#happy midterm week to all who celebrate !

[avornalino]

5 day weekend starting tmr so maybe ill have time to actually play some freaking games for once in my miserable student life

[heavyhitterheaux]

Birthday Cake (NSFW)

See Me Through You Series

But he wanna lick the icing off (The icing off)

I know you want it in the worst way (The worst way)

Can't wait to blow my candles out

Synopsis: Your nineteenth birthday is considered a national holiday when it comes to your boyfriend celebrating you; and you got exactly what you wanted. The two of you not leaving the bed for three days straight.

Series Masterlist

Please Do Not Repost My Content Anywhere

Do not engage if you are underage

Glancing at the clock on your phone as you got settled into Joe’s bed, you saw that the time read 11:55 PM. For as long as you could remember, it was a tradition for you and Ja’Marr to wait until midnight so that you could be the first ones to tell each other happy birthday even if that meant being tired in school.

However, this year because of it being the week before midterms, the two of you would simply facetime each other and planned to celebrate the weekend after.

“Babe! You’re going to miss it! What are you doing?!” You yelled out hoping that he heard you from wherever he was in the apartment.

“I still have five minutes!”

“What is even going on?!”

“Don’t worry about it, you’ll see when I walk in there.” Joe yelled back and you shook your head as you facetimed Ja’Marr.

He gave you a huge smile once your face came into view and you quickly returned it.

“Why does it look like you need your hair done when I literally just did it last week?” Was how you greeted him.

He rolled his eyes and the smile quickly turned into a frown.

“That’s how you greet me minutes before our birthday?”

“Yes, because I need an explanation. Mommy is going to think that I don’t take care of you and I won’t hear the end of it.” You said as you sat all the way up from being on your side. You loved your parents through and through, but they needed to start making their other twin be more responsible because everything did not depend on you.

“Look, these classes have been kicking my ass.”

“And you obviously haven’t been tying it up at night because I can see the lint from a mile away. You went outside looking like that? I'm disappointed.”

“Pebbles! So damn unhinged and outta pocket.”

“I’m just calling it like I see it. So when I call her later, I’m going to tell her that you did it to yourself and I’m not doing it again for a month. She can come and do it if there's a problem.”

“I’ll just get Jazmine to do it.” Ja'Marr told you and you instantly gave him the side eye.

“And who the FUCK is that?! Fine, get one of those little fast ass girls to deal with your tender headed ass. I hope the parts are crooked since your big sis isn’t good enough.”

“You LITERALLY just said you weren’t doing it!”

“I’ll do it, you don’t have to beg. Just give me my usual payment.”

“Honey old bay wings, 10 count, all flats with extra ranch.”

“Love you, Bam Bam. Especially when you aren't getting on my nerves.”

Joe made his presence known when he walked in the bedroom with a single cupcake that had one candle in it making you smile.

“Aww! Is this what you were doing?” You asked as you attempted to take it away from him and bite it, but he quickly moved his hand away.

“The matches kept going out and I can't find my lighter so yes, that's what took me so long. And you have two minutes. You can wait two minutes to eat it.”

“Joe! Where's mine!? It's not only your girlfriend's birthday. She has a twin if you haven't noticed! And that twin is the reason you two are together.” Ja’Marr exclaimed and you positioned the phone so that he could see both of you.

“Still at the store. You might get it later, might not.”

“I am seriously tired of the two of you bullying me.”

“Seriously? This is what you call bullying?” Joe asked between his laughing fit.

“Ever since I introduced you two, all you both do is gang up on me.”

“Hmm, you're not wrong because someone has to keep you in check. Okay, one minute left! And go! Say your wish!” You replied and it looked as if he was thinking.

“Hmm, my wish for year 19 is to get more sexy.” He told you as he wiggled his eyebrows and that prompted you to make a gagging noise.

“Ew, okay now for mine, since my wish is actually realistic.”

“PEBBLES!”

“Ja’Marr, you stay catching strays from your sister.”

“She's been giving me hell since we've been in the womb. Why do you think she was born first? You know I was born with a black eye because she punched me because she wanted to go first.”

“Ja’Marr, shut up because you sound ridiculous and listen to my wish.”

“Can't sound so ridiculous if it's true.”

“I'll eat your cupcake Joe got you if you don't be quiet.”

“I… Fine. You bully me and then bribe me with food.”

“Ignoring you. Anyway, I wish for endless happiness for year 19, and to promise to put myself first.” You whispered the last part, but knew for a fact that Joe heard you since he looked over at you.

However, the look on your face was quickly replaced with a smile when Joe suddenly kissed your cheek and handed you your cupcake.

“Happy birthday, princess.”

“Thank you! And wait, this actually stayed lit this entire time? What kind of matches do you have?” You asked Joe as you finally blew it out and began to eat it.

“And happy birthday uno!”

“Thank you, I was just sitting here patiently, waiting to be acknowledged since now I am clearly the third wheel and my sister has stolen you from me.”

“I'm prettier, so deal with it. Popeyes dumpster baby.” You playfully said as you stuck out your tongue and lifted your middle finger into the camera so he could see it.

“I'm going to remember that. Wait until I get drafted. I'm not going to give you a PENNY.”

“Sure, Bam Bam. Keep telling yourself that.” You told him as Joe was trying to sneak a taste of icing, but you moved the cupcake out of his reach.

“Anyway, happy birthday big sis. I have to get up early and go to class since I've only gone twice this week.”

Your eyes went wide and you were about to yell when Ja’Marr held up a finger to cut you off while Joe swiped some icing as you were distracted.

“Please don't yell at me. I know.”

“You'll get off this time and this time only. But happy birthday little brother. I love you even if you get on my last nerve. Joey! Did you eat some of my icing?”

“No.” Joe quickly told you and you swiped the icing that was in the corner of his mouth and held it up as evidence to show him.

“How'd that get there?” He asked, but you rolled your eyes and ignored him as he licked it off your finger and you playfully hit him.

“I love you too and I plan on getting on your nerves forever.”

Once you hung up the phone, you plugged it in before placing it on the nightstand before turning back to your boyfriend who was smiling at you.

“You want your nineteen kisses now or later?” He asked as he pulled you closer and wrapped his arms around you.

“Is there a limit of how many times I can get those kisses? Like 19 now and then 19 later? Or multiple times later?”

“The limit does not exist.” He told you and a laugh immediately escaped.

“I think I've made you watch Mean Girls too many times. But I'll take some now and then take some later.”

“As you wish, birthday girl.” Joe whispered against your lips before placing a total of five kisses on them.

“But I should tell you that your lips aren't the only place that I can put those kisses. It's wherever you want.” Joe trailed off as the kisses began to make their way down your neck.

“As tempting as that sounds, I'm not about to start something that I can't finish since I definitely have an 8 am class. Left up to me, we wouldn't leave your bed. And I also wouldn't wake up on time either despite me already setting my alarm.”

“Luckily for you since your birthday is on a Friday, we have all weekend.”

“Can I have my gifts now?”

“No, because I haven't wrapped all of them yet. It'll be later.”

“You literally don't need to wrap them.”

“Yes I do. The wrapping paper is Pooh Bear.” Joe replied as he placed one of your braids back into the bonnet that you were wearing since it had somehow tried to escape.

“Oh, carry on then.”

“It was between that, Powerpuff Girls and Care Bears.”

“Those are all good options and I would have been satisfied with whatever you had picked.”

“But I know you like Pooh Bear just a little bit more than the others.”

“No lies detected. But I do have one more request.”

“Anything for my pretty girl.”

“Goodnight kisses so that I can fall asleep.”

“With or without a clit massage?”

“I…. you know better.”

“I just thought I would offer my services anyway.”

“But like you said, there will be plenty of time for that.”

–

About fifteen minutes before your alarm was due to go off, you were still dead asleep and Joe had settled himself in between your thighs knowing that this was the perfect way to wake you up on your birthday.

It helped that he had easy access since you were literally only wearing one of his t-shirts with nothing underneath.

Joe lifted the shirt up to your waist before spreading your legs and making sure he had a strong hold on them before running his fingers along your folds.

At one point, you flinched, but didn't wake up as he slowly placed kisses up and down your inner thighs.

Once he got to the top and was once again face to face with your core, he opened his mouth to let his spit hit your clit and trickle down along your folds making sure you were wet enough for him before using his fingers along with his tongue to pleasure you.

He was honestly surprised that you hadn't woken up yet as he inserted one finger at the same time his tongue hit your clit.

Once again, you flinched in your sleep and didn't wake up from Joe's movements. What did wake you up was him inserting another finger with the slightest increase in pace as well as pressure.

As soon as Joe heard you gasp, he smirked to himself knowing that you were finally awake.

“Mm… baby….” You quietly said as your hands instantly went to his hair and lightly tugged on it to pull him closer.

As he was pleasuring you, your hands quickly released their hold on him to grab the bottom of Joe's shirt and pull it over your head now leaving you completely bare in front of him.

Once it was off and instantly forgotten since it had been thrown on the floor, your hands went back to being in Joe's hair as his spit mixed with your juices was running down his chin.

“Fuck!” You exclaimed as Joe was now sucking on your swollen clit as you kept squirming and wanting to cum in your boyfriend’s mouth while you began to play with your nipple rings. Which really did come in handy when it came to having sex with your boyfriend.

At one point, Joe caught you trying to inch away from him and quickly pulled you back making sure you didn’t roll off the bed onto the floor.

“Keep those legs spread, birthday girl and stop running away from me. Do it again and I'm punishing you later.”

“Baby, I'm close.”

“Could have fooled me. If you're so close, why are you running?” Joe asked as his fingers moved in and out of you waiting for an answer before reinserting his tongue.

All you could give him as a response were moans and whimpers and you knew it was only a matter of time before you squirted all over his face.

“Come on, birthday girl. Cum in my mouth.” Was the last thing you heard from Joe before he went back to sucking on your clit.

Well, Joe happened to get his wish as a gush of liquid blasted all over his face with you screaming at the top of your lungs, but he kept his tight hold on you knowing that you would once again try to get away from him.

Even as you were gushing liquid out all over his face, Joe didn't let up with sucking on your clit as you continued to listen to your protests and whimpers for him to wait.

“Babeeeee. Oh shiiiit.”

Joe got another face full of your juices and you were finally able to breathe out as you rested your right arm across your forehead and closed your eyes as Joe finally removed his fingers from you.

He tapped your cheek for you to open your eyes and once you did, you saw him holding up his fingers to your mouth which you gladly opened and sucked on tasting your juices.

“You taste so good, I swear I can't get enough.” He whispered against your lips before kissing them and slipping his tongue in your mouth.

When you two finally broke apart, he smirked at you before starting to play with your nipple rings.

“Oh, happy birthday, princess….again. Did you like the way I woke you up?” Joe asked, but before waiting for an answer, he took one of your nipples in his mouth and roughly sucked on it, making you gasp as he rolled the other one in between his fingers.

“Yes.” You breathed out as he switched to the other one giving it the same attention.

“Good, because there's a lot more where that came from. I just wanted to give you a preview since I know that I'm not going to see you until later.”

“How about another one?” You playfully asked as you looked at the time and Joe shook his head no making you pout.

“No, because I need you to have all your strength for later. And you also need to be able to pay attention in class.”

“Wait, what? And I'll be able to pay attention!”

“Don’t worry baby, you'll see. But for now get ready and go to class. The sooner you do, the sooner that you'll be back under me. And I don't believe that for a second.”

“So no other birthday plans?”

“I plan on feeding you your favorite Mexican food and fucking your brains out as you originally requested. Anything else? I also have your gifts for you which I know you're going to love once you see them.”

“No, I think that covers everything. I can't wait to see what you got me.”

“Good, because as soon as you get back, you won't be wearing clothes again until Monday.”

“I….” You started to say as your eyes went wide.

“I'm just doing what my girlfriend requested from me. Might as well do it this weekend before everyone steals you from me next week when midterms are over. Any complaints?”

“One has yet to cross my mind and I don't think one will.” You told him as you sat up and leaned forward to kiss him.

As you were sitting in class, paying attention was the last thing on your mind as you took a deep breath to ground yourself.

Your mind had been occupied with thoughts from earlier in the day and how Joe woke you up in the perfect way on your birthday.

Ever since you left Joe's apartment, the throb has been consistent between your legs no matter how hard you tried to focus. Class was nearing its end, when you pulled out your phone to send him a text.

You- Babe….

Joey- Yes, birthday girl?

You- I can't stop thinking about this morning and how you woke me up in the perfect way

Joey- Oh, really?

You- So much so that I am literally squeezing my legs together while sitting here and it's fucking throbbing. I can't make it until later.

Joey- Can't wait to taste you again, but you're going to have to baby

You- But WHY

Joey- You know why, but I promise that it'll be worth it

As soon as class was over, you raced to the bathroom and just as you expected when you pulled down your thong was nothing but wetness.

Wanting to send it to Joe for proof, you took two of your fingers soaking them before snapping the pic and sending it to Joe without warning.

You- Just in case you needed proof. Later can't come fast enough.

As soon as you sent it, it obviously took a few minutes for him to open it, but once he did the text bubble kept appearing and then disappearing making you laugh.

But when it finally did come through, there was nothing but a smirk on your face.

Joey- BABY I'M NOT BY MYSELF

You- And last time I checked I don't care. Did you like the pic? 🙂‍↕️

Joey- If your goal was to get me fucking hard in public, you succeeded

You- Good. Now put me through the mattress

Joey- Oh, I'm definitely doing more than that. I'm punishing you for that along with earlier when you tried to run away from me

You- I didn't run!

Joey- If I hadn't pulled you back on the bed, you would have fallen off

You- 😒😒😒

Joey- Just you wait till I get my hands on you

You- Is that a threat or a promise?

Joey- Princess, don't push me. It's both. Now you'll probably get back before me and you better be ready once I get there.

You- Can't wait 🤭

As soon as you sent the last text to Joe, your phone began to vibrate in your hand and it was none other than a facetime call from Erin.

When you hit accept, her and Alisha were holding a bunch of balloons and they both screamed, making you laugh.

“The birthday girl!! Hi, boo! Want to meet us for a quick lunch before your last class of the day?” Erin asked as she switched the view on her phone so that you could see where the two of them were.

And it happened to be one of your favorite food spots down the street from campus.

Mexican food twice on your birthday?

The answer was always going to be yes.

“Yes! Of course! Be there in a minute!”

Once you walked into the restaurant after taking the less than five minute drive and spotting them, they both placed you in a bone crushing hug before the three of you slid into the booth and you picked up a menu to see what you wanted.

Bottom line was that if you could, you would eat Mexican food everyday.

“So, how does it feel to be 19? Any different?” Alisha asked as she started to look over the menu as well and had her eyes in the appetizer section.

“The same, honestly.”

“What did Joe get you?” Erin curiously asked as you shrugged.

“I'm not sure yet, he hasn't shown me and said that I'll get them later. But… This morning…” You started to say, but then trailed off making both of them look at you.

“Girl, don't leave us in suspense. Out with it.”

“He woke me up by eating me out.” You told them as a smile that you were trying to contain broke out on your face.

“Damn, when is it my turn!? Joe looks like an EATER. If you know what I mean.” Erin asked and Alisha looked at her in disbelief.

“Being a hoe is literally your occupation. You've had plenty of turns. Anyway, go on.” Alisha told her and Erin quickly rolled her eyes.

“And I sent him a text while in class telling him that I couldn't wait any longer and he told me that I had no choice. So when class was over, I sent him a little picture when I went into the bathroom…”

“Oh, you nasty. I've taught you well! I'm so proud!”

“I knew you would be proud. And as of right now, I am going to get punished later for making him hard in public. He also mentioned that I won't be wearing clothes until Monday so there's that.”

“I cannot wait to hear about this on Monday. Assuming that you'll still be able to talk and tell the tale of what happened. Well, we might have to check in Tuesday because you're about to be down for the count.”

“But for now, we are celebrating one of the best people I know. Get anything you want, we're paying for it.”

“Aww, thanks you two. I don't want anything too heavy otherwise, I know I'm about to fall asleep in class. And apparently we're going over what's going to be on our midterm today and I really need to pass this class so I can get my internship next semester.”

“That’s fine. Whatever you want. I'm just… I know I say this like every few months, but this is honestly the happiest I've seen you.”

“At this point, we're just waiting for Joe to propose.”

“I think we are a long way from that happening.” You honestly said. You loved Joe with everything in you, but talking about marriage when you had freshly turned 19 was not on your priority list. You were seriously just trying to make it through your first year of college in one piece.

“Hmm, I don't think so but we'll see. That man is obsessed with you.” Alisha told you as your waiter set down a bowl of chips and salsa and waited to take your orders.

“What can I get for all of you?” She politely asked as Alisha and Erin gestured towards you.

“We'll let the birthday girl go first.”

—

The smile on your face was apparent as the phone vibrated in the back pocket of your jeans and you knew for a fact that it was your boyfriend.

