#captain darius morgan

[sylvia-rouge-fanblog]

Just posted ch6!

[vynsvision]

FINALLY getting to start the Snowfallen Secrets event and I love that Darius knows the NXX is a team, although he doesn't know the name of the team or why they're a team. Also, he seems to believe (correctly) that MC is the leader of the team.

I missed him.

[jjjenia]

does anyone remember those "rule of stellis' law" illustrations? i'm still mad at this particular one:

just leave him alone my god

[nyxronomicon]

a quick errand

Darius Morgan x f!reader

2.6k words

🔞NSFW 18+ ONLY 🔞

cw: unprotected, fingering, creampie, darius wears a wedding ring (but he's divorced), smoking, sloppy kissing, tit play, possessive!Darius (if you squint), praise, mild size kink (he has a big cock what can I say), reader wears lingerie

pet names: love, baby, good girl/naughty girl

You had just stopped by the police station to get some paperwork from Captain Morgan. You were on another one of his cases and Artem loved to make you run little errands like this. Of course you didn't mind, even though Darius wore a wedding ring you found him very easy to talk to and even occasionally flirted with him knowing it wouldn't go anywhere. 

"Anything else you need from me?" He asked as you flipped through the binder.

"This looks like everything." You smiled. You were about to excuse yourself when he spoke.

"You know, you've been very helpful with these cases lately. Have you ever considered being a detective?" You could sense a bit of fondness in his words. 

"My passion is in the courtroom." You studied him a little closer. "Are you trying to poach me, Captain?" You chuckled. 

"No, no, I just feel like I should be paying you for the good work you do." He laughed with you. "Besides, I think Mr. Wing would have my head if I stole you out from under him." He seemed a little dejected, even though his offer wasn't really serious.

"Artem doesn't really have anything to do with it." Even though he was married, you still had a crush on Captain Morgan and you didn't want him thinking you were unavailable. "He's just my boss." You could feel your heart beating a bit faster as Darius stood. 

He walked over to his office door and closed it, leaning against it as he lit a cigarette. "And what about those other men I always see you with? Who are they to you?"

"Huh? Capt-"

"Call me Darius, please." His tone was gentle but firm. You turned in your seat to face him. He was leaning against the door, studying your reaction to his words.

"Darius," you smiled softly, "why do you want to know?" You watched him tap his cigarette on the ashtray near the door before bringing it to his mouth again.  

"Answering a question with a question?" He chuckled. "I'm just trying to get to know you a little better." You might have gotten defensive if it was anyone else. But his soft laughter let your guard down. He could probably get you to tell him anything.

"Luke is just my childhood friend. Vyn is a valuable advisor. And Marius…" you couldn't quite find the words to describe him. After you paused, you could see Darius' expression harden. "I guess I'll just call him a friend." 

"Why the hesitation?" He really was impossible to read. You figured that's what made him a good detective. 

"Well, I'd say he's a client but we do hang out sometimes even though his case is over. I'm certainly closer to him than I am with any of my other past clients." You wondered why he was asking so much about the men in your life. The ring on his finger was prominent as he took a drag of his cigarette. 

"So you're unattached." He finally spoke. 

"You could say that…" you could feel your heart beating faster. You didn't really know what he was getting at, maybe he wanted to set you up? Surely he was not interested in you for himself. 

"So when I say I want to reward you, do you have any problems with that?" He finished his cigarette and put it out. 

"What do you mean?" Darius' office suddenly felt very small. Despite his open window and the light breeze, the smell of his cigarettes and cologne took over your senses. It was so cruel of him to be married and still monopolize your mind like this. So cruel of him to tease you when he was legally bound to another. 

And yet, he never spoke of his wife to you. When you asked about her, he simply sighed and brushed it off. He always flirted back when you said something suggestive and sometimes even started it himself. And without fail he took the time to chat with you for a while every time you stopped by his office. 

"I think you can figure out what I mean." Darius locked the door and removed his jacket before sitting on the small loveseat in the corner. "Sit with me." You watched him roll up his sleeves. This was your first time seeing his muscular forearms. 

"Aren't you… married?" You spoke in a hushed tone. Despite your reservations, his presence was intoxicating. You watched him remove his tie and unbutton the top few buttons of his shirt. The room was thick with sexual tension as he dragged his gaze down your body. 

"No." He slipped the ring off his finger and flicked it across the room. "She divorced me last year. I didn't want to talk about it so I kept wearing the ring." He put his elbows on his knees and leaned forward, staring at the silver band on the floor. 

You quickly left the seat across his desk to join him on the loveseat. "Darius…" you put a hand on his back as you tried to console him. 

"Don't worry about it." He looked back at you and smiled. "It's been long enough.” 

“Are you sure?” You underestimated how much you were drawn to him. Even just sitting next to him had your nerves blaring, your thoughts barely coherent as your fingers traced the muscles of his back. 

“I want you.” He leaned back, his brown eyes gazing into yours as his hand draped over your thigh. “That much I’m certain of.”

You had daydreamed about this. You hated to admit with all of the men fawning over you that the one that was completely unavailable to you had piqued your interest. So while you entertained the idea of others, you were really set on Darius. You’d made up scenarios of how he’d confess his love to you, how you’d push him away because of his marriage. Or even how you’d give in and let him fuck you senseless over that desk of his. 

You never prepared for this. Sure, a divorce had entered your mind on occasion, but you never could have imagined he was divorced this whole time. All this flirting and tension was unresolved simply because he continued to wear that ring. Sure, there was the possibility that he was lying, but that smile. That smile was the most genuine smile you’d seen on Darius’ face. 

“Well? How about it?” He brought you out of your thoughts and your eyes traced over his body. He was leaning closer to you now, his disheveled hair falling into his face. His fingers slowly moved up your thigh, yet still respectful of your pencil skirt. You could see his chest peeking out of the top of his shirt, seeing he was far more built than you thought. 

“Okay,” you spoke quietly. “What’s my reward then?” 

"What would you like?" He inched towards you until your breath mingled. 

"You seem to have thought about this for quite a bit…" you smirked. "How about you take the lead?" 

"Mmm…" his voice was husky, "exactly what I was hoping to hear." He didn't waste any more time, supporting the back of your head with one of his large hands as he captured you in a deep kiss. His other hand remained on your thigh, his thumb making small circles as his tongue entered your mouth. 

You could feel the heat pulsing through your body already. His kisses were firm but desperate. His hands seemed frozen in place, it was clear he hadn't done this in a while. You took his bottom lip between your teeth to try to encourage him. As you pulled away, you met his lusty gaze and found it easy to lose yourself in those soft brown eyes. 

Without warning, he hooked a hand under your legs and pulled them over his lap, reclining you against the arm of the loveseat before leaning over you. One of his arms braced him against the loveseat while the other pushed at the hem of your skirt. He dove in for another kiss, this time more reckless as if you'd found something in him that he thought he'd lost. 

