#got to the thumb and was like. wait. i can only fit four of them on here.

[purpldawne]

i may or may not have forgotten i had two hands

[enha-roza]

FIRST TIME // SUNGHOON

Sunghoon x 8thmember!oc

warnings : smut kinda no plot, nicknames (princess, baby, pretty, slut..), safe sex, oral sex, big dick Sunghoon, a little angsty but fluffy by the end. continuation of first kisses

wc : 1.4k

Sunghoon was very possessive, so when he found out the other members had all kissed Roza before him, he was a 'little' jealous. “You kissed all of them before me!”. “Not like I planned it, it just happened!”. The two were yelling back and forth after the other members went out to eat. Sunghoon getting worked up, accused her of purposely leaving him out. “Well you could have been a little more considerate!”. “Ughh, you only think about yourself! This whole four boyfriends thing is hard okay!”. Tears welling up in her eyes. “I constantly feel like I'm not enough. I find it hard to distribute my attention across all four of you… I feel like I can't do it…”. 

Sunghoon froze, now realizing how his words had affected her. More tears fell as she turned away from him, ashamed to cry in this moment. His arms wrapped around her, head leaning down to whisper in her hair. “I'm sorry for yelling at you, I didn't mean it. I know that's not an excuse, I got frustrated and took it out on you”. Roza’s sniffles quieted as she calmed her breathing. Turning around she looked Sunghoon in the eyes, seeing his regret. He reached up cupping her face, wiping her tears with his thumb.

Wrapping her arms around his neck as she spoke. “It's okay… this is new for all of us… it's gonna take time for us to get used to it”. Sunghoon's heart pounded in his chest at her words. “You're too kind, you know?”. “You think?”. “Yeah…” his eyes staring down at her lips. “Can i?”. “Yes please…” she whispered, pulling him in to kiss her.

Finally Sunghoon tastes her lips as he pushes her against the wall behind them. Their lips rushing as heat rises quickly. Sunghoon grunts as he pushes his tongue past Roza’s lips. Roza very happily accepts his advances. “God, I can't believe you made me wait for this”. “Shut up and kiss me”. Sunghoon didn't need to be told twice before diving in again, capturing her plump lips in between his own.

Sunghoon leans his head down as he kisses down her jaw and neck. Roza moans and he bites into her neck before his tongue runs over the mark to soothe the pain.  “Aren't you adorable… moaning and whining all for me”. She nods her head. Sunghoon grabs her chin before whispering. “Say it… say who's making you feel like this”. “You… you are Sunghoon Oppa…”. He smirks showing his fangs. Feeling himself get hard at her words, he leans in, needing her lips on his again.

Slowly walking til the back of her legs hit the edge of Sunghoons bed. Watching his eyes as they gloss over looking down at her. “You really wanna do this?”. “Please… I need it Oppa”. Sunghoon smirks, happy to see his princess weak for him. “Good because I don't think I can hold back any longer”. Pushing her to lay back on his bed, Sunghoon fits between her legs as he continues their make out. Once again leaving kisses down her neck as goes lower and lower. Settling at her thighs, he pushes her skirt up leaving small kisses and hickeys all over. “Look how pretty…” His fingers brushing over the marks in adoration. 

Sliding his finger over her pantie covered clit, just slow enough to tease her. “Mmm, more… I need more!”. “Yeah pretty? want me… tell me, where do you want me?” She sighs as Sunghoon applies more pressure. “In me! Need you in me!”. His fingers pull her panties to the side, teasing her clit as he slowly slides in two middle fingers in.

Moans leave Roza’s lips as Sunghoon pushes his fingers in fully, pulling back out to do it all over again. His eyes rack over her body, so prettily laid out, head thrown back as the prettiest sounds leave her lips. “You're so good for me princess”. The nickname making her clench around his fingers. “You like that name, don't you… princess knows how to make me smile”. His smirk widening as she whines out at his words. 

He slides her panties off and pulls her top up past her tit. His fingers slid in and out faster and harder and he pulls her tits out of her bra bringing his lips to suck on her nipple. Her hands automatically go to his hair pulling as she moans, all the pleasure taking her over. “I'm close… a little more” Her voice straining as the constant whines get higher and higher.

Sunghoon could feel her clenching around him tighter and tighter, she was close. His head dips down as his tongue runs over her clit. “Ahhhh, right there!”. His fingers dip deeper as he brings her to her climax. His tongue collects all her cum as she tries pushing his head away from overstimulation.

“Want me baby?”. She nods. “No, you're words princess. Let me hear you”. “Need you now… please! Need more!”. “Say it again, you got to beg for it baby”. Roza begins to beg and whine for his cock, coming down from her high. “Please- please Oppa… need you now! I can take it, please!”. Sunghoon, feeling his pants tighten even more, can't help but give in. “yeah, need me… of course you do”.

Pulling down his pants, Roza’s eyes on his huge bulge. “Like what you see?”. She nods her head, mouth watering just at the sight of him. “Why don't you help me out? Need a little attention myself”. Roza quickly gets to her knees, pulling down his underwear. Grabbing him at his base, then bringing her hand to his tip, smearing his precum. 

“Hurry up princess, wanna have my fun with you before the others get back”. She quickly does as he says, not wanting the other to walk in on them. Her tongue poking out, leaving kitten licks all over his veiny cock. Sunghoon’s hand glides into her hair, grabbing a handful to push her head down. Roza allows him to push her head down half way, before pulling her back up his cock.

“You like when I pull your hair? You slut… know how to please me…” softs grunts in between words as he pushes her all the way, making her gag. “Good girl... taking all of me". He groans as he continues to push her down his cock. "A little more princess, I'm so close”. Roza determined to please him, breathes though her nose and let's him face fuck her until he’s pulling her off cumming right on her lips. 

Her tongue licks his sweet cum off before swallowing and showing her empty mouth. “How good you are… lay back down princess, need to be in you bad”. She didn't need to be told again, quickly laying on her back as Sunghoon went and got a condom. Coming back, he slips it on before teasing her entrance. “Hmmm, please. Don't tease me”. “Why shouldn't i? You sound so pretty”.

Right as she goes to beg once more, she gets interrupted by Sunghoon pushing his tip in. Slowly pushing in fully and groaning as she tightens around him. "you okay?" Sunghoon groans as Roza closes her eyes feeling the stretch. “ahhhh, so good… more!” Sunghoon can't help but deny her any longer. Moans fill the room as Sunghoon slowly gets faster and faster. Looking down Sunghoon sees the bulge in her stomach, running his hand over it, eyebrows coming together as he feels his cock pulse. "too big!". "you can take it...". The burn feels so good as Roza holds on to the bed sheets for her life.

Sunghoon's head leans down forehead touching Roza's. "you look so pretty...". A whine leaves her lips in response. "feel good baby?". "yeahhh... so good!". Sunghoon's cheeks hurt as he smiles down at his princess all worked up because of him. “So good! Ughmmm”. Sunghoon, peppering more kisses up her neck and jaw before kissing her on her lips. Pulling back up, his hands grab her waist as he pounds into her, leaving bruises. Roza’s eyes fighting to stay open as her head leans back in pleasure.

“Keep your eyes on me baby” Sunghoon grunted as he grabbed her chin. “Wanna see you fall apart on my cock” She moans as her high approaches, eyes half lidded as they look into Sunghoon’s. His hand reaches down to play with her clit, bringing more noise out of her lips as she cums. Sunghoon's following suit cumming into the condom as she clench's around him, a low groan slipping out as he comes down from his high. 

“Fuck… that was so good”. “Mmm”. “can't talk baby? Fuck you that good?”. Roza closes her eyes, nodding as she hides her face behind her hands. “Don't hide from me! You look so good like this… you're glowing”. Both pulled out of their sentimental moment when Sunghoon’s phone dings. “Shit, what's the time?”. “Fuck they'll be back soon”. Sunghoon quickly picks Roza up bridal style and takes  her to the shower to clean off.

Both helping clean each other off, letting the warm water run over them. They held each other as they relaxed after a stressful day. “They will be back any minute, so I'm gonna clean my room. Don't want them suspecting anything”. Roza smiled as Sunghoon leaned down getting another kiss from her before getting out. Roza smiled to herself, having her first time with Sunghoon was not how she expected her day to go. But nonetheless she was happy.

a/n : really happy with how this turned out. am planning to do first times for the other hyung line members, so stay tuned!! xoxo

[little-forest-goblin]

Love you writing ugh can we get reader giving pda that quickly escalates to teasing so once in private.. 🤨🤨 you wrap this as you desire oop

Of course! im so happy you love my writing! So here it is! The story you have been waiting for!

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Tease me, Please me

Warnings: PDA, teasing in public, P in V, Dom five, creampie (Don't worry i hate the word too), leg grinding, roughish smut, already established relationships, Teeth rotting fluff.

NOTE: This story is taken place after the apocalypse in season 4 but everyone lived, five and lila never became a thing, lila and diego's relationship got better (AKA counseling)

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You and five were currently out with the family. Five was not exactly to keen on this whole family outing thing. His family already had issues but to drag you into his crazy whirlwind of a family was out of the question. But angelface you begged hik to meet his family excited and despite himself being nervous about you interacting with his chaotic family he couldnt help but feel flattered you were so excited and willing, no matter how crazy they were, to meet them.

“Come on five! I want to meet them!” you begged holding his hand

he sighed “Come on y/n you dont want to meet them. Their crazy and more than likely will drag you into something that will get you hurt”

you took his hand intertwining both of your fingers. “Baby…i know you worry about me but im grown just like you. We have been through so much together and one family outing wont hurt anyone. Whatever comes our way we can face it like we always do…together” you looked up at him from where you were seated

Despite his stoic facade it cracked into something soft. That boy was a goner for you.

so that's how you ended up here in diegos van. Diego had insisted on bringing the van saying nobody needed to drive themselves cause the van can fit everyone. He insisted that it was repaired recently and was as good as new. Ot was repaired but it was still cramped. Diego neglected to say that the seat where not exactly big enough to fit four people without one of those people practically hanging off the seat and leaning forward slightly to fit.

“Diego, i know you love your van but we can not fit like this without getting back problems” five said as he crossed his arms

Everyone was getting packed into said van. Luckily they didnt add kids to the list. That would have been hell on earth. Allison had let claire stay home by herself. She was teenager so theres really no need for a babysitter and she had her own phone so there's no trouble contacting her. Lila and diego had lilla’s mother babysit there kids which was good. There only hope was that the kids grandma and grandpa didnt spoil them rotten by the time they got them back.

“Oh come on five we can all fit in there. We have before” diego said as he was unsmudging the blindspot mirror.

five sighed pinching the bridge of his nose “I dont feel like having my back or y/n’s back hurt because we have to lean and sit on the edge of the seat.”

diego licked his thumb and wiped at the mirror “Than we will have someone else do it”

five made a face of annoyance “No thats not- ugh” he wiped a hand down his face “That defeated the purpose im trying to come across with! Nobodys back should hurt!”

you had heard the commotion and arguing coming from five and diego. You were currently getting acquainted with klaus. Some would say overly acquainted considering he was giving information nobody asked for but he couldnt help it he was so excited to see the woman that had five swooning. Little did you know klaus has been asking to meet you for so long.

You went over to five and diego just as it was getting into a heated argument

“Technically you only said her and you so this is a thing you should figure out” diego said with a hint of annoyance

fives eyelid twitched in annoyance his lips parted to give diego a bite back but you caught it. You took fives hand spinning him around and kissed him muffling his yells. His eyes were wide in shock but melted seeing that it was you.

you pulled back and put a hand on his cheek your thumb gently rubbing “Hello, babe”

he smiled and pushed his face further into your hand “Hello, love”

you smiled looking him in the eyes “How about this. Instead of fighting i just sit in your lap in the car hm?”

he nodded a little to eagerly but he never could deny that he didnt want you as close as possible at all times. You and him have had that discussion before. About space that is. After all the apocalypse’s and the near death experiences and meeting you he snapped and needed you at all times. you were there the whole time to keep him from completely falling apart and it really strengthened you and his relationship

diego smiled a little at his little, older brother and walked away giving you two privacy. which you and five took advantage of. He kissed you and this time you melted into butter. It was sweet and tender and needy. You kissed right on back without a sense of hesitation.

One hand stayed on his cheek. His hand trailed up your arm and gripped your chin keeping you to him. It made you blush and flustered. you pulled off and he smirked. your cheeks were red. You chuckled and playfully smacked his arm

diego played it off as if he was disgusted by what he saw but when he turned away to say bye to his kids he had a hint of a smile. In all actuallity he was very happy to see his brother with someone he loved.

Once Everyone was ready and the van was set up everyone got into there’s spots. Because of the room five didnt take the front seat and instead took the backseat where there was a little more room. You crawled into his lap and sat there with him.

You giggled and wrapped your arms around his neck “Well hello there handsome, come around here often?” you joked with a little flirty tone

Five smiled and pretended to be in thought “Hm, well i dont think so but if you call me i can be anywhere you want me to be”

you laughed as his head buried into your neck ans sprinkled it with kisses

“Agh! five no!” you laughed and squirmed because it tickled

his hands went to your waist holding you still “What? im not doing anything!” he said teasingly

you hit at his chest (not to hard) laughing. “Five im ticklish stop! you know this!”

he began to tickle your sides “Oh no no no no this is all news to me!”

“You evil man!”

