#cause of course selfish waltz is amazing

[seungminnnie]

claiming deep dive btw. ateez album openers are bangers and consistently set the tone for the album SO well

[outerbankslut]

Childhood Friends... Pope Heyward

Summary • You have been in love with Pope Heyward since you first met him when you were younger. But there’s one or two problems. Or so you think. He doesn’t like you. Does he?

Warnings • Swearing. Underage drinking.

Word Count • 3.3k (Imagine)

Masterlist

(GIF isn’t mine, let me know if it’s yours)

    AT EIGHT YEARS old you first met Pope Heyward. The concept of Outer Banks at such a young age seemed like a dream for you. Never ending beaches. Hot weather practically all the time. Surfing and swimming at your beck and call. It was a stark change from living in Minnesota.

The house you moved into was a small two story house next to one almost identical. And the day you had moved in a boy came knocking at the door. He seemed around your age and held a pie dish in his hands seemingly quite nervous. Your parents were upstairs unpacking so you opened the door hoping maybe you could make a friend.

"My mum made me bring this pie for you since we’re neighbours, here you go." He kept his eyes trained on the ground then handing you the pie and scurrying back home before you could even take a breath. Your face dropped as he ran off but you felt determined to make him a friend, after all you were neighbours so how hard could it be since you'd see him almost all the time.

A few days later your mum wanted to buy some groceries rather than living off of takeaway food for any longer and opted for going to Heywards shop. Which ended up being your neighbours store.

You wandered through the store while your mum chatted with Heyward and eventually stumbled upon the boy who ran away sitting on the floor and reading a comic.

"Spider-Man's really cool." You had said sitting down next to him as his head snapping to the side suddenly looking from his marvel comic to you. It was a surprise he didn't get whiplash.

"Really? I think so too." The boy gushed about the hero while you sat listening. Then your mum called you from the front of the store and you pouted, sad you could hang out with your new friend any longer.

Then the next thing you knew the eight year old boy was dragging you both to your feet and taking you to the candy area. He handed you a chocolate bar with a cheeky grin. "Don't tell my dad."

You nodded and giggled before rushing off to your mum and looking back at your new friend happily. Your parents invited the Heywards around for weekly dinners and alternated between houses becoming good family friends which only strengthened you and Popes friendship.

After that began it was an almost daily thing for you to hang out. You and Pope were attached by the hip. You went on your bikes together. Even took kids surfing lessons together. Though Pope practically already knew how to surf since he was raised on the water.

As you grew older you would do your homework together with the Heyward boy often helping you with the subjects you struggled in while you helped him with the things he struggled with.

Eventually you offered to help with the shop to pass time and hang out with your friend and at this point the Heywards were like family to you.

When you were both ten years old Pope had the idea to make a tree house. And though not the best considering it ended up just a rickety platform balancing on branches with ladders either side of it, it still worked. The tree overhung both houses back gardens with its trunk positioned just on the edge of your garden.

You met two more goofs that year. JJ and John B. The two Js was what you called them at first. You became fast friends with their long hanging bond similar to yours with pope. You fit like a lock and a key together. However you never showed the Pogues the treehouse, it was just you and Popes little space.

You spent a lot of time up there just staring up at the stars of reading. Pope liked to talk about all his hopes and dreams while you were there and you listened.

"Y/N, do you think I’ll be able to get into a good college. Like for forensic pathology." He asked as you laid on the 'treehouse' could you even call it that.

"Pope you are the smartest person I know. So it's unlikely that you won't get into anywhere you want."

"I know it's just—I don't think my dad can afford it so I'll need to get a scholarship. There'll be be hundreds of people competing for it. I'm just a drop in the ocean to them." He ranted and you could hear the stress in his voice. This wasn't something someone as smart and determined as Pope should have to stress about was all you thought. He deserved so much while people who deserved so much less got fed with a silver spoon up in figure eight.

"They'd be dumb not to let you in. I don’t see how you wouldn’t. I have faith in you but I will also do whatever it takes to get you in. I'll pay for your tuition myself if I have to. Or I'll find some dirt on the dean and—"

"I'd rather not have my acceptance be a product of your blackmailing ways Y/N but thankyou and I'm not letting you pay for my tuition." He laughed. It was the melodic sound that rung in your ears that made you smile and turn your head away from the stars and towards him. The small lights you had hanging from the tree branches were bouncing off of his beautiful chestnut skin. His eyes were a shade of dark honey brown that simmered in the light. He was amazing in every single way.

Your fourteen year old self was starting to realise what you had been oblivious to the whole time. You would do anything for Pope. He was your ride or die. And you hoped you were his.

However when Kiara came in was when things went weird between you and Pope. She waltzed in in all her kook glory looking like a goddess. So of course you couldn't blame the boys when suddenly all their attention was on her and her beautiful brown wavy hair or golden cocoa skin that glimmered in the sunlight. You couldn't figure out whether she was just born lucky with amazing genetics or whether she was a vampire like from Twilight. Either way, Pope Heyward fell and he fell hard that year. At work he always spoke about her and it was slowly killing you inside. Every time he mentioned it you swore you heard your heart break and crack into more pieces.

You wished you could tell him. But you would be putting your friendship on the line. It would be selfish to tell him when he clearly wasn’t interested.

Instead of moping over an unattainable crush you attempted to move on. And to everyone’s surprise started flirting back with JJ. He was always shooting his shot like he did with Kie and tourons at keggers but normally you never flirted back. You thought somehow within your skewed logic it would work and you would be over Pope. Like the saying fake it till you make it. But it just bought your thoughts back to how it wasn’t Pope.

The Heyward boy started to pay more attention to it. He got a weird feeling in his stomach everytime he saw you laughing at JJs jokes and not his or just talking to each other. He stared every time you flipped your long glossy hair over your shoulder and looked flawless or would saunter off back into the chateau for a drink.

His interest turned from anyone to you within a second of a word coming from you pink lips. But you had convinced yourself he wasn't interested and you were oblivious to his newfound feelings. And so he stayed blind as he had been before to yours.

    "HEY WHAT’RE YOU doing over here, lil red." JJs nickname had originated from the fact that red was your favourite colour. You had even dressed up as little red riding hood one year for Halloween which sparked the full nickname. It was sweet but in no way anything more than a friendly nickname. Although Pope begged to differ. You sat leaning against the wooden poll on the wooden floor of the dock. Your arms wrapped around your legs pulling them close to your chest giving you a sense of comfort as you stared at the sunset across the marsh.

You turned to the blond sending him a small smile before turning back to the sinking blends of fluorescent pink and oranges blurring into one beautiful mess in the sky. "Watching the sunset."

"Mind if I watch too?" He asked settling down beside you and resting his arms on his knees. You nodded. It turned away from the sky.

You heard the laugh of Pope from behind you and turned this time you turned away to look seeing Pope laughing with Kie that just sparked jealousy in your stomach. He looked so happy with her.

"So what's the deal with that?" JJ asked from beside you and you turned to him confusion splattering on your features which were orange from the light hitting of the setting sun.

"What are you talking about?"

"I'm talking about the long glances, more like stares really and when you tell a joke you always look to Pope first. You look at him like he's the best thing in the world. Not to mention you randomly starting to flirt with me. I'm a professional ladies man. I notice these things. You’re not interested in me, it’s Pope." He blurted out and you sat rubbing a hand over your face with a sigh.

"I don’t do any of that." JJ have you a look which you shrugged at. “Look I—I did, but I don’t anymore.”

“You sure about that?” JJ kept his stare on you as you shuffled uncomfortably before sighing.

“I just wish he could just like me back, but he never will he’ll always like Kie and I don’t wanna be jealous of them cause then I’ll be a terrible friend but... I can’t help it.”

“Lil red, I know you might not believe me but I think Pope does like you. A lot. I’ve seen the way he looks at you. It’s not just some friendly look.” He places his hand on your shoulder rubbing it softly and you send him a tight lipped smile.

“Maybe he does, I doubt it though. And people say girls are complicated. You boys are just as complicated.” You teased bumping his shoulder as he let go of yours. “But anyway we’re forgetting about the most important rule ever. No pogue on pogue macking.”

JJ snorted shaking his head. “Don’t bring up that bullshit rule. I know that if anyone of you showed interest in me it would be out of the window.”

“I’m not particularly a rule breaker unlike you.”

“Rules are made to broken but you’re just boring Lil Red.” You gasped and turned to your friend.

“No I am not. Take it back.” You glared at him jokingly.

“What’re you gonna do?”

You raised your eyebrows and then pushed the boy off the dock thinking you’d suceeded for a slip second until he grabbed your shoulders and pulled you in too.

Pope watched the two of you laughing and talking for a while without you realising and then he saw you both fall in the water together laughing and looking like you belonged together. He shook his head slightly as he looked back to Kie who stared with worried eyes.

“You okay Pope?”

“Yeah, yeah I’m fine just thinking.” Kie nodded going back to talking to John B until a shout erupts and they both turned to see JJ and you in the water. Pope was already looking.

“Lil red what the fuck?” He laughed shaking off his hair while you rung your own out still looking amazing to Pope.

“You said I was boring.” You shrugged chuckling and then screeching as you were pushed back under the water.

“I’m honestly surprised they’re not together yet.” Kie laughed looking at the two other boys beside her.

“You think they like each other?” Pope asked worry pinched in his eyebrows. It was one thing for him to think it but for Kie to confirm his thoughts made his stomach churn.

“Well yeah, I mean look at them.”

Pope was looking at them. And he saw it clear as day. You and him were never going to happen.

You breathed heavily as you and JJ walked up the steps to the docks. “Hey I know what we can do to help get your mind off of Pope for a night.”

“What?”

“A kegger.”

    THE PARTY HAD started two hours ago and was roaring with teens, kooks and Pogues alike hung together for one night filled with truce, beer and weed.

He had left you a few minutes before to pursue a girl of course while you sat around a bonfire staring at the embers that floated into the midnight sky. But you were still thinking about him. He was stuck in your thoughts like superglue. You'd hoped that maybe alcohol would help loosen you up and get you out of your head but being alone and drunk made it worse.

Pope stood by Kie as you sat at the fire by yourself. Now was his chance to tell you and maybe you would like him back but if you didn't then maybe it would be less embarrassing since you were drunk. However he was not drunk since he abstained from the beer despite the multitudes of parties they had. He was the designated driver type.

"I'm gonna go over to Y/N." Kiara nodded before she continued talking to a random boy that sat next to her.

He walked across the sand catching your attention as you snapped your head up to see him heading your way.

"Hey Pope."

You were surprised he left Kie.

"You looked a little lonely so I'm giving you company."

"Oh Thankyou. My saviour." You said jokingly. Taking a swig of beer you examined the boys face. It twitched with nerves as he sat next to you and fiddled with his fingers.

He looked up at you with a small smile. “Y/N, I—”

“God, girls around here really have a good left hook.” JJ groaned holding his face sitting down next to you on the log interrupting Pope who he hadn’t noticed.

Then JJ looked up to see Pope sitting there awkwardly and you almost laughing at the fact that he got punched by a girl which never happened before. “Oh shit sorry I didn’t realise...”

“Realise what?” You asked shaking your head cluelessly before you dragged yourself up. “I need another drink.”

JJ tried to stop you but before he knew it you were at the keg with him following after.

“Uh, Lil red, I think Pope might’ve been about to tell you he liked you.”

