#dog is big and enthused

[britcision]

Hey fellow spoonies, partner’s mom has pulled her shoulder walking the dog a while back, had surgery for it, and still has aches

(My shoulders are about the only thing I got that do not regularly ache)

I wanna get her a heaty shoulder brace for the holidays, any recommendations? Or just ones to avoid?

[two-calicos-in-a-trenchcoat]

So I decided that once I have some money saved up im gonna start the process of acquiring a dog for real

I was considering just adopting a dog from a shelter but the more I thought about it the more I felt like I should stick to my initial plan of finding a breeder. I want a border collie. Border collies have been on my list for years. I was considering a German shepherd more recently but german shepherds tend to get pretty big which would not be super conducive to my current living situation. If it got to be bigger than chewby, chewby would not be a fan. She gets pretty nervous when she's not the biggest dog around.

A border collie puppy is more likely to be close to harleys size when its ready to come home. So ill have an easier time introducing them.

Also I need a dog that can bully me into doing things when I get stuck. I wanna go hiking more. Get back into photography. And I love chewby but shes more my dads dog and it would take a lot of work to get her to a point where she'd be comfortable going out for extended periods of time just the 2 of us. And I dont have the opportunity to work with her as much as she needs cuz of how glued she is to my dad. I want a dog I can start working on those things with from the get go.

Ive wanted a dog I could do agility with for years

I love how smart and driven border collies are.

Also I miss having a puppy. I havent had a puppy in almost 17 years.

And ive never had a dog that was 100% MINE

The problem is

Trying to find breeders i like is proving to be a lil overwhelming

Like I have an idea of what to look for in a reputable breeder.

Idk. Maybe once im like. Actually READY for a dog I'll feel less overwhelmed. Theres too many unknowns rn.

[dilf-issues]

Big Bad Wolf & Little Lamb: Lesson 1. (C.M)

Synopsis: You met Maeve, your best friend, in College and over the years you have become two peas in a pod. Maeve decided to invite you back to her hometown in Ireland for the summer break and that’s where you met her dad, Cillian.

Warnings: EXPLICIT CONTENT AHEAD. Age Gap, (all legal of age), Corruption kink, Innocent! reader, Cillian’s massive tease, Sex, Oral Sex, Fingering, Cillian teaches the reader EVERYTHING. Virgin! Reader, inexperienced! Reader

Chapter warnings: sexual corruption, innocent reader, age gap, dom/sub, masturbation, voyeurism, sudden panty sniffing?

Disclaimer: THIS IS FICTION AND IT IS NOT REAL LIFE.

A/N: Cillian looks like Lenny Miller in this fic!

.

After months of planning, Maeve finally convinced me to come visit her countryside hometown during the summer break. As I stepped off the plane, the fresh Irish air filled my lungs, and the friendly smiles of the folks at the airport greeted me. Maeve was waiting for me outside, and she looked more radiant than ever in the warm Irish sunshine.

"You made it!" she exclaimed, throwing her arms around me in a tight, familiar hug. I laughed, returning the embrace, and then we picked up my bags and made our way towards her car. As we drove out of the airport, the familiar countryside views and winding roads brought a sense of tranquility and anticipation for the adventure ahead.

Maeve chatted excitedly about all the things she wanted to show me – the breathtaking coastlines, charming villages, local festivals and hidden gems. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and I couldn't help but feel a thrill of anticipation for the adventures ahead.

As we drove, Maeve filled me in on her family situation. "You'll love my dad," she enthused. "His name's Cillian – he's a bit of a character, but he's a total softie at heart. My parents are divorced, so it's just the two of us."

“Is he a scary person?” I asked quietly. I don’t deal with strangers too well, and I am not exactly a friendly person. Not because I don’t want to, it is because I am socially anxious. When me and Maeve first met, she was the one who came up to me to pair for a group assignment. “I don’t want to bother him, that’s all”

Maeve chuckled, noticing the slight hint of trepidation on my face. "Don't worry," she said. "My dad's a sweetheart, I promise. He might seem intimidating at first – he's a big, well not really in height but in size, burly Irishman – but he's the gentlest person you'll ever meet."

“I hope he likes me, so we can stay friends” Maeve suddenly pinched my cheeks as I flushed at the gesture.

“Why are you such a cutie, Y/N!”

“I’m not!”

"Oh, he'll love you," Maeve reassured me, patting my knee. "He's always excited to meet my friends. Just be yourself, and you'll win him over in no time."

As we approached Maeve's home, I could feel my heart hammering in my chest. Meeting a friend's parent was always a nerve-wracking experience, and the fact that it was Maeve's dad – a man she clearly loved and respected – made it all the more intimidating.

“Why do I feel like I’m meeting your dad to have his permission to marry you” Maeve burst out laughing as she nodded in agreement. There was really nothing to be afraid off, but since I was a generally anxious, I couldn’t help it.

Maeve must have sensed my nerves because she squeezed my hand reassuringly. "You got this," she murmured, as we walked up the cobblestone pathway towards the front door.

Taking a deep breath, I pushed open the door and stepped into the cozy, welcoming home of Maeve's childhood. The sound of a friendly dog barking greeted us from the other room, and a moment later, an imposing figure strode into the hallway.

As Cillian stepped into the hallway to greet us, I couldn't help but internally gasp at his sheer presence. He was beautiful, with broad shoulders and a rugged, masculine air about him. His eyes were a light, piercing blue, and his dark hair was speckled with flecks of silver.

"Hello there, you must be Y/N," He said, his voice deep and gravelly. He smiled warmly, and I noticed the lines at the corners of his eyes, hinting at years of laughter and experience. “Maeve told me a lot about you, I’m pleased to have you here, love. Make yourself at home”

I felt shivers ran down my spine the minute I heard him talk, his voice was deep and smooth just like how you would feel drinking an expensive espresso if that’s how I could describe it. It’s a stupid comparison to say the least, but it is true.

I couldn’t even meet his eyes to greet him back, but I didn’t want to seem rude so I quickly glanced at him and for some reason bowed slightly, as I quietly replied, “Nice to meet you, Sir”

Cillian chuckled at my timid response, the sound rumbling deep in his chest like distant thunder. "No need to be nervous, lassie," he said, his accent thick and lilting. "I don't bite."

Maeve laughed as she gently nudged me, I stayed quiet still, “Sorry dad, she’s generally like this”

“It’s alright” I heard him respond. I didn’t know how to describe it but someone I can feel his gaze burning holes into me, as if he was studying me from the top of my head until the bottoms of my feet, “Well, why don’t both of you settle in. Maeve, get the darling settled into the guest bedroom, will you”

Maeve excitedly pulls me upstairs, as I followed her. However, I felt like I needed to take a last glance at Cillian and when I looked back,

He was already looking right at me.

My heart pounded in my chest as I quickly averted my gaze from him, running along with Maeve. Cillian on the other hand, I couldn’t read his expression. He wasn’t smiling, nor did he looked angry. He just stared at me with this look on his face that I couldn’t exactly describe.

“How old is your dad?” I asked, curious of his age since his appearance looks quite youthful for his age.

“He is 47, why?” Maeve replied absentmindedly, helping me unpacked all of my clothes and putting them in the closet.

“Nothing, I’m just curious” I muttered, as I joined her.

Maeve suddenly stopped what she was doing, “You don’t have a crush on my dad now, do you?” She pointed out, accusingly.

My eyes widened as I violently shook my head, “No! What are you talking about?!”

“Okay good, I trust you” I raised my brows at her, “It’s just that most of my friends fancies him, that’s all. The most disgusting thing is they keep trying to make advances towards my dad. I don’t know what they see in him, ugh” Maeve cringed as her whole body shook as if she was shuddering.

“N-No, you know I would never do that to you” In someways, saying that seemed wrong.

“I know. Out of all my friends you are the only ‘good’ ones and I’m pretty sure you won’t try to fuck my dad”

“That’s crazy, Maeve. Did any of your friends tried to do that?”

“Trust me, most of them do. But whenever they do, my dad just tells me to never invite them over again” I nodded, not replying anything to her story.

Of course, I wouldn’t do that to Maeve. Hell, I wouldn’t even touch any men with a ten-foot pole. Not that I’ve had anyone taking their interest in me, I was mostly too focused on my studies to even notice. All my life, it had always been about studying and succeeding and it wasn’t even because of peer pressure from my family, it’s just because I really enjoyed it.

So even if somebody liked me, I wouldn’t want to do anything with it.

.

After a few hours of catching up, the house grew quiet as night fell outside. I laid in bed for a while, but eventually, my thirst got the better of me. Quietly, I got up and crept downstairs, not wanting to wake anyone.

The house was silent as I padded down the stairs and into the kitchen, flicking on the light.

As I poured myself a glass of water, I heard a faint shuffling sound from another room. Curiosity getting the better of me, I turned to see a dim light coming from the living room. Peering through the door, I saw Cillian sitting in an armchair, nursing a glass of whiskey.

He looked up, seeing me standing in the doorway. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "Having trouble sleeping?" he asked, his voice a soft rumble in the quiet room.

I blushed, feeling a little embarrassed at being caught. "Just got thirsty," I said, holding up my water glass sheepishly.

I was just about to turn and go back upstairs, but Cillian's voice halted me. "Come sit for a spell," he said, gesturing to the armchair opposite his. "It's lonely drinking alone."

I wanted to reject his offer but it would have seemed rude and I didn’t want to make that impression of being Maeve’s best friend.

I hesitated for a moment, feeling a mix of shyness and curiosity. Finally, I padded into the room, settling into the armchair across from Cillian. The light from the side lamp cast a warm glow on his features, making them look even more rugged and handsome.

Cillian took a slow sip of his whiskey, studying me from across the room. "So, Y/N, tell me about yourself," he said, leaning back in his chair. His gaze was intense, but not unkind.

“Um... There’s not really much to talk about... I’m not an interesting person” For some reason, speaking to him made my voice slower, as if I was scared of him. But I wasn’t, I was merely nervous about his presence.

“I think you are... Maeve told me you’re a great student” Cillian imposed, “She told me about how good you are in school”

My eyes widened slightly, “So basically Maeve told you I’m a nerd?” I groaned quietly, there was a small part of me that wanted him to think I was cool which was pathetic.

Cillian chuckled, shaking his head, “I’m not sure being a nerd is a bad thing, love. I think it’s great” He smirked.

There it is again, the pet names. The pet names made me feel butterflies in my tummy like a stupid school girl who has a crush on their teacher.

“It just means you are dedicated to your studies and I admire that, I’m glad Maeve became friends with someone like you” I muttered a silent ‘thanks’ at his statement but I didn't really know what to say afterward. There was a deafening silence between the two of us, I just sat in front of him quietly as I kept drinking my water. I was looking at the fireplace as if it were the most interesting thing in the world. However, the hairs on the back of my neck kept standing up because I knew Cillian was staring at me intently, his gaze never breaking from my figure.

There he goes again, looking at me as if he was studying me.

“Are you scared of me, darling?” Cillian broke the silence, making you jump slightly when you heard his voice. “You won’t even look me in the eyes”

I blushed heavily, caught off guard by his direct question. I had been trying to avoid looking directly at him, feeling intimidated by his intense gaze. I stammered a bit before finally meeting his eyes.

"I'm sorry," I said, my voice sounding small in the quiet room. "I don't mean to be rude, it's just... you're kind of intimidating."

“Am I, now?” I nodded in response, still not looking at him. “Look at me while you are talking to me before I make you”

I felt a shiver run down my spine at the change in his tone. I looked up to meet his gaze, my heart beat quickening. His eyes seemed to pierce through me, their deep blue hue holding me captive.

“There you go, darlin’,” Cillian said, his voice softer now. “It’s not so hard, is it?” He took another sip of his whiskey, studying me over the rim of his glass.

“No,” I muttered, unable to look away from his piercing gaze. “It’s just...you’re so intense." My voice was barely above a whisper.

Cillian hummed, “You know, the previous girls Maeve brought home they weren’t so scared of me”

I blinked, surprised by his comment. "They weren't?" I asked, feeling a pang of self-consciousness. "Is it a bad thing that I am slightly intimidated by you?”

“No...” For some reason, Cillian had stood up from his armchair, walking towards me with the whiskey glass still in his hands. Cillian walked over to the empty side of the sofa I was sitting in and took a seat. With every step he took, I could feel my heart beating faster and faster.

I couldn't help but feel a flutter of nervousness as he approached me, his large form seeming even more imposing in the intimate space of the living room. He settled in beside me on the sofa, his thigh mere inches from mine.

I could feel his warmth radiating from his body, and the scent of his cologne filled my senses. I tried to remain calm, taking slow, deep breaths to steady my racing heart.

“Every time she brought them over, I felt like throwing them out. It seems like their parents don’t teach them...” He paused before taking a sip of his whiskey, “...Manners”

I felt a lump form in my throat, feeling a mix of shame and fear. I knew I hadn't been very good at hiding my timid behavior, and now it seemed like I was being called out for it.

"I...I'm sorry," I mumbled, still unable to tear my gaze away from his intense eyes. "I'll try to be better."

“Such a good girl, aren’t you?” He muttered, my face burned even hotter at his words. I was used to being called ‘good’ by my parents or my teachers, but coming from Cillian’s mouth, it sounded different, deeper, and more intimate.

I fidgeted slightly under his gaze, feeling both flustered and strangely drawn to him.

"Thanks..." I murmured, not quite sure how to respond. I took a sip of my forgotten water, trying to hide my shaky hands. The silence stretched out between us, and I could feel Cillian’s gaze still on me, studying me intently.

"You're different from the other girls Maeve brought home," he said suddenly, his voice seeming to echo through the quiet room. "I can see it in your eyes, you've got a hint of...timidity."

I felt embarrassed at his accurate observation, but there was something else in his tone that made me shiver. Was it mockery, or was there a hint of something different? I couldn't quite tell.

I nodded slowly, not trusting myself to speak. I could feel his gaze on me, like a physical weight against my skin. I fidgeted with the hem of my t-shirt, feeling strangely out of sorts.

"There's nothing wrong with a little bit of timidity," he said, his voice a low rumble. “But a girl like you...you'll need someone to bring you out of your shell, teach you how to be brave.”

“What do you mean by that Sir?” I suddenly got curious. Cillian took a deep breath, realizing how innocent I was.

‘How can you not know what he was trying to do?’ He thought to himself.

“Call me Cillian for now my love, save the honorifics somewhere else, yeah?” Cillian was hinting at me but of course, I didn’t know the context of his words. “I’m sure you can call me, Sir... Sometime in the future”

“What do you mean?” I repeated the same question again, it seemed like Cillian was speaking words with double meanings that I could just not understand.

“If you keep calling me that, I might do something that I’ve been dying to do since you walked into my house, pet”

I felt my cheeks flush at his words. I had never called anyone 'Sir' before, but something in the way Cillian said it made me shiver. I felt torn between my natural nervous nature and a strange, unexpected curiosity at the thought of submitting to him.

“O-Okay, I’m sorry Cillian...”

“How are you such a good girl, hmm? You listen to everything I say”

I felt a flutter of flattery at his words, and a small part of me liked the way ‘good girl’ sounded coming from his mouth.

"I try to be... respectful," I mumbled, feeling a bit self-conscious. "It's how my parents raised me, I guess."

Cillian chuckled softly, the sound sending a shiver down my spine. "Your parents raised you well," he said, his eyes never leaving me. "They taught you how to listen, how to behave. But have they ever taught you how to be disobedient?"

“N-No... I never had to”

Cillian hummed in acknowledgement, the corners of his lips twitching into a small smirk. "That's what I thought," he murmured, his voice low and gravelly. "You've always done what you're told, haven't you, darlin'? Never questioned it, not even for a second?"

I nodded, feeling a bit bashful under his intense gaze. "I...I guess so..." I mumbled, fidgeting with my fingers. "I don't like making waves. It's just...easier to follow the rules, you know?"

Cillian chuckled, the sound sending a shiver down my spine once again. "You're a rule-follower," he said, his tone almost amused. "You always do what you're told, never rock the boat, yeah? But deep down, darlin', don't you ever wonder what it would be like to be a little... mischievous?"

As he said that, I noticed he sat closer and closer to me. His arms rested on the back of the sofa and I felt myself getting smaller. I gripped the glass in my hands tightly as I decided to set it on the coffee table before I actually break it.

I felt myself becoming increasingly aware of my own small, trembling form. It was like I was being swallowed up by Cillian's presence, his large frame dominating the space between us. I fidgeted with the hem of my t-shirt, trying to keep my hands from shaking too visibly.

“I-I don’t know... I’ve never had the thought of it I guess...” I responded as he smirked.

“Tell me now, do you have a boyfriend?”

“No, I’ve never had one” I felt my heart skip a beat at his question. It was such a personal, direct question, and coming from Cillian's mouth, it felt oddly intimate. I blushed heavily and shook my head, feeling a mix of shyness and... something else I couldn't quite identify.

"No boyfriend, huh?" he murmured, his voice a low rumble. "A pretty thing like you, I'm surprised." He shifted slightly, his body moving even closer to mine on the sofa, “That’s good”

Cillian’s hand suddenly went up to my neck as he brushed over the loose strand of hair that fell on my shoulder, his fingers lingered on my skin as it tingled and sent shivers down my spine.

“C-Cillian?” I gasped as his hand brushed against my neck, my skin tingling at his touch. His fingers lingered on my bare skin, igniting a strange sensation that sent shivers down my spine. I suddenly felt very conscious of our proximity, his body so close to mine on the sofa.

“Have you ever touched your pussy, sweetheart?” At that moment, my heart dropped at the sudden vulgarity that he had. It was such a crude word, crass, anything to describe how bad it sounded coming out of his mouth. I was speechless and I couldn’t even focus on what to say since Cillian's hand still lingered on my neck as he leaned closer, his voice dropping to a low, gravelly whisper. “You like that, darlin’?” he murmured, his breath hot against my ear. “Feel that... shiver running down your spine? Your skin’s already got goosebumps, yeah? I can see them. All over your neck, your arms…even your chest”

It was a feeling I had never felt before in my life. Something coiling deep in my gut as I felt myself clenching my thighs due to my... Private parts... Pulsating, at his words, his voice, everything about him.

Cillian looked down as he scoffed, noticing how my thighs kept clenching, his hands lowered down to my thighs as he tried keeping them apart. I did nothing to stop him.

Deep down, I knew how wrong it was for my best friend’s father to be touching me like this. But I couldn’t help it, I felt scared and maybe... Maybe I liked it. But I was scared of what he was going to do if I imposed, we were already in too deep and I felt like there’s nothing I can do.

However, there is. I could’ve stopped it... I just didn’t want to.

“Answer my question and be a good girl. Have you ever touched your pretty little pussy, darling?” I whimpered silently as his fingers began to roam closer to my inner thighs. I clamped his hand after feeling an unfamiliar gush of wetness flowing out of my core, “Keep your fucking legs open, alright?”

Cillian growled and I immediately spread my legs wider than before, “That’s a good girl” His voice turned soft once again. “Now, what did I ask you?”

“I’ve never touched myself... Down there, before...” I closed my eyes, breathing heavily as I felt like the feeling in my core was starting to become more and more painful.

