#do i have a special fondness in my heart for hand-touching/hand-holding scenes?? clearly

[hischiersjohnston]

RED, WHITE & ROYAL BLUE | Alex & Henry + hands

Alex and Henry's relationship progression through their hand-touching/hand-holding.

[nessaxc]

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You've Already Got Me || Oikawa Tooru

You become jealous when you see your friend, Oikawa cracking jokes with a girl at the volleyball court. Upset, you storm back to your house and when Oikawa comes over to your place, he finds you curled up in your bed. When he finds out what's bothering you, he has a good idea of what could cheer you up.

~ Words: 6k

~ NSFW 18+

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You were on your way to visit Oikawa one night when you saw something that made your stomach twist in knots. You stopped dead in your tracks when you heard him cracking jokes and laughing with a girl on the volleyball court. A frown was quick to mar your features as you watched from a far distance. You didn't know why you bothered watching the way the young woman's dimples peeked through at the corners of her mouth or the way his grin widened as he made her giggle.

Whatever the next thing he said must have been the funniest joke ever told because she was laughing so much that she was nearly breathless, and she reached over to throw her hand down on his shoulder as she did. That was it.

Your heart throbbed heavily in your chest upon the sight and you lingered for a moment too long before you walked off, eyes still focused on them even as you left the scene until they were completely out of sight. You quickly found yourself running back home so you could suffer in silence about what you just witnessed, wanting nothing more than to crawl up under the comfort of your blanket and hide there until this feeling went away.

You two were just friends, he wasn't even yours, so you didn't have a right to be envious of the girl he was merely conversing with, but it still hurt, a lot more than you wish it did. As you made your way to your house, your feet didn't stop its rapid movements even for a second, you were too concentrated on hiding from the rest of the world so no one could see you like this, all crumpled up and frail.

When you made it to the safe cradle of your bed, you scrambled on it until you reached for the blanket and flung it over your entire body. You heaved a deep sigh, blinking away the tears that threatened to come pouring out but you wouldn't allow them because you didn't want to feel more pathetic than you already did. You rolled on your side, trying to erase the image of them together in your mind but to no avail, they still kept popping up every time you attempted to distract yourself with any other thoughts. You didn't think that Oikawa, the one you had been yearning for as long as you could remember, would ever want you when he could likely have any girl he wanted. That idea made you think up every single one of your insecurities and the next thing you knew, you were making a list of all the things you didn't like about yourself.

You hugged the blanket closer to yourself, wanting nothing more than to nap the day away so you wouldn't have to think about this for a second longer. You remained there on the bed, completely restless, and shifted around in an attempt to find a comfortable position but that didn't seem to work out so well. You whined in defeat and that was when there was a loud tap on your door.

You pulled the blanket off enough so that it only reached under your chin before you called out, "Come in!"

The door opened instantly at that and then came in Oikawa, a wide smile on his face as he peeked his head in to look at you, but you didn't return it, instead you faced the wall and uttered a quiet, "Hey."

"Hey right back to you," he replied with a low chuckle. "You don't mind if I just left myself in right?" he asked, but by the time he did, he was already inside of your room.

"Sure, you're here already," you mumbled under your breath and continued to gaze at the wall in front of you, not even glancing his way.

"Okay," he drawled, chuckling and finding this uncomfortable situation to be humorous nonetheless. He perched himself at the end of your bed, his body near your feet. "What did I do this time?" he questioned, a smug smirk turning the corners of his mouth.

"I was about to take a nap but obviously you're here and rudely interrupted that," you said matter-of-factly, and he snorted, leaning forward and his hand reached to grab your chin, pulling it forward so that your eyes met his.

"Why the sass?" he asked as he quirked an eyebrow. "You on the rag or something? You don't have to hide that from me," he laughed as his crinkled eyes locked on yours, and it made your heart thump loudly in your chest, making you forget for a second why you were so upset in the first place. You merely shook your head, wondering how long it would be until he figured it out. He was clever, and he always knew when something was bothering you and what exactly it was without you even having to say it. You two were just that close, and that was one of the many reasons why you didn't want to admit what was wrong.

"I don't really want to talk about it," you muttered, and he allowed your chin to drop, his fingers slipping away and returning to his side.

"C'mon, don't leave me in the dark here, Y/N, you know I don't really like it here, not unless you're there," he teased, poking at your shoulder to see how you would react and you merely looked down at the bed sheets just to avoid his stare.

"I said I don't want to talk about it," you repeated in a murmur, eyes drifting shut for a moment and then that image you were trying to desperately push away, returned yet again.

"Didn't see you today, I thought that was kind of strange," he shrugged before he reached his hand out to stroke the curve of your shoulder, fingers pressing against the skin, and it made heat spread across your cheeks almost immediately in response, wishing that the simplest of touches coming from him didn't have such an effect on you.

"Didn't feel like coming over I guess," you told him before you uttered a long sigh.

"Well you're gonna have to talk to me, sooner or later, because I'm not going anywhere, so don't even try to kick me out," he said with a shrug of his shoulders and he pressed his chin to the length of your arm, looking down at your face with a wide smile stretched across his.

"I just saw something today that made me feel really pathetic, okay? Happy now?" you blurted out, hoping he would drop it but knowing full well that he wouldn't, especially after hearing that. He lifted his head up from your arm, eyebrows raised in curiosity.

"What are you not telling me?" he asked, eyes narrowed as he pulled your chin back to him again so that you would look him in the eye when you spoke. "You can tell me anything you know that," he promised, a chuckle spilling from his lips because he found this situation to be amusing. "And if you don't speak up, we'll be here all day, until I figure it out, of course."

"I just feel like I'm not all that great," you admitted without giving it much thought, your mouth moving before your brain could catch up, "there's nothing special about me, and when I saw you talking to that girl-"

He cut you off the second he heard the last word, and then he was able to piece it all together why you were behaving this way. "Wait, are you jealous?" he questioned, bursting out in laughter.

"What? I-"

"You're jealous," he interrupted you again and chuckled loudly like it was the funniest thing. He quickly added, "Of that girl, huh? The one I was talking to earlier, which I'm assuming you saw," he continued laughing after he finished.

You were not very fond of being teased, especially about something like this, that involved your insecurities but he never took anything seriously so you shouldn't be surprised. "She's really pretty, and she probably likes you," you said meekly, finding it difficult to hold anything back now that he knew.

"Don't have an interest in her, not even a little. Y/N, you don't have to compete with anyone, or get all misty on me about how you think I'm going to propose to her," he jested, still snickering about it, and then he crawled over to the left side of your bed so he was in your sights which made your heart catch in your throat that he was this close, that if he just moved an inch his body would be against yours.

"But are you sure? She seemed to be really enjoying your company, and you clearly enjoy hers," you replied as he scooted closer to you, his eyes never leaving yours which made it a little difficult to speak but you still managed. You stared back, finding it all too easy to get lost in those deep, piercing eyes of his.

"She's just an acquaintance, nothing more," he told you, smirk widening as he noticed the look of relief spread across your features and the small smile that joined it. "I only got eyes for you, babe, no one else, and you're seriously another level of stupid if you didn't know that already," he taunted, and your eyes fixated on him, your heart speeding up at such a frantic pace you were almost sure he could hear it being this close.

"Oh," you paused for a long moment before you added in a bashful tone, "you really feel that way?"

"Yes, I got a thing for girls who are stupid like you," he teased in a playful tone so you knew he was joking but you still felt really stupid just like he said. He liked you, he really did, it was real, you had nothing to worry about. What a relief that was. "You're beautiful, and so much more fun. You don't ever have to compete with another person on this earth when you're that cute," he said and pressed his finger against the tip of your nose, accentuating his point by the way your nose scrunched up immediately at the gesture which made him laugh. "And just for the sake of being cheesy, you take my breath away," he added with a smug smile.

"Tooru," you breathed, unable to find the right words or any words in general besides his name. There was a short silence between you two after the laughing ceased, which made you feel like your heart was going to beat right out of your chest, skin prickling with the anticipation of what was going to happen next.

"Why don't I show you exactly what I mean huh?" he suggested. You were all for that.

You kissed him then, before he was able to make the first move. Your hand reached behind his head and your fingers tightened in his hair to press his lips firmly against yours. A faint noise escaped the back of your throat that sounded rather pleased, and just like that you were lost in the moment. Love and desire and the desperate need you had for him overtook you and he gently grasped the back of your neck in order to take control of the kiss. It was oh-so reassuring of any concerns that you had left about what he felt for you.

Holding each other close, you both continued to kiss each other deeply. You matched his passion just as strongly and even fought with him for dominance at one point, catching his bottom lip ever so slightly between your teeth. The mixture of pleasure and that little bit of pain was enough to cause him to nearly lose all sense of control, and he let out a deep groan as he laid you back further on the bed, breaking the kiss then.

"Why do you have to be so fucking cute?" he said with a low chuckle as he made his way on top of your body, the heat of his pressed against your own, making you shudder at the much needed contact. Surely this must be part of a dream. You let yourself sink back into it only to be pulled out again when his lips sought and found yours.

His tongue explored the shape of your lips, seeking entry. You relaxed your mouth, shivering as his questing tongue slid in and met the tip of his. The kiss burned against your lips, banishing all thoughts of a dream. You returned it, intensifying the pressure, nipping at the tip of his tongue. Your hand slipped to the back of his head, winding your fingers into the silk of his hair, holding his lips fiercely against yours.

He parted from your lips only to say, "You're the prettiest girl, you know that? You fucking drive me crazy."

Your lips captured his lower lip and drew it between your teeth. You nibbled it gently and then released it to whisper a simple, "Thank you."

His laugh thundered through his chest before his lips claimed yours once more, harder this time, clamping down to steal the very breath from your lungs. You dug your fingers into his thick hair, pulling his mouth down even harder, making the soft skin of your lips tingle and redden. His tongue thrust deep into your mouth and yours was quick to meet his, licking him back, tasting him, savoring him.

He groaned deep in his chest, and the sound sent chills down your spine. You responded in kind, tiny moans escaping your throat with every breath, urging him on, building his heat even higher, as well as yours.

"I need to feel you, I can't take it," he said, both hands holding the hem of your shirt, awaiting for you to nod your head to grant him permission which you quickly did when he didn't proceed further, and he tossed it over your head so that your silky black bra came into view. He took a moment to ogle the way the bra clung to your skin before he unclasped it from behind, setting your skin free and revealing your breasts to him completely. You felt exposed but you found that you quickly didn't mind with the way he was looking at you.

"Fuck, these are my favorite boobs by far, they're so perky," he said almost breathlessly, which instantly brought a smile on your face, a soft laugh spilling through your lips. He slipped his shirt off next, tossing it to the side, and he emitted a low groan when your hard nipples pressed against the skin of his chest.

He slid his hand down to cup your breast, his strong fingers were gentle on your nipple and then firmer, stroking and squeezing, pulling as you arched up against him with soft noises of approval.

"Your body is perfect, you're perfect, fuck," he praised as his hand moved to stroke your chest, curling his fingers to allow his nails to gently scrape a trail downward, teasing the nerves and making your nipples rise hard and aching. He found one and pinched it between his fingers, sending little shocks of pleasure coursing through your body. He teased and turned it almost to the point of pain, but backing off to squeeze gently and then abandon it to explore the soft, delicate curves of your breasts. He briefly slid them back down to rid you of your rucked up skirt, nearly ripping it off of you in his impatience. Then he hooked his fingers under the waistband of your panties only to bring them down with your skirt, tugging them both off in one motion. He gave himself a moment to drink in the sight of you, how your flesh was already glistening and slick just for him, only for him, and the look of pure, unadulterated lust in his face suggested that it took everything in him not to take you right then and there.

"No one compares to you, so don't you forget it," he whispered hoarsely, and you nodded your head, still speechless and surprised that your jealousy led to this, looks like it was good for something. You were so desperate to explore tonight with him because of how powerful and dominating he was in his arousal.

"Tooru, you sure know how to make a girl blush," you told him in a soft murmur, your cheeks heating up and it spread across your whole face.

He kissed you hard, teeth scraping your lips, nose bumping into yours with the intensity and impatience of it, a strand of his hair sweeping across your sensitive skin. He shifted until he was leaning over you, pinning you, demanding that you finish what you had started.

His mouth trailed down your neck, kissing, licking, biting gently and just to the point of pain. You arched back, giving him access, moaning as his mouth fastened on the tender skin at the base of your throat. He nipped and sucked hard, torturing your flesh with his teeth, leaving light bruises that would mark you as his.

"The things you fucking do to me," he drawled, trailing off before he continued, "there's not a thing I wouldn't do for you, fuck, I'd do anything just to keep you here with me like this."

You were feeling particularly bold at his words so you reached your hand out, fingernails scrapping teasingly across his nipple and then began a slow and tortuous journey downward. His stomach was tight with sheaths of muscles yet smooth to your questing fingers. It rippled beneath your hand, pleasantly responding to your touch. You traced the muscles, appreciating their definition, and he purred at your ministrations, encouraging you.

"I just fucking love how flushed your body looks right now, makes you look even cuter," he murmured, his gruff voice making sparks go off in your veins. You could listen to him talk all day.

He continued the tiny kisses and licks and paused to suck at your burning skin. He was rock hard in his pants yet whisper soft with you, a living oxymoron and it was driving you mad. He was slow with you, only because he wanted to take the time to appreciate your body. You expected to be taken again and again, only to have him continue to tease you with his mouth. Your nipples were so hard they were painful by the time he finally reached and claimed one between his lips.

"You taste so fucking good, we have got so much lost time to make up for," he chuckled against your skin, and it vibrated around your nipple, making you arch up in response. He sucked softly at first and then harder, scraping the engorged flesh with sharp white teeth. You pressed up against him, urging him to continue, your voice in a whisper and raw with whimpers of desire.

Your arms slid around him, pressing and pulling, stroking the skin at his back before sliding your hands down his sides, caressing and marveling at his beautiful body. You slipped your hand down between where your bodies joined to pop the button to his pants open and then tugged the zipper down. You shoved his pants down along with his boxers as far as they could go, but thankfully he kicked them off for you as his mouth created such a searing suction around your nipple. You loved touching him, loved touching his smooth muscles covered by warm skin that felt silken under your fingers. You reveled in the hair on his chest, the delicacy of his back and the curve at the base of his spine that separated flaring upward and rounding into perfection. When you skimmed your fingernails along the line of his ass he tensed and his teeth pinched your nipple more firmly, both of you shivering with the sensation.

"Shit," he pulled away momentarily to curse under his ragged breath, "you drive me mad, Y/N, you're the only one for me, you got that? Only you," he admitted, and you nodded your head frantically, making him smile widely because of the mere effect he had on you. He shifted his attentions to your other nipple, gifting it with the same slow, loving affection as he had the first one. You wanted to pull his mouth away and haul him up until he was in position so that you could arch up and take him within. You ached for him, feeling hollow and empty, your inner walls clenching, needing, only to be tortured by tongue and lips that were in no hurry to abandon you.

His hands held you, turning you easily so that he had access, caressing and teasing, skimming your burning skin as low as your waist only to maddeningly stop and slide upward again. His palms felt soft against your skin as he stroked first firmly and then almost to a tickle before grasping you and lifting you to turn you for better access to your breast. He continued to suckle one while his entire hand encompassed the other, the way his long fingers toyed with the delicate mound sent a hot wave of electricity straight down to your core.

Your breath came and went in a soft moan that never quite stopped. You were beyond speech. You wished that it didn't have to take an interaction with another girl and your jealousy to lead to this, but it all worked out in the end and you weren't one to complain when his mouth was watering at the mere sight of you before him. Your moans rose in volume when his lips abandoned your nipple to slide downward over your rib cage then to the narrows of your waist.

"You look even more beautiful when you're wrecked baby, who knew," he whispered to you in a coo. His face was upraised to you, hair hanging in tangles that moved with him, pulling forth even more sensation from your skin.

"You're such a tease," you replied with a soft giggle shortly after the words came out, and it drew one from him right after. He bent his head down to place a soft kiss to your navel, his hot breath covering the skin there. You slid your fingers deep into his hair, tugging gently which certainly caught his attention. "Please take me, Tooru, I need you."

He chuckled, the rumble of it quaking against your body. "Oh believe me, I will, but you've got to be patient," he told you with a smirk stretched across his face, "I'm not sure you believe you're as beautiful as I say you are, so allow me to continue demonstrating," he crooned, and you looked back at him with a weak smile. He was right, and if you both waited, it would make tonight last longer and that was exactly what you knew you wanted deep down despite your need to be filled in that empty space between your legs.

"Okay," you breathed out softly in answer.

His lips descended again and you could feel his smug smile against your skin. He licked and sucked at the skin of your stomach, his hand moving down your thigh and sliding it below to find the tender place behind your knee. You bent your leg to give him better access and he slowly drew his fingers upward, tracing the muscles along the inside of your thigh. He brushed his hand there slowly before he descended your other leg. You whimpered in protest as his fingers passed the center of you without more than a feather-light touch against the hot flesh there.

He squeezed the inside of your thigh, pulling at the flesh, marveling at the way your leg moved instinctively to give him more room. His lips trailed down over your stomach to pause at the softness there. He could feel the hard abdominal muscles tensing, but they were padded by delicate skin. He rested his head on your stomach for a moment to appreciate the way it went taut, and then his lips to your skin started the fire anew.

You could barely reach him as he slid further down your body. You twined your fingers into his hair and let the strands run through your fingers. His hair splayed out over your skin, moving like silk when he turned his head, it was warm and soft and sent delicious tingles throughout your every nerve. The brown locks caught the blue of the night outside and reflected it back, shimmering across his whole body. The breeze coming from your window soothed your hot skin, slipping over your hard nipples like a silken kiss.

He looked up at you, his brown eyes darkened with lust. You gazed at him, caught in the moment, there was no one else in the world but you two. The wind howled outside, but here there was only heat and lust and pleasure. He held your gaze for a moment longer, continuing to drink in the sight of you, half hidden in shadow, bathed in moonlight. He wanted to remember the way you looked forever.

"More," you whispered, "make me yours."

The corners of his eyes crinkled with amusement. His voice was hoarse, yet that playful tone still remained. "You already are, and you always will be. That's a promise I intend on keeping," he assured with a deep purr.

You smiled softly at that, cheeks flushing even more so after hearing the promise in his voice and seeing the smile on his face. He kissed your stomach again and then started to slide lower. He was pinning one leg beneath him, but the other, the one he had been squeezing, bent and pushed your hips upward, begging him for what you hoped was to come. He stopped to nuzzle the velvet-soft line underneath your stomach before he traveled further down. Eagerly, he bent down until his lips met your sex. He sucked the flesh and laved it with his tongue, moving and exploring around to appreciate your flavor, pressing his chin into you as he tasted the hot skin.

Slowly, tortuously, he moved even lower, pausing when he came to the center of you. You were open, moist, begging for his attention. He bent down further and kissed you reverently; inhaling the intoxicating scent you exuded. It surrounded him, swirling in a dance to delight the senses. He lifted a little so that he could see you, waiting for him. Your sex sparkled with tiny beads of moisture that caught the moonlight, and he wanted nothing more in that moment than to dive right in.

"You've got such a pretty pussy baby, just like I knew you would," he said with a hum, "fuck, how is it possible to be this irresistible," he murmured more to himself than to you.

When his tongue touched you and then slid over the swollen nub in one sudden motion, you arched up crying out with need, giving yourself up to pleasure and every single brush of his talented tongue. He felt your muscles ripple beneath his hands, and he continued to pepper kisses along the moist skin. His chin and nose pressed against you as the softness of his lips teased you. He licked tentatively, exploring, feeling out what you liked and where you were the most sensitive. He glided his tongue around with maddening slowness, completely unhurried and allowing himself to become familiar with your taste.

Your back arched up higher while he mapped you, and your fingers grasped reflexively at his hair, nails digging into his scalp as you attempted to bring him closer even though he was a close as could be. When he learned what he needed to know, he delved into you, thrusting deeply with his tongue. He prodded and licked and nipped so gently that you shuddered and pressed upward, demanding more, firmer, deeper. He gave it to you. He licked with long strokes, stripes of his saliva drizzling down to your entrance.

You cried out and felt him smile against you, lips curling from all the sounds that endlessly spilled from your lips. He looked up at you, moisture beads twinkling on his lips, dark eyes black with feral lust. He held your eyes for a long moment, committing your expression and responding smile to memory. He knew that you wouldn't ever look as beautiful as you did now.

