#can you be cool with it not bein mine?

[sunnygai]

the 'fraud' allegations are so dumb. a W is a W. if sukuna kills gojo then he wins. what does it matter if he uses the tools of the body he literally stole to do it. if sukuna is alive and gojo is dead then he literally won and that's that. he took over megumi's body just for this fight like he knew he was gonna need 10 Shadows. a win is a win.

[joesheistyy]

Gorgeous

Based on the Taylor Swift song Gorgeous <33

-----

Your friendship with Joe had stood the test of time. However, after 8 years of friendship, your feelings flourished into more than just friends.

Every week, Joe comes over to your apartment for dinner. With being best friends for years, he had a key to your place and would just let himself in.

You were making spaghetti for dinner, something simple but delicious. As you cooked, you played Taylor's Reputation album over your speaker.

As the song Gorgeous came on, you heard Joe letting himself in. You were dancing and singing with your slotted spoon, entertaining yourself as you waited for the noodles to be done.

You decided to stay in your own little world, expecting Joe had a bag he could set down while you continued in the kitchen. As he walked over to give you a side hug, you were still singing.

You're so cool, it makes me hate you so much (I hate you so much) Whisky on ice, Sunset and Vine You've ruined my life by not bein' mine.

You sang to him, aiming your spoon toward his face. He just smiled, feeling slightly awkward in this situation.

You're so gorgeous I can't say anything to your face 'Cause look at your face (Gorgeous) And I'm so furious At you for makin' me feel this way But what can I say? You're gorgeous

You continued to sing, getting closer to him and trying to test the boundaries.

You should take it as a compliment That I'm talkin' to everyone here but you (But you, but you) And you should think about the consequence Of you touchin' my hand in a darkened room (Dark room, dark room)

You reached for his hand and grabbed it, bringing it closer to you.

If you've got a girlfriend, I'm jealous of her

You pointed to him with your other hand, slowly backing away from him, but not far enough that you dropped his hand. Almost like you were pulling him to dance.

But if you're single, that's honestly worse 'Cause you're so gorgeous it actually hurts (Honey, it hurts)

You jabbed him in the chest with your finger, feeling his strong chest.

Ocean blue eyes lookin' in mine I feel like I might sink and drown and die

As you set your slotted spoon down, you pointed to his eyes aggressively, then to your eyes. Then, you leaned backwards and pretended to sink and drown and die.

You're so gorgeous I can't say anything to your face (To your face) 'Cause look at your face (Look at your face; Gorgeous)

You pointed back to his face, reaching up to grab his cheeks.

And I'm so furious At you for makin' me feel this way (Feel this way) But what can I say? You're gorgeous

With your hands on his face, Joe took this opportunity to wrap his arms around your waist, testing the waters with you.

You make me so happy it turns back to sad (Yeah)

You made faces at Joe as he continued to hold you around your waist. He smiled down at you, slightly laughing at you.

There's nothin' I hate more than what I can't have (And)

You pressed your hands to his chest, and pretended to be in pain.

You are so gorgeous, it makes me so mad (Mm) You're gorgeous

As the song wrapped up, you booped Joe's nose. But even when the song was done, Joe kept his arms around your waist, smiling down at you. This kind of interaction between the two of you wasn't uncommon, but this one felt different.

The song Getaway Car played next, but you and Joe were still in your own little world. He began to lean in, and you followed.

You felt his breath fan across your face, and the butterflies began in your stomach. As he finally closed the gap, your night felt complete. Who knew that singing and dancing in the kitchen is what would finally get Joe to kiss you.

The kiss was delicate and slow, but did not last very long. If you could kiss Joe for eternity, you would.

His arms remained around your waist as he pulled away, looking into your eyes for approval. He looked nervous, but you could not be happier. You wanted more. So, you went back for more.

Joe leaned into the kiss, deepening it. As you pulled away the second time, Joe seemed more content.

"You're gorgeous. I hope it was okay that I did that," He said sheepishly.

"It's about damn time," you smirked.

Spaghetti be damned.

-----

I've had this idea for months so I hope y'all enjoyed it!!

[mustainegf]

I’ve been craving dilf Kirk!! Can you write a smut where reader has been a bit of a brat and he puts her in her place 🥹

Kirk pls me next pls Kirk pls

𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐎𝐍 ²⁰¹¹

My attitude towards Kirk lately had become very… bratty. I'd pout around whenever he had gigs scheduled and couldn't spend the whole day with me. I'd text incessantly for updates on what he was doing and demand that he answer right away. I'd been far from perfect, and deep down, I knew it.

One evening, after yet another screaming battle about his touring schedule, Kirk called me into his bedroom. The moment I came through the doorway, his glowing brown eyes snapped onto mine.

"Sit," he commanded, gesturing to the edge of the bed. His tone brooked no argument, and I didn't even think to disobey. As soon as I settled, he moved and grasped my wrists, pinning them above my head against the mattress.

"You've been acting like a spoiled little brat lately," he growled. "I think it's time someone taught you some discipline."

I knew Kirk well enough to understand that when he got stern, it often preceded something intense, and not just emotionally. He leaned in close, his lips grazing my cheek as he whispered:

"I'ma fuck you so good tonight, baby. I'll show you exactly how a good girl should behave."

Though a rebel to most people, his dominance was exactly what I needed from Kirk: for him to take control, to remind me who really was in charge.

With one smooth movement, he let go of one of my hands to jerk down my shorts and panties in one smooth motion. The cool air hit my exposed pussy, eliciting a loud gasp from me. Kirk didn't waste any time, sliding two fingers down and pressing inside of me with no type of warning at all, really opening me up for what was to come.

"Fuck, you're already dripping for me," he muttered, curling his fingers deeper. His touch was punishing.

I pushed my hips back into his fingers. His other hand slid up my spine to grab a handful of my hair and pull in a gentle but firm way. It was a sensation I loved, one that always left me whimpering.

"Kirk," I moaned, unable to retain anything. My own voice filled the room. I could feel my walls clenching around his probing digits, begging to cum even though we’d hardly begun.I

"Be a good girl for me…" His thumb found my clit, circling it in tight circles as his fingers continued their brutal assault on my gummy depths.

With a deep groan, Kirk suddenly pulled his fingers out of me, leaving me hollow. I didn't get a chance to protest as he pushed me back onto the bed again. His eyes burning, glued over my naked body.

"Now, let's see how sorry you can really get," he grumbled. Kirk shed his clothes really fast, bulge prominent in his jeans, and crawled all over me, caging me under his larger frame once he was fully nude.

"You have two choices here," Kirk growled, grinding his erection against my sensitive folds. "Either you beg me to fuck you senseless until you learn your lesson… or I'll tie you up and use you however I please."

I knew better than to challenge him further with his cock rubbing against my heat. Instead, I chose option A for the path of least resistance.

"Please, Kirk," I begged, reaching up to lace my fingers through his dark curls. "Fuck me… Show me how much you hate my attitude." There was no mistaking the desperation in my voice as my body started shaking.

An evil grin shot over Kirk's handsome features at my plea. In one move, he peeled off my shirt and bra, baring my breasts to his hungry eyes. He palmed them roughly, tweaking on my nipples until I cried.

"You want me to fuck you hard? Punish you for bein’ such a brat?" he asked, each question followed with a nip along my neckline. I could only nod frantically.

"Then say it," Kirk demanded. "Tell me exactly what you want me to do to you."

His cock beat against my thigh, its heat practically searing into my skin.

"I want you to f-fuck me, Kirk," I breathed. "I want you to fuck into me until I s-scream. Use me like the naughty girl I am." My hips bucked upwards involuntarily, needing to feel him inside me. "Remind me of what a bad brat I've b-been. Make me feel it."

"That's my girl," he praised, his voice low and rumbling. "So eager to be used properly." With that, he aligned himself with my entrance, the blunt head of his cock nudging my slick folds.

Kirk snarled, slapping my ass hard enough to leave a bright red print there.

“This is exactly what you deserve," he added, his merciless rhythm resuming. His cock pumped into me time and time again, filling me.

He stopped for a moment, letting his words hang heavy in the air, then slammed back in. "You love it. Don't you? Beg for it," Kirk ordered. "Beg me to ruin your pretty little cunt."

"P-Please, Kirk," I whimpered, opening my legs wider in invitation. "Please... Fuck me until I c-can't walk straight. I need it, I need you so badly."

With a growling grunt, Kirk rammed into me, filling me to the hilt in one smooth motion. I screamed, hooking my nails into his shoulders and clinging to him for my life.

"Yes!" I cried back, bending my spine to meet his strokes. "Harder, Kirk!"

He did so at a ruthless pace, pistoning in and out of me and his movements shook the bedframe.

"Fucking brat," he growled, accenting each word with especially cruel strokes. "Thought you could act up and get away with it, huh?"

I could only gasp and moan. The headboard smacked against the wall with each impact, the sound mingling with the obscene squelch of flesh meeting flesh.

"I'm close," I panted, and my inner muscles had already started fluttering around his shaft. "Don't stop, please don't stop!"

The dual stimulation of his cock driving into me and his fingers torturing my clit was too much. I balanced on the edge of cumming, my whole body was squeezing.

"You're gonna cum for me," Kirk ordered. "You're gonna drench my cock with your sweet juices because you need to be taught a lesson."

With one last roar from Kirk, he bottomed out inside me a final time, his length stroking that spot way deep inside that made stars burst behind my clamped shut eyelids.

I shook and screamed, trying to grip onto him for support as inner walls clenched and spasmed around Kirk. My bones to jelly and my mind to mush.

"S-shit!" I managed to gasp out, and my entire world was reduced to that incredible feeling. "Kirk…fuck."

Kirk grunted, He pounded into me a few more times, milking every last drop of pleasure from both of us before finally pausing deep inside me. He fell on top of me with a shuddering breath, his weight pressing me into the mattress.

