#everyone on the crew hates her damn playlist

[greypetrel]

"You make a fool of death with your beauty" for Max! 💗

Hi Mo! ✨

Thanks for asking Max! This is actually the first thing I finish with her and I don't know what to say. She developed a voice of her own, and that voice is silly. Prompt list here! I hope the random Italian isn’t too much, but here are notes. Her family was from Livorno, so beside "nassa" please note that everything else is typical of just that area, and won't be used or used like this outside Tuscany: Nassa: Those wooden traps you leave on the bottom of the sea to catch lobsters and big crustaceans. (she has a moment of unsureness because I have? You bet she does.) “Bravo bimbo”: “Good lad”. In Tuscany it is used as a random way to address people with a positive sense to it, the way you’d use “dude” or “lad”. The dispregiative correspondent would be: “grullo” ("Bimbo" can mean "child", but not in this case and in this region, it's just a dialectal use that has nothing to do with age. It's VERY typical.) “Maremma maiala”: Litterally it means: “Maremma is a swine”. Maremma is the region on the coast on the south of Tuscany, before Lazio begins. Today it's a beautiful place full of pretty beaches, but in the XIII century, when Siena closed the region off to agriculture, it soon became a big malsane swamp... And remained a place to swear upon for tuscanians.

Lobster Trap

Oh and you in all your vibrant youth How could anything bad ever happen to you? You make a fool of death with your beauty And for a moment I forget to worry - Hunger, Florence + the Machine

“Please. This is my mission, and you all know I’m the best qualified for it.”

Shepard groaned, rolling her eyes at the heavy clouds filling the sky, and quickly batted her eyelashes against the rain. She didn’t listen to Garrus telling her she was stupid and reckless and making him older by the minute, he swore, and climbed up the Atlas herself, grumbling right back and asking him if he knew anything of currents and underwater pressure, because she actually did. When the Turian couldn’t answer and just glared at her with reproach on his face, she ignored him and kept on muttering to herself that if her family had had an Atlas when she was little, they would have been filthy rich.

“Do you know how many… How do you say nassa in English, urgh. Lobster traps? Lobster trap.” She decided, testing control rods and buttons before actually turning everything on and belting herself in. “Well, do you know how many we could have pulled out at once? There are lobsters on Mindoir, you see, and pretty big, full of tasty meat. But catching them is awful work, they are electric, like eels. With this it would have been so easy, you guys have no idea…”

She kept on grumbling, and Liara lightheartedly hated how cool she was in all that. How she could make it such not a big deal over diving to the bottom of an ocean to speak with a mind-controlling creature forgotten since Goddess knew how many cycles. As if it was a normal Tuesday. She knew her well enough to know that it wasn’t even a façade: she was, actually, eager to get in. As if it was just another fishing trip.

“You’re not going to catch lobsters, please stop.” Liara snapped in frustration, stopping her from going on and on about how exactly lobsters are caught, how electric ones are, what’s a nassa that she kept failing to remember the exact term for not in Italian, and how big Mindoir lobster pincers were.

Max looked down at her. Battered up, hair ruffled from the fight, and make up ever so slightly melted around her eyes from all the rain and splashes of sea water. She blinked twice, pondering who knew what and considering both Garrus and Cortez, down there looking at her with equal apprehension.

“As if.” She shrugged it off. “It’s going to be ok, I swear.”

She smiled and winked, in that self-assured way she had and was so comforting for others. No one wanted a commander unsure of herself, and she had plenty self-esteem to pull through and make you believe she knew what she was talking about. Except, she said the same when the first Normandy got crashed and she stayed behind, smiling and winking at her and telling her it would have been ok. Every time she did it, right before jumping in the next crazy mission, it still felt like that time, the aura of effortless calm somewhat ruined.

And this time, there wouldn’t have been any help, or any knowledge of her. Liara was no engineer, she never sailed for more than a day, never worked on the sea as Max did in her youth, she didn’t know about currents or lobster traps or water pressure and compensation… But she knew that heavy objects tended to drown and not be brought back to surface. If she drowned, there would be no body to recover, no body to try and resurrect yet again or just mourn.

“What if something happens down there? Doctor Bryson-”

“- She is alive and well, gave me an hint of what will happen and the limits I shouldn’t push.” She interrupted her, still self-assured, still as if she knew what she was doing. “We can’t allow to let this chance go, and I’m the better qualified to get down there, beside being the Commander of this crew. It will be fine, Liara.”

“What if Leviathan is hostile?” She kept on, ignoring the hint at how she was in command. She was allowed, right there and then, to act as the girlfriend and not as the crew member. “If you’re missing, all the alliances you’ve built… You can’t afford to get down there. Leave it be, if they could help us they would have already. How many cycles did they withstand without doing anything? Why this one should be different?”

“T’soni isn’t wrong, you know…” Garrus scoffed, still working on the terminal to check everything was all right and the Atlas was functional enough. “This piece of junk has been still for too long, it’s full of salt and I doubt its joints will move smoothly.”

Max just groaned and rolled her eyes, and pushed the closure of the belts open.

“Well, it won’t have flexibility, so what? It still has reach.”

“… That was on me, was it.”

She jumped down the Atlas as Garrus sighed in defeat -no one really understood why of all things, Max would mock him with hints at stuff that had reach and/or flexibility, but it never failed to make Garrus abandon the argument. Ignoring him, she marched to Liara with a purpose, stopping but a step away and looking at her with a frown and a stubborn bent of her lips. Instead of talking, she turned back to Cortez, an eyebrow raising.

“Any other comment?” She asked.

“Bring back a lobster if you find one.” Cortez just shrugged.

“Bravo bimbo.”

Then she turned back to Liara, cupped her face with both hands -the kevlar of her gloves was wet and slippery, but she held on without hurting her. Half it was Max to bend forward, half it was always her dragging the asari so she had to take a step not to fall against the woman, but she kissed her, hard and passionately and long.

When she let go with a smack and a last nib to her lower lip, her lipstick was smudged and faded, and she was pink on the cheeks, her smile brighter.

“I’m not letting the space lobster catch me first. I’m coming back, I promise.”

Liara watched her getting back on the Atlas, bickering back and forth with Garrus who started mocking her immediately for sentimentality, and with two fingers pointed at her brow and snapping up and a last wink, she went, jumping in the sea with an excited gait.

And then, there was nothing to do but wait another time, praying that she wasn’t lying to cheer her up.

Garrus patted her shoulder, sitting beside her on a loose crate.

“Come on. She’s coming back, as always.”

“Yes, until she won’t and I won’t have anyone to scold with a ‘I told you so’.”

“I know. No wonder she gets along so well with the Krogans.”

“Yes. The same hard head.”

“Too hard to be cracked by a space lobster, for sure.” A pause. “Particularly one she wants to eat.”

She snorted then, and felt a little better.

---

They extracted her from the Atlas unconscious and with blood trickling down her nose. The glass of the Atlas cracked, and water had trickled in, splashing violently out when they forced it open. Thankfully, it reached the surface before she got submerged past her chest.

It took both Garrus and Cortez to move her and lay her down on the ground, totally unresponsive and unmoving… But as Liara checked right after, fingers trembling and a wrong set of memories dancing in front of her eyes -her skin wasn’t grey, it still was the same warm shade of brown, she wasn’t dead, she wasn’t dead- as they pressed upon her throat, back of her hand ghosting in front of her nose and lips.

She was breathing, at least, but no amount of calling could wake her, and Liara dared not shaking her. If she hit her head or her neck, jostling her too much would have hurt her more.

“Does the shuttle work?” She turned, asking Cortez.

“Ready whenever, the engines aren’t wet.”

“Go back to the Normandy, call for-”

A heavy set of coughs and when she turned, Max was rolling to her side, shoulders shaking as she violently coughed, curling on herself. Everyone relaxed some, seeing that she was, after all, still alive in spite of all odds, one more time.

“Maremma maiala, that was one hell of a lobster.” She exclaimed, breathing heavily and combing her hair back from her face with a hand. She turned to Liara, a ghastly expression on her face.

Her expression was weird. Weirded out, in a way she never was. Maybe it was just that she had blood on her upper lip, spreading widely on her wet skin and the kohl on her eyes was melted and made her look like a panda. She saw her in worse conditions, but after witnessing Ann Bryson get mentally controlled by Leviathan…

Liara glomped, dreading the answer to the next question. A quick glance with Garrus, tho, confirmed her worries. The Italian swearing could have been a trick.

“Are you… Still you? What happened?” She asked, heart beating fast and holding back from touching her.

“There were more of them.” She said, blinking, still catching up. “I spoke with them. I’m not sure they’re fully reliable or friendly, and I have no idea whether we can trust them, but…”

“But…?”

Max turned towards her, expression melting some and eyes keening, as her lips curved in a smirk. A brief anticipation for-

“… but, we can’t possibly make enough mayonnaise to serve them with, so I thought I’d better convince them to help out.”

Liara swatted her arm, exasperated, and Max started laughing.

“You’re an idiot, Shepard.” Garrus concluded, relief in his voice.

Liara cared little for it. She moved forward, hugging her neck and holding her close. Max was still laughing when she hugged her back, relaxing under her frame and resting her head on the asari’s shoulder. A minute signal of relief and tiredness.

And for a moment, thinking of ancestral aliens boiled and covered in mayonnaise -a feat which she had no doubt Max would have succeeded-, having her there between her arms, alive and breathing and with yet another crazy mission she survived in spite of all odds, and well enough to joke about it… Liara forgot to worry about the future.

---

“ALFONSO IL GRANCHIO DEL COCCO!”

Max startled up to bed, waking up abruptly with the realization. When she turned to the side, there was Liara, glaring daggers at her from the one eye that wasn’t pressed into her pillow. If she hadn’t known her better she would have believed she was about to be made levitate away from the room.

“What the fuck, Max?” The Asari asked, voice filled half with sleep, half with resentment.

“Alfonso il granchio del cocco!” She repeated, heatedly. “It’s… Sorry, Alfonso the coconut crab! Leviathan was him!”

Liara groaned aloud and turned on her back, massaging the bridge of her nose with long fingers.

“Ok.” She sighed. “I know I’m going to regret asking, but who is Alfonso?”

Max grinned more widely, and moved forward, splaying herself horizontally on the bed -and over her back- to reach the tablet on Liara’s bedside table. The Asari huffed, as her weight fell on her back, but it was but a moment. She pressed a fleeting kiss on the tip of one of her tentacles, and pushed herself back to her place on the bed, raising the pillow to prop her back against.

It was Liara who switched the light on her bedside table on, grumbling with still sleep in her voice that she was gonna get blind if she kept on reading screens in the dark. Max chuckled, slipping down a little to accommodate her girlfriend scooching closer and circle her waist with an arm, face hidden in her side.

“I thought Leviathan reminded me of something…”

“Yes, a lobster. You also calculated the exact amount of mayonnaise we’d need for it.”

“Mpf, yes, but no. Lobsters are cute and spry, Leviathan wasn’t. It was heavy and grim and basically a tank, I had it on the tip of my tongue until now…” She explained, tapping quickly on the tablet with her fingers. “AH! Look, it’s him!”

Liara sighed deeply and climbed up, hugging the other properly and resting her head on her shoulder, able then to look at the screen and whatever video she meant to make her look at. If she was speaking of coconut crabs with a name, she expected an illustrated book, or some cartoon made for children. She paid no attention and waited, eyes half lidded and relaxed, all cozy with her warm body so close and-

- and then, after too few seconds the music suddenly spiked up and there were two people screaming over heavy and horribly loud guitars and drums.

Alfonso il granchio del cocco Ti apre in due come una scatoletta di tonno- 🎶 *

She let out a yelp, now fully startled awake, jumping on her spot with heart beating fast. Of course she set the volume to full.

The screaming was continuing, and Max started to laugh out loud, shoulders shaking with it.

“You and your damn music!”

Liara swatted her shoulder, and Max just laughed more, launching the tablet away to slide back down, back on the bed and legs bent up, holding her stomach.

“No but you don’t get it, it’s from an old Italian scientist who made videos about animals, and in this he also got a song and-”

She was stopped with a kiss and a hug, which she laughed halfway through it, as the song kept on.

Max’s damn music would have been the death of Liara - she still hadn’t discovered how to stop her cabinets playing You Shook Me All Night Long every time she opened one.

In that moment, tho, she even forgot that she should have been worried about the future.

--- * Alfonso the coconut crab He opens you in two like a tuna can

[zenaidamacrouras1]

Backhoe Bonus Drabble

This is a random summer scene that doesn't fit into any of my Backhoe chapters. I'll have a series of these that I'll probably add on as a separate work in the Backhoe series after the whole fic is finished, but have a tumblr drabble for now. This takes place during the time jump between chapters 19 and 20. I don't think it's majorly spoilery, and I don't think you need to read the fic to get it. If you like to read a fic pure with no surprises whatsoever, maybe read the fic first.

Chapters 1-20 are here, chapters 21 and 22 are mostly ready and will post this week and next, probably going to be like 25 chapters total please stop laughing at me I'm trying to end this damn thing. (initial chapter count was like 5) (go ahead and laugh) (but also feel free to encourage me, I think I'm finally out of my writer's block, yay!)

Late July:

Ever since Bucky became manager for his crew, he’s tried to make sure they don’t have unexpected afternoons off. On the one hand, sure, there’s nothing better than finishing a job early and peacing the fuck off to head home. On the other, well, you don’t get paid for hours you don’t work. So, he tries to make it so everyone’s getting paid, is all. 

But sometimes, the timing just doesn’t work out like that. Right now, it’s 1 pm on a Friday, and they’ve wrapped up this gig, and it don’t make sense to start on the next job till Monday morning, so everyone heads home. Bucky promises some long days next week to make up for it on that paycheck. So it’s backslaps and a few dirty jokes while they all pack up, and then Bucky’s in his truck driving the winding roads back home. 

Steve’s gonna be there, he thinks, with a grin he’s glad no one can see. Steve’s just come back last night from helping out with some action out in San Francisco. Greenpeace paid him to fly out there and do trainings on art shit and paint some big-ass banners.

Bucky’d like to burst with pride when he saw those damn banners hanging from a god damn skyscraper, protesting globalization. Steve was on strict orders from Greenpeace and one J.B. Barnes not to get arrested himself; he just painted the banners. Bucky had shown the pictures to Peter, cause Peter was the only guy at work he’s out with on both the politics stuff and on the gay stuff. Peter’s genuine “Holy shit, man” was worth all the teasing that followed about how fucking lovesick Bucky is about his sexy little anarchist boyfriend. 

But also, he had missed Steve, fuck it all but he did, and dammit the guy was only gone five days. It doesn’t bode well for when Steve goes back to college next month, but Bucky’s never been one to worry about a debt before it comes due. That just means suffering twice.

Bucky listens to the truck for any errant noises as he drives. He'd thought he heard a knock this morning, but apparently whatever it was has worked itself out for now. He switches on the stereo.

Bucky tries one of the playlists Steve loves listening to, featuring Against Me! and a bunch of other political punk bands. Bucky doesn’t hate it, he doesn’t, but fuck, it’s a pretty summer’s day and the sunlight’s filtering through the leaves and everything green is just so happy to be alive and growing in the mountains right now. That music is so damn strident, sometimes a man just wants to enjoy some peace in this world and forget about all the problems. After half a song, Bucky switches to some bluegrass. He and Steve don’t have to like the same music, he figures. 

Becca Jane, never shy with her opinion, has declared that Steve’s music of choice sounded "like you stuck a bull in a barrel with an electric guitar and shoved it down a flight of stairs." About three days into listening to the punk music coming out of Steve’s studio in the laundry room, she’d come home from her MCAT prep course and handed Steve a pair of brand-new bluetooth headphones and an ultimatum. 

So the Barnes kids like country music and their houseguest, who happens to be Bucky's boyfriend, likes punk. Steve switched to headphones and there really haven’t been any other major conflicts with him living there. It’s kind of a miracle, Bucky thinks, as he turns onto Brushy Fork Holler Road. Jean’s out in her front yard gardening, and he raises two fingers up off the wheel to say hi, slowing in case she’s got something to say, but she just waves and looks back down to her precious rose bushes. Sometimes Bucky thinks she spends more time fussing over her flowers than Bucky does raising five kids, but to each their own. Looks pretty, anyway. 

Then it's just another minute until he hears the crunch of gravel under his truck tires and he's looking at the house he's lived in his whole life. 

The house is quiet when he climbs out of the truck in the driveway. No one’s expecting him, so that ain’t a surprise. The girls are probably down at the swimming hole or playing video games at Maria and Monica’s. He kicks off his boots on the front porch and goes prowling through the house. He grins when he hears Steve singing from the laundry room. 

Steve’s singing is—well, the thing is, if Steve was good at everything, that just wouldn’t be fair, now would it? Steve’s a great strategist on this pipeline shit; he’s been such a help to Bucky on his quest to stop the fucking thing. He has a great head for the lawyer stuff and the activist strategy side of it. He’s learning how to cook and getting real good at it. He’s obviously a gifted artist, as everyone knows, and he’s fucking nice as hell too. The girls love him, and they are a tough audience. 

And, well, he has other skills Bucky ain’t shouting to the world about, that’s private, but Bucky sure ain’t got nothing to complain about. When it comes to the bedroom, Steve’s a god damn prodigy, Bucky thinks with a shiver of pleasure down his spine. Steven Brooklyn Grant God Damn Rogers. 

So it just makes sense that Steve would have a few faults, and that's the most charitable thing Bucky can say about Steve’s singing. Steve couldn’t carry a tune in a bucket—hell, he couldn’t carry a tune in a semi-truck full of buckets. He’d flip that semi right over, highway’d be backed up and on fire from here to Timbuktu. 

Which is why Bucky’s at the door of the laundry room before he can piece together what song Steve’s torturing to within an inch of its life. It’s the fucking Dixie Chicks. Or just the Chicks now, whatever. Steve is obediently wearing the headphones Becca told him to wear at the risk of death if she had to hear “that atonal screeching you call music one more fucking time" and so he has no idea how loud he’s “singing”—honestly, it ain’t anything Bucky’d categorize as singing, but there are words and they are carrying through the door. 

I wanna walk and not runI wanna skip and not fallI wanna look at the horizon and not see a building standing tallI wanna be the only one for miles and milesExcept for maybe you and your simple smile

Bucky feels a slow sly smile stretch across his face and pulls the door open. Steve’s singing a country music love song. Steve's facing away from him, wearing just a pair of boxer briefs and a loose black t-shirt. Bucky sees Steve's pants are in the sink; he must have gotten paint on them and taken them off to soak. 

Steve's got one hand wide to the side like he's balancing on a tightrope and the other is painting some kind of white accent on a flower. He makes it look so easy, light movements bringing life wherever Steve touches.

Cowboy taaaaake me awaaaaayyy

Steve caterwauls to his flowers, and Bucky can't take the suspense anymore. He waits until the paintbrush is a safe distance from the canvas, then slips his arms around Steve's slender waist and lowers his lips to Steve's neck. Steve jumps with a little shout and whirls around, dropping his paintbrush. He jerks his earbuds out. 

"You're early!" Steve gasps. He's blushing something fierce.

"Who's this cowboy you're singing about running away with, and should I be jealous?" Bucky whispers into Steve's smooth, pretty neck. He gives a small kiss. "Don't tell me I gotta fight a cowboy for your honor. I ain't much with a six-shooter, and I am kindly scared of horses."

"You're scared of horses?" Steve asks incredulously, always looking for something to direct the conversation away from his own feelings. 

"Maybe they're scared of me? Me and horses never had much opportunity to get to know each other, makes more sense to be scared of horses than chickens," Bucky says, and offers a few more kisses to Steve's neck. 

"Horses are majestic and chickens are evil,” Steve says darkly, and sighs, leaning into Bucky’s lips on his neck. “Hmm. Well, my cowboy is very handsome, you should definitely be jealous."

"Maybe I'll steal him away. I got lots of beans. Cowboys cain't resist a good bean."

"Well, my cowboy is good-looking but a bit slim in the brains department, so he might like you, actually." 

Bucky huffs a laugh into Steve's neck, and drops a few more kisses, running his mouth softly up and down Steve's neck. Steve suddenly busts out a loud laugh, which is not the reaction Bucky was going for. He'd been expecting more of Steve's little sighs. 

"What?" Bucky says in frustration, when Steve's still laughing. 

"Buh—" Steve can't hardly breathe for laughing. 

"Spit out whatever fool insult you've done come up with, then," Bucky says, a smile quirking up despite himself. Steve looks so fucking pleased, the jerk. 

"Buckaroo!" Steve manages to burst out with a wicked grin.

"Oh, hell no," Bucky says. "Nope. Absolutely not. I ain't a fucking cowboy." Steve's still laughing at him.

"That right, Buckarooooo?" he taunts. 

"I'm a hillbilly. It's different," Bucky says with a mock threat in his voice. 

"Okay, okay, so what do you have that my imaginary cowboy doesn't?" Steve smirks at him. Everything is a challenge with this guy. 

"Hmm, it's more of a show-don't-tell kinda thing," Bucky murmurs, moving back into Steve's space. "See, cowboys are all talk."

"So what are hillbillies?" Steve says, suddenly breathy, Bucky notes with satisfaction.

"Action, Stevie, we're about action."

It ain't but a second till Bucky's pulled out that sweet little sigh he wanted from Steve, and a whole symphony of pretty sounds after that.

[threadandlace]

Piano Man (Sam POV)- seamstress for the band series part four (2.3k)

I know POV’s aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, but each boy will have one VERY short POV chapter during the course of Seamstress. If y’all like it, let me know. If you hate it… I’m sorry! It’ll only be 4/15 (and a bonus 16th part to wrap our dear seamstress’ story up…)

Masterlist- to start from the beginning

Why the hell did I just wink at her, the fuck was that for? 

Danny smacked you back to reality, literally. He was whacking you lightly on the back, pulling you into him as you made your way to the stage. “I was really worried you wouldn’t make it, man,” he said, giving you his signature crooked grin. “Yeah, we were really worried that we were going to have to push the opening back, play some more tracks,” Jake said absentmindedly. You heard the final song from the pre-show playlist finish playing in the auditorium, the crowd erupting in screams and cheers. Josh jiggled as he removed his shoes, the stagehands checking his mic pack. A roadie helped you step out of your shoes as another assisted in slinging your bass over your neck. The never ending movement of people checking and plugging things in finally ended and you all nodded to each other before taking the stage. “Let’s do this gentlemen,” Jake said, beaming as he started up the steps to the stage. 

____________________________________________

The show had gone fantastically, an absolute dream of a set. You walked off stage and into the arms of your family, the six of you walking side by side down the ramp to backstage. 

“So, what’s the plan for dinner?” Josh said. “Churchill’s?” Jake threw out the suggestion to the group and everyone agreed. The family split off and headed to the restaurant to grab tables while the rest of you changed and showered. 

You made your way back to the dressing rooms and found her sitting in a chair in the hall, pencil hovered over her open sketchbook in one hand, a soft pretzel in the other. “I didn’t even know they had pretzels here,” you said as you walked by her, noticing how her hair had fallen into her eyes as she was leaned over, lost in thought. You broke her from her trance and she glanced up at you, her brain seeming to take a moment to catch up to her eyes. “Oh, yeah,” she said with a sheepish smile. “They’re new. I got kinda hungry so I did a lap around. They have some decent options.” You nodded, “yeah, we used to come to hockey games here back when we were kids.” “The corn dogs were the best!” Josh cut in, giving her a smile. Danny moved in to sit down in the chair next to her, the three of them chatting briefly about the show. “You guys probably fucking smell, leave her be. We need to get a move on,” you barked as you turned to walk down the hall to your dressing room. 

You showered quickly and ran a brush through your hair before shaking it loose. You put on the clothes that had been laid out for you, suddenly feeling very grateful for the crew that helped keep everything running smoothly. You turned off the bathroom light and threw your towel onto the counter after running it through your hair one last time.

You fixed yourself a shot and threw it back before mixing yourself a drink. You swirled the liquid, watching the ice cubes rattle against the plastic cup. So much money and we can’t even get real glasses? You gathered your book bag up and headed out to the hall, knowing a roadie would collect everything from your dressing room and your clothes from earlier in the day would end up on your bus, laundered and folded. 

She was still sitting in the same chair, although she was now engrossed in an actual sewing project. You watched her for a moment as you sunk into a chair across from her. Her brows were furrowed as she expertly moved the needle through the fabric, attaching some sort of embellishment to what appeared to be a shirt. “You work pretty damn fast,” you said softly, breaking the silence. She glanced up at you, her face relaxing as she shifted her focus from her work. “Twenty years will do that,” she answered, giving you a smile. 

A worker from the venue approached her and asked her a question about wardrobe. You zoned out of their conversation as they talked. You watched the way she leaned in and explained whatever she was talking about, gesturing the entire time before sitting back and laughing, the worker giving her a thumbs up and walking down the hall towards the dressing rooms. She smiled to herself as she returned to attaching the lacy thing to the shirt. 

“Do you want a drink?” you asked her, realizing your cup was now empty. “I’m okay, I don’t think I am supposed to really drink when I end up taking the pain meds I’m on,” she said, never looking up from her work as she answered you casually. You felt your chest squeeze as your eyes fell onto the still slightly black eye she had that she’d clearly covered with makeup. The cut on her cheek was still red and angry, and, you were sure, painful. You nodded and headed to the closest dressing room to make yourself another drink.

You knocked on Danny’s door and entered. He was bent over, a towel around his waist as he put products in his hair. He straightened and looked at you in the mirror. “You good?” he asked, continuing to twirl some pieces of his hair as he turned to face you. You had turned your back to him to stand over the liquor and mixers in the corner, but you heard him start to pull his clothes on. “You want a drink?” you asked over your shoulder. “Nah, I’m okay for now.” You nodded and turned, taking a sip of your drink. He was watching you as you drank. “What?” you blurted, gesturing at him with your drink. “You seem… off,” Danny replied before sitting in a leatherback chair, reaching for his socks. “I’m fine. I’m tired,” you shot back, taking another sip. “Yeah, okay. How many years together and you still think you can lie to me?” Danny said as he slipped on one of his shoes. He sat back to catch your eyes before tying it. 

“Josh said you had a panic attack. Is that true?” You shook your head, your face growing warm with irritation. “I did not. I was fine, it was just annoying to be stuck in a dark ass elevator,” you spat back, ignoring his worried glances. “Okay, we don’t have to talk about it,” Danny replied as he bent to tie his shoe. “I really don’t know why it had to be your grumpy ass stuck in that elevator with her. From now on, I’m riding in the elevators with her,” he said, giving you a playful smile.

 You nearly choked on your drink. “What?” you asked. “What? It’s no secret I think she’s gorgeous. Smart and artistic too. What’s not to like? I guess unless you’re you and you smacked her in the eye with your stupid phone and have been constantly rude to her. And are still stuck on some girl who was no good for you and…” You cut him off, “you’re one to talk. At least we were the same age.” Danny stopped what he was doing, frozen. 

You’d gone too far, but it was too late to turn back now. “Whatever. We both have baggage, it’s fine. So, are you going to fuck her or what?” you asked. He shook his head before looking up at you. “Not everything is about that,” he cracked back at you. “Don’t you go soft on me now, Danny boy. Starting to sound like Josh, wanting a spiritual connection and shit. It’s not fucking worth it.” 

“Sound like me about what?” Josh said as he walked into the room, Jake close behind him. “Oh, Danny just has a little crush,” you sneered, laughing as you finished the rest of your drink. Danny rolled his eyes. Hearing Josh say her name made your blood boil for some reason. Danny nodded and Josh shrugged, “I get it.” “Not you too,” Danny said, giving Josh a playful shove. “Oh no, I don’t have time for any of that, too much going on,” Josh said, shaking his head and waving his arms. He was probably feeling the three shots he took on stage along with the adrenaline rush wearing off. “Shall we go?” Jake asked, edging closer to the door. You all nodded and walked out towards the back of the venue.

“Hey, you coming to dinner? You’re definitely invited,” Danny said, leaning down to rest his hand on her shoulder. She jumped slightly at the contact before turning to face him and smiling. 

You always need to talk to her before you touch her, she’s jumpy as hell. Come on, Danny. 

“No, I am going to go get on the bus and clean everything and get it put away. I need to finish altering Sam’s suit for tomorrow and I’d like to get some rest tonight,” she answered as she started to gather her things. “I think they moved all of our stuff off of your bus, so you should have your tranquil workspace back,” Josh joked as he reached forward to hand her the journal she had left on the table. She took it from him and gave him a warm smile. You cleared your throat. “Shall we head out?” you asked, pointing towards the exit. You all told her goodbye and headed on your way. 

____________________________________________

Dinner had felt comfortable, familiar even. Yet you couldn’t shake this feeling of general annoyance, especially with Danny. The way the whole table laughed when he told a joke, how your mom made sure to always include him in any story, the way he texted her to see if she wanted anything from the restaurant. You knew it was ridiculous. You didn’t want a relationship. Especially not with her, she wasn’t even your type. 

You had another couple of drinks before the tab was closed out. Telling your family good-bye was bittersweet. You always missed your parents and your sister, but you were constantly reminded how lucky you were to have your older brothers along with you for this ride. Even if they could be generally irritating, the way siblings were. 

The ride back to the venue was quiet. Everyone was exhausted and pleasantly buzzed. You all collectively walked towards the wardrobe bus, almost unconsciously. Albert greeted you as he opened the doors and you all climbed on. 

She stood, leaned over a laid out back of a suit jacket, drawing on the fabric with what looked like chalk. Her eyes snapped up and she straightened, giving the group a warm smile. “We wanted to check in with you before we started on our separate, yet identical journeys,” Josh said, gesturing wildly as he spoke, nearly taking her water bottle clear off the edge of the table. He was clearly drunk, speaking in what you called his ‘bad poetry tongue.’ You snickered and Jake shot you a look. 

“Oh, yeah, I’m good! Ready to roll! Oh, Sam…” your ears pricked at the sound of your name leaving her mouth and you looked up and worked to focus on her. “... I finished taking in your jacket, so I’ll need you to try it on in the morning. I’ll actually need all of you guys to try on your stuff if possible. So I have enough time to make any adjustments.” You all nodded. “Of course, we can’t wait to see everything,” Danny said and you rolled your eyes. Damn, lover boy. Laying it on thick. The look of appreciation she gave him made your stomach flip. You broke the silence. “Well, good night. We will see you in Pennsylvania ,” you grunted as you turned to head off of the bus. Josh gave you a weird look but the rest of the group gave their good nights and followed you off of the bus. 