Ben groaned as he opened the door to find his brother and his girlfriend getting all touchy “Can you idiots please maybe find a room?”

you looked at ben and five gave him a death stare of annoyance. “Just cause your lonely doesnt mean we have to be”

Eventually the van began to move to the restaurant they were going to have dinner at. You gasped a little when the car rocked a little to hard your arms wrapping around fives neck. He chuckled and his hands slid down slowly to your waist. It made your cheeks pink

As the car rocked so did you and his bodies and it rocked against eachother. The plushness of your ass grinded a little against his clothed length making his brain short circuit and some blood go down to his cock

you noticed as it strained in his pants a little. He tried not to pay attention to it or draw to much attention but you felt his fingers hold onto you tighter. You smirked and rubbed back on him swiveling your hips and applying pressure. It made him hiss and grip you tighter. His hand went to your chin pulling your face to look at him

“You're playing a scary game sweetheart. You sure you wanna finish this game?” he whispered looking directly into your eyes

you swallowed but held your own your smirking appearing on your face again “Maybe i do wanna play a little longer”

he growled and his face buried in your neck leaving hot kisses and nips. It made your eyes close and hand travel into his hair.

Before it got heated the car jolted making you almost fall out of his lap. He held you close and laughed

“That wasnt funny i almost died!!”

he laughed “You didnt almost die you drama queen.”

diego apologized after that. His van was still infact a bucket of bolts.

Once you guys got to the restaurant you all were led by the host to the table and were sat down. The family was talking to eachother and having fun. Drinks came around.

Somewhere during the night his hand ended up on your thigh. You jumped a little. Viktor noticed

“Hey you alright y/n?” viktor asked with a concerned look

you nodded “Yep im fine sorry”

viktor nodded and went ahead back to his conversation with allison. You looked at five who gave a lopsided smirk and his hand kept going higher up your thigh. You swallowed and your face began to grow hot. His hand kept going up till it reached under your dress and was at the edge of your panties. You decided to fuck him up before he could get you. Under the table as he picked up his drink and sipped it you grabbed his dick through his pants. It made him choke and jump in his seat.

you snickered and hid your smile in your palm. Water was down his chin he looked over at you as he wiped away the water

“Your gonna get it went we got home…”

you smirked. Oh goodie how fun. your smirk was wiped when under the table he pulled your panties to the side. Your eyes widened and your head snapped to him.

“Five!” you whisper yelled

He chuckled and went back to the conversation like he wasnt doing anything. Your leg bounced nervously. Your heart pounded in the anxiety of being caught but pounded in excitement at the same time. His fingers gently rubbed circles into your clit. You gasped but covered it with a cough. This earned a few looks but it was better than them finding out.

You decided to play him in his own game. Your hands went to his belt and gently unbuckled careful not to make the metal clinking sounds so obvious.

his eyes widened as he felt your hand go under his pants and boxers and wrap around his cock. He hissed and his hands pulled away and grabbed your wrist.

He leaned to whisper in your ear “Go to the restrooms. Now.”

your eyes widened and you politely excused yourself and went to the restrooms and it wasn't long cause he was following you. His hand came over your mouth and pulled you into a stall and slammed you against the stall wall. Thankfully this place was clean.

“You have been testing me all day. That little stunt in the car…rubbing your ass against my dick” he cut his own words off with a hiss of pleasure just at the thought. His eyes were dark and intense.

you smirked up at him “You act as if your innocent. your hand under my skirt?” you chuckled

he made a mocking laugh “Now now princess. Lets not forget your hands grabbed my dick like it was instinct”

you swallowed. You kinda forgot about that even though it was just seconds ago.

He leaned in and kissed you passionate and hard. Like he was desperate and wanted to consume you whole. You happily reciprocated your eyes closing and your lips moving in time with him.

His hands trailed your body feeling every curve and contour of your body until they gripped your hips and waist pulling you gently closer against himself. His lips going down your jaw and neck pepperong it with a mix of sweet, needy and chaste with hot, passionate and lustful kisses, nips and hickeys

Your hand traveled into his hair pulling him in closer refusing to let him get farther away not willing to get farther away. Your other hand went to his arm holding him there. His knee went between your legs his hands that where on your waits and hips gently grinded you on his knee.

your lips parted as soft pants left you. your hand tightening in his hair making him groan in both pain and pleasure.

The bathroom door suddenly opens somebody coming in. He puts his hand over your mouth to keep you quiet. He whispered im your ear

“Dont make a sound…” his lips brish the outerpart of your ear “Be a good girl and please yourself on my knee”

you nodded softly. He pulled his hand away and wrapped your arms around his neck as he pressed his knee up higher so you could better put pressure and please yourself. You moved your hips back and forth a quiet sigh left you and you laid your forehead on his chest. The feeling of his pants rubbing against your panties made you dizzy.

He smirked and held your waist keeping you upright. Just when you and him thought you were alone another person came in. He growled in annoyance. Once that person left he pulled his knee away “This isnt over princess”

You and him left the bathroom going back to the table in a hurry. Klaus smirked knowingly “How did the little bang sesh go?”

you choked on your drink

“Klaus!!” five yelled

Klaus snickered. Everyone at the table kinda tried to avoid opening that can of unpleasant worms. you avoided eye contact until your eyes landed on lila who secretly pointed to her own neck and signalled you. That confused you until your eyes widened. You picked up your phone and looked through the camera. Your eyes widened upon seeing the purple hickeys and you looked to five who was laughing to himself.

you sighed. This was gonna be a long ass night.

Later when dinner was done and everybody was tuckered out everybody crowded back into the van you in fives lap again. Allison decided to take an uber. She was eager to go back home to see claire and ray. That meant klaus went along with her.

This left the all the way back of the car to you and five. You were in fives lap though because why not. Nobody paid attention to you two in the back to tired or wrapped up in small talk. But mostly tired.

The bumpy ride leaving you and him pent up with how much his cock would grind against your panties. His cock strained in his pants he wraoped his arm around your waist. You were kissing him softly. He smiled against your lips as his hand snuck under your skirt and pulled your panties to the side making you gasp. His fingers rubbing circles on your clit making you squirm.

“F…five they will notice” you said quietly

he shook his head “No they wont”

you moaned into the kiss. He would smother them when they got to loud. Your legs began to shake and tighten together he would just rub faster your hips threatened to buck but he held them down and brought you over the edge. His hand coming and covering your mouth that threatened to scream from pleasure. The tops of your thighs slickened with your own cum and arousal. He chuckled in your ear “Good girl..”

When the van parked at you and five’s apartment He was quickly blinking you both out of the van and into the apartment your back hitting the bed. You and him were kissing hard and passionately needy and lustful but full of love thats hard to say out loud.

he pulled back sitting on his knee’s as he unbuckled his belt “Been teasing me all night. Naughty girl.”

you smirked “Are you gonna teach me a lesson than?”

he smiled as he undressed all the way “Mhmm gonna fuck the attitude right out of you”

you quickly got undressed. He helped you with your bra but you pulled your underwear down yourself. Sliding it down your legs making him swallow back a glob of spit

“Fuck princess” he growled as he stroked his cock “So fucking pretty and all fucking mine”

you laid back on the bed and chuckled smiling and using your oegs to gently guide him closer which he of course obliged. He lined himself up and his free hand went to your waist and he pushed in making your lips part with a silent moan. He teased by pushing in only to the tip but pulling back.

He did this till you were desperate and so wet

“Five god damn it please!” you begged looking up at him desperately.

His tip glistened with your arousal and his beads of precum. ahe himself was close to begging but having to remember he was in control. He chuckled “Alright princess”

he slammed inside making you gasp and your back arch up as he filled you deliciously. He stayed still letting you adjust. He hissed through his teeth “Fuck your so tight”

you pulled him closer needing him close. He happily obliged. He may not act like it with others but he was a sucker for being intimate and close. Not with random people but with people like you. Ones he really loved. Once you adjusted he moved slowly at first wanting you to beg for him to go faster. You tried to hold your own. You tried to move yourself but he held your waist down giving you a smirk until you broke

“Five god damn it please!!” you yelled out

“please what, princess?” he smirked slowly and gently moving his cock in and out

You pulled him closer with your hand in his hair as he trailed his lips across your neck “Please five please just go faster god damn it…i need you so much!”

he smirked and sped up fucking you with vehemence and need. You and his hips met over and over his cock sliding in and out like you were made for him. He lifted his head and kissed you which you reciprocated. He swallowed your moans into the kiss.

It felt like your body was on fire. Every touch was not enough and to much at the same time. His cock punched all the air out of you leaving you breathless. Your hands left his hair and found his own where you intertwined and pinned them beside your head.

he be pulled off from the kiss “I dont want you holding back any sounds. I want you to be fucking loud. Let this whole building know who’s woman you are.”

the night was filled with your moans and his groans. The bed shook and banged against the wall definitely giving tall tale signs across the building.

You felt your orgasm tighten in your belly like a cord. It tightened and threatened to snap. Your back arched and squirmed “Five! fuck im so close baby!”

five nodded and kissed her neck and pulled back “Im so close to, y/n. Fuck im so close. cum with me baby”

your head fell back and he grabbed your chin pulling your head to look at him in the eyes. “Dont look away from me, baby. Look me in my eyes.”

you nodded as the cord frayed and finally snapped sending you over the edge your moans coming out loud and he nodded “Mhm there it is baby there it is. Oh fuck!”

he came with you cumming inside filling you and painting your walls with his hot cum.

you both was stuck panting. You leaned up and kissed him capturing his lips in a passionate loving kiss.

You and him laid down and held each other in an embrace. his hand petted your hair and you and him were both wrapped around each other snuggling and cuddling before you had to get cleaned up.

He whispered to you like a secret only you were to hear and not the universe “I love you, y/n. You are the best thing that has happened to me in my very long life”

you smiled and looked up at him. “I love you too five. Even though i havent lived as long of a life i know that you are and always will be the best thing”

you both laid there wrapped in each other's love and the afterglow of your love making.

———————————————————————Hi guys! i hope you really like my story! This request i went a little much with but i hope it is adequate! i love you be safe please 💋 😘

[clancycatears]

BEFORE HE LEAVES CHAPTER FOUR

You pass your interview and prepare to start your college classes. Kyle has news to share with you, and you struggle with what he tells you.

chapter-specific warnings: humor, gentleman gaz, inaccuracies (military and college), a smidge of angst, anxiety, i hope the timeline so far makes sense.

Settling into the flat—your new life—with Kyle was easier than you thought.

But only for the first week.

It started with returning home to find a giant package on your doorstep. Your mattress. Thank you, Mémé.

It took only a few minutes to set it up in your open room. You had no bed frame, no box spring, and a mere blanket you’d brought to keep yourself warm on the flight to London.

“There’s no way that’d keep you warm!” Kyle had insisted, and with a twirl of his keys, he was out the door. You were left to finish unpacking alone.

Luckily, the bypass closet came with clothes hangers, so you could drape what you had onto a rod that extended throughout the length of the closet. When you took a good look at it afterwards, your heart sank to your stomach.

You really, really didn’t have a lot to your name. A few pairs of shirts and trousers, two cardigans, and a single zip-up hoodie. Okay, not only did you need to go to that interview, but you’d need to repeat outfits for a few days before you could hit up the local thrift store to get a tad more clothing.

Especially since winter was just in a few months.

Before you could sink deeper into thought, Kyle returned. The rattle of the door caught your attention and led you out of your bedroom. He elbowed through the front door with a giant clear bag of bedsheets in his hands.

You cross your arms, watching as he kicks the door shut with his foot, and discards his keys on the kitchen island. “What’s that?”

“Your duvet,” giggles Kyle, setting down the bag beside the sofa and rolling his shoulders. “That mattress was a full size, right? Hope so, ‘cause that’s what I got.”

“You really didn’t have to do that,” you murmur. It had to be the third time since you’ve known him that you’ve said that.

He shrugs, before picking up the bag and marching to your room. “Can’ have you getting much until y'start that job, yeah?”

You follow him in your room, your ears burning. “I could’ve lived without that for a few days.”

“S’okay. Wanna get you as comfy as possible before I gotta go,” he insists, opening up the package before draping your mattress cover on first. “You said that interview was on Sunday?”

“Yes. Can you drive me?” You lean on the threshold to your room.

“Oh!” Kyle perks up, just as he’d started to tuck in the fitted sheet. “That reminds me.”

You raise a brow as he stands up straight, digging into his back pocket. “Catch.” You flinch, cupping your hands out in front of you as he throws you a pair of keys.

“What’s this?” you ask dumbly, jingling the keys between your index and thumb.

“Spare keys for m’car,” he hums, returning to making your bed. “Ordered ‘em yesterday.”

You watch in disbelief as he folds sheet after sheet onto your mattress, keys squeezed under your palm as you let your thoughts wander once more.

Kyle was too trusting—too nice—for a man who was supposed to be a battle-ready Sergeant. Or maybe he could just read you like a book. Read that you were honest and helpless.

Then came Sunday.

Throwing on the most presentable clothes you have, Kyle wishes you a “good luck” from the kitchen as you shuffle out the door.

You don’t know how long you sat in the parking lot, foot tapping against the lower pads of the driver’s seat as you waited for your interview time. You just had to show up fifteen minutes early.

So you pass the time by observing the interior of Kyle’s car. It was neat, tidy. Even the dashboard looked shiny. There was an air freshener—the Little Trees brand—labeled as “Leather”. Didn’t exactly smell of leather, but it still smelled nice regardless.

The windshields were clean, like he’d just washed them. Every window was clear, not a smudge in sight. A few coins of change rested in the center console, along with a pack of gum shoved deeper inside.

Decent mileage on the car, at least for the Mustang. 80,000 miles so far. You feel a little crestfallen, because now that you're using it with him, the miles will rack up faster. You really needed to start saving up for your own beater so you didn't have to dip into your college fund.

The Mustang was a convertible, too. But you assume Kyle didn't use it often, because of how intact the vinyl was. Maybe a small rip or two here and there, but perfectly uncastrated overall. Maybe you could put it to good use when you have your turn with the car.