He slid his hand up the inside of your thigh, his fingers brushing against your opening gently, teasingly. When he had gathered enough of your juices, he slipped a finger into you and then another as you moaned out his name, opening yourself for him. He went deep, stretching the tender tissue and scissoring them around to coat your wetness all over his fingers. He pushed and pushed, sending ripples of pleasure up your abdomen. Then he stopped and went in quest of his prize.

He found it knuckle-deep on the top surface, a fragile sponge of nerve endings. When he curled his fingers, you cried out, yanking his hair painfully tight in your passion. He fought against the pull, gluing his lips to yours, licking hard and fast as he worked on you. You gave one lunge upward and climaxed with a moan of his name, gasping as the pleasure swirled around you and then concentrated on the center of your being. As you relaxed he eased up to touches and kisses that didn't over stimulate. You took great sobbing breaths and reached down to pet the hair you had pulled.

"Fuck, I need you, I need you, I need you," he breathed out, his tone like gravel, and it almost sounded like he was confessing his love for you, but maybe it was just your imagination or what you thought you heard.

In an instant he moved back down, kissing softly before rubbing with the tip of his tongue. He licked and tickled and slid well moistened fingers into you to bring back the heat, teasing you for only a couple of moments, making sure you were nice and ready for him. When your fingers started to tug at his hair again, he moved upward, sliding his body along yours, pinning you with his superior weight.

"I'm going to make you feel so good, baby, exactly how you deserve it," he told you around an indrawn hiss. He kissed you and you leaned into it, your tongue meeting his, flicking the moisture from his lips. You tasted yourself, slick and soft and salty. The warmth of your own aroma filling the room. His hair spilled across your face, cocooning you into a kiss that drew the very breath from your lungs. When your breath was sobbing in your throat he released you and moved back down your body, his erection trailing fire as it traced along the line of your belly down lower.

"Please give it to me, Tooru, please, I need it," you begged, your voice completely and utterly breathless.

"Oh I'm going to give it to you alright," he purred low in his throat. You lifted up and he positioned himself. He held himself and stroked upwards, pulling the foreskin back and running the sensitive head along the wet, soft bloom of you, rolling your clit around in slow, circles before he slipped downwards and pressed at your opening. You thrust upward, seeking to capture him. He teased you once, twice, and then thrust forward as you pushed against him.

Thick and long, he slid deep into you, grunting with pleasure as your hot inner walls clenched around him immediately. It was almost enough to drive him over the edge, but he paused, and regained control. He took a deep breath and thrust hard into you after he gave himself a moment. You felt spread and stretched because of his size, but you absolutely loved the sting as he sunk into your slick passage. Spurred on even more, you lifted one leg slightly to give him better access.

He moved slightly and put a strong hand under your thigh, helping to hold your leg up. It sent his cock into you at a better angle, allowing him to hit that sweet spot inside of you. The burst of pleasure you felt was like an electric shock. You started pushing down, wiggling your hips to press into him harder. He obliged you, sliding deep into you only to withdraw almost completely and then rolled forward again. You rose to meet him, surging forward like the tide, surrounding him, completely relentless in your pace.

"Fuck, you're squeezing me so tight, I can't fucking get enough of it," he hissed out, breath growing more ragged by the second. You pushed upward as he thrust, withdrawing as he pulled out. You found his rhythm and matched it, mimicking him as close as possible. Your muscles gripped him tighter, refusing to ever let him go as you both rolled together. As your passion rose higher he accompanied you.

It was a dance and he both led and followed. He thrust and churned, within you, his lips scorching over the flesh on your chest and breasts, alternately sucking and gasping as he found and gave pleasure. He twisted more, lifting your leg higher and rammed himself deeper into you, searing your inner walls with demanding movements of his hips. Your motions grew more desperate, more ragged as you both neared climax. He shut his eyes tight, doing his best to hold on even as his body threatened to tip over the edge.

As you felt your orgasm approaching, he changed to rhythmic thrusting that rocked you with a steady beat. There was nothing in the universe but the two of you and the stars that looked down unmoved by your heated desire. Your eyes dilated with lust, and you were blind to everything except both of your pleasure. You were faintly aware that he was there whispering sweet nothings in your ears as he slammed his hips into you harder, faster, it was everything you needed. You reached your orgasm first, arching so high and hard that you lifted him up, your inner walls clenching and milking him, your pleasure sending him crashing into his own climax.

He cursed low and deep, his words rumbling in his chest as he rammed forward again and again, filling you. He froze, shivers chasing each other up and down his spine as his body pumped into you. The aftershocks made him jerk inside you, bringing forth soft moans of completion and pleasure. He was completely spent as you were. His muscles had gone slack with satiation and he rolled to the opposite side of you as he stared at you with heavily lidded eyes, panting hard as he laid a hand over his chest. You laid there for a long moment, attempting to get your breathing under control and just soaking up what just occurred before you finally turned to look at him with a weak smile on your face.

"Feeling better now?" he asked, still out of breath, a long smirk playing on his lips.

"Mhmm," you told him and rested your head on his bare chest. He stroked your hair with his hand, toying with the strands as he let out a sigh of contentment. One of his arms securely wrapped around your waist, and your legs were tangled together, the slight chill in the air was no match for your shared body heat. You made a pleased little noise as you nuzzled closer to the warmth of his chest.

"You don't need to worry about a thing, Y/N, you've already got me," he reassured with a small chuckle. "I didn't know you could be so cute when you were jealous though, it's a good look for you," he teased, and you let out a puff, feeling your cheeks light up with embarrassment.

"That wasn't cute, stop it, meanie," you moved back slightly to nudge him in the chest with your elbow, and he laughed at that. You leaned in to press a soft, chaste kiss on his lips, silently thanking him for tonight. You reached out to grab his hand and he took yours in an instant, entwining your fingers together in a tight lock. He lifted your hand up to place a quick kiss upon it before he dropped it back down.

"Thank you," you whispered as you looked up at him with a soft smile.

"I should be the one thanking you for that orgasm, and for letting me fuck you, you felt fucking amazing," he said with a low, possessive growl as he yanked you closer, making you emit a loud giggle from the affectionate gesture.

You didn't have anything to worry about, like he said, he was yours, and now you couldn't even remember why you were jealous in the first place as you snuggled up to him and fell asleep listening to the sound of his steady heartbeat.

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[ctl-yuejie]

How the diverse world of the addictive tv series “Cherry magic” got made

(interview with scriptwriter Yoshida Erika by Yokogawa Yoshiaki)

沼堕ち続出ドラマ“チェリまほ”の多様な世界はどうやって作られたのか【脚本家・吉田 恵里香さん】2020.12.22  横川 良明

for @howdydowdy because we were talking about what a fantastic character Fujisaki is and the notion of consent when it comes to reading someone’s mind

Currently, societal values continue to change rapidly. On one hand the movement of respecting each other’s diverse individualities and making it easier for each and every one to live in society has become more active, one the other hand it is not a rare occasion to be lost for words when suddenly unconscious discriminatory biases – derived from not being able to cut loose old values that are rooted deep in oneself – raise their heads.

How should we exist within this period of polarization? This series is to create the opportunity to think about this topic by having discussions with the toprunners in the entertainment world. The person I am introducing for the first edition is screenwriter Yoshida Erika.

She is behind the script of “Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!”, the tv series that has grabbed the first spot on the oricon satisfaction ranking for 4 weeks in a row, and has gained fast popularity despite its late-night spot. The enthusiasm for the show can be attributed to the soft view Ms. Yoshida has on the world.

Yokogawa Yoshiaki (YY): I am happily watching the series. I really liked the original work, however the way it was adapted to a television format has been brilliant. One big thing is the making of the character of Kurosawa played by Machida Keita. By Adachi’s magic (played by Akasouji Eiji), the voice of Kurosawa’s heart spills out, and while the original text had him be quite blatant in his expressions overall, the drama carefully examines them.

Yoshida Erika (YE): That is definitely where there is a difference in depth. The original has the premise of a work in the BL genre, readers are expecting a BL-like development, so they can take such things in stride, but the viewership of the tv series is more varied. Under them there might be people who do not like BL. That is why I was conscious about how different people from different backgrounds might watch this show.

It is not okay to assault someone just because you were invited to their house, kissing or touching without consent is not okay and being of the same or different sex makes no difference in this. Treating such things as okay because it is BL would be rude to the parties concerned. Because we are using the BL genre, we want to specifically protect the “firsts” of the parties concerned. That is something the producer Ms. Honma Kanami and the director agreed about and I therefore paid extra attention to.

YY: Adachi himself, as he is about to step into Kurosawa’s house thinks “Not that I might possibly get assaulted?!”, and is very vigilant, but with some soul-searching realizes that that is rude towards Kurosawa. To say it briefly, you can feel the probity of the creators.

YE: I thought that a main character that thinks that he will get assaulted when he steps into the house of someone will not be loveable. No matter how well received the person is who acts it out, if we cannot love them on a human level, this drama will not work. Adachi’s power to read people’s hearts is also the action of seeing people’s darker sides on his own volition. That’s why a character we cannot love as a person will receive push-back by the viewers.

YY: Just like you said, the act of reading peoples’ hearts includes great violence. That is why I think that when he realizes that Kurosawa has fond feelings for him, unlike the original where he reads Kurosawa’s heart on purpose, the drama treats it as an accidental force. Over the whole series, it is of focal importance that Adachi doesn’t overuse his magic.

YE: That is where we were extremely careful. In the manga easy comprehensiveness is important and that type of suspense is interesting - and we don’t intend to deny that - but if you do it as a drama, I didn’t want to make him into a young man using his powers at ease. That is why, especially in the first half, he decides and tries very hard not to use his powers when possible. The scene where he reads the CEO’s heart appears in the first issue of the original, but in the drama we pushed it back to the 5th episode. We made it a point to illustrate how Adachi is filled with the emotion to help Kurosawa and that is why he uses his powers.

                                                       -

That what I don’t want others to do unto me, I do not want to inflict on characters.

                                                       -

YY: His colleague Fujisaki (Satou Ryo) is a Fujoshi in the original and that premise was cut from the series. If you decided to have a Fujoshi character on a prime time show, did you think that misunderstandings might arise easily?

YE: That was definitely a thought. In BL as a genre it is not an issue that a character exists that takes the same viewpoint as the reader, and I love Fujisaki in the original, but the people who are acting it out in reality are real people. At that point, loudly fawning about someone else’s’ love life is not perceived as good conduct. At the least, I thought that I wouldn’t want to be treated like that.

YY: It is fine to envision fictional characters as romantic partners, but it is different when you make a real acquaintance the target of that.

YE:

A thought we had was that if Adachi and Kurosawa were to really date it would be one thing, but grinning at someone - who might even be heterosexual – because you inflate your own BL adjacent delusion isn’t much different from a man grinning at a woman with big breasts and calling her sexy. I wouldn’t want to get treated that way, so I didn’t want to inflict that on the characters in the story as well.

When it comes to Fujisaki it isn’t like she isn’t a Fujoshi. We do not clearly state it, but I thought there was no reason to show it in the drama. 

YY: You are saying, that it is fine that people might interpret Fujisaki as a Fujoshi when she is smiling at Adachi and Kurosawa.

YE: Yes. That is where you are free to imagine (laughs).

YY: What I thought was very fresh is that instead of proclaiming her to be a Fujoshi, Fujisaki is turned into someone who “is happily living her daily life even without romantic love”. We don’t often get characters like that in Japanese tv series.

Personally, I also like romantic tv series, but while feeling venerated when the main characters have realized their love in the final episode, when trying to build a romantic connection to someone else in real life it might not go well and beyond that, it is not that it never happens that I, who also holds interests in other things than romance, end up feeling empty because of the lonely feeling of having been left behind (when watching a romance on tv unfold).

But with having Fujisaki appear, it felt like I got rescued.

YE: Until now, for several projects I made the suggestion of a character that is not interested in romance, but I wasn’t understood. “Is it necessary to do that?” “Aren’t you overthinking it?” were things I got told often.

But with this production, when I said that I wanted Fujisaki to be asexual or aromantic, no one denied me. From that stage on I thought that this place was a good one, and thanks to the original writer giving her agreement it got turned into reality.

YY: Since this kind of character hasn’t really appeared in a tv series, it felt like people like Fujisaki were assigned to be non-existent in this world. But thanks to you envisioning her like this, seen from a person that like Fujisaki might say “I got used to acting “normal”” and feel a notion of despair when confronted with people not understanding them, it felt like it got emphasized that people like her also exist in our society. Picking such little voices feels like it is one of the purposes of entertainment.

YE: If that could become the case I would be glad about it. 10 to 20 years prior, a “fairytale gay” (describing the flamboyant gay friend, that mentally supports the heroine by giving some harsh but accurate advice) often appeared in tv series from abroad, but this portrayal slowly changed, finally it has reached the point where the view point that being gay isn’t something special has penetrated the public.

So this time, I believe that one of my duties was to tell the story of people that are not interested in romance or people who do not only love one person, not from a standpoint that is convenient for consumption, but to have properly realized characters up to their individual backgrounds.

                                                     -

I hope the time comes where it isn’t necessary to especially say “This is a BL series”

                                                      -

YY: Please let me speak on something that has confused me this far. Prior, when you explained Fujisaki in context of the script, it felt like it wasn’t okay to call her asexual or aromantic because she herself doesn’t use any of those labels. I was somewhat afraid that an outsider would just selfishly declare that “you are asexual, aren’t you!?” in regards to someone who hasn’t professed anything.

YE: There is the point of both of the terms asexual and aromantic not being widely known in Japan as much as compared to overseas and I also think there are people who just wouldn’t use these words. Even when you think you are not interested in romance at the moment, it could also be that you just haven’t found the person that makes you feel that way. That’s why I can understand how labelling someone has a violent notion.

YY: My next question is also relating to that: This applies to Cherry Maho, but generally when I write about over works that feature a lovestory between men I try not to use the word BL.

This is my own opinion but to me it feels like the term BL has too much of a sexual image.

In private I casually use the word BL. However, for the content of an article that is read by an unspecified number of people, I remember stumbling over labelling something as BL. Using BL as an easy genre specifier has the effect that there will be a layer that won’t get looked at. I simply want to have more people enjoy a piece of work. I don’t object to the editor using BL in the title but in the content I write, I try not to use the term BL story but simply “love story between two men” and keep it close to how you’d address it in reality.

YE: I understand that. Obviously, I don’t intend to shame the taste of people that like BL. However, I understand that there are people that feel a sense of resistance towards BL as a genre. That is why I also don’t use the word BL when I promote on twitter. I do think that it would be great to have a new word.

Just like women have things they don’t want to be subjected to, men also have things they don’t want to be subjected to. This kind of awareness has become more broadly spread bit by bit. However, in order to have it really penetrate society it needs for the voices of the affected people to be heard. But it is also the reality of today’s society that violence is directed at people that raise their voice. That is why I feel like it is the job of the people that create tv shows to speak up instead.

At the least, that is how I want to straightforwardly create the world, so that in 10 years without directly stating “this is a BL series” we have a society that takes it in as a “new cool romantic drama beginning” with “the leads being actor x and actor z” and as nothing unusual.  Now we really have such a transitional period, and as a writer I want to build the steps towards it.  

                                                          -

original article: https://mi-mollet.com/articles/-/27045?page=3&per_page=1

[sagemusesoutloud]

Anti-Romantic, Part 2

(credit to the original owner of the image)

Character | Jaehyun x reader

Genre | nonidol!au, Mutual Pining, Slowburn, Fluff

WordCount | 2 K (bitesized for your convenience lol)

Author'sNote | I know this is kinda short, but I've decided not to rush the ending. I'm for sure not drag it out too much, but the slowburn reaaaally got to me and I ended up liking more than I orginially thought, so! I'll be back to post Part 3 tomorrow!

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4

I know that you love me, It makes me deeply drunk

You’re like champagne, I shouldn’t do this

You’re at the base of the stairs to your apartment complex when he pulls up. The window on the passenger side rolls down.

“Hurry! I think they’re about to wash the machines at the ice cream shop!” he reaches over and opens your door while you grab your two bags and your pillow. You loved him, you really did, but he had the flattest, most uncomfortable pillows in the world in his guestroom.

“What? Why didn’t you stop there before picking me up? It’s not like you don’t know what I like.” You’re trying to move all your stuff to the backseat as he pulls away.

He sighs, “Thank you Jae, you’re so nice to pick me up,” he mutters. You’d be a bit apologetic if it wasn’t for the grin he was trying to hide. “I’ve already spent most of my ‘special’ day alone, thanks to someone who had to bail on me. I wanna spend the rest with you.”

“I knew it, it bothered you didn’t it?” You accused while fastening your seatbelt. “Next time, just tell me, I know it seems as if I know everything but I actually can’t read minds.” You knew he was just messing with you but for some reason his words cut at the guilty feeling you were trying to push away. “I actually got you something this time around, it’s why I wanted to see you before the day ended.”

Jae parks the car outside the shop before turning to you, “wait, did you really get me something?” You sigh, offended, “well, if you don’t want it or don’t like the idea of it, then I can still return it.”

“I just thought of you when I saw it…” crap, it’s too soon for you to go anywhere near that subject.

“That’s not what I meant,” he shakes his head, “It’s just been a while since we shared birthday gifts.” You look away from him. If he kept this up, you’ll start to regret calling him. Your hands were slightly shaking with the effort of not reaching over and pouring all your feelings into him. Unlike what you’re used to, he was dressed down with a simple t-shirt and grey sweats. He looked so soft, and domestic. You hated how much you loved it. At least for work, you had both always been professionally dressed, which was a nice barrier for your thoughts. If you dressed professional, you felt professional. This helped control your thoughts. But now that you were here with him, it was definitely harder to keep track of your thoughts.

Today was a day for him, not for you. You took in a deep breath as you turn to look at the shop. It looked like they were getting ready to start closing duties. Even if you weren’t looking at him, you could feel your heart race with acute awareness to his proximity in the small car. He was waiting for a response.

You open your door, “yeah well…if we don’t hurry, we won’t get those diabetes-inducing bombs you’re so fond of. And this all would have been for naught.” You needed to get a grip, fast.

I can clearly see the end, Worse than a hangover

It will be hard, Now, Just end it somewhere here

“I can’t believe you told them it was my birthday,” he groaned, pushing off his shoes at the door. You followed suit.

“Of course I did, it meant free goodies!” You raise the plastic bag with macarons. “It just sucks that they’re all valentine’s themed.” You make your way to the kitchen to put away the snacks you brought, dumping your overnight bag at the door of the guestroom. Maybe if you kept the heart-shaped gift out of sight, it won’t make you as nervous with him.

“I brought your fave by the way, chocolate covered almonds and gummy bears,” you call out. He appears in the kitchen, hair out of his way with a headband. Be still my heart, you thought. You decide to hyper-focus on placing some snacks on a plate to bring to the living room.

“So, what’s the plan?” He reaches over you to grab a water bottle from the fridge, brushing your hip with his front. No no no no no no no!

Was he teasing you? You knew that your face would give you away, you could feel how warm your ears and cheeks were. You hated how honest your face was, and it didn’t help that Jae knew you like the back of his hand. Maybe this is how he is nowadays? Flirty and confident? You’d be lying if you didn’t find it attractive, but not when his attention was only directed at you. You felt like you were slowly suffocating but even that wouldn’t stop the warm light that seemed to burst from your chest.

It seemed so easy to pretend you were closer to him, to pretend this happened all the time. That you were close enough to reciprocate his flirty actions.

“uh, em,” you clear your throat, “actually, I remembered you wanting to see that movie last time we hung out. I have it ready in my apple tv account.” You back away with the tray, “can you also grab me a water?” your throat was suddenly parched.

You settle in the couch, grabbing the throw blanket behind you. Any physical barrier you could place between you, you’d take it gratefully. “You remembered? That was almost three months ago, when the trailer came out.” He handed you your water and grabbed at the corner of the blanket nearest to him, covering himself with it and moving closer to you so that you both could fit under it.

“Jae, there’s another blanket on your side of the couch,” you wanted to feel embarrassed but you just felt an unexpected giddy feeling at him wanting to be near you. “Yeah but it’s my birthday and this blanket is my favorite,” he says as he pulls you closer and wraps his arm behind you on the couch.

“here, put in your credentials so we can start the movie,” he hands you the remote.

You suddenly thank your lucky stars that the movie was an action packed one and not a romantic one. You couldn’t help but sink further into his side, wanting to be comfortable. As the movie starts, he takes the remote from your hand and wraps your arm around him. “I’m cold, keep me warm,” he mutters. Oh sweet Jesus.