“Shit, I left my phone,” you mumbled before turning to walk back up the stairs to the bus. Albert was watching something on his phone and paid you no attention as you walked back to the large table in the middle of the bus. “You okay?” she asked you, her eyes searching your face. “Oh, uh, yeah. I forgot my phone,” you replied, reaching to grab it off of the table. She reached forward and placed her hand on yours, sending electricity zapping up your arm. She stood up and walked around the table to stand next to you. “I wanted to make sure you were okay. I know today was pretty stressful. And you had a panic attack,” she continued, squeezing your hand. 

Something about the way she was so concerned for you despite how much of a dick you’d been and the alcohol in your system pushed you forward. You placed a hand on her waist and pulled her into you. You leaned in and gently pressed your lips onto hers. She was tense at first but slowly relaxed into you. She pulled away suddenly, her wide eyes searching yours. “Sam, I uh…” she stammered, taking a step back. You released your hand from her waist as she moved, allowing her to move further away. She pushed her hair back from her face and took a deep breath before looking up at you. The look on her face told you all you needed to know- she was not interested. You held up your hands and took an unsteady step backwards. “Sorry, just forget about it,” you said, giving her a nod before turning and walking back off the bus.

You had just royally fucked up.

Taglist: @radmads-gvf @eyelinerjake

Let me know if you'd like to be added to the taglist! <3

[navysealt4t]

🎵 for jay

SCREAMING. yesyes JAY i love herr.

ok. i will die on this hill flight risk by tommy lefroy is sooo god damn jay <3333

ough. she tried to leave chip and gill because their safety was more important than her happiness. she’s willing to give herself up and go back to a life she hates. for them. and she doesn’t open up she won’t open up because she can’t. and she’s a flight risk. she was a spy she was meant to betray them and work for the navy…. and her just BEING with her crew is endangering tham all because everyone knows the ferins. <333

ALSO ALSO I HAVE TO INCLUDE 2 SONGS bird song by florence + the machines ok hear me out

she tries to suffocate her problems make them disappear and . lots of her problems are enteral they come from HER. (unreliable narrator stuff) she isn’t “brave” enough to stand up to her family she isn’t strong enough to defeat her father she isn’t good enough for her crew. just man. also i feel like her dream with the sun and how it burned her when she got closer. has some ties to this. <333

but GOD I LOVE JAY here’s a link to my jay playlist <3333

[lunaastoir]

fluff/relationships w the liyue crew

characters included: xiao, childe, beidou, and zhongli

ik i forgot ningguang i promise i’ll include her in part 2, i just didn’t have time :(

all x a gn! reader 

my liyue babies :,) ft. ningguang in spirit

an: i was listening to my soft playlist (more like listening to cupid’s chokehold on repeat, no i am not basic 🔪) and i thought some fluff headcanons would be cute w these sweet people

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

xiao

ok so no surprise that he hates liyue harbor

he hates anything w a lot of people in it so he prefers to stay at wangshu inn tyvm

but by contrast, you love liyue harbor sm (it’s gorgeous i mean c’mON)

you go there often to retrieve your commissions in order to stay closer to xiao (liyue harbor is closer than mondstadt he argues but you’re well aware that they’re both equally far away)

so if anyone asked, xiao would absolutely refuse to go to the harbor like i hate people??? why would you even ask???

but,,,he’s so sOFT for you

if you asked??? he would agree in a heartbeat

but since he’s >:( angsty boy, he makes you think that he won’t go even when he’s already decided that he’s coming w you

he puts up the “if you so require, then i guess i will assist you with your travels in liyue harbor” but in reality he would definitely have said yes even without the almond tofu

while he hates the harbor, he thinks that with you anything is bearable :,) simp

you take him to see xinyan to vibe w her music and you can tell he really enjoys it

even tho he’s like 🕴 the entire time, you see the softer look on his face and the very slight smile on his lips as he listens to the music and watches the crowd

so so so cute very soft for him

i do see him as a subtly touchy person in public like brushing the hair off your face, swiping his thumb across your cheek, or gently pulling your hair back when you have a plate of food in your hands 

the type to link your pinkies together - he claims it’s so you don’t get lost but yk better 

after the concert is done you take him to that one waypoint near mt. tianheng and the both of you just watch the city lights and the way they reflect beautifully on the water surrounding the harbor 

personal headcanon that xiao absolutely loves stargazing since he believes the stars are the one true constant in his life especially since he’s experienced so much loss (basically they’ll never leave him god i hate myself why do i make everything SAD)

mini headcanon off of that - he doesn’t stargaze with people,,, like ever 

it’s something he loves to do alone so the fact that he lets you stargaze w him and even allows you to shift your head onto his lap while you watch the sky is a huge deal 

he loves it when you softly whisper abt how your day was or something you saw that made you laugh 

he just loves hearing your voice, it automatically calms the voices in his head 

you absolutely ADORE when he has flowers in his hair especially cecilias (cecillias? ceccillias? idfk) and you make a point whenever you go to mondstadt to pick a fresh batch of cecilias just for xiao while enlisting the help of your favorite bard  

these soft moments on the mountain are usually when you’ll sweetly tuck in a flower or two in his hair while laughing 

he’ll blush fiercely while looking away but will tuck the cecilias in securely as you’re unable to do so due to the position you’re in on his lap

all in all - this was not meant to come out as a date idea but we’re going w it 

this is so cute xiao pls let me put flowers in your hair sweet boy <3

childe

god, loml, my favorite war criminal after eren yeager 

there’s never a dull moment w this man - if you wanted peace and quiet, why the hell are you dating him bestie???

is the type of person to yell out “Y/N, i can’t believe i ran into you here!” if he sees you somewhere even tho you explicitly told him you were going to be here in the morning (ik you have a good memory ajax don’t lie to me 😐)

i don’t see him as being obnoxious w pda unlike someone else kaeya but he would definitely participate (think: handholding, cheek kisses, an arm around your shoulders)

loves it when he comes home and sees you in an apron cooking 

domesticity just makes his heart melt so you can be sure that your face will be peppered w a lot of kisses afterwards <3 

absolutely ADORES it when you trace his scars absentmindedly when you’re lying down or even when you’re having dinner in public  

he’s been far from his family for so long that small acts of mindless affection like this really make his heart happy 

you have him drunk on your love luv haha see what i did there 

he will let you put makeup on him. no i do not take criticism ⛄️

he already has on lowkey thick eyeliner,,, don’t be shy put some more bestie 

he will shamelessly go out in public w whatever you made him wear - doesn’t really give a shit even tho he has a reputation to maintain 

speaking of reputation,,, yk his mask? yeah that one - the red hair accessory that he has on his head

well on the mask, he attached a little charm the both of you got together on your first date during lantern rite 

it’s this adorable fox that we all shamelessly kill for meat and he placed it so it anchored to the side of his mask so when he fights it isn’t a nuisance or anything (does that make sense??? i hope it does) 

his subordinates notice and while they’re stoic around childe, behind closed doors they do whisper abt the mysterious person who’s captured his heart 

not so mysterious anymore when they literally see him cling onto you during his daily patrol around the harbor 💀

it’s ok tho he’s lucky he’s cute 

bestie,,, pls give him a neck massage 

i just KNOW he’s tense there idk something abt the way he carries himself just screams “my neck hurts so bad someone pls help me i would ask but my pride literally will not let me”

so give him a neck massage :) don’t worry tho he’ll definitely return the favor and then some

LOVES TICKLE FIGHTS 

he’s obsessed w them,,, it’s just the faces you make??? he can’t get enough 

he loves seeing the pure joy and the brief fear (he’s kind of a sadist) in your eyes before he attacks you w those damned hands 

it reminds him a lot of simpler times w his siblings and he’s happy he brings you joy and makes you forget your worries - at least for a little while 

all in all, he’s a good boy and no i will not tolerate childe slander 🔪 kaeya slander tho 😏

beidou

you pulled beidou??? wow everyone’s jealous (pulled as in literally from the banner and in this context but no i do not have beidou and no i definitely do not want to talk abt it)

god made beidou and zhongli just so all of us could have a sexuality crisis 

anyways, being w her is hard i will not lie 

not bc she isn’t a capable lover - no, quite the contrary 

she’s an amazing partner but the problem here lies in the fact that she’s almost never on land 

it’s hard working a long distance relationship but y’all love each other so it works out :,) 

when she is physically present however, expect to never be bored 

she’ll quietly fix the wrinkles on your shirt or fiddle with your fingers in her hands while she recounts her adventures out on sea 

she sometimes gets worried she bores you, however the way your eyes light up every time she tells a tale always reassures her otherwise

definitely the type to let you use her claymore if you want to learn 

she’ll provide useful tips as she tucks her hands into your sides gently, positioning you correctly so you don’t hurt yourself 

miss girl is an AMAZING cook 

i just know she cooks the best meals - i mean she’s friends w xiangling after all 

whenever she comes home from a voyage she’ll always insist on making something for you even if she’s abt to pass out 

pls tuck her into bed and promise her that she can make you something in the morning <3 the poor woman needs rest 

brings you back trinkets but they’re actually very practical 

she knows you won’t have much use for a simple charm (not that there’s anything wrong w that) but she believes you’ll like something practical more so she might get you a new engraved knife from the most recent place she’s been to 

definitely the type to surprise you when she docks 

i can imagine her anchoring her ship out a little ways from liyue harbor and rowing to the dock in order to make sure you aren’t alerted of her presence (i’m sorry the mental picture this made in my mind is SENDING ME INTO ORBIT but she means well i love you)

will take you to remote spots she’s found in her travels through liyue 

for example - the little heart shaped island and the island quest (?) that you had to use kaeya the bridge maker for in order to get to im sorry i’ll stop w the kaeya slander

she’ll get you seashell bracelets or necklaces idk why but she gives me those vIBES 

they’re super nice ones too, only the highest quality for you 

yes she’s a bruh girl but i also see her as someone who would enjoy intimate moments like watching the sunset or something 

“yo wanna catch the sunset, i heard it looks sick from the jade chamber” said before ahem it yk fell from the sky

kasdjksfashfjsahf yes ofc i would love to catch the sunset w you pls come home luv

anyways, she is a woman i would give the world for 

zhongli

ok gimme a sec i need to get my gentleman mode on 

this man,,, THIS MAN 

everything w him is so soft like your entire eXISTENCE w him could go in a museum it’s that beautiful 

in the morning when he visits you, he always brings you a cup of your favorite tea and a bouquet of glaze lilies he got from madame ping

holds the door for you, pushes the chair out for you, uses a napkin and brushes sauce off your lips when you’re eating - you name something sweet, he’s done it

secretly loves it when you fuss over him 

he doesn’t like to fight but say he encountered a group of hillichurls he couldn’t avoid and promptly defeated them but ended up tearing a part of his tux(?) (is it a tux? i could not tell you)

not that big of a deal, i mean it’s a scratch, he’s a 6,000 year old god, he’s dealt w much worse 

but seeing the worried crease in your brows as you usher him to sit at the table while quickly grabbing antiseptic to clean his wound

“it’s just a scratch, my dear. do not worry i’ve dealt with much worse.”

you quietly protest abt how “yes zhongli, i understand you’re an archon and have gotten worse injuries but i’m worried about infection just please let me take care of you ok? <3″ 

when you say that he feels weird emotions,,, wdym take care of him? 

he’s always taken care of himself or been expected to take care of others as the former ruling deity of liyue so having someone else genuinely worry abt his wellbeing creates a warm feeling in his chest 

he strikes me as the type to knit you something??? idk maybe it’s the grandpa vibes but i headcanon that he would knit you a scarf for the colder weather, it’s cute 

in the privacy of your home, he really likes picking you up

he loves it when you wrap your legs around his middle while he gets up to go do the dishes or smthg 

domesticity go brrrr

if you’re into making flower crowns, he would totally have you on his lap and wordlessly hand you a glaze lily whenever you expectantly hold your hand out while weaving the flowers together 

he expects you to make the crown for yourself but when you place the crown on his head and it fits perfectly while simultaneously tucking a glaze lily behind your ear, he looks at you dumbstruck 

his mouth parts open in awe and it’s quite literally the cutest thing

you’ve broken him 

thinks it’s the sweetest thing - will keep it on his head for the whole day 

he’ll even put it in water before he sleeps so it won’t wilt and he can wear it the next day <3 

scenic picnics!! scenic picnics!! 

the type to take you to the nicest spots in liyue to chat abt the history of the land w you over a cup of tea and your favorite food (whatever you like, he doesn’t mind)

recounts the people he’s met in his long life before finishing off by saying you’re by far the best person he’s met 

zhongli strangles lovingly come home soon 

thanks for reading! if you have any requests don’t hesitate to send them in <3 

[moonlit-mizukage]

Summary: Y/l/n Y/n, a third year at Sakura High School, is just a girl with a bad attitude towards anyone outside her small circle. When y/n’s younger sister starts first year, she gains a lot of attention. Unfortunately for everyone in school, the Y/l/n household has one rule, No dating till y/n does. Some people become just desperate enough to pay the leader of the “Monsters”, the trouble making group on campus, to date y/n. What will happen when she finds out? (All characters aged up to third year unless otherwise stated)

Paring: Tendou Satori x F!reader 

Warnings: Swearing, drama aka “pot stirring”, angst, smoking, Sexual jokes, reckless behaviour, lies, mentions of cheating, vaping, mentions of violence, blood, aggressive behavior, smoking, actual violence

Disclaimer: I do not own any haikyuu characters or art used in the smau unless otherwise stated! This is roughly based of a film called 10 things I hate about you with twists and turns to make it different 🖤 This is also an AU, so not everyone plays volleyball. 

Format: smau and written!

Updates: COMPLETED!!

Fanmade Playlist: Peep this amazing playlist made by @atria-avior !! It’s so good and I love she put so much time into making this for my story and the edit for the list even 😭🖤✨ Original Post here 

Introductions Y/n and crew | Popular Kids | The Monsters | Intro Texts

Chapter one: Feeling the love tsuki 

Chapter two: Yams don’t play into her 

Chapter three: Ominous tweet why??? 

Chapter four: The Deal

Chapter five:  Pleasure doing business with you

Chapter six: Disgusting ass chicken tendy looking man

Chapter seven: Gucci is so excited its adorable

Chapter eight: Party 

Chapter nine: Fucking Toasted Bro 

Chapter ten: Sugawara

Chapter eleven: Sukoshi mart meet up

Chapter twelve: No it’s perfect

Chapter thirteen: The Truth 

Chapter fourteen: YEAH I JUST FELL OFF MY CHAIR EXPLAIN YOURSELF

Chapter fifteen: 1am Joyride

Chapter sixteen: He’s right dude. she’s hot 

Chapter seventeen: Twin Day 

Chapter eighteen: $250 for a corsage???

Chapter nineteen: Pre Lit 

Chapter twenty: The Dance 

Chapter twenty one: Go to hell

Chapter twenty-two: 11 things I hate about you

Chapter twenty three: The truth reveled

Chapter twenty four: Leave Shirabu alone

Chapter twenty five: Yams the real one

Chapter twenty six: YES SIR

Chapter twenty seven: It's Not a Fashion Statement, It's a Fucking Deathwish

Chapter twenty eight: He barked ????

Chapter twenty nine: 11 things I love about you

Chapter thirty: Damn Y/n get it! 

Epilogue: The New Beginning 

Sequel: Famous Last Words

Taglist: @belongtothewcrld @elianetsantana @its-the-aerieljeane @london-quynh @vhskenma @denkithunder @swagdaddycam @ems1des @tendouispretty @senpaisbadass @elephantloser @smolbbgorl @mikeys-thighs @kuroolilchibichan @softesyoongi @ouijaeater15 @xxsilverwingxx @prettyinblack231 @kookie-doughs  @mikesdeath @bruh-kill-me @skeet-skeet-double-fckn-yeet @d0llpie @0-hysteria-0 @katsumi-sumi @rintarawr @sirachano0dles  @satan-ruler-of-hells @himboos @maer-333 @pastel-prynce @tanakasimpcorner @atria-avior @thisnoodlewritesao3 @hard-to-get-by-just-upon-smile @putmeinyourdeathnote @babyshoyo

[steve0discusses]

S5 Ep 3: Apdnarg is Really Hard to Spell

 Yo guys, people are getting vaccinated, the sun is parting through the clouds, and I felt so nice that I even stopped listening to quite so many throwback 00′s BTS mashups (and yet I keep clicking on these dissonant catastrophes thinking “this time it’s got to be better. This time they’ll figure it out.” and like, no. Turns out you can’t match Brittany’s Toxic with BTS’ Black Swan. You can’t do that.)

This must be a sign that things are getting better. If anything, it means my personal tastes are improving. I mean I only clicked on like 3 “Dark Academia” Playlists where I could pretend I’m some sort of spooky witch in an abandoned library with a bad music player and basic taste in classical music (like can we ban Satie from Youtube for a little while?). Hell, I might even do a prompt update to this blog!

Yeah, you heard me, I’m actually going to stay ahead of the update schedule for Yugioh Abridged (maybe. I haven’t actually watched cuz of spoilers, I just noticed the thumbnail pop up on Youtube and was like “Damn it, they came out of hiatus??? I got hurry UP.”)

Anyway, speaking of the sky parting.

I’ll have you know my bro said this is actually more like a circumcision and it was one of the worst thing I have ever heard.

We get a chance to take in this lineup of confusing and varied character designs, and Joey. who is...still Joey.

The animators probably had to hold a strike in order for them to put Yugi in the audience, lets be real. There are TOO MANY PEOPLE in this shot and one is wearing a turban where you draw every single wrap. I hope those artists charged by the line.

Tea has a subplot where she’s just very frustrated with everyone she knows. They have been traveling together for like many weeks and got trapped in a foreign country so I get it. But at the same time, it’s kind of hard to picture Tea with female friends.

Because right now you got this 12 year old child, the other duelist who does not care about anything besides cards, and Kaiba’s 3 dragon cards that we’ve all collectively decided are female.

Hell it’s almost like the writers are asking themselves why Tea is here. Maybe they forgot. There’s no more ghosts to bus, no more people to knock out with her ass with random Olympic feats. Tea’s just sidelining.

(read more under the cut)

Mokuba is a itty bit bit taller this season, and so I guess that means he can legally climb on top of the cherry picker in order to give a riveting speech.

Really says a lot about Mokuba that he is so unphased about talking to, I dunno...an entire planet of people. Kind of a shame we never see this courage from Mokuba used for anything other than talking really, really big and giving everyone around him a really hard time.

Mokuba takes a moment to dunk on Yugi Muto, as is Kaiba tradition.

And then introduce the first pair of duelists, which obviously must be between the few people in this tournament that we actually know and care about.

Thankfully, in between last episode and this episode, Yugi has figured out who his own Grandpa is. This is a relief, because Yugi is such a mess, that I was fully convinced it would take over half a season for him to recognize it. I mean how long did it take him to figure out he shares a body with a ghost? Like half a season?

Instead Yugi recovered gracefully from not recognizing his grandpa, but it’s not like he bothered to tell anyone else, so the rest of our cast is just gonna be like “Is he my hairdresser? The guy who delivers my mail? Who is this guy who made absolutely no significant changes to his outfit or voice?”

Like sometimes this show goes full Spongebob silly kid’s show and you never know when to take it seriously or not. They might be sacrificing the entire cast next episode. I really don’t know. But for now their big concern is who is grandpa??? Like an innocent card version of “Are you my Mother?”

Faced with public speaking, Yugi decides to have a melt down.

We have seen him face monsters, we’ve seen him on TV dozens of times, he’s been in multiple competitions...but give a speech? Of course he can’t do that. The kid doesn’t attend enough school to know how to do that. Them’s learning skills.

And that was when a newly assembled wife-jet spliced through the sky like a souped up razer scooter and deposited 1 fully equipped Seto Kaiba in a Buzz Lightyear jetsuit.

THE RECOVERY.

Seto always watching over his Brother, ready to save this awkward party if it kills him (and it really should, that suit is held together by two seat-belts), making sure to get on that platform before Yugi starts going off about how he’s half an Ancient Egyptian. (Ah, life before social media. You could just be hella famous and also half a dead dude and people would just not know. I kinda miss the time before I knew literally everything about everyone.)

Please admire how close those flames are to setting Mokuba’s heavily hairsprayed mane completely alight. It would be an unforgettable spectacle.

These were absolutely just random ass jet packs that Gozaburo Kaiba made to kill hell tons of people, right? Like Seto found it in the family cabin, clutched to the heart of some crispy fried corpse and was like “neat! Mokuba! I found a cool toy!” and just plucked that thing out of that skeleton’s clutches and has been flying around for months?

Like this is Seto Kaiba’s Butter Glider, right?

Seriously what type of vehicle license do you need for one of these things? RIP My ‘Seto only has a scooter license’ headcanon.

Which I’m only even thinking about because I’ve had to try and make an appt with the DMV for days to get a freakin REAL ID. I went to sleep in 2019 and I could fly on a plane. I woke up in 2021 and it’s like “Want one last screw you?” and just...can 2020 please stop screwing me over? It’s March.

Anyway, the Jet is removed soon after, so no, this is not part of his new outfit. He goes right back to his Post-S4-Trauma-Normcore.

After wrestling this competition out of his brother’s hands and confusing everyone in the audience, Roland must have gotten the memo to cut the microphone before Seto got too excited and we were quickly ushered on to the next stage of the tournament.

One sec...the BTS Mashup playlist I just clicked on did a Black Swan X 7 rings mashup and it’s the worst thing my ears have ever heard.

Holy crap. I had to actually turn down my volume. Like...Ariana Grande already has music that has way too many overlapping singing parts on it--and then lets just stick a 52-person boy band on top? That’ll fix it. Yeah. Go ahead.

Wow. Even I had to change the song and you know how much I enjoy pop culture mistakes.

Spot the Mickey but like a million times easier because it’s a Massive Dick Shaped Dragon.

Yep. That’s my grocery shopping outfit. Except maybe not a lab coat and a duel disk. Wish I had a duel disk, that would make social distancing just a hell ton earlier. Just a “Yo, only one person in checkout, please” and then bap them on the head with a propelled discuss/hologram.

Anyway, Grocery shopping/Doctor man dueled the Purple Hair Boy, and considering that Purple Hair got screen time and shook Yugi’s hand once--I think that Doctor man doesn’t stand a freakin chance.

Good. I hate him.

Also, every time he breathes he’s gonna fog up his glasses. I have experience in this area. He can’t read his own cards in the same way I can’t read my phone if I’m in the refrigerated aisle.

So the way this tournament works, is everyone has to sit in the stadium to watch the show. Kinda like showing up to a football stadium just to watch a recorded TV monitor...but then again...that is how it feels to watch a football game at a football stadium when it’s live (at least with the tickets I usually get.)

And as we watch Grandpa waiting for his competitor, we find out that his competitor (Joey) is too busy eating snacks to give him the time of day.

Why do cartoon hot dogs always have lettuce? Is that seriously supposed to be relish? Or is there a place in the world where you put lettuce on your hot dog?

Sorry, bro has just informed of his favorite hot dog order, which is absolutely terrible so I will share it with you: a Five Guys hot dog with ketchup, mustard, pickle relish, onions, mushrooms, pickled peppers, and you guessed it--topped with freakin lettuce.

My own kin. How am I over 30 and just finding out that my baby brother thinks it’s normal to walk into a restaurant with normal god-fearing law-abiding people and order lettuce and mushrooms on a hot dog?

I have fully failed him.

The rest of this episode is watching both Joey Wheeler and Mokuba have a shared panic attack while Seto does freakin nothing.

Please remember that Seto has both a jetpack and a dragon wife plane and could have easily solved this problem. But nah.

Then again, Seto Kaiba has given this crew so MANY rides, that maybe he’s tired of being the Soccer Mom for the team?

Like they don’t actually say this episode, but Seto was the one in charge of like...this entire place, do you think he made the 2 for 1 special just to get Joey where it hurts the most? Or does it actually not take any subterfuge to screw Joey Wheeler because he’s just naturally this way?

Like Mokuba wasn’t there when Joey was told “stay right here, and then we will all go together to fight Dartz” and Joey was like “I’mma save Mai from herself although she told me not to!” and then he Hella Died. But, Mokuba did see the result, AKA, Joey’s dead body being carried on the back of Tristan. Maybe Mokuba never realized that Joey died because he went out of his way to be late?

Lets do a tally of every time I can recall with my dodgy memory that Joey was threatened to be DQ’d/pretty much was DQ’d either by his own fault or no fault of his own

-When he wasn’t allowed to go on the boat to Murder Island because he was a stupid nobody kid who did not have a dueling glove

-When he wasn’t actually supposed to be in Pegasus’ tourney and was, in fact, secretly using half of Yugi’s entrance ticket the entire time

-when Bandit Keith stole the ticket that Joey got from Yugi so then Joey had to borrow Mai’s ticket although she had just used it so it really shouldn't have counted. Because, really anyone could have just piggy backed off of each other’s ticket until the whole boat went through that castle.

-When his account was hacked to get entered into Kaiba’s tourney when Kaiba very clearly told him he could not apply solely because he was Joey Wheeler.

-When he was late to his sister’s eye surgery because he got mugged by Marik’s Rare Hunters, so she almost refused to do the surgery.

-When Joey got possessed by Marik, and as Marik, threatened to murder everyone else in the tournament including both of the Kaiba brother’s who’s tournament it was, and then chained himself to Yugi Muto to throw both of them to the bottom of the ocean.

-I think there was a point when he threatened to attack Kaiba in Kaiba’s own tourney while not possessed? Like several times?

-when he got struck by Lightning and almost did not stand up fast enough after being struck by lightning, which is apparently a type of DQ in Duel Monsters.

-When he tried to save Mai from getting hit by a fireball, but then Yugi did it instead, and then so many people were standing on the dueling platform that Kaiba couldn’t possibly DQ them all.

-When he entered the restricted area of the blimp in order to hassle Kaiba into landing the Blimp, which Kaiba did not do.

-When Marik killed Joey before Joey could press the “go” button on his duel disk to play the card that should have won Joey the match.

-When he was dueling a lawyer in a digital universe but then the dice was like...weighted? So Noah had to walk over and be like “The hell is this weighted dice? This is my perfect digital world? How did you even do that?” and then Joey won because the match was no longer legit.

-When Joey yelled at Noah too much and so Noah turned Joey to stone for being a rude ass spectator

-When Mai was like “Wheeler and Valon, listen closely: do NOT murder each other” and then Joey did a murder on Valon so she was like “I guess I have no choice, I was very clear” and killed Joey straight up.

-When Joey decided to block Seto’s fireballs while Joey Wheeler WAS a playing card, somehow disrespecting both Dartz and Seto Kaiba at the same time.

-When Joey was playing cards but then got absorbed into a giant Leviathan and basically couldn’t play anymore after that.

-There’s probably hell ton of S0 stuff I just haven’t seen yet.

-This episode

And Joey runs fast for a montage of wacky things that really have no business being in a theme park. Things like this:

(remember when Bakura almost died from a rock that ended up being a balloon? It comes full circle.)

The stuff that the Kaiba brother’s think is normal and fun.

Anyway Joey fights off a bunch of hologram snakes and bats and everyone is like “Should we tell him it’s just holograms???” And it’s like wow, guys, how many times have these ‘holograms’ straight up murdered Joey Wheeler and everyone else on this cast? Too many? Because I have a google doc with so many deaths on it. 7,805,844,048, to be exact.

Anyway, he gets there with five seconds to spare and Mokuba’s like “well at least you were still entertaining while we filmed you in front of a live audience being a total spaz for 15 minutes straight, so I’ll let you go.”

Grandpa and Joey start playing, Joey completely oblivious that this is just an older Muto, while Hawkins walks up awkwardly and is like “hey guys. I’m so sorry about this.”

(welcome to my font choices, for those new here, I have to make weird font color choices to make sure it’s legible for the colorblind and also for the non-colorblind. This one is not much contrast, so I may change it up in the future, but for now, this is Grandpa Muto’s new font. I apologize to every graphic designer reading this. Please don’t tell anyone who has ever hired me for graphic design about this blog.)

What’s funny about this exchange is that after they find out that Yugi’s Grandpa is Apdnarg (HOLY my brain cannot get around the spelling for that, and I will not change it in the caps. I cannot do a ‘pdn’ ever again), they don’t stand on his side of the field or anything. Hawkins is legit Solomon Muto’s only fan during this exchange and like...damn. Way not to back your Grandpa, Yugi.

Yugi immediately strides up to Mokuba to non-confrontation-ally inform him that he has stepped over a line and Mokuba is like “what are these things you say called ‘lines?’”

According to Mokuba, Solomon Muto begged him to be in the competition so he could relive his glory days (glory days making no sense here, because the game has only been released for the past 15 years, so glory days is like...the before times that can only be referring to disgraced archeologists and Pegasus ((who is, in his own way...a disgraced archeologist, too))) and Mokuba was like

“You trained Yugi Muto, right? Hey that’s good enough for me. This drama is gold. People will eat it up. Hell yes. Don’t be afraid to abduct him a little bit. Maybe trap a couple people in a digital hellscape for a little while? Now we go by Pegasus house rules here, so fire as many lasers as you want, but just make sure not to hit anyone in the face. Oh man, we are going to be swimming in cash. Love it, Muto Sr, love it.”

But I dunno, I feel like Grandpa won’t make it past next episode. It is Joey. We kinda need him to make it past Ep 4 of the arc. If Grandpa Muto becomes the new Joey Wheeler, that will be a weird transition for this show to make.

But that’s all for today, as always, here is the link to read these in chrono order becuase there’s SO MANY that you don’t need to read backwards--don’t do it--just use the chrono tag (and I don’t know if you can add compound tags, but I did separate the Season from the Episode, so if you write S4, it should only pop up stuff from S4. I didn't’ do that to seasons 1-3 though because I just...didn’t.)

https://steve0discusses.tumblr.com/tagged/yugioh/chrono

And because I brought it up: here it is, the best BTS Mashup that I found on my deep dive. Like legit--this one isn’t a mess:

Most of other ones are horrible in a fascinating way. Like I’m not even a BTS fan, I think I sort of age out of that metric, I’m just bored and quarantined. And lets be real, we all appreciate a good bop when we hear it.

[saylors-universe]

All Hands on Deck, five

Rowaelin Cruise Vacation AU

masterlist here

word count: 5234

[This is an interactive story! I will include Authorʻs Notes throughout the chapters to inform you when to start a particular song that you can find here in the All Hands on Deck playlist (Also can be found on the masterlist). For the best experience, listen with headphones, AND FOLLOW ALONG WITH THE STORY. Please try to use your imagination when listening and reading - live through the words. Have fun :) - Saylor]

-

This week has been HELL. Sorry for the late upload :( Anyways, enjoy the chapter, thanks for reading <3

-

Day 4 - AT SEA - “Todays Cruise Activity: SCAVENGER HUNT from 1-3, Find an activities staff for more info!”