He took good care of his car, another observation to note.

When the interview with Holly came around, you could tell from her looks alone that she was friendly. Extremely nice, maybe even too nice. Looked to be in her early twenties, dressed professionally, and stacking papers in a café booth when you walked into the establishment.

She gave you a giddy grin, green eyes sparkling with excitement as you took your seat across from her.

The usual questions droned on.

“What are your strengths and weaknesses?” yada-yada-yada.

“Why did you choose us?” yada-yada-yada.

“When can you start?” Bam. Job secured.

Two years of working in a coffee shop in America piqued their interest. You were lucky to have been promoted into a shift manager just before your move, so that likely caught Holly’s attention.

No problem starting from the top again, you’ve done it once, you can do it again.

You left the café with a folded company apron, a short-sleeved shirt to wear under it, and some paperwork to fill out for direct deposits.

Walking through the door with your things, Kyle approaches you with a wide smile. “Ohhh, brilliant! Y'got it?”

“Yes,” you murmur, placing your keys in the dish you set up beside the air fryer. “I start on Wednesday for training.”

“Mm,” he hums, returning to the kitchen to wash a few stray dishes. “Y’get discounts?”

“Is that you asking for free coffee when I work?” You bring your uniform to the washing machine and dryer beside the front door, opening the washer up and shoving your apron inside.

“‘Course I am. Would you?” you can hear the smile on his lips.

You roll your eyes as you cross the kitchen towards your room. “I owe you, anyways. So sure. Pretty sure I could bring plenty home when training starts.”

He bends over to open the dishwasher, filling the racks with the last of the dishes before dropping a packet of detergent into its slot, and starting the cleaning process. “Y’owe me nothin’. Just wan’ some coffee once n’ a while.”

“I can do that.” You return to the washing machine with dirty laundry, adding it to what you’ve already stuffed inside.

Days dragged along, every one giving you a lingering, nervous ache. You were going to pick up where you left off in a new University, but in an entirely new country. New people, new places to see, new teachers and peers, in less than a week.

It was silly, you thought, to be this afraid. On edge. It’s only your third year, then you had just one more until you graduated with a bachelor’s degree.

Something about moving on from your norm, and out of your comfort zone, made you overthink over and over again. How should you act? Should you be yourself? Will the community be ruthless, or welcoming? It’d just have to come with time, the day you start your classes next Monday.

You and Kyle mingled, though not awkwardly in the slightest. He was sweet, gentlemanly, reliable—the perfect roommate, in your eyes.

Tuesday night, after you both cooked up a chicken and homemade macaroni dish together, was where you both got the most free time to actually talk to one another.

Bumping your knee softly under the table, you scrape up a spoonful of your macaroni, your eyes flicking up to find Kyle already looking at you. His cheeks bounced with every chew, his free hand tapping away at the polished wood, before he swallowed and opened his mouth to speak.

“So… about University starting…” he begins, voice low, solemn, like he was about to deliver the worst news of your life.

You gulp down your bite, straightening up in your seat slightly, only worsening the ache in your ass from a lack of cushioning. “What’s up?”

He rubs the back of his neck, pushing his fork into a slice of chicken to hold it in place. “So I'm leaving… gotta go away for a while. Next Tuesday.”

You pause, a spoonful of macaroni stopping midway. You place the utensil back on your plate, resting your elbows on the table to clasp your hands together. “How long?”

He’s quiet for a beat, and you can feel the table rattle as he bumps his knee in a faster tandem than your own. “Few months? Maybe five or fix.”

“Oh,” you utter, keeping your eyes on him, as he does the same with you.

You were aware he was leaving; he's reminded you at least twice. Though you never expected it to be so long. How would you manage without him? You still hardly knew what you were doing. You still found yourself forgetting your house keys or your purse on days where you needed to rush.

Kyle would be the one to blurt, "Oh, forgetting this?" while holding up your lost item. Not an ounce of teasing in his tone, just concern. Admittedly, you were going to miss that.

“But m’sure I c’n get breaks in-between,” he adds quickly, nudging his chicken with his fork. “Jus’ depends how it all goes.”

“You goin’ out of the country?” You scoop your neglected spoonful into your mouth and chew.

Kyle’s eyes cast to the side. “Yes, Herat. Afghanistan.”

You make a small, saddened noise of acknowledgment. You chew slowly, like focusing on the taste of your dinner would soothe the disappointment.

“Rent will pay automatically, don’ worry about that,” he assures, finally shoving a piece of chicken in his mouth. “Pays righ’ f’rm m’bank,” he adds, voice muffled through his chewing.

You nod slowly. “Should I be worried?”

He swallows, perking his head up to you with his brows raised. “‘Course not. Unless there’s a box at th’ door.” His stance hardens as your eyes widen. “Y’don’ have to worry ‘bout that, though. M’good at what I do.”

Your lips twitch into a frown. “Then don’t say it like that.”

“I c’n text, call, when I have time. But thas’ hard t’come by.” His voice pitches, like he’s working to reassure you. “You c’n throw parties, make a mess of th’ place, whatever. As long as it’s still home when I come back.”

Your frown only deepens. “M’not an animal.”

“I know,” he replies hastily, shaking his head and pinching the line between his brows. “Sorry. You’ll be fine. Trust me.”

You release a deep sigh, shoulders sagging as you swipe another bit of food into your maw. “Okay, just… Don’t die on me, yeah?”

He chuckles lightly. “Made it this far, haven’ I?”

Despite his efforts, the worry pooling in your stomach is hard to ignore. It festers—growls—whispers its words of refutation into your ears like it wanted to sit there every single day Kyle was away.

You both finished dinner in silence—and this time, not as peacefully. Kyle looked calm. Of course he did; he's done this for years. Leaves for periods of time and leaves the flat to its own devices.

Though now you're here. You could keep the place tidy, take care of Dodger just fine, and have all of the alone time that you desire.

But you didn't want alone time. The last thing you wanted to be was alone. The last thing you wanted was to barely hear from him while he was away. The last thing you wanted was to juggle school, work, and taking care of the flat by yourself. You wanted him here to show you the ropes—to soothe your nerves with his kindness.

You went to bed that night with your pillow tucked to your chest, heart tight and head pounding with the stress of being the woman of the house. You had to be, though. This flat was his and yours now. You had just as much responsibility over it as him.

You had to get out of your comfort zone.

Think of it like the café. Starting from the top shouldn’t be so bad, especially if you already knew what you were doing.

Wednesday morning is abrupt, the blare of your alarm jolting you from your dreamless slumber. Shoving your bedsheets away from your lap, you throw your feet over the mattress and stand up groggily. With a stretch of your arms, you approach your closet, opening it to find your neatly hung apron.

You stand there for a moment, gaze lingering on the article. Today, you get to know more people—more than just your Mémé and Kyle. You need to make a living. You can't chicken out and leave Kyle to pay the rent by himself.

You need t’meet people.

Tugging your apron free, you get to work, undressing out of your sleepwear and throwing on your uniform. Dodger lies curled up by your pillow, his curious green eyes following your every movement as you pace throughout the bedroom, collecting your belongings and shoving them into a small purse.

Wallet, check. Keys, check. Gum, check. Still, you double-checked.

You leave your room to the soft hum of music coming from the kitchen. Of course, Kyle was awake. He was always awake at least an hour or two before you. Rubbed off from his profession, he'd said once.

You smooth your apron down as you cross the kitchen and head straight to the front door. You don't say a word, but you can feel Kyle's gaze eventually burn into the back of your neck as you're shoving your non-slip sneakers onto your feet.

"Hey, mornin'," he murmurs, and you reply with a quick "morning" before tying your shoes together.

You hear him audibly sigh, and the music turns down a beat. "Mind getting me an espresso?"

"Sure, just text me how you like it," you mumble, scooping up your keys from your purse. "See ya."

As you're wriggling the door open and sliding out, you hear a small "see you" before you promptly shut the door behind you.

< chapter three || table of contents || chapter five >

taglist 🏷️ @santanatenofcups

© clancycatears 2025. do not copy, steal, translate, or feed my works to ai.

[giuliettagaltieri]

Swarm of Bees

Pairing: Fiancé!Gojō x Fiancée!Reader

Chapter Synopsis: Gojō Satoru gets a taste of his own medicine.

Warning: angst, arranged marriage, age gap, hints of dacryphilia, Gojō is a bully at heart.

Word Count: 1596

3 of 9

There are many things that Gojō Satoru hates.

One, the higher ups of the jujutsu society.

Two, when people say “No offense, but…” And proceed to insult him.

Three, people who get in his way.

And four, when he is not getting the attention he deserves.

In the past few years, Gojō has been working as a teacher in the Jujutsu High.  He still leaves for missions, it was only expected as he is the strongest sorcerer.  But he stays in the school quite often compared to when he was a field sorcerer.

And quite frankly, he expected more visits from a certain someone.

But he never got them anymore.

Shoko would often put out her cigarette to drop her face on her palms whenever Gojō talks about this.  And he cannot understand why she does that.

From time to time, he receives gifts from you.  But no more letters.  Nothing that adds a personal touch from you.  Just food.  As if you’re sending them so he won’t forget you existed.

But if he were to be asked, forgetting you was impossible as your time to be wedded comes closer and closer.

And now, you are celebrating your 20th naming day.

You turned into a beautiful young lady.  Truly worthy of him. 

But much to his aggravation, it seems like many took notice of your change too.

Men from different clans were hovering over you. 

Greeting you, complimenting you about the simplest of things.  It made something inside him itch and it bothered him to no end.

They only liked you now because you turned out to be a well-polished woman.  They did not see you with snot on your nose as you wailed after scraping your knee, which he absolutely had no involvement whatsoever or when your face bubbled like a squirrel when you did not get your way.

“You’re pouting.”  Shoko comments as she sips on her glass of champagne.

The celebration was at its peak.  The musical ensemble was playing a lively tune and gossips and giggles were filling the floral air of your estate house.

And you, the center of the event.

Almost every pair of eyes were on you.

Gone was the shy little lady of your house.  You are now a woman who is ready to take her first steps into society.  You were like a fresh fruit, ripe for the taking.  Had it not been for Gojō’s presence, many insolent men would have asked, no, begged for your hand right then.

Your hair glittered with every turn of your head.  Your painted lips curving up to a perfect smile whenever a gentleman compliments you.  Yet the innocent smile is always paired with the haughty spark in your eyes as you decline their offer to dance.

It was the fourth time that you declined an offer in the same hour.

And Gojō Satoru cannot stand to watch such blatant disrespect any longer.

Both Shoko and Nanami follow him with their watching eyes as he makes his way to you.  Their feet are ready to move as soon as the man makes a fool of himself or starts a fit in the middle of your perfect evening.  Or both.

They were at the edge of their seats when Gojō clears his throat to catch your attention.  The two of them watch very closely for any sudden movement from any of you.

But like fluid from the most graceful of waterfalls, you rise from your seat, standing on the tip of your toes to lean on Gojō’s chest.

All breaths halted at your action, including the man you were smiling up to.  His crystalline blue eyes watching you, almost calculating your every move.  But you smile slyly at him as your fingers trace his jaw and your lips find his cheek.

“I am delighted to see you.  But I am terribly sorry Gojō-sama, I would have to decline.”  Your thumb caresses his cold cheek.  “My dance card is full for the evening.”

Like a nymph, you slide away from him to accept the hand of a young man who was waiting for you.  And Gojō can only watch as you are being guided to the center of the floor.  

And you danced so beautifully.

The itch turned into a burn.  And Gojō had to sit the entire evening with such sensation nesting in his chest, almost clawing out into a form of aggression.

Whenever your dance partner spins you or their gloved hands wander closely to your bottom, Gojō has to quell the urge to pummel them to the ground.  He did not quite understand the urge to do so.  But after having the feeling for the rest of the night, he has come to terms with it.  Given up on trying to understand the impulse and just settled with the idea that every man who speaks with you is disrespecting him.

And you.

Oh, he is so cross with you.

How dare you fill in your dance card without reserving even a single dance for him.  Have you forgotten that you are betrothed to him?  Or do you just fancy the little game you are playing?  Acting as if he is not around.

The clock hand tells that the night was no longer young.  But you were still being twirled around in the middle of the dance hall.  It was your final dance for the evening.  And by the slight delay in your steps, he is well aware that you are exhausted from dancing for hours.

By the time the last note travels through the air, Gojō was already on his feet and marching towards you. 

You took no notice of course as you were smiling brightly at your dance partner as he bowed to place a kiss on your gloved hand.

But before his lips could touch you, Gojō Satoru unceremoniously grabs you by your midriff and carries you like a mannequin being set up for display.

Your startled squeal catches the attention of every person in the room and they watch as you wrap your arms around your fiancé’s neck in panic.

As the man carries you and disappears behind the doors to your garden, the chatter resumes but now, soft smiles are gracing the lips of every attendee.

They have been granted the front row seats to watch your game of push and pull with the strongest sorcerer.  Some of them have been watching ever since before you learned to walk.

It brought them great joy to see the man finally taking an action to claim you as his woman.

You, on the other hand, have your heart beating wildly on your chest.

Have you pushed too far?

Has your act of refusing his offer to dance been too much of a blow to his pride?

When Gojō places you down, you also pull your arms back to your sides.  You do not want to meet his eyes.  No, not at all.

“Sit.”

You still instinctively look up at him though.  “Huh?”

He gestures to the bench behind you.  “I said, sit.”

Immediately, you pull at your dress to smoothen the fabric as you sit down.  You did not appreciate how the act made you even smaller compared to his full height.

Your fingers twiddle with each other to release some of the budding nervousness in your chest.

“I-I am terribly sorry if I upset you, Gojō-sama.”  You stammer.

There you are.