Darius pressed himself more tightly against you, drinking in your heavy breaths as his teeth clashed with your lips. It was as if he was determined to make you his. To make you forget those other boys you were always with. To make you surrender yourself to him like he'd been dreaming you would.

He urgently peppered kisses along your jaw before remembering that you were still fully clothed. You understood what he wanted when his lips reached your collar and you quickly unbuttoned your blouse. Your lacy bra was just barely visible as his kisses impatiently followed your hands down your front.

"You didn't wear this for me, did you?" He barely separated from your skin as the hand that was on your thigh moved to your breast. Heat rushed to your cheeks. You wished the answer was no, but it wasn't. You had a feeling Artem would have you running an errand here today and you always wore something sexy under your clothes when you knew you'd see Darius. Your silence spoke volumes as his thumb rubbed your nipple through the lace. 

"You did?" He chuckled, his lips pressing against the exposed flesh of your tit. "Such a naughty girl…" His kisses now slowed. It was clear he was feeling more confident knowing you'd worn lingerie with the hopes he'd be the one undressing you. 

"It's not…" your breathing was labored as his mouth toyed with your nipple through the fabric of your bra. "It's not like that…'' you repeated yourself, arching your back as his attention sent butterflies up your spine. 

"You're not telling me there's someone else." His voice was lower than usual. Almost possessive. "That would be cruel of you." He pushed the straps of your bra to the side and your breasts spilled out, your nipples hard from his touch. 

"Not half as cruel as you, leading me to believe you were married this whole time." You tangled one of your hands in his messy hair while the other trailed down his muscular arm.

"That's not a no." He stopped, his brown eyes staring at you until you returned his gaze. Your body yearned for him to keep kissing you. To keep touching you. 

"There is no one else." You spoke softly. "I'm yours, and yours alone, Darius." 

"Good girl." He purred, languidly directing his attention back to your tits. He took one nipple between his lips while he pinched the other, making you moan from the contact on your bare skin. 

As he sucked you, you could feel his cock twitch against the back of your thigh. You sighed with pleasure, your body responding to every flick of his tongue. You arched your back more, curling your toes in a way that made one of your heels clatter to the floor. 

Just as your cunt ached for attention, Darius' hand wandered down your torso. He took his time, running his fingers down your hips, along the curve of your ass, then back up your thigh. He hooked his thumb under the hem of your skirt, finally pushing it up and exposing your sex. You gasped as he tugged at your panties.

"Hmm…" he glanced down to see it was a set. "They match." He smiled to himself before haphazardly pulling them to your knees. He rubbed two fingers along your folds, stroking you and feeling how wet you already were. 

"Do you always wear lingerie when you see me?" Darius shifted so he was hovering above your face again. You avoided his direct eye contact, unsure if the heat rushing to your cheeks was from embarrassment or arousal. His fingers circled your clit as he tilted his head to where your eyes landed. "Hm?" He smiled, having a feeling he already knew the answer.

"Y-yes…" you muttered, almost inaudibly. 

He chuckled and dropped his head in the crook of your neck. "I can't believe I kept you waiting so long… you're so perfect…" he mumbled against your skin as he started kissing your collarbone. You could feel his thick cock against your thighs as his fingers slid into your cunt. You moaned as he pumped them in and out, preparing you for his dick. 

“It’s been a while since I…” He trailed off, his hard cock finishing his statement for him with another twitch. 

“It’s ok.” You quickly reassured him, your pussy aching to be filled as it clenched around his calloused fingers. “Darius, I…” You lost your train of thought when he picked up his head, heavy blush decorating his cheeks as he gazed at you with those sexy chocolate eyes. “I want you inside me.” You spoke in barely a whisper, the words falling from your lips without a thought. 

“Anything, love.” His slip of the tongue made your heart race even faster as he kissed you again. His tongue and saliva were messy as he desperately positioned himself between your legs. You could hear the clattering of his belt falling on the floor and the shuffle of his slacks dropping below his cock, which now poked at your entrance. He separated from you only to glance down, making sure he was lined up with your hole. You practically drooled at his size despite the fact that it was hard to see his full length from this angle. 

“Ready?” He asked, seeming to need the reassurance more than you did.

“Yes, please…” He slid himself between your folds, collecting your juices on his tip before plunging himself deep inside you. You moaned at the stretch, tangling your fingers into his messy hair as his attention returned to you. He thrust himself in and out of you slowly at first, getting a feel for the way you wrapped around him.

“Fuck…” He shuddered, kissing your neck as he fucked you dumb, his dick reaching your most sensitive spot with each thrust. 

“Holy shit… Darius…” Moans spilled from your lips, and while you tried to be quiet about it since you were in his office, you couldn’t hold yourself back. He felt too good. The tingling pleasure quickly spread through your whole body, taking you right to the edge. You couldn’t even think straight anymore. His heavy cock pistoned inside you. His teeth left marks of desperation on your neck. From the sound of your moans, he didn’t need his deductive skills to know you were close. 

“I’m so-”

“Shh…” Darius hushed you. “I know, baby…” He began chasing his own high as he spoke. “Wait for me, ok? Let’s cum together.” His breath fanned over your skin. You were so sensitive. Each time he hit that bundle of nerves you were at risk of giving in to your pleasure but you held yourself back and let him edge you. 

“Such a good girl…” He mumbled, ramming into you haphazardly. “So good for me…” You didn’t know how much longer you could take it. Your body was on fire, tingling all the way to your fingertips and toes in anticipation. 

“D-darius…” You whimpered as his breaths got shaky. 

“C-cum with me… !” He grunted, you could feel his seed spilling into you, the pressure pushing you over the edge as you sex flooded with pleasure. You clenched around him, your slick dripping at the base of his cock as he shuddered again. You both rode out the high, breathing heavily as your intertwined bodies buzzed with ecstasy. Finally, he collapsed on top of you, his dick still nestled in your tight cunt. 

“Fuck…” You were still catching your breath. “I don’t know how to go back to work after that…” 

“Call in sick.” He calmly responded, also a little out of breath. 

“Artem’s already seen me today…” You sighed. It would be strange if you called in sick at this point. 

“Then I’ll just tell him I’m borrowing you for the afternoon,” Darius smirked. “There’s a case in my bedroom I think I’ll need help with.” 

[hannahhook7744]

The Storm Bringer (Information and History)

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION:

——————————————————————————

LOCATION:

Dock of Arendelle (sometimes after d3),

Dock of Auardon (sometimes after d3),

Dock of Corona (sometimes after d3),

Dock of Neverland (sometimes after d3),

Dock of the Isle of the Lost (d1-d3).

OWNER(S):

Blackbeard (Captain)(Previously),

Hannah Hook (Captain)(Current),

René Montaudoin (Captain)(Previously).

