#clearing out my drafts before the new season drops

[sophsun1]

Evan Buckley vs. Ladders 👨🏻‍🚒 🪜

[theemporium]

[3.5k] luke hits the west coast for his first long roadie of the season with some unsettling feelings about leaving jersey for so long. who would have thought his biggest problem on the road would end up being looking at his caller id over the actual hockey games he was playing? (smut)

series masterlist

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hockey boy: u up?

Luke Hughes had never felt like more of a fuck boy than he did the moment he had sent the text—which was ironic when he was quite literally the opposite of a fuckboy.

He hadn’t even meant for it to come across that way. Genuinely, he did not.

Despite being officially in the NHL for over a month now, this was the first time Luke was going on a roadie across the country whilst wearing the New Jersey red on his back. Most of their away games had been in nearby cities, where they would maybe spend a day or two in another city before returning to Jersey. 

But this was the longest one yet—a full ten days in the west coast for games against San Jose, LA and Anaheim. 

He wanted to say it wasn’t a big deal, that he was used to the life of hockey taking him to new cities and states. But things were different in the NHL. The stakes were higher, the games meant more even this early in the season, things just felt a lot more intense.

But it felt stupid to confess as much to his brother or any of the other boys when he literally played in the playoff games last season, when the stakes were the Cup. 

However, Luke couldn’t shake off the weird intensity of the roadie. He played off Jack’s concerned looks with some bullshit excuse that he was tired, that he was just struggling to sleep these days. It didn’t wave away his older brother’s concern but it got him off his back for a little bit. It let Jack focus on a different concern and not the real reason (that felt borderline childish to admit) that he felt on edge about leaving Jersey for so long. 

And it meant that Luke was laying in the hotel room alone whilst Jack was out with some of the other guys on the team for dinner, embracing the one free evening they had before the game tomorrow against San Jose. 

He had flipped through a variety of shows on the tv and scrolled through endless apps on his phone before he gave in, his finger hovering over the send button before he clicked it.

It hadn’t even hit him how his text sounded until your reply came through a few moments later. 

cherry🍒: damn hughes

cherry🍒: you gonna ask me what i’m wearing next?

His cheeks instantly burned hot, something quite like embarrassment and awkwardness bubbling in the pit of his stomach. 

At least it was hard to focus on the upcoming games when he was too busy thinking about the quickest ways to flee the country and change his identity. 

hockey boy: absolutely not 

Luke’s fingers moved fast on the screen, already drafting up a second message when your reply came through. 

cherry🍒: rude :( 

cherry🍒: maybe I had something special on for you 

And that was enough to make his brain go blank, the sentence he was in the middle of typing long forgotten as he stared at the words on his screen. He almost felt guilty how quickly his imagination came up with images of you back on his bed, just like his birthday party, in something short and sexy and—

He almost dropped his phone on his face when it began buzzing in his hand, scrambling to sit up in his bed as he answered. 

“H-Hello?” He cleared his throat, his face burning warmer when he heard your laugh on the other side. 

“You sound a little caught off, Hughes,” you teased, lighthearted and playful. “Did I interrupt something?” 

“I—no!” Luke exclaimed, though something inside him relaxed when you laughed again. “I didn’t…I didn’t mean for it to come off like that. I swear. I just wanted to talk to you.”

“I didn’t think so considering it’s been five minutes since my last message and you hadn’t replied yet. Not really setting the mood there.” 

He shook his head, his lips twitching upwards. “So you’re saying you’re not wearing something special for me?” 

“Unfortunately not. Just some sweats and a hoodie.” 

“Hm,” Luke hummed before frowning, taking a quick glance at the time on his phone before he swore under his breath. “Shit, I didn’t wake you up, did I?”

You laughed and something in his chest tightened as he imagined the soft smile on your face as you did so. “No, I couldn’t get to sleep. I was just watching some random episode of The Vampire Diaries before you called.”

Luke blinked. “The what?” 

You fell silent for a moment. “Tell me you’re joking.” 

He paused as well before he spoke in the most unconvincing voice. “I’m joking?” 

“Forget watching it, how have you never heard of it?!” 

“I don’t know!” Luke defended weakly, shuffling back further against the pillows. “Is this your subtle way of telling me to watch it?”

“No!” 

He frowned. “No?”

“I want to watch it with you. I want to see your reactions.” 

Luke snorted but he didn’t disagree, something fond and warm bubbling in the pit of his stomach at your insistence. “Fine, deal,” he mused. “But it would have at least given me something to do.” 

“Wow, is Jack that boring of a roommate?” 

He laughed. “Nah, he went out with some of the other guys for dinner.” 

“You didn’t feel like joining?” 

“Not really,” he admitted. 

“How come?” 

“Just…didn’t feel like it,” he said, his fingers tugging on the drawstrings of his hoodie as the spiralling thoughts began to creep in again. Like a reminder he wasn’t just lying on his bed back in Jersey talking away to you on the phone, that he was actually on the other side of the country. 

And it seemed like you sensed his reluctance, the shift in his voice like he seemed distant and you wanted to pull him back in.

“So you try to sext me instead?” Your voice was playful and taunting and he could imagine the smirk on your face so clearly. 

“Shut up,” he groaned, his cheeks burning once again. “I didn’t—”

“You so did.”

“That was not my intention at all,” he retorted. 

“Damn, Hughes, didn’t take you for a phone sex kind of a guy?” 

Luke could only thank some superior being above that it wasn’t a facetime call, that you couldn’t see how bad he was blushing. “I am neither a sexting or phone sex kind of guy.” 

“Boo, it’s more fun than you would think.” 

His nose scrunched up. “I don’t know.” 

“Don’t knock it until you try it, Luke.”

…

Despite being in two very different states, Luke had found himself on the phone with you most nights of the roadie so far.

It wasn’t really a co-dependent thing, like Jack liked to tease him about when he caught Luke waiting for your message saying you were free to call after the game in LA. It was a similar feeling he had with his friends back in Michigan or his brothers, this strong urge to tell you things. He wanted to share it with you, he wanted to tell you about something stupid Jack did in the locker room or the weird drink Curtis smuggled him at dinner. 

And in turn, he wanted to hear about your day too. He wanted to hear about how the nice barista at the coffee shop on the way to work gave you a free cookie because she fucked up your order by accident. He wanted to hear about the way your upstairs neighbour had taken up tap dancing and seemed to only find eleven o’clock at night the most appropriate time to practise. He just wanted to hear you talk. 

Luke was at least self-aware enough to realise he was being a bit insane with the phone calls every night when he was only gone for over a week. But day six into a ten day roadie and he just kind of wished he was chilling on your couch when listening to these stories rather than a nondescript hotel room he shared with his brother with limited privacy. 

However, the phone calls had become such a routine over the last few days that he didn’t even think twice when he picked up his buzzing phone, answering and putting it on speaker as he walked towards his suitcase in only a towel. 

“Hey, I’ve been waiting for your call,” Luke said, an easy smile on his face as he quickly grabbed some clothes to change into after his shower. 

“Really? I didn’t realise you missed me that much. I miss you too, dude.” 

Luke froze, his eyes widening as he snapped his gaze back towards his phone. He quickly grabbed it off his bed, letting out a soft ‘fuck’ when he realised it was Ethan, not you. 

“Luke? You still there?” 

“Uh yeah,” Luke cleared his throat. “Sorry, I just came out of the shower. So, uh, what’s up?” 

“I caught the game, just wanted to make sure you were alright. Looked like a tough game but you were killer out there, bud.” 

He paused, his lips twitching upwards. “You watched the game?”

“Don’t sound so surprised, dude. The boys watch every game we can. Our boy is in the big leagues! We gotta support you.”

“I didn’t know,” he admitted, his chest tightening a little.

“We miss you on the team, gotta get our fix somehow,” Ethan joked, lighthearted and playful. 

And yet, Luke felt a wave of guilt wash over him. Despite flying out for his birthday party, he hadn’t really been messaging the boys back in Michigan as much as he should have. He knew they were also giving him space to settle into the NHL lifestyle and they were busy with classes and such, but his own surprise from Ethan calling confirmed enough that he needed to reach out more. 

“I miss playing with you guys too,” Luke confessed, and it was true. He loved the Devils and he loved living out his dream but a small part of him itched to be back on the ice with his UMich boys again. 

“Yeah but you never threw us around like that.” 

Luke let out a groan, ignoring Ethan’s laughs. “I didn’t mean to knock him over like that, it was just the momentum!” 

Ethan’s laughs only got louder. 

…

It was the night before the Anaheim game when Jack had all but bolted out the room, muttering something about hanging out with Trevor and that he would be back before dinner. 

In all honesty, Luke didn’t question it much. He just waved his brother off, saying he was going to have a small nap before he started getting ready for whatever restaurant Trevor had booked for them (assuring that it would fit their diet plan but Luke wasn’t convinced). Between the travelling and training on the road, Luke found himself more exhausted than he was from back-to-back games in Jersey.

And he genuinely was going to nap until his phone buzzed with a message from you and he found himself dialling your number before he could help himself. 

“A call already? You didn’t even give me a chance to try sexting you.” 

He rolled his eyes. “I don’t see what the point is.” 

“I like hearing you get all flustered and nervous.” 

“Yeah but it’s not really the same thing, is it?” He commented, running a hand through his curls before tugging his hood back over his head. “Surely it’s just a bit…awkward.” 

“It can be hot if you do it right,” you corrected him. “Personally, I think phone sex is better but it can be fun to sext too. Like a thrill, you know?” 

“Yes because nothing sounds sexier than talking about sex,” he mused.

“It’s not like that,” you laughed, shuffling around on the other side of the phone. “Think of it like…foreplay.” 

His brows furrowed together. “In what way?” 

“You aren’t together but you’re telling each other what you would want to do if you were. What you wish you could be doing. And you’re listening to it all, listening to them get off to your words.” 

Luke swallowed harshly. “It still sounds awkward.” 

There was a pause on the other side. “Yeah?” 

“Yeah,” he breathed out, shifting a little in his spot. “Wouldn’t it make more sense to facetime them and see them?” 

“It’s about using your imagination, Luke,” you hummed, sounding amused by his grasp on phone sex. “It’s about taking the scraps of what they tell you and letting your brain run wild with it.” 

He let out an unconvinced hum.

“Still sceptical?”

“Maybe.” 

There was a small pause before you spoke again. “You’re alone, right?” 

“Uh, yeah,” Luke nodded, even if you couldn’t see him. “Jack won’t be back for another few hours so—”

“So you can be a good boy for me?” 

His brain went blank.

“C’mon, Luke.” He could almost hear the smirk in your voice. “Remember what we said about words?”

“Yeah,” he let out a shaky breath. “Yeah, I can be…good.”

“I know you can, you’re always so good f’me,” you commented, so nonchalant and casual like your worlds didn’t make his heart beat a little faster. “Tell me what you’re doing right now.” 

“Uh,” he cleared his throat. “I’m lying in bed, talking to you. But you know that—”

“What are you wearing?” 

Luke glanced down at himself, the Devils branded hoodie and UMich sweatpants hardly the sexiest of outfit choices but he muttered out his response regardless. “Isn’t that the exact line you teased me about earlier?” 

“You telling me you’re wearing something special just for me?” 

He snorted, despite himself. “Hardly.” 

“That’s fine. You look better without anything anyway. A shame you’re all the way in California, would’ve been nice to have you all to myself.”

He gulped. “Is this where I use my imagination to guess what you’d do to me?” 

“If you want,” you said, laughing softly and it almost felt like you were right there beside him. “Or I could tell you how I miss hearing those pretty noises you make when you come, the little moans you let out when I touch you.” 

“Shit,” he muttered. “How do you just say those things so…easily?” 

“Because I know what I like and I’m confident with saying what I want. And I really like making you come, you’re always so sweet. You get so blushy and shy, it’s cute. I could only imagine what you’d be like when I get my mouth on you.”

Luke squirmed, his hand reaching down to press down on the length of his cock like it would ease the way he was twitching at her words. 

“Would you like that, Luke?”

“Y-Yeah,” he breathed out, nodding even if you couldn’t see him.

“Bet you would look so pretty, all shy and nervous to touch me even if you wanted to,” you continued, his eyes fluttering shut like he could pretend you were really in the room with him, like you were really whispering all of this in his ear. “But I would want you to, Luke. I would wanna feel your hands in my hair, wanna see you take control.” 

“I would,” he mumbled out, his hand slowly stroking himself over his sweatpants as he imagined it. As he imagined being sat on your couch, with you kneeling between his legs and your eyes glued on his reactions. It made his whole body feel hot and flustered. 

“Yeah, baby? You’d take control? Fuck my mouth?��� 

He was almost embarrassed by the noise he let out.

“Are you touching yourself right now? Letting your imagination fill in the blanks?” 

“Mhm,” he nodded. 

“Good, baby, good. Keep touching yourself, keep making yourself feel good.”

“Wish it was you,” he managed to mutter out, his cock straining under the fabric of his boxers and sweatpants. However, any embarrassment or lingering awkwardness was long gone as he pushed them down to his knees, not even bothered to kick them off as he got his hand on himself. 

“Yeah? Me too, baby. I wish I was with you now, could watch you squirm and beg f’me with your dick down my throat.”

“Fuck,” he hissed, squeezing the base of his cock as he tried to mimic the night of his birthday, to mimic the feeling of your hand on him instead. “That’s…vulgar.”

You laughed, and it shouldn’t have been so hot to him but it was. “Too much? You don’t want me to talk about how badly I wish that it was you touching me right now?”

“You’re touching yourself right now?” It was almost a wheeze, like the air had been knocked out of his lungs and it hadn’t even hit him until that moment that you were in the same position as him. 

“Mhm,” you hummed, all sweet and high-pitched and it reminded him of the noise you made just before you came on his fingers. “If I was more patient, I would’ve got a toy. Would’ve felt way better.” 

“Toy?” He rasped. 

“Jealous?” You teased, unaware of the way Luke turned his head to the side, biting down on his pillow to hold back his groans as he continued to stroke himself. “I’ll show you when you’re back.” 

“Show me on yourself?” 

“I can use them on you too, pretty boy, if you could handle it.” 

“I…could,” he muttered out, listening to the breathy, moany laugh on the other side of the phone.

“We’ll see,” you hummed. “Maybe I’ll send you a video for your next roadie. Keep you occupied while you’re away.”

“Nuh uh,” he bit out, shaking his head. “This. I like this. I like hearing your voice.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah,” he repeated, his stomach twisting as his thumb swiped over the head of his cock and rubbed the small bead of precum along his slit. “S’close.” 

“Come f’me, wanna hear you come.”

It was a bit of a mindfuck if Luke was completely honest with himself. The pleasure running down his spine, leaving his body hot and heavy and just as good as it did when he was with you didn’t make sense to him. Listening to the little breathy moans and whines you let out when he came all over his hand, as he listened to you get yourself off shouldn’t have made his dick twitch so soon. He shouldn’t have been able to make himself come so hard just from some dirty talk from you, and yet he had. 

Though, Luke didn’t have a lot of explanations when it came to the way you made him feel.

“You still there?” 

“Yeah,” he hummed, his eyes still shut as he laid on the bed, practically melting into the sheets beneath him. “Kinda need that nap now.”

You snorted. “You should clean up before you fall asleep.” 

“Five minutes,” he murmured out, a lazy smile on his face as your laugh echoed through the phone.

…

He was rushing to button up his shirt when his phone rang again. 

He was already running late for the reservations Trevor made for dinner (if the constant stream of messages from Jack was telling him anything) and his nap lasted longer than he expected. But he couldn’t bite back his smile as he reached for his phone, his thumb already swiping to answer the call as he rummaged through his suitcase to find his cologne. 

“You’re out of luck if you’re wanting to go for a round two,” Luke mused once the call had connected, an odd wave of confidence in his voice as he spoke. 

“Round two of what?” 

Luke froze, yanking his phone away from his ear to see Quinn’s name on his screen. He let out a muttered ‘what the fuck’ under his breath, an odd sense of deja vu from his phone call with Ethan washing over him before he quickly answered his eldest brother. 

“Uh, nothing,” he laughed off, resisting the urge to yank on his own hair after he had spent the better part of the last fifteen minutes trying to make his curls look presentable. “Just some…exercise challenge thing Jack and I were trying out.” 

“And you think he would call you about it? Aren’t you two together right now?” 

“Yes. No!” Luke shook his head at himself. “No, he’s in Nico’s room right now.” 

“I thought you were getting dinner with Trevor?” 

“Right,” Luke laughed once again, awkward and strained. “We are. He just…had to tell Nico something first. You know Jack! Just…always attached to Nico’s hip.”

There was a moment of silence before Quinn spoke again. “Are you feeling okay?” 

“I feel great, actually! Speaking of, I need to go so I’ll call you later. Okay, great, bye!” 

He slammed the small red button until the call disconnected, throwing his phone down on his bed and letting out a long, deep sigh. He really needed to start looking at his phone before answering calls, it was getting a bit ridiculous. 

Luke finished getting ready, shoving some shoes on and making his way towards the elevator as he began typing out a message before slipping his phone into his pocket, already preparing himself for Jack’s whining about how late he is by the time he reached the lobby.

hockey boy: remind me to give you a personalised ringtone when i’m back in jersey

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[thoughtfulfiction]

The Game Plan

Author’s note: Merry Christmas Bolt fam🩵Still working on rewrites but I needed to write something new to get inspired. I am done with school so I’ll hopefully be able to get fics out more often!

Last time he was this nervous, he stood on shaky legs in front of a New York crowd accepting the William V. Campbell trophy. Public speaking wasn’t his favorite thing in the world and he hated talking about himself. But this was about a hundred times more important. And more nerve wracking.

