#girl sorry it took a lil longer than planned i had a week from HELL

[kjhmyg]

rough edges pt. 6 (m)

pairing: jungkook | (f) reader genre: college!au, badboy!jk, fluffy too :(  warnings: mentions of drugs, unprotected sex, cursing, violence, alcohol, drinking, death, manhandling, college parties, boys lol  word count: 10.7K

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / part 6 / 6.5

author’s note: hello i love u. first of all welcome to  ♡ libra season ♡ sorry this took so long; it feels kinda short so maybe i’ll post a short 1k chapter next week (part 6.5). i wrote the last half of the last part like an hour ago i hope i didnt make any big grammatical errors or typos lol. also dedicating this to my friend haru who i miss loads.

RE asks tag

What was a red mark on Jungkook’s cheek, has now turned purple-ish. He promises it doesn’t hurt anymore but you notice him mindlessly touching it at times. So you kiss it very gently each time you say goodbye and he doesn’t stop you.

With one arm around over the back of your chair, he’s feeding himself fries with the other. You lean against his shoulder, watching as he nibbles away. “Can’t keep your eyes off me huh?” He mutters.

“You know I can’t.” You admit, giggling into quick, continuous pecks. He lingers on a little longer on the last one like he always does.

“Will you guys save it for the bedroom?” Jimin asks, face twisted in disgust. He doesn’t really care, but it’s fun to tease Jungkook. “Gross.”

“Gross is you dipping fries in your coke.” Hana shakes her head at the soaked fry between his thumb and index finger.

"Don't be mad you don't have refined taste in food like me." He shoots back. “A soaked fry has equal parts sweet and salty.”

“You’re just gross.”

Hana’s realised it doesn’t take much to get under his skin and is enjoying every bit of it. The irony is that it always starts with Jimin trying to get under Jungkook’s skin. Next to Jimin, Taehyung’s phone has his undivided attention. In fact, he’s been rather quiet today, spending the last five minutes or so frowning at his screen.

“Tae, you alright?”

“No.” He sighs, finally looking up. “I have to get a job.”

“...And?”

“Well I don’t want to.” He says simply. “Can’t believe my parents are cutting off my allowance because I spend too much.” He uses air quotes.

Except for Jimin, the rest of you only manage blank stares, unable to sympathise with his first world problem. "Yeah, I’m sure those thousand dollar Balenciaga sneakers you got last week have nothing to do with it.” Jungkook says.

“Jungkook. They were limited edition.”

“A thousand dollars?” You say. “What the hell dude.”

“Okay can we stop talking about the past and focus on the present?” Leaning back against his chair and looking into the distance, Jimin places a comforting hand on his shoulder

“Don’t worry, we’ll find you a nice job.” Jimin says and he lets out a tiny whine, throwing his head back.

That’s when it hits you. You have no idea how, but it does. And you have no idea if it’ll work but you’re doing it anyway.

A clueless Hana raises a brow in question at the sudden look of mischief you give her. She braces herself for whatever you’re about to do, equally curious and worried. “Actually, you should apply at our café.” You say to Taehyung.

“They’re hiring?”

“Well not yet.” Turning back to her, you widen your eyes slightly, prompting Hana to play along. She quickly does, noticing Jungkook watching her over your shoulder. “I’m leaving soon so they’ll definitely need a replacement.”

“You’re quitting?” Jungkook asks, sitting up straight. “What happened?”

“Nothing.” The little head shake you give isn’t enough to convince him. “I just wanna work somewhere else. Anyway, you’d like working there Tae. It’s nice.” The other boy perks up, seemingly interested.

Hana agrees, explaining the details of your work and what it’s like there. While they talk, Jungkook squeezes your shoulder to get your attention, “Are you sure nothing happened? Creeps harassing you again?”

“No, really.” You say, hand over his cheek. “I just want a change of environment. The job’s getting boring.”

The worry in his eyes gradually disappears as he seems to accept it. He gives a soft okay for now. Looking away, you let out a silent sigh of relief. On the inside, the rational side of you is yelling her head off. What possessed you to decide to quit your job for no good reason? This plan is banking on the chance that Jungkook will let you join him at the club. Which when you think about it, is very unlikely to happen.

Yet, another part of you is excited. Your mind is in a frenzy. Convincing yourself you’ll figure the details out later, you silently thank Taehyung and his Balenciagas for handing you this opportunity.

"Oh hey, we better get going." Jimin says, looking at the time on his phone. "We'll see you guys tonight?"

The girls of Eta Iota are hosting a party tonight. Naturally, the boys get invited and by association, you too. Sunhee’s cashing in on your promise of taking her to one, so you have to go even if it’s just to hang around for a while then leave. You part ways with Jimin and Tae as Jungkook gives Hana and you a ride back. He walks with you to the lobby of your place, where you tell Hana to head up first.

Right by the stairwell, he leans against the wall and holds you in his arms, between his legs. “Are you sure you wanna quit your job?”

"Yessss, I’m sure. I wanna work somewhere else." Resting your chin on his chest, you look up at him. "It's cute that you're worried about me."

“Of course I am.” He kisses the top of your head. “I’ll help you keep a lookout for places that are hiring.”

You smile gleefully up at him. Oh, he’s going to help you get a new job alright. Just not in the way he’s thinking. Already, you feel bad for lying to him. But you keep telling yourself you’re doing this for him.

He doesn’t let you go so easily when you try and remove yourself, not giving up his hold on you. When you pry his hands off, he tugs you right back in, locking you in his arms as kisses land all over your face. “Stop,” you laugh, “someone might see us.” But you don’t look around to check for anyone. He doesn’t care either.

He lifts you up easily, wrapping your legs around him. Switching positions, you now feel the cool wall against your back. “Should we skip the party tonight?” He asks, a hopeful look in his eyes.

“You have to go. It’s part of your fraternity sorority socialising thingy thing.” He rolls his eyes at that. “Plus, I promised Sunhee I’d go with her.”

"Fine. But I’m only going ‘cause you’re going."

“So I’ll see you there, okay?” He nods in response as his hold on you loosens. A peck on the cheek and you’re going up the stairs, one step at a time, hand still holding on to his. As it slips away, he squeezes his chest with his other hand and groans in mock pain.

“Silly,” you mutter between giggles. He breaks character and skips up the steps to get another kiss from you. At this rate he would never leave.

“Jungkook seriously,” you say against his lips, leaning back to separate yourself from him, “you should go now. I’ll see you later anyway.”

He complies and lets you go, but not without releasing a very dramatic sigh. You hurry up the steps before he changes his mind, looking down over the railing as you go, waving your goodbye.

𝄖𝄖

Purple, purple everywhere. The Etas had decided to do their rush party while celebrating their anniversary. Which explains why the decorations are of their ‘official’ colour. Purple balloons, cups, banners, napkins.

“This is so fun!” Sunhee squeals, coming up to hug you from behind. “I’ve made a bunch of new friends!” She squeals again and hurries off elsewhere, leaving you and Hana once again.

“I’m glad she’s enjoying herself.” Hana comments, taking a sip of her drink.

“Aren’t you?” You nudge her side. “You’ve had like four guys come up and give you their number. Don’t act like you’re not having fun.”

“I guess I’m havin’ a lil’ fun…” she mumbles towards the end, sipping on her drink with a tiny smile. She’s holding up much better than you thought she would. Much better than you at least, she doesn’t seem too bothered by the constant yelling.

There’s no reason to worry about Sunhee. She’d clung on to you earlier when you arrived together as promised, like you’re her ticket in. As soon as you passed through the doors, a couple of girls from the host house came up to greet you. While it was a little awkward for you, Sunhee saw her chance and took it. She’s been hanging out with them since.

“Where’s Jungkook?” Hana asks. She’s still unsure about your plan. You had gotten an earful from her earlier on, back at the apartment. Only after you promised, pinky promised and swore you’d be safe, did she finally calm down.

“Somewhere.” It’s crowded enough to not be able to see the other end of the room. You crane your neck to see better. “Don’t know if I can find him with all these people around.”

“Go.” Her pretty, long eyelashes flutter over her eyes as she looks at you. “Don’t worry about me.”

You’re hesitant to leave, but she reiterates that she’d be fine and you finally nod, much to her relief. She has Jimin and Taehyung with her anyway, she says, nodding over to the pair a few feet away.

Before disappearing into the crowd, you turn back to let her know you might not see her for the rest of the night. But she’s read your mind, waving her hands at you. “You’ll be with Jungkook, I know.”

“Text me when you get home. I love you.” You blow her a kiss and watch her roll her eyes, then push through bodies of people to get to a different part of the house. There’s way too many people here. Most of them tower at least a head over you, disrupting your view. Your phone vibrates just as you enter the biggest room of the house which gives you a little more maneuvering space than the previous one.

Jungkook: u look great

Slowly, you turn in the spot you’re in, paying close attention to each section of the room.

Jungkook: i like pink

Jungkook: ur ass looks great in those jeans btw

You: reveal yourself  

He doesn’t respond and you continue to wander around, until you reach a short hallway separating the kitchen area from the previous room. With more room to breathe, you decide to stay put knowing Jungkook won’t keep this up for long anyway. And you’re right.

"Looking for me?" His hot breath tickles your ear.

Spinning around, you're greeted by his wide grin and immediately hate how good he looks in a simple white tee with his house name, Kappa Sigma embedded on the left chest, and tucked into black jeans, "Hey you." He tastes like fruit punch when you kiss him.

Your bodies sway slightly to the music with his hands on your hips and your arms around his neck. He reaches behind, pulling something out of his back pocket and holds it up in front of you. “Lollipop?”

“It’s...purple.” You take it from him, observing its odd colour, wondering if this was even necessary.

“I know.” He chuckles. “They really go all out.”

You shrug, unwrapping the sweet and pop it in your mouth. “So, you wanna get out of here?” He asks.

“But I thought you liked parties,” you blink, “socialising, hooking up.”

“I know you’re making fun of me but it’s kinda hot when you talk like that.” He eyes the way your lips wrap around the lollipop, unconsciously mirroring the movement of your tongue licking the layer of sugar off your lips, suddenly going thirsty.

You shove him in the chest and he laughs, stepping back. “I’ve been here less than an hour.” You say. Although, it’s not like you were planning to stay long anyway. You know that, he knows that.

“You won’t miss a thing, trust me.” He hooks an arm over your shoulder. “Besides, we can get started on the hooking up part.” He winks.

You leave through the back, avoiding the large crowd up front. You quickly send a text to Hana to let her know you’re leaving. Out on the lawn, you walk past a group of guys drunkenly singing to their heart's content and you flash them a thumbs up despite how horrible they sound.

The Eta Iota house is just a few houses down from the boys’ and you walk back hand in hand, swinging your arms as you go. Jungkook watches your smile, and the way you laugh when your arms swing so far back that it throws you off balance and you almost fall. “You look good.” He says, softly.

“I know, you told me.” You say without sparing him a glance. “I look good in pink. And these jeans are good for my ass.”

“No.” His voice is as soft as his smile. Looking at him then, you notice the tender look in his eyes. “I mean you look good when you’re happy. It’s nice. Does that make sense? I don’t know.”

Your heart leaps at the way he looks away almost shyly, focusing entirely on the ground as he walks, his other hand in his pocket. You close the gap between you and kiss him on the cheek. “I’m always happy when I’m with you.”

“I’m happy when I’m with you too.”

The rest of the short walk back goes in comfortable silence, you still lightly swinging your arms. But as you reach the front of the house, Jungkook pauses. It surprises you when he decides to take a walk in the park instead. You give him curious glances along the way, wondering what’s gotten into him. It’s a ten minute walk from his place to a park that’s your go-to for impromptu date nights.

You walk past groups of people hanging around, laughing with food on large picnic mats. Finally you opt for an empty space on the grass, not too far away from others there but secluded enough to have some privacy.

“Oh my god, look at the clouds.” They’re big and fluffy, floating through the dark sky. “I wish we could see the stars. That’d be perfect.”

Jungkook follows your gaze. “There are places where you can do that you know.”

“Yeah, I’d love to go one day.” You say with a heavy sigh.

“We could go together.” Jungkook says, making you look at him. “Like a vacation.”

“Aw. I’d love that.”

He smiles sweetly, then turns in place to face you. “I went to look for places which were hiring earlier.”

“You did? Why?”

“Aren’t you...quitting your job?” He looks at you confused. “Unless you’ve changed your mind.”

“Yeah but, there’s no rush.”

“Just wanna make sure you have something to fall back on.” He says, checking his phone. “So, the bakery right next to the cafe is hiring.”

“Jungkook,” you laugh, “I can’t quit and then take up a job next door!”

“I know but, just in case.” He goes on, looking upwards as he recalls. “The school’s also looking for a part-time librarian⎼”

“Baby no, that’s so boring.” You groan. “I thought I’d look for something more...exciting. Like a routesetter maybe?”

“I didn’t know you rock climb?”

“Oh I don’t.” He looks at you with a blank expression on his face. “What? I can learn to!”

"You're weird." He shakes his head and taps your nose. "Why would you wanna go out of your way for a part time job?"

"Cause...it's fun?"

"Even you don't believe that."

"You're right." The wheels in your head turn at full speed, trying to make this as natural as possible. You have to be careful, Jungkook's way too attentive when it comes to you. "Okay, I'll be honest."

He perks up. Face filled with curiosity, as if ready to say I knew it, that something was up, and that you wouldn't leave your job over nothing.

"I'm quitting because…" You gulp. "I want to spend more time with you."

"What?"

"Don't be mad." You add in quickly. "I just thought that I'd get to have more time to spare for you if I wasn't always working."

Eyes closed, he lets out a sigh and drops his head with a little shake. The small smile and amused look in his eyes makes you smile too. “Are you serious? Are you running a fever?” He places the back of his palm against your forehead and then checks the pulse on your wrist.

“I’m fine.” You snatch your hand back.

“The Y/N I know wouldn’t make impulsive decisions like this.” He quirks a brow, “You know you need that job. How else will you pay rent? Get groceries? You don’t ever let me pay for anything.”

“I’ll find a job with less hours.”

“Less hours, less pay.” He lifts your chin up, pouty lips calling him in. “Don’t be silly baby, you’re not leaving your job.”

“Too late.”

“What d’you mean?”

“I...may have...emailed my resignation...earlier on.”

He groans and you cringe when he shoots you a look of disapproval. You give your best kicked puppy look which doesn’t work. “This doesn’t happen often but I’m really mad at you right now.”

“Don’t be.” You scoot closer and when he turns his head away, you move onto his lap, forcing him in an embrace. “I’ll find something.”

“Like what?”

“I don’t know yet.”

“Go back to work tomorrow and speak to your manager. Tell him you’ve changed your mind.” He asks seriously. “I’ll go and have coffee during every one of your shifts so we’re technically spending time together.”

“Don’t be silly.”

“I’m the silly one?”

“Okay fine, I’m sorry.” You sigh. “I didn’t think things through…”

“You’re damn right you didn’t.” He rests his head in his palm. “So, what are you gonna do now?”

“Spend more time with you?” You inch even closer, if it’s even possible with how you’re already sticking to him like glue. He doesn’t reply right away but squeezes you in his hold, resting his cheek on your head. “Are you still angry?”

“Yes.”

You lift your head off him for a kiss. When he sighs this time, he feels the anger dissipating. At the same time he curses the way his body betrays him when it comes to you. You can barely tell he’s upset with the way he responds so eagerly. The pleased look you give him after has him rolling his eyes. “You can’t be mad at me. I’m cute.”

“True.” He leans back, hands on the grass behind him. “But, we are going to look for job postings online tonight.”

“But mom!” You whine, folding your arms in front of you.

“No buts.”

“Not even my butt?” Blinking innocently at him, you add in a little head tilt until he breaks and starts grinning. “Thought you liked my butt.”

He falls onto the grass, laughing in disbelief and you steady yourself on his chest. “What has gotten into you?” He says, watching as you hover over him. “You’re acting so weird.”

“No I’m not. I’m just happy, like you said.” You kiss him on the nose. “You’re the weird one. Nagging at me about getting a job. Being a responsible adult and stuff.”

He flips over, switching your positions so that he’s hovering over you now. Almost immediately, you’re distracted by how dreamy he looks with the view of the night sky behind him. You run your thumb over one side of his cheek. “You did this to me. Plus I’m just looking out for you.”

“I know. Thank you.”

“Don’t worry. I can pull some strings and get you a job somewhere fun.”

He rolls over to your side and lets you rest your head under his arm, both of you watching the sky. You shift even closer, slinging one leg over his and draw circles on his chest. “Hey I mean, worse comes to worst, I could always come and work for you.”

Surprisingly, he laughs. Really hard. You lift yourself up and rest on your elbow to watch him. “Nice one.” He sighs. Then he notices the way you’re looking at him, face void of expression and brows up in question. “What? You were serious?”

“Slightly offended that you thought it was that funny but yes, I was.”

He raises a brow at you. “You? Want to work at a club? Doing what?”

“Bartender? Cleaner?”

“Don’t even joke about that, our cleaners are our most valuable staff. They clean, sanitise, then double sanitise, wipe up vomit, make sure the booths aren’t lined with nasty fluids.”

Your face twists in horror and he nods, proving his point. “Okay...fine so I’m not qualified enough for that. But bartending? I can do that.”

“No.”

“Why?”

He gets up and you follow. He ruffles the back of his head and dusts of the grains on his hands. “Baby, you’re not working there. I won’t allow it.”

“But𝄖”

“Y/N, I said no.” There was no room to argue, not even cheekily. He didn't raise his voice, but the tone he took was enough. Easing the firm stare he gave you as he said it, he turns his attention to his phone as it beeps.

𝄖𝄖

"Lucky for you, I told the manager you just needed a break to focus on school," Hana yawns, pulling up the blanket to her face, "you can come back anytime."

"You want me to give up?"

"Only because your plan is dangerous."

"Hana, I'm not giving up."

She sighs, turning over to the other side. “Let’s talk tomorrow. I’m tired.”

You push yourself off her bed and sit on the edge, thinking. Quietly, you pull open the drawer by her bed, fumbling around until you feel what you’re looking for. The little paper you tore out of Jungkook’s notebook. When he started sleeping over, you had asked Hana to keep it safe for you. You stare at the address. You hadn’t gotten round to visiting the place, especially since you don’t even know what you’re looking for.

“Turn off the light when you leave, will you?” Hana mumbles half-asleep.

You leave the piece of paper and close the drawer.

𝄖𝄖

Two days later, you’re back at his place. The guys are all over, making sure the house is ready for a party tonight. Each of them were assigned different tasks to settle to save time. When you arrived, Hoseok made sure to separate Jungkook from you, for the sake of efficiency, so you’re stuck in the kitchen with Jimin. Helping him with the cleaning, you listen mindlessly as he rambles on about something. He yells at every guy that enters and tries to steal some snacks but sneaks some into his mouth when no one’s looking.

Just as you’re done wiping down the chip bowls, Jungkook walks in with dark stains all over his shirt and face. He chugs down half a bottle of orange juice from the fridge before opening a bag of gummies placed on the table for the party which has Jimin groaning.

“What happened to you?”

“Car oil needed changing. Cleaned up under the hood too.”

“What?” Jimin shrieks. “You were working on your car this entire time?”

“Yeah?”

“While the rest of us were preparing for the party? Unbelievable!” He huffs, “You were supposed to fix the first floor bathroom⎼”

Jungkook signals for him to stop, holding up a palm. “Fine, I’ll go do it now.” He reaches out for your hand and continues to nod at everything Jimin says as he tags you along, the nagging fading away as you run upstairs.

“You should really go and help out.” You say, plopping down on his bed with a bounce.

Jungkook hums, “I will. Later.”

Sniffing the shirt he has on, he lets out a disapproving grunt. He removes it in one swoop and tosses it into a basket. You watch quietly as he steps closer, eyes fixed on yours. He leans forward and your hands grip the sheets as you lean back, looking at him expectantly. Then his arm moves past your head and reaches for another shirt on the bed, behind you. He snickers and you slap his shoulder.

“I’m leaving.”

“Aw, come on, don’t go.” He jumps into bed and grabs you. He leans on his side, propped up on his elbow, hand on your middle.

“I have to get some groceries.” You play with his hair. “Then I’m gonna freshen up and come back here in time for the party.”

“Great, I’ll drive you.”

“No, you stay. Fix the bathroom.”

“But I don’t want to.” He groans, and rolls over onto you. Almost naturally, your legs wrap around him and he starts kissing your neck, moving down to your chest, pulling down your shirt. You stop him, giggling. “Why do you always wanna leave when we kiss?” He frowns.

“Why do you always kiss me when I’m leaving?”

“‘Cause I don’t want you to leave."

The smell of your skin makes him smile. It smells like...home.

You feel his weight slowly get heavier on you as his body relaxes and melts into yours, nestling his face into your neck. He almost drifts to sleep with the way you’re rubbing his back. When you ruffle his hair, he lifts his head and claims a kiss. “I love you.”

“Love you too. Kookie.”

You giggle as he drops his face in the space between your neck and shoulder. Groaning, he recalls the night Suga found out about the nickname. He has since, constantly used it on Jungkook whenever he can. “He’s never letting that go. Thanks a lot.”

“I’m sorry.” You laugh, chest moving under him. “I was drunk. I didn’t know what I was saying.”

Supporting his weight on one arm, he hovers above you while his free hand brushes past the side of your face. “You don’t remember anything you said that night?”

“No.” That can’t be good. You scan his face. “Why? Did I say something weird?”

“No. Just wondering.” He says gently, expression slowly changing into a smile that makes you forget you were even worried a second ago. “Don’t get drunk anymore. Suga likes you way too much when you’re drunk.”

“Does he?” You laugh, cupping his face. If Suga likes you, you can use this to your advantage. You can’t wait to tell Hana your plan worked.

When Jungkook hears the sound of his name being called from somewhere around the house, he groans and sinks into you again. You push him off you with much difficulty, laughing as he keeps plopping back down into you.

“Okay, they need you. I’m leaving so you can focus. I’ll come back later.” You say, when you finally manage to escape. Reluctantly, he follows behind as you walk down the stairs.

Just as you reach the bottom of the steps, you’re being pulled to the side, against the wall where he corners you into, hands on either side. “I’ll be waiting, so you better show up.” Down your back, up your front, his hands run over your body till they rest just under your jaw, making you lift your chin towards him. Breath hitching in your throat, he carefully brings his lips to yours, teasing a soft touch. Then he lets go.

He smiles like nothing happened and you catch your breath before racing to the front door. You hear a soft chuckle and turn to see him winking at you as he goes in the other direction. Hearing voices from the kitchen where the meeting has started, you quickly close the door behind you, ignoring the pulsing between your thighs.

𝄖𝄖

With a basketful of groceries, you stroll through the store, looking for anything you might have missed out. As you walk, you notice from afar, standing right in front of the refrigerated section your new friend Namjoon. You head straight for him, a little bounce in your step. When you stop right next to him, he turns slowly and carefully.

“Oh. It’s you.” He says as he realises.

“Getting some groceries?” You ask, looking at the shelf then back at him.

“Oh just,” he lifts up a bottle of juice, “getting my orange juice. I see you’re getting your monthly supply. You alone?”

“Yeah I am.” You nod, “My roommate’s busy with school stuff.”

“Right.” He smiles, then it seems like a thought comes to him. “Hey, you’re going for the party tonight right?”

“What? How’d you know about that?” You look at him confused.

“I have friends too you know.”

“But, you can’t come. You’re technically faculty.” You say, putting down your basket to fold your arms in front of you and stare him down. “Are you trying to get us in trouble?”

He chuckles, then points and holds up a finger in front of you. “Actually, I’m an external instructor. So technically, I’m not faculty.”

“How convenient.” You eye him down.

“Fine, fine.” He sighs. “It’s been a while since I’ve been to a party, okay? I just wanna mingle.”

“Hm.” You chew on your bottom lip. Seems genuine enough. You can’t help but wonder if he’s there for something else. How will that go down with Jungkook? “An instructor looking to mingle with his students...definitely no red flags there.”

He rolls his eyes at you. “Come on, I’m not that much older than you. And I’m not that kinda person.”

“That’s what they all say.” You shrug. “Well, I’ll be keeping an eye on you.”

“Cool.” He winks. “I’ll see you tonight.”

He walks off way too quickly, like he’s avoiding something and heads straight for the checkout counter. Of course you know why he’d go to a college party; the perfect place to sell his drugs. You can’t figure out if you should let Jungkook know about Namjoon. But then again, he almost always knows what’s going on. And he’d be uneasy knowing you know so much.

You pick up your basket off the floor and head for checkout yourself. Barely making ten steps, you notice someone leaning against the side of a shelf, watching you with his arms crossed, mischievous smile on his face. Your other new friend. How coincidental.

“Suga.” You say, a tone way too excited for his liking but he nods anyway. You walk over to him and stand awkwardly before him, holding your basket with both hands in front of you. “Hi.”

“Hey cutie.” He searches for someone behind you. “Where’s Jungkook?”

“Oh he’s back at home.” You smile. “They’re getting ready for rush week. And the party tonight.”

“Am I invited?”

“Oh, um…” You can tell he’s joking, but you can’t be too sure. How interesting would it be to have Jungkook, Namjoon and Suga in one place. You wonder what would happen if they met.

You chuckle nervously without giving an answer and he shrugs it off. “I was kidding.”

“I guess you can come if you want to.” You say with a tiny shrug. “I’m sure Jungkook won’t mind.”

He changes the subject almost immediately, offering to help you carry your basket, which you politely decline. He walks with you to the counter. “So who was that guy you were talking to?”

Oh, he’s an instructor from school and also the new drug dealer in town. “Oh him? He’s the new self-defense instructor on campus.”

“Really?” He looks amused, and bites his bottom lip in a half-smile. “Cool. And you guys are friends?”

“Yeah. Kinda.” You place your basket on the counter and help the cashier to unload the items to scan. You don’t notice the way Suga laughs silently to himself, shaking his head.

“You know what, I gotta go.” Suga says, walking backwards towards the exit. You don’t even manage to reply to him before he takes off. “Let’s drink again sometime soon!”

𝄖𝄖

Hana is less than pleased to know about your run-ins. She looks at you with daggers in her eyes. “You have to stop this. He obviously knows your plan."

"Stop overreacting. How could he possibly know that?"

She shrugs. The loud music drowns out your voices from being overheard by those around you. "It's hard to believe it was a coincidence running into him.” She says and you sigh, choosing to ignore her.

The last you saw Jungkook, he was laughing away with a group of people. You didn’t want to bother him, he’d be busy anyway trying to get freshies on his side. But it’s been a while and now you don’t see him anywhere.

While Hana mingles, you go off to look for him. In the kitchen, you find Jimin doing shots of something that doesn’t look edible with a bunch of guys cheering him on. But no Jungkook. You peek out on the deck out back but he’s not there either. A hand on the sliding doors, you sigh and step out into the courtyard, breathing in air that doesn’t smell like sweat.

You pause when you step down the stairs and spot something, squinting at the sight of two guys in the far end of the backyard, right by the bush-lined fence. Recognising that jacket, you realise one of them is Jungkook. He then pulls something out of his pocket and shakes hands with the other guy. You turn back before he spots you. Probably just a polite handshake. Maybe with an old friend. Yup.

Step back inside, you’re being stopped by a hand on your arm. “You look flustered.” He says.

“Hi Hoseok.” You force a smile. “It’s warm in here.”

His eyes flicker over to the backyard and back at you. “This is what he does at parties. It’s how he distributes them.”

“So?” You look around uncomfortably.

“I know you don’t like it either.” He stops you before you can reply. “Can you meet me outside in ten minutes? It’s important.”

“You’re already here, what is it? No one’s paying any attention to us anyway.”

“I can’t.”

The sceptical look you give him has him feeling restless. “Trust me, it’s very important.”

From the tone of his voice, he sounds sincere. You don’t want to, but do you want to risk not knowing something that could help you help Jungkook? You hate this. After a long pause, you nod reluctantly. “Fine.”

Neither of you realised the two figures approaching until they’re walking up the steps. Hoseok and you share a look, as if pleading to the other to act normal. As they reach the door, you see now that Jae is the other guy. He greets you as he walks past, then blends into the crowd. Behind him, Jungkook spares you a curious look at the little exchange. He then notices Hoseok’s presence.

“What’s going on?” He looks back and forth at the two of you. “You look upset.”

“Hm? Oh no, I’m fine.” You muster up your best smile. “We were just talking about the guy who puked in the sink earlier.”

“Speaking of which, I should go make sure he’s not puking elsewhere.” Hoseok says, taking his leave.

You can’t tell if Jungkook bought that but he doesn’t question it. His demeanour changes as soon as Hoseok leaves, directing his attention on you. “He wasn’t bothering you, was he?”

“No.” You smile. “I ran into him while looking for some food.”

“Oh⎼”

He doesn’t get a chance to continue when someone he knows slaps him on the back. They chat for a while as he keeps you close next to him, even when you try to pry his fingers off. The other guy drags him somewhere but before he goes, he turns to you. “Grab some food and meet me upstairs, I’ll just be a second.” He winks, stealing a kiss.

“You don’t have to. I’ll just come find you later on it’s fine𝄖”

“You’re not getting rid of me babe.” He jokes and you let out an awkward laugh as he goes.

You haven’t mastered being in two places at once, you’re not a ninja. And in a few minutes, Hoseok will be waiting for you outside. And Jungkook upstairs. You groan, searching the cabinets for some snacks before heading up to Jungkook’s room.

That’s when you notice a familiar blond head among the crowd you. It distracts you. You could’ve sworn that was Suga. But too many people are blocking your line of sight. As you reach the spot you had possibly seen him, he’s gone. You don’t have time to think about this. Swiftly, you run up the steps and head right for Jungkook’s door. And of course, a familiar face exits the washroom on the same floor.

“Namjoon.”

“Why do you look so surprised to see me?” He raises a brow with a playful smile on his face. “I told you I was coming.

You shake your head and look behind you. “Nothing I was just⎼”

“Hogging all the snacks?” He gestures towards the food you’re cradling in your arms and you laugh.

“There’s more downstairs.” You reassure him.

As if on cue, footsteps move swiftly up the stairs and you glance behind to find Jungkook halfway up, a cautious look on his face as he approaches you. Namjoon nods politely. For a moment it’s like you can no longer hear the music blasting, enveloped by the awkward silence.

“Uh, Jungkook this is Namjoon.” You notice the way his jaw clenches as he takes Namjoon’s outstretched hand in his. “And this is Jungkook.”

“The boyfriend. Nice to meet you.” He flashes a blinding smile Jungkook’s way.

“Likewise.”

Namjoon reads the room well and you’re thankful for it. He excuses himself, saving you from having to grease the conversation any further. “See you guys around.” He says, leaving.

Jungkook opens the door for you and you drop the snacks on his table. His fingers immediately wrap around you, lifting you up and throwing you onto the bed. “Finally." He mutters pulling you in.

You giggle nervously as he kisses you all over, pulling away from him. He shoots you a confused look. "Wait I...need the toilet."

He throws his head back but moves aside to let you go. "Okay. I'll wait."

Hurrying out, you close the door and run downstairs, rushing past the sea of bodies to the front door. Once outside, you look around scanning the few faces there for him. Hoseok stands around the corner at the side of the house and calls out your name.

The front and back of the house is well lit, but not the sides. Both of you stand in the shadows by the wall, waiting for him to speak. But he doesn't, instead, he looks around anxiously.

"Hoseok, what is it? You said this is important!" You hiss. "I can't be too long, Jungkook's waiting for me."

"Just give him a second, he'll be here."

"Who?"

"He's here." His eyes focus on a man wearing a navy sweatshirt, hoodie pulled up so you can't really see who it is. He only pulls it down when he joins you in the shadows.

"Hi."

"Y/N, this is Seokjin. He works with my friend."

"Oh. Hello." You watch him curiously. If you could describe a smile as being trustworthy, it would be his.

"Thanks for meeting me," he starts, "I’ll make it quick. It's about a case I'm sure the two of you are familiar with. Actually, I'm here to speak to you, Y/N."

"Me?" You ask, worrying.

"As you know we have an agent working undercover. He's seen you around and since you know about this operation, he’s worried you might get too close, given your relationship with one of the suspects involved. We want to make sure you stay out of it as much as possible."

"But I'm not doing anything to jeopardise the operation."

"We know." He nods, "But still, we have to emphasise that these people are dangerous. You do not want to get involved. You shouldn’t know about this operation in the first place, but nothing we can do about that now.”

Hoseok’s eyes downcast and hands hide in his pockets, knowing he wasn’t supposed to reveal anything to you. “He’s okay right?” He asks softly.

“He’s fine. He personally contacted me to speak with you. And he’s sorry he hasn’t answered his phone, it’s too risky.”

“Who’s this guy again? Do I know him?” You ask.

“You already know too much as it is. I can’t reveal the name of our agent. We can’t risk him getting exposed, it could cost him his life.”

Silence ensues. It’s uncomfortable to think about how someone could literally die from an unfortunate slip of the tongue. You wait for someone to diffuse the tension. Hoseok looks like he’s in thought, opening his mouth to speak then stopping. Seokjin beats him to it. “In case it’s not clear enough, your plan ends here Y/N.”

How does he⎼ oh. So that’s why Hoseok looks troubled. You stare him down and mutter through clenched teeth. “You told him.”  

