#but seriously how exactly did he expect it'll turn out

[thebatcreature]

They want to fuck each other so bad it makes them look stupid

Superman Year One #3

[3amfanfiction]

Simon Finds A Toy pt 3

Summary: Ghost takes you out on another one of his murder trips. Why does he think you're going to run away this time? What does he have planned? Part 3 of Simon Finds a Toy.

First | Previous

wc: 2.9k

content warnings/tags: slight gore, stockholm syndrome. banner by @/cafekitsune

Inspired by this ask from nonnie. I went a little different than requested but I hope you still like it!

"What's that?" you questioned, looking at the thick bracelet with trepidation. Simon didn't say anything as he stepped closer, dropping to a knee to pull up your pant leg. When you tried to pull your foot back he gripped your ankle tighter.

"Settle, pet."

Wrapping it around your limb, he latched it closed with a snick before sliding a finger between the band and your skin, checking it's tightness. Pleased with what he saw he stood, towering over you once more.

"There's no getting that off, not without the key," he looked down at you with a steady expression, "it'll tell me exactly where you are so don't think you can go wandering off."

A tracking device? Why did he feel the need to put a tracker on you? Hadn't you proven by now that you have no intention of running off? This didn't make any sense. You'd even gone into town with him before. Multiple times and never thought about running away.

Well—maybe thought about it, but not seriously.

Looking into the frightened face of a young man, you suddenly understood the reason for the ankle monitor.

When Simon had pulled down his mask in the truck after stubbing out his last cigarette, you assumed this would be like the times before. He would direct you to where he wanted you to stand, normally outside the back or side door, and then he'd go on his way.

What you weren't expecting was for him to lead you inside the factory and disappear right as you turned a corner, bumping into a group of self-proclaimed ghost hunters. The screaming between you and the other four was earsplitting.

That had been hours ago, back when everyone was still alive and hadn't spent the night being hunted by Ghost. You almost wanted to make a joke about it. About how they were looking for ghosts and they found one, why weren't they happier? But that would be in poor taste. Especially considering the guy in front of you was the last one alive out of his group.

He hadn't cottoned onto the fact that you weren't nearly as banged up as the rest of them had been. Probably because you were liberally coated in blood. It was smeared all along the side of your face, into your hair and down one side of your body. Courtesy of Ghost slamming you into a puddle of the second victim's blood.

When you'd landed on top of the still warm body you had strangled your scream by the skin of your teeth, scrambling off of her quickly to press against the wall, watching the way her eyes seemed to slowly cloud as the time when on, face slack above the blood that was still spreading. She'd had her throat cut and her stomach opened. Looking at her viscera had your own organs squirming in discomfort but with deep breaths you settled.

You'd stumbled across two more bodies, both murdered horribly in unique ways. Was Ghost having fun with this? Was he playing with them like you'd play with food? Killing them cruelly for his own amusement?

The blood had mostly dried in the time you'd been moving through the hallways, unsure if you were looking for Ghost or for the two remaining group members. Your choice was taken from you when you had to duck under the pipe that was swung towards your head from around the corner. You scrambled out of range only to see the youngest of the group, a man named Ren, peak out from around the corner, still holding onto the bar and looking terrified.

"Oh god, I thought you were him," he gasped in a quavery voice, dropping the far end of the pipe onto the ground with a bang. When you didn't say anything he continued worriedly, "You're okay, right? I didn't get you?"

"No, I'm fin—"

"You're bleeding," he interrupted, finally noticing the blood, his face went gray at the sight.

"It's not mine. It was— there was this girl. With a red shirt—?"

Watching as the realization of who's blood was covering you hit him about broke your heart. In that moment you wanted to leave. You wanted to take his hand and sneak past Ghost, get outside and run. You could do it, you knew you could. You knew how he thought, you'd be able to avoid him. This guy in front of you didn't have to die.

You shifted forward a step, mind spinning, already making plans when you felt your pant leg catch on your ankle monitor. Oh. That's right.

He'd planned for this. For any wavering feelings you might have during this little—what? This little experiment? It felt like an experiment, like he was testing you to see what you'd do in increasingly stressful situations. What an asshole.

That seriously limited your options but you weren't ready to give up quite yet. You wouldn't be able to go with him but maybe you could still get him out. You could distract Ghost while Ren snuck out the side. Maybe that would work.

Decision made you hurried to his side, grabbing his free hand to tug him along with you urgently, "We have to go. If we stay here he's going to find us."

Stumbling down the hall, you both hurried quickly through the dark, keeping a watch for any looming shadows. When you reached a crossroads in the mess of connecting passageways you paused, panting slightly, and turned to look at Ren.

"There's a door down that way," you huffed, pointing to the left, "It's a side door so you should be able to sneak out. I'll go the other way and distract him, give you more time to run."

"What? Are you insane, why wouldn't you leave too?"

As you stood there and argued you were acutely aware of the time slipping past. Ren wouldn't listen when you told him that without a distraction neither of you were getting out of there, that you needed to play decoy so he could run.

"Either you come with me or I'm not going," he finally announced, crossing his arms with a mulish look. At this point you were at a loss. You'd already wasted too much time when you hadn't had any extra to spare.

In your rushing panic you made a mistake.

"I know him, he's not going to hurt me. But you can still get out."

Ren froze. It didn't look like he was breathing, he was so still. As soon as the words left you mouth you wished you could stop them. Now you had to watch as his face filled with disgust and betrayal alike.

"What do you mean you know him? You're with that monster?"

"Well, I—"

He took a step back, face an expression of anger and cut you off, "Why are you two doing this? What did we ever do to you?"

"No, it's not like that—"You raised a hand, watching him flinch backwards before planting his feet once more.

"Is this a trap? Did you lead me here to kill me?" He looked around, panic starting to fill him as he swung the pipe through the air as if Ghost was going to materialize out of the dark at any second.

"Ren, if you'd just—"

You ducked under the swing of the pipe, wincing as it clanged against the wall loudly, announcing your presence to everyone. You held your hands up in entreaty, watching the reason slowly drain from his eyes.

You were considering how you were going to get out of there when Ghost appeared behind him like his namesake, stepping out of the shadows as if he had always been there. Looks like Ren had had the right idea with that pipe. Too bad he had changed his focus to you.

You muffled your sigh of relief as soon as you realized it was you making the sound.

It was the work of moments for Ghost to immobilize him, playing dirty and digging his fingers into the stab wound low on Ren's side to make him double over and heave at the pain. You watched it all happen, not doing anything to help either party. The conclusion obvious before the fight even started.

You looked at where Ren was pinned firmly in place, wrapped up in the larger man's arms, unable to do more than thrash helplessly as Ghost stood there looking bored. When he glared at you through tears you had to avoid his gaze.

"Well?" Ghost asked, tone almost bored considering the circumstances. As if this was just another day for him. "Are you ready to try?"

Your blank look up at his mask did nothing but make him chuckle meanly, cruel beneath the bony face plate as he held the squirming, crying man.

"I don't understand what you're asking," you ventured hesitantly, unsure.

"Come now sweetheart, don't play stupid. I made sure to show you a couple of different cuts you could use on the meat, did any of them pique your interest?"

That was the reason for the strange ways the first three had died? He was showing off for you? Giving you examples?

Your throat clicked as you swallowed dryly, putting the warm feeling of someone thinking about you and giving you a gift off the the side to be examined never if you had your way.

You were still avoiding Rens accusatory gaze so what's one more thing to ignore.

"Well, sweetheart? We don't have all night."

What was he actually asking? Was there a trick somewhere in there for you? Something that if you were clever enough would get you out of this situation? He had never been that kind before but maybe this was the first.

No. Ghost would twist the knife as he pulled it out, just to make sure you felt it.

Ren's gaze was angry and afraid over the seal of Ghost's hand covering his mouth as you stood there in bewilderment, trying to find a way out of this mess. His eyes blamed you for all his misfortune because it was safer than blaming Ghost.

You stopped looking at his eyes all together.

At this point you had to see him as a non-entity. He was going to die. There wasn't a way out of that, Ghost had him in his grip and he wouldn't be leaving this factory. The morning light was going to find his body no matter what.

So what were you really choosing?

If his death was a forgone conclusion then you must be deciding on how he would die. If it would be by Ghost or yourself.

On one hand you wanted nothing to do with this. You didn't want to kill this man who was crying even as he was glaring. His eyes were puffy and there was snot running down to puddle on Ghost's glove. He looked distressingly human.

He was a man who had just lost three friends and was about to die himself. The one who wouldn't leave you there alone, who insisted that you come with. He was shaking in Ghost's hold and you wanted to plug your ears, close your eyes and wait for this to all be over.

You could see yourself in him—the shaking fox in the maw of a dog.

On the other hand, why were you still policing yourself?

No matter your actions, the outcome would be the same. You and Ghost would be walking out of here and leaving four bodies cooling on the concrete.

He was going to die either way and Ghost would certainly be mean about it. With how he had 'shown off' with the others you were positive he would do worse with Ren. Not only because you were watching but also because that would mean you'd declined his offer. Returned his gift.

So wasn't the more humane thing to do to avoid Ren's suffering? Ensuring a clean death so he could die with some sort of dignity intact, whatever dignity there could be in death?

If you had the choice you know you would choose . . . well.

At this point you would choose Ghost if you were to be killed. He had crawled his way under your skin, wrapped around bone and muscle alike and wove himself between each nerve. He was in your lungs, blood and brain and you wouldn't be able to excise him without removing a part of yourself too.

You hated him for it in some ways. As infected as you were, was there any hope in saving yourself? Or were you fighting against a riptide, doing nothing but tiring yourself out, passing time before you were swallowed by the sea?

Were you still censuring yourself, even in your mind? You knew, deep down, that you didn't care about this man and you didn't care how he lived or died when it really came down to it.

Mentally, if you took a step to the left, you wouldn't see him as anything more than a speed bump to be gone over. You didn't know him, didn't care about him. He was no better than a stranger on the street.

And who was going to judge you? Ghost, whose hands already dripped with blood, so saturated that they would never dry? He would be as delightfully pleased with choice, even if his face wouldn't show it. Ren was the only other one here and he wouldn't be for very long.

You thought back to the fox, little heart pittering in it's chest as it died slowly. Dog's teeth flecked with blood as he watched you. Which were you? Which did you want to be?

Looking between Ghost and Ren you realized there was only one choice you could make.

///

The ride back to the cabin was spent with you silent and shaking. You weren't able to get inside fast enough—away from Simon fast enough.

You threw your bag forcefully onto the kitchen table, continuing to rush past it and ignoring Simon shutting the front door behind you.

"What's all this then?" he asked with a frown, watching as your bag wobbled at the edge of the table before finally settling. He set his down much more calmly, as if to show you how to do it.

You hated him. You hated him.

You watched it all play out in your minds eye. How you would get revenge. You would walk up to him, pull the knife from his belt and slide it between his ribs. He wouldn't be expecting it from you, not anymore. You could do it. The world would be a better place if you did.

You could see how the blood would bubble with each breath. Thick and red. How the scent of copper would flood the room, leaving a film in your mouth that you would taste behind your teeth for ages. How the warmth would coat your skin before slowly cooling and becoming tacky.

You realized where your thoughts were focusing, proof again of how he had infected your brain. You were never going to get away from him, were you? Even if you left, if you never saw him again, he would still be there. Still floating in the back of your mind, waiting for a time to step forward.

Why? Why why why why?

"Why did you do this to me?" you finally screamed at him, tears of anger and helplessness running down your cheeks. Why had he made you like this? This thing that you weren't sure was completely human anymore. The rot setting in too far.

"And what did I do to you?" he sounded condescending, as if he was humoring your temper tantrum, riding it out until you were reasonable once more. "Took you away from your boring life, from early hours and late nights at your job? Took you away from being alone every night, laying in bed and playing on your phone? Go ahead, tell me what I did to you."

"You made me like you!"

"And that's so bad is it? Tell me, what part does Your Majesty take offense to?" You wanted to dig your fingers into his eyes as he mocked you.

"You made me kill him!"

"I didn't make you do anything sweetheart. I gave you the opportunity. You're the one who grabbed it with both hands."

He was lying. He was lying. The only reason you killed Ren was stop Ghost from doing it. From playing with him like he always did. You were trying to keep him from hurting. You wanted it to be painless.

"That's not what happened and you know it."

"Go ahead then, tell me. If you didn't do it then who did? Who slid that knife across his throat until he choked on his own blood? There wasn't a goddamn tear in your eye when you opened him from ear to ear." Simon stalked forward to lean close, filling your vision as he put his face right into yours.

"You liked it."

Slap

He didn't move, not as your hand made contact with his face or as it was pulled away. A quick blink was all the response you got before he grinned meanly, "Awfully violent, aren't you, pet?"

"You made me into a monster like you."

He looked at you with cold eyes, an expressionless face his mask. Your heart dropped with his parting words. You'd always known in the back of you mind, hadn't you?

"Can't make something that's not already there."

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Current Stories || Main Repository

[princessmaybank]

Can you do prompt 7

I'm sorry this took so long! I ran with this one and it turned out longer than it should have!

Riding Lessons

Pairings: BestFriend!JJ x Fem!Reader

Warnings: Riding, maybe some second hand embarrassment..I think that's it?

Summary: Reader wants to learn how to ride, who better to teach her than her bestie?!

Author's Note: I hope you like it, I love this idea, I feel like I could have done better though, let me know what you think. Enjoy!

I wanted to learn how to, ya know, "ride" I guess. I've been a pillow princess every time I've ever had sex but I wanted to be able to impress my sexual partner. I know JJ was just fooling around when he said I could always come to him if I ever needed help with something like that but I'm seriously thinking of his offer, well fake offer I guess. Damn it, I don't know! I've been trying to ask all week but it isn't exactly easy to ask your friend for dick riding lessons. I just wanted him to help me learn to move my body, I didn't have to actually hop on him.

Every time I try to ask, something gets in the way. John B is always around, I make a fool out of myself, I can't spit it out, he's too busy to talk, something. This time we are hanging out in the back yard of the chateau. The guys are chilling while us girls are chatting away.

"So that's when I-" Sarah paused, but I barely noticed as I anxiously looked between the ground and the blond boy who's been recently occupying my mind. "What's wrong Y/N?" She asked, clearly noticing my rapid-fire thumbs playing thumb wars with each other. "Oh nothing.." I pushed off, stopping my fingers, even though it wasn't easy. The girls poked until I would tell them what was bothering me. I didn't tell them everything, just the fact that I needed to talk to JJ alone, and it wasn't an easy conversation. Kie said I should just go grab him and pull him to the side right now but I told her that wasn't as easy as it sounded. John B and Pope latch onto the man and keep him tight.

"HEY JJ COME HERE!" I heard Kiara shout as loud as fucking possible. All the guys started standing up. "ONLY JJ!" Sarah added.

The other two sat down as JJ waltzed over to us. My heart was racing, I wasn't ready for this conversation. "What?" He pretended to get snippy. "I wanna ask you something." I speak up. He motions for me to continue. "privately.." I add on. "Oh okay, we'll be back." He smiles towards the girls before grabbing my hand and leading me into the chateau. I expected him to stop in the living room but he sat me on the bed in the guest room before shutting the door. "What's up?" He smiled as he crossed his arms and leaned against the door. My fingers did that thing again. "Now that I think about it, it's not that important anymore!" I rush my words out and try to get past him and to the door. "Ah ah ah. What is it, Y/N/N?" He looked a little concerned.

I wasn't sure how to bring this up. I've thought about this conversation many times and still haven't figured out the best way to say it. "Uhm- well this is a di-difficult conversation Jayj..I want to have it, but I'm not sure how to start it, and I'm worried it'll ruin our friendship and I was kind of ready for this con-" I started my rambling because I got nervous, but JJ cut me off. He walked up to me and crouched in front of me. His right hand reached out and laid on top of my knee. "Breathe Y/N. I'm sure whatever it is, won't ruin our friendship. Cause we're too close, there's nothing we can't say to each other." He said with a smile.

"O-okay.." I said sheepishly. "So talk to me." He said casually and got up to sit on the bed next to me. "Uhm- so you know how you jokingly said I could come to you with like-" I was hesitant and JJ knew that. "Questions involving sex?" He giggled and finished my question for me. I nodded very fast causing him to giggle again. "That wasn't a joke, I meant it." He smiled with a small chuckle. My eyes widened but I shut that down real fast. "Oh, okay, well I do have a question.." I slowly spoke. He nudged me to continue. "This is really awkward and you don't have to say yes, please don't feel pressured to do this, it's really stupid actually, so-" He shushed me. "Calm down. I'm willing to help with anything you need." He smiled. His words caused a blush to rise to my cheeks. I took a deep breath before I closed my eyes and said what I've been meaning to say. "I want to learn how to be on top." That was the easiest way I could say it. "You want me to teach you how to ride dick?" He asked. My eyes were still closed but I felt so embarrassed. My hands covered my face and I heard him chuckle before pulling my hands away. "Look at me." He said. I opened my eyes and looked up at JJ. I tried not to think about the embarrassment coursing through my veins. "Good girl." He said and tucked a piece of hair behind my ear. My heart was beating a mile a minute. I can't believe he just called me that. "Now strip for me." He said and motioned for me to stand. "W-what?" My eyes went wide again. "You want to learn, right? Gotta take your clothes off for me." He said calmly. "I-I thought...I thought you were just going to show me how to move my body.." I twirled my fingers again. "Oh baby...you wanna get some practice first don't you? And who better to try it out on than your best friend?" JJ smirked.

I can't fuck my best friend! This would ruin everything.

"B-but-" I stuttered. "Don't go shy on me now Y/N." He smirked. "Here, I'll go first." He stood proudly in front of me. He removed his hat and boots first. His cut off tank was next before he finally took off his cargo shorts. JJ sat back down next to me on the bed, only in his boxers now. I couldn't stop my eyes from wandering his toned body.

"Your turn Y/N/N." He whispered into my ear. I hesitated again, and he must've noticed. "Would you like some help?" He asked. All I was able to do was lightly nod. JJ slowly grabbed my hands and stood me in front of him. His fingers traveled to the bottom of my shirt and pulled upwards, over my head, gently. His hands grasped my waist and pulled me closer to him. JJ's fingers danced in the waistband of my shorts before shimmying them down my legs. His hands ran up and down my legs starting at my hips.

"Come here.." He whispered before sitting against the headboard. I straddled his lap and his hands met my hips again. "Can I kiss you, Y/N?" He asked. So gently and calmly like we weren't in the position we were in. I nodded and parted my lips, pushing them closer to him. As our lips lingered together, his hands rocked my hips against his, back and forth. I could feel him growing beneath me, causing arousal to pool in my panties.

"You sure you wanna learn from me?" He asked after pulling his lips away from mine. "Wouldn't wanna learn from anyone else.." I responded slowly, staring into his eyes. He smiled before pulling our lips back together for a moment. "You already have step one down, which is good." He smirked. "What's step one?" I asked while breathing heavily. "Turn on your partner." His hand found its way to my hair and tugged forcefully. JJ pressed his lips to my neck and made his way down my torso. "Next you're gonna move your panties to the side for me."

For the next few minutes I listened to every word this man said. When I finally eased myself onto his cock, we both let out small gasps. He encouraged me to move when I felt ready but I asked him to help guide me. JJ placed his hands on my hips and moved me back and forth on him slowly. "You can also go up and down, side to side, or in circles, why don't you try something." A small whimper escaped my mouth. I wasn't sure I was ready. "Let the pleasure guide you..nothing you do is wrong. Go ahead." He said while tucking a piece of hair behind my ear.

When I finally worked up the courage to move, I decided to just move back and forth. JJ's mouth opened slightly from the pleasure. His hands were still on my hips but he wasn't moving me. I picked up my pace and tried to bounce up and down, which felt so good. I felt like I could release right there with the way his dick was punching my insides. I picked up my speed again, JJ and I were moaning messes in each other's arms. I bounced harder when I realized that's what felt good to me. JJ threw his head back as his hands squeezed my hips tighter. "Just like that.." He whined. My jaw was on the floor. He was gorgeous like this. "Fuck baby... don't stop. I'm almost there.." He let out, heaving. I didn't even slow down. I chased our highs until I couldn't anymore. JJ released with my name on his lips as I did the same with him. I collapsed on top of my best friend, his cock twitching inside of me as we started to come down. My body was shaking from the ultimate pleasure I had just experienced. "Shhhh .." He soothed as he caressed my hair. "such a good girl...I can't wait for our next lesson.." He wanted more? My pussy is in for one wild ride.

[redsummermoon]

Lucky Charm

Charlie Dalton x reader CW: use of Y/N, female reader, anderperry <3, only neil and charlie play soccer in this [2.6k words]  heavily inspired by some marauders fic i read.. trying to find it again so i can share it

Y/N stood in the courtyard, chatting with Todd and Meeks as they wrapped up the day’s classes. It had been a long one, with papers due and an exhausting lecture, but now the sun was hanging low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the campus. They were all laughing about a story Meeks was telling when suddenly, Y/N noticed Charlie Dalton strolling over, a wide grin plastered on his face. Her heart did a little flip.

“Anyway, so then the professor says-” Meeks was halfway through his latest story when Y/N felt a familiar presence beside her.

“Hey, Y/N,” Charlie’s voice broke through the air, causing her to look up. He was grinning down at her with that mischievous twinkle in his eyes, hands shoved casually into his pockets. Todd and Meeks glanced at each other knowingly, but they didn’t say anything.

Y/N smiled back, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “Hey, Char.”

He stood close beside her. “What are you doing later?”

“Later?” Y/N echoed, caught a little off guard by how direct he was being. “Uh… nothing, really. Probably just hanging out here with these guys.”

Charlie’s grin widened at her answer, and he leaned forward slightly. “Perfect,” he said, his voice low but full of excitement. “You wanna come to my soccer game? It’s happening later. Like, in a few hours.”

Y/N blinked, her mind scrambling for an answer. She hadn’t planned on going anywhere tonight, and soccer wasn’t exactly on her mind. “Oh, um… I don’t know,” she hesitated, glancing at Todd and Meeks for some kind of backup. They both smirked, clearly entertained by the interaction.

Charlie wasn’t deterred by her reluctance. If anything, it made him even more determined. “Come on, it’ll be fun. You can cheer me on,” he urged, then added with a wink, “You could be my good luck charm.”

Y/N raised an eyebrow, unsure of what that meant. “Good luck charm?”

Charlie’s grin turned almost boyish, and he reached into his bag, pulling out a piece of folded clothing. “Yeah, here,” he said, shaking out his away jersey. “Wear this.”

Y/N’s eyes widened, her heart skipping a beat as she stared at the jersey in his hands. “You… you want me to wear your jersey?”

Charlie nodded, his grin softening into something a little more sincere. “Yeah. It'll help me win,” he teased, but his voice had a hint of seriousness in it too. “You know, for luck.”