When Justin suggested flying to your hometown to spend some time with your parents, you didn’t bat an eye. You’d been talking about making a trip back home after the season was over and were elated to discover that he was on the same page. Now that the time had come and you were looking at him as he drove the rental car to your family home, you couldn't help but think maybe he was regretting his decision. The man was constantly fidgeting in his seat, his grip on the steering wheel tight, eyes full of stress and semi concern.

"You okay?" You furrowed your eyebrows at him, urging your boyfriend to let you in on whatever was causing him such turmoil.

"What? Oh yeah no, I'm fine." He knew that sounded less than convincing. "It's just weird with the season being over. Almost like I have to learn how to relax again. This week will be good though."

Nodding in understanding, you place a hand on his leg hoping that the simple touch will ease his mind. Little did you know he was in the midst of a huge inner crisis. Justin rehearsed what he was going to say a few more times before pulling into your parent's driveway. Swallowing down his nerves, he grabbed your suitcase and his, walking toward the front door feeling like his legs weighed a ton each.

Your mom had already taken you away to the kitchen by the time he walked in, immediately lost in conversation about work and life while your dad grabbed one of the bags out of Justin's hands. The two men trudged up the stairs to drop off the bags, exchanging pleasantries and getting settled in before heading to the backyard to cook. Your dad loved Justin. He was the perfect partner for you, a perfect mix of fun/exciting and responsible/caring. He had seen you fall more and more in love with the quarterback over the years which made it easy to love him too. And getting to talk about football all day with someone who actually valued such intimate conversations about the sport helped.

All of the distracting small talk was out of the way, Justin had complimented your dad on his new grill and the improvements he'd made on the backyard and they had unpacked some of the nitty gritty details of the season and who your dad thought they should draft as perfect additions to the roster for the next season and the only thing that remained was the pit of nerves in his stomach that hadn't disappeared since boarding the plane.

"Something on your mind?" Your dad was observant, not really one to beat around the bush. He'd noticed a slight edge to Justin's voice since the two of you had arrived and was really trying to wait to give him some time. He'd obviously gotten too impatient. "You look like you've seen a ghost."

Justin's had relationships before. Not many times, but he's felt security and love in other people, seeing a future with them and thought about what the rest of his life would look like. Being with you was not only the most serious relationship he'd ever been in but he found himself constantly planning for the future and setting his family up for long-term success, a family that he now couldn't envision without you. He swallowed thickly, suddenly overcome with emotion at the words that he needed to express to your father. "There is something on my mind actually," he clears his throat, trying really hard to maintain eye contact and not look down at the grill. "I wanted to come here first thing to ask you for your permission."

"My...permission?"

"Your permission, your blessing. Either one. Or both." Your boyfriend rambles on nervously, the words tumbling out of his mouth completely out of order and unlike anything he’d just spent time practicing.

Your dad still looks at him, confused. Justin sighs, "I love your daughter more than anything in the world. She’s the greatest thing in my life and I never thought I’d have the opportunity to be with someone so special. Now that I’ve gotten to be with her I don’t ever want to let her go and...it's really important for me to ask you before I propose."

In that moment it all begins to click and your dad nods. Here was one of the most calm and collected quarterbacks in the NFL stumbling over his words out of nerves because he wanted to ask for permission before getting engaged. A man who's build could arguably be compared to ancient Greek deities was a mere mortal when it came to you and it took every ounce of your dad's strength not to crack a smile. "You came all this way to ask me if you can marry my daughter. So you could do this in person?" The younger man nods. "Before I answer, can you promise me one thing?"

"Anything." Justin says without hesitation. He didn't care what he had to do, he just knew he was going to do it no matter what it took.

Your dad looks toward the house, watching you and your mom laughing while getting the sides set on the table. He looks back at Justin, eyes brimming with tears. "She is my greatest treasure. Promise me you will treat her like nothing less than that."

"I will sir, you have my word."

Justin holds out a hand and your dad pulls him in for a hug. "Welcome to the family son," patting him on the back. The quarterback swore he heard a crack in the other man’s voice but said nothing.

You watched the exchange from the kitchen, slightly confused because your dad didn't exactly give out free hugs like they were Halloween candy. "What is happening out there?"

Your mom catches her husband's eye at the end of the hug, seeing him point at his ring finger and trying to contain her excitement. "I'm sure it's nothing," she smiles, handing you another plate to set on the table, "Justin probably asked him if he wants to golf tomorrow. You know he's been trying to get more into it and bringing an NFL quarterback in front of all of his friends is definitely going to boost his confidence." The two of you stood in silence for a bit until you seemed satisfied with that answer and the two men were back inside, immediately distracting you from asking any further questions as conversation flowed as the food and wine were consumed. Justin helped your mom wash the dishes that night, deep in some secret conversation filled with sporadic giggles and all you could think about was how lucky you were to find someone that fit in so seamlessly. Little did you know they were planning a surprise that you'd never forget.

Step one? Find the perfect ring.

"Isabella, I need a favor," Justin takes a seat at the counter next to his sister-in-law. "You need to distract y/n for a couple hours so I can go through her phone."

Placing her own phone down, she looks at him like he's grown another head. "Why in the hell would I do that? Why would YOU do that?” The more she talks the more visibly upset she looks and Justin is severely regretting not being more specific.

“It’s—it’s not what you think. I just—”

She holds up a finger to keep him from explaining himself any more. “I just want you to know that I’m never thought you’d be one of those people and it’s really disappointing.”

He sighs, looking around to make sure that you aren’t walking in any time soon. “I heard you guys talking last week. About how you had a bunch of videos in your Tik Tok likes that helped you plan your wedding. Then she mentioned that she’s been saving some rings that she thinks would look good on her and I need to see those. So I can design the best ring.”

The tension in her body is instantly released and her features are filled with relief. She holds a hand over her mouth to hide a happy squeal before taking a moment to compose herself so she doesn’t give anything away when she sees you. “You’re proposing,” she whispers leaning in close so no one else can hear.

He leans in too, a wide grin on his face. “I’m proposing.”

“I’ll keep her busy,” she promises, giving him a fist bump.

A girls only DIY spa night in gave him the perfect outlet to grabbing your phone. As soon as the cucumber slices were on your eyelids and Isabella gave him the sign, your cellphone was in his hand and he got to work. He screenshotted 13 different ring designs, jotting down some notes in his own phone, looking at various ring styles and the cut that would best match the style that you were looking for. Then he jotted down some local jewelers to visit and design the ring in person, going as far as flying your best friend to Oregon for a few days under false pretenses that she had a work trip in the area and decided to stay at the ranch since it was nicer than a hotel.

Approximately four weeks after his initial meeting with the jeweler, Justin held the velvet box in his hands and admired everyone’s hard work. He’d had a hand in designing every crevice of the ring that looked much smaller in between his fingers as he examined the diamond. Fresh nerves were beginning to set in as the moment became more and more tangible and real. Once he found a secure spot to hide the ring, he moved forward with the next part of his master plan.

Step two? Come up with proposal ideas.

The beautiful thing about the offseason was that you still had to work remotely, so you’d be in your office in one corner of the house and after his morning workout he had all the free time in the world. The bad thing about that was that he had all this free time to sit and think about how he was going to set up an unforgettable proposal. Luckily, some of his receivers had come down for a Nike promo event and to throw so he had people to bounce ideas off of.

“What about this? I take her to Sofi and propose in the middle of the stadium with just the two of us. We have the video board showing monumental moments of our relationship and as she’s watching I just get down on a knee.”

Ladd takes a sip of water, making eye contact with Derius, who says nothing. Justin continues pacing, taking the collective silence as a sign to suggest something else.

“Don’t everyone jump up at once,” he lets out a nervous laugh, wracking his brain. “Maybe I could drive us to Napa Valley with dinner and some music?” That suggestion earned more interaction, some guys nodded, recalling their own proposals and having him take some pointers from their experiences. There was a time where he couldn’t log onto Instagram without seeing one of his teammates getting engaged and the only thing that made him more nervous than proposing was the media circus that would result from the news getting out. Yes, he wanted it to be special and intimate but the thought of the social media team getting their hands on it and invading your privacy was a little scary. Somehow he had to push that thought out of his mind and tackle one problem at a time.

“Private beach proposal in Hawaii?”

Simi stands up at the suggestion, placing a hand on his friend’s shoulder. “Sounds beautiful in theory, but aren’t you scared of having the ring so close to the water?”

“Yeah what if you’re so nervous that you drop the box and it’s washed away by the tide,” Ladd notes. “The less distracting things around you the better. Helps you focus on just her.”

“I don’t think that’ll be a problem, he’s obsessed,” Patrick says, walking by just to chastise his brother. Justin flips him off without uttering a word, an unwavering focus on the task at hand.

Nothing seemed right, some ideas were too flashy, too cheesy. He wanted to show you how much you meant to him, how you’d changed his perspective on life and balancing work and your relationship. That it was possible to do both because the right person brings things out of you that you didn’t even know where there. How do you encompass all of those feelings into one perfect location?

“I’m not gonna lie,” Simi says, voice full of sincerity. “You gotta let the perfect time come to you, you’ll know when the time is right. Trust me.”

Justin had no other choice at this point. He spent the next few weeks holding onto the ring, desperately looking for the right time. Spending all this time stressing and planning and plotting had really taken him away from you. There was an unspoken distance between the two of you and it had become increasingly upsetting. Even when you were in the same room it felt like he was miles away, stuck in his own head, shutting you out completely. You were starting to think that he was looking for a way out and couldn’t decide on a way to let you down easy. The thought of him tip toeing around a breakup made you nauseous.

“Why haven’t you done it yet? You can’t keep putting this off forever,” you heard Mitch say one morning after you came home earlier than expected from an in-person work meeting. Usually you wouldn’t eavesdrop, but Justin’s behavior hadn’t exactly given you a vote of confidence in the state of your relationship. You couldn’t even really remember the last time you went on a date without him looking like he was seconds away from getting sick.

Justin on the other hand had spent every dinner date thinking about whether or not this was the moment. Walking around with the ring in his pocket everywhere he went just in case, deathly afraid of you finding it on accident. That thought alone, of him walking in the house to you holding that ring box not only made him want to cry a little at the ruined surprise but also make him feel like throwing up. And he was tired of hearing everyone and their mom ask him when he was going to pull the trigger and propose.

Especially when he felt like it was happening every single day.

“I’m not putting it off! I just—this is harder than I thought. It’s not just something to check off the to-do list. I gotta do it right or I’m not doing it at all.”

He felt so bad about dumping you that he was putting it off…so he could do it the right way? What even is the right way to end a relationship? You didn’t want to stick around to find out, making your way back outside to sit in your car and think about your next move.

“Justin is planning on dumping me.” You sighed into the phone, calling your best friend.

“What? Where did you get that from?”

You spent the next 20 minutes explaining to her all the signs. His weird behavior, always on his phone but will never let you see what he’s doing or who he’s talking to. You feel like he’s hiding something but he makes sure to only give you minor details saying he’s planning a trip with the guys or talking to his agent about taking on different endorsements. It all just seems too fishy. Why is he torturing you like this by stringing you along? Should you just break up with him first?

“You have to act normal like you don’t suspect anything,” you hear at the other end of the line. Her voice is calm and reassuring which is nice because the last thing you needed to hear was that she didn’t believe you. “If he’s breaking up with you then let him explain him himself. Justin has never been someone to do things without a purpose and you know he’d never do anything knowing that it would hurt you.”

She had a point. “Fine. You’re right, I’ll hear him out and figure it out after I gather all the information. Thank you for talking me off the ledge.”

“You’re welcome.” As soon as you hung up the phone, your friend texted Justin that he should start acting a bit more casual because you were freaking out.

The next evening, he surprised you with a bonfire movie night.

“What’s all this?”

Justin pats the spot on the outdoor couch next to him, welcoming you to take a seat. “An apology? I’m sorry I’ve been off lately. There’s been a lot on my mind and I got so lost in my head that I’ve been neglecting you but that stops today. It had nothing to do with how I feel about you at all, you’re not getting rid of me that easily.”

“Care to share with the class what was bothering you for so long?”

You cuddle into his side, a sense of comfort immediately taking over the constant state of unease that previously surrounded you. Looking up at him, he places a gentle kiss on your lips, so soft it leaves you wanting more. “It doesn’t matter now, all that I care about,” he sneaks another kiss, “is being right here with you.”

“Well in that case,” you whisper, “we should make s’mores.”

Justin laughs, kissing you on the cheek and rising to his feet, helping you up before heading into the kitchen. The tray on the counter was loaded with various snack items, Reese’s cups, pretzels and strawberries along with normal s’more ingredients. As you made your way back to the bonfire and began to dig in, a thought popped into your mind while enjoying the stillness.

“We can’t do things like this in LA. You can’t beat the scenery out there and the background noise of the traffic isn’t exactly the most romantic.”

He looks up at the sky full of stars, remembering exactly why he bought land out here in the first place. “I’ve always thought about raising our future kids here. Los Angeles is where I work but this is home, they can grow up and be normal kids here. Play outside, go fishing, experience a childhood that has lasting memories. Not sitting in traffic for hours and never seeing a real tree.”

“Our kids?”

“Yeah,” he says without hesitation. “I think about Coach getting our son his first pair of khakis.”

You laugh, picturing it in your head, “and he’d probably get our daughter a custom pair of cleats to wear pregame.”

“Exactly,” he throws his head back to laugh at the image of mini versions of you and him being spoiled by his head coach. He grabs another strawberry, dipping it in the melted chocolate and feeding it to you. “How many kids do you want?”

“Let’s say it at the same time.”

He counts down from five, saying “three” at the same time you do.

Looking at each other in shock, you burst into laughter at the fact that you have identical answers despite the fact that you’d never openly spoken about it. You each knew the other wanted children but just didn’t know exactly how many. Justin felt like his heart might burst with an uncomfortable and overwhelming amount of happiness. If it wasn’t clear then, it is now.

There, in that moment, nothing seemed more perfect. He looked down at your hands, spotting the manicure you’d gotten last week before attending a wedding. Simi’s words came flooding back, you’ll know when the time is right.

And that time was right now.

“I’m gonna head inside and grab another water, do you want anything?”

“I think I’m okay. Thank you though,” you barely acknowledged the exchange, wrapped up in finding the perfect movie to watch as you scrolled through all the streaming services. Today, the most simply normal day was about to be extraordinary and his feet couldn’t carry him inside fast enough to grab the ring.

His heart was beating in his ears walking back outside. He clears his throat to get your attention and the look on his face makes you stand. “What happened?”

“I spent so long trying to create the perfect moment. But I just realized that every moment with you is perfect.”

Your voice catches in your throat and you’re forced to speak in a hushed tone. “What are you doing?”

He takes a deep breath, holding the box firmly in his hand. “I love you. You’re the one I want to build a home with, create a family with, grow old with and everything in between that this life has to offer. I’m sorry it took me so long, that I spent so much time trying to capture some picturesque scene that we’ll remember forever. You and I, right here is memorable. Being with you is all I’ve ever need, all I’ll ever need. For the rest of my life.” He opens the box and you audibly gasp, everything in your body tingling and buzzing with excitement. Everything made sense now, his nerves, the secrecy…everything. He was trying to make all of your dreams come true.

Holding your hand in one and the box in the other, he gets down on one knee. “Will you make me the happiest man in the world, will you marry me?”

“Yes,” you respond immediately, sounding out of breath while wiping a tear from your eye. “A thousand times yes, of course I’ll marry you!” Sliding the ring that fits exactly like it was tailored to your finger, he stands up and wraps his arms around you, a small tear escaping him.

Justin kisses you, a passionate deep kiss, relieved that everything had gone even better than he’d imagined, pulling you in so close that you can feel his steady heartbeat. His movements were long and slow, a slight grin against your lips as you give into belonging to each other. Lost in paradise he leaned his forehead against yours, both of your eyes still closed in awe that this actually just happened.

“Here’s to a lifetime of perfect moments and sometimes the best plan is no plan. I love you Justin, this is amazing I couldn’t ask for anything more incredible.” You pulled away, opening your eyes to look at your hand. “And this ring? You’re crazy.”

“I am crazy. Crazy about you,” he kisses you on the forehead, running his hand across your fingers. “I love you so much, fiancée.”

[homestylehughes]

4 times quinn wanted to kiss you, and the 1 time he did.

pairing(s): Quinn Hughes x fem!reader

summary: 4 times quinn wanted to kiss you, and the time he did.

warning(s): absolutely nothing, pure fluff.

wc: 2.1k

an: hi loves!!! before i say anything, i think this might be my favorite fic, i've ever written, i love it so so much. it was so nice to sit down and write another fic, I had the best time writing this. i know the poll i put out wanted the nico x Hughes sister smut but this idea has a hold on me and i had to write it today, but i'm working on that fic currently as well! i hope you guys enjoy this as much as i do, like and reblog If you do! much love always <3

happy reading <3

1.

It had always been yn and quinn, quinn and yn, attached to the hip at 5 years old and neither of you wanted to let go. If you would have told Quinn that the little girl the jack pushed into the sandbox at 5 would be his best friend for the rest of his life, he'd think you're crazy. But here you guys are today starting the first day of college, together.

This wasn't exactly the plan for you guys, it just so happened you got into michigan, the same place quinn was signing to play hockey. 

Today was the first game of the season for Quinn, even though Quinn had played hockey for most of his life, he couldn't help but be scared to step on the ice for his first college game. The nerves are getting the best of him as they line up, ready to headout on the ice for warm ups. 