“Wait, what? Really?” You almost dropped your beer as your hands went slack in shock but you quickly gripped it tight swallowing some. Pope stared into as you had walked away from him with JJ following. Of course he was going after you because like Kie said, they liked each other. He wanted to see if he could forget, so he did something he would probably regret.

“I’m pretty sure I mean he looked like he was going to. I really need to talk to him...” The blond trailed off as he stared at something behind him.

“What is it?” You were about to turn around until JJ held your shoulders in place until your shoved them off and saw what you never wanted to see.

Pope was kissing a girl. Not Kie though. It was just a random girl who he was kissing. Your eyes burned with tears as you turned to JJ scoffing.

“Yeah he definitely likes me doesn’t he.” You choked back a sob shoving the beer into JJs hand and running off into the trees.

Pope has pulled away just in time to see it and instant regret filled his stomach.

“Pope, buddy, what did you do?” JJ asked softly as Pope looked at his walking away from the random girl who looked taken aback.

“I’m so sorry.” He apologised and she rolled her eyes walking off. “I don’t know what was going through my head, one second I was at the fire the next I was kissing a random girl.”

“Look, bro, just go find her and explain everything.”

“Yeah, I’ll—I’ll do that.”

You had walked the farthest you could from the party, still bare foot since your shoes were in the van and John B had the keys. You were leaning against a tree trunk when you decided to go to the one place that would comfort you most despite reminding you of him.

You went straight home taking 20 minutes to walk down the cold desolate roads that were dark by this time. The first thing you did was get ice cream from the freezer before making your way to the tree house and wrapping yourself in the blankets befor leaning against one of the many pillows stored there. You listened to the gentle breeze above rustling the leaves of the blooming trees and the crickets in the distance and felt the gentle swaying of the platform beneath you.

This was your comfort place. It was the only place you felt like this since it was where you created all your favourite memories with Pope Heyward. The unattainable boy who had always been by your side.

By the time Pope made it home it was completely dark but he knew exactly where you would be. He made his way to his backyard and saw your small figure and made his way up. You sat up quickly and almost burst into more tears after seeing him.

"Y/N..."

"Pope what are you doing here?" You asked as he climbed up the ladder.

"I came to check up on you..." He sighs and sits down next to you. "And I came to say that that kiss was a big mistake."

"Why—what?" You looked at the boy in confusion.

"I like you. I know we've been best friends forever and I hope this doesn't make it weird but that's the truth. I kissed the girl to see if I could forget about you which in hindsight was really stupid. And you probably hate me."

You looked at him with glossy eyes and smiled.

"Yeah that was stupid if you thought you could get over me.” You laughed which died down when you turned to him looking more serious. “But I don’t hate you. It’s not like we were dating.”

“I was thinking...we could change that.” Pope tells you and you raise your eyebrows, a growing smile on your face.

“Hmm okay. Date. This friday. On the beach. You and me?" You asked and his eyes lit up feeling slightly surprised at the forwardness.

"Isn't it supposed to be me asking you out?" He asked teasingly.

"It's the twenty first century pope get with it."

"Of course. And I would love to go on a date with you.”

“Good.” He then jumped on top of you in all your blankets and you let out a shriek. “Oh my god, Pope are you trying to simultaneously give me a heart attack and break this thing?”

“Not really, but if it happens then oh well.” He feigned nonchalance for a second breaking into a grin as you slapped his arm.

“Watch it mister. Or I’ll reconsider that date.”

“Okay, I’m sorry Y/N.”

You sighed contently as he wrapped you up in his arms, both of you under the blankets and the stars. You could definitely get used to this.

Note • In honor of simping for Pope and jd day, year, decade and century i’ve written this cause he’s a cutie and I love him. This was kinda anticlimatic but 🤷‍♀️

[salty-fang]

Loving you is hard

So, this idea spawned from a conversation with @iloveitwhen and I've just wanted to write it. So without further ado...

“I- Would you like to me out go? I mean me out you? I mean go out with me? On Sunday?” They’d been best friends for months after he’d saved her from Chloé and her posse, although not before she had been smeared in mud and had her spectacles smashed, lying askew. They had jeered at her, screaming ‘Piggy’, only relenting once Adrien charged out of the mansion, hurling himself in front of her. Chloé had turned and ran leaving Sabrina, Kim and Max in the forefront of his rage.

After he had delivered his lecture spectacularly, he ushered her inside, getting her a towel to dry the mud off. He’d given her a spare pair of clothes that used to belong to his older sister, Claire, before she had been adopted. Of course, his father had been slightly disappointed once he recognised who she was as he frequented the bakery quite a lot. He tried to belittle her calling her a ‘mere baker’s daughter’ which was personally a compliment. And, he chewed her out for interrupting an important meeting with THE Bruce Wayne- whoever that was. Adrien had been a gentleman and sneered in defiance at Gabriel’s discourtesy but she could see how white his fists were and how hard he had been biting his lip. And she could never have him get in trouble for her mistake so... she did what she knew best.

She cried. You see, she had inherited quite the set of pipes and her cries had made the pointless vases tremble as her wails caused the pictures to shake. She placed Adrien’s hand in her own grubby little ones before pulling him away into the first room she saw. Failing to notice Emilie’s small smirk at the chaos she invoked and failing to hear Adrien’s desperate pleas for her to stop. Tentatively, she opened the door, sighing in relief at the sight of the empty room. It was slightly breath taking but intimidating at the sheer size of the room but the presence she felt behind her and Adrien’s wide eyes plagued her.

“When you said you would be getting ready to spar, did you mean that? Or were you out gallivanting with some girl?” Yup, that was it. His voice commanded respect, leaving no room for argument. His face was stoic and he exuded confidence yet his demeanour was cool. He had the ability to blend into the shadows, which admittedly scared the socks off of her. And he was even colder than Chloe. But so was she. She had never been proud of it but it was there. It was just too hard to reign in once she exposed that side of her.

“Some girl, huh? It’s Marinette Dupain-Cheng to you. Talk to me when you’ve had a shower and you don’t look like you haven’t changed clothes in a year. You think just because your friends with Agreste I’ll be polite whilst you insult me? If you do, well congratulations because you’ve invented a new kind of stupid.” She could see Adrien wince out of the corner of her eyes, the look of appraisal in Damian's eye before he turned a frightful glare towards her with the top of his lips curled in a sneer as he scoffed.

“You think you can waltz in here and interrupt my meeting with Agreste because you think you better than me. Because newsflash, and I know all about them, you may be pretty than most child models but you’re still an arrogant deceitful brat, Marionette. So why don’t you go back and roll in the mud, Piggy.”

“Damian that’s enough,” pleaded Adrien, voice strained.

“Is it though? She hardly looks phased.” It wasn’t true, it had hurt more than she had thought it would and she felt each word pierce her heart, breaking her down.

“He’s right though Adrien.” She saw the shock on both faces as she trained her eyes on the ground before locking her eyes on Damian. “But at least I’m honest about it. And I know the reality is going to slap him so hard in the face once he finds out he isn’t as amazing as he thinks.” She gave Adrien a quick hug before turning to leave, grabbing her pink purse from the couch. She could feel her temper flare up as she walked away, knowing that she could have easily won the battle. She- a Dupain-Cheng- had run away from a challenge. The only reason she had lost was because she’d been in unfamiliar territory and she wanted to make a good impression on Adrien.

Adrien! He probably thought she was annoying. Or weird. Maybe both. Definitely both. He’d probably tell his parents how weird she was and get a restraining order placed on her. She’d never defeat Damian and Adrien would hate her. Her parents would probably disown her too. Oh no. She’d be a lonely cat woman living off scraps in some alleyway. Everyone would forget about her and Adrien would marry Chloe. Chloe! She had been in such a state that she hadn’t seen Emilie walking towards her, engrossed in her new script.

“Hngh. Sorry about that. Oh, you’re the girl who told my husband off. Ni-chickpea why are you crying? Aww, come over here princess.”

“I’m sorry for everything. Sorry about crashing into your home, sorry for being the rudest guest ever, sorry for interrupting your meeting, sorry for being ugly.”

“Did Adrien tell you that? No? Well, you’re beautiful inside and out, chick. Don’t cry because of some stupid boy who has no filter. Now, would you like to grab some ice cream with your auntie Em.

“No thanks. My aunt, Delphine, said no one likes girls who don’t have tiny waists. She told me that I’d be more pretty if I lost weight so I really shouldn’t. Or she might tell my father if I gain any.” And with that, she scrambled off her lap with a surprisingly agile leap and ran out of the mansion. Emilie hadn’t decided whether she’d like to launch Delphine into the sun or sock her across the face but she knew that she’d be having a few choice words with her. When she got in contact with her.

It really wasn’t a surprise when months later, Marinette, who had become a regular guest at their home arrived in a flood of tears, explaining how her aunt had booked her for a flight next week to go and live with Tom and Sabine, neither of which knew she’d existed until today. Obviously, Delphine had done it because of her conversation with Emilie and her selfish ideals. Tom and Sabine both had been reluctant, and that was putting it mildly, to take her in reaffirming the fact that they had wanted no children. Although, their empathy ultimately won as her sister told her she would put Marinette up for adoption or even leave her homeless, alone to fend for herself.

It had come as a surprise to both Damian and Marinette who had actually reconciled after getting off on the wrong foot, but it didn’t stop the occasional glares or the brusque and impatient nature of Damian. However, Marinette had been too blinded by her crush on the cinnamon roll for her to realise that his iciness hadn’t completely thawed. Sure, he could tolerate her but he didn’t necessarily like her. He just put up with her because she was acquainted with Agreste, which led to many many third wheeling situations like now.

“I- Would you like to me out go? I mean me out you? I mean go out with me? On Sunday?” He actually had the audacity to snicker at her being tongue tied but a small part of him wanted her to get rejected. He liked their dynamic as it was, there was no need to complicate it with stupid feelings. The atmosphere felt tense and awkward, both things he had no idea how to deal with so he waited on the doorsteps of the rose garden’s entrance, which was a terribly cliché place to confess. If he knew Agreste, Marinette would come running with tears streaming down her face in

5...4...3...2...

There she came, her steps thundering down the narrow pathway as leaves and thorns entangled themselves in her hair. And if he knew Dupain-Cheng, she’d tell him the reason behind her tears in

3...2...1...

“He rejected me. He called me Piggy. It’s alright if you say it but it hurt when he did, it hurt. Do you think he said no because I’m not pretty or skinny enough?” She whined, pounding her puny fists against his chest.

‘Damn it, why couldn’t it be Grayson? He was always more suited to dealing with emotions than I ever was.’ He awkwardly patted her hair, humming a tune his mother would sing to him before she disappeared. It always seemed to soothe him and even when he hated Drake, he’d begrudgingly admit that he calmed him down when he was being bratty but never catty.

‘That word is reserved exclusively for Selina.’ He shuddered at the thought of being so closely linked to Catwoman.

‘Never again. Never. Again.’

“What’s never again?”

“Huh?”

“You were muttering it pretty hard under your breath.”

‘Yeah and you switched from upset to bubbly but ain’t nobody questioning you.’

“Uh yeah. I meant no boy will make you cry ever again except for me. And if they do, I’ll come right over and make you smile.” What was he saying? Why wouldn’t he just shut up? Now she’d think he was serious and she probably wouldn’t stop pestering him about it.

“Promise?” she cooed; her doe-eyes narrowed owlishly at him.