WORKERS:

Aaron Bog (The Treasuer),

Abi Hun (Crewmate)(Former),

Alex Aoratos-Sinclair (Helmsman),

Amira Bint Aladdin Bin Cassim Al Hamed of Agrabah (Translator)(Future),

Anna Bog (The Lawyer),

Artemis Foundling (Junior),

Atlas Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Atticus Hook (Babysitter Crewmate)(Former),

Beau Foundling (Junior),

Clarice Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Craven Bog (Junior)(Future),

Credence Foundling (Junior),

D.E Anonymous (Anonymous Helper),

Darcy Aoratos (The Medic),

Darius Foundling (Junior),

Darren Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Derrick Red (Crewmate)(Former),

Eduardo Frollo (The Cooper),

Elara Foundling (Junior),

Evelyn de la Cruz (The Prison Guard),

Fiona Foundling (The Look Out),

Francesca Delgado (The Boatswain),

Genesis Flores (The Navigator),

Greyson Hook (Crewmate)(Former),

Gunner Harp (Back up Medic),

Harley Foundling (Junior),

Haul Bjorgman (The Deckhand and Translator)(Future),

Herlando Dancer (Back up Medic),

Hope Sid (The Entertainment and h.r. Representative),

Howiee Wolf (Guard),

Ian Hook (Crewmate)(Former),

Ike Bog (Junior)(Future),

Issac Cipher (Front Desk Attendant),

Isaac Olympian (Crewmate)(Former),

Isaac of Maldonia (Crewmate)(Former),

James Rourke (The Rigger),

Joey Starlights (Crewmate)(Former),

John Facilier (The Gunner),

Jolene Bog (Junior)(Future),

Josh de la Cruz (The Sailmaker),

Joy Foxworth (The Back Up, Back up Kid Wrangler)(Future),

Kailani ‘Clever’ Athanasiou (Storm Manager),

Lance Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Levi Giant (Junior),

Liberty Titan (The Backup Carpenter),

Luke Tremaine-Westergaard (1st Mate),

Luís Barbosa (The Carpenter),

Lysander Foundling (Junior),

Marcys Foundling (Junior),

Marinette Foundling (Junior),

Misty Del Rey-Silver (The Diver),

Morgan Hook (Crewmate)(Former),

Moxie Frankenstein-Van Helsing (Guard),

Nadia Foundling (Junior),

Nevin Hook (Crewmate)(Former),

Noah Aoratos (The Cabin Boy),

Noor Foundling (Junior),

Parker McLeach (The Powder Monkey),

Peachy Gothel (3rd Mate),

Prometheus Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Remi de Vil (4th Mate),

Rian Frankenstein-Van Helsing (The Trainer), 

River Le Beak (Crewmate),

Shan Bri (The Back up Kid Wrangler),

Shania Silver (The Kid Wrangler)(Former),

Shaun Fagin (Crewmate)(Former),

Skelebar Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Skia Aoratos (2nd Mate),

T.K Sykes (Crewmate)(Former),

Terrance Foundling (Junior),

Tiger Khan (Translator),

Tim Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Toby Foundling (Junior)(Future),

Tommy Wonderful (Junior),

Treycor Fae-Aoratos (The Quartermaster),

Tyson Foundling (Junior),

Willow Hawthorne (Junior).

VISITORS:

Captain Hook,

Ginny Gothel,

Hadie,

Harry Hook,

Mal,

Maleficent’s Goons,

Mama Hook,

The Gothel Twins,

The Smee Twins,

Zarina,

Etc. 

FINAL STATE:

Intact.

——————————————————————————

"Creatures of the Night, Prepare to fight!"

THE CREW'S BATTLE CRY.

The Storm Bringer is the name of a pirate ship that Hannah Hook and her crew own.

It served as headquarters for the pirate crew and can be seen throughout the series 'The Marvelous Misadventures of Hannah Hook and Co.'

——————————————————————————

Description:

——————————————————————————

The Storm Bringer is an old pirate ship that Hannah Hook won and fixed up for her crew. Repurposing it as a safe house/boat/home for her crew and replacing the sails with three homemade sails that have a matching flag up on the crowsnest, a single red flag, and two additional crimson red flags.

Its walls are covered in artwork that she and her crew made as well as random treasures they have picked up over the years. 

The wood is mainly brown with hints of red in some places and it has many rooms that the crew share (some of these ‘rooms’ are just areas with curtains hanging up to separate them. 

It is one of the few ships on the isle that is almost fully intact and the shape its in has been described as ‘remarkable’ by the few older pirates that have stepped abroad since the ship came into Hannah Hook’s possession. 

——————————————————————————

History:

——————————————————————————

Hannah Hook acquired the Storm Bringer from it's pervious owner, Blackbeard, in a poker game that she bested him at when she was 6.

In that game, she not only gained a ship but two new enemies (Blackbeard and his son, Barnaby) and the respect of the elder pirates on the isle.

Her first three crew members were Luke Tremaine-Westergaard and Skia Aoratos (her 1st and 2nd mate respectively) and River Le Beak (who decided to just be a crewmate) who helped her build her crew and repair the ship.

They ended up renaming the ship 'The Storm Bringer' and replacing it's old sails with ones they made themselves before tossing the ones in the storage closet.

And over the years, Hannah and her crew ended up redecorating the ship to make it feel more like home. Using art pieces they each made, rewards they'd received, and random treasures they had found to do so.

They even added on to the ship, making more rooms and making it look more intimidating and wild in the process.

——————————————————————————

Gallery:

——————————————————————————

(Old Design):

(New Design):

(Edit):

(Storm Bringer Contract):

(Storm Bringer Crew Tattoo):

(Crew Tryouts Poster):

[vynegar]

luke 3rd birthday card, part one

happy (early) birthday, luke! this translation will be my way of celebrating this year :’) there are some really cute and touching moments in this card, and we get to see a lot of long-awaited sprites, so I hope you enjoy this card too!

disclaimer: this is a fan translation and i am not fluent in chinese, so keep in mind that there will be mistakes. feel free to let me know if you have questions, concerns, or comments.

do not repost without explicit permission. if you want to quote this or reference small parts of the translation, credit and link back to me.

check my masterlist for more translations.

timestamps go along with the card video here. it’s not mine, please support the uploader Axr by liking/commenting/subscribing.

Title: Heartwarming Memories (旧忆灼心)

[PART ONE]

[00:01] Luke’s House

The early morning sunlight was as thin as cicada wings as it passed through the gauze curtains, making the spotless kitchen counter shine dazzlingly bright. The television airing the morning news gave the warm morning a sense of everydayness. As I perused new styles of birthday cakes on my phone, I considered how to give Luke an unforgettable birthday.

MC: (After all, this is the first birthday after our relationship has changed. It needs to be special.)

