#felt that in my soul....and another place

[circeyoru]

Shadow and Void _ Part 4

[Yandere!Sung Jinwoo x Enemy Monarch!Reader]

Part 1 ― Part 2 ― Part 3 ― Part 4 (here)

You want to kill something—someone to be specific—right now. Even as you were surrounded with snacks you liked, you hated the situation unfolding before you. The mind of a human is just too weird for you to understand in any sense.

You angrily bit on the chip between your fingers with a loud and resounding snap that broke the silence while your eyes drilled holes into the man who was basically holding you there against your will, maybe with some form of bribe, but it was definitely not the snacks. Definitely.

“Just let her in your guild, you edge lord.” You hissed as you took the female Hunter’s side, annoyed at the various ridiculous excuses Jinwoo listed to push Hae-In away. You would admit that you’re impressed with her resilience when facing such a menace; then again, she is in love, and love makes one do crazy things.

Jinwoo had half a mind to know not to voice out the question of how and why you’d know such phrasing, since there was Cha Hae-In present and there was no need to raise alarm bells. Though the greatest reason was that he didn’t want another to know about you or what you are precisely. He can’t say he’s bothered by the way your eyes stared at him, all focused and guarded, ready to take Hae-In hostage if the situation calls for it.

Ah, but it won’t be much help to you. You’d have picked the wrong target. If it were someone like his mother or younger sister, then there’d be an effect you’d wanted. However, this was Hae-In, he barely met her and she barely knew him. That can’t be the case between you two. 

He knew about your being as a Monarch and an inhuman thing using a human body as a vessel, you knew about his levelling-up system that granted him his status as an S-Rank and all his other abilities. He and you could be your true selves in each other’s presence, no filter, no expectations of fulfilling anything. In a sense, he felt more at peace with you than the other people around him. Like you were someone as close to him as family. 

Perhaps this was the after-effects of viewing the memories between you and Ashborn, but that was his thoughts.

“There’s an entrance test before I can allow you to join, Hunter Cha.” Jinwoo stated nonchalantly.

You raised a brow while Hae-In flinched in alarm, “H- Huh?! That wasn’t in the recruiting notice…”

“A mistake, since we were busy these few days.” Jinwoo got up and eyed you to do the same, you complied while bringing along your unfinished snacks. “If you think it’s too sudden and unreasonable, you can―”

“What kind of test is it?” Hae-In asked with resolve.

You practically saw the shock in Jinwoo’s eyes, hiding a snicker as you internally mocked his poor insight into a woman’s determination. 

“You have to win against one of my summons.” Jinwoo laid out the simple yet vague requirement. 

“Is the evaluation of me in your eyes so low, Hunter Sung?” Hae-In’s tone turned firm and solid, nothing like her previous blushing mess. You can’t miss the fire burning in her eyes, “What kind of summon is it?”

With a cruel thought, you wondered if killing this Hunter for Ashborn and adding her to his army would be a good enough apology gift. Then again, you had to do it when the vessel’s soul is gone and Ashborn is back to fully appreciate your work well done. You’ll keep the thought in mind for the future. For now, you’ll let the humans deal with their business.

“For you, Hunter Cha, I’ll use my strongest summon ally.” Just as you were leaving the scene, Jinwoo’s hand placed firmly on your shoulder, stopping you in your tracks. You looked up at him in confusion and question as he looked down with a smirk. “This one.”

Hae-In jumped, “You’re a summon?! But you’re so… So…”

“Human?” Jinwoo smiled, leaning down to your level as his face was next to yours and made eye contact with Hae-In, “Yes, this is my perfect ally and companion in battle; it wouldn’t be good for a monster to be around me, right?”

You glared at Jinwoo, completely unaware of the conflicted expression on Hae-In’s face as your back was facing her. You whispered a hiss at him, “What are you doing? Don’t drag me into this.”

“A small deal then.” Jinwoo whispered back, taking advantage of Hae-In’s inner turmoil. “If you can ward Hunter Cha from joining my guild, you won’t have to stay by my side all the time. In other words, defeat Hunter cha and you get some free time for yourself without me around.”

That got your attention and you turned to glance at Hae-In. This woman can’t even manage to hold this vessel’s attention for long, not to mention how you were now dragged into some useless fight. Even if you let her into the guild, her use wasn’t much and she is weak compared to this vessel before you. The comparison was unfair, but it was the truth.

“Fine, but you keep your word.”

“Of course.”

You turned your heel and dumped the snacks back onto the coffee table. Taking a page out of Igris’ book, you stood at attention and fixed your expression to a more stoic and indifferent look, your chin angled down and your hands were placed behind your back, your eyes stared sharply at Hae-In. “My Lord has suggested I do battle with you for your place in his guild,” You offered your hand as you asked, “Should you accept, only if you win against me will you be considered acceptance. Do you still wish to partake in the duel?”

Jinwoo was almost taken aback with your shift in attitude and character. Not that he found fault in it, but rather, he was more drawn to you. It was smart of him to make such an appealing offer to you. The System’s information was right on the money. You are so self-centered and willing to abandon others for your own cause.

Now, all he needed to do was make sure you don’t can’t leave him.

His eyes glowed briefly when Hae-In’s hand gripped yours with a firm nod that meant ‘yes’. The moment you looked over as if asking for approval made his heart skip a beat, you were acting just like an actual Shadow soldier of his. He nodded back and watched you raise your other hand to snap your fingers. 

In the blink of an eye, all three of you were transported to another dimension. All your surroundings were misty, and even the ground was covered with a layer of fog that obscured their vision of their own feet. You had long walked off from Jinwoo’s side, only when he snapped back to attention did he realize he was standing at the perfect angle to see you and Hae-In on either side of a field of sorts.

“Here, we can battle without restraint.” You said, and with another snap of your fingers, a rack of weapons appeared by Hae-In’s side. “Pick your weapon, and we will begin on My Lord’s mark.”

So Jinwoo was right; you could have escaped to your own realm at any moment, with or without his consent and knowledge. Why you haven’t done so was odd, but that also proves how much of a hold Ashborn has on you. If only he could shift your attention from his predecessor to himself. 

Hae-In picked a long sword while you stood immobile. 

“Ready.”

Hae-In got into a stance, but you were as still as can be like you were frozen in place.

“Set.”

Hae-In’s mana aura surrounded her, charging her blade as well. You did nothing.

“Go!”

Hae-In took the initiative and charged forward, planning to end the duel with one quick decisive move. However, just before her blade reached you, you had disappeared in thin air. As quickly as you disappeared, you materialized behind Hae-In and kicked her in the back to send her flying to the side. You stood at your spot, fixing your clothes, tugging at your sleeves from your movement.

Swiftly, Hae-In had recovered and remained on the offensive. Your head tilted and you dodged her incoming attacks with graceful movements. The way you put minimum effort into this was almost like you were toying with the Hunter. Your monotonous expression and your hands behind your back were screaming handicap. It may look like an advantage to Hae-In, but it hurt her pride.

“Fight me for real.” Hae-In panted, finding this play irritating.

You merely blinked and hummed. Your eyes darted over to Jinwoo’s analytic look, no doubt he was watching this fight with a hawk, mainly judging your abilities than Hae-In’s qualifications to join the guild. You knew and he knew, there was no way Hae-In could win against you, a Monarch. It was only a matter of how to create that loss without death.

If only you could kill. Then everything would be so easy. You sighed, momentarily closing your eyes before they opened and glowed, “Humans are so ignorant of their limits…”

Note: Probably not the update you guys wanted, but I've been writing for this series still~ I'm thinking of making the parts longer cause of the gaps between updates though, not just for this series, but maybe for future posts too.

𝕮𝖎𝖗𝖈𝖊 𝖄.

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Taglist: @o-qi-shisme @2021animeandwebtoons @mochinon-yah @skylar896 @rai-xxx @lilliana-14 @larettajudith

[nayaesworld]

Mafioso

Part 2

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Warnings: violence, past mentions of domestic situations, fluff

Terry X OC!Marina

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Terry had been experiencing true bliss the last month he had spent with Marina. She was intelligent beyond words and found ways to teach him something new everyday. Whether it was her place or his, they carved out time from their busy schedules to spend quality time to get to know one another. Friday had rolled around and Marina was currently napping on his plush couch snuggled up with a thick throw blanket.Hands together underneath her chin as she snored lightly. This had been their ritual. She’d end her work week and spend the weekend with Terry.

And they shared similar stories about how they had grown up. Her mother Zen was also a single mother who was in a large city all by herself and they both were an only child. She spoke of the day her mother had finally finished school and became a labor and delivery nurse, she wanted to welcome babies into the world for the rest of her career. Marina spoke of the day they celebrated and how much she looked up to her mother. And Terry loved his mother dearly as well, he had provided her with the luxury of never having to work again, a gift for her sacrifice as a mother. She knew what he did, what he had to do for them to survive and yet his most current life decision she did not agree with.

She’d heard Marina talking in the back of their phone call one day and was currently icing him out for it. Grace had called Terry everything but a child of god, and was hell bent on not letting him make this “mistake” again. He caught on eventually to what or rather who she was referring to… a past toxic relationship that had fizzled out almost three years ago now. Terry was whoring and running through Houston like an angry bull when he met Carmen. They argued, fucked, and fought on a repeat constantly, tearing through his house, her house, vehicles you name it they had an altercation there.But eventually like most relationships like theirs the shit got old fast and he was tired of his face looking like he had gotten into an altercation with a mountain lion.

But Carmen didn’t leave peacefully, no that wasn't her. She disrespected his mother and attempted to slander his name in the media. It was messy and the cleanup to attempt to scrub his name clean of her lies cost him a pretty penny. Last he had heard, she had successfully trapped some poor unfortunate soul…rather them than him.But Marina hadn't exhibited any of the signs that Carmen had early on in their relationship. She was about her money, had dreams and aspirations, and above all else she was genuinely happy about life. The only words that soothe this mother were future promises of actually getting to meet Marina, that would have to do for now.

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Terry tossed his head back and squeezed a few drops of eye drops into his eyes. Sleep had evaded him again the night before and his eyes felt tired and dry. His body felt stiff and sore from jumping out of a moving car the day before. Some shit that had to be done. Another day of asserting dominance and knocking heads off, the usual. His hands gripped the bathroom vanity as he closed his eyes to allow the solution to soothe his eyes. He was zoned out and didn’t hear Marina walking toward him, her warm hand reaching out and lightly rubbing his forearm made him flinch and pop his eyes open quickly.

“Oh-oh Terry I’m sorry… were you crying?” Her eyebrows rose in worry and stepped into the bathroom with him.

“No sweetheart, it’s just eye drops… I swear. You nap like a house cat you know..I’m starting to think you only come over to use my couch.” Terry capped the eye solution and placed it in his medicine cabinet before resting a hand on her waist.

“If you did the same you wouldn’t need those drops boo, I take my beauty sleep seriously and you should start Mr.Night Owl and maybe you’ll get as pretty as me.” He placed a hand to his chest in feigned hurt and chuckled at her.

“Oh so I’m not pretty enough for you already?” The hand on her waist slid up to gently rub against her back.

“Mhmh you belong on the cover of vogue.. now shoo I have to empty my bladder.” She rushed a juicy kiss to his cheek before he left her to give some privacy padding across the house to his bedroom.

He let his tense body sink into the recliner in the corner of his room. Body relaxing and sinking further into the plush expensive chair, his eyes slowly rolling into his head.

“Terry…oh Smiley you actually are sleepy aren’t you…so I guess that means I can’t beg you to go to Target with me huh?” He listened to her walk closer to him until she stood next to him, eyes still closed.

He loved when she called him Smiley, the nickname she created because she said anytime he smiled or grinned even just a little all 32 of his teeth would show.

“I was gonna drag my mama with me, but she flaked on me to go wine tasting…Smiley I need to go pick up some makeup stuff for our date tomorrow, will you come with me?” She rubbed her hand over his head softly and he leaned further into her touch and rested his head against her belly.

He pulled her down into his lap and she sat sideways squealing at his quick reflexes. She had taken off her bonnet and her sleek silk pressed hair flowed past her shoulders sleek and shiny.

“Mm I love your hair Mari… so soft and long.” He ran his fingers through the course strands pleased by how the new style framed her face and made her even more irresistible. “So pretty…I’ll go with you just let me change ok?”

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“Terry no..I am not driving this, are you crazy..What if I wreck it?” Terry was in a fit of tears. He was currently trying to convince Marina to drive his BMW X6 to Target and she was not having it.

“Then I’ll just buy another one…remember what I showed you last time? Just put your foot on the gas and press the drive button right here.” He went over it again with her before she finally felt comfortable enough to back out of his driveway and head towards Target.

They stopped at Wendy’s after Marina got a craving for it a few minutes into the drive and she eagerly ordered them both large combos.

“Man just eat the burger, one burger won’t undo your six pack Smiley I promise.”

“You just got me breaking all my rules. Got me eating red meat and sweets…eating in my car. How you gonna pay me back for all this lack of discipline?”

“Will a kiss cover me for my bamboozling activity?” Terry gripped her chin and pulled her face close to his just close enough for the tips of their noses to touch.

Her dark eyes filled with mischief locked onto his…so tantalizing and expressive, even for him. She had a way with her eyes, and he always felt so bright and important when she looked at him. “A kiss will do just fine, pretty girl.”

He allowed her to lead the kiss, her plump lips pecking gently around his mouth trying to tempt his mouth open. He inevitably gave in, too eager to stroke and roll his tongue over hers. Heads cocked to the side Terry thrusted his tongue into her mouth lost in the feel of her soft cheek and tongue. It was so hot and warm and everytime they kissed he imagined the same feeling on the tip of his dick, pure ecstasy.

A knock to the passenger side window ceased their lip locking session and Terry groaned loudly. The ceramic tint on his windows had him mean mugging the man outside of his car. Motherfucking Scotty, a well known addict in the area that couldn’t be trusted. He would run his mouth to anybody that offered him a fix and for that reason alone Terry didn’t deal with him like everyone else did, and yet here he was In Terry’s face too damn close to the one new thing he was hiding from that part of his life— Marina.

Terry pulled the gold rim glasses from his face before looking over at Marina. “You know him?”

“I’ve seen him around town a few times.. he’s a good man that was dealt some bad cards in life. I help him out whenever I see him.” He reached into his wallet and pulled out a crisp 50 dollar bill and rolled his window down with his back to Marina he was prepared to give a silent warning. He didn’t like being ambushed.

“Hey man you just love popping up on me huh..here’s a little something to send you on your way, stay out of trouble.” Terry sent the man a smile that didn’t meet his eyes before Scotty got the memo and thanked him before he headed back to sit in front of the restaurant. Nosey ass nigga.

“That was sweet Terry, you know your giving nature is one of my favorite things about you.” He met her gaze with a smile before bringing her hand up to his lips to press a kiss to it.

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Target wasn’t as bad as Terry had anticipated, he had frequented the store maybe once or twice but now he was seeing the hype in it. Marina surprisingly only came for one little makeup product, something she apparently couldn’t live without a brow gel or whatever she had called it. He was enjoying her company nonetheless though, they had a date planned Saturday and he was more than looking forward to it.