“Promise.” Man, he hated being caught off guard. It made him do some admittedly stupid things. Stupid, illegal things although in his defence, when was he not doing something illegal. It was literally his defining element and didn’t each boy who made Ma-Dupain-Cheng cry know it. Adrien had been lucky to escape with a tiny bruise on his forearm because of Marinette’s pleas, but he’d spare him no mercy next time.

In the span of six months, he had had more social interactions with Dupain-Cheng-the name was becoming such a mouthful that he considered calling her Marinette- than he had had in his entire life span. However, his presence was made redundant in the last 3 years as he hadn’t gotten any indication that she was still alive. No texts, no impromptu 3am calls, no nothing. She’d disappeared without a trace and whilst he felt relieved to be rid of his persistent acquaintance, he missed the fun and chaos they’d create.

With her unbridled creativity and his cunning and quick wit, none of his family were any match for them. They’d hide in vents, find secret passageways, watch security and not once would their whereabouts be detected. But now, he had no partner, no alibi and no one to build a pillow for with him. It seemed so childish but it was comfortable and alleviated the stress and pressure on him, giving him a chance to regress back to a childlike mentality. One he never experienced even after he broke free from the League’s clutches.

Even when Marinette despised him, she’d still soothe him when the memories became too vivid which was her biggest flaw but one of her redeeming qualities. She had no reason to help him, there was nothing to gain from his former arrogant egotistical ten-year-old self but she still voluntarily to calm him down.

When he would have trouble breathing, she’d stay with him, helping him even out his heart rate. When he would tussle with the sheets at sleepovers, she would lie awake with him, huddling herself closer to him before humming a sweet yet sharp harmony, lulling him to sleep. He would occasionally feel the light kiss on his forehead but was completely oblivious to Marinette slipping from his grasp.

She’d be sprawled on the floor near to him, looking tense and completely uncomfortable and yet she’d have a semblance of a smile etched across her face. He always had found it quite foolish but secretly endearing.

He'd been ignorant to think that she’d always be that close to him Always there to give him a much-needed hug even if he wrestled out of embrace. That she’d always be that close to him, running to him at his beck and call. The bleak reality slapped him across the cheek. The dwindling conversation was evidence enough that she’d be glad to finally be rid of him. He heard from Adrien that she had still been in contact with him regularly enough to know the ins and outs of her situation. He genuinely thought she was dead, although it was becoming more increasingly clear that she was wilfully ignoring him. Which stung. A lot.

Five years ago, Marinette was a bawling mess in Damian's arm. Three years ago, she had last heard from Damian. He seemed as though he was bored of their conversations yet Adrien had been telling her otherwise.

Adrien, Adrien, Adrien. The boy was oblivious as ever, even going as far to budge her in Damian’s direction.

‘Pfft! Damian, he’s blunt as hell but too nice for his own good. He’s cold yet he shows more empathy than everyone else I know. He’s warm and his hair is to die for. I love how soft it is when it’s not gelled back. But even if he is all that, Adrien’s held my heart for all these years and I’m not going to let some fluttering feelings, that Damian probably doesn’t return, ruin all my progress.’

Her progress consisted on growing out of her shell (and growing out her hair), experimenting new outfits and lip gloss. Plus, she learnt how to cook meals and bake pastries with her parents so that was a great thing that came out from those years of isolation. She’d also lost some weight and had been cutting back on the carbs, so when she had landed back in Gotham, she had been shocked to see a pile of high carb, fatty foods awaiting her. Her arms itched to try one and she was quite tempted to delve right in for old times’ sake but the look her aunt gave her stopped her short. A smug smirk, a haughty scoff and the condescending shake of the head was enough to send Marinette out without lunch. Oh well. She could always pinch some off of someone else.

Behind her, she could hear snippets of two distinctly female voices.

“Ugh... fat ass. Skirts too short.”

“Attention seeker.”

‘No, I’m not.’

“Bitch.”

‘Please, not again.’

“Rip it off. She’s practically parading around in her knickers anyways.”

‘Please just, leave me alone.’

She could hear their footsteps and their heavy breathing before blood-curdling squeals ripped through the air.

“IT’S DAMIAN WAYNE!” They shrieked, making her spin around in a daze. Surely it couldn’t be who they thought it was. They were just mistaken. Because, there was no way that this dude towering over her was the same guy who was incredibly shorter than her years ago. It couldn’t be. The guy with a jawline that was sharper than glass couldn’t be the same baby-faced Damian she knew. But the thing that caught her off guard was the mischievous gleam in his glowing green eyes. She’d recognise his beautiful eyes anywhere.

“What do you have to say for yourselves?” So that was new. His rather high-pitched tone replaced by a soothing baritone bass. It had been enough to send her into a trance but she was shocked out of her stupor when she felt a tug on her arm.

“Careful idiot. You nearly walked straight into traffic and you don’t want to turn into roadkill now.” He hissed. She could feel the pout on her face and the light flush of her cheeks at his proximity but willed herself to march on.

“You’re fine,” said one of the girls, trailing her finger down his chest. Marinette could feel her stomach churn in embarrassment plus jealousy and stopped in her tracks to rescue Damian from an awkward situation.

“That’s not what I asked though. Are you not going to apologise?”

“To who?”

“To her. You just insulted her for no reason and you’re tryna walk away.”

“Sorry.” They huffed before flashing strained smiles at Damian. They would have left if it wasn’t for Marinette’s intervention. And it was a sassy one at that.

“Last time I checked you insulted me. But it sounded like you were apologising to Pretty Boy over there. Aren’t you gonna say sorry to me or were you just being insincere?"

“We’re sorry.” They chorused after a few pointed glares from Damian yet that didn’t stop them from muttering the word ‘bitch' under their breath as they walked away.

“Hey Mary, you short stack how you been doing? Haven’t seen you for 5 years and of course you stopped speaking to me for about 3 but, hey, we move.”

“Actually, I thought you didn’t want to chat with me anymore so I stopped. And did your Dad force you to attend every ‘slang lesson' available because you actually talk like you’re genuinely our age. And Damian, learn my name. It’s been 5 years and you’ve said every variation of names that aren’t mine.”

“But how else are we gonna have our inside jokes.”

“By firstly using something funny. And remove your hand from around my shoulder, people are going to assume we’re dating. Especially with how fickle everyone here is.”

“I mean is there really a problem with us dating?” he said, wiggling his eyebrows.

“Yes, you know I love Adrien. We can’t give him the wrong idea about us.”

“I forgot, I promised that I’d help tutor the exchange student, Lila Rossi, I think. I’ll see you later?” And with that he slunk off, which in all honesty was pretty weird. Damian offering to help a random person? It sounded like more of an excuse. But she had to find Adrien first. To show him how much she’d changed. She’d dyed her hair to an inky black with tints of blue, gotten her ears pierced and actually wore skirts and dresses now. She’d savour his shocked pikachu face for ever with how speechless he’d be.

When she was about to wander the yard when she saw his blonde mop of hair glitter in the sunlight. She moved from an idle stroll to a brisk walk before breaking out into a sprint. But the sight in front of her made her blood boil as she heard Adrien scream...

“Hey, Piggy!” He had pulled a person, who was obviously not her, into a hug before gazing admiringly into their eyes. Eyes which were slightly prettier than hers. Well, it was always better to blend into the background or at least that’s what she told herself.

It didn’t explain the churning in her stomach, the tears pricking the corners of her eyes or the fact she’d choked on her spit.

What the hell was going on?!

Note

Lila Rossi and Marinette don't know each other, but it was convenient to use her in this situation.

This is also separate from Twisted Fate.

[danishmiilk]

too late, it’s gone, it won’t come back 💍🥈

genre || angst

pairing || lucas x reader

warnings || 1 (one) swear word

summary || you’re too late, always second place. who knew being late in telling him your feelings would cause you to lose him forever?

word count || 2.2k

she couldn’t help the smile that tugged at the corners of her lips as she watched lucas, dashing as usual, emerge from behind the doors of the ballroom. he looked radiant, waiting beside the door with the widest smile she’d ever seen on his face, and the wedding march started to play.

a girl walked through the open doors, a flowing white dress kissing the floor with its hem. she looked like she was gliding… on the clouds that formed her dream. a lace-edged veil framing her face, flowers adorning her hair and a smile on her face that could rival the sun, she was the epitome of a perfect modern bride. her smile dropped.

and that girl wasn’t her. that girl, song minseo, was lucas’s true love, his romantic soulmate, while she was merely his best friend. song minseo would be the one lucas was kissing at the end of the day. she would be the one smiling at lucas, blissfully in love while the best friend was making the speech. minseo’s hand would be the one lucas was holding, her waist the one lucas’s arm was around, her the one lucas was dancing with. while she had to make the speech, sound happy, and share stories of the loving newlyweds.

pretend to be happy that the boy she’d been in love with for all of her life had married someone else.

pull yourself together, she told herself silently. even if you’re in love with him and he doesn’t know that (and never will), you’re still his best friend. to love is to want them to be happy.

there once were fairytales, foolish tales, of princes and princesses and love at first sight. it lied to her, lied to them. they only showed one side of love, soft and sappy, ignoring the fact that there would be someone, someone grievously hurt, someone who was not part of the couple. as a little girl, she had dreams of walking down the aisle into the arms of her prince charming, then waltzing off together into the sunset. but her forever ended before it could even start.

to love is to destroy, she thought. it didn’t build you up, it tore you down. love was cruel, she decided. it wasn’t your fault, or the fault of who you fell for, but the fault of the universe, the fault of the stars. oh golden aphrodite, greek goddess of love, how she enjoyed playing games with unsuspecting mortals! how amusing for her, to play the occasional joke, break the occasional heart. make people fall for someone who could never love them back.

she was fated to be the best friend, fated to never be the one his world revolved around. and she was, she did a good job of it. so much so that her ears perked up at the soft melody that now floated into her ears- she knew this song. of course she did, she helped lucas pick it out. but this meant it was time for her speech. it was time for her to yum seng and toast to the happiness of the new couple, time for her to start putting on the performance of a lifetime. oh, i don’t love lucas. oh, how i hope him and minseo live happily ever after, and am totally not bitter that i’m not his bride! the words sounded foolish, even in her own head.

she was twenty three. twenty three when lucas called her one day, and told her he wanted to propose to his girlfriend, and asked for her help. she left him on read for slightly over two hours, busy calling sicheng and crying, picking up the shards of her broken heart. but she couldn’t ignore him forever; she may love him, but she was still, as always, the best friend. and she had a role, a part to play in the play of his life. she texted him back, telling him how happy she was for him, and made plans. with him. for his proposal. to someone else. and then she carried them out. she picked them up from the airport, remembered minseo’s flight information, and then held the camera when lucas got down on one knee.

she would not let tears prick her eyes. this was lucas’s day, are you going to cry on lucas’s day? she asked herself. when did i even start loving him?

the kindergarten playground was filled with children on the first day of school, but she sat by the swings, alone. lonely. and homesick, of course. she knew she shouldn’t be crying over going to kindergarten, but she really did miss her home and her mother. she wanted to make friends, yes- her older brother had told her how amazing friends were, but she didn’t dare to speak up and talk to other children. nobody came to approach her too. tears collected in her eyes, but through the curtain of tears she saw a figure getting bigger… walking towards her? wiping her tears, she saw a boy with rosy cheeks and his eyes- they were shining. not with tears, but with happiness. excitement. he talked to her, built sandcastles with her in the sand pit, and pushed her on the swing. and she’d found a friend, a companion. maybe that was when she fell in love with him.

