him to face the view, trying to hide your blushed face from him, “And that,” he points to your cheeks, “is the most adorable thing about you.”

You bring your hands to cover your cheeks, making your lips pucker a bit like a fish. He giggles at you, “Stop laughing! Now you’re making me conscious!”

This just makes him laugh harder and you slap his arm to make him stop, “Okay! Okay! I’m sorry, love. You’re just so cute.” He smiles at you as he removes your hands from your cheeks gently and gives each cheek a peck.

“Did I tell you how beautiful you look tonight?” He whispers, his lips were basically hovering over yours.

You roll your eyes playfully at him, “Yes you have, Jongin. You’ve been saying it so much I feel like you’ve programmed your brain to say it every 5 minutes or so.” You tease to hide the giddiness that you feel. No matter how many times he may compliment you, you always feel the same butterflies in your stomach.

He chuckles lowly before he shrugs, “I’m just speaking my mind here.” His eyes gaze at your dress, “And this dress.. This dress was made for you.”

“This?” You play with the bow on the side of your dress, “I haven’t worn this since I was in university.” You laugh nervously.

Jongin has observed that every time you talk about your university days, there is always this nervousness that coats your voice. “Have you ever thought about going back?”

You look up at him with wide eyes, “T-to university?”

He nods, “I mean, you did mention that being a vet was your dream. And honestly, I think you’d be the best vet in the world.”

You laugh at his overconfident tone, “Okay, that’s a bit of a stretch.”

“It’s true though. Uncle Jae told me that you always used to get 4.0 GPAs and you were even on a full scholarship.”

You chew at the bottom of your lip, shy at the fact that Uncle Jae told Jongin things about your university days, “I don’t know..” You shake your head lightly, looking away from him, “Maybe it’s too late to go back now.”

“Well, I can tell that you loved it. And if you love something, you should never give up on it. It can never be too late to get back on the saddle.” He wiggles his eyebrows at you, proud of his pun.

You laugh incredulously, “I appreciate the pun.” Your laugh fizzles out as you start to think about Jongin’s suggestion.

Should I go back? What if it’s too late? What if when I go back, things won’t be the same and I’ll come to realize that it’s not my dream anymore?

“I can see the wheels turning in your head.” He says, a grin coating his voice.

“It’s just scary to think about right now. I don’t know if I’m ready..” You trail.

He cups your face, gently rubbing a thumb on your cheek, “The fact that you’re thinking about it is good enough for now. Don’t pressure yourself too much, love. But it’s always good to keep your doors open, okay? You’ll never be ready when it comes to big decisions like this but you won’t know how far you can go unless you try.”

You look at how his eyes just hold so much care and gentleness. How does he always know what to say to calm your thumping heart and make it feel like it’s about to beat out of your chest at the same time?

“How do you always know what to say?”

Jongin shrugs, “Maybe I’m just a wise bear who happens to have swept you off your feet.”

You slap him on the arm again, causing him to erupt in a fit of giggles, “More like a cocky bear, if you ask me.” You raise an eyebrow at him.

“Hey!” he sits up a little straighter, removing himself from his previous position of laying down on the picnic mat as he rests his head on his propped up hand, “Can’t I be a wise, cocky, and cute bear?”

You analyze his face, making him turn his head from side to side as you suck on your teeth, “Nah,” you shake your head lightly at him, “Bum Bum is way cuter than you.”

He fakes a gasp as he brings his hand to his chest, “Take that back.”

“Nu uh.” You tease.

“Take it back!” He starts to come nearer and you know what’s about to happen. His fingers already wiggling in front of him.

“I said take it back or else I’m going to tickle you.” He threatens.

“You wouldn’t dare.” You stare at him straight in the eyes, a challenging tone coating your voice.

“Try me.” And his fingers go straight to your sides, tickling you until you plop down on the mat, you’re laughter echoing throughout the woods.

“Okay, okay!! I take it back!! Stop p-please!!” You manage to say in between his tickling attack.

“Say I’m cute!” Jongin moves his tickles to your neck and you squeeze your eyes shut as more laughter erupts out of you.

“F-fine!! You’re cute!!”