Y/N hesitated, looking between Charlie and the jersey. It wasn’t something she’d expected. Charlie Dalton asking her to wear his jersey to his game. The gesture felt so personal, almost intimate in a way that made her cheeks flush. She reached out, fingers brushing the fabric before she glanced back up at him.

Charlie looked down at her. “So, does that mean you’ll do it?” he asked, his voice now a little softer, like he was really hoping she’d say yes.

She nodded, still feeling her face heat up as she held the jersey tightly in her hands. “Yeah, I’ll be your good luck charm,” she said, glancing up at him through her lashes. “But, um… how exactly does this work? Do I just sit there wearing this, or…?”

Before she could finish her thought, Charlie stepped closer, and without thinking, Y/N leaned forward to rest her forehead against his chest, trying to hide her burning cheeks. She could feel his heartbeat beneath her skin, fast and steady, and it made her breath hitch in her throat.

“You just have to wear it,” Charlie said softly, his voice gentle and full of affection. “That’s all. You wear it, and I’ll do the rest.” He paused, his hand reaching up to run his fingers through her hair. “Thanks, Y/N,” he murmured, his breath warm against her hair. “This means a lot.”

Y/N’s heart thudded in her chest as she pressed her forehead to his chest for a moment longer, feeling the warmth radiating off him. She couldn’t help but blush even more when Charlie placed a light kiss on the back of her head.

His hand gently tousled her hair, making her giggle softly despite herself. “You’ll bring me luck, I can feel it,” he said with a wink, stepping back and giving her a little wave. “I gotta go get ready, but I’ll see you at the game, yeah?”

Y/N nodded, still clutching the jersey, her heart racing. “Yeah, I’ll be there.”

With one last grin, Charlie turned and jogged off toward the locker rooms, leaving Y/N standing there, feeling a little dazed.

The second Charlie was out of earshot, Todd and Meeks both erupted into quiet laughter. “Good luck charm, huh?” Meeks teased, nudging Y/N with his elbow.

Todd smirked, looking amused. “I think someone’s got a little crush.”

Y/N blushed even deeper, hugging the jersey to her chest. “It’s just… he asked me to come to his game. It’s not a big deal.”

“Oh, right, not a big deal at all,” Meeks said, his tone dripping with sarcasm. “He just gave you his jersey and called you his good luck charm. Totally normal, not personal at all.”

Y/N groaned, rolling her eyes even though her smile gave her away. “Okay, fine, it’s kind of a big deal.”

Todd raised his eyebrows, grinning. “Kind of? It’s Charlie Dalton. He never asks girls to his games. This is definitely a big deal.”

Y/N laughed, shaking her head as she looked down at the jersey in her lap. Her fingers traced the numbers on the back, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness building up inside her. “I guess I better wear it, then.”

“Oh, you better,” Meeks said, chuckling. “We wouldn’t want you to break his heart.”

As they laughed, Y/N couldn’t stop thinking about how warm and genuine Charlie’s smile had been, and how fast his heart had been beating when she leaned against him. Maybe she was reading too much into it, but the way he looked at her… it made her feel like something more was happening, something exciting.

The late afternoon sun had started to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the soccer field as Y/N, Meeks, and Todd stood at the barricade near the edge of the stands. Y/N fidgeted nervously, tugging on the hem of Charlie’s jersey that she was wearing. The material was soft against her skin and smelling faintly of him, like a mix of laundry detergent and cologne. She felt the heat rise to her cheeks every time she caught a whiff of it.

Todd noticed her shifting and nudged her gently. "You good?" he asked, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

Y/N nodded, though her stomach was doing flips. "Yeah, I’m good," she lied, trying to focus on them rather than the fact that she was wearing Charlie Dalton’s soccer jersey like she was his personal good luck charm.

Meeks grinned beside her, clearly enjoying the spectacle. “You sure? You look a little flustered there.”

She shot him a mock glare, but her nerves were too wound up to offer a proper comeback. Before she could respond, the boys’ soccer team started to emerge from the locker room, jogging onto the field to warm up. The stands weren’t packed, but there was enough of a crowd to make the atmosphere feel alive, especially as the team began to stretch and pass the ball around.

Then, out of nowhere, Neil appeared. He sprinted over with a big grin on his face, leaping up onto the barricade with effortless energy. Without hesitation, he pressed a quick kiss to Todd’s lips, completely unfazed by the crowd or the public display.

“Hey, you,” Todd said, his cheeks turning pink but a wide smile lighting up his face.

“Hey, yourself,” Neil replied, his voice soft before he turned to give Meeks a playful salute. “Meeks,” he greeted with a nod, then his gaze shifted to Y/N, who stood a little awkwardly to the side, fiddling with the hem of the jersey.

Neil’s eyes instantly lit up with mischief, his grin widening. “Ohhh, what’s this?” he teased, gesturing to the jersey. “You wearing Dalton’s jersey? Didn’t know you two were that close.”

Y/N’s face turned a brilliant shade of red, and she opened her mouth to explain, but Todd jumped in before she could get a word out.

“She’s his good luck charm,” Todd declared with a smirk, clearly enjoying how flustered she was becoming.

Neil’s eyebrows shot up, and he laughed, leaning closer to Y/N. “Good luck charm, huh? Well, I’d say Charlie’s pretty damn lucky then,” he teased, giving her a playful wink.

Y/N could only manage a nervous laugh, hugging the jersey closer to her body. “It’s… just for the game,” she mumbled, still not quite believing how surreal this situation was.

Neil chuckled again and kissed Todd once more, this time a little longer, before hopping down from the barricade. “Well, I better get out there before coach kills me. Wish me luck,” he said, giving Todd a quick wave.

“Good luck!” Todd called after him, watching Neil jog across the field toward the rest of the team.

As Neil reached Charlie, who was off to the side stretching, Neil immediately pointed in Y/N’s direction. Y/N watched as Charlie followed his friend’s gesture, and when his eyes landed on her, his entire face split into the biggest grin she’d ever seen.

Her heart practically skipped a beat at the sight. Charlie looked… well, radiant. His eyes sparkled with something that was a mixture of excitement and affection, and the way his smile lit up his face made her stomach flip in the most wonderful way.

Meeks nudged her again. “Looks like someone’s happy to see you.”

Y/N felt her face heat up again, and she tried to hide her smile, but it was impossible. She gave a shy wave in Charlie’s direction, feeling both thrilled and embarrassed all at once.

Charlie, still grinning like an idiot, raised a hand to wave back before turning his attention back to his team. But even from a distance, Y/N could see how much lighter his movements were, how energized he seemed.

“He’s definitely playing for you today,” Todd murmured, clearly amused by the whole situation.

The whistle blew, signaling the start of the game, and from the moment the ball was in play, it was clear that this match was going to be a close one. Y/N watched from the stands with her heart pounding in her chest. Welton was leading, but only just, and every time the opposing team pushed forward, the tension in the crowd built to a near unbearable level.

Charlie was on fire. He was diving, blocking, and making saves that had the entire crowd on their feet. Y/N couldn’t take her eyes off him. He moved with such focus and determination, his every movement calculated and sharp. There were moments where she thought the ball was surely going in, but somehow, Charlie always managed to get his hands or feet in the way.

The clock was ticking down, with only minutes left in the game. The opposing team made one final push, their forward dribbling the ball toward the goal at lightning speed. Y/N could feel her heart in her throat as the player took the shot.

Charlie dove, arms outstretched.

For a second, everything seemed to happen in slow motion. The ball flew toward the goal, but Charlie was faster. His hands met the ball just in time, deflecting it away from the net with an incredible save.

The crowd erupted into cheers, and Y/N found herself screaming with excitement alongside them. The whistle blew again, this time signaling the end of the game. Welton had won.

The entire soccer team rushed toward Charlie, shouting and cheering. Gatorade was dumped over his head, soaking both him and the coach in sticky red liquid. Charlie laughed, shaking his head as his teammates piled on top of him in celebration.

Beside her, Todd and Meeks grinned at the sight of Neil in the thick of it, celebrating with Charlie and the others. Todd leaned over, nudging Y/N gently. “We’re gonna go talk to Neil,” he said, giving her a knowing smile. “You coming?”

Y/N nodded, barely able to peel her eyes away from the team, who was still caught up in the chaos of the celebration. “No. I think I’ll wait for Charlie here,” she replied, waving them off as Todd and Meeks made their way down toward the team.

The field began to clear as the excitement died down, the players slowly dispersing. Y/N stood by the barricade, waiting. 

And then she saw him. Charlie made his way toward her, still soaked in Gatorade, his jersey clinging to him as he jogged over. His face was flushed with excitement, his grin wide and infectious.

Without hesitating, he jumped up onto the barricade, landing right in front of her with that same dazzling smile. Y/N’s heart fluttered, and before she could say anything, Charlie wrapped her in a tight hug.

“You were incredible,” Y/N said, her voice breathless with excitement. She pulled back just enough to look at him, her hands resting on his shoulders. “Seriously, I’ve never seen you play like that.”

Charlie grinned, his arms still around her. “Well, I told you. You’re my good luck charm,” he said, his voice low and playful. He winked at her, clearly enjoying how flustered she was.

Y/N rolled her eyes, laughing as she looked up at him. “You and your good luck charm nonsense…” she teased, but before she could finish her sentence, Charlie leaned down and kissed her.

It was soft at first, sweet and tentative, but there was so much energy behind it. Y/N melted into the kiss, her heart racing all over again for an entirely different reason. When they broke apart, Charlie was grinning even wider, if that was even possible.

Y/N laughed, realizing that his lips tasted like the red Gatorade that had been dumped on him. “You taste like Gatorade,” she said with a grin, her nose scrunching up playfully.

Charlie raised his eyebrows, clearly amused. “Oh yeah? Do you like that?”

Y/N smirked, tilting her head slightly as she looked at him. “Why don’t I have another taste to be sure?” she said, her voice teasing before she pulled him back in for another kiss.

Charlie pumped his fist into the air dramatically, the action so Charlie that it made Y/N laugh against his lips. From across the field, they heard a few of the other soccer boys whoop and cheer for them, clearly amused by the sight of Charlie and Y/N kissing by the barricade.

Y/N broke the kiss, her face flushed, and buried her head into Charlie’s shoulder, embarrassed by the attention but also overwhelmed by how happy she felt.

Charlie’s arms tightened around her, and he pressed a kiss to the top of her head. “Thank you,” he murmured, his voice soft and sincere. “For being my good luck charm.”

Y/N smiled against his chest, her fingers gently gripping the fabric of his jersey. “Anytime,” she whispered, feeling like she might burst from the happiness inside her.

[armpirate]

Anti-romantic || JJk | Ch. 13

Pairings: Boxer!Jungkook x fem!reader || Enemies to lovers, neighbors

Genre: smut, angst, fluff, curse, illegal boxing, violence

Warnings: fuckboy!Jungkook x reader, smut, dirty talk, curse, mention of tarot and fate

Summary: Jungkook had always been carefree when it came to love. He always believed he was worth sharing himself with everyone, and thought it was selfish of him to ever think of keeping himself exclusive to just one person.

And maybe that was exactly what got him into the big problem he was in.

A curse that kept him away from love didn't seem an issue for him. The fact that his ex-girlfriend thought he'd be affected by the idea of the girls he slept with running away from him after sex was ridiculous. She actually did him a favor, and took a burden away from him.

At least that was what he thought at first.

He had never found himself thinking of the possibility of repeating with neither of his hook ups, because they disappeared before he was able to even think about it. But when he makes the mistake of sleeping with the sexy neighbor that lives in front of him, he finds himself hoping to get the chance for a second round every time their paths cross.

Y/n hated him the second he set foot inside the building by the way he started making her life a miserable mess for no reason. Sleeping with him was a big mistake she wasn't thinking of repeating. At least not until he came up with the excuse that she rejected him for a curse. Not only she thought he was annoying, but she was also convinced he was crazy. 

There was no way she could take him seriously.

Aprox. time of reading: 28 minutes

Chapter warnings: Smut, dirty talk, protected sex, oral sex (female receiving), female masturbation, pubic hair, teasing

Previous || Next

MASTERLIST

His hand was almost rubbing her shoulder, embracing her back as she moved closer to him to give him no space to think about anything else that wasn't her. Jungkook had been working almost all night to get her attention.

He knew women like her were difficult to find, and even more difficult to keep engaged. He played nice and funny, his conversation was eloquent until he saw in her eyes how hooked he was. And then, he made the tactic move of telling her he didn't want to bother and that he'd go back to his table, only for her to insist him to stay a little longer.

Her fingers made the quick move of sliding in his locks, moving through his scalp as she approached her lips to his.

Until his ringtone interrupted.

—It'll be quick —he assured her.

His right hand left her thigh over her trousers to reach the back pocket of his pants and take the phone out.

Peter's name on his screen made him sigh, wondering why he was calling so late into the night, and why he was even thinking of bothering him out of training hours.

—What?

—There's a girl that looks exactly like your girlfriend here.

—My girlfriend? —he quickly smiled at the girl, who frowned at that word.

—Yeah, that petty girl that entered the gym like she owned it a few weeks ago.

Jungkook sat straight, moving away from the girl he was ready to hook up with, when the description sounded a little too familiar.

A petty girl? That acted like she owned places? And that was in his gym? That could only be Y/n.

—Are you sure it's her?

—It looks like her for sure —he sighed—. She's wearing boxing gloves, and one of the trainers is with her. But I'm not sure if she's here to fight.

Jungkook was convinced all those hits at his head were paying a tough consequence faster than it should.

—Well, so what? —he chuckled— She isn't my problem. Focus on your things, and ignore her.

After hanging up, Jungkook turned to the girl that was giving him a rough look after that call, expecting an explanation.

—It's a misunderstanding —he started—. It's just someone who's obsessed with me, and goes around telling people we're dating.

—I mean, I'm not surprised —her fingers moved up to his chest—. I'm obsessed, and I've only been around you for a few hours.

His hand went back to that spot in her thigh, leaning over her to go for that kiss he was interrupted from getting, only to be interrupted again. His thought froze him on the spot, stopping just a few millimeters from her face, and barely feeling anything when she linked their lips together.

What was Y/n doing in a place like that? And why the hell was she even thinking of fighting? So that was why she had those boxing gloves in her house the other day?

Jungkook shook his head, trying to focus on the kiss that he barely corresponded to. Y/n wasn't his problem.

But they'd eat her alive in that place? She could seem to be rough, but she wouldn't last a round.

The girl lost her balance when Jungkook moved back quickly, letting his thoughts win and his worry take over him. He wasn't doing it because of her, that was right, he was just worried that his conscience would make him feel guilty because he had the chance to avoid it. That was the reason.

—You're amazing, so hot and sexy —the girl smiled, sinking her shoulders with fake shyness—. But I need to go.

He got up and started making his way to the door, stopping when he realized he had no way of getting to the place the fight was taking place. The girl sat straight, faking pride -even if her heart skipped a bit- when she saw him walking back to her.

—Perhaps... Did you come here by car? I really need someone to drive me somewhere.

She got up, and for a quick second he genuinely thought she'd agree on taking him where he needed to be. His face quickly moved to the side after she slapped his face, and walked away from his mumbling several insults.

—"No" would've worked —he complained, rubbing his cheek with the palm of his hand.

Well, he had to get there by uber or taxi. Not only did she cost him a fun night, Y/n also cost him whatever price the drivers settled for the night.

She was so determined when she first agreed to the fight, thinking that she'd find a way out before she actually had to go up in the ring, that she didn't even think of the possible problems that could come up and that could avoid her from dodging being beaten up by another woman that was twice of her body in muscles.

Her blood pressure went down to the tip of her toes when she saw that fighter, keeping her hair away from her face with two boxer braids.

She hadn't even been training for a week.

Of course she knew how to hit a punch on someone, or how to dodge a hit before it actually reached her face. Her brother taught her before he died. But that situation was completely different. She had never had to think so fast and react at the same time the thoughts were kicking in her system.

She agreed to the fight, thinking she'd overhear some information that could be useful to her, thinking that someone important would show up and show the face so she could try to expose him as part of that web of illegal fights. But there was nothing she could use.

Nothing.

—How am I supposed to win? She looks like she'd eat me with one bite and burp all of my bones out —she whispered, hating herself for being unable to hide the way her voice shook.

—Oh, don't worry about that.

A ray of hope fell on her with those words coming from her trainer, thinking that maybe she was better at fighting than she thought -he agreed on her showing up at the fight due to something-, or maybe the other fighter was all appearance and she was indeed as bad in boxing as her.

—You're not supposed to win.

Y/n opened her eyes wide, turning to her trainer, who was looking at her with a calm smile.

—I'll earn more if my fighters lose than if they win —he whispered—. Just take the hits. Pam, pam —he simulated the punches—, and stay up until the fourth or fifth round.

—I should just allow her to punch me until the fifth round? —she hysterically asked.

—You got it right —he patted her shoulder—. Don't think about it too much, because you're next.

It all happened so fast, that she didn't know where the other fight came to an end until she saw that other young boy almost being dragged out of the improvised ring. She gulped thick, seeing what her future would look like in the next fifteen minutes.

—Wait —she urgently spoke, trying to stand her foot on the ground as hard as she could—, couldn't you give me two minutes more to think about it?

—Two minutes more? Of course —but his fake smile quickly dropped—. What do you think this is? Let's go.

She was already ready to face her fate, dealing with the consequences of her own decisions that took her there. Until another bigger hand got a grip on her forearm, next to her trainer's hand, and a wide back almost covered her whole body, barely allowing her to see further than it.

—Why am I not surprised? —the middle-aged man scoffed, looking away before his eyes fell on Jungkook— Get out of my way.

—She's not fighting, Ramon —Jungkook slowly spoke.

Y/n looked lower on the hand holding her, frowning when she thought of how familiar those tattoos looked. And that voice... Usually, she was so annoyed just seeing Jungkook, that she was always tempted to do the opposite of what he'd like her to do, but that day he showed up like a guardian angel, making her feel like she had never been happier to see him before in her life.

—At least I'm here supporting my fighters ��the man answered with a cocky tone.

—You know nobody from my business is fighting today —he hissed.

And it wasn't like he ever sent any of his fighters to fight, unless he had no other choice. And he always made sure they were prepared to confront any fight they were signed on.

—Let her go unless you want me to break each bone of your body.

—If I let her go, you know they'll do more than just break each bone of your body, Jungkook.

—It's alright —Y/n interrupted, finally making him turn to her—. I'm here because of that, and it isn't like I need your help.

Y/n moved her arm away, getting rid of both of their grips to be able to walk past her neighbor. She turned again, looking at him one last time.

—Calm your dick down while I get on the ring. Just let what happened the last time happen again.

Her voice and body language were saying one thing, but her eyes were asking him to do another.

His brain was working at full speed, looking around to anything that could help him come up with something to help her. Those fights are never stopped. No trainers oppose, no fighters step back, no one from outside can come in between. The only few times it was ever stopped was because cops suddenly popped up.

And he saw the light.

Moving around the crowd, he looked for Peter, until he found him supporting his weight on one of the columns as he saw the ring from afar.

—Hey, Kook —the young boy greeted.

—I need you to do me a favor.

—Sure, what is it?

In a hurry, Jungkook leaned over the boy, able to whisper what he was planning to do in his ear, so nobody around would know.

—Get out of here, and call the police.

—What? Why?

—Just do what I'm telling you —seeing that Peter wasn't moving still, he spoke again—. Now.

Once the young man disappeared among the crowd, Jungkook turned his back to the ring again, hoping his idea would work out.

At the sound of the bells, Y/n could only feel her stomach sinking deeper and her legs feeling as weak as jelly, before she started running around the ring to escape her opponent. She wasn't fast herself, and right in that moment she was regretting not being in shape, just like one of her coworkers had recommended her.

—Why don't we pretend you hit me? It's the same result —Y/n tried to convince her.

But another punch flew her way, quickly making her run back to get as far as possible from the tall woman.

—I'll give you fifty bucks —she begged—. Sixty? I can go up to seventy, but that's my limit.

Her negotiation stopped when the first punch laid on her face, making her lose balance and fall to her knees. She thought that the smartest would be not to get up, and stay there until the time passed and the fight was lost on her side, but she received another hit that made her fall to her side.

She forgot where she actually was when she thought that, being on the floor, would stop the other from touching her.

Jungkook saw everything from the crowd, wishing for Peter to have understood his order and done them properly - even feeling tempted to send him a message to confirm he actually did what he was asked.

Until he heard those familiar alarms and all those loud shouts that tried to keep everyone in their places.

It was his sign to run to the ring and run to Y/n.

—Please, tell me I'm dead —she begged when Jungkook made her roll on her body.

Jungkook knew that in her state she wouldn't be able to move properly, and they probably would get caught. Either by the people behind those fights, or by the cops that were running after them. He opted for lifting her body, carrying her up his shoulder to run away from there.

Y/n felt dizzy, finally waking up from her momentary commotion when the chill breeze hitted her exposed arms. She lifted her head from his back, seeing two men running after them, suddenly making her enter a new panic that had her hitting Jungkook's lower back as if she were hitting the loin of a horse.

—Fast, they're catching us —she panicked—. The car isn't that far.

—Why the fuck did you park your car so far? —he complained.

—Exactly because of this —she replied back, trying to lift her body to see him—. Go faster.

After a few seconds that were eternal for the two of them, she finally cheered when she managed to see Allan's car not that far from them. To earn time, he left her on the ground and looked for the bag she had hidden in the bushes to be able to open the car. Jungkook almost threw her on the backseat to not waste time surrounding the car when he heard a thick male voice calling them out, and got on the driver's seat.

The rest of the way back home was in silence, only filled with the roaring of the engine and their shaky breaths as they tried to understand everything that had happened.

—Well, my plan worked out —he sighed, finally able to calm down.

—Your plan? I was the one who gave you the idea.

—You? When? Do you seriously have to take my merit away? —Jungkook complained, taking a quick look at her through the rear view.

—I was the one who gave you the idea. Dick, slang for cops? Just let what happened the last time happen again?

—Who the fuck would've ever thought you were referring to that?

—You, clearly! —Y/n answered back.

—So you think you saved your own ass?

—No, of course not —Jungkook almost smiled when he heard her saying that—. It was teamwork.

—I did all the work —he turned to her—. I thought about it all, I carried you to the car...

—It was sixty, forty.

—You did nothing.

—Alright... Seventy five, twenty five, then.

Jungkook simply sighed at how stubborn she was, deciding not to speak up again until they reached their building. He had been carrying her bag all the way to their places, hanging it up on her neck and making her think they'd separate their ways after the elevator reached their floor.

But his hand on her wrist again stopped her from doing so, guiding her to his apartment.

—I can clean it up —she assured him—. I've actually dealt with this more times than you think.

—Have you seen your face? Just let me do it.

