#cressworth au fic

[mentallyinwalmart]

‘Locked Out’

A follow up to my Cressworth modern AU, ‘Neighbors’  that takes place two weeks after.*

*can also be read as a stand-alone

I hit the buzzer again and again, at this point not caring if he came down here mad as hell. But as the moments ticked by and I remained alone on the front stoop it became clear that the super was not home. 

I looked down at my phone. Two forty am. Three percent battery. I didn't even have the juice to call Liza if I wanted to. Which I don’t. She lived all the way across town, and I don’t have the money to Uber over there. If she’s even home one a Friday night. I sigh as I run my finger absentmindedly over the name across from my own on the buzzer board. 

Thomas J Cresswell 

It is written in slanted cursive, and I feel a slight shiver as I ponder pushing the little black button beside it. But I see a car driving slowly down the street, and the hammering in my chest makes the choice for me. I push the button and hold for a beat, praying he is upstairs. 

I stand on the stoop, shifting as I watch the car out of the corner of my eye, my heart racing until finally at passes me. I let loose a sigh. But my relief is cut short as the intercom crackles and I hear Thomas’ voice. 

“Who is it?” It sounds as if I woke him.

“It’s Audrey Rose.” I say, and there is a long beat of silence, “I--I’m sorry,” sorry I didn’t call, “sorry to wake you but I’m locked out of the building and my phone is about to die.” I twist at the strap of my book bag as I wait for him to say something, anything.

But the only sound remains the faint crackle of the intercom, and I worry he may leave me here, on the stoop of our building. But just as I am about to give up and succumb to the dread growing in my chest, the door buzzes and the lock clicks open. 

I push the button on my end,

“Thank you so much.” 

“Mhm.” Comes the faint response as I quickly enter the building. 

The elevator ride feels longer than normal, but I relish in the solitude of the warmly lit room and the gentle whirring of the mechanisms. I search through my shoulder bag for the millionth time but still can’t find my keys. 

I know they aren’t in there. I can picture them tucked in the pocket of the denim jacket I had abandoned in favor of my wool cardigan this morning. I remember surveying my appearance in the mirror and deciding that my cream sweater would go better with the yellow shift dress and charcoal flats I was wearing then the tight denim jacket. 

I had fully intended on tucking them into my purse, but then Will had called. For the thousandth time. I had answered, told him to stop calling, then slammed the door in my anger. It wasn’t until I was halfway to my six pm lecture that I'd realized I had forgotten my keys. 

The elevator doors open and I exit on instinct, still lost in thought. But before I can decide whether to knock on Mrs Harvey’s door or perhaps just sleep on the roof, it isn’t too cold, I come to a halt as Thomas is standing in the hall.

I take in his tousled hair, the same faded pajama pants as the night we had dinner together, this time paired with a different band tee. I don’t know what to say, so I mumbled the only thing I can think of,

“Thank you. I’m sorry I woke you up.”

We stand in silence for a long beat, him taking in my sundress and thin cardigan and my book bag. His eyes trace across my face and I feel his stare linger on the bags under my eyes and the frizzy ponytail my curls are pulled into. I feel my cheeks flush slightly and I shift my gaze to the floor, wishing he would stop staring at me like that. 

“Do you have somewhere to sleep?” 

His words shock me and I raise my eyes back up to meet his gaze. I open my mouth but no words come out so I shake my head. 

“Come inside.” He says, pushing his door open behind him. 

Some semblance of logic tugs at the back of my mind, but the look in his eyes and the conversations we had shared two weeks ago made me confident that I had nothing to fear from him. And so, despite what my brain was whispering, I trust my instincts and walked in. He follows behind me, closing the door quietly. 

The first greeting I get is the scent of elderberry and pine. I take in the unit, identical to my own in architecture and size, but completely different in decoration. While my own apartment is all string lights and succulents, everything placed just-so, this place feels authentic, and well lived in. Books and papers are spread across the bar counter as well as the coffee table in the living room. There are stray jackets hung on door knobs, a throw blanket strewn across the couch, and two large candles lit on the window sill. 

Though the place is slightly disorganized, it feels cozy and welcoming, as though it will not judge me for arriving with nothing but a dead laptop, a practically dead cell phone, and a bag of books, note and regular. 

“Did you want a phone charger?” Thomas’ voice once again pierces the cloud of my thoughts and I turn my gaze to see he is walking towards the room I can only assume to be the bedroom. 

“I don’t want to put you out--” I start, but he waves his hand. 

“Don’t worry, I’ve got an extra one.” He says, and exits the room with an iPhone charger in his hands. 

He extends it to me, and I smile, hanging my book bag on the hook by the door before crossing the outlet I know to be on the far wall by the windowsill. I plug in my phone and set it on the sill before turning back to see him entering the bathroom. 

“I’ll pull out towels for a shower.” He calls over his shoulder. 

“Really Thomas, I’m alright.” I say, even though a shower does sound heavenly. 

“I insist.” He calls, and I shift awkwardly on my heels, “It’ll give me time to make up a bed on the couch for you.” 

I bite my lip as I make my way over to the bathroom, unable to stop the flushing of my cheeks and the smile that plays at my lips in response to his kindness. 

“Thank you.” I say, and he nods as he offers me two fluffy white towels. 

“These got cleaned yesterday.” He says and I smile. “Holler if you need anything.” 

He leaves the room, closing the door behind him. The layout of his bathroom is identical to my own. The toilet and sink in the first section, then another door that leads to the small room with the shower and bath tub. I enter the second chamber and close and lock the door. I flip the switch for the fan on as I hang the towels on the racks next to the door. 

I turn the water on, testing it with my hand until I find a good temperature. Then I tug off my clothes, leaving them in a heap in the corner of the room before getting into the warm shower. I let the water run over my body as I look through the soaps and shampoos Thomas has in his shower. 

It feels like almost an invasion of privacy to use his shampoo or conditioner, so I opt to suds up the washcloth he had given me with the bar of soap and wash my body using that, simply content to rinse my hair, deciding to wash it with my own supplies when I got home tomorrow. His soap smells like a forrest, but also faintly like flowers. I enjoy the odor that fills the room as wash my body. 

After a few moments, I finish rinsing and turn off the shower, stepping out onto the mat, using one towel to wrap my body and the other to twist my hair into. I step back into the shower to open the window to let some of the moisture escape. 

I leave the shower room and enter the other part of the bathroom, midway through deciding what to do with my clothing. But as I set my wad of dirty clothes on the counter I notice that folded in a neat pile on the corner of the counter closest to the door is a pair of flannel pajama pants and a grey t-shirt. There is a sticky note atop the pile that says ‘these are clean as well, if you want them.’

Before I can convince myself otherwise, I pull on the large t-shirt. It goes down to my mid thighs and I run a gentle finger across the hem. I look at the pants but they are hopelessly giant, and I know there’s no chance they won’t fall off the moment I move too quickly. So I opt for the large shirt and the tight silky shorts I had been wearing under my dress. I slip them on, but you cannot even see them under the shirt. I smile at my reflection before hanging both towels on the bars in the shower room and tucking my clothing under my arm. 

With a deep breath, I reenter Thomas’ apartment. I can hear him in the kitchen, and I pad down the hall, my feet warm against the cool hardwood floors. I make it to the living room/kitchen area and take in the bed he made on the couch as promised before moving to shove my clothes from the day into my book bag before turning back to the kitchen.

Thomas is flushed from his cheeks all the way up to his ears, looking as red as the candles on the window sill. I find myself flushing under his gaze as he takes in the shirt I’m wearing, his shirt, his gaze slowly drifting down my bare legs. I bite my lip before walking towards the bar and taking a seat on one of the stools. 

“Is that for me?” I ask, pointing to one of the two cups of tea he had abandoned half way through making in favor of watching me move about the apartment.

The trance was broken and he gulped, then nodded, adding a dollop of honey into both cups before handing one to me across the counter. I take it and nod thankfully before drinking. His cheeks fade back to a semi normal color, and he walks around the bar to the arm chair in the living room. 

We sit in an extended silence, the two of us taking the time to drink deeply and steal looks at each other. Finally, when I fear I may burst from the tension I speak. 

“What does the J stand for?” Really, Audrey? That’s what you came up with? 

He raises an eyebrow and I gesture towards the door, 

“The J between ‘Thomas’ and ‘Cresswell’.” 

He nods, and a lazy grin spreads across his features.

“James.” He says.

Thomas James Cresswell I let the name roll over in my mind. It flows nicely and I smile back at him. We once again fall into silence. Silence I am not inclined to break for fear I will say something even more ridiculous. And so I nurse my tea in silence until there is nothing left. 

It would appear he finished at a similar time because after one final moment he moved to stand up.

“I think I’m going to turn in. Goodnight Audrey Rose, let me know if you need anything.” He bows his head slightly as he sets the teacup on the coffee table. 

But before he can get up I stand, setting my cup on the counter with a clink. 

“Wait,” I say, and he pauses, “Don’t you want to know why I never called?”

I see him set his jaw, his nostrils flaring ever so slightly,

“I don’t know.” He says honestly, On the one hand, I really do. But at the same time, if you’re going to reject me again I’d prefer we just leave it at you not calling.” The pang of genuine disappointment makes my heart sink and I settle on the couch  beside his chair, biting my lip as I fiddle with the hem of his shirt. 

“That’s not it.” I say, “I have felt bad about it every day, but with each day that passed I felt like it would become weirder and weirder to have called after, well, not having called for so many days.” I look back at him and find him staring intently at me. 

“I’ve had this boyfriend,” I started, “for the last two years. We met in our undergrad program, and he moved here because I got into the grad program.” I paused, “I told him not to, but he did.” I turn my gaze to the floor, “Soon after I started school we began to have problems. He was angry I didn’t have as much time for him as I used to. I realized he didn’t make me happy anymore, and I ended it.”

I look up to see Thomas has also diverted his gaze from mine. 

“That was a week before you moved in.” I say, continuing to fumble with the shirt hem, “And I knew, when you gave me your number, that I wasn’t ready for anything.” I pause, meeting his eyes finally, “Plus Will was still constantly popping by to try and get me back even though I keep telling him I am uninterested,” I pause, biting my lip before continuing, “and I knew that no matter how much I might be interested in using you for rebound sex,” 

His breathe catches in his throat and he coughs, reaching for a bottle of water on the table and I can’t help but laugh. After a moment of him collecting himself I grinned and continued,

“As much as I was attracted to you, and thought that hooking up with you might be fun, you seemed like someone I would genuinely enjoy hanging out with, even if it was just as a friend and I’d hate to ruin that by sleeping with you the first night you moved in.” 

The flush on his cheeks somehow makes me more confident and I meet his gaze as I continue.

“Plus Will can be truly awful and I didn’t want him having any kind of vendetta against you because of my selfishness.” I offer him a wry smile, “And I also thought your sister was your girlfriend until the whole spider thing happened.”

Now it is Thomas’ turn to laugh. After a moment, he settles down and looks to me. And after another long moment, I speak. 