“you’re worthless. useless,” the girl in front of her spat. a fist connected with the side of her jaw. the world spun- or was it just her head? she was used to this by now, it happened everyday and showed no signs of stopping. “what the fuck is going on?” and it was like she’d prayed to heaven to send her an angel, the best one they had. indeed, standing at one side in the afternoon of a day in middle school, he looked like an avenging angel, beautiful and dangerous. her savior. maybe that was when she fell in love with him.

the panicked sounds of stressed college students’ footsteps the day before finals rang through the halls. she was taking it too hard on herself, forcing herself to pore over stacks and stacks of seemingly unending books, submerging herself in the sea of knowledge. “how long has it been since you last slept?” her study partner looked up from his (painfully neat) notes, “sleep.” so she let drowsiness take over her. maybe that was when she fell in love with him.

lucas had always been there for her, every day, every year without complaint. so why couldn’t she just be happy for him, just this once? she put on a phony smile even though her heart was breaking inside, and moved to make the congratulatory speech, trying desperately, and failing even more spectacularly, at actually being genuinely happy for her best friend, the boy who had so selflessly cared for her.

sometimes, people were selfish.

[airis-paris14]

Human Nature 3

Summary: He has a secret and he’s tired of loving her in secret.

Warnings: None

A/N: Here’s part three of the short story. I hope you enjoy! I also tried out a new banner graphic.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

See that girl, she knows I'm watching

She likes the way I stare...

I like livin' this way

I like lovin' this way

- Michael Jackson “Human Nature”

T’Challa grinned as his car pulled into the driveway. He grabbed his suitcase and prepared to surprise Naomi. He’d purposely not called her back this morning and instead flew the first jet he could get his hands on over here. Though he had taken Okoye’s advice and asked one of the pilots to fly him due to his lack of sleep. He took out his keys, and smiled as he heard the bass line of a song bouncing through the house. He turned the key and pushed open his door, grateful that the music would hide his presence for a few seconds more. He shut the white door quietly and left his suitcases by the doors. He slipped off his shoes and tiptoed into the kitchen.

The previous song had ended and he heard her sing along to the intro of the new one. “I am a single QUEEN!,” the king laughed, recognizing the track from one of her recent obsessions. “Oh so you’re single now,” T’Challa teased, giving away his presence. “T’Challa!” Her whole face lit up once it registered that he was standing in front of her. She ran over to him and he scooped her up in his arms. She grinned as he covered her face with kisses. “Hey baby,” he finally replied, placing her back on her own feet. 

“Hi, you weren’t supposed to be back until tomorrow.” 

“I know, I finished my work early and I wanted to surprise you,” the king smiled then cleared his throat, “there’s also something I need to talk to you about, but it can’t wait for a little while longer.”

Naomi’s smile fell, “Okay. I was cooking some leftovers from dinner last night, you want some?” Naomi walked back into the kitchen. T’Challa nodded and simply drank the sight of her in. Her hair was pulled into a large puff and she wore sweats and a t-shirt. She looked absolutely stunning. The new king took a seat and watched as she filled a bowl with pasta for him. Once she was done filling her own bowl. She turned off the oven and walked both dishes over to the island. She took a seat next to him and smiled. 

“How was work?” She asked. 

“It was great actually,” T’Challa twirled some of the pasta around his fork. “I actually got a promotion that I can’t wait to tell you about, later.” Naomi smiled. That's amazing baby! I can’t wait to hear all about it.”

Somehow I doubt that the king thought to himself. “What about you?” he asked his wife. “It was good, I finished up that really big wedding I was telling you about. It was really sweet and surprisingly went off with very few problems.”

 T’Challa grabbed his wife’s hand and kissed it. “You do it every time baby.” Naomi blushed and it caused the man to chuckle. “I also worked with the girls on our wedding,” Naomi revealed. 

“How’d that go? Did you have a venue that you liked?”

“Yeah we narrowed it down to two, I wanted to make the final decision with you though. I’ll pull the profile on them and we can decide now if you want.” 

“Let’s save that for later,” T’Challa smiled.

 “Okay,” Naomi sat back down. “I wanted to ask you though, do you think that I could go on your next work trip with you? I know I probably can’t go work with you. But I could buy my own ticket and I could explore the city and just hang out with you whenever you have free time.”

“I am so glad that you said that. I’m going back home and I want you to come with me,” the king revealed. He knew that this was not the way to address the problem but it felt so much easier than telling the truth. His heart broke a little more as he watched a grin spread across his lover’s face. He needed to start telling the truth soon, or he’d be in too deep. 

“Speaking of home-” Naomi started, “I wanted to know if you wanted to have your family at the wedding. We could start putting away some money for their plane tickets, and I wanted to include your little sister in the wedding party if they were gonna be there. She’s my family too now you know.” Naomi looked up expectantly but T’Challa’s heart was exploding. That right there was why he married this woman. She was intelligent, funny, goofy, and unbelievably caring and generous. He knew that now was the time for him to start telling the truth. He pushed his now empty plate back off the counter.

“That’s actually one of the things that we need to talk about,” the king started. He grabbed him and Naomi’s now empty bowls. T’challa rinsed and placed them in the sink. All the while he felt the heaviness of his statement and Naomi’s eyes following him. “Let’s go in the living room eh?” He grabbed his wife’s hands and pulled her into the living room. 

Once they were settled he took a deep breath. “Baby what’s wrong?” the king felt her hand lightly lift his chin. “This is not easy for me to tell you Nay, but I already regret that we got married and I haven’t told you the truth. I didn’t tell you everything from the jump for selfish reasons, but I am getting ahead of myself.”

Naomi frowned. 

“I do work with the United Nations, that much is true. Every time I told you I was on a work trip I was telling the truth. I was at a United Nations meeting every time. Except this last one. I am not a united nation’s ambassador, I am a leader baby. A nation leader. I am the Leader of the nation of Wakanda.” Naomi’s face took on shock then amusement, “Stop it,” Naomi laughed before realizing he wasn’t laughing with her. 

“What do you mean you are the leader of the Nation of Wakanda T’Challa. Wakanda is a monarchy, you told me so. Or were you lying about that too?”

T’Challa frowned, “When you met me at Essence Fest baby, I was Prince T’Challa Udaku of Wakanda, heir to the throne. I was there with my sister Shuri. Princess Shuri.”

“So when you say you got a promotion-”

“My father passed away, which is why I had to go off for business. I am king now.” 

Naomi let her head fall into her hands. She dragged them down her face as she stood up. “You expect me to believe that I married the prince, no king, of fucking Wakanda! Not to mention that your father, whom you said you hadn’t seen in years passed away and you didn’t tell me, your wife!” The woman fumed. Her hand now covering her mouth in anger and disbelief. “I was supposed to be there for you T’Challa. Comfort you!”

T’Challa watched, guilt taking over as she tried to come to terms with everything. “So you waltzed home early to tell me that surprise you’re a fucking KING and your father DIED and that what I’m a queen?!” 

T’Challa was at a crossroads. Accepting that any response, including no response, would elicit more anger, he cut his losses. “In a more complicated way, but yes. Naomi, I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t you dare ‘I’m sorry me’ T’Challa Udaku, I am pissed. Pissed because I don’t know my husband. The man I fucking promised the rest of my life to. I gave my life to you, and the life I thought we were going to have was half-lie, and the other half just went up in smoke. I mean, we are getting ‘married’ next year. If your father hadn’t died would you even be telling me this? You’d just let us build a life together, me thinking you haven’t seen your family in years. Do you know how hurt I am and for what? Why would you not tell me who you are T’Challa? I told you everything. I married you. I became your wife. I’m going to give you children one day and you wouldn’t have told me that they were in line for a throne halfway across the world.”

“I don’t know what to say, Naomi. I didn’t tell you because I enjoyed not being the prince of Wakanda for once. We had fun that weekend, you didn’t know who I was and I enjoyed just getting to be T’Challa. Wakanda was still pretty closed off so I knew that most people wouldn’t know who I was and tell you. It was selfish and I am so sorry for building this life on a lie, but I am not a lie. The man you fell in love with is still here. Should it matter that I have this title?”

“The title isn’t the problem T’Challa,” Naomi dropped back on to the couch next to her husband, tears running down her face, “the problem is that you lied to me, and now there’s this position that I am going to have to fill that I had no idea about. And, I’m guessing the king can’t live in a different country?”

T’Challa’s face said it all. “That’s where the trip comes in. This week is coronation week in Wakanda. The festival starts tomorrow and I want you to come with me. The decision is yours though, if you want a divorce, we are not ‘legally married’ in Wakanda, so if you do not want to stay with me I understand.

“T’Challa, are you stupid, or are you dumb?” The king and his wife chuckled lightly, “I signed up for better or for worse. Richer and poorer. I’m coming with you, I just don’t like all of the lies that are unraveling right now.” 

“I promise that, that is all of them. Now I just have to explain this to my family and friends back home. I am sure they will adore you, but everyone is going to be very upset with me. I needed you to know first though. We needed to be in this together. You deserved to know first.” 

Naomi nodded and sighed. She leaned her head on his shoulder and breathed in his scent. “I’m pissed, but I love you T’Challa Udaku.”

“I am glad. That you love me Naomi Udaku. I am head over heels in love with you too.” The king kissed the crown of her head. She patted his thigh, “Help me pack,” she groaned standing up off the couch. “Of course my love,” he stood and followed her into their room. 

taglist: @almostpurelysmut​ @blackbypurpose @nyneebee @hutchj @tchoking @sisterwifeudaku @wikiwakanda @royallyprincesslilly @90sinspiredgirl @strictlyashley @afraiddreamingandloving @thedelightfulone @autumn242 @purple-apricots @kumkaniudaku @queertrex @kaciidubs @halfrican-heat @skysynclair19 @dramaqueenamby @gorjiss @leahnicole1219 @kreolemami @mzbritt @yoyolovesbucky @derangedcupcake @builtalongthewayside @ilcb7 @chaneajoyyy​ @lalapalooza718​ @ororowrites​ @leahnicole1219​ @dopegalkk @sarcastic-sunshines​ @sarahboseman​ @shesakillerkween @waitingonafriend​ @faatassbitch

[reading-hub]

[+18] The Maid | Bardroy/angel!reader

I swear this has been in my drafts for three years, and I’ve finally decided to finish it! 😫

Contains: slow burn, smut

A typical American soldier would die doing what is right.

Fight for their country, fight for freedom, and the battlefield that is brutally fought in is no sane place.

However, love is a battle that no one in this world can even defeat against. For it is inevitable, everyone has experienced it. For Bardroy has dealt with it, and now deals with it once again.

— END OF DESCRIPTION —

Her master wanted to meet the watch dog for so long. Said that he wanted to be apart of his inner circle, maybe even have the privilege to shake his hand. She found it quite funny how a forty-something man would have an ideal role model to be a little boy. You've heard of the infamous Queens watch dog known as Ciel Phantomhive. Was known to be the most powerful child in all of England, but has been below the rader recently.

Your master was ecstatic when an invitation of a party came in the mail. Especially figuring out Phantomhive was hosting such party. You’ve read him the letter yourself. It was going to be a classy and sophisticated all the way through. Which meant, you had to wear your nicest and cleanest maid attire, you had to look at least some what presentable.