A moment later, he pulled out slowly, letting my sensitive flesh relax, before he slid entirely off the bed. I watched him, still dazed while he cleaned himself up and then turned to me with a smirk.

"Learn your lesson, brat?" he asked darkly.

Lying there, almost immobile, I could only offer a weak smile. "Yes… yes Kirk…," I whimpered. "I’ll be good..."

[macsimagines]

what would hakkai rindou and souya do if their brothers also liked their darling

SHARING IS CARING

TW: YANDERE BEHAVIOR, MINORS DNI, MURDER MENTION, KIDNAPPING MENTION

Yandere!Hakkai Shiba

Look, Hakkai isn't the killing type of yandere. I honestly don't see him resorting to murder unless its the bad timelines, BUT this motherfucker made peace with icing his older brother during the black dragons arc and DID in fact do it in the altertimelines soooo.

Murder. Straight up cold blooded murder. The mere mention of you on Taiju Shiba's tongue already has him enraged so for him to even mention that he wants you is like signing his death sentence.

Its bloody, probably in front of you. Hakkai just blacks out after pulling his knife, and doesn't stop the stabbing until you're shreiking and pulling him off.

"I-I did it for you... I had to protect you."

Ya you're not going anywhere now. Hope you're cool with helping him and his sister hide Taiju's bloody corpse.

Yandere!Souya Kawata (Angry)

He's not happy. At first. He and smiley are twins so their whole lives they've had to share. You're probably the first thing he's wanted all to himself in a very long time.

But his brother does have qualities he lacks and honestly, with things like this it means you all can be one big happy family some day.

Souya imagines the three of you and kids that he'll love and raise and eventually he can't picture a scenario that isn't all of you. Not the Kawata Twins but the Kawata Family.

"I know it's kinda weird but he's my brother. I trust him."

Eventually relents and is later glad for it. Now with his brother helping him there really isn't a chance for you to get away.

Yandere! Rindou Haitani

He is super against it. For years. His brother mentioned how he thought you were the cutest and Rin went out of his way to keep you two apart for months.

Ran thought he broke up with you and you thought he was ashamed and embarrassed to bring you around. "Naw she's still mine. ALL mine." and "Of course not baby. I just like bein' alone with you."

You two are going to be married with the very real chance he kidnapped you and you developed Stockholm before sharing even crosses his mind.

He only relents when he knows how bad you want more. He can't risk you leaving but he doesn't want you wasting away, so he lets his brother in to give you a taste of freedom.

The older Haitani is controlling and domineering in his own right. He'll take you to clubs and force you into skimpy dresses that you hate but at least you're out right?

Makes you call him Onii-chan for sick kicks. Rin honestly hates it, but he knows all his brother is doing is pushing you more to himself.

[cupidspup]

Hello hi, don't mind me

Just needed a little self indulgent comfort today <3

I love you guys, I promise I'm working on things I just need time is all - I hope you enjoy 🩷

It's a rainy day today. Outside in the world but also for you.

You dig your face into the chest of your caregiver, his hold onto you is just right. Not too tight but just tight enough to make you feel like this just might be your corner of the universe you were made for. His chest is nothing less than perfect to rest against as your cheek pushes up against it. You let out a deep breath that turns into a sigh

It seems to be you released a breath you didn't know you were holding in.

He places his hand onto your head and softly caresses your hair. His hand is cold as always but you don't mind. You run warm and it's nice to have that little bit of coolness.

"My little lamb, my ball of sunshine. You're so good and perfect and all mine. How did I get as lucky to have such a perfect little thing like you?" He says quietly as he holds you closer, his other hand rubbing your back in slow circles.

You both love cuddles and are constantly entangled in each other. You feel the ends of your mouth curl up as you nuzzle your head deeper into him. You feel the heavy weight lift in your chest and before you know it, tears fall from your eyes. It's been a while since you've cried and usually you hate crying but today it's a welcome experience. Your caregiver knows it's one of those days so he doesn't fret when you cry.

He doesn't shush you. He doesn't invalidate you. He simply wipes your eyes and comforts you.

"There, there my little one. You'll be okay. You're doing so good for me, honey, so so good."

You chest heaves slightly as you cry and he pats your back gently. Not too fast or hard, not too soft or slow either. He's just perfect.

"I'm sorry." You say in a quiet voice, almost a quiver.

"Its okay, baby. You did your best and that's all we can ask for. I love you through it all and you're always my little lamb."

You nod and let more tears fall. It's hard to feel okay about crying and it's even harder to feel like it's not a nuisance. But it gets easier bit by bit when you feel your daddy wipe away your tears and wipe your nose with tissues.

'I'm doing good. I'm doing my best. I'm still good.'

You chant this to yourself in your head to keep you going. When you're sad like this it hurts so bad you feel it in your chest. You like to say it's your heart hurting. It's your heart having a rainy day.

Your daddy starts to gently rock you as he plays with your hair. He hums your favorite songs softly and plants only the most gentlest and loving kisses onto your skin.

First on your knuckles, then the top of your hands, then your cheeks and your nose and then your forehead.

"My sweet little thing. My little princess. My precious baby."

You tried to hold it in but a quiet whine escapes you. Nothing to complain to him or anything like that. Your heart is just sensitive today. And its hard to listen to the things you want to hear. And that's okay. It's Nirmal.

"I know you possibly won't believe me now but I promise I'm not leaving. I promise I'm staying. You're always my baby. You're my closest friend beyond just my baby. The most important thing to me. The center of my universe. I know it's hard to have such a big role but I promise I'll always be gentle with you, my baby."

Of course, hearing such poetic and kind words makes you cry more. Your daddy, ever so kind and patient, keeps rocking you back and forth. He rubs your back and keeps giving you sweet words and kisses. You clench his hoodie into your hands as you cry and bury yourself into him. It's hard but if feeling like being here in this hidden pocket of the universe is what's going to make it feel better then you'll do that.

As long as you get to keep your daddy in the center of your universe too, thats totally okay.

"I love you daddy. Thank you for bein nice to me"

"I love you too little sunshine of mine."

[adaptacy]

Can I request a Leland x reader going on a date? I feel like he would like either star gazing dates or going to get milkshakes. Or anything else! Whatever gets the write juice going thank you!!

ugh yes absolutely im so happy im getting leland requests <333 keep 'em comin!

GN!Reader, completely SFW, just Leland bein a cutie hehe <3

"Can't believe you've never been here," the brunette laughed, picking up his pace for just a few steps, enough to cross in front of you and grab the handle of the glass double-doors, opening it for you. You shot him a smile, and he dipped an imaginary hat at you as you entered the building. Leland followed you in, placing a hand on the small of your back for just a moment before he quickly pulled it away, not wanting to be too forward.

The building you'd entered was practically a pastel and neon heaven; a quaint café, with checkered floors, a bar lined with white lights, and a dining floor with purple and the closest thing to neon blue chairs. You watched Leland as he stepped in front of you again, beckoning you over to the bar.

"Best damn milkshakes in town. Seriously, you've been missing out," he laughed, hopping onto one of the black barstools and giving it a spin before planting an elbow on the bar. "You have had a milkshake 'fore, right?"

You chuckled, sitting next to him and nodding. "Yes, of course I've had a milkshake before. I don't live under a rock," you teased, looking at the cow-spotted menu and scanning the options.

"Coulda fooled me. D'you have a favorite flavor?"

"Hmmm.. Strawberry's always nice. Pretty, too."

"Oh, yeah. Mine is cookies 'n cream. Especially when they give me the big chunks of Oreo- Really hits the spot." Leland raised a hand as the waitress behind the counter looked in your direction, and she gave the two of you a smile, trailing over with a small notepad in her hands.

"What can I get y'all?" She asked.

"Uh, a cookies and cream, and..." Leland looked over to you, not wanting to jump to assumptions. Maybe you wanted to switch it up this time around. He shouldn't assume that you'd get your favor-

"Strawberry, thank you," you requested, and the woman nodded, scribbling down your requests.

"I'll be right out with that."

Leland turned his head back to you, resting his temple against his fist. "Keeping it classic. Respect."

"...You ordered your favorite too?" You laughed, shaking your head, a little confused by his statement.

"Yeah. 'ts why I respect it," he chuckled, awkwardly, and then cleared his throat. He sat up, laying his arm flat on the counter. He seemed to be thinking of something to say, and you tried to help.

"So, why are these the best milkshakes? What makes them so special?" You asked.

Leland thought about it for a moment, scratching his neck. "Well, they're super sweet, and pretty flavorful. And, uh... Just really good, I guess. You'll get it when you try it, I promise. And if you don't, I'll cover it." He grinned, and then his smile dropped, and he shook his head, his cheeks growing a small tint of pink. "I mean, I'll pay either way, I just meant-"

"Leland, it's cool, I got it," you chuckled, finding his clear nervousness rather adorable. He wasn't usually like this- he gave off a rather confident vibe, but you also didn't know him super well. You were sorta surprised when he asked you out, but you'd be lying if you said you weren't somewhat interested in him. "Mind if I ask you a question?"

Leland let out a breath of relief, and he nodded. "Sure, go for it."

"What got you into wrestling? You don't seem like a wrestler," you asked, leaning your head on your palm. He smirked, and it was only for a split second before his gaze wandered off to the side and he thought of an answer. Still, that smirk was definitely ingrained in your memory. It was a strange expression on someone so innocent, so vibrant- you wondered what it meant.

"Honestly, always been more of a football guy myself, but I got recruited by the Captain, and originally I just meant to try it out, but I actually ended up liking it quite a bit. And the schedule conflicts with football, so I chose wrestling, ultimately," he explained, still looking off in the distance as if in a different world completely. His gaze then snapped back to you, and he grinned. "You in any sports?"