Back in the day, this wouldn’t have been something new. Your friends knew you were very heavy with the affectionate touches. A hug, sharing seats, even holding hands. You never shied away from it because it was part of how you showed your friends that you loved them. Some of your friends were also this way, so it was never weird. But now that you’re older, and now that it’s been a long long time since you’ve been close to someone else, the once innocent touches Jae was giving you felt like hot brands across your shoulders and under your arm. If you focused enough, you could feel his hard work at the gym in the way your softness gave way to the hard contours of his leg that pressed against yours and how your shoulder leaned against his chest.

This was going to be a long movie.

You prayed that Jae wouldn’t ask you what the movie was about, you only had enough sanity to pay attention to the first fifteen minutes. It was all a blur after Jae pulled you half over on his lap, “you’re hogging the blanket, move over,” was the only excuse he gave.

Now, your legs were tangled with his and you sat almost on his lap, his arms encircling you from behind. He felt so soft and every little movement made your skin break out in goosebumps. You felt like a live wire about to explode.

“D-did you like it?” you started shifting to the side so you could face him but he held you tighter in place, resting his chin on your shoulder. “yeah, it was pretty good, we have to wait for the end credits though. I heard that they’re starting to give hints about The Eternals.”

“Did you like it?” he squeezes your middle.

Did you? You’re not sure, but you sure as hell loved the attention you were getting for the past two and half hours. “Yeah, all Marvel movies are great,” you finally concede.

“Wanna watch another one? You can pick this time,” his hand started tracing through your arm as you waited for the stupid end scene that was taking too long to start. Is it getting hot in here?

“Sure, whatever you want,” you mutter. He could have asked you for the most ridiculous thing and you would have still agreed to it.

Jae wakes with a start, the room was dark, the only light came from the still on TV. A show was playing softly, the clock under the tv read 3:45 am. He felt pretty hot, was the A/C not working?

He begins to shift when he realizes the position you both are in. Your legs were still tangled together, as if unconsciously refusing to let go of the proximity. You gripped his shoulder, your breath hitting his neck as you slept soundly on top of him. God, if this is a dream, let me never wake up, he thinks.

He usually hates being too close to someone, any sort of intimacy was bad news to Jaehyun. Either emotionally or physically, he kept everyone at a distance because he had seen it too often. How people settled for something they weren’t sure of and hurting those involved. He was aware he was too logical sometimes, but it’s what he knew to protect himself. Moments like these, they only lead to expectations and empty feelings, leaving behind only pain that even time couldn’t heal sometimes.

But why was he finding it so hard to untangle himself from your embrace? He should go to his bed and sleep comfortably, but at the same time, having you in his arms felt just right. Like two pieces of a puzzle finally coming together.

He could smell the light scent that was you and it almost made him squeeze you closer, as if it was possible. You smelled of spring, a light floral scent that reminded him of better days.

He was glad he woke up, he was going to enjoy every second of peace this brought him. He would store it in a little box and hold on tightly when the cold reality came back. As he fought with his drowsiness, he felt you nestle closer. He kissed the crown of your head as he finally gave in to sleep. I hope I dream of you… If this was love, he finally understood why sometimes the pain was worth a shot.

So stupid, sweet love song, extravagant rom-com

As much as I was happy, on the receipt there’s a red line

EndNote | I know this chapter was pretty short. In all honesty, I had written something else before deleting it entirely and starting again, but I really like the direction the story is going now. Hopefully I can update Part 3 tomorrow, but I'm really excited about it!

Previous: Part 1 | Next: Part 3

[geeks-universe]

Veritas Vos Liberabit V

The truth will set you free.

Previous Part

Next Part

Tag List: @the-british-koala @ilearnedthatfromethepizzaman @shadowalley 

“You’re not fooling anyone,” John muttered, watching his friend from the doorway.

He’d been standing there for the past few minutes, waiting for Sherlock to acknowledge him. It really didn’t come as a surprise when he didn’t, but John figured he’d take the opportunity to study Sherlock.

The good doctor certainly wasn’t as perceptive as Sherlock. He would never claim to be. He did, however, believe himself to be rather smart, especially on the subject of human feelings. Now, John was not an idiot when it came to Sherlock, and he could tell that his best friend was very much becoming obsessive in his effort to solve whatever mystery he seemed to think revolved around you.

There were certainly some things that made you special, but you were rather open about your past and your own thoughts. It was actually a bit frustrating to John that Sherlock was so concerned about learning everything there was to know about you, yet he hadn’t just asked you. Mycroft had been a bit miffed about his interaction with you the day before, and had been around first thing in the morning to complain about it.

John found it rather funny how put out the elder Holmes brother had been, but he noticed the telltale glint in his eyes. As much as he wanted to deny it, he knew that Mycroft had fallen victim to your charms just as every other person he’d encountered had.

“I’ve no idea what you’re talking about,” Sherlock huffed, slipping his coat on while he stared out of the window.

John blew a sigh from his lips, wondering how somebody so incredibly smart could be so blind to their own emotions at the same time.

“Why don’t you ask her on a date, Sherlock?”

He’d never seen Sherlock’s head whip around so quickly. The man looked terrified, which, to be fair, wasn’t far off the mark. Sherlock’s heart pounded against his ribs, a strange reaction to such a mundane suggestion, to be sure. He sputtered for a moment, unsure if he should be angry or appalled.

He settled for some weird combination of the two.

“I don’t date, John,” he spat rather forcefully, “Especially not-”

“John!” You called in greeting, taking the stairs two at a time.

The smile on your face was radiant, and Sherlock glared down at his own chest when the rhythmic beating of his heart only seemed to speed up. You were holding your phone to your ear still, a muffled voice talking from the other end. 

“Sherlock,” you greeted, “Hi.”

He pulled his lips into a smile, but continued to study your every move.

“Yes, yes,” you replied to whoever was on the other end of the phone, “I’m perfectl-”

You frowned at the phone briefly, before a rather embarrassed, yet fond, smile replaced it.

“Dad, stop worrying so much,” you breathed out a laugh. “I have to go.”

There was more talking on the other end, which you were incapable of stopping, before you finally hurried out an, “I love you too,” and hung up.

“Sorry, he worries too much,” you explained to your friends, slipping your phone into your back pocket as you approached John.

There was no hesitation as the two of you embraced in a brief hug. Sherlock found himself pouting- no, not pouting, he doesn’t do that- at the apparent familiarity between you and John. Obviously, you were both comfortable with one another. He squinted his eyes, trying to decipher if it was a friendly comfort or a romantic one.

“Maybe he should,” John teased with a smile, “You did walk towards the man with the gun, rather than away.”

The two of you shared a little laugh, amplifying Sherlock’s sudden uneasiness at the thought of there being some sort of romantic involvement written between the lines of your exchanges.

But why would John suggest that he ask you on a date if he was interested?

This, he acknowledged with some amount of annoyance, was the exact reason why he despised human connections. How was he expected to just read your intentions and John’s intentions and his own intentions?

“Hey, did you want something too?” You inquired, suddenly a lot closer to Sherlock than you’d been previously.

He blinked, caught off guard by your change in position. Clearly, he’d been inside his own head for too long again.

A few deductions paired with his piercing gaze was all it took for him to realize that you were referring to food.

“I’ll have whatever you have.”

John didn’t need to examine the scene any further to realize it was another one of Sherlock’s ploys to understand you better. Of course his friend wasn’t going to normalize his strategy. He wanted to solve you, like a puzzle.

John hid his flash of annoyance as he ordered the takeout, trying to discover another way for Sherlock to realize that you might actually be good for him. Now, John wasn’t much of a matchmaker, but he thought the two of you would go rather perfectly together, and Mrs. Hudson agreed.

He just needed Sherlock to see that.

And maybe you too, since you didn’t seem like the type to just swoon over someone.

“I’m going to pick it up,” John announced, surprising even himself at the sudden declaration.

You stood up, obviously ready to escort him, but John shook his head. 

“Keep Sherlock out of trouble,” John argued, nodding his direction to his flatmate. “I’ll be right back.”

There was a clear hesitation, like you didn’t think it was the courteous thing to do, but John brushed you off. He was going to make a stop to see Mrs. Hudson and have a quick chat about the two of you, the last thing he needed was you tagging along.

“Be safe!” You called out after him as he descended the stairs, waving a hand goodbye.

“Are you engaging in romantic affairs with John?” The question was fired in your direction the minute John was out of earshot.

You opened your mouth, then closed it again, your head tilting to the side at the strange turn of events.

“I-what?” You fumbled for the correct words, giggling a little as you did so. “No, John is just a friend.”

Sherlock hummed, not entirely convinced as he looked you over. His mind was moving a mile a minute, categorizing each piece of information he could discern from your person. It wasn’t a lot, but it was helping to build a more sturdy profile of who you were.

“Sherlock,” you interrupted, pressing your hand to his cheek.

His mind stopped.

Billions of neurons ceased fire, a momentary blip in their ever progressing task. It wasn’t like a sudden braking, where the tires screeched against the ground and the force of motion pushed the passengers forward with a potency capable of snapping necks. No, this was a total pause of everything that made Sherlock, Sherlock.

For just a fraction of a fraction, all he knew was the world being born in the fire of your eyes, and the spark created from the gentle warmth of your touch.

And then, it began again.

The world was spinning once more, his brain working just as it had before, only, tucked in the very back of his mind was the feeling of your hand on his cheek.

“What do you see when you deduce me?”

Your question was barely a whisper in the charged air between the magnetism of his mind and your heart.

“Contradictions,” he answered, staring directly into your gaze as he did so.

There was an echo of a smile on your lips, a brief upturn as you imagined how that might look. It was impossible to perceive the world through his mind, but you tried nonetheless.

“I feel like that’s not a good thing,” you joked, pulling your hand from his cheek and your eyes to your lap.

A coolness replaced your warmth, and Sherlock frowned as he filed that bit of information away.

“It makes you more interesting than most people,” he admitted on a murmur, watching with a bit of concern as you rubbed just above your heart.

The expression on your face was one of discomfort.

“How’d you hurt it?” He nodded where you were still positioning your hand, an attempt to shield the area from further harm.

You leveled him with a stare, not missing a beat.

“Sex,” you replied. “Got a bit more rough than expected.”

“You’re lying,” he tried, narrowing his eyes as he stared at the spot you were injured in, like if he did so for long enough he might be able to actually figure it out.

“Am I?” Your face betrayed nothing, a faux innocence in your gaze.

“What was his name?” Sherlock challenged.

“Who said anything about a man?” You shot back, rising to the provocation he posed.

“How’d it happen?”

“You want all of the intimate details?” You tsked, running your tongue along your teeth. “Sherlock Holmes, you are a surprise.”

His lips turned up for a moment.

“You are an excellent liar.”

You maintained eye contact from beneath your lashes, shrugging your shoulders.

“I’m a bit more like my uncle than I like to give myself credit for.”

The rest of the wait for John was spent in silence as you continued to observe one another- you with an air of disinterest and Sherlock with an eagerness he could barely contain. It seemed the more he learned about you, the more questions he had.

John looked less than pleased when he entered the room to find you guys were not, in fact, making out on the couch like horny teenagers.

“John!” You perked up, breathing in the smell of warm takeout.

“You’re a life saver,” you moaned, causing Sherlock’s hand to twitch at the sinful noise.

The tips of John’s ears turned red, but he didn’t comment on it as he laid a spread of food on the table.

“I hope everyone’s hungry,” he said, gesturing to the food, “I ordered a bit too much.”

“I can’t believe I missed out on this for so long,” you commented, twirling a pile of steaming vegetable lo mein on your fork before you even sat down.

“Was your dad not a fan of it?” John asked, taking a seat by your side as he grabbed himself a plate.

Sherlock still hadn’t gotten up from his spot in his chair, but he was attentive to the conversation between John and you.

“Oh, uh, it wasn’t really something we did when I was younger,” you explained, not giving a lot of detail, but not outright lying either.

Sherlock frowned. You had never really told John a lie. Actually, you hadn’t really told anyone a lie, besides him, and even that was something you admitted to right away.

He hesitantly filed away the belief that you were an honest person in the special place reserved for facts about you as he stood up to join the two of you.

From there on, Sherlock was more of an active participant in the chatting, though he didn’t find it nearly as dreadful as he thought it would be. John was all too happy to have him joining in, still rather put out that his plan hadn’t panned out the way he was hoping.

Though, before he came back up the stairs with the food, Mrs. Hudson had assured him that there was no way that Sherlock Holmes and (Y/N) Morningstar wouldn’t inevitably gravitate towards one another.

And who could argue with Mrs. Hudson’s intuition?

[miss-scientia]

Unrequited Love

Hi all, (everyone who is still here that is!) just a random post by me! Not totally random actually. I was just going through my old documents and I found a FFXV one shot I had completely finished but never posted for some reason. I re-read it and actually quite liked it, so I thought I’d stop by and post it for anyone still around! It’s a bit of slight Noctis angst, I hope you enjoy if you read! 

(Also, I stop by from time to time and see notifications still popping up. You are all still so lovely!)

Prompto x Reader x Noctis (kind of!) SFW This is a long one!

She had confessed her feelings to him at the beginning of their journey, but he’d rejected them to stick to his duty. After a while she moved on and started dating Prom, which is... great! Fantastic really! Then why did he feel so shitty...?

Noctis was sure, he thought to himself as he shuffled around in his sleeping bag, that the six had a pretty sick sense of humour. They had to have, judging by his current predicament. Either that, or he had done something really, really, really bad in a past life to deserve this. 

Gods above it wasn’t fair. 

It wasn’t fair that he was the one chosen to be the king of kings, having his future laid out and already planned for him. It wasn’t fair that he had to marry Luna, an area in life where he ought to have control, yet had none. And it certainly wasn’t fair that the actual girl he was in love with, was with someone else. 

And that someone was his best friend. 

To make matters worse, she had previously admitted feelings for Noctis too, early on in their journey. But he’d had to say no, that he was already betrothed to another, that he couldn’t do that to Luna or his family. A familiar sinking feeling clawed at Noctis’ gut as he recalled that day, the regret of his words churning in his stomach. 

What an idiot. 

How different life could’ve been if he’d only told her how he felt that day. Instead, he had kept his lips sealed and she had moved on. Unfortunately, to a certain blond haired sharp shooter. 

Although he had his back to them, Noctis could hear them both now, whispering to each other in a shared sleeping bag. Did they have to be so... so affectionate? Constantly touching, constantly giggling. It was like they lived to torture him. 

Noctis stifled a groan, the pit in his stomach growing ever deeper. The whispering of the two finally ceased, and Noctis was about to send a silent thanks to the gods, before an odd sound stopped him. 

Are they...? 

A sharp wet sound emanated from behind him, confirming his suspicions. They were making out, completely unaware of the wide awake prince laid only mere inches away from them. 

I must’ve done something absolutely awful in a previous life. 

Before he could prevent it, a perfect picture of the scene behind him had appeared in his mind; her wrapped tightly against Prompto’s body, his arms tight against her, pulling her to his frame. Their lips locked in a heated kiss, eyes communicating their sheer desperation for each other. 

It was like a knife had impaled his stomach. The mental image paired with the the all too real sounds behind him was enough to make him queasy. The thing was though, he couldn’t even find it in himself to be angry at either of them. He had rejected her, and she had ended up with Prom - why shouldn’t they have got together? It was neither of their fault, no. Could he even blame himself however? Was it his own fault, even though he’d been born into this life with all of his future, all of his destiny already set out for him? Was it his fault for following his duty? He wasn’t certain, but he was damn sure that it sucked. 

Curling his fingertips into the soft material of his pillow, Noctis attempted to block out the almost heavenly sighs that fell from her lips. Slowly he drifted off, plagued with thoughts of how if only he had the chance, he could make her sigh like that... 

- 

The ever delicious scent of Ignis’ cooking drifted to your nose as the evening meal was presented to you and your camp mates. Your stomach grumbled in anticipation, desperate for fuel after the exhausting day you’d all had. “I dunno if it’s because I’m ravenous, or if you’ve done an extra special job of it tonight Iggy, but this is the best meal I’ve ever laid my eyes upon!” Your boyfriend Prompto sighed dramatically from beside you, eyes lighting up as he was handed his food. 

“Kid’s right Iggy, this is good stuff.” Gladio nodded, already digging into his larger than average portion. 

“Mmmmph...” came your almost orgasmic sigh of agreement. 

“Well, thank you everyone, but I dare say that I haven’t done anything extra special tonight. Perhaps we were all ready for a meal after our rather busy day.” Ignis modestly brushed aside the compliments, but you could tell he was pleased by the corners of his mouth rising, fighting to hide the beam threatening to reveal itself. 

You were halfway through your food before you realised that Noctis hadn’t said a word since sitting down. Casting your eyes over to the prince, you saw his figure sitting rather slumped over on the floor opposite you. One hand gripped a fork rather loosely as he stabbed the utensil repeatedly into the same carrot, in and out, over and over. His brow line puckered slightly, the hints of a frown forming over his dull looking eyes. It struck you that he sort of looked like... he was sulking. And now you thought about it, he’d been really grumpy all day, unresponsive and quiet. 

Wonder what’s up with him? You thought, glancing once more. Strands of his jet black hair fell into his eyes, causing him to blink those long lashes and sweep his head slightly to clear his vision. 

Your heart stuttered. 

As much as you didn’t want it, he was still able to get you like that. One little move of his head or gesture of his hands, and it shook you again just how pretty he was. 

It truly was hard to forget about your first love. 

Drawing your eyes away you searched for another familiar pair, gaze landing on the ever smiling, ever warm face of your boyfriend and immediately you felt better. As much as Noctis could sometimes catch you off guard, you knew for certain you loved Prompto. There was no doubt there. 

“You okay [Name]?” His kind face and genuine smile had you smiling back instantly. 

“Sure am Prom.” You replied, resting a hand on his knee. Naturally, his hand rested on top of yours, warm and safe. 

“What’s the matter with you prince sulks?” Gladio voiced your earlier question, albeit a little more teasingly. Everyone stopped eating to glance over at the Prince in question. 

Noctis shot Gladio a glare, his eyes clearly saying ‘don’t even start’. 

“Is there something on your mind that you wish to share?” Ignis asked this time, much more accommodatingly. 

“No. Why, does it look like it?” His voice was gruff, annoyed. There was definitely something up. 

“Well, you’ve not really said much since coming back, and you’ve barely touched your food.” You offered. 

“Yeah pal, is there anything we can help with?” Prompto offered his best friend, leaning forward so he could pat his leg. 

Finally Noctis looked up, but as you caught his expression your heart sank. He looked mighty pissed. 

“I said there isn’t anything. Why do you guys have to push me all the time?” 

Prompto blinked, taken aback by his friend’s blunt tone. 

“I just wanted to see if there’s anything I could do to-” 

“Well there isn’t Prompto. There’s nothing that anyone can do, okay?” The prince snapped, rising to his feet. 

Prompto’s face fell, and that was like someone had pressed the anger button on inside you. You were suddenly furious. How could he talk like that to his best friend? 

“What the hell is up with you?” Standing to your feet, you walked over to the sulky prince. 

“Nothing, [Name].” 

“Nothing? So you think you can talk to people like that because... because nothing?” 

Noctis looked at you, fully frowning now, agitation apparent in his ocean blue eyes. 

“Guys, I think we should just cool it...” Prompto’s quiet voice attempted to cut the tension which was now crackling in the air. 

“I agree, Noctis I’m not sure what’s wrong, but we must-” 

“I’d have been fine if people had just left me alone.” Noctis cut over Ignis. 

“Sorry that people care about you.” You retorted, anger still clouding your better judgement. 

“Yeah well, I never asked for people to. I never asked for any of this.” 

“You ungrateful little-” 

“Noctis.” Gladio’s voice stopped you from finishing your sentence. He hadn’t shouted, hadn’t raised his voice, but his deep rumbling tone halted you. “I think you should go and take a walk. Cool down. Come back when you have a better head on, cause this is going no where.” 

“Tch, fine.” Noctis grumbled, but turned on his heel and stalked off into the night, leaving the four of you hurt, annoyed and confused. 

- 

The campsite seemed overly quiet now that the prince was gone, suffocatingly so. Every cough and every shuffle was heard, adding to the already tense atmosphere. 

“I just don’t understand. It’s not like him.” Prompto said for the fifth time. He was anxiously picking at the hem of his shirt, pulling at a loose thread. Every so often you had to lay your hand atop his to remind him to stop before it became threadbare. 

