#for no reason at all. like just casually over breakfast. and he loses his mind

[lizzieolseniskinda]

TOM RIDDLE - soulmates don’t exist PT. 3

SDE MASTERLIST - x FEM!reader (POC!friendly)

SUMMARY: everything changes for you when snape gives you a certain memory. will you be able to do the task that dumbledore has given you?

WORD COUNT: 4677

GENRE: angst-ish (but not really)

CONTENT WARNING: soulmate (soulbound) & time travel au, english is not my first language, i took names of professor in harry's time (it's easier that way)

You were walking through the Hogwarts courtyard, bundled up in your robes as the wind carried a hint of the colder months that were coming. The sun filtered through the canopy of orange and red; it was a cold day without the sun. As you approached the Gryffindor common room after breakfast, you spotted Lucas—tall, with his messy black curls and easygoing grin—leaning casually against the wall.

“There you are!” he called out, pushing off the wall and strolling over to you. “I’ve been looking for you. Fancy coming with me to Hogsmeade? I’ve got some things to pick up, and I thought you could use a break from all the studying.”

You raised an eyebrow, interested. “And by ‘things,’ you mean what exactly?”

“Important stuff!” Lucas replied with mock seriousness. “Like sweets from Honeydukes and a new quill, since I keep losing mine. And, of course, we have to stop at Zonko’s - can’t leave without some supplies for our next prank on Maeve.”

You let out a laugh, feeling the tension of the past few years slip away. You figured you could use a shopping day - it was a Saturday after all; you could just study after. “Sounds like a plan, though I’m not sure if Maeve would be happy with another one of your ‘masterpieces’.”

“She’ll survive. Besides, I’ve got a new idea that’ll totally blow her mind; just wait and see,” Lucas nudged you playfully.

As you made your way down the long, winding path to Hogsmeade, a sleek black cat caught your eye. It seemed to be lingering just out of reach; you’d seen the cat a few times today, always trailing a few paces behind, watching you with its bright, curious green eyes. It had followed you from the common room to the courtyard, through the grounds, and now it was walking behind you and Lucas as though it belonged with the two of you.

“Look at that,” you murmured, glancing over your shoulder at the cat. “It’s been following me this entire day.”

Lucas turned around, narrowing his eyes slightly at the feline. “Huh, that’s a little weird, don’t you think? Cats don’t usually follow people around for no reason.”

You crouched down and extended a hand toward the cat. To your surprise, it didn’t hesitate. The cat padded forward and nuzzled your palm; its fluffy and soft fur was warm, despite the chill in the air. You smiled, scratching it behind the ears.

“I think it likes me,” you said, looking up at Lucas. “Maybe it's a stray. What do you think?”

Lucas crossed his arms and looked at the cat with a suspicious expression. “It's a little too good to be true, don’t you think? A mysterious black cat following you around Hogwarts. You know there are loads of horror stories about witches using cats as spies, right?”

“You're paranoid,” you rolled your eyes at him, but smiled.

“I’m cautious,” Lucas corrected, though there was a small teasing glint in his eyes. “But if you’re set on keeping it, we should make sure it’s not... I don’t know, an Animagus or something. Better safe than sorry, right?”

“You think someone’s been using this little thing to spy on me?”

Lucas shrugged, but he was already pulling out his wand. “Could be, perhaps. There’s a simple charm to check for such things; it won’t hurt the cat - you have my promise.”

You stood up and took a step back, “Okay, but I’m telling you, it’s just a normal cat.”

Lucas raised his wand, pointing it at the cat as he muttered the incantation under his breath. A faint blue light shimmered from the tip of his wand. It surrounded the cat for a moment before fading away.

You both stared at the cat in silence, holding your breath, waiting for whatever was about to happen. But the cat just blinked up at you, then licked its paw nonchalantly.

Lucas let out a breath, “Phew... what do you know? It’s just a regular old cat.”

“Told you,” you smirked, “looks like you’re now stuck with me and my new pet.”

The cat - as if it sensed your affectionate words - let out a soft purr and wound itself around your legs once more. You knelt down and scratched behind its ears again. A bond was already beginning to form. The only problem was the lice and many more things that were scattered across its fur.

"Alright, alright," Lucas said, laughing. "I suppose it shouldn’t be a problem.”

With the cat in tow, you and Lucas continued down the path to Hogsmeade. The bustling village was already alive with students and locals; shops were gleaming with fresh stock and festive decorations for upcoming festivities. As you entered Honeydukes, the warmth of the shop’s interior enveloped you, along with the sweet scent of sugar and chocolate.

“So, what’s your go-to sweet?” Lucas asked as he grabbed a basket, eyeing the chocolate frogs with heart eyes.

“Maybe the peppermint toads?” you said with a grin, grabbing a small bag from the shelf. “They’re the perfect balance of sweet and refreshing.”

Lucas pulled a face, “You’re a maniac. It’s all about the fizzing whizzbees.”

Both of you wandered through the aisles, piling your basket high with various candies - sugar quills, licorice wands, jelly slugs. At one point, Lucas tried to sneak a handful of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans into your bag, but you caught him just in time.

“You’re not tricking me into eating vomit-flavored beans again!” you narrowed your eyes at him.

Lucas laughed, holding up his hands in mock surrender. “Fine, fine. I'll save it for someone else.”

After stocking enough sweets to last almost a month, you and Lucas headed to Zonko’s. The shop was just as chaotic as expected, filled with exploding fireworks, laughing gas, and all manner of joke items. Lucas was in his element, darting from one display to the next with an excitement you hadn't seen since your first year at Hogwarts when you'd go shopping with the Weasleys.

It made you wonder if there was a Weasley in this timeline, or a Potter; surely there must—

“I’ve got it,” Lucas broke your trance, holding up a box of nose-biting teacups. “We’ll switch Maeve's regular tea with one of these. Can you imagine the look on her face?”

You shook your head, grinning, “You’re terrible.”

“Hey! You’re the one who agreed to come with me,” he replied, winking. “Makes you an accomplice.”

After spending almost an hour in Zonko’s, you finally dragged Lucas away before he bought the entire store. The two of you made your way back to Hogwarts, the pockets of your robes stuffed with sweets, joke items, and - in your case - also a black cat nestled happily in your arms.

“Already thought of a name?” Lucas asked as you strolled along the path.

You looked down at the cat, who had fallen asleep in your arms, still purring softly. “I’m not so sure yet; maybe something like ‘Shadow’?”

“Shadow,” Lucas mused, “hm, not bad; fits the whole ‘following you everywhere’ thing it’s got going on.”

You laughed, feeling the warmth of the cat’s fur against you. Despite the whirlwind of chaos that had brought you here, there was something so comforting about the small creature that had decided to be your companion.

And as you and Lucas made your way back to the castle, joking and teasing each other, you felt like things were normal, like you were just a regular student at Hogwarts, living in a time untouched by war and dark magic.

You went to sleep that day feeling better already, with the small feline curled up at the end of your bed, purring, its little collar having a little bell that you bought in a shop.

The following morning, you made your way down the main hall, the familiar hum of chatter and clicking of cutlery filling the air. It was officially your second week at Hogwarts, and though you were still getting used to the time period, you started to have a routine.

You reached the Gryffindor table and spotted your friends, already gathering around a platter of toast and eggs; some of them had pancakes. They waved you over and made space as you slipped onto the bench beside them.

“Morning, y/n!” Maeve greeted brightly, pushing a pitcher of pumpkin juice toward you. Her curly hair was a little wild this morning, as if she didn’t care. “Sleep well?”

You poured yourself a glass. “Pretty well, all things considered. I think I’m getting used to these weird ancient beds.”

Alicia snorted, her red hair falling into her eyes as she reached for a stack of pancakes. “Weird ancient beds? Try getting used to the weird ancient ghosts! I had Nearly Headless Nick hovering over my bed last night, telling some kind of story about jousting. I barely slept.”

“Better Nick than Peeves, though. That poltergeist kept chucking ink at me during Charms yesterday,” Maeve giggled, spreading jam on a piece of toast.

You laughed, feeling a warmth in your chest that you weren’t expecting. These girls had made everything feel… lighter. The constant worry in the back of your mind lessened. Here, in the morning sunlight with breakfast laid out before you, you almost forgot the real reason why you were here.

“Mm, speaking of Charms,” Maeve said, glancing at her timetable. “We’ve got it again this morning. Think Professor Flitwick will finally let us practice summoning spells?”

“I certainly hope so,” Lilith spoke as quietly as ever, but her eyes were sparkling with excitement. “Right? I’ve been dying to try action on something bigger. Imagine being able to summon an entire plate of pastries!” Lucas exclaimed.

“As if we need more reasons for you to get distracted during class, Luca,” Alicia rolled her eyes.

They continued to chatter about the day ahead while you found your gaze wandering around. The students were busy with their own conversations; some were studying, others were yawning over cups of tea, while some were also scribbling down last-minute notes for their morning classes. Everything felt so normal.

When your eyes landed on the Slytherin table, the illusion of normalcy shattered. You’d almost forgotten about him.

Tom Riddle. He was sitting at the center, surrounded by his usual group of admirers. He was composed, elegant even, as he buttered a piece of toast, speaking quietly to a blonde male next to him.

You looked away quickly before his group—or him—could notice you staring. “You’re awfully quiet this morning,” Maeve nudged you with her elbow.

“Everything alright?”

You gave a smile, hoping it didn’t look too strained. “Yeah, just thinking about today.”

“Don’t worry about it too much; it’s only the second week,” Lucas smiled. “Besides, you’re part of the group now. We’re in this together.”

“No backing out,” Lilith added, and for a second, you thought you’d melted.

You smiled, relaxing. You felt it reach your eyes; a sense of belonging wandered around in the back of your mind.

Breakfast continued, and so did the conversation to a more light-hearted topic: Alicia’s and Lilith’s excitement about the next Hogsmeade trip, Lucas’s plans for another elaborate prank on their dorm mate, and Maeve’s ongoing battle with Peeves. You listened, laughed, and chimed in the conversation whenever you could.

Maeve slung her bag over her shoulder and stood up. “Come on, y/n. Let’s see if we can make it to Flitwick’s class before Luca drags us to the kitchens for more pastries.”

“I resent that,” Lucas called over his shoulder, “but I do want more pastries.”

You smiled and grabbed your bag as you followed them out of the Great Hall, trying to savour the last few minutes of peace before the day truly began.

⋆｡⋆˙⟡charms class:

When you arrived at the Charms class, it was buzzing with quiet energy as tired students filed in, quills and textbooks clutched in their hands. You took a seat next to Maeve on your left side. Behind another desk with space in between you two sat another girl—Slytherin.

“Good morning, everyone! Today, we will be practicing summoning charms—Accio!” Professor Flitwick said loudly, standing on a stack of books at the front of the class as he clapped his hands to get the attention of all the students.

An exciting murmur passed through the room. You realized how, in their fifth year, they learn about summoning spells in this timeline, while in Harry’s timeline you learned more defensive spells or memory spells. The difference was huge.

Summoning charms were pretty basic, but growing up in times like you did, you almost had no time getting used to a simple spell like Accio while you could easily Obliviate someone or use the Patronus charm.

“Partner up!” Flitwick instructed. You turned to look at Maeve, who was already grinning at you.

“I’ve been practicing this all week,” Maeve said, wiggling her eyebrows. “Let’s see if I can summon a bigger thing than a quill this time.”

“Alright, but if you summon a desk by accident, you’re responsible,” you teased her, setting your wand on your desk.

Maeve pointed her wand at one of the cushions Flitwick had left for practice. “Accio cushion!” she shouted, her wand slicing through the air.

The cushion zoomed toward her, though it wobbled slightly before landing in her arms. “Not bad, right?”

You clapped lightly. “That was impressive!”

Maeve jokingly gave a little bow to you. “Your turn!”

You focused on a cushion that was lying a few feet away, envisioning it flying smoothly into your hands. After a flick of your wand, you called out,

“Accio cushion!”

The cushion shot toward you with more speed than you expected, hitting you on your chest slightly and knocking you back slightly. You laughed, catching it just in time. Maeve burst into giggles beside you.

“Well, at least it's working,” you said with a grin. Putting the cushion down, you glanced around the room and caught sight of Tom. He was practicing at the far end of the classroom. He performed the spell flawlessly, his cushion gliding into his hands with barely a flick of his wrist. His focus was intense, almost unnerving.

You quickly turned towards Maeve again, not wanting to dwell on him.

⋆｡⋆˙⟡potions class:

The potion classroom in the dungeons was dark and cool; the only source of light was flickering. A mushy and earthy scent of ingredients filled the air as you sat down next to Alicia at one of the tables near the back.

“Right,” Alicia said, pulling out her ingredients. “I’ve got a good feeling about today’s potion. We’re supposed to make something simple, so there’s no way I can accidentally melt my cauldron like last week.”

You snickered. “Simple or not, I still think you have a way to make the easiest potions chaotic.”

Before Alicia could respond, Professor Slughorn’s jovial voice boomed across the room. “Today, my dear students, we will be brewing a calming draught. Quite useful for, uh, stressful situations.” He winked at the class. “-“I’m sure none of you feel stressed, though.”

You could feel the irony of the assignment, given how much stress you were actually under without anyone really knowing. You could probably use a calming draught or two just to get through the day.

Slughorn’s face was surrounded with enthusiasm as he demonstrated the first few steps, his eyes darting over the class with interest. You gathered the ingredients you needed and carefully measured out the valerian root, hellebore syrup, and the fluxweed oil.

“So, you think Slughorn’s going to invite you to one of his little parties?” Alicia asked as she ground some peppermint into powder.

You shrugged, keeping your focus on your cauldron as you stirred it clockwise. “Not very likely. I don’t really know what those parties are even about,” you lied. You went to one meeting with Hermione and decided to never go again. Simply a waste of time.

Alicia raised an eyebrow. “Well, Slughorn kinda ‘collects’ talented students. You’re smart, plus you’re new and kind. So, I’d say you're prime Slug Club material.”

You smiled at her. “We’ll see,” you said quietly. “Plus, I think Riddle is in Slug Club,” Alicia whispered.

You almost spilled the peppermint that you were trying to add into your potion. “Sorry, what?” you gaped at her. She scoffed at you and smiled. “Don’t act dumb; I always see you looking at him.”

Your potion turned to a soft blue—that was a good sign. “What??? No, I don’t…” you mumbled and glanced over at Alicia’s cauldron, which was bubbling a little too vigorously.

“Uh, Alicia... are you sure you didn’t add too much oil?” you asked her, eyeing the bubbles. “You’re not getting out of this conversation, Y/N,”Alicia said while she kept adding oil.

“No, no, I’m serious; look at those bubbles.”

“Oh, oops,” Alicia gasped and quickly turned down the heat under her cauldron. “Well, at least it’s not melting this time.”

You laughed softly, helping her adjust the potion before it boiled over. Potions was always a mix of stress and humor with Alicia. Seems like you're not as slick as you thought you were.

⋆｡⋆˙⟡transfiguration class:

Dumbledore’s class, there was a different energy in the air. The room was spacious and bright; high arched windows were letting beams of sunlight in that illuminated against the desks. Dumbledore was standing at the front. “Today,” Dumbledore began, “we will attempt one of the more advanced transfigurations: turning inanimate objects into animals. Quite the leap from last week’s matchsticks to needles, wouldn’t you say?”

Maeve leaned over to you, whispering, “What if we give a four-legged animal six legs by mistake?”

You snickered quietly.

Dumbledore waved his wand, and a stack of stones appeared on each of the students’ desks. “Your task today is to transform this stone into small creatures of your choosing: a mouse, perhaps, or a bird. Be gentle and focus.”

You pointed your wand at the stone, visualising a small bird. With clear focus, you flicked your wand, saying the incantation softly.

To your surprise, the stone started shifting, wings sprouting from its sides as it transformed into a tiny sparrow. It fluttered its wings in confusion before hopping onto your desk.

“Well, aren’t you just the star pupil,” Maeve teased with a grin. She was still poking at her half-transformed stone, which looked more like a stone with some fur on it.

From the front of the class, Dumbledore’s eyes met yours briefly, and he gave a small approving nod. You continued helping Maeve when you caught a glimpse of Tom Riddle a few rows ahead. His magic was perfect—obviously. The stone in front of him had turned into a sleek, black raven that perched on his desk with eerie calm.

You sighed, forcing yourself to focus more on Maeve and her furry rock. There would be plenty of time to think about Tom later, but the time was ticking, and you knew it

Shadow, the cat that you’d taken in, padded silently beside you as you made your way to the library. You smiled down at him; Shadow had proven to be nothing more than a sweet, lovely companion. The cat had followed you everywhere except for classes.

“You like books, don’t you?” you murmured to the cat as you entered the library, earning a few curious glances from other students. Shadow flicked his tail and trotted ahead of you, his sleek form disappearing between two towering bookshelves.

The library was quiet and warm, even after dinner. The air was thick with the scent of old parchment and dust. You loved it in the library; it felt like a sanctuary, a place where time stood still.

Wandering through the shelves, you scanned the spines of the books you passed. Every so often, you’d glance behind you to make sure Shadow was still with you. Reaching a shelf tucked in a quiet corner of the library, you found a book you'd been looking for - The Founder’s Legacy: A History of Hogwarts. It was a book you needed for your Muggle Studies.

You pulled it down and tucked it under your arm, turning to leave the aisle; but when you did, you noticed Shadow was gone. “Shadow?” you called softly, careful not to disturb the other students. The silence of the library seemed to grow louder, your eyes searching for the black fur you had grown accustomed to.

Frowning, you stepped out of the aisle, looking around for any sign of the cat. Only a few students were scattered around the tables, their heads buried in their studies. Then, out of the corner of your eye, you spotted him.

At one of the far tables, seated in his usual spot near the back of the library, was Tom Riddle.

With Shadow.

Your breath caught in your throat. The sleek black cat had made himself comfortable on the edge of Tom’s open book, his paws kneading the pages as he purred contentedly. Tom didn’t seem bothered by the interruption. In fact, he was watching the cat with an odd expression - almost as if he was amused, though his features remained calm and composed as always.

For a second, you just stood there, contemplating all your life’s choices. Seeing Shadow so comfortable made your heart race. Tom Riddle, the person you were meant to change, was casually petting the cat you had taken in, and it made your situation feel even more surreal.

But only you couldn't keep standing there forever, staring at Tom Riddle.

So, you summoned up your courage and slowly walked over to the table, forcing yourself to remain calm even though you could feel your chest preparing for a panic attack.

“Looking for this?” His voice was soft but cold as he gestured to the cat with a slight raise of his hand. Shadow meowed happily and stretched out his paws, pushing against Tom's book as if he had claimed it for himself.

Hearing Tom’s voice changed something in you; a warm feeling spread through you.

“Yes,” you said, your voice steady, trying to ignore all the feelings you were feeling at once. “I didn’t realise he’d wandered off.”

Tom’s eyes lingered on you for a moment, studying you with the same unsettling intensity you’d noticed in class. Then he looked back at the cat, one hand absently touching behind Shadow’s ear. The cat purred louder, pressing into the touch as though he had always belonged there.

“He seems to like me,” Tom observed. You had to hold back a scoff, so you forced a smile. “He’s a friendly one.”

“I can see.”

You weren’t sure how to respond to that. You cleared your throat and stepped forward, reaching for Shadow. “Well, I should get him out of your way; he’s probably disturbing your reading. Or studying, or whatever…”

Tom didn’t move at first, and for a brief second, you thought he might not let you take back your cat. But then he pulled his hand back. Shadow, oblivious to the tension, stretched lazily before hopping off the table and rubbing against your leg.

You cradled Shadow in your arms as you tried to steady your nerves.

You felt Tom’s gaze linger on you for a moment longer before he turned his attention back to his book, his expression unreadable. “Be careful,” he said, his voice low. “Not everything that follows you is harmless.”

You blinked, taken aback by the sudden shift in his tone. Was that a warning? Or something more? Before you could reply, Tom had already turned the page of his book, his focus shifting away from you as though the conversation had never happened

A chill ran down your spine as you hugged Shadow closer. Your heart was pounding in your chest, and you turned around.

Tom’s cryptic words echoed in your thoughts. You were halfway to the library’s entrance when you spotted Lucas striding toward you, hands tucked in his pockets, that ever-present grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. He seemed completely at ease, as though the world was just a big joke waiting to be told.

“There you are!” he called out in a low voice, somewhat mindful of the library’s strict silence policy. He walked right up to you, his sharp blue eyes scanning your face before flicking over to the spot where Tom was sitting. “I saw you over there, chatting with Riddle.”

“Yeah... Shadow wandered over to him,” you smiled slightly, still not fully calmed down, but Lucas’s presence helped a bit.

Lucas smiled. “Look, I’m just gonna say it: I’ve seen you stare at him at times, and you look like you’ve seen a ghost. Whatever he’s said to you—”

“He said something about not everything that follows you is harmless,” you interrupted him, needing to get it off your chest.

“Okay, stop. That’s freakishly creepy,” Lucas gaped, stealing a glance at Tom. “Just... try to ignore him. Riddle’s either got everyone thinking he’s the hottest thing to walk these halls, or they think he’s bloody weird.”

Your curiosity piqued. “And what do you think?”

Lucas paused, his eyes narrowing slightly as he considered the question. His grin returned. “Both.”

You chuckled at his bluntness. “Both?”

You walked out of the library, your book long forgotten on the table you were supposed to be studying at. “Yeah, he’s good looking. I mean, objectively speaking,” Lucas said. “But there’s something about him that’s off. Like, he’s too good at... well, everything. It's unnatural; people are drawn to him, but they’re also... I don’t know, scared of him. You know? Even if they don't want to admit it.”

You nodded, thinking back to how Tom had looked at you - the way his eyes seemed to see right through you. There was definitely something unnerving about him. “He’s strange. Almost like he’s always one step ahead of everyone.”

“Exactly,” Lucas agreed. “It’s like he’s playing a game no one else knows the rules to. Trust me, best to keep your distance.”

“I wasn’t planning on making friends with him,” you said, shifting Shadow in your arms. The cat blinked lazily up at you.

“Good, I’ve got enough trouble without having to rescue you from the dark and mysterious Tom Riddle,” Lucas replied, giving you a reassuring smile.

You let out a laugh. “Thanks, Lucas. I’ll be sure to tell you first if I get in over my head.”

Lucas grinned. “I’ll be there, wand at the ready.”

The two of you started to head toward the common room together, the tension that had been knotted in your chest since your encounter with Tom slowly began to ease. Lucas had a way of making things feel lighter, like no matter how complicated the situation got, he’d find a way to make it less scary.

“Anyway,” Lucas said, slinging an arm around your shoulders as you walked, “enough about Riddle. Did you get what you came for? Or are we heading back in for round two of ‘Tom the Cat Whisperer’?”

You smirked, shaking your head. “No more rounds with him for today, thanks. I think I’ve had my fill of mysterious brooding for the time being. But I do think I might’ve left my book in there.”

Lucas laughed again, his voice carrying through the halls. “We’ll get it first thing tomorrow. And if you do like him, just don’t go falling for that whole dark-and-mysterious thing. I won’t judge you.”

You rolled your eyes, nudging him playfully. “Please. You know I prefer my friends a little less brooding and a little more… fun.”

“See? That’s the right attitude.” He gave you a wink, his smile warm and genuine. “Stick with me. I’m way more fun than some dark wizard-in-training.”

You couldn’t help but smile back. As strange and intense as things had become, Lucas was a constant source of light. Maybe, just maybe, he’d help keep you grounded as you navigated the dangerous path ahead.

a/n: posted a bit earlier, but umm, i was thinking of naming the cat crookshanks first - so she has a reminder of hermione, harry and ron. but idk :( alsooooo, i'll probably update on sunday for this serie (loads of homework)

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[satansapostle6]

The Man Who Sold The World | Luke Castellan

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Katherine. She was the one who started it all for Luke Castellan, the reason he did what he did.

Warnings: Mature themes/language. Violence. Smut. Rough sex. Switch. Face-sitting. Slapping. Praise kink. Hair-pulling.

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen: For You

Something had definitely changed since Katherine was revived by Kronos. Luke was slowly becoming sure of it. He wasn’t exactly sure of what, but he knew something was different. It wasn’t necessarily something bad, or off, but it was something. Luke noticed it as he and Katherine had laid in his bed together, in the late morning.

The campers in Cabin 11 were all accounted for, and Luke was glad to be able to have some time alone with Katherine.

“How long do we have before we have to get up?” she mumbled lazily as he pressed multiple, sweet kisses to her lips.

“All the time in the world,” he told her, as they both lay bare under the covers.

She chuckled softly, nuzzling her head into his warm chest as she allowed him to wrap his arm around her. She rested her hand on his chest as she laid on top of him, which made him feel like a king. To Katherine, and probably everyone else as well, Luke was big and strong. His suntanned body, especially when intertwined with hers, felt solid and reliable. She felt safe with him.

Katherine liked the way it felt, laying her head on his chest as they slept together. Even in her sleep, she could feel his muscular build wrapped around hers.

“I love you,” Luke murmured dreamily, making sure that only she could hear. “I will always love you.”

Although he spoke casually, something in his tone when he said it gave Katherine that feeling like they had reached the gates of Hades together.

“I will always love you,” she promised him in return.

“You’re so beautiful,” he cooed, sitting up just so that he could carefully tuck a loose strand of her hair behind her ear. “I never wanna lose you,” he said, thinking of the prophecy that had been delivered for the two of them.

“You won’t lose me,” she stated, sounding more confident than he was.

“I don’t wanna take that chance,” he told her in a whisper. “I’m gonna fight for you. With every second I have.”

“It’s okay,” Katherine reassured him, her hand caressing him from his hair to the side of his face.

Luke smiled as he softened at her touch, closing his eyes for a moment as he savored the feeling.

“I’m gonna go take a shower,” she told him, getting out of bed and throwing her orange Camp Half-Blood shirt over her body.

“Okay,” he nodded softly, disappointed to watch her go so soon.

She lazily put on a pair of shorts as she left the room. Moments later, one of the Hermes kids in the cabin, a boy who couldn’t have been older than eight or nine, knocked on the door urgently.

“Luke?!”

There was a short pause as Luke undoubtedly sighed as he got up, opening the door.

“Yeah?” he asked expectantly, seeing the small boy standing outside of the door. “Tyler, what’s up, buddy?”

“Anthony says you have to go help the Hephaestus kids with arts and crafts today. He says he can’t, cuz he’s helping with training,” the child relayed.

“Of course he can’t,” Luke muttered, “God damn it…”

“He also said if you say ‘god damn it’ you have to give me five dollars!” the child yelled annoyingly.

Luke stared at him, growing increasingly irritated. He knew that was exactly the kind of thing he would say.

“I’m not giving you five dollars!”

“But, Anthony said you’d give me five dollars!”

“Tyler! I said I’m not giving you five dollars!”

“But I want five dollars!”

“Leave me alone!”

Katherine just shook her head as she continued toward the showers with her things, amused by Luke’s exhausted behavior. She returned to the cabin after a nice, warm shower, heading off to the mess hall with Luke for breakfast.

They sat at a table with some of the camp counselors, minding their own business as they ate together. Much to Katherine’s dismay, Silena Beauregard took a seat across from them, not too far from Luke. The younger girl looked up at him like some schoolgirl, meanwhile, he didn’t even notice until she spoke up.

“Hey Luke! Finally, you’re back,” Silena chuckled, pulling his attention away from Katherine for a moment.

Luke looked over at her awkwardly, giving her the warmest smile he could muster.

“Yeah! Hey,” he said laconically.

“So, everyone says you brought back a new camper?” she asked, momentarily glancing over at Katherine.

Katherine just smiled, trying hard not to roll her eyes.

“Hi,” Katherine said, only to be ignored by Silena.

“This is my girlfriend, Katherine,” Luke said as he lightly put his arm around her.

She pointedly stepped on his foot under the table, reminding him to make himself seem more available to Silena. But Luke wasn’t having it. Just as Katherine had anticipated, Silena made a face when she heard the word ‘girlfriend’. She tried to hide it, but it was too late.

“Oh. How nice,” she smiled, trying to come up with a new angle. “You know, it’s really nice of you to take in a stray demigod. It’s really hard out there for lone demigods. I bet you were, like, homeless, or something,” the girl remarked.

Luke frowned for a moment, not impressed.

“Well, I got by,” Katherine said plainly.

“Aw, it must’ve been hard,” Silena pouted, seeming almost genuine for a moment. “You must’ve been, like, really smelly and stuff. And obviously you had to dress like a man.”

“Katherine did just fine on her own all these years,” Luke assured her, smiling at his girlfriend.

“I’m sorry, did you say your name was…‘Katherine’?” Silena asked her.

“Yeah,” Katherine nodded, unamused.

“Wow, I’ve never met someone named Katherine under the age of fifty!” she exclaimed. “Most people just go by ‘Kate’, or ‘Katie’.”

“Well, I go by Katherine,” Katherine told her, her smile thickening as it became more and more forced.

“Well, you’re really pretty…” Silena stared at her, undoubtedly trying to find something to judge.

“Thanks,” she responded in a friendly manner.

“That’s good you can afford makeup,” Silena said, just saying whatever came to mind.

“Yeah, but I’m… actually not wearing any makeup right now,” Katherine told her patiently.

Luke sat beside her, looking more and more irritated as the conversation dragged on. The others around them, even though they weren’t really part of the conversation, were still picking up on the discomfort.

“Really?” Silena asked, not seeming convinced. “You know, even though I’m a daughter of Aphrodite, I won’t judge. You can tell me.”

“She didn’t have time to put any makeup on,” Luke said more forcefully, trying to move the conversation along. “But either way, she’s absolutely beautiful.”

Silena seemed horribly jealous as Katherine just politely went back to her meal. She and Luke sat in silence as they tried their best to ignore everyone else. Katherine, who was perfectly content with minding her own business, eventually noticed as Luke kept glancing back at a table of other Ares and Aphrodite kids behind them.

“Hey. What’s the matter?” Katherine asked.

Luke stared at her incredulously, stunned by her sudden nonchalance. “You—You don’t hear them?” he questioned.

“No,” she scoffed, quietly listening in.

“They’re fucking vultures,” he muttered under his breath, appalled.

“That’s Luke’s new girlfriend, the street rat,” Katherine overheard one of the girls.

“Her? Why’s he with her?!” another one chimed in.

“Do you have eyes?” one of the boys retorted.

Katherine just rolled her eyes as she tried to

“Ugh, she’s not even pretty,” another girl stared heavily. “She’s probably wearing makeup, too.”

“Becca, you should fight her,” one of the other sons of Ares added. “I bet she can’t fight.”

“No, I bet Gina could take her.”

“Why do you care?” Katherine wondered.

“Because,” Luke scoffed, “They’re disrespecting you.”

“Aw, look at my big, strong man,” Katherine teased, playfully pinching his cheek.

“I’m serious! It’s insane,” Luke argued, “Why do they care so much about messing with a newcomer?!”

“Because, I’m your girlfriend,” she pointed out. “You’re popular here. The guys are all curious, and the girls hate that you’re with someone.”

“I’m popular?” he raised an eyebrow, disgusted by the word.

“Yeah. You are,” she nodded. “And that’s something that’s gonna be an advantage to us.”

“Fine. Whatever,” Luke sighed.

After breakfast, Luke was in charge of training with some of the younger demigods in the arena. Katherine had just been standing around in her own camp T-shirt, trying to fit in as she watched Luke affectionately. Although he didn’t particularly think he was, Luke was good with kids. It was endearing, how patient he was.