"No, not me. Interesting to watch them, though. That makes a lot of sense, actually. You seem like way more of a football guy than a wrestling guy. Not in a bad way, just in a-"

"In a jock way?" He laughed. "I get that a lot. I was, actually, in football, all throughout high-school. Was a linebacker," he bragged, showing off his teeth once more. His grin was adorable, in a goofy, playful kind of way. And he grinned a lot. He was just nice to be around. Inviting, gentle, maybe a little dumb, but he clearly meant well.

"Yeah, yeah, in a jock way. I'll be honest, when Connie told me about you, I kind of assumed you were some playboy ass, but clearly you're not," you hummed, and Leland looked as though he wasn't sure how to take that. But after a moment of processing, and smiled.

"Yeah? Mkay, what am I then?" He asked, his tone playful instead of hurt.

"Hmm..." You murmured, looking him up and down. He wore a white button-up with red flowers embroidered on the shoulders, and typical southern jeans, along with... what looked like cowboy boots. You looked back up at his face, and he narrowed his eyes, curious. "You're friendly, and outgoing, but not in a playboy way. A little awkward, if I'm honest, but not in a bad way. In a cute way," you complimented.

Leland's smile looked a little more genuine, and he scoffed, his slight blush returning. "What a sweetheart," he hummed out.

"What about me?" You asked.

Leland looked you over, taking in your outfit choice, and he took a little longer to think. "Hmm... Connie told me a bit about you, too, and I kind of assumed she was just throwing people my way because she could, but I actually think she saw something. Potential, yknow?"

"Potential?"

"Yeah, like- Well, you aren't in sports, but you said you like watching them. That's one point right there. And... you like milkshakes. That's two. And you're definitely confident, from what I can tell, but... hmm.."

"...Buuuut..?" You asked, leaning a little closer.

"I think you're just tryin' to impress me," he chuckled, his eyes shifting over to the waitress as she emerged from the kitchen once more and presented the two of you with milkshakes. Sitting at the top of his whipped cream was half an oreo, and he smirked again. "Hell yeah."

"You sure its not just your ego talking?" You asked, taking a sip of the milkshake. It was definitely rich, and Leland wasn't lying- it was really good. Genuinely probably the best milkshake you'd ever had. You took another sip.

"My ego? I, uh, I don't think so. I was mostly joking, I don't mean that-"

"I am," you confessed, finding the guilt that covered his eyes cute. He really was trying his best to be a gentleman, and you had to commend his efforts. He was doing fine, but maybe overthinking things a bit.

"You are?"

"Well, yeah. From what I've heard, you're pretty popular. Plus, athletic. And attractive. 'course I wanna impress you."

Leland nodded his head, taking a sip of his milkshake. "Well, you're doin' fine in that department. To be honest, I was a tad surprised that you took me up on this date. Figured you'd have a boyfriend already, or something. Glad I was wrong."

"Might have one by the end of the night," you teased, and Leland took a second to realize what you were implying, and then the smirk made a return. And then it spread into a smile again. You really wanted to know what that was about.

"Yeah? I wouldn't be completely opposed," he hummed. "How's the milkshake?"

"Even better than I was expecting. You were right, I think it's the best I've ever had," you complimented, drinking down the sugary delight.

"What? You didn't trust my taste? C'mon now, sweetheart. Surely I get more credit than that," he laughed, taking another sip of his milkshake, seeming to not even notice the nickname he'd slipped in.

But you definitely did. And you wished you could blame your blush on the strawberry milkshake. You cleared your throat, nodding. "Well, you have my trust now. Hard not to trust a man with good taste in milkshakes."

"I'm honored. Just glad I could show this place off. Real underrated, if you ask me."

"Seeing as how I'd never heard of it before, I have to agree. Surprised to find it's not some hole-in-the-wall bar."

"You think I'd take you out to a shithole on the first date? And for milkshakes?"

"Hey, acquired taste. I'm pleasantly surprised. Take it as a compliment," you laughed, nudging his arm with your elbow, and he smiled at you.

"If you say so, sweetheart," he hummed, a little more flirtatiously this time. Right. Of course he'd noticed the blush. Would've been hard not to.

"You're still paying."

"I know, I know. Can't go back on a promise."

[fanfics4all]

Tension

Request: Yes / No Ok ok ok first of all i am obsessed with your fics. Thank you sm for my other request it was amazing. So, this time :) Can you do a daryl dixon mutual pining but like angry sex. Dom daryl ofc. Like they have this unspoken thing going on between them and reader pisses him off so he kinda confesses his feelings in a smutty daryl way @madammarvellous-blog1

Don’t be shy, request things! <3 Have a nice day/night

Daryl Dixon x Fem!Reader 

Word count: 1992

Warnings: SMUT!

PLEASE DO NOT STEAL MY WORK, I WORK HARD ON MY FICS AND IT’S NOT COOL TO STEAL SOMEONE ELSE’S WORK! 

If you want to be on the tag list for anything (My series fics, specific character fics, or just all of them) All you have to do is send me an ask and I will add you! 

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(Not my photo, credit to whoever made it!)

In the dimly lit confines of the abandoned building, everything felt electrified with tension. The air was thick with unspoken words and burning desire, and we constantly danced around that invisible wall that separated our true feelings and personas. I could feel the heat radiating off him as he glared at me, those stormy blue eyes sparkling with irritation. 

“What the hell do you think you were doin’? He growled, making my heart race. He’s always been dominating and assertive, the kind of man who didn’t just want me, but claim me. I rolled my eyes, trying to maintain my composure, but the tension was unmistakable. 

“I didn’t do anything, Daryl.” I shot back, my voice dripping with defiance. 

With one swift movement, he closed the distance between us, his presence overwhelming. It sent a shiver down my spine. His body pressed against mine and I could feel every hard muscle beneath his leather best. 

“You were reckless and could’ve gotten killed.” He hissed, breathing warm against my ear. 

“But I didn’t.” I smirked, pushing back against him, feigning innocence. I could see the flicker of raw desire in his eyes. He was losing control and he hated it. 

“Damn it!” He snarled, grabbing my wrists and pinning them against the wall above my head. 

“You think this is some fuckin’ game?” The heat from his body wrapped around me, and my breath hitched as anger and lust stirred within me. 

“That’s rich coming from you.” I scoffed. 

“You’re the one always bein’ reckless and shit.” He narrowed his eyes. 

“Better to be reckless than have a hot and cold personality.” His smirk faded from his lips, replaced by something so primal it made my body tremble. 

“You wanna know what’s cold, sweetheart? How long I’ve wanted you? How many nights I spent dreamin’ about tearing your clothes off and makin’ you scream my name.” He said, his eyes darkening. 

My heart raced as he slammed his lips onto mine, a blend of frustration and need. It was messy and breathless, tongues tangling in a passionate dance that ignited the flame burning in both of us. The taste of him was intoxication and I melted against him. Everything faded away but the way he was making me feel. 

“Tell me you want it.” He growled against my lips, his voice thick with need. 

“I want you.” I gasped. The last of his anger melted away, replaced by an overwhelming hunger. With a growl he lifted me effortlessly, my legs wrapping around his waist as he backed me against the wall, his body covering me completely. There was no more teasing, nor more attempting to drive each other mad. This was pure lust, raw and unfiltered.

“I’m gonna show you just how much I want you.” Daryl promised. His hands roamed possessively over my curves, squeezing and groping through my shirt. I let out a soft moan, arching into his touch as his hardness pressed against my core. 

“You’ve been teasin’ me for weeks.” He growled, nipping at my bottom lip. 

“Walkin’ ‘round in these damn shorts, flaunting this sexy body. You knew exactly what you were doin’, didn’t ya?” I bit my bottom lip, looking up at him through my lashes. 

“Maybe I just wanted to drive you crazy.” His eyes darkened even more than I thought possible. 

“Well, mission fuckin’ accomplished.” In one swift move, he ripped open my shirt, sending buttons flying. I whined at the cold air hitting my sensitive nipples. 

“Fuck, look at you…” He breathed, his large hands cupping my breasts, thumbs circling my pebbled nipples. 

“Gonna mark up this pretty skin, let everyone know you’re mine.” He ducked his head, dragging his tongue along the swell of my breast before drawing one nipple into his warm mouth. I tangled my fingers in his hair, holding him close as jolts of pleasure shot straight to my throbbing clit. 

“Please, Daryl… need you so bad…” I whispered, riding my hips against the bulge in his jeans. He released my nipple with a wet pop, smirking up at me. 

“Noy yet. Gotta make you beg for it like the needy little slut you are.” He kept me pinned with his body, reaching down and palming my ass, kneading it. 

“Beg me for it, baby, let me hear how badly you need my cock.” I let out a desperate whine as Daryl’s skilled fingers dug into the soft flesh of my ass. 

“Please, Daryl, need it so bad.” I begged shamelessly, too far gone to care about the desperation in my voice. 

“I’m yours, all yours! I need your big, hard cock stretching me open, filling me up until I can’t take it anymore!” He chuckled, the sound sending shivers down my spine. 

“That’s right, you’re mine now, and I’m gonna use this tight fuckin’ cunt however I want.” He punctuated his words with a sharp smack to my ass, the stinging pain blending deliciously with the pleasure. I yelped and writhed against him, my pussy clenching around nothing. He quickly ripped my shorts off but left my panties on. 

“Fuck, you’re drippin’ all over my cock like a good girl. Bet you look so pretty split open on my dick, tits bouncing as I pound into ya.” He captured my lips in a bruising kiss, swallowing my needy whimpers. His tongue pushed into my mouth, claiming me thoroughly. I moaned into the kiss, my hands fishing his hair, pulling him impossibly closer. 

“I’m gonna fuckin’ ruin you.” He promised as he broke the kiss. 

“Once I’m done with this sweet pussy, ain’t no one gonna fuck you again.”  He pushed my panties aside and pushed into my slick folds. I cried out as his fingers found my swollen clit, rubbing tight circles around the sensitive nub. 

“Oh God, yes!” I moaned, my hips bucking wildly against his touch. He worked me mercilessly, his fingers pumping in and out of my clenching hole. My wetness smeared over his fingers, coating them. 