“I know what you mean, I don’t get what’s up with him.” Gladio sighed and stretched. 

“Perhaps his last comment gave us some insight? He said he never asked for any of this. He has never been overly fond on what his future holds in store for him...” Ignis offered a solution in a quiet speculative tone. You almost scoffed however.  

“It still doesn’t give him the right to talk to his best friend like dirt.” Prompto squeezed your hand in silent thanks, but you knew that the blond wasn’t even angry. In fact, you correctly assumed that he was more worried for Noctis’ safety right now. 

Pure person through and through. 

“I do wish we could know where he went.” Ignis sighed, guardian-like instincts kicking in. 

“I’m sure he’ll be fine specs, he’ll come back when he’s ready.” Gladio attempted to appease Ignis, to no avail. 

You had a pretty good idea of where Noctis might have headed to, thinking back to the car journey earlier on that day. The only time when the prince had shown remotely any interest in what was going on around him is when you had driven past a very large lake. It was highly plausible that he’d gone to check it out. The more you thought about it, the more that you were certain this is where he’d have headed. And the more you thought about it, the more you realised you could remember the way there. And the more you thought about that, the more you realised this was a good a chance as any to have a proper conversation with him. And to possibly lecture him on how to actually talk to his best friend. 

I can go there, yank him back here and make him apologise. 

Looking over at Prompto’s anxious face, his top front teeth gently nibbling on his lower lip, you knew this was the right thing to do. You stood up quite forcefully, drawing the attention of the other three boys. 

“[Name]...?” 

“I’m going to go find him, and bring him back. Then I’m going to get him to apologise.” 

Ignis sighed, Gladio nodded, and Prom... 

“Are you sure you want to do that [Name]?” He stammered, looking torn between some inner dilemma. 

“I’m sure. I think I know where to look, but I’ll be fine. I can’t have him talking to you like that Prom. I can’t.” 

“He was just angry, he didn’t mean it.” 

“Well then, he can just say sorry when I drag him back here.” You told Prompto with a reassuring smile. The blond boy finally smiled back, standing up to face you. 

“Thank you [Name]. Be safe.” He told you, and with a quick kiss you set off in search of one sulky prince to bring home. 

- 

Just as you’d expected, Noctis had made his way over to the lake that your group had passed earlier. You could see his silhouette from where you stood; his shadowed figure sat crossed legged on the wooden pier which stretched out into the middle of the lake. The perfect fishing spot, yet he wasn’t fishing. 

Well shit, there’s gotta be something really wrong with him then. 

It hadn’t taken you all too long to get there since you knew which paths to take, however it was still a rather long way away from where your group had pitched the tent. It had been a miracle that no daemons had attacked you, dark as it was out. You wondered how long the prince had been sat there, not fishing, just sitting and watching the lake. 

Taking a deep breath, you walked out from your hiding spot and marched all the way down to the lake, stopping to stand a few feet away from Noctis. He didn’t move upon your arrival, showed no sign that he was even aware of your presence. 

You cleared your throat. 

“Noctis?” 

“[Name]?” Was his reply, quiet but with a hint of sullen sarcasm you knew well. Swallowing the biting response you wanted to give, you instead replied; 

“What are you doing out here?” 

He didn’t answer straight away, still looking down at his hands. In fact, he took so long to answer that you weren’t sure if he’d even heard you. But then finally; 

“It’s peaceful out here. When it’s night like this, lakes always seem that much more... tranquil. Kinda makes me feel like time has stopped, at least in this little area, y’know?” His reply startled you a little, it hadn’t been what you were expecting. And looking around the lake, you could kind of see what he meant. But as lovely as the lake was, you weren’t here to discuss that. You had a purpose in mind for travelling all the way out here, and feeling sorry for the prince wasn’t it. 

“Noctis, I don’t really understand your train of thought right now, but what I do know, is that you snapped at everyone and left your best friend feeling highly confused and rather hurt.” He could probably hear the accusatory edge to your voice. 

Well, good. 

“Look, I didn’t mean to upset anyone. I just hate it when everyone is pushing me.” 

“Yeah, well y’did.” 

“I know that [Name].” He finally turned to look at you, those ocean blues flashing with a hint of frustration. “Don’t think I don’t know that, cause I do. It makes me feel worse than I already do, alright?”

You folded your arms. “Then come back and apologise.”

“Tch, I’m not going back there yet.” He mumbled, his eyes dropping once more. This only annoyed you further.

“So, it makes you feel bad, and yet... you’re not gonna apologise for what you’ve done? Is that it?”

“N-n... that’s not what I said.” The prince suddenly sprang to his feet, his body towering over you. He was getting worked up at your words, the biting remarks nibbling away at his ability to think clearly enough to explain himself coherently.

“You aren’t the only one going through some tough shit, okay?” You snapped, unaware at his inner turmoil.

“Obviously! I never once said- it’s really hard for me to- just stop pushing me, alright?”

“No. If you won’t apologise then we at least get to know what’s got that stick so far up your butt!” You drew yourself up to try and make yourself look taller. There was no way he was worming out of this one, and you could tell he knew. He could sense your determination, his eyes betraying the slightest hint of panic within the frustration.

“[Name], seriously, you-”

“No Noctis! We’re sick of it! We can’t even help you if you don’t explain.”

“You can’t help me.”

“Why not? What is it Noctis?” Your voice was sharp but your eyes were gentle. Underneath all of your annoyance, you really did just want to help your friend.

“[Name], really, you don’t-”

“What is it?”

“I’m telling you, you’re not-”

“What is it?”

“[Name]-!”

“Just tell me what it is!”

“It’s you!”

You paused, the words you were about to say dying in your throat. It was... you? You were the reason he was acting this way? Unease swirled in your stomach.

I’ve been making him feel like this...?

Noctis was almost panting, seeming out of breath from your shouting match. Although he seemed weary, he did not look as if he regretted saying so.

“It’s...me?” You whispered, his answer throwing you completely. Noctis sighed heavily, one hand rising to awkwardly scratch the back of his neck. Suddenly he almost seemed... tired.

“Look... that came out wrong, okay? It’s not... it’s not just you.”

“But I... I’ve done something to hurt you?” The crack in her voice at the end of the sentence physically pained him to hear, made him want to take back everything he’d just said. He’d suffer with it all internally if he never had to hear her sound pained again.

“[Name], it’s not something you’ve done. Please, just let it go.” Noctis pleaded, knowing his efforts would more than likely be futile. Slowly he turned away from her, walking once again to the edge of the wooden beams to sit down, dangling his legs only centimeters above the calm lake. Not looking at her made this easier. Her crumpled expression only further pained his heart, and it was getting hard to quell the need to comfort her as it was.

Gentle padding sounds as she walked to sit next to him told him she wasn’t going to give up that easily. Frustrated, he repressed a groan.

Not. Fucking. Fair.

“Noctis...whatever I’ve done, I want to know. It was never my intention to hurt you.”

Of course it wasn’t, pure soul that she was.

Her quiet tone caused him to sneak a peek at her from the corner of his eye. She was sat close to him, legs dangling, an almost mirror of his pose. All traces of previous anger had been washed from her face, instead, confusion and remorse took its place.

He hated that he was responsible for it.

“Honestly, there really isn’t anything you could have done about it. I’m not sure there’s anything anyone could have done about it. My future has been set since day one, I don’t have a say in this stuff... and I sure as hell don’t have a say in who I fall in love with either.”

A quick intake of breath from his immediate right caused him to realise what he’d just said out loud.

Shit!

His head snapped to look at her fully now. She was turned to him, eyes wide in shock as the realisation of what he’d just admitted sunk in. Quickly he began to try and explain.

“[Name], I-”

“That’s not fucking fair.” Her voice was dull as she cut over him. To his surprise, tears quickly gathered in the corner of her eyes which were rapidly becoming tinted with red. She was... really upset. He had been expecting anger. Not sadness.

“That’s really un-fucking-fair of you Noctis. You know... you know how I felt about you. It took a while to get over that rejection.”

“I’m sorr-”

“You don’t get to say that to me now Noctis! I’m with Prompto, I’ve moved on! I picked myself up and carried on living, you can’t just, just waltz back in and say that. It’s not fair!”

“I know.” He uttered, so softly it was as if he was speaking to himself. It was your turn to be surprised at the sadness of his tone. A few moments of silence passed between the both of you, your eyes trained on the almost black waters beneath you. It was hard to really believe what he’d admitted... he loved you?

Noctis broke the silence first with a soft sigh. Well, if the cat was out of the bag, he may as well try and explain himself.

“I tried so hard to stop it. Y’know? I knew it wasn’t fair, believe me, that’s all I’ve been saying these past few months. Not fair on you, Prom, or me. But, [Name],” He took a deep breath; “you’ve no idea how fucking hard it is when I see you cuddled up to him every night.”

Her eyelids fluttered shut as he spoke, a little pucker forming between her brows as she frowned slightly. There it was again, that look of pain. But he couldn’t stop explaining now he’d started, it would be better to get to the bottom of it.

“It’s not like I resent either of you. Honestly, I was happy for the both of you. But I also felt like absolute shit. Took me a while to realise why, guess I’ve never been one to be clued up about their emotions.”

That earned him a slight snort.

“Yeah, guess that’s no secret either, right?” His words were tinged with regret.

Chancing a glance her way he saw that her eyes were still closed. However, she made no move to stop him explaining, so he continued, eager to finally get it out in the open.

“So when I finally realised how I felt about you... well, the fact that it was far too late sucked. And it just got me thinking, if my life wasn’t so predestined, if I had even a little bit of control over areas of my life where I really should, then we’d be together. We’d be together right now [Name]. No pre-arranged wedding duties. And it’s just been eating at me how little of a choice I get over pretty much everything in my life. Then listening to you and Prom giggling and enjoying each other every night... I just wanted that.”

Finally he petered off, letting the weight of what he’d said hang in the air. It was like the burden had finally been lifted from his shoulders - she knew how he felt. He’d told her, in probably the longest speech he’d ever given in his life, and it just felt good to not have it burning him from the inside.

Although that may all go to shit the next time her and Prom start sucking face again. He almost grimaced at the thought.

The seconds ticked by in what felt like hours, she didn’t breath a word. Shyly Noctis turned to face her again, noticing her eyes were finally open, wide and [e/c], staring right back at him. The whites of her eyes were tinged a deeper red, and fresh tears had collected in her lids. His heart almost broke. He wanted to stop the crying, comfort her, take it all back, anything to stop her tears.

Undecidedly, he lifted his hand, fingers outstretched to rest on her shoulder, but froze in mid air.

“[Name], you don’t know how sorry I am.” He whispered, and she replied with a quiet sob from deep in her throat.

Before he knew what he was doing, the one sound caused him to finally reach out to her, close the distance between them. In no time at all, his strong arms were wrapped around her shoulders, her waist. Her head buried in the crook of his neck, holding her close as she sobbed. His fingers rubbed soothing circles into her back as he held her, noticing with a sick, ironic pleasure that they fit together so well. Like his arms had been made to fit her body exactly.

Could this get any worse? He was comforting her.

But she’s not yours.

They fit together perfectly, like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle together at last.

But she’s not yours.

She was all he wanted. But she wasn’t his to have.

Fuck, this sucks.

Noctis wasn’t sure how long he sat there, holding her. Time truly seemed at a stand still; they were lost in this little hidden part of nature. He wasn’t sure when her tears finally stopped, but he could feel her breathing return to normal, her silent sobs no longer racking her chest. Still, he couldn’t let her go. Didn’t dare move for fear of breaking this moment with her, her face gently buried into the side of his neck, wrapped in his embrace. He knew it would never happen again, despite how much he wanted it.

It couldn’t.

“Noctis?” Her voice was soft, thick from the tears she’d shed.

“Yes?” They were almost whispering, but in the tranquil quiet of the night, the sound seemed to echo in his skull.

“I’m in love with Prompto.”

“I know.” His reply was gentle, but the feeling in his heart was anything but. The admission shouldn’t have been a surprise to him, he’d known it for a while. He could tell just by how she looked at him, the pure adoration for Prom in her heart. It still hurt. He wished she’d look at him like that.

“I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” He uttered, one hand absentmindedly reaching up to tuck a stray hair back behind her ear.

“It’s me who should be apologising. To everyone back at camp, but mostly to you. It wasn’t fair for me to dump all of my baggage on you like that. I just... felt I had to.”

“No... I’m glad you did.” She had lowered her voice, and it came out slightly mumbled into his shoulder, but it meant the world to him anyway. It felt like she’d accepted what he said, and that was the best he could hope for right now.

“Thank you [Name].” He whispered, his voice trailing off, leaving what he wished he could say hanging in the air between them both.

I love you. 

[parkersjiggle]

I love jealous Tony ! It was a great read :) do you think you could do jealous Peter where they are in an established relationship ? Like at a restaurant an an old bf or gf of Tony comes up ☺️

Thank tou in advance 💜

Hi! Thank you! Here it FINALLY is, I hope you enjoy. ❤️

TW: jealous bimbo ex, non-consensual touching (?)

——————

Even though it’s been a year of being Tony Stark’s boyfriend, Peter still feels dizzy with admiration of how handsome his lover is, sharply dressed in an immaculate full-black suit and the midnight blue tie Peter helped pick out this morning.

He didn’t look too shabby himself with the crispness of his suit and the perfect tailoring Tony insisted on. Normally he would’ve complained, Peter already had a perfectly fine suit and he didn’t need Tony to spend even more money on him, but tonight was special. He wanted to look good for their anniversary, perfect for Tony.

Tony placed his arms around Peter, leaning closer to him. The softness and the gentle touch against his neck, made Peter’s back tingle. Whenever they were close like this his thoughts would usually stop as if his heart took over from his head. However, one thought seemed to remain tonight.

“You haven’t kissed me in like five whole minutes. It’s really upsetting.”

“Is that so, baby?” Tony smirked in a smug kind of way. “Let me make it up to you.” He gently leaned in, brushing his lips against Peter’s. Not innocently, like a tease but hot, fiery, passionate and demanding. Then he fully kissed him and the world fell away. It was slow and soft, comforting in ways that words would never be. Tony’s hand rested below Peter’s ear, his thumb caressing his cheek as their breaths mingled.

“M-much better.” He could feel the heat growing in his cheeks. By now they must be beyond an attractive rosiness. Peter had that kind of smile on his face that couldn’t hide the love that warmed him from within. It was a little silly how badly a simple kiss from Tony still affected him, how responsive he was to him.

It just felt so great to be loved. They were so relaxed in each other’s company, so caring. Their love for one another radiated from them. “That’s what I thought.” Tony winked at him, pulling his lover closer. His embrace was warm, and his big, strong arms seemed very protective when wrapped around the younger’s frail body. This was nice, perfect even, and he never wanted the moment to end. But then it did.

“Oh my gosh, Tony! Is that you? I can’t believe it!”

Peter really didn’t think he was the jealous type. That is until he sees the woman walking up to his boyfriend, acting as if Peter is nothing but mere air around them.

She was like all those models in the magazines, after they had been airbrushed of all the imperfections. Her butter colored hair fell perfectly around her shoulders, and she had the deepest blue eyes that could intimate even the strongest of men. Peter couldn’t help hating her, and that was before the introductions.

“Ah, Stacey. It’s been a while. Uh... Peter this is my old friend Stacey, Stacey this is Peter.” Tony pointed between the two of them, introducing them to one another.

“Oh please, Tony, we were more than friends, weren’t we?” She winked at him, completely ignoring Peter’s existence. And if Peter starts to see red when the long-haired blonde not so surreptitiously touches her hand on Tony’s arm, well, he has every reason to. This woman is blatantly flirting with his Tony, and that’s not okay. God, and that dress, the neckline of her shimmering gold gown dipped dangerously low, showing off her considerable assets. Peter nearly growled watching her.

He knew he should be used to it by now. Of course people would show an interest in Tony, who could blame them? An attractive, intelligent, billionaire who also happened to be a first class superhero. Peter got that, truly.

But he just really, really didn’t like it.

He didn’t want to cause a scene though, doesn’t want to wrap his fingers around her throat and use his super strength to make her eyes bulge out, definitely not, even though it would be very satisfying. Instead he tries to act mature, put on his big boy pants and show this blatantly transparent woman who Tony really belongs to.

“Hi, nice to meet you. I’m Tony’s boyfriend, Peter.” He then rested his arm on the back of Tony’s chair, brushing his fingers on Tony’s arm, just to let her know he wasn’t on the menu tonight. Tony was taken.

She scoffs, af if addressing her was the most offensive thing Peter could’ve done, and doesn’t waste any time in turning back to Tony. She flicks that butter blonde hair to one side in what he knows is a conscious act, Tony must see it too, right? Dangling from her perfect lobes are diamonds set in white gold. They are exquisite, accentuating the length of her neck. They probably cost more than most people make in a month. He realizes that he has held his gaze too long when her face turns into one of triumph.

She’d gaze through her overly made-up eyes with her cloying vapidity and laugh at anything Tony said, even if it wasn’t funny. She had a constant case of bedroom eyes and it was pissing Peter off.

“Hey, back off, Barbie,” Peter thought and caught himself. Whoa, where had that come from? He didn’t have time to question himself, for Tony looked over Blondie’s shoulder and smiled at him.

He knew Tony was only being polite. He never flirted back and it even seemed like he felt awkward, with the amount of times he coughed and cleared his throat, Peter was starting to think he had the flu.

Yet, that knowledge didn’t keep the green eyed monster at bay when her hands returned on his boyfriend, this time landing on his chest.

He narrowed his eyes into slits. Realizing he was holding his flute of champagne so tightly that it was in danger of shattering, he instead brought it to his lips and downed it all with one swallow before beckoning the waiter for another drink.

At her wandering hands, Tony’s usually fond expression completely disappeared into a much harder one. His brown eyes looking over Stacey with irritation. Yet, he still doesn’t say anything.

Peter - and perhaps the glasses of champagne had something to do with it - does though. “Okay enough is enough. The time for being polite is over cause clearly you don’t recognize a no when it’s waving in front of your face. He’s not interested in you. I know you miss him with the kind of sadness that sinks your bones into the earth, and I know you’d do anything to get him back, I get that. I would too if I lost a man like him. But, sweetheart, you were nothing but entertainment, something pretty on his arm, a little bit of eye candy maybe. If you really want to pleasure him, make him happy,” he stands up, getting in her face, “then leave.” Even Peter himself recoils a little from the venom in his voice. And clearly she does too because with a heated glare, she walks away, to the sound of Tony snickering.

“You do realize that I’ve already patented the right to be the emotionally unstable, immature and insecure one in this relationship, right? Do I need to call my lawyers and start a law suit? cause I won’t have you coming for my title.” He grinned, clearly seeing the amusement in this situation.

“Ha, very funny, Tony. You know, you could’ve said something right? Then maybe I wouldn’t have had to lose my cool and look like the crazy obsessed boyfriend.” He rolled his eyes at Tony.

“Let them think what they want,” he turns with that serious look that still has his trademark warm eyes. There was something in those brown eyes that was so beautiful, so safe and warm. In just one look he was home, “so long as you’re by my side, love, the rest of the world can go fuck themselves.” And that’s just what Peter needed to hear, that he’s Tony’s for now and into the future... that there will be a future. Cause all thoughts have the potential to grow toxic, but insecurities are born hungry.

“I’m sorry I really didn’t mean to get so intense.” Peter spoke softly. Tony shook his head. “Don't be, you're adorable when you're jealous," he teases, his voice drops to a huskier tone as he adds, "and I'll make it all up to you later tonight, baby."

Peter gulps loudly, pupils dilating already. “Promise?” He whispers. Tony wraps an arm around his shoulders and pulled him close, gently rubbing. Despite the heaviness in his stomach, Peter fluttered at the feeling of his body pressed against Tony’s. It almost felt like holding him wasn’t quite enough. Peter had to feel every once that he is press into every ounce that is Tony. “I promise.” He whispers back just as quietly, kissing the top of Peter’s head.

———————

You’re always welcome to send in more prompts!

[baijingshen]

Ship bias for lwj and lxc?

