#days like today i still go off and say prayers of thanks that she's here with us! and that i know her! thank goodness!

[daisynik7]

Out of Time Part Two - Nanami x f!reader

Click here for Part One!

Rating: Explicit - MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

cw: PIV sex (doggy, cowgirl), cunnilingus, fingering, spit play, nipple play, cum-eating, dirty talk, cream pie, multiple orgasms, just downright filthy smut, alright?

Word Count: ~3.7k

Summary: Finished with your thesis, and a huge weight lifted off your shoulders, you can finally focus on the only other thing occupying your mind the past forty-eight hours: Kento Nanami, the man you met two nights ago at your favorite bar, the one you shared an unforgettable evening with. Through serendipity, and with a little help from your friends, two well-acquainted strangers reconnect for one more night. Author's Notes: The very smutty part two of this little fic! I had a lot of fun writing this, and I hope you enjoy reading it! Likes, reblogs, and/or comments are always appreciated! Thank you!

One last tap of your mouse on the Submit button and your thesis is complete. A week from today, you’re scheduled to present it in front of your faculty advisor and a few other professors, which you’re not concerned about considering you’ve dedicated hundreds of hours of research to this topic. A week after that, you’ll be handed your diploma, officially a graduate. With the written portion finished, you feel a giant burden lifted off your shoulders, one that’s been weighing on you since the start of the semester. For the first time in months, you’re free. 

You collapse onto your bed, staring up at the ceiling, smiling. Besides ridding yourself of the dreaded essay, there’s another big reason why you’re giddy: Kento Nanami. You’ve tried your best to keep him in the back of your mind, at least until you submitted your paper. However, it’s been quite the challenge, especially after the unforgettable evening the two of you shared two nights ago. It’s a faraway dream you let yourself indulge in. Too good to be true, too perfect to be real. You said your goodbyes without exchanging phone numbers. Still, it doesn’t hurt to fantasize about it. Right?

You check your phone for the first time since yesterday, basically isolating yourself from the outside world. There are several texts from Gina, making sure you’re alive. A couple from other group chats, the usual collection of messages you’re used to seeing after staying offline for more than a day. However, one from an unknown number captures your attention. You’re almost certain it’s spam, ready to block and delete without a second thought. You check it anyways, unprepared for what you’re about to read.

~~~

Two nights ago

Nanami presses his palms together, almost in prayer, tapping his fingers to his nose. He stares at Gojo, who has that typical shit-eating grin plastered on his face, typing away on his phone. After several minutes of discussion, Nanami agrees to accept Gojo’s help to reconnect with the woman he kissed tonight, the one who left him with this odd fluttering sensation in his belly.

“Alright. I sent it. Now we wait,” Gojo says, stretching his arms out. When there’s no response within five minutes, he stands up, getting ready to sleep, leaving his phone on the bed. Nanami is too anxious to leave his current position, willing for a reply to come soon. Thankfully, the universe grants his wishes, the phone vibrating and flashing a notification with Gina’s name on it. 

“Gojo, she texted you back,” he yells out to his friend, staring at the screen. He’s tempted to check the message himself, but Nanami is still a man of reason, not wanting to invade his friend’s personal property.

“You can read it,” Gojo says from the bathroom, sounding like he has a toothbrush shoved in his mouth. “Go ahead, buddy. I know you want to.”

With permission granted, he unlocks the phone, clicking on the familiar icon to view their conversation:

Gojo: Hey beautiful, can you give me your friend’s #? Nanami is smitten and the dumbass forgot to ask for it.

Gina: LOL I’ll give it but tell the croissant man to text her AFTER she submits her thesis.

Gina: so in 2 days

Gina: and tell him she’s smitten too.

Nanami can’t contain his smile at the last text. 

~~~

You read the message, so surprised, you double back and do it again, this time more carefully. 

Hi, this is Nanami. Congrats on finishing your thesis. If you’re free tonight, we should celebrate.

A rush of thoughts invades your mind. Somehow, he found your number, most likely from Gojo, who asked Gina. But it’s the fact that he wanted to find you, to contact you, that has your head spinning in a pleasant frenzy. You were convinced that after that night, you’d never see him again. You also assumed that him living in Tokyo, almost one hour from here, would be a deal breaker. But if there’s one thing you learned about Nanami that fateful night, it’s that he’s a man of many surprises. 

His last sentence sticks out to you the most. He’s offering to celebrate tonight. Does that mean he’s willing to take the hour-long journey just to see you? Or is it possible that he’s here? Not one to entertain mysteries, you decide to give him a call instead of responding through text. First, you save his number under his name, resisting the strong urge to add a little heart emoji next to it, then you prepare yourself before dialing. 

After two rings, he picks up. “Hello?”

“Hi, Nanami. It’s me.”

He chuckles softly. “It’s you.”

“I’d love to take you up on your offer. Maybe we can meet halfway so you don’t have to travel so far.”

“That’s unnecessary. I’m actually still here.” He hesitates before continuing. “I booked the hotel room for a few more nights. Gojo left and it’s just me.” Another pause. “I’m not trying to seduce you or anything, but I would really like to see you again.”

You giggle to yourself, though you’re sure he hears it too, with the way you catch the hitch in his breath. “Me too. Let’s meet at the same bar then, tonight at 8. We can grab a drink or something.”

“Or something,” he repeats, the grin on his face audible through the phone. “That sounds wonderful. I’ll see you tonight.”

“Oh, and Nanami?”

“Yes?”

“Maybe I’m in the mood to be seduced tonight.”

With that, you hang up, smirking, heading to your closet to find the perfect outfit.

~~~

Nanami doesn’t get flustered easily, but whatever powers this woman possesses over him, it’s working. Because he is most definitely flustered. 

Maybe I’m in the mood to be seduced tonight.

Her parting words replay in his head over and over. In all honestly, it shouldn’t surprise him, considering what they almost did inside that karaoke room. Still, he’s caught off guard by her boldness. And very much turned on. He paces his hotel room, checking his watch to calculate how much time he has until they meet. A couple hours to go. He’s tempted to call her and see her now, but he doesn’t want to come on too strong. He reminds himself that patience is a virtue, and tonight will be well worth the wait. There are a few errands he thinks of to distract himself, the day passing relatively quickly until it’s time for him to get ready. 

He steps out of the hotel around 7:50 PM, dressed in his typical attire: tan suit, navy blue dress shirt underneath, and his signature spotted tie. His glasses are tucked inside his breast pocket for safe keeping. As he crosses the street to approach the bar, he feels the nerves jittering through his body. He doesn’t want this to end up being a big disappointment, for either him or her. 

Upon entering, he doesn’t expect to see her yet. Nanami is used to being early to things; he prides himself in being punctual, and rarely expects that from anyone else. So when he does spot her, standing at one end of the bar, stunning in a black dress that accentuates her beauty in the most dazzling way, all his worries disappear. The only thought in his mind is that he wants this woman, needs this woman. And if it’s only for one more night, he’s going to make the most out of it. 

She immediately notices him, a bright smile on her face as he walks towards her. With a wave, she greets him. “Nanami. You found me.”

“I found you,” he responds, returning her grin. “Congrats on finishing your thesis.”

“Thank you. I’m so relieved.” 

There’s a slight pause as Nanami studies her, trying not to be too obvious. She does the same, her eyes slowly checking him out from head to toe. Deciding to be completely candid tonight, no holding back, he says, “You’re beautiful.”

She giggles, averting her gaze away from him, nervous. “Thank you.”

“Why did you have to wear a dress like this tonight?” he asks, leaning closer to her. He wants to touch her hand, hold it between his. The memory of them dancing together in the karaoke room the other night feels distant; he wants to remember the softness of her skin, the way their fingers lock together perfectly. 

“Do you not like it?” she asks.

“You know I do.”

“So what’s the matter?” She bats her eyelashes, teasing him. She knows exactly what she’s doing. 

Something in him snaps. He can’t control himself anymore. The desire to finish what they started takes over. Bowing his head, he whispers in her ear, “I’m trying to be good, I really am.”

With a wicked smirk on her face, she replies, “I don’t want you to be good. I want you to be mine.”

Minutes later, they’re stepping into the elevator of the hotel, hand-in-hand, Nanami’s face flush, anticipating what’s about to occur. Once the doors close, he remains still, desperately wishing she makes the first move. Seconds in, his wish is granted. She tugs at his tie, pulling him in for a kiss, hungry and eager. His hands roam to her waist, gripping her tightly, fingertips pressed shallow into her flesh through the fabric. He can’t wait to strip this off her, worship her bare body, touch every centimeter of her supple skin. Run his tongue along her most sensitive spots, make her whimper in pleasure. It’s all he’s thought about the last two nights. 

Once inside the room, he gently pushes her against the closed door, kissing her deeply, tongue swirling around hers. His fingers reach for the zipper behind her dress, slowly pulling it down until it’s split, exposing her back. He feels for the clasp of her bra, undoing it in an instant. She undresses from the top, shoving the clothing off her shoulders and wiggling out, now naked from the waist up. He admires her breast before dipping down to wrap his lips around her nipple, tugging at it between his lips as she hums in pleasure. He’s gentle with her, unsure what her limit is when it comes to things like this. But he’s not sure how much longer he can hold back. 

“You can suck them harder, if you want,” she whispers, watching him. “I like it a little rough.”

It takes everything in him to not growl on the spot. He feels like an animal in heat, lust fueling every carnal desire he possesses. Permission granted, he suckles at her peaked tits, his entire mouth surrounding her breast. His free hand grasps at her other nipple, pinching it between his thumb and forefinger, teasing her until she swears wantonly,  “Oh fuck!” Her head thrown back against the door, eyes shut tight, fingers buried in his blonde hair. He flicks his thumb across her swollen teat when he relaxes his grip. He wants her sore and satiated when he’s done with her. Test out all the ways he can make her come, whether from his cock, his fingers, his mouth. Whatever he can do; he wants to give her his all tonight. 

In a haste, he sheds his tan blazer, tossing it to the floor. The rest of his outfit follows, until he’s clad only in his briefs, with his erection tight against the fabric, a spot of precum leaking through. She makes her way to the bed, sliding the rest of her dress off, panties clinging to her, waiting for him. He hurries over, grinning as he positions himself beside her, caressing her cheek, kissing her slowly, relishing the way her mouth melts into his. His fingers gradually trail down, memorizing every curve of her body, in case they run out of time again. He’s unsure what the future holds for them. So he’ll spend the entire night if he has to, learning everything about her until he knows her like the back of his hand, until she’s familiar in his mind.  

He breaks the kiss to latch his mouth onto her breast, cupping it in one hand, his other between her legs, silk panties already damp. Rubbing at the wet spot, his cock twitches, feeling her arousal on his fingertips. She spreads her legs wider, moaning, running her fingers along his tousled hair. “I love it, Nanami. I love it.”

He hooks his finger around the crotch of her panties, sliding it off completely. With a pop, he releases her from his mouth, kneeling beside her to study her naked form. “God, you’re so beautiful. I can’t believe how lucky I am.”

She sits up, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I’m the lucky one.”

“We’re both lucky, then,” he says, nuzzling his nose to hers. 

Giggling, she presses her lips to his. “Didn’t think you’d be this lovey-dovey.”

“Do you want me to be mean? I can do that too.” He nips at her bottom lip, smirking. 

She laughs again. “I’d like to see you try.”

“Oh, you’re asking for it, aren’t you? Naughty girl.” He grabs at one of her ass cheeks, squeezing at her plush flesh. “Always trying to seduce me.” 

“Who, me? I’m innocent,” she teases, pouting at him. She palms the erection confined in his briefs. He bucks his hips at the contact, swearing, “Fuck, I can’t take it anymore. I need to taste you now.”

Leaning back against the pillows, she spreads her thighs wide with a wicked look on her face. “Go ahead, then. Help yourself.”

~~~

Your cheeks are hot with arousal, nipples swollen and sensitive from Nanami’s torment. His erection is strained beneath his underwear, unbearably uncomfortable. He slips his thumb beneath the band and slides it down his legs, boner springing free against his abdomen. Your pussy throbs, yearning for his thick girth inside you. Without wasting any more time, he positions himself between your legs, flicking his tongue at your clit. His lips surround you, sucking at your bud until it’s plump in his mouth, swishing his spit around it. Pleasure radiates from your core, causing you to spasm. He hums against your skin, amused at your reaction, his movements becoming sloppier by the second the deeper he dives into you. He teases his middle finger along you entrance. “Can I finger you?” he asks, voice muffled as his tongue continues to work on you. 

You nod erratically, willing to agree to whatever he offers you. He slides in slowly, the lewd squelch of his thick finger against wet skin enough to push you close to the edge. He inserts his ring finger next to the middle, curling the tips as far as they can reach, brushing your sweet spot. That, in conjunction with the relentless slurping of your clit, has you in a fucked-out daze. 

Without warning, he pulls out of you, causing you to whine from the sudden emptiness. He studies his digits, glistening in your arousal, and sticks them inside his mouth. You watch with your tongue lolling out of your mouth in a dumb expression, in awe as he slurps and swallows your slick like a treat he’s been waiting for all fucking night. He smiles at you, meeting your gaze, clearly enjoying your expression at the little stunt he just performed. “Are you okay?” he asks, lowering himself back towards your pussy, waiting for your answer before he resumes. 

You nod once more, too bewitched by him to respond coherently. He spits on your pussy, thick and syrupy, smearing it over your puffy clit. He repeats this a few times, drenching you in his warm saliva. Suddenly, it’s all too much. There’s tightness in your abdomen, body becoming rigid as your reach your high. That doesn’t stop him; he continues to lap at your arousal, growling, “Come all over my face. Give it to me.” It’s not until your twitching from overstimulation that he slows down. With one last kiss, he pulls off, mouth and chin sticky with your cum. He licks around his lips, collecting whatever he can to swallow. You start to relax against the mattress, head dizzy from the aftermath of your intense orgasm. Still, you’re aching to feel him deep inside you. 

“Don’t stop,” you utter. “I want you inside me.”

He looks at you, concerned. “Are you sure?”

You reach for him, tugging him close to you. “Absolutely sure. Don’t hold back on me.” 

Chuckling in that low, sexy voice, he answers, “As you wish, princess.” He sits up beside you, rolling you on top of him so that you’re straddling his lap. “I want you like this,” he whispers into your ear, giving you a smack on your ass. You drape your arms around his shoulders, holding onto him securely, ready for the ride. He guides his cock inside you, slipping in smoothly. Breath hot on your ear, he asks, “Can you give me another one? Just one more before I come?”

You nod lazily without speaking, rocking your hips against him, hooked on the feeling of him buried deep inside you. He bounces you on his cock like his own personal sex doll, body pliant, slamming down easily on his dick. It’s addicting, the way he pumps into you, fucking your sweet spot like it’s never been fucked before. “Does this feel good? When I fuck this pretty pussy?” He scatters chaste kisses along your neck, dewy from perspiration. 

“Yes, oh fuck yes,” you manage to say weakly, all your energy drained from being fucked into a frenzy.   

“Make yourself come again. Want it really creamy,” he huffs, head bowed, watching his dick disappear in and out of your tight cunt. You moan at his filthy words, reaching between you, toying with your slippery bud. It doesn’t take long for you to come again, your sticky mess coating his cock with each thrust. “I’m coming!” you cry out, clenching his broad shoulders. 

He follows, shooting his load inside you, thrusting until every last drop is released into your womb. You kiss him passionately, clinging to him closely, enough to feel the subtle thump of his heartbeat through his chest. It’s intimate the way your bodies meld to together, seamless and a perfect fit. Like it was truly meant to be. 

You carefully lift yourself off his lap, collapsing next to him. You’re spent, light-headed from pleasure, convinced that the both of you have hit your limit. But, as always, Nanami surprises you. “I’m not done with you yet,” he says, dragging you roughly to the edge of the bed where he stands, grip firm around your waist. “I want to fuck my cum even deeper inside you. Fill you up so it’s leaking out until tomorrow morning. Think you can take it?”

This switch in behavior doesn’t alarm you; in fact, it spurs you on, makes you instantly forget about your foggy brain and tired limbs. You crane your neck to look at him, meeting his lust-filled gaze. “Oh fuck, Nanami. I want it. Give it to me.”

He doesn’t hold back, per your request from earlier, and he does give it to you, fucking you feverishly into the mattress. Face buried into a pillow, biting to muffle the shameless moans spilling out of your mouth with each savage thrust. The bed frame starts to creak, his movements becoming more erratic as he approaches his second climax. He sputters nonsense, spilling inside you, too sensitive now to speak coherently. It takes a moment for him to calm down, pulling out slowly to watch his cum dribble out of you. With a pleased smile on your face, you crawl towards the middle of the bed, not caring about the mess, and retreat under the covers, closing your eyes. You feel the bed sink, Nanami joining beside you, arms wrapping you in a snug embrace, lips pressed to your forehead. 

“I’m sorry,” he starts. “I got a little carried away. I’m not usually like this.”

You let out a small laugh, opening your lids halfway. “That’s what they all say,” you tease him, resting your palm on his chest. 

“I mean it. If you feel at all concerned or offended by this, I – ”

You interrupt, placing a finger to his lips, shushing him. “Nanami, I liked it. A lot.” You hesitate before admitting, “I like you. A lot.”

His eyes widen at your confession. “What?”

