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tsukumomei · 6 months ago

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AFTER ASHES | Itoshi Sae

Alice in Borderland AU | PART 1

Tags; •fem + afab!reader, •forced proximity (friends to lovers-ish) •nsfw •softcore •sae doesn't know how to communicate •rare sweet sae at the end Summary: when you suddenly find yourself in a deserted Tokyo, where participating in deadly games is the only way to survive, your mind is consumed by one goal: to escape and return to the comforts of the real world. Survival demands wit, courage, and the willingness to face unimaginable challenges. Yet, amidst the chaos and despair, something unexpected happens. You meet Sae. What starts as a reluctant alliance blossoms into something deeper. CW: •wc; 17k •MDNI •aged-up •violence •gore •murder •death games •psychological distress •depictions of survival scenarios •betrayal and manipulation •themes of isolation and despair •graphic injuries •explicit sexual content •coercion and power dynamics PART 2

You were being chased.

The frantic pounding of footsteps behind you left no doubt, they weren’t even trying to hide their presence. Judging by the heavy thuds, four, maybe five people were tailing you through this decaying amusement park.

Each breath burned your lungs, the metallic taste of adrenaline bitter on your tongue. The broken key to your escape dug into your palm as you clutched it tightly, cursing your bad luck. Why did it have to be you holding this thing? Why not Chigiri? He could’ve easily outrun them; this was his element, not yours.

The pressure of the past few days crashed into you as you stumbled over cracked asphalt, the haunted screams of distant animatronics mingling with the mayhem in your mind.

How did it come to this? 72 hours ago, you were still walking the familiar, lively streets of Shibuya, laughing with your best friend Kaede like everything in the world was perfectly normal.

“Come on!” Kaede had teased the previous day, her eyes alight with excitement as she tugged at your arm, weaving through the crowds, her beautiful blonde hair catching the breeze like a golden veil. “We’re going to miss the movie if you keep walking this slow!”

If only. If only that best-friend date hadn’t been interrupted by that blinding flash at the crosswalk. If only the world hadn’t tilted sideways in that unexplainable moment.

Now, here you were; desperate, breathless, and running for your life. Nothing had been normal since that day.

You thought back to the moment you regained consciousness, laid flat on a nearby bench. Shibuya, once alive with its bright lights and crowded streets, had turned into an eerie ghost town. No cars. No chatter. Not even a stray breeze to rustle the leaves.

“Kaede?” you had called, your voice trembling as you blinked into the unsettling void.

“I’m here,” Kaede had replied, her fingers gripping your arm like a lifeline. Gone was her usual confidence, her eyes darting around the empty city like a cornered animal.

You clung to her then, just as you do to her memory now, forcing your legs to keep moving. Kaede, with her bright spirit, was your anchor in a world turned on its head. Two halves of a whole. You’d survived the initial shock together. You’d survived the first game together. You’d survive this, too.

Wouldn’t you?

The snapping of twigs behind you killed your thoughts and solidified that this is reality. You tightened your grip on the jagged piece of the key. It felt like a joke. So small and incomplete, yet capable of deciding your fate. If you wanted to live, you needed the rest of it.

Just as your legs threatened to give out, a familiar flash of red streaked toward you.

“Y/N!” Chigiri’s voice cut through the chaos, his figure appearing out of the shadows. He skidded to a stop beside you, holding out two more fragments of the key. “I’ve got them. Kaede’s right behind me.”

Before you could respond, Kaede stumbled into view, breathless but determined. She waved the final piece triumphantly. “We’re not dying here, not today!”

Relief washed over you like a wave, but there was no time to celebrate. The pursuers were still on your heels, their shouts growing louder.

“This way!” Chigiri called, taking the lead as Kaede grabbed your hand. The three of you sprinted through the winding paths of the amusement park, dodging rusted rides and shattered glass.

When you finally reached the exit, Bachira was already there, as usual, bouncing on the balls of his feet. “You guys sure took your time!” he called out, eyes scanning the horizon. “Hurry, they’re right behind you!” To think he still had the urge to joke around is absurd.

You quickly fumbled with the key pieces, hands shaking as you fit them together. It clicked into place just as the first pursuer burst into view.

“Go, go, go!” Bachira urged, holding the gate open as Chigiri pushed you and Kaede through.

The heavy metal gate clanged shut behind you. On the other side, the shouts of your pursuers were abruptly silenced, replaced by the mechanical voice declaring “Game over” and the sickening, wet sound of blood splattering against the wall.

For a moment, no one moved, the reality settling like a suffocating weight—to live is to take away someone else’s life.

The four of you crumpled to the ground, gasping for breath. Your chest heaved, your body coated in dirt and sweat. The metallic tang of fear lingered in the air as you exchanged fleeting glances, each face pale and hollow. But you were alive, though barely.

For a moment, no one spoke, the weight of your escape settling over you. Then Kaede broke the silence with a shaky laugh, attempting to mask her conflicted feelings. “That was way too close.”

“Yeah,” you agreed, clutching the now-complete key. It was over.

Bachira flopped onto his back with a grin that could only belong to someone completely unbothered by narrowly escaping death. “Man, that was fun! Let’s do it again sometime!”

“Fun?” Kaede shot him an incredulous glare, her voice still breathless. “We almost died back there!”

Before Bachira could retort, your phones vibrated simultaneously, a sharp buzz breaking through the tense atmosphere.

With trembling hands, you reached into your pocket, pulling out the device. The screen flickered to life, casting an eerie glow in the dim surroundings. On it was a single message, stark and bold:

GAME CLEAR7 of Clubs Complete

The realization hit you hard. You’d done it. Somehow, against all odds, you’d survived.

You nodded. “We wouldn’t have made it without each other.”

“Especially me,” Bachira chimed in, holding up his phone with a triumphant grin. “I totally nailed that waiting-by-the-exit thing.”

Kaede groaned, shaking her head. “Don’t push your luck, Bachira.”

Despite the tension, you couldn’t help but let out a small, weary laugh. For a brief moment, the brutality of this world seemed to lift, replaced by a fragile sense of victory.

But as you looked back at the eerie silhouette of the amusement park, the gruesome reality of your situation settled in once more. This wasn’t over. The games would keep coming, each more brutal than the last.

“Let’s get back,” Chigiri finally said, rising to his feet and offering you a hand. His grip was steady, and it gave you reassurance. “We need to get this to Isagi.”

He held up the 7 of Clubs card, its edges catching the faint glow of the moonlight.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

You first met Isagi Yoichi’s team when you stumbled out of your first game with Kaede, a horrid game that left only the two of you as survivors.

Isagi was the one who approached you first. His calm demeanor gave him an air of leadership. “You made it through your first game. A heart one at that, impressive,” he said, offering a hand.

Kaede, though reluctant, shook it firmly. “We didn’t have much of a choice.”

Bachira, back then, was perched on the edge of a badly beat up, ripped couch, grinning widely. “I like them already. They’ve got guts.”

“Guts won’t keep you alive here,” Barou said flatly from the chair he was sitting at, his piercing red orbs assessing you and Kaede. His kingly demeanor added an edge to the room, making you instinctively cautious of him.

As you and Kaede settled into the group, you quickly found your rhythm. You worked well as a team. Your background as a high diver gave you focus and stamina, while Kaede’s part-time experience as a stuntwoman gave her an edge in high-pressure situations. The others didn’t make a big deal out of it, but it was clear that your skills were definitely a significant advantage when it comes to survival.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

Back at your safe house, you sit with Kaede, reflecting on how drastically your lives have changed. You both knew you might have gone insane if you hadn’t found another person that day. Luck had led you to be saved by a group. Still, you’re acutely aware that this community is anything but permanent. Danger always lingers, yet the relief it offers is undeniable.

Then, without warning, a deafening explosion shakes the building. The walls rumble violently, plaster rains down in chunks, and smoke billows from cracks in the structure.

“Move!” Isagi shouts, his voice cutting through the confusion.

You barely manage to grab Kaede’s arm as the two of you bolt for the nearest exit.

Around you, the others scramble, coughing through the thick smoke and dodging falling debris. You and Kaede are among the first to break through to the outside, gasping for air in the cold night. Behind you, the safehouse collapses further, its frame buckling under another fiery explosion.

Shidou stumbles out, his eyes darting like an animal’s. “Well, that’s one way to clear out!”

“Where do we go?” Kaede demands, tugging you closer to her as the group gathers on the street.

“Anywhere but here!” Chigiri retorts, his reddish-pink hair catching the firelight as he scans the dark streets.

Before anyone can decide, the low growl of an engine tears through the air. A massive Jeep Gladiator skids to a halt in front of you, its steel frame glinting in the orange glow of the flames.

Its appearance makes it look as though it could withstand just about anything. A fortress on wheels.

The passenger-side window rolls down, revealing a man with sharp, mismatched eyes that glimmer even in the dim light. One eye is a distinct, almost hypnotic green, while the other is a deep, ocean blue. The contrast between them is unnerving, but there’s something about the way his gaze sweeps over the group that speaks of experience. His face is partially obscured by shadow, but his voice is steady and commanding.

“Get in.”

You and the others freeze, the tension thick as everyone exchanges wary glances. The man’s tone leaves little room for argument, but suspicion hangs in the air.

“Who the hell are you?” Reo snaps, stepping forward but keeping his distance.

“Does it matter?” the man retorts, his mismatched eyes narrowing. “Unless you’d rather stick around and wait for whoever bombed your hideout to come back.”

Bachira, standing slightly apart from the rest, tilts his head, his grin faint but noticeable. “I dunno about you guys, but this feels less explode-y than staying here.”

“Right?” Shidou adds, his wild demeanor returning as he strides toward the Jeep. “I love explosions but I’m not about to die all pretty like this.” Without waiting for anyone’s approval, he climbs in the back of the truck.

“Shidou!” Kaede snaps, her vexation boiling over.

“What?” he says with a shrug. “They’ve got wheels, and I don’t wanna walk.”

Bachira follows him without hesitation, jumping into the back of the truck as well. “Guess I’m going too. This thing kinda looks fun.”

You glance at Kaede, who glares at the vehicle as though willing it to disappear. “Kaede…” you murmur, gripping her arm. “We don’t have a choice.”

Yukimiya adjusts his glasses, his usual composure faltering just slightly. “They’re right. Out here, we’re vulnerable.”

Chigiri faces Kaede and nods reluctantly. “I can’t outrun another explosion. I’m in.”

Kaede curses under her breath, dragging you along as she heads for the Jeep. “If this is a trap, I’m throwing you out first,” she mutters.

The man with mismatched eyes watches silently as one by one, you all pile into the Jeep. You end up wedged between Kaede and Chigiri, the interior cramped but enough to offer a strange sense of protection.

As soon as Kaede slams the door shut, the driver with salmon locks floors the accelerator, and the vehicle lurches forward, speeding away. Inside, the air is thick with tension.

The man in the passenger seat finally speaks, his voice steady. “Whoever targeted you knows what they’re doing. If you want to stay alive, stick with us.”

“That’s easy for you to say,” Reo mutters, his tone sharp. “Why should we trust you?”

The man glances back, “You don’t have to trust me. But I’ll remind you..” his mismatched eyes gleaming in the dim light. “Trust isn’t what keeps people alive here. It’s survival instinct that does.”

His words hang in the air as the truck roars down the deserted streets, leaving the destruction behind. You grip the edge of your seat, your heart pounding as you stare out the window, wondering if you’ve just escaped one danger only to run headfirst into another.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

It turns out they were taking you to another safe house. What was once a luxurious resort in the real world. Known as The Beach. The pristine pools glimmer and the sleek modern design of the resort still carries an air of opulence. People mill about in swimsuits and casual clothing, but the carefree appearance felt like a facade.

The atmosphere is heavy with tension, the invisible threads of hidden agendas simmer beneath the surface, you had just gotten there, but that much is obvious.

Your getaway driver from earlier, who introduces himself as Sendou, walks alongside you and Kaede, guiding you toward the heart of the Beach. It’s unbelievable how he’s unable to hide the fact that he has a thing for Kaede.

He’s grinning, his easy going demeanor the exact opposite of the nerves shivering in your chest and sweaty hands. “Welcome to the Beach,” he says, gesturing to the bustling crowd. “It’s not much, but it’s home, at least for me.”

At the center of it all stands Ego Jinpachi, the enigmatic leader of the Beach. Dressed in a crisp white shirt and sunglasses, he exudes control and intellect. His assertive tone cuts through the murmurs as he addresses the crowd from a raised platform.

“I created the Beach to bring order to the chaos of the Borderland,” Ego declares, his voice rising with conviction. “Here, we don’t rely on blind luck or brute force. We rely on strategy, intelligence, and teamwork. But none of that matters if you don’t recognize your own worth. You must believe in your ability to rise above the games. Because if you don’t, you’re already dead.”

If you’re being completely honest, you have no idea what this man is going on about—Ego this, Ego that. Sure, you get that he’s trying to give a pep talk to lift the spirits of a crowd that’s clearly beaten down, but wow, he does get carried away.

Beside him, Anri Teieri speaks next, her calm tone providing balance to Ego’s uncompromising tone. “The Beach’s structure is designed to give everyone a chance to survive,” she explains. “But cooperation and loyalty are non-negotiable.”

She pauses, letting the weight of her words settle before continuing. “There’s one more rule,” she says, her voice steady but firm. “All participants must adhere to the dress code. That means beach attire—swimsuits, casual clothing, leaves little to the imagination.”

The murmurs in the crowd grow louder, confusion and unease rippling through the participants. Anri doesn’t flinch, her gaze unwavering, determined. “The reason is simple,” she explains. “It ensures transparency and trust. No one can hide guns, knives, or any other weapons in beach clothes. This rule is about survival. The fewer opportunities for treachery, the safer we all are.”

Sendou gestures toward the raised platform where the Beach’s most prominent figures stand. “Let me give you a quick rundown,” he says, leaning in. “These are the big shots, the ones who keep this place running. Knowing who’s who can mean the difference between survival and, well, death.”

He nods toward the man who saved you all earlier, the one with the mismatched eyes. He was leaning casually against the railing. “That’s Oliver Aiku. Looks chill, doesn’t he? Don’t let it fool you, he’s got a brain that works faster than most, and he’s the guy you want on your side in a tight spot. If you’re lucky, he might even flash you that charming grin of his.” Kaede isn’t impressed.

Next, Sendou gestures toward the man with bleach-blonde hair, ice-blue eyes, and a self-assured smirk. “That one? That’s Michael Kaiser. The ‘I’m better than you’ aura? Yeah, that’s not just for show. He’s got a sharp tongue to match his sharp mind, and he doesn’t care who knows it. You’ll know you’ve done something right if he even acknowledges you exist.”

Sendou’s hand shifts to the figure standing close to Kaiser. “And that’s Alexis Ness, the guy with purple hair and a quiet vibe. Don’t underestimate him, he’s really loyal to everything that Kaiser does. When you deal with Kaiser, you’re dealing with Ness too.”

He then points to a man with tan skin and a buzz cut. “That’s Julian Loki, the ‘God Sprinter.’ When it comes to spade games, he’s the best there is. Fast on his feet and always one step ahead.”

Finally, his gaze lands on a towering figure with distinctive gold teeth (actual gold), exuding a laid-back demeanor. “And that’s Don Lorenzo. Big, quiet, and scary as hell when he wants to be. He’s the enforcer here, the guy who makes sure no one steps out of line. If you’re smart, you won’t give him a reason to look your way.”

Sendou pauses, his grin faltering slightly as his tone grows colder. “And then, there’s him.” He gestures to a figure seated at the edge of the group, his posture relaxed, but his presence commanding. His reddish-brown hair catches the light, his sharp gaze fixed like he owns the place.

“See that guy with the thick under lashes? Sae Itoshi. Quiet, deadly smart, and not someone you want to mess with. His eyes? They’re already sizing you up, figuring out what you’re worth before you even open your mouth.”

Sendou’s expression darkens, a trace of bitterness slipping through. “Sae doesn’t care about anyone but himself. He’s the type who’d throw you to the wolves if it benefitted him. Arrogant prick thinks he’s better than the rest of us, and honestly? He probably is, but that doesn’t make it any less annoying.”

He shakes his head, as if trying to shrug off his own words. “Trust me, if you can avoid dealing with him, do it. Life’s easier that way.”

Sendou steps back, folding his arms as he surveys the group. “That’s the crew keeping the Beach alive. Stick to the rules, show your worth, and you might just make it out of this place in one piece. But cross any of them?” He whistles low, shaking his head. “Well, you won’t be around long enough to regret it.”

You take a mental note on each executive, their demeanor, and the subtle dynamics among them. However, as Ego’s commanding voice thundered across the gathering, your focus began to waver. Not out of disinterest, but because your gaze had been drawn to someone among the Beach’s elite.

Seated near the edge of the platform, he was striking, like his face had been carved with meticulous precision. Itoshi Sae had an air of unshakable confidence.

Despite the chaos of the Beach, he remained unbothered, like none of it mattered enough to warrant his full attention.

His mere presence seemed to create a gravitational pull of a sort, and before you realized it, you were caught staring. How does someone carry themselves like that? you thought, barely processing Kaede nudging you to pay attention to Ego’s speech. Sae’s gaze flicked across the crowd like a predator surveying prey, but there was no malice in his eyes. Just cold detachment.

You knew better than to let anyone at the Beach intimidate you, but he wasn’t intimidating. No, he was something else; aloof, perhaps? The kind of person who made you want to know more, even if you sensed that getting too close might burn you.

“Y/N.”

Kaede’s sharp whisper pulled you out of your thoughts. You blinked and realized Ego was looking directly at you now, waiting for an answer to a question you hadn’t even listened to. Heat rushed to your face as you forced your attention back to the leader’s speech, inwardly cursing yourself for getting so distracted.

Still, as Kaede elbowed you again, mouthing, focus, you couldn’t help but let your gaze flicker towards the redhead one more time. He was watching Ego now, his expression unchanged, and utterly captivating.

As the crowd disperses, Ego’s sharp eyes land on you and Kaede. He gestures for the two of you to approach, and now you wonder where the boys had gone? Heart pounding, you step forward, Kaede close beside you.

“New arrivals,” Ego says, his tone neutral but probing. “What do you bring to the Beach?”

Kaede speaks first, steady despite the weight of his attention. “We’ve survived five games so far. We’re quick thinkers and adaptable.” A very basic textbook answer, but you figured it was better than just keeping your mouth shut.

Ego’s lips curl into a faint smirk. “Adaptability is a good start,” he says. “But remember, knowing your worth isn’t just about survival. It’s about domination. If you don’t seize control of your narrative, someone else will.”

You exchange a glance with Kaede, both of you silently resolving to prove your place here. As the Beach’s dynamics unfold, one thing is for sure; Ego’s philosophy of self-worth and survival will test every fiber of your being.

The blonde man, who you understood to be Kaiser, strides forward before anyone can speak, his icy blue eyes locking onto you with an intensity that sends a jolt through your chest. His lips curled into a playful grin but all you could notice was the distinct blue rose tattoo that adorned his neck.

“Well, well,” he drawls, his voice smooth and teasing. “I didn’t expect the Beach to get so much brighter today. Tell me, are you here to play the games, or just to distract the rest of us?”

Kaede stiffens beside you, protective instincts flaring, but you keep your composure. “I’m here to survive, just like everyone else,” you reply firmly, refusing to let him get under your skin.

Kaiser chuckles, clearly enjoying the exchange. “I like that fire! Don’t lose it, it’s rare around here.” He leans in slightly, his voice dropping just enough for only you to hear. “But if you ever need an ally, I can make things… interesting for you.”

Ness sighs softly, his gaze sharp as it flickers between you and Kaiser. “Kaiser,” he murmurs, his tone holding a note of warning.

Kaiser smirks but steps back, his eyes lingering on you for a moment longer. “Think about it,” he says before turning away.

Kaede leans in, whispering sharply, “What was that about?”

“I have no idea,” you mutter, catching a glimpse of the executive with reddish hair making his exit.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

The nearby river feels like an entirely different world, away from the city chaos. The stars sparkle brightly in the cloudless sky, untouched by the glare of city lights.

You stand at the edge, mindlessly skipping stones, each bounce rippling across the water's surface.

Despite the hope that the presence of companions can provide, moments like these remind you of the need for solitude.

In the real world, this place would be off-limits—a restricted area—but that never stopped you from sneaking in at night. Here, the only sounds were the soft splashes of stones meeting shallow water, a perfect place to clear your thoughts.

You were distraught. Grief clings to you like a second skin. The pain of witnessing death after death, the desperation etched on the faces of those who gave up, and the stifling feeling of uncertainty. You were a med student just fresh out of university, with dreams and plans that now felt like whispers from some past life. This was your life now.

The questions flood your mind, relentless and unanswered. Where are you? Did some God pluck "chosen" people and leave the rest behind? Had the rest of the world simply ceased to exist, or was this some distant, desolate future where humanity had burned itself out? Did you travel through time? There was no logical reasoning for any of this. All these theories haunted you until it was cut off by a voice you had never expected to hear so close to you.

“Couldn’t sleep?” he called out to you, carrying a tinge of curiosity.

Startled, you turned to see Itoshi Sae himself standing a few feet away, hands in his pockets.

His calm presence was almost jarring against the backdrop of your inner turmoil. After remembering Sendou’s description of this man, you opted to be casual, respectful but not too friendly. “Something like that,” you reply, turning back to throw the pebble in your hand. “It’s hard to relax in a place like this.”