“I’m normally not this open with people.” I say, biting my lip again, “But it is,” I look at the clock on the wall, “past three, and I am sleeping in your apartment, so I think this is already a relationship different then most of mine.” I smile at him, my confidence from a moment ago flickering. 

He leans back into his chair, scratching the nape of his neck with one hand as he raises an eyebrow at me before speaking,

“You seem pretty confident you could’ve gotten me into bed.” He says, narrowing his eyes. 

“Was I wrong, Cresswell?” I ask, leaning against the arm rest, twirling a piece of my hair through my fingers as I scoot slightly closer to him, not bothering to pull down the hem of the shirt that is slowly creeping up my thighs. 

His breath hitches in his throat, and his gaze travels from my lips down to my newly exposed thighs. 

“Fine alright you got me, it might not have been that hard.” 

He closes the distance between us in a heartbeat as he leans forward in his chair, elbows on knees, hand resting on his fist, his lips just inches from my own.

“I’ll tell you, Wadsworth, I think I would've preferred sleeping with you to thinking you were ghosting me.” he moves his mouth a hair closer so he is all but kissing me, “Even if you were just going to use me for my body.” 

“Perhaps,” I say, gaze focussed wholly on his lips, “if you had kissed me like I thought you were going to that night, things might have gone your way.” 

“A mistake I would greatly like to remedy, with your permission of course.” 

And then suddenly I realize I’m back in the same position I was in two weeks ago. I lean back slightly and he deflates as he also pulls away. 

“Thomas it’s not that I don’t want too. I do, trust me, I do.” I say, running my hand across his knee and up his thigh, “It’s just that I don’t want to give you the wrong idea.”

“I’m alright with as much, or as little as you want.” He says, running his thumb over my knuckles. The pads of his fingers are blessedly soft and a shiver runs through me as he touches me. 

“In that case,” I say, leaning back in, “You ought to just kiss me Cresswell.”

---

I hope you guys enjoyed!!! I plan to publish the smutty scene that comes directly after this as a separate post later tonight. Hope you guys enjoyed, let me know if you want to be tagged in the follow up!

xx

tags:

@city-of-fae @nish247 @schmlip-scribble

[dashedwithromance]

“Your betrothed is here, Princess.”

Dread fluttered through her like a trapped bird.

WORTHY OF THE CROWN - COMING SOON

[aleksandermorozovaa]

“Someday I’m going to marry you”

Audrey Rose sat, her eyes scanning her textbook, pen in mouth and absently playing with a strand of hair. Thomas would swear on his life that he’d never seen anything more beautiful, even though hair was falling out her bun, her make up had smudged slightly and she wore an old stained sweatshirt and frayed pyjama shorts she refused to throw away. She looked up at him. The pen dropping from her mouth onto her open notebook on her lap. 

“Why are you smiling at me?” she asked curiously, her eyebrows knitted, her hand moved to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear in an anxious movement. It was a small action but it somehow made something click in his mind. Thomas realised he never wanted this bliss to end, he never wanted to go a day without seeing her smile at him. He wanted to see her when she’s just woken up, and before she goes to sleep each night. He wants to spend the rest of his life calling her his. 

“Because I want to marry you someday” He answered, the words came out as less than a whisper, but she heard. He worried that he’d said something wrong like he often did. Or maybe he had moved to fast, they were only in university after all. 

Before he could say anything Audrey Rose moved, she pushed the notebook from her lap and crawled towards him clumsy.

“Ask me!” She said after she had gotten comfortable on his lap, legs straddling his thighs and arms around his neck. “Thomas ask me” 

He’s taken back at first, shocked she could ever actually consider spending her life with him, she deserved ten times better than a mess of a man like him. But he’d be a fool to let her get away.  

“Marry me?” He asked as his face searched hers, waiting for a reply which never came. Instead, her lips crashed against his. “I love you, Thomas Cresswell”  

[shyvioletcat]

I read your Christmas list of prompts

And I feel like these 3, 14, 38, 62 SCREAM aelin and Rowan (mainly aelin to Rowan) lol

This one is late, I know. But here it is! Another fic for my Rowaelin Holiday Celebration. Set in my teacher au, which includes Camp Shenanigans. Please enjoy. Oh and i just went with 1 out of the 4. It’s the card.

~~~~~

Aelin sighed in frustration. She was great at giving presents, fantastic even. She always knew what to get everyone once Yulemas rolled around. But this year she had lucked out, and it was really bruising her ego.

She prided herself on the annual Secret Santa at work, every year the recipient of her gift gushed about how perfect it was. But this year she had no idea what to get, and that was because she had managed to pull stick-up-his-ass Rowan Whitethorn from the moth eaten Santa hat Lysandra had held in front of her. Her best friend and most likely future cousin-in-law had been incharge of the whole thing but had refused to let Aelin swapped when she asked. That’s the name of the game she’d said and sauntered off.

So now Aelin had dragged Aedion shopping with her, just so she could get some sort of help. Aedion had agreed because he’d managed to pull out a dud himself.

“What do you get Manon Blackbeak?” Aedion mused and he browsed a table of holiday inspired knickknacks.

“Bottle the blood of her enemies,” Aelin replied. “I think she’d drink it straight.”

“She probably would,” Aedion agreed and he left the knickknack table.

Manon worked in the science faculty and was honestly one of the most terrifying people Aelin had ever met. So naturally, after a tense getting to know you period, they'd mellowed out into being respectful collegues and eventually some semblance of friends.

“We’ve got a betting pool going on how soon into the end of year party her and Dorian end up in some closet making out,” Aelin dropped casually. “Again.”

“Does Dorian know?” Aedion asked as they walked side by side to go browse elsewhere.

“Dorian is in on it,” Aelin said. “He thinks a half hour tops.”

“Manon would never let him have it that easy,” Aedion added.

“That’s what I told him,” Aelin said. “And then I also told Manon and she said he’s dreaming.”

Aedion scoffed. “Did you just rig it for yourself?”

“Of course not, I never mentioned the bet to her at all,” Aelin replied innocently.

“Why don’t I believe you?”

Aelin tried not to smile. “Fine I did, I promised to split the money with her.”

“I knew it.”

The cousins had reached a holiday display, decorations, cards, and holiday specific foods all set out.

“Hey,” Aedion said with a grin. “You could give him this.” He held up a card.

Aelin looked over and saw what the card had on it.

Will you be my ho ho ho?

“What, and end up in the middle of a sexual harassment case? No thank you.” Then Aelin added, “Why would I even get that for him anyway? I hate him.”

“Of course you do,” Aedion said like he knew all the secrets of the universe.

“What?” Aelin snapped.

Aedion gave her a grin that made her understand exactly why people tended to get infuriated with her. “Nothing.”

Aelin picked up a candy cane and pointed it at him threateningly. “Whatever you’re thinking, stop it.”

The grin stayed, Aelin wanted to throw something at him.

“Okay, let’s focus here. You’re his friend of sorts. What should I get?” Aelin said, wanting to just get out of the bustling shops by now.

“I dunno, he’s still pretty private even though it’s been six months,” Aedion said.

Aelin sighed heavily. “I’m going to have to do it. I’m going to have to do the mug and pen.” Even just saying it left a bad taste in her mouth. “I don’t know what else to do and you’re absolutely no help.”

She didn’t want to resort to the cliche teacher gift but really she had no other choice. She had to get something. Dragging her feet Aelin walked to the kitchen section to look for the least offensive mug she could find, then she would make her way to stationary and find a nice pen. Why did she have to get Rowan Whitethorn? Her reputation would be ruined.

~~~~

The last day of term rolled around and that evening they had the staff get together in a function room of a local restaurant. They were all standing around snacking, drinking, laughing, holiday songs playing in the background. Aelin held court in the corner with most of her faculty, honestly the loudest group in the room. Although Dorian was off trailing Manon like a lost puppy. The two of them were yet to disappear, Manon holding out to the appointed time. Aelin caught her eye across the room, Manon gave her a wink, Aelin tipped her glass in return.

“Ho! Ho! Ho!”

Fenrys appeared in a very cheap looking Santa suit, foregoing the beard, not wanting to hide his beautiful face apparently. He walked over to the tree and started calling out names, obnoxiously good in his role. Aelin sighed, she was still a little cut up about her more than average present. Maybe she could keep it from getting out, keep her reputation intact. It wasn't likely though, everyone loved the intrigue and gossip of who got who.

“Rowan! Seems that even if you’re a grumpy bastard you still get presents,” Fenrys’ voice boomed in the space.

Rowan made his way to the front, even managing half a good natured smile at the joke as he got his wrapped mug and pen. Aelin had to turn away; she was so annoyed. A few other names were called out then Aelin heard her own. She put her drink down and made her way to Fenrys. He was giving her a winning smile.

“I just want you to know your secret Santa had absolutely no help from anyone,” Fenrys said as he passed her a small package.

Aelin took it back to her little corner, shaking it before she started unwrapping it. What she found inside were her favourite chocolates, her all time favourite chocolates. Chocolate hazelnut truffles. These were one’s you didn't just buy from the grocery store. These were only sold at a little store in the heart of the city.

“Okay, which one of you got me this?” Aelin asked her friends.

No one came forward, adamantly denying it was them, it looked like Aelin would be joining in on the present gossip tonight. It took her a while, but curiously it had been Lorcan to give her the answer she wanted.

“It was Rowan,” he snapped as Aelin had been hounding Connall for information for quite a while. “Now, go away. I’m sick of hearing your voice.”

“Happy Yulemas,” Aelin said far too sweetly. She was too stunned to give him any more of a threat, replaying what Fenrys had said in her head. Rowan hadn’t had any help so how did he know exactly what chocolates to get her? She spotted him over by the drinks table, steeling herself she made her way over to him. Not only had he managed to get her the perfect present, but she had given him such an abysmally awful one she hoped he never found out it was her.

Aelin cleared her throat as she poured herself a drink from the punch bowl. “Thanks,” she said lamely.

“It didn’t take you long,” Rowan said.

“Lorcan gave you up,” Aelin told him and she saw Rowan roll his eyes. “I have to know, how did you find out they were my favourites.”

Rowan gave her a wry smile. “Santa told me,” he said cryptically. “And I don’t mean Fenrys.”

Aelin just looked at him, confused, gears in her head working. Before she could figure it out or ask more questions Rowan was walking away.