But there’s one thing you had to keep secret throughout the party. You were an Angel. Before meeting Joseph, he was a scared man, he was suffering from paranoia. He was scared of dying. He knew that people around him would grow suspicious and wonder what’s wrong with him. Possibly take him away from his business...no.

And so he prayed and prayed for someone to come to his life and help him from suffering anymore. He was a man of god, always believed in the slightest of miracles to be an act from above.

He knew that the man from above had the answer to solve his problems....

-

The carriage stopped abruptly, making both of you lean back in forth. Your Master hastily, crawled out of the carriage, the wind blew through his cheeks as he got out the carriage.

You got off the carriage after, trying to catch up with him at the door.

You felt heavy and tense throughout the whole ordeal. Here you were, standing on private property along with your Master, who just waltzed right up to door and knocks. You’ll probably have to apologize to whoever answers for the man’s actions.

For what felt like ages, the door was opened halfway. You saw a tall butler, he was quite handsome but something ached in your stomach about him. Something...very wrong.

“May I help you two?” He spoke, his voice was calm, but it also felt different to you. Joseph couldn’t see it, making you keep your watch on the man.

“We’re here for the party, got an invite, see?” Your Master boldly spoke up, hoisting the invitation up to the butler’s face a little to close. You still felt uneasy.

“Ah yes, your quite early...”

“We can wait for Phantomhive.” You Master interrupted him. “Maybe we can settle in before the party starts, in return my maid can help with anything regarding the party for today.” He added on, while also unexpectedly telling them that you can do as much labor during the course of the party.

The butler let you both in, Coats and other outer attire coming off to bask in the warmth of the manor, however, you felt as though the butler wasn’t happy with guests coming this early.

“Stay here for a moment, I’ll inform my master.”

Now it was just you and Joseph standing around in the empty first floor of the manor. This was going to be quite a long day, especially for you.

The butler who introduced himself as Sebastian, guided you away from Master Joseph as he was talking to Ciel Phantomhive himself, just from looking at Joseph, he was getting uneasy and nervously laughing along with whatever the watchdog was saying.

Before you could protest to Sebastian that you wanted to stay by Joseph at the time, your eyes locked inside the kitchen immediately. Not only that, three servants were carrying about their day as if you weren’t there.

Sebastian must’ve saw this, he coughed to get their attention, their heads immediately turned like deer and fumbled their way in single file, from tallest to shortest right in front of your very eyes. Quite the coordination.

Sebastian introduce them one by one, starting with the shortest one of all: Finnian.

The sweet gardener boy who looked at you with wide eyes, full of innocence and wonder. You couldn’t help but smile in response.

The middle was Mey-rin, the maid of the household with a larger than life personality, whose words and actions were fumbling at every turn, there were times where you could barely make a word. Regardless, you can tell she had a big heart to make up for it.

The tallest, and possibly the one who had you shook slightly, was Bardroy. It wasn’t that he was intimidating looking, it was mainly how handsome he was...

Saying he was the head chef himself. Although just from looking at him, your eyes graced where no lady should at a time like this. It made you think his body was to be trained as some sort of bodyguard. His hands looked black from recent woodwork? Hands were most likely clammy and rough from a hard days of work.

Something you wouldn’t mind putting to the test...

What?? You’ve just met this man! And suddenly all of you’re selfish needs are just pouring out of that dirty gutter of yours that you call a brain. You’re a Angel! A pure minded soul that would never think so sinfully as you as right now! Who would’ve thought being in the human realm for this long has caused you to behave this way...

The servants scattered around the kitchen once more after their introduction with you. Sebastian already told them you were temporary for the remainder of the party, and to not hesitate for your help.

Sebastian was already prepared and handed you some tasks that were centered around the party in some shape or form. You were amazed at how fast he was able to think up tasks for you like that.

Your first task was to helped out Mey-rin at setting up the table for tonight’s dinner, you took the liberty in telling her that you can place the plates and cutlery, meanwhile she folded the napkins and set up the chairs on who was sitting where tonight.

You than helped Finney with decorating around the main floor, to make things a lot more festive.

Lastly, you helped out the with presume head chef of the manor, Bardroy. You were both tasked with making small party favors for the guests, and pour champagne into small glasses, that you would later give out to the guests during the party.

Things started off tense and awkward to say the least. You tried to look as professional and fair as much as you could, but his handsome dopey face got to you every time.

Why was making conversation so hard with him? It wasn’t the fact that everytime Bard did something comedic by accident, it made him so cute and lovable that you wanted to kiss him!

Uh oh

The party has been going on for about an hour or two. People are starting to socialize with another about wealth and their latest business proposals. Meanwhile, Master Joseph was talking the state of his jewelry business to future potential clients and business partners. Ciel then asking him if he had any on him that he was willing to display for. As the watchdog was possibly interested in any brass knuckle rings that Joseph just so happened to wear.

You smiled at how well things were going for your Master. You on the other hand, were to serve out party favors as you walked around the first floor of the party. People took or denied them, nothing too dramatic happened as you served around.

You made your way back to the kitchen, since the tray you were holding was empty once again, meaning you needed to go back and serve some more.

Bardroy was hanging out in the kitchen as you prepared more party favors. He said that Sebastian didn’t want him to ruin anything during the remainder of the party and just coop out here until everyone left.

Your heart sank as he said that. Does Sebastian really not trust this man with anything? Bard isn’t a helpless child, he’s a grown man whose capable of doing anything if desired, and could do just as well as anything then some fake-shallow butler.

Whoa, where did that come from?

Before you could make Bardroy feel better with your words, a tap on the shoulder stung you in surprise. Speak of the devil.

You turned to see Sebastian, closed eyed smiling to you. “Sorry to startle you, (f/n), but I’ll be taking over as servant now.” Without letting yourself get a word out, the tall butler already picked up the tray you already filled up. Before he was out the door, “You can rest up for the remainder of the party, miss (f/n).”

He was out the door, silence filled the kitchen. Just you and Bard. Alone.

“Yep, just like he said to me earlier. ‘Rest up for the remainder of the party.” He quoted and shrugged afterward.

You were honestly relieved to be resting after all the duties you had to do to make this party look presentable. A break was definitely a blessing. Especially with you and Bard alone together at last—no! None of that!

“So uh, what do you want to do to pass the time?” Bard asked, rubbing the back of his neck. You were flushed by the sudden question.

“I’m not sure...” you thought outloud. “I suppose this free time has given us the chance to get to know each other.”

He looked around sheepishly, smiling in embarrassment. “Right, right..” he loosely said after. He than looked at you, just starring. He knew this would possibly the last time he would see you ever again.

An idea sparked in his head!

“How bout a dance?” He grinned. Startled, the maid just jumped in surprise. Giving her a while to respond back.

“But there’s no music...” You said confused. He shrugged in response. “We can make do, just follow my lead, yeah?”

Suddenly after, his hands hovered over your own, being so closed together contrasted how small your hands were compared to his.

You were so distracted by your own inner thoughts, Bard pulled your body closer him in order to sway with him a lot more easier. This was quite an intimate setting.

Bard took initiative and started to move his feet, making you move your own in order to be sync. Silence filled the room, the thing close to sound was feet shuffling back in forth. Until...

“I don’t mean in any offense but how did your Master get invited? If you don’t mind me asking so early...” His tone sounded hesitant, as if trying not to mess up the moment right now.

You weren’t offended by any means. Joseph had a reputation of being a little different to really understand, making people believe he was mad man of some sort.

“His father had a long history with the Phantomhives, I believe before the young boy was even born..” You tried your best to respond, although you had a feeling it was an empty answer. “I wasn’t around back than, so I don’t know much details...” You quickly said after, Bard simply looked at you with that cute dopey face of his.

“Thas’ fine. I’ve worked for the young master for what feels like a year, and even I don’t know the kid very well, much less his family.” He assured. You mentally sighed in relief. This man is so understanding, and handsome...

Ugh, but can’t just pour your heart out for him. Angels were made to spiritually support humans and purify the human realm in the hopes of making this world a little better. They weren’t made to act sinfully towards said humans! It was wrong...yet so right...

“So, what did you do before working as a maid?” He asked, continuing the conversation. “Um...” you had to lie, while yes, lying is a sin, but revealing that you were a supernatural being was also bad and it made you look crazy.

“I volunteered for church.” You answered. You technically did work for God so it wasn’t a total lie. “Really?”

“Y-yeah, I helped with many lost souls in need of help, and I simply showed them another way to look at life.” You tried to be vague. While also being as truthful, well, almost truthful.

“That’s sounds nice...” was all Bard could say. “What about you? Where were you before?” You asked.

You saw the look in his eyes after asking, he was hurt. Something traumatic happened to this man. It hurt you to see him like that.

“If it’s too hard to bring up, I understand...” You said in hopes to change the subject. The dancing came to a hault. He pulled away from you. Pulled out a match to light up his cigarette. You stood there.

“I was at war. A solider. Willing to die for my country.” Your heart sank. A man like him should never go through something as stressful as that. You stayed quiet for him to continue.

“But I was also reckless on the field. My comrades made decisions that I didn’t agree with. If only they listened...if only I treated them better before...”

“Before they died...” He finished. All you could do in that moment was comfort. It’s what he needed right now. It wasn’t his fault that they all died. He truly believed their blood was in his hands now.

But now wasn’t the time to tell him any of that.

He just needed someone to hold onto.

You hugged his arm, your hand meeting his. This was so much more intimate than a slow dance. You know that he can never forget a day like that, no one could.

You just needed to clear his mind with something else...

“Sorry for making you hold onto me like a child, I ruined our moment together too.” He chuckled, while also self deprecating. You just looked at him, his eyes met yours. He looked at you with timid eyes, he was trying to tell you something.

You than realized what you needed do for him.

Without thinking, you kissed him. An act like this maybe looked down upon as a sin, but it was something you both needed at that time.

This wasn’t for pleasure, it for many things. It showed trust, comfort, a way to enjoy each other for what little time two had. This could be the last you see each other, might as well make it matter.

You pulled away. “Should I keep going?” Without answering, Bard pulled you into his arms and kissed you again. Hands roaming around your body, looking for something to grasp onto. You also roaming around his neck, pulling him into a more intimate position.

Lips still colliding, tongues dancing around each other. Your lips then found a way to his neck, planting small kisses on each spot. He hoisted up on the counter with ease, his rough hands trailing around your thighs and hip area, making his way up to your rib cage and finally your clothed breasts.

Seeing how busy his was with exploring your body, you slowly unbuttoned his uniform, peeling it off of him, only to see that he’s wearing a white tank top underneath, his chest and arms exposed to you. He was built! Well, he was in the army...

Without even realizing, your hands made their way to his well-built chest, the only thing in between it was that damn top!

You looked down noticed you were still very clothed, that needed to changed.

You helped out Bard by untying the back of your maid attire, your arms sliding off the sleeves, pushing the dress halfway down, leaving your corset and clevage exposed to Bardroy.

He was so flustered, it was honestly cute how speechless he was at that moment.

He helped out by trying to untie the corset. Once it was thrown to the side, now all that was left was your undergarments...

With your underwear off, you suddenly heard the metal clanking of a belt buckle. “You sure you wanna keep going?” He asked, his uneven breathing showed how he wanted this just as much as you did.

You gave him a peak on stubble chin. “Yes..!” You were also getting desperate. You were willing to mentally clear Bardroy’s mind in anyway.