The first push on the ice takes away Quinn's voice as he looks around the arena at all of the fans in the crowd, his eyes glimmering with excitement as he takes it all in. his heart stops for a moment when he sees you standing in the stands with his family, dressed in his jersey, holding up a sign that says “number 43 is my favorite!”. Holding it high above you head, a wide smile breaking at across your face as look down at him skating on the ice. 

A smile spreads upon Quinn's face, as he looks at you and his family. At that moment he really wanted to kiss you. 

2. 

Quinns hands were shaking as he tried to tie his tie, his mind was everywhere else but where it needed to be. It was the day of the NHL draft, a night that would change the rest of his life and his families. He couldn't help but feel almost sick at the thought of moving to a new state or country, leaving everything and everyone he loved behind, including you. 

After five attempts of trying to tie his tie, he dramatically sighs, dropping his hands away from his chest. Staring at himself in the mirror trying to peace himself together, coaching himself to take deep breaths. Just as he starts to tie his tie again, he hears a soft knock on the hotel door. 

His mom had already ushered everyone out of the room around 30 minutes ago, telling everyone to give him some space. Quinn couldn't help but be annoyed at the fact that someone already was knocking on the other side of the door. Making his way to the door, his brain already settled on whoever was on the other side of the door a bit of hell for disturbing him. 

Opening the door slowly he sees you standing in the hallway, with a small smile on your way as you look at him. All of the anger he had harbored in him, immediately  disappears when he sees you. 

“Hi, i'm sorry to interrupt but i thought i'd just come check on you” she says 

“You weren't interrupting anything, thank you for coming and checking on me.'' Quinn says, pausing for a second clearing his throat. 

“I actually could use a bit of help, i can't tie my tie.” he says a little embarrassed 

“I can help, if you let me in your room, or we can stand here in the hallway whatever works best for you” yn giggles out. 

“Oh shit, i'm sorry come in '' he quickly says, his face heating with embarrassment. Yn quickly walks into the room, quinn shutting the door behind her. 

“Sit on the bed” she quietly says to him, quinn doesn't need to be told twice when it comes to her, taking a seat on the soft bed, leaving his legs slightly open, allowing you to stand in between them as she works on his tie. 

Their faces and bodies are so close together, his eyes catching hers for a moment. In that moment he wanted nothing more than to pull her on top of him and forget about the draft, forget about his future. Because at that moment, he really really wanted to kiss you. 

3. 

Quinn woke up to a constant banging on his front door, rolling on his side to see that the clock on his bed side table read, 3 a.m. “who the fuck is knocking on my door at 3 a.m?” Quinn thought to himself. Quinn trudging pulls himself out of bed, walking slowly downstairs hearing another round of knocking once he reaches the bottom of the stairs. 

Finally reaching his front door, he doesn't even bother looking through the peephole before opening the door. Opening the door he's met with a rain soaked yn on his front porch with flowers in her hand and a suitcase at her side. Quinn thinks he's dreaming as he looks at her, still half asleep. 

“You know i think i forgot how much it rains in vancouver during the summer, as you can see im soaked” yn chuckles out. “Also how dare you not tell me you were being named captain, I'm very upset that I had to find out through an instagram post. But I'll get over that because I missed you, so I flew all of the way here to surprise you.” 

“OH! These flowers are for you” she says, holding out the slightly weeping flowers in front of her.

“I promise they looked better, the rain…ruined them” she says smiling sadly at him.

“I'm so sorry i woke you up with the banging, my phone died and i don't have a key-” 

Quinn quickly cuts her rambling off by pulling her into the tightest hug known to man, spinning her around, as if he never wants to let her go. 

“I'm so happy you're here” quinn says, as he sets her down, his arms wrapped around her. 

“I'm so happy I'm here too.” yn says, looking up at quinn, he can see something in her eyes, love maybe? He’s not sure, but what he is sure of is that he really wants to kiss her, and it's killing me everyday that he hasn't. 

4.

They lost. They lost. They lost in game seven, their playoff run was over. All of their blood, sweat and tears couldn't help them win this game. Quinn couldn't help but let the weight of loss fall on his shoulders as they skate off the ice. The walk to the locker room felt like an eternity. The room is quiet as the players strip out of their gear. He couldn't help but let a few tears fall as he got undressed. Feeling like he let his team, his family, the fans down. 

Quinns mind couldn't focus during the press conference, giving the reporters one to two sentence answers. He didn't want to be there, he wanted to think about anything else other than hockey. He wanted to cry alone, he wanted the voices in his head to stop, he didn't want to be here. 

After the press wraps up, Quinn quickly grabs his things heading out the locker room, as he turns the corner he sees you sitting against the wall, quickly turning your head when you hear footsteps down the hall, making eye contact. 

Quinn had completely forgotten where even at the game, the loss of the game, completely taking over his mind. 

“Yn, what are you still doing here?” he asks as he reaches her, offering her a hand to get off the ground. 

Wordlessly she takes his hand, pulling his bag out of his other hand placing it on the ground below them. Before wrapping her hands around his neck pulling him down into a hug, Quinn's arms instantly wrapping around her waist, his body melting into hers. His face resting in her neck as he feels tears fall out of his eyes, as he clings to her body. 

They stand like this for a few minutes, quinn’s tears finally settling before yn pulls back, running her fingers under quinns eyes wiping away his tears.

“I'm so proud of you, win or lose. I'm so so so proud of you Quinn, please never forget that '' she says, holding his face in between her hands. 

“I love you” quinn mumbles out as he begins to cry again. 

“I love you more” she says, “now let's get you out of here, i think you need one of gina's world famous burgers hm?” she says, grabbing his bag from the floor. Holding her hand out for him to grab, Quinn doesnt waste a second before sliding his hand into her as they head towards the exit. 

Quinns head is no longer filled with thoughts about the game, about hockey. It's filled with thoughts about you, about how much he loves you, and how badly he wants to kiss you. 

+1.

Quinn can't count on his hands how many times he's been to the lake house during the summer, but each time he does it better than the year before. Making new memories with the people who he loves, making new memories with you. 

Quinn insisted that you come to the lake house with him a week before everyone else did, he wanted to spend as much time with you before everyone else got here, and you couldn't say no to that. 

So this brings you to where you guys are now, sitting on the boat in the middle of the lake, watching as the sun sets across the sky. The sky casting hues of pinks and purples across the lake. Quinn couldn't help but look at you as you stare at the scene around you, seeing you look so relaxed and at peace, he couldn't help but smile. 

“I can feel you staring at me” yn giggles out, still looking at the lake in front of her. 

“I was just taking in the scenery” he says 

“Mhm, and that just happens to be my face?” she says, turning to look at him with a smile that matches his on her face. 

“Maybeee” quinn playfully says.

“Well it's creepy so stop it” she says playfully rolling her eyes at him

“And what if I don't?” he asks

“I'll feed you to the sharks” 

“Pretty girl there isn't any sharks out here” quinn says laughing at her

“Stop laughing at me” she says, sending a quick shove to quinns shoulder, causing him to fall back against boat. 

“Oh that's it” quinn days before launching himself at her, pinning her down before his hands start to attack her sides. 

“ QUINN PLEASE NO” she pleads out to him as he tickles her. Laughs fell from both of their lips as they attacked each other. 

“I CAN'T BREATH” yn laughs out as Quinn tickles the skin behind her neck, knowing its sweet spot. Deciding to give in to her pleas, he stops his attack on her neck. Her chest rising steadily as he looks down at her, her lips slightly parted, the plump skin almost looks like its calling is name. 

Before he knows what he’s doing, he slowly lowers his face closer to hers, softly connecting their lips together in a sweet kiss. Yn kisses him back almost instantly, her hands wrapping around his neck pulling him closer to her. The once soft kiss turned hot and desperate quickly, a tension they've been dancing around for years, as finally broken like a dam, and neither of them wanted to stop. 

Neither of them wants to pull away, but the need for air begs them too, Quinn pulling away first causing you to whine at the loss of contact. Looking at her with swollen lips and love filled eyes. 

“I've wanted to do that for awhile” quinn says 

“How long?” she asks as he works hard with the hair on the bottom of his neck.

“Ever since i saw you for the first time” 

“Quinn we were five” she laughs

“I knew what I wanted at five,” he laughs, pushing a piece of hair out of her face. “And i've known that i've always wanted you” he finishes

“I love you” yn says

“I love you more” he replies

“I don't think you do” yn quips back 

“Let me show you how much i do” quinn says before connecting their lips back together, because at that moment quinn wanted to kiss you, and this time he did.

[sergeifyodorov]

Hi cody which of the big names (or lesser known guys that are your blorbos) do u think will play for their team for their entire career and who do u think will leave? Tampa bay is on my hit list for dropping stamkos like that

ohoho this one is FUN... everyone is my blorbo im gonna go through every team and See...

the biggest difficulty in making this list is that like inevitably b/c of the Inevitable Passage Of Time the babies grow up and sometimes they grow up into like. diff ppl... like i imagine rn the sharks and hawks respectively want mack and bedsy to be with them for life... but is that Happening? it's too early to say ... bedsy seems like he might though. he's goodcanadianboy enough.

boston bruins: marchand and pasta are 100% lifers... mcavoy seems like they want him to be a lifer but he hasn't made up his mind yet.

buffalo sabres: if they make the playoffs within the next five years (BIG IF) then i can see one of power or dahlin sticking it out. but at this point i'm pretty sure the only thing that can save the sabres is a serious exorcism and i mean a SERIOUS one so i doubt this'll happen in truth

detroit red wings: larkin. duh.

florida panthers: barkov

montreal canadiens: n/a. see buffalo sabres but replace "power" with "caufield" and "dahlin" with "slafkovsky" . i mean i guess you can put arber on that list but mostly because his career isn't gonna be that long probably

ottawa senators: the one and only THOMAS CHABOT

tampa bay lightning: i WOULD have said stamkos until this offseason... fucking crasy... ok anyway here's my juice: vasy's back injury/surgery have meant he is no longer the goalie he was and i doubt he'll command much after this contract is over. i say 50-50 he leaves vs stays as a reasonable backup/tandem guy. kucherov Wants 2 Win and has a much lower tolerance for Bullshit than stamkos, which means if a competitive price is not being paid for him he will Just Leave. victor hedman is going to be a lifer though

toronto maple leafs: morgan rielly is the only one i know in my heart is a lifer, but only because a) jt was already an islander and b) willy and auston will probably play most of their reasonable careers as leafs and then have like 1-3 seasons somewhere else as ancient old men to Cup Chase One Last Time. don't ask about the other guy you know how i feel about jinxes

carolina hurricanes: n/a

columbus blue jackets: n/a

new jersey devils: n/a... they will try to keep at least 1 hughes but i think we have seen so little of the current devils era (hischier/hughes) that it's hard to say anything about their future atm. can you believe nico was only drafted the year after auston like they haven't gotten off the ground at ALL.

new york islanders: [squints in trying to name islanders]... actually a bunch of lifers looking at it. sorokin. anders lee. barzal if you're nasty. brock nelson. etc

new york rangers: chris kreider FER SURE, igor shesterkin FER MAYBE

philadelphia flyers: see devils re: brink of something new. they're going to try and keep tk forever though

pittsburgh penguins: do i REALLY have to say anything here

washington capitals: Do I Really Have To Say Anything Here

chicago blackhawks: was about to make another bad seth jones contract joke here before remembering he's already played on a different team. no further comment

colorado avalanche: natemac has made it pretty damn clear he wants to stay an av forever, because sidcros stayed a penguin forever. do what you will with that information

dallas stars: jamie benn definitely, but everyone else is too young to say something about or has been on other teams already. good luck with your jrob21 contract negotiations stars front office You Will Need It

minnesota wild: ...jared spurgeon...?

nashville predators: did you guys know puckpedia has the preds abbreviated as NAS and they're ahead of the devils. crazy. anyway roman josi and juuse saros are gonna be preds for life, and probably filip forsberg too

st louis blues: vlad tarasenko IN MY HEART...

winnipeg jets: hellebuyck and schiefele fer sure

anaheim ducks: because they've been trying to trade him for a decade and have been unsuccessful yet: john gibson

calgary flames: n/a

edmonton oilers: nuge + mcdrai also

la kings: doughty + kopi

seattle kraken: n/a

san jose sharks: logan couture

vancouver canucks: my hot take is nobody because quinn hughes is going to pull a mark giordano or jason spezza or perhaps even a chris tanev and play the last couple years of his career as a leaf. petey is gonna slut it up somewhere else later, brock is straight up going to leave as a ufa OR sign a short bridge and then leave as a ufa, and jt miller was a ranger

vegas golden knights: n/a

[nobodyexpectsthe]

I guess psa since people are cleaning things out for the new year & im sick and doing a bit of an anxious chihuahua dance.

If you’ve liked an ask call / sent me an ask / we have a thread it’s drafted & I am going to be getting to it in the post holiday season! Or when I’m done being sick. I’m behind on pretty much everything due to a comedy of errors involving car alarms, last minute coloring jobs (& now a write up on what inspired the work) and now the cold from hell. I’m going to have everything zeroed out before the new year.

If I follow you I want to write, this is just a busy season. I’m definitely not an rper who can commit to consistent activity due to my work, some things come easier than others due to my adhd but I do my best to make sure nobody who puts the effort in is forgotten about.

This is to say that threads aren’t dropped & asks are being queued. With that said, if people end up unfollowing / soft blocking & I’ll probably archive my reply to what we had bc nothing makes my anxiety spike like seeing that missing mutuals / follower button before something set to go out. I feel weird about pursuing interactions once that line has been drawn because there’s too many variables as to why it was and I’d rather not risk upsetting someone.

If you’ve unfollowed and ever want to refollow no hard feelings I welcome you back and will follow! But I get too in my head and won’t reach out once that lines been drawn until there’s a signal it’s okay to.

And there is never any shame in curating your space this is 100 percent not to say there is or to shame anybody! Just to make it clear why I may not refollow and pending things might not appear. I try not to step on boundaries and I know what softblocking means has changed through the years. So, again, zero hard feelings you’re always welcome and I will refollow I’ll just wait for a sign it’s okay to.

[puck-luck]

can you please explain to me how fantasy hockey works? I would love to have my own little team next season but I just don’t understand how it works 😭

ok so this is my first season doing fantasy hockey!! i am by nooooo means an expert.

we are using ESPN fantasy. i already had an account from March Madness Bracket challenges in the past, so i didn't have to make a new one. we only have four people in the league i'm in: cappy, hanz, me, and one of hanz's hometown friends (who, btw, hasn't lost a week yet... but i'm kicking his BUTT now that i know how to use fantasy). in other years, i'm probably going to want to have more people in the league– or maybe we all could do a league together next season! it would be soooo cutie to have a little puck-luck league.

drafting involves setting a date and time where everyone is available to make picks (which is why it would be really difficult for a puck-luck league to exist, sigh), then you choose your picks in a pre-determined order: person a, b, c, d, d again, c, b, a, a again... etc. each person in my league chose 9 forwards, 5 defense, 1 utility, 5 bench players, and 2 goalies. hanz somehow chose 3 goalies, so i think she only has 8 forwards. there is also a spot for an IR player: mine is currently taken up by Mr. Mattias Samuelsson... the man with glass bones. i cannot drop him because i love him.

you can add/drop players at any time (unless they're actively playing a game). cappy is a fucking menace when it comes to add/drop, whereas i've only dropped one player in order to clear my IR spot for Titibear. if you want to know about add/drop in fantasy... go ask cappy. i don't do it enough to know about it.

there IS a list of "undroppables," which are predetermined by ESPN. there are 4 players from each position under undroppables, and three goalies. The list is as follows (the players on MY team are highlighted in green): (C) McDavid, Draisaitl, Matthews, MacKinnon. (LW) Panarin, B. Tkachuk, J. Robertson, Ovechkin. (RW) Rantanen, Pastrnak, M. Tkachuk, Kucherov. (D) Josi, Makar, Fox, Q. Hughes. (G) Shesterkin, Hellebuyck, Valisevskiy. SO, even if i wanted to, which i DON'T, i would not be able to drop draisaitl, mackinnon, ovechkin, or hellebuyck.

each day you have to move players from your bench to your active roster IF THEY ARE PLAYING. you want your players with games today to be in one of your forward or defense spots– example: Cole Caufield is not playing today. He was one of my forwards last night. Sidney Crosby IS playing today. He was not playing last night, so he was on my bench. I moved Sidney to Cole's forward spot, now Cole is on my bench. Tomorrow morning, I will move my players around again.

Every week, you face someone from your league and get points throughout the week. Whoever's team has the most points wins. If there are an odd number of people in your league, one person has a bye week. The bye week rotates. Cappy is currently on her bye week for ANOTHER league, but since our league only has four people, we play each other constantly. I faced Cappy last week and I beat her, since my team scored 162.8 points, while hers only scored 90.7. there were a lot of games last week, so that's why there were so many points... my current status is 73.6 vs. my opponent's 54.1, and there are three days remaining for us to score points (friday's games, saturday's games, and sunday's games). then, i will face a new opponent for the next week.

i hope my NOT brief explanation of fantasy hockey helped you! it was super fun to type this out. i may be wrong about some things, but this is the way iiiiiii understand ESPN Fantasy Hockey, and i'm just a girl who has literally never participated in fantasy sports before <3

[wonderland-smile-stories]

Sneak peek season 2

Hey,

So I’m currently still busy writing for season 2 and I have to say it’s hard! I don’t even know if this sneak peek down below will be included or not!

I have so many drafts for different storylines, but in the end, I get stuck and can’t seem to write more.

Like, season 2 was a mess with new characters and we didn’t see much of the old characters except for Eun-yu, but that doesn’t help me because I get stuck with that as well.

I’m just going to wait for season 3 to drop and hope I can have a clear storyline, but until then here is a little sneak peek of what I have.