“Oh,” Rowan said, turning back to her. “And thanks for the mug.”

~~~~~

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[rosegoldannie]

Cacti (feysand bachelor AU) part 2

Masterlist

Butterflies fluttered wildly in my stomach as I met his gorgeous violet eyes, which nearly sparkled in the warm light from the overhead lights, strung artfully back and forth.

Rhys simply smiled deeply, ducking his head slightly. “Well, tell me a little bit about yourself, Feyre.” He prodded kindly. It may have been my imagination, but I thought I saw his cheeks tint ever so slightly pink.

I couldn’t hide the flush of my cheeks, even as I internally panicked to think of something. “Uhh..” My eyes roved calmly around us, settling on a small, potted cactus. “I like cactuses?” I offered with an apologetic smile, my eyebrows drawing together. Stupid, stupid, stupid. What kind of answer is I like cactuses?

A new sort of smile spread across his lips, brightening his eyes. A small strand of inky hair fell out of place, and I felt as if I had been punched, the air whooshing silently from my lungs.

Cauldron, I’m pathetic. There is absolutely no way he’ll give me a rose. And hell, who could blame him? What kind of answer is ‘I like cactuses’? Glancing up, I saw the producer waving me forward with a disappointed look, even as my eyes burned. I couldn’t meet the gaze of the man before me as I slipped silently past him and click-click-clicked up the path and into the house, where twenty-four other women were already waiting for me. I could feel those eyes burning a hole between my shoulder blades, and it took nearly everything in me to resist turning back to him. But I didn’t, knowing it would be easier for me in the long run if I were to avoid getting attached. Because who the hell did I think I was, to stand a chance against these super modelesque women, all of whom could easily outshine me on their worst days.

Inside, a warm breeze greeted me, which was quite the opposite from the icy stares of the other women as I took a tentative seat on an overstuffed chair. I fought the urge to tell them that I would most definitely be sent home that night, and that I was of no competition. But I didn’t, some small that sounded all too similar to Elain’s, telling me to buck up and hold my head up high.

The next half hour passed in much the same fashion as those first few minutes, with frigid glares and thinly veiled insults being flug across the room at each other, until a thin woman in a black collared shirt and trousers slipped into the room, and directed us all to proceed to the foyer for the first rose ceremony. 

Belatedly, I wondered if it would be worth it to attempt making some friends, or if I should simply stand back (should I miraculously avoid being sent home tonight), and watch the catfights begin. Women were caddy, this I knew. But despite the silent glares and insults I had watched being thrown across the room for over half an hour, I now saw something akin to kindness in how some girls were silently adjusting the hair and gowns of the others.

I made a mental note to seek them out and try to become their friends, then drew my thoughts back to the task at hand. Mentally, I prepared myself for rejection as we were arranged like china dolls for the camera. Ever the darlings of Prythian. Mentally, I rehearsed my reaction to being rejected. Nothing new there. I was always someone’s second choice, someone’s afterthought.

Mentally, I calmed myself. Planned out my days of moping about on my couch until my vacation days ran out. I’d call Isaac, cuss him out, then eat pizza. Eat so much cookie dough ice cream that I’d have a brain freeze until mid-summer.  Yeah, totally not pathetic.

I blinked, then nearly swore when I realized that I was one of only three girls left, with one rose remaining. How long had I been zoned out for? I met Rhys’s eyes, trying, trying, trying to mask my panic and held his gaze, trying to find some flaw within him to convince myself I’d dodged a bullet. Anything to make this hurt just a little bit less.

“Feyre,” He murmured, clutching a rose. Shock flooded through me. Confused and numb, I half-stumbled, half-tumbled over to him, never breaking his gaze. I held his gaze, praying that this wasn’t some wicked prank. 

Behind me, I heard the disappointed grumbles of the two women who hadn’t been chosen, but the only thing I could focus on was him, those violet eyes. “Will you accept this rose?” A hint of a smile tugged at his lips, and I couldn’t hide the eagerness behind my nod.

His smile turned near-giddy, never looking away from me. Something hidden sparked in his eyes.

I slowly turned to follow the other twenty-two women up to our rooms, fingers stroking the silky petals of my rose and coming dangerously close to slicing them on the razor-sharp thorns, but Rhys gently caught my wrist. He leaned in carefully, pressed a gentle kiss to my cheekbone, then murmured, “Meet me in the gardens at midnight.”

Stunned, I could only muster myself together enough to meet his gaze just long enough to acknowledge that I’d heard him, before turning and almost skipping after the others, beyond thankful that I was the last girl in line, and wouldn’t have to deal with any jealousy.

At ten minutes to midnight, I was in my room, my palms smoothing over my jeans, trying to get rid of any wrinkles, then moving to my hoodie. I had debated wearing something more daring, but decided against it, and opted for comfort over style. Pulling on my formerly white vans, I slipped silently from my room, and began to make my way down the marble halls and opulent staircases, out to the garden where I had seen him for the first time only a few hours prior.

A dark shadow was meandering back and forth by the fountain, head leaned back up to gaze at the stars. The overhead lights were still on, only set to a much dimmer setting.

As I approached, I allowed my footsteps to become louder, and alert him to my presence. The lights cast his tan skin in a gorgeous, golden glow that had my fingers itching for a pencil. Rhys turned, and when his eyes met mine, he positively grinned, and held out a hand to me.

I took it, both completely taken aback and not at all surprised by the callousness of his palms, and allowed him to lead me over to a padded settee.

“So,” He murmured, crossing an ankle over his knee. 

“So…” I hummed, hating how hot my face felt.

Rhys cracked a small smile, and chuckled a slight bit. “I felt horrible that we didn’t really get a chance to talk earlier, and as much as I loved learning how much you care about cacti, I want to know more about you.”

A warm, yet slightly nervous feeling strung through me, turning my muscles to spaghetti and my joints to springs. My knee began bouncing wildly up and down, causing Rhys’s smile to widen a small bit, as his eyes sparked in positively wicked delight..

A moment of silence passed, before I was finally able to speak. “I love to read.” I murmured, not entirely meeting his eyes. “I… I didn’t learn until I was twelve, because of a lot of different reasons, but I love it.”

That wicked smile became genuine, his eyes softening. “Really? Who is your favorite author?” He murmured quietly, then added, “At the moment.”

Instantly I felt myself relax with the neutral turn our conversation was taking. “I love The Falconer series by-”

“Elizabeth May?!” He finished, stunned and jaw agape. “You’ve read that? I’ve only ever known one other person who has.”

I couldn’t hide my surprised shock. “Really?! I haven’t ever even met someone who knows it. It’s so good. Which book is your favorite? I’m rather fond of the first one myself, especially with that ending..”

“The first one? Really?” Rhys chidded teasingly, while giving my hand a sweet pat. “Come, now Feyre. The second one is clearly superior.”

I chuckled, swiping a strand of hair out of my face, shaking my head. Folding my legs under myself, I braced my elbows on my knees. “Whatever you need to tell yourself to sleep at night.” I teased, shoving gently at his shoulder. “And if you don’t mind, can I ask who you know that’s read The Falconer?”

That smile saddened a bit. “It was my sister, Violet. She absolutely loved that series, and said her favorite character was Kieran, because he and I look alike.” He paused for a moment. “She died three years ago.”

Guilt overwhelmed me almost immediately. “Oh, gods I’m so sorry, I shouldn-”

“No, no. It’s okay, really.” He assured me, gently leaning forward to take my hand.

My heart jumped at the contact, turning my blood electric.

Shit, being eliminated was going to hurt like a bitch.

Comment, reblog, or send me an ask if you want to be added to my general tags list! There should be regular updates to all fics soon.

tag list: @sailorsassley @whiskeybusiness1776 @mad-scientist-pyromaniac @la7sorcellerie @dayanna-hatter@mis-lil-red@aelinfeyreisa @bamchickawowow @togswiftie @teresa-1121@hizqueen4life @aelinchocolatelover @smexyminion@rowaelin-cressworth @illyrianbeauty @angelofmusic81 @rosesandglass@blackjacks-donuts @highlordrhysie @ame223 @sleeping-and-books @seducemewithyourbookcolection @high-lady-rhys @clumsybookworm18  @westofmoon @giorgia-the-trashpanda @burritowithfeels @happily-emma-after @awkward-avocado-s@fanfic-masterpost-site @tonypetersteve @msalazar3 @bookish-beans​ @terrasen-assassin​ @tntwme​ @lovemollywho​ @b00kworm​ @girlofmanyfandoms148​

[mentallyinwalmart]

"It’s 1AM and I’m studying for finals and you’re my roommate’s friend who just crawled through my window." Cressworth

HI LET ME PREFACE THIS WITH: THIS IS THE GREATEST ASK I COULDVE I M A G I N E D

I owe you my life for giving me the opportunity to write something so fun, anon ❤️😍💓🤪🥰💛

Okay, here we go…

—

‘What are the differences between ethos, pathos, and logos’

I read the flash card again, hoping this time it triggers some memory. But it doesn’t. I look at the clock on Ileana’s desk and curse.

One fifteen am. One fifteen am and Ileana still isn’t back from Daci’s.

As if on queu, my phone buzzes on my desk. I cross the room and read the message from my roomate, explaining that she will not be returning this evening. I sigh, dropping my phone back on the desk.

I love Daci, and I love illy even more. But tonight I could’ve used someone to help me with studying for this damned English final.

I could cut a man up and stitch his corpse back together in my sleep, but apparently I can’t pass a fucking Literature 201 class.

Rustling outside my window calls my attention, but I don’t bother crossing the room. Ileana and I live on the first floor, and it’s common for us to hear the skittering of small animals on these warm spring nights when we leave the windows open.

I turn back to the notecards abaondoned on my desk, scooping them back. I flip the one that had me stumped to the back of the pile and pull up the next card.

‘What are the principle stages of the hero’s journey?’

I throw the card on the floor with a loud curse,

“God damnit!”

I collapse into my desk chair, leaning back as I bury my face in my hands. This is my fault, I got myself into this situation by half assing my final essay and making it so that, unless I get an A on this final, I’ll get a B in the class. And there goes grad school.

I groan.

But suddenly, my problems seem a lot less pressing as I hear a scratching at the window above Ileana’s bed. Someone is visible, sillouhetted in moonlight, trying to Jimmy the screen off the frame.

Someone was trying to break in.

My heart races as I scramble for something, anything, that might be used as a weapon. I grab my forensic textbook off of the desk and hold it up, edging towards the window.

The screen is off, and someone is half through the window.

“One more move and I’ll call the police.”

I flip on the switch that lights Ileana’s half of our room.

The unidentifiable figure gasps and momentarily loses grip on the frame, falling straight into Ileana’s bed below the sill. I cross the room in an instant, book raised and ready to strike, but then I catch sight of who is lying in my roomates bed.

“Thomas?!” I demand, staring down at my roomate’s girlfriend’s brother who is sprawled across Ileana’s bed. Book still held high, I brave another question. “What the HELL are you doing coming through the window?”

“I can explain!” He sits up, but flinches as I adjust my grip on the book, “please put down the book?”

He looks me up and down, taking in my pajama shorts and thin t shirt. I give him a whithering look before lowering the book, but still hold on to it tightly in case he makes any quick moves.

“You had better start talking Cresswell.”

“Right! Sorry!” He says, returning his eyes to my face, “well I’m not allowed in the girls halls after nine, and it’s well after nine.” He gestures to the clock. “Ileana was supposed to be in tonight, I was just going to slip in, then go up to the fourth floor to Daci’s room to help her study.”

He speaks so mater-of-factly, as if this is simple and I am a fool for not putting it together myself. I realize this is clearly not the first time and my jaw drops.

“You-You’ve done this before?!” I sputter, dropping the book in my shock.

“I— well, yes.” He says, sheepishly looking at the floor.

I smack my forehead with my palm and turn away from him.

“But only when you weren’t home!” He says, “I really didn’t know you’d be here, I thought the light on was Ileana.”

I laugh, wether from fatigue or the fact that the events of the last five minutes are truly unbeliebavle I’m not sure.

“Really, Audrey Rose, I’m so sorry.” He stumbles over his words, righting himself on the mattress before running a hand through his touseled hair. “I’ll just, I’ll just be going.” He gets up and moves towards my door, but I put a hand on his chest, stopping him in his tracks.

“I really wouldn’t” I say, and he raises an eyebrow, “Ileana is spending the night at your sisters, so I’m assuming they aren’t going to want to be interrupted by anyone. Least of all you.”

“Ah Jeez.” He says, scratching the nape of his neck. “I’m sorry, I should’ve texted her.” I raise my brows, shooting him a look, “right! I shouldn’t have come in your window at all.”

But I can’t help but laugh once more. If this is any omen of what my day will be like tomorrow, I do not have high hopes for my exam.

“It’s fine, Thomas.” I say, shaking my head. “The adrenaline rush will keep me up way better than the coffee I was drinking so maybe I owe you a thank you.”

For the first time, he surveys my side of the room, taking in my desk covered in open books, highlighters, and pens, flash cards scattered across the floor like confetti.

“Big test?” He raises an eyebrow and I fight the urge to kick him out on the spot. But I swallow my annoyance and meet his gaze.

“Yea. Literature Analysis 201 with Domhoff. Damn class is going to ruin my 4.0”

His next words shock me and I can’t help but widen my eyes as he speaks,

“Want some help studying?”

I pause, contemplating. True enough, I had just wished that I had someone to study with, but it wasn’t my roomates girlfriends brother I had had in mind. But then again, beggars can’t be choosers.

“Alright.” I say, shrugging as I stoop to pick up the cards.

When I stand back up, he’s rolled Ileana’s chair over to my desk, and is pouring over my marked up study guide.

“Wow.” He says, “For someone who sets the curve in forensics, you are really bad at English.”

I smack him on the arm and he raises his hands in surrender. But a question plays at my mind.

“You’re in my forensics lecture?”

He look— almost hurt. But quickly covers his expression with a grin.

“Have been since last quarter. Thanks for noticing.”

I feel a flush cover my cheeks.

“Sorry.” I mumble as I thumb through the cards, but to my surprise, he laughs.

“Don’t worry about it. It’s a 200 person lecture and we sit on opposite ends of the hall. I only noticed you because I saw your schedule on the mirror one day” he points to my mirror by the door and I scowl. “Right” He says “sorry, I’ll stop reminding you how often I’ve snuck through your room.”

For the sake of my GPA, I do not let myself get bogged down with the question of how often he was in my room without my knowledge. Instead, I offer him the stack of flash cards.

He quizzes me, taking out the cards I got correctly, and then making me write out the definitions of the cards I didn’t get correct. Then he tests me again and we repeat this system until I have gotten them all.

“But how am I supposed to remember all this tomorrow? It’s in my short term memory now, but what about in five hours when I have my exam?”

He glances at the clock and I can see surprise cross his face as he realizes it’s three am.

“Christ Audrey Rose, you should sleep, especially if your test is at eight.”

I open my mouth to protest but he shakes his head.

“How about this,” he offers, “to pay you back for nearly startling you to death, I’ll meet you in the dining hall at six thirty and we can review for an hour before you have to walk to class.”

I weigh my options, but decide that as annoying, and mildly invasive he was, he had offered good advice for remembering things.

I nod, and extend a hand. He takes it and we shake.

“See you bright and early then Thomas.” I say with a grin.

He returns my grin with one of his own.

“Guess some good can come from home invasion!”

I scowl at him,

“Don’t even think you’re off the hook for that.” I say, but he still grins, standing up and bowing ridiculously in my direction.

“I wouldn’t dream of it.” He says, moving towards the window, “but you can dream of me.”

“Why you little—”

But before I can get my insult out, he’s hopped out the window and vanished from view.

I sigh as I reattach the screen before crawling into my own bed. Despite my objection, he somehow managed to get into my head, because I do dream of him.

—

again, thank you SOOO much for the ask. I loved this prompt so much :) I actually have another Cressworth College AU coming out soon, so keep your eyes peeled for that 

xx

tag list: @city-of-fae @beasnotebook @schmlip-scribble @lizziehatter @shaewony @nish247 @queenofdorkville 

let me know if you’d like to be tagged in future fics!!

[mentallyinwalmart]

A Fun Cressworth College AU

“walking between my SO and you and I accidentally grabbed the wrong damn hand” A modern Cressworth AU inspired by a prompt from the incredible @guarneretoye 

You know how sometimes you’ll be walking with a group of two other people? and then when a group walking in the other direction passes by you, everyone’s position gets all jumbled up? Well, that’s exactly how I got into this mess.

Will, Thomas, and I all have class in the forensics lab at one in the afternoon. While Will has Criminology, Thomas and I are in the same Forensics 201 lab/lecture. The three of us walking together was never formally arranged, but Will and Thomas live in the same hall, and that first day of lecture, Thomas held the door open for us, Will thanked him, the two of them struck up a conversation, and now it’s a daily thing. 

Would Will be as friendly and chatty if he knew about all the flirtatious comments Thomas made when he wasn’t around? Would he be as willing to “bro-out” with Thomas on our little walks if he knew that on more than one occasion I have vented about him to Thomas when we were in a fight? That Thomas frequented my dorm with a cup of earl grey and a new pad sticky notes when he noticed that I was running low?

I sincerely doubt it.

But I don’t mention it, because despite what I tell Thomas every time I accuse him of stalking us when he joins us on our walks, I enjoy his company. Or at least, I always did until today.

We were passing a rather large group of social science students, debating about some philosophy or another. The group split down the middle and half went on the left side of us, the other to our right. I bumped many shoulders and muttered many “sorrys” before I finally made my way through. 

“What a mess” Will’s voice came from my left side.

“I know right, hate people with friends.” Liza’s voice came from my right and she appeared at my side, a grin on her face, her curls a mess from the wind. 

“Didn’t your lecture start half an hour ago?” I asked, threading my hand through Wills at my left side as I grin at my cousin. While normally his hands feel calloused and cool, almost clammy, today they feel softer, and sort of warm. I ran a finger over his knuckles, attention still mostly fixed on Liza.

“Being late is in fashion.” Liza had said, waving a hand at me before she darted away from our group, heading up a path towards the design studio. “Catch ya later!” 

I grinned as I watched her go before turning my attention back to Will and Thomas. 

“Will--” I began, but I couldn’t even finish my sentence. I ran my eyes over Thomas at my side, and Will on his other side. I realized in horror that I was holding the hand of the wrong man. 

I of course dropped Thomas’ hand instantly, shooting him a death glare, but he only shot back a lewd grin. My cheeks felt so hot I was worried Will would feel the heat and deduce what had happened. 

But blessedly, he didn’t, and simply bid us goodbye before bounding up the steps to the second floor of the building, while Thomas and I went into the other stairwell to go to the basement. 

The moment we were alone I smacked him in the ribs. 

“How dare you, Cresswell!”

But that bastard just grinned at me, and had the gall to say, 

“I’ll remind you Wadsworth, you took my hand, I was just being polite.” Another wicked grin plays at his lips, “Though I thought perhaps you were finally returning my affections.”

I shook my head and left him in the stairwell as I moved into the classroom. I was still fuming when he came in, but despite my glares he still took up his normal seat at my side. He even had the nerve to ask if I was scared, and offer his hand to me when the professor showed a particularly nasty video of a botched incision. 

But despite how angry I was-- am, I must admit, his hands were not miserable to hold.

[mentallyinwalmart]

Heyo! Let me know if you’d like to start being tagged in my cressworth fics :)

I’m also in the process of making a master list too :)

Xx

Bea

[mentallyinwalmart]

I’m going to sleep but I wanna create tomorrow so I swear to the old gods and new y’all had BETTER send some suggestions my way

(At this time I will be requesting primarily Podsa prompts however I am open to Braime because they own my soul, and honestly any other ship I’ve expressed any intrest in in the past cuz let’s face it diversity is key)

Ily all, xx

Bea

[shyvioletcat]

Can you maybe do something like rowan looks at Aelin with a smirk on his face and she says "don´t you dare" and then he throws her over his shoulder and maybe carry her to her/his bed or the couch?

OK... I posted the fic on the wrong prompt *facepalm* just if everyone was wondering where that notification went. I saved that prompt though, because it was a good one. Anyway... lets try this again.

SO... I stole this prompt for my Striking Matches AU because this is a very firefighter-y thing to do in my opinion.

