#but so won't the views in front of which i can park myself at will

[urban-hart]

found new place to rent. by meself. am relieved. am happy. am tiord.

i have to contact. someone. about government student financial aid's incompetence in citizenship verification. like, what more do you want from me. i've been a citizen for practically my whole life. ugh.

i will take an English assessment tomorrow morning since it's just online.

i have to go somewhere for da maths, i think. arrange an appointment or something. i don't know.

guys, i'm doing it. i'm adulting

[dre6ming]

The delicate beginning rush

Chapter VII ~ mixed signals

Masterlist <all chapters here>

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Pairing: Austin Butler x singer/actress fem reader

Warning: cursing, fluff, crying … idk that all I think

Plot: after meeting Joshua there’s a part of you that feels like he would be a wiser decision of a boyfriend, but that doesn’t mean you can just wash Austin away. FaceTime calls become your thing with him and all the mixed signals have you twisted.

Word count: ~6900

Disclaimer: everything is fake !!!

"Does this look ok?" I ask twirling around in front of my phone for Timmy to see. I'm in the bathroom of the studio cursing myself for not thinking to bring a backup outfit when I left the house, once again in sweats. "Sweet dumpling you're going with him on walk in the park, sweats is the best thing to wear." He says. "Ugh of course you think so, you're a boy." I sigh exasperated, throwing my hands up in the air.

Timothee giggles at my worked up stance, which only makes me more angry. "Ok that's it, I'm hanging up and calling Roxi." Before he gets to defend himself, I end the call and dial Roxanne on FaceTime. The only reason why she wasn't my first option to call, was because she got back very late last night and I wanted to let her sleep as much as possible. It takes a minute for her to pick up, but she does eventually do it. "Ugh what?" I wince a the fact that I woke her up from her sleep, beating myself up for being selfish here. "Need help, do I look ok to go out with Joshua?" I ask.

In a second, she sits up on the bed, trying to fix herself up a bit and concentrate on the matter at hand. Giving me a good look over, I can see the wheels in her head turning. "Yeah, it's a park date and you look extremely hot, just let your hair down." Taking the hair elastic out of my messy bun, I let my hair fall on my back, brushing my hands through it to detangled some of the knots. "Perfect!"

"Of I don't know what I'm doing Roxanne, last night all I could think of was Austin. He called me" clutching my head in my hands I rest my elbows against the bathroom sink. "He called?" She seems just as surprised as was when it happened. "Yeah" I nod. "He did and we cooked together, then he asked me to come over at his house in LA, so he can make me home made pizza, then we said good night, except he said: sweet dreams, my darling. My darling? What the fuck?" I vomit words at a fast speed, my voice raising a bit as I get more frustrated. "Woah (y/n) breathe, you're turning purple."

"I'm being serious Roxanne, what am I to understand from all of this? He has a girlfriend" this whole situation is so twisted and confusing, I've been dreaming all night of him, but here I am now, stressing for a date with another guy, because I have to get Austin out of my system. "I know and I am taking you serious. I don't know what to say, I think he likes you. Plus you said he told you the relationship was just PR, so maybe it doesn't count to him or Kaia." I see Roxanne's point of view, but still it's not that easy.

"Maybe, but the public eye still counts them as a couple and I don't want me and Austin to be dragged any more than we already have." She sighs, bringing the covers up to her nose, as I chew on my lips waiting for her input. "Well why don't you just see where this thing with Joshua goes and then you can talk to Austin-"

"Talk to him? Do you actually think I have the courage to do that?" I yell at her, cause she must be making fun of me. No way am I going to embarrass myself and tell him about my crush. "Ok but won't he know  'dandelions' is about him?" Biting at the inside of my cheek, I play with the ends of my sleeves. I have thought about it, of course I have, but I tried to make the song as vague as possible. "It's too vague for him to figure out."

"Are you sure? I mean..." I shake my head, not wanting to go over that hill just yet. "But you want to know what's the craziest thing?" I ask, picking her interest back up. "What?" Roxanne asks excitedly. "When we were talking at one point he saw the bracelet on my writs and he seemed jealous?!" I'm still not sure that's what he saw or if that was what his reaction meant, but it's the best I could come up with, to explain his behavior. Roxi gasps, covering her mouth with the blankets. "There you have it, he for sure likes you."

"But what if it was all in my head?" She's quick to shake her head. "Noooo first of all, he called you, then made sure you ate, then he invited you over, not to say he called you 'my darling'" she swoons on camera, making me giggle. But the nagging feeling in my stomach stays. "I have to go, I'm going to be late. Love you" I wave "Good luck!" She says throwing the phone somewhere on the bed before I end the call, giving me a good view of the ceiling.

Walking out of the bathroom still laughing, I hug Jack on my way out. Matt is already waiting for me in the car, driving in the direction of Central Park, as soon as I get in. Today is a beautiful day, the temperature is high enough that you don't need a jacket to keep warm, my favorite kind of weather. I put the window down and take big gulps of air, it's very rare that the air smells clean enough for it to be enjoyable, so I'm profiting of it now.

Central Park looks beautiful this time of year, it's still too early into spring for any over the top nature growth, but it's late enough in the winter time, that the grass is a dark fresh green. Joshua is waiting for me right where I told him to, wearing a grey sweater and black shorts, which seems a bit too little clothing for the day, but whatever if he's not cold who am I to tell him what to wear. A smile paints itself on his lips when he sees me and I can't help but reciprocate.

"Hello." He says going in for a hug which I welcome putting my arms around him, hiding my face in the crook of his neck enjoying his minty scent. "Hi!" I whisper back and Joshua laughs a bit, making me relax in his embrace. "You look gorgeous!" He says, after letting me go and roaming his eyes over my frame. "Thank you!" I try to play it cool, but I know I'm blushing a deep red shade.

"After you!" He says, motioning for me to walk forward, imitating a valet and rotating his hand dramatically, which causes me to smile. I start walking and he follows me close, only a few inches away from me, our dangling hands barely touching. There's this irresistible current between our hands and when his pinky finger brushes the back of my hand, I pull it away, bringing it to my chest. "Sorry." He says looking forward and licking his lips. With my heart beating out of my chest, I decide to just take a leap of faith and I slowly reach my hand out to tangle my fingers with his. We lock eyes and in that moment this doesn't feel right nor wrong, it just feels numb, a burning question being branded into my brain: how would it feel to hold hands with Austin?

Shaking my head, I blink looking forward, I can't think like that, I'm with Joshua right now and Austin has a girlfriend. I laugh at myself a bit, I keep telling myself the only thing stopping me from fully accepting my crush is Kaia, but I know it's in fact just my own stupid insecurities. "What's your favorite color?" Joshua asks, breaking the silence. "Hm red? Or purple. Yours?" He smiles at me, before answering. "Light blue, just like the sky right now." As if on queue, we look up at the clear sky. The same shade of blue as Austin's eyes, I notice, so I have to force my eyes away. "It's a good choice for a favorite color." I mumble as I drag him over to the grass, before sitting down. Joshua sits next to me, playing with the hem of his sweater. This meet cute feels so different form the previous one, it's like there's this awkwardness between us.

"Did I do something?" I ask out of fear, that I might be the culprit in this. He's quick to deny with a shake of his head. "No, I'm just, well I don't mean to pry, but that article." I suck in a breath, praying to god his next words will be anything but the judgement I expect, because I don't think I can hold it together if he's about to say something mean. "It's nothing, I know how the press works" Joshua says, holding his hands up. "I was just wondering, are you and Austin?" He doesn't dare to actually speak the words, leaving the question hanging. I brush a nervous hand through my hair, picking my next words carefully, licking my lips, before speaking. "We're friends, just friends." Why did that hurt? It's the truth, so why did it hurt? Oh, yeah, because I like him and I want him to be more.

"Oh, ok, cool cool" Joshua says, a blush creeping onto his cheeks. And then there's silence again, awkward silence. I absentmindedly pick at the grass, counting in my head up to 100, to occupy my mind, because if I let it sail free it will go back to Austin. "So I saw that you were in the studio yesterday, how's it working?" He asks. "It's good, it feels amazing to give my words meaning through music. I used to write them just as poems and now I have to make up melodies for them, which only adds to the power of what I'm saying."

"So if you were to choose, lyrics over melody or melody over lyrics?" This catches me a little off guard and it takes a second to come up with an answer. "Lyrics." I say confident in my choice. "Why?" Joshua pushes. "I love words and yeah I guess, as I said, melody adds some power to them, but I'm the kind of person that listens more to the lyrics than the actual melody." He listens to me closely, while his eyes search for mine. When we lock eyes there's this connection between us. It takes my breath away and I fiddle around with the bracelet on my wrist, which causes Joshua to look down. He smiles, moving one hand over to my wrist. He twists the bracelet around so that the purple gem faces him and he brushes his fingers over it. "You like it?"

His eyes lock back onto mine, glimmering with excitement. "I do." Pleased with my answers he brings my wrist up to his lips, kissing it tenderly, while holding eye contact. My cheeks feel hot and I can't help the way my heart skips a beat. "I'm glad" he says.

I clear my throat and take my hand out of his, ignoring the voice in the back of my head saying not to. "Do you want to play a game?" I suggest, even though I have no game in mind that we could play to make time pass. "Sure" he says, leaning back on his hands. "What game?"

"I haven't thought that far in advance" I confess laughing. "Truth or dare?" He suggests and even though that game always felt kind of like a trap, I agree. "Ok ladies first."

"Truth or dare?" I ask and Joshua replies instantly. "Truth" tapping my pointer against my chin, I think of something to ask, if it were me and Austin playing this game I'd have so much to ask, but with Joshua there's not much I'd like to know. Taking a cold shower mentally, I focus back on the task. "Favorite flavor of ice cream" he giggles before answering. "The classic chocolate" of course he'd like chocolate.

"Truth or dare?" What if I wanted to be a little risky? "Dare" ok I might regret that later, but the adrenaline I feel, is a plus for now, so I'll focus on that. "Do a hand stand" I laugh thinking he's joking, but I can see that he's very much not. "Ok but I'll need some help"

"Sure" we both stand up, shaking some of the dust off of our clothes. Sighing I bend over and prompt my palms in the grass, spreading my fingers. "Ok I'll hold your legs. On one" I breathe in "two" he puts a hand on the small of my back and the other before my thighs. "Three" I halt my legs up in the air and he helps me up, holding me by the waist. My top is sliding down, but he's quick to catch it and hold it up so that I'm not exposed. "I can't believe I'm doing this" I say surprised by the fact that actually managed to do it.

Joshua chuckles asking if I'm ready to come back down. "Yeah, I'm ready" I say and he supports me as I put my feet back down. Standing up straight feels weird with all the blood that had rushed to my head, but he catches me before I fall, holding me close to him. Our faces are inches apart, our breaths merging into one. I don't know who moved first, but his lips brush against mine and when I don't pull back he tightens his arms around my waist, deepening the kiss. Wrapping my arms around his neck, I let myself be engulfed by the kiss, his warm lips dancing in sink with mine. I feel butterflies in my stomach and dizzy in the head.

"Wow" he says pulling back a bit, holding his forehead glued to mine, both breathing heavy from the previous lack of air. I feel like Joshua is expecting me to say something, but I don't know what I should say. The kiss felt nice, but it felt no more passionate than the ones I had to do on screen for a script, it lacked something. It lacked someone. Or maybe I'm just self sabotaging.

Screwing my eyes shut, I take a deep breath. "I think we should probably stay friends" I say, taking a step back, working on unclasping the bracelet for around my wrist. I see the hurt in Joshua's eyes, but I know that if I don't do this now, we'll get too far down a road that will lead nowhere. "I'm sorry if I moved too fast, I should've-" he says and pain shoots through my chest. "N-no it's n-not I'm n-not. Please just - I'm sorry. I just don't think I feel like that for you." Lie, that's a lie, but I won't admit that now, I'm not yet ready to, tears sting my eyes and the breath gets caught in my chest.

"Please understand, I don't want to hurt you, I think we're better off as friends, I understand if you don't want me to still do the music video with you" closing his eyes, Joshua shakes his head. "No I still want you to do it, if you want to and I guess I appreciate you being honest" he takes my hands, which are still struggling to get the bracelet undone. "But please keep the bracelet, it's a gift." I hate the glossy look in his eyes, knowing I'm responsible for the tears he tries to hold back.

"O- ok, um I should go" I say dropping his hands and walking away. I try to keep my footing normal, but all I want is to get in the car and get home. I find Matt waiting by the car on a park bench and without a word I get in. "Everything ok miss?" He asks concerned, turning to look at me from his drivers seat. My tears start flowing and through the thick curtain of salty water pouring from my eyes I can see he's trying to stay calm, but half failing. "Y-yes I , I'm - he's"

"Did he try something?" Matt says through gritted teeth and I shake my head, wiping away at my tears. "No I just, I think I was mean? I said I just want to be friends"

"And did he push for more?" He asks, giving me a good look over. "No, but I just feel bad for rejecting him." Finally Matt relaxes in his seat, turning back to face the wheel. He turns on the radio and we drive away, no more questions asked.

Getting home, feels nice, my apartment is warm and as soon as I fall on the couch, my two cats come to cuddle with me. The mistake I make is checking my phone, only to see that, me and Joshua were photographed by the paparazzi. They caught us kissing and him helping me do the hand stand. I resist the urge to look at the comments and instead I open FaceTime.

I don't know what goes through my head when my finger rests on top of Austin's name or what ungodly force pushes my finger to actually tap the name and make the call. I panic and I try to hang up, but Austin is way too fast answering, before my better judgment wins. "Hey ther- (y/n)? What's wrong? Were you crying?" Austin asks concerned and I look at my face in the corner of the screen, my eyes are red and puffy and my cheeks are wet with tears. "No" using the back of my hand I wipe at my face, trying to rid of the evidence that I have been bawling my eyes out.

"Please tell me what's wrong" he pleads. "I kissed Joshua and then I told him I want to be just friends" Austin sighs, brushing a hand through his hair. "And did he not take it well?"

"No he was sweet about it, I just feel bad" he smiles at me, which kind of makes me feel better, I don't know why, but it does. "That's sweet of you, but you shouldn't be crying, unless of course you didn't mean to say it." There a twinkle in his eye, almost like he's hoping that's not the case. "No, no I meant it. I just, it didn't feel right, it felt scripted, in a way." I say, trying to explain why I did what I did. "Well there's nothing wrong with the fact that you didn't reciprocate his feelings." Austin says licking his lips.

My eyes get fixated on the pink plush skin of his lips and suddenly I realize I had no business calling him, we are friends I guess, but this is something I should talk about with Timmy and Roxanne, not Austin, we're not that close yet, we barely know each other. "I'm sorry, you're probably busy and I don't even know why I called you." I try to excuse myself, making him laugh. Oh gosh how good his laugh sounds, it's like the sound rings through my bones, turning them to jelly. "No worries, darling, I don't mind"

'Darling', there it is again, that unholy pet name. My tears are long forgotten, but my cheeks keep burning hot, blushing at his every action. "You look so pretty when you blush" Austin mumbles under his breath, almost like he's hoping I can't hear him. But I did hear him, loud and clear, blushing harder and sucking my lips, to stop the whimper resting on my tongue to fall. Austin is now just a frozen picture on my screen, eyes wide open and mouth agape. No one dares to speak, so there's just thick silence filling the air.

"I should go, I have to go over at Taylor's house." I mumble looking away from the screen and picking myself up from the couch. "Sure, yeah, talk soon, (y/n)" I offer him a shy smile, before ending the call. Trying to grip myself back to earth I count my breaths, while I get ready. Putting on a simple dark blue, long sleeve velvet dress and black tights, I braid my hair and apply some perfume. Checking myself out it the mirror, I conclude that I look pretty.

"Come on Matt, I don't want to be late for dinner." I say running out of my bedroom, finding Matt waiting by the elevator already. He smiles at me. "You look very beautiful miss." He says, holding a hand out, making sure the doors to the elevator don't close as I walk in. "Thank you" smiling I lean back against the wall and enjoying the short ride, applying some lip balm before walking out. Slipping into the back seat of the black SUV, I pull my phone out to tell Taylor I'll be there in 20 minutes. The New York dawn is a sight to remember, since it's still cold out, there's steam coming out of the pipeline underneath the city, the steam getting colored by the slowly setting sun. Shades of blue, pink, red and yellow, creating this beautiful painting, of ethereal scenery.

"Text me 20 minutes before you need me to come get you miss, have a good night!" Matt says, as I slide out of the car, saying goodbye to him. I can't wait to see Taylor and talk to her about this whole situation I have on my hands. We speak often, but it's been like a good week since we got the chance to really talk, she was over in London and I was busy, but as of next week I'm supposed to be back in the studio with her as she begins the recording of her new album.

I say 'Hello' to the security and make my way to her door, which she opens expectedly, coming my way with her arms stretched out for a hug. "Ugh I missed you terribly, (y/n)!" Taylor says, welcoming me in. "Hi Joe!" I say and he comes over to share a hug as well. "And hello to you too Benjamin." I lift up the fluffy cat and it starts purring. "Nice to see you, (y/n)" Joe says. Just like Taylor, he is a very nice person and despite the age gap between me and them, we all find each other's company entertaining, so dinner nights like this are an often occurrence, sometimes some more of our friends join, but tonight is just us three.

We make our way into their living room and sit down on the couch. "Do you want wine?" Joe asks going to the kitchen to grab glasses, I know I'm not 21, but in Europe I'm have the appropriate age to drink, so stop judging. "Yes, please." As he disappears into the kitchen, Taylor wiggles her brows at me, before speaking. "So when were you going to tell me you have a boyfriend?" She asks squealing. I blush, trying to hide my face behind Benjamin's furry head. "I don't, he asked me to be in a music video for him and I agreed, then he asked me for lunch and I went, but then we went on that stupid walk and he kissed me and I said I want to be just friends." I vent to her.

"And did you mean it?" I shrug my shoulders, not really knowing the answer, at the time when the kiss happened I was so sure, but the more I think about it the more I doubt it. "Earlier I did, but now?" Sighing I take the glass from Joe, thanking him, before he goes back to the kitchen. He's respectful and knows when some discussions are just for me and Taylor, so he busies himself with taking care of dinner, letting us girls to our own devices. "Ok, but you wrote a song?" I lift a brow at her, not really surprised that Jack told her about 'Dandelions'. She blushes sipping from the glass. "I did, but it's not about Joshua" that's when I get to read a thousand emotions over her face, worry, confusion, curiosity, excitement, all at once. "It's about-" I move my eyes to the side not daring to say his name. I haven't actually admitted Austin is the object of my inspiration for writing 'Dandelions'. Sure Roxi knew about it, but she said it and I just nodded, I didn't actually get to say the words out loud.

"(Y/n)" Taylor says setting her glass down, taking the one I have in hand and doing the same. She then cups both my hands in hers, smoothing the skin over my knuckles. "I saw some of the pictures and you know I hate the media, more then some and I know better then anyone how vicious and untrustworthy it is, but no matter I feel like it's my responsibility as your friend to tell you this. I've been 19 and I've met 30 year olds and they are charming and enticing, but they have no business dating someone ten years younger." I sigh deeply, knowing she is right, but then there's this loud voice in the back of my head saying "he's different", but how could I know, when I just met him. "I know, I just, the song came to me and I couldn't stop writing. Taylor I don't understand myself" before I even know it I'm crying again, my mind is too confused over what's happening. All the mixed signals and all my emotions have been toying with me.

Taylor brings me closer to her, hugging me and letting me cry on her shoulder. "I don't know what to tell you, other then it's so easy to get swept away." She soothes me. "But w-what if-f h-he nice, what i-if he likes me?" She sighs, petting my back as I shake in her arms. "And then there was that stupid article, they called me a serial dater, saying I'm going for another girl's boyfriend, bringing my parents into this." I feel Taylor squeeze me harder, trying to calm me down a bit. I look up from her shoulder as I hear the floor creak and see Joe come in, with a sympathetic smile, handing me a tissue as he sits in a chair across from us. "If I may be allowed to say something" he starts in his thick British accent. "I don't think you should be reading anything the media writes, especially now when you're growing. Developing feelings for people is sacred and it's no one's business. We humans are very susceptible, so reading stuff like that won't clear things. Maybe just let yourself be a lil more free, live in your narrative, not theirs" he's right, reading shit on the internet has often influenced my everyday life and my chronic fear of feelings only got lit up by that article. "(Y/n) do you think you rejected Joshua just because of that piece of crap?" Taylor asks.

I give it a thought, as it seems like something I would do. It did seem a little strange that after all the attraction I felt towards Joshua, I just didn't feel it anymore. "I don't know. Thank you Joe, for the kind words" I say directing a smile his way. "And that doesn't make things with Austin any easier. I like him, I'm sure of it, I can't stop thinking about him. I don't feel like that for Joshua, I mean yeah I guess I find him attractive and such, but I don't have him on my mind all the time like I do..." Taylor's eyes look sad hearing me talk, I guess that for her it feels like looking at a young version of herself doing the same mistakes again. "I can't tell you how to go about it, (y/n). I haven't met Austin, maybe he is a nice guy, just because I've dated douchesbags, doesn't make every 30 year old, one." I can tell that she only half means what she's saying, but I can see she feels for me and understands, probably better than anyone. "Maybe give Joshua another shot? Best romances start with being friends first. You're still young and it's hard to distinguish between lust and love" Taylor says. "Plus dating is about finding what you like, sometimes it take a couple of tries to get it right, so there's no need for pressure of commitment." Joe adds, sharing a knowing look with Taylor. The two of them are so in love, it basically radiates off of them.

Giggling at their love sick affection, I wipe the rest of my tears away. "How about we get some food in our bellies?" Joe suggests clapping his hands and rubbing them together, before standing up. "Ok yeah, I'm kinda hungry." I admit, following them into their dining room, where the table has been beautifully set. The food smells amazing, making my mouth water. "This looks amazing as always." I compliment sitting down, ready to dive into the food. "Thank you, (y/n)!" Joe says, as he starts cutting up the turkey he cooked, placing in on each of our plates. "So any new songs?" I ask, eating some of the food, watching Taylor nod excitedly. "Yes, oh my god, I have a new one, but it's not done, I'll play it for you. I've really been loving this new concept, sleepless nights, you know, words just come to me so easily." She says, making me chuckle.

