#do you think i have 5k hours in this game because i HATE it?? babes i like to spend my time doing things i ENJOY.

[beebeesiims]

never beating the shady hatin' ass bitch allegations.

i'm so over some of y'all. like all of the valid criticism there is for this game (and there's plenty), and y'all CHOOSE to sound stupid. when are simblrs going to win the recognize you're in the minority of players challenge? never.

like how dare EA make content for 89% of their player base instead of never releasing anything else new and only allowing people who play with mods to have things. do you know how you sound???????

[closer-stars]

By Your Side - San

Member: San Requested: Yes @hoe9for9kpop Genre: Fluff Word count: 5k+ Content: Jealousy. Don’t forget to communicate ! San needs reassurance. Bit of angst. Wholesome stuff.  Note: this took... forever. I tried. I went through a bit of a writer’s block somewhere but I got through it. I hope it’s okay?

The male looks up from his computer upon hearing a few knocks against the door. “San-ah! Is it okay if one of my friends stays at our place for a week?” You ask simply. Your boyfriend looks at the phone in your hand then at your features. 

“Yeah, that’s fine. What’s going on, babe?” He asks before you return your attention to the phone.

“My friend needs a place to stay for some business thing but his company won’t cover his living expenses.” You return with a frown. He doesn’t say anything else but a nod, quickly returning to his game, yelling at Yunho to save him. He did make a mental note to ask you more about this after, right now he had to make sure he and Yunho last through the entire round. 

“Hey, babe. Who’s this friend of yours?” He asks casually over dinner. He doubts his memory sometimes, there were times where he doesn’t remember things especially when explained to him while he was tired. He notices how your eyes brighten up and how happy you look as you explain that they were an old friend since high school. Both of you kept in touch even if he moved elsewhere before the start of university. While you were in the middle of telling him stories, his phone rings. He gives you an apologetic look, seeing that it’s from the company. His schedules can start at the weirdest times sometimes. You don’t mind though, it’s part of his work. 

While you were cleaning up the dishes, he immediately returns to you after the call. “Are you sure we can still let my friend stay? I don’t want it to go in between your work.” You say as you put the plates in the cabinets. You were already devising a plan for your friend in case you had to retract your offer. He helps clean up the counters as he laughs softly at your concern. “Baby, don’t worry. Your friend can still stay with us. My manager just had to remind me of my early schedule tomorrow. We can still pick up your friend from the airport three days from now,  right?” He says, making it a point to show that he was paying attention to what you’ve been talking about. 

You couldn’t help but flash a smile of gratitude at him, and press a kiss on his dimpled cheek. 

“Love you, babe.” 

The following days moved by a lot faster than you expected and maybe it was because you were just excited to see your friend again. While San was at the company for preparations for their upcoming promotions, you stayed at home cleaning the place up along with the room your friend will be staying in for the next few days. Once you are satisfied with how your place looks, you immediately get yourself changed to get ready to go to airport. San messaged you a few minutes ago that he was near and once he freshens up, both of you could head to the airport to pick your friend up. 

The trip to the airport was a little endearing in his eyes. Your knee was shaking as you looked at the road in front of you. “Babe, we’ll get there in time.” San reminds you in between giggles. You look at him with a sheepish smile. “Sorry..” You mumble, embarrassed. He shakes his head, assuring you that there was nothing to be sorry about. He leans over to press a peck on your lips. “Anything for you.”

Both of you arrive at the airport with a few minutes to spare before your friend comes out. They’ve already told you what they were wearing and you to them, even telling them you brought your boyfriend with you. You lean your forearms against the railing, your eyes trained on your phone screen or on the door, trying your best to not look like you were about to vault through the door. 

“What are they wearing, babe?”

You open your phone again. “Black jeans, red coat, white shirt and his luggage’s navy.” 

San looks at you with a bemused look. “Are you sure that’s not Mingi?” 

“If it was, I would’ve just booked an AirBnB for him.” You joke in return. Just then, the doors slide open to let those who had arrived to head out after claiming their luggage. Both of you shift your attention to the people trickling out, looking for anyone who would match the description. 

“There!” You exclaim, waving at a male. San looks at the direction your eyes were set on. He didn’t know your close friend was another man-- well he never did ask, nor did you ever tell him. Oops. His chest tightens slightly at the fact you were so elated to see them again. He didn’t like this feeling either, internally fighting it out as you welcome your friend warmly. ‘He’s just a friend. I’m still the boyfriend.’ He reminds himself over and over as he slowly trails behind you. 

“Hwamin! This is San, my boyfriend. San, Hwamin.” You introduce them to each other, hoping that things go well with the two for the week. Polite bows were exchanged, along with other niceties. San doesn’t want to show his discomfort still, and tries to swallow his insecurities for the moment as he offers to take Hwamin’s luggage from him as they head to their car.  

“Thanks, San.” Hwamin says, a little relieved to have the tension in his arms be lifted after the hours of being in a plane and dragging his luggage. The trip back to the apartment was the same, you and Hwamin exchanging stories as you fill each other up on what the other has missed. San was on the wheel and for once he was thankful he was in charge of driving, just so he could avoid being part of the conversation. San kind of wishes he could get home quicker without risking a ticket, the sooner they get home, the sooner he can escape the conversation and his thoughts. 

They arrive at their apartment in one piece. “The traffic here hasn’t changed. It’s still better than America’s.” Hwamin says with a tired laugh. The two boys lift the luggage into the place, both of them huffing at the amount of effort they had to exert. 

“Just what did you pack…” San mutters in disbelief. There was no way a luggage that was roughly the same size as his usual luggage, could be heavier than what he carries in his months long tours. 

“Some snacks that they like, and for you. Also heard you were into plush dolls, so..” explained the other as he pushes the luggage into the living room for him to unpack what he can use for the night. 

“Hwamin, you can fix your things later. Aren’t you tired?” You ask as you bring the two men some food to snack on. It was already too late for any restaurant to be open unless they wanted to drink then that’s another topic. Just as he managed to grab his clothes for the night and the following day, he manages to toss a small packet of your favorite chips. It was a gift from the higher beings that you had quick reflexes to catch the packet mid-air.

“Don’t think I forgot, kid. To answer your question, I am but still riding that freedom out of a plane y’know?” was his return as he downs his water. San on the other hand, had front row seats to how the two of you talk. Is this how his friends felt when he and you would be that sickeningly sweet couple or worse? San manages to finish his glass of water before rising from his seat. He makes it a point to press a kiss on your forehead before bidding the both of you a good night. 

“I’ll see you two in the morning.” were his only words the entire night before he retreats to his room. Hwamin and you look at him slip away, one out of curiosity, the other out of concern.

“Is he okay?” Hwamin asks.

“He has a long day tomorrow..” You trail off. It was true but you don’t sound that convincing even to yourself. You shake your head and get up as well. “Come on, I’ll show you your room and where the bathroom is.” After having done as you said, you retreated into your shared room with San for the next few days. 

You peek into the room and already find him in bed. A sigh slips through your lips, quietly getting your sleep wear and slipping into the bathroom to clean yourself up after a long day. You then quietly slip into bed next to him, your arm lightly resting on his waist. 

What you didn’t know was that San was still awake the entire time. Instead of sleeping, he was on his phone while you were still talking to Hwamin, hiding his phone when you entered the room and doing the same when you slipped into bed. He hated how his emotions were slowly making him act out. He didn’t like how you looked so concerned over him when he hushed up as you and Hwamin conversed. He didn’t want to let you know how shitty his emotions were either. How many talks have the both of you exchanged in the past about his insecurities and jealousy? Even before being a couple, the both of you have talked about his jealousy streak and until now, it still affects him. 

If he was still going to be this jealous and insecure over your relationship, did he even deserve you at all? 

San woke up to his phone alarm buzzing. 5AM. He had to get ready for his schedules today. He looks to his side to see you, still peacefully asleep. If he was jealous last night of how you and Hwamin clicked so naturally, he’s jealous now of how you’re able to get a few more hours of sleep. He lets his lips graze against your temple, letting your arms now wrap around the seal plush toy a fan gave him. When he rises from your bed, you shuffle and whine slightly, slipping in and out of consciousness. San quickly hushes you, “Go back to sleep, babe.”. He quietly gets ready for his day, putting everything he needs for the day in his backpack. Just as he steps out of his room, he’s greeted by Hwamin fixing his luggage. “Oh-- hey, morning.” He greets, awkwardly. 

Hwamin looks up, smiling brightly at the male. Damn, how was it possible for anyone to be this smiley at this hour? He takes it as an effect of jetlag. “Morning, San! You’re up early too.” He says as he puts his things aside. Hwamin’s amber eyes finally take notice of San’s outfit. “Ah, right, they told me you were gonna have a long day today. Good luck with work!” San finds himself feeling awkward with such an open personality at this hour, rubbing the back of his neck. He bows to the male and makes his way to the door. 

“Oh yeah, they won’t be up until around three hours later. So if you’re hungry, be our guest and cook something if you need.” He calls out from the door, quietly slipping out. It’s only when the manager picks him up that he lets out the groan he’s been aching to let out. The manager hands him his breakfast for the day, letting the male rant what has happened in the past few hours. 