“Can I get a hint on where we’re going at least.” She was at the island inside his kitchen, engorging herself on the creamy Alfredo and salmon he had made for them nimble fingers gripping the wine glass filled with moscato.

Terry wiped the white cheesy sauce from his mouth with a napkin before giving her his attention “I want you surprised sweetheart… so no hints unfortunately. Just wear that little red number you showed me today and you got it baby.”

“Aww you’re no fun Smiley… but at least your wine is good to make up for it.” She raised her glass towards his and the glasses clinked together.

“Mm you’ll love it, it’s right up your alley, now that’s all the info I can give you…you’ll just have to wait until tomorrow…how’s the new episode of your podcast coming along?”

“Ehh it’s going..I have two different subjects I wanna talk about but I’m having trouble narrowing it down. One is speaking to me more than the other one though.” Terry chewed and swallowed a piece of salmon repositioning himself on the stool.

“I’d go with the one you favor then…it’s likely that one is sticking to you more because you have great insight on it. Which you usually do on all your topics.” He grabbed their plates and dumped the remains into his trash can before loading the dirty dishes into the dishwasher. “What’s the topic you're favoring?”

“It was more so a cocktail of things honestly, and it’ll probably be a really long episode. But it was drug abuse and the selling of drugs within our community.. and the obvious fucked up results of that on our youth and their futures.”

Terry felt his back tense up at her words before he relaxed himself. She had every right to talk about this and yet the topic couldn’t be any closer to home than it was. Here life was yet again trying to wave a red flag in his face, and it would be yet another ignored one.

“That’s a beautiful topic Mari..a really important one, I’ll be looking forward to hearing your points on it.”

Both tuckered out and tired from the day Terry headed towards one bathroom to shower and Marina headed to his other. His hands pressed firmly against the shower wall as the warm water cascaded over his sore muscles, his body called for plentiful hours of deep sleep. He was feeling deprived at this point but Marina brought him relief that sleep would come to him tonight peacefully and without the constant nightmares that haunted him. It was an attack on his mind and body that tossed him back and forth through REM sleep and deep sleep. Those souls he sought out and took came at a price, a mental one. Sometimes he wondered if he could actually ever shake the dead or if they wandered around him restlessly and unseen, waiting on their turn to torment him in the dreamworld.

He heard the tv in his bedroom switch on, an indication that somehow he was taking a longer shower than Marina had and that he was in his head longer than he had thought he was, he switched off the water before stepping out and wrapping his waist with a towel. Sleeping in bed with a woman that he had never had sexual relations with was new and he wouldn’t act as if he never thought about sex with her when she was around, because he did. Marina was fucking sexy. Her mind, her voice, her intelligence,her body..it was all a turn on for him but he was trying to do right by her, and that meant learning how to be intimate in more ways than sex.

Stepping out of his spacious walk-in closet fully clothed for bed he noticed the tv watching Marina as she laid against his pillows, remote still in hand. He accessed his smart home app from his phone and turned off his bedroom lights, weary body eager to sink into the cool mattress. She sought him out not long after he laid down, her bonnet clad head resting on his chest. He pulled her a little closer that night, her slow breathing and steady heartbeat lulling him into a deep slumber. A slumber where he met no angry souls or demons, only a warm light that encased him and drowned out the weariness.

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“Only thing that’s saving Terry ohhh is the heart of Marinaaa.” Terry kept his left hand steady on the wheel as Marina held his right hand singing loudly into his ear as she currently butchered Summer Walker's newest single.Why he let her down those three shots of tequila he did not know. Either way it went he loved seeing her let loose, and she wasn’t particularly stuck or or anything he just rarely saw this side of her.

The red satin dress was made for her, and she was practically a magnet for his affection as they both got ready. He couldn’t keep his hands off her. Her soft plush thighs were exposed to him and when she dropped his hand he eagerly rubbed and kneaded them.

He couldn’t wait for her to see where they were going. He had called ahead days ago and made preparations at his restaurant; Stone Pier. It was best known for its plentiful surf and turf meal options, fun and fresh atmosphere, and elegant dining. He had planned a three course meal for them tonight over an intimate candlelit dinner.

It took no time to arrive and Marina’s confused expression was comical to him. The empty parking lot had to look absolutely insane from her point of view, but he needed her to trust the process. She sat still as Terry blindfolded her and waited patiently for him to help her out of his car. He opened the passenger side door grasping her head and slowly leading her into the building. He sat her down at the table and removed her blindfold. Pretty eyes adjusting to the low lighting in the establishment.

“Terry woww…this place is soo beautiful. I’ve passed by it so many times and never had the opportunity to check it out.”

“Well I own it so feel free to stop by whenever. I wanted this to be special, so I figured why not bring you someplace that was as special to me as you are.”

“Well you've definitely made a good impression, this place is amazing…is that a Malcom X quote over there on the wall?

“Mhm ‘A man who stands for nothing will fall for anything’ that’s one I keep with me everyday.” He watched her eyes drag all over the place soaking in one corner and the next.

“All the greenery in here..omg all the black history. Terry, this place is a true gem. Thank you for bringing me here Smiley.” They leaned forward and shared a kiss before Terry poured them both a glass of sweet red wine and signaled for his top chef to serve their first course and he and Marina indulged in more conversation.

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The second course consisted of herb butter steak and lobster By their third course they were both full of food and wine. They shared a slice of decadent rum cake, savoring each bite of the moist cake. He watched Marina with lazy drunk eyes as she whined her waist slightly in her seat to Marvin Gaye’s ‘I Want You’. Pretty manicured fingers pointing in his direction with every lyric.

“You want me sweetheart.. give me a dance then. Show me.” He watched her confidently strut over to him and hold her hand out.

His long arms wrapped around her waist tightly, pulling her into his chest. His face nuzzled into her neck pecking at it lightly as they swayed under the glass roof, stars twinkling down at them in a dazzled fashion.

“I really like you Terry Richmond, I’ll admit that realistically I’m still a little nervous about this…but I’m learning to live in the moment and trust what I can see.”

“I really like you too Marina Evans. I’m trying my hardest to show up for you in ways that cater to you, my only hope is that in the end you choose me.” He twirled her around and held her back to his front holding her close.

They circled through a few more songs before they were ready to call it a night. He handed her his car keys to get inside while he locked up his restaurant. He shut down the dining lights and music before thanking his chef for being a huge help tonight. His phone vibrated on a repeat in his pocket and pulled it from the picket of his slacks, it was his cousin Semaj. Fuck. Semaj knew not to call him today yet he did, and that only meant one thing. Some bullshit had hit the fan, or it was going to.

[ -What’s the word man..I told you I couldn’t take no calls today about business.

[Scotty’s talking man, going around saying he been seeing you out with some girl..this shit could be a problem T. I told you that nigga was watching…he don’t just pop up.

[- If he been seeing me the whole time and I haven’t been seeing him.. it’s a chance he’s working with somebody… I thought that shit was weird earlier when he popped up but I couldn’t be too sure

[- Exactly, since when you know Scotty to be anywhere around this damn city besides the Southside… yeah something ain’t right T we need to get hands on him asap!

[- Never a day to fucking breathe around here shit.. I want you, Blue, and Prime with y’all motherfucking ears to the wind behind his ass. And don’t stop until yall find him.

[- Aight I’ll keep you posted every hour on the hour he can’t be far.

Terry ended the call and sighed heavily. He was pissed, fucking enraged. Somebody was snooping in his damn business and attempting to keep tabs on him like some coked out socialite. He wanted to regulate his temper before he was back in Marina’s grace but when he turned around he found a man talking closely to Marina through his passenger side window. His face scrunched up with confusion quickly as he made a quick walk over to his car.

“Hey my man… can I help you with something?” He had to look as agitated as he felt and the stupid expression on the man’s face was hard to ignore.

“Bro this car is fucking sick… I was just asking your girlfriend or you know whatever she is, what model this was, this has to be a custom paint job or something.” The man ran an open hand over the hood of Terry’s X6 irritating him even further.

“It’s not custom, it’s factory now get your hands off of my car and learn to admire some shit without touching it!”

“Are you kidding me man it’s just a fucking car, it’s probably rented anyways.” He sent a kick to his rear passenger door before attempting to walk away.

Terry couldn’t restrain himself anymore and he went flying at the disrespectful man. He snatched the man and turned him around to face him. How dare this man think he would walk up to him, disrespect his car and leave here unscathed.Balling the front of his shirt up Terry used it as leverage to send punch after punch to his face, he never even stood a chance against Terry.

“Terry..Terry.. wait please stop! Terry you’re gonna kill him..please.” Her helpless screeches reached his ears in a panic and Terry realized he had forgotten all about their date, his words to her. What did they really mean if he was going to beat somebody to a bloody pulp in front of her. With a menacing mug on his face he shoved the absolute waste of space to the ground and stepped over him like a patch of grass.

“Remember this ass whooping because next time I put my hands on you, they gone be singing and sending you off dressed in all black."

“Get in the car Marina…I’m ready to go.” He watched her eyes flash from the beaten man to him over and over, eyes clearly not believing the scene in front of her.

“Bu-but Terry he could die we have to call an ambulance..you can’t leave him like this please.” He shook his head no and watched a hand cover her mouth in an attempt to choke back tears.

“Get. In. The. Car. Marina..now.” She jumped at his tone before she hurried into the car, makeup smudged from the tears that came in a steady stream.

He whipped out of the parking lot quickly, headlights catching the woozy steps of the beaten man as he stumbled away.

“See he’s all good..Marina sweetheart what’s all these tears for hmm, I’m the one that got disrespected. Was I supposed to let him walk away after that shit?!” His raised voice boomed in the confined space of his vehicle and he watched her put space between them. Her body pressed into the passenger side door as she thumbed tears.

“Oh I see, I’m the bad guy now…he was all in your face by MY window touching on MY car, but you only feel bad for him…got it.” Terry gripped the steering wheel tightly and sped down the freeway. This night had turned for the fucking worse and even still he was trying to mince his words.

“Why are you yelling at me… you just assaulted someone in front of me Terry, and then you threatened to kill him. You keep speaking like I’m blaming you but I asked you to stop…to just please let him go..and yo-you just wouldn’t stop.”

“What I saw back there…that wasn’t the Terry or Smiley I’ve been getting to know…you didn’t even look like yourself back there, your face and eyes were just..I don’t know. I think I’m going to spend the rest of my days off at my own home.. I don’t even get you right now.” She continued on, and he was realizing each passing minute how royally he had fucked up.

“I fucked up Mari..I see that now. I realize that what I did back there scared you and if you think less of me after it that’ll be all on me, but I don't regret it.” Pulling into his drive way he shut off his car and rested his head against the headrest.

“You keep buckling down on what you did, but you said you would kill him. Terry, that's not something I can just ignore because he kicked your car, that’s not normal to blurt out after an altercation so small. You really hurt my feelings, and I have to think about me first.”

“Am I going to hear from you again..see you…touch you?” When he reached out to touch her she pulled away, her dark eyes turning to stare at him, analyzing what actually was in front of her. She shook her head and sighed to herself before opening the door, but Terry got up to help her out instead. She hesitated to give him her hand, but eventually she let him help her out.

He pulled her into a tight hug, fingers inching up slightly into her hair to tug lightly at it. The hairspray she used tickled his nose as he inhaled the scent of it. Her hands stayed at her sides and she made no attempt at returning the affection.

“I’m not sure Terry, I need time to think and process tonight. It was all going so well before that and I wanted to trust what you told me, but I need time.”

“A kiss goodbye then?” She looked up at him and pressed a kiss to the corner of his mouth before attempting to walk away. Terry pulled her back and held her face in his hands, full lips sucking her bottom lip into his mouth as his teeth slowly nipped at it. He wanted to savor what was left of this night because she still looked oh so good, and he still wanted her. He got as far as suckling against her jaw before she put a hand to his chest severing the connection.

“Goodnight Terry” she walked away without a backwards glance and he watched her leave from his driveway until he couldn’t see her car anymore.

He had plans on winning her back, and hopefully gaining what little trust back she had in him from the get go. Terry was a resourceful man with every resource possible at his fingertips, this situation was a bump in the road. Some shit she wouldn’t even remember eventually. So he’d let her run away for the night, get her pretty little head together for a few days. Then he was gonna win her back, one day at a time.

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A/N: I said 10pm yesterday and it’s going on 8am😭I hope yall enjoy this nonetheless!

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# Aaron pierre #rebel ridge #terry richmond #black!oc #terry richmond black oc

[beckyninja]

The Maiden

Pairing: Salamander OC x FemReader

Warnings: None, just angst

Description: The survivor Nev'ran saved from a Drukhari raid grows closer to her rescuer... even though she shouldn't.

I'm back! And, just like I promised, here's a sequel to my first Salamander OC fic, The Dragon. I just had to write more for this character. (Feel free to check out the other fics on my Masterlist, as well.)

Warm.

Your dazed mind conjured images of hot springs and steam-filled caverns. Your parents’ tired but smiling faces. Home. Were you home?

No.

Home was far, far away. They’d taken you, forced you into a mold not of your choosing. Quiet. Aloof.

Cold.

You’d been cold for so very long.

“Miss?”

The voice rumbled like the rockslides in your family’s mines. Yet, you felt no fear. You tried to focus on it, but your mind felt like gelatin.

“Can you hear me, little diamond?”

That wasn’t your name. But you liked the way the voice said it. 

“Can you open your eyes for me?”

It felt like weights had been placed on your eyelids. Slowly, so slowly, they lifted. Soft, flickering light streamed into your skull and you heard yourself gasp.

“There you are.”

Red eyes in a dark face. You shied back, fear flickering in the pit of your stomach.

The face smiled. “Do not be afraid, little diamond. You are safe.”

That voice…! 

You felt your lips curve around a single word. “Dragon….”

***

Three Days Later

“The Lord Apothecary thinks it best you not be left alone.” The medica motioned you through the door. “So you will be quartering with me, for the time being.”

You stepped into the little room. It could have been any serf’s quarters. But the soft rugs covering the metal flooring and pillows stacked upon the cot surprised you.

“Such comfort for a-,” you caught yourself.

“For a mere serf?” The woman, Matia, pursed her lips. “Yet I know it must pale in comparison to what you’re accustomed to, my lady.”

You looked away. She knew nothing of what you were accustomed to.

“It will do.” 

Matia gestured to a simple dress laid out on the cot. “This is the best our tailors could do on such short notice.”

No itchy frills. No laces so tight they cut your skin. 

“It is adequate.” 

“I will leave you to change.” Matia turned her back. “Get settled. In an hour’s time, I will return to guide you to the refectory. Unless,” she sent a cool glance back over her shoulder, “you would prefer to take your meals alone.”

You imagined sitting alone in the flickering candlelight. Alone with your thoughts.

“I will go to the refectory.”

“Very well…my lady.”

The door slid shut behind her.

You lowered yourself onto the cot, yet could not force your muscles to relax.

The Apothecary said you’d been delirious for the past few days, tossing back and forth on the medical bed, mumbling nonsense. You remembered nightmares. Screams coming through locked doors…inhuman eyes leering down at you…vicious laughter….

“No!” You pressed your hands over your face.

Don’t think. Don’t feel!

