#haha he can BEAM me over the head any day

[lilydoesdrawsometimes]

Narrator #10? Devin! @thenamesmobu's Narrator

Devin things: Here!

I've wanted to draw this guy for a while now - I think I will revisit him and draw just a straight up thing of him but I kind of just started drawing and did the sketch for this and was like "mmm cool hand thing whatever"

Anyways here he is about to kick some ass B)

[suiana]

"Rewind?"

As a patient in a hospital, you swear that you're living the same day over and over. However, your doctor assures you that you're simply hallucinating.

Warnings: manipulation, obsession, classic yandere stuff idk, gn reader

[Day 2]

A warm breeze kisses your skin gently, the smell of freshly cut flowers as well as sanitized equipment invades your senses as you rub your eyes and let out a soft yawn.

Waking up in the same hospital bed, you smile as the thought of getting better fills your thoughts. Yes! A brand new day! You can already feel your body getting better and better!

"I can't wait to finally leave this place..."

You mutter to yourself, smiling softly as a soft knock comes from outside. You feel your heart race as the sigh of someone familiar enters, a small paper bag of baked goodies in one hand as he smiles down at you kindly.

"Doctor!"

"Well hello to you too, y/n."

You greet cheerfully, beaming at the handsome doctor who walks over to you with a smile who greets you back with a soft smile. You feel your heart warm slightly at him, butterflies in your tummy as he comes close to you.

Doctor Anthony Eurwen.

That's who he was. A genius young man who became a doctor at the age of 24. He was highly respected in the medical field, having achieved so much at his young age and right now, he's your doctor. Well, he has been for quite some time now. You suppose 3 months now?

He takes care of you personally and you wouldn't have it any other way. Why would you? A genius doctor caring for you one on one! You would have to be a fool to pass up this opportunity! Not to mention the fact that he was quite dashing...

Neat black hair along with brown eyes that shined golden under the sun, his facial features were no joke.

You were sure he had both girls and guys chasing after him. I mean, he was very handsome, intelligent, and had a nice personality. What isn't there to love about him?

...And that's why you developed a small crush on him.

Not like you'd ever confess though! You knew you'd be rejected in an instant, so there was really no point in trying in the first place. Plus, you knew that it was against ethics for a doctor to date a patient they're caring for. If you wanted to try your luck you'd have to wait until you were well enough to go home.

"y/n? You're spacing out, are you okay?"

You snap out of your thoughts, blinking repeatedly as your doctor presses a hand against your forehead in a worry. You immediately shake your head, laughing awkwardly as you feel your cheeks flush a dark hue.

"Ha-ha... Doctor I'm fine! Just... daydreaming is all!"

You choke out, smiling awkwardly at your doctor who purses his lips, clearly unconvinced by your words.

"Really? Hm... If you say so."

Doctor Eurwen mumbles, reluctantly taking his hand away from your forehead. You see him pause for a second, grip tightening on the paper bag of baked delights before relaxing.

"If you're not feeling well, you must tell me, y/n. I am your doctor and I just want you to get better."

He sighs, looking at you with a... loving? look in his eyes. Huh... loving? You never thought you'd describe his eyes as loving, especially towards you of all people! Haha, maybe it's a platonic type of love!

You nod at him, smiling awkwardly before looking at the small paper bag he held before gesturing to it.

"Doctor, what's that? Is that for me?"

You hum, staring curiously at the bag that smelled wonderful. You wonder whether he bought that for you or for himself. Or maybe he bought it for both of you to share?He'd do that once in a while when he was feeling hungry.

Doctor Eurwen looks down at the paper bag, smiling slightly as he places it on your table, opening it before taking out a small croissant.

"It's for both of us. I was hungry and bought a croissant for myself. Then I thought I'd get my favourite patient a little something as well."

He hums, pushing the small bag towards you as he munches on his croissant. You feel your heart flutter at his words, eyes widening as you look at the paper bag that carried another croissant in it. Ah, so he did get it for you! How nice of him...

"Thank you doctor, you really didn't have to. The hospital will get me breakfast later..."

"Don't worry about it, just treat this as a small snack."

He chuckles, smiling at you before he takes out his phone to show you a picture of his dog. Right! He had a dachshund dog that he treated like his own daughter!

"Milly gained some weight recently. She's been eating too much. I should reduce her treats."

The young doctor sighs, showing you some videos of his beloved puppy before looking at you with a cheeky grin. You can't help but feel your heart skip a beat at his attractive face.

"y/n, after you get better, we should go for a walk sometime. We can walk Milly together."

He proposes, looking down at his phone before chuckling softly. His cheeks were a soft pink, eyes clouded with happiness as you freeze in place, gulping nervously as you feel yourself grow hot at the sight of your doctor.

You try to answer, but your mouth was dry and your brain refused to cooperate normally, rendering your ability to speak useless at the sight of the handsome man. So you opted to nodding instead, laughing awkwardly as you avert your eyes elsewhere.

Damn, that was embarrassing as hell.

"Anyway, I'll be back with your medicine and check up later. Enjoy the croissant I got for you."

He mumbles, backing away as he pats your head. You watch as he leaves the room quietly, not mentioning anything about your flustered state. As soon as he was gone and the door to your room clicked shut, you let out a silent sigh of relief.

Thank god he left. You swear that you'd die from embarrassment if he remained in your presence any longer.

Shaking your head, you stretch slightly before looking out the window. What a beautiful day it was today! You can't wait for later and the following days to come!

...

A warm breeze kisses your skin gently, the smell of freshly cut flowers as well as sanitized equipment invades your senses as you rub your eyes and let out a soft yawn.

You immediately shoot out of bed, eyes wide as you observe your surroundings cautiously.

What? Flowers? You were sure that Doctor Eurwen removed them yesterday after the check-up...

You stare at the clear vase in confusion, looking around your room before the footsteps of someone familiar walks in. Doctor Eurwen! Maybe he'd know what's up!

"Doctor!"

However, you feel your heart sink slightly at the sight of the same small paper bag that you were quite sure you threw away yesterday. What the hell was going on? Oh, wait, the bakery was nearby so he migt've just gotten it again today, right? Haha...

"Well hello to you too, y/n."

What the- The same exact greeting too? Nah, this has to be some sort of joke. Right, a joke! He probably placed the flowers back there to play a little prank on you... Of course!

"Doctor, is- is this a joke? Haha... You did the same thing yesterday..."

"What? y/n are you alright? What are you talking about?"

Doctor Eurwen frowns at your words, walking towards you as he places the small paper bag down and reaches out his hand to touch your forehead. You can't help but flinch at his touch, looking up at him with a confused expression.

"Doctor, I swear you threw those flowers out yesterday! And you definitely bought the same exact pastries! That bag looks exactly like yesterday's! Why are you playing a prank on me?"

You whimper, looking at him as you look for him for an answer. Unfortunately, all you got was his concerned gaze and furrowed eyebrows as an answer.

"y/n, I didn't do that... Are you okay? Are you having delusions again? Maybe we should adminster you a different medicine..."

You stare at him in shock, not understanding what was happening. Wait, you were so sure that yesterday actually happened. Is this just a dream? But it can't be! Everything feels too real!

"Anyway, It's for both of us. I was hungry and bought a croissant for myself. Then I thought I'd get my favourite patient a little something as well."

Doctor Eurwen mumbles, gesturing to the paper bag of goodies on your table. But before you could protest any further, he says something which sends you into even more of a frenzy.

"Milly gained some weight recently. She's been eating too much. I should reduce her treats."

What the hell? That was the same exact line as from yesterday! You furrow your eyebrows at the doctor, chewing on your bottom lip as he talks about his pet dog before leaving the room, exactly the same way as yesterday. After he left, you couldn't help but throw the croissant into the trashbin.

Just what the hell was going on?

[mastermindmiko]

Milestones

Pairing: Fred Weasley + fem!reader

summary: A small blurb of a night at the burrow in bed with Fred

Word count: 762

Warnings: none, but lmk

Requests are open

I wrote this in a grand total of fifteen minutes at 1am, so if there's any mistakes please don't mind them, and let me know

masterlist

"I'm sorry about my family" Fred whispers so low that I almost don't hear him. I move my head to the side to face him with a frown. I ask, "what?"

"They can be a little much sometimes I know." Fred continues and I find myself even more confused. I place one of my hand's to his face and I ask, "what makes you say that?"

He doesn't say anything, but I don't press, hoping that he will say something anyway. I rub my thumb in soft circles over his cheek, and I shuffle a bit under the covers. He holds my wrist, taking my hand off his face to press a kiss to my palm. Even after dating for a while now, I still get butterflies.

"I've been told that my family comes on a bit strong. Mom with her affection, dad with all his muggle gadgets, Charlie with the dragons-" Fred starts but I cut him off, unable to hear him say anything else, "Fred, no don't say that. I love your family."

"Really?" Fred asks, hesitantly. I nod my head eagerly, and ask, "what made you think that Fred?"

"I wanted you to like me- I didn't want my family to freak you out." Fred replies with a small blush on his cheeks. I smile at him and say, "if you haven't noticed Fred I do like you, that's why I'm your girlfriend."

"Hopefully it stays that way." Fred mumbles as he pulls me closer to him. I nuzzle my face into his chest as he wraps his arms around me. He rests his chin on my head and I don't think I've ever felt more relaxed. He asks, "well aside from my family, how was your day?"

"It was good, I read a new book, it was great." I say as I recall the events of what I'm sure is now one of my favourite books. Fred says, "you can tell me all about it tomorrow."

"But nothing else really, what about you?" I ask him lifting my head up so I can look at his gorgeous brown eyes. He smiles and says, "George and I found a good location for the shop, it's in diagon alley and above it, there is a good apartment-it's all within the budget of course."

"Fred, that's great. I'm so excited for you." I beam at the wonderful news, and I can see that mischievous and excited look in his eyes, the same one he always had when he was about to prank someone, except that this time it was bigger.

"The apartment is great too, two bathrooms, two bedrooms- that is if you don't mind us sharing the apartment with George" Fred rambles, and I blink for a second before realising. I tease, " Fredrick gedion weasley! Is this your way of asking me to move in with you?"

He rubs the back of his neck, sheepishly. He says, " I kind of hoped that you wouldn't notice and just say yes. Things have been going well, I just thought that it was time- unless of course you don't want to-"

"Of course I want to, you idiot." I cut him off and nuzzle my head back into his chest. He wraps his arms more tightly around me and he presses a kiss to the top of my head and whispers, "good."

"Its got a big kitchen too since I know you like to bake." Fred says like he's still trying to convince me to move in with him, I would move in with him into a swamp if he asked me to. I reply, "Just some anxiety cookies no big deal."

"It doesn't matter what's their cause what matters is that they're damn good and by the way I love you" He says quickly that I almost don't catch it. My goes go wide and I look up at him and tease, "Crossing off a lot of big milestones today, Fred. What's next you're gonna pop out an engagement ring then tell me you're pregnant"

"Haha very funny" He replies, sarcastically, avoiding my gaze. I continue with a wide grin, I still can't believe he said it, "No seriously should I buy baby clothes, get you my ring size-"

"Go to sleep, love." He whispers before turning to the side to close the bedside lamp. I'm still smiling when I say, "Okay."

I wait a few seconds before pressing a knee to his cheek and wrapping my arms around his torso. I say, cheerfully, "I love you too by the way, goodnight."

[fourmoony]

May I go on a 𝐏𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐤𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐞 with Sirius and #6 if you’re feeling it <3 (I can’t get over how fun this celebration is!! Love you regardless of whether you’re feeling this or not haha)

pls don't stop requesting i'm having so much fun writing these lmao!!!! thanks angel, you're too sweet ♡︎

774 words | cw: none

Sirius is a ball of energy as he weaves in and out of stalls, a bag of cinnamon cookies in one hand and a caramel hot chocolate in the other. He has a pumpkin woollen hat on that Hope, Remus' mum, knit him last year, his hair falling in wild curls out of it. He looks happy. Undoubtedly so. It makes your chest warm, even if the rest of you is absolutely freezing.

You assume he's too excited to notice your sniffling, but when you hit the fifth time in two minutes, Sirius whirls on you to find you trying to wiggle some feeling back into your nose. Your cheeks redden, even more so than the autumn air has already made them. You've been caught.

When you'd told Sirius about the autumn themed market in town, he'd made immediate plans to take you. What you hadn't accounted for, was how high maintenance he'd be about the whole thing. This morning, when you arrived at his apartment, he'd practically reamed you out for not choosing appropriate attire. Apparently, stylish was not the vibe and "keeping all of your lovely limbs from getting frostbite" is.

Sue you, for wanting to look cute.

He'd rambled on for ten minutes about how cold you were going to be and only allowed you to leave the house when you agreed to wear the matching mittens to Sirius' hat.

"Don't even say it, Sirius." You warn him.

Sirius holds his hands up in mock defence, his smile equally as goading as it is knowing. "I'm sure I have no idea what you mean, doll face." He quips, stuffing the cookies into his jacket pocket and using his now free hand to poke at your cheek.

You try to bat him away whilst fighting off an amused smile.

"Oh, my!" Sirius beams, "Your cheeks are as cold as ice cubes," his pointer finger boops your nose, "Nose, too!"

"I'm fine." You pout, childishly.

It's rare, that Sirius is wholly right about something. You know he's going to milk this all day, now.

"If only you had a handsome, smart, caring, wonderful, boyfriend who could have pre-warned you that this might happen!" Sirius exclaims. Passers by eye you both sceptically, but you're used to the attention with Sirius - always the loudest in any room - Black.

"Okay, enough. I'm fine, really." You shoulder Sirius on, who's still muttering about how amazing he is at predicting the future.

The next few stalls are torturous. Your face only gets colder, your sniffling louder. Sirius refrains from goading you further, but seems to reach the end of his tether when he catches you blowing into your hands and rubbing them on your nose.

He sighs, pulling you to the side and out of the way of foot traffic.

"Okay, give me your face." He says, bluntly.

A startled laugh tumbles from your lips, "What?"

"Give me your face, I'm going to warm it up."

You stare at him perplexed, "Sirius-"

"No, your nose is practically blue. I love you, but I think I'm just vain enough to be less attracted to you if you don't have a nose." Sirius takes your face in his hands.

Your eyes go wide, desperate to fact check whether your boyfriend would actually love you less without a nose, but Sirius already has his entire mouth around your nose. His teeth nip the skin a little teasingly and you huff, resigned to the fate of having a slightly abnormal boyfriend.

You're glad he's pulled you away from the crowds as he blows hot air directly onto your nose. The warmth is welcomed, but his method is arguably questionable.

When he's done, he pulls back and gives you a once over. Then, he removes his scarf and wraps it in bundles around your neck. He presses a final kiss to the tip of your nose, which, thanks to him, you can feel.

"See, fixed it. Nose safe. Lets get some treacle tarts and head home." Sirius says, like he hasn't just tried to eat your nose.

It's a little much to keep up with, so you allow him to guide you, rather stunned, along to the next treat stall. It's not until you're home, in fuzzy pyjamas, with a mug of hot chocolate that you remember to ask, "Would you actually love me less without a nose?"

Sirius looks over, a little alarmed, with a mouth full of cinnamon cookie. He swallows, shrugs, devilish smile on full display. "As long as I'm here to save you, we'll never know."

You scoff, fuzzy socked foot reaching out to kick his thigh.

[aquatic-armageddons]

How the mercs would react to Y/N who listens to screamo

A/N: I've decided to make it so that Y/N can also sing screamo as well, but only for Scout and Demo. I've also put down (what I think) their opinion of screamo would be.

SCOUT:

I strike him as the type to also listen to a little screamo, so he'd be kinda pleased to meet another fan, though he'd be a little surprised at first. And even more so if Y/N can scream as well.

Y/N had just walked into the base's training gym to blow off some steam, as the team had lost a battle that day. Everyone was understandably disappointed and on edge, so after the team was asleep, they snuck into the gym to play some Whitechapel. The music played on a mini speaker that could echo throughout the entire gym, but not disturb the others' sleep.

Scout also had the same idea of sneaking into the gym (but to work out), and was shocked to see Y/N headbanging and screaming along to the song. He never expected this of Y/N, but he was definitely not gonna complain.

"Well this is surely somethin' different, short-stuff!" Scout exclaimed.

"What the hell, Scout?! How long were you standing there??" Y/N sputtered.

"Not too long, but damn, I didn't think you'd be into all that. And being good at it too!" Scout beamed, poking them on the cheek.

Y/N and him would spend awhile blasting screamo and singing along, at least until Spy would drag them both out by their ear for causing too much noise xD

SOLDIER

I can imagine Solly being familiar with screamo, though I doubt he would listen to it very much.

It was getting close to sundown, and he and Y/N offered to go out on a supply run for the team. While out getting said supplies, Y/N's phone began to ring, playing Lamb of God on full blast.

"Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry about that!"

"Dear God, I never expected that of you!" Solly chuckled as Y/N scrambled to shut their phone off, dropping it in the process.

He'd find their behavior cute, but he wouldn't bring it back up unless Y/N wanted to talk about it.

But he'd ask Y/N to ease him into the genre, and it would take some time, but eventually he'd enjoy it.

PYRO

I would think their music taste varies, as there are so many other things we don't know about them (and probably never will).

Y/N was unable to attend a battle as they were down with a nasty cold (I know Medic could probably use his gun here but whatever haha). After the team got back, Pyro decided to whip up some soup for Y/N and the rest of the team.

Pyro was about to knock on the door when they heard Y/N playing some Lorna Shore in the background. They waited until the song was over before they actually knocked, causing Y/N to slightly yelp.

"Come in!" Y/N called. Pyro opened the door with their head tilted, as if to ask about the music.

"I've liked this kind of music for a long time now. Wanna listen with me?"

The two of them would spend some time shuffling through Y/N's playlist, completely forgetting about the soup (they later heat it back up so it wouldn't be wasted haha).

DEMOMAN

I'm convinced Demo would be open to listen to any kind of music, and screamo is no exception. He'd enjoy it even more while drunk (it's actually quite funny to watch).

One day he and Y/N decide to go out drinking at a karaoke bar nearby (it was Demo's birthday present). They both are pretty tipsy by the time it's their turn to sing.

Demo sings his part (and is predictably terrible at it but who cares xD). But when Y/N selected a screamo song and began singing, the bar grew silent.

"Go on, lass! Sing yer hear out!!!" Demo slurred, headbanging to the loud song.

The two ended up being escorted off the stage, since hardly anybody else was interested in listening to another second of the song. Once outside, Demo sobered up a little at the feel of the cool air hitting his drunken face.

"I'm so sorry, Demo. I ruined your birthday night out-" Y/N started before they were cut off.

" It's alright, hon. Let's head back so you can do some more screamin'~" He got even closer to Y/N's face.

"And I ain't talkin' about the music anymore..."

HEAVY

Not exactly a fan at first, but would be open to listen to a few recommendations.

Y/N was feeling quite lonely, so they decided to pop in with Heavy, who was busy cleaning Sasha for the ntheenth time that day. He didn't mind having some company, only if Y/N didn't make too much noise.

Y/N decided to listen to some Cannibal Corpse while Heavy worked. They must not have connected their Bluetooth headphones to their phone properly, because their phone played the song on full blast, nearly scaring the daylights out of Heavy.

"Матерь божья!" He exclaimed, dropping the rag from his hand. Y/N quickly shut their phone off, completely red in the face.

"I-I'm so sorry about that, Misha! I thought my headphones were connected..." Their words trailed off as Heavy stared at them in mild disbelief.

Heavy couldn't help but chuckle. "Heavy didn't know you liked this music!" He ruffled the top of Y/N's head playfully.

"Let Heavy finish cleaning Sasha, then we listen to some more later."

ENGINEER

Same with Heavy: not a big fan in the beginning. But if given a few songs, then he would give it a try.

It happened to be the team's day off, and Y/N decided to lounge around in one of their favorite T shirts. They just grabbed a random one, as their dresser wasn't exactly the best organized.

Engie happened to be in the breakroom when Y/N walked in for a small snack. His eyes lit up slightly when he saw them, and even more so when he read their T shirt.

"So you listen to 5FDP too, dear?" Y/N whipped their head around to look at Engie in shock.

"Oh, since high school. They're my favorite!" Y/N beamed excitedly.

"I can play a few of their songs on my 6 string. Interested in a listen, sweetie?"

Y/N couldn't help but gush at the fact that they met another fan, but also with the sudden pet names.

'Let's see where this goes...'

MEDIC

I see him as a closet fan. He'd let on that he's a rock fan, but not the full extent. Like he wouldn't mention that he liked bands like Linkin Park and Metallica.

But he'd act quite excited if he discovered that Y/N was also a fan.

Medic and Y/N happened to get into a conversation about said music genre. "Vhat sort of music do you listen to in your spare time, Schatz?"

Y/N was hesitant to answer. The last thing they wanted was being put on the spot like that. "You'd hate the kind of music I like, Medic."

He scoffed lightly. "I highly doubt zhat, Schatz! It can't be zhat bad, can it?"

Y/N fought back the urge to roll their eyes. "Okay, I like screamo. Like the heaviest of heavy metal." They averted their eye contact with doctor, not wanting to see his disapproving face.

"Really?!" Medic practically shouted, making Y/N flinch a little. "Zhat's amazing! It's so nice to finally meet another fan like me!" He couldn't wipe the smirk off his face.

Y/N was not expecting that kind of reaction from him, but at least they didn't feel that nervous anymore (even with the slight ear damage lol).

SNIPER

He's definitely the kind of man to like classic rock, like Eric Clapton and Lynyrd Skynyrd. He'd know of screamo, but wouldn't be too big a fan.

He and Y/N had become quite close over the past few weeks, and at one point he finally decided to allow them to accompany him to his tower.

Y/N decided to bring their earbuds along, but they didn't realize how loud their music was (it was enough for Sniper to tell what it was).

"You like that, Sheila? Never strike you as that kind of person." Sniper spoke with his eyebrow raised.

"Oh snap, I didn't think my music was that loud. Sorry about that, Mundy." Y/N apologized while rubbing their neck nervously.

"It's alright, love. Just keep it down a little, 'kay?" He smirked while gently squeezing their shoulder in reassurance.

SPY

Not a fan whatsoever. He's tried to get into it, but he just couldn't do it.

Y/N was a decent judge of character, so it didn't take a rocket scientist to know he didn't like that kind of music.

Months passed by since Y/N joined RED/BLU. And in that time, Spy has made them his personal protege. One day, Y/N happened to be scrolling through a website (on their phone) that sells their favorite band's merch.

Spy happened to take a little peek other their shoulder, a smirk creeping on his face.

"So that's what you like, Mon chéri?" Y/N nearly jumped out of their skin as he spoke right next to their ear. "You never cease to amaze me. I'm always finding out new things about you."

"Spy! Ever hear of personal space??" Y/N hissed while blushing furiously.

Spy let out a hearty laugh. "No need to act all feisty, honey. Besides, at least now I know what to get you for your birthday."

[xomakara]

The Baby Bug

(re-posting from my old account seulrinnie-rinrin/xomakara-secondary)

SUMMARY | Wooyoung comes home from work after taking care of a baby and he really wants another child. PAIRING | Wooyoung x Reader GENRE | dad!Wooyoung, baby fever yo, suggestive implications, a cute little ball of sunshine, more fluff than anything lol, strong language RATING | SFW, suggestive LENGTH | 3,587 words TAGLIST | -- NETWORKS | AUTHOR’S NOTE | Watching any content with babies and kids just pull at my heartstrings and that’s what exactly happened when I watched this. They’d definitely be great dads in the future.

ATEEZ Main Masterlist

“I’m home!” Wooyoung calls out as he takes his shoes off at the entrance and slips his feet into his house slippers. Just as he was placing his bag on the floor, he heard the little pitter-patter of feet and a small body launching itself towards him. He caught the small boy in mid air with one hand, making him squeal happily before throwing him over his shoulder.

“Daddy’s home!” The little boy wiggles around excitedly.

“Aww, squirt, you missed me so much?” he says fondly, rocking him back and forth. “Where’s mommy?”

"Mommy is in the kitchen."

“Wooyoung? Is that you?” He heard his wife call out from the kitchen.

Wooyoung gently set the squirming kid down on the floor and padded into the kitchen, wiping his hands on his shirt. A broad smile stretched across his face as he saw his beautiful wife leaning against the countertop, cleaning up dishes. The sight reminded him of how far they had come, just from two lonely kids who could barely take care of themselves.

“I’m home, my love.” He leaned down to give you a kiss on the cheek.

You looked up and smiled. “Hey there, handsome. Did your day go well?”

He wrapped an arm around your waist. “It went great. Yeosang and I played with a baby all day today. He was the cutest thing ever.”

You lightly slapped his shoulder, looking all around the kitchen. “Don’t let Woojin hear you say that, haha. He’ll abandon us and go live with Seonghwa.”

Wooyoung snorted. “Are you kidding? That little terror is all we need. I can’t imagine life without him now.”

“Hahaha…” You agreed. “Okay, okay. Are you hungry or thirsty? Do you want anything to eat?”

“I’m not hungry for food but something else…” He pulled you closer to him. His lips descended on yours. “Want to have some fun?”

You laughed as he tugged you closer to him, covering your mouth with his own. You pulled away, breathless. “Not right now. Later. When Hongjoong and Seonghwa comes pick up Woojin for their play date.”

Wooyoung nodded his head. “Good idea.”