Giggling, you repeat, “I like you, Nanami. I want to keep seeing you.” Suddenly, you feel embarrassed. You’re not even sure if he feels the same way about you. Quickly, you add, “If you don’t feel the same way, I understand. I can leave now if you want me to –”

It’s his turn to interrupt, this time with a kiss. It’s slow and smooth, no rush. When he breaks away, he whispers, “I like you, too. A lot. A whole lot.” 

You kiss again, relief and glee swelling in your chest. The two of you fall asleep in each other’s arms, his chin tucked to the top of your head, your face nestled into the crook of his neck. Your steady heartbeats lulling you into a peaceful slumber. 

~~~

Nanami can’t remember the last time he felt this kind of joy. In all honestly, maybe this is the first. 

He wakes up in the morning, the sun streaming through the curtain windows, illuminating his hotel room with a brilliant golden light. Best of all, she’s snuggled into his body, comfortable and cozy, as if she belongs here. It feels right. 

He watches her for a while before her eyelids flutter open. Catching him, she yawns, “Good morning.”

“Good morning.”

“What time is it?”

“Almost 10. We have to check out soon.”

Frowning, she says, “We’re out of time again.” 

He nuzzles his nose to hers. “Just for today. But you and me, we have all the time in the world now, don’t we?”

She beams at him. “You’re right. You’re absolutely right.”

They cuddle in silence for a few more moments before she suggests, “Want to get some croissants?”

Unable to contain his smile, he responds, “I thought you’d never ask.”

[inuyashaeienni]

I didn't realize today was posting day!! I read the instructions wrong!! 😆😆😆

Take 2!! I am taking part in the Tanabata Inu-spiration Bang as a writer with the lovely @mayarab!

Ahem! So Without further ado!!

Here is: @inu-spiration

Shikon Cafe!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kikyou

“Hey Inuyasha. I tried calling you but I guess I shouldn’t be surprised that you didn’t answer.”

12:00 pm JST

“We need to talk. Call me when you get this message”

12:01 pm JST

“This bitch is going to drive me crazy,” Inuyasha muttered with a sigh as he leaned his head back on his sofa with deep annoyance as he took his eyes away from a text he received an hour ago. His long silver hair softly cascading over his sofa, he stared at the ceiling with deep thought and a frown on his face. It is a beautiful Tuesday afternoon in Tokyo, with high sunny clouds, but not even the bright, warm summer day can change this dog boy’s sour increasing mood. It's like a kettle pot ever so slightly tipping over by the minute.

His sharp, dog-like ears started twitching in irritation as flashbacks from his last interaction with her 6 months ago didn’t go so well. Now a random text from his ex-girlfriend Kikyou had put him in a foul mood, and his usual scowl had deepened to a near-permanent fixture.

"Man, you've got to let it go," Miroku sighed, leaning back in his chair opposite Inuyasha. He could practically feel his growing irritation from a mile away. He ran a hand through his dark hair, the prayer beads around his wrist clinking softly. "It's been months. You need to move on."

"Easy for you to say," Inuyasha growled, sitting up from his sofa, his fingers tightening around his phone. "She just texted me out of nowhere, acting like nothing happened. She says she wants to talk. What's there to talk about? She already made her choice."

Miroku raised an eyebrow, used to Inuyasha’s outbursts, wondering how that phone was still intact. That is one tight grip. "Perhaps she's regretting her decision. Maybe she wants closure." He leaned his head back against the chair, letting the AC freeze away the heat radiating off his body.

"Closure, my ass," Inuyasha muttered. "She just wants to mess with my head. And why should I give her the satisfaction?"

"Inuyasha, demanding an explanation isn't going to help. Just hear her out. It might be good for the both of you," Miroku advised, his eyes still closed, though his tone suggested he knew his words would fall on deaf ears.

"Whatever," Inuyasha snapped, shoving his phone into his pocket. "If she thinks she can just waltz back into my life, she's got another thing coming."

Miroku sighed, standing up and stretching, hearing a bone crack or two in satisfaction. "You know what? Let's get out of here. We've been cooped up in this apartment for too long. There's a new café down the street, Shikon Café. Let's check it out. A change of scenery might do you some good."

Inuyasha grumbled but reluctantly agreed. "Fine, but if I see one more message from Kikyou, I'm gonna lose it."

Miroku chuckled softly. "I'll keep that in mind. Come on, let's go."

—-----

6 hours earlier

"And here's the final touch for a scrumptious Mocha Chai Latte!" Ashira exclaimed with excitement as she whipped up a drool-worthy dollop of whipped cream on top, finishing up the steps to make the drink. Kagome, wide-eyed yet determined, nodded her head to show she was listening, but she couldn't help but wonder if she had been caught daydreaming during Coffee number 52.

“So any questions?” her co-worker asked without losing a beat. So much energy for 6 am. Kagome shook her head, “No, Thank you for your help! I think everything will just come with practice,” She chuckled awkwardly. ‘I don’t know how these people remember all of these coffee combinations.’ Kagome thought to herself.

Ashira smiled and chuckled alongside her, her bright attitude shining through, “Absolutely! Not to worry, in time, everything will just come naturally. Now we should be having customers soon. If you need help, I’ll be right over there if you have any questions!” With that, she bounced off to the back of the cafe, leaving Kagome to take care of the front counter. They just opened up, so there wasn’t any foot traffic yet, surprisingly.

Arriving home for Summer break after a long junior year at Asthan College, Kagome didn’t want to lay around at the Shrine all day. She loved her family, but one more history lesson would drive her insane. She groaned as she mentally relived the agony of her grandfather’s stories. The jingling of the bell jolted Kagome out of her moment of flashback, and right into action, “Welcome in!”

About mid-day afternoon, The two friends made their way to the Shikon Café, the warm summer air doing little to improve Inuyasha's mood. As they approached the café, the scent of freshly brewed coffee and baked goods wafted through the air, momentarily distracting Inuyasha from his anger.

After finishing her first morning rush, Kagome was busy arranging pastries in the display case. She had to call Ashira for help once or twice, spilled coffee, and dropped a few muffins on the ground from touching them with her hand after pulling them out of the oven, but she felt pretty confident in her newly acquired skills. She was determined to make a good impression despite Ashira assuring her that it was ok to make mistakes on her first day. With her back turned to the entrance, she didn't see the newcomers but called out automatically, "Welcome in!"

Inuyasha, not paying much attention, saw a sudden glance of long black hair and he immediately saw red, assuming the greeting came from someone he knew all too well. "Kikyou, what the hell do you want now?" he barked, his voice loud enough to turn a few heads.

Kagome straightened up, startled by the outburst. She turned around, her brown eyes wide with surprise. "Excuse me?”

Inuyasha blinked, momentarily thrown off by the unfamiliar voice. He looked up and his eyes met Kagome's fiery gaze. The resemblance to Kikyou was uncanny, but there was something different about this girl—something warmer, more vibrant.

"Who the hell are you?" he demanded, his tone still rough but less certain.

‘Oh Kami give me strength.’ she prayed inwardly, trying not to make a scene. "Excuse me?” She repeated. “Who wants to know," she replied, crossing her arms over her chest.

“The one asking, wench” Inuyasha replied his stubbornness getting the best out of him not willing to admit his mistake.

Her eyes narrowed harder, matching his stubbornness and attitude, manners begone. “The name’s Kagome,” She leaves her previous position and approaches the counter, pressing her palms down on the counter and leaning towards him in a boastful voice. “And who the hell do you think you are, coming in here and yelling at people? If you want service in this cafe, you better watch your attitude, mister." Gold meets brown in an even-matched eye contact.

Miroku, ever the mediator, stepped in with a charming smile. "Hi there! Kagome, is it? Please forgive my friend, he's having a bit of a rough day."

Kagome's expression softened slightly at Miroku's polite demeanor, but she wasn't ready to let Inuyasha off the hook just yet. "A rough day doesn't give him the right to be a jerk," she retorted, turning her glare back to Inuyasha.

Inuyasha's scowl deepened. "Look wench, I thought you were someone else, alright? Just drop it."

Kagome huffed and laughed in disbelief, clearly unimpressed. "It's Kagome. Ka-go-me! Not wench and Maybe you should think about that before you speak next time."

Before the situation could escalate further, another customer walked in, diverting Kagome's attention. She gave Inuyasha one last pointed look before walking towards them to take the new customer's order.

Miroku chuckled softly. "Well, that was interesting. She’d definitely put you in your place."

Inuyasha grumbled something under his breath but didn't argue. Instead, he watched Kagome from the corner of his eye as she interacted with the customers, her smile warm and genuine. It was a stark contrast to Kikyou's often aloof demeanor and from their previous interaction just 2 minutes ago.

As the café settled back into its usual rhythm, Inuyasha found himself unable to focus on anything other than the strange, fiery girl who had just told him off. He didn't know why, but something about her intrigued him.

When the café quieted down again, Kagome took a deep breath and blew out the tension in her body. Her eyes zoned in on the table of two that occupied Inuyasha and Miroku. She initially procrastinated approaching their table due to another random rush of customers, but it was her job after all. With a hint of curiosity in her eyes, she walked over. "So, are you two going to order something, or just take up space?"

Miroku smiled. "We'll have two coffees, please. And maybe a slice of that strawberry cake."

Kagome nodded, jotting down the order. "Coming right up."

As she walked away, Inuyasha couldn't help but watch her, his mind a whirl of confusion and curiosity. He didn't know what it was about Kagome, but he had a feeling this wasn't the last time their paths would cross.

Minutes later, Kagome returned with their order, setting the coffee and cake down on the table. "Here you go," she said, her tone more neutral but still holding a hint of the earlier annoyance.

"Thanks," Miroku said warmly. Inuyasha muttered a gruff thanks as well, still feeling slightly off-balance.

Kagome gave him a brief nod before heading back to the counter. As she worked, she found herself sneaking glances at the silver-haired, brash-talking customer. There was something about him that piqued her curiosity despite his rough demeanor.

As the day wore on, the café began to empty, and Kagome found herself with another moment to breathe. She glanced over at Inuyasha and Miroku's table, noticing that they were still there, talking quietly.

‘He was rude, loud, and disrespectful. She thought to herself with renewed annoyance, and then with a sigh, she proclaimed to herself, ‘Well my behavior wasn’t a 5-star either no matter how much I felt he deserved it.’ She concluded, always one for leading by example. Taking a deep inhale and exhale breath, she decided to approach them once more. She saw his ear twitch the closer she got to their table, signaling that he was aware of her approaching presence. Her fingers twitched in a sudden desire to feel them and pet them. Odd. Arriving she took a beat and spoke, “Listen," she said, standing by their table, drawing their attention. "I know we got off on the wrong foot earlier. And I'm sorry if I was a bit….harsh."

Inuyasha looked up, his expression softening just a fraction. "Yeah, well, I shouldn't have assumed you were Kikyou. Sorry about that."

Kagome smiled slightly, her earlier irritation fading. "Apology accepted.” Curiosity getting the best of her since he did ruin her afternoon, after all. ” So, you had a fight with an ex?"

Inuyasha sighed, running a hand through his hair. "Yeah, something like that. It's complicated."

Kagome nodded, understanding the sentiment. "Breakups are never easy. But maybe a fresh start isn't such a bad thing."

They locked eye contact for a moment and the air slightly shifted. He can't explain it; he’s not sure what it is, but this feels…different. Inuyasha glanced at her once more, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Maybe you're right."

Miroku watched the exchange with a knowing smile, glad to see his friend finally opening up a little. "Well, it's a start," he murmured.

As Kagome returned to her duties, Inuyasha found himself feeling a bit lighter. Maybe, just maybe, this summer would turn out better than he expected. And perhaps the fiery girl at the Shikon Café would have something to do with that.

[catindabag]

TBOSAS on Crack short take (69)

*Code names are for losers*

Festus: Yo, guys-

Lysistrata: Not now, Creed.

Festus: Just hear me out.

Sejanus: Bro, be quiet. Someone might hear us.

Festus: It’s very important.

Coryo: No. We’re going to do our history homework today-

Festus: Really, Coryo? Inside the school gymnasium?

Coryo: Unfortunately.

Festus: But you could always finish that stupid paper tomorrow-

Coryo: Professor Demigloss said that whoever passes their homework first gets a day off from school.

Festus: But it’s the middle of the night and we are about to commit a crime against Dr. Gaul!

Coryo: Creed, calm down. It’s not the end of the world. We’re just here to steal that crazy woman’s plans for this year’s Hunger Games.

Festus: Which is a crime! A dangerous crime!

Coryo: That we’ve all agreed to commit together.

Sejanus: And forever.😍

Io: I’m so excited! This is my first time committing such a heinous act! I feel so rebellious-

Vipsania: Don’t say that word. It’s forbidden.

Io: Rebellious.☺️

Vipsania: *gasp* She said it again!

Coryo: We’ll be fine.

Festus: But still!

Coryo: I don’t care. I’m getting that day off with my boyfriend.

Sejanus: Me and Coryo are going to go on a super secret romantic date. Afterwards, we’re going to-

Lysistrata: F*ck.

Sejanus: Obviously.

Coryo: This is why we shouldn’t finish each other’s sentences.

Festus: You two are going on a secret romantic date without me?!

Coryo: Fortunately.

Festus: But I want to go on that date too!

Hilarius: Can I join? I wanna take some cute candid photos of Coryo-

Coryo: Ew. No. Go away.

Hilarius: I’ll give you 20 bucks.

Coryo: Not enough.

Festus: How about we all go on a double date instead!

Coryo: A double date with who?

Festus: With me and Percy-

Hilarius: And me!😀

Sejanus: No! My Snowy and I need our ✨alone time✨ too!

Coryo: We’re going to-

Felix: F*ck. We know.

Festus: But I wanna go on a date with you guys!😫

Felix: Bro, lower your voice. No one knows we’re here, remember?

Festus: But-

Androcles: Shhhh! Do you hear that?

Coryo: Hear what?

Androcles: I think I heard someone or something squeaking-

Festus: That’s just my precious Odysseus.

Androcles: Who’s Odysseus?

Festus: My freaky pet rat.

Vipsania: Creed, I told you not to bring your ugly fat rat to school!

Festus: Sickle, my bro, don’t be like that. My Ody just wanted to run around and get some fresh air. That’s all.

Vipsania: Not inside the school gymnasium! I workout, eat, and sleep here for Panem’s sake!

Felix: Ney Ney, why do you even live here? Last time I checked, you and your super buff family live in a huge luxurious house that looks like a gym.

Vipsania: Yeah. However, my very competitive and delusion mother kicked me out last year.😞

Felix: Why? What did you do?

Vipsania: She thinks that I’m an enemy of the state for having more track and field medals than her. So she kicked me out.

Gaius: That’s wild, bro.

Domitia: Girl, your mother’s insane.

Hilarius: My parents kicked me out too. Now I live in a dumpster with Creed and his rats.😊

Festus: You don’t even pay rent.😒

Hilarius: I will. . . Someday.

Pup: How the mighty have fallen.

Florus: Sorrows and prayers.

Hilarius: Thanks-

Florus: Not you, Heavensbee. I’m giving my condolences to Ney Ney.

Vipsania: I’m fine. Don’t worry about me. I still have my auntie Sickle.

Festus: Anyways-

Coryo: Babe, what’s the answer to question 7?

Sejanus: Read it for me, my love.😍

Coryo: Who is the current mayor of District 2?

Sejanus: Mr. Rocky Rock O’Rolly.

Coryo: Thanks, Babe.

Lysistrata: Is he a good person?

Sejanus: Mr. O’Rolly is not even a person. He’s just a piece of rock.

Lysistrata: Like literally?

Sejanus: He’s very solid.

Lysistrata: So a piece of rock is currently the mayor of District 2.

Sejanus: He’s been the mayor since we were in grade school.

Gaius: And nobody said anything?!

Dennis: Bro, where did your people even find Mr. Rocky Rock O’Rolly?

Sejanus: A random hobo found him “sitting” inside a cave 4 days before the election.

Urban: Who the f*ck would vote for a piece of rock?

Sejanus: Don’t judge my District! They’re trying their best!

Urban: To ruin their lives!

Coryo: Canville, shut up. We don’t have the right to judge them.

Urban: I can judge whoever I want!

Coryo: We literally voted a fluffy fat cat to be our official Capitol Mayor a few months ago.

Urban: But to be fair, Boa Bell is a good Mayor.

Sejanus: Mr. Rocky Rock O’Rolly is also a good Mayor, Ban Ban!

Urban: Is he cute?

Sejanus: No. He’s an ugly rock.

Urban: Can he respond back to you?

Sejanus: No.😞

Urban: That’s what I thought.

Pup: But don’t forget, the true leaders of Panem are a bunch of dogs.

Felix: They’re not just an ordinary bunch of dogs though. They’re-

Pup: A “sacred” pack of Bichon Frisé puppies. We get it.

Clemensia: Pup, does it bother you that your father is taking orders from a literal fur baby?

Pup: No. He loves it.

Festus: But seriously, guys-

Everyone: Creed, no.

Festus: Creed, yes!

Coryo: Ugh. Fine! Fire away.

Festus: Yey! So I was thinking-

Persephone: We’re now thinking?

Festus: No, not really. But since we’re going to stop the Hunger Games forever and save our Tributes from killing each other, we should start with creating our ✨code names✨.

Coryo: Code names?

Festus: Yeah! Code names like Class Pres-

Felix: “Class Pres” is not a code name, Creed. It’s short for Class President.

Festus: Yeah, right. Whatever you say, Class Pres.

Io: I’m with Creed on this one. Having code names are fun!

Juno: For what?

Io: For ✨Operation Felix✨!

Livia: Ew. Code names are for losers. I’m going with ✨Sparkly Sparkly 123✨.

Festus: That’s too long. Make it shorter.

Livia: Fine.🙄 I’m ✨Hot Pink✨.

Palmyra: I’m Monty-

Festus: No. you can’t have “obvious” code names.

Palmyra: Ok. I’m Palmyra-

Festus: Ugh! You guys are so bad at this.

Palmyra: But I’m Palmyra Monty-

Festus: I’ve decided that I’ll be the one to give you guys your code names.

Felix: That’s not fair-

Festus: Felix, you’ll be Hello Kitty.

Felix: I do love Hello Kitty.

Festus: Coryo, you’re Cabbage Soup.

Coryo: What?!

Festus: Sejanus, you’ll be Sugar Daddy.

Sejanus: Coryo’s sugar daddy.🥰

Festus: Palmyra, you’ll be Deadly Pie.

Palmyra: I’m Monty-

Festus: Livia, we all know you’re Hot Pink.

Livia: Obviously.

Festus: Florus, you can be Introvert John.

Florus: That- that actually makes sense.

Festus: Jasper, you’ll be Nuclear Lover.

Io: Ok!😊

Festus: Urban-

Urban: No.

Festus: You’re Anger Issues.

Urban: F*ck you.

Festus: Percy, you’re-

Persephone: Cannibal.☺️

Festus: No.

Coryo: She’s Cannibal, Creed. Deal with it.

Festus: Fine. Dennis, you’ll be Illegal Man Juan.

Dennis: Nice!

Festus: Iphigenia, you’re Super Mart.

Iphigenia: Isn’t that obvious?

Festus: Fine. You can be Skeletor.

Iphigenia: But-

Festus: Apollo, you’ll be Sunshine Valley.

Apollo: Yey!

Festus: Diana-

Diana: I’m Moony!

Festus: Ok. Ney Ney, you’re Buff Baby.

Vipsania: I can live with that.

Festus: Pup, you’ll be Commando Sleeper.

Pup: Cool.

Festus: Juno, you’re-

Juno: Princess Peach.

Festus: Princess B*tch?

Juno: Princess Peach, dumbass!

Festus: Fine! You’re Princess Witch! Happy?!

Juno: Like I care.🙄

Festus: Hilari, you’re-

Hilarius: Queen Bee! I’ll be Queen Bee!

Festus: Fine. Gaius, you’ll be-

Gaius: Zoolander!

Felix: That doesn’t make sense.

Gaius: My family owns the zoo.

Felix: That still doesn’t make sense-

Festus: Zoolander it is.

Gaius: That’s right!

Festus: Andie, you’ll be Catch Me If You Can.

Androcles: Nice!

Festus: Tia, you’re-

Domitia: Cheese Maiden!

Festus: Why?

Domitia: My family sells cheese.

Festus: Your family sells milk-

Domitia: And the best cheese.

Festus: Right. Arachne, you’re- Where’s Arachne?

Coryo: She’s asleep.

Festus: Good. She’ll be Spoon On My Nose.

Clemensia: She won’t like that-

Festus: She’s Spoon On My Nose. End of story.

Clemensia: She’ll kill you.

Festus: She won’t. Clemmie, you’ll be Blood Orange.

Clemensia: I rather be-

Festus: Blood Orange, do you copy?

Clemensia: Copy?

Festus: Good! Lizzie, you’ll be Droug Deleour-

Lysistrata: That’s too obvious! Call me something else.

Festus: Drug Delecour?

Lysistrata: Let’s stick with Droug Deleour. I’m Droug Deleour.

Felix: How about you, Creed? What’s your code name?

Festus: I’m-

Livia: Garbage?

Juno: Dumbass!

Dennis: Rat Boy!

Coryo: Cheesecake!

Sejanus: Burger!

Festus: No! I’m Eagle One!

Everyone: Heck, no!

Festus: Fine. I’ll go with Garbage Man 123.😔

[randomshyperson]

Wanda Maximoff Needs a Hug - Chapter Two - Series

Summary: Since joining the team, Wanda Maximoff has captured all of your attention, even if she has no idea about this. In a six-part story, you'll do your best to give her everything she needs and maybe she never thought she deserved it. Along the way, you two might end up realizing you were in love with each other the whole time.

Warnings: (+18), Friends to lovers, smut in the last few chapters, slow burn, conversations about self-love and individual worth, mentions of anxiety, past trauma, avengers being a family, canon-fix, a lot of magic. Words: 5.246k

General Masterlist || Series Masterlist || AO3 || Wattpad

--//--

Chapter Two - Wanda Maximoff needs a therapist

"I'm not hungry."

It would be strange to say that you knew she hadn't eaten anything for at least 12 hours, because you were sure it would look like you were monitoring her, and it was the complete opposite of that. You noticed her, it was different.

Shifting the weight of your feet hesitantly, you put down the tray of food. "Okay. Can I still eat next to you, though?"

It’s Wanda's turn to hesitate. She doesn't want to send you out, to block you off. She really doesn't want to. But today, it's officially been six months since Pietro was dead, and she wasn't feeling the least bit sociable.

Still, you stared with puppy dog eyes, and Wanda was giving you space to get in before she even thought about it.

You didn't eat quietly - You filled the silence of the room with as many things as you could talk about. About the team, about work, about television. Every joke was an attempt to make her smile, and it was only at the first laugh that Wanda began to cry.