A smirk finds itself on Gojō's lips.  You haven’t changed one bit.  You were only brave when there were other people around but you are the same shy little girl that he knew the moment you were alone.

He kneels before you to look you in the eye.  “Upset me? Whatever do you mean, my love?”  His tone was dark and dangerous despite him smiling playfully at you. 

You wanted to cry.

And his smile widens when your eyes turn glassy just as your lips wobble.

He just watched your suffering, willing yourself to hold back the tears.  Just as you thought you'd break, he clicks his tongue and digs through the poof of your gown to take off your sandals.

And as he expected, blisters covered your dainty feet.

“How were you dancing so beautifully with such discomfort.”  He says with his voice grim.

You can only watch him as his hands work on healing your wounds.

At times like this, you feel the safest.  As if nothing in the world could harm you.

And without much thinking, your hands cup his cheek.  And Gojō looks at you with still a tiny frown by his eyebrows.

“Are you upset with me?”  You ask with your voice barely above a whisper.

“That depends.  Are you done with your ruse?”  He cocks an eyebrow and you nod shyly.  “Then we’re good.”

“Will you dance with me now?” 

When you smile at him so softly, how can he say no?

But to your surprise, the man grabs you by your waist, lifts you up until your now healed feet are stepping on his shoes.

You hastily tried to get off but he tightens his hold on your waist.

“Stay.”

It was a simple command but you find yourself surrendering all that you are to him.

Your hands find themselves resting atop his shoulders and with the echoes of the music spilling to the dim garden, Gojō Satoru makes you feel as if you too were honored throughout heaven and earth, simply because he had you in his arms and he was swaying you to the faintest of melodies.

Where the Blue Roses Grow

[n3ptoonz]

hellooo it's okay if you choose not to write this!! but like im going thru it rn & was thinking how would the mk men be with someone who thrives off of being validated? i'm thinking raiden, kung lao, smoke, but anyone else you want too! kinda like some fluffy pick me up content :(

ofc i can do this, seems easy enough and i hope you're doing alright anon <3 if not at the moment, this feeling won't last forever!

mk1 hcs: how raiden, kung lao, smoke, and rain give praise/validation to their s/o

no warnings just fluff, more bullet points than usual since i'm doing four characters (and writing for them har har har) i use praise and validation interchangeably here if that's okay

hope this is good!

Raiden

raiden is almost always giving you praise and validation for just about anything

your skill, how well you cook, if you don't cook how well you help him out, to even how well your cleaning is

a swift "wow, you're amazing" "do i tell you i love you enough?" "how did you do that? impressive!" are in order whenever he deems fit (literally all the time)

don't let him find out you're down about something, because you're not leaving this house until he sees that smile

he holds you close more often and whispers cute things to you. some jokes, some things are more personal/targeted comments of validation

"you do know that i love you, right?" "you're the best thing to happen to me." "whatever has you down, we're in this together."

don't be surprised when you wake up one day and there's baskets full of freshly picked fruit on the dining table too. he hates to see you frown, so he does everything in his power to hear your laughter again

Kung Lao

as much as he loves receiving validation and being told he's the best at any given moment, he loves giving it too

for him it's usually on occasions where he really means every single word he's saying. like if you were to finally get a move you've been trying for like a week, he's your number one cheerleader

"i saw that out there, you're doing so well!" "shit, where'd you learn that from?! teach me!" "i am so proud of you"

if you're down, he's dropping everything to be by your side, if he can. whatever plagues your mind is an enemy of his now

he holds your hand(s) and is surprisingly very patient with you. well, is it really surprising when he professes his love for you every chance he gets?

"i'm here for you, love" "whenever you're ready, i'm always listening" "do i need to beat anybody's ass? just say the word."

he would also bring fruit (yes, he stole raiden's idea) and offer to train with you more for comfort or to tease you to take your mind off things (code word for endless flirting)

Smoke

when it comes to tomas, contrary to the popular belief of him being a smug thug that beats up old ladies, he's from shy boy city. population: him

on both ends he doesn't know how to react/isn't that good at giving praise. he'll either stumble over his words or do something else to show you he cares. it's really only when it comes to you cause he has to be confident around everybody else

he'll give an enthusiastic thumbs up from across the room, walk past you and whisper "great job!", or wait until it's just you two in the room so he can pepper your face with kisses (i need him so bad)

but hold up...you're feeling down? nah, that simply won't do. his shyness is gone and he's a little too ready to bring someone's head as a treasure if someone hurt you

"are you alright? i've got your back." "i would do anything for you" "i love you so much, don't forget that."

he would try his best efforts to spend more time with you and do more things around the house. hell, if he really had it his way you would never lift a finger ever again

Rain

rain is a man of few words. the way he operates is he doesn't really feel the need to keep saying the same thing over and over again, but that changed with you

now it wasn't a huge change, but he definitely had no opposition to letting you know when he noticed you, and he knows you'd do the same if not more

"i like what you did there, keep it up" "how did i get so lucky?" "you make me great at what i do"

he finds out you don't feel too hot? prepare to know what royalty feels like, because that's how he's going to treat you. technically you have a walking water-cooler at all times, so now you're definitely never doing anything yourself again

"i've got it taken care of, don't you worry about a thing" "your wish is my command." "if someone did something to you, they will regret it. i promise."

behind that calm and cool demeanor he was lowkey freaking out because he doesn't like seeing you down. he'd offer to make all types of natural medicines or potions, and when you tell him you just need him around, he's fine with putting work off until you feel better

a/n: i found out a few weeks ago charles from rdr and rain mk1 share the same va. i KNEW he sounded familiar mm mm mm

[the-kr8tor]

idk if you've done this already but

TTN! Reader got pregnant (fr this time!!) perhaps?

I think that would be silly, mostly because of Aunt Janet's reaction to Hobie teasing her in that last TTN oneshot

Yayy!! TTN dad! Hobie!! Thank you for requesting! 🫶

Pairing: Hobie Brown x fem! Reader/ Spider-Punk x fem! Reader

Tags: No use of Y/N, no specific physical description of the reader, TTN! Hobie, TTN! Reader. Billie and Ramona AU, Dad! Hobie au. Fluff

ʕ⁠·⁠ᴥ⁠·⁠ʔ

Hobie's hand hasn't left your thigh the entire car ride. The new sedan smells like pine and citrus when he practically drenched it in lysol before you got in it, telling you that the last owner probably smoked inside and the baby growing in you would smell it too. You believe him of course, even contributing your own perfume to the mix.

He's been an absolute angel the entire pregnancy, always careful and gentle with you. Of course you miss the days when he would play fight with you but you love him like this too, smooth around the edges but still have his bite that you fell for when you were just kids hanging out.

You stretch your lower back in your seat, swiveling from side to side, the simple movement gets Hobie's attention.

“You alright, Gromit?”

“I'm growing your little spawn, Hobie” you rub your stomach to alleviate the strain, thumb dancing along your maternity dress. You're only four months along the pregnancy but the baby bump is far larger than it's supposed to be. He jokes that you're carrying an army of spiders. “I feel like I'm carrying a full grown baby already.” you groan out.

He kneads your thigh, one hand on the steering wheel, sparing you a quick once over. “By the time Hobie Junior. Comes out he'll be ready for Uni.”

You grimace, craning your neck towards him. “We are not naming our baby Hobie Junior.” He opens his mouth but you beat him to it. “Or Punk Jr. Seriously, why are all your suggestions have Junior in them? What if it's a girl?”

“I thought you wanted to break gender norms? Our daughter could be named Junior.” His teasing smile makes you pout, you blame the hormones. Truthfully, he's been thinking about legit names for both since you two found out.

Huffing, you see him pull over to Janet's shop. “‘Junior Brown?’ No.”

Hobie smiles wider, taking his seatbelt off, he then proceeds to reach over to you, careful of your stomach. “Junior fits with anyone, so Junior it is.” he jokes.

He clicks off the seatbelt before he sneaks a quick kiss to your lips, turning your frown upside down immediately. Going back to his seat, his grin makes your stomach somersault and it's definitely not the baby doing flips.

“I hate you so much, Hobie.” You say with a grin and a chuckle.

“If you did, we wouldn't have Gromit Junior.” he pokes your protruding belly button, leaning on in the middle console of the car, his eyes softened. “D’you want me to call the doctor to book an appointment?” Always attuned to you and your worry, he asks oh so affectionately.

You swear you could cry on the spot, and again you blame the hormones. “Please,” you lean towards him, lips pursed. “This is why we have Gromit junior.”

Hobie chuckles, meeting you halfway. “You blamin’ me—?”

A knock from your side of the window startles you both. His senses would have warned him but it's impossible when your face is so close to him, add the fact that you were ready to smooch the living daylights out of him.

“Shit— oh it's Janet!” Rolling down your window, you give her a big smile. “Hi aunty! Long time no see.”

“Stop making kissy faces with each other and get out here!” She gestures for you to come out, you and Hobie give each other a look. Her cane clacks against the pavement as she gives space for you.

“Love, wait I'll help you down.” Hobie grabs your arm as you open the door.

“Am I that big already?” You look down at your stomach and he winces. “I'm sure I can get down on my own, Hobs.”

He lets go with a nervous chuckle. With your raging hormones pulling you from one emotion to another in a blink of an eye, he's been extra careful to not make you upset.

You reach down on your tiptoes, already finding it hard to see your feet. Janet looks on with wide eyes and mouth agape, she flicks her eyes frantically between your stomach and Hobie who's coming around the car to greet her.

“Hi aunty—.”

“You little shitter!” She exclaims, some pedestrians even turn their heads at the loud booming voice, probably reminding them of their own grandma. “You got her pregnant?! She just got here!”

Hobie has faced many villains but they've never made him this terrified before.

“She's been home for almost two years, Janet—” the older woman grabs Hobie by his shoulder, causing him to slouch down to her height. You watch on with your mouth tightly closed, stifling a laugh. “Ow!”

“Get inside the bloody store!”

You follow behind them, the store's bells ding as you close the door behind you. Hobie asks for your help with a simple look.

“Aunty, it's not all his fault.”

She stops in the middle of the store, letting Hobie go. He returns to your side, hiding behind you. “Oh trust me, I know, it takes two to tango. You look like you're six months in and you haven't thought to tell me?”

Hobie tugs your sleeve, having wordless conversation. You both know exactly why she's upset.

“I'm sorry aunty,” you rub at your bump, voice soft and face apologetic. “It was…unexpected and everything got so hectic that we only remembered today.” You elbow Hobie.

“Yes, we're sorry, aunty. We could name the baby after you if you want?”

You glare at him.

Janet sighs, leaning on her cane, she shakes her head. “You crazy kids. No need to name her after me, I've already got a grandkid named Janet and she's a little troublemaker. Congratulations, truly. I'm really happy for the both of you.”

Hobie half hugs you, hand placed casually on your stomach. Leaning on him, you both smile at Janet, relieved that she didn't hand your asses to you.

“I'm only four months in, not six, aunty.” You leave Hobie's side to hug her. She squeezes back, leaning away to look at your bump.

“Four? Are you sure because you might be carrying more than one?” She asks, eyes narrowed at your stomach. “Or are you just saying that so that I won't get upset that you didn't tell me for six whole months.”

Hobie pipes up, standing further away from Janet. “Scout's honour, aunty. Baby's only four months.”

She looks at you and you nod. “Mm-hmm, we're sure.”

“Huh?” She scratches her head. “You're having more than one, love. It's either that or you're carrying a big one, if that's it then I'm really sorry.” She lets go of a laugh and you look at Hobie like he kicked your dog.

You mouth a ‘big?!’ that makes Hobie stifle a laugh with a shrug.

“Do you guys have bets? I think it's a girl.”

“Bet you five pounds?” Hobie joins in, you place your hands on your hips, rolling your eyes.

[xxgoblin-dumplingxx]

ma’am, could we pretty please have some more gaslamp!au? 🥺🥺

"Wildflower," Jason said smirking, jumping over the railing, "don't tell me you're ready for bed?"

"Jason what-"

"Marry me?" he said pulling the ring out of his pocket and kneeling. His heart in his throat, "Run away with me. Tonight. We can be in New York before the morning-"

Lips collide with his and there's a soft warm body in his arms. Reflexively he pulls you closer and strokes your hair. He'd like to leave you breathless and reeling. To show you what's waiting for you- kisses that tempt. That promise. But when he can taste tears- it reminds him that he's still got to be gentle. He can teach you how to play those kinds of games later.

"Yes," you tell him, "But-"

"But nothing," he rumbled, claiming one of your left hand to press a kiss against your palm before siding the ring onto your finger. Relieved that the fit is perfect. "Whatever happened to you-" he broke off and shook his head, "it didn't change my feelings for you. I thought I lost you. And when I found you- Alive- and that man was dead my only regret was that you had to be the one to do it." He wiped the tears off your cheeks with his thumbs and kissed your forehead. "But. I won't lose any sleep over what you did. And no- even if you weren't still a virgin, it wouldn't have changed anything."

"That's just all I had left to offer and I just-"

Jason kissed you quiet quickly and smiled a little, "A razor wit, medical knowledge, and the ability to appreciate the beauty of literature is infinitely more important," he said. "And that's just a short list of things that are more important to me than your virginity."

He can feel you heating with embarrassment and he snuggled you closer. "We'll wake up the whole house if we don't leave soon," he murmured. You wouldn't. Half of them were in Bruce's study waiting and holding their breath he'd swear to it. The other half were keeping watch out a window or from a rooftop to see the lamps on the carriage race down the drive. Champagne would be had. And, if he knew Stephanie and Dick, bets would be made about the birthdate of your first child.

"How will we get out I mean- I can't climb down in a dress."