“Fuckin’ hell, you’re so wet.” He growled. 

“Such a dirty girl, gettin’ this turned on where anyone could walk in and see what a desperate slut you are for my cock.” I could only moan, lost in the haze of pleasure. 

“Please, Daryl, I need more.” I begged, my nails digging into his shoulders. 

“I need your big, fat cock splitting me open. Fuck me senseless. Want you to fill me up until dripping with your cum!” He smirked, wickedly, pulling his fingers from my dripping cunt. 

“Beg me for it, baby. Tell me how badly you need my cock.” His fingers trailed teasingly along my slit, barely dipping inside before pulling away. 

“Come on, slut. Beg me like you mean it. Tell me how much you need my cock wrecking this tight little pussy.” I whimpered and squirmed against the wall, desperate for more friction. 

“Please, Daryl, I need it so bad! I need your huge cock fucking me so deep I’ll feel you in my throat… ruin me, please fuck me like your personal fucktoy!” I begged. He chuckled, giving me ass another firm squeeze. 

“That’s more like it. Such a good little cock slut, ain’t ya? Can’t wait to stuff you full.” He reached down and unbuckled his belt, freeing his massive dick from his jeans. His thick and heavy head was already glistening with precum. I licked my lips hungrily eyeing his impressive length. 

“Fuck, baby, you’re huge.” I purred, reaching out to wrap my hand around his shaft. 

“Can’t wait to feel it splitting me open.” He groaned as my hand wrapped around his throbbing cock. I squeezed and stroked his impressive length. 

“Fuck, that’s it.” He moaned. 

“Gonna give this greedy little hole what it needs. Gonna fuck you raw, leavin’ you drippin’ with my cum.” He promised, grinding his cock between my folds. 

“Yes, please fuck me!” I whined, my voice echoing off the walls. Daryl’s massive cock prodded at my entrance, the thick head nudging insistently at my hole. I pushed back against him, trying to force his cock inside. 

“Please, Daryl, I need it!” I begged, tears of frustration falling down my face. His hips slammed forward and buried himself to the hilt. I screamed in pleasure, my pussy clenching around his thick length as he stretched me out. 

“SHit, this pussy was made for my dick… fits like a fuckin’ glove.” He set a brutal pace, pounding into me with reckless abandon. The sound of skin slapping against skin echoed through the room, mixing with my moans and cries. 

“Take it, you filthy little slut! Fuckin’ take my cock!” He snarled, his fingers digging into my hips hard enough to leave bruises. 

My mind went blank. I was overwhelmed by the intense pleasure and pain of being so thoroughly claimed. All I could focus on with the delicious drag of his cock against my inner walls. The way he filled and stretched me so perfectly. I pushed back to meet his thrusts, my pussy greedily sucking him in with each snap of his hips. His thick cock drove into my tight cock with brutal force. 

“Fuck yeah, this pussy is mine.” He grunted, punctuation each word with a sharp thrust. 

“Gonna fuckin’ make you addicted to my cock.” I could only moan, my body surrendering to the relentless pounding. My pussy clenched around him, milking his length. 

“I’m yours!” I moaned. The wet squelching sounds filled the air, mixing with the slapping of his heavy balls against my clit. I could feel my orgasm building. 

“Please! I wanna cum on your cock!” I pleased desperately, my voice cracking with need. 

“Fill me up with your cum! I wanna feel you throbbing inside me when you blow your load!” His thrusts grew erratic, his cock piling and twitching inside me. 

“Gonna pump you full, fuckin’ breed this tight cunt. Make sure you’re carryin’ my cum.” He snarled, his grip on my hips tightening. With a guttural groan, Daryl buried himself to the hilt and exploded inside me. His thick cook erupts and floods my pussy with his cum. I screamed, feeling him cum triggered my own orgasm. He smashed his lips to mine to keep me quiet, my cunt spasming around him, milking him for every last drop as I shook in his grasp. 

Once we each calmed down from our orgasms, he set me down on my shaky legs. He looked down and my shirt and sighed. I looked down and giggled, there was no way I could go outside this building with a destroyed shirt. Daryl knelt and dug through his bag for a few moments, before standing back up and handing me one of his shirts. 

“You brought an extra shirt?” I asked, confused and he shrugged. 

“You don’t?” He asked and I rolled my eyes. 

“No, we weren’t supposed to be gone that long, just a day. Why would I bring a shirt?” He shrugged and shoved it into my arms. 

“Just fuckin’ put it on.” I laughed and took my broken shirt off before pulling his over my head. 

“Mind handing me the shorts you tossed somewhere?” He tossed them at me. I finished getting dressed and turned to find Daryl smirking at me. 

“What?” 

“You look good in my clothes.” He said and I blushed slightly. 

“You seriously blushin’ over that? I just fucked you against the wall and that makes you blush?” I narrowed my eyes at him. 

“Shut up! Man, you sure know how to ruin a good moment.” I grumbled, he pushed me against the wall once more. 

“Sorry, baby, I could always make it up to ya.” He smirked. He leaned down and captured my lips in a soft kiss. 

“Maybe later. The groups probably looking for us.” He groaned but nodded. 

“Fine, but I’m fuckin’ you again when we get back.” I laughed and shook my head. 

“Sure, baby.”

[dontyouworrydaddy]

Nothing matters more than you do

Jill valentine x gn! Reader

summary: You are Jills first priority. Always.

warning: none

gif not mine!

Jill stood at the edge of a precipice, her heart heavy with the weight of the world. The world she had fought so tirelessly to protect. But in that moment, as the chaos of the battles waged on around her, there was only one person who mattered. You.

Through the smoke and debris, Jill caught a glimpse of your figure, resolute and unwavering. The sight of you brought a glimmer of hope to her weary soul. With every step she took, the world seemed to fade into the background, leaving only you in focus.

As she reached your side, her breath mingled with the cool night air, and she looked into your eyes, the reflection of her own determination shining back at her. "You," she whispered, her voice filled with reverence, "You are my guiding light. Amidst the darkness, you are the beacon that leads me home.

You watched as she brushed a strand of hair from your face, her touch gentle yet firm, as if assuring you of her unwavering devotion. "Why, Jill?" you asked, your voice a soft tremor in the stillness. "Why do you always choose me, no matter what?"

A bittersweet smile curved her lips, and she took your hand in hers, intertwining your fingers. "Because," she began, her voice a melodic whisper, "nothing matters more than you. In this turbulent world, where chaos reigns and uncertainty lingers, you are the constant, the steady rhythm that keeps my heart beating."

Her words enveloped you, a tender embrace of emotion and vulnerability. She continued, her voice gaining strength, "When I look into your eyes, I see the unwavering strength, the unyielding spirit that makes you who you are. And in those moments, I am reminded of why I fight. I fight for us, for a future where we can exist in a world where love and compassion triumph over darkness."

The battles waged on, but in that moment, time stood still. Jill leaned in, her forehead gently resting against yours, their breaths mingling in a shared space of solace. "Together, we are unstoppable," she whispered, her words echoing through the depths of your soul.

In the face of uncertainty and danger, Jill chose you, time and time again. She chose the bond that held you together, the love that defied the darkest of nights. Because in the vast tapestry of existence, nothing mattered more than the connection they shared, the love that transcended the chaos.

As the battles raged on, Jill and you stood side by side, a force to be reckoned with. In their unity, they found strength, in their love, they found hope. And as they faced the challenges that lay ahead, they knew, without a doubt, that their connection would guide them through the darkest of nights and lead them towards a brighter dawn.