Another memory calmed the rising panic. His voice. 

All the tales you’d ever been told had painted the Emperor’s Angels as fearsome, unknowable beings. But he… he spoke to you. He smiled at you. His gaze melted through the ice in your soul.

“Nev’ran.” My Dragon.

***

As soon as you stepped into the refectory, you wished you’d decided to remain in Matia’s quarters. Conversation ceased in the middle of a word. Dozens of hooded heads turned to regard you. 

Matia gestured to the steaming containers of food. “It’s probably not as fine as you’re used to, my lady.”

Your mouth watered. Stomach overriding your shyness, you quickly filled a tray with hearty stew and an odd, flat bread. Again, the comforts these serfs enjoyed astounded you.

When you turned around, the medica had already taken a seat with another group of women. 

Maybe she didn’t mean for you to hear what she said to them.

“...never even asked the fate of the rest of her crew…never cried...dead, cold eyes.”

You took a seat at an empty table in the far corner of the room, appetite gone.

Booming footsteps made you jolt upright. Your heart raced as two of the Emperor’s Angels strode into the refectory. Far from the silent giants you’d seen carved into the walls of your family’s chapel, these warriors jostled each other, laughed, and called out greetings to the serfs.

The younger-looking of the two made a beeline for the medica and laid a massive hand on her shoulder. She smiled up at him.

The other turned toward you.

Nev’ran.

You jerked your head away and stared down at your lap. Heavy footsteps approached.

“Diamond.”

“M-my Lord.”

The bench creaked as he settled his bulk across from you. “How are you feeling today?”

“I am well, my lord. Thank you.”

“You are not eating? Is the food not to your liking?”

In a panic, you reached for the bowl of stew, only to realize you’d forgotten utensils. “I…I don’t…”

He chuckled. And yet, it didn’t sound mocking.

“I will show you how it is done upon my homeworld.”

You raised your eyes enough to watch his massive, scarred hands tear his own flat bread and dip it into the stew. You followed suit.

“Brace yourself. Our spices can be-”

Heat exploded across your tongue. You dropped the bread as coughs wracked your body.

“Throne!” A warm hand covered your entire back, patting gently. “Forgive me, I should have warned you sooner.” His voice rose. “Hur’reth! Bring water!”

“I am,” you gasped, “I am all right.”

The heat faded, leaving a delightful aftertaste. You reached for another piece of bread and scooped again. By the time the younger Angel placed a cup of water at your elbow, you’d already scraped the last bits from your bowl. 

“Would you look at that, Hur’reth? She eats like a Nocturnean!” Your Dragon’s rumbling laugh sent a flicker of heat through your body. “Continue like this, Diamond, and you will have your strength back.”

Finally, you scraped together the courage to raise your eyes to his.

He smiled down at you. “Would you mind this old drake’s company?”

Another flicker. Your rational mind hissed a warning.

Don’t feel. Stay cold.

But you couldn’t resist the tiniest of smiles. “I would not, my lord.” 

***

The Apothecarion fast became your favorite place on the ship. 

As the weeks passed, Nev’ran still insisted on daily examinations. He grumbled about the thinness of your form, the pallor of your skin. You found yourself lingering longer and longer afterwards.

He didn’t seem to mind your silence, telling you stories of Nocturne, the Salamanders, and the Primarch Vulkan as you perched on the edge of the examination table. You loved the sound of his voice.

You craved his warmth even more.

It will end soon. And then where will you be? Better to be numb.

“What brings such a sour expression to your face, Diamond?”

You blinked. “My Lord?”

“That is not my name.”

Heat flooded your cheeks and you looked at the floor. A thick finger tilted your chin back up.

When had he gotten so close?

“Say my name, Diamond.”

Another flicker of heat, like a sputtering candle at your core. “Nev’ran.”

Somehow, his eyes seemed to burn brighter. His hand moved to cup your cheek.

“So fragile,” he seemed to say to himself, “and yet, I sense fire within.”

The blissful warmth of his skin against yours caused your eyelids to droop closed. A rich, heady smokiness overwhelmed the medicinal tang of the Apothecarion. Breath not your own brushed across your lips.

“Nev’ran….”

The door to the chamber hissed open.

Your eyes snapped wide and you flung yourself from the examination table. Pain lanced through your feet as you dropped nearly six feet to the hard floor.

The Apothecary’s hand on your shoulder steadied you. “Easy, there. What-?”

You pulled away, heart pounding.

“F-forgive me, my lord. I-I am in need of rest.” You bowed hurriedly and limped toward the door.

The younger Apothecary stood there, staring down at you. The look in his narrowed eyes churned your stomach. With another bow, you slipped past him and into the corridor.

You pressed yourself against the wall and brought your hands to your face.

Stop feeling. Stop! 

But the flickering candle within refused to go out.

***

You did not return the next day. Or the next. And after your third polite excuse, Nev’ran stopped sending requests. He said he would respect your wishes.

Your nights passed in fitful spurts as the nightmares returned with a vengeance. Less and less did they return to you the Drukhari attack, instead filling your mind with terror for the future. Matia often did not return to her quarters during the sleep cycle, so you found yourself facing the horrors alone, shivering with a chill no amount of blankets could remedy.

In these moments of weakness, you turned to other things for comfort.

A soft smile, so incongruous in that broad, scarred face.

No, don’t.

A rumbling chuckle, making you smile in spite of yourself.

This is madness! 

An impossibly deep voice that meant safety.

Better not to feel.

Fiery eyes that saw you, the you you’d thought safely locked away.

Be cold, you little fool. It’s the only way to survive what is to come-

“No!” You flung away the blankets and sat upright. 

I want this. Even if only for a moment, even if it hurts.

The mad rush to the Apthecarion was a blur in your mind. When you finally stood in front of its door, you thanked the Emperor you’d passed no one on your way. What would they think of you? Feet bare, in nothing but a sleeping robe.

All thoughts of embarrassment faded away as you reached for the access panel…

… only to pause at the boom of raised voices within.

“Are you mad, Nev’ran?!” 

You knew that voice. The younger Apothecary who never seemed too far from Matia.

“This does not concern you, boy.”

“This concerns the whole chapter! She is not one of us!”

“Hur’reth-”

“No. Listen to reason, Master. If not for yourself, then for her sake. She is frail. She would never survive life among Astartes.”

“She survived the Drukhari.”

“By the blood of her guards, only. And do you not see how it broke her? Throne, from what Matia tells me, she is little more than a walking corpse-”

“Hold your tongue!” You jumped at the rage in Nev’ran’s voice. “There is fire in her, Hur’reth. I have seen it!”

Warmth flickered through you.

“Perhaps you only see what you wish to see.”

“What?”

“I should have waited to tell you of my mate. I see now it opened old wounds.”

A deep, low growl.

“She is not Ruby, Master.”

A thunderous bang and the door bulged outward. You gasped and shied away, though not far enough to not hear your Dragon’s roar.

“YOU THINK I DO NOT KNOW THAT!”

A long pause.

“Either way, Master, it matters not.” You froze. “She belongs to another.”

The candle within you sputtered out.

***

“We have informed the Planetary Governor of your arrival, my lady. He is sending a transport.”

The words came automatically. “I thank you for your courtesy, Lord Captain. I hope I did not inconvenience you.”

Captain Xavus nodded, a kind look on his face. “This planet was not far out of our way, thank the Emperor.”

You bowed. “The Emperor protects.”

“Indeed.” With another nod, he returned to his command station.

Through the viewports, you watched the planet spin slowly below. Even from orbit you imagined you could feel a chill from the dead, white expanse. Ice. Ice as far as the eye could see.

How appropriate.

You ran your fingers over the bodice of your dress, the same heavy gown you’d been wearing when the xenos attacked your original ship. The memory no longer sent terror clawing through you.

You felt nothing.

The medica, Matia, escorted you to the hangar bay. You caught her sending concerned glances your way and almost laughed. She’d described you as a walking corpse before. What must you look like to her now that you were truly dead inside?

Good girl. It’s better this way.

“Wait.”

You jerked to a halt, but kept staring straight ahead.

“Leave us, Matia.”

You heard the medica retreat, felt the massive presence at your back. “My Lord, you need not have troubled yourself to see me off.”

“Stop.” The strain in his deep voice made your stomach quiver. “Diamond, look at me.”

“That is not my name, my lord.”

Great, armored gauntlets turned you to face him with an irresistible strength. You kept your eyes on the floor.

“You do not want this.” 

Was it heretical to hear desperation in his voice?

“One woman’s desires are irrelevant in the face of dynastic politics, my lord.”

“Would you rather stay?” Hands, warm even through the armor, cupped your face. “Answer me!”

At the snarl, your eyes finally met his. The look within them shattered you.

“Nev’ran, it’s no use.” For the first time, you touched him, fingers playing over the scars on his cheek. “Thank you for saving me. Thank you for the kindness you’ve shown me. I wish….”

He turned his face, pressing rough lips to your palm. You allowed your Dragon’s warmth to wash over you one last time.

Then you turned toward the frost-covered transport.

Cold.

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[shatcey]

Mirror event (Victor)

Now it becomes clear why Vivi looks so much like hemself in this story. Because it wasn't a dream…

I look at this men standing next to each other, and think… I… belong there. Literally. Right there, between them. I've never felt like I belong to any place, perhaps because I really need to be there.

Okay...

And now Vivi's thoughts. As always, they made my brain explode a bit.

He was ready to kill her if something went wrong, because his children are at the top of his list of priorities (after the queen, of course), but… He still wants her to stay. I'm surprised… Is this a contradiction? Or does he just want to add another seed to his garden of children? Or… she is any different?

This… It's terribly sad. Does this mean that no one will ever want to take care of him? Maybe were afraid to do it? Didn't think of him as a person? It's become a painful topic for me lately… Could it be related to his abilities? Or his status? He is a man who stands firmly on his feet, who achieves a lot, who is the second person in the country. Maybe… No, I'm probably imagining…

Victor often talks about light and darkness. What if it's not just a metaphor… What if he really can see the color of the soul? He's a grim reaper after all. What would make so much sense… He can tell who deserves to die and who deserves to be saved. This makes him the same judge as William.

Sure… Victor drops such a bomb… I'm not even surprised. Bound… He's bound… trapped… restricted. Maybe he just phrased it that way, after all, they all have a grim fate. But… What if it's literal? What if… his fate not allow him to get to close to people? I don't like where this thought leads me to…

You're breaking my heart! Why??? What can't he do? Follow his desires? Or… being too close to someone? He doesn't allow himself to do this because he had some experience in the past… What was that? What happens to the other person? Why did he decide never to do it again? I have… so many questions.

No, don't you dare say that was the last time! I'm going to punch you, painfully….... on the shoulder. You look like a teddy bear, and I love hugs! You got the point, right?

Why is it in quotes? Who told you that? This person was lying! They can, and they will come true. Ally is proof of that. He didn't dream, but his dreams came true. Don't ask me how this is possible! It defies logic…

So… It was a very short story, but it managed to give me a headache. I'm… not surprised at all.

Now I'm curious to know what was in the other stories. I remember reading Ellis' story a year ago, and in the end he killed her. So… It was definitely a dream! If so… how can we read the story from his POV???

Don't tell me… Ally, don't let these guys exploit your abilities!!!! You are not a tool! I'll really going to punch Victor if that's the case.

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

🔝 𝕊𝕋𝔸ℝ𝕋 ℙ𝔸𝔾𝔼 🔝

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

[callmemonster68]

JAKE - God of Death ( smut )

An immortal reaper who, upon falling in love with a soul destined to depart, discovers a new perspective on life and death. The presence of this special person illuminates his dark world and awakens a lust he never imagined feeling.

Pairing: Jake, a deity X FemReader

Genre: Obscenity

Warning: Contains explicit content, unprotected sex, suggestive, penetration, explicit language, climax, sex, swearing, loss of virginity, hickeys, messy make-out sessions, dirty talk, compliments, rough sex, touching bruises, handcuffs, chains, sadomasochism , masochism, brands

Note: I'm recently starting to write, and English is not my native language. I apologize for any mistakes and hope to improve my writing. Feedback is always welcome!

On a tranquil night, under the moonlight, a field stretches out in silence, where life and death subtly connect. It is in this setting that an unexpected encounter takes place between Y/N, a submissive mortal, and Jake, the God of Death. This moment transcends fear and uncertainty, intertwining curiosity and courage in an intense and provocative conversation about life, death, and the mysteries that await us beyond.

It is an irresistible invitation to explore the deepest desires and hidden passions, as they surrender to the pleasures of what it truly means to live and love. Every whispered word becomes a touch, every glance an invitation to dive into the depths of pleasure and connection, revealing the secrets that make us shiver and draw us closer to ecstasy.

Jake: "You know you were destined to meet me, don’t you?"

Y/N: "Perhaps. But I’m not afraid of you. Death is just a part of life."

Jake (moving closer): "You’re different. Most fear what I represent. But you… you bring a light I’ve never known."

Y/N: "And you bring a mystery that fascinates me. What happens if I don’t leave?"

Jake: "Then, perhaps I can show you what it means to live intensely, even with death always lurking, like a forbidden desire."

Y/N: "What if I want to feel that intensity with you? Right now, while I still have time, to lose ourselves in one another."

Jake: "Then let’s savor every moment, every touch, every breath. Life is precious, even if brief, and I want you to feel that by my side."

Y/N: "Then, teach me to live, God of Death."

Jake: "What if I showed you that death isn’t the end, but merely a new form of existence?"

Y/N: "Do as you will; I am in your hands, God of Death."

The words carried such force and intensity that the atmosphere grew heavy. Y/N felt insecure yet drawn to the enigmatic God of Death. Her eyes were enslaved by the beauty and power he exuded. Without further hesitation, Jake also felt a connection with the mortal, and he couldn’t resist his overwhelming desire to satisfy himself with her.

In the dimly lit room, Jake and Y/N faced each other. Jake’s heart raced as he watched Y/N’s body tremble with anticipation. This was the moment he had been waiting for.

Jake: "Let’s begin, Y/N."

Y/N’s eyes widened. She knew what was coming. Jake gestured for her to kneel before him, and she obeyed, lowering herself to the floor. Jake’s hand traced the length of Y/N’s body, stopping at her waist. He lifted her and guided her to the bed.

Jake: "Take off your clothes."

Y/N undressed, revealing her flawless figure. Jake’s eyes widened as he admired her beauty.

Jake: "Lie down on the bed."

Y/N lay on the bed, her body exposed to Jake’s gaze. She closed her eyes, preparing herself for what was to come.

Jake stood beside her, his eyes fixed on Y/N’s. He smiled, savoring her submission. Y/N opened her eyes, meeting Jake’s gaze.

Jake: "I want you to remember every detail of this moment."

Y/N nodded, her heart racing. Jake picked up a whip from beside the bed, and Y/N shuddered with anticipation. Jake caressed Y/N’s body, running the whip over her skin. He watched as Y/N’s body writhed with pleasure.

Jake began to whip her, the sound echoing through the room. Y/N’s body twisted, and she let out a series of moans.

Jake: "You’re mine, Y/N! You’re my submissive, and you will do everything I say."