Just as I was daydreaming, Luke put a piece of toast already slathered with jam on my plate in front of me.

Luke: What’s got you so lost in thought?

MC: I’m thinking about how we should celebrate, since it’s almost your birthday.

Luke’s face was the picture of surprise at my words.

Luke: Huh? It’s my birthday again already?

MC: Yup. Does the great detective Pearce have any ideas?

Luke: Having you at my side for my birthday is enough for me.

Luke spoke without even stopping to think, which actually made me realize some details I hadn’t noticed before. He would eagerly look forward to what birthday surprises I prepared for him, but he himself didn’t care all that much about it. It was as if for him, it wasn’t a day to celebrate his arrival to the world, but rather just a commemorative day to spend with me. Even Aaron, who usually cared about the most trivial things concerning Luke, would rarely offer to celebrate his birthday.

MC: Luke…

Luke: What?

MC: I want to know… What do you think about the day you were born?

Luke: Huh? Why are you asking that all of a sudden?

I couldn’t explain either why I was asking that, but I just had a sense  that deep down inside, Luke seemed to be deliberately avoiding that day.

MC: It’s nothing, I was just curious.

Right after I spoke, a news story interrupted our conversation.

Newscaster: According to reports, the suspect responsible for the recent series of burglaries in the Jia’nan District was finally arrested this morning. The suspect has confessed to committing over thirty burglaries over the past two weeks, typically selecting uninhabited houses to steal from…

The area mentioned in the new report just happened to be where my parents’ house was located, the home that Luke and I used to live in. My gaze was drawn toward the picture on the screen. The park that was being shown was one that Luke and I had often played at when we were kids.

MC: Isn’t that where we often used to go when we were kids?

Luke: Yeah. The thief seems to be targeting that area.

MC: We haven’t gone back in a while, and Mom and Dad’s house has been empty this whole time. Do you think…

It may have been the influence of the news, but I couldn’t help but start to worry about my parents’ house.

Luke: Don’t worry about it for now. I’ll go check over there later and change the locks while I’m at it, to put our minds at ease.

MC: Okay, be careful then.

Luke nodded, then my phone suddenly vibrated from where it was lying face-down on the counter.

MC: It’s Captain Morgan. He usually doesn’t call so late.

Luke: Go see what he has to say.

MC: Okay.

[phone call with private number]

MC: Captain Morgan, did something happen?

Darius seemed to be outside. From the other end of the call, I could hear the clamor of crowds and footsteps.

Darius: Lawyer MC, are you aware of the multiple burglary cases in Stellis these past two weeks?

MC: Yes, we saw it on the news just now. Apparently the suspect has been caught.

Darius: Right. According to his confession, your parents’ house in Jia’nan District was stolen from too.

MC: !!!

Darius: If you’re available, could you come right now and assess the damages? I’m currently at your parents’ house.

MC: Okay, we’ll head over.

Darius: Great, then I’ll see you soon.

[3:04] Parents’ House

An hour later, Luke and I had squeezed our way into the house with some difficulty, as quite a few onlookers were standing in the hallway. Darius greeted us when he saw us arrive and instructed his subordinates to disperse the crowd.

Darius: Go check inside, that guy searched through pretty much every place possible. It’s a bit messy in there. My colleagues have already collected evidence, so you guys just need to go in and check if anything’s missing.

I nodded and stepped past Darius into the house. Everywhere I looked was in a state of disarray after being searched through. Previously when I had moved, I had already stored all of our home’s valuables in a safe deposit box at the bank. The thief probably realized that too, and out of frustration had intentionally destroyed places that couldn’t have had anything stored in them.

Luke: Captain Morgan, how much do you know about the thief?

Darius: We currently think he’s a repeat offender who specifically targets houses that people haven’t lived in for a long time. Right now he’s being questioned at the station, but he’s pretty crafty with his words. He could be hiding something. So that’s why I asked you guys to come here to assess the damages – the quicker you find if anything’s stolen, the easier we can get it back.

Luke: Understood.

Luke glanced at the room that had been thrown into disorder, then turned to look back at Darius.

Luke: It’s too messy here. We’ll need to organize everything before we can check what’s missing.

Darius: I understand. I’ll leave with my team for now, and you guys organize and check everything as soon as you can. If you find anything missing, contact me immediately.

MC: Okay. Thank you, Captain Morgan.

Darius nodded at me then left with his subordinates. We closed the door and the house immediately quieted down. The only ones left were me and Luke, and the chaos all around us. Scattered across the floor were things that we had already forgotten about, such as our report cards and awards and even our baby teeth – things that were precious to us, but useless to the thief.

Luke: Let’s start organizing.

Luke rolled up his sleeves as he spoke, picking up a chair that was on the ground and bending down to pick up the “precious memories” scattered on the floor. Infected by his enthusiasm, I collected my thoughts as well and began to help him.

--

Time passed slowly. After who knows how long, Luke and I finally finished an inventory of everything.

MC: Whew! We’re finally done organizing.

Luke: Nice work. I don’t think anything’s missing, the thief was just searching blindly.

I nodded in agreement, but before I could relax, I suddenly remembered that we hadn’t checked the attic.

MC: Luke, we haven’t checked the attic yet, have we?

Luke: I don’t think so… let’s go up there right now.

MC: No need. We still need you to put these things from downstairs back where they were, so I’ll go check up there first.

Luke: That works. Call me if you need any help.

MC: Okay.

[5:25] Parents’ House Attic

Just as I expected, the attic hadn’t escaped the thief’s clutches either. Although it hadn’t been destroyed like downstairs had, the boxes that were originally in the storage room had all been searched through. Inside were practically all things from Luke and my time as students: toys, trading cards, notebooks… There was only one stood out among them. Unlike the other storage boxes that had paper labels, this one had Luke’s name written directly onto the box.

MC: This storage box…

As I gently ran my hand over the box, the memories came to me – this storage box was filled with things left behind by Luke’s parents. I recalled that when Luke had learned of his parents’ death, for a while his state of mind wasn’t that great. In order for him to adjust better, my parents had decided to follow a child psychiatrist’s suggestion to temporarily put away his parents’ things. However, back then I had felt that my parents had gone too far by putting them away, and gone to Luke about my indignation…

[flashback]

[6:01] Luke’s Bedroom

I quietly opened the door to Luke’s room.

MC: Luke, are you there?

Luke: You… why are you here?

Seeing that I was here, Luke hurriedly wiped his eyes with the back of his hand.

MC: I heard what Mom and Dad said to you. They don’t have the right to put away the things your parents left for you.

Luke: You…

Luke’s eyes were wide. He hadn’t expected me to eavesdrop on their conversation.

MC: Don’t be sad. I’ll help you get them back.

I was ready to go argue it out with my parents right there, but I was stopped by Luke.

MC: What’s wrong?

Luke: There’s no need. I think Dr. Li was right.

