#finding her work in hq is a chore

[lesuccube]

➚ 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐄𝐑 : ᴍɪɢᴜᴇʟ ᴏ'ʜᴀʀᴀ — ᴍɪɢᴜᴇʟɪᴛᴏ

𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒 — life with an itsy bitsy spider except he's not so itsy bitsy and he's not as venomous as most people think .

𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 — fluff infection

𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 — not beta'd , constructive criticism is welcomed . reblogs and comments are appreciated .

𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃 𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓 — 2.8k

let's say that you and miguel have been together for a good year already. you're past the honeymoon phase but you're comfortable and still love each other the way you did the first few months.

you've practically all but moved in with miguel at this point, most of your stuff are already with him and you only visit your own apartment if you happen to forget something that isn't already with him (after refusing miguel's 6th attempt to persuade you to let him buy it instead of going back for it).

whenever you two find the time to be with each other, you often take naps together. nobody is big spoon or small spoon between you. miguel makes you lay on top of him like a weighted blanket. he feels reassured that you're still alive and around with your breathing on his shoulder and your steady heartbeat matching his own.

he likes to sprawl a hand on your back under your shirt like this, just tracing lazy patterns on your skin. on the times you manage to slip away from his hold to grab a glass of water in the kitchen, he would stroll in after you still half asleep, gruff voice pleading you to come back to bed with him even if you were planning on doing just that.

the man would wake up the moment the pressure of your body on top of his is gone.

OR sometimes on his rare off days, he'd spend the whole day asleep. one time you catch him lying on his stomach in nothing but sweats, his top shirtless exposing the large expanse of his shoulders and back to you.

you just finished doing whatever chore you had for the day before you had decided to just... plop yourself on his back, cheek pressed between his shoulder blades. miguel then wakes up hours later when the sun has set but unable to get up due to a weight on his back. he turns his head around and finds your body nestled comfortably on top of him, still sound asleep.

it doesn't matter if he was starving at that point, he wouldn't dare wake you up.

you try not to mix yourself up much with his job since you know it can get dangerous but when miguel gets too clingy and refuses to go to hq for the day, he'll take you with him!

in the movie we see him standing on his platform but in this case, he rolls out a chair that he can sit on so you can sit on his lap while he works. he claims that it helps him focus better when you're there, playing with the ends of his hair on the back of his head or peppering the exposed skin of his neck with featherlight kisses that he responds to with a hum and a deep press of his lips on the side of your head.

this in turn gives lyla the freedom to take so much pictures of him being clingy, literally waits outside the bathroom stalls for you when you need the loo, and when you exit he asks if you washed your hands after, you tell him yes and then holds your hand to lead you back to his "office."

lyla teases him endlessly about it when he comes back the next day alone.

you treat lyla like she's one of your girlfriends, gossiping about things outside the spider society and in return, she would tell you all the tea in hq.

and now that you two have bonded, miguel groans and ribs his forehead because that means lyla gets all the new details about miguel's private life that she uses against him on the worst opportunities but he won't be able to tell her off when you're there because miguel would never want to make you mad.

there was one time to woke up with a start in your shared bed with miguel, a nightmare of miguel's body limp and cold on nueva york's streets and if course it freaks you out. being spider-man was dangerous and it meant having lots of enemies whether they're superpowered or not.

miguel woke up and saw you panting with your head buried in your raised knees. he would wordlessly pull you into an embrace before singing you a lullaby to help to fall back asleep.

date nights with miguel are as rare as his day offs, maybe even more so since he prefers to stay indoors to rest and recuperate. on the times he does take you out, he makes sure it's fancy and extravagant as a way to make up for the lack of nights like this where you'd enjoy candlelit dinner in a popular italian restaurant on nueva york's more posh streets.

getting ready for said date, you'd wear this jaw dropping blue dress that matches the color of his suit paired with your favorite red bottom heels and the pearl set accessories he'd gifted you on your six months anniversary. you'd exit the bathroom back into your shared bedroom where miguel was waiting for you in a fancy tux himself and he'd stop whatever it was he was doing just to stare at you with lovesick eyes.

you'd flash him a pretty smile before turning around, asking him to zip you up. he'd brush your hair aside, the tips of his fingers grazing against your nape. he'd pinch the tiny metal between his thumb and index finger and slowly drag it up, kissing your neck softly when it's zipped all the way up.

OR sometimes after these aforementioned date nights when you would return home with full bellies and wine tasting lips, you'd huff and take a seat on the couch, legs straightened before you as you groaned, head tilting back to rest on the back of the couch. miguel promptly follows you, kneeling in front of you and taking in the sight of you, all tired and lazy but still so so beautiful nonetheless.

he'd take a foot and place it on his leg, not minding the way your heels would leave a bit of a dusty print on his dark trousers. he kisses the length of your calf as his hands take off your heels, resulting another groan from you but this time in relief. it spurs him on, stroking his ego the way a simple act of taking your shoes off elicits such a reaction from you.

he does the same to your other leg and it usually ends up with him making out with you on the couch, you still seated at the edge while he kneels in front of you, hands gripping your small waist and your own mussing up his styled hair for the night, teeth nipping at each other's skin and lips until you're both red and panting.

he likes to give you kisses. one of his biggest love languages is definitely physical touch. just feeling your warmth under his lips as he presses random kisses on you throughout the day.

you'd wake up with a peck on your forehead, followed by a kid to the top of your nose as to hand him his coffee. when he finds you seated on the couch and reading a book, he'd give you what he likes to call 'drive by kisses' on your cheek as he walks past you.

in general, lots of kisses by miguel. but i think one of his favorite places to kiss you (side from your lips) is the inside of your wrist where he can feel your heartbeat pulsing as he brushes his lips against the skin repeatedly.

when it rains, miguel would complain and grumble under his breath at how wet it becomes because you'd pro a window open to let some rainy breeze in, the sounds of raindrops against glass intensified.

he would act like a grump at first before settling next to you on the couch, propping your feet up on his lap as he browses on his work on his tablet, one hand occasionally massaging your sock-clad feet as you lay there either scrolling aimlessly on your phone or reading a book.

nueva york is a city of progress so it's mostly skyscrapers and tall buildings. one time you expressed that you wanted to be able to see the stars and you can't do that here at home since the city lights always outshine them. and what did miguel do?

he took you to a different dimension, one where it's mostly nature and the stars twinkle so brightly it feels like you'd reach them if you stretch a hand out.

it's one of the rare times miguel lets you travel with him to a different dimension. he only does it to see that absolutely dazzling smile on your face, the way you quite literally lit up as you tugged his arm, pointing at a certain constellation and talking his ear off about the story behind it even if it's not exactly accurate or scientifically or canonically correct.

miguel won't tell you that, instead he'll just stare at you the whole time with the most dopey lovesick look ever i'm talking hearts in his eyes and the softest smile on his lips. and when you finally turn to face him, he's been staring at you the whole time.

sometimes his work isn't always stored in some tech like his laptop or tablet. he's old-fashioned, writing stuff down until he comes home with a bunch of papers and files.

he has an office in his apartment so he ends up just dumping them there and eventually forgetting them. so when the day comes and you're cleaning the place up, you find his office in complete disarray. i'm talking about piles and piles of paperwork on his desk, books not tucked in the shelf and his blinds drawn leaving little to no natural light in the room.

you clicked your tongue, pulling the vacuum inside. but first, you snap a pic of the office to miguel and sending it with the caption 'you live like a goddamn toddler 🗑️' yes emoji included because the whole room can be compared to a dumpster.

you clean the place, vacuuming the floors, rearranging his shelf and dusting the whole place until the only thing left to fix was his desk.

you'd grumble under your breath while working because you're sure you spent an hour and a half already with just miguel's office and you were losing daylight quickly when you still have two other rooms to clean. you were shuffling the papers and sorting them by the date stamped on the corner of each page when one paper stands out to you. it's colored a baby pink and written in miguel's scrawly penmanship.

at first you think nothing of it until its contents catch your eyes do you realize it's a love letter. addressed to you. it makes you swoon of course. miguel loves giving you letters, handing you quite a few throughout your relationship especially during important milestones in your lives but these? these were unsent letters he had written to you.

you continue to fix up his files and you see more and more of these oddly colored papers throughout the pile, in between folders and stapled papers were various love letters written in multiple shades of pastels. sometimes it's just one page, others would consist of at least three. it's sweet and really endearing but you don't read them. there was a reason miguel didn't give them to you after all.

you simply compiled all the letters you've found before tucking them in a drawer on his desk. knowing that he had done those was filling enough for your heart. it was enough to bloom warmth on the apples of your cheeks and giggle at how much of a sap your boyfriend was. but he's your sap and you won't have it any other way.

on the fourth month of your relationship with miguel did you stumble upon the knowledge that miguel cannot cook for the life of him. he tried to make you toast once and ended up burning both the bread and your toaster. since then you've banned miguel from cooking in both your place and his.

that means you are always on kitchen duty, greeting miguel when he comes home to you after work with a kiss and freshly cooked dinner. but on the rare occasions he surprises you by coming home early, he'd offer a helping hand while you prep dinner.

you were skeptical of course, having flashbacks of his toaster fiasco, but his pouty lips were making it hard for you to say no. so you ended up giving in, instructing him on what to do. you leave him be for a few minutes before he's calling after you like

"um... mi amor, is the sauce supposed to look like this?" miguel asks, tapping you hesitantly on your shoulder. your eyes practically bulge out of your skull at the purple colored pasta sauce you had told him to stir. how did he make red tomato sauce into that?

"miguel, baby, did you do something while i wasn't looking..?" he shakes his head, not saying that he was only stirring the pot like you said.

in the end you had to shoo him out, instead making him sit his too large frame on the tiny island chairs as you redo the sauce, pushing back dinner for another half hour because he had mysteriously managed to turn your completely normal sauce purple.

you kiss his lips though and tell him you appreciate the gesture but leave the cooking to you from this point onwards. you do tell him that he can just help you with grocery shopping, saying that his senses would come in handy with picking out fresher veggies and fruits.

OR you decided one day when miguel didn't need to come to hq and was working from home to do a fun little activity you both can partake in. you had everything ready and laid out on the kitchen when you call for your boyfriend in the kitchen.

"baby, can you come here real quick?" you hear his bunny slipper-clad feet shuffling as he approaches you, hair head back by a cat eared headband that originally belonged to you and his glasses perched on his nose. his appearance makes you giggle, earning him a peck on the lips.

"what did you need me for mami?" he questions you, his hand naturally finding its way to your waist. "let's make empanadas together."

this was the only time miguel wasn't a disaster to be in the kitchen.

the whole time he had his eyebrows scrunched together in total concentration, obeying your orders like it's the gospel simply because he wanted them to come out at least edible. you worked so hard to prepare this all for him, the least he wanted was for the empanadas to turn out to be good enough to be eaten and to both your surprise, they do!

some are a little disfigured, others too big or too small with stuffings coming out at the seams but they were more than just edible regardless.

now miguel makes it a tradition between you to make empanadas whenever he works from home.

you don't know how miguel finds the time to buy you gifts when he's already so busy with being spider-man and the leader of the spider society so it really does come as a shock when you would wake up every now and then to a gift on top of his pillow and a note under the neatly wrapped box saying how he had bought it thinking of you.

it's basically routine how he wakes up and leaves before you even get out of bed, sometimes he tells you that you look so comfortable asleep that he struggles to get up and get ready himself. anyways, it's a cute little surprise that he leaves you at least three times a week.

sometimes it's something silly like a fridge magnet or a bunch of sticky tabs for when you're bookmarking something on your books. other times it's so precious it makes you wonder if he's breaking the bank by buying you a diamond necklace like every week.

your jewelry box holds an assortment of accessories, rings with the prettiest rocks, bracelets with his name or yours or an important date lasered on the back, and a bunch of necklaces with delicate chains and tiny but adorable charms. oftentimes he'd leave notes for these stuff saying, 'i remember you said you liked daisies so i got you this' and inside would be a necklace with the prettiest daisy charm hanging in the middle.

miguel is funny, thoughtful and expensive with his gifts. he does believe that it's just another way to make up for having to leave you in the mornings to go to work.

but to you? it's just another thing for you to love about him. to you, it means waking up and looking forward to what life and miguel have in store for you. it makes you feel hopeful about a lasting future with miguel that would one day mean taking on his last name as mrs. o'hara.

[macravishedbymactavish]

Dishes Vs. Laundry Headcanons (TF141 + Alex)

Based off the theory that every couple has someone who prefers doing laundry while the other prefers dishes. NOT an x reader HC list

| Blog HQ | Modern Warfare Masterlist | Modern Warfare 2 Masterlist | Ghosts Version | Taglist Open |

Amazing at fitting all the dishes into the dishwasher.

Soap // Dishes

Not to mention it takes care of all the work for his dishwasher safe items (95% of his kitchen)

The other 5% (all his cutlery - somehow he ended up with all handwash only) is washed and drying in under 10 minutes.

Side note: he runs out of forks the quickest and can't quite figure out why.

Then it's waiting for the dishwasher to be done, the dishes to be dried and quickly putting them away.

Gets so, so sick of the guys making jokes about his codename in regards to this.

The first time was funny, the 10th time gets you a soaked shirt and Scottish swear words.

Doesn't hate laundry necessarily, but definitely not big on folding his clothes.

He just kind of accepts the fact that they're going to get wrinkles.

Accepts the fact that he'll be ironing his clothes for the rest of his life.

"Can't let those lessons from Ma go to waste"

Has, on more than one occasion, started doing his bedding in the morning and forgot about it until he was ready to sleep for the night.

Something about the meticulous process with sorting, folding, and putting away clothes just clicks with him.

Ghost // Laundry

Always sorts whites from colours

Has a seperate hamper by the washer for towels

Folds everything (even the underwear) into small little bundles when he packs for a trip or work.

Soap's entire worldview on laundry stresses him out a bit. Adding steps to a chore you already don't like?

Why

WHY

Not a fan of doing dishes. Somehow finds it more repetitive, time-consuming, and soul crushing.

Has thrown out 2 plates in his life because he couldn't be bothered with washing them

Has also genuinely contemplated Soap as a housemate when doing dishes.

"Solving each other's problems"

Has an expansive plastic cutlery collection.

Not even the type you'd buy in a large bulk pack from the store; but like cutlery, you get from takeout.

Argues that it's amazing for on the go lunches (you toss it out) and uses the forks to stir his coffee in the morning.

I would be lying if I told you this man hasn't thought of buying bulk everything to last him a month just so he doesn't have to clean.

Price // Neither, but does them anyway

Except Ghost pointed out that the bulk underwear would itchy, and Laswell refused to let him use her Costco card for this.

Not that he's messy or gross - no, no.

He is a rather clean guy but absolutely hates the process of getting there. It's mundane. It's exhausting.

Has walked by the washing machine, full of laundry he's waiting to swap over and muttered "fuckin' hell" when he realized it's not done yet.

Glares into the cupboard when he realizes his favorite mug is dirty, promptly glares at the mug for being dirty.

Then internally complains the entire time he's washing the thing. Despite having many other, perfectly suitable mugs in your cupboard. John.

He has the utmost pride in his appearance and is fairly meticulous about the care of his clothes.

Gaz // Laundry

It helps that his dad was the same way in his youth and taught him all the tricks to keeping things bright, getting stains out, and having the nicest smelling laundry.

Happily gives this advice out to his teammates and friends (no, I'm not doing your laundry for you. Wankers)

While doing dishes is sort of the same concept (different care needs for different things), he finds it too much of a pain when cooking.

As Kyle is the "seven knives" meme.

Yeah.

It also doesn't help that he always organizes the cupboards and drawers before all the dishes are done

Then, he has to start re-doing everything when he runs out of room for bowls.

Which typically ends up in the surplus of clean dishes stacked neatly on the counters or table.

Not by concious choice

Alex // Says he doesn't mind either, but it's actually neither

He truly doesn't mind either. he's just too much of a free spirit about it.

I'm talking: "eh, I'm fine to do it on the weekend"

Then, realizes he has one set of clean boxers left on a random Wednesday night.

Or forgets the clean laundry in the washer until it gets a weird smell and needs to be rewashed

Kyle had no other advice other than:

Just don't forget it in there then???

The same goes for the dishes in the dishwasher (minus the weird smell)

80/20 split on dishes, though (clean, sitting in the dishwasher)

80% of the time, he'll grab whatever dishes he needs for meals or cooking from the dishwasher as he goes.

20% of the time, he'll take everything out and put it away.

100% of the time, he promises himself to get the entire process done in one day (then 80% of the time forgets)

Taglist (all content): @bloodonmyhands-1221 @v1naco @bowtruckleninja

Taglist (Alex content): @glitterypirateduck @deadbranch @gcing-back-to-505

[shiorihyugawrites]

The Ballad Of The Magenta Witch

After centuries of solitude and betrayal, the enigmatic and powerful sorceress Mea finds herself drawn to the war-torn lands of Paradis. With her loyal, sword-wielding companion Goldfish Levi at her side, Mea arrives in the midst of a brewing conflict between the Scouts and Marley. Her flippant demeanor and extraordinary magic disrupt the regimented lives of Eren, Levi, and the other Scouts, sparking chaos, curiosity, and alliances that none of them could have foreseen. Amidst the clashing of titans and nations, a forgotten legend breathes life into a new chapter that will shape the fate of Paradis itself. Will the Magenta Witch be a boon to their cause or a force of beautiful destruction? (Eren x OC)

Chapter Thirty One

They arrived back at Scout HQ in the pale afternoon light, a tired band of travelers stepping through the gates. The weight of their journey clung to their limbs like a heavy fog, yet there was a certain exhilaration among them—an undercurrent of disbelief and silent joy. At last, they were home.

The courtyard of HQ had a comforting familiarity to it: the bustle of lower-ranked scouts going about their chores, the scent of cooking from the mess hall, the steady breeze rustling the flags overhead. It felt surreal to walk in as though nothing had changed, when in reality, everything had.

Waiting under the archway leading into the courtyard, Hange, Jean, Connie, Sasha, and Zeke were gathered in a loose semicircle, evidently restless. The moment the returning group came into view, Hange nearly tripped over her own feet as she dashed forward.

“Finally!” Hange exclaimed, adjusting her glasses which threatened to slide off her nose. She scanned their faces: Eren, Mea, Mikasa, Armin, Levi, and Goldfish Levi floating near Mea’s shoulder. All looked exhausted, but not defeated. “I was worried,” she said, her excitement only tempered by obvious relief. “What happened? Did it work?” Her gaze flicked to Eren.

Jean and Connie edged in closer, while Sasha strained on her toes from behind, trying to see Eren’s expression. Even Zeke, though unimpressed, looked somewhat curious, his small chicken eyes narrowed.

Mikasa and Armin stepped aside, letting Eren stand in front of them all. He swallowed, shooting Mea a glance before responding. Then he nodded. “It worked,” he said softly. “I’m… I’m immortal now.”