"Mmh don't I know it, I haven't been sleeping in a week, writing songs at 3 am has become a bad habit." I know for sure the dark circles under my eyes tell exactly that. Before this whole debacle with Austin and Joshua, the Met kept me up and now I'm back into that vicious cycle of sleeping 3 to 4 hours a night. "How many more songs do you need till the album is done?" Joe chimes in, directing the question my way. "I'd like to have like 15 songs? And well right now I have 12? Yeah, around that."

"Any features?" Taylor asks and I answer by shaking my head. "Not yet, but I've been writing this song "Past life" and I feel like a male feature would sound amazing on it, but we'll see" I say shrugging my shoulders.

The rest of dinner flying by quite quickly, filled with funny jokes and music. Before I leave Taylor plays me her latest song which she called "Mastermind". A song talking about how strategic women have to be in relationships, to get it right.

Saying my goodbyes to them, I hug them and head down, where Matt waits for me, to drive me back. I can't get Taylor's song out of my mind, I can definitely claim this will be my favorite off of the new album she's working on. I can't wait to record the background vocals for it. My phone buzzes pulling my out of my train of thought. Looking at it I smile at the name popping up on my screen and answer without a second thought.

"How was dinner?" Austin asks smiling brightly at me. "It was great, Joe cooked some great turkey, it was delicious." I say and make Austin laugh, showing him the doggy bag they gave me for home. "They even gave me extra" I say just in case me showing him the bag wasn't enough, which makes him laugh more. Matt opens my door, helping me out of the car and I mouth a low "thank you", before stepping into the elevator and waving at him. "Are you just now getting home?" Austin asks me. "Yeah" I sigh, sitting down on the elevator floor, my legs tired from all the standing and walking I did today. "Did you just sit on the elevator floor?" Austin questions, smiling from ear to ear and scrunching up his nose, making me mirror him. His happy energy rubbing off on me. "Maybe" I say biting my lip to stop myself from laughing.

Austin rolls around in his bed, rubbing his face into the pillows. "Ugh I had like a thousand interviews today, all the same fucking questions." I giggle at his frustration and get up walking into my apartment, heading straight for the kitchen, after I take off my shoes. "Been there done that, but I tell you it gets better once you get to do talk shows, especially if you do Fallon, Jimmy is the funniest ever." I say, as I put food for Simba and William, the two coming quickly to eat. "Yeah, I guess, it's still a bit too much." He says dragging a hand over his face, then he focuses his eyes back on the screen. "You look very pretty tonight by the way." Austin states making me blush, so I hide my face behind my hands. "Hey none of that, come on show me your beautiful eyes." Austin demands

I remove my hands from my face, blushing terribly as my breath is coming in short gasps. I hear my heart beating in my ears, feeling dizzy. He has to stop saying things like this, talking like this. I swallow thickly as he looks at me, deep blue eyes burning holes through me, making me feel like a small gem being watched through a glass window. His stare is so strong and soft at the same time. Austin licks his lips, biting them, making me wish I could feel how soft they were. "What are we doing?" I whisper, not expecting my thought to come out loud, surprising both me and him.

Austin's eyes are still locked on me, as he sits up on his bed, scratching his chest. His naked chest, he doesn't have a shirt on. "Talking?" He questions faking not knowing what I meant. He's either avoiding it as to not embarrass me or because just like me, he doesn't understand what this is. This delicate beginning rush, we feel when we talk to each other, when we see one another. "Why?" I ask, pushing further, even when every fiber in me, screams to stop, to let it go, to enjoy the rush of the moment. "I like talking to you" he says, blushing.

Blushing?! He's blushing? My heart picks up faster, feeling like it's about to fly out of my chest. I try to breathe deep and I clench my fists around the velvet fabric of my dress, making an effort to stop my body from trembling. "It's late, you should get to sleep, night my darling!" Austin says and I'm left with my mouth agape, not getting a chance to answer before he ends the call.

"My darling" he called me that again. I can understand one time being a little mistake, but a second time? He's toying with me, he must be. And I wish I could say that all the things people around me have been saying didn't get to me, but they did. Everything I've been hearing ever since meeting Austin, is to be cautious and smart, to not let myself fall, but I'm afraid I already fell. And now I feel this fear building inside me, fear of getting hurt. I'm not stupid, I understand how he's too old and I'm too young, but the fact that so far this and his fake girlfriend, have been the only reasons keeping me from crushing on him, tells how little I know him.

Stepping into the bathroom, undressing, I turn on the shower, looking at myself in the mirror. You can read, the amount of sleep I've been losing, on my face. Closing my eyes I see flashes of him, his smile and his eyes, I even hear his laugh ringing in my ears. I'm going crazy.

Breathing in, I let the boiling water soak me from head to toe, wishing for it to relax my petrified muscles, but to no avail, I'm too tense. Giving up on trying to relax, I get out, drying myself quickly and putting on pajamas, going straight to the piano. I'm tired but I don't feel sleep crawling up on me, so the best thing to do is sit down at the piano and play until hopefully I can sleep.

Thinking back to Taylor's song, I play it over and over again, until it's 3:15 am and I'm still at the piano, pushing the keys with my now, numb fingers. Picking up my phone I open the camera and rest it on the piano, to film myself. I look like a mess, with hooded eyes and tangled damp hair. "Hi Taylor, um I've been thinking, since I left, I loved the song and the concept of it, you know. Um and I just was thinking, there's a starting point to everything, so why is this girl in our narrative so strategic? Something happened right? In the past." I put some of my hair behind my ears, playing the piano softly. "So I asked myself, what started my overthinking and over analyzing? So I kinda wrote a verse?" I wince a bit at myself, this is the second time I highjack one of her songs. "So here it goes, I'm sorry in advance"

I keep playing and then start singing.

"No one wanted to play with me as a little kid

So I've been scheming like a criminal ever since

To make them love me and make it seem effortless

This is the first time I've felt the need to confess

And I swear

I'm only cryptic and Machiavellian

'Cause I care

So I told you none of it was accidental

And the first night that you saw me

Nothing was gonna stop me

I laid the groundwork, and then

Saw a wide smirk on your face

You knew the entire time

You knew that I'm a mastermind

And now you're mine

Yeah, all you did was smile

'Cause I'm a mastermind"

I finish playing and take the phone in hand, bringing the camera close to my face, giving the worst possible angle of myself. "Ok that's it, anyway, tell me what you think, sorry for bothering you and for pushing myself on this, you don't have to like it or add it or anything. Um anyway it's like 3:30 am so I should sleep, talk soon" I end the video and send it to her, knowing she's see it in the morning.

After that I run up to my room and jump on my fluffy bed, praying to get some sleep, before my 8 am alarm starts ringing. As my body sinks into the soft bed, my thoughts go blank for the first time in so long and I find sleep takes over me, dreamless resting sleep. Rare, but so sweet.

When my phone rings at 8 am I'm too tired to wake up just yet, so I shoot a quick text to Levis telling him that I'm sleeping in today. I put my phone on silent and get back to sleep, but it's not the same dreamless sleep as before.

I'm in my living room and it's dark, soft music playing in the background, music I quickly recognize as being my song - Dandelions. Everything is a bit blurry and in slow motion. Then out of the dark a figure makes it's way over to me. The musky, citrusy smell lighting my senses on fire as Austin circles his arms around me, pulling me to his chest. "You wished on a dandelion for me, well here I am darling. My darling." His lips brush my cheek, his hot breath fanning over my skin, raising goosebumps everywhere. I tremble in his embrace and try to move my head to get a good look at him, but my eyes can't focus, it's weird and I feel the anxiety creeping up on me as I try to see him, but everything is hazy. "Austin" I say, but it's like my voice is coming from under water, muffled and weak. "My darling" it's all he says, tightening his arms around my waist, making my knees go weak as I melt into him. "My Austin" I say giving in. "My darling" he repeats, like it's the only thing he knows.

Suddenly I'm woken up by something jumping up on my chest. Sitting up quickly, I cause William to fall rolling on the bed. I grab the kitty and bring him close to my chest, whispering little apologies. I try to come back to the real world, but I can still feel Austin's breath on my skin. I need to find a way to shake him off, this is getting out of hand. Taking my phone from the night stand, I ignore all notifications and open the message app, texting Joshua.

Me:

Want 2 come over 4 dinner? @ my place?

🎶Joshua🎶:

Yeah, text me the address. What time should I be there?

Me:

6 pm, sound good?

🎶Joshua🎶:

C u at 6pm

Me:

Can't wait 💟

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[casspurrjoybell-17]

Heart’s Choice - Chapter 23 - Part 1

*Warning Adult Content*

- Carlos -

Despite my best efforts to stay awake and be an interesting companion on the drive over to Shasta City, I fall asleep.

I wake up with a crick in my neck, sun burning one side of my face and John watching me from the other side of a stationary vehicle.

We're parked on the side of a street lined with semi-dilapidated houses, which despite their ramshackle appearance still manage to capture a bit of the mountain-town charm.

Craning my neck, I peer out the window but a row of trees obscures my view of the peak for which the town is named.

"Are we there yet?" I mumble, sitting up and rubbing my face.

"Yeah. You sure you're okay?"

"Fine. Just a little tired from my walk on the other side."

He eyes me skeptically.

"You'll be honest with me, won't you? If you're not okay, I mean."

"You got it, partner," I mutter and stretch to crack my back.

If I am being honest, I'm hungry and grumpy and tired despite my nap.

Usually, after expending as much psychic energy as I did this morning, I'd eat something chocolatey and caffeinated, a grande mocha Frappuccino sounds about perfect right now but for some reason I don't want to mention this.

John is so strong and stoic, I don't want to seem like I can't keep up.

Unfortunately, he's also unusually perceptive, for a guy.

"We'll try to make this quick," he says. "Then we'll get something to eat. There's a Black Bear Diner we can hit on the way out of town."

I look over at him, surprised and he winks.

"Becky and I may not have been married long but I learn fast. Driving for hours without stopping for something to eat is a cardinal sin of mine, apparently."

Great, now he's comparing me to his nagging ex- wife.

So much for matching his machismo.

I start to turn away when he interrupts my thoughts with a light touch on my arm.

When I look at him again, his expression is earnest and almost... tender.

"Carlos, having basic needs doesn't make you weak," he says. "If you're hungry, tired, thirsty or whatever, say something. I'm not gonna judge you for it. Fuck, if I saw what you described seeing in that place, I'd piss myself but you just brushed it off like it was no big deal. I'm not gonna think you're weak if you need to stop for a rest or something to eat. You're human."

"And you're not," I say, frowning at him. "And how do you know what I was thinking, anyway?"

His expression clouds and he backs off, facing forward again and staring out the windshield.

"I'm mostly human and it was just a lucky guess."

He nods at a house a little further down the street.

"You ready?"

"Sure."

"Good," he says. "Let's do this."

According to the Shasta City police, Daryl Sparks, P.I. lived with his wife and worked out of a small shed in his backyard, which he'd converted to an office.

As John parks in the weedy patch of dirt that serves as a driveway in front of a house that can most kindly be described as a 'fixer upper' I let out a low whistle.

"Guess the P.I. business wasn't booming, huh?"

"Sparks only got his license a few months ago," John says.

"Before that, he ran a pool business into the ground. His resume is a list of failed ventures and get-rich-quick schemes and he was up to his eyeballs in gambling debt. Our best guess is he was hoping to run a little extortion game on the side, blackmailing people he spied on for his paying clients. If so, it's not off to a great start."

I fail to hide my surprise.

"You think he found out who killed Kyle and tried to blackmail them?"

If a guy whose detective training probably consisted of watching reruns of Cops cracked the case while we're still in the dark, it doesn't say much for the official efforts.

"Maybe he got lucky," John says, as we walk up the overgrown path to the front door. "Or thought he did, right up until whoever he tried to blackmail used him for carving practice instead."

He rings the doorbell, the button of which is only half attached to the wall.

I see movement behind the frosted glass of the door and it opens to reveal a woman dressed in pajamas, a robe and fuzzy slippers.

Her hair is gathered in a messy bun on top of her head and yesterday's makeup smudges her face.

I don't hazard a guess at her age, given how haggard she looks, she could be anywhere between twenty-five and forty.

"Pearl Sparks?" John hangs back, keeping a non-threatening distance between us and the door, and holds out his badge.

"Yeah?"

"I'm Detective John Turner, of the Spring Lakes Police Department. This is my partner, Carlos Martinez."

She leans against the doorframe.

"Jesus, don't you people have something better to do than harass me? Like find the fuck who killed Daryl? I've answered your questions already. You have more, you can talk to my lawyer."

She starts to shut the door and John turns up the charm.

"Wait, Mrs. Sparks," he says, stepping forward and catching the door before she can close it. "We won't take long, I promise. We'd just like to have a look around Daryl's office. We just need your permission to come on the property."

She scowls a him but I can tell she's softening.

Another flash from John's mercurial autumn eyes and she's butter.

"Well, I guess that's alright. Just don't break anything."

"We'll be extra careful," he promises.

She nods.

"Fine. Lemme get the key. Meet me 'round back."

She shuts the door and John releases a breath.

"Fuck, I'm glad that worked."

I frown at him.

"Did you just 'Dracula' her?"

"What?"

I lower my voice.

"Like, vampire hypnosis, or whatever."

He laughs that low, breathy laugh that gets me in the balls.

"What? No. Why?"

I shake my head, almost certain he'd used some super-human influence to get his way with Mrs. Sparks, if he smiled at me like that, he could have his way all too easily.

"You okay?" he asks, for the second time in the last quarter hour.

"I'm fine," I say, brushing him off with maybe a little more asperity than necessary. "Let's not keep dear Mrs. Sparks waiting."

As we pick our way around the side of the house, stepping over bits of old fence and other rubbish, I rub my chest.

'Jealousy. That's what I'm feeling.'

I've heard it described before plenty of times and read about it in books, I thought I knew it pretty well, in fact, from my days of pining after people who'd already met their perfect match.

Nope. That, I realize now, was envy.

Jealousy is a whole different monster.

I envied what others had, saw them enjoying what I wanted.

What I just felt was jealousy over the prospect that someone else might take what's mine.

Which is ridiculous.

Because I remind myself as I trail behind him, my eyes wistfully brushing the span of his shoulders and imagining all the muscles beneath his shirt...

John isn't mine.

[frizzle-tales]

She actually had a shot at getting out of here.

Sure, she only had a chance to once a month… but, on the other side, this also could mean that a month from today, she could be free and away from Taehyung.

Absentmindedly, Jiyeon started on dinner and then served the meals, and lost in thought, she started thinking about the things she would do first when she was out of this place. How would she get back into her apartment without the keys? Was she even still allowed to go back to the apartment or would someone else be living there now? How about all her stuff?

But her thoughts process was interrupted when Taehyung demanded her to tag along, and she did, holding back a comment; I am perfectly capable of walking by myself - it was something that she had noticed Taehyung doing to her often… dragging and holding onto her to make her move everywhere, and lately, it was starting to irritate her.

But she kept it to herself for now and complied as she was led to the living room, before Taehyung seemed excited about showing her something exciting on the news.

When the segment started, Jiyeon held in her breath, expecting the worse, and when she heard her name, Jiyeon sat up straight, hanging onto every word that the news reporter articulated, and when she realized what all of this meant, she let out a shaky breath.

“No…” She refused to believe that this was the end, that people would stop looking and hoping for her to be found. “This isn’t right, they will know, someone will know that’s not me, people can’t just give up on me like that.” She stood from the sofa, stepping away from Taehyung, however Jiyeon wasn’t sure where she would go, or what she was going to say or do next. “So… that’s why you killed her.” Jiyeon came to the conclusion, yet, her mind was overloading.

“I am going to the kitchen.” She simply said, wanting to leave, wanting to get away from Taehyung. “The dishes… I need to do the dishes.”

— 🎙

"Are you so sure about that?" Taehyung mused, cocking his head to the side as he soaked in the girl's reaction. It was perfect. "If you know just the right people, so many things can get swept under the rug.."

He watched as the young woman stood up, his jaw then clenching in annoyance. How many times will it take before she realizes she's not her own person anymore? He makes the decisions. He decides when she gets up or sits down. He decides when she gets to leave.

She was his; he decides everything for her now.

"I don't think so." Taehyung tsked his tongue before grabbing Jiyeon's arm, using it to yank her closer before pulling her onto his lap. His arms wrapped around her waist tightly, keeping her glued in place. "You're going to miss the best part ..." He whispered, his breath fanning against the girl's skin.

"... Authorities were able to identify the body of the young woman through a bracelet left on her wrist, which Park Jiyeon's grandparents were able to ID as belonging to their granddaughter."

A laugh vibrated in Taehyung's chest before he pressed the girl closer to his body, parting his lips to taunt her. "It's really such a shame, isn't it? They sound so heartbroken.. Who knew they'd miss you so much."

The camera view soon switched to show Jiyeon's grandparents, standing in front of the crime scene with tears in their eyes.

"... She was our world, our sweet little girl. She had the brightest smile, she was friendly with whoever she came across.. Who could.. Who would do such a horrible thing ..." Her grandmother started before a wave of sobs lodged any words in her throat.

Her husband soon pulled her into an embrace, deciding to speak for her despite the shaking of his own voice. "Whoever did this, you won't get away with it.. I can only wish you rot in hell for the life you have stolen."

[vid-writes]

Lost V-Card (Ch. 6)

Just like with every other part of this story this is made for adults only. Please do not interact with this story in any capacity if you are not 18+

That night, just as the sun finally started to set, we crossed into Drudour. The driver informed us that at the last stop, to refuel, he was given the address of a hotel to take us to for the night.

About twenty minutes later, we pulled into the parking lot of a high-rise hotel. Marble columns support the front covered area. I've seen plenty of columns in my life, but they are different from these. They're a rose gold color, but it looks more like someone dusted them with the color. And instead of plainness or lines carved into them, they're adorned with a whole bunch of different flowers. For once, they're flowers that my magic won't affect.

"Her Majesty, Queen Caitlin, has booked the usual family suite," the driver says as he opens the door for us this time. Since he chose my side of the car, I slid out first and accepted his outstretched hand's help.

"Thank you, Jeffery," Kari says as the driver gets back into the front seat once we are all out. He pulled the limo out of the front entrance and around the corner into the back of the parking lot since I could not see it all the way back there.

"Jeffery and the shadow limo drivers will each have their rooms on the floor below ours," Elidi offers up to no one in particular as we enter the hotel. There's a line of people on either side of the main walkway, and they all bow as we enter. The line leads us straight to the elevator, where an attendant for the damn thing informs us someone will bring our bags up shortly.

The elevator is one of the smoothest and fastest I've ever been on. Before we stop, it takes us twenty seconds to reach the top floor, floor forty.

The ride up here might not have made me dizzy, but the view from the balcony indeed does. I'm not necessarily afraid of heights, but even in a castle, I've never been this high up.

The clouds look close enough that I can touch them, but I know they're not.

The elevator took us into the living room, which was covered in big fluffy furniture, all in the scarlet and sand colors of Drudour.

Elidi had bowed to us both and disappeared behind a door to what I assumed was her room. Kari was still showing me around, but I was still absorbed in the view of these immaculate windows.

When I finally turned around, Kari was watching me with a soft smile on his face. He led me to a door on the opposite side of the room to the one Elidi had gone behind. The door opens into a giant primary suite and a bathroom off to one side.

I want to see the bathroom more than anything and find my feet heading that way before I can stop myself. There are giant saloon-style doors made of scarlet wood. The symbol of Drudour is an eagle carrying an ornate telescope.

The bathroom is so gorgeous that I almost don't register that the bathtub takes up half the room and is sunken into the floor. It's big enough for about ten people.

"That's officially the biggest bathtub I've seen in my life. And this is your family's suite here?" The astonishment in my voice has Kari hiding a laugh with a none-too-convincing cough.

"Yes, My Shining Star," he says with a twinkle of amusement in his eyes.

"You're really sticking to that nickname, aren't you?"

"Why wouldn't I?" He cocks his head to the side with an ever-growing smirk plastered on his mouth.

"Fine, I'll let you have it," I concede. Kari closes the gap between us and captures my hips in his hands.

"Good because I wasn't going to give it up no matter how much you protested. It's accurate, and I love it," Kari whispers as he presses his nose on mine.

"Is it bad that even though we've both had baths this morning, I want to take another one?" He kisses my nose as he adds, "With you, of course, because your interest in that tub has me amused."

I shake my head and kiss his lips before I step back.

"I'll need help out of this dress. It's tight, and trying to reach the zipper when it's in the middle of my back is impossible," I grouse as I turn to the tub and look for the spout. There isn't one that I can see. Not even so much as a button on the tub or a slit on the side walls.

"I guess I'll need help turning on the tub, too," I sigh. Kari steps around me.

He presses a hand to one side of the wall, and a small panel pops open and slides out of the way. In the space, there is an opening high up in the nook and a small panel covered in buttons.

"This tub just keeps getting more impressive," I breathe out as I stare in awe. Kari punches a few of the buttons, and water starts flowing from the slit in the wall. It arcs perfectly into the tub. There's minimal splashing.

The water is already set to the perfect temperature because it's steaming. I also smell lavender and cinnamon. Even bubbles start to appear along the top of the water after it's halfway full.

Less than two minutes have passed by the time the tub has filled. Kari steps back behind me and grabs my hips.

He kisses my shoulder slowly as one hand slides up my spine. His fingers stop at the zipper and start to tug it down. My body shudders as the dress falls away from me. Only my white bra and thong set remain.

"Oh, I absolutely made the right choice picking this set-out," Kari says as he uses his hold on my hips to spin me to face him. The fact that he picked this outfit out makes my core throb hard.

"Looks like you did," I reply as my fingers start to work open the buttons of his shirt. Once it's off, I make quick work of his pants. All that's left are his boxers. We are both blushing as his cool skin is the only thing keeping the fire burning inside my core from consuming me.