It’s just a draft so there can be some spelling mistakes and stuff.

I felt my body move from the ground being lifted by someone or something. My body was completely limp against the person's chest. I wanted to say something, but the only sounds that came out of my mouth were little groans or my attempts at making noise.

Every time I wanted to open my eyes blurriness covered them. I only saw dark silhouettes around me giving me a bigger headache than I already had.

At some point, I just gave up and closed my eyes going completely unconscious.

The next time I woke up my head was still pounding. I don't know how long has passed, but everything still hurts.

My vision was still the same as before, so I think that there hasn't past much time. The healing hadn't kicked fully in and my body was still struggling with all the wounds.

It was so bad that it felt like I had a fever. My clothes were sticking to my body while sweat was rolling down my forehead.

When I tried to look around it seemed to me that I was in a room. I had no idea who was here or who had brought me here.

Someone was kneeling beside me busy looking at my stomach where the wound was.

Who is this?

I felt them move my body before thet began to wrap what I thought was a bandage around my stomach and back so that it would stop the bleeding.

"E...Eun-hyuk?" I mutter out thinking it was him seeing that the person was busy looking at my wounds.

Did he find me?

Was it him who helped me?

The person stopped for a second before continuing with what he was doing.

Maybe it wasn't him.

But who would be helping me? I don't think someone random would just help a person they saw dying on the ground let alone be able to fight a monster like that.

When the person was done wrapping the bandage around me he gently let me lay down on the soft surface.

I think it was just some blankets on top of each other, but it was definitely softer than the ground.

I could feel the person stand up, but before they could fully stand up I grabbed their arm.

"S..st...ay, pl..es.." I tried to form words, but they came all out in stutters.

I just didn't want to be alone. I have no idea where I was or who this was, but just the thought of being alone made me scared especially seeing I couldn't defend myself in this state.

The person paused a second before I could feel them grabbing my hand. It felt familiar, but I just couldn't think of who it could be.

It did bring me comfort, so I just closed my eyes again going back into the darkness.

When I woke up again I finally could see better. My body was stiff when I wanted to move and together with the dryness in my mouth I could tell that a full day had passed.

Slowly I sat up and took a look around. I was in a tiny room. It had a toilet in the corner and a small window at the top of the wall just beneath the ceiling.

Where the hell am I?

I threw the blankets from my body seeing that the bandage was still there covered in blood. My wound felt like it was fully healed.

I mean I didn't feel it anymore so I think it's gone. Slowly I stood up and began to make my way to the door.

I want to get out of here or at least find the person who helped me. A frown came to my face when I tried to open the door, but it wouldn't budge.

"What the..."

Again I tried to open it, but no luck. They really locked me up here. I let out a sigh turning around in the small room. My eyes went to the window.

It was high, but if I jumped I could reach it and pull myself up. I wouldn't be able to crawl through it because it wasn't big, but at least I could see where I was.

Here it goes.

Jumping as high as I could I managed to grab onto the edge of the window. It was surprisingly easy to pull myself up.

Thank you monster strength.

When I looked outside I could only see grass and rocks. The grass was too high for me to see something else.

Great.

This isn't helping me any further. I let out a deep breath and jumped back down. Who would lock me up in here?

Why would someone save me and then lock me up? I looked around trying to find something I could use to escape, but there was nothing there.

The makeshift bed of blankets and a bottle of water was sitting next to it, something I hadn't noticed before.

My tongue licked my dry lips knowing I had to drink, but what if it was poison?

Would I die if I drank it?

I don't think I could die from poison. I would be sick, maybe, but dead not really.

Besides I need to drink something sooner or later. Who knows how long it would take for the person to come back? I took the bottle from the ground before taking a seat on the bed.

I have so many questions.

Who or what helped me, why, where am I, do they know I'm a monster or do they think they just saved a human?

I guess I will know when the person comes back. I mean I can try to escape further.

Maybe I could break the door with my strength or mind, but I kinda want to see who helped me.

What if it is really Eun-hyuk?

He has a history of locking people up.

No, seriously maybe he thought that locking me up while I was unconscious would protect me.

[kajtekmakesthings]

Building a better hi-viz vest:

I wear a hi-viz vest 5 days a week for something like 4 months every year. They're mandatory for the entirety of the Bard on the Beach build and strike, which means I live in the thing through rainy early spring, hot late spring/early summer, and the rapid shift from warm and dry September to rainy and cold October.

My first Bard season, I had a cheap mesh one. It was cool on hot days, but otherwise sucked. The two pockets were as perforated as the rest of it and barely usable because any weight in them stretched the whole vest uncomfortably. When I left it in my cubby with a snack wrapper in the pocket and a mouse chewed right through the fabric, I didn't even bother patching the hole. It wasn't worth the effort.

This past season, I picked up a sturdier surveyor's vest with a ton of pockets.

I loved the general layout, and having a heavier garment that could handle carrying a good amount of snacks, tools, and other essentials without becoming uncomfortable was worth sacrificing ventilation. I was really happy for the first month, and still liked it well enough by late fall.

Minor annoyances piled up over the season: the velcro in the small chest pockets scraped my hands raw if I had to reach into them too often; the radio pocket's strap was bulky and loose; the pen pocket had poorly-sized slots and I dropped things every time I leaned forward; the cheap, sloppy construction failed to hold up to hundreds of hours of outdoor wear. It was clear that this vest was a decent facsimile of a well-designed, well-made work vest, but what I actually wanted was the real thing.

So I've started making my own. I'm using the almost-good-enough surveyor's vest as a starting point, redesigning the features that don't work, and building the whole thing out of much better materials, with better techniques.

This is my first time self-drafting a pattern. I'm glad I started with an incredibly simple garment and an existing shape I could copy. It's been challenging and fun just getting the patterning done.

I started by copying the surveyor's vest's two main shapes (rear panel and front panel) onto some kraft paper I'd saved from a parcel.

The weird tabs on the side and the extra rectangles on the bottom are fold-over lining segments I'd planned to use to reinforce high-wear areas of the interior with the heavier exterior fabric. I'm currently leaning towards cutting them off and sewing them to the lining before sandwiching the layers together, as I suspect the cleaner fold-over seams aren't worth all the extra work. We'll see how they make it into the final product.

For fabric, I grabbed:

Black bull denim for the exterior (this is a new-to-me weave that uses a heavier 3-to-1 twill weave than regular denim, and is dyed a uniform colour instead of having a dyed warp and white weft)

Blue linen for the lining (I splurged on a 100% flax handkerchief linen, since at least some of the lining will be sitting against bare skin on really hot days)

Fluorescent yellow waterproof nylon for the fluorescent component of the hi-viz stripes (I don't care about the waterproofing, but this type of nylon is what you get in work rain pants and jackets, and it's generally easy to keep clean and has good abrasion resistance)

2" wide Iron-on 3M reflective striping for the retroreflective component of the hi-viz stripes

This is also the first time I've had to follow federal safety regulations while designing a project. I'm using this guide to make sure I'm getting the hi-viz components right:

I'm also generally sticking to the design on the original surveyor's vest, since I know it conforms to the relevant standards.

While I was buying fabric, I found a bunch of gridded freezer paper in the sale bin for $1/dozen sheets. I grabbed it after a cursory google turned up a bunch of folks talking about how great it is for pattern-making.

I transferred my original rough patterns from the kraft paper to the freezer paper, using the grid to tidy things up and make them symmetrical.

The cool thing about freezer paper (and butcher paper, which I'm pretty sure is the same thing) is that it has a plastic coating on one side. You can draw on the other side, cut out a pattern, and then place it plastic-side-down on your fabric and iron over it. The heat melts the plastic just enough to have it stick gently to your fabric.

This makes it much easier to cut pattern pieces out of the fabric, because the pattern can't shift around and you don't get the distortion that can come with pinning. I switched to using a rotary cutter to cut out patttern shapes earlier this year (thanks, quilting!), and that plays very well with the freezer paper because my quilting ruler lays flat over it without being thrown off my pins.

I was able to measure and cut a clean and even seam allowance all around the pattern and then peel off the freezer paper without leaving any residue behind. It's reusable (I've already used the front panel piece twice), and honestly feels like a magic trick.

I'm now using it to pattern all of the pockets for the two front panels.

That's the next big chunk of the project, with a planned 4 pockets on the left side and 3 on the right. I'll be lining all of them for comfort and durability, and incorporating the fluorescent and reflective stripes directly into their construction.

So far, this is a fun and challenging off-season project. I'm really glad I don't actually need to use it until mid-March. The lack of deadline means that I can let myself get fully absorbed in the process and all of the things I'm experimenting with as I slowly pull it together.

[winxbutbetterimo-ovo]

Winx Season 1, Chapter 1

(first draft)

“Bloom! Bllooom!”

Eyes still closed, Bloom swipes her hand in the air, trying to get the voice to leave her alone.

“Aren’t you and Selina walking to school together today? She's outside waiting for you,” her mom chirps.

Bloom’s eyes shot open, she flies out of bed and scrambles to get dressed, “what- why didn't you wake me up earlier? Oh first day of school and im la..te-” her lands slow on the hem of her shirt, “- wait a minute i’m on vacation. Selina’s probably not even awake.”

Falling back on her bed, she tries to go back to sleep, but Venessa rips her covers off of her. “Its noon, sweetie. you can’t sleep the whole vacation away.”

Bloom drags herself out of bed, mumbling something about why not. Her mom scolds her about staying up so late last night reading about fairies.

Downstairs, bloom walks past her dad and towards the stove. Grabbing toast, she tells her dad about the trip her classmates are going on and not-so-subtly asks if she can join them. Mike tells her that she can when she’s older while Bloom groans that she is already 16.

“Only. 16. You mean. You’ll always be my little girl.”

“It's not fair, all my friends holiday by themselves now,” Bloom says as she thinks about their family vacation at the same old beach every year. 

Just as thoughts of being seen as a baby for the rest of her life begin to devastate her, Mike excitedly says, “well, as a consolation, we have a gift for you outside. A little something to help you get around Gardenia,” Bloom brightens up and rushes outside to see what her present is, hoping that it was a scooter. 

Her excitement left as fast as it came when she saw her present. A bike.

“Oh. thanks mom and dad, i- i love it." Bloom's disappointment seeps from her words as she walks towards the bike and starts to move it.

Mike puts an arm around Vanessa, proud of himself, while watching bloom start to pedal away. Vanessa frowns, telling Mike that bloom was probably expecting something more “sophisticated”.

“A bike with a speedometer?” Mike asked.

“A scooter, Mike.”

“But scooters are dangerous, Vanessa, and they cost a bundle.”

“We'll try to put some money aside. Maybe next year...” They continue discussing as they go back into the house. 

Bloom rides away from her parents with kiko in the basket. On the way to the creek, Mitsi stops her, sneering, “Heyy bloom. No vacation again? Poor thing”

“Hello to you too, Mitsi. And we are going away soon.” Bloom rolls her eyes.

“Same old beach huh? I'll send you a postcard from Italy. Give you a glimpse of an actual vacation.” Mitsi turns away, yelling at the people who were unloading her brand new scooter. 

When Bloom reaches the creek, she sets Kiko down, letting him run around while she prepares to sit by the stream. Just a second later, Kiko comes running back into Bloom's arms. She asks what's wrong and Kiko only shakes his head. Bloom holds him in her arms and starts to walk further from her bike. She starts hearing fighting sounds, the deeper she goes.

Reaching a clearing, she sees a battle between a girl, and a few monsters.

Bloom watches as bright light is shot out from the girl’s staff, hitting the smaller monsters that disintegrate into piles of ash on the floor. The larger, putrid yellow monster shouts almost unintelligibly, “Hand over the sceptre, little fairy.”

Fairy?

Bloom was convinced she was dreaming because fairies… didn't exist, did they?

The fairy reacted a little too late, getting knocked down by the yellow monster, dropping her sceptre. The monster waltzed over and picked it up, “thanks, fairy.”

Bloom’s legs moved before she could think, running in front of the monster, “stop!”

Laughing at the puny human before it, the monster grabbed bloom by the wrist and shook her around. Bloom shut her eyes, expecting the worst as her wrists felt as though they were going to be crushed. In a moment she could barely explain, her body felt warm for a split second before falling onto the ground. 

The fairy used this moment to dart over and snatch her sceptre back when the monster loosened his grip on it, taken aback by what happened.

“SOLAR BEAM!” The fairy shouted, pointing her sceptre at the monsters, killing them in a huge wave. One of the little monsters ran up to Bloom and bit off a chunk of her pants before running away. 

The yellow one came to his senses just in time to command the rest to retreat, and disappeared. Back to the cave where they came from, to report their doings to their Masters.

After that, the creek was silent. Bloom and the fairy were lying on the ground, both exhausted. Bloom got up first to look around for any more dangers, and approached the fairy next. 

A fairy. 

She could hardly believe it. Shaking the fairy by the shoulders proved that she had fainted, so bloom brought her home, not forgetting the sceptre next to her. 

It wasn't easy cycling with a girl on her back, but bloom made it. Her parents rushed out of the house to help her bring the fairy in and laid her on the couch. After they made sure the fairy was settled in, Bloom started telling her parents everything that happened.

“Bloom, I'm not sure I understand. Could you run that by me again?”

Bloom was exasperated, she already recounted the story to them 3 times, but her dad still did not believe her. 

“I think we should call the police and take this girl to a hospital.” Mike insisted. 

“Dad, at least wait for her to wake up, we don't even know what she is yet.” Pacing around, Bloom runs her hands through her hair.

“Wait, she’s coming to,” Vanessa turns to the fairy, “how are you feeling, dear?”

The girl slowly sits up, groggy and unsure. However, that all seemed to go away when she felt her left hand empty. 

“My Ring! Where’s my-”

“ - It's on the table next to you,” Bloom sat down next to her, “i thought it was a sceptre, how did it shrink like that?”

The fairy regains her composure after putting the ring back on, saying it's sort of a magical family heirloom and introduces herself as Stella, thanking Bloom for helping her at the creek. She notices Mike inching closer to the landline and casts a simple transmutation spell to turn the phone into a carrot. 

“Oops, Sorry did you need that?” Mike drops the carrot, nervously laughing as Stella turns it back into what it was. Bloom looks at him smugly.

After a bit of discussion, Mike and Vanessa relent and let the girls go to Bloom’s room, turning in for the night. 

Stella explains that she is a fairy from a planet called Solaria in the Magic Dimension, or Magix, where magic is integrated into everyday life, and that the monsters were an Ogre and its minions. She also compliments Bloom on her energy blast, saying that she must be quite a powerful fairy.

“Wha- no- i’m not a fairy, i don't think…”

“You have to be. Humans can't just shoot energy blasts like that, you know?” She says as she angrily fiddles with what looks like a phone.

“But, I can't do it now.”

“Well, strong feelings like fear, could have summoned your dormant powers. I’m sure they were always there, you just didn't know it. And - magic takes practice and concentration… I suppose you could learn that at Alfea, if you want to come, that is.” After some intense tapping, and a small magical burst, she smiles at her phone, and puts it away.

“Al-fea?”

“It is the top school in Magix for young fairies like you and me,” Stella throws down a postcard from her pocket and it enlarges as it lands on the ground. “C’mon, just follow me.”

Stella steps on the now floor mat sized postcard and starts sinking in. Bewildered, Bloom follows her and stands on the card shakily, jumping a little after she starts sinking in as well. 

On the street outside, the Ogre from before is followed by an even larger blue monster tracking bloom’s scent with the piece of her pants. As bloom and stella sink into the postcard and take a look around, their scents disappear, leaving the blue monster confused.

Their scent reappears to the blue monster when the two girls return from the postcard, and they advance on Bloom’s house. 

Stella is more on edge when they return, sensing something dark nearby.

“Fairies! It's totally ridiculous.”

“Mike, it's not ridiculous. It's true. Come on, admit it! You and I both know that Stella is a real fairy, but you're afraid to believe it.” Vanessa watches as Mike worriedly stalks the kitchen and adds, “Mike, if this is Bloom's true nature, who are we to stop her?” 

Mike sighs, but just as he was relenting to the fact that his daughter is a fairy, the blue monster bursts in through the back door. 

“Where is the Sceptre!”

“Right behind you, Troll!” Stella shouts right before she starts to transform into her fairy form. Stella extends her staff and begins to fight. Bloom starts to lure the Minions and the Ogre away, leaving Stella to deal with the Troll. 

“I did not think this through,” Bloom mumbles to herself as she stands in front of the monsters that followed her outside. Seeing one of the minions try to attack her, Bloom instinctively raises her arm, shooting another energy blast at it. Killing it Instantly. Before she had any time to think, the ogre charged at her, and bloom tried to summon her blast again to no avail. She was sure she was dead. 

Suddenly, from the corner of her eye, a rope flies in and wraps itself around the ogre’s neck, pulling it back. Stella gets blasted through the window, landing next to bloom. 

“Oh they're here,” she gets up, getting ready to fight again.

“Who?” Bloom asks, moving behind stella. She watches the guys, holding what seems to be holographic swords, fight the monsters. 2 of them held the troll and ogre at bay, while the other 2 easily sliced through the smaller minions.

“The specialists. I called them earlier just in case.” She lifts herself off the ground, using her staff to shine a bright light at the monsters, distracting them so the specialists have an easier time fighting.

After incapacitating the troll, the ogre disappeared once again in a puff of smoke, and the specialists have no choice but to put the troll in the spaceship they arrived in. 

“Finally. Bloom, meet the specialists,” waving a hand at the 4 boys, “Riven, Timmy, Brandon, and finally crown prince Sky of Eraklyon.”