He finally stops as he laughs at you trying to catch your breath. When you finally open your eyes, it’s only now that you realize that his upper half is hovering over you, his lower half lay on your side and the distance between you leaves little to the imagination as his hands are positioned on either side of your head, caging you.

Jongin sees your eyes widen a bit and your cheeks growing a tint of red. This is his favorite view.

He inches nearer and removes the strays of hair that’s fallen on your face, “I think I like you much more than you think, Y/n.” He whispers just above your lips.

“And maybe I like you much more than you think, Jongin.” You whisper back.

He smiles at you and he licks his lips, his gaze flickering between your lips and your eyes, his desire to taste you once again growing stronger and stronger by the second, “Does this mean I get to kiss you whenever I want?”

You gaze at all the features on his face. From this close proximity, you can basically count all his eyelashes and map out all the little things you love – the crinkles at the sides of his eyes when he smiles, the chocolate brown color of his eyes, his smooth skin, perfect nose, adorable dimples, and his pillow-like lips that you can’t seem to get enough of.

“I think you ask too many questions.” Your voice just above a whisper.

He smirks at your response before he crashes his lips to yours. This kiss was different, it was needier. He moved his head from side to side as your arms wrap around his neck.

He licks your bottom lip and it made you gasp, he slips his tongue in and starts to caress yours. He tasted like wine and strawberries and you hum in approval as he deepens the kiss even more, nipping at your bottom lip as you fist his hair and he groans softly. His kisses moving to your jaw then slowly down your neck and you let out a small whimper.

He bites your neck a bit but before he can give you a mark, his phone starts to ring in his pocket which startles you.

“Fuck.” He mutters against your neck, the ringing turning his frustration into anger by the second at how it just fucking ruined the moment.

He fishes his phone out of his pocket to drop the call and he starts to kiss you hungrily once again and you moan into his mouth, only for it to be cut off by another ring of his phone.

“You should get that.” You said breathily in between kisses, still unable to process fully how he was devouring you.

“I’m busy.” He responds curtly as he presses his chest against yours, closing the gap between your bodies. Even if his whole body wasn’t hovering over you, the friction that his chest elicited against you was enough for you to feel yourself tingling in your core.

You both moan softly as your tongues dance with each other, savoring the combined taste of you both as you spill out your feelings towards each other into your kisses.

However, Jongin’s phone just can’t seem to stop ringing and you can’t help but feel off-put by the noise, “Jongin,” you breathe out as you pull away from his lips reluctantly, “just get it.”

Jongin presses his forehead against yours before sighing heavily, groaning before he mutters an apology before finally checking to see who’s calling him.

When he sees the caller ID, you see his jaw clench and his eyes narrow slightly.

“Who is it?” You caress his cheek and he brings his gaze back to you, softening significantly at the sight of your swollen lips and rose-tinted cheeks.

“No one important.” He shakes his head before leaning back down to give you a peck on the lips, peeling himself off you as he sits back up on the mat. His mood has definitely soured and you can tell just by the stiffness of his shoulders.

“What’s wrong?” You sit back up as well, turning to face him.

“Nothing.” He whispers, not meeting your eyes as he tries to focus on the view of the city’s skyline.

“Jongin..” You move a hand to his chin, forcing him to look at you, “You can tell me, you know?”

His eyes lock with yours as he removes your hand on his chin, taking it in his as he gives butterfly kisses to your knuckles. You smile at the gentle gesture but nudge him once again, making sure he knew that that wouldn’t distract you from your question.

He sighs as he reluctantly meets your eyes once again. He knows he can’t lie to you nor keep any secrets from you.

“That was my mom.”

“Oh.” Your eyes widen, “Why didn’t you answer? It might be important.”

“I told you, it’s not important.”

“Jongin, she’s your mom. How could it not be important?” Your eyebrows furrow worriedly as his expression changes.

“We’re just going to talk about the same thing and I’m tired of it.” He sighs as he lets go off your hand and you slowly move closer to him, wanting to learn more but also not wanting to push him away.

“Do you want to talk about it? I’m all ears.”

He only hums so you continue on, hoping that this would convince him to open up to you, “You know a lot about me and I’d love to know more about you too, Jongin..”