~~~~~

“I know I’ve said it a million times, but I’ll say it again,” Aelin panted, gripping the handrail tightly. “I hate these stairs.”

Rowan laughed from where we walked a few steps in front of her.

“How does a building in this day and age not have an elevator,” Aelin complained some more.

“It’s an old building I guess,” Rowan said over his shoulder.

“Well I hate it,” Aelin declared. “And I hate that you’re barely out of breath.”

“The stamina is all part of the job,” Rowan explained. “I thought we were well acquainted with the extent of my stamina by now. You should know that stairs are absolutely nothing to me.”

Aelin’s cheeks heated, and it had nothing to do with exertion. “Don’t tease, I don’t have the energy to fight back.” She paused on the landing to catch her breath. “Gods, we’re only on the fourth floor. I think you’re going to have to carry me.”

Aelin looked at her boyfriend, he was smirking at her – mischief shining in her eyes. 

“Rowan, no,” Aelin said, backing up a step. “No. Don’t you dare.”

Rowan didn’t listen, he only smirked wider and one moment Aelin was standing and the next she was being thrown over Rowan’s shoulder.

“Rowan,” she hissed. “Put me down right now.”

“No,” he replied simply. “I’m tired of your whining. This way we both win.”

“How?” Aelin asked, bracing herself so her head stopped dangling.

By this time was already halfway up the next flight of stairs. “We’ll be faster this way and I don’t have to listen to you complaining. You also get a perfect and interrupted view of my ass for a while.”

Aelin couldn’t complain about that. But his shoulder digging into her stomach, that she could complain about.

“I don’t think I’m winning right now,” Aelin grumbled as she tried to get a better position. Rowan sensed her discomfort and shifted her a little and she was suddenly much comfier on his broad shoulder. 

“Isn’t this one of your fantasies? Being carried by a fireman up to your room? I’m still in my uniform and everything.”

Aelin could hear the smile in his voice. She was silent on the matter, not wanting to admit to anything. The sound of Rowan’s rumbling chuckle was evidence that she had been very well and truly found out. 

“Can you at least make sure my ass is not hanging out?” 

“Oh, it’s not. But I would say I am most definitely still winning on that account.” Rowan finished his sentence with a firm slap to Aelin’s backside that had her gasping out his name in surprise. That sound had barely finished ringing when Rowan said. “Hello Glennis, how are you this evening.”

Aelin pressed her palms against Rowan’s lower back, praying that he was just playing around. That Rowan was not in fact talking to the very kind old lady from the level below.

