#for sale: inquire within

[weirdlookindog]

Charles Addams - For Sale: Inquire Within

Dean Gitter's Ghost Ballads album cover, c. 1953.

[arsnof]

The picture I sent my dad after I stepped on rebar four years ago

[bobceffula]

Should anyone feel like helping a bitch keep her lights on by purchasing my crafts, I would be eternally grateful to you 🙏 the FishyPig shirt isn’t available, but I wanted an example of one of my commissioned pieces, and it’s definitely one of my favorites. I tried not to include pictures of anything else that isn’t available. Feel free to message me if you’d like anything else pictured, or if you’d like pictures of my older pieces. Additionally, I’m also open to commissions, but they take quite a while to design and stitch, so…keep that in mind. I have a tone of other finished things, though🤗

[angel-of-the-moons]

Chocolates vs Aliens Pt. 2

Symbrock x Pregnant!Reader

TW/CW: NSFW, SMUT, PiV sex, unprotected sex, fluff, pregnancy, childbirth, anxiety, mentioned somnophilia (consented), lactation kink(?), oral sex (f! receiving)

MINORS DNI I AM NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR CONTENT YOU CONSUME

Taglist: @yoink-a-doink @jayfall93 @being-worthy @theflamingraven

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Every day passed meant it was another day your baby girl grew, another kick, another day closer to being able to hold her in your arms and see her tiny face.

Of course, Eddie and Venom were excited, too. You guys moved fast, but everything came in stride, as if you were together for years. Despite the strange circumstances surrounding the three of you, you were content. Eddie and Venom treated the baby as if they fathered it, and you couldn't be happier. Even if you and Venom were in a constant battle for dominance when it came to chocolate. (Spoiler: you almost always won.)

You especially loved it when Venom cradled your belly. He did it at every available opportunity he could snag. Eddie meanwhile took care of a few more mundane things, splitting with Venom the duties of helping your changing body as your due date closed in on you.

Eddie would massage your feet and swollen ankles, while Venom's inky body would surround your midsection, taking the weight of the baby up off your hips, easing the strain on your back...

But your favorite day so far has to be today.

Because right now, you were currently watching Eddie and Venom snap at each other as they struggled to assemble the crib you ordered online.

No written directions were included, merely pictures of most of the crib already assembled; and the two already had to take it apart three times to start over.

"No, that part goes to that part and that one goes there!" Eddie snapped as the symbiote held a screwdriver and a piece of the railing in a long inky tendril.

Venom growled deeply, "WE ARE NEVER BUYING ANYTHING FROM IKEA EVER AGAIN!"

"No the fuck we are not." Eddie huffed. "We're better off buying furniture at a goddamn yard sale!"

You giggled from where you rocked on your reclining chair, your belly heavy and rounded out; effectively making you look like you swallowed a melon whole.

Eddie and Venom snap their heads to pout at you.

"What're you laughing at?" Eddie asked.

"Yeah, we'd like to see you try to put something like this together!" Venom snorted.

"Nah, I already have my hands full putting together something waaaay more intricate." You snort back, looking through the cozy baby clothes you'd bought yesterday.

New Years was approaching, and you knew full well you would be due around then, and your poor tiny baby would be absolutely freezing! So you took the preemptive and bought little newborn winter clothes for your girl, including a cute little fluffy teddy onesie with a hood that had cute little ears on it.

"Oh, yeah?" Venom asked, narrowing his eyes skeptically.

"Yep." You pat your tummy, and the skin shifts as a tiny foot kicks from within.

"...Okay yeah fair point." Eddie chuckled, shaking his head.

"Yeahhh, mommy wins again!" You grin, patting your belly once more, earning yet another eager kick as you imagine it to be a high-five.

"What, are you keeping score now?" Eddie sighs, pointing the screwdriver at you.

"Damn right I am." You grin. "Mommy points for the win!"

"And how many points do we have?" Venom inquired, tilting his head.

"Not enough to beat meeeee~"

Both of them snorted and shook their heads, before turning back to the task of assembling the frustrating crib that would soon, very soon, cradle your newborn daughter.

If Eddie or Venom ever put her down, that is.

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Christmas came and went in what felt like the blink of an eye. Your little celebration was small, and you even invited Mrs Chen over to join in on your festivities.

Which mostly consisted of pizza, a sandwich board, and chicken wings, plus a few homemade goodies that Ms Chen brought with her. Not the best meal idea, but it was a party, and damn those wings were good.

You and Venom even gifted Sonny and Cher a nice little seed treat you baked for them as a Christmas present for being "such good birdies".

Baking for chickens, now that was a first. But hearing their happy little clucks as Venom petted them and talked baby to them was absolutely adorable and worth the trouble. As were the large eggs afterwards!

Your mood swings had petered out about two or three months ago (you weren't sure, but Eddie insisted when you didn't break into tears watching a documentary about penguins) and unfortunately, well...

There are other symptoms of a pregnancy that you really thought you could stave off. You tried, you really did, but Venom having such heightened senses and being able to pick up on your scent and hormones? Oh, yeah. You were screwed.

Literally. In several different ways. You'd only had sex once or twice in a previous relationship, and with how disappointing that was, you definitely preferred to handle your urges yourself.

Where your ex-partner previously failed, Venom and Eddie were overachievers.

Taking great care with your belly and baby, they did whatever they could to ensure you were comfortable before making you so strung out your brain could barely form a coherent thought. Between Venom's tongue and Eddie's hands, you were a whimpering, trembling mess when the two would take you to bed.

Venom was especially ravenous in his sexual appetite. After learning more about sex and the pleasure it brought since bonding with Eddie... Where his host was a meal, you were a full-course desert that he would lose himself in.

Some nights, when he would climb through your window, he would immediately seek you out, drawn in by the lingering adrenaline from the hunt and the smell of you.

When you weren't moving about your apartment, Venom could find you in bed, sleeping fitfully. That was when he would crawl up under the blankets and find his way between your legs, not letting up until you woke up a panting mess.

Yeah, definitely the best way to be woken up, in your opinion. There were worse ways. Waaaay worse. Especially because your pregnancy-libido certainly wasn't complaining, the rush of endorphins afterwards would help outweigh the growing anxiety as the days passed.

Every day meant you were closer to your due date. Every day meant you were closer to experiencing possibly the worst pain you will ever feel in your life.

And there was the chance something could go wrong, that your baby could get stuck, or the umbilical cord could wrap around her, or she could be in a breech position...

You feel Eddie's hands gently encircle you, lazily draped over your shoulders as you sat in the shower chair, the warm water pattering over you two. It was New Year's Eve, and you two decided a calm, relaxing shower was a nice way to unwind before you poked your head out of your window to watch the fireworks people would inevitably launch to usher in the new year.

"Hey, sweets." He said to you softly, his thumbs brushing your collarbone softly. "We can feel your pulse jumping like crazy. You okay?"

"Huh? Oh, yeah, I just..." You sigh.

"Liar." Eddie chuckled, bringing his large hands to your shoulders to press his thumbs into your weak spots, making you shiver and drag out a soft noise from you.

"C'mon." He urged gently as he massaged you, sending delightful shivers down your back and to your toes and all the way back up again.

"You can tell us, sweets. You thinking about the delivery again?"

You deflate a little, the bliss of his skilled hands drifting away from your grasp as the weight of your baby's birth came back to your mind.

"...Yeah. I'm just... I'm so, so worried, Eddie." You say, feeling your lip begin to wobble.

"I've read so many horrible things online of how it could go wrong, and..."

Venom's head suddenly slinks around you until his strange body is stretched so he could look you in the eyes.

"But there's also good things." He rumbled. "You might have a quick birth, not having to go through it for hours or even days..."

"And hey, you might even be one of those ladies who sneezes and pop! The baby's out!" Eddie added in, making Venom groan.

You can help but chuckle at how absurd it sounded, and you knew Venom was inwardly cringing at such a naive suggestion.

"I doubt I'll be that lucky." You sigh, a smile finally gracing your soft lips.

"Hey! You never know!"

"Idiot." Venom huffed.

"Shithead." Eddie smirked.

You feel your anxieties settle a bit, at least for now.

Your hands trail over your belly, over the thin purple lines crossing your skin, your fingers gently caressing the rising and falling bumps as your baby shifted and rolled around inside your womb.

"...Willow." Venom suddenly said.

You and Eddie blinked and stared at him, brows raised and eyes large, a long silence filling the shower as the water ran over you.

"What?" You ask him.

"For a name. You're gonna be due any day now." He purred, leaning his face closer to your belly.

"Still haven't settled on one."

"Where did you hear that name, Vee?" Eddie asked, shock evident in his tone.

"In some TV show I flicked through when you two were asleep. I like it." He replied simply, pressing his muzzle to your belly, feeling the tiny feet and hands thrash out from within.

"Okay, as far as names go that's... actually a good one." Eddie murmured.

"...Willow." You repeat softly.

It was a beautiful name. And honestly... You liked it. You had yet to pick a name for yourself, indecision being your worst enemy your entire life made the process that much harder.

Picking a name was one of your fears, too. You wanted your daughter to have a wonderful one; one she could carry with pride, and the pressure you placed on yourself to pick the perfect one was what screwed you up on that.

But this name, the one Venom suggested felt... right.

"Yeah." You smile once again. "Yeah. Her name can be Willow."

Venom grinned a shark-like grin and nuzzled his face into your belly like a happy affectionate cat, purring like one, too.

"Well, I'm glad that's a weight off of you." Eddie chuckled, resuming his earlier massage into your shoulders, earning another blissful sigh from you.

Yeah... Things will work out. After all, as long as you had these two with you, you felt like you could handle anything.

You relaxed and leaned into Eddie's touch, a little whimper escaping you as his thumbs knead into a knot in your shoulders.

Venom grinned up at you, and you knew fell the glint in his eyes meant you were in trouble.

And you knew that Eddie had the same smirk.

"No point in hiding it, sweet thing." Venom growled lowly, his tongue laving out to taste the skin on your hip, tracing the stretch marks etched into your skin.

"We know what gets you going." Eddie said quietly, leaning in to whisper in your ear.

You shivered when Venom's tongue slithered lower, past the swell of your midsection and down to your twitching clit.

"It's n-not my fault..." You whined, your voice cut off by a breathy moan as you felt Venom's tongue squirm past your entrance and into your tight, gummy walls.

"Of course not." Eddie hummed, massaging your shoulders as you arched your spine as little as you could; Venom's inky body slinked around you, enveloping you and keeping you from slipping off the shower chair in the process while he proceeded to eat you out with voracious hunger.

Eddie hissed suddenly, his fingers halting in their ministrations to squeeze you softly.

"Eddie, what--" You panted.

But that's when you felt it. The water was getting cold.

"Maybe we should move this to the bed, hm?" Venom cackled.

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"Eddie, fuck..." You whimpered fingers gripping tight into your bedsheets as Eddie rutted his nose against your clit, his lips and tongue dancing through your soaked folds as his hands pawed at your hips, bringing you down closer every time you squirmed away.

As Eddie devoured you, part of Venom's mass was completely surrounding his cock, sucking and stroking in time with his tongue as it pushed and pulled against your weeping cunt.

It was too much, and not enough at the same time. As much as you wanted more, you also wanted to push him away because the sensations were beginning to become too much for you to handle.

Your eyes were rolled back into your head as you felt that blissful feeling begin roll into a roaring crescendo, threatening to overtake you and make your heart patter out of your lungs.

God, you wished your belly wasn't in the way so you could see what he looked like between your legs. One day, soon.

Or, well... At least once you were fully recovered after the birth. Which would probably be a while.

You were so lost in Eddie's mouth working you over that you didn't notice Venom leering at you, saliva dripping around his fangs as his eyes narrowed to barely-there slits, focused intently on your heaving breasts; both long since swollen and sensitive as your milk came in.

You certainly didn't notice the small beads of hazy white liquid beading up and threatening to roll down the soft mounds of flesh as your orgasm approached.

"Oh, fuck--" You gasped, weakly rolling your hips to meet Eddie's eager mouth.

For a split second, you hear Venom snarl softly, before all of a sudden his mouth was on you, latching onto your pebbled nipple, his tongue rolling and squeezing your breast to get out every drop of that sweet liquid he could.

"Fuck." Eddie groaned, pulling back to breathe heavily.

Venom made sure Eddie could taste your milk as he drank from you readily, the flavor coating his tongue and flooding his taste buds to combine with the sweet taste of your nectar that coated his face and chin.

It was an intoxicating combination.

Eddie's eyes rolled a bit as he dove back in, aggressively sucking and nipping at your clit, gently prodding your entrance with his fingers as Venom proceeded to try and drain your breasts of all their milk.

All at once, the combined feelings had your mind blacking out, every muscle tensing as you came; your teeth snagging your bottom lip between them and you made a loud moan, barely able to string their names out of your mouth as they helped you ride out your orgasm.

Eddie pulls his mouth away from you and rises to his knees while Venom pulls himself free (albeit reluctantly) of your breast, licking the stray rivulets of milk that had begun to run down the sides of your tits.

"So sweet, love." He purred, licking his chops. "But we need more."

Venom's head merged back into Eddie's body, his inky mass slinking down his arms until it was comfortably arching your hips and back off the bed while Eddie rutted his sensitive cock against your sensitive cunt, still fluttering and clenching around nothing as the remnants of your orgasm waned.

But every lazy stroke of his hips sent little bolts of lightning arcing through your nerves, stretching out the little aftershocks just a bit farther as he carefully slid his cock into your hungry cunt.

"Fucking tight." Eddie hissed through clenched teeth, his eyes pinching shut.

"Not gonna last long, sweets." He rasped.

Between Venom working his cock over and edging him while he ate you out, and how your silky wet heat enveloped him so wonderfully tight, he could already feel himself getting lost in your body.

"Eddie, please..." You keened, your fingers going to grip at his wrists, your nails digging into his skin with each plunge of his cock into your needy hole.

He was careful with you, trying not to jostle you (and the baby) too much as he fucked you.

You felt the pressure build up low in your belly once more, squeezing down and sending another tight feeling down your spine as you became hyper-aware of every vein in his cock as he glided in and out of your hole.

"Almost, baby, almost..." Eddie breathed, wriggling one of his wrists free so he could brace it in the pillow by your head to give himself a bit of leverage as he rocked his hips into yours.

He could feel his orgasm climbing fast; sweat dripping down his brow as your delicate hands slid over his shoulders. The way you bit your lip and locked eyes with him only drove him further into no man's land.

"Fuck." He moaned weakly, his pace stuttering and dragging out as he felt the first volley of cum shoot out of his sensitive tip.

He had enough control to pull out, rutting his hips over your belly as the rest of his cum shot over your swollen belly and twitching pussy, his cock once more rutting against you as he came hard.

Your teeth grit and your nails dug in as Eddie buried his face in the crook of your neck, panting hard into your damp skin as you feel a sensation you were almost familiar with burst low, a fresh burst of wetness gushing from you are the pressure on your lower spine builds and tingles.

"Oh, fuck." You swallow. "Eddie."

"Yeah?" He asks, pulling back to look down at you with an almost cocky smile on his face.

"I think my water broke."

He and Venom both immediately began to panic.

"WHAT?!"

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The scrambling to get to the hospital moved by you in a blur. One minute Eddie was hastily dressing you in one of your sundresses, slippers, and a pair of panties, the next you were carried like some sort of fairytale princess down to the car park.

Good luck getting an ambulance out to your place tonight...

Eddie and Venom bickered the whole time to your car, your hospital bag prepped and slung over Eddie's shoulder as he guided you down to your car.

They sat you in the passenger seat and helped you buckle in as the first set of contractions ripple through you. As the pain flashed, you couldn't help but be reminded by your earlier concerns.

You read that some women felt pain for days, or hours before their water broke. Why were you only feeling it now? Was that a bad thing? Was something wrong?

Fuck, you knew it would hurt, but... you weren't prepared for the sudden sharp stabbing. You expected it to start as a throb and build from there, not immediately start out like someone was hacking away at your lower half.

When you arrived at the hospital, Eddie had actually slipped and busted his ass on the freshly mopped floor in his haste to fetch you a wheelchair.

You would have laughed, if you hadn't been gripping the safety handle in the car, screaming as another sharp jolt stabbed through you.

A few nurses even chased him out, harping about how he could have a concussion from falling, but quieted when they saw what had him in such a frantic rush.

Your baby girl was coming, whether you were ready or not.

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It had been close to four hours, and you were almost ready to deliver; nearly fully dilated, as your obstetrician cheerfully announced, a smile so cheerful and calm you almost kicked her in the face.

She was less impressed with Eddie, however, as she pulled him out of the delivery room to talk.

"We'll be right back, luv." She assured you sweetly.