He looks at you and sees just how your eyes have turned doe-eyed and how your lips have formed a slight pout. He leans in closer, “I told you not to pout.” He kisses you softly before sighing and gazing at the view in front of you once more.

You wait patiently for him to speak up and before he does, he breathes deeply, “I’m not in good terms with my sister. Ever since my dad’s funeral, we haven’t spoken to each other. My mom’s been trying to get us both to talk and fix things but I just don’t think I can.”

“Was she the one calling you when we were talking about us the first time?” He only nods in reply.

“Why aren’t you and your sister not in good terms?”

“She said some pretty shitty things to me and maybe, I kind of believe everything she said.” He smiles sadly to himself.

“Like what kind of things..” You lace your arm around his, hoping that this would serve as a comforting gesture for him to open up.

He sighs but gratefully welcomes your embrace, “She said that maybe if I was home more often, he wouldn’t be worried sick all the time. That maybe if I talked to my dad more often, he wouldn’t be wondering about how I was doing. She said that I was the reason why my dad got sicker and ultimately why he stopped fighting to stay alive.”

You were shocked about what you were hearing. How could she blame Jongin for the death of their father? He wasn’t the reason why he got sick. He wasn’t the reason why he passed.

“Jongin,” you firmly grip his arm, “you shouldn’t blame yourself for your dad’s death. That isn’t something that anyone could control.”

“Am I not to blame though?” He chuckles lowly, sarcasm draping his tone. “I mean, she is right. I was barely home, I couldn’t even check up on him, couldn’t even return his calls.” He scoffs at himself.

“Even though you weren’t able to doesn’t mean that you’re the reason he died. Didn’t you tell me he’s been battling this sickness for a while? Why should the blame fall on you?” The sound of your voice was slowly starting to increase as you start to grow frustrated for Jongin.

“Because his last wish was for me to be by his side when he was in the hospital and though I tried to take care of him from time to time, my schedule just wouldn’t allow it. I also worked too hard to be where I am now and he was the one that pushed me to do the things I’m doing – to be able to enjoy what I love the most. I thought that working hard and staying focused was the best way to honor him but my sister thought differently.”

He releases a deep sigh, “She said that I was selfish and ungrateful and that I didn’t bring anything to my father except stress and hurt.”

You gasped quietly. How could someone be so cruel?

He laughs to himself as he reminisces the last time he saw his father. “I was so hurt by her words but funnily enough, I believed her. So I stayed away. Even if my dad would ask for me, I wouldn’t come because I just couldn’t see him in pain anymore knowing that I helped cause his pain..” He trails as you see his eyes start to glisten.

You immediately cup his face so that he could face you but his eyes refuse to meet yours, “I didn’t get to see him and say goodbye..” He grimaces.

“Jongin..” You inch closer, hugging him and rubbing your hands on his back. You didn’t know what to say. You knew a thing or two about grief and not being able to say goodbye but you didn’t know how to comfort someone who felt such immense guilt for something that was not their fault.

Ironic for someone who blames themselves for everything bad that’s happened in their life even though it was beyond your control.

So this is what it feels like.

This is what the boys probably felt as they tried to comfort you when you finally told them about the pains of your past – helplessness.

“Even though we all knew he was sick, I felt -- feel, as though I led him to face death quicker.” You feel him sigh against your shoulder and you hug him tighter, exhaling a breath as you feel his pain, “It’s my fault.” He quivers.

“Shh, shh. It’s not your fault, Jongin.” You pull him away from you, “Look at me.”

He lets his eyes meet yours slowly, the sadness in them causing you to inhale sharply. This is a sight you never want to see again. His pain and sadness has become yours and it’s now that you realized just how much Jongin affects you. How every emotion he feels echoes your soul. His joy could magnify your joy by ten but his sadness can also do the same.

If seeing Jongin like this causes you to feel this much for him, you wonder as well if he feels the same towards you. But with how he always manages to take care of you and make you feel as though you are never alone, that he’s always there by your side, you can’t not be here for him.

Jongin was your safe place and you’ll do everything you can to make sure you’re his.