Sae steps closer, his movements measured, until he’s standing beside you. His gaze follows yours, scanning the city lights that flicker like dying embers.

“You get used to it,” he says, his tone devoid of comfort but not entirely unkind.

There’s a sharpness to him, a precision that feels as if it could cut through the hardest of stones. But beneath that, you catch glimpses of something else, something you couldn’t quite explain.

If you had just nodded at him, you knew there'd be a 99% chance he wouldn't ask a follow up question, but against your better judgement, you keep the conversation flowing. “Do you ever think about what’s next?” you ask softly, breaking the silence.

Sae doesn’t answer immediately. “No point in dwelling on it. What matters is surviving the next game.”

His pragmatism doesn’t surprise you, but it frustrates you nonetheless. “And after that? Do you even want to go back to the real world?”

This time, Sae turns his head to look at you. “Does it matter?” he counters. “The real world wasn’t much better than this one.”

You frown, his words striking a chord. “That’s not true for everyone. Some of us have people waiting for us out there. Lives we want to return to.”

Sae’s gaze lingers on you for a moment longer before he looks away, his jaw tightening. “That’s a dangerous mindset to have here. Hope gets people killed.”

His words ignite a spark of defiance in you. “Hope is what’s keeping me alive.”

For the first time, Sae’s lips twitch, almost forming a smirk. It’s not mocking, though, if anything, it feels as if… he’s impressed.

“You’re stubborn,” he remarks, his tone neutral but carrying a trace of amusement.

“And you’re cynical,” you shoot back, a small smile tugging at the corners of your mouth.

“Word of advice, Miss?” Sae asks, his voice casual but laced with an unspoken question.

You pause for a moment, then give a slight nod, understanding the subtle request. “Oh, it’s Y/n. Y/n L/n.”

“Miss Y/n,” he repeats, testing the sound of your name, and there was no reason for it to sound that nice rolling off his lips.. "Don’t let your guard down," he says, his tone steady, “even out here” more of a warning than just a statement.

You meet his gaze, nodding in acknowledgment, but you don’t say anything. It’s enough that you understand. And just like that, he turns and walks away, leaving you alone on the riverside. The faint echo of his footsteps fades, but his words linger, intertwining with the stillness of the night.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

The air felt heavy as you stepped out of your room. You had to wear a swimsuit as per the beach’s rules so now you were donning a dark blue two-piece. As a former high diving athlete, you were used to wearing little to no clothing but it still felt uncomfortable in a place that attempted to claim your life every time, so you decided to drape yourself with a thin, white cover-up.

The lingering buzz of last night's encounter with Itoshi Sae stayed in your thoughts. Shaking the distraction from your mind, you focused on what lay ahead.

Ego’s summons had come at sunrise, summoning all of you to the main hall. He stood at the center of the room, his hands clasped behind his back, with Anri by his side. His voice rang out, sharp and calculated. “Today, we move forward with strategic assignments. Each of you will participate in a game tailored to your potential. Success strengthens the Beach, and failure...”

He paused, his glasses catching the light ominously. “...is not an option.”

Kaede, standing beside you, shifted uneasily. “They’re really splitting us up,” she murmured under her breath.

You didn’t reply, your stomach twisting as Ego continued.

The room buzzed with soft murmurs as people digested the assignments. Some whispered reassurances to their teammates, and others exchanged uneasy glances.

Itoshi Sae, as usual, stood apart from the group, his detached expression giving him an almost otherworldly air. He gave the list a brief, disinterested glance before turning to leave, exuding an air of quiet authority that seemed to draw attention effortlessly.

Kaede leaned closer. “I’ve got Aiku, and you’ve got…” She trailed off, following your gaze to where Sae had been standing. “...That guy.”

You tore your eyes away from him, giving her a small shrug. “Yeah. Lucky me.”

Kaede tilted her head. “Just stay on your toes. He seems… intense. Hot, but intimidating.”

“Don’t worry about me,” you said, trying to muster confidence. “Just focus on your own game.”

She gave you a lopsided smile, though the concern in her eyes lingered. “Deal. But you owe me a debrief after.”

“And you?” you countered, the thought of her under Aiku’s command making you uneasy.

Kaede smirked, the shadow of her usual bravado returning. “Aiku’s charming, but I’ll be fine.”

As the crowd began to break apart, you both exchanged a quick nod, a silent promise to make it through the day.

You found Sae waiting near the lobby, his tall, lean frame leaning casually against a pillar. Dressed in a white, button down shirt, the sharp angles of his features were only emphasized by the dim light. His teal eyes locked onto you as you approached, and for a moment, you forgot how to breathe.

“You’re here,” he said simply, pushing off the pillar with a fluid motion. “Good. Let’s get this over with.”

His tone was as detached as ever, but the way his gaze lingered on you betrayed a flicker of acknowledgment.

“Do you even know what we’re walking into?” you asked, trying to mask your nerves.

A ghost of a smirk tugged at the corner of his lips. “You’ll either keep up or you won’t.”

Annoyance flickered within you, but you swallowed it down. “I’ll hold my own.”

He regarded you for a moment, his expression neutral. “We’ll see.”

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

The meeting point for the game was deep in the woods, where a cliff loomed over a crystal-clear lake. The stillness of the forest made the setting almost serene, but the stark drop of the cliff and the ominous instructions on the digital board at its base shattered any illusions of peace.

Sae stood at the edge of the cliff, his features lit by the soft light filtering through the trees. His piercing gaze flicked from the board to the lake below, then back to the group. He hadn't spoken much since you arrived, but his quiet, commanding presence spoke volumes.

The other participants—Renji, Ayaka, Kaito, and Yumi—gathered near the base of the cliff, their faces a mix of unease and dread. Renji, tall and broad-shouldered, paced anxiously, while Ayaka clung to her jacket, her eyes nervously darting toward the drop. Kaito, who had seemed confident at first, now wore a deep frown, while Yumi, silent and trembling, struggled to mask her fear.

The holographic screen flickered and steadied, displaying the game rules:

5 of Diamonds: The Plunge

Setup: A button is located at the bottom of the lake, 20 meters deep. Pressing this button will deactivate the laser blocking access to the pathway on the shore, which must be solved to escape. A single participant must dive from the cliff into the lake and press the button.

Conditions: Only one participant can activate the underwater button. Time limit: 20 minutes. If the button is not pressed, or the number panel is not solved within the time limit, all participants will be eliminated.

The mechanical voice echoed through the clearing: “Select the participant to perform the dive.”

The tension in the air was palpable. Renji stepped back, shaking his head. "No way. That’s too much. I’m not risking my life like that."

Ayaka winced. "I can't swim well enough for this… I'd only slow everyone down."

Kaito crossed his arms, trying to mask his nervousness with bravado. "Look, I'm a decent swimmer, but that’s a long way down. If I panic, we’re done for."

You were genuinely appalled by this game; there was no reason for it to be classified as a diamond when it so clearly demanded physical dexterity—high diving, the skill you excelled in particularly. In this world, you’d learned to be cautious about revealing your strengths too soon, because your allies could easily become your enemy overnight—a lesson you learned the hard way when Kuon betrayed your former team.

The others looked desperate, their eyes darting around, but no one dared to step forward. The weight of their indecision pressed heavily on your chest, tightening the air around you. At the edge of the group, Sae stood still, watching, calculating. You could tell he’d already set a mental timer, ready to step in if no one volunteered.

But you weren’t naïve. This wasn’t just a test of courage; this was a test to all of you. This setup was all a part of Ego’s plan. This was your chance to prove your worth to the beach’s executive.

Before the silence could stretch any further, you stepped forward. "I’ll do it."

All eyes turned to you. Renji looked surprised, Kaito skeptical, Ayaka relieved, and Yumi scared.

Sae's gaze settled on you. "You?"

"I’m a high diver, I know the form." you said firmly, meeting his piercing eyes. "I can handle this."

Sae stood, scrutinizing you. "You understand the consequences if you fail?"

You nodded, your eyes unwavering. "I understand."

"Then don’t." His words were simple, yet carried the weight of command.

The words hit harder than expected, but you didn’t flinch. Taking a deep breath, you moved to the edge of the cliff. There was no need to strip down; the bikini you wore was already practical for the dive. The murmurs from the group faded into a dull hum, the pounding of your heart the only sound in your ears.

For a moment, you froze, staring down at the lake. The faint glimmer of the metallic button at the bottom felt like a distant star, unreachable.

The stakes were impossibly higher than anything you’d ever faced before. Fear clawed at the edges of your resolve, but you clenched your fists, trying to force the doubt away. You can do this. You’ve trained for this. This is just like the nationals, only colder, higher, and with no room for error. You’ve got this.

The wind whipped around you, tugging at your clothes as if trying to pull you back, but you planted your feet firmly. The world around you seemed to shrink until there was only the abyss in front of you and the target at the bottom of the lake.

With a final, steadying breath, you silenced every doubt and counted to three. Then, without hesitation, you launched yourself forward, leaving the solid ground behind cutting through the air in a smooth arc.

Plunging into the void below with precise, practiced grace, the splash barely audible over the sound of the group’s frantic breathing.

The lake was darker than it had seemed from above, the sunlight barely piercing the surface. You kicked downward, your lungs burning as you searched for the button. Finally, your hand brushed against the cold metal. You worked quickly, your fingers trembling as you pressed it.

From the cliff, the others rushed down the shore toward the number panel. Renji’s and Ayaka’s cheers barely registered as you swam toward the shore, your arms trembling with exhaustion.

Sae stood there, his sharp eyes watching as you pulled yourself out of the water. His expression was as composed as ever, but there was a faint glimmer of approval in his gaze.

Renji, Ayaka, Kaito, and Yumi gathered around you, their relief palpable. "You were incredible," Ayaka said, her voice shaking.

The tension from earlier had faded, replaced with a moment of shared relief, though the game was far from over.

The number panel needed a 6 digit number as the code, only flashing the following symbols as a clue: ◆-⏲-↕

Sae’s gaze flicked over the symbols. This was a level 5 diamond game, after all, and he knew the answer immediately. But before he could speak, Yumi suddenly slipped, losing her footing on the rocky shore. Her scream echoed in the air as she fell into the lake with a splash.

Without a second thought, you dove back into the water, quickly focused on reaching Yumi. The cold water was a shock again, but you pushed through it. Yumi was struggling beneath the surface, thrashing as she tried to stay afloat. You reached her, grabbing her tightly and pulling her toward the shore.

But as you made your way back, a sharp, unexpected pain shot through your foot. You tried to shift, but the rocks beneath you were unstable, and your foot became wedged between two heavy stones. The pain was intense, and it felt like the world was closing in.

With every effort to free yourself, the water began to overwhelm you. You gasped for air, but your head felt heavy. Your body was giving out. The heaviness of the lake, the pressure in your chest, and the darkness creeping at the edges of your vision were too much.

Then, everything went black.

The group stood on the rocky shore, the tension thick as Yumi sputtered and coughed, water pouring from her lungs. She had barely been pulled from the lake, her body trembling from the cold and the near-drowning. Renji and Ayaka crouched beside her, trying to help her sit up, while Kaito paced nervously, his eyes darting toward the dark, rippling water.

"Are you okay?" Ayaka asked, her voice tinged with panic.

Yumi waved her off weakly, water streaming from her mouth as she struggled to catch her breath. "I..." she started, only to be overtaken by another fit of coughing.

Sae stood nearby, his expression cold but his sharp eyes locked on Yumi, watching her closely. "Spit it out," he ordered, his tone cutting like a blade.

Yumi coughed again, clutching her chest as she finally managed to speak. "Y/n…" she gasped, her words broken. "She… she’s stuck!"

The group froze.

"What do you mean, stuck?" Kaito demanded, his voice rising in alarm.

Yumi shook her head, struggling to get the words out. "The rocks... under the water," she stammered, her voice hoarse. "They're falling apart… trapping her… she can’t get out!"

Ayaka let out a horrified gasp, covering her mouth with trembling hands. "Oh my god. She went back for you," she whispered.

Renji stood abruptly, panic flashing across his face. "What do we do? We can’t just—"

Sae cut him off, his voice sharp and commanding. "Enough." His patience had worn thin. Not only were the others incompetent; they were actively ruining their chances of survival. And now, their uselessness was putting the only other capable member of the group at risk.

He barely restrained the insult that threatened to escape his lips, his jaw tightening with the effort of doing so.

But his tone left no room for debate, “The code is 056020. Go.” There was no hesitation, he didn’t even wait for their acknowledgement, already turning towards the lake.

The group exchanged uneasy glances, their fear mounting as Sae began peeling off his shirt, his expression colder and more resolute than ever. The intensity in his eyes silenced any protests before they could form.

"You stay here," he commanded, fixing them with a glare that made it clear he wouldn’t tolerate dissent. "She doesn’t have time for your panic."

Renji, Ayaka, and Kaito scrambled toward the number panel, their hands trembling as they keyed in the code. The pressure of the timer and Sae’s scornful words hung heavy over them.

Without another word, he dove into the lake. The cold didn’t faze him. The lake seemed to swirl and writhe around him as he dove deeper, and in moments, his hand gripped your unconscious form. He pushed the rocks away from you, caring not to graze your bleeding leg any further as he tugged you closer.

He lifted you from the depths, your limp body weightless in his arms, as though you were nothing more than a plush doll. His voice was soft as he whispered, "You did well." The words, barely more than a breath, carried an unspoken admiration.

As he carried you to shore, the others, trembling and terrified, finally entered the code.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

When you finally regained full consciousness, the scent of disinfectants filled the air, waking your racing thoughts. The chaos of the game was gone. There was only silence.

You blinked, your vision foggy as you tried to process everything. As it cleared, you found Sae sitting beside you, his eyes focused on you with an intensity you weren't used to. There was an unfamiliar flicker in his gaze—concern, maybe, though it was quickly masked by his usual coldness.

You tried to sit up, but your body felt heavy, and a sharp pain shot through your leg. Looking down, you noticed your lower leg tightly bandaged. The weight of the game, the stress—it all clung to you like a second skin.

You were back at the beach, in your shared quarters with Kaede.

Sae was sitting beside you, his gaze focused on you. He handed you a glass of water, his cold fingers brushing against yours briefly. You drank deeply, the cool liquid soothing your parched throat but doing little to ease the lingering ache in your body.

“What happened?” you asked, your voice hoarse and unsteady. “What time is it?”

Sae didn’t respond right away. His eyes flickered to the side for a moment, as though weighing his words carefully. When he finally spoke, his tone was as neutral as ever, stripped of any emotion,

“You were unconscious when I found you. You did your part,” he said bluntly.

Your brow furrowed at his cryptic response. “And… my leg?” you pressed, glancing down at the bandage.

“I cleaned your wounds,” Sae replied flatly, his expression neutral. “It wasn’t deep, but you bled a lot. Someone had to make sure you didn’t get an infection.”

For a moment, you stared at him, caught off guard by his admission. From what you’ve heard from the others, he wasn’t one to say things like that, let alone do something so… considerate. “Thank you,” you murmured, the words feeling heavy on your tongue.

Sae’s lips twitched, but whether it was the hint of a smile or a grimace, you couldn’t tell. “Don’t make a habit of needing help,” he said coldly, standing abruptly. “You’re lucky this time.”

With a final glance in your direction, he left without another word.

Just then, Kaede entered the room. The worry was clear on her face, and before you could react, she jumped onto your bed, pulling you into a tight hug.

“Hey, Kae,” you groaned, wincing at the pressure on your aching body. “I missed you too, but I’ll die of suffocation if you don’t let go soon.”

Kaede pulled back slightly, her face filled with concern. “I was so worried about you, Y/n. How could you be so reckless?! Putting others before yourself like that.”

“Now, now, I couldn’t just ignore someone who needed help,” you replied with a tired smile. “But hey, how was your game?”

Kaede’s expression shifted slightly, a heaviness settling in her eyes. She quickly masked it, but you caught the subtle change. Any other person might have missed it, but you and Kaede shared a bond that no one else had. You knew her well enough to see when something was off, even if she wasn’t saying it aloud. You weren’t gonna push the subject since it clearly bothered her.

“It was fine,” she said, brushing it off with a wave of her hand. “Nothing new.” She was quick to change the subject, though, her teasing tone returning as she raised an eyebrow. “But word is running around that you made the ‘oh-so-self-centered’ Itoshi Sae save you.”

You blinked, taken aback. “What?”

Kaede chuckled, clearly amused by the rumors. “Oh, yeah. Apparently, you had to get saved by him. Way to go, Ms. Irresistible, looks like you still have it in you.”

You sighed, sinking back into your pillows as you fought off the lingering exhaustion. “It’s not like that,” you muttered, but she wasn’t convinced and continued badgering you for answers about the game.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

The following morning, you walked into the lobby, only to notice your name wasn’t on the assigned list and neither was Sae’s.

Instead, Ego had written you a personal note informing you that you’d been given a month off due to your injuries. Since you’d just completed multiple games, you had more than a month left on your visa. The news was a relief.

You headed toward the dining area, the scent of freshly prepared food filling your nose. There, at the end of a long table, Sae was seated, quietly eating his breakfast.

“Good morning,” you said, your voice low but steady.

Sae glanced up, nodding in acknowledgment but saying nothing. You stood there for a moment, feeling the unfamiliar quiet around you before you added, “Mind if I join you?”

With a minimal gesture, he motioned to the empty seat across from him, his eyes still fixed on the medium-rare steak in front of him. You slid into the seat, the sound of the chair scraping lightly against the floor filling the space between you.

The silence was awkward, different from the usual noise of Kaede and Bachira's constant chatter. It was strange, uncomfortable even.

You picked at your food, the eggs on your plate still warm but not particularly appetizing. The room hummed with soft voices from other tables, but the two of you remained quiet.

Finally, Sae broke the silence, his voice low and sharp. His words caught you off guard. “Why did you do it?” he asked, his gaze never leaving yours. You weren’t expecting such a direct question this early in the day. “Why put yourself in danger yesterday? It wasn’t your responsibility.”

You stole a quick glance at him, acutely aware of the weight of his gaze. His conversations were always so unpredictable, you thought. Still, you answered, keeping your tone steady, not wanting to sound defensive. “Someone had to save her,” you said simply. “I couldn’t just stand there and do nothing.”

He tilted his head slightly, his gaze slicing through you. “You had nothing to gain,” he pointed out, his voice turning colder. “Most people here wouldn’t lift a finger unless it benefited them. Why are you any different?”

You let out a slow breath, this was starting to sound like a job interview. Your gaze drifted to the window, where the first light of day was creeping over the horizon. “Because I don’t think I could live with myself if I didn’t do what felt right,” you answered, your voice quieter now, less certain but resolute. “I don’t just want to survive, Sae. I want to remember who I am, even in this place.”

The words hung between you, and for a moment, Sae said nothing. His expression was neutral, his eyes fixed on his plate. He didn’t respond right away, as if weighing your response in his mind. When he finally spoke, his voice was softer, almost introspective. “You think that’s enough? Being yourself?”

You met his gaze now, steady but thoughtful. “Maybe not,” you admitted, “But it’s the only thing I have control over.”

He studied you for a moment, and the tension in the air seemed to shift, as though cogs had clicked into place. “You’re either brave or foolish,” he said finally, his tone still sharp but with the faintest hint of interest. “I can’t decide which.”

You let out a small, almost amused sigh. “A bit of both, probably.”

Sae huffed, his lips curling into the faintest of smirks, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Idealism isn’t going to keep you alive.”

You raised an eyebrow at him, a trace of a smile playing on your lips. “It’s not idealism,” you countered, meeting his gaze directly. “It’s just�� who I am.”

“Who you are won’t matter if you’re dead.”

You held his gaze, unflinching. “Then why did you pull me out?”

The question made Sae pause. His jaw tightened for just a moment, and you could see a flicker of emotion—frustration? It was gone before you could fully catch it. He answered simply, his voice low, almost hesitant. “I didn’t want to waste the effort of watching you throw it all away.”

You smirked, a hint of sarcasm creeping into your tone. “Sure,” you replied dryly. “Because that’s all it was; effort.”

Sae’s expression shifted, his control slipping for just a fraction of a second. It was subtle, but you saw it. “Don’t misunderstand. You’re interesting, but interest doesn’t mean trust.”

“I wasn’t asking for your trust,” you said quietly, your voice softer now. “Just… trying to understand.”

For a long beat, he studied you. When he finally spoke again, it was with a quieter, almost distant tone. “If you want to survive here, don’t make decisions based on feelings. The only thing that matters is winning.”

You set your fork down, and with a probing question, you asked, “And what happens after you win?”

Sae didn’t answer immediately. He stared ahead, his gaze distant, as if considering something far beyond the confines of the dining hall. Finally, when he did speak, his voice was quieter. “I’ll cross that bridge when I get to it.”

You chuckled, the corners of your lips twitching with amusement. “Just so you know,” you said, setting your glass of water down with a soft clink, “You really suck at making casual conversation.”

His expression remained neutral, but his tone softened slightly. “It was genuine curiosity.”

This was likely the beginning of your unlikely friendship with Mr. Genius. He was different from the rest of them after all. Perhaps Sendou had been wrong about him, or maybe he had only scratched the surface of Sae’s complexities.

It intrigued you, drew you in, even if you weren’t entirely sure why. You wanted to get to know him, not as a means to secure your survival or win his approval, but simply as a person. A normal connection in a world where everything felt anything but that.

Still, whatever lay hidden beneath his icy exterior wasn’t something you could grasp. Not yet, at least.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

“For the record, this isn’t part of the Beach’s all-inclusive package,” Sae said dryly, stepping aside to let you in his room despite his comment.