"The water will be getting cold soon," I whisper as Kari's fingers pull at the back of my bra teasingly.

"Nope. The whole thing is enchanted," Kari says back as he finally unhooks my bra and pulls it away from my chest. My breasts spill free, but Kari is still looking at my face.

His fingers hook into my thong and pull it down. He has to kneel to get it off my ankles, and then he traps one of my thighs with his strong fingers. I shudder as the coolness climbs up my skin, and my fingers delve into his hair.

"I want to feast on you so I can forget today and not think about what's going to happen tomorrow," he says. His voice is thick with desire as he steadies me with his other hand on my hip. The hand holding my thigh captive pulls it further open. Another shudder rends through me as I realize what he intends to do.

"I'd very much enjoy that, Kari," I say as I tighten my grip on his hair. That's the only coherent sentence I managed to get out for a long time.

Kari's tongue dives into my folds, and it's like nothing I've ever felt before. My fingers tighten in his hair, and he tightens on my thigh. I have to remind myself there's no tub ledge for me to sit on as my legs are already starting to grow weak. His tongue slides up to that bundle of nerves he's already learned how to work with expert ease, and in seconds, I'm coming.

"Fuck Kari," I gasp out as he sucks that bud between his lips. His other hand slides between my thighs, and he teases one finger against my core. Just as I'm about to come undone again, there's an urgent knock on the door.

"For fucks sake," Kari growls out against my thigh. Just as he's standing up, the knock sounds again. Kari gently pushes me into the tub, and I sink below the bubbles. With a huffed-out sigh, he pulls a towel in front of his cock and then opens the bathroom door.

"I'm so sorry to interrupt, but things have gotten worse. The protesters stirred up some sympathy here in Drudour, and now it isn't perfect. They decided to target you guys because this marriage requires more travel through Sorith than there has been in a long time. Thanks to their laws and rules here in Drudour, no one is allowed to remove the crowd of protestors. Princess Flora's parents want us back on the road in twenty minutes tops," Elidi explains in a rush. Kari turns to me with a mixture of emotions present in his eyes.

"Let us bathe quickly and find Flora a dress she can get on easily. We will be out in ten minutes," he directs Elidi without looking away from me.

"Yes, Your Grace," Elidi says as she sketches a bow to us before turning on her heels and leaving.

"Well, it looks like I will be putting the plans I had for tonight on hold," Kari sighs as he steps down into the bath with me. I'm already washing my body with a loofah hanging on the wall behind the tub.

"Ah, don't worry about it. We have the rest of our lives," I say as I rinse off the soap from my skin.

"You only lose your virginity once," he purrs as he loops his arms around my waist. Heat fills my cheeks as I look up into his mismatched eyes.

"That is very much something I'd like to do before I'm old and gray," I sigh as he kisses down my neck.

"I promise I won't make us wait much longer," he says as he presses one more kiss to my neck.

As promised, ten minutes later, I pull a pale green sundress over my head. It barely brushes my calves, just under my knees. This outfit might be the most informal I've ever dressed. There's a pair of sandals to go with the dress, no heels. All the tension aside, this might be heaven.

"I'm never wearing another stupid elaborate gown again," I comment as the three of us ride the elevator down to the lobby.

"Trust me, I'll do everything I can to make sure that happens once we're married," Kari declares as the elevator comes to a stop.

"While I'm glad to hear that, I'm also going to make sure that it happens before then. At least in my kingdom," I promise as we head for the front doors. There needs to be a line of employees to send us off—just a couple of tense-looking receptionists behind the desk.

As the doors open, the dull roar of the crowd outside meets my ears. They're chanting something in unison that I can't make out because the limo is less than a meter away from us, and the door is already being held open.

Before anyone can stop me, I spin around and sprint for the front desk. My actions startle everyone, especially the receptionists.

"Sorry for running up on you two like this," I pant out as I reach the desk, "but I wanted to know if I could get a key card to take with me. I don't know if we will be able to come back here for a while, and I want something to remember this place." The male receptionist looks confused as the woman next to him, who I assume is his sister, digs out a card for me. She hands it over, and I thank them both.

When I make it back to the front doors, Elidi is seething.

"Save it. I wanted to remember this place," I explain as I hold up the plastic card. It's plain white, other than the sand-colored fancy script letter v on the front.

"Your romantic little token could have caused a major security issue," she grouses as we all slide into the limo.

"I'm not apologizing," I snap at her. Honestly, I understand the tension she's under, but the sudden change in personality makes me feel hostile. She holds up her hands in surrender from across the limo.

The rest of the ride, until we have to stop to refuel, is full of tense silence. Making sure I tuck my little token between my breasts, I follow Elidi to the women's restroom.

"I'm sorry for snapping at you over the key card," I yell as she finishes making sure that the bathroom doesn't have a secret assassin hiding in it or something.

"It's alright. I shouldn't have spoken to you that way," she says as she nods that I can come in. It's a big bathroom with several stalls, so how she managed to clear it in such a short amount of time surprised me.

After I've relieved myself, I ask if we can grab some snacks and something to drink. Just as Kari is walking into the store, my stomach growls loudly.

"We need to get you something more than just a bag of chips or trail mix," he says as he walks to the front counter. He doesn't even have to tell the clerk anything; she informs him that the Royal Kroqales financial department will receive a bill later.

We piled back into the limo a little while later, basically covered in food. We each grabbed one of the quick and easy meals they offered and then raided the snacks aisles like unattended children in a candy store. As we were eating, I decided to pull out my key card to make sure I still had it. Unfortunately, my hand pulled back empty.

"I lost my V-card," I nearly shrieked, causing Kari to choke on his hot dog. Elidi just started laughing—a full-body shaking-style laugh. Half of her snacks fell off her lap, and now it's her turn to shriek.

"You mean the key card you breached security protocols for," Kari asks, his voice laced with bemusement.

"Yes, that one," I snipe back at him, but I'm not angry.

"Don't worry. I can have another one sent to us," Kari reassures us as he pulls out his phone. Elidi has decided to sit on the floor among the pile of snacks she dropped, still laughing.

"That was honestly funnier than it had any right to be," she finally says after her laughter ceases.

"Well, you are the one who interrupted foreplay," I quip back at her. This time, it's her turn to choke on her food.

Kari's laughter floods the back of the limo, and I forget everything else that has happened today.

The next day, we are all half asleep in various spots around the limo when it finally rolls to a stop in Vrathia. Before I can even sit up, the door is yanked open. My mom leans in the door, and her eyes light when they land on me. I am in one piece, not harmed.

"Hi, Mom," I mutter as she all but climbs in the limo to pull me out. The only thing stopping her is the size of her skirts.

Once I'm out of the car, she pulls me into a tight hug, and I can feel her shaking. She always maintains a calm demeanor, something I get from her. But when it comes to my brother and me, she's very emotion-driven. And since nothing like this has remotely happened for longer than anyone can remember, I'm sure she's been out of her mind with worry.

"I know you were texting as often as you could, but I was still so worried," she exclaims in a hushed whisper. Her arms are still around me like a vise grip, but I'm returning the favor in kind.

"I'm alright, mama. Kari and Elidi would never let anything happen to me," I reassure her as she finally pulls back a little bit enough to give me a more thorough look-over. When she's decided I'm really unharmed, she turns to the nearest maid she sees.

"Get my daughter a hot meal and a hot bath," she commands.

"Mom, I'm fine, I promise. I want to sleep," I say with a yawn.

"I'm sure you do, but I want you clean and full before you sleep," she says, and her tone leaves no room for argument. She even escorts me to my room as Kari and Elidi trail behind us.

"Once you have rested, we can talk about what happened," she proclaims once we reach my room. As for you two," she turns to Kari and Elidi. One of Flora's ladies-in-waiting will show Elidi to a room where she can stay. Kari, your suite from last time is ready for you. A hot meal and bath are awaiting you as well. Elidi, we can have a meal brought to you and a bath drawn for you if you'd like."

Elidi accepts my mom's offer as I push into my room. I don't bother to tell anyone goodbye or anything as I close the doors behind me. I want some quiet and to sleep. But I know if I don't eat and bathe, someone will tell my mom, and she will make a big deal about me not wanting her to care for me.

After the meal and my bath, I climb into my bed completely naked. I don't even bother with any of my lights or curtains as I surrender to the blackness of sleep.

It's early evening as Kari and I ascend the hill to our consummation tent. The compromise of the ancient tradition where people watched the consummation of a royal marriage. As proof and shit.

"Don't worry, I promise I'll have you so distracted from the presence of guests with pleasure you won't even remember anyone can hear you," Kari purrs in my ear from behind, where he carries the train of my elaborate wedding gown.

He pulls open the flap to the giant silver tent, and inside, it nearly takes my breath away. In the center is an enormous four-poster bed—more prominent than any I've ever seen. The wood is white with silver inlaid in it, and the bedding matches the color of the frame.

Kari's lips are on my neck, and he gently tugs the veil comb out of my hair. I requested the half-up and half-down hair so that I could wear a veil like this. He tosses it somewhere to the side and starts to work on my dress.

It has more buttons and ribbons than anything I've ever worn. Yet somehow, Kari has it dropping to the floor in a pool of white silk and tulle in mere minutes.

The corset-style top prevented me from wearing a bra, so I'm standing there in a white thong, white thigh-high socks held up by white garters, and silver heels on my feet.

Kari circles me slowly like a predator assessing their prey. When he finally pounces his mouth on mine, it is like cold fire. His tongue devours my mouth as his hands knead my breasts. Somehow, we had indeed made it to our wedding night with our virginity intact. So, the tension was thick and palpable.

My fingers make quick work of his suit, and soon, he's standing in just his boxers. He picks me up with his hands underneath my ass and carries me to the bed. With such gentleness, I'm not sure how he's maintaining. He lays me down and finishes undressing me.

Before I can get in a thought, let alone a word edgewise, his tongue delves into my core. The moan rips from my throat before I can stop it as he fucks me with his tongue. Before my orgasm can truly build, he withdraws. As I'm whining with need, he pushes down his boxers.

"Fuck," I breathe out as his cock springs free. The veins are already throbbing so hard I can see them from here.

"What an apt statement," he teases out as he climbs on the bed between my thighs. He leans down and captures one of my nipples in his mouth before I can repeat anything.

My hands drag down his back with sharp, deep scratches as he sucks and licks on my nipple. The moans coming out of me are getting louder and louder. Just as I'm about to start begging, Kari pushes the head of his cock into my core.

"Ahhhhh fuck Kari," I nearly shout as he pushes in the head of his cock. My nails dig into his skin deeper. His mouth moves to my other nipple as his hand works the one he abandoned. The pleasure floods me again as he pushes his cock in another inch.

I'm mewling now as he slowly slides all the way in. When his hips come to a stop, I think he's buried inside of me entirely. Then he pulls out slowly and slams home with such force I do scream. And I know what I thought was his entire cock before had only been around half. He repeats this over and over again.

Pull almost out all of the way and slowly, then slam back in entirely in one rough thrust. Kari's cock stretches me more than I have ever felt. Just enough pain tinges the pleasure that I feel that when he slams into my cervix for the fourth time, I cum with a scream so loud I know everyone in the kingdom heard.

"Now that business is out of the way," he murmurs in my ear. This time, when he pulls out, it's just as fast as when he slams back in.

He is fucking me hard and rough. My hips lift to meet his now, and I can see by the look on his face he's about to come undone soon.

I jolt awake, panting as someone knocks on my door. With a groan, I slide out of bed and snatch up a robe. I'm about sick of being cucked, even in my dreams. 

Buy me a coffee?

[squadron-goals]

Valenciennes, 25 April 1917

Dear Miss Annamarie! So the cup has not passed me by. So now I live here in a castle near Valenciennes in the middle of an old park and draw from the well of my experience to train young fighter pilots. It's a lot of work, because we have about 80 apprentices here now. I take great comfort in the fact that my "headmaster", Hauptmann Zander, whom I already know as a brave comrade-in-arms from his Jagdstaffel 1, is a competent sportsman and also a great guy in other respects; in his civilian capacity, by the way, he is based in Düsseldorf. Soon Höhndorf will come here as a teacher - then we'll fly to the front every now and then. You see: I have come to terms with my situation to some extent. Only the sense of the whole enterprise is not yet quite clear to me. Back then, we just sat down in the single-seater and started shooting - and lo and behold: it worked. Today we have to retrain diligently. I mean: Either someone has what it takes to be a capable fighter pilot, in which case he can do it without "retraining" - or he doesn't have it, in which case the school can't teach him either. But this may be a view that was true at the time when only people of passion turned to the new fighter aviation; with the present mass influx, a sharp and ruthless selection must now take place, and this seems to me the most important part of my tasks. When I have finished my schoolmaster's work in the evening, I listen on the telephone to what Richthofen and his squires have done during the day, and platonically intoxicate myself with their successes. I fly over to Richthofen as often as I can - it is always a pleasure to be with Staffel 11; there is the same spirit and passion there as in the best times with Boelcke. It is great to see Richthofen with his Moritz. That is his intimate, but a four-legged one. He once bought him as a cute little lap dog somewhere in Belgium for 5 marks. Moritz then took part in the World War, inseparable from his master, was also with us in Russia, and in the meantime has become a giant beast that undoubtedly bears a certain resemblance to an Ulm Mastiff. His master, however, firmly claims that Moritz has a purebred pedigree. Richthofen loves his Moritz dearly, and lately he also loves my brother Gerhard because he recently cured him of something. Moritz is not really my cup of tea, but you mustn't let that be noticed if you don't want to offend the good Richthofen. My case is the German Pointer and even more so the Dachshund, this droll humourist and idiosyncratic character. The least I like the St. Bernard, whom I know well enough from Switzerland; when he is transplanted from his element, the mountains, to the lowlands, he becomes a boring, grumpy, asthmatic patron - he always seems to me like some fat, saturated, aloof banker in a club chair. By the way, Gerhard also massaged my arm back into shape. I've always said that a person with something wrong is an ass if he doesn't go straight to a competent vet. I was just interrupted, Richthofen came to me (he had quickly bagged No. 47 on the way) and asked me to take over as his replacement during his upcoming vacation. He is at a loss as to who he should give this to because the two best in his Staffel are currently away: Voss, who already has 24 victories and the Pour le mérite, is on vacation himself, and Schäfer, who shot down 23 opponents in barely two months, has just been taken away from him to lead another squadron. Richthofen can't wait for Voss's return because he needs to go on vacation as soon as possible - they want to get him to safety; It's similar to when Boelcke was sent to Turkey. You can imagine how tempting Richthofen's request is for me. What could be more wonderful than being able to lead this select squadron for a few weeks?! But nothing will probably come of it - they won't let me leave here. Brother Martin writes enthusiastically about his bombing missions in Russia. But I have to sit aside and this time I can only greet you as Your poor schoolmaster

[liaswritesrobots]

Tobot Galaxy Detectives: First Meeting

Tobot Galaxy Detectives

Characters included: Sergeant Justice, my OC

***

First Meeting

It was a calm morning in the local cafe. I was sitting alone at a table drinking my coffee while reading through a big educational college level textbook on psychology. As I’m doing this, I’m listening to some lofi hip hop music on my silver bose wireless headphones with the music streaming from my phone. After a few hours, I finish drinking my coffee. I decide to stretch my legs for a bit and go for a walk in the park. I pay the bill with my debit card and I get ready to leave. I put my card back in my wallet and I put it back in my bag, but unbeknownst to me, my driver’s license falls out as I do so. I leave the cafe and I head to my car. I unlock the door with my keys and I go to open the door. But before I can open the door I feel someone tap my shoulder. I remove my headphones and I put them around my neck. I turn around, and much to my surprise, a robot that’s about 5 feet in height is standing in front of me. Something about this guy gives off a strong cop vibe, because his structure is modeled after a police officer, and his eyes are covered by a pair of dark shades. I notice the robot is holding something in his hand.

“Excuse me Miss, but you dropped this.” I look at the item in his hand. To my surprise, it’s my driver’s license. My license. Did I drop this? I must have. I think to myself. I take the license from the robot’s outstretched hand. I put my license into my wallet which then goes back in my bag. I look back at the robot who returned my license with a small smile.

“Thank you, uh...” I trail off realizing I don’t know who this robot is.

“Tobot Sergeant Justice, at your service Ma’am.” Sergeant Justice says with a respectful salute. As he does this, his visor flashes as if he were winking at me. This causes me blush slightly. 

“Thank you Sergeant Justice.” Sergeant Justice nods in acknowledgement. 

“Tell me, what is your name?” Sergeant Justice asks.

“My name is Angelina, Angelina Ning Sotiriou.” I reply. 

“That’s a very pretty name for a pretty girl like you Angelina.” I blush again, and the blush is more visible now.

“Oh, uh, thanks. Well, I better get going now, you have a great rest of your day Sergeant.”

“Of course, you too, Angel.” Sergeant Justice says with a respectful nod. Then Sergeant Justice does something completely unexpected. He takes my hand, brings it up to his face and he ever so gently kisses the top of it. His visor flashes immediatley afterwards. He looks at me with a warm and kind smile. Did Sergeant Justice just kiss my hand? And did he just call me Angel? At this point, I’m blushing like crazy. I kind of like the sound of that coming from him though. Sergeant Justice seems pretty nice. He watches me get into my car and pull out of my parking spot. I drive away and I start heading over to the park. I can see Sergeant Justice seeing me off in the rear view mirror. He watches me drive off, his warm smile still on his face. He was hoping he would be able to see me again some day, thinking I was a person worth getting to know. 

And fortunately, his wish was granted. A month later, Sergeant Justice was at the park with some other Tobots, and I happened to be there too. Sergeant Justice sees me walking by him a few feet away, and he waves to me with a smile. I see him waving and I return the gesture. I notice his friends with him and I wave to them. 

A beautiful friendship was about to begin...

***

In case you’re wondering what show this character comes from, it’s a Korean CGI cartoon animated robot themed show called Tobot Galaxy Detectives. I decided to write a first meeting scenario with my favorite tobot character, Sergeant Justice. I also wrote another scenario where I meet Sergeant Justice again and I meet the rest of the Tobots.

--

Awww this is cute, I got the pic of him you sent but Tumblr won't let me post pic submissions anymore, he looks adorable!

[wendystales]

Memories - lrh (Chapter Eighteen)

Memories (also on Wattpad)

Chapter Seventeen ※ ※ ※ ※ ※ Chapter Nineteen

I remember the first time I really wanted to see New York. I must have been about 12 years old and was watching a random episode of Friends that was on TV. I saw those flashes of the city between one scene and another, and I thought it was amazing, the great stone jungle.

When I turned 16, my dad gifted me with a trip to New York, not because it was my favorite place in the world, but because it was on sale. There were 10 days where the only time I stopped to rest was bedtime. We went to almost every tourist spot, took thousands of photos and it was definitely one of the best trips I've ever been on.

Now, the city that I once wanted to know and live in, like the characters in Friends, felt like a prison. I wasn't there of my own free will or for a truly irrefutable proposal. I was there out of fear and passion, the most dangerous mixture.

I believe that at some point, a few months from now, I'm going to start loving New York, but right now, I can only feel contempt.

I pass through the arrivals gate, looking at those millions of unfamiliar faces, waiting for someone. I'm looking for a sign with my name or the logo of the Hastings Agency.

I find my name in the hands of a boy a little taller than me. Dark hair and fair skin, he needs sun. In an impeccable suit, but fumbling with his cell phone and notepad.

I approach slowly, able to hear his voice, replaying a million things. He said something about waiting for me to arrive and taking me to the hotel. Something about treating me kindly and not asking questions. I stop in front of him with a sympathetic smile, watching him widen his eyes and quickly turn off his cell phone.

“Miss McGonagall, welcome to New York.” he takes my hand, squeezing it and shaking it quickly. “I'm Edward. I will be responsible for your schedule.” I can't control the smile, noticing him nervousness. In other words, he was my Noah.

“Hi! Yeah, you can call me Marnie, that's fine. I prefer, actually.”

“Oh! Of course.” his cheeks turn pink. “Well, I'll drop you off at the hotel to rest and tomorrow at 8:00 am you should be at Valentino's studio for the rehearsal of the new bag collection. At 2:45 pm you should already be at Chanel's studio, they want to take your measurements and do some color and fabric tests for the fashion show at the end of the month. Then, at 5:00 pm, you will participate in the E! podcast, and I believe that after that you will be free for the rest of the day.” he passes it on to me as we head out of the airport.

“OK!” that's all I have to say.

“Sorry if I'm being nosy, but were you the one who required a lot of work for the next two months? I mean, you have a really busy schedule. If you don't want something, I can try to help.” he flips through the calendar while we wait for a car.

“No! It's OK. I was the one who asked. I was down for a while and I need to get back to work.” I give a slight smile, debating. "Hm, was the doctor I asked for by any chance be marked?"

“Yes! Wednesday at 3pm.” he smiles proudly, making me smile too. Edward seems like a nice guy.

We got into a silver car and went to the hotel. Along the way, Edward answers a few calls, closing in on his tasks. I seize the moment and close myself in my own world. I get my cell phone, turning it on and seeing that tsunami of people looking for me. Missed calls, messages, dm on twitter and instagram, everyone looking for me, but not him.

I lock my cell phone, trying to focus my mind on the new beginning I sought for myself. I admire the city through the car window, trying to find a piece of home there. I feel the phone vibrate in my lap with Kyleen's name, but I just decline the call. In seconds, the screen lights up again and several messages come in, I believe they are hers, but I don't even bother to look. I have no courage.

The car stops in front of the Intercontinental, and just like that, Edward jumps out of the car.

“Your loft, unfortunately, is not ready yet. So you're going to have to stay here for a few days.” he explains, heading towards the reception desk.

I stand behind him, taking in the details of the hotel. Before long, I'm entering a room on the 14th floor, with a beautiful view of the city. The bags are left in the small room before the bedroom.

I smile at my new “Noah” showing that everything is perfect.

“Good! I'll let you rest for tomorrow. Anything, these are my phones.” he gives me a card. "And you can call me at any time. I live near here, I will come in a few minutes.”