Y/N’s eyes widened in ecstasy. She felt herself being carried away by the intensity of the moment. After minutes of being whipped and praised by Jake, Y/N, unable to wait any longer, begged.

Y/N: "Please, I beg you, I need to feel you inside me."

Jake: "How adorable, so desperate for my cock. How could I say no to someone as eager as you?"

Without waiting for an answer, Jake set the whip aside and grabbed handcuffs from the drawer beside the bed. He secured Y/N’s hands behind her and positioned her on all fours.

A sharp smack and a surprised cry of pain escaped Y/N. Another smack, and the obscene sounds of Y/N’s mix of pain and pleasure echoed in the room. Without warning, Jake thrust his large, thick cock into Y/N’s wet pussy, eliciting a scream. The blend of sensations—pain and burning mixed with overwhelming pleasure—left her increasingly mindless.

Jake’s movements grew more violent, and Y/N’s moans became more intense. She felt herself being pushed to the edge of pleasure and pain, and she loved every moment of it.

With teary eyes, Y/N reached her orgasm. With a few more careless thrusts, Jake finally climaxed. Y/N felt overwhelmed by the intensity of the moment. Her tears streaked her face as Jake’s body trembled with pleasure.

Y/N lay on the bed, panting and exhausted, while Jake’s hand reached out to caress her face and body. She felt a wave of satisfaction and contentment washing over her.

Jake smiled, watching Y/N’s body relax in a state of bliss. He took her hand and kissed it, savoring the moment.

Jake: "You’re mine, Y/N. And nothing can change that, not even death."

Y/N smiled, her heart filled with a sense of love and devotion. She knew she had been completely consumed by Jake’s desires, and she loved every moment of it.

It wasn’t long before Y/N fell into a deep sleep from exhaustion. Jake watched her. His mission had been simple: find and reap her life. What had happened inside him to lead to this moment was a mystery to him. But he would do whatever it took to keep Y/N by his side after her death—his perfect doll, his vessel of lust, his sole obsession.

This story is part of the universe of ' Divine Sins: Immortal Fantasies with ENHYPEN ' created by me.Description:Seven sensual and mysterious tales that delve into the desires between mortals and immortals. Inspired by the members of ENHYPEN, these stories reimagine the group as powerful gods and a fallen angel, all wickedly alluring and irresistibly seductive. Each narrative immerses readers in a world of fantasy, unveiling forbidden passions, divine secrets, and the overwhelming intensity that sparks between celestial beings and an ordinary human. A universe brimming with lust, mystery, and the captivating allure of the forbidden, where every story is an invitation to desire. Contains mature content.

✿ If you don't reblog and comment, you can be sure I'll be showing up in your dreams tonight... and I won’t be as sweet as in the story ✿

[hearted-anon]

7 Days to Sana’s birthday: Because I memorised the date wrong.

Words: 1.013

Note: Her birthday is actually 13 Jan, posted at 6 Jan in my time here. So sorry about the mixup..

For: @itzsana-kiddingmenow,

titled: Warmth of a hug.

T/w: Angst, not much tickling

Taglist: @reginald-stay09 @itzsana-kiddingmenow @hetashi-takashimaya @soap143 @jungwon-is-the-one @minnielvrr @skzdiary

Lee: Channie

Ler: Minho

The world almost stopped, time seemed to move a lot slower when the news left their lips. His fingers twitched, his entire body felt stiff, feeling like he was paralysed in place as the words sunk in. It couldn’t be, he had worked so hard to keep the group all together, and yet he had failed to keep them united as one. On instinct, his eyes began to widen, the group’s reaction one in the same. Everyone except Minho.

“Lee Minho is eliminated.”

Although he tried to keep his feelings concealed under the guise of pursed lips and narrowed eyes being the strong leader he was, he could feel his heart shattering into a million pieces at the news. He, who had failed to protect Minho, he who wasn’t able to keep his group as one, he who was an absolute failure of a leader. He could see it on Minho’s face too, the shock, the sorrow that began to slowly seep into his expression, the way his posture deflated ever so slightly when it all sank deep into his bones, clawing at him like a darkness from within.

“I’m sorry. I’m really sorry.” Chan whispered, repeating it like a mantra in the back of his mind. The feeling of knowing he wasn’t able to save one of his members from elimination nagged at him, a sucker punch to his gut entirely if he could put it in his own words. His arms shook silently while they wrapped around the younger’s body, and tugging him closer to feel his warmth for one last time. No matter how he tried to hide it, tears began to run down Minho’s cheeks, staring off into the background as they both squeezed each other close, as if when they let go they’d disappear from their grasp.

Sobs rang throughout the practice room, once so full of warmth now feeling so empty, as if everyone’s soul had been sucked from those four walls right in that moment. The door closed behind them, allowing them some alone time to fully understand what they had just lost. It hurts, it hurts, was all Chan could think, the words burning into his mind as he pulled Lee Know closer to him, if that was even possible at this point. So vulnerable, so open was what they were, everything else a blur besides each other’s embrace, the little safety they had from the cruel world around them.

And that was the last time Minho ever let someone named Christopher Bahng Chan hug him.

“Lino~ Just one hug, please?” The leader pleaded from across the hallway, pawing at the fabric of the dancer’s sweater in a needy manner, complaining that he was incredibly cold with the winter season coming up in Korea. With the same, usual nonchalant expression, he pinched the elder’s nose with a soft coo, his warm smile a contrast to the stern shaking of his head that told Chan a direct no.

“I’ll do anything for a hug!” Anything? Now that was a game that sounded much better than giving into whatever he was planning for during the hug. He gave a thoughtful glance into the Aussie’s direction, chuckling at the way his face lit up with joy, as if he thought his method of persuasion would actually work; it was honestly endearing.

“Anything you say? Then hold still.” Chan didn’t have time to even question what Minho meant by that, before nails gently scraped over his stomach, poking at his abs tenderly while another pinched around his navel tauntingly, a knowing smirk on his face; it wouldn’t be any fun if the leader actually managed to hold still, would it?

“Ehehe! N-Noho! Don’t tickle mehehe!” The poor leader whined, struggling to stay even the tiniest bit still, it was a given with his nature. His hands pushed at the ones going rounds in his stomach, but it was ultimately futile, doing absolutely nothing. If anything, Minho would rather say it felt like kitten paws against his hands, so cute!

“Don’t? But you said anything, don’t go back on your word now~” He cooed, a breath ghosting the Aussie’s ears, snickering when they turned a bright red from the obvious tease. Chan could’ve sworn his soul just left his body.

“I cahahan’t tahahake it! Plehehease!” He pleaded, eventually falling to the ground like a puppy, Minho leaning over him before scribbling both his hands onto the vulnerable stomach right in front of him, a deadpan expression while he watched Chan shriek in surprise, before curling in onto himself; just. Like. A. Puppy.

“That’s too bad, you asked for this.” He tutted in faux disapproval, secretly concealing the wide smile he was holding back, it was going to make his cheeks hurt if he continued like this. But how could he not? Chan was the epitome of cute, his two dimples on display as his cheeks were a crimson red, his eyes crinkled into crescents with his hair messily sprawled over his face, what wasn’t to like?

“I’m sohohohorry! Noho!” The poor puppy- leader, whined, still kicking his feet like a little child would whenever they’re helpless, before deflating like a balloon when the younger finally let up on his stomach, unable to do anything but catch his breath. Without another word, Minho pulled Chan into a hug, one full of warmth, his fingers finding his waist and tenderly wrapping themselves around him.

The room had gone quiet yet again, but it wasn’t of the tension this time, now full of love that could be felt within the four walls of the practice room. Without knowing, tears unconsciously welled up in Minho’s eyes all over again, despite whatever tough personality he tried to put on, he could never keep it up whenever he was with his only Hyung. Sensing his emotional vulnerability, the elder tugged him closer, rubbing soothing circles on his lower back as his chin rested atop Lee Know’s shoulder, embracing who they truly were behind closed doors.

It was then Minho really understood the warmth of a hug.

[averillaratargaryen]

‘The Bitter Bond.’

Chapter X

18+ content (lotta smut🤭) ⚠️

As Aemond was striding past, on his way out, he felt a pull on his arm, as he had been dragged into a corner.

“What are you doing?” He whispered aggressively, in frustration, before looking up to Daerlyssa.

“Is it true?” She asked.

“Is what true?” Aemond looked at her confused.

“Ser Criston Cole” Daerlyssa responded, “you killed him?”

“I do not know what you speak of” Aemond shrugged, ready to walk away.

But he could not.

Not when he felt Daerlyssa grasp onto his arm, to hold him back.

“Tell me the truth. Please” Daerlyssa pleaded.

“Princess” he sighed, reaching his hand out to comfort her soft cheek.

But as he leaned in, she took a step away, not wishing to be touched.

Understanding her reasons, given what Ser Cole had done to her last night, Aemond sighed, placing his hand down, “whatever has been done.. it had to be done.”

“So he was murdered?” Daerlyssa placed her hand over her lips, as she stopped herself from letting out a hysterical cry.

As she took a breath, she let her hand down, before she whispered, “my parents are going to kill me.”

“Daemon and Rhaenyra do not have to know of this” Aemond responds.

“I can not keep this a secret” Daerlyssa shook her head, “n-no. My guilty conscience- I simply can’t!”

“Look at me” Aemond demanded, as he noticed Daerlyssa beginning to panic.

“N-no-!”

“Daerlyssa, look at me” He leaned toward her, getting a grip of her shoulders.

Despite her wish for him to let go, he held her tight, as he made her look into his eye.

“You are not to tell a soul, of what had happened” He whispered.

“But-!”

“You were not there. Whatever happened between me and Ser Cole, clear it from your head. I did what I had to do, this is my doing. Do not give yourself a guilty conscience on this” despite his demanding tone, Aemond looked toward her with a softened gaze.

“But why?” Daerlyssa shook her head, not understanding his actions, “why did you kill him?”

“You thought after last night, I’d spare him?” Aemond asks, “after what he did to you-!”

“But why did it matter?” Daerlyssa asks, “it happened to me.”

“Daerlyssa, I would kill any person who touched you the way Ser Cole had done” Aemond confessed.

“But why?” Daerlyssa asks.

“I do not know!” Aemond raised his voice slightly, out of frustration, “I do not know why I feel like this, I do not know why.”

As Aemond looked away, he hadn’t noticed the look of Daerlyssa’s face.

The look of realisation. That perhaps something was there.

He cared for her. He killed for her.

“All I know..” Aemond looks back toward Daerlyssa, “all I know, is that I will kill again, if need be.”

As the two look into each other’s eyes, Daerlyssa felt a sense of security in his look. A sense of emotion, she herself could not explain.

Yet this was the first, Daerlyssa found herself content.

She found herself secure, in Aemond’s presence, so much so, that she had forgotten Aemond’s hands that gripped both her forearms.

“What is happening?” Daerlyssa whispered.

“I-?” Aemond could not bring the words to his lips, as it felt he was living in his dream, once again, when he found her so close toward him.

Slowly, his hands drop, from grasping her arms, as one palm tries once again, to reach for her cheek.

Which Daerlyssa gracefully accepts.

The two look toward Aemond’s hand, that now placed against her skin.

As she felt his touch, Daerlyssa closed her eyes, lifting her head up slightly, as she let out a soft breath.

His thumb, which caressed her chin, as he rubbed against it, back and fourth, before looking away, and back to her red stained lips.

As Aemond leans in further, Daerlyssa took a step forward toward him, her nose brushing against his, as they had become quiet with one another.

“Princess-!” Daerlyssa was quick to open her eyes, the two moving away, before they turn to face Ser Harold.

“Ser Harold!” Daerlyssa exclaimed, with a nervous chuckle at the end, “I did not expect you to be back on duty this soon. I thought you were still to rest.”

“I am well now, Princess” Ser Harold walked toward the two, as he kept his facade on of not seeing a thing.

He did not wish to embarrass Daerlyssa.

“I must thank you, for getting me a maester last night. I do not know what had happened, I just-?”

“Do not thank me” she stops him from speaking, “you are more to me than just my guard.”

“Is there any reason you called?” Aemond chimed in, slightly annoyed.

Ser Harold averted his eyes behind his shoulder, “oh, Prince Aemond.”

He nods, with an awkward smile, before looking back to Daerlyssa, “it seems for you, that you have a visitor.”

“Me?” Daerlyssa asked.

Ser Harold nodded, with a genuine smile, “they are waiting at the grounds.”

Daerlyssa nods, walking away, as Ser Harold followed behind her.

“A visitor, you say?” Aemond asks, as he inserts himself beside Ser Harold.

“Lord Cregan Stark, Prince” Ser Harold responds, “it seems he had arrived worried, considering he hadn’t heard from Daerlyssa for quite some time.”

“I see” Aemond nods in response.

“He claims her raven did not get to him” Ser Harold raised his eye, as he turns his head to Aemond, “you wouldn’t happen to know anything, would you, Prince Aemond?”

“What, are you accusing me?” Aemond asks.

“Not at all” Ser Harold shook his head, “it is just a question.”

Ser Harold smirked to himself, as he turned away.

Aemond, noticing Ser Harold’s smirk, couldn’t help but ask, “do you know something?”

“Well, I could not help with what I saw just a minute ago, when I came looking for the Princess” Ser Harold responds, “Daerlyssa is a good girl. She is kind, and sweet. I would not want her to change.”

“I do not think I would change her” Aemond chuckled.

“No” Ser Harold nodded in agreement, “but do be careful with how you treat her. I plead with you, that you create a healthy alliance with one another, like your father wishes.”

Aemond, hearing Ser Harold’s words, looks to Daerlyssa, whose hair wavered from side to side, as her footsteps fastened.

“Lord Cregan Stark!” Daerlyssa shouted in excitement, as she ran toward him, and into his arms.

As she hugged him tightly, Cregan Stark had held Daerlyssa from her waist, in order for himself to stay in balance.

“My Princess” he chuckled in response.

After their graceful welcome, Daerlyssa let go, as did Lord Stark, before she let out a soft chuckle, “what are you doing here?”

“I am here to see you” he responded, “you are aware it has been a while, since your last raven. When you told me you were no longer in Dragonstone, well- I worried.”

“What do you mean?” Daerlyssa’s smile began to fade, “I sent you a raven just four weeks ago?”

“Unfortunately, that raven has not been sent to me” Lord Stark and Daerlyssa looked at one another, confused.

As the maester, coincidentally was walking past, Daerlyssa had stopped him.

“Princess” he looked at her with a nervous smile.

“I had given you a raven. Did it not get sent?” Daerlyssa asks.

“Oh, well I-?” As the maester’s eyes turned to Aemond, he noticed the glare in his eye, causing him to silence any truth, “y-yes, Princess. I had sent out the raven.”

“Then perhaps it has gotten lost” Daerlyssa chuckled, before turning around, to face Aemond and Ser Harold.

“This, is Ser Harold” Daerlyssa introduces him first.

“Your grace” Ser Harold had given Lord Cregan Stark his courtesy.

“So you are the famous Ser Harold” Lord Stark smiled, as he accepted his courtesy, “I have heard much about you.”

Lord Stark then turns his head toward Aemond, before Daerlyssa looks toward him, with a worried smile.