“Awh Stella, princess of Solaria, you don't have to introduce me like that,” the brunette jokes and turns to look at bloom, “just Sky is fine, and this is our Owl. And you?”

“I’m Bloom. what‘s an Ow-” 

“-Well it was nice helping you girls, but we gotta bounce.” Riven cuts in, pushing the troll into the Owl. 

“Don’t mind him, it was nice meeting you, Bloom. See ya at Aphlea,” Brandon says, walking into the Owl. Stella and Bloom wave the boys goodbye, going back into the house to turn in for the night.

Stella walks into the battle torn kitchen in the morning, using her magic to help fix the bigger messes while Mike uses a broom to sweep up broken glass and debris. They make light conversation about Alphea and Magix. Behind them, Bloom and her mom come down the stairs.

“She's ready.”

“Are you sure about this, honey?” Mike wipes away a tear.

“Yes, dad. I want to go to Alphea and learn about my powers.”

Mike gives Bloom a tight hug, “Call us as soon as you get there and let us know everything. What if you get sick? What if you meet the monsters again? Wh--what if–”

“Dad, I'll be careful, I promise i’ll come home as soon as the semester is over.”

“Did you really think we'd let you go, just like that?” Vanessa puts her hands on her shoulders, “We want to come with you, at least for today.”

“Really? Stella, is it possible?” Bloom's eyes lit up, facing stella.

“Hm, well, i'm not sure, but we can try.” She extends her staff, telling the family to stand closer together and taps the floor twice. A warm glow envelops the 4 of them, temporarily blinding them while they are transported outside Alphea. Mike gawks at the building that stood before them for a few seconds.

“Come on, let’s get going. Registration’s already begun.” Stella says, gesturing to the courtyard in the middle of the sprawling pink building. 

Mike and Vanessa walk forward but are stopped within a few steps by an invisible force, “hey, what is this?”

“I forgot, that's Alphea's magical force field,” Stella sends a spell to react with the forcefield so that Bloom's parents can see it. “I'm sorry, but I'm afraid you can't go any further.”

Bloom drops her suitcase and hugs her parents, promising to contact them as soon as she can. Stella offers to send them home with her sceptre. Mike continually spouts tips and advice until, in a second, they appear back in their home.

“Do you think she’ll be ok, Vanessa?” Mike worries for his little girl, resuming his sweeping.

“Our girl is a tough one, Mike. Remember how we found her?” Vanessa reminisces about the night of the fire, and puts hand on his shoulder, “she’ll be just fine.”

At the Alfea courtyard, Bloom notices a stern looking lady carrying out the registration of the new students. She worries about getting in as she didn't register, or even know about Alfea until a day ago. Pulling out a letter from her pocket, Stella assures her that she will be fine, “That’s just the discipline master, Miss Grizelda. All you have to do is pretend to be my friend, Varanda, the princess of Callisto.”

Bloom picks at her nails, slightly uncomfortable with having to lie about her identity, especially if she is found out. Stella reveals that the real Varanda is not attending this year as she is taking a year off to focus on herself. She gave Stella a letter to give to the headmistress, but since no one else in Alfea knows Varanda, without the letter, no one would suspect a thing. 

Stella makes the letter from Varanda disappear just as Miss Grizelda comes closer, “Ah, princess Stella of Solaria… I wasn't expecting you here this year, considering what you did last year." She looks at the gaping hole to the potions lab, making a comment about how it cannot be used for a while because of the potion effects that were still active in there.

“And you are?” She asks, turning to Bloom, but only paying attention to the names on her clipboard.

“Varanda, princess of Callisto, and my good friend.” Stella tells her.

“Hm, welcome Princess Varanda.” Grizelda extends her hand to Bloom after checking her list and allowing Bloom in as Varanda.

She then gathers the new students and introduces them to Alfea, its rules, and its history. The rest of the teaching staff slowly appear next to Grizelda, introducing themselves as they do so. The last to show herself is Headmistress Faragonda. After Grizelda finishes her speech, she starts the school tour, explaining the architecture and layout of the school while telling the students what their goals should be at Alfea and the 2 other schools around the area, Cloud Tower and Red Fountain.

“Alphea is a 3 year programme, at the end of which you girls will graduate as full fledged fairies, hopefully with your Enchantix.” Faragonda stops at the grand staircase, waiting for the girls to finish checking the names posted on the dorm room doors,” this brings us to the end of the tour, now you're free to roam around, your class schedules are posted in front of your dorms. And for the final time, welcome to Alfea.”

Stella brings bloom to their dorms to start off, telling her that they could explore the rest of the  school more after classes tomorrow. Bloom asks what Cloud Tower is, and Stella starts explaining the three schools in Magix. Alphea, Cloud Tower, and Red Fountain.

“There are many many more magic schools in the dimension, even a few on my home planet, Solaria. But Alfea, Cloud Tower and Red Fountain are the best ones. That's why so a lot of royalty come here.” Entering their dorm, they walk past the common area, looking at the room doors for their names.

“Wow Stella, you’re so lucky having a whole room to yourself. I have a roommate.” Walking in, Bloom accidentally steps on a vine that lets out a screech. This gains the attention of a girl, who introduces herself as Flora. She picks up her plant, soothing it while apologising for messing up their room so quickly. 

“I’m bl-,” Bloom almost gives herself away until Stella reminds her that she is Varanda. “ - Varanda of… Callisto.”

“Wow, Callisto is quite a ways away,” a voice says behind bloom, “hi, im Techna, i'm from Zenith.”

The girls continue to introduce themselves to each other, until their last dorm-mate arrives, who introduces herself as Musa from Melody.

Another screech interrupts the girls, turning around Bloom and flora realise kiko is being flung around by another plant. Flora rushes to make her plants let go of Kiko and starts scolding them, but Bloom tells her not to, saying “Kiko probably tried to eat him, it's not his fault.” 

Flora grabs a starter pot from her desk and magically grows carrots for Kiko, apologising to him. 

Stella speaks up, asking the girls if they want to get dinner in the city. The rest agree, taking this opportunity to chat and get to know each other. They each go and get ready before leaving to catch the bus to Magix.

Upon reaching Magix City, Bloom practically jumps off the bus, excited to look around. She had expected it to look enchanted, magical, but the sight in front of her just looked… like every other big city. 

The girls realise that Bloom’s demeanour changed and just had to ask, “Whats wrong bloom?”

“I- i just expected it to look more… more?”

“More?”

“Like in the books, the fairy tales. Where’s all the magic?”

“That's all imaginary stuff, this is the real world. If you want magic, well… just take a closer look around.” Techna steps forward saying, eyes on her phone searching for a place to eat.

Bloom turns back around to look closer and finally sees the magic. She sees the hover cars, the people levitating their shopping bags, virtual changing rooms through the store windows and colour changing buildings.

“Wow this is even better than i imagined.”

“Told you magic is everywhere,” stella says as she drags bloom forward to catch up with the rest of the girls who were already making their way to a cafe Techna found

At the cafe, the girls bond over favourite foods and music. Techna even started to jam with musa over some techno music. At some point, Bloom tries to take the chance to call her parents but her phone didn't get any reception. Techna asks to take a look, and is fascinated by her phone, saying that its practically ancient technology. Techna magically adjusts her phone and hands it back to her, saying there is an empty corner nearby where she can use to call her parents in private. 

“Hey, mom- yeah i'm doing ok… yeah it's amazing here, i wish you guys were here to see it.” Bloom gets a little misty eyed, slowly adjusting to being so far away from her family for so long.

When she is ending the call with her parents, Bloom sees the ogre from her house and follows him as he sneaks up to the other girls. She prepares herself for a fight but the ogre turns and dashes away. Bloom continues to follow him and finds the trix. She texts the girls about them and to leave but she is noticed and caught by Darcy. 

“Well well well, what do we have here?”

“A little fairy.” Stormy chimes in.

“S - stay back” Bloom tries to cast a spell but she's too weak and it sprinkles onto the floor.

The Trix laugh at her and Icy charges up her ice spell, taunting Bloom in the process, “you call that magic? Let me show you what magic really is.” She snaps her fingers and freezes Bloom in a block of ice. 

The rest of the winx come just in time, not wasting any time, they transform and begin exchanging blows. They distract the trix while moving to shield bloom. Once they were all close enough, Stella uses her sceptre to transport the girls away. 

“Bloom!” Stella rushes to her side, warming her up with her sun powers, “are you ok?”

“Bloom?” Musa cuts in, looking at Stella expectantly. 

Stella freezes up for a moment, awkwardly laughing. She whispers to Bloom if it’s ok letting her real name slip, leading the girls to be even more suspicious.

Once Bloom falls on the floor after being thawed from the ice, she shakilly tells the girls about herself as they return to alphea. “Yeah, so… thats me”, bloom says as they enter through alfea’s gates, only to be greeted by Miss Grizelda and Headmistress Faragonda.

Here they are told my Miss Grizelda and Headmistress Faragonda that they also know the truth about Bloom, and threaten expulsion. Bloom thinks about everything she has been through so far and decides to make her case. 

“Wait, Headmistress Faragonda, please let me stay.” 

“Yeah Headmistress, she is quite a powerful fairy, she would do well here.” Stella starts, and the other girls all join in, talking over one another about why bloom should be allowed to stay.

Faragonda puts her hand up to quiet the girls and analyses bloom for a second. She lets out a breath and lets a gentle smile grow, and accepts her as Bloom of Earth. The girls cheer and exchange hugs until Grizelda yells over their commotion to go back to their rooms before curfew.

“Headmistress, how could you just let Bloom join Alfea like that, she doesn’t have any documentation, where does she live, how will she pay her school fees?”

“It's okay Grizelda, I sense that she is going to be a good addition to Alfea.”

“Well, alright, but-”

“But what”

“I thought all the earth fairies disappeared because of Ogron and his wizards.”

“I thought so too, i guess they must have been a little careless in their mission,” they walk back to their respective staff dorms, “for now we focus on what’s in front of us, have a good night Grizelda.”

The girls giddily make their way back to their dorm, Musa suggesting that they should have a name for their friend group. The girls start thinking of group names back in the dorm common area and Bloom suggests “Winx”

“Winx? What does that even mean?” techna asks. 

“Oh, i don't know. Just, Winx,” Bloom moves her fingers around, letting thin shimmers of magic draw an “X” in the air.

The girls start to smile, testing out the group name in their minds, and decide that it sounds nice, short and sweet. Bloom grabs a piece of paper to doodle their new “Winx” logo. The girls commend her skills and put it on the inside of their dorm door.

The Winx… she could get used to this, Bloom thought to herself as she drifted off to sleep.

[hananoami]

new season of senior hunter contest is out, but i was waiting for the release of the free 5-star memory [Xavier: Unique Aftertaste] before i start my attempts at it. it's an ATK memory for Xavier that also has a bonus DMG Boost +40% if used in your team set up this season. thankfully the heartfelt gifts rewards are still on going so that will help pull some additional resources to level it up. it might be a couple of days before i actually prog this season of senior hunter contest. still need to post the deepspace trials prog i did on sunday. i compiled a bunch of notes real time that's been sitting in my drafts, but the post is messy and kinda all over the place cause i forgot some details. but that's okay. it'll be the first thing i work on tmrw when i have the time. also need to go through the protocores i farmed too. dedicating 200 stamina daily just for this is kinda resource taxing, but the double drop rate rewards makes it worth it. while i'm at it i should also go back to try and 3-star some of the earlier areas for diamond rewards. could probably clear area 7, 8, and maybe 9 without too much trouble now. don't think i can do area 10 yet. should also see if i can get lucky with the 2 kitty card achievements i'm missing this week. didn't they say they were adding more achievements and ways to obtain diamonds? i remember seeing it somewhere, but don't remember the source. guess i'll look more into that tmrw too.

[lovecolibri]

Ahhhhhhhh!!! I'm trying to finish my fic, and my drafts before RNM comes back, trying to figure out how to watch live since apparently we can't get CW here over antenna, preparing for the only sporting event I care about: the entirety of the Olympic Games, AND trying to finish up some asks. I don't have time to ALSO flail over 911 going back to filming on the 12th and already releasing a teaser that the disaster is the one I thought most likely. 🤯🤯🤯

[ontheoddoccasioniwritestuff]

The Rake (Anthony Bridgerton x Reader)

Prompt: “I was holding your hand to convey sincerity and you said something I don’t have an immediate answer to, so I’m going to kiss your hand instead.”

AN: I had a series of hand kissing prompts and I wrote this a while ago for Anthony because I wasn’t really happy with how the show handled the Rake plot line. I’ve got a few more drafted that I might post later, one for Benedict Bridgerton, one for Eddie Munson etc. Let me know what you think.

WC: 1k 

Reader: Presents as a woman, no pronouns or Y/N used

Masterlist

When your family butler Thompson announced the entrance of Lord Anthony Bridgerton for the second time in fifteen minutes, you stood up from the chaise to receive him. However his face was not clear with his usual civility as it had been when he first arrived - before he was taken into your father’s office for a private conversation. 

As if he communicated telepathically, Thomspon closed the door behind Lord Bridgerton once you had curtseyed and he had bowed. He was your chaperone. So this was a private affair, but not a proposal. Of course it wouldn’t have been the latter. You and the Viscount hadn’t even courted. 

Reading this from your thoughts, the Viscount cleared his throat before speaking, “Your father forbids me from courting you, or indeed marrying you.”

Your gaze dropped to the carpet for a split second before you regained your composure, “Did he make known his reasons?”

“He fears that my reputation will taint yours and your family’s.”

You nodded, attempting to collect your thoughts whilst you stalled: “While I do not care to have my father speak on behalf of my future, I will admit that I am unnerved by what the ton has to say about you. However, I wish to hear from you first what you have to say about these rumours of your disreputable behaviour prior to this season.”

It was clear this made Lord Bridgerton uncomfortable: his feet shifted in their new leather boots, his brown eyes found themselves losing their usual ego, and his shoulders struggled to stay rigid. 

When he gathered his nerve back together, he spoke: “The rumours are not entirely unfounded. In fact, until recently, I did not consider the fallout of my actions on myself, my family, and the women I… associated with. That being said, I am firm in my belief that I will carry out my duties as Viscount without returning to my old ways.”

Carefully you arranged your skits as you lowered yourself back to the chaise. You then patted the space beside you.

“Sit with me.”

Your gentle request was taken upon, with Lord Bridgerton perching beside you and just a few inches of space separating your legs. As you continued to speak, he listened closely, like nothing else mattered.

“You must understand that in entering courtship, I consider what future we would have together. How could I be happy, knowing that my husband openly seeks pleasure from other women and that the ton looks on me with pity for being trapped in a marriage like that?”

As Lord Bridgerton processed this, his eyes cast down for a moment, you filled the lack of response with more of your thoughts, for he had not once made you feel like you should hide them:

“Now you have said so yourself, you seek an amicable marriage fit for your future as Viscount, not one of love. I accept that as a statement. But I do not know if I can accept that you have changed so completely and so quickly.” 

“I would not do to you what you have said, if you were my wife.”

“By comparison, you would become as celibate as a priest. Would you be happy with that?”

“I do not seek happiness, only to carry out my duties for my family. You would be my family too, and if that is what you wished, I would follow your example.”

“And once your duties are complete, when my childbrearing hips have been put to use, what then?”

“Y/N, I would never forsake you for the brief pleasures in a whore’s arms. It would be you and you alone I seek. We would be a pair unmatched by anyone. Our lives have changed for the better from the moment we met; it would multiply infinitely when we exchanged wedding vows.” So encapsulated in his speech was I, that I did not notice when he had sandwiched my hand between his. “I would be yours and yours alone, your faithful husband, your partner, your slave.”

You wanted to believe him; you truly did. Every inch of you screamed at your mind to just fall for his pretty words. Even if he did not love you, your dances and conversations amidst promenades were the most entertaining things that had happened this entire season. He would be more than a welcomed partner in the future. You would be taken care of, be given your own duties and Dowager Viscountess Violet Bridgerton to guide you as Viscountess. 

But what was the point, if you were to become a walking embarrassment to the point where you could not show your face without hearing the whispers of Whistledown’s followers wafting over your home life? What kind of wife, host, mother would you be?

“I’m sorry, Lord Bridgerton, I wish to but I still do not know if I believe you.”

His chest slowly shrinking with a sigh, Anthony raised your hand to his lips and kissed the bridge of your knuckles. His touch lingered and his breath tickled over your skin, warmed in his gentle grip. This gesture was not intended to ruin you for other men should silent Thompson at the door spill the beans. It felt like sealing a promise in those earnest brown eyes that made you weak at the knees just looking at you - so thank goodness you were both sitting. 

“I understand,” Anthony lowered your hands to where your knees touched, “So please let me try to prove how serious I am to you,” He said quietly. 

“What about my father?”

“He may change his mind, he may not. It is yours I care about.”

You didn’t know for how long he would try, when you did not have his luxury of more than a few seasons to spend waiting for this change in you and him, before you would have to settle for one proposal or another. But Anthony’s sincerity was all you needed to decide on your course of action. 

You kissed his hand as he had yours. “Then try. Please.”

[beels-burger-babe]

Double Vision

*This is completely self-indulgent as I officially have to wear glasses now and got my first pair today, but I figured to give you guys some content in between me being stuck on the two stupid drafts that I'm writing, I'd give you this I guess this is a series of shorts?? Either way, enjoy! -B*

Summary: It's the night before the first major test of the RAD school year, and MC has been holed up in their room all day. The brothers are concerned and go to check in on them, but they notice something different - MC is wearing glasses

CW: Asmo being Asmo. His bit is a little suggestive at times

LUCIFER

Although he'll never admit it, Lucifer was really concerned when you had disappeared for the entire day.