“You are not to blame, Jongin. What your sister said could have been fueled by her own emotions as well at the time but you should not feel guilty about something you did not do. I know what it feels like to not be able to say goodbye,” You swallow down the lump in your throat as you try and fixate the determination in your voice, “and I understand the guilt eating you away and the sadness and pain you must have felt to not be able to say goodbye to your father. But you are not the reason why he passed, Jongin. It’s not your fault. None of it is your fault.”

You lean your forehead against his, “I won’t let you blame yourself.” You whisper.

“You shouldn’t blame yourself for what’s happened to you either, Y/n..” He trails.

You knew he was right and everything was easier said than done for you both but if being in this journey of forgiveness was going to be hard, you’d want nothing more than to be on that journey with Jongin together.

After a short moment of silence, both your foreheads still pressed against each other, he finally mutters, “I’m sorry. I didn’t want to have anything ruin this date.”

You eye him in disbelief, “You didn’t ruin anything, Jongin. I’m so happy you opened up to me. I don’t ever want you to feel like you have to keep things from me. I don’t want that for us..”

Jongin felt relief rush through him. Not only did you understand his deepest emotions but you've also managed to ebb away all the doubt and guilt that has been creeping up on him for so long.

He doesn’t know how you do it when everyone else has been trying their hardest to help him get by but there was just something about you that ultimately brightens his soul.

And he vows from this moment on to cherish you for everything you have done for him so far.

He pulls away from you as he scans your face, bringing his hand to cup your cheek as he slowly leans in to steal a long and gentle kiss. “Okay, no secrets, my love.”

My love.

You give him a warm smile as you lean into his touch, you can’t help but feel giddy at his pet name for you – a pet name only he can call you. It makes you wonder if these feelings you have for each other are becoming too fast-paced but deep down you knew that everything about this felt right.

He wasn’t Rowoon and he never will be. Rowoon never made you feel taken care of, never made you feel like you weren’t ever alone. Rowoon never made you feel understood or loved.

And it may be too early to tell and even admit to yourself but slowly and surely, you knew that you were falling in love with Kim Jongin.

“You can always count on me, Jongin.” You smile at him, trying to make sure that your tone is convincing enough and relays just how genuine your words are.

He leans in and kisses you softly again, “And you can always count on me, Y/n. Thank you..” He whispers against your lips.

You continue talking, kissing, laughing, teasing, until your eyes start feeling heavy and the alcohol is slowly starting to make you tipsier and tipsier.

You both lay flat against the picnic mat as Jongin points out stars to you, telling you why their beauty could never compare to yours and you smack him on the chest as you laugh to your heart’s content.

He fakes a wince from your hit, “I think alcohol makes you ten times stronger or something.”

“You’re just weak, Jongin.” You snicker.

He brings you closer to him, wrapping you in his arms and cuddling you as you lay your head on his chest and he places a kiss to the top of your head, “Weak only for you.”

You swat at his chest again lightly as you giggle, “You’re such a sap.”

Jongin chuckles at your retort, “You want to head back inside now? Your eyes keep on closing.” He whispers and you’re too sleepy to use words now as you nod in agreement.

He slowly stands up and you reach your arms out to him causing him to chuckle softly as he helps you get up from the picnic mat. You both clean up and make your way back to the house but not before Jongin pins you against a tree, suddenly caging you with his arms as he hungrily takes your lips once again.

His kisses travel from your lips, down your jaw, until finally reaching your neck. He devoured every bit of you he could and savored every reaction he got from you. From how you moan in his mouth, how you whimpered when he nipped on your neck, and how you chest heaved up and down as his grip on your waist tightened.

You make out for what seems like forever until he hesitatingly stops, your eyes are closed and you seem to be chasing his lips unconsciously and he giggles at you, “Can’t get enough, I see.” He smirks, lust coating his voice and you have to close your legs together to hopefully get rid of the warmth you’re feeling in between your legs.

“You’re the one who put me against a tree and started making out with me.” You raise an eyebrow at him, “So I think it’s you who can’t get enough.” You bite your lips and you don’t know if it’s the alcohol or just being drunk on him that makes you have this newfound confidence as your voice drips in seduction.