“Until then, let's find our little terror.” You took his hand and led him to the living room.

“Woojin? Baby, where are you at?” You called out, scanning the entire living room until you found him, playing with toys on the sofa. You and Wooyoung sat next to him. “What are you playing with, munchkin?”

The boy gave you a big grin. “Uncle Yunho got me a new toy. It makes sounds when you push the buttons and it makes bubbles. I like it.”

Wooyoung let out a laugh. “Your uncles sure like to spoil you, huh?“

Woojin beamed. “Because all the uncles love me!”

You grinned back. “That’s right, buddy. All the uncles love you very much. Now, are you ready to go? Because Uncle Hongjoong and Uncle Seonghwa should be here any minute to pick you up.”

“Why?” The little boy asked, still playing with the toy.

“Remember that the uncles are taking you to the zoo? And then you’re spending the night there.”

“Yeah, zoo!” Woojin clapped his hands excitedly. “I love the zoo!”

“Well, if you keep that happy attitude, I bet Uncle Seonghwa will get you some extra special treats.” You said, stroking Woojin’s hair.

“Like what?” The little boy tilted his head curiously.

“Hmm…I don’t know. Maybe some ice cream. Or maybe he’ll get you a candy or two. What do you think, baby?”

“Candy!” The boy exclaimed happily. “Can I please have candy?”

Wooyoung laughed and patted his son’s hair. “If you behave for the uncles, you might just get candy.”

“Are Uncle Yeosang and Uncle Mingi and Uncle Yunho and Uncle San and Uncle Jongho going to the zoo too?”

“Let’s ask them.” Wooyoung nodded, taking his phone out and calling everyone. You turned to look at Wooyoung as he talked to everyone. He was holding the receiver close to his ear and he had a bright smile plastered on his face. When he ended the call, he looked down at his son. “Yep, all the uncles are going too.”

“Yay!” Woojin cheered happily, bouncing up and down on his seat. He hugged you and Wooyoung. The three of you played with his toys and watched a little bit of TV before the guys showed up.

 As soon as Woojin saw Mingi, he launched himself at him and wrapped his arms around his legs, refusing to let go. Mingi lifted his leg up and swung him around in a circle.

Seonghwa looked at Wooyoung. “Everything all packed for our play date?”

You handed him Woojin’s bag. “Yep, all packed and ready.”

“Woojin, are you ready?” Mingi said to the little boy that still clung to his leg.

The little boy nodded enthusiastically. “Yes! Let’s go, Uncle.”

“Alright, squirt.” Seonghwa ruffled his hair affectionately. “Give your dad and mom a kiss and hug before you go.”

Woojin ran up to you, his little arms wide open. You bent down and kissed him on the forehead. “I love you, baby. Be good for the uncles, okay? We’ll miss you.”

"I love you mommy." He put both hands on your cheeks and gave you a quick peck. Then, he ran over to Wooyoung, jumped into his lap and hugged him tightly. “I love you, daddy. See you later!”

“Be good for your uncles, squirt.” Wooyoung gave you a wink before putting him down on the ground. He ran up to the guys and waved at you and Wooyoung, before running out the door with his uncles.

You watched him run down the driveway, laughing with Mingi and running to latch into Yunho’s arms. Your heart ached watching him leave but you knew that this would be beneficial for both Wooyoung and yourself. You leaned into Wooyoung’s chest and wrapped your arms around him.

“Finally alone.” Wooyoung whispered. “Finally.”

“Yeah, finally.” You smiled as you gazed up at him.

“Mmm…” He closed his eyes, savoring the feeling of being in your arms. “What should we do now, wife?”

You raised an eyebrow at him. “Just what kind of suggestion did you have in mind, husband?”

“Oh, you know…” He winked suggestively. “We could go into the bedroom. We could make love. Maybe even try something new…”

You couldn’t help but chuckle. “You’re incorrigible.”

He chuckled. “But you like it, don’t you?”

“As long as you give me all the attention and love that I crave, then yes. Yes, I do like it.”

He groaned softly, running his hands through your hair. “Ahhh, I love hearing you say that.”

“What do you want to do first?” You asked, breathlessly.

“Y/N, you should know by now what I want.” He said as he nibbled on your neck. “What do you want, wife?”

“I want…” Your voice broke off as he moved lower, kissing a trail along your collarbone. “…what you want.”

His teeth nipped at your collarbone and you gasped, arching your back slightly as he kept moving downwards. His tongue traced a path along your cleavage and as his hand caressed your breasts, you shivered involuntarily.

“My love, do you want another baby?” He whispered, continuing to touch your sensitive skin. "Maybe we can try for a baby girl? I'd love one that looks like you, my angel.”

“Maybe.” You murmured, closing your eyes as he massaged your nipples. “If it happens naturally.”

“With that cute little mouth of yours constantly asking for more, how can I deny you anything?” He said in between kisses. “Let's see if we can get pregnant tonight. Let's make love like never before, Y/N. Let's prove to ourselves once and for all that we are meant to be together.”

You chuckled. “As if we haven't proved that already.”

A few days had passed since Woojin’s playdate with Seonghwa and Mingi. Woojin loved the time spent with his uncles. They were so cool and made him laugh all the time. They also took him to all sorts of places – they went to the playground and the beach, they ate tons of snacks, played hide-and-seek and had ticklish fights. Wooyoung had gotten reports every day about how well behaved Woojin was during the playdates and he felt proud of his son.

You were on the couch with Wooyoung, Woojin sitting in the middle as you watched a family movie. Woojin had fallen asleep and was cuddled on his dad’s lap, snoring gently. Wooyoung smiled fondly at his sleeping son, idly tracing circles on his soft dark curls.

“He’s so well behaved when he’s not being a little terror.” Wooyoung muttered.

You laughed quietly. “He’s a little terror because he got that from you.”

“True.” He sighed, smiling fondly. “He definitely gets it from me.”

You looked at your son’s peaceful face as he snoozed away on your husband’s chest. The sight of him always filled you with such warmth. The little guy was so innocent and pure. And no matter how many times you thought you couldn’t handle his tantrums, he always managed to charm you with his innocence and eagerness to please. Even though it wasn’t easy raising a kid, seeing his joy at the simplest things brought you immense happiness.

And looking at him now, peacefully snoring away on Wooyoung’s chest, you suddenly realized that you wanted another baby. Because Woojin was growing up so fast, and although it was fun watching him grow and develop into a young man, part of you wanted another little person to take care of and dote on.

It was as if Wooyoung could hear your thoughts so he softly whispered. "Babe?"

"Hmm?" You turned to look at him, seeing the tender expression on his face.

"Let's try for a baby again." He murmured. "Please?"

Your heart skipped a beat at those words. “Really?”

“Woojin is growing up so fast. Soon, he won’t need us anymore. It’d be nice to have another little one running around the house. And maybe it'll be a girl this time, and she’ll be just as beautiful as you. She’ll be perfect. Just like her older brother.”

Your heart swelled with pride and love as you stared at him. There was nothing else you needed than having him by your side. This man who adored you and cared for you unconditionally. Who worked hard to provide for your family and keep them happy. A family that he created with you. Together, you were amazing. And you couldn’t wait to share this wonderful life with someone who makes you feel whole.

Wooyoung placed a gentle kiss on your lips. “So, shall we make another baby, wife?”

“Absolutely.” You replied without hesitation.

"Mommy? Daddy?" Woojin softly spoke up, his voice laced with sleepiness. "What are you doing?"

You and Wooyoung let out a small laugh. You stroked your son's hair. "Woojin, baby. Do you want to be a big brother?"

“Uh huh.” He nodded his head tiredly. "I want a brother or sister. Is there a baby in your tummy yet?"

You laughed softly. "Not quite yet, buddy. But we're trying."

Wooyoung let out a laugh as he ruffled Woojin's hair. "Well, we'll see. Come on, buddy. Let's get you tucked into bed so mommy and daddy can talk."

“Okay.” Woojin nodded his head obediently and stretched his arms towards Wooyoung. "Can you carry me to my room?"

"Sure thing, buddy." Wooyoung picked up his son and walked him to his bedroom. As he laid him down on his bed, Wooyoung lightly touched his nose with his finger and smiled. “Good night, my little pirate. Sleep tight and dream sweet dreams.”

After giving Woojin a kiss goodnight, Wooyoung returned to your room where you were lying in bed, reading.

"Hey." He entered the room, shutting the door behind him. "Are you done reading?"

You set the book down and looked at him, letting out a smile. "Almost."

He crawled onto the bed next to you, wrapping his arm around your waist. "Our little menace is asleep. What should we do now?"

You put your book down and turned on your side to look at him. "How about we spend some quality time together?"

"That sounds great." He kissed you softly. "Anything in particular you'd like to do?"

"I'm open to suggestions." You smiled, caressing his cheek.

"Well, if I may make a suggestion…" He leaned forward and pressed his lips against yours. "I think I'd like to fuck my wife senseless."

You groaned as his hot lips met yours, causing you to gasp. “You’re incorrigible.”

"I know." He grinned. "But you still love me, right?"

"More than anything." You pulled him closer to you, grinding your hips against his.

"Glad to hear that." He nuzzled your neck, making you shudder with desire. "I think I'd like to find out how much I can drive you crazy."

“How am I supposed to stay sane when you’re touching me like that?” You whispered seductively.

“Don’t worry, my darling. I’ll do my best to make sure you stay sane.” He breathed into your ear.

It's been almost a month since Wooyoung and you started trying for another baby. While you were both excited to start trying for another child, you weren't too surprised when your pregnancy test came out negative. And you were even less surprised when you took another test only a week later and it was also negative.

“It’s okay, my darling.” Wooyoung reassured you as he held your hand. “It will happen when it’s supposed to. We’ll keep trying until it works.”

“Yes.” You smiled. “We will. I know we will.”

After a few weeks, you started feeling more hopeful. Maybe it wouldn't take too long to conceive again. And perhaps you would get pregnant before the end of the year. You could barely contain your excitement as you waited for the results of the last two tests you had taken.

It was Friday afternoon and Wooyoung was preparing to leave for the studio to record for a new album. The rest of the members would meet up there later and record their parts.

You watched him getting ready, admiring his physique. His black hair was messily combed back and falling across his forehead, making him look utterly sexy. Every single move he made caused goosebumps to rise on your skin. As soon as he spritzed on some of his cologne, you couldn't help but feel nauseous.

His fingers reached out for yours. "Honey, what's wrong?"

"Nothing." You shook your head. "I'm fine."

"Are you sure? I don't want to leave you and Woojin home if you're getting sick."

You shook your head. "Just a little nauseo-"

"Come here." He pulled you close to him, cradling you in his arms. "Is something wrong?"

You tried to bury your face in his chest but his cologne still hit you straight in the face, causing you to push him away and run towards the toilet. Your stomach churned as you felt bile rising up your throat. You sat down on the floor and puked, dry heaving for a while until your stomach finally settled down.

"Baby? Are you okay?" Wooyoung rushed over to you.

"Sorry." You sniffed. "I'm okay now."

"Shit." He groaned, sighing deeply. "Should I just stay home? I'm sure the guys won't mind. I hate leaving you alone when you're ill."

"No, it's okay. I'm fine." You brushed off his concerns. "Really. I promise."

He frowned but decided to trust you. "Alright then. Just call me or text me if you start feeling worse. Okay?"

"Okay." You hugged him tightly, trying to reassure him.

"I'll drop Woojin at my parents before I head to the studio." He promised, kissing your forehead. "He can play with my parents and Kyungmin for the day while you get some rest."

“Thank you, my love.” You gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“Anytime.” He gave you another quick peck before heading out of the house with your son in tow.

You spent the morning cleaning the house, picking up Woojin’s toys, and doing the laundry. Feeling nauseous again, you headed to the bathroom. You closed the door and looked at the stack of pregnancy tests sitting on the top of the toilet. Taking them one by one, you compared each test strip to see if any showed two pink lines that signified you could be pregnant. They all showed one line except for one test.

Looking at it, you couldn't believe your eyes. Two lines, one faint compared to the other. Your heart began beating faster and your breathing became shallow as you stared at the positive test. You rummaged through your bedroom drawers to find another test. Once you found it, you carefully took it out and took it to the bathroom. After putting the first one aside, you used the second test and waited impatiently for the result.

"Oh my God! Oh my God!" You shrieked as the second test also showed the same two pink lines. "I'm fucking pregnant!"

Tears of joy began streaming down your cheeks. You didn't know whether to cry tears of happiness or frustration because this wasn't how you thought it would happen. It happened sooner than expected and despite all the prior negative tests from earlier, you welcomed the news with open arms.

Grabbing a tissue, you wiped your tears. You picked up the phone and face-timed a familiar person.

"Baby, what's wrong? Are you okay?" Wooyoung asked and you could see the worry in his face. You could hear the chatter of the guys in the background as they talked amongst themselves. "Should I come home?"

"No." You chuckled nervously. "Everything's fine. Actually… Everything's perfect."

"You're not sick?" He asked, eyebrows furrowed in concern. "You were vomiting this morning."

"Morning sickness, baby. Nothing serious." You smiled. "I'm pregnant."

"For real?! Are you sure?" Wooyoung sounded extremely relieved.

You held up the two positive tests for him, zooming in on the faint lines that signaled you were pregnant. You saw the happiness in his face. "See? Positive."

"I'm coming home." He said immediately, before calling out to the guys that he's leaving. "I'm going home! My wife is pregnant! Woo!"

You laughed as the guys teased him, Wooyoung saying that he would be at the studio bright and early tomorrow to finish recording for their album. The guys agreed and encouraged him to go home and spend time with his family.

"I'll go pick up Woojin first and then I'll be home. I love you." Wooyoung said before ending the video call.

You placed your phone on the countertop, breathing a huge sigh of relief. This was definitely the happiest moment of your life. You looked at yourself in the mirror, smiling widely.

"Wow. Me, the mother of two." You mused to yourself. "I can't believe it."

An hour had passed and you heard the front door opening, your son throwing his shoes off and running to envelope you in a hug.

"Mommy! Mommy! Daddy says you're having a baby!" He exclaimed, hugging you tightly.

"Did he?" You asked, holding him tighter. "Are you ready to be a big brother?"

"Yeah! Yeah!" Woojin shouted happily, bouncing up and down. "I'll teach him how to kick a ball! And to read! And… And..."

Wooyoung let out a laugh as he gave you a hug, placing his chin on your shoulder. "What if it's a girl?"

"Then I'll be the best big brother in the world." Woojin exclaimed as he looked up at his dad.

"My boy is already thinking like a big brother." Wooyoung murmured affectionately.

"Can I help take care of the baby?" Woojin asked shyly.

"Of course you can, kiddo." You replied. "The more the merrier."

"Yay! Because I have lots of ideas!" Woojin beamed. "I wanna help with cooking and bath time and feeding and changing diapers."

You laughed. "Sure, honey. That sounds like fun."

Wooyoung gently stroked his son's head. "That sounds good to me, too. What else did you have in mind?"

Woojin thought for a moment before his smile grew wider. "I want to sing lullabies to the baby!"

You laughed. "I can already imagine how noisy our house will become once the baby gets here."

"And… And... And…" Woojin continued excitedly, but you were too busy laughing at his enthusiasm to hear what he said next. "And..! I wanna share the room with the baby so that I can protect it."

"Aww." You cooed, burying your face in his hair. "You are such an adorable little boy. You're going to be the best big brother ever."

"Thanks, mommy." He kissed your nose. "Daddy said the same thing to me in the car."

Wooyoung grinned. "And I think it's safe to say that I'll be the best father ever."

"When are you not the best father in the world?" You turned your head to capture his lips in a sweet kiss. "I can't wait to meet our little princess or prince."

"Soon, my love." He whispered softly. "Very soon."

[maddy-k-reads-all-day]

Let’s run some errands! - Amanda The Adventurer Everything's Fine AU episode 2!

Episode 1:

“Hi friends! I’m Amanda! And today I’m going on some errands with my dad!” Amanda beams. The screen pans out to show Sam walking beside her. “Hey Dad? Where are we going?” 

“Um… the post office and the library.” Sam answers. Amanda smiles and skips along. Humming to herself and doing a little twirl. Sam chuckles. They quickly arrive at the post office. “First I gotta put these letters into the mailbox.” Sam says. 

“I’ll do it!” Amanda announces. Sam hands her the letters and she puts them into the slot, “Bye bye letters! Into the darkness you go!” Sam laughs nervously. 

“Now I gotta check the P.O. box and we’ll be on our way!” he says. Amanda nods and they go into the post office together. The door jingles as they walk through. Inside, Amanda quickly notices Wooly looking at all the colorful different flyers hung up about the wall, reading them with great interest. Amanda makes a “shh!” motion with her fingers to the screen, carefully sneaks up and-

“HUG ATTACK!” 

“AAAH! Oh! Amanda, it’s you… ah… hah…” Wooly struggles to catch his breath. “You scared me…” 

“What are you doing?” Amanda asks. 

“This poster caught my attention on the way in and once I read one I got stuck reading them all.” 

“Whaaat?” Amanda chuckles. 

“There’s so many things going on in town soon! Did you know they’re gonna have alpacas at the town fair this year?! Alpacas Amanda! ALPACAS!” Wooly starts shaking her. 

“Okay okay Wooly I get it!” Amanda says, lightly pushing him back. 

“No I don’t think you do- Ah! Nevermind that! What are you doing here?” 

“My dad’s just checking the mail.” Amanda says, “And then we’re going to the library because he’s gonna read to the kids!”  

“Oh my mom is inside mailing a package.” 

“Ooooh! We should go in and say hi!” Amanda suggests. Wooly looks at the screen with wide eyes and back at Amanda frantically. 

“Um… no you don’t have to. I mean you guys are really busy right? You got places to be and things to do! So… maybe another day?” Wooly laughs nervously, somewhat pushing Amanda towards the door. 

“I guess we wouldn’t want to be late.” Amanda replies. 

“Well it was nice seeing you Wooly!” Sam smiles.  

“Tell her I said hi, okay Wooly?” 

“R-right…” Wooly says slowly, waving awkwardly. The door jingles as Amanda and Sam leave. He glances back at the door to the other room in the post office and lets out a big sigh. “That was close…” 

“That was… odd…” Sam says. 

“Hm? Oh Wooly? He’s always like that. Doesn’t like me going over his house either. Oh! But that’s because he says my house is waaaaay cooler.” 

“Right…”

“Aha! Do you see the library? I see the library!” Amanda beams. “Bet I can beat you there!” 

“Haha! Not if I have anything to say about it!” Sam says. He trails behind Amanda and she quickly gets there first. Turning around and giving her father a triumphant smile. They go inside the library where Amanda immediately runs up to Riley and gives them a big hug. 

“You’re here!” Amanda gasps.

“Yeah… I’m here…” Riley chuckles. “What have you been up to?”

“Adventuring as always!” Amanda says proudly. 

“I see. Well, I’ll see you around.” Riley says. Amanda immediately grabs on their sleeve. 

“You’re leaving already?” There they are. The puppy-dog eyes. Riley winces. She glances at Sam who shrugs his shoulders. 

“Okay… I’ll stay for a little while…” Riley sighs. Sam mouths ‘thank you’. “You still owe me a soda.” Sam sighs and shakes his head. “Kate’s in the children’s section.” 

“We’ll be in the teens room!” Amanda beams. Sam grimaces. 

“Don’t be a buzzkill.” Riley smirks. “Or I’ll show her where the cuss-word dictionary is!” 

“You mean an ENTIRE book full of swears?!” Amanda gasps, “Show me! Show me! Show me!” Sam glares at them and they start to laugh wickedly. 

“On second thought Riley. Weren’t you just about to leave?” Sam smiles through his teeth. 

“I can stay for a little longer.” Riley smirks.

“I see, well I’ll go talk to Kate now then.” Sam replies. Riley freezes. 

“Oh that reminds me, heh I think that book is checked out today. Bummer. Guess we’re going to the teens room after all!” 

“Yaaaay!” 

Sam watches them go and lets out a big sigh. Kate appears behind him. 

“Wow. That was one big sigh.”

“They are a terrible influence.”

“But they're the only one who can keep the children busy while we work.” Kate reminds him, gently elbowing him. 

“That's also true…” Sam sighs, “I guess at the end of the day all that matters is that they don't find out.” 

“Right.”

-----------------------------------

“And then Gretchen found this really pretty flower! Like the prettiest ever!” Amanda explains, making big motions with her hands. 

“Wow! That's cool. Whatcha drawing there?” Riley asks. 

“It's me and my dad!” 

“Sweet.”

“What about you?”

“A bloody skull with snakes and roses coming out of it!”

“That's so cool! Can I have it?”

“And what's a kid like you gonna do with it?”

“Hang it on my wall of course. What were you planning to do with it?”

“Sell it.”

“Then I'll ask my dad to buy it for me! For my birthday!!”

“Didn't your birthday already happen?”

“Well at least I still get birthdays.” Amanda pouts. 

“Wha- what's that supposed to mean?!”

“I'm calling you old.” She smirks. 

“Come mere you little brat.” Riley says, grabbing Amanda and giving her a nugie. 

“Stop! I give! I give!” Amanda laughs. Riley lets her go. “I guess old people are cool too tho-”

“That's a weird way to ask for something.”

“Can I have it? Please please please! I'll give you my whole piggy bank!”

“I don't need your piggy bank Amanda. You can have it for free.”

“Yippee!”

“Are you ready to go sweetie?” Sam asks, poking his head into the library's backroom. 

“Dad! Dad! Look what Riley sold me for free!” 

“Wonderful. Make sure you say thank you!”

“Thank you Riley!”

“Sure thing kiddo.” 

Amanda runs over to Sam and they leave together. Hand in hand they cross the street. 

“Did you have a good day today?” Sam asks.

“Yep!” Amanda beams.

“Good. That's good…”

“But I wish I was able to spend more time with you… it feels like we were apart most of the day…”

“I'm sorry you felt that way. Okay… how about to make it up to you… we make some ice cream sundaes at home. My treat!” 

“Look, I will never turn down free ice cream!” Amanda giggles. 

The episode ends showing a little montage of Sam and Amanda having fun making sundaes as the credits play. The Hameln logo appears at the very end. Stay tuned for more Amanda the Adventurer on Hameln Jr!

Authors Note: Yeah, this one is a bit shorter. Was meant to be a Sam and Amanda episode and a bit of a lore episode. Still not 100% sure which route we're going so this could be interpreted either way ^^'

So is Everything Fine? Or is something amiss here?

[gremlin-girly]

February 15th

Pairing: Ari Levinson x reader

Tags/warnings: FLUFF, established relationship, petnames (honey, sweetheart)

Not beta'd and I do not give permission for my work to be reposted, copied, translated or put through an AI Machine.

Summary: Your boyfriend forgot about Valentine's Day.

Word count: 719

Navigation | Valentine's Masterlist | Ari Masterlist

Dividers by: @/enchanthings-a

Ari didn't hate Valentine's Day per se. But he wasn't exactly big on it either.

It was just another day, one with glitter, chocolates, hearts and companies preying on significant others to buy over priced flowers that would die the next day or arrive a week late or meals that were sub-par at best but cost a small fortune.

To Ari, there were far more important days to celebrate and he need a reason to buy flowers or chocolates for you other than just because.

It was, however, his own fault that he didn't tell you this reasoning explicitly and in typical Ari fashion, didn't check his personal mobile until he got home late Valentine's Day and by then it was too late.

Not only had you wished him a Happy Valentine's Day via text, you had let yourself in to his home with the intention of surprising him after work and had fallen asleep on the sofa; half a glass of red wine abandoned on the coffee table, a box of chocolates that had been haphazardly broken into and a gift bag that Ari didn't even want to guess how many gifts you'd gotten him were tucked away in.

He eyed your sleeping form and stepped back over the threshold, closing the door quietly and heading back to his car. Head in his hands he cursed loudly. How could he have forgotten? It's not like there weren't any bright red signs literally EVERYWHERE to remind him.

What was open? He cursed himself further.

What kind of boyfriend gets gas station flowers and a card?

Him. Apparently him.

He groaned into his hands. How long had you waited for him? God, the look on your face when he hadn't came home at the usual time....

He was only making himself feel worse. He needed to do something.

Putting the car in reverse he backed out the driveway and sped away to the nearest supermarket he could find. He hated seeing so many other men on late night trips - hated he was one of them - but he couldn't bare to come home with nothing, not to you.

By the time Ari was pulling back into the drive, it was almost midnight. He was creeped in, relieved to find you still asleep and went to work setting up his grand idea. When the time he was done, it was already past midnight and he was gently shaking you awake.

"Ari?" You mumbled, rubbing sleep from your eyes. You blinked a few times before breaking into a beaming grin. "Happy Valentine's Day. How long was I asleep? I was supposed to surprise you!"

"Well I was surprised." Ari chuckled, dipping his head to kiss you softly. "And it's February 15th now, sweets."

You sit up a little bit with a disappointed sigh. "Aw dammit. You can still open your gifts though."

"I will but first," Ari straightens and offers you a hand. "I want you to have yours."

Your smile doesn't even crack as you take his hand and he leads you to the kitchen, holding your hand tightly.

"Now, I didn't have a lot of time." Ari says as he pushes open the door. Your greeted by flickering candlelight, the dining table adorned with a variety of snacks like a giant charcuterie board. You gasp quietly, eyeing up your favourite snacks, cheeses, cold meats and grapes. Your joy is palpable and your grip on Ari's hand tightens. He smiles down at you to find you almost jumping for joy.