You had literally just passed the threshold of his apartment and placed your backpack on the couch since he had told you to meet him there.

Joe had told you that he would get there a few minutes after you and he left the door unlocked so he told you to make yourself comfortable which you always did. However, that was a habit you were trying to break him out of since Joe you had noticed was a little too trusting sometimes.

Pulling out your phone, it was a simple text and you thought nothing of it when you had opened it and read it.

Joey- You there yet, pretty girl?

You- Yes, just walked in and putting my things away

Joey- Good, I just have a question for the birthday girl.

Now staring down at this text made the wheels in your head start turning.

You- What is it, babe?

Joey- You know that I love you and have the utmost respect for you, right?

You- Of course, bubs. I love you too. Why do you ask?

Joey- Because when I get there, it's probably going to look like I don't for a few minutes

As soon as you read it, you could feel the wetness growing in between your thighs and knew that it would take no time at all for the black thong that you were wearing to become soaked in your juices.

You- Wanna explain a little further? Even though I think I know where you're going with this.

Joey- Trust Me, baby. You have no idea where I'm going with this. Just be patient and be a good girl for me tonight. Promise to make it worthwhile and this will make up for Valentine’s Day. Be there soon.

Butterflies erupted in your stomach immediately as the excitement started to grow. You caught yourself reading over the conversation as you had gotten settled on Joe's bed.

Even if he stated that he would be back in a few minutes, you couldn’t wait any longer and found yourself peeling the leggings that you were wearing off of your body and throwing them on the floor which you knew in a matter of another twenty minutes would be piled high with the rest of your clothes along with Joe's.

Just as you thought, your thong was soaking wet as you lightly brushed two fingers along the outside of the material. Figuring that you wouldn't be needing them for the rest of the night, they were next to be thrown on the floor right next to your leggings.

Sucking two of your fingers until you were satisfied with how wet they were, you slowly inserted them and a quiet gasp was released from your mouth.

While one hand was occupied down below, you used your other hand to slowly rub and pinch your nipples underneath Joe's sweatshirt until they were rock hard underneath your fingers.

This had gone on for a few minutes and you knew that your orgasm was close until you suddenly heard your boyfriend’s voice startling you.

“Now this is a sight that I wasn't expecting. You started without me, princess?” He asked as he gave you a small smirk before licking his lips at the sight in front of him.

“Couldn't wait any longer.” You told him as you started to take your fingers out, but hearing his voice once more stopped you.

“No. Keep going until you finish. You look so pretty especially when you cum.” Joe replied as he came over to the bed and stroked your cheek.

“But I want you.”

“You'll have me, baby. All weekend. Now do as I say and make yourself cum. You started so finish. Let's see if you've been paying attention when I told you what to do when touching yourself on facetime.” Joe told you as he quickly took his sweatshirt off along with the shirt that he was wearing underneath and tossed it on to the growing piles of clothes next to his bed.

Listening to instructions, you started moving your fingers once more and knew that it wouldn't take too much longer since you had been so close before.

“That’s it. Keep going, baby. What did I also tell you to do when touching yourself?” Joe asked as he was now standing at the end of the bed with his gaze locked tightly on you.

“My clit.”

“What about it?”

“Pay it the most attention out of anything else.” You moaned out with your eyes now closed.

“Hmm, really? Then why aren't you doing it? Sooner you make yourself cum, the sooner you have me.”

As soon as he told you that, you moved your fingers to stroke your swollen clit, starting slowly at first and then increasing the pace of your movements.

“Oh, fuck.” You sighed as you know inserted the fingers of your other hand while still massaging your clit.

“You close, princess?”

“Yes, so close. So, so close.”

“Not close enough, obviously. Want to see those legs shaking.”

You peeked one eye open to see your boyfriend still at the bottom of the bed, except now his clothes were completely gone and he was slowly stroking his dick while keeping his eyes trained on you.

That was all the motivation you needed to send you over the edge.

“Shiiit.” Was all you could say after a few seconds while Joe climbed on top of you with a satisfied look on his face.

“Good girl, just like I told you.” He said as he leaned down to kiss you, with you instantly wrapping your arms around him.

“I have one of your gifts for you, you want to open it? It'll be useful a little bit later.”

Nodding your head yes, Joe reached over to open the drawer of his dresser and pulled out a box wrapped in Pooh Bear wrapping paper just like he told you it would be.

Handing it to you, you wasted no time in ripping off the paper, once all of it was off, you smirked at your boyfriend.

“Is this what I think it is?” You curiously asked as you looked up at him.

“Well what do you think it is?”

“A sex toy that you plan on using on me tonight.”

“Not just tonight, but all weekend. And yes, we have a winner. Been waiting to use it on you for almost an entire month.”

Examining it and moving it back and forth between your hands, you knew that it was a rose toy which people claimed would make them cum in a matter of seconds.

You honestly didn't know how much you believed that, but I guess you would find out tonight.

“You think you're recovered enough? You need as much rest in between before what I'm about to do to you.”

“I…”

“Don’t get nervous now. You begged for this. But seriously baby, if you want me to stop at any time, you need to promise to tell me. I love you and the last thing I ever want to do is hurt you. Got it?”

“I love you too and got it.” You told him as you nodded your head.

“Then I think it's finally time to get to the main event.” Joe said as he slowly backed up and was standing at the edge of the bed again before pulling you by your ankles as you let out a loud yelp.

“You remember what I told you?”

“That you respect me, but it's about to look like you don't for a few minutes.”

“Exactly.” Joe said at the same time before slowly entering you making you let out a gasp, and slowly moving all the way back out before slamming his hips into yours.

“Fuck!”

“Be quiet and don't make a sound until I tell you too.” Joe said as he was pounding into you.

In order to try and muffle your moans along with your screams, both of your hands went directly over your mouth making a tight seal and you prayed that it would be enough.

He was holding tightly onto you and sure enough, you had started to squirm making him abruptly stop.

“What did I tell you about running away from me, birthday girl? Don't do it again.” He told you before once again slamming back into you and you did your hardest not to make one sound.

With the increase of his pace, Joe had now leaned forward and placed his hand around your neck and lightly squeezed.

Not too much pressure, but just enough for your eyes to roll back.

Then he did one of the last things that you ever expected.

“Open your mouth, princess.”

As soon as you moved your hands to the side and did as you were told, Joe promptly spit in your mouth as his hands were still around your neck.

“Swallow it.”

As soon as you did, Joe tightened his grip around you while placing one of your legs on his shoulder.

“You're being such a good girl for me. So I guess I can let you cum.” He said as his hand now moved from your neck to massage your clit. You couldn't help but to let a whimper escape as you held tightly onto Joe's bicep as your orgasm hit you like a ton of bricks.

He wasted no time before flipping you over and entering you from behind.

“Face down, ass up, come on princess. Hurry up and get there.”

“Babeee.”

“I'm going to act like I didn't hear that. Next time I won't be so nice.”

You were hanging on by a literal thread when you heard Joe's voice from behind you again.

“Shit, you feel so good, baby. Keep that arch in your back for me.” Joe told you as you rested your head on your hands and tried to even your breathing.

He wasn't lying when he told you that it was going to look like he didn't respect you for a few minutes.

Joe's movements were starting to get sloppier and that let you know he was literally seconds away from cumming and it worked out perfectly because you were too.

“Fuck!” Was all you heard as he quickly pulled out of you and flipped you back over.

He crawled up your body and was hovering over your mouth as he was finishing by jacking himself off.

You leaned forward with your mouth open ready to catch his load when the first drop hit your tongue.

The moans that Joe was letting out was music to your ears as his cum continued to slide down your throat. When he was finally finished, he leaned down to kiss you before pinching your cheek.

“Spread your legs for me. I need to eat you out.”

Nodding your head, you moved to the top of the bed and spread your legs wide before Joe got himself settled in between them.

He kissed along your thighs just like he had done earlier but before he dove in, he peeked up to look at you.

“You doing okay up there, baby doll?” He asked as he inserted one of his fingers at the same time making you gasp.

“Yes.”

“Good, I like that answer. Want me to keep going?”

“Mm hmm.”

“I like that answer too and besides we have to put your new toy to good use. Isn't that right?”

Two fingers.

“Answer me, baby.” Joe told you as soon as his tongue ran along the length of you.

“Yes!”

“How many times do you think I can get you to cum on your birthday? We're already up to three and this is about to be four.”

“Five.”

“No, I think you can do better than that. I think because my jersey number is nine, that I should make you cum at least nine times before you go to sleep. You up for that? We’re almost halfway there.”

“Joey!?!? NINE?!” You squeaked out in disbelief as his fingers were still working down below.

“Don’t act like I haven't gotten you close before. Let's set a new record.”

“I'm not going to be able to walk…”

“Baby, you aren't leaving this bed until three days from now, what do you need to walk for? Keep in mind you begged me for this. I want to keep making you feel good. You ready? You had a long enough breather.”

“I'm surprised you're not making it 19.” You mumbled, but Joe heard you and raised his eyebrows.

“Good idea, sweet girl. By Monday it'll be 19.”

“I didn't mean…”

“Too late. Look at how wet you are, and all this is for me?” He asked you before reaching over and grabbing the rose from the nightstand to finally use on you. Luckily, you didn't see him and he would probably use it when you least expected it.

“For you and no one else.”

“If it's for me and no one else, I'm going to need for you to spread your legs wider, princess. I know you can.”

Your legs slowly moved away from each other and when Joe was finally satisfied about the distance between them, he dove right in.

Unlike earlier when he woke you up, he was taking his slow sweet time all while listening to the moans and whimpers that were escaping letting him know how good he was making you feel.

Your eyes were closed, but suddenly shot open when you felt a vibrating sensation on your clit that made you jump.

That must be the rose toy.

“Stay still and you better not cum until I tell you to.”

“But…”

“Good girls follow directions and don't disobey their boyfriends, right?”

All you gave Joe in return was you letting out a sigh as you felt the rose increase in speed and he went back to eating you out.

You knew for a fact between the both of them that you weren't going to last as long as he wanted you to and you almost felt as if you were about to cum in less than thirty seconds.

Now you saw what everyone was talking about.

It was taking literally all your strength in order for you to hold it.

Another minute or so passed and there was absolutely no way you could take it anymore.

“Let me cum. Baby, please let me cum.” You desperately pleaded while he gave you a small smirk.

“I don't know if I should let you, seeing as you ran away from me earlier. Remember that? And remember that little picture you sent me and I told you would be punished for doing that too?”

“JOSEPH!!!”

“Damn, full first name basis?” He asked as he turned it onto the fastest speed at which it could go.

It was inevitable at that point, there was no more holding back as you promptly squirted on Joe's face, but he kept the rose on you while continuing to eat you out.

“Fuckkk! Babe!!!”

“That was number four, give me another one because I am not moving until you do.”

As soon as he finished his sentence, he got drenched for a second time and thinking that he was going to move away to give you another break, he stayed put and quickly heard your protests.

“I swear I can't….”

“You can, one more and I promise to move.”

“Bullshit. I'll believe it when I see it.” You barely managed to get out before it almost looked like you started convulsing with how hard the orgasm had hit you.

At that point, no words even came out as Joe moved his fingers, but held the rose steady so that you could ride out your high.

All he did was hover above you as he took one nipple in his mouth and twirled his tongue around your piercing.

He let you lay there for a few minutes as you tried to catch your breath and planted kisses all along your face and chest.

“Like I said earlier, you're so beautiful when you cum, baby. I love watching you every time.”

“You get on my fucking nerves, Burrow.” You managed to say in response, but all he did was laugh.

“Now, now. Is that any way to talk to me after I made you cum six times? Keep in mind we have three more to go.”

“You're feeding me and giving me the rest of my gifts first.”

“Not a problem, princess. That can be arranged. I'll order our food so you can get your life together.” Joe replied as he leaned down to kiss you.

It was now Monday morning when your phone repeatedly kept going off in Joe's ear eventually waking him up.

You were knocked out cold on his chest and he quickly grabbed it to make sure that it wasn’t important.

The notifications that popped up were from Erin and Alisha asking if you were okay and if you had survived the weekend in order to be able to tell the tale.

Erin- Bitch, is you alive? 👀

Alisha- We haven't heard from you since Friday and now we are lowkey starting to panic

“Baby…” Joe called out to you and all you did was give him a groan in response.

“Erin and Alisha have been texting you and asking if you're okay.”

“You made me cum 21 fucking times in 3 days. No, I am not okay. You can text them and tell them that while I sleep. Now shut up, Joey.”

Joe let out a small laugh before grabbing your phone again and texting them back.

You- She’s still sleeping. That's what happens when I make her cum 21 times in three days. She should be okay by Wednesday and fully recovered.

Erin- Oh, Joseph YOU ARE VILE FOR THAT (if you have any friends that will do that to me send them my way)

Alisha- Uhh, I guess we'll check in on Wednesday

[schluttforschlatt]

Plush obsessive gf x Schlatt who punches them when she’s not around

nonnie nonnie nonnie why of course :3 my ex used to do that to my build a bears bc he thought it wasn’t fair they got to see my tits everyday lmaoooo

wc: 1.1k

warnings: slightly gendered pet names, brief mention of sex (literally one sentence)

You knew it was “childish” and seen as “immature for your age”, but stuffed animals had become a big part of your adult life. Visit an amusement park? You pick out the cutest mascot plush available. Waiting an unusually long time for a prescription refill at the pharmacy? You spin the metal rack in the corner until your name is called, leaving with your meds and a new stuffed friend. Oh, and you can’t forget all the plushies won via claw machines, too. They made you feel safe and comfortable, but most of all, they made you happy.

Your boyfriend, Schlatt, on the other hand, wasn’t as fond of them as you were. Sure, he had a few of his own around, but it was very clear that your collection was substantially larger than a spoiled child. Schlatt would gently tease you over the fact that your bed wasn’t even a bed at this point and was more so a giant shelf of toys.

However, as much as he liked to pick on you for it, he was equally as guilty for the growth of the collection. In fact, you were almost certain that it wouldn’t have gotten to this point if not for him. Every special occasion, celebration, or holiday he’d gift you another. Hell, maybe even two.

Despite his compliance and enabling, he would find it creepy or off putting to have hundreds of little beady eyes stare at him for hours on end. Truth be told, he hated spending more than ten minutes in your room because of it.

He had taken up the hobby of punching your plushies whenever you were out of the room, careful to put them back in their original place before you could notice any disturbance. He would even fluff them up afterwards if he delivered a particularly hard blow. And for the past few years, you had been none the wiser. It was all peaches and cream.

Until last week.

It’d been busy for the both of you, Schlatt having a few in person meetings in the city and you with midterms. There were never any hard feelings towards each other about times like this, instead when you finally got to spend time with each other in person, it was just extra special. Typically, he’d take you out to a nice dinner, have a couple drinks, then Uber back to whomever’s place was closest and stay the night. Most of the time it would be Schlatt’s, but this rare occasion was yours.

Dinner was phenomenal, a chic new rooftop place you mentioned wanting to try. The food was delicious and the drinks were strong. The two of you were a giggling mess on the ride back to your apartment, and barely made it through the door before tomfoolery was at play. The mess of shoes and clothes would be cleaned up in the morning, you noted mentally, finally falling asleep in each other's arms as the night grew long.

You awake the following morning with large arms wrapped around your middle and a heavy, drooling head resting above yours. You smiled, reveling in the peace moments like this brought you. You could stay like this for hours, if it hadn’t been for your bladder screaming at you. Sighing, you untangle yourself from Schlatt and make your way into the bathroom just down the hall. You use the time to brush your hair and teeth, not wanting to torture the poor man with your morning breath, before stopping in the kitchen to get water boiling for some morning tea.

You’re happy to see that Schlatt had (presumably) gotten up, as the trail of clothes from the night before had been cleaned up and shoes lined up together by the front door. After setting the kettle to boil, you tiptoe back towards your room, an attempt at trying to startle him.

However, instead of leaping onto him like you had planned, you let out a loud gasp watching the scene unfolding in front of you.

“What are you doing to Mr. Bear?!?” You yell, having caught your boyfriend using one of your beloved stuffies as a makeshift punching bag. As soon as he hears your voice, he goes stiff, arm raised ready to strike again. You run over and yank Mr. Bear away from him, cradling the teddy in your arms like a baby. “Why were you hurting him?” You pout, now facing Schlatt. His shoulders drop and his cheeks grow red, clearly embarrassed that he had been caught. He raises an arm to scratch the back of his neck.

“I- I was- I just- Toots…” he stutters, shifting his guilty eyes to the floor. “I don’t like his eyes, they’re scary.” The confession comes out meek, reflecting his now sheepish demeanor. You stare him down, crossing your arms the best you can with Mr. Bear still being held to your chest.

“You don’t have to be mean to him! He doesn’t get to pick his eyes!” Your statement earns a small laugh from Schlatt, knowing he was still in the doghouse regardless if he found this situation funny or not.