“San, if you don’t want to deal with him, just sleep at the dorm with the boys for the entire week.” The manager had a point. You wouldn’t have to deal with his jealousy fueled antics. Yet, he also knew that you’d want to have him and Hwamin interact. 

Taking the easy way out just wasn’t him.

He shakes his head as he starts to eat. “Hyung, I promised them I’d be with them this entire week because of their friend. Going back on my word isn’t me-like right?” That made the manager snort in agreement, remembering the days of trainee San making promises and actually keeping them no matter how crazy they were. 

“Okay but if anything happens, your room with Yunho is still there.” 

You wake up to an empty bed and a seal plushie smiling up at you. 8:30AM. You push yourself up and look at your phone. 

[ Sannie ] Don’t forget to eat breakfast! I’ll be home late today :( 

You send him a heart sticker as you start your day. You worked as an editor and writer for an online magazine so you were blessed to be able to work from home but for today, you had to give Hwamin a ride to his meeting. Maybe you could work on your articles there.  

You quickly get ready for the day but are slowed down by the smell of… were those pancakes? You peek out, already in your outdoor clothes. Hwamin was setting down a small stack of pancakes for the both of you in the living room. “Morning sleepyhead.” He teases, gesturing at you to take a seat.

“Since when did you know how to cook?!” You ask incredulously. The pancakes were topped with some fruits you still had in the refrigerator. “Since I started living with my girlfriend-- well fiance” He notes, casually. “Oh yeah, I didn’t make coffee for you since I don’t even know if you’re drinking coffee now also.. How do you even make your coffee machine work?”

You stop him quickly, putting a strawberry tipped fork at his face. “You’re what!?” Good morning to you indeed. “Also, yes I drink coffee! I’ll teach you the coffee machine later.”

He laughs. Clearly nothing has changed. He brings out his phone to show you the lucky girl. “Met her in one of my business classes. Dude, if I could just introduce the two of you..” He says with such a dreamy sigh. 

“You are telling me all of this later. Right now, we have pancakes to eat and an hour drive to your meeting.” You say with more energy than a cup of cold brew could give you. 

You spend the next few hours working on articles, making sure all of these were already good enough to be sent to the layout team. A few tables over, Hwamin was discussing deals with other heavy names in the industry. You decide to shoot San a message in the midst of your break. 

[ To: Sannie ] Make sure you get something to eat eventually! 

A quick glance at the time. He was going to perform in a few minutes so you decide to look for a live stream. You managed to find one just in time to see them step on stage and be in position. It didn’t take much of a brain to know that ATEEZ was a force to be reckoned with. You’ve watched San become who he is, through the ups and downs, and though you weren’t a performer, your eyes have become accustomed to understand the tricks and trades of their art. 

This time, your eyes catch sight of how San performs a little harder than usual. While to fans, this might look like he was embodying the entire piece, and to a degree that’s true. To you, you knew just how hard San can go when his performance is fueled by something personal. Today was one of those days and you were a little worried if something had happened prior. Despite that, you had to give the boys credit where it was due. 

[ To: Sannie ] you guys did well today! I’m so proud of you, babe. ^^

You tell Hwamin that you’ll be in the coffee shop next to this restaurant to continue with your work before scurrying away to not disrupt the meeting any longer. 

San on the other hand was breathing harder than usual, hunched over as he tries to get air into his aching lungs. Who knew performing such a strong song would aid in him dealing with his own personal issues. He’s winded from performing so hard while they still had another performance to go to that day. Performing with an unfocused mind was dangerous, he of all people knows this. They can’t risk another injury: Jongho was still recovering from his leg injury and Seonghwa could barely sit comfortably from his hip injury. If he were to get injured, it was going to be a bigger issue and a longer delay for their next album. 

“Hyung, are you okay?” Jongho calls to him.

The fox-like male shakes his thoughts away as he detaches the in ears and mic from his head. “Yeah, I’m fine.” He rasps out before taking small sips of water. The youngest doesn’t take his word for it but drops it. They had to get ready to bounce to their next schedule. Their staff has already packed everything up for them so all they had to do was get their personal belongings then bounce. San follows the rest of the members as he reads through your texts and it just makes his chest hurt more than it already does. 

Your words were genuine but why doesn’t he feel them to be so? 

The ride to the next schedule was quiet, everyone catching up on sleep after waking up so early for those five to eight minutes on stage. “Hyung, what time will our schedule end?” San mumbles to Seonghwa, his head resting against the window. The eldest looks over at the burdened male. From one look, Seonghwa already knew what was in his mind. 

“Probably 2 AM.. and San?”

“Yeah?”

“Same problem?”

That made him sigh in exhaustion. Besides you, Seonghwa was one of the most observant to the mood shifts among the members. Seonghwa didn’t need him to expound. He just needed to let San know that the members are there for them and that you weren’t going anywhere. As much as this guy was particular with how he speaks to people around him, he could be careless when it came to himself. 

“San, you really need to talk to them soon.” 

San knew what he meant by that. The last time he kept it to himself was horrific for everyone but right now, he just didn’t have the heart to do it. Not when Hwamin was going to be at home whenever he was too. He just nods at Seonghwa’s words but his thoughts swam with insecurities and constant comparisons he put himself against your best friend. He closes his eyes, trying to get some shut eye before they’ll be back on their feet for who knows how long. He falls asleep eventually but still his mind was clouded with thoughts and questions, all of which are baseless.

He knows this but he feels powerless to it.

Hongjoong wakes them up when they arrive at their last schedule for the day. He had to admit that having grown so much in a span of two years had its cons. One of them was having to perform in three different points of an entire concert. Being the opening, the middle and closing was to a degree a good thing but when you’re riddled by insecurities and less sleep. It’s just a bad combination for him. 

San finally arrives home and all the lights are closed to which he assumes that you and Hwamin are sleeping. It’s only when he enters when he notices the stray light that’s still on in the kitchen. He sees you. He sees you still on your laptop working-- or at least it looks like you’re still working. Without another word, he finds himself nuzzling against your neck, arms wrapped around your torso. 

“Welcome home, babe.” You murmur. Just as you were about to rise and get him some food, he tightens his hold around you. “Baby, it’s late.. You need to eat.” A gentle chide that had him whining against your neck but relenting to your concern. A quick peck to the top of his head was his reward for listening then he slips onto the chair next to yours. He doesn’t mean to but he catches sight of what’s on your laptop screen. Short clips of his performances today, along with what fans have been talking about. 

“You watched this performance too?” San asks, raising his eyes to your figure. Though he couldn’t see you nod. You do. 

“How can I not?” You say in return as you make sure the portions were enough for him. “I always watch your performances, babe. No matter how late or early they are.” There it was again. That pang in his chest that tells him you deserve so much better. So much better than a man who comes home and leaves home at odd times, who leaves home for months on end. He swallows all of it with the food you’ve made for him. He wants to cry but he’s too tired. 

“How was your day?” He asks after a few spoonfuls. Your voice lulls him to peace. You tell him about your day, joking about becoming Hwamin’s chaperone in his stay here. Even if your voice brings him to peace, his thoughts bring him chaos. Where your voice ends, the comparisons begin. How would it be if he did a “normal” job? Would things be better? Would he have even met you? 

Once he is finished with his late dinner (or was it an early breakfast), he waits for you. You raise the question of what his schedule will be for tomorrow. “Thankfully it’s not as killer as today’s but I still have a photoshoot for tomorrow and an interview.” He says through an exhausted chuckle. You look at him properly after washing the dishes. He looked so worn out. He hasn’t even removed his makeup. 

“Let’s wash you up and get you ready for bed, babe. It’s been a long day. I’ll wake you up for your schedule tomorrow okay?” 

He’ll take what he can get to put these demons away from his head. 

He wakes up to you gently shaking him awake. “Rise and shine, baby. I made you some waffles.” That was enough to get him to sit up. The bedhead makes you chuckle. “Go get freshened up. Your breakfast’s ready.” You say as you pat his hips before leaving the room. He rubs his eyes, and finds his hands free of any makeup residue. Did you help clean him up? The man looks at his phone. 10 AM. His photoshoot and interview were at 2 PM. Enough time for him to wake up and be a proper human being before facing society. He pushes himself out of bed, staggering to the bathroom to wake up. 

By the time he comes out of his room in a fresh set of clothes, he’s greeted by the scent of waffles and coffee. “Where’s Hwamin?” He asks, feeling a little odd even in his own space to the absence of your best friend. 

You slide his share towards him. “His business partners picked him up, earlier today. I think they’re meeting other potential brand partners?” You return with a shrug of your shoulders, business was never your forte after all. 

He nods, a part of him a little relieved to at least have the morning with you to himself. As he slowly eats, he finds his mind going back to these inner demons. 

10:45 AM.

“Babe?”

“Yes?”

“Can we talk…?” 

It’s crazy how three words can make your heart skip a beat. While the other three words makes either of you feel lighter, these three make you feel heavy. Your eyes tear away from your laptop screen, wondering what has been in his head. The look on his face made it easy to know that this was going to be one of those talks. You put your laptop aside and face him properly. 

“What’s been going on, babe?”

He picks at his food almost pitifully. The look on your face hurts him more than usual because he knows he’s at fault for putting such a look on your face. “I just…” he starts but he’s unable to find the words to properly articulate his turmoil. “It’s so stupid.” he continues out of frustration. 