“Thank you so much, Edward. You are very kind." Again, your cheeks turn pink.

As he heads for the door, I start rummaging through my bags for pajamas.

“Hm, sorry if I'm not being professional right now, but since I believe we'll be working together in the next few months, I imagine a good relationship is essential, so you can call me Eddie.”

I open an even bigger smile, seeing that Eddie was willing to make a friendship, which is perhaps the thing I need most at the moment.

“Thanks, Eddie!” he smiles and this time he walks away, leaving me alone again.

I go back to looking for a more comfortable outfit, ignoring my cell phone blinking on the table as I muted it. I grab my clothes, heading to a shower and stay there for a long time, letting the water take everything.

When I get out of the shower, I pick up the bedroom phone, dialing my mother's number, I don't want to take the risk of answering any of my cell phone calls.

"Hello?" her lost tone makes me smile weakly.

“Hi Mom!”

“Hi, my love. How are you? Marnie, what's going on? Leah came here to say you left without saying goodbye. I called Luke, but he did not answer me and Noah said something about you being to move to New York, you told me it would be just a month.” I cover the phone, not wanting her to hear my cry, letting the tears fall. "Marnie?"

“I'm sorry, Mom.” I can't control my voice and pretend it's okay.

“Honey, what's going on? You can tell me. Mom will help you.” I realize she wants to cry too, and that hurts me more.

“I needed to do this, needed to get away from him.” the revelation comes out before I can see it.

"He who? Luke? Why? I thought everything was fine.” her desperate tone returns.

“I'm sorry I can't talk.” I close my throat, holding back tears. “I just want to let you know that I arrived well and that everything is fine.”

“Fine? Marnie, just look at your voice, your condition. I saw what you did to the apartment. Honey, things aren't fine.” now she was angry.

“Mom, please just trust me. I know what I'm doing.” Do I? I clear my throat, holding back the emotion. “I just wanted to call to say I got okay. Later we'll talk.” I hang up the phone before she asks anything else.

I head to the bathroom, drying my hair. I notice that yesterday's anger is still in me as I can't face my image in the mirror, refusing to look deep into my eyes.

With dry hair, I go back to my room, thinking about taking a nap, since I haven't slept all night and even less on the flight. I close my eyes, trying to focus my thoughts on something else. I think about that taxi I saw earlier, trying to park. Or people crossing the street without looking at the sign. At the cookie shop I want to see.

I manage to evade Luke's, my mother's, John's, and Noah's voices, giving myself more and more to the sleep that finally came. Far away, I hear someone knocking hard on the door, but I ignore it, as I had the same thoughts yesterday morning. But I wake up when the pounding comes back stronger and Leah's voice enters the room.

“Marnie Elizabeth McGonagall, open this shit now before I drop it and you know I'm capable of it.” I leap out of bed, running to the door.

She can’t be here.

I open the door, revealing Leah with perhaps the worst expression I've ever seen in the world. She was furious, if not more so. As she storms into my room without waiting for an invitation, I quickly look down the hall, seeing a couple look at me startled. I smile awkwardly, closing the door.

“What are you doing here?” I question, still not understanding.

"What are you doing here? And without warning anyone. Fading in the morning. Breaking up with Luke. What the fuck was that?” she screams.

For a second, I see that my amnesia was an issue with my plan. By not remembering my friendship with everyone, I really believed that I just left and everything would be fine. I didn't imagine anyone would cross the country for me, to understand what was going on.

And if Leah did it, it's a matter of hours before someone else does. They weren't going to leave me alone, they weren't going to forget me, and they weren't going to let this story pass. I need to push them away, but I don't know how.

"Go on, Marnie. What the fuck is going on? And if you tell me it's a job offer, I swear I'll fly at you without pity or mercy, and I'll slap the truth out.” she cross her arms.

I consider the last option a lot because I know she can do it. But I won't tell her the truth, that's not an alternative. I want to believe that if I don't back off, she'll see I'm not lying and won't attack me. And even if she tries, I just run away, I'm closer to the door and there's an armchair between us.

"But it is what it is!" I shrug.

“Stop it!” she screams. “Stop lying, Marnie. Everyone. Everyone knows you're lying, so why don't you tell the truth?” she waves her hands through the air.

“Because there's no other truth, Leah. Will I have to draw it for you?” I make the same moves she does.

“Be my guest!” she sits on the couch. I sigh wearily. I haven't slept for hours, I'm angry with myself and the world and now that I thought the situation was resolved and I just had to go on with my life, she comes and messes everything up.

“Why are you here?” I stay upright.

“I do not know! It must be cause you went crazy and disappeared without saying anything. Didn't answer my calls, no one had any answers about what was going on. So I took my father's jet and came to resolve this situation and I don't leave here without an answer at least.”

In the same way I laugh at Noah, I laugh at her, thinking it will fix everything. Leah carries the same expression as her brother, neutral, mocking.

“Why did you break up with Luke?” she asks quietly.

The mention of his name makes me shiver. I notice how my stomach turns and try to ignore it. I wonder if I can subtly extract some information from his state, but I don't want her to think I still care about him.

"Cause I wasn't in the mood anymore." I shrug, walking through space.

“My God, you've actually lied better.” I glare at her. “You know you're in trouble here, I know you better than anyone. I know you are lying and that you are going through some difficult situation. I even have my theories. So you're going to have to work a lot harder to trick me or get me out of here.” she cracks a smile, feeling victorious.

"Oh do you have? What are your theories?” I mock her.

“The first is that you really freaked out with amnesia and you can't handle it. The second is that you can't handle your feelings about Luke, it happened once before. And the third is that someone put some shit in your head and made you believe that everything would be better if you were out of the way.” I feel her gaze burning into me, looking for any reaction.

I let out a laugh, not forced, nervous that she got it right. Leah raises an eyebrow.

“You really traveled on your theories. Sorry, none are right.”

As if by magic, the answer appears to me. The only way I was going to get rid of everyone and go through with the plan without a hitch was to make her hate me. Make everyone hate me, just like I did Luke.

Just considering their hate for me makes my heart ache. But I need to do this. For Luke. For the boys. It's for their success.

“You know, a few months ago you were asked to be in a movie and you didn't take it cause you said you were a terrible actress. Isn't that right?” she gets up again. “Noah told me you said you were doing this for Luke, because you loved him. Marnie, what are you trying to hide?” she comes closer.

I feel dirty because of the attitude I'm going to take. It's low, very low, but I need her to hate me.

"Look who talks about hiding." I give a cynical laugh. Leah looks at me confused. "Don't you have anything to tell too?" she still doesn't understand. “You and Kyleen?”

Hastings freezes. The bitter taste of my act starts to fill my mouth. I’m sorry, Leah. I’m so sorry.

“How do you know?” she takes a step back.

"Who do you think closed the bathroom door on Ash's birthday?" I raise my eyebrows.

“Is not the same thing.”

“It isn’t? Aren't you hiding something from all of us?” I force a smile like hers a few minutes ago.

“No! Cause I'm not pushing everyone away, I'm not telling lies. And if you asked me, I would tell you the truth. Deep down, you know why I didn't say anything. You know my dad hasn't accepted Noah yet, that this is a problem in our family, and you know he wouldn't accept me either. You know that deep down I'm trying to protect both of us.”

“Oh! Do I?” I debauchery more. Right now, I feel horrible when I see your eyes water. I'm so, so sorry.

“I know what you're trying to do and I'm not going to stage it.” she walks past me to the door.

"Didn't you want to talk? I am talking.” Leah turns to me, straining the knife I carried in my chest, letting me see her crying face.

“You're trying to make me hate you.” now I'm the one who freezes. She laughs. “See how I know you? You are very predictable, Marnie. And as much as I know of your intention, I will not allow you to reach your goal. I hope that one day, not too far away, you realize what a big shit you're doing.” she opens the door, going. “Oh, and before I forget, since it's meant to hurt. Congrats, since your little chat with Luke, he's been locked in his room, needing Michael to keep an eye on him.” so Leah slams the door and strikes the final blow.

I bite the inside of my mouth, letting the tears fall. Honestly, I didn't even have the strength to hold back anymore. The rage burning inside me gives way to pain. I imagine Luke locked in his room, lying on the bed, hating me. Hating what we had and what we thought we had.

I walk over to my suitcase, pulling out a package, with the photos I'd taken from the box and the little white box he'd given me. I open it, holding the necklace with his name on it, the one he gave me.

Even knowing what I had to do, I wouldn't get rid of this necklace, I don't have the courage. It was easier to buy an equal one and put it in his hand. What he did to me would be kept with me forever.

““Closed eyes.” he fights.

"I have my eyes closed." I rebate. “Lucas…” I chide him, when I feel his lips on the back of my neck.

“Sorry, I got distracted.” I hold back the urge to laugh. “Closed eyes.”

"If you say it one more time, you'll get hit." I threat.

"How, if you can't see me?" right now, the urge to hit him is so strong that I follow the sound of his voice, trying to kick him. “Hey! No rudeness, otherwise you'll be left without a gift.” the false authoritative tone makes me angrier. “Good girl!”

“Go!” I kicked.

I'm startled by the icy touch against my neck. It's a necklace. Eagerly, I touch the pendant, recognizing the shape. He didn't do it.

“You can open it.” his hands move to my hips, hugging me.

With my eyes open, I run my vision to my neck, finding there a necklace just like his but blue.

“Happy Birthday!” he drops a kiss on my cheek.

I hold the blue quartz, seeing Luke's name engraved on the back. I let a stupid smile spread across my face, glaring at my boyfriend with the same.

"Want to explain why we're wearing practically identical necklaces?"

“It's a little obvious. Couples wear rings and I know what a problem you have with rings.”

“It’s not a problem.” I try to defend myself.

“It's just Alzheimer's. You know, in some people, it starts before they're 70 years old.” I hit him, and he laughs, before he hugs me. "Like I was saying, I know you're not into wearing a ring, so since I already had my necklace, I thought you'd have yours. That way we'll always be close to each other's hearts.” I rest my hands on his shoulders, standing on tiptoes.

"Have I told you I love you today?" I whisper, moving closer.

“Not after 5 pm.” he pouted, looking at the clock on the wall.

I don't know how I managed to kiss him with such a stupid smile on my face.

“Why do I like you, huh?” I question, stealing a little kiss.

“Because I'm cheesy and romantic. And even if you deny it, I know you get attached to it.” he opens a victorious smile.

"Don't ever say 'get attached' again." I beg laughing.

"What is it, bae? That was awesome.” he laughs.

“No!” I scream, laughing.

"What is it, babe girl? Don't you stick to my way of get in?” he keeps teasing me.

I place my lips on yours, determined to shut your mouth and thank you that it works. My mental reminder of “we're late for dinner” evaporates when his hands reach under my shirt. I scratch the back of his neck, pulling him closer.

“We're late for dinner.” he says against my mouth as I start to unbutton his shirt.

“Just say the traffic was like hell.” I suggest kissing his neck.

Luke accepts the idea, picking me up and walking me back to the bedroom."

It's not hard to know that we were late for dinner that day. But I didn't care, I had been given a necklace with his name on it, a necklace that showed how our relationship was getting more and more serious.

I also realize that the two times I got this necklace, at least once I ended up in bed with him. In fact, in both, but only one made it to the end.

“I hate myself.” I say tiredly, going to the minibar to get anything containing alcohol that makes me forget everything.

I call the front desk for two bottles of champagne and the biggest snack they have. I pick up the small whiskey bottles, turning one after the other, as if they were shot. I shake my head, wanting the effect to start faster.

“I hate myself. Leah hates me. Kiki must hate me now too. Just like Noah and everyone else there. Everybody hates me.” I turn the last one over, shaking my head once more. “Luke hates me. Hates me too much.” I comment, hugging the pillow.

I pick up a Polaroid of ours, staring at our happiness marked there. What am I doing?

I throw my head in my hands, lost. I wonder what might happen if I crawl into bed and don't go out for the rest of the month. Probably more people will hate me, but who doesn't hate me now? I mean, just get in line.

Awakened from the thought, when someone knocks on the door. For a second, I wonder who it was, then remember I ordered room service. I walk to the door, feeling the weight of the six small bottles.

My stomach churns and I feel an overwhelming urge to vomit as I land my eyes on the redhead in front of me. Red-haired?

"Bethany?"

[boop-le-snoot]

masterpost ☀️ main masterlist ☀️ taglist

previously on...

Chapter 5. We have stucky, we have stevesambucky friendship, we have a new place to live and strange being a good guy because tony definitely ranted at him. Also, we're beginning the creepy part of the plot. I have decided that sam will be one of the main platonic characters in this story because I love sam.

fun fact: I used to be a creepypasta writer! Going back to my roots here, hehe.

Things had stated changing, for better or worse, much sooner than I had been prepared for - but was anyone, ever, really ready for the next big step? Certainly not me - the view that greeted me after I'd finished my shift at Jeremy's was peculiar and unexpected, so I froze, eyebrows high at the two super-soldiers parked, once again, illegally, right in front of the entrance door.

"Hi, doll," Bucky was reclined against his boyfriend comfortably, his bike standing a pace behind Steve's, who nodded companionably, a sheepish grin on his face.

"G'day," I nodded, eyeing them warily. "I think I know where this is going..."

"No, no, nothing like that," both men frantically waved their hands around, Steve coming up close to approach me slowly. "You're not in trouble. I came out here to say thanks," giving a sappy look to the grouch that was his boyfriend, Steve reached into his pocket and handed me a slip of paper. "Just, uh..."

"Those are our phone numbers. Don't hesitate to give either one of us a call if someone bothers you," Bucky took over the stammering blonde, shaking his head at the soft blush that blossomed on the good captain's face. The brunette wrapped an arm around Steve's shoulders with a shy smile of his own. "Or if you, I don't know, need someone to carry your groceries or something," he snorted. "The punk wouldn't leave it alone until we came out personally to thank you, the sap."

The laughter bubbled up from my chest as I grabbed and pocketed the paper, throughly amused and at the endearing gesture. "Sure, thanks."

"And, uh," Bucky's eyes briefly looked to the side. "We'd appreciate if you keep the status of our relationship to yourself for now. We're not, like, officially out yet."

I froze in place, mouth falling open. Surely they were aware that anybody with a functional pair of eyes could see that they were much more than 'good, lifelong friends'. "No problem, guys. Lemme know if anyone gives you shit about it though, this place," I gestured to the café behind me, "is strictly paparazzi and homophobe-free."

Steve's grin grew even more genuine. "Yeah, we heard all about it from Tony and Stephen. Said 'twas the only place they go these days."

I wasn't aware of that. "It's the paps, isn't it?" I remembered Tony's remarks.

Bucky shook his head, the metals of his prosthetic arm whirring as it recalibrated. "Not only. The public hasn't had the best reaction to a man goin' out with a man," the brunette looked away to the side, where Steve's face had fallen considerably. "And Tony's an eccentric rich man. We're jus' two soldiers. The US Army won't be too happy if we... Came out," both men were crestfallen yet determined.

I had a hunch nothing would be able to separate the two - seeing as not even seventy-odd years and brainwashing and ice couldn't keep the captain and his sarge apart, I doubted that a few government weasels could successfully do the job. Even so, it was unpleasant, to say the least, to see them deny themselves something that technically was perfectly fine in the 21st century.

I chewed on my lip, gathering my wits. "I've clocked out, I can tell you this as a friend- as a person. You don't owe the army jack shit. They do not own you, you are your own person that they experimented their German knockoff steroids on. Respectfully, fuck that shit." I firmly stated my opinion, figuring that there should have been at least someone that told Steve that he is more than his star-spangled uniform and giant metal frisbee.

The blonde scrunched his eyebrows together, fingers gripping onto his belt until the knuckles went white, the hard line of his jaw set firm.

Bucky laugh took me by surprise. "Agreed, doll. I'm too old to be hiding in back alleys and shit," he clapped on his boyfriend's shoulder. "Although I'm happy enough with just not going to prison for bein' in love with this idiot."

"Jerk," Steve's responding pout was downright adorable now that I knew the circumstances surrounding their relationship.

Which wasn't exactly surprising. As a barista, I knew my fair share about my regulars' love lives, their jobs, their kids. The tea was almost always piping hot. "Bye, boys," I smiled at them warmly, throwing a glance at the time, adjusting the strap of my bag for comfort. "Stay outta trouble!"

Steve scrambled for his bike, having noticed my pointed gesture. "Sorry, didn't mean to hold you back. There, I have a spare helmet," he gestured behind him. "I'll give you a ride."

"There's no way in Hell I'm getting on that death trap!" I shouted cheerfully, walking briskly towards my second job, hiding a laugh in the warmth of my scarf as two very offended motorcycle-loving gay fossils sped past me, making truly incredible amounts of noise. Good for them.

Odette was content to let me rummage around the bodega without showing herself more than necessary, taking her appointments and doing- well, witch stuff, I guess, only coming out to poke at the various jars for ingredients.

"Star, I have a proposition for you," right before closing time, Odette's voice filled out the store with its low drawl. "A good friend of mine owns an apartment building, not far from here actually, and one tenant recently moved out. It's a safe space for those who are different," she enunciated the last word, fixing it with a pointed stare. "She's not overly fond of total strangers coming to live there. The rent is reduced and the apartment itself is slightly bigger and more fashionable than yours..."

"Where's the catch?" I found myself interrupting her. I wouldn't lie: the reduced rent and increased size of the apartment did interest me, as well as the probability of a kinder, more involved landlord. My current one was - not the best, but such was life in the NYC.

"There are a few rules to follow, rules that might seem strange at first but they'll make sense in time. And your neighbors might be also a little... Unusual," Odette carefully studied my face for any signs of displeasure.

I sighed.

And then I sighed some more as I was signing my new lease in a few days' time, having spoken with Porter, my new landlord, and his boyfriend who had claws and fangs- after so much time spent around Odette's, I didn't even blink. The couple liked me enough to extend a secure but flexible offer and some furniture to choose from the attic where they kept the spares.

I quite liked the large, vintage couch I placed next to the wide bow windows in the living room. The floors were hardboard and well-kept, the walls a nice, homely shade of green and Porter didn't mind any new holes in them that might arise from hanging up decorations. I scheduled a thrift crawl at the next possible opportunity, happy with the "good employee" bonus Odette had given me after I sealed the deal.

My stuff was boxed up, a sleepless night and a call to a begrudging Jeremy to have a couple of days off to move; I was, thankfully, not late on my schedule and all that I had left was to rent a car to move the boxes of my things and the few pieces of furniture I had decided to keep - my haul in Porter's attic had been incredibly rewarding and my new apartment had all the basics to make it look like a warm, inviting bohemian home in a while.

My phone rang suddenly, startling interruption to the romcom I was watching as I ate my last lunch in my old apartment. "Hello?" I answered the number without looking.

"Hi, doll," Bucky's voice rang out cheerful. "A little witch told me you were moving. I thought you might need a hand?"

I blanked momentarily, the thought of enlisting two very busy super-soldiers to haul ten boxes and two endtables worth of stuff not having crossed my mind at all. "Is this the moment when you stop by my house just to unattach and put your prosthetic arm somewhere and leave?" I asked, hearing distinctive snickering - several more people were with him.

The cheer in his voice blossomed into a full belly laugh. "You're funny," he teased me. "And thanks for the idea. But no, I have a room full of men that have nothing better to do but get on my nerves. Might as well make 'em useful," his accented drawl thickened the more we spoke. Muted cheers rang out in the background.

"Uh, sure," who was I to look a gift horse in the mouth? I rattled off my address and warned them I didn't have a car, after which Bucky assured me it will be taken care of. The last remaining knick-knacks packed away, I went down to take out the trash, and returned to four people standing in front of my apartment building, all except one unrecognisable in their civilian clothes. "Hello," I waved at them, side-eyeing the tallest, grumpiest man of the bunch.

Stephen Strange was there, looking around curiously, hands in the pockets of his plain grey hoodie. I had already forgotten how normal he looked without his robes, and, frankly speaking, I preferred him like that. His title and the attire that came with it were quite intimidating.

"Hey there," a dark-skinned man who I recognised to be the Falcon, raised his hand. I had not met him yet. "I'm Sam, Sam Wilson. You must be the Star we're helping?" His quick once-over and the tilt to his lips; the ease with which he flirted had me brandishing smirks of my own. I led them all upstairs, Stephen's silence being just so loud. Sam, however, had no such reservations. "So, you're a witch, right?" Wow, subtlety was his middle name.

"Yes, I'll show you my broomstick," I deadpanned, wiggling my eyebrows at him with a grim look.

"Woah woah," Sam raised his hands as the three men behind us snickered loudly. "What happened to 'how are you? let's have dinner sometime'?"

I did my best imitation of an evil cackle as I let them through my front door. The four newcomers looked around my nearly empty apartment with muted interest before zeroing in on the pile of things in the corner: a few pieces of furniture and nearly taped boxes. Should be a walk in the park for four men.

A hand on my arm pulled me from the stupor of observing Sam, Bucky and Steve act like a well-oiled trio, bantering and teasing each other as they discussed how to best move the things.

"Look," Stephen Strange had all the appearance of a chastised puppy. "I wanted to apologize for my behaviour that day. I was out of line," the low notes in his voice made the appearance of the apology being somewhat reluctant. Tony probably put him to it after our little burger run.

Irregardless, I wasn't looking to make any enemies. "Me too, I was under stress - not that I'm using it as an excuse," to give where it's due, I nodded at the sorcerer, immediately awestruck by the easy, boyish smile that stretched on his lips.

"You are strong," he added. "If you would like to learn our ways, we would welcome you." There was a spark in his eyes, something belonging to man that respected and collected knowledge. My own respect for him grew immensely just from that one thing.

"I'll think about it," I offered amicably, however, I still leaned heavily towards a negative answer to that particular proposition. I liked my current way of life.

Strange's grin made a momentary second appearance, until Sam's voice rang loudly: "Fire in the hole, Wizard-man," causing the former to groan loudly and look at me.