“I’m sorry, doll. You’re right, I shouldn’t have been mean to Mr. Bear.” Skeptical of his apology, you stand your ground, not moving until you got a more genuine response. He looked you up and down, then at Mr. Bear, then you up and down again before he spoke once more, reaching out and placing a hand on your wrist. “I know that this is just a silly little stuffed animal, but I am genuinely sorry for hurting him and your feelings. You mean the world to me, princess.” You relax a bit under his touch, willing to be forgiving this once. You knew Mr. Bear was just a stuffie, and although it made you upset to see him being bludgeoned, it ultimately wasn’t that big of a deal. However, if you could…

“If you’re really sorry then you’ll take me to Build-a-Bear to make it up to me.” You cracked a smile up at your lover, seeing the adoration he had for you present o behind his eyes. He let out a chuckle before moving his hand to caress your cheek, taking a step closer to you.

“Anything you want, doll,” he speaks softly, now pinching your cheek. “How could I say no when you’ve got a face like that?”

True to his word, he took you to the mall and spent a painfully long time (and amount of money) in Build-a-Bear with you, even building his own bear and dressing it like himself. He was a good sport through the whole process, even making an authentic wish when it got to the heart ceremony. And although he would never voice it out loud, at least not loud enough for outside ears to hear, his wish was to have you by his side, for better or for worse, for as long as you’ll have him.

[wndaswife]

Hi!!! So glad your request are open. I was wondering if you could do something with Wanda coming over to readers house. Reader and Wanda watching a movie and Wanda starts being touchy. They try being secretive.

showing off | wanda maximoff & gn!reader

Wanda has a difficult time keeping her hands to herself during a movie night with you and your friends.

Word count: 2485

Tags: smut, fluff, possessiveness a little, mentions of voyeurism, cunnilingus, fingering, overstimulation, aftercare, dom!wanda maximoff, sub!afab!reader | MINORS DNI

gif credit to bill-weasley

To celebrate the long-awaited Spring Break, your friends from your gender theory class decided to come together for drinks after your class’ midterm.

Though the exam was a struggle altogether and you all knew that a few of you would come back to campus after the break with some failed exam marks, it was still worth celebrating finally getting to the midpoint of the semester during which you could all finally have a bit of a breather — and getting drinks together was something you’d all been planning out for a while.

The evening out was pleasant and enjoyable enough, but you were truly enthralled when Wanda whispered over to you while everyone was packing up, asking you if she could come over to watch a movie at your place.

You liked all your friends from class — really, you did — but Wanda was a special friend. She was the prettiest with the softest hair and the nicest green eyes, whose hands were always so warm and her fingers so soft when she touched you. She shared the most about herself with you rather than with any of your other mutual friends — or her own, for that matter. 

You were Wanda’s most special friend too.

So you were more than happy to accept her offer, quickly wrapping your arms around one of hers and beaming over at her.

Her typically docile and still expression formed into a gentle smile and you flushed at the sight of making her all soft, knowing it could only ever be you who could make her smile like that.

Wanda wasn’t necessarily antisocial or anything like it, but she was rather withdrawn and emanated a feeling of stillness around others. But with you, she was so warm and generous and considerate, so touchy and flattering.

Truth be told, you’d been trying to find a way to spend more time with Wanda alone. The way she’d been treating you over the last few months of knowing each other made it impossible for you to avoid beginning to see her in a way that pointed to more than platonic fondness.

For weeks, you hadn’t been able to stop thinking of Wanda’s roaming hands and her soft-looking lips and her cute laugh and long brown hair, and being without her for all of Spring Break felt like nothing less than absolute torture.

You weren’t sure what your plan was going to be once you finally got the chance to spend more time alone with her, but you did know that you most certainly did want to spend the rest of the night alone with Wanda after drinks with your mutual friends.

Unfortunately, some of them ended up overhearing the two of you talk a bit about what movie you wanted to watch while you were all walking to the nearest streetcar stop so all of you could eventually part for the night along your way home together.

Initially, it was Carol asking if she’d forgotten about any plans to watch a movie together after being out, and then it was Yelena asking who it was that mentioned seeing a movie together, and lastly it was everyone planning to come over to your place together.

A few of them still ended up not being able to go, but a handful of them still could, and that was an entire handful worth of people you didn’t anticipate seeing along with Wanda after you went home with her.

The entirety of the plan-making went by so quickly and decisively that neither you nor Wanda could really process what was happening fast enough to be openly adamant about wanting to spend the night together alone.

So both of you and a few friends ended up heading to your apartment together.

Wanda squeezed your hand softly in hers as your arms tightened around her upper arm, keeping her close as you followed behind your friends going up the building’s staircase.

Trying to hide your dismay, you sat cuddled at the corner of the couch snuggling alone with a blanket and a pillow after putting together some snacks and a few drinks like coffee and hot chocolate for everyone.

Wanda joined beside you immediately after taking her hot chocolate over to the table beside you from the centre of the living room.

“How are you?” Wanda whispered and pressed a kiss against your shoulder as she buried herself under the blankets with you.

The gesture made you blush alongside with the feeling of her legs laying on yours under the warmth of the fleece blanket covering your bodies, and you cuddled up closer to her.

“Feeling okay,” you replied and looked up at her, seeing the gentle flickering from the television casting pale colours onto her face.

The dark of the living room allowed the two of you to do all but sit on each other’s laps without the acknowledgement from your surrounding friends, some sitting on the floor and some sitting on the adjacent sofas.

Wanda looked up at the movie for a moment or two and then at your surrounding friends before looking back at you laying your head on her shoulder. She said quietly, “I’m sorry that they all invited themselves over. I didn’t expect it.”

“It’s okay. Let’s just hope they go home early,” you whispered back. “I wish it was just us, though.”

Her arms tightened around your body and you stifled a little giggle as she pulled you close.

“Me too,” she answered.

Because of how reserved Wanda was around the rest of your friends, it was a bit hard to tell how tipsy she’d gotten through the night. But you could see it now in her flushed cheeks and slightly hooded eyes, and eventually the harshness of her fingers and calculated motions of her wandering hands under the blankets.

“Feels good?” Wanda asked quietly, her nose brushing against your temple as she spoke to you in a hushed teasing tone. 

The sound of the voice you’d always known as so gentle and kind, the twinge of her Slavic accent, the hands you’d always known as careful and soft; it all filled you up to the brim with warmth and made you almost overwhelmed. 

Your heart beat a bit faster in your chest and your body was overtaken by heat — a gently thrumming pleasure. 

Instead of protesting, you stuttered, “W… Wanda, they’re gonna notice.”

Your eyes darted rapidly around the room to make sure your half-asleep friends didn’t take notice of how Wanda’s hands began travelling up your shirt to tug your bra down a bit. 

Your response made Wanda smile and you could feel her grin against your cheek. “Let them watch, baby,” she said. 

Her response made your cheeks sting with how warm your face became, and you found it hard to restrain your giggles.

“What are you so afraid of, hm?” Wanda continued to tease when she caught onto how giggly and squirmy you were trying to hide yourself further under the blankets. She spoke into the crook of your neck, her words reaching only your ears as she nipped at your skin and breathed in the scent of your hair. 

She asked, “Worried they’ll be jealous because they can’t touch you like I can?”

Your friends were beginning to doze off in their respective spots around the living room with the movie forgotten by everyone, but especially by you and Wanda who were much more preoccupied with other things. 

Her hand that’d been kneading your breast let go suddenly and your erect nipple was squeezed between her thumb and forefinger while her other hand swiftly slid between your thighs and met with your panties soaked panties beyond the waistband of your pants. 

Wanda rubbed her fingers against your pussy and you felt your sticky panties slide against your folds uncomfortably, making you whine with growing need for the brunette’s fingers.

“Feel how wet I make this dirty little cunt, moya zvezdochka?” she whispered against your ear. “Your panties are sticking to this pretty pussy… You’re such a fucking slut.”

She suddenly pinched your swollen cuntlips between her thumb and forefinger and you bit down on your lip to stifle a yelp, but your body jerked at the sudden feeling nevertheless, making the television remote drop from the armrest. 

One of your friends jolted awake on the couch and Wanda quickly retracted her hands from you, finally allowing you to catch your breath though it took all of four seconds to miss her contact. 

“What time is it?” Yelena asked groggily, looking around for her phone. 

You coughed then choked out, “Almost one.”

She groaned and reached over to shake Kate awake, who previously wanted to go home after the movie but was now dozing off on her makeshift bed of blankets and pillows you gave her by Yelena’s spot on the couch.

Carol and Monica also woke up and Carol took no time in asking you if she could just crash at your place. Monica apologised for her crassness and told you it was totally alright if you wanted them to leave. 

But you told them all it was alright if they slept over because you really didn’t want to send them home at this time while they were all sleepy and still a bit drunk. 

Both you and Wanda helped them set up in the living room and their collective grogginess didn’t let them wonder even once why Wanda wasn’t leaving nor was she planning on sleeping in the living room. 

If Wanda wasn’t at the time completely overtaken by her desire for you to the point where her fingertips were practically buzzing with the urge to touch you, she would’ve complained at least just a little about not being alone with you for the night. 

But she wanted you now, and she was going to take you with or without company staying over. 

They all passed out within a minute once both the television and living room lights were turned off, and Wanda quickly had her hands on you again, leading you backwards down the hallway with her hands on your hips and her lips on your neck. 

Between ragged sighs and stumbling steps, you led the way backwards to your bedroom where Wanda forced you in and shut the door. 

The speed at which she began devouring you entirely nearly frightened you in a way for you hadn’t ever known Wanda as someone other than a docile, friendly face. But you were thrilled to now be acquainted with her groping hands and her nipping teeth, her deep groans and her dirty whispers. 

She undressed you in a way that made you feel that she’d previously fantasised countless times before about every path her hands would take along your body and she nearly forgot to strip herself down if it were not for the way your needy hands grasped at her clothes with a desperation to see her underneath dark clothing that smelled like her, to bury your nose in the uncovered pulse points against which she sprayed her perfume earlier that night.

With your thighs on her shoulders and her on her knees, Wanda ate you out with an alarming hunger as predator would its prey. She made you come in her mouth though she didn’t stop the way her tongue was fucking in and out of your hole while her lips wrapped securely around your cunt, delivering overwhelming pressure to your throbbing clit.

When she arose from between your thighs, she did so only because she wanted to feel your body against hers and to hear you whimper just below her instead of above, to see the way your face screwed shut as your mouth fell open singing out her name in melodies.

She placed her rings on the nightstand and she crawled on top of your weakened body, carrying you up the bed with her arm wrapped around your hips. 

“Tell me how much you love when I play with your pussy, angel,” she whispered in your ear before running her tongue up from your earlobe to your temple to press a kiss there.

You answered obediently, “You make my p-pussy feel so good.”

“Konechno, lyubov,” she said and took your bottom lip between her teeth as her fingers crept back down between your thighs and entered your slick hole. 

Instinctively, your back arched and you tugged your lip away from Wanda’s teeth, making her grab at the lower half of your face with her hand possessively so she could kiss you with bruising passion. She swallowed your whimpers and moans with her messy wet kisses. 

Your bedroom felt so warm and your legs felt so smooth against your blankets.

Wanda’s naked body was so hot against your own and the dim light from your nightstand began to blur as hot tears formed in your eyes at how filled to the brim you were with pleasure albeit overwhelming for your still-sensitive body.

Your entire body pulsed with need and Wanda was more than in-tune with your every signal, knowing exactly how roughly to grope your breasts and just how to bite down on your nipples.

She moaned at the feeling of your cunt around her fingers to show you just how much she loved fucking you, and you loved that an awful lot.

And Wanda knew it.

She knew exactly what you loved.

Your body’s pulsing exploded into another orgasm and though it was Wanda who pushed you into overstimulation and through to another climax in spite of how sensitive you still were, she slipped down beside you and pulled you against her body as you cried out into her shoulder.

She eased your trembling body down with gentle hands and quiet coos of how well you did while telling you it was okay to relax, that she wouldn’t push you any further and that you could breathe now.

You whimpered out her name and grasped weakly at her upper arm to keep her close, feeling suddenly that the thought of being without her arms wrapped around your shoulders for even a moment would be the worst possible thing.

But she let you know she was there, knowing just how overwhelmed you were with your rapidly beating heart and your steadily-declining adrenaline pumping through your body, desperate to feel her close.

“You did very well — took it all like the good baby you are,” Wanda praised and kissed your forehead. “It’s okay now. Just breathe. I’m here.”

She kissed your naked body when your breathing steadied, chastely and with nothing but admiration for you behind her warm pecks. She wrapped the both of you in blankets to keep you warm when your skin was no longer damp with the impassioned labour of sex.

“You’re always safe with me, Y/N,” she said, stroking your hair as you settled happily with your head resting on her breasts.

[atinystraynstay]

Guardian Angel - Jeon Wonwoo

Synopsis: Wonwoo is a mysterious individual. Not that he tried to be, but he always had his guard up. He didn't want to fall casualty to a world that could turn so cold. Can you be the one person that finds the secret passage into his world?

Pairing: College Student!Jeon Wonwoo x fem. reader

Genre: "I'm here for you" girl meets "I'm not good at opening up" boy

Inspired by @aaniag - thanks for tagging me in this post ♡ cannot wait to bring all of these into reality First Encounters Mini Series: #1: #2: #3: #4: Wonwoo #5: Jeonghan #6: #7: #8: Dino

Warnings: mentions alcohol consumption

Word Count: 3.7k

Being friends with Kim Mingyu came with a lot of perks. You always had an invite to the biggest parties on campus, knew someone who could walk you home when you had a bit too much to drink, and a constant study partner who would bring coffee to the study sessions.

On the outside, it is easy to assume you and Mingyu were a couple. And you knew one day, Mingyu would make a woman very happy. I mean, he was the poster child of what it means to be a Golden Retriever Boyfriend.

Yet, you have never been attracted to Mingyu like that. Of course, he treated you like royalty, but in some ways, he was showing you the way you deserved to be treated. Mingyu was always the one to give you dating and relationship advice, which was extremely helpful given he was able to give the male perspective. And vice versa, you were always there to hype up and encourage Mingyu to go after women he found attractive. Despite the confidence he exudes, he was a rather shy individual.

Your friendship with Mingyu was a prized possession in your life, and you never wanted to do something to risk. Even though you had a crush on his best friend, Jeon Wonwoo.

Unlike Mingyu, you knew next to nothing about Wonwoo. You often saw him every now and then when he was out with Mingyu, but the two of you never seemed to exchange words. There was just something about him that lured you in.

And you were hoping tonight would be the opportunity to change that.

For the past few weeks, you have been trying to gather intel on Wonwoo. Most of the time when you hung out with Mingyu, you asked about his best friend. It didn't take long for the giant man to put the puzzle pieces together. Instantly, Mingyu devised a plan to try to get his two favorite people together.

Midterms would be coming to an end on Friday, and he knew everyone would want to come out and celebrate. Rather than going to the bars, Mingyu suggested he hosted a house party filled with his closest friends. Both so everyone could be comfortable and enjoy themselves, but also so Wonwoo might open up more during the party. He wasn't the type of guy who preferred going out on the weekends. Often, his weekends were filled with either studying or playing video games. Mingyu was almost certain that a house party could get his introverted best friend to come out of his room.

After sending different outfit options to Mingyu, and each text was responded with "looks good," you decided on a black jeans and a black, long-sleeved crop top. You wore gold jewelry for the comparison, but also decided to wear your hair down for now. You did keep a white scrunchie around your wrist, in case you or someone else might need it throughout the night.

Your goal was to look presentable, but not too over the top. It was a house party, after all. Tonight would be a great opportuntiy not just to hang out with friends you haven't seen in a while, but also maybe know Wonwoo on a deeper level. While yes, you did like him, you were unsure of where his mind was at. Even Mingyu was clueless on Wonwoo's love life as it was a topic rarely they engaged in. Being friends with Wonwoo could always be the start.

With a bottle of vodka and a bottle of Berry Lemonade held by your hip, your free hand knocked on the door. You could already hear music and chatter coming from inside. Growing out of hopping from frat house to frat house, house parties were becoming more of your comfort zone. Maybe that's what it meant to be an upperclassman?

"Hi Barbie!" "Hi Ken!"

Mingyu quickly retrieved one of the bottles from you, making your load lighter. You could have managed carrying both, but that was Mingyu just being himself. He wrapped his free arm around you to pull you into a hug. "Woah, you're wearing perfume tonight? Must really want to impress someone."

Quickly, you pulled back from the embrace and slapped his chest. Your eyes narrowed on him before he broke out into a fit of laughter. Yeah, Mingyu definitely was not your boyfriend.

"You do look great though, y/n!" "Not half bad yourself, Gyu," you laughed.

The two of you ventured into the kitchen after closing the door. Mingyu's parties never got too crazy. He always knew who was invited, and it was always known nobody else unless an invite was extended by Mingyu himself or you asked if you could bring someone along with you. He just never liked the unpredictability of strangers entering his home. Wonwoo and him also despised the clean-up afterwards too when people didn't respect their home. That was one way to never get invited again.