“It’s not stupid, San. If it affects you this much then it’s something important.” 

His features morph into something like a plea. A plea to help him straighten his thoughts out, to save him from these demons that continue to fuel his insecurities. “Insecurities…” he trails off again, taking a deep breath to calm his nerves. “It’s just, I have this small fear that you’d eventually leave me. I haven’t even known Hwamin properly but seeing how you two are gave me the idea that you deserve someone better. Someone who doesn’t come home or leave at the weirdest times. Someone who can stay with you through anything. His work’s more stable than mine too if you think about it.” The longer he goes on, the more his words sound convoluted and all you can do as he lets this out is to hold his hand. You listen carefully, letting him know that you’re paying attention to every single word. It’s when he starts to look like he’s about to cry that you sit next to him and have him wet your skin with his tears of frustration and exhaustion. The build up of stress from his work and the sudden presence of your friend and his insecurities had climaxed into this melt down. 

You let him cry quietly, his hands clinging to your shirt as if it were his life line. It takes a while before his breathing evens out and that’s when you peek at his features, wiping away the wet trail of tears on his cheeks. “Babe..” You start and you tip his chin to have him look at you in the eye. “Again and again. I will always be here to fight your demons away. I’m not going anywhere without you. You’re the only one I want and this life I have with you is miles better than a life with anyone else.” You say. Your lips press light kisses against his eyelids, the tip of his nose, his chin then his lips.  “Hwamin is simply my best friend. Nothing more. Even if your work brings you to the otherside of the world, I will gladly follow if you ask. Even if I tell you to not question how you deserve me or what not, I’ll be here to remind you every single time. It’s because I love you.”

He smiles. Smiles wide enough for his dimples to show and while it doesn’t make his eyes turn into small crescents, it’s wide enough to speak of relief. He presses his lips against yours again. “I love you so much.” He declares quietly, his forehead leaning against yours and you can’t help but giggle. 

“I love you too, babe. Now go eat! You still got a schedule later!” You tease him as you decide to feed this baby of yours before shooing him off to get ready. 

The next few days go by without a hitch. Hwamin’s meetings were already done and he was already flying back in two days. He and Hwamin have become friends as if they’ve been friends longer than you have with Hwamin. He found his insecurities to be a little childish considering him and Hwamin were now bonding over video games. Especially after knowing that he was already engaged to his long time girlfriend. If bonding can be considered as both of them trying to beat the other in a classic game of Tekken. You had left them alone for the rest of the day as you had to go on errands for your work. 

San starts to squeak in panic as he tries to avoid the final blow from Hwamin but all his efforts go down the drain as Hwamin takes the winning hit. 

“Rematch!!” 

“Nah, I won fair and square San.”

As they look through another arena, their conversation turns back to Hwamin. It felt all the more childish when he realized this guy was already engaged. “You’re getting married when?” San asks as he tries to choose a better fighter this time. 

“Next year but right now, we’re both focusing on our work.” He explains as tries to avoid the rapid kicks and tosses San tries to land on him. The two bounce from topics of relationships, you, health and work, almost acting like siblings. 

By the time you entered the room, they were still at it. Only now they were trying their own skills at playing dirty in a racing game. You couldn’t believe it really but you were happy. Two of your favorite boys in your life, being in good terms with each other to the point they were fighting it out through a video game. 

It was San who notices your presence first. “Hey babe!” He says almost in a hurry to try and beat Hwamin’s player. You watch the TV as the boys start to try and distract each other in order to win. San eventually wins with a few seconds on his side, causing Hwamin to groan in defeat. “Why didn’t you tell me you had a punk phase back in grade school?”

You stare at Hwamin and he looks away as if he hadn’t heard anything. “Give me the other controller. I’m making sure I beat both of you in this.” 

The three of you were at the airport. This time to drop off Hwamin. You had to fight the tears from spilling. It was a good week you had to admit despite the rough start, for it to end so quickly had admittedly made you a little emotional. No wonder you and San were an item. Hwamin pats San’s back. “Make sure to take care of them okay?” San nods with a determined grin. 

“Congrats on your engagement too. Can’t wait to see the both of you make it official.” 

Hwamin then gives you an almost bone crushing hug. “Beat his ass in Tekken for me.” He jokes. You roll your eyes at him and give him a playful jab at his abdomen. “On a more serious note, thank you really. You’ve grown well. I better see you in my wedding.” He says as he walks backwards, waving at the both of you. The both of you wave at him until he becomes a small speck. 

The two of you return to your car and San couldn’t help but steal a quick peck on your cheek. 

“What was that for?”

“Nothing. I’m just thankful for having you by my side.” 

“Always.”

[jadekitty777]

Pier

Sorry I’m late y’all! Day 3 was not technically finished and I originally planned to just split the entry into two chapters and maybe finish this one off later but... instead my dumb ass was like: No! Finish it!

So I did and now it is past midnight. I am very tired and things may not be edited properly.

I also gave up the secret on this one to a few readers... this entry is actually a continuation to Umbrella, which I had written a few weeks back. I do recommend reading that one first.

Day 3: Family

Dedicated to: @chiherah/@chiherahcreations

Rating: K+

Pairing: Qrow/Clover, Raven/Tai/Summer

Word Count: 5k

Ao3 Link: Pier

Summary: Every year, it was a tradition for Qrow to head up to Lake Bowen and spend the holidays with his sister's family. It was not, generally, tradition to bring a boyfriend along for the ride. [Modern AU]

~

Qrow flicked on his turn signal, fingers drumming a nervous rhythm over the steering wheel as he waited for the light to turn. Usually, he was relieved once he’d hit this stoplight, as it acted as a beacon marking the last leg of the grueling four-and-a-half hour drive it took to get from his little apartment in Wilmington to his sister’s grand cottage in Lake Bowen. It was a chance to finally stretch out his legs and get tackled down by his little gremlin nieces who would spend the majority of the next three days begging to know what he got them for Christmas. He’d get a glass of iced tea and a hug from Tai and a kiss on the cheek and a cookie from Summer before they both banished him from the kitchen. Spent the better part of the waning afternoon munching on finger food while catching up with Raven and entertaining Yang and Ruby as they tried to tug him into half a dozen different games.

At least, that’s how it was supposed to go.

But typically he didn’t have someone else with him.

“Everything alright?” That same someone else who had also easily picked up on his growing anxiety.

“Yeah, fine.” He said gruffly, turning left as the light finally changed.

“That was convincing.” There was a rustling as Clover set aside the newspaper he’d been reading (the dork had to be one of the last of the dozen living humans left to have a subscription), turning his full attention on him. “Come on babe, what’s on your mind?”

He glanced at him and it was a mistake, because there was no way he could argue when looking into those earnest teal eyes – especially when looking through those cute, wire-rim reading glasses. He sighed, fingers starting up their drum solo once more. “I just want this week to go well.”

“Why do you think it won’t?”

“Because,” He faltered, chewing on the edge of his lip. “My sister’s side of the family isn’t exactly what you’d call normal.”

“So you’ve said, about a thousand times.” Clover replied, “And as I’ve said a thousand and one times, it’s fine. I’m not gonna start judging the people you love just because they aren’t a traditional nuclear family.”

Qrow gave a noncommittal hum. Kept drumming.

He wasn’t really worried about that – though, he didn’t quite forget the nightmare when one of his partners tried to exposit some ‘helpful advice’ about the Rose-Xiao Long-Branwen family’s living situation. Raven had near about shoved the carving knife in Kimi’s chest when she tried to enlighten to Summer how three people sleeping in the same bed will give the children questionable ideas. After getting thoroughly screamed at by three furious adults, his girlfriend had run out of the house in tears – and stole his car to get away from his ‘crazy fucking family’. It had taken him a good two months to get it back, and he certainly didn’t get her back with it. Not that it was a great loss.

Come to think of it, that disaster was the last time he’d braved bringing anyone by at all. Ruby hadn’t even been talking yet.

“Alright,” Clover’s voice broke him from his thoughts. “Let’s try something different. What’s the biggest thing you’re afraid of?”

“Snakes.”

A snort. “Qrow.”

“I mean, it is.” He guaranteed. “They’re scaly and slithery and gross and Raven put one in my bed when I was ten and I never forgave her for it.”

Clover gave his arm a light smack. “About the meeting, birdbrain.”

Qrow rolled his eyes. “Oh, bird insults, how original.”

“I’m a classics kind of guy.”

“You are not Mr. I-haven’t-seen-anything-made-before-the-80s.”

“You’re avoiding the question.”

He opened his mouth, then shut it. Frowned at the street they were driving over. “It’s just, what if they don’t like you?”

His boyfriend tilted his head. “All of them?”

His fingers clenched over the wheel. “What if you don’t like them?”

“All of them?” He echoed with a touch more amusement.

He grunted, slouching low. “Okay I get it, I’m being dumb.”

“No, you’re not. It’s normal to be stressed out about this. I was just trying to point out your fears are probably getting the better of you. Do you really believe all of us are going to just hate each other?” Clover refuted gently. Qrow liked that about him, how he could so easily retrack his mind out of the harmful places they tended to journey to.