-    Aelin wakes in a soft, ivory, long-sleeve undershirt, light blue dress with a matching white apron. Confused by her attire, she finds two large books in her embrace, like she had cuddled with them in her sleep.      -

[A.N.] Play “Beauty and the Beast Medley” by BYU Vocal Point feat. Lexi Walker now, follow along, and let your imagination put on a show. Find playlist here.

-    Recognizing that sheʻs alone in her dark cabin, she leaves her room and notices no one in the dim, candle-lit hallway. She searches for any sign of life throughout the corridors, navigating through the different levels until she appears in front of the bakery, responsible for divulging her deep cravings of chocolates and treats.     -

Aelin:      LITTLE TOWN, ITʻS A QUIET VILLAGE

               EVERYDAY LIKE THE ONE BEFORE

               LITTLE TOWN, FULL OF LITTLE PEOPLE

               WAKING UP TO SAY

-    Suddenly, as if on cue, a parade of crew and staff appear in a flash mob.  -

Cruise Staff:          BON JOUR,  BON JOUR

-     A baker stands behind the counter, kneading dough.   -

                         BON JOUR, BON JOUR, BON JOUR

Aelin:     THERE GOES THE BAKER WITH HIS TRAY LIKE ALWAYS

               THE SAME OLD BREAD AND ROLLS TO SELL

               EVERY MORNING JUST THE SAME

               SINCE THE MORNING THAT WE CAME 

               TO THIS POOR PROVINCIAL TOWN

Baker:      “Good Morning, Belle”

-     Aelin, puzzled by what is happening and perplexed by why she is compelled to sing, magically transports to The Antica. She is ushered by Emrys and Luca in their cooking attire, along with the rest of the ensemble, who seemed to have rehearsed a big musical number.     -

Emrys:     BE OUR GUEST, BE OUR GUEST

               PUT OUR SERVICE TO THE TEST

               TIE YOUR NAPKIN ROUND YOUR NECK, CHERIE

               AND WE PROVIDE THE REST

               SOUP DE JOUR, HOT HORS D��OEUVERS

              WHY, WE ONLY LIVE TO SERVE

              TRY THE GREY STUFF, ITʻS DELICIOUS

               DONʻT BELIEVE IT? ASK THE DISHES

              THEY CAN SING, THEY CAN DANCE

               AFTER ALL, MISS, THIS IS FRANCE

               AND A DINNER HERE IS NEVER SECOND BEST

               GO ON UNFOLD YOUR MENU

               TAKE A GLANCE AND THEN YOUʻLL

               BE OUR GUEST, OUI, OUR GUEST, BE OUR GUEST

Ensemble:  BE OUR GUEST, BE OUR GUEST

                   OUR COMMAND IS YOUR REQUEST

                   ITʻS TEN YEARS SINCE WE HAD ANYBODY HERE

                   WEʻRE OBSESSED

                   WITH YOUR MEAL, WITH YOUR EASE

                   YES, INDEED, WE AIM TO PLEASE

                   WHILE THE CANDLESTICKʻS STILL GLOWING

                   LET US HELP YOU, WEʻLL KEEP GOING

-    They all line up and begin a grand kick line.   -

                   COURSE BY COURSE, ONE BY ONE

                  TILL YOU SHOUT, “ENOUGH, IʻM DONE”

                  THEN WEʻLL SEND YOU OFF TO SLEEP AS YOU DIGEST

                  TONIGHT YOUʻLL PROP YOUR FEET UP

                  BUT FOR NOW, LETʻS EAT UP

                  BE OUR GUEST, BE OUR GUEST, BE OUR GUEST

                  PLEASE, BE OUR GUEST

-      Aelin is completely taken aback by the magnificent performance put on by the crew. In awe, she is transported once more to the elegant ballroom, but now she is fitted with a dazzling, gold ballroom gown. A dashingly, groomed Rowan approaches Aelin, wearing a charming black tux. He offers his hand, in silent question for a dance. She places her hand in his and he guides them to the center of the floor where they begin to waltz.       -

Aelin:   TALE AS OLD AS TIME

            TRUE AS IT CAN BE

            BARELY EVEN FRIENDS

            THEN SOMEBODY BENDS, UNEXPECTEDLY

-   Lorcan/Elide, Aedion/Lysandra, Dorian/Manon join them on the dance floor, following along in the waltz as Fenrys and Connal stand by beatboxing.    -

            JUST A LITTLE CHANGE

            SMALL TO SAY THE LEAST

            BOTH A LITTLE SCARED

            NEITHER ONE PREPARED

            BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

            EVER JUST THE SAME

            EVER A SURPRISE

            EVER AS BEFORE

            EVER JUST AS SURE

            AS THE SUN WILL RISE

            CERTAIN AS THE SUN

            TALE AS OLD AS TIME

            SONG AS OLD AS RHYME

            BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

            TALE AS OLD AS TIME

            SONG AS OLD AS RHYME

            BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

            WHOA-OH

“WAKE UP YOU FREAK”

Aelin lurches awake, back in the comfort of her own bed, Manonʻs long, sharp nails digging into her skin.

“OW!,” Aelin massages the crescent indents in her arm.

“You were singing in your sleep ... really loudly. Lys came over to make sure you werenʻt dying, and took a few embarrassing videos of you,”

   Aelin murmurs a defensive sigh and seeks refuge under her comforter, reflecting on her dream, What the fuck? Why did I dream of Rowan? She convinces herself that her subconscious was just playing tricks on her and decided to leave their past in the past. Given the new circumstances, they were merely co-workers, sort of, and nothing would happen between them, well not again. Sheʻs learned what happens when you fall for a Whitethorn, you get your heart broken. 

   She will never forget that afternoon. Rowan had received a large envelope package from Orynth University, his dream school. Aelin, her parents, Maeve, Rowansʻ aunt and legal guardian since the passing of his parents when he was young, his whole family, all gathered in her small living room while he read out his acceptance letter. He was so excited. Not wanting to ruin his news with the sad announcement of her rejection letter, she plastered on a bright smile and consumed the happy energy of the night.

   Once the party turned down, he led her outside on her porch. He knew her better than anyone and could tell that something had been off. She confessed in sobs, excusing that she did not want to take the attention away from his amazing opportunity. He immediately offered to apply to the local college, or other universities in the area, or get a job, anything to stay near her. She forbade him, he had just been accepted to his dream college, where he had been talking about going all his life. She refused to hold him back from his dream so she brought up the option of splitting up, which caused his turn to cry. 

   After hours of tears, talks, and “i love you, to whatever end,” they both agreed to end things, which broke her heart even more. She knew it was mainly her decision, he would have done anything he could to be with her, done long distance, found a different school, anything, but she couldn't let him pass up this opportunity. She wouldn't have been able to live with herself if she had trapped him in their relationship, no matter how much they loved each other, sometimes the best thing you could do for the ones you love, is let them go. 

   The most painful part was watching him leave. Waving him goodbye as he went up the escalator to security of the airport, praying that he didn't look back. He was her first love, she gave her heart to him. They both had decided to end things, but a part of her hated him for leaving, even though she made him. He left. He left her. He left their dreams. He left their plans. He left their future. He left for his dream, his future. She made him leave. She hated herself most of all.

   Now here they are, eight years later, stuck on the same boat and brought together again by Lorcan Salvaterre nonetheless. In spite of the years with other lovers, the years of not keeping in touch, they were in love once, completely in love. Once youʻve had that kind of love, you never stop loving them, they will always carry a piece of your heart. And damn him if he has more than just a piece, Aelin vowed.

   Her mind wandered to the song he played in the ballroom just the other day. “Do you remember when, midnight drives when youʻd sing, Iʻd play you songs you were in...Do you remember when, with Rome below us that day, you said ʻI wish we could stayʻ?” She didn't want to read too much into it, but the song had to be about her. Right? How many people could he have serenaded on a late night drive? How many girls confessed their love for him under the stars and moonlight by the Trevi fountain? “Do you remember when?” Does she remember? How could she ever forget?

   Before she could over-analyze the situation any further, Manon pulled the comforter from her bed. Aelinʻs body went in shock from the sudden lack of warmth protection, the brisk midday cool kissing her skin, and groans a very unladylike curse. 

“Time to get up sleeping beauty, oh Iʻm sorry, Belle I mean,” Manon heaves into cackles. Aelin swears that in another life, Manon was a witch, wicked and ruthless. 

   In a very unusual, chipper mood, Manon getʻs Aelin up to speed on their plans for the day. She had gotten word of a scavenger hunt Dorian was putting on and eagerly volunteered their friend group to participate. 

   The two got ready for the rest of the day and gathered their friends to grab some brunch before their fun activity. While settling into Emrysʻ section of the bar, a few fans tracked them down, asking for pictures and autographs. Meeting their fans had always been Aelinʻs favorite part of what they do, seeing people enjoy their music and support them. Luca treats them to some bacon and eggs, and they snag some fresh chocolate croissants from the nearby bakery. They stay and share many stories and laughs between the court and the chefs, until it is time to find Dorian and begin the scavenger hunt. 

   Aelin wasn't surprised when Manon had been the one to locate him. She couldn't tell if this would be just another chase for Manon. In the past, sheʻs had a difficult time making attachments with people, everyone but Elide it seems. A part of her hopes that Manon would pursue an actually relationship with him, from what she could tell so far, he had a dark, wild spirit about him, one that would challenge her antics quite well. 

“Good afternoon everyone, weʻre just waiting on one more group,” Dorian flashed a wicked grin and a flirty wink in Manonʻs direction. Aelin watched her friendʻs complexion redden and blush as the Cadre arrived, looking as daunting and intimidating as ever.

“Okay letʻs get started shall we? You guys have signed up for the adult scavenger hunt,” he passes out a list of items, “so how this works is you guys will be split up into...,” he counts the nine of them, “two groups. Each groupʻs goal is to take a picture of someone in the group with an item on the list, different items vary on points given based on difficulty or creativity. Without a member of your team in the photo, it will not get points. You guys have two hours and then we will meet back here to go over the photos and assign a winning group. Winners get free drinks at our private island port,” they cheer at the prospect of free alcoholic beverages.

   Dorian splits them up into teams. Team one being Elide, Lorcan, Rowan, Connal, and Lysandra. Team two: Aelin, Manon, Fenrys, Aedion, and Dorian adds himself to even out their numbers. Dorian looks at his timer, “Two hours starting...Now!”

Both teams, consisting of extremely competitive adults, disperse to huddle up with their groups and assess the list of items to find and capture. 

   TAKE A PICTURE WITH....

-  The shipʻs steering wheel  (10 points)

-  A ship staff member AND team member with a chef hat on  (5 points)

-  Someone playing the piano  (3 points, 5+ bonus for video)

-  A King and a Queen  (5 points)

-  Spa brochure signed by spa employee  (5 points)

-  A staff member (the higher rank, the more points)

-  Someone on your team kissing a stranger  (10 points)

-  Yellow Duck  (5 points)

-  Poker chips  (3 points)

-  Someone on your team posing on a stripper pole  (5 points)

-  Drink umbrella  (3 points)

-  Towel animal  (3 points)

-  Someone wearing a sea sickness patch  (3 points)

-  A Conga line   (5 points)

-  A member of your team in the pool   (5 points)

-  Each member of your team with a different drink   (10 points)

-  Someone on your team playing mini golf  (5 points)

-  Someone on your team using exercise equipment   (5 points)

-  The room numbers for the following rooms: 829, 318, 560   (3 points)

-  Ice Cream cone  (3 points)

-  Someone with a bad sunburn  (5 points)

-   Someone dancing inappropriately  (3 points, +5 bonus for video)

-  3 different food menus  (3 points)

-   A performer in full costume with a mask on   (3 points)

-   Someone in a bikini with the life preserver ring   (5 points)

   Aedion takes charge as group leader. They collectively decide to find the rooms 829, 318, and 560 first since it seemed like the most straightforward, and easiest task. The five of them find the room 318 first, take a group selfie in front of the room number, then proceed to do the same with the remaining rooms, ending with 829. 

   They discuss going to their rooms quickly to change into swimsuits, thinking forward to a few of the scavenger hunt items that require either a change of attire, or the possibility of getting wet. Aelin and Manon retreat to their room and change into flattering bikinis, Fenrys and Dorian to their respective rooms to change into swim trunks, and Aedion to his, right across the hall. 

   Fenrys and Dorian, both shirtless and in all their glory, meet the girls in front of their door. “Wow, you look amazing,” Aelin overhears Dorian compliment Manon. The two go off into their own little world, leaving Aelin and Fenrys to get to know each other better. The two immediately click. Fenrys was the perfect balance of funny and flirty, and that kept a beaming smile and standby laugh on Aelinʻs demeanor. They shared a common sense of humor and both were very quick and witty, so they got along very well. 

   Aedion walks out of his cabin in the silliest blue and yellow duck swimming trousers. “Forgot I brought these,” he fibs, his face plastering a bright ruby shade. The four stay silent for a few seconds, really trying to hold in their laughter. Aelin was the first to break and the rest followed. 

“Ha-ha, laugh all you want, but I just got us 5 points,” he pulls out his phone and takes a selfie of him in his swim trucks, pointing out the yellow duck. “I also snapped a pic with the towel animal in our room, so thatʻs checked off.”

Whenever room service came by to turn in their room, theyʻd leave towels intricately folded into cute animals, todayʻs was a small elephant. 

“Okay whatʻs next boss?” Fenrys says once calmed down. 

Aedion reviews the list once again and the his head darts up, “Hey Ace, youʻre using those sea sickness patches right?”

“Everyday,” she nods and then he whips his phone around to get a selfie with her, folding her ear to show the small, circular patch behind.

“Okay weʻve got the rooms, the towel animal, the yellow duck, and the seasickness patch. Good start guys. Fen you know where the gym is?”

“Yes, sir,” he answers, flexing his biceps. Manon rolls her eyes and falls in line when Fenrys guides the team to the gym onboard. It was a large, well equipped workout room, only a few people occupying different machines. Treadmills lined the mirror wall, cycle bikes adjacent to those. There were squat racks, dumbbells, bench presses, pull up bars, lat pulldown machines, leg press machines, pretty much everything Aelin used in her normal, rigorous routine. 

   Aelin adjusts the squat rack to her height, leveling it at around her chest height, and loads 250 lbs. to the bar. The mens eyesʻ widen, in disbelief that this quaint creature could support that much weight. Aedion knew however, that she had been training all her life. Physical fitness had always been important to her so she made sure she worked out regularly and vigorously. She turns back to Fenrys, “Spot me?”

“My pleasure,” he purrs expecting to rescue this damsel in distress who is in way over her head. He takes position right behind her. With Aelin in just her bikini and Fenrys his trunks, his bare, sculpted chest was flush behind her bare back, her exposed legs guarded by his. 

   Manon opens her phone, prepared to capture the task on video, also hoping to capture Fenrys and Dorianʻs expression. Aelin balances the bar across her shoulders, lifts the bar and steps back from the rack. She manages about eight reps of correctly formed squats with ease, Fenrys following down with her in every one. 

   She hears the gym door open, Rowan and his team had the same idea and came to use some exercise equipment to check it off their list. Their glances met once in the mirror, then quickly, deliberately broke. She canʻt quite explain why she suddenly felt guilty, as if she had been caught doing something wrong, being in the position she was with Fenrys. So she returns to the rack and sets the bar down, finally starting to feel some burn in her glutes. 

“Damn Aelin, thatʻs impressive,” Dorian praises.

“Thanks, letʻs get out of here and go find more of our items.” They leave the gym, letting the other team to make use of the space. 

   They were near the casino and club so Dorian suggested they find what items they could there. Finding and snapping a photo with poker chips were a breeze. They ran across a stripper pole in the dance club and Fenrys stopped to model a sexy, scandalous pose on the pole and Aelin held the photoshoot, both of them giggling endlessly. 

   The team found the show girl performers walking around the club in their full outfit and masquerade mask. Aelin snapped a photo with two of them wrapped around Fenrys shoulders. 

   Drawing from the same chaotic, wild energy, Aelin and Fenrys started a conga line in the club to which Manon, Dorian, Aedion and many strangers added onto. Aelin at the front of the line, selfie recorded a crazy, upbeat video of the dance. 

   The team takes a breather at the bar, trusting the bar tender with the choice of drink for each person as long as she made each drink different. They also requests that one came with an umbrella. Fenrys, being friendly and personable as always, makes conversation with the bartender Ansel, sliding a few flirty remarks in here and there. She takes note of his group and promises to take good care of them, she says with a wink. 

   Ansel prepares their drinks based on what she felt from each person, giving Aedion a Sazerac, Dorian the AMF (Adios Motherfucker), Manon the Aunt Roberta, Fenrys a jungle juice with an umbrella, and Aelin a Tequila Blue Blazer that she lit on fire. They took a group selfie with their drinks, the umbrella and Ansel, then downed their drinks. 

   After another strong drink, Aelin starts to feel a little buzzed. She grabs Manon and they take stage on one of the clubʻs platforms, matching the rhythm of the loud music. They dance with each other, on each other, skin on skin, lips nearly touching, earning the attention of most of the men in the room. Itʻs Fenrys turn to be behind the camera, recording the show, and he enjoys every second of it. 

Their team leader does his duty and puts the pin in their fun, “We better go look for the last few things on the list, Dorian how much time do we have?”

“A little less than an hour”

“Come on guys,” Aedion gathers his team members like a chaperoning parent.

   Aelin has a light bulb moment and shares, “Oh I know where we can find a piano,” she leads them to the ballroom, the grand piano vacant and begging to be played. She sits at the keys, closes her eyes and plays.

[A.N.] Play “Symphony (feat. Zara Larsson) - Acoustic Version” by Clean Bandit now, follow along and let your imagination do itʻs job. Find playlist here.

-  Aedion starts recording.   -

Aelin:    IʻVE BEEN HEARING SYMPHONIES

             BEFORE ALL I HEARD WAS SILENCE

             A RHAPSODY FOR YOU AND ME

             AND EVERY MELODY IS TIMELESS

             LIFE WAS STRINGINʻ ME ALONG

             THEN YOU CAME AND YOU CUT ME LOOSE

             WAS SOLO, SINGINʻ ON MY OWN

             NOW I CANʻT FIND THE KEY WITHOUT YOU

             AND NOW YOUR SONG IS ON REPEAT

             AND IʻM DANCINʻ ONTO YOUR HEARTBEAT

             AND WHEN YOUʻRE GONE I FEEL INCOMPLETE

             SO, IF YOU WANT THE TRUTH

             I JUST WANNA BE PART OF YOUR SYMPHONY

             WILL YOU HOLD ME TIGHT AND NOT LET GO?

             SYMPHONY

             LIKE A LOVE SONG ON THE RADIO

             WILL YOU HOLD ME TIGHT AND NOT LET GO?

             IʻM SORRY IF ITʻS ALL TOO MUCH

             BUT EVERY DAY YOUʻRE HERE, IʻM HEALINʻ

             AND I WAS RUNNINʻ OUTTA LUCK

             I NEVER THOUGHT IʻD FIND THIS FEELING

             ʻCAUSE IʻVE BEEN HEARINʻ SYMPHONIES

              BEFORE ALL I HEARD WAS SILENCE

             A RHAPSODY FOR YOU AND ME

             AND EVERY MELODY IS TIMELESS

-    Manon moves to sit beside Aelin on the piano bench.    -

Aelin and Manon:     AND NOW YOUR SONG IS ON REPEAT

                                 AND IʻM DANCING ONTO YOUR HEARTBEAT

                                AND WHEN YOUʻRE GONE I FEEL INCOMPLETE

                                SO, IF YOU WANT THE TRUTH

Aelin:    I JUST WANNA BE PART OF YOUR SYMPHONY

            WILL YOU HOLD ME TIGHT AND NOT LET GO?

            SYMPHONY

            LIKE A LOVE SONG ON THE RADIO

            WILL YOU HOLD ME TIGHT AND NOT LET GO?

-     The women lean into each other.    -

Aelin and Manon:     Ah-Ah-Ah-Aah-Ah-Ah-Ah

                                 Ah-Ah-Ah-Aah-Ah-Ah-Ah

                    AND NOW YOUR SONG IS ON REPEAT

                    AND IʻM DANCING ONTO YOUR HEARTBEAT

                    AND WHEN YOUʻRE GONE I FEEL INCOMPLETE

                    SO, IF YOU WANT THE TRUTH

Aelin:      OH

           I JUST WANNA BE PART OF YOUR SYMPHONY

           WILL YOU HOLD ME TIGHT AND NOT LET GO?

           SYMPHONY

           LIKE A LOVE SONG ON THE RADIO

          OH, SYMPHONY

           WILL YOU HOLD ME TIGHT AND NOT LET GO?

           SYMPHONY

           LIKE A LOVE SONG ON THE RADIO

           WILL YOU HOLD ME TIGHT AND NOT LET GO?

   The ballroom fills with applause and the boastful cheers from the men. The girls sarcastically get up and bow, like after a recital performance. Realizing that they donʻt have much time, they rush to the Lido deck and seek out Emrys and Luca. 

   They track the two down and ask for a picture, Aelin stands in between the them and as Aedion counts down, “Say cheese, one...two..” Aelin swipes Lucaʻs chef hat and put itʻs on quickly as the picture snaps. They look over the photo and laugh at a mischievous grin on Aelinʻs face and a confused, grumpy Luca not looking at the camera but instead at Aelin.

   Having another bright idea, Aelin runs to the large chess board game on the deck and catches a selfie with the giant King and Queen chess pieces. When she returns to Emrysʻ station, a familiar back is seated in the stool she was just accompanying, and she had another brilliant idea.

“Sam? Hi,” he turns and realizes who she was.

“Oh hi!,” he responds kindly, “Iʻm sorry, I donʻt think I got your name.”

“Aelin,” she gives her hand out for a handshake, he returns with a firm, grip.

“Well itʻs nice to officially meet you, Aelin,” her cheeks warm.

“This may seem like a forward request, but is there anyway my friends and I could see the shipʻs steering wheel? Iʻm told youʻre the captain,” she smirks.

He chuckles, “One of them yes, and totally, let me take you guys.”

   She gets Manon, Aedion, Dorian, and Fenrys and introduces them to Sam and vice versa, mentioning that heʻs the captain and heʻll be showing them the ships steering wheel. He leads them to the command bridge, on the way Manon pulls her aside.

“Ace we can knock out three birds with one stone,”

“What are you talking about?” Aelin says, not quite understanding.

“Kiss him in front of the steering wheel.”

“What?”

“In the photo weʻll have the steering wheel, check, a team member kissing a stranger, check, and a staff member (the higher rank, the more points) aka, CAPTAIN! 3 items, one picture, plus we donʻt have much time left, come on.”

Pressured by the time constraint, Aelin caves. “Fine. Have your phone ready.”

   Aelin hurries back to the front near Fenrys and Sam, staying close to both. They make it to the command bridge and Sam gives them a tour of the different controls, putting on his captainʻs cap, a look that suited him, Aelin thought. 

They stood in front of the steering wheel and Aelin quietly asked Sam, “I apologize, another forward request,”

“Iʻm getting the feeling that thatʻs your thing,” he whispers back. She softly snickers.

“Could I kiss you?”

   Obviously taken off guard, Sam blushes, then cups Aelinʻs face in his hands and brushes a soft, sensual kiss to her lips. Manon takes the photo. Aelin melts in his touch, returning the kiss with more fervor. Aedionʻs forced cough ruins the moment, the two disconnecting, both with warm, rosy complexions.

“Um, thank you for the tour, we have to go now,” Aedion says plainly. Manon and Dorian quietly laugh and the group make their leave, Aelin joins once out of earshot. 

   They return to the Lido deck and split up to try and get the last few items on the list. Aedion assigns himself to find the ice cream and the 3 food menus, Manon and Dorian volunteer for the spa brochure and mini golf game, and they go their separate ways. 

   Aelin and Fenrys stand at the edge of the pool when he turns his back to the pool and faces her.

“You know, I must confess, I find you extremely attractive,” he professes.

“Is that so, pretty boy?” She moves her palms to lay flat on his chest, looking up to him. She starts to tippy-toe, and he leans forward in for a kiss. When their faces get an inch apart she pushes him forward, he flails into the pool, and she laughs her guts out.

   She whips out her phone and takes a photo of an unamused, cock-blocked Fenrys in the pool. She looks around the pool, looking for a life preserver ring nearby. She catches sight of one hooked up to the deck railing. She releases it and returns to the pool, Fenrys just getting out, dripping water everywhere. 

   She hands him the phone and he snaps a few photos of her posing in her bikini with the life preserver ring, satisfied and proud of his work, he whistles back up at his model.

   Dorian and Manon return warning them that it is time to meet back with the other team. Aedion returns shortly after with a mustache of ice cream. Aelin cleans him up and they travel back to their meeting place to determine a winning team. 

   Team one shows their photos and videos first. They had mainly the same idea as Aelinʻs group. For their King and Queen item, they took a photo of the King and Queen from a standard deck of cards. For their yellow duck, Lysandra took a picture of Aedionʻs matching boxer briefs to his trunks, the whole group found that humorous, but made sure he didn't feel embarrassed of his attire choices. One of the photos that Aelin picked out was their kissing stranger photo. In the frame was Rowan kissing a pale blonde woman with bright, cerulean eyes. 

“Ro, is that Remelle?” Fenrys asks, also pointing out the photo. 

“Yeah, Benson and Essar are here too,” Rowan responds, the first thing sheʻs heard him say all day. 

“Whoʻs Remelle?” Aelin asks, trying not to seem too eager to know.

“Remelle, Benson, and Essar are our regular groupies, they follow us literally everywhere we go, theyʻre at every show, every concert. Pretty much our biggest fans,” Fenrys informs her.

“Biggest stalkers,” Lorcan corrects.

“Still strangers though, they know everything about us, we know nothing about them really,” Connal defends, making the record clear that the photo is still valid. 

   Team two takes their turn showing their photos and videos. Fenrys emphasizing Aelinʻs squat video, her and Manonʻs dancing pictures, their song, and the photos he just took of her and the life preserver ring. The other team, especially Elide and Lysandra, hype her and Manon up, calling them “hotties” and a “baddies” every so often.

   Manon shows the photo of Aelin and Sam. Elide and Lys gasp, “Is that THE Sam?” Aelin laughs and nods. “Good work Ace.”

   Dorian calculates the final points and calls for attention.

“Great job today everyone, you all did amazing. Results are in, team one got 112 points,” everyone applauses in congratulations, “and team two got 124, congratulations team two!” 

   Everyone cheers and congratulates each other, very maturely and sportsman-like. They spend the rest of the afternoon splashing each other and playing in the pool.

Night 4 - AT SEA - “No band performance tonight, Live Crew Performances during Dinner!

   The two bands stayed in the water for hours, playing throughout the glorious sunset. They had definitely gotten closer, more comfortable with each other. Throughout the play fighting they discussed possibly teaming up on shows and performing together. Itʻs an idea. It would probably be really fun, adding a different dynamic to both groups.

   Aelin notices Rowan laying on a pool deck chair, staring into the sky. She exits the pool, dries off a little and joins him, laying down on the deck chair next to him, star gazing into the extraordinary abyss of light. Heʻs the first one to break the silence.

“Lyria was really into astronomy,” he chocked a little, not enough to pick up unless you knew him, “she knew all the constellations by name, all the galaxies,” his gaze never leaving the cosmos. “Sometimes I like to think that sheʻs one of these stars now, burning bright, watching over me every night.”

“She soundʻs incredible. I wish I could have met her”

He smiles, “I think you would have liked her.”

She turns her head, adjusting her arm to rest her head on her forearm, facing him. “Tell me more about her?”

   He obliges. He tells the story of how he and Lyria first met, running into each other on their way to class, dropping all her books and supplies and bumping heads when they both reached down to pick them up. He shares of their first date, their first kiss. 

   She couldn't remember being tired but something about Rowanʻs voice soothed her into submission, her eyelids dropping with weight. Before she knew it she passed out, falling asleep right there on a deck chair, listening to her ex talk about his dead fiance. 

   When she finally awoke in the middle of the night, she was back in her bed, her comforter tucked into her sides. How did I make it back here? She didnʻt have the energy to investigate her questions, the night claimed her once again and she drifted off one last time. 

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

All Hands on Deck taglist:   bolded tags aren't taggable, lmk what I can do

@smalltddygothgf 

@booksbqueen

@underworldboxers

@live-the-fangirl-life

@islabyrnex

@kathi2599​

@booknerdproblems​ 

@rowaelinismyotp​ 

[taeyongdoyoung]

summary: you are a mermaid and you save a handsome man from drowning but little do you know it’s not his first rodeo when dealing with mermaids. seonghwa, a former prince, is currently hongjoong’s first mate and boyfriend. hongjoong is the captain, the pirate king of the most savage crew across the seas. and you want nothing to do with them. not because they’re pirates, but because they’re humans…

ship: mermaid!reader x prince/pirate!seonghwa x pirate!hongjoong

genre: little mermaid!au, pirate!au, romance, ANGST, fantasy

warnings: manipulation, betrayal, lying, jealousy, insecurities, death mentions, to sum up: everyone suffers a lot and i have no excuse

author’s note: actually nah, yeosang & soojin are living their best lives

word count: 3.5k

chapter one ☠️ chapter two ☠️ chapter three ☠️ chapter four ☠️  chapter six ☠️  chapter seven ☠️ chapter eight  ☠️ chapter nine ☠️ chapter ten ☠️ chapter eleven ☠️ chapter twelve ☠️ chapter thirteen ☠️ spotify playlist

Hongjoong’s POV

I couldn’t take it anymore. The more time passed, the closer Seonghwa got to Y/N. It was destroying me slowly. I wanted her out of his life, out of my life. Everything was perfect before. But my boyfriend was spending more and more of his free minutes in her company. And it was so damn frustrating. Because these minutes were supposed to be mine. 

I was the one he was supposed to cherish. But he barely paid any attention to me. I wanted to get rid of her so fucking badly. At first, I considered killing her. But then, I changed my mind. If Seonghwa ever found out, he would hate me for it. He would end things with me for good. It would have an opposite effect of what I wanted to achieve. 