A collective silence followed those words. Connie gawked, eyes wide, while Jean crossed his arms, appearing torn between calling Eren an idiot and being genuinely awestruck. Sasha’s hands flew to her mouth. Hange’s eyes lit up with fascination, scribbling mental notes in her head, no doubt. Zeke cocked his chicken head like it was the most ridiculous thing he had ever heard.

Levi, arms already crossed, scowled and muttered, “I’m never going back to that filthy lake again.”

But the tension that had weighed them down for days—perhaps for weeks—drained out in that moment. If Eren was here, standing before them, alive and breathing and apparently unchanged beyond the creeping promise of eternal life, then they could accept that. They could even be relieved.

Hange let out a long, shaky breath. “So that’s that, then.” Her eyes flickered from Eren to Mea. “And you’re both okay?”

Eren nodded. “A little tired, but yeah. I’m… I feel good.”

“Better than good,” Mea teased, stepping closer, her magenta eyes shimmering with mischief. “He’s unstoppable now.”

Armin rubbed his temple, exhaustion evident in the droop of his shoulders. “There were illusions in that forest. Strange defenses. But we made it through.” He looked at Eren, a small smile tugging at his lips. “And… it’s done.”

Mikasa, always more private with her emotions, stood just behind Eren, arms folded, but her posture had relaxed. The fierce lines of worry etched into her face had softened into something else—acceptance, maybe. She caught Eren’s eye and gave him a small nod.

Jean cleared his throat. “So… you’re not suddenly, like, glowing or something?”

Eren gave a rueful half-smile. “Not that I can tell.”

Connie’s expression flickered between unease and awe. “Man… this is nuts. I can’t believe you actually did it.”

Eren shrugged slightly. “Believe it. Or don’t. Either way, it’s done.”

Goldfish Levi, floating at Mea’s side, let out a dramatic sigh. “Well, at least I won’t be the only ancient fish in the sea now,” he grumbled. “This might be interesting.”

Zeke, strutting forward a few steps in his feathery form, made a huffing sound. “Oh, fantastic. Another immortal. Just what the world needs. Congratulations, little brother,” he added with a sarcastic cluck, though a hint of genuine relief lurked behind his mocking tone.

Levi sniffed, eyeing Eren one last time as though to ensure no visible changes were blossoming. “If we’re done here, I’m taking a bath,” he declared abruptly. Without another word, he turned on his heel, striding into HQ with that familiar air of nonchalance. No one tried to stop him, half of them used to his ways and the other half too drained to object.

A bubble of warm laughter rose among those who remained. Even Mea chuckled, leaning into Eren’s shoulder. “He’s consistent,” she noted, remembering how he had always been precise about cleanliness.

Mikasa relaxed a fraction further. She glanced at Eren, her expression still guarded but no longer hostile. “I’m just… glad you’re okay,” she said quietly.

A soft look crossed Eren’s face. “Thanks, Mikasa.”

She dipped her head in acknowledgment, stepping back with Armin, who placed a hand on her arm. The two best friends exchanged glances: they both knew how worried Mikasa had been. Armin gave her a supportive nod.

Sasha, who had been suspiciously quiet, suddenly burst into tears. “Eren!” she wailed, rushing forward to wrap her arms around him in a tight hug. “You big, stupid… unstoppable man! I’m glad you’re not dead!”

Eren patted her back, smiling fondly. “Glad to be alive.”

She pulled away, tears still clinging to her lashes but a grin spreading across her face. “So does that mean we can have a feast tonight? A big one?”

Connie snorted. “That’s all you ever think about, Sasha.”

Mea smirked, giving Eren a playful nudge. “I, for one, would not object to a celebratory party. I could use a big meal after all that stress.”

“Of course you could,” teased Jean, rolling his eyes. “God forbid you actually have to cook for yourself.”

Mea turned to him with a mischievous glint. “Careful, I might just enchant you to be my personal chef.”

Hange, still lingering nearby, cleared her throat. “Well, as fascinating as all this is, I’d prefer to do some check-ups first. Eren, we should probably examine you—just to see if there are any immediate changes in your physiology. Purely for scientific curiosity, of course.”

Eren hesitated, then shrugged. “Sure, if you want.”

Goldfish Levi grunted. “Huh, that’s a point. Maybe he’s changed on the inside. Maybe he’s got glowing organs now.”

Mea rolled her eyes. “Don’t be ridiculous, Goldie.” Then she paused, tapping a finger to her chin. “Though, it would be interesting to see if your magic threshold changed.”

Eren made a face, imagining a bunch of tests and needles. “Fine, but can I at least eat something first?”

Sasha immediately perked up. “I’ll go get you some of the stew they’re making in the mess hall!”

Connie nodded. “And I’ll help carry the bread.”

Hange watched them dart off, shaking her head. “Never changes.”

Mikasa moved toward Armin, quietly conferring with him about returning to the usual scouting duties. Now that the immediate crisis was resolved, life at HQ would go on. Despite the extraordinary events, daily tasks still needed attending.

That left Eren and Mea more or less alone, aside from Goldfish Levi who floated around them like an overprotective guardian. Eren turned to Mea, a faint smile on his face. He studied her magenta eyes, the curve of her lips, the delicate line of her jaw. This was the woman for whom he’d traveled to another realm, drowned himself, and emerged reborn.

She gazed back at him, and for a moment, the world seemed to recede. There was something in her expression—a softness he had seen before, but never quite this strong. A relief, a joy. Like a weight had been lifted, not just from him, but from her as well.

Then, with no warning, she grabbed him by the front of his shirt and pulled him into a kiss. It wasn’t gentle or tentative. It was fierce, a clash of mingled breath and tangled emotions. Eren let out a surprised noise but instantly melted into it, his arms coming around her waist. The taste of her was sweet, with a hint of the whiskey she’d been sipping earlier. Her fingers wove into his hair, tugging him closer as if she could fuse them together.

From the corner of his eye, Eren saw Mikasa and Armin glance back, then swiftly look away, half-laughing, half-groaning. Jean made a face like he might retch, but secretly he was relieved to see Eren so unguardedly happy. Levi had already vanished to his bath, so Eren was spared the older man’s blunt remarks.

Goldfish Levi, on the other hand, let out a dramatic sigh from overhead. “Well, guess they’re gonna do that for all eternity now.”

Mea finally broke the kiss, breathless and smiling in a way Eren had never seen. Her cheeks glowed. “I’m so happy you’re safe,” she whispered, pressing her forehead against his. “And… I’ll admit it, I’m glad you did this, even if I hated the idea.”

Eren chuckled, sliding a hand up to cup her cheek. “I know. But now you don’t have to be alone. Ever.”

She nodded, biting her lip. “I just… I need you to promise me something.”

He brushed a strand of magenta hair from her face. “Anything.”

“Promise me,” Mea said softly, “that if, in a hundred years, two hundred years, a thousand… if you ever regret this, you’ll tell me. Don’t keep it locked inside. We’ll find a way, if it comes to that. I don’t want you to be miserable.”

Eren’s eyes flickered with a gentle seriousness. “I promise. But I won’t regret it. Because it’s you.”

A watery smile curved her lips. “You damn romantic.”

He laughed, holding her close. “Yeah, well, you make me that way.”

She shook her head, leaning into the crook of his shoulder, inhaling the scent of him—river water, forest, and something inherently Eren. “We have forever now,” she murmured against his shirt.

Eren’s heart pounded at the idea of eternity. No more ticking clock. No more fear of leaving her behind. For the first time in ages, he felt untethered from the constraints of time—free in a way he had never imagined possible.

“We’ll go everywhere,” Mea said, voice warm with excitement. “We’ll see all the wonders of this world. And beyond, if we can. Every kingdom, every sea. We’ll drink in every tavern, dance in every festival, climb every mountain.”

He grinned, pulling back to look into her eyes. “That sounds like a plan.”

Goldfish Levi cleared his throat—or whatever the equivalent was for a floating fish. “Don’t forget to include me. I’m not missing out on eternal adventures.”

Mea shot him a wry grin. “Don’t worry, Goldie. You’re part of the family. We’ll need your cooking anyway.”

Goldfish Levi rolled his eyes. “Someone’s gotta keep you two from starving, I guess.”

From across the courtyard, Mikasa and Armin approached with slow steps, the tension in Mikasa’s expression replaced by something more resigned, almost tender. Armin spoke first, offering Eren a small smile. “We were going to see if you wanted to join us for dinner in the mess hall. Sasha’s apparently preparing a feast for you.”

Eren glanced at Mea, who smiled and took his hand, letting him pull her to her feet properly. “Sounds good,” Eren said.

Mikasa caught Eren’s gaze and gave him a short nod. “You’re happy with this, right?” She didn’t sound accusatory now, just concerned.

Eren squeezed Mea’s hand. “Yeah. I am.”

A slight flicker of acceptance passed over Mikasa’s face. She still looked conflicted, but seeing Eren smile so freely was enough to silence her protests—for now. Maybe time would heal the rest.

Armin gestured toward the doors leading inside. “Let’s go before Sasha eats everything on the table in your honor.”

They all walked toward the mess hall, conversation picking up around them. Hange shouted from across the courtyard that they wanted to examine Eren afterward, to which Eren just waved a noncommittal hand. Mea teased him mercilessly about being a lab rat now that he was an immortal curiosity.

And through it all, Eren felt a sense of weightlessness. Yes, there would be challenges ahead. Yes, immortality carried its own burdens. But for the moment, there was only the warmth of Mea’s hand in his, the familiarity of his friends gathered around him, and the open road of a life no longer bound by time stretching endlessly before him.

Eternity might be daunting, but it was theirs to share.

And for once, Eren welcomed it.

~

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[juicycoutureheaux]

When It's Over Chapter 18 : Easy Lovers

Anna awoke feeling exhausted. She knew she needed some coffee and comfort food. Eating poorly wasn’t her favorite thing in the world to do, but she knew it was necessary sometimes.

She got dressed and exited the bedroom to find Claire dressed in yesterday's clothes sitting at the breakfast table.

“Hey I’m so sorry I’m a horrible hostess.” Anna sheepishly admitted. “Did you want to borrow some of my clothes? I feel bad for making you stay over unprepared.”

Claire smiled at Anna. “Honestly, I am curious about the infamous closet Chris spent so much time on, so yeah I will take you up on that offer.”

Anna laughed and led Claire up to the bedroom to the large closet. Claire let out a whistle. “I remember how they bought this house. He put a lot of work into this closet.”

Anna felt a cold sweat. She knew he did a lot for her, she felt like she wasn’t reciprocating enough.

As if like a mind reader, Claire clasped her hand on Anna’s shoulder. “He loves carpentry, he’s always loved building things almost as much as he loves to fish. I’m glad he has someone to build things for.”

“He’s a good man, I hope I give him enough in return, sometimes I worry I’m not enough for him. It’s hard being in a relationship with a guy like your brother.” Anna admitted.

Claire tilted her head in confusion.

“I mean, he just means a lot to a bunch of people, it’s like dating an A- list celebrity.”

Claire looked at her with sympathy. “I think you are overthinking it, the way he talks about you, Anna, he hasn’t talked about anyone that way in a long time.”

Anna remained silent, she didn’t know what else to say. “Thank you Claire.”

“Don’t mention it girl.” She laughed.

Claire analyzed Anna’s wardrobe.

“I can already tell your clothes are completely different from anything I would wear.” She said holding up a lavender gingham sundress.

“That dress actually goes really well with your red hair Claire.” Anna admired. “Give it a try! It’ll be fun wearing stuff you wouldn’t normally wear, I’ll do your makeup and let’s go out for brunch, I’m jonesing for girl time.” Anna whined and begged.

“Oh my gosh you are a real little sister.” They both laughed in unison. Claire caved and let Anna doll her up and the girls went to one of Anna’s favorite brunch spots.

“Please let this be my treat.” Anna said after they placed their order. “I really appreciate you wasting a Sunday babysitting me.”

Claire blew a raspberry. “I think you need to stop making it seem like it’s a chore to be around you.”

Anna felt her face fall. “It’s like you can read my mind.”

“I don’t have to, you wear your emotions on your face. It’s amazing they haven’t taught you at the bsaa how to hide them.”

Anna covered her face out of habit. “Chris always says that too, he says I’m so lucky I haven’t been interrogated, I’d give everything away.” Anna shifted in her seat. “I was never really special agent material, I just happened to be stupid enough to go down in that mine.”

Claire looked at Anna curiously, analyzing her. “No offense, but you didn’t strike me as someone who willingly went into dangerous situations like the one where you initially met Chris.”

Anna knew why she was being vague, they were out in public, they were talking about extremely classified things. They were dancing around the subject, that’s what her new life entailed, hiding behind innuendo.

Anna sighed, she ordered a mimosa, it wasn’t like her to drink but she knew there would be girl talk and always needed an extra boost.

“At the time I agreed to go to that place,” Anna sighed, “I was starting to give up.” She hadn’t talked about this with anyone, not even Chris. “I hated my life, I was ready to just let anything happen to me.”

Claire took in a sharp breath understanding what Anna meant.

“I wouldn’t have been allowed down there if they knew how I truly felt, I said that I was willing to go above and beyond for research purposes. I was surprised HQ agreed, but it seemed they were desperate for people willing to deploy to the area.”

Anna swirled the liquid in her glass. “In a way something that I had intended to destroy my life saved it, I met your brother. I swear I’m not the type of girl that’s only happy if I’m in a relationship but after my marriage and the death of Michael, the loneliness is so much worse.” She pinched the bridge of her nose.

“Oh Anna,” Claire exhaled. “That’s a lot to hold in, have you thought about seeing a therapist?”

Anna laughed. “Honestly no, the grief counselors I worked with after Michael’s death just made me more frustrated.”

Claire smiled knowingly. “You and Chris are a lot alike.”

Anna laughed a full belly laugh. “Yeah I guess in some ways we are, there’s got to be some basis for attraction right?”

They enjoyed their drinks and brunch, on the way home Anna decided to be brave and ask about Chris’ ex, Jill.

“What do you want to know?”

Anna sighed, “She’s like a legend at the BSAA, I feel like everyone’s scared to mention her around me.”

“Maybe it’s because of how it ended between them. You do know Chris and Jill bought the house you guys live in together.”

Anna sighed. “I’m aware, but what happened? I just don’t understand how someone could give up everything, especially a man like Chris.”

“Their relationship was complicated at best.” Claire was extremely vague.

Anna left it at that.

They said their goodbyes and Anna told her to keep the dress. “I can’t ever pull off that dress as good as you can Claire, please keep it. Maybe it’ll inspire you to buy girlier clothes.”

Claire laughed out loud. “I doubt it but thanks.” She gave Anna a real hug, one that made her feel warm.

After Claire left and the house settled, Anna felt empty again.

With her time she decided to do something daring.

She went into the closet and pulled out a white box that hadn’t been opened, revealing a lacy black bustier and matching undies. The underwear, if you could call them that, were low cut in the back with a little bow at the top of the panty line. It made her ass look amazing.

She had a little photo shoot in the mirror showing off the set initially. Her hands shook as she sent the pictures to her boyfriend.

She was hanging out in bed scrolling on her phone 20 minutes later when she got a response.

“You drive me crazy babe.” She smiled.

Her phone pinged again. “Mind taking off a little more?”

Anna couldn’t deny her hard working boyfriend, she teased him with photos of her slowly taking off the straps of the bustier.

“Don’t be a tease baby, you’re a good girl, you know how to please me.”

Anna felt a jolt of electricity course through her. She did something she would have never done before. She sent a picture of her hand down her panties.

“Good girl, take them off, show me how much you miss me.”

Anna did as she was told. She was too horny to be embarrassed, she would have never taken nudes like this before but the distance changed things.

Anna actually came to Chris’ texts. He had guided her through her release and it was like nothing she had felt before.

*Its crazy how much power you have over me even thousands of miles away. I miss you so much.* Anna sent.

*I miss you too Doll. It’s been a rough mission, I needed this release tonight. I should be home soon.*

*Really? Oh honey, that's amazing news.*

She bit her lip and double texted. “Maybe with your time off we could visit my family in Georgia?*

She felt like it was a million hours before Chris responded.

*I’d love that Anna, do you think your dad would like me?*

Anna laughed out loud. The thought of Chris being nervous about meeting her father made her giddy for some reason.

*He’s going to love you, you guys are going to get along very well.*

The next couple of days were torture for Anna waiting for Chris to come back. She received a definite day to expect him back and immediately began coordinating their trip back to her home in Georgia.

The day finally came and Chris came home. He looked weary, but his eyes still had light when he saw Anna.

Anna hugged him tight, she inhaled his scent that was intoxicatingly woodsy. He wasted no time to pick her up and take her to the bedroom.

Anna was excited to strip off her dress to reveal the same set she had sent him pictures of.

“I was hoping you’d be a good girl and wear that one for me baby.” He said leaning back onto the pillows.

Anna playfully struck a flirtatious pose. She turned her back to him and looked over her shoulder, “You like this daddy?” She let it slip, she didn’t mean to call him daddy.

Chris raised an eyebrow. “Daddy?” His tone of voice indicated that he didn’t hate it, he was just making sure he heard her correctly.

She blushed immediately. “Yup,” she said awkwardly.

“Come here sweetie, don’t be embarrassed.” He said huskily. “Come show daddy how much you missed him.”

Anna smiled as she crawled onto Chris’ lap and he immediately enveloped her lips in a passionate kiss. He dominated her mouth with his tongue, making up for the lost time,

“Fuck I missed you so much sweet girl.” He breathed, kissing her neck, letting his hands wander to the bustier, pulling it down revealing her ample breasts.

Anna leaned her head back and moaned as he took the supple flesh into his mouth and began to suckle her.

“I missed you…daddy.” She said again stroking his dark hair.

“Take these panties off princess, I want to see all of you.”

Anna happily obliged, taking off the flimsy fabric exposing her wet pussy. Chris pushed her onto her back and gripped her hips with his large hands. “You look so beautiful baby, all tight for me, I bet you barely played with yourself while I was away.”

Anna laughed awkwardly. “Nope, other than that one night I’ve just been waiting for you.” She admitted.

He spread her lips apart with his thick digits entering his index finger into her. She writhed underneath him as he added another and began to suck her clit needily.

“Please…” she whimpered.

Chris placed a large hand on her lower abdomen. “Patience baby, I have to make sure you’re ready to take me. Don’t want to hurt you princess.”

Anna whimpered, she felt her climax was near. Chris began to continue faster, as he pumped his fingers deeper into her until he felt her cum.

He got up and wiped his mouth, causing Anna to look away in embarrassment, she had completely wet his face. “You taste sweeter than I remember gorgeous.”

Anna got up and kissed Chris passionately, kissing his neck and moving down to his cock as she began to suck. He was surprised she took initiative so quick and held her hair gently out of her face.

“So beautiful when you suck my cock princess, you’re such a good girl.” He stroked her face gently.

As Anna took Chris deeper into her throat, Chris tapped on Anna before she went too far. “I want to cum inside your pussy.”