Dr. Li was the child psychiatrist who was treating Luke.

MC: Huh? But how? They took away your most important things…

Luke’s expression had been gloomy, but seeing my indignation, Luke couldn’t help but smile.

Luke: I’m already in a new family, so I should say goodbye to Mom and Dad for now and focus on my life in the present. If I stay stuck in the past, it wouldn’t be good for me, or for you and your parents.

MC: Luke…

Maybe because he could feel my concern, Luke deliberately gave a bright smile.

Luke: It’s fine! I know you’re doing this for my sake, I’m happy. You don’t need to worry about those things anymore. Your parents promised to give them to me when I’m an adult. I’m just looking at them a bit later. Besides, some of those things I wouldn’t even understand at this age.

MC: But do you really not want to look at all?

I saw Luke’s stubbornness, and I asked again in dissatisfaction.

Luke: Nope, I don’t want to look right now.

Luke answered resolutely, as if he were trying to convince himself along with me.

Luke: It’s really late. We should sleep, or else your parents will get worried.

MC: Yeah…

[end flashback]

[7:52]

We had grown up in the blink of an eye, and now I could probably understand Luke’s feelings back then. It wasn’t that he didn’t miss his own parents, he was just too responsible, too considerate of others…

Luke: MC, whatcha thinking about?

Luke’s voice woke me from my memories.

MC: Nothing. Is everything tidied up downstairs?

Luke: Yup, everything’s back where it’s supposed to be. How are things here?

MC: It’s alright, he just searched through all the storage boxes.

As I spoke, I pushed the box with Luke’s name written on it towards him, carefully observing his expression.

MC: Do you still remember this box?

Luke looked down at the box with his name written on it, pain flashing in his eyes. Then he nodded as if nothing had happened.

Luke: Of course I remember. Back then, your parents were worried that I’d wallow in grief over my parents’ death, so they put away everything that had to do with them. They promised to give them back to me once I was an adult. Unfortunately, I went to the capitol later and never had the chance.

Luke downplayed what had happened those years as if he was already completely at ease about it, but there was no way that pain in his eyes was just my imagination. I patted the storage box and looked at Luke.

MC: Then this is the perfect chance. Do you want to open it up now?

Luke hand stopped as it was stroking the box, the smile fading from his expression.

Luke: There’s no need. It’s not necessary anymore.

[END PART ONE]

[PART TWO]

[rikumorimachisgirl]

Title: Trading Secrets

Warning: The following content is NSFW. This is not appropriate for readers 18 years old and below.

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Pairing: Darius Morgan x Rosa

Word count: ~1.7K

Summary: Rosa finds out that trading secrets is a fun way to relieve stress.

Notes: I wrote this because I needed more Darius content in my life and because I needed to practice writing smut again. I don't own Tears of Themis or any of its characters but I own the idea for this story.

It was a little past eleven when he stepped inside his apartment that Wednesday evening. Except for the light and the clickety-clack of the keyboard that spilled from the small opening of the makeshift room a little ways off the kitchen, Darius would've thought he was home alone. 

"Is that you, Darius?"

"Good evening, Rosa," the police captain nodded at his guest, who popped her head out of her room to check on him. Soon enough, she stepped out of her room in her blue button-down nightshirt, which looked two sizes too big for her - not that the junior attorney from Themis Law seemed to care. "Late night again?"

"There was a high-profile case that the Chief Justice asked me to look into," he replied, as he slumped on his usual seat at the small dining set. Sitting back, he closed his eyes and rubbed his temple with his fingers. "I would've gone home early, but the report took me longer to create."

"That sounds rough," the young lawyer said as she waddled into the kitchen. She set a stack of files on the table and took the plate with the food she'd left for him so she can heat it in the microwave oven. His eyes traced the lines of her bikini panties, which her nightshirt failed to conceal, and he immediately shifted his attention to the papers in front of him. 

"Another witness?" 

"Yeah," the pretty petite replied wearily. "This case is dragging on far longer than any of us expected."

He read through the file to distract himself from his thoughts. It's been over a week since Artem Wing entrusted his junior to his care, and the dark-haired police captain hasn't slept a wink since. 

Not that Rosa was a noisy housemate - far from it. Rosa usually keeps to her room most of the time, and only comes out when she needs to. She's quite tidy and loves to clean when she's stressed out. She also makes for good company, especially when they're watching the news or discussing current events they've come across in the broadsheet or social media. The problem wasn't Rosa's behavior; it was her choice of clothes that bothered him - like the sweat shorts she wore three days ago when she was cleaning the living room, which did very little to hide the color of her underwear or the tank top she had on when they were drinking whisky together the other night, which had a very thin padding so he could see the outline of her nipples. The yoga shorts she wore this morning when she decided to exercise before going to work sent him flying to the bathroom where he relieved his throbbing member under the cold water from the shower. 

He cursed himself - it was ungentlemanly of him to be sexualizing his unexpected guest, especially when she was a good 13 years younger. The microwave chimed, and soon he smelled the delicious aroma of salt and pepper spare ribs wafting in the air. 

"Eat it while it's hot," she prodded. 

"Did you make this?" 

She laughed. "I admire your faith in my ability to cook, but no, Artem made this and sent it over." 

He watched her get their half-empty bottle of whisky and two glasses from the bar. She looked even more tired tonight and the circles under her eyes were darker. "You've brought out the whisky. Are things not going well between you and Artem?"

"Don't make it sound weird," she quipped as she poured the amber liquid into both glasses. Tipping her glass at him, she said, "Cheers!"

They fell into their usual groove over the next hour or so. She begged him to talk about his day and asked him all sorts of questions about the cases his team handles. She offered her advice about how to best approach the high-profile detainees from the recent drug bust and listened to him give his expert opinion about the case she was handling. 

As he was sharing his suspicion about the star witness in her current case, he saw her squint her light yellow-green eyes and attempt to suppress a yawn. He checked the time - it was half past midnight. 

"You seem tired. Maybe we should call it a night," he offered. 

"I'm not that tired yet," the young brunette replied, stretching her arms above her head while letting out a yawn. Before he could stop himself, he watched the fabric of her nightshirt outline the swell of her breast as she stretched. 

He shook his head. Darius, this woman is young enough to be your baby sister, he repeated to himself. For as long as he can compartmentalize her into that role, he figured he would be okay. 

It could be because of the alcohol and the fact that she looked cute, but somehow compartmentalizing her wasn't doing the trick. Her nightdress was now disheveled, her nipples were peeking through the fabric of her clothes and it was enough to send blood rushing to his manhood. He sighed and quietly counted to ten to calm himself down. 

"I think you should rest," the dashing dark-haired captain said. "Artem would be upset if he finds out you've been staying up late."

"But I can't sleep," Rosa whined. "Lately, all this prep work for the trial has been stressing me out so much, my brain's been working overtime. I can't relax, and I can't sleep."