Jason grinned, "What kind of prince charming would I be if I didn't rescue my princess from her tower?" he teased.

"I'm not exactly a captive in rags," you snort, "Everyone's been very sweet-"

"Just put your arms around my neck and hold on," he chuckled. "Mind, don't look down-"

"It's four stories!"

"And I've been sneaking out the 5th since I was 10," he said grinning, "Just hold on. And please don't slap me. Or faint."

"I don't want to spend my wedding night with a broken neck," you squeak.

"Don't tell me my fearless, tree-climbing, horse-riding wildflower is afraid I'll drop her," he taunted, chucking you under the chin.

"I'm heavy," you remind.

"Hardly," Jason snorted. That he'd address later. He'd write sonnets about your breasts, hips, and belly. Spend hours lavishing kisses on every inch of you he could reach. But now- as he pulled you into his arms and got to his feet; leaving you no choice but to put your arms around his neck. As he savored your little yelp of surprise when he grabbed your bottom to support you against his side- all he wanted was to be well underway. To have you to himself. And for the rattle of the carriage to drown out the sound of all the rakish things he was going to do to you on the way to the wedding.

[wolven91]

A New Mattress

It was odd to have money. George was used to fighting for every penny then figuring out how to stretch that penny as far as it would go.

There was an old joke from George's home that two of his countrymen were fighting over a penny one day and the pair of them invented copper wire as a result. The shrewd business sense and unwillingness to pay over the odds or for something unneeded flooded through the veins of everyone that came from his area.

Granted, nowadays he didn't know how many of his countrymen yet lived. He suspected it was more than himself, he wasn't the only one rescued from his hometown, but he'd been shuffled and lost track of where they were.

Still, now that George was shockingly well paid for a job that wasn't particularly taxing or highly skilled, his bank account was looking healthier than it ever was before.

"Tell me again, why I have to get a new mattress? Mine *is* new. It's literally brand new, they 'printed' it for me when I bought my furniture." The human male asked.

"Because it's not about having a basic mattress, an Atlas one is important."

"Why?"

"Health reasons."

George blinked up at the tall, muscular adonis that was staring down at him, despite him being well over six feet tall.

The taurian woman who he was speaking with was originally one of the first of the aliens to talk to him like a normal person. Brellin was a hulk of a woman, with a set of horns atop her head that could gore someone quite viciously if she wanted to hurt them. Granted, Brellin was more of a lover than a fighter. They'd been talking about moving in together for the last four months, but she was adamant that she would never stay the night unless they got a specific mattress.

One that wasn't exactly the cheapest option. 

"So, your back hurts orrr...?" George probed. If it was that she had a bad back, he wouldn't mind getting the mattress, he had the money, he just abhorred wasting money. She had the body of a body builder, so it wouldn't be a surprise if she had hurt her back by over doing it in the gym.

"Let's say 'yeah' and drop it? I told you from the beginning. I need one of those if I'm staying over." One of her hands came over and caught his chin between a finger and thumb as she stepped forward and lifted his head gently, but without letting him have control.

"I don't mind just coming over for fun, but that's my rule. Get the mattress and we can have fun all night..." She promised, seemingly getting into the role of the seducer. It fine change now that the taurian knew the human was putty in her hands.

That evening, a new Atlas mattress was delivered and placed onto the oversized bed frame of George's home. He dutifully fit the sheets, having a mild fight with them, but ultimately winning.

As he waited for Brellin, he clambered up onto the bed and lay on it.

It didn't feel any different, besides the grooves cut into the mattress itself. It was made from an odd material and the grooves deliberately cut into the material gave the appearance of a diced mango still attached to the rind.

It didn't matter to him for long though, as his front door rang as Brellin arrived.

Several hours later, Brellin was storing up a storm and George could barely feel his legs but couldn't help the contented grin on his face. The taurians were apparently a race of incredible stamina and the fact that sex for them was a rare event, they were beyond the term 'eager'.

It took some mental gymnastics to get over the size difference. An eight-foot-tall body builder that wanted to use her tongue on every inch of him was certainly a change of pace, but George could make that sacrifice to keep her happy.

Still, her warm, finely furred body was incredible, and he wished to never have to stop her pressing it against him.

Unfortunately, he got his wish.

Unbeknownst to him, Brellin, was a hugger.

Completely asleep, satisfied as she was, the giant minotaur rolled over, the mattress barely shaking despite her huge size, and her arms reached out to find her lover. George woke immediately from his dozing when the power clawed hands grabbed his shoulder and bodily dragged him into her body as if he were no more than a pillow.

A heavy body fell atop him, and the air was forced from his lungs, it coming out in a whoosh of air.

Then she was still again, perfectly asleep and dead to the world.

George, however, was pressed firmly in the centre of her chest, her full body weight pressing down on him, crushing him. He couldn't get air, couldn't lift her, couldn't breathe!!

The only movement he could even do, was turn his head, thanks to the deforming nature of the mattress he was being pressed into.

Air!

Sweet, cool air weaved its way between the grooves of the mattress beneath him and the entrapped man sucked it in greedily.

After a few, the man reevaluated his situation.

He was currently trapped beneath his lover. She was beyond strong, far too heavy to move, and it looked as though she was going to be staying still for the foreseeable future. The mattress beneath him had deformed enough that he wasn't being crushed and allowed oxygen to reach him despite what should have been a crushing weight.

Thank god Brellin told him to get this thing before they had actually fallen asleep together...

After a few minutes, the human came to the conclusion that this wasn't the *worst* situation in the world. His view, limited as it was, was incredible. His world for the time being was limited to just Brellin and he could feel her almost covering every square inch of him.

He was 'stuck' here until at least morning, so the young man settled in, enjoyed what he could and rapidly fell asleep listening to the massive heartbeat and steady lungs of his lover.

[aragaki]

More Milo/Darlin' HCs

I wrote about Milo and Darlin' before here and here and am doing it again cause I love 'em

Tank was Milo's nickname for them when they were teenagers. It was something special just between them, a precious thing that only they shared. It stayed that way for a long time until Milo slipped up and called them Tank in front of David and Asher. After that it just stuck, much to Milo's annoyance.

Milo and Tank are the muscle of the Shaw Pack. Yes, Ash and David are stronger than they are but if there's a situation that calls for two wolves that are always ready to throw down, Milo and Tank are on deck.

When Quinn was sending vampires after Tank they really got to show what they can do when paired up. Vampire fights are vicious on their own but having two short tempered wolves desperate to protect each other? It's messy and brutal.

And Milo is not above giving Tank shit for the stunts they pull while fighting because seriously, they're a wolf not an acrobat! Four paws in the ground if you don't mind!

Tank has been asked if they're working the security gigs again since they show up at so many of Milo's jobs but they deny it. Milo is just waiting for them to give in and officially get back to work for David. Tank is a protector, they like physical work, they look intimidating (if you don't know them), working security is basically a perfect fit. But he respects their hesitance and tells them they don't have to do anything they're not interested in.

The summer solstice sucks for all of the wolves but it always hits Tank especially hard. They feel more sick than the other wolves and the fact that they're physically weak messes with their emotions. So Milo preps even harder for the summer solstice when he and Tank get together.

He stocks their fridge up with foods that they like, he'll watch whatever shows or movies they want, or he'll just spend the day cuddling in bed with them. He actually finds having someone to look after makes the general awfulness of the solstice easier to manage though he still hates it.

Tank has absolutely convinced Milo to spend the entire night shifted with them out in the forest. They argue that it's like camping, Milo argues that camping usually involves a tent and not being a wolf with no thumbs but doesn't actually put up too much resistance.

[goldenamaranthe-blog]

You're What?

Weiss: (walking with Blake through the city of Vacuo) .......

Blake: (ears twitching as she bites her thumb) ......

Weiss: .......

Blake: .......

Weiss: .......Well, as riveting as this gal pal date is, what's going on with you?

Blake: (blurts out in utter word vomit) I'm in heat!

Weiss: .....?

Blake: ........

Weiss: .....Not what I thought you were going to say.

Blake: I'm sorry for springing this on you, Weiss. But I needed to tell someone before I went insane. I haven't had a cycle in literal years, and I'm freaking out.

Weiss: Wait a minute... Have you not told Yang?

Blake: (ears droop as she holds her arm and shakes her head)

Weiss: Why not?

Blake: Because I'm nervous that she'll think I'm an animal, okay?

Weiss: Blake, Yang fell in love with you with all your animalistic qualities. I doubt this would make her love you any less.

Blake: (deadpans) Wow, thanks, Weiss.

Weiss: You're the one who jumped nearly six feet in the air when Zwei came to Beacon, you drool over fish - lest you forget the fish bowl from the noodle stand during the Vital Festival, and you've done the whole "if I fits, I sits" thing in that giant tea set box Yang got you.

Blake: I get it! I have a few extra feline tendencies to go with my ears and night vision.

Weiss: So, what's the big deal with having a heat cycle? Hold on! Does that mean you don't get regular periods?!

Blake: I get them about four times a year with the cycle.

Weiss: (crosses arms and grumbles) Lucky you.

Blake: (giggles slightly) Sorry. But it's difficult to be around Yang, I can smell her more intensely than normal....and I don't want to do something stupid that will drive her away.

Weiss: Please tell me you aren't going to start "presenting" yourself to her like a common stray.

Blake: Wow! Okay. Way to stereotype, Weiss.

Weiss: Well, excuse me if the one stereotype I've heard about Faunus going into heats turned out to be true! I'm going to question everything now! Next, you're going to tell me you purr!

Blake: (ears stick up straight as she chuckles awkwardly) Uhm... About that...

Weiss: You can purr!?!?!?!?!

Blake: I haven't purred since I was a child!

Weiss: But you can purr?!

Blake: I haven't felt safe enough to purr in years!!!

Weiss: It's probably the same thing that happened with your heat cycle! (Plasters her hand to her head in a fake swoon) I'm beside myself! My best friend, my confidant in Faunus rights, is only further instilling stereotypes that my younger self would be roling over to hear!

Blake: (shoulders Weiss into the road) Oh, shut it, Ice Queen!

Weiss: Hahahaha! Okay, but teasing aside, thank you for telling me. But I still think you should tell Yang so she doesn't just think you're avoiding her for however long this lasts.

Blake: (sighs and relaxes) I know. It's just difficult.

Weiss: (strings her arm through Blake’s) Well, let's focus on that later. Right now, let's see about finding you something that can help while you tell me all about this heat cycle. I'd like to be prepared for this in the future.

[otdiaftg]

The Raven King - Chapter Fourteen

Day: Friday, November 17th Time: 9:17 PM EST

Katelyn was waiting for Aaron when he stepped off the court. Maybe their embrace was what inspired Dan, because as soon as the Foxes were in the foyer she said, "We should celebrate." Nicky didn't even hesitate. "Only if there're drinks involved." The silence that followed was telling: Dan had said it, but she hadn't honestly expected the cousins to take her up on it. Fortunately for everyone, Renee was quick to rally. "We've got a couple bottles in our room. I think most of them are half-empty, but there should be enough to go around." Aaron looked at Renee like she'd grown three heads. "We don't socialize with you." "You do tonight," Matt said. "Tell Katelyn to come." "She's probably going out with her friends tonight," Aaron said. "We're not—" "The Vixens can come too," Dan said. When Allison shot her an incredulous look, Dan only shrugged. "What? I've been here for four years and I probably only know five of them by name. That's kind of sad, considering they've stuck by us this whole time. I don't know if we can fit the entire squad in our room, but..." "The basement study rooms are big enough," Renee suggested when Dan trailed off. "I doubt anyone will be down there on a Friday night, so we can make as much noise as we like. You'll invite them, won't you, Aaron?" "No," Aaron said, like he couldn't believe they were still talking about it. "Okay, seriously," Matt said. "What do you have against us? Andrew I sort of understand. You, I can't figure out. What have we ever done to you?" "Besides pay your bail," Nicky supplied helpfully. "Aaron, we're going." Aaron opened his mouth, closed it again, and fixed Nicky with an annoyed look. "You're explaining this to Andrew when he gets back." "Oh, hell no," Nicky said, and jerked a thumb at Neil. "I'mma leave that one to him. Thanks for taking one for the team, Neil. You're a real friend." Nicky grinned over at Neil, but his amusement didn't last. He seemed confused by whatever he saw on Neil's face and backpedaled with, "Don't worry, we'll send Renee along with you for backup. Last I checked Andrew only wins half their fights, so you might actually survive. Uh. Neil?"

Art used with permission by Rainbowd00dles. Thank you @rainbowd00dles

[purringcatz]

Important Update

I hate delivering bad news, but I'm afraid I have to. My laptop died yesterday. Yup... It's gone, and it was only three years old. How did it die?

Well, I was at a diner with my sibling and her emotional support dog, catching up and enjoying some delicious meatball subs. I had my laptop in my messenger bag because I was going to spend the night at my sibling's house, just like I usually do when we have "Sibling Day". A family walked in, I noticed they had like four kids with them, I didn't judge, just took note of it and continued to chat with my sibling.

When my sibling and I were waiting for the waitress to bring the bill so we could split it, one of the kids from the family started causing a ruckus. Something about wanting chocolate cake for dinner, I dunno. Anyways, the parents tried to get him to calm down, but nothing was working. After my sibling and I paid our bill, I grabbed my bag and we started heading out.

My sibling noticed that the little boy who was throwing a fit tossed his sister's stuffed rabbit on the floor. My sibling picked it up and handed it to the parents, as they were thanking my sibling, the little boy jumped out of his chair, still full-on tantrum, yanked my bag strap (which was on my shoulder) and quick as one could blink, and BANGED it against the table the family was eating at!