Send ‘Ship Bias’ and I will share up to 5 Ships I have a bias for for my muse! (+ specify a muse)

I JUST FIND IT HARD to imagine Wangji smiling like that for anyone who isn’t Wei Wuxian. So number 1-3 of this list belong to Wei Wuxian, sorry I don’t make the rules. However, I also have my guilty pleasures. 4. Jiang Cheng. When the universe created me it instilled me with a craving for angsty love stories, apparently, so of course I couldn’t help imagining feelings sprouting between Lan Wangji and Jiang Cheng during the time they search for Wei Wuxian together. Wouldn’t be the first time two people fall in love over their love for a third person. This is really just pain on a silver plate, though, but I do enjoy the thought of them together. They’d be an interesting couple!! They’re both stubborn in their own way and repressed in their own way and if left to their own devices they’d probably be in love for 84 years but only ever touch hands in chapter 173 maybe. 5. Nie Huaisang. Never thought I’d think about this ship, until I made this blog and @qinghebound mentioned it. It only works in a verse in which they meet before Wei Wuxian shows up in CR and generally in which Wangxian isn’t a thing, but it has potential. I think Wangji is someone who values strength, but not in the same way Nie Mingjue or Jiang Cheng do. He wouldn’t think less of Huaisang as a human being for not having strong cultivation or knowing how to wield a sword properly. If anything Wangji has proven that he’d support the one he loves in being who they are and want to be, and damned be anyone who disagrees.

1. Meng Yao. Their first scene together is absolutely ridiculous and I shipped them before I even remembered everybody’s name in CQL. Like, talk about shameless when Xichen opens that box Meng Yao is holding and just super casually touches hands as if they’ve been secret lovers for a decade. Ridiculous. Also the fact that no matter what JGY does, he just can’t hate him; he even admits that he knew about some of his shenanigans and still believed in the good in him, and for that I love them. The ending is a tragedy but I never blamed LXC for it and neither did JGY. The whole world is a better place because Xichen truly loved and appreciated Meng Yao and offered him the respect every person deserves regardless of where they come from, at any given moment. He really loved unconditionally, even if that doesn’t mean he agrees with everything JGY did, and that’s hard to top.

2. Nie Mingjue. I talked about this on my NMJ post, so maybe check that out as well if you’re interested :) I love to think about them as childhood/teenage friends and sweethearts to some degree. They lost a fraction of their heart to the other early on and never got it back (never asked for it back either). Even if they don’t see each other often and they’re kilometers apart, they know to trust each other and share a great fondness for each other. I think both sides know that they’d never have to fear the other to betray them, no matter what, and that’s something they both treasure a lot. Since I’m weak for the whole 3zun relationship mess (surprise), I also imagine that they both love each other enough they can handle it if the other is with someone else/with someone they love (Meng Yao), without feeling despair or jealousy others might feel in their situation. Xichen is Mingjue’s safe haven and he only ever wants his best. Losing him really makes him feel that part of his heart that he lost to Mingjue for the rest of his life, with every breath he takes. Some people are destined to meet in this life and be together, one way or another, and Xichen and Mingjue are just that. They give me that feeling of.. even if they had to say farewell to each other for 30 years (or forever), they’d feel better just knowing the other person exists somewhere on the other end of the world. You know?

3. Jiang Cheng. Jiang Cheng needs a lot of love and patience and Xichen has both in abundance. I also talked about this on my JC posts, here. I think Xichen could be really good for Jiang Cheng, as a friend and ally, and eventually a lover. Even if he’s subtle about it, Xichen has a way of making people feel seen and special without needing any grand gestures, and not being acknowledged or seen (or loved?) is one of Jiang Cheng’s big issues, imo. But not to be talking about JC’s side of it only, I also think Xichen deserves to be with someone who loves him with their whole heart and who appreciates his kindness and wisdom, and Jiang Cheng would. Once he loves someone he’s devoted and faithful; and after a considerable period of awkwardness about their changing relationship I think Jiang Cheng would consider himself incredibly lucky to have the trust and affection of the great Zewu Jun.

4. Nie Huaisang. This ship needs some kind of set up for me, because I don’t see it happening in canon without an incentive of some kind, but I like the idea of it. Lan Xichen is probably the only person in the cultivation world who genuinely isn’t annoyed with Huaisang’s “incompetence” even after years of watching him be a medium to grand scale disaster. Xichen is someone who loves people as they are and doesn’t try to change them, just understand them better. He can see that Huaisang isn’t interested in fighting and war, or even night hunts, and he doesn’t think everyone has to be. Huaisang has so many other beautiful talents and interests that make him a very special person and that side of him is something Xichen could appreciate, I think. Also, Huaisang would be a bit of a dash of color in Xichen’s life, and I think canon shows that Xichen generally enjoys a peaceful quiet life and doesn’t mind all those rules in CR, but he also likes the occasional mischief and he’s clearly amused by the shenanigans WWX & Co are up to during the lecture times.

[riseandshinelittleblossom]

Hoping For Home Ch 9- “Drive”

Summary: Sixteen years ago Libby Scott was supposed to become Queen of Cordonia, but Fate had other plans. Catch up here.

Special Thanks to @emichelle​for pre-reading and @ao719 for constantly being my sounding board for this piece. ily both As always please let me know if you wish to be added or removed from the tags!

Disclaimer: I don’t own the TRR characters, they own me.

Song Rec  for this Chapter:  “Drive” By Incubus

Tags:  @ao719​@ritachacha​ @leelee10898​ @fullbeaumonty​ @emichelle​ @lodberg​ @pedudley​ @blackcoffee85​ @drakesensworld​ @thequeenofcronuts​ @kingliam2019​ @dcbbw​ @allaboutchoices​ @desireepow-1986​ @princessleac1​ @dianalend​ @valtorian-duchess​

      Tessa had a fire burning in the master suite by the time the court arrived at Valtoria, and just like a moth Libby found herself drawn to it. 

      The manila folders felt heavy in her hands, as if lead weights lie within and she ran her fingers the length of them before turning them over in her hands.

       Lady Emma Louise Scott  in teletype across the front of one, Lord William James Scott on the other. After so many years of wondering the answer was finally in front of her. Instead of relief however, Libby felt a tight ball of panic in her chest.

      She watched the flames dancing up the wall within the hearth as it crackled and popped. Her mind wandered to the dream she'd had of the burning house. The way Liam tried desperately to calm her and the voices of her twins begging him to save them.  She shuddered at the thought.

     Libby had always been fond of fire, she'd always appreciated it's cleansing capabilities. It was the reason she'd chosen the Phoenix as her house sigil so many years ago.

   Perhaps these weighted envelopes could somehow find their way into the blaze before her. It would make her clean again. She could take her children far away from this place, shield them from the finality of the knowing. 

       "Spare a moment for a ghost of friendships past?" 

        Without even realizing, a smile formed on her lips that reached from ear to ear.

      "Always." She replied, sweeping her arm with a flourish towards the elegant chaise behind her.

     Maxwell jammed one hand in his pocket, the other running through his tousled locks as he crossed the floor to meet her. He perched precariously on the edge of the cushion and feigned a smile.

     "Watcha got there?" 

      "Bills. From the states." Libby lied, taking a seat next to him and tucking the envelopes behind her.

     He nodded staring into the flames, their warmth licking up his legs.

      "How are you, Maxwell?"

      "I'm fine. I'm good. I'm...uh….how are you?"

      Libby shook her head with a small snort.

     "I'm still here," She chortled.

     "For now,"

     Her eyes flicked to the man beside her to find he still stared straight ahead, his flippant comment clearly being swept away in his mind.

     He cleared his throat before he faced her, elbows resting on his knees and they brushed hers as they fell apart.

    "S-sorry." 

     Libby waved her hand dismissively, peering directly into his baby blues.

    "So I suppose we'll have our answers soon then, right?"  Maxwell asked, his fingers twisting together.

    "Any day now."

     "Well don't sound so excited, little blossom."

     A nervous giggle escaped her. 

    "I'm sorry I just….I do want to know. I've always wanted to know. Now that I'm standing on that precipice…" her words trailed off and Maxwell impulsively reached out, his long fingers engulfing her hand.

     For a brief second she stared down at them, heart racing, before returning her eyes to meet his.

   "I'm scared, Max. Petrified."

    His grip tightened and he nodded.

    "Whatever the answer I want you to know I'm still here for you."

     Libby tucked her lip between her teeth. 

    "As-as a friend, ya know? I'm your friend. Frrrriiieeennndd." 

     The ginger woman laughed, a hearty sound from the pit of her stomach. Leave it to Maxwell to try and lighten the mood.

    "What's so funny? I don't want you getting the wrong idea here. This bod may have some miles on it but it's still hard to resist." 

     He licked the ends of his middle fingers before touching them to his clothed nipples.

     "Oh yes, you're so enchanting, Lord Beaumont. However could I tell you no?"

     Maxwell flicked his wrists, wiping his hands smugly over his hair.

    "Many have tried, Your Grace, and many have failed."

    As if on cue he shot Libby with double finger guns just as she shot him with hers and they both erupted in a fit of giggles.

    "Serious faces okay? I support you and your decisions, no matter what they mean for me, Blossom. I want you to know that. Maybe if I had made that clearer to you years ago, you'd have stayed. I was angry and bitter, Libby. For a long, loooong time. You really did a number on me,"  he grasped her hand once more, sliding his opposing forefinger under her chin to tilt her face to his. "I'm not bitter anymore. I just want you to be deliriously happy, and I want what's best for your kids.

    I can see it on your face, Lib, you're ready to run. You're itchin to fly as far away from this situation as you can get. But I hope you stay. I hope you do the right thing and face this like the beautiful, smart, strong woman I know you are. I just...I hope you stay. Forever this time. You belong here, Blossom, and so do Emma and Will." 

     Without further ceremony Maxwell all but hopped off of the chaise, bouncing towards the doorway.

     "M-Maxwell…" 

      He cast his gaze over his shoulder to look at her, eyebrow raised.

    "Thank you. Somehow you always have a way of knowing exactly what to say and more importantly, when to say it."

      "Not always, but I try. That's my whole point, Blossom. I show up and I try. Sometimes I fuck up spectacularly, but the other times?" He touched his forefinger to the tip of his nose with a wink, and headed out the door.

************************

                Emma skipped down the corridor, gripping the door jamb as she spun inside Will's bedroom.

         "They're here," she grinned. A squeal escaped her and she stomped her feet, whirling in a circle. 

         "What are?" 

         Will held a small tablet and pen, brow furrowed as he scrawled across it, never looking up at his sister.

      "The results." 

      Will could barely hear what she was saying next. It was if he were in a tunnel, everything was muffled and echoed except the beating of his heart in his ears.

      All of his life Will had waited to find out who his father was and finally the results had arrived.

     Emma took hold of his shoulders shaking him gently from his astonishment.

     "Did you hear me, ya big doofus? Mom wants us all to meet in the parlor right now so we can open them."

********************

              Maxwell was the last to take a seat in the grand parlor at Valtoria estate. He glanced around at everyone, his eyes finally resting on Libby as she rose from her seat armed with the envelopes that were about to change everyone's lives forever.

      On the surface she looked calm, but Maxwell could feel her unsettled nerves even across the room.

      He watched as she handed each of her  children an envelope, and they exchanged glances with one another before Olivia piped up,

     "All at once, then. That's my vote."

     Emma nodded resolutely, locking eyes with her brother as she slid one finger under the opening tearing the glue with ease.

    Each twin read their paperwork and a thick silence filled the room. Maxwell held his breath.

      "Liam. Liam is my father." Emma finally announced, mystified by the words as she read them over and over again.

        A stillness filled the room. Maxwell stood taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly. With every ounce of decorum he could muster, he swept into a deep bow.

      "Your Royal Highnesses. It had been a pleasure. Now if I may be excused….Long live Princess Emma and Prince William of Cordonia."   

     He turned abruptly, making it to the doorway in just a few strides; but before he could make his exit Will's words rang out,

       "Are you sure you read that right, Em?"

     He plucked the paper from his sister's hand as she shrieked in opposition. Maxwell paused, eyes cast over his shoulder at the scene behind him.

     Will's eyes darted back and forth rapidly as he studied both sets of results before finally he looked at his mother in disbelief.

     "Mom, how is this possible?"

      He handed the papers to his mother and she read them over carefully, one hand coming up to cover her mouth when she had processed them both.

      "What is it, Libby?" Liam questioned.

      "Emma is your daughter, sir," Will began, "I am Maxwell's son."

[queenjanai]

Flowers

so a while back this lovely anon saw how much i was thirsty for new janaya fics, and so kindly started to write one for me, and this is their wonderful fic! i’m putting it under a read more, and it’s definitely worth reading, so give it a moment of your time. i really like how the environment feels so warm, and how amaya and janai interact, and just - the whole thing. also, if you want, like, reblog, or leave a reply to let this writer know how great their work is. thanks again, anon!

The summer solstice was an important day in Lux Aurea. There was a ball, which was held in the royal palace, and was open to all Sunfire elves- and, for this year, one human. Offically, it started at the first light of dawn and ended when the stars became visible in the night sky; however, many elves could be found starting early or continuing late. Or both. Amaya had woken up before dawn to stand by Janai’s side to begin the celebration, as the Sunfire Queen was responsible for announcing the official start and end of the solstice. But, while the Sunfire elves could replenish some energy through the power of the sun due to it being the sun’s peak of power, humans had no such ability. By the time evening broke, Amaya was exhausted. Stealing dances with Janai and having friendly sparring matches with Sunfire soldiers was fun and all, but she needed to sit down for a bit. The only seats she could find currently unoccupied were the benches in the garden, which were largely empty due to the fact that no one wanted to risk accidentally damaging some of the flowers and gain the Queen’s ire. Queen Khessa had, apparently, been quite fond of the delicate and beautiful plants she ordered to be grown there, and Queen Janai couldn’t bear to see something her sister had enjoyed so much be harmed in any way. So, most of the partygoers had very deliberately avoided the garden, and as a result, it became a calm area for people who wanted to take a break from the celebrations. People like Amaya.

While any bench would have worked, she didn’t want to be bothered by anyone, so she wandered deeper into the garden, to where Janai had shown her the… Sun Blossoms? No, those were the bright yellow flower bushes at the front of the garden. Dawn Delights? No, the Dawn Delights were wall-clinging vine flowers, and they were found climbing the tall fences that surrounded the garden. Whatever these flowers were called, they stored sunlight during the day, and released it as a glow during the night. Today had been a wonderfully sunny day, so the flowers gave off enough light that Amaya could see clearly nearly ten feet away. The bench was right in front of the patch of glowing flowers, close enough that someone sitting on it could reach out and touch the petals of the nearest flowers. But then the glowing pollen would stick to her gloves, and since Amaya had actually borrowed them from Janai, she decided not to try touching any of them. Taking a seat after so long felt wonderful. Taking her sandles off- also borrowed- felt even better, even though her feet stung where some of the straps had been digging into her skin slightly. The dress she was wearing was the only thing she wore that was hers, having been specially made for the party; it was made entirely of a strange elven fabric that was silky but warm, the most draping pieces of her dress flowing from her body like finely woven water but catching and drifting through the air like wisps of flame as she moved. Such as she did now- she let herself fall backward onto the cool, smooth stone of the bench, watching dispassionately as her stole and the looser parts of her dress floated down after her. Who thought sleeves should be ‘nearly floor-length?’ Once they were out of her range of sight, her gaze turned up towards the slowly darkening sky, until the constant glow of the flowers began to annoy her, and she closed her eyes. - Janai had been running around all day. Getting ready for the celebrations, announcing the start, keeping an eye on all the partygoers, and other responsibilities of the queen. It had left her hardly any time to spend with Amaya, despite having asked her to come from Katolis, all the way to Lux Aurea. Not exactly a short journey. But now, with the evening taking over the sky more and more, she was finally able to relax. Now she could properly enjoy some time with Amaya, like she’d been wanting to do since she’d kissed Amaya awake that morning- the way those dark, human eyes looked around and focused on her, freshly-woken bleariness turning into warm and soft awareness as she smiled at Janai, was the greatest temptation Janai had ever felt to simply go back to bed. But now Janai’s duties were finished, and Amaya was missing. She knew her love had mentioned needing a break, but that was nearly fifteen minutes ago. Surely Amaya would have noticed the sky getting darker, the crowds thinning out slowly but getting more excited? Where could her heart be? She asked one of the guards stationed at the door outside the garden, who was clearly quite eager to be finished with the day’s duties, just like Janai. They informed her that they had, indeed, seen Amaya exiting through the door to enter the gardens, but had yet to see her return. Had she lost track of the time, or gotten held up in conversation? Entering the garden herself, Janai assessed the crowd gathered there; unfortunately, it was all elves. Perhaps, since Janai had given her a tour of it earlier, Amaya had felt bold enough to enter it alone. Did she want to be alone so deeply? Or perhaps… She was waiting for Janai to come find her? It wasn’t a possibility she could (or wanted to) rule out. Sneaking into Khessa’s gardens had been a favorite pasttime of Janai’s, up until a few years ago. Looking at all the flowers blooming, seeing the latest attempts of the ever-ongoing efforts to breed yet more beautiful flowers, investigating if Khessa had decided to rip out a patch of flowers to replace them with flowers she liked better- it had all been so relaxing, a simple and delightful break from the rest of the world. Now, Janai cannot bring herself to journey into the garden too often- it was too rich in memories of her sister. But today, she could not stop herself from entering it if she wanted to- her feet seemed to long for the paths they had wandered down so often, her body ached for the familiar petals and leaves surrounding her. It was no surprise to her when she found Amaya laying near the Evening Brights- she’d seemed fascinated by how brightly they glowed when Janai showed her them the first time. “My light, there you are.” Of course, Amaya didn’t stir from where she… laid. Why was she laying across the bench, actually? Had she been staring at the sky? As Janai approached, the answer became clear- Amaya was asleep. She looked like a painting, one hand half-curled by her head, while another laid across her stomach, with her deep red dress splayed out around her. With the glowing flowers behind her, it was quite a sight to behold. A sight Janai wished she could hold onto forever. A queen though she may now be, and the Golden Knight before that, she found she was entirely powerless against such a peaceful, picturesque scene, against the throb of her heart within her chest as she saw her love so relaxed and so calm. She was similarly powerless against the desire to bend down and kiss her cheek, much as she had that morning. As she pulled away, Amaya’s hand grabbed her cheek to pull her back in for a deeper kiss. 'Sleep well?’ Janai signed, her eyes shining with amusement. 'You didn’t come back, so I came to find you.’ 'Yes, until someone woke me up.’ Amaya answered, looking just as playful. 'Is the party over?’ 'Waking the Queen’s wife? A crime. What is their punishment?’ Janai shot back, fighting to keep the grin off her face. Amaya pretended to think carefully for a second. 'A kiss.’ And then she leaned up to give her lover the 'punishment.’ 'Did you wake me up so we could go back to your room?’ Janai’s cheeks flushed slightly at the question. 'Not yet. I didn’t want you to be surprised by the fireworks.’ 'Surprised by what?’ Amaya copied the sign Janai had made; putting her closed hands together in front of her, then pulling them apart while spreading her fingers, and repeating slightly to the side. But before she could get an answer, the sky lit up- red light filled the air, the aftermath of an explosion. Three streaks of smoke shot into the sky immediately afterward, which also exploded- blue, yellow, and green. They had to be loud- even though they exploded so high in the sky, Amaya could feel them rattle her chest. How could Lux Aurea be under attack now? Now that so many of the elves were defenseless, now that she had no armor or weapon? But Janai showed no signs of worry; she slid her legs under Amaya’s raised head, so she could sit with her head in her lap. 'Fireworks.’ She signed again, then fingerspelled it out as more of them shattered the heavens. 'They’re for special occasions. They honor the Sun. And they’re beautiful.’ She turned her eyes up to the sky, enjoying the display. The pyrotechnicians had worked hard this year, and the results were wonderful; purple filled the sky in a huge burst, no doubt drawing gasps from the crowds gathered in the front of the garden, outside the castle, and in the streets. One of Janai’s hands stroked Amaya’s hair, while the other held her hand. Here in the garden, with the love of her life, watching the fireworks fill the sky… Janai knew there was nowhere else she would ever want to be. But she took a moment to look down at Amaya’s face, seeing the wonder and the amazement in there, and she realized she was looking at the most beautiful thing in the world.

[kryptsune]

I have a Confession... {Red X Frisk Drabble}

FRANS WEEK 2020 // Day 1: Confession

>>Day 2

@fransweek

🌼So a little bit about this. I am planning on doing Frans week this year that said I also don’t want to stress myself out. I have a sketch that I am working on that combines a few of the prompts but I still wanted to do something for day one so here is Underworld Red and Frisk after her run. Frans is so important to me so it is nice to post this kind of content again. 