"Uh... Is--is everything okay? You were saying they were okay, and--" He blurted out nervously.

"No, no, she's fine." She assured him, pushing her glasses up her nose once more.

"Then what..."

"I couldn't help but notice how hesitant she was to tell me how she went into labor. But I have to know, did she fall? Injure her belly in any way?" She questions.

"No! No, god no." Eddie said, waving his hands and shaking his head. "Nothing like that!"

She crossed her arms and tapped her finger on her bicep, a thick brow quirking upwards on her freckled brow.

"...Were the two of you having sex?"

Fuck.

Shit.

Fuck fuck fuck.

FUCK.

"Uh... I, er..." Eddie put a hand on his hip and scratched the back of his head, casting a look into the room where you were read-faced and sweaty while the nurses wiped your face with a towel while your hands gripped the handles in the birthing chair you were seated in.

He blew a puff of air out of his cheeks.

God, he wanted to crawl into a hole and die. The embarrassment of the situation was too much for him, having this teeny tiny Irish woman stare him down.

"I'm not judging you." She says flatly, not letting him escape her microscopic gaze. "But I have to tell you that there is a reason we tell pregnant patients to avoid penetrative sex, or excessive sex this late into their third trimester. It can make them go into labor."

She clicked her tongue and sighed. "You're lucky that she was so close to her due date that the baby isn't in any real danger. But it was still reckless. Regardless if she consented or not, this sort of thing can be dangerous, you hear me?"

Eddie wilted, feeling very much like a puppy who got caught wee'ing on the carpet, shame and mortification filling every inch of his body. Even Venom felt this way, cringing internally at the truths the doctor spat at them as she gave her lecture.

Her rant was cut short when you made a sharp yelp, jerking and clutching at your belly and one of the nurses came rushing to the doorway.

"Doctor O'Halloran, she's ready. We can already feel the baby's head. Looks like this baby wants out now!" She said, absolutely calm and no concern in her voice. If anything, she sounded excited!

Eddie meanwhile was frantic as O'Halloran clicked her tongue again, checking her watch with an almost bored glance. "Huh. Look't that. Well! Let's get this baby out of her! Adjust the chair so she's a bit more comfortable."

She grinned at Eddie, "Well? C'mon, Papa! You better be in here to see your baby girl!"

He felt his heart surge and flop in his chest when she said that. It was finally settling in.

Papa.

Their baby. Their baby girl.

Eddie had scrambled to behind the chair, leaning forward to wrap his arms around you.

He was glad he had Venom to strengthen his body, because god, could he swear you had suddenly gained incredible super strength as you began to push, crying and screaming as your lungs were squeezed of air, the pain so blinding you had actually fainted for a few seconds, all while not losing your inhumanly tight grip on his hand.

You had shouted more obscenities than Eddie and Venom had ever heard you swear, in between crying and apologizing for saying them and fainting like a messed up cycle.

Doctor O'Halloran assured Eddie this was normal rather calmly as you came to yet again, just to cry and scream again as your body struggled to push the baby free of your birth canal.

The smell of blood immediately had Venom wanting to surge forth, despite knowing there was nothing he could do for you currently except support you from inside of Eddie as you endured the most painful struggle of your life and he bore witness to something he'd never seen with his own eyes.

The bringing of a life into the world.

It hurt the both of them, to see you hurting so badly as you strained to bring Willow out for the world to see. Thankfully, as Venom had hoped earlier in the night, your birth was going quickly.

Not painlessly, of course, oh no. Definitely not painless.

"The moment we get home, I'm bonding with her. I know I can do it." Venom whined within Eddie as you sobbed in pain. "I want to fix her. I don't want her to hurt anymore after this."

Eddie silently agreed, hoping you would consent to melding with the symbiote to heal the damages your body was going through to birth your baby.

They just wished that you didn't have--

All at once, your body went slack and your eyes shut, but before the boys could panic any further, a tiny, ear-piercing wail filled the room.

"A girl! A nice set of lungs on her!" O'Halloran laughed as she scooped up and handed the newborn off to the nurse. She knew that Eddie (and Venom of course) were too preoccupied between staring in awe at the squirming purple body the nurse held to focus on cutting the cord.

All they could think about was her.

She was here. In front of them. Finally.

Those tiny feet that kicked out at them all this time, the little head they could feel shift around in your belly...

The nurses adjusted the chair enough to allow you to lean back, and Eddie covered your face in kisses, waking you up again with a mad grin.

And, heaven fucking bless you; amazing, gorgeous, powerful you, you smiled back. A tired, watery smile as you cried in victory.

Giving birth and being birthed was the closest thing that someone could come to dying and still come out of it. Many were not so lucky, but they were glad you were among the majority that emerged from this bloody struggle with a smile on your face and mirth in your bloodshot eyes.

The nurses wiped your baby down a bit before pulling your gown down to place her squirming, hiccuping body onto your bare chest.

Your hands weakly went to cradle her warm body, kissing the top of her head where a patch of fuzzy hair was.

"Hey, sweetheart." You sniffled, whispering against the wet fuzz.

You could barely get words out as emotions surged out of you all at once, overwhelming your body and mind as you cradled your precious child.

Almost immediately as your voice washed over her, it was as if the angry baby instantly calmed. It was like your soft, happy sobs were a soothing balm to her squirming body.

Neither could tell who moved it first, but Eddie's hand went to cover yours, Willow looking positively teeny beneath his large hand, watching in awe as her tiny, fat little fingers clawed and groped at your chest.

The sounds of loud booms from outside filled your ears, making her jump and wail once more as you coo'd and murmured to your baby.

"Hey, Eddie?" You sniffled, looking up at him.

"Y... Yeah?" Eddie asked, his throat tight as tears began to build at the corners of his eyes.

You tipped your head and kissed his jaw, weak and tired.

"Happy new year."

You were only faintly aware of the nurses cheering; both the healthy baby you birthed and in celebration of the new year ahead of you.

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They kept you at the hospital for another two days after you gave birth. After passing the placenta and remaining viscera of the birth, your body felt like literal tons of strain had been lifted from you.

And of course you, at the same time, felt like you had been tackled unprotected by a professional linebacker.

So, of course as soon as Venom offered to ease your comfort and repair the damage you agreed. It would certainly save on the recovery time. Sure, it would be hard to explain during your next checkup, but you'd cross that bridge when you got to it.

Ms Chen had gone to the hospital, as she was practically the closest thing either of you had to a mother and she wanted to see the baby. She carried an armload of supplies with her, too. Including some kinda balm that frankly stunk of something akin to menthol, but whatever it did, it certainly eased the pain on your poor nethers.

And of course, she gave a shit-eating grin when you named her honorary grandma.

Even Eddie's ex, Anne, came with her fiancee to congratulate him and coo over the adorable little bundle he so proudly cradled in his strong arms.

He certainly had nurses swooning, but you knew their eyes were only for you. Especially after he cried some more when you wanted his name on her birth certificate.

Right now, you watched as Willow suckled on her cute pink pacifier that Anne had slipped down to the gift shop to buy while they were at the hospital.

She was dressed in a soft two-piece to ensure the remnants of the umbilical cord weren't too aggravated, her cute little face pinched as she grunted in her sleep, exhausted from feeding and content as you carefully swaddled her.

Eddie came up behind you as Venom's head emerged from his body, all three of you looking down as your newborn dreamt whatever dreams babies had. Probably about her next feeding time.

"She's so fucking cute." Eddie sighed dreamily.

"I know! And she's so chunky." You giggle. "I had a real meatball of a baby. No wonder I was so big."

"Nah, you're beautiful." Eddie chuckled, kissing the skin of your shoulder that had been exposed by your oversized T-shirt. One of his, for sure, but he didn't mind.

Venom purred in a near-silent content, before turning to look at Eddie with a shark-like grin, sending a thought telepathically for only him to hear.

The thought made Eddie choke and start to laugh as he buried his face in the crook of your neck.

"What? What's so funny, you ginormous dorks?" You snicker.

"Ah. Eh..." Eddie said, grinning widely. "...Vee says he calls dibs on the next one."

"Next one..?" You say, your brows furrowing.

"Yeah... the next one. He wants to be the one to knock you up next time."

"Oh, my god!" You gasped, spinning around to slap at Eddie's shoulder while he and Venom laughed. "You two are horrible! Have mercy on my poor body!"

Venom leaned in, nuzzling the pulse in your neck.

"We didn't hear a no..."

[morbidology]

Few images capture the desperation and heartbreak of the Great Depression as starkly as the photograph known as "4 Children for Sale." Taken in 1948 by photographer Bettmann, the black-and-white image depicts four young children sitting on the steps of their home in Chicago, with a crude sign beside them that reads, "4 Children for Sale – Inquire Within."

The photograph portrays the four siblings – Lana, Rae, Milton, and Sue Chalifoux – whose mother, Lucille Chalifoux, was reportedly driven to the decision to sell her children due to severe financial distress. The children's father, Ray Chalifoux, was a coal truck driver struggling to find steady work, and the family faced eviction from their home. With few options left, Lucille and Ray made the heart-wrenching choice to put their children up for sale, hoping that they would find better lives with families who could afford to care for them.

The image quickly garnered widespread attention and became emblematic of the widespread suffering experienced by many during the Great Depression. Public reaction ranged from outrage to sympathy, as people grappled with the harsh realities that could lead parents to such a desperate act.

While there has been speculation that the photo might have been staged, the story behind it is true. All the children in the photograph, including the baby Lucille Chalifoux was pregnant with at the time, were indeed sold. One of the girls in the photo later revealed that she was sold for $2, which was used for bingo money. Others recounted being sold and then chained to a barn, forced to work as slave laborers on a farm.

[ryanmarshallryan]

YARD SALE

VORETOBER SHORT VORE STORY DAY 29

Kyle saw his hot neighbor, Mike, was having a yard sale. Mike was sitting behind a little lemonade stand to help draw people in, adorning an open button up shirt, also probably to attract buyers. There was a little chalkboard with some options:

Lemonade - $1

Cookies - $2

Vore - Inquire Within

“What's that last option, there?” Kyle asked Mike.

Mike looked Kyle up and down appraisingly, “Serious inquiries only. I'll only perform the trick if you know what it means.”

“Ooh a trick, I wanna see!”

Mike rubbed his rumbling gut, “It's not about what you see, but about how it feels… and what you'll become.”

“Okay, well now you have to show me,” Kyle teased.

Mike shrugged. “As long as you're sure,” he said, picking up Kyle with both hands, tossing him into the air, opening his mouth wide, and swallowing him in one big gulp as he fell back down.

“Oh, what I'll become, I get it… hey toss me down a cookie before I become fat! And drink some lemonade, it's hot in here!”

“On the house,” Mike replied, rubbing his distended belly, “Or in the house I guess.”

Featuring hungrybellyguy @pure-pred as Mike the pred

[fafnir19]

The Gender Switch Experience

Linus sat on his stool in the laboratory, swirling a stirring rod idly in a beaker of bubbling pink liquid. Elias leaned against the adjacent bench, eyebrow raised in amusement. Linus sighed, setting the rod down. "I just don't get it, Elias. How do women work? Why can't I find a girlfriend?"

Elias chuckled, adjusting his glasses. "You know, Linus, sometimes intelligence can be intimidating for some people. Plus, you can be a bit too deep with your scientific explanation of the universe. You need to be a bit more approachable and light-hearted." Linus huffed, running a hand through his blonde buzz cut. "But isn't it frustrating? Women seem to go for these brainless muscle masses, like that arrogant Aron from sales.

It's like their brains shut down in the presence of biceps and a charming smile." Elias arched an eyebrow. "Are you jealous of Aron?" Linus blushed. "Of course not! It's just... frustrating. I wish I could understand them better. And on top of that, my parents keep pressuring me about grandchildren. I'm their only hope to carry on the family lineage. It's like the weight of the ancestry rests solely on my shoulders."

Suddenly, Elias's eyes lit up with an idea. "Wait a minute, Linus. Remember our research project? What if we use our machine on one of us to understand the female perspective better?" Linus blinked, intrigued. "You mean the gender switch device?" Elias nodded. "Yes! We've been on the verge of a breakthrough, and this could be the perfect opportunity for you to walk a mile in a woman's heels, metaphorically speaking." Linus's eyes widened with realization. "You really think this could help me understand women better?" Elias grinned. "Absolutely! Plus, it could be a fantastic test run for our breakthrough project. Think about it, Linus. You could become Lina for a while and experience the world through a new lens." Linus hesitated before nodding resolutely. "I'll do it." Elias clapped him on the back. "Great! We'll do it on Friday evening when no one is in the lab. We'll keep it a secret, just between us." Excitement and nervousness swirled inside Linus's mind. What would it be like to inhabit a different body, to see the world through a different set of eyes? He couldn't wait for Friday to come. 

As the laboratory fell into a hushed silence, Linus positioned himself before the formidable transformation machine.

Nervously, he squared his shoulders, anticipation and trepidation intermingling within the depths of his being. Elias, his stalwart companion, stood poised to assist, his eyes alight with a fervent intellectual curiosity that mirrored Linus' own. "Do you truly wish to proceed with this, Linus?" Elias inquired, his voice tinged with a blend of caution and excitement. Linus met Elias' gaze, his own filled with unwavering determination. "I must understand, Elias. I must experience firsthand what it means to walk in a woman's shoes," he replied, his words resonating with resolute conviction. With a nod, Elias initiated the sequence, setting the transformative apparatus into motion. The contraption hummed to life, casting an otherworldly glow as it enveloped Linus in its embrace. Time seemed to stand still as an iridescent aura unfolded around him, bathing him in an ethereal luminescence. The air crackled with anticipation as Linus felt a strange, almost imperceptible tugging at the very essence of his being. His form contorted and shifted as the machine worked its mysterious alchemy, imbuing him with a profound sense of transformation. His heart quickened as he became increasingly aware of the subtle, yet undeniable rearrangement of his physicality. A surge of emotions coursed through him as he observed his chest swelling with newfound fullness, the contours of his physique assuming a delicate femininity. He gasped in astonishment as his once-familiar genitals underwent a profound metamorphosis, inverting and reforming into the embodiment of womanhood. A flurry of sensations, both exhilarating and disconcerting, washed over him, signaling the irrevocable completion of his transformation. Elias surveyed the scene with an analytical fervor, his eyes aglow with exhilaration. "It's working, Linus! You're becoming Lina!" he announced, a spark of triumph dancing in his gaze alongside a glimmer of incredulity. Indeed, the profound metamorphosis had come to fruition, and Linus had been reborn as Lina, her spirit pulsating with the complexities of her newfound identity.

With an unyielding resolve, Lina prepared to embark on a journey teeming with uncharted territory, her gaze alight with an insatiable curiosity. "Elias, I need to immerse myself in the world as a woman, to truly comprehend," she declared, her voice resonating with a fervent resolve. Acknowledging the weight of their audacious experiment, Elias met Lina's eye with a nod of acquiescence. "We must exercise caution, Lina. This is unexplored terrain, and we must tread with utmost care," he cautioned, cognizant of the gravity of their endeavors. As the evening unfolded and the initial shock of her newfound identity began to subside, Lina found herself filled with a sense of empowerment and curiosity. She wore a radiant smile as she thanked Elias profusely for his part in the experiment. "We should celebrate this momentous occasion, Lina," Elias suggested, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Let's go out, have some fun, and truly experience life as a woman." Lina's eyes lit up with excitement at the prospect. "I'd love that! Let's make the most of this opportunity." Together, they ventured into the vibrant city, the evening air filled with an infectious energy. They found themselves in a lively bar, where the gentle clink of glasses and laughter mingled with the pulsating rhythm of music. Lina savored the feeling of newfound freedom and embraced the thrill of the unknown. As the night progressed, Elias and Lina indulged in a few cocktails, their lighthearted conversation punctuated by fits of laughter and the occasional insightful observation. It was a rare and cherished moment of unburdened joy, unmarred by the weight of responsibility and expectations. However, their carefree revelry was interrupted when a familiar presence entered the bar. Lina's heart skipped a beat as she caught sight of Aron, the very object of her frustration earlier.

She felt an urge to flee, but fear and defiance warred within her. Elias noticed Lina's unease and leaned in to whisper, "Let's leave, Lina. We can find another place to enjoy ourselves." Lina hesitated for a moment, then nodded her head with determination. "Yes, Elias. I want to dance. Let's go to a club." Elias raised an eyebrow, surprised at Lina's sudden resolve, but he acquiesced, understanding that she needed her space.  In the pulsating ambiance of the club, Lina lost herself in the dance, her body moving with a fluid grace that she never knew she possessed. The music resounded in her veins, infusing her with a sense of unbridled liberation. Elias, on the other hand, felt out of place in the thumping rhythms of the club and approached Lina. "I think I've had enough," he said with a strained smile. "Do you want to head home?" Lina, intoxicated with her newfound freedom, shook her head. "I'm going to stay a little longer. You go ahead, Elias. I'll find my way back." Elias hesitated, his concern evident in his eyes, but he eventually relented, knowing that Lina needed this night of self-discovery.  As Elias departed for the sidelines, Lina lost herself in the music, the vibrant allure of the night sweeping her into its enchanting embrace.