Katherine knew that, ever since he was a child, forced to survive on his own, Luke knew what it was like to be at a disadvantage. Furthermore, he knew what it was like to be constantly rejected and constantly shit on. Katherine saw that, in a way, he took advantage of his position as Head Counselor, using it to be to the younger kids what he’d wished he had when he was their age.

“You know, you’re not what I would’ve imagined Luke to like in a girl,” a voice interrupted her thoughts.

Katherine turned, arms crossed, to see who had dared to disturb her. She didn’t know the girl’s name, but she knew it was one of the daughters of Ares she’d seen at breakfast earlier. One of the ones who’d been encouraged to challenge her.

“I’m sorry, what’s your name?” Katherine asked pointedly.

“Gina Alvarez,” the tall, broad-shouldered girl crossed her arms.

There was an army of Ares and Aphrodite kids behind her, along with some others.

“Gina… I don’t know if you have some kind of unrequited crush on Luke, or if you just think I’m fresh meat… But I’m not interested in this high school bullshit,” she looked at her blankly.

“Good. I’m not either,” the younger girl agreed. “Man, you really think you’re the shit… You know, you might be able to dominate at a homeless shelter, but here, I always end every fight with two swords.”

Katherine chuckled softly, looking down at her feet for a moment before she spoke.

“You know, I’ve met a few of you Ares kids. Some of you are cool, but some of you really don’t think about who you’re fucking with,” she said calmly.

“Is that so?” Gina asked. “Then why don’t we settle this in the arena?”

Katherine smiled, not having any qualms about fighting this girl.

“Let’s do it.”

Gina Alvarez didn’t need any further encouragement. The spectators all laughed and murmured, ready for a show. Katherine decided to follow her as she suddenly burst into the arena, nothing but a sword in hand as she decided to disrupt everyone’s activities.

“Alright, everybody out!” she boomed, drawing attention immediately. “We’re gonna spar!”

Luke looked around, trying to determine who she was referring to when he saw Katherine standing behind her. He gave her a worried glance, trying to decide whether or not this sounded like a good idea.

“Are you sure about this?”

“I’ll be fine,” Katherine promised him, allowing him to come to her.

“Be careful,” Luke warned her, lightly kissing her to wish her good luck.

The quickly growing audience around them whooped and hollered like a pack of hyenas as they enjoyed the spectacle.

“Well? Are you gonna kiss your boyfriend, or are you gonna come fight?” Gina demanded as he cleared out the arena.

“Where’s your arm for?” Katherine taunted her back.

“I don’t need it,” Gina smiled, shrugging as her large portion of the audience cheered on her arrogance.

Luke just shook his head in dismay as Katherine nodded appreciatively.

“You’re fighting without armor?” she asked expectantly, eyebrow raised.

“Yup,” Gina grinned. “See, unlike you, street rat, some of us actually have enough training to go without it.”

Katherine nodded in amusement, considering all of her options.

“Alright. Well. I don’t need it either,” she announced, as Luke’s eyes widened. His mouth quickly formed a frown as he pursed his lips, disapproving of Katherine’s recklessness.

Everyone watched as she pulled Aphrodite’s lipstick tube out from her pocket. Luke watched in horror as she tossed it out over the arena for him to catch.

“I also… don’t need a weapon,” she announced, as the crowd of Half-Bloods gathered all around them roared with excitement.

“No,” Luke mouthed, watching as Gina seemed amused by Katherine’s confidence.

“Alright. Let’s see how this pans out for you,” the dark-haired girl agreed, readying her sword.

Katherine just remained calm, no discernible expression on her face as she simply put her fists up in front of her face, ready for a fight. Everyone was now silent, waiting in suspense. Many people seemed eager to watch Katherine lose the fight, while a bunch of others were cheering on her cockiness, mostly the sons of Ares and some of the Apollo kids.

A loud grunt cut through the maddening silence as Gina charged at Katherine, slashing her sword right at her and missing miserably. Katherine jumped to the left, ducking the blow and taking to the ground as she swept Gina with her foot, knocking her to the ground.

A bunch of the Ares kids laughed hysterically as the girl angrily hopped off the ground, humiliated by the fall. Glaring at Katherine with an immense hatred, she took another swipe at her with the sword, once again completely missing her as she leapt out of the way, coming behind Gina as she just barely turned quickly enough to avoid being caught off guard.

Everyone around him was yelling and screaming, but Luke found himself standing there in complete silence, arms crossed as he observed the fight. He had no idea what was going to happen, but he knew that if Gina actually hurt Katherine, he’d kill her himself. For a split second, Luke had to remind himself to focus on the fight in front of him before he spent too long thinking about strangling Gina Alvarez.

The fight seemed to be going well, as Katherine seemed to still have been able to completely avoid being hit or cut in any way. She seemed perfectly fine, more than fine. Taking advantage of Katherine’s currently passive fighting style, Gina attempted to deliver a finishing blow to her head with the hilt of her sword, just for Katherine to gracefully outmaneuver her, grabbing her by the elbow and managing to completely grab hold of the sword.

Before Gina even knew it, she was staring down the edge of her own blade, hands in the air as it came extremely close to her face.

“Where’s your two swords now?” Katherine asked her.

Those watching cheered for their winner, as Katherine just ignored the entire ordeal altogether, swinging the sword around so that she could hand it back.

“Here’s one,” she said, leaving the arena.

Sighing as he just shook his head at her, Luke rested his hand on Katherine’s back as he handed back her spear, deciding that was enough human interaction for the both of them. No one really messed with Katherine after that. Eventually, she began to fit in fairly well at Camp Half-Blood. She didn’t really have any friends, but she’d established something of a place for herself in their ranks.

Throughout the rest of the week, Katherine met plenty of people, most of which were welcoming to her as a new camper and as Luke’s girlfriend. Even a good amount of the Aphrodite kids were nice to her, complimenting her and sitting by her at meals. Gina didn’t bother her anymore, respecting the fact that she’d won their fight.

She’d had no trouble from the majoritu of the Aphrodite and Ares kids, except for a select few who were assholes to everyone else anyways. One group in particular were Adam Peters, an som of Ares, and his band of yes men, along with a group of girls they were friends with.

Up until a certain point, Katherine and Luke were able to disregard their childish comments and teasing. Up until a certain point. The trouble all started one Tuesday morning when everyone was still gathered around talking after breakfast, mostly all the older kids.

Luke had always hated Adam and his friends; they were all a bunch of sadistic meatheads who just liked to torment people. They were the kind of kids who picked on him when he was younger and smaller, and he just couldn’t stand them. He couldn’t stand the way they acted around people and got away with it, and he definitely couldn’t stand the way people actually liked them.

He was watching them standing around, messing with one of the younger Demeter kids before they went back to talking about whatever they were talking about. Of course, he really started to notice when he realized that they were talking about Katherine, who was standing off to the side talking to Destiny, a daughter of Aphrodite she’d found was actually nice.

This was one of the more rare occasions in which Katherine was dressed in her own normal clothes, a pair of jeans and a tank top. It was sunny out, and kind of warm, so she’d elected to be comfortable. But evidently, Adam and the sons of Ares couldn’t just leave her be.

“Luke’s girlfriend is so hot,” one of them stared. “I don’t know how a guy like Luke’s hitting that.”

Luke’s blood started boiling.

“You really think he is?” one of the others asked skeptically.

“How could he not?” Adam chimed in. “Look at her. She’s probably done, like, whole football teams and shit.”

Out of the corner of her eye, Katherine saw everything quickly unfold. She saw Luke fuming, and she saw him march up to Adam and his friends. She and Destiny quickly stopped talking, as Destiny began to panic.

“Oh my God, what’s happening?” the girl began to stare.

“Hey. What’d you just say about Katherine?” Luke demanded, his voice dark with a rage that simmered just below the surface.

Adam laughed at the taller guy, looking at him as if he were the one out of line.

“I wasn’t talking about your girlfriend, dude. Relax,” he scoffed, as the other guys started piling onto the confrontation.

“Don’t bullshit me, you know exactly what you were talking about,” Luke promised him, getting dangerously close as he pointed a finger at him. “If I ever catch you talking about Katherine like that again, or any girl, for that matter… I’m fucking rocking your shit.”

“Ooh.”

The other guys began quietly chuckling and laughing as they tried to gauge how Adam would handle the confrontation.

“What’d you say?” Adam all but puffed out his chest.

“I said, you talk about a girl like that one more time, I’m gonna punch you in the face,” Luke smiled, crossing his arms smugly.

There was something strangely humorous about his threat, as if he were about to burst out laughing even at the thought of something so violent in nature.

“You’re gonna punch me?” Adam demanded. “Next to me, you’re built like a stick.”

“I don’t think you wanna compare sticks with me,” Luke promised him with a smile.

This comment seemed to anger him far more than any of the others.

“I’m gonna beat you to a pulp,” Adam decided, stepping up.

“Can you spell pulp?” Luke asked.

Angered beyond measure, Adam took a swing at Luke as Katherine immediately stepped in. None of his friends tried to pull him back, but Katherine threw a hard punch at him as he and Luke tussled, trying to deter him like a giant shark. But Luke was able to handle the fight on his own, shoving Adam back as he threw another punch at him, getting him right in the nose.

Adam ignored the nosebleed, lunging at Luke as Luke got a couple more hits in, hitting his face and kneeing his rib cage. One of the other guys eventually decided to pull Adam back, as Katherine finally intervened and grabbed Luke, realizing that if he kept throwing punches, this would turn into a full blown brawl. Like was livid as he instinctively pulled against Katherine, teeth bared like an animal as he is one-track mind focused only on drawing blood.

Katherine grabbed him and quickly spun him around so that he was facing her, taking in the reddish purple bruise forming on his cheek. Luke took a moment to stop growling like an animal, her eyes bringing him back to reality as he forced himself to stop fighting against her, feeling awful as he worriedly cupped her face in his hands.

“Oh, Katherine, I’m sorry,” he apologized, looking at her apologetically.

“It’s okay,” she assured him, nodding as he held her. “You’re fine. Everything’s fine.”

“Are you sure?!” he asked her, panicking as the others left them alone.

“Yes, baby, I’m sure,” she breathed, trying to calm him down. “Just calm down. Take a deep breath.”

Luke sighed as her hands fell, brushing his arms as she loosened her grip on him.

“Come on. Let’s get you back to the room,” she said quietly, leading him away.

Although she knew he’d be perfectly fine, Katherine decided it’d be best if she tended to the gash on his face, dabbing at it with a cold cloth to soothe him. She was more focused on soothing him than his small wound.

“I don’t know what got into me,” Luke admitted apologetically, looking up at her as she sat down next to him on the bed.

“You don’t like it when people talk bad about me. That’s what got into you,” she said calmly.

“That’s not an excuse. I shouldn’t have acted like that. I shouldn’t have been acting like this… Ever since the diner,” he expressed guiltily.

“Luke,” Katherine murmured, affectionately cupping his face as she sank into his lap, “I don’t care. I Iike that you wanna stand up for me. Okay?”

He finally found comfort as he looked into her dark eyes, seeing everything he wanted. He could finally calm down.

“Okay,” he nodded, allowing her to help him.

She smiled softly, brushing his hair back with her hand.

“You know… It’s really hot, the way you like fighting the guys who disrespect me,” she cooed, brushing his lower lip with her thumb.

Luke looked up at her with wonder.

“Are we doing this right now?” he asked her.

“Only if you want to,” she murmured, her lips breathing hot air on his neck.

He groaned softly, hands dropping as she staryed to shift on his lap.

“Fuck, I want to.”

He pressed his lips against hers as she slid her fingers up into his short, dirty blond hair. He moaned at the friction she was causing, pulling away for a split second to appreciate the view of her. He watched with wide eyes as she began to grind herself against his knee, groaning as she practically got herself off on just his knee. He stared at her and absolute wonder, not sure that he deserved someone like her.

“You’re perfection,” he murmured, looking up at her in adoration.

She started grinding down harder on his knee, sighing happily as she found the sweet spot. She rocked back and forth, fucking his knee as he watched her, feeling like some sort of voyeur. She smiled with relief, throwing her head back in ecstasy as she slid her hands up his thighs, groping at his flesh through his pants as she rode his knee. The friction against her hole was frustrating in that it was just barely enough.

Luke panted hard as he tried to stop himself from getting to lost in her. He was taken completely by surprise as she aggressively mounted him, shoving him back on the bed. He landed with a thud on his back, glad in that moment that they had their own room and definitely couldn’t be heard by anyone, especially with the entire cabin being empty.

Luke just took a moment to look up at her helplessly as she pushed him down, grinning hungrily as she slid her hands up underneath his shirt. He moaned softly as her nails slightly scraped against his bare skin. He sighed happily, lying there as she tackled him, her lips and sharp teeth nipping at the sensitive skin on his neck. She knew all of his weak spots, and it made him dizzy.

Luke cackled like a maniac as she unexpectedly slapped him across the face. He knew it should’ve hurt, but in that moment, he was only burning with passion. Everything she did set him on fire and he wanted more of it. He watched with a nervous gulp as Katherine threw her shirt off, kissing his lips as she slowly moved her hands up his shirt, helping him take it off.

Luke watched her a she continued to get herself off on his thigh, rocking back and forth like a psycho. He chuckled in disbelief as she groaned like a porn star, eyes almost black with greed as she began to leave a wet spot on his knee.

“Fuck, baby…”

He eagerly threw his shirt over his head, looking up at her lovingly as she looked at him like her next meal.

“You’re so fucking nasty…”

Amused and captivated by his submission, she slapped him again, watching sadistically as he groaned. He inadvertently thrusted up against her, desperate for some sort of friction.

“Baby,” he whined, needing more.

“Yeah?” she looked down at him normally, as if nothing interesting was happening.

“Sit on my face,” he instructed eagerly.

Katherine smiled as she looked down at him, still met with a desperate furrow in his brows.

“Please, baby, just sit on my face,” he begged her. “I just…” he gulped as he watched her get up, quickly undressing.

She watched him like a hawk, ready to prey on him.

“Just wanna make you feel good, baby,” he babbled a bunch of nonsense. “Come on… Sit on my face. Come all over my face. Want you to come all over my face…”

She was nothing if not amused by his devotion.

“Want you dripping all down my chin,” he pleaded, watching as she slowly straddled him.

She leaned down, pressing a hard kiss to his soft lips. He nearly yelped involuntarily as she bit down on his bottom lip with her teeth. He didn’t know why, but he was currently in awe of her. He’d never seen her quite so hungry and animalistic before, and it was consuming him entirely. He needed her. He needed to feel her.

“Sit on my face, baby,” he babbled, already pussy drunk.

Luke watched with pleasure as she didn’t hesitate to sit on his face. Sighing with relief, he waited for her to sink down completely. Unable to contain his excitement, he grabbed her by the thighs, pressing them all the way down until his handprints started to become embedded in her soft flesh. He held her down on top of him, forcing her legs down as she moaned out loud, feeling his tongue inside her.

She gasped again as she felt his hands loudly smacking her thighs, leaving them red as he forced her down on top of him. She groaned with pleasure as tongue flicked at her most sensitive areas, his fingernails starting to dig into her thighs. She sat on his face for a while, in awe of how he neglected to even breathe as he ate her out.

Luke acted like his life depended on it. He moved his face up and down beneath her, licking harsh stripes up and down her folds, and flicking his tongue against her clit. He growled hungrily into her flesh, needing her to finish.

She had no idea exactly how long this went on for as she lost herself in the pleasure, but she knew they had a habit of taking their time together. She sighed exhaustedly as his strong hands forced her thighs down on top of him. His tongue licked up and down at an almost uncontrollable pace. He was an expert, and she couldn’t help gasping softly as she felt herself suddenly squirting as he groaned, lapping up every drop.

Luke growled like an animal as he licked it all up, like he was licking his entire plate after a good meal. She hardly noticed him thrusting and rifting up into the air as he became more and more aroused by her sitting on his face. Growing frustrated, he quickly sat up, almost startling her. But she didn’t have much time to adjust as he changed their positions.

He sat up on the bed, face still slick as he adjusted her on his lap.

“You’re gonna come again,” he announced roughly, lining up his long erection with her opening, “On my cock.”

She moaned quietly as she faced away from him, only feeling the sensation of him easily sliding in.

“Fuck, that was easy,” he gasped. “You’re so wet… Good fucking girl,” he praised excitedly.

He watched with a satisfied grin on his face as she slowly bounced up and down, taking him from behind as he grabbed her by the hair, roughly pulling her head back so that he could suck on her neck like some kind of crazed sex vampire.

“Fuck, I love the way you feel,” he gasped as she bounced up and down, “You like it, baby?” he asked considerately.

“Yes!” she groaned, just as aggressive as he was. “Fuck yes!”

She grabbed him by the hair, forcing his bites on her neck and collarbone to get even rougher. He had no idea what it was about her lately, but when Luke was with her, all his inhibitions went out the window. Even everything he said was more unhinged and full of unbridled passion.

“I’d do anything for you,” he babbled. “You’re my fucking girl… You want me to eat your pussy? I’ll eat your pussy. You want me to fuck you from the back, I’ll fuck you from the back… You want me to slit Adam’s throat and lick the knife for you to watch, I’ll do it. I’ll do it all, baby,” he laughed darkly.

Luke threw his head back in anticipation as she tightened around him, intentionally pushing him over the edge. Her fingernails dug into his thighs as she rested her hands on his knees to steady herself.

“Just come, baby,” he urged her. “Come on, you got it. Just come all over my cock…”

He whined aggressively, his breath hitching in his throat as she rode him harder and harder.

“You’re so fucking nasty, I love you,” he moaned, feeling her hand reach behind her to tug on his hair. “I love you,” he breathed.

He gasped lightly as he realized he came, the warmth penetrating her as she just grinned, enjoying how disgusting they were both being. He is breath grew shaky and labored as he watched her slowly coming down from her high, as her own wetness began to mix with his. Not fazed by any of it, she reached for his face and kissed his lips, hungrily getting a taste of herself through him.

His hands fell to her waist as he gently held her down on top of him, pulling away as his soft blue eyes looked into hers.

“I love you,” he whispered, absolutely pussy drunk.

He chuckled lightly as he got another smack across the face, sighing in ecstasy. He knew it shouldn’t have been, but the idea of violence in her name was what started all of this.

-

Chapter Fourteen

[xxsksxxx]

Almost Heaven

Summary:

Mulder’s attempt to find more exciting cases to investigate while stuck in the bullpen turns into another weekend trip to the forest.

Meanwhile, Scully is faced with a tempting offer that could change both her future and their lives.

This story is complete, and I’m going to post one chapter a day.

AO3 | Back to the Beginning | @today-in-fic

Chapter 7: To the Place I Belong

Alpos Lodge and Inn, Davis, WV Sunday, November 29th, 1998, 7:33 am

The sun had just started to rise, casting a warm light over the still-damp forest around their motel. The air was still cold, though, and Scully shivered, rubbing her arms over her jacket.

She opened the passenger door, getting in, while her mind was a mile away. She felt Mulder glance at her, probably still wondering about her swift departure last night. Scully knew he had been confused by her reaction to his perfectly reasonable suggestion to follow up on their case with the gunmen. Reasonable—if you had planned this trip only for a case, that is, she thought.

They slowly left the parking lot, the gravel under their tires crunching. Scully turned her face towards the side window once again. This time it wasn’t to suppress a yawn or a smile like she had done on their way into West Virginia the day before.

The trees began to blur into a green haze as the car picked up speed, and the only sound was Mulder cracking sunflower seed shells between his teeth once in a while.

The slow hum of the car’s engine was almost hypnotic, and Scully’s thoughts drifted back to Friday night’s call—and the job offer. It was a huge compliment that she was being considered for this role. And she was very aware of that. A decade ago, she would have jumped for joy. It was everything her younger self would’ve dreamed of. And even present Dana Scully couldn’t completely ignore that she felt flattered and honored.

But there was more to the offer than just a stroke to her ego, she knew. It was a chance to get back to the reason she had joined the FBI in the first place—that she had wanted to make a difference—answer a calling that she felt was true to herself and who she was as a person. She had gone against her father’s wishes to pursue this path—even to a point where she wondered if he could ever feel proud of her again.

This job could mean all of that and more. She would be able to make a difference in the way she had intended, and she knew it was a path her father would have respected. And she would also get back to their search for the truth. Their search, not Mulder’s. That’s how she had started to think of it ever since her sister had been murdered in her place. It had become as much her search for the truth as it was Mulder’s. Mulder. How was she going to bring this up to him now? After yesterday, I know even less what I want to do.

The car hit a pothole, and she gripped the door handle when they drifted slightly to the side.

“Sorry,” Mulder said quietly, glancing at her. “I didn’t think it would be that deep.”

Scully nodded and raised her wrist to check the time. She must have been deeper in thought than she realized because it was nearly 9:30 a.m. and the forest had given way to crop fields and farmhouses scattered throughout.

Mulder glanced at her again and added, “We’re not far out anymore. Another hour at the most.” He grabbed another sunflower seed from the bag perched in the center console and bit down on it.

Scully felt her stomach grumble and realized that they hadn’t stopped for breakfast yet to not lose time. “You want to get some coffee and something to eat at the next diner we pass?” she asked casually.

Mulder nodded. “Good idea. Let’s take a break there as well, we’re making good time so far.”

Scully turned her head back to look outside the window. A break. The word brought back last night’s exchange in Mulder’s room—the way, he had been confused by her suggestion to take a break together—to spend the day doing normal things, relaxing, and enjoying each other’s company. She cringed and closed her eyes against the memory. He’s just single-minded. And frustrated, she tried to rationalize. So am I. Doing meaningless tasks for Kersh, basically being put on the sidetrack, would be frustrating for anyone. And she knew that always hitting dead ends took its toll on him as much as it did on her. Probably even more. This had been his quest since he was twelve years old. Having his work sabotaged had to irritate Mulder to no end.

She chanced a glance in his direction, studying his features in the sunlight.

It wasn’t like she hadn’t been looking forward to researching this Mothman—or whatever Mulder expected to find this weekend—as well. But it isn’t just about the case, Scully thought. What about everything else? His and her definition of a normal life differed, she knew. But this felt like one step forward and two steps back—from nearly kissing in his hallway, to not even wanting to spend a day doing something other than work.

This is merely existing and not living, she sighed, resigned. Living seemed increasingly out of reach with each passing day. And time was not something she was willing to waste anymore. She’d learned that the hard way. Weekends in wet forests, chasing elusive monsters, and nights staking out abandoned warehouses in search of secret government conspiracies left little room for personal relationships outside what she had with Mulder. And he, with his single-minded focus, seemed oblivious to anything beyond their work.

Her mind flashed back to Mulder and last night and how he’d stopped her from checking his head—touching him really—for they both knew her checks for head trauma were more of a caress than an actual medical treatment. And she felt the rejection deep in her chest once again.

Mulder turned his head and gave her a lopsided smile when he noticed her looking at him before turning his eyes back to the road.

Did I completely misinterpret it all? Mulder’s a tactile person, maybe those constant touches are just his way of being close to someone he cares about. Maybe calling me every night is more about having a human connection. The realization hit her like a fist to the stomach.

What about the near-kiss? her inner voice questioned. Well, that had been a highly charged emotional moment. She’d just told him that she was going to leave. He must’ve felt like he was losing her. ‘You’ve kept me honest. You’ve made me a whole person. I owe you everything, Scully. And you owe me nothing,’ had been his words. Well, apparently that meant being his other half on the X-Files, but nothing more, she thought bitterly. Maybe he’d even regretted trying to kiss her later. That would explain why he hadn’t tried again—or at least mentioned it.

But before she could contemplate the confusing implications of a kiss that might have been, her phone buzzed, pulling her from her reverie. She glanced at the screen of her cell phone and recognized the number immediately. Skinner. Her heart raced as she answered, trying to keep her voice steady. “Hello?”

Mulder’s eyes flicked towards her; curiosity piqued, but he remained silent.

“Agent Scully, I wanted to follow up on our previous conversation,” Skinner said on the other end, his voice tinny over the hum of the moving car.

Scully’s grip tightened on the phone. “Can you hold on a moment?” She turned to Mulder, forcing a casual tone. “I need to take this. Would you mind pulling over?” She hesitated, then added. “It’s… personal.”

Mulder nodded, his expression unreadable. “Sure, hold on.” He pulled the car to a stop on the side of the road and turned the ignition off.

Scully stepped out of the car, walking a few paces away to ensure Mulder wouldn’t overhear, and turned around. He was sitting motionless in the driver’s seat, looking through the window at the crops to their left. She took a deep breath before putting the phone back to her ear, her mind racing with the implications of the offer.

“Sorry, sir. I’m able to talk now,” she replied, and Skinner continued. “I haven’t heard from you yet, and I’m aware this is all pretty short notice, but an opportunity like this doesn’t present itself very often. I’d like to set things in motion as quickly as possible. If you don’t want to take the role, I’ll have to find another fit that would be in line with all of our interests.”

Scully nodded, then realized he couldn’t see her. “Yes, I’m aware. And I’m very flattered that I have been presented with this chance, sir—which is why I want to give it the contemplation it deserves. I will get back to you until tonight,” she replied.

“Yes, that would be great, Scully,” Skinner responds, his voice tight and Scully knew he was under as much pressure as she was.

She heard the click of the disconnecting line and put her phone back into her coat pocket, slowly moving back toward the car.

Mulder was watching her out right now, a question all over his face. She swallowed and took a deep breath. It was time to make a decision.

[leviathxn]

“Little Lady to Little Wife”

Part 2 of “Little Girl to Little Lady”

Also I literally just deleted all of my work… so woohooo this is gonna come out later than I wanted it too. Overall not a good day today but I’m making this extra fluffy now to comfort myself

Also (d/n) is (dads/name). Use something generic like John if you have any reason to not put one.

Part 1 is over here!

Dads best friend! Miguel x Younger! Fem! Reader

Warnings: flufffyyyyyyyyyyyyyy

Summary : you and Miguel are happy, and things get better

Miguel opened his eyes slowly as the light from the window poured in. He looked down at his arms, seeing you always waking up from the natural light.

“Good morning querida” he says, pulling me gently by the waist to spoon me. He leaves small, sweet kisses on the back on my neck while slowly massaging my waist. He pressed himself into me, sharing his warmth. I smiled.

“Good morning Miggy.” I held his hand on my waist. I sighed happily and closed my eyes again, relishing in the warmth from Miguel. Luckily you were both morning birds so he didn’t have to feel bad about leaving you so soon. As much as he wanted to hold me and stay there for hours, that came with the risk of my dad coming in. There was a knock on the door. Miguel’s and I scrambled without a word. I ran into the bathroom while he put a shirt on and opened the door. My dad smiled at Miguel

“Good-morning! I’m gonna make breakfast for all of us so do you mind going and waking up the girls?” A wave of relief washed over Miguel. It made his life a lot easier since now he didn’t have to help me sneak back into my room.

“Yeah of course (d/n).” My dad smiled again and walked downstairs. I opened the door and walked over to Miguel. I wrapped my arms around his neck while he let his hands rest on my waist. I gently kiss his lips, cherishing ever second of passion. We break and I give him one last big hug, before leaving to go to my room Miguel kissed my forehead. “I love you querida.” I smiled and grabbed his hand.

“I love you too Miggy.” I left for my room, hurrying just in case. I walked in to see Gabriella resting peacefully. I changed my shirt and put on shorts. I was about to wake up Gabriella until I so a glimpse of myself in the mirror. The hickies and bite marks were extremely dark and there was no way you could walk down showing them off casually. I continued to look over myself, remembering last night. I smiled at the thought, remembering how much he did for me. I changed into a turtle neck since it wasn’t too hot outside.

I sat on the bed before gently shaking Gabriella’s shoulder. She groggily sat up rubbing her eyes. She looked around the room before she met my eyes. She lit up as she hugged me. I gave her a few of my old clothes, before helping brush out her hair and braiding it. As we walked down the stairs we talked about our plans for the day.

We joined Miguel and my dad at the table, the eggs, bacon and pancakes still perfectly hot. Me and Gabriella’s mouth watered at the sight as our fathers laughed. We all enjoyed our meal together as we decided to go to the park. As much as my dad wanted to come, he had a bit of work to catch up on in the office. Since he trusted Miguel with his life he let us three go, which was not out of the ordinary.

We made our way to the park, happy to see the swings open. No matter the age, me and Gabriella loved talking on the swings together. It was incredibly relaxing and calmed our nerves. Miguel sat on the bench as me and Gabriella started to swing. I knew that whenever me and Gabriella played that he would watch. I noticed he would stare at me more as I got older. After yesterday I finally knew why.

Losing track of time I noticed Miguel still staring, periodically checking his phone or taking pictures. We had been there for at least 2 hours. It was around 12 o’clock and me and Gabriella finished up our chat, going over to Miguel. I hugged Gabriella and kissed her cheek. Then I gave Miguel a big hug, staying in his arms for a few extra seconds.

“Miggy… when I move out can we tell my dad? I’m thinking of moving next year”. Miguel smiled at me and put his hand on my waist, forgetting that Gabriella was watching.

“Mi amor I’ll probably end up marrying you by that time. Why not just live with us-“

“Marry? As in (Y/N) being my mom? ‘Mi Amor’??” Gabriella asked questions as my face drained. I was so caught up in his physical touch that I forgot she was listening. “(Y/N) would be my mom? Are you already my mom??” She continued to question. Miguel let go of me and put his hand on her head.

“Would you be okay with that? We wouldn’t be able to tell her father for a bit”. Gabriella had as devious smile on her lips. I saw the sweat form on Miguel’s face

“I love keeping secrets like this!”. Miguel stared

“You’ve lied to me?”

“Don’t look at me! (Y/N) started it-“. I covered her mouth and looked at Miguel

“I have NO idea what she’s talking about. I would never influence her like that.” Gabriella moved my hand

“I wouldn’t call it influence. You bribed me”. I laughed nervously looking away. Miguel in shock that I would make Gabriella lie to him. Let alone that I would bribe her too.

“It was nothing ever bad!” I pleaded innocently , not wanting to remember the things I made her lie about. Gabriella pressed her lips together and stared at me before smiling back to Miguel.

“Yeah let’s forget I even mentioned it”. I let out a sigh of relief, Miguel still very confused and concerned decided to question it another time.

“Right… but back to what I was saying. Keep your mouth shut”. Gabriella pretended to zip her mouth and throw the key, saluting Miguel. We laughed as he pulled us in for a hug. I felt like I could fight off anything. It felt so wake with them too. It felt so perfect. As if nothing would ever go wrong.

It had been about a year now. We still had our family nights, me and Miguel having a late night activity every now and then. Me and Gabriella spent even more time together than ever. I was already a mother figure, but now it was enhanced. It was a bit weird to others and I can agree, I was only 5 years older than her but that didn’t change anything for us. And my dad didn’t suspect a thing. Well we thought he didn’t.

We were all having dinner, homemade tacos, thanks to dad! We had our usual conversations. I talked about my plans to move out with Miguel and my dad.

“Mom can you pass me the cheese?” I subconsciously handed it to her while still talking. My dad stared at me with wide eyes. I tilted my head, confused why he seemed so shocked all of a sudden. Until I realized my mistake.

“Mom? I knew you guys were close but not THAT close”. Miguel nervously chuckled as I put my head down. Gabriella looked panicked, sorry for her mistake.

“Well you know how much my daughter loves (Y/N)!” He tried to excuse. My dad continued to stare at Miguel, noticing how quickly he jumped in. He knew Miguel, and he knew he would’ve laughed and asked Gabriella what that was about.

