#gave me a note and went to my balcony and would! not! leave!

[my-screenshot-dump]

[cyn-write]

"I Feel Her, I See Her"

Summary: Rollo has been eyeing you since your arrival, seeing you as the diamond amongst coals. At the Ball, he corners you into a dance, but your BF is not going to let this slide...

Pairings: Riddle, Deuce, Ruggie, and Jamil x F!Reader (Separately)

For Idia, Azul, and Malleus, check out Part 1!

For Rollo, Check out "Heaven's Light"!

Warnings: Possessive behavior, suggestive, manipulation and obsession (Rollo), established relationships, Secretive relationship implied on Riddle's part, swearing in Deuce's part, Jamil refers to readers Rohi (Arabic for "my soulmate"), romantic ~

Note: Thank you to everyone who enjoyed section 1 ("She Blazes Me")! The idea for this came while playing Glorious Masquerade, and I hope you all enjoy reading this as much as I have writing it!

Prologue

"Who might you be miss?"

Y/n gave a kind smile and nodded her head in greeting "I'm y/n, it's nice to meet you," she stayed next to Trein as she was there as his assistant.

"Yuu is our magicless perfect of Ramshackle. She will be working as my assistant throughout the trip," Trein added.

She felt Rollo's eyes scan her and, unlike his greetings to the rest, he held out a hand. Being poilet, she offered her hand as well, and he lifted it to his lips, grazing her knuckles quickly. "It is a pleasure to meet you, y/n. I understand it must be difficult, being surrounded by mages every second of the day. I hope you get a chance to relax this trip."

Y/n blushed at the motion and bit her lower lip. All the while, she could feel her boyfriend glaring daggers into her and Rollo.

"I-I'll do my best..." Y/n replied.

Throughout the entire trip, Rollo seemed to gravitate towards y/n and used every excuse to isolate her from the group. They chatted about her difficulties at NRC and of the festival. Due to her being Trein's assistant and the constant reminders to behave, she and her boyfriend had little time together.

This all accumulated at the Masquerade. Rollo had given Y/n a proper dress for the occasion instead of the attire his counsel had chosen. The (color) fabric decadently adorned your figure and stunned the NRC boys with its beauty. But before her boyfriend could ask for a dance, Rollo stole y/n away. He whisked her to the dance floor, and they started chatting.

At this point, Y/N's boyfriend has had enough of the student counsel president, but what sent him over the edge is when he takes you to the balcony and dare suggest the worst:

"Y/n, stay here with me." Y/n turned quickly on her heels to Rollo in confusion, "The fools at NRC do not deserve your purity. You belong here. with me." He has her pinned against the balcony, "This is your sanctuary."

Y/n pushed Rollo away slightly and spoke up, "Thank you for the offer, but I have not intention of leaving NRC. It is difficult at times but I wouldn't have it any other way. Now if you excuse me, I want to go back to the ball."

Rollo grabbed y/n's wrist and pulled her against him. "It's because of him, isn't it? He has bewitched you!" He pinned her between the balcony wall and him. "Those fiends have enchanted you, but I will free you from those chains and show you salvation! No matter the cost!"

Riddle Roseheart

Riddle had been watching the scene through a crack in the door. He felt his blood run cold at the mention of her leaving NRC. He knew it was a possibility, and for a second he thought she would be better off at NB. Then Rollo dared lay a hand on his rose.

His blood went from frigid to boiling.

Riddle slammed the doors open, causing them to clang against the walls. Rollo spun on his heels to see who dared to disturb him and the perfect.

"Roseheart. What are you doing-"

"Don't play daft with me. I saw everything." Riddle went straight to y/n and, with all his strength, physically removed Rollo's hand from her wrist, placing himself between Rollo and his rose. "You call yourself a gentleman, taking advantage of a lady and forcing yourself upon her! You have failed as a Host, as a Gentleman. And you dare threaten MY Rose." Riddle raised his pen in preparation to cast his signature spell, "I will have your head for this-"

He felt the hands of his rose on his back, a reminder to bring him back to reality. Riddle lowered his pen and took a deep breath. He was not the man he once was. He could control his temper.

"Y/n, let's go." He took her hand and guided her away from the cursed balcony. He never let y/n out of his sight for a single second. He ignored the mutters of the Student Counsel President and put all his focus on her.

He led her into a hidden part of the ballroom. Once safely away from the prying eyes of the crowd, he delicately checked her for bruising. "Are you alright? Did he hurt you anywhere?"

He gently caressed her face as she silently shook her head. He pulled her into a gentle embrace and whispered, "It's okay, I got you... he can't hurt you."

He felt y/n tighten the hug and he reciprocated. "Thank you for stepping in... I was so scared."

"I'm so sorry I didn't see it sooner. I should have been more assertive or-r told him off. I-I could have-"

"Riddle." Y/n leaned back and placed her hands on either side of his face, "There isn't anything else you could have done. Rollo is the one at fault, not you."

"But if I held you, or was more showing with our relationship, maybe he would have been fended off from pursuing you-"

"Riddle, I know you're not a fan of PDA. You are a little more reserved when it comes to PDA, but you show your love in other ways." Y/n caressed Riddle's cheek as she spoke, "You're chivalrous and I love that about you."

Riddle blushed as his rose complimented him, "Thank you rose, but I think... I think I am ready to be more forward, I want everyone to know that you are mine and I am yours." He leaned in and gave her a passionate kiss. He moved his hand to the back of her head and held her close to him.

After a minute, they parted and he could tell the pleasant surprise on the perfect's face. The music swelled and he heard faint voices call his and y/n's name.

"We are being summoned," Riddle peaked out of their hiding spot and gave himself a moment to compose himself. He turned to his rose and fixed his coat, "I am a man of his word," Riddle held out his gloved hand and took the stance of the knights of old, "Shall we dance, my rose?"

Deuce Spade

"What do ya think you're doin'." Deuce's voice was cold. A tone he hasn't used since his delinquent days.

Rollo turned and saw Duece holding out his magic pen to the third year as if it were a rapier pointed at his chest. His eyes were no longer that sparkling blue, but frigid cold as he glared daggers into this predator.

Y/n's look of pure fear fueled Duece's rage, as he held himself together by the seams.

"We are simply having a conversation," Rollo still had a grip on y/n's wrist and brushed off the boy, "Now if you excuse us, we have more things to-"

"No." Deuce said simply and approached carefully. Deuce may not be the brightest, but he knew when his girlfriend was uncomfortable, and this man made her very uncomfortable. "Y/n, let's go."

Y/n tried to move towards Deuce, but Rollo yanked her back. "Are you really going to let him order you around?"

"Please let-" "LET HER GO YOU BASTARD!" Deuce interrupted. His pen aided his fist as he punched Rollo right in the jaw. The Student Council President wretched back and released his grip on the perfect. She darted for Duece's arms. He enveloped her in his arms. Before he could even ask her if she was okay, he saw Rollo regain his composure so he moved her behind him.

He faced Rollo who was enraged. That filth punched him. The Host. "How dare you. Your professor will hear of this-"

"You won't say a word." All three turned to see Riddle. He saw everything. "If you don't want to be reported for harassment of the only female student from NRC, then you will say nothing."

Rollo's impenetrable expression had a hint of fear in it. Riddle approached the preditor, passing the couple. He briefly paused next to Deuce and said in a low tone, "Get her out. I'll take care of this."

Deuce was still filled with rage at Rollo, but he saw how shaken his dearest was. He nodded to his housewarden with a whisper of thanks, then whisked y/n away from the scene.

As they walked out of the balcony, he kept his arm around y/n's shoulder. He felt his heart pounding in his chest as his rage turned to worry for his dear perfect. He blamed himself for what happened. If he had paid more attention to you and how Rollo interacted with her, he may have subverted this. Once they were in the hall between the balcony and the ballroom, he pulled her aside to a hidden bench. The two sat and Deuce just held y/n close as the situation washed over the both of them.

Deuce felt his eyes water as he quietly said "I'm sorry." He patted her hair and pulled her into his chest "I'm so sorry I wasn't there, If I was then I could have stopped him or protected you or-"

Y/n cut off his ramblings with a kiss. A light yet purposeful kiss that he melted into. He cupped her face and leaned into it. When she parted from his lips, she placed her hands on either side of his face.

"Deuce, you saved me. I-I am not sure what would have happened if... if you hadn't come by I am not sure what would've happened." Her eyes started to well again, "You were my knight... you are my knight in shining armor. So stop beating yourself up. Rollo is at fault, not you."

He placed a hand on top of hers. "He was right about one thing though," he leaned his head into her hand and lightly kissed it. "I don't deserve you. You do so much and get no recognition, and I have been part of that."

Deuce sits up straighter and takes both of the perfect's hands in his. He moves off the bench to kneel in front of her, mirroring the knights of old kneeling before their love. "I know I can be dense at times and my old self may creep out, but I promise you, I will work ten times harder to become a knight worthy of standing beside you. You bring out the best in me and I want you to know how much you mean to me." Following his gut he took a deep breath, "I will start right now."

With the moon illuminating him, he stood, removed his hat to place it above his heart, and held out a hand, "y/n, may I have this dance?"

Ruggie Bucchi

Ruggie never trusted Rollo. From the moment he smelled the man he knew he couldn't be trusted. What was worse was that Rollo seemed to glue himself to her and that made Ruggie's skin crawl, but due to Trein and Grim dragging you from place to place he couldn't keep you by his side. Now you were missing. Rollo stole y/n away from the ball and he couldn't find her anywhere. He would have never found her if it weren't for her signature scent cutting through the plethora of perfumes.

He followed her scent to the balcony just outside the ballroom and saw his worst nightmare. Rollo had you pinned to the balcony and was leaning way to close for comfort. He heard Rollo's shpeal and felt his fur stand on its ends. He knew his girl would tell off the bastard, but when he wouldn't listen, Ruggie stepped in.

"The lady said she wanted to dance," Ruggie stepped out from behind the door and walked over to y/n, "I thought you righteous types would be more gentlemanly." Ruggie slipped his hand around y/n's arm and pulled her towards him.

"Bucchi." Rollo gripped his neckerchief and raised it to his mouth to cover his scowl. "Y/n and I were just having a conversation."

"Really? What were ya talking about?" Ruggie played dumb as he snaked his arm around his beloved's waist, holding her close.

Rollo glared at Ruggie, but this only made his smile grow and move behind y/n to hug her from behind, nestling his head into the crook of her neck. He could feel her heartbeat racing as she leaned into his hug, placing her arms above his on her waist.

"Nothing of your concern..." Rollo's face screwed at the sight.

"Really, 'cause you were getting real close to her, and she looked real uncomfortable," Ruggie said and his grin morphed into a frown, "And I don't like it when people talk to my girlfriend like that."

He seemed to halt his breath for a moment, and then Rollo glared at Ruggie in disdain. "I was merely offering her an opportunity to be actually appreciated by her community, rather than taken advantage of."

"Well. Offer declined." Ruggie said coldly then held his girlfriend's hand and looked at her with warmth, "Why don't we go have that dance, princess? I think Prechy needs a moment to process things."

Y/n looked at Ruggie with small relief, "Yes, please." She then whispered a silent thank you.

Y/n looked at Ruggie with her e/c eyes that sparkled like gems. He couldn't help himself as he kissed her softly before he led her away from the gawking Rollo.

As they re-entered the ballroom, Ruggie never let go of y/n's hand. He felt his animal instincts still singing in his gut as his desire to protect his lover and make sure everyone knew she was taken still driver his emotion. He held y/n incredibly close as they danced. He brushed a strand of hair behind her ear and smiled at her.

"Sorry for speaking for you. I didn't mean to, I just got all riled up and-"

Y/n pressed another kiss to his lips. One that was a lot more passionate than the one he gave her before. When she broke the kiss, it was Ruggie who was left breathless.

"You have nothing to be sorry for," She said, "I should be the one thanking you. You swooped in like a knight and rescued me from Rollo. I honestly have no idea what would have happened if you didn't come when you did..." He could see her mind wander to the worst, so he, being her knight in shining armor, spun her around and dipped her to the music. His sudden movements caused her smile to find its place again on her face.

Bringing her back up, he held her tight as he said, "I will always be there for you. It's a knight's job to protect his princess after all." This caused y/n to blush furiously and his heart to race. She looked ethereal in the candlelight of the ballroom.

Hearing the music change tones, he danced over to the side and whispered, "Ya know, it is a knight's job to take care of his princess, so how about I go show you my devotion? shishishishi~"

Jamil Viper

Life had taken much away from him, but he was not going to let this creep take his girlfriend.

"It's fascinating to see what brings out the true intentions of people." Jamil broke the villain's soliloquy with his cold voice.

He could see the relief on y/n's face as he appeared from behind the door. He had been listening in this entire time. He never let his Rohi out of his sight from the moment she entered the ballroom in that magnificent f/c dress to when Rollo stole her away.

"Viper, what are you doing out here?" Rollo asked, standing in front of y/n as if to hide her from him.

"Looking for y/n, I promised her a dance. But it seems I came here just in time," Jamil approached the two and held out his hand to y/n. Getting the signal, y/n started towards Jamil but was stopped by Rollo's arm, outstretched to halt her.

"Y/n and I are still discussing a delicate matter. We will return to the ballroom in a moment." Rollo started to turn towards y/n when Jamil placed a firm hand on Rollo's arm.

"She has made it clear she is done talking to you. I suggest you leave her be before I make you." Jamil looked to Y/n and made way for her to escape Rollo's grip as he turned his attention to Jamil.

Y/n quickly scurried to Jamil's side and he stepped in front of her as Rollo glared at the two of them. Jamil laid his hand on his magic pen as Rollo assessed him.

Seeing the situation and wanting to save face, Rollo looked to y/n and said, "I hope you consider my offer. We will discuss this later."

Rollo took his leave, regaining his composure before returning to the ball, leaving Jamil and y/n on the beautiful balcony overlooking the city.

With Rollo gone, Jamil turned his attention to his Rohi. His expression turned from threatening to worrying as he embraced his dearest, feeling her trembling from the endeavor she just experienced.

"I'm so glad you're okay," he whispered into her ear. He caressed her hair and did his best to comfort her.

"I was so scared, Jamil. He wouldn't let me go... he-he-" She couldn't get the words out and Jamil just held her for a long time. He let her cry into his shoulder as he whispered reassurance to her.

"It's okay Rohi, I'm here. No one will hurt you." he said, "I won't let anyone hurt you, never again."

After a while he pulled back and whipped away her tears with his gloved hands. He kissed her forehead and then leaned his own against hers. "Rohi, if anyone makes you feel like this again, please tell me and I will protect you." He cups her cheeks and caresses them with his thumb, "I will always protect you, no matter what. I love you y/n."

He kissed her with all the love he had. The music swelled and he heard some of the others calling their names.

Y/n must have heard this too as she turned her head towards the door. "We don't have to go back in if you don't want to," Jamil said softly.

Y/n shook her head and took a deep breath, "I think we should attempt to salvage the evening, it's not every day we get to attend a ball without you worrying about Kalim."

Jamil smiled softly and kissed his beloved's forehead, "As you wish."

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

Note: Please Like, Reblog, and Follow for more! If you are interested in seeing an NSFW part 2 or want to see more characters in this scenario, please let me know! (Do not Steal)

Also if you get the "Princess Bride" Reference let me know :)

[nightcourtfr3ak]

Eris Vanserra

Part 1

My eyes almost rolled to the back of my head as the scent of him filled my head. Almost.

My grip on the balcony railing tightened and i was scared I would leave marks. Even velaris chilled breeze did little to sooth the warmth that engulfed me. The fire that threatened to suffocate me from inside, was now stood mere feet away.

I kept my back to him as I spoke. Tone flat and void of any emotions. “What do you want?” from me. From the night court. My court. My home.

My blood boiled and froze at the same time, as he chuckled. Mocking me. Like he was enjoying toying with me.

“We’re allies now, darling. I want everything.” He all but purred and took a few steps closer.

The railing creaked underneath my palms as he caressed the bare skin of my arm. So gentle, barely there. I thought i imagined it.

I cursed myself as goosebumps erupted on my skin. And my body. And the bond.

"You look exquisite in my colour." He breathed out. As if he was in pain... Closer than I thought.

My head tilted and I almost hurled myself over the balcony as I noticed that I was still in my auburn gown from earlier. When I went out for a meal with my friends. My family. The night court.

The very home his presence alone threatened to poison.

I made a note to burn the gown.

I grunted as I glared at him over my shoulder.

He was definitely closer. "And you look positively ill."

That was a lie. He knew it.

The stars always shone brighter in the night court and l often found myself looking up the sky, counting the stars to ground myself when everything simply felt...too much.

I didn't know what to do when our eyes locked and I saw the reflection of those very stars in his. Burning brighter than ever before as if feeding off his fire.

He smirked, raising an eyebrow. I wanted to smack the amusement off his devastatingly beautiful face.

I rolled my eyes looking back at the sky. The stars looked dimmed so l looked down at the city beneath.

"If I asked nicely, would you save me a dance on starfall?" He said playfully. Teasingly. But there was a hint of something else in his voice.

"I guess it was too much to hope you wouldn't be here then." | frowned ignoring his question.

Must he be everywhere all the damn time?

"I wouldn't miss it for the world." He snorted but his tone felt more serious.

"May I be so bold and request my birthday present then?" I gave him a saccharine smile.

Starfall was my day after all.

"Of course, darling. Anything." | ignored the lack of usual playfulness in his tone.

"I want you to stay far, far away from me on starfall. And forever preferably." | grumbled picking at the skin around my nails.

It was quiet for a minute too long then his velvety voice came. Smooth against the back of my neck and I convinced myself it was the breeze that made me shiver. "Is that what you truly want?"

"Yes." | didn't hesitate. I didn't give the bond buried deep in my chest, in my soul, the chance to could my head.

"I am a generous male." His breath hit the back of my ear. "I would give you the world if you asked...” his chest brushed against my back with every breath. "Burn it all to ashes, even..." he groaned and the railing almost rattled as his hands gripped it mere inches from mine, caging me with his body.