He was so used to hearing you laughing amongst his brothers, or pestering him in his office, or even just lounging in the living room that your absence had left him feeling like something was wrong.

Using the excuse of bringing you food to prevent you from starving, he comes to your room and knocks once before entering.

"MC, I know your studying, but do try not to forget that you...need..."

He's cut off mid-snark as he saw you staring back at him behind a pair of framed lenses.

His heart stuttered in his chest and Lucifer Morningstar is left speechless.

Your hair was a mess from the countless times you had run your hands through it. There were bags of exhaustion under your eyes, and there was a hand-shaped mark on your face from where you had been leaning into your palm.

But with those glasses, you looked studious and sharp.

If the eye-wear added this much to your beauty when you were clearly sleep-deprived as you were, he couldn't help but imagine how you might look dressed up in business wear with them.

"Lucifer?"

He snapped his head up, as you caught his focus one more, and noticed, with a frown, how you had removed your glasses.

"Did you come here for something?"

Lucifer walked over to your desk and set down the plate in front of you. "I was ensuring that you actually ate some food between all the reading you're doing." He picked up your glasses and casually inspected them (although mentally he was taking note of the style so that he could buy you more). "I was unaware that you wear glasses, MC."

You rolled your eyes and took a bite from the food in front of you. "That's because I don't need to wear them all the time. Just when I'm doing activities that can strain my eyes."

Lucifer hummed and looked closely at you. You rose an eyebrow at the demon, questioning his odd behaviour. Before you could say anything, he leaned forward and gently slid the frames onto your face.

You felt your cheeks heat up as his eyes remained locked on yours, and a sly smile graced his lips. "You should wear them more often," he whispered softly. "You look lovely in them."

MAMMON

Mammon sighed heavily as he sat upside down on his bed.

He was bored. You had locked yourself up in your room all day for that stupid test and had kicked him out since apparently he was "distracting" and "prevented you from getting any work down."

Well, fuck that! He wanted to spend time with you, damn it!

Mammon marched down the hall and banged on the door once before throwing open the door. "Yo human! Studyin' time is over! It's Mammon ti-...time..."

He trailed off for a moment as he noticed you glaring heatedly at him. However, it wasn't the glare that made him surprised. No. It was the fact that the glare was being filtered through a pair of glasses that he had never seen before on your face.

"When the fuck did you start wearin' glasses?!" He screeched and marched over to you, grabbing your cheeks to pull you closer and get a better look.

You let out a noise of frustration and swatted his hands away. "Mammon quit it! I'm trying to study!"

Surprisingly, he pulled back his hands, but he remained barely an inch away from you. "I didn't ask if you were studyin'! I asked about the glasses!"

You felt yourself blush and pulled your face away. "I've always had glasses. I just don't always wear them. That's all. Wh-Why does it matter?"

Mammon opened his mouth to give a retort, before snapping his jaw back shut. His face grew rapidly warm as he scratched the back of his neck. "I-I was just wonderin'! You've been down here for what? 3 months now? And I ain't ever seen you wear them."

You averted your eyes from the clearly flustered demon and nervously played with your hands. "Yeah, well, I didn't really want any of you to see me in them. I look pretty silly and-"

"What the fuck are you talkin' about? You're adorable!!" Mammon shouted before slapping a hand over his blushing face. The two of you stared at each other with wide eyes full of shock. "I-I mean, glasses are cool, ya know? I wear glasses all the time! And if the Great Mammon knows anythin', it's style! So, of course, you look cute- I mean good- I mean gorgeous- I-I mean GAH!" Mammon turned around and stormed out of the room.

A couple days later, you found a pair of tinted glasses, identical to the ones Mammon wears, in your prescription sitting by your door.

LEVIATHAN

Levi groaned as he looked at the books in front of him.

He wasn't the most studious of his brothers, and this test was draining the life out of him. He wanted nothing more than to curl up with you and watch anime, but because of this stupid test you were both holed up in your respective rooms studying.

Leviathan let out a huff as he laid his head on his desk and glanced over at his manga collection. His gaze paused on the side of a particular school manga with the two main characters studying on the cover.

Levi shot out of his seat in realization, "I can just go study with them!!!"

Levi quickly gathered all his textbooks and went straight to your room. He knocked on the door and nervously waited for you to answer.

As the door swung open, Levi's jaw dropped and his books went scattering across the floor.

Glasses. You were wearing glasses. Glasses that made your eyes look slightly bigger and just overall made you so freaking cute. Oh goodness. He didn't know that you could pull off the cool, studious type so well. You were just so cute!

"Oh shoot, Levi! Your books!" You bent down and quickly began to gather them for him. It was just like a scene from an anime!

"S-So kawaii," the otaku muttered, as he tried to hide his red face behind his arm.

The reddening got worse as you looked up at him and tilted your head. "What was that, Levi?"

He frantically waved his hands took his books back from you, "N-NOTHING! Just, um, I-I was wondering if we could study together? I'm not having much luck on my own, a-a-and you look smart, especially with your new glasses, which look amazing, and I-I thought maybe..."

You smiled softly at the otaku's mumbling and grabbed his hand. "Of course, Levi! I'd love to study with you!"

As you pulled him into your room to sit at your desk, Levi blushed and followed behind you, mentally thinking of the number of glasses-wearing cosplays he could get you to try.

SATAN

Satan took a sip of his tea as you sat down at the library table beside him.

Test season had always been a favourite of his for a number of reasons, but this year, those reasons could all be narrowed down to one big one: he got to spend more time alone with you.

It made him more grateful than ever that his brothers were morons and that he was the only dependable demon in the house that you could study with.

He had constructed an easy-to-follow study guide for the two of you that would guarantee both your success for this test. You'd get good grades and avoid Lucifer's wrath, and he'd get to spend time with you. It was a win-win.

He flipped through a textbook to find the subject of the test. "Alright. We should get started if we're going to stick to the plan. Now, how comfortable are you with..." he stopped short as he looked up and saw you staring at him with a pair of glasses on your face.

He blinked.

He had never seen you were glasses before. He couldn't help but think that now that he had, he never wanted to see you without them again. You look so stunning and elegant with them on. He absolutely loved it.

Of course, he couldn't just tell you that though.

Instead, Satan tilted his head and smirked. "You are aware that just because you're wearing glasses, it won't make you any smarter?"

You gasped in mock offence and lightly hit his arm as Satan laughed. "I'll have you know these are prescribed! I have to wear them when I'm doing any strenuous activities."

Satan flashed a roguish smile and went back to flipping through his book. "Pity. I'd rather like to see you wear them more often. You look wonderful," before you even got the chance to respond or acknowledge the light blush on his cheeks, Satan cleared his throat. "Now, on page 364, you'll see..."

ASMODEUS

Asmodeus hummed to himself as he walked towards your room with a basket full of facemasks and nail polish in one hand and a bottle of wine in the other.

You had been tucked away in your little room all day studying, and he just knew that you needed a break. That's where he came in of course, offering you all the love and self-care you could ever desire.

Asmodeus joyfully knocked on your door before slipping inside. "MC dear, I've come to free you from your..." he inhaled sharply at the sight before him.

You were laying on your stomach, kicking your legs behind you as you read whatever book you were studying from, dressed in an adorably oversized sweatshirt. That alone would've been enough to make him squeal.

But you were also wearing glasses.

Asmo shrieked as he jumped onto the bed with you and tackled you.

You let out a yelp as the two of you tumbled to the floor. "Wha- Asmo! Get off!"

Asmodeus giggled and sat up beside you. "Sorry, darling! I couldn't help it! You look so cute with your little glasses. AH! It's delightful," his eyes sparkled with intrigue and pleasure. "Sexy even," he purred as he leaned in close.

You chuckled and pushed Asmodeus away as you stood up. "I'm just studying. The glasses are so I can read without getting a headache."

The demon hummed as he walked back over to the door to regather his supplies. "Well, have you ever considered buying some for accessories? I have a pair or two that would look gorgeous on you. It'd be a shame if the only person who ever got to see how scrumptious you look with glasses was your books," he smirked knowingly as he turned around and saw you flustered.

Asmo grinned and held the basket and wine bottle. "Now enough with the studying. It's time for a break. So sit back and relax, and let me take care of you."

You raised an eyebrow at him, and damn that glare was more effective from behind a pair of lenses. "Asmo," you warned, causing the demon to shiver.

Asmo pouted and gestured to the basket. "Self-care of course. Gee, MC, why must you think such filthy things."

BEELZEBUB

Beel made his way towards your room with his arms full of snacks.

He was proud of you for taking your test so seriously and really putting in the work to do your best, but he was also worried. He had barely seen you come out of your room even once today, and that meant that you probably hadn't eaten enough.

Seeing as you were always carrying around snacks for him, he figured it was time that he returned the favour.

He frowned as he got to your door and realized that he had no hands to knock with. He tried rearranging the food in his arms but nearly dropped the entire load. Beel huffed and stared at the door for a couple seconds before leaning forward and butting it with his head several times.

He heard a groan and some shuffling on the other side before the door opened.

His eyes widened as you stood before him, yawning as you rubbed your eyes underneath your glasses - yes, glasses.

You were always small in comparison to Beel, but now with the glasses, there was something about it that made you look even more delicate.

"Cute," Beel said as he looked down at you.

Your face instantly flushed as you blinked up at him. "H-Huh?"

Beel smiled softly and felt his fingers twitch with the urge to ruffle your hair. "Your glasses. They look very cute," he explained honestly.

You squeaked and quickly took them off, too embarrassed by Beel's forward compliment. "Th-Thanks Beel. They're um, they're just for studying."

The urge to ruffle your hair, or pat your shoulder, or even simply touch you grew stronger, but Beel's hands were still full. So, much like with the door, Beelzebub thought of an alternative.

He leaned down and gently kissed the top of your head. His warm gaze met yours as he gently whispered, "You always look pretty, but with them on, you look even prettier," and then, as though he hadn't just stolen your heart, he grinned and held out the food. "I brought snacks."

BELPHEGOR

Belphie had been wandering around the house late at night in yet another round of restlessness.

He had just walked past your door when he noticed your bedroom light was still on. Belphegor tsked and began making his way over. It was bad enough that he wasn't getting any sleep. He didn't need you picking up on his awful sleep habits just because of some boring test.

Without bothering to knock, Belphie opened your bedroom door. He opened his mouth to tease you but found his words catching in his throat.

You weren't awake after all.

You were passed out on your desk, face smooshed up against an open book with a pair of glasses sitting uncomfortably askew on your nose.

Belphie felt his cold heart melt at the sight.

He let out a deep chuckle and walked over to you. He carefully removed the glasses from your face and snorted at the red lines that had been left in their wake. He pressed gentle kisses to the marks before scooping you up in his arms and carrying you over to your bed.

"Silly MC," he whispered as he draped your blankets over you. "Everyone knows that you're not supposed to sleep with glasses on," he smiled tenderly at your sleeping form as he brushed a few hairs from your forehead. "No matter how cute they may make you."

*And that's that! I hope you enjoyed this cute little thing I just threw together! Sorry I haven't been able to write as much lately. School and work have just been insane and I honestly don't think the workload is gonna get any lighter. Thank you for your patience and your support!*

TAGLIST:

@thegrimgrinningghost @henry-and-the-seven-lords @satans-beloved-riv @cosmixbun @sufzku @victoirey @obey-mes-treasure @kissed-by-a-dementor @yukihaie @justtiarra @mammoneybb @obeys-world @poly-bi-mf @armycandy10 @burrixino @rulaien @pumpkins-mainside-blog @acousticpen @sucker-for-angst-and-fluff @itskrispy @10paradox10

[because-of-a-friend]

Seventeen Reaction: Cooking With Them

MASTERLIST

Ok so I was going to post my other Wonwoo request, but I don’t have a lot of inspiration for that right now and I’m just trying to clear out my non spooky season drafts before October, so here’s this reaction for now! Thanks for this request cooking anon! I truly think it’s so cute and I had a lot of fun writing it!!! I hope you’ll like it a lot! I also hope you’ve been staying safe and healthy as well!

Also did y’all see the Attacca trailer????? OMFG

Warnings: Mentions cooking and food, there’s some cussing in here too

Reminder: Gifs are not mine, links to OPs are always there, so if you like them, go give their creators some love!

CHOI SEUNGCHEOL

I think once you get into the groove of a relationship with Cheol, cooking will actually become a pretty consistent part of your routine. He tries to be responsible for the sake of your health and wallets by not letting the two of you eat out all the time. Don’t be fooled, though. There are only a few recipes Coups can make well without a disaster happening in the middle of it. We’ve all watched him drop that egg on the boat AND that steak on the ground. He gets a little clumsy around food sometimes. Whenever you suggest a new recipe to try, he gets over excited and tends to spill and drop and break a lot of things. The two of you have a lot of fun, though, and are usually prepared for his little mix-ups. It’s also a nice way to ensure the two of you will be spending quality time together at least a few days a week.

YOON JEONGHAN

Jeonghan is the worst about cooking. Definitely the type that when you come in determined to cook dinner that night, he’ll open his mouth and suddenly you’re ordering take out instead without even remembering how he managed to convince you to do that. On the days when you truly do insist, and come home with the groceries for a recipe you want to try and a determined look on your face, Jeonghan will glare at you like a cat that knows you’re about to take it to the vet. As you start cooking and get Jeonghan to help you, he’ll whine a lot. He wraps his arms around you from behind and pouts, “C’mon babe, why don’t we just order chicken.” You’ll grab his arms and lead him over to the counter, “No, Hannie, we’re going to make this. Now chop up the onions.” He’ll help you, but he’ll make sure you know he doesn’t want to. Expect little pieces of onion to be thrown at you, or to suddenly have him tickle you while you’re stirring something, or to have water splashed at you as he washes his hands. He will be a little menace the whole time. It’ll backfire, though when you look at him and go, “Since you had so much fun, I guess we’ll be doing this a lot more often!”

JOSHUA HONG

Joshua is so serious about cooking. Like always covers himself with an apron, gets out all of the kitchen supplies, and all of the food he needs. Everything is all organized on the counter as he leans over it, reading the recipe. He may not always be the best cook but he tries really hard. He’s usually the one that comes to you and asks if you want to try and make a new dish with him. And he’ll put an apron over your head and tie it around the middle, leaving a kiss on your forehead once you’re all set up. He’ll read each step out loud as the two of you go along. He likes the two of you standing so close together preparing a meal that you will get to enjoy with each other. He enjoys domestic things with you, it makes him feel so warm and content. Any mess-ups will result in a rather giggly Joshua who will assure you that it can be fixed. If it’s his mess-up, he’ll get all pouty until you praise him for how hard he worked. If you guys mess up the recipe enough, then Josh will usually say something like, “I guess the final step is to just order pizza instead.”

WEN JUNHUI

Jun is actually very responsible when it comes to cooking. He may joke around the kitchen and blare music and other such antics, but as soon as he’s actually handling the food, he’ll be completely concentrated. The more you two cook together, the better he gets at it. He’s a quick learner, and picks up the talent of cooking quite fast. Sometimes you feel a little useless, just sitting on the counter watching as Jun flies around the kitchen, preparing food effortlessly. Jun will notice when this happens and give you little tasks to help with. If he notices you struggling with anything, he’s definitely the type to take advantage of the situation and come up behind you, put his hands over yours and guide you through it. He claims to just be innocently helping you, but he usually lets one of his arms wrap around your waist to keep you firmly pressed against his front. Then he’ll whisper comments in your ear and kiss your neck. Jun is super flirty. Like sometimes he likes it when you’re just sitting on the counter watching him because he can stop by to kiss you as he crosses the kitchen to his next task.

KWON SOONYOUNG

(Literally why is he like this) 

Soonyoung is no help at all. I feel like every moment the two of you spend in the kitchen together is a recreation of that scene in One Fine Day where he sits there and annoys every one while they try to make a fire lol. Like you’ll realize you made a mistake and Soonyoung will also point it out to you while doing nothing to actually assist you and you’re just sitting there glaring at him like “Really, dude???” Then he’ll do that thing where he shyly smiles and tries to act cute to win your affection back. He occasionally has a bout of helpfulness when you’re cooking in the kitchen. When he does, he’ll try so so so so so hard to help. He’ll enthusiastically ask you what he can do. He also nervously glances over at you every once in awhile so you can confirm that he’s doing everything correctly. He lives for when you tell them that he’s done a good job. When you two are done cooking, he’ll want to feed the food to you, “You did so well baby, taste how good this is!”

JEON WONWOO

Wonwoo tends to be very distracted when you’re in the kitchen together. He’s not always super into cooking so he’ll usually just be on his phone, only looking up when you ask him to do something. He’s also usually very quiet, focusing only on whatever task he’s helping with. He secretly loves when you hold a spoon up to his mouth and ask him to taste test things for you. He’ll get these big puppy dog eyes as he happily accepts whatever you’re trying to get him to assess. You never have to question your cooking because Wonwoo will be very honest about whether it tastes good or not lol. Wonwoo usually prefers to just watch you cook but he will help if you need it.

LEE JIHOON 

Jihoon is also very distracted around the kitchen. He’s a lot more helpful than some of the other boys, though. Since he’s so busy, you usually try to make food on your own. But on his days off, when you’re making a big meal, he’ll come in and help, no problem. He prefers to have music playing to hum along to, sometimes he’ll play you sample tracks from projects he’s working so you can listen to them. Jihoon can get a little bossy in the kitchen. He likes to go off recipe and put in his own spices and such. You’ll complain as he starts to go off course but he’ll just wave his hand at you, “Shh babe, I know what I’m doing.” And then he just sits there adding spices as if Remi the rat is controlling him or something. You may or may not jokingly play that French song from Ratatouille just to make fun of him lol.