Even with the comfort and relief your month off afforded you, the boredom had crept in faster than expected. Kaede was frequently assigned tasks and spent most of her time with Aiku, leaving you with long, uneventful hours to fill.

By the second day, you’d already exhausted your limited entertainment options and that’s how you found yourself standing outside one of the Beach’s exclusive suites. The one occupied by a certain red-haired executive.

“Really? I thought hospitality was included in the package,” you quipped, striding into the room without hesitation.

He raised an eyebrow at your boldness, closing the door behind you. “And here I thought you’d find better ways to waste your time.”

“Believe me, I’ve tried,” you shot back, scanning the room. It was impeccably tidy, with no sign of personal clutter, no books, no scattered clothes, not even an empty glass on the counter. “But since you’ve got all this space to yourself, I figured I’d grace you with some company.”

Sae gave you a flat look, crossing his arms as he leaned against the wall. “Company? Or are you just here to entertain yourself?”

“Can’t it be both?” you countered with a smirk, flopping onto one of the couches. “Besides, you owe me for saving your reputation as the cool-headed genius. Imagine what people would say if they knew you pulled me out of that game.”

He scoffed, but the faintest twitch of amusement tugged at the corner of his lips. “Let them talk. I don’t care about their opinions.”

You leaned back, folding your arms behind your head. “So, what do you do for fun, Mr. Itoshi? Or is brooding your only hobby?”

“I don’t brood,” he replied, his tone neutral but with a hint of defensiveness. “Unlike some people, I don’t need constant distraction.”

“Oh, right, because you’re too busy being a weirdo,” you teased.

He stared at you for a moment, as if debating whether to respond, before finally speaking. “If you’re going to sit here and bother me, at least make yourself useful.”

“Useful?” you echoed, feigning offense. “I’m the most useful person in this room right now. Without me, who’d remind you to lighten up?”

Sae let out a quiet huff, almost a laugh but not quite. “You’re insufferable.”

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

Surprisingly, Sae Itoshi could be quite agreeable.

It started small, like quiet conversations in his suite, debates about the pointlessness of certain games, and occasional sarcastic jabs that somehow felt less biting each time.

You discovered that, despite his aloof demeanor, Sae had a surprisingly talkative side when the mood struck him. Through one of those rare conversations, you learned he was a professional football player. While your football knowledge was that of a toddler, your adventurous nature wouldn’t let such an opportunity go to waste.

If only there were a football field somewhere in this eerie city, you’d have eagerly asked him to join you. But since there wasn’t, you settled for dragging him to the Beach’s bowling alley instead.

You figured he might enjoy a ball-related game, even if it wasn’t quite the same. Of course, you didn’t dare mention your “logical reasoning” to him; he’d probably take offense at the idea that you associated bowling with his beloved soccer.

Instead, you framed it as something to pass the time, though his skeptical glance suggested he saw right through you.

“You think rolling a ball at pins is a worthwhile way to spend time?” he asked, unimpressed.

The irony wasn’t lost on you, though you held back the urge to point it out directly. And yet you play in a team that kicks balls for a living, you thought to yourself with a smirk. “Better than sitting in your room sulking,” you shot back.

The competitive glint in his sharp eyes became unmistakable, and his precision started to show.

Neither of you had paid much attention to the scoreboard until a sudden burst of confetti erupted from the ceiling, startling you. The sound of clinking mechanisms followed, accompanied by an unexpected jingle of triumph.

A small chute dispensed the prize: a plump seagull plush, its goofy expression and floppy wings entirely out of place in the empty, unenthusiastic bowling alley. You both stared at it for a moment before Sae picked it up, his expression a mixture of confusion and faint embarrassment.

“Here,” he muttered, thrusting it toward you without looking in your direction. His usual composure wavered.

You blinked, surprised. Your lips quirked into a small smile as you tilted your head slightly, leaning in just enough to catch a glimpse of his face. He was stubbornly avoiding your gaze, his ears suspiciously red at the edges.

“Are you going to take it or just keep staring?” he said, his voice gruff but lacking its usual bite. Finally, he turned to face you, his teal eyes flickering.

Biting back a laugh, you reached out and took the plush from his hands. It was soft and silly in design, a stark contrast to the brooding atmosphere Sae carried with him. Clutching the toy against your chest, you grinned. “Didn’t think I’d leave here with a souvenir,” you teased lightly, your tone laced with genuine gratitude. “Thanks, Sae.”

He scoffed, turning his head slightly, but not fast enough to hide the faint tint of red creeping over his cheeks. “It’s just a stupid plush. Don’t make it a big deal.”

Holding the seagull plush tighter, you couldn’t help but think that, goofy as it was, it might just be the thing anyone has ever given you.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

You wondered if he’d actually warmed up to you. It didn’t feel as one-sided as it had at the start. Maybe this really had turned into a friendship—or something close to it. But the question remained: what exactly did you mean to him? Because you knew he wasn’t someone you could force into anything he did not want to do.

Sure, he complained. There were sighs, eye-rolls, muttered insults. But in the end, he always went along with it.

You were being delusional. Maybe, for him, this was nothing more than a way to pass time in this strange world. And if that’s the case you’d make the most of it.

That’s how you came up with the idea of dragging him to the karaoke rooms. It was stupid, sure, but the thought of getting someone like Sae to stand under disco lights with a microphone was too tempting to resist.

But when you opened the door to one of the karaoke rooms, you froze.

Lounging on the plush couch was Oliver Aiku, a girl straddling his lap. Her laughter rang out as Aiku whispered something into her ear, his grin as smooth and shameless as ever.

Your gaze quickly darted to the girl’s face, and you nearly choked on your surprise—it was Kaede.

Kaede, on the other hand, looked like a deer caught in headlights.

Aiku glanced up, his expression as smug as ever. Kaede flushed bright red, quickly scrambling off Aiku’s lap.

Still laughing, you waved Kaede a quick goodbye and followed Sae out of the room, unable to resist one last quip.

If you’d learned anything that day, it was that no matter how mundane or pointless he claimed a situation to be, he would still follow you. Yet, you couldn’t fully bring yourself to believe it, knowing that if you were wrong it would only crush the growing feelings in your fragile heart.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

The night air seeped through the thin cracks of your window, the cold brushing against your skin as you sat cross-legged on the floor of your room. The faint hum of the Beach’s generators was the only sound. Kaede was sprawled across the bed, her head resting on her hand as she stared at you with a look that was far too knowing.

The conversation had started innocently enough, idle talk about the games, the people here, and the way life seemed to teeter constantly on the edge of chaos. But then her words shifted, growing softer, heavier with meaning.

“You know,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper, “I think I’m falling for him. For Aiku.”

You blinked, her words pulling you from the depths of your thoughts. Aiku, the ever-charming executive with his disarming smirk. The way Kaede spoke, her voice tinged with an unfamiliar vulnerability, made it clear she was serious.

“I didn’t expect it,” she admitted, her gaze dropping to her lap. “It’s not like he’s been anything but himself—cocky, annoying, impossible to ignore. But there’s something there, something more to him.”

Her confession sent a ripple of recognition through you. That sense of being drawn to someone, of being unable to shake the weight of their presence—it wasn’t foreign to you. You felt it too, for Sae that is.

Kaede must have noticed the change in your expression because she lifted her eyes to meet yours. Her gaze was perceptive, and far too knowing. “And you,” she started, her tone gentler now. “Don’t even try to deny it. You like him, don’t you? Itoshi Sae.”

The words hit you like a blow, and your breath caught in your throat. You wanted to shrug it off, to laugh at her assumption, but the sincerity in her voice disarmed you. The cold of the room felt even sharper against your cheeks as heat crept up to them.

You bit your lip and gave the smallest of nods, your hands clutching the edge of your blanket like a lifeline.

Kaede’s expression softened, and she sat up, her hair falling messily over her shoulder. “It’s okay, you know,” she said, her voice quieter now, as if afraid to shatter the fragile admission you’d just made. “This place… it’s cruel. It makes us cling to things, to people, to anything that feels real. You’re human. So am I.”

A laugh bubbled out of you—soft, strained, almost bitter. “Yeah, but falling in love? Now? That’s not exactly the smartest move, is it?”

Kaede tilted her head, studying you. “Maybe not. But I think he cares about you more than you realize.”

You looked away, your gaze fixed on the open windowpane, it’s a bit far-fetched. “Even if he does… I can’t risk it. What we have now—it’s good. It’s safe. I don’t want to ruin that. If I say anything, if I… admit it to him, I might lose it.”

Kaede reached out, her hand covering yours, warm against the chill of the room. “You’re scared,” she said softly. “I get it. But don’t let fear stop you. We don’t know when this nightmare is gonna end, we might as well start living it.”

Her words lingered long after she’d fallen asleep, her breathing steady in the silence. You stayed by the window, staring out into the night, your heart heavy with the truth you couldn’t bring yourself to share with him. Fear wasn’t just stopping you—it was paralyzing. Because the thought of losing Sae, even in the smallest way, was unbearable.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

The Beach, with all its illusions of safety and utopia, could only hold back reality for so long. If your visa runs out, no matter where you hid, you’re dead. Today marked your last day of time off—and you already missed most of it.

When you opened the door to your room however, Sae was already standing there. His expression was unreadable, his arm extended toward the door indicating that he was one second away from knocking it himself.

“Missed me?” you teased, leaning against the doorframe.

He quirked an unimpressed brow, his voice dry as he replied, “I just wanted to check if your idiot ass didn’t accidentally get flushed down the toilet.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t suppress the grin tugging at your lips. Without much thought, you suggested skipping stones by the nearby river—a callback to the night you first met him. You wouldn’t admit it to his face, but you’d been longing to see him, to spend time with him, no matter how mundane the activity, as long as it was with him.

Sae, predictably, was skeptical. His gaze fell to the smooth pebbles in your hand, his brow furrowing slightly as if they were alien artifacts.

You gave a small smile, clearly unfazed. “It’s therapeutic,” you countered, tossing a stone with a flick of your wrist. The stone skittered across the water’s surface, bouncing three times before it sank beneath the surface with a soft plop. “See? It’s about finding rhythm.”

Sae stared at the smooth, round stones in your hand as if they were strange objects. “Therapeutic? It’s a rock. And water,” he said, his tone more skeptical than anything else.

“Come on, show me what you’ve got,” you prodded, tossing him a stone with a playful smirk.

His first attempt was, to put it mildly, clumsy. The stone barely left his hand before it plopped straight into the river with no grace, no finesse. You couldn’t help but laugh, the sound light and genuine.

“The great Itoshi Sae, defeated by a rock,” you teased, leaning against the riverbank with a wide grin.

His gaze flickered over to you, he really did hate losing. “Don’t push it,” he warned, though the sharp edge usually present in his tone was absent. It was almost as if your laughter had softened him, or at least caught him off guard.

Determined to prove himself, he picked up another stone, his jaw set in concentration. This time, his flick of the wrist was smoother. The stone skimmed across the water—one, two, three, four, FIVE times—before it sank with a soft ripple.

You blinked, genuinely impressed. “Not bad for a beginner,” you said, a slight, almost reluctant nod of approval following the words though betrayed by your most beaming smile.

He didn’t respond, but you caught the faintest flicker of satisfaction in his expression.

“I used to come here whenever I felt overwhelmed,” you shared, breaking the silence. Then, with a teasing grin, you added, “I’m sure you already knew that, since you were stalking me my first night at the Beach.”

His gaze flicked to you, and with practiced indifference, he replied, “I was just passing by.”

“Sure, sure,” you said, letting the topic drop as you idly tossed a pebble into the air and caught it in your palm. Your gaze drifted toward the river, your tone shifting to something quieter, more reflective. “So, it’s our last day, huh?”

“It’s not like we’re going to die tomorrow or something,” he replied casually, but his words faltered when he noticed your eyes glistening.

“We could,” you said, your voice trembling. “That’s what’s terrifying—we could die.” You buried your face in your palms, your quiet sobs breaking the night’s stillness.

The month had passed in a blur. Your moments with Sae had become a comforting routine—quiet conversations, playful banter, and a silent understanding that grounded you in this surreal reality. But as the end of the month loomed, so did the overwhelming fear of what lay ahead.

What he did next was something you never expected. Sae stepped closer. Without a word, he pulled you into his arms, his embrace firm yet careful, as if you were a fragile piece of glassware, afraid you might break. The cool night air nipped at your skin, his warmth wrapped around you, calming your frayed nerves.

“We’ll be fine,” he murmured, his voice low but resolute. “And if it helps, I’ll look out for you. Whenever I can, always.”

You pulled back slightly, looking up at him through tear-streaked lashes. “You promise?”

His response caught you off guard—not the nod or silence you expected, but a firm, steady, “I do.”

The sincerity in his voice and the gentle pat on your head made your heart ache in a way that was both painful and reassuring. For now, it was enough.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

Returning to the games, you found yourself shuffled between other executives.

One day, it was Kaiser and Ness, leading a Diamond game that required intricate strategy and manipulation. The next, you were paired with Don Lorenzo for a Spade game that pushed your physical limits, his menacing smiles exhibiting his golden teeth giving you constant discomfort. Even Loki’s charm couldn’t soften the brutality of a Club game that demanded relentless cooperation among strangers who knew nothing about each other.

No matter the variation in challenges or how cunning the leaders, the truth remained constant: this place was designed to break you.

During the times you were assigned to Sae, however, things were different. The casual interactions you once shared had shifted into something more professional. He was focused, sharp, and detached in front of others. Yet, even then, he didn’t fail to show that he cared. His gestures were subtle—an extra moment of consideration, a quietly murmured “be careful,” or the way he placed himself between you and danger without hesitation.

You were certain the others noticed the faint special treatment, even if Sae masked it well. But when no one else was watching, he dropped the pretense and treated you like a friend, like he always had.

It was during one of these unguarded moments that he handed you a bottle of water after a grueling game. His tone was brusque, but his actions were anything but, pushing it into your hand before walking off.

Or the time he lingered by your side after a particularly taxing Spade game. You’d been injured. It was just a scrape, really—but his gaze had darkened when he saw the blood. Without a word, he’d torn a piece of his shirt to wrap around your arm, his movements quick and efficient.

And then came that day.

One you could never have prepared for, no matter how much time you had.

In the Borderlands, there were no police, no FBI, no medics to retrieve the bodies. Death was final, and corpses were left to rot where they fell. But this time, it was different. This time, there was an attempt at retrieval—but it was far from professional.

The body was wrapped hastily in stained, reeking cloth, its outline grotesque, the pungent stench of death wafting through the air like a cruel mockery.

The sight offended every fiber of your being, not because of the lack of care but because of the unmistakable shade of blonde hair peeking out from beneath the blood-soaked fabric.

Kaede.

Your best friend.

You didn’t just cry—you wailed. Your voice tore through the air, a raw, guttural sound of anguish that clawed at your throat and left your chest heaving. The sobs wracked your body, a visceral release of the horror and grief that threatened to consume you whole.

It felt like the world had taken a blade and plunged it into your chest repeatedly, then run you over with a bus as the cherry on top. Your knees buckled, but you couldn’t fall. Not yet.

Bachira had explained the horror of the game she’d been trapped in, though you hadn’t needed the details to piece together the nightmare. A Heart game—vicious, cruel, and unforgiving. One player had been chosen to harbor the 9 of Hearts card, concealed within their body by the twisted hands of the game master; they would have to kill that person.

That player had been Kaede.

She had known.

They had all known.

Aiku, Reo, and Bachira himself had tried everything to protect her. Even if it meant fighting and shedding blood for her sake. But she had made the ultimate choice. By slitting her throat herself to spare them, she couldn’t bear to be the sole survivor in that awful, awful game.

Her life had ended by her own hand, but the horror didn’t stop there.

The card was needed to end the game. It was stuffed inside her lungs, to force the survivors to desecrate her body in the name of their own survival. Anri Teieri, a surgeon, was the only one capable of performing the task of retrieving it without as much as ruining her perfectly maintained corpse.

“No! Stop! Don’t touch her!” you screamed, thrashing in the lobby as they prepared to take her body away. Everything about it is sick, disgusting. Your voice cracked, and your struggles were wild, desperate, animalistic.

Sae had rushed toward you as soon as he heard the news. He was the only thing keeping you from collapsing completely. He held you back, his arms a steady force as you fought against him with everything you had.

“I’m sorry,” Reo muttered, his voice thick with tears. His face was battered, one eye swollen shut, his body covered in cuts and bruises. He cradled Kaede’s lifeless form in his arms as he carried her toward the basement where Anri waited.

“Where’s Aiku?” you screamed, your voice raw and broken.

Reo’s steps faltered. He didn’t look at you as he answered. “Unconscious. He’s in a coma… in the clinic.”

You felt like you were shattering, splintering into a million irreparable pieces.

You wanted to scream, to curse the world, to make it all stop, but Sae’s arms never left you. He had kept his word, that he’d always look out for you. He was your anchor, the only thing keeping you from being swept away by the tide of despair.

And even as the world seemed to crumble around you, his presence was the only thing that kept you standing.

That night, Sae didn’t leave you to face the hollow void of your shared room with Kaede. Instead, he let you stay in his. The silence between you was heavy, but not unbearable, it was better than the oppressive emptiness that awaited you in yours.

That night, as you lay curled up on his bed, you asked him, your voice trembling, if he swore he’d never leave you, cause you just lost Kae, and you couldn’t bear to lose him too.

He didn’t answer. Instead, he pulled you close, his arms encircling you in a way that felt both protective and fleeting. You buried your face in his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, and for a brief moment, it was enough.

He was still there for you in the ways that mattered most. When a game pushed you to your limits and you stumbled back into the lobby, bruised and battered, he was always the first to offer you water or silently leave a pack of bandages on your table. When nightmares jolted you awake in the dead of night, he would come moments later, as if sensing your distress, and sit beside you until you fell back asleep.

One evening, after a particularly brutal Club game, you found yourself limping back into the beach, blood trickling from a gash on your arm. Sae was waiting, leaning against the wall with his usual composed demeanor. He caught sight of your injury and immediately took your arm, leading you to a seat.

“Hold still,” he said, his voice low and steady as he cleaned the wound with practiced care.

“Thank you,” you murmured, searching his face for any sign of the warmth he once had. But his expression was unreadable, his eyes focused solely on the task at hand.

His gestures started to feel… distant. Like he was fulfilling an obligation rather than offering genuine care.

Later that night, you found a bowl of steaming soup left at your door, but when you sought him out to thank him, he was nowhere to be found.

More and more, it became harder to find him outside of games. He stopped lingering in the lobby after debriefings, his presence becoming increasingly scarce. Even during the times you were paired together, his demeanor seemed colder, more professional.

You tried to bring it up one night, catching him in a rare moment of quiet. “You’ve been distant lately,” you said, trying to keep your tone light, though the heaviness in your chest made it hard.

“I’ve been busy,” he replied curtly, his gaze fixed on the horizon rather than you.

“But—”

“You’re strong. You don’t need me hovering over you all the time,” he interrupted.

It was a contradiction, you realized. He was still there when you needed him, but he was pulling away in every other sense. It was as if he was trying to keep you safe while also building walls around himself.

You didn’t know if it was out of guilt, fear, or something else entirely. But as much as it hurt, you couldn’t bring yourself to confront him fully, not when you knew how much he’d already done for you.

And so, you let the distance grow, even as it tore at the fragile connection you still clung to.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

You had always believed it would remain that way. No matter how distant he became, no matter how much he avoided you, he would never truly leave you. There was a fragile comfort in that thought, a belief that despite the growing space between you, some invisible tether still connected the two of you.

But now, curled up in your blanket after that one day, the truth weighed heavy on your chest. You had assumed wrong.

It was late that day. The Beach had settled into its uneasy quiet, the faint hum of electricity in the hallways the only sound. You had been in your room, lost in thought, when a knock startled you.

When you opened the door, Sae was standing there. His expression was unreadable, his teal eyes darker than usual, shadowed by something you couldn’t quite name.

“Sae?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

He didn’t say anything, but he had sad eyes.

He stepped forward, closing the distance between you in an instant. Before you could process what was happening, his hand cupped your face, his touch surprisingly gentle, and his lips were on yours.

The kiss was sudden, and yet it felt like the culmination of every unspoken moment between you. It was rushed, desperate, as though he were trying to say something words couldn’t convey, as though he were racing against time, as if the moment were his only chance.

As if it was goodbye.

Your heart was pounding, your thoughts spiraling, but you couldn’t bring yourself to pull away.

And just as quickly as it started, it was over.

Sae stepped back, his hand falling to his side, his expression once again closed off. He looked at you for a moment—just a moment—and then he turned on his heel and walked away without a word.

You stood frozen in the doorway, your fingers brushing your lips, still warm from his. A thousand questions filled your mind, but no answers came.

The door clicked shut behind you as you sank onto the bed, your thoughts a tangled mess. Whatever had just happened, it had changed everything. And yet, as much as you wanted to chase after him, to demand an explanation, you stayed where you were, uncertain and unsteady.

Sae Itoshi had kissed you, and then he walked away.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

If you had the slightest idea of asking him for any sort of clarity, you couldn’t, not because you didn’t want to, but because you literally couldn’t.

He shut you out.

It wasn’t just the silence that stung, it was the absence of his presence, the subtle shift in the air when he was no longer around. He hadn’t spoken to you since that day, and the changes that followed were probably his doing as well.

You no longer saw him during games. Instead, you were constantly assigned to other executives.