So, instead I came up with a different plan altogether. I wanted her out of the picture, right? I just had to convince her to leave on her own terms. To convince her that Seonghwa wasn’t good enough for her. And I knew just the thing that would make her walk away. Well, technically, she would swim away, but whatever. 

A smile appeared on my face. It was perfect. I just had to figure out how to get her alone. Whenever she swam by, Seonghwa was always quick to go to her. I needed him to be distracted by something so that I could accomplish my plan. An idea was already forming in my head. But I needed Yeosang’s help. And I couldn’t tell him the truth about my intentions, because he might tell Seonghwa and then everything would go to hell. So, naturally, I improvised.

“Sangie, will you help me with something?” I cooed in the younger boy’s ear while he was cooking something.

“What is it, hyung?” Yeosang asked.

“Well, you remember what you suggested a while ago? About having more than one lover…”

“Oh my God, did you finally make up your mind? You’re going to stop being jealous of Y/N?”

“M-maybe,” I lied. “But I want it to be a surprise for Seonghwa. And in order to do that, I need to talk to her first. Alone.”

“What do you need me for?” Yeosang inquired, eager to help. Poor boy had no idea he was being deceived.

“I need you to distract Seonghwa while I’m discussing it with Y/N. Can you do that for me?”

“Sure thing! I’ll tell him there’s an emergency in the kitchen next time she swims by and make him come with me while you’re talking with Y/N.”

“Really? That sounds great. Thank you so much, Sangie!” I responded, trying not to sound too gleeful about it.

“Of course, it’s no big deal,” Yeosang replied. “I really hope things work out for the three of you. It’d be so nice for you to finally get along with Y/N. She really isn’t a bad person.”

I restrained myself from pointing out that she wasn’t even a person at all.

🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️

Reader’s POV

During the past few weeks you’d been swimming to the pirates’ ship every day. Talking to Seonghwa about his adventures was the highlight of your day. You called his name as soon as you reached the ship. You were surprised when he didn’t show up immediately. So far, it had never taken him so long. A couple of moments later, you were greeted by Hongjoong, the captain of the ship and Seonghwa’s boyfriend. You frowned in suspicion, because he never regarded you. So, what changed? Why did he suddenly want to communicate with you. It was weird.

“What do you want?” you huffed. “Where is Seonghwa?”

“Unavailable at the moment, I’m afraid,” Hongjoong informed you.

So strange…

“Listen, I can tell you two are getting closer so I felt it’s only right to warn you.”

“I don’t need to hear anything from you,” you groaned in annoyance. “I know you’re jealous I might steal your boyfriend away. Whatever you say, it won’t stop me from wanting to be his friend.”

“I might as well go ahead and say it, then,” Hongjoong laughed. “If you’re so sure it’ll change nothing.”

Your raised an eyebrow in curiosity. What was he getting at? Did he actually have anything worth talking about or was he just bluffing for whatever reason?

“Go ahead,” you gave him permission needlessly, because he was already intent on telling you something very important.

“Didn’t you ever wonder how Seonghwa knew about Ariel?” Hongjoong suddenly questioned you.

“Many humans have heard the story,” you didn’t think much about it. But now that he mentioned it…Seonghwa had looked particularly heartbroken whenever Ariel’s name came up in conversation. You wondered…why was that?

“You’d be surprised what Seonghwa knows and hasn’t told you.”

You tilted your head slightly in confusion. What was he talking about?

“Shouldn’t I be asking him that?” you challenged Hongjoong. “Why should I trust you? All you’ve ever done since we met is be jealous.”

Hongjoong shook his head.          

“Seonghwa’s not the man he claims to be. He’s hiding a terrible secret from you.”

“Stop being so ambiguous!” you were getting angry. “Just say whatever lie you’ve made up and leave me alone!”

Hongjoong nodded.

“Alright, then. You want a lie? The truth is Seonghwa is the reason Ariel turned into sea foam. She loved him,” he said, causing you to flinch. “That’s right,” he kept going. “He was the prince who abandoned her. She gave her voice, her tail and her life for him and he tossed it all away. Is that the kind of man you like?”

Tears began clouding your sight. This couldn’t be real. Hongjoong was lying.

“If he’s as terrible as you say he is, why are you with him?” you asked rightly. “Why would you feel threatened by me?”

Hongjoong laughed bitterly.

“You got it all wrong. I’m just as terrible as him, that’s why we belong together. I’ve killed people, Y/N. Seonghwa has, too. But you don’t belong in our world. You should save yourself before it’s too late.”

You couldn’t believe this. It had to be a lie. Right?

“After all, you don’t want to end up like her, do you?” Hongjoong dealt the killing blow.

By then, your eyes were filled with salty tears and your hands were shaking.

“Ask him if you don’t believe me,” Hongjoong chuckled sarcastically. “Unless…you’re afraid to hear him say it.”

“I’m not afraid of anything!” you screamed in frustration and returned where you have always belonged – to the bottom of the sea.

☠️☠️☠️

Seonghwa’s POV

I always warned Yeosang not to cook by himself, because it usually ended in disaster. So, naturally, I got a bit annoyed, because he didn’t listen to me. Of course, I couldn’t let him deal with the consequences all by himself and gave him a helping hand, whenever he needed assistance with his cooking adventures. 

It wasn’t his fault that he burned something in the kitchen the minute Y/N came by to see me. However, by the time the chicken issue was dealt with, Y/N had already vanished without even talking to me. I felt a bit bummed out about that, but yet again, it couldn’t be helped. It was just an unpleasant coincidence. But when she didn’t show up the next day…and then, the following days, as well, I started to get worried. 

I asked Yeosang if he knew anything about that, but he simply responded that Soojin hadn’t appeared recently, either. So, he was as concerned about our mermaid friends as I was. When a whole week passed without any trace of them, I knew that something had happened. This wasn’t like them at all. During the past month, Y/N and Soojin wouldn’t miss a day without interacting with us. 

Their sudden disappearance was troubling, to say the least. When I couldn’t take it any longer, I reached out to Yeosang once more in hopes of finding out why they were no longer around. This time, he told me something different, which surprised me.

“Hongjoong was the last person who talked to Y/N before she and Soojin vanished.”

“Hongjoong?” my eyes narrowed in suspicion. “That doesn’t make any sense. He doesn’t even like Y/N. Why would he talk to her?”

“That was my thought, as well,” Yeosang exclaimed. “It was supposed to be a surprise, but he asked me to distract you, while he was having a conversation with her.”

“What for?” I kept pressing Yeosang for information. This situation was getting really frustrating.

“He…wanted to convince her that he was okay with her being your lover. It was my idea, actually.”

“And what, you think Y/N found that idea so displeasing that she would leave without talking to me? And Soojin, too. Something doesn’t add up.”

Yeosang nodded, agreeing with me.

“Now that I think about it, Hongjoong seemed awfully cheerful about making peace with her.”

“Out of character much, no?” I frowned.

“Precisely. I don’t want to get in the way of your relationship, hyung, but it’s highly possible, he tricked us both.”

I bit my lips anxiously.

“I’m afraid you might be right. I have no choice but to ask him myself.”

“No, hyung, wait,” Yeosang made an attempt to stop me, probably because he didn’t want me to get hurt, but it was already too late, because I was determined to find out what exactly Hongjoong had told Y/N to make her leave without even bothering to say goodbye to me.

☠️☠️☠️

Hongjoong’s POV

Things were going great. Ever since I told Y/N about Seonghwa and Ariel’s history, I had my boyfriend all to myself. My plan had been executed so perfectly that I couldn’t help but worry it was too much of a good thing. I mean…Seonghwa would occasionally ask around if anyone had heard anything from Y/N. But I was certain he’d forget her soon enough and move on. Right?

Well, to put it simply, I was wrong. And I messed up so fucking badly I wanted to punch myself.

“What did you tell her, Hongjoong?” Seonghwa yelled at me angrily, grabbing me by the shirt, his face dangerously close to mine and not in the way I was used to and loved. He was furious. And he had every right to be. I was such an asshole for telling her. He’d trusted me with such a big secret and I’d betrayed him. I wasn’t sure he would ever forgive me for it. So, I played dumb.

“What are you talking about?” I feigned ignorance to the best of my abilities.

“Oh, don’t pull that shit,” Seonghwa rolled his eyes sarcastically. “Yeosang told me you were the last person on this ship who was seen talking to Y/N. Don’t make me ask again,” he threatened.

I gulped nervously.

“Why would I talk to her? It’s not like we have anything in common,” I lied.

“You have me,” Seonghwa chuckled darkly. “So, cut the crap and tell me...unless you want me to go to the bottom of the sea and ask her myself.”

I sighed. That was exactly the kind of thing I was trying to avoid. What was the use of me talking to Y/N if Seonghwa was going to go after her anyways? I was such an idiot it was embarrassing.

“Hwa, baby, I’m so sorry.”

I didn’t even need to verbalize what I’d told her. Seonghwa already knew.

“Please, tell me you didn’t,” he pleaded, his voice on the verge of breaking.

But I did. How could I deny it? So, instead, I just looked him in the eyes, my own were filled with regret.

Seonghwa shook his head in disappointment.

“How could you do this to me, Hongjoong? I trusted you and you betrayed me.”

“I could ask you the same thing,” I replied, immediately going on the offence, because it would hurt me less than admitting I was in the wrong. “Do you know how it feels to watch you watch her? It’s killing me, Hwa, it’s killing me that you’d rather be with someone else if you could. That I’m not good enough for you.”

Seonghwa flinched away from me as if I’d struck him with my words.

“You were good enough. But honestly, I’m looking at you right now and I can’t even recognize the man I fell in love with. I never did anything wrong, Hongjoong. So don’t project your insecurities onto me, because you and I both know I’m not the one who broke your trust.”

Fuck. I knew he was right but what was I supposed to do? I couldn’t take back what I’ve said or done. And if he hadn’t given me reason to question his loyalty, I wouldn’t have gotten this far.

“Fine. You didn’t do anything wrong, but you thought of it.”

“It’s not the same!” Seonghwa screamed. “Damn it, Hongjoong. If I think about killing someone, it’s not the same as actually killing them.”

“Are you thinking about killing me right now?” I asked him, my voice cold and devoid of any emotion. Inside, I was burning alive.

“I don’t know,” Seonghwa responded. “But I’m thinking I don’t want to stay in the same room with you.”

I nodded in understanding.

“That’s fair.”

And then, he walked away, taking the shattered pieces of my heart with him.

🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️🧜‍♀️

Reader’s POV

You had spent the last week trying to distract yourself by doing all of your favourite activities. Collecting starfish with Soojin, observing corals, catching fish, dancing with dolphins, orchestrating concerts with the seagulls. Anything and everything that would take your mind off things. You were so desperately trying to forget everything you’d learned from Hongjoong that you forgot your initial plan. You were supposed to hear Seonghwa’s side of the story. You supposed that Hongjoong’s judgement was clouded by jealousy and he may or may not have exaggerated the extent to which Seonghwa was guilty of Ariel’s death. And yet, something was telling you that he was telling the truth...for the most part.

At one point, Soojin couldn’t put up with your refusal to talk to Seonghwa ever again.

“We have to go up! You guys should discuss this. Instead you’re just shutting him out without allowing him to explain.”

You scoffed.

“Oh, please, you just want to make out with Yeosang. You don’t give a shit about whether Seonghwa was actually responsible for our cousin’s demise.”

Soojin slapped your hand lightly, obviously offended.

“How could you say that? I cared about Ariel, too. But I don’t think Seonghwa is the type of guy who’d hurt her on purpose.”

“Didn’t you hear what I said? Hongjoong told me everything. And who, if not him, would know Seonghwa’s secrets best? Seriously, Soojin, sometimes I think you live in an imaginary world where everything’s perfect and no one gets hurt. Well, wake up, sweetheart! Reality sucks and we have to think twice before trusting some dumb pirates.”

Soojin was getting even more angry with you.

“Even if it’s true, isn’t it only right to hear Seonghwa admit to it? You said it yourself. Hongjoong was jealous of you. What if he lied to you, huh? Wouldn’t you like to know for sure? And yes, maybe I do miss Yeosang. Like…a lot. But that doesn’t mean I don’t care about you or Ariel. You know I have always had your back, Y/N. I’m on your side and I just want you to be happy again. Please, just give Seonghwa one last chance.”

You closed your eyes, trying to numb the pain. Soojin had a point, of course she had. But realizing it meant you had to admit you were wrong.

“Fine,” you finally conceded. “But if I don’t like his explanation, I’m going back here for good. You can do whatever you want with Yeosang but you won’t drag me with you ever again.”

“I swear you won’t regret it, sis!” Soojin vowed solemnly.

“I hope, for your own sake, that you’re right.”

She gave you a tight hug and made you promise not to act rashly and consider every side of the story before making a final decision. You said that you’d try your best to be more patient and she seemed pleased enough by that. All that remained now was to actually put this plan into practice.

☠️☠️☠️

Seonghwa’s POV

I knocked on Yeosang’s door lightly, hoping he’d answer. I was so angry and upset with Hongjoong that I couldn’t imagine sleeping in the same bed as him. How could he do this to me? At first, I hadn’t planned on ever telling Y/N about my love for Ariel. But the more I got to know her, the more I wanted to be completely honest with her.

It was my secret to tell. He had no right to take that away from me. He had no right to drive her away. I was willing to bet he hadn’t presented the facts, as they were. I should have seen this coming. I should have anticipated his jealousy leading him into making this decision. I shouldn’t have trusted him.

“Hyung?” Yeosang murmured sleepily and rubbed his eyes as he opened the door to his room.

“Can I stay here tonight?”

“Sure,” he stepped aside to let me in. “Did something happen?”

“Just go back to sleep, Sangie. I don’t want to talk about it,” I responded.

“Oh, okay. Well, you don’t have to talk,” Yeosang sat down next to me on the edge of the bed and wrapped his gentle arms around me. A silent tear rolled down my cheek as I tried to restrain myself from crumbling. Why did it have to hurt so much? “It’s okay, hyung. Everything will be okay.”

“T-thank you,” I mumbled and squeezed his hand tightly. “For being there for me.”

“Try to get some sleep, yeah? You’ll feel better in the morning,” Yeosang advised me and in that moment, I felt like I was the kid and he was the parent. Oh, how the tables have turned.

“When did you get so wise, huh?” I joked.

“I take it after you,” Yeosang smiled sweetly.

☠️☠️☠️

Yeosang’s POV

I couldn’t possibly kick Seonghwa out, not after what he’d been through. In a way, I related to the way he felt. After all, Soojin wasn’t anywhere to be seen, either. I couldn’t help but worry about her. Though I wasn’t a 100% sure of what Hongjoong had told Y/N that would drive the two mermaids away, I had a suspicion that was most likely correct. Naturally, I couldn’t talk to anyone about it. It wasn’t my secret to tell. But what I could do was be there for Seonghwa. Right now he needed a friend who wouldn’t betray his trust. And as much as I respected and cared for Hongjoong, I had a feeling he had done just that.

Seonghwa was sleeping uneasily, tossing and turning, obviously tormented by something. I wished I could make him open up and make his problems disappear just by listening to him talk about them. But after what I suspected he’d been through, I was fairly certain he’d a have a very difficult time ahead of him. I couldn’t do much but support him in my own silent way. It would have to be good enough.

Wondering about all these things, I couldn’t get any sleep. Which was somewhat fortunate, because if I had been asleep, I probably wouldn’t have heard Soojin calling my name in the middle of the night. I hurried out of my room, trying to be as quiet as possible, because I didn’t want to disturb Seonghwa’s already troublesome dreams.

“Soojin!” I whisper-yelled at her in the dark and jumped out of the ship, swimming towards her without thinking twice.

“Yeosang!” she greeted me happily and wrapped her arms around my neck. “I missed you so much!”

“What happened?” I asked her immediately, not wanting to waste any time in needless formalities.

“It’s so terrible. But I can’t tell you yet. It’s not my se-“

“Secret to tell,” I finished instead of her. “I understand.”

“All I can say is it involves Seonghwa’s past,” Soojin couldn’t refrain herself from sharing that piece of information.

“I figured as much,” I confessed. “You think Y/N will want to talk to him again?”

Soojin shook her head.

“I’ve been trying to convince her to hear him out for the past week. But I don’t know. Maybe she will, maybe she won’t.”

I nodded.

“Well, enough about them. I’m happy you came, I was worried sick.”

“I’m fine,” Soojin reassured me. “But I was terrified you’d think I left you on purpose or something.”

“Something was telling me that wasn’t the case, darling.”

It was too dark to see but Soojin’s warm face against my chest suggested to me that she was blushing. I smirked.

“I missed you, too, you know?”

“Of course you did, I’m awesome,” she giggled playfully and gave me a quick peck on the cheek.

“And humble, I see,” I teased her and stroked her hair.

Soojin laughed and if someone asked, I’d tell them that sound was my favourite song.

To be continued…

[gerrymike]

OK. commentary on my satg playlist. For reasons

lol it wont let me hyperlink but. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0w9pMZtOvP0plqdxT665q7?si=wEFnvdh3Rjaa0p2UX251mQ&dl_branch=1 Plug

1. PIEDMONT (DESTROY BOYS)

Looks like I'm late for the party Everyone knows the attire but me Glass walls separate us Catch a glimpse into different books On different shelves

i.e. teen crisis where u want desperately to live the same life as ppl on the street but also can’t imagine anything worse

2. SWEET ADELINE (ELLIOTT SMITH)

It's a picture-perfect evening and I'm staring down the sun Fully loaded, deaf and dumb and done Waiting for sedation to disconnect my head Or any situation where I'm better off than dead

i.e. she’s alive! is that worse or better. also jfc, you fucking hate hospitals

3. ALAMEDA (ELLIOTT SMITH)

You walk down Alameda  Shuffling your deck of trick cards over everyone Like some precious only son Face down, bow to the champion

also

Walk down Alameda  Brushing off the nightmares you wish Could plague me when I'm awake And now you see your first mistake  Was thinking that you could relate For one or two minutes she liked you But the fix is in

i.e. oops it’s two elliotts in a row, sorry. just. about the connection you can form with someone given just a short period of time, and how sometimes it gets ruined by, like, a werewolf. pretty similar to sweet adeline. mx weisglass gets two songs. plus “precious only son” 😬 “shuffling your deck of trick cards” 😬

4. CAN I PLAY WITH MADNESS (IRON MAIDEN)

Give me the sense to wonder To wonder if I'm free Give me a sense of wonder To know I can be me Give me the strength to hold my head up Spit back in their face

i.e. for Me mostly because i think the whiplash from elliott to maiden is kinda funny. also the gerry VS twisty animosity, in over-the-top wizardy terms. sometimes you are full of hate and that’s OK 😬 

5. ICU (PHOEBE BRIDGERS)

If you're a work of art I'm standing too close I can see the brush strokes I hate your mom I hate it when she opens her mouth It's amazing to me How much you can say When you don't know  What you're talking about

and

I'll climb through the window again But right now it feels good not to stand Then I'll leave it wide open Let the dystopian morning light pour in

i.e. we’re back in london…and, well, yeah. also, song title! we’re still in sacramento, actually, spiritually, at this point in the story

6. CRY FOR JUDAS (THE MOUNTAIN GOATS)

Feel the storm every night Hope it passes by Hallucinate a shady grove where Judas went to die Unfurl the black velvet altar cloth Draw a white chalk Baphomet Mistreat your altar boys long enough and this is what you get

i.e. crew. i think about him

7. IRIS (THE GOO GOO DOLLS)

And all I can taste is this moment And all I can breathe is your life And sooner or later, it's over I just don't wanna miss you tonight

plus

And I don't want the world to see me 'Cause I don't think that they'd understand When everything's made to be broken I just want you to know who I am

i.e. OK. OK. OK. yeah, OK. damn right all you can taste is this moment…yeah OK. SONGS5

8. KILL ALL YOUR FRIENDS (MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE)

It's been 8 bitter years since I've been seeing your face And you're walking away And I will die in this place

to

It's been 10 fucking years since I've been seeing your face round here And you're walking away And I will drown in the fear

i.e. ah…the lyrical differences in the chorus…yes…also i love how raucous this song is despite what it’s about. it’s got satg energy!!! “seeing your face”, of course, is not literal 😬

9. ENCHANTING GHOST (SUFJAN STEVENS)

Don't carry on carrying efforts, oh no, oh oh oh oh Somewhere there's a room for each of us to grow And if it pleases you to leave me, just go, oh oh oh oh Stopping you would stifle your enchanting ghost

and

Did you cut your hands on me? Are my edges sharp? Am I a pest to feed?

i.e. 😬😬😬

10. PAUL (BIG THIEF)

In the blossom of the months I was sure that I'd get driven off with thought So I swallowed all of it As I realized there was no one  Who could kiss away my shit

and PARTICULARLY

Well Paul, I know you said That you'd take me any way I came or went But I'll push you from my brain See, you're gentle baby I couldn't stay, I'd only bring you pain

i.e. HARROWING TERRITORY!!!

11. PITSELEH (ELLIOTT SMITH)

I'll tell you why I Don't wanna know where you are I gotta joke I've been dying to tell you

i.e. sorry. a lot of elliott smith on this playlist. thems the breaks

12. OPHELIA (THE LUMINEERS)

Oh, Ophelia You've been on my mind girl like a drug Oh, Ophelia Heaven help a fool who falls in love

i.e. callbacks to SONGS5…! and more pain

13. CLOUDS (BORNS)

I forget all my dreams I forget everyones name I meet I forget about time and space But I can't stop thinking 'bout your face

i.e. tfw your memory’s shit and also you just threw yourself into the sky and you’re still not over it. yowch!

14. ARCADE (DUNCAN LAWRENCE)

Oh, oh-oh-oh oh Oh, oh-oh-oh, oh All I know, all I know Loving you is a losing game

i.e. sorry i heard this song first in a c#tradora edit and i have never recovered.

15. WARS (OF MONSTERS AND MEN)

Yeah, I love you on the weekends But I'm careless and I'm wicked Yeah, I love you on the weekends It's a cruel war I still have pieces of you stuck on me Pieces of you stuck on me Yeah, I love you on the weekends It's a cruel war

i.e. PIECES OF YOU STUCK ON ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! this is the only song of the new omam i’ve heard. i never got around to listening to it. but this one slaps

16. MONTERO (LIL NAS X)

Lookin' at the table, all I see is weed and white Baby, you livin' the life, but baby, you ain't livin' right Cocaine and drinkin' with your friends You live in the dark, boy, I cannot pretend

AND

A sign of the times every time that I speak A dime and a nine, it was mine every week What a time, an incline, God was shinin' on me Now I can't leave And now I'm actin' hella elite

AND ESPECIALLY

I want that jet lag from fuckin' and flyin'

i.e. God i love this song. re: avatarhood. YOU CAN’T LEAVE!!! not saying it’s like being a celebrity, but it’s like being a celebrity. dual perspectives here with G + his morality regarding the person he loves being, uh, evil? (you live in the dark / i cannot pretend) and M + debt he owes to his god, erosion of his own morals. also, SHEER F*CKING VIBES

17. GEYSER (MITSKI)

You're my number one You're the one I want And you've turned down Every hand that has beckoned me to come

i.e. love songs that serve double as to your god and to your lover

18. THAT’S WHAT I LIKE (BRUNO MARS)

Jump in the Cadillac (Girl, let's put some miles on it) Anything you want (Just to put a smile on it) You deserve it baby, you deserve it all

i.e. this song is here because i say so. a real “sorry it’s been seven years let me make it up to you” vibe

19. RUN AWAY WITH ME (SUFJAN STEVENS)

And I say, love Come run away with me Sweet, falling remedy Come run away with me

i.e. more grand ridiculous propositions. more to come. but they’re born out of a real frustration with the situation at hand! it sucks! also, “falling remedy”,

20. LET’S GET MARRIED (BLEACHERS)

I'm gonna get right for you, honey I'll take all of my medicine, spend you all my money, yeah I know it's hard enough to love me But I woke up in a safe house singing, "Honey, let's get married"

i.e. bro.

21. I WILL (MITSKI)

And while you sleep I'll be scared So by the time you wake I'll be brave

i.e. a lot of these here are self explanatory..

22. ME & MY DOG (BOYGENIUS)

I had a fever Until I met you Now you make me cool

also

I never said I'd be all right Just thought I could hold myself together But I couldn't breathe, I went outside Don't know why I thought it'd be any better I'm fine now, it doesn't matter

i.e. title is significant. and yeah. just. recovery’s tricky

23. I FOUND (AMBER RUN)

And I've moved further than I thought I could But I missed you more than I thought I would

i.e. this is like a staple song for like. basically. any pairing. but i’m pathetic and it gets me every time. there’s something about it. not sure if i’m going to leave it on this playlist but. hm. yeah

OK that’s a wrap. highly likely i’ll put more songs on this as i go

[woodzwrites]

good to me | song mingi

► genre: enemies to lovers!au, high school!au; angst, fluff

► pairing: reader x mingi

► word count: 8.8k

► warnings: explicit language, underage drinking/alcohol

everyone has had their fair share of first times. but for you, this surely wasn’t your first time attempting to get half-wasted: drunk enough to have fun with your friends who aren’t as half as giddy and energized as they are during the school day, but to also be able to drive back home safely before midnight and fall sound asleep in your room as if nothing happened.  and it’s not your first time at mingi’s high-scale hilltop pad. everyone knows that he probably came from a line of old money, but he was never treated like the new kid. miraculously, he immediately fit in when he transferred to your high school in the first year.