Upon entering the kitchen, you were greeted with cheers. Both from the guys invested in the game of Flip Cup but also by the ones that noticed you. Seungkwan, Dino, and Hoshi were all grinning at you. Currently, it seemed like Seungcheol and Joshua were going head-to-head in a match with Dokyeom and Jeonghan waiting there turn. Vernon, Minghao, Jun, and Woozi were all spectating. All that was missing was Wonwoo.

Noticing you take a headcount, Mingyu grinned. He's gotten to know you all too well over the course of your friendship. "He's out back on the patio," he whispered into his ear.

He must have been able to escape with the guys distracted, and the bodies that filled the first floor of their college townhouse apartment.

"Y/n! Wanna take a shot?" Hoshi shouted to you. "Hell yeah."

A little liquid courage never hurt. Mingyu chuckled as he got to work preparing your mixed drinks for the two of you. Hoshi was eagerly pouring out shots for the 14 people. He must still think Wonwoo is in the room.

"Hey, where's Wonwoo?" DK finally asked once he finished his turn with flip cup. "Oh, I think he must have slipped outside," Mingyu quickly responded. "I can go check on him after," you offered.

It was not unusual for you to take on almost a 'mother' role. Like Mingyu, you liked being there for people. You liked when people felt uncomfortable around you or that you could help someone out, no matter how big the task might be.

"That's our eomma," Dino shouted.

You rolled your eyes playfully but couldn't wipe the smile off your face. It did really feel good to be seen in positive light.

Mingyu placed your red solo cups in front of you. You smiled at the sight of your mixed drink, knowing that it would help the liquor slid down your throat. You weren't the biggest fan of vodka, but if you had something to chase? You were golden. Plus, you were now able to take your drink and able to slip away to find Wonwoo.

"Alright fuckers, some of us are seniors. Top dogs, but we always have our pack to support us. " Hoshi began. Oh boy.

Promptly, DK started barking which encouraged the rest of the boys to join in. Sometimes you question why you are friends with them, but you knew they were all irreplaceable.

"I just love you guys so much." Uh oh. Looks like Hoshi has already had a bit more to drink than the rest of the group. "Here's the last few months before we become boring."

The shot glasses dropped down to the table before meeting all of your lips. You cringed a bit at the feeling of straight vodka hitting your mouth but quickly swallowed. With your free hand, you were able to rid of the taste with the mixed drink which made you immediately relax. You sighed as you could already feel how warm your stomach felt from the liquor entering your system.

"Go get your boy," Mingyu teased you in a hushed tone. "HEY! Secrets makes frenemies and I want us all to be besties," Hoshi shouted as he caught you and Mingyu talking. "Relax, tiger. I'm just telling her where I think Wonwoo ran off to."

Hoshi seemed to relax before instantly distracted by the next game Jun proposed. Mingyu sighed, knowing he was going to be on Hoshi duty tonight. Again. You patted his shoulder comfortingly before slipping away to the porch.

Keeping your drink above your head, so you wouldn't accidentally spill or drop it on anyone or anything, you navigated through the crowd of people. For someone who liked to keep parties small, there was always a large turn out for Mr. Popular. You offered friendly smiles at familiar faces, as you kept your eyes locked on the back patio.

As the people around you began to dissipate, you saw a figure sitting on the steps of the back porch. It wasn't much of a porch really. Just a set of wooden steps with a deck, but it was like luxury to any college student. It also is why people favorited Mingyu's spot for partying on the weekends.

You were able to easily identify the person outside just based off the broad shoulders. It has been quite a few weeks since you last saw Mingyu, but you liked seeing how long his hair has gotten since then. You always thought he looked better with a bit of length to his haircut.

Gently, you slid the back patio door hoping not to startle him. He did, however, whip his head around to see who was responsible but then immediately relaxed when he saw it was you. While you two were not close yet, he recognized you. Wonwoo also knew just how important you were to Mingyu, so you were never seen as a threat. Quite frankly, he just didn't know how to approach you since the two of you had not had a proper conversation one-on-one.

"Oh hi, y/n," he called out gently. His voice was always calm in his deep tone. It was oe of the things you adored about Wonwoo. His voice was calm to you like the ocean, and you always seemed to cling onto every word he spoke.

"Hey Wonwoo," you said in your usual tone, not wanting to be perceived as a threat. "Mind if I join you?"

His eyes slightly widened as he heard you. Only the guys ever really approached Wonwoo, so it was a bit surprising that someone would want to accompany him.

"Oh um sure."

Wonwoo scooted over from where he was sitting, offering his spot for you. You smiled appreciatively before fully stepping into the patio. You closed the door behind you, both to respect Wonwoo's privacy and to keep the house warm. It was apparent that Wonwoo had wondered out here for a reason, so you wanted to respectful and show through your actions you were someone he could trust. You also were not wanting to hear Mingyu nagging at you for causing the electricity bill to rise in the month of March.

Slowly, you made your way over until you sat down next to him. You set your drink but the edge, so if you accidentally spilled, it could go into the grass rather than the cute boy beside you.

"Enjoying the party?" Wonwoo asked in a soft tone.

It wasn't monotone. It was his usual deep tone. But as he spoke, you noticed that his gaze was seemed to be locked on the moon above the two of you. It was still a bit chilly when the sun was hidden, but you were comfortable. The alcohol definitely aiding.

"Yeah, actually. Much better than being coped up studying," you joked.

"Yeah, I feel you," he sighed. You watched the way he pushed his glasses up on the bridge of his nose. It was such a little thing, something he probably doesn't even think about it. Yet, you found it to be the most adorable thing. "You're in the political science program, right?"

Your heart undeniably did a little flip knowing that he remembered that detail to you. Maybe Mingyu has held up his promise and talked to Wonwoo about you, not just saying he had to make you feel more at ease. You nodded your head as you looked over at hi. It was just a habit of yours. You didn't expect him to look over at you, but you wanted to show him that you were present in the moment and ready to listen to whatever he wanted to say. Or even if you two just sat here in silence for a little. There was just something screaming within you that you he needed you tonight.

You just had no idea that he knew anything about you given that you only were on first name basis.

"Yeah," you spoke softly, unable to wipe the gentle smile on your face. "And you're in the computer science program?"

Wonwoo nodded, smiling a bit as well. Wonwoo never was the guy he thought people took interest in. Honestly, every day, he feels just blessed to say he has some of the best friends who want to drag him out of his bedroom. Most people might not even notice his absence. And Wonwoo did that subconsciously, just as a defense mechanism. He has been on the receiving end of bullying and life's unfortunate events. He just found himself isolating more as a way to cope.

"If you don't mind me asking," you began, biting your lip. "Why are you out here by yourself? Is everything ok?" "I think?"

You couldn't help but frown at Wonwoo's response. You were too familiar with the uncertain feeling and knew how troubling it can be. While everyone faces their own difficulties in life, you never liked hearing that other people are struggling.

"I just," he began to open it up.

Now you were the surprised on. Never before would you expect to be Wonwoo's confidant, but you knew it was a job title of upmost importance. You just hoped your surprised expression was not portrayed on your face. If Wonwoo needed someone to vent to, you'd gladly step up.

He glanced at you to see if you were listening. Satisfied to see your eyes on him with a soft gaze, he let out a shaky breath. For the first time in a while, he felt like he was able to confide in someone. He knew the guys were always in his corner, but he ever wished to worry them too much. To some extent, Wonwoo prided himself in his own ability to take care of himself.

It was just that he's been struggling for some time.

"Everything is changing," he chuckled almost out of self-pity. "It's just been hitting me that all of this," he motioned to the party behind him. "Will not be here in a few months. Hell, not even in a few weeks since we all graduate soon. I know I should be in there partying it up, living in the present but I cannot help but think of how we all won't be together like this and it makes me sad."

It was almost like looking into the future as Wonwoo described his inner turmoil. You and Mingyu, and a few of the other guys, were still had another year or two left in college. However, Wonwoo and the other guys would be graduating this upcoming May.

"Do you know where the other guys have decided to go?" You asked in a quite tone. You hope you weren't upsetting him by your questions.

Wonwoo slowly nodded. "Yeah, I think Seungcheol and Jeonghan are moving to the city. Seungkwan has talked about moving in with them once he graduates next year. Joshua and Jun have jobs lined up in their hometowns, so they'll be moving out probably at the end of May. Hoshi? I have no clue. He hasn't even applied to any jobs yet. And Woozi and I have been applying to graduate schools. He's leaning towards business and I think I want to go in a more software engineering route."

"Have you heard back from any schools yet?"

Wonwoo couldn't fight the smile creeping on his face. He knew you cared deeply about Mingyu's friends, but he never thought he would be looped into that circle. He always kept his distance just because it was just convenient, it's what he knew. It also kept him safe in a world filled with chaos and unpredictability.

"Yeah, I actually heard from two schools, so I'm trying to decide. One of the schools is here."

He whispered the last part. It spoke volumes to you. The thought of Wonwoo staying here meant that you might be able to make things work with Wonwoo. That is, if he was opened to the idea of you dating.

"Like part of me wants to run away from here," he explained.

While you weren't quite at the same stage as life, you understood the need. It was part of the reason why you chose to go away for university whereas all your high school classmates chose more local programs. You wanted a change of scenery, a new beginning.

"So much has changed since freshman year. I'm definitely not the same person I was. I've had my challenges like losing my mom a year and a half ago," he explained. "And all those hard times happened while I was here, so I almost have a need to move and leave the pain behind.

His casual mentioning of his mother's passing brought back memories. You remember how all the guys rallied behind Wonwoo. Some of them even skipped final presentations and exams in order to be there for Wonwoo at the funeral. You knew it wasn't in your place to attend the funeral, but you cooked a warm cooked meal for all of them. It was Wonwoo's favorite dish. It at least wanted to do a nice gesture, so Wonwoo knew he wasn't alone. You still remember dropping the dish off with Mingyu with re-heating instructions.

To this day, he has no idea how that dish arrived. He just figured one of the guys ordered DoorDash.

While Mingyu begged you to stay, so you could give it to Wonwoo himself, you didn't want to overstep. You knew grief takes all shapes and forms, os you thought the best thing you could do was give the space for Wonwoo to feel his emotions.

Little did you know he's been harboring those emotions this whole time, almost two years later.

'But then part of me worries about the younger guys. I don't want them to feel abandoned. I don't want the group to fall apart once we all move, and it feels like if I stay here then I can keep us together even while the other guys go off."

"Almost like you are the glue that keeps them all together?" "Yeah, I guess that's the best way to explain it." "But Wonwoo, what keeps you together?"

He furrowed his eyebrows as he fully looked at you. What an odd question. And based on his reaction, you felt the need to elaborate.

"I mean, it's great that you always look out for everyone. You're a real nurturer," you explained.

Wonwoo has never been described in such light before. He bit the inside of his cheek to keep the blush from overtaking his cheeks. He shrugged though as if it was no big deal.

"But what are you doing to take care of yourself? I'm not asking you to make a decision now to either stay or go because going to grad school is a big decision. Congratulations, by the way. That's incredible!"

How could you always see the positive side of things? How hasn't life damaged your spirit like it has for him? How could you see good in him when he often failed to see it in himself?

"I know it's easy to feel like you need to harbor your own emotions because it's easy. But Wonwoo, that shit can break you."

Woah. Who would have thought y/n could swear.

"I'm always going to be here if you need me, you know. I'm not just Mingyu's friend, but I could like to consider us friends too, if that is something you'd like. I'm always here if you need a place to vent, especially if it's away from the guys. I know they can be…" you trailed off.

You didn't want to offend Wonwoo as that was his core group of friends. You were just a side character brought in every now and then.

"A lot," Wonwoo finished for you.

You both shared a laugh as you nodded, confirming to Wonwoo that was the word you were looking for. Silence fell over the two of you for a moment. All that could be heard was the sound of people laughing from within the house and the crickets chirping in the backyard. It was peaceful.

"You know, I've always wanted to say more than hello to you, y/n. Thank you for letting me vent. I wasn't expecting for it all to just spew out like that," he confessed.

Looking at him, you nodded a blush had fully taken over his cheeks but a wide smile remained on his lips. He looked too adorable. The moonlight was highlight his facial features which left you starstruck. He truly was built like a God.

You scooted closer so you could wrap your arms around Wonwoo. He tried his best not to let his body go tense. Wonwoo just wasn't accustomed to someone showing him affection in such a physical way. To be honest, he couldn't remember the last time he actually had a hug.

Slowly, his arms wrapped around you to pull you in closer. You didn't mind his hold on you was a bit tight. He clearly needed it. Your head rested on his shoulder, which allowed you to get a whiff of his cologne. Teakwood and oak. It made your heart fluttered.

But what really sealed the deal was feeling Wonwoo's head rest on top of yours gently.

"Always here for you, Wonwoo." "Promise?" He whispered. "I promise."

[femalestyles]

stunt (h.s.)

masterlist

on Wattpad, I ended up shifting to present tense so the story will continue that way

TW: alcohol

wc: ~3.4k

-

12: pittsburgh, pa

My baby sister is here. In Pittsburgh.

After a long embrace, I pull away, taking a moment to study her. She’s dressed in a pink loungeset, hair piled on top of her head. A duffle bag is slung over her shoulder, the words University of Minnesota etched into the side in mustard yellow. Even fresh off a flight, she looks gorgeous.

People always told us that we looked alike, but I never really saw it. Lexi’s eyes were also green, but had specks of golden brown hidden in them--just like our mother’s. Her lips were fuller, with a perfect cupid’s bow. And unlike me, she has perfect vision, never needing to wear glasses.

She was the type of pretty that was undeniable.

Seeing her here now, I couldn’t help the guilt that clawed into my chest. We had hardly talked since New York, and it was all my fault. I should have checked in, asked how she was managing. Instead, I had been too wrapped up in my own misery, too distracted by the chaos of my life to remember that my sister had been studying all week. It was my job to call, to make sure she felt prepared.

“What are you doing here?” I squeal, gripping her arms as if she was just a hallucination. She had never mentioned joining us on tour at any point.

For a brief, irrational second, my mind spirals into worst-case scenarios. The joy in my face vanishes as my voice dropped to a whisper.

“Is everything okay?”

“Yes,” Lexi rolls her eyes, smiling widely. “I passed my midterms!”

Relief floods me, quickly replaced by pride. I lean forward for another quick squeeze. “Oh, Lex, that’s fantastic! I’m so proud of you.”

Lexi wasn’t dumb—not by any means. She just never had much patience for academics. She was all instinct, all action, the kind of person who thrived in real-world situations rather than the confines of a classroom.

“Figured I’d spend my fall break celebrating with you, and some of the sexiest men alive.”

I roll my eyes as we disengage, her attention now turning to Harper who stood a few feet away, trying to give us our space. With a bright smile, I wave her over, turning back to Lexi.

“Harper, this is my little sister, Lexi. Lexi, Harper is one of Mirage’s assistants and a close friend of mine.”

Harper is quick to pull Lexi in for a hug, as if she has known her forever. Lexi happily returns the gesture, still beaming when she pulls away.

The two of them had a similar fire about them. They were both fiercely loyal and overflowing with confidence. It meant that together, they would either blaze tenfold or burn everything around them to the ground.

Luckily, it seemed to be the former.

The two gush over each other instantly, sharing the same magnetic energy. Harper asks all about Lexi’s studies, and Lexi--of course--asks inappropriate questions about the members of Mirage. Harper spills everything, leaving out only the bits about her relationship with Louis and mine with Austin.

After about ten minutes, Harper excuses herself with the promise to meet up for dinner. I take that as my opportunity to grab Lexi’s duffle bag, leading her into the elevator and up to my room.

I shut the door behind us, walking over to set her bag on the bed.

“I’m thinking we can grab dinner with Harper and then retire early. Flight is late morning tomorrow.”

I turn back to face Lexi as I spoke, pausing when I saw the look on her face.

Her energy had shifted entirely, no longer happy and smiling as she was downstairs. The warmth that filled the room evaporates, sending a chill through my body.

Instead, concern blankets her features as she looks me up and down, still standing near the door.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Her voice was quiet. It wasn’t an accusation--she was hurt.

I freeze. My eyes widen in panic as the color drains from my face. My mouth opens and closes as I scramble for an answer.

How did she know? I had been so careful. In the few messages I had sent over the last week, I didn’t mention Austin at all. I had even avoided calling her, scared she would sense my distress over the phone.

Taking a deep breath, I move towards her, grabbing her hands in mine.

“I didn’t know how to tell you…” I explain, shaking my head. A hard lump forms in my throat, the feelings of the past week threatening to come back up. I swallow hard, my mouth unbelievably dry.

It was hard to get the words out. This was humiliating for me.

“You’re my baby sister. This is my burden to shoulder, not yours. I wanted you to focus on school, not worry about me.” I stare at her hopelessly, desperate for her to understand.