“Miguel…. Are you with my daughter?” My jaw dropped from the shock and Miguel’s eyes widened

“Dad! There’s nothing like that-“

“And if I was? What would you do?” There was silence for the longest time. I tended up, I felt like I’ve as gonna. I was so close to moving out, why couldn’t this happen later?

Until my dad laughed. And it wasn’t just a chuckle he was fully clutching his stomach laughing. Me and Miguel looked shocked.

“I knew it! I knew you were a weirdo! You always looked at (Y/N) weirdly! I so called this”. I blanked. He was acting like this was some bet he had. Miguel looked like a knife stabbed into his head.

“A weirdo? Me?? What are you talking about?” Miguel hadn’t seen my dad like this in a while

“Dad what- are you serious please-“. He cut me off by raising his hand

“What’s the word? A male cougar?” Miguel sighed, knowing where he was going with this.

“A manther?”

“Yes a manther!” He continued to laugh before finally calming down. My nerves were still tight. I was still so confused. My dad looked over to me and smiled.

“Listen (Y/N) I know you’re confused but… if there’s anybody I trust with you it’s Miguel. Sure you’re way younger but… yeah I can’t defend it much but it feels right”. Tears pricked the corner of my eyes. I hugged him while letting them fall. This was the best outcome for my dad finding out. Miguel and Gabriella joined the hug. We stayed there for a bit before Gabriella’s stomach rumbled.

“Sorry I didn’t eat because of the tension”. We all laughed and went back to eating.

“So how long have you guys been together…. Oh nevermind- I don’t want to think about how long you guys have been doing whatever”. Miguel laughed at him and pretended to wipe tears. My dad hated when he did that.

“(D/N) for calling me weirdo you’re pretty dense”. My dad threw a taco shell at Miggy.

“I’m still older than you! I deserve respect”. Me and Gabriella felt the sweat drop. Grown men were acting like children. But again men will be men. We giggled as Gabriella smiled from ear to ear

“Mom! It worked out so well”. I nodded my head, grabbing her hand across the table. I was about to say something else before my dad had accidentally thrown lettuce at me. I felt my blood boil before tossing tomato bits at him

“Cant you let me and Gabriella have a moment!”

I felt the petals fall into my hair and on my dress as me and Miguel ran out of the revenue. My dad had opened the limo door for us as we jumped into it. My dad told us to enjoy ourselves as he would take care of Gabriella that night. It had been 3 years since that dinner night. Miguel grabbed my hand in the car and pulled me into another kiss. I wrapped my arms around his shoulders and pulled him closer to me. He broke the kiss and cusped my cheek.

“A little Lady…. To my perfect little Wife”

Okay sorry for the delay, and if it’s short. I haven’t had any motivation after the original work got deleted so I worked on this quickly

Hope you guys enjoyed!

[naesarangyunho]

Safety Net- Choi San X male reader

[I don't own these images credits to the original owners]

TW: DISCUSSION OF AN ABUSIVE PAST RELATIONSHIP, PANIC ATTACKS

SFW

(Mature themes though- discussions of sex, cursing)

A/N: I don't usually write hurt/comfort or angst but I was listening to Safety Net by Ariana Grande and this came to mind. I'm not sure if this is good or not since it's a little out of my comfort zone but I hope you like it.

Disclaimer: I know that people experience things differently and handle them differently too, so what I wrote may not apply to everyone and I don't pretend to know how others feel about certain things.

Synopsis: After being in a heavily toxic and abusive relationship that left him losing all faith in love and relationships, San seeks out a casual lover. However, soon enough things become not so casual and San falls in love and the thought absolutely terrifies him.

Contains: mentions of an abusive past relationship, panic attacks, angst, hurt/comfort, there's a happy ending though so dw!

[Word count: 4.4k]

Profound revelations. Most often they are triggered by something significant. You win a massive tournament and as you hold the trophy you realise that hey, you're actually pretty amazing. Or perhaps it comes to you when your newborn baby is laid in your arms and as you look into their little face you suddenly realise just how much you love being alive. Or when you look into the eyes of your partner as you exchange wedding vows, and you become aware of the overwhelming love you feel for them and have it slam you hard in the chest. But for San, when his revelation struck him there was no significant trigger nor any significant event. When his revelation struck him it was at eleven pm at a table by a 24/7 convenience store window. 

He hadn't meant to stay that long at Y/n's home; he usually made an effort to leave as soon as possible after hookups and avoided staying the night but sometimes he couldn't help himself, losing track of time as his gaze washed over Y/n and his post-sex glow, his sleepy eyes and his warm, lazy smile as he curled up in bed afterwards. 

San hadn't been looking for anything serious in the beginning, he really hadn't, and he had made that clear in his online dating profile. And had made it clear once more that he only wanted casual sex when he went home with y/n the first time. He hadn't provided reasons as to why he felt that way, not feeling comfortable enough to open up about his ex-girlfriend and how things had ended up with her, and although San could sense that Y/n wasn't entirely happy with the way things were, he never pushed San. San respected that about him. 

He got along very well with y/n and things with him had been good. Too good, San later discovered. Somewhere along the line, the hookups grew in frequency. As he grew more comfortable with Y/n, he spent more time with him and soon started staying over more often than he'd like to admit. Spending the night started leading to getting breakfast together which started bleeding into lunches and eventually into this: convenience store cheese and sausage tteokbokki and carefree laughter as they relayed childhood stories. 

It was somewhere within that time frame that as his eyes traced y/n's lips as he spoke, thinking of how beautiful his smile was instead of only thinking about the things that mouth could do, that San's revelation had struck him. No heavily significant occurrence or life-changing event- just the warm, dorky smile of the man he was sleeping with. 

His heart dropped into the pit of his stomach and his smile faded. Panic settled in the empty space in his chest where his heart had been less than a minute ago, his grip tightened on his disposable fork and sweat slowly began to bead on his temples. 

His throat was tight and when the man across from him murmured a gentle, "San, are you alright?" he had struggled to croak out a response. 

"Yes, I'm okay. My throat is just a little dry." He rasped. Bullshit excuse.

Y/n got up without any hesitation, only thinking of helping San, "I'll go get you some water, just hang tight." 

San offered him a weak smile, "Thank you." 

The soft smile he gave San in response shot straight through his heart and he watched him disappear into the aisles. 'Fight or flight?' he considered as he heard the fridge towards the back of the store click open in the silence of the store. His leg bounced under the table as he considered things. 

Flight. 

He pulled his phone out of his pocket and pulled up his chat with his friend and roommate Yunho. 

Me: hyung I need u to call me in 2 mins and pretend there's an emergency

Tall mf: what? What's wrong? I thought you were with y/n?? 

Me: plz just do it

Tall mf: fine. 

True to his word, San's phone began ringing just as Y/n sat down in front of him again, the loud ringtone slicing harshly through the silence of the store. 

Y/n pushed San's water towards him with that signature warm smile that always had San's stomach doing flips. 

San held up his pointer finger and answered his phone, "Sorry, one second."

"Hyung?" San answered the phone feigning surprise at the sudden call from his friend. 

"Hi. You wanted me to call but I don't know what you're expecting me to say." 

"What? Wooyoung did what?!" 

"Uh… He's done a lot of things this evening. Nearly burned our home down trying to make some flambé crap."

"Shit, wooyoung burnt himself? I'll be home in ten minutes." 

"Choi San you better tell me what the fuck is going on when you get home."

San just hung up on him and looked back at Y/n who had concern painted all over his handsome face- he was work colleagues and good friends with Wooyoung. 

"Woo burnt himself? Do you need me to help take him to the hospital?" 

Why the fuck did Y/n have to care so much? Why did he have to be so kind? None of this was making it easier on San. He felt sick. 

He shook his head, "No, it's not that bad. Yunho just doesn't know how to treat it." 

Another bullshit lie- Yunho had a qualification in first aid. 

"Oh, well, do you need me to drive you home?" 

San stood up and shook his head once more, "It's alright, I'll get an Uber. It'll be quicker." 

He passed some money over to him to pay for their impromptu late-night meal and grabbed his things. 

"Hey, you don't need to-" Y/n started but the door had already shut behind San. 

Y/n stared at the glass door, watching San's form fade into the darkness outside until he could no longer see him. A feeling of unease settled in him and he had no idea why. 

***

"San, respectfully, you look like crap. What the hell happened?" Yunho said from where he had been standing in the entryway waiting for San to come home, concern racing through his system. 

"I-" San looked like he was going to cry and Yunho panicked. He wrapped an arm around his friend and roommate and guided him to the sofa in the living room. 

San sunk into the couch and leaned against his tall friend and Yunho wrapped an arm around him. 

"Speak please, San-ah. You're kinda scaring me." 

San was silent for a moment longer, staring at his lap, before finally speaking up. 

"I- I'm in love." 

"Jesus, San. I thought someone died." Yunho breathed in relief but tightened his arm around his friend. 

"With Y/n?" Yunho queried and San nodded. 

"San, it was bound to happen. You spend so much time with him. You've even introduced him to us." 

San buried his face in Yunho's shoulder, "I know, I just-" 

San choked out a sob that had Yunho's heart aching, "I'm so fucking scared, Yu." 

Yunho turned to wrap both his arms around San and pull him to his chest in a warm hug, "Sannie, it's alright. You don't need to be, especially not with Y/n." 

"I know, Yunho but after her I just-" San started properly crying as memories of his ex-girlfriend surfaced in his mind. Memories he'd so desperately tried to forget. 

"Y/n isn't her. He wouldn't do that to you." 

"Yunho, you don't know that. She was sweet in the beginning too." 

"Sannie, she's not worth thinking about, try and forget her, please. I know she hurt you but that was over a year ago now. Don't let her ruin this for you too. You deserve to be happy, San. You really do." 

"I'm trying, hyung. I'm trying to…" San's breathing started picking up as memories started pouring into his thoughts. Screams. Slaps. Broken glass.

"Sannie, I need you to breathe for me." 

"Yunho, I'm scared. Yunho, it hurts. Yunho, I'm scared. Yunho, I-" 

His throat closed up and his vision started going fuzzy as panic completely overtook him. 

"Sannie, remember your breathing exercises. Count for me, please." 

"One hundred, ni-" San tried to croak out and Yunho tried to calm his own breathing, placing San's hand on his chest. 

"Come on, Sannie. Like that." 

"Yunho, I cant-" 

"Yes, you can. You've got this." 

San's breathing slowed down just the slightest. 

"Here," Yunho helped San down onto the living room carpet, "Head between your knees." 

San followed Yunho's instructions and tried his best to anchor his mind to the steady circles Yunho rubbed into his back. He struggled for a while longer, desperately trying to purge the panic from his system and clear his foggy mind. After a while, he managed to start gasping out words. 

"Ninety-nine, ninety-eight, ninety…" 

"There you go, Sannie." Yunho encouraged gently.

"Ninety-seven, ninety-six…" 

Yunho sat down next to him on the carpet and continued to rub his back, patiently waiting until San finally breathed out a gentle, calm "One" 

"Are you good now?" Yunho murmured and San nodded, reaching for Yunho. Yunho smiled, opened his arms wide for him and gave him a big hug. 

"Just push all of that out of your mind for now, okay?" Yunho murmured and San nodded against his chest, "Okay." 

"You'll eventually have to sort this out with Y/n, San, but you've had a stressful night. You should just go get some rest, alright? Reflect on it when you've rested well and have a clear mind."

San nodded again and slowly moved out of Yunho's hold to stand and move to his room. Yunho stood with him and followed. 

"I feel so stupid, Yu. I'm sorry for behaving like that." San said as he climbed under his covers. 

"Don't apologise and don't feel stupid, Sannie. You've been hurt and naturally, that would stress you out. Your feelings are valid." Yunho said as he tucked San in. 

"Thank you."

"Of course. Now get some sleep. " Yunho murmured, handing Shiber to San before leaving the room, flicking the light off as he closed the door. 

Yunho was right, he did need to think this through. He needed to remember that things were different now. He pushed the thoughts back, 'just for tonight' he promised himself. 

San closed his eyes and fell into an uneasy sleep. 

***

It wasn't just for that night like he had promised himself. In the few weeks that passed, San kept pushing both his thoughts and Y/n away. 

He came up with constant excuses. He had overtime. He had too much work. He had exams to study for or assignments to work on. Family functions. Anything that seemed plausible when in fact he had mostly been haunting his bedroom, barely getting out of bed. He used up all his sick days at work, fell behind in university course work and barely spoke to his friends outside of Yunho who he lived with and Wooyoung who practically lived in their flat too. 

Yunho and Wooyoung's hearts ached to see their friend like this. They didn't want to push him or force him into anything but this was unhealthy. They knew that his ex-girlfriend had messed him up real proper especially since they had been the ones to help put him back together afterwards. They were the ones who helped him through nightmares and depressive episodes and eventually managed to get him to go to therapy. 

They knew better than anyone how much the prospect of love scared San after watching him fall further and further apart with and after his ex but they also knew Y/n very well at this point, seeing him more often than would be considered appropriate for what was meant to be a casual hookup. And more so as well when he started working with Wooyoung and hanging out with him outside of work too. 

This was inevitable, especially with how San slowly and unintentionally started letting him further and further into his personal life. San trusted him, at least to an extent and perhaps subconsciously but he trusted him nevertheless and they wished San would realise that and do something about the situation he was in. 

Luckily the opportunity to fix everything arose just before Yunho and Wooyoung were considering staging an intervention. 

San had texted Y/n the shitty excuse that he had picked up a bug and was feeling really sick and naturally concern had taken over on Y/n's part and despite having the feeling that San didn't want to see him he couldn't help but decide to visit him and check up on him. 

He had made soup himself and also stopped by the convenience store, the same one that had served as a catalyst, to buy all of San's favourite snacks before making his way to San's flat. 

He had been beyond nervous as he knocked on the front door. It had been almost three weeks of almost complete radio silence only disturbed by excuses Y/n had begun to realise were complete rubbish. 

After receiving no response, he began to think that perhaps he had made a horrible mistake and turned around to leave but stopped in his tracks as he heard the door handle click and the door open. 

He turned around again, heart hammering in his chest but calmed a little when he saw Yunho's head peeking out the doorway before the tall man stepped into the hallway. 

"Y/n?" 

There was the sound of a door slamming within the flat at the mention of Y/n's name and Y/n frowned as did Yunho whose gaze flicked into the flat briefly. 

"Is now not a good time?" 

"Not entirely I suppose but I think it's about time something was done about this." 

"About what?" Y/n queried, holding the Tupperware of soup tighter at the sense of foreboding. 

"Um, just come in and keep an open mind I suppose?" 

"You're kinda scaring me," Y/n said as he stepped into the flat, Yunho taking the food from him as he kicked off his shoes. 

Y/n followed him to the kitchen and Yunho put the food down on the counter, giving Y/n a questioning look. 

"Oh, San said he wasn't feeling well so I made him some soup. It usually helps me when I'm not feeling well." 

Yunho stared at him for a moment and then at the bag of snacks, "And you bought his favourite foods and drinks?" 

Y/n nodded, "He might not want to eat them right now but perhaps when he's feeling better he'd like them." 

Yunho stared at him again and Y/n shrunk a little under his gaze, "What? Did I do something wrong?" 

Yunho shook his head, "Nothing at all. I love him but fucking hell San's so stupid sometimes." 

"What do you mean?" 

Yunho just shook his head, "Go to him. You know where his room is." 

Y/n gave him a confused look but followed his instructions. What the hell was going on? 

He knocked gently on San's door but got no response so he knocked louder. 

"Go away." 

Y/n's heart sank a little, "Sannie, it's me."

He was met by silence before finally the door opened to reveal a dishevelled San. 

"Come in," he said simply, stepping out of the way so Y/n could do so. 

He carefully took a seat on the edge of San's bed as San sat back against his headboard and looked at him silently. 

Y/n smoothed his hands out on his thighs nervously, "So, uh, you said you were sick so I made you soup and bought some snacks too. You don't have to eat them right now but-" 

"Why the fuck do you have to be so nice to me?" San bit out and Y/n was startled at the tone of his voice. 

"Because I care, San." 

"We fuck. That's it. You're not my fucking boyfriend so why are you doing this to me?" 

Y/n's heart dropped into his stomach and tears pricked at his eyes at San's harsh words but he remembered Yunho telling him to keep an open mind, whatever that meant, so he took a deep breath and swallowed back his tears.

"I know that, San. Trust me, I know that. What exactly am I doing to you that you feel the need to talk to me like that? Did I do something wrong?" 

"You're fucking with my head. That's what you're doing." 

"San… I don't understand." 

San groaned and ran a hand through his messy hair, "Of course you don't." 

Y/n just stared at San in confusion, waiting for him to continue.

"What I mean is, why are you like this? Why do you worry about me? Why do you text me during the day? And why the fuck do you smile at me with that warm smile of yours? Why do you have to watch me with that sparkle in your eyes? It's killing me."

"San, I care about you. That's why. I know I'm just someone you fuck but fucking hell do I care about you. I'd drop everything for you. That's exactly why I act like this." 

San looked at him and Y/n saw tears brimming in his eyes. 

"San, are you okay?" Y/n asked, panicking a little and reaching out to San. 

San moved out of his reach, "Don't touch me." 

Y/n frowned but retracted his hand, "Okay." 

Y/n didn't know what else to say so all he could do was stare silently at San, his heart aching for that other man. 

San sniffed, "Do you love me?" 

Now that took Y/n off guard. What was he supposed to say in response? Was it a trick question? If he was honest and said he did, would this all fall apart and result in San never wanting to look at him again? If he lied he would feel even worse. He couldn't do that to San. If there was one thing Y/n valued above all else, it was honesty. 

"Why do you want to know that?" 

"Please, just answer the question, Y/n." San sounded almost desperate and Y/n wanted so badly to reach out and hold him. 

Y/n gulped, "Yes. So very much, San. So much that it scares me." 

A tear slipped past the confines of San's lashes at his confession, "I'm scared too. I'm so scared, Y/n. So scared."

And then it was like a dam broke in San and tears breached his lashline and wouldn't stop falling. Y/n tried to reach for San again in a panic and this time San let him, sinking into his embrace. Tears bubbled up inside Y/n at the way San shook in his arms.

"Shhh, Sannie. I'm here." Y/n murmured into San's hair as he held him close. 

San was soaking his shirt but he didn't care, all he cared about was finding out what had made San this scared. What had San crying like this? He hated seeing him like this. How could he help? 

"Will you tell me why you're crying?" He murmured and San pulled out of his hold. 

"Can I trust you?" San sniffled and Y/n nodded. 

"Of course you can. You can always trust me."

San so badly wanted to believe him. 

"Before I tell you why I'm crying, can I tell you something else?" 

"You can tell me anything, I'll always listen." Y/n placed his hand on San's knee gently. 

San looked down at his hand, he wanted to take it in his. Not yet. He looked up at Y/n's face again. He couldn't see any signs of dishonesty or ill intent. 

"About a year and a half before I met you, I was in a long-term relationship with this girl." 

Y/n wondered where this was going. His mind started racing but he shoved his thoughts back and focused solely on San's words. 

"She was the first person I truly loved. She was everything I wanted. She-" 

San took a deep breath and Y/n just patiently waited, stroking his knee gently with his thumb. 

"She was the perfect girlfriend in the beginning and then sometime into our relationship something changed inside of her." 

San carefully reached for Y/n's hand, seeking some kind of anchor within his emotional turmoil and Y/n instantly took it, letting San squeeze it as he spoke. 

"She hurt me very badly. Emotionally and physically," 

Y/n tried to avoid thinking about the various scars he'd seen on San's body and tried to avoid concentrating on the scar that ran along one side of  San's forehead but San noticed.

"Yes, she did that. She got drunk and angry and threw her wineglass at me." 

Y/n gasped softly and felt tears finally fall from his eyes. He squeezed San's hand tightly but didn't say anything. 

"I… I do not feel comfortable going into further detail with everything that happened, I hope you don't mind." 

Y/n shook his head, "That's perfectly alright, Sannie. You don't have to tell me anything you don't want to. I respect that."

San gave him a half-hearted grin. It hurt Y/n so badly to see San's usually bright demeanour shattered like this. 

San took another steadying breath "The point is, she fucked me up, Y/n. So badly. As cliché as it may sound,  I lost faith in love and relationships. The thought terrified me, still does, because I fall in love so deeply and become so completely vulnerable and I'm terrified of being completely vulnerable and getting hurt like that again."

Y/n was silent for a minute, absorbing everything San had told him before he spoke up again. 

"Thank you for telling me that and trusting me with that information, San." 

San just nodded almost imperceptibly. He didn't know what else to say. 

"Will you tell me why you were crying?" 

San looked at him, cheeks and lashes still wet and Y/n could see the hesitation in his eyes. Just as Y/n was about to tell him that it was okay and that he didn't have to respond, San spoke up. 

"Because I-" San's voice cracked and he paused, calming himself, and Y/n just gave him a reassuring smile and squeeze of the hand. 

San gulped, "Because I love you." 

Y/n's eyes widened and his breath hitched. 

San started crying again and Y/n reached out to slowly cup his face in his hands, giving him time to object but he didn't.

"I'm so fucking pathetic," San muttered through a sob. 

Y/n shook his head and stroked San's cheek, "You are not. You are so far from pathetic. I might not know exactly what you went through but you're so strong for moving forward from that. You may not think so, Sannie, but you are so incredibly strong."

"You think so?" 

Y/n nodded, "San, I know you're scared but I just want you to know that you don't need to be with me. I meant it when I said I love you. I want you to know that I can be patient. I want to help you learn to love freely again. I want you to know what real love feels like because holy crap do you deserve it." 

San leaned into his palm, sniffing and listening carefully, some of his usual light slowly creeping back into his eyes. 

"You don't have to be scared of messing up with me. I can be your safety net. I'll be here to catch you every time you slip and fall." Y/n murmured, stroking San's cheeks with his thumbs.

San reached forward to cup Y/n's face in his hands, "Even when I freak out like this?" 

"Especially then. I'll hold you through every moment when you feel weak. I'll support you when you can't support yourself."

"Do you mean that?" San asked, giving him a searching look as he wiped his face with his sweatshirt sleeve. 

Y/n smiled that warm smile that always had San's heart fluttering, "With everything in me." 

San finally offered him a real smile and leaned in to press a soft kiss to his lips, "Thank you." 

Y/n pressed another kiss to his lips in response, "Thank you for your honesty. I'm really proud of you, Sannie."

San just nodded and pulled back, "Do you mind if I go take a shower?"

Y/n offered him another warm smile, "Not at all. Would you like me to warm some soup up for you in the meantime?" 

"That would be amazing, thank you," San replied and pressed another kiss to his lips before hopping out of bed and snatching his towel from his desk chair before going off to the bathroom. 

San turned the water on and waited for it to heat up and watched the drops as they fell from the shower head, the sight and sound almost therapeutic. He felt lighter. He felt hopeful. He felt loved. As much as this all still terrified him, he chose to trust Y/n because Yunho had been right, Y/n wasn't her. 

San had a chance to start over. He had a chance to learn to love again, to learn to trust again and had someone willing to take things slow. Despite the feeling of uncertainty that still naturally lingered inside of his heart, he truly felt a lot more optimistic. He knew that the road to recovery, per se, was going to be tough and that it would take time to undo the damage that had been done to him, he knew that it was inevitable that he'd struggle and make mistakes but he had Y/n now. He could be free to make those mistakes and go through those struggles because he knew that he would be safe because now he had a safety net. 

[ikkaku-of-heart]

@goshiikkuburcdo

Ikkaku knew she was being irrational. Dracule Mihawk was the World's Greatest Swordsman and he didn't just luck into that title or anything. He'd earned it by taking down anyone and everyone who dared challenge his blade and kept it just the same. He was a Warlord for a damn reason and took down entire fleets of ships on his own.

Mihawk was insanely powerful, and yet the thought of him heading into battle against the Marines filled her with uncontrollable anxiety. It was said so casually over breakfast as if he were simply going to do some gardening or read in the library. And Ikkaku knew she had no right to interfere with Mihawk's business. Even less so now that Law and Mihawk weren't Warlords anymore. She was a guest in his castle while Law was off taking care of some plan he'd felt was best done alone.

"I don't...of course I have a high opinion of your skills," Ikkaku replied, eyes lowering in shame over her reaction. "And I have gotten attached to you, whether you like it or not. Guess I have a thing about clinging to yellow-eyed, grumpy swordmen." An attempt to keep things light, as Ikkaku had found herself doing more and more as of late. Between Law's increasingly intense moods and the creeping sense of dread that had been clawing at the back of her mind over the past few years, it was almost instinctual. But she knew Mihawk wasn't the type to be dissuaded. If he was openly telling her to talk about what was on her mind, it was unlikely he'd accept her backtracking and telling him everything was fine. Those damn hawk eyes would see right through her lies.

So she sighed, looking down at where her fingers were still loosely wrapped around his wrist. Ikkaku hadn't even thought about trapping his hand. She just did it, and she was still loathe to let it go, even if he'd agreed to stay so she could say her piece. Just the thought made her gut clench like when Law had left her behind.

"Listen, I know you're strong. You're the best in the world at what you do for a damn reason. But the Navy's actually after you now, and I just...I can't help but worry, ok? About you going off on your own, no one watching your back. Especially against Marines. You're strong, but you're still human, and all it takes is one lucky bullet or knife to the back and...I could lose you. You've got a target on your back because you're strong, and that means the Marines aren't going to play by the rules. Not that they ever did, really. But they'll use every dirty trick they've got and I probably won't even know you're dead until they brag about it in the papers."

A few hot tears stung her eyes before they fell into her teacup. "I just wish you'd let someone have your back to keep that from happening."

ikkaku-of-heart asked: hold my muse’s hand to stop them from leaving

hand touching meme!

All he'd done was impress his need to take care of business. There was due to be a group of marine warships patrolling that he'd gotten word of. Mihawk did NOT want that element anywhere near where he himself considered his territory.

It was also a bit cathartic to feed into that piece of him that hungered for blood. It didn't so often rear its head, but now and again he looked to let loose, so he didn't lose control too often in other aspects of his life.

He hadn't realized the sort of rection telling the heart mechanic of his day's plans would garner such a reaction. Her touch was soft but firm, her expression filled with fear and hurt. This couldn't just be because of him. It was still strange and momentarily jolting it considering he wasn't the warmest person. He'd never been an anchor or safe space for others. But her hand had still shot out so quickly to keep him from leaving.

His severe gaze softened for a moment, and he gave a sigh before sitting once more. "I thought I had mentioned I'd been planning to rid this area of pests.. They've gotten too close now and after our tea, I had no other plans. It seemed rather a perfect time to become the hunter." Her hand still wrapped around his, the grip had loosened some, but hadn't fully relented its grasp. He'd not pulled away either.

"I assume you don't mean to underestimate my skills. Either you've become terribly attached to me, which confounds me....or there is something else troubling you. I will delay a bit. But not forever. Perhaps you would feel better sharing your troubles first."

[padfootastic]

darling! my love <3 what scene in darling™ took the longest to write? (q25)

also 5! and question 10 for "i fall to peices when I'm with you" or alternatively, how i remember that story - james just fucking up with sirius's blood circulation by existing

ashhhh thank u for single-handedly keeping my blog relevant lmao

the scene in darling is the one i’m stuck on right now lmao. keep in mind it’s not completed (or anywhere close to) bc my brain refuses to cooperate. i have a vision in mind and the longer it takes to translate it on paper (a screen?) the more frustrated i get 😭😭

but, of the two parts, the bit about introducing chai was weirdly hard? idk why.

5. Do you listen to music when writing?

yep! usually prefer classical or something in a language i can’t understand so i don’t get distracted by singing along, but the other alternative is choosing one song and having it on repeat the whole time so it becomes white noise.

the third option is the dulcet tones of my family yapping in the background while i’m trying to write someone getting dicked down~

10. What is the line you’re proudest of from [Fanfic Name]? 

ok see this one’s tricky because i loved so many parts of it but either the ‘i called you pretty and you flushed all cute-like’ or any of the references to james’ ego/stubbornness or this one.

“Uh huh, sure.” The dip in that last word was so sceptical that Sirius straightened up, pulled together the haughtiest expression he could manages—which, considering he was a Black, was quite haughty—and sneered.

“What are you doing here, anyway? Shouldn’t you be off, I don’t know, working on your ability to talk to a girl?”

“Ouch,” Remus deadpanned, mechanically holding a hand up to his chest in a parody of offence. “Save the claws for someone who likes that kind of shit, Pads.” He shot a meaningful look at the display to their left.

because the snarky sirius-remus banter was surprisingly fun in cutting through the sugary sweet prongsfoot lol

(also ur alternative title is absolutely on point. james only needs to exist for sirius’ bp to go all haywire)

From this ask game!

[randomshyperson]

CEO!Wanda Maximoff x Reader - Resigned Position - Final Chapter

Summary: You drink too much and insult your boss in the middle of a bar during a company social gathering. But surprisingly, you wake up in her bed. Following the events of not sleeping with your boss, falling in love with her, or threatening a harassment report. Not necessarily in that order.

Warnings: (+18), sexual themes, Dom!Wanda (mostly), Brat!Reader, Unspecified age gap (Milf Wanda/Reader in her mid-20s), explicit language || Words: 7.184k

All Works Masterlist || AO3 || Series Masterlist

--//--

Resigned Position - Final Chapter

After saying goodbye to you, Pietro did not return to the company as originally planned. Instead, he went shopping, and with a really curious Monica Rambeau on the phone, spent a few hours in the most expensive stores of the New York business district choosing an ideal outfit for his twin sister. At lunchtime, he drove back to the Maximoff Company, and after greeting the front desk staff, walked up to Wanda's office.

The man frowned slightly when after knocking on the door, he entered and was faced with Wanda sitting on the carpet with her legs crossed and her eyes closed.

"Did you finally lose your mind? I'm taking the boys and the apartment if you get locked up." He mocked, to which he only received an impatient sigh before the woman opened her eyes and leaned over slightly to turn off her cell phone which echoed soft music throughout the office.

"It's called meditation." She clarifies as her brother enters and closes the door, the bags in hand he places on the armchair, and Wanda frowns in curiosity at the items. "What are these?"

"I brought you presents." Pietro explains with a smile. "But I think maybe I should have brought some medicine."

"Fuck off." Wanda mumbles with a short laugh that her brother shares. The woman stands up unhurriedly, stretching her legs and arms before walking toward the bags. She hums curiously as she notices the fancy clothes inside. "Why did you buy me a dress?"

"For you to wear tomorrow." Answered her brother casually, moving to occupy the empty armchair.

"But why?"

Pietro chuckles at his sister's suspicious expression, "It's a gift. Like, a courtesy for bothering you for the last few weeks."

Wanda gives a short laugh, "Pietro, you're not a nuisance."

"Okay, so it's an apology for interrogating your girlfriend." He says, and Wanda frowns immediately.

"Excuse me?"

"Before you get mad, it was just breakfast." He says but Wanda already has her eyebrow raised in disbelief, her arms crossed. "I wanted to know what her intentions were."

"I'm going to kill you."

Pietro laughed, raising his hands in surrender. "Everything turned out fine. Better than expected by the way. She's really fun, didn't back down once." He commented, but Wanda just sighed impatiently at her brother's rudeness. "Remember that kid from college who ran out when I first approached him?"

"Yes, I remember Simon, he was my boyfriend. And no I haven't forgiven you for that." Wanda retorts between her teeth. "I told you to stop being nosy."

"And I politely ignored you."