“Maybe not all of you. But Raven? Definitely.” He grunted. “She hasn’t liked a single person I’ve dated, ever.”

“Um.”

He shot him a look. “What?”

Clover grinned guiltily in return. “We’ve talked about some of the people you’ve dated and your track record isn’t the best.”

Mildly offended, he snipped back, “Oz was a good one!”

“The guy with four kids?”

“It wasn’t that he had four kids, it was that he lied about having four kids.” When all he got was an arched a brow as if to say ‘that’s better?’, Qrow scowled. “Shut up.”

Clover laughed. It wasn’t long before he was laughing with him. He liked this about him too, how an air of comfort always seemed to surround his boyfriend. He was always ready to lighten the mood with a joke, a smile or his laugh, which even after the seven months they’d been dating, Qrow was still utterly captivated by. More than that, he was slowly coming to the realization he didn’t want to go a day without it – or without Clover.

He knew things were getting serious, which was why he so desperately needed this week to go well. He needed his family to support his new relationship and he needed Clover to accept his strange little family. Because if he got those two simple things, then he would see there was a possibility for a future in which Clover was part of his family.

He knew that fateful meeting was coming closer as he spotted the last landmark they had to cross before they would find themselves at the house. “There’s the bridge.”

As they started over the lake, it was comically cartoonish how he could practically see the sparkle effect in Clover’s eyes as he plastered his face against the window. With no traffic behind them, Qrow slowed the car down to give him a chance to really take it in.

Once, when he’d been invited on yet another date to the beach, he’d joked that Clover was just like his namesake because, as a weed, it was only natural he’d want to suck up as much of the surrounding water as possible. It wasn’t just the sea he was completely enamored by, but also lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, and anything and everything in between. Heck, even their first true meeting was thanks to his obsession – Clover eventually admitted the only reason he’d left early that day was because he wanted to go out and enjoy the rain.

“As luck would have it, I got to enjoy some great company along with it.” He had said with a wink.

Qrow wouldn’t say he necessarily understood it, but it was impossible not to enjoy the excited way Clover would go on about subglacial lakes or tell stories about how he used to catch newts whenever spring came around and tried to keep them as pets. Topics that he probably would otherwise have found boring was different seeing it through the lens of someone so passionate – and Qrow knew he was just the same whenever he talked about fencing or birds. He still recalled the night their interests made a rare alignment, when they ended up having a long talk about Kingfishers.

He knew if he told anyone about that night, they’d probably just laugh and tell him how dull it sounded. And yet, for him, it remained as one of his favorite dates.

“Man, how incredible it must be just to live out here.” Clover said after they’d made their way across, the lake giving way to land once more and opening into a very small business district. “How does your sister’s family afford it?”

“It’s inherited. Tai’s uncle willed it to him when he passed.” He took a left, heading up towards the lakeside neighborhood. The street itself narrowed considerably, and spindly, white-trunked ash trees flanked them from either side.

“His uncle did?” He echoed, not hiding his confusion.

“Yeah. I don’t know all the details but he basically raised him. So, I guess he was more like his surrogate dad than anything.” Qrow explained, feeling his anxiety spike as the two-story dwelling peeked between dense vegetation. “Heh, actually I’m pretty sure that’s why Tai’s so insistent I come visit so much. He probably invites me over more than my own sister does.” Scratch that, he definitely did.

He pulled down the driveway to the garage situated in the back. As the house was on the waterside, the front was facing towards the lake and the driveway and garage were in the rear. It was a bit strange, but he’d gotten used to it over the years, just like he’d gotten used to the fact the dwelling was one of the most unique in the neighborhood. Made to appear like a log cabin, it seemed more suited for a place in the middle of the woods or up in the mountaintops. Tai’s little sunflower garden framed either side of the doorway, and bushes of roses and birds of paradise were interspaced down the west and eastern sides of the house. From memory, he remembered the front had a large porch with an overhang and a path made of stones that led from the door down to the small, privately owned pier.

The engine was cut, and he heard the passenger door opening - but Qrow stared blankly at the dash, hoping the next ten seconds would be enough to mentally prepare him for the next seven days.

“Hey. Look at me.” Clover’s larger, tanner hander covered his own, thumb brushing over his knuckles that had whitened from their too-tight grip on the wheel. It took him a moment to tear his gaze from the touch to actually do as asked, and was consoled by the tender, reassuring smile his boyfriend gave him. “Everything’s going to be fine.”

He swallowed down the lump in his throat. “How are you so calm about this?”

“’Cause I’ve got you at my side. Just knowing you’re with me gives me courage.”

The words made his heart stutter. It stuttered again when Clover lent forward to kiss him. His eyes slipped closed, giving back as much as he was given. The strength he’d been looking for filled him so that when they finally pulled away and exited the car, the knot that had been in the pit of his stomach had loosened its hold considerably. Just in time, as faint barking from inside definitely announced their arrival, drawing his attention to the back door.

A second later, the screen door came flying open as his youngest niece came barreling out of it, screaming at the top of her lungs, “UNCLE QROW’S HERE!!”

It was hard to tell if the snickers on the other side of the car were from the seven-year old’s antics or perhaps from her odd sense of fashion, as she was sporting a long, red bathroom robe that he swore was Raven’s, what appeared to be an old Flash costume from Halloween, and a pirate’s hat. As she came racing towards him, he realized she also had on light-up shoes.

He lent down, scooping Ruby up and lifting her effortlessly. “Hey there pipsqueak.”

She snuggled into his shoulder. “I missed you.”

“Missed you too.” He kissed the top of her head. “So, what’s with this little getup?”

She pulled at the loose belt meant to hold the robe closed. “Mama said you might need saving, so I dressed the part.”

“Did she now?” He carefully kept the annoyance off his face but oh, was he so getting his sister back for that.

“Uh-huh! I’m Rapid Ruby, at your service!” She tipped her hat.

Before Qrow could think up an appropriate response, a coo of ‘Ooh who’s this little guy?’ drew his attention towards his boyfriend. The man was kneeling on the ground, accepting little licks from what was certainly not a little guy. In fact, it had to be the fattest corgi he’d ever seen in his life. The poor thing was shaped exactly like a swiss roll cake and colored like one too.

“That’s Zwei! Mommy brought him from her office.” His niece chirped brightly, but when Clover looked up at her, she shrunk against Qrow’s neck, trying to hide. His hero.

He rubbed her back soothingly. “Ruby, this is Clover. You remember me talking to you about him over the phone right?” She only gave a little whine. “He’s left-handed, like you.”

That got her to lift her face, looking at the man with a wary curiosity. “Do you have to use special scissors too?”

“I do.” Clover smiled at her, still kneeling on the ground so he appeared less threatening. Or maybe he just wanted to get more kisses from the dog, it was hard to tell.

“And can openers are dumb, right?”

“The dumbest.”

“And, and!” She tapped her chin, thinking hard. “Have you ever taken your mommy’s tea by accident during lunch and had to spit it out cause it’s gross?”

He chuckled. “Not tea, but I did take a swig of my dad’s whiskey once.”

Ruby spat out her tongue. “Yucky!”

“Yeah, it really was.”

“Well,” An orotund voice cut in. “It’s nice to see everyone getting along out here.”

Mostly content to just watch the two’s adorable exchange, Qrow hadn’t notice the newcomer who had stepped outside, a welcoming grin spread on Tai’s face as he approached.

Newcomers, he amended, as he spotted Raven watching them from the threshold.

He juggled Ruby carefully, holding out an arm to accept the side hug his brother-in-law gave him. “Good to see you brother.”

“You too. Glad you could make it.” Tai ruffled his hair before he pulled away to shake Clover’s hand. “It’s nice to meet you! Qrow’s told us a lot.”

“Likewise.”

Before things could potentially get awkward, Qrow cleared his throat. “So Tai, what’s with the cake roll?”

The blond glanced back at him, then down at the dog who plopped down at his feet. “Zwei? Someone dropped him off a few weeks ago. No tags or chip. And you know Summer, she just couldn’t leave him to starve in a cage.”

“Think starving’s the least of his problems.” He grumbled under his breath.

“She’s a vet, right?” Clover spoke up.

“Yeah, we run a little place together. But you’d swear, with how many animals get abandoned there that we’re actually the town shelter.” Tai joked. “We usually end up fostering the ones in need of special care.”

Ruby tugged at his shirt collar, excitement sparkling in her eyes. “Daddy says we’re gonna keep him.”

“No. Daddy said we will discuss keeping it.” Raven chided across the yard, still barring the door like a sphinx waiting for the right answer.

“But maaaa!” Ruby started to wiggle enough that Qrow let her down so she could run over and plead her case.

Now out of earshot, Tai lent over and whispered, “We’re putting a collar and leash in Yang’s stocking and some dog toys in Ruby’s.”

“Bet that thrills Raven.” He murmured back. She’d never been much of an animal person.

“It was her idea.” His eyebrows shot up in surprise, but before he could comment, his brother was slapping him on the shoulder, continuing on in a louder tone, “Alright, how ‘bout we get your guys’ stuff inside so y’all can settle in?”