Typically, Lexi and I talked about everything under the sun but this was different. She was the one always coming to me with her boy troubles, seeking sisterly advice. I was too ashamed to tell her about Austin. What if she saw me as a failure? What if she didn’t come to me for advice anymore?

I couldn’t handle rejection from her, too.

It was clear that she didn’t accept my answer, but I cut her off before she could voice her disagreement.

“How did you find out anyway?” I question, raising an eyebrow. I keep her hands in mine, not letting her escape without an answer. My voice is laced with suspicion as I size her up, despite the fact that she was taller than me.

“Well, um,” Her face relaxes as she smiles again, biting her lip the same way I always do. If I looked at her hands in mine, I would find chipped nail polish from days of picking. Same mannerisms, totally different person.

“Niall said you weren’t doing too well, he thought you had told me already.” She speaks in a rushed tone, as if I wouldn’t hear what she said.

Now I’m the one with questions.

“You texted Niall? How did you even get his number?”

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely adore Niall. He is one of the kindest, most genuine people I’ve ever met. I’m beyond grateful to call him my friend.

However, I also know his affinity for women. Lots and lots of women.

Lexi shakes her head, digging in her hoodie pocket to produce her phone. She quickly opens up her text messages.

“No, he texted me! I swear!” She shoves the phone into my hands, displaying a short text thread from a few days prior.

8:57pm: Hiiiiiii it’s Niall

8:58pm: Do u have time to talk? Wanted to talk to u abt Jules

9:14pm: Niall Horan*** srry meant to say that

I roll my eyes, handing my sister her phone again.

“How many Nialls does he think you know?” I groan, despite the smile tugging at my lips. The only band member who had Lexi’s number was Austin, so Niall must have gotten it from him at some point.

It was a sweet gesture, even if I wanted him five feet away from my sister at all times.

Lexi giggles, shoving her phone back in her pocket.

After a few seconds, she grows serious again, scanning my face. “He was just worried about you. He didn’t know that I didn’t know, but when he told me, I knew I had to come see you.” She admits, sighing.

I understood completely. If the roles were reversed and Lexi had called me and told me her boyfriend cheated on her, I would have booked the next flight out. Without question. I would have sat by her side and played with her hair while she cried it out.

There is absolutely nothing I wouldn’t do for her.

“Well, I’m always happy to see you.” I confess, shaking off the unease. She would have found out sooner or later.

“I’ll tell you everything while we get ready for dinner. I’m starving.”

As she changes into a pair of jeans and satin blouse, I recount the last week. I tell her about Macy, Lena. I tell her about our fight the other night, the rage bubbling up again as I speak.

I don’t mention Harry coming by the room last night, knowing she would read into it as more than it was.

It wasn’t a big deal.

Surprisingly, my hotheaded sister manages to keep her cool throughout the entire story. She absorbs the information, briefly cussing Austin out before moving on. I sit on the closed toilet seat as she does her hair and makeup, listening as she caught me up on her recent college escapades.

She was super close with her roommate, Rachel, and they were planning to rush a sorority in the spring. She loved her classes, and was enjoying the single life for now. She had ordered a fake ID to enjoy the college bars on campus. She was loving college life.

My heart swells as she speaks. She was having the experience I never had--one full of bold choices, unrestrained laughter, and endless possibilities. She was living her life at full volume, just like I always wanted her to. All the times I had put myself on the back burner, making sacrifices, it was worth it--for this. For her.

❀

Two martinis with dinner was a bad idea.

I haven’t always been a lightweight, but over the past few years, I had stopped drinking as much and my tolerance dropped drastically. It doesn’t hit me until we’re stumbling out of the restaurant. There’s a sway in our steps as we start walking towards the hotel. Lexi sidles up beside me, linking our arms to steady us. The sweet smell of her perfume wafts towards me as she leans her head on my shoulder.

Ahead of us, Harper leads the way, her cheeks rosy from the alcohol. Sometime during dinner, the sun had set, taking the warm weather with it. A shiver runs through me, goosebumps rising under my white mock neck.

“Okay, Lexi. Fuck, marry, kill: Kourtney, Khloe, or Kim.” Harper offers.

We were deep into FMK, and the choices had only gotten more ridiculous. I had already married Meryl Streep, fucked Bradley Cooper, and killed Bill Murray.

I watch as Lexi contemplated. She hums against my shoulder, as if we were asking her to dissect Einstein’s Theory of Relativity.

“Fuck Kim—I mean…” She wiggles her eyebrows, Harper and I bursting into a fit of laughter. “Marry Khloe…sorry, kill Kourtney. I cannot live without sugar, or meat. Or cheese.”

I nod in agreement, my ears buzzing from the liquor. Lexi’s smirk grew devilish as she stands up straight, looking down at me.

“Fuck, marry, kill: Harry, Niall, Zayn.”

My nose scrunches. Harper looks equally intrigued as they both turn to me, waiting.

“Um, marry Zayn.” Easy choice.

They both nod, expecting that answer. I pull my lip between my teeth, the alcohol making my brain sluggish. After what feels like hours, I answer in a shy voice.

“I can’t fuck Niall. He’s like my brother,” I grimace, “So I guess…fuck Harry.”

Even saying it makes my face burn.

“God, imagine what he could do with a body like that,” Lexi slurs.

The hotel shines like a beacon of hope, saving me from the rest of this conversation.

As the cozy lobby envelopes us in warmth, we split apart, debating our next move. The game is long forgotten, left outside in the cold.

One look at the mischievous glint in Harper’s eyes, and I already knew where she’s going.

“I’m gonna head up to bed, but I’ll see you ladies on the plane tomorrow,” she smirks, leaning in to give us both a hug.

Oh, she was definitely going to bed. Just not her own.

I don’t call her out on it, unsure if she wanted Lexi to know about her exploits. It isn’t my business to share. We watch her go, before turning back to each other.

“Wanna rent a cheesy movie and raid the mini bar?”

Lexi always knows the way to my heart.

“Always,” I smile, walking towards the elevator. Throwing an arm around her shoulders, we make our way to the room. As we reach the door, I fumble in my purse, fishing out my key card, only to be met with a taunting red light as I tap it against the electronic lock.

I try again. Nothing.

I groan, pressing my forehead against the cool surface of the door. “You have got to be kidding me.”

Tapping the card a third time, a fourth—still, the lock blinked red.

I pull my phone out, realizing instantly what had happened. Fucking hell.

“Of course,” I mutter bitterly, holding up my key card with a glare. “Of course, my phone demagnetized the card.”

Lexi frowns, leaning against the wall next to the door.

“Stay here. I just have to run downstairs really quickly and get a new card.”

With a heavy sigh, I turn on my heel and stomp back around the corner toward the elevator, jabbing the down button a little harder than necessary.

The alcohol in my system makes everything feel light, like I was floating just above the ground.

The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, and I freeze.

Inside stands Harry and Niall.

Both dressed in workout gear, both slick with sweat.

Being able to run alone at night—yeah, that's definitely going on my list of reasons why men seem to have the upper hand.

Neither seems to notice my presence. Niall lets out an exaggerated groan, dragging a hand through his damp hair. “Not all of us can run a five-minute mile, mate,” he grumbles, shooting Harry a glare before weakly punching his shoulder.

Harry, unfazed, simply smirks in return. He was mid-swig from his water bottle, his throat bobbing as he swallows. His black AC/DC tank clings to his chest, damp with sweat, highlighting the hard lines of his collarbones and the taut muscle beneath.

“Maybe some of us should train more,” Harry teases, his tone edged with cocky amusement. His eyes glint playfully as Niall snatches the bottle from his hands, taking his own greedy gulp.

I swallow, hovering just outside the elevator, debating whether or not I should just turn around and take the stairs instead.

Too late.

Niall lowers the bottle, smacking his lips in satisfaction before glancing over—and finally noticing me standing there. Harry follows his gaze a beat later.

I raise a hand in a small wave, offering a weak smile, but I was certain the alcohol has glazed my eyes. Hopefully, they won’t notice.

Harry’s playful smirk fades, replaced by something unreadable. His eyes linger on me in a way that makes my stomach flip.

There was no trace of the shy, uncertain man from last night. He was gone.

This is the Harry Styles they describe in the media.

Dragging his gaze over me, slow and deliberate, like he was peeling back layers with nothing more than his eyes. Undressing me with his mind.

A hot shiver runs down my spine.

For a second, the air shifts, charged with something dangerously close to lust.

For a second, the air between us shifts. It’s thick, charged with something palpable, something almost dangerous. Electric, humming with tension--lust.

Luckily, I don’t have time to linger in it.

“Juliet Cooper,” Niall grins, his voice cutting through the moment.

In an instant, it’s gone. We’re back to something light, something safe.

Niall barely gives me time to react before wrapping me in a tight, bone-crushing hug.

I let out a startled laugh, my face momentarily squished against his damp t-shirt. He smells like citrus—clean, fresh, warm—despite the sweat clinging to his skin. I ignore the sticky embrace, winding my arms around his waist in return.

He presses a quick, affectionate kiss to my temple before pulling back, still holding my arms as he scans me with a cheeky grin. “Where were you at, looking so pretty?”

His eyes sparkle as he takes me in, his expression soft but teasing. He reaches up, lifting my hand over my head.

“Gimme a spin,” he prompts, wiggling his fingers.

A giggle escapes before I can stop it. That was the thing about Niall.

He always has a way of making things feel easy. Like I wasn’t too much. Like I wasn’t walking around carrying the heavy weight of heartbreak.

Obliging him, I spin in a small twirl, my skirt flaring slightly with the movement. When I steady myself, my hand instinctively lands on Niall’s shoulder, still smiling.

But my gaze drifts to Harry.

He had stepped out of the elevator now, his expression neutral once more.

“Mate,” he mumbles to Niall, his voice lower, rougher than before. “M’gunna shower.”

He nods slightly—at me? At both of us?—before turning and heading down the hall, disappearing without another glance.

I watch him go, lingering just a moment too long before shaking off whatever that was.

Niall has my full attention now, a tinge of worry in those kind, blue eyes. The last time we had talked was when he had tried to get me to come to the concert, and I had assured him that I was fine. I don’t mention my sister, yet, wanting to keep her to myself for one more night.

“You really do look nice,” He’s sincere with his words, squeezing my hand one more time before stepping off the elevator. I lean my head against the elevator wall as the doors closed, staring up at my mirrored reflection on the ceiling.

The warm, potent feeling in my stomach spreads through me, a low burn that I try to brush off.

It’s just the alcohol.

❀

“Juli, wake up!”

A pair of hands shakes me, violently ripping me from my slumber. Groaning in protest, I roll over, shoving my face into the pillow. Maybe if I ignore her long enough, she’ll stop.

“We overslept!”

Shit.

It feels like someone dumped a bucket of cold water on me. I shoot up, Lexi’s phone shoved in my face. Five minutes to get downstairs.

We launch out of bed simultaneously, moving in a frantic blur. I yank on a pair of sweats and an oversized hoodie, shoving my glasses onto my face. There’s no time for makeup, barely enough to brush my teeth—I’m lucky if I get toothpaste on all of them.

Lexi is just as rushed, pulling her hair into a messy ponytail as we shove the last of our belongings into our bags.

With our shoes halfway on, we bolt out the door.

The elevator ride down is agonizingly slow, our feet tapping impatiently against the floor. I have never missed transport before.

When the doors finally open, I immediately spot Harper standing with the guys. They’re mid-conversation, but Lexi and I rush toward them, effectively cutting it short.

All six of them turn to look at us.

I don’t know whose gaze I’m avoiding more--Harry’s or Austin’s.

“Alexandria Cooper,” Niall interrupts my thoughts, smiling charmingly at my sister. Even in her sweats, she looked gorgeous. She smiles back, her confidence not at all affected by her appearance. She knows she’s pretty, too.

“You’re a sight for sore eyes.” He adds.

Gag.

I roll my eyes, shooting him a wary look. Lexi, on the other hand, basks in his attention. She bats her eyelashes, letting out an airy giggle as she makes her way to him.

Niall pulls her into a big hug, briefly lifting her off the ground. When he sets her down, she greets Harry, Louis, and Zayn as well.

As she reaches Austin, the air in the room shifts. He stands in front of her awkwardly, keeping his hands glued to his side. He looks uncomfortable, not sure if he should speak, or try to give her a hug.

The slap comes so fast none of us have time to react.

Austin’s head whips to the side, his hand shooting up to cradle his cheek.

Lexi’s hand is still midair, fingers splayed. Her eyes are narrowed, searing into him.

Silence falls over the group.

Niall’s jaw drops. Louis’ eyes widen. Zayn raises an eyebrow. Harper has both hands clamped over her mouth, her whole body shaking with suppressed laughter.

Harry? He doesn’t bother hiding his amusement.

I just stand there, absolutely horrified.

“Let’s go,” Lexi exhales, as if a huge weight just lifted off her shoulder.

And just like that, she turns on her heel and walks straight out the front door.

-

taglist: @behindmygreyeyes @sassamanda77 @indierockgirrl

[astr0disiac]

⚠️IMPORTANT UPDATE⚠️

People have told me that I don't owe anyone an explanation, but I hate going back on my word.

Hurricane Helene and Milton have displaced me and my family drastically. Thanks to some friends in high places, I have been able to find some stability again while our house is under construction. They know who they are, and I am forever grateful. And because of midterms being thrown off, I've had to throw myself into my studies while simultaneously getting my house in order. I had to pick up other jobs because my other one was completely closed after the storm due to renovations. So I do apologize for the wait, it wasn't supposed to be this long. I am safe, so there's that!

As a treat, I will be posting BLOOD ON THE TRACKS, starting October 26th-31st to celebrate the last few days of the spooky month. There are only 5 chapters, but the last one may be an authors note, or and extra day in case I fall behind again. They will be posted at 10PM EST.

In terms of MISTY, it will be put on hiatus as BLOOD ON THE TRACKS has become my priority. The good news is that I can use some of my experience with the storm to finish writing! The bad news is that I may not be able to MISTY before the new year. I really wanted to finalize it by it's one year anniversary, but that may not happen. There are only 3 chapters left, but I'm trying to tie up themes and loose ends so that the ending is cohesive and makes sense. I was going to post the next chapter last week, but I've been so unhappy with it, and felt it was way too short compared to other chapters. It wouldn't have been satisfying for either party, and I would rather take my time and produce something I'm proud of than rush to make readers happy. It will most likely be posted in November. That being said, TIANAMI TUESDAY'S will also be on hiatus while I play catch up. Hopefully everything will be back to normal by December, and the new Tianami story I'm working on will be posted in the new year *wink*. That is the plan, but life is unpredictable. I won't make any concrete promises, but know that I am doing my best to create content for yall.

Kinktober is obviously cancelled which works for me because I didn't really want to do it. Requests are open for any writing prompts to make up for it! If I do end up posting the few that I have, it will be on AO3 so that I can backdate it and make it look like I'm a consistent author. I may do another month challenge, because they truly are fun, but this month is a no. I do apologize for that! Maybe next year.

I'm so sorry for all these problems and apologies, and I will make it up to you all. I simply ask for a bit of understanding as I try and return to normalcy.

In the mean time, please enjoy this excerpt from BLOOD ON THE TRACKS.

Every time Tiana grew near, Nanami felt strange.

No, it wasn’t the presence of bashfulness usually found in juvenile couples, they had been married for five years now, and dated in high school. There was nothing to be shy about.

And no, it wasn’t an intense desire that lurked in more sentimental moods, not even with Tiana’s lingering finger tips ghosting over his warm body in the cool of the night.

That’s what made the feeling even stranger.

It was dark.

It was plain odd.

Nanami had a very keen sense of discernment when it came to the beings beyond; he had retired from a life of sorcery 3 years ago, but to Tiana he had simply retired early from a day job as a regular salaryman. He couldn’t divulge her into such dangers, being together was already a risk in itself. Not to mention, Tiana was very superstitious and had a certain level of discernment of her own. While she called them “loa”, Nanami knew them as cursed spirits. Some may call them demons, ghosts, phantoms, the paranormal; they were all very similar by how they interacted with the physical realm.

And that was usually by causing some sort of mischief and a sense of despair.

An influx of cursed spirits had begun to infiltrate their home, hiding in dark corners or shaded areas, skirting around the borders and slithering under their floorboards. It would wake Tiana up at night in a frenzy, and while the spiritual cleansing she did with her sage and incense helped, it didn’t permanently rid themselves of the problem. So Nanami, who didn’t even break his exorcism streak to help the daunted citizens on the streets of New Orleans, found himself back on the clock around the clock. When he decided to move here with Tiana, he knew he was bound to run into those fleshless beings, he just never expected them to run amuck in his own home.

Especially to this extent.

Thank you for your support! See you soon!

[mystery08my]

Family isn't always through Blood

“Captain, catch!” Tenma yelled.

Shindou caught the ball midair, kicking the ball towards the net. The ball went past their goalkeeper, Shinsuke, making it a goal.