LEE SEOKMIN

Seokmin loves cooking. It’s one of his favorite hobbies to explore new recipes and perfect dishes tbh. He usually gets you to cook with him, so when you ask him to cook with you, he’ll be elated. He likes to have lots of fun in the kitchen. He actually prefers to have tons of people around to talk to and loud upbeat music playing. To him, cooking is something to be enjoyed. But he truthfully prides himself on being able to cook a kickass dish. You’re finally convinced that love can truly be a key ingredient in cooking because somehow Seokmin manages to make a perfect meal every time he cooks. The only explanation is that the amount of love he puts into his cooking is what makes it taste so good. Any time you cook with Seokmin, you can expect to dance around the kitchen and laugh at plenty of jokes and taste test practically everything.

KIM MINGYU

(No bc what did he even do this for)

Cooking is a bit more of a chore for Mingyu. Since the boys usually depend on him to cook for them, he sees it as something that has to be done and less as a fun activity. It changes a bit when he cooks alone with you. Cooking becomes a lot easier when he’s not worried about making enough to feed thirteen people. It suddenly all feels slow to him and he can enjoy every moment with you. He also lowkey enjoys watching someone else cook for once lol. He feels calm and content in the quiet of your apartment as he watches you pour different ingredients into the pot you’re stirring. He thinks the image of you absentmindedly talking to him as you cook in the light of the kitchen is the most beautiful thing in the world. The type to just stand by you, rubbing a hand up and down your back and press kisses to your head as he keeps you company while you cook.

XU MYUNGHO

Myungho is NOT going to settle for a mediocre dinner, so if you suggest y’all cook dinner together, it will be a whole thing. You will have to follow every instruction on the recipe to a T, and you will have to let Myungho taste test at every step so he can check the quality. To him, cooking is another art form, and he takes art very seriously. If you’re not going to do it well, then why do it at all? That being said, it’s not like it’s torture to cook with Myungho. He likes to make it fun too. Like making competitions out of who can chop vegetables quicker and stuff like that. He also likes to pretend to be a judge on a cooking show by making ridiculous ridicules about your “form” and “dishes” that you can’t help but laugh at. You two also like to compete to see who can plate the food better and even go so far as sending comparison pics to the boys so they can vote on whose looks nicer.

BOO SEUNGKWAN

Seungkwan definitely tries to help lol. He has very strong points in cooking but also quite a few weak points. But he’s also always somehow able to fix it (like when he brought that kimchi back to life in One Fine Day). … (Why are most of my personality references for the boys from OFD, that was how many years ago????) He’s truly some sort of strange magician in the kitchen. When you’re sure he’s ruined a dish beyond repair, he very suddenly fixes it. It’s honestly so surprising that you end up laughing every time. He likes baking more because it’s an excuse to throw flour at you, or eat dough, or wipe icing on your face. He also thinks spending time together in the kitchen should be fun and that making meals together should become precious memories. The nights where the two of you cook together instead of ordering out are some of his most cherished memories.

VERNON CHWE

Vernon is such a wild card in the kitchen. When the two of you cook together, it will either be a complete disaster or a fantastic success and there is no in between. Like sometimes he’s so utterly confident while cooking, then you turn around for two seconds and when you look back suddenly the whole dish is completely burned and Vernon is just shrugging at you like, “Hey idk how this happened either.” But then one time you pull out an old family recipe for him to make and when Vernon makes it, it somehow tastes better than it ever has before??? And you’re like???? How???? You and Vernon rely fully on luck to make dinner work. Which is why the delivery guy from the restaurant down the street knows both of you very well, considering that half the time, you two end up having to order out instead of eating the dish you were trying to make.

LEE CHAN

Chan’s like “I don’t cook, thanks for the offer tho” when you ask him to cook with you. Chan honestly doesn’t love helping in the kitchen. He will always help you clear the table and wash dishes but he almost always refuses to cook. It’s mostly because he’s worried that he’ll mess up whatever you’re making. So, you start out by getting him to help you with simpler dishes. He’s also the type to nervously watch you the whole time to see if you’ll give him some sort of signal on whether he’s doing it right or not. He’ll ask you questions about what’s going on like every two seconds. He really is very helpful, just hesitant on what he’s doing. He’ll be incredibly proud of himself if he helps you make a super difficult dish. He does eventually come to enjoy cooking with you, since it’s nice to have that quality time and it makes him feel so loved when you patiently walk him through the recipe and help him with every step.

[ppangjae]

PLANET GIRL | part 1

SUMMARY. When Jaehyun turned twenty-one, he started to hear his soulmate’s voice singing an unfamiliar song in his head. He should be happy, right? Wrong. There are two things wrong with this:

He’s taken. He’s off the market. He’s in a 3-year relationship and,

The voice singing in his head is not his girlfriend’s voice.

Now what?

GENRE. soulmate!au | cinderella!au | cupid!reader | college!au | fluff | angst

WORD COUNT. 6k+ words

author’s note. after much consideration, i decided to post this fic in three parts so that it’s not as hectic! you know me, i love adding ✨drama ✨ now, before you come at me for posting this and not a made to fall in love update, this first part of this fic has been done since mid-september. i’d rather release it than let it collect dust in my drafts. so yes, here she is. happy reading!

taglist: @billiondollarworth @cafemochi @stae-yong @chanyeolscoon @ggaayyyong @soothingjae @taestannie @plump-peach @oshmendes @lanadreamie​ @justineasian​ @jjpmoans​ @beryllium-io​ @jaeismytamtation​ @noonapabo127 @hanniesbubble​ 

PART ONE. cupid | PART TWO. jupiter | 2.5 intermission | PART THREE. PLANET GIRL

“Mark, get your ass over here before I do it myself!”

“Holy shit, what’s the rush?”

“Tomorrow’s Valentine’s Day.”

“And what about it?”

It’s that time of the year again; Valentine’s Day. It’s the day where people fall in love or get their hearts broken. But to you, it’s the day where you’re designated to a new target. To put it simply, you’re Cupid. You are part of a family of Cupid’s. However, you hate being called Cupid, you moreso see yourself as a matchmaker. 

Every Valentine’s Day, you’re designated to a new target. As a matchmaker, it is your responsibility to make your target fall in love within one year. If you fail to complete your mission, you will be stripped of your abilities of matchmaking. 

Last year, your target was Johnny. Johnny was an easy target to work with, for he fell in love with the local cafe barista within three months. The two of them are happily dating now and it’s almost as if they’re still in their honeymoon phase. 

Two years ago, your target was your roommate Mark. It took a while for him to fall in love. He was quite difficult to work with because he was so focused on his studies that he barely batted an eyelash at a human of the opposite sex. But you still managed to do it and all it took was to introduce him to Mina, the studious chemistry student who’s been crushing on him since freshman year. 

But this year, you’re not quite sure who to expect. 

“Are you getting your new assignment tomorrow?” Mark finally enters your room after what seems like forever, falling against your bed. He lands and lets out a soft ‘oof!’. You turn away from your desktop to face him. 

“Of course,” you reply with a quirk of an eyebrow. “What kind of question is that? Tomorrow’s Valentine’s Day, the day of love and the day of heartbreak.”

“Are you excited?”

“Not the slightest bit.” You let out a tiring sigh.

“Why not?” He frowns.

“Because I have to stress over someone else’s love life for another damn year.” You shrug your shoulders as you explain. “I already have other things to stress out over.”

“You’re always granted a year per love assignment. A year is enough to make someone fall in love, right?”

You laugh. “A year per love assignment? I wish a year was enough. A year goes by with a blink of an eye. Before you know it, it’s Valentine’s Day again.”

“You’re being too hard on yourself. Why don’t you just skip out on the matchmaking just for this year?” He suggests and you shake your head.

“I can’t.” You purse your lips into a tight line. 

He lets out a snort. “I’m sure it’s possible—”

“It’s impossible.”

There are many great things about being a Cupid; you help people fall in love with each other and the outcome is always beautiful. But there are also many downfalls about being a Cupid, one of them being cursed to never fall in love. You’ve always craved the feeling of being loved by someone. As much as you hate to admit it, you’re needy for love. But the closest you’ll ever feel to being in love is witnessing the love being shared by two people, specifically between your love assignment and their soulmate.

You wonder how it feels to have someone care for you. You wonder how it feels to be sought after. You wonder how it feels to hug someone and hold their hand. But you guess you’ll never know because you’ll never experience it.

“God, I want to throw up.”

Johnny lets out a snort as the both of you pass by the seasonal section of the department store. There’s a plethora of Valentine’s Day chocolates on the shelves, along with teddy bears and heart plushies. Seeing the bright, flashing red on the days leading up to Valentine’s Day is surely a sore to the eye. 

“I know, it makes me want to poke my eyes out.” Johnny sighs.

“And what are we here for again?” You ask Johnny as you follow him to the baked goods section of the department store. Your question seems to be answered when you find yourselves standing in front of a shelf filled with ready-made birthday cakes. You quirk an eyebrow. “Who’s birthday is it? It’s definitely not Mark’s birthday, don’t even try to trick me.”

“It’s Jaehyun’s birthday tomorrow, I figured it would be sweet of me to get him a birthday cake.” He shrugs his shoulders as he points between two cakes on the shelves. “This one or this one?”

You point at the plain birthday cake on the left. “This one. You know what would be really funny? If you printed his face on the cake.”

Johnny looks at you and squints his eyes. “You're a genius.”

You have no idea who Jaehyun is. You don’t even know what he looks like. You’ve only heard of him through Johnny. The both of them host the university’s famous evening radio show, Night Night with JohnJae. You’re a listener of their show, mainly because you are supportive of your best friend Johnny. You’re sure Jaehyun is a great guy, especially since Johnny and Jaehyun share good chemistry with each other. You’ll probably get along with him well if you met him. But that encounter has yet to happen. 

As Johnny hands the cake over to the bakery chef to print Jaehyun’s face on it, he turns towards you. “And now we wait.”

“What time do you have to be at the studio?” You question.

He looks down at his watch. “I’ll make it on time. By the way, Mark has been making great song requests by this SoundCloud artist. From what he tells me, the artist is a student from our university.”

You quirk an eyebrow, gulping nervously. “Who’s this SoundCloud artist?”

“Planet Girl.” Johnny pulls out his phone and opens up the music app before handing it over for you to see. You stare at the artist’s profile. “Do you know her?”

You shake your head in reply. “Unfortunately, I don’t.”

“Damn,” Johnny lets out a sigh. “I was hoping you did. Jaehyun and I want her to be a guest on the show, it could probably help her get more attention in the industry.”

“Sorry to disappoint,” you purse your lips into a tight line. “I only know so many people in my program. I have a very small, closely knitted group of friends. They are the only people I’ve known since I stepped on campus in freshman year.”

“I was hoping you’ve heard of her, at least.” He chuckles. “But damn, her music is so good. I can’t wait until her mixtape drops. I’m sure it’ll be such a banger.”

“I should probably check her out.” 

“You should!” Johnny exclaims. “I wonder who she is.”

You fiddle with your fingers. You stare at Johnny who’s scrolling through the SoundCloud artist’s profile, adding a couple of the artist’s songs to his playlists. You blink and with a slight tilt of your head, you clear your throat. “Yeah, me too—”

“I have an order for Johnny!”

11:51 pm.

“Right before we sign off for the night, do you have anything to say to our listeners?”

Johnny has a shit-eating grin spread across his lips. He comes back into the studio with a birthday cake. It’s not just your typical birthday cake. It’s a birthday cake with Jaehyun’s face on it and it’s blown out in an odd proportion. The candles aren’t birthday candles either, in fact, they’re heart-shaped candles, perfect for Valentine’s Day. Jaehyun lets out a sigh. What is he going to do with Johnny?

“I just wanted to greet our handsome radio host slash Valentine boy, Jaehyun, a happy birthday! We have—” Johnny glances down at his wristwatch before continuing. “—nine more minutes before it’s officially Jaehyun’s birthday and Valentine’s Day. And what’s better than celebrating it with a birthday cake?”

“Is that my face?” 

“Who else would it be, doofus?” Johnny scoffs, pulling out a lighter to light the candles. Jaehyun lets out a snort as Johnny starts to sing him a happy birthday. After the happy birthday song, Johnny frowns and sends him a death glare. “Why aren’t you getting emotional? I did all of this to get that reaction?”

Jaehyun gives him a look. “And so as we sign off for the night, I just wanted to thank Johnny for his efforts in kicking off my birthday on a high note. I also want to greet everyone with a Happy Valentine’s Day. Whether you are happily dating someone or admiring someone from afar, just know that you are all in our hearts.”

“Stop being greasy.” Johnny winces. “Anyways, we’re going to sign off for the night with a song request from Mark Lee! Goodnight and see you tomorrow, here is Loose by Daniel Caesar.”

They turn their microphones off and Johnny pushes the birthday cake towards him. “Quick! Make a wish before the candles go out.”

Jaehyun clasps his hands together and makes a wish. With a satisfied grin, his eyes flutter open and he blows out the candles. Johnny’s taking a video of him blowing out the candles before dipping his finger into the icing. Jaehyun gives him a warning look but it’s too late because Johnny smears the icing on his cheek.

“You little shit—” 

“It’s midnight! Happy birthday, Jaehyun!”

12:01 am. 

It all happens quickly. Johnny’s dipping his fingers into the icing to smear more of it on Jaehyun’s cheeks. Jaehyun hears a slight ringing in his ears and his eyebrows knit together. Johnny doesn’t seem to notice how uncomfortable Jaehyun feels until he’s about to smear his cheeks with icing. 

“Jaehyun, are you alright?” Johnny asks him with a concerned look.

The ringing in his ears halts to a stop. He remembers this. He remembers his father telling him that he experienced a distinct ringing in his ears before he started to hear his mother’s voice humming in his head. Jaehyun blinks. The ringing in his ears causes him to see different specks of colours, red, blue, and even green. He feels like his head is spinning. He feels like he’s going to pass out. But it only happens for a brief moment.

Suddenly, he hears a soft voice humming a melody in his head. In an instant, the soft humming in his head stops him from seeing colours and he no longer feels faint. He’s too absorbed in his thoughts to snap back to reality. Johnny is waving his hand in his face to pull him out of his trance. Jaehyun sucks in a deep breath, almost like he’s gasping for air. The soft humming in his head slowly turns into a voice that’s singing an unfamiliar song. He’s never heard this song before.

Johnny sighs with relief when Jaehyun snaps out of his deep trance. Jaehyun looks at Johnny with slightly widened eyes. 

“Johnny, I think we have a problem.”

Johnny snorts. “What are you talking about? You’re probably just tired. We should head back to the dorms before you knock out cold in the studio again.”

Jaehyun runs his fingers through his hair. “R-Right. We should probably go.”

Johnny rests his hand on his shoulder. “Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, everything’s—everything’s alright.” Jaehyun stutters.

No, nothing’s alright. Nothing’s okay. 

His phone buzzes in his pocket. He pulls it out to see a new text notification from his girlfriend. 

ara (12:03 am): happy birthday my love! and happy valentine’s day! i love you 3000.

Jaehyun just turned twenty-one. Not only that, but he just started to hear his soulmate’s voice in his head. He should be happy, right? Wrong. There are two things wrong with this:

He’s taken. He’s off the market. He’s in a 3-year relationship and,

The voice singing in his head is not his girlfriend’s voice.

Well, shit. Now what?

It’s the day you dread with your entire existence; Valentine’s Day. The campus couples flock to the local cafes and parks, the dormitories and even the campus football field. It truly makes you want to throw up. If you could take a shot of vodka for every time you’ve witnessed a couple kissing or giving each other their Valentine’s Day chocolates, you’d be shitfaced drunk by now. 

The only person keeping you sane is Mark. But even with Mark’s presence, he’s too absorbed by the presence of his own girlfriend, Mina. You guess this will do. It’s not like you really have a choice.

Today, you’re going to get your new love assignment. You’re not sure who to expect. Every year, it’s become less surprising and more disappointing. You guess it has to do with your aching desire for love, but you’re not going to dive deep into that. 

You’ll know who your love assignment is when you meet their eyes. When you meet your love assignment’s eyes, you won’t see yourself reflected through their eyes, but their soulmate, their partner you’re supposed to link them to. The moment you witness it, your year to make them fall in love begins. 

Be careful though, time is ticking.

“Can you guys stop talking to each other in baby voices?” You snap at the couple sitting next to you on the picnic blanket. 

The couple had decided to bring you along on their picnic date, just because they figured that you needed to ‘spice’ your life up a bit. You feel like a huge burden to them because whenever you’re with them, all you do is complain about all the things they do as a couple. Could you really blame yourself at this point? 

“Y/N, if only you had a boyfriend, you would know how it feels.” Mina sticks her tongue out at you and you feel your eye twitch. 

Mark lets out a nervous laugh. “Y/N is an independent woman who doesn’t need a man—”

“Yeah, your boyfriend’s right.” You cut him off, looking at Mina dead straight in the eyes. “Got a problem with that?”

“Stop giving me attitude—”

“And stop acting like I didn’t help you and Mark get together.” You snap.

She smiles and laughs sheepishly. As she gets up onto her two feet, she dusts off her straight-cut jeans before pointing towards the local cafe. “Do you guys want anything? My treat.”

“I’ll have the usual,” Mark replies. “Take my card—”

“Babe, no—”

“I’m not letting you pay for our drinks again—”

You let out a scowl, placing some cash into Mina’s hand. “Here. I’ll pay. I’m this close to ripping my hair off my scalp and it’s because of you two.”

“Did you wake up on the wrong side of the bed this morning?” Mina frowns. “You’ve been petty all day.”