“I didn’t mean to!” He spits out. “When Seokjin called me earlier, I got reminded of you. I had to tell him. And I know you wouldn’t listen to me anyway, so I got him to come here.”

“Listen. I just want to help Jungkook, that’s all.” You sigh. “I promise I won’t get in the way.”

“I get it. Hoseok’s explained it to me.” It’s Seokjin’s turn to sigh. “Doesn’t matter what your intentions are, it’s best if you stay away.”

You look helplessly over at Hoseok, then reluctantly agree with a nod. “I’ll try.”

“No, you see, this isn’t a request. It’s an order. There is a chance you’ll get convicted as part of the group if you don’t keep your distance. Is that what you want?”

“No. But𝄖”

“Good, so we’re on the same page.”

“No, we’re not.” Huffing, you step closer to him. “I’m not doing this for fun. I’m trying to get my boyfriend out of there.”

“I understand. But there’s no telling what could happen. Let us handle it. If he’s innocent, then you don’t have anything to worry about. The most important thing here is that you don’t end up getting caught up in the mess. Do you really want to be associated with criminals?”

“Jungkook’s not a criminal.”

Seokjin holds up his hands in a surrender. “That’s not what I meant.”

Hoseok gulps, gently touching your arm. “Y/N please. Let them handle it.”

“I am letting them handle it.” You say stubbornly before turning back to Seokjin. “Look, I’m just here for Jungkook. Tell that to your guy. I won’t stand in the way of the operation.”

“You do know that this is all off the record?” Seokjin starts, “That means even though our undercover, as well as I, am aware that you’re not involved, if by any chance you’re caught with drugs or anything illegal at the time of the raid, you might get convicted. There will be no records to show that you’re innocent.”

“I understand.”

“Alright.” Seokjin pulls his hoodie back up. Now you can only faintly see the bottom half of his face. “Take care. Remember, no one else can know about this.”

He takes off in quick steps, round the corner and down the street. Hoseok fidgets in his spot, trying to find the right words. “I didn’t make him do this to scare you or anything. Promise.”

“I know, Hoseok.” You smile softly. “But you get it right? Why I’m doing this?”

“Yeah...” he trails off for a moment, then continues. “You saw him earlier didn’t you?”

“I did.” You shake your head with a sigh, “Trust me okay? I’m doing everything I can to help Jungkook, like you wanted me to.”

“I never wanted this. I don’t want you to get hurt if things don’t go as planned.”

“Whatever happens after, I’ll deal with it then.”

𝄖𝄖

Feeling numb, the walk back upstairs feels like you’re on autopilot, barely hearing the buzzing of the crowd. You take a deep breath before turning the knob of Jungkook’s door, willing yourself to forget the last ten minutes ever happened. He’d read you like a book in this state.

But your bright smile is wasted on an empty room.

“Jungkook?”

𝄖𝄖

The next day, you're sitting on the running track, soaked in sweat after a long session of track and field. The coach bids his goodbye as the team continues their cooling down stretches. Hana plops down next to you. “So?”

“What?”

“You wanna talk about it?” She asks, picking dirt off of your cheek with her thumb. “You seemed really out of it last night. Barely spoke the whole day today…”

“I’m sorry.” You shake your head. “Just thinking.”

You decided not to tell her about Seokjin and everything that was said last night. For now at least. She already has reservations about your plan as it is, telling her about Seokjin would just freak her out even more.

“Jungkook called you yet?”

“Mhm.” Technically it was a text, wishing you good morning with a kissy face emoji. Not wanting to make a big deal out of the night before, you reply as you normally would. “Don’t worry about me, I’m just tired actually.”

She hangs an arm over your shoulder and gives you a side hug. “No more parties for you.”

“Yeah they’re kinda lame aren’t they?” You laugh.

After grabbing your stuff, you’re headed for the locker room. You're too deep in thought to realise the girls on your team giggling around you. It isn't until Hana nudges you then nods to bleachers that you realise your boyfriend is waiting for you. He salutes the other ladies with a winning smile as they walk off, before getting off his butt.

The girls mutter quietly, and you hear the words lucky and they're so cute as they leave you. Hana waves to Jungkook before walking ahead. Jungkook trots down the steps and lifts you in a hug.

“Sorry, I’m sweaty.”

“That’s okay,” he smiles, swaying you side to side, “not the first time I have you all sweaty in my arms.”

“Shut up.”

He laughs, then starts swinging your hands as you walk back. “Hey sorry about last night."

"Oh it’s fine. Don't worry about it." You say, with a shake of your head, looking at the ground. "You're a busy man, I know."

"Can I make it up to you? Tonight?"

"Alright." You nod. "I gotta shower first though. And you have to give me a ride back to get some fresh clothes."

"No need to dress up."

"But I want to." You pout and he chuckles.

The sound of whistling and yelling coming from the field gets your attention. It's the soccer team, practice still ongoing. It only just occurred to you that you haven't seen Jungkook there in a while.

"Why aren't you practicing with them anymore? Did you quit?"

Jungkook looks at you with an amused look on his face. "Y/N, I was never part of the team."

"Huh?" You stop in your tracks. "I'm pretty sure I've seen you on that field running after the ball."

"Yeah but I was never really on the team." He reiterates. Now you're confused. "I only practiced with them so I could watch you during track and field."

"What?"

"Have you forgotten? I'm on the basketball team."

Honestly, you hadn’t made the connection that it’s impossible for him to be on both the soccer and basketball teams until now. "No wait, you joined them just to watch me?"

"Yes and no?" He shrugs proudly. "At first it was because I got kicked off the basketball team. Then we started dating. I got to see you every practice. Then I got reinstated on the basketball team. And I didn't wanna stop seeing you during practice so I kept going. Until now."

"Jungkook that is𝄖"

"Sweet?"

"Lowkey creepy."

He lets out a tiny gasp with a look of betrayal on his face. "But...I wanted to see you."

You laugh at the utter disappointment he shows and pat his face, though it feels like a light slap, before running off making him chase after you.

𝄖𝄖

Laying on the hood of his car, with his arm under your neck, Jungkook listens to you talk about anything and everything. In your favourite spot, parked by the beach so you get the cool breeze and the gentle sound of waves crashing onto the shore.

He enjoys listening to you talk about your life; what your childhood was like, what kind of trouble you used to get into, your family. It’s like peeling off a new layer every time. Who knew you used to bully the bully as a kid? And let’s not forget that time you got detention for smoking in school but you only did it to get your dad’s attention so that he would stop dating the evil girlfriend who threatened to send you off to boarding school.

“Baby are you...a troublemaker?” He muses and you laugh.

“Well I was. I grew out of it.” You shrug and look up at him. “Kinda.”

“Would’ve never guessed. You’re so shy. And good.”

“Yeah. Once I realised how my behaviour was affecting people’s liking towards me, I changed.”

He smiles tenderly at you, always so full of surprises. You play with the hem of his sweater, then look up at him. “What about you? You haven’t told me anything about your past.”

Not once has he shared his own stories. You never asked because you didn’t want to pressure him. But you’re almost out of stories yourself.

Jungkook looks up at the sky for a while. You sense the hesitance. “There’s nothing much to say.”

“What about...your family? Do you have any siblings?”

There’s no reply, only the sound of the waves crashing and a distant laughter from a group of friends on the beach. “I don’t want to talk about it.”

“Okay.” Propping yourself up on your elbow, you see now the faint sparkle in his eyes. Could be the cool breeze making his eyes water. He blinks it away when you stare. “We can talk about other things.”

He smiles as his eyes scan your face before you’re snuggling into his side again. “I like hearing your stories.”

“But I’ve told you everything.”

“What about your first kiss?”

You groan. “I’ve told you that one. It was during camp. He pushed me into the lake after that because it was all a dare.”

“Oh right and then you threw all his clothes into the lake as revenge.”

“Yeah.” You laugh. “It was pretty funny.”

He laughs thinking about tiny Y/N lugging a big bag full of clothes and dumping it into a lake as the owner yells in horror. Who knew you had it in you. You’re always so calm and by the book, it’s almost like a whole other person.

“Can you tell me about your tattoo?” You look up at him.

He smirks, turning his head to the side towards the arm it’s on. It’s a tiger head on the upper bicep of his right arm. Made up of shapes, lines, squiggles, it has sharp piercing eyes. It’s beautiful, really. “It’s just something to represent my loyalty towards my brothers.”  

You’ve never seen this mark on the other frat boys, so you assume he’s talking about his other group of brothers. “It’s nice. I like it.”

“Mhm.” It’s tough to crack him. He never reveals more than what he thinks you need to know.

After a while, you pluck up the courage to ask him about the job. “Have you thought about what we discussed?” You ask softly, playing with his fingers.

“What did we discuss?”

“About the job,” you remove yourself from him again and this time get on your knees, “about me working at the club?”

He sighs, looking at you like the stubborn teenager in your stories. “I already told you no.”

“You won’t even consider it.” You pout.

He smiles, surprisingly. “After careful consideration, I regret to inform you that you’ve been rejected. You don't have what it takes.”

“Rude!” You huff, “I have all that it takes.”

“No, you don’t.”

“Yes I do! I’m tough.” You spit out. You strike an awkward pose, doing something weird with your arms. “I have swag.”

It makes him laugh so hard he starts tearing and almost choke on his saliva. Embarrassed, you laugh along, hitting him on his chest. Cheeks hurting from all that, he opens his arms. “Come here you.”

You drop into him, mostly to hide your face in his shoulder. He holds you tight, a content sigh escapes him as he does. “I love you so much.” He says into your ear.

Lifting your head up to face him, he smiles tenderly at you, softly tracing a finger over your face, the lulling movement making your eyes flutter shut.

𝄖𝄖

“You got a problem with me?” Namjoon says to the smaller guy.

Suga smirks bitterly, unimpressed by how the new guy has no respect whatsoever towards him. “I do actually. What’s your deal?”

“What d’you mean?”

“You appear out nowhere, get dispatched to our district. Same area as Jungkook no less...are you trying to replace us?”

“Hey, I didn’t choose the location.” Namjoon shrugs. “Maybe if you guys didn’t suck so bad they wouldn’t have asked me to secure the bags.”

He braces himself as Suga lunges forward, shoving him against the wall, his collar bunched up in clenched fists. Surprisingly strong for a small dude. “You don’t come work for us and talk shit about us to my face.”

Namjoon tugs on his clothes, pulling them out of Suga’s grip. He clears his throat and tries to calm himself. “My bad. Next time I’ll do it behind your back.”

“What are you up to? You took a job on campus, why? Jungkook’s already got that covered.”

“Like I said, I didn’t choose to. I was sent there.” He steps forward, making Suga take a few steps back.

“Liar.”

“Look if you have a problem with it, take it up with the lieutenant.” Namjoon walks off, angering the other guy even more. The nerve of this new kid makes his blood boil. There’s something off about him, there’s no way the bosses would send a new guy in for no reason.

He stomps his way into Kyun’s office, slamming the door behind him. Kyun looks up, sees him, and goes back to his laptop. “What?”

“Don’t you think there’s something wrong with that RM guy?” Suga says, pulling up a chair.

“No. Why?”

“He’s so full of himself.”

“Name one person working here that isn’t,” Kyun says, “besides, you should be thankful I assigned him to you. Jungkook’s been slacking.”

“I told you, the school’s keeping an eye on him. He’s taking it slow.”

Suga can’t remember how many times he’s used that excuse. He can’t come right out and admit that Jungkook has in fact been slacking. Or rather, distracted. Not to mention the time Jungkook considered leaving all of this behind. It’s no surprise the lieutenant’s picked up on it.

“Whatever.” Kyun mutters, obviously tired of having this conversation.

“Wait,” the wheels in Suga’s head turn and he looks curiously at his lieutenant, “you’re not doubting Jungkook are you? Did you send RM in to replace him?”

“If Jungkook’s doing a good job like you seem to think he is, why would you be worried about this?”

Suga purses his lips, “He’s fine. He hasn’t missed any of his shifts. I couldn’t have gotten shit done at the club without him.”

“Numbers are still low though.”

“That’s because you’ve got the new kid stealing all his buyers.”

“RM’s good and the staff there seem to trust him. He stays.”

“Fine. Then get off Jungkook’s back about his numbers. He can’t sell drugs the same as before if you have another dealer there competing with him.”

Kyun thinks about it for a minute, then nods. “Alright fine. Anyway, it’s good that you’re here now. I can run through what boss wants you to get up and running at the club.”

It hits Suga that Kyun having doubts about Jungkook is bad news, at least, if word travels up the hierarchy. While Jungkook had promised to keep up, Suga intends to make sure he actually does. He can’t afford anymore slip-ups. Or distractions, in the form of you. He can’t let anything happen to Jungkook.

𝄖𝄖

Sneaking back into the house at such an ungodly hour, you guide Jungkook in the dark, careful not to make a sound.

Back in your room, his jacket and shirt are the first to go. He lifts you up and carries you to the bed, lips not parting from each other.

Slipping under your shirt, he unhooks your bra and pulls your shirt with it over your head. Lips smiling on yours, his hands knead your breasts and you feel your nerves reacting. He trails wet kisses down your front, fingers undoing your jeans and pulling them off in a single swoop.

He removes his own pair of jeans, leaving him in his boxers. Then, kneeling by your legs, he gently peels your panties off, taking in the view of your naked body, lighted up by the warm yellow of your nightlight. If he could, he’d engrave this image of you in his head.

His eyes wide and lustful, they trail over you. “You’re so beautiful.” He whispers.

Hovering above you, he strokes the side of your face, before pressing his body to yours in a soft gentle kiss. He moves so gently, like you could break at any moment. When your hands wrap around his neck, he grabs hold of your wrists, pinning them above your head. You let out a soft whimper.

Jungkook takes his time, showering your skin with kisses. Starting from your neck down to your navel. He licks one side of your breast, teasingly drawing circles with his tongue along the nipple, then gives the same attention to the other. Your breathing gets hitched in your throat, feeling the blood rush down south.

He brings his mouth lower, hands now occupying your breasts where his mouth was. It sends you butterflies the way his hot breath brushes against your skin. There’s something different about the way he’s touching you tonight.

He spares some kisses down your inner thighs and watches the way goosebumps appear as they try to clam up reflexively.

Hands on your thighs, he pushes them apart and runs a teasing lick over your folds. Then his tongue finds its way to your clit, flicking it gently before his lips wrap around it and he starts gently sucking. You jolt and take in a sharp breath grabbing a fishful of the sheets.

His fingers delicately touch your folds, running a teasing finger over your entrance. Looking up from between your thighs, he watches the way you steady your breaths, eyes closed, brows furrowed.

It doesn’t last long and when you open your eyes, he’s hovering over you, licking his lips. Very eagerly you pull down the hem of his boxers, exposing his hard cock. His own fingers wrap around it, stroking himself gently as he reaches for a bottle of lube. He stares at you with a look you can’t read.

“Something on your mind?” You voice out.

He shakes his head with a gentle smile and takes his position between your legs, your thighs over his. Aligning himself with your entrance, he grips your ankles on either side. Slowly, he enters and you will yourself not to make a sound at the initial stretch.

Jungkook keeps a steady pace, watching intently the way he moves in and out of you. You can’t help but to stare at him and the way his abs clench every time he moves his hips into you. The flexing of his arms every now and then, keeping your legs steady. And the way the warm light casts shadows dancing over his body as he moves.

“Jungkook.” You call out for him, so softly.

He releases your ankles and leans forward, resting his body on yours. Pressing his forehead to you, he admires the look of lust in your eyes and the way you’re biting your bottom lip. “Yes, my love?”

Your fingers run over his face. You’re too occupied with the pleasure of him inside you that your brain refuses to put your thoughts into words. He chuckles when you only manage a breathy smile instead.

Your wrists get pinned over your head once again, and he watches you from above. Every thrust is deep and filling, his hips moving expertly to give you just the right amount of pleasure, leaving you a hot mess beneath him.

You look absolutely breathtaking to him; the parting of your lips, eyes shut and shaky breaths. Your breasts bounce with every thrust and your chest rises and falls with every breath you take. He lets out a low guttural sound and presses his body to yours, devouring your lips in a passionate kiss.

His hips pick up speed, grinding into you with calculated moves. You get lost in each other, a mixture of your quick breaths filling the room. The look in his eyes is mirrored in yours, waves of emotions flowing between both your bodies and soul.

Jungkook can’t describe his feelings for you. It’s something he hasn’t felt in a long time; warmth, love, trust, acceptance. All he knows is to tell you he loves you and hopes you get it.

Your eyes get misty as you let your own emotions get to you, feeling the twinge in your chest when you look at him.

Arms wrapping around his waist, your tongues dance between your lips. He knows all the right spots to leave you breathless. You feel it building in the pit of your stomach, and pull away from the kiss, no longer in control of your actions.

Jungkook feels it too, sensing the pressure between your hips as they wrap tightly around him. He steadies himself and gives you long, deep strokes, as he watches your breaths get quicker. The euphoric look on your face earns a grunt of approval from him.

Not wanting to hold back any longer, his hips grind into yours at a quicker pace, feeling himself reaching his release. His mouth latches on to your nipple, sucking it for a second before he hears small whines leaving you, signalling you’re close.

Willing yourself to keep your eyes open, you place a hand on the side of his face, making sure his eyes stay on yours. It gets blurrier with the way tears start to fill your eyes. “I love you.” You blurt out in a whisper and he rests his forehead on yours as he thrusts hard, one which makes your insides squirm.

Jungkook’s breath hitches in his throat as he watches you. A single tear rolls down the side of your face as you start to reach your high. “I love you Y/N.”  He breathes out against your lips before capturing you in a kiss. With one hard thrust, you find yourself succumbing to the pressure in your middle, unravelling a wave of pleasure that courses through your entire body, chest rising towards him and hands keeping him close.

Watching you, he reaches his own climax, hips bucking wildly into yours, and you feel his warm release spilling inside you, his moans lost in the kiss. It takes a while before his hips slow down into a gentle rhythm. Your body goes limp as you ride it out, drained of energy.

He catches his breath with his head on yours and when you finally catch each other’s eyes, you share a giggle. He shines in his afterglow, a look of pure bliss on his face. But he could say the same for you, thumb running over your cheek to wipe off the tear stains.

In that moment, it feels as if you’re staring right into his soul. He stares back at you, as if trying to say something more than what’s been said, worrying once again about conveying what’s in his heart. But you just smile back.

“I know, Jungkook. I know. I love you too.”

[koo-zy]

hello! do you have any fantasy/historical jungkook x reader fic recs ?

hello lovely!! i’m so sorry i missed this yesterday :( i was actually planning on reorganizing my tumblr because i feel like no fics are ever going to be able to be found my blog LOL so hopefully that’ll be done soon!!

as for the fantasy/historical fics.. i’m honestly not too sure what “fantasy” (do demons count..? soulmates..? werewolves????) typically includes so i’m just going to include a bunch of fics that hopefully fit in :”) here are the first ones that i thought of + summaries included in their main posts!

also.. i’m sure i missed a lot of amazing fics (mainly because i’m dumb as hell and don’t really know what can be included in “fantasy”) and would like to apologize in advance!! 

@inktae ’s entire masterlist (they have a lot of fantasy fics!)

while this isn’t just jungkook recs, @ficswithluv had a fantasy category a few weeks ago!

@kpopfanfictrash ‘s jungkook masterlist

@fortunexkookie ‘s jungkook masterlist

one shots!

énouement - @littlemisskookie Mulan!AU

War is Hell, but it’s what you had to do to take your brother’s place. Of course, between the days of Hell are little slices of Heaven you’d call your Captain, Jeon Jungkook.

midas - @gukyi 

jeon jungkook was born with a silver spoon in his mouth and the power to turn whatever he wants into pure gold. you were born with healing and invisibility powers but without a cent to your name. so when you’re plucked off of the streets for pickpocketing and assigned to be his minder as punishment, you realize you’re going to have to overcome a lot more than class differences if either of you are going to get what you want.

i will not lose! - @jimlingss Magic!AU

A single bet - use every means to make Jeon Jungkook fall in love with you.

a piece of the moonlight - @/jimlingss Mulan!AU

For your loved ones, the people who are waiting at home, the people who have died - you will fight. And sometimes to fight means to sacrifice: who you really are and the person you really love.

dynasty - @/jimlingss Historical!AU

It’s no secret that the Emperor is infertile. But even so, a girl is selected every three months and brought to become his concubine in hopes of conceiving the next heir. This time, it’s you. And in order to prevent execution, Jeon Jungkook might just aid you in conception.

game of temptation ft. knj, myg, kth - @/jimlingss Succubus!AU 

As a succubus, your beauty is unrivaled and shaped to tempt mortals. But it’s still hard to resist Taehyung, and there’s little you can do once you’ve been coerced to do his bidding for him. This time, you find yourself entering the affluent Kim Household as a housemaid. And these poor humans don’t know your intentions are far from being angelic.

knot today - @kinktae

(IDK IF WEREWOLVES COUNT BUT JERHFBDSKNZX THIS IS REALLY GOOD!!)

When your first heat approaches and you are left partnerless, who better to turn to than your alpha roommate that you’ve spent the better half of your life hiding your feelings for?

ego - @luxekook Harry Potter!AU

(..i also don’t know if HP counts LOL)

in which jeongguk is a cocky lil shit and the reader has to take him down a few pegs

stumbling - @hayjeon Prince!AU

an ask in their inbox regarding the prompt: hii! so the royal wedding of prince harry and meghan is today, and since my bias is JK and since i’m such a sucker for royal stuff, can i reuest a fic of bts all being royal of 7 different kingdom, and all of them being invited to jin’s wedding and the girl (oc) is also invited and kookie met her there, and eventually took an interest at her? the girl is also royalty from other kingdom. thanks!

werewolf!jungkook - @/hayjeon

an ask in their inbox regarding the prompt: Werewolf!jk? (im sorry ik it’s overused and unoriginal) where he and his mate have pups to take care of and they’re quite a mischievous bunch!

there for you - @cupofteaguk Hogwarts!AU

Jungkook is always known for doing things unapologetically, and it makes sense given how almost nothing gets under his skin—almost nothing, but maybe there’s an exception that takes a form of a muggleborn with the shy smile and quirky spells.

say you won’t let go - @/cupofteaguk Soulmates!AU

You’ve been eighteen years old for ten years when Jungkook first moves in 

new romantics - @/cupofteaguk Hogwarts!AU

Jeon Jungkook will go down in history as one of the best Quidditch players that ever graced the Hogwarts scene. It seems like he always gets what he wants—his life is very predictable in that sense. What he cannot predict, however, is the newest weekend employee wiping down the tables at the Three Broomsticks.

a cinderella story - @suhdays Modern Cinderella!AU

you are forced to work multiple jobs as you live under your stepmothers roof. unable to move out and strive for complete independence, you do what you can in order save enough. turns out, as a college student that is harder than you thought. so, you distract yourself by joining online chat groups in which you meet a boy that goes to your school. that boy? none other than the rugby star himself, jeon jeongguk. it doesn’t prove to be an issue until he asks to meet you at an upcoming halloween party. he’s never noticed you before so why not hide yourself in order to live your dreams, if only for a moment?

explorer - @1kook Alien!AU

Jungkook does not want to impress the frankly tyrannical ways of his planet on you. He just wants to stay here and keep your couch warm for you, hold your hair back when you wash your face in the morning.

rottenfolk - @junqkook Faerie!AU

a look was as hazardous as chemicals, a kiss as perilous as poison; his eyes and lips felt akin to a cure, but he was purely venom.

the young wolf - @/junqkook Game of Thrones!AU

he was promised to another, meant for another to hold and to love and to kiss. but when his hand lingered on yours for a moment too long to be proper, and when his eyes held yours for a beat too long to be a passing glance, you allowed desire to creep into your veins, to take root inside your heart. perhaps before you might have been permitted to love him freely. perhaps he might have even been promised to you instead. but war was no place for the wants and desires of two people, no matter how much they yearned for it to be.

the lighthouse - @rubycoast S2L!AU

(im not too sure if this is considered fantasy but its one of my favs!)

you and jungkook had one thing in common: you were both lost souls stagnant in the search of some fulfillment. the one of many differences was that your story had been written on your sleeves, while jungkook’s was a story needed to be unriddled.

black magic - @hansolmates​ Magic Uni!AU

a witch with an ambition for learning, you stumble across a crushing spell in the middle of the forbidden section. of course you have to try it out! what happens when the crushing spell not only has jeon jungkook crushing on you, but you crushing on him?

the sea & the storm - @jamaisjoons Fantasy!AU

the sea is a powerful mistress. she is calm and beautiful. she is mysterious and alluring. she is a force to be reckoned with. above all, however, she is lonely. until she meets him. fantasy au.

the lionheart’s oath - @sugaxjpg Knight & Princess!AU

There was no happy ending, no dragon slayer to save the kingdom and get the princess — there was only him: Jungkook. A simple orphan that was lucky enough to be invited into the castle, a former homeless thief that had found shelter in the form of an elysian heir. Now, after twelve years by your side, he was about to lose you to the world you sought to explore.

ghosts just wanna have fun - @/sugaxjpg Psychic & MedSchool!AU

When Jungkook discovered that he could communicate with dead people, the last thing he expected was that they would be there to give him romantic advice.

wartime child - @ktheist Wizard!AU

raising a baby in wartime isn’t easy. but when your baby starts showing signs of magical abilities, you’re forced to ring up the only other person you know he takes after: jeon jungkook.

birth of an empress - @/ktheist Dragon Slayer!AU

partners for three years and friends for longer, jungkook thought you’d remain so until he saw you with the knight at the merchant’s trade.

alternatively, the friendly neighborhood wizard trying to propose to the infamous dragon slayer in the middle of slaying a dragon? now, that’s classic.

series/two shots!

fear in your eyes - @/gukyi Werewolf!AU

(again, idk if werewolves count but hifksdjcx !!!!)

there’s a werewolf in that forest behind your house, they told you, and he’ll eat you before you can even beg for mercy. 

the worshiper series - @/jimlingss 

Long ago, there were gods who resided in Heaven -- existing to watch over and protect the universe. Each of them had their own flaws, trials and tribulations; some which were more sparing than others, but these are their stories...

a promise of freedom - @/jimlingss Wartime!AU

War is cruel and its inhumanity has not spared you. Captured by the enemy, you were brought to the front lines to heal their wounded. But after one night of saving a particular man’s life, he swears to fulfill any wish of yours.

one year, my love - @/hayjeon Historical!AU

You forge a marriage contract with the strangely speaking man who suddenly stumbled into your town with memory loss, but little do you know that he’s actually the lost Crown Prince, and a lot can happen between a married man and woman in one year.

demigod!au drabbles - @/hayjeon

an ask in their inbox regarding the prompt: i have a supernatural au prompt! how bout daughter of hades/loner!reader and son of zeus/bully! jungkook?

into the woods - @/junqkook Goblin!AU

getting hurt and stumbling upon a goblin in the forest leaves you completely at his mercy, though you aren’t sure if that’s necessarily a bad thing.

lionheart - @/junqkook Magic!AU

as a sorcerer, it is of the utmost importance that you keep your magic a secret from everyone. when you become prince jungkook’s servant, it becomes increasingly difficult to keep your identity hidden; especially when you fall in love with him.

a royal exchange - @/hansolmates

she’s the man!au where the princess impersonates her brother yoongi in order to finish his degree on time while yoongi is thrusted into princely duties. jeongguk is in the mess purely through room arrangement

knight!jungkook x princess!reader - @/ktheist

a series with 27 parts!

that’s all i can think of off the top of my head right now :(( not gonna lie, half of these probably don’t even fit into either of those categories and i know there are so so so many amazing fantasy/historical fics out there!! i wish i knew them all but i hope this helped a little bit! if anyone has any fic they’d like to rec, feel free to send it to meee :)

and finallyyyyy i leave my following page open for viewing as well so you can check out all of the authors i follow!! please show all of these authors (and many more) some love! <3

[acciofanfics]

Spell It Out (Oliver Wood x Reader)

Request: could you do an oliver wood x female reader where they’re like friends and she’s really little (like thin and short and she’s insecure abt it by the thinks it’s cute) so he’s like kinda protective over her but she’s oblivious and idk maybe like he gets jealous or something (?) idk u can make the plot but they get together in the end and maybe it’s a lil steamy (?) thanks sm!!! i love ur writing 🥺

Pairing: Oliver Wood x Fem!Reader

Warnings: Heavily implied smut and maybe language? I’ll say language to be safe.

Word Count: 1652

A/N: I hope this is what you wanted! I really struggled with thinking I wrote Oliver too OOC. That being said... I apologize if this is too OOC >.< As always here’s a reminder that requests are still open! - S 

__________________________________________

Oliver Wood took quidditch quite serious, and would never fault anyone else for doing so. His chest swelled with pride when he found his team already on the pitch practicing, before their scheduled time. Maybe it was that they’d be playing Slytherin next week that had them finally taking the game as seriously as he did (they were Gryffindor’s biggest rival). His chest deflated when he saw (Y/N) playing keeper. How could they let her play?!

It wasn’t that he didn’t like (Y/N), they were good friends. Fred and George often said it was quite obvious he fancied her. Maybe, that’s why he had such a problem with it, quidditch could be a dangerous game! Of course it wasn’t against the rules for students not on the quidditch team to play around on the pitch and fly, but it should’ve been... at least for her. His first game on the team he took a Bludger to the head 2 minutes in and was out for a week!

Oliver found himself just watching for a bit; annoyed but distracted, he was fond of her smile and the wind catching her hair. Well, he was fond of it until Fred was hovering beside her, both laughing as her smile grew. Oliver couldn’t hear what they were saying so he had to make it up in his head and he was irritated that Fred had the nerve to suggest such. Oliver was quite glad he heard George yell and break his trance, “MUM’S HERE NO MORE FUN AND GAMES!”

Oliver tried to seem normal, as they all settled down and got ready for practice. He brushed off a friendly greeting from (Y/N) and tried to ignore the thoughts of her all together while she put the broom away. It wasn’t going to be the easiest task, given the fact that she usually settled in the stands to watch them practice.

It was a brutal practice... he had the tendency to do that: take out his frustrations on the pitch. It was pretty obvious that he was having an off day, but the team knew it was best to just suffer through it and hope next practice he would be in a better mood. Poor Fred seemed to get the brunt of the abuse.

(Y/N) was a bit concerned. It’d been awhile since she’d seen Oliver work himself and them this hard and that was after a particularly hard run in with Marcus Flint. (Y/N) just worked on her potions homework and waited for practice to end. It ran longer than usual, and her worry only grew when she didn’t see Oliver exit the locker room with the rest of the guys. She waited a few minutes before deciding to just walk right in.

“Oliver, you still in here?”

Oliver’s eyes widened at her intrusion, he’d just gotten out of the showers and wore only a towel around his waist, “Bloody hell, (Y/N)! Just barge right on in, will ya?”

She rolled her eyes at his tone. “What’s wrong with you today?”

He thought about responding with a simple: nothing, but they knew each other too well for that. It wouldn’t work. “Why were you out there playing today?”

“Is that what you’re mad about? We were just messing around, practice hadn’t even started yet. It was just a warm up.”

“Yeah, but you shouldn’t have been warming up with them.” Oliver approached her and as he sized her up, he really didn’t feel like he was being silly. She stood a good head or two (maybe three) shorter than him, and all around the girl was just tiny. A good gust of wind could’ve knocked her right off that broom, “You could’ve gotten hurt.”

(Y/N) was used to this, but that didn’t make it any less frustrating. She wasn’t a child, even though everyone seemed to think she was. It was rather disheartening actually to be treated like this by him... she wondered if she was a bit taller and a little more filled out if this was the conversation they’d be having while he stood before her basically naked. “Oh, sorry. I thought something was actually wrong, I wouldn’t have bothered had I known you were just being a git. It’s not different than you playing! You could get hurt, in fact out of the 2 of us you’re the one with more quidditch related injuries.”

Oliver ignored her, they wouldn’t reach an agreement on the subject anyhow. He decided to go in on something else bothering him, “What are you doing here anyways? I figured you’d be back in the common room with Fred or whatever.”

Fred? He was two years younger than her (granted you definitely wouldn’t realize that by looking at them) and sure he flirted with her. It was Fred, he was flirty and goofy. It was the boy’s personality and had nothing to do with anything. “Honestly, Oliver you are too much sometimes! You’re going to act like I’m a child and then turn around and act jealous in the same breath?”

Did she really think he viewed her as a child? That wasn’t it at all. Maybe he needed to get over himself and finally come clean. “I don’t look at you like you’re a kid... and you call me thick.”

“Okay,” Sarcasm dripped from her tongue, “You act like I can’t do anything for myself, you’re mean to any guy that pays me any mind, you hardly let me carry my books for myself!”

“And there’s no other explanation for that?” Oliver’s eyes widened in disbelief when she didn’t speak up. He’d called her thick as a joke, but maybe... “Oi! Just make me spell it out, why don’t you? I fancy you, (Y/N)!”

Oliver Wood just confessed attraction to her. Was it some sort of joke? (Y/N) obviously had a crush on him, plenty of girls in their year did. She felt a little silly for being so oblivious, but most guys adopted her as a little sister of sorts. She’d had a few boyfriends here and there, but it wasn’t like they were lining up for her. And there she stood shocked and confused, “If this is a joke it’s not very funny.”

Oliver chuckled at the girl, she was still there so that must’ve been a good sign. “I’m not joking.”