Tenma ran from his place, engulfing his upper classmate in a hug from behind in celebration. “Good job captain!” he exclaimed with a wide smile on his face.

Shindou looked down at his underclassmen with a fond smile, “Thanks. You too! I wouldn’t have made the goal without your help!”

Tenma smiled up at the ex-captain, opening his mouth to say something before he was cut off.

“That’s enough training for today,” their coach, Endou exclaimed, calling them all in for a discussion.

The whole team walked in, wondering why their coach would call them in so early.

At this point it had been a whole month since the end of the tournament, and it is easy to say that a lot has changed since. Raimon kept getting thank you cards from other teams, who were also under Fifth Sector’s rule, thanking them for their bravery and for freeing soccer.

Raimon themselves have started to become a lot closer than before. They started hanging out more often, spending most lunches together, and having homework sessions.

In Tenma’s opinion, he couldn’t ask for more. To him, it seemed like a dream come true. Being able to play on his favorite team without the orders of anyone. It was a drastic change from how they started, with everyone being sad and broken. He couldn’t stand the looks in their eyes. The look of sadness, loneliness and hatred. The latter being aimed at him.

However, now he looks around and sees the complete opposite. Everyone seems so happy, being able to play soccer as much as they want.

Recently, they had midterms, so they minimized the practice to once a week, to give everyone time to study. Tenma has spent the last two weeks studying day and night, in order to get the highest grade possible. Now that they are done exams, he couldn’t be more thankful to be back on the field playing his favorite sport with his friends.

Read the rest of the fic on AO3 or here

[beautifulsnake2162020]

We have it all (Hualian adopted daughter fanfic) Chapter 9

Disclaimer: This is a work of fanfiction. I only do this for fun.

Premise: Not long after comforting a bullied girl named Meng Ai, Hua Cheng and Xie Lian find themselves adopting her and together they form a family they didn't know they had needed for awhile.

Story/Genre tags: Slice of life-ish (mainly), Family focused, Hua Cheng's houses finally become homes, there may be an overarching story but that's not the focus, Hualian being parents, Fengqing being uncles, Lang Qianqiu falling in love with someone who was raised by the Xianle squad, technically post-canon (though I haven't read the books so if there are some ooc moments please forgive me).

AO3 Link

Chapter 1, Chapter 2 , Chapter 3, Chapter 4, Chapter 5, Chapter 6, Chapter 7, Chapter 8

Follower tags: @anonimgato1507

AN: I finally read the entire TGCF/HOB book series (including the extras) during my post midterm academic break - I'm still crying right now at how good it is (Also I can't believe how a certain heavenly rockery was defiled hahaha).

CW: There will be a blood draining scene in this chapter and it involves the inflicting of wounds and drawing out blood. I personally don't think that it's too graphic but I'm putting this up just to be safe. If it makes you uncomfortable it is a skippable scene (just go to the next scene i.e. the next scene after my line barrier).

Chapter 9

"Happy 14th Birthday Guzi. It's quite exciting having your growth spurt begin isn't it?" Xie Lian says as he gives him a recipe book on various meat dishes. It was going to be winter in a few weeks and this was one of the last few chances that Guzi could spend outside before snow began to cover the lands. His last visit with Guzi was during the weeks leading up to Meng Ai's birthday when he was at most just above Lang Qianqiu's waist, and now Guzi had grown taller by several cun.

"Thank You Scrap Collector Gege. Will you give me martial lessons soon?" Xie Lian and Lang Qianqiu have been talking of arrangements on giving martial arts lessons to Guzi.

"If you'd like, I'll come here three times every week after every a couple of days for your training." The room lightens up at Guzi's smile. He had been seen admiring Lang Qianqiu's martial arts practices whenever it was by himself or when it was sparring with others. While some would argue that Pei Xiu was stronger and more powerful than Lang Qianqiu, there was no question that Lang Qianqiu had the skills that showed everyone why he was even considered as the martial God of the East. When it was revealed that Xie Lian himself had trained him, there were now less questions among the heavens on Lang Qianqiu's skills in martial arts. It was when Guzi had asked him to teach him the martial ways that he found himself not only praising his Guoshi but also reflect on what has happened between them.

"When do we start Scrap Collector Gege?"

"You'll begin after the winter." Lang Qianqiu says before Guzi runs of to take his culinary lessons. An unusual choice of education to any outsider. But this allowed Guzi to mitigate his taste for human flesh while slowly coming to terms with his previously abusive life. And this became beneficial for everyone and Guzi enthusiastically prepared many of the dishes served for his modest birthday celebration. All under the supervision of his chef turned mentor who had a wide and deep experience in handling various meats and protein.

"I've heard you've taken another in - is that true?" Lang Qianqiu asks once they were alone.

He remains silent but his expression confirmed Lang Qianqiu's question.

"Hm? How did that happen?"

"I didn't say anything."

"If there's nothing wrong then why can't you tell me?" Lang Qianqiu asks earnestly.

"Not here Qianqiu. Please."

There was silence - neither a denial or an admission.

"You really can't say anything to me now?"

"Not here Qianqiu, that's all I can say for now."

He could tell that his Guoshi wanted to say more but he can't. And so he decides to drop the issue for now. They bid farewell to each other. Closer than they were last time but not close enough for Lang Qianqiu to comfortably give him a hug. It was still too awkward and no matter how much he wants to, Guzi has become his priority right now.

"Did I hear right? Hua Cheng and Xie Lian has a daughter now?"

"General Pei."

Pei Ming emerges from his spot just around the corner.

"Perhaps I should stop by personally."

"She's too young for you."

"I wasn't going to do anything to her."

"Then why do you want to see her?"

"No need for that suspicious tone Tai Hua, I'm just curious that's all. It seems Qi Ying and I are the only ones who aren't informed of this news."

Lang Qianqiu became concerned that he might have accidentally shared what was supposed to be a secret. Throughout all these years he could admit to himself that he wondered how he managed to rule Yong'an and get around in the Upper Court on his own. He may not be good in politics but he will do what he knows is right. And right now that is to try to persuade the more popular General Pei from spreading the implied secret around.

"And if you know what's good for you, you won't spread it around."

"Oh? Why not?"

"It involves some of Jun Wu's worshippers."

Lang Qianqiu and Pei Ming turn around at the new voice that had startled them.

"General Xuan Zhen, I was wondering when either you or General Nan Yang would join us."

"And if you know what's good for you then you wouldn't say anything to anyone here. It's a delicate situation which dated back to the days of Wuyong." At this Pei Ming became serious and Lang Qianqiu was stunned.

"Let me guess - it's not safe to discuss the details here because of Ling Wen? I could take care of that."

"It's too big of a risk, you'll understand why when we see you both to discuss this." Pei Ming raises his eyebrow and Lang Qianqiu couldn't help but be suspicious.

"How come Guoshi didn't say anything to me earlier while he was here?"

"There were eyes and ears on him. He couldn't be as detailed as he wants. And Guzi was still within hearing shot, we couldn't take any chances." He tosses a pair of dice to them.

"He made an exception for now. Wait a couple hours after I leave. The third toss will bring you to where we are. You know what to do."

______________________________________________________________

"Hmm."

"Is it bad?"

"It's clumsy." Ji Huifan says as he looks at the latest translation attempt of the Butterfly Lovers Meng Ai made. Once again they were speaking in the Daxian language to help her practice it. In the study room Hua Cheng had gone tired practicing his calligraphy and with Xie Lian's permission had began painting an image instead. A skill which was far better than any character that would come from his calligraphy. Xie Lian was by his side reading Ji Huifan's notes on the Daxian language for beginners who were learning from the Han tongue.

"What do you mean? I translated every word and made sure it's in the correct grammar and syntax."

"Yes, you did a direct translation which is still good. But it is still clumsy." He takes a seat beside her as he points out lines in her work.

"This is a good direct translation of a Han figure of speech."

"Thank you Baba. But why is it clumsy?"

"Imagine yourself as someone born and raised in Daxia or within Daxian culture. Do you remember the various stories and myths they like to tell and spread?" She nods as she recalls everything she could about Daxian culture.

"Now with that in mind, do you think anyone would understand this saying?" Her face shifts once she realizes this.

"Oh."

"Exactly."

"Then what do I do?"

"Use something from their culture that is the closest to what this Han saying wants to convey. That is how you elevate a translation away from simply translating words."

"But wouldn't that remove what makes it beautiful in the Han language?"

"It's inevitable that it would happen, which is why translations also include notes providing context for certain sayings. This is why translators are still prized along the silk road since they have a hard task of connecting two different types of cultures into understanding each other. The best translations convey the intended meaning while also retaining the beauty of it's context in it's own original culture as much as it could. Isn't that right Dianxia?"

"Certainly Ji Huifan."

"Did you translate things too Baba Lian?"

"A little bit, not to the same degree that your Baba is teaching you now, but I used to be fluent in the language of the Banyue kingdom."

"The kingdom who kept fighting with Yong'an?"

"Yes, I used to be a soldier for Yong'an and would sometimes translate their language to Han. I'm not as fluent in it now since I haven't practiced speaking or reading it in awhile I'm not as good as I was back then."

"Still Gege you were able to get an idea of the cultural differences between the two kingdoms."

"Honestly, it's part of the reason I believe that the negotiations were going nowhere. Neither side was willing to listen and consider why the opposing side held the perspectives they had."

"It could be, or they simply didn't want to understand each other."

"So as you can see Aiai, translation is more than just simply saying the same words in another language: it's about doing your best to translate the meaning from one culture to another."

Ji Huifan sets aside her work and opens his notebook in a section which showed figures of speech from both Han and Daxian.

"While these aren't all figures of speech of either language this is a good starting point for you to understand how Han and Daxian expresses love between star-crossed lovers. Study them, read the stories from both cultures. Afterwards you'll make your next translation attempt."

"Yes Baba. Just wondering when can I translate a story into Han?"

"Which story did you have in mind?"

"The story of King Midas and his golden curse."

"Hmm not bad, alright I'll let you translate that into Han once I'm satisfied with your translation of the Butterfly lovers."

"Oh? What's this story Xiao Ai?"

"It's about a King named Midas who wished that everything he touched would turn into gold. At first he was glad because he became wealthier the more things turned into gold. But then he realized that he couldn't drink water and became thirsty, he couldn't eat because when he touched his food it would also become gold and he became hungry. Then finally his little daughter reached up to hug him and to his horror she also turned to gold. Afterwards it depends on the story teller Baba Lang."

"Hmm why?"

"Some versions let him live out the rest of his cursed wish till he dies. Other versions makes him do some sort of sacrifice or an act of humility to remove the curse. The only thing that all versions agree on is that he made the wish to turn everything he touched into gold and he later regretted it when he couldn't drink, eat, or embrace his daughter. Which version do you want me to translate Baba?"

"Since you want to translate it from Daxian, then we'll do the version wherein Dionysus, the God who granted him his wish undoes it in the end after he shows him that he now understands the consequences of his wish."

"Alright Baba."

"Xiao Ai, would you like to take a break and visit Qiandeng Temple? We haven't shown you what it was like on the inside."

"But isn't that where you and Baba Lang do the married couple thing?"

"Ma-married couple thing?"

"That's what Baba Lang said."

At this Hua Cheng couldn't help but laugh as Xie Lian blushes with embarassment.

"She asked and I didn't want to lie to our daughter."

"Why is Baba Lian becoming red?"

"San Lang please tell me you didn't actually tell her what it is."

"Huh? What's the big deal?"

"We'll tell you when you're older little one."

The new family of three headed out, each father holding one hand of their daughter as they head to Qiandeng Temple. The crowds parted and lingered for awhile before Hua Cheng told them to mind their own business.

"Why do they do that?"

"They admire your Baba Lang, he's the one who made and runs this City."

"Ignore them little one, if it makes you uncomfortable I'll tell them to stop doing it."

"I was just asking Baba Lang! Hehehe."

He smiles at her when he is assured that she doesn't mind the attention the ghosts were giving them. She never had this treatment before being just so used to fleeing from one place to another when there was any sign of danger to her or her family.

She's curious about them, don't worry San Lang.

All she needs to do is ask Gege.

We both know that, but she's fine, she's just curious about the ghosts who live here. This is her first time seeing them since you had Yin Yu escort her and her parents by using the dice whenever they travel around. They don't mean her harm.

Even without their private channel Xie Lian knew what to say to get him to relax a little bit. Xie Lian had a strong instinct in detecting killing instinct towards either himself or to the people he loves. As much as the citizen ghosts could be annoying at times, his beloved was right in saying that he can relax a bit more lest he might alarm Xiao Ai.

Once they were inside the temple Xie Lian notices some prayers that he needs to address.

"Hmm this is a strange one."

"What is it Gege?"

"This prayer is from a new family. They recently were given a new house by a rich merchant. But there seems to be sentient objects that would harm anyone who entered. There's no Daoist priest nearby and so they sent a prayer to me."

"May I come?"

"Xiao Ai it could be dangerous."

"I promise I'll behave Baba Lian, I want to go somewhere new."

"We can go somewhere new later."

"But how can I exercise my powers in talking to different ghosts if you won't let me?"

"This isn't a game Meng Ai, I don't want anything to happen to you."

"Gege let's go together, that way one of us will be with her."

"Please Baba Lian. I promise I'll be good. I want to know what you do as a God."

"...Very well. But stay close to us alright."

"Yes Baba."

He didn't know whether to laugh or cry when she takes his hand and Hua Cheng throws a dice. A part of him couldn't believe he had let her join them but a part of him had a feeling that she might try to find a way to sneak herself to watch this new mission. At least if he and Hua Cheng are there he could at least be comforted that she will have supervision and protection should anything happen.

They arrive at the outskirts of a city and Hua Cheng puts a disguise on himself and Meng Ai. He shapeshifts into his San Lang appearance while he gave Meng Ai violet eyes upon her request and a glamour to make her blend in with them.

You made them similar to Banyue's

She's curious about her. When things are a little more secure perhaps you could invite Banyue so that she could ask her things only she could answer.

And I thought you knew everything San Lang.

He couldn't help but chuckle mentally as he feels Hua Cheng mentally stick his tongue out to him.

There are some things that only Banyue could answer - such as what does she see in Pei Xiu.

Point taken.

"Stay close to us."

"Yes Baba Lian."

Holding tightly to both of her fathers they go into the city and were lead into a modest house in a dense area nearby the impoverished areas of the city.

"Maybe it's a scam! A scam I tell you! Those Wu bastards just wants to kill you two!"

"Mama please, it's still a good price! We just need to find someone who could cleanse the space."

"You and your wife are better off here! It may not be much compared to what the Wu gave you but you grew up here, we could make a new room for my grandchild. This place isn't cursed like what the Wu gave you."

"Mother perhaps they didn't know that it was cursed."

"My dear trust me those Wu have it out for everyone who is better than they are and they know it! Your husband had beaten their son in the recent civil exams and this is how they are taking their revenge!"

Xie Lian takes this chance to knock on their door. A young scholar with a short beard opened the door, his look was exasperated from the argument they heard from outside.

"Hello there, we came to help with the cursed house?"

"Oh Daozhang, thank goodness come in! Mama! See someone came to help with cleansing our new house."

Later just after sunset, the three of them find themselves in a grand house in one of the more affluent part of the city. It was both accessible enough to anyone and yet because of the energy surrounding it, the house became isolated with it's nearest neighbors being at least half a kilometer away on both sides. From what the young scholar said, he was able to buy this house from the Wu family who offered it to him at an affordable price. He couldn't waste such an opportunity to provide better living for his wife and mother with more space than their current house. When he and his wife inspected the house to see if it needed any repairs or if things needed to be bought before they moved in to it, objects would move out of their place. It was benign at first but then it's as if the objects were forcibly putting themselves on front of them on their own.

And then when they turned their backs on them after not using them the objects hurled themselves at them which chased them out of the house. They made several attempts but the last attempt nearly lead into a miscarraige of their unborn child in the early stages of his wife's pregnancy.

"Xiao Ai, stay close to Baba Lang okay?"

"Yes Baba Lian."

They enter the premises, the rooms were filled with ghostly qi. Not necessarily so malevolent as a savage, but it was more dangerous than a simple malice.

"It's everywhere Baba Lang."

"I know, what do you see?"

"It's as if everything is cloaked in it's presence. It's everywhere all at once."

A Menace then?

Yes, it's not powerful enough to kill an entire city. But the ghostly qi is powerful enough that I could detect it everywhere in this house.

Enough that Xiao Ai could see it everywhere.

Just then they heard a movement. A vase meant to hold flowers moved closer towards them from it's previous spot at the center of the table.

"Hmph at least it's not shy."

"Babas, is it me or do you hear something like wind chimes? It sounds like something from a hair stick with those long fancy tassels."

Then they hear it. It was soft but once they both listened closely there was the soft sounds of metal bumping into metal. It was so soft that it wasn't noticeable beneath the sounds of other objects moving towards them. But now that Meng Ai mentioned it, the soft ringing was present all over.