you stood on the side of the ping pong table, which had turned into an impromptu beer pong table for the sake of mingi and his friends’ constant gaming bets on each other. your close friend was up against mingi, who was standing on a wooden stool as if he wasn’t already a tree himself. he just had to make sure that everyone knew that this was his house. “y/n! help me out here huh?” she smirks from cheek to cheek and raises her cup too high with a little too much power that a couple of drops of beer spill out.  “what am i gonna gain from this?” you shouted at her over the loud trap music. “a chaance!” she shouts even louder than you as she tilts off the side of the table, tipsy. she falls back onto the couch behind you. “jesus....” only she knew about your slight, perhaps very minor, attraction to mingi since... sadly, freshman year. it had gone on and off, but it got worse as you got closer and closer to his friend circle and he started to (at least) acknowledge your presence. you still felt like a nobody to a lot of people but tonight, you wanted mingi to remember your name in the worst way possible. “hey mingi!” you screamed as you raised a solo cup filled with the beer you were still iffy about. he laughs with that stupid smile he’s had for years and squints to see that your friend isn’t there anymore. “y/n, who you tryna fight?” he takes a step down from his stool as he continues laughing. “you, headass.” his friends around the table all boo in unison towards mingi at the outlash from a girl like you. “oh, MY bad. let me put a fight with you, and we’ll see.” “wanna bet?” mingi’s head freezes and turns at you as he realizes, even over the entire commotion of his party, that you stole his line. his iconic line. “you win, you leave. cause i know you wanna leave. you lose, you’re stuck at my house until the crack of dawn until you make this house crystal clean,” he smirks and takes a larger sip of his beer as he gains a little more confidence from talking big with you. he always has. “damn......” almost the entire group around him echoes. “deal.” you smile even brighter at him and toss the first ping pong ball without his cue and immediately make it in. after countless rounds and the commotion around the game room getting louder and rowdier, it’s finished when mingi tosses the last ping pong ball.  “KOBE!” splash. an instant win as the ball floats on top of the solo cup, ever so gently on the cheap store-bought beer. everyone around mingi starts crowding around him as if he’s made the nba playoffs of the season, and you flip him off. your friends all laugh it off as you take your last shot of beer, and of course, you join in on the laughter. you text your mom that your friend is taking you and the “girls” out for boba, and that you’ll be home by midnight. yes, you were expected to be home by 10 because you sleep extremely early for a high school upperclassman. instead, you’re stuck with mingi and his dog cleaning up his house—which seems to have no end to it, from what you’ve been sweeping after for almost 30 minutes now—and being the slight gentleman he can at least be, he offers to take you home. “no, it’s fine,” you say from across the humongous kitchen with a swiffer in your hand. “my car’s parked down the street. i’m sober now, so i can drive.” “what, did you sneak out here?” mingi looks up with a questioning look. “maybe, maybe not,” you shrug and continue sweeping. “i didn’t expect the party to end that early,” he sighs and takes a nice, cold glass of water from his (take this) third samsung fridge in the house.  “maybe because it’s the middle of summer and people are actually tired? the best parts of summer are when it starts and ends. in the middle, you’re kinda scraping to make plans and do something,” you say from experience.  “damn facts,” he laughs and places his elbows on the side of the acrylic island as he gazes at you. you pretend not to notice, but walk farther away from the kitchen. “i’m gonna turn on some music, it’s too quiet.” “aren’t you already sick of being at your own party with the music ten times louder than it should be?” you turn around before you can maneuver away from the living space. “what? can’t hear you!” mingi had already planted his body into the silky soft couch by the fireplace as the spotify sound rang through the room.  you dropped the swiffer and called it a night. whatever, his cleaning ladies would come over whenever he would need them. before you could put on your lanyard attached with your car keys, mingi called you. “yo wait.” you didn’t look back. “you never look like you’re having fun at my parties. these are so exhausting for me to try and sneak all of these when my parents are out!” mingi whines. you don’t feel like replying so you flip him off again, signaling to him that every time you get caught up in his summer parties, you always end the night feeling ticked off.  “just dance a little.” you roll your eyes at him. “you’re literally one of the best dancers at school, i’ve never seen you dance normally at a party.” the compliment he sneaks in between the conversation makes the heat rise up to your cheeks a little, but somehow, you still find yourself walking back to the living room. “cause maybe,” you step harshly. “i don’t. want to.” “tuff,” he stands up and changes the song to goldlink crew. “how the hell do you want me to dance to this, this is like our chill song.” “damn you listen to my playlists?” you immediately object. “what? no- no, no. i mean like, everyone knows this song but i’m not gonna dance to it.” little did he know that you always listened to his playlists. you guys had similar music taste but you never fully admitted it to him and always said to people that you were open to all genres. in complete and terrible pitch, mingi throws himself around the countertop to face you. “she see money all around me,  i look like i’m the man” you roll your eyes at how obnoxious he’s being because it feels as if the party never ended. and yet somehow, you end up cracking up at him as he continuously becomes more and more drunk as the song continues. you tiredly give into singing along. “you came out of hiding, girl don’t act like i’m your man” you point at each other as mingi uses the crushed red solo cups left on the floor and you use the beer cans accidentally thrown into the sink as mics. now you know he’s completely drunk when he decides to stand on the counter top, his 6’1 looking ass nearly touching the ceiling. you try to pull him off by tugging on his arm, but end up losing balance yourself. you almost fall back when mingi comes down in an instant and catches you before you hit your head on the fridge as crew still plays in the background. you’re in this position for what feels like forever, but what hurts more is the fact that mingi has never looked at you like this for more than 3 seconds. you’ve been nothing but an acquaintance to him, maybe even a vision. barely a friend until tonight. from the constant bickering in your friend group, to the multiple plans that both of you have flaked on for being “busy,” many of your friends thought you guys genuinely hated each other. truth is, it’s just that you’ve never had these moments like these with him. the feeling of him getting comfortable with you made you uneasy, but to him, it doesn’t feel foreign.  but you thought, hey, seize the moment before the moment seizes you. and everything after that happens in a blur. you grab his wrist to pull him closer and immediately crash into him, eyes already closed. it doesn’t feel foreign at all. it’s almost as if this has already happened in a past life, a deja vu with the same feelings. mingi doesn’t believe what’s happening. the girl he’s always thought of as one of the boys is kissing him right now as if nothing else mattered. and it wasn’t just a normal kiss. it felt like the climax of a kdrama, when the main lead couple finally confesses to one another. a person in the couple is shocked and keeps their eyes open as the kiss unravels, until they finally melt. but mingi didn’t fall so easily. his eyes were indeed open, but the way your hand effortlessly grabbed and fit into his, and the way that everything that just happened in the past 5 minutes seems rehearsed is insane. you’re insane. you know that this doing this would immediately fuck up any kind of friendship or relationship you guys had going on, but you knew that this was the only way to have mingi remember you that summer once and for all.  you pull away from the kiss and can barely look him in the eye. he’s looking at you even deeper now, almost as if they’re screaming at you “what the hell just happened.” you brush off his wrist and remind yourself where you’re supposed to be going. fuck, it was probably already midnight.  “i.. i. i’m going now,” you shape your left hand like the figure of a prospector’s hand pointing towards a river full of gold.  “u-uh. yeah.” “going.” you put on your sneakers and throw around your keys, feeling more conscious than ever now. “b-bye,” you wave and bow to mingi besides the fact that him and you only have a small age difference. “yyeah. bye.” he waves with no emotion. and the first thing mingi does when you close the front door is touch his lips with his fingers to feel that same weird, burning feeling. and though he doesn’t put his hands up against his chest, he can hear his heartbeat beating so loudly and fast in his ears. and the first world that he can spew is: “fuck.” — “you’re off.” “off? who’s off?” mingi smiles at his childhood friend, hongjoong. out of the entire friend group, hongjoong had been the one who had matured greatly and could easily tell whenever his hyungs didn’t feel like themselves. their crazy group has been through a lot, and hongjoong knows he’s spent his high school days well. “i don’t know man, who do YOU think?” he stuffs a french fry in his mouth as mingi, hongjoong, yunho, and wooyoung huddle around a carls jr. table after a summer class lecture. yunho, being the scholar he is, recommended all of his friends to take the early summer classes since they had more space and it generally felt better. but everyone knew he used that as an excuse to sleep in for the rest of the day until he would get wasted at mingi’s house again. “you’re not saying much,” wooyoung shakes his head. “yeah... cause i’m hungry, i don’t know. today’s lecture was boring,” you try to change the topic. “this is the first lecture this summer that you didn’t manage to fall asleep in the first five minutes of. something on your mind, man?” yunho noticed. “no. you guys are so dramatic!” “and this is how he changes the subject. go ahead mingi, tell them you’re having another party tonight for pete’s sake,” hongjoong remarks. “i’m not having a party tonight.” “WHAT?” all the guys go googly-eyed towards mingi. “wh.. why? my dad is coming home tonight,” mingi insists. “you said BOTH your parents were gonna be out all week. yeah, something’s definitely up,” wooyoung immediately directs his attention to his phone to look up nearby cafes because he couldn’t stand eating this cheap fast food anymore. “you stopped texting me at like 1. AND you were drunk, so how did you knock out so easily? you weren’t even on league...” yunho tries to recall all the little details he knew from last night. “i don’t know. it’s kinda foggy but after the party, i remember drinking a little more and then knocking out on my bed.” “that’s... that’s never happened. ever,” wooyoung almost laughs at the statement. silence fills up space on the fast food joint’s table until hongjoong looks up from his phone after scrolling a good amount on instagram. “oh shit. did you...?” “did i...?” yunho catches onto what hongjoong is suggesting immediately. “bro. y/n.” “well like, no. kinda yes but no.” mingi sighs and knows he’s gonna immediately get grilled for this. he doesn’t worry too much, though, he knows that you have probably told at least 5 of your close friends at this point. “when we were cleaning because of that bet, i accidentally tripped, she caught me, and we kissed,” mingi said it so effortlessly, the fact that he said it with no worry in his tone scared the guys even more. “DUDE!!!!!!” chaos amongst almost-grown men in a fast food joint after your third lecture of the month feels unsettling. it feels like he’s in a mirage. ”what the hell are you gonna do now? er i don’t know, maybe cause you have someone named yerin on your dick right now?” yunho’s eyes dilated at the way he said yerin. if yerin ever knew... “apologize or something. we were both drunk, so we just gotta acknowledge that whatever happened in the past is already over.” and you’ve had your fair share of meltdowns. this time around, you haven’t left the house since the party and you still haven’t told your closest friends. and so what? you were busy with summer classes and you didn’t feel the need to hang out or text them. you distracted yourself as much as you could at home, and every time you would have go on campus, you ignored him. you knew damn well that he was there living his best life acting like the kiss probably never happened. because of her. because of the stunning, mysterious yerin.  yerin, in short, could probably be the love of mingi’s life. when you first barely befriended him, you only heard and saw bits and pieces of conversation of how much he loved her and how she didn’t reciprocate that love back. and that’s got you thinking. would mingi ever tell yerin about this? it seemed like they “like” each other, but you couldn’t imagine all the tea she would be able to stir up if she ever found out mingi kissed you when first of all, she wasn’t even officially dating mingi. mingi would always hold her hand and look at her like a little puppy, but it was almost as if she was slightly embarrassed by him. you’ve seen the pictures and videos they’ve had together, but it seems like there always had to be a friend there too. it had never been just the two of them.  the most unsettling part of their so-called relationship is that every time a dance would come around, yerin had to confirm that they were going out as friends. even when mingi kissed her multiple times when asking her out to prom. confusing, isn’t it? so you’ve been doing well by dwelling at home and attempting to distract yourself in all ways possible and going out with family more. until he texts you. mingi: hey mingi: you free rn? we should talk y/n: uh why mingi: typing... mingi: wdym why mingi: you good mingi: i haven’t seen you at class for a while y/n: yeah y/n: mingi just get straight to the point and don’t waste my time “yikes, she’s fierce. this the same y/n who was the big nerd in first year?” yunho sat next to mingi as he sent these texts as he was the one who convinced him to send them. mingi: have you told anyone about ... y/n: no y/n: i’m being fr mingi cringed before he could finish his thought. “dude, why do i have to say this!” mingi groans as his head falls back on his sofa. “because your ass won’t stop thinking about it. so it’s better if she just lets go of everything right now, and it’ll be good on both of your sides. don’t you have a date with yerin tonight?” yunho asks. “no, she cancelled. she keeps cancelling but she still nods and says hi to me on campus,” mingi wonders. mingi: why did you mingi: er do it y/n: typing... y/n: cause i was drunk headass y/n: i have pretty vague memory past that party but i do remember having to stay longer at your house y/n: i knocked out p badly.. i think i slept in my clothes you held your knees so tightly in bed and bit your fingernails after making up that lame excuse. you were completely sober when that happened, so you’re just gonna act like you knew nothing. y/n: we didn’t...? mingi: oh god nonono “DUDE WHY ARE YOU AVOIDING IT!” yunho groans louder. “because she genuinely doesn’t remember! if she doesn’t remember, it never happened,” mingi justifies his awkward texting. “or maybe, she’s just saying that because she doesn’t wanna get into the talk about yerin. or worse, get this. her feelings for you.” mingi is on the verge of screaming and losing his mind. “since when has she liked me, jesus christ!” “ooo...........” yunho whistles and turns his eyes into the other direction. it was his way of showing through actions to mingi “you absolute complete moron.” mingi: so you good then?  mingi: you’re not sick or anything from my party right? y/n: nope y/n: nice talk mingi: uh yeah mingi: nice and that was the last message. “god, that was so exhausting,” you fall back onto your bed before you can scream even louder into your pillow. “dude, you’re fucked,” yunho smirks. “but hey, no date tonight? looks like we’re going to wooyoung’s pad tonight.” he stands up and pulls mingi up from the sofa. “wooyoung? what, are we watching movies tonight?” “no, party tonight. have you completely lost your sense of time?”  “oh,” mingi voluntarily nods. he kind of forgot wooyoung still held parties during the summer, but he was more focused at the fact that it’s almost been a week since the kiss. and going to this party became one of the worst decisions if not his life, then this summer. “truth or dare, mingi!” hongjoong, slightly tipsy, shouts amongst the crowd in the outside pool area. “aight, truth,” he raises his cup towards hongjoong. “do you think yerin really fucks with you in that kind of way?” hongjoong laughs and his friends around him echo that same laugh. mingi knows hongjoong wouldn’t pull those type of questions in front of his friends, but it geniunely made him think a little bit.  yerin cancelled almost every date this summer, and many of them are without excuses. mingi, being the gentleman he is, lets her and doesn’t ask why. but now, it’s reaching july, and the last time mingi talked to her one-on-one was at an awkward encounter at hongjoong’s place with all of her girl friends.  “i mean, yeah, why wouldn’t she?” mingi shrugs and smiles with the side of his mouth.  and that question lingered until later that night. mingi has been childhood friends with wooyoung. though they weren’t the closest of the bunch, their families were friends and they always ended up going on vacations together. it wasn’t until high school when wooyoung finally moved to mingi’s school and he immediately fit into his friend group as if he was the missing puzzle piece. he was sure the crowd-pleaser, but mingi knew he was an ambivert, and enjoyed a lot of his time alone, reading a book too. maybe that was why mingi thought he was so eccentric back when they were kids.  mingi was exhausted, but it was merely eleven. maybe thursday wasn’t his best party day? mingi: yo woo i’m coming up to your room mingi: i’m gonna play smash on your switch ok he ran upstairs and made a beeline to wooyoung’s room, clearly identified with a poster of the smiths taped up on the front of the white door. he rattled the doorknob and realized it was locked. “silly wooyoung,” mingi knew the trick since they were little. he shook the knob three times and then turned the knob counterclockwise completely until he heard some sort of cracking noise. what he didn’t expect to hear was a moan coming from inside the room. and he doesn’t wanna believe what he sees when he opens the door. “m-mingi.” wooyoung looks up from the bed with disgruntled hair.  and there lays yerin, literally fucking him on the bed mingi and wooyoung grew up on. “what the fuck.” “it’s not what it looks like.” “yeah, i’m pretty damn sure it’s not what it looks like when both of you look like you’ve been fucking each other for the past hour.” yerin and wooyoung look at each other after realizing that he’s right.  “min-“ wooyoung calls him louder this time. “fuck off.” mingi storms out of the house and goes out the back way so no one can see him leave. he’s always gone this way when he and wooyoung would go on late night skating trips back in middle school, but never in his life would he expect yerin and him together in that situation. angrily, he holds his driving wheel even harder with his fists hardening with each turn. before he gets home, he decides to drive around town, maybe grab a cup of boba before he heads home. anything to distract himself. he heads to the asian strip mall a couple miles away from his neighborhood and parks upfront to the boba shop. and there, he sees you. he doesn’t know whether or not he should be surprised, but it was extremely late and he wanted to ask why you were working this late during the summer. you notice him. and you notice how much longer his face had become since the last time you saw him. something must have happened. you knew that he didn’t even like boba that much! why was he here? “oh, hi mingi,” you gather the last ounce of respect you have for him and wave to him as if everything’s splendid. “hey y/n. could i just, uh, get a wintermelon milk tea. with boba.” “y-yeah. what’s good man? you never come here,” you refuse to make eye contact with him.  “yeah uh. rough night. why do you work here?” “summer job. late-night shifts pay more so i thought, hey, why not?” you smile. he hated the fact that you smiled like nothing was wrong all the time. except all the times you’ve smiled like that, there was always something wrong.  “can... c-can we talk? are you free?” mingi hands you his money. “oh! uh.. yeah, we can. i can’t take breaks during night shifts but whatever. there’s like 2 dudes in the back, we’ll be fine,” you grin. he never noticed how free-spirited you were until now, and it kinda makes sense from the way that you hated parties but you would much rather be down for cliff diving or late night drives to the city. “so uh, what’s good?” you try to make the atmosphere not awkward. especially the fact that you were still in your boba shop uniform and your hair was completely down, a violation if your boss ever caught you. “uh... god how do i even say this.” “no, take your time,” you smile. you were incredibly nervous. there’s no doubt he was gonna talk about the kiss again. why else would he look so down? “i kinda uh. caught wooyoung and yerin fucking in his bedroom during his party tonight.” fuck.  “oh, shit...” “god, this doesn’t even feel right, i feel sick.” “how’d you even end up there?” “i texted wooyoung that i was gonna go play smash in his room during the party.” “and instead, you ending up seeing him literally smashing your girlfriend.” “oh my god, if you put it that way,” mingi wanted to scream. you were laughing so hard and he was wondering how you could take situations like these so not seriously.  “yeah uh... i don’t even know what to say about this. my childhood friend and the girl i was in love with... literally hooking up.” “was?” “i hate to say this, but i think i’m falling out of love with yerin.” “that’s crazy. it can’t just be because of this,” and you’re hoping he still forgot the kiss. “yeah, you’re right. she’s been canceling every date, literally acting all embarrassed whenever i come hang out with her and her friends, and she just doesn’t feel the same.” “as in?” you hope that they hadn’t hooked up before. you knew mingi had strict parents from whenever you came over and did projects with him, and it probably took his parents a while to adjust to the fact that he was dating her in the first place. “i think i was just so over my head back then and i kept thinking that she was the one even though she didn’t do anything to me. hasn’t mina already told you this?” he seemed slightly annoyed that he has to say this to you, but you were more. “mina doesn’t have to tell me everything. i can get to know a person however way i want them to. but i guess we’re doing this in a boba shop,” you laugh it off. mingi liked that about you. you didn’t need anyone to tell you what to do and you gave zero fucks. “hey, come with me,” you guide your hands to the fire exit. “what?” “don’t ask. just come.“ you ran through the fire exit door (which surprisingly didn’t beep this time) and ran up the stairs, causing mingi to run up against you at the same pace.  “and welcome to my secret haven.” it was the roof of the three-story strip mall and you could nearly see the entire city from here.  “god whatever, i’m over this,” you take off your brown visor and apron with the boba shop’s logos on it and threw it into the direction of your backpack, which was already up on the roof. he somehow found it 10 times more attractive when you fixed your hair and laughed over your stupid boba shop uniform.  “i go up here almost every night when i get breaks to myself, and i don’t really talk to myself, but no one can hear you up here. so i SHOUT LIKE THIS!” mingi’s startled and you laugh even harder. “WHY LIKE THIS?” “BECAUSE I CAN TELL PEOPLE TO FUCK OFF AND THEY WON’T KNOW!” then mingi starts cracking up and you see that classic eye smile. if only he knew how hard your heart was beating. she was living her kdrama cliche right now. the dude that she’s given up on is suddenly giving interest to her and it feels so out of place. “whenever i got fed up at home with my parents, i would go to work then come up here. i would just scream these long strings of curse words until i got exhausted.” “it’s really pretty up here though,” he looks around the entire rooftop, then back to you.  “yeah... a lot of my emotions were just spilled out here and i’m glad they did.” “what about the night i kissed you?” and there it was. “the night i- what?” “don’t lie to me, y/n. i know you weren’t drunk.” mingi didn’t look at you. it was silent for a moment. “i lied because i was so fed up over the fact that i probably made you so uncomfortable...” your voice faded into the night air.  “why?” “because you were literally dating the love of your life, what the hell was i supposed to say to justify an entire kiss?” mingi almost laughs. “can’t wait to hear what yerin has to say about her and wooyoung hooking up. she would fuck anything with a pulse except me.” “listen, i’m sorry if i kind of left you hanging. we don’t even talk much, so it felt so out of place after that.” “we used to. so let’s make that change,” mingi suggested. “dude, if you want her to feel ok after what just happened, treat her well. take her to the mall or something and just make her feel like a good friend. she’s not your good old mina, but she’s done something that i know it would take a long time for her to forget. make her forget,” yunho tells mingi after he counsels him about the kiss. “what?” “we should just... talk more. maybe it wouldn’t have felt so weird and out of place if we actually talked. i’m sorry if i made you uncomfortable before,” mingi adds on to his long overdue apology. “no.. no it’s fine. don’t apologize,” you wave him off. “so we’re starting fresh? something like that?” “starting fresh.” you reach your hand out to signal him to shake hands with you, and he gives you a big, genuine smile. — two weeks later “oh my god, you’re joking.” “i’m not, look at this order!” a postmates order pops up on the kitchen ipad as you come running in. 20 whole orders of boba that have to be done by 8 pm. “an entire fucking fraternity just pulled up,” mingi laughs. “how are we gonna finish this?” you read over the entire order just to completely sure that there are twenty, two zero, orders of boba. “leave the newbies to do it and we run back up?” mingi smirks. you hate him. “mingi, you’re literally a newbie.” he shrugs and laughs as he rings up his last order of the night, that is, if he doesn’t take care of that fraternity order. “i’m just saying...” mingi opens up one of the cabinets atop the kitchen exit with his backpack and his nintendo switch peeking out of it. you grunt, but you seriously want to leave too.  “hey newbies?” two sophomores in high school turn around from behind the tea jugs.  “do you mind if we take our break for a little bit? it’s been a while. one of you take the cashier and one of you take care of the online orders. is that alright?” “yes miss!” you snicker at the “miss”. “no need for formalities. just call me y/n,” you grin and flip your hair back unintentionally as you take off your uniform visor. so fucking flawless. mingi thought to himself as he stared at you from the door. why were you so good at everything? and why were you so incredibly nice to everyone? except him, of course. it had been a week since mingi had called it off with yerin. it wasn’t really official, it was more like a breakup text that wasn’t really a breakup. it was essentially yunho and hongjoong giving emotional support to mingi as he wrote lame replies to explain to yerin that he wasn’t in love with her. it took a lot of manpower, but the job was done. what job wasn’t done was you working at your part time job at the boba shop. and what you didn’t expect was a day after being exposed by mingi about the kiss, the man himself walking in with a resume in his hand once he was accepted, he wanted to have as many shifts with you as possible even though you hadn’t been working there for long so you weren’t considered a senior. you also wondered why he wanted to have a summer job, out of all things, to spend one of his last summers as a teenager.  “imagine this. huge letters on a newspaper. local asian fuckboy works at boba shop instead of having parties at his parents’ rich place because quote, he’s tired of it,” you sit back on the beach chairs you two set up on the roof a couple weeks ago. “i am! why don’t you believe me?” “you’re not me, mingi. you’re party animal mingi, the cool basketball player every girl looks up to both figuratively and literally because you’re a living tree.” “i mean... so?? it’s nice to have a break since i’m done with my exams and i can get extra money. and free boba, of course,” he still felt kind of flattered after you said every girl looked up to him. it was a stretch. “imagine needing extra money when your parents already have that much money...” you sighed. he threw a piece of popcorn chicken at you. “shh. watch the movie.” you guys decided on “the interview” tonight. every night shift, you guys alternate on choosing movies on netflix to watch on your laptop up on the roof. things have changed for the better or worse. it’s only been a couple of weeks into summer now, and your life has been surrounded by mingi. same goes for mingi. all his parties have been cut down to night shifts with you, shopping for his dog and his own wardrobe with his personal stylist (you), and even driving to summer classes with you. just when you thought you could finally get rid of him, he becomes your honorary annoying best friend. though yunho and hongjoong were rooting him on, they didn’t expect him to be so involved in it. when he forcibly apologized to wooyoung and he did the same, things with yerin were still uncomfortable. to make things easier, mingi announced to everyone that he would never date her ever again. and although wooyoung doesn’t want to lose mingi’s trust, he knows. mingi knows that they’ve been secretly going on dates ever since the apology and not much as changed. so much for a girl and his childhood best friend, huh? mingi meanders over to check his phone and sees that some of his group chats have blown up. “yo, fourth of july is tomorrow. i think wooyoung wants a party,” mingi nudges. “sure. i mean, not at his house. ptsd for you,” and then mingi remembers the situation all over again. “god, yeah. my place then?” “sure. haven’t been there in a while,” you laugh. the shift ends in less than 30 minutes and the two of you have missed nearly the entire shift. you take the back entrance and wave him goodbye as he’s assigned to lock up for the night. you drive back to your house to see your older brother already asleep, the rest of your parents out of the house to visit family up in the city. the lame excuse of “college preparations” was how you escaped a week-long trip upstate to do nothing but babysit your cousins. mina 🤢 is calling... you take a beeline to the almost entirely dark living room and fall on the couch to pick up your friend’s call. mina? Y/N WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN ? I’VE BEEN CALLING YOU ALL NIGHT what? girl i- you open up your phone app during the call to see 8 missed calls from the devil herself, mina. oh shiiit. sorry dude, i was at work. work? this late? i thought the shop closed at 10. nope. closes at 12, mingi locked up for me so i’m home a little earlier. well.  mina seemed fazed by you and mingi and more concerned about her “issues.” anyways, i was TRYING to call you because i had a little emergency. you worried a little bit since she had been in quite a serious of a relationship with her boyfriend. oh, what’s wrong? well nothing’s wrong. actually, i know this is something you’ve wanted to do for a while since we’ve made our freshman bucket lists. remember that? you laugh softly into the phone and nod, forgetting that mina can’t see you. anyways, my boyfriend wanted to take me down on the coast highway after the 4th of july party that wooyoung? i think, is holding. you know him right? man, do you. we wanted to watch the sunrise together and bring a couple of friends. mina, that sounds fun. you’re right it’s been on my bucket list for a while. great! oh, not great. right. your ass took 70 years to reply so my boyfriend already left town and his sister doesn’t want to take us. no hard feelings of course, but it’s kinda awkward when this was meant to be a romantic thing and with you of course. oh. mina! why’d you tell me?? i don’t know, maybe we should keep this on a tab. don’t forget about it, and you should definitely have someone to go with next time besides me, if you know what i mean. i don’t, mina. i wanna go with you! these were my teenage plans with you back then. sis, you might wanna check your notes. you got up and turned on the kitchen lights — not the living room lights because they were way too bright and you were planning to knock out on the couch immediately after this call — to open up your notes and read better. you scrolled through the long checklist that had been updated constantly throughout your high school years, to find “drive up the highway and watch the sunrise with my s/o <3” in bright orange text, somewhere embedded in the even longer bucket list.  oh god. how do you even remember me writing this? you’ve been wanting this ever since you’ve been wanting a solid relationship with someone. and when you did have a boyfriend, this never worked out so... mina! sorry sorry! i’m just saying... keep it in mind. mina, i’d still love to take you tomorrow after the party because yes i’m dying to see this sunrise but. you have someone, i don’t. we’ll save this one for next summer, ok? before you can let mina finish, you say goodnight. wait, y/n! you cut her off and turn off your phone.  sweet dreams, you whisper to yourself as you delve deeper into your couch. then the annoying marimba ringtone of your generic iphone rings once again. mina- mingee the frog is calling... mingi? yo, can you take the shop keys for tonight? i feel like i’m gonna misplace this with the party being tomorrow. oh, oh yeah, sure.  you straighten yourself up and (finally) turn on the living room lights. you can come over now, i’ll be at the door.  actually, i’m already in front. WHAT? you run to your front door to see mingi in (not but maybe) your favorite black hoodie and keys in his right hand in front of. no. you unlock the door and jog out in the freezing midnight mist. “SONG MINGI! the ROVER?” “what’d you think, huh? thought it would be good revenge against wooyoung. gotta take her for a ride one of these days before i leave,” he laughs. mingi spins the lanyard of keys in his fist in resemblance to a teenage girl who just got her license and you immediately recognize that he’s only carrying wooyoung’s lanyard and not the lanyard with the shop keys. “where are the shop keys?” you tilt your head.  “gave them to the sophomore who took care of the frat orders. now, the range rover. isn’t she a beaut,” he steps away from the huge car and shows it off like a golden trophy. you facepalm and know that he only brought you out of your house to show you that he had balls to steal from his own (also rich) cousin. “ok and... what about it? it’s cold mingi, go home,” you yawned and waved him off even though you weren’t that tired. you exaggerated because you just wanted to be in the safety and comfort of your own home. “come with me.” “what?” you turned around. “come with me. i’m still super awake because i put like, 4 shots of monster in that last cup of boba i had,” mingi points to the empty boba cup in the white range rover’s cupholders. “mingi, very funny. now drive yourself back to wooyoung’s house before he beats your ass and go to sleep. you have a party to plan tomorrow, don’t you?” “i don’t plan parties, babe, i just let them happen,” your heart skips over the slight pet name mention. you don’t wanna reply and hope your speed walk back to your door will make him go away. “oh and... your bluetooth is still connected to wooyoung’s car from last time he gave you a ride. not sure when.” “oh, sorry. disconnect me, would you? good night, mingi,” you bow and wrap your hands around the silver knob of your door. “i might have heard you and mina talking.” you stop.   “and... i might have heard about you wanting to watch the sunrise. with someone. preferably someone who could drive you up there who isn’t mina or her boyfriend.” you want to smile, but also kind of scared that he heard everything you said to mina. you still don’t look back at mingi. “so here i am. making an excuse to be at your house at 1 am to drive you to the beach until sunrise using wooyoung’s car, in which i’m gonna get killed for anyways.” “mingi, just go home.” your sudden sternness as you look into his eyes comes out of nowhere, maybe out of anger. held back feelings. it comes off as rude. “see you at the party tomorrow,” you finally step into the house with the door unlocked. “i’ll let you listen to my playlists because i know you secretly like them. i’ll let you wear my hoodie. i’ll let you lie down next to me watching the stars because i don’t wanna be anywhere else when i’m near you.” you close the door. “song mingi, is this how you asked out yerin? am i just your emotional fill-in for yerin?” the way you said his full name shocked him. you’ve called him everything for the past month except his full name. but everything he just said about you made your heart race faster than it did in years. the atmosphere was stiff despite the sudden one-sided confession. “i-“ “i’m kidding with you, jesus christ, kid. you should have seen the look on your face. and thank you, i’ll be taking your hoodie, it’s getting cold,” you lock the door behind you and run up to mingi. mingi’s left breathless. y/n is nothing but trouble for him. you run into the shotgun seat and grabs the black screen printed hoodie on the seat. it’s from a j cole concert he went a couple years back and it still smells like good old mingi. you don’t want to say it, but you want to keep it forever. you also don’t wanna say much in general, because mingi may or may have not just confessed to you. “sunrise is at 5 am. you ready?” he jumps into the driver's seat with nothing but a smile on his face as he sees you already in his hoodie. “born ready.” he starts the car and backs up from your driveaway, and puts his arm on the back of your head cushion to see behind him.  “oh-“ and your horny ass thought he was about to pull you in for a kiss because of the vicinity his body was to you. “what?” he turns around, knowing exactly what he just did and smirks at your flustered face.  “nothing. just hope my sister doesn’t kick me out for coming back at home at literally 7 am.” “don’t worry, just sleep over at my house after and say you accidentally knocked out after work,” he shrugs as he leaves your neighborhood and enters the junction into the larger highway towards the city. “i feel like she already heard me coming home...” “so? i’m sure she wouldn’t mind you coming home from a guy as good looking as me,” you wanted to throw up but still had the urge to keep looking at the way he drove the range rover like a master. this was only his second time driving it, but you didn’t need to know. you spent the rest of the half hour drive listening to his night playlists (undoubtedly some of the best songs that you both know and like) and stop by a 7/11 and a couple of gas stations for some snacks and soda to take to the beach. by the time you two reach the coastal highway, it’s almost 3 am (oddly) and the highways are almost completely empty.  when mingi sees you rapping along and holding his hoodie tighter, he wants to say something but he can’t. it’s the wrong timing. he’ll have to wait just a little, but he hopes you still want to return the half-lived confession. “couple more hours. what are we gonna do?” mingi asks over the music.  “i don’t know. talk. walk around the coastline. push you into the water.” “if you do, i’m gonna make sure you do bathroom duty next shift,” mingi threatens with zero intention because he knows he really wouldn’t. the kindness he felt towards you had also occurred out of nowhere and it felt way too foreign. “i’ve never done this before so... enlighten me, lover boy.” “who said i’ve done this? only i would take your lanky ass to the beach at 3 am because, wait-“ he rolls down the windows and turns down the music. “smell the air.” you both take deep breaths in of the cold, salty air and grin. you’re so grateful to be alive right now. mingi turns and stops by the side of the cove to drive down to an empty parking lot. the beach is closed so mingi will manage to park in front of the huge beach mansions on the side of the streets. rich people won’t care about another rich person trying to park in front of their house now, will they? it’s almost 4 and it’s beyond freezing now. as you both exit the rover, mingi grabs his keys but notices you slowly walking out of the car without saying anything. “still cold?” “... uh... just a little bit,” you say slowly, hoping that mingi won’t even be able to comprehend you. he walks to the back of the car and opens the trunk with a button on his keys. there inside the trunk is a stack of blankets, food from the convenience stores, and his backpack. on top of the blanket stack is your favorite blanket that you left on the boba shop roof since it was your favorite. “song mingi. have you been planning this ahead of time?” you laugh at the sight. he rolls his eyes cutely and shrugs while mouthing i dunno.  you walked down the side of the street while still looking at him. he could feel your gaze as you walk down towards the beach, but at this point, both of you were too nervous to say anything. you find a spot mid-way to the coast and the fencing off the cliff of the beach and set down all your stuff. it was nearing 5 am and you noticed the sky getting lighter. you were also extremely exhausted, but you let it pass. as you yawned and put down all the blankets, your first move was to lay down and close your eyes.  “hey don’t sleep yet!” mingi threw a pillow at your head.  “i’m tired as fuck, leave me alone,” you groaned as you pulled his hoodie tighter and turned your body to the side. mingi sat down and made the area around you comfier, then pulled out another blanket to put around himself.  he checked his phone for the time, then looked towards the horizon. “ya... ya! it’s almost sunrise!” you were still facing the other way. “oh my god...” he said in the worst accent possible as he tried pushing you off the blanket. “y/n!” at this point, you knew you were just teasing him. but instead, he pulled your arm closest to him, hoisting you up, but all too fast that your entire body was within 1 cm of his, too close for comfort. “u-uh, i,” you said as his face was a little too close to yours, all while you attempted to look away at the sun that was beginning to rise up the horizon. mingi knew it was now or never. and he wasn’t gonna let you have the chance of initiating it again. “y/n.” you looked back at him dumbfoundedly. he had been staring at you this entire time, right until he pulled the side of your face closer and crashed.  his lips meeting yours wasn’t foreign at all. despite the spontaneity of the last instance, both of you still remembered the taste of it. and both of you secretly wanted it again, so badly.  you were still shocked at how fast he managed to do that, but you regathered your senses and wrapped your arms around his neck to pull him closer.  shocked at the movement, mingi pulled away from the kiss and looked at you. “wait wait wait, hold on. do you even..?” your arms still hung around his neck as you gazed at him. “yes. a lot. for a long time. having to act like i didn’t care about you for the longest time was so exhausting. glad we’re on the same page now,” you winked and smiled. “oh my god,” he gazed at you with all the euphoria in his chest. how were you so perfect? and how was he so oblivious to how perfect you were for him this entire time? this time, he couldn’t hold back. he pulled you in even closer by holding your hoodie ties and deepened the kiss from last time. you closed your eyes immediately, and held one of your hands on his neck. his chest was bursting and although he couldn’t feel it, both of your hearts were beating erratically. you still couldn’t believe that the song mingi, the boy who you crushed on from the opposite side of your math class-then-turned somewhat enemies, is the reason for your happiness right now. mingi grabbed your hand and tightened it as he felt the cold within your palm. he pulled away again, but just to look at you and smile. he then turned towards the sunrise that had been going on the entirety of the confession, and the reflection of the warm hues that had been painted on of you. you were so beautiful in this light, and you never wanted this moment to end.  “so...” “so...” “wanna head back to my place and sleep over?” and you knew that that meant an entirely new definition of going back to his place now that you both have basically spilled your feelings to each other. “hmm... maybe.” you wanted to keep him guessing, just for fun. he stood up and picked up his blanket. “alright then, i’m leaving,” he started turning away. “okok, i’m joking, take a joke,” you giggled and stood up. you ran over and tippie toed so that your arms could reach around his neck. you placed a kiss on his cheek and smiled even more brightly than before. he smiled back. he was so lucky to have you, and you wanted to know every single part of him as you fall deeper and deeper into him.