Cillian hummed deeply, his fingers growing dangerously closer and closer to my pussy, and the next thing I knew, his hands completely touched my pussy over my shorts. Instinctively, I grabbed his wrist to stop him.

“What if Maeve finds out?”

“She sleeps like a log, the world could be ending and she won’t even wake up” Cillian muttered, pulling my hand off of his wrist, “I won’t tell if you won’t... I know how much of a good girl you are and you promise me you would keep those pretty little mouths shut?”

I simply nodded. I don’t know what possessed me to be so obedient to whatever was happening. Normally, I would have run away catching the next flight home, and never returned. However, Cillian was making me desperate, desperate to know what was going to happen next.

“I’m going to take off these cute shorts, alright?” I nodded once again, listening to everything he said as if I was under a spell. He took off my shorts as he pushed my legs apart. He was greeted with a sight, so wet, my underwear was soaked and I didn’t even realize it, “Pretty little thing...”

His index finger softly tapped the pulsating tiny bump, as I jolted in his grasp. I whimpered, raising my hips, asking for more.

“Such a fucking desperate slut” He groaned as he continued to rub circles on my clit, at this point I was writhing underneath him, my underwear getting wetter and wetter by the second. I would usually be offended if someone had called me such a degrading name but coming from him, it only made me want more, “Lean on me”

Cillian had instructed me to lean on his chest, my back close to him as he had his arms around me.

“I’m gonna teach you something, baby” I blushed at the new pet name he came up with, “I’m gonna teach you to touch yourself and I want to see you do it”

“O-Okay...” Cillian took my right hand and placed it on my sopping cunt, he pointed out my index finger as he slowly starts to rub circles on my clit. I whimpered almost too loudly as my left hand immediately covered my mouth. “C-Cillian! It feels nice!”

“I know, pet... Just keep doing it yeah, you’re gonna feel better once you cum” He encouraged, his eyes never leaving my writhing figure above him. I could feel something hard poking at the low of my back, it was hot and throbbing. “Fuck, so fucking pretty. The prettiest I have ever seen”

I was too focused on touching myself, drowning myself in the sensation to notice Cillian had my underwear in his left hand, burying his nose in the center as he took in the sweet and musky scent, his tongue darting out to taste the juice that previously leaked out to the material.

“Put a finger in and ram it inside, the faster you do it the better it feels” Cillian demanded, as if he was getting impatient, he took my finger once again directed it to my entrance, and shoved it in.

I was no longer whimpering, I was now moaning so loud I didn’t even care anymore. Cillian didn’t give me time to adjust, he just completely rammed it in and out at a fast pace that I couldn’t even catch up, he was doing it all on his own but with my own fingers.

“C-Cillian! I feel funny, please! Please, stop! I feel like I’m going to pee!” Cillian scoffed at the statement, he knew I was close to cumming but I didn’t know that. Instead, he taunted me, going even faster if it was even possible. He then placed his left hand on my lower tummy and pressed down hard. “No! No! No! Stop!”

“Cum. Fucking cum right now!” As if on queue, I cummed all over his hands, liquid gushing out of my hole rapidly as I cried out, the feeling of my first orgasm overwhelming me. Something I have never felt before. My whole body shook and twitched violently above him as I cried out, feeling tears of pleasure well up in my eyes. “That’s a good fucking girl, such a good girl for me...”

On my lower behind I felt a wet spot, indicating Cillian had also come undone in his pants. Cillian was as shocked as you because no woman could make him cum without touching him.

“You’re going to be the death of me” Cillian cursed as his fingers dipped into your entrance and I jolted in shock and overstimulation. His fingers went up to his mouth as he sucked all of the juices seeping out of my throbbing cunt, “Fucking delicious”

“C-Cillian... I can’t walk...” He laughed deeply, as he swiftly carried me and stood up from the couch.

“I’ll get my princess nice and clean, yeah?”

As he walked up towards my guest bedroom, carrying me without a problem, I could feel my thighs shaking as an aftermath.

“Cillian, are you gonna do those things to me again?” I stared at him with watery eyes, all fucked out from before, hopefully asking him.

“I’m gonna do more than that, sweetheart” Cillian paused as he opened the bedroom door, he placed me on top of the bed as hovered over my body, “I’m gonna fucking ruin you”

[eowynstwin]

GhostReaderSoap:

Two jacked boyfriends=you will get scooped at the funniest moments. Standing in front of a shelf they want access to? Scooped. Trying to start an argument? Scooped. You weigh nothing. You’re a bunch of grapes. Yes, even you. They know how to lift with their knees.

Soap is likely closer to you in size so his clothes are the ones you steal most often. Ghost isn’t miffed about it, no he isn’t, pet, don’t be daft. He wasn’t daydreaming about watching you sleep in his shirt. Don’t be ridiculous.

A lot of two-timing jokes, mostly made by Soap, but Ghost will play along. “What do you MEAN you have a boyfriend?” he’ll ask you, with Ghost standing right there. Ghost, immediately choosing violence, “As if you could fuck them better than I could.”

Soap is the designated pastry chef of the polycule. He can be caught in gray sweat pants and a tight white tank top, flour coating his forearms, kneading bread dough at stupid hours in the morning. You and Ghost have to race each other to suck him off, because Johnny baking is peak Johnny.

Johnny is also the cuddliest. If he catches you or Ghost on the couch he will belly flop on top of either of you and bury his face right between the titties.

Two big boys means soft snuggly sleeping arrangements, right? WRONG. It’s a fucking furnace between them. Ghost is the designated middle sleeper until winter, because Soap absolutely runs the hottest.

If you ever had any reason to be afraid of going out drinking, you don’t once you’re with them. You have double scary dog privilege in their company, and it doesn’t go away when they’re deployed. If you frequent the same pubs while they’re gone, the other regulars know not to fuck with you if they value their lives—and genitals—intact and unharmed.

Having two military partners has other benefits. You can trust them to be as keen to keep a tidy home as you are.

Soap is the one most eager to decorate when the three of you move in together. Ghost is…not enthused. Some part of him is always ready to burn home down if he has to. He’ll indulge you and Soap, though.

Another benefit to being with the both of them is that you’re alone a bit less than you otherwise might be with a SpecOp partner. Their deployments don’t always intersect, although it does happen pretty often.

It’s Soap’s idea to write you letters only to be opened after they’ve left. Ghost isn’t good at it, but his notes can always be found with Soap’s. They’re simple, short—it’s hard for him to be vulnerable still. He doesn’t promise anything. But he does always tell you he’ll try to get Soap home to you if he can.

[peach-the-owl]

I make my grand return! But I also wanted to try something different from what I normally do and expand my horizons (so to speak), I hope you all enjoy 😁

Meeting Each Other

Hazbin Hotel & Child!Reader

WARNING: Themes of abuse are present in Angel Dust’s scenario, also swearing in his, I did my best to keep the characters in character but there may be some OOC moments, (if there’s any warnings I miss but should add please let me know)

(Set before the events of the show)

Hazbin Hotel:

Charlie and Vaggie

You peek out from the flaming wreckage you used as cover to hide, seeing the coast is clear you carefully step out of where you’re hiding and roam the corpse riddled streets. It reeked of death, not exactly an unfamiliar scent but not a pleasant one either. You hear something shuffle, or maybe someone? You quickly turn around but don’t see anything, now paranoia starts to creep in making you wonder if you may have exposed yourself too soon and any moment an exorcist will swoop down and finish you off. To your utter surprise that’s actually not the case when you see to woman conversing as they strolled down the street, it was so odd to you how casual they looked doing it or maybe you were just getting too used to all the violence that happened on the daily that it struck you as odd. Either way your curiosity gets the better of you and you try to sneak closer without being noticed to see what they were talking about.

“… idea… to work.” You just barely catch the one in the suit say. An idea? Wonder what it could be? You sneak closer.

“…I know… rlie, but try not... aren’t exactly going to…” You hear the one with the X over her eye say, less enthusiastic then the one in the suit. Who’s going to what? You needed to get just a little closer and… you slip and fall. The girl with the X over her eye immediately wipes around, pulling out an angelic spear, with the fire still burning around you she, for just a brief moment, looked like an exorcist ready to strike you. That was enough motivation for you to shuffle back fearfully, as you do her angered expression drops to one of guilt?

“Hello.” You jump a little at the voice, not noticing the lady in the suit had approached you. “Are you lost my little friend?” She asks. You don’t say anything, you’re not sure what to say so you just kinda stare her down. “Hey, it’s okay. I’m Charlie, it’s nice to meet you.” Charlie gives you the warmest smile you’ve ever seen as she holds her hand out to you. You weren’t sure you could trust this supposedly kind gesture of hers so instead you pick yourself up off the ground and give a small nod of acknowledgment, which she still seemed extremely happy about.

“Maybe we should go, you know before their parent? Parents? Whoever might be looking for them comes along. Besides, the kid doesn’t look like they’re much for conversation.” The X eyed one says rather bluntly.

“Or… this could be the perfect opportunity to find our first attendants!” Charlie bounces excitedly before turning back to you. “So you know me. And this amazing person is my girlfriend Vaggie.” She introduces, to which Vaggie gives a bit of an awkward wave.

“I don’t.” You finally find your voice to speak. Vaggie raises a slightly confused eyebrow while Charlie looked at you curiously.

“Don’t what?” She now kneels down to your level.

“She said something about a parent coming to look for me.” You point to Vaggie. “But I don’t have anyone looking after me, even when I was alive no one really did.” You say, crossing your arms uncomfortably. Charlie looked like she was about to cry after hearing that and the next thing you know you’re being scooped up in her arms, surprising you.

“Oh Vaggie! Can we keep them! Please?” She asks, giving big puppy dog eyes.

“Charlie…” Vaggie starts looking at your confused self. “I don’t know… maybe they should decide that for themselves.” She reasons. Charlie holds you out at arms length a less enthused and more gentle smile on her face this time.

“Well? What do you think?”

“Umm…” You stare a bit stunned by all this, not entirely sure how to process everything. You’ve been alone for so long, barely trusting people for your own safety and while part of you wanted to run here and now another was telling you to just give this a chance. “I… I wouldn’t mind… I guess.” You mumble out sheepishly. Charlie bounces around happily with you still in her arms, something you realize you’re probably going to have to get used to, while you catch a faint smile on Vaggie’s face.

“Alright. Well, if you’re staying with us, can we at least get your name kid?” She asks.

“Oh, ummm, the name’s (y/n).” You tell her, she gives you a nod and with some convincing to finally get Charlie to put you down the three of you head off to this hotel Charlie won’t stop talking about.

Angel Dust

“Get back here you little shit!!” You dash away from the Sinners chasing you, mentally slapping yourself for being a little too reckless. You couldn’t help it, the items they had looked so shiny. Having been able to manage some distance between them you quickly skid into a rather empty alleyway to hide. Taking a moment to catch your breath beside a dumpster when a side door slams open, you press yourself against said dumpster and blend in with the shadows around you. You watch as someone is literally thrown out the door another figure peering down at them.

“You think this is some fucking joke! Am I a fucking joke to you Anthony!?” The one peering out the doorway hisses.

“No, no I-I never… I would never-” The other figure sounded panicked, quickly being cut off again by the first.

“Enough! We’ll discuss this later, once we get this mess cleaned up.” With that they slam the door. You sneak a bit closer getting a good look at whoever had been left in the alley with you, their spidery features struck you as familiar, remembering some of those posters you’d see around the city promoting some adult film with a one Angel Dust. And if that’s the case and if he was so popular then he must have some cash on him, ripe for your sticky fingers to grab. This motivation in mind gets you shuffling closer staying as close to the shadows as possible to avoid detection, now all you had to do was reach over and…

“Who the fuck!!” You’re suddenly grabbed by the arm and flung to the ground, now staring up at the angry spider. “The hell? What’s a kid like you doing here?” He still looks mad just with some confusion added to the mix.

“You mean in hell, or just in general?” You question back shoving him back a bit so you could sit up.

“Don’t play cheeky with me kid, you was trying to steal from me, weren’t ya?” He narrows his eyes accusingly at you.

“Trying would imply I didn’t get anything.” You say slyly, holding up a bag of drugs. He immediately snatches it back from you.

“How the fuck did you do that!?” He seemed genuinely surprised you took something without his noticing. You shrug casually in response.

“Oi! Is someone there?!” You freeze when you realize your little stunt cost you time to get away from the Sinners you were running from. Without much time, or thought you scramble into the dumpster just hoping they didn’t see you. The footsteps thump closer and closer, halting right by your hiding spot.

“Well well, if it ain’t the beauty of the Angel Dust themselves.” Shit, you forgot Angel Dust was right there, stupid!

“It is, and what can I do for such strong capable folk like yourselves?” You’re gonna be ratted out for sure.

“Uhh- *ahem* Right, we’s looking for a kid, about yay big and kind of stupid. Like a real piece of shit.” Rude much, if anything they’re the stupid ones.

“Is that so? And what exactly are ya gonna do when you catch them?”

“Oh nothing really, we’s just gonna teach them a lesson, right boys.” A small cheer of “yeah’s” ring from the group. This was it, you were doomed and all because you just-

“I think I saw ‘em run that way and turned left.” You sit there stunned as the footsteps disappear into the distance, unsure if what just happened really just happened. “Coast is clear kid, you can come out of there, hehe cum.” He chuckles at his own unintentional joke. Slowly you peek out from the dumpster looking around to be extra sure that gang was gone before crawling out entirely.

“You… you didn’t rat me out?” You look at him genuinely puzzled, he just shrugs. “Why?” He’s quiet for a long moment before answering.

“Well… why don’t we just say you owe me now.” He says, crossing his arms and looking away from you.

“Oh, so you want my soul for something.” You huff.

“As nice as that would be, I was thinkin’ more a fair trade.”

“Like what?” You we’re getting very confused and curious as to what was on his mind.

“I use my ravishingly good looks and smooth talk to get you out of trouble, and you use those little skills of yours to snag me some of that good nose candy.” You think on this for a second, letting his words sink in and it wasn’t the worst situation to be in, all things considered.

“Alright! You got yourself a deal.” You shake each other’s hands, a thread like a spiders web wraps around your hand while a wispy one wraps around his, sealing your deal together. You both blink in surprise at this. “Did you that was gonna happen?” You ask him as you pull away.

“Nope… eh, I’m sure it’s fine.” He brushes off nonchalantly. His calm demeanour quickly shifts to to fear when the door open once more.

“Angel I’m so sorry for how I yelled at you earlier. I didn’t mean it, honest, it’s just been so stressful today. You understand, don’t you?” The pimp says in a sickly sweet voice.

“I uhh…” Angel takes a small look over his shoulder a second to see his own shadow give him a quick wink then disappear into the darkness of the alleyway. “Of course…” He shakes himself off and with a small second of hesitance, re-enters the studio.

Alastor

The streets were quiet and the sky was darker then normal as you kept a decent pace behind the odd man with the strange static noise coming off of him. He’d appeared not too long ago seemingly minding his own business, no one bothering to look twice at him but you found him interesting. After all he basically just got here and already he’s strolling around with the confidence like he owned the place. He turns and without thinking you follow, only to end up staring down the dead end street at nothing. The static sound fills your ears loudly, you quickly cover them and tilt your head up to see the looming figure grinning back at you.

“You seem lost my little friend! T̷͈̜̑o̶͈͊̌ ̸͔͂̎w̵̫̠̕ḣ̴̗̋a̵̐͜ţ̵̗̊́ ̴̣̯̈́d̷̛̪ȍ̷̘ ̷͉͚̍̓Ǐ̶̬ ̴̠̦̉̄o̸͉̍̔w̶̧̟̃é̸͎̻̆ ̸͉̎t̸͇̀̂ͅh̷̥͝ê̶͕̞ ̷̠̍̅p̴̢̓l̴̨̹̑͒ẻ̷̮̅a̷͔͛͊ş̸̾ȕ̷̩͍r̶̹̔e̸̮̬̓ ̵̱̼͌͗ó̴̧͉̈́f̷̡̬̓̓ ̷̰̝͒̀y̴͚̪͘͝o̵̙͋ǔ̵͙ ̶̙̇̂͜f̵̧̪̓ö̶͉́ͅl̶̢̮̅̌l̶̝͂͘ͅo̵̗̳͌̂ŵ̷͓͓̽i̷̧̛̼̾n̶̹̝̔̈g̷̡̡̿ ̴̤͝m̶̩̊̓è̷̹̭?̷̩̻͂͠” The grin never falters as his tone lowers leaving an uneasy feeling in your gut.

“Umm… c-curiosity?” You say shakily.

“Well why didn’t you just say so! If I’d known I already be paraded by fans I’d have given a better welcome!” He laughs jovially. “Though…” He leans down to get a closer look at you. “You don’t appear as someone who’s well versed in the art of radio.” He raises an amused eyebrow at you.

“Oh… umm… I…” You struggle to think of a good excuse, still new to the whole radio stuff. “I am aware of them.” He straightens himself up, still holding a look of amusement on you, then a look of realization crosses his ever smiling face.

“Oh ho! Where have my manners gone? The name’s Alastor, my fine little friend. To whom do I have the pleasure of speaking to?” He introduces himself.

“Uhhh, my name’s (y/n).” You greet back.

“Hmmm, so tell me. What really pulled you to follow me?” Alastor hums in thought, being slightly less threatening then earlier.

“You walk with a lot of confidence for someone who’s only been here for about a week. I was curious for why.” You confess.

“Is that all? Haha! Why it’s very simple my little friend. With confidence you hold the upper hand against your opponent no matter the situation.” He proclaims proudly. “Now then, I for one couldn’t help but notice you’re… unique attributes about you.” You look away from him nervously. “Now now, no need to feel shameful. In fact I believe you should embrace it! And I can help.”

“You can help me? How?” You knew exactly where he was going with this but played along.

“Isn’t it obvious? By giving you reason to put those skills of yours to use! And there’s no better person then I to help give you that reason.” He gleefully remarks.

“I mean… I guess.” You draw out the words as an idea forms in your head.

“So… ĭ̸̍̚͜t̴̝̫̆̊’̸̲̺̈́̚s̸̗̓͆͂͆̀̚ ̶̥̖͋͆̾̆̅̏̓ą̴̢̳̤̋̋̉̽̍͌͠ ̸͓̜̲̭̳̦̠̅͗̋̅d̶̙̾̉͗̒e̴̛̙̿͐a̴̟͗́̂̆̎ĺ̴̠̻̒ ̶̧̺̺̳̕t̵̢̰̍̿̍̈́̓͒͌h̵̢̼̰̠͕̀̔̽ę̵͖͚͕̲̓̋͠n̷̢̫̻̆͐͆ͅͅ?̵̲͗͗͒” Alastor holds out his hand to you a green aura around it as a small gust of wind whips around the two of you.

“Only if you promise me that I don’t get in trouble or harmed by anything or anyone.” You quickly say.

“Is that all?” He tilts his head curiously at you. You nod in response, he narrows his eyes at you a second or two before answering. “Cross my heart.” He says to which you then accept his handshake sealing the deal between the two of you.

There it was, a deal was made and the two of you left that dead end street. You weren’t sure what Alastor had planned but that didn’t really matter to you, all you wanted was protection and that’s exactly what you got.