He licks his lips and his gaze turns darker, if his eyes could strip you off your clothing, you’d be naked right now in the middle of the woods.

Jongin was seriously hanging by a thread from keeping himself from trying to fuck you right here and now.

“Let’s head inside before I do something.. drastic.” His tone turns low and his gaze is hypnotizing. All you can manage is a gulp.

He chuckles at you and just like that, he manages to turn back into Kim Jongin. That sexy demon just a few seconds ago was not Jongin, that was someone else. Maybe that was what people were raving about when it came to him.

Yes, I’ve looked him up, okay? How could I not? And, yes. I’ve watched all the fancams. I probably died and got resurrected several times.

No, that person that just made your core tingle, that made you want to let him devour you with just one look.

That was Kai.

­A/N: WELL HELLO. Told ya’ll smut was coming buuuuut not quite yet. (Please don’t kill me hahaha at least ya’ll got a sneak peek). Anyways, the next chapter will definitely have smut. I PROMISE LMAO. I hope you enjoyed this round of updates! Stay tuned next week for 3 new chapters! I hope you guys are enjoying this story so far! I super appreciate and love all your support and lovely messages. <3

Taglist: @cardtak @taewowacebts

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[elfcast]

MARCILLE DONATO DUNGEON MESHI

a half-elf mage that has been exploring the dungeon for some time now

she looks like a young adult, but she's fifty years old (but you wouldn't ask a lady about her age, would you?)

she can shoot fireballs, blind people, heal you, help you walk on water, raise the dead and other dark magics

a dork who loves romance novels and dancing like a weirdo

can be a little touchy at times but she's a good person if not a little eccentric

she's been forced to eat monsters for like three months please god someone buy her a cheeseburger

[suituuup]

comme une idylle

Beca gets an odd request from a stranger while in Paris

rating: G

word count: 2801

happy birthday @green-eyed-weirdo​  🥰 I hope you like it!

moodboard and beta by the lovely @snowonebutyou

ao3 link

*

“Dude, is this really necessary?”

Stacie hums. “It’s French fashion.”

Beca rolls her eyes. “I feel like if that were true, we would have seen some people wearing it by now. This just screams ‘I’m an American tourist’ to me.”

Stacie ignores her, adjusting the beret over her head as she stands in front of the mirror. “I think I look sexy with this. Very… chic.”

“Great. If you decide to walk around with that and a baguette under your arm I’m going solo on our tour.”

Stacie plucks another beret from the shelf and screws it over Beca’s head. “Aw, you look like Gavroche.”

“Fuck you, dude,” Beca mutters, taking it off and flattening her hair with her palm as she places the hat back in its initial spot. “I’m hungry.”

“You’re always hungry,” Stacie points out, and Beca can’t really contradict her.

Once Stacie has finally picked one of those ridiculous hats, they head up the cobblestone street and find themselves a brasserie (one of those restaurants where you can get just a drink or have a full meal) for lunch. It’s pretty hot (a bit too hot for Beca’s taste, but she’s hopefully applied enough sunscreen not to resemble a lobster by the end of the day) in Paris that day, but they find shelter under one of those huge parasols, a gentle breeze sweeping in ever so often as they gaze at the food options.

Melodic giggles draw Beca’s focus away from the badly translated menu and towards two tables over to her left. They belong to a redhead, who just happens to be as radiant as her laughter, and Beca finds herself staring a beat too long, catching Stacie’s attention.

“She’s cute.”

Beca’s cheeks heat up as soon as she realizes she’s been caught, and she looks back at her menu so quickly something in her neck twitches. She clears her throat. “What are you talking about?”

“Aww, you adorable baby bisexual. You should go talk to her. Or buy her a drink.”

“Dude, no,” Beca hisses.

Stacie is silent for a few beats, clearly listening in. “She’s American.”

Beca makes a noncommittal sound. “And?”

Stacie leans over, a smirk curving her lips. “Imagine how romantic it would be, you two meeting in Paris and finding each other again in the States. That’s Nicholas Sparks shit right here.”

Beca finds Stacie’s eyes over the menu. “You seem to have forgotten a slight detail: I don’t know how to talk to women.”

Stacie’s eyes roll skyward. “Maybe you should try.”