She blushed at his new nickname for her. She got on all fours but Chris flipped her on her back. He got in between her legs and put his elbows next to her head so he completely enveloped her frame. “I want to be as close to you as possible.” He entered her gently, allowing her to stretch around him before bottoming out inside of her. He kissed her gently, murmuring into her ear about how much he loved her.

This was the kind of sex Anna was used to having, she felt her climax impending. “Chris I love you so much, never leave me.”

Chris caressed her face, “I promise, I’ll do whatever it takes to make it back to you princess.” He kissed her needily, his thrusts becoming sloppy.

Anna felt her climax happen causing her to tighten around Chris, which caused him to cum deep inside of her.

He stayed inside of her. “I love you Anna.” He said simply and kissed her cheek.

Anna collapsed her head on the pillows as Chris nuzzled his face into her neck. He pulled out and rolled over next to her holding her close.

“I missed this,” Anna said.

Chris hummed into her in response. He was falling asleep. Anna rubbed his back gently until she heard his light snores. She felt at peace and was finally able to close her eyes.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The next morning Anna awoke to Chris already awake and shuffling around. She knew how hard it was to adjust coming home after deployment.

He was dressed and on his laptop likely writing a report, he had his back turned to her. She approached him but made sure to say something before wrapping her arms around him; she wanted to make sure she didn’t spook him.

“Hey handsome, writing reports already?”

He looked up at her and smiled. “Just trying to get a head start on the inevitable. You looked so peaceful I didn’t want to disturb you.”

Anna leaned down to kiss him tenderly.

“Thanks, it’s embarassing but I sleep a lot better when you’re here.”

Chris smiled. “Good, makes me think you’ll keep me around.”

Anna scoffed. “As if I’d ever want to get rid of you.”

Anna made Chris coffee as he worked on his computer silently. She knew he had just come home but since their relationship was getting more serious by the second, she couldn’t help but ask.

“Chris…” she squeaked out hesitantly.

He turned around looking at her curiously. “I’ve been thinking about it and you don’t have to say anything if you don’t want to.”

Chris closed the laptop and sat next to Anna on the bed, he put his hand on her thigh and gently squeezed.

Anna took a deep breath. “I wanted to ask some questions about Jill.”

Chris blew out a low whistle. “I knew this was coming.”

Anna scrambled. “I know you just got home and I am so sorry-“ Chris cut her off by kissing her.

He rubbed her arm. “It’s fine Princess, she’s my ex and you’ve been nothing but open about Michael, it makes sense for you to be curious.”

Anna felt herself relax.

Chris started from the beginning, about their working relationship in Raccoon City, the mansion incident and the formation of the BSAA. Anna listened intently as he explained the situation with Wesker and Jill’s “death.”

Her heart broke as he faltered. Anna could tell even though Jill was alive and well, the two years that she was presumed dead had leveled out Chris’ spirit completely.

“We bought this house together in 2014, I thought I was going to retire and maybe,” he let out a sigh and raised his hand through his hair, as if he was nervous about what he was going to say next. “Have a couple of kids.”

Anna knew why he danced around the subject, he didn’t want to make her feel even worse.

“We fell into a routine, I started to pull back from missions some, but Jill, she had this renewed passion inside of her. She kept accepting dangerous missions across the Globe, it was like I was waiting for her to come home. I remember our first big fight, I begged her to slow down, take it easy, but she refused.” He rubbed his temples.

“I wanted her to stay out of danger, I wanted her to settle down and stay with me, I wanted to start a family. I tried controlling her every move because I was scared of losing her again; but I eventually ended up pushing her away.”

Anna felt so much sorrow from her partner. She rubbed his back and leaned her head on his shoulder. Chris put his arm around her in return.

“She said it was like living with her brother, that I controlled every aspect of her life. She didn’t want to live under someone else anymore. It was hard, but for her to be happy I had to let her go.”

“Oh honey.” Anna held his face in her hands. She was feeling tears, damn her sensitive side. “You are such a good man.”

“And that’s the story of Jill and I. Anna I promise, we’re through, you don’t have to worry about her at all.” Chris said, leaning into her.

“I was never worried, Chris. I know your spirit, I don’t think you’re capable of hurting me in that way.”

“God I hope not, I don’t know what I would do if I lost you too.” His eyes were glittering with tears.

“You’ll never have to find out.”

They were in comfortable silence for a moment. Anna thought about what Chris said, how he wanted children, she tried to push it out of her mind.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

That night Chris and Anna were planning their trip to Anna’s hometown to meet her family.

“Have you ever been to Georgia before, Chris?”

Chris was sitting with his legs crossed on the floor looking through different brochures of her home state. Anna wanted to make sure this was just as much of a leisure trip as it was meeting her family.

“Nope, but You grew up in a beautiful area babe.” He says thumbing through a brochure for deep sea fishing. “It makes sense why you always talk about home.”

Anna glanced at the brochure. “Claire mentioned you liked to fish when she came over.” Anna laid her head on his thigh, commanding his attention.

He gently stroked her hair then resting his hand cupping her face. “I did, I used to fish a lot with my dad.”

“You could go fishing with my dad, he has a boat that can go into deep waters, we used to take it off on the coast a lot, my mom loved the ocean.”

Chris raised his eyebrows. “Your dad has a boat?”

Anna laughed. “Yeah it’s not what you think it’s not like a yacht, it's just a saltwater fishing boat, it has a great motor life.”

“You know a lot about boats Anna.” He said with a hint of amusement.

Anna smiled. “I even have my captain's license, I’ve been able to man a boat since I was 18.”

Chris smiled at her, he was surprised that Anna was quite the “outdoorswoman”. “I enjoy shrimping more than fishing though, fishing is fun but there’s something interesting about catching things with a net.”

Chris laughed, he hadn’t laughed like that since he had been home. He couldn’t help but love his girlfriend’s eccentricities.

“A net babe? Really?” He laughed.

“It’s the surprise of what you’re going to get! And it’s a glimpse of what’s in the water! It’s a big glimpse!”

Chris smiled at how much she loved the ocean, well how much she loved nature in general. She mentioned she enjoyed deer hunting in the winter and just observing the wildlife was her favorite part; waiting for something to come along and witnessing it in real time.

“Are you going to show me how to drive a boat babe?” Chris teased her.

“I’m surprised you don’t know already.” Anna looked up at him.

“I know how to man a dingy, but nothing bigger than that.” He admitted.

“We’re going to have some fun with you then.”

Chris laughed knowing he was in for some good old fashioned hazing from Anna’s family.

[kaidatheghostdragon]

Im assuming the three are the trio? Valerie gets added last minute, and dani (from the waynes perspective) appeared out of nowhere and girlbossed anyone who questioned it. If jazz is going to gotham u, she also temporarily moves into the manor while the team is in gotham. Im just imagining the fentons/team phantom behaving like invasive species. Bruce invited a few of them, so the rest aren't far behind. They're a package deal.

I like good fenton parents, so they and some of danny's friendlier rogues are holding down the fort while team phantom is away.

Danny instantly clocks bruce and damian as the foreign visiters and immediately investigates. His experience with fruitloop billionaires has him going down to find the batcave. He hasnt been in the manor longer than five minutes and has already figured out everyones identities.

He doesnt keep secrets from his team either. Qualms about outing another hero? No. His team works together as a single unit. Communication was a hard won lesson as they fought for their (after)lives. (Literally the only time they keep secrets is if sharing intel threatens the stability of the timeline, which requires proof in the form of a clockwork sticky note demanding them to not tell.) If his team is staying in batmans home, they have a right to know.

Listen, if batman and robin witnessed them facing The Horrors(tm) like an everyday chore, then team phantom deserves to be a well-oiled butt-kicking machine.

I'd imagine bruce's motives for arranging a student exchange program and inviting the trio to stay with him was to analyze them more closely, possibly train up some of their weak points, and flesh out more thorough contigencies. But i think it'd be really funny if he just *continues* to be one step behind them the whole way.

He orchestrates a scenario where he "discovers" one of them has powers to get an opening to talk about it?

Bruce: so you have powers?

Danny: wasnt exactly hiding it.

Bruce: i dont know how things are where youre from (absolute lie), but here in gotham, flaunting powers is dangerous. It could make you a target.

Danny: more dangerous than inviting a team of unknown meta-adjacents to live in your home right on top of your secret lair slash vigilante hq?

Bruce offers to train them?

Danny and jazz: our mom's a ninth degree black belt and both of our parents are inventors and expert weapons handlers. We learned martial arts, modern weapons handling and how to pilot over fifty different types of vehicles just from them.

Valerie: i joined the team already as a ninth degree black belt.

Danny and ellie: we have multiple mentors in the realms that have helped us master each of our powers, and trained us in fighting handicapped with restricted powersets and limited or no access to powers.

Tucker: i hacked into the batcomputer in less than five minutes without even using any technopathy.

Sam: AND we've all trained under Lady Pandora with dozens of different types of traditional and historical weapons. I'm pretty sure that makes us all honorary amazons.

Bruce wants to see how well they work as a team and partnered up with various bats to gauge their skill sets?

Ellie with damian: Ellie is better at disarming damian than any of the bats. How so? She goads him into attacking, deliberately lets him successfully land a hit, and absorbs the weapon into her body. Bruce tried to prevent it, but damian eventually snapped and full body tackled her, not holding back. Somehow, neither got worse than bruises and ellie declared damian her new best friend. Damian has changed loyalties.

Tucker, Tim, and Barbara: tim and barbie started out trying to guage tucker's level of ability. They started a hackathon that lasted a whole weekend, nobody slept, and nearly every socialite in gotham connected to the court of owls was arrested for some exposed crime or another.

Jazz: everyone she gets paired with ends up bawling their eyes out, beelining straight to bruce to give him a hug and insist that he needs to spend some one-on-one with her as well. Jason straight up proposed to Jazz and declared that he'll change his name to Fenton. Somehow, he now has ghost powers. Both insist that they had absolutely nothing to do with the joker's severed remains washing up in gotham harbor two weeks later, which might actually be true as all of jazz's free time is currently being spent adopting talons.

Danny, Cass, and Stephanie: Bruce is very certain that he'll be cleaning glitter out of the cave until the end of time.

Valerie and duke: they seem perfectly behaved, but bruce just knows their hiding something. He knows it deep in his bones. (Plot twist: valerie killed the joker.)

Sam and dick: dick introduced sam to harley and ivy. Sam has disowned her parents and declared ivy to be her adopted mom. Nobody else in team phantom is surprised by this turn of events and have advised bruce to 'just let her get the pent up aggression out of her system. She's earned it."

Bruce sitting at the batcomputer staring at the empty file called "team phantom contingencies" with soul crushing despair?

Danny: here's my contingency file. All plans are categorized by how physically painful they would be, how temporary or permanent the measures would last, and what kind of long term consequences each would have.

DP x DC Prompt: The Watchlist

Batman has a watchlist. A list that contains every individual who could become a rouge and a contingency plan for if they did.  

And while they, his children, often make fun of his paranoia and him for having it, they totally understand why he did. They lived in Gotham, for Christ's sake. Where everyone’s just a pin drop away from being the city’s next big villain, forcing the bats to scratch their heads while playing cat and mouse with a sicko for a good few weeks. And while they won’t admit it, the list has helped them a few times. 

But that won’t stop them from making fun of any of the list’s new developments. Because you see, there was a new list. And it wasn’t just a watchlist. No, no, no. It was The Watchlist.

It was a new development after he and Robin went on an out-of-state mission to investigate some town in bum fuck nowhere Illinois. And it was under some pretty tight security as well, so they were expecting something good, like mad scientists or evil mayors. Not profiles of the kids who lived in the town. And while there were a few metas and vigilantes that made the list interesting, by the end of it all they just seemed to be teenagers. 

Until they saw Damian. They hadn’t seen him since he came back from the mission with B. He looked tired. Like ‘Tim hasn’t slept in a week and is surviving on just coffee beans’ tired.

“Ah, I see you all have found it. Good. A few of them will be arriving next week as they’re a part of Gotham Academy’s student exchange program. At least three of them will be staying in the manor with us. Father will need you all to be on standby and to be ready for any possible scenario. Please, for the love of all that is good, do not encourage them in any way, shape, or form. And please do not dismiss them either. The outcome of doing that will be much worse. Is there more that I should add? Yes. Will I? No, because you won’t understand. Not until you've seen what I have.” 

The demon child sighed, then looked them dead in the eyes. “Godspeed to us all.” Then walked away.

Okay, they were scared now.

[little-spoiled-brat]

Hi can I get an Erwin x reader if you’re still writing for Erwin? Where everyone knows that Erwin has dedicated his whole heart to the survey corps so everyone is extremely surprised when a beautiful short girl comes to Hq one day to see Erwin and everyone had to find out who she is and to their surprise, his gf!

pairing: erwin x reader

cw: y/n and erwin having a private relationship, fluff, a lot of banter between the superiors here and there

author's note: ahhh! i missed writing for erwin and this request was too cute that i had to write it <33

- mystery girl -

erwin smith was one hell of a secretive person. you can never tell what plans he had in mind or what was the next trick he had up in his sleeves.

there was only three people in the entire regiment that knew of his background, that knew about his history before he devoted his entire life to the survey corps - captain levi, section commander hange, and section commander miche.

but even those three, despite being the closest to him, didn't knew everything about him. the things they knew was just the tip of the iceburg.

"are you going to be working late tonight?" you asked erwin as you fixed his bolo tie whilst he finished doing his hair. he hummed and wrapped his arms around your waist, pulling you closer to him.

"paperworks but i'll try to get home as early as i can. i don't want to miss dinner and your cooking" erwin said, leaning down as he tilted your head to meet his lips. you smiled into the kiss, wrapping your arms around his neck.

"sweet, eyebrows. very sweet" you teased as erwin chuckled and kissed you once more. you grabbed his jacket, helping him put it on as he thanked you.

"i should get going or i might not get back home in time for dinner" erwin said as you nodded, letting him grab his things and put on his boots before heading for the door.

"be safe. i love you" you said as erwin smiled at you, nodding and kissing you on the forehead before leaving your shared house. "i love you too, y/n. take care"

you watched your boyfriend leave on his horse before turning around and getting started on your chores for the day. you looked at the little list of things to do you had to see that you only had to buy a few things in town and clean around for a bit.

you hummed, grabbing a broom and a dustpan and got started on cleaning. you were sweeping around the kitchen, humming a song when you noticed a box on the counter.

your eyes widened as your instincts kicked in when you realized what it was. erwin's lunch. he must've forgot to grab it before he left. although erwin was not one to get hangry, he might lose it a bit when he realizes that he accidentally left his lunch with your cooking in it.

quickly finishing up your cleaning, you got ready to go to town and drop off his lunch on your way. within a few minutes, you had his lunch safely tucked away in the saddle bag on your horse and you were on your way to town.

it was a few minutes ride but you reached the busy streets of trost district, you tied your horse to one of the post near the gates to let him get some rest and some water before heading back home later.

you walked by foot, holding the lunch box closet to you as you navigated your way through the crowded streets. you caught a glimpse of the survey corps headquarters and walked through the open gates.

some cadets looked at you, probably questioning who was the girl that randomly let herself in their headquarters but brushed it off. you walked inside the building and decided to ask around since you forgot where erwin's office was.

"uh excuse me? where is erwin's office?" you asked a brown haired woman with glasses as she halted and looked at you. she hummed and raised her eyebrows at you as you realized and chuckled.

"oh! i'm erwin's girlfriend, he forgot his lunch and i'm just dropping it off" you said with a soft smile as her eyes lit up in both shock and amusement.

"erwin has a girlfriend? oh uh his office is on the second floor, the second door to the left" she said with a cheery smile, whispering the first part to herself but you pretended not to hear. you knew that erwin kept that part of his life private so you were not surprised when no one knew about you or your relationship.

"thank you!" you said with a grateful nod, walking to the second floor and heading down the long corridor until you reached a room with double doors.

you knocked softly, just in case he had someone in there to make sure you weren't interrupting something important.

"name and business?" erwin's calm voice asked from the other side of the closed door.

"it's y/n. you forgot your lunch so i'm just dropping it off" you said as you were granted permission to enter. you walked inside his office to see that he was actually in the middle of what looked like a strategy meeting.

"hello sweetheart" erwin greeted with a smile, excusing himself before standing up from his seat and crossing the room to reach you. the two men - one with a short stature and black hair and one was tall with blonde hair looked at erwin with surprised expressions.

"i brought your lunch. you forgot it on the kitchen counter and i was heading to town today anyway so i figured that i'd drop it off" you said with a smile as you handed the lunch box over, erwin smiled gratefully and kissed you on the forehead.

"thank you, y/n. i thought i brought it with me before i left but guess i didn't" erwin said with a chuckle as you giggled. you were about to open your mouth to speak when the same woman you asked for help earlier came bursting through the door.

"erwin! why didn't you tell me you had a girlfriend?!" she yelled, bouncing on the balls of her feet excitedly as you looked at her and smiled. you waved at her as she waved back and marched over to your boyfriend, pointing her finger at him.

"why didn't you tell me you had a girlfriend?!" she repeated as erwin chuckled, putting his hands on her shoulders.

"calm down, hange. you never asked if i had one or not and you know i keep that part of my life private" erwin said as he put the lunch on top of his desk.

"well, now that she's here and the three of you are also here. i might as well introduce her" erwin said, returning to your side as he wrapped an arm around your waist.

"y/n this is hange, section commander of the survey corps. that is levi, captain of the survey corps, and that is miche, also a section commander of the survey corps. hange, levi, and miche, this is y/n, my girlfriend" erwin said, pointing to each person in the room as you waved at them and smiled.

"tch. you should've told us about her sooner. we would've stopped trying to find you a girlfriend" levi muttered, crossing his arms as miche and hange nodded in agreement.

"sorry-" erwin started as he rubbed the back of his head but he was cut off by hange.

"wait! you were also trying to find him a girlfriend, levi?" hange asked, narrowing her eyes at the raven captain as he clicked his tongue.

miche exhaled through his nose in agreement as the two section commanders started nagging the poor captain, asking him question after question. you laughed at the three superiors as erwin shook his head, turning to you.

"you better get going before you get interrogated by them as well and you end up not getting anything done" erwin said, kissing you on the nose as you giggled and nodded. the two of you quietly left the office, leaving the three higher ups bickering in the room.

erwin walked you to the gates of the headquarters, some cadets asking who you were as he proudly and happily replied with "y/n, my girlfriend" every time.

you reached the front gates as erwin placed one more kiss on your lips.

"let me know if you need anything, you know where to find me" erwin whispered, pecking you lips as you nodded at him. you gave him a hug as he squeezed you before letting you go.