"Ari!" You squeal. "This is... it's..."

He raises an eyebrow at you curiously before he's half tackled into the door frame as you hug him. When you speak your next words, they're so quiet Ari almost misses them.

"This is the romantic thing anyone's ever done for me." There's a quiet sniff and you look up at him with teary eyes and a wide smile. "I love it so much. This is so much better than flowers."

"Haha... yeah." Ari rubs the back of his head nervously but pecks your lips. "Happy February 15th."

"And I just got you beard balm!" You huff, picking at the grapes.

"Well honey, you'll just have to up your game for next year." Ari teases back, earning him a sly smirk.

"Just you wait."

End

This marks the end of the 2025 Valentine's Special!

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@stargazingfangirl18 | @awkwardgiraffe726 | @irishhappiness | @looking1016

[atlasofthestaars]

[MK X READER] New Era - Chapter .010

first part | previous part | next part

NOTE: Finally to chapter 10! 

Don’t think too hard about this poll, it’s only kinda relevant to the plot, but not in a major way. You can theorize what this means, but I won’t really confirm what it means.

Please let me know of the love interests the reader has interacted with so far is your favorite! Preferably in the context of the story ! 

A list of the choices I’m talking about are: Liu Kang. Bi-Han, Kuai Liang, Tomas, Kung Lao, Raiden, Kenshi, and Johnny Cage.

As usual, taking these opinions for about a week after this goes up, aka when the tumblr poll ends!

Kitana made it in as a love interest! I was NOT expecting the total landslide victory she had haha

As a friendly reminder, this story is canon divergent :) Also, this is Mortal Kombat, but I did feel the need to warn for gore near the end!

FROM THE EYES OF ONE WHO WITNESSES SOMETHING TRULY IMPORTANT

Today was finally the day.

Basking in the sunrise, a large grin spread across your face. The gentle beams of light warmed you up to combat the light breeze that passed by. You felt the excitement that surged through you, reminding you of how you felt the day of the entry exam for Kung Lao and Raiden.

That was months ago, and you could hardly believe how much time had passed.

���I see that you are eager for today.” Liu Kang remarked. You turned your head to look back at the god, unable to hide your excitement. The fire god smiled just as brightly as you did, amusement sparkling within his glowing eyes.

“It’s hard not to be.” You quipped, your fingers tapping the wooden railing. You closed your eyes as you envisioned your students that you had trained hard to get to where they were now. Sure, you had been given students that had been trained well, but it was undeniable that you left a positive influence in honing their skills. “We’ll finally determine who Earthrealm’s champion is.” 

“We shall indeed.” Liu Kang stepped beside you, his shoulder brushing against you gently. You enjoyed the warmth the fire god radiated, it felt comforting as usual. He looked at the sunrise. It was funny to you how, despite being a god, he always seemed to enjoy these mundane early mornings with you. Then, he returned his gaze back to you. “Do you have any predictions on who it will be?”

“That’s like picking a favorite.” You pointed out. Still, you pursed your lips and sighed as you deliberated over the answer. You let out a small hum, scooting just a touch closer to Liu Kang. It was colder than usual, and you sought out his warmth. The demigod did not complain as your arm brushed up against him. “I think in my heart I believe in Raiden, but I know he has not beaten Kung Lao yet.”

“I see.” Liu Kang replied. There was something to his tone of voice that you couldn’t quite place. It was as if he expected that answer, but there was also something else there. “Thank you for undertaking the training for the champions.” 

“Thank you for believing in me.” You countered, looking at the god. You paused, trying to remember the words he told you long ago. “I remember how you told me that you trusted me to do this task, all those months ago.” Your gaze dropped to your fidgeting hands. “It really inspired me to hear those words from you. Not just because you’re a god, but because it’s well…you who trusted me, if that makes sense.”

A gentle hand rested on your shoulder. Yet this time, it was on the shoulder furthest from Liu Kang, making his arm gently wrap around your shoulders. He gave your shoulder a squeeze, bringing you just a little closer to him. It was comforting. You looked over to the fire god beside you to see an expression that told you that he was so proud of you.

“I am honored to have inspired you.” Liu Kang said, his voice a bit quieter this time. There was pride and joy within his voice, but you could sense a hint of something else within his tone. It was something you couldn’t quite place, but it made you happy regardless. He paused, eyes searching you. For a moment, you saw his eyebrows furrow and there was an almost imperceptible sadness in his eyes. Then, in the next instant, it was gone. 

What was that?

“Not many can say that a god was honored to motivate them.” You pointed out with a chuckle, joking around to push out the confusion you felt. Were you just seeing things? Or had Liu Kang truly been sad in that one instant? And if he had…why?

“It is only because few are worthy of such praise.” Liu Kang pointed out, and you felt your cheeks grow warm at the compliment. You focused your eyes upon the sunrise once more. You both stood there, side by side, enjoying the early morning peace. “Are you excited to see Outworld?” The god inquired, breaking the silence.

“Excited feels like such an understatement.” You admitted watching the sun rise high into the sky. The oranges and pinks faded out, giving way for a soft blue. “I feel like I might finally learn something about myself once I finally go there.” You told him, alluding to the memories the two of you had long since stopped talking about.

“I hope that you will.” Liu Kang said, though there was a strange tone in his voice. Hesitance? There were a lot of emotions you couldn’t decipher well from him at the moment. You felt his fingers twitch on your shoulders. “Would you ever consider staying in Outworld, given the chance?”

“I…” You began, but your mind blanked. You blinked as you took a deep breath in, trying to think of what you would do. In all honesty, you weren’t certain. The voice in your head told you that you needed to leave this place and go explore in order to figure yourself out. But on the other hand, if you left, you would be leaving the whole life you had been building up behind. “I’m not sure.”

“No need to concern yourself over such a choice right now.” Liu Kang told you, concern in his tone as he noticed how torn you were. Had you been looking over, you would have seen a hint of relief on his face. “It was merely a hypothetical.” 

“I know.” You said, shrugging. “I just never really thought about it.” You admitted, sighing. “Plus, I doubt they would let an Earthrealmer wander around, from what you told me.”

“They are not often fond of Earthrealmers, but that does not mean it is impossible for you to go there and be accepted.” He consoled you. “Do not forget that you are not exactly a normal Earthrealmer.” He told you, reminding you of your potential origins.

You looked at your arms again, remembering the innate magic running through your blood. 

Right. There was a high chance you were an Edenian. A theory only you and the fire god knew. You sighed leaning against the railing. Would it really make a difference if you were of Outworld blood? You were essentially a stranger to everything in Outworld, making you no different than an Earthrealmer.

Sensing your distress, Liu Kang squeezed your shoulder again.

“My apologies.” He said softly, his gaze gentle as he scanned your face. “I did not mean to upset you.”

“You didn’t.” You reassured him, turning to look at him. You brought a hand up and placed it on his hand, squeezing it. “I just worry too much, sometimes, you know me.” You said, poking fun at yourself to lighten up the situation.

“Your worries are not unfounded.” The fire god reassured you, nodding. “But just know, no matter what choice you make in the future, you always have a home in Earthrealm.” 

Your heart swelled, knowing very well he was right. No matter where you went, you knew that you at least had a place to call home. It was a comfort not many had to fall back on. You closed your eyes, unable to hide the smile that spread across your face.

“I know.”

“Here you go.” 

“Finally!” Kung Lao grinned as he took the box from you. You grinned back, watching as he opened the box up and held up the final product. He took in a deep breath as he looked between you and the hat, unable to contain his joy. 

“Go on, put it on.” You encouraged him, gesturing for him to put the hat on. With a nod, he lifted the hat and placed it on his head. You inhaled, feeling that all too familiar wave of nostalgia wash over you. The hat just looked so…right.

“How do I look? Perfect, right?” Kung Lao asked, cockiness in his voice as he struck a pose for you to show off the hat. You snapped out of your stupor.

“I think you’d look a little better like this.” You said, raising a hand up to put a hand on the brim of the hat. You laughed as you pulled the hat down, covering his eyes. He let out a shout of protest as he adjusted the hat back up.

“Foul play!” He huffed, a small pout on his lips as he pulled it back up. He shot you a playful glare, to which only made you laugh again. “I know you’re just jealous though of how good I look.” Kung Lao tacked on, making you roll your eyes. “Oh, here, by the way.”

“Hm?” Confused, you grabbed the small box the former farmhand shoved into your hands. You looked down at it before looking back up, sending him a confused look. “What’s this?” You inquired, lifting the box up to try and inspect it.

“Well, typically when one wants to know what’s in a box, they open it.” Kung Lao pointed out sarcastically. You shot him a narrowed look, making him hold his hands up in surrender. “Just open it!” He insisted, nodding towards the box.

“Alright.” You relented. You opened the box slowly, not certain of what waited for you. You let out an involuntary gasp as you saw the contents. It was a necklace with a chinese dragon engraved intricately. In its hands held two small jade orbs. “When did you…?”

“I made a small request for the blacksmith to make you something too.” The former farmhand admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. He sounded humble as he, in an almost shy way, looked away. He was trying to play it cool. “I got Madam Bo to help design the dragon, and she also provided the jade, Lord Liu Kang also approved of the design too.”

“This is amazing.” You said, unable to hide a grin that spread from ear to ear. “Thank you, Kung Lao.” 

“It’s nothing.” Kung Lao said, putting on his best cocky smile. “You helped me make my hat dreams come true, it’s only fair.” You lifted up the necklace from the box, admiring the craftsmanship in the light. It was truly breathtaking.

“Can you help me put it on?” You asked, looking at the man. He nodded, and you handed it to him, and turned around. Delicately, he placed the chain around your neck, his fingertips brushing against your neck in a gentle way. “Thank you.” 

“Just know now you have something to show off now whenever you talk about Earthrealm’s champion.” Kung Lao bragged as you turned around. You rolled your eyes again, but was unable to hold back a laugh at his bravado.

“We’ll see today if that rings true.” You told him, before turning your attention to Liu Kang who you saw walking into the Wu Shi. “Go back to the others, we’re starting soon.” You instructed him, before quickly running off to go meet up with the fire god.

“I see Kung Lao has his hat.” Liu Kang observed, watching your student run off towards the courtyard. You nodded, smiling as you joined the god’s side. Said fire god’s gaze drifted down and looked at your new necklace. “And I see you have your new necklace.” He said warmly. a smile pulling at his lips. “It looks lovely on you.”

“Thank you.” You said, accepting the compliment. You looked around, sighing. “It’s hard to believe that we’re leaving for Outworld in a week.” You commented, staring up. “I know we just discussed it earlier, but still…it’s hitting me in waves of realization.”

“Indeed. Time passes quite quickly.” Liu Kang said, nodding. You wondered just how mere months felt to the god who, as far as you were concerned, was immortal. “Come, let us go and begin the exams.” He said, tilting his head to the path ahead. You followed, matching his path to the courtyard. 

Once you reached the courtyard, you spotted the four. You smiled, observing them as they discussed amongst themselves. You assumed they were probably bickering, from the expressions on their faces. You blinked as Liu Kang handed you a mallet, gesturing to the gong. You nodded, understanding what he wanted, and swung at the gong. the sound reverberating throughout the Wu Shi.

“And today, one of you will be chosen to fight for it at the tournament.” Liu Kang said, his arms spread out. He walked towards the four men, stopping just before the steps. You followed behind, hands behind your back as you put on your display of teacher professionalism. As the four stopped in front of you two, you stepped to stand beside the god.

“Only one of us, Lord Liu Kang?” Raiden inquired, looking at the two of you. You nodded silently. “Isn’t Outworld fielding several champions?” 

“The tournament’s rules give the host that advantage.” Liu Kang explained, looking around at the four men. “And it is Outworld’s turn as host.” 

“You know…I don’t why I’ve never asked this…” Johnny piped up, placing his hands on his hips. He looked towards Raiden, chuckling before looking back at Liu Kang. “What’s our record at this tournament? Also uh,” The actor gestured towards you, “Why doesn’t teach over there participate either?” 

“Outworld and Earthrealm are pretty even in wins.” You explain, speaking up once Liu Kang looked towards you. “Though, as of late, Earthrealm has been on a bit of a winning streak.” You say, remembering what the fire god had told you about the tournament. “As for me not participating, it’s not my place to participate.” You explained vaguely. You watched as the four looked at you perplexed.

When the tournament had been brought up to you years ago, Liu Kang and you had both agreed that it was probably best for you to not participate. Your potential status as an Edenian, though no one knew of it, would probably be the topic of controversy if that ever got out. It was just better this way.

That and…you had a feeling that someone else was destined for that title.

“Indeed, Earthrealm has been on a winning streak as of late.” Liu Kang said, picking up where you left off. “However, in retaliation, Outworld has been gaining strength.” His voice grew more serious. “Should it win, it’s more militant factions will be emboldened.” 

“I thought you admired Outworld?” Raiden questioned. His tone was polite, though it did drip of confusion at the statements Liu Kang had just said. You figured that was fair, Liu Kang spoke very little ill of the other realm.

“It is a place of great knowledge, wealth, and beauty.” Liu Kang said, walking down the steps. You followed in tow. It was hard to believe the words that left Liu Kang’s mouth, the old version of Outworld burned into your mind. It made you all the more eager to erase those negative memories, and see the new realm he spoke so fondly of.

“But our realms do not share goals and beliefs.” The protector of Earthrealm continued. He walked forward with you by side, and the four candidates for champions followed behind. “We coexist peacefully because Outworld respects our strength.”Should we show weakness, our rival…will become our enemy.”

You held your breath for a moment, briefly remembering Earthrealm in ruins after an attack by a powerful tyrant.

That could not happen. You surely had trained the four enough, right?

“I will not lose, Lord Liu Kang.” Kung Lao spoke, snapping you out of your memories. You glanced over to Kung Lao, holding back a huff. Ever the proud man, but you knew very well that he could back it up. He, after all, won the most during spars and had a lot of potential. His pride was not unfounded.

“First you must win the right to represent us.” Liu Kang told him. You all approached the monks, standing respectfully for you all. In front of you, in the center of the monks was a luxurious wooden chair. Liu Kang stood in front of it, and you took your place behind the chair, standing vigilantly. “Whichever outlasts the others will be chosen.”

Liu Kang sat, and the monks all sat as well. You remained standing, looking carefully at the four you had been in charge of training over several months. You took in a deep breath as silence settled in. Liu Kang had put you in charge of deciding who to test.

“Raiden.” You spoke up. Quickly, the man’s eyes met yours. You stared back, scrutinizing the man before gesturing. “You will go first.” You instructed, following the instinct you had in your gut. You watched as Raiden stepped forward, bowing towards you and Liu Kang. You smiled at him. Then, you heard Johnny Cage’s laugh.

“Good call.” Johnny said, his arms crossed as he looked at his peer. “Cull the weak first.” He said with the utmost confidence. His arms uncrossed, placing his hands on hips. His chest puffed out, showing off his confidence. A smug smile appeared on his face.

“Johnny Cage.” You addressed, meeting his eyes. You held back a sly grin as you nodded towards the place next to Raiden. “You will be his challenger.” Despite the instruction, the confidence did not falter at all, which was expected.

“Ready for your close up?” Kenshi commented.

“Alright, let’s do this.” Johnny Cage confidently said. He leaned forward, stretching a bit. Then he looked over to Raiden and pointed at him. “But remember, farm boy, I’m a global martial arts icon.” The actor bragged. Kenshi and Kung Lao left for the sidelines, allowing the two to get in their positions. “I don’t think you can handle this much boom.”

“I am ready, Johnny Cage.” Raiden replied simply. He was not deterred from the swagger the actor brought. You smiled, glad to see that over time, his training had instilled more confidence within his abilities. “My mind and spirit fight as one.”

“Fight!” Liu Kang’s voice rang out.

You held your breath as it began. Early on, you watched as Johnny Cage took the advantage, going aggressive against Raiden. Predictably, his reckless style was soon countered by the defensive and reactive way Raiden fought against him. 

It did not take long for Raiden to take down the actor, in the end.

“This fight was an honor.” The former farmhand remarked. He stretched out a hand towards Johnny, who sat on the ground. There was a moment of hesitance, and you saw the unhappy look on the American’s face. Still, he took the hand and got up with the winner’s help. 

“You’re welcome.” Johnny replied, a slight disgruntled tone in his voice. Still, he took the loss as it were.

“Kenshi Takahashi.” You spoke, watching as Johnny Cage walked off, shaking off the loss. Your eyes traveled to the swordsman, who was now alert. “You will face Raiden next.” You instructed. The man nodded, stepping up to the fighting grounds, his sword already unsheathed. 

“You have skills, Raiden, but you’re inexperienced.” Kenshi remarked, staring down his competition. Your eyebrows raised at the barest hint of trash talk. 

“Whatever experience I lack, I make up for in heart.” Raiden countered, once again not thrown off by his opponent’s insult. He even did not go to insult them back, remaining humble as ever. Determined, he matched Kenshi’s gaze.

“It’s nerve, not heart, that wins fights.” The swordsman berated. His eyes narrowed, at what he thought was the folly of his opponent. The two settled into their fighting stances, ready to duke it out for the position. “I should know, I’ve been in hundreds of them.”

This fight was much slower paced. It was a patient battle between two fighters who did not dare to show weakness to the other. Blows were traded with caution, and you noticed how every moment of weaknesses from either one was exploited. It was tense, despite the defensive fight. 

Still, in the end, Kenshi had underestimated his opponent. Ultimately he went for an attack that was too risky. Taking advantage of it, Raiden took the chance and toppled his opponent, leaving Kenshi lying on the ground in defeat.

“Do you still question my nerve?” Raiden inquired, staring down at the defeated swordsman. 

“I do not.” Kenshi replied, getting up from the ground on his own. A sorrowful and disappointed look appeared on his face. “Yours was a well earned victory.” The man admitted. Although you could sense the disappointment in his own ability lingering, you watched as Kenshi bowed respectfully to Raiden. Raiden returned the bow.

“You may rest.” Liu Kang spoke up. You watched as the god stood up, walking towards the victor. You walked past the monks, joining by his side. “This evening you will face your final opponent.” You both looked to the left, to Kung Lao.

A smug smile appeared on the man’s face. This was the fight you had been expecting. It made sense. The most naturally talented of your four against the hardest worker. Not only that, but they had been together since their origins. To you, it felt as if it were to be.

“Come, I’ll make you all dinner.” You told your students, looking around. You watched as they perked up, following you to the dining hall of the Wu Shi. As they followed you, you turned to give them all a bright smile. “I’m proud of all of you.” You told them, and you truly meant it.

Liu Kang watched as everyone dispersed, including the other monks. He was left in silence, observing the peaceful courtyard around him. He heard something, and turned around. A hint of surprise appeared on his face as he watched as Geras appeared before him.

“Geras.” He said, a hint of surprise in his voice at the sudden appearance. 

“Lord Liu Kang.” The construct spoke, dipping his head respectfully. He looked at his creator, a serious look on his face. “I need to speak to you.” He said, a tone of urgency in his voice. “It’s about…” His voice dropped to a whisper, speaking your name.

For the first time in eons, Liu Kang’s blood ran cold.

“Lord Liu Kang, where have you been?”

You let out a sigh of relief as you spotted Liu Kang approaching the Wu Shi. You walked up to him, a furrow in your brow. Night had already settled in, and you had to arrange the fight yourself since the fire god had been absent. While you went out to look for him, you had put Kenshi in charge, much to Johnny’s distaste.

“I simply had to retrieve something.” Liu Kang told you, holding a small box. He handed it to you. “Give this to the victor.” He instructed you, and you nodded. You looked at Liu Kang a moment longer, a pit of worry in your stomach.

Why was he avoiding your gaze?

“Alright.” You said, pushing out the paranoid voice in your head. You shouldn’t linger on what was surely something insignificant. You looked down at the box, gripping it tightly. There was a tense moment between you two that passed before Liu Kang walked off, and you followed.

Masking your concern, you put on a neutral face as you both made your way to the courtyard. Kenshi and Johnny looked back, varying looks of relief on their faces as you both appeared. Kung Lao and Raiden, ever vigilant, remained in their sitting positions. You ignored the looks Kenshi and Johnny sent your way as you stood behind Liu Kang’s chair.

You were being paranoid.

“Proceed.” You instructed breaking the silence, after waiting for Liu Kang to fully settle in his seat. Wordlessly, Raiden and Kung Lao stood up. A smug smile was plastered on Kung Lao’s face, which contrasted Raiden’s determined look. 

“Fifty bucks says Kung Lao wins.” Johnny Cage whispered, leaning behind you to bet with Kenshi. 

“Make it interesting.” Kenshi replied. “Bet me Sento.” 

“Hah!” Johnny let out a laugh. “Not on your life.” He declared. You found yourself smiling at their antics, lessening your tenseness. Johnny Cage proved to provide some relief from the stress that followed you once again.

“Raiden. Kung Lao.” Liu Kang addressed the two men, after standing up. He approached them, looking between them. “The winner of this match will represent Earthrealm against Outworld. It is a grave duty, not to be undertaken lightly.” He reminded them. “You may step back now, and suffer no dishonor.” 

“I choose to fight, Lord Liu Kang.” Raiden declared first, stepping up. His determination did not waver as he stared at the god.

“As do I.” Kung Lao piped up. His voice held a cocky tone to it, as if he already knew the winner of the match. 

“Then may the best person win.” Liu Kang declared. He bowed to both Raiden and Kung Lao, who both bowed respectfully in return. You shifted, gripping the box in your hands tighter. Anticipation grew as you wondered what exactly was in the box. Liu Kang returned to his seat.

“Concede Raiden.” Kung Lao goaded his fellow peer, after letting out a small confident laugh. His hand gestured to him. “You have never beaten me.” He reminded him, pointing at the other man who also hailed from Fengjian. “That won’t change today.”

“No?” Raiden replied. “If there’s one thing I learned…” You watched as Raiden glanced to you before returning his gaze to Kung Lao. “...the only constant in the universe is change.” The two, almost simultaneously got into their fighting positions. 

The match was almost electric. 

Kung Lao started off confident, strong, as he always did. Not deterred by Raiden’s words, he fought with precision and grace. Raiden, on the other hand, was more bold in this match than his last two. It was as if he were trying to match the confidence his friend had. 

Blow for blow, the two fought as if it were an intense dance. The spirit the two had did not waver, even as they chipped each other’s defenses. You had to remind yourself to breathe at times, captivated by the way they fought. It was almost like a performance with how it all went down.

All things had to come to an end, and just when you expected Kung Lao to overtake his fellow farmhand, your jaw dropped as Raiden sent Kung Lao toppling to the ground.

He had finally won.

“There’s a first time for everything, Kung Lao.” Raiden remarked. He helped Kung Lao up, who although baffled, accepted the help. You sensed the confusion and disappointment within the loser of the match. The monks all stood up and Liu Kang approached the two. You passed by the monks who were now dispersing, moving to step beside the god.

“Although you have all trained well, Raiden has excelled.” Liu Kang declared. “This outcome does not surprise me.” The god looked between the two, before looking back at you. You held up the box you had been entrusted with.

“How could I have-” Kung Lao muttered to himself, his head bowed as he lingered over his loss. You felt a twinge of pity for the man. He lifted his head, meeting your gaze before looking towards Raiden. “Congratulations Raiden.” He said, bowing respectfully. The rare hint of humbleness shone through his voice. 

“For the tournament, you will need this.” Liu Kang spoke, gesturing back to you. You lifted your hand, hesitating for a moment before you opened it. You froze as you saw the amulet within. An intricately carved amulet, the middle made of glass with a glowing dragon etched into it. It crackled with electricity. 

Raiden lifted it up, inspecting it, but you were lost in your mind.

That was the amulet you remembered. The very same amulet that…

Looking up, you froze as you saw a vision of an older Raiden. glancing down at the amulet. It was cracked and nearly shattered. The thunder god’s eyes glowed as they stared down. A grievous look was on his face.

You were in a cathedral of sorts, yet the scene around you was anything but holy. 

It smelt of death. In the distance, you saw the bodies of people you could only remember as allies, but in the state they were in, you could hardly recognize them. Guts were strewn about, blood was split. It all smelt eerily fresh, but you had no idea how they became that way.

Breath quickening, you glanced down. Tears instinctively filled your eyes as your hands grabbed at a person in your lap. Who was this? You hand moved to cup the cheek, wincing as you felt fresh blood coat your palm.

Her breath was shaky, and you couldn’t make out the words you were saying to her. Tears clouded your vision, dropping onto the face you couldn’t make out. Her hand grabbed yours, and you watched her lips move weakly.

What was she saying to you?

“Tell me Raiden, how will we honor their sacrifice!?” Liu Kang’s voice rang out, the only clear thing you could hear. It was angry, mocking, distressed. You looked up and around, trying to see where he was. Through your tears you could see him.

Liu Kang was mortal. Dressed in red and black, he did not have the grevious wounds and blood like the others did. He was clean and uninjured, much like you. You watched as he glared at Raiden who looked distraught. His intense glare looked over to you, and softened.

“Are you okay?”

Lightning crackled.

Flinching, you blinked, snapping out of your stupor. You sniffed, shaking your head. Your breath calmed as you looked around, remembering that you were here, in the Wu Shi academy. Not in a cathedral full of death and despair.