However, when an unexpected figure approached her amidst the dance, Lina's enthusiasm faltered. Aron materialized in the midst of the crowd, his confident strides carrying him closer to Lina with a charming smile playing on his lips.

Despite her initial reluctance, Lina found herself tentatively entertaining his approach, a strange sense of curiosity seizing her. "What's a vibrant beauty like you doing all alone on the dance floor?" Aron inquired, his blue eyes glimmering with a warmth that caught Lina off guard. Lina hesitated, caught in a curious dance of conflicting emotions. "I was planning to leave, but the music got the better of me. I couldn't resist the allure of the night." Aron's smile widened, the playful glint in his eyes stirring something unfamiliar within Lina. "I'm glad you stayed. Care to join me for a drink? I'd love to get to know you better." Lina's thoughts swirled in a tempest of uncertainty, her resistance slowly eroding in the face of Aron's undeniable charm. "I suppose one drink couldn't hurt," she acquiesced, allowing herself to be swept up in the enigmatic allure of the night. As the evening wore on, Lina found herself entangled in a captivating conversation with Aron, his charming manner casting an unexpected spell over her. The vibrant energy of the club intertwined with the heady allure of Aron's company, stirring sensations within Lina that she struggled to comprehend. Though she had harbored resentment towards Aron, Lina discovered a surprising charm and warmth in him as they conversed, his laughter infectious and his wit surprisingly disarming.

The night unfolded in a whirlwind of emotions, and before she could comprehend the gravity of her actions, she found herself in Aron's embrace, succumbing to an unexpected wave of desire. The next morning dawned with a disorienting haze of regret and bewilderment. Lina struggled to come to terms with her unexpected liaison with Aron, the weight of her actions settling heavily upon her. 

Eventually, Lina reunited with Elias, the gender switch machine restoring her to her original form as Linus. However, amidst their joyous banter, Linus divulged the startling revelations brought about by his time as Lina. "Elias, you won't believe what happened," Linus confessed, his expression a concoction of incredulity and astonishment. "As Lina, I found myself overwhelmed by unfamiliar sensations, and I… I slept with Aron." Elias arched an eyebrow, amusement dancing in his eyes. "Well, well, well, Linus. It seems that Lina had quite the adventure. And with Aron, no less!" Linus scowled, his cheeks ablaze with embarrassment. "It was a mistake, Elias. I don't know what came over me." Elias chuckled, offering Linus a reassuring pat on the back. "Relax, my friend. It's all part of the grand expedition of life. And I must say, this will make for a fantastic story to tell." 

As days turned into weeks following the experiment, Linus noticed a newfound vitality within himself, an inexplicable surge of energy and a fervent inclination towards physical activity. In a departure from his usual demeanor, he delved into rigorous physical exercise, his frame gradually gaining strength and definition.  Elias observed Linus's remarkable metamorphosis with a mix of awe and curiosity, remarking on his friend's newfound dedication to fitness. "I must say, Linus, the change in your lifestyle is truly astounding. Your commitment to exercise knows no bounds. What ignited this newfound passion?" Linus, a sheen of sweat glistening on his brow, beamed with a newfound confidence. "I can't quite put my finger on it, Elias. It's as if this surge of vitality has engulfed me, propelling me to embrace physical activity like never before. I feel like a whole new person." Elias raised an eyebrow. "A whole new person, you say? Are you certain it's simply the result of amplified endorphins from exercise?" Linus chuckled, the resonating tones of his laughter carrying a semblance of unfamiliarity. "Sure thing, man!" In the following weeks, Linus's fervor for physical activity yielded undeniable results. His physique underwent a stunning transformation, his once slender frame honed into a chiseled form that exuded an air of confidence and vitality. Rumors of his newfound allure rippled through the research facility, prompting admiring glances from colleagues and an influx of attention from female acquaintances.

One fateful day at the gym, Linus found himself face-to-face with Aron, the very embodiment of the idealized image of masculine vitality that Linus had previously begrudged. The air buzzed with an unexpected tension as Aron regarded Linus with a glint of recognition and intrigue.

Aron's eyebrow quirked up in surprise as he studied Linus's physique. "Well, well, well, Linus. Look at you, morphing from a bespectacled scientist into a swole stud. Quite the metamorphosis, I must say. What's your secret?" Linus paused, acutely aware of the newfound strength that surged through his being. "It seems that I've stumbled upon a penchant for physical exertion, much to my own surprise. Perhaps I should be asking you for workout tips, Aron." Aron chuckled, a bemused smile tugging at his lips. "I must admit, the transformation suits you, Linus. Embracing the ways of the jocks, are we?" Their encounters at the gym became a regular occurrence, and soon, Linus found himself embarking on training sessions alongside Aron, their banter filled with a surprising sense of camaraderie. As they delved into rigorous workouts and exchanged jabs and jests, a bond of unexpected companionship began to burgeon between the once unlikely allies.

It was during one such training session that Aron inquired about a peculiar detail. "Say, Linus, I couldn't help but notice something. Your eyes are typically brown, yet they seem to be blue. Are you wearing contact lenses?" Linus furrowed his brow, a flicker of perplexity dancing in his gaze. "That's odd. I haven't donned any lenses, so this alteration is indeed perplexing."  

Seeking answers, Linus approached Elias. In the dimly lit laboratory, Linus paced nervously as Elias fiddled with vials and beakers. "Elias, you have to help me figure this out," Linus implored, his brow furrowed in worry. "My eye color has changed, and I don't understand why. It's like I'm turning into someone else." Elias adjusted his glasses and peered at Linus intently. "Hmm, let's run some tests. We'll get to the bottom of this, Linus," he assured, his voice laced with determination.

With deft movements, Elias collected samples and scurried off to the lab equipment, his mind whirring with potential explanations. After a few days of anxious anticipation, Elias bustled back into the room holding a sheet of paper. "Linus, I have the results," Elias declared, his eyes ablaze with curiosity. "It's... unexpected." "Spit it out, Elias," Linus urged, his nerves on edge. He braced himself for the impending revelation. "According to the DNA test, it seems that Lina, well, she was... she was impregnated by Aron," Elias stuttered, his shock mirrored by Linus's gaping jaw. "Aron? But... but that's impossible! How could this have happened?" Linus spluttered, his mind swimming with disbelief. "And what does this mean for me?" Elias paused, choosing his words carefully. "It seems that transforming from Lina back to Linus triggered a fundamental change in you. Because the lack of a uterus has prevented you from growing a child, it appears that your own genetic makeup has been irrevocably altered.You, my friend, are now technically considered Aron's son," Elias explained, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "No, that can't be right," Linus protested, his fists clenching in denial. "I refuse to accept that I'm anything like him. I'm not his son." "It's common for offspring to resist acknowledging their similarities to their parents," Elias chuckled, attempting to lighten the heavy atmosphere. "But Linus, when we really think about it, you've taken on a lot of Aron's traits, haven't you?" Linus fell silent, his mind grappling with Elias's observation. He couldn't deny that over time, he had mirrored Aron's behavior, finding a newfound confidence that had eluded him before.

Unbeknownst to them, Aron had overheard snippets of their conversation and sauntered over, a smug smirk dancing on his lips. "What's all this fuss about genetic makeup?" he inquired with a curious glint in his eyes. Linus flinched at the sight of Aron, his newfound anxiety clashing with his unease. "It's nothing, really. Just some absurd test results that we're trying to make sense of," Linus replied hastily, attempting to brush off the seriousness of the situation. Aron folded his arms across his chest, casting a knowing smirk at Linus.

"So, does this mean that you're no longer part of your own family line?" he prodded mischievously. Linus squared his shoulders, determined to refute the assumption. "Children carry the genetic traits of both parents. I can't just be solely considered like you," he asserted, his voice wavering with uncertainty. Elias shifted awkwardly, the weight of the revelation sitting heavily on his shoulders. "Well, the test results did show that about 90% of your genetic makeup is now paralleled with Aron's, with only 10% retaining aspects of your old self," Elias confessed, unable to meet Linus' gaze. Aron raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Does this mean that Linus' family line has now been wiped out - he is an only child?" he asked mischievously, his eyes glinting with mischief. Silence enveloped the room as Linus struggled to grapple with the enormity of the truth. How could he come to terms with the fact that he was more akin to Aron than himself and that his ancestral line has been vanquished?

Aron clapped Linus on the back, his expression brimming with amusement, "Look at that, you're one of the cool kids now, Linus! Embrace the change, buddy." "This is absurd," Linus muttered, feeling overwhelmed by the sudden turn of events. Over the next few months, Linus noticed a change within himself. His once-keen intellect seemed to wane, and he found himself drawn to activities he had never before considered. Linus clasped his hands and stared into the distance, "I never used to enjoy sports or casual conversations. What's happening to me?"

Elias patted Linus on the back, a tinge of sadness in his eyes, "It seems the transformation has altered more than just your physical appearance, Linus. Your interests, your behavior, they're all shifting." Linus shook his head, unable to comprehend the magnitude of the changes taking place within him. "I don't want to be like Aron," he muttered, despondent. As days turned by, Linus found himself a sudden desire to be more outgoing and social gnawing at him. "I never thought I'd say this, but Aron has become my best friend," Linus admitted to Elias, a sense of bewilderment lacing his words. Elias sighed, "It seems like you're embracing more and more of Aron's traits with each passing day, Linus. It's like he's become your role model."

In the nine months that followed, the change in Linus was palpable. His once razor-sharp intellect dulled, morphing into a shadow of its former self. No longer was he the dedicated scientist engrossed in groundbreaking research, but a husk of a man, devoid of his former brilliance. It was a bright Monday morning when Linus trudged his way into the sales department, a world away from his beloved science department. He was greeted with slaps on the back and hearty cheers from his new colleagues, among them, the suave and charming Aron. "Hey, Linus! Look at you, all dapper and ready to conquer the sales world!" Aron exclaimed with a roguish grin. Linus barely managed a dim smile in return, his once keen eyes now glazed over with vacant emptiness. His transformation was complete, and Elias could only watch in despair as his best friend slipped further and further away from him.

As the months went by, Linus' days revolved around sales pitches and closing deals. Gone were the days of intellectual pursuits, replaced by the pursuit of fleeting pleasures and hedonistic indulgences.

As Linus strolled into the sales department, a noticeable swagger in his step and a twinkle in his eyes, Elias glanced at him with a mixture of disbelief and resignation. "Linus, what in the world has gotten into you?" Elias asked, his brow furrowed in concern. "Hey, bro, check out my new watch. It totally seals the deal with the ladies," Linus drawled, flashing a blingy timepiece that gleamed under the fluorescent lights.

Elias's mouth gaped open. "Linus, you were a prodigy in the science department. A budding genius. And now look at you. What happened?" Linus chuckled smugly. "Who needs all that nerdy stuff when you've got charm, huh? Aron showed me the way. Now I'm living the dream, man." He slapped Elias on the back with a booming laugh, his once soft voice now laced with a newfound bravado. Elias's eyes widened as he watched Linus saunter over to the water cooler, surrounded by a flock of female co-workers hanging on his every word. Elias, torn between disbelief and resignation, approached the boss of the sales department, hoping for a glimmer of some solidarity. "He's dumb as a rock but knows how to use his good looks for successful sales. I guess, you should produce more of them, Elias," the boss remarked casually, not a hint of recognition for the man Linus used to be. In a moment of resignation, Elias turned to Linus, his once-friend, now a mere shell of his former self. "Linus, I need your help with something," Elias began, the weight of his words heavy on his chest. "I need a sample of your...cum." Linus, now devoid of his former depth, chuckled thoughtlessly. "Sure, man. Anything for you," he replied with a vacant look in his eyes, his once keen mind reduced to nothing but a mindless echo of Aron's.

And so, Linus and Elias drifted apart, their once unbreakable bond shattered by the cruel twist of fate. What was once a story of scientific discovery and friendship had now morphed into a tragic tale of lost intellect and shattered dreams.

[museincarnate]

THE END OF PEACE...

(The beginning of a grand story, told by museincarnate and @dragvnsovl)

Approximately a year after two Saiyans, Shuen and Torno, had managed to prevent the end of all of existence, at the hands of an ancient being called Svandur, peace had become somewhat commonplace, in the universe of Sol-Lago. A point of origin for the Paradox and Mighty Saiyan, the majority of their lives had been spent battling with one another; leaving them unaware of the universe around them. With a newfound, lasting peace, the duo took it upon themselves to explore their own universe, studying its vastness, and the beings that inhabited it.

However, briefly after their imprisoning of Svandur within the Eternal Hourglass, which once housed Kronus, who fused himself with Svandur to allow existence itself to be saved, the duo of Shuen and Torno had met a Lagomorph woman named Tater, and a Luparian named Tazz, who both quickly became essential parts of their lives, in their own ways; the former traveling with Torno and Shuen, on their researching expeditions across Sol-Lago, while the latter had taken to the company of Hakkona and Yujin: Torno's daughter and Shuen's son, who had both amicably ended their relationship with each other, after they had their second child together.

During one of Shuen, Torno and Tater's expeditions, Hakkona and Tazz had made plans to go to the mall together, while Yujin stayed home to take care of his daughter, Aitez; the two women having meant to go shopping together, but not managing to, partly due to how often small, criminal activities earned their attention, to be settled. Arriving to the mall, the Saiyaness had already managed to spot a sign near the entrance of one of the clothing stores on the upper floor, and quickly pointed up at it, so that the Luparian could see it, too!

"Tazz! They have a sale going on! I heard the clothes you can get there are pretty cute, and even compliment physiques like ours!" Obviously making a friendly compliment towards Tazz, the Buff Gal was moreso excited about apparel that fit her and Tazz's remarkable, muscular frames, while she'd already begun heading towards the escalator that connected the lower and upper floors to each other. "Come on, we have so many places to check out!" The Saiyaness's tail would seem to sway about rather giddily from the moment the duo entered the mall through its automatic doors, while Hakkona had to keep herself from excitedly taking the Luparian's hand.

Entering a mere few moments after the two women, however...

A hooded figure, with his face obscured from anyone's immediate view, kept his gaze locked upon them, while he'd trailed them since before they'd even reached the shopping center's doors. Pocketed hands kept most of his features further hidden from the wandering eyes of anyone around him, as he kept his movements and distance deliberately inconspicuous. The sway of the Saiyan woman's tail would draw further focus from the unidentified figure, as she and her wolf-like friend began their ascent of the moving stairs to the next floor; leaving him to wait until they'd reached closer to the upper floor, to step onto the contraption himself, and follow them even more.

Unaware of anyone near them, however, Hakkona would keep giddily ushering her Luparian gal pal towards the store, while she'd already started eyeing up a few clothing items that she thought would look nice on Tazz; hoping that she had a good understanding of her best friend's taste in fashion. When approached by an employee, and inquired about needing any assistance, however, the Buff Gal, for her sheer size and intimidating appearance... Clammed up; her cheeks turning pink, as she shook her head awkwardly. "U-Uh... Not at the moment, n-no! U-Unless you need something, Tazz?" Glancing at Tazz, Hakkona was practically begging her to help her escape the interaction, since she was rather socially shy, with strangers.

Offside, outside of the store, the hooded figure's pocketed hands had balled themselves into slight fists, as he walked away from the proximity of the two women; remaining, however, within a range that he could still see them, while he acted as though he was looking at other stores.

[blueshistorysims]

June 1923, London, England

It seemed as if Wilhelmina and Jack’s party had awoken some sort of hedonist spirit within him. Any previous attempts he’d tried to make with his duties as a peer were forgotten—not that it mattered anyway, most people in the House of Lords disliked him regardless. The Ritz became his home base, splitting his time between the hotel and the house of various friends, both old and new. 

Within three months, he was sure that he’d nearly tripled the number of people he’d had sex with, which Giselle and Francesca had mercilessly teased him about, but it had many advantages, and it seemed like with every new person he shared a bed, he received two invitations to social events, whether it be parties, dinners, soirees, etc. Being around people with similar tastes and interests also allowed him to find suggestions and people read the work he’d done in person, not just via letters, and by the middle of June, he felt that his translation and commentary of The Epic of Gilgamesh was good enough to be sent to the publishers and editors.

Giselle, on the other hand, after months of slaving day and night in her sewing room as Francesca handled sales and customers, it seemed that their little boutique was taking off, and most women living in Central London were seen wearing some of her designs. 