With an irritated grumble, Wanda rolls her eyes and turns to her desk, deciding that she had better get back to work soon. As she sits down in her chair, Pietro sighs and comments:

"I'm not going to the Expo tomorrow." He counters.

"Why not?" Wanda asks without taking her eyes off the computer.

"You seem angry enough with me, and you know how I get bored at events like this. I was only going there so I could talk to Y/N, but now that this already happened, there's no reason to make that sacrifice." He explains, and Wanda sighs trying not to get into that subject again. Pietro straightens his blazer before adding, "Is it okay if I take the boys out? Flash forward a little of the most amazing summer with their favorite uncle?"

Wanda laughs lightly. "Sure, but please give them some real food. Hot dog and soda are delicious, but they need to eat properly."

"Yes, ma'am." Pietro retorted almost ironically making his sister smile. "Hey, are you ready for lunch?"

"I'm busy." Wanda replied. "And annoyed at you."

"You are hurting my feelings right now." Pietro joked receiving only a roll of the eyes from his sister who was already typing some things. "I am starving. But since I'm a very thoughtful brother, I'll go get our lunch. And you will stop for a few minutes to eat with me, Wanda."

"Mm-hmm."

"I'm serious." He returns standing up. "And tomorrow, wear the dress I bought. It's pretty, and I know you want to impress a certain someone at the party."

Wanda cleared her throat, her face slightly flushed. "Let me work, please." She asked quickly, and Pietro laughed, walking toward the exit.

–//–

Pietro was right about the dress. Although Wanda didn't really want to admit it, she was out to impress someone at the Expo, she herself ended up being impressed with the way the fabric hugged her curves and made her look really attractive.

It seemed to be the same opinion of all the other people around, the journalists and photographers of the event moved frantically to get some pictures of her as soon as she got out of the car and walked through the gate of Stark Industries - the headquarters of the Expo for almost five years - golden invitation in hand.

Wanda knew the vast majority of the investors and other leaders, but much of the party was made up of diverse employees from various companies around the United States and the world so she rotated her gaze in search of some familiarity around them and smiled when she found her team near a corner.

The redhead made her way leisurely to her colleagues - smiling and waving greetings to any known faces along the way - and was just about to catch up with a very elegant Natasha Romanoff chatting with her equally stunning wife Maria Hill when someone approached her.

Cat Grant was the founder of CatCo Worldwide Media and Wanda hadn't decided if she was exactly a big fan of her. She knew she hated the story that reduced her achievements to her tits, but after her not so polite letter to the company about this, it was very often that Miss Grant approved the content about the growth of Wanda's company. In the end, the redhead had the impression that Cat had no malicious intentions. She simply liked money, and as it happens, gossip sold very well.

"Wanda, how lovely it is to see you again." Greeted the woman as she stood in the redhead's way, and the younger woman forced a smile.

"Cat, hello."

"Tell me, dear, is today finally the day you're going to guarantee us an exclusive on your love life?"

Wanda gave a short, confused laugh at the direct and so sudden question. "My love life?"

"See, the Daily Bugle staff is going to be all over Strange and his mysterious new employee, but I've already seen a more exclusive story the moment you stepped out of your car." Cat counters with eyes glittering with mischief, and Wanda frowns completely lost in this whole story. "And I would like the exclusivity."

"Sorry, Cat, I'm not..." Wanda began but her gaze caught a certain figure in the crowd, carrying drinks for Nat and Maria. You looked stunning, the suit was tight and hugged your curves, it even had a tie and Wanda could already imagine herself pulling it to bring you close. And it was dark green, like her dress. Like her eyes. Oh.

"All right, Wanda, dear? Your face has suddenly turned red." Cat asked, and despite the brief concern in her tone of voice, she still had a mischievous expression, sure enough, she had followed Wanda's gaze around the room and was having a head full of ideas about what might be going on.

Clearing her throat, and doing her best to look not the least bit affected by the whole thing, Wanda forced another smile before answering, "I'm fine, I was just looking for my team. About the exclusive, I don't know what you're talking about."

Cat looked almost disappointed but recovered quickly.

"Come on, honey, don't be like that. Matching outfits at a public event?." She continued. "I was the first to notice, because I'm the best, but by the end of the event, you're going to have dozens of requests from these vultures about what this means. Wouldn't you like to talk about it with someone you trust, who won't twist the story of any matter?"

"What I would like is a drink, Cat. See you around." Wanda says as she picks up a glass from one of the waiters passing around. She waves the item to the journalist before walking away.

But Wanda couldn't join her team for long minutes. Since Cat Grant greeted her, dozens of people have had the same idea. She spoke with managers from Oscorp, Luthor Corp, and even the hosts, Howard and Maria Stark before finally getting to greet her colleagues.

Now the group was larger. Stephen Strange and three other people that Wanda didn't know were talking to you and the others. As soon as Strange noticed Wanda coming toward them, he let out a soft exclamation and waved encouragingly.

"Wanda!" He said greeting her with a kiss on the cheek, and moving to stand beside her. "Come meet my team." He guided, one hand landing on Wanda's back for a moment while the other he waved to the people around. "This is Phastos and Druig, part of the technology division. Sersie, our director." Wanda greeted everyone with a polite nod, and Strange continued talking. "Well, Thena and Makkari are attacking the delicious appetizers, and will soon join us. I was introducing everyone to your team, and well, you already know them, and now Y/N..."

Wanda definitely noticed the way you were hesitant to meet her gaze and the soft redness in your cheeks. Stephen, if noticed, didn't say anything. Not least because he was more busy saying what a funny coincidence it was the matching outfits of you and Wanda.

"Yes, a genuine coincidence." The redhead agreed without averting her intense gaze from you, making your stomach do a complete turn.

"It's amazing to have everyone here, soon Tony's displays will begin." Stephen commented checking his watch. "And later, we're going to make it official to the public that Y/N is joining our company."

With that, Wanda looked away from you, forcing a smile at Stephen. "The last performance of the evening, am I correct?"

"Yes, exactly." Strange agreed. He seemed very pleased with himself, almost as if he was bragging about having gotten you out of Maximoff's company. "I told everyone to go eat and drink since this is going to take a while."

Wanda nodded in understanding, and soon, the group was engaging in several conversations. She wouldn't admit that she was purposely avoiding talking to you, because that would be childish, but she certainly had no interest in the extensive engineering that Phastos was narrating about. During the entire interaction, Wanda couldn't help but keep stealing glances in your direction and having to bite her lips discreetly to avoid sighs as she found your equally intense gaze searching hers while you were talking to Druig or Natasha.

Soon the lights began to shine and the speakers announced that the Expo presentations were about to begin. Everyone was guided to their seats, and because you were from a different company now, you waved goodbye to everyone and joined Kamar Taj's table in the other corner of the room.

Tony Stark took the stage along with Lena Luthor and Bruce Wayne, as the giants of Technology, they were going to present the event. Stark had an automated flying car project, Luthor something about clean energy, and Wayne had urban social-ecological projects that Wanda was very aware of and interested in. But after a few long minutes, she saw her attention falling on you again.

A few tables ahead, commenting softly on the presentation with your new colleague Sersie, who, for Wanda's liking, was too close.

Wayne ended the presentation and told everyone to feel free to walk around to see the exhibit booths set up during the time the three of them were talking in the other part of the room - which the door was opened by staff as soon as he spoke - and left the small stage.

With that people began to get up and head for the other room to see what was new at the Expo, and Wanda made her way through the crowd.

She was looking at a smart city project when she felt a presence beside her.

"Are you avoiding me, Miss Maximoff?" Your voice made her body shiver, but Wanda didn't show it, without raising her eyes from the display, she continued pretending to be very interested in the small plaque with the project information as she commented:

"I am no longer your boss, so you don't have to call me Miss Maximoff anymore."

You bit back a smile, putting your hands in your pockets and looking in the same direction as the woman next to you.

"What should I call you then?" You asked.

"However you like."

Without missing a beat, you looked at her and questioned, "Can I call you my girlfriend?"

The display rack made a light clatter as Wanda tripped over her own feet with surprise and bumped into the item, and you giggled as you quickly moved one hand to the display - controlling the trembling caused by the impact - and the other to Wanda's waist to keep her from falling forward.

She tensed but then relaxed, and turned her head to you, nodding in appreciation for a second before putting a little distance between your bodies. You returned your hands to your pockets, watching her with curiosity.

"Did you mean it?" She asked after a moment, her eyes studying your face and frowning slightly.

Without answering, you turned your eyes to the model of the city in front of you, leaning a bit. "See that? I can imagine myself living in a place like this, Wanda. And when I do, I also imagine you at my side." You tell, and the woman swallows dryly, following your gaze to the little decorative houses. "I want it all, Wanda. You, and your boys, a house, and a dog just like those commercials. So, yes, of course, I meant it."

Wanda's eyes filled with tears, but she smiled, shaking her head slightly.

"Don't make me cry in public, dorogoya." She ordered with a tearful laugh that you shared. You moved closer to her and took your hands out of your pockets to help her wipe her face without smearing her makeup.

"You need to stop hanging up on people, sweetheart." You commented without stopping smiling, your hands resting on Wanda's cheeks as you wiped away the tears that managed to escape. "I had a speech on the tip of my tongue for you."

Wanda laughed again, shaking her head. "Is that why you bought the suit?"

You nodded, moving one of your hands to smooth Wanda's hair. "It's been a really fun week, darling. But it was time to stop playing games and say what we felt. And I am very much in love with you, Wanda."

The redhead looked like she was going to start crying again, so you smiled fondly before hugging her, enjoying the way she hid her face in your neck, breathing in your perfume for a long moment.

"Sorry, I ended up making a scene." You muttered, aware of the curious looks from some of the people closest to the interaction, trying to understand why Wanda was hugging you.

"I don't care about them." She retorted softly, pulling away to look at you. "I'm too happy for that."

You smiled tenderly, feeling your face warm. You stared at Wanda and then looked at her lips, and she mimicked the movement, making your heart skip two whole beats. You were leaning over when someone cleared their throat behind you.

"Sorry to interrupt, but it's time for your presentation." It was Druig, and he had a little smile much like the ones Natasha gave you as if he knew exactly what was going on before he arrived. You hesitated, but Wanda smiled.

"Go. I'll see you after it's over" She spoke and you nodded, moving closer to kiss her cheek, so close to her mouth that Wanda almost pulled you back, before walking off toward the stage.

If you thought Strange was bragging about having you, it was because you hadn't seen Thena talk about you to a room full of three thousand people.

As soon as Sersei made the introduction to "New Year at the Karmar Taj" Strange said he was going to present the newest addition to the group, you were on stage with Thena and Makkari. A dozen or so journalists in a row were released into the hall, and you felt a little out of place with so many cameras, but you kept smiling at the simple fact that Wanda was just a few meters ahead of you, looking at you with such tenderness that it filled your stomach with butterflies.

The thing is that Thena took the lead on the questions, and then, there was a hand behind your back, whispering in your ear about the press being too pushy and you had to be careful how much freedom you gave them. She was giving you advice, and you smiled in appreciation, and it was quite different from what Wanda understood.

When you met her gaze in the crowd again, it was like looking at CEO Wanda Maximoff after an investor meeting that didn't go well. Anger in her pupils and her jaw locked. You were worried right away, but you couldn't find any visible reason why she was suddenly upset.

The performance was over, and as soon as you came down from the stage, dozens of journalists were all over you, Thena, and Makkari. Her gaze met Wanda's - saying goodbye to Nat and Maria - before she stared intensely at you and turned toward the exit.

You struggled to dismiss the reporters and joined Nat next, completely confused.

"Hey, where Wanda...?" You started but the redhead gestured in the direction.

"Good luck." She wished and you only grew more concerned, saying goodbye to the two before heading towards the exit.

You found Wanda already outside, working on the car keys.

"Wanda, wait up!" You asked worriedly, quickening your pace to catch up to her before she got into the car. "What happened?"

"Nothing." She retorted between her teeth, not looking at you as she unlocked the car.

"Really?" You asked incredulously, and as soon as she tried to open the door, you shut it. "You're leaving without even talking to me?"

"You seemed busy enough." She retorted angrily.

"Is this about the Kamar Taj?" You asked confused, but Wanda rolled her eyes.

"Maybe." She said. "Or maybe it's about you being quite comfortable with your new boss."

Wanda tries to open the door again, but you hold it closed. "Are you jealous of Thena?"

With an impatient sigh, she stops struggling to open the vehicle and throws the keys into your hands. "Take me home."

She goes around the car and you let out a frustrated sigh, but open the door and get into the vehicle. The atmosphere is tense between you on the way, and Wanda is so quiet that you are truly incredulous at the whole story.

"You know that doesn't make sense, don't you?" You try after some time driving. Wanda makes no mention of answering, leaning toward the passenger door. It is already late afternoon, and she pretends to be paying attention to the sunset. You are really nervous about all this, and you start to babble. "I literally said I'm in love with you today. Do you really think you have any reason to be jealous of Thena, or anyone else for that matter? I've always been crazy about you, even when I was with Carol. And it took me a while to confess and even to realize, I get it, but what I don't understand is why you would be jealous because I'm..."

"Stop talking, baby." Wanda asked softly as she looked at you again, and leaning toward you, she kissed your cheek, and then your neck, her lips leaving a warm trail on your skin. Your breath hitched, and you squeezed the steering wheel hard. Wanda just smiled, one hand landing on your thigh, caressing the fabric in an up and down motion until you began to shiver at her touch. "I believe you."

"So you're not mad anymore?" You asked and received a wicked chuckle in return, Wanda's hand moving dangerously up your inner thigh but never where you wanted it.

"About that, no. Because it wasn't your fault." She says moving her mouth to your ear. She bites and plays with the lobe, drawing soft sighs from you. "But there are other things you need to be punished for."

"Fuck, Wanda, I'm driving." You retorted in an affected sigh, finding it hard to resist the urge to kiss the woman next to you.

"Tsk, those manners, detka." She comments pulling away from you, and you think you can breathe normally without Wanda so close.

"Well, excuse me, if I don't want to crash the car." You return causing her to laugh softly, and raise her hands in a sign of surrender before settling back against the car seat.

"Just so you know, every second I don't touch you, will be the time you won't be able to touch me." She declares causing you to widen your eyes.

"What...?"

But Wanda just looked at you innocently, a soft smile on her lips. "Eyes on the road, baby. Aren't you the one who said you didn't want to crash the car?"

With a sigh, you looked back at the track, cursing softly at the way Wanda was playing with your head. When you made mention of speeding up the car, she giggled. "No cheating."

"You are so mean." You complained in a sigh, and she bit back a smile.

"Detka, you have no idea" She assured, looking at you intensely, and you swallowed dryly when you noticed her hands moving into her dress.

"What are you doing?" You asked in a sigh, but Wanda didn't answer, pulling up a bit of the dress. You watched her out of the corner of your eye remove her panties and drop them on the floor of the car. Her hands went back up, now over the fabric, to the front of the dress, to her breasts.

"I love it when you play with them, dekta." Wanda confesses, fingers tentative around her covered breasts, but her breathing is already out of rhythm. "It's really a shame you didn't behave."

"Wanda, please." You ask, not even sure of what, you just know that your hands are shaking and the heat in your pants is making it very difficult to concentrate on driving.

"This suit, baby. You look so hot in it. You got me all wet." She whispers and chokes softly when her fingers find her own intimacy beneath her dress, a satisfied sigh escaping her lips next. Your whole body is on fire, and you grip the steering wheel tightly.

"Can I touch you? Please?" You ask but Wanda shakes her head in the negative, closing her eyes as she teases herself so intimately, you can only see the slight movement of the fabric and hear the rubbing of her fingers from the wetness.

"You can only drive. Isn't that what you wanted?" She merely teases, biting her lips as she finds the right rhythm and you let out a frustrated grunt, trying not to lose control of the car.

"How much longer?"

Wanda gave an affected little laugh, opening her eyes. "For me or for us to arrive?"

You locked your jaw, refusing to look at her because you figured it would help you not be so affected. "What do you think?"

But Wanda didn't answer, and you thought she was playing with you. You made the mistake of looking at her again, and almost drove off the road when you found her figure with one hand squeezing her left breast, her eyes closed tightly and her back slightly arched as the other hand moved frantically against her wet intimacy.

The soft moans escaping from Wanda were enough for you. With a smooth turn, you stopped the car on the roadside, and the loss of movement made Wanda open her eyes with confusion, but she was surprised by your mouth against hers, a deep, hungry kiss that made the question of what had happened fade from her mind.

She gasped against your lips, responding to the kiss with equal intensity. Her hand freed itself from her breast to tangle in your hair, pulling you to her. And by God, how Wanda had missed your lips. Her whole body vibrated, every cell screaming your name.

Your hand found hers under her dress and slowing the kiss, you gasped when Wanda bit your lower lip and gave a gentle tug before teasing: "I said you couldn't touch." She reminded you, but her voice was so husky and affected that you'd think she'd be angrier if you decided to move away now.

Deciding it was worth the risk, you just pushed her fingers away to replace it with yours.

Gasping at feeling her so hot and wet, you sank your fingers between her folds. Wanda kissed you again, now both hands on your shoulders as your fingers worked inside her, slowly stroking in the same rhythm as your tongues.

When Wanda began to twitch, and her walls tightened around you, you moved your thumb to her neglected clit, applying just the right pressure to make her break the kiss, eyes rolling to the back of her head as a strangled moan escaped her mouth.

"You feel so good, Wanda." You whispered against her jaw, trailing your kisses down her skin as you felt her squeeze your fingers. The redhead just sighed in satisfaction, and with a few more deep strokes, she arched her back and came with a whimper against your shoulder, spasming on the seat.

Gently, you stroked her swollen clit, overstimulating her, and met her dark eyes again.

"I'm sorry for disobeying." You asked softly, your free hand gently caressing Wanda's sweaty hair away from her face. "I can't help it when you are so irresistible."

She smiled, using one hand to tug at your tie and make you lean toward her. "Keep giving me those and I will forgive you every time, my dear." She commented, her lips brushing against yours and the feeling of your fingers deep inside her was still making you dizzy with arousal.

"It's a deal." You murmured before closing the distance between your mouths again.

–//–

Almost half an hour later, you and Wanda finally arrived at her apartment. Stumbling between passionate kisses and tugging at each other's clothes, you blushed very brightly when the building's doorman - who was dropping off some equipment in the garage - wished you both goodnight with a teasing expression.

Wanda pulled back, smoothing her crumpled, raised dress, and you used your body to cup her body as well.

"Good evening, Mr. Heimdall." Wanda greeted almost embarrassed, trying to look more presentable by fixing her hair. "We're just..."

"I know very well, Wanda. I'll call your apartment when your brother brings the kids over early tomorrow morning." Interrupted the man with a smile, and Wanda chuckled in appreciation.

"Thank you." She spoke and then entwined your fingers together and pulled you gently toward the entrance.

In the elevator, you raised an eyebrow at her about the interaction. Wanda just shrugged, muttering something about Heimdall knowing everyone in the building before she kissed you again, and you had no interest other than her lips at that moment.

When you finally entered the apartment, between kisses and panting, Wanda closed the door behind her and pushed you toward the bedroom, half your clothes falling off on the way.

You fell to sitting on the mattress, wearing only your pants and shoes. Your eyes darkened as you met an equally out of breath Wanda Maximoff in a loose, crumpled dress, raised to thigh height.

"Take it off." You ordered with a gentle tug on the end, but Wanda gave a devilish giggle, pushing your hand away.

"It's lovely when you think you're the boss." She teases, and you sigh as she pushes you by the shoulders onto the mattress, riding on your lap the next moment.

Wanda is all over you suddenly, her mouth devouring yours with intensity as she finds a smooth rhythm against your hips that makes you choke against her tongue. Your hands steady themselves on her thighs, but Wanda moves hers to entwine your fingers together until she guides your arms back to the bed, holding your hands against the mattress.

The delicious friction of your hips together makes you see stars as Wanda increases speed, but your hands itch to touch her. As you begin to struggle against the grip, Wanda breaks the kiss and stops the movements, getting a sigh from you.

"I think I need to cuff you." She commented against your lips, her dark eyes, and tousled hair. She looked absolutely stunning. You could only groan in return, nodding in agreement. Wanda smiled, releasing your hands only to guide them back to your hair, guiding the rhythm of the deep kiss she gave you before she pulled away all at once, getting up and heading towards the closet.

You let out a deep sigh, feeling all the places where Wanda touched vibrating. She was back in no time, cotton cuffs in hand that made you shudder with excitement.

"Take off your clothes." She ordered and waited for you to obey -which you did in record time - before adding, "Lie on the bed."

Nodding quickly, you moved to lie down on the mattress, now completely exposed to Wanda, who for her part was biting her lips as she watched you. Unhurriedly, she moved closer to handcuff you to the headboard, your hands clasped firmly by the cuffs.

"Do they hurt?" She asked sweetly once the items were locked in place. Her gaze was on yours again as she caressed the skin of your wrists.

"N-no." You replied hoarsely, blushing over Wanda's touch and gaze. "Please, keep going."

Your request made Wanda smile. She rose from the bed, and without breaking eye contact, moved her hands to the beams of the dress and with one simple movement, the garment loosened on her body and slipped to the floor.

The sight made a hot wet wave hit your lower abdomen and your mouth water for her. This time, the cuffs held back your instinctive reaction to move your hands toward her, and you grunted softly as Wanda smiled.

"Oh, dorogoya, what am I going to do with you?" Wanda asked more to herself than to you, moving around the room.

"Anything, Wanda!" You retorted in aroused frustration. "Just touch me at once."

"You forgot the magic word, baby." She commented, a wicked smile on her lips that made you shudder.

"Please."

Wanda hums in approval, moving to sit on your hip. You gasped when you felt the way she was warm and wet against your stomach.

Wanda watched you struggle against the cuffs, biting her lips as she did so. "What is it, baby?" she asked innocently, moving her hips down a little, dangerously close to where you were throbbing. The trail of her wetness on your stomach made your muscles contract, and a strangled moan escaped you.

"I really want to touch you." You replied affected, being able to hear your heartbeat in your ears.

"You should have thought of that when you disobeyed me so many times, don't you think, baby?" she asked, tracing her fingers down the valley of your breasts, scratching her way gently down. You gasped, your body quivering with pleasure and arousal beneath her. "And that way you touched me in the office? So inappropriate only to leave me frustrated for the rest of the day."

"I'm sorry." You asked but were paying more attention to the way Wanda's fingers kept descending. She smiled as she noticed your gaze, and brought her hands to her own thighs.

"Don't worry, baby. You can play, as long as you know the consequences." She guided, and this time, moved her hips against yours until your intimacies were connected. The contact drew a deep groan from both of you. "And for now, you owe me some."

Nodding frantically, you let out a contented groan as Wanda begins to move against you. She moves slowly, pressing your cunts together as she rides you, your juices mixing together. Her hands steady themselves at the level of your stomach, pressing her nails against your skin as she guides her movements against you.

The hot tightness in your stomach was growing and threatening to explode with each precise movement of her pussy against your clit, and you could no longer control the sounds as well as Wanda, who was having trouble keeping her eyes open as her climax neared.

"Wanda, look at me." You urged in a hoarse, affected gasp, now moving your hips in the same rhythm as hers. "I want to see you come."

She opened her eyes and you could no longer see the greens in it, the irises fully dilated as she kept thrusting forward. Wanda came in the same second you did, her eyes rolling to the back of her head and her back arched as she spilled against you, her liquids running down your pussy and thigh. Her mouth returned to yours the next minute, a panting, messy kiss, as you tried to recover from your climax together.

You struggled against the cuffs again, your urge to hold her made you forget the items for a moment, and the sound made Wanda smile against your lips.

"Patience, baby." She asked biting your lower lip and giving a tug to pull away a little just to look at you. "We have all night for you to touch me."

You only responded with a frustrated groan as she pulled away again, legs slightly trembling from climax as she moved away to the head of the bed. You frowned in curiosity, only widening your eyes softly when you saw Wanda pull out of the drawer the rings you returned to her.

"How was it again that you said that day, dear?" She asked as she approached you once more, now sitting beside you as she placed the rings on her fingers. "How many fingers do you think I should use?"

She asked, her hand sliding down your body, the icy coldness of the metal in contrast to your warm skin made you shudder. "I'll bet you'll be tight with three, too."

Moaning softly, you merely looked down where Wanda found her way to your needy cunt. You were still vibrating from the last orgasm, but Wanda didn't care about that. She slid two fingers in with ease, and covered the loud moan you let escape with her own mouth.

The cuffs made a noise and the headboard shuddered as you began to struggle against the grip, Wanda's agile fingers finding your sweet spot with ease, and the slowness and depth of her thrusts making you spasm on the bed.

"God, you're so sexy." She praised watching you twitch and moan on her bed, feeling your soaking wet pussy pulling her in every time she withdrew her fingers. "Cum for me, baby. You can make a mess."

With a loud exclamation, you felt the tightness in your abdomen explode and your whole body vibrate as your climax came. Wanda watched you adoringly, the movements stopping smoothly as you spilled over onto her fingers.

She moved closer to your face, kissing your cheek and jaw before bringing her mouth to your ear. "Give me one more, baby. And I'll uncuff you."

Her fingers moved out, and then, she added the third as she slid in again. A throaty moan escaped you, sensitive from the last climax and the feeling of being so full. "Wanda, fuck." You choked, but she just giggled, her thumb finding your clint to stimulate it with circles and making you whimper.

"So tight, baby. You were right." She whispered huskily, her free hand in your hair. "Can I move?"

"Yes, please." You practically begged, and Wanda kissed your cheek before she began to move. At first, she went slowly, but soon, she was frantically thrusting against you, her out-of-pace breathing and soft praise against your ear in conjunction with her movements had you coming in record time, arching your back into the mattress.

"Holy fuck, that was..."

"Fuckin' incredible.." Wanda completed with a smile, causing you to let out a hoarse, affected laugh. She removed her fingers, bringing them to her own lips, and the image of watching her taste you with such satisfaction almost made you ready to start all over again.

Seeing the look on your face, Wanda giggled, moving to release you from the cuffs with ease, a soft exclamation of surprise when you wasted no time in grabbing her by the waist and pulling her on top of you.

Wanda smiled against your lips, returning the kiss with equal intensity. You kissed her slowly, your hands firmly on her hips while hers were entwined behind your head.

You stayed just like that for a few minutes. Kissing. It seemed almost as intimate as what you were doing before. And then Wanda pulled away, her forehead against yours and her breathing out of rhythm, smiling as she moved her hands to your arms.

"I love you." She confessed then, in a hoarse, heartfelt sigh. You swallowed dryly, opening your eyes to look at her, and waited for her to do the same. When her emerald irises met yours, you smiled.

"I love you too, Wanda." You retorted, your fingers caressing her skin. She smiled, so true and content that it made your chest ache with emotion. And then she kissed you again, softer than before, like a confirmation. You wasted no time in kissing her back, and also choked when she pressed your bodies together again, feeling her move instinctively against you.

It didn't look like you were going to leave that room anytime soon, but honestly, you weren't complaining.

–//–

When Wanda awoke, the apartment had a delicious smell of eggs and bacon.

She groped around on the mattress but found the bed empty. Opening her eyes in a mixture of sleep and confusion, she brushed her tousled hair out of the front of her face and looked around. You weren't in the room. All she found was a note on the headboard with the message "get dressed."

Grabbing the first set of clean, comfortable clothes she found in the closet, she made her way out of the room, frowning at the sounds of voices that were coming from the kitchen.

When Wanda reached the commode, she was taken aback by the image of her children - sitting at the kitchen table next to their uncle - and you, who was cooking and was responsible for the wonderful scent around the apartment.

"Look who decided to join us." Remarked Pietro relaxedly when Wanda walked in. The redhead was too shocked by the domesticity of the scene to say anything.

"Mom, your girlfriend is so cool!" Billy commented next. He raised his plate to chest height, fancy pancakes were there. "She knows how to make food with smiley faces."

You laughed embarrassedly, busying yourself with not burning your eggs while justifying only that your niece loved pancakes with cartoon faces.

"I..." Wanda began still dumbfounded, and Pietro laughed at her face, rising from the table with a cup of coffee in hand.

"Sestra, here to help clear your thoughts." He teases as he hands the item to Wanda, who rolls her eyes at him slightly.

She approaches the table, and after kissing the top of each of her children's heads, Wanda approaches you.

"Good morning." She whispers against your ear, kissing your cheek as she watches you finish your food.

"Good morning, Wanda."

"Did you sleep well?"

You smile, turning your face to her. "Like a baby."

"That's because you are one. My baby." She jokes, making you let out an embarrassed giggle. She kisses your red cheek before pulling away a little when you have to turn off the stove and serve the eggs and bacon on the boys' plate.

"We just invited Y/N to the night fair tonight, sestra." Pietro announces the next moment, and Wanda takes her eyes from you to her brother.

"Oh, that's nice." Says the redhead with a tender smile, impacted by the image of you making Billy and Tommy giggle with the faces on their pancakes.

"Mommy, can we go on the roller coaster?" Tommy asked next, and Wanda gave a nodding giggle.

"I want to go on the horror house." Billy retorted and Pietro let out an excited exclamation, giving a high five with his nephew.

"What about you and Y/N, Mom? Which ride-on toy do you guys want to go to?" Tommy asked.

Pietro didn't miss the opportunity to mock, "The kissing booth."

You laughed with flushed cheeks as the twins made disgusted faces, and Wanda moved to try to hit her brother, who wasted no time in running away from the other woman.

Amid laughter and teasing, you had your first breakfast with the Maximoffs. It wasn't your last meal with them, and you and Wanda definitely went to the kissing booth more than once.

In time, she would stop calling you her girlfriend, and start calling you something much better.

"Miss Maximoff, any comments on the recent Kamar Taj board promotion for your former employee, miss L/N?" Asked one of the pushy reporters standing at the entrance of the event to which Wanda was heading. She gave a little smile away from the camera flashes, but didn't take off her sunglasses.

"Mr. Kent, tell the Daily Bugle that if they want any statement from me about this, the first step is to start using her correct name." Wanda retorted without stopping walking, the reporters following her as far as the railing would allow. "My wife goes by Mrs. Maximoff as well."

The flashes became more frequent. "We thought the wedding was just a rumor!" Justified the man in shock at the first-hand story.

"A closed ceremony only. I assure you I am a married woman." Wanda merely replied, a short smile on her lips. The reporters frantically begged her to give more information but she just dashed into the event.

There was a crowd of people waiting for her to present the Maximoff Company's new project in conjunction with Eternals Inc. A large model of a city was set up on the stage.

Wanda twirled her wedding ring on her fingers, mentally reciting some of the rehearsed speech before approaching the stage.

The banner reading "Westview - Home is where you make it" at the top made Wanda smile.

[sinner-as-saint]

when no one is around.

Butler!Steve x Reader AU

Run-through: You have had a shameless crush on your butler, Steve, ever since your parents hired him. And you’re even more shameless when it comes to showing it. Poor Steve always has to put up with you no matter what. He didn’t have much of a choice; mainly because he was in charge of your household, consequently, in charge of you but also because he likes you, even though he shouldn’t. Yet he always resists you and your charms, for multiple reasons. However, the man finally breaks and gives in to you, following some unholy circumstances… 

Themes: age gap, smut, masturbation, slight voyeurism, slight daddy kink, bratty!reader, dom!Steve, daddy!steve, fluff, Butler!Steve, angst

You woke up to the sound of Steve’s voice, like you did every morning. 

“Miss, it’s past eight thirty. If you don’t wake up now, you’re going to be very late for work and your father will not be thrilled.” 