In the midst of the chaos, Jill and you found solace in each other's arms. The world around them may have been crumbling, but within the sanctuary of their love, they felt an unyielding peace. Together, they were a fortress, unbreakable and resolute.

~~~

In moments of doubt, when the weight of the world threatened to consume them, Jill's love served as a lifeline. Her steadfast commitment reminded you that you were not alone, that no matter what darkness encroached, her love would be the beacon of light guiding the way.

In the stillness of the night, Jill traced her fingers gently along the contours of your face, her touch a gentle caress that held an entire universe of unspoken words. She leaned in, her lips barely grazing yours, and whispered, "You are my reason, my purpose. In this vast expanse of chaos, you are the anchor that keeps me grounded."

Tears welled in your eyes as her words washed over you, filling your heart with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and love. In that moment, the world faded away, leaving only the two of you, entwined in an embrace that transcended time and space.

Jill continued, her voice a soothing melody that reverberated through your very being. "When I look at you, I see the embodiment of strength, resilience, and compassion. You inspire me to be the best version of myself, to rise above the challenges that lie before us. With you by my side, I know that we can conquer any obstacle that comes our way."

Her words resonated within you, igniting a fire that burned brighter than ever before. Together, you were an unstoppable force, ready to face whatever trials awaited them. And as they stood there, hearts intertwined, they knew that their love would endure, an eternal flame that would never fade.

In the tapestry of their love, they were both the artist and the masterpiece. Each stroke of their shared experiences and profound connection painted a picture of resilience, passion, and unwavering devotion. It was a masterpiece that would withstand the test of time, a testament to the power of love in the face of adversity.

As the battles raged on, Jill and you faced them head-on, their love serving as a shield against the darkness that threatened to consume them. Their hearts beat as one, their souls entwined in a dance that defied the limits of reality. Together, they would overcome, for their love was a force that transcended all boundaries.

In a world filled with uncertainty, Jill had made her choice clear. No matter what challenges they encountered, she would always choose you. Because in the grand tapestry of life, nothing mattered more than the love and connection they shared. Together, they would forge a path of love, resilience, and unyielding strength, leaving a lasting mark on the world and each other's hearts.

[beanghostprincess]

Thinking about the acrilics nail thing with fem sanji and nami and as a person who also works with their hands a lot I hate when my nails get too long (and that for me is if I look at my palms and can see my nails I will cut them) but a friend of mine loves doing nail art and I love it when she does my nails bc she makes them short bc she knows that I hate them long

So back to my fave girlies, Nami sees that Sanji is stressed and sad bc of the nails so she asks her to let her do it again, Sanji apologizes for ruining them but Nami quickly shut it down saying that it doesn't matter that she wants to try a new thing and Sanji bein the simp she is lets her

Nami goes for a short nail length and decides to try and do these watercolor effect on her nails (look it up if you don't know they're really cool) since she doesn't have a lot of space to do anything with it and it ends up looking like the ocean, Nami tried to do the all blue for her

It really could be any ocean but Sanji is crying of pure happiness and love and just overwhelmed with her gf taking into account her discomfort over her nails but also doing something to accommodate her and representing something she loves

It's really cute and Sanji goes through this phase where you awkwardly do everything without really touching anything so you don't ruin your nails but after a while she does everything normally again and Nami couldn't be happier than seeing her gf happy with something she made

AWWWWWW This is so cute. I'm sure they love spending time together while Nami does her nails!!!! It's not always sea themed btw!!! Nami is good with nails but she is not the BEST at drawing cute tiny things there, so she ends up calling Usopp (Yes I am making this lesbian Sanusona honoring my name deal with me please) bc their other girlfriend is the best artist known to mankin (I don't accept other opinions srry). And Usopp is THRILLED because now she can like. Draw little eggs. And bread. And fishes. In Sanji's nails. Like. She just has a whole set of acrylic nails that's just food-themed. It's adorable. She is the cutest, prettiest cook in the world so she has to have the most beautiful nails!!!!!!!

Please, that phase is so funny. You have to learn how to do basic stuff-- Me too. I mean. It's actually the first time I get acrylic nails and the first day is weird but tbh it's not as bad as people make it seem. But Sanji would be okay because she has shorter nails and she learns that! Wow!!!!!!! You can live normally with them!!!!!! But the first days she is calling Usopp to do everything for her bc she is scared of something happening to her nails and Nami is there rolling her eyes like "If it happens we just fix it, sweetie, don't worry".

I am sure tho that in the middle of a fight she would end up somehow breaking one of the nails and she'd be. So dramatic and angry abt it to whoever is fighting with her. Because her hands are now even more precious to her!!!! She has art her girlfriends made for her!!!!!! So ofc she is angry. The guy she is fighting laughs at her like "Hahaha ofc a girl would get so whiny for breaking her nails!!!!" and she just. Beats the shit out of him with so much pent-up anger and the fury of the gods on her side.

When the fight ends she goes to Nami and Usopp like *teary eyes* "Please fix my nails, my dearest, my treasure, please-" and Usopp and Nami complain abt her being dramatic but it's actually so cute that she appreciates their work so much.

[urrockstar-xe]

family scrapbooks - s.h x platonic!gn!reader

posted dec, 1st 2023 8:00 am

i hope you guys enjoy, thanks for bein here :)

summary: Steve has a family, even if he doesn't realize it. Reader does. use of Y/n and mention of loads of family members, i also totally played into "the steve's neglected" headcanon.

masterlist

wordcount: 1k

“You ready to face the music?” You asked, smiling in the direction of one of your close friends from the passenger seat in his car. “Oh god,” Steve groaned, putting his hands over his face while he threw his head back against his headrest, you couldn’t help but laugh at his dramatic actions.

“Y/n/n are you really laughing right now? I’m meeting your family, and it's Thanksgiving and you’re laughing???” Though as Steve spoke he couldn’t help it when a smile hit his face, a few chuckles escaping as you both sat in his car. 

A few more rounds of giggles rang through the vehicle before you both took a few breaths and looked back at each other, fighting off another fit of laughs before you spoke up. “Okay, I can practically hear my grandmother complaining about how her turkey is coming out, we should go in” 

Steve’s smile matched yours as he nodded, opening his door, his action mirrored by you as you got out of the car, leading him up to the front door of your uncle’s house and letting yourselves in.

Now of course it wasn’t much, not big and fancy like Steve’s was but all he could focus on was the laughter and talking coming from your extended family and the soft music playing from the radio.

Steve had never experienced something so cozy before and he could tell you noticed the way he tensed up, but before you could ask anything about it your mother distracted your thoughts. “Y/n, honey! Don’t you look darling! Steve, dear, always a pleasure” She smiled at Steve, her hand resting on your shoulder in greeting. Steve smiled back, “The pleasure’s all mine, Mrs. Y/l/n” 

And it was then that the meeting parade began, you set your hand on Steve’s shoulder in an attempt to keep him grounded. The day went on and as it did you noticed Steve loosen up, get more comfortable around your family, how his hands weren’t nervously in his jean pockets when he’d talk to your aunts and how he’d laugh with your uncles while passing food around the table, even playing a few boardgames with you and your little cousins to keep them distracted while your grandma set up dessert with your mom and aunts.

But as the sun disappeared, replaced by the moon and your family started to disperse into cars, leaving just a few of you around, you had lost your holiday buddy. 

After looking around the house you found him on the back porch with your grandmother, seated on your aunt Sue’s beloved old bench as she showed off one of your numerous family photo books. Steve almost didn’t notice when you sat down next to him, “Grandma sucked you into the scrapbooks huh?” You joked, earning a laugh from the older woman and a quiet scoff mixed with a laugh from Steve. 

“This is so cool, I don’t have any of these.” Steve was too sucked into the pictures of little you to see the shocked look you and your grandmother exchanged at his confession. “Not even a baby book?” You asked, Steve looked a little confused by the question though, shrugging as if he hadn’t even known what that was.

And then you got it

the best christmas present idea ever.

While your mind raced with thoughts you decided to join in on the conversations about the pictures, and the stories behind them. Neither of you really shocked at how your grandfather suggested Steve come to spend Christmas at your grandparents' house, which he happily agreed to.

So finally, after the last few ”he’s so sweet” and ”can’t wait to see you this Christmas, Steve” from your remaining family, you both headed off, going back to Steve’s to spend the rest of your night eating ice cream and watching whatever Christmas cartoon was on.

The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas was spent mostly with Dustin and Robin, both having been dragged into operation; scrapbook. 

By the time you were done, it was the morning of Christmas Eve. The past 3 years' worth of pictures with the kids and Steve, corny messages about the memories, and cute stickers alongside mindless doodles from Robin whenever she got bored, satisfied the three of you.

And so you wrapped it with your best paper, and under the tree it went, actually, it sat on your desk, until Steve came around on Christmas morning to pick you up.

All the presents you had gathered for your family were sitting in Steve’s backseat, he tried not to notice how you carefully held one box in particular in your lap.

Steve finally pulled up by your Grandparents’ house, immediately greeted by you turning your entire body to face him, impatient and giddy about the present. Steve laughed, mirroring your actions and finally asking, “So, what's with the box?” 

You had to fight the urge to laugh at how the bells on his ugly Christmas sweater jingled. “It’s Christmas” You responded, earning a head shake in response. “Yes, Merry Christmas, Y/n/n” He smiled. 

“Merry Christmas, Steve” You smiled back, pushing the box from your lap to his, Steve hesitated before carefully unwrapping the box and pulling the top off.

As the cover of the scrapbook came into his field of vision he stopped, holding the lid in his hands as he stared down at the carefully written ”Steve’s family Scrapbook” 