"But don't ask me to stay away, darling. I count the seconds when we're apart. l'd rather you sneer and snarl at me than not look at me all." Despite his warmth against my back, I was trembling. His knuckles white as if he was restraining himself from reaching out to me.

"Might as well stab me in the heart." He let out a breathless laugh.

"Is that an offer?" My voice came out shakier than I would ve wanted it to.

His laugh was quiet but beautiful and smooth. "My beautiful, cruel mate."

My body was betraying me. I felt on fire. All thoughts burnt to nothing. Head completely empty.

With our bodies pressed so closely, I couldn't tell if it was my heartbeat pounding so loudly or his.

I don't know when I closed my eyes or leaned back against him. All I know was that he pressed a small kiss underneath my jaw. Just like his touch, it was featherlike and gentle.

I craved it.

"Perhaps I'll get you a dagger. You already have my heart. Do as you wish with it, darling." He whispered between kisses trailing from my jaw to my shoulder and I felt like dying.

"I don't want your heart." He stilled and his warm lips on my skin suddenly felt cold.

I felt cold.

I was still shaking when I turned in his arms and willed myself to look in his hazel eyes again. "You are vile. You are unfair."

I pushed on his chest and he let me. "You scheme and play and deceive. You lie and corrupt and destroy till nothing's left."

My chest caved. The bond roared in pain. Or he did.

"Having a mate is a blessing. Finding your mate is a miracle." I recited the words I was told. Same words I used to wish upon the stars a million times before meeting him. They felt like ash on my tongue.

Fitting really.

“You are not my blessing.” I smiled even if my eyes burned.

I had mourned and mourned after the mating bond snapped for me as I wondered what to do with all the love I had in me to give. Where to put it.

Mother really did have a cruel sense of humour.

“You are my punishment, Eris.”

I was cruel.

I had never called him by his name before but I wanted him to hurt. Just as I had when I lost what could have been if he wasn’t my mate.

He flinched and for the first time it was him who looked away first. With his back now against the wall, his shoulder slumped and he looked utterly defeated.

“Equal in every way.” The words left his mouth quieter than I’d ever heard him.

And he laughed.

Not like before. There was nothing sweet, nothing soothing in that sound. His head rolled back against the wall lazily and he looked at me beneath his long eyelashes.

“I might scheme and play and deceive.” Despite the smirk on his face, his eyes looked dull.

No trace of the burning stars. I struggled not to turn around and look up at the sky again. Just to make sure the stars were still…there.

“I might lie and corrupt and destroy.” His toothy grin was cruel.

Perhaps we truly were the same.

“I fight and stop at nothing to get what I want.” He pushed the hair off my shoulder and traced the skin beneath my gown’s strap before letting it snap back into place.

“So I might be vile and I might be unfair, mate. But perhaps one of us is lying.” His tone was harsh and his eyes on a loose curl he had wrapped around his finger.

“After all we are equals in every way.” He repeated his words from a minute ago, gently tugging on the curl before letting it drop.

“So tell me,” a gasp left my lips as he wrapped his hand around my neck loosely. His eyes snapped to where he could no doubt, feel my pulse quicken underneath his fingers and tugged me towards him.

“Am I truly the monster you make me to be or are you just pretending to be something you are not?” He smiled as my response died in my throat when he gently squeezed my neck. Just enough to shut me up. Like a warning. But that didn’t stop me from glaring at him.

He pouted at me mockingly.

Bastard.

“And why does your heart call out my name?” He purred.

I felt like a bucket of ice cold water was dumped on me. My eyes fluttered and I swallowed.

Which was the wrong move.

His eyes almost rolled to the back of his skull as my throat bobbed underneath his fingers.

“The same name you oh so profoundly refuse to say knowing it drives me mad.” He groaned closing his eyes. “Gods I was dying to hear my name on your lips.”

I didn’t notice I still had hands on his chest. His once perfectly pristine auburn jacket now wrinkled beneath my palms.

We were matching.

“It sounded even better than I’d imagined...” I wasn’t sure I’d still be standing if I wasn’t holding onto him so tightly as he almost whimpered.

“Will you say it again?” He let go of my neck just to cup my cheek. His free palm sprawled on my bare back and I cursed the open back gown.

He looked in trance as he watched my lips part when he traced over my bottom lip.

“Arrogant prick.” I whispered.

The corner of his lips twitched upwards and he shook his head. His nose brushing against mine. “I’ll add that to the list of names you’ve called me.”

His head was once again leaned back against the wall and he was peering down at me with a half smirk. “We know what I am. The question, darling, is what are you?”

Lost.

I was lost.

Velaris had always been my home. I had fought and bled for my court. My family.

But since the night I snuck out the camp war to look into Ouroboros, I felt lost.

What I had seen in that mirror, was beyond all my nightmares. I wailed and pounded at the mirror, trying to break the reflection. Just to stop what was looking back at me.

I almost clawed my eyes out after hours of not being able to look away. The skin on my hands, raw and bloody and broken. Only did I stop when the unbreakable mirror was completely covered by my blood, finally blocking the reflection.

I didn’t regret it. We needed the bone carver’s help even if he didn’t fare well.

But perhaps, I had gone mad. Perhaps it had shattered me instead.

The soft caress of his thumb against my back was what had snapped me back.

I despised the emotions shown so clearly in his eyes. For one of the most guarded males I knew, he was easy to read.

“Don’t look at me like that.” I growled pushing on his chest and taking a few steps back.

I hated the concern in his eyes. The same concern my family looked me with.

But I hated the curiosity even more. Like he was trying to figure out, piece together what was going on in my head all the time.

I hated how vulnerable and bare the bond in my chest made me feel. To unknowingly share everything I felt with someone else. Even worse for that person to be the high lord of another court. Someone who could easily use it to his advantage and harm my home.

So I built shields after shields around my head, my thoughts. Shields even stronger than when I was surrounded by daemati, because this time the enemy was already inside, tucked up in my chest.

I locked away the only part of me that was still fully mine and it would always be my choice if I wanted someone to be let in or not.

“You’ve overstayed your welcome, Vanserra. Leave.” I said, finally being able to think clearly when that he wasn’t stood so close to me anymore.

His arms dropped to his sides, his head still tilted back against the wall but his eyes followed my every move. Unyielding. Piercing through me.

Like he could see past the shields.

My hands shook and I immediately hid my clenched fists behind my back. My nails pressing down on my palms so harshly that it broke skin and I knew he could smell the metallic scent in the air.

Just like when I pounded and pounded at the mirror…

Stop.

“I’m usually a gracious hostess. That is not the case tonight, high lord.” I almost spat out before he had the chance to even opened his mouth to speak.

His eyes narrowed and I would’ve missed the way his left eye twitched ever so slightly had I not been watching him so carefully.

I convinced myself that it was just the shadows casted over his face that made his eyes looked even dimmer, almost black.

“As you wish, darling.” He pushed off the wall and straightened his jacket.

I could still point out exactly where I had been gripping him minutes ago.

His red hair swayed as he bowed his head graciously and in blink of an eye, he winnowed away.

For the second time that day, I felt like sinking to my knees and I almost stumbled towards the railing, holding my stomach as I felt sick.

I had to blink a few times to clear my vision as I saw the prints left on the railing.

Four of them.

I had indeed left mark underneath my palms.

But so had he.

Bastard.

I could’ve sworn I heard him chuckle which only made me cuss him out loudly as I tried to scrub over the marks with no avail. Silently relieved as it distracted me from breaking down.

[cosmicalily]

"to be loved is to be remembered" - a mini series by @cosmicalily. view series masterlist, and outline here

2. semantic memory | yang jeongin x fem!reader

semantic memory: a type of explicit memory that is categorised as general knowledge and information accumulated throughout an individual’s life.

author's note: oh, i missed writing for jeongin!! i was going to revert to my typical best friends to lovers but i decided to change it up (barely) and do roommates instead last minute! thank you for all the love on my seungmin fic, i hope you enjoy this one too!

Yang Jeongin was a good roommate. 

He was reasonably quiet, but not uncomfortably so. He didn’t talk all the time, but he still joked around with you. He was clean and organised, but not meticulous or irritating about it. He did things without you asking; washed the dishes when you were staying up late to work on assignments, ordered you a Caesar salad and fries whenever he got takeout from his favourite Italian place, and always took whatever laundry you had with him when he went to wash his clothes. 

When you went grocery shopping, you knew his favourite beer and ramyeon, and would always buy them for him. When you watered your plants, you’d always water his too, the ones he kept along the windowsill of his bedroom and on the balcony. 

And apparently, when the air conditioning in his bedroom broke in the middle of summer, you’d let him temporarily move into your room. Or at least, that’s what you’d just told him.

“Really? Are you sure?” he asked, rubbing the back of his neck. “You don’t have to. I’m sure I can find a fan or something.”

You nodded. “Yeah, I don’t mind. Honestly. I don’t do a lot of sleeping during the night anyway.”

“You’re always studying,” Jeongin rolled his eyes playfully.

“And you’re never studying, yet you somehow do so well in your classes. It pisses me off,” you groaned, giving him a light shove. “Anyway, you get the floor. Do you want some help migrating?”

The two of you dragged his mattress into your bedroom, out of breath and panting by the time it had been very unprettily dumped on your floor. He made the bed up with clean sheets, and offered to change yours as well. You thanked him, and told him you’d start making dinner.

When you’d finished, you called him, and he came out of your bedroom, shirt off, hair a little tousled. Your cheeks flushed pink and he raised an eyebrow at you in confusion.

“You look…nice,” you said awkwardly, handing him a beer.

“Thanks?” he chuckled, mouth full of rice.

You sighed dramatically. “Most boys would return the compliment,” you shook your head as you opened your bottle of peach soju. 

“You always look nice. I tell you that all the time,” Jeongin replied, fumbling with the remote. “What show?”

“Brooklyn 99. And I always think you’re being sarcastic.”

“We always watch fucking Brooklyn 99. And no, I’m not. I thought that was obvious.”

“Because it’s the best show! And it’s not that obvious, not to me!” You protested.

Jeongin put his beer down and turned to you. “I’m so confused, why are we having two conversations at once?”

“You were the one who asked me two things.”

Jeongin pressed play on the episode. “One of them was a statement, the other was a question. You do always look nice. I’m not being sarcastic, I’m not a dickhead.”

“Some would argue that,” you giggled, and he gave you a gentle shove.

“Some would argue you’re a bitch,” Jeongin sighed. “But I put up with you.”

“Because you think I’m pretty?” you teased. 

“Because of the rent,” he corrected. “How am I supposed to afford my own place in this economy? Although you’re a bonus, I suppose. Even if I have to watch Brooklyn 99 all the time and change your sheets.”

You kicked his shin. “You offered!” 

He grabbed your leg with his hand and shifted it back into place, leaving his hand resting on your thigh. “Shut up. I’m trying to watch.”

“I thought you hated-” you laughed.

“Oh for fuck’s sake,” Jeongin groaned, and he pinned you to the floor, tickling you until the two of you collapsed in a laughing heap, the show still running, dinner half eaten, drinks long forgotten.

The one thing you’d failed to mention to Jeongin was your habit of falling off the bed during the night. You were a professional tosser and turner, and that often ended up with you snapping out of your dreams face-down on the wooden floor, bruises littering your hips, knees and any other joint that was lucky enough to be the first to break your fall.

When you woke up, you were mortified to find yourself not on exposed hardwood, but on a mattress. With someone else, who was staring at you curiously.

“Fuck!” you groaned, shoving your face into the sheets. “I’m sorry. When did I end up here?”

Jeongin checked his phone. “Maybe 4 am? I don’t know, I didn’t notice until I rolled over and somebody’s face was in front of mine.”

“What’s the time now?”

“Just past 7.”

You rolled over and stared at the ceiling. “I should get up then.”

“Yeah, me too,” Jeongin agreed, but neither of you made any attempt to move.

You looked around your room, interested in your lower perspective. It still looked empty, too similar to when you’d first moved in. You’d been so caught up in studying and seeing your friends that you had forgotten to properly decorate your room.

“Your room’s boring,” Jeongin commented, as if reading your mind.

“Rude. But you’re right,” you agreed. “Maybe during the summer I’ll decorate it. Buy some posters, maybe find some new furniture on Facebook Marketplace.”

Jeongin nodded in approval. “I can help, if you want.”

“How can I trust that you’ll pick good home decor?” you rolled to face him, squinting.

“I know your taste, I’ve been living with you a year now,” Jeongin replied, scrolling through his phone. “Trust me, I don’t think I’ve forgotten a single thing about you.”

You chuckled. “Aw, do you have one of those lists with all my favourite things or something?”

“Nope. It’s all in here,” he tapped the side of his head, smiling playfully.

“Really?”

“Yeah. Do you want me to prove it?” he asked, turning to face you, eyes serious.

“Okay, then I’ll do the same,” you agreed.

Jeongin ran a hand through his hair and set his phone down. “Your favourite fruits are peaches, but nectarines come a close second. If stone fruits aren’t in season, you’ll settle for citrus. You’re prescribed an iron supplement, but you never take it, because you say it tastes like metal. Your favourite colour is pale blue, but it didn’t match the personal colour analysis that app gave you and you’ve been angry about it ever since. You drink with your friends, but don’t like getting drunk while you’re out since you have a fear of being kidnapped. You haven’t had a boyfriend since 12th grade, and you’re secretly in love with me,” he finished, eyes sparkling with mischief.

You rolled your eyes at his final statement. “Alright, Yang Jeongin. You’re the youngest in your friendship group but hate being babied, and you wanted to be a primary school teacher growing up. Your favourite colour is green, and you can fit a whole slice of pizza in your mouth. You can actually sing decently well, but never do, and you actually love Brooklyn 99 more than I do. You love buying clothes, and your favourite place to do so is the vintage shop down the road, where you spend all of your time and all of your money. And, above all, you get no bitches.”

“Don’t you classify as a bitch?” He laughed. “You did well, though. Everything you said was right.”

“You were right too,” you sighed. “I really thought you were going to say something insanely stupid that I could tease you for.”

Jeongin raised an eyebrow. “Did you forget that last statement?”

You ignored him. “I genuinely can’t believe you know that much about me. Fuck, I have to hide more about myself. I hate being perceived.”

Jeongin chuckled in amusement. “I pay attention. It’s weird hearing everything someone knows about you all at once. What am I supposed to do with that information?”

“I think we have to make out now,” you said casually.

He nodded, unsurprised. “I think we do.”

You shuffled closer, and he moved to lie above you, weight on his elbows. His eyes glittered, and his cheeks were tinged with peach. You smiled up at him, face warm and tingling. He leaned in, pressing his lips against yours softly, and you sighed into his mouth at the feeling. You moved your hands to cup his cheeks, deepening the kiss, pulling apart when you both lost your breath.

“You were right,” you panted, lips swollen. 

“About?”

“Me being secretly in love with you.”

He smiled. “Well, you were wrong. About me getting no bitches. It wouldn’t be presumptuous to assume you’re my bitch, considering the fact that we just kissed?”

“I won’t be for long if you keep calling me that. It’s girlfriend to you now,” you giggled, and he wrapped an arm around your torso, pulling you tight onto his chest.

[princessmaybank]

New Message

Pairings: JJ x fem!bestfriend!xreader

Warnings: MDNI, unsolicited dick pic, sexting, mention of masterbation, making out, etc.

Summary: JJ woke Y/N up at early hours of the morning because he needed her help.

Authors Note: Enjoy! Let me know if I should write a part 2!

I woke up to the sound of my phone going off. I looked at the clock that sat next to my bed. It read 1:36am.

*1 New Message from Jayj <3*

JJ: Hey are you awake?

I groaned. What could my best friend possibly need at this time? Was he in trouble? Was he hurt? I had no idea.

Y/N: I am now. What's up are you okay??

I wasn't expecting an immediate response but that's what I got.

JJ: No I need your help

Y/N: What's wrong?? Do I need to come get you?

JJ: No but if you came over I wouldn't mind 😉

That is not the kind of response that you use when your friend thinks you are dying, well unless you are JJ Maybank.

Y/N: Okay then what do you need?? Why did you wake me up???

JJ: I'm hornyyyyy

A sudden redness shot to my cheeks. JJ definitely play flirted with his friends, including me but this takes the cake. Yes he was hot, yes I had a little crush on him, no I did not expect this.

Y/N: Uhm- why are you telling me this JJ?

JJ: Bc you're my best friend, and I've noticed the way you've been looking at me. You undress me with your eyes every time you see me

Somehow I was blushing even harder than before. How did he know? Before I could respond I heard my phone ding again.

JJ: I know you wanna see what I'm packing, you're at least a lil curious.

(Authors Note: MDNI!!! This is a RANDOM dick pic I found online. Please proceed at your own risk.)

I gasped. I wasn't entirely ready to see that, but I'm not gonna lie I did like it.

Y/N: JJ. You're my best friend, and don't you have a line of girls ready for you at all times?

JJ: I mean I guess, but none of them are you.

JJ WANTED ME?!?! OF ALL PEOPLE, MY BEST FRIEND WHO I HAVE HAD A CRUSH ON FOR A YEAR, WANTS ME?!?!

Y/N: What do you need from me JJ?

JJ: I need you to talk dirty to me please. I'll do anything.

I gave in so quickly. This could be the one chance I have with him.

Y/N: Are you touching yourself baby?

This was my first time talking like this so I had no idea what I was doing.

JJ: Just for you princess.

The thought of JJ touching himself to me and calling me princess got me extremely excited.

I couldn't stop my hand from creeping into my pants as I texted JJ back with my non-dominant hand.

Y/N: Mmm Jayj I can't stop thinking about your huge cock.

JJ: Oh fuck, please tell me you are touching yourself too.

I wasn't sure if I should lie or not.

Y/N: Of course I am after seeing you.

JJ: Good girl.

Fuck. Me. That is so hot, especially coming from him of all people.

Y/N: JJ I need you. I can't just do this by myself. I'm no good at dirty talk.

JJ: *Read 2:04 AM*

Oh no. He hates me now. He knew I wasn't experienced but he was always nice about that. This will be awkward to bring up at a later time.