“Why would fancy me? You guys said I looked like a first year yesterday.” She crossed her arms. Of course she wanted Oliver to like her, but something didn’t seem to add up.

“That one was a joke! And I didn’t say anything I just laughed,” He defended himself, but he supposed that didn’t make him sound much better. “I like your size... I think it’s cute.”

Honestly, (Y/N) had grown tired of being called ‘cute’, but she didn’t mind it that much when he said it. There was only one logical response to this in her mind (although there probably were a few more ways in all actuality). She grabbed his hand and pulled him closer to one of the benches where she promptly stood on top of one. Oliver smiled a bit, catching onto her plan, "You know you could've just asked me and I would-"

(Y/N) cut him off, he was being annoying anyhow. Her lips crashed against his and Oliver immediately a wave of relief crash over him. The doubt that had still lingered in his mind was long gone and all that he could focus on was what happening. He'd held the desire to kiss the girl in front of him for so long and now that he could feel her lips against his, he didn't want to feel anything else.

(Y/N) placed her hands on his chest, firm and still damp (up until that moment she'd somehow forgotten about the lack of clothing he was wearing). She knew this was highly inapproptiate and if McGonagall had any idea what her two students were currently up to she'd have their heads.... or at least a month of detention and quite a few house points. Call it teenage rebellion or maybe just lust, but it only fueled the desire to keep going. Oliver felt the same and pulled her flush against him, his hands felt so large against her clothed body that she shuddered to think what they might feel like against her skin.

For a first kiss, it was quite efficient, their mouths moved in tandom like they like dance partners that had been working together for years. Before she even really aware of what she was doing, (Y/N) found herself shedding her clothes (Oliver helping her out), it wasn't long at all before she'd practically caught up with the boy. She stood before him in nothing but her knickers, and perhaps she might've felt a little embarrassed baring herself in front of one of her closest friends, but Oliver didn't give her much of chance to even think those silly thoughts before his hands and lips were exploring her body.

How they’d gone all this time without each other seemed like a mystery that couldn’t be solved at the moment. Oliver lifted her up, a task easily accomplished given her stature and his training, and instinctively (Y/N) wrapped herself around searching for stability that she easily found. She arched herself into him involuntarily when her back hit the cold wall; the action earning a groan from Oliver.

Fred and George waited and watched from behind the stands. When (Y/N) and Oliver both exited the locker room hand in hand and foolish grins on their faces, their faces lit up. Oh the material they’d have to torment them! Honestly they hoped the couple wouldn’t even bother trying to deny it, they didn’t seem to bother trying to cover it up, or at least the twins assumed by the state of their hair. “Georgie, you owe me a galleon!”

[queenxxxsupreme]

Hello, there. I hope you're feeling better. I saw your post about wanting soft Eskel blurbs and I would love to read goat dad tending to a field of goats. Like tooth rotting, diabetes inducing fluff. The fluffiest of fluff.

A/N: I hope you like this babe!!

***

One of the goats bleated loudly, catching Eskel’s attention. He looked up from the fence he was working on to see Gus, one of the kids you’d taken in over the summer, standing a little ways away from the herd that lingered near the witcher. 

Usually Gus didn’t stray far from Gertie, a brown calf, and Gus’s best friend. Gertie served as Gus’s eyes since the baby goat was born blind. 

“Gus? What are you doing?”

Gus bleated loudly, panicked that he didn’t know where his friends were. 

Lil Bleater made herself known, trotting to Eskel’s side and butting her head against his knees. 

“That’s rude.” Eskel patted her head, then went to Gus. 

The kid bleated again just as the witcher was scooping him up. 

Eskel placed Gus down by Gertie, then returned to the fence post he was fixing. Before he went back to work, he looked around to do a quick headcount of all the animals. There were three baby goats, Gus, Bastion, and Junior; one adult goat, Lil Bleater; two stallions, Ghost and Scorpion; Willow, a donkey; and Gertie, a calf. 

He smiled a little, content that no one had wandered off. 

Willow suddenly brayed, her ears pressing flat against her head. She was warning Eskel- and anyone else within hearing range -that someone was approaching the house. 

Eskel could hear it too, the sound of hooves on dirt. He almost panicked. There was more than one horse, more than one rider. No one ever came down the dirt road that led to your home. It was a deadend. There was no reason for strangers to stray that way. But then the witcher heard a familiar voice. It was his brother, Lambert, and Geralt was with him. 

Eskel began to move down the hill towards the house. The fence prevented Willow from charging the two intruders. She brayed as loud as she could until Eskel patted her flank. 

“Easy, girl.”

Her ears remained down against her head but she no longer brayed. 

Eskel watched as the two witchers came to a stop just a few feet away in front of the fence. 

“Look at you.” Lambert grinned. “The first ever retired witcher became a farmer.”

“I’m not retired.”

“Not yet.” Geralt got down from Roach first. 

Eskel easily scaled the fence and jumped down on the other side. It was easier than going to the gate and trying to squeeze out without letting one of the kids out. 

“Good to see you, brother.” The White Wolf tightly hugged Eskel, clapping him on the back.

“How did you find me?” Eskel asked as he pulled away from Geralt and moved on to Lambert. 

“Someone saw us in town. Asked if we were looking for another witcher.” Lambert explained. “Thought we’d swing by and give you some hell for retiring.”

Eskel smiled a little, happy to see that his little brother hadn’t changed in the years since they last saw each other. 

“Is that Lil Bleater?” Lambert asked, pointing at the old goat and moving towards the fence. He leaned over it, reaching down to pet Lil Bleater’s head. 

“Sure is.”

“Damn.” 

As Lambert was petting Lil Bleater, one of the kids, Junior, bleated and tried to headbutt Lambert’s hand. When that didn’t get the witcher’s attention, Junior resorted to biting at Lambert’s fingers. 

“Ouch! You little shit!”

“Lambert, meet Lambert Junior.” Eskel grinned, leaning against the fence. “We call him Junior.”

“Little bastard.” Lambert muttered, scowling at the kid as he bleated again. 

“We?” Geralt repeated, crooking one brow. 

Eskel brought his eyes to the witcher, nodding just a little. A faint smile came to his lips. 

“I’ve got someone I want you to meet. Both of you. Follow me.”

***

The three witchers walked across the large green yard that separated the field from the quaint little stone cottage that rested in the edge of the woods. 

“Take your boots off before you walk too far in.” Eskel told them as he pushed the door open. 

“Take our boots off?” Lambert repeated, scrunching his nose up. “I don’t take my boots off for anyone.”

“Take your boots off, or you’ll be the one cleaning the floor.” There was a teasing tone to Eskel’s threat. 

Lambert muttered a few curse words under his breath but did as told. 

“How’d you come across this place?” Geralt asked, looking around the small room curiously.

“There was a cockatrice problem. Three of them took to the town. Managed to take them down, but got a few new scars from them.” Eskel pulled his shirt up to reveal his side. Cutting across his side from his hip to his ribs was a thick, jagged scar. It was much paler than his sun kissed skin. He started to lead the way down a narrow hallway. “Heard the healer in town was exceptional.”

“Eskel? Who is it you’re talking….” You trailed off as Eskel came around the corner with the two men behind him. You stopped in your tracks, lips parting as you took in the sight of the two intimidating men. The dark haired one was lean, but still tall and muscular. The white haired one seemed to be built very similar to Eskel. Broad shoulders, thick muscles. 

“Y/N, these are my brothers.” Eskel gestured to each witcher as he introduced them. “Geralt and Lambert.”

A fond smile came to your lips. You put the rag in your hands down and moved towards them. 

“It’s so lovely to finally meet you gentlemen!” You didn’t shy away from hugging both men. 

Lambert’s eyes widened and he looked to Eskel for help as you wrapped your arms around him. 

“Y/N saved my life two years ago.” Eskel leaned against the counter and crossed his arms. “Had to stay here for a couple weeks to get better. By then, I didn’t want to leave.”

“You make it sound like I kidnapped you.” You pulled away from Geralt and then moved towards your witcher. You put your hand on his arm, smiling happily. 

“What are you making?” Eskel looked over to the pot hanging over the fire. It smelled like something was burning. 

You cursed and moved over to the pot, stirring the soup. 

“Will you boys be staying for dinner?” You looked back at the two witchers. 

Geralt and Lambert shared a little look, then looked to Eskel. Lambert crossed his arms, shifting in his spot. Eskel nodded once to Geralt’s silent question, telling him you were trustworthy. 

“We’d love to stay.” Geralt answered, bumping his shoulder against Lambert’s. “Wouldn’t we, Lambert?” 

“I’m always down for free food.” 

***

After dinner, the sun had gone down and you insisted Geralt and Lambert stay for the night. 

Eskel took his brothers outside to round up the animals and put their horses in the barn with yours and Eskel’s.

You worked on cleaning the kitchen, humming softly and moving around.

“Doll, I told you I’d help you clean when I came back.” Eskel spoke as he walked into the kitchen.

“I can get it.” You assured him. “Where are they?”

“Still outside. They’re discussing plans for tomorrow.” Eskel moved around behind you. You turned your head to watch himm, a smile coming to your lips. His arms snaked around your waist, pulling you back into his body. “Junior has taken quite a liking to Lambert.”

“Oh really?”

“Yeah. Keeps trying to eat his boots.”

You laughed, leaning back into Eskel. 

He nuzzled his nose into your neck, eyes closing as he let out a soft breath. 

“Thank you.” He murmured against your skin, tickling you just a little. 

“For what?”

“For being so…. welcoming to them.”

You turned around in his arms, hands brushing up along his forearms. 

“They’re your brothers, Eskel. I’d treat them no different than how you treat my sister.”

“But it’s…. It’s different with us.” He spoke quietly, eyes flickering down.

You brought your hand to his jaw, fingertips brushing along the side of his face. You pushed a few stray pieces of hair behind his ear.

“I know it is.” You gently said. “And I’m so sorry it is.”

He pulled your hand from his face and pressed a kiss to your palm. 

“I love you.”

“I know.” You smiled. “I love you.”

He leaned in to kiss you but just before your lips could touch, he was pulling away and cursing under his breath.

“What’s wrong?” You asked, brows drawing together as you watched him move towards the front door. 

“Willow is chasing Lambert.”

Taglist: @pressedinthepages @mishafaye @whitewolfandthefox@wolfyland07 @belalugosisdead @persephonehemingway @keira-hulmaster @dinonuggs69 @greatestauthorofmygeneration@shadow-hunters-lover @dancingwith-thesunflowers @tedi-fach-las @thecomfortofoldstorries @raspberrydreamclouds @natkowaa@disasteren @weathervanes-my-oneandlonely @onlyhenrys@wackylurker @criminaly-supernatural @magpie343@permanently-exhausted-witcher @hina-chans-stuff @the-space-between-heartbeats @havenoffandoms @carriebee1 @ger-bearofrivia @naominami @writingawaymylife@reaganjenelle@theawkwardpedestrian @scarlettwitcher@badassspaceprincess @just-a-sad-donut @summersong69 @an–actual–human–disaster@rubyqueen819 @omgkatinka @c-a-v-a-l-r-y @vonxcon @mazakeen @bravelittlesunflower @thereagles@awkward-turtles-world @menalliha @cotton_mo @maan24 @she-wolfoftheinquisition @titaniafire

[twoidiotwriters1]

June, 1976 (WITT One-Shot)

A/N: If you want to remain in the taglist pls interact with this one-shot even if you haven’t read book 4-5 yet. A like or a comment is fine, the people who don’t want to continue reading obvsly do not interact and I’ll delete from the taglist :) -Danny

Words: 2,590

Series’ Masterlist

Emily was tired, but she'd spent all day overthinking and she was done, it was time to grow up.

She could hear Lily Evans' voice ushering Severus Snape away, he'd been coming around for several hours during the day trying to apologize, but he'd finally crossed a line.

"It's not your fault, you know?"

Matthew's voice caught her attention, he'd stopped at the foot of the stairs, one hand propped on the wall.

"Snape and Evans have been fighting for months now, I think it's because of what he's been doing with the Slytherins... you know, the cult stuff."

Emily averted her gaze to the fireplace.

"I know..."

Matthew hesitated, he'd promised himself that he wouldn't go back to being Emily's therapist, but something was different this time, it wasn't her usual kind of sulking.

"Are you okay?"

She looked at him over her shoulder and frowned.

"I'm not the one who got called 'mudblood' by a close friend."

"No, you weren't," He admitted. "Which is why it's so strange to see you all sad."

"I'm not sad."

"Is this about James?"

He didn't want to know, but alas, he'd asked.

"No," She made a face. "I don't think I care about him that way anymore."

"It's easier said than done," Matthew crossed his arms, his shoulder now leaning on the archway of the stairs.

"What do you want, Ruddy?" Emily groaned.

"I don't want anything from you," The boy replied. "But I have the feeling that you need to talk."

"I do," She said. "Not with you, though."

Matt nodded, he sighed.

"Good luck, then, have a good night."

"'Night."

Emily watched him disappear up the stairs, she didn't know why, but the memory of his burning gaze before he kissed her came back then, his intense determination as he held her closer... That moment Emily had found herself unable to move away, to say no. She wished she had his courage to just do stuff even when he was intimidated by them, she needed that kind of bravery tonight.

Lily Evans entered the tower two minutes later, Emily stood up abruptly and the redhead came to a halt.

For a moment none of them spoke, then Lily's face showed tons of fatigue.

"What now? Is it your turn to call me a stuck-up bore because I didn't agree to go out with Potter?"

Emily shifted her weight from one foot to the other.

"Can we talk?" She asked shyly. "I promise it's not a trick... I'm sorry."

Emily's behaviour towards her was usually hostile, tonight her voice was gentle, and even a little afraid.

"You're sorry?"

"I don't expect you to believe me," Emily continued, lowering her gaze. "I know you and Snape were close — I don't understand how can you like him... listen I suck at apologies, can't you just say it's alright so we can go to bed?"

Lily crossed her arms, standing straighter.

"No, I think I want you to try harder."

Emily groaned, she sat down heavily and started to think her words carefully, Lily inched closer.

"Boys can be cruel when they're not thinking — Anyone, really... I've been brutal myself — Matthew and I almost stopped being friends a few months ago, because I don't like talking about my feelings," She laughed dryly. "I don't know what is it about today that it just... I don't want to be a tormentor my whole life, let alone to someone who is... tolerable. I'm sorry for making your life a living hell these past few years."

Lily sat down, although she kept the seat between them empty to keep some distance.

"You didn't make my life a living hell," She replied. "I... can admit you're a bit clever... even likeable — that last match when you threw Lewis a bludger after he called you a midget... it was kind of funny."

"The boys walked me everywhere that week, they thought Ernest was going to try and get back at me," Emily bit her lip, but she was now smiling. "I mean, I lived in fear for days! Thinking he would spike my drink at some point with poison or something... Until Matthew cornered him outside D.A.D.A. class one day, poor Lewis... he looked so small in comparison..."

"Anyone looks small next to Matthew, he's a giant," Lily grinned. "Well, if it's any consolation, I was planning on murdering you in a much classier manner than poison, but since you've apologized, I guess I won't have to kill you after all."

Emily snorted, her eyes lingered on Lily, who looked like she'd been crying for most of the day, and yet still had enough energy to sit down and talk with the girl she'd detested for the last four years.

"Why are you being nice?" She asked in annoyance. "I mean I'm glad you're kind of accepting my apology, but I thought you'd be a bit colder, walking away before I could even finish..."

"What kind of person do you think I am?" Lily raised a brow, with the orange light coming from the fireplace her green eyes looked far more intense than usual. "If I'm honest, you should thank Remus... he's tried to convince me that you lot are far better than you look..."

Emily sighed, when she was young she'd do mischief for fun, but now that she was older, and considering all the weird stuff that was happening outside the school, she was starting to think that maybe her group of friends were indeed changing for the best.

"I'm going to be honest with you too, Evans," The girl took a deep breath. "Being the only girl in my friend group is turning out to be pure torture. I'm in desperate need of a girlfriend."

Lily's mouth twitched a bit, but she didn't laugh.

"What makes you think I want to be your friend?"

"Oh, I don't think you want to," She raised a brow. "But maybe if we're on good terms I'd be able to ask you for a tampon without having to swallow my pride first."

Lily did laugh at this, she shook her head. "Holy Merlin, Sultens, you're loopy."

"You would be too if you were seated next to Sirius every day!" She paused. "So... are you willing to make peace?"

Lily examined her carefully, four long years of quarrels sat between them, but a lifetime of friendship could be ahead if Emily was truly sorry. She was a nice girl, and really smart too, she was annoying only when she was taunting Severus, and he was no longer her friend.

Lily stretched out her hand.

"Very well, but if you go back the deal is over and we'll be less than strangers, understood?"

"Sure."

She retreated her hand before Emily could grab it.

"Hang on — this is not Potter's idea, right? You're not trying to be my friend just so I date him later?"

"Lily, if anything I hope you and James never date," Emily snickered. "Nothing personal, you're just way too good for him."

"...Alright."

They shook hands, she'd meant what she said about it not being personal. James was a boy, a very silly one at that, and even though they were really close friends, Emily was no longer a blind supporter of his doings.

Funnily enough, this seemed to be related to Matthew, she couldn't stop thinking about that kiss! Merlin, he was a good kisser...

She shook the thought away, now was not the time for nonsense.

"I'm very honoured to be your acquaintance, Evans," Emily grinned.

"Call me Lily. Only Professors call me Evans... and Potter, but you know I hate that."

"Got it, Lils."

July 1996

"...I don't think this is right," Mel tilted her head. "Brownies are mean to be brown... not pitch-black."

"You burned them," Harry was standing behind them with his arms crossed, clearly upset.

"How could you burn them, Erick? They were in there for five minutes!"

"Are you sure..." Erick stabbed the mixture with a knife and made a face. "Ugh — they're still liquid in the middle!"

"How the fuck did you do this?"

"I thought it would work just the same if I doubled the heat and put less time," Erick sulked. "Ovens are weird."

"This is why we told you to stay out of it," Harry replied. "You don't know how muggle stuff work."

"I do know!"

"Then why did you burn the brownies?"

"Don't fight," Mel intervened, grabbing the platter and throwing its contents away. "Oh well, at least we ruined my birthday cake and not someone else's..."

"That's not okay," Harry frowned. "You should have a proper cake."

Mel looked at him and grinned. "I'll eat yours, then."

"How's everything going in here?" Emily walked in, behind her Lupin followed.

"Uncle Lu!" Mel rushed over to his side and hugged him, the man chuckled. "You came!"

"Well, hadn't been around for your birthday in a long time, I thought you'd like it," He said, lovingly patting her back.

"I do," She beamed. "We kind of ruined the cake, though, so we should buy doughnuts or something."

"It's a good thing I brought this, then," Lupin lifted his bag and placed it on the table, inside there was a beautifully adorned red velvet cake.

"You just saved my birthday!"

Harry and Erick shared a moody expression and grumbled complaints, Lupin laughed.

"The kids insisted on doing the cakes this year," Emily explained. "I told them it was not an easy job, but they insisted."

"Mel and I have done this before, Erick was the one who wanted to be in charge when he can't even make tea without magic," Harry glared at him.

"Muggles stuff are too complicated, alright?" He huffed.

"I don't mind," Mel said without paying attention to them, she was still beyond happy with her uncle's presence. "I wanted to give my mum a break, Leggie's been a bit hard to handle lately..."

"Is he?" Lupin looked at the little boy Emily was holding. "Is he ill?"

"No, he just cries a lot," The woman sighed. "Wakes us up every night."

"I thought that forcing my mother to bake when she's clearly too tired to be doing anything apart from feeding a baby was a crime," Mel stated. "So I took care of it."

"Then Flint messed it up," Harry taunted.

"And then you fixed it, Uncle Moony," The girl smiled. "So there's no harm done, right boys?"

She looked over her shoulder, raising a brow as if urging them to stop bickering before they embarrassed her in front of Lupin. Both mumbled their agreement, not quite meeting her eyes.

"Lovely," Mel looked back at the adults. "Who wants lunch?"

Mel and Erick were in the kitchen talking in hurried whispers, she appeared to be upset, the young man too. Emily and Remus were in the drawing-room, Harry was upstairs changing Reg's diaper.

"Do you know why they're arguing?" Remus asked, staring at the pair.

"Dumbledore came by this morning before breakfast," Emily sighed, leaning her head back on the couch. "Talked about this mission he had for Erick — you know how eager to help that boy is... so of course the old man came and put his offer on a silver platter, and Mel won't let Erick go on his own, so being the generous soul Dumbledore is," She said sarcastically, "He said she could go too if she wanted to."

"Really?" Remus frowned. "Well... he's been giving her lessons for years, Mily, perhaps he knows she can handle it."

"I don't care," She said bluntly. "That's my daughter, my daughter. Matt's daughter. How can he continue to risk my family's life like it's nothing?"

"You know Matthew did all he that because he wanted to, Dumbledore had nothing to do with his decisions."

"I know," Emily took a deep breath. "But he's got a lot to do with Mel's... she idolizes him."

"You think so?" The man looked over his shoulder again, staring at his goddaughter.

"I don't see why else she'd be so keen to follow his orders..."

"Maybe because she feels guilty?" Remus offered. "After what happened in the ministry..."

Emily pressed her lips together, she didn't want to talk about that.

"That's not her fault and she knows it. I told her it wasn't."

"You weren't there," He said gravely. "She went out of control. I had never seen anything like it, her magic was dark— I mean that literally. All the spells she did came out pitch-black. Dumbledore was the only one who could put a stop to it."

Emily's eyes grew worried, she looked over her shoulder as well and her gaze landed on Mel.

"You think it could be the same thing that Ariana Dumbledore had? That disease?"

"No one knows what happened to her," Remus said. "Not even Matthew knew, and he was part of the family... but it could be. Maybe Dumbledore knows something we don't, maybe this will help her... perhaps she needs this."

Emily stayed silent for a moment, then she groaned.

"I hate that we're always meant to trust him blindly."

"He's lived a hundred years, he might be wiser than all of us, don't you think?"

The woman scoffed, she looked ahead, deep in thought.

"A hundred years... Matthew couldn't even make it to twenty-one! James and Lily barely did... Sirius spent twelve years in Azkaban — But at least we all knew how the war looked like then, Remus. We fought for years... my daughter just turned sixteen, she still goes to school!"

"And yet she's already done her fair amount of fighting," The man raised a brow. "We didn't have the experiences she's gone through when we were her age. I stand with Dumbledore, she can do this."

"I'm not saying she can't," Emily grabbed the empty plates to take them to the kitchen. "I'm saying she shouldn't have to sacrifice her youth. Dumbledore asks for too much, I'm sure he's got someone else that could help him with the mission, but he's obsessed with making Mel his perfect copy."

Remus didn't try to argue back, little could convince Emily at this point, she'd never been a fan of Dumbledore, and after Matt's death it was no secret that she openly disliked him, but she still followed his orders, because she knew Dumbledore was the only chance they had to win this war.

Mel and Erick entered the room, neither of them angry, which made Remus think they had reached an agreement.

"I should leave," The man stood up. "Leon's been quiet, maybe Harry managed to make him sleep."

"Or maybe he's just playing with him," Emily stood up as well. "Really, I never thought Harry would get so attached to a baby..."

"I'll miss you, Uncle Lu, I hope to see you soon," Mel said, her eyes avoiding to look into Erick's direction.

"Me too, little Em," Remus hugged her tightly, he whispered in her ear. "Be good to your mother, alright?"

Mel looked at him with confusion, but she nodded anyway.

"So?" Emily crossed her arms. "What are you going to do?"

The young witch stared at her mother, Remus knew that expression. It was true and very strange, how she could have her dad's gaze even though her eyes were exactly like her mother's, but he knew that look, he'd seen it in Matt the last time they had spoken. Mel was done being a kid.

Taglist.

@dee123ksha @vampiregirl1797 @siriuslysirius1107 @stardusthigh @mikariell95 @vernon-dursley @thesuitelifeofafangirl @tomshollandz @wlwmaximoff @reverse-hxlland @omiwashere @t-rexs-world @just-here-to-escape-from-reality @21bruhs @i-am-scared-and-useless-bisexual @dielgonacoffee​ @thelastpyle @hamiltonwc

[exquisitley-obsessed]

I’m Right Here (part 1?)

Author: @exquisitley-obsessed

Summary: Arthur’s torn up over Mary, and his old friend and fellow gang member y/n drags his pitiful ass on a hunting trip; little do they know, they’re the ones about to be hunted.

Word Count: 3588

Pairings: Arthur Morgan x Reader (some Arthur and Mary angst)

Warnings: Hunting, guns, etc.

A/N: Currently playing RDR2 so please no spoilers <3 Literally took five minutes for me to fall in love with this damn fool and so felt like I needed to write something angsty for him. There’ll probably be a part two to this. (Also this made me seriously realise I cannot spell ‘Arthur’ for the life of me)

REQUESTS OPEN <3

MASTERLIST

“Well he aint in a good mood.”

Abigail was standing near her tent blowing gently on her boiling coffee as she watched Arthur swing into camp, readily jumping off his horse and loosely throwing the reigns towards the hitching post.

“No, he don’t,” Y/n answered. She was sitting with Jack in her lap, watching as Arthur made his way to his tent, cursing venomously under his breath. “I overheard Dutch mention something about Mary being in Valentine - that she wanted to see him.” Y/n shared the gossip with her long-time best friend and fellow gang member.

“Really?” Abigail’s head snapped to y/n as she busied herself with Jack’s excited giggling and blubbering. “She’s got some nerve.”

“Ha!” Y/n chuckled to herself as she bounced Jack about, “You can say that again.”

“It aint a secret that none of us like her,”

“Yeah, someone that even Hosea isn’t a fan of…now that’s an accomplishment.”

“He knows how to pick ‘em,”

“Sure does,” y/n sighed, throwing a glance at Morgan. Watching Arthur and Mary run back and forth to one another was like watching a dog chase its tail – futile, funny and somewhat depressing. With there being such a tight knit in the Van Der Linde gang, Mary had always felt alien and other – like she was a piece that didn’t quite fit in a rather strange and elaborate puzzle. Y/n’s bitterness towards the woman had only grown as she watched Arthur yo-yo between complete euphoria one night to a mild mental break the next; ultimately, it hurt watching him day in and day out tie himself to the train tracks and look with woozy, loving eyes at the incoming train.

“When was the last time you talked to him?” Abigail attempted to ask inconspicuously, dipping her nose into her mug as she took a swig. Y/n eyed her, Abigail had made it somewhat obviously clear she believed there to be something more between Arthur and y/n; y/n couldn’t figure out if she was amused or conflicted.

“Not since before this Blackwater mess…not a proper conversation like we used to have.” Y/n’s attention now back on the bubbling child pulling at her braid.

“Not had the chance?”

“Well, no.” She didn’t look at Abigail, “Everything blew up and…Dutch aint been letting me out on any of missions recently so I can’t talk to him then. Not with how badly things went for me in Blackwater.” Y/n was talking about her bandaged right arm, still pink and puckering from that night. When the pandemonium erupted on the waters, y/n found herself caught in a minor explosion when some TNT barrels were caught in the crossfire. The result was a degree of burns lashed across most of her right arm. Dutch, seeing her like a daughter, reacted in a rather extreme and protective manner – extreme by y/n’s standards at least.

“It’s a goddamn joke you know, I have to prove myself to be twice as better just to be even considered to go on missions. They all treat me like I’m gone break or something – I been shooting longer than most of them too.” Abigail nodded along hazily; the gang was somewhat used to y/n’s frequent outbursts and rants, having never been one much for holding her tongue. However, they couldn’t blame here; it was just a result of her start in life.

“Now’s a good time y/n - go take him hunting or something,” Abigail was still peering at Arthur over her mug.

“Hunting?”

“Yeah, you can get some fresh air, help him clear his head and also bring back something Pearson could turn edible.”

“Dutch aint letting me leave camp right now-”

“Oh, come on! You know he’d let you go if Arthur was with you”

“Abi-”

“Don’t fight me on this y/n. He’s hurting, it’s obvious, you’re the only one he’s ever…you know…” Y/n raised a brow at Abigail who simply looked away; she couldn’t figure out what she hated more, the assumptions or the fact that y/n’s heart twinged slightly at the thought of going hunting with Arthur, it being just like old times.

“Fine,” Y/n huffed scooping Jack up under the arm, “Here’s your son back.” Jack’s chubby little fingers reached out for his momma as his aunt handed him over, “But I’m doing this for you.”

“And Arthur,”

“And Arthur.” Letting out a sigh, y/n made her way over to the closed flaps of Arthur’s tent, picking up her hunting jacket along the way. Pausing, she took a breath, before rapping her knuckles across the wooden frame of his camp. “Arthur it’s me.” A pause, a small rustle from within and then he was there, looking down at y/n with a raised brow.

“Miss y/n,” He tried out the words in his mouth, as if her name was a question in itself, “What you doing here?”

“Oh, so I can’t just come and see Mr Morgan whenever I please…is there a queue I need to join?” She feigned looking around.

“Oh, don’t give me that – you know you aint come knocking on my tent for weeks now.”

“Well Arthur, I don’t know if you remember but there was that whole business of Blackwater that somewhat got in the way of our nightly strolls.” Arthur pulled back a little, his brows knitting as he frowned down at her.

“What’s going on y/n? What you want?”

“You really think every time I come see you I want something…I mean, actually now that you say-”

“Y/n-”

“I’m kidding, I’m kidding, Morgan! Come on,” She smirked up at him, he shook and lowered his head, his russet hat covering his face leaving only his strong set jaw and bristly beard visible in the candlelight. A grin had melted into his cheeks and y/n couldn’t help but feel a soft flutter in her gut, he was heartbroken over Mary and yet she could still make him to smile. “I was actually letting you know that I’m going hunting, I thought you might wanna join y’know, ride out like old times,”

“Dutch letting you go?” He asked, leaning against the wagon. She rolled her eyes.

“Oh please; Dutch this, Dutch that. Can’t a girl just live?”

“I don’t know y/n, you banged yourself up real good at Blackwater if I remember correctly,” He nodded at her mummified arm.

“I’m fine, besides, it aint my shooting arm,”

“Y/n…” He sighed.

“Come on…fine. If I can convince Dutch to let me go, will you join me? We’ll take the camp and really do it like old times, stay out all night and catch birds as the sun rises.” Arthur gave her a look as if he was on the fence, but that usually already meant he was coming. Y/n didn’t even wait for a response, just smiled real wide and started walking backwards toward Dutch, “Saddle up and meet me by the horses in 10.” Arthur just shook his head and batted her away, disappearing back inside.

Turning around, y/n tiptoed her way past Dutch’s own quarters, peeking in slightly she caught the sight of him in deep discussion with Hosea. Well, there’s no point in disturbing what seems like such an important conversation. Instead, y/n chose to make her way back to Abigail where she could quickly grab a few things before setting off.

“So, you going then?” Abigail grinned up at her, already knowing the answer.

“Yup,”

“Oh good,” Abigail clapped her hands together. Y/n simply rolled her eyes, but she was smiling. “You tell Dutch?”

“Um, not quite,”

“What do you mean?” Abigail raised a brow, always the ever-worried mother.

“Come on Abigail, you know Dutch won’t let me out, especially not for a whole night.”

“Course he will, you’re with Arthur,”

“No Abi, I don’t think he will,” Y/n paused her packing and met Abigail’s stare.

“What do you mean?” Her tone was tense.

“Look, Dutch has been treating me real weird since Blackwater, he won’t let me out of his sight. He won’t even let me do watch, no, I stay here in camp where he can see me and do chores. Which would be fine, but we all know that I’m much better out there, in the big wide world.” Y/n returned to packing, “He’s just got spooked from Blackwater a lil and you know how he sees me, he raised me and all.”

“So…what’s your plan?”

“Well…I guess I don’t have one.” Abigail let out a frustrated huff, “Look, don’t be mad! It aint your fault and I can handle Dutch when I get back. I thought tonight I’d focus on Arthur, wasn’t that your plan, come on now Abi.” Abigail simply responded with one of her infamous motherly glares, hands on hips and everything.

“Okay, but it’s getting dark so you best head off now before you loose your way, and y/n…” Bag now packed, y/n was half way out of the tent when she stopped, “Be careful…”

Y/n grinned back.

“Always am.”

 ***

“So, where you wanna go?”

Arthur and y/n had ridden their way out into the fields, far away from any signs of life or civilisation. Free at last. “Since you’re in such a sour mood I’ll let you choose.” Arthur sent her a glare.

“You know, you talking about how sour my mood is…aint making it any less sour.”

“Why are you in a sour mood anyways?” Y/n peeked at him from the corner of her eyes. Their horses had slowed into a rhythmic trot as the flowers and fields passed them by.

“Mary.” It was a gruff, clipped response; but it was enough. Arthur never needed to elaborate on his problems with Mary, it was common knowledge amongst the gang. Hell, it was obvious from day one what was going to eventually happen between the two. “Here, let’s stop here.”

“I’m sorry to hear bout it,” Y/n pulled her horse to a steady stop as they strolled onto a circular ledge, looking out on a cliff drop and the rolling hills that followed, the greenery not stopping until it blurred into the horizon.

“Are you?” Arthur said after a moment, his eyes busy assessing the terrain.

“Arthur,” Y/n snapped to him as if he had hit her, “You know I do.” The two stared at each other, a standoff, then he seemed to soften a little.