Darius took one look at the crestfallen expression on Rosa's face and mentally deliberated between helping her or leaving her to her own devices. "But she's still young," he muttered under his breath. 

"I'm right here and I'm twenty-four. What are you up to?"

"Nothing," the Stellis Police Captain replied, downing his glass of whisky. "We should go to bed."

"Darius," Rosa cried, as she gripped his arm. "Don't go to bed yet. Stay with me a little while longer. I'm not tired yet and you have the day off tomorrow, too, right?"

He sent a prayer to the heavens. He was so close to giving in. He wished she'd be a good girl and just go back to her makeshift room so he can take a shower. 

But she wasn't keen on following instructions the first time tonight. He wasn't sure if it was the way she pleaded with him or the feel of her hand as she held his arm for dear life, but the gruff police chief let go of all remaining logic he had left as he picked Rosa up and hoisted her on his shoulder. Slamming the door of his bedroom shut, he dropped the young woman on his bed and stared at her bewildered expression. 

"Listen, I'm gonna help you sleep, but you better promise me you'll keep this a secret. Don't tell anyone about this," he said. 

"I believe that's how a secret works." 

He smirked. Even in her disheveled state, the junior lawyer still managed to answer back. No wonder she has Artem wrapped around her finger. He crouched down in front of her. 

"Have you ever been intimate with a man before?" 

She shook her head. "But… But I know the science behind it. I have an idea of how it works," she said. 

Darius chuckled as he grabbed her legs and knelt in front of her. He could smell her arousal and he didn't have to touch her to know she was getting excited about what he was about to do. 

"I have another secret to tell you," he said, as he reached for the waistband of her panties. There was a curious spark in her eyes. "I used to think of myself as your older brother," he confessed while slowly sliding her panties off her legs. He then positioned her legs on either side of his face and smirked. "But I wouldn't do this to my baby sister," he said before he licked the slit of her pussy once before lapping at it like a starving man. 

She gasped at the feeling of his wet tongue on her most intimate part. It wasn't unpleasant. She wanted more. She bucked her hips against his face, urging his tongue to keep tasting her. The feel of stubble on her clit as he ravaged her made her scream.

In between licks, Darius kept telling her how good she tasted and what Artem would do if he ever found out he was eating her out. These only added fuel to the fire as she begged him to keep going. 

She thrashed wildly when he sucked at her clit. She pulled on his hair, on the sheets - she didn't care if she looked like a maniac, but she wasn't gonna make him stop. 

He held her hips steady. "Look at me, Rosa," he told her. With her eyes locked on his, he lowered his lips again and parted her slit with his tongue. His eyes never left hers as he expertly parted her slit with his tongue and plunged deeper. Each time she would close her eyes, he'd click his tongue to remind her to keep watching. He loved watching her rise and fall apart with each lick and each suckle. As his tongue plunged inside her, he felt her tremble and knew she was close. He could also feel his pants tighten, so he unzipped his pants and took his cock out to stroke it while he drove Rosa off the edge.

"Darius…"

"I know, I know, baby," he said. "Don't fight it. Let it go. Cum for me." 

"Darius, I-I'm coming," Rosa gasped before waves of white heat rolled inside of her and Darius lapped it all up, not stopping until he's consumed all of her essence and planting one last lick on her sensitive clit. 

Sensing his own release, he stood over Rosa, still sprawled on his bed. "Sorry, Rosa, I'm gonna cum, too. May I?"

Before she had the chance to respond, he lifted her nightdress and groaned. Webs of creamy white liquid spilled from the tip of his large member unto her warm belly, and she watched as the magnificent man who had given her her first orgarsm now sought his own release. 

He collapsed on top of her and kissed her forehead. "Let's get you cleaned up so you can go to sleep," he said, still catching his breath. "After all, you must be tired now."

"I am," the pretty petite nodded. "But I want to sleep here. And since we have the day off tomorrow, do you mind if we trade some more secrets, Captain Morgan?" 

The older man laughed. "I can't possibly say no to a request from little Miss Attorney Rosa," he said, burying his face on her neck. "I have a lot of secrets to share with you. I hope you're ready for it."

The end. 

[actualbird]

im sorry but if i was rosa i would NOT date any of the main boys only because i would go after CAPTAIN DARIUS MORGAN INSTEAD ❤️

ur so real for this anon. his tired swag and world weary eyebags are bewitching!!!! i jest of course, hes very hot but i just want him to also get a good night's sleep bc he looks like he hasnt seen a bed since 1999...

[yujikuna]

another day of mihoyo not letting us romance captain darius morgan</3

[tinymaru-archived]

Not the SSR we got, but the one we deserved.

[spirituallydemon]

A clean saved

Captain Darius

Without dark circles

CAUSE WHY NOT

That's one fine piece I see

So .... when is his route releasing

[vynsvision]

I cant edit it uh without ~breaking~ it so yeah this is the Darius Morgan fic I thought up about a year ago! Also shoutout to anyone who liked my "What If MC Wasn't a Lawyer?" post bc I wrote that while procrastinating this lol.

Chapters: 1/? Fandom: 未定事件簿 | Tears of Themis (Video Game) Rating: General Audiences Warnings: Creator Chose Not To Use Archive Warnings Relationships: Original Character / Captain Darius Morgan Characters: NXX Investigation Team (Tears of Themis), Zuo Ran | Artem Wing, Mo Yi | Vyn Richter, Xia Yan | Luke Pearce, Lu Jinghe | Marius von Hagen, Yan Wei | Darius Morgan, Original Non-Binary Character Additional Tags: Other people might show up too but mostly its the oc and darius, Alternate Universe, oc uses they/she, darius is in fact smitten but cant admit that bc yanno, someone play mama im in love with a criminal for darius, ok actual story tags:, mc as a criminal, the nxx still exists, everyone is different without rosa!mc, things end up ok in the end, Rivals to Lovers, i will add tags as more are relevant Summary:

Alternate Universe: MC never became Rosa, the NXX still exists but nothing is as smooth without Rosa. MC is instead a criminal who tries to point out hypocrisy and bullshit, while sinking their claws into Darius, for unknown motives.

[jjjenia]

Didn't my man deserve just one event R-card in some different outfit (along with Celestine or whatever)? Or make it any other letter? Is it too much to ask?

[hannahhook7744]

Stormbringer Crew Species;

Aaron Bog (The Treasuer)= Demon-Human Hybrid.  

Abi Hun (Crewmate)(Former)= Human.

Alex Aoratos-Sinclair (Helmsman)= Demigod.

Amira Bint Aladdin Bin Cassim Al Hamed of Agrabah (Translator)(Future)= Human.

 Anna Bog (The Lawyer)= Demon-Human Hybrid. 

 Artemis Foundling (Junior)= (Thought To Be) Human With Severe  Jaundice.