The waiter thankfully puts a temporary end to the conversation, and once he’s gone with their orders, Beca sees that so is the redhead and her friend.

“Well, there goes your Parisian romance,” Stacie says, sighing softly.

Beca doesn’t really think about the stranger again, not until the end of the day. Stacie insists on heading to the Eiffel Tower to catch the sunset (and probably take a bunch of pictures for her influencer Instagram account), and Beca ignores her aching feet, feeling like she’s already been complaining a lot today.

“Hi there.”

Beca twists her head to the left to find the stranger from the cafe. Her blue eyes nearly make her stumble. “Um, hi?”

“So this might sound really weird, but I’ve always wanted a romantic picture in front of the Eiffel Tower and my boyfriend just dumped me before this trip and well, I was wondering if you’d pose with me?”

That’s a lot of information in five seconds, and Beca blinks twice in slow succession. “Pose, as in…?”

“As in, kiss me?”

She hears Stacie gasp beside her and doesn’t even want to spare her a glance. Her ears feel like they just caught on fire and her voice is nowhere to be found.

It’s only when Stacie jabs her elbow into her ribs that Beca says something. “I, uh, I-- what?”

Well, close to saying something.

The other woman giggles. “You’re really cute. And I asked if you’d like to take a photo with me.”

“Kissing,” Beca echoes, just to make sure.

The redhead grimaces. “Sorry, you’re totes creeped out. I’ll find someone else.”

“She’ll do it,” Stacie announces before Beca can say anything else.

“What, dude,” Beca interjects.

“If you don’t I will,” Stacie mutters, and that shoves Beca into motion.

“Um yeah, sure,” she tells the stranger. A shaky nod. “I’ll do it.”

“Awes!” She hands Stacie her phone. “My friend Aubrey can take the pic.”

Beca notices the blonde standing off to the side and waves awkwardly before her friend slides her hand into hers and tugs her forward. Beca’s heart starts to race a little as they come to a stop at the top of the stairs splaying out over the Trocadero gardens.

“Wait, what’s your name?” The stranger asks, seemingly as an afterthought.

“Um, Beca,” Beca says.

“Nice to meet you, Beca. I’m Chloe.”

Beca nods, tongue poking out to wet her lips. “Cool. Cool, cool, cool. So um,” she wipes her hands over her jeans. “How should we…”

“I’ll just kiss you now,” Chloe says, amusement clear in her tone.

Beca wants to dig herself a hole. But that thought vanishes as soon as Chloe starts leaning in, and her eyes slam shut the moment those soft, full lips brush against hers in a gentle kiss. She hears herself humming as her head tilts forward to chase the remaining distance between them, pushing a firmer kiss against Chloe’s mouth. It’s Chloe’s turn to make a sound this time, and Beca nearly forgets her own name.

She instantly forgets about the photo, and the fact that Chloe is a stranger, too caught up in how good this feels to really care. She does, however, come to her senses when she starts to lack oxygen and pulls away with a sheepish smile, her cheeks flaming.

“Damn…” Chloe murmurs, eyes alight. “I picked well.”

Beca clears her throat and tucks a strand of hair behind her ear, avoiding her eyes. “Glad I could be of service,” she mumbles with an awkward salute.

(yes, yes, a goddamn salute because she’s a fucking dork.)

Chloe giggles and Beca suddenly feels high on the sound. “Too bad my friend and I have to leave tonight. I could have definitely gone for an encore performance.”

Beca isn’t sure how redder her face can get before it matches the shade of her plaid shirt. “That’s uh, too bad.”

“Well thanks for doing it for me,” Chloe says with a wink, then kisses her cheek. “Bye, Beca.”

“Bye,” Beca murmurs, somewhat still in a kiss-induced daze as she watches her go.

“Holy crap, dude,” Stacie says when she catches up with her. “You totally made out with her.”

Beca chuckles, rubbing the back of her neck. “We um, got carried away?”

Stacie punches her arm. “Tell me you got her number.”

Beca shakes her head. “She probably lives like, in LA or something.”

“Oh my god, you’re such an idiot.”

Beca has to agree; she’s the biggest idiot in the world.