Shortly after opening one morning, a woman dressed finely walked into the shop, inquiring for a party dress. Francesca, who still setting up their latest model, looked surprised. No one came this early in the morning.

“Good morning, ma’am, how can I help you?���

“Um, is Miss Walsh in?”

“Oh, yes, she’ll be down in a moment or so.” She chuckled. “She likes to sleep in.”

The other woman smirked as she looked around. “A friend of a friend recommended this place, and I can see why now. These are lovely.”

Francesca beamed with pride. 

Giselle stepped out from her sewing studio, looking surprised that they already a had customer. “Oh, good morning, I hope you weren’t waiting long.”

“No, of course not. Miss Walsh?”

“That would be me.”

She sighed in relief. “Oh, thank you. I’m attending a party, and I was hoping to get a dress. I was told you do custom designs for customers.”

“Yes, um we can head back for measurements now if you wish, Ms…”

“Lady Lyton.”

Francesca’s eyes widened. The Countess of Lyton was their dress shop! Giselle looked less impressed, only giving Francesca a side glance. “Oh, I’m sorry, your ladyship, I wasn’t aware.” She turned to her partner. “There’s a countess in our dress shop.”

“We’ve had a duke.”

“Your brother doesn’t count.”

The Countess raised a brow. “Walsh… Your brother is the Duke of Feldsbury?”

“Yes. Have you met him?”

“I first met him at a party two months ago—we are mutual friends with Mrs. Jack Porter. He’s a bit of a Casanova, but he's handsome, very intelligent, and makes delightful conversation.” She smirked. “My husband, on the other hand, finds him impertinent.” 

Francesca snickered. 

“That sounds like my brother. …He was forced to accept the title and its responsibilities when not even being aware of it until after the war, so he cares very little of what society thinks of him and will likely do everything in his power to dredge the name of the late duke.”

The Countess nodded. “Well, I never liked the late duke.”

“Well, back to your request, your ladyship. When is the party?” Giselle asked, grabbing her notepad and pencil.

“Four days from now.”

Giselle frowned. “And you want a custom dress?”

“Yes.”

“I’m sorry, but a custom design and pattern would at least take me two weeks, my lady.”

Lady Lyton sighed. “Oh. I see.”

“Well,” Francesca interrupted, gesturing to the dress she’d just set up, “I saw you admiring this, and Miss Walsh only finished it yesterday. There is no other dress like it, and tailoring at most only takes a few days if we do measurements now.”

Giselle nodded eagerly. “Yes, and if you wish, I could add some extra embellishments if desired, and it could be ready to be picked up the morning of your party.”

The Countess looked impressed. “You ladies know how to work a deal.” She glanced at the dress. “I will be telling everyone I know about the Duke of Feldbury’s sister and her delightfully modern dress shop.”

Giselle and Francesca couldn’t help but beam. 

[artsybelle1015]

Suicidal in Twisted Wonderland

Grim found your calendar, and it all goes downhill from there.

Genre: Angst/Hurt Comfort

trigger warnings(!!!): the mc is SUICIDAL, talks of suicide and plans, heavy topics not for the faint of heart or odd mindset, spoilers only if you haven’t gotten that far into the game, reader uses they/them pronouns

•••

“[Y/N]?”

“Yes, Grim?”

“Why doesn’t your calendar go to next month or any month after that?” Grim scoffed. “I needed to put the tuna sales there to remind you.”

Ignoring his comment on tuna, your eyes widen. You had never expected him to bother looking at a calendar, especially yours since you usually filled it up with test dates. But as of lately, you had planned to take your own life by the end of the month, exhausted of dealing with this school and your inability to go home.

“Henchmen!” Grim hollered.

You shot up out of your seat, emotions swelling in you. Yes, you had planned this out for awhile, but being confronted by someone other thank yourself about your calendar sting a part of your heart. Without thinking, you ran to the door, tears welling in your eyes.

Panic ensued within Grim, he saw this unnatural reaction and leaped back, getting on all fours and hunching his back up. Heavy pants emerged from his mouth.

He had never seen you behave like before. In specific terms, he was worried and scared. You ran off to who knows where.

Getting back into shape, Grim rushed to the door, jumping repeatedly to pull the doorknob down.

“Stupid legs,” he uttered, coiling his body and springing up, catching the handle and weighing it down.

Finally, now the door was open he ran out in search of you.

Grim felt terrified, you ran off wordlessly. Although he doesn’t like to admit, he cares about you, and he doesn’t want you getting hurt.

Having no sense of which way you went, he first ran onto the campus because that’s where you two frequented most. He wondered if you went to Heartslabuyl since you’re closest to Ace and Deuce, and without thinking much further he bolted to the Mirror Chamber,

Whilst he ran and entered, he wondered why some stupid incomplete calendar made you react this way. Or was it something he said?

“Grim!” called a confused voice, the voice belonging to Ace. “The hell are you doing here?”

Followed behind was Deuce, both in dorm uniform as it was the weekend.

“My henchman is gone!” Grim hollered.

“Wait, what do you mean?” Deuce inquired, slowly and gently picking up Grim.

Taking a panicked breath, Grim exclaimed, “I showed them a calendar and they just ran off…”

“That’s odd,” Ace commented. “Why?”

“Well no matter, we have to act on this now!” Deuce declared, voice shaking. “We must do what it takes and find them!”

“Shit, how?” Ace inquired.

“Yeah they could be anywhere! And I want my henchman back!” Grim hollered, wiggling out of Deuce hold.

Deuce let Grim hop to the ground, standing up straight and proud, right hand over heart. “I know just the guy.”

___

Pathetic. You were pathetic, sitting in the woods sobbing on the ground.

You thought you hid yourself well, but Grim has to snoop through your calendar, revealing that you wouldn’t make it past next month.

It was so tiring, you were so tired, you had been there for everyone, but who had been there for you? No one, that’s who. Ever since coming to Twisted Wonderland, you had been thrusted into dangerous situation without warning, hurt way too many times to count, and Crowley is abusing your desperate state. You were so sick of it, you loved your friends so much, but you know they would never understand your pain. The overblots you faced has scarred you.

Even so, a part of you knew Grim didn’t understand what the calendar meant, he was simply confused and asking why. Oh God, you thought. How would he live without you?

That was the reason you broke down, you didn’t want to face people about your problems. You only kept it deep down and inside, maybe if you had talked to people they would recognize your pain. They’re all eighteen or younger, it’s unfair to expect them to know so much. Now it felt humiliating to go back.

“Child of man?” a voice spoke.

You whipped your head over to see the friend you called Hornton. Normally he stayed around the house, why was he so deep in the woods?

He seated himself next to you, staring at you, he looked concern. “What troubles you?” he inquired.

The setting sun and shadows of the tree swallowed his face, but his eyes shone. They reflected hints of yellow and pink as they bored into you

Tears walled up more in your eyes, so you looked down in the ground in shame. The grass was your best friend now, the only thing that wouldn’t look at your in judgment.

You were a horrible friend, making Grim and possibly now Ace and Deuce worried, running off out of nowhere. You should have sucked up the feelings and lied out of your teeth, it would’ve been for the better and you wouldn’t have to be here.

Hornton just kept staring though, making you want to cry even more. You decided to curl up and hide your face between your legs, in hopes he would leave.

But you could feel the eyes staring at you, intensely. He was still waiting an answer from you.

“It’s stupid,” you blurred out in a weak voice.

No, you didn’t want to die, that was dumb of you to think. You’re fine, it’s fine, you won’t leave them. Just hold on another few months, you could manage that, right?

“Is it?” he asked.

The question shocked you a bit, making you raise your head up and look straight at him, his facial expression seemed rather lost. Your eyes were bloodshot and wide, staring straight into his neon green ones. It wasn’t, if this has been anyone else you would’ve told them it’s okay.

He spoke again, “If it is what you can ‘stupid’ why are you crying a lot over it?”

Wiping your eyes, you looked away and chuckled a bit. “In your time of living, have you ever wished to be dead?”

“I feel that is natural to think.”

“No,” you uttered. “Like you really want to be dead so you planned it out.” It wasn’t a question anymore, you know that he most likely didn’t.

“Why do you wish to be dead?”

“I’m so exhausted all the time, and i’m not getting better. I already came into this world feeling horrible and it’s only gotten worse.” You looked back to your closest ally, the grass. “And I feel like no one cares.” It felt like you couldn’t control the words coming out, like they were itching a way to escape, all you needed was to tell someone even if you necessarily didn’t want to.

A soft sigh sounded, not of being upset, but it felt like it was empathetic. You faced him again and he slowly lifted his hand, rubbing the top of your head softly.

There was no time to question this sudden affection, you lunged towards him and tackled hug. Sobbing into his chest. His arms were so comforting it was unreal. He cared.

“I do not wish for you to die, child of man,” his voice softly rang. “So please, stay a little longer.” Though his pitch started to sound broken, like a part of him was hurting.

“I’m sorry!” you cried, grabbing at his blazer. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry.”

He only rubbed your back and remained silent.

As your wails began to fade, he held you closer and spoke once again, “It is time for you to rest.”

Everything faded to a comforting black and silence.

___

It was a peaceful moment, you were content, you felt rested. It was a perfect state.

Now, it was time to awaken unfortunately.

You expected to wake up in the woods, but instead what awaited was the Ramschakle ceiling and the familiarly feeling of your bed.

Questions rang through your mind if you had dreamt it all, but was quickly shot down when Grim lunged at your chest whimpering.

“Henchman!” he choked. “Don’t leave me like that again!”

He curled up into you, nuzzling his face against yours which flabbergasted you. You never expected him to be so affectionate like this, much less care as a whole.

“Oh sevens, finally!” You looked over and saw Ace, his breath quick with panic.

Deuce came up too. “I’m so happy you were found.”

“It’s a good thing I remember your scent well,” called out Jack.

They were all in the room with you, they were waiting for you to wake up, they tried to find you.

“Why did you run off Prefect?” Ace questioned, leaning besides you. “Did Grim say something dumb?”

“I said I just asked about the calendar!” Grim hissed, standing in defense.

Right, the calendar, what started this mess. There was no dreaming this, it was time to face the truth, which caused you to cry once again and feel pathetic.

Grim jumped back into your stomach in surprise. Ace eyes widened in horror.

Deuce cleared his throat, though he sounded shaky. “Clearly there was something important on that calendar and we shouldn’t push them about this, it isn’t right!” he announced.

“I agree.” Jack nodded.

But you just brought your hands to your eyes and bawl every tear that held back against your waterline. It started with a dam having minor leakages, to full on breaking. You wanted to tell them everything.

“Yeah, I’m sorry,” Ace mumbled, standing up. “I shouldn’t have asked.”

Before he could walk away, you grabbed his hand, holding it tightly that is showed you were begging him to stay. You looked at him, lip quivering, staring into his unmoving distressed yet confused face.

You had to tell them, they were your friends and they clearly cared. All eyes laid on you now.

“I was planning to kill myself next month!” you blurted out, heart stopping because of the silence. Now you were horrified you messed up. “That’s why… the calendar upset me, I cut the other months off because I didn’t want to plan anything to keep me alive.” You were about to pull the covers over yourself to hide again.

“Don’t leave me!” Grim howled, tears in his eyes, he jumped at you again, closer this time, pouring all his own tears out.

You quickly hugged him.

“You can’t die on us!” Ace retorted, but quickly he grabbed onto you and pulled you for a hug.

“Prefect we need you,” Deuce anxiously said, staring at you with pleading eyes.

Jack even stood up, rubbing the back of his head a bit. “Life wouldn’t be the same without you.”

“Yeah!” Ace was not tearing up too. “We’re all suppose to be a group, remember? We wouldn’t be here without you.”

“You helped us through so much…” Deuce looked to the ground in shame. “But we failed to help you! We’re horrible friends!”

Grim was staying desperately close despite Ace’s tugging. “Who will I have to feed me and wake up with me and go to class with me!”

“You’re important to our lives, [Y/N],” Ace muttered softly. Despite his personality, he can quite soft and comforting.

“I’m sorry,” you manage to utter. “I’m sorry that I’m also making you feel like horrible friends.” More shame and guilt rose into you.

Deuce ran over and answered, “No! We’re the ones who should be sorry!”

“I think we pushed you too much,” Jack exclaimed, sitting next to you on the bed.

“You took care of us,” Deuce whimpered, he also began to become a sad mess, “now let us care for you.”

“Yeah! You don’t need to buy me that tuna!” Grim whimpered. “I just don’t want you to leave me.

Although you spent way too long sobbing in their arms, you knew you had people who cared for you.

___

It remained an oddly peaceful night, it seemed everyone was on their best behaviors. Of course, that only lasted a short amount of time. Though, it was relieving since there was a sense of normalcy in that.

You looked out from the porch, staring at the closed off gate. The reason for your stares was thoughts of your friend rolled by. You wish he would come and visit soon, but that seems to be not the case.

Even so, you knew it had meant nothing personal about you, he did find himself in different places at different times.

You only wish to thank him for his comfort and the restful slumber.

Peeking back inside, you could see Grim on the kitchen table with a box of crayons. He resembled a little kid, he was making more months for the calendar that he declared you must live through since he’s working so hard to create it.

Everyone in there you had told you felt guilt over them going through all this, but they assured you they would rather know so you don’t hurt more.

Although, you still felt the same about your suicidal feelings, you at least had the comfort to know people knew how you felt and would stop you. You were loved, a fact that you would now have to start drilling into your head, and that was a reason to keep going.

•••

a/n: shockingly, i have not seen people play around with this concept and it was such an inspiring thing for me. it was also for some self indulgence, i may do it more in the future with other characters and optional crushes.

also i don’t know much about malleus so i’m going on gut instinct here sorry if he’s ooc!

[slutsukio]

sativa. ( weedman!suguru x blk!femreader )

the unmistakable sensation of approaching the tinted windows of suguru's sleek, wide bodied black hellcat filled the air with anticipation. the low hum of the powerful engine hinted at the potency that lay within, a parallel to suguru's enigmatic persona.

as you reached the car, the subdued glow of the streetlights illuminated the graffiti covered walls of the cladestine spot suguru always sold at. you walked closer and closer to the drivers windows, and he rolled it down, greeting you with a lazy smile, exhaling a leisurely puff of smoke from his blunt. the interior if his car was foggy and smokey, and you knew he was smoking for a while before you even came.

"well, well, look who's back," he drawled, the wry smile playing on his lips echoing the mystique that surrounded him. it was your first visit back to him, after almost two months. back in your sophomore year of college, you were a die-hard pothead. you'd visit him three to four times a week, and the routine had become a familiar dance back then. but, one thing turned into another and he'd always end up fuckin' up your pretty little pussy, echoed moans would bounce off of your dormitory walls, letting everyone know you were his.

but, thats besides the point because you came to get what you wanted. "why you make it so complicated, suguru?" you asked, followed by a nonchalant eye-roll. you casually leaned inside the open window of his sleek car, your slender fingers deftly navigating the crevices to retrieve the blunt out of his muscular fingers.

bringing the well-rolled blunt to her glossy lips, you took a languid and deliberate inhale, relishing the rich and smokey goodness that enveloped her senses, creating a sensory tapestry of delight. savoring the moment as if time slowed down, you held the intoxicating essence within your system, before finally exhaling a plume of smoke, watching it lazily dissipate into the air, leaving a transient and ethereal trace of your indulgence lingering in the atmosphere.

accompanied by a mischievous giggle that echoed through the stillness of the night, you took a leisurely stroll to the passenger side of the car, each confident stride a harmonious dance with the rhythmic stomp of her uggs on the concrete floor, their cadence a subtle declaration of her self-assured presence. when you got to the side of the car, you heard a slight click and the door opening, seeing suguru spread out over the middle of his car, to open up the door.

she sat down in her reserved spot that awaited her return, an unspoken promise nestled with the confines of that space. with an air of playful confidence now enveloping her like a cloak, she turned to face him, the glint in her eyes evolving into a teasing sparkle that danced with mischief. "missed me?" you inquired with a mischievous glint in your eyes, your gaze lingering on him as you handed him the blunt back, the tendrils of smoke intertwining with the air. with a subtle smile, you scooted over, closing the distance, and planting a lingering kiss on his jawline, the warmth of the gesture accentuated by the shared exhale of the smoke-filled moment.