As for Alastor, while not exactly looking to be someone’s “bodyguard” the pros of this deal heavily outweighed the cons so he let slide…

J̶̡̡̣͈͚͓̱̬̳͇̬̻̲̍̈́́͒̐͒u̵̟̞̞̜̲̖̹̳̇̍͊̀̽͂͜͠s̷̥͖̭̣̞͍̑̄̆̈́ţ̴͎̥̰̲͓̖̓̀͗̄̒̂̒̍̏̽͊̕͝ ̶͔̬̹͚̝̯͖̟̭̹̤̇͋͐͑̉͐t̴̡̜͕͕̠͖̔̓̑̍́̈̇̚͠͝��̺͓̣̫ḧ̴̰͚̯̯̤͓͍̤͚͒̇̈́̆̌̉̑̚͝i̸̘̬̻̐̊̇̎̚ś̴͇̮͕̐̐̓͆̒̓̍̂͝ ̸̡̡̛̩̩̥̰͈̝͔͓̤̖́͒͛͑̆̎̓̈́̚͘͝ö̴̜̭́̀͑̾̑̕͘̕͝ṉ̸̲̥͌̀̽́̓͋̆̒͝c̷̨̨̘̱̲̰̝̟̠̏̍e̸͈̹̒̆̌̒̆…̵̡̭̙͉̱̣̄̐̈́̀̋̂. I

I hope you all enjoyed! Let me know if you want me to continue this or add any characters. (Side note: I have a separate WIP for Helluva Boss characters coming soon (hopefully))😁

[darlingsfandom]

Hiii pookieeeee,I hope life is treating you well 🙂‍↕️🫶🏻

So if you're taking requests, could you write one about Cillian being OBSESSED with the reader's boobs, like he always wants to touch them or put them in his mouth, something about that😮‍💨🥵

I love what you write, and to be honest I reread some of it🤭

Also take this request only if you feel comfortable about it if not you can discard it 🙂‍↕️🫂

I send you all my love, I hope you have some nice and kind days ahead.!!🤞🏻🤞🏻❤️‍🩹

Hi! Stop it 🥺🥺 you’re so sweet ! Thank you so much 💕 I’m doing alright just getting back into the swing of things! I hope you’re doing alright. Also anything with boobs!! I’m in! I love boobs.

TW: tit sucking, nudity ! Not proofread.

It’s not even noon yet and Cillian has asked more than ten times to see your boobs that day. It wasn’t anything new. He was more obsessed with your boobs than you.

“Baby please…” you sighed following a soft laugh as he stood behind you holding your boobs in his hands as you put the dishes on the drying rack.

“Can ya blame me darlin? They’re lovely.” He gave them a squeeze which made you push back against his hips with your own. If he was going to play that game, so can you! You finished up the dishes, dried your hands on the dish towel and took his hands off your boobs to which he gave you a playful pout.

“If you can go until seven o clock tonight without touching my boobs… I’ll let you suck them for the rest of the night.” You arched your eyebrow as he furrowed his.

“That’s not fair! That’s basically the whole day!” Cillian ran his hands over his face in agony and threw his head back before looking you in the eye. “Wut happens if I don’t make it eh?”

“No boob touching for a week!” You had the quickest response he’s ever heard. Cillian sighed before giving you a look that made you feel bad but only for a split second.

“Can I touch them one last time before ya start tis whole thing, please?” He gave you puppy dog eyes.

“Fine. One last time!” You reached down , pulled off your shirt and tossed it onto the table before you felt his big,warm hands on your boobs. His fingers massaged the warm skin with a smile on his lips. It was actually enjoyable to see him so enthused even if it was just your boobs, he praised them. Cillian can recall clearly the first time he seen your tits! How naturally they fell out of your bra, the way they felt in his hands, how you bit your lip when he played with them! Ever since that night he’s always finding a way to touch them! You know he’s always looking them no matter what you’re wearing. It could be your pajama shirt, a low cut tank top or that burgundy dress that’s low cut and ties behind your neck that instantly has him about to cum in his pants, he was always looking at your chest! Even when he shouldn’t be!

“Alright darling, times up.” You gently smacked his hands away to which he huffed when he let go. Cillian pursed his lips together as he watched you grab your shirt from the table and make your way to do the laundry. He was in for it because you weren’t making it easy. You walked around in just a pair of panties doing your little bits of housekeeping. He made his way to the living room to get away from you but that didn’t work since that’s where you liked to fold laundry.

“Yer not being fair ! Just walkin around in those skimpy little panties! That’s just rude.” Cillian threw his hands in the air before crossing his arms over his chest.

“Oh honey …” you fake pouted before stroking his cheek. “Never said I’d play fair.” Your lips brushed against his ear before giving it a little nip. A shiver went down his spine. This was torture! His eyes closed tightly so he couldn’t look at you and it was his way of trying to ignore you but it wasn’t working. He just kept picturing you, how you look so pretty riding him that way he could watch your tits bounce. Cillian grunted before quickly getting on his feet and running to the bedroom. He paced back and forth running his hands through his hair before a smile crept onto his face.

The sound of his footsteps echoed in your ears. He stood in front of you with his hands behind his back before leaning down to kiss your head. That was nothing new but the timing of this made you think. Cillian sat down next to you and watched as you finished folding laundry. Neither of you said a word , not a glance at each other either . You turned to put the clothes back into the basket but as you did suddenly Cillian lowered his head and wrapped his mouth around your nipple.

“Cillian!” You went to push him away but he bit down on your nipple making you yelp. “I said no touching!”

He smirked around your nipple before giving it a kiss. “Exactly! Ya said no touching baby, I’m simply sucking on them! There’s the difference! Should’ve been more clear on yer little rules.” He looked you in the eye and as mad as you wanted to be, you couldn’t be because he was correct. Cillian wrapped his mouth around your nipple and sucked gently while you scratched the back of his head with your nails giving him that pleasurable feeling. If there was one thing about Cillian that you admired was that if he wanted something he’d do anything he could to get it.

[dbh-bb]

Hi, DBH Fandom, and welcome to the 2025 Round of the Detroit: Become Human Big Bang!

Today we’re announcing the 2025 round, its exciting co-round Die Hard challenge, some new folks to drag, and a partially-new set of rules that we hope will help clarify, encourage, and enthuse participants for this round.

What’s Going On in 2025?

We aren’t just running another round of the Big Bang. We’re introducing an extreme option: A Mega Bang we’re calling RK50K, where writers can team up to write 50,000 words with artists who want to make three or more artworks for the same concept. We had a bunch of overachievers last round, and we’re excited to see what we get in 2025!

That being said, for those of us who are less prolific, limited by schedule, or not infected by cordyceps, the Standard Bang remains open with the same requirements as always: 10,000 words, and one quality art.

Participants this year can sign up for three teams total: two fic and one art, or one fic and two art. There are details about picking up extra projects in the rules!

We are introducing the Bang Rules Etc. early this year because of some changes we’re implementing regarding previous rounds of the Bang Event and ongoing, unfinished works. Sign-ups don’t hit until March, but you can absolutely start writing now. 

Please take the time to read the rules document. Every year we have dozens of people asking questions we’ve already taken hours to clarify. We implore you. [Mr. Wolf voice] Pretty please. With a cherry on top. Read the rules. 

We would like to welcome our team of Mediators and Advisors!

Mediators are a second moderation tier that will help guide the Discord, step in when things are getting tense if mods aren’t around, and - since we’ve managed to adopt some artists - help shape the Bang’s direction as we evolve. Please enjoy a limited introduction to your new Mediators from Sev’s basement, where we’re keeping them trapped by murder dogs:

@aye-toast (Mediator), who was bullied into this 

@moonlitmilo (Mediator), who had a choice

@connor-sent-by-cyberlife (Advisor), who will be helping us out with a couple things once the round gets rolling!

We may be looking for additional assistance with a couple little things throughout the Bang, so if it’s something you’d like to get involved in, watch this space!

The Discord is, as ever, open to anyone to join. Feel free to come and bug the new guys with questions.

The Rules, Schedule, Guidelines, and FAQ are now listed in an evergreen Google Doc here:

Girl That’s So Long

There actually isn’t a lot of new stuff! Most of the information here has been collated from the #bang-info channel in the Discord, and just put into one place where it’s searchable and more easily accessible by participants. And prettier!

The new parts - rules on check-ins, extensions, and drop-outs - were driven by the results of last year’s posting period, which (you might remember) was incredibly challenging, difficult, and time-consuming for the mods, as well as the exit poll. We did not want to need these rules, but based on last year, they’re necessary. They may evolve for future rounds, but that’s what we’re going with for now.

You don’t have to read it all now. You will be held to all rules upon sign-up, whether you’ve read them or not, but there are a lot of days until sign-ups.

The FAQ (last section in the doc) will continue to grow as we get questions.

[maggie-margret-blog]

Friends with Tattoo Benefits

Mingi was one of those guys you just couldn’t replicate. he had a sort of passion for life that was kinda hard to find in people.I had been seeing him as an artist for a little over a year now, slowly but surely filling my arms and mid section with ink. He was talented and enthusiastic about each new project I threw his way, may it be big or small. Mingi himself only had a handful of tattoos littering his milkish skin,but claimed he was in it for the arts, not the personal experience. I had a theory he was just a bitch about pain or needles, nevertheless I never bothered him about it during our sessions. And he couldn’t lie about the money either. It was good fucking money.

Mingi had become somewhat of a best friend, mixed in with all the other things that come with being in close contact for so long.

We had first met that one fateful morning, 2am to be exact, when I had decided that drunk tattoos would be a hilarious idea. In hindsight it was a wonderful memory and honestly I was better for the experience. My young, college ego had been inflated and a stupid decision was just what I needed to keep my head on my shoulders. The night had just begun for me and my friends, bar hopping and partying at each frat house we could bare to see the inside of. All the ones I had seen prior were rat nests, and yet I chose to place myself there. A few of my friends had tagged along one Friday in search of some of my famous shenanigans. Modesty forbid I ever keep my thrills to myself.

“C’mon let’s dip, this place sucks.” Renel quoted as she threw down a pink solo cup onto the frat house floor. We had only been there about 30 minutes and already we were feeling the effects of poor party planning. A dozen or more drunk college girls stood in a tight circle, grinding on any available guy, and in some cases other gals as Salt Shaker boomed from the shitty stereo system. Since the Ying Yang twins weren’t the vibe for the night, I wholeheartedly agreed- “Let’s get the fuck out!”

“I’m barely drunk! Give me a fucking minute!” San hollered over the loud music, grabbing onto Renel’s ponytail and stopping her from moving any further towards the door. “There’s smoke in my eyes, this drink taste like dog shit and my thong is literally splitting my asshole in half, San.” Renel growled as she swatted his hands away. “That’s your fault. Just take it off and sit down.” He laughed, knowing he was only egging her on. “Fine, here-“ Renel said smuggly as she reaches under her sequined skirt, pulling the lacey garment down her legs and stepping out of it. “Woah Ren-“ I began, on my for her to grab the thong and shove it in San’s pocket. “I’ll go sit down.”

“San you asshole.” I laugh lightly, never quiet getting over those two’s battles. “Remind me to give this back to her. If Yunho ever finds out I have his girlfriend’s thong in my pants, he’ll kill me.” He chortles. “I don’t think I will. You deserve a beating.” I joke.

“Tryna get rid of me?”

“Maybe.”

“He’s twice my size. I’m dead.”

“You’re a good guy, you’re fine.”

“Thanks.”

“I’m heading out. I’m meeting my friend downtown.” Hongjoon, another one of chipper friends, said as he pushed past us towards the exit. “Who?” I called out as the sixth drink I had been nursing finally began to hit me. Whatever this shit was was weak, and disgusting. Yet, I was still drowning my weekend stresses in it.

“Mingi. You know that tattoo guy I was talking about.” Hongjoon enthused. This guy was always so happy for some reason. “Are you getting a tattoo?” I asked again.

“Yeah why? You wanna come?”

“I’ll go. Anything to get me out of here.” I agree hastily as I set the solo cup I had been drinking from down. “I’m drunk enough I’ll go.” San called, as if he hadn’t been complaining of the opposite just minutes ago. “Go tell Renel.” I bark as I follow Hongjoon out into the yard.

Once San and Renel had caught up to us, we were already halfway downtown, passing bar after bar and collectively agreeing that we should all go to each one. “If we keep this up I’ll literally never make my appointment.” Joon whined as he threw back one last shot. “Fine, okay let’s go.” San gave a unionized answer for us all. “Mingi’s gonna kill me. He’s supposed to be closing and I’m already 20 minutes late.”

“We’re almost there Joon, calm down.” San said with a hint of a slur. With that statement we came up upon the shop. The neon light was already off, but a man sat at the counter with his head down to scroll on his phone.

“Hey Mingi! Sorry I’m so late!” Joon said sorrowfully as he brought his hands together and bowed shallowly. “Hey, no don’t worry about it. I was just chilling out.” The man spoke as he raised from the counter and reached out for Hongjoon’s hand. The whole place reminded me of a mechanic’s shop. Sort of industrial and gray, but art was strewn across the walls and a few neon light had been added to spruce up the place.

The size of this man had me speechless, though my drunken stupor may have exaggerated it. Mingi was maybe 6’0 and broad in the shoulders and chest. I could tell by the way his black compression shirt stretched over his muscles, rippling in their definition. With the buzz already prominent in my head, this man looked like a playground to me. All I wanted to do was climb him. I could feel a flush flooding my cheeks as he and Hongjoon giggled and joked over sketches and last minute ideas. I could just play it off as a liquor blush, but I knew it was because of him. Fuck he was attractive. He was just so big and handsome.

“Shouldn’t take too long. Maybe an hour.” Mingi said softly as he looked over the small design. It seemed to be just a simple spiderweb with a few intricacies.

As soon as Hongjoon laid down on the sterilized bed, he was snoring. Joon had never once been awake during a session. Either this was a result of the alcohol, or the pain was a sickening comfort for him. Either way he was out. I spent m my time, however, inspecting the artist and the way he did every little thing. His gloves were blue like they had at a doctor’s office, tight and defining over his veined hands. The tips of his thick fingers were gripping the gun firmly with a controlled pressure. His focus and precision were evident in both his work and how he carried out his task. Why was everything about him so alluring?

“Joon? Are you good buddy?” Mingi asked after working on the piece for a good hour. It was swollen and puffed, but I could already tell it would heal beautifully. “Yeah, I’m cool.” Joon said groggily.

San and Renel were sleeping across the waiting room chair at this point, San’s jacket draped over Ren’s legs. That’s small detail made me chuckle. Sure they had their differences, but if she was naked from the waist down in public, he’d protect her. “Dude sick, thank you.” Joon said as he looked over his Achilles heel, now inked and decorated. “No problem man. Now pay me and go home.” Mingi laughed lightly as he pushed Joon towards the front.

“How much?” I asked as an interception. “Hm?” Mingi cocked his head to the side as I stood from my seat, still a little wobbly from all the alcohol in my system.“How much for a small tattoo? A really little one.” I asked. I hadn’t known how I would get close to him, but this was the perfect opportunity. This way I really inspect him up close. Stare deep into his concentrated expression and analyze his eyes. Oh fuck, those eyes.

“Uh, all depends I guess. Why, do you want one?” He questioned as he handed Hongjoon a pen to sign his receipt. I nodded vigorously as I popped up from the plastic chair. I had no clue what I was doing, or why I just agreed to get a tattoo on the spot, but here I was. “Cool, give me a minute.” Mingi said with a smile, showing off his row of beautiful teeth. They weren’t straight but who cared? Not me! He was so cute!

“We’re gonna head out. I’ll get her back to Yunho.” Hongjoon said as he shook Renel awake for a minute or so. “Okay,” I said shortly as a twinge of turmoil erupted in my stomach. Sure this was kind of what I wanted, to be alone with this new hunk, but now I was alone alone? My body shivered involuntarily, spine tingling and adjusting at the thought. “Where’re you going San?” My voice was timid, a gleaming ray of hope in eye as i asked. I was praying that he could be talked into staying with me. “I’m going home so I don’t die. You know how Woo is if I’m not in before sunrise.” I only nodded at the statement as the unsettling feeling began to sober me. But I couldn’t pass this up!

“This way m’lady.” Mingi’s voice broke my illusion of loneliness as all my prior thoughts raced back in. He was the reason I stayed anyway. “Thank you.” I punctuated with a head nod as we walked back to where Hongjoon had just been napping. “Now, what’s going on? What’re we doing?” Mingi asked as he sat back against the counter, arms crossed to expose the few tattoos he had. Though not plentiful, they were big and loud. The one he sported on his left forearm was a colorful mural of what seemed to be hyper realistic squid. The body was red and luminescent with a somewhat manly aura somehow. It was an interesting choice for sure, but it was executed beautifully so I had to admire it for that reason. His right arm was detailed in black and white, a few odd and ends tattooed on his skin, probably to represent certain things. I did notice a small KQ prominent on the first knuckle of his index finger. KQ had been a music club hosted on my campus for years.

I laughed internally at the thought of this big, beefy man singing in a choir, or performing The Newsies at the campus theater. He didn’t seem the type. “Anything I guess. Maybe something coquette-ish.” I babbled, unable to tear my eyes away from Mingi’s form in front of me. I stood sheepishly in front of him, a facade of confidence saving me face, but only a little bit since I was still kind of drunk. “Coquette-ish? Like the frilly bows and Victorian shit?” His voice reverberated is low bass over the air. I watched his mouth and nose as he repeated what I had said, then nodded. He nodded along and choked down a chuckle.

Mingi drew up a tiny little design, detailed with a small, pink ribbon tied into a bow with a pearl accent. It was actually very cute and even my sober mind loved it. Something tiny and coquettish. I was so happy with it.

“You know I don’t usually do walk ins.” He said as he etched a stencil. “Oh? Why start tonight?” I asked, looking over his shoulder, feeling the heat rising from his body. “If I’m being honest I thought you were cute. And I’d rather you get a good drunk tattoo instead of one you’ll regret.” He chuckled lightly, but my face turned red at the mention of his attraction. He thought I was cute? “Now where do you want it?” Mingi asked as he turned to look at me, now just inches from my face. I had practically been his shell for the last 15 minutes as I watched him sketch, so the sudden movement surprised me. I stumbled backwards a bit, and was sure to fall of Mingi hadn’t gripped onto my belt, pulling me back to stability. His hand was nestled between our two bodies, now practically sandwiched together. I couldn’t help myself as the moment dragged on, but I looked forward at the chest I was now level with. Traveling upwards, my eyes met his. They pooled with a twinge of worry and one other emotion I couldn’t quite express. “Sorry,” I mumbled briefly as I stepped back, only for his hand to stay firm on my leather belt. “No, no it’s okay. Are you alright?” He questioned, unmoving from his position. “Y-yes I’m fine.”

The air was thick and heavy around us. The room wasn’t too big so that might have had something to do with it, but probably not. It was more likely the tension between us that simmered. His hand stayed on my belt, even going as far as to tighten his grip. “How drub are you?” He asks suddenly.

“I’m, I’m practically sober.” I answered.

“Do you have a boyfriend?”

“N-no I don’t.”

“Do you know where you are right now?”

“Tattoo shop.”

“Be more specific.” He hummed lowly as his hand pulled me closer, my hip flush against his thigh.

“Flaming Ink, downtown Astoria,” I answered again, quieter than before.