Yeah, everyone could hear the "CRACK" of my laptop inside my bag! My sibling and I went pale because everything was on there! ALL my fanfictions were on there! PLUS the ones that my sibling wrote and allowed me to post! (Don't worry, I have backup thumb-drives at my house), I also had very important log files for work on there too! (Luckily, a coworker has backup files they can send me).

The father of the family immediately took the little boy outside to reprimand him and the mother profusely apologized for what happened. I definitely appreciated their kindness, as did my sibling. They both even offered to give me a check to cover the cost of a new laptop after the father came back in with the son, but I politely declined. The little tantrum-ridden boy apologized, I had to step outside for a bit with my sibling's dog to settle my anxiety as my sibling used the restroom before heading to their house.

After we got to my sibling's place, they helped me properly throw out my completely damaged laptop and clean up the clothes that I had in the bag. My sibling then showed me a check, explaining that they were approached by the mother of the family after they used the restroom, insisting that I don't have to cover the full cost of a new laptop because of the son. I was so touched, so I put it in my purse.

So, yeah.... that's what happened. Our Sibling Day definitely was... an emotional rollercoaster to say the least. I was able to get some sleep after the both of us watched a BUNCH of Ghost Adventures on Discovery Plus.

My sibling will be helping me find a new laptop to buy, so for today, this update is coming from my smartphone, which was in my purse during the whole "situation". Hopefully, the thumb-drives will work with my new laptop after I purchase it and get it set up... wish me luck my friends!

Take care, stay safe, stay comfortable... and be kind! Byeee!

[rainofthetwilight]

-20 asks for Fic Writers-

hey!! I was tagged by @basicallyjaywalker to do this tag game, so ty for the tag rook!! :D

for tags, hmm... @taddymason @lightning-chicken @toastingpencils37 @lavful @weekend-whip and any fic writer that wants to do this!!

-

1.How many works do you have on AO3?

4 of them!

2. What's your total AO3 wordcount?

23,088 as of now :D

3. What fandom(s) do you write for?

so far, only ninjago, but I might write for another fandom at some point? not sure but it's pretty much only ninjago that I write for

4. What are your top five fics by kudos?

I only have four of em on AO3 (and one on here), but here we go:

The one I've known since I was I was only just a kid at 85 kudos

I'm not sick, I swear at 61 kudos

As the years pass by (the old version) at 23 kudos

Thank you for being a friend at 18 kudos

5. Do you respond to comments?

YES. I always get a bit too excited when I see them and I literally cherish every single one, so even if it's just a keysmash I always respond <33

6. What is the fic you wrote with the angiest ending?

with almost all of my fics ending on a fairly happy note so far, The one I've known since I was only just a kid easily sticks out like a sore thumb with it's ending lmao

7. What is the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

I think it'd def be I'm not sick, I swear! it's basically the only actual fluff fic w/o angst I've published so far lmao

8. Do you get hate on fics?

I hope I never will, but I mean- there was that one comment on my old version of atypb where this person complained about the wait and how they've been waiting 'a year' so 💀I don't know if that counts as hate but it's annoying af

9. Do you write smut? If so, what kind?

nope, nope, nope 🤺

10. Do you write crossovers? What's the craziest one you've written?

I don't! I'm not sure if I'm open to it, tho

11. Have you ever had a fic stolen?

thankfully no I haven't, and I really do hope not

12. What's the longest time you've spent working on a fic? And what's the shortest?

the longest one would definitely be the old version of atypb (the new ver which I hope to release soon will beat that tho I think), and the shortest would be I'm not sick, I swear! I literally wrote that fic in like almost 2 hrs or smth while I was struck with the cold myself lmao

13. Have you ever co-written a fic?

nope! I do feel up to it tho tbh

14. What's your all time favourite ship? From all the fandoms?

...do I really have to choose? like rook said, this is an awful question for a multishipper lmao

since I can't decide, I think they'd be raincloud, lost and jaya!

15. What's a wip you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

that one lostshipping fic I wrote back in november or smth and never got back to it, I so badly wanna finish it but I can't :')) (although now that finals are done, I could try getting back to it)

16. What are your writing strengths?

shoot, uhhh Idk?? I think it's when it comes to describing smth I guess (so description basically)

17. What are your writing weaknessess?

honestly, I think it'd be dialogue, I don't know why I struggle with it often :') I am trying to get better tho!

edit: and while I haven't written any so far, I think fight scenes is also a weakness for me :') (well technically I did in the old version of atypb, but lets- lets just ignore that)

18. Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

*smacks google translate* this bad boy can fit so much translation in it (unless it's arabic w/ it being my language n all..arabic fus7a, however-)

19. First fandom you wrote for?

ninjago, obviously 😎

20. Favourite fic you've ever written?

I think it'd be definitely The one I've known since I was only just a kid!

-

[angy-mouse]

Puck Bunny Part 3

5.7k, no smut but definite M-rated banter and important plot (unless you're just here for the foursomes in which case you can skip this chapter ig but its pretty integral for the finale)

&lt;previous next>

do you wanna go on a date?

Read 5 Minutes Ago

You stared at the message, sent directly instead of through the group chat. As if that wasn't weird enough, you'd just gone on a date (with heavy air quotes) with the three of them and you had yet to get your panties back, thank you very much. You started drifting down memory lane and forced yourself to snap out of it. This was not lecture appropriate thinking.

You get another text.

with me, idk if that was obvious lol. sap + sam are stuck running drills all afternoon bc they suck

Okay, so not a group thing. That was good, at least. You might be able to walk after all. Except…

Honestly, you don't feel like sex. Not even mind-blowing, four-orgasms-in-a-row, written-by-a-woman sex. You were tired, and still sore, and really craving something fruity but also sweet? Maybe a chocolate orange. Point being you did not feel sexy and imagining a naked man only stirred thoughts of needing to buy lotion.

i was thinking shopping and dinner - my treat ofc - but whatever you want is cool too x

Fuck, you do need a sweater. Damn changing seasons making your sundress collection obsolete. 

You flipped your phone over and closed your eyes, taking a deep breath and rolling your shoulders back. Fuck the rest of the lecture hall, you were aceing this class anyway and you needed to check in.

Do you want to see Punz today?

You didn't even have to think about it. Of course you did, you wanted to see all three of them and maybe shove your face in their perfectly perky pecs, but so far seeing them entailed sex, which you were not up for. You didn't think for a second that Punz wouldn't accept a no, but you were 50/50 on whether you would cave at the first touch just to experience that intimacy.

Call yourself a slut, but it was kinda hard to deny a man who acted like you were a literal goddess. 

Next question: do you want to go on a date today?

As long as it was a date-date and not their last idea of a date, that would actually be nice. You were past the awkward small talk stage with Punz, so no fumbling or awkward silences should happen. Plus you already knew he would compliment you to the high heavens, which certainly couldn't hurt your mood.

So what were you waiting for?

You thought, but you couldn't find an answer. A handsome, fit guy who treated you amazing and was great in bed wanted to take you shopping and treat you to dinner. You'd have to be a fucking idiot not to.

You flipped your phone back over and found another text.

no pressure ofc, but id be a fucking idiot not to try spending time with you without the peanut gallery

You snorted, thumbs gliding over the screen to save him from his nerves. Even if he was cute when he rambled.

tbh shopping and dinner sounds exactly what I need rn

A beat where you thought too much and got lost for just a moment. You bit the bullet, putting a heart on the end and hitting send. Then, as an afterthought:

should I change?

what are you wearing?

For a moment you considered telling him you forgot about a lecture you can't miss, and you actually can't go and you're so sorry but maybe next time-

omg wait not like THAT

i just mean last two times i saw you you were wearing a cute asf dress and then that nice shirt with big sleeves and the black skirt so as far as im concerned anything you wear is perfect

He's talking about your lantern sleeve blouse. Something about the way he fumbles, not knowing anything about what things are called and only knowing that he liked them enough to remember makes you just melt.

oh lol well thank you. Did you wanna meet somewhere or…

The response is instant.

ill come pick you up! whens your last class get out?

You tell him and get a thumbs up and heart emoji pairing, then a gif of snoopy doing his happy dance that makes you laugh under your breath.

"Stop sexting in class,"

You flinch and clutch your phone to your chest before recognition kicks in and you glare at Niki. "I'm not sexting," you hiss. "Punz is picking me up for a date." She rolls her eyes. "An actual date." You didn't know why you needed her to be happy for you so badly. Maybe with both your long term best friend and slightly less long term boyfriend both kicked out of your life, you were just craving companionship. It would certainly explain your current disaster of a dating life. 

"Okay," she says but it doesn't sound like she means it. "Just so you know, I only have one romcom binge weekend in me a year, so if this harem breaks your heart, too, you're on your own." 

"I appreciated that, you know." She blinks like she wasn't expecting anything less than snark, but you meant it. You came into your dorm with eyes so full of tears you didn't even realize she was there until she was coaxing you into your PJs and shoving a carton of Ben & Jerry's into your lap. Suddenly your mysterious roommate you only saw once in a blue moon when your schedules rarely overlapped was the shoulder you were crying on, voice ringing through your ears promising you were still the baddest bitch and he was the loser here.

"It's no big deal," she finally decided. "You need to learn people don't deserve praise for not treating you like crap." 

You didn't have a comeback for that, so you finished class in silence.

"Do I get to meet this one, too?"

You can't fight your smile. "You want to?"

"Gotta make sure you're not dropping your standards. Again." 

"I changed my mind: fuck off." She curled her hands into a heart with a grin before you turned away, hearing her chase after you. 'Chase' very loosely translated to 'took four quick steps to easily catch up because she's a lot fitter than you.' Damn skinny people.

"If he just pulls up and honks, you are not getting in the car. Date ends there."

"Any particular reason?"

"A man who can't wait to get out of the car to greet you can't wait long enough for you to come."

You grinned over your shoulder as you walked into the afternoon sun. "Oh, believe me: not a concern."

"Ew,"

"You started it."

"And I'm finishing it." 

Tires screeching on pavement caught your attention, just in time to watch two students nearly get run over by a cherry red Challenger. You bit your cheek. "You don't think…" 

The car came to a stop right in front of the stairs (only because it was physically incapable of climbing them, you were sure) showing off the VAL-U sticker on the back window.

"I do think," Niki said solemnly. A single honk came from the car. "Oh, fuck no-"

"Niki, please," you begged as you watched Punz climb out of the driver's seat in a crisp collared shirt, buttoned only enough to be appropriate in public. You practically melted as he gave you that sparkling grin, running a hand through his blond locks as he climbed the stairs two at a time to join you. 

"I had one rule for you-"

"Sorry," Punz breathed out, pressing a tender kiss to your cheek, close enough you could feel the faint heat rushing through his face. "I slammed my elbow on the horn trying to unplug my phone."

You'd be embarrassed by the loud snort that left you if you weren't so grateful it drowned out Niki's, "you're lucky, valley."

"You look beautiful." It was hard to believe when you'd just sounded like a literal pig. At least, it would be if he wasn't looking at you like you hung the stars, hands sliding back on either side of your waist until he was holding you gently against him. His lips ghosted over yours. "I missed you, bunny."

You missed him, too. “You saw me two days ago,” you say instead, but you let your hands link against the nape of his neck as he gives you a soft kiss. Something more than a peck, but nothing you were embarrassed to do in front of Niki. Something just right.

“And it was painful,” he announced, squeezing you tighter against him like he knew it would make you giggle into his neck. “Forty-eight hours with Big and Rich for company.”

“Are you ever going to run out of demeaning nicknames for them?”

“Haven’t yet. Hi-” It takes you a second to realize he’s talking to Niki over your head. “Friend?”

That one was directed at you, so you hum an affirmative and gently peel yourself away to run through introductions. Punz only lets you get out of one arm, the other moving to hang over your shoulders with a squeeze that clearly said ‘that one stays.’ “This is my roommate, Niki. Niki-”

“Punz,” she mused, offering her hand. “I know all about you.”

“Is this a shovel talk?”

“No. I don’t talk before shoveling.”

“Niki,” you beg, but Punz gives her a firm shake.

“Big fan of that,” he declared with a grin. “I’ve got a buddy with a truck, we should get you two in contact.”

She nodded solemnly. “Alright,” she directed at you, “you can go on the date.”

“Niki!”

She took your keys off your bag. “I’ll take your car back to the dorm. Don’t get pregnant.”

“NIKI!”

“Bye, Niki,” Punz cheered with a cackle, arm around your shoulders keeping you from chasing after her to commit some mild manslaughter. “Nice to meet you!”

“Don’t say, ‘nice to meet you,’ when she’s humiliating me.” You got a kiss pressed to the side of your head instead of an apology as he started down the steps, dragging you along with. The gentle pressure of his arm on your neck solidified your feeling like a yappy chihuahua being tugged along by the leash. It all felt a stark difference to the usual sultry air that followed you around these three. This actually felt like a… date. Not a sex on the nearest surface date, but a proper meet the parents soon date. 

You tried not to think about how scary that was.

Instead, you thanked Punz as he held open your door, your hand in his as he helped you climb in. You held in a giggle as he shut the door behind you and raced around the hood like he was worried you’d leave without him. “What are we shopping for,” he asked as he threw himself into his seat, but you were distracted.

“Why do you have a suicide knob?”

He grinned, wide and toothy, tongue poking out as he used the knob to wiggle the steering wheel. “Because it’s fun.”

You buckled your seatbelt. 

“Oh, come on,” he huffed, pulling out of the parking lot. “I’ve never gotten into so much as a fender bender with this car.”

“This car?”

“Don’t say it like that! I haven’t gotten into an accident since I was a teenager, is that better?” 

“Yeah, and what are you now, twenty?”

“Twenty-five,”

“Oh my god, you’re old.”