You avoided the concerned look Liu Kang sent your way, forcing a proud smile on your face. You watched as Raiden, with the amulet, continued to blast away at one of the four statues holding the middle arena up.

“Holy Ark of the Covenant!”

“It is incredible.” Raiden remarked, staring down at the amulet he held. You took in a deep breath, avoiding looking at the object in his hand, instead looking at the man himself. You swallowed, trying to nod encouragingly. “But is it necessary?”

“In addition to possessing great might, the Outworlders you will face also wield great magic.” Liu Kang stated, his eyes glancing towards you for a mere moment. “The amulet levels the playing field.” He told him. folding his hands together before returning his attention to you. You held your head up, trying to not show the weakness you had previously displayed.

“You must be careful, Raiden.” Kung Lao said, a concerned tone in his voice. He placed a hand on his friend’s shoulder, looking at him. “You could get hurt. Even killed!” You tensed up, the words sending panic through you.

“No tournament participant has ever been greviously injured or killed.” Liu Kang informed him. Yet, at the same time part of his words seemed to be directed towards you. Was he trying to reassure you as well? You figured it was better he assumed you were worried over Raiden than what you were actually freaking out over. “I would never send my champions unwittingly into mortal kombat.”

The words he spoke, though meant to be comforting, felt like a jab after what you remembered.

“We leave in seven days for Outworld’s capital, Sun Do.” Liu Kang spoke, and you once again had to snap yourself out of your stupor. “The tournament will be held at the Palace of Empress Sindel.” He said, and then he dismissed the four.

You stood there, watching as the four dispersed, not knowing what to or what do say after the frightening memory you had regained.

“Are you okay?” Liu Kang inquired, standing next to you. 

What should you do? Tell him the truth? Spill your heart out about the horror you witnessed, and the many worries you had about the memories you had? Tell him how you were confused and terrified why you had these memories?

You opened your mouth, swallowing nervously as you found it had become dry. You gripped the empty box, your mind bitterly reminding you of what had just lay inside. Your heart pounded, and you felt the urge to collapse.

“I was just worried for Raiden’s sake.” You lied, the words slipping out before you could think again. You watched as Liu Kang assessed your face, before he nodded. You couldn’t tell if he believed you or not, the glowing eyes he bore now much harder to read than the mortal ones.

“He will be fine, you have trained him well.” The fire god reassured you, a hand reaching out to touch your shoulder and to squeeze it comfortingly. You smiled at him, trying to ignore the pit of guilt and worry that built up in your stomach.

“I know.”

You didn’t know why you lied, nor why you felt like it was better that you did.

part eleven

[sinner-sunflower]

A HH Lucifer-centric AU 8/?

PART 1, PART 2, PART 3, PART 4, PART 5, PART 6, PART 7, PART 9, PART 10, PART 11, PART 12, PART 13, PART 14, PART 15, PART 16, PART 17, PART 18, PART 19, PART 20, PART 21, PART 22

I was going to make them reconcile but then decided last minute to just give more angst.

I'd like to think that the decades-long daddy issues warrant constant blowouts. Like redemption, working over it takes time.

We'll get there. Eventually.

(Lowkey projecting my daddy issues)

--------------------------------------------------

Maybe this was a bad idea.

Lucifer is standing in front of his daughter's bedroom door. He was so confident walking from his tower, wanting to resolve the current animosity Charlie has for him. Just thinking about getting yelled at and hearing he's hated by his own child is making him reconsider.

He knocks. No answer. He knocks again. And again. And again.

The king feels his eyes burning. Charlie doesn't want to talk to him and he's actually going to cry.

This is worse than any punishment Heaven has given me.

Surely Charlie wouldn't care if he just up and disappeared without saying goodbye, right? The Alastor in his head telling him that Charlie doesn't hate him is wrong and maybe she's just out and can you just be quiet for once, how are you still so talkative in my head???

Yes, yes. He should go now. He needs to find her as soon as possible. All of hell is in danger and definitely not because confrontation scares him. He's the fucking king-

Charlie: Dad?

Lucifer turned so fast towards the voice, that it made him a bit dizzy.

Told you, Your Majesty. He can hear the smugness of brain-conjured Alastor. Prick.

Lucifer: Charlieeeee!!!! Haha. What uh, what are you doing here?

He cringes. 10,000 years and he's still so shit at talking. This is his daughter Fatherdamnit!

Charlie: Uh. It's my room? Were you,,, looking for me?

He wants to conjure up a portal and run but Charlie's face is beaming with hope. He'd take every hate in the world before hurting his daughter further.

Lucifer: Y-yes! I was just about to knock. Ha- I uhm.

There was an awkward pause before they both spoke up at the same time.

Charlie: Can we talk about the other day?

Lucifer: I'm leaving, Charlie.

The father and daughter stood stunned. Charlie was the first to recover, sporting now a devastated, desperate look.

Charlie: What?! You're leaving??

Lucifer: It's related to the whole Roo situation. I need to leave soon but I didn't want to go without telling you. It might take me a while that's why... until my return, you'll be handling Pride in my stead. The other Sins will look after hell, you just have to focus on Pride.

Charlie: No! Dad, you can't be serious. You're leaving me again?

Lucifer: What? No! Charlie. I need to do this or hell will-

Charlie: Is this really about Hell? You never cared before, Mom was the one who cared about our home and our people. Have I done something?

Lucifer: Charlie, no, of course not-

Charlie: Then why do you keep running away from me?! Why do you keep leaving?...

He was right. I should've just left.

What's happening? Is this Roo's doing? Why do they keep fighting? Why do they keep hurting each other?

The eyes on the hotel walls are judging him.

Lucifer: I don't. Charlie, you have to understand. I've never- Your mother and I- You-.... I'm sorry. I don't have the right words.

Lucifer reaches out to touch his sobbing daughter, but he pulls his hand back. He doesn't deserve to touch her.

His phone dings with a message from Belphegor.

Text from Bel: Good evening, Lucifer. Please come by Sloth before you leave for Earth. Something-

He doesn't read it all before sending a confirmation to Bel.

Lucifer: Time is not on our side, Charlie. If I wasn't sure that this being would help immensely, I wouldn't bother leaving to look for them. Even if you think otherwise, I trust you with Pride and its duties. I.. I'm not good with words but- just know. The greatest gift by Father is having you as my daughter.

Charlie looks up at him, tears still falling from her eyes.

Lucifer: Love ya, kiddo.

Then he disappears in a flurry of red and gold.

----------------------------------

What to look for in Part 9:

it will be a Charlie chapter after Lucifer leaves.

[skzhua]

omg, I just watched a funny video of a boyfriend and girlfriend playing a prank on their group of friends. The boyfriend asks the group of friends to help him propose to the girlfriend, when it was finally time to propose after organizing everything she declines (both are in on it, but the friends are not), and the prank continues with the gf leaving while the bf stays crying to their friends. Since April fools is coming up can I request something like that with any skz member proposing to their gf in front of the other members?? 😭 you can make it as fluffy funny or as “angsty” as you want, if you can!! 🤗 thank youuu

MASTERLIST

Pairing: Kim Seungmin x Female!Reader

Genre: Angst, fluff, idol!AU.

Word Count: 3,111

Warnings: Swearing. (not proofread yet!)

A/N: I'm a tad bit late, but I have essays due this week (school is literally killing me, smh..) so I'm not sorry, I just didn't have the time, haha. I hope you like it, I tried to follow what you requested, but it was kind of tricky for me.

"NO FUCKING WAY!"

"Gosh, Han!" Hyunjin exclaimed, blocking his ears with his hands from the sudden noise that is Jisung's scream.

"I fucking knew it! I could tell you were going to do it soon!" Jisung ignored his friend, still being noisy. "Am I the best man?" he smirked at Seungmin.

The latter pinched the bridge of his nose with two fingers. He knew the boys would be reacting very strongly when he was going to announce he wanted to propose to you, but he still didn't expect them to be so stoked.

"I'm asking you to help me propose! Not to help me plan a wedding that I don't even know is going to happen," he shook his head in discouragement.

Chan frowned as he stood up. "I have one question." Seungmin turned to him, encouraging him to continue. "Are you sure about this? This is a huge commitment, you know?"

"I've been with her for years, it's not like I didn't think about it."

"What did you have in mind for the setting?" Jeongin asked. "Oh, can I plan that out?"

To this, Felix raised his hand. "I want to do that."

Shutting his eyes, Seungmin let himself drop back on the couch as the boys kept on bickering. Changbin insisted on a nice outside proposal, while Hyunjin and Felix were strongly defending the idea of an engagement at a restaurant. Seeing the man on the verge of killing himself internally from the mess he had created, Minho walked to Seungmin before sitting next to him. As expected, he hadn't said a word since the subject was brought up. Until now.

"Congratulations."

Seungmin shrugged. "I haven't asked her yet."

"She'll say yes. The girl would literally jump off a bridge if you tell her to do so," he chuckled. "If you want my opinion, go with something simple. No need to go over the top."

"Thanks, Minho."

"I have an idea!" Chan exclaimed, eyes wide open. "Remember when we all went to the aquarium and the two of you ran away from us because we were too loud?"

"Yeah..?" Seungmin said, briefly getting a picture of the memory.

"Propose to her there! It's a nice place, not too many people if you choose the day and time properly, and it brings you back to a nice moment you had together!"

Seungmin hummed. "Actually, this is an excellent idea."

"Good morning!" you beamed at your boyfriend upon seeing him half asleep.

He groaned, still tired, as he sat down at the table in your apartment. Rubbing his eyes, he sniffed in the air before frowning.

"Babe, since when do you actually make pancakes with eggs and bacon?"

You shurgged. "Am I not allowed to treat my boyfriend well? Especially if he's about to propose in the following week?" you said nonchalantly, but that's all it took for Seungmin to jump up on his feet and stare at you with eyes wide open.

"What did you just say?"

"That I want to treat my boyfr-"

"The other part."

You snickered at him, devilishly. "You want to propose to me in the following week."

In an instant, his face turned completely white. "Who told you that?" he huffed, trying to act as if this was nonsense.

"Jeongin. Then I asked Jisung to confirm. And just to be sure, I asked Changbin after." you smiled. "Either they are all lying, or you really wanted to take me to the aquarium to propose."

Seungmin had no words. He was barely processing what you had just said. Weeks of planning, buying the ring, asking the guys to organize a nice set up, making calls here and there to go to a nice restaurant beforehand... All of his hard work thrown in the trash because his friends couldn't keep their mouth shut.

"Do I kill them or do I kill them?" he ended up mumbling, smoke coming out of his nostrils.

You walked around the counter, not forgetting to turn off the stove, before coming right in front of Seungmin. "Babe, it's alright. We had already talked about it before and we both know that's what we want." you pecked his lips, but he pouted. "Seungmin..." you sighed.

"I was sure you were going to say yes, don't get me wrong, but the surprise is still ruined."

He held you closer in his arms, and you pat his back in a soothing way. Seungmin would usually be laughing at these kinds of situations, so you knew he was definitely crushed by how he couldn't do his proposal properly.

"If it makes you feel any better, we can still go to the aquarium? I've already indirectly told you yes, so might as well celebrate it?"

That seemed to do the trick as he nodded happily before bringing you into a sweet kiss. "I have a great idea." he smirked after the kiss.

Your smile fell. Seungmin never had good ideas when he'd say he has one.

"What are you thinking of?"

What you didn't expect was to see the whole gang assembled in front of the building. You got a déjà vu from the time you left the boys behind with Seungmin because they were being chaotic as per usual. Seungmin was holding tight onto your hand, giving you some reassurance. You hated participating in his bad decisions, but you had to admit that the guys kind of deserved it.

"Guys, what are you doing here?" Seungmin sighed as you joined the group.

"We came for some support!" Felix exclaimed.

Changbin hit him with his elbow, giving him a death stare. "Emotional support from fishes." he justified.

Good saving Changbin.

"Sure..." Seungmin sighed. "Shall we go, Y/N?"

He led you inside. As he had planned, there was barely any people inside. He bought the tickets as you started to explore the place. The first thing you spotted were jellyfishes. You let go of Seungmin and ran to the tank. You felt like a child really, but the fluorescence of the animals were only too beautiful to not react this way. Seungmin came behind you and placed his hand on your hip before putting his chin on your shoulder.

"It's pretty." he commented. "Just like you."

You laughed at his word. "Well, well... Aren't you being sweet today, Minnie?"

"I'm always sweet." he pecked your cheek.

Laughs interrupted your moment. With a sighed, you looked to where the noise was coming from only to see the seven boys look your way.

"I swear to God, I'll kill them." Seungmin huffed in a whisper. "But it's good they're watching. They kind of have to if we want this to work."

"You're so evil." you rolled your eyes.

"I know, that's why you love me."

You moved along along and got to the tank were you could touch the sea cucumbers and the starfishes. You dragged Seungmin behind and encouraged him to touch the animals with you. He wasn't in for it much, but he eventually thought it was rather funny. Anything for you, if it meant you were happy. Soon, you went through a tunnel were small sharks species were swimming around. Seeing your uneasiness, Seungmin pulled you closer to him to make you feel that you had some sort of protection.

"I feel like I'm underwater." you mumbled. "It's so weird."

Moving forward, you then arrived the place you were looking forward to the least: the tropical fishes tank. This was the spot the guys and Seungmin chose for the proposal. Oddly enough, he did prepare everything. There was a letter on the glass of the tank attached by some tape. Curious, you approached it slowly.

"Why is there my name on this?" you laughed nervously to Seungmin, who only gave you a small smile in return.

You took the piece of paper and unfolded it to see, in a beautiful handwriting, a love letter. You turned to your boyfriend, confused since he hadn't told you about this detail beforehand.

"Go ahead, read it."

Still on your guards, your eyes went back to the writing. The moment you started to read, you actually wanted to cry.

My dear Y/N,

I know we haven't had the best moments together. It was mostly rough, filled with uncertainty as we explored our relationship. We've been together for a lot while, no? It still feels like yesterday when we went on our first date. I still can feel the blush you were putting on my cheeks that day.

Thank you for agreeing with my weird ideas. Thank you for keeping up with, not only me, but the boys too. Thank you for staying around although I know being away on tour can be hard for you. Most importantly, thank you for loving me.

I love you the most, and I wish us the best future together.

Your Minnie.

By then, Seungmin had wrapped his arms around you as you dropped a few tears. Along with your sniffs, you melted into his embrace lovingly as you murmured sweet words and thanks. He truly was your everything.

So when he put his knee down, you sobbed even more. How could you refuse to marry him like this, even while being aware this was all an act? The boys came closer, but still gave you some space, so they could watch from afar.

"Y/N, this is something we have been discussing for a while now. I love you so much and it would pain me if I never get to spend the rest of my days with you." Seungmin started, looking up at you.

You hoped the love and sincerity you saw in his eyes were raw and not faked for the show. You knew Seungmin better than this, and he was being genuine. If anything, he couldn't lie to you in your face. You were too precious for that.

"So..." he trailed off while taking out a small box from his pocket. "F/N, will you do me the pleasure of marrying me?"

As he opened the box, your gaze went straight to the ring. He picked the perfect one. Although it had a lot of small details, it remained simple with the small diamond on top of it. You didn't know you could cry more than this.

"I-" you started, but stopped yourself as you remembered what you needed to do. "I love you, Seungmin... But I can't..."

You heard gasps coming from the boys and quiet whispers, as they were clearly confused. Although you had planned of walking away, you did so only because you couldn't bear with Seungmin's face who had dropped instantly. Either he was an excellent actor, or you had truly hurt him. So you left, leaving his letter behind as you dropped it in front of him.

"I got you an ice cream." Jeongin said in a sad tone as he came back from the ice cream shop nearby.

The boys had left the aquarium not so long after you, and they moved to the park next to it. Jeongin had offered himself to get everyone a treat, but especially for the broken-hearted man

"Thank you, Innie." Seungmin said as he took the cone from him.

"I was sure she was going to say yes." Jisung muttered under his breath.

"We were all sure." Chan added. "She only refused the proposal, though, maybe she is simply not ready for such a commitment?"

Minho deadpanned at him. "They've been together for like, what, five years? She was already committed to him enough that there is no logic in her refusing, don't you think?"

"You can't be certain. What is she simply doesn't want to get married?"

"Nonsense." Felix joined in. "I've heard them talk about it before, and she told him about her dream wedding dress and shit."

"Alright, then. Did they fight?" Hyunjin questioned, but Changbin huffed in response.

"Did they look like they fought to you when they got here?" he rolled his eyes.

"Guys, it's alright." Seungmin stopped them. "Don't act like I'm not here."

They all quickly apologized, and then kept quiet. They weren't exactly sure what to say, they have never witnessed such a devastating moment before. They even less expected for it to happen to Seungmin.

"Are you doing alright?" Jeongin dared to ask.

Seungmin shrugged. "I don't feel good, for sure. It's like I haven't processed what happened yet."

Seungmin was rarely sad. Most of the boys didn't know how to react to this, especially when it was such a big turn of event that caused it. Changbin debated internally whether he should call you or not, at least to get an explanation out of you. Still, the main focus was on Seungmin.

"What are you going to do now?" Jisung, who had surprisingly remained rather quiet the entire time, asked.

"We can go back home, I guess. I don't know..."

"Wait for her call." Hyunjin said, putting a hand on his shoulder. "She'll call you for sure. In the meantime, try to get some rest."

He thanked his friends truthfully. He didn't expect this whole thing to actually hurt him. Still, he wanted to scare the shit out of the guys, and it all seemed to be working perfectly. But it became too much.

"It was a joke, guys." he finally admitted.

Hyunjin took his hand off him and stared widely at Chan. The others were as stunned, as they gave him a look of confusion.

"Care to explain, please?" Felix broke the awkward silence that was settling.

Seungmin sighed, a lump in his throat. "Y/N told me that Jeongin, Jisung and Changbin had ruined the surprise. I was so mad and disappointed that I had the stupid idea of pulling a prank on you. So basically, her refusing to marry me was the plan, but I'm starting to think it wasn't as funny as I originally anticipated it to be."

Changbin gave him an apologetic smile. "We're sorry for ruining it all. She said she would fake her surprise face, but it looks like you two got us." he laughed out.

"Seungmin, this is very wrong, you know that? We're sorry it didn't go as planned, but I don't think Y/N was faking her tears earlier." Chan sighed loudly.

"I know that." Seungmin groaned, putting his face in his hands, not holding back tears anymore. "And it actually hurt me when she said she couldn't, even though I was the one who told her to say this. I feel like shit."

Jeongin, who had dialed a number on his phone, put it away in his pocket as he shook his head. "She's not answering my calls."

"Go see her." Minho assured. "Talk it out with her, I'm sure you can figure this out."

Back in your apartment, you had changed into sweatpants and opened a pot of ice cream to eat in front of the television. This was so cliché, but you didn't care. You were genuinely hurting, and it seemed to be the only way to cope for now. Your phone rang again, signaling that one of the guys, most likely Changbin or Jeongin, had texted you yet again. Ignoring the calls, you simply increased the volume of your movie as tears were dripping out of your eyes. As the characters on the screen were in the middle of a dialogue, you heard a soft knock coming from the door.

"Busy." you yelled out, eyes still focused on the TV.

Another knock.

"Come back later."

One more.

You huffed as you put away your snack, getting up to look at the peephole. Seungmin... there he was. Standing at your front door, eyes swollen and a bit red. Though you were mad at him for the whole prank thing, he was still the love of your life, and seeing him like this pained you.

You unlocked the door and opened it, to his shock. He looked up at you and gave you a weak smile.

"Hey."

"Hi."

He took a deep breath. "Can I come in?"

"Baby, I'm so sorry for what happened." he mumbled.

You let him in and he walked upon your ice cream with your TV on. That's when he turned to you to take a better look at your appearance. You looked as much of a mess as him, maybe more, and it only made him feel worse.

You shrugged your shoulders, trying to play it cool. "All good. How did they react?"

"It doesn't matter."

You frowned. "Wasn't it the whole point of your idea?"

"Yes, but it was probably the worst idea I've ever had."

You cocked your head to the side, taken aback from his words. "You've had worse ideas than that, what do you mean?"

"Don't play dumb, Y/N." he said, started to get frustrated. "I hurt you."

"I mean, yeah, a little. But it was all fake, no?"

"Everything I said was true. Everything in that damn letter." he said as he pulled it out of his pocket. "It was all true. Because, guess what? I am insanely obsessed with you. The mere thought of losing you over this stupid ass plan destroyed me. Just ask any of the guys, I was a mess after you left."

"Obviously, you were acting and-"

"Love, I wasn't faking that. I told them the truth right away."

"Oh." you nodded your head slowly. "Just so you know, it did break my hurt refusing to marry you."

He smiled warmly, coming closer to you. "I know, and I'm sorry baby."

Your tears came back in your eyes as you pulled him in your embrace. "Don't fucking make me do this again."

"I won't, I promise."

He pulled away from you and wiped your tears with the hem of his sleeve. "While we're at it." he breathed out.

You observed him as he did the same motion as earlier that day. Putting a knee down, he took out the same box as he stared right back at your teary eyes.

"This is all sincere, I promise. I can't express how much you mean to me and I can't imagine a life where you are not by my side." he said before opening the little box, exposing the shining ring. "Will you marry me?"

"Fuck yes." you sobbed out.

He got up instantly before crashing his lips onto yours. You wrapped your arms around his neck to deepen the kiss. It had a hint of saltiness because of your tears, but it only added to how meaningful it was.

"I love you too." you cried out while he put the ring around your finger. "But I hate you so fucking much."

"I know, baby."

taglist: @lenilla15 | @muddy-waters | @nanaspalette | @nattisbored | @popcatx0 | @vanblack95 | @aestheticsluut | @thanxxskz | @minhoino | @taetertotsv | @luvscrazy

Copyright © 2023 skzhua. All rights reserved.

[sighs-deeply-and-dreadfully]

Hi!! I have a small request that can either be in drabble or hc format (it makes no different to me) for a GN!reader that is touch sensitive? Certain textures just give them the ick and leave them overwhelmed. (Think having your flooring be all stone and having to walk on it bumps and all without any breaks or changes in texture. It would get annoying and uncomfortable) So they avoid touch like its the plague when it comes to their neighbors because they sometimes just feel 'gross' in a sense, sometimes to fuzzy, others to scratchy, or sometimes just too alive (*eyes wally*)

Kept it semi-vauge, so you can go ham on your own interpretation of it, hoping to see what you will produce if you find this interesting :]

-🌼

OH REAL. REAL REAL. I’ve got touch based sensory issues myself (along with “contamination anxiety”? Akin to the ‘gross’ part you mentioned HAHA), that shit slaps (as in it slaps me, daily) /neg /lhj !!

Thank you for the request though >:] I hope what I write satisfies!!

Felt Fingers

Welcome Home x GN!Reader with a Touch Sensitive Reader!

Headcanon format, relation(s) are platonic!

When you moved into the sleepy neighbourhood, you had already geared up for your usual “new people routine”.

If they went to touch, you’d curl away— nervously chattering off that you’d prefer to not be. Some understood immediately, others took it personal— grew defensive, and then some were simply confused. You had grown used to the reactions, and you were ready!

…After all, you were meeting.. quite a few new people, quite fast, today!—

You had been taken on a tour of the town by no other than Wally Darling, who— to your unspoken relief— was not the touchy type. At least not with a very new friend. Instead, he held his hands clasped neatly behind his back.

Some of the other neighbours were, though— specifically one by the name of Julie Joyful, the first one you were pulled up to meet.

When Wally acquainted you both to one another, she rushed in for a friendly hug— only to be left confused, head tilted when you back stepped.

Ah, here we go..

You chattered off, nervously tugging at the edge of your sleeve— but she soon perked up, like a light bulb had clicked over her head.

“Ohhh..! Okay!! No worries!” She beamed at you, “I’ll keep that in mind!!- Sorry! Haha-“

Wally watched the interaction silently, also taking note of it.

Next up was Frank Frankly, who wasn’t very far off from Julie. As of current, he was crouched near what seemed to be colourful milkweed, watching a butterfly of some kind intently.

You watched as Wally slid up behind him, not really making any noise before he hummed.

“What’re you up to, Frank..?”

The reaction was immediate, some gruff, garbled spew of confusion quickly followed— before Frank huffed.

Soon, though, you were being introduced. Frank held out his hand for a handshake, and you declined with a weak smile.

He didn’t seem bothered, just nodding and lowering his hand.

Soon, you were moving onto the next person; Howdy Pillar.

As you both walked into the cooled down store, Howdy warmly greeted you from the counter— immediately taking note of you.

“Oh! Hey! Is this th’ new neighbour you were talking about, Wally?”

Upon confirmation, his attention slid to you with a warm smile. He introduced himself, and held out one of his four arms for a shake— leading to another decline.

You watched his head tilt in confusion momentarily before he gave a quick, understanding smile.

“Just not in the mood?” He asked, voice softened— he didn’t seem upset. You simply just explained the boundary, as you had been all day, and he nodded along.

“Alright! Got’cha, neighbour!”

As Wally pulled open the glass door, the little bell hung above going off, Howdy would wish you both “a swell rest of the day!”

And you were off!

For just a moment, before a large, blue dog strolled up.

He was soon introduced to you as Barnaby B. Beagle.

He didn’t reach out for a handshake, instead just sort of giving you a small wave with his large paw, paired with a cheeky grin.