You groaned and tried to hide under your blanket knowing that that would buy you at least another minute or two. And it did. A couple of minutes later you heard Steve sigh. 

“Miss, will you please just wake up?” 

You peaked from under your blanket and stared at the eye candy standing right beside your bed in a white shirt, black tux with a bow tie and white gloves. You couldn’t understand how he was a butler when he belonged on the front cover of a magazine. Tall, handsome and older. Just your type. 

“Can’t you be a little more loving, Steve? I don’t know, wake me up with a kiss or flowers or something romantic like that.” You teased, sitting up in the middle of your bed and stretching your arms and ignoring the way your thighs clenched together at the sight of him.  

He stood there watching you, trying his hardest not to stare while fighting back a smirk. “That would be highly inappropriate, Miss.” 

You sighed, reluctantly getting out of bed and stood right in front of him. “What’s highly inappropriate is you having the nerve to look like that all the time.” You took the liberty of leaning in and pressing yourself against him. He raised an eyebrow at you. “Do you have any idea what it does to me? Do you know how bad I wanna just-” 

He gently pushed you away. “No.” He shut you up softly. “Now be quick, you have little time. Breakfast and your car will be waiting downstairs in thirty minutes.” 

You rolled your eyes at him and rushed into your bathroom. As you got ready, you thought of the past almost six years. Steve has played a huge part in your life. 

You still remembered the day your parents announced that they had hired a butler who would handle the household better since they were always away. It was important to have someone to look after you too, given you were the only one who lived in the big, empty house most of the time. 

And in walked Steve, straight into your home and your heart. Upon hearing the name ‘Steve Rogers’ you had expected an older gentleman, much older. But then upon seeing Steve for the first time, you were swooned. Totally whipped at the sight of the muscular, suave and drop dead gorgeous man. Brownish blond hair, blue eyes, dashing. He carried himself with elegance. Just his gait was enough to make your heart go all crazy. 

You remember thinking to yourself, how the hell would you be able to stay sane with a man that gorgeous around you all the time? Obviously you knew you had a crush on him since the very start. But as the days went by, that meaningless crush morphed into something a little more solid without you even knowing. 

You liked Steve, more than you intended to perhaps. Unfortunately, for him you were just his masters’ daughter. He dodged every attempt you made at flirting with him. He always let you down gently though; always with a smile or a smirk or a soft look in his eyes. 

And the more he pushed you away, the bolder you got. And you began hearing these phrases more frequently;

“Miss, this is highly inappropriate.” - Whenever you shamelessly flirted with him. 

“Miss, I am too old for you.” - Which wasn’t that big of an issue for you personally. He wasn’t old, old. He was in his early forties and you were in your twenties. You knew people with age gaps bigger than that who were happy together. 

“Miss, for the love of God, behave.” - your personal favorite. 

You never crossed the line though. You sure did tease him a lot, day and night. But he always kept his calm and composure, never breaking. Although there were times when he almost did. 

Like the time you were getting ready for a party and you needed some help with your dress. You called out for him and he appeared in your bedroom instantly. He couldn’t help but let his eyes roam your half exposed body. 

“Can you zip me up?” You stood in front of your mirror, your back exposed, waiting. That was the first time he seemed really nervous around you. He walked up to you and zipped up your dress, slowly, taking his time. His soft, white gloves lazily grazed your skin while he pulled the zipper up, leaving goosebumps behind on your skin. He stood behind you for a moment or two, just staring at your reflection with his lips parted after he was done. “How do I look?” you asked, mischief in your eyes. 

He swallowed audibly. “Beautiful.” 

Then there was the time when you felt really bold and wore a see-through white, oversized t-shirt over some bright red underwear while parading around the house casually going about your day. Steve saw you and almost dropped the tray he was carrying. 

“Oh hi Steve.” You smirked when you caught his gawking for a moment or two. 

He recovered and peeled his eyes off you, looking down at his shoes before looking back up at you with a defeated look in his eyes. “Where are the rest of your clothes might I ask?” 

“In the laundry bin.” 

He sighed. “I had fresh laundry sent to your room just this morning.” 

“They’re all dirty.” 

“All of them?” he sounded frustrated. Not necessarily because of the topic of discussion but because of your rather scandalous appearance; sprawled on the couch carelessly while dressed like that. You knew just how to make a man lose his mind. 

“Yes.” 

“How?” 

You pretended to think for a moment. “I soiled them while painting this morning.” 

“You don’t paint.” He knew you were lying, being a brat as usual. 

“I started this morning.” 

He sighed, allowing his shameless eyes to take you in one last time before he walked away shaking his head mumbling under his breath about how you were incorrigible. You made it hard for him to go about his day in peace with your little antics, in more ways than one. 

Then there was the very famous: “What would you like for breakfast today?” he’d ask almost every morning. 

To which you replied, “You.” on a daily basis and it earned the same reaction out of him each time. He’d roll his eyes at you, resisting the urge to have indecent thoughts as best as he could. 

Steve was torn between wanting to be strictly professional and wanting to give in to your relentless attempts of seduction. He would be lying if he said he wasn’t into you, or had never had an immoral thought when it came to you. 

He thought of you all the time, mainly because his job required him to but also out of genuine concern for your well-being. You were a kind, smart, courageous and beautiful young woman - or rather you could be all this when you weren’t being a brat. Steve had seen the kind of dedication you put towards your work; while handling a huge chunk of the family business. He always admired you for how well you managed the burden your parents placed on your young shoulders. 

He sometimes caught you letting out tears of frustration when the stress got too much. Or when you missed your parents because they barely ever came home. You basically lived alone here, in this big, empty house your parents owned. Steve often wondered what would happen to you if he wasn’t here to take care of you. He liked you, a lot. But there were factors which didn’t let him reciprocate what you felt for him. 

First being his job, then his age, then the fear of your parents finding out and what they would do to him if they did. Besides, he thought, you were young. Young people feel things for people left and right without ever truly meaning it, correct? 

Though that never stopped him from feeling the tension that exists between the two of you. Fiery, hot, burning; it was always there. Even when there were other people around, or when your eyes met for a brief moment. Even on days when you weren’t being a little brat, when you weren’t seeking his attention all the time, even then he couldn’t ignore it. It was there, present loudly. 

This flirty, tension filled bond between the two of you remained constant for years. But it wasn’t always just inappropriate and sexual. Steve had been a friend, a confidant, a good listener to you more times than you could count. 

With your parents always gone, and you having to bear some of the burden of your parents’ companies, it left you with little to no time with friends and family at all. Some you unfortunately drifted away from due to work, others just stopped reaching out or simply refused to understand your busy lifestyle. 

But the one person who was always there for you, always fiercely loyal and constant; no matter how much of a brat you were, no matter how much you annoyed him all the time, no matter how dirty your jokes were, was Steve. Naturally, you unknowingly fell for him at some point - despite knowing that this would go nowhere.

Or would it? 

-

Your daily routines barely changed. It always started and ended the same way. Steve would wake you up, you would annoy him a little, get dressed and ready for work, get to work, go to lunch with your assistant almost every day, get back home, annoy Steve a little more until he leaves. Only for him to come back the next day and repeat. 

The days you hated the most were Steve’s off days. Fridays. 

With him not around, your days weren’t as animated and fun. No one to tease, no one to be a brat to, no one to annoy. Your other staff members were great, but none quite like Steve. 

So Friday, you turned in early for the night. Your housemaids and everyone else had already left so it was just you in an empty house. You tried reading, then got bored. TV wasn’t really helping either. 

You tossed and turned in bed until you realized what was wrong; you were feeling frisky. You groaned, if only you had someone to take care of those needs of yours. More precisely someone with bronde hair, blue eyes, and a taut, muscular body which was always found under a crisp black tux, white shirt, black bow tie and white gloves… and a voice which made you feel things you hadn’t felt before. 

As you thought of your sexy butler, your hand found its way in between your legs. Your other hand toyed with your breasts; fingers pinched your erected nipples as your back arched off the bed slightly. You sighed in pleasure. 

Your flushed, naked body writhed on the silky, cool satin sheets as your fingers toyed with your wet folds. You moaned as your two fingers slipped inside your entrance with ease given that you were dripping already. 

You moaned at the thought of a certain pair of blue eyes, and soft lips as your back arched off the bed again, the cold air mercilessly hit your bare chest and caused your nipples to erect even further. Your fingers effortlessly slipped in and out of you; your fingers ever so gently stroking your walls making every nerve of yours tingle. The palm of your hand rubbed against your sensitive clit over and over again as your moans got louder and louder. 

What you didn’t know, was that hidden in the shadows just outside your partially open bedroom door, stood Steve. Lips parted, short breaths, heart racing, his blood rushing downwards as he watched you. He was too aware of everything; his body and yours, his immoral thoughts and your own, how your lust and hunger ignited him. Aware of your soft moans, and the fire in his loins. 

He felt guilty, and very ashamed of himself as he took in your bare body. But he couldn’t stop looking. He was entranced; hungry just to have a taste. He begged his body to move away from your doorway, but he didn’t budge. It wasn’t like he was purposely peeping or being a creep. 

It was his day off, and yet he dropped by for a casual check, like he had the habit of doing even on days when he wasn’t working because he still had to make sure you were alright. But normally when he dropped by, your bedroom door was always shut so he knew that you were fast asleep. 

But today, he found soft, golden light coming through your bedroom. He had to make sure you’re okay but then he saw that the door was almost halfway open, and he investigated further and saw something he wasn’t supposed to. You. Naked on your bed. Touching yourself. And now, he couldn’t look away. 

His cock was throbbing at this point and it was difficult to ignore it. He shamelessly drank in the sight of your naked body against the silky sheets. The way your back arched off the bed, the way you bit your lip to hold back your sinful moans, the way he could just tell that your shorts breaths would feel so warm against his skin… fuck, he had goosebumps and a shiver danced down his spine. 

He begged himself to slowly walk away, and he almost did. But then he heard you moan his name. And he lost his mind. 

“Steve… daddy, please…” you mewled, whimpering under your breath as you took yourself higher and higher. 

Steve froze in place, he had never known his name could sound so gentle and vulgar at the same time. He was almost panting as he let his sinful eyes roam your naked body, and he wasn’t even being stimulated in any way, just the sight of you and the sound of your voice was bringing him on the edge. 

He was a mess. 

He could just walk into that room and give you all that you’ve been practically begging him for all this time, but that would mean risking all that he has now. Or he could simply leave, and pretend this never happened. Self-abuse under a cold shower once he gets back to his apartment would work best. However, he’d have to come back here tomorrow, now with the recollection of what he was currently seeing. 

How will he be able to resist you from now on when he could barely take his eyes off you now?

That’s enough, Steve. He managed to slowly back away from your doorway and into the corridor which would lead him to the staircase. As he walked away, he heard your slightly louder moans as you came. Fuck. He stood at the landing, in the dark and groaned internally. Oh how pretty you must have looked, coming undone all over your pretty fingers. It drove him crazy just knowing that he’s the one you think of when you touch yourself. 

As discreetly as he could, Steve walked out of your home, rushed into his car and drove past the gates as fast as he could. Needless to say, he had quite some trouble falling asleep that night. 

---

You noticed some changes in Steve’s behaviour the next day when he showed up. He was avoiding you, you noticed that the minute you saw him. He wouldn’t look you in the eyes. He would barely be able to hold a conversation for too long. He seemed… shy and timid, definitely not his usual confident self around you. 

You tried to start up a conversation but his replies were just dry. You thought that perhaps he was having a bed day, or he woke up feeling grumpy. So you let him be. You didn’t annoy him all day. But at the same time, having him around but not having his attention was driving you crazy. You hated it. 

“Steve, what’s wrong?” you asked him at some point during the day. You were in the kitchen at the time and he walked in. 

He wasn’t expecting to find you there so he seemed visibly nervous. “I… uh, nothing. Everything is fine.” He cleared his throat and straightened his back a little more. “Did you need anything, Miss?” 

You could tell he was avoiding the topic, whatever it was. “No,” you answered, “nothing.” You walked out of the kitchen feeling a little troubled by his behaviour. You frowned as you walked upstairs into your study room. Since you were feeling gloomy, you decided to do some boring work until you figured out what to do with yourself. 

Checking the security camera footage was something your father insisted on. You had people for that, but your dad said that it was important you did it yourself just to make sure everything around the house is in order. So you sat back in your seat, rewinding all the footage of the week and sped through it, bored out of your mind. 

Surely you wouldn’t find anything because your staff members were all- 

You almost fell out of your chair when you saw the footage of last night. 5th indoor camera which surveilled the spacious corridor which led to your bedroom. You checked the time on the frame, it was around 11 p.m and you saw Steve walking up to your partly open bedroom door. 11 p.m ish, around that time pretty sure you were… oh… 

You were very well aware that Steve has the habit of coming by to check up on everything even on his days off, you just never knew at what time he came by. Apparently last night he came at the wrong time. Or not...? 

You watched the footage of him standing there frozen in place. He took a step back from your door, then inched forward again. Then backed away, then leaned forward again, and you could tell he must have debated turning back around and leaving multiple times but he didn’t. Oh?  

Your lips lifted up in a smirk as you pieced it all together. So this is why he’s been acting weird all day? Your devious mind came up with a plan. 

-

Steve left that evening, after ignoring you for the entire day and you decided to be a little bit more of a pain in his lovely ass. So you waited for an hour after he left, and then drove all the way to his apartment. Nothing but mischief on your mind. 

When you showed up at his doorstep, he was surprised but still maintained his calm and composure. You shamelessly checked him out; he looked like a god even in his sweatpants and white sweater. His damp, messy hair gave away that he must have just stepped out of the shower. Hot. 

“Hello Steve.” Your smirk gave away that you were up to no good and he caught on pretty quickly. He gave you a faint smile. 

“How come you’re h-,” You cut him off by opening his front door wider and taking the liberty of stepping into his home like an insolent little brat. He sighed as he shut the door behind him and followed you in. “Do you know that it’s considered quite rude to just barge into someone’s home?”

You stopped right before entering his living room. You turned around to face him with a sly smirk. “And do you know that it’s considered rude to come into someone’s home at night and openly spy on them while they’re naked and touching themselves? Hmm?” You had no shame. Also nothing to hide given he had seen it all. 

The look on Steve’s face was priceless. He was less bothered about how you figured and more worried about what would follow now. His job could be at risk yes, but what must you be thinking? He couldn’t figure you out. 

“That’s not what… I was-,” He looked frustrated and nervous, but also guilty. “I wasn’t spying, I didn’t…” He sighed, trying not to stutter. “Listen, that’s not what-”

You cut him off again by walking up to him. “It’s alright. I don’t mind.” You said with a flirty smile. “In fact, it would’ve been better if you just walked into the room.” You heard him gasp as you leaned in closer to him, whispering in his ear, “Because I was thinking about you while I was pleasuring myself,” you giggled, “but I think you know that already.” You pulled away to look at him. He was flushed. Troubled. Dare you say, aroused. 

The memories of last night filled his mind. He remained silent, still processing your words and wondering how he should handle this situation. You spoke again, “If I had known you were there watching me, I would’ve put up a better show.” His handsome face was void of any emotion. He was confused, but also burning. 

He was feeling too much at the same time, he didn’t know how to act. Not to mention that your words sent chills all over his body. He was barely able to maintain his calm demeanor any longer. 

Silence. 

You spoke up again. “If you want, I can do it right now.” You noticed how his hands flexed at his sides. He was struggling. You smirked. “What, you shamelessly watch me get off and now you’re acting all calm and collected?” You reached out and gently trailed a finger down his forearm. You watched him shiver for a moment. “Come on Steve,” your hand moved right to the bulge in his sweatpants, “admit it, you want me.” You teased him by gently feeling his erection. It excited you just as much as it did him. 

He finally spoke up. “Y/N… we shouldn’t.” Fuck but he wanted to. He was dying to just reach out and touch you. He kept thinking about how you looked last night; bare, lying in your bed and touching yourself so gently. Your moans… they had tormented him all night even after he got home. His accelerated heartbeats echoed in his ears as he stood unmoving under your wild stare. He swallowed audibly, knowing he wouldn’t be able to resist you for long. His primal, feral desires surfaced more and more as you spoke and he was hungry. Like a wild animal in heat. 

You rolled your eyes at him. “Oh?” You walked around him, circling like he was a prey. When you stood right behind him, you stood on your tiptoes and leaned in to whisper again, lips brushing against the shell of his ear. “But what you did was highly inappropriate Mr. Rogers. Can you imagine what that would do to your reputation, should people find out?” You kissed down along his neck, from his ear to the side of his lower jaw where you could feel his pulse. You scoffed, “Your heart is racing, Steve. Give in. I’ll let you do whatever you want with me.” You whispered softly. 

He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath while trying to ignore the pressure in between his legs. His cock was throbbing. His hands were almost shaking as he held back from touching you. He could so easily just pin you to the wall and have his way. He so desperately wanted to. But… he shouldn’t. You were his bosses’ daughter. 

Despite knowing it was futile because you had the reputation of getting whatever you wanted, be it in your personal or professional life, he still tried to act responsibly rather than just giving in to his burning desire and instincts. 

“I’m not one of your business deals, Y/N. You can come in here and talk terms with me in my own home.” He sounded frustrated and… hot. 

You walked back around and stood right in front of him. Judging by the look in your eyes, he knew what was coming and he silently accepted defeat. “Why? What’s so special about your home?” 

He stepped closer, stopping at just inches away from you. “Careful, Y/N.” His tone caused you to stop smirking. “My home, so I make the rules. When I tell you to stop being a little brat, you stop being a little brat.” The way he looked down at you only made you want to misbehave even more. 

“Else what?” 

And that was it. There went all the self-control he had. His eyes, dangerous and mean stared into yours as he stepped closer, grabbed you by the throat gently and pulled your face closer to his. Your lips parted as you struggled to breath right - not because of his grip around your throat, but because of the proximity. You could feel his body heat and it made you whimper. 

“Else you’re gonna have to deal with the consequences. I’m gonna have to teach your bratty self how to behave.” He chuckled darkly. “But something tells me you’d like that, wouldn’t you babygirl?” He could tell by you whimpered that you would most definitely love that. 

“Steve,” you were at a loss of words. But you were so ready. “Please…”

He smirked. “You’ve been a bad, bad girl for so long. Teasing me, tormenting me,” He leaned in to whisper in your ear, “touching yourself while thinking of me. Who said you could do that? Hmm? Did you ask for permission?” 

“No…” you felt your arousal drip out of you at the sound of his lewd words. 

“From now on, you will come to me when your greedy, little cunt needs to be taken care of. Or you will touch yourself only when I give you permission to. Do you understand?” 

“Yes.” Your voice sounded shaky already. 

“Yes what?” 

Your walls clenched around nothing down there as you uttered the words, “Yes daddy.” 

He smiled. “Good girl.” He whispered and as he looked behind you, you saw how his deep blue eyes lit up once he saw something. “But since you’ve been such a brat lately, you still need to be taught a lesson. Don’t you think?” 

You nodded. He let go of your throat. “Anytime you want me to stop, just say so. Okay?” You nodded again as he slowly walked the two of you back until your legs hit the couch. He caught you by the arm before you fell backwards. “Bend over the armrest.” 

You did what he asked, supporting yourself up with your elbows. And let out a soft moan when you felt his warm hands slipping under your little dress and kneading your butt

“Daddy’s gonna spank you until your pretty little cunt is dripping, is that okay babygirl?” His voice got you all flustered and whiny. 

“Yes daddy.” 

“Good.” He dragged your underwear down till your ankles, waited for you to step out of them and lifted your dress up. He lifted his hand up in the air and brought it down to spank your ass. You whimpered in pleasure as the tingles died down eventually. “That’s for being a bratty little girl all the time.” 

Spank! “That’s for torturing daddy, and teasing him all day when he’s just trying to get work done.” 

You let out a little moan as he spanked you again. “That’s for always doing the exact opposite of what I ask you to, causing you to then ask for help for every little thing.” Spank! You moaned louder as his fingers trailed down to your wet folds, teasing you. “Daddy has to help you out with every little thing, isn’t it?” He chuckled, leaning down to kiss the back of your neck, “That’s okay. Daddy loves it.” 

Your skin burned under his lips. You were breathless, desperately wanting more. 

Spank! His hand lingered on your skin a little longer this time, caressing where it felt sore. “That’s for being a whiny little brat when you don’t always get what you want, when you want it.” Spank! “Such a spoilt brat, aren’t you babygirl?” 

You let out a breathless moan. You wanted more. He could tell by the way you pushed your butt out more and more each time after each spank. “Please…” 

He smirked and slid his hand further down, stroking your wet folds. “You’re so wet.” He cooed and lifted his hand and spanked you again. And again. And again. You whimpered in pleasure and slight pain. 

Spank! He smacked your dripping core instead of your butt. Your whole body tingled as he pulled you up against him again, your sore ass pressing into his erected cock, making both of you groaned under your breaths. “You did so good, babygirl.” His hand traveled to your front and under your dress and he touched your wet core. “You’re so wet for daddy,” He mumbled in your ear, “but you can’t cum yet.” You whined again. He chuckled. “Now you know how it feels when you tease daddy all the time. It’s not fun, is it babygirl?” 

“No.” You answered as he gave you space to turn around and face him. “It’s not. I’m sorry.” You stared at his lips and he noticed. 

“You know what would make daddy really happy though?” That made you look up into his irresistible eyes. “If you got down on your knees like a good girl, and sucked daddy’s cock and made him feel good.” He leaned in to brush his lips against yours. “Won’t you do that? Won’t you be a good girl for daddy?” 

You nodded frantically. Excited. But also needy. 

He plopped down onto the couch, manspreading and making you whimper just looking at him. “Come here,” he pointed in between his legs. “Kneel.” 

You did as he asked. He took your hand and placed it right on his erection. You bit your lower lip as you felt him; big and hard. Your hands hurried to lower the waistband of his sweats to free his erected cock. The sight of his perfect cock had you whining with need again. 

“Go on babygirl. Suck.” His voice was deeper than usual and it sent a shiver along your spine.

You wrapped your fingers around his cock and placed your mouth on his tip; your tongue slowly circling his tip. Steve held your head gently and slowly pushed himself deeper into your mouth. You bobbed your head around his tip; taking him in slowly until he hit the back of your throat.

He gripped your hair gently, moaning as he told you how much of a good girl you were. The sounds of his moans and grunts only made you whimper with his cock in your mouth. Your ass was sore, but that was the last thing on your mind. Right now, you needed to be Steve’s good girl. 

He twitched against your tongue and you tasted some of his pre cum which signified that he wasn’t going to last very long. His taste was all you could focus on; his raw taste and the feeling of his smooth skin against your tongue and the top of your mouth. 

He looked down at you and moaned again, he loved the sight of your spit coating his cock. You looked perfect on your knees, taking him so well just like he wanted you to. 

You looked up and met his wild, blue eyes. Just to mess with him, you took his cock out of your mouth and teased him a little bit more; licking his length from bottom to top while your hands toyed with his balls. He swore under his breath as you dragged your warm tongue over the slit of his tip lazily. 

He looked down at you with a smirk and a warning in his eyes and that was all it took for you to take him back into your mouth and suck on his cock until he came undone all over your tongue.

He gripped your hair, moaning loudly as he came. “Fuck.” He threw his head back to catch his breath. “Such a good girl.” he mumbled, looking down at you as you licked him clean; pulling his sweats back up before you climbed onto his lap, wiggling on purpose. 

He pulled you closer, making you grind against his semi-erected cock. You whined in need. “Aww, what is it babygirl? You want daddy?” he cooed, mocking you. He loved the effect his voice had on you. 

You nodded, pleading with your eyes as best you could. You needed him so bad, it hurt. “Please daddy.” 

He cupped your face and leaned in for a kiss. You felt his tongue stroke the top of your mouth, and his hands touched you wherever he could. A gentle, deep kiss; the kind that made your heart flutter and made your knees weak. He undressed you slowly, and you him. 

Once done, neither one of you could keep your hands off each other. 

“Steve… please,” you mumbled against his lips. He could feel your hunger, which then fueled his. Skin on skin, the desire burning between you two could no longer be ignored. 

He smirked. “I know baby, I know...” He whispered against your lips before flipping the two of you around and asking you to turn around and grip the back of the couch.

He got up and stood behind you. You knelt on the couch in front of him, legs spread apart, hands gripping the back of the couch with your back to him. You could feel him right there behind you. 

He gripped your hair gently into a makeshift ponytail, and pulled your head back just enough to take your breath away. His soft, warm lips hovered over the side of your throat, kissing along your neck as his other hand reached around and toyed with your folds; his fingers furiously toying with your clit and making you moan. 

“This is all you wanted, huh? To be fucked, and owned. You wanted my cock so badly, didn’t you?” His voice was deep and raspy when he spoke, his tongue licking along your neck while he abruptly stopped toying with your folds. “All this time, you’ve been practically begging me to fuck you. Well now’s the time baby. Go on, beg for me.”

You whimpered. Your body was on fire. You couldn’t take it any longer. You begged; wantonly, shamelessly.  He chuckled and tugged harder on your hair, making you whimper and moan even more. “That’s a good girl.” 

He gripped each side of your hips, tightly; spreading your legs apart a little more as he aligned his cock to your entrance. You shivered in anticipation as you waited. You couldn’t see him, and in front of you, through the large glass floor-to-ceiling window, you had a lovely view of the city lights but that didn’t matter anymore. 

He hand reached around and gently grabbed you by the throat again. “Are we good, babygirl? You okay?” 

You nodded quickly, heart racing, your body heated. “Yes, yes please...” You mumbled. 

He gave you a gentle kiss on your cheek, his stubble pressing into your skin. You closed your eyes and bit your lower lip as his soft lips kissed along your lower jaw. “I’m gonna fuck your sweet little cunt until you’re shaking…” he murmured, more so to himself. 

With a slow, steady push, he inserted his length into you. He groaned and grunted as he filled you up entirely. You heard his ragged breaths right by your ear as he removed himself out and pushed himself back into you again; your ass cheek pressing into his pelvic bone as he pounded into you. 

You shuddered as you felt all of him, while he mumbled about how good you were. He panted in your ear, kissing the side of your face as his hand left your throat and roamed around your body, touching you wherever he could, memorizing the shape of you until he finally cupped your core and played with your swollen clit. Your moans were incessant, you could already feel a sore throat coming. 

“You feel so good, baby…” he mumbled, slamming into you relentlessly, stretching you out and pounding into you like his life depended on it; the sounds of your skin slapping one another resonated around the room. 

“Fuck…” his voice cracked as he moaned under his breath. 

You could feel your walls clench around him, and tighten around his thick member; making him swear out loud. Your body moved along with his, your legs felt numb as he relentlessly slammed into you. 

Your moans got louder and he bent down to kiss along your shoulder blades and the back of your neck. “Take me, babygirl. Take all of me like you’ve dreamt of so many times…” he whispered against your skin as he rocked into you, faster and faster. He could barely hold it together himself but he had to give you what you’ve been wanting this whole time. 

You were a teary mess, he couldn’t see but he could tell by the sound of your voice. The view of the city in front of you was now getting blurrier with each passing second. Yet, you still wanted more. 

You cried out loud in pleasure as his hands gripped your hips, pushing you into him more and more each time he filled you up. You felt a sweet pressure forming in between your legs, intensifying each time the tip of his cock brushed against your sensitive spot. 

“Steve…” you cried, unable to handle the pleasure. It was overwhelming. 

He slowed down for just a second. “I’m right here, baby.” He kissed the side of your face. “I’m here, it’s okay. Are you gonna cum for me? You’re gonna be a good girl and cum for daddy? Hmm?” 

You nodded, now a whimpering, tear-stained mess. He took you higher… and higher… 

“Cum for me.” his voice was all it took for you to come undone. You came hard without any warning.

He didn’t slow down as you felt your orgasm wash over you, he kept pounding into you as your eyes rolled back; kept slamming into you, chasing his own orgasm as your walls clenched around him, squeezing him like he had dreamt of last night. 

He gripped your hair in his fist and tugged on it again, moaning right in your ear as he felt his orgasm forming. Your walls tightened around him, and he groaned as he came undone right after you; buried deep within you. His warm cum shoot at your walls and trickled out of you when he carefully removed his length from your entrance.

You were struggling to hold yourself up, your legs shaking and your body trembling. But Steve held you against him as he threw himself on the couch, pulling you into his lap. His body was damp and warm, and you loved the feeling of his strong arms around you. You buried your face into the crook of his neck. 

He rubbed along your sides as he whispered comforting words in your ear. His hands rubbing your body everywhere he could. “You did so good, baby.” 

---

You don’t remember getting to Steve’s bed the previous night, but that’s where you woke up; under his warm sheets, a pair of lips kissing your face gently. 

“Wake up, Miss.” 

You groaned. “Don’t call me that.” You mumbled from under the sheets. You tried sitting up and you felt sore in places you didn’t know one could feel sore. Steve caught the frown on your face and when you looked up and to send him a death glare, he just chuckled. 

You noticed that he was dressed already. 

“Come on now. We have to go.” 

You hid under the blankets again. “No.” 

He sighed. Of course, he should’ve known he’d have to deal with all your antics again. “You need to get home, and I need to get to work. Now come on, we have to go.” 

You peaked from under the blankets. “Give me a kiss first.” You bargained. 

He rolled his eyes and walked up to his bed, leaning over you. “You’re just gonna pull me back into bed with you and then we’re both not going to want to leave at all.” 

You held both your hands out, “Just one kiss, I promise.” 

He gave in, he leaned in and cupped your face with one hand and pressed his lips to yours. It started out all gentle and slow but then you pulled him closer by the back of his neck and he accidentally let out a moan. You tried pulling him back under the covers but he pulled away right before he gave in completely. 

“No.” He pulled away. “Home, now.” He used the same tone as he did when waking you up for work each day. 

You groaned and eventually, reluctantly, got out of his bed. 

 ---

Everything was going great after that night. 

Your days just got a whole lot better with Steve around. Sure, you kept being the brat that you are, just so he could drag you all the way to your bedroom and ‘teach you how to behave’ at any time during the day. 

It was safe to say that you began catching feelings for each other. You brightened up Steve’s days and him yours. Bathroom quickies, morning sex, and spending nights together quickly became more frequent than you expected. 

You teased him just the same, and it almost always resulted in him fucking you just how you wanted him to. 

All was well. 

Until your parents came home for a weekend out of nowhere. And they left just as quickly as they came but their arrival made Steve feel terrible. Steve couldn’t help but feel guilty when your father asked him if he was taking good care of you. Obviously, he guarded your little secret well. But he felt terrible, like he was betraying your parents. 

He wasn’t supposed to do this. Above all, he shouldn’t have even thought that he could be with you. Really, what was he thinking? This was wrong. He worked for your parents, and you. This was unprofessional. Inappropriate. 

You noticed that his stand-offish manner remained even after your parents were gone. So you confronted him about it one morning. 

“Is everything okay between us?” 

He looked up at you, and nodded. Truth is, he didn’t know how to let you down. 

“Steve, seriously.” 

He sighed. He walked over to where you stood and faced you with a look which gave away what he might have been thinking all this time. “This has to stop.” 

Your heart raced. “What does?” 

He pointed between you and him. “This.” 

You were sure you could fix whatever was wrong. “If you’re worried about mom and dad finding out then-,” 

He cut you off. “No. Listen to me. I feel like I’m doing the wrong thing here, like I’m leading you on because… let’s face it, we can never be together.” He could visibly see how he was breaking your heart. He took a deep breath. “I should have tried to make you see sense. I shouldn’t have… used you. I can’t help but feel like I’m using you, I-,” 

You cut him off this time. “Steve, you’re not.” He stepped forward to cup his face but he caught your hands before you could, pulling away from you. 