About 10 minutes went by and I heard a *tink* on my window. I look over and see JJ sitting on my roof waving back at me. I eagerly opened my window and welcomed him in. Before I could get any words to leave my mouth his hands found my hips and his lips had found mine. He walked me backwards until my legs hit the edge of my bed. He laid me down and continued our deep kiss.

"Fuck you're so hot." He whispered in my ear after sucking on my soft spot. There would definitely be a mark on my neck for a little while. I blushed when I heard him call me that. No one has ever called me that. Then I started to get self conscious. "JJ...before we continue I want to know your intentions." "Y/N. I have been in love with you since the day we met. I was waiting for you for years. I realized you probably would never want me, so I started acting like a slut. But my intentions are to please you tonight and hopefully every night for the rest of our lives. Ya know if you let me ask you out." I couldn't stop the redness forming in my cheeks. I tried to put up a wall of confidence really fast. "Is that your way of asking Maybank? Or just what you say to all of your random hookups?" My eyebrow lifted as I stared into his gorgeous blue eyes. "Maybe it is, and I've never said that to anyone else, I cross my heart and hope to die." His eyes never left mine as he made the hand motions to go with his phrase. I trusted him. I trusted this man with my whole heart. I didn't say anything, I just attached my lips to his once again. This was going to be a long night and a good life.

(Authors Note: Let me know if you'd like a part two! I was going to write a whole sex scene but I thought this was already long enough.)

[kooksvspogues]

Happy 1st Birthday Lilian!! 🥳

Part 4 -

Authors note: Let me know if y’all are enjoying the slow burn with this story or have any suggestions! Would love some more input from y’all ❤️❤️❤️

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

~~~~~ Drew’s POV ~~~~~

I know I told her I didn’t want anything more than to just be friends, but how could I not want more. The connection we had the night at the wedding was something I’ve never experienced before. She is something I’ve never experienced before. I thought I could handle being around her and keeping our deal, and I think I could’ve if Austin never showed this much interest in her. The way he talked about her when she was walking into the pool with my niece; “look at the ass on that girl, holy shit, and those boobs, jaaackpooot” he grinned putting up both his fist waiting for Chase and I to bump his, to which I just gave him a stern stare while Chase nonchalantly bumped his fist, trying to send a text.

“You know girls aren’t just a piece of ass, right?” I stared at him

“Well yeah, but it makes it so much better when they have one, ya know why I’m talking about Drew” he winks at me

“That’s my sisters friend, don’t do anything stupid” I plead

“I won’t do anything she isn’t about” Austin tapped my shoulder before getting up and joining Mack and Maddie in the pool.

I couldn’t help the pit that was forming in my stomach or the rage and adrenaline I was feeling in my entire body. I watched as she smiled up at him, but not the same way she smiles at me. She kept trying to keep her distance with him no matter what he tried, and for that, I was grateful.

Austin snatching her up before anybody could say anything to be his partner for beer pong, now that hurt. Beer pong was how we met at the wedding. She stepped up to be my partner since my buddy Paul had stepped away and she ended up being the best partner I’ve ever had in beer pong, plus, she was nice to look at too.

She had done changed out of her bridesmaid dress and into a short light yellow dress and had ditched her heels. Her curled dark brown hair was falling around her shoulders, and for some weird reason, all I could think of was the Disney princess, Belle. When I found out her name was Maddie and put it together that she was my sister’s roommate in college, I couldn’t help but me intrigued. I had heard so many stories and felt like I knew her personally but this was the first time we have been in the same area at the same time.

We won every round of beer pong we did. We laughed and flirted with each other like it was the most normal thing we’ve ever done. When we finally got done playing, we went upstairs to where the balcony was. I had untucked and unbuttoned my shirt to where it was just hanging, leaving the undershirt revealed. I sat down, leaned against the paneling,before pulling her down to sit in between my legs and lean back against my chest. Opening the bottle of champagne we snatched on the way up. That was the most comfortable I had ever been. We sat there for hours just talking about everything, what we wanted out of life, where we wanted to be in 10 years, family, kids, kid name ideas, dream vacations, just anything that come up while we just sat there playing with each others hands and passing the bottle back and fourth with the other. At one point she turned sideways and put her legs over mine while one of her hand planted itself on the wood behind us causing her to face me.

“You really are not what I expected” she admitted

“I’m gonna need you to elaborate on that, love” I teased smiling

“Just that, I have seen pictures of you, but just didn’t really expect you to be this hot in person, plus the fact that you’re insanely amazing at conversation.” She admits, her face turning a light shade of red when she makes eye contact with me

“I could say the same thing about you” I smile before leaning in closer to her, looking back and forth from her eyes to her lips. I reached up and placed my hand on the side of her neck, my thumb against her jaw just as our lips met.

“You are so beautiful” I whisper to her, feeling her smile against my lips, as she pulls her legs back to her before turning completely and straddling me, reconnecting our lips immediately.

The kiss was so deep, tender, gentle, rough, everything you could ever want in a kiss. What felt like would never end got cut short the moment I started kissing down her neck. She tapped my chest making me pull back and look up at her.

“We shouldn’t be doing this, your Mack’s brother” she says starting to stand up

“Maddie..” I say grabbing her hand

“No, let’s just pretend it didn’t happen, okay? For Mack?” She begs and I just nod slightly, watching as she takes a deep breath before running back downstairs.

Now I’ve had to watch Austin’s hand on the small of her back, lifting her up, her almost naked body against his, his hand so close to her ass and his face so close to her chest, then for him to have the audacity to place his hand on her leg right next to me.

I couldn’t do it, I can’t watch this, I can’t let her get away this time. I just need to make sure she still feels something on her end towards me before I do anything else. Which is why my feet quickly sped upstairs to her once Mack came back outside, telling everyone I had to run to the bathroom.

But, yet again, she ran away. But she also didn’t deny still feeling anything. Just gonna take some time to break through that wall, and I’m willing to do whatever I got to do.

~~~~~ Maddie’s POV ~~~~~

I walk into the downstairs bathroom, closing and locking the door quietly. Fanning my eyes, trying to keep myself from crying, but I fail quickly at that, feeling a tear fall from both eyes. I place my hands on the counter and look at myself in the mirror.

“I got this, it’s just a week of being around him, I can make that, I’m here for Liliana and Mack, that’s it” I whisper to myself before looking down at the floor shaking my head. I wipe the few tears away, open the door, and head back outside when I see Drew coming down the stairs.

“Maddie�� he says

“Drew” I say opening the back door slightly

“Wait” he says just as I open the door completely and walk out “or not” I hear him mumble before walking out behind me, keeping the door cracked just incase Liliana wakes up.

Everyone else was back in the pool so I went to the edge and just sat down putting my feet in the water. A few minutes later, Drew walks over with two bottles of beer, offering one to me.

“Truce?” He asks as I look up at him

“…truce” I say grabbing the bottle as he goes to sit down next to me.

“I’m sorry” he whispers as we watch the rest of the groups playing beer pong

“It’s okay, I get it, that night was great, neither one of us can deny that, but me and you in any way, just can’t happen” I whisper to him

“Can I ask why?” He asks looking over at me with curious eyes

“Me and Mack made a promise, both of us have brothers, we knew at some point we’d meet them, and we promised that family, especially brothers were off limits cause we never wanted to jeopardize our friendship in any way” I explain quietly as he nods biting his lip, looking down at her hands right next to each other.

“I get that.. but is that real—“ He starts but I cut him off when I see Austin swimming over to us grabbing my legs, rubbing his thumb against them

“Hey gorgeous” he smiles up at me as I smile down at him slightly, “want to come be my partner again?” He asks me

“Nah, I’m good right here, I’ve done dried off” I say

“Oh okay, well if you change your mind, I’ll be waiting for you” he winked before getting called back over for his turn.

“Is that really gonna be a thing?” Drew asks looking over at me

“I don’t know… he’s sweet.. we’ll see” I confess

“Please don’t jump into something with him” he pleads

“I’ll be okay” I smile over at him

“I know, but still..” he says locking eyes with me as we just stare at each other.

“Why aren’t you looking away?” He asks me smirking

“Oh shut up” I say smiling, pushing him away making him laugh

“You can’t do that” he says in a warning tone

“Do what?” I ask furrowing my eyebrows

“Look at me like that” he states

“Like what?” I curiously ask

“Like you want me to just lean over and kiss you like we did their wedding night, like we’re the only two people that are here” he quietly explains keeping his eyes locked with mine

“Are you ever gonna give that up?” I tease him knocking my shoulder into his

“Not a chance sweetheart” he winks at me making me shake my head.

“You’re a headache” I laugh

“Just a man trying to be your headache, my bad” he throws his arms up laughing making me roll my eyes playfully

I catch Mack and Garrett in the corner of my eye looking over at us before whispering something to each other. I clear my throat and jerk the huge smile off my face looking over at the group of boys playing beer pong.

Me and Mack lock eyes and she has her arms crossed, an eyebrow raised, with a slight smirk on her face. I raise my eyebrows at her in curiosity and she just shakes her head, still smirking before looking away from me.

Great…

Chase and Austin end up leaving not too long after they got done with playing beer pong. Of course, Austin couldn’t leave without planting a kiss on my cheek. Which made me feel more weird than anything.

“Mack, can I stay here, I’m too drunk to drive home�� Logan says a lot louder then needed as he wrapped his around around me planting his chin on the top of my head

“Yeah, that’s fine, Drew you staying here too?” Mack’s asked

“Yeah, might as well” he says

“Okay, y’all can take the other guest bedroom till mom gets here if you want or one can stay on the couch and the other in the bed, y’all choose.” Mack tells them, “you know where everything is, me and Garrett are going to bed” she said giving all of us a hug, “do you need anything before I go to bed?” She asks me when we she pulls away

“Oh no, I’m good, thank you though” I smile at her as she gives me a look that I can’t decipher before walking upstairs.

“Mads, can I just sleep with you, I want cuddles” Logan begs

“Why don’t you go cuddle with your brother” I tease

“That’s weird” he said making me and Drew laugh

“Here, let’s get you to bed” Drew says taking Logan’s arms off me before walking him to the guest room. I go to the fridge and grab a bottle of water before heading for the stairs.

“Hey, goodnight” Drew says at the door. I turn to face him, giving him a smile

“Goodnight Starkey” I say before going up the stairs and into my room.

I decide to go ahead and get a quick shower, wash off all of the stress from today. When I get out, I throw on a big shirt and crawl into bed. Leaning over to turn the lamp off is when I notice a note sitting on the nightstand. I grab it off the table to read it,

Maddie,

I know you say that we can’t happen and all I know as of right now is because of Mack. But, at any point you’re ready to give it a shot, I’ll be waiting, cause I’m not giving up on you. There’s nothing in me that will allow me to. Just give in to what we both know you’re feeling.

Text me - ###-###-####,

Drew

I can’t help but smile but also know deep down I can’t give in completely. Not yet. But I do decide to go ahead and add his number to my contacts, deciding to go ahead and text him so he has my number too, just incase something ever happens and he needs it.

“Goodnight again Starkey” I text him and roll over to get comfortable.

“Goodnight beautiful, glad to finally have your number” he texts me back.

I shake my head, deciding to leave it at that for right now, closing my eyes and letting the alcohol take over and hopefully giving me a good nights rest.

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

Tag list: @percysley @dilfs-4life

[peachesyeo]

The Maestro The Others

word count - 3k words pairings - seventeen ot13 x fem!oc genre - mature, dark romance, cultish/yandere, mystery , crack chapter warnings - none

author's notes - this is also posted on ao3! lalali m/v killed lots of people, (esp. mingyu's jacuzzi(?) part, boy know what he's doing) and i simply adore vernon's outfit!

thank you @sousydive for beta reading!

series taglist — @seungkwanschicken pernament taglist — @sousydive @yeodeulz @oddracha @jaerisdiction @yukichan67 @evidive @onysmamas

back to masterlist?

Dear Mr. [REDACTED],

We have received news of your newborn child. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to you and your wife for her safe delivery. Please be reminded of your promise with us, and we trust that you will fulfill it.

Sincerely,

The Residents of the Maestro

When I finished packing, it was already seven. I decided to change into a pair of casual outfits - a simple white tee with black jeans. As I tied my hair up into a neat ponytail, I couldn’t help but feel nervous about the dinner later. Would it be rude of me to show up empty-handed? It is my first time visiting; I want to leave a good impression.

I glanced around the apartment, searching for something I could bring. Spotting a vase on the counter, I quickly grabbed it and rushed to the balcony, plucking a few fresh flowers from the potted plants. I made a simple bouquet, placing them on the coffee table.

I hope they don’t mind flowers, the owner of 301.

The doorbell rang again, and I hurriedly checked my outfit in the mirror one last time before rushing to the door. “Coming!” I called, opening it to find Soonyoung standing there, a familiar bright grin on his face.

“Hi! Shua hyung told me to come and pick you up. Oh, and to pass you this…” Soonyoung grinned.

“Hi, Hoshi, thank you,” I said, taking the file. “Are we going to 301?”

“Yeah, to Mingyu’s.” Soonyoung's grin widened. His gaze lingered on my outfit. “Nice fashion sense, you dress like Kwannie. He lives in 401, by the way,” he added, his voice light and casual.

Jeonghan, Chan, Mingyu, Kwannie... How many people live in this strange apartment complex? “I see… I'll put this down,” I said, rushing to put the document on the coffee table. Taking the bouquet, I went back to Soonyoung. “Let's go…”

“Hang on, let's go with Hoonie and Dokyeom,” Soonyoung said, noticing the bouquet in my hands. “That’s a nice bouquet.”

Hoonie and Dokyeom, that’s two more names. Adding the three men and the four names earlier, there must be more than ten residents here. “Thank you… I didn’t want to show up empty-handed…”

“I’m sure Mingyu would appreciate it,” Soonyoung said kindly. I walked alongside him to the corridor on the other side of the elevator. The both of us stopped in front of the apartment door labelled 203.

Something about the atmosphere felt off, as if there was an underlying current of secrecy that I couldn't quite put my finger on. Soonyoung knocked on the door, shouting. “Hoon? Are you done?” he called out.

Silence followed, broken only by the sound of approaching footsteps. Soon, a pale figure wearing a grey hoodie and sweatpants opened the door. He shared the same almond eyes as Hoshi, framed by long lashes. Despite the gentle flush to his cheeks, there was a coldness in his gaze, as if he were distant, detached. It gave him the appearance of a strawberry mochi with a frosty exterior.

He eyed me silently, before casting a questioning glance at Soonyoung, silently demanding an explanation. Soonyoung pulled him out in front of him, turning to me. “This is Lee Jihoon. Hoonie, this is Raeyang, the new resident in 201.”

“Are we doing introductions now?” A sudden voice joined from behind me. I jumped again, turning to see a tall blonde man shutting the door of 204. His eyes were round and lively, sparkling with a mischievous glint. 

Beneath his straight and well-defined nose, his lips were full and curved into a wide, charming smile, revealing a set of perfectly aligned teeth. “Oh, you must be the new neighbour, Kang Raeyang, right?” he exclaimed warmly. I nodded, and he shot me a cheeky wink. “Hi, I’m Lee Seokmin, you can call me Dokyeom. Don’t worry about Jihoon, he looks distant but he’s a huge softie-”

“Kyeom, shut up,” Jihoon muttered, scowling at Seokmin. I looked to Soonyoung for help, but he seemed entertained by the turns of events. “Now, don’t fight, you know Cheol hyung would be annoyed…”

“Not fighting,” Jihoon avoided my eyes. “Hi, welcome to the family,” he murmured, closing his door and heading towards the elevator. Soonyoung nudged me with a grin, gesturing me to follow after Jihoon. Seokmin caught up to me, sending me a friendly smile.

“I heard about your parents,” he started, his tone friendly yet with a hint of something peculiar. “I’m sorry about them. They were nice.”

“You know my parents? Oh, right. They owned this building.” The bitterness from earlier seemed to creep back into my heart. As we waited for the elevator, Seokmin patted my shoulder, his smile unwaveringly warm but his touch lingering a bit longer than usual. “Well, Raeyang. We don’t keep secrets here, so I can assure you that Shua really told you everything he knows.”

“Dokyeom’s right,” Soonyoung agreed, his cheerful demeanour not faltering, but there was something in his eyes that seemed to hint at a deeper understanding. Seokmin retrieved his hand while Jihoon leaned on the wall with his arms crossed, his expression unreadable.

“Over here, everyone knows everything about everyone. No one has a secret. We’re a big family. Right, Hoonie?” Soonyoung nudged Jihoon, who was still avoiding my gaze. He nodded silently at Soonyoung's cue.

Just as I opened my mouth to speak, the elevator arrived with a ‘ding’. The doors opened, revealing a young man standing inside. He looked like he stepped out of a painting; his eyes were like pools of liquid silver, framed by long lashes that gave him a dreamy, otherworldly gaze. His nose was straight and slender, leading down to lips that were soft and inviting. His hair was tied up into a short ponytail, and when he spoke, his voice was soft and angelic.

“Oh? What a coincidence.” His lips curled. Jihoon inclined his head at him, while Seokmin and Soonyoung greeted him loudly. “Jeonghan hyung!” 

So this is the Jeonghan that was supposed to show me around earlier. Jeonghan stepped aside, allowing the four of us to enter the elevator. “Hello, Raeyang, I am Yoon Jeonghan,” he introduced himself with a slight tilt of his head, his voice soft. “I apologise for not being able to show you around earlier, I was busy. Nice bouquet you have there, by the way.”

As the elevator door closed, his eyes seemed to glint with a hidden emotion. I could feel the heat rising to my face as I shook my head. “Thank you.. And no, it’s okay. Seungcheol showed me around,” I said, hoping that Jeonghan wouldn’t notice the blush on my face.

But Jeonghan laughed lightly, “I know he didn’t, Raeyang. You don’t even know where the letterbox is,” he said casually, his tone lying with a hint of… anger? “But maybe I can show you around tomorrow, Raeyang. How does that sound to you?”

“Sure…” I replied, feeling a chill run down my spine as the air in the lift turned colder than usual. Suddenly, it felt suffocating to be standing right next to Jeonghan. The elevator stopped, saving me from the silent tension. I quickly exited, eager to escape his unsettling presence.