"God, I'm so sorry, I'm such a mess." She tried to disguise her own tears, wiping her face with the sleeve of her blouse and evading your gaze. But you moved away from the table and knelt in front of her on the carpet. Gentle hands on her knees.

"Talk to me." You asked in a whisper. "I'm right here for you."

Wanda collapsed. She doesn't think she had ever cried so hard, not since Pietro was gone. She just couldn't stop - He was gone and it was forever. Nothing would ever change that. And with each passing day, she seemed to miss him more. She wondered when it would get better, and you, holding her in bed against your chest, hands caressing her back until she stopped sobbing, said it wouldn't.

"I'm sorry." You said immediately. "There is no magic formula. You lose someone, and the pain gets numbed with time, but it never goes away. The thing is, you're not going to face it alone anymore. I'm right here."

She sobs. "What happens when I lose you too?"

You huff softly. "I'm fucking immortal, what are you talking about?" You tease, managing to make her laugh past the crying. She hides her face in your collarbone, perhaps it's closer than a friend should get, yet neither of you makes any mention of pulling away. A moment later, you comment, "If you want, we can go to the memorial. Pay tribute to him."

Wanda nods, exhaustion falling on her body, forcing her to fall asleep. "Thank you." She whispers and is asleep before she hears your reply.

It's not difficult to get released from the missions to go to Sokovia next weekend. Wanda has the impression that you have blackmailed someone.

In fact, the country no longer exists. It is a very sad trip for her, despite your thoughtfulness.

Everything she knew was gone, and now all that was left was a black stone with the names of the victims. It took her almost ten minutes to find her brother's.

The words she muttered were not so familiar to you, and with your hands in the pockets of the thick coat you were wearing, you waited for Wanda to finish her prayers before commenting:

"I didn't know you were a religious person."

She gives you a sad smile, instinctively intertwining her arm with yours, and you don't mind one bit. "I'm not, but our parents were. Jewish. Pietro tried to follow their faith for a while, but when you grow up in the midst of war, orphanage to orphanage, sometimes you lose your connection to that kind of thing."

You blink in surprise at the information, but nod in understanding. Walking side by side down the old street, you let Wanda guide you to a coffee shop you saw on the way.

"What do you want to do now?" You ask, once inside, sitting at a table in the back.

Wanda smiles sadly. "I think I just want to lie down and not move."

You swallow dryly, hands moving to hers on the table. "I think you should talk to someone."

Wanda frowns in confusion, "I'm talking to you."

You stroke her fingers, drawing patterns that shiver her skin. If you notice, you don't say anything. 

"I meant..." You almost hesitate, not wanting to press too far. But Wanda has been your friend for six months now, and you care enough to say. "I'll always be here, of course, but I don't know what to say very often. You should talk to someone, a professional, who will."

Wanda is surprised, really. She doesn't have any kind of prejudice toward therapy, it just never occurred to her, especially due to the way she grew up. No one had time to listen to any of her anxieties in the midst of an armed conflict. 

The possibility of solving her problems sounded almost absurd. It made her laugh with nervousness.

"What? Like... therapy?" She needed to confirm, and you nodded immediately.

"I did it for a while, I really needed it." You counter. "You know Sam has a veterans support group, right? We've all been through some pretty bad shit, Wands. It's important to deal with it in a healthy way. Natasha was in intensive therapy for a long time after the Red Room, and so was Steve when he got off the ice. Tony and Clint do follow-ups to this day for PTSD."

Wanda gathers her hands from yours, suddenly very exposed. Very vulnerable. "I don't...I don't think that's a good idea."

You don't push. Never. Instead, you smile at her and nod. "All right then. Let's order some breakfast."

But when you get back to the compound, the same day at the quinjet, Wanda calls you before you go to your room.

"Thank you, for today." She murmurs sincerely, taking a deep breath before adding. "About your suggestion, I'll think about it."

You move closer again, and hold her by the shoulders, before kissing her forehead, and then each cheek. Sweet and firm, and it makes her skin prickle, her chest warm. Wanda almost melts against you, static and afraid to move and causing you to pull away. Her fists clenched at her sides. 

"I'm here for whatever you need, Wands."  You assure her, and it's a good thing you leave after that because Wanda has the impression that she would do something stupid if you remained that close.

–//–

Therapy is strange for the first few weeks.

Her doctor is very kind and is part of Shield which is a good thing because she has experience with special agents who have dealt with death on a daily basis. And well, sad pasts are not lacking for war heroes.

Wanda thinks she might be getting better when she buys some Jewish items for her room.

"Maybe I should get a haircut." Your phrase immediately attracts her attention. You are in her room, helping her with the cleaning. Or rather, Wanda is cleaning and you are getting in the way and looking annoyingly pretty while doing it.

"Why?" she asks confused and curious, using magic to lift a couch. She's tidying up because it was your idea of a room that had her whole personality, and Wanda simply accepted that she didn't know how to say no to your ideas.

"Because I'm a secret agent, of course!" You retort as if it were obvious, your elbows propped up on her bed. "Black Widows change their appearance all the time, you know. Nat told me. And I'm supposed to preserve my secret identity."

"You don't have a secret identity." Wanda retorts. "You literally tell everyone that you are the Iron Angel. Yesterday we went to buy bread and you introduced yourself like that."

"Okay, first of all, rude." You sit down on the bed indignantly. "I was trying to get us a discount!"

"With bread?" 

"I'm a poor person, Wanda!" At this point, both of you were chuckling. She grumbles for you to stop getting in the way of her cleaning, throwing a pillow at you, and consequently losing concentration on the air-raised couch, which makes a loud noise when it falls. 

"Tsk, let me help you, little witch." You tease, leaving the bed and hooking your sleeves up. Wanda rolls her eyes.

"I'm not a witch."

You laugh. "Debatable, pretty girl. All you do is these magic tricks. And who uses magic? That's right, witches."

Wanda rolls her eyes, definitely unable to have this discussion, or any when you lift the couch with one hand. Muscles flexed and exposed by the short, tight shirt.

Something inside her boils, right at the pit of her stomach.

Maybe she's getting sick.

"Earth to Wanda." She blinks embarrassedly away when she notices you calling her. You chuckle, thinking she has been distracted by the cleaning. "Shall we get something to eat later? I think it's Steve's night to cook and he's terrible at it. Want to grab a pizza with me, maybe go to a movie?"

That screams date energy, and Wanda agrees before actually thinking about it. You offer her a wink, pleased with the confirmation, and go back to talking to her normally as if Wanda isn't hyperventilating over the amount of exposed skin on your stomach when you keep holding the couch up in the air and gesticulating as you tell stories.

If she survived the afternoon of cleaning, she might survive the date. Of friends.

—//—

Apparently, you enjoyed Wanda's company as much as she enjoyed yours. 

It was a good thing and eventually turned movie nights into a recurring event. Wanda sometimes forgot how shy and introverted you could be outside the tower - with the Avengers, who were your family, you were comfortable and always making jokes with everyone. Outside, fumbling with simple matters like ordering in a cafeteria reminded Wanda that you had in fact grown up in a laboratory.

She was just happy to follow whatever schedule you were comfortable with, more or fewer days outside or under the covers, what mattered was if you were together. 

And it didn't take long for you to grow practically inseparable. It was almost strange to think that when she first arrived at the Compound, Wanda barely exchanged two syllables with you, and now, she sleeps in your room practically every night.

The thing about intimacy, though, is that it included sharing. Even subjects that make you cranky.

"I just have a connection with him." Wanda half-heartedly justifies herself, because you are, again, muttering about the strange interest she had in Vision. 

Wanda thinks it's because you don't trust machines - After Dr. Zola, she couldn't blame you. But if anyone asked any Avenger why you didn't like Vision, none of them would think Zola was the reason.

You hum at her justification, and Wanda huffs softly. "What's the problem? You always act so weirdly about this."

You frown. "Oh, I'm sorry I don't like your new best friend."

Wanda crosses her arms. "Don't be silly, Vision is not my best friend. You are." Your gaze begrudgingly softens over Wanda's sweetness. She smiles at your insistent pout. "Is that what this is about, then? You're jealous of Vision."

You huff indignantly, leaving the small pile of blankets on her bed where you were chatting in a jump. "Jealous? Now you're the one being silly!" You retort, cheeks softly rosy. Wanda stares at you in surprise at the scene. "You can have as many friends as you want, I don't care."

She looks away, uncrossing her arms to play with the loose threads of the mattress. "I don't, though." She mumbles half sadly, shrugging when you look at her with confusion. "I don't really have any other friends, Y/N."

The anger unravels at once from your chest, and you sigh, crawling back onto the bed. "Nonsense. Everyone loves you because you're amazing." You retort, getting a weak laugh from her. You lean over her, nose brushing her cheek, and Wanda holds her breath, but it is only an affectionate gesture, and soon, you are on top of her, face on her collarbone and weight on her body. Arms around her, keeping her pinned on the bed and your body. Warm and safe. "Everyone here is your friend. Don't forget that, Wan. The Avengers are your family. I am your family."

She feels something burn behind her eyes. For so long, the only family she had was Pietro, and she lost him too. And now, she had this group of people she could lose as well. Terrifying, honestly. And the thought of losing you made her hold you tighter.

"I don't like fighting with you." She confesses, and you chuckle softly.

"We weren't fighting, I was just jealous." Your admission brings butterflies to her stomach, but she masks it with a giggle. "Don't mind me. Be friends with Vision, he could use some company."

You may have said it for real at that moment, but it didn't mean you made living with Vision any friendlier, given that at every opportunity you responded to him with rude storms, and interrupted any moment Wanda might have with the synthesized. She didn't mind, your company was always welcome, but he might have been annoyed. But who cares about Vision anyway?

While your relationship with the synthesized didn't improve, you nevertheless worked to make Wanda's relationship better with other Avengers.

For Natasha, Clint and Steve there was no need to try too hard - The three of them were very affectionate towards Wanda, and patronized her naturally. Always teaching her as much as they could and keeping her company.

For Sam, it was easy too, because he was a very sociable gentleman who was available for almost every movie night. He was also easily impressed by Wanda's magic, and it was some sort of fresh air to be around someone who hadn't fought her and didn't have any bad memories about Ultron.

Tony was the tricky one. You were trying to convince him to apologize to Wanda, without being awkward or forced, and he was not a person who dealt very well with the past. Much like your friend honestly.

It was a coincidence that Wanda had a session in therapy about forgiving and moving on the same day Tony approached her in the kitchen with a tablet in hand that he placed on the counter next to the glass of juice she had just picked up.

The team stood in absolute silence, watching the interaction from the breakfast table.

"Maximoff, I want to talk to you." He announced seriously, one hand in his pocket. Wanda frowned slightly.

"Okay." She muttered. Tony took a deep breath, bringing his attention to the tablet and on it, clicking so that a small hologram of data appeared in the air. It was several numbers and Wanda figured it was for some mission. But Tony cleared his throat and explained:

"These are the shipping lots for all the Stark companies' ballistic supply." He begins. "It took some time to gather everything, but it's here. In 99, one shipment went to Sokovia. Lot 7212, collected from the rubble of a civilian building. Authorization to sell, Obadiah Stane."

Wanda crosses her arms, uncomfortable. "Stark, what is all this? Why are you bringing this up now?" She asks, looking away from the holograms of the exploded bomb, collected from a building she knows well.

Tony takes a deep breath, and faces her, "I was a different person, Wanda. I didn't care about any of it, all I wanted to do was spent my money. I didn't know what was going on at Stark companies, the war funding. I stopped that when I discovered it." He blurts out. "But, yes, I designed those weapons. And I have a share of guilt for ignoring my responsibility to them. And I want to apologize for that because my negligence caused the death of your parents."

Wanda looks down, with tears in her eyes. The other Avengers exchange tense looks and Tony swallows dryly, taking a step closer.

"I know nothing I say will change things, but I wanted to say it anyway. You're part of the Avengers now, you have my loyalty. Maybe, someday, we could even be friends." Wanda raises her eyes, returning his small smile with another.

She sighs and nods. "Thank you, Tony. For apologizing. It doesn't change things, but still... thank you."

"Of course, kiddo." He offers her a gentle tap on the shoulder before collecting the tablet and leaving the kitchen.

Wanda steals a glance at you at the table, and you smile at her in assurance before she too leaves the kitchen.

Nat is the first to speak. "Was anyone else surprised at how mature Tony was about everything?"

The Avengers laugh and go back to eating, and you keep to yourself the last two weeks you've been nagging Stark about it.

It was interesting, that less than two weeks later, Tony was the person assigned to teach Wanda to fly.

The thing is, Sam had iron wings - so he flew differently than Wanda could. And well, you wouldn't fly if you could help it because you hated heights. Yes, Wanda couldn't miss an opportunity to tease you about that. So it was left to Tony and his armor.

"You can focus your magic on your hands, like the way it works on my suit." He guided alongside her in the outer courtyard, with the whole team watching. "And keep your feet together to stay balanced. This way. Try it."

It took a few tries for Wanda to successfully glide a few inches off the ground, but it wouldn't be long before she could fly more effectively.

It was you who tried to find out if she could focus magic on other parts of her body.

The question must have come out in a strange way because it made Wanda look at you curiously, her cheeks half rosy, and the odd expression of Steve and Natasha pausing their practice behind her made you clear your throat.

"I mean you use your hands during the fighting, right?" You try to explain further. "You could try focusing your magic on the soles of your feet, to fly. And then you would have your hands free."

"Oh, I get it." She mutters. "I could try, but I don't think it would make that much difference. I control my magic mentally; It flows around my whole body, even if my hands are busy."

"You always impress me, Maximoff." You praise naturally, missing the way she smiles shyly because you are stepping closer to Nat and Steve's tatami. "And Captain Rogers keeps missing out on the same strike. How sad."

Steve frowns in confusion, "What strike?" He asks, and his distraction momentarily is enough for Nat to hit his legs and knock him down. Laughing as you do. "Very funny, ladies." He complains from the floor, but you are already waving for Wanda to follow you to the next tatami.

By now, she has grown more confident in fighting you, knowing that she won't hurt you. 

"You need some new tricks." You tease between one punch and another, half as breathless as she is. Nat has improved - considerably - Wanda's hand-to-hand combat, and well, you don't mind a bit exchanging a few punches with her. Mixed fights with magic are just as perilous as they are fun. 

Wanda laughs, deflecting five of your blows in a row with precision, before managing to grab your wrist. She's not physically stronger, by any means, and Hydra's description is that you're like a war tank, so in theory, she couldn't take you down. But her magic does the hard work, pushing your legs apart. You are thrown by her shoulders, falling backward onto the tatami. 

"I think I'm doing fine." She confidently retorts, offering you a cocky wink, before offering her hand to help you stand.

But you move your feet instead, and knock her to the ground as well, wasting no time in mounting her, immobilizing her hands. 

"You can't get cocky in a fight, that's a beginner's mistake." You recall. Wanda struggles against the grip, without any success. War tank after all, and when focused, you simply absorb any magic she tries to use on you. "You're fighting well, Maximoff. But what if you didn't even need to engage in conflict?"

She frowns, impressed that she could keep her gaze on yours when you are so close. "What do you mean?"

You lick your lips, it's your turn to be distracted by the position. Whatever is going on is completely broken with Steve and Natasha approaching the tatami, and the widow speaking before you:

"She means mind tricks, Wanda." Says the widow, and the witch hesitates immediately. You sigh, letting go of her arms, and acting way too casual when still sitting on her hip.

"Wanda is powerful, she shouldn't waste her abilities." You try, but all three of you are unsure about it.

"Hydra taught her that sort of thing. It's not a clean way to fight." Steve says, and you grimace indignantly.

"Clean? What's that supposed to mean?"

Steve sighs. "I just meant it would be an unfair fight. It's not that there's anything wrong with her powers, Y/N. It's just that it feels wrong to act like that, it's like mental torture. You don't know how it feels because Wanda never used it on you."

Wanda looks away, embarrassed. You snort indignantly. 

"That's fucking hypocrisy, Captain Rogers." You declare angrily, standing up. "You think you have some short of honor in shooting people instead of bewitching them? You're fooling yourself that's what." You continue, ignoring his attempt to explain. "Wanda is the strongest among us, and you are impairing her potential for greatness out of fear! She should not fear who she is!"

"Y/N, that's not what we're trying to do-"

"Then let me teach her!" You cut him off. "I'll take responsibility. I trust her. I can teach her to do more than Hydra did. Hell, she can get inside someone's head. The possibilities are endless! She could end any fight before she even starts them!"

Steve hesitates, but Nat rests her hands on the supports of the tatami, looking at the girl sitting on the floor. 

"What do you think, Wanda?"

The witch looks at your confident and curious gaze, and then at Steve Rogers' hesitation. She sighs and hugs her knees.

"I trust Y/N. If she teaches me, I could try to learn."

You celebrate softly, ignoring Steve's protest. Natasha smiles at you. "Just be careful, okay? I don't want anyone getting hurt."

You twitch your nose, glancing at Wanda over your shoulder. "Don't be silly, Nat. Wanda would never hurt me."

–//–

"I'm still learning to trust people again. But she is my safe haven. I don't know what I would do if I messed that up."

The confession surprises herself as much as it surprises Dr.Christina Raynor, who stops writing to raise her eyes to Wanda.

"You have a history of loss, Wanda. It's normal to hesitate and worry that it will happen again. But you need to trust that you will be able to handle it. With my help, of course. But also with the help of others, because you are no longer on your own. Death is part of life, it is a painful truth. You can learn to deal with it in a healthy way."

Wanda nodded, unsure if she could manage that at all. That day she told about starting to practice mind tricks with you next week, and how anxious it was making her. Christina reminded her that she could refuse if she was uncomfortable with the idea, but she explained that it was about the possibility of hurting you, not about her magic. The doctor asked her to act as was best for her, and not for other people.

And so, Wanda was late for her first class.

You decided to create a comfortable setting for her. Soft armchairs on the balcony, overlooking the whole compound, and a table of sweets and drinks on the side.

It felt almost like a picnic together and made Wanda's stomach churn when she remembered what she could do with you.

"Hey, little witch, I almost thought you weren't coming." You tease about the fifteen-minute delay, getting a small smile from her. "And it would be, all right, okay? If you didn't show up. We don't have to do anything you don't want to do."

"It's fine." She assures as she swallows dryly, and moves closer to occupy the empty armchair in front of you. "I want to learn more about myself."

"Speaking of which, I have gifts." You state raising a finger in the air for a moment. You lean over to grab something from behind the armchair, and Wanda watches you take out books that you place on the coffee table. "Hydra had a dozen or so files on the stone, but nothing really helps us. I did my own research, and it turns out that there are a lot of people who do cool tricks. There's a bit about telekinesis here and traditional witchcraft. High chances that it's all fake, but it's better than nothing."

Wanda simply leans over and hugs you by the neck, really tight. It's so sweet, the way you care for her. She murmurs about it and your response makes her swallow dryly.

"That's what friends are for." You whisper, and she lets you go. "Shall we begin?"

She nods, confused about the conflicting emotions in her stomach. 

You place your hands on your thighs looking up at her in anticipation before giving an awkward chuckle. "Well, I suppose it's you who has to start sweetheart. I'm only here to serve. I mean. not serve, like help-"

She laughs at your nervousness, raising her hand to your face. "Shush now, darling, relax." She asks gently, appreciating the way you shut up immediately, swallowing dryly. So obedient. Her magic leaves her fingertips when she touches your eyelids. "Show me your fear."

You choke, eyes glowing red like hers as your surroundings transform.

Wanda feels different - It is your abilities, she assumes. You can absorb her magic, so in a way you are allowing for what she sees, creating and maintaining the connection. She thinks to ask about it to confirm but shuts up at what she sees.