"Think about your new place for a second," he spoke, briefly touching out fingertips. As soon as that was over, a golden circle with my new living room on the other side of it appeared quietly, Strange's hands immediately going back into his pockets after that. I sighed and pointed the men into it, stepping in a second after. The sorcerer wasn't far behind. "You could learn that, too, you know," he added wryly, having seen my look of mild envy directed at him.

"I think I'll be good with having the 'pissed off the sorcerer Supreme and lived' pass for now," I retorted with an eyeroll, turning around to stare him down.

He had the decency to look somewhat sheepish, at least. "I'm not like my predecessor," his words were chosen carefully. "And, to be honest, I have no clue as to why your... Boss is so hostile towards me- us," Strange looked around the room before unceremoniously beelining for the couch and plopping down on it.

"Not to be a gossip," I started, slightly intrigued. "But Odette and some lady she called ancient had mad beef," I slipped into casual language easily, trying to recall the details of Odette's, quite often jumbled, stories. "Sounded almost like territorial disputes," I shrugged. "And the apprentices Odette took on before me found themselves in all kinds of compromising situations," I chewed on my lip. "Like the Arctic."

Strange rubbed his face with a noisy groan, large hands doing nothing to mask the resignation and slight embarrassment.

I focused on the thin, red scars on his hands - they had to have been something serious, the way slight tremors betrayed the deteriorating state of the nerves in his fingers. I frowned, quickly averting my gaze before he could catch me ogling him. The fact thag Stephen kept his hands in his pockets or covered by gloves at all times didn't go over my head.

He muttered something to himself, something that sounded like he was often forced to clean up his predecessor's mess. "I see," was the only thing he'd offered me, looking slightly pitiful and apologetic.

"Well," I started, noting the last of my stuff was about to be in its rightful place, "as long as you don't toss me into the ocean, I think we can coexist peacefully."

"Tony would kill me if I'd tried," Stephen groused.

"Probably," I agreed. "Considering the fact he hit on me, for you, it would make one hell of a lover's quarrel," my hand pointed towards the kitchen as Steve and Sam carried in the boxes aptly labeled "kitchen", looking around a place to put them down.

"Tony did what now?" Stephen's tone dropped, a wry smirk decorating his lips as he eyed me through his lashes.

"Don't ask me," I raised my palms, feeling my eyes widen. "He's chaos personified and Satan only knows what he's got on his mind."

That squeezed a laugh out of the tall man, followed by a fond, sappy smile as he looked out of my large, panoramic window, probably thinking of Tony himself. There was no doubt, Stephen Strange was utterly and throughly head over heels in love with Tony Stark. Good for them, good for them.

"A-and that's it," Bucky walked in, wiping his hands on a kitchen towel I'd provided them earlier. "I took some liberties and assembled the furniture, Steve is stacking the dishes as we speak," the brunette noisily plopped down next to me, arm carelessly thrown behind me on the back of the couch.

"Oh, um," I stammered, unused to such random gestures of kindness. "Thanks a lot, you saved me a day's worth of time and a backache," I smiled, scooting over to make some room for Sam.

"No problem, not like we had anything better to do than argue which part of the Lord of the Rings is the best," Wilson rolled his eyes, elbowing Bucky none-too-gently.

Bucky elbowed back, thus starting a horsing war between the two, causing me to scoot closer to Stephen as I attempted to avoid any flailing limbs; the sorcerer and I shared an identical, perplexed sigh as to how two grown men could easily bait each other into such juvenile behaviour.

Whatever. It was kind of endearing.

Steve emerged from the kitchen dusty but smiling, having heard the commotion, and quickly herded his guys into a semblance of decent behaviour before all of three of them left, leaving me and Stephen to go back to my old apartment and give the keys to it to the guard. That was done, too, and a portal from an alley behind my old building straight into my living room had me and Strange awkwardly hovering, saying out goodbyes and waving to each other as the golden circle rapidly shrunk in size and disappeared, golden sparks scattering across my living room carpet for a short second before they fizzled out, too.

I used the brief moment of respite to find the small piece of paper containing the rules Porter had insisted I read and take seriously; figuring it might be a good idea to give them a read before beginning to unpack, I popped open a bottle of soda, holding the itemized list written in neat cursive to my face.

The further I read, the further my eyebrows rose:

"1. Keep your door locked at all times.

2. If a person knocks on your door claiming to be the mail man, do not open the door under any circumstances. You are free to ignore the knocking - it only lasts a minute or so. After the person has left, you may open the door and check for any packages.

3. If Samantha from 3B visits you and asks you to babysit, you may do so at your personal discretion. Her twins are a handful and their daily habits are not for the ones with a weak stomach, however, they mean nothin ill and will not harm you in any way.

4. Do not use the elevator between the hours of 1 and 4 AM.

5. There are no apartments under number "7". If someone claiming to be from those apartments knocks on your door and requests entry, come up with a polite excuse to decline and send me a text message. I will take care of it.

6. There is no garden on the premises of this building. If a man approaches you, claiming to be a gardener, don't interact with him and simply walk away. He will leave you alone.

7. You may meet a girl in a polka-dot dress playing in the hallways or in the stairwell. This is Lucy. Always be polite to Lucy - you won't like what will happen if you're rude to her. She does not talk but she knows limited ASL and may request to visit you. Allow her in ONLY if you have fresh meat in your fridge (beef or mutton, preferably bloody). You might want to avoid seeing her eat, however, it might be very beneficial to make friends with Lucy. She knows a lot of things.

8. If, when taking the stairs, you encounter inconsistent numeration of the floors, such as floor 2 followed by floor 5 and etc, simply walk a flight back. It will sort itself out. The building is old and sometimes it gets confused.

Important notice: these rules apply to your guests as well. Please make sure to introduce and educate them on these matters. We will help as much as we can should a situation arise but ultimately, there are fates far worse than an untimely, however swift, death.

- Porter and Lance."

A slow, creeping dread began to gnaw at my nape, curling on like a cold snake deep in chest. As if laughing at me, the warm, welcoming embrace of the green walls and the toothy, wide smiles my landlords had given me encouraged my recently found sense of adventure, all of it mixing into a cacophony of exhilaration and unease, equally steadily driving my running brain insane.

I sighed again, immediately going to the box containing my altar and the rest of the protective items. So much for peace.

Taglist: @couldntbedamned @mikariell95 @letsby @sleep-i-ness @toomanyrobins @mostly-marvel-musings @persephonehemingway @schemefrenzy @lillsxd @bluecrazedandbeautiful @slothspaghettiwrites @xoxabs88xox

[nothingbutfangirlsmut]

Roles Reversed

Pairing: Gally x Reader

Requested by: @youtemptressyousunshine

“hii! could you please do a piece where the reader was in gally’s place in the first movie, and they were the one who was stung + killed chuck + speared by minho, and gally’s on Thomas’ side like in tst and tdc. so like in tdc reader see’s Gally and everyone else outside the wall in the crowd, while reader is geared up and takes them back to Lawrence, and they have the whole reunion thing? thank youuu, you’re an amazing writer and i love your stuff”

Thank you for the wonderful request! I hope it’s what you were looking for! I did really enjoy writing it either way! (I couldn’t think of a better title for it lol)

Female Reader takes the place of Gally in the series while Gally sides with Thomas. Just a one shot! Enjoy!

Outside the city walls was just as chaotic as usual. The massive crowd of WCKD's forgotten filled the streets. Jasper started shouting his new speech through the megaphone as the van we were all on slowly drove towards the blockade. Andy sat next to me on top the roof of the van. Both of us in our full riot gear. At this point in my stay here I'd gotten use to this attire and the usual speeches Jasper liked to give to hype up the inhabitants of this massive hovel. As we drove slowly down the sand covered road I spotted a familiar face in the crowd. My heart sped up as I looked straight at Thomas. The greenie from WCKD's maze. He was unknowingly staring right back at me. My full face mask kept my face hidden. As we drove past I saw Newt, Fry, and.. Gally.

"Holy shit" I whispered.

My heart thumped in my chest as my brain and thoughts were propelled back to the last time I had seen them. The last time I had seen Gally.

—

My heart shattered into a million pieces as I watched Gally turn his back on me. He followed Thomas and the others into the maze. Everything we had been. Everything we had told and promised each other was gone. It was like none of it meant a damn thing. Len patted my shoulder softly then started walking back to the homestead with the handful of boys that decided to stay. I continued to stand there staring into the maze. The group could no longer be seen. They turned the corner out of sight. Part of me hoped this was a bad dream or some horrid prank. Any second Gally would pop back around the corner looking at me with his big puppy dog eyes and his ridiculous eyebrows and say it was all just a bad joke. He'd say he loved me and he could never truly leave me.

As the minutes ticked by I knew I was kidding myself. He was gone and he wasn't coming back. He'd chosen his side. He'd chosen that idiot greenie over me. Over the person he'd spent the entire past three years with. A shudder ran down my spine as a griever shrieked from somewhere behind me.

"Shit" I gasped.

I turned back towards the homestead to see the boys looking around frantically.

"Get inside! Get in the homestead!" I shouted as I started to run towards them.

Each of the boys made it inside but as soon as I reached the door a pain like no other took over my body. I fell to the ground as my body convulsed. Every limb and nerve was set ablaze. Images flashed through my mind at lightening speed.

WCKD. Thomas. Teresa. Water. A test.

I screamed as I rolled onto my stomach. All the memories flooding my brain had me clawing at the grass to get back to my feet. I had to stop them. They'll never survive. I clenched my teeth together as I used all my might to stand.

"(Y/N)?" One of the boys questioned from behind me.

"She's been stung." Another boy said.

I growled from somewhere low in my throat as I took off running towards the maze. I have to stop them. I can't let them leave. They can't leave. He can't leave. I ran faster than I ever had before as the burning under my skin continued. I can't stop. I gotta keep going. Keep running. I don't know how I knew where to go but I made every turn without a second thought. I came to an area that seemed to be where the others had been. A single spear laid on the ground covered in blood. I stepped up to the concrete wall in front of me. There was no surprise in me when the wall lifted opening up a path. Two dead and squished grievers laid before me. I stepped over them without a thought. I could see the light of my exit. I knew I had to be close to them. I pushed open the door into a brightly lit hallway. I immediately turned to the right then started jogging.

I stopped in front of a door for only a moment. I knew this was it. I pushed it open. Only a few steps inside I found a few dead bodies. One of the ones closest to me had a small pistol in their hand. I picked it up then held it tightly in my hand at my side as my body started to shake. I slowly walked around the corner.

"Over here!" I heard Chuck's voice before I saw them.

A searing pain went up my neck. Stop them. I have to stop them.

"No!" I shouted as I stepped into view of them.

The whole group turned to face me. I kept my eyes trained on Thomas. This was his fault. All of this is his fault. He helped them put us here. He didn't deserve to be alive. He doesn't deserve to get out of here. I won't let him. Kill him. Kill Thomas. I shook my head trying to clear it. I can't kill him. I'm not a murderer. Kill him!

"We can't leave."  I choked out as I fought my own thoughts.

"We did, (Y/N), we're out. We're free." Thomas said as he raised his hands slowly.

I faintly heard Gally's voice say my name. I twitched as another burning sensation took over my chest.

"Free?" I choked out as I tried to stretch my neck.

The burning was increasing as it moved slowly up my neck. Kill him.

"You think we're free out there? No. No, there's no escape from this place." I told him as hot tears stung my eyes.

Kill him. I shook my head again. No! I won't! Shoot him! Shoot him!

"(Y/N), listen to me, you're not thinking straight. You're not. Now, we can help you." Thomas spoke as he kept his arms raised.

Kill him. I shook my head.

"Just put down the gun." Thomas begged.

Kill him.

"I belong to the maze." I cried as I raised the gun pointing it straight at Thomas.

Kill him.

"Put down the gun." Thomas repeated.

Kill him now!

"We all do." I pulled the trigger.

Only a second later I was suddenly gasping for breath. What happened? I stumbled backwards as I looked down. A spear. There's a-

I dropped to my knees as I tried again to get air into my lungs. It didn't hurt. Not like it should have. The burning took over my entire body as I fell limply to the floor. My vision started to blur but I could make out the outline of someone running towards me. They dropped to their knees in front of me. They seemed to get close to my face. I couldn't tell if they were speaking to me or not. Everything had went quiet. All I could hear was my heart struggling to beat but it was still beating. Large rough hands grabbed each side of my face slightly lifting my head off the ground. The next second I felt soft, wet, and warm lips pressing against mine.

Gally.

I tried to will myself to speak. To kiss him back but I knew my body was no longer under my control. I was nothing but a disembarking passenger just waiting for the train to finally stop. I felt the hands leave my face in a quick jerk. The outline through my blurring vision looked like he was being dragged.

"Gal-" then everything went black.

—

I leaned over so I could whisper to Andy. He immediately leaned closer to me.

"New comers in town. They're immunes. I know them." I told him.

He pulled back most likely to look down at me through his mask. He nodded then hit his fist against the roof of the van. The vehicle stopped immediately. The both of us climbed down. Andy went to the driver to tell them what I had just said. When he came back to me he had two other men with him.

"Let's find them. Henry and the others will wait to grab them." Andy told me.

I nodded then started to walk with the slightly older man to find my old friends. It took a few minutes but I finally spotted Newt and Fry quickly followed by Gally. Jasper and Rick went around the mob of people to follow them. Andy and I kept our distance behind them the best we could. We had to keep shoving people out of our way which seemed to attract Newt's attention. I saw him nudge the others. Fry and Gally turned around. My heart skipped a beat when Gally looked right at me. He hasn't changed a bit.

We were only a few feet from them when they got to Thomas. The alarm sounded as warning for the guns. Andy and I stopped in our tracks.

"They're not seriously about to open fire." I said in disbelief.

A second later all hell broke loose. Bullets and explosives rained down as people ran in every direction. There was nothing we could do. Andy grabbed my shirt dragging me behind him. We ran as fast as we could back to the meeting spot for the vans. When we got there both vans were parked and waiting. To my surprise Thomas and the others ran straight into the small square. We didn't hesitate to start grabbing them. Andy grabbed Thomas throwing him into the van. I grabbed the back of Gally's shirt to guide him into the same van. Jasper tossed some girl in then all three of us climbed inside closing the door behind us.

The drive was quicker than usual back to base. It was unusual for us to pick people up like this but the others knew if they were inmunes we needed to save them. When we pulled into the run down building I jumped out first as Andy and Jasper ordered our three captives out of the van. I moved to stand a few feet away as I watched them find their feet. The other van pulled in then Alex was thrown from the back only to have some man jump on top of him. He punched Alex as he screamed for some girl. The girl we had taken ran over to him with her arms raised. The man was fine the next second.

"Everybody relax! We’re on the same side here!” I shouted.

The whole group turned to look at me. The look on Thomas’ face as he pulled himself from Andy’s grasp could only be described as completely annoyed and pissed off.

“What do you mean the same side? Who the hell are you?” He asked me harshly.

I sighed as I let my gun fall to my side. I took in a deep breath then pulled off my mask. I turned to look straight at Thomas.

“Hey greenie” I said softly.

All the boys looked completely shocked and even a little terrified. My eyes moved to Gally who was looking at me like I was a real ghost. In his eyes I might have been. To me all I saw was my happiness in a person. I had never been the same since he left me in the maze but now I understand why he chose to leave. I couldn’t blame him. I couldn’t resent him. I still loved him. I always had. It’s always been Gally or no one.

“(Y/N)?” Thomas questioned in disbelief.

My eyes stayed on Gally like there was no one else in the world. I wanted to run to him. Tell him how much I missed him. Tell him that I love him. Tell him how stupid and sorry I am. Instead of a loving moment with Gally I was suddenly being lifted by the front of my shirt. Thomas held me tight as he held one fist back ready to strike. The fire in his eyes was being held back. I could see the hesitation. He wanted to hit me.

“Stop! Stop!” Newt yelled coming to stand next to Thomas.

Thomas panted as he glared at me.

“She killed Chuck.” He said through clenched teeth.

“I know. I remember. I was there too. I also remember she was stung and half out of her mind.” Newt told him.

Thomas glared at me even harder as a tick started in his jaw.

“Just calm down.” Newt said softly.

Thomas huffed but let me go. He stepped back running his hands through his hair. I took a moment to take in each of their faces. Fry and Newt looked stunned. Thomas looked pissed. Gally mostly confused but also stunned.

“How? How is this possible? We watched you die.” Newt said in bewilderment.

A sudden rage washed over me at his words.

“No, you left me to die.” I corrected harshly.

Gally softly said my name sucking all the anger right out of me. I turned to face him again. He visibly gulped then took a step towards me. That was all I needed. I ran straight to him as the overwhelming need to feel his arms around me consumed me. My body hit his with a thud. I wrapped my arms tightly around his neck as his arms wrapped around my waist.

“Gally” I whispered into his neck.

“Holy shit (Y/N). I never thought I’d see you again.” He said softly as his arms tightened around me.

I pulled back so I could look him in the eyes. I grabbed his face with both my hands.

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I should have went with you. I was so stupid.” I cried.

He smiled softly down at me. My heart lifted at the sight.

“It’s okay (Y/N). None of that matters now. We have a second chance. I mean if you want it.” He said hesitantly.

My mind, body, and soul soared higher than ever before. I crashed my lips into his making him chuckle. He kissed me back with the same force. His soft warm lips felt like a dream. A dream I’d had so many times but never thought would come true. Yet here we are.

“Of course I want that. I’ve never stopped loving you.” I told him as I pressed my forehead against his.

“I never stopped loving you (Y/N).” He whispered.

—

Requests are open!

—

[justanotherdreamer12]

Misunderstanding

Authors note: HI everyone.. I'm new to this as you can see... Therefore please read with an open mind and heart.. Just a random thought that took a form of a short story.

Pairing: SeungcheolxReader

Summary: Joshua wanted to talk to the girl who would always sit next to the window on the far corner of the Cafe and Seungcheol was just trying to be a good Friend.

Genre: Fluff and Flirty

Word Count:

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"Where do you think you are going?" Seungcheol asks the shadow that was moving ever so softly and carefully behind him in order to not get sighted by anyone.

"Out." Joshua answers, huffing softly in frustration of getting caught red handed.

"You know we are supposed to head in for practice right now right?" Seungcheol asks raising his right brow, his leader side kicking in.

"I know. I won't be long. I'm just going out to grab some coffee." Joshua answers.

"At the cafe near our agency?" Seungcheol asks him.

"Yup. You want me to get you something?" Joshua asks the leader.

"Nope. Enjoy your coffee and your view." Seungcheol teases.

"Wah-what? What view?" Joshua stutters.

"Yah we all know about your coffee and the view. Seriously how long do you plan to keep it up? Just talk to the girl already!" Seungcheol laughs.

"It's not-I was not." Joshua tries to explain only to be interrupted.

"Well if you want the coffee you better hurry up so that you're not late for the practice. And while you're at it talk to the window girl." Seungcheol laughs.

"It's not that easy." Joshua mumbles under his breath. "I'm leaving."

"Yeah okay. Be there on time for practice." Seungcheol reminds.

"Yeah I will." Joshua nods. Just as he was about to walk out the door, it opens to reveal their Manager walk inside the dorm.

"Going somewhere?" The manager asks looking at Joshua. Seungcheol who was about to go inside in order to gather his member pauses, confused to find his manager here.

"Yes hyung, for some coffee at the cafe near the agency." Joshua answers.

"No you can't. You need to come with me." The manager shakes his head.

"Where hyung?" Joshua asks confused.

"The studio. There was some problem in the part that you recorded so they want you to come and record it once again." The manager explains.

"Oh okay hyung. We can stop by the cafe on the way then." Joshua nods.

"No time to make stops we need to get there soon." Their manager shakes his head adamantly.

"But hyung it won't even take 10, no 5 minutes." Joshua tries to convince him.

"The PD is already waiting for us Joshua." The manager tells him, adamant in it.

"But hyung.." A whine escapes Joshua's lips.

"Seungcheol can buy your coffee for you." The manager says turning to face the leader, "Right?"

Seungcheol who was surprised by his name being called out could only mumble a, "Me?" Seungcheol looks at Joshua who gives him defeated look. "Sure I guess." He shrugs.

"There now that's done. Oh also Seungcheol while you're there buy some cakes for you and the boys. My treat." The manager says quite pleased with himself.

"Sure hyung." Seungcheol nods. He could hear the thundering of footsteps coming towards him, no doubt his members all ready for practice.

"Hyung, we are ready." Mingyu tells his leader.

"Manager hyung, what are you doing here?" Jeonghan asks, noticing his manager standing near the door with his best friend.

"Oh I had some work with Joshua. Heading for practice?" He asks them to which they all nod. "I can drop you guys there get inside the car parked outside." The manager instructs and with a cheer of not having to walk to the agency the members all rush outside.

"Hyung, you don't have to." Seungcheol tells the manager.

"It's okay. I planned to that's why I got two cars. Now let's head out." Saying this the manager walks out. Seungcheol and Joshua walking behind him and the older of the two pats the younger back in assurance. Joshua gets in the vehicle with the manager and Seungcheol in the car.

Seungcheol gets down at the cafe and the car moves towards the agency with his members. Sighing he pulls in his mask as he enters the cafe that was surprisingly empty except a few customers lounging in the chair enjoying their warm drink. He turns towards the counter to place his order when a girl with h/l h/c hair wearing a simple white shirt and blue faded jeans with a pretty face walks past him. He couldn't help but turn to get another look at the girl and finds her sitting in a table furthur away from the room and near a window.

"Can I take your order?" The waitress pulls his attention to her.

"Uh yes." Shaking his head he walks closer to the counter to place his order.

"One coffee and 10 of your finest pastries please." He places his order.

"To go or to be eaten here?" The waitress enquires.

"To go please." Seungcheol answers pulling out his wallet and pays the bill.

"Please wait for two minutes." The waitress instructs him and turns around to get his orders ready. Seungcheol looks around the cafe to pass the time when his eyes find the girl sitting near the window once again. He didn't know what it was about the girl but he couldn't keep his eyes off of her. Her appearance was strangely familiar like he had seen it before. He thinks hard drilling his mind to recall a memory when it hits him, he had not seen but heard a description of her appearance from Joshua.