If you are currently reading Underworld there are a couple of spoilers within this that have yet to show up in the fic. I actually have decided to write this out instead because I am currently editing and getting feedback on the latest chapter which I plan to get up today at some point. If not it is going to be tomorrow. This scene is not canon to Underworld btw angst ahead.

===========================

She had yanked her hand away yelling only for him to become a little overly aggressive. It had slipped her mind as she shook from his actions. His boney almost claw-like fingers dug into her skin causing a blossom of blood to form and trickle down her arm. He had released her when he didn’t realize his own strength but it was too late.

 Her ears rang with his shouts as she ran clutching her arm. Her legs brought her to the only place she found solace. A small little place in Waterfall. She collapsed next to the glowing blue stream shivering as if the very ground she now rested was but ice. When she looked down at her arm, the wound was nowhere to be seen. 

That only meant that her mind had started to decay and old horrors were spilling out. Did he even grab her? Her eyes filled with tears as she placed her shaking hand against her lips. What was real? What was fake? She knew that he loved her but this. She was sure she looked at him with horror swimming in those cobalt depths. The fear was undeniable and he had done nothing to deserve it. How could you ever love someone that saw the shadow of your former self-overlaid over the present? Was she a hypocrite? She told him that she forgave him and yet her mind was wrought with rot. It’s decay slowly creeping deeper and deeper into her mind. The ghosts of the past haunted her even to the extreme of physical sensation. What were you supposed to trust? 

She closed her eyes leaning forward in defeat. Her age was in its prime. A young woman with so much life to live and yet this disease had slowly consumed her sanity and with age, it would only devour what was left of the present. She couldn’t put him through that. It would break her heart. She didn’t deserve him not after that. At that moment her heart began to break. She loved him so much that his happiness went beyond her selfishness. He was better off finding a monster to be with than her. She would get old, her condition would become worse, and he would be tied to a human with such a short life in comparison to his own. It was the way it truly had to be. No amount of apology could ever fix what she had just done even if it was not in her proper state of mind.

She just sat there staring blankly into the water only to hear a small noise off to the side. It was him. It was near impossible for her to truly be alone when he was able to track her down so easily. Even when he approached she refused to raise her head to look at him, “I’m sorry…” She nearly choked on her next set of words as they passed her wavering lips, “We can’t be together. I…. I can barely control myself any longer. All I see is the worst part of you when…” 

The tears began to form as she tried to stop herself, “I know there is so much I love. I…I don’t even deserve you. I want to love you and keep you close to me but I fear I am losing my mind. I see things past and.“ She was cut off as she screwed her eyes shut only whimpering a few chosen words, "I’m so sorry I yelled…. That I ran… I don’t know what is wrong with me anymore.”

Physical ailments could be treated with simple medication or rest but the mind is a complex beast. Just as it’s physical appearance depicts it is a maze that one could be trapped in for all eternity with no hope of escape. She was shaking and nearly on the cliff of a panic attack. What would he say? 

 All she felt was gentle arms wrapping around her from behind cradling her in that warm embrace. How could he even look at her let alone touch her? All she could hear was that soft twinkle of chimes that made Waterfall so unique. He loved her, cared for her, and comforted her. He was her best friend and now someone she couldn’t imagine being without. His silence only led to soft gestures like the wiping of tears, a soft squeeze, and a small smile. He didn’t need words to tell her how he felt. When the silence finally broke she was staring up into those red eyes. One that used to frighten her but now drew her in with that brilliant ruby hue.

He knew what it was like to lose your mind as his father had made sure of it. The monster he once was and the one she had met were like doppelgangers and though those traits from his past had returned he still struggled with the one thing that stained his very being. The very thing that had nearly torn half the Underworld apart with its aggression and madness. To see her go through the same pains hurt his soul. 

He had learned to control his and yet hers only seemed to become worse. He feared one day she would harm herself due to some demon that crept into her mind. Take that pain away... that was all that he wanted for her. Even her outbursts could never change how much he loved her. Even if she tried to pull away he would always pull her back. He had done this to her and so he deserved what he was getting.

 He only threaded his fingers through her hair gently combing through the auburn strands, “Why would ya ever think I’d be mad at ya?” He had been working tirelessly for weeks trying to improve her mental condition and yet no amount of magic could fix her wounds, “Ya don’t deserve me? Sweetheart, ya got it backward. I did this ta ya and I’m sorry. I wish I could take it all back er’… erase all tha bad but I can’t. You could yell at me fer tha rest of yer life… I will never leave ya.”

 He just held her praying to someone, anyone that one day those demons would be purged from her mind even if that meant he had to be out of the equation. She deserved better and though he loved her with his every breath he could not deny that he was only causing her more pain. He could feel her small frame shuddering as she sobbed, “Shhhh I gotcha.”

It was ironic considering the place she had chosen to escape to. It was a special place for both of them. It did not look like much but this was the place where his once cold and ruthless soul had been soothed. No amount of words or magic could do what her warm smile had or just that sparkle of hope and love in her eyes. It was the moment he realized he had been horribly wrong about the seemingly fragile human girl sitting beside him and how much of the term monster he had become.

 A truly awful horrible demon of a skeleton that didn’t deserve her angelic mercy. He had a difficult time living with his past actions drowning in a regret that not even time could cure. He remembered finding her trying to hold back tears as she wrapped her pale arms around herself. Seeing his handiwork in full display only for her to panic at his snooping. She explained that though time appeared broken for her that did not mean there were no consequences to such a thing. She called it a curse and rightfully so. Even as they sat in silence he could feel his thoughts shifting.

 That was the moment that changed everything. That was truly the moment that he realized just how special she was and how important she was to him specifically. He nearly cursed himself for not seeing it sooner. It was the same exact spot. The only difference was that he had no hesitation in his comforting of her. He wanted her to know that no matter what he would always be there no matter what she did because deep down a little of her hope had made its way into him. He would save her just like she had saved him all those years ago. She deserved happiness and he knew that for her that included him just as much. She had said so herself.

He closed his sockets just resting his mouth on the crown of her head before slowly raising it to speak clearly, “Ya saved everyone Sweetheart… now let me save you, alright?”

 He continued to hold her like the little fragile thing she was letting her feel that warmth and comfort. That loving embrace that would never leave her. She looked up at him now calmed by the soft words and warm cradle of his arms. It was a simple word one that might make another laugh at its absurdity, “Red…” 

Ah yes, the nickname. The very one that had been a joke in the past. A failed attempt at a kind of quip for his use of so many pet names for her. There was one that stood out among the rest, sweetheart. There was nothing as fitting as that one simple word for her. She had made a point about mocking his fashion sense and his unfortunate eye color saying that he should be nicknamed after the color he seemed to be drowned in but it was his.

 A name that proved that though he had become something he hardly recognized that was the person she had grown fond of and could call a friend. It was special even if to the untrained eye it would appear rather bland or foolish. When that word slipped past her lips his soul would thump in his chest skipping the nonexistent beat that filled what a heart would do.

 He stared into those blue eyes that were filled with so much love for him something he never thought he would ever deserve. No, no one could say that name like she could. She didn’t need to speak anymore he just swept her off her feet so they could once again return home. He would keep hope for a brighter future and one day all those grey clouds would give way to the most beautiful blue sky.

 She had already cleared away the storm for him now it was his turn to show her the true beauty of a night sky unhindered by a single cloud. A peace, love, and happiness unmatched and unequal to anything on this planet or under it.

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[selfless1978]

I once, in private, RPed with my Leo with a very special person. They knew how much I loved my version of him, and he had expressed it like this when she asked if it would upset me. 

Basically, there is one base Leo that was originally created. No matter how much we change him and shape him, every single one leads back to that first version. If it hadn’t been for that gritty comic, he never would have been available in so many forms to love. So, in a sense, there is only one Leo and all his different shapes and forms are just a matter of perspective on those who want to bring him to life. Therefore, no one really owns him. Everyone has had a hand to making him what he is. To some a BDSM master, to others a soft, caring lover. To many he is a stick in the mud, to few he is a clown in disguise. He is a character made for the masses that takes different shapes depending on the need. Therefore, he is to be shared by all. 

Now, I’m going to do this same thing with Vicky. I’ve played her in many forms, but her base personality is the same. What makes her, her is always going to be at her core, good or bad. In my mind, Vicky has grown far from her original intention to be a self insert. She has grown into her own enigma. Now, with a few years of playing her in many situations behind me, she has that same kind of depth. I’m going to do something that I haven’t seen done yet. One version of her new to this, the other having already taken the plunge. Both together in one story. And both having fallen for him. For Leo.

I hope you enjoy.

@fearlessheartofasamurai and @bushido-in-blue

This one is for you. One having seen me through some very hard times, and is dearly missed. The other helping me to overcome a deep scar of hurt to bring Vicky back out. To let her once more flourish in my writings.

To the both of you, I thank you deeply.

-Vicky Mun

TELL HIM

She sat across from him. Her deep brown eyes watching him as he tended to his weapons. Being very meticulous to sharpen every burr. His attention to the slightest detail amazing this often impatient and flighty woman. To her, it wasn’t the only amazing thing about him. She still couldn’t believe that such a marvelous creature gave her the time of day. 

This left her with the feeling of girly giddiness and, fear. She showed him neither as she started to form a connection. She was growing very fond of him. Even now she smiled as he engaged with a quick banter session with Mikey. Raph and Donnie chiming in and soon the lair was filled with their light hearted laughter. It was over in a short time, and soon she found herself alone with him as he returned his attention back to his weapons. Still, she said nothing. She didn’t want to interrupt his maintenance of his weapons, knowing full well that his life depended on them. And, what she really wanted to say was hidden behind a wall of uncertainty. 

I'm scared. So afraid to show I care

These feelings she was dealing with were very hard for her to voice. Her own past of hurt not wanting to let go and to allow her to reach out to him. To allow her even the slightest hope that he could be something more than a friend.

Will he think me weak. If I tremble when I speak

She bit her lip as she sat silently on the couch. Here was her chance. She could tell him about these thoughts and feelings. But the mere thought of that made her clam up. She knew very well that she wasn’t very good at talking about things this deep and personal. She would end up a stuttering mess and make a fool out of herself.

Oooh, what if there's another one he's thinking of

What if he had his interest in someone else? A man like him could have any woman he wanted, why would he want to spend time with her? A nobody with a damaged past and so many issues she had to face and learn to overcome.

Maybe he's in love, I'd feel like a fool

But if she never said anything, how would she know? If she didn’t reach out to him, this torment she was facing now would never be resolved. She would forever lament the opportunity passed because she was to afraid to speak up.

Life can be so cruel, I don't know what to do

Suddenly, she felt a warmth. It, was an odd feeling. Comforting, calming. A feeling full of hope. She closed her eyes to it and found a mental image of, herself? It seemed now as if two of her were sitting on the couch. one next to the other. Her current, torn self and another that watched with gentle compassion. Her loving expression watching him fondly as he obliviously worked. 

Then, this strange vision turned to look at her directly.

I've been there. With my heart out in my hand

Images began to fade in. Curious ones. They could be memories if she had done these things herself, but she hadn’t. There were things that were noticeably different. The lair setup, the furniture, even the turtles themselves were different to her in these pictures. She was in awe as she sat there, her eyes still closed. Trapped in this strange trance. But this, she wasn’t scared of. This shade was projecting nothing that even remotely alarmed her. If anything, it seemed understanding.

One image in particular held her. An image of this other her standing in front of this Leo. Just as terrified as she told him what was in her heart. 

But what you must understand, you can't let the chance to love him pass you by

She felt her heart melt as these two came together in their first kiss.  Tell him. Tell him that the sun and moon rise in his eyes. Reach out to him

She could feel the elation coming from this woman. Felt all of the fear drain out of her. She watched as they held each other close. Her head now tucked under his chin while his large arms wrapped around her.

And whisper, tender words so soft and sweet

They exchanged soft, loving words as he wiped her tears. Tears of relief. This shade had faced this same fear and the relief trickled down her cheeks. Her head eating against his chest.

She wanted that, she wanted that so much.

I'll hold him close to feel his heart beat

Now the scene changed. But it was her doing this time. Turning it into an image of herself and this turtle infant of them that mirrored the happiness she was feeling from her visitor. Showing this unique vision that this was also what she wanted, more than anything else.

Love will be the gift you give yourself

The shade smiled and nodded encouragingly, showing her support. She could clearly see the happiness in these strange eyes like hers. Touch him, with the gentleness you feel inside

More images came. Scenes of soft touches and caresses. Morning after bliss as they lay wrapped in each other’s arms. Casual hand holding, giggling pillow fights. The feeling of warmth at just being near him

 (I feel it)

A warmth she could feel for herself. This shade shared her own memories so openly and complete that she had no choice. She even felt how much this image loved him, and the feeling tore at her heart. Happy that this shade could find such love, and lamenting that it wasn’t actually her feeling it.

Your love can't be denied. The truth will set you free

She was compelled to open her eyes, and so she did. Leo had now moved on to his other blade. He felt her watching and looked up, giving her a smile before he began his minute inspection.

You'll have what's mean to be. All in time you'll see

She still felt this strange presence even with her eyes now open. As she watched him, an image over lapped her view of him. An image of the shade sitting sideways in her Leo’s lap, sharing more tender kisses before it gently faded away. Ooh, I love him

Her heart ached. There was no denying how she felt. 

(Then show him)

What she wanted. She swallowed hard as she fought with herself still. The warmth this shade brought with her flared again, soothing her while still sending her support.

Of that much I can be sure 

No, there was no denying what was growing in her. The flame, which had been so uncertainly flickering began to steady and burned brighter.

(Hold him close to you)

Reassurance filled her as another image was flashed before her. Both of them wrapped in a tight hug. But this was an image of her and what could be.

I don't think I could endure if I let him walk away, when I have so much to say She would gain nothing if she remained silent. She would suffer this painful uncertainty if she didn’t speak. She would be heartbroken if she didn’t at least try.

She struggled with it for a long moment, biting her lip in indecision.

Tell him. Tell him that the sun and moon rise in his eyes

The playful image of her shade laughing as she dabbed soap suds on her Leo’s nose as they bathed flashed before her eyes.

Reach out to him and whisper, tender words so soft and sweet

Followed by soft whispers of sweet nothings before they shared a kiss. Him pulling her close against him.

I'll hold him close to feel his heart beat

And yet another of her shade smiling up at him while he carried her, then grinned before he playfully dumped her into a large beanbag chair and followed her down. Laughter now giving way to passion.

Love will be the gift you give yourself She took a deep, shaking, breath and pushed herself off of the couch. She could have this. This experience was crazy, but she was grateful for it. It was giving her something to bury her fears. It was giving her hope.

Love is light that surely glows In the hearts of those who know. It's a steady flame that grows

She began to walk slowly towards him. Fighting her fear and uncertainty with every step. When he noticed her approaching, he looked up. His eyes full of curiosity and her resolve almost faltered.

Feed the fire with all the passion you can show

That now very welcome warmth flared inside of her again, washing away her doubts. The shade was still with her, and was clearly telling her she wasn’t alone. She smiled a shy smile at Leo and stepped closer.

Tonight love will assume its place. This memory time cannot erase

She stopped in font of him and he looked up at her expectantly.

Your faith will lead love where it has to go

She fidgeted a moment, unsure how to even begin. Tell him

Let it come from the heart

Tell him that the sun and moon rise in his eyes

Be honest, sincere.

Reach out to him and whisper, whisper words so soft and sweet

Vicky shook a little as she heard the words only she could hear, then reached for his hand and gently took it in hers. Was she crazy? Or was there really something helping her? She did know that if this hadn’t happened, she may have never found the courage to even think of trying to do this much less be standing in front of him now. 

Hold him close to feel his heart beat

His hand in hers. 

Love will be the gift you give yourself

She could do this. If she had any chance with him at all, she had to do this. There was one last image. The shade was now standing behind Leo. Smiling that same smile full of compassion and gentleness. The warmth she had been feeling moved from her body towards it, and she understood that this image of her had indeed come to her aid. She didn’t know how it was even possible, but she would be forever grateful to it. “Never let him go”

“I won’t...”

“Leo, um, can, can we talk?”

Damn. I made myself cry with this one....

[jaehyun-eclipsed]

Before I Met You | Ten

Updates: Sundays, ~8 PM EST

Pairing: NCT (Jaehyun, Lucas, Mark, Jaemin, Johnny) X Reader/OC

Genre: Romance, Angst, Coming of Age

Summary: Four. There were four people before I fell in love with you… Here are their stories.

Before I Met You Masterlist

Prev | Next

“What are you doing?” Jaehyun asks.

He looks down at me as I sit on the floor, boxes and papers scattered around me. A smirk slowly forms on his face, the scene in front of him clearly amusing.

“I’m just going through some of the old papers I’ve saved.” I chuck a stack of papers into a cardboard box. “There’s a lot of stuff from my college days that I haven’t touched in years so I figure I can throw it out.”

Jaehyun’s eyebrows raise in curiosity. He bends down to pick up something that catches his eye. “What are these?”

“Oh! Those are a bunch of polaroids we’ve taken together. I put them in a box each time we took them and since I’m cleaning up and redecorating, I thought I’d make a photo garland with them above my desk.”

“That would be nice – oh! This is from our first date!”  He flips to the next photo. “Oh and this was the first night you came over and we watched Before Sunrise together!”

I stand up and lightly grip onto his forearm, leaning my head against him as he continues looking through the photos. “You know, I was quite surprised you suggested we watch that movie.”

“Oh really? Why?”

“It’s an unusual style for a movie; it’s not something everyone would necessarily appreciate,” I say. “I was pretty excited you wanted to watch it though!” I grin up at him. “It’s one of my favorite movies. I watched it for the first time when I was a sophomore in college.”

“I really liked it. It was really interesting and I was impressed at how it kept you focused the entire time even though it was so simple.”  

I let go of his arm as he hands me back all the photos. 

“I have a couple emails I need to send, but for dinner I was thinking we could make some pizza? I bought sourdough,” he says. 

“Yeah, that sounds great! Let me know when you’re ready!”

He smiles and gives me a light peck on the lips. “I love you.”

I lift my hand to gently caress his cheek before bringing it to the back of his neck to pull him down for another kiss. “I love you, too.”

As Jaehyun leaves the room, I look down at the floor again, spotting my chemistry lab notebook from freshman year. I pick it up and flip through it, seeing that there are still a significant number of blank pages that can still be used. Perhaps I’ll keep it. When I reach the back cover, a sense of nostalgia overcomes me as I scan the many sticky notes containing various equations and important points I needed to memorize for the final. I briefly quirk an eyebrow before breaking out into a smile when I see the light green sticky note at the bottom with a doodle of a smiling watermelon with arms and legs. Mark had drawn it for me when we were studying and hid it in my notebook when I left to use the restroom.  

I actually haven’t spoken to Mark in a while. He’s difficult to get a hold of. Last I had heard was that he was doing some service work and traveling. Occasionally, he’d post a picture of himself playing the guitar wherever he was – usually on a beach or for an audience of small children.  

Mark will always hold a special place in my heart. My time with him was very limited, but he’s a fond memory I’ll always hold dear. He was the first real friend I had in college – the first person away from home I ever felt comfortable speaking to. For me, he was the sign that things were going to be okay.  

He was right though. Things did get better as I progressed through college. I moved out of the dorms and found a better roommate. I made some new friends that I could call up and hang out with. Studying was still difficult, but I did figure out what worked in order for me to be successful. It’s still not a place I miss, but I do appreciate all of the opportunities I had. And on the rare occasion I had the chance to talk to Mark, he was always so excited to hear that things were going relatively well. He ended up being someone I told a lot of my boy problems to, and though he didn’t have a ton of advice every time, he was always amused by my stories.

However, there was one time – the summer before I graduated college – where he did have some advice that really helped me. That was the last time I saw him in person.

I do miss him.

Sadly, we didn’t contact each other that much after he went to London. The time difference made it a challenge and whenever one of us was available, the other wasn’t. I felt like the universe was trying to tell me something.

I do remember one phone call we had though. That call broke my heart.

Is it even possible to have your heart broken by someone who was just a friend?

Because Mark was the first person to ever break my heart… and break it twice.

“Hey! I went to Derbyshire the other day. You’d love it! It’s so beautiful!” he said. “And Chatsworth House is gorgeous. No wonder you like that movie so much. They chose some good filming sites.”

“It’s a very aesthetically pleasing movie!” I remarked. “I’m so jealous though. You got to live my Elizabeth Bennet dreams.”

“Yeah! You should come visit considering I’m going to be staying here for two more years.”

“Wh – what?”