—

a/n: hi ! my name’s chae and this is my first writing published on tumblr. because this is my first work, please excuse any grammatical mistakes and writing errors!! ive been reading fics and au’s for a while on tumblr for a number of kpop groups, but i hope that i can debut some of my blurbs on here in the future.

please like and reblog if you enjoyed reading this, it’s gonna help me a lot in the long run : ,,)

also my requests are open!! i don’t have any restrictions on what prompts/pairings/groups are allowed right now, but i mainly write reader x, and my ult groups are ateez, skz, and x1/produce male trainees (see header).

[caelesjjk]

crave | a.i. (bodyguard!ash)

I can’t even believe that I finally finished this y’all. It’s a fanfiction miracle. I hope you enjoy, let me know what you think! And I’m linking a tiny playlist you can listen to while you read. It’s basically the three songs that got me to push through it.

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5jfFaDzJCXnJsPYFG23a2D

“I crave a dangerous kind of love. One that breaks hearts and bed springs.” –michael faudet

Rosalie Daniels was not the perfect daughter her father thought she was. While she was away at college, she did everything she knew he would hate. She partied too much, skipped class too much, and used her father’s influence to pass some classes. It wasn’t that she wasn’t smart enough to do it on her own, she just couldn’t be bothered to stay in the perfect mold of a daughter she was expected to be any longer.

Her father was the Governor of New York. Richard Daniels was amazing at what he did for the State of New York, but he was an oblivious father. Rosalie had been away at school for four years now and she wasn’t even sure he had noticed all the letters from the university informing him of all of his daughters misadventures. Or maybe he chose not to. As long as Rosalie stayed out of the papers and off the internet then he wanted to stay oblivious.

Now that she had finished with school, Rosalie was on her way back to New York. Until she figured out what she was going to do with her unwanted Business degree, she was going to have to stay at home. Despite her fathers insistence that she work for him, she refused. What she really wanted, was to photograph the world. Like anyone her age, she had the urge to see what else was out there. Life had so much more to offer than stuffy desk jobs for Rosalie. She just hadn’t figured out how she was going to break the news to her father yet.

The plane had just landed at the airport, and Rosalie suddenly felt nervous. She was nervous about seeing him. She wasn’t even sure if he still worked for her father, it had been two years since she had seen him. But still, the thought made her stomach churn. Ashton Irwin was part of the Governors security team, and when he started working for him six years ago, he had been assigned to be his teenage daughters bodyguard. He was determined to be the best damn bodyguard he could be, but then, in a whirlwind of unexpected events, he fell in love with her.

Not at first, no. At first she was the typical rebellious daughter of a diplomat. Constantly trying to sneak out to parties unprotected. She was utterly maddening, but on the nights he drove her wasted ass back from a party and she talked about the things she really loved, that’s how she got him. Rosalie Daniels was more than just the Governors daughter. She was beautiful and complex. She loved hazelnut coffee in her ridiculous mug she used just to piss off her father. It was black with the words “fuck off” scrolled across the side in white cursive letters. Ashton rolled his eyes every morning when she would sit down at the breakfast table with her father adorning that mug. But he also adored her for it.

There was a flower garden on the grounds that she was always dragging him to. She wanted to take pictures and rush to get them printed. She always had hundreds of prints scattered across her bedroom floor. It didn’t matter if the cleaning crew picked them up, they were back in a scattered mess as soon as she arrived home. That’s how Rosalie liked things, beautiful chaos.

When she went on dates, it was practically torture for Ashton. He didn’t know when it happened, but he cared about the girl he had been protecting for years more than just for the sake of his job. He hated the nights when he was positioned outside her door and he had to listen to her cry alone in her room. He never knocked to ask what was wrong, he didn’t think it was his place, but god he wanted to. He hated watching her at the parties he always gave in to. He was wrapped around her fingers and when she begged for hours for him to take her to the parties, he almost always did. Ashton kept an even closer eye on her, but in turn had to see her dancing with random frat boys and kissing them on the dance floor. He shouldn’t have let himself get in a position like he did, but it hadn’t mattered, after a few years she left for college. She came home for holidays the first couple years, but made excuses the last few to not come back.

To say he was nervous to see her now was an understatement. Ashton was waiting outside of the airport next to the car that would take Rosalie home. He had sent one of his colleagues inside to collect her off of the plane. He didn’t think he could keep his composure if he was the first thing she saw when she got off the plane. She didn’t know how he felt about her. How no woman he’s dated since she left is half as interesting or beautiful as she was. How no matter how many times he tried he couldn’t get her out of his head when he fucked them.

Rosalie was finally able to exit the plane, and as soon as she stepped foot inside the airport she was bombarded my paparazzi trying to get a picture. The prodigal daughter had returned and everyone wanted to run the article.

“Back off, please.” She tried to say politely, but they continued to crowd her. Rosalie tried to keep her face covered with her hoodie but it wasn’t much use. After a moment of panic, her arm was being pulled to the side by a man in a black suit and tie.

“This way, Ms. Daniels.” He said. Rosalie could see his nametag on the crisp black collar of this jacket and she knew he was one of her father’s security people. Just not the one she was hoping for. She nodded and let him lead her out of the airport and towards the front where the car was waiting.

Once she pushed her way through the revolving doors, her sunglasses covered eyes caught sight of who she had been hoping to see when she got off the plane. Ashton was standing next to the car with the door open. As soon as she reached him, his hand was on her lower back ushering her into the car.

“Welcome home, Rosie.” He said softly before shutting the car door. Rosalie was a bit stunned to hear the sweet nickname. He had always called her that before, but it was different to hear it leave his mouth now. She watched as he swiftly hopped into the passenger seat and the driver quickly pulled away from the airport curb.

Ashton was different now. Bigger. Broader. Bright red hair. But still the same soft facial features and kind eyes. Rosalie couldn’t imagine how he had gotten away with that hair while working for her father. If nothing else, Richard Daniels was overly formal. Whatever Ashton had done to be allowed to have bright red hair, she admired it.

“Can we stop for something to eat? I’m starved.” Rosalie finally asked after taking in a deep breath.

“There’s some salads in the bag behind my seat.” The driver said, looking at Rosalie in the rear view mirror.

“Whoever told you she’d want salad after a long flight obviously hasn’t been around very long. Pull off at the Burger King on the next exit.” Ashton said, his eyes meeting hers in the mirror now. Rosalie tried not to smile, but it was impossible. He still remembered. Ashton’s dimpled smile appeared next, and Rosalie had almost forgotten how breathtaking he was.

After she was able to get some real food, Rosalie could feel a cloud of dread settle over her as they pulled up to the New York State Executive Mansion. It had technically been Rosalie’s home since her father had taken office six years ago, but it never really felt like home. Just an old empty house.

Her mother didn’t stick around when Rosalie was a child. When her father started his journey in politics, she took off. Not a word. And it was okay with Rosalie, she couldn’t even remember feeling sad about her leaving. Instead, she was raised by her father’s assistant, Natasha, and the cleaning crew. And thanks to them, she was raised to respect and appreciate all people as humans. She wasn’t always able to use that towards her father, but she did try now and then.

Ashton could tell that Rosalie’s mood had shifted as the car pulled up to the house. Her shoulders slumped and her pretty lips set into a frown. He wished there was something he could do to make her want to be here, but it had never worked in the past, and likely wouldn’t now. When the car parked, Ashton jumped out and quickly turned to open the back door for Rosalie, but she was quicker, opening the door herself and stepping out onto the paved driveway.

“I’m supposed to open that for you.” He said, watching as her eyes settled on the house in front of them.

“I’ve been opening my own doors for quite some time now.” Rosalie said, adjusting her bag on her shoulder.

“Doesn’t mean you should have to.” Ashton replied, motioning with his head for her to walk in front of him towards the door. She sighed loudly and began the short walk to the front steps. Ashton kept his hand on her lower back as he opened the door to the house and ushered her inside. Rosalie swore she could feel his fingertips burning through the thick material of her hoodie.

The entryway was the same it had always been. It was big, open and too quiet. There was a spiral staircase that led to the bedrooms upstairs and a few accent tables with outdated flower arrangements sitting on them. But Rosalie never found it to be very welcoming in any sense. She started to wonder if she should just turn back around and sprint out the front door but the warm voice of someone familiar kept her from doing so.

“I know what you’re thinking, Rosalie Daniels, and you’re not going anywhere.” Natasha said as she descended the staircase with a warm smile on her face. Her straight black hair was cut short and framed her face nicely as always.

“Nat!” Rosalie shouted, dashing towards the bottom of the stairs where she was quickly wrapped into a hug by the woman who raised her. She was the most motherly person in her life and she always made sure that Rosalie was taken care before anything else.

“How are you, darling?” Natasha asked, squeezing her arms around Rosalie once more before taking a small step back to look at her.

“Not exactly thrilled.” Rosalie scoffed. “Where is he?”

“He’s in a meeting in the conference room. Shouldn’t be in there much longer if you want to wait and see him.” Natasha explained, even though she knew better.

“It’s fine. I’m going to head up to my room.” Rosalie half smiled and gave Natasha’s hand a quick squeeze.

“Your dad wanted to make sure you knew about dinner tonight. 6:30?” Natasha’s voice was a bit wary as she watched Rosalie walk up the stairs, Ashton walking behind her with her oversized suitcase.

“Sure.” Rosalie said quickly as she reached the top of the steps.

The hallway leading towards her bedroom was lined with pictures of past governors. Not exactly a comfortable walk to make when Rosalie had been a drunk high school student attempting to walk a straight line down a long hallway. Rosalie had purposely chosen one of the rooms at the very end of the hallway when they first moved into the mansion so that she could be as far away from everything going on as possible.

“You’re okay, Rosie?” Ashton asked, making Rosalie jump slightly, forgetting that he was walking behind her.

“He hasn’t seen me in two years and he couldn’t be bothered to come to the airport? Or be around when I got here? It’s complete bullshit.” Rosalie stops in front of her bedroom door and turns to face Ashton.

“He wanted to…” Ashton started to say, but the look on Rosalie’s face made him stop his sentence with a sigh. “You’re right. It’s bullshit.” His long fingers ruffle through his red locks as he sits down her suitcase.

“It’s fine. I wanted to take a nap anyways.” Rosalie grabs the handle of her suitcase and wheels it through the door to her room.

“I’m just across the hall if you need something. Anything at all.” Ashton says, a small dimpled smile rising at the corner of his mouth.

“Thanks Ash.” Rosalie smiles back and then quickly closes the door. Her back presses to the door as she slides down it onto the floor. She was angry with her father, but she was also angry with herself for once again thinking he cared. She was also completely taken off guard by how strong her feelings for Ashton still were after all this time. It was too much if she was being honest.

Before the tears could start welling up in her eyes, Rosalie felt her phone vibrating in the front pocket of her hoodie. She pulled her bottom lip between her teeth and unlocked the screen quickly to read the text messages on her screen from her old friend Paige.

By the looks of the news, you must be home lol.

Just got back in town. Anything going on?

Huge party out on the Ferguson’s farm. You in?

Pick me up at 10. Park down the street.

I know the drill. See you then.

Rosalie closed her eyes and took a deep breath before standing up from her spot on the floor. She and Paige had always gotten into trouble in high school. Rosalie’s father was not a huge fan of Paige and the things she always seemed to talk Rosalie into doing. But that’s why Rosalie liked Paige, she didn’t care who Rosalie was.

A very long shower was the next thing on Rosalie’s list of things to do. She needed to wash away this day before she sat down to eat dinner with her father. Once she had almost run out of hot water, she quickly got dressed in something that she knew her father would disapprove of. Her denim jeans were tight and her tank was more than revealing. It was perfect.

When the clock flipped to 6:30, Rosalie made sure to take her time getting downstairs. Even then, when she got to the dining room Natasha was the only one there. Rosalie rolled her eyes, walking around the back of Natasha’s chair and flopping down in the one across from her.

“What is that?” Natasha almost choked on the tea she was sipping when she saw the outfit Rosalie was wearing.

“I could show up naked and he probably wouldn’t notice.” Rosalie picked up her fork and poked at the salad sitting in front of her.

“Please don’t do that.” Natasha teased, making Rosalie smile just the slightest.

“I make no promises for future dinners.” Rosalie said, sitting up from her slouched position and pushing the salad away from her. But before either of them could say anything else, Rosalie’s father came walking into the room with his security and associates in tow. Richard Daniels always did know how to ruin a moment.

“Hello, Rosalie. How was your flight, darling?” He walked behind her seat and quickly bent to press a kiss to the top of her head. Rosalie rolled her eyes again as he took his seat at the head of the table.

“Hi dad.” She managed to say without too much sarcasm. Natasha giving her warning eyes the entire time.

“Tell me about school.” He says, not even making eye contact with his daughter.

“I graduated. By some divine miracle. That’s all there really is to say about it.” Rosalie slouched back in her chair again as one of the kitchen helpers brought out another plate of food and sat it in front of her.

“You’re a smart girl, it’s not so surprising.” Her father said, finally looking up from his plate to meet his daughters eyes. His same eyes. Practically the only thing she had inherited from him.

“Are we really going to keep pretending like you didn’t use your status to keep them from kicking me out?” Rosalie’s arms crossed over her chest.

“Rosalie.” Natasha said, more warning in her voice.

“There’s no reason to act this way at dinner, Rosalie. Drop it.” Her father said before going back to his food. Rosalie had had enough already. She pushed back in her chair until it fell backwards against the floor.

Ashton was standing in the doorway that lead to the hallway where the stairs were as Rosalie stormed passed him. He knew she was hurting, but he didn’t know how to fix it, or if she would even want him to. He waited until he heard her door slam upstairs before he moved. He heard Governor Daniels say something about her being a moody teenager, when she was in fact a woman. But he wouldn’t remember such things.

“Rosie?” Ashton said after knocking softly on her door.

“Fuck off, Ashton.” She yelled, slamming things around the room as she went. Ashton sighed and pressed his forehead against the door.

“Come on, Rosie. Let me in.” He could still hear her shuffling about the room. Then things went quiet for a moment and the door came flying open with a very angry Rosalie standing in front of him.

“You can come in, but I do not want to talk about my father.” Rosalie glared up at Ashton when their eyes met and he nodded in understanding.

“Do you want to tell me what you’re planning tonight?” Ashton asked as he walked across the hardwood floor and say on the cover of her bed. This was something that happened regularly years ago when the two of them were much closer.

“I’m just going to bed early, that’s all.” Rosalie lied, but she was never good at lying to Ashton.

“Now that you’ve gotten your bullshit lie out of the way, you want to try again?” Ashton raised one of his perfect eyebrows questioningly. Rosalie sighed and threw herself down onto the bed next to Ashton. He stayed sitting as she laid next to him, their thighs touching and warming each others skin through the material of their pants.

“I’m just going to a party with a few friends. I swear I don’t need anyone to go with me, I’ll be fine.” Rosalie said, gently pulling at the back of Ashton’s shirt so that he would lay back against the bed with her. He didn’t object in the slightest as his head laid next to hers and they looked up at the ceiling together.

This was something that happened pretty regularly a few years ago. Ashton knew he was overstepping boundaries by spending so much extra time with her but she was all he could think about then and now. He was there when she got the tiny rose tattoo just beneath her left breast and it felt so much more intimate to him than it probably did to her, but it was just another one of those things that made him love her all that much more. Rosalie Daniels was a force to reckoned with and Ashton constantly wished that everyone else could see her that way.

Rosalie’s whole demeanor changed when she was just lying here next to him. Their shoulders just barely touching. Ashton had been her place of solace when things started to get too much for her to handle. He always knew when to gently touch the small of her back and remove her from a room she wasn’t comfortable in. He knew when she needed certain things and when she didn’t. He probably knew what was better for her than she did sometimes, but he never made her feel that way.

“I don’t know, Rosie. You know I can’t let you go alone.” Ashton sighed and turned his head to look over at her pretty face. Such striking yet soft features.

“Do we really need to have the ‘I’m not a little girl” conversation?” Rosalie asked, still looking up at the ceiling. Ashton laughed quietly before he answered.

“I’m well aware that you’re not a little girl, Rosie. I just need to do my job.” Ashton watched as her eyebrows scrunched together slightly and her lips fell into a short lived frown. Rosalie always felt the slightest bit of a sting every time Ashton referred to her as work. But maybe that’s what she was to him. She shook if off quickly, sitting up to look down at Ashton’s face.

“You know I’m going with or without your permission.” Rosalie smiles softly and spends an extra few seconds soaking in the way his bright red curls pop against the white of her sheets. Ashton lets a dimpled smile spread across his face.

“And you know I’m just a phone call away.” Ashton says as he leans up on his elbow.

“Yeah, I know.” Rosalie pulls her bottom lip between her teeth while scooting to the edge of the bed so she can head to her closet. Without hesitation she pulls off the tank top she had been wearing with Ashton’s eyes burning into her bare back. He clears his throat and tries to look anywhere but at Rosalie.

“I should um…go.” Ashton scrambles up off the bed and wipes his nervous palms on the fronts of his black pants. Rosalie tried to hide her smile as she peaked over her shoulder.

“Bye Ash.” Rosalie pulled another top from her closet and slipped it over her head just as her door clicked shut after Ashton had stepped out.

By the time she had finished getting ready her phone was dinging with texts from Paige telling her that she was parked down the street waiting for her. And unlike most cliché scenarios that required the rebel daughter to climb out the window and sneak away, Rosalie simply walked out the front door. She wasn’t a teenage girl who required supervision anymore, but she still didn’t need her father or especially Natasha knowing she was going anywhere with Paige. So she walked down the dark sidewalk until she saw the flashing headlights of Paige’s car. Rosalie quickly slipped on her dark brown leather jacket just before she reached the car, opening the door with a wide grin on her face.

“Where have you been bitch?” Paige said, leaning over the console to hug Rosalie.

“Not here.” Rosalie gave her one last squeeze and situated herself in the seat.

“Being cryptic. I’m fine with that.” Paige smiled and started the car, driving towards the Fergusons farm outside of the city.

When they were finally able to find a parking spot the party seemed to already be in full swing. There was a huge bonfire and music blasting from a DJ system somewhere in a swarm of people. Rosalie started to get out of the car but Paige grabbed her elbow to stop her momentarily.

“Wait a second, I have party favors.” She smiled devilishly and wiggled her eyebrows while pulling a small plastic baggy from her coat pocket.

“What is that?” Rosalie asked, something telling her already that it wasn’t a good idea.

“It’s ecstasy of course. I got it for old times sake.” Paige opened the bag and shook one out into her palm, tossing it back into her mouth like it was the most normal thing. And maybe a few years ago it was, but even though Rosalie had partied in college, it was nothing like the things she and Paige did before that.

“I don’t know Paige. This is a huge party.” Rosalie felt more uneasy as Paige shook the bag once more and pushed her palm towards Rosalie.

“Alright fine, but you have to stay with me the entire time. No wondering off.” Rosalie took the small blue pill and stared at it a moment before she put it into her mouth and swallowed it down.

“Deal. Now, let’s get our asses over there.” Paige quickly got out of her car but waited until Rosalie did as well, linking their arms together and practically skipping over towards the crowd of people.

The night started off amazing. They ran into some other old friends from school and drank keg beer for hours. Rosalie felt like she was drifting above everyone else most of the night. She laughed and sang at the top of her lungs when the DJ played some of her favorite songs from all those years ago. It seemed like the night was going to go off without a hitch, until one word was shouted that no one wants to hear.

“COPS!” Someone screamed above the sound of the DJ. Everyone almost immediately started dispersing. They were either underage or had something on them that the cops didn’t need to find, so everyone was running.

Rosalie looked around frantically for Paige while her head was fuzzy and unfocused. She was nowhere to be seen. Rosalie started moving towards the area where she knew they had parked Paige’s car but she began to feel so dizzy that she had to stop. People were still shouting and pushing, and they kept pushing until Rosalie couldn’t keep her footing and she fell to the ground. It was muddy from people’s footsteps and it made it even harder for her to attempt to get back up on her feet.

“Paige where are you?!” Rosalie shouted, but it didn’t seem to be any use.

“I’m right here, Rosie.” The familiar voice said next to her ear, pulling her up from the ground by the elbow.

“Ashton? What…what are you doing here?” Rosalie knew she had obviously drank too much on top of that pill. Her head spinning.

“Did you really think I’d let you go somewhere like this alone?” His huge hands are cupping her face trying to get her to look at him, but she can barely keep her eyes open. “What did you take?” he asked.

“Nothing. It was just ex.” Rosalie smiled drunkenly as Ashton scooped her up beneath her knees and started walking.

“I’ve got you.” Ashton says into her ear as he carries her towards the black suburban parked in the lot.

Ashton sat Rosalie into the passenger seat, trying his best to keep her upright while he buckled her seat belt.

“You smell good.” Rosalie giggled while her face was buried in his shoulder.

“You smell like cheap beer and cow shit from being in this field.” Ashton teased as he finally got the seat belt in its lace.

“I do not. Stop that.” Her eyes fell closed again as she slightly slurred the words. Ashton shook his head with a small smile on his lips. He used his fingertips to push some hair away from her sleepy face and Rosalie instantly searched for more of his touch.

“Still beautiful.” Ashton says quietly, loving the way the dim overhead light casts shadows on her face. Rosalie hummed appreciatively at his fingers on her skin until he pulled them away and shut her door. Her eyes could barely focus on the bright red curls on his head walking around the car and getting into the drivers seat.

Rosalie slept most of the drive back to the house. She woke up long enough to realize that she needed Ashton to be touching her again and searched for his hand to hold in hers. He didn’t pull away, just let her hold onto his fingers as they turned into the driveway.

“Come on, Rosie. Let’s get you to bed.” Ashton tried to wake her with no such luck.

He pulled open her door and undid the seat belt, pulling her into his arms like a small child and carrying her limp body into the house. She groaned as he jostled her a bit walking up the stairs but she quickly fell back asleep. Rosalie Daniels was the only person Ashton could see himself taking care of this way, whether it was his job or not. He just wanted her to see that there was more for her than this partying type of life. She had so much to give to the world and she was wasting it by getting fucked up in the middle of field.

Ashton felt like he needed to bring her to his room so he could keep an eye on her. He didn’t want Rosalie choking on her own vomit or anything else he could not possibly fathom happening to her. At least that’s what he needed to keep telling himself to justify his selfish want of her in his bed. So he opened the door across the hallway from hers where he had been staying for last 5 years.

The walls inside his room were the usual dark blue that most of the other bedrooms were. All of them except Rosalie’s, hers was painted a horrid pastel peach color that she adored. Ashton never understood why she liked it so much when she had first painted it. But the more he saw her in that room, lying on her bed reading a book or staring down at her phone and the sun coming through the windows just right, it all made sense. Everything about Rosalie Daniels was pastel peach. It was beautiful in the oddest ways. And sometimes if he was lucky, Ashton would get to see glimpses of her beauty that she was willing to let him see.

“Need to shower.” Rosalie grumbled as Ashton closed the door behind him.

“Can you handle that?” He said quietly, walking towards his bathroom with her still in his arms.

“Mmhmm.” Rosalie hummed.

“Okay then, angel. Let’s get you in there.” Ashton slowly let her feet down so she could stand up on her own, but kept his arm around her waist while they walked into the bathroom.

With his hands on her soft hips, Ashton propped Rosalie’s tired and half drunk body against the vanity while he opened the shower door and turned on the water so it could warm up for her. Rosalie yawned and pushed her messy hair around on her head causing more tangles than before. A sudden pout appeared on her face as she lifted her arms above her head and looked at Ashton.

“Help me.” She said pitifully. Ashton could only smile. He approached her slowly, long fingers ghosting over her hips until they tangled in the material of her top and pulled it up and over her messy head of hair. She was completely bare beneath it, and Ashton had to use every ounce of strength in his body not to touch her soft skin.

“Ready to get in?” He asked her, eyes trailing up her torso until they were met by her waiting ones. Rosalie shook her head no, pointing to the button of her jeans.

“I don’t think I can do it.” Her voice was just above a whisper and her pretty bottom lip was pulled between her teeth. Ashton could practically feel himself about to explode and he’d hardly touched her. He watched her eyes a moment longer before his fingertips were sliding from just below her navel to the button of her jeans, popping it open until the zipper came undone as well.

“Baby girl…what are you doing to me?” Ashton whispered the sweet words the same time he was dipping his hands into Rosalie’s jeans and underwear swiftly pulling them over the curve of her ass. Ashton kneeled down on one knee in front of her to help pull them off of her ankles. Now Rosalie was the one on the verge of exploding.

“Do you want to come in there with me?” Rosalie asked with a slight hiccup at the end. She leaned forward slightly so her hands could rest against Ashton’s strong chest. She managed to pull open one of the buttons on his shirt and Ashton’s eyes fell shut.

“As much as I would love to…I won’t be doing anything like that while you’re fucked up.” Ashton’s hand wrapped around Rosalie’s and moved them away from his chest so he could take a step back away from her.

“Are you serious?” She hiccupped again, stumbling slightly on the bathroom rug.

“Have a shower. Then we can talk.” And with that Ashton left the bathroom after he sat one of his clean tshirts on the vanity and quietly closed the door, listening to Rosalie mumble under her breath as he did.

After walking back into his bedroom, Ashton stretched his arms above his head, his tired and achy muscles protesting a bit. He had been standing practically all day, back and forth with the Governor to different places until he had to go to the airport to pick up Rosalie. He may have volunteered to do so all too willingly. He carefully undid the rest of the button on his shirt, all the while thinking about the way Rosalie had just been doing this same action. He had somehow kept his composure in front of the girl he loved while she was completely naked in front of him.

Ashton dragged his tired body over to his bed, flopping down on his back with his arm behind his head. His eyes closed and listened to the sound of the shower running in the next room. He wasn’t sure if she would want to talk. But he hoped she would still give him a chance to finally tell her how he felt, because there was not a chance of going back now. Deep down, Ashton knew he should just be her bodyguard. He should protect her and keep her safe from harm and leave it at that. But if there was just an inkling of a chance that she felt the same way, the bigger part of him wanted to take that chance.

Just when we could feel himself begin to drift to sleep, the water turned off in the shower and Ashton was alert again. Patiently waiting for Rosalie to come out of the bathroom. There really wasn’t any mentally preparing himself for this.

The sound of the door opening startled Ashton a bit, and the sight of steam rolling out of the bathroom in the dim light had him almost squinting to see where she was. Rosalie stepped out, but didn’t make eye contact with Ashton. He could tell she had sobered up a bit by the way she carried herself towards the bed. She flopped down on her stomach on the bed next to him, the tshirt of his that she was wearing just barely covering her delicious curves. Her face was turned away from him and her wet hair was sprawled across his pillow.

“C’mon Rosie. Don’t be angry with me.” Ashton scooted a little closer to her on the mattress.

“Angry? I’m not angry. I’m embarrassed. And yet, I couldn’t bring myself to go to my own room.” Rosalie says, still facing the other way.

“Don’t be embarrassed. I just…if you want me…I wanted it to be when you’re sober.” Ashton said, his palm coming to rest on the small of her back. She took a moment to think about his words and how they erupted butterflies in her stomach before swiftly turning over on her side to face Ashton.

“Do you want me?” Rosalie asked, her voice quiet and a bit shaky.

“Everyday.” Ashton replied, his hand leaving her back to come to her face and cup her cheek.

“Why did you wait so long?” Rosalie moved her body until it was flush against his.

“Just your bodyguard, Rosie. You deserve better than that.” Ashton looked away from her eyes as he spoke but Rosalie had her fingers under his chin pulling them back to her.

“I know I’m a disaster…” She whispered, pulling her lip between her teeth the way she always did when she was nervous.

“Beautiful disaster.” Ashton added, making Rosalie smile and shake her head.

“I don’t deserve you, Ash. All the shit I’ve put you through. I’m sorry for all of it.” She looked up to meet his eyes, taking a deep breath. “But I’m not sorry for this.” Rosalie moved her free hand to cup the side of Ashton’s neck and pull herself into position to press her lips to his.