At first, you thought it might be a coincidence, but as the days turned into weeks, it became painfully clear that it wasn’t. It was as though a door had been quietly, irrevocably shut between you.

The shift didn’t end there. The small gestures—those fleeting moments of acknowledgment or shared silence—became rarer. The places you’d once walked together were now foreign, empty.

Even the odd shared glance was gone. You couldn’t remember the last time he’d looked at you with any semblance of interest, let alone spoken to you. The brief connection you had once shared seemed to be slipping away, eroding, until all that was left was a hollow echo of what once was.

And for the first time, you felt what it was like to be truly alone.

The loneliness crept in slowly at first, like a shadow you couldn’t quite shake off.

There was a heavy emptiness in the spaces he used to occupy—his absence a constant reminder that whatever bond had existed between you had been severed.

The laughter, the fleeting moments of understanding, the quiet companionship in a world that felt too loud—it all felt like a distant memory now.

The others? They weren’t the same. Conversations with the other executives were strained, more transactional than meaningful. They didn’t ask about you in the same way, didn’t seem to care in the same way. You were a cog in the machine to them, just another role to fill.

Even the quiet moments you used to cherish—standing at the river, skipping stones, the comfort of being near someone without needing words—felt impossibly far away now. Those moments were yours and his, but now they felt like they belonged to someone else, to a version of yourself that no longer existed.

Each day, you woke up with the sense that something was missing, but you couldn’t put your finger on what. And maybe you didn’t need to.

The truth was already clear: you were alone. And you had no idea how long it would be before you could find your way back to something that resembled the connection you once had.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

It was around 2 in the morning when you heard the knock on your door. Groaning, you rolled out of bed, still caught in the haze of sleep. Stumbling toward the door, you swung it open, expecting a false alarm or maybe your overzealous roommate. Instead, your breath caught in your throat.

It was Sae.

He stood there, his usually composed demeanor fractured, discomfort etched across his face. His shirt sleeve was soaked with blood, the dark stain spreading ominously.

"I need your help," he said, his voice low but urgent.

His fatigue was unmistakable, and the rigid tension in his posture only made him seem more vulnerable—a version of Sae you had never seen before.

In all honesty, you were mad at him, no, you were furious. The audacity he had to show up now, seeking your help without so much as an explanation for his sudden and complete avoidance. Every ounce of anger you’d suppressed threatened to bubble to the surface, but you weren’t a petty person. You saw the blood, the pain he tried so hard to conceal, and that was enough to silence your protests. Instinctively, you stepped aside to let him in, but the sight of your roommate fast asleep on her bed made you pause.

Sae’s gaze flicked to her, and for a moment, his teal eyes softened, understanding the situation without you saying a word.

"I’ll wait for you," he said quietly, his voice uncharacteristically patient.

Grabbing the first-aid kit from your dresser, you followed him down the hall to his room. The silence between you was almost suffocating, the sound of your footsteps echoing against the walls.

When you reached his room, he was already sitting on the couch by the window, his back turned to you. The faint glow of the streetlights filtered through the blinds, casting long shadows across the room. He unbuttoned his sleeve, rolling it up to reveal the source of the blood—a deep, jagged gash carved into his upper arm.

The sight made your stomach twist, but you forced yourself to focus. Sitting beside him, you began to clean the wound. Sae didn’t flinch, but you noticed the faint tightening of his jaw whenever the antiseptic touched raw skin. His silence was heavy, as though he was holding back not just pain but words he couldn’t bring himself to say.

"What happened?" you asked softly, breaking the quiet.

Sae hesitated, his gaze dropping to the floor. “It was a difficult one. spade game,” he said finally, his voice clipped and distant. “Got slashed during the final round.”

The weight of his words hit you like a wave. This wasn’t just about the gash on his arm—it was a brutal reminder of the relentless stakes in this world, where survival demanded more than just physical endurance. Every wound, every scar was a testament to the unforgiving cost of staying alive.

You gathered the first-aid supplies with steady hands, though your heart pounded in your chest. Sae sat silently, watching you prepare a needle and thread. The sharp metallic scent of antiseptic filled the air as you cleaned the wound, your fingers brushing against his skin.

“This is going to hurt,” you murmured, glancing up at him.

He nodded, jaw tightening as you began stitching the wound with precise, practiced movements. Each pass of the needle through his flesh was met with his silent endurance, though his sharp intake of breath betrayed the pain.

The room was heavy with quiet, broken only by the soft rustle of bandages and the subtle rhythm of Sae’s breathing. The tension between you felt almost palpable, lingering like an unspoken truth neither of you dared to voice.

When you tied off the final stitch and leaned back to inspect your work, you let out a small breath of relief. “That should hold,” you said softly, your voice breaking the silence. But as your eyes met his, the gratitude and something deeper in his gaze made your chest tighten, leaving you wondering what words he was holding back.

Sae’s teal eyes flicked to yours. For a moment, they softened, and the tension in his shoulders eased. "Thanks," he murmured, his voice stripped of its usual sharp edge.

You stood to return the first-aid kit, the sound of the latch snapping shut echoing in the stillness of the room. When you turned back, the air in the room seemed thicker, charged with unspoken tension.

Something unspoken hung between you, growing louder in the silence.

The weight of it finally broke you.

“Am I really just someone for your convenience?” Your voice trembled, the question carrying the burden of weeks of uncertainty. “It’s unfair, you shut me out, you drop me, and then you come to me for help like nothing happened. Everything you’re doing is so unfair, Sae.”

His expression faltered, guilt flickering across his face like lightning through a darkened sky.

You pressed on, your words spilling out like a flood you couldn’t stop. “One moment, you’re prince charming—pulling me aside, whispering, ‘Come, let’s get lost for a while,’ making me feel like I’m the only person in this godforsaken hellhole who matters. And the next? You vanish. Like none of it meant anything. What am I supposed to make of that kiss?”

Tears welled in your eyes, the ache in your chest tightening like a vice. Frustration and heartache bleeding into every syllable. “If I’m wrong, just say it. Just say the words, and I’ll walk away. We can forget all of this, if that’s what you want.”

Your voice cracked, the weight of your emotions making it difficult to steady yourself.

You clenched your fists at your sides, fighting to maintain your composure.

“I’m not asking for some grand declaration of love,” you continued, your tone softer now but no less desperate. “I just can’t keep going like this, stuck in this limbo, with all these questions in my head.”

The soundproof walls of the room seemed to hold your speech, amplifying the vulnerability in every syllable as the silence around you pressed in.

Sae’s gaze fixed on yours, intense, but he remained silent. His normally detached expression was etched with shame, regret, and something you couldn’t quite place.

“Why don’t you say something?!” you exclaimed, your hands gesturing wildly, to fill the void of his silence carved into this very room.

His eyes darkened, brows knitting together as if fighting some invisible war within himself. His jaw tightened, the muscles in his neck straining as though he were holding back an eruption of words. For a moment, it seemed like he might walk away, leave you drowning in the sea of your own emotions.

But then, without a word, he reached out, catching your balled fists in his hands.

He brought them to his lips, his kiss soft but weighted with unspoken apologies. “I’m sorry,” he finally murmured, his voice barely audible. His jaw clenched, as though struggling to get the words out. “I can’t tell you everything right now. I just… I need you to trust me.”

Trust him? The thought was ridiculous, a bitter sting rising in your chest.

Your hands trembled as you shook your head, voice cracking under the weight of unshed tears.

"You don’t care about me, Sae," you choked out, the words laced with raw hurt. "You just use me... like you do everyone else." Each syllable felt like tearing open a wound, exposing the ache you’d tried so hard to bury.

"No," he said sharply. "You don’t get it."

"Don’t I?" you shot back, your voice rising. "You act like I’m expendable, but here I am, falling in love with the most detached person in the world."

The words lingered in the charged air, your confession landing like a stone thrown into still water.

Sae’s eyes widened, shock flashing across his face. But beneath it, there was a flicker of longing, of pain.

Sae was never a man of words. You knew that all too well. But as you turned, the weight of the moment threatening to crush you, his hand caught your wrist, keeping you from running away.

Before you could protest, he stood, the quiet intensity in his eyes rooting you in place. In one swift movement, he pulled you into his arms, his embrace firm and unyielding, as if holding you was the only thing keeping him from breaking apart.

The warmth of his touch seeped into your skin, chasing away the cold ache in your chest. His hands rose to your face, trembling slightly as they cupped your cheeks, thumbs brushing away the tears that fell freely now. His gaze locked onto yours—raw, unguarded, and so painfully human it stole the breath from your lungs.

“Sae…” you whispered, your voice barely audible over the thundering of your heart.

He said nothing. He didn’t have to. The honesty reflected in his teal eyes spoke louder than words ever could—a silent confession, a unspoken yet undeniable promise.

And then, with agonizing slowness, he leaned in, his lips brushing against yours.

This kiss was everything the first was not.

It wasn’t rushed or desperate, it was soft and sensible, filled with a quiet intensity that made your heart ache. He kissed you as if trying to tell you everything that he couldn't quite put into words. A deep apology for the agony and isolation you went through.

You knew you should pull away, demand answers, cling to the anger that had simmered inside you. Instead, you let yourself fall deeper, surrendering to the emotions that you held back for far too long. Your hands found their way to his chest, then to the back of his neck, fingers trembling slightly as you kissed him back with equal intensity.

His touch was soft against you, one hand cradling the back of your head as the kiss deepened , the other resting lightly on your jaw. Each passing second melting into and the world around you dissolved into a hazy blur until all you could see, feel, and breathe was him.

You'd be lying if you said you haven't been with anyone else before, but it had never felt like this. A conflict between your rational mind and the rest of your body craving for his touch.

Slowly, you felt his hands move to cup your ass, gently squeezing the plush skin as you moaned against his mouth. He took this as an opportunity to slide his tongue into your eager mouth, gliding alongside his own like sweet honey.

His hands travelled lower, grabbing your thighs to lift you up and proceeded to carry you towards the bed, not daring to break that heated kiss.

The soft dip of the mattress against the small of your back sent a jolt of awareness through you, but you didn’t stop him, not when he was on the bed hovering over you, his lips trailing down, brushing lightly against your jawline, to the curve of your neck, nipping at the soft skin.

The thin fabric of your white silk cover-up had been tossed away in one swift motion. Not that you had much clothing left underneath, you had the beach to thank for that, feather-thin yet still an insurmountable barrier separating you from him.

His fingers carefully pull down the strap of your bikini, slipping away inch by inch.

But then he hesitates.

His breathing hitched as he pulled back slightly, his eyes searching yours, guilt flickering across his face. “Sorry,” he whispered, starting to shift away, his apology tumbling out in fragments, but you caught him before he could retreat any further.

“Don’t,” you whispered, your voice soft but firm, pulling him closer, your hands clinging to his button-down shirt as you brought him back to you. “It’s okay.’

It was the first time you saw them so closely—eyes the shade of teal sapphires, a treasure just as rare as the man who bore them. Guilt in his gaze was evident, but so was the yearning, emotions he couldn’t bring himself to voice. He hovered over you, his weight supported by his arms on either side of you, his expression conflicted.

You'd been the one who pulled him back, lips pressing against his, as he kissed back with a new intensity.

Sae’s fingertips gently went back to undressing you, this time he didn't falter, quickly pulling your straps down, your breasts bouncing as it came free from its confines. He gropes your breast, fingers pulling at your nipple, caring not to neglect the other and presses open mouthed kisses till he feels the hardened bud against his lips.

You desperately cling to him, one hand tangled in his hair, pulling and tugging wildly at his reddish auburn locks. Your teeth sinking on your lower lip, a futile attempt to stifle the moans threatening to escape you right this second, but a needy whimper slips out as Sae sucks one pert nipple.

Another hand slowly and steadily pushes the flimsy fabric of your panties to the side, exposing your glistening folds. tracing your slit with the pad of his thumb, and slides two fingers into your entrance and pushes it in.

You’re tight, it was unreal. Clenching and throbbing against the fingers he gradually pumps inside you.

He takes your hand gently, lifting it to give a quick kiss to your knuckles and lowers his face to your inner thighs, lips pressing against it, leaving behind a trail of dark purple marks. A reminder of his unadulterated desire etched on your soft flesh.

You were utterly helpless against the wave of sensations as he held your throbbing core close, devouring your slick folds. Head tossing back, and breath hitching as the intimacy of the moment left you feeling exposed yet cherished in a way that stole the very air from your lungs.

The bed beneath shifted with every movement. messy—wet, hungry, and filled with a raw urgency that lust ignites.

He just couldn’t get enough of you.

Sae pulls away to peel his shirt off, you peer up at him through half-lidded eyes. His hair is messy, courtesy of all your pulling and grabbing, the only source of light in the room coming from the soft glow of the moon.

He wants to do you just like this, appreciating the work of art that you are, eyes lingering on your flushed face, breaths coming in shallow, panting gasps.

You start pawing at your own panties, impatiently trying to yank the piece of clothing down mewling, “Nngh. Sae, need more of you”, voice trembling with such fervor from the depth of your need.

Who was he to deny you?

“Shh baby, I got you.” He stills your squirming, quickly discarding your underwear and his, throwing them aside, as if nothing more than an afterthought.

He lets you rub his leaking cock with your soft palm. He's holding back subtle groans when he feels you stroke up and down the length of him. You felt him nudge your legs apart, aligning his cock with your entrance, pressing his forehead against yours, waiting for a nod, or a squeeze of his hand— anything that would tell him that he could move.

The only response you could give was an impatient roll of your hips to meet his.

Your approval was all he needed to slowly ease into your dripping cunt.

"Don't ever say I don't care about you," he whispers softly between your ragged moans, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. "Because every second in this fucked up world," he murmurs, brushing his lips over your cheek, "my thoughts are plagued." His kiss lingers on your neck, his voice a tender, loving murmur as he gently nibbles your ear. "by you.” and fully sheaths himself into your tight heat.

You’re tossing your head back from the sting of the stretch. But he was quick to whisper sweet nothings in your ear and kiss you stupid to catch your soft gasp.

His words, sweet as lullaby, a stark contrast to the rough way your walls are stretching to accommodate the length of him. You were utterly speechless by his bold expression.

This same man that never spoke so much more than blunt statements, now telling you just how much you really mean to him.

Wrapping your legs around his waist, you were desperately craving for him to be closer, as if he wasn’t already knocking on the gates of your cervix.

Your silent pleas didn’t come unnoticed, enticing him to lock one arm around your upper back, holding your thighs open as he began to rock into you. At this point he had his face buried on the crook of your neck, pushing his cock deeper and deeper into you, lost in the sweet euphoria of your tight, soaking core.

Your arms flew across his back, nails pressing into the firm muscle beneath your fingers. The look on your face made the corners of his mouth turn up. A rare smile that reached his eyes. You knew you looked just as intoxicated on this wave of pleasure as he did.

It felt perfect, heart pounding with so much adoration for the man you’re connected to at this very moment, making up for all the lost time.

“I missed you.” Sae whispers, each word laced with unguarded intensity that sends shivers down your spine. His voice is low, almost trembling, as if confessing a secret too precious to be spoken out loud.

“You idiot,” you replied, a shaky laugh escaping through the tears streaming down your face. Your voice wavered, caught between the weight of your emotions and the flicker of relief his words brought, the ache in your chest softening ever so slightly.

You feel yourself nearing your climax, a cracked moan broke from your throat, skin tingling with electricity as your body succumbed to pure ecstasy. He felt your cum all over his length as he chased after his own release. With one final thrust, as your velvety walls clench around him, and teeth grazing his shoulder. Emptying himself completely inside you. A warm sensation flooding your insides.

You felt him gently pull out, the warm fluid slowly seeping out your used hole.

You gently wiped the sweat from his forehead with the palm of your hand, a light chuckle escaping his lips as he leaned down to kiss you softly, before collapsing beside you, his breath steadying as he nestled you closer.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

Sae never falls asleep before you, not even during those nights when you stayed in his room.

He always waited for you to drift off first.

But this time was different.

As you glanced over at him, you saw the lines of tension that usually creased his face had smoothed out. His features, typically stoic and guarded, now seemed calm—peaceful even.

It was a serenity you hadn’t seen before, as though the burden he always carried had, for a fleeting moment, been lifted.

The soft moonlight seeped through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over his face and highlighting the faint rise and fall of his chest.

“I love you,” you whispered, the words slipping effortlessly from your lips, barely more than a breath in the stillness of the room. You knew he couldn’t hear you, he was fast asleep.

You lay nuzzled against him, head resting on his arm wrapped securely around you. Your fingers grazed absentmindedly over his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath your touch.

It was a moment you didn’t want to end, your own weariness slowly pulling you under as his warmth enveloped you.

Despite the intensity of the love you had confessed to him earlier that night, he hadn’t offered you an explanation. No words, just this. But this was enough. For now.

A/N: If you've made it to this point, all I wanna say is; Thank You so much for taking the time to read this story <3

This is the most shocking fic I’ve ever written! Honestly so surprised by the outcome and the amount of time, I poured into it (was even more than my college essays). Though I barely had the time to edit it :<

17k words wow, I had so many instances in which I felt like I just wanted to drop this fic all together because it wasn’t connecting the way that I wanted it to, but every time I read the drafts, there’s this feeling like a silent sense of accomplishment waiting if I do finish it, and I’m glad I pushed through, because I’m proud of the result.

This was actually a challenge from a friend—play with the tropes of forced proximity (but not really) and friends to lovers with Itoshi Sae. I thought it was such an outrageous request, but then an idea struck when I was rewatching Alice in Borderland and binging Blue Lock. Out of nowhere, I thought: What if Sae were in this setting?

I hope I did justice to blending tropes, but either way, I really hope you all enjoyed reading it!

It was intentional on my part to leave readers feeling confused in this part—after all, if you were in that kind of situation and environment, and he treated you this way, you’d be confused too.

Should I write Part 2? If I do decide to write a second part it will start from Sae’s POV to explain his side of the story.

───🃁🃜🃚🃖🂭🂺🃁───

if you enjoyed my work please consider donating on ko-fi ^^

PART 2

#(っ´ཀ`)っcienefics #itoshi sae AU #blue lock au #bllk sae #itoshi sae #itoshi sae x reader #itoshi sae x you #sae itoshi #sae itoshi fluff #sae itoshi smut #itoshi sae smut #sae itoshi x reader #sae x you #blue lock smut #blue lock x aib

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nilsavatar · 2 months ago

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DAY 23 BITING - Part 5

Parings: Neteyam x Fem!human

PART 1, PART 2, PART 3, PART 4

Genre/Warnings: fluff, ANGST, introspective, delicate themes (hibrid pregnacy, political and ideals conflict). All characters are AGED-UP. This the sequel of the @layla2-49 request used to fullfil the promp day 23 of lunakinktober 2023

Summary: Following the unexpected pairing that occurred at the Tree of Souls, after connecting as only two Na'vi normally could, Celeste and Neteyam entertain a clandestine relationship. Several times they have discussed coming out, but the girl is too prey to her insecurities as a human to do so. It is Eywa who will decide for both of them with a disconcerting revelation: they have conceived a hybrid child.

Word Count: 3,2k

Masterlist - Request a fic

Celeste sat on the edge of the medical cot, gripping the fabric of her shirt with shaking fingers. The weight of Neteyam’s words still hung in the air.

“You’re not human anymore.”

She wished to deny it, to cling to what she knew, but how could she? Every breath she took in Pandora’s air without choking, every whisper of life she felt moving under her skin, alien sensation coursing through her veins, told her the same truth. The child was manipulating her systems to an extent never before observed, just as a hybrid pregnancy had never been seen in the past. And no one knew when it would stop—if it would stop. Max and Norm had thrown themselves into research, but their finding only led to more questions.

“Her DNA is restructuring at a cellular level,” Norm explained, swiping through the scans on the holo-screen. “Her skeletal structure is shifting. Her respiratory system has already adapted, and now…” he hesitated, looking over at her. Max sighed. “Your nervous system is being reconfigured. That queue forming at the base of your skull? It’s not cosmetic. Your body is developing a neural interface like the Na’vi.” Celeste swallowed hard, reaching back to touch it. It was still small, hidden beneath her thickening hair, but she could feel it now. A living part of her that shouldn’t be there.

Jake, who had been pacing silently, stopped short. “Are you saying she’ll be able to connect to Eywa?” His voice was gruff, skeptical, fearful. His friends exchanged a glance before turning back to the girl. “We don’t know yet, but it’s a possibility.” Netyam, seated quietly by her side until now, finally spoke. “And the baby?” His voice was even, but his fingers curled into fists on his lap. “The baby… is accelerating it.” Their breath caught. “The hybrid nature of the fetus is actively rewriting Cel's biology to accommodate it,” Max continued, voice full of scientific accuracy marred by paternal concern, looking now at her. “This phenomenon occurs in all pregnancies and is known as microchimerism. If refers to the transfer of cells between mother and child through the placenta. Even in normal pregnancies, it is a little-known occurrence, but in your case, the influence of fetal-origin chimeric cells exceeds typical limits.”

Neytiri had remained silent the entire time, standing still beside her son. One hand gripped his shoulder, drawing comforting concentric patterns on his deltoid, while her golden eyes remained severe. But now, she stepped forward and crossed her arms. “You mean to say the child is forcing this change?” Norm grmaced. “It’s not forcing—. Something in the child’s DNA knows she wouldn’t survive carrying it in a purely human body.”