“Can I kiss you?” He asked finally, lowering himself to my level so he could see my expression clearly. My face was burning as it was, so for him to face me directly turned me to mush. And to kiss him? Oh fuck I could’ve vomited with how nervous I was!

I nodded slowly as the larger man braced my jaw in his palm, gently pulling me forward and pressing a hunger pained kiss to my lips. I was taken aback by the way he was already desperate for the contact. To be fair, so was I. The kiss only lasted about 3 seconds before he pulled away, lips parted and eyes droopy. The flecks of his dyed hair fell into his line of sight. The image in front of me was borderline erotic to say the least. I could tell by the look in his eyes that we were nowhere near finished.

Hastily, my arms found perch on his shoulders and I reconnected our lips, lapping at the pillowy petals and melting as he returned the favor. He tugged me closer, hands finally leaving my belt and landing on my waist, pulling my hips to his own. This was all too much yet I couldn’t (wouldn’t) stop myself. I had only wanted him for an hour or so, but that was an hour too long with out him.

Our lip lock progressed into something else entirely, and what that was I didn’t know. Something primal. Something languid and wet. Before I could count his teeth with my tongue, his hands were burrowed down the back of my jeans, fingers gripping at my ass haphazardly. The hum of the overhead lights was enough of a lullaby to keep us in the moment. Soft murmurs from the radio entwined around us and took the lead. “Mingi,” I said hushly, placing a hand on his chest. Oh finally I got to feel it. The muscles tensed under my touch and I watched the nipple harden from under the shirt. “Hm?” He acknowledged my plea and stopped himself. “I’m sorry it was all so fast, I-“ he began to explain himself, hands leaving my behind.

“No, no keep it there. I’m just— kinda you know, worked up.” I heaved as I kept eye contact with him. Those eyes, those honey brown eyes. Somehow the orange and yellow tendrils of hair complimented his eyes perfectly, encasing them in a warm, golden light. He was beautiful.

“Isn’t that a good thing?” His breath fans over neck slightly.

“Yeah, just not used to it.” I admit.

As far as sexual experiences went, I was dim in the subject. Yet, this was fueling a fire I never knew I had.

“Do you wanna stop?” Mingi asks as he’s pulling away.

“No! No I don’t want to!”

With that answer, Mingi was back to exploring what was exposed of my skin. Hands, finger tips, nails. I could feel everything as he lit each of my nerve endings on fire. Each swipe of his tongue left a burning trail in its path. “Fuck-“ I whispered internally, somehow finding my hands curled in his hair, entangling in the locks and pulling at the roots. The feeling of his lips on my neck made my stomach turn and twist with excitement.

How could this happen so fast? How was this really real? Was I dreaming?

No I couldn’t be dreaming. I could feel Mingi’s curious hands pushing up my shirt, folding the fabric upwards and letting it pool onto top of my breasts. Mingi pressed open mouthed kissed on my chest, tugging cheekily at the lining of my bra, teasing the nipple as he let it free. “Pretty.” Mingi’s voice vibrated against my skin, sending shivers down my entire being. Never in a hundred years could I explain myself and my behavior. I hadn’t been this kind of girl. Sure I partied and went a little crazy sometimes, but I had been strict with dating and sex. I never fucked on a first date. Hell, we had just met, never even went out. Renel would never believe me if I told her what was happening.

My brain was fuzzy as we continued in some sort of soft foreplay. His thick fingers had found their way down the front of my jeans, rubbing generously on my stiffening clit and entrance. My breath hitched as one found its way inside of me, petting at the spongy g-spot. I couldn’t keep my knees from buckling under that sort of pressure. I remembered stumbling around in an attempt to find something solid to hold onto, or at least steady myself on as he rid me of my clothes. I could remember removing his skin tight shirt and finally getting an eyeful of his sculptured physique. He was carved artfully as if by a woman with taste and experience. My hands explored his torso, slowly but surely making their way down my boxers. I ran a polished nail down the shaft of his throbbing cock, only to grab the entirety and grace it with a few passing pumps. His belt and jeans found themselves on the floor along with mine.

I had no time to feel the inevitable embarrassment. “Mingi-“ I moaned as he took the initiative to set me on the table, lips now working down my stomach and hips. A strong hand pushed gently on my chest and gestured for me to lay back and I followed with no hesitation. The icy sensation of the vinyl coating made me shiver, but I recovered as soon as his fingers hooked to the hem of my panties. My breathe caught in my throat, Mingi dragging the garment down my legs and letting them fall where they may.

“You’re sure you’re good with this?” He asked once more, looking down at me from his standing position. His eyes were soft and concerned but I could tell he was barely hanging on. His lids sat halfway across his iris, cutting off the light to his eyes. He looked dark and sexy, but alluring. The tattoos that weren’t apparent earlier were now proudly on display.

I only reeled back slightly at the sight of his miniature. Well, you could hardly call it miniature, but you know what I meant. The dick held itself proudly, the tip a dark pink and mushroomed, while the rod was stained a lighter hue, coursing with a few deliciously placed veins.

With as tender of intentions as possible, I reached to caress the decorated man’s chest and feel the heat emitting from the skin. He was as soft as satin, the feeling becoming addictive against my fingertips. His hands traveled to meet mine, bringing the appendage to his lips and leaving a few short kisses on the palm before holding it above my head. Our fingers intertwined as his other hand cradled the soft underside of my knee, pushing it upwards.

“I’m sure.” I said finally, eyes meeting his and he came closer, pressing gentle and reassuring kisses to my cheek and neck.

“Good,” he hummed.

Another blurry moment flashed as he said a few sweet things then continued to move his body. Soon enough I was in a comfortable position with a hand in his and one helping him push inside. My head fell backward as a silent sigh left my lips. Oh shit. “Oh Mingi-“ the words fell fluidly as he breached past my entrance. The stretch alone brought me back to reality, only to be pulled back into whatever sensual scene this was as he began to adjust. His breath was low but not indistinguishable, I could tell he was already feeling good. A second or so passed in silence until the pit in my stomach had grown twice it’s normal size.

“You can move.” I say, slight circling my hips. A pained hiss left Mingi’s plump lips. He takes the bottom in between his teeth and nods as his hips break their isolation

I felt as though my lungs had been palpated, deprived of air and squeezed to the brink. I felt like I was drowning but I couldn’t stop this. This was all too good. Mingi moved with a steady rhythm and intensity. His hands roamed my chest, poking and prodding at my breasts and using them for leverage for his powerful thrusts. I almost felt ridiculous as lewd noises leaked from my throat. My body shook with excitement and my voice was shaky with adrenaline.

“So cute. I can’t fucking stand it.” He growled next to my ear as he punctuated each word with a particularly sharp thrust. I couldn’t believe I had come here to accompany Hongjoon on a drunken tattoo venture, and ended up fucking the artist.

His motions grabbed me as wild, someone with experience in pleasure. Mingi’s body was following a natural progression as the bulbous head of his well endowed cock nestled against my cervix with each violent bash of our hips. A slight shake wracked my muscles and joints as the pressure and endurance of our position grew tiresome. I was exhausted but so ready to reach a peak with him. Coils tightened in my abdomen when Mingi’s voice sounded, moans and small grunts of praise echoed from him.

“Fuck-so good-“ he panted into my neck as his body curled around mine, encasing me in a lustful embrace. Mingi’s toned arms wrapped around my shoulders and waist while his forehead dropped to my collarbone. I could feel the change in angles as he hoisted my torso upwards to meet his, somewhat suspended in air. The erratic pace and movements of his hips reminded me of some crazed animal in heat. I felt the same way though. My body was craving each and every thing Mingi would give to me. His now harsh grips left marks on my skin that I wild find later; they’d bring back me memories of this night and how desperately I would be chasing a feeling like this again.

Creaks and screeches wailed from the legs of the table, yet Mingi couldn’t have cared any less. My arms gripped around his waist, in a way, propelling him forward. “Mingi!” My voice grew weaker in the moment. I was coming close.

“Mmm- fuck…” Mingi groaned against my skin, lips flattening to my chest and hair falling messily over my shoulder. I let my body speak for me as the intensity of his movements and brought me higher and higher. My walls closed around him, clenching in an effort to warn him that I was there. “Mingi! Uh! Gonna cum-“ I moan directly into the man’s ear, hoping to affect him the way I wanted to. “Mm- go ahead baby. You can cum.” His breath was hot as he lifted his head to face me, pressing a kiss to my lips as he quickened his pace. I couldn’t stop the chorus of moans, colored in shock as he pushed me over the edge.

I lay in waves of bliss. One surge after the other. If I was being honest, I had never cum first in any of my previous encounters. This was a once in a lifetime experience for me and I wasn’t going to lie, it was beautiful.

Mingi stalls briefly before sighing in satisfaction as he pulls out of me. My body immediately misses the weight of him inside of me, closing around nothing but air and slick ejaculat. My chest is heaving as I caught my breath, warm fuzzy feelings filling my body. Never had I ever had an orgasm quite like that.

It was soon interrupted at the sound of Mingi’s hand sliding over his still hard erection. I had been so caught up in my own pleasure that I forgot that he hadn’t cum yet. I peak downward at the beautiful man, his face scrunched a bit as he leans over my body. Without much thought I place my smaller hand in his. I can see a smirk forming on his lips as he allows me to help him rub his moistened dick. His eyes open slightly as we make contact, gazes holding intently as waves of pleasure flood his system. I never break eye contact as he reaches his final breath, our hands slow and a loud cry erupts from the man.

“Oh shit- oh fuck-“ Mingi mumbles quietly, forehead nudged to mine as he unloads on my stomach. I was quick to find Mingi’s jaw and yank his sight forward, our eyes meeting once again. “You’re so pretty.” I kiss him before he can answer my statement.

“Me?” He huffs confused. His string brow bone dips in concern of the comment. “Yes, you. You’re very pretty.” I reply, pulling him in for another kiss. “Thank you.” He says genuinely as heaves and tries to catch his breath.

——

“Soooo…. Do you still want that tattoo?” Mingi jokes as he holds the collar of my shirt open above me, placing it down over my head and resting it on my shoulders.

“I might have to take a rain check on that. I’m kinda tired.” My voice was hoarse and losing volume by the minute. A mix of drinking and calling his name for an hour would do the trick.

“Anytime, really. I do actually do tattoos. I swear. I’m not just a whore.” He laughs, looking down at me as I finish dressing myself and heave a sigh.

“I believe you.”

“Good. Do you think you’ll be back?” He questioned, flicking the light switch and opening the door for me. It was almost 5 am and I had no alibi for when Renel inevitably asks what kept me out so late. My cheeks flushed as I thought over the details. I might just tell her, just to see her reaction. If I knew anything about Renel, it was that she’d flip if I told her I fucked the tattoo guy.

“I’ll be back. For that tattoo and also… you know, if you ever wanna…” I led the the statement, looking down at my hands as he walked along side me towards the dorms. “I’m down. You know for tattoos… and… yeah.” He agreed. It was barely dawn, but I could tell his cheeks were as red as mine.

As soon as we reached my dormitory, I turned to face the man who had just made my night. I craned my neck upwards to face him. Gosh he was beautiful, especially in the light of the rising sun. “Thank you so much for tonight Mingi. And for walking me home.”

“Of course. Anytime, really. Have a good night.” He said gently.

“Or I guess morning. Have a Good morning.” He repeated. I chuckled slightly, placing a hand on his chest gingerly and pushing myself to stand on my tiptoes. I was hoping Mingi would get the idea and thankfully he did. His strong hands embraced me one last time as we shared a kiss. Nothing lustful or suggestive. A light, sweet, tender kiss.

“Have a good morning Mingi.” I said finally as we broke the kiss and I ran off towards the dorm doors.

“Tell me EVERYTHING!” A shrill voice echoed throughout the whole room as Renel surprised me at the door. My heart nearly burst out of my chest.

“Girl, sit down. You’re gonna love this!”

~The End~

[lynnieverse]

undertow // collision

rafe cameron x og fmc

masterlist

✰ first chapter!

✰ 3.8k words

✰ chapter song -> control by halsey

✰ tags: morally grey, one-sided rivalry, mystery, mutual pining, tension, redemption

✰ a/n: this is the first chapter of my fic I’ve been writing…let me know if you like it and want more!! thank you :)

Going back to Figure Eight was the absolute last thing Lennox Thornton wanted to do. She had escaped it for roughly three years, and now that she was back...she was less than enthused. Dragging all her bags up the driveway, she braced herself for seeing her family again.

The large white door of her parent's house swung open, revealing her beaming mother. Lennox was immediately engulfed in a bone-crushing hug, taking in a sharp breath upon impact.

"Lennox! You're home!" she gushed, pulling back slightly to get a good look at her daughter. Lennox noticed her lack of makeup, glasses, and blonde hair twisted up into a bun. That, along with the navy scrubs her mother was sporting, told her it was an in-office day at her practice.

"Hey, Mom," she smiled. "Gotta work today?" she was still holding on to her, like she was afraid she'd disappear.

"Unfortunately, yes. I have to head out right now actually, but I wanted to be home when you got here." Lennox smiled fondly at that; she loved her mom. If there was one thing she hated about moving away for college, it was the distance.

They both shuffled inside and Lennox took a look around, noticing more unfamiliar decor than when she was there last.

"Looks great in here." Lennox commented, earning a happy gasp from her mom.

"Thank you! I was trying something new." They chatted for a few more minutes before her mom made a face, seeming to remember something. She turned towards the stairs and yelled, "Topper get down here and say hello to your sister!" Turning towards Lennox, she went on to say, "He was taking a nap and told me to wake him up when you got home." Lennox nodded in understanding, shifting the bag on her shoulder uncomfortably.

Footsteps pounded against the floor above them and down the stairs; suddenly she was on the floor. Her bags splayed out around her as she tried to squirm out from under him.

"Topper!" She groaned, pinned to the ground. Their mom laughed and shook her head, ignoring her only daughter clearly dying in front of her.

"Alright you two, I've got to run, don't kill each other please!" she said before speed walking out of the house, Topper still crushing her on the floor.

"Hey, sis! How's it going?"

"It'd be a lot better if your fat ass wasn't on top of me," she groaned, definitely feeling bruises start to form. He laughed and jumped up, offering her a hand. As she steadied herself, and collected everything off the floor, Topper was practically bursting at the seams to tell her something.

"You ready for tonight?" he asked, clearly excited.

"What's tonight?" Lennox asked skeptically, raising an eyebrow at her brother.

"You. Me. Party." She internally groaned; this boy partied like it was his life support.

"Uh, no. I just got here, I'm exhausted."

"Oh come on! You've been gone for forever, and we can finally go out. Please?" He looked at her with puppy dog eyes, the ones he knew she couldn't resist. Lennox huffed and rubbed a hand down her face.

"Fine. But I probably won't stay long." Topper pumped his hand in the air in victory.

"Yes! I don't even care, we're going to have so much fun." Lennox chuckled, he was so goofy.

"Grab one of these and come on," she gestured to the bags surrounding them. Topper, for once, didn't even pull a face. He just did what she said willingly; it was every big sister's dream. He must have really wanted her at that party. She watched him carry her stuff up the stairs with ease, a brief moment of sadness hitting her at how grown up he was.

She hadn't been the best at coming home for the holidays recently, and he'd really shot up in the past couple of years. He actually looked like a man...gross.

They finally made it to her door, and he haphazardly threw everything on her bed. Lennox rolled her eyes, but followed suit, then collapsed on the ground dramatically. In her defense, there were a lot of stairs.

"Alright I guess I have to get ready for this party then...who's hosting?" she called up at him, squinting her eyes against the light. Topper scrunched his eyebrows.

"I actually have no idea, let me go figure that out!" Lennox snorted as he ran away, probably texting all his friends. She forced herself to sit up, looking around at all her luggage. She shouldn't have really been surprised, she had packed it all, but having to face it was a different story. She let herself have one breath before she got to work, the next hour a blur of hangers and storage bins. When she finally felt accomplished enough to move on, she got to work on her makeup, hair, and outfit for the party.

She was just finishing slipping on her shoes when Topper once again appeared in her doorway. This time he had donned a button down shirt and khaki shorts–the standard uniform for OBX. She grabbed her bag and stood in front of him expectantly.

"Ready?" he asked absentmindedly, typing something out on his phone. She hit the back of his hand, making him juggle the device before catching it.

He glared at her. "What was that for?"

"Get off your phone and be present, Topper," she scolded. He looked at her in disbelief, slowly sliding the phone into his pocket.

"Did you just go all 'Mom mode' on me?" he asked, voice rising in pitch. Lennox shrugged, shoving past him.

"Yep, now let's go." Still confused, Topper followed her to his Jeep, unlocking it quickly before they both hopped in. Lennox smoothed down her white dress and sat quietly as Topper peeled out of their driveway. The drive was mostly filled with music, until the route started to feel very familiar.

"Why are we driving towards the Cameron's house?" Lennox turned towards him slowly in her seat. Topper flinched slightly, guilt seeping into his expression.

"About that..."

"Nope, take me home." Lennox crossed her arms, shaking her head back and forth.

"Len, please."

"No, Topper! I refuse to step foot in the same room as him. I won't do it."

"Then I'll make sure he stays away. Please? It would mean a lot to me if you came," he glanced over to her, hopeful. She thought about it for a moment, weighing the pros and cons. She could let loose, have some fun with her brother, but she could also run into him.

Not wanting to rain on his parade, she conceded. "Fine. But you better keep him away."

"I will, I promise!"

Topper did not keep him away. Topper disappeared as soon as they entered the house. Topper was going to die tonight.

The Cameron's house was crowded to say the least. Lennox had bumped into countless amounts of people, and although she was tucked in a corner, she was no less than an arms length away from someone at all times. She had decided upon nursing her beer by herself, seeing as there were almost nobody she was friendly with there. Instead, she entertained herself with people watching.

Everyone was stumbling around, drinks sloshing out of their cups, or dancing to the loud pop music coming out of the speakers in the corner. Some couples were making out on the couches, and there was a beer pong table set up in the next room over, which she could see through the doorway. It was entertaining to say the least.

The only thing off about it was the heavy cloud that had been hovering over her all night. She hadn't seen him yet, but it was like she could feel his presence, suffocating her almost as much as the thick air. It was the anticipation that gave her goosebumps, knowing that at some point, he would have to make himself known.

"Princess! Funny catching you here." The deep voice came from her right side. Lennox cursed, closing her eyes briefly to collect herself. She should have known, speak of the Devil and he will appear. Lennox groaned and turned, narrowing her eyes at none other than Rafe Cameron.

"Fuck off, Rafe." He moved closer, towering over her with a much larger frame than when she left. Her heart rate stuttered as she looked up at him. He was wearing a white polo shirt and shorts, his hair was buzzed, and he was smiling at her wolfishly.

"Can't talk to me like that anymore, Princess. Haven't you heard? I'm crazy." He moved his finger in a circle by his head and rolled his eyes with a smirk, taking a sip from the solo cup in his hand. Lennox actually had heard of his behavior recently. It was one of the many things that worried her about Topper hanging out with him.

"I can talk to you however I want. You're all bark." Rafe snickered and looked away briefly before suddenly pushing up against her. The breath left her lungs as she felt his toned chest pressed to hers. His cologne filled her nose—clean and woody.