He helped her take the boxing gloves off, throwing them over his couch so she'd have the mobility of her fingers back. While he left, Y/n just shyly moved around the coffee table to take a seat in his leather couch, looking around as if she hadn't been there before.

When Jungkook turned, he sat at the edge of the coffee table, in front of her. Her throat completely shut in surprise when his fingers hooked around the back of her knees, separating her legs and dragging her body to the edge of the couch to pull her closer to him.

She was used to having him so close unprompted. It had been like that since they saw each other for the first time, and that only got worse after the first time they slept together. But, somehow, that night something felt different.

—Thank you for tonight... shhh —she tried to hold back her whine by clenching her teeth together, as he cleaned up the wound on her lower lip.

—I guess this makes up for the spice incident —he sighed.

—How did you know I was there?

—I have ears and eyes everywhere —Jungkook tried to play mysterious, giving a vague answer—. One of the guys I train was there to get familiar with all of that —he finally answered—. But the real question is: what were you doing there?

—I needed to come up with another way to write the article —she justified herself.

—Sure, because letting someone break your face would work so well for it.

—The editor said I needed to make it more personal, and what's more personal than that?

—Are you seriously going to justify it? —Jungkook shook his head in disbelief— Is this only for that article?

Y/n squinted her eyes at that question, trying to understand where he was trying to get with it. Was he actually wondering if she had any other reason to go through all of that?

—Yeah, what else would I be doing all of this for? —she nodded, coming up with the fastest excuse— With this, I was able to see how they choose the fighters, how they get the locations, and how it works —she shrugged—. If you had helped me, I wouldn't have had to do this.

—There you go again blaming me —his eyes rolled while his head was thrown back.

—I'm not blaming you, I'm saying that talking with you was the easy way.

—I was serious, Y/n. Drop it. You don't want to deal with those people —he tried to warn her.

—I know exactly what those people are capable of, I know what I'm getting myself into, and it's exactly why I think I need to go on with the article. Ah! —she complained when he pressed his fingers harder on her wound, moving the cotton coated in alcohol— You're so gentle —she ironically said.

—Oh, sorry. I thought that since you were so tough and brave, you'd be able to handle it.

Her tongue clicked in discomfort, looking him up as he sighed, leaving all the things he had used back on his left.

—I can handle that, but it hurts —she whined, touching the corner of her mouth carefully.

She quickly moved back as she saw him leaning over her way too close, having her looking back confused.

—Didn't you say it hurt? Stay still.

She couldn't explain the way her whole body reacted when the cold air coming out of his mouth in a blow reached her lips. It was as if she was waking up, she could even hear her own hormones boiling by having him so close to her. Jungkook was aware of her gaze, looking at him with such intensity that it was making him nervous.

He was aware of the way she was slowly approaching him, cutting the distance between their lips. And he just let her act. He didn't move back, he didn't move with her, he just waited for her to come his way.

—Shouldn't I be the one rejecting you now? —he whispered, stopping her advance.

—Why do you always have to open your big mouth? —she huffed.

His comment almost made her move back and make her way out of the trap his body and the couch formed, but his hand moved faster, hooking her chin with two of his fingers to cut the small distance that there was left between them.

That first kiss led to another one, that had her wrapping her fingers around his neck and moving closer to him, hanging completely at the edge of the couch. Jungkook groaned when he tasted the metallic taste of her blood mixed with the bitter savor of the alcohol she had used to cure her.

As the tip of her tongue sneakily moved in between his lips, Jungkook supported the weight on his body on each side of her, sinking his knees on the edge of the couch to completely cover his body with his.

He could only hope that wasn't one of his daydream fantasies that had him in more than just one trouble.

A pop sound echoed the four walls of his living room when he broke the kiss to move down her neck, hearing how she took a deep breath when he sucked on that spot between her jaw and throat as he slowly laid her body down against the backrest. His fingers moved the elastic of her black top up, exposing her perking breasts and moving his mouth down as soon as he got the first sight of them.

Y/n wasn't thinking, she slowly allowed him to intoxicate her system so she could allow herself to lose herself to him at least for once. Her back arched when his warm mouth wrapped around one of her nipples, feeling the other tightening painfully as it begged for the same attention from him every time his tongue swirled around the button.

—Have I ever told you how much I love your tits? —his husky voice praised her, sucking on the swollen button one last time before he started moving lower in her torso.

Once his lips reached the elastic of her shorts, she realized the situation she was in, and the little problem she had down there.

—Stop.

Jungkook looked at her confused, making one last move to be sitting on his knees in front of her.

She had been so busy with the article, so focused on anything else but herself, that she didn't worry to keep herself trimmed down there. With any other hook up, she probably would've tried to come up with an excuse or a valid reason to stop it all and try to keep some of the information to herself, but it wasn't like she cared about her image with Jungkook. That rivalry situation they had going on allowed her to not to care about what he could think of her.

—I didn't shave —she stuttered.

Jungkook simply scoffed, feeling even more relaxed after hearing that. If that was the only problem that night, then so be it.

—And do you think I care?

There was no way he'd give up on that chance for something so vain as hair.

His fingers hooked on the elastic of her shorts and her panties, pulling them down her legs and throwing them next to the boxing gloves on the couch. As he kissed her belly, he could smell how aroused she was, sending a message straight to his shaft. He moved his digits through the wet curls, opening her slit with two of his fingers. His cock tightened against his pants at the vision of her leaking pussy, giving it no second thoughts as his tongue moved from her entrance to her clit to get a first taste of her.

A gasp escaped her mouth like she had been holding it for a lifetime, being the first time she opened her mouth, not knowing she wouldn't be able to close it for the rest of the night.

The tip of his tongue traced eight-shaped lines on her clit, getting the first reaction from her. Her fingers sank in his scalp before he changed those movements into small circles and kitten licks that had her hips grinding against his mouth for more.

He was teasing her, testing the waters with her, examining each one of her reactions to know what she liked and what she loved.

—Suck it —she demanded with a heavy voice, turning into a short moan when his mouth captured her swollen button.

Trying to get rid of anything that could limit her movements, Y/n took off the top, sinking deeper on the couch to spread her legs a bit more and focus all of her attention on how his head moved with soft bops in the middle of her thighs.

One of his fingers slid into her, stretching her out for the second finger that would come right after, pounding in and out of her with a lower intensity, decreasing the way he pulled from her clit for a moment before it went back to the way he was doing it. Y/n quickly turned into that moaning mess that made him regret ever wearing those tight black jeans for his night out.

—You look so good keeping your tongue busy —her voice cracked in the middle of the sentence, when his teeth softly trapped her clit.

—And you look so hot when you just moan.

He moved his flat tongue against her bundle of nerves before trapping it again, sucking it in between his lips to flick his tongue from side to side while his fingers kept working inside of her, curling them up to rub against a spot that had her pulling his hair so tight that he was sure he'd rip some locks apart.

Y/n was needy, but not the type to beg. She encouraged him to go on when she was close. He knew it by the way her pussy clenched around his fingers, but he loved the way she slowly lost herself to the pleasure he was giving her. It was like being rewarded with a power she always denied him.

He moved his face away when she cummed for the first time, admiring how perfect her neck looked completely stretched out as her head fell back. But his fingers kept moving, stroking her through her high and demanding another one from her.

His hand was supporting his weight on the backrest, next to her head, where she found another support as her fingers digged on his tattoos. With her digits still hooked on his wrist, his hand to her jaw, forcing her to look at him as her second orgasm approached her.

He never thought seeing that woman so close to the edge would be so satisfying, but she for sure topped his expectations with that naughty look he was giving him back instead of looking away.

She was lost in him, but she still was completely conscious of what was happening and who she was with. As much as she loved what he was doing to her, she loved even more letting him know she was in command just as much as he was. Until her high hit her again fast, enabling all of her senses the few seconds it lasted.

Even if she hadn't recovered yet, and with her legs still trembling, she managed to sit on the couch, reaching for his belt to undo it and just have him the same way he had her just a moment ago.

But Jungkook stopped.

—If you suck me off right now, I'll cum in your mouth and I won't even get to fuck you first —he justified himself.

As he bent over, her hand pulled him closer by his nape, linking their lips together before she started taking that black shirt off.

—Who did you dress so well for? —she teased him, raising her eyebrow when she broke the kiss.

—It's what I wear on Saturday afternoons at home.

Jungkook picked her up easily, as if she weighed nothing, locking his hips with her legs before he kissed her again. His room was the main objective, but he ended up pinning her up against the wall roughly, making her gasp against his lips.

—I need you so bad, 3A —he heavily whispered.

—Then take me to that damned room and fuck me.

Despite cumming two times already, she sounded just as desperate for it to happen as he was, and that was driving him insane.

The mattress squeaked under her when he threw her body onto it, almost ripping his clothes off to get rid of anything that kept him from feeling her directly against his skin. And Y/n did the same, taking off the boxing boots and the socks to drag her body in the middle of those black sheets.

Jungkook's growl filled the room when he finally pounded into her after putting the condom on, feeling how perfectly she wrapped around him, taking him in like he was never meant to spend so much time without filling her.

His movements started slow, trying to get her to get used to him and his size, holding onto her thighs to rub his thumbs on her sensitive skin, before she spoke.

—Go faster —she asked, lifting her hips for him.

He went in faster, and deeper, hitting her hips faster with each thrust, just like she asked him to. That was exactly how she wanted to see her the other night. Her hair spread all over his pillow, her face breaking all of the emotions he was making her feel, her breasts bouncing in sync with the rhythm his hips marked and his cock disappearing in her pussy and coming out completely coated in her juices. His thumb moved further, reaching her clit to rub it in circles and give her the last push she needed to start moaning out loud.

—Fuck, you're so tight, baby —he groaned, just when her walls gulped him in tight.

Jungkook was so annoying, but at the same time was so addictive, that Y/n was sure she'd be thinking about that night for weeks. He moved so deliciously well that it seemed like he wasn't even trying.

—You feel so good —she moaned, feeling her eyebrows sinking on the bridge of her nose.

And when he changed the speed and the angle of his thrusts it was game over for her. Having his tip hitting and stroking that spot made her pull the sheets in her fists, while her eyes went blank. He went in as deeper as their hips allowed him to, slowly pulling out before he moved back in again.

—Do you know you sound better live than when you're just touching yourself? —before she had time to ask him what he was talking about, he pointed with his eyes to the small hole she made on his first weeks there— And every fucking time I have to end up stroking my cock because of you. Aren't you tired of being like this?

She smirked, lifting her body up a little, supporting her weight on her elbows to be closer to his face.

—Maybe that was why I was doing it?

The frustration of not even wanting to find someone outside always left her alone with the thoughts of her neighbor doing the nastiest things to her. And it always ended up with a better orgasm she would have if she had gone out to meet somebody.

Was she too loud to tease him? Most definitely, yes. Just the idea of Jungkook hearing her moans was another push to her orgasm.

—Hmm? Let me show you how you can sound even better, then.

His movements were animalistic, out of control, he was hard and fast, barely allowing her to process anything that wasn't pleasure.

—Touch yourself while I fuck you, honey. Let me see how you do it.

Her fingers rubbed her clit with the same energy his hips collided against her -and that made her think they'd leave a mark the next day. She could feel her juices leaking out with each thrust, only driving her closer to that heavenly place she misses, after being there not even that long ago.

—Jungkook —she moaned his name for the first time.

—Say that again.

—Jungkook —the desperation in her voice made her crack in the middle of his name.

How needy she sounded and looked while his name left her lips gave him that one last push he needed to feel like he was floating. His thrusts started getting sloppier and arrhythmic, but he still pounded into her, twirling his fingers with hers to rub on her swollen clit.

Until she stopped hearing, and sight went blurry, feeling all of the hairs in her body raise as she lost control of herself.

Jungkook fell next to her, trying to gain his calm nature back as he controlled his shaky breathing and his fast heart beating, which only went faster when he looked at the woman next to her. Y/n had her eyes closed, moving her locks away from her face, before she finally opened them.

—Are you going to stay the night?

Y/n frowned, quickly turning to him to confirm whether he was kidding her or not, surprised when he looked completely serious.

—You want me to spend the night here?

He just nodded, looking at her with big brown puppy eyes.

—Did they hit you instead of me? —she looked at him surprised, lifting her upper body to look at him properly.

—Last time you made a scene because I left.

—So it's not because you want me to stay here, but because I called you out the last time? —she squinted her eyes, seeing him nodding again— Do you even know why I got mad?

—Because you look tough, but you're a romantic either way —he smiled—. You need a bit of love. It's alright, I'll give it to you.

Why did he always have to speak?

—It's... Are you serious? —she sat up on the bed.

—You don't need to hide it. You grew a crush on me, which it's totally normal —Y/n could only scoff at what she was hearing—. You were right: I need to be a bit more sympathetic with those who like me.

—Those who like you? Are you going to act like you aren't literally begging for this to happen every two business days?

—You don't need to hide it —he sighed, getting up from the bed.

—I'm not hiding anything! —she raised her voice out of exasperation— Is there a camera filming me? Because I really can't believe you're real.

—Oh, a camera... Next time we should try it —Jungkook winked at her.

—There would be no next time, Jungkook. This is the biggest mistake I could've ever made —she whined.

—Sure, sure. Last time you said the same thing, and see where you ended —he chuckled, acting like she was pretending not to like him—. I'll get cleaned up, you can go later.

When the door clicked with him inside, Y/n huffed, dragging her body out of the bed to pick up all of her clothes and her bag to get out of there. She complained when her feet hit something hard on his pants, feeling tempted to pick them up and throw them against his bathroom door, until he touched it and felt a familiar shape.

She only chuckled when she was able to unlock the phone by just sliding her finger through the screen. Not only did she get three orgasms, and a good night -despite Jungkook's big mouth-, she was also going to get rid of the only thing that kept him from helping her.

Jungkook smiled victoriously when he looked through the peephole to find Y/n completely dressed, wearing a simple t-shirt and tight jeans, while she waited for him to open his door. Her face looked a bit swollen, and there were a few bruises on her cheeks, and the wound on her lip took a darker red color, but she still looked as good as always.

He knew it was a matter of time before she came back.

He understood why she escaped to her place and decided to sleep on her own. He didn't mind seeing his room in silence after he took a quick shower -although it made him feel a bit uncomfortable with himself when he found himself a bit disappointed over not being able to spend the night with her.

—What brings my favorite neighbor here? Do you need a bit of sugar?

—No —she pushed him away, stepping inside his house without asking for permission.

—Come in. Make yourself at home...

—I came to talk about what happened yesterday, but not about what you think.

—So you aren't here to talk about sex? —he guessed, seeing her shake her head— Then what is it about?

—The article —she answered before continuing—. I don't care about that video you have. Post it online, do whatever you want. I need your insight on those fights. You have more to lose than I do if you don't help me...

—I'll do it.

—I knew you'd say that. Check your phone and change your mind... What? —Y/n looked at him confused at that sudden change of mind.

—I said I'd do it.

Seeing the lengths she was going to write that article, Jungkook couldn't just let her deal with it by herself. He knew that the previous night's fight was only a start, and she'd only get deeper in all that world she had no business in.

He had nothing to lose, it didn't cost him anything, and no one would know it was him. He didn't know why that article was that important, or if there was something deeper in all that issue that had her digging for it, but it was something she wouldn't be able to do by herself.

—When you abandoned me yesterday —he accused her, making her roll her eyes—, I had a lot of time to think.

—In the ten minutes it took you to fall asleep?

—How do you know?

—You snort like a bulldog. And that hole not only lets you hear my moans, but also your snoring —she pointed out.

—Anyway —he continued—, I'll be the better person and help you. It'd be a waste not to do it. By the way —he stopped—, why should I check my phone?

—Last night I deleted my video while you were in the shower.

Unbelieving of what she said, Jungkook took his phone out to check by himself that the video was indeed gone from his gallery, making him feel so dumb for not making a copy of it.

—Well, thank you for that —she sighed—. I'll tell you how we'll work on it tomorrow —she smiled widely.

—Wait, are you going? We aren't celebrating? Yesterday we left it at...

—Nowhere. We left it nowhere —she interrupted him.

As she closed the door, Jungkook smiled. She tried to hide it, but he was able to tell how much it excited her to have him agree on something she had insisted on so much. He quickly grimaced at himself, shaking his head and taking himself out of that web of thoughts.

He was doing her a favor to be the bigger person in the future, not because of her. 

Taglist: @jk97bam @ttanniett

[50calmadeuce]

Ch.7: The Talk

Disclaimer: This is a work of fan fiction using characters from the Top Gun: Maverick world, trademarked by Paramount Pictures Corporation. I do not claim ownership of the characters and the world that I am borrowing.

The story and situation I am creating are a work of my imagination and I do not ascribe them to official story canon. This work is for entertainment only and is not a part of the storyline.

I am not profiting financially from the creation and publication of this story, but I do hope it gives you happy thoughts.

These stories are my own, so please do not take them and use them for yourself without my permission. If you see them somewhere else, please let me know. :)

"I'm going to be the best damn fighter pilot ever," declares your now 'husband' with a conviction that lights up his eyes. A smile spreads across your face, both proud and supportive of his determination and dreams. He looked so good in his khaki Navy uniform.

"That's exactly what I expect from you," you reply, your voice laced with pride and affection. "And I'll be cheering you on every step of the way."

His green eyes meet yours, and in them, you see not just the fierce determination of a man set on conquering the skies but also the warmth and gratitude for your unwavering support.

He drew you in closer, his eyes searching yours. "You're okay with this?"

"Jake. I have school to finish. It's not like being a medical doctor, believe it or not. It's actually harder. How long will you be gone?"

"Six weeks."

"And you'll be stationed in Florida during that time?"

"Yes, Ma'am," he responded, his southern drawl adding a layer of charm to his words, paired with a grin that melted your heart. It was hard to believe that you were actually married to this man after just a week and a half. "I'll keep you updated on my next location." Leaning in, he kissed you—a kiss that was soft, filled with love and promise. As you parted from the embrace, your foreheads remained gently pressed together. "I promise, we'll have our honeymoon after everything settles down, Mrs. Seresin." His words, sincere and full of future promises.

You smiled. "Technically, it'll be Doctor Seresin, but I won't hold that against you." The light-hearted jest carried the warmth of your shared understanding and the mutual respect for each other's ambitions and titles.

As the memory gently receded, you completed preparing the hot cocoa, adding a splash of bourbon for an extra layer of warmth. Carrying two mugs into the living room, you found Jake settled on the couch. Handing him one of the cups, he accepted it with a nod.

"Thank you," he said, his voice carrying a hint of appreciation as he wrapped his hands around the warm mug.

Settling on the couch beside him, you draped the Aztec blanket from the back of the couch over your lap, embracing the warmth and comfort it offered. After taking a sip of the cocoa, its warmth spreading through you, you turned to look at him. "Start talking, Hangman."

Jake took a deep breath, the seriousness in your request evident. The cozy setting of the living room, with its gentle lighting and the quiet ambiance, contrasted sharply with the weight of the conversation that was about to unfold. He shifted slightly, turning to face you more directly, his expression a mix of determination and vulnerability.

"Alright," he began, his voice steady but laced with an undercurrent of emotion. "You know the missions we fly aren't exactly routine, but this last one... it was different. It was one of those moments where everything that could go wrong, did."

He paused, searching for the right words, his gaze momentarily drifting away before locking back onto yours. "We were deep in enemy territory, and we got ambushed. It was like they knew exactly where and when to hit us. Maverick and Rooster, they were in a tight spot, almost didn't make it out. And if it weren't for a split-second decision, they wouldn't have."

The weight of his words hung in the air, a testament to the danger and the razor-thin margins on which survival often hung in their line of work. He took a sip of his cocoa, perhaps seeking a momentary respite from the memories.

Understanding the constraints of his job meant he couldn't divulge everything, you appreciated the efforts he made to share as much as he could with you.

He shrugged, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "Let's just say I saved them at the last minute."

That familiar cockiness, a trait you knew well in your husband, surfaced, bringing a sense of normalcy and comfort to the conversation. It was these moments that reminded you of the strength and confidence that defined him.

The shift in his demeanor was palpable as his voice softened, weighed down by a sorrow that had lingered in the spaces between his words. "But I couldn't save our baby. I couldn't be here to protect you," he confessed, the vulnerability in his eyes as tears began to form, revealing the depth of his pain and regret. It was a stark reminder of the personal battles he faced, battles not against external enemies but against the circumstances that kept him from being there in your moment of need.

You gently set your cocoa down on the coffee table, carefully took his mug from his hands to place it beside yours, and then reached out to clasp his hands in yours. "Jake, I was just starting the third month," you began, holding his gaze with a tender yet steady look. "It was an accident that the horse kicked. We both know I just figured out I was pregnant."

Jake's face softened, the mention of the horse and the accident bringing back a flood of memories, each one tinged with the pain of what had been lost. His hands, strong yet gentle, squeezed yours in response, a silent acknowledgment of the shared heartache.

"I remember," he whispered, the words barely audible, yet laden with emotion. "I remember how excited we were, how much we looked forward to everything that was supposed to come next. And then…"

He trailed off, unable to finish the sentence, the weight of the loss momentarily overtaking him. The room seemed to shrink with the intensity of the moment, the air thick with unspoken feelings and the quiet sorrow of what could have been.

Taking a deep breath, he continued, "I know I wasn't there when you needed me most. I was… I was lost, Y/N."

"I know you were, but I love my job." You adjusted yourself. "It's better now. I work with a team now, so if I do, or we do, start a family, I won't be in that predicament." His eyes locked on yours as you took a breath, gathering your thoughts and emotions. "When I was making the cocoa in the kitchen, I thought back to the day you had to leave for your six-week fighter school. I remembered how confident you were—not just in what you wanted to do, but also in my goals and how we were going to navigate it all together. How you, someone I'd known for only a week and a half, could possess such unwavering confidence, I'll never fully understand. But it was in that moment I knew I loved you for it."

Jake's expression softened, the reminiscence touching something deep within him. The memory of that day, the emotions that had swirled between them, was a vivid reminder of the foundation upon which their relationship was built. It was a foundation of mutual respect, support, and an unshakeable belief in each other's dreams and abilities.

"I remember that day," Jake said, his voice tinged with a mix of nostalgia and affection. "I saw something in you, Y/N. A strength and determination that matched my own. You had this fire in your eyes, this passion for your work, for your dreams. It was impossible not to believe in you, in us. Hell, that's why I married you."

"I married you for the same reasons, Jake," you responded, your voice steady, laced with emotion.

"After I told you to quit your job because of the baby, I thought I lost you," he admitted, his voice carrying a note of vulnerability.

"Well, not calling or talking was pretty rough, and I can't say I didn't think about divorce," you confessed, the honesty in your voice cutting through the air between you.