“ ‘ello.” [Hello]

Wally and he seemed to catch up for a moment, before Barnaby somewhat.. patted his head. Wally simply stared, still smiling— and a non-hostile look!.. He just.. didn’t react very much.

And, soon, you were being whisked to the next neighbour; Sally Starlet.

You found her atop a rickety built stage, seemingly warming up her voice— speaking loud and proud, from the chest!

.. Before she noticed you both, of course.

Soon, almost in the blink of an eye, she was in front of both of you— smiling.

“Hello!! Hello!! Is this the new neighbour?” She absolutely beamed as she spoke, to which Wally calmly nodded.

Ecstatically, she’d take your hands in hers— giving them a shake as she began to introduce herself— before Wally cleared his throat.

“They.. don’t like to be touched.”

Ah. Agh. Agagghhhfhh.

You smiled at her, though strained, trying to discretely wipe your hands off on your pants once she had (quite quickly) let your hands go.

Very quickly, she was apologetic— seeming concerned.

“Oh— shoot!- I should’ve asked, first, my bad!!- Are you alright?”

Very quickly things had become a notch more overwhelming, but you’d be fine.. you’d be fine, just had to trudge through..

You nodded, giving her a weak smile and reassuring her you were fine.

Your hands felt tingly, and it felt like she was still squeezing them with the scratchy felt and— auuggjhdhr. hhrhrhrr.

She introduced herself far more calmly, still holding an apologetic smile.

Soon, yet again, you were off— quick to run into what seemed to be the neighbourhood’s mailman!

He gave you a warm, chipper smile as he introduced himself as Eddie Dear, but he was quick to move on.

“It’s a delight to meet you, neighbour, but I gotta get goin’!! Have a good day though, you two!!“

And with that, he was gone! A brief introduction after the one with Sally was a relief, and soon you and Wally were left in silence— walking up to one of the houses this time.

“.. How are you feeling, neighbour?”

His voice lulled through the silence, and you perked up. You answer was pretty curt, but polite! You liked the neighbours, but you were still awfully tired from moving…

“That’s good. Don’t worry, there’s.. just one.. left.”

Though his voice was flat, you could tell it was supposed to be reassurance (or, you at least took it as such) as you nodded.

And, soon, you dawned upon the Final Neighbour; Poppy Partridge!

As Wally knocked on the door, she soon pulled it open— staring down at the both of you with kind eyes.

“Ah.. hello..!! You’re— the new neighbour, I’d take it?”

Her voice held a nervous ring, though friendly! With confirmation, you introduced yourself— and she smiled.

“It’s— it’s a pleasure to meet you, dear..” She then glanced back into her home, before back to you. “I— I made a few treats, for you! If you’d- like one, of course!”

You accepted, might as well, and she soon handed you what seemed to be a few freshly baked cookies wrapped up in cloth. Your hands made brief contact, making you tense again, but her soft, feathery hands didn’t get to you— tttoo badly. You still felt that familiar drip of discomfort slide down your neck and throughout your back, but it passed.

She seemed to notice, though, and her gaze instantly flooded with concern.

“Oh, dear.. are- you okay, neighbour? Do you feel well? Are you sick-? Do—“

Before she could continue nervously rattling off what may be the matter, you nodded, and— with a smidge of hesitance— took the chance to properly state the boundary to her.

“Oh— oh! Of course,.. I’m sorry,” She held a small smile, “I’ll keep that in mind, sweetheart..”

And, soon, after wrapping up conversation with the sweet bird, you and Wally were headed back to your own home.

“.. So..” You could feel his intent gaze start burrowing into your face. “.. How was that, neighbour?”

GRAAAHHHHHHH I WROTE THIS IN ONE SITTING RAAAAH /lhj HAHA!!

I hope it’s satisfactory!!! Thank you for requesting >:] /g

Have not proof read!! Will do so laterrr!!!!!

[jessicaloons]

Chapter 30:

It was the end of a decade, but the start of an age

Masterlist - Previous - Next

After the tyre tests were done I only had to attend one last sponsoring event for Audi, before it was time to prepare for the FIA Prize Giving Ceremony in Bologna. I browsed through the internet, looking for inspirations, while Shima sent me dress after dress.

"Okay, now come on! I’ve sent you a dozen of beautiful dresses! You seriously wanna tell me there’s not one you like?" she sighed and I shook my head.

"I’m sorry! But… god Shima this is fucking important! It’s not just an Insta post here or a picture snapped of us at the paddock there! It’s an official event! A red carpet event! It’s broadcasted! There will be photographers! Everyone will see the pictures! It has to be perfect. Everything. The dress. My make-up. My hair. Everything!" I groaned and Shima chuckled "I really don’t know what’s so funny…"

"Nothing! Let’s focus on a dress, okay? So, you said you don’t care about the designer?"

"Not at all… but umm- okay. I thought about something… I want a red dress."

"Red? Really?" Shima asked and I saw her eyes widen on the screen.

"Yeah… I know I would usually never wear such a strong colour! But it’s our first official appearance and I want to show everyone that… that- you know…" I stuttered a little.

"You want to show everyone that that’s your man and you’re wearing his colour. Got it. Okay. Well I haven’t picked out any red dresses, but I will have a look and sent them to you. Really red?" she grinned and I rolled my eyes.

"Yes red!"

"Okay, I got you! Cleavage? No cleavage? Lace? Tulle? Flowy skirt or more tight?"

"Umm- not too much cleavage? Not too tight? I don’t care about the fabric! Just not too much and over the top. Still me kinda, despite that’s its red."

"Okay. I’ll find something. So I talked to Joris the other day…" she began and I chuckled.

"You talked to Joris… interesting…"

"Haha very funny. Anyways. He told me that Charles goes above and beyond for your Christmas presents… oh to be the girlfriend of a multi millionaire athlete…"

"What do you mean, with Christmas presents? Presents, plural?" I groaned.

"Well he bought or planned a few things…"

"Planned? As in activities?"

"Planned as in vacation."

"Great! I seriously have no idea what to buy him! Because as you already mentioned, he’s a multi millionaire! Everything I thought about kinda sucks! And now you tell me that he’s planned a vacation and has at least one more present…"

"Oh I think it’s more than just one more… not helpful… sorry."

"I can’t give him another vacation, when the one I got him for his birthday didn’t even happen yet!" I sighed leaning back.

"Oh yeah, you’re secret little getaway you didn’t tell me more about!" Shima looked at me, trying her best attempt at puppy eyes.

"Okay! Okay! I tell you! So basically after Christmas, when the rest will fly to Costa Rica, Charles and I will fly for 4 days to Iceland, over New Year’s Eve. There are these super luxurious but cozy cabins, with a glass ceiling, so you can lay in bed and watch the northern lights over you…" I practically beamed but Shima choked up.

"New Year’s Eve? Like this New Year’s Eve?" she asked and I nodded.

"Yeah of course this New Year’s Eve? What’s going on?" I looked at her confused.

"Oh, you won’t like that…" her look was sinister.

"We have to talk." I sat down, handing Charles a fork.

"Oh oh. There comes never something good after that…" he looked at me, cautiously, stirring his food.

"It’s nothing bad!" I chuckled a little.

"Okay? What’s going on?"

"It’s about New Year’s Eve…" I began and he almost choked on his pasta.

"What about New Year’s Eve?" he sounded panicked and I laughed.

"Well, it seems like my birthday present for you and your upcoming Christmas present number 1 for me, and we have to talk about the fact that it’s just one from how many exactly, but that’s not the point now, the point is, we had the same idea…"

"What do you mean? Same idea? And no we’re not discussing the amount of presents I got you…but yeah. Same idea how? And how do you know?" he was confused.

"Thankfully our best friends are talking behind our backs to each other… Joris told Shima that you booked us a romantic cabin in Iceland for New Year’s Eve and she told me that because I just had told her that I did the same… and because it would be a waste of money, we have to cancel one booking…" I chuckled a little.

"No way? You stole my idea?" Charles pouted.

"Excuse you? I gave it to you first! So you stole my idea!"

"You only gave it to me first because my birthday is before Christmas!"

"That’s not…" I began but he raised an eyebrow "Okay. Technically you’re right. But still. We have to cancel one trip."

"Okay. But can we eat first and then decide?" he grabbed his fork again and twirled some spaghetti.

"It’s easy. Yours! It was my birthday gift for you. I had nothing else! And you seem to have more than one gift for me for Christmas. So you will cancel your booking."

"No? We will discuss that later…" he looked at me intently and I sighed.

"Fine…" we will definitely take my booking.

"I know that look! We will discuss it later!" he chuckled and I sighed.

"Okay…"

"Did you find a dress with Shima?" Charles asked after a while and I nodded "Yeah? How does it look?"

"You’ll see it in four days." I tried to say it nonchalantly but he sensed it immediately, looking at me "I’m just a little nervous, it’s all good, tho."

"Whatever you’ll wear, you’ll look gorgeous!" he took my hand in his and kissed the back of it "I have absolutely no doubt."

I smiled a little, hoping he was right.

Charles POV:

I sat on the sofa, scrolling through my phone, listening to the bustling coming out of the bedroom. I heard faint cursing and put my phone down.

"Are you okay in there, cara mia?" I asked and got up, walking towards the door.

"Yeah. Sure. Just need a minute and I’ll be out." she said breathlessly.

"Okay…" I chuckled and sat back down.

"I don’t know if the dress was the right choice…I don’t know if it was a good idea to think that I don’t need a stylist or hair and make up person…" she mumbled.

"Hair and make up person?" I laughed.

"Yeah a hair dresser and make-up artist… you know what I mean." she puffed out.

"I’m sure you look…" I began just to be interrupted by her, stepping out of the bedroom. I got up. Looking her up and down and was at a loss of words. She was stunning. The most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen. But it was the look on her face that made her shine. She looked almost shy. Unsure. As if she wasn’t aware of how beautiful she was "Cara mia…"

"Is it okay? Red was maybe the wrong choice? I thought it would be nice, you know, wearing red for you. Showing how proud I am of you, what you’ve achieved this season. But now I’m not so sure that it’s not maybe too much? It is too much, right? And it also shows a lot of skin! What was I thinking! God! I have a black back-up dress, give me a minute. Maybe I should do something with my hair as well, not just open like that? Yeah. I change it as well." she rambled and I gently cupped her cheeks.

"You, cara mia, look like a goddess. You look more than beautiful. And that dress? That stays on! That will only leave your body tonight, when we’re back, and I’ll rip it off of you…" I said and she blushed.

"Are you sure? I don’t want to… I don’t want people to look at me and think…"

"Stop. Whatever you’re about to say. Stop. I can guarantee you, there is no one looking more beautiful and perfect than you tonight. You look magnifique… umm… magnificent!" I kissed her plush lips carefully, to not smudge her lipstick "And now let’s go. I want to see everyone’s jaw drop to the floor, knowing that I’m the one you’re there with and later going home with." I grabbed her hand and she giggled sweetly.

"Okay…" she whispered and then looked around "Where’s my clutch…" she grabbed a little bag and then smiled at me "Let’s go."

We clapped as Max walked up the stage and I saw how Lizzie looked at me, an encouraging smile on her lips. I was happy for Max, but of course I would’ve love to make the final step myself, winning the trophy Max was holding now.

"I’m sorry, Charles. That could’ve been you if things would’ve worked out better…" she leaned into me and I smiled, tilting her face towards mine.

"I have won the most beautiful prize there is to win this year… I’ve got you!" I answered and she was blushing adorably "No trophy, no award, no title will ever make me as happy as having you by my side, cara mia!" I leaned in and kissed her softly, leaving her breathless "But next year? Next year I would love to add another trophy to my cabinet!" I chuckled, nodding towards Max and the WDC trophy.

"You will. I just know it." she said and intertwined our hands "2023 will be your year."

"I hope so. And if not, I still got you by my side."

"Always and forever." she kissed my cheek and we looked back up on the stage again.

I got a sign from one of the organisers that it was time for me to present an award and I got up, kissing Lizzie’s head.

"I’ll be right back…" I winked at her and she made an adorable confused face, her nose scrunching up a little. I followed the guy backstage where he fitted a microphone around my head and I waited at the stage entry, watching the hosts calling out my name, the crowd applauded and I entered the stage, looking for Lizzie, who looked at me with big eyes.

"Hello everyone. This years award for the Rookie of the year goes to a very special driver, who showed her remarkable talent on track, from finishing on the podium in her first race, to continue winning two races over the course of the year, ending her first season as fourth in the driver standings. Everyone who closely followed our winners career over the years knows that she’s not just one of the most talented drivers of our generation, but also one of the most resilient, disciplined, hard working and outstanding ones. She never gave up her dream of becoming a Formula 1 driver, although she had to surpass obstacles none of us can even fathom. Nothing could stop her on her way and I’m more than proud to stand here tonight, not only presenting this award to an astonishing young driver, but also to my beautiful and amazing girlfriend. Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome our Rookie of the year 2022 award winner, Lizzie Doetterer!" I held my speech and as the room began to applaud I looked at Lizzie, how she nervously smiled and got up, making her way up the stage, a woman handed me the trophy and Lizzie a microphone. As soon as she stood in front of me I gave her the trophy which she accepted with shaking hands. She then looked up at me and I couldn’t hold back, pulling her in by the waist, kissing her. Just a small, innocent kiss, but she blushed nevertheless and I was 100% sure I heard Max wolf whistle. When I pulled away I squeezed her hand gently and nodded towards the audience. Lizzie took a deep breath.

"Thank you so much. Winning this award is a big honour, it really means a lot. Our team had an amazing season, it’s been a really great year for us. It wasn’t always easy, we had our ups and downs, but I think in the end we managed quite well, for a rookie team. I really want to thank the Audi Sports board, for taking a chance on me. Felix Bayer for his trust and confidence in me, Pete Wirth for being my calming voice of reason during the race, Valtteri for helping me adjust and giving me advice throughout the season. Everyone who’s part of this amazing team, thank you so much, we achieved this together! Thank you to the amazing Audi fans! Your support over the season meant everything! Thank you to my family and friends for always supporting me, for quite some time now, thank you Pops for travelling with me as often as you can, all the way back since 2003! And one last thank you to this guy here, Charles. I have no words to describe how much your love and support means to me. I wouldn’t be standing here tonight, if it wasn’t for you and your undying faith in me. You never gave up, always believed that I would make it into Formula 1, even when I had almost given up, you were always by my side, through the ups and downs! Thank you." Lizzie looked at me and I saw the tears in her eyes, the audience clapped again and I pulled her in my arms, hugging her tight before we left the stage together. Someone took the microphone from her and I unclasped the one attached around my head and I smiled at her.

"You didn’t tell me that you were presenting this award!" she playfully hit my shoulder and I laughed.

"Well, I wanted to surprise you!"

"It was a nice surprise." she smiled

"It was an honor to present this award to you, no one deserves it more than you!"

"Oh stop getting all sappy on me."

"Never."

I walked inside the flower shop, waiting in line to pick up the bouquets Lizzie ordered when my phone rang.

"Hi." I picked up the FaceTime call but was greeted with the empty kitchen "Cara mia?" I heard rustling from somewhere and Lizzie walked in the frame.

"Hey, did you pick up the bouquets?" she asked while peeling some carrots.

"I’m in the flower shop right now."

"Oh, okay. Good." she walked out of the frame again "Hey, when will everyone arrive again?" she looked up.

"You said everyone should come around 5 and at 6 we’re eating." I replied and her eyes widened "I’m almost done here and then I’m coming over, helping you, okay?"

"No! I’m fine! It’s all good." she said although I could clearly see that she was lying "You pick them up from the airport. I cook. It’s all going to be fine."

"Okay, but cara mia if you need help, call me, okay? Hey! Look at me!"

"I’m fine, Charles, but when I need you help I’m calling you!" she sighed, looking at me.

"Okay, see you later then." I smiled and she nodded before she hung up.

I smiled as a young boy looked at me with big eyes.

"Are you Charles Leclerc?" he asked and I nodded "So cool! Can I take a picture with you?"

"Sure." I smiled at him and he poked his mother’s arm.

"Take a picture of us, mummy! That’s Charles Leclerc!" he beamed at her and she smiled taking a picture of us "Everyone will be so jealous! Thank you so much!"

"No worries! Merry Christmas!" I waved him goodbye as he and his mother left.

"You’re Charles Leclerc?" The girl behind the counter asked and I nodded "Then I guess these bouquets are for you, or rather your girlfriend!" she smiled and grabbed two bouquets from the table behind her.

"Yes they are for us. Thank you!" I handed her my credit card.

"Lizzie is so cool! It’s so amazing that a girl is now in F1!" the girl gave me credit card and the receipt back "I’m a huge fan of her! Of course of you as well! I mean you’re Monegasque!"

"Thank you, I will tell her to stop by some time!" I smiled and grabbed the two bouquets "Merry Christmas!"

"Merry Christmas!" she waved and I left the shop.

Back in the car I called Enzo.

"What’s up?"

"Enzo, you and Arthur have to pick up the family. I need to check on Lizzie." I drove off.

"Okay. Is everything okay?" he asked and I sighed.

"You know Lizzie, she probably is totally overdoing everything just to make it perfect."

"Yeah, sounds like her. Arthur and I will pick up the family and you take care of Lizzie." he laughed.

"Alright, see you later then!" I hung up, heading back home to grab my stuff.

I unlocked the door and walked inside, slipping off my shoes. It smelled amazing.

"Whatever you’re cooking, it smells delicious." I said, walking towards the kitchen, setting down the bouquets and my bags "Cara mia?" I looked around, but Lizzie wasn’t there "Lizzie? Where are you?" there were two pots and whatever was inside started to boil over, Lizzie stormed out from the bathroom, eyes red, 3 fingers on her left and 2 on her right bandaged.

"No no no! Please!" she turned off the stove, pushing the pots away "Fuck!"

"What happened to those." I pointed at the band-aids on her fingers.

"Nothing, I’m clumsy." she sighed a little and then forced out a smile "It’s all good."

It wasn’t. I knew her long enough to know that nothing was good. I could basically feel the anxiety radiating from her. She looked back to the stove and stirred in a pot, frowning at whatever is inside.

"You’re early?" she didn’t look at me.

"Yeah, Lorenzo and Arthur pick up the fam so I thought I could come and help you a little." I said slowly and saw how she wiped away a tear "So, what can I do?"

"You can set the table."

I looked over, the table was already well decorated, only the bouquets of flowers were missing.

"Alright." I smiled at her and grabbed the 2 vases from the table, putting the flowers in and setting them back down. I turned back to Lizzie, a panicked look on her face. She began to rummage through the fridge.

"Oh god no!" she groaned "Amazing. Just amazing. Why am I so stupid."

"What’s wrong?" I looked at her and she closed her eyes.

"I forgot to buy fresh thyme!" she let out before she looked at me with big eyes "This all is a disaster!"

"It’s okay! We can surely use dried thyme as well, no?" I looked at her and she sighed, nodding right when a timer went off.

"Oh, I have to turn the roast beef." she opened the oven and the smell was mouthwatering "I turn it every half hour so it cooks evenly and pour some of the juices over it." she bends down, gripping the baking tray and hissed out in pain.

"Lizzie." I was at her in an instant, gently grabbing her hands, but she only shook her head "Lizzie you burnt yourself, come…" I pulled her towards the sink, letting cool water run over her fingers "Why do you never use your oven mitts?" I whispered and I saw the tears gathering in her eyes.

"I don’t know, okay? God! This was a stupid idea! Who do I think I am? Martha Stuart? Look at this mess! I’m not even halfway done with everything and in not even two hours everyone is coming! My kitchen looks like a mess, the food is not ready, I’ve burned myself again. And look at me! I need to shower and change! Fuck! Why did I insist on cooking today? Alone?" she cried and I pulled her to my side, kissing her temple.

"Okay, first of all, it’s not looking like a mess in here! I’m sure we can do this together, okay?" I reassured her.

"Okay…" she whispered.

"I have an idea. You take a shower. And rest a little, I clean up everything and prepare the next steps and when you’re done, we’re finishing the rest together?" I looked at her, but she shook her head.

"I can’t rest! I still have to prepare so many things! And then clean up and do the dishes!"

"I can prepare everything and as soon as you’re ready we finish it off together? I’m not saying lay down for two hours! Just a little rest, you look exhausted! Come on! I will turn over your roast beef in 25 minutes, pour some juices over. I have it under control." I gently pushed her towards the hallway to her bedroom.

"Are you sure?" she asked and I nodded.

"Yup. Go now." I kissed her cheek.

"In 30 minutes come and get me!" she insisted and I nodded.

"I will." I won’t.

I walked back into the kitchen and looked over the counter, saw her notes and had to smile, everything was written down meticulously, she had ticked off what was done already. I followed her instructions and flinched when the timer went off again and hastily silenced her phone, then did exactly what she did 30 minutes ago. I quietly walked into her bedroom, to see her rolled up on her bed, cuddled up in her bathrobe, hair wrapped up in a towel. Carefully I lifted her head on the pillows and put a blanket over her. Back in the kitchen, I checked her notes again, following all her instructions. Right as I stored away the broom the next timer got off. When I closed the oven my phone rang and I picked it up quickly.

"On a scale from one to ten, how’s it going?" Sissy asked and I chuckled a little.

"It’s going quite well. Everything is prepared. Table is set. Kitchen is cleaned. Lizzie is doing good."

"Good. I was really worried when I saw that she texted mum and me the entire night question after question. I honestly think she didn’t sleep at all." she sounded worried.

"Yeah, she looked a little tired but don’t worry, I’ve got it under control!" I reassured her.

"Don’t know if that is reassuring!" I heard Arthur in the back "Hey! Stop pinching me! I’m the driver!"

"When Charlie says he has it under control then he has it under control!" Liam said and I had to laugh.

"You tell him, Bubba!" I cheered him on.

"Okay, I take care of these two and you take care of Lizzie! See you later!" Sissy chuckled and hung up.

I washed my hands when I felt Lizzie hugging me from behind.

"Your pista should be white…" she whispered.

"What?" I chuckled.

"You know, like a white horse! You’re a knight in shining armour riding on your white horse!"

"And you’re the damsel in distress that needs saving?" I turned around, looking at her.

"Kinda…" she sighed "I thought you would come and get me after half an hour? And not one and a half hours?"

"You looked exhausted and tired and everything is under control! Only the final steps!" I cupped her cheeks "See? It’s all good!"

"Thank you. Really! I was so scared that I screw it all up…" she mumbled and I kissed her forehead.

"Nope. You didn’t! And by the way, everything I tasted was delicious!" I said and Lizzie chuckled.

"What did you taste?" she raised an eyebrow.

"Let me tell you what I didn’t taste." I smiled sheepishly.

"Thank you. Really!" she put her arms around my neck, pulling me close "What did I do to deserve you?"

"Hmm… being the most amazing person on earth?"

"No, that’s you…" she kissed me and I smiled "Okay, let’s do the rest and then I go and get changed."

"Sounds like a plan."

"Lizzie, that dinner was delicious!" Pascale said, everyone else mumbling in agreement.

"I had the best little helper today!" I chuckled and she looked at Liam and Benji for a moment.

"But you guys arrived to-…" she began.

"She meant me!" Charles mumbled and everyone looked at him in silence "Yep. I helped, so never say I’m useless in the kitchen."

"You?" Pascale asked stunned.

"If we’re all having food poisoning tomorrow, we know who to blame." Arthur whispered and Charles throw a bread roll at him, hitting his head "Ouch! What the fu- fudge!" he looked sheepishly at Benji and Liam who giggled at the behaviour of the older boys.

"No one‘s having food poisoning! It was delicious and I’m sure Charles did good." Mum patted Charles arm.

"Thank you, Marina, the only person who’s nice to me." Charles threw his arm around her shoulder and pulled her closer "Can you please adopt me? My mum is so not nice!"

"I’m not sure that’s even necessary at this point." Mum laughed.

"True." Marcus shrugged his shoulders.

"Okay we had now enough grown up talks! Can we have our presents now?" Liam chirped and Benji nodded along.

"Yes! Presents!" he said excited.

"Oh kiddos, I forgot to tell you this… but here in Monaco it’s tradition to open up the presents on the 25th in the morning…" I said and both boys made big eyes.

"Noooooo!" they whined and we laughed.

"We would never make you wait this long!" Charles said and got up, picking up both boys, going to the bathroom.

I got up as well and began cleaning up the table, Lisa and Sissy helping me.

"You stay!" I said to Mum and Pascale and they both sighed a little, right as Liam and Benji stormed back in.

"Did you wash your hands?" Sissy asked and they both nodded "Alright. Then sit down for a little, until we’re done."

"But hurry up please!" Liam pleaded and I laughed.

"Almost done, Bubba!" I closed the dishwasher and started it.

"Hurry uuuup!" he whined.

"Stop whining you little munchkin!" Arthur grabbed Liam and tossed him over his shoulder making him giggle. As Benji began to laugh Charles picked him up and followed Arthur to the sofa.

I did the last dishes, washed my hands and filled up my glass.

"Alright. Done." I followed Sissy and Lisa to the sofa and sat down on the floor, in front of Charles.

"Presents! Presents! Presents!" Liam, Benji and Arthur cheered and I had to laugh.

"Let the kids start. Before these three get a heart attack!" Enzo said and Arthur cheered even louder.

30 minutes later almost all presents were exchanged and the kids sat in a corner, playing a new game on their Switch. Charles gently put his hands under my chin, tilting my head upwards, facing him.