You regretted it as soon as you said it. You were so not at the stage where you could make fun of each other and especially not something as potentially sensitive as his age and why he's still at University-

"Well, you're a brat, so I thought we made a good pair." There's a beat where your mind races, but Punz reaches over to take your hand off your lap and cuts it short. "That was a joke. I know you're not a brat." 

"Only a little bit," you admit, and squeeze him back, a little promise that you didn't take it harshly. "If you were serious about taking me shopping, I could use some warm clothes for fall.”

The car pulled to a smooth stop at the light, and he fixed you with a look like you’ve accused him of secretly kicking puppies. “Dead serious. I love shopping.”

“You’re clearly very passionate about this.” 

He took his stare off you to pull through the light, bringing your joined hands up to his lips. “Well, I have an addictive personality, a great credit score, and excellent fashion sense.”

“Oh, yeah?”

“Hey, what’s with the doubt?!”

“Don’t get me wrong,” you promise, using your joined hands to gesture to his open shirt, “today’s pirate-with-no-inhibitions look is super sexy, and I’m a big fan of the pleather pants, but every other time I’ve seen you, you wore a hoodie and basketball shorts.”

“That’s not fair: you always see me after practice! I can't squeeze into these pants while I’m still sweaty.”

“Well, I’m very appreciative of your sacrifice.” You wait until he’s looking at you to pointedly eye up his thick thighs, practically seran-wrapped in black fabric. “Very appreciative.”

“Bunny’s secretly a pervert,” he accused, “God, I’m not a slab of meat.”

“Really?”

He finally broke, laughing so hard he hit the rumble strips and had to swerve back into the lane. “You’re such a little shit! You’re lucky it makes you lovable instead of annoying.”

“You three practically snap me in half every time I see you: I’m allowed some eye candy!”

“I’ll be your eye candy,” he promised, and flicked open another button on his shirt. “Boom.”

“Whoa, now,”

“Too hot?”

“I nearly creamed.”

“I hate you,” he wheezed, shoving the gearshift into park. “Get the fuck out of my car.”

“Rudeness!”

His hand snatched yours when you reached for the door. “Wait, I wasn’t serious!”

“I’m getting out!”

“No, wait for me!”

“I’m getting out, and I’m telling Sam you let me open my own door!”

“No, he’ll kill me!”

“Good!” Despite the snap, you can’t pry the smile off your face and you find yourself staying perfectly still in your seat as Punz races around the hood again. “Oh, Merci,” you chirped, taking his offered hand as you stepped out.

“De nada, my little bunny." 

His arm laid across your shoulders again like you were boyfriend-girlfriend on an average date. He even reached out to open the door for you as you walked into the mall. But you weren't boyfriend-girlfriend, you were a puck bunny brat. "Every time I think you're kinda sweet, you call me that." 

"It's a talent of mine: making an ass of myself. Where do you wanna look first?" 

“I usually go to Salvation Army.”

Punz started walking towards the Aeropostale, dragging you along with. “I’m offended you think I’d offer to take you shopping and take you to Salvation Army.” 

You started struggling, grabbing a fistful of his shirt to try and curb him. Your heels tried to find purchase on the tile, but he slid you across the floor like dragging a sled. “I’m a college student! And so are you, for that! I’m not letting you spend your food cash for the week on clothes for me- Jesus Christ, how are you this strong?!”

He stopped, but it had nothing to do with your attempts. He spun you in his arms as if you were nothing more than a doll to him, something he could carry with him and arrange however he wanted. The thought made you feel equal parts small and bratty, but his hands on your hips made you bite your tongue as he held you close. His eyes were stern, a slight tremble in his features betraying his nerves.

“Alright, I’m gonna tell you something, and I don’t want you to freak out.”

Oh, you were totally going to freak out.

“I didn’t want to say this so soon because it totally changes how people think of me, but you’re clearly going to fight me on this, so here it is.” He took a deep breath, eyes screwed shut in a wince. “I’m a trust fund kid. My parents are loaded.”

It didn’t click at first. Not until you blinked. “... oh my god?”

He nodded solemnly. “I know.”

It was a shock, the same way any new information about someone you knew was a shock: mild brain buffer as your mental file was updated. Other than that, though… You couldn’t seem to care. Other than, of course, another chance to mouth off. “Oh my god,” you performed, shaking his shoulders. “Eat the rich, Punz!”

“I’m not into butt stuff,”

“I hate you,” you lied, trying to push away. “I hate you and your gated mansion community-”

“I live in the frat house, it’s practically a homeless shelter.”

“You and your diamond studded underwear-”

“Where are you getting your information on rich people: Richie Rich?”

“You’re an old rich guy, too!” You gasped, clapping your hands on either of his cheeks. He gave a minor wince from the impact, but it was swept away just as quickly by rapt attention as you pressed your forehead to his. “Am I a sugar baby?” 

“Well, you haven’t actually let me buy you anything yet-”

“Wrong answer.”

He shook his head between your hands, essentially making you slap him repeatedly. “No, bunny, you’re not a sugar baby, not in the slightest. Now, can I buy you more clothes than you can ever wear?”

Your gaze narrowed, but it probably wasn’t as intimidating as you hoped when you had to cross your eyes to look at him. “You swear your wallet won’t feel it?”

“May lightning strike me down.”

It took a moment, but with not even a rumble of thunder, you supposed you had to believe him. “Alright,” you conceded, “but we’re going somewhere that actually carries my size.”

<3E>

“I’ve never been in a Torrid,” Punz admits to you as you walk in.

“Really? You don’t lurk in the lingerie section hunting for big women?”

“There’s a lingerie section?” He’s too excited at the prospect to entertain your sass, but evidently not too excited to take the pants you were looking at right out of your hands. “You’ll have to try everything on for me. Even though I’m adamantly opposed to anything that covers your legs.” 

You tried to take them back and he casually moved out of reach, adding a blazer to his haul. “Just because I’m built like an elephant seal doesn’t mean I’m actually insulated-”

“Hey-” You jump at the sudden appearance of a sales associate, a beautiful woman with an undercut and dangly earrings, and flush at the reminder that you were in public. She points an empty hanger at you sternly. “We don’t do self deprecation in here.” The hanger tip shifted over to Punz. “Are you not telling her how beautiful she is enough?”

You can feel your face turning purple as Punz claims, "I can't: I need to eat and sleep sometimes," and starts plucking one of everything off the racks without bothering to check sizes. 

"Wha- Punz! Stop that! I don't need-"

"What you need is to let me love you!"

Undercut woman has a giant grin as she turns to walk away. "I'll get a dressing room open for you. Name for the door?"

"I don't need-"

If Punz wasn't trying to smother you in twisted affection, you might've started to get pissed off at the way he interrupted you again. "Bunny!"

"You're gonna get a foot up your ass in a minute here!" 

"She don't bite," he insists, wrapping a thick arm around your neck to yank you against him. He starts pressing fat kisses to your hair, the kind where he just puckers his lips ridiculously and smacks them against you. The first few are gross. The next annoying. Then he starts cooing about she's just a sweet little thing and your attitude crumbles like a wall, entire body melting against him like a stray that's finally caving into affection. 

You can feel his lips curl into a wide grin against your head, but you can't make yourself rebuild that wall when he's nosing your hair away from your ear so he can whisper, "are we done being a brat, baby?" 

“...yeah,”

His finger crooked under your chin, gently lifting your lips to his for a soft kiss. “Yeah? My sweet girl’s gonna let me dress her up?” 

My girl.

You stole another kiss, dropping one on Punz’s jaw as you pulled away for good measure. “At least grab the right size, you big lug.” 

You may as well have promised him a puppy. His grin stretched wide across his face, bottom lip pulled between his teeth before he ducked his head, hiding from you. He nuzzled into your neck, puckering his lips so they just barely grazed your jugular, feeling your pulse race. “Yay,” he murmured, arm around your shoulders sliding down your back until he could grip your soft waist. “Because as hot as you look in this dress, I don’t approve of how the leggings hide away our tummy.”

“You mean my tummy?”

“I’m filing for joint custody. You don’t appreciate her enough.”

“I appreciate her just fine. It- fuck me, now I’m doing it! Give me something to put on!” 

He cackled, tugging your collar aside to check the tag and leaving you to rifle through the racks. “I’m gonna build you some outfits,” he promised, flicking through some camisoles to add to his armful. “And I wanna see every single one.” 

“I thought you wanted to make it to dinner at some point.” 

He found one in your size and handed you the completed stack. “Then you’d better run that cute ass into a stall for me. Ooh, swimsuit sale!” 

You huffed and rolled your eyes all the way to the back of the store and all the way into the dressing room until the door was shut behind you. You only allowed yourself the time it took to strip and redress to think about how warm you felt inside. How nice it felt to have someone who wanted to drape you in silks and pouted when you made him settle for overpriced plus-size fashion. Someone who was ready to watch you try on one of everything, knowing full well how long it’d take.

You settled the blazer over your shoulders and turned to the mirror, lips pressing together.

By no means were you ashamed of your body… but you leaned more towards ‘screw the world I don’t owe it to you to fit your beauty standards’ and less towards ‘I’m fat and fuckable.’ 

The flared pants sat just too low to tuck away your muffin top. No matter how you tugged on the camisole, it couldn’t cover that inch of skin- unless you wanted to walk around with your bra out.

“Shoppin’ for my baby!” Your gaze snapped to the door, hearing the rhythmic shuffle of feet. “Shoppin’ for my bunny!” You slapped a hand over your mouth to keep from laughing- if he heard you, he might stop singing. “Shop ‘til you drop! Bop-bop-bop! Gonna get a crop- top! Yeah, I could’a been a rapper. Fuckin’ missed my calling.”

“You so did,” you called out, threading the buttons on your blazer as you bumped the door open. “What would your rapper name be?”

“Lil’ Pucky,” he called back without hesitation as he turned. Blood rushed through your ears as his jaw dropped open, eyes cruising up and down your form so intensely you worried you’d forgotten to put clothes on at all. “Hello, bunny.”

“Hi,” you giggled. You gave a twirl and laughed when a swoon of “oh, ass,” passed his lips. “You like?”

“I love.” He groped for your waist, pulling you into his chest until you could feel his heartbeat through your right tit. “I changed my mind: you can wear pants, but only these.”

“Oh, yeah?”

“Yup.”

“These are better than the leggings?”

“Leggings are too tight. Anything that delays me from getting in your guts for more than six seconds is going in the bonfire.” 

Your hand came down on his shoulder and he pretended it hurt, stumbling into one of the plush chairs. “That’s why you wanted to take me shopping! You figure if you buy me enough, you can get rid of everything you don’t like!”

He couldn’t even pretend to feel guilty, a grin wider than a fucking canyon stretching across his face. “It’s gonna be short dresses and tight pants if I have my way.”

“And what makes you think you’ll get your way?”

He held out his hand, a silky two-piece bathing suit with a halter strap top and a skirt layered with frills dangling from his fingers. “Because I found this in your size-” his other hand revealed a mesh shopping bag half full, “and enough panties for Sam to steal as many as he wants.” 

You accepted the swimsuit to try on, but gave an apologetic smile. “I’m very picky about my underwear: I don’t want you to be upset if I don’t wear what you pick out for me, okay?”

“Don’t worry, I’m working off a reference.”

There’s two beats where you process his words before you’re beating him with the swimsuit. “You’re the one who ended up with my panties?!” 

Punz didn’t even move to block your hits, hand coming up to lay over his heart. “I pledge my allegiance every morning, first thing.” 

“Where did you hang them?!”

<3E>

“I can carry something, you know.”

“I’m going to pretend you didn’t say that.” Punz piled the bags all onto one arm as if he took your offer as a personal offense to his strength and very manhood, looping the other around your waist. “Taking a fine lady out and making her carry her own bags- who do you think I am?”

You’re getting used to his dramatics: you barely acknowledge him as a stall catches your eye. “Ooh, boba!”

His arm doesn’t budge around you, but it doesn’t keep you in place like you’ve experienced before. Your path shifts towards the drink shop and his elbow pulls straight for barely a second before he shifts right with you, letting you lead him wherever you desired. “That milky stuff with the gross balls?”

“Yes, but no.” There’s laminated menus on the tables so you pick one up and scan the flavors. “You’re thinking milk tea with tapioca pearls. I get fruity tea with popping pearls.”

“You’re really cute, but I don’t know what you’re saying.”

“I’m gonna blow your mind right now.” You slipped your card out of your purse as you walked up to the counter to make sure Punz knew you were buying this time. “Hi, can I get a large strawberry fruit tea with green apple pearls?” 

He barely gets out the total and asks for a name for the order before Punz slaps his card on the machine from the side. "'Punz': exactly how it sounds, but with a 'Z'."

"I was gonna pay for it, asshole!" The only response you get from him is his signature on the pad- which is nothing more than a colon and a 'P'. You stuck your tongue out right back, skipping out of reach to snatch up a straw from the pick-up counter. "You're gonna let your guard down sooner or later." 

"You make it sound like you're gonna kill me." You drag the straw across your throat. "Wow," he snorted, pecking the tip of your nose, "total savage." 

“I know. I’m totawy scawy.”

“Fwightening.” 

“You’re a dork,” you informed him with a huff of laughter, stabbing your drink as soon as it arrived. “Poison check,” you claimed, taking the first sip. You skewered a pearl for him before handing it over. “Alright, taste that thang.” 

You waited eagerly as the straw passed his soft lips, on the edge of your nonexistent seat as he took his first sip.

He shrugged. “Yeah, it’s alright.”

You rescued your drink before smacking his arm. “No taste!” 

“It’s about as good as fruit can get, but it still tastes like fruit. Give me a burger any day.” 

“I’ve never met such a dumb man,” you huffed, sipping for yourself.… Okay, so it had too much ice, but it was still delicious!