Hua Cheng and Xie Lian shared a look.

"Xiao Ai go to Baba Lian and duck."

She ducks as she scurries to Xie Lian's side as Hua Cheng catches an incense burner that was aimed at her head. The once soft sounds of metal tassels now noticeably louder.

"We want to talk, whomever you are please come out."

A lifted teapot in one corner and in another an ink stone. Both objects were prepared to be hurled towards them.

And yet Xie Lian did not feel any killing intent.

"We prefer not to force you, we know you don't want to harm us. You just want to drive us away. Right?"

The teapot and the inkstone were still hurled towards them but at a far enough spot that didn't actually hurt them.

"Let us help you, please let's talk."

Suddenly a lot of ghostly qi was focused on one object, the sound of metal ringing accumulated there. Xie Lian bends down and carries Meng Ai to prevent her from stepping on any of the broken objects on the floor. Hua Cheng lights up the room as they go towards the ghostly qi.

It was focused on a blank paper on the wall, but as they go nearer and the metal ringing became louder, the paper slowly shows a painting of a teenage girl wearing a half bun secured by a hairstick with metal tassels. She was dressed in wedding robes with the veil on her hands. Her expression upon first glance was stoic, but her eyes showed a mix of fury and frustration.

"Who are you?"

"Who are you?! How dare you come to my sanctuary?"

"Sanctuary?"

"It had been mine for the last three years."

"Is this where you died?"

"No! I would never violate this place with a rotting corpse. Not even my own."

"But this is where your ashes are."

Hua Cheng says and the ghost girl's mood shifts to one of fright.

"Cooperate with us if you don't want them destroyed. Go ahead Gege."

The ghost girl let's out a sigh as she gazes at them in frustration.

"Let's start again. Who are you and why are you here?"

"My name is Chen Bingxue, this place used to be my private garden before my husband Wu Shuai stole it from me after I died."

"He killed you?"

"Yes Daozhang, he only married me and gave a high bridal gift to my father just to get his hands on this land. When I went here to dwell in it for the last time, do you know what I found? Wu Shuai destroying everything I cultivated and gave life to just to build this structure over everything I had worked hard for."

"There's more isn't there."

Hua Cheng says in a tone that left no room for disobedience. Chen Bingxue looks down, forcing herself to not shed tears as she continues.

"I'll admit, it pained me that he was destroying my garden. But I already expected it when my mother told me that I was to be betrothed to him."

She takes a breath before she meets their gazes.

"What hurt me the most was seeing my father give him the very tools he needed to destroy the garden. The very garden that he had given me...I...I knew that I was nothing more than a tool for him. My mother was his concubine after all...but I had thought...I had thought that he loved me enough to not destroy the only place where I felt needed as a person."

"Your sanctuary."

On Meng Ai's words and hearing the sincerity in them, Chen Bingxue could no longer hold back her tears.

"Yes, this was the only place where I didn't feel like I was less than human. Nature may not care who cultivates it, but it always made me feel at peace...only for it to be destroyed by everyone who saw me as nothing more than an obstacle to get this land."

"Is that why you keep throwing objects at everyone? So that you'll be alone here while you also destroy everything here?"

"Other people destroyed my sanctuary first, why shouldn't I destroy everything here so that nature could claim this land once again?"

Her response was daring Meng Ai to answer. But both Xie Lian and Hua Cheng knew that Chen Bingxue was not in a state to listen.

"Little one she's not in the mood to listen."

"Baba may I try? Please."

After exchanging a look with Xie Lian he nods reluctantly. She turns to the Chen Bingxue.

"Because even when it was your private garden and sanctuary it didn't belong to you."

"How dare you! You little -"

"It didn't belong to you because you and your family were borrowing from nature!"

When she got her attention and that she was now listening to her Meng Ai continued.

"You are still want to be here because it was your sanctuary. It was your sanctuary because you cared and loved everything that grew in it and those memories made you happy. But before it became your sanctuary it first belonged to nature. And it continues to belong to nature even now. A house on this land does not make that false. It's not the place itself that made you happy, it's because you cared and nurtured what you love that made you happy."

"You sound so sure little girl."

"I'm sure because up until a few months ago my family and I had to keep moving from place to place just to survive."

Chen Bingxue looks at her in shock.

"We lived in plenty of interesting places, and there were some when I had so many happy memories. But I was happy because of what I was doing with the people I love. It's not the place that matters but what you do in it that matters."

Out of her sight Hua Cheng and Xie Lian shared a smile.

"You don't have to stay here just to be happy again."

"I...I'm not sure I'm...I don't think I could move on."

"You don't have to. You're a ghost now so you can take as much time as you want. I'm still mortal and I sometimes wish I had as much time as you do now."

"Yes...you're right...I do have time."

Chen Bingxue fades away from the paper leaving it blank again. The paper fell and behind it was a shelf that contained a jewelry box with floral embellishments and motifs.

"Baba Lang is that..."

"Yes little one."

He picks up the jewelry box and brings it to them.

"These are her ashes."

______________________________________________________________

On the docks by the ports in Panyu the group of mage mercenaries had an undercurrent of confidence. After years of searching, their leader Ji Lihua finally found a bloodmatch. External reports confirmed that their target in question was now dwelling in Panyu. Together with him was a woman and a little girl who shared his blood.

It was them, finally they could get the rest of their reward once they deliver to King Ji Huifan their heads and the little girl who will now finally be within their group.

"Baba there's a pretty hairstick with pearls -"

"It's too expensive Aiai, and you haven't beaten anyone in Go yet."

"I didn't say I want to buy it!"

"We know you Aiai." The woman chastizes the little girl.

"Once something pretty catches your eye you want to know if we'll buy it for you. The answer is still no."

Ji Lihua chuckles.

"Finally we found them. All these years of being away from Fu Dao will finally end."

"Is it really them?"

"It's him, my pathetic brother."

"They're not clones your highness?"

"No, they're not. That's why I'm finally glad that this will be over soon."

"Do we attack them now?"

"No, but have the assassins tail them and keep them in their sights. And when the time is right we'll corner them."

Ji Lihua then turns to her subordinates.

"Start summoning your creatures now. They shouldn't escape us this time."

For four weeks they observed the trio, their routines, habits, and interests. They resided in Xiwangmu's temple not far from the port but it was located in a secluded enough spot that would offer peace and tranquility to anyone seeking refuge in her holy grounds.

As the sun set on the tenth day of the fourth week Ji Lihua gave the signal to begin the attack. Her assassins begin to go to any expected route that they could possibly escape to. The only way the three of them could possibly escape them now is if Ji Huifan opened a portal going elsewhere. And the spells used to open such a portal could be manipulated to be kept open for them to follow wherever they fled.

There was a high chance of success.

And to ensure that her mission would finally end she'll finally stop being lazy and follow them through the portal once it opens. Her mage of a brother may put up a fight but now that he is mortal it's quite clear that he would be no match against a mediocre fighter like her. She admits reluctantly that her advisers were right in saying that she needs to get involved to finally end their years long pursuit. And she could go back to sleeping in silk sheets and eating Anxian dishes from Fu Dao's royal kitchens.

The family of three made their way back to the temple of Xiwangmu as the sun sets and darkness begin to emerge. As per their usual routine they took the route that was more crowded. Possibly thinking that the likelihood of a magical attack or a kill by either assassins or mercenaries would be unlikely in a crowded area that cloaked their targets. A commotion suddenly happened. What it was, none of them wanted to know. Making sure that no one was missing, they hastened their steps toward the temple.

And in the semi-secluded route emerged the assassins and some mage mercenaries with their creatures.

"Surrender her to us now and you will live."

"Never."

"Are you sure about that A-fan?"

Her voice scratches his ear as they turned around to face her.

"Lihua."

"Have I finally impressed you A-fan? You are surrounded. If you'll hand the little thing for the sacrifice then I'll let you and your bitch free to make another. You're capable of making one, there's no reason why you can't make another."

"She is your niece!"

"You of all people should know that blood alone does not make one family."

Tension arises in the air.

"Still blind as ever."

"I could say the same about you. You claim to be the enlightened one after A-jie and yet you are the one who flees and evade. You can't outrun the inevitable brother."

"And what makes you think you are inevitable?"

"Aren't you a priestess? A bitch who could see the future."

"Even I know that no paths are bound."

Ji Lihua gives a hand signal and both assassins and the mage mercenaries prepare to attack.

"Last chance, give the girl to me now!"

"No, dear sister."

With her free hand Jing Mei throws a smoke bomb as Ji Huifan quickly opens a portal and the three of them flee inside it. Before the portal could close several mages uses spells to keep it open as assassins, mages, and the creatures they controlled follow inside. When she deemed that the number of mages and assassins were sufficient she herself enters the portal before closing.

Upon entering the sight before her makes her shocked and confused.

The portal opened to a beach, but it had an air of isolation. The waters were dark and it seemed only half of those who entered the portal had their corpses on the beach. And as the water reaches the shore she noticed just how dark it really was.

"Where the fuck did you escape to A-fan? Are you this desperate now?"

She closes her eyes and hones in on his blood, they weren't far from here and were in the midst of running somewhere in this island with his bitch and his spawn.

"You can't escape me now."

She uses her inhuman speed to go to where they are and appears on front of them.

"Think it would be that easy? Hahaha!"

"Lihua, please, it's not too late."

"Save your breath brother, you are mortal now. Better think of what's more important. Your life? Or the spawn's?"

"Mama -"

"No - don't listen to her Meng Ai. How dare you?!"

"Because I can Mei. Do you know how you have kept me from the joys of life back in Fu Dao just to be able to bring this little brat to Ji Bocheng?"

Ji Huifan's hands begin glowing.

"Lihua, don't make me do this."

"Really? When you know that you are weaker than me now?"

"If that's what it takes. Meng Ai don't let go of your mother! Run."

"Ah ah ah not so fast."

With ease she appears before them as Ji Huifan manages to blast energy her way. Successfully pre-empting where she would go.

"Just because I'm mortal now doesn't mean that you will win."

"And I want to go home now!"

Thus begins their fight. Or rather Jing Mei and the little girl finding anywhere to flee to while Ji Huifan keeps Ji Lihua distracted. What he lacks in strength and power compared to his sister, he makes up for in knowing how predictable she could be with new room to adjust to any new movements.

But even he knew that he could only have enough stamina for so long.

"Tired A-fan?"

"You haven't seen anything yet."

"You're right, I'll finish you later. I've got a brat to capture."

"You won't get her."

"Oh?"

She gives him a sarcastic look.

"Then how come I could sense three things?"

"What?"

"One, she's still wherever this shithole is; two, she and your bitch ran but got separated; and three, she's over -"

She quickly runs to a spot behind Ji Huifan as she now carries a struggling little girl.

"Baba!"

"Here."

"NO - Lihua, please - it's not too late."

"Fuck your bitch and make a new one. It won't be a big loss."

She was about to make a teleportation array when suddenly everything went dark in her vision. And before she knew it she was unconscious.

When she awakened she finds herself chained to a wall in a filthy dungeon. That's not the part that alarmed her. What alarmed her was the presence of multiple deities.

And a familiar face.

"What the fuck - you're a God?"

"So you do remember me."

General Pei crosses his arms as he raises an eyebrow at her.

"What - but how? She could detect divine aura and when it's a clone."

"Which is why we were lovers in her dreams. Give me more credit Nan Yang even I wouldn't take that risk."

"At this point who haven't you slept with."

Mu Qing says rolling his eyes as he turned to face Ji Lihua.

"No matter - I can't be killed. I'm immortal!"

"Good, we're not trying to kill you - should I do it or would you like to do the honors?"

"She's your former lover you do it."

Feng Xin quickly says as he gives Pei Ming a knife as Mu Qing reinforces her restraints.

"Just know - this is for your own good."

______________________________________________________________

Meanwhile in Paradise Manor, Chenxi and Shi Qingxuan were helping Meng Ai with the seamstress that happily served Shi Qingxuan for the past years. They were a good assistant and because of their personality, she was able to have more customers and was able to give back to Shi Qingxuan for their good eye in trends and design. In exchange she happily mended or redesigned their robes to keep up with the times.

"Are you sure it's okay for me to wear these colors A-xuan?"

"As long as it's not yellow or anywhere near the Emperor's embroidery designs on his robe you should be fine."

"But how come I see other people wear yellow?"

"Because they are part of a group - and that group has special permission to wear yellow. Now young lady let's show your elders." Xiang Li the seamstress says as she steps back and go beside Shi Qingxuan and Chenxi.

Meng Ai was wearing a rich dark blue dress with a crimson red outer robe that matched Hua Cheng's crimson red. It was still a basic fitting since white or cream embroidery will still be added to add harmony to two bright bold colors.

"What do you think Meng Ai?"

"I like the colors but I feel my sleeves are too big and the skirt is too long."

"Wouldn't you like to have more space for the embroidery?"

"But I also want to move around. I want to dance with my Babas for their wedding anniversary."

"You're in luck, their incoming wedding anniversary will be in the same week as the Shangyuan Festival this year."

Chenxi says as she holds up a few hair accessories against the dress.

"Yu Yingtai?"

"Yes Meng Ai?"

"Do you think Chen Bingxue will be okay? She still doesn't want to emerge from her ashes and she keeps telling me to not waste my time on her."

Chenxi sighs as she gives Shi Qingxuan the hair accessories she was contemplating on which suited Meng Ai better.

"Give her time Meng Ai, she's reflecting right now and you can't force someone to rush through that. Alright?"

"Yes Yu Yingtai."

"Good, now let me check your wound."

Meng Ai sits down and lifts the deep blue fabric enough to show her lower leg. What used to be a large gash because she tripped over a rock when she got a little too excited to arrive home in their cottage; was now reduced to scarring. That incident while painful was a blessing in disguise since her mother needed a sample of Meng Ai's blood in order to recreate its unique signature with the blood Ji Huifan and Jing Mei have been donating for this project. Once she finished her work she gave the vial of the recreated blood mixed with a potion for He Xuan (or one of his clones) to drink. This is one of the few crucial steps in order for their deception to work. The potion retained the reconstructed blood in the body for a week. In order to keep the blood and Meng Ai's blood signature in He Xuan, the same potion needs to be ingested regularly per week. So her mother gave six batches of the potion disguised as medicine that He Xuan acting as Meng Ai needed to drink.

"It's going to scar - which means it's healing. I'll give you something to reduce the scar leaving a mark."

"Thank you. By the way, do you know where my parents are?"

"Which ones?"

"All four of them. Did something happen to Baba and Mama? How about Baba Lang and Baba Lian?"

"Oh they're just busy doing something."

"Adult things?"

"Don't phrase it like that!"

"Huh?"

"Ignore them Meng Ai. Yes, they are doing adult things. You're not yet ready to know what yet."

"Is it married couple things?"

"Think more along the lines of getting rid of a pest."

______________________________________________________________

"How much blood does she have?"

Mu Qing asks as he restrains Ji Lihua's left arm while Feng Xin does the same with her right. Lang Qianqiu has recently joined in to restrain her legs while Pei Ming restrains her torso while silver butterflies continues to draw blood out of her body.

"This is barely a dent. Ji Huifan! How long did yours take?"

Feng Xin cries out as he was able to dodge a scratch from her nails which he holds against the wall and reinforces the energy in her bindings. Black water's chains while strong enough to keep her on the wall, its length still allowed her movement which she used to inflict any injury she could while she was currently bled out.

"Hold still Lihua, this is for your own good."

Pei Ming says as he makes another clean cut to an area that would allow her to still live but will have a large amount of blood poured out.

"Fuck you!"

"You already did. But if you want to try again outside of your dreams once this is over -"

"Really Pei? Right now?!"

"You're one to talk Nan Yang. We have had to endure you and Xuan Zhen flirting."

"Tai Hua I didn't say I minded it. As the God of Love I think it's refreshing for these two."

Even more silver butterflies enters the dungeon as Ji Huifan makes his appearance.

"My bloodletting took the entire night and I fell asleep at dawn. Brace yourselves, this isn't even much blood."

"How do we know when it's over?"

"When she starts experiencing grief. Or when her energy is so depleted that her body has no choice but to become unconscious. At that point the body will cure itself and will restore her mortality."

"How dare you do this to me!? A-fan do you hate me this much that you would deprive me of my power!"

He doesn't respond but instead casts a spell to help keep her wounds open so that more blood could be drawn out. Her spiritual energy was still high and they have only made a surface level dent to the energy she has. If she allows herself to grieve then it would make this faster. But his dear sister is too stubborn for that.

This was going to be a long night.

_____________________________________________________________

"Baba Lian! Mama!"

Meng Ai runs to the entrance of Paradise Manor greeting them with a hug.

"Wheres Baba and Baba Lang?"

"They are still doing their work. Now have you been a good girl to Yu Yingtai and A-xuan?"

"Yes Baba Lian. They are still here because they want Mama's opinion on the embroidery of my new clothes."