“I’m very well, thank you Rowan,” Glennis replied. “What might the two of you be up to?”

Rowan let out a dramatic and resigned sigh. “This one,” he gave Aelin a jostle, “was complaining about the stairs so I thought I’d give her a hand.” 

Glennis laughed, then projected her voice a little. “Well dearie, if I can make it up the stairs, so can you.”

Aelin glanced up to see Rowan shake his head. “That’s what I’ve been telling her.”

Aelin scowled as Glennis laughed again and how Rowan was no doubt smiling. 

“I’ll let  you get back to it,” Glennis said and Aelin heard her door open and close.

Once she knew they were alone Aelin reached down and pinched Rowan on the butt, then further displayed her displeasure by jabbing him in the ribs for good measure.

“You’re going to pay for that,” Aelin said.

“I’m very much looking forward to it,” Rowan said, utterly sure of himself and the outcome of this little escapade.

They finally reached their apartment, luckily not running into any more of their neighbours. So easily, Rowan pulled out his keys from his pocket and unlocked the door. Aelin expected him to put her down once they got in the doorway, but he didn’t. He carried her all the way to the bedroom and then flipped her onto the bed, the breath leaving her body with an oof. There was no time wasted and next thing she knew Rowan was crawling over her, his lips on her neck, her jaw, her lips.

He pulled back, and he was smiling when he said, “See, I didn’t break a sweat. Now we both have energy to spare.”

“Oh? For what exactly?” Aelin said, smiling coyly up at him.