Jake looked at you, a depth of understanding and gratitude shining through his gaze. "But yet, you stayed," he acknowledged, his voice soft yet filled with emotion.

You nodded, affirming his words. "I did because I knew you were hurting," you responded, your voice carrying a mix of empathy and resolve. "I got to see the confident and cocky side of my husband before he left. I never got to see what happens when something breaks him," you continued, your voice laced with a mixture of reflection and concern. Jake met your gaze, a complex mix of emotions flickering in his eyes as he processed your words. "And I have this feeling, I'm the only one that has seen that side of you." The weight of this realization seemed to settle between you, a silent acknowledgment of the intimacy and trust that defined your relationship.

Jake leaned forward, closing the distance between you, until your foreheads gently touched.

"You're right," Jake whispered, his voice a soft echo of the bond that tethered your hearts. "You are the only one who's seen me like that. I've always thought showing vulnerability was a weakness, especially in my line of work. But with you, I've come to understand it's a form of strength. Being open, honest, and vulnerable with you—it doesn't make me weaker; it makes me whole."

He pulled back slightly, just enough to look into your eyes, seeking and finding the solace he needed in their depths. "I guess what I'm trying to say is, you've always been my safe haven, a place where I can lay down the burdens I carry and just be me. Not the fighter pilot, not the officer, but just Jake. And I've never thanked you enough for that, for being my rock, my constant in a life filled with uncertainties, even when I wasn't there."

You reached out, your hand moving with a tenderness that conveyed the depth of your feelings, and gently placed it on the side of his face. Then slowly, you leaned in, closing the gap between the two of you with a sense of purpose and affection. The moment your lips met, it was as if time itself slowed down, allowing you both to fully immerse in the tenderness of the kiss.

At his family's ranch in Texas, under the expansive blue sky, you and Jake stood in front of a beautifully crafted country wedding arch adorned with wildflowers and soft, flowing fabrics that danced in the gentle breeze. The setting was picturesque, embodying the rustic elegance and warmth of the ranch that had been a significant part of Jake's life. You in your floral lace country wedding dress, and Jake in his dress whites. In front of the pastor, who wore a kind smile that reflected the joy of the occasion, you both prepared to exchange vows that would bind your lives together.

His sister, radiant in her role as your Matron of Honor, stood by your side, her presence a comforting and supportive force. Next to Jake, his brother-in-law, serving as the Best Man, wore a proud and approving look, clearly honored to play a pivotal role in this momentous day. The intimate gathering of family and close friends, all bearing witness to your union, created an atmosphere of love and celebration that seemed to envelop everyone in a shared happiness.

As you locked eyes with Jake, everything else seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you, ready to embark on this new journey together.

"Jake Seresin, do you take Y/N to be your lawfully wedded wife, to live together in the covenant of marriage? Do you vow to love her, comfort her, honor and cherish her, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, and to remain faithful to her alone, as long as you both shall live?" the pastor queried, his voice resonating with the solemnity of the moment.

With a depth of emotion and unwavering certainty, Jake responded, his gaze locked with yours, a silent promise reflected in his eyes. "I do," he affirmed, his words a testament to the strength of his commitment and love.

"Y/N, do you take Jake Seresin to be your lawfully wedded husband, to live together in the bond of marriage? Do you vow to love him, comfort him, honor, and cherish him, in good times and in bad, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, to be faithful only to him for as long as you both shall live?" the pastor inquired, his voice echoing the gravity of the commitment being made.

With a heart full of love and eyes shining with the promise of a shared future, you replied firmly and with unwavering conviction, "I do."

The pastor, witnessing the sincerity and strength of your vows, smiled warmly before turning to the gathered loved ones. "By the power vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

As Jake stepped forward, closing the distance between you, there was a sense of coming home. When his lips met yours, the kiss was a deep well of all the love you felt for each other, a promise made not just for today but for all the tomorrows to come.

The applause that erupted from your family and friends filled the air with a joyous cacophony, a celebration of love’s enduring power and the beginning of a new chapter in your lives. As you turned to face the world as husband and wife, hand in hand, it was with the knowledge that together, you could face whatever the future held.

Tags:

@buckysteveloki-me @bellyliveslife @tgmreader @callsign-barbell @86laura11 @dizzybee03 @kmc1989 @guacam011y @nerdgirljen @hookslove1592 @dempy @djs8891

[neyswxrld]

do you wanna build a snowman?

Wrecker x reader (gn)

summary: Building a snowman with Wrecker!

warnings: mostly fluff, a slight "misunderstanding", some kisses at the end

word count: ~930

advent calendar masterlist

a/n: this is the thirteenth fic for my advent calendar! for my favorite muscle man!

p.s. english isn't my mother tongue, sorry for misspellings! 

"You have never built a snowman?" you ask Wrecker, confused.

"Well, never saw that much snow before," he explains, scratching his neck.

With big eyes, you look him up and down before shaking your head and pulling Wrecker over to your wardrobe.

"We need to change that! Come on, you'll have to wear something warm, and then we can go outside," you tell him, grabbing another pair of pants to put on.

A few minutes later, you're wrapped in the most comfortable and warm clothes, standing in your garden.

"Look, it all starts with a small snowball. You form it, put it on the ground, and then you start rolling it. The snow from the ground sticks to the ball and it'll grow," you explain and show him how to do it right.

Wrecker nods once. He forms another small ball and starts to do what you said.

You roll and roll, watching the ball grow.

When you're satisfied with the size of your first ball, you look up to see how Wrecker is doing. Instead of one, he already had built two huge sections and is about to staple them.

You have absolutely no idea how he did it, but you're surely impressed by their size.

While your basement is so big that you wouldn't be able to lift it, it is barely big enough to be the head of Wrecker's snowman.

"Wow, Wrecker! How did you do that so fast?" you ask with big eyes, and walk over to him.

"I just did what you told me," he grins proudly and is about to make another ball when you stop him.

"Wait! I've got mine left. If you make another one that big, there wouldn't be enough for two snowmen," you tell him and run back to your ball, starting to move it over to him.

The thing is heavy, and with time, you even have problems rolling it.

Luckily, Wrecker comes to your help and starts to help you handle it, getting it closer to his creation.

"Can you lift it, Mesh'la?" he asks, already a mocking grin on his face. He exactly knows that he will be able to play your favorite muscle man, who has to come to your help in a few seconds.

But it's something you love him for, so you'll play along.

"Yeah, yeah. So funny," you roll your eyes, smiling, starting to grip the huge package of snow, trying to lift it up.

Nothing happens. Just like expected.

"Ahww, okay. Come on, big guy. Show me your muscles!" you laugh, stepping aside.

Wrecker nods happily and starts to lift the ball on top of the other two.

"It's huge!" you say, looking up at the snow figure that almost tops Wrecker in height.

"Thank you, Wrecker. Now we have to decorate it!" you say and start explaining to him what you would need.

After some time, you have found all the required things and start to make some stone buttons, while Wrecker puts arms made out of some sticks into the middle section.

Then you start to build a face, put a carrot in the highest snow sphere, and put a small plant pod on its head, so it looks like a little hat. Or, well, maybe it's more like Wrecker is following your instructions because you can't reach the head that well.

Satisfied, Wrecker and you both take a step back and look at your snowman together.

"It looks great!" you smile and lean into his side, enjoying his warmth.

"Yeah, think so, too," Wrecker mumbles, not as enthusiastically as you, and suddenly, you have a feeling that he didn't enjoy the whole process like you did.

Concerned, you turn around to him and look at his face, which has a troubled expression on it.

"Hey, what's up? Are you okay?" you ask, now seriously worried.

"I-... You wanted to build that snowman, but I was too fast and- and needed too much snow. And now you couldn't build your own snowman," Wrecker says, playing with his fingers uncertainly.

You look at him confused before realization hits you, and the corners of your lips start to rise automatically.

"Oh, Wrecker! Stop thinking like that. You wanted to build one, too. And you've never even built one before. Of course, you have priority," you start to explain, stepping in front of him and taking his hands into yours.

"Besides, it's just snow. It won't be the last time we can build a snowman. And on top of that, I think it was really lovely to build one with you together. I'd rather build a hundred of them together with you than a single one on my own," you smile at him, squeezing his hands a little tighter.

Wrecker nods slightly.

"Yeah, it really was fun to do that together," he says and starts to smile, too.

Happily, you come a little bit closer and stand on your toes, leaning into him.

Wrecker's grin grows wider when he sees what you're up to. He leans down a bit and meets you in the middle.

Your lips touch, and in an instant, small butterflies start to rise in your chest. Everything gets warm and you sigh a little bit before leaning in closer, putting your hands on his cold cheeks, and deepening the kiss.

Wrecker puts his strong arms around you and pulls you closer to his chest.

And while you're standing there, sharing sweet kisses, quiet whispers and shy smiles, you almost don't notice how the clouds thicken and the snow starts to fall again.

It definitely won't be the last snowman you'll build together.

TAGLIST:

@isthereanechoinhere96 @trixie2023

[takemebacktowheniwassane]

Falsettos Incorrect Quotes! (p.1)

[Also, deeply sorry about coming back with another random musical hyperfixation. I'll try to get motivated to finish up the DEH series!] - Whizzer: Can you come out? Marvin: Yeah, just one second. Marvin: Whiz, I'm gay. Whizzer: I know that. Come out to the car. Marvin: Okay. Marvin: Car, I'm gay. - Whizzer: We're playing Scrabble. It's a nightmare. Jason: Scrabble? Scrabble's great. Whizzer: Not when you're playing with Marvin, it's not. He puts down words like "ephemeral" and I put down "dog." - Mendel: Bonjour, Trina. Voules-vous coucher avec moi? Trina, unfazed: No, I do not want to sleep with you. Mendel: Oh, man, is that what that means? I had a really gross tennis instructor. - Whizzer: Don't worry, I have a permit. Charlotte: ..This just says "I can do what I want." - Marvin: Trina, do it for our friendship- you can't put a price on that! Trina: Yes, I can, dear. Fifty dollars. - Jason: I've never once smoked marijuana. I ate a brownie once at a party. It was intense. It was kind of indescribable. I felt like I was floating. Turns out, there was no pot in the brownie... it was just an insanely good brownie. - Marvin: Can you name a single city in Oklahoma? Whizzer: Oklahoma City, bitch! - Marvin: Being gay is a constant struggle between "I wish to sit on a window bench with my lover, our legs entangled as we listen to the birds", and "Hey, let's go throw rocks at fascists" and I think that's very sexy of us. Whizzer: If the window's open and you time it correctly, you can do both. - Mendel: Okay, is anyone in this room actually straight? Marvin: *Raises his hand* Whizzer: *Puts Marvin's hand down* - Cordelia: You know what I've realized? Marvin: Some thoughts are better left unsaid? Cordelia: Nice try, anyways- - Jason: I think mostly I wanna see what happens when this whole place breaks apart. - Marvin: The next time I open up to somebody, it'll be my autopsy. - Trina: Jase... Jason: I can tell by the tone of your voice that I've disappointed you. Alas, I must further disappoint you by affirming that I do not give a fuck. - Whizzer: New year, same me. Cuz' Im perfect. - Mendel, excited: Heyy! Trina: Hey, someone's excited. Marvin, deadpan: Yeah, and it's making me sick. - Mendel: If I punch myself and it hurts, am I strong or weak? Trina: Strong! Whizzer: Weak. Marvin: An idiot. That's what you are. - Cordelia: Are you alright? Charlotte: Short answer, or long answer? Cordelia: Short? Charlotte: No. Cordelia: Long? Charlotte: Noooooo. - Cordelia: Treat spiders the way you want to be treated! Marvin: Killed without hesitation. - Whizzer: I'm hot, I'm tall, I'm gay, and I'm in my theater kid arc. - Charlotte: Seriously, all you do is bitch. Marvin: I happen to bitch the perfect amount for someone in my situation. - Trina: Unfortunately, due to several experiences in my youth, I cannot just 'walk up and join a circle of people talking', but it does sound lovely, thank you. - Trina, answering the phone: Hello? Jason: It's Jason. Trina: What did he do this time? Jason: No, it's me, Jason. It's actually me. Trina: What did you do this time? - Marvin: I saw Whizzer for the first time in years.. Jason: And? Marvin: I told him I was an Olympic gymnast. Jason: What? Why?? Marvin: You know when you get nervous, and you end up lying to impress? Jason: ..No. Marvin: Exactly, we've all done it. - Cordelia: My knee just cracked so loudly that I half-expected it to glow in the dark tonight- - Marvin: You know, when I first met you, I thought you were a real bitch. Whizzer: What changed your mind? Marvin: Oh, I still think your a bitch, I've just grown to like that about you. - Marvin: Would I rather be feared, or loved? Easy. Both. I want people to fear how much they love me.

[twoidiotwriters1]

The Curse of Oenone (Leo Valdez xFem!Oc)

A/N: Something about Nico, he will always choose violence (when it comes to Ara) -Danny Words: 2,204 Series' Masterlist Previous Chapter // Next Chapter Listen to: 'Sign of the Times' -by Harry Styles

XXXII: *Sobbing* I'm Fine!

Leo is waiting for them at the top of the gangplank, he grins and waves at the group, then his eyes focus on Frank and her. The moment she reaches his side and Leo has to look up to meet her gaze, he flushes to a cherry tone Ara has never seen on his face.

He speaks in a strangled voice. "Ares?"

"Mars. I don't know, I doubt it matters," Ara says, self-conscious about their height difference. "How does it look?"

"You could crash my skull with your thighs," he blurts out.

Hazel gasps, fanning her face scandalized at his comment. "Gods, I hate you," Nico groans, guiding his flustered sister away from them.

Ara hurries past Leo and goes to her cabin to check her reflection, her breath hitches at the sight: she looks exactly like Arachne's tapestry minus the cape and hair. Yesterday she had baby fat around her face, her abs were a soft belly, and now she looks like a high school senior who never misses a workout. Arms toned and longer legs—she barely fits in the mirror, since it was designed for a girl that was 5'3.

"Holy crap," she breathes. Someone knocks on her door, and she finds Nico standing there, waiting to be let in. "I'm tall," she states in shock.

"Congrats. What was the fight about? The one you had with Lily?"

Ara knows this will bring an argument, but if it doesn't happen today, it'll happen at an even worse time. "I told her we couldn't trust you."

Nico visibly tenses. "I'm not surprised."

Ara turns to face him properly. "I had a good reason, you know what I'm talking about."

Nico's eyes darken. "My dad forbade me to talk about it. One of your patrons—your main patron, or did you forget?"

"How can I? Ever since that day, I've been the babysitter of his little prince."

"I told you I wanted no part of your stupid camp, but it was you who promised—"

"You needed a place to live—"

"You expected everyone to act like I don't creep them out."

"Oh, cry me a river," Ara walks past him. "I've got more important things to do than to listen to the same complaints on repeat."

"Crap!" Ara struggles with the damaged oar, she hisses when it scratches her palm. "Leo, I forgot my gloves, can you toss them over?"

Leo seizes her Octopi bag and rummages through its contents. "You didn't grab them? That's basic gear, Ara."

"I don't do basic," she responds.

Leo looks over the railing. "Say what?"

"It's like maths," Ara squints when she looks up. "Unnecessary."

The boy holds onto the handrail as he leans in dramatically. "You think is what?"

"Oh no..." She mumbles and tilts her head. "My scolding senses are tingling..."

Leo scowls. "Get your ass back here—and be careful."

He doesn't reprimand her like, ever, not even tries to, but his job is the one thing he takes seriously, so Ara climbs back on deck and dusts off her hands expecting the berating of the week. 

Leo spots the scrape on her hand and searches for his tool belt. "You almost lost an arm last December and you think being careful is unnecessary?"

"Oh, that was different," Ara watches Leo heal her. "Silly things—"

"Silly?" Leo looks up and his eye twitches. "Fixing the oars and giving Festus an upgrade ain't like changing the batteries of a TV remote, sweetheart. And maths? You need maths!"

She laughs nervously. "You okay?"

"Arae Jackson, that's negligence!" He exclaims. "Is this why they call you Dr Frankenstein back in camp?"

"Oh, you know about that?" She asks unbothered.

"That's it, you're not allowed to work on the repairs."

Her mouth opens in shock. "Leo, you know I'm a good repairperson, don't do this!"

"You heard me," he tries to take the harness off her, muttering grumpily. "Don't do maths, seriously..."

"Hey! Stand back!" Ara keeps him away. Leo is smaller than her now and he was never strong to begin with. "I'll finish the task whether I'm wearing the harness or not!"

"You're not helping yourself!" Nico speaks out of nowhere, both teens looking up to see him at the top mast.

"Stay out of this!" Ara seizes Leo's wrist. "Stop!"

It's kind of cute, seeing him angry over this. Reminds her of Mike a bit, which makes her feel kind of guilty. "Promise you'll be careful in the right way, not yours!"

Ara rolls her eyes. "Can I have my gloves, then?"

"Put them on before you go back," Leo crosses his arms. "I don't understand why Beckendorf made you Cabin Nine's right-hand girl if you ignore safety procedures."

"Beck had the knowledge, I had the spirit," she puts the gloves on with an amused expression. "Anyway... I need insulation stuff—the spongy one? And Industrial glue, and the..." She makes a gesture as if holding something and puffs some air out of her lips. "To fuse the bronze to the hull..."

"Insulation foam, industrial glue, metal welding kit—and bronze-welding rods to reattach the frame to the hull," the boy turns to get the goods.

Ara beams. "And welding goggles."

"'Course," Leo grabs stuff from his toolbox, the rest are from his magic belt. Ara stands there waiting. "Anything else?"

"Your hand in marriage?"

"Dang it, woman! You can't make me forget how irresponsible you are by love-bombing me!" Leo exclaims, handing the tools to her.

Ara puts the goggles on. "Seriously, Cabin Nine kids can tell what I'm talking about after a few tries, but you don't even think about it, that's awesome."

Leo looks away to hide his blush. "Your brain works similarly to mine, that's all. It's why we're attracted to each other in the first place."

It's nice to hear that's what Leo thinks about their situation. "We're soulmates." She says it so matter-of-factly that it makes Leo light up as much as the sun. Ara clears her throat and steps back. "Well, I'm going..."

"Yeah," Leo mumbles, a little smile playing on his face. "I'll be watching, my soon-to-be fiancé."

Above them, Nico groans again, but they both ignore him.

Leo has long forgotten he's supposed to be checking Ara's work while installing Festus's upgrade. Instead, he's just eyeing her, trying not to be obvious, but doing a terrible job.

He can't even hate the fact that she's taller than him by a lot. She's the only demigod that looks god-like in his eyes, Ara's beauty grows with every blessing, no smudge of dirt she gets from her hard work can take it away. When she moves, her body gets framed by the dying sunlight in a way that makes Leo lightheaded.

She's wearing the hair tie he made for her, holding her shiny brown locks in a loose braid, and the way she scrunches up her nose in concentration, the tip of her tongue poking out... The more he looks, the more his heart races. 

She was once out of his league, now she's out of everyone's orbit. She's skillful and experienced, and Leo has a hard time understanding why she would love someone as inconsequential as him.

"You should be careful."

Nico's voice comes to remind him not everything is perfect. Leo jumps out of his skin and swears in Spanish, he glares at the tall boy standing behind him. "Dude, can you not do that?"

Nico doesn't apologize before adding to his comment. "Ara's fool's gold."

Leo frowns. "What?"

Nico glances at the girl, he's angry at her for trying to convince Lily, his only friend, to stop trusting him. Two can play the same game. "She looks good, then you get closer and realize it's all pretend. You call her a doll, right?" He laughs shortly. "That's accurate. Ara likes playing with boys like you."

Leo's fists start to smoke. "Don't you mean boys like us?"

Nico's taken by surprise, a creepy smile forms on his face when he understands what Leo is insinuating. He won't clear up the misunderstanding, Leo has the same arrogant air Ara has when challenged, and is always far more entertaining to watch those kinds of people trip over their feet.

Nico steps closer. "I can get under her skin like no one else. Have you ever asked her why she loathes having me around? You should. She doesn't like to be questioned, so you'll get to see the real Arae."

"She's the General," Leo replies tensely. "You're not supposed to question her, smartass."

Nico's smirk grows. "I see why she likes you." The boy turns to leave. "Ask her."

"I know why she hates you," Leo says confidently, which causes Nico to laugh again.

"No, you don't," he reaches the stairs. "Ask her about the curse."

Ara takes a look at the finished product. "Good as new, right?"

Festus blows out steam and Ara recoils, feeling the air around her get hotter when he does that. She takes off the goggles and dries the sweat off her brow. 

"I'll take that as a yes."

The moon is high above but very thin, so Ara has a bit of trouble finding her way back to the deck, she doesn't notice Leo until she's right under the handrail. The boy's watching in silence with a scowl on his face. 

She jumps over the railing landing on both feet, then dusts off her hands, and nods at Leo. "Hey."

He walks over to the control board. "Hey."

"I'm done," she announces proudly. "I was very safe the whole time."

"Good job," he checks the monitor. "Festus's stable, so are the oars." 

Leo looks at her doing a quick scan. Ara is covered in sweat and grime, her cheeks are flushed... he can't think of any girl who would look better than she does like this, but Nico succeeded in his attempt to plant a seed of doubt, and Leo can't shake off the feeling that Ara has been lying to him about something.

Besides, he once overheard Percy and Ara talking, and her brother mentioned an old crush she used to have on Nico... Leo panicked and sneaked back to his cabin after hearing that, but the words stuck in his brain and he couldn't take them out.

Ara sighs. "I promise to be careful from now on, I'll use a calculator and everything..."

Leo's seen the way she looks at him lately, like it hurts to be near him. At first, he thought it was guilt because she'd decided to leave her camp, but now... What if the love's fading out between them?

"I..." he starts quietly, swallowing the lump in his throat. "How do you feel?"

"Great!" She smiles. "I'd missed it, getting my hands dirty reminded me of home, it made me feel useful."

"You're always useful," he replies. "But you definitely have a natural aptitude for mechanics."

"I was fated to," Ara replies casually. "Thank you for letting me do this."

"You don't have to thank me. You're the General."

"Yeah, well..." she continues, now trying to ignore his weird vibes. "I'll go take a shower before dinner."

Leo blurts out the first thought in his mind. "I didn't know someone could make me this stupid."

Leo would rather jump into Tartarus than tinker with something that doesn't need fixing... but what if it does? Sometimes a machine doesn't look broken, but it malfunctions anyway. He can't deny that their relationship feels... unbalanced. A creation jumpstarted without all the necessary precautions, and there's a buzzing coming from it that Leo can't identify, but it's making his skin crawl.

Ara is unsure of where this is going. "What's wrong?"

He can't think when her eyes are on him like this, he has this urge to make her smile, and he doesn't know where that comes from. Sure, he loves making people laugh, but with Ara... it almost feels like an obligation.