"how could i possibly miss you," he answered jokingly, his tone laced with playful teasing as a mischievous glint danced in his eyes, the warmth of shared banter hanging in the air. you heard his breath hitch imperceptibly at the sudden kiss on his jawline.

as you chuckled, playfully pushing sugura away, you observed him with a mischievous grin as he turn on his car, the engine revving with a distinctive growl, signaling the departure from the familiar confines of the old park where he routinely conducted his sales. as the wheels began to roll, navigating the urban terrain, it seemed that not a single though occupied suguru's mind regarding his destination. with a sigh, you found solace in the soft glow of your phone, it's bright light casting an illuminating aura on your pretty face, before gently placing it down.

as suguru continued to drive, his focus fixed on the road ahead, you couldn't help but sneak glanced in his direction, curious about the direction his whims would take him. amidst the rhythmic hum of the engine, your gaze met suguru's, his attention momentarily diverted from the road. "whats the matter, princess?" he asked, sensing the subtle shift in your emotions reflected on your face. the fleeting moment of connection hung in the air, as the urban landscape passed by, encapsulating the unspoken dynamics between you two in the cocoon of the moving vehicle.

before sighing and sinking into your seat, you admitted, "school's been stressin' me, 'guru." the admission hung in the air, accompanied by a sense of vulnerability, and you could tell from suguru's perceptive gaze that he had already deduced the cause of her sudden reappearance.

"what's got you stressed out?" a slightly concerned tone, laced with genuine worry, and maybe even a hint of empathy, rang through his voice as he took another hit from the blunt, the fragrant tendrils of smoke swirling in the air between you two.

"just the fact that all these tests are coming up, i've got like three long-ass writing assignments due next week, and trying to balance my social and academic life." you expressed with a sigh, your shoulders sagging under the weight of her responsibilities, just as suguru extended the blunt toward her, offering a momentary reprieve in the form of the last few lingering puffs.

he lingered in silence for a thoughtful moment, contemplatinf his options and considering the words or actions that would follow, before a subtle smirk etched across his features. with a calculated nonchalance, he proposed, "how bout we head to waffle house, head back to my place, smoke some more, and then we fuck?" a wide smile plastered on his face once more, before you smiled and planted another kiss on his jawline.

"sounds like a plan, baby."

❁ suki speaking — idk weedman suguru been in my mind for a while after i saw this lil prompt on tt. but enjoy!! <3

[deli-writes-kiss-fics]

Led Zeppelin & Sweet Drinks - Eric Carr x fem reader

MDNI (SLIGHTLY SUGGESTIVE STUFF)

-------

I don't know how many words but it's kinda long sorry lol. It'll be a two-parter if there's enough interest.

Not proofread - sorry for any mistakes. Love you all. Please reblog and show some love, I'd really appreciate it!

------

April 9th 1976

Slow was the summer rain that fell against the window of a quaint little coffee shop on the corner of the street you lived on, just opposite the record store where you gazed lazily among its customers. You couldn’t say for certain how frequently you visited both the cafe and the record store but it was enough to be cheery with the owners and get free drinks or for the man behind the counter to hold back any newly released albums they thought you may like before they sell out. You had grown quite fond of the two places over the last couple of years, you wouldn’t say you were too much of an extrovert or introvert, perhaps you were a bit of both depending on the occasion. Nevertheless, you enjoyed your Friday afternoons where you had the day off, you worked two jobs which were both contrasting and yet in some way vaguely connected if you thought about it enough. You worked mainly as a magazine packager for a well known interior design magazine where you packed orders to be sent off for those with a subscription. It was repetitive which you didn’t mind so much but your second job was a lot more to your likening as a music lover; you worked any free shifts at the record store, it was rare to get a shift but it was nice to help out when you could. You swirled what was left of your drink in your cup, glancing down just long enough to decide whether you wanted another but you ultimately placed your cup drown and grabbed your things, eyes set on the record store where you knew, surely, Reggie had something waiting for you behind the counter.

You steps quickening as you passed over the road, waving to a incoming car before slowing down as you made it to the sidewalk, a few more steps and you were pushing the door open to the store and giving a wave to the middle aged man with salt and pepper hair that stood behind the counter, watching him tap it as a means to tell you he had something you’d want to collect. He had taken you under his wing when you had first moved to the area, graciously giving you your first job while his son was away at college. You strode up enthusiastically, passing someone as they were leaving.

“Whatcha got for me, Reggie?”

“I think you’re gunna like this one. It sold out pretty quickly so I knew I had to snag you one.”

“Well, that sounds promising! Hit me with your best shot”

“Lee Zeppelin. It’s called Presence. I can’t keep up with you youngsters these days” he chuckled as he handed over the record for you to see.

Your face lit up at the sight of the pristine album, you couldn’t of handed over the money quick enough and within a matter of a moment the item was bagged and you were itching to get home to listen to it.

“Thanks again, what would I do without you?”

“You wouldn’t have had to buy an extra three record cases” he remarked.

You laughed and moved to look at what was in the sale section, though you hadn’t the room for more records, looks like you’d have to buy yet another case. You couldn’t help but have your attention snagged when you heard a strong New York accent inquire about the album you had just purchased. And you recognised the disappointment in their tone when it was revealed it was sold out. You knew all too well that sinking feeling and you turned to glance as the man, made of mostly hair, decided to also browse what was being sold. You turned away when he moved along closer as he scanned the covers, not looking up, just shuffling sideways, much like you were doing. Your fingers flicked through the album one by one, caught in the surge of curiosity of what you could find as you meticulously scanned, like you had done so many times before, every Friday for the past couple of years. You weren’t paying attention and neither was someone else by the looks of it as you felt an arm bump into yours and quick

“Sorry-!” His voice was followed by the dash of a closed-lip smile

“No problem…” you were quick to respond, with your own smile too except you were beaming without meaning to.

“You…uh- looking for anything in particular?” He perked up as he still looked through the collection of ‘60s hits and compilations.

“Uh- no. No not really, I just like to browse. Though I’m sure I’ve seen every record in this store at least three times before now” you joke which earns a chuckle from him also.

“Bit of a music junkie then huh”

You laughed at his comment and moved along and in turn he took your previous spot. You both contently followed that pattern for about five minutes, only looking over when one of you pulled up album to read the front or back, taking curiosity in each other’s interests and piqued attention. You stopped to glance at your watch and realised you had to get back home to tape a rerun episode of The Ghost Busters where two men and their pet gorilla hunt spooks. You were about to wave and leave but something tugged in your chest, looking down at your bag. You sighed quietly and turned back around to face the man.

“Hey- listen. I feel like you would appreciate this more than me, seeing as you asked after it at the counter. I’m Y/N, by the way.” You piped up as you thrusted the bag almost into his hands.

“Uh- what do you mean?” He asked before looking in the bag. “I can’t take this- you paid for it and everything”

“Call it a favor. This means you owe me. So…”

“Eric. And really this is too much-“

“Eric, how about…you take me on a coffee date? As friends-! I’m always looking for ways to connect with people, especially if they like music as much as me” you chuckled and started to move toward the door.

“Okay- yeah…what day?”

“Tomorrow?”

“Can’t. Sunday?”

“Okay! Sunday! Lunch time at the cafe opposite here!” You called as you left, hurrying off back to your apartment.

You made it home just in time, barely. The fact that you had just got a date of sorts with a handsome man hadn’t hit you until after you set the VHS recorder up. You were still getting used to it since it was all brand new stuff and though your very skilled friend had told you many times, you had still managed to mess up a few times. After that ordeal, you finally pulled off your bag, jacket and shoes and discarded them next to your velvet-feel green couch. You moved almost sluggishly to your kitchen and put on your coffee machine, the good ol’ Bunn-O-Matic coffee maker which your aunt had gifted to you as your moving-out gift. It kept you running during busy weeks like this. As you watched the coffee drip into the pot, moving to grab your favourite mug from the cupboard above, placing it down but not letting go as it finally sunk in that you had a date. You actually had one. Okay, maybe it was just a friend date as you had blurted out but still…maybe there was a chance. He was gorgeous after all. And that smile….wow, he could’ve had you fainting with just that.

With your cup ready in its entirety, you just had to pour the coffee before taking your cup of happiness to your window chair in the kitchen, grab the book you’re halfway through and sink into one of your favourite parts of the day.

Saturday flew by, and your morning was filled with housework while you had some errands to run you would usually have done on Sunday but as you now had plans, you had to undertake the tasks early. Once you were home you had laundry to tackle, there was a particular outfit you wanted to wear and unfortunately, it seems it had been wasted on your big trip to the grocery store earlier this week. So you were going to wear it and look damn good in it.

Sunday 11th

The morning came, and you got a surprisingly good amount of sleep which gave you a good feeling about the day, you just hoped it stayed going good. One of the new songs from KISS's new album came on the radio; Flaming Youth from their new album Destroyer. You smiled, glancing over to your poster that displayed The Demon, The Starchild, The Catman and The Spaceman. The song reminded you of how things were like between you and your parents when you would listen to music that they didn't understand when you were younger, not so much younger. And nothing had changed other than the fact you had your own place and no one to complain.

You had discovered KISS when you were on a naughty night out after work, which you shouldn't have done given it was a Tuesday and you had work the next day. But you somehow ended up at the Popcorn Pub with two of your friends who were born and raised New Yorkers. The pub was way quieter than you were expecting but you had been happy to sit somewhere more docile with a drink and your friends, having just come from a packed club. And then these four guys with white facepaint and instruments rocked up, you remember just sitting there with piqued interest and a confused look plastered on your face but you remained open-minded. It took a few songs but you grew to love it. You were totally in your element by the end of the night and you were sad when it came to an end. Eventually, you stumbled home to your small apartment at the time, you missed work the next day.

The memory made you smile, the song was long over when you came back to earth. Sighing as you moved to make yourself a strong cup of coffee, needing a boost to get your butt in gear. You wanted to give your apartment the once over before you left just incase you ended up back here with Eric. Unlikely but not impossible. You plodded to the couch, flicking on the news to see what was going on in the world. Boring. Politics and votes. Nothing of interest to you. You switched over and watched some random rerun of a soap. You eventually found yourself nursing an empty cup as the credits rolled, glancing at the clock before you realised you had to get moving. Like. Now. Or else you'd be late.

"Damn-!"

You scurried around getting your clothes out of the dryer which you had left running way too long and knew you'd pay for it later, literally. You pulled on your clothes while trying to do other things at once and failing. You finally were dressed, shoving your feet into some shoes haphazardly as you nearly fell trying to walk in them too soon, hunting down your jacket and bag. Finally, you make it out the door with everything, hopefully.

---

You push open the door to the cafe, the bell above the door announcing your arrival, prompting its customers to glance your way. You slow your pace, looking for a familiar set of brown eyes. You didn't find them but you did hear someone behind you, you realised to should move out of the way, moving in ans turning to apologise.

"Sorry...I didnt- oh"

Well, it seemed that timing was on your side, Eric had turned up just about the same time as you. You couldn't help but smile at the chances.

"I was worried I was going to be late. Let's go find a seat?" Eric spoke up and motioned for you to walk ahead.

You nodded and moved towards the other end of the cafe, sitting in the comfy seats nestled in the corner. You both got settled and looked at the menu.

"I always look at the menu but end up getting the same thing I always get anyway..." You comment

"That is...very true. How about we pick each others drinks. Take a chance?"

You thought for a moment. "Alright. Let's hope it goes well" you laugh.

"I usually get a coffee, but only one cup. It's rare I have a second cup unless I'm really drained" Eric admitted, you nodded along. You knew not what to pick now.

"I get hot chocolate, usually." You inform which earns a simple nod before you both turn your attention fully back to the menu.

You browse the menu with new curiosity, you decide to get an "everything hot chocolate"

You both put in your orders at the counter separately so it would be a surprise. You definitely snuck a few looks at Eric when he wasn't looking, you just had to check him out, he was the definition of eye candy.

"So...Eric. what do you do for work?"

"Ah. It's going to sound super boring but I fix ovens, not the best job but it pays, y'know."

"It's honest work. One that not many think about I suppose. You don't think about that kind of job until you need your oven fixed. Remind me to get your number in case my oven brakes"

"Yeah. Right. That the only reason you'll need me after this date huh? Are you sure your oven ain't broken ans that's why you haven't run a mile yet?" He chuckled.

"Of course not! Who do you take me for? Some con? No. I'm totally just here for your wallet" you joke. As you watch as Eric looks and notices it's gone from the table and his pocket. The panic on his face was comedic. You had sneaked it off the table as he hadn't been looking while you were joking. Moments before you commented about taking it. You offered it back with a smile just as your drinks came.

"Oh. Sly. Very sly." He smirked.

"I've learnt a few better tricks as a kid than taking a wallet when people aren't paying attention. My estranged-ish uncle was a pickpocket and on the days when my parents let him see me, reluctantly, he taught me tricks secretly." You admitted

"Well I'll be checking my pockets before I leave" he laughed a bit.

You thanked the waitress for the drinks and gave a surprised hum. A coffee milkshake. You noticed Eric seemed to be happy with his order of hot chocolate with fresh whipped cream, cocoa powder, marshmallows and a mini cookie on the side.

"Good choice" he said

"Ditto"

You both took a sip of your drinks and nodded in approval.

"So what do you do for work? I told you mine. Now it's your turn."

"I'm a waitress at a fancy restaurant and hotel" You admit as you use the straw to try and eat some of the whipped cream before it all melts away. "It's not much fun but it pays pretty well due to its popularity. Especially if I'm working evenings."

"Honest work. As you said. If there's a need. There'll be a job." Eric spoke truthfully and you nodded in agreement.

For the rest of the date you spoke about everything, and conversation came easily. You debated on music, movies, aliens even. Back to music again and then got into a heated debate about the best sci-fi movie but you didn't come to an agreement but laughed it off anyway.

"So, what do you do in your free time?" Eric asked as you both 6 the cafe and started to just walk. No destination in mind.

"Hm. The only free time I get is usually the weekend. I should've been working today but someone owed me a shift to be covered. But usually I just read or watch shows. I do love Saturday Night Live with a hot drink. God...that makes me sound like a pensioner" You laugh

"No no. You like what you like. You like music though, do you go to concerts?" He asked as you watched while he kicked a pebble out of the way

"Oh yeah. I go to gigs at bars and pubs. I go to concerts whenever I can. I don't even mind if I'm not big on the band. It's about the experience."

"Any bands I'd know?"

"Black Sabbath, Queen, Led Zeppelin and KISS"

"Oh damn-! That's so cool. Looks like I know who to call when there's a good band playing though I haven't really heard any KISS. They good?"

"Yeah. I actually saw their first show. It was at a place called the Popcorn Pub. They've already come a long way. Oh...since we're heading that way anyway, do you wanna go to mine?" You ask as you turn to him and stop, pointing the same way you're both walking.

"Yeah sure. I've got nothing planned." Eric smiled and you nodded.

You ended up in your apartment, kicking your shoes off, Eric followed suit. You lead him to the living room where you both sink into the couch and relax.

"I hope I wasn't too forward with inviting you here. Or even asking you out on a date" you laugh lightly

"Not at all. It's been a while since I've been on a date...and it was surprising but not in a bad way. I've enjoyed myself. It's hard to find people to connect with nowadays. Plus. How many men can say they'd been asked out by a beautiful woman."

A flush came to your cheeks. "I uh...you're not too bad yourself." You said as your voice gets a little caught in your throat. You hear Eric laugh.

"Oh don't get all shy now! Where'd all that confidence go? Was it those huge platform boots that held all your confidence?" He chuckled and it only make you redder.

"Oh whatever" you swat him and laugh. "Want a drink? I've got some homemade lemonade in the fridge."

"That'd be great, thanks"

You nodded and left to get two servings before heading back in, your face less red and you didn't actually feel embarrassed, you felt quite comfortable in Eric's company. You place the drinks down, moving to stand straight before you put a record on, Stevie Wonder's Signed, Sealed and Delivered. You head back to the couch and move to sit down but your foot is caught under the rug, you don't even register that you're falling until you're on top of Eric, your hips on his, your face dangerously close. The only sound is the faint singing and each others ever quickening breaths. You should get off him. You should move. But part of you feels stuck. You can feel your heart in your chest, it feels thunderous to you. And you could swear you could feel Eric's too. He hasn't pushed pushed off yet. His hands had moved to your waist when you fell to catch you and you could feel his grip tighten, you guessed it was an unconscious action but the feeling of his hands on you stirred something inside. A yearning. A want. Your grip on the cushions under Eric tightened, your eyes flickering down to Eric's lips. Fuck. Was that a bad move, you felt Eric shift as soon as your eyes moved from his. You went to speak but nothing came out. You looked back up to meet his suddenly intense stare. You didn't know if it was intentional but Eric's hand placement and grip were pressing your hips into him, the feeling of his bulky jeans made something stir in you. It had to be obvious to him. The way your breathing was picking up. The way your cheeks were reddening. The way you almost closed the gap between the both of you. And then you did it. You made the mistake of squirming.