What was he doing?

His head lowered to her height, breath tickling her ear.

"That's what you think," he whispered, sending shivers down her spine. He gave her a once over before pushing off the wall, finally drifting back into the crowd. The interaction left her feeling exposed and alone, suddenly aware of every part of her body. He had always had a way of doing that to her–catching her off guard.

Lennox had disliked Rafe for as long as she could remember. There was no specific incident, not really, but she hated the way he treated people.

Nobody really remembered, but it was Rafe who started all the hatred between the Kooks and the Pogues. Sure, there had always been some tension, but it rarely ever went farther than some choice words. She remembered how he'd gone home the summer after fifth grade, a perfectly nice kid, but when he came back he had changed completely. He started influencing others to follow him, picking fights with kids from The Cut. Everyone listened to him because of his name. Lennox never bought into all that bullshit, and she'd always been better friends with the Pogues anyhow. That's when her beef with Rafe started, and she clearly still held a grudge.

Knowing her position had been compromised, Lennox decided to move outside, finding an unoccupied bench by the pool house. The humid air did nothing to help the stickiness of her skin, but she relished the faint breeze. Lennox's head fell to her hands, the alcohol flowing from her feet to her fingertips.

"Rough night?" a deep voice called from a few feet away. Lennox forced herself to look up, seeing a silhouette backlit in the yard. The voice sounded vaguely familiar, but she couldn't place it. Whoever it was, they were walking closer.

"Uh, you could say that I guess." The mystery guy sat down on the bench, and Lennox straightened, suddenly much more aware.

"You don't remember me?" She nervously racked her brain, trying to place the voice; it was only when they locked eyes a breath of relief escaped her.

"Oh my God, little Rutledge, what're you doing here?" John B smiled and ran a hand through his hair.

"We're kind of crashing; Kie's parents made her come." Lennox laughed, of course they were. She marvelled at how grown he looked––a little worn, sure, but he looked good.

John B and the others held a special place in her heart. She was four years older than the group, but she babysat Pope when he was younger, and the rest fell in line. Of course, Sarah, she grew up with. She just couldn't believe they were all adults now.

"What're you up to now, any more treasure hunts planned?" John B laughed, a deep rumbling laugh she'd have to get used to. Topper had filled her in on a lot of the OBX drama via phone call while she was away, but she still had a hard time believing it.

"Definitely not. You didn't hear? I'm going to be a father." Lennox gasped, her eyes widening. John B, a dad? Was he not still a teenager?

"Oh wow, congratulations...who else knows?"

"Pretty much everyone. The group found out on our last...adventure," he shot her a look. "and Rafe was surprisingly cool." Lennox rolled her eyes at the mention of Sarah's brother. John B noticed immediately, snickering. "Still have it in for him, huh?"

"He's a dick. I don't like dicks." John B cackled. "You know what I mean!" she shouted before dissolving into her own fit of giggles.

"Well, that's no reason to isolate yourself from the party. Come hang with us, I know JJ would love to see you." He made kissy noises and dragged her to her feet.

"Oh please, I'm sure he's over his school girl crush by now."

"He is, him and Kie are going strong, actually." She raised her eyebrows, impressed.

"Unexpected, but hell yeah." They both head back inside, into the living room where the Pogues were occupying the sofas.

"Lenny?" JJ called, jumping up from where he was sitting. The other heads snapped in her direction, while she stood and awkwardly waved.

"The prodigal daughter returns!" JJ shouted, running over quickly to wrap her in a bear hug. She grunted in surprise at the force, but wrapped her arms around him.

"Hey, JJ, I missed you," she smiled from ear to ear. As he stepped back, Lennox noticed a faint blush on his cheeks. She glanced over to Kie who just rolled her eyes.

"JJ, get back over here," she shouted, but there was no anger in her tone, only fondness.

Lennox chuckled and took a seat next to Pope.

"Hey kid, how've you been?" Pope playfully rolled his eyes, holding out his hand for their not-so-secret handshake.

"Not a kid anymore, Lenny."

"Yeah yeah, sure P," she said, noticing an unfamiliar face on his other side. She had long braids and a lost look on her face. "Oh, I'm sorry. I don't think we've met!" she said, offering her hand. The girl shook it, smiling at her politely.

"I'm Cleo, nice to meet you." She had an accent, but Lennox couldn't place it.

"Nice to meet you too! How'd you get stuck with these goofballs?" Cleo looked down at her lap, chuckling softly.

"Saved their asses a few times." There were protests throughout the group, everyone starting to argue about who actually saved who. Lennox watched, laughing along with them.

"It's good to see y'all again, been too long," She said after everyone had gone quiet.

"What brings you back?" Kie asked, leaning against JJ. He tucked her into his side, kissing the top of her head. Lennox hesitated with her answer, not sure how to.

"Well, I graduated, so I'm officially ready to start taking over Dad's company." That had been the plan since she was an infant. Go to college, major in business, then integrate herself into Thornton Real Estate. Topper was meant to go to medical school, like their mother.

"That's awesome Len, are you excited?" Sarah asked, leaning forward to grab her hand. She was already glowing, and Lennox felt a burst of happiness for her friend.

"Yeah, of course!" she nodded, squeezing her friend's hand. Who wouldn't be, right?

The night progressed with endless chatter and the occasional drinking game, leaving Lennox very intoxicated and very happy. She had just finished telling each individual around her how much she loved them when her brother made his entrance.

"Lennox, what're you doing hanging out with the trash?" She rolled her eyes. Stupid Figure Eight boys and their stupid rivalry.

"Dude, just go back to the party," John B said, looking over Topper's shit already. She silently wondered everything that had gone down between them, knowing she didn't hear the full story from her brother.

"Why? 'Cause you said so? Nah, I'll pass." Lennox saw his eyes drift over to Sarah, a look of sadness in his eyes. But as soon as she noticed, it was gone, replaced by a cruel smirk.

Before John B could reply, she interjected. "Top, please. Not tonight. You're quite literally killing my buzz." Topper gave her a look, one she didn't catch due to her head spinning.

Despite her drunken state, she still saw Rafe lurking behind him and rolled her eyes.

"Whatever. I'm headed home anyway, let's go." Topper responded, clearly annoyed and obviously more drunk than she was.

"Absolutely not, neither of us can drive," she looked around quickly, trying to find anyone sober. All the Pogues had a beer in their hand except for Sarah, and she wasn't about to drag her away.

"I'll give you a ride, Princess." He was smug, arms crossed as he peered down at her.

"No," she spit, refusing to even look in Rafe's direction.

"Nobody else here is sober. I'm driving you home." Lennox opened her mouth to argue, but he was already walking away, dragging Topper behind him. She threw her hands up and stomped after them, throwing a quick goodbye over her shoulder.

"Rafe!" She called, trying to catch up. She must have screamed his name throughout the entire house before he finally turned around outside.

"Lennox. Will you stop being so goddamn stubborn for once in your life and get in the car?" Rafe said through gritted teeth. His jaw was set as he supported Topper's entire weight on his left side. Someone clearly decided to pass out as soon as he got outside. She huffed, but did as she was told, sliding into the passenger seat of his black Jeep. He wrestled Topper into the back, giving him a random takeout bag to hold onto, and jumped in the driver's side.

"I didn't think that would actually work," he said in disbelief, glancing at her. He shuffled some things around before twisting the key in the ignition.

"I'm nicer when I'm drunk. Listen better." She was starting to lose some of her cognitive thinking, because certainly she had not gotten in a vehicle with Rafe Cameron at the wheel. He gave her a once over before putting the car in drive and carefully exiting the neighborhood.

He was being nice. Well maybe not nice, but considerate, driving her drunk ass home.

No, Lennox, he is a bad person. He's doing this for Top, not you. He is an asshole.

She chanted those words inside her head, over and over, needing the reminder. Suddenly all thoughts of Rafe and his past transgressions started to flood her brain.

That time he humiliated JJ on the beach, bringing up his father and the new bruises JJ was sporting. How he used to pick on Topper, and now ropes him into all sorts of dangerous things. Every argument they had, every time he called her "Princess", it all bubbled up under her skin.

"You going to stop staring a hole into my head?" Rafe quipped.

"You are such an asshole," she narrowed her eyes, turning to face him.

"Why, for driving you home? I'm pretty sure that's the opposite of asshole territory."

"Not now, although I'm sure there's some ulterior motive, I'm talking about always." Rafe's jaw ticked and he shifted in his seat.

"You know what your problem is?" she slurred, her voice thick.

"No, but I'm sure you'll tell me," he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

Lennox let out a sharp laugh, her head falling back against the seat. "You don't care about anyone. Like, at all. Not a single damn person." Rafe snorted, his gaze locked on the road.

"Is this supposed to be some drunken therapy session? If so, I'm not interested, Princess."

"No seriously," she sat up straighter, her words spilling out faster than she could think. "You think you're untouchable, so above everyone else, but you're not. You're miserable, and you make everyone else around you miserable."

"What the fuck did I do this time?"

"What haven't you done? You torment those poor kids! John B, JJ, Pope...even Kie! And for what?" Rafe scoffed, shaking his head.

"They're no saints, either. Maybanks held a fucking gun to your brother's head! You don't even know them." She didn't know about that; conveniently Topper left that out of their weekly phone calls.

"I don't have to know them," she shot back. "I see the way you treat people. The way all the Kooks treat people. They're just trying to survive on this shitty island, and you torture them for it! You're telling me you really had to almost beat Pope to death over a fucking boat?" Rafe looked surprised. "Didn't think I knew about that, did you? What is wrong with you?" Lennox was on a roll now, furious at the man beside her.

Rafe's eyes narrowed, but he didn't say a word. She kept going, her words tumbling out in a drunken blur.

"You drag Topper into your shit every single chance you get. He's supposed to be going to med school, not fucking around and taking the fall for you. And you don't even care what it's doing to him—or anyone."

"Alright Lennox, that's enough. You don't know what you're talking about," he growled, his knuckles tightening on the wheel. They swerve a bit, but he quickly corrects it. "You've been gone a long time, don't act like you know shit."

"Oh, don't I?" she shot back, her voice breaking slightly. "I've watched you ruin people, Rafe. You're reckless and selfish and cruel. You don't care about what it does to Topper, or Sarah, or—God, anyone who's stupid enough to get close to you." Her voice trailed off, and she turned to look out of the window. A flicker of regret flashed across his face.

"You're a black hole, Rafe. You suck the life out of everyone around you." Her breath fogged up the glass.

The car fell into silence, save for the low rumble of the engine. Rafe didn't say anything. Maybe he didn't know what to say. Or maybe he just didn't care.

Lennox let out a humorless laugh, leaning her head back against the window. "You know what? Forget it. I don't even know why I'm wasting my breath. Why do I even bother?" She crossed her arms and ignored him for the rest of the ride.

When they did arrive, she let him deal with Topper, immediately making a beeline for her room. She flopped on her bed, not bothering to undress and drifted off to sleep, leaving the most infuriating man she'd ever met behind.

[coff33andb00ks]

Recipe for the Perfect Christmas 11/12

One part small town girl coming home from the big city. One part handsome stranger. Five parts lifelong friends (don't forget to include their partners). One part stubborn father. A dash of Christmas spirit. Part: Eleven of Twelve Pairing: Oscar Piastri x ofc (with appearances from Mark Webber. Lando Norris, Carlos Sainz, Esteban Ocon, Pato O'Ward, and George Russell) wc: 5,210 warnings: smut soundtrack: spotify ⋆❆⋆ apple music nav: One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six | Seven | Eight | Nine | Ten | Eleven | Twelve a/n: final part tomorrow!! (i will be posting an epilogue on Christmas Eve) Also this part is later than I wanted to post, but we'll blame work

Oscar wasn't sure if Mark was happier to see him or Penny when they arrived at his house. He was greeted with a grin and a slap to his shoulder, while Penny's arrival was enthused over so greatly the dog nearly went spastic. Following them into the house, he watched his dog walk close to Mark's side until they reached the living room, where she sat by the couch until the man sat down. She then hopped up to lie next to him, wagging tail slowing as she settled her head on his thigh and gazed up at him adoringly.

"Some days I think she likes you more than she likes me," he commented, glancing over his shoulder to the staircase.

"She only likes me because I spoil her," Mark chuckled. "She loves you."

He was about to ask if Natalie was ready but stopped himself. He wasn't a kid going on his first date. It wasn't a date. After their walk the day before she had invited him to go with her to dinner with her friends. As friends. To talk more.

Not a date.

"Natalie will be down in a couple minutes."

"No rush." He finally moved to sit on the other couch, eyes moving to the tree placed in front of the window.

"How are Max and Eve liking the house?"

Oscar grinned. "They're loving it. Eve said it took Lucas a while to settle down and get to sleep the other night, but they're settling in. There's still a lot of stuff to get from the apartment, but I'll be doing that this week."

"And what are you gonna do after the holiday?" Mark stopped rubbing Penny when she closed her eyes and sighed.

"I haven't decided yet." So many things hinged on the answer. Mr. Wright had given him ideas that he wasn't sure yet he could pursue. He knew that Max and Eve wouldn't kick him out the day after Christmas, and Eve had even approached asking him about redoing the basement into a guest suite. He knew she didn't want him to leave town, because she had went on to talk about how Max would be working extra hard at the bakery to make sure things there went alright, and she would be going between the bakery and home dealing with the kids and doing the online work she would be starting after the first of the year. She hadn't come right out and said she wanted him to stay and help as they got adjusted to their new life, but he wasn't stupid.

"I hope you stick around. The town's better for having you."

Oscar smiled and murmured a quick thanks. "When is your surgery?"

"The fifth. I go in the night before."

The older man looked down at Penny and Oscar could feel his fear. "I'm sure it'll be fine, Mark."

"I'm praying it will be." He sighed, suddenly looking twenty years older. He looked up, and the fear and worries faded away as he smiled.

At the same instant Oscar heard a whisper of movement. He knew it was Natalie coming down the stairs and rose to his feet, turning just as she stepped off the bottom step. His breath caught when he saw the brilliance of her smile and he let his gaze dip to take in the green and gold sweater she wore over a pair of leggings. Raising his eyes to hers, he smiled slowly. She walked into the living room, the tiny bells of her earrings jangling with each step, and the sound reminded him of her giggles.

"You look great," he said, wishing he'd done more than jeans and an old sweater. He'd never been one for dressing up. It had nearly taken an act of God and Eve threatening him with injury to get into a tuxedo for their wedding.

"So do you." The bells tinkled again as she went to the kitchen. She returned a moment later carrying a covered casserole dish, bells tinkling as she leaned to kiss Mark on the cheek. "We're just going to dinner. Do you need anything before we go?"

"Nope. You two have fun."

"There's roast beef and vegetables from lunch. Do you want me to warm it—"

"I can warm up my plate." Mark shook his head. "Go on. Have a good time. Me and Penny are gonna eat and watch some movies."

"What are you going to watch?" she asked, leaning to give Penny a loving head rub.

"White Christmas, Elf, Home Alone, and I think we'll top it off with Snoopy."

"How long do you expect me to be gone?" she laughed.

"No telling with you two."

Choking on an embarrassed laugh, Oscar turned away before either of them could see his burning cheeks. Natalie was groaning and telling her father not to be disgusting. After an amused goodbye, he headed into the foyer, getting her coat and holding it for her to slip her arms into.

"I'm sorry about Dad," she said once they were in his truck, the casserole dish in her lap. "He's just a little crazy. And he's not stupid, so he figured out what happened when I stayed that night. Plus he likes to tease."

"I don't mind it," Oscar assured her. "At least he's not coming after my throat."

"No, he's not like that. Especially if he likes you. And we both know he likes you."

Her hand found his and squeezed after he turned onto Main Street.

"I like you, too," she said softly.

"I was gonna say the same thing."

"But really we keep you around for Penny."

Laughing, he made slowed to make another turn. "Yeah, I figured."

"You could just sell her to us," she teased.

"Sorry, we're a package deal."

"Buy one, get one free?" Her thumb smoothed over his after their fingers twined.

"Something like that."

"My friends like you, too," she announced as the street turned into a country road.

"Yeah?" Oscar smiled. He considered them his friends now, too. Stopping in the road when he saw a deer up ahead, he saw it was starting to snow. He waited until the deer finally moved into the woods before continuing on the way. "Max and Eve like you."

She sighed. "I wanted to hate them. But I already liked them, so…"

"I know." He squeezed her hand. "Oh and the kids adore you."

"I give them cookies, of course they do."

"Oh I think it's a little more than that," he said, slowing as they approached the driveway of the farm. Or was it a ranch? He didn't know what they called their spread of land. He did know that he liked the split-rail fence corners on either side of the end of the driveway, each of them adorned with twinkling lights. The sign announcing the Ocon Riding Academy was embellished by a strand of lights as well. Cruising up the drive, he saw lights wrapped around the top rails of the fencing on either side, ending in spirals of multicolored lights around two towering evergreen trees.

"You know Hannah and Michael love you?" she asked after he'd parked beside Carlos's car.

Looking at her in the glow of the lights decorating the yard in front of the house, Oscar grinned. "Yeah. Why?"

"I think I have a lot in common with them," she commented. She gave his hand a squeeze before opening her door and jumping down.

It wasn't until they climbed the steps to the front porch, which wrapped around both sides of the house and merged into the large back deck, that it hit him what she had said. Catching her hand, he spun her to face him. "Did you mean that?"

The lights reflected in her eyes, turning them to sparkling amber. Her mouth opened then her bottom lip was caught by her teeth. "I think so? Yes. No? I don't know. I just know—"

"What are you guys doing standing on the porch in the cold?" Pato asked, flinging the front door wide open.

"Oh my god, would you give us a minute?" Natalie groaned, whipping her head to look at the man.

He snorted, pushing the door closed. "Fine, fine, get frostbite."

"Where was I?" she sighed, turning back to Oscar.

"Getting frostbite, apparently," he quipped. Rewarded by a disgruntled laugh, he gave her hand a squeeze. "You just know…?"

"I never felt like this with anyone before. It's a little bit like the stomachache I used to get when I ate too many cookies, and I feel like I do when I'm riding with someone and they go over a hill? You know, a little exhilarated? I can't explain it. Because at the same time it's as though I just wrapped myself in a warm blanket. I like it, though. I think. I want to explore it." She frowned. "But—"

"Do you remember what you said about going to church?" he asked softly. "About how it felt like a good talk and a warm meal?"

"Yeah."

"That's what you make me feel." He tried to think of another way to describe it. "Comfortable. And a little exhilarated, too."

She blinked up at him, lips pulling into a smile. "Like your favorite jeans and an old sweater?"

"Yeah," he whispered. He grinned, because she got it. "Just like that."

"What is it, though?"

"It's…" He stroked the back of her hand with his thumb. "It's us. And I want to explore it."

"I want to, too."

"And I want y'all to come in already," a voice said from behind her.

Oscar froze, having been leaning to kiss her. Glancing over her shoulder, he saw Pato leaning in the open door, grinning. With a sigh, he tugged on Natalie's hand before she could grumble at her friend again, and stole a quick kiss before guiding her to the door.

"About damn time," Pato drawled.

"Like you and Amira never have to talk?" Natalie snorted.