There were two unfamiliar faces standing in the middle of the lobby. One of them was a tall, thin man with a black mullet. He wore a thin brown button-up with black pants, and his feet were clad in comfortable sandals. The other man had silver hair and was dressed in a simple hoodie, paired with grey sweatpants and running shoes.

Once again, why are they all so good-looking?

“Minghao! Hansollie! What are the two of you doing outside?” Seokmin called out loudly, gaining their attention.

I silently switched my position to stand beside Jihoon instead, feeling safer with him than with Jeonghan. Jihoon gave me a weird look, and I returned a smile back to him. He paused, his eyes widening a little before turning away from me. 

“Ah, hyungs.” The man with the silver hair spoke. He looks mixed, with fair skin and a pair of light, hazel eyes. “We were just waiting for Kwan and Jun hyung.” His brows raised when he saw me. “Is this the new neighbour?”

“Yeah. Raeyang, this is Vernon, or Hansol, his Korean name. That’s Minghao,” the thin man with the mullet tilted his head at me. It was then I realised that his eyes were actually electrifying blue. “Hello.”

“Hello, Miss Raeyang.” Minghao’s voice is surprisingly soft. Vernon, on the other hand, nodded at me. “What’s up?” He said coolly. I gave him an awkward smile, the goosebumps once again rising up my arm. “Erm, I’m all good?”

“That’s nice to know.” Vernon’s features crinkled into a smile as he raised a thumbs up at me. Seokmin clapped him on his back, while Soonyoung hung an arm over Minghao’s shoulder. “Should we go in first? I wanna introduce Raeyang.” Soonyoung grinned, while Vernon seemed unfazed. “You guys can go in first. Jeonghan hyung, Kwan asked for you too.” He said, before his gaze fell on me again. “I believe Mingyu hyung would be very happy to see a new face.” 

Minghao cleared his throat, and for a moment he seemed to be struggling to speak. “Is… Is that bouquet of flowers for Mingyu?” Minghao pressed his lips together, after he had spoken. I nodded in response, and he quickly looked away, not speaking another word. I blinked, not understanding his reaction. 

“Alright then, let’s go, Raeyang!” Seokmin, seemingly noticing the rising awkwardness, let go of Vernon, beckoning me. Jihoon muttered something under his breath as he quickly walked past me to the corridor. I quickly followed in his footsteps, while Seokmin and Soonyoung trailed behind me. Feeling a nod on my shoulder, I turned my head around. Seokmin gave me an apologetic grin. “Sorry about Minghao, he’s not really good at socialising.” 

“Ah, no, I wasn’t offended or anything.” I said quickly, waving my hands in front of my chest. Seokmin patted his own. “Thank goodness, a lot of people thought Hao had an attitude. He’s nice, he’s just a little introverted-”

“We’re here.” Jihoon’s voice cut Seokmin’s words off again. Apartment 301 was just right at the corner. The door was left open, and Jihoon went straight in. I held the bouquet of flowers tightly in my hand, entering the apartment. 

A large, spacious living room greeted me as I entered. In it, I could see a kitchen. A tall figure was busing behind the stove, talking animatedly as another worked quietly next to him. A huge dinner table was placed in the middle of the living room, and Seokmin headed straight towards a black-haired man in a black hoodie sitting by the couch. Once he noticed us, he quickly stood up.

The man’s eyes were bright and expressive, and they seemed to hold a sense of mischief. His nose was small and slightly upturned, giving him a boyish charm. His lips were curled into a mischievous grin as he spoke. “Is this who I think she is?”

“Bingo!” Soonyoung clapped loudly, followed by Seokmin. The man held out his hand to me. “Hi, I’m Lee Chan. You can call me by my stage name Dino, or just Chan.” 

A stage name, just like Soonyoung. They must be some kind of performers. I reached out to shake his hand. “My name is Kang Raeyang, nice to meet you, Chan.” I said, as the two people working in the kitchen walked out. “Ah! New neighbour!” The taller one said loudly, taking off his apron while the other beside him adjusted his glasses. “Hi, I’m Kim Mingyu, this is Jeon Wonwoo.” 

Mingyu's appearance could be described as strikingly sinful; his face is strong, with a square jawline that gives him a ruggedly handsome look. His eyes, a deep shade of brown, hold a mixture of warmth and intensity, like smouldering embers. His eyebrows are thick and well-defined, adding to the intensity of his gaze. I was reminded of the sexy models I’ve seen in magazines - well, that could be Mingyu, only if he wasn’t smiling so brightly. 

Beside him, Wonwoo's face had a different aura. His eyes, dark and deep, and beneath his sharply defined eyebrows, his gaze held a quiet intensity. His sharp jawline gave his face a certain ruggedness, contrasting with the softness of his lips, which are now curved into a subtle smile. 

Noticing that I have been staring at Mingyu for quite a while, I quickly handed out the bouquet of flowers, hoping that no one noticed my flustered state. “I’m Kang Raeyang, sorry for coming at such short notice… I should have brought something better…”

Mingyu blinked, and then tears welled up in his eyes. I stood in shock as he sniffed, taking the flowers from me. “Oh, that’s s-so sweet of you, Raeyang… These jerks here didn’t even get me anything when I have been working my ass off, cooking them food…”

“I helped you prepare them,” Wonwoo's voice was low, sounding tired. Chan rolled his eyes in response, while Seokmin clapped his hands together, checking the time. “It’s almost seven fifteen, is dinner ready yet?”

Mingyu recovered almost immediately. “I’ll go find a vase for these flowers. Chan, set the table. The rest of you, bring out the dishes.” As the others moved to obey his command, he turned to me, grinning. I noticed that his incisors are quite pointy, like a vampire. “Meanwhile, Raeyang, do you mind helping me supervise them? Especially Chan.” 

“Yah! Kim Mingyu, you dramatic puppy!” Chan scowled and Mingyu stuck his tongue out at him. Soonyoung quickly ushered me to the kitchen. “Ignore the both of them, they are very childish…” 

“Says the person who believes that he’s a tiger!” Chan yelled from behind, and Soonyoung's eyes turned wide with disbelief. He turned back, hands on his hips. “What are you talking about? I am a tiger-”

A pair of pale hands suddenly pulled me into the kitchen. I yelped in surprise as Jihoon swiftly moved in front of me. He scowled at the noise outside, slamming the kitchen door shut after Wonwoo and Seokmin entered.

"They are so noisy," he muttered, his tone exasperated as he leaned against the door, letting go of my wrist as he folded his arms. Wonwoo snorted and went back to the pots and plates, filling them up with the delicious-smelling food while Seokmin helped him.

I stepped forward to lend a hand, but I felt Jihoon grab my wrist again. I looked back at him, not understanding. “I want to help…” I started, but Jihoon shook his head. “You can help Chan take out the plates, he’ll come in after they stop yelling.” He pointed to two cabinets opposite Wonwoo and Seokmin. “There’s fourteen of us including you.”

“Alright…” I quickly took out the utensils. Jihoon opened the drawer beside me, carefully taking out the cutlery. The shouts outside died out, followed by a loud cackling of laughter and a roar of anger by someone unseen. I looked up in fear at the roar, but the other three in the kitchen didn't seem to be affected by it.

Soon, the kitchen door slid open, and Chan marched in, looking furious. His eyes blazed as he stormed past us, muttering curses under his breath.

"Stupid Seungkwan hyung," Chan complained to Wonwoo while walking past him, taking a tray from the shelves above and starting to load the cutlery Jihoon had placed on the counter. "I’ll bite his head off one day, acting like he owns the place again… And Cheol hyung always sides with him…"

Seungkwan. Soonyoung and Vernon had both mentioned his name. “Kwan’s here?” Seokmin asked interestedly, while Chan gave him a side eye, exiting the kitchen. Wonwoo sighed, giving me an embarrassed smile. “Sorry, they are like Tom and Jerry-”

“I heard that the new neighbour is here!” A head peeked out from behind the kitchen door. He has a slightly rounded face with soft, chubby cheeks, his eyes bright with light. He has a slightly pointed nose and a prominent chin, and his hair was dyed to a soft brown, falling short from his eyes. “Oh, hello! Jun hyung! Come say hi!”

A second head peeked into the kitchen. He has high cheekbones and a defined jawline, his nose is straight and well-proportioned, adding to the symmetry of his face. Unlike Seungkwan, who seemed friendly and excited, he seemed a little tired and disinterested. “Hi.”

I placed my hands in front of me politely. “Hello, I’m Kang Raeyang.”

Seungkwan waved his hand dismissively. "Don’t need to be so informal. I’m Boo Seungkwan, and this is Wen Junhui.”

“And can you not block the door?” Chan’s irritated voice came from behind them, and Seungkwan quickly turned around, scowling. “Is that how you talk to your elders, you rascal?”

“The both of you, enough!” A familiar deep voice boomed from the living room, instantly quieting the both of them. Junhui disappeared, while Seungkwan pouted. “Okay, okay, hyung. Keep your hair on.”

“He’s even more naggy than Kim Mingyu.” Chan muttered as Seungkwan stepped aside for him to go into the kitchen. Meanwhile, Seokmin had loaded the dishes onto another tray. “Hey, Raeyang, do you mind helping me with these?”

“Sure,” I nodded and walked over to him. Wonwoo passed me a second tray, “careful.” He warned. I followed Seokmin to the living room, where a big dining table is set up. Most of the seats are filled with the people I’ve seen. Joshua sent a gentle smile my way. “Hello, Raeyang.”

“Hi, Joshua.” I replied, standing beside him and putting down the tray. Opposite him, Seungcheol frowned. “Why are you loading the dishes?” He snapped, looking frustrated. 

“Oh,” I was a little taken aback by his reaction. “I said I wanted to help…”

A pair of slender hands appeared on Seungcheol’s shoulder. I see Jeonghan shaking his head at Seungcheol, before turning to me with a smile.

“Thank you for helping, Raeyang,” he started. “But I think you should just sit down, Vernon will take it from here,” as if on cue, Vernon stood up, giving me a lazy smile. “You can sit there.” He pointed to an empty seat next to Junhui, and the mentioned man waved at me. “Dinner will start soon.”

previous // next

©peachesyeo, 2024

i do not own the dividers nor pictures used in banner. all credit goes to their original owners. owner of animated / 18+ banner ; owner of rose banner

[ikeromantic]

I'd like to ask for a mix of sweet and spicy with my favorite kitsune Mitsuhide🤭 what better way to kickstart the new year than with a scene taking place NYE!? My OC is Mikasa, she's just as playful a tease as he is but he far exceeds her abilities🤭 thank you!

I love this ask ^_^ Here's a little modern AU with Mitsuhide and Mikasa on NYE, approx 800 words. A little spice, a little sugar!

Mitsuhide leaned against the balcony rail, his eyes not on the starlit expanse above the glittering city skyline, but into the penthouse suite. He found the view within a thousand times more beautiful. 

"Are you watching me get dressed?" Mikasa's voice held a teasing note. She knew full well he was watching her as she moved through the room in nothing but her panties, getting ready for the New Year's Eve party they'd agreed to attend. 

A sharp smile creased his face. "I was just thinking about our plans." 

She glanced at him from the corner of her eyes, a smirk playfully lifting her lips. "Oh? Well, why don't you think about it while you help me out." Mikasa dangled a lacy bralette from one finger. 

Mitsuhide took the bait. Of course he did. When your beautiful, topless lover beckoned, you came. He took the bra from her and helped her slip it on, letting his touch trail over her bare breasts before securing the fabric atop them. "Are you sure you want this on?" 

"Sure? No . . ." She laughed, her cheeks flushed. "But Masamune will be crushed if we don't make it to his party. Nobunaga might come looking for us and I don't want to think about Hideyoshi's reaction if we skip out."

Mikasa was right. They were expected and not showing up would cause some uproar. But every kitsune knew that forbidden sweets tasted best. "You're right," he sighed, leaning close so that his warm breath would ghost over the sensitive skin at the back of her neck. 

She shivered. "Mitsuhide," her voice held a warning tone just under the breathless excitement. 

He kissed her neck once for each snap on the bra. "Mmm. What is it, my little mouse? Am I not helping?"

"Oh, you're helping alright," Mikasa murmured. She turned and met his lips with a kiss of her own. Her hands slid down his sides, and the lace of her bra rasped against his shirt as she pressed close. 

Mitsuhide's pulse raced and an electric jolt of excitement arced through him. "We could arrive a bit late," he suggested after pulling back for a breath. 

"We could," Mikasa agreed. Then she stepped back from him and turned away, her hips swaying in a way he found entirely captivating. He almost missed the movement of her hand as she snagged her dress from the hangar. 

"I can see you aren't a fan of being fashionably late," he sighed. His gaze followed the hem of the dress as she slipped it over her head and slide down over her skin. 

She laughed at his mournful expression. "You know we wouldn't just be late. If I let you get started, we won't leave til tomorrow morning." 

Mitsuhide covered the distance between them in a few steps, one hand coming down on the wall beside her head. "Is that an objection to my bedroom skill?" 

He was rewarded with a flash of surprise and a merry smile. "Hmmm . . . well, your kabedon is looking pretty good. And that kiss was at least a B plus. Maybe an A minus." She traced a line down his jaw to his throat leaving a line of heat that followed her fingertip to where it rested against his collar. 

"A minus?" He raised one eyebrow. 

She shrugged, pretending nonchalance. As if she could hide the heat in her cheeks and the racing beat of her heart. 

Mitsuhide rested his other hand against her hip, hitching her skirt up slightly. "Now you've done it." He shook his head in mock dismay. "We'll be late for sure."

"What? Why?" Mikasa's eyes went wide as he gathered her skirt in his palm until her thigh was exposed. 

"I have to do better than an A minus," he purred, letting his lips brush against her ear. 

She gave a little squeak which she tried to smother. "My grading might have been hasty!" 

Mitsuhide laughed and pressed a kiss to her neck just beneath the glittering gem of her earring. "It's fine. I don't mind a re-test." He slid his palm down her thigh, letting her dress drape over his roaming hand. 

"I - I guess we can text Masamune. As long as we're there before the fireworks," she murmured. 

"Sure." Mitsuhide grinned, and then kissed her.

Masamune never got his text message. They did make it to the party though, just in time for Mikasa to see her second set of fireworks that night. Impressive as the midnight show was, they paled in comparison to the earlier display that left dappled love-bite marks across her skin and a pleasant warmth in her tired limbs.

[azrielslightintheshadows]

Hello. I would like to make a request for cassian x f!reader where its the reader's birthday but cassian alongside the whole inner circle have been busy lately and completely forgot, maybe towards the end of the day when everyone is sat down and relaxing and having dinner, they realise reader is not with them and maybe somehow they realise they forgot. And cassian is even more upset because he is her mate...lots of angsttttt but with fluff in the end!!

Forgotten.

Cassian x f!Reader

Warnings; angst. Swearing.

Masterlist.

Tbh my birthday is on July and usually everyone is on vacation so they forget about me so I didn't really know how to write this because I'm so used to it. :') Hope this is okay!

You woke up with a smile on your face, expecting to find your mate sprawled next to you snoring lightly. The smile turned to a frown when you noticed his empty side, the sheets had gone cold meaning that it had been a while since he left.

Today I’m turning 500 years old I’m sure he didn’t forget. Maybe he is planning a surprise? You thought.

Being a fae meant that you didn’t really care about birthdays unless you were entering a new century. Cassian though always spoiled you on your birthdays even though you kept telling him that it’s not important, so you knew he wouldn’t forget.

You got ready for the day and walked into the dining room; No one was there.

You furrowed your eyebrows.

“Where is everyone?” you whispered.

You ate your breakfast and waited for someone to come home, you already knew which dress you were going to wear tonight, and you only needed to find someone to tell you what they had planned for you.

 The hours passed and you stared at the sunset with tears streaming down your face.

“They forgot” you mumbled.

With a sigh you went to your room and wore the dress, you weren’t going to spend your birthday crying in your room. With one last glance at your reflection, you left the house and winnowed to Rita’s.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

“What a day” Feyre exclaimed as they all sat around the dining table.

“I’m starving” Rhysand said.

They had all returned to the house of wind from Amren’s apartment where they had spent all day going through books to find a way to control Nesta’s powers.

Big platters filled with food appeared in front of them and everyone started filling their plates. Cassian tried to grab your plate like he usually did to serve you food and frowned when he noticed the empty chair next to him.

“Where’s y/n?” he asked and glanced around.

“Maybe she is in your bedroom?” Azriel quirked a brow.

Cassian pulled the bond and his frown deepened when he realized you had blocked him. “Something’s wrong” he mumbled and got up, hurrying off to your room.

He noticed the pile of clothes on the bed and the empty spot in the open closet. You had worn the dress he had bought you a few months ago.

“I saw this and I thought you could wear it on your birthday.” He had boomed when he gave it to you.

But her birthday is on Sunday he thought and scratched his head. He walked back to the dining room and stared at his friends.

“Is she coming?” Rhysand asked.

“No, she is not here.” Your mate replied.

“She didn’t leave a note or something?” Azriel joined the conversation.

“No, but she wore the dress I gave her to wear on her birthday.” Cassian was utterly confused. “When’s her birthday?” Feyre asked curiously.

“On Sunday” Cassian replied.

“Today?” she gasped, and everyone cursed under their breaths. “IT’S SUNDAY?” Cassian shouted.

“Heyy where’s the birthday giiirl” Mor chirped as she walked into the dining room with a present in her hands.

She noticed everyone’s expressions and frowned.

“We forgot.” Rhysand spoke.

“Shit I have to find her. How could I forget this.” Cassian said as he paced. “I fucked up.”

“Where could she be?” Feyre asked him. “How should I know?” he exclaimed.

“She is your mate idiot. Don’t you know her?” Mor slapped the back of his head. Cassian thought about it and it finally hit him.

“Rita’s” he shouted and ran to the balcony flaring his wings and shooting up.

“Should we go?” Mor asked.

“No, let them have a moment. We should decorate the house and get the presents we got her here for when they come back.” Azriel said and got up.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

You were sitting at the bar with a drink in hand, even though you were deeply hurt you didn’t want to get drunk, so you just took a few small sips every now and then. You noticed how happy everyone around you was and a tear escaped from your eye.