Rowan’s own smile was wicked and was answer enough, but still he gave her a slow lingering kiss that mapped out exactly what he had planned. It had Aelin thanking the gods for firefighters and their stamina. 

~~~~~

That last line is awful but we can’t win them all. Hope you enjoyed this little instalment of Firefighter Friday.

Tags: 

@tangledraysofsunshine // @nalgenewhore // @highqueenofelfhame // @galyxsy // @fucking-winchester-trash // @literary-licorice // @http-itsrebecca // @highladyofthesith // @aelinfire-bringer // @soup-that-is-too-hawt // @sleep-and-books // @3am-reading // @but-she-was-aelin-galathynius // @rowaelinforeverworld // @alifletcher2012 // @westofmoon // @tswaney17 // @mydarlingfireheart // @rowansfirebringer // @chocolate-eating-bitch-queen // @vanilla28 // @fireheart-of-your-dreams // @enquires-state-building // @im-not-rare-im-rarr // @your-high-lady // @mariamuses // @ttakeitbacknoww // @vi0let-femmes // @kindofawalkingpoem // @sleeping-and-books // @armixers-unite // @velarian-trash // @queenofxhearts // @princess-galathynius // @heroesofterrasen // @highladyofstoriesandmusic // @unassumingsodalovesherbooks // @empire-of-wildfire // @brittneym15 // @camerooonchiu // @worldoffae // @mybbyfeyre // @crackedship // @lowhangingtreebranches // @over300books // @yourwhisperingshadows // @thesirenwashere // @pilesofriles // @chemicha // @keshavomit // @sarahbringsoutmygay13 // @wifeofchrishemsworth // @impossiblescissorspeachpaper // @cat5313 // @judelovescardan // @illyrian-velaris // @flowerspringsea // @whitethorn15 // @whiskeybusiness1776 // @notaddictedtoanything // @thereaderandfangirl // @mynewdreamwasyou // @tintinnabulary // @the-regal-warrior // @searchingforbellarke // @queen-of-wings-and-fire // @court-of-fuck-me-daddy // @officialasianbitch // @burningbookz // @viajandosinalas // @chaoticskyy // @fanfictrash3000 // @blueeyes425 // @starseternalnighttriumphant // @bamchickawowow // @thehuntressofmoon // @giorgia-the-trashpanda // @flora-and-fae // @thereaderandfangirl // @illyrian-bookworm // @meltalgel-ig // @gay-book-nerd // @that-odd-puzzle-piece // @i-love-all-books // @in-love-with-caramel-macchiato // @girl-who-reads-the-books // @hizqueen4life // @the-third-me // @queen-of-glass // @belamoonbeam // @bestmelle // @cursebreaker29 // @b00kworm // @superspiritfestival // @aesthetics-11 // @maastrash // @mynewdreamwasyou // @the-last-apprentice // @charincharge // @aelin-queen-of-terrasen // @scarznstars // @absolute-dissapointment // @thesurielships // @df3ndyr // @trinitybailey2003 // @littleboxofthunder // @ladywitchling // @booknerdproblems // @rowaelin-cressworth // @sevenfreckles-for-sevenloves // @rolltide7 // @scandinavianromantic // @tillyrubes10 // @starwarsslytherin // @minaidss // @paytin77 // @jesstargaryenqueen // @anntheintrovert // @starborn-faerie-queen // @loudphantomdragon // @alyx801 // @amandaswallowtail // @louiseleblancdiggory // @abookishfreak // @woollycat22 // @claralady // @perseusannabeth // @fangirlprincess09 // @maddymelv // @sierrareads // @empress-ofbloodshed //

[highqueenofelfhame]

WRITE A THON 2.0

hello my loves!

in celebration for winning the Rhysand Award for Fandom Fanfiction Writer - i am doing another WAT.

over the course of the next few days i’ll be reblogging copious amounts of prompts and it’s up to you to send me a prompt with a ship. send however many you want! there is no limit. as i have 650+ prompts in my inbox i will obviously not be getting to all of them (literally ever), but i like to have a constant flow of new inspiration. i may answer some prompts before the day of.

if you weren’t around for my first, basically i write as much as i can for an allotted amount of time. i do try to keep my usual quality, but the answered prompts will vary in length depending on if it may be something i’m interested in continuing.

you can request prompts for existing stories and AUs! if you want to submit a prompt for Genevieve and Julian from my best habit, please do! a prompt set in the IIHASTS universe? you got it. prompt that happens in the toxic au? YES PLEASE! you have the freedom to choose from any of my stories or past AUs. you can also request fics based on songs, movies, or any other prompts you have seen before/thought of. it doesn’t have to be off a list, the lists i post are just to help give you guys more ideas.

i will write for any tog and acotar ship, jurdan, cressworth, and alarkling, and wessa, as well as my originals if you want to request a prompt for original work! these are kinda all i feel comfy writing at the moment.

STORIES/AUs YOU CAN REQUEST FOR:

CARRY YOU

IIHASTS

MY BEST HABIT

HEAVY IN YOUR ARMS

CRASHING

UNTOUCHABLE

YELLOW

TOXIC AU (rowaelin)

THAT COUPLE AU (rowaelin)

WHITE COLLAR AU (rowaelin)

BREAK IN AU (rowaelin)

MOB BOSS AU (rowaelin)

NOTEBOOK AU (rowaelin)

MODERN ROYALTY AU (rowaelin)

TEACHER AU (rowaelin)

TEEN PREGNANCY AU (rowaelin)

FAKE DATING AU (rowaelin)

EXES AU (rowaelin)

CICRUS AU (tog x acotar)

ROCK BAND AU (rowaelin)

SUMMER CAMP AU (rowaelin)

COLLEGE AU (rowaelin)

BEACH AU (rowaelin)

prompts have the potential to become their own AUs as well so keep that in mind. i know i write a LOT of rowaelin but that’s partially because it’s been my most requested as of late, and i also just love them more than i love myself.

WAT2.0 WILL BE ON TUESDAY, JUNE 4th.

i’m not 100% sure on hours yet, i’m thinking something like 12pm-10pm cst USA time, but that’s subject to change. i will let you know the night before/day of for more specific time constraints. this WAT will be a minimum of 10 hours but has the potential to run longer. i’ll honestly probably end up going for longer as i am awake well into early morning.

reblog this to spread the word! send in prompts! i’m so excited to do this again and i can’t wait to get started.

i love you, thank you for voting for me, and thank you for almost 2k (we’re like 20 away from the time i’m writing this! how cool!!)

WHEN YOU SEND IN A PROMPT YOU MUST INCLUDE THE FULL PROMPT.

please don’t just send me a number, i won’t know what you’re talking about/which list it is you’re referring to!

[highqueenofelfhame]

I'm doing a re-read, of the toxic au,and honestly it is soooo good💓💓💓. I love it so much! I gotta admit,it's one of my fav angsty fics. Do you have any other angst to recommend while waiting for the new part💫💫? It doesn't have to be rowaelin,might be feysand or cressworth,nessian and elriel ( I DO NOT tolerate Elain and Lucien as a couple 🤮)

@throne-of-ashes-and-beauty​ it’s not a ton of angst but theres some angst in Light Up the Ice which is my fav fic ever. but also anything she or @tacmc​ write!! Lovely is SO FUCKING GOOD you’ll eat that shit up. Also they have the best nessian angst. 

@starseternalnighttriumphant​ the president’s daughter is everything to me, and so is Bad Intentions. I love them so much. 

umMmmmmmmMmMmM i know there are others i read a lot i just can’t think of fuckin’ anything sO  COMMENT YOUR FAV ANGST PIECES BELOW

[mentallyinwalmart]

‘Locked Out’ pt.2

Some Cressworth NSFW, a follow up to my last fic, ‘locked out’ which is a modern au

“I’m alright with as much, or as little as you want.” He says, running his thumb over my knuckles. The pads of his fingers are blessedly soft and a shiver runs through me as he touches me.

“In that case,” I say, leaning back in, “You ought to just kiss me Cresswell.”

The words have barely left my lips before he has his arms around me and pulls me in to a kiss. It starts off hesitant, both of us exploring each other’s mouths hesitantly. Soon, we have a steady rhythm and I part my lips, allowing him to slip his tongue into my mouth. But quickly, even that is not enough, and my body craves more.

I slide off the couch, not breaking our kiss and slowly crawl into the chair with him, wrapping my legs around his waist as I settle onto his lap. He moves his hands from my hands up and into my damp hair, twisting my curls in his fingers. He bites my lip as I fumble with the hem of his shirt and I moan. Spurred on by my outburst, he begins to drop kisses on my jaw, then down to my neck. When he gets to the hollow between my clavicle and my neck he drops a deeper kiss, his lips sucking as he runs his tongue over my skin. I moan again, the heat in my core increasing.

I can no longer restrain myself, and pull at his shirt, demanding it be removed. He obliges me, and pulls away from that sensitive area to pull it over his head and toss it to the side. I run my hands over his abdomen, letting my fingers trace the strong lines of his muscles. As I explore his chest, he lets his hands settle on my backside, cupping my ass with his large hands. I feel myself growing wetter in my shorts.

Now it is my turn to spread my kisses. I run a finger tip over his perfect jawline, following it up quickly with a barrage of pecks, my lips fluttering across his skin. A feeling of accomplishment settles over me as his grip on my ass tightens and I feel him growing hard beneath me.

“Audrey--” He moans slightly as I kiss down his neck, taking my time on each and every place my lips come to rest, hands fumbling with the ties of his pajama pants.

I slip out of his grip, him moaning slightly in protest as I drop to my knees before the chair, pawing at his pants, stroking his cock through the fabric. He groans and slips his pants over his waist, his member springing free and to full it’s height before me. I shiver slightly as he kicks off his pants. He is much larger than Will. But my nerves are largely outweighed by excitement as I run my fingers across the shaft, watching his writhe at my very touch. I gently lean forward and plant a kiss right on the head, enjoying the shudder that wrakes through his body.

“Don’t tease me, Audrey Rose.” He says through gritted teeth.

I look up at him, batting my eyelashes as I continue to gently trace strokes across his cock.

“Whatever do you mean?” I ask innocently, cocking my head to one side.

“Audrey Rose,” He says again, the need in his voice causing what feels like a tidal wave of arousal between my thighs.

I offer him a wicked grin before going down on him in earnest, taking nearly all of him in my mouth, and pushing it in further until my nose bumps the toned muscle just above his member. I was blessed with the lack of a gag reflex, and it has proved very popular in the past. I flick my eyes up to Thomas’ face above me, and from the way his eyes are rolled back in his head and his fists are clenched, it would appear he shares that opinion.

I continue my strokes, licking down to the tip, swirling my tongue across the head, then once again taking all of him back into my mouth. His breathing becomes laboured and his hands becomes tangled in my hair, guiding my strokes. Just as I feel the first drip of him, I pull away completely, sitting back on the floor as I look up at him.

“Audrey Rose,” he growls, “why must you continue to tease.”

I raise my eyebrows,

“I like having you under my thumb.” I say, examining my nails and looking away from his earnest expression.

But to my surprise, he catches my chin between his thumb and index finger.

“Has anyone ever told you you are a naughty, naughty girl Audrey Rose?”

If it was possible, I feel the heat in my core intensify. Will never got my hints. I push all thoughts of him from my mind, meeting Thomas’ gaze.

“What are you going to do about it?” I ask, a wicked grin playing at my lips as I meet the fire in his eyes with some of my own.

“Well,” he says, leaning closer so once again our faces are just inches apart, “if you aren’t inclined to finish what you started, I might have to punish you.”

A shive wracks my entire body, and I look at Thomas Cresswell now, with more longing, more desperate need than I ever had for Will in the two years we were together. I cock an eyebrow, heat pooling in my center as I rest my chin on his bare knee.

“I wouldn’t be opposed.” I say, blowing a breath of cool air directly towards him, watching his cock twitch with glee. He groans and I grin lazily. “Give me your best shot.”

And suddenly, he is standing, pulling me to my feet before he lifts me as if I weigh nothing and tosses me over his muscled shoulder. I shriek as he does so, kicking my legs slightly as he adjusts his grip on the back of my knees.

“Do you want to wake Mrs Harvey with all this racket?” He asks, swatting my backside with his hand.

The impact triggers a noise that comes out as a sort of half moan, half squeal. I gasp as he smacks me again, running my nails across his back, this time exclusively moaning in response to his action.

“Thomas.” I groan as he leans forward and gently deposits me before him on the bed, before taking a seat at my side.

“Did you enjoy that?” He asked, eyebrows raised incredulously.

I nod, cheeks flushing with heat as I run my hand over his bare leg.

“God that’s hot.” He mutters, “Can I-- can I do it some more?”

I grin at him as we both drop the facades we were putting up and nod.

“If you ever want me to stop, just tell me.” He says, gently running a finger along my thigh, sending a shiver up my back.

I feel like I could melt on the spot. True enough, I hadn’t been on a hookup in ages, but in my memory they were usually a lot less… respectful. I grinned at Thomas as I sat up on the bed, getting on all fours and crawling over his lap, laying myself across his knees, his cock pressed tauntingly close to my entrance.

I tremble in anticipation as he pushes my shirt up my back, revealing my silk shorts. He runs a hand across the waistband before pushing them down to my ankles. Cool air hits my backside, and I groan slightly as he traces lazy circles across my exposed ass.

The smack of his hand on my rear causes me to gasp, my lips forming an ‘o’ as he kneads the skin he had just struck between his palm and fingers. He strikes me a few more times, taking the same time to rub my tender skin after the fact. If it is even possible, I think his cock grows harder beneath me.

I slowly lift a hand to his knees, working it under myself until I am able to gently stroke his cock while he continues to rain down blows to my backside. Though it hurts, it is a pleasurable kind of pain, and the sound of hand on flesh, paired with his groans as I tease his cock are enough to undo me on the spot. I lower my hand away from his cock and to my own soaking entrance. But just as I am about to guide myself to release, he takes ahold of my wrist.

“Not yet.” He says, giving my butt one final smack before pulling me to my feet so I am standing before him, the long tee still on.

I move to pull the shirt off, but once again he takes ahold of my hands, gentler this time.

“Let me.” He says, releasing my hands to take hold of the hem of my-- his shirt.

Teasingly slow, he pulls it up and over my head, taking in my body with his piercing eyes. His gaze lingers on my nipples, reaching out to palm one of my breasts before continuing his inspection. I lean into his grip, sitting down on his leg and grinding my sex against his kneecap. He moans as, for the first time, he feels how wet I am.

His lips crash back into mine, and I run my fingers through his glorious hair as he stands to meet me, tucking me in close to him. He guides us across the room together, towards the desk. I wonder what this might be-- But before I can venture a guess as to what the desk had to do with our foreplay, he reached into the desk drawer and produced a condom. He opens it, pulling away from me as he readies himself to put it on, but I take it from his hands.

“Let me.” I say, taking the condom from his hands and gently placing it onto the tip of his cock before slipping my lips back over him and pushing it all the way to the base of his shaft.

He shudders,

“Now that’s what I call a party trick.” He groans as I get back to my feet. I can’t help but laugh, and for a moment the two of us just stay like that, laughing in eachothers arms.