With that said, Bard lowered his white pants, his cock fully out there. With all this slow pacing foreplay, your lower lips were drenched, you even felt some of your ‘juices’ cascading down your thigh.

You felt the tip of his member rub up against your entrance, this teasing was getting the better of you. He slowly pushed himself into you. Your mouth made an O shape, you tried to hold back any moaning, but even the slightest pleasure made you quack.

Your tried to regain your balance by immediately holding onto Bardroy as he was still adjusting inside your walls. Your face, resting on the crook of his neck, hands roaming his back for support, and legs instinctively trying spread out to give his member more room to explore your inner walls.

You gave him the go-ahead to start moving. He gave a small thrust into you. With the pleasure kicking in, you hand immediately went to your mouth to hold back any sinful noises that would be considered to loud, the last thing you wanted was to get caught with your chest out there and Bardroy midway fucking you on the counter.

He thrusted in and out of you, and each one had you quivering in pleasure all the more. The pleasure was too much for you to the point where one of your hands started gripping the back of Bardroy’s top.

Hips smacking against each other, the wetness of your lips sounding very noticeable than they should be. His member fit like a glove inside you, as you quietly moaned in his ear, giving him all the motivation he needed to keep going and going for you.

“O-oh B-Bardroy...!” You breathes out heavily, hot breath possibly warming up his neck. It turned him on so much. “Feels s-so good...!” You tried your best to praise him, but all this intimacy was overwhelming for you that it was hard to say anything coherent.

His precum and your own juices collided with one another, you were both in sync at how close you were to cumming.

“B-bard..! I’m gonna...”

“M-me too!”

“Ahhh ~!”

Bard immediately pulled his member out, covering his white juices onto your stomach.

You slowly let go of Bardroy, the counter was suddenly more comfortable than before. Your legs, still vibrating from all the ecstasy and pleasure that just played out moments ago.

Bard pulled his pants up, the buckle of his belt still loose. He left the counter, for something...

He came back with napkins, cleaning any sinful evidence that took place inside your walls or stomach.

Bard helped you out with putting on your clothes, finding any loose clothing that you threw on the floor moments ago.

Although you were clean thanks to Bardroy, and fully clothed, you were still in a blissful state, making walking straight almost a hard task for you. Knowing this, he lifted you up with both arms, finding the closet chair available, hoping for you to be somewhat comfortable.

In the meantime, waiting out the exhaustion to deem down for both of you.

What a night this turned out to be...

[rixxy8173571m3w1p3]

September Song (2/3)

I’m sorry @kitten-wrath that this took so long, but I do hope you like it. @hoodoo12 @xerxezra thanks for brainstorming with me. Also, Ice Cream Rick belongs @porkchop-ao3. References to the flowers can be found here (The Language Of Flowers) and pizza rolls here (Sick Day)

Also, special thanks go to @her-victori for reading a majority of my fics in a short span of time. You Rock! As well to random anons who leave me sweet words in my ask box.

If you haven't read the first part of this fic then here's the link. (Read Part1 Here)

In this fic the reader tries to be more reserved and mature for Rick, but what will he think?

______

Chapter 2: These Precious Days

The mom and pop ice cream parlor which could be found at the edge of town offered over twenty flavors and twice as many topping options. Rick thought you'd prefer this quiet atmosphere over the crowd that would've surrounded Ice Cream Ricks truck in the Citadel; he was right. Though it really was a shame since Ice Cream Rick was actually pretty nice. After ordering, you two sat by the window with the best view of a lonely backroad and a white GMC truck.

“I-I-I like that you went for the rainbow jimmies.” Rick commented as he popped a mini gummy bear into his mouth.

“Hmm? Yeah, I like the texture.”

Which was true, but it wasn't the whole truth. You loved sprinkles on just about any dessert they could be placed on. They were fun, colorful, and your dad's favorite topping. They reminded you of good times. You continued. “And they're a classic. Wouldn't you agree?”

“I-I do. Would you say that y-your favorite flavor?”

Savoring the flavor of your chocolate ice cream, you nodded. “Yeah.”

Smiling softly, he seemed to be ruminating on this information, before storing it away and eating a spoonful of his pistachio ice cream. After a little while, he managed to get a bit of it on the side of his mouth, which made you giggle. And because old habits die hard, you picked up a napkin and wiped his face clean. Under your fingertips, his skin had that masculine roughness that came from constant shaving. Of course, you were familiar with it, but these slight reminders that came about by chance never failed to amaze you.

However, you were quick to pull your hand back because he wasn't a fan of public displays of affection, though it seemed to have the opposite effect, with him reaching out and placing your hand back on his cheek, and leaning into it. “I'm glad y-you were able to come with me today.”

Seeing as the shop owner was in the back room, you relaxed a little. “I am too.”

Rick was always a little funny when he got sentimental, which was why it didn't surprise you too much when his eyes bore through you as he said. “Me encanta estar c-contigo.”

“Rick,” you began, wanting to let this facade go and declare every single word of affection your heart felt inclined to say, but just as soon as you thought you were going to crack, you restrained yourself, and simply said. “your ice cream is going to melt.”

Several beats of silence passed, and he acknowledged what you had said, but he went on. “You - I-I sometimes wish I could carry you in my pocket, and have you look after me all the time, but th-that's silly isn't it? It's not realistic, and that w-would be selfish.”

“If it's you, then I don't think it is. While it wouldn't necessarily be practical to miniaturize me and carry me around, isn't the beauty of a relationship knowing that you're always on someone's mind and that they are out there somewhere caring and thinking about you?”

“Certainly, but what I-I meant to say is that it'd be nice if this was our life. If I could keep y-you and if you and me ugh - all th-the time…we - if we….” he faltered, fixing his eyes on something else in the room.

“You don't mean eating ice cream do you?”

With a sigh, he relinquished the hold he had on your hand, “N-no.” and continued to eat his ice cream; resigned, and slightly embarrassed. You couldn't help but feel a slight disappointment. It's not like he wanted to say the magic words. Right?

________

After ice cream, you two visited the bookstore on the corner of Kinder St and Lavue Ave; which had not only a coffee shop but a toy store connected to it. As soon as one entered into it, you were met with the latest best sellers, books on travel and wellness, as well as souvenirs; it was one of few places that didn't bother you if it was cramped. To your left next to the window were those mint boxes which said Adventure Awaits, and it filled you with gladness as picked one up; thinking of little things you'd put in it after all the mints were gone. For his part, Zeta-7 seemed to know exactly what he was going for, disappearing in the back where all the used books were. Not knowing whether to follow or look around, you just did as you pleased.

Past the Keychain holder, above the box of mini hands, you found a Mister Rogers mug. You loved that wholesome old man who used to teach lessons and play with puppets on PBS; Rick reminded you of him too. On the label, it said that when you added hot water to the mug, Mister Rogers would change from a suit jacket into his cardigan. Seeing as Zeta-7 hadn't returned yet, you decided to buy it and continued to look around until he soon returned with an older book in hand. “I-I-I hope I hadn't kept you waiting long.”

Facing the bookshelf, pulling out books that you were mildly interested in, you answered. “I knew you would show up eventually.”

Noticing the stack of books you had, he asked sweetly. “M-m-mi corazón, do you want me t-to hold those books for you? They look a-a little heavy.”

You weren't sure how long you could keep up this facade of being mature and not melting into a puddle everytime he said things like that, with him being as darling as he was. Nonetheless, you nodded and he lightened the burden on your arms.

“Wow,” he brightened. “I-I didn't know you liked Alexandre Dumas.” And picking out another book, he wondered. “Have y-you ever read this?”

“The Man In the Iron Mask? No,” you admitted sadly. “but when I was in high school I did read about a third of The Count of Monte Cristo. I even have a postcard that my old English teacher sent me from Europe that had a picture of one of the buildings that was used in the movie.”

“That's s-s-so cool. Do - do you enjoy classic literature?”

Wholeheartedly, you replied. “Isn't it the best kind?”

“I-I-I don't know,” he softened. “but I don't know what I'd do without them.”

You thought of his home library then, with its eclectic mixture of languages, colors, and topics, and it made you feel warm in your soul. “If your home library tells me anything, it's that you have a healthy appetite for books.”

He glanced at your lips after you said this, but made no attempt to follow whatever thought which might've come to mind. Instead, you two carried on a lengthy discussion on books, how many were a social commentary of the time period, and how they influenced the world you lived in. For once you didn't have to pretend you knew something you didn't, cause you did know. Quite intimately in fact. And within the small spaces between shelves and bodies, where you'd normally feel claustrophobic, you were safe amongst all the friends you had yet to meet amongst the pages, and with Zeta-7 whose warm words and tall body shielded you from the curious eyes of the cashier.

_______________

A stack of books sat quietly in the back seat of his car. Crickets chirped, and there were random feral cats here and there, but there was only you and him as far as you were concerned. September Song by Willie Nelson played on the car radio as he led you into a natural waltz next to the town lake, and moonlight reflected in his eyes. If you hadn't been so afraid of drowning, maybe you would've preferred to dance on the dock, but like this, it felt right.

Oh, it's a long long while

From May to December

But the days grow short

When you reach September

When the autumn weather

Turns leaves to flame

One hasn't got time

For the waiting game

With your head resting on his chest, he hummed along to the melody. More than once you heard a sniffle but assumed it was just Zeta-7 caught up in the moment again.

Oh the days dwindle down

To a precious few. ..

September, November. ..

And these few precious days

I'll spend with you.

These precious days

I'll spend with you.

You thought every day spent with him was precious, and you had to admit that you weren't sure at the beginning of your relationship if it would've worked out, but you were glad that the both of you took a chance, and had been pleasantly surprised ever since. And after all this time, now that it was the fall again, you wondered what the next year and the year after that would be like; the possibilities are endless. However, your train of thought was broken when Zeta-7 stopped dancing and stood there; covering his face, wanting to disappear.

“Rick?”

“I'm - I'm sorry, but I-I-I-I can't do this.”

“Can't do what?”

“I-I-I can't pretend that everything's o-okay. Something's th-the matter isn't it?”

“No there isn't.” you denied.

“Then why are y-y-you so quiet? Are w-we breaking up? Are you - are you leaving me?”

You literally wanted to smack yourself for being such an idiot. “No! Why would you think that?”

Using his phone, he paused the music and passed a hand through his hair in an attempt to calm himself. “Y-y-you haven't been yourself all evening. I thought for a moment that maybe th-things were alright back in the bookstore, but you - I know y-you were holding back. I know how much you love books, and writing is y-y-y-your passion, but you were hesitant in sharing your opinions on either subject. M-mi corazón,” he pleaded, the lines about his forehead and mouth deepening. “please b-be honest with me. Is this it?”

“No, it's not.”

Your plan, which you thought has been working went horribly wrong. So much for trying to act like an adult for once. Man, you only wanted to entice him, which you somewhat succeeded, but because of your stupid games, you'd led him to believe that you were unsatisfied with your relationship. If anything, you were unsatisfied with how you handled this. “Believe me Ricky, you haven't done anything wrong. In fact,” you sighed, your chest aching from the bloom of anxiety. “you've only been sweet and charming. But I….oh, I was only trying to impress you.”

“Huh? Wh-what?”