There wasn’t an ounce of hesitation, because nothing had ever felt so right. Rosalie had pictured the way Ashton’s lips felt for as long as she could remember. And even after all those daydreams, it was nothing compared to reality. They were soft as they slotted with hers, molding together and making the most beautiful sounds she had ever heard. Ashton’s nose brushed back and forth with hers as they moved around until Rosalie was straddling Ashton’s lap. Their lips never parting in the commotion.

Her hands made quick work of pushing his shirt off of his shoulders and slipping it off of his arms. Finally able to slide her hands into his curls, she gripped at the strands until he was moaning against her mouth. Ashton’s huge hands desperately searched for the hem of his tshirt she was wearing and when he finally had it in his grip, he swiftly pulled the material over Rosalie’s head leaving her naked in front of him once again. He took his lips from her reluctantly to admire the perfection sitting bare on his thighs.

“Fuck, baby. Tell me what you want.” Ashton’s words were desperate as he sat up to wrap his lips around one of her nipples. Rosalie’s head lulled back and her hips ground down against his searching for friction.

The sun was starting to come up outside and a dull bit of light was coming through the thin curtains hanging over the windows, and Ashton wasn’t the slightest bit tired anymore. He felt Rosalie’s hands fumble with his belt, but eventually get it and the button undone. Their breathing mixed together when she brought her lips back to his while she finished pulling down the zipper. Ashton was so hard he didn’t think the confines of his underwear were going to be able to hold him much longer.

“Can I have you in my mouth?” She whispered the words against Ashton’s mouth and he almost came right there and then.

“I will never say no to that, angel.” They both smiled as Ashton lifted his hips and let Rosalie pull his pants and boxer briefs down his thighs and legs until they could be haphazardly thrown to the floor.

Rosalie didn’t find it necessary to waste any time when that’s all they’ve been all these years. Ashton’s cock was heavy in her hand as she moved her hand up down him, making sure to pay attention to the pretty vein running underneath it. Ashton twitched and moved his hips in rhythm with her hand. His moans were captured by her mouth on his momentarily. All too soon she was pulling away and moving down his body. She kissed a hot, wet trail down his stomach and over his hips. When Rosalie got where she wanted to be, she flattened her tongue against his shaft and licked a long stripe from the base to the tip where she stayed to pay special attention. Licking and sucking until Ashton could barely see straight. His hands gathered her hair into a makeshift ponytail so he could watch his cock disappear and reappear inside her magical mouth.

“Stop, baby. Please stop.” Ashton moaned barely holding it together.

“What’s the matter?” Rosalie looked up at him with the most innocent eyes while her hand continued stroking is ungodly hard cock. She was going to be the death of him.

“I want…oh god.” Ashton’s sentence broke off when her little kitten licks started in on his tip. “I want to fuck you.” He managed to get out. Rosalie smiled, pulling her mouth off of him and moving back to straddle his hips.

“Like this?” Rosalie’s hands were pressed flat against Ashton’s chest helping her hover above waiting cock.

Ashton took a minute to run his hands over the soft skin of her hips, slipping one between her legs to feel how absolutely soaked she was from just having him in her mouth. He dipped them inside making Rosalie grab onto his wrist, trying to get him deeper, that’s when Ashton couldn’t take another second without being inside her.

“This is going to be hard and fast. I promise to make it up to you over and over today, tomorrow, every day if you want it. But right now I need to sink so deep inside this pussy that you feel me in your chest, okay baby?” Ashton gracefully wraps his arms around her body and flips their body’s until Rosalie is pressed into the mattress beneath him.

“God, yes.” Rosalie wrapped her arms around Ashton’s neck and held on as he lined himself up with her and slowly pushed inside, letting her adjust as he went deeper. “More Ash, please.”

Ashton started his deadly rhythm, taking time to swivel his hips and hit spots that Rosalie didn’t know existed inside her. Her orgasm was building up so quickly that she could barely breathe. Small beads of sweat started to form on Ashton’s forehead as his pumps became ruthless. He could already feel bruises forming on his hips and Rosalie’s nails were digging long scratches and crescent shaped moons along the entire expanse of his muscular back. He bent down to kiss her moaning mouth and hold her hands above her head in a tight grip as he spilled everything he had inside her. Rosalie clenched around him and met her own high at just the same time.

Ashton’s sweaty body fell limp against Rosalie’s. He kissed her neck and her jaw while he tried to calm his breathing. She only wrapped her legs around his hips and pulled him tighter against her and they laid there like for what seemed like hours, the sun finished its trip above the horizon and beginning to shine brighter than it had been before. Ashton managed to lift himself enough to look down at the angel girl beneath him, all that soft morning light making her look every sense of the name.

“You’re okay?” He asked quietly.

“Perfect.” Rosalie answered, leaning up to kiss his swollen lips a few more times.

“I’ll get you something to clean up.” Ashton pulled himself from inside her, that feeling was something gloriously hot all in its own. He grabbed a wash cloth and brought it back to Rosalie so she could do what she needed to with it.

“Can I stay in here with you?” Rosalie asked, her head resting against her palm and elbow on the mattress.

“Any time you’d like.” Ashton pressed a kiss to her temple and pulled her up the bed until they could both slip under the covers.

“You won’t mind me being in your bed every night?” Rosalie buried herself in Ashton’s chest.

“Never. I’d prefer it really.” Ashton said, arms consuming Rosalie’s smaller body. “We just have to be careful, you know?”

“You’re afraid my dads going to fire you?” Rosalie asked.

“Or have me assassinated. One of those.” Ashton laughed lightly and Rosalie did the same.

“Don’t worry, I’ll protect you.” She pressed a kissed to his wonderfully hair covered chest, relishing in the feeling of it against her cheek.

“You’re my bodyguard now, baby?” Ashton asked with a huge smile on his face.

“Damn right.”

Tag list: @maoricth @slimthicccal @bbycal @kinglyhood @sugarcoated-pain @shower-me-with-roses @c-dizzle-swizzlex @calumculture @sugarcoatedcalum @calthesensation @cheyenne-in-wonderland @softboycal @moonlightcalum @unconditionalcalum @irwinkitten @singt0mecalum @angelbabylu @5sosnsfw @aspiringwildfire @myloverboyash @cal-puddies @lashtoncurls @kchillout @pinkbubbles-and-bigtroubles @callllumhood @sick-orca @lfwallscouldtalk

[supercasey]

What your RvB OTP says about you

((I saw a similar list, but it didn't include a lot of my favorite ships and also I thought this would be fun. Sorry if any of this offends anyone: it’s all in good fun and just some observations I’ve noticed over the years about certain shippers. Let me know if I missed any other big ones!))

FUCK I FORGOT SISTER AND DR GREY

Tuckington: Chorus crew is best crew. Wash and Tucker are your all-time favorites and you're so proud of how far Tucker has come. You probably hate/love Felix, there is no in-between.

Mainewash: You like to suffer; you have an addiction to fics that involve one of these two dying. You live for the Meta and Antagonist!Wash team-up. You probably ship Doc with them if you’re into polyam. Cat person.

Yorkalina: You adore York to the moon and back, and are honestly a sucker for “goofy person meets strict person and teaches them to have fun” pairings. You have a replica of York’s lighter that you’ve never used.

Grimmons: You deserve a Fandom Grandma/Grandpa mug, buddy. You’re so tired, and you’ve probably been here since at least season 6. One day it’ll be canon, you just know it. In the meantime, you’re suffering.

Churboose: My mom ships this so here we are. Caboose is the most perfect of good bois and you’re only watching rvb for him at this point. You’ve cried over Church every day of your life. You named a pet Freckles, probably.

Washlina: You are the most chill/sweet person in the entire goddamn fandom. Seriously, you’re so nice. You don’t care either way if it ends up canon, but the latest content is still very satisfying. You’re so kind, I love you.

Sargington: You’re having the time of your life and I’m so happy for you. Sarge is probably your favorite character, but Wash is a close second. You’re chill about other ships but this is the guilty fav; don’t feel guilty, you’re amazing.

Docnut: Precious cinnamon roll who is too good for this world, too pure. Doc when he’s doing the O’Malley voice is way too hot for you. You probably have written/daydreamed about these two having a farm together.

Pastrytrain: Congratulations for being a good person. The pinnacle of “I’m staying in my fucking lane” when it comes to fandom drama. I know you downloaded the Pastrytrain dating sim, don’t try to deny it.

Kimbalina: Never mind, you guys are the actual diehards for the Chorus trilogy. Carolina is your queen and she deserves the love that Kimball can bring into her life. That hand-holding scene is now your desktop background. Probably wlw.

Tucknut: Trans with an amazing sense of humor. You swear a lot and make more dirty jokes than you should, but people love that about you. Donut is your favorite but Tucker is funnier.

Churnut: Donut is your favorite. You hate that Church is dead and pray every single day that he’ll come back somehow. The Donut arc this season had you fucking THRIVING and I’m so happy for you.

Norkington: You’re either gay or trans or both, and that’s the tea. You’re still obsessed with the PFL seasons, despite how long it’s been. Your favorite version of Wash is the PFL rookie version.

Nork: Yeah, you’re gay, sis.

Flowarge: Where are y’all??? I know I’m not the only one. You want a sitcom of rvb that’s just Parks and Recreation but with power armor. Sarge is best dad and Flowers is your other, more dead dad.

Flyoming: You literally don’t need any canon evidence to ship something; if they breathe they’re in love. Florida is your fav, and tbh Wyoming isn’t even in the top ten, but you’re too into older men to care. Daddy issues.

WashCT: People claim you’re boring but tbh you have really good taste, everyone else just isn’t interested. Knives are one of your favorite things but odds are you don’t know how to throw them. You really miss CT.

SouthCT: The wlw energy is literally so powerful in your bones, congratulations. Team #SouthDidNothingWrong, as well as Team #CTDeservedBetter; you are correct on both accounts. South is best girl.

Southlina: Not sure where y’all are at, but you’re all about that powerful lesbian energy. You probably hate York; if not I’m sorry for saying that. On that note you probably hate the PFL seasons but you’re too desperate for content to complain.

Fucker: You little shit. You are 100% involved in fandom drama but you’re thriving regardless; it’s impossible for you to be affected by everyone telling you that you’re problematic. Tucker is your favorite, but Felix is hot af.

Locington: You say “Unfortunate” way too often but I love you nonetheless. You spent the entire hiatus between seasons 11 and 12 writing porn, and you damn well know. Hell, you’re probably proud of it. Locus is your fav.

Murdersandwich: Are you still here??? If you are, you’re braver than any us marine. Modern AUs where these three get together are your bread and butter. Tuckington is your second favorite ship.

Murdersandwich+Sharkface: You unapologetic, horny motherfucker. You’re living your best life while simultaneously sobbing into your pillow every night over Felix and Sharkface. Locington is your default fav, but this ship still rocks.

Lolix: Fandom veterans from the “Felix is problematic” wars and I salute you for your service. Here to have a good time, and ain’t nobody gonna stop you. You’ve probably written/thought about a “Felix lives” AU at extreme length.

Sharklina: Season 13 was so good in your opinion and you refuse to ever shut up about it. #SharkfaceDeservedBetter. You’re probably into punk aesthetics and you’ve made at least one playlist for these two.

Chex: #ChurchGetsPegged. Tex is your diehard fav and you will never in your life let RT forget that she exists. You’ll drag her out of her grave yourself if you fucking have to. You memorized Church’s speech from the end of rvb5.

Chucker: You cry each and every day about Church being dead. You’ve rewatched the BGC no less than twelve times, and that’s just this year. Everytime you see That Post, you reblog it. You know the one.

Sheipez: If Sheila were real you’d ask her to adopt you. Lopez is your current fav by default and you live for every moment he’s on screen. Caboose is your precious son and you’re willing to die for him.

Sex: You ship this purely because of the ship name. STFU, yes you fucking do. Tex is hot af and you love that one fancomic of sister without a bra on flirting with Tex.

Sucker: Despite popular opinion, you're not as horny as everyone thinks you are. Sister is your favorite and Tucker isn't even close but you love him regardless and think he fits well with Sister.

Suckington: I know you bastards are still here. Wash is your favorite but you love him being surrounded by these energetic shitheads who fill his life with energy and fun. Sister is best girl.

Greyington: I know for a fucking fact that this was a thing. Fucking sadist when it comes to your brand of porn, and Dr. Grey is your favorite character to ever exist.

Kimbones: You knew fuck all about Ladybones but you shipped her with Kimball anyways because you're a thirsty wlw. You've probably moved onto Kimbalina by now, but we will not forget the season 11-12 horniness you unleashed on this fandom.

[coffee-obsessed-writer]

When You Least Expect It, Part Fourteen

Jensen x Musician!Reader

Masterlist - Contains Chapter Links & Wardrobe Collages

A/N: This is a slow burn fic that I have been working on for a while. Its a story I wrote for myself and just wanted to share with everyone. Yes, the “Dee” in the story is who you think, but there is no intended hate on her or their actual marriage. It is a work of fiction, that is all. There is also a playlist to go along with the series.

Spotify Playlist:  

Chapter Summary: Jensen takes Y/N away on a surprise vacation.

Chaper Warnings: Floof, Smut, NSFW 18+ Only

WC: 6.9K

Series Beta’d by the beautiful @closetspngirl

“I can’t believe you did this,” Y/N breathed, still awed by the lengths Jensen went to for their little getaway. “For three days, you sure did go through a lot of trouble.”

“Three days is more than enough to be sure you have a good time. But you have to promise me, no work, no business of any kind… and definitely, no calls from Robert.” Jensen raised his brow at her, and she playfully rolled her eyes. 

“Jealous?”

“No,” Jensen scoffed and waved her off as if she was being ridiculous. “Well… a little. But! Not for the reasons you think.”

“Oh come now, you couldn’t possibly be jealous of that sweet, blue-eyed boy, could you?”

Jensen rolled his eyes dramatically and sighed, causing her to laugh out loud in the back of the town car that carried them from the airport to their final destination. As if on queue, her phone rang from somewhere in her bag on the floor. She bent to retrieve it, and Jensen yanked her back up towards the seat and sent her crashing into him. Y/N laughed harder and Jensen wrapped his arms around her waist and held her close to him.

“What did I just say, Trix? Seriously, woman!”

“Okay, okay!” she said, tapping his arm to release her. “I give! I will turn the damn thing off for a few days, alright? I just want to check to make sure it wasn’t Briana or Mama, and I cross my heart I will leave it off unless we are taking pictures.”

“Pictures? Pictures of what?”

“Us, dummy.”

“Oh no… no pictures allowed,” he shook his head, his mouth engaged in a frown of disapproval.

“But it’s our first real trip together, how can we skip pictures?” she whined, in the way that he knew she was being purposefully pouty. 

“Because,” he started, then leaned in close, pinching her chin gently between his fingers and smiled before kissing her lips softly. “I don’t plan on doing much with clothes on, and we don’t need photographic evidence of that.”

Y/N’s demeanor changed immediately; gone was the pouty, exasperated girl and in her place a new side of her that Jensen had only caught glimpses of. 

“But...” she said, placing her hand on his knee, “the pictures and videos will make it fun for when we get home to reminisce with.” She wiggled her eyebrows as her hand traveled up his thigh, sliding between his shorts and his skin, making its way towards his boxers. Y/N leaned over to kiss his neck as the tips of her fingers found the soft, pliable flesh of his balls beneath the cotton hem. 

Jensen inhaled sharply when she touched him, his eyes immediately going towards the front seat and the driver who was there, thankfully not paying attention, then to her, and the devilish grin spread across her glistening lips. 

“What got into you?” he asked lowly, his nearly euphoric smile was tempered but visible. “Not that I mind, but…”

She shrugged. “I feel like maybe I haven’t properly thanked you for the vacation--”

“We just got here.”

“So?” she shrugged one shoulder, causing the strap of her bra to slide out from under her tank top and down her arm. Jensen eyed the lines of her shoulder up towards her neck then down her chest to the more visible curves of her breasts and desperately wanted them to be in their room already. There was still an hour to go before they reached the Jersey shore, and even longer until they would be alone in their suite at The Grenville. 

“So, maybe when we get there the first thing we do is make sure our bed is comfortable… and then, then we can go do whatever it is you want.”

“What if all I want to do, is you?”

“Jesus… where have you been all my life?” he asked, his green eyes settling on hers and admiring the sheen of defiance he found in them.

“Waiting for you to come and find me,” she replied softly and kissed his lips. “But, you’re right. We’ll be there shortly. What’s an hour?”

 They barely made it into their room at Leo’s best bed and breakfast before their clothes flew off in every direction. Jensen made quick work of taking her to bed, and Y/N certainly didn’t argue. They stayed there for several hours, sweaty and spent, yet continued to find ways to reinvigorate the other for another round. Before they realized it, the room had grown dark from the sun setting across the bay and if not for the deep rumble of Jensen’s stomach, they may not have even noticed that. 

“Food… sustenance... Trix, please. While I am loving this new side of you--”

“New? Who said it was new?” she asked, sitting up in bed and pulling the thin cotton sheet up to cover her breasts. “This is always been me, Jay. It’s just not a side I’ve shared with many people.”

Jensen considered what she said for a moment, and smiled ruefully. “What about Robert?”

She rolled her eyes so hard, she purposefully fell over sideways to exaggerate how ridiculous he was being. “You’re dumb.”

“Maybe, but I’m your dummy,” he teased, making her smile and snuggle into him despite the growing warmth of the room. “What do you say we get dressed, and you take me down to that boardwalk of yours. I’ve been dreaming of a sausage sandwich and a funnel cake for months now.”

“Alright then,” she said and leaned herself on one elbow so she was hovering over him. “Get dressed cowboy, let’s go walk the boards.”

Jensen barely had a foot on the pavement before he inhaled the delicious aromas of the boardwalk. The mix of fragrant foods made his stomach growl fiercely, and his head was swirling with all the choices that were laid out before him. On the short drive down the strip from where The Grenville lived in a quiet, less populated area of town to the boardwalk proper, Jensen talked endlessly about all of the choices they had to pick from. 

Y/N listened and chuckled to herself as he went through all the cuisine he had tried that on the trip out last autumn. Funnel cake, sausage and peppers, pizza, fried Oreos, zeppoles, saltwater taffy, burgers, and thick-cut steak fries, not to mention the two-story Mexican restaurant with rooftop dining that offered a sensational look over the ocean.

“While it’s not humanly possible to eat all of those things in one night, I am sure that there is plenty of time to fit it all in over the course of three days,” she teased, ignoring the huff of frustration he expelled. 

“I know, but where the hell do you even start?”

“Midway. I need a sausage sandwich. Finger’s crossed, Javier is there tonight,” she sighed and crossed fingers on both hands. 

Now, as they walked the short distance from the parking lot, to where the ramp led to the boards, he was squeezing her hand and nearly yanking her up the planks and straight towards the Midway Steakhouse. 

“Javier!” Y/N exclaimed as they reached the counter of the booth. “How’s it going, my friend?”

“Y/N! You’re back! Didn’t think we’d see you back here this summer,” Javier beamed and leaned over the line to throw a quick peck on her cheek. “Festival’s still a go, right?”

“Oh, absolutely. Jensen and I are just here on a little getaway. Thought I would show him how Seaside does summer. How’s business?”

“Booming, chica. It’s booming, big time! Miguel, he’s been so happy lately, I don’t even know if that’s really my brother!”

Y/N laughed and searched the faces of the rest of the crew behind the line. “Where is the ole meanie, anyway? I haven’t seen him in forever.”

“Oh, it’s his night off. Lucky shit. Him and his girl are down in AC.”

“Awesome! So does that mean you’ll throw me some extra cheese on those fries?”

“Girl, you know I will,” Javier winked flirtatiously, then finally noticed Jensen standing beside her. “Hey man, how’s it going?”

“Great,” he replied through gritted teeth, unsure he liked how Javier was eyeing up his girl. 

“What can I get you guys, besides cheese fries?”

“Two sausage sandwiches with everything, please, dear. And throw in some of the poppers, too.”

“Damn, Y/N. This boy feeding you?”

“He is,” she said and wrapped an arm tightly around his waist. “But he also helps me work up an appetite.”

Jensen smiled wide, loving how she seemed so open and free with him and making him realize it didn’t matter how anyone looked at her; she was with him and that’s what was important. He bent down and kissed her, then looked back to Javier who was watching with a bit of surprise in his expression.

“Well alright,” he said finally and called back the order to the line cooks in Spanish. “Give me a few minutes, guys, it will be right out.”

Y/N and Jensen moved around to the side of the stand and watched the guys to go work on their order. After a minute, she turned to look out over the rest of the boardwalk and leaned against the edge, crossing her arms loosely over her chest. 

“So, whatcha think? Looks a lot different from when you were here last Fall, huh?”

“It’s amazing how this place comes alive,” he mused, taking in the sights and sounds all around him; bells and whistles from the arcades and games were ringing, laughter and cries from families passing by and underneath it all was the crashing of the ocean waves. “I can see why you love it here so much.”

“I mean, there are downsides, don’t get me wrong. But this will always be home,” she said softly, lost in a sea of memories just as big as the one that reflected back the light of the rising moon off to her right.

Jensen slipped an arm around her shoulders and gently guided her closer. She rested her head against him and despite the lively chaos around them, Y/N felt more at peace at that moment than she had in what felt like forever. 

Minutes later, Javier was calling her name and passing their food across the backside of the booth. 

“They had to clear the tables and chairs out for the summer, you know, but Ricky is managing over at Spicy’s tonight, I’m sure he’d letcha take the food upstairs and sit up on the roof, especially if you ordered a pitcher of margaritas. Slow times for them lately, with the new bars up on the north end.”

“Ricky?” Jensen asked, interrupting, knowing the name was familiar but having trouble placing it.

“Yeah, you met him when you came to the Bamboo for rehearsals. Remember?”

“God, yeah,” he laughed. “That feels like a million years ago.”

“He’s over there tonight. I have no doubt he’d love to see you,” Javier added, before quickly turning to yell something to the line cooks on the other side of the booth.

“Well then, I think that’s gonna be our plan,” she winked and took the bag of wrapped delicacies from him once he turned back around. “Thanks a million, Javier. What do we owe you?”

“Please,” he said and waved Jensen off as he went to reach for his wallet. “It’s on me. A welcome home dinner, mi amor. Just promise to stop by again before you leave town. Ok?”

“Absolutely,” she beamed and this time it was her turn to lean over the counter and kiss the big man’s cheek. “Thanks for this! Been looking forward to it for months!”

Looping her arm through Jensen’s, Y/N turned them from the Midway and started walking towards Spicy’s. Despite Javier’s claim of tough times, the main floor of the restaurant was full of patrons waiting--in some places three deep--round the large, mahogany bar. Not to mention a small bunch of people near the hostess stand waiting for a table to open up.

Ricky spotted Y/N first, but she saw him almost immediately after, then made her way through the crowd towards her old friend. 

“What on Earth are you doing here?!” he asked, a smile beaming from ear to ear. “Why didn’t you call? I would have saved you the best table!”

“Spur of the moment trip,” she shrugged and looked up to Jensen. “This one thought we needed an impromptu trip home.”

“On Labor Day weekend? Is he insane or just stupid?” Ricky asked, giving Jensen a curious glance but unable to keep the impish smile from appear from under his mutton chop mustache. 

“He just wanted the full Seaside experience, holiday weekend and all.”

Ricky nodded. “So, insane. I gotcha.”

“Any chance we could take these upstairs and snag a table somewhere?” she asked, holding up the bag. “I promise to order at least a pitcher or two of your top-shelf margaritas…”

Ricky sighed and looked at the smattering of people waiting for tables. He rolled his eyes dramatically. “I suppose, for you, I could make an exception. But! You have to promise me you’ll talk to Mama for me. She’s being a tyrant about rehearsals for this fancy festival y’all got going on. Woman is driving me mad.”

Ricky turned and nodded for them to follow as he lead them up the wide staircase that led to the restaurant’s rooftop seating but continued his rant against the matriarch of The Corsettes. 

“She’s been crazy, Y/N. I mean, you know how she gets! She’s so intent on perfection for this show in a few weeks. It’s honestly exhausting.”

“Yes,” she replied, understanding where he was coming from and how her friend could be. “I will call her and talk to her about not cracking the whip too hard.”

“Thank you. I know if anyone can get through to her, it’s you. Come on, I got the perfect out of the way place for you guys to sit.”

When they reached the top, Jensen paused for a moment to take in the view. The lighting was just enough to guide people and servers to the tables, but it didn’t take away from the beauty that he saw laid out before him. The full, pink moon hung low over the ocean, casting an expansive reflection on the slowly rolling waves. Off to the left, the glow of the rides on the pier were flashing with rainbow-colored lights, bouncing off the wispy clouds and spray against the pilings, while the screams and laughter of their riders were muffled in the distance. 

“Jay, you coming?” Y/N called out, pulling him from the mesmerizing view. 

He met her at the table and pulled out her chair for her, then sat down across from her. Before excusing himself, Ricky promised to have a server come by to bring whatever else they needed, including silverware, plates, napkins, and drinks. Once he had left, Y/N dug into the bag and pulled out all of the neatly wrapped food Javier had sent them off with. 

Jensen watched her as she set everything out, carefully opening each sandwich, then the fries and cheese. Y/N was completely in her element, and he loved seeing how she interacted with these people she’d known for a good portion of her life. From the moment they stepped foot in the vicinity of Seaside, that spark of life immediately reignited in her eyes. Maybe it was the salt in the air or the power of the funnel cake, but it was clear to Jensen that Y/N belonged there. Even if she didn’t currently reside within the town proper, this visit would surely replenish the spirit of the town that burned brightly inside her that made him sit up and take notice in the first place.

She must have felt him watching because she looked up just as she went to lick a dollop of cheese that had fallen on her thumb. Y/N chuckled, as her thumb left her mouth with an audible pop. 

“What?”

“Nothing,” he said absently and looked down at his food; his stomach rumbling to life again with the anticipation of tasting the greasy mess in front of him.

“Ooookay,” she replied, shaking her head and reaching for a thickly cut potato wedge that was oozing with bright orange cheese. “Oh my God, these are so bad for you…” Y/N shook her head in disgust, but it didn’t stop her from enjoying every last bite. 

“Don’t worry, I am sure we will work all this off later,” he teased, then picked up half of the overstuffed sausage and pepper sandwich. Jensen sighed with happiness as he sat back, savoring every second it took him to chew and swallow. “I know I said it before, but this is downright sinful. How do I convince them to permanently open one of these places in Austin?”

“It’ll never happen, Miguel will never, ever leave Seaside.” 

The waitress arrived, bringing the pitcher, two glasses and a variety of chips, salsas, napkins, and utensils. When she was gone again, Jensen quickly wiped his mouth and then poured them each a drink. He raised his glass, and Y/N followed, lightly touched the lip of her salted rim to his. 

“What should we toast to?” she asked softly. 

“To… a damn good time this weekend. Because honestly, we deserve it,” Jensen said, clinking his glass to hers. 

“Yes, I second that!” She laughed before taking a long sip from her glass then placed it back down on the table. 

“So, after we stuff our faces, what’s next?” Jensen asked before taking another monster-sized bite of his sandwich. 

“Games… arcade for sure. Maybe a few rides? That depends on how you feel about an hour from now,” she laughed and nodded towards the food. “But…” she started, then paused to take another potato wedge covered in cheese, “I would gladly pass up the rides for a walk on the beach. I love the feeling of the cool night sand squishing between my toes.”

“I promise nothing about rides. Even without stuffing my face full of this disgustingly amazing concoction, I don’t think I could do those.”

“And why not? Chicken?” she asked, challenging him seductively with her expression. Beneath the table, she kicked off her sandal and began to run her foot slowly up his leg. “Not even the Ferris Wheel? Maybe we get stuck at the top. No better way to kill time up there then by making out.”

“You know, sometimes, I think you’re only with me for my body,” Jensen replied sarcastically, feigning offense and taking another bite of his sandwich. 

“Mmhmm, especially after you’ve eaten your body weight in sausage, peppers and cheese fries,” she winked and followed suit by tackling her own sandwich. 

Jensen stopped mid-chew and just stared at her for a minute. “You’re incorrigible.”

“You made me this way.”

He stopped and considered her answer for a moment, then shrugged. “I’m good with that.”

A few margaritas later, most of the sandwiches were gone, as were the wedges and poppers. Both Y/N and Jensen were stuffed to the brim, and the idea of eating anything made them both feel queasy. 

“Maybe rides are out,” she moaned, leaning back in her chair and resting her arm across her stomach. 

“Yeah, I need to move around, but not strapped into some metal death trap that spins at an unGodly mile per hour.”

“Ugh, stop saying the word spinning,” she whined and pushed away the margarita glass. 

Jensen laughed, then moved back from the table and stood up. Just as he reached out a hand to help lift Y/N from the depths of her seat, the waitress came by with the bill for the drinks. After leaving the money, plus a generous tip for the waitress, they made their way back down the stairs and towards the boardwalk. 

Walking for a little while helped both of them feel more comfortable and within a half-hour of leaving Spicy’s, the thought of going on a few rides once again crossed Y/N’s mind. 

“Just one, please?” she asked, but Jensen was being stubborn and shook his head.

“Sorry, Trix. Not gonna happen. You want a stuffed animal? I’ll win you whatever you want--”

“I want… you to go on a ride with me. I promise you, its fuuuun! Yes, it spins, but it stays low to the ground and it plays music. You like music!” she said excitedly, tugging on his wrist trying to plead her case. “Pleeease?”

Jensen sighed and was about to speak when something behind her caught his eye. 

“Alright, I’ll tell you what… how about a friendly wager? Hm?”

“What kind of wager?” she asked suspiciously.

“Skee ball. Best of three games. If you win, you pick one ride and I go on... no questions, no complaining. If I win…” he trailed off, and couldn’t tell if he was being dramatic or genuinely trying to think of what to ask for in return for winning. 

“Well? What is it that you want?”

Jensen’s face slowly broke out into a devious grin, one that bared his teeth and enhanced the gathering of crinkles around his brilliant green eyes. 

“You have to jump into the ocean and sing me a song…” he wiggled his eyebrows at her and couldn’t hold back the laugh that followed as her expression changed to shock and awe.

“You wouldn’t…”

“Oh, baby, I would.”

Her eyes narrowed on him briefly before she stood straighter and pushed her shoulders back before turning her expression softer and kissing his lips. “You’re on, Hollywood.”

 Y/N claimed two skee ball lanes side by side and waited for Jensen to return with quarters. All around her machines were ringing, video games were blaring and from somewhere far away, she could hear the big wheel operator barking at passersby to come and take a chance. Jensen returned a moment later and placed a plastic cup of quarters between them. He rubbed his hands together and eyed her up.