The rest of their trip goes smoothly. Beca only has to listen to Stacie having sex once, which is a wonder, considering it’s Stacie, and the two fly back to New York at the end of the week, heads filled with good memories of their trip abroad.

“I still can’t believe you didn’t ask for her number,” Stacie says as they walk out of the arrival gate at JFK.

“Oh my god, would you let it go?” Beca groans, tilting her head back.

“She was so hot.”

“I know,” Beca whines. “But I won’t find her again so let’s just not talk about it anymore.”

“Fine.”

It’s a few days later, as she’s aimlessly scrolling through TikTok as she does every night before bed, that Beca sees it. She almost scrolls past it because ugh, couples, but the yellow summer dress and red hair catch her attention and have her sitting up with a jolt. Her breathes hitches in her throat as she reads the caption:

I hope this cute girl I met in Paris and asked for a pic of us kissing so I could pretend I had a romantic time in France sees this so I can take her out on a date

The video blew up, counting over a million likes and fifteen thousand comments. Her trembling thumb presses on the comment section.

Okay, TikTok, do your thing, we need to find this girl!!

Omg they’re so cute

Imagine they find each other!!

Beca swallows, licking her suddenly dry lips. “Imagine…” she breathes out as she presses on Chloe’s profile picture, hits follow, and then taps Message.

Hey, so… it’s Beca. The girl from Paris?

She locks her phone right after hitting send and buries her face in her palms, emitting a low groan. Her phone pinging less than a minute later makes her heart pound against her ribs. She reaches for it and peeks at the screen with one eye.

omg, hi!! it’s really you?

She figures maybe a few people have sent Chloe a message because hello, who wouldn’t, pretending it was her. So Beca thinks proving it is really her could be a good thing.

If by me you mean the dork who freaking saluted you after our kiss, yep that’s me.

Beca bites down on her bottom lip as she watches the three dots pop up on the screen.

I can’t believe it worked! I’ve been thinking about you a lot since that day.

Butterflies go off in her belly, and before Beca can ponder on how cheesy this is, she’s typing something back.

Me too. That was um, a really good kiss. And you’re pretty.

Oh god, I’m facepalming so hard right now. Sorry I… don’t really know how to talk to girls.

To her surprise, Chloe doesn’t seem put off by it.

You’re very cute. May I ask where you live?

Beca doesn’t want to get her hopes up, because the States are fucking huge, and she doesn’t see herself jumping into a long-distance whatever.

NYC. You?

I go to vet school in Ithaca.

Ithaca. Beca knows it’s in the state, but she googles how close just to make sure. Another message from Chloe comes through.

I’m usually in the city once a month since my best friend lives there. Would you… like to go out on a date when I’m around?

“Dude, chill out,” she mutters to herself when she feels a wave of warmth encompass her entire being.

Sure, yeah. I’d like that.

They exchange numbers and end up texting for most of the evening until Chloe announces she has to head to bed because she has an early lecture the following morning.

Beca is about to turn off the lights too, that idiotic smile still stuck to her lips, when her phone buzzes with a text message from Stacie.

DUDE!!! Watch this NOW

A TikTok link follows, and Beca knows what it is before she even opens it.

Wow. This really blew up, huh.

Stacie’s reply comes through less than five seconds later. That’s all you have to say?! Tell me you’re going to message her. I got dibs on Maid of Honor at your wedding, btw.

Beca rolls her eyes. She ponders telling Stacie but decides to keep Chloe to herself for a while. I’ll think about it.

She’s a fidgeting mess the morning leading up to their date. Chloe told her to meet her by the River Cafe in Dumbo, and Beca has spent entirely too much time deciding on what to wear, which really never happens.

Chloe is already there when she makes it to the park, and Beca buries her hands into her jacket pockets to keep them from wringing together. Chloe doesn’t see her right away, gazing up at the Brooklyn Bridge instead.

“Do you have a thing for iconic iron monuments?” She teases as she approaches, catching Chloe’s attention. She narrows her eyes playfully. “Are you gonna try and kiss me again?” A gasp flies past her lips as she exaggeratedly lies a hand over her chest. “Are you just using me to go viral on TikTok?”