“Exactly. Whatever I thought I'd accomplish, it…..I only managed to mess it up. Again. You probably wouldn't get it,” Or maybe he would, but you weren't feeling like yourself. “but sometimes I feel like all you did was pull me out of my little bubble so I could wreak havoc. I'm not any different from hundreds of other versions of me, am I? Cause, if I'm like them, then how did I end up with you? How did I get so lucky to be with someone so wonderful? I hope they are happy because I am with you.”

With a hand pressed over his heart, a single tear made its way down his cheek. “M-me too. I'm so happy with you.”

“Somehow, despite all my inadequacies, you want me. I mean, is it stupid to believe that I just wanted to be different from all those other copies? That I just wanted you to think I was mature?”

Zeta-7 looked at you with a wistful hope in his eyes.“No, it's - it's not stupid. You - you did that f-for me?”

“Who else dear honey man of mine? Maybe it can't be helped and I'll just be what I am,” you confessed. “but for a moment I wanted to be different. So I gave myself the look and didn't overreact. And most of all, kept my mouth shut so you wouldn't get bored of my rambling. I know I talk too much.”

“N-no, that's not - have I led you t-to believe you weren't good enough?”

“Not on purpose, but I can't help but feel that way sometimes. We both know I'm not that special. I mean, the only impressive thing I've ever done is eat 37 pizza rolls, and not kill the flowers you gave me. I'm so sorry,” you cried, “I'm sorry you got stuck with an idiot.”

He pulled you in for a tight embrace, smoothing out your hair. “D-don't ever say that.��� he cooed. “You're - you're clever, lovely, and always give me something t-t-to smile about.”

“Anyone can do that.”

Pulling back a little, he gave your shoulder a squeeze and softened. “N-no, not at all. Y-you give away dreams, smiles, and kindness. You're reliable, and I-I can trust you. And there is no one in the universe th-that could compare t-to you when it comes to being the perfect woman. If anything, I'm th-the defect here.”

“No, you're perfect Ricky.”

Placing a lock of hair behind your ear, he continued. “I'm glad y-you think so, but this isn't a-about me. You - you dressed up today, in a-a elegant dress that I'd n-never seen before,” and pressing a kiss behind your ear, he whispered with a little gleam of pride in his eyes.. “wearing the perfume I-I-I made you. Smelling like a-a dream.”

Again, how anyone considered this charmer a doofus you'd never know. “I had been saving it for a special occasion.”

“Everyday with you is - is special.”

“Oh Rick. That's…thank you.”

Pointing at your feet, “And I noticed that you're closer t-t-to my height today, but your feet must be hurting by now. Would y-you like to take them off?”

Oh, your feet were screaming. And now that you weren't pretending, you slipped out of your shoes which made you lose about four inches. Picking up your shoes and shoes and dusting them off, he continued. “That must feel better. I-I-I had to wear heels for a case once. It ugh - it's not practical when y-y-you have to run.”

“Right? I don't see how other women do it, cause I can't. I'm not even sure why I own them. I should just burn those things.”

You'd say it was half relief, half joy that made him laugh wholeheartedly at this, and you didn't see how it could be so funny. You poked him and pouted, and he delighted in this. “See?” he chuckled, looking at you in that funny way he did from time to time.

“See what?”

“This. This is th-the girl I fell in love with,” he stated matter of factly. “the one who likes t-to be comfortable, speaks her mind and prefers those jeans with th-the rip on the side. Not to mention those graphic t-shirts. Or cute pj's.”

Your breath caught a little at this confession. How could the smartest man in the universe adore an impertinent person like you? Maybe the same way you could love the smartest man; you just do. In your girlish voice, you said. “I only wanted you to be proud of me.”

Holding you a fraction tighter, he pressed a light kiss to your temple and chuckled sweetly. “Y-you already do princess. Today y-you made an effort for me, and that's impressive, but honestly, I want you t-t-to be comfortable and dress up how y-you like. You as yourself is what impresses me, because you have s-s-so much spirit, and I - that's what makes y-you gorgeous.”

This time you didn't even try to hide your blush.

“Oh Rick, hearing you say that really does make me feel silly. Why did I do this to myself? What was I thinking?”

“I believe y-you're still trying to figure it all out like the rest of us, and I can't get mad at you for th-that because you're wonderfully human. You had good intentions, and th-that's what counts.”

“Can you forgive me?”

“I al-already have.”

TBC

[iimuchakk]

SnB : The adventures of (Reader insert)

Rough starts

☛ Volume 1, chapter 2 of the SnB manga

“He’s the son of an expatriot.” Your mother whispered to you, her face adorned with a soft scowl. As a four year old girl, it was only natural you were confused. The word expatriot had never been used around you since your mother made it her duty to keep you away from people who didn’t contribute to the war in Parthevia. Despite not knowing what an expatriot was, the war was something that had been explained to you. It was necessary in order to make the Parthevia empire great and able to rule over other countries such as the Reim Empire. Everyone in Taison village - your village - had given away their boats, houses, money, everything! In order to help out. You always believed everybody contributed, that was, up until now.

“Mother. What’s an expatriot?” As if she hadn’t meant to use such a word infront of you, your mother knelt down. Placing your tiny fists in her larger hands that gently coaxed over the top of yours. Your mother was one of the most beautiful women in the village and just staring up into her face made you hope you could end up looking like her. Not only did she have beauty on her side, but she was amazing personality wise to. To her, everything was fragile and must be handled with care.

“My sweet little (Reader insert).” Began she. Her voice calm, not even above a whisper as she watched the young purple haired boy toddle from his house over to a near by, small harbor. Currently, both of you were in front of your wooden house. “An expatriot is someone who doesn’t contribute to the war. Someone who is selfish. Only out for themselves. Such a person is pure filthy, disgusting.” Your mother practically spat, seeming to become more agitated as she spoke on. The women seemed to catch onto his, and her eyes glazed over with an emotion you had yet to learn. “Promise me my darling girl, that you will never get mixed up with the likes of an expatriot or any of their blood line. I want you to stay golden. Just like you are now.”

Hearing and seeing your mother being this disapproving towards a group of people practically made your blood boil. You had yet to understand such motives, but you didn’t need to understand anything in order to harbor hatred now did you?

“I promise mother.” You agreed, placing a hand over the top of your heart. “As long as there is evil in this world. I won’t hesitate to help those strong like our soldiers defeat it. That’s the Parthevian way.” The answer seemed to satisfy your mother who stood to her feet.

“Good girl.” She praised, one hand ruffling your hair lightly. The sensation making you smile. “There are some things I need to take care of my sweet. Go inside.” At that, your mother waltzed away without a care in the world. Her thin dress flowing behind her. People parted just to let her walk through them, their heads down. Being the daughter father sure did help circumstances when having very little food and money. Your dad was a loyal Parthevia soldier, he worked hard and earned enough to support both yourself and your mother. Of course, due to his occupation he was biased towards the way your empire worked.

“As long as we work hard we get money. The others hardly work and look where that’s got them. No where. As a soldier I put my life on the line. That’s why we live in the best possible way we can. They just mope around and give things to the empire to assist with the war. Assistance is as good as they get, that’s why, they live as they are. Low.”

His words stuck into your heart like a thorn in a finger. Your father knew what he was talking about after all. He was a soldier and that is why your family is so well respected around Tison village. Unfortunately for both of your parents. Being only four years of age, curiosity was a big part of growing up and knowing about expatriots made you want to investigate further. Remembering your promise to your mother, you decided to stay as far away as these disgusting people as possible. The harbor was quite close to your house fortunately, so if your loving mother asked any questions. You could tell her you were exploring, something you always loved to do.

Venturing to the harbor, your tiny body squeezed between two large barrels and you held a finger to your lips. “Stay quiet (Reader insert), don’t blow this.” It would be amusing if somebody was there to witness it. It seemed as though you were one of those children who told themselves to do something, yet did the opposite without realizing it. Leaning forwards, you listened intently to hear what the two boys were saying. You had a hunch that the purple headed males were father and son. You were four, but not stupid after all. It seemed as though the elder of the two had been fishing judging by his net which was full of the aquatic creatures.

“You’re so stingy daddy why can’t I go!?”

“You’ll be in the way! How can I let a kid ride with me?”

“I’m not a little kid! I’m already five!”

“That’s what the world calls a kid!”

“Why? You stupid daddy!…I just…I just.” Even for you the atmosphere was quite tense. You hadn’t realized your tiny fists clenching on your dress just by watching the scene unfold. Your mother was right, expatriots were truly grotesque. They had no idea how to raise their off spring either obviously, as the child only a year older then you was beating up his lowly father. Huffing, you turned on your heal. Ready to storm away from such a terrible sight.

“I just want to do something for my daddy who only has one leg.” Two things from this grabbed the attention of your tiny self. The first thing was the fact somebody could even have one leg? You didn’t even notice the man was missing one thanks to his long robe. The second thing was the fact such a violent act to turn into something so sweet. It was almost mirroring your actions whenever your father would come home for a day just to go back later. In that short space of time. You wanted to do everything you could to help him. You supposed they were still human. Still trying to cope with hardships. Were they really so different after all?

“I see…so you’ve been worrying about me, huh? This leg is a result of my own actions. It’s no ones fault that I wasn’t strong enough. For me, it acts as a reminder that I’m still alive and kicking. So you don’t have to worry about that, Okay?” The young boy still frowned, causing his father to mimic the action. “What!?” The father started up again, rather comically. “Is there something wrong? Don’t worry!” His arms clasped around the small boy, lifting him gently off the floor. It was a similar position to you and your mother only but a few moments ago. “When your older and a little bigger. I’ll take you out as much as you like! When that time comes! I’ll really put you to work!”

“Daddy~!”

“That’s why kids should take the time to eat and sleep a lot while they can, got it?”

“Yup! Got it!” Though, like all good things. They must soon come to a bitter end.

“Hey! What are you doing?” The one sentence was enough to draw your attention as well as the attention of the two boys. You looked towards a group of new comers. They glared harshly down at the vibrant haired pairing, fists clenched, knuckles white and faces unholy. Your mother, was one of them.

“Don’t tell me…you wouldn’t be fishing here would you?” A man you thought looked familiar began before your mother interjected.

“Badr.” Tutted your mother. “Now not only are you being as filthy as always. But your bringing your son into your ways to? How predictable.” The elder purple haired male who you now knew as Badr. Stayed seated on the floor beside his son. Ignoring the harsh words and instead smiling.

“Oh! You guys are from the village right? What a coincidence that we meet here…is there something wrong with us fishing here?” As soon as those words left his mouth, a string of vile sentences came from the other villagers of Tison village including your mother.

“All you care about is fishing!”

“Hmph…no shame!”

“You have some nerve!” Finishing it off, your mother sneered. Her usually perfect face rivaling that of a monster. You had never seen such ferocity rise up from somebody you were so close to. It scared you.

“Filthy expatriot!” A few more “expariot” slurs followed afterwards from a few more people. The hostility only rising. You thought…No you hoped, that was it over and finished. That such verbal abuse had finished the argument. Badr said nothing back, keeping his calm, one of his arms raised over his young son to keep him shielded but your mother seemed to want to teach Badr more of a lesson then you desired her to. With a swift click of her fingers, men began piling over. The one you had recognized earlier being the main attacker. Using his bulky hands to grasp at Badrs clothing, his fists collided with many different spots on his body including his defenseless face. Your tiny (Eye color) eyes widened. Hands instantly clasping over your mouth to muffle out your cries of protest. If your mother knew you had broken your promise, you would be in big trouble. The sound of flesh being hammered down on was enough to cause you to cringe, was this truly what expatriots deserved? Your young mind couldn’t comprehend such abuse and before you knew it. Beautiful laughter rang out across the clearing.