"I- sorry- I should-" you stuttered out, gulping, you knew you should get up but you ended up squirming more as Eric kept you in place. Did he...want you to stay there? Your gaze moves back to his, you could feel his chest heaving more than before. How his cheeks had grown red. How a particular part of him was a little more obvious than the rest. You could feel it. Finally, Eric spoke. In the softest of tones. His voice barely a whisper. Stuttering out his words a little before he fully said what he wanted to.

"Do you...wanna..."

[untaemedqueen]

At Your Service

Escort!Jeongguk x CEO!Reader

Genre: Strangers to Lovers!AU, Angst, Fluff, Smut

Series Warnings (Will Be Updated): Angst, Fluff, Cold Heartedness, Emotional Trauma, Healing, Smut, Dark Humor

Chapter 6.

The weeks have been slowly ticking on, the countdown to the great nerve wracking wedding continues to approach.

In some way you're more than willing to admit that Jeongguk has been breaking down this barrier you've nailed around your heart for years.

He's become a friend, a good one too. And you'll be the first one to say that although you're not particularly the friendliest of people, he makes it seem like you are.

This man understands you, he seems like he was you not too long ago and you're still trying to understand why.

But you like the company -- his company.

He's asserted himself, wedging himself into your life without a care for how you might take it.

Jeongguk has forced you to become comfortable with him and after the first two weeks of him barging into your mansion like he owns it, you're deeply saddened when he's not there.

You find yourself thinking at times that he's making you dependable on him.

And you think he likes that.

After that afternoon where he barged into your office, you haven't been able to get rid of him.

… Not that you'd really want to, of course.

"Do you know what happens in the gray zone between a solid and a liquid?" Jeongguk asks, holding up an ice cube.

Slowly looking up from the weekly sales report, you notch an eyebrow. "What?"

Guk extends the ice cube towards you with a smile. "The gray zone."

You pick up your glass of wine, blinking at the sheer largeness of the question.

"Oh come on, Y/N!" he groans, dropping the ice cube in his glass and jumping onto the marble island, "ice is clearly understood. It goes from a solid to a liquid because of temperature but what about sand? A grain of sand is solid, you can roll it around and it stays the same. But if you were to put a million of those hard solid pieces of sand in… let's say a funnel it begins to flow like water. What I'm asking is why?"

When he gets like this, all science-y and all big brain sexy, you can see his eyebrows knit together with sheer delight, his beautiful brown eyes widen with the potential knowledge and you find yourself becoming lost in his queries almost immediately.

"I don't know… why does it?" you inquire, setting down your stack of papers.

"No one knows. Which is why I want to know," he jeers, lifting his glass of whisky with a sly smile.

He makes the corners of your lips tug upwards and suddenly you're smiling at his silly response.

"I like when you smile," he breathes above the lip of his glass.

You narrow your eyes at him playfully and he chuckles deeply at the sight.

It's easy for him to pull your emotions from you now. It's also not uncommon for you to smile multiple times throughout the day.

The deep threat of feeling emotions is always on the backburner with Jeon Jeongguk and he likes it that way.

He hasn't told you this but he doesn't want your money… not really anyway. He shouldn't be paid to hang out with a friend.

Which is what he now considers you. He sometimes enjoys spending more time with you than Taehyung and Jimin. With them, he talks about stuff the doesn't seem to matter like sex or women, sometimes fashion or things of that nature. But with you he's himself, he lets his brain breathe and he speaks freely which is something he hasn't done in ages.

Guk also knows that he flirts with you far too much for his own good but he's fucking captivated and it's the only normal response for him.

"Shut up," you gasp, putting your hands to your cheeks.

Setting down his drink, he grabs your hands.

"Why're you always so cold," he whispers, tutting his tongue to the roof of his mouth with disapproval.

"Cause I'm cold hearted," you jest back.

He rolls his eyes softly, holding your delicate hands within his.

"You're not though, you and I both know this," he murmurs, squeezing your hands softly.

There's this air between you both, it's palpable and volatile in its own right and it'll need to be sorted out sooner or later.

"What about you?" you sigh, resting your hands on his knees.

Oh this.

"What about me?" he inquires, trying to skirt away from the topic as soon as possible.

"Don't deflect. That's ugly," you reprimand him softly, picking up your glass of wine.

He hasn't gone into much detail about himself. He feels as though all the words he could possibly say to explain why he is the way he is will just get caught in his throat and there'll be no way to properly express them.

"Oh come on, Gukkie. You'll need to talk to me sometime. I've already opened up to you far more than I expected to," you say above the lip of your glass.

And it's true. He knows about Jasper and Adi all too well, he knows why you are the way you are and he's still a Stanford drop out with a mysterious background and an ex called Chloe that was way too rich.

"I know, I know it's not fair. But I'm just… I'm not ready yet. I'm sorry," he breathes.

You always tell him that it's okay. You always tell him that you'll wait until he's ready like right now. But he does want to let you in. In some way, he feels like he needs to…

When Jeongguk's phone rings, it rips the pleasant silence between you to shreds and when he sees who's calling well time practically stops for him.

"Oh fuck," he whines, running his fingers through his hair.

You watch on with concern, seeing how his hands suddenly shake of fright and your eyes widen hopelessly.

"Grandmother," he announces, putting the phone to his ear.

"Jeongguk, good afternoon. I'm calling because you promised you'd come for tomorrow's tea time. You didn't forget did you?"

He so totally did.

He wanted to pretend like it wasn't actually happening until well… Now he can't help it.

"No! I didn't forget!" he gasps, chuckling awkwardly and earning a scowl of confusion from you.

"Well good because everyone is expecting you and your girlfriend!"

Oh yeah, he lied about having a girlfriend as well…

Nice Guk.

"M-My girlfriend?" he breathes, looking over your mansion helplessly.

Raising an eyebrow, you fold your arms.

He turns to you and you simply blink at his interaction with his kin on the phone.

Suddenly his expression is no longer lost or scared, suddenly he's starting to grin widely.

"My… girlfriend," he repeats with more confidence.

You know immediately what he's up to and you shake your head fiercely.

When you get up to flee, he jumps down from the marble counter to hook his arm around your waist.

"Of course, grandmother. I'll be there tomorrow for tea time with my girlfriend!" he gasps, holding you still.

"Guk!" you hiss softly, wriggling in his arms.

"Well good! I can't wait to see what sort of disappoint you'll be bringing this time! You could always beg for Chloe back, you know. She'll be there tomorrow with Hamish."

Jeongguk swallows thickly, giving his final goodbyes to the older woman before he tosses his phone onto the countertop.

"Y/N just help me out, please!"

"No! I hate people! You know that!" you whine, stomping on his foot to try and get away.

"Please! Chloe's going to be there tomorrow and I can't face her and my grandmother by myself! Pleaseeeeee?!"

Slowly you settle yourself, turning around in his grasp until you're looking up at him with only mere inches away from one another. "You owe me answers then if I'm becoming your escort here."

He rolls his eyes hard, combing some hair back behind your ear. "Fine, but just know that my grandmother is very difficult to please."

"So am I," you retort, turning around on your heel.

"I know," he murmurs, folding his arms and biting his lip nervously.

Well… you'll get all the answers you wish to know and more tomorrow it seems.

The escort couldn't sleep last night, he tossed and turned with Hawking by his side. Every single waking second felt like the worst fever dream of all eternity.

Just knowing that he would have to tell you everything for you to be ready to go to his grandmothers is a scary thought.

He handled your baggage well, but what about his baggage? Would you judge him for his life? Would you hate him for who he turned out to be and why?

So sullenly with a huge cup of coffee and big bags beneath his eyes, he enters your mansion with the spare key you hide beneath the marble statue outside.

To his surprise, you're not up yet.

A thought springs to mind that you stayed up late because you were so curious about him that it was eating you alive last night.

"Y/N?" Guk calls, his voice echoing throughout the large, vastness of your mansion.

He waits a moment, sipping his coffee. When he hears no reply, he's almost sure that you couldn't sleep because your curiosity was killing you.

He begins up your spiralling staircase, looking around at all the sterile wonder this large home has to offer.

He stops at the top of the staircase, staring deeply into the large aquarium that could easily fit fifty fish but your goldfish Piranha is the only one that takes up space in the vastness.

Everything in your life seems to be some sort of symbolism.

"Hey buddy," Guk whispers, crouching down to watch the fish swim to and fro.

The goldfish seems so carefree and with only ten seconds of memory, he can understand why it'd be such an easy state of mind to live in.

Jeongguk watches the pretty orange and black fish for a moment more before he's taking off to your grandiose bedroom.

He knows for a fact that all of these extra rooms within this mansion are completely bare.

It's like you have no memories you wish to keep and you don't dare fill up rooms that could potentially hold weight within your life. You could simply pack up your goldfish and be out of the house before tonight's moon rises.

Your bedroom door is open and he peeks in with little care until he sees you still asleep.

You're dressed in a sheer black satin gown, the straps falling carelessly over your shoulders. The sheets are billowed out and all over the place but you however lay pristine beneath them. Your hair is splayed out on the comfy looking pillows.

But what catches Jeongguk off guard is your expression while you sleep.

You look so soft and so inviting. Your eyebrows aren't knit like most times that he sees you and you're truly serene in your unconscious state.

"Wow," he breathes under his breath, leaning against the door frame of your room.

You look so tiny in your massive bed. Your lips are parted for each soft, carefree breath you take in your slumber and all the escort can think of is how pretty a color they are.

His mind flits to numbing thoughts, like running his thumb over them or gently kissing them until they're a darker color from wanting. Guk wants to pull the oxygen from your lungs with such furious passion. He wants to take you in his arms an--

Suddenly then it's too much and his pink hued cheeks show the emotions that lay stirring in his brain.

He clears his throat loudly, trying to ebb away embarrassment but it stirs you from your sleep too.

When he catches his mistake, he ducks out of the doorway in hopes that you hadn't seen him.

"H-Hello?" you call weakly, your voice laced with sleep.

Jeongguk combs his fingers through his hair, trying to find the will to tuck back every thought before he's stepping into your doorway once more like nothing happened.

"Morning, get up sleepyhead. Times awaistin'," he beams, putting his coffee cup to his lips.

"What fucking time is it?" you grumble wearily, reaching over to look at your phone.

When you move, the way your breasts sway beneath the flimsy silk has Jeongguk planting his feet to the ground in hopes that he doesn't fucking keel right over.

"Time to wake up! We got a lot to do today!" he replies loudly.

Your scowl at him by no means puts him off. If anything he adores it.

"You have a lot to learn," he breathes, watching as you sit up against your headboard.

"I have a lot to learn about what?" you inquire in a mumble, closing your eyes.

"You have a lot to learn about me," he answers, leaving your bedroom altogether.

You decided to take breakfast in the backyard, calling Mercurios to deliver breakfast pastries and coffee.

You can tell that Guk is nervous, he keeps rambling about unimportant shit like he's got some sort of tick but instead of scolding him like you would with literally anyone else -- you just look over your rose bushes.

You don't have many hours left now before you depart to his grandmothers but you're not going to force him to speak of bad memories if he's afraid. It took you a long time to even be comfortable enough to speak your truth.

"I had a fish too when I was younger named Denmark," Guk reveals awkwardly.

"Oh how lovely. What kind?" you inquire, setting down your croissant.

"B-Beta fish," he replies, clearing his throat.

You hum pleasantly, picking up your espresso.

"Oh my God, I'm stalling so badly!" Jeongguk whines, covering his face.

You hum in agreement once more. "You know so much about me Guk and you never judged me. How could I ever judge you? Don't be nervous."

The escort takes a deep, shaky breath staring at you with concerned eyes. He scratches at the tiny stubble on his chin with a sigh. "Alright, let me just get it out then… I guess."

You turn your full attention to him, ripping a piece of your croissant and popping it into your mouth.

While he stares at you, his eyes almost deem to glaze over in a way. He feels like he's staring at a thousand memories all at once and none at all.

"My grandmother," he begins nervously, "is very rich. Richer than… God anybody I've ever known. But my family, my immediate family, is very, very poor. My grandmother and grandfather were two of the first people to ever make store bought kimchi in Korea. They made… a fuckton of money. But they're the type of people that wouldn't give their kids money because they wanted them to make something of themselves."

Jeongguk sets down his coffee, stirring it with his spoon continuously until it seems like it's going to spill right over the edge.

"My mom and dad aren't very… resourceful or smart. My mother never followed in her rich parents footsteps because she felt slighted by them and we ended up living incredibly poorly in a one bedroom apartment for four people. Me, my older brother, my mother and my dad. It was fucking disgusting, there was bugs everywhere and mice and… it was nasty."

Your heart aches as you watch the escort. You watch his eyebrows knit with pure pain and it makes you ache long and deep throughout all of your limbs.

"It was… It was fucking ridiculous how I had to wear clothes that were way too big for me, with holes in my shoes when we went to my grandparents estate for Chuseok or any other Korean holiday… and my grandmother wouldn't care, y'know, she would just tell me to live better when I grew up."

Nothing surprises you anymore but you can't help but be offended and angry for the small boy he used to be.

You shake your head simply, burying the scoff you want to emit deep within your chest.

"A lot of people say that smarts sometimes skip a generation and I was born with an IQ of 165 which is higher than Stephen Hawking, by the way. I was, well I still am, incredibly smart and I always did well in school. I liked school even if people bullied me for being poor because I was fucking good at it. I liked being the best. If I'm being honest, it felt amazing."

You smile at how innocent his expression is when he looks at you, like he's back to being an eight year old that got the highest score on his math test.

"When my grandmother found out how smart I was she was so happy, she wanted me to make something of myself. So she promised me that if I got into a good college to do something respectable she would pay for my tuition. So I worked my fucking ass off to do it. I graduated high school early and got into Stanford when I was seventeen."

"Wow," you breathe, putting your manicured hand beneath your chin as you listen intently.

Jeongguk hums in agreement, picking up his coffee to sip it.

"But," he begins again, something in his tone becoming angrier and bitter, "my grandmother only promised to pay for my tuition. And she wouldn't help me with anything else. I didn't have money for food or for the dorm, I didn't have a car to get to campus of even money to take the fucking bus. She really screwed me. So for the first year, I got by with literally nothing. I couldn't get a job, I wasn't legally an adult to work. No one wanted to hire a kid that was smarter than them to do anything and be held liable by the government."

You cringe softly at his sharp, hurt words.

"Oh Guk," you breathe, grabbing his hand.

He squeezes yours reassuringly before giving you a gentle smile.

"Even on campus, girls thought I was pretty hot even if I was younger than them. And I liked that because everyone used to bully me when I was younger. A couple of the older frat guys eventually offered me a job offer. Y'know, take Liza Crankle to the Beta Phi mixer and they'll give me a hundred bucks or fuck Petal Hubbard in the back of the library for three hundred… things like that… I was so fucking broke and so desperate that I ended up doing everything they asked of me. I was making money hand over fist and suddenly I could afford a nice apartment, could afford something more than cheap, tasteless ramen from the dollar store."

You understand him, he makes his story so heartfelt and so exasperated that you can't help but nod your head along with each word he speaks.

"But after a time the older guys graduated and I was eighteen without any more random income from getting into some girl's pants. The last thing Tony, the guy who kept paying me to do stuff with women, did was hand me a business card for At Your Service. His parents own it. So I started working there immediately. The cash is fucking gold most of the time and I was having the time of my life but my studies kept slipping because I was in dates more often than being in class."

Jeongguk cringes visibly, setting down his coffee. He takes a long, heavy breath before sighing.

"My grandmother was getting reports from the dean on how I was doing in school and she found out I was doing poorly so she started having me followed… When she found out I was an escort…" Guk doesn't continue for a moment, letting the memory wash over him like frigid water, "She slapped the dog shit out of me. She was beyond livid and my first reaction was to get angry. She paid for my tuition, sure, but she didn't help me with any-fucking-thing else. So she told me to quit At Your Service and get a different job like a waiter or something. But I was making like two thousand dollars a week! I could never do that as a waiter! So I refused…"

"What'd she… What'd she do?" you inquire softly.

"Pulled the funding for my schooling," he replies.

He sounds exhausted even talking about the subject.

"Oh God," you breathe, squeezing his hand.

"There was no way I could make fifty six thousand dollars a year to finish. If I tried I-I wouldn't even be in class! So… I dropped out. And I was fine with it for a while, I missed learning to be honest but I distracted myself with clients and sex for a long time. Then I met Chloe, who you'll have the complete displeasure of meeting later."

Just hearing the name of this mysterious Chloe sends you practically rabid. So far what you do know about the wench is that she hurt Jeongguk beyond comparison.

"She's gonna be there?" you ask, widening your eyes.

"Oh yeah! My grandmother loves the little harlot. She's old money, my grandmother eats that shit up like caviar. You should see the two of them… Fucking baffling," Guk seethes through his teeth, slamming his fist down on the table and flattening one of the macarons to a pancake.