"i will. see you later, erwin" you said with a smile, waving at him as you walked out the gates. he watched you as you crossed the road, making your way through town as the smile on his face never left even after you were no longer in his sights.

later on that day, just like he promised, erwin came back home early and just in time for dinner.

taglist: @levi-supreme @galactict3a @notgoodforlife @jooonpapi @imkumichan @lamees004 @ackermendick

[alwaysaskerurihan]

"I knew taking care of the horses was your favorite chore, but I am surprised to find you here so early!" Nifa says as she joins them in the tack room. "Did you eat breakfast at least?" she adds in a worried tone.

"I brewed some tea & snacked on a biscuit or two before coming to the stable, thanks for asking Nifa!" says anon as they carry a saddle & a cloth out to their mare's stall.

"Why did you harness Erwin's, Levi's & Hange's horses? & why are you getting Hope ready too? Where are you all going?"

Nifa starts to comb & plain the horse's mane as anon puts the cloth, saddle & tack on the mare.

"I groomed the four horses because we're going to ride in the forest this morning" they reply. "I brushed them & picked out their hoofs earlier. Maybe you can warm them up while I fill the feeding troughs & the waterers for the others before leaving. I managed to get extra barley last week, the horses will appreciate a little treat I think!" they giggle.

"Well, Squad Leader Hange did not say anything about them leaving the HQ today! Will you really join them for the ride?" she asks.

"That's my idea actually!" they reply, a little flustered. "I invited them on the terrace for tea yesterday & it went pretty well between us I may say! I offered they ride in the forest with me today. They all agreed in spite of the amount of work & Captain Levi suggested we could patrol together."

Anon smiles shyly. Their face blushes at this memory & the memory of the Valentine's chocolates & bouquet they gave to Levi. They don't say anything about it to Nifa though.

"When I'll be back we can muck out & spread fresh straw in the stalls!" they finally add.

Nifa agrees.

"I must go to the mess hall now, I'm starving!" she says as she walks away towards the HQ main building. "See you later then! You won't be alone too long, your dates are coming to you!" she jokes.

"Wh-what? No, don't say that Nifa, it's...no, please just don't!"

Anon raises their head, grins & blushes as they watch Erwin, Levi & Hange walk briskly towards them.

🍭 - anon

"Good morning, anon!" Hange waves cheerfully as they lead the trio through the stable doors. "It looks like it's going to be an awesome day for a ride." They make a beeline for the furthest stall to the left where their new piebald mare is already leaning her head out of the stall in greeting. "Hello my love!" Hange beams, extending her hand to feed the horse an apple. "Good morning to you, Sylvie. Have you had a good sleep?"

As they chat away to their horse, Erwin walks up to the anon with a warm smile. "Good morning indeed. I hope you got plenty of rest after your hard work yesterday and the effort you put into that tea." He approaches his own white stallion, grabbing the prepared gear for him on the way. "I rather think when the day starts off this bright, it sets a good start to the day."

"Or it's just lulling you into a false sense of security," Levi remarks, already inside the stall of his black stallion and placing a saddle over his back. He rubs his steed's neck as the animal nickers. "It could turn out to be a real shitty day."

Erwin sighs. "Levi, some optimism wouldn't kill you."

"Levi is his usual cheerful self then?" Hange giggles from where they are fastening their horse's bridle on.

[bokutosworld]

home sweet home | hq boys with their kids! 

character/pairing: msby black jackals boys with their kids - hinata, atsumu, bokuto, sakusa!

wc: 1.5k words, pure fluff!

summary: when they finally get a much-deserved break from volleyball, there's nothing that the boys want more than to spend time with their little ones. but what do they do if you're not around for the day?

a/n: inspired by my fave korean show the return of superman! i just cant stop imagining how the boys would be like if they were left on their own with their kids<3 hehe

part two with schweiden adlers trio here!

---

HINATA SHOYO He wakes up feeling warm. When Hinata opens his eyes, the first thing he sees is the sight of his adorable son laying peacefully on his chest. He brings his hands to ruffle his messy hair, the little boy pressing his cheeks closer to his father's body. It's been a long time since Hinata felt relaxed in the morning, and he honestly thinks that he could stay in this moment forever. But after a few minutes, he finally gets up and stirs the little boy in his arms awake.

"Dad? Where's mom?" Seiji asked, his bright, inquisitive eyes mirrored Hinata's own and he felt proud that his son took after him. He explains that you were off to your parents' house for the weekend and this makes the five-year-old pout. Despite looking a lot like him, Hinata knew that Seiji was a mama's boy and, though he wouldn't admit it, sometimes felt jealous that you were hogging all of his son's attention. So he was over the moon to have time alone with the boy.

"But don't worry! The two of us will have a great all-boys weekend," he declares. All of a sudden Hinata lifts Seiji over his head and places him on his shoulders. The little boy then got excited, starting to loosen up and laugh as they ran out to the living room. "Wow, look at that, Seiji, you are flying!"

With his dad's hands carefully holding him tight, Seiji felt safe and extended his arms in the air as they playfully circled the house. When they got tired, the two boys collapsed on the sofa. Hinata reached over his to mini-me, wiping some sweat that has formed on his forehead, "Are you hungry now? What do you want dad to make for breakfast?"

Seiji looks up at his dad expectantly, waving his fists excitedly with a big smile on his face, "Can we do that again?" And Hinata happily complies, already looking forward to a great father-son bonding.

MIYA ATSUMU "Papa, can we pwease go to Uncle Osamu's shop today?"

This was the third time Atsumu heard the request from his daughter. The four-year-old has taken a strong liking to his twin, and while Atsumu mostly finds this endearing, he wonders if she likes Osamu better than him. He takes the little girl from her sitting position on the floor and sets her on his lap, brushing some strands of hair that have fallen.

"Aya, do you like Uncle Osamu more than me?" As if on instinct, the little girl shakes her head. Worried that she might hurt herself, Atsumu cups her cheeks to stop her movement, but only to be shocked to see that tears are threatening to spill from her doe eyes. Shit, he thinks. "Okay, darling. Don't cry." He brings her to an embrace in an attempt to calm her down. "Let's get you ready, huh. We'll ask free food from Uncle."

When the door to Onigiri Miya opens, Aya immediately goes to Osamu's side, slipping past the counter and running to his open arms. Osamu lifts her up, "Hello there, little girl. Do you want to cook with me today?" She beams and nods her head enthusiastically, waving a hand to her dad who was standing by the door. "Hey, 'Tsumu. Just take a seat wherever, we won't be long here!"

This was the fourth time this week that they have been to his brother's shop. At this rate, he might as well have Aya sleepover with Osamu and let her spend time with her cousins. He opens his camera and takes a selfie, along with a message that he sends to you. Back at Uncle Osamu's again. She loves food just as much as you, it reads. He hears a bell coming from the kitchen, followed by a pitter-patter of footsteps. When he looks up from his phone, he sees Aya running towards him holding a plate with a small riceball on it.

"Papa, look! I made it for you," she excitedly tells him. Atsumu is touched by the gesture, taking the plate to place it on the table and tacking his daughter in a hug. He peppers her cute face with kisses and Aya is giggling, her laughter fills the Onigiri Miya shop. Osamu smiles and takes a photo of the father and daughter.

"I'm so happy, Aya, thank you." Before Atsumu eats it though, he makes sure to take a photo of her masterpiece. Our little chef made this, he proudly captions it before sending it to you.

BOKUTO KOUTAROU When you left Bokuto alone with your two kids, he was confident that he can handle them on his own. But boy, was he wrong. The whole house has been turned upside down with the seven-year-old Naoki jumping all over the place, and the two-year-old Suki crying on her baby chair. Not to mention their golden retriever barking to add to the chaos.

Sighing exasperatedly, Bokuto approaches Suki first, taking her from the chair and swaying to calm her down. He's having a staring contest with the dog, Tama, as his eldest son continues to wreak havoc. Then an idea pops up in his head.

"Naoki, what do you think of taking Tama out for a walk?" The playful boy stops in his tracks, turning slowly to look at his dad. Bokuto moves closer to him and grins. He knows how the young boy has always wanted to walk the dog, only you were opposing in fear that he might let go of the leash. But Bokuto has complete trust in him, and if things go south, he could always chase the dog. He crouches to his son's level, looking at him in the eyes, "We'll keep it a secret from Mom. What do you--"

Before he could even finish his statement, Naoki was already putting on the dog's collar and leash. Bokuto smiles and walks to the kids' room to change Suki's clothes. He pulls out a baby pink dress and carefully dresses his daughter. He also pretties her up, tying her hair in two ponytails with pink ribbons. When they finish getting ready, the trio proceed to walk in the park.

He notices that Naoki is much more behaved and more mature this time, thinking that he definitely looks the part as an older brother. Feeling much more at ease, Bokuto walks with a spring in his step, subtly bouncing the little girl who is strapped to his chest. Suki giggles at his father's actions, and he can't help but kiss her forehead.

"Hey, dad," Bokuto hears Naoki quietly call out to him. He sees the big smile on his son's face and feels like a proud dad. "Thanks for letting me walk Tama." Oh, you bet he was going to brag to you about today.

SAKUSA KIYOOMI Sakusa and his six-year-old daughter, Shiomi, were currently taking a vacation at your parents' house. As much as you wanted to come along with them, work held you up and you had to send off your daughter and husband, wishing them a good time in the countryside.

It's been three days and the little girl has been enjoying time with her grandparents. Sakusa could feel his heart warming whenever he watches her helping her grandmother doing household chores or when she is sitting in the garden and reading a book to her grandfather. He knows how you never want to miss a moment of your daughter's life so he sends you random snapshots and videos throughout the day.

He was lounging on the tatami in the living room, a book in his hands, when Shiomi came running to him. The little girl tugged on his hand, "Papa, come with me! We're planting a tree!" Completely smitten by her, he puts down the book and goes along with her to the back garden.

Shiomi helps him put on some gloves and hands him gardening boots. "Wear these so your feet don't get dirty!"

As soon as he wears them, the two of them proceed to get their tools and start working in the garden. Time always seem to pass quickly when one is having fun, and before Sakusa knows it, they have planted three sprouts of trees and sowed vegetable seeds in the family garden. He glances at Shiomi who is still full with energy, her eyes shining as she proudly looks at her work.

Sakusa hurriedly takes out his phone. "Honey, come here." He beckons her, and removes his glove before wiping a towel to her face. "Let's show Mama what we did today."

Shiomi goes to the other side of tree, pointing at it before displaying the widest grin. Sakusa sets the front camera and their faces are shown on the screen. With the biggest smiles on their faces, he takes a photo and sends it to you, the caption reading: We missed you. Planting is fun!

[rrazor]

hq boys as "don't tell your mom" moments

from r/askreddit: fathers of reddit, in honor of father’s day, what was your “don’t tell your mother about this” moment?

bokuto your daughter's two and he occasionally sneaks her chocolates and says, “don’t tell mummy,” but she immediately runs to you and proudly shows them off every time.

akaashi one night, he's enjoying some ice cream after your four year old daughter went to bed. she comes downstairs and 'catches' him so he offers her a small bite. but since she was supposed to be in bed, he says, "don't tell mom." she assures him she wouldn't, "okay, papa! pwomise!!" after she goes up to bed and he's down on the couch, she sneaks in to the master bedroom where you're resting and tells you he had let her have some ice cream and that she's afraid of "sugar bugs" so could she please brush her teeth again. you just laugh at him the next day, finding it funny how your daughter ratted him out just to brush her teeth, something she wasn't very fond of doing anyways.

konoha one night when your son's about 8, when he's in bed, akinori's playing a video game. they had both been playing it but got stuck. akinori finally finds a secret passage, pauses the game, and goes upstairs to wake your son up. he tells him he's figured out where they were stuck, "sneaks" your son downstairs in a blanket (you knew what they were doing lol). they stay up after midnight on a school night, hiding under a blanket, to see where the hidden passage went.

kuroo your kid pretends to be sick so he doesn't have to go to school. he convinces you and once you're out of the house for work, he goes down the stairs and sees his dad making a coffee. he asks him what he's doing and why he isn't at work. kuroo says, "i could ask you the same." they stand in silence for a moment before he continues, "i won’t tell your mum if you don't." they spend their day off together.

kenma when your oldest is in middle school, he gradually buys computers and monitors for the kids (kuroo's kids come over after school sometimes) and himself. they'd all game together and always log off one hour before you got home. they rush all the chores in that one hour: teamwork at its finest.

daichi he's putting new roof shingles on. your son's asks if he could help. he jokingly says that if he could climb the ladder, sure. so your son climbs right on up and starts handing him shingles. you find out, coming home just as daichi helps your son down from the ladder.

sugawara most fridays, he works late with club supervision and extra grading so he buys the really unhealthy, but heavenly delicious takeout each night. your kids would stay up and watch movies with all the swear words in it while they shared the food with him.

kita your kids are wrapping christmas presents with him. when they get to yours, your youngest asks if it's a surprise. he tells her so and when she sees you, she runs up to you and says, "mummy, we got you a pwesent, it's not [the gift]!!" the two of you look at each other and laugh.

osamu when your 3 year old wakes up in the middle of the night, a couple times a month, instead of putting her back to sleep, he lets her stay up and do whatever it is he's doing no matter what. sometimes she falls asleep in minutes and sometimes she stays up for a couple hours. he loves it, and she does too. she's painted with him, heard books read aloud, watched movies and even baked sweets.

[akaashisupremacy]

Brimming with Hope

Summary: Having broken off your engagement for an arranged marriage with Gojo, your relationship is in shreds. As you two give your relationship a second chance, what does hope look like to two disillusioned lovers?  

Gojo Satoru  x reader

Multi-fandom Masterlist || HQ Masterlist || Ao3 version

Genre: fluff, angst, exes to friends to lovers (wc: 1.5k)

“I don’t think they’ve fully made up their mind about me.” Gojo Satoru confesses to Nanami Kento.

In between assignments and his students, Gojo finds Nanami at Tokyo Jujutsu Tech’s grounds. They’re strolling along one of the many wooden hallways when Gojo opens up about you, his ex-fiancee and his current lover.

“What makes you say that?” Nanami rarely involved himself in other people’s romantic entanglements. Too much work really.

Gojo shrugs and sighs, “It’s like their affection is platonic. They care about me as a person, but I’m not sure if they have romantic feelings for me.”

The latest development of his relationship with you has been nothing short of daunting. Your relationship, albeit not exclusive was running past the six month mark. The longer he stayed around you the more pressure he felt. Commitment is not his thing. Dating his ex is also not his thing. But you certainly are.

“Can you blame them?” Nanami snorts, “How does it feel to be at the other end of the uncertainty?”

Gojo scowls in silence, hands pressed deep into his pocket.

“Well if they’re going out with you and stuff, then that’s not platonic.” Nanami offers. “Just make sure you’re not just fucking around again. Some people deserve better, Gojo. Leave them alone if you can’t get your shit together.”

Gojo stops walking. Nanami’s words are harsh and cold, voicing Gojo’s ultimate fear about himself.

Gojo opens his mouth and closes it shut. Nanami raises a brow. He senses some hesitation.

“Everything we do feels more intimate. I’ve been with other people, but this feels so…so….deep.” he murmurs.

Nanami turns around and snorts, “It’s the feelings. You’ve caught feelings.”

“This relationship feels so temporary...just when I feel like I’ve settled in, I’m to be up on my toes knowing this isn’t going to last. I realized they eventually want a family, but not with me. Because that’s just not me. It feels like there’s a time bomb waiting to go off.” Gojo continues, his tone silent and mournful.

More than anyone, Gojo knows you deep desire to be married and have a quiet family life. It's something he doesn't want and it pains him to know that you'll eventually go your separate ways.

Nanami breathes out, waiting for Gojo to catch up with a few long strides, “You can’t have everything.”

“I don’t need everything. Just the things that count.” Gojo replies, walking by Nanami’s side.

“Then you have to look for a happy middle, for you and for them.” Nanami shrugs.

Gojo scratches his head. What can he do?

————————————————————————————— You walk out of the morgue to leave Ieri to her work. As you step out, you come face to face with Nanami, who looks surprised that you’re here.

“Didn’t expect you to be around Ieri’s lair.” he comments.

“I didn’t expect to have a casualty either.” you shrug, waving around a file.

You hardly ever see Nanami after graduating. The school grounds were big. Your schedules never line up. Neither of you were particularly close.

He silently looks around if Ieri is behind you.

“So you and Gojo…” he trails.

You roll your eyes and cross your arms, “Not you too! You know what, instead of asking me, you should ask Gojo and his commitment issues, for updates.”

Your voice rings louder on the empty walls than you intended.

“I did.” he replies.

“And?”

“Commitment issues with a capital “C” indeed.” Nanami states, as if the fact was self-evident. What’s new? You sniff.

“It’s unusual to see him so conflicted about you. You used to be his rock.” he adds.

Your eyes narrow, as if asking for more information. You were never really sure how Gojo felt about you when you two were younger. He seemed attracted during your brief arranged engagement, but his attention obviously flitted elsewhere after that.

Nanami relents, “When we were freshmen, you reminded him of home. He pretends not to be homesick all the time. He’s not very good at hiding it when he talks about you.”

“Well, that feeling didn’t last, did it?” you murmur just loud enough for Nanami to hear.

The outside of the morgue has always been a little dark. You wished the lights were dimmer because you know Nanami is observing you.

“Not to defend him, but he was so wrapped in you and your engagement that he needed to find who he was outside of that. He likes attention, too. Can’t deny that. But his affections were sincere for a time.” he says, “I don’t know where his feelings stand right now. This isn’t to give you false hope, but he can be in love, even though it’s against his greater instincts and experience.”

He bows briefly to excuse himself. He needs to head in.

“But you already know that deep down. Out of all of us, you know him the longest, and I would argue, the best.” he adds.

You're left outside stunned by his words. Out of all his surviving friends, you assumed it was Nanami who knew him better than everyone else. It was you. You knew him best, even when Gojo wasn't by your side.

You smile a bit. There are some bonds broken romances can't break.

———————————————————— On a train home from your assignment, you find the bullet train crowded as usual. Rush hour is the bane of your existence in Tokyo.

As you try to find an empty seat, you’re surprised to find Gojo opening some sort of regional snack (again).

“How is it that you have so much time for souvenir shopping?” you groan in comment.

“It’s nice to see you, too.” he offers the seat next to his.

You plop down beside him, distracted. You think back to what Nanami said earlier. What was it that Nanami said? That you were Gojo’s rock? What did that mean really?

He tries to offer you some food. You wave him off dismissively. After gathering your thoughts, you decisively turn to him.

“I just want to know,” you swallow, “How did you feel about me when we were kids.”

With his mouth ajar, he blinks. Where was this coming from?

“Why?” he instinctively asks.

You purse your lips, “I’ve been meaning to ask for the longest while. I want to know your answer.”

He leans back into his seat and puts his food down in concentration.

“I thought I knew what love was and it came in the form of you. It’s kind of dumb. What would a teenager know about that kind of stuff?” he shrugs, “I liked the idea that you liked me. You were someone who supported me. You were there for me. You were generous with your time and affection.

“Looking back it’s just infatuation, isn’t it?" he asks rhetorically.