"We move and talk at the same time. Makes life so much easier." Once they were inside, he nudged the door shut. "Take your coats off, stay a while. They're here!"

Oscar grinned as the announcement was met with a cheer.

"Okay!" Susie hollered from the direction of the kitchen. "Come peel the potatoes!"

"Which one of us?" Pato yelled back.

"I don't care!"

"I'll go," Natalie laughed, handing her coat to Pato.

Esteban came from the living room, grinning, rolling his eyes when Pato pushed Natalie's coat at him.

"No kids?" Oscar asked once Natalie disappeared into the back of the house.

Esteban slung her coat on the hall tree and motioned for Oscar to put his up, too. "They're with my folks. They like getting all the grandkids together for a couple nights before Christmas."

"That's sweet." Oscar followed him into the great room, with its large couches, big-screen TV, and a comfortable lived-in feel. There were a few toys scattered on the rug near the fireplace, a laptop on the coffee table, and the evidence of homemade ornaments in the works. Blankets were readily available on the couch, and as he flopped down next to George he watched Esteban scoop the toys up and toss them into the toybox in the corner.

"You and Natalie are good now?" Esteban asked, dropping into one corner of the couch.

"I think so."

"So she's not gonna take the job in Atlanta?" Carlos asked.

Oscar felt his brows pinch together. "Atlanta?"

"Yes… You know, big city in Georgia?"

"I know what it is, asshole." He rolled his eyes. "What job?"

George made a face. "Weren't supposed to tell him," he murmured, taking a sip of his drink.

"Ah, damn." Carlos's eyes widened and he licked his lips. Cleared his throat and began drumming his fingers on his thighs. "You didn't hear it from me."

"Is it a writing job?"

"Hey, you want a drink? A beer? Tea?" Esteban asked, hopping to his feet. "How about some apple cider?"

"I'm fine." Oscar noticed neither of the men were looking him in the eye and sighed. "What's the job?"

"I don't know anything," Pato said, holding up his hands. "Just that Amira had an emergency girls' meeting this morning."

"That was about Maddie," George announced. "She wasn't feeling well."

"Is she feeling better now?" Esteban asked.

"Not sure, I don't think Lils has heard from her since this morning."

"Surely Lando would let us know if something was wrong," Pato commented.

"It was about the job, too." Carlos shrugged when everyone looked at him. "Sasha told me about it when she got home. But I don't know anything."

Pato rolled his eyes. "You literally just asked about it though?"

"I know nothing!" Carlos insisted. "Just that she applied. And that she got the offer this morning. I don't know what the job is or even if she's gonna take it."

Esteban sighed, sitting back down. "It's a writing job."

Oscar nodded, forcing himself to settle back on the couch. He wasn't going to go confront her, because that would probably lead to another argument. He didn't want that to happen. But he did want to know if it was true she'd gotten a job in Atlanta. He wanted to know if she would take it and leave the town and her father again. He needed to know why she hadn't told him.

"I know," Esteban said suddenly, clapping his hands against his thighs and jumping to his feet. "Let me take you out to the barn and show you the new stall doors."

"When did you get them?" Standing, Oscar followed him out of the great room and reached for his coat.

"Uh… "A month ago."

"Then I've already seen them." Oscar dropped his hands.

Esteban smoothed a hand over his face. "I thought you'd wanna get some fresh air."

Oscar made a face. "I'm fine."

"You aren't mad?"

"Not mad. Just…" He shrugged, because he didn't know what his emotions were. Disappointment? Sadness? Worry? A molten mixture of all three?

"Oscar, do you want something to drink?"

He turned and saw Susie walking towards him, smiling warmly. Returning the smile, he slipped his hands into the pockets of his jeans. "Hey Susie."

"We got coffee, tea, cocoa…" She paused, glancing towards the ceiling. "Soda, water, milk, orange juice."

"Apple cider," Esteban told her.

"That's gone."

"Already?"

"It's not my fault it's your son's favorite drink."

"I thought your son's favorite drink was cocoa."

"Only when there's cookies."

"He drank cocoa at breakfast and there weren't cookies."

Slipping away while the couple continued to debate their son's favorite beverage, Oscar headed towards the kitchen. Bing Crosby was crooning softly from the Bluetooth speaker on the counter, and he paused in the doorway, greeting the women with a quick wave. They all waved in return, but his gaze was already on Natalie

She was humming along to the song playing, her back to him, one foot lightly bouncing against the floor.

Maybe she would take the job. Maybe she would leave, probably not until after her father recovered from his surgery. Maybe she planned to tell him. Maybe not. Sighing, he crossed over to her, clearing his throat so she would know he was approaching, slipping his arms around her in a gentle hug.

"Bored with guy talk already?" she asked, dropping a peeled potato into the bowl in front of her.

"Can I ask something?" he murmured, aware of the pressing silence around them as Bing Crosby continued to sing about days being merry and bright.

She set the peeler down and turned in his arms. When she saw his face, she looked concerned. Her brow puckered and she sighed. "I was going to tell you tonight."

"Are you taking the job?"

"I don't know yet." She swallowed anxiously. "I have until next week to let them know."

"Do you need to talk to Mark about it?"

She shook her head. "I need to figure some things out."

"If you—" He sighed and leaned to press a kiss to her forehead. He hated seeing her looking so worried. "If you need help figuring those things out, I'm here, okay?"

"You're not gonna yell at me for not telling you right away?"

"That's your job."

The silence was broken by a choked laugh.

Natalie's jaw dropped and she slapped his arm. "That was below the belt."

"Are you even wearing a belt?"

"Stop," she groaned. "You're not mad?"

"I'm not mad," he promised, pulling her close for a quick kiss, cheeks burning when he heard a chorus of 'aww'. "C'mon, I'll help you with the potatoes."

After a leisurely dinner filled with laughter, Natalie watched Oscar push up his sleeves to help with the dishes. Trailing into the great room with the other women, she crowded close when Sasha asked for input on which lingerie she should surprise Carlos with for Christmas. When the men began filtering in Lilli got up to go start a pot of hot cocoa. There was a beat of silence then Esteban mentioned going to check on the horses one more time for the night and Natalie slid her hand into Oscar's when he said he'd tag along. She smiled as she slipped on her coat as the entire group decided to go as well, Lilli calling out to wait for her.

The stable smelled as it always did, of hay and leather and manure and horse. The foal, now officially named Chicory, was curious and adventurous enough to come to the door, her mother hovering nearby. Natalie made sure to give each horse the same amount of attention. She nodded in approval over the improvements and upgrades that Susie pointed out, stepping into the tack room to view the new saddle that Esteban had gotten as an early Christmas present.

"It's beautiful," she murmured, admiring the tooled leather of the Western style saddle.

"It was supposed to be a surprise. But someone was nosy."

"Someone couldn't keep her mouth shut," Esteban said from the doorway. Grinning when both women looked at him, he pulled off his work gloves. "Everybody's settled for the night, Mama."

"Oh, I want to go say goodbye to my goddaughter," Natalie said, skipping out of the tack room.

"Goddaughter?" Oscar laughed, and she noticed bits of alfalfa hay clinging to his sleeves. "I'm picturing you in a tux holding a cigar and talking about family."

"Hey, darling," she cooed after swinging open the top of the half-door. The foal's ears turned and then she was crossing the stall, snuffling the air with interest. "I'd never hold a cigar, but I'd probably wear a tux."

"You could pull it off," he said, reaching to rub the foal's head once she was within reach.

"That's your job," she quipped. Enjoying his burst of laughter, she gently smoothed the foal's forelock, reaching with her other hand to stroke Bonny's face. "Such beautiful girls."

"I'm going back in to finish the hot cocoa," Lilli said from behind her.

"We'll help," Sasha offered.

"Esteban's going to the shed to get the snow shovel in case it snows all night, so can you make sure you close and latch the doors?" Susie asked.

"Of course," Natalie promised.

"Talk to him," Susie whispered in her ear while reaching to give Bonny one last rub.

Drawing a breath to reply, Natalie sighed when she heard boots on the concrete flooring. Seconds later she heard the gentle creak of the barn door being pushed to.

"Do you want a horse of your own someday?" Oscar asked softly.

"I don't know. They're so much work. And they cost a lot of money to take care of," she said. Until their venture into riding lessons and occasional boarding, her friends had gone into the red nearly every month. "They're gorgeous and wonderful, but I think I'm better off just having some I can visit. Plus I don't ride very well. Do you?"

"I can ride okay. But I don't know that I'd want to own any."

"Lucky for us we've got Estie and Susie to come visit whenever we want."

"Yeah, we do," he agreed with a grin.

"I don't have friends in Atlanda," she announced. "With horses or otherwise."

"Okay?" He turned to face her, eyebrows lifting.

"I have a couple contacts, but that's it."

"When I moved out here I only knew Max and Eve. I know that's different." He glanced at Bonny and Chicory, who were moving off to the far corner. "But I didn't know anyone else. I couldn't have found it on a map."

"Well, I can find Atlanta," she conceded. "But I know nothing about the place. Katie, who I talked to this morning? She said she would be happy to help me find an apartment in a good neighborhood. I don't even know the neighborhoods."

"What's the job?"

"Staff writer for a fashion magazine." She named it, and knew he had never heard of it when he merely nodded.

"Do you like fashion?"

"I couldn't tell you the difference between Louboutin and Louis Vuitton," she admitted with a sigh.

He stepped back when she did, reaching to close the door. After latching it, he plucked a bit of hay from his sleeve. "Does it pay well?"

"It's decent. I did a couple of those cost of living calculators online. If I take it, I won't be living paycheck to paycheck, but I won't exactly be living in the lap of luxury." She reached to brush the hay from his sleeves. "The benefits are okay. Nothing to write home about, though."

"Do you want to take it?"

"I don't know," she whispered, hands stilling on his shoulders. "Should I?"

"I can't make that decision for you, Natalie."

"Dad doesn't want me to. He didn't say that, of course. He said I had to do what I think is best. But I know he wants me to stay here. Or at least, close by."

"Of course he does. He'll miss you."

"I'll miss him. If I go," she added.

"He's worried about the surgery." Oscar sighed when she frowned, lifting one hand to smooth back her hair. "He didn't say so, but I could tell he's scared when I asked him about it earlier."

"He hates hospitals. And doctor's offices. Really, he hates anything that isn't home, church, or the bakery."

Oscar chuckled softly. "I can understand that."

"Tell me not to go," she whispered after several seconds passed by. They were still standing in front of Bonny and Chicory's stall, her hands were still on his shoulders, and his palm was still on her cheek.

"I can't tell you that," he sighed.

"Can you tell me anything?"

"I guess I can tell you I don't want you to go. But I probably shouldn't, since I don't know that—"

"Don't," she murmured, not wanting to be reminded that he might be leaving town soon. She couldn't bring herself to admit that was one of the reasons why she was undecided about Atlanta. Was she the reason he couldn't decide whether he wanted to stay in town or not? Was he waiting for her to make some declaration? She wasn't ready for that. Whatever was growing between them was still new to her. She was enjoying it, but the looming question about both their futures had her scared to proclaim anything more than she'd already said.

"Natalie—"

"Kiss me? Please, Oscar." If he kissed her, she could focus on that, on how warm the feel of his lips made her, on how her knees forgot what they were supposed to do and her stomach soared. Instead of all the confusion she was currently dealing with that she didn't want. Grateful when his fingers slid into her hair and his head lowered, she gasped as their lips met. She hadn't expected the tenderness, or the way her breath was snatched from her lungs, or how his sudden exhale through his nose would be hot against her cheek. Opening her mouth, she gave a tiny whine when his tongue dipped inside.

She sank into the kiss and into him, hands creeping up to the collar of his coat. Her fingers brushed his neck and he moved closer, until she could barely smell the horses anymore. Needing to feel the warmth of him, she slipped her hands into the front of his coat, palms flattening over his chest. It wasn't until she slid them lower, to the narrowing of his waist, that she felt his hands moving beneath her coat, too.

Breaking the kiss on a gasp, she stared up at him, heart thudding in her chest. His tongue darted over his lips as though to catch another taste of her and she curled her fingers in the sides of his shirt. "Oscar…"

"Here?" he whispered doubtfully, his hands sweeping up and guiding her coat down her shoulders.

Suddenly, she vividly remembered Susie giving her a tour of the barn soon after it had been built. They had been standing in nearly the exact same spot when her friend had pointed at the end stall and casually commented that she and Esteban had made love in there as soon as the last screw had been tightened. Dragging her tongue over her lips, she nodded, grabbing the front of his coat and walking backwards. She didn't doubt that there were very few spots in the barn that her friends hadn't made love in, but she didn't know about any of them except that stall. Her back met the opposite wall and she giggled, feeling just a little daring and a little silly and more than a little in of the exhilaration she'd mentioned earlier. Just before his lips descended on hers again, she inhaled the scent of leather. His kiss was slow and sensual and made her delirious. Shaking her coat free, she worked to push his off, wrapping her arms around him as soon as it hit the floor. As slow as his kiss was, his hands were lightning-fast, cupping her cheeks then trailing down her sides then slipping beneath her sweater. His fingers were cool against her skin and she squirmed closer to him, one hand slipping between them to stroke the growing bulge in the front of his jeans.

Oscar's fingers stayed on her skin until they were warmed, and his lips remained over hers while he grasped her waist and lifted her against him. He pulled back slightly, hands slipping to the waistband of her leggings. When she nodded eagerly, he grinned.

They fumbled, desperation growing when she had to lower her legs to the floor and unzip her boots to step out of them. Eagerness increased as he dragged her leggings and panties down, stooping long enough to brush kisses over her thighs. Need caused her fingers to be uncooperative and she growled in frustration, finally wrenching his belt free of the buckle. It wasn't romantic, she thought vaguely as he brought her legs around him. The wall was cold but his body radiated heat and she clung to him, muffling her cry against his mouth when he entered her. It was frantic and almost savage, his moans loud and hot in her ear, his fingers digging into her hips. She clawed at his back, whining, and it occurred to her that even like this – unromantic, hard, and fast – it was still better than any she'd ever had.

He groaned, one hand slamming against the wall. Pinning her between him and the unforgiving surface, he tipped his head, offering a breathless kiss that made her see stars. "Stay with me," he whispered, forehead resting against hers.

She dragged one hand up and curled her fingers in his hair. "Oscar…"

"Don't go," he breathed. "I need you."

"I need you, too," she gasped, squeezing her eyes shut. In an instant it became needier. Sloppier. She came suddenly, his name a shriek muffled against his shoulder, legs and arms locking around him as his body grew tense. They trembled simultaneously and the force of it drew a long, keen moan from bot of them.

He held her up against the wall for several long moments, his grip on her thigh easing. When he kissed her again it was loving and sweet and brought tears to her eyes. Several moments passed with her staring into his eyes, and then several more before she finally uncurled her legs from his waist and lowered her feet to the floor. Breathless, she accepted his help in stepping into her leggings, her trembling hands reaching to pull them up. Silent as he refastened his jeans, she put on her boots then grabbed their coats, shaking the bits of hay from them.

Hand in his, she walked out of the barn with him, remembering at the last second to switch off the main lights. The cold was a shock to her and she shivered, leaning against him, while he closed the doors and fastened the latch. They ran across the yard and into the house, bursting into the kitchen with matching giggles. Leaning against the door to close it, she grinned up at him. His scent was embedded in her nose but she could just smell cocoa and pulled away from his kiss when heavy bootsteps sounded.

"Did you close the barn?"

"Yep," she chirped, stepping forward to get herself a cup of cocoa. Oscar's hand was still clasping hers and he stumbled slightly, causing her to giggle again when his arm looped around her waist to steady them both.

"You might want to double-check it," Oscar told Esteban.

Lilli cleared her throat, expression suspicious, but she said nothing while serving mugs of her homemade hot cocoa. There was a companionable silence as they all sipped appreciatively, Oscar and Natalie still in their coats. Amira smiled knowingly when Natalie leaned against the counter.

Natalie looked at her, raising one eyebrow in confusion. Her friend's smile grew and she reached over, tapping the sleeve of her coat. Glancing down, it finally registered that the coat was inside out. She had the urge to laugh and gave in, not embarrassed at having been caught.

Carlos chuckled, leaning to retrieve his phone when it began chiming with an incoming FaceTime. "It's Lando," he told them all, accepting. "Hey, how's—"

"Ssshh!" Lando's silencing hiss caused them all to freeze.

Carloss's eyes widened, then he was grinning, shifting and turning his phone so they could all see.

"Meet Eloise and Evelyn," Maddie said, a sleepy but radiant smile on her face. Lando lowered his phone, and everyone saw the two bundles tucked against her chest.

"Ohmigod!"

"Congratulations!"

"So beautiful!"

"How are you feeling, Mama?"

"Exhausted," Maddie said. "But so happy. We love y'all."

"Love you!"

Lando's face reappeared, his expression almost delirious. He practically babbled about the labor and delivery, dropping his phone the instant one of the twins began to fret.

Natalie wiped her eyes and when she looked up she found Oscar looking at her, one corner of his mouth lifted in a smile.

And she knew what her choice was going to be.

[therealslimshakespeare]

okay i know we’re currently discussing lu being hyperactive in regards to her and benny but also her and bucky are so cute in that sense too because like bucky is so big dog coded and like lu’s hyperactivity fits in perfectly. gale and bucky had a baby and it’s lu smith

okay this like. idk how gale and ida deal with with their hyperactive daughter and hyperactive husband

Just y’all wait until Bucky thinks it’s a great idea to get into boxing competitions in the Stalag to stay busy and make a buck. Yeah, yeah no, his work husband and wife are NOT enthused by his choices or his example for said child

[shiorihyugawrites]

The Dumpster Behind The Club - Eren x Reader Oneshot

You and Eren are out to a club with friends and you got drunk and accidentally flashed someone with your boobs. Eren is now upset and is aggressively fucking you outside the club.

18+ Only | Minors Do not Interact

“Take it, you dumb fucking whore,” Eren drawled out as he aggressively fucked the inside of your mouth.

Tears were streaming down your face. Your makeup was ruined. Your hair was a mess and your drenched cunt was dripping wet on the asphalt outside. Saliva dribbled from the side of your mouth as you struggled to catch your breath from Eren mercilessly using your mouth as his personal fleshlight. And it was making you so horny.

Though I suppose that this is what you wanted from the beginning. Eren and you had been a couple for a few months now and had decided to spend this Saturday night at a club downtown with your friends. I jumped at the invitation, greatly needing this outing as your new job has been keeping you fairly busy these last few weeks. It was also cutting into the quality time you spent with Eren.

Eren’s love language is physical touch, so naturally, he wasn’t very enthused about my  I guess I should rewind to how I got into this predicament in the first place.

jampacked work days. Recently, we haven’t been able to get much alone time together- and I can tell it's been frustrating him. Being able to have sex twice a day used to be the norm for us, now, we’re lucky if we have enough time/energy to do it three times a week. For someone who was as horny as Eren, that was a big shift to deal with. And he already had a brash, and aggressive personality, but this just made it worse.

“You’ve been denying me these for days, but had no problem flashing them to a group of random men?” Eren growled as he continued to fuck your skull, but this time he had one hand tightly squeezing your breast as he fondled your taut nipple between his rough fingers.

You tried to respond but could only gag on his dick, as snot began to bubble from your nose. Eren stuffed his cock so far down your throat that you couldn’t even breathe.