He struggles to form a proper sentence. "I think you're lying to me."

Ara pales, which is not a good sign. "What?"

"You wanted to jump off the cliff," he continues. "And you tried to leave us when Reyna cornered us at the Fort—"

"Leo—"

"Let me finish," he presses anxiously. "You weren't surprised when Nemesis gave you that weird warning, and you've been acting even weirder since we rescued di Angelo—"

"I—"

"Don't lie to me," he demands. "Your prophecy mentions a curse—The curse of love. Does that mean—"

"This is Nico talking," Ara's eyes darken. "I thought he was ending his shift, but he came to taunt you, didn't he?"

Leo feels like throwing up, but more than that, he feels insulted. "So what if he did?"

"He wants us to get into an argument," Ara steps forward. "Don't let him do this!"

Leo steps back. "Then answer my question."

Unexpectedly, her eyes brim with tears. "I can't."

Some part of him that he's not even aware of triggers, Leo is too distraught to think, his heart is breaking. "You said promises were important to you, but you're not keeping yours."

"There are things that I need to keep under control," she speaks with a trembling voice.

"What things?" He asks bitterly. "Me?"

"Don't say that!" She squeezes the gloves in her hands. "We've failed too many times, Leo. I can't risk it. As your General, I'm telling you to stay out of it."

Leo doesn't like how she says that, her voice weighs like it carries centuries of painful memories, and it sounds like Ara thinks Leo will ruin her plans, and that stings.

"Chiron was right," he says aghast. "Your ambition blinds you. No matter what the outcome is, it's never enough, is it?"

Ara can't stand another second of that conversation, so she abandons it, and Leo doesn't stop her.

Next Chapter –>

Taglist.

@siriuslysirius1107 @ask-giggles1303 @asnyox-the-hoarder @im-planning-something-look @bandshirts-andbooks @coolninjapaper @thewaterlily @whenisthefall @1randomcomic @you-bloody-shank @sunflowergraves @owlalex44 @taylordaughter @typicalsolangelolover @writingmia @espressopatronum454 @slytherinnqueen @orbitingpolaris @obxstiles @ellipsisspelled @thepixiechicksh

[philomenie]

Shadow Warrior

Hitman! Jolly - Part 2

CN despair, grief, mafiatheme, violence, sexual tension, cheating, guilt, explosions, death +18

If I forgot to mark something as CN, please let me know so I can add it!

@nojoyontheburn @jilliemiw86 @dsireland86 @aubrey-melinoe

FIVE

Doi, meanwhile, is close to going crazy with fear for Olivia. His men barely dare go near him, the mafia boss rages. “Where is he?” asks Nicholas, whom Geto has called. “Office!” nods Geto. “Good!” sighs Nicholas and heads off, hearing Geto's angry voice the closer he gets to his sprawling office.

“NO, NO, CERTAINLY NOT.... I NEED THE INFORMATION NOW, NOT TOMORROW, BUT NOW!” he shouts into his cell phone. Nicholas quietly closes the door behind him, then sits down in one of the comfortable armchairs that are grouped in a corner of the office. “YES, EXACTLY!!! I'M GLAD YOU UNDERSTAND NOW! SO FUCK YOU!” he continues to shout and then hangs up, slamming his cell phone on the table. “NO ONE KNOWS WHERE HE DROPPED HER!” he yells at Nicholas. “That was obvious.....” he grumbles, ”We have to take out Folio, the sooner the better, and find Olivia!”

Doi leans against his desk, wiping his face with his hands, “God damn it, I can't imagine what he's doing to her right now......” “Then don't do it! It'll upset you too much! You have to stay calm, Nobu, even for Olivia, especially for Olivia. Calm, cool, deliberate, and act. Otherwise....” Nicholas explains. “I know... but... Nick.... Just the thought of her being with him, what he could do to her, drives me crazy...” gasps Doi. Nicholas stands up and puts his hand on his friend's shoulder, “I know Nobu, just thinking about him having Nadja in his fingers....” Silently and understandingly, both men look into each other's eyes. “So what do we do!” sighs Doi. “I spoke to Perez on the phone earlier, weapons, ammunition are all on their way here already. Should be here tomorrow morning and then we'll do exactly what that little asshole does all the time, hit him where he doesn't expect it!” growls Nicholas. “What do you have in mind?” Doi nods slowly.

“Jelena....” Nicholas explains dryly, ”Nadja thinks he's really infatuated with his wife.....” “How do we get our hands on her and when?” Doi wants to know immediately. “She has routines, Nadja is proactive, has had her under surveillance for some time. If she keeps them up, we'll have her in our hands by noon tomorrow,” growls Nicholas. “And Olivia by evening at the latest....” Doi completes the sentence and Nicholas nods slowly, hoping that it's not too late for Olivia. The thought of passing on Nadja's idea to Doi that Karlsson could also have Olivia, if he really is here, briefly flits through his mind, but then he quickly dismisses it again so as not to make Doi go completely mad. Because in the state his friend is in right now, he would no longer distinguish between friend and foe and would probably have Karlsson eliminated.

Nicholas is already on his way back to Nadja when his cell phone buzzes. Irritated, he looks at his display and turns pale. Fuck..... he knew it! “Joakim.....” he answers immediately. “I need the new papers for Olivia... as soon as possible!” Joakim replies immediately. “Please tell me you have them with you!” gasps Nicholas. “Of course I have them with me!” growls Joakim darkly, ”What did you think? That I'd leave her to Folio's men, not look after her? Leave her to Doi?” “No.... And that's what I was counting on.... God, I'm relieved!” Nicholas breathes out in relief, ”Where are you?” “So you can tell Doi?” hisses Joakim angrily. “Joakim... you know I would never do that!” Nicholas explains seriously, ”What he did to you and her is beyond words and you know I never approved of it!” “I know!” Joakim grumbles and before he can speak any further, Olivia takes the cell phone from his hand. “I'm glad you didn't approve, NICHOLAS!” she spits at him. “Olivia.....” Nicholas winces. “Yes, OLIVIA!” she hisses at him, ”That you and Nadja did this to me and him..... I could strangle you all!” “I know... and believe me, I wouldn't put up with it again,” Nicholas explains seriously. “I'm sure there won't be a repeat of this! Bring the papers so we can get out of here and you can bang your fucking heads, I don't care about you all then.....” Olivia hisses at him. “Understandable...” nods Nicholas, ”But Olivia, please don't forget, Folio has you on his list too, as we now know.... He's not going to let up on getting his hands on you to destroy Nobu!” “I don't give a shit about Noah... he'll be lucky if he never has to face me again..... and when we're out of here, then....” Olivia growls angrily and flinches in surprise as Joakim snatches the cell phone from her fingers again. “You still see Folio as a danger to Olivia?” he demands to know, grumbling. “Yes.... He wants a complete takeover by any means necessary, to harm Nobu and Nadja as much as possible, to destroy them. What's the best way to do that? By killing the people closest to you to weaken you so much that you make mistakes, buckle, lose your mind. You know how it works, I don't have to explain it to you,” Nicholas explains seriously. “Absolutely!” growls Joakim, looking at Olivia with flaming eyes, ”I should have taken her with me in the first place. It's just as much my fault that she's in danger again as Nobus and Nadja's, yours......” Olivia looks at him, speechless. “Folio must be rendered harmless.....”, Nicholas blurts out. “I agree with you!” Joakim grumbles. “Wait a minute... Stop, no, no, no... this is going in one direction again.... STOP IT!!! We're leaving, we're out of all this then.....” gasps Olivia. “It doesn't seem that easy, min Liv!” growls Joakim angrily and Nicholas agrees. “FUCK... no, no, not again... OH God, I won't survive this.....” Olivia cries, shaking. “I'll get back to you later!” Joakim quickly explains and pulls Olivia back into his arms. “Shh, min Liv... calm down!” he whispers tenderly. “No... please, let's go... please don't have that nightmare again....” Olivia cries unrestrainedly against his chest. “Nothing will happen again! Nothing bad will happen!” Joakim kisses her, ”Have a little faith in me, will you?” “God.... You've said that before... and then?” Olivia sobs out. “I know, but I also told you that I would always come back to you.... And I did....” Joakim whispers lovingly. “After fuckin' two fucking years of hell!” Olivia cries bitterly. “I know... and I'm so sorry, min Liv!” he caresses her face tenderly, ”This will never happen again, I swear to you!” “Joakim it WILL happen again if we stay here!!! I can feel it!” Olivia whimpers desperately.

“No, it won't. But Nicholas is right... as long as Folio is alive, he's a danger, a danger to you and I won't let that happen!” Joakim rumbles. “He won't find us if we're careful!” pleads Olivia. “But... min Liv.... He will find us! Without Doi's protection, it's hopeless!” Joakim declares sternly. Olivia's mind races, “What if we ask Doi to give us protection? He owes it to you, to us!” “Do you really want him in your life any more?” Joakim asks bitterly. Olivia looks at him blankly. Joakim clenches his jaw, “I've seen you, several times.... How you were out together.... You were with him, he was with you......” he whispers harshly. Olivia looks at him, stunned, and she goes cold as ice, God, does he know we were in bed together too? Noah and I, it hammers in her head.

“I....” she swallows, unable to get another word past her lips for sheer fear of losing this beloved man again. “I thought you were together..... so.... But I couldn't just leave, that would have been even more painful!” he whispers harshly. Olivia begins to tremble, she notices dizziness and nausea setting in, her heart races and cold sweat breaks out of her every pore. Joakim, noticing her physical change, sits up worriedly, “Liv, what's wrong?” he asks, startled.

“Panic attack....” gasps Olivia and has to hold on to him, clutching his arm. “What should I do?” Joakim wants to know immediately. “Just hold me tight! Please.....” Olivia pleads chokingly. “Of course, min Liv!” Joakim whispers earnestly and pulls her close, lying back in bed with her and trying to calm her down as best he can, murmuring caresses in Swedish and Olivia breaks down completely, clinging to him, sobbing and trembling. God, she can't lose him again... what has she done? Getting into bed with Doi... oh dear God, please, don't ever let him find out, Olivia pleads in her head as Joakim gently cradles and caresses her. “Olivia is with Joakim!” Nicholas whispers to Nadja after he has laid down next to her and cuddled her in his arms. “Really?” Nadja looks up, relieved, “Hmm, she's safe. It's like you said, he's been watching her the whole time, looking out for her....” sighs Nicholas. “When did he come back?” Nadja wants to know, ”And does Doi know about it?” “Since when exactly, I don't know, but I guess a good while now and I haven't told Nobu yet!” sighs Nicholas again. “You're afraid of how he'll react....” Nadja looks at him questioningly. “Yes!” Nicholas nods gloomily, ”Nobu is just beside himself with fear of losing Olivia, even though he has never had her, will never have her. Not the way he wants it....I'm afraid he's having a short-circuit reaction right now!”

“But he must know that she's safe!” whispers Nadja. “Yes... but I don't know how to tell him that she's safe, but that he's lost her forever.....” snorts Nicholas. “I don't know that either..... But Nicky, he can't hurt Joakim! That can't happen under any circumstances!” gulps Nadja. “I'll make sure of that, and I'll remind him that he'd lose Olivia all the more if he did, she'd really kill him for it!” growls Nicholas, ”But now I want to get some sleep. I'm dog-tired!” “That's ok.... And I thought all-nighters were nothing new for you!” Nadja teases him. Grumbling, Nicholas raises an eyelid tiredly and looks at her mockingly, “There's a difference between me doing this for my babies and me having to do it because some idiot has to start stressing, raising hell.....” “I know...” Nadja kisses him tenderly, ”I'm just teasing you.....” But Nicholas can't really calm down, because he still doesn't know how to gently tell Nobu that he's lost Olivia forever.....

It's even worse than Nicholas imagined and for a moment he regrets just telling Nobu..... His relief when he hears Olivia is safe, followed by a frown and then that outburst when he finds out WHERE she is and WHO she's with.... Nicholas stands stoically in Nobu's study, which he turns into kindling with his bare hands and feet. Furious, Nobu grabs Nicholas and pulls him towards him by his collar, “YOU knew WHERE he was, you helped him!” With a cold expression on his face, Nicholas frees himself from Nobu's grip, smoothing out his jacket, “Of course... and I will continue to help him! And YOU my friend, leave him alone!” Nobu looks as if he would like to eat Nicholas. His eyes glow darkly, his hair hangs stringy in his face, his hands clenched into fists.

“Calm down! We now have time to plan everything in peace. Olivia is safe!” Nicholas explains coolly, ”You knew this would happen!” “He took her from me!” rumbles Nobu vindictively. “God, Nobu, come to yourself! YOU took her away from HIM and you're lucky you didn't pay for it with your life! And now you want to get between them? Are you still in your right mind?” Nicholas hisses angrily, ”I've never seen you like this..…”

“Because I've never felt SO much for a woman as I do for her!” growls Nobu bitterly. “Well... that's YOUR problem, my friend! Deal with it or it'll eat you up. If you really love Olivia, leave her alone, because she doesn't want you, she wants him, only ever wanted him.” growls Nicholas. “WHERE are they?” he then wants to know. “I don't know, Karlsson didn't want to tell me, to prevent you from showing up or sending men to him.” Nicholas explains distantly, ”A legitimate concern, I'd say!” “You think I'm going to have him killed in front of her?” snaps Nobu. “Maybe not in front of them.....” hisses Nicholas, then takes a deep breath, ”Listen... leave them both alone. They want it this way, Give me Olivia's papers, I'll bring them to them.” “Folio will keep hunting her anyway, because he apparently knows what she means to me!” Nobu rumbles. “Yes, I fear that too, just like Karlsson!” nods Nicholas. “So Karlsson fears it too.... Then he knows that he can never protect her in his life.... Only I can!” growls Nobu. “Hmm, like you protected her from Folio's men?” Nicholas interjects and Nobu would have loved to jump down his friend's throat again. “HE protected her....” Nicholas adds and Nobu thunders his fist onto the desk behind him. Shaking, he holds his bleeding knuckles. “Like I said... get a grip, otherwise Folio will have an easy time with us and you won't just lose Olivia!” sighs Nicholas, taking a handkerchief from his jacket and handing it to Nobu, ”For your knuckles!”

When Nicholas has gone, Nobu's rage and despair continue to race through him. Yes, he had to expect Karlsson to show up again... Fuck should he have let him die right away? As badly injured as he was, he certainly wouldn't have noticed. But he just didn't have the heart to do it back then. To this day, he's still not sure how he got into this shitty situation in the first place. But when he saw Olivia for the first time, it was as if a light had come on inside him. Olivia had him from the moment she walked into his life and he couldn't help but try to win this incredible woman over. By almost any means necessary. Nobu has to breathe in and out deeply to get himself back under control. Nicholas is right, if he completely loses it now, Folio will have an easy time of it. So he has to postpone the problem of Karlsson until later, when Folio has been dealt with and is no longer a threat. And then he can devote himself to Karlsson.... Nobu doesn't know how yet, but he can't just give up Olivia without a fight. But he can't just kill him, Nobu knows that, otherwise he would have lost Olivia all the more... No, he has to find another way to make Olivia leave him voluntarily.

Nobu begins to think about it.

“How did he take it?” Nadja wants to know as Nicholas walks back to her. “What do you think!” snorts Nicholas, taking off his jacket and throwing it on one of the armchairs in the spacious bedroom that he and Nadja will be occupying in Nobu's house for the next few months. “So bad...” sighs Nadja. “Even worse!” sighs Nicholas and lies down next to Nadja, taking her in his arms, ”But he'll calm down again. He HAS to calm down and he knows it. First Folio has to be switched off....” “And then?” Nadja wants to know tonelessly.

“Then I'm afraid Nobu might do something very, very stupid,” sighs Nicholas. “You have to stop him. He mustn't kill Joakim...” Nadja begs him again. “I will do that! Don't worry, I'll take care of that!” Nicholas kisses her, ”But now please calm down and rest, the doctors said you should take it easy!” “Hmm,” grumbles Nadja, who is getting tired of being in bed, but she complies. The fear of losing her unborn child is still deep inside her and she doesn't want to take any risks. “Sergei and Boris are here too.... They're staying in Doi's guest house!” Nicholas continues quietly. “Good!” Nadja sighs and snuggles up to him. “It's all going to be okay!” whispers Nicholas, ”We'll kill Folio, then it'll be safe again....” “Hmm,” grumbles Nadja, ”that wanker blew up my townhouse... I could put a bullet in his head for that alone! Not to mention my dead men!”

“Yes... he's a dead man who just doesn't know it yet!” yawns Nicholas and looks at his watch. “Do you have any plans?” Nadja wants to know. “Hmm, no... Or rather, it depends on Nobu whether he gives me Olivia's new papers....” sighs Nicholas. “And when you have them, do you want to meet Joakim?” Nadja wants to know quietly. “Yes!” nods Nicholas. “Take me with you, please... I need to see him... talk to him, apologize to him!” Nadja begs. “No way! You stay here in this fucking bed, safe!” snorts Nicholas. “I'm not sick and I can take good care of myself!” hisses Nadja. “Not a chance, Querida!” growls Nicholas, ”You don't have to see him to apologize to him, you can call him!” “What if he doesn't want to talk to me? Besides, I just have to see him.....” asks Nadja again. “No!” Nicholas shakes his head sternly, ”You're not going to put yourself and our child in danger over this. If you need to see him, we can arrange everything after this is over. But now it's just too dangerous!” “Hmm,” Nadja grumbles angrily again, ”I can decide that for myself!” “Yes, but it would be incredibly stupid and you're not stupid, you're just pregnant and your hormones are ticking... just take my word for it!” grins Nicholas. “Nicholas Ryan Ruffilo... you're dangerously close to becoming a dead man...” Nadja hisses and grabs his throat. Grinning, Nicholas puts his hand in hers and shifts to kiss her, “I honestly missed THAT, Querida!” he whispers. “Hmm, me too....” sighs Nadja and returns his kiss hungrily. “We should still be careful, the doctor said....” whispers Nicholas regretfully, running his hands over her body.

“FUCK...” Nadja gasps in frustration, but pulls away from him a little. “We'll soon be over that too!” smiles Nicholas and kisses her again, ‘And then...’ he grins mischievously and pulls her close to him.

Snuggled up in one of his hoodies and sweatpants, Olivia sits on the couch and watches Joakim prepare breakfast for them both... well, brunch rather... because it's almost lunchtime. She can't take her eyes off him as he busies himself in the small kitchen. Her eyes caress his skin, his face. He has tied his long hair back in a half bun and finally looks relaxed again. Olivia notices that he is hardly limping or shaking. “What are you looking at, min Liv?” Joakim asks with a smile. “You!” Olivia sighs happily, ”Just you!” “Hmm,” Joakim grumbles, his smile widening, brightening. “This... it feels so normal... just like always....” Olivia whispers softly. He looks at her, nodding, “Yes, min Liv... that's right!” Olivia reaches a hand out to him and Joakim leans in to take it. “It's going to stay that way... isn't it?” she wants to know quietly. Joakim goes to her, sits down next to her and pulls her onto his lap. Olivia wraps her arms around his neck and buries her face in the crook of his neck. “It will stay like this, min Liv...” he whispers tenderly, ”You don't need to be afraid anymore!” “I never want to lose you again....” Olivia whispers softly. “You won't, min Liv, never again!” whispers Joakim lovingly. Olivia chews nervously on her lower lip until Joakim notices.

“Hmm, what's wrong, min Liv?” he wants to know quietly. “I...” Olivia shifts nervously. “Hmm, if you keep going like this, breakfast will fall out....” he whispers in her ear and Olivia becomes aware of his growing excitement. She immediately stops her movements, “Sorry... I didn't mean to do that now....” Frowning, he looks at her, “Is something wrong?” “Um, no.... No... everything's fine.....” Olivia chokes out, feeling terrible. She has to tell him the truth, even at the risk of him leaving her.... “Liv... you know you can tell me anything....” he whispers tenderly. Olivia takes a deep breath, nods, “I know my darling...” she swallows, “But....” Just as she has plucked up the courage to confess it to him, his cell phone buzzes and he reaches for it, frowning. “Ruffilo!” he growls. “Answer it!” nods Olivia, relieved and frustrated at the same time. “Yes?!” grumbles Joakim. “I've got everything. Nobu just handed me Olivia's papers.” Nicholas explains. “Right, where do we meet?” Joakim wants to know immediately. “Wherever you want. But what about Folio?” Nicholas asks. “I'll deal with him before we get out of here!” growls Joakim hatefully. “How are you going to do that?” Nicholas wants to know.

“Let me worry about that!” Joakim grumbles and Olivia turns pale, shakes her head in despair and Joakim takes her in his arms again, pulling her close. “We should talk about this. Really Joakim... a one-man operation can quickly backfire. It could turn into a suicide mission and I think you've had enough of that...” suggests Nicholas. “Discuss... preferably with Doi so that he can kill me.” Joakim grumbles. “Nobu should be there, yes and no, he certainly won't kill you.” Nicholas explains seriously. “I've seen him looking at Olivia, courting her, seeking her closeness.... And he's not a man who admits defeat....” snorts Joakim. “I'd be lying if I said he wasn't...” sighs Nicholas, ”But Nobu's no fool either. He knows he'll never win Olivia over, especially not if he kills you!” “FUCK!” growls Olivia against Joakim's chest, ”If he should dare, try, or even think that, I will kill him!” Joakim laughs softly and kisses Olivia on the temple. “You heard her...” he snorts, ”Alright... let's you and I meet for the first time, talk about how everything's going to go down. What you're up to, Nobu, Nadja, you.... And then we'll see!” “Right, where exactly?” Nicholas wants to know. “I'll send you the coordinates... come alone!” growls Joakim. “When?” Nicholas wants to know. “This afternoon!” explains Joakim and hangs up. “Where do you want to meet him?” Olivia wants to know. “In the forest, at the clearing....” mumbles Joakim, ”I know my way around there, that's my advantage!” “I'm coming with you!” Olivia nods immediately. “No, min Liv, you stay here. You're safe here!” he shakes his head. “FUCK, NO, FORGET IT!” Olivia hisses at him, ”I'm coming with you and out with it!” “Din lilla häxa.... you little witch....!” snorts Joakim, smiling. “I am NOT staying here alone!” she repeats emphatically. “Ok... but you do what I tell you!” replies Joakim seriously. “Yes!” nods Olivia immediately, ”But it's Nicholas.... Do you really think....” “I don't know... actually, I think we can trust him.... But I've become more skeptical....” he shrugs his shoulder. “Yeah!” nods Olivia, before snuggling up to him again, ”Me too.....”