"Oh…" you mumble.

"Mhm. Let me tell you all about the devil in prada," he begins with a dark, angry chuckle, "Chloe first hired me to go as her date to her father's sixth wedding. I have tattoos and piercings so she really wanted to just make her dad livid. He's a pretty nice guy, by the way, he just picks conniving women… He raised one too. The thing about Chloe is that she's a fucking good actress. Oh Christ, she's fucking good."

You can barely even function as he speaks, he's acting so angry and appalled -- so emphatic with his words that you're captivated instantly.

"She was pretty. Probably still is, her surgeons are good at keeping her fresh as a daisy. And those were the days when I wanted to fucking bang a cantaloupe if I was gonna get paid for it--"

You can't help your giggle at his ridiculous words and it makes Jeongguk smile widely.

"I still like the way that sounds," he whispers, leaning back in his chair.

You've suddenly cleared all of the anger from his bones with one simple laugh and he's fixated on the way your nose scrunches sweetly.

"So… Chloe?" you inquire.

Clearing his throat, he comes back to reality with a wink that could light the flames of Hell itself. "So I got invested really quickly. I thought she was hot, she was rich… Whatever. Sex wasn't even on the damn table for that wedding but that was alright with me. She acted like she had a good, rich personality, it got me interested and then suddenly the wedding was over. A few weeks go by and I'm still thinking of her when she books me again but for a friend's birthday party… Anyway, she did this about seven more times. She kept getting me more interested in her, she liked all the things that I liked and then finally she paid me to have sex with her. I felt like the fucking president because it was all coming full circle."

You're waiting for the bitter end here and it doesn't disappoint with Jeongguk's next words.

"But it was all fake. We started dating after that night like really dating and I ended up leaving At Your Service because she didn't like it. She wanted to be my sugar momma or whatever the fuck and I was nineteen then so I was like 'fuck, that's dope'. It was not. It turns out that she did research on me and everything that 'we had in common'," he exasperates, curling his fingers to make big air quotes, "was just perfectly researched information. Chloe doesn't have an interesting bone in her tiny body, okay? She doesn't fucking know how to be a person. She uses her money like that's the only thing she's got… Because it is! And then when I found out that we had nothing in common, fuck, she was boring as sin. We started fighting about every-damn-thing. I would sleep on park benches instead of going home, because she made me move in with her! I wanted to fucking--"

Jeingguk begins to wring his hands up in the air and shakes them viciously as his face begins to turn pink from anger.

"I wanted to fucking hurt her sometimes! Or… myself. It was so toxic, Y/N. I can't even put into words just how toxic it all was, seriously. But she would always apologize and I would always forgive because I was scared. She broke me! I didn't have a job or a place to live, she made me dependent as hell!"

"Gukkie," you breathe softly, rounding the table to give him a hug.

He wraps his arm around your waist, pulling you down into his lap like it's normal between the both of you and when you go to object he just hooks his chin over your shoulder. "Just get used to it, I'm doin' it at the wedding too."

He won't say it out loud for fear that it'll scare you but you're comfortable as hell on top of him and you look damn good sitting in his lap like this.

"So, anyway, I started spending more time away from home so I didn't have to fight with her or even see her really. I started spending a lot of time with Jimin and Taehyung, my two best friends and it was better like that for me. But not Chloe, obviously, she started having me followed by a private investigator and she knew I fucking hated that because of my grandmother when I was at Stanford so apparently she literally gave zero fucks about how I felt. She was sure that I went back to escorting and fuck, I wish I did because that would have just pissed her off more. Taehyung and Chim told me, 'Dude, you need to break it off with her. Even if you're scared, it's scarier to be treated that way,' and they were right, y'know. Which isn't often, by the way."

You turn towards him, leaning your lower back against the arm of his chair with a soft smile. "Your friends sound nice."

Guk only rolls his eyes with a chuckle. "They're alright. Maybe you'll meet them one day."

"Maybe," you agree.

The escort sighs softly, leaning back into the chair. "So I broke up with her and it hurt to do it but I did it and it's probably the best thing I've done in years. Got back into escorting and… yeah. That's it. That's my story."

"Do you miss studying?" you inquire, watching him sip his coffee.

He hums thoughtfully, wiping a drop of spilled coffee or two off his upper lip. "Sometimes, yeah. I really love to think and learn. But I can't afford it now and… I'm older. My brain's probably all fried or something."

"From having sex with cantaloupes for money, no doubt," you jeer good naturedly.

"Did you just make a joke?!" Guk gasps, pinching your side playfully.

"I can be funny," you murmur, folding your arms.

He smiles widely, wrinkling his nose with the cute action. "I guess you can."

You sit in silence for a moment and it's so comfortable that you zone out.

"Oh, I wanted to tell you. I'm not taking your money for the wedding."

Your eyes widen and you stutter on syllables before you're able to reply. "Yo-Wh-I… What?! Why?!"

"Cause you're my friend. It's more like a favor. I'm not taking your grape blood money," he breathes, turning his nose up to you.

"Oh Guk, you can't be seriou-"

"As serious as a heart attack. Plus, you're basically paying for it today when you pretend to be my girlfriend," he shrugs nonchalantly.

You look at your phone only to sigh. "I should get ready for the big game. What kind of girlfriend do you want? Sassy and strong or glamorous and deadly?" you inquire, standing up.

"Just you," Jeongguk replies, following you.

"So… depressed?" you ask confused.

"Nope," he beams, popping the 'P', "you're sassy and strong, glamorous and deadly. You're all of it."

"Oh please," you scoff playfully, heading up your spiral staircase.

"Perfect too," he mumbles under his breath, following you up.

What Jeongguk does know is that he would never have gone to this tea thing at his grandmother's if he wasn't going with you. He would have found any old excuse to get out of it. Even going as far as to tell her he was on the way as he sits in his briefs at home with cheese dust over his bare chest -- he's done it before. But you… you make him want to show you off. He wants you to gain that confidence and he wants to be by your side for a while.

<---- Last Chapter     ------> Next Chapter

[lemoncrushh]

Cubicle // 12) Lost in You

STORY PAGE

Word Count: 3084

Tuesday // Roni

What is too soon?

Is it too soon to have these feelings...or any feelings at all? And if I am having feelings, what exactly do they mean? Oh God, I like him. I really like him!

Harry and I had chatted on the phone last night for almost two hours. He's so easy to talk to, like I'm chatting with my best friend, yet he's also very flirty. When we hung up, I felt a mixture of sadness and elation. I went to bed with the image of his smile behind my eyelids, and the feeling of his hands on me.

He was already in the break room when I arrived this morning, his greeting all I needed to perk me up. I sat next to him at the table while we sipped our beverages, saying good morning to those who walked in, including Alice, Fred from the sales department and the young man that sits in the cubicle next to Harry's. Unfortunately, Gerard Holcomb also entered. I said nothing to him, though he made it a point to give Harry the evil eye. Harry flat out asked me for another lunch date in front of everyone, knowing Gerard was within earshot.

We had another nice lunch at Cafe Meringue, and this time as we walked back to the office, he held my hand. Part of me wanted so badly to ask where this was going, but reckoned it wasn't the time nor place. Besides, I know he likes me. This is more than just sex. I'll just take it with ease, the same way he seems to be. But if I'm being honest, my insides are about to explode.

I tried not to think about him too much for the rest of the afternoon, and fortunately I stayed busy and somewhat distracted by some work that Greta and a couple of salesmen had me do for them. I was actually a little surprised that I hadn't seen Gerard come by my desk by the time I was gathering my things at the end of the day. But just as I grabbed my bag and slung it over my shoulder, he appeared, looking a bit disgruntled.

"How was your lunch?" he inquired.

I wanted to tell him it was none of his business, but instead I told him the truth. "It was quite lovely, thank you."

"You and Styles, then, eh?"

I raised my eyebrows, not exactly sure what he was asking. "We had lunch, yes."

"You two are getting along splendidly, I presume?"

I sighed, not really in the mood to discuss Harry and me with Gerard.

"Yes," I replied. "He's very nice."

I stepped towards him then, hoping I could squeeze past him and make my way to the parking lot. But he blocked the space between my cubicle partitions.

"Any plans tonight?" Gerard asked.

"Not really," I said. This bloke doesn't take a hint well, does he? "Just a date with the telly."

I waited for a second, expecting Gerard to say something else, or perhaps ask me out, but he didn't.

"Have to get going," I told him as I was finally able to push past him. "Good evening, Gerard."

I knew he was watching me as I marched down the hall, but I didn't look back.

As soon as I got home, I stripped out of my clothes and put on a pair of grey joggers and a black tank top. Then I pulled my hair back and scrubbed off my makeup. I made myself a quick, easy dinner and sat down in front of the television.

About an hour later, and halfway through a pint of ice cream, I realised I had no idea what I was watching. My mind was elsewhere. To be specific, it was on a certain co-worker with a killer smile and a talented tongue.

As though on cue, my phone rang. I picked it up to see Harry's name displayed. With a tiny bit of giddiness, I answered it.

"Hi, Harry," I greeted.

"Hi," he said. "What are you doing?"

"Um..." I hesitated.

I heard Harry chuckle. "Am I interrupting something?"

"No," I blushed, grateful he couldn't see me. "It's just...your question..."

"I didn't think it was a difficult one."

"Well...that depends."

"On what?" he asked.

"How literal you meant it," I replied.

"Alright," said Harry, "I'll rephrase it. What are you literally doing right now, or that is, when I called?"

I licked my lips, my cheeks feeling hot. "Well...I'm sitting on the sofa eating ice cream. The telly's on, but I'm not really watching it. Because I'm thinking about...something else."

"Oh?"

"I was thinking about you."

I heard Harry sigh, long and deeply. "That's so nice to hear."

"It is?"

"Yeah. 'Cause I can't get you off my mind, either."

I felt my heart beat out of my chest, my face hotter than ever. "Really?"

"Yes," Harry answered. "Really."

There was silence on both ends of the line for what seemed like far too long before Harry spoke again.

"Can I come over?"

"Uh..." I didn't know how to respond. I wasn't expecting his request.

"I know it's a weeknight, but...I'm just dying to see you."

I grinned as I bit my lip. "You just saw me at lunch."

"I know," said Harry. "And that already feels like forever ago."

Why does he have to be so cute?

"Okay," I giggled. "But I'm warning you, I'm already in sweats and I've taken off my makeup."

"Perfect. I'll be there in twenty minutes."

Harry

She'd been thinking about me. I wasn't sure what turned me on more, that, or the image of her lounging in her sweats with no makeup.

I sprinted up her steps exactly sixteen minutes after we ended our conversation. My heart pounded in my chest to the rhythm of my fist on her door. She opened it seconds later, nearly knocking the wind out of me. Anytime I've seen her, whether it's been in work attire, jeans or that sexy little dress she wore on our first date, she's looked absolutely stunning. But this...this is my favourite. She wore grey joggers and a black tank top that fit her perfectly, her nipples poking through as if to greet me hello. Her hair was pulled back in a loose bun, and she wore no stitch of makeup.

"Wow," I mouthed as I exhaled.

As if she was embarrassed, Roni suddenly lifted her arm and crossed her chest, her hand resting on the opposite shoulder beside her stargazer tattoo. I saw the colour rise to her face, causing her cheeks to blush a rosy pink. She was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen. Sucking in her lips, she stepped back, opening the door wider to let me in.

"Can I get you a drink or anything?" she asked when she closed the door behind me.

I shrugged, shoving my hands into my pockets. "Just water, thanks."

She nodded and smiled sweetly before turning toward the kitchen. I stood in the middle of the living room, the television muted on some programme I'd never seen before. I watched Roni for a moment, tempted to follow her and kiss her on her bare neck. Instead, the electronic keyboard in the corner of the room caught my eye. I wondered why I hadn't noticed it before as I walked up to it. I recalled that Roni had told me she played piano the day I met her, and she'd said that only her stepmother and piano teacher called her Veronica.

"Do you play?" I heard a voice behind me ask.

I turned to see Roni standing with two water bottles.

"Oh," I grinned, taking one from her. "Not really. I just know a few things."

Roni reached around me and turned on the instrument. Then she gestured for me to sit on the bench.

"Oh, no," I shook my head. "Please, I'd rather hear you play."

She glared at me a moment, seeming to decide whether or not she wanted to indulge me.

"Alright," she finally said.

She placed her water bottle on the coffee table and sat down in front of the keyboard. Within seconds she was playing a melody which I recognised, but couldn't recall its name. I loved watching her fingers, long and delicate, pressing exactly the right keys at the right moment. Her lips parted slightly, though every so often her tongue would dart out the side in concentration. She sat up perfectly straight, her posture never faltering. It was all very mesmerising. When she finished the piece, she put her hands in her lap and looked up at me.

"That was beautiful," I said, though I didn't mean just the music.

"Thank you," she smiled.

"How long have you been playing?"

"I started lessons when I was ten," she replied.

"Wow," I exclaimed. "You're a professional."

"Eh," Roni shrugged. "I've kind of slacked off a bit. It's not really my passion anymore. Or at least, it hasn't been for the last few years."

"Oh," I said, not wanting to pry. "Well, you're really good. I'm surprised you don't have a bigger piano."

"I did," she nodded. "It's still at my mother's. It's just not easy to move to a flat, so I bought this."

"Ah, I understand."

She bit her lip before turning back to the keyboard. She seemed to tinkle with the keys for a bit before deciding on another piece to play. Again, I was put in a trance watching her. After a minute or two, I had to reach out and touch her. I put down my water bottle and placed my hands on her shoulders, running them down her arms and back up. I could feel the goosebumps rising on her skin underneath my touch. She continued to play as I moved my fingers across her neck and then around to her throat. She closed her eyes and leaned back, her head against my chest, her hands still playing the tune. I bent down and kissed her shoulder, lightly nipping in a trail up her neck to her ear. I slid my hand down the front of her shirt as her breathing quickened, but her playing remained steady.

"Damn, you really are good," I commented in her ear.

"So are you," she sighed, though of course her words meant something else entirely.

I felt myself get hard inside my pants as I pressed my body up against hers. I cupped her breasts with my hands, fondling them and running my thumbs across her nipples. Then I lowered one hand and slid it down inside her joggers. Her breathing got louder and her playing slowed a bit as my finger touched her clit. I shifted my mouth to the other side of her neck, sucking and biting while I continued to caress her. She began to let out little moans while it was apparent she was having trouble concentrating on the piano.

"Oh God, Harry..." she breathed, her hands stalling above the keyboard.

I chuckled in her ear. "Don't stop, baby."

She whined and swallowed, trying her best not to come unglued. It was so sexy. I continued to rub her clit, feeling her juices drip as she squirmed in her seat.

"Oh my God, I can't!" Roni cried as she let go of the keys and reached her hands up to grab my arms.

I threaded my fingers through hers on her left hand while my right never stopped rotating on her pussy. She called out my name as she came, her head against my shoulder.

When I slid my hand out of her pants, she turned around to look at me. Her face was even more flushed than before, a beautiful afterglow from my touch. I put my hands on her face and kissed her, a deep sensual kiss. She stood up, our lips still touching, wrapping her arms around my neck while I pulled her to me by her waist. I felt the hunger in her kiss, her tongue meeting mine with fervor. When she finally let go to take a breath, her eyes seemed to burn through mine. I'd never had anyone look at me like that before. It was desire...but something else too. It made me feel incredible.

"Let's go to the bedroom, Harry," she muttered.

I nodded silently before she grabbed my hand and led me to her bed.

Roni

I'm not sure if Harry noticed, but when I opened the door and saw him I audibly gasped. He looked so good with his snapback worn backwards on his head, a combination of boyishly cute and hot as fuck.

I hadn't intended to play the piano for him, but halfway through the first piece I was glad I had, because I could feel him watching me. His gaze sent electric sparks inside me, and by the end I was completely turned on. I was so happy when he began touching me during the second piece. I crave his touch - I need it. However, I was not expecting what soon followed. I tried so hard to keep playing as he rubbed my clit, the idea totally erotic. But as I reached my high, I could no longer play. My head was swimming; I doubt I would have been able to tell you where middle C was at that moment.

When he kissed me afterwards, I kissed him back with all I had. I wanted him to know how much I wanted him. But I'm afraid I might have revealed too much. He looked at me a little bit bewildered, as though he was trying to read my thoughts. When I asked him to go to the bedroom, he merely nodded.

I guided him to my room, although he'd already been there twice before. I reached behind my head and pulled out the hair tie, released my hair from its bun, then I quickly took off my clothes as Harry stood and watched me.

"You okay?" I questioned.

It was Harry's turn to blush as he chuckled shyly. "Yeah."