“Are you not going to introduce me?” Aemond gives out a cocky smile, “your favourite uncle, aren’t I?”

“That is my Uncle, Aemond” Daerlyssa glared at him.

“A pleasure, my Prince” Lord Stark gives him a formal greeting.

“I must say, Daerlyssa, has spoke of you quite as much” Aemond took a couple of steps down, as he comes face to face, with the man.

“Good things, I hope” Lord Stark chuckled.

“Hmm” Aemond’s eye had travelled up and down, as he looked at Lord Stark in silence.

“Your grace?” Daerlyssa called out to Lord Stark.

However, with no clear physical direction, of whom she was speaking to, Aemond had turned to face her, as he responded.

“Yes, my dear?” He cocked his head, with a smile.

Daerlyssa looked at him, her eyes widened just an inch, as she was wondering what he was doing, or what had suddenly gotten into him.

“Is everything alright?” Lord Stark asks.

“Y-yes” Daerlyssa looks to Lord Stark to give an encouraging smile, before looking back to Aemond, playing along, “well.. I was hoping that perhaps you could take Lord Stark to the guest room. I should inform my parents, that he is here.”

“Of course” Aemond turns to face Ser Harold, “you must know where to send him to.”

“Yes, of course” Ser Harold then looks to Lord Stark, “if you could follow me, your grace.”

As Ser Harold began walking forward, Lord Stark had given Daerlyssa a quick peck, against her head, before following behind.

Daerlyssa watched him walk in with a smile, until there was no sight of him.

With her smile dropping, she turned to face Aemond, before pushing him lightly, “what do you think you’re doing?”

“You have allowed him here, in the Dragons nest. Lord Stark is a man of Winterfell. Perhaps you did not think this through” Aemond warns her.

“What do you mean?” Daerlyssa asks.

“He does not belong here. Does not-!” He looked away with a sigh, before taking a step forward to whisper to her, “he does not belong with you.”

“You can not decide that for me” Daerlyssa scoffed.

“It will end badly, Princess” Aemon responds.

“I will judge that for myself” Daerlyssa turns away, before walking back in, leaving Aemond to watch her from behind, as she walks in.

-

As Lord Cregan had settled in, Daerlyssa had invited him over that same evening for dinner.

Whilst he had found her fine and content, she found it harsh to just send him back, and wished to have him stay the night.

“Is the table always divided like this?” Lord Stark whispered toward Daerlyssa’s ear.

“Usually our parents engage in conversations we are not allowed to hear. So the rest of us sit at the opposite side, engaging in our own conversations” Daerlyssa responded.

“My grandfather told me that he’d let me ride out sea” Lucerys spoke, as Daerlyssa heard, turning back to face the others.

“Of course he did. You are his favourite” Jacerys rolled his eyes.

“He loves us both the same” Lucerys assured his brother, “he just wishes that i train alongside him, considering i am heir to Driftmark.”

“Sure” Jacerys nods.

“You’re marrying his favourite daughter, Baela” Daerlyssa points out, “if he did not like you, I’m sure he would have rejected.”

“It must be nice” Helena pointed out to the three siblings, “our grandfather doesn’t seem to take a liking to any of our interests.”

“That is because you are fascinated by things like bugs” Aegon scoffs.

“Your drowning cups is not any better” Helena hit back, before the two childishly stick their tongue out at one another.

Lord Stark let out a chuckle, as he turned to face Aemond, “what of you, Prince? Any interests?”

“Aemond likes to read” Aegon answered for him, “he also writes.”

Aemond looked toward his brother, shutting him up with his eye.

Daerlyssa tilted her head as she looked toward him, “you write?”

“It is nothing” Aemond shook his head.

As the two look at one another, Daerlyssa had a realisation, of the book she had witnessed last night.

Perhaps that book had belonged to Aemond.

“Daerlyssa has taken an interest in reading too, since being here” Aemond takes the attention off him.

“You have?” Lord Stark asks, turning to face her.

“I have?” Daerlyssa questions herself, being caught off guard.

“Of course!” Aemond gave out an exaggerated smile, “the Bla-!”

“The book on histories!” Daerlyssa raises her voice over Aemond in panic, as she answers, “it is just historical books, that i read.”

Lord Stark nods, with an impressed pout.

“She sure does love the histories” Aemond sighed, as he leaned back in his chair, “so much so, that she ask I help her, in finding the best book for it.”

Daerlyssa turns to face him, looking at his cocky smirk before mouthing to him, ‘stop it.’

“As a reader, I’m sure you have been quite helpful” Lord Stark smiled.

“You could say that” Aemond smiled back.

Daerlyssa turned away, wishing to be swallowed by the gods eye in that moment, as Aemond only had her worry the rest of the evening, wondering what else he would try to slip out.

-

As it got dark out, Aegon lead the way, as Lord Stark followed, given the cape Aegon had offered to him, as a disguise.

He wished to introduce the lone city to him.

“Aemond!” Aegon whispered, as he knocked repeatedly.

“What?” Aemond responded in a low voice.

Aegon opened the door as he barged in, pulling Lord Stark in with him, then closing the door behind them.

“What are you doing?” Aemond sat up on his bed, when he noticed Lord Cregan Stark stood beside his brother, in a cape he knew was familiar.

“I am taking Lord Stark out to see the city, for himself” Aegon smiled from ear to ear.

“Yes i can see that” Aemond then stood up, out of his bed, “but why?”

“It will be fun!” Aegon exclaims.

“Besides, it will be interesting to see what the women of your city are capable of, compared to the women in mine” Lord Stark chuckled.

“I’m sorry?” Aemond’s eye twitched slightly.

“Oh, i said I’ll take him to visit the whorehouse” Aegon admits.

“What about Daerlyssa?” Aemond asks.

“Daerlyssa is a beautiful young woman, and a good friend. That is all” Lord Stark responds, “i am sure she will not mind it, should she find out.”

“You don’t plan on telling her?” Aegon suddenly looked concerned.

“She is young. She should not know of such things” Lord Stark responds.

“Oh- right” Aegon let out an awkward chuckle, before looking to his brother in shock.

“Well.. off you go then” he brushed the two men out, from the back of his room, he closed the door behind him.

He let out a scoff, as he looked back into his room, wondering why Daerlyssa wished to be with a man like him, who only thought of her as a little girl.

He felt it, that Lord Stark did not deserve Daerlyssa. But it was not his place to say.

What was his place, however, was to visit Daerlyssa tonight.

-

Daerlyssa stood near her bed, letting out a sigh before she dropped herself down, onto her bed.

She was glad to have met Lord Stark after a very long time. However, she could not help but notice, the spark she had felt, when she first met him, was no longer there.

Was it because she was younger at that time? Or perhaps, it is due to the distance they have with each other.

She could not comprehend why it felt much different this time.

The thought had crossed her mind, that perhaps Aemond’s meddling caused her to become distracted. Maybe she missed the spark, that was still there.

But even so, it was very less.

She lay, looking at the ceiling, as she wondered what she must do.

She could visit him in his chamber.

Maybe even show him to her grandfather’s library.

No. Instead, Daerlyssa closed her eyes slowly, as she began to imagine Lord Stark’s presence before her.

“My Princess” he called out, leaning in to kiss her.

But his face became blurry, until clear once again, except it was no longer his face.

“What is wrong, my dear?” Aemond called out to her.

She opened her eyes, immediately sitting up, wondering what had gotten into her, for her to imagine such a thing.

Until there was a knock at the back door.

Daerlyssa looked toward it, wondering who it could be.

But no doubt, did she trust it to be Aegon, when she made her way to the door, only to open it and be greeted, by Aemond.

“What are you doing here?” Daerlyssa sighed, as her smile faded, turning away from him, and walking back into her chamber.

“Is that any way to speak, to your favourite uncle?” Aemond teases.

“I do not appreciate how you have been today” Daerlyssa gave him a slightly nudge, “you had almost let my secrets slip.”

“Why not? I thought you’d want him to know, of your wildest fantasies” Aemond teases, once again.

Daerlyssa looked up at him, with a straight face, causing Aemond to let out a chuckle.

“Aright, I’ll stop” he insisted.

“He can not know of the books I read” Daerlyssa sat at her bed, her eyes following Aemond, who then sat beside her.

“Why not? I thought you wished for him to see you in a different light. Maybe as someone who is a mature, young woman. Not a little girl” Aemond responds.

“I wish” Daerlyssa responds, “but with Lord Stark, he would never see me that way. He has always seen me as a little girl.”

“He has?” Aemond asks, despite knowing the truth, of how Lord Stark viewed her.

“It is not a big deal” Daerlyssa shrugged, “and beside, I do not think such matters interest the Lord of Winterfell. If anything, his duties mean more to him, than just sex.”

“Right” Aemond nods, looking away.

It pained him not to tell the truth. But it would pain him more, to see the sad look on Daerlyssa’s face.

“So, you’ve been writing a book?” Daerlyssa changes the subject, as she turns to face him.

“It is nothing. Just some.. poetry, i suppose. A play about, with words” Aemond cleared his throat.

“So, the poem of her purple eyes.. was that just a play of words?” Daerlyssa asked, “because it is actually quite beautiful, the way you have captured this woman with purple eyes.”

“You have read it” Aemond sighed, looking embarrassed.

“You have a gifted talent, Aemond. Instead of constantly shielding yourself, and seeming harsh toward people and the world, make use of your talent. Show people who you truly are” Daerlyssa held his hand.

He looked down, toward Daerlyssa’s gesture, before looking up at her to notice how she spoke without looking in his direction.

She continued on and on, and yet he only continued to wonder if she knew, she was holding onto his hand.

“I should hope one day a man would write something for me” Her statement was clear to him, before she turned to face him.

She noticed his stare, and felt herself nervous.

“What is it?” She asks softly.

He shook his head no, with a light smile, his eye then pointing down at her neck, to the star shaped necklace she wore.

His hand slipped out, from under hers, as he reached out to grab a hold of the pendant, his thumb rubbing against it.

“Valyrian steel” he whispered.

“My father gifted me this” Daerlyssa responded, “he would bring my mother necklaces and gifts, during their younger times too.”

“It is eye catching, certainly. But why a star?” He asks.

“Well, my father always told me i was bright and charismatic. My mother told me that every time she’d look in my eyes, they’d twinkle. Like a star” Daerlyssa explains.

Aemond could not stop the smile against his lips, to such innocence.

“Then perhaps I ought to call you Star” he responds.

“Do not!” Daerlyssa taps him lightly against his arm, believing Aemond to be teasing her, “my dear was quite enough.”

“Except, you truly are a star” Aemond nods, “Daemon and Rhaenyra are right in how they describe you. Your twinkling eyes, and bright smile.”

Daerlyssa watches his hand that wavers up to the strand of her hair placed over her face, as his fingers gently place them back, behind her ear.

But remembering what he had done, she could not accept his intimacy, as she looked away “Aemond.”

“I know I had done wrong by you” he whispered, his eye looking at her with plea as she slowly turned to face him once again.

“Daerlyssa, you make me nervous” he confessed, “your gaze, your touch. I just- I don’t know what to do or how to explain this feeling to you.”

“You do not have to” Daerlyssa assured him.

“I am an idiot, for leaving you that day. I know how hard that must have been, and I do not fault you for hating me. But I did not mean it, not intentionally. I made a mistake” Aemond apologised.

It was the first Daerlyssa had seen such a side, to him. Perhaps he was truly sorry, given the fact that he saved her life, and took her side, after Ser Cole’s doing.

To take her side, despite him being bought up and looked after by Ser Cole, it truly meant that he cared for her.

Daerlyssa nods in acceptance, “I forgive you.”

She felt Aemond’s fingers tremble, through her hair, as she watched him shuffle closer toward her.

His head tilting, as did her, when the two began to lean into one another.

“Perhaps we ought to finish off what we were to do, this afternoon” Aemond whispered, gazing down at her lips, before looking back into her purple, glistening eyes.

She gives him a single nod, speaking with trembled lips, “perhaps we should.”

With a feel to each other’s nose, and their breaths lingering against each others lips, Aemond was the first to make his move, as his lips gracefully pressed against hers.

Her hand hand risen up, to his shoulder, as she slid it up from his chest, shuffling herself closer to him.

Despite it being her first kiss, she had done exceptionally well, considering Aemond’s soft groan against her, as his fingers tightened its grip, through the strands of her hair.

Motioning her down, Aemond then lay her, with her back against her bed, and himself hovered over her.

His hunger grew for her, at the feel of her squirm, beneath him, when she held him close to her.

He did not wish to let their lips become apart, yet hadn’t much of a choice, as he wished to get a look at her once again.

As he pulled apart, lifting his head up, Daerlyssa’s eyes fluttered open, in worry.

“Is something wrong?” She asked.

He shook his head no, as his eyes searched around her flustered face, “there could never be anything wrong. Not with you.”

Daerlyssa watched his movements, as his hands travelled down her thighs, as did his eyes, “if you’d let me..”

“What will you do?” She asks him.

Looking back up at her, Aemond then answered, “touch you.”

His whisper sent a cold shiver down her spine, as her heart began to beat at a pace she did not know was possible.

She noticed his forfeit, as his hands slowly began to make its way back up, but she was fast on holding onto his wrist.

Looking up at her in confusion, her nod was all he needed to understand, as the look in her eyes, he had read it to be of acceptance.

His hands made its was back down to her thighs, his fingers clawing her, as she let out a soft breath.

He looked up to notice her head tilt backward, a little, her eyes threatening to touch.

“Does he touch you like this?” Aemond whispered, his clawed fingers dragging down her thigh.

“N-no” she stuttered, knowing he was referring to Lord Cregan Stark.

With a light chuckle, both his hands had come to undress her lower body, before he kissed his way up.

From her ankles, to her calves, reaching to her thighs, his eye watching every inch of her, as her quiet moans continued to escape.

With both his hands gripped to her outer thighs, Aemond had buried himself in, her scent of sweet lavender, driving him insane.

Daerlyssa continued to look up, her hands pressed against her stomach, as she calmed her nerves. She did not seem to expect for this to have happened, so soon.

She could feel herself throbbing, a trickle of wetness down her inner thighs, before hearing the sound of Aemond taking a deep breath in, his nose and lips pressed against her.

Letting out a gasp, Daerlyssa grasps tightly onto the blanket beneath her, not knowing what was to come.

“Daerlyssa” he called out.

“Hm?” She was quick adjust herself up, her lower arms holding her up as they leaned against her bed.

“I want you to look at me” He whispered.

“Look at you?” She gulped, “w-why?”

“It makes it much more fun” he chuckled at her nervous response.

She nods, watching how he lifts both her legs up, letting her thighs rest against his shoulders.

“Why did you-?”

“Shh” he whispered, looking up at her, his head placed in between her legs, “just relax.”

She nods, quietly waiting for what is to come.

Aemond places his thumb against her clit gently, caressing her in a circular motion.

He felt her leg shaken slightly, due to the sensitivity of his touch.

As he leans in, Aemond looks up, his eye meeting hers, before placing a kiss against her.

The tensity in her legs seemed obvious, and the only thing left for him to do was take that away.

He started off slowly, in order for her not to become startled, but rather ease in to pleasure. The continuous kisses against her, his hot breath warming her up inside.