How could he forget? You questioned again and again making you heart ache even more.

A big hand grabbed your shoulder and your mate’s musky scent filled your nostrils.

“Happy birthday doll.” He mumbled and kissed your head.

“Don’t touch me Cassian” you pulled away.

“I’m so sorry baby. We were at Amren’s apartment trying to find a book that explained Nesta’s powers. I didn’t even realize that its Sunday.” His voice broke at the end.

“I’m turning 500 years old how could you forget?” you cried out.

“I’m so so sorry. It’s been a very rough week for everyone, I didn’t realize that its Sunday.” His eyes watered. He looked so tired and sad.

“Everyone forgot about me” you mumbled and took a sip from your drink.

“I know and we all feel terrible about it. Let us make it up to you… please doll.” He said softly.

“How?” you asked.

“I immediately left when I realized you would be here but I’m sure they planned something. You know how they are and how much they love you.” He smiled and continued “And I will make it up to you tomorrow.”

“Okay…” you muttered, and he quickly picked you up.

The flight to the house was silent and you noticed how Cassian’s eyes unfocused, no doubt informing Rhys that you were going home. With a thud you landed on the balcony and Cassian placed you on your feet again. You walked inside and gasped as everyone screamed “Happy birthday!”. They had placed winter solstice garlands around the house and a few pieces of paper that had “Happy birthday y/n” and "We're so sorry" written on them. You giggled at the chaotic scene in front of you.

“We’re sorry y/n” Rhysand said. “I’m not” Mor shouted, “I didn’t forget!”

You smiled at her and then glanced back at Rhys.

“It’s okay. Thank you for all of this.” You said softly and pointed around.

You spent the rest of the night drinking with your friends and opening presents. Cassian was clinging to you, kissing your head and whispering apologies.

At some point you fell asleep on his lap, and he carried you to your room, he removed your dress and covered you with the blanket before stripping his clothes and lying next to you. He pulled you on his chest and fell asleep with a smile on his face.

✩₊˚.⋆☾⋆⁺₊✧

The next day Cassian brought you breakfast in bed and a bouquet of red roses.

He looked so excited and almost dragged you out of the house once you were dressed.

“Come on!” he shouted as you walked out to the balcony. He flew you to a field next to the Sidra.

A blanket was laid on the grass and a big basket filled with different kinds of food. “Cauldron! How did you do this?” you exclaimed.

“I had Azriel’s help, he left when he saw us approaching.” Cassian smiled.

“Its perfect!”

“I’m so sorry baby, I let you down.” He said with a sad smile.

“Its okay Cass I know how hard the past days have been for you.” You mumbled and grabbed his hand, bringing it to your lips and kissing it.

“Do you forgive me?” he asked.

“Yes but if you forget our anniversary too I’m divorcing AND rejecting you.” You narrowed your eyes and he gasped.

“You wouldn’t” “Try me” you chirped and he paled.

Poor Cass.

[experi-sketches]

Rowan and Ash - Chapter Two

Hey all! I'm so glad folks liked chapter one of Rowan and Ash, so I'm back with chapter two.

If you're wondering what the deal with this story is, or what's going on with An Iron Blood Tale, check out my notes in chapter one (linked below)

This is whumpy slavefic so please mind the content warnings. Enjoy!

_____

Content warnings: whump, slavefic, m/m master/slave dynamics, captivity & restraints, self-harm, emotional distress, power dynamics/size difference Rating: mature Word Count: 3,053

Chapter One // Chapter Three

_____

As soon as the footman closed the door behind them Rowan turned his attention to getting the boy out of the building and into the car as quickly as possible. Sefton's town residence comprised the entire floor of a tall, overly ornamented upper Shell Port high-rise, and as a guest Rowan had been graciously allowed parking in the building's private garage, so it would be a short journey to meet Jules. Rowan thanked the Saints for that; he didn't think the boy could manage a long trek down the street in his current state.

It was bad enough just walking through the crowded lobby. The slave shuffled pitifully at Rowan's side, his chained, manacled feet clanking on the marble floor and attracting stares. The poor thing looked miserable and exhausted, shoulders hunched in pain, hair a mess, hands still trapped in the saints' bridle, but despite all that he was surprisingly well behaved on a leash. He did not dare to pull at the leather lead Rowan had latched to the bridle's handle, even when it meant he had to shuffle a little faster to keep up with Rowan's longer stride. Standing, the boy was shorter than Rowan realized, barely reaching his shoulder. The perfect size for fitting in one's lap, though Rowan doubted that would happen anytime soon.

He stopped at the front desk to phone for the car, and within minutes Jules was parked out front. They exited the lobby's towering doors, Rowan's modest but perfectly respectable saloon an eyesore amongst the much larger, flashier vehicles which surrounded it. 

"In," Rowan said, opening the back passenger door, and the slave stumbled inside without a fight. Rowan slid in after, settling onto the seat while the boy huddled on the floor at his knee, a careful and undoubtably intentional measure of distance between them. 

"Welcome back, sir," Jules greeted from the front seat, looking at the boy's pitiful reflection in the rearview. "Looks like it went well."

"'Well' indeed. I should have hurled Sefton off the balcony. Look at the boy, he's petrified." 

Jules nudged the car into traffic with ease, the roads busy but not nearly as congested as they were at home. Shell Port was exclusively for the nobility, and it wasn't crowded here like it was down in Dower's Point. "I'm sure the unfetterates would applaud you if you did. Straight home, sir?"

"Yes. I need to get this one sorted out." Rowan looked down at the boy as he trembled on the floor, using his bent arms to hide his face. "We'll need to phone Doctor Curtis. Sefton said he called in his own physician, but I wouldn't trust his staff to provide anything more than basic care. And he needs a good bath." He pushed his hand into the pet's tangled curls, damp at the nape with sweat. A shiver went through the boy, but other than that he gave no reaction to his master's touch. "How does that sound, darling? Get you out of that dirty rag and all cleaned up?" His fingers caught on the gag's strap and he cursed. "Let's get this off you." 

Rowan unbuckled the mask and peeled it away, the leather sticking and leaving bright red lines on the boy's cheeks where the edges had bitten in. Saints only knew how long it'd been on. 

"There we are." He set the gag aside and used the saints' bridle to carefully tug the boy's head backwards, tilting it toward the afternoon sunlight. "Let me see you."

It was Rowan's first real look at the pet's face, and he was as lovely as excepted. His fine-boned features were soft and youthful, even in exhaustion, and Rowan was pleased to find that the mask had been hiding a beautifully arched mouth of the sort that would make a master's knees go weak, if applied properly. Rowan was already imagining the possibilities. 

"Saints, look at you. You were wasted on that selfish prick." He touched a flushed cheek. The boy kept his eyes down, pretty lips pressed thin, and breathed quickly through his nose. "You don't need to be frightened of me. I actually know a thing or two about slave handling, unlike Sefton. Isn't that right, Jules?"

"You've got a gentleman's touch, sir," Jules confirmed, grinning in the rearview.

"You see? Forget Sefton. He's a fool, and he can't hurt you anymore." He let go of the bridle, allowing the boy to hunch forward and hide his face again. Not ideal behavior, but Rowan wouldn't press the issue for today. While manners were important, it was clear the poor boy was distraught. Proper etiquette could wait until tomorrow. "The only smart thing he's ever done is sell you to me, because now that you're mine, you're safe. I won't let him or anyone else harm you. You have my word."

The ride was quiet after that. Eventually Jules flipped the radio on.

~*~

Ash kept his mouth shut and let himself be taken, inexorably, to his doom.

Stupid. Stupid, stupid, stupid.

He was really fucked now. Ash had thought he'd been fucked before, but no, as it turned out, Sefton was only a precursor to the misery that lay ahead. Ash had heard of the Banks brothers. He'd listened to the terrifying stories whispered among the other noblemen's slaves when they came to visit, and it was never anything good. 

Carver and Rowan Banks. The bulldozers. The demolishers. The breakers. 

Officially they were called something else, 'corrective handlers' or some other nonsense, because people always needed to put a prettier name on bondslavery, but everyone knew what they really were: professional torturers. When a nobleman had a particularly awful slave, a really hopeless case, the Banks brothers would spirit them away and beat them back into line. Every unruly bondslave that had ever walked into the Banks' home had come back out a gelded, tamed pet, and some, it was said, had never come back out at all. 

And here Ash was, chained and sitting at Rowan Banks' feet, heading for that very home. 

He couldn't stop shivering. 

This was why he'd hurt himself last night. He'd wanted scars. The Banks brothers, like all slave dealers and whorehouse pimps, only took in slaves that stood to earn money. Ash had wanted to damage himself, to make himself so ugly, so undesirable, that Sefton would simply toss him out like garbage. It had happened before. One heard gossip from time to time about some unfortunate pet who'd gotten injured and, with no hope for resale, was simply dumped onto the streets of the lower city to starve. Emancipated, they called it. Prettier word. 

Ash had wanted that freedom for himself. He hadn't expected Sefton to threaten pawning him off at some Gully Wharf fuck-house; he'd wanted to damage himself so badly that there'd be no risk of anyone wanting him at all. Starving alone on the streets of Templhead would have been preferable to living another day under Sefton's roof, with his unpredictable, drunken rages, the violent rapes, the leering glares and free, rough usage of his friends, and worst of all the ropes and chains—it was like being back in the chattel camp. And after the—the party, four days ago, that awful night, the terror—Ash couldn't do it anymore. He'd rather die in one of the lower city's dark alleyways, if it meant he'd die free. 

But Rowan Banks had come and taken that away from him. 

Ash wanted desperately to be free of the saint's bridle. The long cuts on his front throbbed awfully, raw and tender under the protection of the clear medical sealant. He wished he'd been given something for the pain, but Sefton never offered anything like that, no reprieves. It hurt just to breathe. Ash still felt queasy at the memory of inflicting the wounds, the hot bite of metal against skin, the sheer determination needed just to make himself do it. It'd taken hours to work up the nerve, sitting in the quiet, dark kitchen in the middle of the night with the knife in his hand. And now all that pain had been for nothing. 

Ash was so fucking stupid.

Banks was an imposing man. Tall, broad shouldered, with neatly trimmed dark hair and the respectable clothes of the well-to-do upper class. He wasn't nobility, but he was rich. And he was big enough to hurt Ash, to overpower him, to do anything he wanted, and Ash would be powerless to stop him. Banks was going to tear him apart, piece by piece, until nothing remained but a broken, mindless fuck-doll who could only be resold to some sadistic bastard who liked hideous scars and would probably inflict more.    

The tears were back in his eyes, he realized, as a large hand slid into his hair to scratch gently at his scalp. 

"You're shaking again," Banks observed from somewhere above his head in a low, deceptively easy voice. "Don't worry. We're nearly home."

Ash closed his eyes. If he still believed in the Saints he might have prayed to Saint Thelma for mercy, but he didn't, so he sat quietly and tried to think of nothing at all. 

~*~

Banks' building wasn't quite as big or as nice as Sefton's, but it was still imposing. 

They were somewhere in Dower's Point, though Ash didn't know exactly where. Despite being here for nearly a year Ash knew very little of Templhead, since most of that time had been spent behind locked doors, but he did know that Dower's Point was in the upper city, where the money was.

The driver parked the car in an underground garage and they entered the building from there, rather than going through the main lobby. The elevator ride up was long and quiet, and Ash was dismayed to note that Banks used a key to both enter the elevator and then to select a floor—not that Ash really believed he had any chance of escaping, but he always watched these things as an old force of habit. The driver came with them, standing quietly behind Banks, and Ash belatedly realized that he must be a slave. He was older than Ash and dressed in simple, black livery, a tailored tunic and trousers, nondescript but well made. 

The elevator eventually spat them out into a short hallway which contained only two doors, one each on the north and south walls. As Ash looked out into the small corridor his entire world seemed to shrink down into that confined space and close in around him, pressing his feet to the elevator floor so that when Banks stepped out, for the first time since having that stupid leash clipped to the back of his bridle, Ash found he couldn't follow.

This was it. The end of the line. Behind one of those doors was the Banks' brothers home, and once Ash went through, he didn't know when, or if, he would ever come back out. He didn't know what tortures lay in store for him behind that door, or if he would survive them, or if he even wanted to. He swallowed, throat suddenly dry. 

Banks turned and looked at him when the leash jerked taut, arching a dark brow. "Come," he said, not angrily, but it was enough to raise the hair on Ash's arms. 

"He's scared, sir," said the other slave.

Banks sighed. "All the more reason to get it over with, then. Come on." He snapped his fingers and pointed to ground at his feet. "With me. We've a lot to do, and it's nearly dinner time."

Ash tried to obey. He did, but his feet seemed frozen where they were. Even when Banks gave the leash a gentle tug, Ash only stumbled forward a step and stuttered to a halt. He wanted to obey. He didn't want to make Banks angry. He wanted to be good, because being good was smart, but he didn't want to go—

Banks huffed. "Really now. It's all right, darling. I've told you that you're safe, haven't I?" He came over and reached for Ash, and Ash flinched, expecting a hard slap to the face like Sefton used to do, but Banks only grabbed the metal handle at the back of the bridle. "I promise I don't bite."

He was as strong as he looked. Ash's chained feet were clumsy as he was pulled forward out of the elevator, nearly tripping over himself as he tried to keep pace. It wasn't painful, and Banks was careful not to choke him with the collar as he ushered Ash along, but his ironclad grip brooked no resistance and Ash felt a shiver down his spine. Even when he wasn't trapped inside a saints' bridle there was going to be very little he could do to defend himself against that strength.

He was fucked. Entirely.

They stopped in front of the door on the southward wall. It was dark and heavy looking, and secured with a large lock. Banks opened it with his key and pulled Ash inside.  

Beyond was a sleek, tidy entryway, and Ash found himself standing in the foyer of what appeared to be an expensive residence. He twisted around just in time to see the other slave closing the door behind them and heard the telltale click of an automatic lock, and knew that was it. He was trapped. 

"Was that so difficult?" Banks asked as his slave stepped behind him to slide the spring jacket off his shoulders, a pointless garment made of light, well-tailored material, and hang it in the closet. "Thank you Jules. Can you phone Doctor Curtis? I'd like him to see the boy tonight."

The slave, Jules, gave an easy smile. "Of course, sir. Was there anything else?"

"Find some fresh clothes for him. Something loose. He's got wounds on his front, and I don't want them irritated."

Jules looked a little more grim at that, smile vanishing. His eyes flicked quickly to Ash, then back to his master. "Yes, sir. I'm sure we've got something appropriate."

"Thank you. You can leave them in his room. That will be all." 

Jules bowed respectfully and hurried off. 

Banks turned his attention to Ash, unlatching the leash and placing it on a small table beside the door. Ash stood perfectly still, not daring to move a muscle. "Here's what I'm thinking," Banks said, running one of his large hands down Ash's back in a way that was probably meant to be soothing. "Let's get you out of all this nonsense and wash you up. You'll have a visit with Doctor Curtis, and then a good, solid meal. After that you'll sleep. In the morning we'll talk about your future, but tonight I want you to rest. Understood?"

Ash only nodded. He knew he should respond properly when asked a direct question, but his throat felt tight and he doubted he could speak.

Banks let him get away with it. "Come on then. This way."

The foyer led directly into a large, open lounge, and Ash realized with a jolt that this was no mere suite in a well-to-do high-rise. The lounge's windows revealed a sweeping view of Templhead from far above, the jagged skyline bathed in slanting afternoon light, with a slim stretch of blueish haze on the horizon that might have been the ocean through the smoggy shroud of distance. The home branched out in several directions from the lounge, hinting at a sprawling, extensive residence. It had been a very long elevator ride up. The Banks brothers lived in a Dower's Point penthouse.

"Ah," said a low voice, and Ash froze. "This must be Sefton's castoff."

He'd been so startled by the view that he hadn't noticed they weren't alone. The voice had come from the other side of the room where Ash couldn't see, his own arms acting like blinders in the bridle. 

Banks stopped and turned, looking over Ash's head. "It is, and thank the Saints I decided to go today and not push it off until tomorrow. Lord Sefton is a moron."

"He's nobility. All those pricks are." There was the sound of shuffling fabric, a pause, a small grunt. Then the voice went on. "Well then. Let's see him." 

Banks turned Ash round so that he could see a man sitting on the large sofa opposite the windows, and Ash's stomach dropped. It was obviously the other Banks brother. The family resemblance was strong, but this was clearly the older sibling, little wisps of grey peppering the temples of his dark hair. He was broader than his younger brother, stockier, his face more stern, and he was somehow more terrifying, although that might have had something to do with the bound and gagged slave kneeling at this feet. The boy was shaking with the effort of keeping himself upright in his restraints, his arms cruelly manacled behind his back, a ball gag strapped over his mouth and black blindfold over his eyes. He was young, perhaps Ash's age or a little less, and his disheveled red hair looked particularly bright against his flushed skin and white slave's shift. 

Carver Banks let out a long, low whistle and closed the book in his lap, setting it aside on the table. Beside him, the slave twitched. "Great Saints. Isn't he a pretty one."

"Frightened, is what he is. Sefton's nearly ruined him. It'll be an Abysmal task undoing the damage he's done."

Ash tried not to whimper. 

"So it'll be a while before you're ready for me, then?" Carver said, reaching to pet his slave's red hair, then giving it a sharp, cruel tug when the boy leaned towards the touch. "Mind your form."

"I think so." Banks looked down at Ash and smiled. "This is my brother Carver," he explained, like Ash was an idiot. "You'll be seeing quite a lot of him once he's finished working with Will there. But that won't be for some time. Not until you're ready." He looked back to his brother. "Anyways, we're off for a bath. Jules is phoning Doctor Curtis. I'd like to be finished before he arrives."

Carver waved an unbothered hand. "Don't let me keep you."

_____

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[the-fiction-witch]

Mrs Dawkins P45-49

Media - The Artful Dodger (Mrs Dawkins Series) Character - Jack Dawkins Couple - Jack X Reader Reader - Y/n Everset Rating - 15 P1 - P5 P6-P10 P11-13 P14-17 P18-22 P23-27 P28- 31 P32-P36 P37-P39 P40-44 MasterList

After breakfast, I nervously pulled the draw from my bedside table, and poured it onto the bed the mess of papers scattering ontop of the sheets.