But the heat within me will not be so easily extinguished, and I pull him back into me, kissing him deeply as I wrap my arms around his neck. His kiss is just as wanting, and he pushes me against the wall beside the desk, his hardness pressing into my abdomen as he leans in closer and closer to me.  I moan and wrap my legs around his waist, kissing him intensely as he moves his hands under my rear to keep me in my precarious position.

“Are you ready?” He asks huskily, “Remember you can still say no.” Despite the want in his voice, the look in his eyes makes it clear he is serious.

But I nod, lowering one hand from around his neck to take ahold of his cock and align it with my entrance.

“I want this.” I breathe, returning my hand to his face, tracing the outline of his jaw, and up his cheekbones.

That is all he needs, and in a moment he is pressing himself deep into me, seeming to complete me as he fills me. I moan loudly as he slides out only to pound back into me, harder and faster than before.

“Oh god, Thomas, that’s perfect.”

He moans as I dig my nails into his back, pounding into me harder and faster. My breasts bounce wildly with each thrust that pushes me against the cool wall. He moves one of his hands from my backside to where he is pushing into me so forcefully, quickly finding the ball of nerves just above my entrance, and rolling it between his finger and thumb. I moan again, coming dangerously close to falling over the edge as he rubs eager circles into me.

“Thomas I’m--”

But I can’t even get all the words out before he sends me crashing over the edge. He thrusts harder and rubs faster circles into my clit, extending the waves of pleasure that are crashing against me. He lets out a groan of his own just as I am beginning to come down, and finishes with my name on his lips.

My knees wobble as he gently pulls out of me and I return my legs to the floor below me. He pulls off the condom, throwing it away before he scoops me up in his arms and collapses into bed, me at his side. He pulls the blankets around us as I study his face, his brow slick with perspiration, his muscles relaxed. I gently brush a piece of hair from his eyes and he smiles at me, kissing my palm as I run my hand across his face.

“That was, incredible.” I breathe, running my hands over his body, relishing in the ecstasy of my orgasm still fresh in my mind.

“Sex as good as you hoped?” He asks, raising an eyebrow coyly.

I smack his arm, but after a long moment I nod.

“Better, actually.”

After a little more banter, we fall asleep tangled in each other’s limbs.

--

I wake the next morning to light pouring in from the window above the bed, and Thomas’ face between my thighs, his tongue stirring up the same storm that had ripped through my body last night. Guess that wasn’t a dream. I moan softly, and he looks up from where he is busy at work, meeting my eyes with a wicked gleam in his. He inserts two fingers into my wet entrance, focussing his mouth’s attention on my throbbing clitoris. I moan louder, grinding my sex into his fingers and mouth, one of my hands entwining in his hair.

“Thomas” I breathe, my last words of the night also being my first words of the morning. “Thomas I’m so close.”

But just as I say it, he pulls away, grinning wickedly as I whimper in protest.

“See how it feels?” He says, grabbing my hands before I am able to finish myself. He pins them above my head.

I squirm, but to no avail. He kisses me, and I nip at his lip in protest. He only laughs.

“What say you bust out that party trick from last night and we finish together?” He asks, flicking my nipple with his free hand.

I nod eagerly, and rise to my knees as he strides across the room to pull another condom out of the drawer. He throws the wrapper in the garbage before offering it to me. I take it, and perform the same stunt I had the night before, only this time, going slowly, gauging his reaction.

But the moment my lips leave him, he pushes me back on the bed,

“Where were we?” He murmurs huskily, gripping my wrists in one hand as he pins the back above my head.

He positions himself at my entrance, but not before asking once again, if I am okay with this. I give him a resounding yes, and all but demand for him to fill me this instant.

If possible, it feels even better than the previous night, the tenderness of my loins still fresh as he sheaths himself within me. I move with him, the two of us establishing a steady rhythm. As he gets closer to his end, he begins once again to make those slow circles around my clitoris with his fingers, pulling me to the edge with him. We finish together.

--

He makes tea for me after, bringing it to where I am basking in the sun on his bed.

“Now, not to be a cliche and kick you out,” he says, “but my sister is about to come over. So if you want to stay, that’s absolutely cool, just maybe get dressed.”

He grins and I shake my head, grabbing his shirt from the floor and slipping it over my head.

“I’ll head out.” I say, “But, this time you have to call me.” I scrawl my number on a piece of scrap paper on his desk, “Because I can dish out the ghosting, but I absolutely can’t take it.”

He laughs and shakes his head, ruffling his hair with his hand.

“I mean, I’m going to have to call you just so I can get my stuff back.” He gestures to the t-shirt I'm wearing, and I wrap my arms across my chest with a grin.

“Exactly. Or, if you just wanted to stop by and get it tonight, my door is always open.”

Suddenly I realize why I had spent the night here to begin with and smack my palm to my forehead. But before I can speak, he tosses a piece of glinting metal through the air and I catch it on instinct.

“How did you get my key?” I ask.

“We all have our tricks.” He says, shrugging.

Deciding I most likely won’t get any answers out of him, I concede and turn away from him, moving towards the door.

“Goodbye Audrey Rose.”

I smile as I cross the hallway in nothing but his shirt, quickly keying into my room and tossing my stuff onto the couch before walking towards my room.

My phone buzzes in my hand and I look down.

‘New Message from Thomas’ It reads. I shake my head as I glance over the message. ‘You looked a little sore when I saw you in the hall. Looks like someone got lucky last night.’

I can’t fight the smile that spreads across my face as I fall back into my own bed, drifting off into a mid-morning nap.

--

Aaaaaa thank you for reading :) Hope you guys enjoyed, and let me know if you like this AU set. 

xx

tag list: @city-of-fae @schmlip-scribble @nish247 

[mentallyinwalmart]

Cressworth in the Dorms

This is a modern au semi-inspired by my first semester at uni in America !!

Audrey lives on the first floor on the corner of the building, her room as two windows and a LOT of natural light

Ileana is a comm. major and Audrey’s randomly assigned roomate. She and papa and uncle Cresswell meet her when they’re moving AR in on the first week

Audrey Rose insists her bed be up realllly high, like a full on loft bed, she isn’t particularly tall and either has to leap onto her bed, or step on her chair for leverage

There’s a painted wooden “A” on the wall above Audrey’s bed, with a lot of little messages written by her friends and family from home

She has little star-shaped twinkle lights around her window and of course, the painting Thomas did for her of the orchid hung on her other wall

She and Ileana keep their room slightly messy, and homey, but their bathroom is immaculate, and somehow always smells like roses (it’s from the potpourri)

Thomas lives in a single on the fourth floor

His room is filled with blank canvases, acrylics, water colors, and clay. There is also a piano in the far corner

He has about a thousand books stacked on his book shelf

And tucked within them as bookmarks is every ticket stub, coffee cozy, and photo booth strip from his dates with Audrey Rose

His walls are sparsely decorated, but his desk is crammed with framed selfies of him and Audrey Rose

His room is filled with candles. Candles are absolutely not allowed in the dorms and yet Thomas is always burning at least four

Despite the fact that Thomas has a single room, they always wind up back in Audrey’s room when they’re studying or hanging out

Of course when they want to do anything else,,, they go back to thomas’ room

But Ileana loves Thomas, and the three of them have good times together

Everytime Thomas walks in with Audrey he gives Ileana a new nickname

Ilea-lily-a

Il-city

Ilistanbul

He is literally always coming up with the most ridiculous names for her, and she loves it

Thomas leaves notes on Audrey’s door every morning without fail

Of course he always deny’s that it was him

They’re anonymous, but the handwriting had that telltale Cresswell tilt and the way he dots his i’s

At first Audrey doesn’t know what to do with them, and just begins to tape them up on her wall above her desk

By the end of first term the wall is covered in these notes

As much as she pretends not to care, everytime she catches those notes out of the corner of her eyes her heart flutters

Audrey and Il get fish they name Dracula and Houdini after their favorite historical icons

Thomas is infatuated with the fish and becomes an honorary parent to them, taking a turn feeding them and watching with unparalleled joy as they blow tiny bubbles in their tank

One weekend, Ileana goes out of town and Thomas and Audrey drink a little too much at a party. Audrey is sooooo excited that Thomas can finally sleep over with her

(She would never let him sleepover no matter how many times Il said she didn’t mind if he did)

“You don’t even know Thomas, the light in the morning from the double windows” she is giggling at every word, gripping his hands as she speaks in earnest

When they finally stumble into Audrey’s bedroom they are both laughing hysterically, but trying to keep quiet because the RA lives just down the hall

Audrey is too hammered to jump up into her bed and so Thomas tries to lift her up, but in their intoxicated state, the two of them can’t quite get it

In the end, they both end up collapsing on the floor, pulling the blankets down from bed

The next morning, the light from the double window wakes them up

Thomas has a headache and Audrey makes him tea because somehow, miraculously, she is completely fine

Even despite the headache, Thomas can’t stop himself from teasing her for being too short to get into bed

Eventually, they both crawl into bed in the loft, and spend the day cuddling in and out of sleep, watching The Office

When Il gets home that night she finds them both asleep in Audrey’s loft, she turns off the light before heading up to a friends room to study

I am loving this set of HC’s, they brought a little joy into my stressed out existence

I hope you guys enjoy, and my inbox is always open for fic prompts and or ideas

Xx

[dashedwithromance]

Hey, if you're still doing requests, could I please have a Cressworth high school AU inspired by 'Miss Americana and the Heartbreak Prince'?

im still taking requests but i’m slightly confused by this one... would you like a cressworth high school fic or audrey rose being pissed at politics cos i can definitely deliver that one

but thank you my love 💕

[mentallyinwalmart]

‘life of the party’

A Cressworth St Patricks Day Fic. Follow up to ‘Locked Out’ and apart of my modern AU ‘Neighbors’.

I sit up in bed, wrapping a sheet around my chest as Thomas opens the window and let’s in the sound of the city.

It had been two weeks since our first hookup, and in the last fourteen nights, Thomas had spent eleven in my bed.

He claimed it was because he had earlier classes, so it was easier for him to slip out in the mornings, but I think it was because he was embarrassed of the constant state of mess that ruled his apartment.

Thomas crashes onto the bed beside me, dropping his head into my lap. He grins up at me, bare except for his pajama pants. He reaches up, and I smile, but then, he catches me off guard by pinching me.

“Ow, Thomas! What was that for?” I demand, smacking his hand away.

“You aren’t wearing green.” He gestures to his green striped pajama pants. “Happy St Patrick’s Day.” He presses a kiss to where he had pinched me before sitting up in bed.

“My eyes are green.” I fire back, leaning over to pinch his bicep.

“Doesn’t count, you aren’t wearing your eyes.” He pinches me back, softer and more playful this time. “At least I hope you never take them off.”

I shake my head and push him away. He grins and stands up, walking towards the kitchen. I hear him turn on the tap, fill something, then I hear the click of the electric kettle snapping on.

“Just make yourself at home why don’t you!” I yell down the hall.

A laugh comes from the kitchen and my skin tingles slightly. I curl my toes as a lazy smile spreads across my face.

He reenters a moment later holding a cup of black coffee and a cup of tea. He offers the tea to me before settling back into bed beside me.

“What’s got you so chipper?” He asks, a smile playing at his own lips.

“I’m just excited about the party.” I say, cocking my head as I smile up at him.

“Oh right about that. I won’t be able to make it to your party tonight.” He says, turning serious, “I’ve got a date.”

I feel my mouth drop open and move my lips, but no words come out. Thomas’ drops his facade and grins.

“I’m kidding, Wadsworth.” He says, “Though I am glad to see that you are glad I don’t have a date.”

“Date whoever you want.” I mumble, taking a deep sip from my teacup and praying the heat I feel rising to my cheeks isn’t noticeable.

“Well…” Thomas pauses, and I lift my gaze from the content of my cup to meet his soft eyes, “The only person I want to date is you.”

I choke on my tea. We haven’t had that conversation. True, I’ve thought about doing something more with him, something beyond enjoying his body, and the feelings it could inspire in mine.

But my fears overwhelm my desire, and I swallow the tea along with the lump in my throat.

“You should really get going.” I say, standing up, still holding the sheet around me, suddenly self concious of my nakedness. “I have a lot of prep for the party. Plus Liza will be here in less than two hours and I need to make myself, presentable.”

Where I would normally expect a quip about how good I looked in nothing but a sheet, Thomas was silent. He just nods, then pulls on his t shirt and silently leaves my room.

I hear him rattle with his keys before the door opens then shuts. I lean against the door frame, wishing we hadn’t left it that way. I grab my pajama shorts and slip them on, quickly grabbing a shirt off the top of my dresser. My heart sinks as I look at it.

It was the shirt Thomas had on the night of the spider incident. The night we had talked in his kitchen til the early hours of the morning.

I run my fingers across the soft fabric. Thomas likes to joke that everytime he managed to steal one of his shirt back, I took three more in its place.

I smile as I press the balled up shirt to my nose, hoping against hope it may still smell like his body wash, or his cologne. But it doesn’t. The only scent that clings to the shirt is oh my perfume, and faintly, our commingled sweat.

I set the shirt down on the bed, resolving to deal with that, and my feelings, later. I pull on a green tank top from my top drawer and walk to the kitchen, rinsing our cups and putting them in the dishwasher before turning on the oven and the crock pot. I pull some meat and butter from the refrigerator, setting a timer before I leave them to defrost on the counter.

I grab my phone and my Bluetooth speaker, checking my messages as I walk to the shower. A few texts from Liza, letting me know when she planned to come over to help me prep. But none from Thomas. I don’t even know if I want him to call me. I shrug it off and hop in the shower, humming along to the music as I clean myself, starting with my hair and working my way down.