Daerlyssa found herself stunned, her mouth agape, having no clue what was going on at this very moment.

Aemond, her Uncle, was kneeled before her, ready to give her the pleasure that she desires.

Perhaps it was the reason to why Daemon and Rhaenyra had fallen in love with one another.

Aemond found her beginning to relax her pent up muscles, as she took a breath. Her fingers no longer fisted, and clasped tightly, but rather, she let them loose and free.

The indication was given, as Aemond began to step up his pace.

He continued rubbing against her clit, giving her kisses with his lips, until he bought in the weapon of his tongue.

She shuddered, as she felt his tongue deep inside her, as it had come to her with such suddenness. Yet, it felt much to pleasurable for her to complain.

Again, Aemond had started of slowly, introducing his tongue inside her with slow strokes, practically buried in between her legs, nose deep.

Despite her scent continuing to drive him insane, he kept patience with her, as much as he wished to have torn her apart completely.

His free hand had begun to itch, his fingers tempted as they made their way below his tongue, and with two of them, he placed inside her.

Daerlyssa jolted up in surprise, as he pushed his fingers deep inside of her, his tongue continuing to do its magic.

It was not long, before Aemond could hold himself back. As much as he wished to go slow, and steady, watching Daerlyssa, eye to eye, as she softly moaned out his name, only made it trickier.

His fingers continued to move in and out of her, the squelching noises, due to the wetness, beginning to become a turn on, for both, Daerlyssa and Aemond.

Leaning back a little, against her elbows, Daerlyssa then placed one hand behind Aemond’s hair, her fingers now running through his hair, as she found herself comfortable enough to moan out his name.

No longer quietly.

“You’re so beautiful” he whispered to her, words of affirmation.

She let out a simple “hmm” as she bit her bottom lip, containing everything she had within her.

Rolling her eyes, Daerlyssa tilted her head back, as she felt herself getting closer to her climax.

Aemond finally parted his lips away from below her clit only his fingers now being the main source of pleasure.

His lips had become wet, and sticky, but he did not mind it.

Of course he did not mind it.

“I can’t-!” Daerlyssa tried her best to look toward him once again, yet her head gave an immediate reaction to being tilted back, as Aemond continued hitting the right spot.

“Just a little longer, Princess” his eye now became focused to what was in front of him, as he watched his fingers fasten.

He was sure by now, that he had already came in his pants.

But he did not care. What mattered to him was Daerlyssa, not himself.

“I can feel it coming” she squirms, looking at him worried.

“Have you not felt this before?” He asks, “I thought you have pleasured yourself.”

She shook her head no, “it has never felt.. this good.”

“Tighten your legs” he instructs her.

“Like this?” She asks, tightening it over his shoulders, and trapping his head, having it wedged inbetween both her thighs.

With a satisfied smile, and a light chuckle, Aemond answered her, “just like that.”

With her moans increasing, and the tingly feeling against his fingers, Aemond knew it was only second before she was to cum, and so, he lay her down, as he took her hand.

She held onto it tightly, before she released, gasping repeatedly, as she felt dizzy.

Her eyes crossed together, as her loud gasps gradually had become quieter, until it became smaller breaths.

Aemond gently removed his fingers, finding her cum all over them, and smirked quite proudly.

Gently, he placed Daerlyssa’s shaking legs down, as he bought himself up to hover over her.

She looked up at him, her eyes restless, before they fluttered to widen, as he placed his cum covered fingers into his mouth.

“W-what are you doing?” She looked at him puzzled.

“The Black Flower Tale does not teach you to a certain extent on all the pleasures” he smirked, leaning in to give her one last kiss against her lip. Moving away, he looked into her eyes as he whispered, “Star.”

════ ⋆★⋆ ════

[misswynters]

Innocent

short drabble

featuring. ambessa x princess!reader

requested by anon

a/n. a short drabble in honor of the new league cinematic video. (not proofread)

Whispers followed you wherever you went, delicate and sweet like the trailing ribbons of your pastel gown. A princess from a distant land, they called you, with eyes like morning dew and a smile so radiant it could disarm even the most hardened souls. You walked beside Ambessa Medarda as you entered Piltover’s council chamber, her imposing presence drawing wary glances and tightened jaws. But you, oh, you were such the opposite compared to her with your delicate hands grazing the edge of the table as you curtsied. The softness of your voice weaving through the room like silk.

They couldn’t understand it. What was someone like you, someone that was the vision of elegance, doing at the side of a woman like Ambessa? A warlord who ruthless and cunning, with a reputation for crushing anything that stood in her way. You looked out of place at her side, like a butterfly perched on the shoulder of a lion. But appearances, as Ambessa had taught you, were the first weapon in your arsenal.

“Your Highness,” one of the councilmen greeted, his tone dripping with condescension as he rose from his chair. “It is truly an honor to have such a distinguished guest among us.” His gaze lingered a moment too long on your soft hair and the glimmering jewels that adorned your wrists. You smiled, tilting your head ever so slightly.

“Thank you, my lord,” you said, your voice so sweet it bordered on saccharine. “I must confess, I find Piltover to be… overwhelming. Such brilliance and innovation, but so complex. I hardly know where to begin.” You laughed softly, the sound drawing smiles from more than one member of the room. Ambessa remained silent beside you, her sharp gaze watching, as you worked your magic on the men.

“You need not worry, Princess,” another councilman intersected, his voice laced with eagerness and a touch of pride. “We are more than happy to guide you through anything you wish to understand. Perhaps… I could offer you a private tour of the academy?” His tone was almost gallant, but the hunger in his eyes was unmistakable.

Your cheeks flushed, as you clasped your hands together. “That is so kind of you, my lord,” you said, casting your gaze downward shyly before glancing back up through your lashes. “I wouldn’t want to impose, but I’ve always been so fascinated by Piltover’s Hextech. Perhaps I could ask you a few questions later? I wouldn’t want to take up too much of your time.”

Ambessa fought the smirk tugging at her lips, her arms crossed as she leaned back against the far wall. You were perfect. Every tilt of your head, every soft-spoken word was calculated to pull strings you weren’t even sure the men knew they had.

The council meeting proceeded, but you hardly paid attention to the broader discussions. Instead, you focused on planting seeds into the minds of the men. Compliments so subtle they felt like afterthoughts, questions that seemed harmless but dug at the roots of Piltover’s inner circle. By the time the meeting was over, you had gathered more than enough information to satisfy Ambessa’s expectations.

As the members filtered out, one lingered, his gaze fixed on you. “Princess,” he began, a nervous chuckle escaping him. “I couldn’t help but notice your… curiosity earlier. If you truly wish to learn more about Hextech, I could arrange a demonstration for you. Something private, of course, so you could see its full potential.”

Your lips curved into a soft smile, even as the words you spoke were sharp enough to cut. “You are too kind, my lord,” you murmured, stepping closer until you were just within his space. “I would love that. Perhaps tomorrow evening?”

The man nodded eagerly, his face alight with excitement as he stumbled over his words. Ambessa cleared her throat, her presence suddenly oppressive as she stepped forward. “Her Highness will have a full schedule,” she said, her voice like the edge of a blade. “But I’m sure she’ll find time for your… demonstration.”

As the man hurried off, you turned to Ambessa, your expression dropping the moment he was out of sight. “Amateur,” you muttered under your breath, your sweet demeanor melting into something sharper. Ambessa chuckled, resting a hand on your shoulder.

“You’ve done well,” she said, her voice low and approving. “They’re all wrapped around your little finger.”

You looked up at her, a small smirk playing on your lips. “Of course they are,” you replied, your tone light but edged with pride.

Later, as you sat on the edge of the bed in Ambessa’s quarters, she watched you from her seat by the fire. You were still the picture of sweetness in your pink nightgown, your hair falling in over your shoulders, but she knew better. Beneath that façade was a mind as sharp as any blade she wielded.

“You were perfect today,” she said finally, her voice breaking the silence. You turned to her, your smile genuine this time as you padded over to her chair.

“Only because you taught me,” you said softly, kneeling at her feet. Ambessa reached out, her rough hand brushing against your cheek, her touch surprisingly tender.

“Couldn’t be prouder,” she murmured, her voice softer than you’d ever heard it. You leaned into her touch, your eyes closing as a contented smile spread across your lips.

Innocence was your mask, manipulation your weapon, and loyalty to Ambessa the thread that bound it all together. You were exactly what she had shaped you to be. It was easy to manipulate others when they weren’t expecting it from a person with such a sweet demeanor. Clearly you proved them wrong, well eventually.

taglist. @blckbny @ch-bl0gsss @b-lossm @fortluocha @ekkosh @limereance @wolfessa @themostlesbianever @simonapietra @1-800-fantasy @saikikittykusuo @sevikaishot @sugarplumz100 @chaostudi @wxwrites @m-0-mmy-l-0-ver33 @robzo4 @puppyphia @xreadersarchive @boom58 @d3adbrainer @kylorey25 @slutmeoutfortoge @yaeil @sapphicarribean @randomperson291 @mvistl @hellokittyfeenie @literallyimthenerdemoji @nikaachuuuu @prettysupplicant @iamaboringrattat

[karespocketboyfriends]

𝙸𝚗𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚝𝚠𝚒𝚗𝚎𝚍

Chapter Three

A Love and Deepspace Fanfiction (Sylus X OC)

Warnings -> Side character death, implications of addiction

<- Chapter Two

An original fan-fiction for Love and Deepspace. I appreciate reblogs but reposting to Tumblr or any other site is not okay with me.

When it rains, it pours.

And it's fucking pouring.

“Sorry!” I exclaim to the poor group of kids that are forced to jump apart in order to avoid being run over by me.

The sky, dark as it may be for the late morning hours, is clear, not a drop of rain in sight. The tragedy I witnessed last night kept me tossing and turning, had my nerves shot to a point of being unable to relax. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw the man, Anthony, dying before me. Felt his blood coating my skin. Saw a pair of gemstone red eyes that exposed me right down to my soul.

At some point, I did manage to fall asleep. What I woke up to wasn’t my alarm, but my brothers making a mess of the kitchen. It didn’t take long for the realization that I had slept in to cut me like a dagger. The realization that I was late for work stabbed through me like an ancient sword.

I almost forgot to take my medication on my rush out the door, and forgetting that would have been the cherry on top of this disaster cupcake.

My calves are burning, lungs threatening to give out, but I push myself around the last corner and down another quarter block until I reach Tomes. It blends in with the rest of the modern day architecture, much so that it doesn’t even look like a bookstore, but it’s precious to me regardless. Tomes has been my first and only job, the place that’s filled with the material thing I love most and kind enough to help me keep my brothers and I housed and fed. Maybe not very well, but it’s saved us from being out on the street.

I almost fall on my ass in front of the glass door lined with bars to keep thieves out, partly because of how abruptly I halted, and partly because of the large ‘Permanently Closed’ sign hanging on the door.

“What?” I whisper through my fight for breath, the shock of the sign making it even more difficult to calm my racing heart.

No matter how many times I read it, the letters don't rearrange themselves. My mind doesn't spot a trick my eyes are playing on me.

Chest heaving, I stumble to the door and pull on the vertical handle. It's not locked, so I let myself in. Everything looks just as it did last night, no sign of books being stored away or shelves being moved out. The register hasn't even been opened yet, the till missing and likely still locked up in the safe. The store is dead quiet, and no matter how hard I strain my ears, I can't hear any movement on the first floor. Above me, however, I hear footsteps.

"Russell?" I call, slowly making my way towards the staircase at the back of the store. I've never been to the second floor, because old man Russell lives up there. He did share the space with his wife, Edith, but that was up until she passed away three years ago.

I listen as the footsteps move across the ceiling, hold my breath as they slowly make their way down the stairs. The person who appears isn't elderly, or a man at all.

"Evie?" The woman breathes, one hand resting on her largely round stomach, her eyes red and raw.

"Charlotte."

She's Russell's daughter, his pride and joy. He keeps a photo album behind the counter, and whenever there was free time, he would sit on a stool and flip through it. He's shared with me story after story of the photos, so even though Charlotte and I weren't very close in school before I dropped out, I feel as though I know her like a best friend.

"How are you? How's the baby?" I ask, trying to remain polite despite the questions racing through my mind.

Her laugh is strained as she draws a circle on her bump. "He's healthy. A big mover." She carefully makes her way down the rest of the stairs, and after reaching the bottom, leans against the banister. "I'm sorry, I didn't know how to contact you. I'm still going through dad's stuff."

I swallow the lump in my throat. "He... He's not...?"

Charlotte flashes a sad smile and nods, fresh tears brimming in her eyes. "Yeah. He didn't call me this morning, so I came to check on him. It'll take a while for the autopsy, but he didn't have any physical wounds."

Closing my eyes, I suck in a deep breath and struggle to keep my voice from cracking. It does anyway. "I'm so sorry."

"Me too." She looks down and rubs her belly again. "He was so excited to meet the little one. He never said it, but when he found out I was expecting, I think he was having regrets about waiting so late to have kids."

In, out. In, out. Mentally, I'm focused on my breathing. Whatever comes out of my mouth is pure instinct. "I can't say for sure, but I do know that he loves you. Russell would never regret that."

Charlotte laughs a little and looks up at me again. "You haven't changed. You're still a beam of sunshine, aren't you?" The lightness in her expression falls bleak once more. "Um, listen, about the shop-"

It's my turn to sport a sad smile. "I saw the sign."

"I'm sorry, Evie, but the money I'd get from selling this place is more beneficial to me than to keep it."

"You don't have to explain. You have a family to look after. I get it." I nod towards the counter. "Russell keeps a phone book under the counter, my number's in there. If you ever need a friend, feel free to reach out."

My mind feels like its in a daze as we say our goodbyes. I don't even remember how we said farewell or leaving the shop, but the crisp air zaps me back the second I'm standing outside.

Russell's dead, a man who did more for me than my own father has, a man who hired a desperate young girl even though he really didn't have the budget for it back then. The memories of my time here start coming back to me, the busy days were he, Edith and I rushed around to get the orders stocked on the shelves, the quiet days where he'd place a record in the record player and waltz around the store with his wife. Every holiday, including my birthday, he'd let me pick a book from the store to take home and keep, claiming that my preferred reading material was just collecting dust and deserved a home.

I think he kept ordering romance novels for my sake, given that most of our customers came in for non-fiction.

The size of the sob stuck in my chest feels like I just swallowed a boulder, and no longer trusting myself to stay put together, I lean against the wall of Tomes and slide to the ground. I brace my elbows against the stops of my knees and push the heels of my hands onto my eyes until I see white.

The man I loved like a grandfather is gone, and although I want to do nothing but grieve, another thought blasts through it.

I'm jobless.

It feels selfish to think about it, but it's reality. I'm the breadwinner of the family, Drew and Mateo's shenanigans too unreliable to keep us afloat. If I don't work, my family is screwed.

"Come on, Evie." I whisper to myself, dropping my hands from my eyes. "You're a hard worker. You can find something."

Naturally, I went ignored by everyone who passed by. I'm probably the only freak in the N109 Zone who would stop to check in on someone who looks distressed. Or so I think.

"Evie?"