Celeste flinched at Norm's words, her heart pounding violently, Neteyam tensed next to her. Would she still be herself when this was over? Would she recognize her own face, her own mind? Or would she become something entirely different, something that neither human nor Na’vi would truly accept? The thought was terrifying.

Jake cast a warning look at his wife as if to caution her from speaking her mind. Neytiri’s expression didn’t soften, but she said nothing more. Then his eyes drifted back to his daughter-in-law, the way her skin was shimmering gently in the lit obscurity of the lab, how her body was progressively adapting. The tswin shaping at her nape had shaken him more than he wanted to admit. If her form was mutating so drastically, what would that mean for the child? And for her?

He had spoken with Neytiri in private, hoping for some measure of reassurance, but he had found her just as torn. “We don’t know what this means,” she had said, her voice quiet but heavy. “And that’s what scares me the most,” he had admitted. He wasn’t just worried about the girl. He was worried about what her transformation would mean for the clan. If Eywa was manipulating her DNA through the fetus, then why? What future was she shaping?

And what if it wasn’t meant to last? What if Cel was being remade to bring this child into the world, only to lose her in the process? That thought kept him awake more nights than he could count. He knew what would happen if the worst-case scenario occurred. He knew all too well the emptiness of losing someone dear to you. He had experienced it more times than he would have wished for even his worst enemy. He had lost friends, comrades, his brother. He had almost lost his son. Immediately, his mind went to him. What would become of Neteyam if he lost her? He would never be the same; even now he did not recognize him, worn down by anguish.

What about Spider? Celeste was his home, his comfort in a world that did not belong to him. They were twins, just like Jake and Tommy, they had lived everything together. But just as had happened to the Sully twins, at some point their paths had inexorably split, taking them on two distant paths. Only in appearance. Just as Jake's destiny had led him to overlap with his brother's, so Spider was to come alongside in support of his sister's. Besides fear, how must he have felt in passively witnessing her metamorphosis, who day by day seemed to become closer and closer to a Na'vi than a human? That he just could not imagine.

Jake needed answers. And he feared they were coming faster than anyone was ready for. The latest tests confirmed her transformation wasn’t stopping. Max and Norm had gone over the results a dozen times, looking for any sign that this was something temporary. Something they could explain. But there was no precedent for this. Her DNA was shifting, human markers were fading at an alarming rate, replaced by something that straddled the line between Na’vi and… something else new.

Her complexion had taken a weak lavender undertone, barely visible in bright daylight but unmistakable at twilight and dawn, when the light was less vibrant and strong. Her nails sharpened slightly, and finally, she no longer needed food like humans did. Her frame craved raw energy—sunlight, the forest, the pulse of Eywa herself. The longer she stayed indoors, in the compound, away from the living nature, the more drained she felt. It was tiring. Suffocating.

It happened a week later. Celeste had insisted on stepping outside the lab. She couldn’t take it anymore of the white walls, the observation screens, the constant monitoring. The moment her mate stepped inside, one look was all he needed. “You have to be outside,” he said, even if his voice was laced with reluctance. She nodded, but Spider got anxious, looking between them and then back at Max. “Is it safe?” The doctor let out a sigh, rubbing his jaw. “Safe? No idea. But keeping her locked in here isn’t helping. If anything, it’s making things worse.” Jake exhaled sharply, running a hand over his face. When Celeste met his gaze, something in her expression softened him. Damn, he thought, he always had a weak spot for her, like with Kiri and Tuk, his baby girls. He was definitely a girl’s daddy, unfortunately for himself. “Okay.”

She didn’t wait. The moment her bare feet touched the ground, she felt it. A wave of energy surged up through her legs, into her spine, as if the very land beneath her had been waiting for her return. The air hit her lungs with a rush of clarity, sharper, richer than anything she had ever felt. Her skin prickled, the glowing freckles responding to the pulse of the world around them. The jungle came alive around her, as if the planet was welcoming her back.

And then the pain started.

Celeste staggered, gripping Neteyam’s arm as a sharp, searing heat spread up her spine. “Cel?” His voice was urgent, his grip steady, but she could barely hear him. The world around her blurred, the sounds of the forest amplifying to an unbearable degree. She gasped, collapsed to her knees as white-hot agony lanced through her head. Neteyam was shouting, dropping beside her, hands gripping her shoulders for stability, Kiri and Lo’ak rushing forward, but she couldn’t focus on anything except the sensation of something unfurling from her body. An intense, searing pain lanced through her skull, as the base of her neck split open, releasing the long, trendily-like strands that had been growing beneath her nape.

Something ripped through the base of her head. Her queue. A fully formed, living, breathing kuru.

She reached up instinctively, fingers trembling as they touched, yet Celeste wasn’t afraid. Because as her kuru writhed in the air, reaching, searching, she perceived something. Vast, alive, profound, and endless, welcoming her like a mother greeting a lost child. Her breath hitched.

She could feel Eywa as more than just a presence—she felt her in her bones. The connection was instantaneous. Overwhelming. She sobbed, hands gripping the earth, shaking as the energy of the world itself surged through her. Neteyam was there, arms wrapping around her, his forehead pressing against hers. “Ma muntxate,” he whispered, voice thick with emotion. She had no words. Because deep down, she knew. She had crossed a threshold that could never be undone.

The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and blooming flora, yet all Celeste could feel was the fire coursing through her veins. Her body still trembled, her breath shallow as the tendrils of her queue twitched against her back, newly formed and sensitive to every shift in the air. It was a weird, indescribable sensation.

Everyone had fallen silent, staring at her in a mixture of awe and fear. Neteyam hadn’t moved from her side. His hands still cradled her face, his golden eyes flickering between wonder and worry. “Yawne…” His voice was hushed, reverent, like he was afraid to break whatever spell had just woven itself around her.

But Jake… Jake was rigid. He stood a few feet away, his expression unreadable, but the tension in his jaw said everything. He wasn’t just shocked. He was afraid. Celeste forced herself to take a breath, focusing on the way nature seemed different now. The hum of Eywa’s presence was louder, a song thrumming beneath her skin. Every leaf, every creature, every pulse of life—it all resonated with her in a way that was impossible to describe.

She was no longer just aware of Pandora. She was part of it.

“We need to get her back inside,” the olo'eyktan finally said, voice tight. His son's grip on her tightened. “Keeping her locked away won’t change anything.” The man’s eyes snapped to his firstborn. “You don’t know that.” “And you do?” Kiri’s voice cut through the sky, sharp and defensive. She had been kneeling beside his best friend, her hands hovering near her shoulder as if wanting to touch but not daring to. “Eywa is doing this. Can’t you feel it?”

Their father let out a breath, his gaze shifting to Norm in his avatar form, looking for confirmation. But he remained silent, her piercing amber eyes fixed on his adoptive niece as if studying something sacred—and terrifying.

Celeste swallowed hard, feeling the weight of their uncertainty pressing down on her. “I don’t think this will stop,” she whispered. “It’s not just the queue. My body is still… shifting.” She flexed her fingers, watching the faint bioluminescence swirl beneath her skin. Jake shook his head, muttering under his breath before turning once again to Norm. “Is this even possible?” The scientist exhaled, rubbing a hand over his neck. “Scientifically? No. But nothing about Pandora works by human rules.”

A heavy silence settled between them. It was Kiri who finally spoke, her voice quiet but firm. “Eywa has chosen her path. Whether we understand it or not… it is already set.” Celeste shuddered. She knew, deep in her bones, that she was right. There was no going back. And the question that loomed over all of them now was—

What was she becoming?

That night, Celeste sat at the edge of the outpost, her arms wrapped around her knees, watching the forest shift under the soft bioluminescent glow of Pandora. The air hummed around her, every leaf and creature alive in ways she had never perceived before.

Before. That word felt heavier now, like a distant memory of a life that no longer fit her. Her queue rested against her shoulder, its presence both foreign and natural. Every so often, the tendrils twitched, reacting to unseen energies in the air. It should have terrified her. Instead, it felt right.

Footsteps approached, and she didn’t need to turn to know it was Neteyam. She could feel him now, sense him in a way that had nothing to do with sight or sound. “You should be resting,” he murmured, lowering himself beside her. She let out a quiet laugh. “How do you rest when your whole body is rewriting itself?” Her lover didn’t answer right away. He watched her, his honey eyes reflecting the soft blur of the forest. “Does it hurt?”

She thought about it. Physically, no. The initial transformation had been painful, but now it was something else—like her body was stretching into something it was always meant to be. “No,” she admitted. “It’s just… overwhelming. Everything feels so different, so new.”

Neteyam reached out, hesitating before brushing his fingers over her forearm. The contact sent a shiver up her spine, not just from the touch itself, but from the way she could feel him—his presence, his emotions, even the warmth of his spirit, like he was somehow connected to her beyond just flesh.

His expression softened. “I don’t care what you become, do you know that, right? You are still you. You are still my mate.” A lump formed in her throat. She wanted to believe that. But was she really still the same person? Before she could answer, rustling from behind made them both tense.

Jake.

He stepped forward, arms crossed, his gaze flickering between them before settling on her. His expression was unreadable, but she could sense the conflict inside him. “We need to talk,” he said. Neteyam stiffened beside her. “Dad—” “Alone.” Celeste placed a hand on Neteyam’s, silently reassuring him before nodding. “It’s okay.” Reluctantly, he squeezed her fingers before standing and stepping back into the shadows of the outpost, leaving her alone with Jake. For a moment, neither of them spoke.

The man exhaled, hardly, embarrassed, almost, before sitting down beside her. He didn’t look at her at first, just stared into the lively jungle. Night had fallen deep and heavy across the forest, wrapping the world in a silken hush. The trees shimmered faintly with bioluminescent moss, the air thick with the sounds of life breathing in unison. But its beauty faded as he looked at her, his jaw tight.

“This isn’t what I wanted for you,” he finally said. She swallowed. “I know.” “You don’t understand.” He turned to her, eyes dark with something raw. “I’ve seen people change because of this planet. I know what it means when Eywa chooses someone. It’s not just about you anymore. It’s about the future. And the future…” He trailed off, inhaling sharply. “I don’t know what looks like anymore.” Her chest ached. “I didn’t ask for this,” she whispered.

He rubbed his hands together. Jake hadn’t felt this lost in a long time. He had fought wars, led people, faced the impossible—but this? This was beyond impossible. He wasn’t in front of an enemy right now; Celeste wasn’t just another battle to strategize around. She was family.

He had taken her in when she was just a kid, guided her, protected her, loved her like she was his own. And he was forced to watch her change into something he didn’t comprehend—something he wasn’t so sure he could understand. He wasn’t sure if she even needed him anymore. He couldn’t accept that, no father can. Cel and Neteyam had each other now, but in his eyes, they would always be children. His children.

The girl sat beside him, quiet but steady, her bright veins barely visible under the starlight. He looked at her tswin, how it rested against her skin like it had always been there. It made his stomach twist. She looked Na’vi, but she also didn’t. She looked still human, but she wasn’t anymore. Now something in between, a being Eywa had shaped with her own hands.

Celeste hesitated, then reached up, touching her queue, sensing his intense stare glaring at it. She didn’t feel in danger, at the same time, she felt the urge to shield her most vulnerable part of her body. The tendrils reacted instinctively, perceiving the tension in the air. Jake studied her, his eyes searching for something—doubt, fear, anything that told him she wasn’t so prone about this. But she was. She knew this was happening for a reason.

“Jake,” the girl pronounced softly, breaking the silence. “I know this scares you.” His jaw tightened, ��‘m not scared—” “Yes, you are.” Her voice was gentle but firm. “And I get it. But I’m still me. I’m still your daughter.”

Something inside him cracked. He turned to her then, really looked at her—not as a mystery to solve or a threat to predict, but as the girl he had raised. The girl who used to stumble over her own feet trying to keep up with Lo’ak and Spider. The girl who had sat with him at the edge of the forest, asking questions about flying, about war, about the world she had grown up in but never truly belonged to. Finally, he sighed. “Kid…” his voice came out rough.

Celeste reached for his hand, and when her fingers curled around his, he almost pulled back—not because he didn’t want the touch, but because for the first time, he could feel something else beneath her skin. A pulse. A hum. The same thing he felt when he connected to the Tree of Souls.

It was her. Eywa was inside her, woven into her frame, her spirit.

Jake swallowed hard. “I don’t know how to protect you from this,” he admitted, voice low. “I don’t know what this means for you, for Neteyam, the clan. For any of us. This doesn’t just change you. It changes everything.” Celeste’s fingers tightened around his. “I don’t either.” She looked down, taking a breath before meeting his gaze again. “But I know I don’t want to do this without you.”

The man let out a shaky breath, rubbing his free hand over his thigh. It would be easier if she were just changing. If she were becoming Na’vi, like he had when he left his human body behind. That, at least, he could get.

But this? This was something Eywa herself had allowed—maybe even designed.

Celeste wasn’t just shifting from one thing to another, and Jake had no idea what that meant. But as he looked at her, at the fierce determination in her eyes, at the way she still held his hand like she had when she was younger, when she still trusted him to lead her—

He knew one thing for sure. He wasn’t letting go. “You’ll always have me, baby girl,” he said, voice thick. Celeste’s breath hitched, her eyes shining—not just with the eerie halo of her transformation, but with something far more human. And for now, that was enough.

Taglist: @minnory@faith2155@stardream14@akari-rosefield

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hihhasotherfixations · 1 year ago

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Cheating - Price x Reader NSFW

When you find your boyfriend cheating on you, you look for refuge in your captain’s arms.

CW: fem!reader, unprotected p in v, cheating

Word Count: 6280

If you said you didn’t expect your evening to go like this, it was an understatement.

Standing in the doorway to your bedroom, your eyes were locked on the bodies moving under the sheets.

Your boyfriend, the man you had been with for the last 2 years, lay in your shared bed on top of his coworker.

With every movement, the raggedy bed creaked, their lower halves covered by the blanket - though the thin material did nothing to hide what was going on underneath, his hips vigorously thrusting while the woman moaned - the two of them completely in their own world.

After two months out in the field, you’d finally returned from deployment, coming back a week early even. And now here you stood, watching the man who supposedly loved you fucking another woman.

It was like you were frozen. Every cel in your body wanted you to run, disgust curling through your stomach, and yet you couldn’t move. You just stood there, nauseous as you watched.

And what was even worse; the woman (though you recognised her, you couldn’t remember her name) was wearing a blindfold. Your blindfold. Your shitty excuse of a boyfriend couldn’t even have the decency to buy her separate stuff.

That thought, that rage, was enough to get you moving as you stormed over, yanking the blanket back, causing both parties on the bed to gasp.

“You absolute asshole!” You yelled, slamming your army bag into your boyfriend’s side, successfully breaking the two apart and causing him to nearly topple off the bed.

“Y-Y/N?” He asked, the colour draining from his flushed face as he looked at you, his eyes wide as he saw you standing there. Home. “You’re early…”

The woman, hearing everything, scrambled back on the bed, pushing the blindfold up to be able to see, her eyes settling on you.

Immediately, a guilty look overtook her features but you couldn’t be bothered to give her another second as you glared at your boyfriend instead.

“Look, baby…” He tried but you instantly shut him up with just a hand gesture, seething.

Standing there in your army uniform, with your naked lover and his affair partner in front of you, you were simply at a loss for words.

A part of you wanted to grab him, throw him, hurt him - do everything you were ever taught when it came to fighting - but you decided against it. He wasn’t worth a possible assault charge.

So instead, you took a step back while your emotions raged inside you. “We’re done.” With that, you turned around and walked out.

“Y/N, wait!” Your boyfriend called out, scrambling to cover himself before he ran after you but by that point you’d already reached the front door, glaring back at him before you slammed the door right in his face and locked it.

Immediately, the doorknob started to jiggle before you heard a muffled curse.

With tears in your eyes, you looked down at the two keys in your hand. You’d purposely taken his as well, locking him inside.

Sniffling, you just dropped his keys on the doorstep, leaving him to figure out how he’d get out and get them as you then proceeded to walk away and to your car, needing to just get away.

As if things couldn’t get any worse, rain started up.

Within 20 seconds it was pouring down and you ran along the street to your car.

Your usual parking spot in front of your apartment wasn’t free, which is why you’d had to park an entire block away. Now you knew why.

By the time you reached your car and jumped in, you were soaked to the bone. Droplets splattered satisfyingly on the windshield of your car while you threw your duffel bag to the backseat, letting your head fall back against the seat as you covered your face with your hands.

Within ten minutes, everything had gone to shit.

The relationship you’d been so secure in was a sham. The guys had always joked you were smitten whenever you mentioned your boyfriend; Ghost playfully complaining and Soap making crude jokes whenever he could while Gaz would nudge you. It had all been fun then. As you sat here now however, it wasn’t.

Reaching into your pocket, you pulled out your phone - only moderately damp - and scrolled through your contacts with tears in your eyes.

You needed someone, you needed someplace to stay even. But you knew your best friend would ask a million questions before going on a warpath, and you weren’t exactly in the mood to explain it to the teasing triad, seeing their jokes turn into sympathy.

That left one person. Captain Price.

Sniffling, you let out a shaky breath before scrolling through your contacts. Last time you’d contacted him outside of work was to ask him for what he wanted as a birthday gift. That wasn’t to say you didn’t speak with the man or had a bad relationship, no, the complete opposite even. When not out in the field giving orders, he was kind, supportive, understanding and funny even. And most of all, he left you be in your relationship without meddling like the others.

So, without much of a thought, you typed up a message.

‘Hey, cap.

Due to some circumstances I need a place to sleep. Could I crash at your place?’

It was vague and probably a stupid way to ask but at the moment you couldn’t muster up the energy to care - all of said energy going into the effort to not cry over the piece of shit your ex-boyfriend was.

Faster than you expected, your message turned to being read as you saw the indication he was replying pop up.

‘Without question.

You know the address?’

Sniffling, you wiped your nose with the back of your hand and smiled at your phone. Typing a quick ‘yes’, you then got another message.

‘Good. Drive safe in this weather.’

For some reason, just that was enough to make your emotions spill over the wall you’d shoddily built and you began to cry while putting your phone down and starting the ignition.

Putting your captain’s address in your car’s navigation took a bit longer because of it, though the added benefit was that your cries quietened enough for you to drive by the time you’d managed to get it on.

Despite Price’s text, you drove without much care, the windshield wipers doing overtime in the pouring rain as thunder started to rumble.

Beside you, your phone started to light up with texts and calls, your boyfriend trying to contact you though you ignored them.

Within twenty minutes, you reached Price’s house and you parked your car right in front of his door. His own was sitting neatly in the driveway, leaving room for you on the street.

Wiping your tears away one last time, you composed yourself as much as you could before grabbing your bag and phone, taking your keys out of the ignition before you got out of the car and began rushing to Price’s home.

Looking up, the door was already open with Price standing beside it, beckoning you inside.

The moment you did, he closed the door, shutting out the rain and thunder right as a lightning flash in the clouds lit up the dark outside.

“Bloody hell.” Price remarked as he then took a step back and took you in, scanning you from head to toe.

Standing there, dripping wet, you guiltily stepped back until you were standing on the ‘welcome’ mat by the door, not wanting to drip water into his wooden floor. “Sorry to barge in.” You spoke softly but at that point, Price had already clocked the puffiness of your eyes and congestion of your nose, clear indicators you’d been crying.

“Here, let me.” He spoke as he took your bag from you, setting it down on the floor next to his own. Because of course, he’d only just gotten home as well. He stood before you in jeans and a shirt, but you figured he didn’t have much time to change into that before you’d already contacted him.

“I… uhm-“ You started, wanting to offer some sort of excuse or explanation but Price stopped you with a shake of his head.

“We need to get you dry first.” He spoke, a hint of his trademark authority in his voice. “Take off your shoes and follow me. I’m not letting you put on a dirty uniform, so you can borrow from me for the time being.” He spoke, nudging at your duffle bag with his sock-clad foot to emphasise what he meant.

Simply nodding, you bent down, cringing at the feeling of your wet clothes moving with you as you untied your boots. Though you’d worn this uniform while wet plenty of times, that didn’t mean it was ever nice.

Once your shoes were off, you stood back up straight and Price motioned for you to follow him.

Doing just that, you stepped from his entrance hall out into the living room, seeing the comfortable couch to the left that you and the team had spent many a night drinking on whenever your captain hosted an evening in together.

“Y/N.”

Snapped out of your reverie, you looked up to see Price standing to the right, at the bottom of the stairs leading upwards.

“Sorry.” You mumbled but Price just waved it off, beckoning you to follow him.

When you did, he started ascending the stairs, leading you to a room at the far end of the hallway, opening it to reveal what seemed to be his own bedroom.

“I don’t have a lot of choice of clothes for you unfortunately, my apologies.” He hummed, walking over to a drawer cabinet as he opened the bottom drawer, revealing pants.

Taking out a pair of sweatpants, he handed it to you before opening the second most top drawer, grabbing a random black long-sleeve shirt from the bottom of the pile to give to you as well.

“I think those would fit best.” He hummed before his eyes trailed down, lingering on your hips as he then slightly pursed his lips. “Do you think you need uh…” He started, hesitating to actually say it, though you quickly picked up on it.

“Oh, no. I’m not that wet, thankfully.” You quickly said, holding up the pants and shirt he gave. “These are fine, thank you. I’ll just go change in the toilet downstairs.” You spoke, feeling awkward and a little skittish and suddenly, Price’s hand was covering yours, warm and calm.

“You can change in the bathroom next door. There’s a warm towel there too which you can use.” He spoke, his voice suddenly calm and reassuring, almost soothing.