It is the compound, completely destroyed. And there are bodies lined up that she recognizes as the team. You are crawling in the grass, blood and dirt mingling in your torn iron suit. The man on the hill, Wanda doesn't know.

"You did well, puppet." He praises, turning around. Wanda does know him, she realizes. She has seen Dr.Zola's pictures in some reports before. "Our own angel of death, bringing Hydra's vengeance on these traitors."

You cough, blood on the grass. Wanda narrows her eyes and recognizes herself in the row of bodies. You are trying to touch her, but Zola steps on your fingers. 

"That's not my name." You gasp in a sob, looking at the man, "I wouldn't hurt my family."

"But I am your family, Y/N. And you have hurt me, haven't you?"

The illusion is transformed, but you and Zola remain at the center. What was once the destroyed compound is transformed into a laboratory room. Steve and Nat, now alive, help another version of you on a stretcher with chains. The day of your escape.

"How could you destroy me, child? After all I've taught you." Zola questions, also watching your memory, the way you destroyed every piece of metal that make up the computer. "I created you, and you turned your back on me for them."

The memory turns again, to before Wanda. Your early, strange, awkward years with the Avengers and Shield. Until Hydra's influence was out of your head, and you could live with them. The nasty jokes from agents, the strange looks. Flashes of painful memories that make her sick

"That's enough." You say from the floor and repeat until Wanda realizes that Zola and you are looking directly at her. You are talking to her, not to him. "That's enough, Wands. Please."

She panted, her memories getting faster all around. "I-I don't know how to stop, I don't-"

Your eyes glitter. "Show me your fear then."

The destruction returns, but this time it is a civilian apartment. Wanda chokes on a sob, hugging her own body.

She can hear someone crying, a little girl. Under the table.

"I don't want to see this again. Please, let's come back." She asks into the empty room, and it shouldn't take you half a second to stumble up behind her, holding her by the shoulders, but Wanda feels like it took forever.

You hug her, letting her hide her face in your collarbone, and your gaze goes around. "It was here, wasn't it? When they died?"

"Y/N, please...."

"I'm not doing anything, Wan." You mutter. "It's your magic, remember? I don't control it. I just gave it back. You have to control it." You explain, rubbing her back. 

Wanda takes a deep breath, lets her arms wrap around your body, and ignores the sound of the bomb ringing in your ears. You hug her tightly. "Concentrate. Get us out of here, take us somewhere nice."

You have to close your eyes a few times to get used to the clarity of the next illusion. It is the beach, and it makes you chuckle lightly.

"What...?"

"I used to go swimming with my family when I was a kid. When it was safe." She confesses as she turns away from your collarbone, and you can see a family running into the water in the distance.

You smile at her. "I'll take you to the beach, Wands. In real life, so you can have new memories."

She nods, refusing to let go of you. "I could stay here a little longer."

You frown slightly. It's a dangerous thought because it's an illusion. A memory. Wanda shouldn't be stuck in it, she should move on. Stay with you.

"Let's go back. We've practiced enough today."

She hesitates, the sound of her mother's laughter, lifting a smiling 7-year-old Pietro under a wave making her hesitate.

"B-but..."

"Now, Wands." You insist so seriously that she swallows dryly. But your gaze softens, and your hand is warm on her cheek. "We'll make a blanket fort in your room today. We can sleep side by side and watch some TV series. What do you think?"

Paradise, she would say. And before you need confirmation, the illusion is shattered and you are back on the balcony of the complex. Both of you were half out of breath, blinking confusedly at the new brightness.

"That was..."

"Fucking incredible!" You declare with a laugh, surprising her with your excitement. "You have the most amazing skills! And that was just the first day, imagine what you'll be able to do when you master this mind stuff completely! Damn, that was wonderful. Come on, I promised you a movie night."

You are pulling her by the hand before she can protest, not that Wanda was thinking of doing so anyway.

[talkintrashcann]

Campout - Xavier Thorpe [pt. 2]

summary: the friendgroup is going on a camping trip and miscalculated how many tents they needed, so now you have to share a tent with your least favorite person.

warnings: slow burn, enemies to lovers, multiple parts

word count: 1.4k

a/n: everyone has really been demanding part two so here it is, might not be what everyone wants but i promise i got a lot more stuff up my sleeve for the next couple parts

[part 1] [part 3] [part 4] . . .

——————

As soon as the sun started to appear from behind the horizon the sunshine of the group was wide awake and ready for another day, playing loud music to wake everyone else up. She opened all the tents and peaked inside to see if anyone was still asleep, singing along with the songs that were playing at the top of her lungs. You let out a loud groan as you heard her pulling at the zipper of your tent, Enid looking at you with a wide grin as she saw how you and Xavier were laying as far away from each other as possible.

"Time to wake up lovebirds, we're on a tight schedule so we have absolutely no time to waste."

She wasn't joking when she said you were on a tight schedule today, during breakfast that day she explained her very detailed planning of the next couple of days. This was really starting to feel a little bit like a bootcamp, today already having a very tiring activity waiting for the group. Hiking. You didn't mind it actually, you quite enjoyed walking through the woods up a mountain. But with these extreme temperatures it sure was going to be a bit more challenging than you preferred. What kept you motivated was the very promising view that would make up for it, according to Enid at least.

"Keep it moving guys ! We're almost there.", the girl with an endless amount of energy yelled out. She was hopping up and down, clearly excited to reach our destination.

"She's been saying that for the past hour or so, I don't understand how she isn't exhausted like the rest of us. Does she ever get tired?", the boy with the beanie on replied while wiping the sweat off his forehead. He must be dying with that thing on his head, you thought to yourself.

You were too busy with your thoughts that you weren't paying attention to where you were going, accidentally stepping on an unstable rock and twisting your ankle. Just as you were about to hit the ground, the person behind you wrapped their arm around your waist to keep you from falling.

"Are you okay?", the all too familiar voice said in a surprisingly worried tone. Finally looking up to meet the eyes that match to that voice, your eyes locking with Xavier's. It felt like things were going in slowmotion for a minute. No one said anything and everyone was standing still to look at you, waiting for you to answer his question. Once you both realized how close you were standing to each other you quickly pushed the other away with disgust, looking the opposite direction.

"Im fine, I didn't need your help."

"Most people would say thank you but whatever, should've just let you fall down the mountain."

"Why didn't you, huh? How come you suddenly care about me falling down a mountain or not? Wouldn't you love seeing that happen, knowing it would hurt so much."

"Where's the fun in seeing you suffer if I'm not the one that caused it?"

You rolled your eyes at his comment, slightly limping as you continue the incredibly long climb. All you wanted was for this suffocating tension to go away and finally see the pretty view that was promised to you hours ago. For the rest of the climb, it was uncomfortably silent. No one dared to say a word after your little encounter with Xavier, everyone wanted this to go over quickly. Their prayers were answered once they reached the promised destination, and the view was absolutely breathtaking.

You could see the lake near your campsite from up here, the tall trees completely surrounding it. The reflection of the sunlight on certain spots made the lake appear to have multiple shades of green, some lighter and some darker shades. As you were admiring the sight, you could hear a camera flashing right next to you. Looking to see who made the sound, the smile that was plastered on your face a few seconds ago immediately disappeared. Xavier was taking pictures of his surrounding to use for his paintings later. He had visions sometimes but he wanted to remember every detail about momens like these, at least that's what he said on his way here. Although he was planning on using them to paint back home, he also used it as an excuse to take pictures of his friends too so he can remember the fun times they had here.

"Time for a picnic!", Enid snapped everyone out of their trance by opening up a picnic blanket and placing it on the ground. Eventually the blanket was getting covered with some of the food and drinks you had prepared in the morning, the group enjoying their sandwiches in complete silence. The only thing you could hear was the sound of a river somewhere near you and the birds singing up in the trees, it definitely helped calming you down after your little encounter with Xavier. He had also found something to get his mind off your discussion earlier, being focused on taking pictures of his friends while they were chatting with each other.

As he's looking through the lens of his camera, he finds himself taking a picture of you. Once he realizes what he just did he shook his head and put the camera away, convincing himself he only took that photo because he thought the background was beautiful. He'd never admit how pretty you actually were, but no matter how many times he would call you ugly to your face or behind your back it always felt wrong. Many people found you good-looking, he was the only one to disagree. But the question is, why was he so eager to deny that?

After finishing up your little picnic and making your way down to camp again, everyone was knocked out in their tents by now. They needed to recuperate for a while because of the very exhausted activity they just got back from. You on the other hand were resting in one of the hammocks while making a bracelet, not wanting to share your tent with mister douchebag during the day as well. But while you were focused on the strings in your hands, you didn't notice someone sneaking up behind you. Soon enough you were aware of their presence as you felt a a stream of cold water being squirted on the side of your head, causing you the squeak at the sensation You could already tell who it was without having to look behind you, his annoying laughter confirming the speculation. You snapped your head back to look at the culprit, seeing him stand there with a watergun in his hands and the biggest smug face you've ever seen. Getting up from your spot and picking up one of the pillows from the hammock, you aimed it at his face but unfortunately he was able to dodge it.

"You really gotta stop hitting me with pillows, you know they don't hurt right?", he chuckled while squirting a little water at you again. You knew he was testing your patience right now, but you have had it with him.

"Fine, I'll just use my fists then."

Before he could properly process what you just said you stormed towards him and tackled him down, his head hitting the hard ground. He let out a laugh when you positioned yourself on top of his chest, finding it amusing that you thought you could hold him down. You were about to punch him in his face, but right before you were gonna smack him he gripped your small fist in his large hand to stop you from doing so. His smug face returning while he flipped you over, holding both of your hands above your head with one of his hands.

"Not gonna lie, you didn't look that bad on top of me.", Xavier chuckled when he saw your angry expression. But that annoying smile he had on soon disappeared as you kicked him in the nuts with your knee, resulting in him letting go of your hands and instead going down to his precious manhood.

"DO I SERIOUSLY HAVE TO PUT BOTH OF YOU IN TIMEOUT RIGHT NOW?! What is this, fucking summer camp with a bunch of annoying 10 year olds?", Enid had to yell out once again. You shoved him off you and got up on your two feet again, walking back to your hammock as if nothing happened. She really was starting to regret bringing the two of you on this vacation, it was beginning to feel more like she was babysitting you instead of a nice relaxing outing with her friends. Luckily that would soon all change when the neverending war between you and Xavier might finally come to an end. Or will it stay like this forever?

To be continued . . .

——————

Taglist !¡ @wintrr13 @hayleematyas16 @deepblueoceanwaters @purexfuego @loriasposts

if you would like to be added to the taglist for campout please let me know in the comments or through asks/dms!

[possibilistfanfiction]

WN prompt: glass

even your faith has been shaken; your prayers harnessed into something painful and powerful, something that had been used to harm people you've grown to love.

but, still — there are more things in this universe and the next than you'll ever be able to understand. you believe in good, still, after everything; faith.

you set aside time in your day to pray — gratitude and consecration, as best you can. the cathedral still fills you with reverence, grand and sweeping and beautiful. usually, you're alone, when you come in the middle of the day, but today you open the door silently and pause.

ava and beatrice are sitting together, silently, in a pew in the middle of the space. beatrice has her head on ava's shoulder, her hair loose and light, and she must say something because ava's shoulders shake with quiet laughter; she kisses beatrice's forehead.

they've been back at cat's cradle for a few days — mother superion, it's good to see you, beatrice had said, still so formal, when she'd gotten back, ava's hand on the small of her back like a lifeline, like a tether, and you'd waited a moment before taking her into your arms and hugging her tight — the best of all of you.

the afternoon sun lilts through the stained glass, now, beatrice's arm around ava's back, resting on the back of the pew. she sits up, a little, so she can look at ava, and runs her thumb along the space between ava's shoulder blades, a little absentmindedly, like she does it all the time. they're both in sweaters as the weather gets cooler.

you clear your throat to let them know you're there, although there's a part of you that doesn't want to interrupt: ava had come back for beatrice, that much you're sure of.

but they both turn and smile, blues and yellows washing over their skin like the night sky, beautiful. you wish things were different; you wish they could've just stayed in california and been young and in love, where you could visit and reprimand beatrice for having one too many glasses of wine and act surprised when they tell you they're engaged one day; you wish that you weren't sending them both off on what feels, a little, like some kind of holy suicide mission — again.

but ava smiles, and beatrice inclines her head in your direction, a quiet sense of duty on her shoulders, visible.

'we're not doing anything blasphemous,' ava says.

you share a look with beatrice, who is blushing but rolls her eyes. you sigh a long suffering sigh because you must, but, really, you wouldn't have cared so much if they were.

'i am here to pray.'

'we can leave you to it,' beatrice says, tugging a little on ava's hand as she stands up. 'we were just, well —'

'— hiding,' ava says, laughs brightly. 'we were hiding from the new recruits.'

'they're — they are a little intense,' beatrice says, 'wanting to talk to ava.'

'they're incompetent,' you say, which is kind of true but you can also understand wanting to know about a girl-god who came back from hell, or heaven, or something different entirely, to her love, to fight a holy war for it.

beatrice stifles a laugh and ava grins.

'it's fine,' ava says. 'bea's just jealous she's not also a celebrity.'

'oh, absolutely not,' beatrice says. 'my nightmare.'

'sure, sure.'

'okay,' you say, 'i am going to pray now. you're welcome to stay or leave, whichever you want.'

'we'll see you at dinner,' beatrice says.

'you can take it in my office, if you'd like.'

ava fist bumps and beatrice laughs. 'oh, thank god.'

[grandeoatmilklatte]

Even On My Worst Days ☁️

Yet another Weasley Wednesday post! This week's theme was Quidditch. I tried to do something a little different this time, so this one has more angst and fluff, but there's still some smut at the end.

Trigger warning here for anxiety, panic attacks, and negative self talk!

Smut/NSFW 18+! Characters are aged up and in 7th year! Do not read if you are under 18!!

Even On My Worst Days - Garreth Weasley x Gryffindor Female MC

2.2k words

Summary - MC has been having a horrible day that only gets worse with an upcoming Quidditch game. Thankfully, Garreth is around to make her feel better.

_____

“Can this day get any worse!?” MC asked no one in particular as she paced around the Gryffindor common room, earning her odd looks from her house mates. Today was turning out to be a terrible day for her, and she feared it was only going to get worse. 

She had woken up much later than she should have this morning with a splitting headache, after barely having slept the night before. She ended up being late to her first class, feeling quite embarrassed about it. In the chaos of the morning, she had also forgotten she was supposed to help Poppy with some Beasts class work. Her bad luck didn’t stop there, as MC later on failed a test she thought she had prepared well for, and her lunch didn’t settle right in her stomach, forcing her to spend her free period in bed writhing in pain. Worst of all, there was a Quidditch game tonight, Gryffindor vs. Slytherin, and she didn’t feel the slightest bit prepared for it. Her anxiety was at an all time high today. 

“You got this, sweetheart! You’re one of the best seekers we’ve had in years!” Garreth had told her as he sat on the edge of her bed earlier, various potions at the ready to help with his girlfriend’s issues. Garreth had a point, MC was good. She didn’t think she was the best, per say, but still pretty damn good. However, the rough day she had experienced so far was doing her confidence no favors. 

And now here she was, having a panic attack in the common room on her way down to the Quidditch pitch. Her headache and stomach ache had subsided thanks to her boyfriend’s potions skills, but Garreth had nothing in his arsenal that could help her with the anxiety she was left with. 

She made her way outside, and took note of the fog that overtook the sky above her. “Great.” She thought to herself. “Another thing to worry about.” She had found Garreth and the rest of the team down by the pitch. He could tell right away that she was off, and wrapped his arms around her waist to pull her into an embrace. “Darling, I know you’ve been having a bad day, but you can do this! Just focus on the game. It’ll be okay!” He planted a soft kiss on her forehead. 

Although she knew he meant well, his words frustrated her. It was so easy for him to say that. He played the Keeper position, which he did excellently, and while his position was still very important on the team, it didn’t hold the same weight hers did. She could make or break the game. And while this fact normally motivated her, it was terrifying her now. All she could do was smile at Garreth, a smile that didn’t reach her eyes, as she wrapped her arms around him and kissed him, hoping that the taste of his lips could bring her some kind of good luck. 

—--

The game probably should have been canceled with the fog, as it has only gotten worse as the game progressed. Now, the game had been going on for quite some time, neither seeker having located the coveted Snitch yet, likely due to the limited visibility. MC eyes darted around the air, desperate to find the blasted thing so maybe her anxiety could finally go away. For a moment, it seemed as though her prayers were answered, as she caught a flash of gold in the corner of her eye. She darted for it, the other seeker hot on her tail noticing it too. But her bad luck had not subsided, as she followed the Snitch through a cloud of fog, losing it a second later, the fog too thick to see where it went. She panicked, and once again her eyes darted around trying to find it. She could make out the silhouette of her opponent through the fog, not moving. Suddenly, her opponent sped off, MC speeding off in the same direction. But the other seeker was too fast for MC, catching the Snitch and ending the game.  

MC was devastated. A horrible ending to a horrible day. MC said nothing to anyone as she stormed off to the changing rooms once she was back on the ground. Her teammates were understanding that you can’t win every single game, but the problem was MC. She was already very hard on herself in everything she did, but she was being extra hard on herself now with the stress of the day she had been having. MC locked herself in one of the changing stalls and began to cry, ignoring the concerned questions from her teammates. 

She sat on the floor of the stall, knees to her chest, breathing heavily and slightly rocking back and forth. Her soft cries quickly turned to loud sobs and her shoulders felt heavy. She also felt a crushing pain throughout her whole body, like she was going to shatter into pieces any moment now, and her throat felt like it was closing up, leaving her struggling to breathe. 

MC felt so useless and incompetent. Her teammates and classmates looked up to her, and now she had embarrassed herself in front of not only them, but Garreth as well. She wasn’t a good student, nor a good seeker, and sometimes she worried she wasn’t even a good friend or good girlfriend. She wasn’t good at anything. She didn’t belong anywhere. The fact that anyone put any faith in her was a mistake. She wanted nothing more than to hide in this bathroom forever, never having to face anyone or their expectations for her ever again. 

____

After what felt like hours, but was only actually about 30 minutes, MC exited the changing stall, eyes puffy and voice hoarse from her sobbing. Her eyes went straight ahead to the pitch. All her other teammates had left, and the pitch was entirely empty, the spectators already having left. The fog had long since cleared up, and it was just starting to get dark. MC sighed and was going to begin a slow trek back to her dorm when a familiar voice stopped her. 

“You okay, love?” Garreth asked softly, standing up from a spot he had been sitting in off to the side of the changing rooms. He didn’t give her a chance to reply, pulling her into a gentle embrace. This gesture made her tears begin to fall again, MC nuzzling into his chest. “I’m a failure. I hate myself. I’m not good at ANYTHING. I don’t deserve to be on this team and I don’t deserve to be at this school. I’m completely worthless!” she choked out between her sobs. 