Athena Queen (The New Powder Monkey and Rigger)= Witch.

 Atlas Foundling (Junior)(Future)= (Thought To Be) Changeling-Shapeshifter Hybrid.

 Atticus Hook (Babysitter Crewmate)(Former)= Human.

 Beau Foundling (Junior)= Human-Goblin-Troll Hybrid.

Clarisse Foundling (Junior)(Future)= Orge-Human Hybrid.

 Craven Bog (Junior)(Future)= Demon-Human Hybrid. 

Credence Foundling (Junior)= Centaurcorn.

 D.E Anonymous (Anonymous Helper)= Unknown. Thought to be a ghost. 

Darcy Aoratos (The Medic)= Witch Demigod.

Darius Foundling (Junior)= Mummy-Human Hybrid.

Darren Foundling (Junior)(Future)= Disabled Human. 

Derrick Red (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

 Eduardo Frollo (The Cooper)= Human.

 Elara Foundling (Junior)= (Thought To Be) Elf-Human Hybrid.

 Evelyn de la Cruz (The Prison Guard)= Witch.

 Fiona Foundling (The Look Out)= Fairy.

 Francesca Delgado (The Boatswain )(Former)= Witch.

Genesis Flores (The Navigator )(Former)= Witch.

 Greyson Hook (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

 Gunner Harp (Back up Medic)= Demigod-Harp Angel Humanoid Hybrid.

Hannah Hook (Captain)= MagicBorn Witch.

 Harley Foundling (Junior)= Green Humanoid Thought To Be From An Alternate Realm.

 Haul Bjorgman (The Deckhand and Translator )(Future)= Human (But Could Be Considered A Reverse Changeling Via His Father).

 Herlando Dancer (Back up Medic)= Vampire-Human Hybrid.

 Hope Sid (The Entertainment and H.R. Representative)= Banshee-Wizard Hybrid.

 Howiee Wolf (Guard)= Werewolf-Wolf Humanoid Hybrid.

Ian Hook (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

 Ike Bog (Junior )(Future)= Demon-Human Hybrid. 

 Issac Cipher (Front Desk Attendant)= Extradimensional Dream Demon (Possibly A Hybrid).

 Isaac Olympian (Crewmate )(Former)= Godling.

 Isaac of Maldonia (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

 James Rourke (The Rigger)(Former)= Human.

Joey Skylights (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

John Facilier (The Gunner)=  Evil Bokor-Demigod Hybrid. Jolene Bog (Junior )(Future)= Demon-Human Hybrid. 

 Josh de la Cruz (The Sailmaker)= Witch.

Joy Foxworth (The Back Up  Back up Kid Wrangler )(Future)= Human.

 Kailani ‘Clever’ Olympian (Storm Manager)= Evil Bokor-Demigod Hybrid.

Lance Foundling (Junior )(Future)= Black Eyed, Forked Tongued, Albino Human That Was Saved From Becoming An Imbunche (By Hannah).

 Levi Giant (Junior)= Human-Giant Hybrid.

 Liberty Titan (The Backup Carpenter)= Titan-Cyclops Hybrid. 

Luke Tremaine-Westergaard (1st Mate)= Human. 

Luís Barbosa (The Carpenter)= Human.

Lysander Foundling (Junior)= Satyr (But Suspected Hybrid). 

 Marcys Foundling (Junior)= Centaur (But Suspected Hybrid).

Marinette Foundling (Junior)= Bluish-Grey Humanoid.

Misty Del Rey-Silver (The Diver)= Human-Merperson Hybrid.

Morgan Hook (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

 Moxie Frankenstein-Van Helsing (Guard)= Born Human, Resurrected Into Something Akin To A Wendigo But Not Exactly.

Nadia Foundling (Junior)= Genie-Human Hybrid.

 Nevin Hook (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

Noah Aoratos (The Cabin Boy)= Godling.

Noor Foundling (Junior)= Genie-Human Hybrid.

 Parker McLeach (The Powder Monkey)(Former)= Human.

 Peachy Gothel (3rd Mate)= Witch/Magical Person.

Prometheus Foundling (Junior)(Future)= Disabled Human.

Remi de Vil (4th Mate)= Human Of Godly Decent.

 Rian Frankenstein-Van Helsing (The Trainer)= Born Human, Resurrected Into Something Zombie-Like.

 River Le Beak (Crewmate)= Human-Merperson Hybrid.

Shan Bri (The Back up Kid Wrangler)= Human (With A Magical Parent).

 Shania Silver (The Kid Wrangler )(Former)= Human-Merperson Hybrid.

 Shaun Fagin (Crewmate )(Former)= Human. 

Skelebar Foundling (Junior )(Future)= Humanoid Creature. 

Skia Aoratos (2nd Mate)= Godling.

 T.K Sykes (Crewmate )(Former)= Human.

 Terrance Foundling (Junior)= Werewolf-Vampire Hybrid.

Tiger Khan (Translator)= Human Raised By A Tiger.

Tim Foundling (Junior )(Future)= Human Child Who Ages Backwards (Physically). 

 Toby Foundling (Junior )(Future)= Merperson.

 Tommy Wonderful (Junior)= Witch/Magical Person.

Treycor Fae-Aoratos (The Quartermaster)= Fairy-Demigod Hybrid.

Tyson Foundling (Junior)= Werecat.

Willow Hawthorne (Junior)= Human-Tree Nymph Hybrid. 

I just realized that Hannah Hook's crew are mostly none-humans. Which means that some things they all do would defo come off as off putting to those in Auradon lol.

[vynegar]

luke 3rd birthday card, part five

same disclaimer and notes from part one.

youtube link to Axr’s video of the card story

links to other parts: one two three four

more tot translations here

do not repost

[PART FIVE]

[31:45] Luke’s House

The room was toasty, as if the cold winter had suddenly turned into warm spring. Luke was worried that I had been cold at the law office and made me a cup of ginger tea. The cup of tea warmed me continuously from where the outside of the cup was in contact with my palms. Just as I was thinking about how I had warmed up, Darius returned my call.

MC: Captain Morgan, are you still working?

Darius: Yeah, we’re still questioning him. I asked about the photo you sent.

MC: What’d he say?

Darius: He sure knows his stuff. He immediately recognized that the MP3 player was limited edition and sold it on the black market the same day he stole it.

MC: Are you able to find it?

I heard Darius’s quiet sigh from the other end of the call.

Darius: It was an anonymous transaction online. It may be difficult to trace.

Luke and I glanced at each other, our hearts sinking.

Luke: Did he say where he sold it?

Luke asked Darius for further information.

Darius: It’s a site on the dark web that’s already shut down. The technology department is still investigating it.

Luke: Okay, understood. Thank you for help, Captain Morgan.

Darius: Alright. We’ll be in contact if there’s any new information.