While Raven brought Ruby and Zwei inside to keep them out of the way, the trunk was popped and the luggage pulled out. Between the three of them, they were able to juggle their bags and the box of gifts inside, the latter being dropped off next to the heavily decorated Christmas tree the moment they entered the great room. As Tai led them towards the stairs, Qrow took a peek at the archway that lead to the kitchen, and though he only caught the back of Summer’s head, he could smell the delectable scents of whatever she was preparing wafting in from here.

“We only have one guest room, so I apologize the accommodations aren’t the best.” Tai was saying after they’d set the bags inside the guest room. The words were entirely for Clover’s sake, as he never said them when Qrow came here alone. Perhaps because the room only housed one bed.

Clover was too preoccupied swooning over the window nook that overlooked the lake to notice such a trivial detail. “I think it’s perfect.”

What a dork. Qrow rolled his eyes, having to fight the smile from his face.

“So, Qrow tells me you like to fish.”

Oh god, now they were never going to shut up. While they chatted, Qrow ducked out of the room to use the bathroom. By the time he was passing by his room again, Tai and Clover were chatting about lure types, so he decided to make his way back to the ground floor, passing Zwei laying in his doggy bed by the couch, and entered into the kitchen where all the girls had collected in.

Raven was at one side, frosting sugar cookies before handing them over to Ruby who was sitting on the counter. Her job was to decorate each cookie with little chocolate chips, peppermint crunch, or cinnamon bites before setting them on the plate (and both were stealing candy pieces to munch on). Opposite them, Yang was standing on a stool to be tall enough to reach the counter, vigorously peeling through carrots before handing them off to Sumer, who chopped them into smaller pieces with the vegetable knife before adding them into a pot. The oven was on, the faint outline of a cooking dish the likely culprit of what he’d gotten a whiff of coming inside.

“Mmmm, I don’t even know where to start.” Qrow said more to announce his presence than anything.

“There you are, you scoundrel! Was beginning to think you weren’t gonna come say hello.” Summer chastised as she walked over to him, Irish accent thick as ever.

He knelt down to accept his cheek kisses. “Thought you woulda appreciated me not immediately invading your kitchen for once.” Tiny, strong arms found their way around his waist. He dropped his hand into golden curls, smiling down at his other niece. “Hey there firecracker.”

She pressed her chin into his ribs, giving him a stern stare that made her look so much like his sister. “I’m making dinner tonight, so you better like it!”

“I’m sure with you behind the helm, it’ll be wonderful.” He snorted. A threat as a greeting hadn’t been his expectation.

She was grinning now, giving one more, “You better!” before hurrying back to her station.

“She’s really excited.” Summer explained, following her. As he poured himself a glass of sweet tea from the pitcher sitting on the island, she asked, “So where’s yer lad? I was hoping to get a good gander at him.”

He leant back against the counter next to his sis as he replied, “Tai got him talking about fishing, so he’s never coming down.”

They were probably sharing different casting methods right now. Not that he could complain – he figured Clover would hit it off with Tai immediately. Similar hobbies aside, they both had easy-going, friendly personalities which tended to blend well with small talk. Knowing he’d also managed to get his shy niece to talk to him so freely was also a bit of a blessing.

But the real problem was the woman currently bumping her shoulder against his. “Fair warning, Tai’s been filling his pocketbook with every fish pun he can think of.”

“And you let him?” He squawked, utterly scandalized.

She replied, completely straight-faced, “They’re reel good.”

Qrow blinked. Blinked again. Deadpanned, “I’m not related to you anymore.”

“Good, get out.”

They glared at one another, the seconds ticking by.

Raven broke first, turning away to hide her smile.

“Hah, I win!” He took a cookie as his trophy.

“Mommy, they’re being dumb again.” He heard Yang murmur.

“Yeah, they’re a buncha dopes.” Though it was meant to be an insult, Summer’s tone was nothing but endearing.

Before Qrow could think of an appropriate comeback, the sound of heavy steps on the stairs and chatter drew attention towards the entryway.

“Then it just smacked me right in the face! I was so shocked it just fell right out of my hands and back in the water.” Tai was saying.

“Well that’s one way to lose a fish.” Clover laughed heartily.

As they entered the room, it was hard to miss the blond’s smirk as he replied, “It’s alright, I’m quite good at catching other types.”

“And dear, what other types are those?” Raven spoke up.

He winked her way. “Types like you babe.”

She looked unimpressed, but Summer started to giggle. “I mean, if you like swordfish.”

“Ut-! Excuse you! I’m a shark.”

Qrow snorted. “A goblin shark, maybe.”

“Careful, you’re in stabbing distance.”

He shifted away, just in case.

Tai was chuckling, nodding to her. “Clover, the shark is my lovely wife Raven and our daughter Ruby.” He waved to the other side of the room. “And this is my other lovely wife, Summer and our daughter Yang.”

“I’m the cook today!” Yang said proudly, brandishing a tiny knife at him. “You better like dinner!”

“Honey, don’t point with the knife. That’s rude.” Summer chastised.

“Oh, sorry.” She set it down to point with a carrot instead. “Now you better like dinner.”

To his credit, Clover managed not to laugh, only saluting her. “Yes ma’am. Thank you for your hard work.”

“Good. If you don’t lie about it, then I like you.” Yang decided before turning back to her work.

Her father pat her on the head as he walked by. “Clover would you like anything? Water? Sweet tea?”

“Water would be wonderful, thank you.” He replied, taking the opportunity to slip over to Qrow’s side.

“So, you’re an Irish lad?” Summer asked.

Qrow winced. He was afraid that would be the first thing she’d dig at. The other woman had been born and raised in Ireland, and had initially only come to the states to study Veterinarian work on an apprenticeship at Cornell Uni. She had had plans to return to her homeland – until she met Raven and Tai, both of whom were also studying at Cornell under a scholarship.

The rest of that incredible and confusing love story Qrow was told through long distance telephone calls while take his own, more modest level courses at UNC Wilmington. He remembered how certain he had been that the two were just pulling his leg the entire time until he actually had Summer standing right in front of him, rather than the ghost of a person his sibling and best friend were feeding him.

He’d liked her immediately. She was funny, quick-witted and extremely compassionate, especially towards animals (“Ravens especially,” she always joked). She was easy to get along with, even if she herself could be a bit meek – but touch anything about her culture with even a hint of pretentious air and a bit of her own brashness would come out as she happily kicked someone down a few pegs.

While trepidation settled in his gut, as inconspicuously as possible, he slid his hand into Clover’s, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

His boyfriend didn’t seem to share his worry, lips only quirking upwards, squeezing his hand back as he answered, “Yeah, on my mom’s side.”

“Did she name you for the shamrock or for the four-leaf clover?”

“The four-leaf.” He took the glass of water as Tai handed it to him, continuing, “I was uh, apparently not expected to make it to term, so my parents always considered me a ‘lucky’ birth. My mother thought naming me Clover was perfect because of that and her heritage. She didn’t know there was a difference. My pa actually told me it started this whole big feud between her and her grandparents because it had offended them so much.”

As they continued to converse, Qrow exhaled softly.

Any air left whooshed out of him as fifty pounds of child thumped against his back. “Uncle Qrooow, this is boring. Can we go play video games?”

“Uh,” He hesitated. He’d never really been one to deny his youngest niece, but he couldn’t just leave his boyfriend to the wolves, so to speak.

A thumb brushed along his knuckles. Clover was still preoccupied by whatever Summer was saying, but he gave him a side-eye and a small smile, before letting his hand go.

Taking that sign, Qrow conceded. “Alright kiddo, jump on.”

“Yes!” She clung to him as he hitched her onto his back and carried her out to the living room, where he let her pick the game.

They jumped around as bubble-blowing dragons until dinner.

~

Qrow liked to think of his vacation mornings as perfectly lazy.

He would roll out of bed maybe at 8 or 9, spend the next twenty minutes milling about sleepily as he took care of his bathroom routine and shuffled through what clothes he wanted to wear. He had it down to an art, wherein he was usually the last to make it downstairs and sometimes no one would see him until after 10. He’d probably benefit from setting at least one alarm so he could enjoy an extra few hours with his family every day – but why fix what wasn’t broken?

Problem was, when his bedmate was 90% of the reason he was staying warm at night and said bedmate was a ridiculously early riser, it was hard to stay asleep longer than twenty minutes past when he’d vacate the space.

So, Qrow found himself shuffling into the kitchen a little after 7, the smell of brewing coffee guiding him to the pot. Everyone else was bound to be awake soon, but for now the only other person in the room was his sister.

“Morning.” She greeted.

“G’mornin’.” He returned, fetching down a mug. “Where’s Clover?”

Raven inclined her head towards the window. “On the dock, somehow not freezing to death.”

He glanced out, seeing the dark outline of his boyfriend sitting right at the edge of the pier, waiting patiently for the sun to rise. He hadn’t even bothered to put on any additional layers, still in the tank top and shorts he’d gone to bed in.

Qrow had a feeling this would be the running theme for the week. With anyone else, he probably would have found it annoying; instead, all he felt was fondness.

The microwave beeping had his eyes pulling away, watching as his sister took out a mug of steaming water. As she steeped her tea, she said, “He’s a real interesting one.”

“Is that a lead in to how you’re about to tell me everything wrong with him?”

“Hmm, well,” She stretched out the word like a car engine getting ready to gun it down the street. “He’s got really stupid hair.”