She always sits at the window farthest from the cafe. When you look at her you can't help but want to keep looking at her with her, h/c h/l hair, smooth fair skin and e/c eyes that you can get lost in. She always orders the same drink, hot chocolate with 5 marshmellos on top! And when she smiles it just lights up the whole Cafe!!

Seungcheol looks down at the cup of hot chocolate though he couldn't see clearly he could make out the distinct features of marshmellos floating on top. That's the girl, Joshua's view, he thought. He wanted to text his member about her when he realizes that he would be busy recording and shouldn't bother him. He was satisfied with just teasing him which he would now more than ever since he got a look at the girl and even he had to admit that she was indeed pretty.

He couldn't help but contemplate, because knowing his friend it would take him a million years to approach the girl first and say hello, he could already imagine the countless musing he would be subjected to as his friends suffers from being unable to talk to the girl and so he wanted to help him. But he didn't want to overstep his bounds and cause trouble for Joshua by interfering in his personal matters. But then again if he didn't do anything his friend might just remain stuck forever.

"Here's your order sir." The waitress pulls him out his thoughts handing him a box filled with pastries and a cup of coffee to go.

"Thank you." He bows in gratutute and turns to walk out the door when something stops him. His instincts holding him in place, telling him to take the step which will help not only his friend but also him and so he turns around and makes his way towards the girl sitting in the farthest table of the Cafe before he can second guess himself.

"Hello." Seungcheol approaches the girl, trying his best to not startle the girl. The girl looks up at him with her big e/c eyes.

"Hi." The girl smiles widely up at him, surprising him with how easy and alluring it was.

"I'm sorry to disturb you but could I have a seat here?" Seungcheol asks the girl.

"Seat?" The girl looks around at the almost many empty seats around them. "Sure." The girl nods, slightly curious and amused.

"Thanks." Seungcheol bows slightly before taking the seat. He puts down the coffee cup and box of pastries as the girl gets back to reading the book in her hand. He can't help but stare at the girl in front of him. He could clearly see what attracted Joshua about her in the first place. Her soft looking skin, bright e/c eyes and the most alluring smile he's ever seen. The girls aura was open and friendly which would pull anyone in.

"Did you need something?" The girl asks him as she finds his eyes in her.

"Huh?" Seungcheol was very confused by the abrupt question.

"You kept staring at me so I wondered if you needed something from me." The girl answers, straight forwardly.

"No, I mean yes. I wanted to ask no more like tell you something." Seungcheol stutters out.

"Oh and that is?" The girl asks him.

"You are really beautiful." Seungcheol blurts out the first thing that comes to mind. "I'm not hitting on you or anything. I don't want you to misunderstand." He tries to explain without wanting to embarrass himself furthur.

"Yes. I won't misunderstand." The girl tries her best not to burst out laughing, not wanting to embarrass the male sitting in front of her. "I am a little pretty right?" The girl couldn't help but tease the male in front of her a little.

"Saying it's little is too modest of you." Seungcheol blurts out and could feel the blood rushing to his face when the girl bursts out laughing.

"Thank you. I know I shouldn't be laughing but you really surprised me." The girl manages to whisper out.

"It's okay. It was too sudden right I don't know why I said that either. I'm sorry." Seungcheol says scratching behind his neck, embarrassed.

"No you don't need to apologize. It's nice to hear someone complimenting me and actually mean it. It was really nice." The girl reassures him with a bright smile that gets his heart racing a mile every second. He shakes his head trying to pull himself together, the action so sudden that it surprises the girl.

"Are you okay?" The girl asks worried now.

"Oh no I'm fine." It was now Seungcheol turn to reassure the girl.

"If you say so. Won't it be better for you to remove the mask? It might make you feel better." The girl suggests pointing at his mask.

"Oh? Oh right." Seungcheol nods realizing and pulls his mask down his face causing the girls e/c eyes go wide in complete surprise. Seungcheol looks up at the stunned girl and realizes her struggle. "Oh right I forgot to introduce myself. I'm Choi Seungcheol. It's nice to meet you Miss?" He enquires.

"R-right. F/N L/N." The girl introduces herself.

"It's nice to meet you F/N-ssi." Seungcheol smiles widely at the girl and raises his hand for a handshake.

"Please just F/N. No need for formalities." The girl says shaking his hand.

"Very well then. Also please treat me as you did before. No need for formalities." Seungcheol nods taking his hand away but already missing the girls warmth. "Actually there is a reason that I approached you today."

"Reason? What reason?" The girl asks confused.

"Actually my friend, one of my members I'm not sure if you know him." Seungcheol mutters.

"I'm sure I know him. I'm a fan." The girl says smiling warmly at him.

"Oh you are CARAT?" Seungcheol asks and the girl nods. "Wah the odds of this happening are really fantastic." He mumbles softly but the girl hears it.

"I know." The girl nods still unable to grasp that her bias was sitting right in front of her. "You were saying something." The girl reminds him.

"Right. Um so Joshua has been visiting this Cafe a lot, we all visit this Cafe the coffee here is really good but Joshua more than all of us and the reason is you." Seungcheol tries his best to explain without scaring the girl.

"Me?" The girl asks confused.

"Yup. You visit the cafe every alternative days and Joshua after realizing this also visits the cafe whenever you do just so that he can get a sight of you." Seungcheol explains and watches as realization dawns on the girls face.

"Actu-" The girl starts but only to be quiet down once again as Seungcheol continues.

"I know it's kind of hard to believe but it's the truth. Joshua has developed a crush on you and no matter how many times we've told him to approach you he wouldn't. He's quite shy. I wasn't going to say anything but this has been going on for a month already and when I saw you I thought that maybe I should just help him out a little." Seungcheol explains.

"It's your first time seeing me right? I mean the girl Joshua likes?" The girl asks clearly amused.

"Yup." Seungcheol nods.

"How can you be sure that it's me? And not someone else?" The girl asks him with a raised brow, it made her look even more alluring.

"Though I haven't seen you before but Joshua has told me all about you. How you always take a seat near the farthest window and drink hot chocolate with 5 marshmellos. Also he had described you, how you have h/c h/l hair, smooth fair skin, e/c eyes and a very beautiful smile. You are just as he described." Seungcheol explains.

"Seungcheol-ssi has anyone ever told you that you could be quite slow at times? But I guess that has its charms as well." The girl chuckles slightly flashing him a bright smile.

"People do say that." Seungcheol agrees honestly when something clicks inside his head. "Charm?" Seungcheol asks confused.

"I'm saying that you are quite charming. Cute too." The girls answers honestly with a smile that just shined brighter than any star.

"Charming? Me?" Seungcheol was very confused but at the same time a warmth spread across his body.

"Yes." The girl nods but before she could explain any further her cell phone rings. "One second." Saying so she answers the call. "Hello? Oh, I'm still waiting here. I got the order also. Where are you? Are you serious?! Okay I got it. I'll be there in 15 minutes. I need to take a taxi you crazy women! Yeah yeah I'll be fast don't worry. I'll see you later." Saying so she hangs up.

"All okay?" Seungcheol asks looking at the girl curiously.

"Yup. That was my sister. I was supposed to meet her here but she changed the location all of a sudden, so I'll have to get going." The girl answers while packing her things into her bag.

"Oh okay." Seungcheol nods helping her pack and walking out with her while carrying the pastries in one hand and the other holding his coffee.

"I hope I'll get to see you again, Seungcheol-ssi." The girl smiles brightly at him as the two stand outside the door of the Cafe.

"Yeah. Me too." Seungcheol answers honestly.

"Oh right." The girl blurts out startling Seungcheol. "Let me borrow this for a bit." The girl says grabbing the cup of coffee while handing him her cup. After digging in her bag a little she pulls out a pen and writes something on the coffee which Seungcheol isn't able to read. "Here." She hands him the coffee cup before taking her cup back from his hand. "Give it to Joshua-ssi. It's the number of the girl he has a crush on." The girl instructs.

"Oh okay." Seungcheol nods dumbly.

"Seungcheol-ssi you are really slow aren't you." The girl chuckles.

"Huh?" Seungcheol was surprised by the statement.

"I'm not the girl Joshua has a crush on. It's my sister. We look quite similar so you got confused by his description. My sister is the one who visits the cafe every alternative days. She was supposed to be here today but she got held up in some work and since we had planned to meet up I was waiting for her at her favorite place and drink." The girl explains while showing him the cup in her hand.

"Oh!" Seungcheol exclaims in shock.

"Yup also tell Joshua to not be shy and contact her. She'll like it as he is her bias. After talking they can decide if they want to go furthur or not. Also S/N, that's my sister's name." The girl says smiling at him.

"Right. I'm sorry for my misunderstanding." Seungcheol apologizes embarrassed.

"Don't be. Cause of it we got to talk so it's all good. Also can I borrow your phone?" The girls asks him a little sheepish. Seungcheol nods and hands her his phone. The girl types something in before handing him his phone back. "I um gave you my number, if you'd like call me sometime. I'll really like it if you do." The girl says smiling at him. "I'll get going now. Bye Seungcheol-ssi." Saying so the girl walks away, a few steps later she turns to face him for a wave before walking away and stopping a taxi. The girl gets in and the taxi drives away leaving Seungcheol standing near the door still, stunned.

He shakes himself out of his stupor and makes his way towards his agency for practice. He walks inside the practice room to find all his members standing near the mirror talking.

"Guys I got pastries." Seungcheol calls out to his members who quickly surround him excited about the delicious treat. Jeonghan takes the box from his hand and Seungcheol walks towards Joshua. "This is for you." He hands him the coffee cup.

"For me?" Joshua asks, after taking the cup.

"Present." Seungcheol smirks at him. Joshua looks down at the coffee filled cup only to notice a phone number written on it.

"S/N. That's the window girls name. You should text her and no need to thank me." Saying so and after an encouraging pat on Joshua's shoulder Seungcheol walks away to a corner in the room to remove his jacket and cap leaving a shocked Joshua staring at his back.

"Hyung, don't you want the pastry?" Minghao calls out to the leader.

"Nope. You guys can have it." Seungcheol says pulling out his phone. There was a new number in his call register with the contact name: S.Coups No 1 Fan! He couldn't help but let out a chuckle at the contact name.

"Hyung we need to practice." Soonyoung calls out.

"Coming!" Seungcheol says as he tucks his phone inside his jackets pocket. All throughout the practice he couldn't help but be distracted thinking about the girl sitting in the cafe with the most alluring smile he has ever seen on her face, which ended up in him getting lectured by the performance units leader. But he couldn't be bothered about it as he had decided to indeed call the girl soon.

[brrdadada]

LIAR | M

Inseong x FemReader x Rowoon

Series [01]

Word count: 3559

You excitedly called Inseong that you were now nearing their dorm after your car entered the front gate. He was as thrilled as you were, you can hear it from the way he talked. Well, you've been away for 6 months due to modelling work, of course you'll miss each other. You just arrived today from New York, and since you don't have any schedule for the day, your manager let you go as you please only reminding you to be cautious of paparazzis. You decided to go straight to your love of your life, Inseong.

You got out of the car as it stopped infront of the huge building, telling your driver that you won't be needing his services until tomorrow morning and thanking him as you did so. You walked to the front door and rang the door bell. The place was a bit quiet, but it was understandable, it was 7 in the morning and you thought the boys are probably still sleeping. You were about to ring the doorbell again when the door suddenly sprung open, revealing a half naked Rowoon.

"What-" You stopped yourself when you realized it was actually Rowoon.

He looked down at you, the height difference probably being more obvious because of you being 170 cm tall compared to him being 190.5 cm tall. His eyes widened when he realized who you were, and briefly stopped drying his hair with his towel.

"Y/N?" He couldn't hide the surprise in his voice.

Rowoon was half naked, with having only boxer shorts to cover down there. Judging from the fresh smell of soap and shampoo matched with his wet black hair, he looked like he just finished getting a shower.

You quickly looked away. "You're back?" You heard him say, rather enthusiastically.

"Yes I am, but before that will you just-"

You couldn't finish your sentence because of Inseong's loud voice cutting in. "Y/N!"

You looked up and see Inseong hurriedly walking towards you wearing a plain white shirt and black shorts, holding a towel, probably briefly pausing in drying his hair with the towel just like what Rowoon was doing. As he walked towards you you couldnt resist but admire this man, momentarily forgetting a half naked Rowoon infront of you; Inseon looked so fresh and handsome; probably the side effect of not see his face for months that he looked extra good. You missed him so much.

"Y/N!" He said again when he finally reached you, engulfing you in a tight embrace.

You welcomed him in open arns. "I missed you too." You giggled as you hugged him back without giving a second thought. Giving small pats in the back. He missed you just as you missed him.

You smiled as you smell the scent of his favorite shampoo mixed with cologne you know so well. His body felt cool and his hair felt damp, confirming that he just probably did finish taking a shower too, just like Rowoon.

"Excuse me, i'm here too." You hear Rowoon grumbled.

Inseong laughed as he released you from his hug, acknowledging that his band mate probably felt uncomfortable. "I can't believe it. You know if you told me sooner I would've picked you up from the airport myself."

You raised your eyebrows. "And your license?" Remembering the news he told you that his driving license was suspended due to illegal parking and not following traffic rules.

"Oh come on." He scoffed. "That was months ago. I already got a new one."

"Well anyway, lets get inside, im freezing here." Rowoon interrupted.

The three of you head inside the house, with Inseong closing the door behind. You and Inseong continued talking, and catching up as the three of you walked through the hallways leading to what you remember is the dining room. Rowoon was oddly quiet as he stayed quiet and listened to the two of you talk, like a little kid silently listening to two adults talking.

"I'll carry that." Rowoon suddenly say, getting the small box of cake and bag of fruits you didn't realize you were holding the entire time until now.

"Thanks." You mumbled, suddenly getting awkward as your fingertips brush with each other. You internally scolded yourself for acting the way you did.

You cleared your throat. "You shouldn't be running around the house looking like that." You scolded, just like the noona you thought you were.

"Looking like?" Rowoon wondered at first then realized what you actually meant. "Well, its just us nine boys here, so i didnt think it would be a problem." He chuckled. "Right, Hyung?" He said turning to Inseong.

"Well, maybe opening doors while you're half naked isn't exactly a good idea, right?"

You turned to Inseong and raised your eyebrows, telling him to side to you. He chuckled before shaking his head and turning to Rowoon. "Come on, you should cover up." He said walking to Rowoon's side and wrapped the towel around Rowoon's shoulder, barely covering his chest, but enough to cover it from your view.

"Oh come on, its not like you didn't see all this before."

Your eyes widened at his retort. THIS GUY.

You felt your cheeks warmed up and you panicked. Did he tell Inseong? Does Inseong know what the two of you did back in New York? Your mind was about to go overdrive until Inseong's laughter broke into your thoughts.

"Well, you do have a point." Inseong said as he tried to calm himself. "Come on, Y/N, come to think of it, you already saw all of us half naked before."

You tried to distinguish what Inseong was talking about. When?

Then it clicked, it was that time when all of you went to a swimming trip, a year ago. You didn't realize you were holding your breath until a quiet sight came from your lips. God, why were you so tense. He might really suspect something at this point.

You managed to fake a laugh that seemed true to Inseong, "Yeah, right. But its still embarassing okay?" You defended smoothly.

"Pfft, look at you, your cheeks are freaking red." Inseong couldn't hold back his laugh. Teasing you was probably one of his favorite things to do afterall.

"You're so annoying. Both of you." You grumbled, while subtly giving Rowoon the stink eye. You just got more annoyed when he gave you a knowing smirk and a shrug.

"And you're so cute." Inseong said as he placed his arms over your shoulder, pulling you closer to him.

"Whatever." You tried to hide your giddiness as he pulled you closer, once again his scent filling up your nostrils. "Anyway, where are the others." you changed the topic, hoping it would mask the loud thumping of your heart and your soft expression from Inseong.

"Welcome back, Y/N!!!!" All 7 boys shouted in unison when the three of you entered the dining room. You stared at them dumbfounded. They knew? But it was supposed to be a secret you told inseong you wanted to surprise the boys.

You looked up at Inseong and gave him a look, to which he only winked his way out while flashing you his signature smile you know so well you couldn't resist. He removed his arm around your shoulder and walked towards the table. "Come on, we prepared breakfast." Youngbin said, urging you to sit down.

"Wow, thank you guys. I was actually the one planning to surprise you, but it seems I was the one surprised." You chuckled as you walked towards them, Inseong pulled a chair for you, to which you gladly accepted and sat down. He sat on the seat next to you, on your left.

"You prepared breakfast? All of you?" They all nodded with grins on their faces. "Well except Chani" hwiyoung added, which earned him a nudge from the elbow from Chani.

You grinned spotting the Avocado which was sliced in half along with its see. "And this avocado cut in half... Taeyang, is it you?" Everyone held their laughter as Taeyang sheepishly scratched the back of his head.

"Yeah..well.." You chuckled. "Its so cute. But next time let the adults help you in making it." Everyone bursts out laughing.

"oOoh who made these?" You said pointing at the familiar dish, your favorite breakfast when you were in New York.

"Oh, Rowoon made them!" Dawon said as he sat down across from you. You looked to right where Rowoon was, unboxing the cake you brought for them. He didn't seem to hear it since he looked so focused in preparing the food. He made them, knowing its your favorite..?

"So, Y/N tell us about-" Jaeyoon and Dawon started bombarding you with questions.

Everyone took their respective seats as they continued to talk to each other ocassionally teasing you and asking you questions about your time in New York. You were so happy the atmosphere was light and the room was filled with laughter as you ate together, you were thankful that you're preoccupied by their noisiness and the food, that you can ignore the awkward feeling you're keeping at bay because of the fact that Rowoon sat on your right.

"Oh, Y/N, you have something on your.. mouth.." Inseong spoke out of nowhere, so you turn towards him.

"Oh where? Wait, the napkin please." You said and Jaeyoon handed over the napkin.

"Wait, I got it." Inseong said at the same time, also reaching out for the napkin; resulting in both of you holding hands.

The two of you turn towards each other and stared. You feel your cheeks heating up again when Inseong raised his eyebrows innocently and gave you a small smile. You withdraw your hands in panic, leaving the napking all for Inseong.

You heard snorts around the table. "Oh come on guys, what's this." Dawon whined.

Inseong chuckled. "What?" He said while pulling a napkin from the pouch, then turning to you.

"Y/N.." He called out, making you look at him, your heart still raising. "Geez, you're too old for this." He teased as he wiped the left over crumbs from your lips.

"Oh come on! GET A ROOM." Hwiyoung booed jokingly to which Taeyang added, "its too sweet i think i'd get a toothache."

"What, are two already dating?" Dawon leaned forward, with a grin on his face.

You almost choked on your own spit.

"No, we're not." Inseong laughed. "I told you we're just friends." He said as he put an arm on your shoulder.

"Come on, friends don't do that." Jaeyoon whined.

"Maybe they're secret lovers."

"Ofcourse not, why would they keep it a secret?"

"Maybe because of the paparazzi?"

"Or maybe-"

"Guys. Stop." You said while removing Inseong's arm. "Geez, you're all crazy." You laughed as you continued eating.

"Yeah, i don't think noona's dating hyung. Who would ever wanna date him?" Chani commented to which earned series of snorts and laughter from the group and followed by more side comments.

"Anyway, Hyung, someone might really think the two of you are dating, you're too touchy around Y/N Noona." Chani said lazily while he munched on his food. "You should be careful or someone might misunderstand."

"Yeah yeah just eat your food." Inseong told Chani.

"Then can I date you?" Rowoon said, turning towards you. Your heart hammered against your chest, you're about to panic. You knew it was a joke. It sounded like a joke. It was only a joke, or so you thought.

"I don't know, can you?" You remarked back to which earned an oOoOhs and teases from the group once again.

"Hey I didn't the two of you were close!" Jaeyoon pouted.

"Yeah! Last time I checked Rowoon's too cold towards you." Youngbin chuckled.

"Oh come on, cold? You mean, mean." Dawon added.

"They must've gotten close when they met in New York." Taeyang said hitting bulse eye. "Didn't you two meet there? Hyung, didn't you went to New York too? For a photoshoot?"

You froze..you started to panic. No. They can't know. Inseong can't know. You were about to speak when Rowoon beat you to it.

"Yeah, we did." Rowoon said coolly as if it wasn't any big deal.

"Hey, besides Y/N and I are close too you know. It's not just you Hyung! Don't go hogging Y/N all for yourselves."

"Hey no we're not! Y/N's-"

And the topic was dropped. You felt relieved that the whole conversation continued, completely forgetting the forbidden topic, the topic you' never want to talk about. Afterall, you're so bad at lying.

-

After the breakfast, everyone gathered in the living room, planning to watch a movie. Fortunately, both you and the boys didn't have any schedules for the day, well, until evening.  All of them were bickering as to who gets to wash the dishes and who gets to choose what movie to watch. You chuckled as you watched them closely. You missed this chaotic bunch, no matter how many days you spend time away frome these boys, they'll always be dear to you, Especially Inseong.

Instinctively, you looked at Inseong who was also participating in the debate on who gets to wash and pick the movie. You bit back a chuckle, you enjoyed watching him being this loud, he's always been lively, since the first time the two of you met during uni days. Come to think of it, you two had been together for so long that you wondered if Inseong ever developed a crush on you at some point, or at some point felt that you had a crush on him.

You shook your head, nah, its impossible. Despite the way he acts and touches you, he probably doesn't see you that way. And he's too dense to even know about your feelings towards him.

You felt sad; you had high hopes at first that he'll soon come around, but by the looks of it, its not gonna happen anytime soon. Nevertheless, he's still your bestfriend. So you'll stay by his said despite him not reciprocating, and not knowing about your feelings at all.

"Okay let's settle this once and for all then!" Dawon's loud voice broke in your train of thoughts.

"Alright, hands in. The group with the highes number gets saved, then the rest gets to keep playing until one remains!"