“Ready?”

“Oh, I am. Question is, are you ready to ride the Poltergeist?”

Jensen laughed, but under it, Y/N detected a hint of fear. 

“So, that’s a yes?” she asked.

“Oh no… no, no. No rides, but I do promise that you will be wet by the end of the night,” he replied, trying to bolster the confidence he had by silently reminding himself that he was great at sports when he was younger and should have no problem taking her down.

“Of that, I have no doubt, but focus, Jay, we’re talking about the bet, here.”

“Incorrigible,” he rolled his eyes and went to work, putting the quarters in both lanes. The hard, white plastic balls sprung to life and rolled down their enclosure. “Best of three?”

“Best of three,” she repeated and picked up the first ball in the row. “Let’s do this.”

For the next few minutes, both Y/N and Jensen started pitching the balls. At first, he was keeping up with her; for every 100 points she would land, he would hit one a minute later. The first game was over quickly with Y/N winning by only the smallest margin. Jensen pumped more quarters in, playfully giving her the competitive evil eye, that she returned happily accompanied with the most precious smile he’d ever seen her smile. She looked like a kid, her tongue peeking out from the corner of her lips, her focus so intent on the game in front of her. If he hadn’t already fallen in love with her, he could have done it all over again right then and there. Yet, all the love he had for her did not outweigh his desire to win this bet so he could throw her into the ocean; even if it was just in the spray of the breaking surf.

The second game wasn’t even close. Y/N hit the ten thousand point hole twice in a row as Jensen stood there, jaw unhinged in shock. From that point on, one ball after the next she pitched into the next highest point holes with a precision that he didn’t think possible. 

“But… how?” he asked when he looked at the score and saw that he did, in fact, lose the best of three games. 

“Because, my dear… I grew up here. Literally. That lane over there was my lucky one, but this one works, too.”

“You… you hustled me,” he bemoaned, continuing to look at her in shock.

“Technically no. This was your idea, I just went along with it. Why would I out myself as a great skeeball player when I want to win? That’s just silly.” She reached out and grabbed his wrist, pulling him closer and despite his current state of disbelief, he didn’t fight her on it. His expression made her laugh as she continued to pull him down the boardwalk in the direction of the pier. 

“You’re really gonna make me do this?” he asked as they approached the ticket booth. 

“I am. But it’s only because I love you, and I am just trying to give you the entire Seaside experience.” Y/N reached into her pocket and passed the cash through the small window after asking for just enough tickets for them to ride one ride before turning back to Jensen. “That, unfortunately for you, includes at least ONE ride. And trust me, I am taking you on the BEST ride the whole pier has to offer.”

“What makes this ride so great?” he asked suspiciously, finally coming out of his fog of losing and falling back into a state of infatuation with Y/N. As they walked beneath the lights of the ride, the excitement he saw in her face, and the bounce in her step was far too alluring for him to even attempt to ignore.

Y/N shrugged before linking her arm with his as they walked towards the big, black box of a building that housed the ride. “It’s always been my favorite since I was a kid. I think I rode it nearly every day of every summer. I would scrounge for change to buy the tickets and get at least one ride in.”

Y/N stopped them right before going through the turn-style. Jensen looked up at the ominous structure that stuck out in opposition to the rest of the surrounding attractions, then back down at her. She was lost in a memory again, and he was able to push his reluctance aside to give her this thing she clearly wanted from him.

“Alright, Trix. You win. Let’s go on a ride.”

Her face lit up brighter than any of the rides around them. “You will not regret this.” She grinned, the impish gleam in her expression enough to keep pushing him forward. “Now, make sure you hold onto the railings as you walk through the tunnel… it spins.”

“Wait.. what?” he asked, frozen in place before Y/N grabbed his hand and pulled him through the turn-style.

Once they slowly made their way through the rotating tunnel breezeway, they stepped into a large, brightly lit room that was void of any windows and heavy with the remnants of the prior ride’s smoke machine effect. Loud music was booming all around them and in the middle of the room, was the Scrambler, a ride Jensen remembered well from his childhood and the county fairs his parents would take him to. But he had never seen the ride set up like it was here. Off to the far side of the room was a high rise booth where a man sat to control the ride and the music. 

Y/N led him around the outside of the ride and towards the booth. 

“One sec,” she said and climbed up the few stairs before knocking on the booth’s door. 

Jensen watched as she spoke to the operator for a minute, who nodded at her and then she was back at his side, once again leading him around the ride. Finally, she found the one she wanted and climbed in, motioning for him to join her. 

“What did you say to him?” Jensen asked, nodding his head in the direction of the booth.

“Just requested a song,” she said absently, then patted his knee. “So, are you excited?!”

Jensen wanted to say no, but he didn’t want to diminish how excited she was. It wasn’t even that he disliked the rides; they were a favorite of his as a kid. He had just eaten way more than he wanted too, plus the margaritas, and he didn’t want his stomach to betray him and ruin the rest of their night. Before he could say anything, the secondary ride conductor came through and secured the safety bar. Truth was, he was a little excited, but not for the ride itself; he was more excited to see her so happy, all the traces of the summer’s earlier drama gone. 

“You know,” he said, leaning closer towards her ear and leaving a little kiss at the base of her neck, “I think I am.”

The lights went out and the ride started to move. Jensen heard the hiss of the smoke machine starting up its effect, just as the opening beats to Carry On My Wayward Son started to play at a near-deafening volume as the strobe lights pulsating in beat with the music.

“You did NOT!” he yelled over the music and started to slide towards the outer edge of the seat as the ride moved faster. “You are so gonna get it for that!”

Y/N slid back and forth, too, crashing into his side and laughing hysterically as it catapulted them around the room, spinning faster and faster as the song boomed over them. She sang along when she could between getting forced by the gravity of the ride from one side to the other. Jensen tried to move his arm to hold onto her but found himself laughing too as he lost his grip thanks to the velocity of which is rotated. The ride felt endless, and yet with each pass across the center and back out, he couldn’t stop smiling and laughing; he was starting to understand why she loved it so much. 

It was a minute or two later that the ride was starting to slow, just as the song itself was fading to an end, and Ozzy Osbourne’s voice was filling the vast space. When it finally came to a complete stop, the attendant was going around unlocking the safety bars. He got to Y/N’s and Jensen’s first, and he immediately hopped out, then turned to help her down the narrow metal steps, to the floor. 

“I can’t believe you told them to play Carry On,” he shook his head and took a minute to get his knees secure under him. “Such a brat.”

Y/N snickered and leaned into him. “Aw, come on. It was fun!”

“Mhm,” he mumbled, pressing his lips together to suppress the grin that wanted to come. “Come on, let’s go get some fresh air, so I don’t end up losing half my dinner.”

As they made their way back out into the fresh, salty air, Jensen put an arm around her waist and pulled her close. She was quiet but seemed contented as they explored the shops, and played a few games before heading back down past the pier again and nearly crashing into a family of five, bickering about whether they should get ice cream, candied apples or funnel cake. The family’s banter made Jensen laugh as he overheard the father say, ‘Get all three, diabetes be damned!’ because it was something he would say to his own kids… if he had his own. The more he looked around and saw all the families enjoying Seaside’s amenities, he couldn’t help but wonder if that was something Y/N ever thought about. 

Shaking his head of that particular rabbit hole, he concentrated on her in that moment and how beautiful and happy she looked. They continued walking down the boardwalk, the chaos of the games and rides fading behind them. Down this part of the town’s beachfront were a string of bars, hotels, and shops that catered to the vacationers without families. Live music poured from every other bar, some of it sounding pretty good. Y/N tried to pull him into one bar to see a band play, but he was afraid it would set her off, thinking about work and that was the last thing he wanted. 

“Hey, we got to do your thing… now, let’s do mine,” he said sweetly, taking her by both wrists and pulling her towards the wide-open beach. “Nighttime sand between your toes, remember?”

Y/N agreed easily and took his hand as they made their way down the unguarded stairs that led out towards the beach. She kicked off her sandals near the entrance and Jensen followed suit before heading down closer to the water. There were a handful of other couples also strolling hand in hand, some spread out on blankets and watching the stars. 

“Tonight has been a lot of fun,” Jensen said, taking her hand as their toes touched on the cold remnants of the seafoam left behind by a retreating wave. “Despite losing to you in skeeball and having to go on a ride.”

“It has been, despite all that,” she teased and playfully bumped her hip against his. “You seriously hated it that much?”

“No, I didn’t. I do like giving you a hard time about it, though.”

“Mean,” she pouted and let go of his hand and walked down closer to the ocean to look out over the water. The moon was higher in the sky now, but its reflection was enough to keep the beach illuminated. 

“You have your phone?” he asked, patting down his pockets. “Realized I left mine at the room.”

“What for?” she asked, reaching into her pocket and retrieving it. 

“I want to take a picture. Didn’t you say you wanted to take some together?” 

“Yeah…” she trailed off, eyeing him suspiciously. “But you said--”

“Geez, woman. Just give me your phone,” he groaned and taking it from her hand. He positioned himself behind her, resting the side of his face against hers. The pier was their backdrop, along with the moon high in the sky and when he raised the camera of the phone to capture the moment, he noticed how she was looking at him, instead of the camera. Just as he snapped a few quick pictures, she kissed his cheek. 

“That’s a good one,” he smiled and absently tossed the phone to the dry sand. 

“What are you--” she said in protest but was stopped by Jensen picking her up swiftly and running towards the water. Y/N screamed and laughed while hitting his back begging him not to throw her in. “Pleeeasseee don’t!! JENSEN! Noooo!!”

“I told you I wanted to do my thing,” he laughed and ran through the surf, disregarding his own clothes from getting soaked in the process. Another step later, an incoming wave made him lose his balance and they both toppled over into the water as it crashed over them. 

“You’re so dead!” Y/N yelled and got up, only to be toppled again by one last wave. 

Jensen was on his feet and running from the surf, as she closely followed behind. He was running towards the pier, and she paused only long enough to grab her phone before taking off after him. Y/N caught up to him near the pilings and squealed with laughter as his arm darted out from behind one, hooking her around her waist. 

“I’m the dead one, huh?” he teased and pulled her in, his mouth going to her neck and attacking it greedily. 

She instantly stopped fighting him and gave in to that sensation of his teeth and tongue working against her skin. From above, the noises of the boardwalk continued on, but where they were, out of sight and out of mind, they could only hear the other’s breathing change and hearts pounding faster. His need to have her was instant, but the fear of getting caught out in the open hindered his hands from pulling down her shorts and having her right there. Still, he couldn’t pull himself away as his hands continued exploring her body.  

“Come here,” she said, as if knowing his thoughts, and led him further under the pier. They were completely hidden from the public, and just before he grabbed her and flipped her down to the sand, she tossed her phone aside. 

“This is a bad idea,” Jensen mumbled as he went back to kissing her neck. His hand was pushing her shirt up so he could paw at her breasts, her body arching up beneath him. 

“It's fine,” she breathed, working on getting his shorts loose enough to pull down. “I need you, Jay… I want you now.” Y/N ached for him just as badly as he did for her, his erection rock hard and pressing into her thigh. She finally got them pushed down and began to stroke him slowly, making him moan into her neck. 

“Fuuck..,” Jensen growled and yanked her shorts and panties down with one rough pull. 

The tip of his dick found her quickly; the ocean wasn’t the only thing causing her to be so wet. She mewed and whispered his name as he brushed against her clit, swollen and needy for his touch before he easily slid up into her. Jensen positioned himself for a better angle, thrusting quick and sharp while her nails dug into his back, holding onto him for dear life. Neither of them would last long, given the desperation, they felt for this release and the speed at which he was fucking her. The sounds of the boardwalk above easily covered their noises, and when Y/N came, Jensen covered her mouth with his, kissing her deeply. A moment later, he joined her and buried his face into her neck, biting down on her shoulder to keep from being heard by passersby. 

Jensen rolled over and flopped his back onto the sand beside her. He pulled his shorts back up and secured them, as she did the same. Y/N propped herself up on one elbow, so she could look down at him and smile, flushing with warm embarrassment when he finally caught her gaze. 

“That was unexpected,” he laughed, flustered at what they just did under the pier. He reached up to brush a hair from her cheek. He was trying to think of something witty, or sarcastic to stay, to break the bit of the awkwardness of the moment, but all he could think about was how alive she made him feel.

The sound of voices took them by surprise, making them both sit up and listen carefully. When the people spoke again, they were getting closer, forcing Jensen and Y/N to quickly get up and finish securing their clothing. Y/N grabbed her phone and was just putting it in her pocket when another young couple appeared at the opposite side of the pier. 

“Come on,” Jensen said, grabbing her hand and turning towards the exit to the beach. “I think we should grab some funnel cake and head back to the room. Whatcha say?”

“That sounds perfect,” she sighed contently and leaned into his side as they left the beach. 

Later that night, after finishing the funnel cake and taking long, hot showers, Jensen and Y/N lay in bed, lazily dozing and whispering late into the night. He could feel her breathing starting to slow and knew she would be asleep soon. Thinking back over the night, he realized how much he had thought about them revisiting Seaside one day in the future, and maybe doing it with their own kids. No matter how often he tried to push it again, he couldn’t, and though he knew Y/N loved him and wasn’t going anywhere, he needed to know how she felt about it.

“Hey Trix, you awake?”

“Mhm,” she replied, exhaling a slow breath. 

“Can I ask you something?”

“Mhm,” she repeated, this time snuggling deeper into the crook of his arm and wrapping an arm across his chest. 

“Have you, uh… you ever thought about having kids?”

Y/N lifted her head and through her tired eyes, looked at him curiously. “What brought that on?”

“Seeing all those families up there tonight, I guess. Makes me think about bringing my own kids here one day.”

“So kids… that’s something you want.”

Jensen considered it and nodded gently. “Yeah. I do. And I wanna bring them back here one day to show them where their mom grew up.” His tongue darted nervously over his bottom lip as he watched her realize what he was saying. 

“Jay… I… don’t know what to say, really. I never considered kids because, well, look who I was with. I never had a stable enough relationship where they could even be an option.”

“And now?”

“Now? I…” she shrugged and when her (y/c) eyes met his, she softened and lightly brushed the back of her hand against his cheek. “Now, I can at least let myself think of a future. One that goes beyond the festival. Kids… maybe? I don’t know. I’m sorry I can’t give you more than that, right now, I just know that the future I do see definitely has you in it.”

Jensen kissed the side of her head and held her closer. “Baby, that’s all I really needed to know.” 

Everything Tags:  @sorenmarie87 // @yallgotkik // @thefaithfulwriter // @sister-winchesters99 // @thymeheals // @coffeebooksandfandom

“When You Least Expect It” Tags: @vickyfarley // @winchest09 // @jerkbitchidjitassbutt // @aomi-nabi // @luciathewinchestergirl // @alexiswinchester // @seppys-return-to-madness // @donnaintx // @deans-baby-momma // @the-is13 // @stoneyggirl // @captaindorit0 // @fanfictionjunkie1112 // @focusonspn // @mrsjenniferwinchester

SPN RPF Tags:  @screechingartisancashbailiff // @winchesterxfamilybusiness // @sandlee44 // @wings-of-a-raven // @negans-wife // @kazosa // @teaspoin // @whiskeyandapplepie // @hobby27 // @breereadsthings // @maddiepants // @adoptdontshoppets // @closetspngirl // @whereismyangel-damnitdeanshare // @katehuntington // @his-paradox // @screechingartisancashbailiff

[lowbatterypleasecharge]

k-pop preferences: FMA

Ed: 

Monsta X - loud and gaudy, need I say more

Peripherally follows BTS - got to support them short kings

He wasn't a huge fan of Twice, but Al and Winry started playing the Feel Special Album and "Get Loud" is gospel

Stray Kids - "Miroh"... but also "Hellavator" and "DoUbLe KnOt"

Al: 

SNSD are the Amazons we deserve

Of course he follows Taeyeon, you buffoons

Twice in general, but also "TT" - "TT" is his spirit animal

IU is Class™

Seventeen - well-liked by everyone, "Very Nice," how could you go wrong?

Winry:

Really anything she can bop to while working, she's not picky

Made her ringtone on Ed's cell "Pick Up the Phone," because what the hell Ed

"Save Me" saved her many times, during many work shifts

Them Loona girls are pretty cool - "Butterfly" is promising

"Tell me why-y-y I'm so lonely," she absentmindedly sings to herself as she stares, bleary-eyed at the arm plate she has to weld into place before the shipment at 6 AM tomorrow. Today. 2 hours from now.

"Sugar Free" is her workout jam, no judging

Hohenheim:

There are thousands of souls, sometimes at war, in his body. He loves and hates all music equally. Hyukoh hits a certain way, though. There's a silence within himself when he hears "Gondry" that he hasn't known for centuries.

Roy: 

"Back in my day, we had quality music: Epik High."

Stuck in second gen

"Chaser" is his go-to drunk karaoke song - he and Hughes used to go to town on Fridays

(He may or may not have serenaded Hawkeye to "Mirotic" after a bottle of tequila...we don't talk about the scar on the back of his left knee)

Sometimes the young-ins do something right - I'm looking at you, "Shangri-La"

Riza: 

Usually passes the AUX cord to someone else, but objective quality

Dreamcatcher is always a safe bet, style for days

Keeping her eye on BVNDIT because deep female voices are where it's at

SHINEE has her respect - classic, still going strong with "Good Evening"...as long as she never has to look at their debut hair again

(If she Tokyo Drifts to "I'm Sorry," only Black Hayate has to know)

Hughes: 

Though technically unrelated to K-pop, we all know Hughes did a rendition of "Baby Shark" with his wife and daughter and proceeded to curse every military base he was stationed at

Knows most of the same songs Roy does, but also oddly informed on the K-pop landscape as a whole - from g.o.d. to, gods forbid, ITZY

Sings "Lovey Dovey" a lot - whether it's for the memes or because he unironically worships the song, no one can tell

Havoc: 

Got7 ult bias - everyone wants to know why

But also, "Guys, iKON, 'Love Scenario' is where it's at."

Who's he kidding, really any gg could sing and he'd watch

Armstrong: 

Every morning he eats his 5 dozen eggs to "Sixth Sense"

EXO's "Mama" dramatics are goals

Knows the dance to "Again and Again," for some reason

Lust: 

"Bad Boys" by RV, but also "Peek-a-boo" MV is fire

Rip Pristin V, guys

Y'all wished they liked BP

Jennie is living her best life, though. Be hot...that's it, that's all there is to life. It's that easy.

EXID and Hyuna - free the titties, do God's work

Envy:  

There's a vibration under their pillow, which doesn't really bother them. But it happens again. And again. They lift their head slightly, groggily squinting into the darkness of their room. And then...a slightly muffled "A-to-the-G-to-the-U-to-the-STD." "Oh, Lust can go to voicemail."

They wouldn't say they like "Instagram" per say, but it's like the song won't let go of them. It's on every Spotify playlist they have, somehow. It's unsettling.

Greed:

Block B sinner, through-and-through, cultural appropriation be damned - they want it all

"Monster," no explanation needed

"Bang Bang Bang" is now inextricably entwined in their vocabulary because God is dead, and we have killed them

(and "DDU-DU-DDU-DU," but hopefully his crew doesn't know that)

Ling:

"24 Hours" > "Gashina," and he will die on this hill

But also he's been determined to figure out how to Taemin since "Move"

Vape, you say? Be gay, you say?

Lan Fan is in charge of setting up "Trouble Maker" on the boombox before he yeets out the window, or maybe "Sorry Sorry"...it depends

"Young Lord, what is 'jyp's don't leave me,' and why is the dance tutorial in our search history?"

Greed!Ling:

They've made a compromise, it's 2NE1, and it's possible they're both better for it

Perhaps "I Am the Best" is the anthem they deserved, all along

Lan Fan:

Day6 - the existential yearning

"I Smile" she thinks, very much not smiling

Also, scene kid Lan Fan in her black hood, meditating on life's greatest questions and Seungyeon's "Guilty"

(In other news, Lan Fan has learned to suppress many things in life, the lyrics to "Some" are not one of them)

(P.S. "Gashina" > "24 Hours," but the Young Lord doesn't have to know that)

Mei:

Anything Al likes, obviously, though she despairs at gen 2 gg legs

Astro, obviously

I.O.I. - Korean releases only, she's not a heathen

"Just One Day" - romance in a nutshell

Has a weak spot for traditional Korean influences - "Lit" and "Idol" come to mind, though she's pretty sure she wouldn't like the latter under normal circumstances

Scar:

Doesn't normally listen to music outside of religious reasons

Did the military try to make Scar do a PR stunt to RM and Whales' "Change?" Yes, they absolutely tried.

Olivier:

Again, not a huge music person, doesn't really do it for her

A nod in passing to those who don't pander to the masses on Weekly Idol, even if she doesn't know who they are

(Ever since then, Armstrong keeps blithering on about functions? She thinks. She doesn't care to understand how they're connected to red lights or electric shocks, though.)

Dr. Marcoh:

Trot

"Man, the kids really can sing these days," he thinks, biting his bottom lip and bobbing his head to Masked Singer

[lokilickedme]

(Okay, I’m going to do this in probably 3 parts because it’s long)

So The Department sorta happened because I wanted to get back into a regular weekly-updating online fic because, frankly, two reasons:

1) I’m worn out/exhausted/a bit burned out from working on novels and very little of anything else for the last year and a half, and

2) I crave/need the instant validation of the comment section at AO3, which you don’t get when you write a book :/

So I called a break, put away my manuscripts for a couple months, and am just indulging in some fun writing for a little while.  And since I wanted something new (sorry WIPs, your time will come again) this is what we ended up with.

I don’t remember exactly what made me go with the police department premise.  The potential for assholery and rampant egomania, most likely?  Well, you know I love that shit when it hides something slightly more noble underneath...and I think I wanted a big ensemble cast because I just adore the dynamics that can occur in groups of disparate personalities who have known each other for a long time.  That way they interact when they know each others’ secrets and there’s that one person new to the group who isn’t in on any of the jokes?  Good stuff right there.

I do remember that the first ideas for this story came to me during the Professor Jeff’s Super Science Show at the library (yeah your guess is as good as mine on that but it happens literally every time).  But if I’m being honest, I’d say it probably had more to do with Benny Hill than anything.  I have this bad habit of sitting on the couch with my laptop on my knees, headphones on, head back, inventing scenes in my head that go along with whatever music I’m listening to.  I’ve got this one insane playlist full of goofy tunes my 7-year old has requested for staging Thomas The Tank Engine crash scenes (don’t ask) and on this particular night that’s what I was listening to because why not.  On that playlist is a 30-minute loop of the Benny Hill Theme.  And all I could see in my head was a foot chase on ice and snow between a female officer, an out of shape Chief of police, a giraffe-legged office assistant, and a probably methed-up wannabe criminal who didn’t actually do anything major but was running anyway because he was bored.  It struck me funny and I toyed with the idea of sticking it into something I already had started, because I do love me some chaotic slapstick.

So the next day I’m driving the boys home from the Super Science Show and I’ve been playing around with it in my head again, and it’s taking shape into something that I know I’m going to have to work with.  We pass the Pupuseria Virolena Salvadoran restaurant downtown, and I start laughing because I’m suddenly hearing David Tennant trying to say that in his Scottish accent.

On the spot I named him Hawk and made him Captain.  And now we have one of our characters, and by the time we pull up in our driveway ten minutes later I’ve got stuff needing to be written down right now.

(the rest is under the cut for length)

Chapter 1 - Prologue - Your Boatload of Bad Decisions Has Left The Harbor

I was so anxious to get into the story but it needed an introduction, or else Greta being in this podunk town wouldn’t have any weight.  So we’re introduced to our heroine, who isn’t so much a heroine as just a decent if slightly too self confident special division officer who had some bad luck.  It’s not elaborated on yet in the story, though it’s heavily referenced multiple times that she disobeyed an order and made the decision to continue a high speed pursuit that had been called off by her superior officer, the above-mentioned Captain Hawkins, whom Greta has something of a relationship with (yeah they’re screwing, what of it).  And in the wake of that decision, Greta’s partner is killed and she’s brought up on charges, suspended, ordered to counseling, and finally shipped off to a small town in Minnesota so she can keep working while her final fate is decided by an investigative committee back in LA.

The opening chase scene was written from things I learned when I was a kid and my dad did vehicle tweaks for the Fort Worth police department from his auto shop.  The officers used to hang out drinking Cokes and telling stories while dad made (possibly illegal) modifications to their cars.  I was there a lot, sitting under his work bench with my books and pencils, listening to everything and remembering it all.  And I thought it was so damn cool.  So here we are.  What else was I gonna do with that information?  Might as well put it to use if it’s gonna be taking up real estate in my head for all these years.

For the record, I really liked Greta’s partner Joe and hated to kill him - but we needed a catalyst, and the cheerful best friend who sings Italian arias during chases while joyfully blasting out windshields is always gonna be the loser in the goner lottery.  For once the male hero dies to further the female lead’s storyline.

Heh, take that Marvel.

Anyway, sorry Joe.  There will be more about you in later chapters, so...gone but not forgotten.

Chapter 2 - Minnewhatever

This part starts out with the last bit of backstory we need to proceed.  Hawk sending Greta off to Minnesota, a place whose name she never does remember or say correctly.  She doesn’t figure she’s actually going to be there long enough to bother learning it, but Hawk informs her that her exile is likely to last at least a year, and he gives her very little reassurance that she won’t be serving every minute of her sentence.

Greta’s feeling a little betrayed here.  She and Hawk have been sort of a thing for a while, friends and colleagues and lovers, but he’s washing his hands of the entire situation and she’s left angry and a bit bereft.  But she still figures he’ll do something to get her out of it, if she’s patient and behaves herself in the new place.

Fast forward to day one in Weemeetwa.  While drowning her aggravation in a bottle of the good stuff, Greta meets her first new acquaintance and decides to just go with the cranky fuck-it attitude that she’s been harboring since the incident, gets shitfaced, and goes home with the guy.  This might have been a dual-purpose shag; Greta’s still feeling betrayed and abandoned by Hawk, so it’s a screw-you that he’ll never find out about - but that doesn’t stop it from feeling good in a vengeful sort of way.  Plus it’s cold and she’s alone and the guy - Andy, a tall sweet longhaired cutiepie with an Irish accent - is all too willing to buy her a drink and take her home for some cuddles.

In the morning Greta wakes up in a strange place full of groaning regret and ends up giving Andy a ride to the station.  She doesn’t count on seeing him again, so there’s no breath wasted on goodbyes.

Chapter 3 -  A Logging Truck, A Mountain, and A Blonde Walk Into A Bar

Now we meet most of the department.  Creeley, a gruff roughhouser with a rude streak forty miles wide, Sarah, the only other female in the department and possibly the only person alive who can keep the boys under control, Kevin, the quiet dispatch agent with an impressive mountain impersonation skill, and finally (for the moment) Chief, the slightly too good-looking and highly put-upon boss of them all.

I knew I wanted Tom Hiddleston to play Chief Tommy Davis.  This is Kong Skull Island-era Hiddleston crossed with The Night Manager, with a handful of extra pounds around the middle and a frustrated sigh that goes on forever.  He’s meant to be an ex hockey player who was waylaid on his way to the major leagues, so he’s strong and sturdy, but an injury benched him years ago and a career in small-town law enforcement has put him a bit to pasture.  Middle aged, somewhere between 40 and 45.  He’s got some stuff in his past but he’s happy now, for the most part, just living his life watching over the town.

Jason Momoa is Bobby Creeley, for obvious reasons.  I knew I wanted a rowdy, rude, loudmouthed team member that’s always crossing everyone, but who everyone knows will be there no matter what if anything goes down.  He’s instantly Greta’s nemesis from the moment she walks in the door.  Gigantic and shaggy with a permanently amused nature and a fear of literally nothing, he’s simultaneously everyone’s best friend and worst enemy.

Sarah Lancashire has been finding her way into a lot of my fics lately as side characters, so it’s no surprise she ended up here as Sarah Pearl.  Steely, tough, and highly immune to the idiocy around her, Sarah is the worn out voice of common sense that the department is running perilously short on.  She’s also my first and foremost girl crush, and I’ll admit right now that I wrote an AU ending almost immediately that involved Sarah and Greta ending up together.  It would be natural to assume Sarah would fall into the default role of mom to the group, but there’s a whole lot of oh hell nope wrapped around that trope.  She would set them all on fire if anyone would let her have some matches, but Chief made a rule against that a long damn time ago.

Dave Bautista has been hanging around the back door of my muse stable for the longest, just minding his own business and waiting his turn, but I never really had any place to stick him.  Well Drax, your time has come baby.  I chose him to play Kevin Saylor based on his GoTG scene in which he tries to convince the crew he’s invisible.  And that’s Kevin, in a nutshell.  Huge and intimidating but quiet and intensely matter-of-fact in manner, he’s in charge of dispatch and immediately inspires Greta’s hatred of using the radio.

My first (and really only) faceclaim for Greta Morley was Zoe Saldana, but I waffled briefly for a couple of weeks, trying to cater to a few readers who told me they wanted to imagine themselves in the role.  I planned to stick with that, and I tried, I promise I did.  But every time Greta opened her mouth I heard Zoe, and by the time she went on her less than fleet-footed pursuit of Wilson with the longsuffering Andy by her side, she was locked in.  Greta’s harboring some serious regret and raw emotional wounds from her not too distant past, and some time out in the American Midwest should be a much needed recovery sabbatical.  Should be.  But isn’t gonna.

Speaking of Andy...Andrew Hozier-Byrne was and is the only person I ever considered for the role of Andy Burns.  Too tall, too clumsy, too cute, too sweet, just a whole bunch of too everything - he was perfect for the role and I may or may not have written it exclusively for him.  Okay yeah, I wrote it exclusively for him.  Andy’s the local cryptid, nobody really knows a lot about him.  He may or may not be a drug dealer.  He may or may not be officially employed by the police department.  He may or may not be Irish or hypoglycemic or a blackout drunk or as goofy as he seems.  Nobody really knows, and to be honest nobody really cares, because if you need it done Andy can do it...if he can remember you asked him to do it.

So Greta has arrived, for better or for worse.  Cree immediately starts in with the sexist remarks and butchering her name, a favor she returns by embarking on what will become a neverending trail of obliterated mis-renderings of the town’s name.  Creeley and Kevin kick off another of many running gags by arguing over whether or not anyone knew she was coming, and before things can get too stupid, Chief makes his first appearance.

And now things start to get interesting.

To be continued at chapter 4, Randy Andy and The Chief of Weemeetwa

@whatevervivie