“Liar,” Punz accused as you started your walk again. “You’ve met Sapnap.”

You bumped into him with purpose. “Yeah, but it’s cute on him.”

“Ouch, you’re really wounding my pride there, bunny,” he drawled, making sure his sarcasm seeped through every word. “As if I could be jealous of Sappy.” 

You could feel your lips curling into an evil grin around your fat straw before the thought of what to say even formed. “I don’t know: he’s cute, and strong, and a gentleman, and he’s great with his tongue-”

“Alright, you’re pushing it!” A cry left your lips as he snatched your cheek, pinching only hard enough to pull it around a bit. “Talking about another freaking guy this much, even if he is my teammate-” 

“Leggo uh meee!”

He gave another yank before releasing you with a huff. “Such a little brat…”

His tone changed. It was slight, but there was a definite change- enough to make you stop and backtrack. Did you push too far? Was he actually insecure and being compared to Sapnap was a jab in the gut? Or maybe he was just getting sick of your attitude when he was treating you like a princess. 

“I’m sorry.” Punz let out a small noise from the back of his throat that you took as prompting to continue. “I don’t know why I even said that, but I’ll try not to be such a- such a brat.”

“It’s okay,”

“It’s not-”

“Why are you upset?” He turned to look at you properly, pulling you to a stop once he saw your expression. 

You huffed, frustrated that you had to say it out loud, but more frustrated at yourself. “Because you’re wonderful to me-” His hand came up to your cheek, warm and soft, and suddenly your eyes were clouding up. “And you don’t deserve all the snapping I do-” There’s a lump growing in your throat. “And I don’t even know why I say that kind of shit because I’m having a great time with you-”

“Oh, honey bunny.” You caught a glimpse of his handsome face twisted into concern before he was pulling you into a nook for some semblance of privacy, setting your bags on the floor before hauling you tight against his chest. “Oh, you’ve really worked yourself up over this, huh?” You know it’s not really a question, but you find you’re nodding into his shoulder anyway. You don’t even feel like you’re crying: there are tears streaming out of your eyes, but that’s it. Almost like someone’s left the faucet on and forgot about it. 

Punz’s lips press firmly against your head, hands rubbing circles against the tense muscles in your back, like he was trying to find the button that would make it all better. “Can I tell you something, bunny?” His lips briefly twitch into a tiny smile when you nod mindlessly against his shirt. “I know you’re having a good time. And I am, too. And I know you just like chatting shit. Makes you feel strong, huh? Like you’re big and in charge?” You didn’t even realize it before he put it into words, but he was exactly right, earning another nod. “And you wanna know something else?

“I like chatting shit, too.” You pull back as you realize the tears have stopped, and he only lets you go a few inches before he’s holding you still with warm hands on your waist. “The boys told me all about your drive before our movie night. You know how Sammy threw his little tantrum over your seatbelt?” His choice of words pulls a throaty laugh from you that makes him grin. “We all want different things when we’re with you, bunny. Sam wants to make sure you’re taken care of, so when you brat, he’s gonna nod and take it until you run out of steam and ask him nicely, then he’ll give you anything you want.

“But I kinda like to fight, bunny. Nothing mean, but when you poke me, I wanna poke back. I think it’s fun just like you do, and I think we could have a good time pushing each other to the limit to see who gives.” His lips twitched. “Now, Sappy: I think that boy just wants to die under a big woman, so you gotta watch out for him, make sure he’s still breathing when you sit on him-” 

You try to smother your laughter because this is serious, but then you’re imagining a headline that says, ‘Local Man Attempts Suicide By Pussy,’ and you break into manic giggles that send you right back into Punz’s chest as he laughs with you. His hand rubbed up and down your back, slow and soft, melting your form against his. 

You turned your head once the giggles calmed down, taking a deep breath of his cologne while you listened to his heart. “I still feel bad,” you admitted. “Like I pushed too far.”

“I promise you didn’t, baby.” The speed of his answer makes you melt just a bit more. “I get being worried about it, though, because I do, too…” He hummed as he thought. “Sappy said you guys decided on a safe word?”

You nodded against him. “Pineapple,”

“Pineapple. Okay, so how about we both promise that if the other crosses a line, we say ‘pineapple.’ Then we know it’s an actual ‘no’ and not just more playing. How’s that sound?” You give another nod that he returns with a squeeze. “You want me to take you home, baby?” You’re shaking your head without a second thought, pressing yourself deeper against him. You get another squeeze in response, a silent, ‘I won’t leave you.’ “You wanna get some dinner?”

You forced yourself to pull away, his fingertips trailing over your body as long as they can until they hook onto yours. You beamed at him. “That sounds really nice, old man.”

Punz laughed. “Let’s go, then, brat.”

[sombrashe]

The Hospitable | Part 3 | Day One

content non-binary oc (they/them pronouns), teenager oc, extensive death talking, canon familial death, explaining death to a child, survivor guilt, child oc

Stepping over my discarded bags I make my way to the bed where Marina now lies facing the ceiling.

"What's up, buttercup?"

"I miss Mommy."

"I do too."

"When is she coming?"

"She's not, it's just you and me now."

"Why?"

"Do you remember Nana Bela? How when everything started to get really cold and Nana got really sick? Do you remember what your Daddy told you?"

"Nana Bela is in heaven... is Mommy and Daddy there?"

"Yes, Mommy, Daddy, Ainsley, Maggie, Dom, everyone. They're all in heaven now. This train is the reason we're not in heaven with them."

Her sudden tears shatter my heart completely, I pick up the pieces enough to comfort her. Sitting down I wait until she crawls in my lap to wrap her in my arms. The hug is awkward with the amount of layers we have on but I don't stop until she pulls away. Looking up at me with damp cheeks I cup her face and wipe those tears away with my thumbs. I tap my forehead against hers.

"I know this is hard to understand and it's going to be hard, but I'm going to need you to listen to me no matter what now, okay? Just like how you listened to Mommy and Daddy."

She gives a simple nod and I know she isn't going to follow the rules. She's still just a baby. So I make a vow to myself. I will never get mad at her for anything simple again, no more older sibling complaints. I'm the adult now and I need to act like one. Smoothing her hair I stand and make my way back to the bags littering the floor. Picking them up one by one I place them in a row on the left side of the bed. My suitcase stays propped against the end of the bed waiting to be unpacked. Making sure to keep the right side clear I bring Marina to my side to assist me in unpacking. Starting with my original bad I open it to see it overflowing, a few items slip out and onto the bed and floor. Leaning down I pick up Shirley Temple and place her at the top of the bed. Going through the items I place everything in rows to get a real look at exactly what I'm left with. Ten pairs of socks and underwear, two pairs of full-body thermal underwear, an extra pair of jeans and a few pairs of plain oversized shirts, three brand new sudoku puzzle books, the entire Thirst series, a case full of mechanical pencils, pens, led and a polymer eraser. Moving a step over I let Marina pull everything out of her bag and match what she could. Fourteen pairs of socks, ten pairs of underwear, four pairs of thermal underwear, some shirts and pants, a cute sundress, three pairs of matching pajamas, two coloring books with plenty of crayons and pencils, and a few Little Critter books mixed in with some Berenstain Bears. She notices, trapped at the very bottom, a copy of The Little Mermaid and Moana.

"Okay, let's put some of this away, yeah? Make some more room so we can open the biiiig suitcase."

Marina grins and starts gathering socks in her arms with most of them slipping through and landing on the ground. Running she stands patiently. While her back is turned I gather the fallen items and open one of the top drawers. She simply chucks everything in there without care for order. Smiling I shake my head.

"Do you want the left or right drawer?"

She thinks about it deeply, her little hand resting on her hip mimicking our Mom's thinking pose. Finally, she taps her finger against her chin much like our Father.

"Right! Oh, please."

Taking a moment I slide the unopened drawer open and split our socks correctly between the drawers. Luckily Mom folded the pairs within one another so I don't have to worry about organizing them to fit. Walking over to the bed I explain to her to only grab her own underwear and place them neatly within her drawer. She does good and places them in order of days; Monday gets pink, Tuesday gets green, Wednesday gets purple, Thursday gets black and white cats, Friday gets yellow flowers, Saturday gets stripes and Sunday gets polkadot. Noticing, I follow suit, matching colors with one another. Making sure the drawers are nice and snug I pull open the one directly below. Using this one for my thermals I make sure she gets the third and last drawer for her own. Once the drawers have your sparse amount of clothes I close them tightly. Walking back to the bed I remove my parents' bags from the bed and set them gently on top of the desk to be opened later when Marina was sleeping. Gathering our collective book collection I put them on the small shelf built into the wall a few feet above the desk. Coloring books go in the top drawer and sudoku goes in the bottom drawer. Sighing I take a look around and take in just how little items we have. Keeping our folded clothes on top of the bed I lug the suitcase onto the bed with a deep huff. Jeez Louise. Before Marina can unzip the case I tell her we have to go through the front pockets first. She greedily rips open the top one and starts pulling things out without a care in the world.

"Marina, stop. STOP."

I don't mean to shout, but items are ending up on the floor and tears start as I pick them up. She shrinks into herself with a pout as I use the heel of my palm to remove the wet droplets from my bottom lashes. I give her a gentle forehead kiss and apologize, explaining that we really need everything to be organized or else we'll lose it. Smoothing her hair I hand her the pack of toothbrushes and toothpaste to run into the bathroom. A small room with a shower, toilet, and sink crammed into it. I don't see what she does with them but I do hear a drawer slide open and then snap closed. She runs back and holds out her pudgy hands wiggling her fingers to get more items. Finishing pulling everything out of the pockets I take inventory. A six-pack of toothbrushes and a three-pack of toothpaste, a full-sized Head and Shoulders shampoo with matching conditioner, a full-sized Aveeno baby wash, two full-sized CeraVe face washes, and a brand new pink waterpik. Handing the items off one by one Marina places them within the bathroom meticulously. When she returns she gives me a thumbs up and crawls onto the bed once more. I finally let her open the suitcase and we're met with loads of stuff. Where undergarments would normally be kept instead it's packed to the brim with velvet-wrapped hangers. Removing them all I take a moment to hang up the clothes already folded and waiting. Coming back from the closet I see Marina has already started to unpack. She mimics me and attempts to slip the clothes from the case onto the hangers but struggles as the velvet trips her up.

"Sissy."

She's starting to pout again and I make a deal with her. She hands me the clothes and I'll hang them up for her. She hands me ten shirts and five pairs of jeans all much too small for me and I wonder how Mom knew to pack stuff for Marina. Ignoring the nagging in my chest I robotically hang up her clothes. Her sundress and nice flower girl dress from Martha's wedding are hung up next. Next, she hands me two pairs of shoes, a pair of sneakers I've never seen before, and her glossy black flats. Placing them on the floor in the closet I walk back to her holding up our Mom's fancy event dress, black velvet that drapes over the body holding the wearer's shape. Biting the tip of my tongue I quickly hang it up and shove it to the middle of the closet, a small bit of wood hiding it from view. Next are all my clothes. Nearly my entire wardrobe is rolled and shoved into the bag, vacuum sealed bags were used to make room and I take a moment to open them as Marina struggles to follow suit. The first two are full of plain shirts and band tees, the next one is full of jeans, skirts, and shorts. At the bottom is a few extra plastic hangers that I use on my jeans while my skirts and shorts are shoved into my drawer alongside the few pairs of mismatched pajamas Mom shoved in. Finishing hanging everything up I shove the two pairs of sneakers, a pair of black heels, and a pair of basic flats into the closet. Any extra hangers are hung up and our now empty bags are placed on the closet shelf. Clicking the door closed I walk over and let myself fall face-first onto the bed. Marina follows suit and gives a dramatic sigh before patting me on the back. I smile to myself and look over at her, my cheek pressed against the mattress and I look her over. Finally, after a few minutes of silence, she peeks out to see me staring.

"I wanna walk around."

"Tomorrow, I promise. People are still finding their rooms. We'll get lost if we go out there now."

"But I'm hungry now."

She sighs and buries her head into the mattress again. Right, food. I nod and force myself off the bed. All the snacks must have been eaten or else Mom would have made sure a few were packed. No wait. I move myself over to the desk and pull Mom's tote closer to me and don't even have to rummage before a few snacks peek their way up at me. Pulling them out I realize half the bag is food. A half bag of family-sized Cheetos, unopened movie theater-sized bags of Nerds, Twizzlers, and Reece's, and a box of chocolate chip protein bars. Ripping open the box I grab three out and in the other hand, I grab up the Cheeto bag. Walking back to the bed I lay everything out. Opening a protein bar I place it in Marina's hand who happily starts munching away. Walking into the bathroom I feel relieved that there is already an unopened pack of toilet paper sitting wedged between the toilet and sink. Ripping the plastic open I stack remove a roll, put it on the holder, and rip off a few pieces to use as napkins. Before leaving I make a mental note of where Marina places all our toiletries and am pleasantly surprised at how well organized she is. Exiting the bathroom I hand over the paper and watch as she gently folds it before continuing to eat. Opening the second protein bar I have to remind her to eat slowly or else she'll get an upset tummy. Taking the third one for myself I finally force myself to look out the window and upon the darkening landscape. Nibbling on the bar I click on my phone. 87%. 6:27 pm. It's been six hours already? That doesn't feel right, but then again I have no clue what time I arrived. Chewing on my bottom lip I ignore the rest of my bar and lay it on one of the built-in nightstands adorning either side of the bed. Walking over to the TV I decide to plug it in and with Marina's input (even though I should have known) I put in The Little Mermaid. Crawling onto the bed I let her crawl into my arms as she happily crunches on cheesy styrofoam. We watch the movie on repeat until the train eventually starts moving and we soon fall asleep to the slight rocking.