Garreth let MC out of his embrace in order to put his hands on her shoulders, gently pushing her out so he could look her in the eyes. “No. Please don’t say things like that.” He pulled her back in to plant a soft, gentle kiss on her lips, before pushing her back out again. “I know today was hard. Not everyday is going to be easy, but that doesn’t make you a failure, and it certainly doesn’t make you worthless. You mean the world to me MC.” There was a crack in Garreth’s voice, as if he himself was about to start crying. “It hurts to hear the way you talk about yourself. You’re the most amazing girl I've ever met. You’re always willing to help those around you, you’re kind and caring, you’re smart, you’re the bravest girl I’ve ever met, and as Gryffindors that’s saying something! You’re beautiful…and you’ve got an amazing ass!” He chuckled as he said this, eliciting a small giggle out of her as well. “You’re the best girlfriend a guy can ask for. I…I love you.”He finally looked away from MC when he said this, his eyes darting towards the ground. 

It felt like MC’s heart had stopped. She and Garreth had only been dating for about 6 months now, finally getting the courage to do so at the beginning of their 7th year. They both felt love for each other, but neither one had been brave enough to actually utter those words. MC started to sob once again, but this time her tears were not brought on by her anxiety. “I love you too, Garreth! I’m sorry for being so hard on myself. It’s hard not to be with everything everyone expects from me.”

“It’s okay sweetheart! I understand. But you don’t have to be so hard on yourself. It’s okay to make mistakes and not be perfect. That doesn’t make you worthless or broken.” Garreth gave her a soft smile, and MC smiled back, throwing her arms around Garreth, melting into the warmth of his body. “Come sweetheart, let’s relax for a moment. I know you’ve had a rough day.” While MC still had her arms around Garreth’s neck, Garreth bent down slightly and put his hands under her thighs so that he could pick her up in his arms and carry her. He was easily able to pick her up and carry her the short distance back to the Quidditch field. 

MC assumed it was dinnertime, hence the quiet and lack of students out and about. When they made it onto the field, Garreth placed her down onto the grass, and sat himself down. “The stars look beautiful from here. Come lie with me.” She joined him on the ground, the two of them lying down together. They stared at the stars that peppered the sky, bright and sparkly. Garreth held MC’s hand while they laid there, and they laid there in silence, enjoying the sky and each other’s company. 

Eventually, MC sat up, wanting to take a break from admiring the stars to admire Garreth instead. He was still in his Quidditch uniform, which made him look absolutely delicious. His uniform hugged his muscles so beautifully, and his ginger locks were messy from lying in the grass, a few blades of grass already peppering his hair. His green eyes seemed to sparkle in the moonlight. She began to fantasize about the times she would watch him during practice and gameplay, thinking about how hot and sweaty he would get. She then thought about all the times they shagged afterwards, MC kissing and licking the sweat off Garreth’s neck as he slammed into her, her back up against the wall of the tiny broom storage closet they had a habit of fucking in. Her feelings of anxiety had now changed into feelings of lust. 

Garreth had noticed that MC was sitting up staring at him. “Everything alright, love?” He asked with a smile on his face. MC smiled right back as she straddled him. He responded with a look of confusion, but the confused look only lasted for half a second before it changed into a wicked smile. MC began to undo his pants, not removing them entirely, but pulling them down enough that he sprung free, his length already hard. He had an impressive length, and like the rest of his body, it was covered in freckles. She took him in her hand, giving him a soft squeeze before she began to pump him. The groan he let out was sinful.

It only took a few strokes for wetness to start forming on his tip. MC planted a kiss on the freckle that resided on his tip, before swiping her tongue across his tip and taking him into her mouth. He let out a loud moan as he hit the back of her throat. Her eyes were becoming teary as she willed herself not to gag. The noises coming from Garreth were feral as MC sucked him. “Oh baby, that feels so good! Please don’t stop!” Garreth cried out as MC watched his eyes roll back. MC continued working Garreth, eager to get a release out of him as he moaned his appreciation. His hands flew into her hair as he took control of her movements, gripping her hair to move her head up and down on his length. 

After a few more minutes and a few more groans from Garreth, he reached his climax, releasing his warm liquid into MCs mouth with a growl. She let out a muffled moan as she swallowed him down. “Oh shit darling! That was amazing!” He whimpered. MC released Garreth with a “pop” sound and nuzzled into his chest, listening to Garreth’s breaths as they returned to normal. “Consider that my way of thanking you!” MC said with a wink, seemingly back to normal. 

Once Garreth caught his breath, he sat up, staring at MC with adoration in his eyes. “I love you MC. You are an incredible person, and anytime you feel less than that, know that I’m here for you, and I’ll do everything I can to make you feel better.” He flashed her a bright smile, his words and smile making her heart flutter. “I love you too, Garreth. Thank you for loving me. Even on my worst days.” She closed her eyes and smiled, Garreth smiling back at her.

They continued to lay there well into the night, basking in the afterglow of each other. Her anxiety had finally faded, being replaced with nothing but feelings of pure bliss.

____

[jessicaaatje]

Quoting Song Lyrics

Reader x uswnt (platonic)

Summary: Reader starts quoting song lyrics...

A/n: So instead of making a whole incorrect quotes series of reader quoting song lyrics, I decided to make just a fic of it. The incorrect quotes can you find here and here. It comes from a prompt list that you can find here.

Enjoy!

Practice was hard today. Somehow you laid more on the grass then that you were standing, and that for a practice. Two things kept you from storming off the field right now.

Thing one was that you almost knew for certain that you would start in the next game, if you would leave the training now, you don't even think you would be playing the next game.

Thing two was that the one song you listened to before you came on the field was keeping you up. The thing was when you listened to your music, you knew that when your headphones were off, you would be stuck with the songs you heard, and that was now the problem.

Again, you hit the ground, you decided to lay for a second more. 'I'm a survivor', you mumbled behind your breath. Apparently, Tobin decided to bring you to the ground, but she was nice enough to help you up, meanwhile hearing you mutter something.

'Did you say something?', she asked. You Shaked your head in reply, but you said nonetheless thank you.

You were lucky it wasn't a day where one of you got mic'd up, because if your teammates found out that you were quoting song lyrics in practice, you knew they would always remember.

'I'm not gonna give up', you continued, hoping that you won't hit the turf much more before training would end. And it seems like somebody heard your prayers, because practice has ended, and you didn't eat any more grass.

It was time for you to go back to the locker rooms, you walked next to Ashley Sanchez, but it was not your intention to let you hear your next sentence: 'Nobody said it was easy, no one ever said it would be so hard', what you didn't expect was that Ashley heard you and needed to smother her laughter when she realized you were quoting "The Scientist" from Coldplay.

Ashley was smart enough to keep her mouth shut and not to say anything if she wanted to hear you quote a song once again.

Now arrived at the locker room you sat in your cube, next to Emily Sonnett. If she caught you quoting any song lyrics, you knew your teasing free life would end. You had some more songs in your head, and your mouth just couldn't keep shut.

'I found it hard, was hard to find, oh well, whatever, never mind', this time it was time for Nirvana.

'Oh my god, y/n, are you quoting a song?', you were doomed when you heard this sentence come out of the mouth of Sonnett. You wanted to go through the floor now, because Sonnett got the attention of most of the girls who were in ear range.

And still your mouth couldn't keep shut, while you were shaking your head you said accidently: 'I feel stupid and contagious'.

'If you are quoting lyrics now, were you doing that also on the field when I helped you up?', Tobin asked. 'Sadly', you mumbled in response.

'I know you love to listen to music, but does this mean you can sing also?', somebody asked.

'I'm worse at what I do best', was your reply while shrugging your shoulders.

'Are you saying now that you say that your bad in soccer or in singing?', Christen scolded you for saying something like this.

'Singing', you said.

'I think you can sing really good', Mallory Pugh chimed in, 'why don't you let us hear more?'

'Because I just can't sing', your reply was fast. Grabbing your stuff to head to the bus.

------

Who thought it was smart to play a board game with 24 people? But for you it was much better then to play truth or dare or watch a horror movie. So somebody thought it was fun to play yatzee and it was finally your turn.

The dices were given to you and here it came. You were thanks to a lucky roll on the winning side.

'I used to roll the dice, feel the fear in my enemy's eyes', you sang, ''viva la vida'' was one of your favourite songs from Coldplay and you knew the song all too well. Next thing you knew was that you felt something itch.

You looked around and saw Rose, with only one shoe on, the item that hurt you was her other shoe.

'Stop it please, or I will throw a book at you', Rose said trying to send you a glare.

'I'm sorry I can't help myself', you threw your hands up, but only to take the cookie roll the winner would get, and you had won obviously.

[orangeaurora]

Steve Harrington | “I’m Here”

masterlist→

Summary: Let’s just say your best friend Steve Harrington isn’t as good at hiding how in love he is with you as he thinks he is. You’re not feeling your best and call Steve to come over to help you and he gladly obliges.

word count: 1692

warnings: just some cussing here and there, nothing bad though. sick reader, sappy steve. I think that’s it :)

A/N: I wrote this cause I’m sick right now and would kill to have a hug from Steve Harrington. Hope you all enjoy, happy reading. :)

————————————————————————

It was a cold winter day with cloudy skies and was forecasted to rain all day long. This was a day that you would usually take advantage of. Cuddle up by the window with your favorite blanket, hot chocolate beside you with your favorite book in hand. But no, not today. When you woke up, you felt like complete and utter shit. You would usually be okay with feeling a little under the weather, but this time was different. Your family members had already left for the day, leading their busy lives and you knew you couldn’t call your parents and ask one of them to come take care of you. So, you took a lucky shot and called the local video store, Family Video, to see if either of your beloved best friends were working and if they could point you in the right direction of the other. It was rare that Steve and Robin both worked the same shift on a weekday, so you were hoping that today was one of those occasions.

As the phone rang, you whispered under your breath that you hoped Robin was the one who picked up. As much as you loved her and enjoyed her company, you wanted the comfort of Steve Harrington more than anything at that moment. To your surprise, as if the universe answered your prayers, you hear a very bored voice pick up the phone, “Thank you for calling Family Video, I’m Robin, how can I help you?” Oh thank god. “Robin, it’s me, Y/N,” you could immediately hear the tone in Robin’s voice change and you could hear her smiling through the phone. “Dingus number two! How are you? You don’t sound like yourself. Everything okay?” She questioned you as you could hear concern behind her excited tone. “No, actually. I woke up this morning and I feel so sick. I don’t know, I think I have a fever? I’m home alone and I was hoping that you or Steve weren’t working so you could come help me?” I could hear her giggle over the phone, “Oh don’t sound so helpless yet Y/N, yeah I’m working but Steve is off today! How about you call him at home? I’ve got customers staring me down like they’re gonna kill me if I don’t help them soon.” She said between her teeth. You let out a heavy sigh of relief. “Y-yeah, I’ll call Steve, thank you, Robin, love you.” Your voice was soft, thankful that this phone call went exactly as you wanted it to. “No problem, feel better, yeah? I’LL BE RIGHT WITH YOU, okay I gotta go, I love you too. Byeeeee.” You heard your phone line beep, indicating that Robin ended the call and you started dialing Steve’s number.

“Hello?” A very groggy voice comes from the other end. “S-Steve? It’s Y/N, did I wake you?” Steve’s voice changed when he heard your voice the same way that Robin’s did only a few minutes ago. “Hey, you! I may or may not have been asleep still,” he sighed, almost embarrassed that he was sleeping. You laughed. “It’s okay, Stevie,” before you could finish what you were saying, Steve interrupted you. “Are you okay? You sound sick.” He must have heard your voice that is currently much deeper than your natural voice is. Tears started to form in your eyes as you realized how sick you actually felt. “N-no. Are you busy today? I feel like shit, I don’t think I could even get up to get water right now.” Steve’s heart cracked with every word you spoke, “Hey, hey don’t cry, it’ll only make it worse. There’s no way I’m gonna let my girl dehydrate okay? I’ll be there in ten and don’t cry anymore!” You heard the phone hang up and sighed, you felt at peace knowing Steve was going to be by your side soon.

Knock knock knock. Steve got to your house in a perfect 10 minutes and waited at your door in the rain until you managed to get out of bed. His palms were wet holding a bouquet of flowers for you that were from his mom’s garden. He couldn’t tell if it was from the rain or how sweaty his palms were at the moment. You made him so nervous. After all these years, King Steve just couldn’t get over how in love he was with you, though he’d never admit it. Robin and Dustin have tried countless times to trick him into a confession, but he has never given in. He loved you too much to allow himself to ruin the relationship the two of you already had. He couldn’t imagine a life without you in it, even if that meant you couldn’t be his. You finally opened up the door and felt like you looked pathetic. Steve smiled at you and you heard the smallest “oh, baby” leave his lips as he walked inside and pulled you into a hug. The hug was so warm, it was everything you needed. When he let go, you missed his touch instantly and then you saw the flowers in his hands. “Oh, Stevie, they’re beautiful! A shame I can’t smell them right now.” You pout, wishing your day with Steve was under different circumstances.

“I’ll put them in a vase, you go sit down and get under a blanket, I can see your goosebumps from a mile away.” Steve said as he pointed to the couch in your living room. You nodded your head in agreement and walked towards the couch. But, as you did, Steve couldn’t keep his eyes off of you. The way you wobbled and moved so slowly in order to make it to the couch. Why aren’t you helping her? Steve cursed himself out from under his breath as he quickly filled up a vase with water and plopped the flowers in it. “Do you need anything before I come sit down with you? How about that water you mentioned on the phone?” Steve asked as he peeked his head around the corner, with all your might you were able to push out a “yes please.” and Steve’s head disappeared from behind the wall and in only a few seconds he was back with a glass full of cold ice water.

Steve sat the cup down on the coffee table in front of you before he found his spot next to you on the couch. You started to sit up to make room for him but he shook his head, “No, no baby, here, lay your head on my lap.” You gladly followed his directions and got comfortable on Steve’s lap and his hands found your hair immediately and started brushing his fingers through it. “Thank god you came Steve, I almost called the kids. I was desperate.” Steve chuckled, “The last thing you need right now is a bunch of boys running around your house. Can you even imagine Dustin trying to help someone that’s sick??” You laughed with him, “No, but I think Will and Max could manage. Maybe even El. Oh what I’d do to have powers like that girl. I could’ve just used some cool telekinesis to make myself a glass of water.” Steve let out a tiny laugh, the one where only air comes out of your nose,

“But then I wouldn’t be here.” Your heart skipped a beat. He was right. As much as you didn’t want to be a burden to your friends, the company of your best friend was like no other. “Thank you for coming, Steve, I really needed this.” He smiled down at you “anything for my girl.” Steve Harrington knew exactly how to give you butterflies, and you did the same to him. He thought you looked ethereal right now in his lap and wished that he could take a picture of you. Though, he didn’t really need it because every moment like this with you sticks into that boy’s head. He wanted to tell you how he felt about you right then and there, it would be perfect, he thought to himself, but when he opened his mouth to speak, you beat him to it. “You’re so good to me, Stevie,” he could’ve shed a tear at your words, “I truly don’t deserve it.” Steve shook his head, “No, Y/N, you deserve the world.” You two stared into each other’s eyes for a few moments until Steve accidentally said it, the forbidden words that should have never left his lips

“I love you,” he froze. He didn’t mean to say them, “like, like as friends ya know, like love ya, cause we have known each other so long and you and Robin say it to each other and”- You were smiling the biggest, cheekiest smile ever and cut your best friend off, “I love you too, Steve.” And with just those words, Steve’s body finally relaxed under you, “You-you do? Like in the way you love Robin? Or a, I don’t know, a different way?” You managed to push yourself up off of Steve’s lap so you were sitting next to him, face to face, faces closer than they ever have been before.

“Oh Steve Harrington, if I wasn’t so sick I would kiss you right now just to shut you up,” You said through laughter. Steve looked at you in shock and you were waiting for him to say something as you grabbed his hand and interlocked your fingers with his. “Yes, Steve, I love you in a different way.” And there was the confirmation he needed, he didn’t care that you were sick, he cupped your face in his hands and crashed his lips onto yours. The kiss was eager, but soft at the same time. He was trying to be as gentle as possible with you, but you could feel how long he had been waiting to do this. When he finally pulled away, you were able to catch your breath. “Great, now you’ll be sick.” You said, Steve rested his forehead on yours, smiled and said, “I don’t care.”

[transmascaraa]

dahlia headcannons!

you've been in mondstadt for a while now, visiting a friend, and that deacon friend prepared something just for you...

crush!dahlia x gn!reader ft. venti, rosaria(jean and barbara mentioned once)

author's note: omg i'm not dead guys😝 btw happy orthodox christmas to the ones that celebrate it<3 anyways i finally got the motivation to write this dahlia confession hcs thing(it's a coincidence that it's today) so i hope you guys like it idk🤷

"thank you, Lord Barbatos, for making my wish come true."

-dahlia has been friends with you ever since you started visiting the Mondstadt church and you've made his heart skip a beat right then and there

-so he knew he was in love

-but he didn't know how to tell you

-nevermind, he wouldn't even tell you-if venti didn't interfere

-venti already knew that dahlia was in love with you, by his actions around you

-so he wanted to help

-he told him what to do, and even made up a whole church meeting about how Barbatos(definitely not venti himself) thought that the two of you would be perfect.

-rosaria knew it from the start, despite dahlia once trying to tell her about his crush but she just said that she knew.

-so the two of them set up that church meeting one day, hoping you would come, too.

-and that day finally came.

-every seat was taken/reserved, just the one next to dahlia was empty.

-he was sweating.

-he was nervous.

-he could hear his own heartbeat in the silence of the church.

-and you finally arrived.

-walking up to his seat

-"hey dahlia, can i sit here?" you didn't even look around to see if there were any other seats available.

-"oh, hey [name], sure!" his heart beating even faster.

-the two of you waited, until it started.

-venti raised his hand, wanting to say something to everyone.

-so he got up and stood at the altar(help is it called an altar)

-"so, dear people of Mondstadt, including me. i have some predictions and assumptions about you. if you'll allow me, i'll start." (their literal god without them knowing lmao)

-"first, you, rosaria, will have a friend of yours who will go through a really happy time." and rosaria nodded, with a wink, letting him know that it's according to plan.

-"jean, you will finally get a break from work. it will last at least a week." she nodded to him.

-"barbara, Barbatos will answer your prayers soon." and like that, he called out different people, until he got to dahlia and you.

-"and finally, the two of you... hmm... i see the two of you walking hand in hand out of this church! a couple! a perfect pair! don't you all agree? it's almost as if Barbatos himself made the two of you for eachother!" he said confidently, looking at everyone to confirm.

-everyone nodded and your face was covered in a red hue, hiding your face behind your hands, embarrassed.

-"u-uhm..." dahlia was blushing hard, also hiding his face, but behind his hat that he took off.

-"so, are the two of you gonna get together? i feel like both of you have feelings towards eachother! i need you guys to confirm, so i know do i make more assumptions like this or not!" venti was so impatient to see you say yes to him, knowing you told venti himself that you liked dahlia.

-"y-you first..." dahlia stuttered, looking at you with his eyes peeking above the hat.

-"uhm... a-as long as he wants to, i-i'll accept it..." you said as you blushed even more, but still trying to stay calm while looking back at venti.

-"so, dahlia, do you want to?" venti winked at him discreetly.

-"i-i do..." he said as he looked up at venti, trying to be confident, but failed miserably.

-"great, then it's settled! that's all i had to say, thank you all for coming to this church meeting just because of me! may Barbatos bless you all! have a good day everyone!" he exclaimed as he went back to rosaria to talk with her a bit, wanting to spy on the two of you, waiting for everyone to leave.

-"s-so... a-are we together now?" you whispered to him, still feeling embarrassed.

-"i-if you want to... i-i really do like you..." he looked down, feeling shy.

-"i accept, dahlia." you took his hand and kissed his cheek, leading him out of the church.

-he was flabbergasted.

-that whole moment, and you accepting his confession.

-that kiss...

-thank Lord Barbatos...