Here we go. Qrow sighed. Turned away to pour his coffee as he waited.

And waited.

And…

…

He looked up from the cutlery drawer to her, seeing her watching him with unadulterated amusement. “Wait, that’s it?”

She shrugged. “That’s it.”

“You actually like him?”

“No.” She clipped easily. “He’s a bit too much of a model boy scout type and I think that’s annoying. But, I like the you that you are when you’re with him.”

He went back to his silverware search. “Uh, meaning?”

Raven rolled her eyes. “You’re happier with him, stupid.”

“Hold up.” Qrow waved a spoon in the air, “I’m calling bullshit on that one. I was happy with my other partners before this.”

“You also weren’t any less happy without them. It’s, just different, okay?” She ran a hand through her hair, “Tch, you know I’m not any good at this.”

For as little as his sister was saying though, he could hear the paragraphs hidden in between. She’d been with him his whole life; had seen every stupid decision he’d ever made. Like how he was convinced that Sienna was the love of his life when they were only seventeen and when she ultimately dumped him, he acted like his entire life was over. Or at twenty-one, when he had been so convinced that Roman was The One, he asked him to marry him only six months into their relationship – only to find out the guy had a criminal record. Then there were disasters, like Kimi.  Broken trusts, like Oz. Incompatibilities, like Winter, Robyn, Tukson.

There were joys in all of them – but looking back, he didn’t regret the breaks either.

“Nah, I get it.” Qrow stirred in the sugar. “Guess I’ve had pretty shit luck when it comes to relationships, huh?”

“It all went to the better twin.” She joked back, holding up her tea to cheer herself before taking a sip.

“Oh, mom and dad found a long-lost triplet?”

He only laughed when she smacked his arm, ducking away before she could potentially continue her assault, taking his coffee with him. Her call of “Jerk!” followed him as he slipped out the back door. They may have found it unbearable at times to live with each other, but it was comforting to know she still looked out for him. He would thank her later.

For now though, he walked the length of the porch, following the stone path that gave way to wood and finally ended at Clover.

“Didn’t expect to see you up so early.” He greeted as Qrow sat down beside him.

He took a sip of the coffee before setting the mug down on the post next to him. “Well, my space heater left, so I came looking for it.”

“Sorry about that.” Clover wound an arm across his shoulders, drawing him in. “Better?”

He looked out across the lake, where the water was reflecting the colors of the lightening sky. Took in the horizon breathing in a new day, welcoming them to experience it together.

Qrow melted against the other, sincerely vowing, “It’s perfect.”

[ivebeensunburnt]

Planets as Boys

The sun (let's name him Elio, its a name derived from the name Helios who is a sun titan in Greek myths)

You met him in winter

While sledding

You crashed into him while he was walking up the hill and he ended up sitting on your lap for the rest of the ride down

'Usually, I like to take a girl out to dinner before sitting on her lap but this is fine I guess. Can I at least get your number'

'I don't even know your name'

'It's Elio, and I don't know yours either but you're the one who got me to sit on your lap'

'You were in the way!'

'I was walking on the path, you were not sledding in the right place'

'Yes, I was!'

'Stop getting so riled up sunshine, I'm just messing with you'

'Fine. You can have my number. But I expect you not to be in the way of my sled next time.'

'Maybe next time you can sit on my lap ;)'

'Omg, I think I want my number back'

'Don't lie sunshine, you think I'm hot'

'I think you're a little warm'

'I can't tell if that's a compliment or not'

'It's not'

'Bummer. I think you're pretty cute sunshine'

His flirting never fails to make you blush 

Of course, you end up excepting his offer to go on a date

And before long you're dating

As you start to spend a lot of time with him you start to tan a bit

It's not very noticeable at first

But after hanging out with him for a couple weeks you have a light tan

'Wtf? I don't even go outside'

You'd ask him about it and he'd just laugh

'Oops'

Wherever he kisses you freckles show up (haha get it? Sunkissed)

It's how your friends find out you guys are dating

'So... You and Elio?'

'Wdym'

'Sis you have freckles everywhere'

'I-' *blush*

At least they can't see where else he leaves freckles

His hair is bleach white blonde

Not even because he dyes it

Just naturally

Very tan

Golden skin that is so, so pretty

CLEAR SKIN

Like how tf does he keep it that clear

So many freckles on this boy

Mostly on his face and arms but a few everywhere else

Would refuse to leave the house if it was raining at all

Even just sprinkling

He hates it.

Amber eyes that are so warm and inviting

They're just so pretty

Heat machine

You know how boys always manage to be warm

Like that but x50

You're always asking if he feels like he has a fever

'No I'm just that hot ;)'

'Omg pls shut up'

You would try to steal his hoodies but he doesn't have any

And you're like

'Elio... Where tf are your hoodies?'

'.... I don't have any'

'I can't believe you'

Gives the best fucking hugs anyone could ask for

Like 100/10

And is always open to giving them too

'Elio i want a hug'

'OMG YASSS COME HERE BABY'

Snuggles are the best with him

An absolute extrovert

Willing to go out whenever it's not raining

If he does gave to go out while its raining you know he'll have bright yellow rain boots

And a yellow poncho

With a Pikachu umbrella

Is he 5?

Probably.

A bit full of himself

'I'm so hot babe'

'Ooo my hair looks fabbb today'

'I look like a GoDdeSs'

Like the world revolves around him

Great leader (when he's not being immature)

Takes charge

Being in a group project with him would be so great

Especially if he's interested in the topic

A perfectionist when it comes to work or grades

Acts like he doesn't care about it but you can tell he does

As a boyfriend he would always want to be with you

Touching you

And kissing you

Skinship is the shit for him

Beach days are a must

Sandcastle KING

Would drag you outside just to sit in the sun when its nice outside

Which leads to you never taking your shoes off during the summer and fall months because you never know when he's gonna want to take you outside

And always having a book with you to read outside

He's always happy

Except when it's raining

Scared of thunderstorms but will hold a giant ass spider and talk to it like its a cute baby

Will also be 100% down to go bungee jumping or anything crazy like that

Never gets sunburned

One time he actually tried to but was unsuccessful

'Ok I'm gonna lay here for 3 hours and by then i better have a sunburn!'

*unconcerned* ' u do u boo'

His favorite color is yellow

He has at least 10 plain yellow shirts that he wears with everything

Converse are the only shoes he's willing to wear

With the occasional pair of vans

Is always saying he wants sunflower vans but never does

Sleeps with the lights on

Which annoys the crap out of anyone who has had to sleep in the same room as him

They just end up turning off the lights once he's asleep

Does 5ks and other runs for fun?? Like every weekend

Basically a jock

Will try every sport once

Especially likes soccer

And volley ball

And don't even get him started on sharks and minnows that is his game

Will never tell you when he's sad

If he tells you when he's sad he has got to be in love with you

Or trust you A LOT

Will make up stupid excuses like he has to go walk his turtle to escape situations that make him sad, so you won't see

When did he get a turtle?

One time you saw him crying and were shocked for a week

He still won't tell you why he was crying that day

He's one of those people who will laugh at the absolute worst times

Somebody's crying or screaming and yelling and he'll be in the corner laughing his ass off

Basically a little shit

Dumb dad jokes one minute

And dirty jokes the next

Laughs at his own jokes

His favorite nickname for you would definitely be sunshine

And you would be like????

'Babe. You👏 Are👏 Literally👏 The embodiment👏 Of the👏 Fucking sun👏'

When you first start dating he'll be so fucking sweet

Like a bag of fucking sugar

After a couple months tho?

That boy is nasty

Try to make him blush

Just try

This boy is shameless. Nothing will make him blush

He will dirty talk up a STORM

Don't even try wearing a short skirt around him because within 10 min. He'll be whispering in you ear

'Did you wear that for me?'

'I really like it on you'

'It would look a lot better on my floor tho'

Yes, he's that cheesy

Even tho he's nast af he'll still be super fucking cute with you

100% cutest couple you've ever seen

feeding each other

Sitting on his lap

PDA

Always holding hands in public

Dates at least once a week

He ways finds times for a date

Sometimes it's just coming over to snuggle

Or going to a super fancy restaurant in a suit and everything

He'll try to pay for the meal every time

But you'll be like sis no and give your credit card to the waiter before he can

He'll glare at you for a second but can't stay mad and will just end up kissing you

Oh boy,,,,,,

Kisses with him

They'd be so nice

First he would lick his lips while looking at yours

He would get really shy

'C-can I kiss you please'

'Of course'

At first he would be the sweetest softest kisser

He would put a hand on the back if your neck with his fingers tangled in the roots of you hair

He would put his other hand on your hip very softly so you would barely even be able to feel it

For the first 10-15 seconds it would be just lips, no toungue

He would like your bottom lip asking for entrance

And this is where he would lose it

When people say 'they're shoving their tongues down each other's throats' this is exactly what they mean

He would tighten his grip on your hair tugging a little

He would move his other hand from your hip to your back pulling you closer to him

He would literally not stop kissing you till you both were about suffocate and it takes you both minutes to catch you breath before you can talk again

'Jesus christ'

He would just smile at you and pull you im for a quick kiss before telling you that you are perfect

Then being a little shit like

'Almost as perfect as me'

Even tho he's your boyfriend he would also be your bestest friend

You could talk for hours with him and just goof off without trying to act perfect

for him (cuz he already thinks you are)

Since he's always warm he loves the snow

(But he doesn't like rain? Weirdo.)