“Yeah! Shortly after I got here, I was looking into transferring and college here is usually three years so the timing kinda works out. The UK normally doesn’t like transfers, but since I’m here, I figured some stuff out with their counselors.”

I was happy for him, truly. But that didn’t mean I didn’t want him to come back considering our time together was so short. There was so much more I wanted to talk to him about. He was different and he embraced being different. He was always so comfortable in his own skin and had a carefree spirit that was easy to be around. Mark truly enjoyed life – with all of its complexities and particularly its simple pleasures.

Honestly, I didn’t think Mark could say anything else that would have been as devastating as when he told first told me he was leaving.

But I was wrong. Hearing him decide to stay there for longer than he had originally planned was equally heartbreaking. It’s hard when you’re waiting for someone to come back and they don’t when you expect them to. I even get a little disappointed when Jaehyun says a business trip has to be extended for a couple days. But that’s nothing compared to two years. 

Timing.

The timing was never right for us.

But one thing’s for sure: Mark kept his original promise.

Dear Y/N,

Hello! I’m so sorry it has taken me so long to write to you! Life just gets so busy sometimes! I wanted to thank you again for the journal you gave me. Your note was so sweet! I don’t know if you noticed, but I was trying not to cry when you gave it to me haha. I also added the pictures we took together. You know, we look pretty cute in them haha!

I hope you know that I live vicariously through you. London is great, but I do miss California! I like hearing about all of the different aspects of your life, especially your boy drama (because who doesn’t like a little gossip) so keep it up! I just wanna let you know that even though I’m 5,000 miles away, I’m always a call/email/letter away! If you need me, I’m here!

I’m really grateful I got to know you, even if it was only for a little bit. I do wish we had met earlier, but I’m pretty sure we’re going to remain friends even after I return! Once you become friends with me, you’re stuck with me forever haha :) But please stay in contact with me! Sincerely, I think you’re incredible.

I hope everything this semester is going swell for you! Sounds like you’re taking on a lot, but I know you can do it! As you know, I’m not the most gifted in chemistry, but if you need anything else, just let me know!

One last thing: Keep up being amazing! Good luck trying to keep all these boys off you, but I’m sure they know when they’ve met an incredible find. It’s not often you meet a girl who is kind, pretty, smart, and funny; so I doubt you’ll be able to keep them away for too long!

Anyway, I hope you continue to write me letters sometimes! Isn’t it fun to have a pen pal?! I love hearing about what you’re up to! So keep me posted!

Love, Mark

Prev | Next

Before I Met You Masterlist Masterlist

[hyungwonmyheart]

Of the Sun - Two

Group: ATEEZ Pairing: Seonghwa / Female Reader Genre: Fantasy!AU (D&D inspired) Words: 2,169 Tags: dungeons & dragons, fantasy!au, high-elf!Seonghwa, human!reader, rescue story, eventual smut, half-elf!San, alcohol use, troubled past, death mention Summary: After arriving to town, Seonghwa parts ways with you, leaving you alone in a tavern where you are approached by a stranger. An uncomfortable exchange leads Seonghwa back to you, and you’re grateful that he saved you yet again.

As dusk drew near, you came upon the outskirts of a bustling town, Idylwood. It was brimming with life of all sorts, and you became intrigued by the sights the further you ventured within. There were many shops and food establishments. Seonghwa hadn’t spoken to you for an hour, ever since he stopped you from touching what seemed to be a lovely plant, but turned out to be a ravenous creature, ready to bite your hand off. You had apologized immensely, but he only continued walking after ordering you to keep your hands to yourself.

So, here you were, trudging along through this new community in silence with your companion. Seonghwa towered over most people, drawing their attention as he walked by. You kept your head high, an attempt to seem as confident as he did, though that only warranted whispers of what a human like you was doing with such a regal being like him. It may have dampened your spirit, yet you didn’t let it show.

You came upon a large building towards the center of the town. The hanging wooden sign read: The Braided Thicket Inn. Seonghwa stopped in front of the inn. “I believe this is where we shall part,” Seonghwa turned to tell you. The look of disappointment that muddled your usually bubbly disposition took him aback. He reminded himself that you were merely a thorn in his side.

This meant you were going to be alone again, and for some reason, that made you panic. Seonghwa may have been grumpy, but you knew he was smart and kinder than he let on. You didn’t want to part from him yet. “At least let me repay you for saving me, twice,” you offered brightly, despite the dread in your heart if he were to refuse. “Are you hungry?”

“Not particularly,” he answered, immediately picking up on what you were getting at. He wasn’t fond of company, that was blatantly obvious. “I have business to discuss with the owner of this fine inn. I suggest you book a room for the night and rest. We walked most of the day, I’m sure you’re exhausted.”

Your heart sank after all. “More famished than anything,” you murmured, peeking into a window to see a tavern on the lower level of the inn. “I’ll be getting a hearty meal before worrying for a room.”

Seonghwa gave a nod before entering. You were close in tow, but separated from the elf to take a seat at an empty table in the center of the tavern. You set your bag on the ground beside your feet and sighed at the relief of resting for the time being.

A young barmaid came over to you and asked how she could be of service.

Your eyes lingered on Seonghwa as he stood at the bar, waiting to speak with who he needed. Snapping out of your daze, you smiled at the woman. “Ale and whatever your special is. I’m very hungry,” you told her with a light laugh.

“Coming right up,” she kindly replied.

Once she had gone into the kitchen, you leaned forward on the table with your elbows and rested your face in your palms. You were starting to feel wearier than you thought.

“Good evening, miss,” a voice said from nearby. It was too close.

You abruptly looked up, clearly surprised to see a man with a beer mug sitting adjacent from you at the table.

He greeted you with a charming smile, his dark eyes crinkling at the sides. His brown hair was parted in the front, showing off his good looks. You noted his ears were pointed and adorned with piercings.

You were so taken off guard that it took a long moment for you to realize he was waiting for your response. “Good evening,” you replied meekly. What did this elf want from you? Why were elves suddenly flocking to you? The thought was half-hearted before he continued to speak.

“I see you’re dining alone. I am also here alone. Would you like some company?”

This was so strange. This elf was far different from the one you spent the day with. You hadn’t interacted much with elves in the past, though it was well known that they could be partial to their kind, rather than others. So, was this kind stranger a fluke?

You actually felt starved for conversation, though the one you wished to know more about had left the room, which you assumed was to a private chamber. You nodded politely to the elf. “That would be nice,” you said.

His grin grew. “My name is San,” he declared, extending his hand to yours.

You told him your name as you went to shake his hand, trying to hide the rough skin on your palms.

Instead, San brought yours to his lips to place a gentle kiss upon it. He didn’t even notice. “Lovely, lovely,” he cooed, glancing down at your bag. “It seems you’re a traveler. Is this your first time to Idylwood?”

Nervously withdrawing your hand from his, you cleared your throat just as the barmaid brought your mug of ale. You thanked her before looking back at San. “It is,” you answered. “Are you from around here?”

“Not quite,” he said, lifting his mug to take a sip before adding, “I’m from a city farther north, but I’ve visited this town on many occasions.”

You took a large gulp of your ale, which made San’s eyes widen.

“My, my, little lady! Can you hold your liquor?”

You shrugged your shoulders, licking your lips. “As much as the next, I suppose,” you answered.

That comment made him chuckle. “I like a woman who can drink, especially beautiful ladies, like yourself.” This man was either full of himself, or of ale. Either made you wary.

Your voice dropped a bit to say, “You flatter me, San…”

“Good. I meant to.” He finished off his mug and pointed to the barmaid. “Another, please!”

There wasn’t a real reason to downing the rest of your drink besides wishing you were in Seonghwa’s company. Maybe you would forget about him with this kind gentleman’s presence. “For me, as well,” you told the woman.

San was grinning ear to ear. His hand found its way to your thigh where it rested firmly. He leaned toward you. “Say, how about we share another drink and then head upstairs to my room?” His tone was low and persuasive.

You stared at him in shock. You barely knew this man, and he was wanting...that?! You shook your head and tried to move his hand away. “No, thank you,” you expressed honestly.

His smile faltered as he dug his fingers into your leg. “Aw! Why not?” He whined. “We’re having such a good time.”

Wincing at his touch, you were beginning to feel cornered, even in the middle of the room.

That was, until a hand slammed down on the table between you and San. Everyone in the room was distracted by the sound, their gazes drawn to the scene. Raising your eyes to Seonghwa, you found him hovering over you and glaring at the other man.

“She said, ‘no.’ Why is that so hard to understand? Or is it that something you can’t wrap your little half-blood mind around?” Seonghwa’s words dripped like poison from a wyvern’s stinger.

San’s expression fell solemn, standing to measure at least five inches shorter than Seonghwa. It was at that moment you realized San was a half-elf. It was hard to distinguish when he was alone, but it was much more obvious beside a true elf.

Instead of speaking to Seonghwa, San’s attention returned to you. “I thought you said you were alone…”

Your eyes widened, not sure how to respond to that. Seonghwa was becoming more like a guardian than anything. “I-I was,” you finally responded, looking up at the elf in confusion.

“Well, she’s not anymore. You may take your leave,” Seonghwa demanded, replacing San in his seat.

With a curse under his breath, San stomped away and retreated upstairs to his room.

Your eyes were mesmerized by the way Seonghwa had handled that uncomfortable situation, all for your benefit. Then, the guilt set in. “Thank you...for the third time today,” you said, hanging your head. “I’m such a pest.”

Seonghwa watched your passive manner, unsure of why it was so endearing. “Not a pest. Just too trusting,” he exclaimed. He saw a figure out the corner of his eye and leaned away to allow the barmaid more room to place a plate of food and more ale in front of you. He thanked her for you as you were still processing what he was saying.

“Still...I’m sorry you have to keep rescuing me,” you mumbled, turning to your food. Your stomach seemed to growl at the delicious scent wafting to your nose. You grabbed the fork and took a large bite of potato.

He watched you eat for a minute before looking back down to your sword. “Why do you carry that weapon if you don’t plan on using it to protect yourself?” His words were more curious than downright rude.

Chewing your food, you took a long swig of the ale to help wash it down. You weren’t sure if you wanted to tell him, but you figured you might as well if it kept him around. “It’s not my sword,” you finally answered. Your gaze was settled on your plate. “I don’t know how to use it…”

“What?” For the first time, Seonghwa looked absolutely flabbergasted. “What were you doing wandering around the forest by yourself then?! You could have died!”

You had never heard him raise his voice before, so you kept your head down. “I had no choice. I don’t have anyone left…” You gripped your fork, clearly getting upset.

Seonghwa was quiet again, hoping the silence would urge you to keep going.

It did.

“The group I was traveling with...They didn’t deserve it,” you began softly. “It was the middle of the night...and all I wanted was a drink of water from the stream near our camp. When it occurred to me that I couldn’t hear anything, it was eerie to walk back. There was no fire crackling, no snores. Everyone of my friends had been slaughtered in their sleep.” Tears of rage were forming in your eyes, but you held them back the best you could. “They didn’t deserve to die like that.”

Seonghwa sat back in his seat and ran a hand through his hair. The dark strands fell back into place over one eye. “I’m sorry for your loss,” he said with a sad sigh.

“...I dug their graves.” You dropped the fork to present your hand to him. The blisters were long gone, though calluses remained in their wake. “That was months ago. I stayed in a town for a little while, letting myself recover before I decided to continue my trek east. I haven’t run into trouble...I guess today is just an unlucky day.” Wiping your eyes, you laughed a bit before perking up to grin at him. “Oh, but not totally! I got to meet you!”

Somehow, you were able to still be happy about such things. About him. Seonghwa gave you the faintest of smiles, something he hadn’t done since you met. “Where are you headed?” He was interested to know.

“Yvemoore.”

Seonghwa quirked a brow. The same destination as he? “What business do you have there?”

“I’m looking for a friend. They’re the closest thing I have to family now,” you said before patting the shortsword at your waist. “This belongs to them. I want to return it.”

He let the thought linger in his mind. He may have hated having others slow him down, but your companionship meant your safety. He couldn’t in his right mind let you go alone. “Since I’m going in that same direction, I think it would be profitable for you to travel by my side,” he told you, quickly adding, “If that’s alright with you?”

You gasped. “Really?!” You suddenly flung your arms around him and hugged tightly. “Thank you, Seonghwa! Thank you so much! I’ll be in your care!”

With this abrupt display of affection, Seonghwa was hesitant to wrap his arms around you as well. Once he did, he felt a tightness in his chest. “Why don’t you keep eating? You’ll need your strength.” He attempted to pull away.

You sat in your chair and tilted your head. “My strength?” You questioned.

“I’m going to teach you how to use that sword on our trip,” he calmly explained, readjusting his coat. “That way you’re not completely useless.”

Even knowing him for such a short period of time, you learned that this was his way of affection. If he wanted you to come along, you couldn’t deny him. “Okay!” You chimed, digging back into your food. After finishing your drink, you beckoned for another.

[hunnybadgerv]

Sexy Shark—doo, doo, doo, doo, doo, doo | Far Cry 5 | Tayen Quick

Summary: Trapped on a island … Not really. Tayen and Sharky have a sweet and silly morning moment.

a/n: Suggestion from @AlyssAlenko in The Write Moment Sprint Channel. “Someone get this man a shirt so I can concentrate/Can you put on a shirt so I can concentrate?” Also, I may or may not have sung this title to the tune of Baby Shark … and considered having Tayen sing that rendition for him. It could still happen. Just sayin’.

AO3 Link

Sexy Shark—doo, doo, doo, doo, doo, doo

Out here about all a person could hear was the sound of the water and the birds. That’s what Tayen said she liked about it—the quiet and the illusion of calm. She’d told him she could scream at the top of her lungs and no one would freak out or come running like she’d been murdered. He wasn’t quite sure why she needed to scream like that in the first place, unless it had to do with Eden’s Gate. But if that was the cure, then perhaps the whole damned county should be out in the forest hollering like banshees.

Next to the dormant fire pit, Tayen hunched over her map, gnawing on a piece of beef jerky. Sharky had sat in the mouth of the tent watching her for a few minutes. He couldn’t say why, precisely. Maybe in the back of his head he thought it might turn out like one of those movie scenes where the one person just senses the other one looking. Then they turn and smile at each other … or more—of course, that always depended on what website you did your movie watching on.

She was clearly focused on something, so he unfolded himself slowly and walked up behind her. Leaning down, he pressed a kiss on the top of her head, “Mornin’ Chica.”

The deputy’s head turned in his direction. That’s when the surprise in her eyes softened into that fondness which made his stomach do that thing where it felt like it would turn itself inside out. “Hey,” she said, a soft smile curving her pink lips. “I didn’t wake you, did I?” Her tone contained deep concern over the possibility.

“Nah.” He let his fingers graze the edge of her jaw. “Sun did that.”

Her attention snapped to the horizon, then to her watch, back to him, and to her things spread out in front of her. “Crap.” She stuck the last bit of her preserved breakfast in her mouth and snatched up the huge paper map that covered everything else. She folded it as fast as she could manage but had to unfold it in frustration at least twice until she got it right.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, crouching down to help her fold up the waterproof ones. They were kind of idiot proof, and easier to collapse down to a manageable size.

The notebook she’d been jotting things down in snapped closed as she got to her feet.

When she stood, Sharky rose to his full height as well. “I …” she said as she turned into him. Her mouth went slack for a moment and she licked her lips. Then she swallowed as her gaze skimmed over his bare chest. “I, um.” Her dark eyes finally flicked back up to meet his.

Sharky couldn’t help the crooked smirk that curled his mouth. He rather liked it when she ogled him.

“You should get dressed?” she told him.

“You sure?” he replied, tucking his thumbs through the belt loops of his jeans. The movement worked to draw her eyes downward, and he knew they dropped past the showy belt buckle securing his pants. His skin tingled as her gaze skimmed back upward, while she secured her bottom lip between her teeth.

“Yeah,” she said, though it sounded more like a question. When Sharky didn’t move, she let out a sigh and gave him a hint of a pout. “Can you please put on a shirt,” she began, “so I can concentrate?”

His grin widened and he couldn’t bite back his laughter. “Seriously?” He might have preened a little at the idea that he could distract the deputy so easily.

Her tongue swept over her lips again and Tayen inched closer to him, into that kind of proximity he liked. She was so close he could almost feel the warmth of her skin radiating against his. Her head leaned back, and she rose on the balls of her feet. Then the tip of her nose grazed his chin, like a little butterfly kiss; her lips landed there next, pressing a gentle, sweet kiss to the same spot.

“Yes, pretty please. With a cherry on top?” The husky tone in her voice made him want to say no, but the pleading look she gave him countered it entirely. “I can’t burn another day out here on our own private tiny island, even if that’s the only thing I can think about right this second.”

“That’s what you’re thinking about?” he asked, brushing his fingers along her neck.

“Shark,” she pleaded.

The ghosting caress of her fingers on his ribs widened his smile. “Sorry ‘bout that, Dep,” he said in a tone that was anything but apologetic. The grin on his face didn’t hold a shred of remorse either. “Didn’t realize I could be quite so much trouble.”

“Yeah, you sound all broken up over it,” she chided. She rose on her tiptoes and gripped his chin; it wasn’t tight at all, just meant to get his lips into her range. The soft peck lingered.

Her lips were warm, and soft like flower petals. Sharky wished it might have deepened, but there was a sliver of him deep down, under all the rest of the things he felt for her, that knew she was right. There was work to be done. Of course, that didn’t change the fact that he now knew an easy method of stealing her attention.

The kiss broke and she swatted him on the shoulder with a map. “Get a shirt on,” she ordered with a grin and a lingering ogle.

“You know, I could just go without today, for your benefit.”

Tayen’s laughter carried over the still morning water of the lake. “How selfless of you to offer, Sharky. But what if I’m the jealous type.”

“Guess you’ll just have to protect my honor from any Peggie that side eyes me like the luscious piece of man-steak that I am.” He adored the sound of her laugh and watched her lose the battle to maintain any sense of decorum.

“Can’t argue with that logic.” She zipped her pack closed, then straightened and walked over to him as she tugged it on. “So, do me a favor, hot stuff.” Her hand wasn’t as cold as usual, but there was still a chill to it when she patted him smack in the center of his chest. Right over my heart, he thought. “Put on a shirt so I don’t have to shoot anyone I wasn’t already planning on.”

“Well,” he drawled out, “since you put it that way.” He leaned over enough to steal another kiss. She gave him another pat. “Guess it would be a shame to lose Grace or Jess to your jealous rage.”

Her laughter bloomed once more. “Yes. That would be a horrible turn of events.”

Sharky brushed her hair behind her ear and dropped a peck on her temple as she stepped away to gather the rest of their kit. He wandered over to the tent and fished out the shirt he’d shed the night before when they tiredly peeled one another out of their clothes only to pass out before any friskiness could occur. Pulling it right side out, he turned to find her staring again. This time it was just like in those movie scenes—she shot him a big grin and a playful wink.

He gave his hips a little wiggle and decided to give her a little show. His own reverse strip tease. She didn’t look away. One arm slipped into the sleeve of his t-shirt, then the other, gathering it in his hand it pulled it over his head and slipped it on. He didn’t just let it fall along his torso though, no, he inched it down nice and slow. When it was a few inches above his belt, Tayen placed her fingers to her mouth and whistled loud, then gave him a raucous cheer as she yelled, “Put it on, baby!”

Her reaction tickled him, and he laughed warmly. “Only for you, T,” he promised with a wink.

She fanned herself with her hand and pretended to swoon. He didn’t want to turn away, he wanted her to keep looking at him like that, like he was something special, but he knew they needed to go. With great reluctance, he poked his head back in the tent and grabbed his hoodie and his hat. Then picked up his own pack off the ground and strutted over to her. “Let’s get this show on the road.”

Tayen Quick’s hand fisted in the neck of his signature green hoodie and it surprised him for a moment when she yanked him toward her. When her lips touched his, the hands he raised to catch himself with went to her face. Sharky held her close. With a tiny lick at her lips, they parted, and he deepened it. She didn’t let his sweatshirt go, and he could feel her other hand tugging at the belt loop on his hip, as she pressed against him.

Knowing she was as into him as he was her, it was like a drug. Best high he’d ever known, really. And he couldn’t get enough.

[atamascolily]

lily liveblogs  watching “The Terminator” for the first time

I cannot believe no one ever told me the first ten minutes of The Terminator are filled with naked men roaming 1980s Los Angeles. In addition to full-front Arnold Schwarzenegger nudity, there's a chase scene in which Kyle Reese's actor (no slouch himself in the muscles department) runs through a clothing store, dressing himself as he goes. The narrative economy of this movie, I tell you.