“Yeah, yeah I know you do y/n don’t worry. Don’t know what got into me. She’s messing with my head is all.”

“You can say that again,” y/n turned back to her horse, unpacking all the bits and bobs. She began to get a fire going, the crackling flames warming her back as she moved to stand near the ledge, looking out at all the little people and all their little lives.

“Wait stay still a second,” Arthur called out to y/n who of course, didn’t.

“What you doing?” She questioned walking over to him as he fumbled about in his satchel.

“I said stay still woman…almost got it…here.” He pulled out a small, metal box with a look of triumph. “Now,” He instructed holding it up to his face, “Go back to where you were standing.”

“Okay,” Y/n agreed cautiously, walking backwards a few paces, “Here? Wait…you’re not taking a photo of me are you Arthur?”

“What?” He asked, looking up and shrugging his shoulders as if there were no problem.

“Oh Arthur, I don’t want no photos of me taken,”

“Why?”

“Because…” She trailed off. It had been so long since someone had offered to take a photo of her. When it happened, she had venomously refused, spitting out something about keeping her identity secret. But now, looking at Arthur’s innocent smile as he gestured toward the camera, all ideas of protesting against the photo seemed futile. “Oh, all right then, but if I look real bad promise me we’ll burn it on the fire.”

Arthur said nothing, simply smiled wide before holding the camera up to his face once more. Suddenly, she felt incredibly self-conscious of her appearance, her hair was lazily knotted in a braid to keep it away from her face, she was wearing her old work pants and one of John’s old shirts that he had grown out of. She wondered if he thought she was pretty, she wondered if that’s why he wanted a photo of her – she pushed those thoughts away and swallowed. A quick flash, mechanic clunk and it was over.

“Lemme see, lemme see!” Y/n bounded over to Arthur, reaching out for the camera but Arthur swept it out of her grasp holding it high above her head.

“Just wait woman! God…gotta let it develop first then you can see, and then burn it,”

“I was kidding Arthur! You want a photo of me so bad I’ll let you have one – but it’s the only one you getting so you better cherish it.”

“Oh, I will,” He sighed, turning back to the camp and the fire, “I will.” He muttered once more under his breath, his eyes glossy and happy as he carefully rested the camera near his bag.

“Come on, we best settle down,” Y/n sighed, her fingers resting near her gun. The two hunched down together near the edge of the cliff, their feet sloping down with the ground as they watched the last few hours of light spill across the landscape.

“Well if we’re going about this the old way,” Arthur grunted after a moment, before twisting round and grabbing a box from behind him, swinging it around y/n’s eyes widened as she realised what Arthur had snuck off camp.

“Uncle’s secret stash of whiskey,” Y/n stared wide eyed at the crate, “Arthur you didn’t!” She half gasped, half grinned.

“You said it would be just like old times,” He hazily smiled at her, pulling out a bottle and squeezing off the cap. He then looked around, conflicted, “Uh, I didn’t think to grab any cups.”

“Oh, it don’t matter Morgan,” Y/n grinned, grabbing the bottle and taking a swig straight from the lip, “If we’re really doing it like old times, it won’t matter.”

Arthur looked at y/n then, really looked at her. The time of his life when she wasn’t in it had always felt hazy, it had always appeared to him that she had simply just been there, like Hosea and Dutch, even John. Dutch had bundled her home after finding her on the street, she had tried and almost successfully robbed him as he headed back home. She was young, too young to have been living life like that and yet, weren’t they all. He remembered shooting lessons with her John and Dutch as Hosea dipped in and out with scattered pieces and parts of plans.

There had been a time when he was sweet on her. Really sweet on her. They were young, growing up in a wild world where it felt like anything could happen. He never told her, life just seemed to get in the way and, after a while, he just figured she wasn’t into him like that. Maybe there was a part of him that would always be sweet on her, like the way he could never seem to shake away Mary. No, that’s not right. Mary and y/n were different, always had been different and always would be. But then again, what did Arthur Morgan know about love, about women?

“I…have this theory,” She turned to him suddenly, shattering apart his worried thoughts and replacing them with a warm glow.

“Theory? What you doing getting all philosophical on me?” The corner of his eyes crinkled as he grinned back.

“I aint getting philosophical Arthur, it’s just an idea-”

“Okay, okay,” He held up his hands in defence, “What’s this big idea, hm?”

“So…with this Mary business…I think that all she done this past while is talk about how you aint ever gone change, and my theory is that…that aint fair,”

“How come?”

“Because her asking you to give up this life, is exactly like you asking her to give hers; and…I don’t think love should be like that.” The liquor was loosening her tongue, making her slosh a little with her words, “I don’t think you should have to change yourself for love.”

“But aint that the point?” Arthur pondered after a beat, “That love changes you, makes you a better man and what not.” Y/n’s nose crinkled.

“Sure but…there’s a difference between growing with someone compared to changing who you are just so you don’t give them a bad reputation when you walk down the street together,” Arthur reared back a little but ultimately understood there was no malice behind her words, it was just the ugly truth. “I feel like,” She continued, now on a roll, “Mary aint in love with you…or maybe she was at one point but now it’s…I don’t know, hell, the only time I ever met the woman she barely said two words to me.” A soft chuckle, “But…I feel like she’s in love with this version of you, in her head. There’s a reason everyone back at camp, especially the girls, don’t like her Arthur. It’s because she aint like us, she aint ever had to worry about when her next meal gone be or if she’ll get the privilege of sleeping in a bed that night or…”

Arthur’s eyes were steady on the sunset, watching as it swam down over the horizon, disappearing into an inky, spotted night. The sky was surprisingly dull for a sunset, no explosion of colours as the sun sunk lower, no ecstasy of oranges and pinks – just an ever-expanding dull grey hue.

“I don’t like saying it Arthur,” y/n was still going, “Because I know you love her and I know an ounce of love is more than any of us deserve – but please…stop hurting yourself over her, I can’t take it anymore.” Arthur turned his head slightly to the side, peeking at y/n; he wasn’t necessarily upset by what she was saying, just numb to it. I mean, if he didn’t have Mary, then what did he have?

Silence blanketed them as the sun and its warmth slipped over the edge of the world, leaving the cold to creep in from all sides; only battled by the spluttering warmth of the fire. Arthur looked at her, really looked at her.

“I don’t think I’ll ever be able to stop loving her y/n.” A pause. He waited for her reaction.

“I know.” She did, and her heart ached for it.

***

The mood and pace picked up from then on. With the world at rest around them, being out in the open night with a crate of whiskey and a wheezing fire – it was enough to feel like they were the only ones who were truly alive. Perhaps, in that moment, they were. Old friends who knew each other better than they knew themselves. A conversation concocted with a mix of reminiscing of the past, laughing about the present, and theorising about the future.

Arthur told y/n that she was going to be married before she knew it. Y/n politely told Arthur that the only instance in which she would ever marry would be for money. Arthur laughed and commented on how it was money that was ruining his relationship, not building it.

They talked about Dutch, about how much they had grown from being scared kids with guns too big for their hands. And all of a sudden, Mary felt a million miles away - Mary didn’t even feel important anymore.

They drank themselves silly, forgetting about the whole point of their little getaway in the first place. Eventually, they curled up against the shrubbery, lying on their backs and looking up at the bottomless sky above them. Not even talking, just enjoying for a moment how the world was spinning underneath them.

***

When Arthur awoke the first thing he noticed was the dryness of his throat. Wincing, he coughed some of the dust out of his lungs as he sat up and then lay back down again, the weight of his head pulling him back.

“God damn.” He grunted – how much had he drank? Still, standing up he shook the dust off him, he knew he had gone through worse, an infamous night with Lenny ringing a bell. The sun was high in the sky meaning that he had slept through all, if not most, of the morning. Sighing he looked around for y/n. And looked again. Something wasn’t right.

She wasn’t there; not curled up next to him, not draped across the sleeping rolls, not near the horses – nowhere. She was gone. An ugly, familiar knot twisted its way into Arthur’s gut. Trying to douse the fire inside of him he calmed himself with the idea that she could have just gone for a walk or pulled through on the hunting after all – but her horse was still there.

“Oh no…no…no.” He choked standing up. He couldn’t lose her, not now. His fears climaxed, his whole world skidding to a stop as he noticed a note made from rich paper taped to the whiskey box.

Arthur Morgan,

You don’t seem to want to talk about Dutch. Maybe your friend will.

-        P

Numb, he went completely numb. But that feeling didn’t compare to when he had eventually stumbled back into camp, the note limb by his side as looked up and saw an irate Dutch waiting for him, his eyes black.

“Where, the hell, is she Morgan?”

next part

[soundofseventeen]

Library Assistant (Yoon Jeonghan)

Hello! This one is a little longer than other ones (not too much but a lil) so enjoy!! 💛💚

Requested by anon

5: “Don’t you love me?”

73: “Excuse me?”

You froze in front of the counter, not entirely believing what your eyes were seeing. Why the hell was Yoon Jeonghan, the guy who has hated you your entire college career, behind the counter, talking to the head librarian? 

“Oh, Y/N, you’re here!” The librarian said once she spotted you, waving you over. You slowly walked behind the counter, eyes going from the librarian to Jeonghan. “I want you to meet someone.” 

“Actually-”

“Y/N and I have met before.” Jeonghan smirked at you, smiling at the librarian. Of course she fell for his sweet smile. Everyone did. 

“Oh good, then this will be easy!” She clapped, gesturing to Jeonghan. “Y/N, this is our new hire!” 

“...What.” You said, looking between the two again. “You… He’s… What?” 

“With Minghao heading home soon, we opened up the student position and Jeonghan here applied this morning. He seemed eager to start and is clearly charming. I think he’ll make a good fit here.” She smiled, you staring at Jeonghan, who just gave the librarian a smile. “So, since you two know each other, Y/N, I can leave you to train him?” 

“I’m sorry, I blacked out for a second.” You said, looking at her again. “What?” 

“Just show him around, how we do things. It’s a simple job, but Y/N is the best at it.” She patted Jeonghan’s shoulder. “I will leave you to it! Important things to do!” She smiled, waving at you both and leaving you alone with Jeonghan. You both stood there for a second before Jeonghan cleared his throat. 

“So. Shall we get started?” He turned to you, grinning. You just glared at him, rolling your eyes and adjusting your bag on your shoulder. 

“Whatever.” You said, starting to walk past him. Jeonghan put out an arm, stopping you and causing you to look at him, that stupid grin still on his face. 

“Oh come on. Don’t you love me?” He teased, you just pushing his arm away and continuing to walk. “This is gonna be fun.” Jeonghan laughed, turning to follow you. 

Just when you thought Jeonghan couldn’t get any more irritating to you, he managed to excel at the subject. The next few weeks were spent attempting to show him what to do, only for him to half ass it. He put the books back in the wrong places. He spent more time chatting with his friends when they came than actually working. You often found him sitting behind the counter on his phone (which he never silenced, by the way!) instead of doing school work or reading like you were supposed to. 

You loved your job, but the fact that you now had to see Jeonghan all the time at your job made you dislike it. You disliked it a lot. 

So one day, you decided to sneakily find out what Jeonghan’s plan was. 

“Why the hell did you take this job.” 

Okay, maybe it wasn’t that sneaky but you were irritated, okay? 

“What?” Jeonghan looked up at you, blinking. You two were separating returned books from the day, you with your neat carts, Jeonghan with his one cart half filled with books on it, none of them matching. 

“Why did you take this job?” Jeonghan shrugged, looking back at the books. 

“Needed the money.” He muttered, you looking at him. You rolled your eyes, knowing that was a lie. 

“God, do you really just hate me that much?” You said, Jeonghan looking up at you again. 

“I… What?” 

“You just had to take this job to torture me in my favorite place? It’s not bad enough that I have to deal with you on campus but you have to come here? And you can’t even take it seriously. Are you trying to make me look bad or something? Get me fired?” You blurted, Jeonghan staring at you. 

“You… You think I…” He said, you just shaking your head and grabbing your bag off the chair. 

“Whatever. Finish this yourself. Or don’t. I really don’t care anymore.” You said, turning and leaving the library. Jeonghan just looked after you as you left, sighing and setting his books down on the cart. 

“Shit.” He muttered to himself. 

It was after that that you started to notice changes. For one thing, when you came into work the next day, the head librarian complimented the job you had done on separating the books the previous night. Something you had thought wasn’t done considering you still had half the books to go when you left. 

You also noticed the next time Jeonghan’s friends came in, he talked to them for a minute, but then they went on their merry way. And he… actually brought a textbook when he came? He also didn’t talk to you very often, mainly saying hello when one of you came in and goodbye when one of you left. Even when you worked on things together, he didn’t really say anything. 

He went from irritating you to confusing you in a matter of months. 

So once again, you decided to try and figure out what was going on. You and Jeonghan were sitting in the library, waiting until you hit closing hours. It was the last official day before winter break, so the library was basically empty. That meant you two had been sitting in silence for… a long time. 

“Why did you start working here.” You asked again, Jeonghan looking at you. 

“I told you, I needed money.” He said, shrugging his shoulders. 

“I’m sorry, but that’s bullshit.” You said, Jeonghan’s eyebrows raising. 

“Excuse me?” 

“We both know that’s a lie, so what’s the real reason? You know, besides to torture me and everything.” You added in the joke, Jeonghan looking at you for a second before letting a small smile on his face. 

“It wasn’t to torture you.” He said, looking back at his book. 

“So what is it? Clearly you don’t have a passion for this place or anything.” You said, feeling a little weird to be having a calm, normal conversation with Jeonghan. 

“If I tell you, will you stop asking?” He looked back at you, you nodding your head. “Fine. I took this job because I wanted to get closer to someone.” You raised your eyebrow, a little shocked. You didn’t take Jeonghan as the type to get a crush. A flirt, yeah. But actually having a crush? 

“Really?” Jeonghan nodded, turning back to his book. “Who?” 

“I thought you were going to stop asking questions.” He said, a slight smirk on his face. 

“You never clarified that. You just said to stop asking why you took this job.” You pointed at him, Jeonghan sighing. 

“It’s no one.” 

“No, no, I know everyone who is here. Who is it?” You asked, Jeonghan shaking his head. “Is it the girl who always walks around her table when she gets stuck? Or the guy who comes in every Friday and sets out all his stuff but then watches anime for 3 hours? Or the girl who has all the fancy highlighters but only uses like, 2 of them?” You rattled, Jeonghan just smiling at you. 

“You really pay attention to people, huh?” He commented, you shrugging. 

“Well, you notice things.” You said. “So who is it?” 

“None of them.” He turned back to his book. 

“But it is someone?” 

“Y/N, I’d really rather not talk about this.” He said, glancing at you. You opened your mouth again, only to shut it. 

“Fine.” You said, turning to your own book. Jeonghan glanced at you, then at the clock. 

“Oh hey, time to go.” He got up, grabbing his bag and his jacket. You followed him, getting up and then going to leave the library. Once you locked the front door, you turned to Jeonghan and realized that you wouldn’t be seeing him until the end of break. And that... actually made you sad. 

“So… Have a good break, I guess.” You said, turning to start to walk away. 

“Hey, Y/N?” You turned around, Jeonghan having caught up to you. “I uh… Can I walk you home? I’ll give you one more clue as to why I took this job.”

“Uh… Sure.” You said, starting to walk away, Jeonghan keeping up with you. If you had told 4 months ago Y/N that Yoon Jeonghan would be walking you home…

“Okay so…” He took a deep breath, looking at you. “Part of the reason is because of you.” You furrowed your eyebrows. 

“Me? How am I involved?” You looked at him, confused. “You said that you took this job to get closer to someone and…” You blinked a bit. 

“You know, for someone who studies as much as you do, you’re taking a long time to figure this out.” He said, smiling at you. You just let out a small oh, blinking at him some more. “Look, I’m not expecting anything to happen. I just… I don’t hate you. It’s kind of the opposite. So yeah.” He said, looking around as you walked. You just blinked at him a few times. 

Jeonghan… liked you. He liked you. He liked you. Again, if 4 months ago Y/N saw you now… 

You just let out a sigh, reaching over and taking Jeonghan’s free hand in yours. Jeonghan quickly glanced at your hands, then forward again. You did see the slight smile on his face, grinning as he swung your hand a bit. 

You had loved your job, and then you disliked your job. Now, you were a little closer to loving it again.

[chilling-seavey]

Amoureux (c.s./d.s.) - Christian’s Epilogue

A/N Long overdue, here is Amoureux’s second epilogue focusing around Christian’s future after the novel ended! Thanks to @why-dont-we-not​ for helping me out a lil and getting my butt in gear to actually get this done LOL

Christian stood in the doorway of Louisa’s bedroom, staring silently into the empty room, the bed unslept in, the candle burnt out, and the wedding dress gone along with her. His runaway bride. The anger he had felt in the past weeks had diminished and he was just so tired, hiding his face in his hands and turned away from the room as the heartbreak took over. Mary watched him silently, her face fallen in pity as she watched him swallow back his tears. Christian leaned against the doorframe for a moment and took a deep breath to regain his composure before running both hands through his hair and meeting the lady in waiting’s gaze.

“Do you know where she went?”

“I do not know. She did not tell me anything. I had no idea.” Mary replied softly.

“Fuck.” Christian sighed, turning back to the room with his hands on his hips as if they had to analyze the emptiness of it. They were the only two who knew about Louisa’s disappearance at that moment, Mary making sure to lead him upstairs privately to show him the open window in his fiancé’s bedroom. She waited patiently for further instruction from the groom on his second wedding day in a week. Christian sighed, rubbing a hand over his jaw tiredly before speaking ever so quietly, almost to himself with realization that he didn’t want to admit,

“She went to find Daniel.”

The calmness that radiated off of the future King and the abandoned groom was almost worse than the possible anger and it turned every head in the palace as he passed on his way downstairs and right out the front doors, still dressed in his suit. No one bothered to question him as his stone-cold straight-lined expression said enough. Christian rushed down the hill to the stables and let himself inside, much to the surprise of the stable hands who watched with wide eyes as the groom helped himself silently to his horse and led him out to the courtyard. He fastened the reins and tied on a leather saddle before hoisting a leg over and took off for the coast, alone.

The Southampton harbour was bustling with people when he arrived nearly an hour later, his once styled hair falling over his forehead with sweat as he had raced to beat the clock, his suit jacket splattered with mud. People bowed as he passed, their expressions flat and Christian frowned at the solemn nature of the crowd as he navigated his way through the harbour on horseback. He easily spotted the royal carriage in front of one of the empty docks and he trotted over quickly. The two guards were talking quietly, surrounded by Daniel’s packed trunks and bags, and when he approached they looked up at him with nothing but fear in their eyes.

“Where is she?” Christian asked flatly, twisting the reins around his hands.

“Your Royal Highness.” the guards bowed to him before glancing at each other again. “Princess Louisa…uhm…she…”

“Spit it out.” Christian snapped, although more sadness than anger was apparent in his voice.

“She and your brother jumped ship.”

Christian swallowed thickly, “To Spain?”

“No. They took off down the harbour and caught a ship at the end. We are unaware where they are headed. We can find out if you would like someone to go after her-”

“No.” Christian silenced them quickly, he looked down the harbour to where they had supposedly disappeared, the girl he once loved, never to truly be his, “Let them go.”

~~

Christian was assigned a new bride by the new year. The Princess of Denmark; a slight stout young woman with long dark hair and a broad nose, always caked in makeup and wearing the tightest of corsets until her bosom nearly popped out of her dresses. She knew her place in society well, or at least it came off as such, and the King of England was sure she would be a loyal future queen. She wasn’t Louisa though; and Christian would never say that out loud.

So he was set for life with this woman whose voice sounded like crows squawking and her laugh was like knives on marble. Christian found himself missing Louisa more and more every minute that passed, hoping she was at least happy but still sick with anger that his brother, yet again, got what he wanted.

The Royal Family never spoke about Daniel; it was as if they lost another son just like they had their first. The disappointment to their country and to their family. Might as well have been dead as it would have saved them a hell ton of trouble. Once Louisa abandoned the wedding plans, England was to take over the French throne since their side of the deal was not held up. Still in love with her, Christian convinced his father to spare Louisa’s family and turn their focus to other things, leaving France intact and England without a future queen.

That was, of course, until Ethel came in from Denmark and was determined to be the queen they never had, with her near perfect old-fashioned manners but still demanding and clingy personality. It was as if she couldn’t function as a human being without a man with her. Christian tried so hard to be polite, to convince himself to love her like a wife, but he just felt empty with her around, like he was literally missing a part of his heart. He always assumed it was Louisa who his heart was always yearning for; how she picked up and left without even a goodbye, his one true love that with whom he never got his happy ending.

His new wedding was planned to occur early in the year, sort of as a way to get it over with before he might have a second runaway fiancé. The King didn’t want to take any chances. But Christian kept putting it off and putting it off with excuse after excuse as to why they should wait; longer to get to know each other, he wasn’t feeling well one week, he wanted to go see a one-night-only play in the city that exact day, anything to just wait a little longer. Wait for what? Christian himself didn’t even know. Wait for feelings to arise? Wait for Ethel to leave? Wait for a sign that he didn’t have to be with a shrieking witch the rest of his life?

Well that sign certainly came that summer as he was rushing to head down to the stables for an afternoon ride, his riding boots clicking loudly over the marble floors of the palace as he descended the stairs and made a beeline for the doors. His cufflinks were proving to be a bit of a hassle as he tugged on them to get them to sit right as the doormen opened the double doors for him and he rushed outside. He knew the path to the stables like the back of his hand, not having to even watch where he was going as he cut through the gardens, grumbling under his breath at the pieces of silver that had yet to clasp. Before he knew it, he was tripping right over onto the grass, falling flat on his face with a loud thud.

“Oh my goodness! Your Royal Highness! I am so dreadfully sorry!”

Christian picked himself up quickly, cheeks flushed pink with embarrassment as he brushed himself off and turned to see what he tripped over, a wicker basket of transplanted flowers now knocked over at his feet. He looked up into the light blue eyes of the young woman in front of him, her face filled with concern and smudged with spots of soil, light brown hair a whispy mess on her head showing how long she had been out working in the gardens.

“Are you alright?” she asked quickly.

“Yes.” Christian cleared his throat nervously, eyeing her plain work dress that was marked up in soil and grass stains and she crouched down to gather her spilled basket. “Let me help you.”

“Oh, no, that is not necessary.” she assured him quickly but he still bend down with her to gather some of the flowers.

“I should have been cautious of where I was walking.” Christian said.

“Oh no, my fault for leaving my things in your path.” she replied quickly, not wanting him to feel the blame in the slightest. The Royals could do no wrong. “So sorry.”

With the flowers back in the basket, they both stood up again and Christian eyed the gentle woman in front of him as if he couldn’t take his eyes off of her, “Are you new here?”

The question seemed to startle her, “Oh, no, Your Royal Highness. I have been working here for two years now, tending to the gardens and the grounds.”

“Usually a mans work.” Christian stated. Not rudely, just an obvious observation.

“Yes, well, I enjoy nature.” she smiled widely at him.

“Well thank you…” he faded out to let her introduce herself.

“Cora.” the gardener said, tucking the basket over her arm.

“Cora.” Christian repeated gently with a small nod, a smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “For keeping our gardens looking marvelous.”

“My pleasure.” she grinned.

“Darling!”

The shrill voice from the palace sent Christian’s skin crawling and his wide eyes looked back to Cora, “I was never here.”

She could barely laugh through her nod of agreement before he was rushing off to the stables, tossing her a smile over his shoulder.

Christian found himself drawn to the gardens more than before, just to sit on the grass and read his poetry as she worked, sharing small smiles with the pretty gardener in passing. Harmless, right? Harmless that he spent as much time as he could away from his new fiancé and with the help instead. Ethel hardly noticed honestly. She was much more focussed on the lifestyle, spending time with all the lavish activities that came with the title of ‘future queen’ to even be bothered to get to know Christian anymore. It was a vicious cycle of Christian wanting to put off the date and Ethel not caring enough about him to ask why he seemed to be avoiding marrying her.

As the days went by, Christian and Cora started talking more in the gardens and he found that she enjoyed listening to him read her poetry as she worked, giving them lots of time to discuss the pieces as the hours passed. It seemed to always end with Christian losing track of time and having to rush in for dinner with only minutes to spare. Cora wasn’t much to offer; born into a poor family of working class. She was thin and pale despite working outside most of the time and no where close to Ethel’s thicker stature that came from well fed royalty, but she was pretty and Christian wasn’t dumb enough to ignore that obvious fact.  

Cora lived in the bottom of the palace with the rest of the staff in dark rooms and cold stone walls. She would never complain though, being treated quite well by the Royal Family compared to other families around the country, and especially not when she had the future King of England coming to find her in the servants quarters late one night. The stares from her work friends (acquaintances?) were near comical as they gaped at her being led off by the Prince’s arm and back into the main palace.

Christian took her to the library – a room she was never permitted in since she spent most of her time outside – to show her his own private collection of literature. They found themselves losing track of time again, sitting together on the wood floors with a single candle between them and books stacked around them. Christian offered out a book to Cora who politely declined.

“You have my permission to read, Cora.” Christian chuckled. “You are not working currently.”

“Yes, well, you see,” Cora mumbled, tucking her hair behind her ear before smoothing her hand over her grey skirt, “I cannot read, Your Royal Highness.”

The silence that fell made her blush furiously.

“You cannot read?” Christian frowned with curiosity, “But you talk so formally about the poems I read to you in the garden…enough that you must have studied at some time?”

“No. I just feel the words like I’ve known them my whole life. They make sense to me; when you read them to me.” she smiled bashfully.

Christian looked down at the book in his hand, dragging his fingers gently over the words on the page before looking back up to her in the candlelight, “May I teach you?”

With a gentle nod from the young woman, he shuffled closer to her, sliding the candle carefully over the floors as well and slipped the book into her hands. He set his hand on the floor behind her to lean in close in the dark room, guiding her through letter by letter as the candle burned itself down bit by bit. They were quiet, sharing whispers and soft laughter through the gold trimmed library as midnight passed and the night went on. Until they turned to each other at the same time, noses brushing in their close proximity and their smiles both faltered with realization of how close they were truly sat.

“Your Royal Highness…” Cora breathed hesitantly.

“Christian.” he corrected softly.

“Christian…” Cora spoke slowly, knowing better than to call any member of the Royal Family anything but their title. But she couldn’t help it when he was staring at her like that; like she had the answers to all the questions in the world.

Christian couldn’t hold it in any longer, raising his opposite hand to her cheek and pulled her in for a gentle kiss. Her soft gasp was the only sound in the room as their lips met, locking perfectly like it was how they were supposed to be as cliché as it sounded, and Christian slid his hand into the back of her hair to pull her any closer. They stayed there for a moment, sharing slow and lingering kisses before they pulled back at the same time, lips with that same blissful pout as their brains worked to keep up with their hearts.

The irony was unbelievable: Christian falling for someone he couldn’t have while going against the wishes of his family and his fiancé. It was a cruel joke by God, he was sure of it. He was just like Louisa, giving him a better understanding of what she was going through during her time at Kensington Palace with that thrill of true love but that sickening constant feeling of guilt. Every time Ethel was around him, Christian felt like he was in purgatory; caught between a rock and a hard place. But his safety was in Cora, reading to her in the gardens during the day and teaching her to read in the library by night, finishing early to get a few secretive kisses in before they parted ways. It was the type of love he thought he had with Louisa but he didn’t realize it wasn’t until he was with Cora.

Ethel was starting to get suspicious as to why Christian kept pushing back the date as he initial excitement of becoming British Royalty started to wear off and now, she wanted a wedding ring to prove it and lock it in. Lock him in. She started getting clingier so Christian couldn’t get time away to be with Cora during the day but he made it up to her at night. She was worth losing sleep over.

Worth losing sleep over as she was tucked up in his down filled bed sheets with him, the two of them silently staring at each other, breaths in steady time and cheeks flushed in matching pink. Christian traced the curves of her jaw and her neck and over her bare shoulders as they laid in silence, wondering how he ended up like that…in the best way. He shifted his arm around her and she cuddled up against his chest as he pressed a kiss to her head through the silent night. You never sleep better than when it’s next to the one you love.

The morning only brought a rehashing of the night, between shared gentle kisses and soft touches and bashful giggles and shy moans against warm skin and supple lips. They had yet to get through to the reality of their situation, still riding the high of that thrill of the sneaky ‘honeymoon phase’. But that only lasted so long until there was a knock at the door. The fearful look on Cora’s face was engraved into Christian’s mind when he looked back on that memory in the years that followed but in the moment it was a brief glance before the door was thrown open and Ethel was barging in, singing out about wanting some extra time with her darling.

It only took all of six seconds for Ethel to process that the gardener was in her fiancé’s bed and she threw an absolute fit, shouting obscenities at the poor girl, throwing herself over Christian and his messy bed to grab her by the hair and drag her out of bed. It was a panic that morning and a complete haze of screams and pleads and tears from all parties and soon Christian found himself sitting in his father’s office, slouched back in the chair, numb, staring at the floor with his fist pressed to his mouth as if thinking how did I end up here?

“I do not know what to say to you right now, my son.” the King spoke lowly, sitting opposite him at the large desk.

Christian closed his eyes tightly as his father spoke to him about where to go from there, how wrong it was to be at all involved with the help and how heartbroken Ethel was. In moments like that, Christian could only think of Daniel. He knew better than anyone at that moment that you couldn’t force love; it just happened, and Christian felt sick with guilt over pushing his brother away. More than just pushing him away; banishing him. His own brother.

“Are you listening to me?”

Christian’s eyes rose from the floor to his father’s serious expression and he nodded weakly.

“She will be dismissed this afternoon.”

“No.” Christian said quickly, sitting up in the chair as if suddenly intrigued in the conversation.

“Christian, you are no better than…” his father couldn’t even say his name. “You are acting incredibly immature. After one failed engagement I only hoped you would take this one more seriously.”

“Ethel is atrocious, Father. Truly.” Christian protested. “I loathe the sight of her.”

“Oh my word, Christian John, you sound like your brother.” the King scoffed tiredly with a roll of his eyes.

“I cannot look at her without wanting to rid my supper from my stomach and her voice makes my ears bleed.” Christian said seriously, looking right into his father’s eyes.

“That is enough.” the King scolded loudly. “You will not speak about your fiancé like this. You are incredibly rude.”

“I want to choose my wife.”

“Christian, that is not-”

“I want to choose my wife myself. Not who you pick or who mother picks or whomever. I want to pick my wife. And I want to marry Cora.”

“The gardener?”

“The woman. I love her.”

“Do not be ridiculous.”

“I love her and I am going to marry her and she is going to rule England with me when the time arises.”

“You cannot marry a commoner, Christian. Society does not work like that.”

“It can. And it will. I will either marry Cora with your blessing or I will abdicate the throne.”

His threat left his father in stunned silence for a few long seconds, his shocked and angered blue eyes staring down his nose at his son. Without Christian staying as heir, they would have no family left to take up the throne since Daniel was long gone. Anna was not an option. The British throne would be passed over to some other family. The King cleared his throat and looked to the tabletop, tapping his fingers on the surface anxiously.

“Your…suggestion arises questions about your brother.”

“Daniel doesn’t want to be King. There’s no doubt in my mind that if he comes back he will abdicate as well.”

The King sighed heavily.

“Father, I want to be King. I will be a great King at that. But I do not want to be forced to rule beside a woman I cannot stand.”

The father and son stared at each other silently.

“You are aware that you are no better than your brother in this situation.”

Christian bowed his head to his lap at the obvious.

“Finding yourself in the same situation as he, the same situation you threatened his life over and thus got him exiled?”

“I am aware.” Christian spoke softly.

“I do very  much want you to take my place as King some day, Christian. But, for now, you need to spend today thinking about your actions.” the King said sternly. “I want you in your room until supper and by then I expect that you have spoken to God about your hypocrisy. You must take it up with Him and find guidance, son. As you do, I will contemplate your…negotiation terms.”

So Christian was then back in his room, bed stripped by the maids, and he was sat at his desk by the window overlooking the grounds. Cora wasn’t in the garden. Just like his brother months before, Christian was locked in his room to think about what he had done. Pathetic.

He prayed for a bit at first but felt generally hopeless turning to God about something so…sinful. So Christian resorted to a quill and parchment instead. He found himself writing each letter carefully and slowly, spelling out the name he once cursed to heaven at night;

Daniel,

I’m sorry…

[dayasbun]

Opposites - Fezco

Summary: in which rue hooks you up with a drug dealer that takes quite the interest in you. you're known for your soft spoken words and kind personality, and he's known for his drug selling habits and crude outlook on life- but opposites attract right?

Warnings: uh let's see there's bad words? no smut this time around just soft fluffy shiz but next time i'm not promising soft anythin- anyway i literally adored writing this and i just love fez+angus sm like come on y'all i need more fez and angus fics!!! this is 100% for @wakandamama cuz she keeps me supplied with that good good- and by that i mean those good ass fezco fics- anyway i hope y'all angels love reading this as much as i loved writing it :) <3 there are for sure an abundance of more fez fics coming your way- okay i'll shutup now- enjoy!!!!!!

-

Fezco.

Or Fez- that's what Rue called him, and you didn't know much about him. All you knew is that Rue and Gia swore you were 'his type' and that he was an actual drug dealer.