Looking up, I catch sight of a regular customer of Tomes. He's looking down at me with his eyebrows furrowed, curly strawberry blond hair falling in front of his forehead.

"Hi, Landon." I greet him while pushing to my feet and dusting myself off. "Did you come to purchase more books for your boss? Sorry, but the shop's closed. Russell passed away."

Landon sucks in air through his teeth. "Shit. Another good man gone, huh?"

"A great man." I fold my arms over myself.

I'm not sure exactly how old Landon is, but he can't be too much older than me. He's only got a few inches on me, but his boisterous energy makes him feel bigger than he is. He drops by the store weekly to pick up special order books on his boss' behalf, more rather, his boss' wife. I don't pry into our customer's personal lives, but Landon is a bit of an over-sharer, so I know his boss is in the jewelry business and that his boss' wife craves knowledge on all things.

"How are you taking the news?" He asks, the concern in his pale blue eyes genuine.

I shrug one shoulder. "I'm not sure. I just found out. It feels real but doesn't at the same time, you know? It probably won't sink in fully until I go job hunting."

Landon nods. "I get that. Well, it'll suck not to see you every week. I'm a man of routine." He tilts his head as if thinking. "I'm sure a girl like you will find work easily, but there is a small gig that can hold you over until then."

That has my ears perking up. "What kind of gig?"

He lifts a hand and scratches the back of his neck, letting out a small sigh. "To tell you the truth, my boss' wife has been battling an illness lately. The doctor ordered her to stay in bed, so she can't attend an upcoming gemstone auction with the boss man. It'd be a hit to his social status to show up to a big event like that alone."

My heart sinks into my stomach. "So, you're asking me to...?"

"It'd be one night, and the boss pays well." Landon laughs a little. "To tell you another truth, the reason I came today was to ask if you'd be interested. Boss asked me to try and find him a plus one, and you're not violent, so I wanted to ask you first. You'd just be keeping him company at the auction, nothing more."

My teeth sink into the inside of my cheek. I'm not in a position to be turning down a paying job, and Landon's boss is doing more than well financially-

White hair, crimson eyes, and a stone cold expression flash in my mind. My heart leaps and starts hammering against my ribs.

My mouth suddenly feels dry, and I swallow just for the sake of moving my throat muscles. "I'm flattered that you thought of me, but I just got out something hectic. I don't think I'd be very comfortable taking this job."

Landon looks disappointed, but he nods anyway. "That's fair." Still, he reaches into his pocket and hands me a business card. "Take this anyway, just in case you change your mind. Or get desperate enough."

I almost turn him down again, but the words vanish from the tip of my tongue at ‘desperate.’ Even if it’s the last thing I want to do, refusing an opportunity to keep food in my brothers’ stomachs would be silly.

Forcing a small smile, I take the card and tuck it into the pocket of Simon’s old jacket. He grew out of it a few years ago, but luckily it fits me enough to use until I can afford to replace the one I lost. “Thank you.”

Landon grins. “Of course. All the best to you, Evie.”

He gives me a playful salute before turning around and walking down the street. The card weighs nothing yet feels like bricks in my pocket, a harsh reminder of the hole I’m falling into.

I just hope I can find something to grasp onto before I hit the bottom.

When we had to find a new place to live after Dad bailed and left his children with rent they couldn't afford, there weren't many conditions our new living space had to meet. As long as Drew, Mateo and I could cover it with our pathetic paychecks, it would do. It was pure luck that this shabby apartment building we chose happened to be relatively quiet.

That's not the case now. I could hear the raging voices the second I hit the fourth flight of stairs, could practically feel the walls shake with the noise by the time I reached the fifth. Naturally, this sets me on high alert, and I lighten my footsteps as to not make the floorboards squeak as I move down the hall to my unit.

The voices only get louder.

They're coming from my unit.

My foot freezes an inch above the floor, talons made of ice sink into my chest cavity and shred it, making way for my pounding heart to drum loudly in my ears. It only lasts a second before I'm sprinting the remainder of the short distance and throw open the front door. The knob crashes against the wall with a loud bang, startling the four men inside so badly they jump and whip towards me.

I scan the room. The kitchen looks undisturbed, with the exception of dishes in the sink one or more of my brothers neglected to take care of. The living room isn't trashed, but the poor coffee table has suffered a beating. It's been flipped over, one of the legs snapped at an angle that would be extremely painful if it were human. Standing on either side of the abused furniture is my brothers, older twins on one side and younger twins on the other.

"What the hell is going on?" I ask, eyes shifting from my older brothers to younger and back again.

The boys roughhouse on a regular occasion, but the looks on their faces don't look playful, nor does the way they're standing. Drew is almost chest to chest with Mateo as if using his body as a block, while Simon has his arms wrapped around Troy's waist as if trying to hold him back. The two more hot-headed of the pairs have resumed their glaring contest.

"Evie, you're home early." Drew says, pushing Mateo until he sits on the couch behind him.

"Yeah, I'll explain later." I glance back and forth between the lot of them again. "Someone fill me in, please."

Troy tilts his head and grins in a way that's on the edge of sadistic. "Tell her, guys. Tell her what you've been running around doing every night and spending the family's money on."

My adrenaline was just beginning to climb down, but it spikes right back up. "You know?"

"We just found out." Simon replies, letting his brother go. It seems Troy is no longer interested in physical fighting. "You two tell her right now, or we will."

It's Mateo's turn to smirk. "Ass kissers."

Troy makes to lunge, but Simon catches him again.

"Enough!" I hold a hand up towards Troy, and turn my attention to the older two. "Out with it."

Drew sighs and drops into the empty space next to his twin. He leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees while running a hand over the top of his head. "We've been working at a club. Mateo's a bouncer and I bartend."

I give his confession a minute to sink in, and after that minute, I'm more confused than anything else. Bouncing and bartending aren't jobs to be ashamed of - they can pull in quite the extra cash in the form of tips, at least for bartending. It doesn't explain why they take more money from the account instead of adding to it more often than they do, but it answers one big question.

They haven't gotten involved in anything gang related, and knowing this now takes a massive weight off my shoulders.

I nod at them. "Thank you for telling me, but why did you feel the need to hide it in the first place? It's not something I'd judge you two for, you know that."

I can feel Simon and Troy growing impatient behind me, but I ignore them for now. I almost consider sending them out of the room, not wanting them to ruin things now that our older brothers have finally started to crack, but I don't. This is a family matter, and they're not children anymore. I don't want them to feel as though I still see them as little kids.

Mateo leans back, crosses his arms over his chest, and crosses his leg so ankle is resting on his knee. "Because we've been paying the dancers for private sessions."

I give his confession a minute to sink in, and after that minute, I'm... "I'm sorry, what?"

Drew sighs and starts to stand. "Evie-"

"You're paying dancers for attention? With the money you make every night plus the funds that are supposed to take care of us?" With every second that goes by, disbelief bleeds into anger. "Are you fucking kidding me right now?"

"If you're going to tell the truth, tell the whole truth." Troy snaps. He shakes out of Simon's hold and moves to stand next to me. "You know how we found out? They brought them here."

I'd rather be punched in the chest so hard I'm left winded than let that be true. "Don't tell me you're paying them for...?"

Drew, who decided to sit back down, hangs his head. Mateo has his face turned to the side, but even then, I can see him fighting to pretend that he doesn't care. Even as kids, the corners of his mouth would twitch when he tried to keep a careless expression.

I feel like I can't breathe, and yet, I can't stop words from coming out and using the precious air I'm struggling to keep in my lungs. "Are you two addicted? Because that's the only thing that would explain your lack of self control. For months I've been busting my ass to keep bills paid for, pulled my hair our trying to budget food and other necessities, trusting that whatever the two of you were up to would pay off in the end, and this is what you've been doing?"

Mateo snaps his head towards me and glares. "Not all of us are perfect little angels, Evie. Books aren't stress relief for everyone."

"Watch it." Simon hisses, appearing on my other side. "She's the reason we haven't starved and still have a roof over our head."

Mateo closes his mouth and turns away again.

I'm not done, not through with laying into them. "You know we're struggling to stay afloat, and not only are you blowing your entire paychecks on dancers, plus digging into the family funds to cover it, but you're also sneaking them in here? You're bringing strangers into our home? In the N109 Zone?"

For a long time, they say nothing. When they do, it's Drew who breaks the silence. "We're sorry, Evie."

Inhaling sharply, I ran my hands over my face. when I finally drop them, I clap my hands together and put on a sunny smile. "You two can start apologizing by getting your act together, because Russell's dead, which means I'm out of a job. I'm pulling the two of you off the account. Whatever we have left has to last until I find a new one."

I turn and storm towards my closet bedroom. The boys resume their bickering, but the migraine settling in my temples doesn't leave me much room to place peacekeeper. As soon as I lock myself inside, I make good on my word and change the password to the family's bank account. I'll slip the new password to Simon and Troy later, but until Drew and Mateo can be trusted, I can't risk them draining the measly three-hundred dollars left in the account.

The calendar app on my phone catches my eye as I close out of the online banking, and my heart sinks. Bills are due in a few days, and that is going to destroy the little savings we have.

"Fuck!" I screech, tossing my phone onto the mattress.

Pulling my knees up, I bury my head between them. The position pulls on my neck and makes my migraine worse, so I lay on my back instead. I didn't turn the light on, not wanting to aggravate my eyes further, but even in the darkness, I can see the outline of my dragon suncatcher hanging above me.

The corners of my eyes burn with tears, and in the shadows I whisper to it. "I don't know what to do."

Of course, it doesn't answer. I close my eyes and take in another deep breath, shove my hands into the pockets of Simon's jacket as I soak up the warmth it provides. I have every intention of taking a nap, numbing out the storm brewing inside of me, but my fingers brush against something that has my eyes snapping open again.

Pulling the small card out, I sit up and, despite the way it'll make my eyes sting, reach up to turn on the light.

"Take this anyway, just in case you change your mind. Or get desperate enough."

I don't want to. I really, really don't want to. Being an arm accessory to a complete stranger sounds like a nightmare, a great way to die and leave my brothers to fend for themselves.

But if I don't do this, we'll slowly die anyway.

Shoving every single emotion into the deepest parts of me where I can't feel them, I dial the number listed on the card. A male voice answers after the second ring.

"Landon? Hi, it's Evie." I look up at the red glass dragon and silently ask it to lend me its strength. "I've changed my mind."

Masterlist

Chapter Four ->

Tag List:

@xxfaithlynxx @angelafinstone

[skipper19]

Imagine this...

It all led to this moment. You gave him your everything, and it still wasn't enough. He lied to you for months and kept his intentions from you for so long. You were never to trust him or anyone, again. First, it was your father. He sold you to the heroes for their horrid experiments. You were sure the people behind it were called the "hero committee," but that was an estimated guess, of course. When you were in the program, you were kept in the dark. You were isolated from the others, you had no one, and you were a nobody. Your number had been 62. You only received a sort of name when you were taken into the Liberation front. Or the LoV, as they used to be called.

That's where you met him: Hawks. There was something about him you felt drawn towards. Perhaps it was his golden eyes or his ruby red wings. Maybe it was his personality. He had a way of pinning you to your seat with a look, yet lulling you into a sense of comfort with his smile. You could tell there was more to him than what he was leading on. It didn't take long for you both to talk. Talking turned into something deeper. You didn't know what to call it. You spent so long under the thumb of the heroes that until you were able to escape, your skills in basic interactions were slim to none. Hawks taught you things. He didn't call you a number. He gave you pretty nicknames that made your stomach flip. His soft touches were so different from what you had been conditioned to.

Everyone could see it. The way you both were attached at the hip. Every mission was spent by one anothers side. You trusted him with your life. You had started to.. love him.

But then it all began to crumble and fall. You had been taught to watch behaviors and assess people like they were your prey. It was instilled into you, drilled almost as deep as the robotic body parts the heroes had forced on you. You watched people. Perhaps that's why you got along so great with Hawks; or Keigo, as he revealed during one of your more quiet cuddle sessions. That was the night he made love to you. He taught you what touch could feel like beyond hugs and kisses. He made you feel things that reminded you that you are human. The constant voice in the back of your head telling you, reminding you that you're not a monster. At least, not by choice.

It had been 4 months before you realized his behavior was..off. Maybe it was before that, and you just wanted to ignore it. You didn't want to believe something could be wrong. His behavior, his mood, and the twitch in his eyebrow when he saw other villains hurt heroes. You could see it. Clear as day. Clear as it can be for someone so close to him, like you. At least, you thought you were close. He had been inside of you and explored your emotions and desires. He reached into your soul and pulled on strings you didn't know were there. He helped you find yourself. And you figured out who he truly was a little too late.

The wind had always been your friend. It gave you fresh air and made you shiver. There was always something so heartwarming about the shiver that made you feel like a kid again. Movie scenes flashed in your head, movies Keigo had introduced to you. And pictures of autumn leaves and Thanksgiving pop into the images. Keigo mentioned he wanted to take you somewhere for the holiday. Somewhere private and peacful. Maybe travel to a place with beautiful waters and calm forests. He promised to take you. Though now, as you stood on this roof overlooking the city, images of such a blissful dream faded from your mind. The wind had always been your friend. That is what matters right now.

"Please don't do this. I swear to God I was going to tell you. " He didn't matter. His words were a lie. They had to be. There was no way he cared about you, claimed that he loved you, and lied to you for months.

"I was stupid to believe you. I should have listened to the voices in my head. They protected me before you came along.." The words were so soft, you almost didn't want to say them. A part of you wanted to forgive him. Forget the lies and the betrayal and run into his arms. You wanted to comfort him. The scars on his face were so fresh. His wings were still so torn and burnt. But the hurt you felt deep inside blinded you. You couldn't let this go. Not now. You couldn't let another man hurt you and get away with it.

His footsteps were hesitant and desperate. He looked at you with such guilt and regret. It was eating him inside. He could lose his wings. They used to make him who he was. But when he met you, it all changed. You were his everything. You were the reason he kept fighting against the villains. But he was the reason he kept being a spy hidden from you. If you knew he was still on the heroes side, you would have never trusted him in the first place. He didn't know much anymore. Who was right or wrong. But he knew he loved you.

"Baby, I swear to God I was going to tell you. I just didn't want the heroes to find out about us, and I couldn't risk my secret being told to the villains. I love you -" He whispered, his voice cut off as tears formed in his eyes. "I love you so damn much. You made me feel human again! I felt like I could be myself around you. That's something I've never felt before. With no one else." He begged. His voice was desperate and hoarse. And you wanted nothing more than to run into his arms. You wanted to believe him, but you were so hurt. If he loved you, why didn't he trust you with his secret?

"I've been lied to before. I know how this works. And now the Liberation front doesn't want me anymore. They think I was helping you. I've lost everything because of you." You said harshly, tears falling down your face. Keigo shook his head, swallowing his sobs. "No! No, I'm right here. I do love you, dove. Please, believe me. Step away from the edge and come with me. We can leave. We can just go. We'll be together, off in the cabin that you said you wanted. We can finish teaching you how to write cursive a-and I'll help you build that garden you wanted. We can grow as many tomatoes as you want! If you just..step down. I'm begging you." You couldn't stop the tears from falling from your cheeks. Tears scattered the city below, mixing with the light rain of the afternoon skies. You wondered if this is how it was supposed to be.