He smirked a little at me before he egarly dug through the pile, "Awww you kept all my notes and letters?" He cooed,

"Maybe…" I blushed,

"Awww you are so cute," He cooed, "You didn't have to keep them you know,"

"I want to!" I protested,

He chuckled, "Alright you keep them all, maybe on our anniversaries we can go through them together and remember how in love we were,"

"Aww that sounds nice," I giggled laying my head on his shoulder,

"And I'll make sure you have some extra ones by then," he cooed kissing my forehead, "Oooohh found it!" He smirked as he grabbed my drawing,

I buried my face into his neck trying to hide but also watching his face,

"Humm… very good anatomy, you made me very handsome, a little… low on the drawing, a little naughty darling," He smirked rubbing his nose on my head, "But I can't be mad at you for that,"

"You're not mad at me?"

"No, how could I be mad at my lovely lady drawing me so handsome," he smiled, "There are a few issues but you hadn't seen so I'll allow it,"

"I could do another now I know…" I blushed,

"I would love you to draw me, darling,"

"You would?"

"Of course I would,"

"Well, maybe next sleepover,"

"Next sleepover," he nodded giving my lips a soft kiss, "I promise,"

We looked through things but slowly packed them away into the draw, he gathered up his stuff and made sure to dress and get ready to head back to the hospital,

"I need to get going, as much as I don't want to leave we need to." he sighed taking my hands softly, "I don't want your father to find me and get us in trouble,"

"I know… I just wish you could stay forever," I rubbed my nose on his,

"I know, I want to stay. But I won't be able to visit if we get in trouble," he cooed, "But I'll be back I promise," He smiled,

"Will you come visit again?"

"Of course I will, I will visit as soon as I can,"

"I'll miss you,"

"I'll miss you too," He cooed, "But soon we won't have to miss each other," he stroked my cheek, "When we get married," he connected our lips softly,

"I shall count the hours,"

"As will I," he cooed, "I love you endlessly my darling,"

"I love you too Jack,"

"Don't miss me too hard okay?"

"I'll try," I blushed, "Don't miss me too hard…"

"Impossible," he cooed,

We shared another sweet kiss before he went to my balcony, and climbed down the tree. I leaned over and blew him a kiss waving sweetly, "Love you,"

"Love you too," he happily blew me a kiss back before he headed back to the hospital.

I hurried myself down the creaky wooden stairs, the sound of my giggles echoing through the empty house. Skipping down the dimly lit halls, the morning sunlight streaming through the windows brought out the widest smile on my face. As I scurried inside the dining room, the aroma of sizzling bacon and freshly brewed coffee filled the air. There, at the end of the table, sat my father, his head resting on one hand, nursing his hangover from last night with a hearty breakfast.

"Hello, daddy!" I smiled as I ran over and gave him a hug so tight it almost knocked him off his chair, 

"Hello..." He raised an eyebrow at me a little, "You seem cheerful this morning," 

"I am cheerful," I giggled as I pulled back and went to the other end of the table but before I reached my seat Miss Hardcastle arrived so I took her hands and gave her a spin, "Good morning!" 

"...Morning Miss Everset," she said forcing me away, 

I giggled and took a seat in my chair waiting for breakfast resting my elbows on the table and kicking my feet, 

"Is she alright?" My father whispered,

Miss Hardcastle just shrugged like she didn't know, 

"You alright Y/n?" he asked very seriously, 

"I'm perfectly fine father. I'm just happy!" 

"Right," He nodded suspiciously as he ate breakfast,

Soon my own arrived so I hugged the maid and looked at my breakfast only to pout at the smaller portion than usual, but still I happily ate humming happily to myself, 

"Did she have a temperature or anything this morning?" My father whispered to Miss Hardcastle, 

"No sir." She answered, 

"Hum... she ate anything odd or new last night?"

I giggled trying to hold back my smile, well I certainly was swallowing something new last night, 

"Not that I know of sir," she answered,

"Humm..." He pondered, "Perhaps we need to send word and get the doctor to visit." 

"Yes!" I jumped up from my seat bouncing with excitement, "I need to see the doctor!"

"What do you think?" he asked Miss Hardcastle, 

"...perhaps having the doctor come visit might not be the best idea," Miss Hardcastle answered,

I tried to hide my disappointment slumping back into my chair,

"But. I think she does need a doctor, I'll take her to the hospital myself." 

"Yippie!" I giggled hitching my dress and bolting up to my room to get ready, "Let's go already!" I yelled, 

I sweetly hummed a tune as I slowly ran the brush through my long, flowing hair, carefully untangling any knots. My thoughts were filled with the upcoming visit to the hospital to see Jack. I wanted to look my best, so I chose my favourite soft, blue gown and delicately added a matching bow to my hair, creating a sweet and charming look. As I made my final adjustments, the sound of the door opening caught my attention. Miss Hardcastle entered the room, and I greeted her with a warm and friendly smile, eager to show kindness to the visitor.

"Good morning! Come to take me away?" I asked, "I must go and visit the hospital, for I am on death's door I need a doctor so desperately!" I fainted falling back dramatically onto my sofa,

"You need something," Miss Hardcastle glared, "Not sure it's a doctor,"

"Is it time to go?" I cooed,

"No…"

"No?"

"A carriage has arrived,"

"Perfect then we can go," I smiled bolting up from my sofa,

"No… it's not our carriage."

"…Then who's carriage is it?"

The two shared a look a conversation of a thousand words passing between them both within mere seconds,

"No."

"Yes."

"No…"

"Yes."

"…No…"

"Unfortunately, yes,"

"It can't be."

"It is."

"How-"

"You're father sent word,"

"About?"

"about your courtship… and I has arrived."

"Oh no…" I sighed, "May god have mercy on us all," I said,

"Shall I inform her you'll meet with her?"

"… Do I have a choice?"

"Not really."

"Then yes." I sighed,

Miss Hardcastle nodded in acknowledgement and slowly exited the room, her footsteps fading away in the distance.

I couldn't contain my frustration and let out a groan before throwing myself onto my bed. I buried my head into the pillow, the lingering scent of Jack's presence providing a small comfort in the midst of my exasperation. "Curses… Aunt Lisbeth."

I stood between my father and Miss Hardcastle, rage boiling inside my held back only by my bottom lip between my teeth. I looked to the road and pondered just bolting, abandoning it all and running to Jack at the hospital. But I knew it wouldn't be any use.

The carriage pulled into the front of the house stopping with a short jolt.

All held their breath as the door opened, and there she was.

Aunt Lisbeth was a remarkable sight to behold. She stood tall with an imposing figure, broad shoulders, and a long hooked nose that exuded an air of authority. Her lips were tightly pursed, giving the impression that she was in a perpetual state of disapproval. Her elegantly placed black curls, expertly dyed to conceal any signs of greying, were artfully arranged in a large black hat with a striking white ribbon.

Her attire was equally impressive. She wore a tightly laced corset that accentuated her already slender figure, creating the illusion that one could easily encircle her waist with a single hand. Her long black gown was a work of art, adorned with intricate pearls and delicate embroidery.

Aunt Lisbeth's choice of jewellery was equally exquisite. Every piece was crafted from mother of pearl, with large and impressive pearls set in silver. In one hand, she carried a black lace parasol adorned with pearls, which she used not only for shade but also as a stylish and practical walking stick, complete with a handle made of mother of pearl. In her other hand, she held a matching fan, secured around her wrist, with each blade featuring a grip of mother of pearl.

"Lisbeth," my's father smiled trying to pull her into a hug,

But with a flick of her wrist, she drew her fan across her face between them, "Do not touch me, Eric." She said not needing to bark or even raise her tone just her firmness enough, "Save us all from your scent and save my cleaners the work."

"Of course." He nodded,

"Delight me, with why I am the last to know of my niece's engagement." she closed her fan looking down her nose at him,

"She is not engaged, she is courting."

"Which I should hope still means the same thing." she replied, "One does not court not to engage. Courting is a formality. And at the age of your daughter it is a formality you cannot afford." She said, "Nevertheless. Why?" she almost whistled the W as she said it,

"You were sent about her debutant Ball,"

"I was indeed."

"The young man made himself known then, the rest has simply been pleasantries."

"Well then, reveal her. Or is she so frightened by the king's English that spills from my lips she hides below her piano once more?"

"I am here Aunt Lisbeth," I spoke up begrudgingly bringing herself closer,

"Ahh. I forgive me, I feared he'd married a maid." She snapped, "Let me look at you." She demanded,

I moved to the centre of her view and held my hands behind my back,

Lisbeth looked me up and down several times, making sure to be slow and meticulous about how she looked at me, "Hum…" She scoffed, "You are thinner than last I visited."

"Yes, Aunt Lisbeth,"

"…It is progress I suppose." she rolled her eyes, "The face is better. As it is the hair." she said, "Come we must take tea."

Without saying another word, Lisbeth, her eyes narrowed and her brow furrowed in determination, marched into the study. The room was dimly lit by the warm glow of the fire, casting dancing shadows on the walls. As she entered, the servants, dressed in their crisp uniforms, bowed and offered her every seat in the room, from the plush armchairs by the fire to the antique chairs by the window. Lisbeth, her gaze sweeping across the room, declined each one with a curt shake of her head.

Finally, she stopped in front of the first seat offered, a high-backed armchair positioned beside the crackling fire and overlooking the snow-covered garden outside. With a decisive nod, she settled into the chair, her eyes fixed on the flickering flames.

The staff, attentive and poised, approached her with a silver tray, adorned with delicate china teacups and a steaming teapot. "Would you care for some tea, madam?" the butler inquired, his voice as smooth as silk.

Lisbeth, her gaze still fixed on the fire, initially declined the offer with a polite wave of her hand. However, as the maid moved to serve the other guests, a sudden change came over her. With a sharp, commanding tone, she called out across the room, "I'll take tea. Now" The staff, accustomed to her swift changes in demeanour, quickly adjusted, pouring a steaming cup of tea and delivering it to her side. "So, Neice of mine."

"Yes, Aunt Lisbeth?" I asked doing my best not to slouch,

"This… gentlemen?"

"Yes, Aunt Lisbeth?"

"He comes with a name I assume?" she asked, "Most men do, many of them are utterly irrelevant not like they ever do much with them besides stamp it on everything they can like a puppy pissing on all it see's,"

"Yes, he has a name," I slightly blushed trying not to chuckle,

"Well? Am I to be graced with it or is it an ever-going mystery?"

"Doctor Jack Dawkins," I smiled proudly,

"Doctor?" she perked up suddenly more interested in the conversation beyond the mere plenties of it, "My, my."

"Doctor Dawkins is the surgeon at the Hospital."

"A surgeon. Now I do say that's an awful lot better than I expected." she sipped her tea, "I had fears you'd desire to run amok with a penniless panhandler, some brutish blacksmith or a horrid haberdasher boy." she explained,

"Didn't you marry a tailor?" My father spoke up,

"Do not be sharp with me Eric." She snapped back, "So? Tell me of the courtship?"

"Well, he and I first met after I had an accident in town. Bruised my hand fairly badly so my father took me to the hospital, and Doctor Dawkins treated me. We conversed socially a few times after that and we invited him to my ball. Luck we did, I ended up having a terrible bout of breathlessness and by the grace of god, he was there to aid me. He made his intentions very clear to Father and at a dinner sometime later he asked to enter our courtship." I explained, "We have followed of course all social rules and have been spending time in our courtship chaperoned by Miss Hardcastle." I smiled doing my best to hide my lies as I couldn't really admit everything else me and Jack had already done,

"Good, good." Lisbeth nodded, "He seems a proper gentleman."

I tried to hide my blush,

"it does bring me some peace for fiscal security." she said, "Tell me, how much shall you expect for the household once wed?"

"Ohh uh… Ja- Doctor Dawkins, doesn't make very much money." I admitted,

"Hum…" she scoffed, "I see. Well, I suppose it is a boundary of the industry, but once he is head surgeon of his hospital all will be well,"

"He isn't-"

"He will be. You will make him. It is a wife's duty to make her husband see reason and presume what is best for him. Regardless of his own selfish ambition." She explained, "He will make you a wife of a head surgeon or you will not make him a father of children it is a simple pact, he will do as told and see reason as all men do once deprived of the marital bliss between your legs."

I tried not to gasp,

"Y/n. I will not have my niece be penniless." She warned, "I would call off this courtship than allow you to wed some penniless surgeon doomed to fall into his bottle after each day of work."

"Yes Aunt Lisbeth," I nodded,

"Good. Now, Summon this surgeon I wish to inspect him for my niece."

"Well as it happened Y/n wasn't feeling well this morning, she and Miss Hardcastle were to take her to the hospital this afternoon." My father spoke up clearly trying to get Lisbeth away from him and the house for a while,

"Splendid. We shall go at once." Lisbeth demanded with a loud stomp of her parasol on the floor,

As I sat in the carriage, my mind raced with thoughts. I couldn’t shake the urgency of my situation. He needed a warning—no, more than a warning; he needed to be prepared for what lay ahead. The idea of her descending upon him, ready to tear him apart, sent a shiver down my spine.

If I hesitated any longer, it would be as if I were pushing him into turbulent waters, leaving him to flounder and fight his way back to safety on his own. The metaphor felt all too real, as if I might as well be tossing him into the ocean, hoping he could somehow swim to safety.

With my heart pounding in my chest, I found myself absentmindedly picking at my nail. The plush cushioning of the couch beneath me did little to ease my anxiety. It was time to gather my thoughts and muster all the courage I could find, for the weight of my decision felt monumental. I knew I had to speak up; it was now or never.

"Aunt Lisbeth?"

"Yes Y/n?"

"I was just thinking-"

"Do not share your thoughts dear." She said, "It cheapens you and bores me."

"Yes but, Well Ja- Doctor Dawkins, he may be in surgery when we arrive."

"Hum…" She scoffed, "That is true, and I do so hate waiting." she sneered, "Y/n, be a good girl and hop out the carriage we'll take a scenic ride around the town whilst you unsure his availability."

"Yes. of course Aunt Lisbeth."

"Good."

I nodded in acknowledgment, allowing a gentle smile to grace my lips as I bid her goodbye. As the carriage gradually came to a halt, I gracefully stepped out onto the cool, stone steps of the hospital, carefully smoothing out the fabric of my dress to erase any wrinkles.

Once the carriage was completely out of sight, awave of urgency washed over me. I hitched up the hem of my dress, my heart racing with anticipation, and dashed inside the hospital. The grand entrance opened up to a bustling corridor, but I was singularly focused on reaching the theatre. As I hurried down the hallway, I caught sight of a tall, slippery-looking man standing in the shadows of the operating theatre entrance,

"Women are not allowed in here madam." he snapped at me,

"Excuse me." I snapped back, "Where is Doctor Dawkins?"

"Why do you need to know?"

"Just tell me. Please."

"Doctor Dawkins is busy."

"I'm well aware. But where is he busy?"

"Who wants to know?"

"Ugh- His fiance?"

His tone immediately shifted and a smirk grew across his face, "So your Y/n?"

"Jack. Is. Where?" I glared,

"Down in the morgue, but that's no place for a lovely lady. You're more than welcome to stay up here far from the stains and smells Dawkin's so like's to linger in,"

"No thank you." I snapped back before hurrying down to the morgue as fast as I could.

Luckily he was indeed in the morgue, looming over a body with his leather apron around him, hands coated in blood, working away on a body.

Even given the situation I couldn't hold back a soft smile,

Jack absentmindedly glanced up and did a double take as he saw me standing in the doorway, "Darling!" he said with a bright smile, "What are you doing here?!" He asked his tone full of excitement as he cleaned off his hands quickly,

"I am sorry, I didn't want to just drop in and-" I began as I went over, but before I could even finish what I said he wrapped his arms around my waist and softly kissed my lips, Of course, I happily kissed back trailing my hands up his arms as we shared tender kisses,

"Humm, why wouldn't I be happy to see you?" he cooed,

"I am… really sorry Jack-" I began but once again he interrupted me,

"No need to be sorry darling, it's a lovely little surprise." he smiled, "the best actually. My lovely lady coming to visit me while I'm working." He peppered my face with little kisses as he spoke, "Should I get used to this? My Darling Y/n coming to visit me at work, for some cuddles and kisses, maybe you can start bringing me a nice homecooked lunch too."

"Hey!" I laughed,

"I would not complain if you did, I am really hungry I would actually be thrilled." He chuckled,

so I slightly glared,

"And cause I'd get to see my darling wife."

"Better." I chuckled,

"So? Why is my darling here to see me then? you're not hurt are you?!"

"No. no, I'm fine Jack."

"Good, you had me worried." He smiled pulling us a little closer together, "Have you just come because you missed me?"

"well of course I missed you-"

"Hummm not half as much as I've missed you," he smirked tugging us even closer and squeezing my body against his peppering kisses down my jaw and neck,

"Jack." I complained pushing him away and keeping him at arm's length, "Focus." I told him, "We have a problem. A big problem."

"Oh?" He asked, "I can think of 'A' big problem you might be coming to urgently visit me for." He nodded, "But I promise you darling, it is not possible for you to be pregnant" He reassured taking my hands softly and giving my knuckles kisses, "Well I mean… technically it's loosely possible but it would be impossible to know yet."

"…Jack that doesn't give the calming effect you think that it does." I told him, "But no something far worse." I said as I took my hands away and helped him out of his apron and cleaned him up as much as I could,

"Whoa! Hello darling!" He smirked getting excited, "You want my clothes off so badly you only have to ask me."

"Will you stop thinking about your dick for five minutes?" I chuckled,

"…we're courting." He scoffed, "We both know I can't."

"We have a very very big problem. and I am… so so so sorry for what's going to happen." I told him,

"Y/n? What's going on?"

I sighed and took his hands tightly giving his lips a tender kiss, "It's time you meet aunt Lisbeth."

"…Who's aunt Lisbeth?"