“You don’t understand. This… this can’t happen. It probably isn’t real. What you feel for me could be something else and you’re mistaken and-,” 

You couldn’t believe him. “How dare you?” You got defensive really quickly, trying to hide how it hurt. 

He got quiet. Maybe this was the wrong way of dealing with this situation? 

You straightened your back and took a step away from him. “Look, if you don’t want me anymore then just say so. Don’t make silly excuses, we’re not children.” 

He spoke up quickly. “All I’m saying is that you’re young. Perhaps you’re not thinking straight. Look, I’ve mistaken lust for love too in the past, when I was younger. It’s not-,” 

You stopped him before he hurt you even more. You were hurt, but mostly angry at this point. “Just because I’m younger than you doesn’t mean that my feelings aren’t real or valid, or that I don’t know what I want. Also you have no right to water down my feelings like that. Who are you to tell me what I feel? How fucking dare you?” 

He realized he must have dealt with this differently. But it was too late now, he hurt you. The sight of your watery eyes was unbearable, knowing that he’s the one who caused it. I’m sorry, babygirl. “Y/N, I’m just-,” 

You raised your voice. “Enough!” You didn’t let your tears fall in front of him. “Screw you, Steve.” You grabbed your bag and made your way out of your house, got in the car and drove to work in anger and your heart aching. 

You cried in the car before you got out. What happened? Everything was so perfect. Why did he feel this way all of a sudden? To a point where he made himself believe that what you felt for him wasn’t real? Where did that even come from? Did he think that you were just a confused young girl, seeking attention? 

That bit really hurt. It hurt more because you fell for him, hard and it wasn’t something you could control. 

You started your day rough, and it seemed it was only going to get worse because you’d be replaying the scene from the kitchen this morning all day long. 

 As for Steve, he was equally a mess as you were. He kept cursing himself as he tried his hardest to go about his day but the thought of your teary face this morning was haunting him in broad daylight. 

He could’ve been less mean, more understanding. You were human after all. How could he have hurt you like that when all he ever cared for this whole time was your well-being? 

He was upstairs doing something when your bedroom door caught his eye. He stepped in and immediately regretted all that he did this morning. It was unfair towards you and now he felt even more guilty. 

He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, standing in the middle of your room. It smelt like you; floral, fierce and enticing. His favorite girl, how could have hurt you so much? He felt guilty, but perhaps he failed to see how happy he actually made you. 

His eyes fell on your freshly made bed. In the past month following that night at his apartment, he had spent quite some nights here. Memories of all times spent with you, not just for the past month, but the past years as well flashed in his mind. 

Oh he had fucked up. 

He walked out of your bedroom, already taking his gloves off. He needed to change and go find you and apologize before it gets worse. 

-

You were in the middle of yet another business call when you heard a knock on your door. You quickly wrapped up the call and called out in annoyance, “Come in.” You had been quite moody since this morning. 

Steve was the last person you expected to enter your office this afternoon. You stood up immediately; not having the heart to tell him to get out. All your anger vanished the minute you saw him standing there, all that was left was the hurt. And fuck did it hurt. 

He closed the door behind him and lingered around the door itself, still wondering how he should start his apology. Also the broken look in your eyes felt like a thousand daggers piercing him all at the same time. 

“Came to tell me some more about how much of a stupid, young and confused girl I am?” You sassed. Your go-to method of dealing with emotions was to be as sassy and as ruthless as humanly possible, Steve was aware of that. 

He sighed. “I came to apologize. I shouldn’t have said all that.” He took a deep breath and kept going. “I felt terrible when I spoke to your parents.” He finally confessed. “They trust me to take good care of you, like a guardian. But I have been…” he couldn’t find the right words. “I felt guilty. And it’s not your fault, but I couldn’t figure out how to deal with all this. I thought maybe if I push you away it would… I don’t know. I don’t know, Y/N. I’m sorry I hurt you.” 

You listened, trying to grasp the reasons why he said what he said this morning. 

“Then what made you think that I might be confused about what I feel?” You questioned. 

He took a step forward, feeling terrible now that he was voicing out everything. “I don’t know, I thought that you- that maybe you… I-,’ 

You cut him off, repeating your question because you could tell he had an answer but didn’t want to tell you. “What made you think so, Steve? The truth, please.” 

He stared into your eyes for a few seconds. “I thought that perhaps you weren’t sure about your feelings… for me. Why would you fall for someone like me, I mean, I work for your parents.” He let out a dry chuckle. “I thought that maybe you were mistaking everything that’s been happening since that night at my apartment to be… something it’s not.” 

You scoffed. You simplified and rephrased what he had just said, “So you think that I’ve been going on about how much you mean to me just because you fuck me good?” 

That felt like a slap across his face. “That’s not-,” 

“Do you even like me? Or is it just… I don’t know, convenient sex to you?” 

He had the same look of hurt on his face which you had this morning. “Don’t you dare say that. You know how I feel about you.” He had told you many times how he feels and he meant it. The fact that you even questioned him hurt. 

You scoffed and nodded. You walked around your desk, stopping at the side of it. “Take a seat.” 

He looked confused for a moment. “What?” 

“Take a seat, Steve.” You pointed to one of the chairs and he walked right over without any question. 

Your heart burned as you looked at him, wanting to just shower him with tender love and affection but you had to clear some things up first. 

He looked up at you with his deep blue eyes, wondering if he had lost you for good. It would kill him if that were the case. He could no longer imagine his days without you. 

“Do you remember the night of my 20th birthday, Steve?” You asked. 

He looked down at his lap and cracked a little smile. “That was 6 years ago, Y/N. It’s a little blurry.” 

You smiled at the memory. “Mom and dad were away, as usual. But they promised they would make it back before the night ends, for my birthday dinner. But then, they both forgot about it and later blamed it on the workload. I went to bed crying that night, like I had all day.” As you narrated that day, it helped him remember a little bit. You continued, “But then someone knocked on my door. It was you, standing there with a little cupcake and a candle. It was your day off but you were the only one who didn’t forget that it was my birthday.” 

He remembered it now. He remembered how he found your little teary face when you opened your bedroom door and how you jumped in his arms. 

He remained quiet. 

You kept going. “The year after that, I begged mom and dad to be home for Christmas because I was dying to have some family time with them. But they called and said they couldn’t make it. Do you know who put with my shit and helped me decorate the entire house with obnoxious Christmas music on? You.” 

He smiled a little bigger at the memory. He remembered how you pouted and followed him around the entire day, asking him to help you with decoration. He remembers the way his heart fluttered when he saw the biggest, most genuine smile on your face after he agreed to do so. He would do anything just to see that same smile on your face right now. 

You stepped a little closer. 

“Do you remember the times when I used to go clubbing almost every weekend? And you would have to track me down and bring me home safe at like three in the morning every time?” You chuckled at the memory. “And then you sat me down one day and asked me to get my shit together.” 

He remembered that as well. That was one of the only times he had been so strict with you. He simply could not watch you waste your life away like that and put yourself in danger. He was glad you listened. 

“And all those times when I missed mom and dad but I couldn’t call them because I knew they were always busy, so I called you. At odd hours and you would always show up. And you’d stay for as long as I needed you to. And I’d drag you along to go get ice-cream with me in the middle of the night. You remember that?” 

He looked up at you and his smile vanished. You had tears streaming down your face. “Y/N…” 

“It was you, Steve. It’s always been you.” You fought the need to cry. “I didn’t fall for you because of that night at your apartment. All these years, all those mundane things added up to now, when I can finally tell you how I feel and how important you are to me. And when you try to reduce it to nothing but lust and confusion, it really hurts.” 

He got up from his seat. “Baby… I’m so, so sorry.” 

You wiped your tears away. “It’s okay if you want nothing to do with me. None of this will affect your job, and my parents will never find out. You can walk out of this, I’ll understand. But don’t tell me what I feel for you isn’t real. Because it is. I love you, and that’s real.” 

He closed the distance between the two of you, grabbing your face and to pull you closer gently. “Shh…” he whispered, one of his arms circling your waist and pulling you closer, “I’m not gonna walk out. I’m not going anywhere.” 

He pressed his lips to yours, gently. He kissed you passionately; arms wrapping around your body, tongue stroking the inside of your mouth while he occasionally bit down on your lip. Your hands found their way into his soft hair, you tugged on it gently while moaning softly into the kiss. 

He gave you a second to catch your breath. “I adore you, babygirl. And that’s real too.” He mumbled against your lips before kissing you again while gently pushing you against the edge of your desk until you got on top of it. He stepped in between your legs and deepened the kiss. You gripped his hair and tugged a little more and he let out a quiet, breathy moan. 

His warm hand caressed your thigh, given your dress had bunched up higher than before. His other hand gently held your lower jaw as he kissed and nibbled on your skin, down your neck; making you squirm and forget all about the world outside. Here, with him now, was all that mattered. 

You felt his fingers lazily making their way across your inner thighs. His knuckles gently stroked your clothed core and you leaned your head back at the sudden wave of pleasure; letting out a soft moan. 

Steve gently toyed with your still clothed, now wet, core. Your hand tugged on his sweater and you pulled him closer, placing your lips on his again. Your other hand dipped in between your bodies and you unbuckled his pants as quickly as you could. You felt him bite down on your skin when you palmed him through his underwear. 

“Steve… I want you…” You whispered in his ear. 

You moaned as he kissed his way up to your neck. “I know, baby. I know…” he pulled away to look at you with hooded eyes. 

You lowered his underwear and pulled out his cock. He rapidly dragged your underwear down your legs and threw them somewhere behind him. He spread your legs open and aligned his cock to your core. 

You could feel his tip, leaking with precum, slightly pressing against your clit. Slowly, he slipped inside of you, groaning at how tight you were. You felt his length stretching you out entirely. He started rocking in and out of you slowly, then eventually, he sped up. 

“Steve…”You moaned out loud, feeling all of him; stretching you, filling you up, moving rapidly in and out of you to the point where the only thing you could focus on was his body.

“I’m right here, baby…” he whispered, pounding into you relentlessly, as he bent down to kiss your open mouth, swallowing all your moans and mewls in the process. 

You whined upon hearing the wet, slapping sounds your bodies made when they came in contact with one another. Mixed with his scent and the growls leaving his mouth, it was all too sinful, too good. 

“You’re all mine.” He stared down at you, his ocean blue eyes showing you all the love he had for you. You could only nod, unable to form coherent sentences while he pounded into you like he owned you. He leaned in again, kissing you softly. “Say it, babygirl. Tell me you’re mine.” he whispered against your lips.

Something about how he sounded so calm even while he was fucking you hard made you tremble under him. “I’m yours…” you whispered, shuddering under him. He smirked and sped up into you again, relishing the feeling of you wrapped around him like you were made for it.

Hearing you moan and squirm under him only encouraged him to thrust deeper into you, he wanted to feel all of you and he wanted you to feel all of him. He wanted you to know that he was here, and was not planning on going anywhere. He was relentless. He moaned right in your ear as his body moved perfectly against yours. “I’m so sorry baby, I didn’t mean to hurt you. I love you so, so much...” 

You whined; feeling a thin layer of sweat covering both your bodies as your walls milked him perfectly. A tear fell from your eye, out of pleasure. He was quick to wipe it away. He bent down and kissed your lips, pounding into you rapidly like his life depended on it.

“I love you more…” 

He felt you clench and tighten around him, “Cum for me, baby...” He whispered, his voice strained and raspy. Your mind was foggy by now, and it took your brain a few seconds to even process his words.

Not even a few moments later, you felt him twitch inside of you; his cock throbbing against your walls. He came with a growl, gripping your hips. You whined as you came around him as well, hard and fast. 

He didn’t pull his cock out of you as he engulfed you in his arms, tucking your head under his chin as he held you against his warm body. You could hear his frantic heartbeats, and he could feel yours. 

“I’m sorry.” He whispered again. 

You pulled away from his hug just a little so you could look at him. “Hey,” you reached out to touch his face. “Stop apologizing. We’re gonna be okay.” 

He smiled down at you. “I’m gonna have to love you in secret.” He leaned down and rubbed the tip of his nose to yours. You giggled. 

“Not for long. We’ll figure something out.” You grabbed him by his face and pulled him closer, and whispered dramatically, “Or maybe we could run away.” Your words made his smile. You pulled him in for a kiss, and whispered, “Till then, I’ll love you when no one is around.” 

[plus-size-reader]

Habits

Hannibal Lecter x Plus size!reader

Word Count: 2413 words

Warnings: none

Summary: Spending time with Hannibal, in a different way than normal. 

Another in the draft clean out, because I would love nothing more than a casual day with this man 

—————————————————————————————————

Hannibal was a creature of habit.

He always had been.

Every day went the same way and that was by design.

He rose with the sun, had some tea with whatever breakfast he’d chosen to prepare and then he went to work.

Most of the time, he didn't even bother to wake you before he left. Instead, he’d settle for a small kiss on your forehead before he left the bedroom.

There was no real reason to wake you so early.

Besides, it wasn’t like you had to be to work at such an obscene hour. Hannibal only went in early to prepare the files for the day, giving himself more than enough time  to get organized before his first appointment.

It wouldn’t have made sense to bother you out of bed when he was just going to turn around and leave anyhow.

Not that he always had to leave so early.

Even someone like Hannibal had to rest sometime and when he did take days off, the two of you would get up out of bed at around the same time, letting your bodies wake you instead of that clock on the wall.

It was a leisurely life, one that you couldn’t have been happier in, but that didn’t mean it wasn’t an adjustment for you when you  moved in with the man you loved.

Almost everything had changed when you moved in with Hannibal.

You had never been an outgoing sort of person, in the traditional sense, and you didn’t have a ton of outdoor hobbies but you were nowhere near as reclusive as Hannibal turned out to be.

He rarely left the sanctuary of his home in his free time, and when he did venture outside, it wasn’t in search of something new to occupy his time.

It was always the same.

Outside of work, Hannibal chose to fill up all of his free time with the things he enjoyed, without exception. That meant that the two of you spend more of your evenings cooking, reading and occasionally going to the opera.

It was wonderful, of course, but sometimes you found yourself itching to do something different from the usual routine.

There was just so that the world had to offer Hannibal that he wasn’t interested in.

He was a creature of habit, through and through,  and found joy in the familiarity and comfort of the things he liked. He liked the things that he liked for a reason, and it didn’t make sense to deviate from that.

Especially considering that he already knew he wasn’t interested in most of what the world had to offer. In his years, he’d seen plenty of the surrounding world and  while parts of it were beautiful and interesting, it didn’t really interest him any more than anything else.

His perfect evening involved the two of you in bed, reading and enjoying one another’s company.

It didn’t have to be anything extravagant.

In that way, you supposed he was easy to please.

The only trouble with that way of life was that it made doing new things and branching out kind of difficult, for both of you, because he was so much more comfortable at home.

However, as wonderful as it was, you both seemed to know that  staying in that little bubble you’d created for yourselves wasn’t going to work forever.

At some point,you would have to find something else to do to occupy your time.

As much as you loved looking at him, eventually, staring at each other all evening was bound to lose its luster.

You were beginning to grow tired of never going anywhere, outside of the few places Hannibal enjoyed visiting.

There was a difference between liking to be at home and not having a social life.

It had been months since you’d had a dinner party or any friends over at all and you were getting tired of never doing anything or seeing anyone.

You had always been the more social of the two of you and it was starting to worry you that you may go out of your mind in isolation. Hannibal was your world, but you needed to be around people that weren’t him every once in a while.

To maintain the humanity of you both.

...and you weren’t the only one who was feeling a little trapped in the current setting.

Hannibal loved his routine and he found comfort in it and while he could have continued on with his way forever, it was no secret that you were struggling.

By this point, he could practically see how restless you were growing, and if he didn’t do something, it was bound to get worse before it got any better.

As if his introverted social life wasn’t strenuous enough on you, his work couldn’t have been more demanding.

After all, the reason Hannibal had no trouble staying at home almost every night was because during the day, almost every day, he was busy working. He worked impressively long hours, and that meant that you didn’t see him as much as you would have liked.

Ever.

He was a busy man, which you understood, and you didn’t want to come between him and his job, so you made it work when you could.

You enjoyed every moment you did have with him, allowing yourself to be okay with whatever time he made for you, even if it was to just listen to opera music in the study.

Today, though, you knew that Hannibal had a day off which meant that you had a rare opportunity to do anything outside of the norm of what you normally would.

There was no busy schedule to keep up with or anything he had to do that would keep him from you. Anything he could come up with, or any reason to avoid spending time with you today would be little more than an excuse.

You both knew it.

So, Hannibal made up his mind.

Today, the two of you were going to do something you hadn’t done in a very long time.

You were going to spend the whole day together, doing exactly what it was you wanted to do for a change.

It wasn’t going to change everything all at once, but he was hoping it would at least make you feel a little better.

“I would like to spend the day together, maybe we could try something new” he’d said, shocking you with his offer. After all, it wasn’t every day that Hannibal informed you that the entire day was entirely up for interpretation.

For the most part, you just spent time working, or relaxing with Hannibal, without much discussion beforehand. You weren’t exactly used to having a whole day filled with memories alongside the man you loved.

It was making you more nervous than you’d initially been expecting.

...but, as confused as you were over the choice he’d made today, you weren’t about to refuse such an incredible offer.

You wanted today to be perfect, and you were sure that it would be because as long as you were with Hannibal, it would be a wonderful day.

In all honesty, you were excited.

It had been a while since you’d gotten a chance to spend a whole day together and it was going to be wonderful. The possibilities were endless and even though you knew Hannibal was likely dreading it, you understood the sentiment.

You two didn’t really have a ton of time or desire for casual leisure, and hadn’t got a chance to explore it until now.

Not that anyone looking in would have been able to tell.

From the outside, you and Hannibal looked like any other couple, just having a nice stroll on a Friday afternoon.

It would have been hard for them to believe this was the first time in a week you’d been out of your house for more than an hour.

“What did you have in mind for today?” you hummed, walking alongside Hannibal on the sidewalk. All he’d told you this entire time was that you two were going to spend the entire day together and that was all.

He could have had anything in mind.

If there was one thing about Hannibal you understood more than anything, it was that there was no telling what was swirling around in his head.

Even with as many years as you’d been together, sometimes you couldn't read him.

...and there were thousands of things it could have been.

“It wouldn’t be a surprise if I told you, would it?” he countered, his voice as deep and assured as it always was, a soft smirk playing at his lips as he teased you. That was all he’d said this whole time since you’d left the house this morning and it was driving you crazy.

You hated surprises, and he knew that.

That meant that he was intentionally giving you the bare minimum to frustrate you.

...and it was working.

You didn’t like that answer, of course, but you knew that Hannibal had already made up his mind. He wanted this to be a surprise and he wasn’t going to tell you anything about what he’d planned until you got to your destination.

It was what it was.

So, you decided to just make yourself content with the journey instead of worrying about where you were going. You did know Hannibal well enough to know that he wasn’t going to tell you anything until he was ready to.

Not that it really mattered where you were going to go.

After all, this whole day was just for you and Hannibal, and you didn’t want to waste a moment of it worrying.

It wasn’t going to make a difference in the long run anyhow.

~

The weather today was incredible.

It was sunny, with a nice breeze, and while you and Hannibal had never been outside people, you decided to make an exception today.  

This was one of the best days you’d had in recent memory and you wanted it to stay that way. You wanted to savor every single second, because it really did mean the world to you.

“As much as I hate surprises, I like this quite a bit” you decided, looking around you as if proving your point. There were kids laughing across the way, playing together in the nearby park and birds chirping in the distance.

It was a wonderful day to just spend with the man you loved.

The kind of thing you didn’t get very often.

“I’m glad”

That was all Hannibal said as he walked, finding the wonder on your face much more interesting than the surrounding scene. For him, it didn’t mean anything, and wasn’t all that interesting, but clearly, that wasn’t the case for you.

You seemed to really enjoy this whole thing, which was more than enough for him to keep doing it.

If anyone deserved this from him, it was you.

It was no secret that you struggled more than you would ever tell him with what Hannibal did for a living and how much of his time it seemed to take up, but he appreciated it even still.

You were the only person in the world who stood by him even when no one else would, and it was far more than he could have ever asked of anyone else.

Of course, his silence was sort of strange but you decided to pay it no mind. Knowing Hannibal, he was probably just antsy about having to be away from his office today.

...and you weren’t entirely wrong.

Hannibal was definitely antsy but for once, the strange energy leaching off of him into the surrounding space had nothing to do with his career. Instead, it had everything to do with you.

You and what he’d had planned for your shared day off.

He had just put so much work into it and as you neared the spot he’d chosen, he was growing more and more nervous about how you would react to what he’d decided to do today.

All he wanted was for you to like it, and if you didn’t, he wasn't sure what he’d do.

Not that he actually had to worry.

In reality, as soon as you saw what you deduced must have been the reason for his odd behavior today, you nearly melted on the spot.

It was adorable.

Somehow, Hannibal had managed to lead you to this spot in the park without you noticing, and now, right in front of you, was a beautiful oak tree, one that you’d never had the privilege of seeing before.

...and that wasn’t all.

Not only was the tree gorgeous, but the cherry on top remained the small striped blanket resting beneath it in the grass, shielded from the midday sun by the shade.

It was perfect, but you didn’t want to get too excited right off the bat.

After all, it was possible that this wasn’t for you after all and you didn’t want to make a fool of yourself if you could avoid it.

“What is this?” you asked, finding yourself more and more surprised as the day ticked by. How did he always manage to do this to you, every time you turned around.

Just when you thought you knew what to expect from your husband, he still managed to turn your expectation on their head, every time without fail.

“I figured this was a fair compromise from our usual activities” he shrugged, sitting down on the ground, readjusting the legs of his slacks as he settled against the fabric, offering a hand to you so that you may do the same.

It was great.

The same fresh breeze and shining sun sat above you, and all around but more than anything, all you could think about was Hannibal.

Almost everything about this was out of his comfort zone, but he’d still put it together without hesitation for you.

It was incredible.

“Do you like it?” Hannibal asked, watching as you smiled, your fingers spreading out in the grass outside of the boundaries of the blanket. 

You looked so content, and so happy, which was more than enough to answer his question.

It might not have been what he prepared to do with his time but it would have been impossible for Hannibal to ignore how nice this whole thing was.

Maybe this wasn’t so bad after all.

[wordsfromthesol]

Hunted

Author: @wordsfromthesol​ Taglist: togasbetch malfoys-demigod pricetagofficial Pairing: Dick Grayson x Reader Summary: You're a detective at Bludhaven PD with Dick Grayson and when a serial killer your after starts hunting you down, you have no choice but to ask for his help. Warnings: Kidnapping, stalking Word Count: 2.3k

You had been working at Bludhaven PD for about 2 years before the hotshot Dick Grayson came on the scene. Though you had grown into friends or at least friendly coworkers…he annoyed the shit out of you. After all, everything seemed to come so easy to the pretty boy Grayson and you could count the number of times you had actually seen him at the station on one hand. Thankfully this happened to be one of those times because you had run out of options.

"Dick, can I get your eyes on this case? I'm been staring at these files for hours and can't find the pattern. Yeah, they've obviously got a type. But that's not enough to go on."

Dick briefly runs through the file before staring blankly up at you. "You can't be serious, right? You need to take yourself off this case."

"People are dying, Dick." You had already assumed you would get some pushback from the star detective.

"I can't let you go after this guy. You're an exact match to all 5 people they've killed." Dick attempted to reason with you, to no avail.

"Then I'm the exact person who should go after this guy. Rather it be me than some civilian." Finally, Dick relented and gave you some useful information.

"Well…everyone was taken near an abandoned subway line." He takes out a highlighter and marks up the map. You tried to mask your nervousness as the bright yellow line stopped a block from your apartment.

"Thanks…I didn't even notice that." He nodded, still apprehensive about giving you the information, as he handed the file back to you. Tucking the papers away, you decided to finish up the research at home. 

As you sauntered home, you were barely able to keep your eyes open. Stopping at the crosswalk, you noticed a man staring at you in your peripheral vision. You swore he was the same man from five blocks ago. Surely you were just paranoid…right? You began weaving in and out of the crowd, making a complete circle back to the crosswalk. Yet there he was in the corner of your eye. This wasn't paranoia. This was real. You pulled your phone out of your pocket and pressed Dick's contact card.

"Hey, uhm…remember that case we were talking about today?"

"You mean literally 20 minutes ago? Yeah, I remember."

A nervous chuckle escaped your lips, "Well you were probably right." Dick could hear the shakiness in your voice.

"He's following you, isn't he?"

Your current situation momentarily left your mind as the words tumbled out of your mouth, bypassing the brain. "How the fuck could you possibly know that?!"

"Don't go home. I'm coming to get you." You wanted to plead with him to stay on the line, but your stubbornness got the best of you. Slowing your pace, you attempted to stay in the crowd and walked straight. How was Dick even going to find you? As soon as the thought danced across your mind, there he was, as if you summoned him from thin air.

"Y/N!" The familiar voice called out from the street. A deep sigh of relief flooded over you as you trotted over to him. Crawling on the back of the motorcycle, you didn't bother asking where he was taking you. Anywhere was better than here.

**

"Wow. Just wow." Dick shook his head in awe as he climbed off the bike, ushering you into the apartment building.

"It's not like I planned it." You tried to force the uneasiness from your voice.

"Right, of course not. You realize he had to have been following you for days now, right? He knows where you live. You can't go back there." You hadn't really thought about that, yet where were you supposed to go? You looked at him pensively, unable to form a proper sentence. "Looks like you're staying here then." The alacrity of the statement caught you off guard.

"I can't just --"

"Right right. So let's go antagonize the serial killer. Genius." The sheer amount of sarcasm took you aback, this was a completely different side of the infamous Dick Grayson than you were used to.

You glared at him as he opened the door to his apartment. "So dramatic…besides, someone has to stop him. He's already after me, so I'm the perfect bait."

Dick's eyes went wide. He looked at you like you had three heads before bellowing, "ABSOLUTELY FUCKING NOT!"

"Do you have a better plan?" Part of you hoped he would begin rattling off some convoluted trap. One that didn't hold your life in the balance.

"Well…not yet. But I'm sure we can think of something. Give me a few days."

**

A few days came and went and you were losing your mind in Dick's apartment. The worst part was, you were never alone. Dick or one of his family members was always by your side. You weren't quite sure how some 14-year-old kid was supposed to do anything if said serial killer showed up, but Dick was insistent.

Finally, you caught a break. Jason, your latest babysitter got called away on some emergency and Dick wouldn’t be home for another hour. Of course, Jason informed you to tell Dick he left just moments ago, which actually worked in your favor. You dialed Captain Holt on your phone and began to strategize. The captain wasn't keen on using you for bait either, but eventually, you swayed him. Everything was planned to take place tomorrow afternoon, a time Dick just so happened to be testifying in court.

"Y/N?" The confusion spread across Dick's face as he opened the door.

"I'm here!" You called out from the bedroom before stepping into sight.

"Where's Jason?"

"Oh, family emergency. But he left like two minutes ago. Nothing to worry about."

"Okay…" Dick didn't sound convinced.

"I also got a call from the captain today. He wants to meet with me tomorrow at 2." You tried to play it off as a casual request, but you knew it wouldn't be that simple.

"What? Why? We still haven't caught the psychopath…plus I have court tomorrow."

"Dick, I'll be in a police station. You can drop me off on your way."

Dick let out an exasperated sigh, "Fine. But I don't like it."

**

You were absolutely terrified, but you tried your best not to let it show through. After all, you asked for this. Dick still seemed uneasy, even as he dropped you off at the precinct. You wondered if he could tell something was wrong. Though there wasn't much he could do at this point, considering he was due in court by noon.

"Y/N. Are you sure about this?" Captain Holt questioned as you walked into his office.

"No. But something needs to be done. This guy doesn't just give up. So either I'm bait and we have a chance at catching him, or I die a horrific death for no reason. Not the best of options."

Holt nodded in understanding, "Well everything is set up. We have snipers in position around the perimeter of your apartment and a dozen plain-clothed in the vicinity."

"So hopefully we have a chance. What about near the abandoned subway entrance? That's how Dick thinks he's staying out of sight."

"Covered. We are ready to go on your command. Though I still think Detective Grayson should be informed of the plan."

"He's in court. So he couldn't help out anyways. The fewer people that know, the better. Let's move."

**

You arrived at your apartment without any issues, though you could feel a million pairs of eyes on you. With everyone watching you, it would be hard to notice one more face. Nevertheless, you persisted, attempting to go about your day in your apartment. The apartment that now seemed so foreign to you, though you had only been unexpectedly ripped from it a week ago.

As the day went on you began to feel more and more lightheaded. Normally, you would chalk it up to stress, but given the situation, you decided otherwise.

"Captain…"

"There is still no sign of him," he ignored the strain in your voice.

"I think…he's already…here." A crashing sound was left ringing through the earpiece.

"I want everyone on her position now! Get me a visual!" Captain Holt's booming voice commanded those around him. "Where are my snipers?!" An eerie silence crept over the line. "Shit." He mumbled before pulling out his phone. The dial tone appeared to mock him until finally the other end picked up.

"What happened?" The stringent words reverberated in the air.

"He has her."

"Goddammit. How did he get her out of the precinct?" Dick didn't wait for an answer. "Because she wasn't in the precinct. How could you let her be bait? You've seen what this guy does!" The anger was bubbling up inside him. Out of everyone, why you. Why did he have to go after you?

"I know."

"How long? HOW LONG HAS HE HAD HER?!" Two cops turned towards Captain Holt as Dick's voice echoed from the speaker.

"About a minute. From her apartment." As soon as the word left his lips, the line went dead. Holt buried his head in his hands. If there was any hope of finding her, it was Dick Grayson.

**

You woke up in a cold, dark, concrete room. "Well, guess that didn't work out as planned…" You mumbled to yourself, or so you thought.

"Really? You thought a bunch of cops in blue jeans could stop me? I've been hunting you for months. Along with the others.  But you. You were my challenge. I memorized everything about you. Your favorite breakfast, your confidants, what time you call your family. Lovely little folks, by the way. And then you thought you could hideaway in that pathetic little Richard Grayson's apartment. The only reason I didn't take you then is because I didn't want to. What kind of challenge would that be? That would have diminished everything!" He carefully stepped around your chair, weaving your hair in and out of his fingers, until he turned to face you. "But now, here you are! My masterpiece! My coup d'etat!" His lips forced their way to yours. "Don't worry, my sweet. I'll take my time with you. After all, the grand finale demands perfection!" The crazed man turned on his heel and sauntered out of the room, leaving you with your own horrific thoughts.

It felt like hours had gone by before he returned. When he walked in, his eyes went immediately to your wrists and fingernails, which were now bloodied beyond recognition. "Now I wish you hadn't done that. Blood does not make for a spectacular fossilization." He walked around and surveyed the damage. "I guess it was to be expected though. After all, it wouldn't be fun without the challenge."

"You know, you keep saying that this is some big challenge, yet you gassed me and then tied me up. That doesn't seem like you are really challenging yourself."

"Simple-minded fool! Challenges are not always those of brute force. It took planning and timing to get you here. Those 4 snipers set up on the surrounding roofs? Had to get them out of the way. A delay in your communication device? Truly a necessity. And though you had the foresight to add a few men to the abandoned subway tunnel, they neglected to surveil the associated maintenance hatches. So you see, your perfect encapsulation proves to be quite the…" You noticed a slight furrow of his brow as the sentence broke. "Challenge. Now to finish preparing the resin!" Off he galloped, but you swore something was off. A slight change in his mood.