You didn’t have a high liquor tolerance, and you’re a horn dog when you drink, so it only took a few drinks for you to feel as frisky as a cat in heat. The red mini dress you wore was only secured by a thin piece of fabric that wrapped around your neck to tie in a halter. It felt like it was a little loose so you went to the bathroom to fix it, with Eren tagging along with you.

There was a group of guys standing near the bathroom and unfortunately, you would have to walk past them. They all ogled me as I walked by, and one of them was about to open their mouth to say something, but I saw him look above me before closing his mouth and giving a brief nod.

I spun my head around to see Eren giving a death stare to the entire group, looking like he was ready to take someone’s head off if they dared to say or do anything to me. 

Eren was an intimidating man. Sure he was beautiful, but his aura was powerful and with his domineering personality, it wasn’t hard for him to command rooms and receive respect everywhere we go together.

But I was so caught up in the thoughts that I didn’t feel when the straps of my dress suddenly fell and my tits bounced as they were free from their thin restraint. I quickly went to cover my breasts but it was too late. The guys had already seen it, based on the lewd looks on their faces. They got more than enough for their imaginations. I felt so embarrassed.

“Oh my gosh, I-” I started to say, but a hand suddenly shot out and grabbed my upper arm dragging me away with an unprecedented level of force. 

I looked up to see Eren with his eyebrows furrowed and his jaw clenched as he sunk his fingers deep into my arm and dragged me further out of the club. I caught a glint of his green eyes and he looked mad as hell. 

“Eren stop, you’re hurting me,” I said trying to wiggle out of his grip but it was no use. 

“Shut the fuck up!” He barked over the loud music as he shuffled me across the dance floor, towards the back where I saw a large black door with an emergency exit sign lit up above it. 

He opened the door which led to outside, behind the club where it was pretty dark and secluded. Two large dumpsters were back here and despite the graffiti art, they were pretty well kept and looked relatively clean.

“What the hell is your problem?” I asked trying to pull my arm from his grasp. “Are you angry because my dress fell? God Eren, it was an accident! You don’t really think that I purposely-”

“Yes I do,” He firmly stated as green eyes darkened. He began slowly stalking towards me, effectively trapping me between the wall and him. He stared down at me as if I was his last meal. And I saw that fire in his eyes…I know that look all too well.

He suddenly leaned down to place his lips right next to my ear.

“I do think that you would purposely pull your dress down in front of a group of men just to rile me up because I know you’re that much of a whore.” He said huskily in my ear.

My pussy immediately began clenching as I heard him say that. A shiver ran from my nape all the way down my spine to my pussy and I swear it felt like I was zapped with electricity. I suddenly felt bashful, and I knew that my face was as red as a tomato so I didn’t even dare to look him in the eyes. But Eren wasn’t going to allow me that respite. 

“Get on your knees.” He said as he leaned away from me to unbutton his jeans.

“Ere-”

“Get on your fucking knees, now!” He said menacingly as he gripped a firm hand around my neck. 

The sound of his voice was enough to make anyone unable to resist his commands. Besides, you knew better than anyone that Eren doesn’t take disobedience lightly. His domineering gaze never faltered as he watched you slowly kneel on the concrete ground. The feeling of tiny rocks piercing your skin was painful but not as painful as the ache between your legs was. If Eren didn’t give you some sort of relief soon, you felt that you were about to explode.

He slowly reached his hand up to gently cup your chin in his hand and rubbed his thumb over your plump lips. How can one person be so damn attractive?

“Keep it open,” Eren directed as he squeezed my cheeks together until I felt my mouth was forced open.

He moved his hand from my face to pull down his briefs and let his cock spring up. I let out a heavy sigh through my parted lips as I greedily stared at his cock. My core became wetter every second as I felt the alcohol soar through my bloodstream - adding even more pleasure to my already euphoric state. 

Eren was a big man, so naturally, his dick would have to correlate to his size. And boy did it not disappoint!

I can’t tell you exactly what its size is. But I do know it has to be at least 7 inches. And with very impressive girth as well! His dick has a little upward curve to it that never failed to hit that sweet spot inside of me. Eren was the only man to ever make me cum through just vaginal stimulation. And he was cocky as hell about it too. Always bringing up how no one else will ever be able to fuck me as good as he can. To be honest, he’s probably right. 

He gripped the back of my hair to pull me closer to him. He grabbed the base of his cock and slid in past my parted lips, immediately hitting the back of my throat and making me gag and want to pull back, but Eren was having none of that as he forced my head to stay still as I took his entire length in my mouth.

He held it there for about ten seconds before he finally pulled out and I gasped for air; coughing as my breath finally became free. Eren sexily groaned as he pulled out. His eyes closed before he opened them to stare into mine again. That freedom didn’t last long as Eren grabbed my head again, with both hands this time, and began aggressively fucking my skull with an insane level of speed.

“Take it, you dumb fucking whore!” He menacingly growled as he looked down at me. Well, that was a short recap of how I got myself here in the first place.

His fondling of my breasts was enough to make me loudly moan around his cock, the vibrations of his giving him visible chills. I took a quick peak up at him and I wish I could frame the wicked smile was was plastered across his face. He was enjoying himself so much.

“You love this don’t you?” He asked condescendingly. “Nowhere you’d rather be than to be guzzling down my cock on the side of a dumpster, right baby? Look at you, your pussy juices are dripping on the ground by desperately you want me.”

I gave a muffled affirmation as I held onto his thighs tightly to steady myself as he continued his brutal assault on my throat. The filthy words he was saying to me also egged me on even more. I loved when he got aggressive like this.

Eren and I have been together long enough for him to know me like the back of his hand. He knew that I loved being treated like a princess, just as much as I loved being degraded by him like a cheap whore.

His pace picked up as my eyes became glassy and his breathing became erratic. The sounds that were coming from my lips were absolutely sinful. The gushing and that garbling of my spit, mixed with his precum was spread all over my face and the top of my dress. I knew wouldn’t be able to last much longer like this. I was starting to get lightheaded due to the lack of oxygen. 

Sensing this, Eren quickly pulled my head off his dick and spun me around so that I was pressed against the brick wall. I felt his dick piercing into my back as he used his large hands to continue massaging my breasts as he moaned pure filth into my ears.

“You’re such a nasty fucking girl,” He said nibbling on my ear. “I knew sucking me off in the back of a dumpster would make you so fucking wet.”

“Eren,” I moaned, throwing my head back as he reached down to give my ass a hard squeeze before reaching his fingers to my core and spreading my pussy lips before rubbing a finger up and down my clit.

I felt my knees buckle from the slight touch, and I heard Eren chuckle as he brought his finger up to see the amount of wetness on it. He barely touched me and my slickness dripped from his finger onto the floor. I don’t know if I’ve ever felt this horny in my life.

“Look at how much you’re feigning for me baby,” He said rubbing his thumb over his index finger with my cum in it. “I barely even touched you yet.”

“Eren please,” You begged as he began rubbing your folds again.

“Please what?” He replied darkly.

“Fuck me.”

That was all he needed to hear, and he wasted no time scrunching up my dress to my waist and ripping my panties off of me. I was in such a turned-on state that I didn’t even care. I felt him shuffle himself a bit more behind me for a few seconds before I felt the tip of his cock prodding at my entrance and I let out a cry of pleasure as I turned to look at him over my shoulder.

“Oh fuck,” He hissed as he slowly pushed into my slick. Feeling every ridge and pulsation that my pussy had to offer. “You’re so fucking tight baby, you’re swallowing me up.”

I couldn’t even say anything coherent in response to him. My brain had been turned into mush as I languished in the feeling of Eren being inside me. His dick stretched me so painfully, yet so deliciously good. I felt him slowly pull out, leaving just his head in before he rammed back into me, jolting me forward and pressing my face against the wall.

“Oh God, Eren!” I cried out as he began pumping into me like a jackrabbit. The lewd slapping sounds from his hips meeting my ass with every thrust was transporting me to cloud nine.

He suddenly took one hand and used it to keep my face smashed against the wall. The other had a harsh grip on my waist as he dominated my pussy; occasionally he’d let go of my waist to issue a hard slap on my ass cheeks that left marks.

“If you could only see how your pussy is gripping my dick right now, you’d cum in a second,” Eren grunted in your ear, never once letting this thrust’s speed falter. “I should’ve fucked you like this in front of those guys back there. Let them see how much you love to take my dick, and let them see how wet you get for me.”

“Only for you Eren,” I mewled out as I felt myself creep closer to my release.

“That’s right baby, only for me,” Eren grunted as his thrusts started to become slower but much more forceful. He stopped pressing my head into the wall and moved his fingers down to my clit to play with it. 

I tried to move my hand to his hips to make him go a little slowler, but he roughly pushed my hand away before quickly grabbing my arm and pinning it behind my back. 

“There’s no mercy tonight baby girl,” Eren growled out menacingly as his thrusts got even more violent. “You’re going to take everything I have to give.”

You let out a euphoric scream as you felt your orgasm about to reach its peak. Eren was fucking you like he hated you. Every thrust had your whole body jerking forward, yet you ran back to his dick every time because you knew he was the only one who could fuck you the way you loved. That combined with what his fingers were doing to you…you knew you weren’t going to last for much longer.

“Eren, I-I’m gonna cum!” You cried out as your pussy began to tighten.

“Fuck, I feel it, baby, “ Eren said through gritted teeth as his thrusts began to become sporadic. “Keep squeezing my dick like that, oh fuck.”

Both of you were now panting excessively. Eren’s face was flushed red as his eyes were locked on watching his dick move in and out of your tight hole. A frothy white substance began to form due to you guys’ lewd activities, but all of this just turned Eren on even more.

He knew you were about to cum any second now so he began massaging your clit even more before you felt the thread finally snap and you came undone on his cock. Your pussy relaxing and contracting around his dick as you loudly rode out your orgasm. Based on the sounds Eren was making, he was right behind you.

“FUCKKK!” He roared and his hip stuttered in you before he released everything he had in you.

You felt his cock shooting him warm seed in your womb - filling you to the brim with it. Eren was panting heavily as you felt his cock start to go limp inside you. He had his arms wrapped around your waist, and head buried in the crock of your neck as he peppered kisses up and down there. He slowly pulled his dick from you and you shivered at the loss of contact. 

Immediately, his and your cum began to leak out of you and Eren quickly dipped two fingers into your pussy before bringing it up to your lips and making you suck in them. You moaned as you tasted the concoction that both of your juices made.

“Delicious, isn’t it” Eren cockily asked while watching your tongue swirl around his fingers. 

“Hmmm, the best, as usual,” You said in a sultry tone before giving him a wink.

He grabbed the back of your nape and pulled you in for a deep, passionate kiss. His tongue immediately flew into your mouth as he tasted the flavor of his cum mixed with yours. You moaned into his mouth as you felt him reach his hand down to grab your ass and give it a hard squeeze. 

“You’re so fucking perfect,” He breathed in your mouth. “You’re making me want to bend you over again.”

Despite just having an orgasm, your pussy immediately began to pur at those words. Eren knew how to rile you up.

“You’re making me want to let you,” I flirtatiously replied as I grabbed his now-hardening dick in my hand.

“Let me?” He asked incredulously as he chucked before leaning down to stare at me with those intimidating emerald eyes of his. “Your body belongs to me baby girl, and I’ll fuck you whenever I want, wherever I want, however I want.”

Shit.

That was all it took to have my pussy aching for him again as I reached a hand up to wrap around his neck and pull him down for another kiss. Eren was right, deep down I knew I was such a slut for him, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.

~

Masterlist | Patreon

[rogersideup]

Here's my nice to be kneaded headcanon: Reader always brings him treats so Steve feels bad he's not returning something. Since he's now helping out some days a week, he starts doodling little things on post it notes and leaves it in the bakery for her to find. The first few times it's employees that find them and everyone's confused who it's from, till reader puts them all together and it's the spots she took Steve when she showed him the town. She saves them all and it looking forward to what's next on Steve's list to draw.

Nice to be Kneaded:

More fun stuff!

*Had to change up the request a bit as to not interfere with a future plotline that’s already been written.

Hidden Treasure

Can be read as a one shot, or in conjunction with Nice to be Kneaded.

Series masterlist More Fun Stuff masterlist

Nomad Steve x Baker Reader

word count: 1,664

"Hey, look at this really cool thing we found!" One of your employees, Sabrina, told you enthusiastically while quickly approaching you at your spot on the desk.

You ripped your eyes away from the product order invoice on the desktop screen to take interest in her excitement.

"What is it?" You asked, as she handed it to you.

In your hand, she placed a yellow sticky note that was drawn on with a ball point pen. An immediate smile tugged at your lips when you recognized it. It was one of the espresso machines in the lobby.

On the sticky note was a drawing of the machine itself, sitting on the counter accompanying a fresh latte. The detail was sickeningly impressive considering it was on a 3 x 3 yellow square, and drawn on with a 75¢ ball point pen.

"I was doing a quick run to wipe down all the tables after morning rush and found that stuck to the small table by the espresso bar!" Sabrina enthused. "Isn't it incredible?!"

"It's amazing" You agreed with a smile.

"I wonder who did it." She pondered as you handed it back to her.

"Maybe a customer during morning rush" You shrugged, smile still invasive. "Have you guys found any more of them or was it just this one?"

"Nope, this is the first and only one." Sabrina noted. "Maybe they'll come back and leave more."

"Well whoever it is deserves a coffee and a cookie if we catch them." You noted.

"This work of art must be cherished forever" She noted, grabbing the roll of tape and tearing off a piece. She taped the sticky note masterpiece to the wall right next to the computer. "This is the new, official, Nice to be Kneaded art museum."

That post-it stayed on the wall for two days before Steve came back into the bakery to help out with the bulk supply delivery. That's when he caught a glimpse of his drawing taped to the wall, and knew he needed to leave more for you and your employees to find around the bakery.

Day by day, week by week, the scrap paper and pen art museum on the back office wall became quite an impressive display. So much so that you eventually became ignorant to the new additions on the daily because they started to blend in with the rest. But every once in a while, you'd catch your team talking about the most recent little pieces of art so you'd go to inspect the entirety of the collection.

One particularly quiet night in the bakery, you had texted Steven to see if he wanted to hang out with you. It wasn't usually a night he'd come by, but you missed his little antics and his stupidly handsome face.

Without question, he was walking through the door of the bakery 20 minutes later. His golden hair was still slightly soggy from the shower he was taking when you grabbed his attention, and he was dressed casually and comfortably as he always was.

"Hey there, honey!" You smiled big, happy to see your best friend.

"Hello, hello!" He greeted you with a smile just as big as yours, and gave you a big hug.

One thing about Steven was that he was of the same mentality of a Great Dane, he was a lot bigger and stronger than he was aware of, yet he thought he was a lap dog. Even his gentlest of hugs engulfed your entire body, and squeezed you comfortably tight.

"Thanks for coming! It was getting real quiet and lonely in here without you."

"You know I'd never miss a chance to spend time with you." He playfully exclaimed. “Need help with anything?”

“Nothing other than curing my boredom” You shrugged.

His eyes looked over to the wall of sticky notes he had drawn on, completely unbeknownst to you and your entire staff. “What’s all of this?” He questioned, interested to hear your take on the drawings.

“Oh, that’s our art museum” You smiled. “Some unknown person has been leaving these drawings around the store for us to find.”

“Oh really?” Steve cocked his head to the side, fighting a smile.

“Yeah, it’s really fun. We all love it so much” You smiled. “It’s like finding hidden treasure, then when we find them we add them to the wall.”

“Do you have a favorite one?” He asked.

He watched your eyes scan them all over, before your pointed to one of the post-it’s. “That one, but they’re all amazing. I’m going to save them forever.”

His eyes followed your finger to the drawing he did last week of the outside of the bakery, and he could agree that it was one of his favorites too.

You could see the inside of the bakery through the windows on the front, and shining through the reflective glass was the big neon sign that read ‘Nice to be Kneaded’. There were many days where pulling into the parking lot of your cozy bakery filled him with immense comfort, and that drawing made him feel just the same way.

“I like this one” Steve pointed to the drawing he did two days ago of the back of a kid up on his tippy toes, peaking into the case full to the brim with treats.

“Awwwww that one is so cute!” You cooed.

Conversation strayed but Steve’s mind stayed fixed on the little drawings. Much like every other aspect of his life, he didn’t want to lie or keep secrets from you, but he did want to make it fun.

So, he started making it increasingly more obvious that it was him every day he spent in the bakery just to clue you in.

If you were baking cookies, he would draw the cookies.

You cleaned the glass of the bake case? Surprise. The next drawing would be of the case full of pastry with little sparkling shimmers on the glass to show it was completely finger print free.

Oh and that cake you were decorating right in front of his face? Yeah. That was tonight’s drawing.

He got every last detail, down to the different piping tips you used for the princess style, the tiny pearled beads you carefully placed at every joint and peak, and the writing on top in your beautiful handwriting that he honestly struggled to recreate.

Steve really thought this would be the one that pushed it over the edge and helped you put the pieces together, but when he walked in the next day, you said nothing about it.

Even when you looked at it and taped it up in its respective spot, you still didn’t solve the little riddles he was leaving you.

Well, that was true until about an hour later when you walked over to the computer to confirm order details on the cake you were about to start. Making sure you got all the flavors, colors, and theming right was very important to you.

He watched your eyes go from the computer screen, to the drawing you just attached to the wall, back to the computer, back to the drawing.

“Oh my gosh…” You caught his attention. “I just realized this is the cake I made yesterday!” You said happily.

“Wait… don’t you think that’s a little odd?” Steve asked, trying to push you along further into the clue.

“Why would it be?” You questioned.

“Well, if you decorated that cake last night when only you were here, then put it in the fridge for pick up early in the morning, how would the artist have even seen the cake?” Steve continued.

“Wait, you’re so right. That customer picked up at opening.” You agreed. “Oh gosh, and the day before that was a picture of the bake case, I just cleaned it the night before…”

“See, now that’s really odd.” He egged you on.

“Who the hell could this be?” You thought out loud. “Do I have a stalker.”

“Well let’s think rationally about this mystery guy. Can you think of anyone who would’ve seen you clean the bake case and decorate that cake?” Steve asked.

He watched you think for a second. “Other than us two I have no idea… You were here too. Did you see anything weird?”

“Not at all.” Steve couldn’t even hold in the laugh he was desperately trying to conceal. “So if it was just you and I…”

Before he could even finish his sentence, you remembered one very important detail about Steven.

He was an artist.

Steve could literally see the moment it clicked in your head, your face snapped into something between joy and annoyance. But you were smiling with big pink cheeks, so he really didn’t care.

“Steven!” You laughed joyfully, voice raising a few notches.

“What?!” He questioned gigging with you.

“Why didn’t you tell me it was you!” You screeched, reaching forward and very gently play hitting his arm.

“I was seeing how long it would take you to figure it out!”

“Meanie!”

“…and you said it was making you and all your employees happy!” Steve continued explaining. “Leaving drawings around the store to make you guys happy is the least I could do in exchange for how happy you and the bakery make me.”

You cheeks only deepened their blush as his explanation sunk into your mind and heart. “Honey, you already do so much for us and they don’t even know you’re here helping out. You’re appreciated by everyone regardless, and what you do here goes a long way.”