Like, SO much

Especially the morning after its snowed when the snow is smooth and untouched and the morning sun makes it all sparkly and pretty

Of course he'll ruin it by throwing a snowball directly at your face

You'll fake crying like it really hurt you and he'll go from

:D to :0 in .2 seconds

'Omg sunshine. Are you ok? I'm so sorry. Omg.omg.omg. do we need to go to the hospital? I'm so sorry.'

He would almost be crying when youre like sike bitch

And throw one right back at his face

Which would lead to an all-out snowball fight that lasts for an hour before you're shivering your way back inside

Then you would snuggle up on the couch with him and watch movies till you fall asleep

[talkfastromance4]

Earthshine [1]

I’m so happy to finally be posting this. I literally spent a whole week writing this out. This is the first time I’ve written in the point of view as ‘you’ and even though it’s a universal you, I’ve become so attached to the characters. I even made a playlist that can be found here . Each part is written as different phases of the moon. This will be in 3 parts because it’s just shy of 5k words. Feedback is graciously welcomed, I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I did writing it :)

Summary: you and Ashton’s love is displayed in different scenarios under a new phase of the moon Without further ado. . . .

--------------------------------------

Earthshine: the glow caused by sunlight reflected off the earth, especially on the darker portion of a crescent moon

 Some think horoscopes and zodiacs are ridiculous and the people who believe in it are just as fickle as the celestial study. Ashton is part of the fickle party, he believes his astrological sign truly represents him. He’s very creative, adores his family and wants to start a big one of his own. Along with the creativity comes sensitivity and emotions that are felt as deep as the ocean in which his star sign is ruled by.

His emotions roll over him like a wave, one after another, each one more potent than the last. When he’s upset it’s like he’s drowning and when he’s angered the tides become relentless. Aside from feeling so deeply, Ashton is the essence of the sun.

Always smiling, always cracking jokes and making sure everyone around him is happy and having a good time. He loves those around him fiercely, he’s the protector.

He felt so strongly connected to his sign that he got the phases of the moon tattooed on his skin; he’s got both the light and dark within him.

One downfall of his star sign is that he’s a hopeless romantic. He craves to shower someone with his love but with his schedule and inability to fully trust someone makes it very difficult. Until he met you.

How you met was like the cliché way in a romantic movie. He was coming inside a coffee shop while you were exiting and lo and behold, you collided. In more ways than one. When your eyes met the stars aligned and a sense of calm washed over the both of you (even though your hot tea spilled all over him) and it was almost like fate.

Being the gentleman that he is he insisted on buying you a new drink, he simply wouldn’t take no as an answer. You and Ashton talked for four hours. You talked until you were the only ones left in the coffee shop. You talked until the baristas had to kick you out because they needed to finish their nightly duties.

You exchanged numbers under the new moon. Even though it’s not visible it signified a new beginning.

•○•○•

“I wish humans could breathe underwater,” you say as your finger traces the length of the aquarium’s glass. The actinic blue color illuminates across both of your faces, the light shimmers in waves.

“Why’s that?” Ashton chuckles giving your hand a light squeeze.

“Because. The water is my home, I’d never leave,” you shrug then let out an excited gasp as a sea turtle floats lazily by.

It’s been a few weeks since you and Ashton have first met. The chemistry between you two was unlike anything else you’ve experienced before. You both just got each other, you clicked.

“Won’t you come visit me?” he teases.

“No,” you say simply watching the turtle fade away before you turn to look up into his hazel eyes. “Cause you’d already be with me.”

His dimpled smile that you love so much makes an appearance and butterflies erupt in your stomach. He stares at you for a long while as you both continue on the pathway through the tunneled sea until suddenly he rushes you to an area that’s enclosed over a small wooden bench.

No one else is around and in the darkened blue light from the oval shaped glass, he takes your face in his warm hands and kisses you softly. His lips are gentle and familiar even though it’s your first kiss that you shared. You were kissing below the surface of the water but breathing was easy.

Your first kiss was shared on the night of a waxing crescent moon, his kiss proving the intentions of your budding relationship.

•○•○•

“I wish we could stay here forever,” Ashton murmurs into your naked shoulder.

He’s still on top of you with your bodies still slick from sweat and hearts beating erratically. The connection you shared still hung heavy in the air. You smile at his words petting his hair away from his forehead and caress his back with your other hand.

“We’ve got a little bit of forever,” you say, “until the sun comes up.”

“What am I going to do without you, love?” he smiles softly. He ghosts his lips over the pulse point on your neck which has the perfect shape of his mouth imprinted there.

“You’re going to make all your fans happy and rock your heart out with your brothers.”

“It’d be better if you were with me,” he mumbles over your collarbone.

“Mm, you know I wish I could,” you hum. You’re still stroking his hair while his lips kiss your skin.

“There’s only one solution then,” he says into your ear.

“What’s that?”

“Quit your job, pack all your things and come with me.”

You giggle into him, if only it were that simple and you voiced your thoughts to him.

“I’m only half joking,” he chuckles along with you. He removes his mouth from your skin to look at you and his eyes are shining from the twinkling lights hanging from your ceiling.

“I know. And I would love to come on tour with you but the time isn’t right right now, babe.” You cradle his face in your hands memorizing every feature. “But I’ll be right here waiting for you.”

“You sure I’m worth all that waiting? It’s nine months. We’ll be apart for how long it takes to make a person.”

“You are definitely worth the wait,” you say firmly. “I’m all in for you, Ash. Time and distance won’t change that. Of course I’ll miss you like crazy, I already do now even though you’re right here. But you are definitely worth it, you’re my sunshine.”

“You’re my moonlight.” He dips his head to yours and kisses you deeply. “When you say you’ll be right here waiting,” he says on your lips, “do you mean naked and waiting for me?”

You laugh into his mouth looping your arms around his neck to pull him closer. “If that’s how you want me,” you hum before kissing him and biting his lip.

“That’s how I always want you,” he groans.

You laugh again at his brute honesty but his fingers slip between your thighs and your laugher turns into moans. You made love for the second time that night under the first quarter moon, both light and shadow present. The decision to make the distance work was met in the middle.

•○•○•

While Ashton was shining on his own halfway around the world, you were left in the shadows a million miles away. You conversed through voicemails and delayed responses to text messages. It was hard being away from each other. You craved his touch.

The stars were aligned in your favor one night when you tried to Facetime him and he actually answered. Tears sprung in your eyes at finally seeing him and you became giddy by finally being able to talk.

“Hi handsome,” you greet.

“Hey angel,” he smiles. His dimples showed through the screen, your favorite thing in the world. “Apparently 1:00 a.m your time is when we’re both free.”

“I guess so. I miss you so much, Ash. We need to set up a schedule where we can actually talk to one another.”

“Agreed. I hate talking to you through our voicemails,” he rubs his hand over his face in frustration. “It’s so good to see you.” He shifts in his bed so his head is on the side of his pillow.

You mirror his actions and it’s like your inches away instead of miles. You’re both silent as you stare at each other but it’s a comfortable quiet, much like the time you’d be spending if you were physically together.

“I love you,” you break the silence and his smile returns.

“I love you, too, angel. So much.”

You talked for an hour more and came up with a game plan of calling each other when the time is right for both of you. You’d still text throughout the day of whatever was on your mind and at one o’clock you’d call or Facetime to discuss the texts.

You refined the minor problem under the waxing gibbous moon. The distance and different timing was a big sacrifice for your relationship but the change of habit will only make your relationship stronger.

•○•○•

“I have amazing news!” you both shout over the phone on your nightly call followed by laughter.

“You first, babe,” he chuckles.

“Remember how I told you I was in the running for a promotion at work? It was me and two others, a girl and a guy to become senior assistant for the editor?” you say in a rush.

“You got it?!” he exclaims.

“YES! My annual income will be raised 5% and I will be in charge of the platform I came from and will even have my own assistant!” You squeal and practically fall out of your bed from excitement and finally being able to share this with him.

“I’m so proud of you, y/n. I knew you’d get this promotion, you’ve earned it. When do you start as the senior assistant?”

“Next Monday. Cleo and I are going out tomorrow night for drinks to celebrate my promotion and her engagement. Oh! She and Teddy are engaged, did you see that?”

“No I didn’t, I haven’t been on any social media the last couple days. But wow, that’s awesome! Tell them congrats from me.”

“I will,” you smile completely giddy from the thrill of all the great news. “What was your amazing news?”

“We just got told earlier today that we’re nominated for four ARIA’s, the group, album, the Australian live act and for our single.”

“No way! That is amazing news! Ugh, you guys totally deserve this. I’m so proud of you, Ash. I wish we could celebrate together,” you say sadly.

“I know angel, but when tour is over I’ll have the most gorgeous date for the award show,” he says and you can hear his smile through the phone.

“I’ll be able to afford a killer dress by then.”

“So you will be my date, then?”

“Of course I will, silly.”

You continue to chat about your promotion and the excitement of the ARIA’s. What he would wear, what he would say if they actually won. The moon was high and full in the sky as you confirmed your intentions of going to the awards show.