“You sounded naive.” you say, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

He chuckles, “Who wouldn’t be at that age?”

“And sincere.” you followed up with a smile.

Gojo turns away from you. He sees glimpses of your early teenage years when he sees that smile. It was the smile you wore when he visited you at your clan’s home and helped out with your chores. You liked it when he would carry the firewood you gathered from the forest.

“...you made me feel so grown up, like I had my life together. Not everyone liked who they were engaged to, but I really liked you and you had believed in me so much.” he murmurs, “I felt so lucky to be able to marry you one day. I was literally brimming with hope. But that was 13 years ago.”

You both get off the train. The crowded station greets you both. Although you walk side by side, it is too easy for the crowd to sweep you away. You hold onto his sleeve. He doesn't notice.  

You try to say goodbye when you make it out, but he seems distracted. You begin to walk away.

“You’re not saying goodbye?” he asks, startled.

“I did, but you didn’t mind me.” you smirk with your arms crossed.

“Sorry. There’s a lot going on in my mind.” he nods, walking up beside you.

He leans in to plant a kiss on your cheek. You pull away.

“We’re in public,” you remind him. Gojo isn’t public with you on anything.

He kisses you anyway, pressing his lips on your cheek. You’re surprised but not unpleasantly so. His kiss is long and lingering. You embrace him with your arms around his waist. You briefly close your eyes to drown out the noise of the station.

Gojo can feel his heart racing a thousand kilometers per second. His shoulders relax. It's strangely freeing to be able to kiss you in public.

He knows he’s not into commitment, but whenever he sees you, he questions myself.

“I have to go now.” you bid softly.

I love you. He holds back. He waves carefully to not let his words escape his mouth. He’s not fifteen anymore. He should know better.

Gojo begins walking back to Jujutsu Tech. Being able to kiss you goodbye made him feel so grown up, like he has his life together more than he actually does. It makes him feel, once again, that he is brimming with hope.

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

I wrote this as a follow up for another Gojo x reader fic who used to be engaged. Check out the other parts!

Part 1 || Part 2 || Part 3 || Part 4 || Part 5 || Part 6 || Part 7 || Part 8

Comment or message to be added to the taglist! Or write down some comments about your feelsssss

Series Taglist: @tokyo-love-hotel@samkysnks@herownescape@cherrianne192@shamelessdonutsludgebanana@kageyamakock@shirostrbl@luvang3l@cloudsinthecosmos@httpjungoo @saturnki  @itstheee-ha-chan@gucci-froggy @soy1melk @dora-the-grownup @cherryonigiri @fiona782

If you’d like to continue being part of my taglist (JJK or Haikyuu), please let me know! I also write oneshots for both fandoms and soon I’ll be doing BSD too!

[rocorambles]

Reminiscent

Pairing: Daichi x Reader

Genre: SFW, 5+1, Soulmate/Reincarnation AU, Angst (there is technically a character death, BUT THERE’S AN ULTIMATELY HAPPY ENDING, I SWEAR), Fluff 

Prompt: You woke me up at 3 in the morning for this?

Summary: 5 lifetimes Daichi and you just weren’t meant to be and the 1 lifetime you finally found your happy ending together.

Author’s Note: This is my contribution for my HQ Discord Server’s SFW collaboration. There are so many talented writers on the server and I highly encourage you to check out the collaboration masterlist here to see how everyone decided to run with this spicy prompt. (Masterlist goes live December 1st!)  

Tagging @sawamooora  since I accidentally scarred her by making her read only the section where there was a character death without the heads up...OOPS, so I guess you can have your happy ending now~

I.

When Daichi meets you in this first lifetime, he can’t help but notice just how different you are from him and he stares at the luxurious fabrics beautifully accentuating your figure, wishing he could wipe off the meticulously and elegantly layered on makeup and see more of your bare face, wanting more than anything to know who you are beneath the graceful and well-mannered smiles and bows you grace the court with. But when he looks down at himself and sees the memories of crimson blood splattered all over his skin and robes, hears the sound of his sword piercing flesh, remembers the way your father enthusiastically thanks him for another job well done as a flash of fear races across your eyes at the corpse of proof he drags in, it’s all too apparent just how different the worlds you live in are. 

And really, that should have been it, he should have stopped himself right then and there, stopped thinking about you, stopped his gaze from trailing after you when he sees you roaming around the clan property. But his heart has different plans and here he is, a well respected samurai who works underneath your father, pining after you, a clan leader’s daughter, someone already betrothed to the son of a neighboring clan, someone much too pure and innocent for his blood soaked hands. 

He smiles when he sees your posture relax, your body slouch in relief when you think no one is watching you, no pretenses and facades to keep up when it’s just you, unaware of the brown eyes watching you. He clenches his fists so hard his nails threaten to break skin when he hears your secret anguished sobs as he guards your bedroom the night after you meet your fiance for the first time and realize you’ve been doomed to a life with a man who’ll never love you, a man who doesn’t see you as anything more than a political tool. He dreams of a life where he can whisk you away, a life where there would be no consequences if the two of you ran off to live a peaceful, happy life together far far far away from the cruel and cold world of money and power you’re both entangled in. 

But there are consequences and he lives with the constant shattering of his heart as he watches the light dim in your eyes as you continue courting your fiance, the cool indifferent look you wear on your face throughout your own wedding ceremony, the way you seem like just a shell of the vibrant young woman he once knew and fell in love with. And yet, he doesn’t do a thing, remaining faithfully by your father’s side and serving your clan for the remainder of his days.  

II.

Something jolts inside of Daichi when he sees you in the second lifetime and he can’t help but feel like there’s something familiar about you, something nostalgic about the situation you’re both in as you humbly bow before helping him dress and get ready for the busy day of meetings he has. And you watch in awe as you dutifully trail after him, making sure all his needs are attended to, amazed by just how hardworking, intelligent, and kind the young lord is, so different than the stories you had heard of royals. Not once does he ever treat you as anything less than an equal, not once does he ever lay an unwanted gaze on you, let alone a finger and you find yourself jumping to please him and aid him out of something more than just a sense of responsibility as your heart flutters from just his presence. 

You feel honored by how much he entrusts you with when it’s just the two of you in his room and you patiently listen when he throws his disciplined manners out the window, grumbling and ranting about the power-hungry ploys of his fellow royals, the way greed and privilege have corrupted them, how he can’t trust anyone anymore. But when he wonders if he needs to change, to adapt in order to thrive, you surprise the both of you with your vehement outburst as you blather on about how he’s perfect the way he is. And then there’s silence as the two of you look away, both your faces heating up at the hidden message in your words, a message so incredibly inappropriate considering both your positions and the time you live in. But before you can open your mouth and stutter out an apology, you freeze at the warm smile Daichi sends your way, heart racing at the heartfelt, but quiet thank you he utters in response. 

Of course nothing happens after that. This is real life after all and Daichi is far too respectful of his family and their reputation, far too noble to smear his clan’s name with taboo affairs, far too kind to hurt his future bride despite the fact that he’s never even met her yet, doesn’t know the first thing about her other than her name, to pursue something just for his own pleasure, his own satisfaction, something that could potentially harm so many others. And you understand. After all, these are the reasons you fell in love with him, and you’re just happy to be able to remain by his side for the rest of your days despite the lancing pain in your chest every time you see him with his wife, with his future children, living a life where you just exist on the sidelines, watching and longing for something you know you’ll never have. 

III. 

In the third lifetime Daichi meets you in, he can’t understand the regrets of a missed opportunity he feels when you introduce yourself to him, welcoming him to the neighborhood with a basket of freshly baked goods. He knows he should smile, graciously accept your kind (and delicious smelling) gifts and he does, but as he bites into the still warm cookies after you leave, the image of the gold wedding band around your finger is branded in his mind. 

In a small rural community like yours, you’re bound to run into each other, especially since your farms are right next to each other and he thinks you look ethereal each morning with the sun rising behind you, a soft golden glow framing you as you gather eggs, milk the cows, and water the crops. But there’s a sense of bitterness he can’t explain when your husband joins you, a hulking stoic figure besides you as he helps you on the fields, and he turns his back on the two of you to tend to his own chores. 

There’s nothing “wrong” with your spouse, nothing Daichi can truly fault him for and if he’s honest, if Ushijima wasn’t your husband, he’d have only respect and admiration for the man. He certainly can’t complain about how he treats you and something bittersweet churns inside of him when he sees Ushijima’s usually stern face soften whenever you’re around, when he sees the way Ushijima’s broad shoulders relax whenever you affectionately hold his hand. And although he internally chides himself at night in private when he dreams of what it would be like to be in Ushijima’s shoes, he can’t help but feel relieved, glad that you’ve found someone who loves and treats you well. 

But he laughs the silly thought away. Of course you had found someone who loved you. Why wouldn’t you have? And yet that night he dreams of your face, dressed in a beautiful silk robe better suited for the historicals eras of Japan, seated next to someone he somehow knows is your husband, but there’s only loneliness in your eyes and he wakes up with tears in his eyes, unsure why he’s crying, why he’s hoping you never feel alone ever again. 

IV. 

Daichi should be scared of you when he meets you in the fourth lifetime, but although he’s certainly wary of you, staring at you with his beady eyes from the branches high above your head, he can’t help the curiosity he feels when he sees your small furry body try to leap and paw at him despite how far the distance between the two of you is. And despite all his natural instincts, he feels himself relaxing, cawing teasingly at you as you tire yourself out, fluttering down a few branches closer to you when you give up and just sprawl out on the floor, tail flickering back and forth in interest as you watch him draw nearer. But before he can get any closer, he hears a human voice calling for you and the two of you lock eyes before you rush back to your owner and even after your body squeezes through the little cat door that had been built in the front door, he can’t help but watch your home closely, wondering if he’ll see you again. 

To his delight he does see you again, every single day as a matter of fact. On sunny days, he spreads out his wings and swoops down to meet you when you lazily curl up at the base of his tree and sometimes the two of you just lay there together, basking in the warmth of the beautiful day, sometimes the two of you take a stroll together, you trotting down the sidewalk as he flits from tree to tree beside you. He’s learned that rain and water in general don’t sit well with you and on gloomier days he glides over to the outside of your favorite window, peering through the glass and cawing warmly when you jump up and curl up on the windowsill, his beak and your nose pressing against the glass across from each other. 

But time is limited, especially for a crow like himself, and as you grow bigger and stronger, he begins to lose his appetite, begins to struggle flying for as long or as well as he used to. And although neither of you can speak to each other, there’s an intuitive understanding as you tone down your playing and spend his last remaining days just laying side by side, his feathered body curled up in the warm plush of your fur, your body and tail wrapped protectively around him until he passes away peacefully. 

V. 

Daichi only has himself to blame for the fifth lifetime being a complete loss. You had caught his eye in a way no girl ever had before when he saw you skillfully racing across the court at the Tokyo training camp. He can’t explain exactly what draws him to you. Sure, you’re attractive, but he’s been around other beautiful girls before, hell Shimizu is the manager of his team and even she’s never captivated him like this. Maybe it’s the fact that he hasn’t seen many talented female volleyball players up close before? But that can’t be it. No other female player in the room even remotely peaks his interest. No...it’s something deeper than that and he swears it feels like there’s an invisible thread tying the two of you together. 

He watches and watches until a lanky arm is thrown over his shoulder, a sly voice purring in his ears. 

“Sa’amura. My, my, my. I thought a country bumpkin crow like you would have better manners than to gawk at our pretty Tokyo girls like a creep.” 

Daichi scowls at the messy haired Nekoma captain, but his face heats up when he realizes how strange he probably looked just staring at a gym full of female athletes. But before he can spout any excuses, Kuroo hums in interest as he follows Daichi’s gaze to see who he had been looking at so intently. 

“Well well well. I guess birds do attract each other. You have some good taste, Sa’amura. She’s a great player, although I personally think she would have been a better fit at Nekoma than Fukurodani. She moves a lot like a cat, doesn’t she? But if you want to get closer to her, try talking to Bokuto. They’re both pretty close.” 

A cat? Daichi wordlessly waves goodbye to Kuroo who’s strolling away before turning his attention back to you. And he’s surprised to see that there’s something eerily correct about Kuroo’s observation, something about your feline movements that nags at a deep unconscious thread inside of him, and it’s unnervingly easy to imagine you with a tail swishing back and forth behind you, to imagine you with soft ears and claws. But when he blinks, there you are, completely human once again, celebrating a point your team had scored, no cat appendages anywhere in sight. 

He doesn’t take Kuroo’s advice, never approaches Bokuto to learn more about you, and he leaves training camp without even exchanging one word with you. But from time to time for the rest of his life, he’ll dream of you, dream of a friendly cat he feels like he used to know and he’ll wake up with a pang of regret, wondering what would have happened if he had the courage to talk to you all those years ago. 

VI. 

Daichi groans, nursing a hangover as he groggily sits up in bed and turns off the ear splitting alarm. Thank God for humans and their habits, his brain not needing to work at all as he methodically brushes his teeth and throws on his uniform. But as he makes his way to the precinct, he pauses at the corner of the street, intrigued by the sight of a newly opened cafe. There’s technically coffee at work and the smarter and financially responsible choice would be to just wait and drink the free caffeinated liquid, but something draws him into the quaint storefront and before his mind can even catch up to his body, he’s already pushing open the door and walking towards the counter. 

He hears your voice ring throughout the small store, telling him you’d be with him in just a moment and he takes his time to peruse the menu, the soothing scent of coffee whetting his appetite and making the pastries in the glass case look even more appealing. He’s narrowed down his options to either the chocolate frosted donut or the coffee cake when he sees you approaching from the corner of his eyes and he smiles only to freeze when he sees your face.

“Do I know you-”

“You look familiar-”

Both of you start and stop talking at the same time and there’s an awkward silence before you both burst out laughing. As you prepare his order, both of you throw out possibilities of where you may have met before, but nothing pans out, and you both shrug your shoulders as you hand over the paper wrapped pastry and piping hot coffee. It’s a big world with tons of people. Perhaps both of you had met someone who looked similar to the other. But as Daichi sips his coffee and as you wait in the cafe for your next customer, neither of you can stop thinking of the other, wondering if you really hadn’t met before. 

And maybe it’s that curiosity that leads Daichi to regularly return to your cafe on a daily basis, that leads you to always perk and brighten up when he walks through your door. Daily morning coffee runs before work is how it all starts, but pretty soon you’re seeing him at all times of the day. Sometimes he pops in to order a sandwich and some chips for lunch. Sometimes he’ll plop down at one of your small tables, plugging his laptop into an outlet as he works for hours on end even on the weekends. And sometimes, when there’s no one else in the store, when you’re technically closed, you’ll join him, sharing a new dessert you’re testing for the menu with him and chatting away into the wee hours of the night. 

So really, it shouldn’t be a surprise when Daichi nervously enters the cafe right before closing one day, making sure no other customers are around before asking you out on an official first date. And even though you knew that the day where you two would discuss what your relationship exactly was would come soon, your face still heats up. But you eagerly nod, fingers instinctively interweaving with his when he hesitantly reaches to hold your hand and as the two of you walk hand in hand to the restaurant he’s chosen for dinner, you both can’t help but feel like your hands fit perfectly together, like you were made to be with each other. 

Romantic candlelit dinners become more frequent casual affairs after a while and the two of you find yourself cuddled up on a couch in comfortable clothing, eating a meal the two of you had cooked together more often than not. You make fun of Daichi’s bachelor closet, dragging him to go shopping and ignoring his squawking when you pay for all his new clothes while he’s still changing in the fitting room. He teases you for how flustered you get when you see him in his cop uniform, purposefully striking a cheesy pose in the doorway only to bend over in a belly bursting laugh when you just wordlessly gape and stutter at the sight. 

But the change that both of you love the most is never having to sleep alone again and your bodies slot together perfectly like two puzzle pieces when you curl up with each other in bed, letting sleep, body warmth, and rhythmic breathing lull you both into the best nights of sleep you’ve ever had. 

Well, usually that would be the case.

Daichi grumbles as you insistently shove his body until he begrudgingly sits up in bed, rubbing the sleep from his eyes and batting away your hands that keep on nudging him awake. He looks at you in confusion and maybe the slightest hint of irritation at being woken up at such an ungodly hour of the night, but the bright smile you flash his way softens him and he internally groans about how weak he is for you as he stumbles out of bed, sleepily accepting the bundle of clothes you throw at him and haphazardly throwing them on. 

He lets you drag him out the door, shivering a bit as the cold night air wakes him up and he holds you close to him, his cop instincts keeping him alert as he continuously scans the area. You live in a safe neighborhood, but it is the middle of the night and he’d be a hypocrite to not be aware of his surroundings when he’s always warning people not to be out by themselves late at night. But the two of you make it to what he assumes is your final destination unscathed and his jaw drops in disbelief when he sees that you’ve brought them to the neighborhood park. 

“You woke me up at 3 in the morning for this?” 

You giggle at his outburst, slapping his arm in mock anger as you pull him to sit beside you on one of the benches. 

“I checked the weather and tonight’s supposed to have the clearest skies for stargazing! And you and I both have off tomorrow, so it seemed like perfect timing. Don’t be such a grumpy old man.” 

And how can Daichi possibly be angry when you’re practically radiant, the soft glow of the stars illuminating your features as you stare up in awe, holding his hand and snuggling into his side as your free hand points at the different constellations you recognize. But the two of you freeze when you hear rustling nearby, letting out a sigh of relief when only a stray cat stalks out from behind a bush and you both watch in amusement as it regally walks towards your bench before plopping down with its stomach bared right at your feet. 

But just as Daichi is about to reach down and accept the invitation to pet the furry creature, a loud squawk echoes throughout the area and suddenly the cat is leaping to its feet as a crow swoops down and hops around on the ground just a few feet away. And the two of you watch in amazement as the two creatures play with each other, paws lazily batting at the bird while wings spread wide and teasingly brush against a whiskered face in a practiced friendly dance. 

It should be just a light hearted scene, maybe heartwarming at most, but to the two of you it’s more than that and your hearts ache, tears streaming down both your faces in a strange combination of soul crushing sorrow and gratitude for the present. But why is it so sad? Why are you both crying? The two of you shakily laugh, apologizing for your strange behavior as you hurriedly try to wipe the salty streaks away, but they don’t stop, only growing worse and turning into body wracking sobs as pain, loss, regret, and unrequited love built over what feels like multiple lifetimes slam into both of you all at once. 

It hurts. It hurts. It hurts. 

But like magic it all instantly fades away when the two of you find yourselves tightly wrapped in each other’s arms, your body somehow now in Daichi’s lap as you bury your tear stained face in his chest, his arms wrapped around you in a bone crushing hold as he buries his face in the top of your head. And the two of you just stay like that for a bit as the calming breeze swirls past you, as the creatures and sounds of the night begin to fade away, as the morning sun begins its ascent into the sky, all the while exchanging words of love with each other, words of gratitude for finding each other. 