When the girls originally told you that he was a drug dealer you thought it was a joke; but you soon realized it was anything but. Being a drug dealers type isn't exactly what you wanted to hear when coming to visit the Bennett fam, but hey- work with what you got... right?

Your innocent and pure persona didn't match the energy you assumed would come from the Fez you kept hearing about...however, opposites do attract-so you couldn't help but to be just the tiniest bit interested.

The party you and Rue walked into smelled so strongly of weed- you hated it. Alot. Drugs and weed were never your thing, you'd much rather read a book than get high- drinking you could deal with, but you preferred to know what you were doing and not have your mind altered often.

"Come onnnnn- I know he's here I just know it-"

"Rue, the reason we're here is not only to see your little friend Fez, I came to this party to have fun?"

"Y/N you don't smoke or do drugs, you only drink so what's really the definition of fun to you?"

You rolled your eyes walking off, headed to the kitchen for a drink. You didn't want to get drunk, but you wanted a buzz. The kitchen was surprisingly empty, so taking advantage of that you cracked open a new bottle of tequila and took a couple bitter shots. You were a bit of a lightweight, so two shots was your cutoff before beginning to sputter over the edge.

"Pour me some ight?"

You looked up at the face the voice belonged to and your eyes widened.

Now look, you'd seen quite a few men in your lifetime. You had a decent amount of experience, but you didn't sleep around. You had seen all of the blonde douchey men, the sweet brunette boys and the basic men that just didn't care about anything but sex. But this man you were looking up at was- damn. You didn't have any history with redheads but you were most definitely considering a future with one right now- maybe it was the alcohol telling you that but holy shi-

"Mhm, what you want baby?" your confidence boosted out of nowhere...another shot suddenly didn't seem too bad.

"Just a few shots, maybe a cup of the shit so it actually effects me you feel?"

You grabbed a red cup and poured some of the alcoholic drink in it. "What's your name handsome?" you questioned as you handed it to him.

"Fez."

Holy shit- so this was Fez. Drug dealer Fez; but for fucks sake look at him, if you were actually his type like Rue claimed you felt as though it was a blessing straight from God himself.

"I'm Y/N, nice to meet you." you held out your hand and poured another shot for yourself after he shook it.

"So who's your people? I ain't seen you 'round here. I woulda remembered if I had."

"I'm a friend of Rue and Gias, they're like family to me but no blood."

He looked you up and down, making you feel self conscious but also straight up horny...you needed to stop, you really needed to stop. You didn't know for sure if it was him or the alcohol making you feel like this, but above all you were pretty sure it was all him.

"Rue and G? They chill, so you good then?"

"What?"

"Like you not a snitch. You know what I do- I think you know anyway if you tight with Rue."

"That rhymed!" you giggled with a grin. He gave you a confused look but soon softened up and chuckled. "Yeah, I guess it did."

"I won't snitch, i'm not like that..."

"Good baby, good." he took a sip of the drink you poured for him and you almost poured another shot for yourself but refrained. You were tipsy but you weren't drunk- and you didn't want to be drunk.

"So Rue told me I'm your type, was she right?"

Yeah, that was definitely the alcohol talking- you would never ask anything like that.

"Ion know yet, give me a spin."

"A spin...?" you spun around, feeling a bit dizzy in result.

"You cute as hell, i'm not finna lie. But ion even know y-"

"Then get to know me, Fez." you said a bit more seductively than you had planned.

"Nah cuz see I know you drunk. And you fine as hell I'm not even finna play with you, but I can't mess with you when you drunk. Rue said you a lightweight."

"I'm not!" you reassured him "Just tipsy, I know everything that's going on- you're Fez, I'm Y/N and we're at a party that smells way too heavily of weed."

"If you don't like weed you really must hate me then."

"I definitely don't hate you..."

Beards were never really your thing, but god Fez's beard was most definitely past acceptable- it was so perfect on him? Everything on him seemed as though it had been perfectly placed by God to be there.

"We should get outta here. I know some people looking for me and I ain' tryna get you tied all up in some shit you know nun about. Come on."

"Oooh naughty drug dealer," you teased with a grin "Such a bad boy, what are the feds coming for you? Is that it?"

He turned to look at you, and the serious look on his face caused you to wonder if maybe the feds actually were, leading to your grin quickly ceasing.

He kept his arm around your waist so that you stayed close to him, it was almost like he thought you'd slip away if he let you go for a second. As you two made your way through the crowd you saw Rue winking at you in the distance- damnit she probably planned this.

Eventually after a blur of conversation and giggles, you two made it to his house. It smelled just as heavily as weed as the party did- but strangely enough this was different, you barely even noticed.

"Get out them clothes, I know Rue probably made you wear 'em. They don't really look like you, you feel? I got some hoodies and shit you can chill in."

God yes- a man willingly offering his hoodies for you to wear? Was this love or was this a fucking dream? And he was right, Rue had forced you into the skimpy clothing claiming that it made you look 'sexy'. You hated it, but you couldn't disagree with her- you looked hot.

Fez stepped out of the room to let you change, which you found absolutely precious. You were starting to completely sober up from the tad of tipsy you had inflicted on yourself earlier. Once you were in his green hoodie and a pair of sweats that were way too big for you, you opened the door only to find him standing outside of it on his phone.

"Hey, I'm done." you said softly, a small smile playing on your lips. He nodded and walked in kicking the door closed behind him. You two sat on the bed, not too close but not too far.

"You tired or?"

You nodded as your first response "A bit, yes. I drove here this morning and it took a good 6 hours so...yeah."

"Shit 6 hours? Crazy."

"Yeah, and the second I got here the first person I heard about was you."

"Oh for real? Rue tryna help me out." he laughed- a genuine laugh- for the first time and it made you feel weak in the knees, thank god you were sitting down. "Of course lil sis would try to hook me up wit' somebody she see as her big sis."

You nodded looking down at your hands.

"Do I scare you?"

You looked over at him and shook your head rapidly "Not at all."

"You seem a lil bit tense is all."

You shrugged "Maybe it's because i'm tired, maybe I just need to relax."

"Yeah baby, relax." You felt his hands- his big ass hands- on your shoulders. He started moving them at the perfect speed and you felt your stress begin to slowly fade away.

"That's nice..." you groaned a bit as you felt your posture melt into an unflattering position.

Fez grinned and stopped. "I got magic hands on God! Like for real I start massaging and all the bitches just start coming to me-"

You burst out laughing "Oh yeah I'm sure they're running right now!"

He nodded "You know it...I like yo vibe. It's different. You a lil soft but I think we all is sometimes."

"Even you?"

"Nah not m-"

"Does Fezy Wezy get soft sometimes too?"

"Okay you can stop wit' that shit right now for real-" he said seriously but with the goofiest smile on his face. You laughed laying back in the bed and taking in the scent of the sheets that for some reason you liked- a mix of smoke with coffee and some type of old ass man cologne. You felt the bed dip some a few moments later as he lay by you.

"How long you here for?"

"Just a couple weeks, that's the plan anyway."

"The plan? What you implying, you tryna stay longer for me?"

You turned over looking at him "Boy shutup, you haven't even kissed me yet."

"Yeah sorry lil mama but that's not happening."

"What?" you said confused and felt genuinely hurt for a minute.

"Cuz you finna kiss me first. I'm irresistible."

"Jesus Fez-" you laughed shaking your head "Irresistible isn't the word, but the words 'too much' do come to mi-"

He cut you off by pressing his lips against yours, his beard tickling your chin. Your lips moved in perfect harmony for a minute before you two let off.

"So who's irresistible now Mr. Tough Guy?"

"Still me, who's bed we in right now?"

"Shutuppppp!" you laughed. You were so genuinely happy right now, a man hadn't made your face light up with the most gorgeous smile like this in ages.

"So tell me a lil bit about you. You give me a lot of 'Hi! I'm Little Miss Perfect!' vibes- but aye, I'm not one to judge so-"

"Oh god- I wish I could say that you were right but you're not...I don't know I mean...I've had my share of shit I've done, who hasn't? But I just try to stay grounded, never change who I am. I always love seeing the best in people, even when there's not much to see."

"Yeah? What you see in me then."

"I see a genuinely sweet man with a tough exterior. An attractive tough exterior but- that's definitely besides the point."

He chuckled at that, it made you smile.

"I think you're very caring." you continued softly, "I think you worry about others more than yourself. You'd take a bullet for someone you love, I don't know maybe you already have. But I don't think the tough guy that sells drugs that everyone sees is just who you are...there's so much mo- woah okay I am talking way too much-"

He watched you so carefully as you spoke, soaking up every word as though a sponge would with water. "Damn girl, the way you talk got me over here thinking I'm in love or some shit."

You laughed shaking your head "I'm just being completely honest Fez."

"Completely?"

"Completely."

He hummed and closed his eyes "I'm feeling kinda tired. But don't bail on me in the morning, you better be here when I wake up so I can make your fine ass some breakfast."

"If your breakfast is as good as your massages are, I'll most definitely still be here." you taunted as you cuddled into him, your head on his chest as you listened to his heartbeat beat a bit faster than it was supposed to.

"Rumor says the breakfast actually be better- it hits different trust me."

You smiled yet again- probably the billionth time that night. "Go to sleep Fez."

"Ight Ight. Nighty night Lil Miss Perfect."

"That will never be my nickname and I swear to God if you say it again you'll wake up in this bed alone."

"Damn okay! Goodnight Y/N."

"Goodnight Fez."

-

it's 1:48 AM and i just finished this- but wow i have no regrets this is so long i think it's one of the longest i've ever written? not quite sure didn't do a word count but feeling proud and loving angus//fez more and more every damn day :p gn!

[hellshiremisfits]

The Ballad of Sorrow Creek ~ Chapter 3

(Warnings: Drugs, Mention of drug abuse, Canon Typical violence, mild disassociation)

There are several ways to add insult to injury.

Having a bloody marshal waiting for one in one's room for no discernible reason is injury. The insult is having said marshal be the weird guy from church.

Caleb frowned, leaning against the door frame as the man rose from a chair by the window.

"You must have been having a busy morning, Mr. Quinn," the marshal greeted, and Caleb sneered.

"What d'ye want?"

"Talk."

"About?" Caleb asked, hand resting on his revolver. Something about this man was unsettling, and it wasn't just that he was a marshal.

"A friend asked me to warn you. He fears for your life." The marshal eyed the revolver wearily, before seeking Caleb's gaze. Caleb smirked.

"Y'know, you..."

"Wouldn't be the first marshal you've killed?" the marshal nodded. "I'm aware."

"Is that why yer here? Justice for a fallen brethren? He got in our way and..."

The man raised a hand. "Are you willing to hear me out?"

Another frown. Caleb still wasn't feeling too well, and now he was frankly getting annoyed. "Name a good reason."

The marshal eyed him for a moment as if waiting for something. Then he licked his lips in thought. "Henry Bayshore," he said dryly, and Caleb's hand was on his gun immediately.

He didn't get to shoot. He didn't even know if he'd drawn his revolver. Everything went black before that.

Caleb didn't know how much time had passed when he came to again. Only thing he was fairly certain of was that he was fucking angry. Correction: that was one of two things he was fairly certain of. The other was that he was neatly tied to his own bed.

"Sorry, Quinn," someone said. Miss Josie. She was sitting in the chair next to the bed, knitting as if all was normal. "I trust Marshal Jacobs 'ere wi' his message more than I trust ye wi' yer temper."

Caleb gave her a look of pure outrage at such betrayal, but Miss Josie just twirled a needle menacingly. "Now will ye 'ear the marshal out?" she asked cooly, watching Caleb struggle against his bonds.

With a growl that faded into a groan Caleb finally nodded, glaring over at the marshal. "Spit it out."

The marshal nodded, calmly rolling a cigarette. "My name is Dan Jacobs. I'm a US Marshal over in Lander County..."

"That's in Nevada, innit?" Caleb interrupted. "Yer quite some way from home, Marshal."

Marshal Jacobs nodded. "I got business in Lincoln. And about a week ago I received a message from a friend of mine. Ethan Murdock."

"Never heard that name," Caleb snarled.

"But he has heard of you, Mr. Quinn."

"He and dozens of others. What's yer point?"

"He's worried for your life, Mr. Quinn."

A long, annoyed growl followed, and Caleb rolled his eyes, tugging on the bounds again. "That's all nice an' fuckin' dandy, but..."

"Will you hear me out, Mr. Quinn?"

Caleb glared, but nodded. Miss Josie's needle twirling while her eyes were fixed on his crotch might or might not have had a part in that decision.

"Five years ago I met Ethan Murdock," Marshal Jacobs said. "Not on a friendly basis, though. He had broken into one of Bayshore's offices."

This got Caleb's eyes to sparkle. "I think I'm starting to like this Mr. Murdock." He grinned a toothy grin.

"Oh, you'd get along well. He's a reporter on his own terms, and after his arrest Ethan confidentially told me of evidence of severe foul-play in some of Bayshore's recent business activities. Ethan was determined to bring Bayshore down. I wrote it off as a mad whim, if not vile jealousy or plain slander, but then someone made an attempt on Ethan's life, and his rooms and office were ransacked."

Another nod, this one much more stoically. Caleb was listening intently.

"I don't think it will surprise you that these incidents destroyed the evidence Ethan had. Most of them; otherwise, I would not have believed him at all."

"Take it there wasn't enough left, however?"

The marshal shook his head. "The charges concerning the break-in were dropped. Much to Ethan's dismay, however."

"I get him. Bayshore's been up to something an' arranged for that," Caleb gave an angry twist to his mouth.

"Ethan thought so too. He was forced to keep things low-key from then on, and... and I think this will interest you most; he found out about the planned acquisition of Hellshire just a little too late to inform you. This is why Ethan's so eager to protect you, now that you are back."

Caleb simply groaned and rolled his eyes again. "So, what exactly does this Mr Murdock want to protect me from? Bayshore's dead."

"You've been informed his body was never recovered from Hellshire?" Marshal Jacobs gave Caleb a scrutinizing look. "You have. Look, Ethan thinks Bayshore's gone for good, and so do I. But he had children who are just as bad as he was. And Ethan suspects that Bayshore's successor will want to settle some things."

"Tsk," Caleb shook his head. "I appreciate the concern, but I can very well look after meself."

The marshal and Miss Josie exchanged meaningful glances, and Miss Josie looked coldly at Caleb.

"Tell me what time it is, Quinn."

"...what? Noon, or something..."

"It's quarter past midnight, Quinn," Miss Josie said, picking up a different ball of yarn.

"Quarter past... Oh fuck you." With an exhausted groan Caleb sank deeper into the pillows.

"Look, Quinn, we both know ye would have shot the marshal wi'out second thought. Can't have that, what wi' him bein' here to save yer arse. So when the lass told me ye was all dizzy an' dozy, I put a lil' somethin' in yer coffee. Would have put it in yer whiskey if not fer that."

"And threw out the whole bloody bottle afterwards?" Caleb quirked a brow.

"Desperate times, desperate measures, Quinn. Would have put it on yer tab."

"How are we friends again?" Caleb groaned, "Heh, didn't ya just say I'd have shot him without second thought? What would ya've done if I hadn't keeled over jus' in time?"

"Oh, there been 'nough in that coffee to knock a normal man out before he'd reach them stairs. So I figured ye'd be out cold around the time ye reach fer yer iron." Josie puffed her chest proudly. "An' I been standing behind ye, just in case."

She grinned and Caleb grimaced, muttering several curses. Then he glared at the marshal again. "So, what does this Murdock think will happen?"

"He suspects they'll put Kelly on your trail. He's still alive and still has his gang. And got quite a bone to pick with you."

"The feeling is mutual, y'know," Caleb squirmed a little. "Look, the warning is appreciated, but I can look after meself, unless someone turns out to be some backstabbin' old hen."

Miss Josie smiled cockily. "Can a lass quell yer wrath by cookin' yer favourite later?"

Caleb pondered this. "If ya swear it's not poisoned."

"Swear it on yer cock," Miss Josie singsonged, making Caleb avoid the marshal's surprised gaze, before clearing his throat.

"Aye, that will do." He looked back at the marshal. "Tell me, Marshal, yer a man of the law, what can ya tell me 'bout Kelly's whereabouts?"

Marshal Jacobs licked his lips. "I thought you'd never ask. Last time anyone heard from Mason Kelly and his gang was little more'n a month ago, at the border to California."

"Heh. If Kelly's got any bit o' sense in his head he made off to Canada or Mexico as soon as he heard I'm back."

Miss Josie smiled knowingly at Caleb. "So when do ye expect him to show his face in Glenvale?"

"'Bout next Thursday."

The marshal chuckled at that and rose. And then his face hardened. "Do be careful, Mr. Quinn. It's only our guess at what will be done, but Ethan and I, we're fairly certain that it will be done."

Caleb exhaled in defeat. "Tell Mr. Murdock I'll heed his warning."

A nod. "I will. Good Night, Mr. Quinn." Another nod, this time at Miss Josie. "Miss Josie."

Moments ticked past after the marshal left.

"So," Caleb drawled. "Are ya going to untie me now? Me shoulders are getting sore."

Miss Josie smiled, put her knitting to the side and leaned over to undo the knots. Caleb sat up slowly, rubbing his wrists.

"What, no quips 'bout 'enjoying the view a bit longer'?" he teased, but his face quickly fell upon seeing Miss Josie looking so distressed. "C'mon, Josie, what's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"'Nothing' me fine Irish arse," he muttered. "The Josie McKee I know would've told anyone with such a yarn to go to Hell."

Miss Josie smiled a strained smile. "I almost did, Quinn. But..." She sighed.

"But?"

"Ye wanna know the truth? I'm worried fer ya." Miss Josie shook her head. "An' I don't mean in any 'Ye cannot watch yer own back all the time' thing." Slowly, and so carefully it made Caleb worry, Miss Josie sat down on the edge of the bed. "Listen, Quinn. Ye knows I come in here when ye sleep to see 'bout yer light," she nodded at the candle on the nightstand. "Ye almost burned down me establishment already."

Caleb blew a raspberry. "That was one time."

"Aye. But it's all I got. Me girls too."

"An' it's not even yours."

"Oh, tut." Miss Josie whacked her finger, "I'm keepin' an eye on it and I'm running it. At least till Newport shows his arse in Glenvale again, thank you very much."

This was greeted with an amused huff. "One of these days I'll figure where ya buried him."

"I didn't bury him." Miss Josie took a deep, sorrowful breath, and sought Caleb's eyes. "All joking aside, I'm really worried fer ya." She reached up to tug a strand of hair behind Caleb's ear, gently rubbing her thumb over his cheekbone. Caleb held his breath. There was maybe just one other thing Miss Josie could do to hammer home how dire she deemed the situation.

"Caleb." There it was. "Ye've been crying." Miss Josie shook her head. "I've never seen ye like that, but it scared me. An' ye wouldn't wake up when I tried. Are ye alright?"

Caleb squirmed a little, edging away from Josie. "Am fine," he mumbled. Miss Josie didn't buy it.

"Look at me," she said gently, caressing his cheek again. "I've known ye fer me whole life. I've seen yer best and worst. An' right now I see yer scared out o' yer wits."

Snapping his jaw back into place and biting his lip, Caleb looked away. He wasn't someone to let others on to what he was feeling (unless it was rage), but Miss Josie had always been one of the few people to see right through him. And she was right.

"How d'ya do that, Josie?" he murmured, still not looking at her.

"Known ye me whole life, just said so."

Caleb smiled halfheartedly. "Nightmares, that's all..." Again, Josie didn't buy it. For a moment, Caleb tried to stare her down, without any success. He sighed, looking away. "Ya know them nightmares where ya get so scared ya wake up cryin' only to realize how fuckin' silly yer brain's being? This wasn't one o' those."

Miss Josie shuffled a little closer, laying a gentle hand on his thigh.

"'Twas...," Caleb continued, struggling with finding the right words. "''Twas like I was remembering things, but that don't make sense."

"If ye want to talk 'bout it, I'm here."

Slowly, Caleb let himself fall back into the pillows, staring at the ceiling for a while.

"I was in this... something. Looked Japanese... And there was this lass. Black, weird clothing, like she was runnin' round in her bloomers..." Caleb ran a hand through his hair. "She was scared of me. And... I dunno, I think I tried to tell her I knows who she is. No... I did tell her. But... it was to calm her down, not to... She was so scared. And then there was this... thing...," he wriggled his fingers, "Like some fucking spider the size o' a house. An' it was angry. Like furious. At me. For... I think not killing that woman. I told it to go fuck itself, an'... how I knew what it did to me?"

Miss Josie gave his leg a gentle squeeze.

"Don't make much sense, does it?" Caleb said, forlorn. "But I feel like it happened. And then... something grabbed me, choked me, an'... things crawled under me clothes and...skin... and..." he absentmindedly reached into his shirt, tracing fingers over the new scars. "Then something went right through me chest... this thing's claw or somethin'. An' I knew I was in for something worse than death... but..."

"But?"

"Then this girl picked up me gun... Ya could see she never even held one... I think she wanted to help..."

"What happened?"

Caleb smiled wryly. "Put the spear right through me heart, she did." He patted his chest. "Last thing I heard was her shouting she's sorry, and there was this screech of betrayal and... I just wanted to be back home..."

Caleb bit back a sob, rubbing his arm over his eyes. Miss Josie gently pulled him into a hug and caressed his back while he buried his face against her neck. They sat like that for a while, until Caleb pulled back, taking a ragged, heavy breath.

"Look at me, soakin' yer dress crying me bloody eyes out. What would people think o' me?"

"That ye'd shoot their guts out if they go makin' a funny comment 'bout it."

Caleb gave a sniffling laugh, rubbing his eyes again.

"Prolly would. But... I'm not jokin'. That shite was fuckin' frightening." He pulled up his good leg, resting his head on the knee. "Josie?"

"Hmm?"

"D'ye think that's what happened when I was gone?"

"It doesn't sound real, does it?"

"...No... but..."

"Hey," Josie reached up to Caleb's cheek again, lifting his head to look at her. "All I know is ye was gone fer two years as if the earth opened up and swallowed ye whole. And then ye showed up just as suddenly. I think a lotta things are possible here."

Caleb nodded quietly, falling back into the pillows.

"Will ye let that keep ye down?" Josie smirked and got up.

"Heh, naw. It came fuckin' close, though." Caleb smiled softly, scratching his chest. "I'll need some time to wrap me head 'round it."

Josie nodded gently. "I think ye should try an' rest proper."

Caleb nodded back. "Guess so..." Then he remembered something. "Did any messages come in while I was out?"

"Oh. Aye." Josie took a small envelope from the nightstand and handed it over. "Aaron brought in a telegram fer ye."

With a suspicious glare Caleb inspected the envelope. Good, at least he could still trust Josie not to read his things. He tore the message open, reading.

"Well then," he finally murmured, scratching his head.

"Somethin' amiss, Quinn?"

Caleb looked up. "Nothin'. Just asked an old acquaintance for advice on something."

"Anything I should be worried 'bout?"

"Naw. But I'll be headin' to Omaha in a couple o' days. He wants t' meet with me."

"Yer back to yer ol' tricks, ain't ye?"

Caleb smirked wickedly. "Ya know best it's a good idea t' keep me busy."

Josie smiled back, nudged his shoulder and bid him goodnight.

Caleb turned the message over in his hands, pondering. To say that there was a lot on his mind was putting things mildly. He had planned to not tell anyone about that nightmare, but all things considered he felt... relieved? That Josie had known something was wrong. He knew he would have despised anyone else seeing him cry. But God knows it did frighten him, as nonsensical as that dream had been.

Nevertheless, his hand wandered under his shirt again, tracing the scars. It was impossible to have happened, wasn't it? He'd remember more of... anything that happened in the past two years if that had been the case, right?

He ran a hand through his hair and stared at the far corner, half expecting this thing from his nightmare to manifest from the shadows. It wasn't the relief he might have hoped for when it didn't.

All things considered, he'd have to wait and see about this matter. He focused on the message in his hand again.

Blayne wrote he'd meet Caleb in Omaha to tell him about this Mr. Wallace. And Caleb wondered if he hadn't bitten off more than he could chew.

Downstairs, the saloon was packed.

Miss Josie stood on the gallery, surveying the crowd below as per usual. She always had good judgment when it came to people, and at this hour of the night, being able to pick out the troublemakers was essential.

And tonight there were a few new faces she couldn't say she liked. Something about them set her on edge.

There was this guy in the dark poncho by the piano who tried a little too hard not to let anyone notice that his eyes were continuously flicking over the doors upstairs. And it wasn't 'cause he was deciding whether or not to get it on with one of the girls; Josie was certain about that.

Josie also felt someone's eyes on her the whole time she was in the main room, but couldn't spot the person looking at her. Which was worrisome.

"What's eating ya, Miss Josie?" someone asked next to her, and Miss Josie turned.

"Hey, Charlie. Funny seein' ye here."

"Wanna keep the one eye I got on Quinn, y'know," Charlie grinned, flipping a finger against his eye-patch after adjusting his clothes proper.

"Ye been in the wrong room fer that," Miss Josie grinned. "He's well. Hopefully sleepin' now."

Charlie nodded. "He's got that creepy aura 'round him since he's back."

Josie nodded. Charlie was one of those 'spiritualists', and sometimes he said things that made Miss Josie wonder if he wasn't on to something with all that.

"Don't he always have a 'creepy aura' 'round him?" Miss Josie quipped, and Charlie smiled.

"That's on account o' the things he does. No, I mean... he's got the devil on his back more than ever, it feels like."

"Yer gonna put down yer tarot cards fer him?"

"Not without his permission. Y'know it won't work well if he's not alright with it." Charlie gave Miss Josie a scrutinizing glance.

"What?"

"You're really worried 'bout something, Miss Josie."

Josie just wrinkled her nose. "Oh, take an inspired guess. Yer right, something's off with Quinn. But does that surprise ye? He's been gone fer two bloody years, an' now he shows up an' has no mem'ries of it whatsoever."

A nod. "Y'know how some folks say he jus' buggered off to New York or San Francisco for morphine or opium or something? Wonder what they'd be sayin' now."

"You go and ask 'em, Charlie; ye shoot three of 'em."

"Eh, don't think they'll be talkin' to me after that..."

Josie chuckled, and turned her attention to the crowd below again.

"Charlie?" she hushed.

"Hmm?"

"I need ye to keep yer eye on that bloke in the dark poncho by the piano."

"What he do?"

Josie explained, and Charlie furrowed his brows.

"Think he's after Quinn?"

"Would it surprise ye?" Josie drummed her fingers on the banister. "How many people got a bone t'pick with'im?"

"Enough to empty a fuckin' graveyard. Alright, I'll stay on his heels."

Nodding in thanks, Josie headed down to the bar. The night was still young.

Upstairs, Caleb tossed and turned in his bed, trying to get comfortable in at least the slightest bit and failing miserably. Maybe it was remembering that nightmare and trying to make sense of it; maybe it was something different, but something had set him on edge. Rather groggily he hobbled out of bed, checked the door and the windows, and finally reached for his revolver. Still loaded, all good to go.

With the weapon placed on the nightstand, Caleb laid back down, blowing out the candles. He had to focus on something else. Anything. His mind was a mess, and whatever Josie had put in his coffee still lingered in his system.

Yet he tried in vain. There wasn't much to think about when it came to this Mr. Wallace. He could always ask at the Post Office; maybe he should have done that to begin with. Did they have a marshal in Glenvale again? He had somehow managed not to check for it this entire time. If they had, maybe he could ask there, too, before heading to Omaha.

Though, maybe he shouldn't do any of that. Emmett Blayne wasn't a man of many words, and when someone like that asks you to meet him to discuss a matter, something's deeply amiss.

The other problem was Marshal Jacobs' warning, though that was the smaller one. If someone wanted to pick a bone with him, Caleb would be ready. Bayshore and his ilk weren't as clever as they thought, so there was a likely advantage. At least that problem was going somewhere.

With an annoyed grunt, Caleb turned over again, wincing briefly as pain shot up his leg. He's really ought to stop it with the sudden movements in bed. He grunted again and closed his eyes, nagging himself to get some sleep.

That was when he felt the cold breeze against his cheek and heard a window rattle.

His eyes shot open and he found himself outside an odd building, snow falling around him.

Caleb blinked, once, twice, before rubbing his eyes. He looked down at himself. He was fully dressed, his overcoat heavy with snow and the Redeemer in his hands. This was a dream, wasn't it? Sure, he could feel the breeze against his skin and the cold biting into his lungs with every breath, but ... This had to be a dream. Well, at least he had fallen asleep.

He looked around. And his brows furrowed.

He was standing at the open doors to a building unlike any he had ever seen before. Next to him stood some massive metal boxes he figured were meant for trash, at least if he interpreted the odd bags next to them correctly. Something in him wanted to investigate the material, but something else, something stronger, urged him on to do what he came here for.

No. Not 'came' here for. Was brought here for.

He stepped into the building, an unreal, flickering light illuminating narrow, tiled corridors, crammed with unadorned beds and wheelchairs. Was this some odd kind of hospital? He bent down to pick up something from the ground. A folder. Seems his hunch was right, this was a hospital, but...

His eyes fell on the date in the files. That couldn't be right...

Something made a bang down the corridor to the left, and he dropped the file, turning, half-curious as to what had caused that sound, half... taken over by an odd hunting instinct he'd never felt before when tracking down a mark. That had always just been business. This was like… a need.

Windows rattled in the cold air as he hobbled steadily along the empty halls; broken, loose tiles clicking under his boots. There was no one in sight as he came to stop at an odd contraption, an engine of sorts. Caleb wanted to reach out to touch it; to inspect it, but it was like his hands were glued to his gun.

Then he caught a movement from the corner of his eyes. So there was someone here, trying haphazardly to hide themself behind the dirty bed in the corner. Caleb wanted to prompt the person to come out, but his tongue disobeyed him. Instead, he stepped forward, eager to bring whoever was there to the ground.

A part of himself wondered why.

He lunged forward, taking the young man in hiding by surprise and slashing at his side with the gun's bayonet. The young man gasped out in pain, stumbling forward.

Caleb blinked, shocked. The guy couldn't be older than thirty, and by all means—as outlandish as his clothes looked—he was some sort of bank or post office clerk or something, maybe an accountant. Not really the kind of guy to have a bounty on his head.

What was going on?

The man took off.

Something urged Caleb on to give chase, and his feet seemed to move on their own, heading after the young man. Fingers twitching, Caleb raised his gun, and wanted to slap himself for it. There was no clear shot to be made here, and what had that guy done to begin with? Something told Caleb he had to hunt and... sacrifice the... meat...?

Caleb hesitated.

What sort of fuckin' shite was that?

He shook his head and, with all the willpower he could muster, lowered the gun just as the young man ducked into a doorway. Something roared in Caleb's ears, something angry.

And then there was another sound. A horn of some sort, and the roar grew angrier. Again his feet moved on their own, and he turned a corner. There was someone in front of him, and the sign made Caleb as angry as the roar in his ears did.

Bayshore.

No. Wait.

That was impossible, he told himself. And blinked. Bayshore's form shifted, flickered, and changed into a young woman, a really nice-looking one at that, with bare, tattooed arms and wearing next to nothing. Still the voice in Caleb's head tried to tell him that that was Bayshore.

What the fuck was going on?

Caleb edged closer to her, his hands raising his weapon on their own again. He tried to fight it; he wanted answers, not blood. The woman just stood and stared at him until he was maybe one or two steps away. Then she grabbed at something leaning against the wall, pulling it down, and Caleb felt a hard hit against his head.

He staggered and saw the woman run the other way through blurred vision. Some kind of alarm rang out, and he tried to steady himself, looking around, when he felt four sharp stings in his neck. He lost balance again and sank to his knees.

He couldn't breath.

The gun dropped from his hands, and he dug his fingers into his throat as if trying to pry something out of it.

Something was choking him.

He coughed, tried to cry out; but only a rasping gasp escaped his mouth. And then the lights around him grew darker.

For a moment he was certain he was losing consciousness, but the angry roar in his head made him realize that couldn't be the case.

This something was angry. Disappointed in him; in his performance. Dismayed at his disobedience. Displeased with his failure.

A dark, heavy fog rolled in, surrounding Caleb, engulfing him.

...No...

And the world around him twisted; the shadows grew, spider-like tendrils bearing down on him, intent on tearing him apart and worse...

He woke with a choked gasp.

Rain drummed against the windows, running down the glass in thick drops, and Caleb laid on the floor, wrapped in his blanket with a horrible pain in his head. Sitting up carefully, he reached for his forehead, and hissed in pain as his fingers touched a bloody spot. The blood on the nightstand explained the rest.

That was going to be a headache for a while.

Caleb gave himself a quick check to see if the wound was worse than it looked, and finding that he was otherwise fine—no cuts or anything on his throat—he pulled himself onto the bed again. He'd still have the doc take a look at his head. Better safe than sorry.

He waited for a moment to see if anyone would come to check on him, and let out a soft sigh when that wasn't the case. 'Twas likely too early in the morning. The rain made it impossible to tell, and Caleb had forgotten to wind up his pocketwatch the night before.

With another sigh, he slowly laid back down.

He'd had a lot of weird dreams in the past, but this one... Something about it... scared him. The place; the people; the pain... and again... that ungodly, otherworldly spider thing.

[artificialqueens]

Study Break (Branjie) -Peridot

A/N: I don’t really know where this came from, and it’s a little late seeing exam season is over for most people, but here’s a fluffy teen Branjie au that is partially based off of a friend of mine. Sorry if it seems a little rushed. Let me know what you think of this lil story (either here or on my side blog @peridot-aq). Hope you enjoy!