Whoever decided that time travel does not involve clothing was clearly having a lot of fun. 

Also, I have no idea why the punks decided to make fun of a naked Arnold Schwarzenegger except they were probably drunk/stoned/high and fond of making poor life choices. Either that or they really were Too Stupid To Live.

Is the close up on Kyle Reese's stolen Nikes supposed to be product placement? I think it's product placement. This is the '80s after all.

OMG, a phone booth. This film was not supposed to be a period piece (or was it??), but it's unintentionally hilarious as such. Kyle Reese doesn't seem to know how to reach Sarah Connor otherwise... so the phone book gets to stand in for the Internet.

(god, if you're from his version of 2029, the fact that machines DON'T control everything seems both a) quaint and b) infinitely desirable by comparison.)

What's interesting is both the film's present and the film's future are dystopic hellholes. Yes, it's the middle of the night in Los Angeles, but the way it's filmed, with all the urban debris and trash and homeless wandering the streets very much parallels the future. The garbage truck in the present and the human-killing laser machine in the future are foils to each other.

EVERYONE'S HAIR, OH MY GOD.

It's kinda sad that food service is still visual shorthand for "sucky job" even in the present day, but you can tell Sarah Connor has spunk because she rides a moped and sasses her chain's mascot. Their outfits are terrible. And that kid putting ice cream on her--to the amusement of the assholes she's serving--what a nightmare.

Also, Sarah's friend is awesome and won my heart with one line: "In a hundred years, who's gonna care?" This takes on vast levels of irony given that Sarah Connor is the Chosen One--er, sorry, Chosen One's Mom. I really hope this friend doesn't die.

Child's toy truck getting run over by the Terminator's stolen car. NOT SUBTLE, Y'ALL.

Sarah's friend's first reaction to the news of another Sarah Connor being murdered is to track Sarah into the break room to watch. Efficient way of letting Sarah know something's up and another good character moment.

The contrast between the Terminator effortlessly starting the car and Kyle Reese's labored hotwiring is nicely done. The PTSD flashback as he watches the bulldozer thing is also very efficient way of conveying information without the need for infodumping dialogue. Of course he has a female friend who dies for added trauma. Sigh.

Oh, so she and the friend--whose name is Ginger--are roommates? Well, that explains a lot. Oh, nope, I’m wrong, different person.

SARAH CONNOR HAS A PET IGUANA, I'M CHARMED. She looks so sad holding her pet iguana while her date's voice mail message plays - no going out after she got all dressed up. But at least she has the Iguana of Consolation!

(his name is Pugsley omg omg omg asghkkfl)

Why the hell does Ginger's bf kiss Sarah on the cheek as she leaves? Are they that close to each other or is this a weird quasi-sexual harassment thing (like how he was only kinda embarrassed when she picked up the phone by mistake while he was doing his phone sex thing thinking she was Ginger?)

CREEPY PARKING GARAGE IS CREEPY.

The police are all, "shit, this is awful," and trying to do something, but it isn't going to go well. Also, you can tell it's the '80s because the police lieutenant just casually lights up indoors like it's no big deal.

Like, literally the plot of this movie depends upon a) Sarah Connor's name and address in the phonebook, and b) no cell phones. The fact that these two are intimately connected IRL amuses me greatly.

God, as soon as Ginger and her bf revealed they were staying home, I knew they were toast. The fact that they're shown having sex just makes it all the more inevitable.

I like that the police decide to get a jump on the press AND maybe alert the other Sarah Connors they haven't been able to reach by announcing it over the TV. Sarah's at a restaurant eating pizza so she actually sees it!

The only reason Sarah Connor survives is because the Terminator went very literally through the list and Kyle Reese went straight to the right person. The difference between human intelligence and AI?

I cannot BELIEVE the club doesn't check ID, but maybe it's an illegal club anyway? Nice relevant background techno.

Of course the police's gambit backfires because Sarah can't reach them when she tries to call...

OH MY GOD PUGSLEY THE IGUANA IS SO PRECIOUS (but seriously does not stay in his cage, lol). Please don't let the iguana die...

The dangers of earphones and not being able to hear your surroundings being illustrated literally as soon as the devices were invented.

OF COURSE SARAH IS GOING TO LEAVE HER VOICE MAIL MESSAGE WARNING GINGER OF DANGER AT THE WORST POSSIBLE MOMENT. And she's going to tell him her location, too. This is... god, I don't have words for this.

Sarah left her driver's license in her apartment, what? Or is that an old ID? I can't tell. Welp, now he knows what she looks like, which he clearly didn't before.

This scene where the Terminator shoots up the club with an automatic REALLY hasn't aged well. I feel sick to my stomach just watching it. Of course Sarah is the second-to-last one out and has a human shield, because of course she dies. Sigh.

"Come with me if you want to live." I think that's the first words Kyle Reese has spoken in this movie! Not that the Terminator has said much, either...

Of course the police show up at exactly the wrong moment and draw exactly the wrong conclusions. Of course they end up dead, too. Sigh.

I would say Kyle's driving is atrocious, but there's no actual roads in 2029 LA, so this is much better conditions than he's used to.

Gosh, what would this movie do without alleyways?

Sarah's like "Can you stop it?" and Kyle looks away sheepishly, all WELL I WOULD IF I HAD MY LASER WEAPONS FROM THE FUTURE INSTEAD OF YOUR PUNY '80S GUNS.

Oh, he says he's going to ditch the car, but instead Kyle finally explains things to Sarah, and we're in yet another parking garage. Parking garages and alleys, that's this movie. Oh, and hotwiring cars.

Kyle's monologue about the defense network computers setting off nuclear war is a very '80s manifestation of a very '80s fear. Several '80s fears, now that I think about it. (Wasn't this also the plot of War Games?) Not that it's not topical today, but I think it's expressed in different formats now.

I hate that Sarah is only special because she's the Source of the Savior instead of the actual savior herself. I hate this so much.

Kyle and the Terminator playing "who can shoot better while also driving" in a parking garage that seems to go on literally FOREVER, how is this possible. This is WHY shotgun is a thing.

Oh, good, he's finally letting Sarah drive while he shoots.

Ohhhh, now she's in police custody, and the Lieutenant is comforting her. I hope he doesn't die, but I know better than to hope that anyone other than the Final Girl survives this movie.

The "flex your artificial hand with a hole in it" scene is a bloody counterpart to Luke testing out his new prosthesis in ESB.

It says something about humans that the only way the machines could hunt them was to make them human-coated (human on the outside).

You can tell by the look on Kyle Reese's face when he says "Nobody goes home," that he knows he's on a suicide mission.

Why the hell doesn't John Connor go himself? Why was Kyle chosen? Because he had to lead humanity in the aftermath of Skynet's defeat or because it would make the upcoming plot twist that much more awkward? Probably both, but I wonder if they ever discussed this. "Uh... hi, dad? Dad-to-be?" (Reminder that Douglas Adams is right when he says the worst part of time travel is the grammar.)

Oh, god, the "eye repair" scene is nightmarish. Excellent job foreshadowing it, filmmakers. But still gross. So this is why he gets sunglasses.

(Does he have heat vision? Why do none of the future machines seem to have infrared sight? Wouldn't that be super-useful if you're human-hunting?)

Kyle Reese's "I DIDN'T BUILD THE FUCKING THING!" line is such a relatable mood. We the audience already knew that Time Travel = Mandatory Nudity, but I think it's a nice touch that Skynet assumed the Terminator could just work with whatever was available instead of needing to bring weapons. He’s weapon enough. 

Also, this implies the Terminator is just human ENOUGH to pass through the field, which might have been a reason they started working with human-augmented machines in the first place. The reasoning seems to be--no, really--if you put enough living human tissue over a machine, it's "alive" enough for time travel. I don't understand how this works, exactly, but fine.

Oh, good, the cops are giving her body armor now. That can only help. Oh, no, it's a fake-out to explain how the Terminator survived being shot.

I don't understand how this movie is not a walking billboard for gun control, I really don't.

Kyle Reese being all "things are going to shit and I'm going to seize the moment". I think the policeman he slugged might actually survive if he was knocked unconscious and otherwise stayed out of trouble? Don't think the Terminator's going to bother when he's got his real prey to deal with...

And the lietunant who was nice to Sarah is dead. I knew that was going to happen. Great, now the other detective is, too. Sigh. NO ONE IN THIS MOVIE GETS TO LIVE EXCEPT SARAH... and maybe Pugsley the iguana? I don't think he's dead...

Oooh, oooh, another visual theme of this movie is broken glass and smashing windows to unlock things. DON'T FORGET THE BODY ARMOR ON YOUR WAY OUT. (If that's not Chekhov's body armor, I'm going to be very surprised.)  

God, it's so weird to contrast the different fates of the Terminator franchise and the Star Wars films, especially given their similarities.

Oooh, oooh! Huddle together for warmth under a bridge! Fall in love!

Skynet has no freakin' subtlety. You can tell they're not human because they automatically decide the best way to keep Sarah Connor from having kids is to kill her, not to have her doctor give her a fake diagnosis so they can perform a hysterectomy or some other scheme. Or even just giving her birth control.

OR HOW ABOUT EVEN CREATING A SPECIAL MODEL TERMINATOR SHE COULD DATE WHO WAS STERILE AND THEREFORE SHE'D NEVER GET PREGNANT. And then Kyle Reese would be the obnoxious dude trying to break them up for the good of humanity and constantly trying to prove to Sarah her hot boyfriend is actually a robot, and Sarah just thinks he's delusional/trying to get in her pants.

(Oh, my god, I want this fic now.)

Oh, she just discovered Kyle's hurt now, ordering him to take off his clothes, there's only one way this can possibly end.

Nice contrast between the Terminator calmly repairing his bloodied self and Sarah feeling nauseous and having Kyle talk to her while she fixes him.

Oh, god, the way Kyle Reese describes John Connor makes me wonder if Kyle had a crush on HIM or if he knew he was John's father from the get-go. FICS FICS FICS, WHERE ARE THE FICS.

Oh, okay, so Reese volunteered because he wanted to meet "the legend--Sarah Connor". Please tell me she's a legend because she's a badass, not JUST because her son is important. Please. Or at least allow me to keep my illusions, okay?

The way Reese looks at her is distinctly hero-worshipping, which is kinda funny given their roles to date. Also, Sarah is pre-badass at this point -- she will become one as a result of the events of this film.

Sarah also has a problem with time travel tenses, I sympathize.

"Thank you, Sarah, for your courage through the dark years. I can't help you with what you must soon face except to say the future is not set.... You must survive or else the future will never exist."

LOL, John telling his mom she better level up or everyone is doomed... so why isn't SHE the savior again??

And--open question--what happened to HER by 2029? Why is it John and not Sarah who's in charge?

Ok, so the HKs DO have infrared, but what keeps them and the Terminator from finding people on various occasions? (Yes, plot, I know.)

"Tell me a bedtime story about your dystopic past-that-is-my-future and give me all kinds of Nightmare Fuel..." (That could have gone better.)

Where do Future Humans get their Future Guns and Gear?? Do they steal them from machines? How does that even WORK? Wouldn't it be easier for the machines to just, I don't know, get creative and kill them some other way?

Keeping with the machine-man parallels, Reese has his own "code numbers" rather like a serial number that he uses to ID himself.

DOGGIES! THERE ARE STILL DOGS IN THE FUTURE, yay!

Yup, the humans in 2029 live in squalor just like the homeless people in the film's present - which might explain why Kyle Reese is remarkably at home, with way less culture shock than you'd expect.

Too bad he and Sarah are on the run and can't go to a fast food restaurant or something fun he's never had before.

The future kids are watching a fire burn in the shell of a TV, OH MY GOD.

Like, it's kinda good the future isn't set because if this what humanity's come to, it might be better to send someone back in time and hope it goes differently? Of course, things can always get worse. Not that they had a choice - I think discovering the machines' plan forced their hand.

Kyle Reese has a photo - is that Sarah Connor? Or is that the woman who got killed earlier in the film? I can't tell.

Dogs barking at the fake people just like the dog barked at the Terminator in the '80s. Nice. Interesting they don't try to shoot the dogs.

Ahh,the photo is burning, the symbolism.... especially when Terminator's flesh melting is going to be a Thing coming up. Cut to: Sarah's sleeping face. Foreshadowing much? (Also: WORST BEDTIME STORY EVER.)

Okay, the way he brushes her face is kinda creepy and hasn't aged well. I hope Sarah has dogs in subsequent movies? I would if I were her.

OH MY GOD, the Terminator has suggested prompts for conversations and chooses "Fuck you, asshole". DYING.

Oh, he's got her address book... and her mom's address. That's how he finds her. Otherwise, there's no way this movie will end in thirty minutes.

Kyle stopping to pet the dog while Sarah gets them a hotel room is such a beautiful background moment.

Sad that even the shittiest '80s motel room is nicer than anything Kyle has ever seen.

AHHH, SHE CALLS HER MOM, this is the smart and appropriate thing to do, but there's no way this can end well for her mom.

I thought the scene was going to cut to her mom on the phone with a gun at her back (before the Terminator kills her), but she's talking to the Terminator mimicking her mother's voice and I... don't know what just happened, but pretty sure it isn't good for Sarah Connor's mom's survival. (Why they didn't go back in time and try to kill HER before she had Sarah... seems like there are so many ways to do this.)

LOL, you think Reese is going to be into food and instead he's into manufacturing explosives in the kitchen. Nice. What follows is Baby's First Improvised Weaponry Lesson.

"He'll find us, won't he?" "Probably." WELL MAYBE IF YOU HADN'T GIVEN SOMEONE YOUR ADDRESS AFTER HE TOLD YOU NOT TO, IT WOULD HAVE BEEN "LATER" RATHER THAN "SOONER", ughhhhhh.

Kyle's reaction when Sarah asks him about his previous lovers is HILARIOUS if you assume he's actually in love with John Connor. But this does answer the question of who the woman in the photo was: it was Sarah, he's been in love with Sarah the whole time (and now kinda embarassed/thrilled at the prospect of sleeping with his hero?)

I can't tell if Sarah genuinely thinks he's hot or if she just feels sorry that he's a virgin. I guess it doesn't really matter since they've been through hell together and sex is a valid way of coping. Also, while Kyle isn't  as muscular as the Terminator, he's no slouch in the shirtless department--and he's not wearing a shirt in this scene.

Kyle's admission that he "disconnects" to avoid feeling pain just heightens the machine-man continuum even further...

Oh, my god, John totally knows that Kyle's going to be his dad, and that's why he gives them the picture of Sarah. SO AWKWARD TO BE SET UP BY YOUR SON.

This is the '80s so they can't just have casual sex, he has to be in love with her, and have ALWAYS been in love with her, because this is ROMANCE, and she's the heroine (otherwise it would be morally wrong??). I get it, although this trope hasn't aged well and seems vaguely stalker-ish, even though relatively little stalking was involved.

So he loves her, but Sarah never says she loves him... but she's stressed out and exhausted and she feels sorry for him and he's hot, wtf not?

Hey, he lets her top! That was unexpected and also kinda sweet.

What was the point of Sarah telling her mother if her mother never called back and if they were only going to be there for a day? Shouldn't she be suspicious that her mom never called back? IDIOT BALL.

Kyle hears the dog barking and knows what's up right away. You can see the "oh shit" look on his face.

YET ANOTHER CAR CHASE... except now they're in a truck and the Terminator's on a motorcycle. Oh, goody. And he makes her drive once she pulls out the explosives. Oh, good, an underground tunnel!

I don't understand why the Terminator doesn't shoot out the wheels on the truck. He keeps aiming for Sarah, and I know that's his mission, but... seems like it might be easier to disable the truck first? IDK.

Of course leaning out the window makes it easier for the Terminator to shoot Kyle... now that he's delivered his Sperm Packet from the Future, his role is done and he's toast.

That's also the first moment that Sarah really takes agency by swerving and crashing the car. I think up until this point, she's just kinda gone along with everything...? NOT A COINCIDENCE.

Oh, great, now he has a tractor-trailer. Full of gas. And you have explosions. This will end well.

Wow, the Terminator didn't kill the passenger in the truck after all. Why waste energy, I guess?

I don't understand why he goes for the tractor-trailer instead of.. I don't know, just walking over and strangling Sarah? He's a lot stronger than she is and she's trapped in a wreck. I don't understand it. That seems WAY like overkill. And also gives her time to get her bearings and escape with Kyle.

Kyle jumping into the dumpster is oddly appropriate, given how often dumpsters and trash appear in this movie.

Sarah breathes a sigh of relief WAYYY too soon after the truck goes up in flames.

WHYYYY is she going so close to the flames, that's so dumb, it must be so hot and toxic fumes, whyyyyy? (So they can be RIGHT THERE when the Terminator wakes up, that's why!)

This time Sarah's the one to break a window and unlock a door. Agency! Character development! Whatever you want to call it.

Can you really turn an automated factory on that easily? Shouldn't there be... passwords, or something? But I like that Kyle does it "so he can't track us" - so the EMFs interfere with the Terminator's abilities??

And of course, there's the irony that the smart machine from the future is destroyed by by the dumb machines of the past.  Humanity's enemy is also its savior. (Can you imagine what would havehappened if the Terminator had been able to talk to them and convince them to kill the humans / figure out where they were?)

Hey, the Terminator busts down the door in its Final Form and does the EXACT SAME DOOR OPENING TRICK IT'S ALWAYS DONE.

Sarah pulls a chunk of shrapnel OUT OF HER OWN LEG. She gets to scream while she does it because she's female, but it's the foil to the other "repair/healing" we've seen - and a sign of her own transition/evolution.

Kyle's face wound mirrors that of the Terminator, AHHH I SEE WHAT YOU DID THERE.

And of course the Terminator still isn't dead even after it's lost half its body and is just this metallic torso dragging itself across the ground with its arms. Because we're still not done yet. Both Sarah and the Terminator have leg wounds, so they're both crawling, I like it. EVEN MORE PARALLELS.

Oh, god, it's on a conveyor belt now. NIGHTMARE FUEL. And then some sort of ventilation shaft? Oh, god.

And she's able to press the button as it's strangling her and issue a snappy one-liner LIKE THE ACTION HERO SHE IS! And watch its red eye stare balefully at her the entire time.

Oh, and THEN the police show up and she's put on a stretcher and bundled away. Could be worse, Kyle's on a stretcher zipped up into a body bag.

CUT TO: Sarah driving a truck in the desert. A pregnant Sarah is narrating into a microphone a message/memoir for her unborn son. There's a German shepherd in the backseat. Sarah's wearing the same headband we've seen before in Kyle's photo of her. She's got a pistol in her lap that she handles coolly and calmly.

She's in Mexico, at a gas station full of chickens. She tells John she's worried about paradox, but he has to send Kyle. So John DOES know, and gave Kyle the photograph so he'd be primed to fall in love with Sarah, thus guaranteeing his existence. The German shepherd is a Very Good Dog.

Sarah's very blunt about the fact that she and Kyle only had a few hours together, but says "we loved a lifetime's worth" and I'm not sure that checks out, but okay. Maybe on Kyle's end? I feel like Sarah barely had time for any of this, and maybe some of it is retroactive, but... anyway, maybe it's a story she tells herself so she can live with it, especially since she may not be interested, open to, or willing to risk any more relationships in the future, given that she's a perpetual target.

While she's talking about Kyle, her face twists up and a kid snaps a photo with his Kodak camera, and claims if she doesn't pay for it, his father will beat him. She knows it's a scam but takes it anyway, talking him down to four dollars instead of five.

The kid takes the money and runs away, crying about a storm coming. Sarah sighs. "I know," she says, and puts on dark sunglasses as tumbleweeds roll and she drives away, waiting for the apocalypse, towards some mountains that look awfully early-CGIish.

Credits roll. Acknowledgment to the works of Harlan Ellison - that's cool.

Wow, okay. Well that was a ride.

Reading the Wiki: I like how James Cameron decided to cast Michael Biehn as Kyle Reese because he was famous at the time, even though he's nowhere near a household name compared to the film's other stars. O.J. Simpson was floated as a possible Terminator, irony. Harlan Ellison credit was added after he threatened to sue for infringment--oh.

Also, (male) critics talk about how the Terminator represents masculinity, and the ideal man is both machine and human? I guess I don't really see the Terminator as ideal masculinity, but that's a rant for another day...

Also: wtf happened to the iguana??