“Yeah, but, I really like making the drawings” he admitted shyly.

“We all love them too. Thanks for all you do for me, Steven.” You said sincerely.

“No, thank you.” He said humbly, his cheeks were blushed pink just like yours.

“Okay, now I just have to get these all in a picture frame…” Thought.

He laughed. “Stop it! They’re literally just post it notes!”

“One man’s post-it is another man’s masterpiece!”

[klbwriting]

Who Am I Really?

Chapter 3

Fandom: Aquaman

Pairing: Ormxfemale!Reader

Warnings: none

Summary: Orm and YN settle into a day at the shelter while trying to figure out who he is

The first day with YN at her shelter was fascinating for Orm. After breakfast she took him to see the cats where they started fixing up their area. There were around 6 cats and 3 kittens right now and they all needed litter changed, water, and food refills. She was patient as Orm couldn’t remember ever seeing a cat before. She taught him how to measure the right amount of food per cat, how to figure out if any were on a special diet, and how to clean litter, which was the worst thing he’d ever experienced. She laughed at his face when the smell hit his nose.

“Sorry, sometimes Goose has tummy trouble,” YN said as she cuddled the black and white kitten while he worked. “I’ll get the next one and then we can move on to the dogs. I have a couple volunteers coming in to walk some today, maybe we can ask them if any of them know you from town.” Orm nodded but had a feeling no one knew who he was. He couldn’t shake the feeling that he wasn’t a metahuman, that he was human at all.

The dogs were not much better smelling than the cats. They cleaned kennels, fed, and watered them and took a few into the play yard to run around. As volunteers arrived YN led them to meet Orm, explaining about him having an accident on a hike, the cover story they had come up with, and asking if they knew who he was or had seen him before. Just as he suspected no one had, but YN was undeterred.

“That’s fine,” she said as they were bathing a large German Shepard after most of the day was over. “We will go into town tonight, walk around, see if anyone put up missing posters or possibly just knows you on sight. How about we go to the mall? Its big and there’s a lot of people, do you think you could handle that? I don’t want to overwhelm you.” Orm thought about it as he caressed the animals head, keeping the boy calm as he was rinsed. The mall didn’t seem like a place he wanted to go, but it might help find someone who knows him. He should probably get it over with.

“Should be fine,” he said. YN noticed he was less than enthused and flicked some water at him. He jumped at the surprise and his mouth fell open before he started laughing. There was a sink near him for smaller animals, so he turned on the tap, got his hand wet and flicked water at her too. When he put his hand back under for more, he noticed the instant boost he got at the feeling off the water. It was invigorating, making him feel stronger than he had ever felt. It was heavenly. YN watched him closely.

“You must love the water,” she said. He looked over, not noticing that he had been entranced by it for longer than normal. He nodded. “Good, you won’t mind this then.” She turned the hose on him and sprayed his face. He sputtered from the sudden wet and then laughed and it felt good. He knew he didn’t have memories, but he felt like he hadn’t laughed like that in a long, long time. Maybe he never laughed, maybe he was miserable or angry, but right now, he wasn’t that. It felt good to laugh.

After finishing with the animals and closing up for the evening YN drove Orm to the mall. He hated it instantly. So many people, so much noise, so much excess. He didn’t know why he was bothered by how much stuff was around but he was. YN seemed to notice his annoyance and led him towards a cart that was selling food.

“I am starving,” she said. “What about you? You think you’re more salty or sweet?” Orm furrowed his brow, looking at the baked treats. Pretzels, his mind remembered that word without prompting. He was trying to figure out what he could remember, how to do basic things, how to read the language here, how to talk, and what he couldn’t remember, his name, past, family. He was trying desperately to pull anything out of his brain to help but nothing was coming. He sighed. “Don’t like pretzels?”

“No, I was lost in my mind,” he said. She looked at him with sympathy, but not pity, it was nice, he hated pity. Well, there was something he remembered. She reached out and took his hand. He felt a small spark in her touch and looked at her. She smiled back at him, and he almost moved closer but the guy at the counter asked for their order.

“2 regular pretzel sticks and 2 cinnamon sugar sticks,” YN said. She pulled her hand away to pay and Orm noticed the gap it left in his hand. Her hand should fill his, that’s all there was to it. She was here with him because she was made for him. And he was for her. Where was all this coming from? Why did he feel this way? She finished paying and he took the offered snacks. They walked towards the stores, and he watched her bite one before taking a bite of his small one. Butter, salt, bread, all tasted amazing on his tongue.

“These are good,” he said, taking a bite out of the sugar one. She nodded. “These are pretzels…”

“Yup, and maybe when we finish walking around we can get you more and try cheese sauce, will change your life,” she said. Orm chuckled. “While we’re here let’s stop and get you some more clothes, you look a little rumpled in those.” Orm looked at what he had been wearing for at least 2 days now. Ya, he could use a change. She led him into what she called a relatively cheap department store. She was asking people as they walked by if they might know him and checking any pieces of paper or notices on walls as they went. She cared so deeply that he be found, that if he had a family that they know he was ok. He was almost hoping he didn’t have anyone; he didn’t want to leave her side. He knew that his emotions couldn’t be trusted right now, anything could easily influence him, but he still had these feelings for her, and he didn’t want to leave her.

“So, clothes, anything?” he asked, motioning to the hundreds of items available. She looked at him, surveying his figure and honestly, enjoying her view, before walking with him and selecting some things. Once she had a few days’ worth of outfits she left him to try things on and find out right sizing. He wasn’t sure what else she did but when he came back out, she had some packets of other basics for him. “Are you sure you want to spend all this money on me?”

“Yes, because if I don’t, you’re going to start smelling like my dogs and I deal with that enough,” she said, a teasing smile on her face. Orm shot her a fake glare and she laughed. It was such a beautiful sound. They bought the clothes and decided to get out of there, heading home. YN couldn’t deny she was falling head over heels for this mysterious visitor. She would still do her best to find his family, help him get home, but deep inside, where her selfish impulses lay, she hoped she could keep him.

[invisibleicewands]

Michael Sheen narrates our brand-new show for The Snowman Tour

We are thrilled to announce that Michael Sheen has recorded the narration of The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle for us, ready for its world premiere on The Snowman Tour, 2024.

“I get to tell the story of The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle! It's something that I'm really excited to be a part of; the storytelling by David Litchfield is so rich, and the music that has been composed by Daniel Whibley is incredibly beautiful. To be able to contribute to such a lovely family experience this Christmas brings me a lot of joy.” Michael Sheen

Our Managing Director, Rachel Whibley, explains, "It’s been a joy collaborating with award-winning author-illustrator David Litchfield, award-winning composer (and Carrot Productions' very own Artistic Director) Daniel Whibley, and animator Kevin Francis to bring The Bear, the Piano, the Dog, and the Fiddle to life for our audiences.”

"We are hugely honoured that Michael Sheen agreed to narrate The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle!" Rachel enthuses. "He is a phenomenal actor and an all-round lovely human being, and it has been a privilege to collaborate with him on this project."

Michael recorded the narration last week in a London studio, and we are delighted to be able to share a sneak preview of his beautiful narration alongside the animation and music.

Michael Sheen

Michael is a multi-award-winning Welsh actor and RADA graduate known for his extensive work across film, TV and stage, as well as his charity work. His vast film credits include The Damned United, David Frost in Frost/Nixon, Tony Blair in The Queen, Lucian in the Underworld series, Aro in The Twilight Saga, Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris, and Apostle.

Michael’s numerous TV credits include The Special Relationship, Masters of Sex, for which he was also a producer, Good Omens, Prodigal Son, Quiz, and Staged - the hit lockdown comedy co-created with David Tennant. Sheen's acclaimed stage performances include Amadeus, Caligula, and Hamlet. Recently, he made his directorial debut with The Way and played Prince Andrew in A Very Royal Scandal. He created, co-directed, and performed in the ground-breaking three-day live event The Passion in Port Talbot for National Theatre Wales.

The Bear and the Piano - the book trilogy

The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle, published in 2018, is the second book in the trilogy created by the multi-award winning illustrator and author, David Litchfield. The original book,The Bear and the Piano, took the world by storm in 2016, winning numerous awards, including Waterstones Children’s Book Prize for the Best Illustrated Book of the year. The final book, The Bear, the Piano, and Little Bear’s Concert published in 2020, sees Bear’s international concert days behind him; now a father, his musical adventures continue closer to home. 

The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle - the story

Set in New Orleans with a new cast of animal musicians, this charming sequel is a story about friendship and perseverance. Hector, a fiddle player, and his dog, Hugo, are best friends. They have made music together through good times, bad times and even some crazy times. Hugo is Hector's biggest fan, and when Hector retires, Hugo secretly learns to play the fiddle himself. But when Hugo gets the chance to play and tour with Bear’s Big Band – an opportunity that Hector had always dreamed of – Hector’s jealousy gets the better of him. Will Hector be able to overcome his own disappointment and learn to be happy for his friend?

This heartfelt tale reminds us that there are many different kinds of success. It celebrates the joy and healing powers of music and friendship, and teaches that friendship, like good music, lasts forever.

David Litchfield - the author and illustrator

David is a multi-award winning illustrator and author. David first started to draw when he was very young, creating Star Wars and Indiana Jones ‘mash up’ comics for his older brother and sister. Since then his work has appeared in magazines, newspapers, books and on T-shirts. He has also exhibited his illustrations in both solo and group shows in the U.K, Europe and America. In addition to The Bear and the Piano trilogy, David’s author/illustrator picture books include Grandad’s Secret Giant, Lights On Cotton Rock, T, and Kid Christmas: Of The Claus Brothers Toyshop. David has illustrated books for authors Ross Montgomery, Gregory Maguire, David Almond and Smriti Halls; Miss Muffet, Or What Came After for Marilyn Singer and book covers for Kate Dicamillo, Neil Patrick Harris, Chloe Daykin and many more. David lives with his family in Bedfordshire, England.

“I am so excited that Carrot Productions are adapting my book 'The Bear, the Piano, the Dog & the Fiddle' for their amazing live performance. Seeing my first book 'The Bear and the Piano' come to life on stage in Carrot's previous shows was one of the highlights of my life and I cannot wait to see what these incredible musicians and storytellers achieve with this new book.” David Litchfield

Daniel Whibley - the composer

Daniel is a composer and arranger whose music is heard live each year by thousands of people across the world, featured on TV and all BBC Radio stations. He was commissioned by Aardman to produce orchestral arrangements for all four Wallace & Gromit films and additional material for Wallace & Gromit and Shaun the Sheep in Concert. He wrote music for the 2023 CBeebies Prom and Mr Tumble’s Special Adventure with the BBC Philharmonic. His Musical Story of the Gingerbread Man has had millions of views, and his 10-part CBeebies series, Musical Storyland, was recently nominated for a Royal Television Society award.

“I’ve relished working alongside animator Kevin Francis to create a brand new score for The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle. Expect some very virtuosic violin playing at the performances!” Daniel Whibley

The Snowman Tour 2024

Carrot Productions are excited to be staging not one, but two world premieres for the 2024 The Snowman Tour. Alongside the screening of The Snowman, we will premiere two films featuring two very special dogs - Hugo the violin-playing dog, and The Snowdog himself.

We will be touring to venues across the country this November and December with two different shows. Choose between:

The Snowman™withThe Snowman and the Snowdog or The Snowman™withThe Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle

Our shows feature screenings of the films, accompanied live by full orchestra, together with some other festive musical delights, and even an appearance from the Snowman himself!

You can hear Michael Sheen's charming and evocative narration of The Bear, the Piano, the Dog and the Fiddle at venues including: Stockport, Oldham, Derby, Buxton, Guildford, Birmingham, Liverpool, York and Chester. See listings for details.

“It's been wonderful to collaborate with the creatives at Penguin and author-illustrator David Litchfield to bring these films to life for our audiences.” Rachel Whibley, Managing Director, Carrot Productions

[cheerycherrycandy-resurrected]

Ghoulette Appreciation Week 12

Week 12: Beach day & Playful one-upping

It's the Beach Episode y'all 🏖️

Rating: G Content: Beach day, competitive ghouls Words: 1378

Read below, or on AO3!

It was a rare day off from touring, and the ghouls were at the beach. In a show of compassion for his cabin-fever-ridden ghouls, Copia had asked the bus driver to drop them at the coast for the day. If they were being sceptical, the ghouls could have realised the empty and quiet bus was more for his benefit than theirs.  

They had arrived early, the long stretch of beach almost entirely empty as it was a weekday. The few humans in sight were all too preoccupied by the dogs they were walking to pay much attention to the noisy gaggle that were setting up camp near the ocean, one looking distinctly less human than the others as they sprinted towards the waves. 

“Keep your damn trunks on!” Mountain hollered after Rain, who was shedding clothes as he ran. There was no response besides the splash of him diving into the water. 

“Dibs on not getting him out later” muttered Dew as he flopped onto his back in the hot sand to begin soaking it up like a lizard. It was a good thing ghouls couldn't get sunburned, Cirrus thought as she helped Mountain set up a drinks cooler in the shade of an umbrella.  

Aurora looked like she was itching to follow Rain and get her feet wet, so Cumulus tied her hair up in a scarf to protect it from the salt and sand and grabbed Rory's hand, running with her down to the water's edge.  

Cirrus joined Mountain – who had seemingly produced a paperback from thin air – on a blanket, content to simply watch her packmates enjoy the beach. Swiss and Phantom seemed to have already started digging a big hole, thankfully downwind as they flung sand behind them. 

Cirrus sat there for a while, enjoying the cool breeze on her skin as she watched her fellow ghoulettes splashing in the shallows. Catching her eye, they beckoned her to join them. Keen to cool off a bit, she jogged lightly down to the water’s edge. 

“You were staring, Riri,” Cumulus teased, “like what you see? Two hot babes all soaking wet?” 

Cirrus flicked water at her, laughing, and Cumulus retaliated by tackling her. Cirrus gasped at the sudden cold and wiped seawater from her face. Even sat down, the water here only reached her chest. Cumulus smirked smugly down from her perch on her lap, her hair and face remaining miraculously dry, protected by a shield of air. 

“I do, actually.” Cirrus grinned up at her. Cumulus leaned in for a quick kiss, before pulling back and dragging Cirrus to her feet.  

“Come swim with us for a bit!” 

A while later, the three ghoulettes returned to the sand to dry off in the warmth of the sun. Dew didn’t seem to have moved, his ears twitching slightly in the breeze the only sign that he was still alive. Phantom and Swiss were now waist deep in their hole. Cirrus passed out sodas from the cooler before plopping down onto her towel. 

“We should build sandcastles!” suggested Aurora, “We could make it a competition?” 

“Ooo good idea,” enthused Cumulus, before turning to yell at Phantom and Swiss. 

“Yo ho me hearties, stop digging for pirate treasure and come build sandcastles!”  

Phantom’s head reappeared from inside the hole excitedly, before scrambling out and over to the ghoulettes. 

"Dew, do you want to join?” the sleepy mutterings Cirrus got in return sounded like a no. 

“Alright, the rules.” Cirrus sat up straighter, “You have thirty minutes, Mountain and I will judge, and no cheating or I’ll sic Rain on you.” As if on cue, Rain popped his head up out of the water and flashed a mouthful of fangs at the ghouls assembled on the beach. 

Cumulus and Aurora ran back to the ocean to get water while Swiss and Phantom both started reshaping the pile of damp sand they had clawed out of their hole. Cirrus sat back to watch them get to work, enjoying the feeling of her element ruffling her hair. 

When Cirrus eventually called time on the sandcastle building, it was far longer than half an hour later. Her packmates had clearly been having so much fun, who was she to stop them? Swiss and Phantom were stood proudly behind a large and messy sandcastle, that looked like a small breeze could knock it down. Cumulus and Aurora were still fussing over their much smaller, but incredibly intricate creation. 

"Wow guys, don't they look great!” Cirrus cooed, getting to her feet. 

“Who won then, it's us right? Look, we recreated the Abbey! There's our wing!” Cumulus asked excitedly. 

"No way, we're gonna win, ours is like five times bigger!” Phantom yelled indignantly. 

“Nuh uh, yours barely looks like a castle!” 

Uh oh. Cirrus knew that if she let this dissolve any nearer to an argument, it would only end in tears and destroyed sandcastles.  

“So, Mount and I are going to judge two categories...” Behind Cirrus, Mountain snickered at her attempt to diffuse their competitive packmates. 

After Mountain had declared Swiss and Phantom the winners of Hardest Castle to Invade (“it has no discernible window or doors, it's a completely impenetrable fortress” he had nodded, feigning seriousness), and Cirrus has awarded Cumulus and Aurora Most Likely to Win an Architecture Prize, Dew had woken up energized to join in the pack activities. 

"Let's play volleyball!” Cumulus suggested, jumping to her feet. A chorus of good-natured groans erupted from the ghouls who knew too well what Cirrus and Cumulus were like playing sports. Cirrus smirked at Cumulus,  

"Oh, you're going down!" 

“Pound sand, loser!” 

“Okay, you two as team captains then?” Swiss interrupted their playful spat, before turning to yell at the ocean, “RAIN!" 

Eventually, the ghouls managed to organise themselves into teams and erect a volleyball net. The advantage of Mountain's height and Rain's thick tail for Cirrus's team was balanced out by the presence of Aurora. Cumulus meanwhile claimed Phantom, Swiss and Dew for her team. 

Cirrus bounced on her toes like she was stood behind her deck of keyboards as she waited for Cumulus to serve the ball. She returned it easily, heckling as she did. Rain returned the next ball, narrowly saving it with a whack of his tail. 

After several rounds of reasonably civilised play, albeit with a near-constant stream of trash talk from the air ghoulettes, it was Aurora's turn to serve. The small ghoulette lobbed the ball as hard as she could, straight into the net. 

“Aww, next time you'll get it Rory!” Cirrus encouraged. Next round, Swiss carefully hit the ball in her direction, lining up an easy return. Aurora lunged for it, missed, and landed on her bottom with a giggle in a spray of sand.  

“I think my fingers touched it, maybe!” she laughed excitedly, scrambling back to her feet. 

The next time she was up, the ball still hit the net, but almost made it over. The ghouls around her cheered, "That was the furthest so far!” 

Eventually, the sun began to graze the horizon, and their shadows lengthened. Copia and the bus would be back to collect them soon, and the two teams were tied for score.  

"Final point!” Cumulus called.  

The volley was one of their longest all game. Finally, the ball glanced off Mountain's fingertips. As it threatened to hit the sand near Aurora, she swiped at it with all her strength. The ball soared through the air, making it over the net with millimetres to spare, and crashing into the sand in front of Phantom. 

"You did it!!” Cirrus squealed, throwing her arms around Aurora and spinning her in a circle. Competitiveness forgotten for a moment, Cumulus ran over to join in the ghoulette hug. 

"That was such a good save Ror!”  

As they continued celebrating, a loud honk sounded from the road along the beach; the bus had returned for them. As they trudged back up the beach with their sandy towels and sports equipment, Cirrus piped up, 

“I said you were going down, didn't I!” 

Cumulus stuck her tongue out at her and skipped on ahead with a smirk. With that, Cirrus found herself tripping over the air in front of her, landing face-first into the sand.