~~~~~

WOAH I FINALLY DID IT.

honestly i pretty much like this one but the next one will probably be with m!reader idk

i love dahlia so much he's so cute

[clickerflight]

Struggle for Aldoria: Part 1

Storm the Castle

My new story!

Content: Human whumpees, bloody nose, face slam, kingdom takeover, dragged by the hair. This one is chill, the next part won't be so chill >:3

Overlord Post (all whump)

............................................

There were so many people at the cookout that Toruk had to force his way through the crowd to reach his mother, who was manning the food table. 

“There you are!” Halia called when she saw her son, still wearing his palace armband as he approached. “I was just starting to get worried about you.”

Toruk laughed, pushing through a cluster of his aunts to reach his mother as he said, “What do you mean? I’m right on time. I didn’t think everyone would be here already.”

“Oh, you know how your father is,” Halia said. “He just couldn’t wait to start, and you know how hard it is to stop him.”

Toruk snorted, remembering many times as a kind being woken up at the crack of dawn for something that wouldn’t start until noon. “That I do.”

Halia snorted and said, “Now get changed and go see if he needs help in the kitchen. He’ll be glad to see you made it.”

“Thanks, maman,” Toruk said, untying his armband and putting it in his bag as he headed into the house. His father looked up from where he was ladeling the sauce over the pheasant one more time before bringing it out and he cheered when he saw his eldest child, throwing open his free arm so Toruk could come in for a side hug. 

“There you are, Tory,” Jallie said with a huge grin. “How was work?”

“Pretty good,” Toruk said, getting a hug in and then stepping back to pull off his long vest, setting it on the table before grabbing a platter of fruit to take outside. “We had a situation in the south storeroom today, though. Someone left one of the outer doors open overnight so we spent all day trying to chase the mice out because no one knew where the minks or their trainer were. I personally think the trainer was out drinking. He’s really been slacking since his wife left him.”

“Trainer? Kortin of the Red house?”

“That’s the one.”

Jallie clicked his tongue. “I heard about that one. Well, you’re here now and you can forget about it all and stuff yourself silly.”

“That is certainly what I intend to do,” Toruk said as the two stepped out into the evening air and put the food down for his cousins to set upon like a pack of starving wolves.

“Now, now!” Halia called over. “Let’s say a proper thanks.”

The cousins, through completely full mouths, managed an approximation of the thankful song for the forest spirits that helped grow the food they were eating before they grabbed even more. 

Jallie rolled his eyes at his nieces and nephews before loading himself a plate alongside Toruk. 

“So, I heard there’s been some unrest at the palace. Is it true?” he asked carefully, and though he was quiet, Toruk could sense some of his aunties staring into their backs, listening in. 

Toruk bit his lip, thinking. “Well, it is only a rumor, but I think something is going on.”

“So it’s true,” Auntie Kirsty said, leaning in across the table from where she had been loading a plate for the youngest of her set of kids.

“I don’t know the extent of it,” Toruk said with a shrug. “But we have been stocking the storerooms as full as we can, and I caught sight of the Prince today. He looked worried. Really worried.”

“I’m sure it will be fine,” Jallie said soothingly. “They haven’t made any announcements yet so it couldn’t be too awful, whatever it is. Just keep doing your part, Toruk.”

Toruk nodded. “I will. And I’ll let you all know if I hear anything else.”

Auntie Kirsty reached over and patted his arm and said, “That truely is appreciated, Tory.”

The three, now finished with loading their plates, sang the thankfulness prayer, holding up their plates to their foreheads as was proper, Auntie Kirsty’s youngest chirping along to words that she still couldn’t really mimic yet. 

…………………….

Toruk opened his eyes, glowering at the inside of his blanket as he heard the loud chimes in the streets. The morning chimes that were set up to help people make it to work with plenty of time to spare, and it’s a good thing too. He definitely would have slept in if his headache had anything to say about it. He overdid it on the wine the night before as darkness spread and stories were told around the family bonfire. He slowly sat up, rubbing his eyes before standing and locating his clothing. He slipped on his tunic and trousers, finding the golden rope that would tie around his waist and proclaim him to be a worker in the castle. 

There was a soft knock on his door as he tore his bed apart looking for his vest and the door opened. 

“Hello, Tory,” Halia said, his vest folded in her arms.

“Oh, thank you, maman,” he said, coming over and pressing a kiss to her forehead. 

She hummed at him and said, “Would you like something for your head?”

“Yeah,” he said with a sheepish smile, pulling his vest on as she pulled out some fresh sprigs of herbs for him to chew on. 

“Have a good day at the castle today, my seedling,” she said, pulled him into a hug. 

“I will. Good luck in the forests,” he replied, stepping back and grabbing his bag. 