When I get out I check my phone again:

No new messages.

I try to stop my heart from sinking at the thought of hearing nothing from Thomas. It hasn’t even been an hour since he left. I remind myself, wrapping my hair in a towel before slipping into my bathrobe.

—

A knock at my door pulls me from my haze of singing and baking in the kitchen and I dash across the room.

Thomas. I think as I open the door wide to reveal:

My cousin, dressed in a green pleated mini skirt and a black halter top. She grins, throwing her arms around me.

“Audreyyyy!!” She exclaims, squealing so loud I fear she may send Mrs Harvey’s cats into a frenzy.

“Liza!” I reply, letting her embrace me.

I tuck my head into her shoulder, but keep one eye focused on the door across the hall. Just open it just open it just open it. But alas, my begging does nothing but heighten the disappointment in the pit of my stomach as I close the door after Liza bounces in, two bags of decorations, and three bottles of whisky in her wake.

“Sooooo.” Liza says, “Do you think Will is going to show up tonight?”

My heart thuds as I stare blankly at her. Will, Christ I forgot about Will!

Liza looks at me, raising an eyebrow in skepticism,

“You know, Will, Will Blackburn,” she pauses, searching my eyes, discovering the secrets within them as only she can. “You’ve moved on.”

It’s not a question, but even so I nod.

Liza lets out a breathe, a sort of low whistle as she flops onto my couch.

“Is it your mystery hookup? Mr The Best Sex You’ve Ever Had?” She grins as I blush, burying my face in my hands.

“Yea.” I fess up, looking at her over the tips of my fingers. “But, well, I don’t know what’s going to happen now.”

“Why, what did you do?”

“Hey!” I protest, but she just gives me a knowing look and I sigh, “Yea okay it is my fault.”

I explain what had happened this morning, the coffee, the flutters in my chest, the sadness as the idea of him being with anyone but me, and then the way I had just completely shut down when he had all but asked me out.

Liza sits for a long moment, calculating it would seem, exactly how to get me out of this mess.

“Well what do you feel?” I had expected advice, some sage wisdom on how to get him to forgive me. But her question stumps me.

“I don’t know, Liza. It feels so soon! I mean, Will and I broke up three weeks ago, I’m worried I just miss dating, and that I may wake up one morning and realize that I feel nothing for him.” I pause, “Well besides ridiculous attraction.”

“You have chemistry, from what I hear,” She says, “you’re clearly compatible sexually, and it would seem emotionally.”

I raise an eyebrow as she continues,

“I mean come on Audrey. You spent hours together the night you first met. You were comfortable enough with him to sleep in his apartment that night you were locked out, and then, even though you barely knew him, you managed to tell him exactly what you wanted.”

“But that’s because I knew what I wanted!” I say, leaning forward to rest my chin in my hands.

Liza sighs.

“You don’t want him to date other girls Audrey, obviously that’s an indicator that, on some level, you want him to be with you.” She pauses, “Look, I’m not going to tell you how to play this. I know you’re just going to do what you want anyways, so I’m not gonna bother wasting my breathe.” She grins and I groan. “So think about it, I assume he’s coming to the party, so see how you feel when you interact with him in a non-bedroom setting.”

I smile and toss my arms around her. Despite the fact that I wish she could’ve just made all the choices for me, I love her for seeming to really get my feelings.

“Those feelings aren’t confined to the bedroom.” I give her a wicked grin and look between her and the couch she’s sitting on.

“Gross, Audrey.” She says, but I see her shift in her seat, as though she wants to touch the couch as little as possible. “Please tell me the kitchen is safe.”

I wink at her in response and she fakes a gagging sound.

—

We are just putting the finishing touches on the clover cookies when Liza finally dares to ask.

“This kitchen is so small, how did you even—”

I lean over the counter in response, it’s lip resting perfectly at my hips, the perfect height for Thomas to bend me over it and—

“God damnit Audrey Rose!” She says, smacking me with a dish towel, “you horny little slut.”

I giggle as I place the last cookie on the platter and survey the place.

It looks great, green table cloths spread across the counter and coffee table, shot glasses on beaded necklaces scattered throughout the room, the bottles of whisky on the counter, next to the plates of cookies, the bowl of chips, and the other entrees.

Liza moves across the room to adjust the hanging banner that boasts of the drinking to come.

“So,” she calls from across the room, “what are you wearing.”

I raise an eyebrow,

“This.” I say, gesturing to the green tank top and denim overall shorts I’m wearing.

But Liza just shakes her head.

“Absolutely not.” She says, grabbing me hand and dragging me to the bedroom, grabbing her purse as we head in.

“Okay,” she dumps the purses contents and out comes a bag of Bobby pins and mini hair spray, a green scrunchie, and a push up bra. “Now let’s get one thing straight, you are not wearing that.”

Before I can protest she throws open my closet doors, rifling through for something, I don’t bother asking what.

“Here!” She exclaims after a moment, pulling out something she had lent me long ago that I had never been bold enough to wear.

The dress is small, with a plunging neckline and capped sleeves. The hem goes down barely to my mid thighs and it looks as if it would hug every curve of me. Very different than my normal clothing choices.

“Liza I don’t know.” I say, leaning against the wall as I nervously twist a curl around my finger, “I worry ill just look awkward.”

But my cousin shakes her head and pushes the dress towards me.

“Just try it.” She says, backing out of the room before I can protest.

I consider it for a long moment before unclipping my overalls and peeling off my shorts, then pulling off my tank top. I replace my bra with the push up one Liza had brought and pause to marvel at how my breasts look all pushed up.

I pull the dress on before I can sike myself out, and call for Liza to come in and help me zip.

“Oh Audrey, yes.” Is all she says as she enters, her eyes darting across my whole dorm.

I smile at her in the mirror as she stands behind me, zipping me up.

“I do look good, don’t I.” I say with a smile, enjoying the way my figure looks fuller.

“Yes. You’ll kill your hookup before he even has the chance to say ‘let’s—’”

I smack her on the arm before she can finish.

“His name is Thomas.” I say, shaking my head, “I’ll point him out when he gets here.”

Liza beams as I surrender my hair and makeup to her, letting her put on gold eyeshadow, thick black eyeliner, pink lipstick, and a ridiculous amount of glitter on my cheekbones and collar bones. She pulls my hair into a half ponytail atop my head with the green scrunchie, and finishes me off with a few puffs of hairspray and a pair of gold hoops.

I hardly recognize myself in the mirror, but I like the changes I see before me. It almost feels like a disguise, like I might somehow be able to face Thomas after what happened this morning if this is how I’ll look from the outside.

The doorbell rings just as Liza is putting away everything.

“First of our guests!!” She exclaims, dashing to the door.

I strain my gaze, but Thomas is not among the group of my grad school friends that enter. I check the clock above my bed and see that it’s only nine, that the party had only just begun.

But nine turns into ten, and ten to eleven.

Though the party is nowhere near close to winding down, I’m starting to worry he may not show.

Liza pushes a fifth shot of whisky into my hand and clinks me before knocking hers back.

“Do you think I should go get him?” I ask, and she looks back at me, her cheeks flushed from booze, but her eyes as fiery as normal.

“Do you want him here?” She asks, and before I can think to sike myself out I nod.

“I do, Liza. I haven’t even been able to enjoy the party. There’s no one else I want to dance with, no one else I want to even talk to…” I pause as she glowers at me, “besides you of course!” I add quickly

She doesn’t even pause, simply taking the shot from my hand and setting it on the counter.

“Then you better go get him.” She says, squeezing my hand before pushing me in the direction of the door.

I close the door behind me as I step into the hall, taking a deep breath and doing my best not to stumble as I cross the hall in my heels, coming to rest just in front of his door. I raise my hand, but can’t seem to find the courage to knock. I groan, and let my head drop forward and rest against the door. However, I hadn’t accounted for the noise it would make, and as I pull away to rub my forehead, I can hear footsteps coming from inside the apartment.

I square my shoulders, smoothing my hair and adjusting my boobs inside the bra. I plaster on my best smile, trying to push away my nerves when the door opens to reveal--

A girl. Not his sister, and not someone I have ever seen before. My cheeks flush and my blood runs hot in my veins as I stumble back from the door.

“Who’s at the door Ileana?” Thomas’ voice calls from somewhere in the room. I blink back tears as I taking in her clothes, or lack thereof. She stands in an oversized t shirt and a pair of short cloth shorts.

“I’m not sure Tommy.” She says, and I begin to backpedal away from the door “Looks like she’s just come from the party.”

But as I hear Thomas’ heavy steps come towards the door I turn and begin quickly walking away, blinking furiously.

“Audrey Rose?” Thomas calls, and I freeze. “What are you doing here?”

I turn and see he is full clothed and he doesn’t look too disheveled. I take a small comfort in that as he looks me up and down, his eyes widening as he takes in the low neckline of the dress and my breasts that are practically popping out.

“I was just coming to see why you hadn’t,” I paused, swallowing the lump in my throat and doing my best to steady my voice, “shown up to the party.”

“So we were invited to the party!” The sultry voice from the first day I met him comes from the apartment, and soon there is a third dark haired individual standing in the doorway.

Daciana Cresswell’s hair hangs in long waves of black, the dark green of her dress making her skin look even more fair than it had the day I met her.

“Yes.” I manage to get out, my eyes once again trailing over to Ileana, the girl who is now threading her hand through Daciana’s.

“Thomas you liar.” Daciana smacks her brother in the arm before stepping out of the apartment. She smiles at me, her hand still holding the other girls. “I’m Daciana, and it is a pleasure to meet you for real Audrey Rose.” She says with a grin, “This is my girlfriend Ileana.” She pauses, eyes searching my face as a wave of understanding washes over me, and suddenly I feel very foolish. “It was so kind of you to invite us, I only wish Thomas had been kind enough to pass along the message.” She shakes her head in her brothers direction.

“No worries.” I say, a smile sliding across my face as I step to my door and open it, allowing Daciana and Ileana to cross the threshold and join the mob of people inside my apartment.

I stand next to the door, lifting my gaze back to meet Thomas’s. He leans against his doorframe, arms crossed over his chest. I want to cross to him and kiss the last remnants of his sadness this morning off of his face, but I hold myself back.

“You coming?” I ask, gesturing to the open door beside me.

He sizes me up for a long moment, our eyes battling for dominance the way our lips had so many times before. After a long moment, he nods, and I watch him slip his keys into his pocket before closing his door and taking a step towards me.

I extend my hand to him and he takes it. We enter the party together, and I close the door behind us.

I lose him briefly as he goes to the drink table and I go to exchange a few quick words with Liza, but he finds me again on the dance floor a moment later, his normal scent now laced with a hint of whisky.

I smile and take his hands in mine, pulling him close as we dance together. His hands find a place to rest on my backside, and I am content with settling mine around his neck. We do not speak, not as we dance, nor after he kisses me, giving my ass a good squeeze. We just share smiles and lazy kisses. I realize in these moments of silence as the party rages on around us that I could be content to have nothing but this.

We dance as the party dwindles, as slowly but surely, my friends and Liza’s are all gone, until the only people left on the floor is me, him, his sister, and Ileana. Liza is passed out on the couch, and only after I finally tear my gaze from his captivating eyes do I realize how tired I am, and how late it is.

I turn off the stereo and toss a blanket over Liza, surveying the messy apartment around me. I sigh as Thomas exchanges a few words with his sister, moving to grab a trash bag. But Liza stirs on the couch.

“We’ll deal with it in the morning, Audrey.” She drawls before turning over and burrowing into her blankets.

I move to her, unstrapping her shoes, and doing my best to wipe off her lipstick with a napkin. When I look up from her face, Thomas is ushering the girls from my apartment. I weigh my options, stay and just turn in, or chase him down.

Five shots of whisky and my need overrule my nerves and I stand up, kicking my heels off before dashing across the room.

“Thomas wait.” I say, grabbing his hand. I realize that his sister and the other girl are beside him in the hall, and their inquisitive looks make me flush. But it’s long past the time for being shy. I thread my fingers through Thomas’s. “Come with me to the roof?”

He fishes his keys from his pockets and offers them to his sister, not even looking at her as she mumbles goodnight, simply keeping his gaze on me as I lead us to the roof.

The cool breeze of the summer night causes gooseflesh to form on my arms and I shiver, leaning into him slightly for warmth. He obliges me by wrapping his arm around my shoulder.

“Thomas.” I murmur, looking up at him, his eyes dancing in the moonlight. “Do you really want to go out with me?”

He pauses for a long moment,

“Audrey Rose like I said before, I’m happy to do as much or as little as you want. I know you are still getting over Will and I don’t want to rush you--”

But I silence him by gently putting a finger over his lips.

“I haven’t thought about Will in weeks.” I bite my lip as I trace his jawline with my fingertips. Now it is his turn to shiver, and the want in his eyes lights a fire inside of me. “I realized tonight, when I felt incomplete without you at the party, when I thought that girl was someone you were also hooking up with,” I swallow, “when you held me in your arms when we danced. I feel at home when you are with me.” I trace his cheekbone with my hand, “Can we agree to see each other during the day? And to not, do what we do, with anyone else?”

For a moment, as another grin plays at his lips, I worry he is going to retort with a sassy comment, but when he smiles and covers my hand on his cheek with his, I see all the humor melt away in his eyes.

“Audrey Rose Wadsworth, I would like nothing more than that.” He says with a gentle smile, using his other hand to brush a stray curl from my eyes.

I grasp the hand he had settled on my cheek and press a kiss to his palm.

The whole galaxy seems to twirl around us as he takes my face in his hands and kisses me. Softer, purer than any other kiss we have shared before. He leaves me breathless and wanting more as he pulls away.

---

as always thanks a literal million for reading :) Please let me know if you want more from this series 

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