[lowtaperfeyd]

Hi there!! I’m so excited to see that you have Dune requests open! 😊

Could I make a request for Gurney x fem!reader? I was thinking something angsty with her being either an Atreides or a member of the bene gesserit who is close to Jessica, and she’s forced into marriage with another. (probably more angst for Gurney if it’s to Feyd or another Harkonnen) angst to fluff or just angst, up to you!

Many thanks If you accept this! 😊

Sinking Ship, Abandon Ship

Gurney Halleck x Atreides!reader

author's note: I really hope you enjoy this one, because writing it was incredibly fun and entertaining!

(not beta read, we die like feyd-rautha)

warnings: mentions of death, a lot of angst, duke leto being an awful brother, house harkonnen.

wc: 978

The romance between Gurney Halleck and the Duke’s sister, (Y/N), developed slowly over time. The two who have been around each for decades, since before politics really mattered.

“You wanted to see me brother?” Questioned (Y/N) as she walked into Leto’s office on Caladan. 

“Yes I did (Y/N), take a seat.” He said anxiously, like he didn’t know what to say or expect.

“Is there something going on? You made this seem quite serious. You’re even pacing now.” She said, worried about her older brother, “this isn’t going to affect us going to Arrakis, right?”

“This isn’t going to affect us going to Arrakis.” Leto said slowly.

“Well that's a good thing, isn’t it? We leave in a few weeks and stay there to collect spice and try to converse with the Fremen.” 

The Duke interrupted her, “(Y/N) it affects you going.”

“Well tell me what's going on!” The sister retorted to her brother, annoyed that he wasn’t telling her things. 

“In order for us to have a certain amount of ‘safety’ on Arrakis, I have decided it is best if you marry the Baron’s eldest nephew. In order for this to happen, you need to leave tomorrow.” 

“Oh.” she whispered as a pinching feeling settled deep into her chest. 

“Oh!” he said, upset, “That's all you're going to say!”

“I mean what else is there to say!” She said as the tears began to fall down her face, “I’m leaving my family! my home!” The person I love! She thought afterwards. 

“I had no choice (Y/N)! It was this or the fact that Harkonnens may try to kill us on Arrakis!” He shouted

“So you’re going to have me die at the hands of them!” She yelled back at him, “I’m just a sacrifice for you!” 

“You’re not a sacrifice!”

“You’re right!” she hysterically shouted back, “I’m a lamb to the slaughter! A sacrifice would have more honor!” 

“(Y/N) listen to me!” Leto shouted to her. But it was too late, she had turned her back and started walking away. 

“Fuck off, Leto!”

(Y/N) began to walk the expansive halls of Castle Caladan. Walking past the paintings of her ancestors who once ruled the same planet she is leaving. The ancestors who had their own problems when they were alive. But those problems were solved by means of negotiation, not marrying off their younger sister. She continued to aimlessly plod around with tears running down her face. But, any guards who passed her didn’t say anything to her. Instead they went straight to Gurney Halleck.  

After about half an hour of wandering, (Y/N) was leaning against the balcony railing; that gave a spectacular view of the setting sun and its light that reflected off the dazzling ocean waves. The tears in her eyes had subsided and were now replaced with untimed sniffles. She thought about the days that were easier. How she would frolic with her brother when they were younger, along the rolling hills. Her and Gurney’s late night walks when they couldn’t sleep from plagues infecting their dreams. The walks which ended with small, sweet kisses and long hugs goodbye, before they returned to their own quarters. 

“The guards told me you were crying.” Gurney deadpanned, “if I am correct you just had a meeting with the Duke, is everything alright?” 

He began walking to where (Y/N) was standing near the railing. 

“Everything is fine, for everyone else,” said with a sad chuckle, “but for us, it’s a boat that's sinking and we can’t repair the hole.” 

He placed a hand on her back, “Why, what’s going on?” he said, concerned. 

“The Duke is sending me off to marry a count.” (Y/N) muttered.

“Which count?” Gurney said, trying to figure out a way to mend the situation. Thinking that if it was one he knew, he could make a compromise. 

“Count Glossu Rabban, of House Harkonnen.”

Gurney’s vision turned red. He could not believe the duke, the man who knew that the Harkonnens do not like the Atreides, would marry off his sister to a husband who would be cruel. 

“Why!” He said, before calming down so as to not yell at her, “Why is he doing this?” 

“Something to do with the safety of everyone else on Arrakis, I’m a form of collateral.” 

“So he's shipping you off to Harkonnen bastards!” He asserted, “Men who would kill you if you stepped out of line.” 

“I didn’t have a choice, Gurney…” She disclosed as more tears started to roll down her cheeks.

“Well I have something to say, (Y/N), I’m not letting them take you away from me.” He said with venom in his voice. Before shifting to a softer tone, “I’m not letting them take anything else from me…” 

“There’s nothing you can do, my dear.” (Y/N) commented, finally realizing what was going to happen to her. 

“Then, when do you leave?” Gurney responded as he turned around.

“Tomorrow morning.”

“Then I still have a night with you, we still have a couple of hours.” Gurney proposed, “You’re not gone yet.”

“No, I’m not.”

The final hours Gurney and (Y/N) had very little talking. Moving into her bedroom to cry more and reminisce about what they had. How they had taken their freedom for granted. 

“Years ago, If you asked me to marry you, then we wouldn’t be here right.” (Y/N) whispered as she laid on her bed with her head on Gurney’s chest. 

“Years ago, if I knew you wanted to get married, I would’ve bought a ring.” Gurney added. 

That would be the last thing they said to each other before (Y/N) had to leave. Both of them too hurt by the Duke’s actions to say anything else. And a mutual feeling of betrayal by him too.

[nerdieforpedro]

Empanadas and Chocolate

Part One of Foul Play Series

Javier Peña x Aria Davis (plus size female OC)

My entire masterlist and blog are for readers 18+ MDNI. I do not consent to my work being used in AI, recommended on TikTok, borrowed or plagiarized.

Summary: The meet cute between Javier Peña and Aria. The beginning of everything.

Warnings: Meet cute, adorable vibes, food, curioisity, (we’re safe this part - we had to start somewhere)

Word Count: a little over 1.8k

Notes: My smut fairy was gone for a very long time. Thanks to @magpiepills and a fic called "Aquarius" that she wrote that was all the right kinds of smutty filth, she inspired me to write this. It's from an old WIP I had started but never finished. Now it is in a completely different direction and one I like. She also beta read some (not the whole thing - gotta surprise her 😘). So here we are. Originally posted on A03.

Main Masterlist/ Javier Peña Masterlist

Together is what he told you. That you’d go on this journey together and help bring peace to an unsettled country. It’s been eight months and neither the government nor the American agencies involved in trying to take down Pablo Escobar were any closer to ending his reign. What did any of that mean for Aria?

Not much, just looking over the balcony of her small one bedroom apartment provided by the US embassy. Her fiance and her had decided on living separately since they were each entitled to their own places. It seemed like a weird idea at first, but the longer she stayed here, the more sense it made. She wouldn't have to hear him coming and going or worry when he would be home. He rarely was, only to have some mediocre sex, maybe sleep sometimes and leave again citing that he was needed back on the case. Aria sometimes was able to finish on her own, but increasingly she couldn’t even do that, getting tired in the middle of things and giving up to read a book, listen to some music and just sleep. Sleep was what she did best.

It was early yet and the sun was just cresting over the horizon, painting a golden pink across the sky, it was barely six in the morning. One positive for coming here, despite all the violence was the scenery, it was beautiful and so were the people, well those she had met. That was two. She sighed and entered her apartment readying herself for work and headed off to the embassy where she worked as an accountant along with four others in a small office. It was cramped but she got to know them well, all nice, sometimes a little too chatty. Her days were similar, rise, go to work, come home, sometimes see her fiance, fuck, sleep, repeat.

It was on a rare day off during the week where she decided to venture to her favorite little shop down the street. Here she didn’t wear the knee length shirt of buttoned up shirt that fit a little too tight, she could wear a flowing dress with sunflowers on it. It was a gift from an older woman a few doors down. She also often gave her rice, meat, vegetables and other foods, hence why her work clothes didn’t fit as well as they once did. Her build was stocky and dense from head to toe though she did have breasts that stuck out a bit farther than her belly and wide hips so that helped, but in her work clothes she was still self-conscious, she knew it hugged in all of the places good and bad. It was always a button down shirt and skirt. She could get away with a polo shirt or sweater depending on who was in the office but more often than not if their supervisor came in and they weren’t dressed appropriately it was a warning then could progress to a write up. So stupid.

Arriving at the shop, she spied her prizes, empanadas and chocolate cake. She went to order as another person placed theirs, a tall man whose skin had been kissed by the sun, wore dark aviator sunglasses, and had a thick head of hair with a mustache to match. He stood with his hands on his slim hips, a rose pink shirt on with medium wash jeans and what was likely a gun along his back. He was cracking a joke with the señora who ran the shop with her husband. The señora asked for her order again as she had lost her train of thought while looking him up and down.

Unfortunately, it turned out that the handsome stranger had taken the last piece of chocolate cake. Aria pouted but little could be done, she hoped he at least enjoyed it, maybe it was a reward to himself for something that happened that day or week? She just hoped he wasn’t the type to eat a few bites and dispose of it. Taking the three empanadas she ordered, she turned to leave as the señora pointed to her and said her name. Apparently, handsome sunglasses wanted to add empanadas to his order but didn’t tell señora when he got the cake. The accountant had the last of them. He walked over with a smile,

“Disculpe señorita (excuse me miss), could I buy one of the empanadas from you? I just need one.” He asked, almost pleading, how much did he need one? Aria raised a counter offer,

“If you’ll spit half of the cake with me, I’ll give you the empanada at no charge.” She raised a finger. He nodded and waved his hand toward one of the small tables with chairs outside where they could do the exchange. He pulled out her chair for her and Aria thanked him, he said there was no thanks needed, he should be thanking her. He’d been looking forward to the empanadas all week, the señora here makes the best ones. To that, she agreed and pulled out the bag with the rolled and fried goods. Señor brought them plates, some water and napkins, insisting that they eat here. Aria shook her head but aviators nodded and assured her he was alright with it as long as she was, that he would make for good company.

“Alright, let’s exchange and eat. Here.” She took one of the empanadas and placed it on the plate in front of pink shirt. He cut his chocolate cake in half and placed it on her plate.

“Here you go. We’re even.” He chuckled, quickly picking up his newly earned empanada and moaning as he took a bite. “Been thinking about these all day…” His eyes were closed as he chewed slowly, savoring the flavor of the onions, chicken, potatoes and peppers. Aria nodded as she watched his mouth, he smacked his lips before taking another bite and another moan left him. It wasn’t long before she wondered if she should be watching this, it felt like she was intruding on a private moment. She picked up water and downed a few gulps before biting into her own empanada, humming with the flavor.

“Mierda eso esta bien (Shit that’s good).”

Pink shirt had momentarily forgotten that he was sitting in public, with a woman no less. He cleared his throat and drank some sips of his water before muttering sorry to his table mate. She shook her head and told him that the lovely couple who owned the shop would be delighted to know he enjoyed the food that much, plus it was fun to watch him eat. Shaking his head, he asked her how long she had been coming to the little shop and in Columbia in general. Her accent sounded similar to his partner’s - American. She told him eight months in Columbia and six for the shop. It took her a few months to get acclimated at work and to the slower pace. She appeared to indicate that she was enjoying herself but there was a large part he knew she was leaving out: the ring on her left fourth finger. There could be a few reasons she could be leaving out that detail, none of them were good for him. She was definitely easy on the eyes, well scratch that. He found her gorgeous, her smile and laugh and the fair trade was definitely a bonus. He would at least let her know his name before they parted. The city of Bogotá seemed larger than it really was. He learned that she did accounting at the Embassy, he told her that he was with the police - didn’t think she really needed to know he was an agent.

“My name’s Javier, Javier Peña. What’s your’s Mrs?” He finally asked as the stood and disposed of their trash. Her warm smile faded with the question. Did that mean she really was married? Peña wasn’t really up for all the drama that came with that even if she did have hips he wanted to see from the back, a very different angle than he was looking at them now.

“No, no. I’m engaged. It’s…I’m engaged. “ Her nod told him she needed to be convinced she was in fact engaged. Usually engaged couples are supposed to be happy. Not that he wasn’t familiar with how that could burn horribly. It wasn’t his business, though he wondered. “My name is Aria Davis. It’s nice to meet you Javier. Thanks for the cake.” Her smile remained warm, he may see her around at the embassy though he didn’t recall ever meeting her before.

“I see. Well congratulations hermosa (beautiful). He’s a lucky man. Gracias for the empanadas. The señor here makes some of the best ones in Bogotá. I may see you if you come again, I’ll try not to take all the cake this time. I usually don’t eat sweets.” Peña explained, it was true he did not. He’s had another failed raid with no new information found and it would be a day that he forgot to get a new carton of cigarettes. He was on his way to go buy some when he noticed he was passing by señora Hernandez’s tienda (store) so he figured he’d stop in and get the food on the way. He hadn’t eaten all day, plus he’d been meaning to come all week. “Today didn’t go so well so I figured I’d get something on my way.” He paused. Did she walk here?

“Do you need a ride home, Aria?” He tilted his head in the direction of his car to which Aria shook her head.

“Oh no I live close by. Thank you though. I’m going home after this. Just going to relax a bit before work tomorrow.” Aria’s smile didn’t falter and Javier was curious, shouldn’t she be mentioning spending time with her fiancée? He reached into his back pocket and pulled out a bent card. He handed it to her and she took it reading it over, her eyes revealed her surprise but she didn’t mention that she’d heard of him. Aria assumed he didn’t want to talk about it.

“Here’s my card just in case. Bogotá is beautiful but can be dangerous. Call me if you need help okay?” The nod and grin that followed made her giggle. “I’ll come running and may speed a bit.” Javier cracked a small joke, it was a bad though but she didn’t seem to mind.

“I’ll remember that Javier. I do pretty well at staying out of trouble though.”

“Trouble has a way of finding people Aria.” Peña took a step closer and spoke in her ear. “Call me Javi. Stay safe hermosa.” With that he turned and walked to his car, getting in and waving to her before putting one hand on the steering wheel and driving off.

Aria was left standing with Javier’s lingering words and his breath on her ear. The food in her belly wasn’t the only thing heating it from within. Peña wasn’t wrong. Trouble had found her.

Part Two

Dipping their empanadas in chocolate for Javi to lick off 🍫: @syd-djarin @megamindsecretlair @soft-persephone @angelofsmalldeath-codeine @guelyury

@yorksgirl @indiegirlunited @readingiskeepingmegoing @fhatbhabiee @javierpena-inatacvest

[edgarapoecolouredglasses]

Little mastermind part two

THE GIF IS NOT MINE

Pairing: Troy Otto/Reader

Summary: Y/n and Troy work together to help Tracy through an asthma attack. After, they have a heart to heart

Part: 2/4? (It will probably be more)

Part one Masterlist

———————————————————————

Troy clasped Jeffrey’s hand in a firm handshake, offering him a smile that seemed all too genuine. “I wish you the best of luck,” he said, his voice steady.

I sat outside the office, waiting for Jeffrey to leave. When he finally walked out, I gave it a few minutes. Through the window, I watched Troy go about his business, calm and collected. His behavior appeared completely ordinary. He moved around the room, checking drawers for anything useful. After finding a handgun, he casually placed it on the desk before sinking into a chair with a sigh.

I decided I’d waited long enough and stepped into the study.

Troy looked up and exhaled heavily. “Did you see Diane?”

I took a seat and sighed. “They’re probably gone by now.”

He fell silent, and I watched him closely. Despite his composed exterior, there were subtle signs of his internal struggle. A horizontal crease had appeared between his eyebrows, a telltale sign of his stress that only emerged during times of significant pressure. His jaw was set tightly, and his gaze occasionally drifted to the desk, where the handgun lay, as if seeking solace in its presence.

Troy’s competence as a leader had always been evident. Under his watch, no one had ever been bitten. He ensured that no one was forced into dangerous runs and took every measure to keep us safe. His faith in leading us to safety would waver every time something like this happened. If he lost belief in himself, how could anyone else keep faith? The people that left had clearly underestimated the stability and security he provided.

Just as I was about to voice my thoughts, Troy interrupted with a click of his tongue. “Well, there’s much to do. Has everyone found a place to sleep? I want no one in the main hall. It’s safer if we keep the first floor empty.”

I nodded. “Yes, Denzel and Peter reported that the sleeping arrangements are all set.”

“Good,” he said, his expression lighting up unexpectedly. “There’s someone I’d like you to meet,” he added with a note of enthusiasm that seemed to momentarily lift the burden from his shoulders.

I raised my eyebrows in curiosity. Before he could open the door to walk me to this new person, the only other nurse left, Debra, barged into the room, her face flushed with urgency.

“Y/n, come quickly to the med bay! It’s Tracy, she—”

Before the nurse could finish, Troy and I were already pushing past her, sprinting toward the med bay upon hearing Tracy’s name.

As we arrived, the distressing sound of Tracy’s labored breathing filled the room. Troy was already at her side, his expression a mix of fear and determination. I quickly asked the other nurse to open the balcony door.

“Troy. Troy!” I called out, trying to get his attention. “She’s panicking. You need to take her to the balcony.”

Up until that moment, Troy had been as frantic as the rest of us, but he knew he needed to stay calm for Tracy. He managed to maintain his composure enough to gently but firmly guide her toward the balcony, despite her desperate attempts to push him away.

Once we reached the balcony, I instructed Troy to grab a chair from inside. While he went to get it, I knelt down in front of Tracy. Her face was streaked with tears, and she struggled to draw breath. Her tiny frame trembled as she fought for air, her cries piercing the tense silence of the med bay.

“Tracy, please look at me,” I urged gently. “I need you to focus on me. Come on, I believe in you. You can do this.”

I began to breathe rapidly to match her, then gradually slowed my breathing with each exhale. “In, out, in, out. That’s it, very good. In, out, you’re doing amazing. In, out, we’re going to slow down just a bit now. It might feel like you’re not getting enough air and that you need to start hyperventilating again. Just hold on and don’t give in to that feeling. Alright? In, out, in, out.”