“W-what’s so funny?” The attacker asked in disbelief. Badr simply continued to laugh, the smile never leaving his face.

“Haha…sorry, sorry. For a bunch of villagers, you guys are overzealous about the war.” What kind of fruit was that? “It made me laugh. Unfortunately, I have no interest in what’s happening to this country.” Base paused for a second, catching his breath before continuing. “Will tomorrow be a clear day? Do I want wine with dinner? I honestly don’t think of much else. It’s unfortunate for zealots like you.” The disbelief on everyone’s faces was obvious. You knew expatriots were bad but this. This gave a whole knew meaning to the word traitor it seemed. Growling, your mother whispered.

“You won’t get away with that Badr! Stop Messing around with us!” The final punch, was defiantly the worst. Your body visibly began shaking, staring at the culprit but now, you honestly couldn’t be sure who the culprit was. Was it the expatriot? Or was it the man who had attacked another villager with only one leg and left his son to witness it? The villagers took their leave after practically demolishing Badrs boat, and in order to stay hidden from your mother you crouched lower. Sighing in relief when they disappeared around the corner. After a few more seconds you jumped out quickly from your hiding place. Panic over taking you.

“H-hey you!” Your whole body froze and turned to see who spoke to you. It was he, the young boy who you still didn’t know the name of. “P-please help me! Please help my daddy!” At such a young age, you were torn between the love of a mother and the feeling of wanting to help a victim. Choices were hard, and at that moment you learned the easy way out was always the best.

“No.” You whispered defiantly. Not able to look him in the eye. “Your nothing but an expatriot…”

Later that day, you kept your distance from your mother. She didn’t seem to mind, busy with house work and cooking anyway. Sitting cross legged on the floor, you stayed silent. The plush cushion beneath you keeping you from complaining about having a sore bottom.

“(Reader insert).” Smiling, you looked up to your mother who had addressed you. Her voice seeming to be a lot more caring then it was earlier. It made you feel at ease, knowing that around you. She would always be her true, wonderful self. “I’m sorry to have to ask you my sweet. But could you fill up the jug? I need the water.” Excitedly you jumped up from your seat.

“Of course mother!” Swiftly, you picked up the jar and began running. Your mother always gave you the small jug, knowing otherwise you wouldn’t be able to handle carrying it whilst it was filled with water. Despite this, it was still hard to lug, and even harder fetching water. You were only half way towards the well by now and fatigued weighed down on your body causing you to groan and slump to the floor. “I-I can’t do it…” you whispered. Wanting to cry out for help but you couldn’t see another adult around. Whimpering, you stood to your feet. As if by a stroke of pure luck, you found a small boy around your age also carrying a jug, though he seemed to be doing a much better job. Smiling over towards him you asked rather nervously. “H-hey you! Please help me!” For a moment, everything went in slow motion and Deja vu hit you hard just like if you were running 50 miles per hour into a brick wall. It was him. The same boy who had asked for your help not to long ago. Breath hitched in your throat and almost if ashamed, you looked down. Turning back to your jug, your hands clasped around the edges. Ready to try again but you just couldn’t. Tears pricked at your eyes. All you wanted was for the expatriot brat to leave. This would only give him the right to make fun of you and you wouldn’t allow someone so lowly to belittle you, you just wouldn’t!

“You’re doing it wrong. No wonder your so out of breath.” Golden eyes bore into your own, causing a tiny blush to appear on your cheeks. “Are jugs are the same except mines full of water. I just got back from the well cause I’m a proper man!” That sentence made his eyes flash angrily, but he seemed to hold back. “I’ll help carry mine back to your house and then I’ll come back and fill this one up and take it to mine. How does that sound? Please don’t cry…” Unsure if this boy recognized you or not. You bit your lip using a small finger to whipe your eye free from any tears.

“Do you remember who I am?”

“Of course I do.” The answer came from his lips so smoothly you thought it he didn’t care. “Your the meanie who was mean to me and daddy…” he grumbled. Your eyes narrowed, ready to retaliate to his words. However, before you could utter out any sort of reply, his own chubby hands rested above your own. “But what kind of boy leaves a girl to struggle?” Oh…how cute. Your cheeks heated over even more and embarrassment caused you to look down to your feet.

“My names (Reader insert)…what’s yours?” He was silent for a moment, and you dared yourself to glance back up to the purple haired boy, the joy that emitted from his cheeky grin, caused you yourself to smile.

“My name? I’m Sinbad!”

[ripplestitchskein]

Ok ok ok ok ok so, brilliant chapter for all the reasons this story is amazing in general: well written, poetic phrasing, compelling insight into both their characters. What killed me this time around was the beauty of Killian’s personal growth and confidence in this chapter. Seeing him be so self-motivated and so genuinely proud of himself (in /all/ things, hot damn), and that it all comes from a place of love? 1/13

Like, it’s not him realizing he doesn’t need Emma or self-discovery through hardship and betrayal at her hands, or even really from the torment of Blackbeard’s crew. It’s from a place of encouragement and happiness. And the absolute joy he felt at being able to accomplish things for himself and find what he’s truly passionate about was palpable, honestly. Like I legit felt so happy and proud for him it was so well done. And just to let you know right off the bat, the part that SLAYED ME: 2/13

was Hook courageously going back onto the ship and into Blackbeard’s cabin and realizing his pirate instincts and THIS FUCKING BIT: “Ten years, he thought. Over ten years. Beaten and mocked and harassed, maimed and terrorized, and all it had taken, all he needed for him to finally be the pirate they wanted, to take up his sword and ransack and pillage, was to fall in love.” HE FELL IN LOVE. HE GOT HIS STRENGTH AND FOUND HIMSELF BECAUSE OF THE POWER OF HIS LOVE 3/13

Like, you KILLED ME DEAD that was so precious and beautiful and just made me clutch my chest. And that scene overall, like him laughing and CRYING at the triumphant moment of being able to step back into a place that previously caused him so much pain. Like THAT’S his revenge; THAT’S his victory, and the heart-wrenching loveliness of that scene, how the room was bathed in light and how Killian was just so singularly focused, truly uncaring and unburdened.4/13

Like, frame that whole scene and post it on my wall my god. Pure joy, pure goodness, just… pure and I hate/love you for it. Also just like in general, your metaphors murder me. First the plant, now the sword. Just… he’s so proud of his sword and how you started the chapter with him finding it and then it turning into the narrative catalyst for him to find /himself/. And that Emma was so understanding and proud for him too? Just in general she was so supportive… 5/13

And even when she had her internal moments of selfishness all it took was looking and listening to him and her heart would melt and they just would anything for each other?? They’re so disgustingly, purely in love, like no Edgy relationship dynamics in sight. And she missed him?? And they missed EACH OTHER?? And the fact that you had them voice it, even just to themselves, like again, it’s literally two pure nerds in a castle navigating each other and themselves and I’m so engaged. 6/13

Also, I’m SO glad you didn’t have her chicken out at the last minute about giving him the dreamcatcher. The angst and build up had a purpose because you actually delivered on what you had set up (a radical concept apparently) and how Killian still has remnants of insecurity but he’s also just so much more confident and able to give support because HE’S IN LOVE AND ENRICHED BY THAT LOVE. 7/13

I’m also glad you included their fighting/waltzing lessons, and Killian’s initial realization that what he felt her for was love was also beautifully handled. And I also love you use of their sex scenes as being part of the storytelling too? Like, showing the progression of their relationship through what they try next and how far Killian is comfortable going, and how gradually he’s taking more control and being the giver. 8/13

I feel like it’s all building up to him being “on top” but like not in a purely smutty way but in a, this character has reached a level of comfort and intimacy with the other that’s really satisfying to get to. I’m curious about whether the whole ‘TLK defeating the Dark Curse’ will play into things (BECAUSE HE’S IN LOVE AND SHE’S IN LOVE idk if I’ve mentioned how wrecked I am by that enough) but I trust you to handle things in an absolutely gratifying way no matter where the story leads. 9/13That last scene where she finds the books and her fear of him leaving pop up was also handled very believably. Angsty yeah but I understood it. Of course she would become anxious about his interest in navigation (and I love that you included Killian’s interest in it from the show) but how she eventually overcame her fear as it turned into endearment and tenderness, like how could she ever deny him anything he’s reading books about sex positions what kind of innocent. 10/13And the fact that /that/ scene came about because of his own interest in pleasing her and good he was at it because of a culmination of the experiences you laid out in previous chapters combined with the confidence he was feeling in this one, and how PROUD of himself he was, like genuinely happy and pleased with himself, so comfortable that he called her “love” like just end me. Also, really just loved this meta line: “Fear of the unknown can bring cowardice to even the best of intentions

On the whole, I loved how you handled Emma’s insecurities and inner conflict, and Killian’s misunderstandings that were coupled with him realizing, hey maybe I’m projecting here. And how you had him say their relationship wasn’t a matter of debt and repayment, like for a man whose whole life basically amounted to debts and owing people, the fact that he KNOWS and reassures Emma that /their relationship/ is not and has never been that was great. 12/13

lmao every time I start writing up my thoughts I think, probably just keep it to a paragraph or two this time, find some semblance of chill. And then the more I parse through what I’ve just read and think about all the detail stuff that I loved and I can’t help but gush. This whole fic reminds me of an inverted Beauty and the Beast and it’s amazing. I can’t wait for the last chapter and though I’ll be sad it’s over I’m so happy you decided to write this and that I got to read it. 13/13

I have read this series of messages just in awe over and over and over today. I had a really bad brain day and this was such a source of comfort for me because like, you always get 100% of what I’m trying to do. You pick up on EVERYTHING I try to convey and all the care and detail I put into and that IS SO FUCKING GRATIFYING. Sometimes I feel like I’m being ridiculous, like I shouldn’t take it this far, but then I get your reviews and its all so very worth it.

I love these characters so much and I want to do them justice and make up for some of the failings of the show and fanfiction allows me the opportunity to that, and right mistakes, and take the time and attention to detail I feel they need and that you appreciate it is EVERYTHING to me. If this show has done anything for me it’s made me aware of what is important to me in storytelling and with regards to character and I love love love that I get to do it how I want and have people notice and appreciate it.

Their growth throughout and the small changes are so critical and I want every scene to be important and inform the overall narrative and the character’s throughout, even the smut and that I’ve apparently accomplished that makes me so very happy.

The scene on the boat had me crying writing it. I was so emotional and I felt like that last line could be taken sd..I dunno cheesy or melodramatic rather than absolutely heartfelt as it was intended, and I worried and fretted about it but it was so so so important to me and that you and Liz (and others) makes me feel like it was absolutely the write decision to go with what I wanted rather than pull it back.  

I thought of you writing the waltz, specifically because the songs I listened to while I wrote it were Vanessa’s Dream and Ethan’s Waltz from Penny Dreadful and I will always associate that ship with you because that’s how I started talking to you more and I wanted to put a little piece of them in it. It’s just such a hopeful beautiful moment and I loved it alot.

I want the angst and drama to be realistic, based on the character’s decisions and their lives/backstories and I’m so glad its coming across not just angst or drama for the sake of it.

I really really hope you like the last chapter. Its going to be massive but I think everything will make perfect sense and tie together.

Also I love you a lot.