“Y/n-” “Open it up!” You laughed, eagerly, clapping soft and fast as he scoffed in lighthearted disbelief, taking it out of the box and not having much of a say in how you quickly took the box back, giving him more room for the book. 

He took a breath as he opened it, greeted immediately by pictures of him and Dustin, one of him Max and Lucas, and another of you and Robin that he had taken himself on your Polaroid camera. 

You watched as he flipped through the book, smiling at how in awh he was. 

“This is… this is really great, Y/n, wow” You shrugged in response, laughing when he pulled you into an awkward car hug. 

“Robin and Dustin helped,” “I know, I can tell by the handwriting and the drawings,” he laughed.

“Merry Christmas Steve” You repeated your words from a few moments earlier, happily catching how he flipped through the pages numerous times. 

Steve looked back at you, a more calm and genuine smile on his face. 

“Merry Christmas”

[nero-onlooking-archive]

I'm a big fan of demon hybrids having animal traits in the sense they're technically demon traits but plenty demon designs are based off animals to some degree, and I'm a biology enthusiast. So here's some of mine:

-Neros demon arm in dmc 4 is a result of his body trying to protect him. Similar to scaring, because he got attacked by a demon and it's noted he thought it was infected his body's immune response to being expose to demon (germs? Fluid? Breaking of the skin in general?) Was to basically activate his DT form in that one area likely to stave off infection and or prevent future damage. Again like scarring in humans. My supporting evidence is in DMC 5 Neros demon arm has changed to look like his according DT trigger. This is not to say DT forms are basically trauma, but that as a bodies defensive measure is less stable and functional the younger you are. Bc most of your bodies resources are going towards growing and hormones.

- Dante eating pizza with like almost all toppings could reasonably be backed as being because be it just using his guns or taking a DT form it's gonna be quite physically taxing. Carbs provide energy, it woukd realistically burn a ton of energy to do things like shapeshift. (You could make a case of this applying a similar way to V where functionally being split in two (6 counting Gryphon nightmare shadow phantom) means vergil was already running on fumes and Urizen just got most of it hence he still needed the qliphoth fruit for power. But also why even when eating it afterwards Vergil is still basically on equal footing as Dante. It basically just got Vergil at a healthy...everything. and it may be why Griffon Shadow and Nightmare weren't merged back in as well (yes symbolism obv but lemme support it with this) because the fruit was like a extreme multivitamin griffon shadow and Nightmare would be akin to like overdosing on vitamins. (This is also why Neros arm is basically in a DT state in dmc 4 but otherwise his DT is like a shadow. It's a lot of energy so this is his bodies closest thing it can manage due to energy but i wouldnt rule out age too as Dante had no issue going full DT at 18) this may also be why Nero can have his DT arms out without transforming fully into a DT form but also may just be bc he's 1/3rd demon

- Urizens form having so many eyes is a result of him still getting some of vergils trauma bc ptsd shows up as hyper vigilance/more activity in the brain.

- Neros DT form in dmc 4 and 5 both has downward horns akin to vergils dmc 3 DT form but also they are wing like in a way that reminds me of Credos Angelo form (esp in the chest) and his chin spikes are like Dantes DT form in 5. I think this is like half formed by genetics half formed by experiences in a way bc of those details. this also explains despite being idential twins dantes and vergils DT forms are so different. (Dante will never say it but he wishes his wings were also an extra pair of hands this is because he could eat more slices of pizza at a time)

- yknow how in some ways horns make cooling off easier because it pulls an animals blood out of their body through said horns to be cooled and then go back in the body? Dante and Nero can use this to cool off but Vergils broken horns don't allow this.

- bc Nero has more of a reptile/raptor motif and Vergils is more on the fish side with fin mentions I interpret this as Neros scales are made of kertaine like hair and Vegils are made of Dentine like teeth.

-until Nero regret a human arm his DT formed arm shed. This normally doesn't happen for Dante and vergil but that's bc theyre not in their DT forms 24/7.

I ALSO THOUGHT THE SAME ABOUT NEROS ARM!!

I always thought that the reason why dante never got carpal tunnel from pulling the trigger of ebony n ivory sm is because his body would heal it before it got a chance. Vergil's horns could also be broken because his internal body temp is MUCH higher than his kin, and therefore that xtra heat in his hosts is still being vented despite how broken they are?? idk.

[fallloverfic]

TGCF donghua Season 2, Episode 11 thoughts

This episode was amazing alkdjlada. Spoilers for the book and donghua below.

Ah Fangxin in the coffin T-T Xie Liannnn... It's interesting they're... setting up for Hua Cheng's birthday? O.o Are they that confident they'll get to that (please be that confident, please!!)? Or just thinking "we get this in while we can in case there isn't enough"? Or just explaining why Xie Lian isn't getting out? It's a pretty (and sad) scene. And another Xiao Mengyou scene!! I'm so grateful for all the time we get alkdjaldj But also sad to think of how Lang Qianqiu thinks of him after saying all friends are false T-T

Xie Lian is so sad T-T Hua Cheng trying to comfort him. They're so cute together T-T Hua Cheng holding back so hard from hugging him.

Xie Lian destroying his statue T-T And then worrying about saving people. Hua Cheng wanting to say Something and being like... no we do what gege wants. Always.

Distracted by Xie Lian's poofy sleeves. I'm a poofy sleeves girl 4ever.

I'm a simple woman. I just like Hualian walking around together. Bein cute. Chattin. Saving people but not being in danger.

Xie Lian giving the "don't put me on a pedestal" speech T-T Love it so much. Hua Cheng being like, "yeah but idc, I'm right, you deserve to be there, no matter what others say". This man put a ring on it long ago, he ain't goin back. He Knows Things, Gege. He Knows. Things. Even more things you'd rather he didn't :/

Xie Lian's heart going doki doki

Sorry the eye swoosh made me laugh aldkjaldaj WHO ARE YOU SAN LANG TELL HIM alkjdaldkjal

Shi Qingxuan T-T And Xie Lian is so happy to see Wind Master :3 His bestie :333

Feng Xin lookin sexy with his spirit bow. I've loved spirit bows since I was like 6, okay???? I know, Fall coming out with the Hot Takes TM of "spirit bows are cool" aldkjaldaj For more Hot Takes TM, like "I just love Hualian", read more alkdjalj

Hua Cheng yoinking Xie Lian behind him made me laugh so hard alkdjalkdjaldja YOINK A GEGE

Xie Lian's FACE alkdjaldaj "omg" aldkjaldja There's a line from tagteamme's wonderful Mobei-Jun/Shang Qinghua fanfic AN IDIOT'S GUIDE TO A HAPPY MARRIAGE that describes a flabbergasted/upset Shang Qinghua as a "wronged chicken" and that's all I can think of here alkdjaldaj

AND XIE LIAN JUST GOES WITH IT ALKDJALDJA I LOVE THEM ALKDJALJ

Shi Qingxuan and Feng Xin confused at The Gay: ???

Hua Cheng: -satisfied smile- Yes he is Mine

Shi Qingxuan subtitling this book: "Good intentions can easily be misinterpreted when passed around. Better to start with bad intentions, and they'll believe it!"

Feng Xin not compelled by the Gay Married Couple. He protecc Dianxia. He left and failed so many times to do just that, after all. Not like Xie Lian told him to get lost out of fear or anything &lt;;.< Oh no I be havin Feng Xin and Xie Lian feelings, as I do every day T-T

alkdjalj Poor Feng Xin. He's so terrified of women. He's just completely gone. Just nope. Cannot do anything. No function. Goodness I feel bad for every female heavenly official having to interact with him.

Hua Cheng is so handsome this episode, honestly. Every frame of him is gorgeous. And male Wind Master is back!

asldakjdladj the little ding that plays when Feng Xin notes that Qi Rong's tactics are ridiculous. Translating the ding: duhhhhhh

Nothing about Xie Lian phases Shi Qingxuan. A true friend.

I love them so much T-T

adlkajdlkajda Hua Cheng is Xie Lian's "sworn brother" I can't with Shi Qingxuan I can't alkdjaldjaljk (yes I know this is the line in at least the English translation but I just alkjdlajda it kills me alkdjaljda). Hua Cheng is so unimpressed alkdalj "You disrespect my relationship with gege???" (I don't think he cares, but I do love that he's slightly more chill with Shi Qingxuan because Shi Qingxuan is one of the the only other people who supports Xie Lian)

I love Shi Qingxuan so much alkdjlaj He's your friend Xie Lian T-T You have a frienddddd

Hua Cheng like, "I'm better besties with gege than you are, Feng Xin >:3 Oh right you're not friendssss anymore are you >:3 Cause you abandoned himmmmm >:3" He's not mad about it. Nope.

Feng Xin covered in blood is pretty >.>

The soft Xie Lian thank you. The happy Hua Cheng acceptance. I love them so much T-T

Hua Cheng: "Overthinking. Just focus on doing what you need to do." He always reassures his gege. He wants his gege to do whatever makes him happy.

Ahhh what a good episode T-T So much Hualian. Feng Xin angst. So pretty. So good. And hey, the subs were decent! There's already been a preview for episode 12, so we know there's at least one episode left! I feel like they'll probably end the season either right before the switch to the past or right at the beginning, which is sad, but it makes sense. I just want more T-T

Other episode thoughts for season 2 (didn’t start till episode 3):

S02E03

S02E04

S02E05

S02E06

S02E07

S02E08

S02E09

S02E10

S02E11 (you are here)

S02E12

[hegrudges]

send 🌵 and i'll recommend a canon rp blog

send 🍀 and i'll recommend an oc rp blog

send 🌹 and i'll recommend a blog that makes me happy

send 🪵 and i'll say a positive thing about my own blog

canon rp blog ….. @arachnidbit ….   you mean eli ? the love of my life ?   no but i genuinely worship the ground that eli walks on.  his portrayal of peter is so special and genuinely one of my favorites in the whole world.  i've never paid much attention to insomniac!peter but eli has totally painted him in a wonderful light and now i'm like. itching to watch every little cut scene i can because i just LOVE HIM SO… and eli captures him perfectly.  thank u , eli , for bein my buddy!

an original character blog …  i love ocs so i follow so many of these but @midwests is SO cool.  teddy is such an amazing character and i think the graphics and overall vibe of the blog is just AHHHH… i haven't interacted with ster much, but i so hope to get to in the future !!!

a blog that makes me happy …   this one was REALLY hard because a lot of my mutuals are literally my favorite people ever.  but @hatigave just came back into my life and i'm so SO SO grateful. so the award definitely has to go to mani !  i love everything that she writes so much but dennis?? that man??? that broken little stabby little guy?? he is the love of mine ( and wade's) life !!!  i genuinely could go on and on about why you should follow & support her but i will keep it brief.

annnd finally - me !!! i struggle to come up with cool things to say about myself / blog but i did recently finally come up with an icon border that i don't hate for both logan and wade and i'm super proud of that so!!! yeah.