And when the tears have finally all been wiped away and the sun is shining brightly down on both of you, the two of you share a smile before Daichi is ushering both of you back home, jokingly whining about immediately going back to sleep once you both return home, both of you animatedly bantering as you walk away, ignorant of the way the cat and crow lay curled up beside each other, both their eyes never straying from your retreating figures until you’re out of sight. 

Neither of you ever discuss that night again. Neither of you ever try to understand and explain the chaotic overwhelming mess of emotions that had bombarded both of you. But every now and then, even after the two of you exchange vows, even after your shared home is filled with children’s laughters and voices, the echoes of that night follow both of you in your dreams and you wake up with tears in your eyes and a lingering ache in your hearts. 

But all it takes is a quick glance to your side, the reassurance that both of you are together, right where you belong, to completely snuff out any negative emotions and you let the comforting warmth of love lull you back into slumber, smiles gracing both your lips as Daichi holds you just a bit closer and tighter to him, as you snuggle just a bit more until you’re firmly tucked underneath his chin.  

[hueswrites]

hq kinktober [day2] hanamaki & matsukawa

main hq kinktober masterlist

hq kinktober [day2] hanamaki takahiro & matsukawa isseis - double penetration

includes:

simultaneous vaginal & anal sex, all consenting, established relationship, alcohol use

wordcount:

4,136

~~~

You lay in bed with your boyfriend, basking in a blissful post-sex haze while you let your eyes rest. The "ding" of a text coming through Takahiro's phone grabs your attention.

"I'm getting drinks with Issei," he says, rolling out of bed.

You glance at the time. "It's two in the afternoon," you state, giving him a disapproving glare.

"And?" He says, going to the bathroom to take a piss with the door wide open.

"I really wish you would find a job. Is Issei off today or something?"

"Nah. He had a shitty day and his dad let him leave early, so I'm going to keep him company."

You roll your eyes. "Must be nice working for daddy. Why don't you see if you can get a job with him?"

"He actually did say they need someone in the crematory, but I'm not burning up dead people for a living. Besides," he turns to look at you and winks. "You know you love having me here to cook, clean, and fuck you senseless at all hours of the day."

You roll your eyes. He had a point.

~~~

Takahiro finds Issei at the bar, halfway through his second beer and looking absolutely miserable. They greet each other with a nod and Takahiro takes the seat next to him. The bartender is is already cracking a bottle open of Takahiro's usual order, which happens to be the same exact beer Issei preferred to drink. He takes a good, lengthy sip then sets the frosty bottle down with an audible sigh of delight. He looks over at Issei. "Wanna talk about it?"

Issei groans. "No. I just wanna drink." He takes a sip of his beer.

Takahiro unzips his jacket and saunters it off his shoulders, then places it onto the empty stool beside him. He looks up at the top shelf of liquors behind the bar and racks through his brain for something to talk about that would help get his friend out of his slump. "Oikawa's visiting next week. Have you talked to him? You know that'll be a good time. Always is."

Issei only sighs in response. Well, shit. He was really down in the dumps. "I need to get laid, Makki," he grumbles.

Takahiro raises his eyebrows. "What happened with that one foreign chick? Thought you and her had a good thing going on."

"She found someone else. Said she felt like she was fucking the grim reaper and thought I'd end up giving her a curse from one of the dead bodies in the funeral home," he drops his head down onto his forearms and hides his face. "Said she couldn't get the image of dead, shriveled dick out of her head when we hooked up."

Takahiro laughs. "That's fucking weird," he says. "You don't even see the bodies. You just sell the caskets and help families through their grieving."

"Yeah, I know," he groans out in frustration. "I have a decent job making decent money and even have my own place... I guess that's the limit on the amount of good things I'm allowed to have in this life."

Takahiro scoffs. "Don't say that. You're doing really good. Shit, look at me. I've been unemployed for three months now, freeloading off my girlfriend-"

"Your hot girlfriend,"

Takahiro ignores him, continuing, "I'm in a shit ton of debt, and I've now watched every single season of that stupid Korean drama my girlfriend insisted would inspire me to change my life Honestly, that shit made me feel worse."

Issei manages a laugh and lifts his head back up, dark wavy hair now a tousled mess over his forehead. "Yeah, dude. You sound like a bum. Why does she keep you around?"

"I cook and I clean. And," a smug smirk lifts the corners of his lips, "the sex is amazing."

Issei's head drops back down onto the bar top. "Fuck you," he mumbles into the sleeves of his shirt.

"You know, she is a model and a personal trainer. There's no way she doesn't have any single, cute girl friends that would be willing to hook up."

Issei sits back up and finishes his drink, the idea now seeming to lift his spirits. "If you could find someone that'd be interested in a gloomy, boring guy like me, then I'll pay your tab-"

Takahiro smiles and chugs the rest of his beer, then locks onto the bartender. "Another round on this guy's tab, please," he shouts.

Issei chuckles. "You better work some magic, asshole."

~~~

Takahiro returns home to your apartment to find you in the living room, drenched in sweat and in the middle of giving one of your online fitness classes. As you go through the motions of squats and burpees he takes a moment to admire the way your ass jiggles and resists the urge to give it a smack. You would kill him if you did such a thing in front of her clients, and probably withhold any sort of physical intimacy from him as punishment. It's amazing that you even have the energy to workout after your earlier exertion with him in bed.

He decides to make himself comfortable on at the kitchen counter and pulls out his phone, scrolling through your list of friends on Facebook. He didn't know half the people on your list, and he was pretty sure you didn't know them either. It made sense that a popular, attractive young woman such as yourself had so many connections. When the two of you started dating, you warned Takahiro about the amount of attention men (and women) gave you. It didn't bother Takahiro one bit. He loved knowing someone as attractive and talented as you was all his.

Issei may have had the career and the independence, but to Takahiro, you were all he needed. He loved to please you. The cooking and cleaning was no chore to him. You allowed him to stay at your apartment expecting nothing but his love and respect in return. And great sex. You were definitely just as kinky and open-minded as he is.

As his thoughts focused on you, he found himself remembering the early days of your relationship. He met you two years ago at a bar when Oikawa had been in town visiting for the holidays. Both he and Issei were instantly attracted to you. Oikawa noticed their attraction to you and was able to get your number in the blink of an eye. Imagine her disappointment when she learned that neither of the two numbers that texted her the next day belonged to that gorgeous brunette with big brown eyes and a voice as sweet as honey.

He and Issei made a game out of trying to woo you. In the end, you fell for Takahiro's boyish good looks and charming personality. Not that Issei wasn't charming or good looking - you just thought Takahiro had much more going for him, with his talk of wanting to be an entrepreneur and successful business man, while Issei went right into working for his parent's funeral home.

Oh, how the tables have turned.

It's then that an idea pops into Takahiro's head. He brings up his text conversation with Issei.

He sends a text: "Wanna have a threesome with me and ___?"

Issei responds almost instantly: "You serious?"

Takahiro chuckles to himself. He replies: "Let me ask her. I'll get back to you."

~~~

After your class is finished, you shower and get yourself ready for dinner. The news plays on the TV in the living room adjacent from your dining area, but you're not paying attention. You're trying to figure out why your boyfriend is so unusually quiet. He's been on his phone since the two of you sat down to eat, only taking a bite every couple of minutes.

"Hey, Hiro," you start, irritation laced through your voice. "What's wrong?"

"Issei is lonely," he says.

"That sucks," you say through a mouthful of rice.

"He needs to get laid."

You raise a brow. "Okay. How are you going to help him with that?"

"What do you think about letting him join in on our fun?"

You spit out your food.

"What the hell are you talking about?"

He smirks, eyes still on his phone. "Would you fuck him?"

"Takahiro. I'm not even gonna answer that question."

Takahiro hums. "His dick is bigger than mine, you know."

Your face flushes red. "Are you really being serious right now?"

"Yeah. You know he's always had the hots for you. Don't you find him attractive? You did back then, I know that's a fact."

You pause as if to consider. "He's cute. I never liked his hair though. He needs to cut it."

Takahiro snorts. "Babe. Think about it. You already know each other, and you said having a threesome is on your list of sexual fantasies you want to try."

"How do you know about my list?!"

Takahiro skims over your question and continues. "So is that a yes or a no?"

"But he's your best friend."

"Yeah, and that's why it'll be fun!"

You really did want to check off having a threesome from your list.

You let out a huff and frown. "Let me think about it."

Takahiro beams and starts tapping away on his phone. "Okay, so is Friday good with you?"

"Takahiro!" You shout, shooting him your best crazy eyes. You grit your teeth. "I have a class Friday night. Let's do it Saturday."

Takahiro to Issei: She’s in. You free Saturday night?

~~~

Saturday finally arrives, and you and Takahiro are both getting ready to leave your apartment for the night.

"I'm gonna need alcohol before we do this," you said as you rolled on deodorant.

Takahiro is in the bathroom, brushing his teeth. "Aww, you nervous, babe?" he garbled through his spit and toothpaste.

"Yes, Hiro. You're gonna be watching your best friend fuck me."

"Issei and I are cool like that. Always have been."

Silence follows, and Takahiro looks at you through the mirror. You've stopped packing your things and are sitting on your bed, gazing off into space. He frowns. "You know you don't have to do this if it's making you uncomfortable. I'm not gonna force you to do anything you're not sure you want to do."

You look up and glare back at him through the mirror. "I know that, idiot," and then you smile. "I'm just being a brat."

Takahiro rinses his mouth and gives his hair one last comb through before leaving the bathroom and walking over to you. He bends down to give you a kiss and ruffles your hair with his hand. "I love my little brat. Wouldn't have you any other way."

You reach up and cradle his face in your hands. "Love you too."

~~~

The three of you decided to have drinks at the bar in the hotel's lobby Issei had paid for your night together. You told Takahiro that you would feel more comfortable away from home, somewhere that you could let loose and not have to worry about cleaning up afterwards.

The conversation had mostly been the two of them reminiscing on their high school and college years, with you slurping your drink and giggling in between their exchanges. "You guys really chose to go to the same college so you could remain friends?"

Takahiro idly stirs his drink, keeping his eyes on you. Your cheeks are flushed red and your eyes are glossed over, an obvious sign that you were pretty buzzed. You seemed to be enjoying yourself, even offering little flirty comments Issei's way here and there. Takahiro thought it was adorable.

"Once Oikawa and Iwaizumi went away, everything got really boring. Making new friends is a pain," Issei explained. "I don't think other people would be able to handle our sense of humor. We like to make jabs at each other, and other people take things too seriously."

Takahiro hums in agreement. "I hate when people can't take a joke."

You finish your cocktail and the tiny little hiccup that escapes your lips has Takahiro looking at you with adoration. "I don't think many best friends would be down to fuck the other's girlfriend, either." You giggle.

Both men blushed at your blunt observation. Takahiro cleared his throat. "Uhh, you wanna get the check and skedaddle, Issei?"

Issei swallowed the rest of his drink and slammed the empty glass down onto the table. "You always read my mind, Makki."

~~~

The three of you are stripping yourselves naked as soon as you enter the hotel room. You were the first one on the bed, waiting rather impatiently for someone to start giving you attention. Takahiro was quick to climb after you, having discarded his clothes onto the floor. He placed kisses all over your face and your neck, sucking onto your breasts and pinching your hips. You squirmed underneath his touch, curling your toes in delight.

Issei goes to sit in the chair at the side of the room, and the sound of air leaving the cushion as he plops down causes you and Takahiro to stop what you're doing and look up at Issei. "What are you doing?" Takahiro asks, confused.

"M'gonna sit back and watch you two," Issei says. "Lemme see how amazing fire crotch over here really is."

"Watch it, dickhead. I'm no fire crotch. My hair's strawberry brown, idiot." Takahiro growls, returning his attention back to you. He towers over you, eyeing you hungrily. "You ready for this, baby?"

~~~

Takahiro's got two of his fingers deep inside your cunt, pumping into your sloppy, wet heat with determination to get you all warmed up for what's to come. You feel the mattress dip behind you and shiver as a second pair of hands lands on your body. Issei finally had enough as a bystander and was ready to join the action. He presses his lips to your back, between your shoulder blades, and massages his thumbs into your hips.

"Feeling good, baby?" Takahiro mumbles into your ear.

"Mmhm," you nod, both of your hands coming up to rest on his shoulders. Issei hums and slides his hands up to caress your breasts. You lean your head back against him and sigh.

"You're so soft," he says behind you, giving your nipples a squeeze. You moan.

"Tell Issei how you want to be touched," Takahiro says as he continues to work his fingers down between your legs.

"Just keep touching me like that," you breath, voice shaky.

Takahiro slides his fingers out from you and pulls back just a bit, looking at you with dark, heavy eyes. He takes in the sight of Issei's large hands enveloping your breasts, the way you pant softly through parted lips, and the rise and fall of your chest just under your collar bone. The sight makes him groan. He leans back against the headrest and strokes himself slowly.

You take one of your hands and place it over Issei's to pull it away from your breast and down to your stomach. He takes the hint and brings his fingers down further to start massaging your clit. You can feel his length pressing into the small of your back, slight moisture from the tip sticking to your skin. His fingers spread your lower lips and he smears your juices over your hole, teasing your entrance.

"Show me how good you suck Makki's dick," he mumbles against your neck.

You oblige and lean forward onto your hands, pressing one down into the mattress on each side of your boyfriend's legs.

Takahiro watches with anticipation as you lower yourself down to his hard, swollen cock. You pause to tuck your hair behind your ears and the simple action makes his heart flutter. He lets out a pleased groan as you wrap your lips around the tip.

Issei dips two of his fingers into your cunt and you moan around Takahiro's cock. He responds by placing a hand on your head, encouraging you to take him deeper.

You swirl your hips against the palm of Issei's hands like a feline swaying her tail. Takahiro's cock is deep into your mouth now, touching the back of your throat. You press your tongue against the sensitive underside as you suck your way back up, tracing the vein that protrudes through his thin skin.

Takahiro groans. "Fuck, yes," he sighs, tangling his fingers into your hair. "You are such a good girl."

Issei's roused by the sight of Takahiro melting into the bed, and suddenly feels like the luckiest guy in the world for having such a generous friend. He inserts a third finger.

You feel so full and so content. The surge of love you feel towards your boyfriend has you removing yourself from his dick to lean forward even more and plant a tender kiss to his lips. "This feels so good, Hiro," you tell him.

He grins. "I knew you'd like it, babe."

You raise yourself to stand upright on your knees and turn to meet Issei's lascivious gaze. "Let me suck you off," you say, wrapping your fingers around his wrist to stop his hand from working you any further.

"Please do," he says with a smirk. He shuffles back and collapses onto the bed, spreading his legs invitingly.

You lean down and press a kiss to Issei's stomach, then open your mouth wide to take him in. He is larger than Takahiro, so you have to widen your jaw more than what you're used to.

Takahiro watches, sliding his fingers through your hair. "You're so sexy, babe," he says, then sits up and grabs a bottle of lube from the nightstand. He figures now is the time to start working your little pucker open. He comes to kneel behind you and pours a generous amount of lube onto your ass and spreads it through your crack. He takes a slicked up finger and circles it around your tight little hole, easing the very tip in and out as he goes. "God, I love your ass," he says before giving it a light smack.

"Her mouth is something else, Makki." Issei sighs, rolling his head back to rest against the headboard. His hip stutter and buck up into your mouth, hitting the back of your throat by surprise. You grab onto his thighs and muffle a choke. "Shit, sorry," he says, but you're quick to take him back even deeper. The tickle of your nose against his stomach has him groaning loudly.

Takahiro licks his lips and slowly presses one finger into your tight hole. "Tell me if it hurts," he says, pushing his finger past his first knuckle. He pumps it slowly, feeling your muscles loosen ever so slightly. You tense when he inserts the second finger.

"Wait," you tell him, removing yourself from Issei's cock. Takahiro stops and rubs your back softly as the sting of the stretch fades away. "Okay, go ahead."

Issei inches himself back a bit to sit more upright and grabs his cock with his hand. "I'm good for now, darlin'. Just focus on feeling good." You give Issei an appreciative smile before rising up to wrap your arm around Takahiro's neck.

"More," you whisper, pushing your ass back into his hand. Takahiro inserts a third finger and you contract around him, causing a low rumble to send vibrations from his chest into your back.

Issei is back to stroking his cock as he watches Takahiro fuck his fingers into your ass. You play with your clit, the action making your legs shake. Takahiro takes his free hand and pushes yours aside, inserting his own finger into your cunt. "More," you whimper, grabbing onto his forearm. He inserts another finger, and picks up the pace.

"You feeling good, baby?" He asks you.

"So good," you whine.

Issei groans, stroking his cock faster.

Takahiro nuzzles your chin and gives you a kiss. "You wanna try riding Issei first?" he mumbles.

You nod. Takahiro removes both his hands from your body and sits back to catch his breath. You move to straddle Issei's waist and take his cock into your hand. He places both of his hands on your hips and gives you a devilish little smirk. "Ever think you'd fuck a cock bigger than his?"

You snort a laugh through your nose.

"Fuck off," Takahiro retorts from behind.

You lower yourself onto Issei's length, the stretch sending little shockwaves of pleasure through out your body. He squeezes your hips and encourages you to keep lowering your self, watching your expression the entire time.

"How's she feel?" Takahiro asks, keeping his eyes on your cunt as it swallows Issei's cock.

"Fucking amazing," he breathes, slowing rocking his hips up into you. "Not sure how long I can last."

Takahiro moves forward onto his knees. He leans over you and kisses your ear. "Think you can take two?" he says.

"Yes, please."

Issei slides down the headboard just a bit so you can hover further forward over his chest and raise your ass. You feel a wad of lube drop onto your asshole and slide down between your cheeks. Takahiro smears the liquid around inserts his finger into your hole again, just to be sure you're still ready. He removes his finger and then presses the head of his cock to your entrance. He pauses. "You good?"

"Yeah," you breathe.

He slides in slow. You have to place your hand back onto his thigh to tell him to stop while you ease into the feeling of being stretched and filled in both holes.

"Deep breaths, baby," Takahiro says, watching the muscles in your back twitch. You inhale deeply, then exhale and relax.

"Okay."

Takahiro starts to move, and Issei follows. You simply hold yourself still while both men work on finding a rhythm that lets them move together comfortably. One of your hands comes down to rest under your belly button, and you swear you feel the bulge of Issei's cock inside you.

You try taking your mind off the slight discomfort your body is feeling at such an unnatural stretch. The squelching between your legs, Issei's labored breathing as he tries so hard not to cum, the rumble of Takahiro's deep voice giving you all sorts of little praises - "good girl, you feel so good, you're doing so well, I love you so much," and your own voice getting louder as any discomfort you were feeling melts into pleasure.

"I need one of you to touch me," you say through shallow breaths, your body shaking, your hands grasping onto their arms.

"Issei," Takahiro says, quickening his pace. "Make my girlfriend cum."