"I wanted that with you before you broke me. Before you lied and took advantage of my lack of emotions -" You said bitterly. "No! I never once took advantage of you. I am not your father, remember? You told me he abandoned you with the hero committee. I would never do that to you. I would never leave you like that, dove. You're my everything." He said sternly, stepping forward in determination. You could almost hear the truth in his voice. But the wind was so much louder tonight.

You turned to face him, your heel resting on nothing as you stood on deaths door. You could see past the wind. The truth is so evident in Keigos eyes as he pleaded with you. But if he lied to you once, couldn't he just do it again? "How can I believe you? After months of lying to me. To my face. How do I know I can trust you not to lie to me again?" Your voice was so soft, Keigo almost couldn't hear you. Almost. He just shook his head. "I.. I don't know. But I do know I would do it again if I had to. If it meant keeping you safe, I would lie again and again. Because I can not lose you. Not after I've found you." He was telling the truth. You could see it on his scarred face. The same cheek you loved to caress. Now marred in scars because of Dabi.

"Please just come to me. Let me take you away from all this." You wanted to step away from the edge. You wanted to accept his words and rush into his arms. But the wind has always been your friend. And it was a jealous thing, it was. It pulled and pulled until you were falling into its arms again. It was so loud, your eyes were tearing up. Keigos' face was the last you would ever see, but the wind would stay until the very end.

[shvdwscng]

kalore  had  kept  much  locked  away,  every  inane  detail  of  his  childhood,  of  his  younger  brother,  of  his  parents,  and  the  string  of  events  that  led  him  down  this  path,  serving  a  family  he  had  no  iota  of  desire  to  serve,  an  deep,  innate  hatred  that  threatened  to  consume  him  most  days,  but  perhaps  didn't  because  of  her.  that  each  time  he  was  angry,  he  would  think  of  her  and  in  a  moment  all  of  his  emotions  were  replaced  by  something  he  feared,  a  desire,  a  longing,  an  ache  that  was  unlike  another.  a  understanding  that  he'd  never  be  whole  again,  and  then,  slowly,  piece  by  piece  he  felt  parts  of  his  soul  and  heart  return  when  his  attention  fell  to  the  shadowsinger.  it  was  so  strange  to  even  entertain  the  thoughts  that  another  creature  could  exist  that  would  settle  within  his  being  the  way  she  has.  he  has  seen  it  all  around,  with  his  parents  who  complimented  each  other  so  well.  watching  the  way  his  own  mother  complimented  his  father  in  every  way,  and  to  him  then  it  had  been  what  a  perfect  love  look  liked.  they  were  never  openly  expressive  or  affectionate,  but  he  knew,  both  their  children  knew  without  a  doubt  their  parents  loved�� one  another  infinitely.  not  for  once,  did  the  daemati  believe  he  would  ever  have  any  of  it.  not  to  the  fault  of  others,  but  due  to  his  own  sharp  edges,  the  shattered  fragments  of  him  that  would  never  be  whole  again,  but  alas  he  was  wrong.  kalore  had  taken  after  his  parents  entirely,  unable  to  express  all  that  he  felt  for  siara  so  easily,  all  the  while  siara  learned  to  read  all  that  he  did  not  say.  he  supposed  it  was  why  she  never  feared  his  responses  nor  his  reactions,  slowly,  she  had  unraveled  him  and  with  it,  claimed  his  heart  just  as  he  had  with  hers.  it  was  no  surprise  that  the  commander  fell  for  her,  this  was  bound  to  happen,  he'd  known  the  moment  she  entered  his  mind  and  his  heart  and  never  left,  no  matter  how  much  effort  he  place  to  watch  her  as  he  did,  think  of  her  as  often,  that  even  in  the  midst  of  his  tasks,  she  was  always  lurking  in  his  mind.  how  he  remember  his  every  interaction  with  her,  the  way  she  teased  him,  that  in  the  moment  annoyed  him,  but  later  he  found  amusement  in.  it  was  quite  disturbing  how  he  recalled  every  detail  of  her  appearance,  of  what  she  wore,  what,  she  smelled  like  at  any  day.  "truly,  you  ought  to  cease  referring  to  me  as  such.  i  appreciate  the  sentiments,  but  surely  you  can  find  far  better,  creative  endearments  for  me."  his  onyx  gaze  gleamed.

now  for  then  ever  he  ached  for  his  abilities,  if  he  could  even  have  a  taste  of  them  now  only  to  slip  into  her  mind  and  allow  siara  to  see  herself  as  he  did.  all  that  he  still  had  difficultly  conveying  with  his  words  was  far  more  visible  in  his  mind.  "i  have  much  more  i  wish  to  offer  you,  when  my  our  abilities  return."  instead,  he  offers  a  promise  in  the  meantime  that  she  deserved  far  more  from  him,  and  he  intended  to  offer  her  the  moment  he  was  able  to.  with  this,  all  the  secrets  he'd  kept  to  himself  were  easier  to  show  than  it  was  to  say  aloud,  until  she  knew  every  inane  detail.  he  feared  it  still,  even  knowing  nothing  he  did  perhaps  would  frightened  her  off,  but  it  was  one  that  remained  until  he  could  open  his  mind  to  her.  her  words  of  wishing  to  do  the  ceremony  sends  a  thrill  right  through  his  veins,  and  her  certainty  that  she  knew  she  did  not  need  anything  to  confirm  what's  been  true  since  the  moment  they  met.  "the  moment  we  return  home,  this  is  what  will  be  done  before  all  else."  another  promise  he  offered,  and  he  prayed,  he'd  never  prayed  ever,  but  he  prays  now  that  fates  would  allow  them  the  chance  to  do  this.

the  words  were  there  at  the  tip  of  her  tongue,  but  he  waits,  claiming  her  lips  in  a  kiss  that  was  bother  tender  and  fierce,  a  tenderness  he  isn't  certain  he  was  capable  of  but  he  learns  siara  draws  much  from  him  he's  not  fathom  he's  capable  of.  he  kisses  her  for  a  long  while,  uncaring  as  to  who  bore  witness,  it  was  not  as  if  this  was  not  common  knowledge  but  simply  wishing  to  relish  in  this  moment  as  her  words  echo  in  his  mind.  her  love,  her  commander,  her  partner.  they  settle  into  him  and  he  swears  he'll  hear  the  echo  of  them  every  night,  and  every  moment  of  the  day.  his  arms  are  tight  around  her,  pulling  back  just  slightly  to  gaze  at  her  when  she  whispered  the  words.  "nor  i,  siara,  but  i  suppose  we're  simply  waiting  for  one  another  -  waiting  until  we  found  one  another."  there  was  a  sense  of  elation  he  felt,  of  being  her  first,  and  her  only  love,  just  as  she  was  of  his.  "i  am  honored  to  be  your  first  love,  and  your  only  love,  and  your  last  love.  as  you  are  mine."

END.

"  no  it  doesn't.  "  she  says  with  a  laugh.  though  she  also  understood  when  was  not  the  time  to  tease  him  and  chose  not  to.  even  when  siara  was  simply  out  to  annoy  the  commander,  to  get  a  rise  out  of  him,  she  did  so  carefully.  picked  her  moments  wisely.  siara  liked  to  be  a  thorn  in  his  side,  but  she  never  wished  to  cause  actual  damage.  she'd  learned  how  to  read  him  very  quickly,  and  it  seemed  that  had  been  her  opening  through  the  walls  he  placed  about  himself.  it  hadn't  even  been  hard,  which  was  perhaps  frightening  if  it  weren't  for  the  way  he  did  the  same  to  her.  siara's  upbringing  was  many  horrid  things,  but  it  was  also  the  reason  she  was  able  to  stare  into  his  gaze,  unwavering  and  unfearing.  he'd  never  scared  her,  his  reputation  had  only  served  to  interest  her  further  in  figuring  out  how  the  man  worked.  what  further  drew  her  in  was  his  way  of  possessing  so  much  power  within  their  court  but  not  screaming  about  it.  he  had  a  quiet,  commanding  way  of  whispering  his  control  and  from  the  moment  she  met  him  all  he  ever  did  was  catch  her  curiosity  and  snare  her  in  deeper.  each  gaze  cast  her  way  had  cut  through  her,  but  never  scared  her.  in  truth,  only  once  had  she  been  worried  around  him  –  and  that  had  been  when  she  learned  of  his  daemati  abilities.  she  hadn't  flinched,  she  only  hoped  he  wouldn't  poke  into  places  uninvited.  and  for  all  she  knew,  he  hadn't.  it  was  one  of  the  many  reasons  she  trusted  him,  despite  his  lack  of  understanding  how  she  could.  and  as  she  learned  him  more  her  confidence  grew,  in  her  own  abilities  as  well  as  her  pleasure  at  knowing  she  was  the  only  one  able  to  do  certain  things,  and  able  to  pull  certain  things  from  him.  the  game  became  her  addiction  –  he  became  her  addiction.  slowly  that  trust  she  had  in  him  was  something  she  felt  him  return,  and  eventually  it  became  shared  in  a  way  neither  trusted  any  other.  she  had  a  dangerous  power  over  kalore,  but  he  did  the  same  to  her.  when  everything  finally  crashed  between  them,  every  wall  and  every  ounce  of  stubbornness,  it  had  been  the  awakening  to  something  siara  never  thought  she'd  have.  he  belonged  to  her,  made  for  her  and  her  alone.  everything  they  had  been  doing  before  was  simple  foreplay,  leading  them  to  where  they  were  always  destined  to  end  up.  "  well,  you  were  always  my  favorite  toy.  "  she  teases,  but  her  words  mean  a  lot.  she'd  never  enjoyed  someone  as  much  as  he,  and  while  it  was  quite  backwards  in  most  courting  definitions,  the  way  she  poked  at  him  had  been  a  marker  of  her  interest  long  before  she  realized  it.

"  i  don't  expect  to  regret  anything  between  us  kalore.  but  i  shall  take  everything  you  offer  me  happily.  "  greedily  so.  it  was  incredibly  ironic,  how  easy  it  was  now  for  her  to  show  him  parts  of  herself  she  caged  away,  ignored  and  pretended  did  not  exist.  she'd  chipped  away  at  kalore's  armor,  but  he'd  done  the  same  for  her.  siara  was  a  different  creature  for  it,  but  only  for  him.  the  rest  of  prythian  still  saw  the  guarded,  cold  hearted  shadowsinger  of  the  nightmare  court.  she  knew  the  same  went  for  him,  opening  up  to  her  but  not  to  a  single  other.  these  moments  were  for  each  other  and  none  else.  when  kal  spins  her  away,  it  allows  siara  to  remember  where  they  are,  and  when  they  rejoin  the  words  he  offers  settle  inside  of  her.  the  idea  of  the  mating  ceremony  was  not  something  she  shared  lightly,  and  she  knew  kalore  understood  that.  siara  had  never  been  one  to  share  traditions  or  offer  rituals  to  anyone,  let  alone  someone  who  was  not  even  illyrian.  while  she  didn't  need  the  ceremony  to  know  he  belonged  to  her,  his  willingness  to  embrace  the  heritage  she  had  so  often  ignored  settles  into  her  soul  in  just  another  way  that  seals  her  fate  to  him.  hearing  him  say  as  much  nearly  leaves  her  breathless,  only  siara  isn't  a  pining  lady  of  the  court,  she's  a  warrior  who  knows  how  to  measure  he  reactions.  "  i  don't  need  anything  to  know  you  are  mine,  but  i  think  i  would  like  to  do  the  ceremony.  "  admits  she.  it  would  also  create  an  actual  bond  between  them.  for  illyrians  it  ranged,  from  knowing  where  one  another  was  or  even  feeling  their  emotions  if  they  were  strong  enough.  siara  wasn't  sure  what  the  ancient  magic  would  do  for  she  and  kalore,  especially  with  his  ability  and  her  half  blood  status.  she  wasn't  afraid,  though,  she  wanted  him  in  every  way  he  was  willing  to  give  himself.  siara  held  a  lot  of  importance  in  illyrian  rituals,  even  if  she  would  deny  it  to  anyone  else.  it  marked  the  side  of  her  blood  she  hated  due  to  her  father,  but  they  were  also  so  beautiful  she  couldn't  deny  it.  she  wasn't  often  sentimental  or  sappy,  but  for  this  she  found  she  was.  the  spymaster  ignored  or  avoided  talking  about  such  things  with  anyone  else,  but  with  kalore  she  found  the  words  tumbled  out  without  her  permission.  they  were  meant  for  him  to  hear.  for  so  long  the  pair  of  them  danced  around  the  unspoken  truth,  of  their  feelings  for  one  another  not  needing  to  be  spoken  aloud  to  be  felt.  and  siara  was  fine  with  that.  words  were  sometimes  difficult,  but  their  actions  and  gazes  had  been  more  than  clear.  love  terrified  her,  it  always  had,  but  it  seemed  she  had  no  choice  in  feeling  this  with  kalore.  nor  would  she  have  it  any  other  way.  but  the  time  to  say  those  avoided  words  had  barred  down  on  them,  and  she  relished  in  the  press  of  his  lips  when  she  finally  let  them  out. 

the  kiss  was  full  of  the  fierce  passion  they  shared,  but  also  the  tenderness  only  kalore  could  possess  that  nearly  left  her  trembling.  his  firm  grip  on  her  frame  is  all  that  keeps  siara  standing,  though  she'd  be  hard  pressed  to  admit  it.  the  spymaster  melts  into  her  commander,  hands  fisted  into  his  jacket  to  support  her  body  against  his  own.  this  kiss  was  more  too,  it  was  a  promise  and  an  affirmation  that  neither  could  run  from  the  four  letter  word  any  longer.  and  then  they  part,  and  the  words  he  utters  leave  her  in  a  whole  new  state  of  being.  siara  always  thought  she  was  unbreakable,  but  it  she  could  now  see  she'd  been  wrong.  his  words  shatter  her,  but  the  broken  pieces  fit  back  together  how  they  were  always  meant  to  be.  his  love  puts  her  back  together  the  right  way,  healing  from  all  the  broken  examples  of  love  she'd  been  offered  before.  "  i  didn't  expect  to  ever  hear  someone  say  that  to  me.  "  she  admits  softly.

[steve-s-slut]

👅

[fraoula-me-psyxologika]

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[emmodii-mode]

Just finished my first playthrough of BG3. Romanced Lae'zel, but ending up turning into an Illithid because the idea of making Orpheus or Karlach do it didn't sit well with me (or my character).

I told Lae'zel to leave with Orpheus in the end (I heard she wouldn't stay with a ghaik anyway, which she's valid for, but also, it doesn't feel right to ask her to stay when I know how much her people mean to her). And like-

Her face before she flies off---

She looks so heartbroken and sad.

[heretodefyfate]

gosh, seeing people happily discussing about their OCs make me want to show my OCs too but then i realized i still have not make any "official" art of them and their background details are still being worked on

[faaun]

. anyway after writing the tags 4 this post i told my research partner i will no longer follow his dreams lmao. still helping w it but i need to engage in research that i find satisfying