&. as a fun little twist. a nice thing about YOU brodie bc you sent this and i appreciate that sm !!! you are literally one of the kindest, most sweetest people i've ever had the privilege of speaking to!! thank you for caring about what i have to say and being so cool all the time.

[shrenvents]

Bad Habits

Chapter Five of the Miracle Aligner series

Jennie's POV

"Can you believe his audacity?" "I'll be dreaming about it you lucky duck." My best friend Maggie aluminates while swatting my arm, then feigning annoyance, she continues. "I can't believe you were about to reject him yesterday." Maggie twirls her fingers into the trim of my sheets as she kicks her feet absentmindedly, lounging on my bed. I swivel in my chair to survey her from my desk. "Shut up M." I say, rolling my eyes comically. "Please show me a picture." She begs, ignoring my complaints with a pout. I shake my head, "Don't have one." "Give me his last name then, I'll find him." She raises her brow, hoisting up her phone, thumbs at the ready. "Turner." I shrug nonchalantly, turning to refocus on my desk mirror, wiping residue makeup from my face.

After several moments of unusual silence, I curiously peek at my friend. Taking her in, I notice her stretched mouth and eyelids. "What is it?" I question, turning to fully regard her frozen appearance.

"You're fucking with me Jen." Her astounded face now looks up from her phone to me, stern and humourless. "Why would I be?" I pause, "Let me guess, ‘Alex Turner's’ an axe murder?" I spin away from her appalled expression, quietly giggling to myself. Didn't Mickey say he was famous or something?

"This man right here?"

I shift my head back to Maggie's stony features, as she props her phone directly in front of me. Glancing down at the screen, I immediately recognize the man who consumed the search results. Thin, brunette, holding a guitar - the resemblance was uncanny. Frowning, I snatch the phone from her hands and begin to scroll through the Google images. They were all him, "Alex Turner."

As I scroll, Maggie picks up my phone to temporarily pause our playing shuffle of music. Suddenly, my speaker echoes with a dark bass. The guitar's carnal sound is so distinguishable, that I shoot to my feet. My arm harshly thrusts my hand into my hair, while the other still clutches Maggie's phone. "No." I basically shout. I knew this song...

"You slept with the lead singer of the Arctic Monkeys," Maggie states rather rhetorically. "No," I mutter nonsensically under my breath, and then I'm gagged by the gravelly voice that vibrates through my speaker. 

"Have you got colour in your cheeks?" 

Maggie's screams fill my apartment. "No frickin way!!" She jumps in circles, completely delighted while the music hollows me at my core.

"Crawlin' back to you, ever thought of callin' when you've had a few? Cause I always do. Maybe I'm too, busy bein' yours to fall for somebody new. Now, I've thought it through. Crawlin' back to you."

I practically tremble as his voice incites memories from our night together. I play it cool in front of him, but I'm just as shaken; desperate to see him.

His haunting music blares and my ears are ringing. "Sounds familiar huh?" Maggie nudges my shoulder with an evil smirk, amused by my look of horror. "Oh come on! People who find out they've fucked a celeb are typically happier than this." Maggie comments with a cackle.

Bringing Maggie's phone back into view, I scan his photos again. This time, his stature carried a different weight. The mystery and intrigue has now been replaced by an unnerving feeling. It's almost intimidating to look at him. This highly successful, attractive man, made a colossal living off of writing evocative songs about his sex life. Oh god. This isn't good. Not just cause I've made a fool of myself - not knowing who he was - but because I'm actually feeling jealous of the anonymous woman he wrote this song about.

"The nights were mainly made for sayin' things that you can't say tomorrow day."

With that, I toss Maggie's phone aside and swiftly pluck mine from her grip, pausing the song. "Hey, maybe now I can get discounted tickets." She laughs, dismissing my tortured expression. "Maybe I'd get them for free." Maggie nudges me again, her brows quirking suggestively and I shove her. "Don't be a bitch." "I'm trying not to be, but you've got to be the stupidest girl in the world." She boosts, flailing her arms as she laughs hysterically. "There's no way I'm gonna let you back out of that date now." She declares, pointing her finger directly to my nose. "I can already tell that's what you're thinking, you commitmentphob." "I am not a commitmentphob!" I exclaim rather pathetically. Maggie gives me a once-over before shaking her head. "Just think," she beams, "You could have songs written about you babe." Maggie's smirk envelops her face as she rambles, and I zone out.

I seem to be experiencing some sort of delayed 'starstruckness.' I grimace while replaying all my interactions with Alex. From the moment we locked eyes and I mocked him, to the moment I left his bed at dawn. I've really outdone myself this time, maybe he'll write about that.

I huff and slump back into my chair. "I'll go," I state, and obviously Maggie understands I mean the date as she cheers. "But," I instantly hear Maggie howl a groan. "I won't take it any further, he's just..." "'Just' what, you freak." Maggie bites. "Complicated, now." I trail off, head hung low. "And I don't want a song written about me."

"'Now' huh? So you would want to be with him if he wasn't rich and famous?" She scoffs. "You're insane," she finishes grumpily.

"How about you respect your friend's decision and shut the fuck up M." I counter, snapping my head to squint at her.

"Whatever, we both know you want him."

"No, I don't.' "Yes, you do, Ms. Turner." "No-" "I could do this all day, really Jen, but unfortunately, I have a long-term boyfriend that needs attending to." She smirks smugly before frolicking out of my room.

“See ya," she sing-songs. "See ya," I reply flatly, later mumbling, "Dickhead." "Love you too!" She yells as the door slams behind her and I let out a hefty, exasperated sigh. This is just one huge mess.

Promptly, an audible “bing” distracts me from my overwhelming thoughts. Speak of the devil.

12:38 a.m. Alex Alexander: Tomorrow, 5 pm, Wilket Creek.

My lips part slightly as I assess Alex's unsolicited text. I shortly contemplate my reply.

12:43 a.m. Me: A strange man invites you to a park in the middle of the winter, what would you do?

12:44 a.m. Alex Alexander: I'd say yes love, as should you.

I grin at my screen, deliberately waiting a few minutes before responding, a tactic Alex clearly didn't care about using.

12:56 a.m. Me: Sugar, has no woman ever told you that the woods aren't exactly an ideal date spot? Have they lived to tell the tale?

I snicker at my own text for a while before clicking send. I pause, noting how I'm literally at the edge of my seat, practically giggling and kicking my feet at texts from a guy, a guy I just swore to cut out of my life.

Fuck, let's be real, I wouldn't consider going on this date if I was serious about ditching him.

"Bing!" My eyes pop from the ground to my phone, and I wince at my pitifully eager reaction.

1:00 a.m. Alex Alexander: No, unfortunately, you will be the first to experience such a date. But I can give you a referral if you'd like. 

I scoff a little too aggressively. As if I would want to talk to one of his many exes. Composing myself, I respond cooly.

1:02 a.m. Me: Cheeky💋

1:02 a.m. Alex Alexander: Very. And impatient.

1:05 a.m. Me: Why? What are you anticipating Turner?

1:05 a.m. Alex Alexander: Dinner? Sex?

1:07 a.m. Me: In the woods? Sounds kinky Alexander, I think I like it.

1:08 a.m. Alex Alexander: Good. I did plenty of research on what Canadian women like.

I guffaw at his message.

1:10 a.m. Me: Yes, of course, we Canadians love our forests. Excellent deduction.

1:10 a.m. Alex Alexander: Thank you Red. Can't wait to see you.

I feel my skin burning. I read over his text multiple times before responding.

1:16 a.m. Me: Can't wait for the sex part huh?

A minute later, those three dots bounce on my screen as he hesitantly replies. It disappears once before appearing again, taking my breath away.

1:21 a.m. Alex Alexander: Just say you miss me Darling.

My thumbs tetter over my keyboard. Typing out those three words then deleting them.

1:33 a.m. Me: See you tomorrow Alexander.

Chapter six

[zacs-of-rwby]

Tip: Tip glances at DA!Qrow briefly, but seems reassured when he just shrugs at him and turns back to the kids, looking determined.

"It is, rather, yes, Ruby. Now I think I'll answer in order of those who asked, so Yang, you would be first!" Tip nods towards Yang, grinnng, his eyes sparkling.

"Like your sister, your semblance is really rather amazing to watch in action. I believe it is registered as burn, if somebody were to land a hit on you, that force is then redirected into your own attack. It might not sound like much, but it makes you an incredible fighter! Your aura is yellow, which, like Ruby, might not be much of a surprise."

"As for you, Blake? Well, you aura is very deep purple, almodst black in some lights. It suits you, a person's aura tends to match the deepest parts of ourself, after all. Your semblance is just as interesting as the others, you can actually clone yourself! It's very useful as a distraction, not to mention being rather similar to Emerald's. All four of your team are rather spectacular in fact!"

"Oh, my apologies. Your team, in my world, consists of yourself, Ruby, Yang and Weiss." Tip nods to each of them in turn, turning to talk to Emerald next, though his eyes seem very slightly dimmer now.

"As for you, miss Sustrai? Your aura is green, which I have to say is a very good color! Your semblance is hallucunations, you can make others see images you wish to show them, like Blake, it's very useful as a distraction during a fight." Tip's voice sounds a little strained, though, recounting Emerald's.

DA!Qrow: "Semblances can be useful, except when they aren't. I'm kinda used to bein bad luck, though. I can work around it, used to it by now."

Tip: "Yes, but you shouldn't have to be..."

DA!Qrow: "Eh, s'not that bad, really. Besides, other me doesn't need ta worry about it. Nobody here has any powers, not even Pocketsized..."

Tip: Tip just sighs, rather sadly. "Would anybody else want to know what i know of theirs? And Oscar? If it helps, we think yours may be healing based..."

Emerald: Hallucinations... I could work with that

Yang: Oh, hell yeah! [Puts her fists together] I bet I could kick all your butts.

Blake: We're a team? What does that mean?

Ruby: OHH!! Are we like superheroes??? What's our team name??? Do we have a cool theme song or a catch phrase???

Weiss: [raises her hand] I'd like to know if I have one.

Whitley: Y-y-yes, me too.

Cinder: [shrugs] I guess I'll bite. What's mine?

Mercury: Do I have one...?

[candied-boys]

🍯 Honey Cakes 🍯

Luke Randolph x fem! Reader

Tags: merpeople au, lazy!Luke, happy!Luke, possessive!Luke, romance, picnics, cottagecore, eventual smut, happy ending

Part three

2,400 words

The muggy heat of July isn't as bad now that you've learned how to not drown. It wasn't easy being taught by someone born in the water though. Luke couldn't understand why you kept kicking your feet to stay afloat, but after you swallowed too much water down the wrong pipe he finally stopped trying to get you to swim with your legs locked together and taught you how to swim like a frog.

You may not be elegant, and you never had a hope of keeping up with him anyway, but when you tire he supports you — letting you rest your head in his shoulder like the first day or lie atop his chest while he floats on the surface like your own personal raft.