Troy returned with the chair and carefully helped Tracy onto it.

“What happened?” he asked, his voice edged with concern.

“It’s all the signs of an asthma attack,” I replied, turning back to Tracy. “How are you feeling now, sweetheart? Are your lungs feeling any better?”

Tracy nodded, a small smile beginning to form.

“Just focus on catching your breath, okay? Try to stay on the balcony for a bit. I’m going outside to talk with your dad for a fart, alright?” I added with a playful tone, causing her to chuckle at my choice of words even though she was still catching her breath.

“Okay,” Tracy replied, her voice still strained.

“If you need anything at all, just ask Nurse Debra,” I said before signaling Troy that I needed to talk.

He opened the door for me and followed me outside.

Troy stared at me, maintaining a calm demeanor that contrasted with my growing anxiety. “How did she develop asthma all of a sudden?”

I rubbed my temples, searching for an explanation. “I—” I paused, considering possible triggers. “It could be anything: pollution, though I doubt it; allergies; dust mites; pollen; or even an infection. Without tests, there’s no way to pinpoint the cause.”

Troy sank into a nearby chair, looking defeated. “So there’s nothing we can do?”

I took a moment to collect my thoughts, knowing the gravity of what this could mean. It wouldn’t have worried him so if, last year, a member of the group hadn’t died from an unmedicated asthma attack. He was 76 years old, but it still worried Troy.

“We can prevent another attack. I’ll keep her here for the night and monitor her closely,” I said, forcing a reassuring smile. “I’m sure I’ll figure out what triggered the attack. We’ll find a way to manage it.”

Troy straightened his back, running a hand through his hair. After a beat of silence, he looked up at me with a hint of concern in his eyes. “Have you had dinner yet?

I hesitated for a moment, knowing the answer. “No… I haven’t.” I let out a small sigh, realizing just how drained I was.

Troy stood, his expression softening. “You should eat something. I’ll stay with Tracy while you do. She needs someone with her.”

I looked over my shoulder at the med bay door, Tracy’s fragile breathing still fresh in my mind. The thought of leaving her, even for a short time, gnawed at me, but I knew Troy was right. I needed to keep my strength up, for Tracy, for the rest of the group—and for Troy himself.

I left the building, feeling the cool evening air on my face as I made my way to where the kitchen volunteers cooked on old electronic stoves. Instead of grabbing a meal for just myself, I picked up enough for three. I knew neither Troy nor Tracy had eaten either, and sitting together would be better than eating in solitude.

When I returned, Troy was still in the same chair beside Tracy, who had calmed down a little, her breathing more even now. Her eyes fluttered shut, though I could tell she wasn’t fully asleep.

“I brought dinner,” I said softly as I entered the room, holding up the small bundle of food. “For all three of us.”

Troy raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised. “You didn’t have to do that.”

“I know,” I replied with a gentle smile. “But I didn’t want to eat alone. Besides, you’re just as exhausted as I am, and Tracy needs to keep her strength up too.”

He glanced over at his daughter, then back at me, a hint of gratitude in his eyes. “Thank you,” he murmured, taking the food from my hands.

I set down the rest of the food and sat on the floor beside them. Tracy stirred slightly but didn’t wake. For a few minutes, there was silence, just the soft sound of our quiet movements as we began to eat. The tension in the room had lessened, but I could still feel the weight of what had happened hanging in the air between us.

After a while, Troy spoke, his voice low. “You’ve done so much for her. For all of us. I don’t know how you keep going.”

I looked down at my food, choosing my words carefully. “I keep going because I have to. You do the same thing, Troy. You don’t stop. Not for a second.”

He didn’t respond right away, but his expression softened. “We’re lucky to have you. Tracy’s lucky.”

“We’re lucky to have each other,” I said quietly, glancing at Tracy. “Now eat before it gets cold.”

He sighed, running a hand through his hair again. “You’ve been doing four people’s jobs, maybe more. You manage the daycare for the little ones, you teach the older kids reading and writing—hell, you’ve even started training them in basic medical care. And on top of that, you run the med bay and you’re practically always there when I need you. You’re doing everything.”

I opened my mouth to brush it off, to say it was just what needed to be done, but he stopped me with a look.

“No. Don’t brush it off,” he said, his tone more firm. “I see everything you do, and I know how much of the load you’re carrying. I know you’re tired, even if you won’t say it.”

I let out a long breath, leaning back against the wall. He wasn’t wrong. I was tired—exhausted, really. But I did it because it needed to be done. Without me, things would fall apart.

“I do it because I believe it’ll pay off,” I said after a moment, my voice softer now. “I believe in what we’re doing, Troy. I believe that you’ll get us to a safe home, where we won’t have to live like this anymore.”

Troy’s eyes softened at my words, but there was something else in his expression too—guilt, maybe. He looked away for a second, and then he seemed to remember something, straightening up slightly.

“That reminds me,” he said, setting his plate aside completely. “I was going to introduce you to someone.”

“Right.”

“Yeah,” he nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “During the last supply run, we found some survivors. One of them was an elementary school teacher. She said she taught for years before everything… you know, before all this.” He gestured around, as if to encompass the entire broken world we were living in.

My eyes widened slightly. “A teacher?”

He nodded again. “She’s willing to help. It’ll take some weight off your shoulders, especially with the kids.

For a moment, I just stared at him, processing what he’d said. The idea of someone else stepping in, someone who actually knew how to teach, felt almost unreal. It was like a huge knot of tension in my chest slowly started to loosen.

“I… I don’t know what to say,” I admitted, feeling a rush of relief that I hadn’t expected. “That’s… that’s incredible.

Troy smiled a little more fully now. “I figured you’d be happy to hear it. You’ve been doing everything yourself for so long. It’s time you had some help.”

I exhaled, letting my head rest against the wall behind me, the weight of my exhaustion crashing into me as I realized just how much I’d been carrying.

“Thank you,” I whispered, feeling the tiniest bit of hope rise up again. “Really, thank you. That’s going to help so much.”

Troy stood up, walking over to the window and looking out into the night. “You don’t have to thank me. You’ve been holding this group together as much as I have. I should’ve found help for you sooner.”

“No,” I said, shaking my head. “You’ve done more than enough. I just… I believe in you, Troy. You’re going to get us to that safe place. I know it.”

He turned to look at me, and for the first time in what felt like forever, I saw something in his eyes—something like faith, something like determination. He nodded, his jaw set.

“We’ll get there,” he promised. “We’ll get everyone to safety.”

Peter walked in just as Troy finished speaking, giving him a small nod. “Troy, we need you,” he said, his voice tense but calm.

Troy glanced at me, his expression slipping back into leader mode, the weariness of the moment hidden behind the mask he wore so well. He straightened up, giving me a small, knowing smile before he turned to leave.

I quickly stopped him, grabbing the small dessert the kitchen crew had made earlier. “Here,” I said, holding it out to him. “Don’t forget to take care of yourself, too.”

Troy looked down at the dessert in surprise, a faint smile tugging at his lips. “Thanks,” he murmured, taking it from my hand.

I smiled back, watching him go as he followed Peter out. Once they were gone, I let out a long breath and turned to head back to the med bay. Tracy needed to be checked on, and I wanted to make sure her breathing hadn’t worsened while I’d been away.

——————————————

@aldenenjoyer

[beezusvreeland]

now that we don't talk - chapter 5

summary: After being rejected by Poe, the two of you are assigned a mission together. And a lot can happen during a mission.

ship: poe dameron x f!reader

note: I had so much fun writing this chapter and creating some original characters. I hope you enjoy them too!

______________________________________________________________

As much as he hated the First Order, Poe had to admit they knew how to throw a hell of a party. When you walked in, it was hard to pretend to be unaffected by the opulence that made the inside of the mansion look like a palace. The deep red tapestry contrasted with the black and white First Order symbol displayed in huge posters that started on the second floor balcony and ended just short of touching the ground floor. 

Stormtroopers were positioned in various spots across the room. You and Poe keep a serious expression as you walk down the stairs, your arm attached to his. Two excited, well dressed Twi’leks greeted the two of you. They wore very colorful and well tailored suits, one in pink and the other in lilac, and grabbed your hand immediately. The gesture got Poe on his commander mode: quickly, his right hand grabbed your arm, pulling you back to him, while the left hand went to the blaster he hid on the insides of his cape.

“My dear, you look radiant, what a wonderful dress!”, pink suit said, analyzing your figure. His eyes stopped at Poe’s hand on your arm. The Twi’lek looked at the pilot with a mischievous smile. “Well well, you brought an equally beautiful specimen with you.”

You immediately put your hand on top of Poe’. He knew that was your code for don’t do anything stupid, let me take it from here, still, he was furious with pink suit’s insolence.

Lilac suit must have noticed Poe’s expression as well, coming to the rescue and approaching you with subtlety. 

“I’m Jib and this is my husband Boq, welcome to our house!”, he gestured to the wide room behind him. “We’re so excited to make new acquaintances. My apologies if Boq here was overly enthusiastic, we saw you from afar and were mesmerized by your beautiful dress”, Jib gave you an apologetical look.

“Thank you for having us”, you gave them your hand, which they promptly kissed. “I’m Yasmin and this handsome grumpy overprotective man here is my husband, Kal.” 

Poe shook hands with the other couple, giving them a nod, feeling grateful for your quick thinking. He still couldn’t shake that bad feeling that had been following him all this way. Normally, he would be the charmer, but at that point, he just didn’t have it in him. At least the taciturn energy he was displaying aligned with the character you had just invented to explain his behavior. 

“You look fabulous too. I’m glad I’m not the only one wearing some color at this party”, you gave the Twi’leks a knowing look. They laughed loudly, completely taken by you. And to think Poe was the only charming pilot of the bunch. He made a mental note to praise you for it later. Being extroverted wasn’t in your nature, just as being quiet and mysterious wasn’t his.

Poe, however, didn’t understand why you were spending so much time on the hosts, when the mission was very clear on finding the general and leaving as fast as you could. 

“Don’t even get us started! So many boring looks today”, Boq commented, rolling his eyes. “The three of us are definitely standing out.”

…which was less than ideal for an undercover mission like the one you were in. Poe was officially worried. 

But you were so confident, it was obvious you had some sort of plan. He would just have to go with it.

A few drinks later, Jib and Boq had told you a lot of interesting information. They were merchants, had business on several planets and didn’t exactly align with any side of the war, choosing to stay out of conflicts as much as they could. Except for the one time the First Order held some of their cargo back in one of the planets they conquered — Jib and Boq made a deal with one of the generals, owing him a favor. That’s how they ended up opening their house to host the party.

“It could’ve been a lot worse”, you said in a concerned tone. “You were lucky the general had some compassion…”

“Right? That’s so rare nowadays”, Boq said, visibly affected by the alcohol. 

“Do you remember his name?”

Jib and Boq looked at each other. Before they could think the weird question through, Poe stepped in:

“As a businessman myself, it’s always good to know who to reach out to when a situation like that happens.”

It was the first time Poe talked since the beginning of the conversation, and Jib and Boq looked delighted with this new development. 

“It’s good indeed. As traders, we must keep a good contact list”, Boq looked around the room. “Not only do we remember the general in question, but he is in attendance tonight.”

“Oh, there he is, his name is…”, Jib pointed to the back of a man dressed as every other First Order officer in the room. Except, he had striking red hair.

“...Armitage Hux.”

Poe tried to catch your attention, so the two of you could leave the hosts and follow the general. But he couldn’t quite read your expression. You didn’t seem surprised or satisfied with the new information. It was almost like you just had something really sour to eat.

“Is everything okay?”, Poe whispered in your ear, taking advantage of the fact that the Twi’leks got distracted by other guests.”

“Remember how I told you some people I knew chose to serve the First Order?, you whispered back.

Poe nodded.

“Armitage Hux is one of them…In fact, he was a close friend of mine.”

“The carrot head? Really?

“Yes”, you set your eyes on Hux. Grabbing Poe’s hand, you started leading the way through the crowd. 

“Are we just going straight up to him?”

You dodged a few guests and stopped by the bar. 

“Like, hey, we know about the notebook, now give it to us.”

Ignoring Poe, you ordered two drinks to the droid bartender. Besides the stormtroopers, all the workers there were droids, Poe noticed. It looked like you had just realized the same, as he followed your gaze, which was focused on a band of droids who played classical Imperial music on a small stage. Of course Poe had been feeling horrible that whole time, the soundtrack was terrible, with chords shrieking off beat, setting an unsettling tone to the whole spectacle. 

“We aren’t going straight to him, we’re going to stop near him for a little bit, just enough for him to recognize me”, you smelled your drink before taking a sip. 

“Absolutely not, delete it, that’s a terrible idea”, Poe was agitated again. 

“No, it’s not”, you answered, putting a fake smile on your face and pretending to fix Poe’s collar as a stormtrooper walked next to you.

“Yes, it is”, he imitates you, while keeping his pose. “I’m not going to let you present yourself to him on a silver platter. That’s extremely dangerous.”

“Trust me, an old ewok is more dangerous than Armitage Hux. I know what I’m doing.”

“Do you though? You haven’t seen this guy in decades. A lot could have changed since then.”

“Please, please, trust me on this? I have an idea that will let us grab the notebook and leave this place in the next hour.”

Poe scratches his beard, trying to maintain his composure. If you weren’t undercover, the discussion would have evolved to you reprimanding him and him walking away. But he was cornered there, without many movements available to him. And Poe was well aware you knew and was taking advantage of that.

“If there is even the slight possibility of you getting hurt, I’ll intervene and we’ll do it my way. Understood?”, the seriousness in him wasn't just for the pretense of “Kal” anymore. 

“Let’s do this”, you answered with a sparkle in your eyes. It reminded Poe of the thrill of finally being able to fly again after being in the med bay for weeks after an injury. Heart soaring and soul shining bright after finding purpose.

______________________________________________________________

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all chapters

______________________________________________________________

tags 💖

@wreckmyimage @steven-grants-world @lizispunkk @torntaltos @nervousmumbling

[themultifandomgal]

From 2010- Break Up Season Wiki

Break Up Season is the first solo studio album by former One Direction singer and songwriter YN YLN, released on 20th June 2016 by Columbia Records. The album was largely written and recorded during 2015 in between One Directions final tour with the help of her bandmates.

Listen to Break Up Season here

Alive and Unwell

My Everything/Ghosting

Break Up Season

Break Your Heart Right Back

True Story

Everytime

Better Off

Left With A Broken Heart

In My Head

Just A Little Bit Of Your Heart

Slayer

Bye

Infrared

Break Up

The album debuted at number ten on the UK Albums Chart, for 2 weeks. It was supported by the singles ‘Left With A Broken Heart’, ‘Alive and Unwell’ ‘My Everything/Ghosting’ and the title track ‘Break Up Season’.

The album is notably more mature than the songs she sang with One Direction as she stated in an interview with James Corden “I knew I had to grow with the fans. I’m older now, in my 20s and I wanted it to capture my true emotions during different points in my life with past relationships”

Many fans speculate that the songs ‘Better Off’ ‘Everytime’ ‘Break Up Season’ ‘In My Head’ and ‘Slayer’ are about ex boyfriend Liam Hemsworth who YN dated on and off between 2013 and 2015. They believe the lyrics “Romeo is a pathological narcissist, so send my love to Juliet” in ‘Break Up Season’ is referring to an Instagram post the singer posted in 2014 stating “is this how Juliet felt when Romeo turned up at her balcony?”

Many speculate that ‘True Story’ is actually about the tabloids and how she is portrayed most of the time.

Background and composition

In an interview with Apple Music, YLN explained how she came to write the album stating “I actually started writing some of the songs back in 2014. I was going through a rough time and my friend Emma told me to write down my feelings and make them into songs. I never thought they would ever see the light of day but with the help from my old band mates Harry, Liam, Niall and Louis they came to be. It wasn’t until 2015 I started to actually created the album”

The album was largely written and recorded during 2015 and 2016. ‘My Everything/Ghostin’ and ‘Break Your Heart Right Back’ however, we’re written back in 2014. ‘Just A Little Bit Of Your Heart’ was written by YLN’s ex bandmate Harry Styles, but he gave it to YLN to put on her album.

Speaking to Zach Sang, YLN said of the tracks "They started off as random sentences in my notebook. I never planned on making them into actual songs but then Harry got hold of my note book and within a few weeks on tour we had wrote the two songs. Niall helped come up with the melody and Louis recorded it on his phone. Liam was just the hype man. I kind of forgot about the songs until it came to writing the album. I wrote ghosting in a day. It was a bad day with an ex and it just all came out. It wasn’t supposed to go on the album, I never finished it, but Harry was a huge help and he was the one who suggested to put them both on the album. I trust him and his instincts”.

Writing credits on the album are not only YLN’s ex bandmates, Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Liam Payne, but YN’s long term friend Emma Thomas has also been credited. In an interview with Zach Sang YLN said she went through stages during the writing process “I went through stages during the writing process for the album. I was angry. Angry at the men in my life who have hurt me. I was angry at myself for letting them, but then came the heartache, the questioning myself, like how could I have let the same thing happen over and over again. This album is a true break up album that goes through the emotions of wanting to leave that person, but being in your head and wanting to make it work”

Release, promotion and singles

YLN announced the release of her first solo studio album as Break Up Season on 4th April 2016, unveiling the artwork on Instagram and Twitter captioning it “Its here! After a year of working on this album, many nights of tears, rage and reliving my past my first baby will be arriving with you on the 20th June!” Many celebrities including YN’s ex bandmate where see supporting YN through Instagram comments.

On the 28th May YLN released the single ‘My Everything/Ghostin’ and dedicated it her late partner Alex who unfortunately passed away in 2012. The video consists of photos and videos of Alex during childhood as well as during the couple’s relationship.

On 26 May 2016, on The Late Late Show with James Corden, YLN performed her song ‘Break Your Heart Right Back’ which is sampled from Diana Ross’ ‘Im Coming Out’.

Accolades

Awards and nominations for Break Up Season

Brit Awards 2017- Album of the year- Nominated

Brit Awards 2017- British female solo artist- Won

MTV Music Awards 2017- Album of The Year- Nominated