"You didn’t open any of my presents for you, cara mia!" he pouted and I chuckled a little.

"What? You mean these five remaining presents there? Five! Really?" I replied and he grinned.

"You know that it were originally six…"

"I only had one for you…" I sighed and he kissed my forehead.

"Yeah! A painting! A huge ass painting! Probably worth more than anything I bought you! And it doesn’t matter how many presents you buy or how much they cost, it’s the thought that counts." he whispered and I nodded "Maman, can you please give me that white bag? Merci."

I sat up and got up, sitting down next to Charles. Everyone looked at me and I blushed.

"Why are you all looking at me?" I raised an eyebrow.

"Well, you’re the last one to unwrap any presents because you waited till the end… where else should we look?" Dad scratched his head and Charles laughed handing me the first three presents.

"These ones would actually go along with the one I had to cancel." he explained and I opened them, revealing a cozy and soft scarf, beanie and gloves. All in dark grey with pastel pink adornments.

"You planned a ski trip?" Marcus asked and I shook my head.

"Nope. As Charles‘ birthday present I booked a cozy cabin with glass ceiling in Iceland over New Year’s Eve for us…"

"…and I booked the same trip as a Christmas gift." Charles finished and the others started laughing.

"You’re not coming to Costa Rica then?" Mum asked and Liam stopped playing and looked at us.

"We fly on the second of January from Iceland to Costa Rica. Four days later then you guys!" Charles said and I saw how Liam breathed out, looking relieved.

"Romantic getaway…" Marcus whispered, wiggling his eyebrows.

"Ouuuhhhh will there be a mini Lizzie or mini Charles next September then?" Arthur grinned and Enzo flicked his ear "Hey! I’m just saying what we’re all thinking…"

"Shut it, Arthi or I swear the moment we have a kid I manipulate it to annoy the living shit out of you!" I laughed and in the corner of my eyes I saw how Charles smiled.

"But there is more to unwrap!" Liam and Benji joined us again when they saw that I was still unwrapping presents and I sighed.

"There appears to be more to unwrap, yeah…" I looked at Charles and he grinned, handing me a big present. I slowly unwrapped it and a sleek, black box appeared, the white Chanel logo on the top. My jaw dropped when I opened the box, revealing a beautiful black Chanel bag, the classic and timeless flap bag "You’re crazy!" I carefully lifted the bag out of the box.

"Do you like it? The lady in the store said I couldn’t go wrong with that one…" Charles looked at me cautiously.

"You know that I’m not really into fashion and stuff…" I began and his face fell a little "But this is literally the only bag I always wanted to have!"

"Since she was a little girl!" Mum said and I nodded.

"Yeah! I don’t even know why, but that bag was just it for me! Thank you so much!" I kissed his cheek, pulling him close "It’s perfect! Really, really perfect!"

"I’m just glad you like it!" he chuckled a little, fiddling at the last present he held in his hand "This last one is a little special." he handed me the black box and I opened it.

"Are you for real?" I whispered looking at him.

"It was about time that you have a custom made one… maybe you’ll wear that one!" he smiled and I was at a loss of words, carefully taking the watch out of the box "It’s the Richard Mille 07-04. But I designed it and added that little feature." he pointed at the 7 at the top and 16 at the bottom.

"Charles that’s… that’s way too much! Are you crazy?" I stared at the watch with big eyes.

"You know that we’re sponsored by Richard Mille?" he whispered and I nodded.

"But still! They certainly didn’t give it to you for free! And that watch? That costs what? 100k? 150k?" I sighed and he looked down for a moment "Oh god! More! Charles I can’t walk around with a watch at my wrist that’s worth more than 3 cars!"

"Why not? He’s running around with watches worth more than entire mansions!" Arthur again with the not helping comment.

"That’s not the point…" I mumbled.

"Suck it up and thank your boyfriend for that beautiful watch!" Mum said.

"Thank you, my lovely boyfriend for that beautiful watch that will make me hire a bodyguard for whenever I leave the house now, wearing it!" I joked and pecked Charles lips "No really! It’s beautiful! I love it!" I hugged him.

"Only the best for you!" he whispered in my ear.

"Yeah… I can see that!"

The next days we spent all together, cooking and baking, watching Christmas movies and playing board games when it was time for our vacation. Charles and I had to leave earlier than the rest for the airport and we hugged everyone goodbye the night before, as we were leaving early in the morning.

"Are you ready for Iceland?" Charles asked as we both got inside the black SUV and I snuggled into him.

"Já, ég er tilbúinn!" I said and he looked at me, raising an eyebrow "That’s Icelandic and means yes, I’m ready."

"When did you learn Icelandic?" Charles asked and I chuckled.

"The moment I booked this trip. But just some basics and common phrases and words."

"You’re amazing, you know that?" he kissed my temple.

"I try."

Charles laughed and I looked outside, the world still shrouded in darkness. After one hour in the air the sky outside was illuminated by the first rays of sunshine and I turned to Charles, who had a content smile on his face when he grabbed my hand and kissed the back of it.

"I can’t wait to kiss you at midnight on New Year’s Eve." he whispered and I smiled.

"Me neither." I looked outside again, watching the clouds and the sky, leaning back in my seat. At some point I must’ve fallen asleep, after a while Charles caressed my cheek and I opened my eyes, looking around a little confused.

"Cara mia, we’re about to land." he said and I yawned.

"Already?" I yawned and he nodded.

"Yeah. As soon as we’re out here we look for something to eat, when they served food and I woke you up you just grumbled that you’re not hungry and want to sleep, then you turned away and fell asleep again." he laughed and I stretched.

"I couldn’t sleep last night, I was too excited." I said sheepishly and he kissed my cheek.

"I know, I felt you tossing and turning the whole time." he whispered.

"Sorry…" I looked at him apologetically.

"Don’t worry. I’m used to it. You were always a wild sleeper… the amount of times you change position? Uncountable." he laughed and pulled me into his side.

"I know." I sighed as the plane touched ground "But hey! This was the first time I slept through a flight! Like almost entirely! Usually I just doze off for a couple of minutes here and there!"

"That’s true, so now we know how to make you sleep in the plane! Don’t let you sleep beforehand!"

"Yeah maybe." I shrugged my shoulders and slipped into my shoes, pulling a little mirror out of my bag "Oh god! I look horrible!" I groaned and wiped the sleep out of my eyes, before I smoothed down my hair "I need my scarf and beanie…" I rummaged through my bag, pulling said clothing out and wrapped the scarf around my neck, holding the beanie in my hand.

"You look adorable as always and now let’s go!" Charles got up and pulled me with him.

We were awaited by a black SUV that picked us up and I got inside, happily munching on a pastry and nursing a hot chocolate.

"Miss Doetterer, Mr. Leclerc, welcome to Iceland!" the driver said and we smiled.

"Thank you!" I said and he started the engine, driving off.

"This. This is it. I don’t want anything else." I whispered, as Charles’ hand gently stroked up and down my naked spine.

The whole cabin lulled in darkness, only the soft glimmer from the fireplace to our right illuminating the place a little. Cuddled up against Charles, head on his breast, I looked at the glass ceiling. The northern lights glimmering above us.

"Yeah. You beside me. That sky above us. That’s perfection." he kissed the crown of my head.

"We definitely have to come here with the little ones one day. The whole family. This is something they have to see as well!" I yawned and Charles chuckled.

"We will definitely come here with them… but for now, I’d say my pretty girl needs some sleep!" he said and grabbed the blanket, pulling it over us "Tomorrow I want to do a little stroll through the snow! We need to be well rested for that!"

"Sounds more like a snow hike, than a stroll…" I giggled and Charles tilted my head up, two fingers under my chin.

"We’ll see." he kissed me softly and I smiled "Sleep now."

"Okay, okay, Charlie bear… good night…" I laid my head back on his chest and looked above again, it didn’t take long for sleep to find me.

Turning a little, I find the bed empty next to me. With a sigh I opened my eyes, looking around. It was snowing. A lot.

"Good morning, cara mia." Charles walked in with a tray full of food "Are you hungry?" he set the trey down in front of me and climbed back into bed.

"Always." I mumbled and sat up, the blanket slipping down, making me shiver.

"Here." Charles handed me his hoodie and pulled it over my head.

"Thanks… so what do we have here." I smiled and looked at the food "Looks good, did you make that?"

"No, don’t worry. You can order it and they bring it up to your cabin." he chuckled, pouring some orange juice into a glass "Here. I have everything that you love."

"I thought for lunch we could check out the restaurant at the reception building? Then we can select our dinner for tonight as well and order it."

"Sounds like a plan… snow hike then." I laughed, eating some yogurt.

"Oh come on! It’s not that far away! According to the flyer it’s only 1.7 kilometre! That’s nothing for us!"

"Did you see the snow outside? That will take forever! We will probably freeze to death on our way there! A pack of wild wolves will find us and eat us as a little snack!"

"Now you’re being dramatic! There are no wolves in Iceland!" he laughed and I shrugged my shoulders "It’s going to be amazing, you’ll see!"

After breakfast I had a long, hot shower and then dressed up.

"I’m glad I took my ski clothes with me." I said and sat down to put on my boots.

"Smart girl!" Charles chuckled and put on his beanie "Ready?"

"Yup!" I slipped my gloves on and followed him outside "Oh wow, that’s really cold!"

"Just a little… come on now!" he held out his hand and we walked along the beautiful, snowy landscape.

"As much as I love snow, but that would be too much! Seriously! Three to four months like this? Hell no!" I mumbled when we arrived at the reception building, shaking off the snow.

"God no! You’re right. That’s really a little much." Charles opened the door for me and I unzipped my jacket right as a woman walked up to us.

"Miss Doetterer, Mr. Leclerc. I’ll take you to your table. Do you want me to take your jackets?" she smiled at us.

"That would be wonderful, they’re wet and snowy." I answered and she nodded,looking at a young man, who took our jackets from us. We then followed her inside the little restaurant and she placed us right next to a cozy fireplace, a huge panorama window on the other side.

"Here’s the menu. If you have any questions, just ask." with one last smile she walked away.

"That food sounds delicious!" I read through the menu, not knowing what to pick "I kinda want everything."

"Don’t forget, we order some dinner as well for tonight. So you can try a lot of different stuff." Charles smiled and I nodded.

"That’s good, because I have already three things I want to order and I’m not even half way done with the menu."

"Same same."

"Let me just set up my camera!" I smiled at Charles who jumped into the snow, making snow angels.

"Maybe it wasn’t the best idea to do that with only jeans on!" he laughed as I jumped right next to him.

"Sweatpants aren’t that great either." I grabbed a handful snow and threw it at him.

"Hey!" Charles shuddered a little before he grabbed some snow as well "Oh the battle is on!" he lunged at me and for the next 10 minutes we were rolling through the snow, throwing snowballs at each other and having the time of our life’s.

"Ok, I give up! I’m done!" I heaved, plopping down in the snow and Charles leaned over me.

"You surrender?" he asked, his hot breath fanning over my skin.

"I surrender!" I whispered and he put his cold lips on mine.

"Let’s get inside, cara mia." he kissed the tip of my nose and then picked me up, carrying me inside "How about we make use of that huge bathtub?" he sat me down and I shut off my camera.

"That sounds like an amazing idea!" I nodded and Charles took my hand, leading me to the bathroom.

Thirty minutes later I sat, between Charles legs, back pressed into his chest, watching the snow fall outside.

"We could go to the blue lagoon tomorrow? I mean, where in Iceland! We have to go there!" Charles kissed my shoulder.

"Oh yes please! That mud and clay is supposed to be really good for your skin!" I said excitedly and he laughed.

"Alright. I’ll check in with the reception later on.

"Thank you!" I turned a little, kissing him.

We sat cuddled up on the sofa in front of the fireplace, Charles reading a book while I was scrolling through Instagram to see what our family and friends were up to. Under the newest post of Arthur, a picture of him with Liam on his shoulders and Lorenzo with Benji on his shoulders the comments were full of comments about Charles and I. People were asking if we were there as well, as since Mexico we were pretty quiet on social media. Charles only posted twice after. The picture of us in Mexico and then one last picture from Abu Dhabi, where he thanked the Tifosi for an incredible year. My last post was from the media day in Mexico, where I took a picture with a girl who gave me a self made doll, looking like me. People were wondering why I haven’t posted anything yet about Charles and I. I put my phone down and picked up my camera, looking through the picture it took while we were playing in the snow earlier. There were some really nice snapshots among some very blurry ones. As I went through the photos I had an idea.

When it knocked on the door, Charles got up, opening the door. A whole cart full of food and beverages was rolled in and after tipping the server Charles turned to look at me.

"I guess, the party can begin!" he laughed, pointing at the big champagne bottle and I smiled.

"Looks like it!" I said and Charles rolled the cart over to the big panorama windows "That food smells amazing!"

He sat down on the sofa and patted the space next to him.

"What a way to end this year." I sighed, plopping down and leaning back into the soft pillows, Charles leaned back as well, snaking his arm around me and pulling me close to him.

"Last year on New Year’s Eve I promised myself that this was the year I would make you mine. You know me, I usually never have any New Year’s resolutions… but yeah this one time I had one and I’m more than happy that it worked out." Charles said and kissed my temple.

I turned slightly to look at him, he had a content smile on his face, watching the heavy snowfall outside our window.

"Thank you…" I whispered after a while and he tilted his head slightly "Thank you for believing in us. Fighting for us… thank you for making this year literally the best year of my life!"

"I mean, it’s not like I was being totally selfless and did it just for your sake… I gained a lot from it as well." he chuckled a little and I playfully hit his chest "It was a good year. And I know even better years will come!"

"Hear, hear!"

After another moment of silence where we just indulged in being together at this wonderful place, Charles sat up slowly.

"Now come on! We have all of this amazing food!" he said and I sat up as well "Should I put on some music? Or do you want to watch a film?"

"We only watched four out of our five Christmas movies this year! We have to watch Elf!" I said and Charles laughed "We did it every year! We can’t break that tradition now!"

"Alright. Elf it is!" he turned on the TV and I loaded up my plate with food, snuggling back into the pillows.

"I like New Year’s Eve like this… good food, watching a movie all cuddled up. Just you and me. Quiet. Comfy." I mumbled after a while and Charles hummed his agreement.

When the end credits were rolling I checked the time. 23:46.

"Almost midnight." Charles smiled, following my look "I have an idea. Come on up, pretty girl." he pulled me up on my feet, grabbing our jackets and boots "Dress up. I want to slow dance in the snow with you." he wrapped his scarf around his head and out his beanie on, I did the same and sat down to lace up my boots. Charles grabbed his phone and looked at me "Ready? Okay… oh wait. One more thing!" he grabbed the bottle of champagne and then slid open the glass doors to the terrace holding out his hand for me to take.

"Oh wow it’s freezing!" I said as we stepped outside.

"Give me a second and I’ll fix that." Charles said tapping away at his phone and Ed Sheeran’s 'Perfect' started to play. He placed his phone and the champagne on the table and then pulled me onto his arms, gently swaying us around, humming to the melody of the song. He leaned his forehead against mine closed his eyes. I did the same "…dancing in the dark, with you between my arms, with snow boots in the snow, listening to our favourite song…" he quietly sang along and I had to laugh when he changed the lyrics.

"Is that our favourite song then?" I asked and he looked at me.

"No. But it’s a nice one. And it’s slow. Just wait… our favourite song will play next…" he smiled and I was curious what he might’ve picked out.

We slow danced in the snow when the song ended and the next one began. My heart racing, big smile spreading over my face.

"Charles…" I whispered and he pulled me closer.

"This is it. I know it’s one of your favourite songs… and when I learned to play it on the piano for you I kinda fell in love with it as well… and I want that for us… I want to go where you go, I always want to be this close… you’re my lover…" Charles smiled his most adorable smile and gently wiped away a stray tear from my cheek "I love you, Lizzie."

"I love you too, Charles. So much." and right as I leaned in the fireworks exploded above us "Midnight…"

Charles pulled me closer, his soft lips fitted perfectly on mine and I gasped at how cold they where. He slipped his tongue inside my mouth, gentle but demanding, sending shivers down my spine. His grip on my waist tightened as he tried to pull me even closer into him, every single part of my body dissolving into his, a shockwave of tingles spreading all over my body.

"Happy New Year, mon amour." Charles whispered against my lips when we both had to come up for some air.

"Happy New Year, mon cœur." I replied looking in his beautiful eyes.

"Here." he pulled away a little, turning to the table and grabbed the bootle of champagne, popping the cork, pouring us two glasses. I took the glass he handed me and we toasted them together "Cheers to us." our glasses clinked together and I took a swig of it. Charles pulled me to his side again and we looked at the sky above, the northern lights glowing, the fireworks sparkling.

The whole flight from Iceland to Miami and then San Jose I felt giddy, excited. The pictures our family had sent us were looking amazing and I couldn’t wait to spent some last relaxed days with our family before the preparation for the new season would start. We got out of the car and the door opened, Liam and Benji storming out.

"THEY‘RE HERE! THEY‘RE HERE!" the boys shouted happily and I had to laugh, both storming towards us.

"Hey kiddos!" Charles scooped them up and they hugged him "I missed you guys!"

"We missed you too! Charlie the pool is so big! And there are tiny geckos everywhere! And you can hear monkeys in the jungle! It’s so cool!" Liam screeched and then leaned over to me and I grabbed him, hugging him close "And we saw a sloth! The my are sooooo slow!" he kissed my cheek and I smiled.

"Yeah and we saw turtles! Nico said we will see baby turtles if we’re lucky!" Benji made big eyes and I kissed his cheek.

"Oh wow! Sounds like you had some amazing adventure already then?" Charles said and the boys nodded, right as Arthur and Marcus walked outside, taking our suitcases from the driver.

"You couldn’t even let them get inside, couldn’t you?" Marcus chuckled, sidehugging me "Hey schwesti."

"They were just so happy to see us… maybe they were a little sick of the same boring faces for the past few days!" I chuckled and he pinched my side.

"Come on in. You’ll love it! You did an amazing job, picking this place, Lizzie!" Arthur said and we followed them inside. I was stunned. The photos didn’t do this place justice. It was insane.

"Oh hey there lovebirds!" Enzo came inside from the terrace and we hugged him "You’re just in time for dinner! Or do you first settle down a little? Freshen up?"

"If dinner means there’s also a cold drink for me? Then I’m up for it now." I chuckled a little and Charles nodded.

"Don’t worry, you can have any drink you want! Come on out!" he smiled and we followed him outside.

We hugged everyone and then sat down on the terrace, overlooking a huge infinity pool with a marvellous beach right in front.

"How was Iceland? It looked pretty cold! But so beautiful!" Mum asked and I munched on my garlic bread, letting Charles do the talk.

"It was really cold. But so quiet! The cabins are so far away from each other that you really had the feeling you were there alone! And then half of the house is made out of glass! We lay in bed, watching the northern lights above us! They were so amazing! I swear I didn’t even want to sleep, just look at them." he said with a big smile.

"Probably not the only thing he wanted to do while laying there…" Arthur leaned in, saying it only for me to hear and I punched his arm "Hey!"

"You, little Arthi, should get your head out of the gutter!" I said underneath my breath and he rubbed his arm.

"As if I’m wrong." he mumbled and I laughed.

"No, you’re absolutely not wrong. You want to have the full details…" I looked him dead in the eye, wiggling my eyebrows.

"Eww stop!" he shoved me a little and Charles looked at us.

"What are you two talking about?"

"Nothing!" Arthur and I said at the same time and we burst out laughing.

"Enough from Iceland! How’s it here? What have you done already?" I asked.

"We were at the beach, the city, just relaxed here by the pool. In two days we want to go on a boat ride… oh and there are three turtle nests right in front of our nose… we spent some time just watching it until they hatch." Dad gave us a quick rundown and I cheered excitedly.

"Turtle nests? Three of them? That’s where we might see the baby turtles then!" I asked and Benji nodded "Oh wow! How exciting!"

"Yeah Nico, he’s the wildlife expert who works for the resort, said the chances are pretty high that we will see baby turtles… he goes on control walks every night and when he sees that they hatch he will call us, so we can join him at the beach." Sissy explained and I nodded.

"I really hope they will hatch!" Liam said and I smiled.

"Me too, little one, me too!"

Charles POV:

"Charles! Liam! Come on! The cars are waiting!" Sissy shouted and Liam rolled his eyes.

"She always needs hours to be ready and then that one time we need a little longer she shouts!" he mumbled and I laughed.

"Take the first car, we’re coming in the second one!" I shouted back and heard the door close "Now come on, Bubba. Put on your shoes."

"Why do I need shoes anyway? I’m just in the car and then on the boat!" Liam mumbled.

"Because we have to get from the car tonte boat as well?" I cocked an eyebrow and he frowned, putting on socks and his shoes "That’s what I thought. Let me just grab some water, I know you, we’re probably not even in the car and you’re thirsty already!" we walked down the stairs and I grabbed two bottles of water, putting them in my backpack "Alright, let’s go."

Outside was no car waiting for us and I looked around. I saw the car parking at the entryway to the neighbouring house and ushered Liam towards it.

"Hi, umm are you our driver?" I asked the guy who leaned against the car and he nodded.

"I’m José. Is it just you two? I thought you’re more?" he asked and opened our door.

"They took the first car, we’re a little late." I laughed as we sat down and I buckled Liam in.

"Oh? Okay? I thought I was the first car and then Matteo would be picking up the latecomer? Maybe I drove too fast." he pulled into the traffic and Liam laughed.

"Maybe you should also be a Formula 1 driver like Charlie and Lizzie!" he said excitedly and José looked at us in the rear view mirror.

"Formula 1 driver? You’re Charles Leclerc from Ferrari?" he asked and I nodded slightly.

"Guilty." I said and he smiled.

"You had a pretty good season, without some mistakes from your team, you might’ve won the title." he said and I shrugged my shoulders.

"I made too many mistakes myself, to blame the team entirely." I sighed a little but he only shook his head.

"Imola and France were your only mistakes. The rest was your team’s fault."

"Yes, because Ferrari is bad to Charlie!" Liam pouted and I chuckled.

"Oh come on now Bubba, you love Ferrari!" I put an arm around his shoulder, pulling him a little into my side.

"Just because you drive there! Maybe you should go to Red Bull and drive with Max! Then you would win!" he chirped and José and I laughed.

"I don’t think that’s so easy, little man." our driver said and I nodded.

"Absolutely not that easy. And I also love Ferrari, just like you." I laughed, ruffling Liams hair.

"Whatever." he shrugged his shoulders and looked out of the window.

For the next 25 minutes we drove in silence, following a street deep into the forest.

"I thought the harbour was just a short drive away downtown somewhere?" I asked and José looked at me in the mirror.

"Harbour? No, no, compañero, we’re driving into the jungle to the adventure park?" he said and Liams eyes lit up.

"Adventure park?" he said excitedly and José nodded.

"Okay, there must be a mistake, because our cars were supposed to bring us to the harbour." I said, pulling out my phone "I have to call Lizzie." I dialled her number.

"Where are you, the skipper wants to leave in the next minutes?" Lizzie picked up.

"Umm I think there’s a mix up? We’re on our way to an adventure park instead of the harbour." I said and was met with silence "Lizzie?"

"How- how did that happen?" she asked.

"I honestly don’t know." I scratched my chin.

"I wanna go to the adventure park! Adventure park! Adventure park!" Liam whined and Lizzie sighed.

"Wait, I have to ask your mum…" Lizzie said and I heard her talking with Sissy "Alright. You go to the adventure park as it seems!"

"Are you sure? We could turn around?" I asked.

"Noooooo! I want to spend the day with you in the adventure park!" Liam pouted and I laughed.

"Okay. Seems like we’re going to the adventure park…"

"Take care and have fun boys! See you tonight!" Lizzie said.

"See you tonight, cara mia." I hung up and Liam looked at me with big eyes.

"It’s only you and me?" he said and I nodded "Awesome!"

An hour later, after we got our first instructions, were both strapped into our harnesses, climbing up the trees. Liam above me giggling happily.

"Come on, Charlie! Hurry up!" he looked back at me and I chuckled.

"I’m on my way! Look where you’re going!"

The next few hours we climbed higher and higher, swinging from platform to platform, walking over rope bridges, and slack lines. At the end of the track, we arrived at a huge platform with a zip line, Liam making big eyes, grabbing my hand tight.

"That looks scary." he whispered, clutching to my hand.

"Yeah a little." I nodded and looked at him, fear evident on his face "We can do it together?"

"Can we?" he asked and I looked at the the instructor who nodded.

"No problem, we will strap you to him and then you go together!" he smiled and clipped me onto the zip line, then he clipped Liams harness to mine, pulling at it, to check if it’s safe "You guys are ready to go!"

"Alright! Thank you!" I smiled at him and Liam held onto my arm "Ready? 3… 2… 1… Go!"

It was amazing. The view was incredible, the speed thrilling and when it was over I would’ve loved to go again.

"That was sooo cool!" Liam jumped happily up and down when we stepped out of the harnesses "Can we do that again?"

"Not today, Bubba, it’s already quite late and we have to walk to the car park." I said and he pouted a little.

"Can we come here again? Tomorrow? With everyone? Lizzie, Benji, Arthi, Marcus, Enzo?"

"We’ll ask them when we’re back home."

"Deal?"

"Deal!"