“Karlsson! Good to see you!” smiles Nicholas as he meets Joakim in the clearing. “Hmm, Ruffilo....” nods Joakim, looking around. “We're alone!” confirms Nicholas immediately. “Did anyone else follow you?” Joakim wants to know quietly. “No... I didn't notice anything... you think Folio?” Nicholas voices Joakim's thoughts. “Hmm,” he nods, ”this guy is dangerous! A real problem.” “You had your eye on him too?” Nicholas wants to know. “A bit... at least as far as Olivia is concerned!” growls Joakim. “I see.... Very well...” Nicholas reaches into his coat, causing Joakim to flinch and reach for his gun. Nicholas looks at him seriously, “Just the papers... I'm unarmed, my gun is in the car!” With these words, he slowly opens his coat, holding it open so that Joakim can see for himself that he really is unarmed. “Hmm,” he nods. “I'm on your side, I always have been!” Nicholas explains urgently as he hands Joakim the thick envelope. “I'm just being cautious....” grumbles Joakim and pockets the envelope. “What do you want to do next?” Nicholas then wants to know. “Like I said, kill Folio and then get out of here with Olivia!” growls Joakim. He looks Nicholas straight in the eye, “She's beside herself with fear that the same thing will happen as last time! I won't let that happen and I won't let anyone threaten her either!” “Absolutely!” Nicholas nods grimly, ”But we should take a targeted approach, coordinate, work together!” Joakim laughs bitterly, “I don't trust Doi one bit anymore..…”

“You can trust me, Nadja....” Nicholas explains seriously. Joakim snorts bitterly again, “Of course.... That's why I was alone when I woke up....” “Doi decided that... put Nadja under pressure.... We were completely blindsided by him before Nadja, me, could talk to Olivia. She was full of tranquilizers most of the time... unresponsive... Then your funeral...” swallows Nicholas, ”I'm still so insanely sorry!” “I trusted Nadja....” whispers Joakim harshly. “Nadja loves you... she climbed around in the rubble alone after the explosion, just with Alexei, to find you! She didn't want to believe you were dead. Just like me. We pulled you out of there together.... Joakim, please don't hold such a grudge against Nadja. She would like to talk to you about it!” Nicholas explains seriously. “She could have come with you!” growls Joakim, ”If she really wanted to talk to me!” “She would have, if she hadn't been on medically prescribed bed rest....” growls Nicholas. Joakim shrugs with a questioning look. “Hmm,” Nicholas nods grimly, ”she's expecting our child.... And if she hadn't gotten into trouble that shitty day, we'd all be buried under the rubble and Folio's plan would have worked!” “She's pregnant?!” Joakim drains all the color from his face. “She is... and I beg you, give her another little chance....” asks Nicholas. “Hmm,” Joakim nods, totally surprised by the news. “How is she?” Olivia's voice is suddenly heard behind the two men. They both flinch, startled.

“FUCK, LIV!” Joakim hisses, pulling her to him, ”You should stay away... why do you NEVER listen to what I tell you, fucking woman!” Furious, Olivia glares at him, “It's Nicholas.... Alone... I want to know if everything is okay with Nadja!” “She is, she and the baby are fine!” nods Nicholas. “Good!” Olivia sighs with relief. “We're all at Nobu.....” he looks questioningly at both of them. “Forget it!” hisses Olivia immediately, ”I'd strangle him with my bare hands!” “Understandable!” sighs Nicholas, ‘But what happens now...’ he looks questioningly at Joakim. “A meeting on neutral ground... then we can discuss everything!” he growls and Olivia closes her eyes. Nicholas sees her turn pale and hold on to Joakim, trembling. He puts his hand on her arm reassuringly, “Don't worry, everything will be fine!” “You don't know that!” she swallows, looking pleadingly at Joakim, ”Let's just get out of here!” He looks at her lovingly, “It's not possible yet, min Liv... you know that!” Tears run down her face, “God, I just hate everything right now... this situation, this life, this violence!” Joakim takes her in his arms, “I know, min Liv... but soon it will all be over! Then you'll never have to endure all this again!” Crying, she clings to him and Nicholas presses his jaws together. FUCK, Nobu... if you hadn't wanted her for yourself, it would never have come to this and the two of them would have been happily reunited and could have built a new life, he thinks to himself angrily. Olivia looks out of the window in silence on the way back. Joakim keeps giving her a worried look. When she suddenly flinches and screams “FUCK” out loud, he almost wrenches the steering wheel. “FUCK... What is it?” he wants to know, startled. Olivia looks at him in panic, “Milo!” she gasps, “FUCK.... I forgot my bloody dog!” “What?!” Joakim looks at her in irritation. “Milo... my dog.... He's still with Alma!” gasps Olivia. “I see...” nods Joakim.

Olivia looks at him questioningly, “You're not surprised?” “Hmm,” Joakim shakes his head, ”I've already noticed....” Olivia looks at him for a long time, chewing on her lower lip again. “What is it, min Liv?” Joakim asks her gently. Olivia gathers all her courage, “Joakim... there's something... I have to tell you.....” she whispers barely audibly. His gaze twitches towards her, questioning, irritated. He notices how his heart begins to race, nausea sets in. Olivia's gaze remains lowered, she fiddles with the ties of her hoodie, or rather Joakim's hoodie, which she is wearing. She is nauseous, her heart is racing, she feels dizzy. Pure panic races through her body. “No....” he suddenly growls and Olivia blinks at him in astonishment, ‘No?!’ she repeats incredulously. “No!” Joakim shakes his head sullenly, looking at her, ”No!” Olivia stares at him in disbelief, then the realization hits her like a blow... God, he knows.... Or suspects it.....She turns pale. Joakim reaches for her hand, squeezes it, “No!” he repeats again, this time pleadingly. Olivia clings to his arm, hides her face on his shoulder. Joakim stares at the road ahead with clenched jaws. Olivia has just confirmed what he feared all along... An affair with Doi. He has to summon all his strength to stay calm. His hatred of Doi is boundless right now. And he can't really explain why Liv.... God.... He breathes in and out deeply, hoping that his immense anger will fade. His gaze flickers briefly to Olivia, who is still pressing her face into his shoulder. FUCK..... He knows it now, but to hear her say it, to hear her say those words... that would have been too much for him. That's why he interrupted her, had to interrupt her, because otherwise he wouldn't have known what to do. He is hurt, angry, doesn't know what to do with his feelings. But one feeling covers it all and that's why he knows that he can forgive her, will forgive her. His deep, indispensable love for her. He also realizes that Olivia had to assume he was dead.... Damn... it still hurts a lot.

“I'm so sorry!” Olivia suddenly whispers, choked. “Hmm,” Joakim mumbles, then looks at her, ‘I love you!’ he whispers harshly and Olivia lets out a sob. His hand seeks hers and Olivia immediately wraps her fingers in his, holding him with an iron grip. “This will be over soon..... Then it'll just be you and me...” he whispers hoarsely. Olivia nods tearfully, unable to speak and at the same time infinitely relieved. As Joakim parks the car, he looks at Olivia, who is still clinging to his arm, stroking her hair, “Hmm, min Liv, what are we going to do with your dog?” he asks with a smile. Olivia looks at him with red, teary eyes and Joakim's heart clenches at the sight of her, so he leans over and kisses her tenderly, “Don't be afraid, min Liv, everything's fine!” Olivia wraps her arms around his neck, pulling him to her, “God, I love you so much.... I'm dying at the thought of losing you again.....” “Shh” Joakim reassures her, ”You'll never lose me again, I swear!” Olivia presses herself against him, not wanting to let go. “We should get out!” Joakim murmurs quietly, ”Not that we'll attract any more attention!” “Yes!” Olivia nods and gets out of the car, her limbs trembling. As always, Joakim pulls his hood low over his face and immediately pulls Olivia into his arms, walking with her quickly to the building next to the one with his apartment in it. Olivia looks at him questioningly, Joakim just nods, walks on with her, stops in front of an apartment and unlocks it, pushes Olivia inside and locks the door again, putting the security bolts in front of it.

“Where are we?” Olivia wants to know quietly. “My second home, so to speak... actually, I only leave my actual apartment via it,” Joakim answers and leads Olivia to the bedroom, closes the door there and pulls her to the closet, which is full of weapons and ammunition. Stunned, Olivia looks around, “FUCK.... You weren't idle!” she gulps. “I told you I was leaving NOTHING to chance this time!” he growls softly. The back wall of the closet consists of a strong metal door secured with a code lock, into which Joakim is typing the right combination and Olivia has to swallow, because it's YOUR date... Joakim takes Olivia by the arm and pushes her through, closing the door again behind him. “Why this way now?” she wants to know from him when they are back in his actual apartment. “Because of Ruffilo and I don't know what the Italians are doing right now, even if I don't think they're on to me!” he growls, placing the sniper rifle he's taken with him on his bed. Olivia's gaze fixes on it, “For whom?” she wants to know quietly. “Folio.....” growls Joakim, then looks directly at Olivia, ”And Doi, if he gets in my way, in our way!” Olivia nods slowly, looking away, “So you don't want to work with Nicholas and Noah?” Joakim runs his hand through his hair, “I don't know....” he sighs. “Please don't do anything rash...dangerous...” swallows Olivia anxiously as she places her hand on his chest. Joakim takes her hand in his, “No!” he murmurs softly, “I won't! I swore to you that I wouldn't!”

[kallistcs]

17 for all (or just the main ones) and 9 for paris 👀

Choosing violence, I see. ;) Let's start with nine lol and go from there.

Have you tweaked the character from canon? If so, what did you tweak? Hmm... it feels weird to say "the way he earnestly leans on the divine" both for when it comes to Helen and his faith in that things will turn out right at least initially, war-wise, since we don't have any surviving material that reveals what arguments Paris might have used for himself. But if I have done any big, obvious tweaks, it's probably this.

Like yes, it's at least a little an excuse for him, but also, it has been really interesting to have him earnestly believe that the divine influence and gods involved means he has, if not not done wrong, then done it with more understandable reason, and that they (Troy) will surely be fine because they do still have divine protection. It works out very well together with his general carefree and light personality/attitude.

Are there any ships you can’t stand, why? All righty. I'm going to put this under a cut because it'll get long lol

Ganymede: he doesn't really have any other big ships... I guess the closest would be Hera/Ganymede which I have seen at least once. Aside from how it's definitely been from a "oh, look at them ditch the bad man in their lives and sticking it to him ~together~" or whatever, I definitely... kind of hc Ganymede as way, way too gay for him to ever, ever think of this as a possibility. Never mind that she, you know. Very intently set about destroying his home and family. (Bonus: dark and non-con takes on Zeus/Ganymede. Like. I know why people would interpret it in that way, but I just seriously can't stand it. It's just upsetting, because it goes out of the way to put someone who is completely powerless in a never-ending misery. Aside from that I'm not at all into angst in that manner, part of the point of the fun for me with this ship is that Ganymede, otherwise powerless, gains a whole lot of power exactly because he is loved.)

Paris: ... :') People don't really like Paris enough for there to be any ships to be annoyed by lol Except for Paris being used as an obstacle in Achilles/Patroclus, but he gets that less than Hektor does. Otherwise, the closest would be is that 99% of the Helen/Paris stuff on AO3 is negative in a way that isn't even interesting. To a lesser degree, I guess, Oenone/Paris. But only because of the way it's hammered home he ~abandoned her~ and I'm like. She's a nymph. She doesn't need him in any way a mortal woman might. It's definitely sad to be left by someone you still love, but even if they were, by mortal standards, recognized as married, divorce exists and like. She would have married a teenager while undoubtedly having lived for longer than he has. I don't care about that, but expecting a forever-love from that... (She also definitely is the one with the power between them.)

Adonis: Persephone/Adonis, because I do have some lines in the sand and "woman raising this child as her son and then becoming sexually interested in him" is just... over that line for me lol. Besides, them as purely familial mother&son and Persephone still not wanting to give him up to Aphrodite is much more interesting and fun! (You get fun parallels with Demeter&Persephone that way!)

Angelos: ... girl doesn't have any ships! She doesn't even exist in the same way people have made Makaria exist, fandom-wise! But theoretically, since I hc her as a lesbian, seeing het ships with her would displease me.

Antilochus: ... doesn't really have any ships either. I think what would really piss me off would be making any potential Achilles/Antilochus(/Patroclus) about Patroclus instead (as I just saw a fic imply it was, even when it wasn't even an Achilles/Antilochus ship fic).

Hermaphroditus: The same as above. Buut, honestly Hermaphroditus/Salmacis would just skeeve me out. If one goes with Ovid's version (as my Hermaphroditus does not) she is attempting to assault someone who wants nothing to do with her!

Penthesilea: Oh, this one's easy. Achilles/Penthesilea. Hate any iteration of this, especially when it's not just presented as mutual but her pursuing him. Fuck off about that now. What we have canon-wise is Achilles falling in love/lust with an already-dead woman, no indication of what SHE feels about it. And why would she even be interested in him, anyway??

Teucer: Nothing here, really!

Achilles: ... All right. Achilles/Patroclus, but only because of what fandom and this ship's fans have done with the ship, the characters, and everyone else when it comes to their ship and these characters. It being a juggernaut is just frustrating, but how literally EVERYTHING is made to be about these two, that they are ~the most~ tragic and their story is ~the most~ saddest is like nails on chalk-board. Trojan characters are used as props for this ship, especially Hector who gets pulled in as a handy "third party interested in one of the two", or, in modern AUs, used as a fucking murderer in weird versions of Patroclus' Iliad death.

Dryope and Sinope: Like several others in this list, there's no ships, really. The only thing, I guess, would be for Dryope to be in some sort of tragic love with Apollo, mostly because the version of her story I go with, Apollo and the son she has by him is a byword, at most. It's her nymph companions that are far more important!

[gregoftom]

I love Greg, but if I was Tom I would have teared the bitch to pieces with my teeth if I saw him having a ball of a time with the fascists, after having agreed to go to prison for him. He did the same thing with boar on the floor and the proposal of a business open relationship afterwards. Which in retrospect is very fucking crazy. Dude had to stand in an empty pool and got pissed on, but still didn't talk because of a little 'pls 🥺' only for Greg to break-up and blackmail him. Love them, fr.

JASJAKSJAKJSAS yeah i'll be honest that hurt me too.

it's kind of crazy the way that greg reacted then compared to now and you make a good point - twice tom makes these big proposals of love and twice it's kind of thrown back in his face. this is something he's used to so it makes sense that he goes off and pelts bottles at greg. you can kind of understand tom, LOL.

but he keeps pursuing him! like a lovesick little bitch! it's so..... A. there are probably multiple reasons why greg reacts the way he does to tom at the start; 1. he thinks that's the way this world works having observed the family acting that way [tom even praises him for the blackmail, in the end greg is mostly satisfied with being treated better and respected and being given a sense of belonging. tom knows just how to seduce him right back in] 2. he's not sure, like i was when i first watched boar on the floor, just how long these kinds of gestures could and would last so he doesn't take it quite so seriously hence trying to leave after [also up to that point tom had been uh. pretty mean to him!! and he gravitates towards niceness, it's only then i guess that he managed to pluck up the courage to ask to leave bc tom had this sudden burst of kindness and greg felt like he could leave without getting Killed lol.] 3. he's just being selfish - he takes these gestures and runs with them, esp the getting out of jail free card. he's like, oh thanks! then thoughtlessly celebrates his freedom with a bunch of. dudes. anyway.

BUT THEN LATE S3-4?????!?! WTF HAPPENED HASKJASAS this bitch was like minnesotan dick got me acting unwise. "prove it" shut the hell up slut!!! tom can't even react properly cuz he's like HUH?????? i thought you didn't even like me back!!!!! and it's just so fucking fun bc it pairs up very nicely with how much tom acts like a schoolboy around greg. these mfs be acting like high school idiots and it's so entertaining. it's like i said somewhere else on a post; one of them will take steps forward while the other steps back. the nero sporus scene was greg's "oh!" moment, i think. that was the moment he was like, oh wait, this is for real? bc ever since then he's been glued to tom's side and in the latest s4 episodes been singing his song like hey hi i'm greg of tom, i'm tom's mistress, how is everybody, hi mr president did you know i love that country boy. also i am here. like he mentioned himself second!! not exactly a huge thing like botf, but it's still a gesture! just a shame tom wasn't there to see it; maybe it'll be addressed in some way in the finale or he'll bear witness to greg doing the same thing for him in kind and we'll either get a break up as a response [touche greg] or... not?? which!!!!! A but i'm kind of expecting something within the former range. but i don't think it'll be an easy decision for tom and tbh, i'll take that. it at least means greg is important to him.

something happened between s3 and 4; they became friends, the trust grew, they must have spent a lot of time together. the disgusting brothers [which atp could just be them fucking each other and calling it disgusting bc they're fucking dumb and internally homophobic] bullshit, which sounds like something some idiot frat bros would come up with. "DIGUSTIBUS" GREG U WANNA FUCK THAT SENIOR CITIZEN SO BAD IT MAKES U LOOK STUPID. like. we had tom acting like that, now it's greg's turn. the scales tipped the other way and now tom is like. whadda hell... he likes it for sure we can see it here and there. but he's taking the step back now. i just think that's interesting!

ANYWAY SORRY I MADE THIS INTO A HUGE POST LOL but the point is. i also love them fr and tom should've [redacted] whenever greg was a little unappreciative asshole.

[landofzero-archive]

Rouge&Ruby - Epilogue 2

(Location: Starmony dorm kitchen)

(A few days later.)

Hiyori: Look, look. Our chocolates are still going viral on social media.

They're trying to find a way to preserve them just because they look so wonderful, even though the chocolates taste so good.

Nagisa: ...... The fans do think up curious things. What'll come of preserving them?

Jun: Maybe they just wanna keep them as a reminder~?

I saw a blog post about someone writing their impressions of Chocolat Fes on the very same day.

Seems like that person had wanted to record everything they felt on that day in writing, so they wrote the blog post with all their heart.

Hiyori: That sounds like a sort of preservation too? It's like everyone is carving their feelings for Chocolat Fes into their hearts and it makes me so happy♪

Nagisa: ...... The atmosphere in the venue after Eden's stage had ended was so impactful. How should I describe that atmosphere?

Hiyori: It was as if everyone had entrusted their hearts and bodies to us, like they were in a trance? Even though it was similar to our usual lives, it was a little different……

Jun: It was the kind of atmosphere that can only be felt during Chocolat Fes— So it was something that could only happen on Valentine's day~

That’s definitely the best answer ♪. Don't you think so too, Ibara—

Ibara: ………

Hiyori: What's with that face? We're talking about the Chocolat Fes that happened just as Ibara had envisioned. So, shouldn't you be making a more cheerful expression?

Perhaps I should say; Ibara's the one who should be talking about this, right?

Ibara: —Unlike the rest of you, I’m properly busy using my hands!

I mean, Your Highness was the first person to bring it up, weren’t you? Something or other about wanting everyone in Eden to have a normal Valentine's day experience......

Why am I making homemade chocolates even though Valentine's day is behind us?! I still can’t comprehend it!

Nagisa: …… Isn't it because Hiyori-kun wanted everyone to have a normal Valentine's day experience?

Ibara: Isn't that exactly the same as what I’ve just said? I demand a proper explanation, Jun.

Jun: Eh, so you're taking it out on me. Even though I'm standing right next to you and helping Ibara out seriously.

Ibara: That's to be expected. Lately it seems that His Excellency has taken up an interest in cooking and gained some experience in it, but he doesn't have much experience in making sweets. As for His Highness—

Hiyori: I'll be casting a magic spell so that everyone's chocolates will tu~rn out delicious......♪

Ibara: He's that sort of person. It turned out this way because Jun never lets him help out.

I've been compiling as many detailed recipes as I can find so that I may entrust the work to His Excellency.

Nagisa: ……. I've already mastered mixing ingredients together until there are no lumps.

Ibara: As expected of Your Excellency! It really is so helpful that you are a fast learner! Now I would like you to combine what you've just mixed together!

The next step is to wrap the combined ingredients in a plastic wrap and leave them to chill in the refrigerator! Please work on putting these things together!

Nagisa: ……Mm, I got it♪

Jun: Wow. Unlike Nagi-senpai, who is interested in cooking, it seems like it'll go much faster for me if I cook by myself.

I did think about at least letting him cut up some chocolate bars for me, but the thought of that person holding a knife is really scary......

Hiyori: ?

Jun: ……I mean, it's not like there's a lot of stuff to explain.

I didn't even realise that Ibara got over that wall by himself. When I sucked it up and finally went to consult Ohii-san about it......

Neither Ohiisan nor I knew anything about what a normal Valentine's day is supposed to be like. We realised then that Ibara and Nagi-senpai must be the same way.

Since we were going to make an appearance in Chocolate Fes, the conversation turned to how everyone in Eden not knowing what a normal Valentine's day is supposed to be like is a problem......

That's when the “Normal Valentine's Day Experience Plan” plan started.

Ibara: ...... If it was intended to be for Chocolat Fes, isn't it strange that the plan is being executed after the event had already ended?

Hiyori: That's because we were sooo busy with work for Chocolat Fes. We didn't have any time.

So I'd like you to make extra portions of delicious chocolates to celebrate the success of Chocolat Fes too♪

Ibara: Haah……

Hiyori: By the way, when the chocolates are done, we've planned for us to participate in a simulation of giving and receiving chocolates.

That's why everyone has to put in as much affection as possible while making them......♪

Ibara: Haa~......?

Jun: Ah~ sorry. That's my fault too.

Since I only know about Valentine's day from shojo manga, I made Ohiisan read the manga too.

Seems that he really wants to experience the feeling of wanting to give and receive chocolates and the fluttering feeling that comes with the experience.

Ibara: Do you really think that you're going to get that fluttery feeling by doing an exchange between unit members?

Jun: Maybe you'll at least feel a little warm and fluffy? Who knows?♪

Ibara: —Honestly, it feels like I've gotten myself into a troublesome plan. I'm still quite busy with Chocolat Fes-related work, you know?

Due to the overwhelmingly positive responses and reviews, I have received a variety of requests lately.

Nagisa: …… Then, that means that Ibara's Chocolat Fes is still on-going.

Hiyori: In that case, won't this “Valentine's Day Experience Plan” fit perfectly? Even Eden's Valentine's is still on-going......♪

Ibara: This situation and that situation are not the same.

Jun: …… Yet even though you keep groaning about it, you're still making the most elaborate designs out of all of us~

Nagisa: …… What are you making? Yours look the most delicious, so I'm curious as well.

Ibara: Mine don't just look delicious, they're actually the most delicious of the bunch. I'm even making them look as aesthetically pleasing as possible.

I have no intention of losing even when it comes to making sweets!

I hope you are all looking forward to it......☆

Hiyori: Since you're saying that, I can't wait to see the final product♪

Nagisa: …… Mm. I'm looking forward to eating it.

Jun: Ya know, there isn't supposed to be any element of competition in this Experience Plan......

Ah well, I guess greedily aiming for the top in any situation is just an Ibara thing.