It was about 3am when Brooke realised that her back was hurting.

It was no surprise to her. After all, she’d been sitting in close to the exact same position since about 11 the previous morning- bent over the small desk in her bedroom, trying to cram years worth of information into her brain all at once. And she had been bent over for a similar amount of time the day before. And the day before that. And the day before that.

What was more surprising was that she was only noticing the pain now. She supposed she’d been too distracted by Henry the Eighth and all six of his wives to notice.

She stood up and stretched out her arms, trying to ease the discomfort slightly when she heard her phone buzz. It took her by surprise, and she jumped slightly at the sudden noise of the vibrations against the wooden desk. She tapped on her phone and read the short message that illuminated the screen.

V: mandatory text to make sure you’re not still studying

Brooke smiled to herself. Vanessa knew her too well. It wasn’t the first time she’d caught her revising into the depths of the night. She decided not to reply -favouring ignoring the text to facing Vanessa’s inevitable disappointment- but another persistent message came through a few seconds after.

V: I can see you’ve read it, bitch Shit. In her sleep-deprived state, that hadn’t occurred to Brooke. She quietly chuckled as she pattered out a quick reply.

B: …oops?

V: BROOKE LYNN HYTES I SWEAR TO GOD V: call me Brooke pushed in her office chair and flopped onto her bed, finally giving in and abandoning her hours of work. She felt guilty in doing so, as if she was betraying her own ambitions in favour of a phone call with a friend. But, God knows that Brooke needed that phone call to set her straight.

She quickly scrolled through her contacts, finding Vanessa’s name towards the bottom of the list accompanied by several purple heart emojis that Vanessa had added when she’d put her number into the phone. She tapped ‘call’, the sound of Vanessa’s loud voice filling Brooke’s ears after just one ring.

“Bitch, why the hell are you awake!”

Brooke’s phone wasn’t on speaker, but the sheer volume of Vanessa shouting down the phone was enough to fill the silence of her bedroom.

“Keep it down a little, my parents are asleep.”

“You should be too, bitch! I’ve told you before to give yourself a break, you’re gonna burn yourself out if you keep doing this.”

Although Brooke knew that Vanessa was right (and she was already feeling the effects of weeks of revision taking a toll on her body), she still made a weak attempt to defend her decision. “I’m just really stressed out about history, I don’t know anything and my parents will kill me if I don’t get an A.”

“You know that’s not true. They love you, they’ll be proud of you no matter what, you know that. And there’s no way in hell you don’t know anything. You haven’t left your damn house in like two weeks!”

“Hey, I went grocery shopping yesterday!”

Vanessa cursed on the other side of they phone, making Brooke smile. “That doesn’t count.”

“Uh, it a hundred percent does. I was out of the house and I got a two for one deal on strawberry laces, thank you very much.”

Vanessa’s laughter crackled from Brooke’s phone, echoing in the silence of her dark bedroom. Her laugh was wild and addictive, making Brooke chuckle quietly to herself alongside her.

“You better have saved some for me.”

“Sorry V, they’re all gone.”

“Thought you got two for one?”

“I ate both of them earlier,” Brooke announced almost proudly. “I can’t believe you would doubt my ability to eat two full packets in a day. That really hurts my feelings, you know.”

“I hate you,” she joked, Brooke able to clearly picture the eye roll that most likely accompanied Vanessa’s words. “Tell you what, though- I’ll buy you another packet if you come on a picnic with me tomorrow.”

Brooke sighed. “I can’t do tomorrow, I have to study.”

“No you don’t, bitch. You’ve been studying 24/7, you probably have the whole textbook memorised.”

“But it’s my last exam and it’s in less than a week and if I put in the hard work now then maybe down the road I’ll be-“

“Fuck hard work. You deserve a break. And it’s only a picnic, it’s not like I’m getting you wasted.”

Brooke paused for a moment, feeling a dull pang of guilt in her stomach as she let herself be convinced by Vanessa. “Fine. But I’m only coming out for a couple hours, no longer.”

“Yay! Be at mine for like 12, “ Vanessa gushed, her happiness very apparent from just a subtle change in her vocal timbre.”I knew you’d come around to it.”

“Hey, I’m only coming for the strawberry laces.”

Vanessa couldn’t manage to suppress her laughter on the other end of the line, a warm buzz in Brooke’s ear. “Whatever, bitch. Now get some damn sleep.”

Brooke wished she could say that she slept well that night.

The next morning Brooke’s tired eyes fluttered open at 10am, her head weighing her down like a paperweight as she tried to sit up against the headboard. She rubbed her eyes, blinking as her eyes adjusted to the light streaming through her curtains. Her head was cloudy. It still swirled with waves of fatigue that still remained after a poor night’s sleep, full of stress and worry and seemingly endless hours of staring at the ceiling. She was so fucking tired. Even if she had gone to sleep at a reasonable hour, her fears of failure would have been enough to disturb her rest. Each heavy blink willed her to give in to her exhaustion and let her head fall back onto the pillow, each yawn pulling her back into unconsciousness for just a moment. But, checking the time on her phone, she managed to convince herself to get up. She had plans, after all. The first plans she’d had in weeks.

She swung her feet onto the cold wooden floor and stretched her arms far above her head, feeling dizziness wash over her for a second or two before the blood rushed back to her brain. As she stretched she once again became acutely aware of the discomfort in her back. She’d have to get someone to check that out.

Her feeling of tiredness followed her as she took a shower, the warm water that broke over her head only lulling her back into relaxation. It followed her as she got dressed, as she tied up her still wet hair into a ponytail, and as she swiped concealer over her the purple circles under each of her eyes, her body feeling worn out and weary the whole morning.

As she started to make her way out of her bedroom her eye caught her desk, littered with pink and green flash cards and textbooks and crumpled paper. The neon highlighters that were scattered on its wooden surface seemed aggressively bright in her sleep-deprived state. An impulse told her to sit down, grab a pen and start her cycle of work over again, but thoughts of Vanessa pulled her out of the trance, convincing her it was a bad idea. So, she waltzed through her bedroom door, any hope of productivity abandoned, for a few hours at least.

She gathered her keys, sunglasses and a few coins into a small bag and quickly grabbed a punnet of strawberries and a jar of Nutella from the fridge- a poor excuse for a picnic contribution but the best she could do so last minute- and tossed them into an old plastic bag. She scribbled out a note on a scrap piece of paper telling her parents where she’d gone, and with only a small amount of guilt, left the house.

Brooke knocked on Vanessa’s door, now feeling not only groggy but also hungry, realising she’d skipped breakfast. Her solution was clear, however, when Vanessa arrived at the door with a very large basket bundled up in her arms, tin foil wrapped packages practically spilling out from underneath the lid. She greeted Brooke with a warm smile and yelled out a goodbye to her mother inside the house before stumbling down the front step, the large basket in danger of toppling her over.

Vanessa set the basket on the ground and threw her arms around Brooke, her excitement discordant with Brooke’s fatigue. Brooke leaned into the embrace, resting her cheek against Vanessa’s dark hair as she squeezed her waist and nuzzled into the taller girl’s shoulder.

“Hey, sis. You ready?” Vanessa asked, breaking the hug to attempt to lift the huge basket once again.

“Yup,” Brooke replied with a nod. “You need a hand with that?”

“Please.”

Brooke bent down and hauled it up and onto her shoulder, straining slightly under its sheer weight but insisting to Vanessa that it wasn’t a problem. “You went a little overboard with the food,V. We’re never gonna eat all that.”

“What can I say, my mamma’s Latina, she likes to cook,” Vanessa giggled as the two started to walk down the street.

They strolled together for a few minutes until they reached a small park nearby Vanessa’s neighbourhood. Red-painted fences surrounded the area, complete with flower beds and cobbled paths and grass that seemed too green and too striking to be real. Vanessa picked a spot underneath a large tree, branches and blossoms and hundreds of green leaves providing a little shade from the bright July sunshine. She dug into the basket which Brooke had quickly discarded onto the ground and produced a blue tartan blanket, attempting several times to spread it out onto the grass without it folding underneath itself. Brooke laughed, enjoying the visual of the small girl wrestling with the fabric. When Vanessa finally succeeded (after a few profanities and a little help from Brooke), the two climbed onto the blanket, Vanessa leaning against the tree and Brooke sitting cross-legged opposite her.

“Oh, almost forgot,” Vanessa mumbled. Brooke watched her reach into her back pocket before tossing a red packet her way, hitting her square in the face and making Vanessa chuckle.

The strawberry laces.

“I’m a woman of my word.”

Brooke laughed to herself as she was reminded of their deal. “Thanks, bitch.”

The sweets were quickly forgotten, however, as the two dove into the basket Vanessa’s mother had prepared. Brooke’s Nutella and strawberries were abandoned in the bottom of her bag, easily replaced by homemade burritos and croissants with jam and sandwiches. She ate as much as she could, savouring each rich taste on her tongue, until she was sure she couldn’t eat anymore. Despite the two having barely made a dent in Vanessa’s stash, they were both satisfied, Brooke becoming even more tired as a result.

They talked a little more, basking under the heat of the sun, their conversation turning back to school and exams.

“I’m really happy you’re taking a break, bitch.”

“I guess I am too. I like spending time with you.”

Vanessa flashed her a grin, her nose scrunching up at the compliment. “Good. You deserve some time to yourself, you’ve been stressing yourself out.”

“Yeah, I have. It’s been hell. Bending over my desk has started to hurt my back, too.” Brooke laughed at her statement, but Vanessa seemed less than pleased.

“Hold up, bitch. You’re telling me you’ve been studying enough to make your back hurt?”

Brooke bit her lip, holding back a laugh at seeing Vanessa get worked up. “Yeah, but it’s not a big deal.”

“Yes it is, Miss Brooke Lynn! Exams are bad enough for your mental health, I can’t have your physical health getting fucked up too.”

Brooke couldn’t help but giggle a little, failing to see the importance of Vanessa’s point. “I’m fine, V, really.”

“Oh no you’re not. That’s it. C’mere. I’m giving you a back massage.”

Brooke’s small giggle grew into a full belly laugh, finding the idea of Vanessa karate chopping into her back a very comedic prospect. Regardless, Vanessa pulled Brooke’s wrist until she had manoeuvred her to lean back against her, her own back still resting on the tree trunk.

Vanessa’s first movements were tentative and gentle grips onto Brooke’s shoulders, making her shift and wriggle, unable to suppress her fits of giggles. Vanessa became increasingly frustrated at her for not taking it seriously, which only made Brooke want to wind her up more. She was cute when she agitated.

“Brooke Lynn Hytes I swear….. quit squirming, bitch, this is supposed to be relaxing!”

She smirked to herself. “I am relaxed. You seem to be pretty worked up, though.”

“Shut up already.”

“You can’t make me,” Brooke teased.

In one quick motion Vanessa pushed Brooke up slightly and leaned over her, her face hovering centimetres above Brooke’s. Without warning she pressed a kiss into her lips. Brooke’s heart jumped in surprise, all of her senses going into overdrive. It was unexpected, addictive, exciting, and made Brooke want to hold her close like she’d never thought about before. She was suddenly aware of the beauty of her the girl in front of her- dark eyes and golden skin, the softness of her cheek and her hair against her skin, and the perfect cherry lips that were connected to her own. She relaxed into the kiss, closing her eyes and deepening it for just a second before Vanessa pulled away, the heart-stopping moment ending two seconds after it had started.

That shut her up, alright.

She found a smile creeping onto her face, mirrored by Vanessa’s own grin. Her mind was buzzing, unable to form a coherent sentence but willing her to speak, to say something. “Vanessa… you should’ve, I… I didn’t know-“

“Shush, not now baby. We can talk about it later. Now I just want you to relax, okay?” Vanessa spoke softly in her ear, bringing Brooke down from the electric moment with a hand on her hair.

Brooke found her tired body leaning back against Vanessa almost subconsciously, this time appreciating the comfort and safety of Vanessa’s arms around her as she resumed her rubbing on her back. Any thoughts of exams or stress were forgotten. Instead, her thoughts were consumed by Vanessa. She focused on everything around her, trying to take in as much as she could and commit the experience to memory.

The smell of grass and fresh air and Vanessa’s perfume.

The sound of the wind and the leaves and Vanessa’s words in her ear.

The feeling of the sun on her skin and Vanessa’s right hand on her shoulder and her left stroking her hair.

The cherry taste of Vanessa’s lips still lingering on hers.

And before she knew it, her heavy eyelids fluttered closed and she slipped into a dream, finally giving in to the tiredness that had been with her all day. Vanessa held her close and planted a small kiss on the top of Brooke’s head.

“Sleep well, Brooke.”

[outerspaceisbetterthannothing]

Hit me with some alpha Calum!!! Intimidating alpha Cal who takes no shit and would do anything for those he loves. And just like. Fuck me up I guess!! Thanks!!!

Eve, i love you so much!!! thank you for this ask!!! 😭😭😭 i hope that’s what you hoped it to be (if not just msg me and i’ll continue with alpha!cal until you’re satisfied)

Okay, as i’m deep in the world of “the girl who cried wolf”, let’s stay there. I mentioned in the fic, there are some southern packs in this area, and let’s just say they sometimes give Cal and Ash a bit of a headache, cause they are pretty savage. But Cal is always there to protect his pack (and Ash’s pack, and simple humans, neighbourhood old ladies’ cats, he’s just an ultimate protector, fight me on that). So there’s this lil family in his pack, a girl of 19-20, her younger sis, let’s say 11-12, and their lil brother of 5. Their parents are not in the picture, so pack is taking care of them and Cal takes it as his full personal responsibility.

One night at some pack gathering Cal sees the older sister (shall we name her? i like the name Gabbie) being sad and a little distant from the mutual fun. But he also knows that Gabbie in a million years won’t tell him what’s her problem if he just comes up to her and ask. He likes Gabbie, she’s strong and honest and loyal. She hasn’t ascended yet, so they don’t know her place in an hierarchy and it makes it so much easier for Cal to talk to her. But she’s also proud and stubborn as hell and hates how much of a burden for the pack her family is (even tho they are not a burden), so she won’t ever admit to him something is wrong. But Cal would be an awful alpha if he’d just let it be. So he comes up to one of the oldest she-wolves in the pack, the wise old lady he’s looking up at more like a grandma and asks her to talk to Gabbie. He himself joins his purebloods and they’re just drinking beer and have fun, being all young and joking around. And no one would say, alpha isn’t relaxed and having his much deserved rest, as no one would see how he follows Gabbie and that old she-wolf talking.

Soon he knows, that in the local college Gabbie attends she came across some asshole from the southern packs. She didn’t think much of it, until she saw her standing on the corner of her street some days after that. She shoves her younger siblings back in the house, even tho they are begging to play outside, and lock all the doors and windows in the house. She starts seeing him in the town more and gets really scared for both, herself and her younger sister. Everyone knows, southern packs often steal women from other packs, and even sometimes kids. But she doesn’t want to bother the pack with it, too thankful for what they’ve already done and feeling shy to ask for more.

Calum sighs as one of his betas tells him about this situation. She acts like a true stubborn she-wolf, but forgets she’s just a little girl. He doesn’t wait any time and calls Ash to ask for couple of his betas for a week or so. He needs someone to look after Gabbie while she’s at school or running errands, but he can’t use any of his wolves, as she’ll understand and get offended.

This evening is a complete madness for Gabbie. It all starts with a nock on her front door. She feels her blood freeze in her veins, thinking it’s that southern wolf. But before she can stop her younger sister, the girl is already at the door. But the man standing at the door surprises Gabbie even more, cause it’s her alpha, with the bags from local chinese restaurant.

“Alpha?” Gabby said, not really getting what was going on. Calum just shrugged, as Gabbie’s younger brother was already jumping on him, yelling “uncle Cal!”

Cal said something about not wishing to dine alone, so Gabbie gave in, going back in the kitchen and starting to set the table. They often had other wolves pay an impromptu visits like then. Old family friend, Cal’s purebloods and even alpha himself. It wasn’t too out of character for him to show up on her porch with a bag full of takeaways, so Gabbie talked herself in not reading much into it. The dinner went fine, her little sister was smiling and chatting about her school projects and they all were obliged to play her brother’s new game after the dinner. Calum did stay a little longer than usual, up to the time of getting kids to bed and made Gabbie promise she won’t stay up for too late reading for classes before he left. It wasn’t a completely odd evening, but still Gabbie couldn’t shake this strange feeling out of her.

The next evening everything repeated. The third night Calum came the same time as the pizza guy and stopped Gabbie from paying. She knew now there was a reason for his visits and was afraid to know it.

On the fourth day he came much earlier with paper bags from the grocery shop and said they could cook something this time. He agreed on Gabbie’s help while her sister was finishing her school work on the other side of the kitchen island and her brother was painting a picture for his daycare. They cooked pasta and had a lovely chat about Gabbie’s college and her plans for after she graduates. Later at night, as they finished with the dinner and kids went upstairs to get ready for school and Cal and Gabbie had a pretty heated but whispered argument about him not helping her with dishes, they settled back at the table.

“Do you, maybe, want wine?” Gabby asked carefully, feeling awkwardness rise inside.

“You have wine?” Calum asked in surprise. He’s never seen Gabbie drink even beer.

She shrugged. “Mom always said there should be at least one bottle of good wine in the house, just for the occasion.”

“Your mom was a wise woman,” Calum nodded. “But thank you, maybe later.”

Gabby sneaked a look at the clock behind Calum. It was almost eleven, was he about to stay even later? Before she could form any crazy idea in her head, his phone vibrated shortly. Alpha looked at the screen and stood up.

“If you’ll excuse me, I need to leave your for the moment.”

Gabbie followed him suit, but had to stop on her porch. In the middle of a road, right in front of the house stood all Cal’s purebloods, two were holding the wolf stalking Gabbie last couple weeks. “You better stay in the house,” alpha said, looking at her over his shoulder and ran down the steps.

“Do you know whose territory you’re at?” he asked the wolf. His voice was low, almost a roar, full of anger.

The wolf just spit on the ground in front of Calum. Alpha smirked. He loved when they were so stupid to disrespect him. It made his job so fucking much easier. He shrugged out of his jacket and motioned to his purebloods to let go of the bastard. Before the wolf got an idea of what’s gonna happen next, Calum’s fist met his jaw with such force that the guy was on the pavement in no time. Alpha bent down and put the wolf up by his throat.

“Here’s how it’s gonna be,” he said in the same low and facke calm voice. “I’m gonna make a piece of meat out of you right now for even looking at one of my she-wolves. Then my men will drive you to some pit they’ll like and leave you there. Whether you die or not doesn’t bother me at all. But if you do survive and even try to come to Gabriel or any other of my wolves any closer than 10 miles, I’m gonna come back and kill you that time.”

Gabbie knew she shouldn’t have looked at what was happening next, but she couldn’t turn away. She was a wolf and that was her alpha protecting her. She had to see it. Alpha’s fists were fast and direct. She could hear only flesh meeting flesh, and the wolf spitting blood and groaning from time to time. When finished, Calum just stood up, leaving the wolf’s senseless body for his purebloods. He and one more of his men came up to Gabbie’s porch and stopped in front of her.

“I would like to wash my hands, if you don’t mind,” alpha told her, looking her directly in the eyes. He was asking her permission to come to her house and it literally blew young girl’s mind away. She just stepped aside, letting them both inside. Pureblood left Calum’s jacket on her sofa and left the house, while Calum was busy washing away blood from his knuckles in her kitchen sink.

“Thank you, alpha,” Gabbie said simply.

He hummed, turned off the water and looked around her kitchen.

“Where did you say the wine is?”

“The cupboard on your right.”

He found a bottle, poured himself a glass, looked at Gabbie in question, but she just shook her head. He sat back on his place at the dining table, took a sip and gestures the girl to sit opposite.

“The first thing you have to understand, Gabbie,” he said in a quiet voice, which enveloped Gabbie like soft velvet, “is that I’m your alpha.”

“I know that,” she blurted.

“Obviously, you don’t,” he sighed, taking another sip, his knuckles still red from punching. “I’m not just a family friend, not kind neighbour and not a friendly uncle. I am your damn alpha. And your safety, just like safety of your family and every other family in the pack, is my job. I was chosen to do this job by the wolves of the pack. And your father was one of those wolves. If anything threatens you, or you think it threatens you, you come to me. You don’t think you’d be able to deal with it yourself and you don’t wait till i ask someone to talk to you about it to get information i should have heard from you. Anything threatening you, threatens the whole pack. And you should come to me with that yourself.”

“I’m sorry, alpha,” Gabbie answered quietly, nervously playing with her fingers.

“Don’t be sorry, pup. Just learn from your mistake and never repeat it in the future,” he said, his tone even softer than before. “Your life hasn’t been easy on you lately, and I know your siblings made you too mature for your age. But you’re not only their sister, you’re a wolf. You’ll ascend soon and take your rightful place in the pack, and then mate with one of my purebloods and become the right hand of my mate. It’s time for you to start acting like a wolf you are.”

“How do you know?” Gabbie asked in a shaken voice couple minutes later. Alpha frowned, not getting what she was talking about. “How do you know i’ll become all this? You don’t know the wolf before he ascends.”

Calum smiled, finishing his wine. “I know the breed when i see a wolf,” he simply answered. The stood up, thanked Gabbie for a wonderful wine, picked up his jacked and wished her a good night.

But Gabbie didn’t go to her room and stayed in the kitchen for much longer than she should have, just looking at the chair her alpha had sat on and the glass her alpha had drunk from. She knew she had close to no chance to ascend as an omega, being the daughter of two purebloods, and knew her alpha had never even tried to mate any omega from their pack. But she’d lie if she said the only feeling she had for Calum that night was a wolf’s loyalty to her alpha.

Come talk to me about alpha!Cal or anything in the world really!

[looselucy]

Candour

December 31st Me and the girls were wrapped up tight as we made our way to The Royal Rose where we planned to bring in the New Year, our arms linked with me firmly in the middle, searching for as much warmth as possible. “It’s so cold I can feel my toes dropping off.” Chloe shuddered.

The lot of us had been debating all week which pub we should spend the evening in, and it had been such a tiring deliberation that it was difficult to believe we only had three options to choose from in the first place. We’d finally reached the decision that The Royal Rose was the place to be, mainly because we knew it was the least tame option of the three, and we wanted to make a night of it. An inordinate amount of time had been spent drinking over the past week, and we wanted to end the year in the same way. When we got inside, the lads were already there, already drinking, Harry already behind the bar serving up drinks like he bloody owned the place. “Here they are!” Niall greeted cheerily. “Harold, more drinks.” “I’m on it!” He complied, scrambling for a few clean glasses. I had my eyes trained on Harry as he got to work, seeming as happy as ever. In spite of the fact I’d seen plenty of him, both on our own and with everyone else, we’d barely acknowledged what had happened the week before, the damage the storm had done, the way I’d looked after him. The morning after, when we’d woken up side by side on Christmas Day, he’d apologised for what happened, how he’d reacted, and I’d told him there was nothing to be sorry for, and I’d asked why it had happened. All he’d told me was that he’d had that fear for years and he couldn’t help it. I knew that would be the best I’d get out of him. I still hadn’t quite come to terms with the way it had made me feel, the desperation I’d felt, the ache of it, how seeing him in such distress and so petrified and distressed had done things to my heart that I could hardly fathom. I’d never felt so powerless and yet so protective of someone. I had wanted to terminate his pain in any way I could, I was still haunted by the sight of him. The whole thing had been extremely unexpected, so strange to see from this boy who I knew to be so strong. He hadn’t let it affect him since. We hadn’t spoken about it, he didn’t seem bothered; in fact, he acted as though it hadn’t happened at all. I’d done the same, almost to humour him, but it had been playing on my mind relentlessly. His physical scars may have been dominant, things he couldn’t disguise, but I knew that he was hiding scars, harmful memories that were now phantoms that appeared in thunderous clouds and bolts of light, entirely out of his control. I’d been approaching him softly for a week now. I was sure he was sick of it. “Hey.” I smiled at him as I sat on one of the stools at the bar. “Y’alright?” He asked cheerily, pulling me a pint. “Yeah, good. You?” “Yeah, sick. Lin’s trying to persuade Gina to get the karaoke machine out.” “Of course he is.” I tutted, looking over my shoulder to see him chatting up the landlady, then turning to look at Niall. “And how’re you?” “Good, yeah, trying to convince Louis to kiss me at midnight.” “Louis, eh?” I smiled. “Thought you’d be trying your luck with Harry.” “He’s my second option, if Louis says no.” “Fuck you, I’m no second best.” Harry sniggered, passing me my drink. “So I stand a chance? Okay, I choose you then!” Niall attempted, wide eyes. “Too late now. This ship has sailed.” “Fuck.” Niall sulked, slamming his hand against the bar. I knew I wanted to kiss Harry at midnight, I just didn’t know how to go about it. I wasn’t used to kissing him without there being the opportunity for things to go further, and that meant usually when we kissed it was somewhat intense. Me and Harry weren’t really good at keeping things tame. I knew it’d be different, if I was to kiss him in public, we’d have to keep it short and sweet and pretend it was utterly platonic, just someone to kiss at midnight, casual, easily dismissible, but I really wanted to kiss him, more than I was admitting at the time. I always wanted to kiss him, really. That special midnight would be no different. It was just the perfect excuse. Lin bounced over to the bar a few seconds later, looking very pleased with himself, which lead me to believe that karaoke was on the cards. “Bro, I’d get out from behind the bar,” He said to Harry. “People are starting to think you work here. A very nice lady who’s at least eighty just asked Gina when you got the job here and what your number is.” “Send her over.” He was smirking, as charming as ever. “Maybe I’ll kiss her at midnight since Niall isn’t interested.” “I’m going to find Louis!” He cried. “Damn it, I am kissing someone tonight!” Lin picked up his pint and flung his other arm over my shoulder. I noticed the look on Harry’s face immediately, the way his eyes darted between us, how he nodded suggestively, as though trying to reinforce that his predictions about Lincolns feelings towards me were correct. I wanted to give him the middle finger, but I didn’t want Lin to notice. The conversation was tedious enough without getting him involved, making something awkward when it needn’t have been. “Who’re you kissing at midnight?” Harry asked him directly, with a smug smile that I’d have loved to wipe off his face, if only I knew how. “No one, I don’t think.” Thankfully, he wasn’t clocking on. “Anyone you want to?” “Lupita Nyong'o if I’m being picky, but I doubt she’s here.” I don’t know what Harry was expecting, really, that Lin would announce randomly that he wanted to kiss me when clearly that wasn’t the case. What was frustrating me most was that I couldn’t tell if he was being that way through jealousy, or if he was egging it to happen, trying to spark something between us. I really couldn’t tell. All I knew was that it was getting really old, really quickly.

“We should kiss at midnight.” I spoke quietly to Harry, biting my lip to contain my smile. He seemed puzzled, glancing to his side where I was practically hovering over his shoulder, his brows low, eyes sceptical. “What?” “We should kiss at midnight.” I said again. “M’not sure that’s the best idea.” He muttered. “Why?” “I thought you wanted to keep this a secret.” “I’m not asking to fuck you at midnight, it’s just a kiss.” He sniggered, looking back out to the room rather than at me, only minutes from midnight. I’d sort of known there’d be the possibility of him not feeling too eager about my plan, but I was willing to try and coax him into it. All I knew was that the thought of bringing in the new year and seeing people around us embracing but not kissing him just didn’t feel right to me. “I dunno, Fee. I just think it’d be too weird. One of them lot would see and read into it, and next thing you know, everything we do is under a magnifying glass. Maybe they’d… start asking questions. We don’t need that, we’re doing good. It’s more stress than it’s worth.” “What if I pout.” I rested my chin on his shoulder with some difficulty, my bottom lip protruding. “Beg?” “You’re something else.” “Kiss me.” I sulked. “Don’t push it.” “A lil smooch.” “It’s not happening.” He chuckled, shaking his head. “You know I’m right.” I didn’t care that he was right. The gang were all a little drunk and were bound to be too rowdy and distracted to notice me and Harry sharing a brief kiss, one that was bound to be uninteresting. I thought the coaxing would be easier, to be honest. “Harry-” “Please leave it, Fee.” “But-” “I don’t want to!” He almost snapped at me before sighing and rolling his eyes. “I’m trying to do the sensible thing here. Can you let me do that?” I was practically scowling without meaning to, removing my chin from his shoulder, taken aback. I hadn’t meant to create this weird hostile environment, but how the hell was I supposed to know suggesting a simple kiss would put him in such a sour mood. I distanced from him, taking a step away, and the last thing I wanted to do was argue with him, again, but his tone had shrivelled my good mood completely. Before I lost my cool, I took a second, taking in where we were and how inappropriate it would be to exchange foul words with the boy, not that I wanted to anyway, but I felt like something had changed recently; my temperament,  the way things were between us. I kept thinking about what had happened the other week, how we’d argued when I’d seen that upstairs room, and I’d really not wanted to feel that way again, to be angry at him over something that was really nothing, but I couldn’t help myself. Feeling irrational, I thought on my feet, my conclusion questionable. “Alright, maybe I’ll kiss Lin then.” “Fine, do.” He shot foully, but he didn’t look at me, jaw wound tight. I had no plans to kiss Lin, and I knew he had no plans to kiss me, but I was hoping for a reaction, something from him. I stormed away from Harry and went and nestled myself into the side of Lincolns body, being greeted as naturally as I’d expected, friendly, normal. I glanced back over my shoulder so I could drink in the vulgar look on Harry’s face, but I didn’t care. There was this part of me that was really starting to believe the reason he’d been pushing this thing with Lin was because he could feel himself getting close to me, and he wanted distance. He wanted to create this thing that wedged a gap between us, and I almost couldn’t blame him. What with everything that had happened with my family, seeing that room, seeing what the storm had done to him the week before, things had changed. Things were no longer simple and fun between us, it had gone further than that, and I felt like he was running. It only hit me then that I did not want to run away from it, I wanted to run right into it. It seemed me and Harry had started on the same page and ended worlds apart. I’d been sweeping things under the rug for months and all that had done was create a mountain of secrets that I kept finding myself tripping over no matter how much I tried to avoid it. When the sixty second countdown began, there were tears in my eyes, my stomach twisting, my lips trembling. I felt really fucking sad. I was glad everyone was too distracted by the countdown they’d put on the TV in the top corner of the room, because I could feel myself getting worked up and I had no excuse as to why I was crying, no explanation behind what the hell was going on in my head. I tried to hold it in. I tried so hard to take that feeling and place it under the rug with everything else but I couldn’t. I’d hit my limit. We were just about to reach the ten second mark when it became too much. My vision was blurred and my heart was racing and the inside of my stomach was mangling. I couldn’t bare it. I tried to slyly slip out of the group, needing air. “Alf, where’re you going?” Niall asked. “You’re gunna miss it!” “I’m just feeling anxious, I need air. Don’t worry!” I yelled back to him, to which he nodded understandingly, and let me go, not wanting to miss the moment. I paced towards the back door, hoping to get out into the smoking area to give myself a few minutes of alone time, turning the corner, virtually inches away from the door when I felt a pair of hands on my waist. I could barely make sense of what was happening as Harry backed me up against the wall and started kissing me the very second it hit midnight, loud hollering and celebrations sounding off in the background as he pushed his body against mine, his hands gripping at my jaw, his tongue swaying with mine.  He was zealous, strong, passionate enough to dry my tears before they’d fallen. It was more than I’d wanted, not just the kiss but the abundance of feelings I could feel it inspiring. The sensation I experienced when he kissed me then was unlike anything I’d felt before, entirely overpowering, completely coaxing. I didn’t know if the reason he was kissing me was because he’d found himself being jealous or because he realised that he fucking needed to, that I was his to kiss and he wanted me, needed me. I actually hoped it was the latter. As things began to mollify, he kissed at my bottom lip a few more times before stopping completely, my jaw still cupped in his large hands and his face still just inches from mine. “Are you happy now?” He asked bluntly. I hated those words. I hated what they said to me. I hated how he presented it like he’d done me a favour, like the actual only reason he’d wanted to kiss me was to shut me up, stop my nagging. I looked back up to him, and once again I felt like I was fighting tears. He seemed so fucking clueless. “No.” I simply replied, my brows sinking low, my patience at its end.