You heard several loud bangs before your captor fell backward through the door. Nightwing loomed over his grisly body. Then his eyes shot up towards you.

"I'm okay." The words were forced from your throat. With those two small words, Nightwing glared down towards the man and began throwing punch after punch. "STOP! Please!" You screamed out the words, shocked at the vigilante's ferocity. Nightwing's eyes slowly shifted towards you. It was as if a twinge of pain ran its way through his body as he crept towards you. Once close enough, his hands carefully cradled your face until finally, he spoke.

"I don't know what I would have done without you. Why did you do something so stupid?" You could tell he wanted to say the words out of anger, yet a euphoric aura surrounded them instead.

Still confused, you began to answer as he unbound your wrists and ankles. "He wasn't going to give up. This was our chance to catch him…"

"I would've found another way!" The words burst out of him louder than expected. Nightwing let out a sigh as he helped you out of the chair.

"Alright, Dick, I'm sorry." You glanced at him for a reaction...nothing. Worried he didn't hear you, you pushed the point further. "Guess I should be glad you weren't in court long."

Dick stopped in his tracks, finally realizing his mistake. "I…uh…left early." As the two of you got outside, there were a dozen cop cars already swarming the area. Two of the officers came up to meet you.

"Detective! Are you alright? What happened?!" The first began to raddle off questions, but Dick quickly deflected.

"You can find out later. I'm taking her to the hospital. Your man is inside, unconscious."

"I can still talk ya'know…" You mumbled as the officer ran off to inform the others of the new information.

"Yeah, but then you'd try to convince me not to take you to the hospital. And that's not going to happen. But don't worry, the captain is on his way there now. You'll get to regale the entire course of events with him."

It was almost scary how well he knew you. "You'll stay too?" The simple question caused an oversize grin to spread across his face, but all he did was simply nod.

[angeli-marco-writes]

Tom Hiddleston - Stripped Sunday

A/N & WC - I came up with this concept ages ago and only just got around to writing it, though it’s slightly short. I do not know Tom, nor do I claim to. 2k.

Warnings - Swearing (that's now just a given), definitely suggestive and nsfw but nowhere near explicit, just mentions of sex, nudity too. And unknowing exhibitionism I guess? 16+

Summary - Sunday's are always the best, especially when you and Tom walk around the house nude, but it's been a while. Too long a while. So, obliviously, you take matters into your own hands...

THOMAS WILLIAM HIDDLESTON IS A SIMPLE MAN, believe it or not. He likes meals he can cook in fifteen minutes, he likes his tea with only a splash of milk, he likes the simple pleasures of nature. He likes morning runs and evening walks, re-watching movies he’s seen a dozen times, cuddles on a cold night. But most of all, he likes it when you walk around nude.

It might just be the one singular thing in the great mystery of life that is inexplicable to him, the one thing he enjoys so bloody much he daren’t speak of it, lest he risk losing it. Just the sight of your beautiful body keeps him up night after night after night when he’s working away, plotting and planning ways to ensure he never forgets it for the second he returns home. He can’t even begin to explain the things it does to him.

So, he set up a Stripped Sunday, with the basic premise that you both have to walk around in your birthday suits all day. It’s essentially his unique, perverse, inventive way of seeing you naked all day once a week. Not every Sunday, naturally, but just on occasion, when he’s not working, he’ll jot it down on the calendar. Nothing too glaring, in case someone catches a glimpse of his calendar, but just scribbling down a winky face in a Sunday space, and you know what you’re in for.

In all honesty, you love it just as much as he does. It’s hard not to. Seeing him walking around the house with not a scrap of clothing on all day does things to you you’ve never been able to put your finger on—or his. If you were to get pregnant, Stripped Sundays would be the culprit with the amount that the two of you shag in a single day. And he always seems to have another round in the bank to wake you the morning after, hungover on dripping lust.

However, it’s been far too long without one of these days, you think to yourself. And you know that there are no plans for the day, seeing as there’s nothing in the diary or the calendar, where—upon Tom’s own decree—all arrangements have to be written down. Seeing as you and Tom have a somewhat secret relationship, one certainly sheltered from the press, and no one knows you’re together, let alone live together, keeping all plans written down is imperative. His work meetings are always good reasons for you to get out of the house for a few hours.

Today, however, Tom seems to have made a mistake. Today’s meeting utterly slipped his mind, and he completely forgot to tell you, let alone jot it down, that he was having a casual meeting with a few co-stars to discuss future production of some sort—of what, he was entirely unsure, since this was texted about weeks ago, now. Nothing too major, though.

Logically, Tom thought that, with how late you were currently sleeping, and how much you enjoy your lie-ins, he’d be wrapped before you woke up, and even if that wasn’t to be the case and you wake up, that you’d have the sense to dress, or even call for him at the very least, before going downstairs.

You aren’t so lucky.

—

Waking up to an empty bed is never much fun. Usually if Tom wakes up before you, he’ll only slip out to put the kettle on, or fetch a new book to read from the library while he waits for you to stir naturally… that is if he isn’t waking you up in other, more pleasurable ways. At most, if he does have plans and doesn’t want to wake you after a late night, he’ll leave you a lovely note, a voicemail, and a thermal mug of tea.

Today, however, you can smell the coffee machine on—no wonder after the late, and rather energetic night you had—and hear the machine whirring, signalling that Tom likely hasn’t long been awake. That’s when the gears begin to turn and your plan begins to formulate, a completely devious idea that creeps into your mind and quirks your lips into a smirk. No matter how enticing the idea to nuzzle back into the pillows is, your need for Tom is overpowering your clawing need for sleep, especially with your primal instincts telling you he’s within grabbing distance, his aftershave still on the sheets you’re wrapped in. So, you strip his shirt, now perpetually appropriated by you, off and get out of bed, stretching as you go, beginning to make your way downstairs.

“What’s that?” Tom hears someone ask.

Not hearing your footsteps on the squeaky stairs over the whirring of the coffee machine and the layered discussions, including his own laughter, he simply replies, “Probably the dog.”

You, however, aren’t lucky enough to hear this brief conversation before your bare feet land on the cold hardwood floor, sending chills throughout you that don’t seem to even mildly combat the overwhelming heat building all throughout you. With just a few more steps, keeping your footing light and avoiding Bobby’s various chewies and toys littered all over the floor, you’re entering the kitchen in nought but your birthday suit. Utterly, completely in the buff.

“Morning baby,” you call out, yawning, your eyes fluttering shut, your jaw wide.

Except, instead of the warm embrace and slatherings of kisses that you expect to receive, or even a simple “Good morning, Princess,” you’re welcomed with a deadly silence, a stillness you can’t quite comprehend.

Your eyes fly open in shock, opening to see three people, mildly familiar faces, with mouths agape and eyes wide, sitting around the breakfast bar with mugs between their hands. Tom looks as stunned as you’ve ever seen him, over by the coffee machine, his hands trembling. With a fixed gaze of his baby blue eyes, so piercingly alarmed, he looks you up and down, his eyes blazing over your nude form, his kissable mouth practically watering at the mere sight of you.

That’s before it clicks with him, the dire situation, and alarm bells begin to blare inside his head, causing him to jump into action. Almost instantly, he’s pulling his shirt off his strong arms and muscular torso with lithe fingers, and is tugging it over your head, covering your naked torso.

You can already feel the blush on your cheeks, your skin burning from the bruised base of your throat to the pierced tips of your ears, the blood in your veins rushing around so violently that it drowns out any other comments or noise within the room, within the situation, but you’re brought back to reality when Tom’s strong, callused hands fall to your arms, clasping the flesh before he’s all but lifting you off the tiled floor and steering you back out of the room. It snicks shut behind you, but all you can focus on is the kiss he gives you, slanting his thin lips over yours so intoxicatingly that you’re able to forget your humongous disaster, if only for a second. There’s an emptiness the second he stops kissing you, and you’re able to hear the previously shut out gossip from inside.

“Sweetheart, what the hell was that?” he commands, his tone soft.

Despite the austere authority he so naturally demands in a room, he doesn’t sound angry whatsoever. If anything he’s just a little exposed, his private home life revealed to people when he wasn’t in the least bit prepared for once in his lifetime, with a definite undertone of irritation, mostly that he can’t have his way with you instantly. His blood is roaring, his stomach an explosion of swarms of butterflies, his core pulsating. He can’t tear his eyes away from you, even now you’re covered, your hardened nipples poking through the fabric.

“I— I saw the calendar was empty, I wanted to impress you, have a nice Sunday because it’s been so long,” you confess, shuffling your feet on the floor, unable to meet his blue gaze boring into you, “I’ve felt… distant from you recently, you’ve been working so much. I don’t know,” you shift anxiously, tugging on his shirt wrapped around you, “I love you, I didn’t wanna lose you. I thought you’d like it.”

“Baby,” he says, “I love you and this so so much. Of course I like it!”

You let out a feeble cry against his chest, his arms knotting around you and tugging you into his chest in one swift movement. His hugs, the way he holds you and cradles you, always make you feel better, no matter what your troubles may be.

You sniffle a little, “Really?”

Any trace of hardness in his face just dissipates and is replaced with sympathy, empathy, love.

“I truly wish I could take you right now, Darling, and if they weren’t here, I’d be fucking you on that breakfast bar and you know it.” He sighs deeply. “But, I didn’t put down a special Sunday for a reason, love.” Leaning down, he kisses away your wry tears, and then the tip of your nose. “You are so thoughtful. It’s all my fault though, I must’ve just forgotten to write this down.”

How can you be mad at him when he’s being so thoughtful and heartfelt, confessing his mistake even when it was your rash thinking that’s gotten you into this mess?

Once you calm your breathing down, though, you realise that you’re actually not particularly phased by this at all. You don’t mind this; it was the sheer shock that passed over Tom’s face, the flash of terror he must’ve felt with his work colleagues in the room with him that scared you so. You know well enough that it’ll be a huge knock—monumental, even—for him, if this gets out. Your worry for your treasured boyfriend takes power over any of your own misgivings.

“I’m really sorry, Tom.”

“Don’t be,” he says hastily, “can you please pop up and get dressed, though, darling? Just some shorts, I don’t want you to feel exposed.”

You let out a soft chuckle, nodding, stepping away from him to make your way upstairs. Before you’ve taken so much as a step, though, he tugs you back by the bottom of his shirt, and ravels you into a searing kiss, everything he wants to say passes from his lips to yours.

—

You return a couple of minutes later, dressed simply, comfortably, his shirt in your hands, you find him waiting for you, standing outside the door with his hands clasped at his front. He greets you with open arms, prompting you to take his hands as he leads you back into the kitchen, your eyes connecting in a secret agreement before stepping inside.

The air is rife with anxiety, three panicked faces staring back at you, but thankfully, you’re able to recognise these people as ones he’s worked with for a while, people he knows really well; confidantes and friends more than co-stars or colleagues. However, by the inquisitive glint in their eyes and their parted mouths, you imagine they’ll still have a lot of questions, and this’ll still be a hit for Tom.

He wraps his spare arm around you, his head bowed as he meets the dead faces staring at him. That’s when you begin to wonder if something else has happened.

“Baby, everything okay?” you ask, cupping his jaw, caressing your thumb over the scruff of a beard shadowing his bone structure.

That’s seemingly when it hits him, his face paling, blanching, his grip around you loosening.

“It’s a good job you never got over the threshold, darling,” he says breathlessly, “or I’d be in much more trouble.”

You look to him, eyes searching his face imploringly as he viciously gulps. “We were live on Instagram.”

“SHIT!”

Well, it looks like Tom’s girlfriend is public knowledge. You can’t mind, though not as he dips his head and kisses you hotly, heartily. With this passion, the second these people leave, Stripped Sunday might just happen after all.

[pluviophile-imagines]

losing my fucking MINDDDDD over your tags….hes the type to make is so clear in the beginning that all it’s ever gonna be is no strings attached…so when that changes and he has to eat his words…delicious.

YOU'RE SO CASUAL ABOUT IT TOO it kills him. like. he's laying in bed, you're getting re-dressed and he's half debating asking if you wanna take a shower at least before you go while stubbornly ignoring the butterflies in his stomach like he's going on a first date rather than watching you fix your hair, and then you drop the bomb.

you say you still wanna be friends, if he wants, because you like him. but you're starting to think about settling down. your best friend just announced she's getting married and a childhood friend is pregnant. you're about to turn 25 and it's been fun but you're looking for something more attached. you really just answered oliver's u up? text because you figure it'll be the last time. it's all so........ casual, the way you say it. practically clinical. kind of unnerving. you've always been like that, though—it's the very reason he initiated this arrangement in the first place—so he tries not to take it too personally. he's the one who'd said he wasn't interested in anything serious, that you should look elsewhere if that's what you want, so he shouldn't be so surprised. he shouldn't feel like you've punched him in the gut. you remind him of his words all those months ago without seeming even a little bit saddened by it; in fact he might call you bemused as you say you know what he wants, who he is, and that you're breaking it off because your mutual desires are no longer so mutual.

what you say as he's seeing you out, however, is the kicker. you tell him you have a date in a week. a colleague from work. seems sweet. taking you to a nice restaurant for dinner. when he shuts the door it feels a little like he's in a daze.

he's still lingering on it hours after you've left, laying in his bed again staring at the ceiling, the same position he'd been in when you'd initially broken the news.

he's not exactly worried about the date, not really. you've been on plenty of dates before and a salaryman isn't really your type. yet he wonders if you've ever thought of him as sweet and he highly doubts it, and for some strange reason that puts a bitter taste in his mouth. and he thinks that if you wanted to go out to dinner you could've asked him to take you. and he wishes you'd text him more about even the stupid mundane stuff in your life, and he wonders how his team would react if he introduced you as his partner instead of just his date at the next charity event, and he thinks about how his bathroom sink might look with a toothbrush for you taking permanent residence on it, and he imagines waking up to you cooking breakfast instead of an empty bed because you've slipped out before daybreak, and the way you call him oli with that little pout is bouncing around uncontrollably in his mind like you've put some kind of fucking spell on him—

he bolts upright in his bed. there's a hairtie on his dresser and he knows it's from you even without looking because, he realizes quite suddenly, he hasn't had anyone else over in months. he hasn't even thought about anyone other than you, not like that. it's only been you for some time.

so maybe you're wrong. maybe he'd been wrong that first night. maybe he wants something more serious, too.

you're probably going to make him get on his knees and beg when he tells you.

[yukidragon]

Our Life Snippet - Lazy Morning Intimacy

So, who’s ready for an extra long serving of shameless fluff from the first draft of my fan novelization of Our Life: Beginnings & Always? My philosophy in writing this is if I can add some more fluffy cuddly moments, I absolutely will, and the Step 3 moment Reflection offers one such opportunity right at the very start before, well, those of you who have played this moment know what happens later.

Spoilers for those who have not played the Step 3 DLC! If you don’t want to be spoiled, don’t read any further! If you don’t mind spoilery stuff, well, don’t let me stop you, but I highly, highly encourage you to play through the game before reading any of this.

As always, thanks go to @gb-patch for their wonderful game and their lovely feedback for my work, as well as everyone who likes, reblogs, and comments on these clips I’m posting here. You are all awesome.  💖

...

It wasn’t often that Jamie had the chance to enjoy breakfast at the Holden house. Ever since their parents decreed that they were ‘too old’ for sleepovers, she and Cove didn’t have many opportunities to enjoy that particular meal together, which made today a rare treat. It wasn’t especially fancy fare, but it was lovely to be able to spend time with her boyfriend almost as soon as she woke up. She was glad she impulsively asked if he wanted to have breakfast with her when they exchanged their usual good morning texts.

After a pleasant meal filled with light conversation and tasty food, Cove invited Jamie to retreat to his room to relax and let the lazy morning linger before any big activities began. That was, if they didn’t just decide to take it easy for the rest of the day. Neither of them had any plans in particular, with no prior commitments with friends, family, or work to distract them from just spending the day together. It wasn’t officially a date day, per say, or at least neither of them called it that yet. So far, they just decided to do whatever came to mind while enjoying each other’s company.

Of course, the first thing that came to Jamie’s mind was to cuddle with her boyfriend. When Cove sat down onto the bed, she didn’t hesitate to take a seat beside him, leaning into him. He hummed happily in approval and looped an arm around her to pull her in even closer.

A mischievous smile tugged at her lips as a new thought came to mind, and Jamie leaned in even closer. Cove raised an eyebrow at expression, only to yelp when she unexpectedly pushed her weight into him and tipped him back onto the bed. She fell along with him, giggling as they tumbled onto the mattress

Cove let out a chuckle of his own once he recovered from his surprise. “When I said we could relax, I didn’t mean going back to bed,” he said with a wry smile. Even still, he allowed her to nudge him gently back to the headboard so that they could both lounge comfortably on the bed properly with their heads resting on the pillows side by side. 

Jamie flashed Cove a satisfied grin before she snuggled up against his side, nuzzling her cheek against his as she basked in his gentle warmth. “You also said to make myself comfortable,” she teased, her eyes sparkling playfully as she rested her arm across his chest. “I’m very comfortable like this.”

Cove felt his heartbeat quicken, and he smiled back fondly at Jamie, nuzzling her cheek in return. “Me too,” he said softly.

Though maybe he was a little too comfortable.

Cove couldn’t help but be aware of the fact that they were both lying in his bed together. A prickling of nerves rose up that he quickly did his best to tamp down to not ruin the intimate moment they were sharing. It was fine, no big deal, he told himself. They were both fully dressed, on top of the sheets, and it was broad daylight. They cuddled plenty of times like this before on sofas and the ground. Heck, this was nothing compared to when they shared a bed when they were younger.

The flickering of nervousness didn’t escape Jamie’s notice. She softened her expression and reached up to gently run her fingers through her shy boyfriend’s hair. She had intended to steal a kiss or two and see where that would take them, but she decided that could wait until later. Just enjoying this moment with Cove was enough for her.

The touch was soothing, and Cove slowly started to relax as he leaned into Jamie. The anxious air that had threatened to pull him out of the moment gradually dissipated as her comforting warmth slowly settled in. Soon, he felt at ease enough to slip his arm back around her, which she happily used as her new pillow. He couldn’t help but smile at seeing the content expression on his partner’s face as she smiled softly back at him.

A comfortable silence washed over the pair as they simply enjoyed the quiet moment of intimacy. At some point, Jamie went from stroking Cove’s hair to toying with it. His ponytail limited her in how much she could card her fingers through his hair, but there were plenty of long locks to ripple between her fingers.

It wasn’t the first time Jamie got the impulse to play with her boyfriend’s hair. Even before he was officially - or even unofficially - her boyfriend, she couldn’t help but want to run her fingers through those pretty pale green strands. When they were younger, Cove would jokingly try to avoid her hands, but always ‘failed’ to escape in the end, allowing her to have her way. Sometimes she teased him back by pretending to give up, and he would always pout adorably, which she would immediately chase away with a satisfying ruffle of his hair.

Occasionally, Jamie would go beyond playing to actual styling. She was no professional, but it was fun to wind her boyfriend’s hair into a braid or two sometimes. Cove never minded, even if the braids rarely lasted that long after she was finished making them. It also didn’t escape her notice that he would sometimes shiver or let out an adorable pleasured little mumble when she raked her fingers along his scalp. It was an enjoyable experience for both of them, and sometimes she suspected that was one of the reasons why he let his hair grow as long as he did.

Jamie had no such grand designs now. Today she simply basked in the freedom to enjoy the feeling of his soft hair sliding between her fingers as she listened to the happy noises her partner occasionally let slip.

Although much more at ease, Cove couldn’t help the small traces of nervous energy that left him with the need to do something with his hands. He ran his thumb across her shoulder with the hand that was limited by Jamie resting on the upper part of his arm. With his freer hand, he decided to return the favor she paid to him and ran his fingers through her long deep blue hair, starting with stroking back her bangs before sliding his hand down along the entire length of her hair until he reached the ends at her hips. The feeling was soft and silky, and she sighed softly at the attention.

On impulse, Cove poked one of the small buns on top of his girlfriend’s head. Space buns were her preferred hairstyle of choice nowadays, and there was something satisfying about poking them that he couldn’t quite explain. Maybe it was the feel of them, or the way the bunched up hair bounced when poked that did it, but most likely it was because of the amused looks Jamie gave him whenever he did. She wore one such expression now, and he couldn’t help but chuckle a bit before giving her bun another playful poke.

Entertained, Jamie let Cove have her way with her buns, poking and prodding them as he pleased. The potential for innuendo wasn’t lost on her, but she let it go unsaid. As fun as it would be to make him flustered by suggesting that he might enjoy playing with a different set of buns she had even more, she didn’t want to interrupt the light, playful moment.

Jamie would just save that little bit of wordplay for later, preferably when the mood was good enough that Cove might take her up on the invitation.

Despite the steamy thoughts that skirted through her mind, Jamie did her best to focus on enjoying the lazy moment between them. It was lovely to just share such casual intimacy with Cove.

Jamie wasn’t alone in trying to ignore her more hormonal urges. As much as Cove enjoyed playing with her hair, focusing on touching her as he did made it impossible for him to stop thinking about the fact that they were both lying on his bed together. He was keenly aware of the gentle warmth of her body pressed against him, how soft and inviting her pink lips looked as she smiled at him.

Eventually, Cove realized he needed something else to occupy his hands if he didn’t want to risk disrupting the peaceful moment. Shifting about a bit, he fished his cell phone out of his pocket. Although Jamie raised an eyebrow at that and at being displaced from her cozy spot when he moved around, she held no objections as he turned his phone on and busied himself with it. Instead, she simply readjusted her position to get comfortable once he was settled again.

Sifting through missed texts and emails, Cove soon managed to distract himself from the urges that ruffled his nerves and relaxed back into the moment. He spotted a number of texts he missed from his dad, and for a moment he wondered if everything was okay until he realized Cliff just sent him a bunch of images last night.

A warm smile graced his face as Cove slowly scrolled his way through the photographs, nostalgia washing over him. Each photo brought him back to the moment it was taken, allowing him to lose himself in the priceless memories he shared with his friends, family, and especially the special person he held so comfortably close at that very moment.

Some photos brought back sweet memories, others a little more on the bitter side of sweet, and then there were the funnier ones. One such silly photo seized Cove’s attention, and he couldn’t help the burst of laughter that escaped him.

The sound immediately snapped Jamie out of her relaxed stupor and brought her back to the present. She raised an eyebrow at Cove, but he failed to notice her questioning look, too preoccupied by whatever was on his phone’s screen.

“What’s so funny?” Jamie asked as she propped herself up on her arm to get a better look at his face and catch a glimpse of the phone’s screen.

Cove finally turned to look at Jamie, his eyes crinkled with mirth and a smirk playing on his lips. “Dad scanned some old photos,” he chuckled. “You know…”

Now that Jamie was no longer using his arm as a pillow, Cove was free to use it to draw a rectangle in the air. “Printed out ones,” he explained, “back from when I was little.” He waved his phone a bit with his other hand. “He texted it all to me last night, I guess. I’ve been checking them out.”

Jamie sat up completely, her dark blue eyes flying open wide. “You were looking at your kiddie photos and didn’t tell me?!” she gasped, almost scandalized at missing out on something so priceless.

Cove barely resisted the urge to chuckle, offering Jamie a bent smile as his eyes narrowed playfully. “I was gonna show you.” His gaze then slid away to his phone as his expression turned a little more hesitant. “I just wanted to look at it first to make sure there was nothing super embarrassing. You never know with my dad.”

His mouth pulled into a grimace as Cove could easily imagine all sorts of horrors his dad might have captured on film to unintentionally humiliate him until the end of time. “I mean… what if there’s a photo of me getting potty trained or something?”

Although Jamie empathized with his worries, she couldn’t help but giggle at the fraught expression Cove wore. “Yeah, that sounds like something your dad would do.”

Cove could only respond by clearing his throat nervously, his eyes skirting away from Jamie as he sat up as well. While he hadn’t come across any particularly humiliating photo of himself, he couldn’t quite shake the fear of what his dad’s well-meaning actions might have left for him to deal with this time.

Jamie offered her boyfriend a sympathetic smile before adding a slight bent to it. “Hey, how about this - if you let me look at your embarrassing baby photos, I’ll show you just as many of mine. My moms have plenty of them.”

The offer was tempting. Cove couldn’t help but wonder what sort of photos Jamie had in mind, but the price was just too steep. He merely chuckled awkwardly and shook his head as he pointedly kept his phone tilted away from her. She huffed and puffed out her cheeks in a mock pout at him for holding out on her, which elicited a genuine bout of laughter from him.

Once Cove got his mirth under control, he smiled at Jamie. “Anyway, before we forget, I was laughing ‘cause I came across a Halloween one from when I was eight. The year I was a zombie, remember?”

Jamie dropped her faux pout and nodded, her eyes lighting up eagerly. Cove shook his head at her excitement, a wry grin gracing his face as he finally offered the phone to her.

As Cove watched Jamie eagerly turn to his phone, he couldn’t help but shake his head again, this time at his kid self. “I never even liked zombies!” he said, a little baffled that he ever was so enthusiastic for such a costume. “All I wanted was to show off my new scar. And I needed to be something scary. I couldn’t be a normal person who had a scar, according to my eight-year-old mind.”

The photo displayed on the screen showed Cove from ten years in the past, and a pleasant wave of nostalgia washed over Jamie as she saw him the way he looked when they first met, minus the pink cast and plus a fair amount of makeup and fake blood. Little Cove posed for the camera with his fingers hooked like claws, his mouth open as though letting out what was probably supposed to be a fierce roar. She could easily remember the noises he made that night as he pretended to be a zombie on the hunt for brains. His hair looked even more wild and disheveled than it did after the most energetic day of play, going well with the tattered and ‘blood’ stained button up shirt he wore. His face was painted in gray down to his neck, marred with an array of fake scars that couldn’t compare to the real one on his arm.

Cove looked from Jamie to the phone and chuckled softly at the face his younger self pulled for the camera. “I was a little dork.”

Jamie eyed Cove at such self-depreciation before poking him on the nose. “You were a little cutie,” she insisted. “And now you’re a big cutie.”

Cove blinked at the playful action before blushing at the compliment. He had no words to reply to it except for a quiet, flustered chuckle as he rubbed his nose.

Jamie grinned at that reaction before turning back to the photo. As much as she enjoyed how adorable Cove looked while pretending to be a fierce monster, it was impossible to ignore the scar displayed so predominantly on his arm at that time. Her smile softened at the edges at the sight of such a large, jagged line of fresh skin that was such a deep and angry shade of red. The scar was a pale memory in the present, but back then it looked so painful, and at the time she found it hard not to worry about him and his comfort after his cast came off.

Still, Jamie refused to let that put a damper on the story and focused instead on just how much fun little Cove was having posing for the camera and remembering the way they played around with their costumes that night. She could vividly recall how she pretended to run away from him when he playfully growled that he wanted to eat her brains, and the memory made her smile grow stronger.

“Dad really wanted to be useful, as usual,” Cove said, bringing Jamie’s attention back to him in the present. Though he noticed the flicker of sadness that crossed her face and realized the reason for it, he was glad to see her perk up again just as quickly. “He came up with the idea of being an undead person. It was pretty good, huh?”

Jamie chuckled softly and nodded. “You had the best Halloween costume that year, hands down,” she said playfully. “I remember you getting lots of extra candy when adults realized the scar was real.” Her smile widened as she remembered just how jealous Lizzie had been at how much candy Cove got that year, especially since he only offered to share some of that extra candy with Jamie. “It must have been your greatest Halloween haul ever.”

Cove couldn’t help but chuckle as well as he thought back to that legendary candy haul as well. It took him a month to finish it all even with Jamie’s help.

Still, the topic of his scar brought his gaze back to the picture. Cove couldn’t help but compare the way it looked in the photo to its current appearance on his left arm. “I can’t believe how much larger my scar used to be,” he said quietly.

Jamie watched as Cove turned his focus to his arm with a soft smile on his face. He traced his fingers along the jagged line of pale flesh that remained with him even ten years on. It was an action that she had seen him do countless times, but it felt more significant in that moment.

A soft sigh escaped Cove, but his eyes and tone were playful. “Look at how tiny it is now.” He gave Jamie a look with big, pathetic eyes. “How am I gonna pretend to be tough without a big scar?”

It was a struggle for Jamie not to laugh at the expression Cove wore. “You better not do anything stupid to get a new scar,” she joked with a faux disapproving frown as she wagged a finger at him. “No matter how much you like them!”

Cove grinned back at Jamie. “I won’t.”

“Good,” Jamie said with a satisfied nod. “You’ve already got the coolest scar, no matter how small it gets.”

Cove felt his cheeks grow warm and his smile turned bashful. “Thanks.” He ducked his head away from Jamie, pleased with their joking exchange. Once again, his eyes drifted down to his scar as he continued to trace it.

“I really do like having this,” he admitted in a soft, shy voice. “Even if it is kind of little these days.”

Jamie’s expression softened as well, feeling as though Cove was sharing a big secret with her. She couldn’t help but feel happy to hear that he liked his scar despite whatever pain it must have caused him to get it. It was always wonderful whenever he opened up to her like this.

Cove glanced up at Jamie, a gentle smile gracing his lips. “I like yours, too.”

The unexpected compliment caught Jamie off guard, and heat rose in her cheeks, turning them pink. She couldn’t help but smile as she felt her chest flutter with butterflies. He never failed to think of her as well, especially since he knew that she was self-conscious of her own scars.

Unthinkingly, Jamie brought her hand up to her upper arm and traced some of the countless jagged little white lines that marred her pale skin. There were matching scars in the same place on her other arm, as well as her thighs and her chest. Unlike Cove, these scars were not the result of an accident, but her skin not being able to keep up with her sudden growth during puberty.

Back during her early teenage years when the stretch marks were fresh and an angry purplish-red, Jamie always kept them hidden. Puberty had been rough on her, dealing a blow to her self-esteem as well as her body, and being covered in so many scars left her feeling ugly even though she never once thought of Cove’s scar like that.

It took time for Jamie to accept her scars, and she knew that Cove was a big part of why. Seeing the way he took such quiet pride in his scar always made her question how she thought of hers. More than that, he always made her feel beautiful, and he was always the first to remind her  whenever she needed it. That was why she was no longer afraid to wear clothes that exposed her scars like she did now.

Jamie scooted in closer to Cove as she smiled adoringly at him, placing her hand on top of his. “Thank you, Cove.”

Cove turned back to face Jamie fully. He finally let go of his scar so that he could take her hand in hers, giving it a gentle squeeze. He felt at peace with his scar and was happy to see the same reflected on her face as well. Their scars held such meaning to them despite coming from unhappy sources.

Jamie squeezed his hand back as she drifted even closer. “Could I touch your scar?”

Cove blinked, taken aback by the request. Usually, Jamie wasn’t shy about touching him without asking first, particularly someplace as innocent as his arm. Still, he quickly realized why she might hesitate to do that now and smiled gently at her as he nodded easily. “Yeah, that’s okay.”

Jamie gave Cove’s hand one more squeeze before letting go of it. Lightly, she pressed her fingertips against the edges of his scar. With great care, she slowly ran her thumb along the entire length of it, following the jagged angles the old wound took. The pale flesh was rough when compared to the rest of his skin, which was soft, but with goosebumps rising quickly along his arm as she stroked his scar.

The touch, so delicate and gentle, left Cove feeling a bit lightheaded. Jamie’s touch always felt wonderful and often left him feeling butterflies, but somehow the feel of her paying such careful attention to his scar was particularly powerful. A choked breath escaped him and a wobbly smile played across his face as he lost himself in the feeling.