—All right. I'll make my own chocolates pretty and enjoy Eden's Valentine's with the guys~♪

Previous | Directory

[miniscule-meow]

Short: Poptarts

616 Words

~*~*~*~

"Marcus!" Quinn calls out to the rumbling footsteps that are approaching. "Marcus, could you give me a hand please?" She's on top of a box in the pantry, cabinet door open wide. She's certainly come a long way from her distrust and hatred of humans- no not of humans, just of Marcus. It's because he's earned it. She would never say it out loud but she actually really enjoys his company. She's fighting with the box, trying to get it open. "Dude, Ever since you showed me these uh, what did you call them, "popped tarts?" I can't stop thinking about them." Victory, the lid flips open, "I was thinking we could watch that show you were talking a-" she turns and jolts, toppling over the side and into the box, cursing loudly. That's not Marcus. "You're not Marcus." She calls out from inside the box.

"No. I'm not." The other human says evenly, looking at the rustling box of poptarts. It's Zeke, Marcus' roommate. She's only met him once before when she was picking up medicine for Isabell. He was ... Alright.

"Can you... Can you go get him?" She shouts through the cardboard.

"Uh. No. He's gone for today."

"What! When is he coming back?" She's bummed that her afternoon plans are gone now.

"I'm not sure. Probably around six? Six-thirty? Maybe later?"

"Oh... And what time is it now?" She asks.

"Noon." He sighs, likely tired of having this conversation with a box of poptarts.

"Noon...." She echos "That's... Not a number." She doesn't actually know how to tell time.

"It's twelve."

"Oh. So it'll be..." She imagines a clock, counting forward.

"Six and a half hours before he's back, yes." He saves her the trouble of figuring out how clocks work.

"Huh." That's a long time. She looks around at her surroundings inside this box, the walls are too slick for her to climb.

"Do you need help out of the box?" It's like he can read her mind.

"From you?" She asks.

"Who else?" He asks in return. She supposes he has a point, no one else is here.

"I could just wait until-" she begins musing.

"No, that's a really long time to be stuck in a box. Just let me help you, okay?" She rolls her eyes, expecting him to do whatever he wants regardless of her response, but nothing happens. "Okay?" He repeats the question.

"Ugh. Fine. Sure, whatever. Just get it over with." After she agrees, the box starts moving as he pulls it down from the shelf.

"Listen, I'm not going to touch you. I'm just gonna take the poptarts out and then turn the box on its side, so you can get out. Alright?" His gigantic green eyes peer down at her. Despite his words, panic spikes through her at the sight. Being all contained with a giant looming over her is not a position she wants to be in.

"Okay." She grimaces and gives him a big thumbs up. His hand hovers over the opening of the box, before pulling away slightly.

"And hey, seriously, if you stab me with your pin, I'm leaving the box on the counter and walking away."

"Okay! Okay okay okay! Just hurry up already!" She throws her arms up, exasperated.

He does exactly as he said he would. Carefully removing the poptarts, then slowly turning the box on its side. Once she's out of the box he puts the poptarts back in their container, leaving one package out, before putting the box away.

"Did you want a poptart?" Zeke speaks up again, picking up the lone poptart from the counter.

She's quiet for a moment before saying "Yes."

[pavo-ocxllus]

« rewind. / pause. / fast forward. »

the sudden face in the dark (plus the convenient side lights on the car that really helped with the surprise) was luckily, not enough for you to physically show your fear (unluckily enough to make you feel like you're shitting yourself.)

as ITTO's face grew from intimidating to confused (a facial expression that's probably common, considering that he hangs out with people who work at a law firm), you heard HEIZOU attempting to stifle a laugh. 

"pfft-" the grin cracking through his face was enough to give it away. "now this—"

he was cut off by his own giggles.

"—this is something i didn't expect!"

"dang it!" he exclaimed, spontaneously losing his balance and rolling down the hood of the car. a thud and a muffled "ouch" (which wasn't as loud as you thought it would be,) shortly followed after.

distracted, you didn't notice that the maroon-haired attorney had his phone out before you heard the shutter of a phone camera not too far from your ear. 

"what? don't look at me like that," he responded as you shot him a dirty look. "shinobu needs a picture for your i.d. later... it'll do her good to save her the trouble!"

"as if she'll need a picture like that!" you grumbled, your clearly peeved expression going under heizou's radar for a few seconds before he finally noticed it. before he can speak up, you took the joy of cutting him off. 

"is it too much to ask you to take me seriously?!"

heizou, a little surprised that you had gotten through with your outburst, could only mutter before turning back to the wheel of his car, "no... it's not. c'mon, itto. hop in back."

those three words were the conclusion of that discussion.  

the forest's countless trees dispersed until he drove back into the highway nearing the city. you started to feel guilty... even though he didn't seem to be too affected, pouring out some pent up aggression wasn't going to solve a case. besides that, it was a given that heizou was annoying you for this whole car trip, but that didn't warrant a reaction like that.

with the detective making a turn to the same street the legal firm was located, itto started to get fidgety and sink into his seat while your thoughts itched the back of your mind.

"how far is it?? i need to pee...!"

"shouldn't be too far, mr. itto."

your thoughts plagued your mind even further on the impression you've made on heizou. this was your first job in your career! something like that could, as far as you know, mark the end of your time here in the legal field!

you'd try to calm yourself down... surely that heizou wouldn't be that petty.

even then... your personal conscience couldn't let this go.

"...i'm sorry. i was being unprofessional," you finally spoke up after an agonizing time in your thoughts. his green eyes were still on the road, but you can tell heizou paid attention. "i shouldn't have lashed out like that."

"guys..." itto started to trail off, only to be mercilessly ignored by you and heizou.

"no, no... i really don't mind," heizou let a smile stretch his lips a bit, ignoring itto's worried voice. "it's nothing that i can't handle, but you're right. it's not exactly a good look for me as your superior to go behind your back."

"guys."

"hold on itto, we're almost there. as i was saying... i can understand your sentiment. though, if there's something that anyone can say about working with me, i think a certain level of trust is needed—"

"HEIZOU."

"what's the matter, mr. itto?" his mood heavily contrasted itto's increasingly anxious demeanor. if anything, heizou was getting increasingly more relaxed. did that outburst weigh on him as well...?

"it's nothing, uh... can't you make your car windows darker or something??"

"i'm a detective, not a secret agent," he chuckled. "why do you ask-?"

all of a sudden, bright red and blue lights started flashing on heizou's face and the rest of the car—you didn't even register what was going on until heard blaring sirens from behind.

the detective took a few minutes to glance behind him, then turning his attention back on the big man behind him. "okay... i need you to stay calm-"

"i am calm!"

"...right. anyways, there's a tarp on the floor below your feet. i want you to lie down on the floor, take that tarp, and put it on top of you. got that?"

"aye aye!"

"you seem to know what you're doing," you weren't sure if this was the best time for sarcasm, ut you went ahead and gone through with it anyways.

"naturally. it's very common when you start working here."

you didn't question if he was playing along or not. 

he continued to drive along his merry way, though much slower than before. a serious expression was on his face—you didn't know why, but you already miss his usual, more playful attitude. 

for a tense moment, the officers in the car passed by. the ambience inside heizou's car still remained that way. 

you looked to the road ahead of you to distract yourself. from there, you noticed the driver in the car in front of you putting up a hand signal.

they weren't pulling you three over.

in a horrifyingly perfect sync, all of you let out a sigh of relief. 

"it's just a driving violation," you observed after recovering from that possible ordeal.

"alright, itto! you can come out now," heizou said as he stretched a bit. if you didn't know any better, you would've thought he was sitting so swiftly like that for an eternity.

"ugh, i could've died in there!" the long, silver-haired man complained as he emerged clumsily from the tarp. 

just then, an idea popped in your head.

"say... it's itto, right? i believe we haven't officially introduced each other before."

"in the flesh!" it was amusing to see him so sunny in spite of the current bounty on his head based on that close call minutes before.

"good!" you smiled, digging through your bag to find a notepad and something to write with. "i'm [name], by the way, and i just want to ask a few questions, is all."

"of course! arataki 'the great answerer' itto won't let any question fester...! whatever that word means."

"that wasn't one of your best epithets, itto."

"shut up and let me answer their questions!"

"alright, alright," heizou had his hands up, pretending to stand down as he leaned against the car door, clearly interested to see how you're going to handle an interrogation.

 "okay... where were you the night of diluc's crash?"

"classic, though i admit can be overplayed..." you ignored heizou's comments and continued on.

"i was climbing a tree to get this super rare onikabuto—"

"really? i'm somewhat of a onikabuto affieciando myself... what kind is it?"

"hmm... i don't remember what it's called, but it's big and it's like... a darker purple than usual!"

"yeah, i think i know what you mean... do you know what time it was when you left your house?"

"uh... no. the sun was just starting to set, and i know that when the moon was high up in the sky, that there's bound to be those kind of beetles around."

"okay!" you eagerly wrote his paraphrased words down. "you were walking to the street, correct?"

"that's right! though i have been meaning to get a car..."

"was there anybody that you knew that was there?"

"no..." his voice started to hint suspicion. you couldn't blame him—itto definitely hasn't known you for very long... but you were hoping to get another question in before his suspicions peak.

"that's okay! can you tell me about your gang members?"

his eyebrow arched. there we go...

"what are you going to do with that information, hmm?"

"don't worry. this isn't going to go against you."

"that doesn't matter!" he passionately exclaimed in his seat. "i consider their lives more important than my own!"

you doubt that members of the arataki gang had anything to do with itto's case, but you did appreciate his loyalty towards his friends (as naïve and misguided as it is.)

"it's okay, mr. itto," heizou came back into the conversation, calmly assuring him. for a second, you forgot he was even here.

"heizou's right. this is kind of a... a formality," a  white lie couldn't hurt anyone, right? "it's just to get evidence for your case. we know that your friends had nothing to do with this, we just need to prove it. just give me their names and a brief description of what they look like."

"i dunno... how do i know that you aren't gonna rat them out?" itto jabbed an accusing finger in your direction, making you sigh. 

before you could say anything to defend yourself, heizou quickly nestled himself into the crook of your neck, using his mouth to cover his lips as he whispered, "give him a peck on the cheek."

"what-?!"

"uh-uh now, just listen," that compelled you to shut up. you didn't want to make itto more suspicious than he already was. "it works like a charm—never get's over it."

"you're saying that like you know from experience."

once again, he refused to elaborate. instead, he sat back down on his chair, waiting to see your next move. 

you could only sigh as you pushed shinobu's "yeah, an orientation in filing a harassment lawsuit," to the back of your mind. maybe it wouldn't hurt trying.

"please, mr. itto?" you did your best heizou impression, ignoring the way he scrunched his face in the near distance. "for me?"

"not a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaance," the moment you gave him a quick kiss on his cheek, he seemed to be in a state of paralysis for a good few seconds, his eyes twitching and his face somewhat flushed. 

it was then you started to think something genuinely happened, so you started to wave your hand around to get a reaction out of him. 

"itto...? are you there??" your voice gradually got louder and louder, trying to break through his mind and get him to answer your questions. though currently... you're afraid that you broke him instead. "can you please my questions?"

"of course i can!" his exclamation made you jump in your seat. "that what arataki 'the great answerer' itto is best at!!"

"wow, you made him use the same epithet twice in a row... maybe we should get you to work on his cases more often," heizou smirked as you shot him a glare. turning to itto, you let a smile of satisfaction grace your lips.

"okay... can you detail the arataki gang members, please?"

without fail, he listed all of them out one by one as you jotted it down, even including small tidbits on their personality, leading you to decide on some people you should investigate later on—

"oh, there's someone else in the gang, though they're on the tip of my tongue," itto clicked his mouth a bit, trying to put his finger on it. "got it! how could i forget! it's my right-hand man—er, woman."

"really?" you didn't think you'd end up writing another person on the key people list, so you had to scurry and scavenge your bag with something to write with and on. "who would that be...?"

"easy! she works at the same place you work!"

maybe you haven't met her before?

"can i get a name-"

"shinobu, of course!"

if you were drinking something, you definitely would've spit it out by now. naturally, heizou was practically dying in his corner, already parked in front of fontaine legal firm.

"i'm sorry, what—"

"you heard me right!" he proclaimed with the upmost of pride. "she's the proud deputy officer of the arataki gang!"

based on a certain detective's obviously stifled laughter, you could tell that itto wasn't lying. 

"how did you even get her to join your gang??"

"great question," heizou spoke up again, this time not struggling every few seconds to breathe. "even i don't know."

"intuition has its limits?"

"naturally."

"it's a top secret of the arataki gang!" itto puffed out his chest, as if that presented a barrier: an opaque glass screen as to how shinobu joined. whatever—as much as your curiosity grew and grew, it wasn't crucial to the case.

"thank you, itto!" you said, placing your notes back into your bag. 

"don't mention it!" he relaxed on his seat, a wide, toothy grin stretching his face. it swiftly morphed into a frown when a strangely loud growl roared through his stomach as he looked through the side windows. "oh, we're already here? let's go then!"

"agreed," heizou smirked while propping open the car. "i'm starving."

↳ it's time for lunch!

𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐨 𝐟𝐚𝐫? 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐛𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐞! <𝟑

[wysteriaz-blog]

Two Worlds Collided & They Could Never Tear Us Apart

Chapter 7: Mount Natagumo Part 2

The fight on Mount Natagumo continues! Just when it looks like it's the end for you all, two things—or rather people—unexpected make an appearance and save the day!

Or read the series on Ao3 / Wattpad!

▪︎☆°○°☆ Playlist ☆°○°☆▪︎

After defeating the giant monster and taking a moment to breathe, making sure Inosuke was well enough to keep traveling, you all continued to walk further in the forest. You come across a somewhat shallow river and walk along it for a few seconds before you hear the booming sound of thunder, gaining everyone's attention. Your eyes drift upwards expecting to see dark clouds or a hint of rain but the sky was clear.

Tanjiro pauses in his steps. "What was that sound? Did lightning just strike?"

"How should I know?" Inosuke replies, walking closer to the water.

"Well, I'm not smelling any thunderclouds... but that odor got stronger and is messing with my senses again," he says, sniffing lightly and frowning.

He picked up that strange scent again, it was really bothering him and he wanted to find out where exactly it was coming from. He turns to Inosuke, who's getting ready to cross the river by using some boulders that were sticking out of the water.

"Wait, Inosuke!" Tanjiro calls out.

Inosuke stops mid-step, floundering for a moment as he catches his balance with one foot on a rock and the other on the embankment. You snicker at the sight because he's almost doing the splits and has his arms held out funnily.

"What..?!"

"I think we should take this path instead," Tanjiro suggests, pointing in another direction.

"I don't care! Do whatever you want!"

"So.. are you headed back down, then?"

Inosuke pushes backwards and steps fully onto the embankment again, hands on his hips as he turns to Tanjiro. "Back down?"

"Down the mountain..."

"Why would I do that? Just beat it already," he huffs, shooing Tanjiro away.

"Then where are you going? What about all your wounds? I can't just leave you alone..."

"What are you talking about? Don't worry about it, I'm not hurt at all!"

Tanjiro's face screws up. "What? You've got to be kidding, anyone from a mile away could see how bloodied you are—even with the bandages!"

"Quit worrying 'bout me! It takes more than a few measly cuts to take me down!"

"You've lost quite a lot of blood..."

"I'm fine!"

"I think maybe you should leave and take Y/n-san with you, it'll be much safer for you both."

"Quit trying to get me to leave!"

As they continue going back and forth, you wander closer to the water and step onto the boulder Inosuke was previously at. You hop onto another one, slowly going from one to another. There's joy in doing something so simple as leaping from rocks, that you can't help the dumb little grin that appears on your face, as your brain helpfully supplies: 'Hop hop hop!'

You giggle to yourself, feeling a little silly but you don't care, you could honestly use a break from all the anxiety and seriousness.

You aren't too far out, about half way in the middle when you sense something and look up. Your eyes widen when you spot a pale girl—who looked like the boy earlier that floated in the air—and she stares back at you with something akin to curiosity but quickly turns into a frown. Tanjiro and Inosuke take notice of you not being nearby and turn, tensing up as they spot the demon girl as well. Tanjiro's eyes widened. The scent hanging over the mountain blocked him from picking up that a demon was here!

"RRRRAGH! Listen up, you damn demon, I'm gonna tear you to shreds!" Inosuke growls threateningly.

The girl glares, eyes sweeping over everyone before spinning on her heel and running off. "Now, father!"

"Who are you calling father?!" he yells, getting ready to chase after her by hopping onto the same rocks you were on.

Suddenly a big shadow looms overhead and your gaze snaps up to see a giant monster hurtling straight towards you.

"Y/n!!!"

Your body freezes and all you can do is watch as the hulking beast comes down, smashing the ground in front of you, missing you by just a few inches. You're sent flying back from the shockwaves of the attack but Inosuke quickly crosses the river and catches you. He manages to land upright with you in his hold but you're a bit disoriented from spinning in the air so quickly and slip from his hands. Tanjiro is by your side in an instant and helps you up, guiding you to get right behind him. You hold on to the back of his coat, legs feeling like jelly as you try to process what just happened.

"Don't you come near my family!! Stay away from them!" the demon roars.

It punches the boulder you were on and it crumbles into a bunch of pieces. You feel fear slowly start to choke you, its cold claws digging into your chest as it tries to steal your breath away. This monster was bigger than the last one! Besides the enormous size of the thing, it looked normal except for the fact it also had a damn spider's head!! Your fight or flight response is absolutely out of control. Part of you wants to squish the thing like the creepy, disgusting half-bug that it was—completely ignoring the fact it would be impossible—and the other part wants to run away and never look back. Which is the smarter option but your body just won't move.

The demon gets ready to attack again and you let go of Tanjiro and watch as he and Inosuke face it head on. You've seen them battle a monster before but this was bigger and seemed much stronger. You can only hope that they'll defeat this one too. Tanjiro leaps in the air with his blade held over his head, going into a spin before he comes down and tries to slice through its raised arm. His blade only gets halfway through and the demon swings its other arm around to punch him but Inosuke blocks the attack with his serrated blades.

"Its body.. is so.. tough!" Inosuke grits out, as they struggle to cut through its flesh.

It roars and flings them away, going after Tanjiro who lands gracefully on a rock. Inosuke barrels towards the monster thinking it was distracted but it turns around and smashes its fist straight into his chest. He's sent flying back and falls completely in the water. He lays there for a few seconds before bursting up and gurgling from the water in his mouth, leaning over to cough it out.

'Damn it.. all that force with just a single swipe of its arm! I can't beat him in my condition, all this blood loss is making me dizzy...'

Before he can think any more the giant spider demon comes charging at him. Inosuke spins on his heel and starts running but the water is slowing him down. Tanjiro runs along the water's edge and you follow at a safe distance, keeping your eyes on your friends. Your heart feels like it's going to burst as the giant monster gets closer to Inosuke.

"Water Breathing: Second Form—Improved Lateral Water Wheel!"

Tanjiro slices a tree in front of him, causing it to topple over and head straight for the river where Inosuke and the demon are. Inosuke is quick to spot the falling trunk and speeds up as much as he can in order to avoid being crushed by it, the demon wasn't paying attention though and is pushed down into the water. It thrashes around and Tanjiro takes this opportunity to use the final and most powerful form of Water Breathing. He jumps into the water, running towards the demon being held under water by the big tree trunk, leaping at the last second with his blade held high and ready to strike. Right before he is able to attack the demon bursts up from under the trunk and holds it up, swinging it around and smacking Tanjiro midair. The force sends him flying up high through the air and away from the rest of you.

"Kentaro!!"

"Don't die! You guys have to hold on until I make it back," Tanjiro calls out.

You gasp as you watch Tanjiro disappear over the trees before snapping your head back towards Inosuke, who's standing right in front of the giant monster. He kicks water in its face and it roars angrily, wiping it away. Inosuke quickly scrabbles back onto land and you follow him as he darts behind some trees to hide while the demon shakes the remaining water off. He pants, trying to catch his breath and keep quiet but his previous wounds have reopened and are bleeding a lot, leading the demon right to him. It snarls ferociously as it figures out where he's hiding and he freezes up.

'Not.. good..!'

You're dumb—so, so incredibly dumb—but you refuse to let that thing kill your friend!

You jump out of a nearby bush and yell at the monster while waving your arms around, gaining its attention and Inosuke's eyes nearly bulge out of his mask when he sees you. Were you trying to get killed?! The demon growls as it lazily makes its way towards you. You hear the pounding pulse of your heart as you stare at the giant beast, your body shaking as you let it get closer. It speeds up and that's when you turn tail and flee, going as fast as you possibly can. You have to try to lead that thing away from Inosuke and then hopefully lose it and hide. You will your lungs to fill with more air and pump your legs harder as the monster chases after you. Inosuke chokes on his spit trying to yell at you.

What in the hell were you thinking?!

He pushes himself from the tree, staggering slightly as he runs after you and the demon. There's no way in hell he was going to hide away like a little woodland creature, while you take on the demon—how pathetic! He may have lost a lot of blood but he isn't down yet—he can still fight! He picks up the pace and yells wildly as he leaps at the demon, who has its arm raised as it tries reaching for you. Inosuke swings his blade forward and it lands in its arm but it doesn't cut through, so he hits the back of his blade with the other one and uses the force of the hits to try to cut deeper. It works as the demon cries out with its arm falling off and turns to him.

"Alright, I got you now!" Inosuke grunts, kicking the arm away from him. "So, it was as simple as that. If you can't cut something with a sword, all you gotta do is pound on it with another sword! And just my luck, I have the tools for the job! HAHAHAHAAAA!!"

It stares at him before running off and you and Inosuke are taken aback. He sprints after it and you follow behind, struggling to keep up since you used up almost all your energy from running before.

"Are you running away from me?! Hey! Come back here, damn it!"

Inosuke is losing speed and stumbles every now and then, his wounds hindering him and loses sight of the demon. He growls in frustration, stopping in his tracks and uses his spatial awareness again to find the demon. His head shoots up, finding it in a tree.

"There you are! You dung-brained buffoon! Get down here, bastard!"

The demon appears to be trembling but not for the reason Inosuke thinks, as its body starts changing, shedding its skin and it gets bigger. It leaps down, shaking the ground and roars in his face and Inosuke goes blank, his arms falling to his side. He stares hopelessly at the demon as he doesn't see how he can defeat this thing now. It just changed and he could feel even more power coming from it! He was all for getting stronger but this was too much, there was no way he could win now. One punch from it and he'd be pulverized! He was going to die...

Your eyes widen and you scream. "I-INOSUKE!!"

Your scream shatters his thoughts. You sounded utterly terrified, not just for yourself but for him, and Tanjiro's words rang in his ears too. No, he can't die. Not yet. He won't lose—not now—not ever! He raises his fists back up and the demon immediately punches him. He's flung back into a tree but quickly darts away as the demon rushes forward and punches the tree, barely missing him. It was so fast! Inosuke flips in the air behind it and tries slashing the back of its head but it doesn't even make a scratch, instead it breaks his blades.