Despite the copious amount of drinks I’d had, I hadn’t managed to get drunk. I think my mood had been so foul since midnight that it just couldn’t happen for me. I hadn’t spoken or even really acknowledged Harry since that kiss. It was almost four in the morning, and other than one lone man in the corner and Gina behind the bar, me and Niall were the last two standing. Well, sitting. Everyone had dwindled gradually, through exhaustion or vomiting, in Chloe’s case. I hadn’t even needed to tell Harry that I didn’t want to stay at his or have him at mine, despite the fact that was how we’d planned to spend the night, because he could tell. He knew I was angry, whether he fully understood why or not, at least he’d given me the space I so clearly desired. I was no mood. I was glad to be out of his company. For months, I’d been stupid enough to ignore my instincts and disregard all the signs that things were too complicated, that we’d let it go on for too long. We’d continued to overlook things that we really shouldn’t have, and it needed to stop. “You had fun?” I asked Niall, who looked like he could’ve been asleep. “Aye. Always have fun with you lot.” He kept his eyes closed, slouching a little further down in his chair. “How about you? Are you alright? Did you have a nice time?” “Yeah it was nice, wasn’t it.” “Sorry you were feeling so shit just as it was getting to midnight. You better now?” “Yeah, m’fine, it was nothing really. Y’know what I’m like, just got a bit worked up.” “Did Harry go and check on ya?” “Uh, yeah.” I lied. “Yeah, he kept me company.” “Good lad that one.” I mumbled in agreement, dropping my eyes down to the beer soaked table-top, and although my evening with Harry hadn’t necessarily been a good one, I’d never agreed with that statement more, I’d never been as fond of the boy, I’d never been so aware of just how much I liked him. I made a snap decision, one that made me immediately shoot up so I was on my feet. “Niall, m’gunna go.” I spoke quickly. “You want me to walk you home?” “Nah, I’m good. Staying for another pint.” He still hadn’t opened his eyes. “There’s no one here.” “Gina’s here, that’s good enough for me.” “Alright, be safe. Night, Niall. Happy New Year.” “And to you, my love.” I headed to the door with as much speed as I could without actually running, gaining some life from somewhere, a plan in mind, one that was likely foolish, but it wouldn’t be the first example I’d shown of such behaviour that night. It seemed I’d left my head at home which put my heart in charge, and that made my choices questionable. Even so, I stormed down the quiet streets of Rosebury, heading straight to Harry’s home. Light drizzle was falling from the sky, another reason to pick up the pace. Once again, I found myself feeling thankful that our village was so small, how I could literally get from one side to the other in five minutes. As I walked, I could see some celebrations still going on, in people’s homes, in The Railway, happy people making sure their night was one to remember, making it last. I just wanted it to end. The night hadn’t gone how I’d wanted it to. In fact, it felt like the last fucking month hadn’t gone how I’d wanted it to. I wanted to start the year by bringing myself up rather than feeling so down. I couldn’t keep pretending that what had been happening was fine, that I felt fine about it, because I didn’t. I wanted to step forward, do better, feel better. Things needed to change. I was shivering by the time I was making my way down the beaten road up to Harry’s house, but I was walking up there with poise, confidence, assurance. As soon as his home came into view, I was practically marching up to his door, my chest on fire. I scuttled up onto the porch at the front of his house and knocked ferociously on the door, so many times I knew even if he’d been sleeping, I was likely to wake him, but he hadn’t even been home too long. Through the beveled glass, I saw him walking down the stairs and the hallway as he stalked towards me, rubbing over his eye with the back of his hand as he slowly opened the door. “Fee? What’s up?” He asked, his torso bare, loose pants hung low around his hips, concern in his tone. “Is everything okay?” “This needs to end.” I spoke bluntly, my voice dry and dead. “Huh?” “This, what’s being going on between us. It needs to end.” “What? Why?” I tried to walk away, but he took hold of my hand, trying to keep me back. “Alfie, talk to me.” “Talk to you?” I shot my head back around, but kept the distance. “Really? Don’t you think that’s a little rich?” That shut him up, if only briefly. He dropped my hand, his frame almost deflating, eyes wavering over me until I turned around and started walking away from him, down the steps and back on the road before he managed to speak again. “Just tell me why!” He yelled. I stopped myself, turning around to look up to him, and I decided to be honest. I decided to just tell him the truth, be open, like he’d told me to be. One of us had to be. I took a deep breath in, and said it. “Because I like you, Harry.” His face dropped. “I really fucking like you. And I can tell you don’t feel the same way, so we should end it, right?” The rug that we’d spent months hiding his secrets beneath had just been pulled from beneath his feet. He was dumbfounded, nothing to say, purely staring at me in a state of shock. I stared right back, waiting for him to say something, waiting for him to finally open his mouth and share something with me. I don’t know why the hell I was still surprised when he couldn’t. I was losing my nerve. “See, you’ve got nothing to say, as usual. So whatever the fuck this has been, it needs to stop.” I really was desperate for him to say something, even if he was to vocally shoot me down, but he didn’t even have the stamina to do that. I knew he didn’t feel the same way, but he didn’t even the guts to tell me and I hated that so much. Even though that night was the first time I’d been able to fully accept that the way I cared for him was much more than a friendship, that I actually truly liked him, I’d also never hated him more. “And I don’t even fucking understand why I feel this way, because I don’t know anything about you, do I?” He was still stood in silence, shell-shocked. “I don’t know how it’s even possible for me to like you, because you don’t talk to me. I don’t really know anything about you. It makes no fucking sense, but unfortunately, that’s how I feel. So it ends, now. We’re finished.” His eyes were wide, his mouth slightly agape, but he still didn’t say a word. I thought he’d at least argue with me, that he’d think up excuses, but he was doing absolutely nothing other than looking like he’d seen a ghost. I’d not gone there expecting to lose my temper in the way I was, but to see him stood there once again giving me absolutely nothing was so infuriating. I knew he didn’t like me. I’d figured that out already, but it still hurt to see how apparent that was then. “I don’t understand how you do it.” I sighed. “I don’t understand how you can… spend so much time with someone, and feel nothing. We’ve been so fucking close, Harry. I don’t understand how you can be so intimate with someone and feel nothing.” “I-I don’t feel nothing.” He finally choked. “But you don’t feel this, do you? You don’t feel what I fucking feel, I know you don’t!” “Fuck. I just-” He stood clutching and rubbing at his temples with his thumb and middle finger. “I dunno. I guess… I guess sex just isn’t a special thing for me.” “It’s not for me either!” I yelled. “I have spent the last few years of my life sleeping with a boy and feeling nothing, feeling… fucking lifeless. I know what it’s like to sleep with someone without emotions, trust me. But I didn’t feel that with you! What we’ve been doing, that’s not just sex, Harry! Surely you can see that.” Once again, I’d stunted him, forcing him back into a corner, back to the silence he was using so frequently. He’d managed just a few words and then he was back to being this coward, this person who wouldn’t and couldn’t share. I was done with it. “What we’ve been doing, the way we are together… it’s so beyond sex. Even with you being how you are and refusing to talk to me, it’s so much more than sex. We never should have done this. We were so fucking stupid to think this could work. Because it’s not working, and you know it! We let it go too far, so I’m being the sensible one and I’m stopping it.” “But-” “Don’t argue with me, Harry!” I barked. “We said when we started this that when one of us wants it to end, it does, with no arguments. That’s what we said.” “I know what we said!” He finally raised his voice, finally showed some emotions. I was still stood just looking up to him, and the thing that surprised me most was that I’d expected tears. I thought it would all get the better of me, but I didn’t feel that way at all. I was just so exhausted by the whole thing, so worn out after months of trying to get to know someone who did not want to share himself with me. “We promised we would do this without feelings, and I can’t keep that promise anymore.” I shrugged. As much as I’d known what to expect when I got there, how I’d known that he didn’t feel the same way, that naive part of me had bitten again and had me hoping something within him would snap. Not just that he'd tell me he liked me too, that he’d kiss and hold me, but that he’d actually share something with me, something with depth, something that meant a lot to him, something that lifted the weight that I could practically see was built upon his chest, crushing him. I kept hoping for the best and being let down. I felt like such a fool. “I’m done with it, Harry. I’m so fucking done with it. Aren’t you?” “No.” That was the first time he’d sounded confident since I’d knocked on his door. “Well you should be.” “But I’m not! I don’t care that we said we wouldn’t argue, I don’t want this to end, Fee.” “But I don’t feel like I have enough reason to stay! Why would I do that when you don’t like me, Harry? You don’t want to talk to me, you don’t like me in that way, you clearly don’t share my feelings. Fuck, you don’t even have the guts to share your own feelings with me. With anyone! What the hell is there to hold onto here? It’s done!” I’d rendered him speechless again, to the point where he couldn’t even hold eye contact anymore. He dropped his head, nothing to say. I just wanted to go home. I just wanted to get in bed and sleep it all off, wake to a New Year with a new mindset, new circumstances. I had no idea how things would be between the two of us, how we’d move on from all of this. It was always bound to be difficult, but the fact that we were now both so aware of the feelings I’d developed for him only made things worse. But I knew I had to tell him. It would have killed me if I hadn’t. Harry had been the person in my life who had encouraged me to open up, be honest, share, deal with what I was experiencing. That was coming back to bite him. I finally started to walk away from him, a little later than I should have, but at least I was finally doing it. “You can keep hiding yourself away, Harry, because I am done searching for you.” I left him without another word. He didn’t try to stop me, he didn’t call me back. He did nothing, like I should have fucking known he would.

[tallglassofsweetpea]

Little Darlin’: Chapter Seven

Sweet Pea x OC, 1950′s AU

Warnings (this chapter): language, sexual content/smut

AN: I’m baaaaaaack! Sorry for the delay, I really struggled with this chapter. I swear to god i went back and rewrote almost the entire thing like three times! This chapter is pretty long, and pretty spicy! Hopefully that will make up for the delay! All previous chapters can be found in my masterlist on my blog. It’s also now available on AO3 under the username: sweepee

As always, thank you all so much for your support (and patience) I hope you enjoy!! 

-B

[Please let me know if you’d like to be tagged for future chapters. Also feel free to message me if you have any suggestions for this story and where you’d like to see it go, or if you have any general comments/questions! My ask is open :) ]

Chapter Seven: Devil or Angel

The Monday following homecoming, Lily walked into chemistry class and sat down in her usual spot. She had prayed and prayed Reggie would be absent from class that day. She couldn’t yet face him. When she finally did see him, her breath caught in her throat. He was beat up, bad. His face was covered in black and blue, his bottom lip split. He walked right past her and took a seat in the back of the classroom. Luckily his usual lab partner had returned, as did hers. She wondered what could have happened to him. She knew it wasn’t from the football game, he had looked fine at the dance. Then her mind flashed to the look on Sweet Pea’s face when she told him what had happened at the dance. She glanced back at Reggie once more with wide eyes.

**

Lily was in the middle of eating her lunch when another lunch tray was slammed down on the table in front of her.

“Hi, Trish.”

“Where on earth did you run off to during the dance Saturday? I tried phoning you when I got home but when your mother answered the phone I hung up. I know how much she hates me, I swear I can see it in her eyes.”

Lily sighed, it was the first time she had seen Trish since the homecoming dance and she was of course locked and loaded with a round of questions. She quickly filled her in about what had happened with Reggie at the dance.

“You slapped Reggie!?”

“I’ll admit it was a knee-jerk reaction, but-“

“I only wish I had done it myself. I swear if Archie knew anything about this…wait...where were you the rest of the night?”

Lily began fiddling with her food, her eyes fixated on her tray. “Well, that’s where it gets interesting. I went outside to clear my mind…and Sweet Pea was waiting in the parking lot.”

Trish’s eyebrows arched. “Sweet Pea?!” She said a little too loudly. Lily’s eyes widened and pressed a finger to her friend’s lips. Trish relaxed a bit and lowered her voice, leaning in closer to Lily. “Sweet Pea? What was he doing there?”

“He was waiting for me.”

Her brows knitted together in confusion. “How did he even know you would be there? I thought it was over between you two?”

“It’s sort of a long story, I promise I’ll fill you in soon.”

“You’d better! Here I was, planning nearly one hundred different ways of ridding him of his manhood for breaking your heart. Little did I know, you’ve been off galavanting together the whole time? Lily, you have got to tell me these things! Sorry, I’m talking too much. Please continue.” She dug into her lunch as she listened.

“He drove us to Sweetwater forest and we slow danced beneath the stars, Trish it was so romantic! And then…“

Trish stopped chewing on her sandwich, she was practically on the edge of her seat waiting in anticipation. “And then…?”

Lily lowered her voice. “He asked me to go steady.” Lily couldn’t hide her bright smile thinking about that night.

“You and Sweet Pea? Lil’! I’m so happy for you!” She reached across the table and shook Lily’s hand in excitement.

“I know, it’s sort of left me dizzy. It all happened so quickly. We were dancing one second and kissing the next and then…well…” Lily’s cheeks started to get hot, not knowing how to tell Trish.

Trish’s mouth dropped to the floor. “You did not…you and SP-”

“No! No, we didn’t do that. I mean, we did other things…”

“Lilian Greene, you little trollop! Tell me more, and for the love of god use descriptive language!”

Before Lily could say anything further, the school bell rang signaling the end of lunch.

Trish groaned in annoyance. “You’ve been saved by the bell this time, but next time you won’t be so lucky. Gosh, I don’t know how I’m going to make it through the day without knowing. The anticipation alone is going to slay me!”

Lily rolled her eyes and rose from the table. “Come on, we’re going to be late.”

**

Later that week, Lily was walking to the library from her dance class. She usually went to the library on the edge of Southside since it was closer to the studio. She had just reached the front of the small brick building when she heard the rumbling of motorcycles. She turned to watch a group of Serpents pulled into the gas station across the street, Sweet Pea included. He took off his helmet and shook out his sable hair, he smiled when he saw her standing across the street. She wore a lavender poodle skirt with a white sweater and her saddle shoes. She had a small dance bag hanging from one shoulder. Sweet Pea dismounted his bike and crossed over to her, a pleasant smile on his face.

“You’re a long way from Kansas, Dorothy.”

“I was just on my way to the library, I need to return some books.”

“I see.”

He leaned down to kiss her gently on the lips, his arms loosely wrapped around her waist. She pulled back and absentmindedly toyed with the silver dog tags that hung around his neck, a more serious look washed over her features.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Sure.” He said with a shrug. He reached out to finger the light purple ribbon that was neatly fastened around her ponytail.

“You wouldn’t happen to know anything about what happened to Reggie after the dance, would you?”

Sweet Pea pretended to search his memory, tilting his head side to side. “Nope. Can’t say I do.”

She knew he was lying, she crossed her arms across her chest.

“…Sweet Pea.”

“What? The guys been cruisin’ for a bruisin’. He’s lucky all I did was rough him up a bit.”

Lily’s eyes widened. “Rough him up a bit? He’s covered in black and blues…”

“Good.” He shrugged. “Nobody messes with you, not if I have any say.”

Lily shook her head at him, disapprovingly. “You’re bad news, SP.”

“Maybe you’re just too good.” He said with a smirk, her smile faltered.

“I should probably get going, it’s getting dark.”

“You wanna hang later?”

“I don’t see why not.”

“Cool. I’ll be over to get you in a couple hours. Hurry home, never know when a big scary Serpent might show up.” He winked and pressed a light kiss to her lips before jogging back over to his friends.

**

Lily and her parents sat down at the table for supper, Mrs. Greene had made her famous meatloaf right on time for her husband’s return from work. They held hands and said grace before filling up their plates.

“Did you hear about that poor Mantle boy? Got himself a beating in Pop’s parking lot Saturday night.”

Lily’s eyes shot up at her father’s mention of Reggie.

“Mantle…Lily, wasn’t that the boy you went to the homecoming dance with?”

Lily nodded her head. “Yes, Reggie.”

“He seems like a very nice boy, comes from a good family too. That’s really too bad. I think it would make a good impression if you went over to check on him sometime, Lilian.”

“Yeah, maybe.” When hell freezes over, she told herself.

“I’ll bet you it was one of those Southside boys again.” Lily’s gaze lowered to her food, she pushed the meat around on her plate with her fork. “Just when you think those hellions couldn’t get any worse.”

If only her father knew she had been spending her nights in the arms of one of those so-called “hellions”. And that in fact it was the boys on the Northside that she needed to watch out for. She could only imagine the look on George Greene’s face if he found out his perfect little girl had been sneaking around with a big bad Serpent.

“They can’t all be bad, daddy.”

Both of her parents paused their movements and cast an eye at her with raised brows.

“I wish I could agree with you, sweetheart. But these are very bad, very dangerous people.

“I just mean that maybe they have their reasons.”

“And what reasons would they have for beating up an innocent boy?”

Innocent boy? What a joke.

Lily chewed on her bottom lip, she wanted to tell them the truth about Reggie to prove her point. Her father looked at her expectantly. An uncomfortable silence was held amongst the three of them until her mother spoke up.

“We really shouldn’t have brought up such serious talk at the dinner table. Darling, how was work today?”

Mr. Greene’s gaze lingered on his daughter a second longer before he ran through his day with his wife. If there was one thing Lily let out a breath and continued eating her dinner mostly in silence, only responding when directly spoken to. She wished more than anything that she could tell them what had happened.

After dinner, Lily helped her mother clear the table before she went to sit in the living room with her father. Sometimes they would sit in silence as they both read, other times he would have her read scripture, sometimes they would talk. Tonight was a quiet reading night.

“Hey Lily-pad?”

She looked up from her book. “Yes, daddy?”

“When I tell you to stay away from the Southside, its because I wouldn’t want anything to happen to you. I know you’re a smart good girl, but even good people can find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

“I understand, daddy. I don’t know why I said that stuff at dinner, it was silly.”

“It’s not silly, you see the good in people.”

“I like to believe everyone has a bit of good in them.”

Mr. Greene gave his daughter a polite smile before returning to his book. “One day you’ll understand.”

Lily toyed with her necklace. She was both physically and mentally biting her tongue. She closed her book, slipping the bookmark inside before rising from the loveseat.

“Maybe one day you will understand too. I’m off to bed, goodnight daddy.” She kissed him on the cheek before marching up the stairs leaving her father at a loss for words.

**

As the weeks progressed, Lily and Sweet Pea had grown closer than ever. Had you told either of them only months ago that they’d be as close as they were, they’d both have laughed. He was addicted to her presence and the way she made him feel, and vice versa. Their outings were strategically planned around Lily’s parents, not wanting to know what would happen if they found out. Often Lily would wait until after her parents would kiss her goodnight before sneaking out of the window to meet Sweet Pea at the end of the street. They would go to the Wyrm to dance and hang out with Trish and Fangs, but after awhile they would sneak off someplace they could be alone. Sometimes they would just go somewhere to talk, the air filled with laughter and stories. Other nights the air would remain silent except for the sound of their quickened heartbeats. Sweet Pea’s hands had a tendency to “accidentally” wander, not that Lily minded.

The two lovers were sprawled out side by side on an old blanket laid on the grass. One of the good things about living in a small town was the night sky, bountiful with stars. Sweet Pea put his arm behind his head, looking up at the sky. Lily turned her head to look at him, taking in his striking features illuminated by the moonlight.

“Sweet Pea, how come you never mention your parents?”

“Not really worth mentioning.”

“You know, you don’t always have to be so mysterious.”

Sweet Pea glanced at her and sighed. “My dad left when I was a baby. My mom’s off somewhere down south with her scumbag boyfriend. My grandma took care of me most of my life. She got real sick a couple years back, couldn’t work anymore. So I started doing odd jobs after school, that’s when I met FP.”

“I remember you telling me, you were only 15?”

“Yeah, I started helping him out for extra money to put food on the table. My grandma never asked where the money came from, but I think she had her suspicions. When she passed away I dropped out of school and officially joined the Serpents. I guess they’re the closest thing I have to a family now.”

She studied him silently, taking in what he shared with her. Her heart broke for him, she couldn’t begin to imagine what it must have been like having to take on the responsibilities of an adult at such a young age. Most kids wouldn’t know what to do, but with Sweet Pea there was no question about it. He knew he needed to take care of him and his grandma, no matter the risk. Lily admired him for that.

“That was incredibly brave of you to do that at such a young age. It sounds like you really loved her.”

“She had a real tough shell, but deep down she was the sweetest woman with the biggest heart. She’d do anything for anyone.”

“Reminds me of someone I know.” Lily intertwined her fingers with his and pressing a gentle kiss to his fingers. Sweet Pea let a small laugh escape his lips.

“I just wish she was still here. Though I guess it’s probably best she didn’t have to watch me turn into some punk kid.”

Lily shook her head. “I bet she would be proud of you.”

He scoffed. “Thanks, but I don’t know if she’d be proud her grandson ended up being a high school dropout turned Serpent.”

Lily sat up, resting on her elbow and looked down at him, his features had hardened.

“Maybe not…But I’m positive she would be proud of what a strong, loyal, sweet young man you are.” She traced the lines of the tattoo on his neck. “You’re a special guy, Sweet Pea. You don’t give yourself enough credit.”

Sweet Pea’s warm cocoa eyes met hers. No one had ever told him anything quite like that. He gazed at her in complete wonder, she looked like an angel with the moonlight shine around her hair like a halo. He reached his hand up to cup her cheek, his thumb running over her smooth skin.

“I don’t deserve you.” Lily turned her head to kiss the palm of his hand then leaned over and kissed him on the lips. Sweet Pea drew her over him so she lay straddling his waist, his hands rested on her hips. Her fingers quickly became lost in his hair, her hips lightly ground into his as he deepened the kiss. He whispered against her lips. “God, you drive me crazy.” One of his hands drifted down to her bottom, giving it a light squeeze while pulling her hips into his.

Sweet Pea rolled them over on the blanket so his body was atop hers, his muscular arms enclosed her petite figure. His hands traveled up her sides until they came to cup her breasts, Lily sighed into their kiss. She let out a little whine when Sweet Pea pulled back from the kiss, leaving Lily out of breath. “Why did you stop?” His lips traveled down her neck

Sweet Pea kissed her on the lips and smirked. “Trust me.”

Lily nodded, her emerald eyes sparkled with curiosity as she watched his lips follow down her collar bone. He placed kisses across the top of her breasts, still clothed by the thin fabric of her dress. He pulled down the straps of her dress to expose a rosy pink lace bra. He lowered his head, sucking each peak through the fabric. Lily gasped at the sensation, she watched him with anticipation as he continued kissing his way down her stomach. Her lips parted slightly. She could feel his large, rough hands move up her thighs. He lifted her bottom from ground, just enough so he could pull her panties off and toss them to the side. He gently lifted her leg by the ankle and trailed soft kisses on the inside of it, working his way up her leg at a taunting pace.

“Sweet Pea, what are you doing?” Lily asked with a sigh, enjoying the feeling of his soft lips trail over her body but unsure of where it would lead. “We’re outside, what if someone sees?”

“Fuck it, let em’ see.”

Lily laughed. “You’re crazy.”

“You make me crazy.” Sweet Pea’s eyes locked on hers. “Relax for me, baby. Trust me.” He smiled at her reassuringly, she gave him a bashful grin and took a deep breath. Sweet Pea continued to trail kisses past her knee and kissed her inner thigh. His lips worked their way up to the crook of her thigh sucking on the skin, letting his teeth nip at the skin, leaving a red mark. “Sweets.” She half moaned, half scolded.

He kissed his way to her center. Lily looked down at him with eager, lustful eyes. “Relax, Lily.” He lowered his mouth to her center, and let his tongue slowly run over her. “Oh god!” Her hands flew down to grasp his hair. He continued to softly caress her with his tongue, leaving her a whimpering mess. He had pleasured her with only his hands until then, and this was something entirely different. Lily’s hips bucked up involuntarily against his mouth. Sweet Pea paused to look at her. Her head was tilted back in ecstasy, her eyes tightly shut and lips parted. “Does it feel good?” Lily nodded her head, seemingly unable to speak.

“Tell me.”

Her words sounded shaky. “Yes. Please don’t stop.”

Sweet Pea smirked and lowered his head back to the task at hand. Sweet Pea kissed her open mouthed running his tongue from the bottom of her slit up to the top. He entered two of his fingers inside of her, letting them curl inside of her. Lily moaned and trapped her bottom lip between her teeth, trying to stay quiet. She felt warmness between her thighs begin to spread over her body. Her nerves felt as though they were on fire. Lily whispered to the dark haired serpent. “Pea.”

His tongue skillfully worked her clit as his fingers glided in and out of her soaking core, curling his fingers inside again and rubbing the pads of his fingers against her sweet spot. He felt her tighten around his fingers, watching as she arched her back in pleasure her dainty fingers twisting into the fabric of the blanket. Lily felt a warmness spread throughout her body, her breathing hitched, she was getting close. Sweet Pea could tell she was holding back, so he gave her some encouragement.

“Let go, baby girl. Let me hear you.” He whispered to her gruffly before lowering his head once more, flicking his tongue against her until her body began to shake, her moans getting louder and louder until she peaked. He knew he would never forget the way she whimpered out his name as she met her release.

Sweet Pea moved back up so he was lying next to her, watching her chest heave as she came down from her orgasm.

Lily looked over at him, her green eyes hazy. “Sweet Pea?”

“Yeah?”

“Make love to me.”

Sweet Pea examined her face. Their passion filled evenings would often reach a certain point where Sweet Pea took it upon himself to exercise serious restraint. If there was one thing he didn’t want to do, it was to rush her into anything.

“Not tonight, doll.”

“We could make love, right here under the stars. ” Though he could think of worse ideas, something about it just didn’t sit right with him. He pulled his eyes away from her.

“Lily, I said not tonight.”

Lily sat up to look at him. She had swallowed her pride and essentially offered herself to him yet he seemingly couldn’t to get out of the situation fast enough.

He saw the look in her eyes, and his heart sank. Embarrassment. “Shit, baby don’t-“ Sweet Pea tried to reach out to her but she pulled herself away from him, her hands ran over her face.

“It’s not that I don’t want to, but-“

“I made myself entirely vulnerable to you…and you denied me.”

“I didn’t deny you, baby. I just-“

“My parents will be looking for me soon, we should go.”

“Lily…”

She adjusted her clothing and smoothed back her hair before standing up and getting into the car.

Sweet Pea threw his hands up in defeat, shaking his head.

The car ride was mostly silent, Lily looked out the window with her arms folded around herself. When they pulled up to her house, Lily didn’t give him a chance to say anything before slamming the door of the car shut and strutting her way to the front door.

Sweet Pea groaned to himself. “Fucking Northside girls.”

**

When Lily returned home that night, she lay awake in her bed. Her mind was racing. Why had Sweet Pea not wanted her? Had she misread the situation? From the sounds of it, he was far more experienced than her.

What was it that those other girls had that she didn’t? That’s when an idea came to her. Lily quietly snuck the telephone into her bedroom and rang Trish.

“Hey Trish? Are you free tomorrow night? I need your help.”

**

Sweet Pea leaned over and lined up his shot at the pool table, pocketing two balls.

“Fangs, you’re up!” He loudly clapped his hands together. “Fangs?” He called out, but was left without a response. He turned around to see Fangs standing slack jawed facing the entrance of the Wyrm, a few other Serpents were doing the same. Sweet Pea snapped his fingers in front of Fangs’ face.

“Fogarty? Are you paying attention, we’re in the middle of a game. What are you staring at?”

Sweet Pea followed his stare to see what had stolen the attention away from the game. As soon as he turned around, his jaw dropped.

“Holy shit.”

Lily walked through the doors of the Wyrm, Trish followed a few steps behind her. Sweet Pea’s eyes were drawn to to a tight-fitted, fire engine red off-the-shoulder top that left little to the imagination. His gaze followed down to the pair of high waisted black pants that hugged her curves perfectly. She wore a pair of simple red heels to match.

Trish had drilled it into Lily's head that the grand entrance was most important. She swayed her hips, shifting her weight from one leg to the other as she sauntered over to the tall serpent she was in search of. She stood beside him and rested her arms behind her on the edge of the pool table.

“Hey, Pea.” She said, a wicked smile playing on her lips.

“L-Lily?” He couldn’t believe his eyes.

“You’re catching flies, sugar.” She brought her hand up to his chin and closed his mouth, pressing a brief but heated kiss to his lips. She pulled away too soon, leaving him weak for more. “Aren’t you going to buy me a drink?”

Sweet Pea internally groaned as he watched her saunter her way to the bar and leaning against it, strategically pushing her bum out to drive him crazy. And it was going exactly as she had hoped.

Sweet Pea turned to the guys surrounding the pool table, they stood gawking at the petite blonde. Sweet Pea’s jaw clenched and he threw a threatening look their way. “What the hell are you looking at?” They instantly tore their eyes away from Lily, resuming their conversations not wanting to cause any problems with SP.

Fangs threw his hand up in surrender. “I’m with her!” He wrapped his arm around Trish, who wore a satisfied grin. She felt like a proud parent. Since they were little girls, Trish had tested out nearly every beauty and fashion tip from Vogue magazine. Lily had (often against her will) been her own personal guinea pig. So when Lily called her the night before to ask her for help, she couldn’t contain her excitement.

Fangs leaned into Trish, his arm wrapped tightly around her waist. “I was really looking at you the whole time, babe.”

Trish laughed, shaking her head. “I’d have been offended if your jaw hadn’t dropped at the sight of her. This is easily my best work yet.”

Sweet Pea made his way over to where Lily stood at the bar.

“Sorry to distract you from your game, it looked like it was getting pretty intense.”

“Oh, that-that’s no big deal. I’ll catch up with them later on.”

Toni came over to serve them. “SP, who’s your new friend? What happened to little miss Doris Day?”

“Hi, Toni.”

Toni’s eyes bugged out of her head upon recognizing her. “Damn, Northie. You look hot.”

Lily smiled brightly. Sweet Pea’s eyes narrowed at the petite bartender.

“You gonna get us a couple of drinks or stand there and hit on my girl right in front of me?”

Toni laughed. “Cool it, beanstalk. I’ll be back in a sec.”

Sweet Pea turned back to Lily, scanning her from head to toe. Was it possible that he was only dreaming? Her fair hair was worn in big sexy curls that framed her face. She had never worn so much makeup in her life, not even for dance recitals. But she thought Trish did a nice job, giving her a classic smokey eye with an expertly applied cat eye. But it was the rich, crimson lipstick glossing her lips that had Sweet Pea’s mind racing with sinful thoughts. He subconsciously bit into his bottom lip.

“She’s right, you look…great.”

She smiled at him, she couldn’t deny how powerful she felt knowing how much she was affecting him. Smooth talking Sweet Pea was wrapped around her little finger.

“Do you think so? I wasn’t sure about the top, do you think it looks alright?” She adjusted the tight fabric of her red shirt so it revealed a bit more cleavage. Sweet Pea easily fell into her trap, his eyes lingered on her chest. His tongue ran over his bottom lip.

“I think it’s just fine.”

Toni slid over their drinks, Sweet Pea didn’t even break eye contact to look at Toni as he handed her a couple of bills. He watched Lily pluck the cherry from her drink and wrapped her equally as red lips around it, pulling it from the stem and eating it. She took a sip from her drink,  looking up at him through her dark lashes.

“Is there something on your mind, Pea?”

Sweet Pea leaned down to whisper in her ear. “Some thoughts are best kept locked up, darlin’.” She tried her best to fight off the blush that emerged on her cheeks, and took another sip of her drink. But it wasn’t before he noticed. She knew her facade was breaking, she needed to recover quick. Trish said the key to seduction was to always have the upper hand, keep them wrapped around your finger.

Once she was positive the color in her cheeks had evened out, she turned to look him in the eye as she swirled the straw from her mixed drink. “Can I ask you a question?”

“You could ask me just about anything right now, sweetness.”

She gave him a flirty smile. “Are you really as good as they say you are?”

He tilted his head at the question. His lips parted, but for once he was at a loss for words.

“At pool, I mean.” Lily simpered at him, satisfied that he fell into her trap.

Sweet Pea cleared his throat, straightening out his shoulders and taking a drink from his beer. “Pool, right. Yeah…Well I’ve beat everyone in this bar at least once or twice.”

Lily shook her head lightly, fluttering her lashes. “Not everyone.”

Sweet Pea let out a low chuckle. “Are you challenging me, blondie?”

Lily shrugged. “So what if I am?” She grabbed her drink and started walking over to an empty pool table, grabbing Sweet Pea’s hand and dragging him along with her. “Show me what you’ve got.”

Sweet Pea groaned and tossed back the rest of his drink before following her girl through the bar.

She didn’t expect to win, at least not at pool. She made a point of leaning over the table just right, giving him a clear view of her breasts. She’d give him subtle touches here and there in passing. If she sipped her drink, she made sure to keep eye contact with him. He knew what she was doing to him, and he hated to admit it was working. He was like putty in her perfectly manicured hands. They were about halfway through the game when Sweet Pea walked up behind her, trapping her between his body and the table. She turned around in his arms. She captured her bottom lip between her teeth as she looked at him. His eyes were big and dark, almost animalistic. He had endured enough torture for one night.

“Maybe we should cut the game short. I could use some fresh air.”

“Afraid I might make a comeback?”

Sweet Pea shook his head and took the pool stick from her, leaning it up against the table along with his own before wrapping his arm around her waist and leading them out of the Wyrm.

**

Lily stood leaning back against the cold brick wall. She tilted her head slightly to look at Sweet Pea as he puffed on a cigarette. He watched her. His eyes scanned over her body. He couldn’t deny the way her new look was affecting him. The fact that he knew it had the same effect on every other guy in the bar bothered him immensely. It took every ounce of strength he had to refrain from tossing her over his shoulder in the middle of the bar and bringing her somewhere only he could see her like that. “

Lily’s eyes shifted to his lips. She reached out to remove the cigarette from between them and replaced it between her own scarlet lips. She gently pulled some smoke from the cigarette as she maintained eye contact with Sweet Pea. He was hypnotized, watching as the smoke escape her pursed lips.  

“Don’t do that.” He plucked the cigarette from between her fingers. “Thought you didn’t smoke?”

“I don’t. Trish and I used to steal her father’s cigarettes when we were younger, just to try it.” She shrugged her bare shoulders. Trish occasionally smoked, usually in social settings.

“Interesting.” Sweet Pea nodded. taking one last puff before tossing it to the ground. Wanna go for a ride?”