Everyone gathered around the center of the room, but didn't start yet. They turned towards you. "Y/N, you too Miss!" They told you that it wouldn't be fun if you didn't participate. So you just sighed and walked towards them, placing your hands on top of the piled up hands in the center.

It was those dumb games when you flip your hands, its often used for deciding which group you're in. Using the palm as "white" and the back of the hand as "black" teams. But in todays rules, its down to elimination. Whichever group that has a higher number, gets to be saved. And this goes on and on until one member gets to have the only different phase of the hand.

"OoOh tough luck!"

"Hey, don't you think its unfair?"

"Looks like its your lucky day!"

"Yeah, noona's probably tired!"

You sighed, you ended up being the one to wash the dishes. Nonetheless it was a fair game.

"You don't have to. These jerks are just teasing you." Inseong whispered to you. You almost froze, but controlled yourself. He was always like this, too close..you bit your lip and try not to let any unwanted emotions slip through.

You turned to him, and smiled, positioning a gour face a little farther away as you did so to give space when you turn to him and not end up kissing him. "Nah its okay, i'll wash them. You and the boys prepared the breakfast afterall, so i'll wash the dishes okay?"

"But—"

"Its okayy" you told him, cutting him off as you stood up.

"Hey Dawon! You're mean!" Jaeyoon complained. "Then why don't you go wash the dishes instead?" Dawon fired back.

"Come on guys, Y/N's probably tired, she shouldn't be the one washing the dishes." Rowoon said adding more pressure on Dawon. Rowoon was as thoughtful as always.

"You shouldn't have let her join in the first place!" Youngbin added.

"Hey, weren't you the ones who told her that it wouldn't be fun without her?" Dawon grumbles.

"Thats because we didn't expect she'll end up as the one to literally wash the dishes." Inseong retortes back lazily.

You chuckled. "Come on, its fine. You guys go pick a great movie, okay? This won't even take a minute." You told them, then turned around not waiting for their reply walked back to the kitchen.

Honestly, you didn't mind really, and it was a good oppurtunity to breathe for a while since the whole time you were there, your mind somehow drifts off somewhere far away, only to be pulled by the feeling of Inseong's skin gently brushing against yours or his hand gently touching your back. You were always so sensitive with his touch you wondered how you managed to control and restrain yourself all these years.

Not a few minutes after you started washing, you felt a hand gently rest against your back; you smiled thinking it was Inseong.

"I told you, its no big deal. You go—" you stopped yourself when you looked up at your side and saw Rowoon instead.

"Oh, seokwoo.." you said rather quickly, not being able to hide the disappointment in your voice.

He raised an eyebrow. "You thought I was someone else..?"

"No, anyway, what are you doing here? Didn't I say that it was fine by me washing the dishes?" You told him before you continue on what you're doing.

"I was bothered so I came to help you." He wore the spare yellow gloves hanging on the wall on the right, then picked up the sponge and started helping you with the dishes.

You chuckled. "You're always so thoughtful."

"Well, i was worried. There's a lot to wash." You couldn't help but be moved. Although you were disappointed it wasn't Inseong, you couldn't ignore that him coming over wouldn't be so bad. There were a lot of dishes afterall, and you always thought Rowoon has always been the thoughtful type of person. You always knew that, by observing the boys years back, but experiencing it, him being thoughtful towards you from time to time made you soft for this baby giant.

"Y/N, You'll strain your neck if you stare at me for too long." He turned to you with a smirk.

You didn't realize you were staring at him, you felt your cheeks warm up. You looked away fiercely and resumed with what you were doing.

"You're so cute when you do that."

"Do what."

"That. Staring off into space."

"I was not staring, you dumbass."

"You were. Do you like me?"

"I was not. And no, not in that kind of way."

"In what way then?" Rowoon pushed further, he stopped in what he was doing, turning to you with a grin.

"What are you smiling for? You're such a pervert."

He his hands defensively. "I didn't say anything!"

"You were trying to say something." You grumbled not bothering to look at him.

"Come on, you're so cold." You could hear a pout eith the tone of his voice. He clicked his tongue, "considering we already fucked each other twice."

Your eyes widened, this time you were frantic. You removed the gloves and quickly rushed to cover his mouth when he didn't know when to stop talking.

"Come to think of it, that time you moaned Hyung's—"

"Will you shut it!?" You whisper-yelled at him. It was a convenience that we was slightly leaning down, enough for you to reach his face and stop that mouth of his.

"I swear to god, you're so noisy." You frowned at him. Didn't the two of you already talked about this before. It wasn't supposed to be brought up here, where everyone is here, and it wasn't supposed to be brought up ever.

"You promised." You told him, looking in the eyes.

You saw how his eyes softened as he gently removed took you hands off his mouth, taking the right one and kissing the back. "I'm sorry, i couldn't help it. You were treating me so coldly especially when Hyung was there."

You quickly retrieved your hands and looked down. "This is getting out of hand. And i'm your noona. So please stop, its not funny. I told you before, we shouldn't be talking about this at all."

"Noona?" You heard him scoff. You felt his fingers touch your chin then gently lift it up to make you face him. His eyes fiercely staring back at yours. "Who fucks their noona anyway?" He whispered.

Your mouth was agape. You were lost for words. Come to think of it, he never called you noona, ever. Not once since the first time the of you met, considering that you were even 4 years older than him, just like Inseong, who he calls Hyung. This guy..

"Now, what's this?" a voice broke out from the room. It was Inseong's.

Great, things couldn,'t get any worse.

>>

[ateezsbabie]

“ 𝘼𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙧𝙚 ”

✛ 𝘚𝘮𝘶𝘵 (10)

✛ 𝘠𝘦𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘹 𝘔𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘪

✛ 𝘛𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳

✛ 𝘔𝘺𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘺

To protect someone, a secret turned into a white lie. It shouldn't be told, for not to hurt someone.

" Why don't you understand? My life was no longer mine because of you! " Yeosang shouted without manners while crying to his mother.

" No, not that son. Please I'm so sorry, I'm just protecting you. " His mother begged as she pulled his son to a hug but Yeosang refused.

" From what? I'm so dumb of everything. You're treating me as if I'm not in my age. You're not allowing me to have sleepovers, attend parties or any bonds with my friends! I'm not your little stupid son anymore! " He argued, wiping his tears.

" Right. Dad was really different from you. " He smirked as he pushed his mother and went up the stairs.

Yeosang was a very close son to his father. When he has a problem and had fights with someone, he usually go to his father's room and talk to him.

" Dad, I'll go to Seonghwa's birthday today. Please don't tell Mom about this because I know she will not allow me to go. " Yeosang smiled as he gave his father a fist-bump.

" Yes, I won't. There are so many secrets you told me, right? So, just take care of yourself. Understand that, son? " His father muttered as he patted his son's head.

It was 11 o'clock in the evening when Yeosang sneaked at their house with his small bag. He wore a smile while walking, it was his freedom.

" This time, I'm all independent. "

He went to his friend's house, Seonghwa. In the house yard, the disco lights were already can be seen outside.

As he opened the door, he was surprised to the people dancing inside the house, drinking liquors, kissing someone they didn't even know and going with the flow of the music beats as if they're taking away their lives.

" Yo! You're late again, huh? Did you sneaked again, my boy? " Seonghwa approached his friend wrapping his hands while holding his beer to Yeosang's shoulders. Yeosang was out of his mind and shocked because it was his first time going to a wild party.

Yeosang's face was all innocent.

" I-I don't drink alcohol, Mom will surely be mad at me if I went home with that smell. " Yeosang stuttered and gave Seonghwa an awkward smile.

" Who told you that you're going home tonight? " Seonghwa chuckled.

" Come on, bud. This is once in a life time, forget about your Mom this time. " Seonghwa added as he left his friend with a bottle of beers.

" Yes, he is right. Just one bottle. " Yeosang whispered to himself, Seonghwa's words fooled Yeosang.

An hour passed, it was already midnight and Yeosang already drank too many bottle of beers. He was blushing red and intoxicated. Although he was all alone that moment, he was enjoying it himself.

" Hey. " A boy sat down beside Yeosang and caught his attention.

" Hey~ Wanna have some drink with me? " Yeosang whined.

" I'm Mingi, Seonghwa's brother. I just noticed that you're already drunk. I'll take you to my room. " The strange boy said plainly to Yeosang.

" Oh, I see. I didn't know that my friend has a brother. " Yeosang chuckled and his eyes were already shutting. Mingi pulled and guided the drunk Yeosang to his room. Yeosang was just smiling and following the stranger's steps as if he was hypnotized.

Mingi opened a room's door and pushed Yeosang's weak body on the bed.

" Spend your night here and I'll go now. " Mingi stated taking steps far from the boy.

" You know, my Mom controlled my entire life. I didn't experience everything that I should've. " Yeosang laughed with his eyes closed but his tears were already falling down.

" Hey, are you alright? " Mingi panicked and went close to the boy.

" Do you think I am? Huh? " Yeosang chuckled.

" I'm curious, let's have sex. " He added with his innocent voice as he pulled the younger's collar.

Mingi gripped himself with Yeosang's behavior. Seeing Yeosang sweating, blushing with his shutted eyes and a scent of liquors, Mingi struggled to hold his heat inside his body.

" W-wait, we don't know each other. " Mingi stuttered trying to stop the older one.

" Why? Does sex need identification first? " Yeosang smirked as he pulled the young man's body on the top of him and grasped Mingi with his thirsty kisses.

Mingi can't take it anymore so he responded to Yeosang's kisses at once. He placed his hands at the back of the elder as he put his tongue inside Yeosang's mouth. They're all wild kissing each other, grinding and humping lower regions to theirs.

" I don't know you but I was allured by your presence when I first saw you. " Mingi stated with his dark tone placing his kisses to Yeosang's ears down to his chest.

" And I was fascinated with your sweet approach~ " Yeosang moaned, gripping Mingi's soft hair.

Mingi took off his shirts and Yeosang's as well. Yeosang's sweats were too obvious that made him more hotter and made Mingi harder. And the older willfully took off his pants along with his undergarments.

Yeosang trailed touches at the younger's back with his cold fingers adding more fervours they were feeling inside as their lips continued wildly kissing each other.

Mingi finally broke the kiss. He then kneeled on top of the older, centering Yeosang's fragile body. He unbuckled his pants and unzipped it as his long and hard shaft sprung out. Yeosang was panting and it can be seen from Mingi's eyes.

" Do it. " Mingi said with his husky voice. He held and guided Yeosang's head fronting it with his erected member.

Yeosang just took hold of it and licked the tip of the Mingi's hard shaft.

" Aah~ I said do it. " Mingi grumbled sweetly, following it by pulling Yeosang's head and gripping the older's hair.

Yeosang looked up to Mingi and smiled before he took Mingi's length to the fullest. Mingi bite his lower lips as he felt the pleasures that was given by the older. Yeosang kept on thrusting himself, desiring the size of Mingi's shaft.

Mingi took off his length when he felt the tickles inside his body, a sign that he's about to release his seeds.

" Swallow it. " Mingi just smirked as his cum covered Yeosang's innocent face.

" I like it~ " Yeosang whined.

" Please put it inside me~ "

Mingi smiled as he lift Yeosang's body turning it on top of him. He lied down on the bed and grabbed Yeosang's hips.

" Put it yourself. " The younger treated with contempt.

" A-alright. " Yeosang stuttered with his angelic voice. He moved his body until his member touched Mingi's.

" Now. " Mingi stated coldly.

Yeosang groaned when he tried to put in Mingi's member to his entrance.

" I-It hurts. "

" I can't put it in. "

" You want it, right? Then do it! " Mingi shouted. He was too tempted so he rapidly took his member inside Yeosang until the older bleed.

" Aaah~ it hurts. " Yeosang tearfully whined without knowing that he was already moving his hips and thrusting his body.

" Too tight~ " Mingi groaned biting his lips.

They're moaning a mess. Yeosang's body was bouncing on top of Mingi on that position. The view from Mingi was too heaven, seeing Yeosang's face with pleasures and pain was odd.

The two were making weird and strange noises but it's because of the feeling great of their sexual desires.

The needs were full of lust. It was the night that they first saw and meet each other, and brought them in that situation. No love but a fact that they're both turned on and aroused to each other.

" I like you on that view and position~ " Mingi moaned as he kept on guiding the hips of Yeosang, thrusting the guy he just met that night.

" I'm going to cu- " Yeosang expressed his words but he finally released his fluids to Mingi's chest.

" You're making me dirty, I'll release mine inside you~ " Mingi smirked, still thrusting Yeosang's weak body as he released his seeds inside the older. They're both panting heavily as their body collapsed.

" Let's take a shower together. Shall we? " Mingi got up on the bed and went to the bathroom. Yeosang just followed the guy as if he's hypnotized again.

They did it again inside the bathroom. They're all mess now and out of their minds.

" I said stop it! It hurts. Please! " Yeosang screamed as his body bumping to the bathroom's sink. Mingi just smirked, looking to Yeosang from the mirror.

Yeosang aggressively moved his body and his hands hit the mirror to break. His hands were bleeding but he managed to pushed Mingi.

" Stay away from me! " Yeosang shouted and grabbed a piece of broken glass of mirror, pointing it to Mingi.

" You can't do it. Shhh~ shut your mouth or else Seonghwa will caught us and will be surely disappointed to you, your mother as well. " Mingi mocked.

" Don't mention my Mom! " Mingi's words triggered Yeosang. The older pointed the broken piece to Mingi's neck, he slitted the skin and Mingi was shocked. He took a step back but it was too late to escape from Yeosang's dangerous behavior.

Yeosang stabbed Mingi's chest until the younger's back leaned on the sink.

" Drink liquors, make outs, sex and kill a stupid like you were my first time doing it. "

" I bet you're honored! " Yeosang screamed and laughed hysterically. He stabbed Mingi multiple times without mercy. It was driving him crazy. Seems like it's giving him saticfactions and fulfillments.

But he slowly felt dizzy and weak, his sight was getting darker and blurry. He looked at the broken mirror in front of him, Mingi disappeared and he saw himself bleeding.

He's stabbing himself to death.

" I'm killing myself? " Yeosang chuckled and his frail body finally collapsed on the nasty floor.

Weeks passed, the police investigated the crime scene and interviewed Yeosang's mother.

" Mrs. Kang, you said that Park Seonghwa was a friend of your son which died 5 years ago with his family and your husband because of a car accident. You and your son were also there. You two were the only survivors. " The police stated.

" Y-yes. " The old lady responded trembling.

" We found your son's body at the abandoned house of Park's family. The autopsy said that he was raped and murdered. And since you said that your son doesn't have any mental illness, we're sure that he didn't committed a suicide. We're still investigating and finding the suspect. Please have patience. "

" I'm hoping that you'll find the suspect sooner. " Yeosang's mother stood up and went outside the police station.

" I'll always protect and cover you up even though you're already gone. " She smiled and wiped her tears from her swollen eyes.

" I'm sure your Dad and your friend Seonghwa were taking care of you in heaven. "

Yeosang was a traumatized patient since when a car accident of his family and friend happened.

A trauma that became worse.

It grew and turned in a worst mental disorder. He has schizophrenia and with different personalities in his every episodes. His mind created a personas including his Dad, Seonghwa and Mingi that were all just a product of his mind.

[shall-we-imagine]

Together we go. (Werewolf!Caesar Raphael x Reader *AU*)

Lol it's never late to request I'm always late to write tho

Requested: 34. "Please don't do this." + 45. "I can't imagine this world without you." From this prompt list.

Genre: Raw angst 😂💯 happy ending though cuz I’m weak

Strap yourselves in cuz this is dramatic as shit and also I’m lowkey rusty sooooo yeah 😂

(First point of view)

Everytime our eyes meet, my insides twist in guilt. I can barely hold his gaze for longer than a few seconds.

“Can we please get some ice cream first?” Caesar gives me his usual puppy eyes- aka the most effective puppy eyes one could ever encounter. I can almost see his tail wagging behind him in excitement.

I giggle at the cute nature of the scene. “Of course.”

He grins, immediately grabbing my arm and rushing to the ice cream truck. I do my best to keep up with him and not break my face on the asphalt.

It was Caesar’s first time at a theme park, and he was overflowing with happiness to say the least; he genuinely resembled a large puppy. 

Though Caesar always insists that the puppy/dog comparisons I make are only because I knew of his identity, I'm pretty sure it's way beyond the fact that he's a werewolf. Caesar just behaves like an oversized puppy, whether he believes it or not.

"Mmhm! It's so good!" Caesar's eyes widened at the sweet flavour of his chocolate ice cream. Part of me was worried he'd collapse and I'd have to rush him to the hospital, but from the looks of it, werewolves can apparently eat chocolate. "How's yours?" He smiled at me. God that smile kills me.

"O-oh, it's nice!" I took the spoon into my mouth, unnecessarily trying to prove my statement.

His stare lingered, but before I could ask him about it, he sheepishly spills out a question. "Can I..um..can I try it?" He pointed to the paper cup in my hand.

Giggling in awe, I immediately scooped up the ice cream into my plastic spoon. "Sure." I moved my hand closer to him, expecting him to take the spoon, but instead, he leaned his head closer, taking the spoon into his mouth directly. My cheeks heat up at the small gesture, and I subconsciously start looking around to make sure we haven't attracted anyone's attention.

"Oh! It's really good too! What is this one?" Caesar's eyes gleam in fascination, as if discovering a whole new world, which in a way he was. He'd already explained how strict the pack is about interacting with humans and their world, hence his isolation from the pack after violating that rule. To be with me. And there I was, refusing to give up my group's approval.

"(Y/N)? Why do you keep zoning out today? Is something wrong?" His eyebrows furrow in concern, further engraving the guilt onto my heart.

"I'm just a little tired; don't worry about it." I do my best to give him a reassuring smile, but I suspect that only made him even more worried. "Come on, let's get in line for the ferris wheel." I pull him towards the giant ride.

Caesar stares upwards, "Woah."

"You're not scared of heights, are you?" I smile.

"I've never been that high before," he points to the top of the wheel, "but it does look a bit scary."

"Don't worry; it'll be fun." I take his hand in mine, giving it a small, reassuring squeeze.

By the time we reach the front of the line, we were both done with our ice cream and were just anticipating the ride.

The blond helps you onto the wobbly cabin and climbs inside after you're seated.

The second the small doors shut behind him, the colourful cabin moves upwards, causing Caesar to lose balance. He screams and drops to the ground, curling into a ball in fear.

I softly place a hand on his shoulder, "Caesar, it's fine. It...does that." I chuckle.

His expression softens. Sure enough, he lets me help him off the floor and onto the seat, where he's finally able to take a look at the view beneath us.

His beautiful green eyes widen in admiration, "It's not scary at all. It's very...pretty...just like you." He turns to smile at me, but I immediately avert my gaze shyly.

He takes my hand in his, "I love being with you; you make me happy."

The sincere look in his eyes drew me in, and before I knew it, my bottom lip starts quivering. "I- yeah, me too."I gulp, gluing my eyes elsewhere. I could no longer hold his gentle gaze.

Silence follows for a few moments.

Softly taking place beneath my chin, fingertips guide my face towards their owner, "(Y/N)? Why won't you look at me?" His concerned gaze almost burns holes in my face.

I let out a nervous laugh and take his hand in mine, "What do you mean? I'm just enjoying the view. Look; you can see the ocean from here!"

Caesar forces a weak smile, "Yeah, it's nice."

________

"(Y/N), are you sure we're not lost? I can't hear any cars ahead of us..." After walking through the woods for a bit, Caesar starts getting suspicious about whether we're actually using a shortcut to the bus station.

Hesitation and guilt take turns abusing my mind and heart. "Y-yes, Caesar. Just keep following me." I try to control my breathing rate and calm down.

The closer I get to the spot, the heavier my feet feel, the harder it is to push myself forward. "I can't do this." I drop to the ground and pull out my pocket knife.

"What do you mea-(Y/N), what the fuck are you doing?!" His statement was cut off by his own terrified yell. He drops to the ground and tries to pull away my weapon.

Having already dug the sharp edge into my forearm, I was disappointed by how difficult it is to actually find the tracking device. "Tracking device, Caesar! They'll find us; I need to take it out!" I kick the blond away, as I continue to search through my own flesh for the tiny device. The pain was unbearable, but it wouldn't compare to losing Caesar.

Blood dripped everywhere, making it even harder to see. "Fuck." I pant.

"It's not working." Tears hinder my vision, "Caesar, get out of here! As quick as you can!" The confusion on his face screamed in my face that it's my fault- all of it. "Please..." my voice cracks.

"No, (Y/N), I'm not going anywhere without you. Who are we running from? What's wrong? You know you can tell me anything!" He snatches the knife away and stuffs it in his pocket, the blood making a mess of his clothes in the process.

I push him away with my uninjured arm, "There's no time; please, just leave." Desperation hung at every word, yet he remained unmoved.

"Get up. We're leaving together." He tries to help me up, but I pull my arm away.

"They'll track us down, Caesar! The device is still in there!" I yell. "Please, I'm begging you; just leave before it's too late." I push him again, but he doesn't budge.

"(Y/N), we either leave together or die together; I'm not going anywhere without you whether you like it or not." The serious expression on his face is one I've never seen on him before; he's determined and stubborn, and I knew it.

I shake my head, "No, Caesar, you don't understand; I-"

"Was supposed to kill me, but you felt guilty; I know." He finished my statement, leaving me in a state of shock and shame.

"How- what? You know?" Realizing his lack of resistance, I fall into more confusion, "Well...why did you follow me here? You didn't know I'd feel guilty; I could've killed you!"

"But you didn't." Smirking, he shrugs.

"Caesar, I'm serious..." I stare at him with pleading eyes.

He sighs, "Well, I figured if the person I love the most wants to kill me then that's it; that's how I go."

"You came with me knowing you'll die?!" I cry.

"Well, I had hope you'd change your mind; I knew the love I'd felt with you wasn't fake. I felt your love...And well, I dunno about you humans, but wolves don't go killing wolves they love." He chuckles. "And if you'd killed me, well, I'd still choose that over escaping. I can't imagine this world without you."

"You're such a dumbass." I laugh lightly, but my smile drops at the sight of of something hitting Caesar’s neck.