We opened the door and walked inside, I noticed the light in the kitchen was on.

"Charles?" I said loudly and walked through the archway.

"Shhh!" Charles shushed me as I rounded the corner.

Sitting on the huge sofa was Charles, Liam cuddled up on his chest, snoring softly. Charles looked exhausted but had a big smile on his face, waving at us.

"I think I exhausted him a little." he chuckled and Lorenzo walked past me, setting down a dozing Benji right next to him. Benji grumbled a little but then looked up at Charles, yawning and cuddling up to his side "And you exhausted this little one." he put his arm around Benji, pulling him closer.

"How was the adventure park?" I asked, sitting down next to him.

"It was pretty cool, in the jungle. Liam wants to go there tomorrow again, with all of you guys. It was a high ropes course in the trees and a huge zip line at the end, couple hundreds of metres long. Pretty high. But the view? Incredible." Charles eyes lit up and I smiled.

"Yeah, then we should go there tomorrow all together." Marcus said and I nodded.

"High ropes in the trees? Zip line? Nope. I’m too old for that." Juergen chuckled and Maman and Marina nodded agreeing.

"And I’m afraid of heights, so I’m out as well!" Lisa chuckled.

"We enjoy a quiet house then." Maman said.

"Sounds like a plan then. Did he eat something?" Sissy asked and I nodded "Perfect, I’ll take him to bed then!" she carefully picked him up and Lisa did the same with Benji.

"You look exhausted?" I whispered to Charles as he put his arm around me.

"A little, yeah… but it was fun and you guys will love it!" he said and I nodded.

"I think I’ll head to bed as well. I’m tired." I sat up and stretched a little.

"Already? Are you okay?" he sat up as well, looking at me.

"Yeah yeah, I’m just tired!" I kissed his cheek and got up "Good night guys!"

"You’re going to bed already?" Dad asked and I nodded, not missing the look he and Charles exchanged "Alright, good night then."

I walked upstairs into our bedroom and went straight for the bathroom, stripping naked and took a shower. I wrapped my hair in a towel and sat down on the bed, stretching my back. I felt a little tense the past days, some days more, some less. Today it was a little more, probably caused by climbing the ladder of the boat out of the ocean again and again. I unwrapped my hair after a while and walked into the bathroom, brushing it when Charles walked in.

"Hey…" he said and looked at me for a moment "Are you really okay? You’re a little pale?"

"I’m just tired, really." I sighed and put the brush down "Don’t worry! I just need to sleep a little."

"Okay." he kissed the crown of my head and then went for a shower.

Cuddled up in the bed I took my phone out and scrolled a little through Instagram and Co. when Charles came back, lying down next to me.

"We’re leaving in four days and then the preparation for the new season starts already." he whispered and I put my phone down "Do you want to join us? I know that Andrea and JK talked about it. A little skiing. Snow hiking, climbing?"

"Yeah JK asked me already, I wanted to surprise you…" I smiled and he turned his head "We’ll join you."

"Now I’m excited for it!" he pulled me closer.

"Yeah? You know that I will kick your ass?" I chuckled and he threw his head back laughing.

"Only you would make a competition out of a training camp!"

"You know me." I shrugged my shoulders a little.

"Yeah that’s true." he kissed my head "Now sleep, cara mia. You need to be well rested tomorrow!"

"Oh come on! A little high ropes course? That’ll be easy peasy!" I laughed.

It wasn’t easy at all. It was exhausting. A lot of fun. But exhausting. As we arrived at the zip line it was all worth it though. The view was incredible and the feeling of breezing down the valley felt amazing.

"That was freaking awesome!" I cheered back in the car.

"It was so cool!" Benji agreed "Can we come here again?"

"We’ll see, little one!" Marcus patted his shoulder as I watched the sun slowly setting and Enzo’s phone rang.

"Really? Oh wow! Yeah we’ll be there in 10 minutes! See you soon!" he hung up and looked at us "In one of the nests the eggs began to hatch!"

"BABY TURTLES!" Liam shouted and I laughed excitedly.

The car wasn’t even parked when Benji and Liam already unbuckled their seatbelts and darted out of the car, running towards the beach. The rest of us followed them quickly, a small group of people had already gathered at one of the nests. Mum, Dad, Pascale and Lisa waved us over and the boys ran over to them. When we arrived, Nico told us that his team made sure that the baby turtles would make it safely into the ocean, as a lot of predators were looking out for the little ones and unfortunately also poachers. The first baby turtles already made their way down to the beach, flanked by two people on each side. They looked adorable and I kneeled down to take a closer look. Nico carefully picked up two baby turtles and sat them down gently onto Liams and Benjis outstretched hands.

"They are so cute!" Liam whispered, lifting his head a little to look closely at the tiny creature.

"And so small!" Benji did the same.

"For now they are small, but they will turn into big sea turtles, maybe even bigger than you!" Nico explained and the boys made big eyes.

"Wow!" they whispered.

"You want to bring them down to the water?" Nico asked and the boys nodded "Who else wants a baby turtle?" he turned to us and in the next minute we all had our own little baby turtle in our hands, carrying them down to the rest of Nico’s team. They instructed us to sat them down close to the waterline, but not too close, they had to start their journey to the ocean alone.

"What a special day." Charles whispered as we watched how the little creatures made their way into the ocean, getting swapped away as soon as they reached the water, right as the sun set over the horizon. He hugged me from behind and leaned his chin on my shoulder, watching the baby turtles starting their journey in front of us.

"What a special day indeed."

Chapter 30 - that was the winter break, just some cute and fluffy moments! They deserved to be a little carefree for a while… before the new season starts… and…

Please leave a comment/ like/ reblog/ message and tell me how you liked it! I'm dying to hear your thoughts!

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Last but not least, English is not my first language and although I tried my best: please excuse any mistakes I made!

Taglist:

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All the images I’m using are from Google, Pinterest and Instagram (or self made).

[stevenbasic]

Growing into the Job, Post 366: That was Then, This is Now, p18

He hadn't even complained when she parked in the middle of the street, in clear view of his old neighbors, to give him a blow job in the car. He’d just sat back, closed his eyes, and let it happen. She had then let him nap on the way home, the taste of him still deliciously on her lips. As she cooked for him, in her mother’s modern, well-appointed kitchen, she had been understanding when he was quiet. She knew that going to his old house to see his ex-wife chatting with his new younger girlfriend could have been stressful. She’d given him the time he needed as she made him dinner - well, she’d reheated a rotisserie chicken she’d grabbed last week, and steamed some carrots. And she didn’t melt them, like last time! Even though he didn’t eat much of her cooking - just some of the veggies - she was happy she could provide for him like this, take care of him. He’d asked for a glass of milk, all by himself, when he decided that was what he really needed. That made her smile. She wanted to make him feel comfortable tonight, but she needed him to start accepting the way things were now.

And he’d responded well, she thought. Throughout dinner, with a couple glasses of wine, he’d begun to smile more. He’d started to lighten up. He’d cracked some stupid jokes, at which she’d made sure to laugh. She wanted him to forget some of his worries and just enjoy himself. He began to get chilly, so she let him borrow an old white hoodie to wear over his scrubs, one of hers that her mom had kept. It used to fit her in middle school but, by the looks of it, it was too big on him now. The sight of him in it made her thighs tingle, but she didn’t want to say anything yet. And he didn't seem to mind that it was too large, that it was a teenage girl’s sweatshirt. It was snuggly and warm and it still actually smelled like her, and that was all that mattered. All in all, he was now having a good time, sitting here at the kitchen bar with a glass of wine after dinner, chatting. Here, away from the office and the stresses of the outside world, he began to open up again. He was still hesitating, holding back, wrapped up in that too-smart head of his. But Melissa was still in her tight white dress from work and she knew her figure - as always - provided a pleasant distraction and loosened his tongue as much as the wine. She wanted him to talk to her tonight

“How are you feeling, any better?” she asked him, with honest concern.

“I’m fine…I guess,” he responded, lukewarmly. He took a moment to think. “Better when I’m alone with you.”

ooo yes okay okay that felt good. She smiled, actually blushing, the weapons-grade dimples of her cheeks carving lines of gladness into her face. “I like being alone with you too,” she said, her voice gentle and warm, “It just feels so…natural.”

He smiled, too, nodding in an unspoken agreement. It was strange, weird, but the connection between these two very different people was strengthening by the day. They both silently acknowledged that, and clinked glasses.

“Cheers,” he said.

“Cheers,” she giggled.

He took a sip of wine, a really nice South American malbec that she’d insisted he open, something she grabbed from her mother’s wine cellar. She hadn’t, of course, let him down there himself, but she knew exactly what flavor (is that the right word haha?) he liked, and picked it out herself.

He took another sip. “So, uh, hey,” he began, “Is there any way we can step out, maybe get some air? I think I should clear my head for a bit. Maybe a walk?” It had been so long since he’d really been outside, taken a walk. Even in the dark, it’d be nice.

“Sure sure sure, sweetie,” Melissa answered, “But hey why don’t instead we, like, head out into the backyard. The patio’s nice…”

He nodded. Okay, okay…

“...and maybe we could start a fire, cuddle up? A quiet night just you, me and the stars?” She beamed as she watched as his little face brightened at her suggestion. Was that the idea of the fire, the stars, or - hopefully - the cuddles?

“Ah, sold!” he exclaimed, suddenly putting his wine down, invigorated, “Maybe we could make some S’mores?”

Melissa’s smile grew bigger. She loved seeing him happy, seeing him enthused. It was really, truly adorable. But…

“What’s a S’more?” she asked, “The girls over the weekend, brought some stuff, had said-”

“Oh you’ve got to be kidding me!” he laughed, interrupting her, “You’ve never had a S’more?”

“No I uh-”

“Well that settles it! We’re making S’mores tonight and you’re gonna love it!” he said, jumping off of his high stool and eager to pull her along.

With her help he rummaged through her cabinets, finding the essential ingredients. Apparently there had been plans to make them on Saturday night. The girls had brought the stuff but the moment never materialized. But tonight, he’d decided: S’mores! Suddenly it was like he was a man on a mission, and she patiently indulged his zeal. 

After a few minutes, they had an elegant rosewood tray laden with everything they needed. She allowed him to carry it, and slid apart the big, glass sliding doors that opened up to the backyard patio. They walked out onto it, and had a solid two acres of grass and elegant landscaping all to themselves, separated from any prying eyes by tall, tasteful hedges and a thicket of oaks, ashes and maples. With wood from the woodpile at the yard’s edge and a bit of effort the two of them managed to start a fire in the stone firepit that was built tastefully into the large patio. He’d needed to instruct her how to set up the kindling and logs, as she’d never started a fire before. But soon they had it nicely ablaze and were prepared to spend the evening together, under the clear sea of stars on this crisp evening. The fire was also burning brightly at this point, casting its warm light across the patio and onto the two lovers.

Though she didn’t really need its warmth, she sat there in an oversized hoodie of her own, soft and blue. She reclined in the mahogany Adirondack chair next to his and cursed as her third marshmallow of the night burst into flames.

“Oh poop!!” she laughed, pulling it out immediately and once again extinguishing it by grabbing it into her free hand. 

He didn’t even gasp this time, she noticed. She’d told him it was cute, how alarmed he’d first been, telling her stop you’ll burn yourself! She was, somehow, now impervious to flames. He’d seen her, over the weekend, place her hand right on a hot burner on the stove, not even flinch. Now she was giggling, licking the gooey, burnt marshmallow from her palm, no worse for the wear. I could pick up one of those hot red coals, sweetie, if I wanted. It wouldn’t hurt a bit. 

He had to stop letting this sort of thing freak him out. His girlfriend was not only - along with, it seemed, his entire female staff - growing taller at a rapid rate, but was also developing abilities that he struggled to be able to explain, that baffled all his years of medical education. Powerful breath, super strength, she’d healed his hickey with a laying-on of hands - and now this invulnerability to heat? What else was this girl capable of? And, he thought, with a private shiver, what was she going to be capable of a year from now, if she continued to develop these..let’s call them what they are…powers. It was like something out of one of the comic books he’d loved reading when he was younger, the strong superheros he'd secretly worshiped. But now he was dating one, a budding heroine. 

Or is she going to turn out to be the villain?

He shook off his intrusive thoughts, and - shivering in a private chill - pulled the thin blanket she’d put over his legs closer. “Here, let’s try this,” he said, putting a new marshmallow on her stick and redirecting her to get this right. There was a proper part of the fire to use, and a right distance at which to keep it. For all her strengths and physical capabilities, Melissa couldn’t roast a marshmallow for shit. Apparently, she’d never done it as a kid. Her childhood was, by her accounts, full of constant travel, and she didn’t have much to call her own. Her mother certainly didn’t have a home as extravagant as this for her and her sister growing up, with its bluestone patio complete with built-in fire pit, outdoor kitchen and beautiful mahogany furniture. They’d never even gone camping.

“Omigod delicious!” she raved, big eyes wide as she took her first bite of the little graham-cracker and chocolate-bar sandwich he’d made for her. A finger came to the corner of her lips, catching some of the gooey white sugar of the perfectly done marshmallow the two of them had roasted. They’d cooked it together, watching it start to turn a nice, gentle brown, even starting to smoke and bubble a little. At some point it almost fell off her stick, and she giggled as he helped her recover. Finally, it was done, slightly crispy on the outside, and perfect to slide between the two crackers and melt the chocolate just enough before-

“So yummy!!” she gushed, taking the next bite and then, immediately, insisting that they make another. “I’m so glad the girls brought this stuff over on Saturday! Too bad we didn’t even use it. S'mores are amazing!”

“Yeah…right…this weekend,” he mumbled, suddenly pensive again, sitting forward in his chair and poking around the fire’s embers with his own roasting stick. He watched as Melissa began to put another marshmallow on her stick, prepared to fix up another s’more. She promised she’d let him have some of it. 

Though seemingly intent on her task - I am not going to burn this one - she was reading his demeanor loud and clear, sensing his anxiety. She glanced at him, deciding to be quiet as she slid her stick into the fire, into the perfect position to roast her next marshmallow. He hadn’t said anything further, but she felt a dark little thrill of excitement when she uncannily knew that he was about to ask-

“So, uh,” he began, reaching for a marshmallow, putting it on the tip of his own stick, “Sheryl said something about a video? From this weekend?”

“Omigosh so fun,” Melissa giggled, herself recalling the amazing moments from Friday, Saturday, Sunday as she watched him put his marshmallow into the flames. The date, the visit to the TV station, the mall with Shanette. And then of course the pool, dinner with all the girls and - bnnnghrrrrrar - bed with him, Sunday with him, the whole weekend with him. They had all grown together as friends, as a family…and they had all just plain grown. Well, haha, not him. Quite the opposite. And some of it made its way online.

“Did, like, someone post something I should know about?” he asked, watching her marshmallow slowly start to brown, not paying as much attention to his, “My phone’s dead so I, uh, couldn’t check…”

I can’t show that to him, not yet, not tonight. He’ll freak. 

Simply crossing her legs, bare in the crisp night air, grabbed his attention. Her right leg came over her left, muscles bulging. He was suddenly distracted, suddenly appreciating the immensity of her shapely legs, and he swallowed audibly. He felt immediately the familiar sense of anxiety resurface, and he tried to stop it in its tracks. Why should it bother him if Melissa’s taller than him? Younger, physically superior? She was the sweetest woman he'd ever met, even if she was two sandwiches short of a picnic, or a little nuts. She was certainly the first woman he’d been with that would try to cook a s’more for him.

Speaking of - ahhhg!

His marshmallow was on fire!!

Melissa giggled, watching him blow blow blow at the flaming inferno at the end of his stick. She quietly resisted the temptation to use a puff of her own breath to extinguish it for him. I might blow him off the patio haha. Eventually though, even with his little lungs, he had it snuffed out and he was shaking his head, admonishing himself for having lost focus again. She was amused by how dumbfounded and distracted he could get every now and then. That, she knew, glancing down at her bare, womanly thighs, may be her fault…ok, it’s totally my fault.

She took her stick out, on whose end her marshmallow sat toasted brown and perfect. “Don’t worry sweetie,” she told him, gently urging him to lower his stick, letting the ashen remnants of his attempt fall back into the fire, “we can use mine.”

He couldn't help but notice she’d gotten very good at roasting marshmallows, very quickly. She had an uncanny ability to pick up these talents pretty quickly. Unless they involved like, math, or spelling maybe. He watched her make another s’more, and allowed her to feed him the first bite. Yum. Pretty good, actually. Solid food hadn’t been his thing for a while now, but when she made it it tended to be a bit more palatable; he’d noticed that with the carrots earlier. Something about her making it just made everything taste better for some reason. Yum yum. He was given another bite, and another, and soon the s’more was all gone.

They spent the next few minutes laughing a little together, musing on the possibility of running away and opening up a s’more shack somewhere out in the mountain wilderness (her idea), or down on some southern beach (his), just the two of them, charging passer-bys for their gourmet offerings. She liked the chilly mountainside idea, with its promise of nighttime snuggles, where he suggested the beach because, uh, bikinis.  “Grab your wine, tiger,” she instructed him with a laugh and a slap to his knee, standing up, “let’s go look at the stars…”

She helped him from his chair with an offered hand, and it was with clasped palms that they stepped off the patio, away from the fire, out into the yard. A few swipes on her phone and the outside lights were off, as were any interior lights. She wanted it nice and dark for this.

The little hillock at the edge of the woods would be perfect. Nice soft grass, away from it all. The fire still burned, flickering maybe a hundred yards away, but it was now the stars that would light their way. She’d grabbed the thin blanket he’d been using earlier as something for them to sit on. Down on their backs they lay, next to one another, and gazed up at the heavens.

“Wow,” was his first reaction, “would you look at that.” It had been a long time - too long - since he’d had the chance to stargaze. It was honestly a little bit magical.

Melissa laid next to him as he stared up at the stars. While the show from the sky provided a diversion, distracting him again, she felt him shiver a bit. Without the blanket over him, he was likely getting cold. She snuggled in towards him to provide heat from her larger body. It made her smile when she felt him instinctively nestle in closer to her right side.

“Ooo look, there’s Andromeda…” he spoke, pointing skyward.

She followed the direction of his hand, looking up. “Who?”

“Andromeda, the constellation,” he explained, “Look…”

He pointed it out. Andromeda was a group of nine main stars, and with his help and little imagination she could picture it, the chained woman. Named after a princess in Greek mythology. “See?” he told her, pointing emphatically up at the constellation,  “Andromeda was chained to a rock by her mother as a sacrifice to a big sea monster. The gods had been angered when Andromeda’s mother claimed that her daughter was more beautiful than even them, but she was rescued by Perseus, a hero who fell in love with her.” 

Melissa listened quietly. She loved it. It was so cute when he got all excited, let his guard down and shared himself with her. She especially loved it when he told her that he thought she looked a lot like Andromeda, with her long dark hair and beautiful eyes. She smiled and said that she was flattered. Prettier than the gods, huh?

“Wow you know a lot,” she said, when he began to talk of the Andromeda galaxy, which they might have been able to see with a good set of binoculars. 

“You mean that blurry, like, spiral patch up there?” she asked, pointing up into the constellation. 

“You can see that?” he asked, squinting himself. The naked, human eye shouldn’t be able to find it; he certainly couldn’t. “But, uh, yeah…” he continued, shaking off the feeling that he was laying down in the grass next to something more than human, “I took some astronomy classes at Amherst. I really like this stuff.” 

As they lay there, Melissa thought about how lucky she was to have found the man she loved. He was kind, funny, and intelligent, and he made her feel like the most special woman in the world. She knew that they would be together forever, and that thought filled her with joy.

He pointed out Cassiopeia next. 

“She’s Andromeda’s mother. See those five bright stars in the shape of a ‘W’?” 

Melissa nodded, and pouted. “Doesn’t Cassio…uh…”

“Cassiopeia?”

“Yeah. Doesn’t that start with a ‘C’? Or, like, a ‘K’?”

“Uh…it doesn’t work that way,” he said, reminding himself who he was talking to. “The constellation was named after Andromeda’s vain queen mother, who dared to compare herself and her daughter to the gods. They weren’t amused, and they punished Cassiopeia by putting her up in the night sky. See?” he pointed out, “Can you imagine her chained to a throne up there?”

Despite Jay’s obvious mansplaining and the fact that that ‘W’ definitely did not look like a chained-up queen, Melissa was nonetheless impressed by his storytelling. To him, the heavens were miraculous. She hadn’t known this about Jay, before tonight, how he felt about astrology. Or had he said astronomy? Whatever. She could tell that the night sky, with its myriad of stars and patterns of constellations, gave him a sense of peace and belonging to something huge, and to him that was a comforting thought. But, to her the stars made everything else feel smaller, and herself less significant in the grand scheme of things. I don’t know if I like that.

He was going on and on about how beautiful they were, the stars, about how they were some celestial ‘miracle’. She on the other hand began thinking about him, and about their future. Strange ideas began to coalesce in her head. Well I guess I have to get more beautiful than the heavens, she thought, so he wants to look only at me.

Beside her, on her right, she felt him shiver. But he kept talking about the g-damn stars and he doesn’t even know he’s cold. 

She sat up a bit and rotated at the hips, turning towards him. Her right hand propped her up, while the other hand  took his wine - a stemless glass so it wouldn't spill as easily - off his chest where he’d held it balanced. His eyes, of course, shifted from the stars to her and he watched  as she began to slowly unzip her sweatshirt. She took her time revealing the bodice of her white dress and all the cleavage underneath her modest hoodie. She leaned over him, slowly putting his wineglass on his far side. Effectively, she blotted out his view of the sky, so he could no longer see the stars. He could see only her. I think they call this an eclipse. 

“Now, do you want to tell me about the dream you had?” she asked.

She watched his mind stop, and then start again. For her, there was enough light so she could read every little twitch on his face as he was brought back to remember the dream-thing.

“H-how did you know..?” he asked, suddenly confused.

“Call it…” she began, now placing her left hand down on the ground next to his right shoulder, planting it there and her massive breasts right above his face, “...women’s intuition.” She smirked, seeing how his attention was now one hundred percent focused on her. There you go, there are some heavenly bodies. Despite her distraction, she could tell that he was now more anxious, more freaked out, feeling more afraid having the events of the day rekindled. Even with the beautiful night and now the jaw-dropping scenery, he was having thoughts. Too many thoughts, sweetie, just speak. Tell mama your troubles. She could, of course, let herself flow. She could override his anxieties with her perfumes, loosen his tongue, maybe get him horny and placate him and then put him to bed. It was hard to get him to open up on his own; pheromones could make it easy. But she knew she should maybe try it the old fashioned way…talking.

She knew the dream hadn't been normal. There was something off about it, something crafty. Brianna and Sammi had worked with it, but she could tell there was more to it and she wanted to find out what it was, where it really came from, and the only way to do that was to let him talk.

To Melissa he began to describe the dream he had earlier today, when he’d passed out from the shock of finding his apartment ransacked.  “It was a good dream, I was in control, I felt healthy and good,” he explained, after describing how he’d lifted the vending machine off of…who was that again? “I was…everyone was…back to, like, normal, I guess.”

“Mmmm, okay….” Melissa purred. She took the moment to lift her left hand, brush a lock of hair behind his ear. He was, basically, speaking right up into her breasts. Each of them was quite a bit bigger than his head. ”Like you were back to being the boss, huh? Really in charge?” she asked, “What’s that feel like to think about now, hm Jay?”

That brought him pause. Under the hovering mass of her bosom he pictured being taller again, the girls all back to their normal heights. He imagined being able to march out of his office and tell them the way things were going to be like it was, early in his dream. 

His stomach turned.

“It makes me feel weird.” Did he just say that out loud?

In her mighty chest, Melissa’s heart swelled. Rather than laugh, sigh, or drop down to lovingly smother the life out of her precious little lover-man, she pressed on. “So, what happened in the dream next?” she asked. Below her, she felt his mind squirm, looking for an out. His stammering started, and he became even more evasive as he remembered what happened after Others had taken the reins of his half-conscious state. “Then,” she heard him say, “it turned into a nightmare.”

It distressed him, obviously, to recount what happened, but he did his best. Unlike most dreams, where images and feelings disappear almost immediately upon awakening, this one had stuck with him. He was able to describe how he felt surrounded, the crackling alarm of the radio, and how he had shrunk. Shrunk shrunk shrunk while…uh…

“While what, honey?” she asked.

While shrinking up to a tiny cretin on your ass, while your friends watched.

She could tell how embarrassed he was, how ashamed he was.  She would spare him the indignity of making him speak more about it. What she could see roiling around in that adorable little head of his, though imperfect, told her all that she needed to know. In the meantime he was shivering below her and she wanted nothing more than to just make him warm. ”Well, that was the dream, sweetie, and this is now,” she assured him, allowing the first zephyrs of perfume to waft from her chest, “But tell me…what else is bothering you?”

Oh my god, where to start. With a sigh - and a deep breath - he began to list his litany of stresses, past the nightmare, past the apartment. There was seeing Sheryl, there was whatever happened this weekend, and of course there was his health. He was still fucking shrinking.

She could feel his unease, how emasculated he felt admitting it to her again. She tried her best not to let it excite her too much, because it made her feel a little bad. But she couldn’t help but explore this just a little, this growing size difference between the two of them and what it was doing to his psyche. ”Does me getting taller freak you out too?”