And it was embarrassing how much it helped to calm your nerves. But then again, maybe it was an instinct weened into you given your captain always was the voice of reason and calm on the battlefield. That’s what you told yourself at least.

Walking into the bathroom with the clothes in your arms, you gently shut the door behind you, letting out a shuddering breath as you leaned back into it, closing your eyes.

I the span of an half an hour, everything was flipped upside down and even if you’d already broken down, it didn’t feel like you’d truly processed what had happened.

Just shaking the thoughts off for now, you decided to change, getting into the sweatpants and tightening the draw string around your hips before switching shirts as well, adjusting the clothing where necessary.

Once done with that, you looked around to see a white towel hanging next to a grey one on a heated rack. Reaching out, you ran your hands over it, feeling the grey one damp - most likely used by Price to take a shower earlier when he got home. Moving over to the white one, you grabbed it, pleasantly surprised by the warmth and softness of it.

Using it to dry your hair, you were soon done and politely hung the towel back on the rack, making your way out of the bathroom after.

Moving downstairs, you heard the sound of a kettle whistling, making a small smile form on your face, knowing how proud your captain was of his kettle, passed down to him by his late mother.

Coming off the stairs, you saw Price by the kitchen counter, busying himself with pouring two cups of tea.

“Thank you for letting me borrow these.” You spoke softly, catching Price’s attention who looked up at you and smiled.

“Not a problem, love.” He hummed, making you blink at the nickname. “Come with me to the couch.” He beckoned before picking up the mugs, taking the lead.

Following him, you gingerly sat beside him while he placed your mug on a coaster, for which you softly thanked him.

“What’s going on then?” He asked after a moment, turning his body to you.

Looking over at the man, instead of the stern look you expected - one you’d seen plenty of times when reprimanded during training - his face was soft, a worry line on his forehead and his eyes slightly creased. Concern.

“I, uhm.” You mumbled, reaching out to grab the mug of tea as you cradled it, revelling in the warmth as it warmed your chilly bones.

“Take your time.”

It was the way he spoke it. Soft and in a whisper, a care shining through that broke you, causing tears to rapidly fill your eyes.

Seeing that, Price shifted closer, placing a comforting hand on your leg as he squeezed.

“I found my boyfriend, uhm-“ You started, taking in a shaky breath, trying so hard not to cry, trying to stay composed. “With another woman.”

Your voice cracked and diluted into a whisper near the end as you hid behind the mug, feeling pathetic.

“Oh, sweetheart…” Price breathed out, moving closer until his hip was pressed to yours, his right hand slinging over your shoulders while his left carefully took the time to put the tea back down. Wasting not a second after, he pulled you into himself.

Being so suddenly pulled into a hug, your face screwed up and you started crying all over, your breaths small and fast and your sobs pained.

“It’s okay.” Price soothed, holding you tightly.

Slowly, you curled your arms around his waist, crying into his shirt. “He was just there, doing it in our bed.” You cried and Price gently held you, rubbing your back.

“It’s not your fault.” He spoke softly, almost muttering into your hair and you nodded, trying to believe it as you felt yourself melt into his warmth and the comfort he brought.

“I broke up with him on- on the spot.” You sniffled, not wanting to sob in front of the man you looked up to. “He tried to run after me.”

“But he didn’t?” Price asked, a little confused but you shook your head no.

“I locked him inside the house.”

At that, a small, baffled laugh escaped the brunet. “You locked him inside? That’s my girl.” He grinned, pulling you in tighter as he rubbed your back again.

Just then however, his eyes landed on your pocket, his smile replaced by a frown.

“Your phone keeps going off.”

Sniffling, you wiped your nose and looked at your pocket. Though you kept feeling the thing buzzing in your pants, you were too far in your head to register it. Now however, you remembered and reached into the pocket, pulling your phone out.

Unsurprisingly, your boyfriend’s contact was displayed on the screen. You’d lost count of the amount of messages and missed calls.

“He’s been trying all night.” You muttered, making the brunet frown.

“All night? Even despite-? You should turn it off, love.” He spoke while the both of you watched the call go to voicemail.

“I can just ignore it.” You sniffled, trying to wipe your eyes. Yet right then, his contact came onto the screen again as he once more called.

While you were ready to ignore however, Price wasn’t as inclined. “Can I?” He questioned, holding out his hand for your phone.

Shrugging you handed it over.

Gently taking it from you, the man turned the screen towards himself. Glaring at it and the contact on it, Price suddenly swiped the green button, answering the call and making your heart lurch into your throat.

“Y/N, I-“

“Listen, mate, you need to stop.” Price interrupted, making your boyfriend halt in his steps.

“Who are you?”

Because your face was pressed to Price’s chest, you could hear every word your boyfriend said, even if a little quiet.

“You think that’s the most important thing right now?” Price scoffed in answer. “You need to stop texting and calling, you’re hurting her.”

“I’ll do as I please, it’s my girlfriend, dude. Now who are you? Why is she with you?”

Almost amazed at the gall of this guy, Price looks down at you, his brows raised and his head shaking in disbelief over how he kept blabbering.

“She’s not your girlfriend anymore.” Price spoke calmly. “She made that quite clear, didn’t she? Now it’s none of your business but I’m her goddamn boss. You hurt her so bad that she’s seeking refuge with her boss. And you think that warrants you still calling her your girlfriend? No, mate.” Price spoke, gripping the phone tighter, his jaw clenched.

“Just send her home to talk.”

“Absolutely not.”

“What’s your problem?!”

“You disrespected and hurt one of my best soldiers. That’s my problem. Now if you can’t treat her right and fill her needs, I sure as shit will. Call this number again and I’m coming over to shut you up personally.”

With that, Price ended the call, placing your phone on the table with a huff.

It took a second before the silence fully set in and Price looked down at you, swallowing. “Sorry, I- uh. I couldn’t have him talk about you anymore.”

He seemed almost embarrassed by practically yelling over the phone at a man he didn’t even know.

“Thank you.” You whispered, the tightness in your chest seeming a little looser before you let out a sigh. “How big do you think the chance is he’s now going to accuse me of cheating?”

“Moderately big.” Price sighed, pulling you up a bit to sit better in his arms. “I don’t know how you dated that asshole for so long, I’m sorry to say it so bluntly.”

Letting out a sigh, you shook your head. “It’s okay, I don’t know either. Just… was too blinded to see it, I guess.”

“Hey, you couldn’t have known he was cheating.” Price speaks softly, tilting your chin up to make you look at him.

You nod, letting out a shuddering breath before tightening your hold on the man as your thoughts raced. “I’m so angry, Price. I just want to do something to get back at him. I thought about beating him up when I- but I decided against it because of legal shit.”

A chuckle rumbled from his chest at that, pleasant against your cheek and you glance up at him. “Probably for the best, though I can understand your want.” He hummed and you sighed.

Looking down again, you shifted a bit before your tongue darted out to moisten your lips. “Price?”

“Hm?”

“What did you mean saying that if he didn’t take care of me, you would?”

At your words, Price froze a bit, his eyes locked on a point across the room, darting a bit as he thought, his body shifting awkwardly.

“Well…” He started. “You deserve someone who loves you. He evidently didn’t.”

Pulling yourself back from his arms, Price instantly brought them down to his sides, crossing his legs and refusing to look at you. Somehow, he’d had the idle hope you wouldn’t read between the lines.

“I’ll go see if we can order some food.” He mumbled, deciding ignoring was the best course of action, yet as he began to move to stand up, you grabbed his wrist and tugged him back down.

Falling into the couch with a grunt, your hand was on his cheek and turning his face within a second, your lips connecting to his.

Shocked, Price stayed still for a second, not knowing what to do before his brain caught up on what was happening.

His left hand shot to the back of your head, tangling into your hair as he pulled you closer, starting to reciprocate the kiss in full, his mouth meshing with yours with no further hesitation.

Your eyes closed, you felt your captain kissing you so eagerly. And you felt more alive than you had in months of your past relationship.

Losing himself in your lips, Price felt his heart hammering in his chest as his right arm curled around your waist, grabbing and lifting you, turning until you were on his lap, making him tilt his head up to keep kissing you.

Shifting your hips, your hands dragged down his chest as you kissed him, the bristles of his muttonchops grazing against your skin in a drag more delicious than anything you’d ever imagined.

Finally, Price pulled back, his breathing heavy and laboured as he looked up at you. “Jesus, love.”

Panting softly, you looked down at Price, seeing his usually bright blue eyes darkened, his pupils wide as he looked at you, an almost adoring look on his face.

“I’m sorry-“ You started, only for Price to move both of his arms to your waist, pulling you in closer, forcing your legs to spread a bit further to accommodate his hips.

“Don’t you apologise.” He warned, leaning in to ghost his lips over your jaw, pressing a little kiss right below your ear. “You and I both know I don’t mind.”

Swallowing nervously, your hands tightened on his shoulders. “Yes but… it’s not right.”

“What’s not right is your boyfriend treating you like shit. You deserve more, sweetheart.” He rasped, shifting his hips a bit, making your eyes widen as you felt something press into you. “Let me make a proposition.” He said softly, one of his hands cupping your chin to make you look at him.

“I’ve seen you staring at me, I know what goes on in that mind of yours. But you were loyal to your boyfriend. That’s good. But he’s your ex now.”

“What are you saying?” You whisper.

At that, Price smirked, running his knuckles down your cheek. “I think you know. You want to get back at him? I can give you that.”

Biting your lip, you looked down, blushing as that left you staring at you sitting on his lap, practically on top of his crotch. “I-“

“Hey.” His voice was suddenly a lot softer as he made you look up at him. “You can say no, yeah? I’m reading between the lines here but if you don’t want this, just say it.” He spoke softly, his arm around your waist shifting to loosely hold onto your hip.

“You’re my boss.” You whisper and Price nods, a little dejected but masking it fairly well.

“I understand. I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable.” He smiled kindly, taking in a deep breath, shifting to sit up to lift you off of his lap, only for your hand to land on his chest and push him back into the couch cushions.

Surprised, Price blinked up at you. “I’m not uncomfortable.” You spoke lowly. “I… want this. But what if we get in trouble?”

Hearing those words, it was like the flip of a switch as he got the green light. Reaching up, he placed his hand on your cheek. “We won’t get in trouble. Because right now I’m not your captain. We’re off duty, there is no ranks here.”

“That’s such semantics.” You whispered and Price chuckled, his hand on your hip starting to wander back, partially splaying onto your ass where he lightly squeezed.

“Semantics is all we need, darling. Tell me you want this.”

Biting your lip, you nodded. “I want this.”

“Good.” Price grinned before leaning in, kissing you.

Wasting no time, he parted his lips, his tongue swiping yours as he asked for entrance, his hips starting to rock into you.

Grunting softly, you opened up, feeling his tongue start to delve into your mouth and explore, his hands wandering up and down your body as he rocked his hips, searching for friction.

Throwing caution to the wind, you began returning in kind. Placing your hands on his shoulders, you started grinding your hips, earning a groan from Price while you kissed, your lips feverishly moving against each other, desperate and needy.

Gripping your hip with his left hand, Price moved his right down your stomach, teasing his shirt that you were wearing up, a little groan leaving him as his palm brushed against his own joggers currently on your hips.

Breaking the kiss, he instantly started kissing down your jaw and to your neck. “Fuck, you look so heavenly in my clothes. It was such a mistake to give it to you.” He panted, his right hand gripping the waistband of your pants. “Wanted to take them off you straight away.

Smiling softly against his hair, you felt him nip at the skin of your neck, his hand grazing your lower stomach making butterflies crash around. “Do you really have such little self-control, sir?” You teased and Price bit down hard on your neck with a groan.

“Told you, there’s no ranks here.”

“You did, but I think you like it, sir.” You grinned and Price tensed beneath you, his hips twitching.

“You’re playing a dangerous game.” He whispered. His hand starting to slip past your waistband, moving into your pants. “I’ll play along.”

Biting your lip, you felt his fingers explore down, rubbing the fabric of your panties, barely grazing your clit.

“Price-“ You whispered, feeling him buck his hips up into you, making you whimper, desperate for more.

“I know.” He hummed, his finger finding your clit, pressing it through the fabric of your panties, making you whine as he started circling his finger on it.

Biting your lip, you tried to push your hand into your pants as well, wanting to move your panties for him but Price stopped you, grabbing your wrist and tutting softly.

“None of that now. I’m taking my time with you.” He whispered, moving his finger down to the seat of your panties now, feeling how damp the fabric was, your slick soaking into it.

Unable to take it, you reached forward and grabbed onto the fabric of his jeans. Unbuttoning it, Price groaned softly, feeling his erection jump.

Carefully reaching in, you bypassed his underwear, feeling him instantly, his length straining against the confinements of his clothing.

Licking your lips, you carefully wrapped your fingers around it, your heart beating a little faster as you felt the width, sitting heavy in your palm.

“Go on, love.” Price encouraged, his breathing a little faster as he felt your hand on him, his own fingers finally pushing the fabric of your panties aside as he instead started running his fingers through your folds, feeling how wet you were.

Shuddering out a breath, you started trying to pull him out, only to stop as Price sunk a finger into you, his mouth on your neck starting to suck little hickeys while he kept encouraging you to continue.

Steeling yourself, you pulled him out, hard and big, making you bite your lip in equal nervousness and excitement.

“You’re so warm.” Price whispered into your ear, slowly thrusting his finger in and out, quickly adding a second, making you groan faintly. “That’s it. My girl.”

Shifting your hips, his fingers dragged through your walls and you started moving your hand up to the tip, using your thumb to rub over his slit, starting to spread his precum.

“Good girl.” Price praised, his teeth grazing your earlobe as he started scissoring his fingers, his palm finding your clit and rubbing into it.

“Hn-“ Suppressing a whine, you held onto the man with your free hand, your eyes closing. “Price, I want you…”

Groaning softly at your admission, Price smiled to himself, kissing under your ear and down your neck, sucking softly every now and then.

“I want you too but I don’t have a condom, love. Didn’t exactly prepare for this.”

“I’m clean.” You whispered, having always used protection with your boyfriend.

“I meant it more for your comfort than mine, sweetheart.” Price rumbled a chuckle. “Don’t want any happy accidents, do we?”

“I’m on birth control.” You whispered, grinding your hips, desperate for friction even as Price continued to softly pump his fingers, scissoring them and caressing your walls.

“Are you sure?” He asked, stifling a groan as you squeezed your hand around him.

“I want you.”

Letting out a little strained huff, Price pulled his head back and kissed you while pushing a third finger into you, gently moving it in and out, stretching you open.

Whimpering in response, your eyes shut as pleasure curled through you, his palm still digging into your clit while he moved his fingers.

“Please-“ You whined again and he couldn’t resist anymore.

Pulling his fingers out, you groaned at the kiss, feeling him retract his hand completely before he lifted you up and quickly turned the both of you around, pushing you down onto the couch while he leaned over you, his hips between your legs still.

“Are you sure, sweetheart?”

Without hesitation, you nodded and Price stuttered out a breath, reaching down to pump himself a few times, purposely using his right hand to spread your slick onto himself, a little groan leaving him.

“Take it off for me, sweetheart, yeah?” He asked, using that time to take his turtleneck off, throwing it over the back of the couch, watching you strip of all your clothes except your underwear.

Pushing his own pants down to his knees, he shifted to lean over you, his hands on either side of your head.

“You’re so pretty for me.” He whispered, his eyes roving your body. “Imagined this so many times and now here you are.” He smiled, leaning in and kissing you, his hand moving down in the meantime, starting to push your panties down your legs, slowly taking them off completely, leaving you bare beneath him.

Panting softly, you looked up, seeing Price hovering over you, his chest covered with hair, leading down to his stomach where it gathered in a point, running down until it flared again into a happy trail.

His cock stood, hard and the tip red, clearly just as needy as you felt.

Seeing you blatantly ogling him, Price smirked, leaning over you again, his right hand grabbing himself as he pressed his tip against your entrance.

“Are you ready, love?” He whispered, starting to glide the head through your folds, smearing your slick onto himself, spreading it.

“Yes, god, please-“ You practically begged, seeing the man’s lip curled up as he then positioned himself by your entrance again before pushing into you.

While he took it slow, your mouth fell open at the stretch, your eyes falling shut as you focused on his cock slowly pushing in.

“There you go, doing so good.” Price whispered, his breathing sped up in excitement as he slid in. You were so wet, making it easy.

About halfway in, he felt resistance and Price groaned. Your walls were wrapped so snugly around him and he carefully pulled out, keeping it slow to keep you comfortable.

“F-Feels good.” You whispered, feeling him slowly thrust in and out, slowly working more and more of himself into you.

“You’re taking me well, love.” Price praised, unable to take his eyes off of the slick coating his cock every time he pulled out, watching his length disappear into you just a second after.

“Sir-“ You whined and Price groaned, pushing in a little harder. Starting to speed up.

“That’s it. My pretty girl.” He gasped, reaching down to start playing with your clit.

“Ah-“ You whined and Price bit his lip, starting to increase his thrusts, watching you take more and more of his cock.

“Come on, take all of me, love.” He encouraged, pushing his hips forward, trying to push past your tight walls before he pulled out until the tip, thrusting back in after, repeating the process and working himself into your heat. “Almost.”

“Price-“ You moaned, the stretch making you gasp as he rubbed your clit.

“I know, I know.” He soothed, pushing his hips forward until finally, his hips were flush with yours, his entire length inside you. “Good girl, fuck-“

Panting, Price gripped your thigh, pulling your leg around his waist. “Please move.” You begged and he nodded, starting to thrust, making sure you were taking him entirely every time.

“You feel so good. So tight.” He praised, leaning down to bite into your neck while his hips moved.

“Price-!” You moaned, throwing your head back while he sped up.

Groaning into your skin, Price fucked into you, his eyes closed as he focused on your tight cunt wrapped around him.

His fingers still played with your clit, making a heat spread through you as you whimpered.

Reaching up, your hands tangled in the hair on the back of his head and you pulled his face up and away from your neck, instead slamming your lips to his, to which he quickly reciprocated.

Thrusting into you, Price’s right hand moved from your thigh to your ass, squeezing it appreciatively while he delved his tongue into your mouth, his other hand moved from your clit to resting on the side of your neck, his thumb splayed around the front of it, making him have a light hold on your throat while he kissed you.

Moaning into his mouth, your toes curled as he worked his cock inside you again and again, your heart pounding as a sheen of sweat started to appear on both your bodies.

Breaking the kiss, Price groaned against your lips, his right hand shifting to rub your clit again, making you clench around him.

“Oh fuck-“ Price moaned ever so softly, speeding up his thrusts as he felt a heat grow, his climax impending.

“Price, sir-“ You whimpered out a moan, Price pushing harder on your clit while he pounded into you fast and deep, making sure to hit all the way inside.

With every thrust into you, his cock hit your G-spot, making your back arch as you felt your walls begin to clench.

“That’s it, good girl. Needed me inside this pussy so bad, huh?” Price panted, his thrusts starting to stutter.

Nodding desperately, you whined out, bucking your hips into his thrusts, making him hit even deeper, the tip of his cock brushing your cervix. “Fuck!” You cried out, causing Price to groan, his hand retreating from your neck to instead hold your hips up, making sure to keep hitting that exact angle over and over and over.

“He didn’t deserve you. Didn’t deserve to taste you, to feel you, to love you.” Price rambled, slowing down though he went rougher, starting to chase his high.

“Price, I’m-“ You cried out, throwing your head back as you felt his thumb push down firmly on your clit, a pressure building up in your abdomen.

“Go ahead.” He groaned. “I’m not far behind.”

Moaning, you sharply arched your back, feeling hum thrust in, your cunt stretched so wide on him while he circled your clit with just the right amount of pressure.

Unable to hold it in, it took just one more thrust for you to fall over the edge. Your orgasm hit hard as you moaned, your eyes forced shut as you clung onto Price, your nails digging into his shoulders while your walls spasmed and clenched around his shaft.

Gasping, Price continued to fuck you through your climax, your cunt tightening repeatedly around him and making him moan.

Releasing your clit, he caught himself with both hands on either side of your head, desperately thrusting into you, feeling your heat and the tightness overwhelming him.

“Fuck, you’re so perfect, so good for me.” He groaned, panting harshly as he thrust a few more times before feeling himself start to twitch.

With a groan, he pulled out, his hand shooting down to rapidly jerk himself, needing just a few strokes before he too was cumming.

Moaning, he released his load onto your stomach and chest, thick, white spurts landing on your skin and pooling in the grooves of your flesh.

Jerking himself a few more times, Price then let go, panting harshly as he opened his eyes, looking down to see you laying beneath him, your eyes hazy, your chest heaving, and your skin painted with his seed.

Trying to catch his breath, Price hovered over you, his eyes glazed as his gaze slowly ran up and down your torso, unable to look away from his cum splattered onto your skin - thick, white and possessive.

“Fuck, I wanna take a picture and send it to that asshole.” He whispered, leaning down to kiss you. “Show him who’s taking care of you now. Taking proper care of you.” There was a slight smile in his voice and you gently kissed back, instantly taking Price with it as he leaned closer, kissing you eagerly.

While the night started terribly for you, neither Price or you would see much sleep before sunrise.

Masterlist to my other fics :)

#john price x reader #captain john price #captain john price x reader #john price #price x reader #captain price smut #cod x reader #john price smut

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mooniechild · 9 months ago

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Some fun stuff that remind me of Columbine

1-the hate list

The hate list is a book about a teenager girl who wrote a hit list along with her boyfriend who guess what?used the list to shoot up their school, and guess what again....He kill himself 🥳 very thoughtful,very mindful of him, anyways I read it recently and it kinda gave me Eric Harris vibes if he actually wasn't obsessed over a video game and could actually touch a woman,that poor tormented soul....