Some days you spend the whole afternoon in the cool depths of the lake; dancing where he twirls you around in the water, having splash fights that he invariably wins, playing hide and seek in which you're always it and wind up scared half to death every time Luke sneaks up behind you to pull you under when you take too long to find him.

Other days you lie on the picnic blanket, sunbathing by the shoreline together or drying out after a swim like today. No matter what you're doing the space between you is always filled with sweet nothings and curious banter.

“How long can you stay out of the water?”

“I’m not a fish. I wunna ever die.”

“Really? But your tail…”

“It’s just more comfortable to keep it in the water, but birds and turtles dunna die ‘cause they spend time on land. We’re the same. It’s just dangerous cause y’ silly humans’re so greedy,” he scolds playfully and pokes your nose.

“Very greedy. I want to keep you all to myself,” you smile and wrap your arms around his neck to pull him down over you.

“Good — ‘cause that's what I want too. I wanna be the only one who knows what y’ feel like to hold close… the only one who gets to see how hazy y’r eyes get when y're kissed… the only one who knows where y're sensitive…”

Like a twilight sky his eyes darken with each honey coated word. Slipping a hand beneath your knee he continues, “And I wanna know more… I wanna know whether y'll whimper or whine, whether y'll shake or arch with tension, and whether y'll dig y’r nails into my skin or melt under my touch.”

Nose to nose, his breath is shallow as it caresses your cheeks.

“I wanna know what y’r bare skin feels like pressed against mine. I wanna memorize every inch o’ y’r body with my hands… inside ‘n out…”

As your lips slot together, his hand wanders higher beneath the hem of your chemise. Calloused and rough, the pads of his fingers scrawl his affection into your skin as they trail along your inner thigh.

Relaxing under his weight where he pins you to the ground, you let your hands explore his body. There is much you too long discover — whether his soft, slow drawl will deepen with desire, whether his eyes will close with pleasure or hold fast to yours, whether his skin tastes sweet with lake water or salty from the sun. A thousand temptations swirl in your mind when his tongue entwines with yours.

But suddenly he breaks away, his mild gaze hardening as it slides from you to glare at the side.

An annoyed growl tainting his usually gentle tone, he snaps, “Jin, whady’ want? I’m busy.”

“Yeah, you look real busy, Luke,” a deep voice replies from afar.

“F’ck off,” he quips lazily and looks back over his shoulder while still keeping you hidden beneath his torso.

“Oi, be nice to your big brother!”

“I am bein’ nice. Now, get lost,” Luke replies, turning his gaze back to you in hopes of more kisses.

“C’mon. Not gonna introduce me to your girlfriend? It’s not like she’s a secret when you come home covered in her scent every day.”

“Nope. Not sharin’. She’s mine,” he returns with acid on his tongue and a sugary gaze only for you.

“Hey, I’d never steal a girl from the baby prince. I just want to see how pretty she is.”

“Prince?” you repeat baffled.

“Yeah, it's no big deal,” he says petting your cheek before growling back at Jin. “You wouldna, but y’ wouldna keep y’r mouth shut about her neither. Then, I’d have to fend off the other family slut.”

“Oh, you could take him with your eyes closed and your hands tied behind your back. What are you worried about? None of the others are going to go after her.”

“The girls like him for a reason,” he mumbles to no one in particular.

“How many brothers do you have?” you query after processing 'others’.

“Eight, but the only decent one is the oldest one over here buttin’ in. Seriously, Jin. Beat it!” he drawls in exasperation and splashes the water with his tail.

You hear a faint hum of a amusement before the silky voice counters, “You know you're not supposed to be up here. I won't tattle to the king if you introduce me.”

Rolling his eyes where he hovers above your form, Luke answers, “There's no way Chev doesna already know where I am 'n what I'm doin’. Y’ know that as well as anybody.”

“Sure, but if I mention it, he might not let you get away with this anymore.”

Bolting upright he demands, “Since when do y’ blackmail me?!”

“Since when are you so heartless to your dearest brother?”

You can hear the faux hurt in his voice and giggle, “Is it really that big of a deal, Luke?”

Whipping back to you, palm on your cheek and eyes full of emotion, he defends himself, “Yes! Y're adorable! If they get one look, they'll all be comin’ after y’!”

“Oh, you're right. She is adorable,” the older one purrs, suddenly right next to you, lying on his side with his chin propped up on his palm.

Startled, you find yourself already hidden beneath Luke.

“Y're scarin’ her,” he hisses low, a sound in the back of his throat you've never heard before.

Curious to see another real merman, you turn your head and peek through the gap in the crook of Luke's elbow.

“Hi beautiful,” he grins down at you and winks.

His unbelievably mesmerizing orbs of polished copper make you wonder if all merpeople have eyes like precious gemstones.

“Hi,” you answer shyly and wriggle out from beneath Luke's heavy form.

Your boyfriend groans in annoyance, letting you out of his makeshift cage, but still keeping you within his protection — arms and tail wrapped around you from behind and his chin resting in the crook of your neck.

“See? She's not scared - are you, gorgeous?” He smiles broader at you before flicking Luke in the forehead. “Quit your glaring. I'm not going to touch her.”

Luke only growls in response, no doubt his eyes burning all the more with displeasure from behind you.

Free to satisfy your curiosity you let your gaze wander from the man's copper eyes, across his luxuriously dark skin, down his sculpted torso, and along his golden tail.

“You two look nothing alike. Is that normal for mersiblings?” you query up at Luke who is now pouting upon catching you eye up his brother.

With a huff he explains, “We're half siblings. Same father, different mothers. All my siblings have different mothers except my sister. She's got a different father.”

“When are you going to introduce me to her? You promised, Luke…” you pout back as you recall the day he told you all about how much he adores Leyla.

Luke probably wouldn't have ever come up to the surface to cure his boredom if she wasn't at that age where other boys are more fun to spend time with than her doting — read overprotective — older brother.

“Yeah, when're y’ gonna introduce me, Luke?” a sweet voice sings from the water.

“Oi!! Y’ know y're not allowed up here!” Luke snaps as he sits upright once more, this time yanking you along with him.

You've waited months to meet her and can't resist waving excitedly at the enchanting mermaid bobbing in the water not far away. She smiles brightly and returns the gesture before swimming over.

“You must be Leyla! I've heard so much about you,” you babble enthusiastically and introduce yourself.

Over your shoulder you hear Luke growl again at his brother, “If y’ put her up to this, Jin, I swear—”

“He didna do nothin’, Luke. Calm down.”

“See,” the golden tailed brother affirms with a sly grin to match the cheeky look in her pair of golden eyes identical to his. It makes you suspect the whole thing was her idea to begin with.

Clicking his tongue Luke gives in, “Alright. Alright. Now, y’ got y’r introduction. What more d’y want?”

“I wanna go for a swim together!!” Leyla chirps and looks right at you.

Luke's gaze turns to you too, silently asking if you feel comfortable swimming on your own. You nod confidently, and with a reluctant sigh he frees you from his strong embrace and watches you slip into the water.

As you swim away leisurely Leyla keeps pace with you, asking you all kinds of things about life on land. Her honest smile is exactly like her brother's and so is her straightforward curiosity. Her laugh is as bright as a wind chime when you tell her about your first encounter with Luke.

“Y’ know, he's so much happier these days — since he met y’, I mean. He's always only had me. I've been surrounded by affection from my parents, him, and my friends… but he's never cared for no one else, and nobody’s ever cared about him neither. I'm really relieved he found someone he can open his heart to.”

“Mmm…” you hum neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

“Y’ dunna sound like y’ believe me…”

Staring down into the black depths of the lake beneath your feet you decide to confide in her.

“I know the lake will freeze over and the days will be too short to come visit soon…”

“And?” she coaxes gently.

“And I'm worried I'll miss him so much I'll cry all day and Mrs. Baker will get mad at me for making the bread soggy,” you try to laugh but choke on your emotions instead.

“He's gonna miss y’ just as much. I'm sure o’ that,” Leyla coos, tilting her head to look up into your eyes with the same long lashes and warmth to her gaze as Luke's.

“But he hasn't said anything about winter yet… and I'm starting to think that it's selfish of me to want him to wait… to keep him to myself… I think he'd be happier with someone he can spend the whole year with…”

“Well, all us merfolk sleep through the winter, so he wouldna be awake to be with no one else anyways. But more importantly, I think he doesna want no one else…”

“You really think so? I'm not just the new pastry in the shop window?”

“I don't really know what that's suppos’a mean, but if y're worried he's with y’ ‘cause y're different, y're not wrong. He is with y’ ‘cause y're different, but not ‘cause o’ the novelty. 'Cause y’re what let's him be himself,” she smiles.

All the while a different conversation ebbs and flows out of earshot between the two brothers.

“I'm worried about you, Luke.”

Flopping back down on your sheet and plucking a stem of sweetgrass Luke doesn't answer.

“It's the first time since you came to the palace two years ago that I've seen you open up to anyone…”

“And?”

“And it's obvious you really like her.”

The only response the older brother gets is an unintelligible grumble as Luke chews the rapier between his teeth.

“Have you told her yet?”

“Told her what?”

“That she'll be alone all winter while we hibernate?”

A sigh punctuates the silence before he answers, “Nah. She'll forget me soon enough. There’re plenty o’ better men out there.”

“So you're just going to let her walk away? Is that what you really want?”

“What I want dunna matter. She deserves someone who can be by her side all the time, not someone stuck in a lake who canna even look after her.”

“Well, what if that's not what she wants?”

“Whad’y mean not what she wants? It's what's best for her,” Luke snaps back, jade finally meeting amber.

“I think what's best for her is up to her to decide, Luke, not you. The only part you get a say in is whether or not you're going to be honest with yourself and her about how you feel.”

“The hell am I suppos’a tell her? Dunna worry about the royal guards arrestin’ y’; just chop down a few trees and build a hut by y’rself on the edge of the lake so y’ can stay with me forever — except y'll be alone every damn winter because I'll be sleepin’, so sorry I canna even bring y’ fish to eat. See y’ see next spring! That's just the stupidest thin’ I ever heard, Jin!”

“Leyla said you've been spending your nights in the caverns reading through the ancient texts carved into the walls. I know what you're looking for. If you like her that much she deserves to know, Luke.”

“I'm not tellin’ her nothin’, so just drop it.”

Part five