And before I realize what's happening, He is hyperventilating as he grasps his neck, eyes terrifyingly wide; if I dIdn't know better, I'd think he was choking himself.

I rip out the tiny needle from his neck in panic, but it doesn't stop him from gasping for air, drool trickling down his chin uncontrollably. His eyes start to roll back, but he seems to be trying to hold onto what's left of his conscious mind, "Caesar! Caesar, stay with me!" Sobbing, I begin to shake him violently, but it takes mere moments before he drops to the ground.

The sound of footsteps slowly approaching hammers realization into my terrified brain, "W-why?"

"Girl, he's not dead yet; he's temporarily paralyzed." Kate rolls her eyes, but a warning follows through gritted teeth, "We're making the killing easier for you, so don't make this any harder for us."

"He's not a monster..." I shake my head, desperately pleading for his life, "He doesn't even belong to a pack; he's harmless!"

"Take out your knife, (Y/N)." She warns while the rest of the hunters watch me expectantly.

I look down at Caesar, whose eyes barely held any life in them. No way is he getting up any time soon, and my left arm has already gone limp. We stood no chance. This is it; this is how we die. And it's all my fault.

More warnings follow, but my eyes spot a tall man hiding nearby; he was clearly watching the conflict unfold.

When our eyes met, he put his index finger to his lips, telling me to keep quiet, which I do. I was gonna die anyway; I have nothing to lose, listening to random forest man.

Smirking at my obedience, he gracefully spreads his hand open in the direction of the hunters.

Within a second, they all drop their weapons to clutch their head in their hands, blocking their ears like they couldn't stand a very loud sound. A loud sound you can't hear.

Eventually they all fall to the ground, hands still covering their ears. That's when the stranger decides to step out of his hiding spot.

He slowly makes his way towards me and Caesar. I don't know if it's the blood I've lost or the intense gaze of the man, but everything begins spinning before going completely black.

________

"Did you hear me?! I said shoot him!" Kate screams.

Confusion consumes my every inch, "W-what?"

"Are you deaf?" She holds up her gun, aiming at my head. "Shoot him."

I slowly turn to look at where she motioned with a slight tilt of her chin. My shaky hands were clutching a gun aimed at a terrified Caesar on the ground. "Caesar?"

"Please, don't do this." Trembling, he shakes his head. "I love you. I would never hurt you; you know that." His teary eyes were hypnotizing; I couldn't look away for a reason I couldn't explain. I just stood still- and stared.

“I...I don’t understand...” I lower the gun I knew I didn’t even have on me before.

“Please, I’m begging you.” Caesar pleads.

I observe my surroundings in utter bewilderment. The number of hunters bacame overwhelmingly threatening; I didn’t know there were that many of them. So many faces I couldn’t recognize.

Before I could plan my next move, the sound of a gun shot rips through the air.

My head snaps towards Caesar. His fear-stricken, watery eyes stare back into mine lifelessly. 

My lips quiver, as I scan his body for the wound.

Till I found it where I didn’t expect to.

Hot, thick liquid trickles down my face, blurring my vision in the process. My fingers reach for my forehead, allowing me a chance at comprehending the situation. 

I’d been shot.

As if the realization was my cue, I watch everything spin out of focus till I completely lose consciousness.

_________

I gasp, immediately shooting out of bed, almost slamming my head against the stranger’s.

“Jeez, the potion sure is quick.” The man mumbles to himself.

“Potion?” I wipe my forehead, just to see a gooey, yellow substance dripping off my fingers. It was a dream?

“(Y/N)!” I find myself engulfed into a warm, tight embrace.

“Caesar.” I breathe out in relief, giving into the hug.

“Wait! The tracking device-” Before I could fully push away Caesar, the man speaks up.

“Already planted it on a rat; it’s gone forever.” He gives a smile I could only interpret as him being proud of his own intelligence.

“I don’t know how to thank you...How do I return the favor? Ask me for anything!” 

“It’s a bit funny for you to think I’d need anything from you.” Seemingly offended, the man rolls his eyes and sips his tea.

“He’s a bit...uh...timid?” Caesar whispers to me, hinting he’d already tried to thank the man while I was out of it.

“I already put a healing spell on your arm; there will be no scarring, but I’d rather you keep the bandages for a few more hours.” He glances down at my bandaged arm.

“Thank you...again.” I nod. “A healing spell though...are you a wizard?” My eyebrows furrow in confusion.

The stranger sighs. “Surely you can’t be that dense.”

“I think that’s a yes.” Caesar looks at me in slight uncertainty.

Another sigh. “Azusa Kuze, wizard from Hinomoto, nice to meet you. Anything else you wanna butt into?” He uses a slightly high pitched, cheery voice to ensure we understood he was mocking us.

“Uh, no, we’re good I think.” Caesar chuckles nervously, scratching the back of his head.

“Good.” He diverts his attention to the huge book on his wooden dining table.

“Um, well, I guess we’ll be going now, right, Caesar?” 

“Uh, yes. Thank you again, Mr. Hinomoto Wizard Azusa Kuze.” Caesar bows.

The wizard scowls but shakes his head dismissively “Yeah, um, you’re welcome.”

The second we step outside the small cottage, we both let out breaths we didn’t seem to know we were holding. 

“Well, that was a strange day.” I state.

“Yeah.” Caesar nods. “Wanna get some more ice cream?”

I grin, “You know it.”

[ladykateofledfordpark]

When Darkness Emerges- Avery’s Confession (Part 1)(M!Avery x MC)

So I decided to write Avery’s confession myself, because why not? This will be a series of fics, to which this is the first part.

This fic was inspired by this ask, sent by @aloehasrose:

This fic is dedicated to my fellow Avery stans: @a-i-n-a-a-s-h @mysticmiraculer @flowerpowell @unicornfatty @aloehasrose @itsbrindleybinch @kingliamsbish @jlpplays1 and @lady-kato !

Tagging also @mariaoz and @desiree-0816 , my wonderful friends! ❤

Pairing: M!Avery x MC (Dawn)

Summary: Avery decides to take Dawn on a little scavenger hunt. This one, however, is a bit different than what she will expect...

Unedited.

Note: Idk if it's just me but for some reason my phonr doesn't show the gaps I put, but the computer does. So for easier reading I suggest you read this from the computer. ^-^

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Dear Dawn,

I've noticed you've been a bit more bored lately, so I have a little scavenger hunt prepared for you.

Meet me outside the building where we had our first real kiss. You know the one.

-Avery "Freaking" Wilshere

Dawn smiled at the note Avery left in her trailer. It was so like him to tease her for that moment when they first met. Looking back at it now, she made a complete fool of herself. Seriously, if she could go back in time and make it un-embarrassing, she would.

As per Avery's instructions, Dawn met him at the entrance to his New York mansion. He was dressed in his usual pink shirt, the same mischievous smile on his face. Once she stood beside him, Avery took her hand and led him to his Audi. Dawn groaned, but Avery didn't give in. He pulled her till they were standing in front of his convertible, staring at each other.

"Another one?" Dawn asked with mock exasperation. Her eyes sparked with her familiar enthusiasm, waiting for the next adventure Avery would take her on.

"You don't seem that disappointed." He observed.

"But what about the scavenger hunt?"

Avery cupped her cheek. "This is the first step, love. Once you pass this, you'll get the clue to the second one."

Dawn's grin grew. "Intriguing."

Avery prssed a quick kiss to her forehead before walking over to the other side of the car. "Let's go."

They drove past the hundreds of the skyscrapers, into more rural territories. With music in their ears, time passed much faster than usual. Dawn found herself belting out to songs, accompanied by Avery's melodious voice. They truly were a power couple, and the music industry better beware!

"We're almost there." Avery declared after too short a time.

The nerves and exhilaration immediately returned. Dawn's heart beat at the pace of the pounding music and her hands once more became sweaty. She looked out the window, admiring the green fields that were now surrounding them. A place of solitude, of quiet, was the perfect remedy for her stressful life. She wasn't dreading this, but rather looking forward to Avery's surprise. What was he going to show her?

They parked at a very remote area. Dawn scanned her surroundings as if she was a detective in a very serious mystery. Where was this place? What did this bare hill have that was so special?

Avery gently took hold of her hand. Dawn breathed in relief when she realized her palms weren't as sweaty now. The sound of rushing water reminded her of all those meditation classes she took years ago and the colorful flowers gave her hope and strength. Yes, they were up high. And sure, there was no guarantee no one was pushed off this cliff, but... positive thoughts?

She glanced at Avery, and when his eyes met hers her worry deflated. She released a shaky breath and let out all her doubt. Why was she so nervous? Avery was here, beside her, and he would always be there for her. Because he was hers, and she was his.

Huh. It was still strange to think of them like that.

"This way." Avery pulled her along, his warmth soothing all her fears. Yes, she was still scared of falling to her death, but she needed to remember. Everything. Was. Okay. It will be okay.

But her mind rebelled against her very sound logic. She looked at the ledge and imagined falling to her death. It would be painful and awfully embarrassing, but she already had a bad fall at the Vinyl awards. This couldn't be that much worse, right?

She really needed to stop thinking. This was not helping one bit.

"Um... where are you taking us?" Dawn's voice wobbled. She tried not to think about this, but her boyfriend was taking her closer to the ledge. And she wasn't ready to test for herself how painful this fall would be.

Avery's eyes met hers. They twinkled in the late-morning sun, shining him in a way Dawn never experienced before. "Somewhere secret. You'll love it."

For a moment Dawn forgot to breathe, before she remembered that it wouldn't be smart to die from her boyfriend's beauty. So, reluctantly, she lowered her gaze. "Okay."

Avery chuckled as he tightened her hold on her hand. "Don't worry, love. I won't let anything happen to you."

"Alright."

Dawn waited for him to leave, but Avery was now frozen. She frowned as she gently touched his shoulder. "Hey, is something wrong?"

Avery blushed. "No, everything's fine. I just-" he trailed off. Dawn frowned, but before she could question him, Avery started descending a narrow path. It almost seemed like he was familiar with this area, but Dawn couldn't concentrate on that fact. She was too busy holding onto a rock nearby; AKA not falling to her death.

She was so focused on this small assignment that she was surprised when Avery stopped. "Is this it?" she blurted before raising her gaze.

What she saw stole her breath away.

It was a simple waterfall, shorter than the hill itself. It looked so quaint among the surrounding hills, like a small diamond that is just happy to be part of the rough. Dawn's eyes shone as she looked at the greenery surrounding it, adding a bit more color to the rocky clusters. She breathed a sigh of relief when she saw a small pool under the waterfall. At least now Dawn knew that even if she would fall off the cliff, she could still survive.

"So this was right under our noses the whole time?"

Avery laughed. "Yes, it was underneath us when we parked. We're now on the opposite side. You see?" He wrapped an arm around her shoulder and pointed at the top of a hill.

"That explains quite a bit."

They stood there, watching the water cascading down the rocky surface. Dawn marveled at the way the water fell into the pool, sending water drops everywhere. Avery pulled her closer,  and Dawn automatically lay her head on his shoulders. She breathed in the cool air and the muscles in her body slowly relaxed. This was harmony. This was happiness.

Dawn knew this would become one of those memories she would always look back to. It was clear that this moment with Avery was one she would never forget, because everything in it was perfect. The beautiful view, the sensation of Avery's hand on hers, the comforting sounds. There was nowhere she'd rather be.

She closed her eyes. Avery brushed a loose hair from her forehead, his touch gentle and loving. "I have something for you," he whispered.

"What is it?"

Dawn knew she should open her eyes, but she couldn't. She didn't want to lose this moment, and ridiculous as it may be, she knew that once she would open her eyes everything would disappear.

Thankfully, Avery didn't comment on that. His hand continued stroking her forehead gently, in a manner so pure it was clear how much he cared. Dawn smiled, and from the way Avery's movements slowed she knew he was doing the same.

After too short a time, Avery spoke. "Open your eyes. It's the first part of your prize."

Dawn sighed. "Do I have to?" She was so calm. If it was up to her, she would live in this moment forever.

"I promise it's worth it."

She opened her eyes with a slight huff. "Fine."

Avery's eyes twinkled with so much happiness it was almost worth Dawn's sacrifice. He extracted a small not from his pocket, his cheeks now slightly pink. "Here."

Dawn carefully took the note. She read it quietly, and by the time it ended she couldn't speak.

When darkness emerges, gripping life in its threatening claws

You’re the one who takes my hand

And leads me somewhere far

Away from the hurt and the pain

Of the dark side of fame

To the light of hope, love and a new start

A place where I can be without a broken heart

"Avery... it's beautiful."

He smiled gently. His rough hand cupped her cheek, and his voice was much weaker than usual. "There's more."

Her eyes widened. "There is?"

He nodded. "But those are for later," Avery met her gaze, his eyes twinkling with something indescribable. "For now... I say we have some fun."

"What do you mean?"

He carefully took the note from her hand. Dawn stared at him, her thoughts rendering her speechless, when Avery suddenly took her hand. He zipped his pocket closed, before a mischievous smile rose to his face. "Time to go."

And then he pulled her into the pool with him. Dawn squealed as the water welcomed her, a light laugh escaping her lips. Avery grinned as he waded, then swam, deeper into the water. Dawn followed him hesitantly, but froze when she realized they were heading toward the waterfall. "Avery, why are we going there?"

His eyes twinkled. "I'm curious. Come on."

Reluctantly, Dawn followed her boyfriend. They swam till they were right in front of the waterfall, and then dived together till they reached a wall. Once they reemerged to the air, they were met with a solid stone wall. Avery chuckled as Dawn frowned at the wall. Was this why he brought her here?

"I didn't expect this wall. In movies there's always a cave behind the waterfall, but..." Avery smirked. He climbed onto the slippery floor beside the wall, laughing as his feet slipped on the stone. Dawn carefully drew nearer, and before she knew it she was standing next to Avery on a stone platform.

"So you brought me here because you thought there would be a cave?"

"I wanted to check if the myth was true."

Dawn giggled, but her laughter disappeared when Avery took her hand. She blushed, but before she could decide what to do, Avery pulled her closer. They were now almost touching, and the knowledge sent pleasant tingles through her nerves. Avery lowered his head so they're lips almost touched, his breath fanning her face. "But I also wanted some privacy."

Dawn closed her eyes as she forced a smile to her face. "Really? What for?"

His lips brushed hers. "This."

[idiosyncrasy-thoughts]

Empathy - Yvette Short Story (Part 1)

(this is Yvette's route based on Wrath's storyline; a disclaimer that i'm no pro writer; i already love yvette even though her route isn't even out yet)

Consciousness sweeps over me as I feel sand brushing against my cheek. I open my eyes to vast and vast of sand stretching to the horizon, coming to a realisation that I'm in the middle of a desert. I try to move my hands, but they are so tightly bound behind my back that struggling hurts my skin.

What the?

My ankles are tied too, and I try to recall the situation that happened before that leads me to this.

A tall figure a few distance away catches my attention. Green hair cascading down her back, Yvette's on the phone with someone. I stare at her back features, remembering that I'm kept hostage by her for the heirloom. Questions start to flood my mind.

Why does Yvette need the heirloom? Why is she working with the demons? And why does she have a burning hatred for Wrath? Pun intended.

There must be a valid reason as to why Yvette's so determined in getting my charm, right? Or else she wouldn't have fought her way until now.

The sound of several footsteps interrupts my thoughts and I turn my head to see who is it. A couple comes into my vision, stopping right in front of me. A rush of relief fills me. A rescue party? How lucky am I?

"Thank god, please untie me," I say as quietly as I can. "And don't make too much noise, that lady over there got some fire powers."

The two people seem unbothered by my words as they continue to stare at me blankly. I look at them curiously before horror surges through my body. Red veins start to appear on their skin, and their eyes expand to an abnormal length. They growl at me fiercely, probably hungry for my flesh.

And I oop-

One of them comes close enough to smell me, and I close my eyes with the hope that it will gulp me whole instead of biting my face. A quick death is always better than a slow, painful one.

"No. Don't eat her," Yvette's commanding voice rings. "I still need her alive for the charm."

The demon hisses at me but still backs away. Yvette steps in with a smile.

"You're up, sweetheart. How's the little nap?"

I push myself up with my elbow. "Uncomfortable and dirty."

Yvette bends down to meet my eye level. "Oh, you poor thing." I flinch when she reaches out to touch my face. "Relax, I have gloves on. And you have sand on your pretty face."

I stay still as she gently brushes sand off my cheek, and I take the moment to observe her facial features. I have to admit, although Yvette's supposedly the bad person, she can be nice...and gorgeous.

My breath hitches in my throat when the girl catches me staring, and a small smirk tugs on her lips. "Enjoying the view?"

"I mean, you know you're pretty."

Yvette's eyes twinkle with delight. "Mm, Wrath won't be too pleased to hear her girl saying that."

"Wrath and I are just friends."

The green-haired lady raises an eyebrow. "Friends? That's funny, because I remember you almost kissing me when I played as Wrath."

Well, that's true. But who would turn down a kiss from an attractive woman?

I stay silent, causing Yvette to snicker while she stands to pull out her phone. "That's what I thought."

Dialing for someone, she puts her phone near her ear. A few moments later, a smug grows on Yvette's face.

"Wrath, I thought you'd never pick up the phone."

Her smirk drops after a few seconds and she spares me an annoyed glance, pushing the phone near me.

"Hello?"

"Did she hurt you?" Wrath asks.

"N-No."

"Good. I'll be there soon."

"I know, I-"

Yvette quickly pulls away the phone and speaks, "There, you heard her voice. I'll give you the coordinates, but if anyone else shows up except for you, your crush dies. Bring the heirloom. Understand?"

Yvette hangs up shortly after, smirking at me.

"She sounded so desperate."

"Wrath's never desperate. Only frustrated."

Yvette laughs and tucks away her phone. "You caught me. I was called several things in Spanish that I would prefer not to translate."

"But she's coming to get me?"

Yvette pauses, and for a second, her expression is unreadable. "That's what we all want, isn't it?"

"When things are terrifying and painful, far too much to handle alone...we want someone to come and rescue us," her voice lowers slightly, her grip on her cane visibly tightens.

She's not looking at me. If anything, Yvette is looking past me, haunted by a spectre that I can't see.

My heart sinks at the sight.

She must have gone through so much suffering alone without anyone, and that's a terrifying, lonely route to walk on. Even for a bad person, Yvette has feelings as well.

Oh no, I am NOT falling for the bad guy.

"Enough of this," Yvette starts, noticing the tension in the air when I forgot to reply. "I will get that heirloom, even if I have to kill Wrath. Which will be ideal, of course."

Then, something that I would never expect myself to say slips out of my mouth. "What if...I help you get it? Minus the killing."

Surprise flashes across Yvette's face, but it doesn't last long as her stoic demeanour comes back on. "You almost got me there. But that lie won't work on me anymore. Not after you ambushed me back at that room."

"Well..." I trail off, pondering an explanation. "I was convinced me that you're bad news. But then I realise that I don't know the whole story to judge."

"And...the demons," I continue. "The amount of people who want you dead. They all sound so scary to deal with alone."

Yvette's averts her gaze to the horizon. "They do, but I got used to it...I have to."

Her eyes find mine again.

"Why, are you pitying me right now?"

"What? No, it's more like empathising with you."

Yvette laughs as if I have just made a joke, and it stings my heart. She bends down again to meet my eye level, regaining her composure.

"That's hilarious, MC, but back to business. You must want something in exchange. Do you prefer cash?" Yvette suggests, her voice becoming low and alluring. "Or perhaps a date with me?"

My cheeks burn up by her enticing offer, but I shake my head out of it, remembering my original intention.

"If getting you that heirloom keeps the both of you safe, then yes, I'll help you."

Yvette's orbs scrutinise mine as if she's searching for something; probably any malicious agendas that I may hide. When she doesn't find any, her hard gaze soften, and I find myself getting lost in her gorgeous ocean eyes; my heart thumping wildly in my chest. Why is she staring at me like that?

Eventually, I have to force myself to look away in order to breathe. "Don't look at me like that."

Yvette chuckles, pushing my hair away to caress my face. "You are something, MC."

The sound of a vehicle driving towards us breaks my moment with Yvette. All available emotions of the girl are drained, soon replaced by a hard look that she wears when dealing with serious matters.

"It's business time," says Yvette, who stands up to welcome our visitor.

I follow her gaze to a large jeep parked a few distance away. The door to it swings open and black combat boots step out. I don't have to look to know who it is, but I do anyways.

Wrath comes into view with a face full of fury, similar to the blazing sun that's rising behind her.

Yvette's eyes flicker to me, then to the demons, commanding them to hold me in place. "Don't hurt her."

The demons growl disappointedly as Yvette approaches the ringleader.

"Look who's here to save the day," the green-haired girl starts, leaning her weight on her staff. "Can't stay away from your crush?"

"Hand over MC now," Wrath deadpans, fixing her brass knuckles in place. "Or you'll regret what's coming."

"Or what? Get punched in the face? It takes more than a black eye to stop me."

"How about snapping your neck?"

Now that's just brutal.

Yvette laughs wickedly, a low rumble that sends a chill down my spine. "Your true colours always show, Esperanza. You want to play saviour, but you can't help it, can you?"

Wrath breathes out a sigh. "You're always full of shit to say, Yvette. Your enemies will get bored of your grandma stories."

A hint of annoyance sweeps over Yvette's face, and she pulls out her cane from the sand, leaving a hole in it. Without warning, she launches herself towards Wrath.

She moves too fast for a human, and her fist is aiming straight for the ringleader's chest.

My stomach sinks when I think about the consequences of Greed's fire fist in Wrath's chest; where her heart is. Please don't do it, Yvette.

Wrath doesn't even flinch, as if waiting for the green-haired girl to strike her.

"Have you forgotten, Yvette? MC's heirloom is still with me."

Yvette visibly hesitates, her fist stops inches away from the ringleader. Taking this chance, Wrath drives her knee up to the green-haired girl's stomach and bashes the side of her face.

I gasp audibly at the impact, witnessing as the girl stumbles onto the ground.

"Yvette!"

Part 2