The dizzied smile Cove wore along with the light pink of his cheeks drew Jamie in with the urge to do more. She locked eyes with him, staring deep into his aquamarine eyes as she took a hold of his arm and raised it up towards her.

A quiet gasp escaped Cove when she realized what Jamie had in mind. He couldn’t look away from her dark blue eyes as she stared so intently into him even as she placed a soft kiss on the old wound that marked him. The feeling of her lips, warm and soft, pressed so tenderly against that particular place sent shivers up his spine, and he let out a tiny squeak.

Jamie smiled against Cove’s skin as she appreciated his adorable reaction, as well as the way he looked at her with overwhelming adoration. She kissed him again and again, tracing the entire length of his scar with her lips like she did with her fingers before.

It was impossible for Cove to stay still when Jamie was showing him such affection. He reached up with his free hand to touch her arm. With his thumb, he brushed aside the edge of her open sleeve, giving him better access to the countless little white lines marking her pale skin. The texture was interesting, feeling so similar yet so different from his own scar. Because of their size and number, he found his fingers constantly alternating between soft skin and rougher tissue. It was difficult to trace any one scar from start to finish like she did for him, so instead he sought out to touch every single one.

The touch was electric, and Jamie could feel her heartbeat speed up as Cove caressed her so lovingly. “Cove…”

Cove shivered again as Jamie murmured his name against his skin, setting off sparks that made his body burn pleasantly. It urged him to lean forward, his eyes gleaming with the fire she set ablaze inside him.

Jamie raised her head and instinctively matched his movement, drawing nearer to Cove as her eyes drifted closed. She felt his lips gently meet hers, and she melted into the tender kiss. She held a little more firmly onto his arm as she fell deeper into him, feeling like she might drown in the depths of her feelings for him.

Cove all too quickly lost himself in the moment and in Jamie. It felt so wonderful, so right to be her like this, to touch and kiss her. He loved her so much that it was almost overwhelming, but knowing that she loved him as well kept him grounded.

Eventually they finally drifted apart, breathless and dazed from the kiss, their faces flushed with heat. When Jamie opened her eyes, she saw Cove gazing back at her with his mesmerizing ocean blue eyes. The look he gave her was spellbinding, filled with so much love and adoration that made her heart hammer hard against her ribcage. It told her without words that the feelings he had for her were just as immense as hers were for him.

Cove leaned in again, this time resting his forehead gently against Jamie’s. With heavy lidded eyes, he simply enjoyed gazing deeply into her blue eyes that always reminded him of the night sky. No matter how many times he saw them, they always captivated him. He could lose himself in those beautiful eyes of hers.

The feeling of his warm breath tickling her skin made Jamie shiver a little, especially the way it brushed against her lips like the ghost of a kiss. With their heads touching, his hand on her arm and hers on his, she felt entirely entwined with Cove. It felt so right.

Time ceased to have any meaning in that moment as they gazed deeply into their partner’s eyes and drank in the closeness and warmth they shared. Seconds or minutes might have passed, but neither of them cared as they lost themselves in each other.

[suimin-chan]

Blue Exorcist short story Bon/Rin

_____

Ryuji sat at the chabudai across from his mom and dad as they ate breakfast in the washitsu. They normally ate with the rest of the household, but sometimes his mom or dad would insist that they just spend quality family time together. So they would sit together in the little family room that overlooked his mom's personal garden. His dad would watch the morning news on the little outdated television that had once belonged to Ryuji's grandfather.

Ryuji stirred his egg into his rice a little more, paying more attention to his parents than his breakfast. He had skipped his morning run to spend time with them. They weren't getting any younger, and his obsessive need to be fit, or to over study seemed a little less important than spending time with them. He could see more lines in their faces that hadn't been there when he was younger. Years of hard work and stress, especially the recent battle, had aged them further. Worrying about him probably hadn't helped much. He was likely the cause of the silver hairs his mom was now sporting around her temples.

Tatsuma chuckled and drew Ryuji's attention back to him. His mother glanced over fondly before turning back to whatever was on the tv that had entertained them. Taking a bite of his morning rice, he studied his dad from beneath his lashes. Not wanting to be caught staring like a creep. His dad looked a bit thinner, but many people did lately. There had been too much to do and not enough time to eat the past month. His jinbei hung loosely over shoulders and arms that used to be strong enough to lift Ryuji high in the air as a child.

It made him feel a bit dysphoric knowing that he was now taller and stronger than his father. The child in him rebelling against his dad being anything but the strongest of shields. But that's how it is for every child allowed to watch their parents grow old. That thought took his mind deeper into pondering and led him to Rin. More specifically, Rin's father; Fugimoto Shiro.

What would he had been like if he had lived and gotten to see Rin come to his full potential. Would he have supported all the decisions Rin made, or would he have acted as Rin's reins, holding him back from stupid decisions? Could he have helped Yukio? Would he support Rin as a bisexual and accept his and Ryuji's relationship? A relationship Ryuji was currently hiding from his parents.

They didn't know he was gay. Any time dating or girls, especially girls Ryuji knew, was brought up; he simply stated that he was too busy to worry about such frivolous things. That he won't be tempted by Mara and has more self control than other hormonal teenagers. But the truth is that he learned when he was thirteen that he preferred boys over girls and that gradually any desires for the opposite sex faded away and became more of an appreciation for how soft and pretty they were. But nothing more than that.

There probably is no good reason for Ryuji to be hiding this from his family, other than cowardice. His father is Buddhist and has no negative feelings towards homosexuality, that he knew of. And other than his mother wanting grandchildren, she likely wouldn't have issues either. And it wasn't like Tatsuma was like his own father, a man Ryuji had only met as a newborn. His grandfather was said to be a hard man, with very little love or empathy in him. Bearing the secret of the temple had hardened his heart. Which is why he could so casually talk of replacing Ryuji and his mother if they had died from the miasma. A man who beloved in harsh discipline over talking things through. A man his mother would likely have killed if he had lived to ever put his hands on Ryuji in anger. It's why Tatsuma refused to ever lift his hand in anger towards those he loved and respected. Though he was only a man and despite trying his best to be calm and rational, he still would lose his temper at times. Mostly at Ryuji over his life's decisions.

Which is why Ryuji hesitated to come out to him. What if it sparked an argument? There have only been a few times his father had lost his temper enough to argue with him. Once when he was a child and ran away from home to live at the abandoned temple. He knows now why he wasn't allowed to wander freely there. And why Tatsuma was angry at him for hiding there. Then was when he proclaimed he was going to be an exorcist and go to True Cross. His father wanted him to pick a life away from demons and violence. And then there was the battle when his dad had screamed and begged for him to leave and go home to where it was safe. That had been a nasty fight and his dad had actually slapped him. Ryuji used the moment of shock to rush back into the thick of it to where he knew Light to be. They had both been worried sick about the other, especially when his dad had cornered Toudo and Ryuji showed up to lend a hand. They had fought for days when they went home. Arguing over whether or not Ryuji was too young to have been there. They still haven't come to an agreement, but they've put it aside for now. What's done is done. Though his dad still looks at him with such a painful expression, almost like he's in mourning.

He doesn't want to argue anymore. And maybe it won't come to that. But how would his dad react to him dating a half demon? Sure he likes Rin, but will that fondness stay when the truth comes out. Tatsuma has been trying to keep Ryuji away from demons for ages, how will he react to him dating one of the most controversial halflings to ever exist?

"Thinking too hard to eat Ryuji?"

Blinking up from his now cold meal, he met his dad's fond yet tired eyes. He hadn't realized he had stopped eating, or how long his parents had been watching him. So much for spatial awareness. Stuffing a cold bite in his mouth, he chewed fast and shrugged. Once he swallowed he spoke up. "Just zoned out for a second. Too much mental organizing I guess."

His mom sighed and shook her head. "You really are a bad liar Ugi. Worry was written all over your face."

Shit.

He fumbled for a believable excuse. Renzou says the best lies come from partial truths. "Course I'm worried. Been so busy that I haven't had much time to study for the next semester. And if I've been slacking, then that means Renzou and Rin have been too, and I'm the one that has to drill everything into those thick skulls." So much truth that it was depressing. Why was he just know remembering all the studying and tutoring that he was going to have to do? Would Shura let him get drunk and cry on her boobs?

His dad leaned back and looked over to all the pictures of the family, past and present situated on the floating bookshelf. Sighing, his dad rubbed at his face as he focused on the picture of his own parents next to some baby pictures of Ryuji. "You used to tell me everything when you were small. Nothing was too big or small for you to tell me, and you absolutely hated secrets. I wonder when that changed."

Obviously Ryuji wasn't believed.

His mom caressed his dad's face, drawing his attention to her and letting Ryuji get a better look at his forlorn expression. "Children grow up love." She sighed, like it was the most awful thing ever. "I'm sure all boys have things that they don't want to tell their parents." She chuckled and smiled coyly at her husband. "I for one would not have dared tell my parents about you sneaking over to pay me visits at night."

Oh my gosh! TMI! Kill him now! Eeeew! Gross!

His dad chuckled. "I'm surprised Ryuji wasn't conceived sooner as much as I could t keep my hands off you."

Ryuji screeched and buried his face in his hands. "Are you trying to kill me?" He squawked.

His mother giggled and reached over to pat his head. "Just lightening the mood dear."

Peering through his fingers he found that despite the soft smile on his dads lips, his eyes were still worried. And he hated that. There should be no reason for his dad to look like that, especially not over him.

Sighing he lifted his head and folded with his fingers, looking everywhere but them. "I don't keep secrets, at least nothing that's not life or death or not mine. But I do... avoid saying things because I'm a chicken."

"Ryuji." His dad whispered. He heard the shift of cloth before a solid presence sat beside him and strong calloused hands took his own. "If I have ever made you feel like you couldn't tell me things out of fear, I'm sorry."

Ryuji looked up upon hearing his dad's choked voice and saw tears in warm brown eyes. Shaking his head, he cleared his throat. "M'not scared of ya. Just don't want you to get angry or be disappointed." Ryuji confessed. It would break his heart if they were angry or disappointed in who he chose to love.

"We would never be disappointed in you baby." His mother consoled, settling into his other side and combing her thin fingers through his hair. "Angry will depend on what you did. If you did anything to be angry over."

This was it. He was going to come out. Leaning forward he pressed his face into his dad's shoulder. Those strong hands never let go of his. "I'm gay. And dating Rin. I asked him out during the battle and he said yes. Had a crush on him most of the year. Known I was gay for a long time. And I just- I just didn't want to disappoint ya. And I was conflicted cuz I want to rebuild the temple and pass it on to my own kids, but I wanna be with guys. And I knew ya would tell me to forget about the temple and do what makes me happy. But the temple is what makes me happy. And I want kids. But I want a husband. And and I know I'm young and it's too soon to be thinking on this, but Rin, Rin might be the one. And and, please don't hate me."

He was sobbing, it all just burst out of him. Years of worry and self doubt and not feeling good enough or like he was betraying his temple by not wanting a wife just spilled out and into his dad's shoulder.

And still those hands held his. And his mom never took her hands from out of his hair. His dad softly chanted, a soft chant for peace of mind and calmness. Gently holding his hands and leaning his his chin on top of Ryuji's head. A soft kiss on his ear from his mom.

He felt safe. Safer than he had in years. And he knew without the words being spoken yet, that he was accepted. That all of him was accepted.

[obeyme-kaidii-writes]

Belonging

Mammon x gn!MC

Words - 4606

Content warnings - lots of angst, insecure MC, Mammon is an ass at first ‘cause he’s a tsundere

Prompt/inspiration - self indulgent comfort piece

Summary - That one time when Mammon’s tsundere tendencies broke your heart.

AO3

You had been so stupid. So foolish. So naive.

When you first met Mammon, he took your breath away. You had never seen someone just so...beautiful. It was an honest to goodness love at first sight moment, something that you didn’t even believe possible until then. Yeah he seemed a little harsh, but you convinced yourself it was just because he was shy and easily embarrassed. As soon as he got to know you better, you were sure he’d calm down a bit and open up to you.

It was slow going though. Just when you had started thinking you had finally managed to become friends with him, something would happen that would send you back to square one again. For every step forward you took, you would inevitably take 3 steps back.

But after a while, things did eventually seem to be going your way. He’d come over for movie nights. You were allowed to hang out in his room. He no longer stuttered out excuses when he would walk you to and from RAD. You had started to feel comfortable. Like maybe everything in your shitty life up until now might have actually been worth it because finally, FINALLY you had someone who genuinely enjoyed being around you.

Until today, that is, when you were not-so-gently reminded of your place.

The night began like any other Friday evening - a movie night with Mammon, Beel, and Levi. Everyone had gathered in Mammon’s room, snacks were plentiful, and you were getting to sit next to Mammon. As the movie progressed, you casually adjusted your position so that you could hold his hand. But as soon as your palm touched his and he realized what you were doing, he pulled back and yelled at you.

“What the hell are ya doing?!”

If it wasn’t for the look on his face, you would have sworn he was embarrassed. Instead, there was no doubt in your mind just how disgusted he was at the idea of you touching him. You didn’t notice when the movie was paused. Or when the lights were turned on. All you could see were his eyes boring into yours. Looking like he wanted to vomit on the spot at the very idea of having ever been close to you.

“Umm...I...just…” you stumbled over your words, unsure what to say. What could you even say? He knew you had tried to hold his hand. And that’s all there was to it. You made a move, the wrong one, and he rejected you.

“Sorry...I’ll umm...just go…” was all you managed to finally get out, as you made a mad dash to your room. Your cheeks were burning with shame, and tears pricking at your eyes.

How could you have been so arrogant? Thinking someone could actually be interested in a person like you. This wasn’t your home. These weren’t your friends. They weren’t your family. You didn’t belong here. You didn’t belong anywhere. You had let yourself get comfortable, indulging your delusions and fantasies and ignoring all the many warning signs that you weren’t actually wanted here.

Even though Mammon was your official Guardian, the rest of the brothers still did their part to make sure you survived your year in one piece. And you had mistaken this courtesy as actual kindness. If anyone had been nice to you, it was out of obligation or pity. You were so desperate to believe you had finally found a place of your own that you let yourself be tricked into thinking demons would actually care about you.

You should have known better. It’s not like you hadn’t had this experience before. People who tolerated you and then at the first available opportunity cut you from their lives. You knew there was something wrong with you, there had to be, for as many times as this had happened. But since no one stuck around very long at all, you honestly had no idea what that might be. If someone would have just told you, you would have fixed it.

By the time you had made it to the safety of your room, your tears had already started to fall in large, heavy drops. You didn’t make a sound. You were too numb to even sob. You just laid down on your bed, facing the wall, and cried. If you could even call it crying. It was more like tears just poured from your eyes. You didn’t even know it was possible to cry that many tears, yet here you were - soaking your pillow, unable to stop the flow.

At some point, you had managed to get your breathing under control. And then, even your tears dried up. You turned to lay on your back, staring at the ceiling and trying to figure out where you should go from here. You still had to make it through the rest of the year, and you had to find some way of doing that peacefully. Maybe if you talked to Lucifer he would assign you a different Guardian? You didn’t really want a different Guardian though, but you doubted you would be able to emotionally handle spending any more time with Mammon. Especially since every time you closed your eyes you could still see that look on his face.

After weighing your options you decided the only thing for you to do really was to put on a happy face. You’d be polite to anyone that talked to you, but you were going to be smart this time. You were going to keep your distance. Not just from Mammon, but from everyone else too.

There was no point in giving yourself the chance to believe you actually could make any friends here. Doubtless it would end up the same way. So you were going to do the minimum - go to RAD, come back to your room, and stay in your room until it was time to leave for RAD again, only leaving with the exception of meal times. No more movie nights, or gaming tournaments, or shopping trips, or restaurant tours. You were just going to keep to yourself and...survive.

————

Breakfast the following morning was oddly quiet. Beel, Mammon, and Levi kept exchanging looks, but you pretended you didn’t notice and just focused on your meal. You had found a comfortable sense of numbness since the previous night, and had now more or less come to terms with the fact you weren’t wanted here and had gotten carried away.

Lucifer had needed to head out a bit earlier to attend a before school meeting with Lord Diavolo, so you asked if you could walk with him instead. He raised an eyebrow at your unexpected request, but thankfully didn’t ask any additional questions. Of all the brothers he was actually the one you were most comfortable with at the moment. Probably because you never had any doubts about the fact he wasn’t overly fond of you.

When classes had ended for the day, you realized that you would need to walk home with Mammon. But after a full day of perfecting your “nice” smile, and mastering how to behave “politely” without taking things personally, you felt better prepared to handle it than you had that morning. Mammon seemed nervous, blushing and fidgeting most of the way. Any other day, you would have asked him what was wrong, but now you were committed to keeping your distance so you ignored him.

Once you arrived back at the House of Lamentation, however, he finally started talking to you before you had a chance to hide away in your room again.

“Uhh...about last night...I…”

“It’s fine, Mammon,” you said, smiling your best, bright smile, “I’m sorry for making you uncomfortable.”

“That’s...I was jus’ surprised is all…”

“Then I’m sorry for surprising you.”

“So umm...do you wanna...try again...maybe…?”

For the briefest moment, your smile faltered. You were quick to correct it, but of course Mammon noticed that split second of hesitation before you answered.

“No thank you. It was nice of you to offer though. But I don’t think I’ll be going to movie night anymore, so you really don’t have to worry about me.”

“Huh? That’s not what I was...this wasn’t about the movie…!”

You gave Mammon another perfect, reassuring smile before leaving him in the entryway, flustered beyond belief at what just happened. He could understand that you might not have known what he was asking right away, but to say you didn’t want to go to movie night at all? That seemed like a bit of an overreaction. Not to mention the fact that the entire conversation just seemed...weird. You were smiling too much for one thing, and he really didn’t like it. He enjoyed making you smile, but this just wasn’t right.

And he couldn’t just let that go.

No sooner had you sat down at the table in your room to begin on your assignments, than the door was flung open as Mammon barged in. You stared at him, stunned, unable to grasp why he had followed you to your room. When he saw you looking at him, he once again got flustered, but was quick to recover this time - he was on a mission.

“Look I know I yelled at ya and all, but that ain’t a reason to skip movie night. Who's gonna feed Beel? Or make sure Levi doesn’t put on those weird anime movies with the tentacles and shit?”

“I’m sure you’ll manage. You had to have worked things out somehow before I arrived. You don’t need to try to include me,” you replied, turning your back to Mammon so you could focus on your work.

“Movie night was your idea! Ya can’t just quit!”

“I said it’s fine,” you could feel your frustration building in your chest. You had wanted to do this peacefully, but Mammon was so stubborn, more stubborn than you had anticipated given his reaction to you yesterday.

“It ain’t fine!”

“Leave it alone, Mammon,” you snapped, stopping what you were doing as you tried to calm yourself down again. You weren’t going to let him get to you. He’d wear himself out and lose interest eventually. You just needed to be patient until he realized he didn’t have to entertain you anymore.

“How can I leave it alone? I’ve said worse stuff to ya before and you haven’t acted like this.”

“I know when I’m not wanted. It’s fine.”

You weren’t about to open up and confide in him all your worries and fears. Even if he was asking out of politeness, you knew he wouldn’t really want to hear about that stuff anyways. He barely tolerated your physical presence, there wasn’t any way he’d want to be burdened with your emotional baggage too.

Mammon was silent for a while after that. He didn’t know what to say, or how to explain. He knew he had fucked up. Badly. It wasn’t that he didn’t want you next to him. He did. More than he’d care to admit. Which was actually part of the problem. He didn’t want to admit he cared. Because admitting he cared would mean you could reject him. If you weren’t aware of his feelings, then you would just be stuck with him, and that was good enough for him. It had to be.

At least it had been up until now. Now, Mammon feared if he didn’t say something, anything, he’d lose any chance at ever talking to you again.

“...I wanted ya there…” he finally whispered, so quietly you almost didn’t hear it.

“You don’t mean that.”

“Yeah I do!” he said, much louder than he had spoken before. Couldn’t you tell he was trying to say that he liked you? That he enjoyed your company? Did you really have to argue with him about it?

“...whatever,” you said with a sigh as you began to open your school books.

“Hey! Listen to me will ya!? I’m trying to say I like you!”

You flinched at Mammon’s sudden declaration.

“And you expect me to believe that?” you replied, your tone laced with venom. You knew what was coming next - his inevitable backpedaling that he always did. Where he made excuses and belittled you and made sure to crush any hope you may have had that he actually liked you in any capacity because the idea of anyone thinking he actually had a soft spot for you was apparently absolutely appalling.

“Why wouldn’t you?! You should feel honored and…!”

“Why wouldn’t I?? Seriously?? You’re asking me that?”

You turned in your seat to glare at Mammon, angry tears gathering at the corners of your eyes. Did he seriously think so little of you that he just expected you to believe whatever you told him?

“I dunno Mammon, maybe it’s because ever since I got here you made a point to remind me what a burden I am and how much trouble I cause. Maybe it’s because you constantly dump me on your brothers to avoid your responsibilities. Maybe it’s because every time I try to be nice to you, you push me away and make me feel stupid for even trying. But hey, what do I know? I’m just the dumb human, right?”

By now your tears had started to fall, but you couldn’t even be bothered to dry them. You finally had the chance to get everything off your chest that had been building since you were dragged down to the Devildom and you didn’t feel like stopping anytime soon. Your rational thoughts had long since flown, and all that was left was your extremely hurt, angry, emotional self that was bound and determined to make sure Mammon knew just how much pain he had caused you.

Mammon, for his part, was completely dumbfounded. Personally, he thought he had been doing alright trying to get to know you. He wasn’t used to people actually being nice to him for one thing, so he was always so suspicious whenever you were.

But what he hadn’t realized though, was how genuine all your advances had been, and how much he had hurt you in trying to protect himself.

“I-I-I…”

“I’m not the sort of person anyone likes. I know that. So whatever joke it is you’re trying to pull, just stop it already!”

“I ain’t messin’ around!”

“What are you not understanding here??” you yelled, slamming your hands down on your desk as you stood up to face Mammon, “I don’t connect with people. I’m never the one that gets picked. So just stop it ok?! I don’t know what Lucifer threatened you with…”

“He didn’t threaten me with anything!”

“Oh please, like you actually want to spend any time with me.”

“Of course I do! That’s what I’ve been tryin’ to tell ya!”

“...you don’t mean that. No one ever means that.” You crossed your arms, hugging yourself tightly, averting your gaze. Your anger had started to fade and all that was left was an overwhelming sense of sadness.

“Why do ya keep saying that?”

“Because it’s true. It’s just what happens. Whatever it is that lets people make friends, I don’t have it. I always think I do, but it never works out. So why would this time be any different? I just...I can’t do this again.”

“What? Why not?”

“Because I love you!” you shouted, having finally reached the end of your patience with Mammon’s endless questions. This wasn’t how you had wanted to tell him. But you didn’t know what else to say at this point because nothing else seemed to be getting through to him.

Cautiously, Mammon took a step forward. Then another. Until he was standing right in front of you. You kept your eyes trained on the ground, refusing to look up. You didn’t want to see the look on his face. Not after you had just confessed to him. It had been bad enough when he yelled at you for holding his hand, and you were sure seeing him now would kill you.

But, Mammon didn’t force the issue. Instead, he slowly reached out for your hands, carefully twining your fingers together as he lowered his head to rest it against yours.

“...do ya mean that?”

“Of course I do,” you mumbled, “But it doesn’t matter. It never matters. I’m not good at this stuff.” You rubbed your fingers over Mammon’s hands, playing with his rings as you tried to distract yourself from the conversation you were having. Your heart was hammering in your chest, and you were so nervous you couldn’t stand it. It almost didn’t seem real to you, to have him standing so close to you, willingly touching you. Perhaps that’s why you weren’t shying away from being honest about your feelings and why you were letting yourself touch him like you were. If it was all only a dream, it didn’t matter anyways.

“It matters to me...I like ya too. A whole lot. And...I’m sorry for makin’ ya feel anything different. It’s just…” Mammon hesitated. This was the most honest he had been with another being in centuries, and his instincts to pull away and run were still strong. But you had been honest with him, and after all the hurt he caused you, it was probably the absolute least he could do.

“It’s just...I know how it feels. Ta not be wanted. And I uh...didn’t trust ya at first. I thought...you would be like my brothers and were just mocking me…”

That last sentence made your heart ache and you lifted your head slowly to look at Mammon. His eyes were closed now, but you could see the tears gathering at the corners and the dampness of his lashes. It was clear to you then that these were his true feelings, and not something he was sharing easily. Without a word, you released his hands, slipping your arms around his waist to pull him into a hug. He flinched at the sudden contact, but didn’t waste any time returning the gesture, wrapping his arms around you and hiding his face in your shoulder.

“I’d never do that,” you replied.

“Well yeah, I know that now.”

“I think you’re amazing, you know? I always have fun with you. And I like spending time with you. When you’re not acting like I’m the plague,” you teased, turning your head slightly to catch a glimpse of Mammon’s face and the faintest hint of a smile that tugged at his lips.

“S’rry. I think yer pretty amazing too. You put up with me an’ my brothers for starters.”

You laughed softly at his reply, feeling his arms tighten around you as he hugged you closer.

“Do you umm...wanna watch a movie…?” Mammon asked, hopeful that you’d take him up on the offer so he’d have a good reason for staying with you a little longer.

“Yeah, we can do that. I didn’t get to finish the movie from the other night.”

You pulled away from Mammon to grab your laptop from beside your bed, before climbing into it and making yourself comfortable. When you looked up, Mammon was still standing awkwardly in the middle of the floor, blushing furiously.

“Oh. Do you not want to sit here? Sorry! We can…” you started to ramble, terrified you had made him uncomfortable again and already messed up everything that you had just seemed to fix.

“No! It’s uh...not that...umm…” Mammon said, moving to sit on the edge of your bed, “Do you umm...wanna try...ya know...holding hands…?”

You blinked a few times as you processed Mammon’s request, staring at his outstretched hand that he was offering to you. Was this what he had been trying to ask you about after school…?

“I mean! It’s fine if ya don’t want to!”

“Wait!” you grabbed his hand quickly, before he had the opportunity to pull it back, “I’d like that. A lot,” you said, your cheeks heating up in embarrassment, “Can I ask you something?” Mammon nodded as he scooted back onto the bed so that he could sit next to you, “Is this umm, what you were trying to ask me about earlier? When we first got back?”

“Yeah,” now sitting comfortably beside you, he adjusted his grip on your hand, lacing your fingers together and allowing you to snuggle up next to him and rest your head on his shoulder. He was nervous at having you so close, but at the same time, he didn’t think he had ever felt more relaxed. There was a certain comfort in knowing that you felt the same way towards him and weren’t going to chase him off for wanting to be near you. He still had a long way to go in the “open and honest” department, but at least with you he didn’t have to hide his feelings any longer.

As the movie played, Mammon found himself struggling to concentrate. You had said a lot of things earlier when you had been so upset that he hadn’t been sure what you meant, or how he was supposed to respond. One thought in particular kept echoing in his mind that he really felt like he needed to address - that you didn’t feel wanted.

“Hey, do you umm, think we could talk?” he finally asked. You paused the movie and closed your laptop, nervous to hear what he had to say.

“Sure,” you replied meekly and Mammon gave your hand what he hoped would be a reassuring squeeze.

“I guess I just want to make sure you know that I want ya around. I know I can be a bit of an idiot at times and don’t always think things through...but that’s how I feel. And I know my brothers feel the same too.”

“Thank you. For telling me.” You could feel your throat tightening and you knew you were probably close to tears again, as if you hadn’t already cried enough today.

“And I’m gonna prove it to ya, you know? The Great Mammon’s gonna show ya just how special you are.”

A small smile spread across your face as you snuggled closer to Mammon. He nudged you gently with his elbow, which only made your smile broaden, and you nudged him in return, causing him to laugh. It didn’t take long for a full on tickle fight to erupt, which only stopped when Mammon had managed to successfully pin you to the mattress. Realizing the position he was in made Mammon’s face flush, but he didn’t move, and you simply looped your arms around his neck holding him in place with a hug. He carefully lowered his body so he could wrap you up in a hug of his own, as you buried your face into the crook of his neck.

You had been so certain earlier that you’d never get a chance to have a moment like this with him. And part of you feared if you were to let him go, he’d leave for good. But no matter how tightly you held him, Mammon held you just as tight. He too had been waiting for this for a long time and wasn’t about to let you go any sooner than necessary.

—————

The following morning, Mammon was already gone by the time you woke up. The realization stung, but you tried to focus on the positives and pushed those thoughts aside, determined not to let yourself jump to the worst case scenario before you had even eaten your breakfast. You quickly got yourself ready, and made your way downstairs, taking your usual seat at the table. Mammon had yet to make an appearance, so you focused on your food, anxiously waiting for him to join you.

When you heard the dining room doors open, you quickly snapped your head up, smiling as Mammon made his way into the room. He locked eyes with you, grinning, but as soon as he noticed that his brothers were also watching him, he averted his gaze and your heart shattered.

Of course, you thought, how could you have forgotten? Just because he admitted to liking you in private didn’t actually mean he would treat you any differently. The thought made your stomach churn, and you had to fight the urge to dash from the room, choosing instead to return your attention to the food on your plate. This was going to be so much worse now that you knew he was aware of your feelings, you thought, blinking back tears.

Shit.

Mammon had reflexively looked away from you for the briefest of moments when he had become aware of his brothers staring. But almost immediately he had stopped himself and looked back at you to offer you a smile. It hadn’t been quick enough though, and he only caught sight of your face as it fell and you attempted to hide your disappointment. He really hadn’t meant to hurt you. Especially not so soon after the two of you had finally opened up to each other.

And now what was he supposed to do?

Well, there really was only one thing he could think of - Make ‘em jealous.

Taking a deep breath, Mammon walked to his seat, nudging his chair over until it was right next to yours, before finally sitting down. You looked up at him, stunned and confused, and he flashed you his usual cocky grin, which only made your heart leap in your throat. Just what was going on? you wondered.

“Ooo Mammon, you’re sitting awfully close today,” Asmodeus teased.

“What’s it to ya, Asmo? Ya jealous?” Mammon, quipped back as he started serving himself some breakfast. He could feel you staring as you struggled to wrap your head around what was happening, and he smirked, shooting you a sideways glance.

“It’s just not fair that you keep hogging them all to yourself. The rest of us should get a chance to sit next to them too.”

“Enough. It’s too early in the morning for this sort of nonsense,” said Lucifer, sighing as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

“You know, dear brother, you’re going to get horrible wrinkles if you don’t get more rest,” replied Asmo, shifting his attention to Lucifer.

Mammon turned to look at you, not at all surprised to see that you were still staring at him in shock. He looked down at your lap, and you followed his gaze as he opened his right hand, palm up, and offered it to you. You stared at it for a few moments, before finally sliding your hand into his. You looked up at him again, only to find that his cheeks were now a very deep shade of red, one that spread all the way to the tips of his ears. He was clearly not prepared for how...different...it was going to feel to hold your hand when surrounded by his brothers, and you couldn’t help but smile at him.

He was quick to turn his attention to his breakfast, and you did the same, occasionally sneaking glances at Mammon as you ate. Mammon could feel your eyes on him, and while mildly embarrassing, also made him ridiculously happy. Up until yesterday he had been so afraid of making a move in your direction, he hadn’t even stopped to think of the possibility of you actually accepting him. And now that he was holding your hand, he was determined to never let it go.