She waved as he headed out the door and down the cobbled paths through the great city of Aldoria. The palace sprawled at the highest point of the city, only visible because of the elevation in the landscape as it was not built to be tall. There was a bit more foot traffic than usual, and Toruk was surprised by the amount of unfamiliar faces, but he shook it off. That wasn’t too unusual. There was a holiday coming up and he assumed a lot of people from the villages spread through the forests were coming to the city to visit or to buy supplies for their own celebrations. 

Toruk made it to the front doors of the castle and lifted the tassel of his gold colored belt to the guard, who made sure that he did have the right belt before letting him through. 

From there, it was just another day, albeit a tense one. 

Toruk went to the southern storeroom, looking at the damage that had occurred the day before, his board in hand to mark down what would need to be bought to replace the goods. This part was going to take him at least two hours so he tried not to think about how behind that would put him in resorting the green storeroom after the last apprentice he’d tried out had messed it up so completely. Now he had to fix it all again. Besides, why was everyone trying to give him an apprentice? He had helpers that knew what they were doing and he could handle all of the storerooms himself, and it wasn’t like he was even old enough to be in danger of getting sick that often, never mind dying straight up. 

He finished figuring how much they would need to buy to replace what had been spoiled by the mice, not much after all had been told. The damage was mostly caused by someone chasing a mouse around and falling into a pile of earthen jars of jams which soaked into some of the root flour bags near them. 

He recounted the marks on his board and nodded, coming out of the storeroom to find his helpers so they could help clean the room up a little and reorder a couple of things that had been knocked down. He looked up in time to see the prince rushing down another hall, looking almost panicked compared to the worry that had been on his face the day before. 

Toruk blinked, wondering if he had imagined it since the prince had been moving so quickly. He shook his head and kept on working. They needed to finish preparations for the rainy season which was set to start any day now, so he didn’t have time to worry about such things. 

Later, after finishing cleaning up in the southern room and starting in the green room, Kata wandered in. Toruk looked over at the helper, who stretched a little before putting her hands on her hips. 

“Good morning, Kata,” Toruk said, a little surprised. “Did you just get here? I didn’t see you earlier.”

“Yes, I did,” she said with a shrug. “I had something I had to do before I could come to work today.”

“Oh, is everything alright then?”

She shrugged again. “It’s fine,” she said rather stiffly. “What do you need help with in here?”

“Well, I’m forming a plan right now but you can start by pulling the wax blocks over to the corner while I finish.”

“Alright,” she said, stepping over to do so. 

Toruk hummed to himself as he counted up some waxed cloths when Kata cleared her throat uncomfortably and said, “Uh, Toruk, on the way here I heard that you father got injured a little earlier.”

Toruk looked over surprised considering that she lived on the other edge of the city from where he lived. “Who did you hear that from?”

“One of the maids who comes from your part of the city,” Kata replied. “She said that he’s been really hurt. If you want to go check on him after you make the plan, I will cover for you until you get back.”

Toruk bit his lip nervously. “Did you hear what kind of injury?”

“I think she said it was a broken leg.”

Jallie was a forest harvester. A broken leg would keep him from traveling the paths and gathering food to sell at the end of the day or to use for the family. Still, leaving his job to check on him would not make the situation easier for his family. He could support them from his wages until his father was back on his feet. 

“No, thank you. I appreciate that, Kata, but I need to stay and work if that is the case. I wouldn’t want to do anything to risk my place here if my family needs my support while my father heals.”

Kata nodded, though she almost seemed displeased by his response. 

“As you wish.”

It was so final sounding that it startled Toruk speechless and she left before he could ask her what she meant by that. He decided to find her and ask her what that was all about. It was not wise to act recklessly in the palace, and that was strange enough that Toruk didn’t trust what was going through her mind at all. 

He went out and looked down the hallway, catching a glimpse of her as she disappeared around a corner. He tucked his board into his belt and jogged to catch up. This really had been a strange day, and Toruk did get the feeling something was not right. 

Toruk heard a noise behind him, sensed that he was falling, and then there was only confusion. People were moving in the halls around him, screaming and yelling nonsensical words, and there was blood running out of his nose and across his lips. He gasped as someone shouted in his ear and he brought his hands up to where they had a firm grip in his hair, tearing the beads out of his braids. 

“WHERE IS THE PRINCE!!!” the words screamed, finally making sense through the heavy accent. 

He gasped and winced at the sound. “I don’t know,” he said as loud and clearly as he could, even with his bloodied nose. “Please!” 

“You’re coming with me, then,” the voice growled, and Toruk was dragged across the ground, scrambling to find his sense of balance through the myriad of pains in his head.

@wolfeyedwitch

Let me know if you want to be tagged in future installments. I have a whole outline and a schedule to write it, so if I don't write more of it this weekend, there will be more around this time next week. Thank you!!

[nitannichionne]

If He Was Your Fan (A Henry Cavill Fan Fic), Chapter 73: Long Lost & Found

Your watch vibrates. Time to get up. Your phone plays Goa, and you open your eyes. You sit up and sigh.

“You comin’ today?”  you hear John’s voice call from downstairs.

“I’ll bike over later,” you call back.

“Okay.”

You look out of the window and see the garden below. It’s pretty bare due to the time of year, but it’s still nice to look out. Your vision turns inward as you remember how you got here.

You were dehydrated from crying. Luc stood by you and nuzzled you as you did. You stared out into the night, looking at the moon through the trees. Luc nuzzles you as you just go blank, looking up at the sky. You don’t even know how long you’ve been here, but you took one of Luc’s blankets to keep warm. He still had a thicker blanket and saddle on him.

Suddenly you see a flickering light. You realize it’s a flashlight and freeze, not sure what to do…until you hear John calling you over and over. You sigh, realizing he’s come looking for you, and he sounds worried.

You feel a tinge of guilt and call out. “Here!”

He comes and sits next to you. “I’m not going to ask if you are okay. I know you’re not.”

“I just feel like it’s all falling apart, John.”

“You don’t want to go home, do you?”

You shake your head, still unable to look at him.

“Well, you can stay at my place,” he offers. “I got a cottage not far from here and it’s on my parent’s property. My grandparents used to live there, but they are gone now so it’s mine. It’s nice, and you can go home whenever you’re ready—”

You look at him, and hug him tight. He hugs you back. “Thank you. I’ll pay you for staying, I’ll cook and clean, whatever.”

“Let’s just get out of here, yeah?” He looks around. “This place gives me the creeps.”

“It’s riddled with ghosts, I think,” you joke, but you really believe it.

“So why’d you come out here?” he asks, rising to his feet and offering his hand.

“Sanctuary.”

When you returned, you see Finn’s car still there.

“Thank God,” Finn smiles with relief. “Is your phone off?”

“Yes, I turned it off.”

He takes a deep breath. “If you like, I can take you home.”

“I’m not going home, thank you,” you tell him. “I am staying at a friend’s.”

“I can take you—”

“No, I’ve got it,” John nods. “I don’t mind.”

That was three days ago.

You like it here, really like it here.

Churi brought Luna to you, food and all…even picked up a small pan and litter for her. The second she gives you your cat, she hugs you.

“Tell me everything,” she says softly.

“I knew you’d ask,” you nod, and gesture to the kettle boiling.

“I did what you said,” Churi says as you sit down in the kitchen.

“I never thought a stable boy would live—”

“His grandparents’ old home. His parents are in the bigger house.”

“Ah.”

“Did you know he is studying to be a vet?” you inform proudly. “He’s attending the Royal Veterinary College just fifteen minutes up the road. He gets up and works at Trent, goes to school and then goes back to Trent.”

“Wow, he’s really driven.”

“Can you imagine studying all day and working around potential patients for the rest of it—”

Churi puts her hand on yours. “Hey.”

“What?”

“Are you okay?” she asks you.

“I just…needed to breathe,” you admit. “Going back to the apartment felt like something I couldn’t handle. I mean…he put my desk together, we made love everywhere, I just—he was the first tea I ever hosted, Chiru!”

“Any idea when you’ll be back in Brixton or the city?”

“Soon,” you nod. “He should have left on the junket by now.”

“I think he left today,” she exhales. “He’s been looking for you, calling us.”

“You told him I was alright—”

“Yes, and he was grateful for the emojis you sent-the prayer sign, the plane,” she pauses. “He went to your apartment, you know.”

“I thought he might.”

“Which is why you didn’t go home?” Chiru’s eyebrows raised, and she shook her head at you. “Mitra, you must go home. You can’t stay here forever, can you?”

You sigh. She is right, but you just don’t want to hear it right now.

“Stella is giving me food to bring to you and John, by the way, and she says she’ll call you tonight. Sophie says she’ll come by the stables, too.”

“Good, I’d like to have tea here with you all before I go,” you say. “It’s very peaceful here and Trent isn’t far away. We could make a day of it…or at least a nice ride and tea before John comes home.”

Days go by, and finally you have to go home…well, at least to the recreation centre in Brixton. You told people there never to tell when you’re coming before you started volunteering and if anyone called and asked, to give false dates and let you know. You set that up the second you started volunteering.

Much to your relief, no one was there. For days you were afraid if you left Ferny Hill, you’d be the subject of paparazzi. But, no, no one was there. Then, suddenly:

“Why?” you ask under your breath.

“Because my sis works at Hyde Park and saw something…interesting,” she chuckles. “you are going to be my big break.”

“You want to be a photographer, then?”

“A photo journalist, yes.”

You shake your head. “This may not be the way.” You frown at her. “If you like I can ask if you can look at the programs I work on,” you say with a shrug. “I work with children here, and at a couple of orphanages? That’s more interesting—well, the children are.”

She stands for a moment, and you see her face as she lowers her camera. “You want me to come with you?”

“This is the story, uh—”

“Dana.”

“Dana,” you reply. “You got a boyfriend? Girlfriend? Lover?”

She frowns.

“Ah, so you understand why I am not answering those questions,” you say. “No matter what you think, it’s still private. But this? It’s still good information, and a story can be written about it.”

You get the centre director’s permission to take pictures of certain places inside, and with a signed agreement, she could take the pictures as long as the children’s faces were not depicted for public consumption and the centre got altered and unaltered copies.

All in all, it was a nice afternoon, three hours total. You say your thanks and goodbyes, and head for the train station…

But then you notice it: four men get out of a dark car and start following you.

You see them. It’s so obvious.  You switch streets, and they are not far behind. They split and inner alarms go off. If you go into a building they plan on covering the back.

Why? Why is this happening?

You draw a shaky breath. Henry is out of the country. You don’t care what is going on, and you want him here, but that’s nonsense. You duck into call Finn on your cell phone.

“Hey, love—”

“Finn—”

“What’s wrong?”

“Finn, I—I’m being followed.”

“Followed? By whom?”

“I don’t know—”

He chuckles lightly. “Are you sure--?”

“Yes!” you lower your voice as you duck into Argos Brixton. The department store is a decent size, and if you can just duck here or there you might be able to get out.  “I’m coming to Trent, alright? Something is up.”

You buy a white fleece hoodie, black jacket and large gray backpack. You make the switch in housewares, putting your coat and bag in the large one and donning your new outerwear. You run to the bathroom to use the soap then to the bath area and find some samples to change the smell and look of the coat. You change your boots for gym sneakers you brought with you. You are a mixture of bathroom soap and bubble gum. You pull out your phone and hold it, pretend to text. Since you aren’t very tall, you could be mistaken for a teen.

To your relief, you find some teens from the center, and you mix in. Some say hello, having seen you and you smile. They keep talking and you follow as one of the pack. Luckily they are headed in the direction of the tube. You wave goodbye as if you know them all, some even waving back, and get on.

You are trying not to shake and you are trying not to look weird. You get off a few stops before you are supposed to, and take a bus to Trent. You walk in, and start running as soon as you pass through the gate. “Finn!” You race inside the stables. “F—”

You freeze. The very men you evaded are standing there!

“They got here just before you did,” Finn explains.

You are about to run when you hear a gun click. Your hands go up.

“Bloody hell, Wilson! That’s not necessary.”

“Tired of running after her, Graham,” a deep voice grounds out. “Stop where you are.”

You turn to them.

“Lower your hands, madam, you are not under arrest—”

“Why are you here?!” you snap. “Why are you following me?”

“May we use your office?” the less aggressive one asks.

“Yes, of course,” Finn looks utterly intimidated and you feel unsafe.

You all file into Finn’s office, but the door is closed on Finn.

“I am Graham, and my trigger-happy partner here is Wilson.”

Wilson nods, and puts his hands behind his back, standing at attention.

You shake your head. “I don’t know why you’re here—”

“I know.” Graham says gently.

You start going into your leg pack. “I’m pretty sure I’ve done nothing wrong, and my passport and visas are in order—”

“We know that, too.” Wilson says gruffly.

“if you were in my place, wouldn’t you be a bit nervous, panicked, even?”

Graham sits across from you and leans in. His demeanor is relaxed and gentle, as if he was speaking to a frightened child, and you are willing to accept his instead of anything negative.

“Allow me to explain, milady.”

You breath catches and you frown. What did he just say?

@mistress-of-ward​  @nuggsmum​  @messyinsomniacbookgirl  @jencanbeyouryengeralt​  @sweetdreamsofgelato​  @mary-ann84​  @omgkatinka  @the-soot-sprite​  @viking-raider  @keanureevesisbae  @henryobsessed​  @summersong69​ @kinbhot4henners  @sunshine96love​  @michelehansel​  @radofrivia  @thelastsock​   @defffcc  @tenaciousneckpartypainter  @rn7rocksn @mrskikirazz  @daydreamin83  @ruthoakenshield  @musicartmayheminmyheart  @michelehansel  @tumblnewby  @defffcc @tenaciousneckpartypainter @rn7rocksn  @daydreamin83 @ruthoakenshield  @forallthebrokenheartedthings  @alphacancrii @liquorlaughslove @designerewriterchic @sofiebstar @tamychm  @nikkilynn303 @circesgirl @aaescritora @xoxohannahlee  @pixie88 @fckdeusername@maan24@rn7rocks @kaatelyyynn  @october505 @absentmindedreader @introvertedmouse

[lilac-melody]

Fantasia LOVE&KISS Novel Epilogue

Disclaimer: I’m not a professional translator

Masterlist here

🎤

Aizou left the bathroom and headed for the living room. When he opened the door, he found his brother standing in the kitchen. It was the weekend, but it was unusual to see him there.

(He’s wearing my clothes without permission.)

It was Aizou’s favorite jacket that he’d bought with anticipation.

As he sat on the couch in the living room looking at his phone, he heard a soft clank.

On the table in front of him was a mug. Ken picked up Kuro, who had been rubbing up against him, and put her on his shoulder.

“...Are you coming today?” Aizou asked quietly. 

The tickets for two that he had left on the table the other day were gone when he woke up in the morning.

“Oh, is today the last day of your play? Arisa-chan said she wanted to go, so I might go as well. Maybe,” Ken laughed with an awkward expression on his face.

(It’s a date then...well, that’s fine...)

Aizou stared at his cup quietly. “...You know, one of these days, I’m considering moving out and getting a place of my own...” It was something he’d been thinking about for a long time. He talked to Manager Uchida about it and she’s helping him find an affordable place to live. He didn’t see his brother that often, and they barely even spoke.

So he may as well say it now.

“Hm...sounds good, I guess?” It was the same light tone as usual. Even now, even though they lived in the same house, it was as if they were living separately. So there was no way that he’d be troubled.

“I haven’t decided when, but when I do, can I take Kuro with me?”

Ken stroked Kuro’s head gently as he looked at him. “Well, it’s fine with me...” He paused, “actually, no, you can’t.”

“Eh, why? It’s mostly me who takes care of her.”

He really thought Ken wouldn’t object.

“If you take Kuro with you, you won’t ever come back,” Ken replied, holding Kuro out. “But if you’re worried about this little one, then you’ll surely come back and see her every now and then, right?”

Aizou took her from his brother’s arms, and she squirmed, as if she preferred his brother. He adjusted his grip on her, taking care not to drop her, and she finally became comfortable and settled down.

Aizou looked at Ken’s face in confusion, not knowing what to say.

“Well, that’s how it is...anyway, I’m going to meet up with Arisa-chan,” Ken started to leave before suddenly pausing. “I’m borrowing your clothes, by the way,” he grinned at him, before leaving the room with a happy whistle.

“You’re already wearing them...” Aizou muttered, hugging Kuro tightly.

Even if he took Kuro with him, he was sure that he’d come back to the apartment anyway.

For him, he was always like that. He always tried to stay a family.

He finished getting ready and went to the front door, putting on his shoes and slung his bag over his shoulder. The house was quiet, and the lights were off.

He closed and locked the front door, and shoved the key into his pocket as he left.

(Alright, let’s go...)

💮

When Yujiro walked out the front door of his house, his mother came to see him off.

“I’ll be sure to see the show today, with your father.”

“Yeah...”

“Say hi to Aizou-kun for me.”

“Yeah...sure...” Yujiro replied vaguely.

“You two have to get along,” his mother chided.

“I know...well, I’m off,” Yujiro started to walk away, but was quickly stopped by his mother.

“Wait,” his mother took out a hiuchi stone and struck it, causing Yujiro to glance at her in surprise. She smiled at him. “I do this when your father and Koichiro perform. It’s a prayer that the play will be completed safely.”

She looked like she was about to start crying. Until now, she’d held back.

“Thank you, mom...”

“Do your best. Have a great day- and good luck.”