2-love in the time of serial killers

Well basically A LOT of true crime references the zodiac, Bundy and we'll the book she is holding well.....

Seems familiar to me to some reason I can't remember hm......well whatever very good book with a good true crimes references

3- last but not least

Hearth of America,oh GAWWWWD what a goddamn good movie,they have it all,nerds,jocks,weirdos,freaks, drugs....a lot of drugs,and....a blonde druggie girl with a trenchcoat serving Dylan Klebold fem cel butcher,at some point guess what?YAYYYY you got it right she shot up the school 🥳

#school shooters #columbine high massacre #ericharris #dylannstormroof #zero day fanart #mass killers #dylric #dylan and eric #alyssa bustamante

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rumblebat · 2 years ago

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Cell & Frieza were the winners of the poll!! You folks sure know how to pick them! >;3c Please enjoy the story, mind the CW’s, and read at your own risk.

rating: [MA-X] - for a mature audience cw: smut/(n)sfw, threesome, language, slight dub-con, implied fem reader (with gn pronouns), lack of protection, slight breeding kink, frieza reverts back to his 2nd form word count: 2,584

sneak peek: "If you wish to be treated like a slut, so be it, but don't say we didn't warn you..little one.~"

x (you are here) | x | x | x | x | x | x | x

You sat on the couch, sighing and looking around at the other guests at the party. You were invited by Zarbon to join in on the fun. It wasn't like he wanted to invite you, it seemed more like a pity invite. Your eyes rolled as you watched the guest have their fun.

"Why am I even here...?" You mumbled to yourself, leaning back in your seat. The spot next to you filled, causing you to look over. The Lord and Empire of the Universe himself sat beside you. 'What the hell is Lord Frieza doing here?!'. You blinked and looked at him as he drank from his cup.

"Not much of a party person, are you (y/n)?" Frieza asked, looking into his cup. You stared at him. He turned his head, his piercing red eyes looked back at you. "Well?"

You quickly looked away and nodded your head. He was right, you weren't much of a "party person". All you did was do your work, keep your head down, and go back to your quarters to repeat the next day. Frieza watched your body language and chuckled to himself.

"My, aren't you a nervous one? Don't worry, unwind a little. It is a party after all. Not a party for me, but you should still have fun." He hummed and took another sip. You nodded your head and looked back at him. Before you could ask a question, a large shadow loomed over you both.

Frieza's eyes looked up. His nose scrunched at the figure in front of you both. "Cell…" He choked out in disgust, "And what do I owe the unplease..?" The figure chuckled deeply. "No pleasure at all? That's a little rude of you, Frieza?" You looked up, nearly hurting your neck. The figure was an odd one. He looked like a large cicada but had a gorgeous face and pale hands. You couldn't keep your eyes off of him, and he noticed. Cell crouched down and took your hand, gently kissing it. "Well, are you cute enough to eat.." He purred, "I'm Perfect Cell, little one…but you can just call me Cell." He said, his charming yet deep voice almost threw you into a trance.

Frieza clicked his tongue, clearing his throat. "This is my acquaintance that works for me, (y/n). Isn't that right?" You nod, not losing eye contact with Cell. His deep, hungry gaze switched over from you to Frieza. "Oh? And how come they couldn't say their own name??" Cell questioned the smaller tyrant. Frieza smirked, nearly wanting to rip Cell apart. "Maybe if you stop staring at my workers like some kind of five-course meal, they can speak." Cell laughed and nodded his head. "You think that's the reason? Fine." He looked back at you and smiled, "Tell me your name, little one."

You looked at him then back at Frieza. His face was covered in hidden anger. "Go on. Anwser the rouch." Cell growled at the insult, but then quickly changed back to his charming self. "Um…I'm (y/n)." You answered with a warm smile. Cell chuckled and gently rubbed your cheek. "There we go..~" Your breath nearly got stuck in your throat. Frieza leaned over and swatted his hand away. "Enough of that, Cell. Don't you have more people to absorb?" He hissed. Cell chuckled and grabbed your wrist, "Sure, you could say that…and thanks to you, I found the next person I want to taste." He said, looking at you. Quickly, Cell stood up and looked in the direction of Zarbon. "Hey, Zar. I found my closet buddy!" You were completely lost. Closet buddy?

Zarbon walked over and looked down at you, his towering figure along with Cell's was something truly beautiful to look at. Zarbon's face changed and looked at Cell, "Them? Really?" Cell proudly nodded and held you up by your wrist. "Why yes. Is there a problem?" Zarbon scoffed and shook his head, "Of course not… just didn't take you as the type of person to be into lower life forms. You are a kinky bastard." He softly pushed Cell, causing him to chuckle too. "Now, make your way to the closet -" Before Zarbon could finish his sentence, Frieza shot up from his seat. "You aren't taking them, without me!" Cell and Zarbon both looked down at the tyrant. Zarbon was shocked and nearly dropped to the floor. "My Lord, are you…are you serious about this?" Frieza grabbed your other hand and held it up. "I was going to have them in the closet with me when it was my turn. If Cell takes them now, I want them as well." Cell rolled his eyes and huffed. Zarbon looked at all three of you, nodding his head. Of course, he couldn't say no to his boss.

With all the fighting slightly subsiding, Zarbon leads you and the other two to a large closet. "Seven minutes is all you have. Not a minute over…unless Lord Frieza says so." Zarbon nodded down at the smaller alien. Cell nodded quickly and shoved you into the closet. "Yes, yes. Unless the purple brat says otherwise. We get it, now let's get a move on. I'm hungry…~" He hummed, ducking into the closet. His ominous chuckle slightly echos. Frieza cringed at his disgusting wording and sighed. "Zarbon, if I knock twice before the time is up. Open the door." Zarbon blinked and slowly nodded, not understanding the meaning of that.

In the closet, you sat on the floor. Once the door closed, everything was eerily quiet and dark. You looked around, catching a glimpse of Cell's and Frieza's eyes. They both looked at each other, but Cell's was the one that moved closer to you. He held you up and pinned you to the wall, leaning over to gently place soft kisses around your neck. He wasted no time. You, on the other hand, tried to push him away. This was happening way too fast. You grunted and gasped, moaned, and begged for him to slow down. He only chuckled and exhaled against your skin causing you to shudder.

"Frieza never told me you smelled so good when you're scared…~ But there is no reason for that, I won't hurt you or do anything to harm you unless you want me to…~ I'm here to only have fun.~" He growled in his chest, feeling a strong hand touch his shoulder. Once he turned his head, the figure behind him didn't look like Frieza. It looked more like his father, but it was Frieza; just his second form. "You're enjoying yourself too much. You'll ruin your appetite that way.." Frieza's deeper voice shocked you both. Cell smirked and chuckled at the sentence. "Fine, then come and share this with me." Frieza scoffed at the proposal and pulled you away from the wall. Gently placing you against his bigger and broader chest.

Cell continued to kiss along your neck, gently grinding up against you. Your head started to feel light and you nearly yelped when Cell bites down. Frieza growled at this, slowly guiding his hands to your chest. You mewled out, trying to keep quiet. Frieza leaned over to kiss the shell of your ear, "You don't have to be quiet. If they hear you, I'll deal with them…~" He huffed, licking along your ear. You nodded and started to moan softly. Cell looked over at Frieza, who had the same idea in mind. They both nodded and laid you on the ground.

You opened your eyes and looked up, seeing both of these large figures towering over you. You felt so small, weak…yet, you wanted to have both of them. "H-hurry up.." You said softly. They both looked down at you, their eyes seeming to glow brighter once you said that. "I want to..keep going." Cell crouched down to you and cocked his head to the side. "Well, aren't you impatient? Fine, we'll get on with it. Frieza?" He said, looking back up at the larger alien. Frieza chuckled and got on his knees. "I hope you don't mind us both having our way then." You shook your head, signaling that everything was okay for you. Frieza smirked and quickly got to it, taking off your bottoms and undergarments. Cell did the same to your top. Once you lay nude on the floor, Frieza got to work. Quickly placing cold kisses on your thighs, dragging his tongue along them also. You shudder and meet the soft lips of Cell. Frieza raised your legs, pulling you closer to him. He leaned back down, slowly eating you out. You moaned loudly into the kiss, causing Cell to grunt. The sudden spark of pleasure nearly drove you wild. Cell couldn't take much longer of this. He pulled away, gently pawing at this black codpiece, and growled.

"(y/n)." Cell began, and you opened your eyes to see a large member in front of you. "Open your mouth, wide." He panted out. You had no idea where his member came from, but there was no time for that. You opened your mouth, lulling out your tongue. With no warning, Cell shoved his member deep inside your throat. He growled and placed his hand on your throat. "Getting weaker I see?" He cooed, groaning as you clawed and tightened around his member. Frieza watched as Cell rocked his hips against your face. "Give them time to breathe, Cell. They are still my employee." Frieza said through slurps. Cell nodded his head and panted, pulling away from you. You coughed and breathed out, "D-don't worry, If I need to breathe. I'll tap your leg…j-just give it to me please!" You said, hunger filled your eyes. Cell nearly lost it at your words. "If you wish to be treated like a slut, so be it, but don't say we didn't warn you..little one.~" Cell placed a heavy hand on your throat again, jamming his cock back into your mouth. Your muffled cries and moans caused Frieza to lose control. His usual regal and proper attitude was completely out the window.

Quickly, Frieza sat up and huffed. He put his decency to the side and started to stroke his bulging member. Cell chuckled at Frieza, "Don't worry Frieza, we still have a few minutes left…take your time with the dessert.~" The empire didn't listen. His mind was too focused on your smell and the pleasure that coursed through him. He lifted your legs up again and rushed his cock inside of you. You screamed out, Cell hunched over at the sudden pain. You dug your nails into him. "Ah! Damn it!!" Cell growled and moved his hips back before pumping his cock in and out of your throat. "F-Frieza, stop being so damn hard-headed and be careful! You're not the only one doing something here!" Frieza glared up at him, bucking his hips into you, "Why don't you just shut it, Cell? Enjoy them while you can. They're all mine once this idiotic party is over." Cell clicked his tongue and pulled out. He quickly moved you away from Frieza and rolled onto his back, gently laying you on top of him. Your back met with his cool, hard chest.

"Now Frieza," He began, "If you aren't going to properly share your dessert with me, I'll just have to take what I want." Cell said as he started to spread your legs wide. Your face grew a deep shade of red, "Now then, (y/n). You've been awfully quiet, and I find that quite rude." He started as he aimed his cock at your slick opening. "I want you, to tell us what you want.." He said in a gruff whisper. You whimpered and gasped as you were slowly filled, "P…please.." You started, "I..want to cum! I want you both to make me cum!" You cried. Cell chuckled deeply, looking up at Frieza, "I'm sure we can both fit, why don't you join me?~" Frieza's red eyes glowed with lust. He eyed you and glared at Cell, "Fine. I'll join.." He crawled over to you both, caging you between him and Cell. His member rubbed up against Cell and nudged up against you.

You both looked at Frieza, Cell kissed your neck and whispered, "Relax, just let him in. You'll enjoy this, I promise." You gulped and panted heavily. Frieza managed to squeeze inside and howled in slight pain, but soon melted into pleasure. You threw your head back, resting it on Cell's shoulder. "That's it, just give in.~" He huffed and started to buck his hips up. Frieza matched his pace, moaning softly. You were on the verge of screaming out for them to stop, but the pleasure soon started to swarm you. As they both hit your most sensitive spots, you cried out their name. Cell laughed loudly, spreading your legs wider and pounded deeper into you. Frieza hissed and grabbed your ankles, pushing your legs back. You felt like you were being ripped apart. The pleasure started to build up more and more for everyone. Cell panted, turning your head to look at him, "You feel so good. So…perfect. I could eat you up in one fucking bite!~" He growled and grabbed your jaw, wrapping his other arm around your torso. "Speak up, pet. Tell us what you want! Now!" Frieza glared down at you, "Listen to us and we'll give it to you!" He adjusted himself, fixing the position he was in to squat over you. This caused him to go deeper.

Your eyes rolled back, you were nearly there. "F-fuck!! Please!! Just…let me cum!!" You cried out, repeating the word 'please' over and over again. The two men looked at each other through the darkness and nodded. Ramming their raging cocks deeper inside of you, their pace quickened. Cell gave you soft praise while Frieza degraded you, you were in a whirl of emotions and pleasure. "I knew you were a weak slut when I hired you!! You're nothing more than a sick, twisted bitch that needs to be bred!" Frieza roared out, cumming inside of you. He hissed and exhaled through his teeth, riding out his orgasm like a feral animal. He leaned over, letting go of your ankles, and clawed at the walls. Cell chuckled again before letting out a low moan, he leaned over to bite you. You were overstimulated and wailed out, crying and cumming at the same time. Your legs started to shake as you managed to squirt your essence on the tyrant and the android. "Y-yes! Yes!" Cell panted out, pumping his and Frieza's cum deeper in you, "Let go! Give in to your desires!" He kissed your neck and back. You bite your lip, your eyes start to roll back before everything started to fade.

Frieza let out a low groan as he pulled out of you. Cell hummed in delight as he pulled away too, gently placing you on the floor. "Well, that was delicious. Thank you, (y/n), for the meal. I couldn't get enough.~" He said, amused at his work. Frieza, back in his usual form, came over to look at what was done. The entire closet was a mess and it smelled. He scrunched up his nose and looked at Cell, "We should help clean them up. I would hate for our new toy to be any more humiliated." Cell nodded and helped, "Our, lhuh?" Frieza stayed silent and glared as he gently cleaned you. "Don't fucking push it."

**Please do not repost/claim/edit my stories story & title card by @rumblebat character(s) (c) Akira Toriyama tips + commissions | wattpad

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amberjazmyn · 9 months ago

Text

you all came? part two of you can always cry in front of me🫶

pairing : esteban ocon x fem!ocon reader and platonic f1 grid x fem!ocon reader

summary : celine ocon has finally finished up her three years of full time nursing school with her best friend elianna laurent in new york. celine was told that her parents and esteban weren't able to come due to conflicting schedules. that was until they all (including esteban's f1 grid) decided to band together to surprise celine at her graduation. but not before best big brother of the year esteban did of course.

warnings : happy crying, college graduation, older brother x esteban, rest of f1 grid and family, a smidge of swearing

a/n : yes this is part two to the one-shot i just dropped on estie bestie as if this is what i do for a living! if only i got paid for the amount of things i write, i'd probs be a millionaire!

flashback| a week before celine's graduation

celine's lip trembled as her phone dropped into her lap. covering her face with her hands, her body shook as she cried as silently as possible in her empty dorm room. she had just gotten off the phone with her parents, laurent and sabrina back in normandy, france. they were just reconfirming that they were unable to fly over to new york to watch celine graduate because both the f1 singapore grand prix conflicted with celine's graduation ceremony, meaning that her brother couldn't be there either and neither could anyone else but that wasn't the whole reason why she was crying. she had been warned in advance that maybe her parents and esteban weren't able to come due to the said schedules, celine was crying because she had just been told that her grandmere didn't want to come at all, via the phone call she just had with her mum, sabrina. as her last resort almost, sniffling and choking on her tears, celine rang daniel ricciardo to see if maybe he could try to sway the grid, as many of them as possible, to fly over to new york and watch her graduate. she really didn't want to be the only graduate out of 100+ to not have any of her family there to see her get her diploma and throw her grad cap in the air, especially not her parents and brother.

danny ric

"hey cel, what's up? are you okay? you sound like you're crying"

"can-can you-umm, i just got off the phone with mum and she just said that my grandmere can't come to graduation because she doesn't want to because she can't be bothered and she was the last option since mum, dad and estie can't come!"

"oh, cel, i am so sorry hun! please don't cry! i'll make sure to tell estie later and let him know because that is bang out of order! i can't believe she'd react like that!"

"can-are, are you able to at least try and convince just someone over there to let you guys or even just the girlfriends fly over to new york to see me graduate? i'm not upset about mum, dad or estie not being able to come as much because it makes sense but grandmere, that-that hurts so, pl-please say you can come, danny!"

"hun, i am so sorry but i can't! i already tried asking anyone but they said they have tried as best as they can and they weren't able to get any of us on a flight to new york in time. i will however for sure be there at the airport after you come back home to france though. it's just i can't get home and neither can your parents or estie,"

"*crying* that's fine. at least you didn't say it was because you simply didn't care and didn't want to because it's stupid. i'll see you later tonight than at the airport,"

"i am once again so sorry, cel! i love you so, so much, as do the other lads and i'll make sure to have your brother and i shout you out at the race tonight!"

"*tearful giggle* thanks danny, that makes me feel just a tiny bit better. i love you too and i'll see you later!"

"bye, cel!"

"bye danny."

after ending the call with danny, she went back to covering her face, crying herself into a restless sleep. upset over the fact that she was going to be the only graduate without anyone from her family present to see her graduate, even elianna having her entire family flying over, leaving the ocon to fly home alone to then see her family after the graduation whilst the rest of her graduating class partied with their families.

present time | day of graduation

the shock that ran through celine's body as she was woken up by three of her four other roommates, elianna, kamri and kayeleigh (mackenzie, the fourth roommate, was, just like celine, asleep) was the same shock she felt on the day she found out she had actually been accepted into nursing school when she was seventeen. except, this shock was different as this was the day that celine and her four roommates were all graduating nursing school after three long years. celine was turning 20, as were elianna and kamri - kayeleigh and mackenzie, the other two roomies had both turned 21 which made those five girls very young to be graduating from nursing school. it had taken the girls as a collective an entire hour to get ready for their graduation, which in all honesty, was the shortest it had ever taken them to get ready for anything for it would usually take them an hour and a half to get ready for their classes. they had their hair all curled and looking stunning, their makeup looked classy but still simple and nothing crazy, their heels not too high and professional and their outfits were all cohesive with each other. elianna was wearing a white dress that was tight at her bodice but flowed down at the skirt that reached just above her knees, kamri was wearing a two-piece cream set that was very classy but could also be dressed up to the nine's - reaching to her mid-thigh. kayeleigh was, like elianna, wearing a white dress that was a mock neck and reached just above her knees, and mackenzie was, like kamri, wearing a cream dress that was very modest and covered her arms and reached to her kneecaps. and celine, was dressed in a skin-tight white dress that was lace and really showed off her curves but was still classy and modest - not that it was required since all five girls were graduating nursing school.

they also had their robes and the coloured ropes that were going to be worn with the robes and their grad caps. all five girls had designed their caps in different but artistic ways. elianna had decorated hers with a painted normandy, france sunset in homage to her hometown, kayeleigh had hand-sewn a quote that celine had actually said, "you are the only one who can write your story, so write it the way you want it to be written" onto her cap with the english native flower painted on also in homage to her home country. kamri had a taylor swift lyric on her graduation cap saying that "long story short, i survived" with yellow, blue and white flowers that decorated the outside of the cap. mackenzie went full-on ariana grande for her graduation cap saying "thank u, next!" and celine, on her graduation cap, paid homage to the two most important men in her life; her brother esteban and best friend danny ric. she paid homage to her brother with a painted white feather that he had gave to her when they were much younger. and then, to pay homage to her best friend, she included daniel's famous "enjoy the butterflies, enjoy being naive" quote right next to the handpainted white feather.

"cel, can you believe it? we're finally graduating and about to turn 20 all in these next few days!" elianna calmly spoke as she had come up behind the ocon and wrapped her arms loosely around her shoulders as celine smiled as she reciprocated the behind-over-the-shoulder hug "it is crazy to believe, elianna but, yes, i can believe that we're graduating and then, you and kamri are turning 20!" celine giggled as she had to bend down quickly to fix her heels, both girls giggled as they both nearly lost their balance, elianna still behind her and hugging the girl the two girls were giggling messes as celine tried to fix her shoes whilst still trying to stay in the hug with elianna and not have the both of them faceplant to the ground and ruin their outfits, hair and makeup. five minutes later, they were needing to leave however, it was obvious to both of them that they hadn't realised how much time had passed, that was until mackenzie, the eldest of the five girls walked over to the two girls to let them know. "yo, elianna, cel, you girls ready? we gotta get going, we have our graduation to attend!" mackenzie smiled, speaking with a small giggle as she popped her head into the door of the lounge room, wondering where the two girls were, only to find them in a very strange position "we're ready kenz, we-we're just fixing my heels quickly!" celine tried to say normally but failed too as giggles quickly fell out of her mouth as she realized the very awkward and concerning position she and elianna were in "o...kay cel, one more minute and then we really gotta go, okay?" mackenzie giggled as the two french girls giggled but nodded their heads as they fixed up celine's heel and stood up, separating as they ran out of the lounge room before mackenzie could leave mackenzie just laughed as she shook her head, trying to remove the image of the way she saw her two best friends and roommates so close together out of her mind. as she then followed the two girls to the limo in which kamri and kayeleigh were already waiting for the other three girls in. "finally, you three! thought that we were gonna be late, what took you three so long? having a threesome without us?" kamri giggled with shock for dramatic value which caused the other girls to snicker

this then caused kamri to become confused, thinking they really did have a threesome. mackenzie just shook her head which kamri then understood as no threesome and to just let it go as mackenzie knew that it was something that was just between the two frenchies. and if it was explained to anyone else, it would make zero sense. "what did you two do, actually have a threesome like kam suggested? y'all crazies!" kayeleigh giggled as she sat down next to elianna and celine as the three girls chuckled, kamri and mackenzie in hysterics as well at their best friends "oh my god, eww, no! there were no threesomes or twosomes, kayeleigh, just had a little trouble with my heel that's all..." celine snickered quietly which caused kayeleigh to nod her head, understanding completely despite not needing the information as to what elianna had done in the situation kamri and mackenzie didn't bother to ask for any explanations and, it was a good idea not to as it was obvious to them that, that was an inside joke between the two french girls and the english girl and they were completely fine with it. because kamri and mackenzie had inside jokes with those girls and with each other too and that the other three didn't need to know and vice versa. all five girls had inside jokes between each other that were just for them and that was okay.