Issei obliges and presses his thumb to your clit, rubbing quick, tight circles. Your body tightens up around them as you cum, moans sounding like cries as your mind struggles to handle the intensity of your orgasm,

"Oh, shit," Issei groans. "I'm gonna cum."

"Cum inside," you urge.

"You sure?"

You nod, and Issei increases his pace. He grips your hips tightly and groans as his load spills inside you.

You lean forward and give him a kiss, which he can hardly return in his current state.

Suddenly you're yanked back by your hair and pressed against Takahiro's chest, his arm snaking its way around your waist to hold you against him firmly. Issei's cock leaves your body, and Takahiro gives you one good thrust, cumming long and heavy into your ass. He lets out a string of curses into your hair, holding you tight.

His chest is heaving, having emptied every last drop.

Your head spins and your thighs are numb. "Hiro... I need to lay down," you say, tapping your hand against his arm.

"Mm," is all he can mumble before letting you go. You crawl forward and curl up onto your side next to Issei. Takahiro falls to your other side and sandwiches you in the middle.

"Fuck, that was amazing," Issei says, running a hand through his damp, curly locks of hair.

Takahiro groans in agreement, pressing his palm to his forehead, eyes closed.

The three of you lay there, catching your breath.

Takahiro rolls onto his side to face you. "What'd you think, babe?" he asks.

You hum blissfully, eyes closed. "I loved it. Let's do it again sometime."

Takahiro gives your ass a squeeze in appreciation, then reaches over to slap Issei's chest.

"Ow," Issei says, opening his eyes to see Takahiro's hand hovering above his face. He raises one of his own arms and curls his hand into a fist, smacking it against Takahiro's.

You laugh. "Did you guys just fist bump?"

"Sure did," Takahiro says, grinning proudly.

You roll your already aching body over onto your stomach and stuff your face into the pillow.

"Idiots."

[more-stuff-of-pi]

Believe Because He is Good

a/n: I’ve been thinking of writing something like this and I read these beauties by @volleychumps and was inspired to just write out what was in my head. This is very much a self-comfort fic regarding my personal experience, ofc featuring my og hq mans :)

notes: y/e/n = your ex’s name. requests are open :) find my masterlist here

pairing: sawamura daichi x fem!reader | genre: angst (w/happy ending) | warnings: asshole exes, implied past abuse (emotional, manipulation, slight physical), implied panic/anxiety attack | word count: 2,395

Balls were bouncing off the court, slapping the wood as Karasuno wound down, practicing serves. Even Noya tried his hand at serving, the ball smacking into the net. Tanaka laughed at Noya, ceasing when a volleyball knocked into his head. The culprit, Hinata, squeaked as Tanaka scrambled after him, Noya roaring with laughter all the while, gripping Asahi’s arm as he in turn knitted his brows together. Tsukishima rolled his eyes as Yamaguchi hid a giggle behind a hand.

Despite the chaos of Karasuno, an immense feeling of pure joy washed over you as you stood in the doorway of the gym. Nothing felt quite like seeing the team together. Their bond and their energy always lifted your spirits. And, of course, the handsome captain was the cherry on top.

“Great work today, guys!” Daichi called out to his team, signalling that practice was well over. They started to casually saunter over, Suga coming to take his place as vice next to his captain. “We’ve got a practice -- Nishinoya, Tanaka, shut it -- we’ve got a practice match next week, so I wanna see you all working hard to be ready. Shimizu and Yachi left early to run some errands for Sensei, so please do your best in cleaning up. Alright, get to it!” Daichi clapped, releasing the group to their chores.

As the group dwindled, you watched as Suga tapped Daichi’s arm and jutted his head in your direction. Confused, Daichi glanced towards you and instantly his face melted from slight exhaustion into absolute adoration. He bid goodbye to Suga who clapped him on the back with a mischievous grin in return, causing Daichi to cough.

You giggled, waving to Suga whose grin widened as he threw a peace sign up before turning to do his part in cleaning up. Daichi joined you at your place by the door, lightly touching a hand to your hip, leaning down to peck your lips in greeting.

“Hi, Y/n,” he welcomed warmly as he smoothly laced your hands together as if it were second nature.

“Hi yourself,” you replied. “Shimizu told me you’d need some help cleaning today.”

He sighed and shook his head. “Still, you didn’t have to come.”

“No,” you agreed, entertaining a wicked grin, “but I heard the captain of this team was really hot so I just had to come see for myself.”

Daichi grinned at your teasing. “Well, you should see the captain’s girlfriend. I heard that she’s a real looker.”

“Mhmm,” you hummed, leaning in for another kiss which Daichi gladly gave. “So what can I help you with, Mr. Team Captain? Because with these boys you will most certainly need it.”

Daichi huffed out a laugh. “Yeah, you’re telling me.” He looked around, scanning the gym for a task you could take up. “Ah! You could take care of the water bottles, if you wouldn't mind.”

“Just dump them out, yeah?” Daichi nodded. “Seems simple enough. I’ll go do that and then when we’re done here we could go out for meat buns, maybe.”

“You struck another craving, haven’t you?”

“Your treat!” you teased in answer, snatching up the carton of bottles and escaping from the gym before Daichi could reply. Stepping out, you begin absentmindedly busying yourself with unscrewing the lids of each bottle as you make your way to the outdoor sinks. Focused on the task, you don’t notice the person in front of you until you’re crashing into them, effectively spilling the water you were on your way to empty. Well, that’s one way to do it.

“Oh, my gosh,” you crouched down, quickly picking up the bottles, “I am so so--” 

“Hi, Y/n,” the boy said, looking down at you with a tight lipped smile. He was a year your junior and also your ex. You had broken up with him at the beginning of summer vacation but had fortunately not seen him since, even through several months into the school year. You had foolishly hoped that your luck would continue and you would miraculously not ever see him again. But he was also a student at Karasuno and shared not only many of your extracurricular interests but also a handful of friends, of whom were responsible for setting you two up in the first place. What they didn’t know is that they were setting you up for disaster.

The relationship had started with no base friendship or really any genuine knowledge of the other besides the words of others from the grape vine. In retrospect, it was a plain bad idea. You two had fun at first but soon into your relationship, your boyfriend had begun pressuring you. He started with little things, subtly manipulating you until it was hard for you to recognize what your own boundaries genuinely were, as blurry as he made the lines. He was cunning and cornered you into situations you didn’t want to be in as easily as he could talk. He never complimented you, never made an effort for you, never validated you. Normally, you would stand up for yourself, speak out against this mistreatment, but something about him made you weak. And not in that head over heels kinda weak. The type of weak that drained you, that made you doubt yourself where you wouldn’t have before, that twisted your own strengths to look like hindrances.

It seems that even after months apart, he still had that same, nauseating effect on you.

“Hi, Y/e/n.” You forced a pretty smile, trying your best to stay polite and to ignore all of the sudden flowing emotions, not wanting to admit to him -- nor yourself -- that the damage he had done was still raw. “Sorry about that, I wasn’t paying attention to where I was going.”

“Still ever the clutz,” he laughed, something cruel and mocking.

You grit your teeth, smile impossibly tight. Whatever semblance of sanity you had left pleading for you to remain polite. “I’m sorry. Now if you’ll excuse me--”

He abruptly put a hand on your shoulder to stop you. “Where’re you heading?” The thinly coated politeness was easy to see through when you had suffered through the consequences of believing it.

“To rinse these.” You lifted the carton of now mostly empty water bottles. You went to move past him and tried to brush off his hand, but it only tightened, his thumb painfully digging into the dip between your shoulder and your collarbone. You inhaled shapely at the resulting shock and pain.

The movement reminded you of other times he had done this subtle control, other times he had wanted you to just shut up and comply, other times he coerced you, forced you--

“Why don’t I accompany you, hm? It’s been awhile since we’ve had the opportunity to chat. Let’s catch up,” he said with a toothy smile that even his eyes carried. The familiarity of this compelled you to learned submissiveness, breaths desperately trying to claw their way from your throat. You tried to swallow them down, but they were clawing faster than you could handle.

“I have a job to do, Y/e/n.” Your voice sounded weak, even to your own ears. You weren’t fooling him. 

His thumb dug even harder. “C’mon it’s the least you can do after purposely spilling that water all over me--”

“It was an accident--!”

He raised his other hand, going in to grab your arm -- to gain more control over you -- when someone caught his wrist.

“What do you think you’re doing?” A voice said quietly, eerily so. Despite that, under its influence and familiarity, an intense calm washed over you, wrapping you in comfort and relief.

Turning, the image that greeted you of Daichi’s wrath was that of an angel of death, beautiful and fearsome in all of his glory. In his eyes he held enough heat to burn the ends of the earth. And it was all for you.

Your ex shook his wrist from Daichi’s grasp, trying to subtly shake it out. His grip on your shoulder loosened though he didn’t pull away. “I’m just catching up with an old… friend,” he spat, his polite veil thinly covering his malice.

“I’ve never known old friends to hurt each other in greeting.” Daichi was fuming, to say the least. Whatever you had against your ex, you were amazed at his sincere idiocracy. That, or his delusionment that he could genuinely stand level to Daichi.

“I wasn’t hurting her,” he sneered, “I was just saying hi.”

“You could do that without putting your hands on her. I suggest you take them off.”

Your ex snorted and glanced down at you, his hand squeezing reflexively. “Are you really just going to cower there and let him speak for you? You were always telling me what to do, I’m surprised you’re actually staying quiet.” You instinctively flinched away from him, tears threatening to sting your eyes. You knew he was wrong, that he was trying to hurt you, but that broken part of you couldn’t help but believe him.

Daichi, from the corner of his eyes, saw your distressed state, the sight causing his heart to lurch. In his eyes, you were absolutely incredible. So kind and giving and loving and it angered him to no end that anyone would be able to make you believe anything otherwise. He loved you, so incredibly much and he wanted nothing more than to protect you and keep loving you.

“Get off of me,” you whispered, trying to convince yourself that your ex no longer had any control over you.

Your ex smiled wickedly, finally taking his hand off. “There you go, sweetheart. All you had to do was ask.”

“And all you had to do was leave,” Daichi seethed.

“Sorry?” Your ex asked lamely.

“You’ve had your stupid fun, now leave. I’m giving you five seconds.” You looked at Daichi and almost flinched away from the absolute hatred burning in his features. The fire that was there before had grown impossibly hotter.

He laughed. Your asshole ex actually laughed in Daichi's face. "And what will you do?"

"Stay longer than five seconds and find out." As much as Daichi was wonderful and patient and mature, if something really got him going, he threw that all out the window. And perhaps that was Daichi's one fault. That he would gladly abandon reason when it came to you.

"Really?"

"Daichi," you breathed, "he's not worth it."

"No," your boyfriend agreed, "he's not. But it would be so satisfying." Without warning, Daichi lunged and gripped the front of your ex's shirt, pulling the shorter boy roughly to be chest to chest with him. Your ex gulped audibly, his tough persona crumbling away far too easily at a single physical touch. Granted, an angry Daichi held all the fury in the world barely contained in a wall of muscle. Even the word intimidating would be too much of an understatement. "Don't you ever touch her again. Don't look at her, don't talk to her -- in fact, stay far away from her," he snarled, boiling over like an animal on the hunt. He threw your ex away from him. You watched as he stumbled, tripping over his own feet and landing harshly on his ass. Daichi took advantage of this, squatting down over him before leaning in and whispering, "your five seconds are long gone. You can either leave or stay and find out what I can do."

Your ex glanced between you and Daichi, defiance somehow still lingering in his features. Seeing Daichi, though, had given you some courage and confidence as being around him often did. You believed in yourself again, just enough to look your ex in the eyes.

"Goodbye, Y/e/n."

He scrambled from his place on the ground (where he surely belonged, you thought bitterly) and disappeared from sight. You gasped for air, relieved he was gone, the anxiety that threatened to overtake you flooding from your body.

Daichi immediately turned to you, worry and love replacing the wrath in his eyes. "Can I hold you?"

"Please," you gasped, tears that rarely ever came already spilling silently down your cheeks.

With your permission, Daichi rushed from his crouch, pulling you gently to him as his hand came up to card through your hair. You clung onto him, holding him impossibly closer as you sobbed into his chest. He pressed a soft kiss to the top of your head, pushing hair that had fallen into your face behind your ear. You leaned into his touch, revelling in the love and comfort he provided.

"I love you, Y/n," he said as you lifted your gaze to meet his searching one, "I love you so much. I'm sorry you ever had to deal with that but… but I'm so glad that I'm here with you."

"I'm glad you're here with me, too," you sniffled, wiping at your face. "Where's everyone else?"

"Gone," he replied and you noticed for the first time that he was already changed out of his gym clothes. Just behind you was his discarded bag. "Suga and Asahi went on ahead. I thought it was odd that you didn't ever come back in so I came to check on you."

"I'm glad you did."

Daichi smiled softly. "I am too."

"I'm sorry you had to step in. I don't know why I couldn't handle it, I usually can it's just-- he--"

"Hey, hey," he lifted his other hand to your face, holding you as he gently coaxed you to look at him, "you have nothing to be sorry for."

"But--"

"No buts. You did a great job. You can't just erase what he did to you or how he made you feel. You're allowed to react the way you did, Y/n. Okay?"

You nod. "Okay."

Daichi smiled warmly. "Good. Now how about we put those bottles away and we go out for meat buns."

"Your treat?"

Daichi laughed, the sweet sound bringing a smile to your lips. "Yeah, my treat." He laced his fingers through yours, still grinning.

"Daichi?"

"Hm?" he hummed.

"Thank you. I love you."

His smile softened as he leaned down, kissing you softly. "I love you too, Y/n."

And because it was him, because Daichi was so kind and charming and good, you truly believed him.

taglist: @samwrights (ily mom)

[kybabi]

heyo!! <3 congrats on 7K, you definitely deserve it! i’ve never done a matchup before, so i figured i would try one out?? but i definitely understand if you can’t get to mine; i bet there’s already a lot in your inbox ^^; feel free to skip, or don’t! thank you for all the great content ( ˘ ³˘)♥︎

~

i am an infp 9w1 female and my pronouns are she/her :) i swing both ways, so either gender is fine; i have more of a male lean if that helps though! my sun sign is leo, my rising is virgo, and my moon is capricorn (i have no idea what this all means but yeah,,) regarding my aesthetic,, i’m not really sure if i have one honestly ^^; i just wear a lot of comfy clothes because i’m in the house all day, but i can definitely see myself as someone who likes anime-core (is this even a thing?? i just saw it in the list of aesthetics on wiki KDKFKCKV). some of my hobbies including writing (i actually have a writing blog on here😼), digital art in my spare time even though i’m mediocre at it (which i should probably get better at, considering that that’ll probably be my major of some sort in college), and video games!! my favorite games are gacha games, rpg games, and first-person shooter! i’m really into almost every type of genre for video games, excluding horror—i really can’t stand it haha :’) my heart really can’t handle it. hmmm,, if i were to describe my personality it would definitely be shy. i’m definitely socially awkward, and find myself anxious everytime i’m around a group of people who i don’t know or when i’m presenting a project to the entire class (i’ve cried in front of the class before because i was so nervous...fun times!🥳) i’m on the more quiet side and prefer to listen to people talk, but i’ll definitely join in if the topic interests me (like video games, animals, etc.) unfortunately, i like to pretend that i’m naive person (just because it’s easier to make friends that way </3) and sometimes i am, but most of the time i can see through people pretty easily—pretty observant, to sum it up. i can also be pretty mean or snarky when i get annoyed/pissed off,, so yeah </3 i also have a tendency to get bored easily and i admit one of my toxic traits is just,, getting bored of people then ghosting them 🙇🏻‍♀️ i really don’t mean to, it just happens (especially if it’s a one-sided friendship/relationship,, i am LEAVING) regarding my perfect date, it’s not too extravagant; i’m not an adventurous or athletic person (i’m actually quite lazy), so a stay-at-home date or going to a restaurant (or a fast-food place works too) would be perfect! :o just being in the same room/hanging out together is honestly perfect quality time for me haha (my main love languages are quality time and words of affirmation!) even if we don’t have frequent dates, i’d definitely like to do something a bit new everytime we would go on a date, or else it might start to feel like a chore 😣</3 (p.s. my hq kinnies are yamaguchi and kenma if that helps haha)

i get the feeling that i’ve rambled quite a bit too much, so i’ll just stop :’) but yeah, that’s me! thank you if you do this and even if you don’t—i’ll still be looking forward to reading the other matches you come up with hehe<3 feel free to take your time and just ignore this! congrats on 7K again~

i match you with...

bokuto! + la lune - billie marten

i think bokuto would absolutely love to be around you and he wouldn’t mind doing most of the talking! he’s quite an interesting character and i don’t think you’d get bored of him too easily :)) but he’d love you with all of his heart!

matchup event: CLOSED!

[mugiwara-no-angel143]

Self Ship Games

Tagged by the Harem @mindninjax​ (added some More ) @theygottheircages​ , @yukiimanic​

Tags: @aurorahoneybuns​ , @lookslikeleese​ , @saratour​ , @enjifuckersupreme​

1st Ship Pro!Hero Kirishima x Steff

Kiri and I knew each other from the agency we both worked. He is a pro hero and I run the place. Fatgum  hired me on to overlook the comings and goings of the agency’s

I loved his outlook on life, he had an infectious smile and even when things were rough or crazy if he was there I couldn't be down.

I admired his heart and courage. He was so manly!

He admires my stubbornness, my level head and my natural leadership.

From the day I started he’d take note of things I liked

My favorite coffee or snack on my desk when I got to work in the mornings

Ordering lunch and never letting me pay

I’d repay him kissing his cheek and making him a blush as red as his hair.

One night he offered to help me with the grocery shopping for the agency. Fatgum likes to keep a full kitchen on site.

A little girl was crying , she got away from her mom and couldn’t find her.

Kiri went up to her, showed her his hero license, letting her keep it in her hands.

She smiled and took his finger in her small hand  as they walked together in search of her mom.

My heart melted and my ovaries exploded. I fell hard that night.

We finally started dating after weeks of flirting

When we brought it up to Fatgum he approved and yelled “FINALLY!”

Dates are always fun, golfing and bowling to diners and ramen shops.

Some nights are just us cuddled up (because cuddles with kiri are top notch, he radiates warmth) not paying attention to the movie we put on but I would be nestled on his chest listening to his heart beat lull me to sleep.

When he has to travel is always the hardest but he always calls to say good night, when he can’t call he still tries to sneak in an “I’m ok” and “I miss you” text because he knows I worry

Especially when he’s gone for weeks, but we make up for lost time by getting lost in each other.

Good morning texts turned into good morning kisses in his arms

Once we move in together that’s it.

Baking disasters - where the floor is covered in flour and face filled with chocolate frosting.

Dancing in the kitchen while making dinner, he come home and joins after a while of watching

Hair dying nights - trying not to get color everywhere.

Saturday morning forts

And lazy Sunday’s in bed with him pulling me back under the covers when I try to be productive “babe, you’re always working, let me just love on you today.”