“I might accept your offer, however I don’t see your car anywhere.” Her eyes scanned the lot.

Sweet Pea shook his head, amusedly and walked over to straddle a shiny black motorcycle.

“No car necessary.”

Lily’s mouth fell open, her bad girl facade instantly shattered. In the time that Lily had known Sweet Pea, she had never been on his bike. She had truthfully been dreading the day that he would ask.

“There is no way I’m getting on that death trap.” She crossed her arms.

Sweet Pea smirked at her, there was the Lily he knew. “Come on, doll. I thought you were feeling rebellious tonight? You’re not afraid are you?”

Lily chewed on her lip. “Of course not.”

**

Within minutes of him cutting the engine to the bike and letting down the kickstand, Sweet Pea had Lily pinned up against a tree. His hands groped and massaged her body through her tight clothing as their tongues tangled and fought for dominance. The two of them sighing into each kiss.

Their lips connected again, Lily pulled his body against hers making Sweet Pea groan. He kissed and sucked on the gentle skin between he neck and shoulder. She let her hand slide down his chest until she reached the cool metal buckle of his belt. Sweet Pea groaned, pushing himself into her touch. She gently tugged on the leather of his belt. “Maybe I’m not as good as everyone thinks…” Sweet Pea pulled her head to his, his lips taking hers possessively. His strong hands ran up her sides to cup her breasts. He groaned against her soft lips, his tongue meeting hers as they fought for dominance. Lily’s hands gripped into the leather of his jacket. She pulled away from his lips.

“I want you.”

Sweet Pea shot her a look, and ran his hand though his hair in frustration. “Lily.”

Lily let out an exasperated sigh, throwing her hands up. “I don’t understand, Sweet Pea. From the sounds of it you’ve been with every girl on Southside but when your girlfriend looks you in the eye and tells you she wants you, you shut her down? How does that make any sense?”

Sweet Pea stood there in silence, looking past her and into the darkness of the forest.

“What is the difference between me and those girls?”

“There’s a big difference.” Sweet Pea took a deep breath. “Lily, it’s not that I don’t think you look sexy as sin right now. Believe me, you have no idea what this outfit is doing to me. But it isn’t you. I mean, what is all of this about?”

Lily reached up to fiddle with her necklace when she realized she had taken it off. Trish had said it would ruin the look. She wrapped her arms around herself protectively. “I thought maybe it would make you want me. Sometimes it feels like you don’t.”

“Don’t want you? Baby, you really have no clue how bad I want you. It keeps me up half the night. Hell, I’ve wanted you since the day I first laid eyes on you.”

“Then why do you keep stopping?”

“Because I-“ He stopped himself, afraid of what might have slipped out. “I think you deserve something more than just some quickie in the back of my car or in the woods. You mean more than that to me. I know it’s your first time, so I want it to be special for you.”

Her eyes softened and Sweet Pea ran his hand over her cheek. “And when the time comes I want you to be you. I want the Lily I fell for.”

Lily gave him a small smile. “Thank you, Pea.”

“I don’t ever want you to feel like you need to change for me or anybody else.” He caressed her cheek, she melted into his touch. “You’re goddamn perfect as you are. If I have to remind you that everyday, I will.”

Even in her heels she had to stand on the tip of her toes to kiss him. He happily wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her tighter to him as they kissed. Lily was the first to pull back. His eyes were warm and loving.

“You know…it’s really too bad.”

“What is?”

“Trish went through all the trouble of getting me dolled up…all to go unappreciated.” She offered Sweet Pea a suggestive look.

“I mean, I guess it would be a shame to put this outfit of yours to complete waste…”

Lily giggled, pulling on his dog tags to lower his head to hers. They both smiled into the kiss. Sweet Pea’s arms snugly encased her waist, pulling her into his strong build. The tempo of kiss quickly changed from steady and sweet to urgent and hungered. The scent and taste of candied cherries flooded Sweet Pea’s senses as he became fully enveloped by her presence. Lily leaned up to his ear, her hand making it’s way back to the top of his jeans. “I want to make you feel as good as you make me feel.”

Sweet Pea swallowed hard.

Her hands tugged on the leather of his belt, her hands nervously fumbled with the buckle until it finally came undone. She cautiously let her hand palm him through his underwear, her eyes widening at the feel of him. Sweet Pea sucked in a breath as her fingers gently glided over his length through the fabric, twitching in answer of her touch.

Lily peered up at him sheepishly. “Pea?”

“Yeah?”

“I-I don’t really know how to…I’ve never…”

Sweet Pea smiled at her sweetly, her innocence never failed to tug at his heart. He pressed a tender kiss to her forehead. He pushed down his underwear, letting himself free. He covered her delicate hand with his own and guided her to him, wrapping her dainty fingers around his shaft. Sweet Pea softly grunted at the feeling of her soft hands covering him.

“Just wrap your fingers around it like that, and move your hand up and down.”

Lily watched between them, their hands gliding up and down his length. It wasn’t as though she had a lot of references to compare him to, but she was still taken aback at his size.

Sweet Pea’s voice became breathier. “You can grip it tighter.” He closed his fist around her hand more, tightening her grasp on him. “Yeah, like that. That feels amazing.” Sweet Pea eventually let go of her hand, letting her take over fully. He let his fingers trail down her neck and along her collarbone, down to the exposed skin of her shoulder.

Lily got curious and ran her thumb over the velvety tip, Sweet Pea let out a moan. “Fuck.”

Lily stopped moving. “I’m sorry, did I hurt you?!”

He shook his head. “No, it just felt really good. You’re doing great.”

She continued to pleasure him with her hand, enjoying the sounds of his soft moans.

His hand made its way down to the neckline of her red top, he fingered the thin fabric for a moment before pulling down the fabric to expose her lace clad breasts. He let his hands gently caress the skin, encouraging soft sighs from Lily. He lowered his head down to kiss her neck, gently sucking and biting her skin. Sweet Pea groaned when she pushed her body into his even closer, the soft swell of her breasts pressed against his hard chest. His heartbeat was racing.

“A little faster.” He pleaded.

She proceeded to stroke his member with more confidence. Sweet Pea’s breathing was short and shaky as he neared his climax. Lily tightened her grip around him, causing him to grunt into the crook of her neck. “Lily…” His fingers dug into her hips, pushing her back against the rough bark of the tree behind her and pressing his body flush against hers. She could feel his muscles twitch as she built up his pleasure. He was teetering on the edge of release when Lily flicked her thumb over the tip once again, setting off his orgasm. He bit down on her neck, grunting in ecstasy as the pleasure shot through his body. His hips jerked into her touch until he finally came down from his high.

Lily’s breath had grown almost as labored as his, she couldn’t believe she had done that. It was the ultimate confidence boost, being able to bring him as much pleasure as he had brought her countless times.

Sweet Pea sighed into her neck before lifting to rest his forehead against hers, his signature curl tickling her skin. Lily gazed up at him. A look of contentment had washed over his features, an expression that was rarely worn by the Serpent. She grinned proudly. “I seduced you.”

He chuckled darkly. “Correction, you damn near killed me. Who knew you had a little bit of poison in you, angel?”

Lily chuckled and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek.

���Seems like I’m full of surprises lately.”

**

Lily kissed Sweet Pea goodbye and ran to the front door of her house, she quietly turned the lock on the door and opened it. She slipped off her heels and made her way over to the stairs.

“Where are you coming from?”

Lily almost jumped out of her skin, bracing herself against the wall. Her mother was waiting at the kitchen table, her hands folded before her.

“I was…I was over Trish’s house, she forgot to tell her parents I was staying over. I didn’t want to cause any trouble so I came home.” Lily fumbled through her excuse then turned to run up the stairs before her mother could ask anything more. “Goodnight, mother.”

“Stop.” Lily halted her movements. “Let me see you.” Lily groaned internally before she walked over to stand before her mother. Mrs. Greene scanned her body with narrow eyes. She lowered her voice so as not to rouse her husband, who would surely have a fit if he saw his daughter like that.

“What in the devil are you wearing?!” Lily crossed her arms to cover her chest and shrugged.

“Trish gave me a makeover. It was just for fun.”

Her mother’s hand brushed over her cheek, her eyes caught at the nape of her neck for a beat. Her eyes widened.

“What’s this?”

Lily narrowed her brow in confusion. “What’s what?” She turned to look in the mirror hung in the hall. Her neck was decorated in hickeys. She made herself a mental note to kill Sweet Pea.

“It was the curling iron. You know how clumsy Trish can be.” She laughed nervously, pushing her blonde curls to cover the marks before turning to face her mother again. She wore a stone cold look, her arms folded around her. “Curling iron.”

She abruptly turned away from Lily and walked to the kitchen, bracing herself against the sink as she looked out the window.

“Go upstairs and wash that stuff off your face before your father sees you. I don’t want to see you dressed like this again. You tell that redheaded hussy to keep far away from you, she’s nothing but trouble.”

“Mom…”

“Goodnight, Lilian.”

Lily nodded her head silently. “Goodnight.”

Mrs. Greene rubbed her temples, trying to keep her composure. She was no fool, she had known something was up. Coming home late, spending an unusual amount of time at the Vargas girl’s house. She knew from an early age that girl was up to no good. Trish was always much too fast for a girl like Lily. A light outside the window caught Mrs. Greene’s eye, the headlights of a black motorcycle pulling away from the house. It wasn’t one of the neighbors, and it certainly didn’t belong to Trish’s parents. She could hardly make out the driver, but she knew that it certainly wasn’t Trish…

[lavenderbones22]

Curious- Ben Hardy

Summary: Whilst at a mutual friend's party, Ben and his ex run into each other after a year apart.

Requested: 'A lil something with Ben hardy and the songs He'll never love you/Curious by Hayley Kiyoko'

Part 2 of 3--if you haven't read 'He'll Never Love You Like Me', please do first.

Word Count: 3350

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

Her heart was thumping in her ears as she stood in front of the full length mirror. Her tight, leopard print dress kept riding up her thighs, making her long legs look even longer. She brushed her wavy hair behind her shoulders and took a deep breath; she was nervous.

Her phone vibrated loudly on the wooden bed side table. She jumped and darted over picking it up. Damn. It was only a Facebook notification.

She hovered her thumb over the home button for second, tapping on the text message icon and then his name where all their messages were displayed; the ones from their previous communication three days ago staring her in the face.

He hadn't replied to her last few messages and that left a gaping feeling deep inside her chest. They'd been corresponding back and forth for two weeks or so, ever since his message to her in the early hours of that one morning.

He had made it clear how much he wanted her back and although she did want the same thing, she couldn't just cease her life as it was right now and run back to him; like she said, it wasn't that easy.

They had nearly met up a few times only for him to back out at the last minute because of the enormous guilt he was feeling. She was somebody else's, not his to take. It just wasn't in his character to be with another man's woman, even if that woman was the love of his life.

"Babe!? You nearly ready?" Her boyfriend's voice floated down the hall and into her bedroom where she was currently standing, preparing herself.

"Erm, yeah, just about," she replied. She wasn't herself when she was with him and she couldn't quite figure out why. There was a side to her that she just didn't feel like she could express when he was around and if she was being honest with herself, she really missed it.

He made her happy to a point and then it just stopped.

"Wow!" His face lit up when he saw her from where he stood in the doorway. "You look lovely."

She smiled without teeth and thanked him, turning around and reaching for her bag that she quickly locked her phone away in. He didn't know about her communicating with Ben, heck, he didn't even really know about Ben at all.

It was a mutual friend of hers and Ben's engagement party that they were attending. She was originally Ben's friend but the girls got on so well that they always found themselves catching up outside of group activities so it was a given that she would be invited to the engagement party.

She tried not to think too much about the fact that if things had kept going how they were meant to, that an engagement party would have been something she'd have shared with Ben.

She held her bag on her lap tight the entire Uber ride over to the house. Her boyfriend, although not very observant, knew that something was bothering his lovely lady.

"You okay hon?" His hand landed on her thigh, she looked over at him.

"I'm fine." she responded with forced smile that he seemed to believe, but inside she was dying.

It had been just over a year now since she left Ben that day without any sort of explanation and she didn't know what to expect when they were finally in the same room. Yes, they had been talking but not about the breakup. It was a taboo subject, an elephant in the metaphoric room that was about to be physical. Fuck.

The Uber pulled up to the house she'd been to many times over the years with Ben, her throat suddenly became hard.

"Sorry sir, erm, can we just wait a moment?" Her voice was small and about to break.

"Really?" Her boyfriend look at her incredulously. "Sorry mate, she always does this." She rolled her eyes at his rude behaviour, watching him get out and she flinched when he slammed the door. She took out the compact mirror from her bag and reapplied her lipstick. Her fingers were shaking and she didn't know what to do. Her phone lit up, dragging her attention to it in her bag so she pulled it out and opened up her messages with Ben again hoping that maybe she'd see those three dots typing out a message.

But nothing.

She re-read what they'd last said for the millionth time before she locked it and put everything back into her bag with a sigh.

"Thank you," she smiled kindly to the driver and got out.

He held his hand out for her a few metres away as she got out and with a light jog she hitched her bag on her shoulder and connected her small hand with his. If Ben wasn't going to reply she had no choice but to resort to petty measures to get a reaction out of him.

Mellow indie music was playing when they walked in. She was greeted with an almighty hello and hug by Emily and her fiance.

"You look so beautiful!" Emily eyed her friend up and down, complimenting the gorgeous choice of dress she wore. "I would die for your body!"

She told her friend to shush it with the compliments because she knew they made her blush and the two girls quickly fell into a conversation rehashing some important things that had happened since they last spoke.

She was seated on her boyfriend's lap on the sofa when the commotion in the connecting room peaked her interest. Squeals of excitement and multiple congratulations filled the air, some louder than the music playing; he was here.

She could feel the blood rushing through her veins as she tried to think of an escape plan because there was no way that she could do this right now. She thought she was ready but she just fucking wasn't.

***

Emily was beside herself with excitement when he arrived at the party like she thought that he wasn't going to. She had muttered something about him being so 'big and famous now' that maybe he'd 'forgotten the little people' to which he told her not to be ridiculous, that he was still the same old Ben although right now he was slightly drunker than regular Ben.

He knew that it was probably inappropriate to arrive half plastered to a good friend's engagement but he couldn't bare facing the love of his life with her new boyfriend because he just fucking knew she would be there with him.

Emily led him through the house and into the main area where everybody was. The first thing he saw was her, her sitting there on his lap. Ben knew it should have been his lap she was sitting on, his thigh she was rubbing, this should be a party they were attending together! It was all so fucked up, everything was so wrong. This wasn't how it was meant to be at all.

She was meant to be his wife.

Their eyes met for a brief moment before her boyfriend pulled her attention back to him. Ben thought he looked like a complete twat.

"Ben!"

Various people required his attention so for a while it was nice and he was distracted. Distracted although never forgetting that she was only metres away from him at all times. He knew her so well that it was like a sixth sense to know when she was near; he could smell her perfume, hear the sound of her heart beating, almost remember the feeling of their skin touching.

He needed to be a lot drunker than he was to get through this night.

***

She wanted to cry, he looked so good.

His hair was different; shaven on the sides and styled perfectly on the top of his head, it suited him so well. His lips were as perfect as she remembered, plump and pink. His emerald eyes still gleamed whenever he looked at her and that feeling in her soul was still there.

Everybody gravitated to him, filling him with compliments and congratulations on the movie.

She wished she could do the same, but she hadn't seen it.

"I know that guy from somewhere," her boyfriend spoke from behind her. She looked at him, what did he mean?

"Y-you know him?"

He shook his head. "No, I think-wait, wasn't he on Eastenders?"

Her friend beside them laughed. "Yeah mate, he played Peter Beale!"

"Right, he did!" The two men laughed, admitting their guilty pleasure of watching the television show.

She made eyes at her friend as not to mention who he was to her and quickly excused herself for the bathroom.

She made sure to go the long way as to walk by him. Part of her wanted to keep him at arms length all night only for the reason of it being the right thing to do yet the other part wanted him to take her in his strong arms, tell her how much he loved her and kiss her like he always used to.

She was selfish, she couldn't help it.

Not caring who might see, she sashayed right by him and to her surprise it was Ben who initiated the brush of their fingers, intertwining for a brief second. It was a fleeting moment lasting only a matter of seconds but it meant the world to both of them.

Reaching the bathroom she shut the door, minus the lock, in hopes of Ben following her. She knew it would be the wrong thing to do having her boyfriend just outside but she couldn't control herself when she was around her former lover.

Ten minutes she sat in there waiting for him. She was going to message him and stared at her phone for a good five of those ten minutes but decided against it, instead storming out of the bathroom agitated as hell.

"Alright?" Her boyfriend asked when she approached him and one of Emily's brother's he was chatting to.

"Fine," she responded in a huff, sitting down next to him on the sofa and pulling him to her lips by the collar of his checkered shirt.

"Jesus love," he laughed, pulling away after a few moments. "What's gotten into you?" Her boyfriend was never into public displays of affection, rather preferring to keep sexual encounters to that of the four walls of her bedroom. She found it boring, shit, she found him boring.

Ben used to always try and fuck her wherever he could. The kitchen countertop, against the front window of their flat, the guest bedroom at his parents house, heck, even the VIP section of a club one particularly drunken night.

She missed the excitement he brought to her life, the unexpected events that made life worth living, him, everything about his whole entire soul she missed.

"Must be the drinks I had," she sighed, moving back to her spot on the sofa and reaching for a wine she had left on the table beside it earlier. "Wasted on you," she mumbled quietly to herself as she took a sip.

Ben saw red when he watched her pull her boyfriend to her lips, the ones he'd had around his cock more times than he could physically count and he was furious at the response he gave to her. He could tell that she was embarrassed with his rejection by the way she brushed her hair behind her ear and avoided looking at him. Ben wanted to walk right up to the prat looking fucker and ask him if he was blind because the most beautiful woman in the world was sitting right next to him begging for his attention, followed by a right deck to the face.

A soft hand suddenly grabbed his wrist, a pretty looking girl who began talking to him about how much she loved his movie. He engaged her in conversation for a while, even getting his interest peaked further when she whispered something suggestive into his ear.

It was short lived though because before he knew it he was being dragged down the hall by a touch he knew all too well.

She pushed the door of the bathroom open in haste, pulling him in and shutting it loudly behind him. She didn't care who saw, she didn't care what people would say, what her boyfriend would say. The only person she cared about was the blonde haired, green eyed boy in front of her who had her heart in his heart.

Ben cottoned on pretty quick and proceeded to brush a bunch of bathroom products off the counter, lifting her up by her hips and placing her not so gently on the marble. He kissed her neck, under her jawline and eventually on the lips, tongues meeting again and dancing around in celebration.

"I'm just curious," his head was against her forehead, breathing heavily. She searched his eyes, pupils becoming more dilated with each second that passed, hands clutching his strong jawline waiting for him to continuing speaking. "Is it serious?"

She didn't need to answer him because what she did next told him everything he needed to know.

She pushed his denim jacket off his shoulders and nearly tore the buttons from his dress shirt as she frantically tried to rid him of that as well.

"Why didn't you reply to my messages?" She asked him while she battled with the buckle on his belt. "It really upset me."

He gently moved her hands away and undid the belt himself, pulling it off and unbuttoning his jeans. She wasn't looking at him, was she regretting what she had just initiated?

"Hey," his deep voice emanated through her, his warm hand forcing her to look up at him by guiding her chin. "Are you sure about this?"

This time her eyes were locked on his as she tried to figure out why he was asking her this question. "Yes. Yes Ben of course I am," she answered him assuringly. "I wouldn't have just pulled you out of a party where I'm pretty sure everyone saw what I was doing if I wasn't sure about it."

He smiled and kissed her softly. "I'm so tired of you not letting me love you," he spoke against her plump lips, swollen with all the kissing they had been doing. "I can't get used to you not loving me."

Her hands were rested on the sides of his neck, his bare chest pressed up against her. The warmth he radiated was wild and it was transmitting right through her skin. "Who ever said that I don't love you?" Her perfectly sculpted eyebrows were raised, waiting on his answer.

"Well, erm, nobody."

"I love you more than I thought it was possible for one person to love another person." She kissed him again, slow and loving. "I love you more than Roger loves his car," she chuckled.

"You saw the movie!?" Ben pulled back, eyes wide and smile hopeful.

She shook her head. "No but I do know a little bit about Roger Taylor."

Ben chuckled and pulled her back into him, pushing her tight dress up her legs and pulling her underwear down with a shuffle of her gorgeous ass. "I fucking missed this," he mumbled, kissing her deeply with his tongue roaming her mouth. He'd missed being connected with her in this way and lord knows she missed it too.

A small moan broke from her lips between their kiss but Ben never worried about telling her to be quiet because the music and chatter from the party was enough to drown out any sounds they would make...maybe.

She pushed his pants down his thick thighs, Ben hooking his fingers into the sides of his underwear and pulling them down to. Things had to be quick, no one could know what was going on.

"Fuck," she moaned with a giggle, her head tilted back in relieved lust at finally seeing his gorgeous cock again, all hard and angry looking and ready to fucking ram her into oblivion.

"Ready?" He asked her eyes excited, brows raised. He did that thing where he looked at her under his brows and she remembered in that moment just how much she loved it when he looked at her like that.

"Don't look at me like that," she giggled. "I feel like I'm having a heart attack."

Grabbing her thighs and wrapping them around his waist, she shifted forward on the counter closer to him and nearly melted into a puddle when she felt the tip of his dick nudging at her entrance. Her hands were leaning back on the edge of the sink and she arched her back to make it easier for him and more pleasurable for the both of them.

His skilful fingers reached her warm folds as he thumbed her clit and pushed in at the same time. Ben had always loved how she took his dick; all of it unlike a lot of girls he had encountered. He was most certainly above average and in her opinion it was just a bonus in comparison to all the wonderful things about him.

"I fucking missed you," she whispered, cupping his face with both of her hands.

"I missed you too," he replied, voice slightly strained as the pleasure was building. "Every second that we were apart was pure torture."

They wrapped their arms around one another's bodies as they rocked together. Ben's hips were going manically against hers, the sound of their skin slapping together the only thing to be heard in the small bathroom save the sounds of their heavy breathing and exchanges of 'I love you's'.

"Did he touch you as good as I touch you?" Ben breathed against her ear. "Did he fuck you as good as I fuck you?" His voice was deeper than ever and it made her shudder.

"No," she cried. "He could never fuck me as good as you can."

"Good."

Ben kissed her gruffly; messy tongues meeting once more. She pulled away much to his dismay and stared at him in his gorgeous emerald eyes. In that moment, the moment they were sharing nothing else mattered. Not the party, her boyfriend, their friends or even the fact that they had been apart for a year. Nothing else mattered except for the fact that they were here, reunited and together again.

She was wrapped in his arms and hadn't felt as safe in the longest time. He laid hot kisses across her neck from one side to the other while her hands ran through his blonde hair. Every time his dick hit her right in her G spot she scratched her nails down his back exuding deep groans from him. Moving his hands to underneath her butt he tilted her up and brought her closer, telling her he was close.

Taking him perfectly like she always did, Ben watched her as she approached her orgasm too and revelled in the fact that for the first time in a year he was the cause of it. Only one hand was now around his neck as she started palming her gorgeous breasts through the thin material of her dress. She'd worn that dress to get a rise out of him and she had succeeded. Her head was thrown back in passion, moans rolling out of her mouth and Ben leaned forward to suck on her throat while he fucked her hard.

"I'm coming," he groaned, feeling himself start to explode into her and the feeling of his hot cum running down the inside of her triggered her orgasm, her tightness increasing around Ben making his orgasm last that little bit longer.

Falling against her body, she ran her hands all through his hair and down his back.

"I'll leave him," she whispered.

Ben looked up at her, disbelief. "You'll leave him?"

She nodded. "You're my forever."

TAG LIST: @galileoqueen-mama-mia @fuckinghurricanesoul @spidreling @screaminggalileochickenwrites @softbenhardy @meraki--mei @mortifiedmoon @ziggysstarrdust @tanya-is-dead

Enjoy my lovely humans xxx

[thehomierobbstark]

Request : headcanon of Erik being jealous

[A/N: Another headcanon-fic hybrid for the homies. I took this one and kind of did my own take on it. It’s got a lil a this n a lil of that 😉. I hope you like it anon! Thanks for asking :)] 

You would think that with all the confidence, accomplishments, and swagger Erik Stevens had, there would be no need for him to ever be worried about anyone else, especially when it came to the rock solid relationship the both of you’d built over the years

He was an incredibly educated, resourceful, and intelligent strong black man.

Unfortunately, it did nothing to keep him from always being just a little bit jealous.

“Hey, E? I’m gonna drop my stuff and go run to the store real quick. Text me if you need anything, ok?” you yell down the hallway, letting your work bags fall softly by the couch before slinging your purse around your shoulder and heading out the door.

“Get me some gatorade please! The clear kind!” he hollers back, head poking out from the bedroom. The front door closes right as he says it, and he chuckles to himself. ‘Always moving a mile a minute,’ he thinks, smiling as he thinks of you.  He makes his way out into the living room to grab his phone, texting you the information you missed and to remind you to slow down.

On his way back, he passes your stuff on the floor, scooping up the bags to put your things in your home office. As he grabs your computer bag, something falls out of the front pocket, a small red envelope addressed to a ‘Miss Y/M/N’ with hearts drawn around your name in the shape of another heart.

Erik picks it up, eyeing it while he turns it around in his hand for more details. He didn’t want to open it because he trusted you too much to be looking through your stuff, but he was curious who it could be from since it wasn’t February or anywhere near your birthday. And nobody ever called you by your middle name except for him (well, sometimes).

When he gets to your office, he places the rest of your stuff on your desk, plopping down in your chair, still fingering the card and twirling it between his hands.

It was already open, the seal broken, so he figured it couldn’t hurt to just take a quick look at it. It was just a card, after all. Probably a thank you from one of your work wives or something for all your hard work.

Pulling out the card, he opens it, the neat words written in near perfect cursive, almost looking like one of those instruction guides on how to write script. 

It read: 

‘The last three weeks have been the best I’ve ever had. I can’t wait to show you what else I can do this Friday.’

Love,

Bakari

The thing about Erik Stevens was, once he started to become suspicious, he became very dramatic about it, very fast.

And it never took much to get him suspecting.

“What the… yo who the fuck is this Bakari nigga?!” he gets heated within a millisecond, flipping the card over obsessively to try and find a number or something to let him know who this secret admirer was. 

There wasn’t even an address on the envelope, which meant that this fool either gave it to her when she was in class, or walked his bold ass up to his house, HIS HOUSE, and dropped it in the mailbox.

Erik couldn’t wait till you got home so you could explain to him what the hell he was looking at. He couldn’t believe some random no good nigga was tryna put the moves on his girl. Not his baby girl.

While Erik was back at home having a stage 5 meltdown, you were currently in the pasta isle trying to find the right udon noodles for the Anime and Manga marathon you and Erik had planned for this weekend.

You were super excited to show him your all time favorite Manga, Pearl Pink, which was the first manga you’d ever read.

You get a text on your phone, the device buzzing away in your back pocket as you reach down to grab your chosen noodles.

Thinking its more grocery demands from your black hole stomached boyfriend, you ignore it, waiting until you’re done shopping in this section to head over to the frozen isle he no doubt wants you to go to.

Erik: Y/N. Call. Me.

Erik: We can talk about this baby! Just tell me who Bakari is

Erik: I know you see these text messages girl, you better answer me goddammit

Erik: I’m sorry babygirl, I ain’t mean to curse at you like that. I just wanna talk baby please call me back.

Erik: Aight, coo then. 

All within a span of three minutes

He’d reneged on his earlier plan to wait until you got home, his anxiousness pushing him to reach out to you immediately.

He just wanted to hear your voice, hear something in it that told him that you were still his.

You’d just finished dumping a couple bags of your favorite Shrimp Chips into your basket, unsuspecting of the turmoil unraveling at home when your phone buzzes again, this time longer than before. 

You pull it out and look down to see that Erik’s calling you. Apparently he was getting very anxious about his food.

You put the phone to your ear, answering sweetly. “Hey baby, what you need?”

“You at that nigga house, ain’t you?” His voice was gruff and short, a stark contrast compared to the way you just answered the phone. “I knew I should of gone with you!”

Your face scrunches up into confusion. “Whose house? Erik what are you talking about?”

“Don’t try and front babygirl I seen the card!! How could you do me like that baby? After all we been through?!” You can hear his voice start to rise to an almost hysteric pitch, and you wonder if he’s been drinking since you last saw him 30 minutes ago.

“What card, Erik? Baby, slow down, you’re freakin me out. Look, I’mma be home in a second baby can you just hold on-”

“Just tell me who Bakari is Y/N! I just wanna know who that bitch ass nigga is!”

You pause, stopping in your tracks from rushing to push your cart to the nearest checkout line. You throw your head back and cackle, laughing so loud you scare the white elderly couple standing to your left. You wave your hand at them, trying to weakly apologize as tears threaten the corners of your eyes while you attempt to catch your breath. You dropped the phone in the cart when you bursted into hysterics, and all you can hear are the small faraway sounds of Erik trying to get your attention again.

“Why you laughin like that? Oh you forreal cheating on a nigga, huh? I can’t believe you got me out here looking stupid like this! I’m bout to run up on this mf…”

~~~

The Next Day

“Will you stop pacing please? You look like you’re ready to fight somebody.”

“I am ready to fight somebody Y/N. Yo you need to stop playing and just tell me where this nigga at so we can talk. I just wanna see wassup real quick.”

You start giggling again, chest bouncing as you try to stifle it with your hand over your mouth. You couldn’t wait to see the look on Erik’s face once he found out who it was.

The classroom empties out, the new students filtering in, ranging in all ages as they move about to find their seats in the college classroom.

Erik scans every guy who enters, sizing him up, trying to see if its him.

“Is it that nigga?” he leans over and whispers to Y/N, nodding to the dark chocolate brother with long dreads hanging down his back. “Really Y/N? You was gon trade me in for a hotep?” he looks at you bewildered, and you almost spit your coffee out your mouth. Oh, the irony.

“Look, Erik, you not bout to embarrass me here so you better shut the hell up and relax.” you whisper harshly, and he grumbles in submission, leaning back in his chair as his eyes still scan the students.

The bell sounds and you clear your throat, standing up from your chair and smoothing out your dress.

“Alright class, today we have a very special guest from the Wakandan International Outreach Center, Mr. Erik Stevens!”  Erik lifts from his chair, plastering on a warm smile as he waves around the room, greeting everybody before sitting again.

You continue. “He’ll be here to give us some information at the end of class on some of the amazing programs they have to offer over at WIOC.  In the mean time, he’s gonna be up here, helping us with our final projects!” you clap your hands together, and the class erupts into cheers, excitement over the days events filling up the room.

You step out in front of your desk to walk around the room, holding your chin as you think out loud.

“Hmmm… who wants to be the first one to come show Mr. Stevens what we’ve been working on? Anyone?” you ask, and a bunch of enthusiastic hands shoot up, waving around vigorously. 

“Hmmm… how about you, Bakari?” Erik’s head snaps towards the class, eyes looking around vigorously for the culprit. 

He scoots back from his chair, nearly running to the front of the class before colliding with you, hugging you tightly. 

You return the hug, looking back to see Erik’s face looking completely dumbfounded, and you snicker, taking a mental picture of it. You look down at the 3rd grader, smiling brightly.  “You ready to get started kiddo?”

“Yeah, Miss Y/M/N!”

You spend the next 15 minutes with Bakari and Erik at the whiteboard, practicing calligraphy samples for the class to see.

Erik is horribly bad at it, and Bakari sees to it to teach him how to do it, much to the amusement of both you and the students.

After a few more teaching lessons and a quick recap, you give the class 45 minutes to work on their final projects, the buzz of parents helping their children and exchanging information for play dates, giving the room a low hum.

You walk back to join Erik at your desk, finally taking a seat.

“So, Bakari is -”

“My 8 year old calligraphy student, yes.” you finish for him, cheeky smile peeking through as you rest your head in your hand and look at him.

“Your weekly Calligraphy classes,” Erik chuckles to himself, remembering now. “I completely forgot about them,” He blows out a sigh, running his hand down his face. Of all the possible scenarios he’d imagined, this one was the absolute furthest from his mind.

“I figured,” You snorted. “It’s only a four week program now that the college cut the funding. They’re saying they can only afford the curriculum for the grad and undergrad students now going forward.” You share, a little saddened at the news. You’d grown to really enjoy the extra curricular classes you got to teach outside of your regular art classes, and you were really heartbroken because you’d really grown to love the students too.

Erik takes your hand down by your lap, rubbing a thumb over the back of it. 

“Hey, the Outreach Center’s got more than enough funding to help keep the classes going, and plus we’ve been trying to get more involved in higher education programs anyway to better support our high school participants. This could be a great start for us.” he tells you, squeezing at your hand for assurance.

You look over to him, completely and utterly content with everything the man before you was. You don’t think you could ever love another person as much as you do Erik.

You smile, nodding your head to accept his offer. “I’m still tryna see this fight that you promised me, tho. What did you call him again? A bitch ass nigga?” You tease him, and he leans his head back and closes his eyes, quietly groaning.

“You’re never gonna let me live this down, are you?” he mutters, still embarrassed.

“Never.” You say, and you both laugh together. You link your pinky with his under the desk, both of you holding on to each other as you look out over the class.