It whirls around and slams its arm into his body, sending him back into another tree. He falls to the ground with a thud and wheezes, the air knocked out of him. The demon picks him up and holds him up by his head, slowly choking him out. In a last effort, he stabs what's left of his blades into its neck but it unfortunately doesn't do much but make it angrier. It squeezes its hand and starts to crush his skull.

There isn't anything you can do but scream and watch as Inosuke is slowly being crushed to death. Blood seeps from his mask and tears start to burn your eyes, your body falling to the ground, fingers digging into the dirt. This can't be happening! He was going to die! You didn't know if Tanjiro was safe either. Zenitsu should be safe and not on the mountain, but you can't help but fear that something may have happened to him too. And you were certainly going to die next, once the monster killed Inosuke.

No, he was going to die! You were going to see another person—a friend—die a horrible death! Your breathing is short and shallow as you begin to panic, your stomach churning uneasily and making you want to vomit. Everything feels so hot and your head is buzzing, your vision blurry and the edges turning black. You can't breathe. It can't end like this! Please... don't let it end like this!

Whoosh..!

Inosuke falls to the ground as the demon's arm is suddenly sliced off. There's a man standing off to the side and you try to focus your eyes on him as relief floods your system. He was saved... he wasn't going to die. You weren't going to die. The man wears a coat that is half red and the other half is green with an orange pattern. The monster snarls angrily before its arm regenerates and it charges at him. It happens so fast but almost in slow motion, as the man calmly turns and jumps towards it. He lands behind it and the demon freezes in its spot before its body falls into pieces.

Your vision is still spotty and blurry with tears but you saw some of what the man did and it was absolutely amazing! He moved so fast and precisely that he cut the monster in to pieces, in just a matter of seconds. You can't describe the overwhelming mix of emotions you're going through but there's a small smile on your face and you slowly sink to the ground, laying face first in the dirt before promptly passing out.

Inosuke struggles to sit up and his gaze slides to you as you pass out. He tries to get up but can't seem to move, he was totally beat and had no strength left in him. He looks at the man, who looks completely calm and unbothered and stares at him in awe. He was strong, unlike anyone he's ever seen! This guy was on a whole other level. The man deadpans as he takes one look at Inosuke and walks away from him.

"Hold on a second! Fight me, Mr. Mismatched Outfit! You beat that thing and now, right here, I'm gonna beat you," Inosuke yells. "If I can manage that... that'll make me the most.. most powerful of all!"

"I have a better idea. Go train more."

"WHAT'D YOU SAY TO ME?!?!"

Inosuke doesn't even realize he's being tied up with a rope and hung to a tree as he challenges the man. He blinks and makes a strangled sound when he finally notices. What the hell?! How did he do that?! The man ignores him and walks up to you, turning you over on to your back and tilts your face up. You don't look injured, at least not seriously, just a little disheveled. Your hair was messy and dirt sticks to your cheeks.

His face remains blank as he observes you, taking note that you weren't a demon slayer and you didn't appear to be from here either. He continues to ignore Inosuke who hasn't stopped yelling at all and walks away. He had to go somewhere else, as you two would be fine now. He knew there were other demons around that he had to take care of and people to save.

Inosuke huffs and stops thrashing around, exhaustion taking over. "Yeah.. you better.. walk away..."

His head falls to the side as he finally passes out as well.

☽☼☾☽☼☾☽☼☾

Zenitsu's eyes flutter open and he takes a slow ragged breath when a numbing pain washes over him. He can't feel his arms or legs anymore. His eyes keep wanting to close again but he forces them to stay open the best that he can. If Gramps were here, he'd yell at him. Tanjiro would be disappointed, Inosuke would be mad, and you... how would you feel? He isn't too sure but you're all friends now, so maybe you would be sad to see him in such a state. He really wants to take the easy way out right now but he couldn't let you all down—he can't give up! And as if the universe heard his thoughts, a figure gracefully floats down in front of him. It's a woman with dark hair, a big butterfly bow holding it up in the back.

She leans over him, cupping her mouth with one hand. "Hello there," she calls out softly with a small smile, "are you alright?"

He can't speak. He can only manage to make a few groaning sounds, struggling to breathe properly. Her smile doesn't falter even though he doesn't answer and she leans down, pulling out a box and opening it. She picks up a syringe with a clear fluid, flicking it a few times to get rid of the bubble.

"Hmm, good! I can tell you slowed the poison by adjusting your breathing. If you weren't able to do that, you'd be a spider by now. Don't worry, I'm going to inject you with an antidote," she says lightly.

She grabs his arm and finds a suitable spot to place the needle, slowly pushing the plunger to start administering the antidote into his veins. He winces as the strange cool sensation of the antidote courses through him. He hears other voices from below and turns his head to see a group of people freeing the other people trapped in webs. He did it—he didn't give up. His eyes slowly close again and he quickly falls into a deep sleep, knowing he can rest now.

☽☼☾☽☼☾☽☼☾

Tanjiro grits his teeth and braces himself as he plummets down to the ground, far away from his friends. He was going too fast! He needed to use a technique to slow down and soften the impact of landing or else he would get seriously injured.

"Water Breathing... Second Form.. Water Wheel!"

He rolls forward in the air, relieved when the technique mostly works but the landing is still a little rough and he ends up crashing into a tree. He groans as he pushes himself up and hears a girl scream out in pain. He's immediately on high alert and follows the sound of her cries, staying low and hidden as he finds her kneeling on the ground. She looks like one of the demons he saw earlier but her face is covered by her hands as she weeps, blood spilling from between her fingers. His eyes widen when he notices the other demon—the boy—who looks down on her without any emotion. He holds threads in his hands and his gaze subtly moves from the girl to stare right at him, hiding behind a tree.

"What are you looking at? This isn't a play, you know..."

He's appalled and doesn't stop it from showing on his face as he steps out. "Wha—What are you doing? Aren't you two fighting on the same side?"

"The same side? Don't go phrasing it in such an infantile manner," the boy scoffs. "The two of us are family. We're connected by a powerful bond. Regardless of that, this is between me and my sister. If you insist on interfering.. I'll carve you up."

He makes a show of spreading his hands out, the threads glinting dangerously in the moonlight. But Tanjiro isn't deterred by his threat and just scowls.

"You're wrong. Family or comrade, as long as you feel close to one another, that's all that really matters. Saying it's childish if you're not related by blood.. that's not true at all!" He stares back at him with intensity, passion fueling his words as he raises his voice. "Not only that, but those who are strongly connected with each other, give off the scent of trust! But all I'm picking up from you two, is the scent of terror, hatred, and revulsion! That's not something you can call a bond—it's a fake—a forgery!"

The demon's once stoic face changes to one of anger as he turns to him with malice in his eyes. "What did you say? Tell me.. what do you mean? I demand to hear it from you. Come now, explain it to me.."

"Sure, I'd be happy to! What you have isn't a real bond at all!"

The demon moves, threads lashing out towards him. Tanjiro swings his blade up just in time to cut through the threads but one manages to slip by and slash his cheek. He barely noticed, it was hard to detect them.

"Just so you know, I'm not going to kill you in a single strike. Instead, I'll dissect you piece by piece. However, if you take back what you just said to me, I'll make your death mercifully quick."

"I refuse," Tanjiro grits out, standing his ground. "What I said was the unbridled truth—I won't take it back. Not on your life."

He tenses and jumps up as the demon raises his hand and whips out another thread. It cuts into the tree he was just standing by, leaving a horrible mark. He realizes that the stench he's been smelling ever since he entered the mountain was because of this demon. The scent of terror and hatred was so thick before, it was awful but now it was starting to fade and he could detect the threads easier. Good, now he could take him on. He runs forward, leaping into the air to slice at another thread. He gasps sharply when his blade breaks, the thread slashing across his face and he tumbles to the ground.

No way... were these threads really tougher than the demon's body that he couldn't cut through before? He quickly gets up and keeps his eyes on the demon, he can't lose his focus now. Another thread lashes out and he leaps to the side, ducking when it whips back and pushes himself forward. He charges at the demon, if he can't cut the threads then he'll just have to get close and met him head on. But it proves to be difficult when the threads swing around wildly, nearly slicing him. He rolls to the ground to avoid the attacks and pops back up, panting as he and the demon stare each other down, the threads coming to a halt. Tanjiro knows the demon is holding back and yet he's overpowering him...

"What now? Do you still refuse to take back what you said earlier?"

Tanjiro's determined expression remains and the demon's gaze hardens.

"You refuse.. fine, I'll put an end to you now."

The demon raises his hands again and a web of threads come falling down from all around him, they were stretched wide and there were too many of them to dodge. Tanjiro gapes, his body freezing as the webs descend upon him. It couldn't end like this! He had found a member of the Twelve Kizuki and was so close to possibly finding answers of how to turn his little sister back into a human. He wanted to save her. He wanted to save others. But he couldn't fight him alone, he was still too inexperienced and there was nowhere to run. All he could do was watch as the strings descended in slow motion.

'I'm sorry, Nezuko...'

Nezuko...

Nezuko...?

Nezuko...!?

His eyes are wide in disbelief as he stares at the back of her head, her dark locks flowing behind her. Nezuko... was right in front of him and had blocked the oncoming attack, her arms spread out protectively. He doesn't know how or why she was awake after two years of sleeping, but now wasn't the time to question it. He's worried seeing all the deep cuts, blood trickling from her wounds, but he's glad to see her nonetheless. He doesn't want to risk her getting even more injured, so he grabs onto her and carries her over to a safer spot, gently placing her down against the trunk of a tree.

He crouches down to her level, placing his hand on her shoulder and lightly patting her. It was to comfort her, as she was in some pain from the attack but it was also to reassure himself that his little sister was in fact here. He knew that even though she was turned into a demon, she was still alive in a sense, but her being asleep for so long had really started to mess with him. Everyday he'd wake up, hoping to see her awake, smiling, and happy. That maybe this was all just a dream.

But it wasn't and that terrified him. He would have nightmares of her never waking up or that she would actually die and those thoughts would consume him some nights. He had already lost his parents and other siblings, so he couldn't lose her too. That's why he's been training and fighting so hard to find a way to turn her back into a human. That's why his last thought was to apologize to her.. because in the end he couldn't save her either.

But life was funny and cruel, deciding now of all times that she would finally rise from slumber and save him, just when he had lost all hope. He won't lie and say he isn't a little shocked by how she protected him. He's never seen or heard of a person who's been turned into a demon, to not attack people—once turned they were all overcome with bloodlust—just shells of the person they used to be. But here she is, staring at him with a look he instantly recognizes throughout all their years growing up together. In her eyes he can see as clear as day; a mixture of love, trust, admiration, and support. Their family was always close, they had incredibly strong bonds, bonds that were unbreakable even in the face of death.

So, while he is a little shocked, he isn't surprised... because of course sweet, selfless, and strong-willed Nezuko would be the one person to not lose her humanity. Of course she would fight to protect what was important to her. He could cry tears of joy but her face screws up as she grumbles softly, and he notices her left wrist is severely severed, barely hanging on by a few ligaments. His heart sinks seeing her in such pain and instead of tears of joy, tears of sadness prick his eyes. She got hurt protecting him and he feels awful. It wasn't ideal, but her being a demon was all that was keeping him sane right now, as she should be able to heal quickly.

"N-Nezuko, hang in there! You.. protected me, thank you. I'm so sorry, you got hurt because of me!"

The other demon girl had been silently watching her brother and the human fight. She stands and finds her hand clutched against her chest, a strange feeling washing over her.

"The girl emerged from that box and defended him.. but I'm sure she's one of us..."

The boy stares at Tanjiro and Nezuko, pointing a shaky finger in their direction. "Is—Is she.. your sibling?"

"And so what if she is?!" Tanjiro barks back, not sparing him a single glance as he was too focused on holding her wrist together.

He had thought that she would be able to heal quickly, but she wasn't healing very fast, which made him worry a lot. Why wasn't she healing?! He has to protect her now.

"Siblings. Siblings. His sister's been turned into a demon, yet she stays by his side..." he rambles to himself, ignoring the girl by his side. "She risked her own life... to protect him. That is a genuine bond and it'll be mine!"

"R-Rui, hold on a second! Please reconsider, I'm your elder sister.. you can't abandon me!"

"SHUT UP!"

She gasps as she's flung back by a powerful sweep of his webs, slicing her into pieces and falls to the ground. He looks down at her with contempt and Tanjiro listens to them with sadness and anger coursing through him.

"None of you were ever able to fulfill the roles you were assigned. Not once, in your entire life."

Tears threaten to spill from her lash line, her voice wobbling. "Wait.. brother, wasn't I the elder sister that you wanted? Give me another chance!"

"Very well, then. Go kill the humans wandering all over this mountain. If you do that, I'll forgive you for what happened."

"A-Alright..." Her body has mostly healed and she picks up her head. "Yes, I'll do that..." she mumbles, running off into the forest.

"Boy, come on over here..." Rui beckons Tanjiro over.

Tanjiro briefly glances over his shoulder, wondering why the demon—Rui—was being so calm and almost friendly now. He was up to something...

"What your sister did, I found it genuinely moving to behold. I doubt any words exist that describe exactly what I felt." Rui places a hand over his chest, where his heart should be. "However, your fate now is death, a disagreeable conclusion for you no doubt. So, listen close... I'll impart to you how you can escape your fate. It involves your sister. I want you to give her to me. If you do so, then I will spare your life."

Tanjiro's blood runs cold and the hair at the back of his neck raises. "I have no idea what you're talking about.."

"As of today, instead of being your little sister, she's mine."

"You don't actually think I'd ever agree to that, do you?" Tanjiro mutters lowly, hugging Nezuko closer. "First off, Nezuko's not a thing! She has her own will and feelings! There's no way she'll ever be your sister!"

"It's alright, you don't need to worry. I'm stronger than you. I will create a bond with her, one made of terror. She'll know what happens when I'm defied—"

"I'VE HAD ENOUGH OF YOU SPOUTING THIS NONSENSE! USING FEAR TO KEEP SOMEONE SHACKLED TO YOU, ISN'T THE BOND OF A FAMILY! AND UNTIL YOU ARE ABLE TO FIGURE THAT OUT, YOU'LL NEVER GET WHAT IT IS YOU DESIRE!"

"So irritating, would you mind not shouting? It's clear we don't agree."

Tanjiro gives Nezuko one last look before he stands up and shrugs the box off his shoulders, walking out in the open to face Rui with a hardened glare, fists closed tightly by his side. He was willing to fight and do whatever it takes to save her. He'd rather die than let her be taken away.

"I'll never hand Nezuko over to you!"

"Very well, then. I'll just kill you," Rui sighs, sounding almost disappointed.

"Not if I manage to cut off your head first!"

"Now, that's the spirit. I would love to see you try... let's see if you can take down a being like me!"

He grins as he pushes some hair away from his face, revealing his eye that was covered by the strands and has the words 'Lower Five' inscribed. Tanjiro had already thought of him to be one of the Twelve Kizuki and it looks like he was correct. He holds his broken blade out, tightening his grip on the hilt as he and Rui face each other once again. It wouldn't be easy to cut his threads, so what would he do if his neck was even tougher? His sword was broken, so he has to think of some way to defeat him.

"That steely look in your eyes, I don't like it. What are you plotting? Don't tell me that you think you'll be able to defeat me!" Rui snarls, quickly swinging his hand out.

Threads shoot out but they don't go for Tanjiro and wrap around him, latching onto Nezuko and yanking her away. Tanjiro watches wide-eyed as she's pulled straight into Rui's arms, a vein popping from his forehead. Rui holds her against him, an arm slung around her neck to keep her in place and holds his other hand out with the threads.

"It's settled. I'll be taking her..."

"LET HER GO!!"

Tanjiro launches himself forward as Nezuko struggles against him, growling as she pries at his arm. Her sharp nails elongate and she slashes his face, distracting him enough so he messes up when flinging his threads out to try and stop Tanjiro. It helps give him that split second he needed to dodge the attack, flipping backwards and landing safely. He looks back up to find Nezuko missing from Rui's side, his face contorting in a mix of emotions. Big droplets of blood fall down and splash right in front of him and his gaze shoots up to find her being held up in the air by threads, dangling upside down. Blood pours down from her wounds as the threads that hold her in place cut into her flesh.

"NEZUKO!!!"

"Quiet down, this isn't enough to kill her—she's a demon. But it does appear I'll have to teach her a lesson. I'm going to let her bleed for a while. If she won't learn to be obedient, I'll just leave her like that until daybreak. And then let her burn..."

Tanjiro is furious, yelling from the top of lungs as he charges at him. "I WON'T ALLOW IT! LET HER GOOOOO!!"

He tries to get close but Rui sends more threads out and they whip across his body, stopping him and he tumbles to the ground. He slowly pushes himself up to his hands and Rui walks up to him, kicking him square in the chest, which sends him flying back into a bush. Tanjiro coughs, blood spilling from the corners of his mouth as he tries to catch his breath but Rui comes over, striking him with a powerful backhand. Tanjiro stumbles away, managing to stay upright but he slightly trembles as he pants and coughs up more blood.

"I may be mistaken here... but you think if you get close enough to me, you can chop my head off, don't you?" He slowly steps closer, an amused glint in his eye as he spreads his arms out and makes himself vulnerable. "Well then, here. Give it a shot!"

Tanjiro doesn't hesitate to swing at him but Rui dodges the broken blade and punches him, making Tanjiro spin from the force of it, but Tanjiro uses that momentum to spin back around and land his blade against Rui's neck. He grunts, gritting his teeth as his hand trembles, struggling to cut through his neck. He's using all the strength he has at the moment but it won't go through.

"Didn't I tell you? You have no chance against me." Rui kicks Tanjiro in the gut and sends him flying back. "If you can't even cut those threads, then you'll never be able to cut my neck."

Nezuko watches her brother being beaten and thrashes against the threads angrily, struggling to free herself. Tanjiro is miraculously still conscious but he doubts if he'll be able to win this fight, he's already taken a lot of blows, his blade was broken, and he couldn't cut through his neck—let alone the threads! This was the might of one of the Twelve Kizuki... the power of a demon closely related to Muzan Kibutsuji.

Rui turns to Nezuko as she wiggles around, grunting in frustration. "You're noisy... if you don't quiet down—"

He tightens the threads around her and Nezuko shrieks in pain, more blood gushing out and she passes out. Rui watches her curiously, tilting his head. He could sense her aura was different from other demons.

"How interesting..."

"STOP THAT!!"

Tanjiro can feel rage simmering below the surface, begging to lash out, but he has to calm himself down and not play into Rui's hands. He can't get emotional. He has to concentrate. Control his breathing. Unleash the most precise final form—total concentration! His breaths even out and he stands, getting into a stance before kicking off. Rui turns back to him and whips out more threads, expecting to finally take him down but Tanjiro brings his broken blade up and cuts right through a thread, continuing to barrel straight for him. Rui's eyes widen as Tanjiro slices through more threads, making his way closer with every swoop.

"You don't think these threads are at maximum strength, do you?!" he seethes, becoming a little worried.

He crosses his hands and the threads he makes glow red with power. He makes a cage out of them, surrounding Tanjiro and brings his hand back to pull the strings taut so as to cut him into pieces. Everything moves in slow motion as Tanjiro's life seems to flash before his eyes, distant memories fading in and then there's nothing but white, until he sees his father's face. He smiles at him and the vision wavers, a new one taking it's place, showing him dancing in the cold snow. It was his father's Kagura dance. He remembers being fascinated by it at a younger age, watching him with his mother and siblings. His father was a sickly man but he would dance and dance, his movements were fluid and strong as he held his head high, never faltering in his steps.

He remembers he had later been told by his father that there was a breathing technique, one that would prevent someone from ever exhausting themselves if they could master it. He told him that if he could find the correct way to breathe, he too could dance forever, and that even the cold wouldn't bother him. The ceremonial dance and the pair of earrings his father had always worn, had been passed down to him. They served as reminders of where he came from, who he was, and what was most important to him—of those that he held close to his heart and loved.

His vision comes back and he furrows his brows with a new energy bursting from within, inhaling sharply and spinning in the air as the dance manifests into a technique.

"Hinokami Kagura Dance!"

He cuts through the threads and continues running, yelling with his entire chest as he pours everything he's got—all of his strength, anger, sadness, and love—in to trying to defeat him and protect Nezuko. Closer and closer, he cuts through every single thread until he finally closes the distance and swings, his broken blade arcing towards his enemy. Rui jumps back and dodges the oncoming attacks but stumbles and is barely keeping Tanjiro at bay. Tanjiro pays no mind to the few stray threads that whip at him, he was going to take him down now, even if it meant getting slashed in the process! If it was the last thing he'd ever do, he would save Nezuko!

"Nezuko. Nezuko. Wake up, Nezuko..."

A voice calls out, softly ringing in her ears but her eyes remain closed, even as a gentle touch caresses her face. The voice—her mother—sounds sad, afraid, but still so very warm, just like her touch. She misses her... she misses her father... she misses her siblings. But Tanjiro, he was still here. She could feel it. But there was a darkness inside her that craved for something, something that the light inside her knew was wrong, and she fought against it. She was.. different now.

She doesn't remember much but she knows something happened and it was the reason why her closed eyes were stinging with unshed tears. The reason why her heart aches with a devastating sadness and unbridled rage. Her family... they had all been taken from her. But Tanjiro was still here and her mother was with her in spirit, urging her to wake up, desperation lacing her voice.

"You need to save your brother. You're capable of doing so, I know you are. Nezuko, help him... your brother will be killed if you don't!"

Nezuko's eyes snap open, growling as her hand reaches out and twists, activating her power with a clench of her first.

'Blood Demon Art—Exploding Blood!'

The threads burst into flames and the fire spreads rapidly, heading straight for Rui and his eyes bulge when he sees every single thread burn away, giving Tanjiro the perfect opportunity to swing his blade into his neck. Nezuko roars as Tanjiro yells passionately, telling Rui that their bond was not one that could be severed by anyone, and this time his blade cuts straight through his neck. Rui's head falls to the ground with a thud and Tanjiro collapses to his knees, Nezuko falling down in front of him and he reaches out for her, his vision blurry.

"N-Nezuko," he groans in pain but a small smile spreads on his face, his words trailing off as he succumbs to exhaustion, "we did it.. we won..."

But Rui is still alive and gets ready to attack them again while they're down. Tanjiro can't move and he's devastated to know that they didn't actually win. Why didn't he die? He had thought he sliced his neck! Was this the end? Was all of that for nothing?! But then a figure comes from out of nowhere and silently dispatches the demon and Tanjiro passes out just as the man walks up to him.