Our first fight we never remembered what it was about but all we knew is that we couldn't stay mad at each other.

His explosive best friend - he grew on me and his cooking skills 👌🏻 I think I’ll keep him around

He talks about marriage and kids and I know it should scare me but with him it feels natural.

When I do get pregnant, he’s so doting. Running around getting everything I could crave.

He reads every what to expect book

Takes me to all the classes

Wakes me up a week before I’m due to make different route from work and home so when I go into labor he’ll know where I am if he’s at work and I’m home.

Thing is our little girl decided the day we do that is the day she comes.

We are in the middle of a busy sidewalk and he’s freaked … I got us over to the hospital and checked in.

He’d be nervous af , holding on to me, breathing with me. Doing everything from beginning to end

And once she comes into the world, my big manly hero melts as soon as he lays eyes on her.

Running out to everyone waiting with a huge smile “IM A DAD!!!”

Our children would be running around the agency with Papa Tai.

Jumping all over Uncle Katsu when he visits.

Our kids walking around wearing his merch

NSFW

Sex with kiri is always amazing

He’s gentle and loving

He takes his time - we don’t have anywhere to be.

He’s a giver and I love receiving

He’s a nibbler…. loves to leave his mark … and bites … neck, breast, thighs …. sweet reminders.

Makes it his mission to make me cum at least twice before he gets off

I’ll always return the favor … I love his dick

His hardening quirk: oh yes ... T H I G H R I D I N G

Breeding kink “you’re going to look so beautiful, round with my baby in your belly” “I’m gonna make sure you both have the world” “would you like that, yea? To carry my baby?” “Want me to stuff you full baby girl.”

Late nights at work hit different.

When we are alone and stressed, those nights  find me bent over his desk , and those nights he leaves bruises but oh how good they feel.

2nd Ship Roronoa Zora x Steff

GIF by rorronoa

I first met the green haired swordsman when I was on the run from the navy. I had a bounty on my head and so did he. So I was shocked when he stepped up trying to help me (he didn’t need to I took care of it)

“You might have bigger swords handsome but uhh I know how to use my little knives.” I wink at him causing him to blush.

The man has no sense of direction! He went on his merry way but heading right to navy territory. I circle back pulling him into an alley and before he could ask what I was doing he sees navy HQs.

“If I’m right and that’s your ship docked just head west and you’ll find it no problem” That’s when he asked me for help so he wouldn’t  get lost.

And I got him to the ship and was ready to head back into town when his Captain saw me and invited me for dinner as a thank you for being back his first mate. I had to admit to myself

I may have been a lone wolf most of my life but watching the crew together and laughing with them had me wanting something more.

Luffy ends up inviting me to sail with them and I agreed way too quickly for my liking.

Learning everything I can about everyone. And taking time to get to know what they do an learning how to do it. I love to learn … I’m a sponge.

I know Luffy can handle himself but he became like a little brother to me. His smile is infectious.

They are my family. They picked me and love me no matter my past.

I do my share and become the ship mom of all things, I kept up with the everyday things, looking after everyone, becoming 2nd commander under Zoro.

That caused us to work together very closely, starting to get to know him was nice.

He learned about my past. And vowed to hurt the man that hurt me and anyone else who tries

Once we made it official much to Sanji’s dismay. We were always together.

Couple workouts! Sitting on his back during push ups.

Putting me on his shoulders while he squats He doesn’t let me get away without training either.

But we all know how that ends. My legs wrapped around his waist while he held me up with his body as I did sit ups, catching his lips with mine until my arms came up to hug his neck and he slammed me into the nearest wall.

I do baking with Sanji, it’s my favorite pastime.

He doesn’t like me being too close to the cook but he knows I’m his and his alone.  

Calling him in to help and he’s reluctant at first but he loves doing it after awhile.

Sitting in the crow’s nest to look up at the stars

Cuddled up with blankets while I read, sometimes to him, he loves listening to my voice and the voice changes I do. He says I’m pretty silly for a bad ass but here we are.

He teaches me how to use his swords. I show him katas I remember from when I trained at a dojo. It’s relaxing and intimate , I never stay focused

Stolen kisses while doing chores  

Camping out when we dock on a beach or outskirts of islands. It was much needed alone time with a ship full of people.

Fighting, drinking and fucking on every island/town we get to just cause we can.

NSFW

HIS STAMINA

HIS LIBIDO

Drives him wild when I bite my lip

I mark him all over

body worship

I can tease him all day and work him up but once I have him where I want him he turns the tables and I’m begging him to let me cum.

“What’s the matter, love? Oh no, I’m gonna take my time right now” “weren’t you just talking about how you can make me cum fast with your mouth.” “Show me”

Quickies in storage closets

When we camp out making love by the fire under the stars , all night. (I need to write this)

I can’t keep my hands off of his body. I know every scar in his body and knows every mark in mine.

There’s not a lot to do on a ship once the wind stops so lots of lazy days in bed, hands mapping each to memory and exploring what we like. Those are days when our mouths do the talking, and what that mouth do, oh know what it does with how he trains to keep that sword there.

He drags out my orgasms on lazy days.

He likes when I take the lead.

He’s rough especially after a good fight and we're driven on adrenaline, sweaty and bloody

Just fucking everywhere On the deck … in the crow’s nest … in the ocean … so much sex

[realfuurikuuri]

MissingArm!AU Chapter 5: The Torment of A Father

This one took a long time to get out. It was actually done and supposed to be uploaded on thanksgiving, but I got too busy to get that done, and the next day was another hassle, so here we are. I don't really have much to say for this chapter, aside from the fact that it's the first in a set of 3 that I've been wanting to finish since I started writing this. As the usual check out @spookylovesboba on a social media site of your choice, and uh... I have a good music recommendation for this chapter. I couldn't find a song that plays into its themes so... pick one for yourself, I guess. Leave it as a comment and I'll give it a listen.

Direct link to chapter 5 on AO3: XXX

Chapter below the cut

Mao Mao walked through town using a sheathed Geraldine as a cane. Because his feet still hurt. It was a warm day with large clouds. It hadn’t gotten windy yet, so the rain was still a bit off.

Badgerclops and Adorabat had only left yesterday, and he knew he should get some rest, but Mao Mao had stuff to do. Like, meet up with Ol’ Blue for his appointment. Who would’ve thought the Valley would have a therapist? He expected the closest one to be in the nearest kingdom. He was lucky that the valley had one, yet he didn’t feel very lucky. He knew he’d needed a therapist. Basic introspection was enough to tell him that. He didn’t want to go. He never wanted to go. He still didn’t want to go. However, he was a grown-ass man. He could take care of himself.

He stood in front of the door to the office. It was the same as the one he wrote down, yet he still checked it over and over. He was just postponing the inevitable. He was a grown adult! He could do this!

Not without a drink first.

Mao Mao hobbled his way into a 24-hour convenience store. He worked his way to the back where the booze was. They didn't have the kind he liked. Mao Mao faintly heard the doors chime as someone else walked in; he considered seeing who it was before deciding he should hurry and pick a drink. He was juggling on getting a can or bottle when he heard a commotion a familiar voice.

“Just give me the money,” it said.

Mao Mao sighed, deciding on the can, walking up to the front of the store. There he was, pressing his golden dagger to a sweetipies throat, was his son.

“What in the hell are you doing?” he asked.

Jǐngtì rolled his eyes. “What does it look like I’m doing? This is a stickup. A sheriff should know that.”

“If you needed money, you should’ve just asked.  I’m your dad I would have given you some.”

“Don’t worry, I already know your credit and debit information. Thought the bank would have called you by now?”

“What?”

“Don’t worry about it,” he said,” also, you probably want to check your credit score.”

Mao Mao pinched the bridge of his nose. “Listen, just… get off of the counter.”

Jǐngtì eyed his father before driving his fist into the sweetipies nose and getting off the counter. Not the best outcome, but Jǐngtì listened, which was more than he expected.

They left the store after giving the sweetipie some ice. Mao Mao walked closely behind his son. He had no other place to go, rather; he had no other place he wanted to go. Jǐngtì noticed his father and let out an annoyed grunt, picking up his pace. At first, it was a brisk walk, then a run, then a race. Mao Mao continued to follow them, even though his feet were leaving bloody paw prints.

Jǐngtì jumped off a bench, springing off a lamppost to the rooftops. Mao Mao repeated the movements, following closely after his son. Jǐngtì suddenly swung around. Mao Mao stumbled to a stop. Jǐngtì’s claws grazing his cheek instead of his eye. It was easy to forget that he was part cat. He had tufted fur around his shoulders, and a bushy tail, but kept a sense of balance and hidden claws. He preferred using the tanuki magic he inherited from his mother (it wasn’t that hard to realize why) but he still knew how to make best use of his feline traits.

Jǐngtì quickly broke from the rooftops, springing off the rooftops with a backflip, and reaching out with both arms to pull himself into a window in one smooth motion. A move that a one-armed man shouldn’t be able to do. Mao Mao jumped off the edge, sticking Geraldine through the window to use as a lever to pull himself inside.

Jǐngtì was waiting for him with one foot out the window and a purple ox in his arms. He looked Mao Mao square in the eye before throwing the ox in one direction and leaving in the other.

That would have worked on anyone else.

Mao Mao went after the ox first. He caught it the air, landing on a shop awning, setting the ox neatly on its feet before the awning snapped back like a trampoline, sending Mao Mao flying through the air, back to the rooftops.

Jǐngtì sneered at the act, gritting his teeth, and stamped his foot against the shingles. “God, just stop following me! What the fuck do you want!”

“I just want to talk,” he said.”

“About what?”

Good question.

“What are you carrying,” Mao Mao blurted out.

Jǐngtì looked at the plastic bags he was carrying with some disbelief. “Shouldn't you know what groceries are?”

“I know what groceries are,” he said,” I mean why do you have them?”

“Shouldn’t you also know that people need to eat?”

“No. I mean like… what are you doing here?”

“Getting groceries.”

Could the kid try not to get on his nerves? “What I mean to ask what are you still doing in the valley?”

“You and I still have some unfinished business, of course. Why wouldn't I still be here?”

“I just thought Tanya would have picked you up before she left.”

“Mom was here?”

Mao Mao felt like he just picked the wrong answer in one of Badgerclops’ dating sims.

Jǐngtì stopped. Mao Mao expected him to cry. He could already see tears, yet Jǐngtì just blinked them away with a sigh. Jǐngtì said nothing else. He slowly turned around and began to walk away.

“Wait!”

Mao Mao grabbed Jǐngtì by the wrist.

“What do you want?”

Mao Mao paused while he thought of a reason. “You want to get something to eat?”

* * *

Jǐngtì sat on the bench outside Muffin’s Bakery, twiddling his thumbs while he waited for his father. If it was up to Jǐngtì he would have picked somewhere else. Dessert wasn’t his favorite thing, but he didn’t really care. He was still numb. He expected mom to show up eventually, sooner rather than later, but he at least expected to meet her. He was just another afterthought. Jǐngtì shook his head and wiped tears from his eyes. Don’t let it show. Can’t let it show.

Don’t be weak. Can’t be weak.

He pulled up the bandana and rubbed the tears out of his eyes. He searched around for something to focus on before he broke down completely. He settled on looking over his shoulder to the inside of the bakery. His father leaned against the counter, waiting for the order. His eyebrows knitted together. The fox inside was giving Mao Mao a wide berth, shuffling in his seat, and sweating nervously. Muffin didn’t seem to notice the hard air. Were all sweetipies oblivious? Jǐngtì preferred not to dwell on sweetipies; all the sweetipies creeped him the fuck out. They were just so weird.

Jǐngtì watched Mao Mao get the order and sit down next to him. Mao Mao got beignets while Jǐngtì got the cobbler he didn’t want. He only got cobbler because he knew it annoyed his dad for some reason. He didn’t feel like annoying his dad, so why the hell did he even get it? Jǐngtì almost got up and threw it away until he remembered the pit in his stomach. Something disgustingly sweet was better than nothing.

They sat in silence for a moment before Jǐngtì spoke up.

“Why are you using your sword like that,” Jǐngtì asked.

“Using it as a cane? It’s because I hurt my feet the other day.”

“Fighting that monster?”

“Yeah.”

The pointless and pathetic small talk quickly gave way to silence again. They sat like that for another moment when Mao Mao managed to say something.

“How are you feeling,” Mao Mao asked.

“Why do you care?”

“I’m your dad. Caring is what I’m supposed to do.”

“I know,” he said,” I’m just wondering why you’re suddenly starting to do that now.”

“I’ve always cared-”

“Did you?” Jǐngtì interrupted. “Did you really? I go to prison and you do... whatever this is. Became babysitter to a bunch of creepy fucking toddlers? I know for a fact that you could have done something to get me out of prison.”

“It’s not that easy-”

“It really is. You could have paid bail yourself.. I know for a fact this goddamn ‘mao clan’ or whatever has enough money to literally pay a king’s ransom with excess. Instead, you let Mom spend 4 years collecting the money herself.”

Mao Mao stumbled over his words. “I… the situation was complicated. The monarchy-”

“I don’t want to talk about it,” he calmly said.

“What?”

“I don’t want to talk about it.”

Jǐngtì shuffled to the other side of the bench, refusing to even look his father in the eye.

“Why’d you get the groceries?”

“Cause I was hungry and would rather not starve to death because none of them want to do chores?”

“Who’s ‘them’?”

“My… roommates, I guess.”

“What roommates? Who are you staying with? Where are you staying?”

“Sky Pirates.”

Out of the corner of his eye, he watched Mao Mao jump to his feet and begin pacing back and forth.

“Why would you?” He took a deep breath, taking the time to gather his thoughts. “You’re staying with the sky pirates?”

“Yes.”

“Why? I have a room at HQ you could have stayed in.”

“I didn’t want to. Matter of fact, I still don’t want to.”

“You shouldn’t be staying with the sky pirates-”

“I don't see why it's such a fucking problem with you! You went years without a call or even a letter! I can’t understand why you suddenly want anything to do with me.”

“Why wouldn’t I want anything to do with you? I’m your father.”

“You sure as hell don’t act like it.”

* * *

Mao Mao coiled his tail around his finger. It was a replacement habit. When he had both arms he tended twiddle his thumbs. The new habit gave him something to do while he thought of something to say.

What could he say?

“Look, son-”

“Don’t call me that,” he snapped.

Mao Mao ignored it.

“Son, I know that… things were difficult. It was prison. It has to be. It must have been an incredibly difficult time for you.” He put his arm over Jǐngtì’s shoulder. “You had to learn to do things on your own, learn to make judgments for yourself, with no guidance or advice.”

“It must have been a painful thing to go through. It had to be. You managed to survive it and now you’ve come out stronger. You’ve gotten rid of a bit of that weakness. Leaving you in jail wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. It was a lesson. It taught you about consequences and weakness and-” I know it sounds harsh, but-”

Jǐngtì quickly stood up before he could finish. He took a deep breath and stared at the ground while he thought. “I know it sounds harsh, but-”

Mao Mao never got to try to justify himself.

Jǐngtì grabbed Mao Mao by the face and pushed him back with all his might. Mao Mao went over the bench crashing through the Bakery’s storefront. Mao Mao righted himself, stumbling into a landing, using only a cat's instinct. The danger of surprise attacks lay in the ‘surprise’. If it didn’t win the fight outright, the sudden switch created an opening. Mao Mao knew this; Jǐngtì did as well. His son seized the opportunity. He lunged forward. A punch that should have landed. Mao Mao caught it with his right hand; a feat only possible because the move and strategy was something he taught his son. A surprise throw to create a gap for a well-timed finish.

“A single wrong move can turn the tides,” he said, pulling Jǐngtì in for a leg sweep counter.

Mao Mao felt something strike the side of his head. An elbow split his skin. “A single wrong move can turn the tides,” Jǐngtì smugly repeated.

To know that he’d pull him in for a leg-sweep creating just enough space for an elbow that a one-armed man couldn’t stop. Did he read that far ahead? Mao Mao couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride as everything tilted.

He grabbed Jǐngtì’s arm. They began to fall. Jǐngtì prepared to grapple on the ground, however, Mao Mao pushed off the ground, reeling back and then pushing Jǐngtì away with all his weight.

Mao Mao was still reeling from the attacks, his sense of balance too busy somersaulting to keep him from falling on broken glass. A stray shard went into his side, slipping past the ribs into the meat.

The pain was blinding. All Mao Mao could do was lie there in pain, waiting for Jǐngtì’s finisher. Would it be a kick to the skull? A stomp to the face? Mao Mao put his money on the forme; It seemed more Jǐngtì’s style. He waited and waited, but it never came.

Mao Mao pried himself off the ground.  He considered pulling out the shard but decided it was the only thing keeping him from bleeding out, so it was best to leave it. He looked for Jǐngtì, finding him back outside, sitting on the bench. Mao Mao grabbed used Geraldine as a cane to stumble toward his son, heaving for breath, barely able to even stand.

“How do you do it,” Jǐngtì asked. “How do you manage to come so close to doing something right? How do you manage to mess it up so swiftly, so consistently, so easily that it makes blinking look like a deadlift?”

Mao Mao had nothing to say.

“I’ll cover the damages. It was my fault. I got mad. I just thought… you might have changed, or at least learned your lesson.”

Jǐngtì stood up, grabbed his groceries, and walked away.

Mao Mao wanted to feel sad. He wanted to feel regret. He wanted there to be tears in his eyes, he wanted to say something, but he had nothing. No regret. No remorse. No rage. All his emotions and energy had been spent up and burnt out. He just felt tired. So unbelievably tired.

With nothing left to do, with nothing he wanted to do, he headed back home.

* * *

Somewhere along the long walk home, across the Valley’s grassy foothills, the pain had gone away. Actually, it would be better to say he had just gotten used to it. Maybe he’d just sleep with the shard in his side. He could probably take care of it tomorrow. Mao Mao felt a yawn come up, but he didn’t even have the energy to get it out. He put his head down and kept walking even though he was half-asleep. Habit and muscle memory would be enough to carry him the rest of the way. Maybe he’d get lucky and fall asleep with his eyes closed.

Mao Mao crossed the crest of the final foothill, absently hearing something. “Now where is he? I called and called, but he didn’t answer the phone. Does he actually live here? Thing looks like a dollhouse.”

Mao Mao could have sworn he recognized the voice. Who did it belong too? It didn’t belong to anyone in the Valley. Who was it? Damn! The name was on the tip of his tongue.

Bam!  

Mao Mao stumbled back clutching his bloody nose. Did he just walk into his own front door? That was what he gets for not paying attention.

“Mew Mew! There you are, my boy! What are you doin’ walking with your eyes closed? Don’t tell me you lost your sight. Already lost your arm can’t have you losin’ much more than that can we?” he said with a hearty gut-filled laugh Mao Mao hadn’t heard in nearly a decade.

The realization knocked the wind out of Mao Mao.

“Papa?”