Chloe giggles. “You’re a dork,” she says, grinning. “Hi.”

“Hey,” Beca breathes out, relaxing her shoulders as she smiles back.

“You like ice cream?” Chloe asks, nodding towards the vendor across the grassy area.

“Sure,” Beca says, and they fall into a step towards it. She takes her brain for something to say before things get awkward, but Chloe beats her to it.

“So what’s it like being a TikTok sensation?”

Beca barks out a laugh. “Amazing. One of my life goals for sure,” she jokes, cutting Chloe an amused glance.

Chloe giggles. “I honestly didn’t think it would blow up. But I’m glad it did ‘cause not finding you would have sucked.”

Beca clears her throat, looking down for a second. “Me too. I was really beating myself up for not asking for your number back in Paris.”

Chloe’s lips curve in a small smile, and she looks like she’s about to say something, but it’s their turn to order.

Ice creams in hand, they settle down on the grass to enjoy them. The weather is nice, not too hot with a gentle breeze rolling by once in a while.

“So what are some of your life goals, then?” Chloe asks once they’ve sat down.

“Making a living out of music is the main one,” she says. “I work as assistant producer right now, but the job is pretty crappy.”

“I may or may not have stalked your Instagram,” Chloe admits next. “You have an amazing voice.”

“Oh,” Beca lets out, feeling her cheeks heat up. “Thanks.” She clears her throat. “You’re into music?” Strangely something that hadn’t come up during their texting.

Chloe nods, smiling. “I was in an acapella group in college.”

Beca’s eyebrows shoot up, and she laughs before she can help herself. “Wait, seriously? You’re an acapella nerd?”

Chloe shoves her shoulder, laughing as well. “Shut up.”

“I guess we all make questionable choices in college, huh?”

Chloe huffs, throwing Beca a glare. Beca spots a sprinkle of amusement in her eyes, so she doesn’t think Chloe is truly mad.

“I’m just messing with you,” she says, softening. “I think any kind of music is neat. And singing without instruments is actually pretty impressive.”

“Thanks,” Chloe says lightly. “There’s just… something about music, you know. It soothes the soul and makes you escape the real world for a few minutes.”

A genuine smile curves Beca’s lips. It’s exactly how she would describe what music does to her. “Yeah.”

She eyes Chloe’s profile, still a little bit struck over the fact that this gorgeous girl is on a date with her.

“What?” Chloe asks with curiosity swirling in her eyes when she catches Beca staring.

Beca blinks. “Nothing. I…” she clears her throat. “You’re just really pretty.” She scrunches up her nose. “See? I’m awkward as fuck.”

Chloe chuckles and slides her hand into Beca’s free one. “I think it’s cute.”

Beca grumbles. “I’m not cute, I’m badass.”

Their time together flies by as they learn more about one another, Beca even managing to convince Chloe to show her some acapella videos. The sun sets without either realizing and the park is near empty, save for a couple strolling by in the distance.

“I should head back to Aubrey’s,” Chloe says when it gets a bit chillier. “I said I’d be home for dinner.”

Beca is a bit disappointed, but she nods, smiling. “Okay.”

She pushes to her feet and helps Chloe to hers, her eyes dropping to Chloe’s lips once they’re both standing.

“You know… I didn’t really care about the video,” Chloe murmurs, stepping closer. “I saw you at the restaurant and thought you were really cute. When I spotted you again later, I had to think of something.”

Beca raises an eyebrow. “I noticed you at the restaurant, too.”

“I know. You weren’t being very subtle.”

Beca huffs. “Shut up.”

Chloe simply laughs, her eyes sweeping down to Beca’s lips before she leans in. Beca is a lot less nervous this time around, and she hums as those familiar lips glide over hers flawlessly, her hands bunching up in Chloe’s top as she holds her waist. It’s over way too soon for her liking, but she has to remind herself they’re in public, and how she’ll probably get to do that again very soon.

“See you soon?” Chloe murmurs when they part, brushing her nose against Beca’s.

Beca nods and squeezes her waist. “Yeah.”

With one last kiss, she watches Chloe go in a similar state of a daze as in Paris.

Something tells her this is the start of something amazing.