Sparks and jitters, between them both. Unconsciously she was letting her body lower itself, her shapely torso approaching his face. The open sides of her hoodie draped on either side of his head, closing him in. She expected him to start to fuss, to bleat out his complaints, to voice what she suspected any man would who found their girlfriend towering nearly two feet taller than them. 

“Y-you getting taller? Freak me out?” he repeated, breathing in the warmth from her bosom, allowing its comforting air to start to cradle him, “n-n-no…” He paused. “I kinda like it.”

OOOooooo

She couldn’t help it, that excited her. A new wave of pheromones flowed off her chest and she inched in closer to him. 

”H-how about the other girls?” she asked, hearing the arousal in her own voice, “Have you seen how much they’re growing?” Purposefully, she drew a deep breath, so that her expansive swath of cleavage now bulged and burgeoned and all but utterly burst in front of him. She knew that she was all he could see, that even in the dark she filled his world. Fuck the stars, she thought, look at me. “Growing…”

“a-a-are they?” he stammered, and his mind was racing. He was anxious, now, the blur of a weekend rising in its pink, murky haze, women swelling inside of it, just beyond the reach of his vision. What was going on? What was wrong with his head?!?

She knew what he was thinking. He was thinking he needed to see a therapist.

“Honey, baby,” she purred, “I’m going to get you some help. We’ll have our own therapist, a whole team of them, in the new wing. We’re going to get you the best therapy in the world…” Her nipples were hardening.

“O-okay…”

“I told you we have an appointment all set up for us,” she said, beginning to get breathless, imagining it all, knowing what they were going to be able to do together, “we’re going to help you regress, regress…”

“Oh my god, Melissa…” he groaned, suddenly sounding overcome..

Haha I didn’t even realize my hand was down there.

“...it’ll be so good for you…”

Might as well stroke him. She’d undid the tie for his scrubs, her hand was in his pants.

“...we’re going to get rid of allll that stress…”

Oh god he’s so hard for me. Jesus…

“…get you some regression therapy.”

She could no longer help herself, she needed to do this. Smoothly, swiftly, Melissa sat all the way up. She’d reached under his thin body and spun him towards her. His head and his shoulders were on her lap. There we go, that’s better.

“In the meantime you’re gonna get some me therapy,” she said remembering her talks with Shanette. Her hand reached to gather the thin blanket that had been underneath him and was still underneath her and his lower body. She wrapped it around him, using it to bundle him to herself, while at the same time lowering the neckline of her dress below her left breast, and pulling her breast out of her bra. “Here you go, here you go sweetie, you remember this,” she breathed, arousal making her voice more husky, deeper, “boob therapy, nipple sucking, dry nursing…let me make you feel better.”

She felt him, below the wrap of the thin blanket, balk at the idea of dry nursing. He was irritable and just shocked and a bit resistant because of his silly pride. But she knew it wouldn’t take much.

“It’s just you and me here…” she whispered to him, to the little papoose of a man she held in her arms. She swaddled him to her more tightly, allowing the full heavy flesh of her breast to squash against his little face.  “I know you’re nervous, I know you don’t know how this can help…” she purred, “...but you might be forgetting how endowed I am.”

At that, she leaned down into him, gathered her shoulders around him. Under the blanket, his entire world must now be boob. She let her warmth flow over him, let her perfumes cradle him and become his oxygen. She was all he needed, she knew that. “More nipple sucking,” she said, “I want more nipple sucking.”

She cooed, she moaned and shivered when she felt, from under the blanket, his mouth come around her and begin to suck. Just a few sucks at first, but then he repositioned and really latched on. Oh my god, Jay, yes. Yes yes yes little man, suck on mommy. He began to dry-nurse in earnest.

Suddenly, she began to silently curse her clothes, and she utterly despised his. They should be naked, out here, the two of them in the night. She considered ripping his from him, and flexing herself so maybe she could burst right from her own. But no, the moment was gentle, she could have him this way. Her hand went back down into his pants, and their cuddling progressed. They were quiet, for a while, he just suckling on her, the two of them just happy and content to be this close. In her mind, she began seeing the picture being painted, a portrait of what life could be like for them. She’ll keep him home safe and happy and healthy while she helps build the great big new world around him. He’ll have no worries, no responsibilities. It’ll be his purpose to be drowned in pleasure. 

At some point, he came in her hand. He soiled his pants. At another point, he came again. He napped, she thought, for a short time, only to awake and start suckling again. She cooed and clucked and told him what a good boy he was, over and over and over again. She looked up, after a time, to see that clouds had moved in. Oh, all your pretty little stars are gone. It was like they had retreated, in deference to her. I guess I’m  your whole universe now. She giggled, and snuggled him tighter. 

In her comforts, he’d began to drift. She knew he was tiring, and that he should really sleep, for real.

“Oh, sweetie, Jay darling, it’s getting late…” she said, pride swelling at the motherly tone she heard in her own voice, “maybe we should get you home. You wanted to go home, right?”

From below the blanket, from at her breast, she heard only a whine. His body tensed, a bit, in her arms.

She smiled.

“What? What’s that?” she asked, a wry curl now coming to her lips, her dimples, “I couldn’t hear you honey.”

More whining, from him, a mewl and whimper.

She kept herself from laughing. You’re too adorable. “Aw, you don’t want to go home tonight, do you?” she asked.

At her breast, nipple still in his mouth, he shook his head.

“No, you don’t, I didn’t think so,” she purred, “That’s okay sweetie, you can stay with me. I’m all the therapy you need. It’s been hard, so hard for you. I just want to make you feel better.”

Immediately, he was relaxing. And at that, she allowed herself another giggle.

“Are you excited to come to bed with mama tonight?” she asked.

More movement, his head at her breast, nodding. Yes.

Oh my god she could almost hear it. She could almost really hear it: yes mommy.

“Good, good boy,” she purred, petting him through the blanket, “And what do you want to do with mama tonight, hm? What do you want to do together?”

To that, to her question, he just murmured, and burrowed further into her breast, suckling, nuzzling. But, this time, she could hear his thoughts, clear as day his answer, a single word: 

this.

===========================================

thanks once more to RiF for editing, inspiration and contribution to this one, along with brother Ankle4u for the base image in the IG Stargazing thingy.

[heyyallitsbeth]

Ghost of You

The sun beamed down on the two lovers resting on a giant mushroom top in Alfheim Online. They had been working on clearing a bunch of side quests with their party that day. But to one of the two, it felt off. His movements were sluggish, his body disconnected from the avatar it resided in. To most, it would seem normal, his movements still had the disciplined form of someone who had spent his life training in combat, despite him giving up the sword in the real world long ago. But to his partner, both in combat and in soul, she could tell he was struggling. 

“Kirito, are you feeling alright?” The autumn-haired girl stoked the dark hair of the noir boy who laid his head on her stomach.

“Hmm? Yeah everything’s fine Asu, why?” While his demeanor was calm, she could tell there was something eating him up inside.

“Honey, I’m your wife, and your partner too. If there’s anything troubling you, I’ll be right by your side to fight it with you.” The raven haired spriggan closed his eyes and weakly smiled. He knew that Asuna was his true other half, a partner in life and in love, but he was worried about something that might tear them apart.

“Asuna… I need to convert my account over again. I might be gone for a bit, so if you could… While I’m gone, please give Yui and Strea twice the amount of love as normal.” He thought of his daughters, and hated the thought of needing to leave them behind for any time, but he knew there was something he had to face alone.

“Of course honey, but call them every night at least okay?”

“Heh, been doing that since we escaped SAO. I can promise that won’t change one bit.” But some other things might.” He left the thought to himself, he wasn’t ready to commit to any real change, but he needed to see the truth for himself.

“Do you need me to look after Excalibur for you? You lost most of your items the last time you converted over…”

“Haha, nah that’s not an issue. Sinon's already got that covered, after all, it’s her sword, she just knighted me with it.” He laughed seeing the flustered face of his wife, even though their situation was more open and fluid than most, she still got a little jealous of the girl’s hanging off of him, especially the teal sniper who taunted the two of them the most. “And if she converts, it should default to Yui now since she’s taken my inventory any other time I convert.”

“Alright, we should get back to the others to continue the quests now, good chance for you to say bye before you log off for a while anyway.”

“Of course. Dontcha go marryin someone else without my permission first~”

“H-hey!”

“Oh come on, I’ve seen how Liz stares at ya Asu. I’m sure she’ll take great~ care of you while I’m gone~” He giggled, imagining the sight of his wife and Liz locked in an embrace together.

“Even if she does, you’ll still always be my beloved partner, promise~”

“Heh. Didn’t take much convincing- you’re so cute.”

The spriggan rested on the undine, never wanting to leave her. But today, he needed to face his fears. Alone. A mission for the solo player. 

…

A year prior, an event stuck itself to Kirito’s brain like a parasyte. He could never fully escape the thought of it. He had logged into Gun Gale Online in order to investigate the DeathGun case. Due to the gacha system that determined avatars in the game, Kirito had awoken to the sight of his hair in his face. Long streaks of grey locks adorned him, framing his soft face. Staring at his reflection in the windows of nearby shops in the dark brutalist environment, he noticed things in himself he was afraid of. His figure was soft and feminine, far from the typical soldier of this world. It was not too dissimilar to his real life appearance, but the pronounced hips and narrow shoulders made him shift in place uncomfortably. He stared at his visage, noting he looked as if he was Sugu’s big sister instead of her big brother. He slowly met his own gaze. His eyes had always been a dark grey, something his adoring sister always teased him for, calling him a zombie with the dead gaze that adorned him. But that day he saw something different in them, where a blank glaze once covered his view, there were now highlights visible for the first time, and a deep purple hue that left him breathless. He grasped at his chest over his heart and was hit with a deep pain, and an even deeper longing. But he had to move forward, he had a mission.

A week ago Kazuto had been out with his sister Suguha, though they were only related tangentially as cousins. That became something Kazuto had become fixated on, as throughout their day out, multiple people had stopped them, asking if they were twin sisters. Kazuto didn’t look his age due to his years in Sword Art Online, his body permanently stunted by his inability to move for so long. But he was really wondering if he truly looked that similar to Suguha because of it. He recalled that as he was young, they were confused for twin girls all the time, but they were younger then… It made sense right? Kazuto stole an old skirt from Suguha’s closet one day as she was out practicing kendo. She hadn’t worn it in years, he figured she wouldn’t notice if it were gone… He slipped it on and stared himself in the mirror that spanned the back of his bedroom door. Despite the clear difference in their “endowment” Kazuto had seen as bright as day the connection. Even if his chest wasn’t voluptuous, even if his hips weren’t as pronounced, he saw the obvious connections between him and his sister. His face was soft and round like hers. And in the center of it all, he saw it again, his dead eyes replaced with the loving purple gaze he’d seen back in Gun Gale. He threw off the skirt in a fit of anger at himself. He stashed it beneath his bed, he didn’t wanna look at it. But… his heart longed for something regardless.

Today, as Kirito logged out of Alfheim Online, he converted his account over to Gun Gale Online once more. He needed to spend more time there… She needed to see herself again. 

…

A dark raven was prone atop a clocktower, aiming down at the streets below. Through the scope of their Hecate sniper rifle, they could nearly see the stubble on the men in the party stories below them.

BANG!

A single clean shot had decimated two of the party members.

“I’ve gotten good with this thing… heh.” The shadowy figure smiled to themselves as they lined up another shot. “Maybe now I can give her that duel I promised…”

BANG!

A full party wiped in such a short amount of shots. Too easy. The slender gargoyle on the roof brushed their long locks behind them, the deep grey shimmered with silver highlights despite the soot and ash coating it. Suddenly, they heard someone ascending the wall in front of them. They prepped their shot, but they were caught off guard by a blur of seafoam green, before their eyes met a familiar smiling face in their scope.

“Hey Sinon, come here often?” A playful taunt escaped their lips.

“Yes actually, I do believe you’re in my spot after all Kirito.” She giggled, a sight Kirito had grown to love as Sinon had opened up more and more. “I’m surprised you’re using a real weapon instead of wildly flailing your photon sword about.”

“Oh you just miss seeing me with my sword in my hands dontcha?” Sinon blushed and angrily pouted, another adorable sight. “Well, my lovely partner here in GGO taught me so much, I figured I’d honor her by using the same weapon as I practiced. I need to give ya a good duel sometime after all.~”

As he grew closer to each of his friends, the one-sided teasing evolved into a playful banter between them, learning how to push each and every one of their buttons.

“So that’s why you left ALO huh? Trying to get a headstart on training for our next B.O.B. huh?”

“I think you’ve got years ahead of me Sinonon~ One week away won’t save me. But truthfully that’s not the full reason.” Their eyes shifted away from Sinon, and towards the floor before smirking and shaking the thought away.

“I’d hope so, it’d be such a shame if my Star-Crossed Soldier was training without me~” She playfully pouted at Kirito.

Ever since the last B.O.B. ended, article after article dubbed the two winners as the Star-Crossed Soldiers, after Kirito’s embrace with Sinon in the trials, their close encounters in the cave and Sinon’s literal fiery embrace at the end to claim their tied victory. Liz had given Kirito an earful before the articles came out with how close he’d been to Sinon, but after the nickname appeared online, Kirito became convinced Liz and Asuna would actually kill him. Up until Asuna proposed the poly arrangement at least.

“Jeez, don’t let Asu hear you callin’ me that, otherwise I won’t be the only one getting pierced by her rapier.”

“Oh don’t worry, I’m not lookin’ to get inbetween ya- in that way at least~” The look she gave Kirito with that comment seemed to literally take health off the poor player.

“Anyways, why’re you here if not to train to win over me?”

“...” Kirito shifted his look away from her, and with that motion he accidentally revealed the accessories adorning his hair. Sinon snickered.

“Ah, I see you’re just here to play dress up huh?” Her eyes wandered and looked over the rest of the boy. He still had his trademark carbon fiber cloak, but now his outfit beneath was…

“Kirito… is that my outfit in black and silver?”

The noirette blushed a vibrant crimson, and smiled.

“I think there’s someone you need to meet Shino.” The girl was surprised by Kirito’s use of her real name ingame. He typically tried to refer them as their avatar’s name. This was deeper, this was personal to her. 

Shino grabbed the hands of the shadow before her and looked into it’s eyes.

“I think I know who you mean.” She smiled with pride as they drew closer. “What’s your name? Who is my partner in this world?”

The eyes of purple and blue had met, a synthetic gaze between them escalated into a whirlwind. In a moment, they were back in that cave again, holding eachother close, the heat of their bodies pressed against eachother.

“In this world… And all others… My name is Kiriko.”

With those words, Sinon saw Kiriko revert back to how she saw her initially. Another girl, just like her.

They spent the next week training for the upcoming B.O.B. ingame, and shopping for Kiriko in the real world. The night of the battle, Kiriko had stayed at Shino’s apartment, so they could celebrate their victory.

…

A flurry of gunshots was silenced by the cruel end of a photon sword. Despite her training with a sniper, Kiriko decided to return to the classics for most of the match. Her and Sinon made for a perfect duo as front line and supporting fire. Her favorite moment had been when Sinon and her had been cornered, with Sinon facing her while she had her back to two enemies. Sinon fired at Kiriko, and she split the bullet just like in their trial duel, with the two pieces finding their home in the skulls of their attackers. It was a game now, just for fun, and they wanted to perform.

“I suppose that is the last of them huh?”

“Suppose so.”

The two stood against the other, scratched, bruised, covered in virtual blood of both their own, and of others. And now with all cameras on them. 

“You ready to give the girls at home a show Kiriko?”

They smiled devilishly at each other.

“Always.”

In a swift movement, Kiriko removed her heavy black cloak, revealing the matching outfit with Sinon’s own. It was practically bikini armor, except for soldiers instead of for knights, despite Sinon’s insistence it wasn’t. Sinon revealed a photon sword of her own, and as the cloak hit the dusty ground behind Kiriko, both lept towards eachother with fire in their eyes. The clash of purple and green blades sent small debris around them flying, each strike was more powerful than the last. But it was less of a duel, and more of a dance. Every movement, despite the power, was elegant, with perfect footwork and seamless motion. They circled eachother, blade against blade. With every strike forward, the other responded with a dodge and their own strike. Neither had grazed the other, only their sword’s connecting the two. The chorus of slashes against slashes sent both blade’s flying, as Kiriko caught Sinon’s and Sinon caught Kiriko’s, and they continued their masquerade. They drew closer and closer together, despite the blade’s repelling eachother, their bodies had called to eachother. In a flash both lights extinguished, and the two embraced. They smiled at eachother, aware of the camera right beside their faces. They closed their eyes and their lips clashed against eachother. Love blooming on the battlefield. Sinon pressed Kiriko’s blade against her back, and ignited it, impaling the two of them together, as they tied another B.O.B.

…

The pair awoke from their brawl back in the real world. Both had imprints on their faces from where their Amusphere’s had sat on them. They giggled to eachother as they traced the marks, holding eachother’s faces. 

“I’m glad you got Asu’s approval before all that, I know that Liz’ll still tear both of us apart though” Sinon snicked, imagining the pink leprechaun’s stunned face watching their dance.

“Hehe, yeahhhhh. Just because me and Asuna are poly doesn’t mean the jealousy’ll ever just up and leave. Liz is probably upset that I managed to steal both Asuna and you for myself.” 

“Oh I think she’ll be more jealous of me, after all, I was the first one with the new girl in the group.” She laughed at the thought, knowing all of the girls’ not-so-subtle-crushes. 

“Oh yeah, speaking of, I guess tonight they all get to meet Kiriko at the party in ALO huh?”

“As long as you’re not nervous, and I’ll be there supporting you always.”

“With you by my side, I’ll always be ready. Let’s hop over and meet them.”

An evil grin reached Shino’s lips.

“Welllllll you and I both need to transfer our accounts back over, so you should set that up real quick.”

“Right, right of course. Better not keep them waiting-”

Kiriko turned away from Shino to her laptop, starting the slow transfer of their accounts. With her attention away, Shino slipped out of her top and pajama bottoms, and waited for Kiriko’s full undivided attention.

“Alright we should be good in around twenty minu- HUH!”

Kiriko’s face was lit ablaze by the sight of the scantily clad girl infront of her.

“Hehehe, whatcha waitin for? I know we got the cash prize, but it’s time for our real~ reward now.”

She unbuckled the back of her bra and let the garment slip down, exposing her modest, but perky chest with a light bounce.

“We won’t keep them waiting long- but I already told Asuna- I get first dibs tonight- which means I get first ever dibs on Kiriko~”

She pounced on Kiriko, pinning her to the bed. 

They showed up in Alfheim, an hour later than everyone expected.

…

Sinon entered the main living space of the home their party had shared. Luckily everyone was enjoying themselves already, but she still stammered out an apology for being so late. 

“Jeez, is Kirito not coming?” Liz said in a huff. “I suppose he just doesn’t wanna show after that little stunt you two pulled.”

Sinon blushed heavily, knowing that stunt was far from the worst thing they’d done. Asuna crept behind Sinon and pulled her in, kissing her on the cheek.

“Mwah~ That’s for stealing away my poor innocent Kirito~” She playfully toyed with the cat, happy with the new arrangement they’d found. But the cat’s face lit up, imagining how there was no innocence left in either of their bodies laying beside eachother in the real world. She shook the thought away.

“Hehe, just borrowing her~ she’s yours again tonight”

The party went silent

“HER?!”

As if on queue, a new cait sith appeared from the door. She was adorned with a black cloak and risque armor set. Her signature long grey hair fell down her back, looking just like Kirito in GGO. And she could barely look up at the party as she announced “H-hey everyone. My name’s Kiriko…”

Before anyone had the chance to say anything, Asuna, Yui and Strea all embraced the girl.

“Yayyyyy I get two mommies now!” Yui cheered

“Ah well that explains the armor choices…” Leafa sputtered out.

“We leave Sinon alone with Kiriko for a week and she comes back a girl… Yeah that tracks actually.” Liz was practically beaming.

“I was wondering about Kiriko’s choice of attire in GGO… But now I can’t wait to see her choices in here~” Philia dreamed of all the different event cosmetics and rare treasures Kiriko could now be adorned in.

Silica and Argo were hovering around the new cait sith in their presence. 

“So was I the only one who suspected Kii-gal was a girl?”

“Maybe! But now I get an adoptive big sister!” 

“Hey! Kiriko’s my actual big sister!”

“We can share!”

The crowd started talking inbetween themselves, talking about all the fun things they can do now that Kiriko’s a girl, and Asuna took this as an opportunity to pull her to the side.

“So this was what you were worried about earlier huh?”

“I was worried that you’d leave when you found out what I’d been going through… I’m glad I can still be yours.”

“Oh honey… I love you, husband, wife, partner, I didn’t fall in love with a boy, I fell in love with you. The hero who saved us from Aincrad, and the caring parent to our kids. This is just a new side of you I get to love, and I’m going to love every second of learning about you Kiriko. Now ummm. After the party can I head over? It’s been a bit since we um.”

“Heh- about that… If you wanna head over, you’ll have to ask Shino if she’s okay with you staying…”

“Sh-Shino? Are you diving from her apartment?”

“Hahaha, well, she did call first dibs…”

Asuna laughed and pulled Kiriko into a kiss. She was glad that Kiriko was still hers, even if she was being shared between a few others. Since for the both of them, regardless of all the others they would come to love, they were still that happy couple from back in Aincrad, soulmates from then, to forever.

[merajsblog]

"y/n y/n!!" you hear your friend shout, bolting through the classroom. you startle, looking up at your loud friend. "Are you doing something after school?" she says inquisitively looking at you, her hands on your desk. you frown slightly, cocking your head to the side. "no, I don't think so why?" you didn't have practice after school today. you were slightly sad it was your day off and you would probably be busy again.

her hands slam down on your desk once again. "PLEASE come to the boys' volleyball club game today." she says, with the most hopeful look on her face. Your friend was a manager of the fukurodani volleyball club.

"i would love to, but could you tell me why?" you say raising an eyebrow. "is it because your little crush is there..." you say with a smirk, elbowing her side. she had the biggest crush on the ace of the team, Bokuto. he was a force to be reckoned with as his bellows rang down the classroom halls. she immediately blushes, stuttering as she exclaims "n-no! i just need help because the other manager won't be here today, and i NEEEED help!!" she whines. you roll your eyes, "okay, okay i can come help you." you say giving an exasperated sigh. you hadn't seen the boys' team that often and watching them play might give you some creativity for your own plays on the girls' volleyball team.

୨♡୧

after the last bell rang, you stepped into the gym. the familiar sounds of the ball smacking against hands and the floor rang through the air. your friend was already sitting on the bench, talking to the coach. you hadn't brought a change of clothes out of your uniform considering you thought you would be headed home right after school. you casually walked over, your bag still on your shoulder.

"oh! y/n, you're here thank GOD!" she exclaims. "coach this is y/n, the captain of the girls' volleyball team!" she says, a little too loud. it felt like the whole gym went quiet.

"oh, haha yea, I heard that you guys were down a manager and she asked if she could get my help." you chuckle nervously.

"boy's, team meeting really quick!!" the coach bellows in the silence. the sound of squeaking fills the air as they shuffle closer. you immediately spot bokuto, how could anyone miss him and his horned hair. your friend is beaming, staring maybe a little too hard at him.

"bokuto, where is akaashi?" coach states, his head on a swivel looking for him.

"oh i think he's coming a little late..." and right in the middle of that sentence, your jaw drops. akaashi is entering the gym, his dark black hair soaking up the sun. his grey eyes dart around the gym before landing on you. your eyes are wide, mouth slightly hanging open.

"sorry coach, i was helping someone with homework after class ended." he says, standing by bokuto. While coach is talking about the game, your heart is pounding. how did your friend hang around her crush for so long, you figured your heart would go out if you stayed around here any longer.

"...and thank you y/n l/n for stepping up as a manager for today. she is the captain of the girl's volleyball team, so she won't go easy on you." he says grinning.

you give a half-hearted chuckle. they shout their thank-yous before returning to their practice. your still stood there. even the way his voice sounded was smooth and velvety, like music to your ears.

"if you need help with anything please just let me know. some people on this team can be quite a handful at times." says akaashi, as he is approaching you. he is looking at you, his grey eyes feel like they are piercing you. he gives you a small smile before turning around too.

"ooo what was that!" your friend says, elbowing you now. you immediately fall apart, shushing her. well, if you had known that this guy was going to be on the team you would have said yes to helping out so fast. the way he played was calm and collected, but still calculating. he was the setter, playing beautifully with his hands.

not long had gone by, before you heard a knock on the door. it seemed as though only you had heard it. you turn, opening the door. Nekoma is stood there, all bundled up in their red clothing. the cold winter air, nipped at you.

"hi! are you guys here for the game?" you question, opening the door a little more. you feel a warm presence behind you, a hand being placed on the gym door. your met with golden eyes, and ridiculously tall boys.

"could you redirect them to the locker room really quickly while we clean up in here. they need to drop their stuff off anyways." you hear akaashi's voice in your ear. you turn looking at him wide-eyed. his hand is placed on the gym wall next to you, as he leans over your shoulder, almost whispering in your ear.

"oh, yea I can do that." you say, inches away from his face. his grey eyes are just beautiful, making it incredibly hard to look away as your eyes lock with his. you give him a small smile, and you watch the corner of his mouth lift before he pulls away.

you were curious as to where this was going.

p.s there will be a pt.2 because im feeling quirky.