“Get me a double shot on ice,” you mutter. “No sugar or cream. Got it?”

“You’re just like how you like your coffee,” Mina folds her arms. “Bitter.”

As Mina is walking away from you and Mark, you fall back against the picnic blanket. The clouds come by in funny shapes today. You spot a tiny, heart-shaped cloud floating past in the blue skies. You snort, love seems to be everywhere today, even in the skies. Your eyes flutter shut. You’re so close to dozing off into a quick nap until you hear a loud yell from a couple of metres away. It’s too late for you to open your eyes and see who’s yelling because the moment you do, there’s a soccer ball flying in the air. The size of the soccer ball grows when you start to realize that it’s literally going to land right on your face—

“Nice save, dude.” Mark says as he looks at you with amusement. Just in time and with your fast instincts, you managed to cover your face with the palms of your hands to catch the ball. 

Mark’s pulling you up into a seated position. As you sit up, you see someone approaching you from the corner of your eye. 

“I’m so sorry about that!” A soft voice exclaims and you turn to your right. You look up at a woman around your age. She has long black hair and a soft face. She looks warmhearted. Her vibe radiates happiness and happy-go-lucky, welcoming and sociable. Everything you’re not. She’s sporting a soccer jersey and a pair of athletic joggers. “Are you alright? I hope you didn’t get hurt or anything.”

You wave it off. “I’m A-okay. There’s nothing to worry about. Here’s your soccer ball.”

She slightly bends down to retrieve her ball. Her long black hair blocks your eyesight for a brief moment until the wind blows it away. Your eyes meet hers and a soft gasp threatens to escape your lips. 

You’ll know who your love assignment is when you meet their eyes. Her eyes are a nice warm brown, shining underneath the sunlight. You swear you could see stars in her eyes. No, scratch that, you can see galaxies and stars in her eyes.

When you meet your love assignment’s eyes, you won’t see yourself reflected through their eyes, but their soulmate. And indeed, you look at her with slight surprise and shock when you don’t see your own reflection through her eyes. Instead, you see what seems to be a soccer player. The more you look into her eyes, the more information you obtain about her soulmate. He slowly turns around and it reveals his name on the back of his soccer jersey—

“Yuta?” You whisper.

The woman’s eyebrows knit together in confusion. She takes her ball and straightens up her posture. “Thanks again. What’s your name? I feel like I’ve seen you before.”

You snap out of it. “Y/N! My name’s Y/N. Nice to meet you.”

She smiles and her eyes form into beautiful crescents. “Nice to meet you, Y/N. I’m Ara. I should probably get going before I run late for lecture. See you around?”

You nod your head vigorously. “Yeah, I’ll see you around. Nice to meet you too, take care.”

You find yourself staring at her as she walks away. Mark looks at you as you seem to fall into a deep trance. He follows your gaze that falls on Ara. “Hey, is everything alright?”

You tear your gaze away from her to look at Mark. “What’s her name again?”

Mark looks at you with a funny smile. “You forgot her name already? Her name’s Ara.”

“Mark,” you gulp nervously. “She’s my love assignment for this year.”

Mark’s face pales. His funny smile vanishes from his face. He looks like he’s seen a ghost. You can’t seem to comprehend the expression on his face but you know that something’s not good. There’s an unsettling feeling in the pit of your stomach as Mark’s mouth hangs open.

“You’re joking, right?” Mark frowns. “How could Ara be your love assignment? That’s—That’s impossible, I—”

You shake your head. “I’m not joking. I didn’t see myself reflected through her eyes, I saw Yuta—”

“You saw Jaehyun.” Mark cuts you off. “Right? Jaehyun. You saw Jaehyun, right?”

You let out a nervous laugh. “Why would I see Jaehyun? I didn’t see Jaehyun. I saw Yuta, the university’s soccer team player. He was wearing a jersey and he turned around. I saw his name printed on his jersey. Nakamoto Yuta—”

“Please tell me you’re kidding.” Mark winces.

“I’m not kidding!” You exclaim in a panicked voice. “Why would I be kidding?”

Mark palms his forehead and lets out a laugh of disbelief. He shakes his head. You stare at him questioningly. What’s happening? What’s going on? 

“Mark, you’re confusing me.” You say with worry etched on your face. “I am telling you the truth. I saw Nakamoto Yuta reflected in her eyes—”

“Ara is Jaehyun’s girlfriend. They’ve been dating for three years. Now you’re telling me that Ara’s your love assignment and you don’t see Jaehyun reflected in her eyes… but Yuta?”

“Holy shit.”

“I’m back with our drinks! Wait, what’s wrong? Why are you guys looking at each other like that?”

The image of Yuta’s reflection in Ara’s eyes never seems to leave your mind. In fact, it has been the only thing haunting you ever since. The revelation leaves you in nothing but a spiralling mess. You are required to make Ara fall in love with her soulmate, who so happens to be Yuta. But at the same exact time, to complete your mission, you must do something to end Ara’s relationship with Jaehyun.

You wish it was a joke.

It all comes down to whether you have the heart to lead Ara to her destined soulmate and end her relationship with Jaehyun or leave things for her to figure out but lose your matchmaking abilities as a Cupid.

The sticky situation makes you want to pull your hair off your scalp. It makes you want to look up to the heavens and yell at your ancestors for being Cupids, for passing down their matchmaking abilities to every generation after them, and for passing down the curse of never falling in love. 

“Stop thinking about it too much, it’s making you age faster.” 

You glare at Mark. “I don’t even know Jaehyun personally but I’m sure he’s a great guy who deserves everything in the entire universe, not some soccer player and a so-called Cupid to ruin his three-year relationship with Ara.”

“What happens if you don’t make Ara fall in love with her soulmate within a year—oh, Johnny, hey!”

Your mouth clamps shut and your head whips around. Johnny occupies the empty seat next to you and greets you with a light nudge. He nods his head at Mark. “What happens if what?”

Mark gulps nervously. He lets out a squeak. “Nothing!”

Mark makes eye contact with you and you give him a warning gaze. Johnny shrugs his shoulders and brushes off the conversation by starting a new one. “Tonight at six. Jaehyun’s apartment. We’re going to have a chicken and beer night.”

“This is exactly what I needed—” Mark points at him.

“I think I’ll have to pass on that one. I have a—” 

“Uh, no you’re not.” Johnny shakes his head. “What excuse are you going to tell me this time? Your excuses are getting lamer every time. It’s quite obvious.”

You sigh. “I’d rather study. Besides, I have a midterm coming up and the last thing I want is to tank it.”

“It’s just one night. Chicken and beer. Who turns down chicken and beer? With friends, too?” Mark tries to convince you but you’re using your eyes to communicate the idea that this will not turn out well.

“Who’s coming?” You tear your gaze away from Mark when he doesn’t seem to take a hint. You’re reaching for your water bottle to take a quick sip of water.

“It’ll be me, Mark, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Ara,” Johnny recalls the guests from the top of his head. “Oh! Yuta is coming too—”

You choke on your water. As you’re going through a coughing fit, Mark grabs your water bottle to prevent any more water from spilling onto the table. Johnny pats your back. “Y-Yuta? As in, Nakamoto Yuta?”

Johnny smiles. “Indeed. Why? Do you have a crush on him or something—”

“No!” You and Mark blurt out in unison.

Johnny gives you both a funny look. “Okay, geez, I was just joking around. Unless, you do, have a crush on Yuta, Y/N—”

“Look who we have here.” 

It’s a foreign yet familiar voice. You’ve heard that voice somewhere. You sneak a quick glance at Mark, whose eyes are wide like saucers. You could see his Adam’s apple bob up and down as he gulps nervously. Mark’s eyes trail down to meet yours. 

“Jaehyun! Ara! Perfect timing!”

Definitely not perfect timing. You mirror Mark with the same wide eyes. It’s almost as if you’ve shrivelled up or froze up into an ice statue. Johnny doesn’t seem to notice you shoving your things into your tote bag out of sheer panic. Mark’s eyes dart between you and the newly-arrived couple. 

“Hey, sorry, I completely forgot that I have a meeting with my group for our project.” It comes out as a squeak. Everyone’s looking at you and you can’t find the strength to look at any of them in the eye. But you can surely feel the attention that’s been shifted towards you. 

“Leaving already?” Johnny pouts. “I just got here—”

“Sorry!” You exclaim, standing up from your seat and making a beeline for the exit doors of the study room. You look over your shoulder. Johnny has a cute pout on his lips as he watches you scurry away from them. “I’ll make it up to you!”

“You’ll make it up to me by joining us tonight for chicken and beer!”

When Jaehyun and Ara take up the spot you used to sit at, Mark can’t help but look at Ara with round eyes. He just can’t seem to look at Ara the same way anymore, especially when she’s with Jaehyun. Mark decides to settle his gaze on Jaehyun instead, but he still feels the same. He can’t look at Jaehyun the same way either. The first person that comes to mind when he looks at the couple sitting across from him is Nakamoto Yuta. The second and last person that comes to mind is you.

There are two innocent people being brought into this mess. It’s you and Yuta.

And what’s worse is that Jaehyun and Ara are just as innocent.

You and Mark find yourselves standing in front of Jaehyun’s door. Surprisingly, it’s quiet. You don’t hear Johnny’s loud voice through the thin door. Instead, right when Mark knocks on the door, you hear someone’s faint shuffling that gets louder and louder as they get close to the door. The door swings open and your mouth slightly parts open. This is—?

“Jaehyun!” Mark exclaims, crashing into Jaehyun’s arms. 

You stand there awkwardly as you watch them embrace. Jaehyun pats Mark’s back until his eyes meet yours. Jaehyun. You’ve known of him. But now that you can put a face to his name, you’re immediately brought back to your freshman year, specifically your freshman orientation week. You’ve seen his face before. Jaehyun was amongst the popular freshmen in your year mainly due to his charisma and charm. By the end of freshman orientation week, he had become a magnet that attracted everyone to him. But not only did you remember him from orientation week, but you remember being one of the many people who were attracted to him. He had become your first university crush, but ever since orientation week, you never saw him again.

Until now.

“I’m guessing you’re Y/N?” Jaehyun asks and you find yourself snapping out of your trance. “I’d be surprised if you weren’t.”

You slowly nod your head. “Yes, that’s me.”

“The one that was scurrying away earlier?” He chuckles.

You roll your eyes. “God, please don’t remind me. That was embarrassing.”

“Nice to meet you,” he smiles and oh boy, are those dimples? 

You swoon. Too bad Jaehyun’s off the market. But at the same time, it’s a shame that you’re going to be the one to ruin his relationship and put him back on the market. You muster up a smile. “Nice to meet you too, Jaehyun.”

You and Mark make yourselves comfortable in Jaehyun’s apartment. Your eyes scan the place and just by the small touches to his apartment, you can pick up what kind of person Jaehyun is. From the LP turntable sitting in one corner of the room accompanied by a great stack of records—he has some exquisite taste in music—to the mini fridge filled with bottles of wine, you can tell that he’s a young man with an old soul. You turn to your right when you spot a piano and a microphone stand. It’s a makeshift studio in the opposite corner of his living room. He sings?

“I’ve heard many things about you from Johnny,” Jaehyun starts a conversation as he hands you a can of beer. “And Mark, of course.”

You open the can of beer to take your first sip, making sure to squint your eyes at Mark. “I hope they’re good things.”

He smiles. “There’s nothing to worry about. They put you up to the highest standard.”

You cough. “As they should.”

Mark scoffs. “You’re being too obnoxious right now.”

“Shut up,” you mutter, taking another sip of your beer. “What’s taking Johnny so long to get here? After scolding me for bailing out on every single function, here he is, pulling up later than promised.”

“Speaking of,” Jaehyun says as he stares at his phone. “His uber just pulled up. I’ll meet up with him downstairs. While I go fetch him, make yourselves comfortable.”

Jaehyun leaves you alone in silence. The moment Jaehyun shuts the door, Mark shoots you a cheeky grin. He’s wiggling his eyebrows at you and you can’t help but squint your eyes at him. 

“Why are you looking at me like that—”

“You like him, don’t you?”

You scoff in disbelief. “I do not like him like that—”

“You do.” Mark cuts you off. “I’m getting that type of energy from you—”

“Well, sorry to disappoint, I don’t like him like that. Besides, he’s in a relationship with Ara—”

“He’s in a relationship that you’re destined to end.” Mark reminds you and you frown. “What? It’s true!”

You shake your head and with a stern voice, you say, “I don’t like Jaehyun. I just find him... charming.”

“That’s all—”

“And handsome—”

“Oh—”

“And sweet.” You add. “But other than that, I don’t like him. I’m Cupid, remember? I’m cursed to never fall in love and so the chances of me liking Jaehyun? Very slim.”

Mark smirks. “But you find him charming, handsome, and sweet. Isn’t that more than enough to like someone?”

“There’s a very distinct line drawn between infatuation and love, Mark.” You state with a matter of fact. 

“So, you’re infatuated with Jaehyun—”

“What’s up party people, put your hands up!”

Both of your mouths clamp shut at Johnny’s freakishly loud voice echoing the apartment the moment he walks in. You dumbly put your hands up and Mark lets out a loud cackle. Entering right after him are Ara and—

“Yuta, my right hand and my go-to!” Mark exclaims.

You wish you were invisible, especially when Ara spots you on the couch and sends you a wave. You’re mustering up a very tight-lipped smile as you wave back at her. Great, this is going to be a long night. Jaehyun follows suit, throwing his arm over Ara’s shoulder and pecking her cheek. Mark sneaks a glance at you as you’re tearing your gaze away from the couple to take another sip of beer.

“Y/N actually came for once,” Johnny teases you. 

Everyone gathers around the small coffee-table. Scattered on the small table are three boxes of chicken along with a can of beer for everyone. You’re sitting right across from Yuta, who hasn’t uttered a single word since he got here. But surprisingly enough, his eyes meet yours and you quickly look away. Your heart begins to race. 

And your heart starts to beat much faster when Yuta never seems to break his stare at you for the rest of the night.

Yuta has definitely seen you before but he can’t seem to pinpoint exactly where he’s seen you. It must have been a fleeting moment, where the both of you passed by each other unknowingly. But after looking into your wandering eyes, after watching you chug a can of beer right across from him, he has found his answer.

Valentine’s Day.

He was biking on his way home after a three-hour lecture. Too many couples. He remembers the excessive amount of couples strolling down the busy streets. He remembers having the urge to rip his eyes out whenever he came to a stoplight and spotted a couple sharing a passionate (way too passionate) kiss. But he also remembers the sudden loneliness he felt.

Ara. He’s always found her pretty in her own special way. His first encounter with Ara was when she auditioned for the co-ed soccer team. He was seated at the bleachers as one of the head coaches who chose the new team members. She was everything he adored in someone. It was like she had her own glow whenever she ran down the field, with her hair bouncing as she ran. 

But too bad because she’s—

“Taken?”

Jaehyun let out a sigh on the other phone line. Yuta pursed his lips into a tight line. “Listen, I tried to get those concert tickets for you tonight through my connections. But all of the available seats are taken. Well, there are still some seats but the seats you wanted are gone.”

“Do you have tickets for other seats?” Jaehyun questioned.

“Yeah, but the seats are pretty far from the stage. Are you alright with that?”

He heard distinct chatter on the other phone line. He heard Ara’s soft voice and a smile threatened to escape his lips. Right… she’s taken by Jaehyun. “We’ll take them!”

“Perfect.” Yuta chuckled. “I’m on my way to your apartment, actually. I’ll be there in a couple of minutes to give you the tickets.”

Yuta turned to his right and into a familiar neighbourhood. He slowed down his bike when he reached Jaehyun’s apartment building. As he headed up a couple flights of stairs, he reached Jaehyun’s apartment completely out of breath. The door opened and he saw—

“Oh, hey, Ara.” He scratched the back of his neck nervously. “Is Jaehyun here?”

Ara beamed up at him and nodded her head. “Come in. You look like you’re out of breath. Do you want a glass of water, or something?”

“I’m good. Thanks.” He mumbled, too shy and nervous to utter anything other than those three words. Ara bit her lip to stop herself from smiling. God, why is he so nervous around her?

“Yuta!” Jaehyun said in a sing-song voice, greeting him with a fist-bump.

“Hey—oh?”

Yuta clamped his mouth shut when he looked into Jaehyun’s eyes. Jaehyun’s eyes sure do look pretty, he could see stars shining back at him. But that’s not what he saw.

He saw an unfamiliar woman. He’s never seen her before.

In Jaehyun’s eyes, he saw a woman holding what seemed like a microphone. She had headphones on and her face was illuminated by what he assumed was a laptop screen. She was singing a song he couldn’t hear. Yuta blinked, soaking in every little detail about the woman he saw in Jaehyun’s eyes. But it was not long until his face paled when he realized something terrible.

The woman he saw in Jaehyun’s eyes was not Ara.

Valentine’s Day. It’s the day he dreads the most out of the entire year. It’s the day where he receives his love assignment for the year. He has one year to make his assignment fall in love with their soulmate. But how is he going to do that when his love assignment is Jaehyun? 

Cupids are cursed to never fall in love. Although, Yuta does have sheer hope that he could definitely find love. How could he not, when he’s a hopeless fool in front of Ara? It’s this specific Valentine’s Day that he dreads the most out of all the Valentine’s Days he’s spent. Why? Because while he found out that Jaehyun’s soulmate isn’t Ara, that surely doesn’t mean that he has a chance with Ara. In fact, he’ll never have a chance with Ara. He could potentially be the man Ara will hate the most.

Because one way or another, he must tear Ara and Jaehyun apart.

author’s note. welp, i hope you enjoyed the first part! i should be able to post the second part after all of my midterms. look out for it! thank you for reading!