He took off his hat and kicked off his shoes, then pulled off his shirt and trousers while I laid down on the bed to wait for him. I smiled as he came towards me, climbing on top. I wrapped my arms around his neck as he kissed me, his tongue soft and wet. When he lifted his head to look at me again, I could see the same expression in his eyes.

"My God, you're beautiful," he whispered.

I felt my heart rise to my throat as I bit my lip. This is it. I'm falling for this boy, and I don't know what to do.

I ran my hands down his back to his bum, guiding him towards my entrance. I closed my eyes as my body stretched to accommodate him. I heard nothing but his breathing, steady and slow just like his thrusts. He was gentle - almost too gentle. It was none of the rough, pure animalistic sex we'd had before. He rocked slowly and deeply, hitting my g-spot before pulling out almost entirely, only to do it all again. Over and over. It felt so good, it drove me mad.

I gripped the back of his shoulders as my moans escaped my lips. Usually this would be when I'd expect him to move faster, fucking me hard until we come. But he kept the same pace, sliding in and out slowly, his eyes focused on mine. I could barely stand it.

"Harry..." I moaned, trying to catch my breath.

My entire body was shaking, on the edge of orgasm. I could tell Harry was close as well, his breaths broken.

"Oh, Roni!" he cried. "Oh, fuck, baby!"

He hit my sweet spot once more, and I went over the edge just as he did. He buried his head in my neck, trying to steady his breathing as his thrusts ended. I held him while be both lay in silence, our bodies sweaty and satisfied.

With a loud sigh, Harry finally lifted himself off of me and lay beside me. He pulled me flush against him, spooning me. I wondered what he was thinking, what he'd been thinking during and even before. But I dared not ask. I wasn't about to blow it.

"Roni," Harry finally whispered, running his fingers down my arm.

"Hmm?"

Instead of answering me right away, I felt him shift on the bed, as though he wanted to look at me. I turned onto my back to face him. He had that same expression on his face at first. Then he grinned and sighed.

"I love the way you look at me," he said.

I blushed again, no doubt giving away more of my feelings. I'm so not good at this. I'd let myself fall too hard, too fast for one other man. I'd told myself I wasn't going to do that again. I'd been able to put up a wall and allow sex to just be sex. I hadn't felt like I'd led Harry on, or that I was playing games. I genuinely liked him, and he liked me. But now...now it was something more.

"How do I look at you?" I asked.

Harry smiled, his adorable dimple making me want to touch his face. I ran my hand up his shoulder to his neck.

"Um...I don't know," he replied. "I guess...like you're happy to be with me."

"I am," I confirmed.

Harry made a contented sound as he leaned his forehead against mine.

"It makes me feel good," he murmured.

"I'm glad," I told him. "You deserve to feel good."

Harry chuckled, then let out a loud exasperated sigh. "Roni."

"Yes?"

I knew it then. He was feeling it, just as I was. He was just as scared to reveal himself. My body shook with anticipation, my heart pounding in my chest. He lifted his head to look at me again.

"I...um..."

"It's okay, Harry," I muttered. "You can say it."

With an embarrassed grin, he licked his lips. "I think I'm falling in love with you."

"Me too," I smiled.

"Really?"

"Yes," I nodded. "Frightening, isn't it?"

"Yeah," said Harry. "Like, it feels too soon, you know?"

"I know," I agreed as I wrapped my arms around him once more. "But it'll be alright. We'll fall together."

MASTERLIST | KO-FI | FEEDBACK

[imonlyhereforthexreaders]

by four and a half lengths (part 2)

Thomas Shelby x reader

length: 2075 words/ 3.5 pages single space

summary: after an initially favorable interaction with the infamous thomas shelby, the reader is blindsided by a seemingly malicious decision only to find out that it may not have been exactly what it seemed.

a/n: hello darlings and dears, here’s part 2 of a series that i’m really enjoying at the moment. as usual dont be afraid to send your love and criticism my way i thrive with the attention. also lmk if you want to be tagged for future parts! as always, be gentle with yourselves.

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Following the conclusion of the final races owners and trainers alike gathered for an informal cocktail hour to celebrate placings. With the Catalpa Downs races being regarded so highly within the racing community it was an achievement to have even had a horse running, so even the biggest losers of the last couple days showed their faces proudly for having qualified and competed. The gathering was held in the large outdoor pavilion just beyond the stabling area in the late afternoon. After giving Damascus his evening feed and double checking he had fresh water you made your way over to the already bustling party. With all races having been won cleanly and without major upsets, spirits were understandably high. You accepted a flute of champagne before spotting just the man you were hoping to see.

  Richard Boyd was an old timer in the racing industry who, although not much of a trainer, was responsible for the importing or breeding of the majority of the most successful race horses in Great Britain. So while the horse of his that you were interested in, Saint Clement, may have placed fourth, he had run three other horses in the same race who had placed first, second and sixth so he was understandably in good spirits as he gestured wildly to another man in the midst of telling a story. When he finally turned from his conversation to spot you he smiled widely and motioned for you to join him.

“How good to see you, Miss (l/N)!” He greeted, with an enthusiastic handshake. Richard was someone who didn’t concern himself with the politics of racing so the issue of your sex didn’t concern him in the least. You had a solid racing record and were known for treating both your horses and your staff with the utmost respect which in turn made Richard a big fan of yours and a big supporter of your career. “I saw Damascus yesterday, he just looks better and better with every race” You smiled proudly at the compliment. Although Damascus had not come from Richard, his breeder was one which Richard frequently worked with. “He’s got a great mentality,” you agreed, “he runs great on the grass as well. His shoulders are so upright that he sinks a bit on sand turf but these grounds have been perfect for him” Richard laughs heartily and gives you an affectionate pat on the shoulder. “You’ve got a great eye (y/n)” he compliments, running a hand through his greying hair “have you added any new blood to your barn that I should keep an eye out for?” “Actually, that’s something I wanted to talk to you about” you admitted, “I saw Saint Clement had a sales ribbon in his tail today and was looking to see if I could take him off your hands.” “I actually did have you in mind when this one started training, he’s got the French bloodlines on his dam’s side that I know you like” you nodded in agreement having already researched his pedigree beforehand, “Unfortunately I was approached earlier today and already sold him to another gentleman” You tried and failed to hide your surprise. It wasn’t unusual for offers to be put in at social events such as these on horses that didn’t win, however it was strange that Richard would accept the first offer without waiting to hear from others. This told you whoever had bought the horse had paid a pretty substantial sum. “Can I ask who the buyer was?” you inquired in a hushed tone, knowing that early sales like this are usually kept quiet. Richard in turn leaned in, eyeing around the room suspiciously. “Thomas Shelby” he nearly whispered “I knew he was involved in racing, he ran a horse against yours yesterday, but I wasn’t aware he was trying to expand it” you nodded, encouraging him to continue. “I didn’t really want to sell to him, I don’t want my name associated with whatever shit he gets up to in Birmingham but he made an offer I couldn’t refuse without offending him and that’s something I wanted even less” Richard revealed, taking a step back with a deep breath. “Well if he’s running horses here that at least means he’s running clean races these days” you offered weakly, knowing that while he may be able to fix races in Birmingham, Catalpa Down was a whole different animal. Richard nodded in agreement, mouth pulled into a straight line in thought. “That’s true, sorry I couldn’t make this one work out for you, lass. If I see another one that looks like your type I’ll give you a call. I plan on heading to the states at the end of August to find some to import so I’ll keep an eye out.” 

You thanked him before he got pulled into another conversation with another trainer. Finishing your champagne you make your way to the small bar area, plopping down on a stool. You tried several times to flag down the bartender only to have any man who approached the bar get priority over you. After having already been moderately pissed about losing the opportunity to buy Saint Clement after you had opted to stay an extra day at the races just to watch him run, this was just the icing on the cake.

“What are you trying to order?” asked a familiarly gravelly voice beside you. You turned to find Thomas leaned against the bar beside you. You didn’t even bother hiding your scowl, he was the last person you wanted to be seeing right now. “You bought the horse out from under me” you accused, not caring that you were bitching at someone who in theory could have you disappear off the face of the earth. You opened your mouth to say more but were interrupted, “Can I get you anything sir?” the bartender asked Thomas. If you were angry before you were now fuming. “What would you like, love?” Thomas implored with a smug smirk seeming unbothered by your noticeable rage. You clenched your teeth so hard you could feel the blood pumping in your temples. “Two old-fashioneds” you finally manage with a tight lipped smile. The bartender, sensing the tension, offers a curt nod and runs off to prepare the drinks. “Kind of you to order for me” Thomas quips, leaning further against the bar to see over your cold shoulder. “They’re both for me Mr. Shelby, you can go kick rocks” You snarl, sneaking a glance at him to find even at your rude remark that he only smirked further and raised a curious eyebrow. His indifference was pissing you off but then again so was everything about him so you decided to air your grievances. “I know this is not your wheelhouse Mr. Shelby, I’m fully aware that racehorses are not your largest concern in life but what you did was unprofessional and also quite honestly a stupid move.” He nodded along to your explanation, “And why was it a stupid move?” He inquired, tilting his head with that signature stony expression. You turned to face him fully, “You bought a horse that runs middle of the pack in his current training program. I know you can easily afford any trainer in England and they can probably get that colt to finish consistently in the top three. However, they will not try to train him the way that I will. I know what to do with this horse to make him sweep the competition but you don't, and neither will whatever trainer you hire. Saint Clement could be great but you haven’t got the faintest idea on how to get him there.” You explained, albeit a bit pridefully. The bartender returned with your drinks, placing one in front of both you and Tommy and you made a point of pulling them both in front of you, raising the first to your lips, gauging Thomas’ reaction over the rim of the glass. “That’s why I intend to hire you to train him” Thomas stated matter of factly, expression not changing as you choked a bit on your drink. “Excuse me?” you wheeze out, still coughing the old fashioned out of your lungs. “I own all of the horses that I train, what makes you think I’d suddenly change my business model to work for you” You ask in confusion. All of Thomas’ previous smugness had vanished from his face, he was 100% serious in what he was saying. Although you suppose most people wouldn’t buy a whole horse for a business venture that they were not serious about. “You’d be paid handsomely,” he begins “I own stables in Birmingham so you could bring all of your personal horses to maintain their training while also heading the training of both Saint Clement and Monaghan Boy” You couldn’t hide your surprise at his proposition, you had only met him hours ago and he likely knew nothing of your record other than your horse had beat his. “I don’t race in Birmingham” you stated, which was an honest truth “The races are historically fixed so it’s not well respected within the community. It would reflect poorly on me” You explain tentatively, knowing he was likely involved in the fixing of the races in Birmingham. “That’s no longer the case. Races have not been fixed since I came into management of that issue and also came to the conclusion that the Birmingham races didn’t even begin to tap into the money that there is to be made in this sport. I found that running larger races had a much better payout and those can’t be fixed without losing support of the industry which would cause the profits to plummet” He could see in your face that you didn’t like his reasoning “That being said,” he continued, “I understand that Birmingham now has that reputation so I would support you racing the horses anywhere you think they would be most successful. They would only be trained in Birmingham, and it would be at a private training facility of which you would have influence over management.” “I’d still have to live in Birmingham,” you pointed out “I hope I don’t offend you by saying it’s not exactly a safe of pleasant place to live” “There’s a cottage on the property where you could reside, it has enough room for yourself, your husband and any kids to-” “No husband,” you interrupted quickly, he offered only a raise of the eyebrow “no kid either” you mentally slapped yourself for blurting that out so quickly as it definitely was not the point of the conversation. “Right,” Thomas said slowly “regardless, if you were not a fan of the cottage we could also work out a stipend for renting elsewhere, there are places in the city that are safer and cleaner than others. I could also have security implemented if it was a concern of yours.” You had nearly forgotten who you were talking to. This wasn’t just any wealthy businessman trying to tap into a new market. This was a gangster who controlled organized crime and bribed policemen on the regular. “I’m worried about the reputation of your... business will impact my reputation as a professional who has made it this far in her career by only running clean races” you admitted “I’ve had to fight tooth and nail to be respected in this industry, I’m not prepared to sacrifice that by getting involved in whatever you and your folks are up to in Birmingham” Something that looks like sympathy flashed across his face briefly, you imagined it wasn’t often he dangled a good opportunity in front of someone only to have them hesitate on the principle of honor. “I understand your concern, however I fully intend to only run races cleanly and any involvement in this industry has been a personal venture which is not associated with my family business” you nodded, trying your best to take comfort in his reassurance. Knocking back your old fashioned you stood up from your barstool, “I’ll consider it” you stated, pushing the second old-fashioned towards Thomas. “I thought you said I could kick rocks?” He said with a hint of a smile. “You’re still welcome to do so, but you’re turning out to not be as bad as I thought” you admit with an honest smile before heading in the direction of your lodging. You had much to think about and not much time to do so.

----

taglist: @shelbyteller

[lorei-writes]

now last one: 1, yves and fluff for uhhh... me? pretty please, with a cherry on top

Ding, ding, ding! First request to align with an idea from my stash >:) A bit of Eevie with kisses, partially inspired by that International-server-exclusive story sale from a while back...

»All the things we choose to share«

Yves x Reader Fluff Content Warnings: none

Adorned

Foamy clouds linger over the surface of violet sea, fragrant currents forcing lavender debris to abide by their whims. Helpless, it lets itself be carried over bath salt reefs, ever-careful not to infringe on shallows, although one may argue it is already too late for that. It shivers, remembering that it was once whole… And yet, it cannot fathom how it’d be to fear, the hands that have stripped it from its stem being far too gentle, too elegant, to inspire this sort of sentiment.

Rosemary joins mint over placid waves, lingers in gulfs around the flushed ivory islands. It seems to huddle closer to the warmed flesh, perhaps awaiting something – doomed be lavender and its sorry state. Too gullible, it remains blind to the most obvious of signs, omen-ripples escaping its sight.

Water stirs.

The world shifts, old order crumbling as lands collapse for other to emerge from the depths, the very first six days of the whole universe being re-enacted within the borders of a bath. Caged elements rage, oils boil despite lack of heat as floral debris sinks, tectonic plates of human body rearranging their position; Yves settles once again in the tub. His eyes open wide at the door that shields him not, despite its duty to. He does not reach to cover himself, however, nor does he seem to feel threatened by your inquiring stares. The air of his room has reached him and cooled down the steam, temporary crystals adorning his eyelashes while remaining indifferent towards his swept-back hair. His lips part, little different from a rose caught in a mizzle. But only quiet ensues. Yves closes his mouth, opens it, closes it again – nothing changes, nothing follows, as if somebody cast a mute spell.

“I –” you try to say something, anything, but your tongue does not seem to obey you either. Malicious magic must it be to affect you as well – or a curse, perhaps, although Yves banishes the thought. He shakes his head, shaking himself free of surprise and any budding resentment directed at himself. You’ve broken his shackles once, your presence is enough to free him again. He wills his throat into submission.

“Has something happened?” His voice comes out more unsure than he’d wish for it to. Nevertheless, it still is enough.

“I called you, but you haven’t replied. I did knock, and you still said nothing, and… Well. Clavis did kidnap you today,” you force out, words dripping from your lips to then become a flood, spilling from you until understanding lights up his eyes. Yves blinks.

“It’s nothing, it was just some flour! Not even eggs,” he blurts out, his voice waning as he becomes aware of the force he has put into the words. He hushes himself down to a murmur, his voice marching on the border between embarrassment and sourness. “I was just a little lost in thoughts.”

A little? Just a little lost, just now? You dare question whether that truly is what he feels, and perhaps you let some of your true thoughts slip. Yves’ cheeks flush.

“Yves?”

“Y-yes?!” he replies, voice hitching again, becoming a little too loud.

You step forward. The tiles are wetted with artificial dew, cold pricking your toes as you approach your love soundlessly, studiously examining his face. “Did Clavis use honey too?”

“Wha – Don’t tell me I haven’t got it out of my hair yet?” His arms lift in despair, water bubbling out a judgement on his brother’s misdeeds. You, however, seem far too pleased with yourself.

“No, I can’t see any there. Would you look at me?”

Blue eyes meet yours, now framed in an even lovelier jewellery than the gems from before; minute crinkles form around them, and you do know Yves is not aware of that much. It is purely instinctual, each crease a pool of his adoration and love.

You cup his cheeks.

Your lips brush against his. Briefly, delicately, as if a butterfly kissed him with its wings. However, a butterfly would not return, would not deepen the caress, would not steal his breath nor would it have its breath stolen – it would not allow itself to be held by wet hands, and neither would it have hair that could get soaked, or any clinging, binding, clothes for that matter. It would not get lost in the act of relishing the rose bloom lips, it would not seek what is past them to satiate its hunger for nectar… And lastly, it would most definitely leave.

But you?

You are not a butterfly.

--

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