After hanging up the call, Luke frowned in thought for a moment, then looked up at me.

Luke: Wait for me at home. I’ll go ask around about it at Bar L.

Bar L was the nexus of all kinds of information at Stellis City. Luke had been there many times in search of intel for his cases.

MC: Nope. If you’re going, then I’m going with you.

I didn’t want to miss out on any information related to the MP3 player. It was a surprise for Luke, I couldn’t let the surprise get ruined so soon.

Luke: It’s too late. And it’s so cold outside, you can just stay at home…

I was shaking my head before Luke even finished speaking.

MC: This MP3 player is very important to me. Take me with you, okay?

He looked at me and knew that it was no use disagreeing with me. In the end, he had no choice but to sigh helplessly.

Luke: Okay, but you can’t leave my sight.

I immediately nodded, and Luke grabbed my coat and scarf for me, making sure that I was bundled up before we left the house together.

[33:37] Bar L

Even though it was late at night, Bar L was still packed. Luke shielded me as he walked to the counter and smoothly ordered two drinks. The bartender recognized us immediately and swapped with the previous waiter so he could personally come over.

Bartender: Mr. Pearce, Miss Lawyer, it’s been a while.

We didn’t bother with pleasantries, immediately handing over the photo of the MP3 player to him.

Luke: This was probably sold off last week. Are you able to track it down?

The bartender scanned the photo and gently lifted his brow.

Bartender: A 2004 limited edition MP3 player. There aren’t that many on the Stellis marketplace. It shouldn’t be difficult to find it, but it’ll take time.

MC: How long will it take?

Bartender: At least several days, possibly up to two weeks. It depends.

MC: Can it be done quicker? Before December 5th, if possible.

Luke glanced at me with an unreadable expression at my mention of his birthday. The bartender was clearly surprised too. He glanced at the calendar and stayed firm with his previous answer.

Bartender: That’s not much time. I can’t guarantee it.

MC: Can you figure out a way to do it?

Bartender: I’ll do my best.

I wanted to say something to express how important the MP3 player was, but Luke was already speaking.

Luke: Okay. I’ll send the web address to you. If you find the MP3 player, please send it to us immediately using the intra-city mail.

The bartender took the paper with the address, folded it, and placed it in his shirt pocket.

Bartender: No problem.

Seeing that we were done speaking, the bartender turned and left the bar counter. Luke looked at me, putting my hand in the front pocket of his shirt.

MC: Do you think we can find it?

Luke: Don’t worry too much about it. Just let things take their course.

For some reason, my anxieties settled down once I heard Luke’s words.

Luke: Let’s go home.

MC: Okay.

[35:17] Luke’s House

Time slipped away amidst the busyness of every day, and in the blink of an eye it was Luke's birthday. We decorated the house together for his birthday, and watching Luke bustle around suddenly made me want to laugh.

Luke: What? Why are you laughing all of a sudden?

MC: I'm not. I'm just wondering if the man of the hour thinks it's unfair that he has to put up his own birthday decorations.

Luke: Unfair? Of course not, I think it's pretty original.

As he spoke, Luke looked at the decorations that were mostly done.

Luke: And through every balloon and streamer, it's like I can feel what my parents felt when they were celebrating my birthday that year.

MC: So it feels more realistic than watching the video?

Hearing Luke say that, I immediately became interested. He looked at me, casually brushing his fingers through some stray strands of my hair, and answered cheerfully.

Luke: Yeah. I feel completely immersed.

[…]

When we finally finished decorating the scene, it was an almost exact replica of Luke's second birthday. Bright balloons, colorful streamers, and a cartoon cake...

MC: It really does feel like a birthday party meant for a child.

Luke: That's because we're recreating my second birthday. It's just about time now. When do we start?

I checked the time. It was almost eight, but the MP3 player still hadn't arrived. My earlier message to the bartender didn't get a response either.

MC: Can we wait a little longer?

Luke: Of course we can, but...

Luke looked at me and sighed helplessly.

Luke: Are you still waiting for that MP3 player?

MC: How did you know?

Luke: Because you've been acting weird. I'm right next to you, but every five minutes you're checking your phone... You're obviously waiting for a notification, and if I think about what happened before, I can pretty much guess what it is.

I didn't think that Luke had noticed my anxiousness.

Luke: Does that MP3 player... have something in it that’s about me?

His question was simple. I just needed to answer yes or no, but I was worried that I would disappoint him. The answer should have been simple, but I couldn't say anything at all. At that, Luke smiled gently.

Luke: Even if you don’t say it, I already know the answer. You’ve been hiding its origins, but the MP3 player in the photo has my parents' initials engraved onto it.

MC: Huh? I didn't even notice! So you knew all along?

Luke nodded gently. It turned out he had known all along what I was looking for, but kept himself from asking.

Luke: Now can you tell me what's saved in the MP3 player?

MC: I didn't hear what was in it either. I only know that your and my mom’s friend, Ms. Yu, mentioned it. Basically it was before you were born, what your parents wanted to tell your future self.

Luke: !!!

It wasn’t toward two-year-old Luke in the video, nor was it relayed by others. Saved in the MP3 player was what they purposefully wanted to say to the current Luke. Complex expressions interplayed on Luke’s face – disbelief, feeling moved, and understanding.

Luke: Did you care so much about the MP3 player because you couldn’t stop thinking about what I said earlier, about being an “onlooker”?

I nodded.

MC: I know there are some regrets in the world that no one can change. But I still want to decrease the regrets of the person I love, even just a little bit.

Luke: You…

Luke stared at me in shock, then gently embraced me.

Luke: Thank you, for caring so much about me.

MC: It’s just what I’m supposed to do.

Luke: I accepted my parents’ passing a long time ago, but just like I’ve always said… You and your parents have satisfied my every fantasy about family. When it comes to the warmth of a family, I’ve never felt lacking. I just… kind of regret how fickle fate can be.

MC: Luke…

I held the corner of his shirt in comfort.

Luke: Those recordings might be able to make up for those regrets, but if you’re always worried about that…

Luke let go of me and reached out to softly stroke my cheek. We were still pressed close against each other, and could distinctly see each of our reflections in each other’s eyes.

Luke: Then as my most important family member right now celebrating my birthday, today would leave behind some regrets, wouldn’t it?

MC: I…

Sensing that I was flustered, Luke’s mouth tugged upwards, and he leaned close to my ear.

Luke: Therefore, can you promise me to forget that for now, and properly celebrate this birthday with me?

Under the lights, Luke’s expression was gentle, and somehow I was able to set down what had been troubling my heart and go along with him.

MC: Okay, I promise.

[END PART FIVE]

[PART SIX]

[bruh-myguy-what]

WHY CANT HE BE MY LOVE INTEREST. I NEED HIM.

WHY ISN'T HE ONE OF THE LOVE INTERESTS??