Part 2

[roobierubyroobieruby]

The Game is On (Part 3)

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Reader (AU)

Word Count: 1,903

Warnings: cuteness, fluffy, jealousy over Steve not being your boyfriend? one or two swears (sorry Cap)

Summary: You and Steve have been together for six years, happily living life in your Brooklyn apartment. On the night of your six-year anniversary, you come home to find a folded note on the table with your name written in Steve’s scripted handwriting. Inside? Instructions to your own personal treasure hunt to find your surprise - and Steve - at the end, and you have 20 minutes to start! The game is on…

A/N: this is the third part to @bionic-buckyb‘s 5K writing challenge!! Sorry it takes so long to get these parts out! Also I apologize if this part isn’t very good - I’m writing this sick in bed (yay...)

** = flashback scene

[Part 1] [Part 2]

You pulled your phone out during your walk, careful to make sure you didn’t run into other people on the street or miss any turns, as you shot off a quick text to Steve.

- How did you manage to get the theatre owner in on your little game?

- A man has his ways dollface, so where are you off to now?

- Didn’t you design this thing so shouldn’t you know?

- Hey I’m just keeping track and making sure you’re headed in the right direction is all

- If you must know then, I’m heading to our diner where we get milkshakes every week for date night

- Maybe I’ve made this treasure hunt too easy...

- NO! I just know us well! Plus wouldn’t you rather I find you faster so you’re not stuck waiting for me for hours wherever you are?

- I’d wait for you forever if I had to doll, you’re worth it. Enjoy the milkshake and let me know when you’re on your way to the next stop. I love you xo

- I love you too xo

Shoving your phone into your coat pocket, you picked up your pace as you rounded the final corners. Date night was always an exciting time, but seeing the diner tonight, knowing what was waiting for you inside to bring you another step closer to Steve, made you feel like you were on your very first date all over again. As soon as you entered, the little bell alerting the waitresses to you, Sarah came bouncing over with a take-away cup in hand.

“Hey (Y/N), wow you look amazing! Steve left this and this for you,” she handed you the cup and pulled a note from her apron, “and just so you know, all of us girls think you two are beyond adorable. This is just too much!” She squealed, handing you the note as she bounced away.

You laughed to yourself, taking a sip of the cup and realizing he’d ordered you your favourite flavoured milkshake for you to take on the hunt. You held up the cup in thanks to the girls behind the counter as you departed out the door, wanting to be away from their prying eyes as you opened up the slip of paper.

**

You sat across from a nervous Steve in your favourite corner booth of your diner. The two of you had been coming here once a week for date night for three years now - three years tonight since it was your anniversary.

“I’m sorry we didn’t get to do anything special tonight, work has been crazy and-”

“Steve, it’s ok,” you reached across the table and grabbed his hand, hoping to ease some of his nerves, “I don’t need fancy things, I just need you. I’m happy, and if you’re happy too then we are all good.” You smiled, rubbing small circles over his thumb as his leg slowly stopped bouncing under the table.

“Of course I’m happy, I’ve never been happier! I just want to make you feel as special as what you are to me is all, I want you to feel like a queen.”

You leaned forward over the table, pulling his hand closer to you so he’d follow. You pressed a light kiss on his lips before another on the tip of his nose, “as long as I’ve got my king, then I’m a queen.”

You sat back down as he pulled your hand up to his lips, pressing a light kiss on your knuckles, “shouldn’t kings and queens live in the same castle though?”

“Well yeah, historically they do but maybe we live separately so as to rule our kingdom more efficiently?” You smirked at him as he laughed, that light sound bouncing off the booth as he shook his head, staring at the table.

“Maybe I don’t want to be efficient. Maybe I want to wake up and go to sleep with my queen right beside me, where I can hold her and kiss her and love her whenever I want to. Maybe I want my queen to live with me in my castle so I can cherish her and love her as much as she should be loved.”

His blue eyes peered up at you from under his long lashes, his leg bouncing under the table again as he nervously ran his fingers across the palm of your hand, tracing lines in your skin.

“Wait, is Steve Rogers asking me to move in with him? King Rogers wants moi to move into his castle?” Your heart quickened in your chest as you pressed your hand to it, trying to calm your heart and stop the blush spreading across your cheeks.

“King Rogers would like that very much, if Queen (Y/L/N) would have me.”

You almost jumped across the table at him, grabbing the back of his head as you crushed your lips against his.

“Queen (Y/L/N) would be stupid to say no to you, so a million times yes!” You said between kisses, feeling his hands frame the sides of your face as you pulled away.

“I love you so much (Y/N), and I will spend every day I can showing you that.”

“You are too good to me Steve, and I just hope I can make you as happy as you make me. I love you too.”

As you sat back into the booth, intertwining your hands with his, Sarah - your favourite waitress - brought over your usual milkshakes. You thanked her earnestly, sharing in the joy of your news before she jumped for joy and told you the milkshakes were on the house before running to tell the other girls behind the counter. You both shook your head, taking in long sips of your drinks before you put your head on the table and groaned,

“Oh no, what about Bucky?!”

“What about Bucky?”

“He’s going to hate me for this!”

Steve laughed at you, causing you to bolt upright and glare at him, “Bucky won’t hate you, he knows you make me happy and that’s the end of it. Why would he hate you?

“Because your bachelor pad won’t a bachelor pad anymore.” You chewed on your bottom lip, beginning to think of the lists of things you’ll have to do to begin moving.

“So? I haven’t considered my place a bachelor pad since I met you. And Bucky and I will still have our game nights together, at either our place or his, same way you and Nat will still have your girls nights at yours or ours. We will make it work, we always do.”

With that, he pressed feather light kiss to each your hands as you let out a small giggle.

“What was that giggle for?”

“You called it our place...”

“Yeah I did my queen, it’s our place.”

**

Clue #4: My best friend you are, only one of two, go see the other one, because he has the next note for you.

Well this one was easy. Time for you to go and pay a visit to Bucky.

(Steve’s POV)

The anxiety was kicking in. It had been for weeks now, but you were getting closer. Only two more stops before you got to him and it was go time. Texting you was simultaneously the one thing that could calm him down, and yet it only made him more nervous as he found out how close you were getting.

- Hey doll, how’s the milkshake?

- The best every single time, and I’m honestly amazed at how many people are in on this!

- Sarah was more than willing to help, she thought it was “goals” or something

- Well this note was easier than the last, practically spelled out that Bucky has my next note

- Have you left to see him yet?

-Yeah I’m about 10 minutes away

SHIT. Panic flooded through Steve has he ran to your bedroom door and flung it open, yelling down the hall to the lounge space.

“BUCKY! GET YOUR ASS TO YOUR PLACE NOW! SHE’S ONLY TEN MINUTES AWAY!” He shouted through the apartment as Bucky stuck his head around the hallway,

“She’s WHAT?!”

“You gotta go now, she’s going to be at yours soon! Don’t forget the note!”

Bucky raced out of the apartment you two shared as he yelled back to Steve, “the things I do for you punk!” before he leapt down the stairs and bounded out onto the street, racing you to his apartment.

- Babe, everything ok?

- Yeah, sorry doll, just got distracted is all. Let me know when you leave Bucky’s xo

- Don’t worry, I will xo

That was too close. Steve walked back through the hallway to the lounge and dining space and threw his phone onto the couch, collapsing into its cushions. He rubbed his hands up his face and through his hair, trying to calm himself down, as he looked around your apartment. 

‘Bucky didn’t do a half bad job’, he thought to himself as he stared at the photos of the two of you - each one hanging on a string from the roof as candles littered the tables and benches, casting an orange glow.

“She’s going to love it you know, you could’ve just woken up one morning and shown her the ring and she would’ve loved it. I guarantee she’s going to say yes.”

Nat stood resting against the hallway arch, staring at Steve looking frazzled on the couch.

“I hope so, there’s no one else I want to spend the rest of my life with.”

“She feels the same, don’t worry, once you see her I’m sure the nerves will just float away.”

Nat moved to sit on the couch next to Steve, patting his hand.

“You got the camera all sorted?”

“Yep, I’m ready to pretend I’m a spy and become invisible. She won’t even know I’m here and I’ll get the whole thing. I promise.”

Not only did he want you to feel special, he wanted you to have photos of this moment, so he could show you just how beautiful you were without even trying.

“Thanks Nat, for everything.”

“Don’t mention it Cap, I love her and she loves you and anyone who can treat her as wonderfully as you do is good in my books.”

“I told you not to call me Cap,” he chuckled, moving to lean forward and get up from the couch.

“Hey, blame (Y/N). Ever since she told me the story of how everyone at work calls you Captain because you always take charge, I figured it would only be fitting to remind you of that fact whenever I possibly can.”

With a smirk, she patted his arm as she moved back through to the kitchen to continue cooking dinner.

“I could’ve at least cooked the dinner!” He shouted down the hall.

“No! You are asking this woman to marry you, your brain needs to be on that job 110% so I will not have you ruining this dinner. Plus you need to keep checking in on where she’s at so we know to get ready. You’re the captain here, remember!”

He chuckled to himself as he checked his coat pocket for the millionth time, pulling out the soft velvet box and opening it to stare at the ring inside.

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