🍀 elianna, kamri, kayeleigh and mackenzie had all already graduated and had been given their diplomas all except for celine. usually, the graduates would be given their diplomas in alphabetical order by their last name, however, for this graduation, they were doing it alphabetically by first name which was strange and it confused celine because all the "c" first names and "o" last names had been called and given their graduation diplomas. however, soon, she was going to understand why she was getting her diploma last even though all the other graduates whose first names started with the letter "c" had all gotten their diplomas before her. her dad, mum, esteban and the rest of her f1 family had all flown from singapore to surprise her at her university graduation. they all had committed to surprising their daughter, best friend and sister at her university graduation all the way in new york, nyc just so they could surprise her after esteban surprises her by being the one giving her her diploma. "what is going on?" celine gritted through her teeth to elianna, kamri, kayeleigh and mackenzie as they all had graduated but her "i don't know cel but, i'm sure you'll get called up soon, may...maybe they misplaced your diploma?" elianna thought, shrugging her shoulders as they knew how agitated and nervous their best friend had been about the graduation day only for this to happen "that's all they better have done otherwise i swear to god! i'm not doing another year at nursing school, no fucking way, just because they lost my diploma!" celine was getting mad and agitated which made her best friends a little agitated and annoyed "it'll be fine cel, i promise! they wouldn't just not let you graduate, look at the ropes on your robe for fuck sake! you're a high distinction student here, you are going to graduate tonight babe!" elianna and kamri soothed their best friend, each of them grabbing one of ocon's sweaty, shaky hands as she nodded her head, just hoping her best friends were all right and that soon she'd be getting called up to collect her degree "it'll all be okay cel, just breathe baby, just breathe," kamri whispered as cel nodded her head as elianna then spoke up again, noticing what looked like celine's older brother esteban on the stage with her diploma as the childhood best friend of celine smiled "i think they've found your diploma cel, you'll get called up soon!" elianna smiled as she made eye contact with esteban who gave her a small notion for her to stay quiet, which she did as celine let out a breath "really? thank the lord!" celine whispered as her friends giggled softly as they saw their friend's anxiety slip away the dean of the nursing school had walked back up to the lecturn mic after previously walking away to "find celine's lost diploma" to then announce her in front of everyone else who had already graduated. "....so incredibly sorry about the wait everyone, we've finally found the lost diploma so if miss celine marie ocon could come up to the stage, we'd like to give her her diploma!" the dean spoke with a smile as celine smiled to the floor as the auditorium filled with screams for the girl who was top of her graduating class (just like when she was at high school back home in france), her girlfriends all encouraging her to go up the ocon girl giggled as her cheeks went red and were boiling hot as she went up to grab her diploma and thank the dean. that was until she realised she hadn't been given her diploma by the dean, but by someone who was not wearing the correct clothes to be handing out diplomas at a university graduation... stepping back a few steps in confusion, celine couldn't figure out who it was that had given her her diploma, that was until she looked up to see the persons face.

her brother esteban had given celine her diploma. due to the way celine hadn't really been actually paying attention or looking as to who had given her the diploma, she was confused as to why everyone was screaming and freaking out, when she actually looked up. she squealed out in shock that her brother had attended the graduation that no one in their family could attend.

"estie!" celine squealed as she then ran over as he smiled, opening arms up for his sister who quickly jumped into his embrace as the auditorium once again erupted into cheers for the brother and sister reunion

breaking down into tears as she squealed and got picked up, celine couldn't believe that her brother had surprised her let alone was able to find time within the f1 grand prix schedule to even take the flight over to new york for the graduation. she, to be fair, blocked out and forgot about the phone call she had made to daniel, a week before, crying that no one in their family was able to fly over and the fact that all she wanted was someone from her family to be at her university graduation after they had all shown up for her high school graduation. however, not once did celine think that she'd have a surprise like this. she felt like her brother had just come back from a military enlistment when really, he had just travelled almost a full 24 hours by plane from singapore to new york to see his baby sister graduate from university.

"estie, what are you doing here?" the sister sniffled into her brother's chest as he snickered cheekily

"to surprise you, cel! i know how it devastated you the most when grandmere shot you down like that when she said coming to see you graduate wasn't worth it. i am also sorry that mum, dad and i couldn't come either and i may have had to lie in saying that danny and the officials with f1 wasn't able to figure something out so you thought i couldn't come either. they were able to figure something out so, i have one more surprise for you after this ceremony so, the sooner we get this done, the sooner we'll get back home and we get to catch up?" esteban smiled into his sister's hair as celine's body relaxed as she then realised (after the excitement of performing on stage in ireland with her brother moments after graduating) that this entire "loss/misplacement of the diploma" was all an act to distract her from esteban's surprise

"huh, so, they really hadn't lost my diploma then? they just wanted a distraction to get you on the stage so you could be there ready waiting for me to get it?" celine was a smart girl, she really was as esteban giggled, slightly nodding his head

"how did you know, thought that we were quite subtle about it in all honesty, you looked quite worried and as if you had no clue that it was all an act," esteban chuckled as the brother and sister pulled back as celine rolled her eyes

"you were subtle, i only just figured it out just then, it really was quite smart and thought out," celine sneered as they then had to be quick so they could finish the ceremony and do the throwing of the grad caps

"why thank you, little sister, our plan was to be subtle!" esteban smiled as the brother and sister then posed for the photo with the dean and headmaster as she was then allowed to walk off stage with her brother

"congratulations on graduating, celine and, thank you so much to her older brother esteban ocon for helping us with this surprise. esteban is a formula one driver from normandy, france. the brother and sister live inbetween france and switzerland, however, celine came here to study rather than stay in france or europe." the dean spoke with the proudest smile in her voice ever - she finally had the celebrity student she had dreamt of and it was celine ocon

celine and esteban had made it off stage and hugged quickly before he rushed back to his seat which was a little sus for celine but, she understood as she then went back to her seat as well. so they could finish the ceremony and do the ever-so-poplar gesture that they do in all the teenage movies which was the throwing of the graduation caps.

"now that every graduate has been given their diploma, it is my absolute pleasure to say that, the class of 2022 has graduated!" the dean spoke as the entire graduating class squealed, throwing their grad caps in the air just like every teenage movie depicts, the students all then trying to catch it so they didn't lose them - celine, elianna, kamri, kayeleigh and mackenzie catching theirs perfectly

now that the ceremony was over and celine, elianna, kamri, kayeleigh and mackenzie had all graduated, they all had an emotional, tearful moment as a group. this was maybe the last time the five of them were all going to be in the same spot together since celine, elianna and kayeleigh were all going back to france and england whereas kamri and mackenzie were staying in new york, nyc.

"i love you girls, i really do! cel, elli and kaye, promise kenz and me that you'll come back to new york and visit us, okay? i refuse to let this be the last time we see each other, okay?" kamri was firm but emotional but the girls agreed

"we promise kamri, we'll fly over to visit you two soon!" celine spoke with a big smile and teary eyes as kamri and mackenzie nodded their heads, trusting the two frenchies and english girl that they were going to keep their world

"even if it's ages until we see you again because of f1 and travels, we'll stay patient because it'll be worth it, motorsports girly!" mackenzie teased, teasingly shoving celine as she giggles, trying to keep her tears at bay

"oh shush, kenzie, i'm still student nurse celine ocon, no matter what. just, by night, cause in the daytime i'm a woman in motorsport," celine giggles, making her friends laugh as well

"at least you're not a university student anymore as to however would you be celine ocon with the schedule you had here at nursing school," kamri chuckled emotionally which made celine giggle as well as they made fun of their university

"that is true! i wouldn't be celine ocon at all so, good thing i'm a woman in motorsport instead of a completely traumatized, exhausted uni student," celine giggled as she then felt a tap on her shoulder which made her turn around as kamri, kayeleigh and elianna looked in shock at who was in front of them, except celine as she had turned around before mackenzie

"hey...oh my gosh! daniel! what are you doing here?!" celine squealed, her hand on top of her cap so it didn't fall, the hand that she thought was her brother's wasn't, it was her brother's former teammate and her best friend daniel ricciardo's hand as he smiled brightly, pulling his best friend in for a hug

"same reason as everyone else..." daniel winked as when the two of them pulled out of the hug, daniel stepped off to the side to reveal the rest of most of the f1 grid and their partners, celine in complete shock

"...what the crap? why are you all here?! didn't you have a grand prix that you obviously couldn't get out of?!" celine squealed as she went through all of the f1 grid, and their partners, flavy being her last hug as she pulled away

"we couldn't miss out on your graduation, especially after hearing the news about you and esteban's grandmother not being available even though she was. we didn't think it was fair that you didn't have anyone here so, your brother came up with the entire thing and, he's also got one last surprise for you as well," flavy smiled and gave celine a wink, just like daniel which caused the girl to respond exasperatedly

"what other surprises does estie need to give me? he's done everything! he came to my graduation, and you guys did too, what else is he surprising me with?" celine giggled in shock as the sound of a female voice got her to turn around to where she thought her best friends were

"come on now, did you really think your brother wouldn't tell your parents and cousins that you've graduated university and that we'd miss it? you've clearly haven't been with your family in ages!" the one person that sounded like that was sabrina, her mum

this caused celine to turn her head and body straight away to see that in fact, it was her mum, jodi talking with her dad laurent and three cousins, elijah, alessandra and madelyne behind her. they all had come to see her graduate. they all wanted to surprise their graduate because she didn't deserve to not have anyone there to celebrate with her.

"mum, dad!" the girl squealed out in excitement, shock and surprise, celine was truly in awe of how much her brother had done for her just so she wasn't alone and didn't feel bad because no one in her family could attend her uni graduation whilst everyone else in her class did

they ran over to each other as sabrina chuckled at her daughter's reaction. the last time the mother, father, daughter and cousins had seen each other was at least four months ago. which was when celine had surprised them during a small two-week holiday she had been given from uni.

"we couldn't let you be on your own for your uni graduation. we all knew that elianna, kamri, kayeleigh and mackenzie all had their families coming and had planned celebrations that they were going to be having so, we knew that we had to do it for you to make up for your grandmere not being available. no one deserves to be alone to celebrate their uni graduation," sabrina smiled as celine smiled back, she was truly taken aback, they had all shown up because her grandmere couldn't be bothered

"thank you, mum, thank you dad, thank you so much!" she thanked profusely as she then went down the line of her dad and three cousins and all gave them hugs, elijah her last hug as she picked him up

"just like your mum said, we showed up because no one else did and would have. it's upsetting that your grandmere is too lazy to even try. i was honestly so mad when daniel told me that grandmere was "wasting her time" by flying over for your graduation. because you deserve to be surprised and celebrated because you are so talented and intelligent for dropping everything to study out of home," laurent spoke protectively towards his daughter who smiled at her dad

"awe, dad, thank you! that was very sweet of you!" celine had no idea how to feel, she truly didn't, she was just ecstatic that she graduated but the fact that her dad, mum, brother, her cousins and f1 family all joined forces to surprise her

all for the fact that they didn't want her celebrating this huge achievement on her own. her graduation meaning the world to her and more.

"so, what do you say we do student nurse celine ocon?" max verstappen smiled, his arms crossed as celine blushed and looked down at the ground

"i say we get the heck out of new york, i can't be here any longer. i say we go to singapore because i just realised that the race is this week, you guys just told me the race was on the wrong day! so, i say we catch a red-eye back and then we, i don't know, go and watch a formula one race! student nurse celine ocon needs to have a little bit of a rest for a bit i think," celine smirked as max hummed in agreement as the rest of the family giggled at celine's sass

"alright then, it's decided, red-eye back to singapore and back to what we do best as a group and family!" esteban calls out as celine smiles as the group cheers

turning around, celine catches eyes with kamri and mackenzie and they nod their heads, giving their two best friends the permission that it was okay for them to leave and that they'd see each other again soon

"okay then, let's go!" celine cheers as kamri and mackenzie pull her, elianna and kayeleigh in for a hug which then prompted everyone else to join the hug as giggles followed after

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20ish hours later and celine, elianna, kayeleigh and the f1 grid family were back in france after the singapore gp, kayeleigh back in england. they all relaxed and allowed it to sink in everything that had just happened before a notification from esteban had pinged on everyone's phones. he had posted an instagram post in celebration of his sister's university graduation, giving everyone deja vu back to his high school graduation post for celine three years earlier.

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estebanocon feels like just yesterday that i posted about your high school graduation cel but, now you've graduated from nursing school and have a degree in nursing. that's bloody freaking cool! i am so proud of you celine and i don't think there are enough words to describe it. you worked so incredibly hard to get this degree and i am so proud that my baby sister has a university degree. you were ever so dedicated to your studies, even when you had to come home due to the pandemic and had to do online learning, you still refused to give up and made sure to keep on top of your studies. even though you couldn't be in nyc for almost a full year due to the virus and had every reason to stress out and want to give up, you never did, you kept your head screwed on right and you even helped the cousins when they were doing homeschooling during the pandemic. i am of course devastated and disappointed in our grandmere for not attending, i'm forever grateful that me and the f1 family were able to fly over to new york to surprise you for your graduation. seeing your reaction and the look on your face when you noticed it was me that was holding your diploma and that it hadn't actually been lost was everything to me and more. but the icing on the cake was for sure the reaction when you saw everyone else but especially mum, dad and the cousins. it had been a stressful day for you and the other four girls but just seeing how you physically relaxed when you saw us and realised that you weren't actually alone for your graduation really melted my heart. it made my heart burst to see you slowly realise that you weren't actually going to be alone for your graduation.

i know i keep on repeating myself but we are truly so proud of you cel for graduating from nursing school and for wanting to pursue healthcare whilst also supporting me in motorsport. we are so proud of you for getting the university education despite the fact you didn't have to, you still wanted to give yourself that feeling of something normal. i love you so much celine and it's now time to truly see you come alive as a nurse and not just the sister of formula one driver esteban ocon.

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celineocon estie you are the best in the whole world and i'm not exaggerating. you made an effort because grandmere didn't even try to bother. you knew how hurt i was in knowing that i wouldn't be seeing my family at my graduation and being proud of me so, you came and surprised me with the whole family, the grid, mum, dad and the cousins to let me know that you were always here even if grandmere wasn't. i love you so much!

danielricciardo i am so proud of you celine! watching you receive your diploma and getting surprised by your brother was the best and most heartwarming thing ever. especially after hearing you ring me in hysterics over the thought of you not having anyone see you graduate.

eliannalaurent this was the most thought-out and best surprise you could have ever done for your sister, estie! kamri, kayeleigh, mackenzie and i were so sad and disappointed to hear that your guys' grandmere couldn't be bothered to come to the graduation. but, the effort the lot of you put in and what you actually did will always outweigh what she didn't do. what you and the rest of the f1 family did is something that celine is never ever going to forget and that's a powerful thing!

kamrinoelle this is still the best thing that i've ever witnessed this whole entire year!

maxverstappen1 so glad to have helped in this surprise for celine! you really did plan it perfectly esteban x

flavy.barla wish i could have frozen time the moment that celine realised it was you that handed her the diploma however, the one photo i could take of the moment is one i'm going to cherish forever.

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celineocon hmm, what do we think, a classy nursing student graduate celine ocon?

yesterday (since it's the day after in france), me and my best friends elianna, kamri, kayeleigh and mackenzie along with the rest of our cohort graduated from nursing school this year. finally being back home in france at circuit paul ricard after going back to new york after the pandemic had me going between new york and home for what felt like an eternity has been insane. i was walking into my graduation sadder than happier like i thought i would be because i knew that i wouldn't have my parents, my brother and cousins coming due to what i thought was the singapore grand prix and not being able to get school off to fly up and those i was okay with because it was fair and it wasn't something i got too mad or upset over. but, hearing my grandmere say that she wasn't coming because she "simply didn't care" and "didn't think it was important" was heartbreaking and genuinely was something i cried about to danielricciardo over the phone a week before yesterday because i didn't want to tell mum, dad or estie about it. i can't lie and say it didn't hurt, hearing my own grandmother say that she didn't have a valid reason for not coming other than she didn't care and that it was a waste of time nor that it was important because it wasn't as exciting as watching estie race because it did hurt. it hurt like hell and like mentioned before, i cried to daniel over the phone over it and then fell asleep crying some more because grandmere always supported me. this then had me going into my graduation with no one from my family able to come. i did, however, get some laughter with elianna when i had to fix up my heel and she was hugging me from behind, however, that still didn't fix the fact that i was the only one out of all of the 100+ graduates that didn't have anyone from my family come and see me graduate. i was still sad going into what was supposed to be a day of celebration because whilst my best friends, minus elianna and kayeleigh, were going to have parties with their families, i wasn't. i was going to be flying back to france with elianna, kayeleigh flying back to england, from new york to then see my family after the fact after the singapore race.

that was until they surprised me at graduation. my whole family had made a plan they were going to pretend that they had misplaced/lost my diploma. which meant that instead of getting my diploma with the rest of the students whose first names started with "c", i would be getting my diploma last. it truly was a fantastic plan because, by the time they had "found" my diploma and called my name up, the person who had given me my diploma was none other than my brother, esteban. but, that wasn't all he had done. he had also brought up the whole family. including mum, dad, our cousins and the f1 grid and they had been there in the auditorium as i graduated. because no, estie couldn't just surprise me at my graduation with just himself. he, of course, had to go above and beyond and also bring over the rest of the huge family because he didn't want me to celebrate my graduation on my own and without any family. and also because they had tricked me into thinking that the singapore grand prix was on the same day as my graduation when it wasn't.

in regards to these three photos, the second and third were used in the graduation ceremony. the first one was taken by me and it was on my last day of classes and i just think it was a cute photo. the second one was taken by mr daniel ricciardo and it's one of my fave photos ever. the third one is from a university ball that everyone in my degree was invited to and i channelled my inner miss sparkle mermaid for that evening. whilst i am now officially a student nurse with a degree, that doesn't mean that i'm no longer travelling with formula one and estie. if anything, it'll be the nursing that's getting put on a cheeky little break for a bit whilst i focus on esteban and the motorsports world. for three-ish years, i was having to study everything in healthcare and more all at the same time and honestly, it was insane. especially when the pandemic hit and i had to travel 6hrs back home and study remotely. but, i somehow never failed any of my classes or any practicals i had to make. i'm now back in france with my family to focus wholeheartedly on motorsports until i feel ready to become a resident student nurse in a hospital

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estebanocon i am so proud of you cel! you make me the happiest brother in the whole world and next time grandmere comes over, remind her what her health was like during the years she was a kid with your degree...

celineocon estebanocon estie, you make me the happiest sister in the world and you know i wouldn't do that to grandmere!

flavy.barla i am beyond proud cel. i have no other words that could possibly explain how proud i am of you. the whole family are also so proud of you and are so glad they were able to come and watch you graduate

celineocon flavy.barla thanks, flavy! i'm glad i made you and the family proud

eliannalaurent i am so proud to say i got to graduate with my bestest friend in the whole entire universe! today was amazing and i am so glad we got to spend it together

celineocon eliannalaurent i was going to say the same thing! it was absolutely amazing being able to do university together

kamrinoelle i miss you already cel! it was so much fun being your uni roomie with elianna, kayeleigh and mackenzie! next time kenz and i will visit you, elianna and kayeleigh in ireland!

celineocon kamrinoelle i miss you too kamri! and you better, i'll let elianna and kayeleigh know and we'll get kaye up to france!

danielricciardo you are an amazingly intelligent young girl, cel and i am so glad i was able to see you graduate. i love you so much and i am so proud of you but that doesn't mean i'm still mad that you left europe because i still am! i'm just now a lot happier that you're back home!

celineocon danielricciardo oh, danny thank you! and i'm sorry that i left france and europe as a whole! besides, last time i checked, it was you, charles and mick that dared me to apply for nursing school in nyc! but i'm also happier to be back home as well!

kellypiquet i am so proud of you my love! watching you receive that diploma will always be in my top memories of watching you grow up!

celineocon kellypiquet awe thank you kelly! getting my diploma will always be a proud moment for me as well as a core memory!

maxverstappen1 and i am still crying hours later! you should be so proud of yourself cel, you worked so damn hard to get this degree!

celineocon maxverstappen1 crybaby! nah, jokes max, thanks for being so supportive throughout the whole thing, you have really been most helpful!

fin

ok i lied, i wasn't going to let this day finish without me getting my cheeky two-part estie bestie one-shot out! i know the 'grandmother' thing not going to the graduation just came out of nowhere but it made sense in my head for the storyline lol. i have so many drafts by the way like, thirteen i think, so hopefully i'll be able to get all of those out soon! especially those that were requested that i still haven't finished which i still will apologise for cause i feel awful for how long the requests are taking!

#formula one #fluff #a little bit of angst #esteban ocon #f1 grid x platonic fem!ocon reader

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