“Yeah...I’m going, now...”

(It’s time to go...)

To the world that was awaiting them.

⚔️🏹

The city was still quiet, as the people had not yet awakened. Only the occasional chirp of a small bird could be heard. It was a little dark in the distance, but the sky was beginning to lighten.

Two thin shadows stretched across the cobblestones of the square where the statues of the founding heroes stood.

“Why did you refuse the horse when the princess offered to give it to you? It would have been easier with the horse,” Aizou walked next to him, his arms crossed with a disapproving look on his face.

“Why didn’t you get your own horse? I don’t want one.”

“Well, if we’re traveling together, I don’t want to be the only one on horseback.”

“No one said anything about us traveling together. Why are you making all of the decisions on your own?”

After staying at the castle for about two weeks, Yujiro decided to leave because the injury on his leg had healed. He told the princess and her sister yesterday. 

However, he did not say a word to Aizou.

And yet, when he packed his bags and left his room in the morning, he was waiting for him, dressed in his traveling clothes, looking as if it was simply a natural thing to do.

Apparently, he had heard from the princess and her sister and decided that he would go with him.

Unlike Yujiro, Aizou had not been injured and could have left at any time.

The reason he had been taking it easy at the castle seemed to be because he was waiting for Yujiro to recover.

Maybe he was worried about his injuries, or maybe he was just too meddlesome, even though no one had asked him to do so.

Although he had no trouble walking, the pain was still there. Yujiro wanted to speed up, but he honestly couldn’t.

Yujiro glared at him, his eyes practically screaming “don’t follow me!”.

Aizou folded his hands behind his head and turned to the side with a whistle, as if he had no intention of listening to what he had to say.

This attitude was even more annoying, and the wrinkles between Yujiro’s eyebrows deepened.

“Come to think of it...did you remember anything?” Aizou was probably asking about a past memory that he had forgotten. The two were looking for the jewel to retrieve their memories.

“...No. Did you?” Yujiro asked as they walked to the city gate together.

“I knew it wouldn’t be so easy to make our wish come true,” Aizou took out the yellow jewel from his pocket and rolled it in his hand. He must have wished on it too.

He’d even asked the princess to help him find and read some books in the castle library, but no matter which method he tried, the end result was the same.

As usual, his memories of his life before the age of ten remained blank, and he couldn’t even find a clue as to how he came to be in this world.

Yujiro took his blue jewel out of his pocket. He wondered if it would simply take a long time for his wish to come true, or if there was some special way to get it, or if it is really just a jewel.

It's not that he didn't think that he had gone through all that trouble to get it, but strangely enough, he wasn't all that discouraged.

“Maybe it really is just a jewel,” Aizou held the yellow jewel up with his fingers and held it up to the sunlight that was finally beginning to shine. “If we sell it, we can probably make some good money.”

“I’m not going to sell it. I went through too much to get it in the first place.”

“If it’s just a jewel, there’s no point in keeping it...unless you want it as a good luck charm.”

If he kept it, maybe his wish would come true someday. The story never said anywhere that the wish would come true instantly.

“Well, for the time being, we can look for other ways to remember...like, maybe if I fell down or something,”Aizou continued.

Yujiro stared at him. “If it were that easy, don’t you think you would have remembered a long time ago?”

“You never know. A fortuneteller once told me shock can bring back memories.”

“If you think that, then go bang your head against a tree somewhere. Alone.”

“I already tried that, but it didn’t work,” Aizou shrugged.

(What an idiot...)

Yujiro sighed and glanced over at Aizou. “So why are you following me, anyway? Go travel by yourself.”

“We have the same goal. Wouldn’t it be more rational to travel together?” Aizou tossed his jewel up in the air and caught it, multiple times. “It’s not like I want to go with you too, you know.” His lips curled into a pout.

“What’s rational about it?”

“Ever since we started traveling together, we survived snowy mountains, slayed a dragon, and got the jewels.”

“Nothing good happens when I’m with you.”

“That again?!” Aizou frowned. “I won’t accept anymore complaints from you!”

“And I won’t listen to your nagging!” Yujiro slapped his hands over his ears.

Just as the city gates came into view, they heard a voice calling out to them. “Brave travelers!”

They turned around. The window of that inn where they were staying was open, and the innkeeper’s daughter was waving her hand as she leaned forward.

“Thank you for saving the princess! Have a good trip!” She tossed them both a red apple.

Yujiro and Aizou accepted them and looked at each other. Forgetting their argument from earlier, they smiled at each other.

They had not yet found the answer to what they were looking for.

But maybe someday, since the two were traveling together on the same path, they’ll find what they’re looking for.

Yes, someday.

(Maybe together, we can find it...)

The two men waved their hands, turned forward, and walked straight to the city gates, which was enveloped by the morning sun.

When one story ends, a new one begins. The regrets of the past, the fate that binds them to this world, leaving behind all the doubts, worries, and fears about the future.

To the shining world that awaits beyond the mysterious door, the world that someone dreamed of someday.

They were going to move forward together with the dawn. As long as they continued to believe, there would always be hope.

Because hope will always exist.

[assimilates]

uhhhh ok gonna talk abt mother death / parent death here don't mind me

my mom would be 65 this week... her bday was jan 3rd and she died on this day 5 years ago. she had barely turned 60 but she was in a coma so she didn't really turn 60. i miss her so much. it rained today just like it rained on her death day. i think about her so often and this week, for whatever reason, has been especially hard. maybe because it's been 5 years. not sure. i had to call out of work on her birthday after speaking to my therapist.

i just wish she could see what i've accomplished in these 5 years. i'm living on my own. i have a boyfriend who cherishes me and treats me like a queen. i have a job. i'm moving to canada. i'm starting a new life w my boyfriend. i have friends who care about me.

with the good is the bad. my roommates are abusive (and no, not because i'm told i have to dishes). one of them is especially so when she's drunk. it hurts me. my boss even wants me to move. but i can't. i'm waiting and saving to move to canada. it can't happen fast enough.

she'd be so proud of me, i know that. everyone's told me that. it's only natural.

i just wanna hug her. hold her hand. tell her i love her while she's watching some real housewives. every time i hear certain songs on the radio i think of her. anytime a celeb she likes dies i think of her. i think of her constantly. how we'd say the same words like a prayer every night. praying to see each other again. we've said those words like a mantra as far back as i can remember. just so that if we died in our sleep or if the world ended, we knew we went to bed w love in our hearts.

i miss hearing her say those words. i miss her taking care of me when i get sick. i miss her smell. i miss the way she'd laugh. the way she'd smile. the way she'd tell me she's proud of me when i did well in school. i never graduated. i wanted her to see me graduate and i regret not doing so every day. i should've known, you know? any year could have been her year but i just. i tried to ignore it until it was too late. i even prayed for her in my grief. that she'd make it through like she always had before.

it just... it hurts so, so bad. it was so traumatic. her not being able to say goodbye since she was on a ventilator. i said my words to her thinking the coma they'd induce would help her, but she'd never wake up... they put her down like an animal. drugged her up w morphine and let her stop breathing. we pulled the plug. i held her hand. i hugged her even though i didn't want to because i knew it meant goodbye.

my boss told me it's not really goodbye. it's until we meet again. i was so suicidal and i had wanted to meet her so bad, but every attempt failed. she doesn't want to meet me again just yet. and i'm happy for that now. i know how beautiful life is. even in the mess of the state the world is rn. i still see the beauty in nature and life. which i never thought was possible. i stopped taking opiates because she died and there went my supply. so i'm grateful for that, too.

i don't know where i'm going w this. i just need to get it out. i wish she saw me turn 30. i wish she could meet my boyfriend. i wish for a lot of things which i know will never come true... but i just hope she's out there somewhere. i hope she's stardust again. i hope she's in some paradise where she is free from all the hurt and pain... i know she's better off dead than alive. but i just hope someday i can see her again. i just miss you and love you so much, mom.

to anyone who reads this, thank you. i feel better just getting it off my chest. i'll share with you the words mom and i would say every night:

"good night, i love you, i'll see you in the morning - don't let the bed bugs bite, smooches, sweet dreams -

i love you."

[ittybittyblorbo]

It’s my first time posting writing on tumblr! I wrote this half-awake so please be kind, but feel free to leave any constructive criticism. :>

The priestesses massage me as they dress me in silks finer than grains of sand. To them, it is still an unworthy offering to who they see as the descendant of a goddess. None dare to make eye contact with me, and instead turn away, heads down as a sign of reverence.

The temple is quiet, except for the slight utterings of prayers beneath breaths, thanking the goddess Amalia for her sacred protection. Though I myself am not a goddess, they still treat me as such, and none even dare to address me by my true name. My original name is a relic, so old and unused that even I have forgotten it. Now, I am known to them, and to the people, as “Irae”, meaning “she who bleeds not”.

“There is to be another festival in your honor today,” whispers the head priestess, her eyes, as always, downturned. 

I nearly wince. I’d wanted to spend the rest of my day resting, but it was too late for that. Instead I smile and say the words spoken by my ancestor so long ago, “A people so grateful are honor enough.”

She bows low as the other priestesses conclude their duties. Each takes time to individually kneel before me, and I almost tell them not to before stopping myself. After all, it won’t change anything.

———————————-

It is nightfall when the festival commences. The common folk cheer, drinks flow freely, and I am flocked by foreign dignitaries, magik makers, aristocrats spanning all areas of the kingdom. All of them have gathered here to celebrate me, and yet none of them speak to me directly. 

I am surrounded by powers and influences so great, what else can a god be other than a tool for mortals? I am but an object to be admired, a weapon to be wielded. It should (and it did) hurt, but not anymore. This cheerful crowd is worth protecting at any cost, even my humanity. The people here believe that I will protect them, from those in the poorest slums to those in the palace. And this peaceful existence is something worth protecting. 

And so I smile at my people, and pray that my presence here calms them.

A roaring boom echoes through the city and I silently curse the gods above. Screaming ensues. Panicked mothers search for their children, noblemen call for their coaches, and my eyes scan the scene for the source of the chaos.

I reach for my sword in its scabbard, thankful that though I am not donning armor, I have it.

“Is that really any way to greet an old friend?”

The voice sends shivers down my spine. Balor smiles at me, astride a midnight black mare. 

“Traitor,” I growl softly. “You tried to trade your kingdom for gold. Was it worth it going from the king’s right hand man to a backstabbing general no kingdom would accept as their own?”

Instead of looking irritated, his smile only grows. “Your insults could use a little work, Irae.”

The magic within my blood begins to hum, begging to be used.

“By decree of the servants of Amalia, you are hereby under arrest for treason.”

“Only if you can defeat me.”

He dismounts with a swagger no man in their right mind would have when facing me. His horse flees after he slaps its hind side. 

A deathly silence overtakes us, as we circle around each other, him brandishing his iconic twin pair of daggers and me with my sword.

I swing first, managing to cut his cheek before being pushed away. He then swipes at me violently, desperation in his eyes, he manages to cut me off, but my magik is already in effect. 

I cast an illusion over myself, but to him it looks like I’ve deflected his blow.

This is how I became known as the “Bloodless” to my foes. To them, I never bleed, and this concept of a person incapable of being struck is beauty. It is protection for my people and it is my purpose and it is everything I have fought to maintain. 

And so, the legends lie. Amalia is no warrior, but a mere trickster goddess. Someone capable of illusion with the flick or a wrist, and I am but a pale imitation. Yet still, I am a shining beacon of light.

Balor narrows his eyes. I feint a hit from my right before swiftly switching to my left. Dust kicks up in the air, blinding him and-

Victory is mine, is my last thought. Blood flows freely from my abdomen in an amount too great to illusion with magik. And that is the death of Irae.

____________________

For weeks after my death, there is wailing in the streets.

The priestesses wear black;

The people look up at the heavens, begging for my return;

Balor is on the run.

When my corpse is burned,

People whisper.

For my magik is no longer there to protect the secrets of the suffering

I long endured.

There are scars from battles hard fought

That no one had seen.

My corpse is a stranger to them.

I smile a bit, and think

Victory is mine,

And it is Balor’s

And it is yours.

When I was younger, I saw all that was wrong with the world, and so did Balor. Together, we devised a plan, years in the making, so very painstaking. Over every detail, we poured our hearts and souls.

Until there was a solution, because this could not continue.

The exploitation of people in the name of a trickster goddess.

It was cruel.

(Do you see now?)

They will survive now. They will see value in something other than an outdated god. They will see it in each other. The wealthy and the poor. The powerful and the powerless. The meek and the brave.

(Do you see now?)

Balor, my only friend, the only one who dared utter my name became my killer. Killing the idol of a people, but starting something new among them.

And that something is worth dying for.

You're known by many names, but they all point to one trait you've held all these years: your enemies have never seen you bleed. Your secret? A pinch of illusion magic that hides all the scars and wounds, allowing you to intimidate your foes, even on your last legs.

[tallulahneale]

Title: Who really lives their dream?

Summary: Vince as a pharma tech, alternate reality!

A/n: This is a fluffy wuffy story.

Part Five

Over the next 4 days, he teaches Lula everything about the operation. By day 5 she is pretty much a pro, checking through the online forums for new clients, pin pointing new drop off points and keeping an eye on the stock.

“Are you ready?” Vince asks her.

“Wait, I don’t think I can go through with this” she starts to ramble “I mean, we can wait for anoth-“

“Lula. No. The longer we leave it the riskier it is”

“I know but wh-“

“We have to do this. Stop talking”

She takes a deep breath, staring at him, hands shaking. He gives her a burner phone with a random sim, “call this number at 7:47am on Tuesday, no earlier no later. Throw it away and break the sim once you’re done.”

“But we have work that day! Vince I’m not sure anymore”

“Stop it Lula, your nervous energy is rubbing off on me”

“…sorry”

“It’s fine. Just call the number, make yourself sound extra white. Y’know, like a Karen”

“Yes yes, I got it”

“Cool. You got this boubout” he smiles at her. She smiles back nervously. Giving him a tight hug. “I’ll miss you.”

“Stop all that, you’ll see me in no time. My Mom said you can drop by her house if you need help or if you just want to chill” he said as he embraces her.

They stare into each other’s eyes, is this that moment? they think simultaneously. She let go, giving him a kiss on the cheek then resting her head on his shoulder “Fight hard nigga.”

——

Tuesday morning was tense. She made the call and headed straight to work. She did her best to keep it altogether till the end of the work day but she was on edge.

9am, no Vince.

10am, still a no show.

11am nothing.

A nosy little coworker walks towards her, he’s probably the one Vince was talking about, Lula says to herself.

“No Vince today?” The short stout man asks. Mockingly, she looks around the pharmacy “Huh?”

“It’s almost lunch time and Vince still isn’t here. Quite unusual if you ask me.” He responds curiously.

“Awww you must really care about your coworkers wellbeing” she says sarcastically “that’s sweet.” He looks at her before walking away, realising that he’s got the right one today.

The rest of the day runs smoothly and Lula heads home. She freshens up, makes a prayer for Vince and drifts of to bed.

Friday morning she wakes up to 10+ missed calls, an email and the work group chat blowing up.

“Fuck. It’s really happening” she whispers to herself. She reads through the email;

‘Following the court case, a verdict of guilty has been reached. Mr Staples will been removed from the register, have his license revoked and jailed for a period of 12 months for selling $35,000 worth of controlled substances.’

“Fuck. That nigga is hella smart” Lula says to herself, “Vince knew all of this would happen and came up with an ingenious plan.” She checks the group chat and it’s going off! Baptiste, the branch manager, sends a brief but condescending message;

‘I am sure you all received the email and heard the news about one of our hardest working staff. It truly saddens me to see this. However, let this be a lesson for those in other branches. Thanks, Baptiste.’

“Shut the fuck up, yall didn’t catch him! Slow ass mfs” she says to herself getting ready to leave for work. “Today’s gonna be a long day” she adds.

——

After a busy, annoying and frustrating work day, Lula heads to the operation apartment. She did agree to manage the operation while he’s away, There’s no time like the present, she encourages herself as sets up a new plan. Vince didn’t leave her with a guide on how to get through the 12 months without him. So she comes up with her own; drop offs will be 3 days a week instead of daily. The payments will be made prior to drop off with an increased fee. The news was basically publicity for ‘Painless-Pills’ she giggles, “free marketing!” Technically, is wasn’t free, the cost was Vince been away but hey, he was prepared. Lula updates the forum, sent a message to old customers and the 175 new ones that popped up since Tuesday. The clientele was growing and the stocks were running low. She still goes to pharmacy to keep up appearances, but she couldn’t get stock from there anymore.

Within a week, Lula was able to cut a deal with three wholesale manufacturers. This included changing the custom logo and brands of the meds to a ‘p-p’, “That name is corny af” she laughs. She informs new and future clientele of the change to avoid confusion and states:

‘All referrals must pay at fee of $2700 before being accepted into the p-p system. Present clients must make a payment of $1500 if they wish to continue with p-p’

Going through the list of clients she knows they are willing to pay for legit medical-grade pills. Plus Vince showed her the books and boiiii did she see some questionable names on that list!

She heads to work at the pharmacy like normal, after she sorts the new guide and updates the forum.

“Today is going to be a good day” she smiles softly.

Part 5 1/2 link.

~~

Translations: (n/b not fluent in Creole)

Sweetheart = boubout

~~