"Speaking of embroidery, would you like to practice tomorrow? Since Li Shuyue won't be coming tomorrow."

"Okay Mama. I'll do my best not to get pricked this time!"

"That's the spirit, now wash up for dinner."

As they get themselves ready for dinner, this time prepared by the Chef ghost of Paradise Manor who has become good friends with Jing Mei. He finally allows himself time to contemplate what the future might hold for Meng Ai.

Or to be more specific, what the future holds for Meng Ai and either Lang Qianqiu or Guzi.

After Pei Ming and Lang Qianqiu finally arrive at their location for their meeting on how to deal with the cursed immortal family of Fu Dao, Xie Lian finally starts feeling the weight he didn't know he was carrying lift a little bit.

"To answer your question." He feels himself relieved that he can finally speak in confidence to his former pupil.

"I can't tell you all the details out of respect for her parents but let's just say we did it to save her life."

"Is that why you're not in heaven as often?" He nods at his former student.

"Let's just say this involves a group of Jun Wu's worshippers hunting her down." He sees his eyes widen in concern.

"Guoshi, if you need any assistance please let me know - wait is she the six year old whom you wanted to introduce to Guzi?"

"She's seven now." He says with a smile.

"Perhaps they aren't exactly peers and I was being a little to generous."

"You were, friendship is not something you can force Guoshi."

"Not force but merely an introduction. Her true personality came out once she knew she was safe with us."

"Hmm I think Guzi hasn't come out of his shell yet. He's just starting to, but he's not there yet."

"Still if you ever change your mind or if you just want to speak to me..."

"I know Guoshi."

"Speaking of her parents, here they are right now. Lang Qianqiu, Pei Ming, this is Ji Huifan and Jing Mei. Huifan, Mei, these are Generals Ming Guang and Tai Hua."

After bowing before Lang Qianqiu Jing Mei's eyes begin glowing and suddenly had a rather lengthy vision. Once it was over she takes another look at his former student, this time discerning him for awhile.

"Hmm...you'll do."

"May I ask for what?"

"I sadly cannot tell you since I don't mind these visions of mine coming true. If I tell you, there is a high chance it won't come true."

"Wait visions?"

"I get them every now and then Dianxia Xie Lian. It's not always a singular vision."

She clearly wouldn't say more than that but it didn't escape his notice that she was observing Lang Qianqiu. Not with suspicion but more with discernment and consideration. What she saw must be something fortunate or at least something she wouldn't mind happening.

"May I ask what you saw which involved Lang Qianqiu?"

"You've been slowly telling him about Meng Ai?"

"Every now and then. Sometimes I worry if he might be jealous of the difference between how I mentored him and how I'm treating her."

"You know him better than I, but I will say to remove any doubts and show that you still care for him and that there is no reason to be jealous of her. He still calls you Guoshi and it seems your relationship is slowly being repaired. From what I understand you two are now talking more than before, yes?"

"Yes, but what does that have to do with what you saw?"

All she offers is a smile.

"Normally I wouldn't mind telling those not directly shown in the vision but considering what I saw I'm afraid I also couldn't tell you."

"It involves Meng Ai?"

"Let's just say, you'll know why I can't exactly tell you directly once you notice some things."

"Notice what? Is it because of San Lang's reaction?"

"Perhaps. That's all I could tell you Dianxia."

"Very well."

Xie Lian says with resignation.

"Should I introduce them?"

"Wait until she's older. That's the only clue I'm giving you."

______________________________________________________________

Lihua awakens after a tumultous ordeal. This time she was in a bed, but still in some other part of the dungeon she was in. A little bit more pleasant than where she was last time. She sits up and immediately she feels it.

She's mortal again.

No longer invincible.

No longer constantly thirsty for blood.

And she doesn't know how to feel about it.

"It takes awhile to get used to. During my early days I also sometimes missed a few things about being an immortal."

"Am I really that obvious A-fan?"

He stays where he is on the doorway. He has lived long enough to know that grief is expressed differently to many others and his sister is no different.

"Lihua, just because I don't find value in what interests you, does not mean I look down on you."

"Why are you telling me this now?"

"I've been a horrible brother to you."

Silence ensues as he now settles himself beside her bed. She keeps her head down as she takes the cup of water he gives.

"I didn't check up on you and disregarded the impact of my opinion on you."

"You left me when you are the last person - my last reminder of our mother before she died centuries before. Our father quickly moved on but neither of us did. And yet the moment the opportunity to leave arrived, you took it. Left me in the place wherein no matter what I did, no matter where I went to, it was never enough."

"What made tracking us and giving your niece to him any different?"

"...He said that if I did it will be my greatest achievement."

"...You are more than that."

"Easy for you to say. The bright star among the spawn of our father."

Her sarcastic tone was like a stab to him. He was used to it, but it didn't mean that it hurt any less.

"You don't need his or my opinion on what your achievements are. You are smart enough on your own to know them."

He stands up and make his way out.

"This may be obvious, but now that you are mortal spend the rest of your mortal life on what you actually want to do."

"And what if that means still pursuing her?"

"Then you shall suffer the consequences. Simple as that. But do you really want to spend your remaining mortal days simply chasing after her?"

"..."

"That's what I thought."

______________________________________________________________

The day was bright, and outside of their cottage just after her calligraphy and philosophy lessons with Hua Cheng and Xie Lian, Meng Ai eagerly searched for her hiding spot. She wanted to climb the trees but the bamboo stick that her Baba Lian would use to practice his forms, might probably be broken or hinder her climb. And she didn't want to get wounded again so soon.

They were playing hide and seek. But to make things more interesting if she could defend herself or do something to evade their grasp then as long as they didn't catch her she could still hide.

"Go anywhere in Mt. Taicang. It's within the wards so don't limit yourself."

Baba Lang tells her cheekily before they start their game. He and Baba Lian equipped with their own bamboo sticks. E-ming and Ruoye will not be used in today's game much to their mutual disappointment.

"Behave you two, this is also training for her."

Baba Lian says appeasing the two sentient weapons. And so the sword and the silk band became markers for their starting point. Baba Lian begins counting as the seeker for this round.

She decides to hide in the bushes. And keep still, ease her breathing.

Meanwhile Xie Lian and Hua Cheng were watching her from afar.

"Should I give her a few more moments?"

"Hmph she could handle it."

"Maybe a little bit more San Lang. Now go back to hiding."

"What if I don't want to hide?"

Xie Lian chuckles as he pulls him down for a chaste kiss.

"Keep yourself hidden from her sight then."

Xie Lian makes his way to her and raised his stick with ease in quick defense.

"Good."

"Thank you Baba."

He let's her run before pursuing her chuckling.

Looking back from now it was as if time flew fast.

As she grew and under their guidance she was able to excel.

One opponent gradually became two.

Bamboo sticks became practice swords.

Practice swords were supplemented by Ruoye and Eming.

He shares a smile with Hua Cheng before they both move in. He commands Ruoye to put her in a blindfold.

She evaded by dodging and stabbing Ruoye with a stick.

Hua Cheng then made his move and made a crimson mist surrounding her. He enters the mist and she dodges his attack by a hair and quickly engages.

"Mind your feet - you wouldn't want to be late for your performance later."

"Oh stop it Baba!"

She advances and their practice swords dance for awhile before he disarms her and E-ming enters from her blind side. She ducks and quickly gets her twin Sais out. Hua Cheng attacks with a practice sword since E-ming refuses to be used to spar against her no matter how much Xie Lian and Meng Ai ask. A compromise was that E-ming will be limited to distractions while Hua Cheng uses a practice sword.

She finds herself crossing her Tie Chis stopping Hua Cheng's sword from hitting.

"I think she should mind her fingers not her feet."

"Baba Lang you just don't want to see me dance with anyone!"

Hua Cheng smirks.

"You don't need to dance with anyone just to enjoy dancing."

"Really? Is that why for the past few years I've never had any suitors ask for me?"

"You're acting as if your life is over at sixteen."

She pushes against him and quickly evades an incoming attack from Xie Lian. Simultaneously she blocks Hua Cheng's attack, then twisting to the side and clashed with Xie Lian's sword. One Tie Chi was disarmed and she quickly thrusted her other Tie Chi which was quickly dodged by Xie Lian.

"Can you blame me?"

"Focus Xiao Ai. Don't worry you have time."

"Says my Baba who ascended at seventeen."

"The key is timing."

She twists then jumps to the side. She jumps from the swing of Hua Cheng's sword and evades him.

But she twists right into Xie Lian's arms as he held his practice sword against her neck.

"See, do you yield?"

"...Yes Baba. Happy Anniversary to you and Baba Lang."

They both chuckles as she lets out a whine, the Crimson mist disappears and Xie Lian lets her go. He removes the stick that pinned Ruoye in place and E-ming goes back in it's sheath by Hua Cheng's waist. Hua Cheng bends down and hands Meng Ai back her disarmed Tie Chi. The family of three make their way down Mt. Taicang.

"Thank you, Xiao Ai you don't need to stay for the entire celebration. Whatever you have composed on the Guzheng we'll love it."

"If you want I could make them cheer for you no matter what happens."

It was her turn to laugh.

"Baba Lang what would be the point of that? If they don't like it then I'll study why. But I can't do that if it's not a genuine reaction."

"And just who would dare critique your work?"

"Li Shuyue my music teacher, Mama, General Xuan Zhen -"

"Just say the word -"

"Baba!" "San Lang."

"Just teasing."

They reach the bottom and Hua Cheng throws his dice in the air and a door opens transporting them to Paradise Manor.

"Qing Jinjing! You need to get dressed." Li Shuyue says as she clacks her tongue disapprovingly.

"Shuyue-laoshi, you can still call me Meng Ai."

"You chose Qing Jinjing as your courtesy name and in a few moments you will be publicly performing. Unless we are in our lessons I'll be using your courtesy name. Now go wash up and get changed."

"Yes Shuyue-Laoshi, I'll see you later Babas!"

AN:

Sixteen year old Meng Ai/Qing Jinjing finally arrives! There may be some flashbacks to kiddie/pre-pubescent Meng Ai. I think this is my most random assortment chapter to try to makeup for the more late updates. And also I was trying to think of a way to transition from kiddie Meng Ai to teenage Meng Ai who was whining in my head how it seems that she will have to wait forever before making an appearance and so this is me appeasing her.

I made Guzi have his 14th birthday since I realized that since he was already quite young in their wedding (which is more or less when the canon story takes place) and I realized I accidentally placed "Little boy" when I intended to place "Young boy" since he is in his teens now. I'll probably fix it once I finish the story in it's entirety. Having him at around 7 years of age when he attends the Hualian wedding on the 1st Chapter I think is a good compromise on his canon age of being 10 and him having a growth spurt at that age.

Cun is an ancient Chinese measurement and is more or less about 1.3 inches or 3 and 1/3 cms.

Ancient china had a ten day week before adopting the seven week based on the Gregorian Calendar.

I'm basing their appearances from the donghua since that was my main obsession with tgcf/heaven official's blessing.

As confirmed in the footnote number 8 of Book 1 in Chapter 9: Dallying Hualian - the main language spoken by most of the characters is the Han language which is the dominant language of China.

Chen - To spread, Bingxue - Ice and Snow

Xiang - Towards, Li - Beautiful or graceful

Laoshi - Teacher. This is what my college mandarin teacher told us to address him as (I'm sorry Laoshi but I have already forgotten a lot of what you've taught us.). I used it just to be safe because "Shifu" seems to be more specific to martial arts in the Wanxia/Xianxia setting.

Qing - Blue/Green/Black (In this context it means Blue), JĪn - Gold/Money/Metal (In this context it means Gold), JĪng - clear/crystal. Jinjing (On its own) - Golden bell/Bright and Shining/Sparkling spirit. Altogether I was trying to make a name which means "Sparkling Lapis Lazuli" or "Bright Lapis Lazuli" since Qingjinshi is the mandarin term for Lapis Lazuli.

While canonically it's never mentioned when Hualian got married, based on the last chapter of the main story and their reunion in the Shanyue festival, my headcanon is that they got married shortly after. Within the same week if not within the same month that the Shanyue festival seems to fall into. Since they first met in the Shanyue festival, and their reunion was in the Shanyue festival I think they would want to also have their wedding close to it because of what it signifies to both of them.

EDIT: (I forgot to add this)

I know that the Sais are a Japanese weapon, but I also recall reading somewhere that Ancient China had a similar weapon. I'll edit this chapter later when I find the Mandarin term for it (I was more focused on the story part)

EDIT 2:

I finally found the term it's Tie Chi (铁尺) or "Iron Ruler". If you are reading this after my edits this is a similar weapon to the Japanese Sai wherein it is a weapon that is made for defense and disabling weapons and not made for killing.

Source:

https://swordis.com/blog/chinese-weapons/

As confirmed by wikipedia:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sai_(weapon)

Don't worry she will have a Duan cha in the next chapter. But the Tie Chi is more practical for her since it doesn't have the three pronged style and is still mainly a defensive weapon.

[queenofapeacefuldawn]

Never Stop Loving You

—

a/n: my. midterms are in a week and here i am. i hate myself. enjoy.

—

A person’s teenage years are possibly the most awkward phase in their lives. With the onset of puberty comes the looming existential crisis of ‘who’ you’re supposed to be, and ‘what’ you’re supposed to do. It’s probably worse when a person’s the prince of a kingdom, or a celebrity demigod throughout the Otherworld. 

Since his birth, there had been goals and expectations placed on his shoulders: how he should act, how he should speak, what he should, how he should walk— heck, there had been one very awkward conversation about who he would marry. He shut it down as quickly as it had been brought up (he'd found the conversation hopelessly awkward, as he'd been twelve years old.)

When he and his family had found out about his color blindness, he felt those expectations fall from his shoulders, the ideal of 'him' that his parents— his grandfather had created, fell and shattered to the floor like a clay statue. 

For a moment, it had been freeing. His shoulders no longer ached under the weight of carrying the expectations placed upon him, but as time went on, the freedom he'd seen slowly warped and turned into shackles that bound his hands, and constricted his breathing. 

Every soft whisper, every look of disdain, of disappointed glance sent his way tightened a noose around his throat, made breathing a little harder. 

I'm not perfect. 

His grandfather's words haunted him. 

Idiot. 

He worked harder, tried to become smarter.

Useless. 

He developed a new type of magic, one that he could use—

Disgrace. 

They'd come to wear him down. The phantom living in his head echoed Takshaka's words day in and day out, dogging his footsteps, making him question his every move. 

The tides turned when he met the Potatoes. He was revered as a savior of Naga-Loka, the Otherworld, the remarks about his colorblindness lessened, and while he should've been happy, a doubt grew in his head: if I don't keep this up, then will they still love me? 

—

The bar was in the basement of a building, and he jogged under there, the faint sounds of water dripping fading as his ears were crowded with the shouts of the other patrons of the bar. 

Rudy pushed the door open, his eyes catching sight of a couple of students from Mini's school, all of them looking anxious. 

Mini, herself, was knocked out, her head resting in her hands, her face flushed, scattered shot glasses on the table, her glasses crooked. 

He let out a long breath, and turned a glare towards her classmates— he only knew them vaguely from her study groups. 

"Whose idea was… this?" He gestured toward the messy table. 

“It… we were all stressed. She was the most worried of us all. So we encouraged her to loosen up—”

“She's— you all have an exam tomorrow! None of you will be able to write it in this state!”

He felt the beginnings of a headache throb at the bridge of his nose.

“Just take her home.” Another classmate— Jessica, was her name?— said, leaning against the guy next to her. 

“I know,” he muttered, and tapped Mini on the cheek. 

“Hey. Wake up.” 

She stirred, slightly, her eyes glassy. “Who is it?”

“Me? Rudy, your boyfriend?”

“Oh,” she got up, and just as her legs gave way, he caught her, draping one of her arms around his shoulder. 

“Bye,” he heard one of her classmates mutter, as he carried Mini out of the bar. 

—

As it turned out, Mini was too exhausted to walk, so he carried her piggy-back style, her hands looped around his neck, her chin resting on his shoulder, her presence like a comforting warmth. 

He heard her soft breathing, and heard her grunt softly as she woke. 

“You up?”

“Where am I?” She groaned, her hands tensing. 

“With me,” he said, glancing slightly backward. 

“My head feels like it's gonna explode,” she grumbled. Her voice was off-kilter, which meant that she wasn't entirely sober— or awake— yet.

“How much did you drink?” He asked, and he heard her groan. 

“No, no, no… what time is it?”

“Around 1.30-ish. Why?”

He felt her rest her head against his shoulder. “I'm so screwed. My exam is at 11. I'm hungover. It's nearly 2. I’m so fucked,” 

He whistled, his voice low. “Just don’t panic, yet. Can’t you take— like a retest, or something?” 

“I can, but it severely lowers my chances of being selected for the best courses and—”

Her voice went up, as he instructed, “Breathe,”

She took a deep breath, as he felt his arms sore out. 

He led her to a bench, where they both sat, the street lights flickering down on them.

She leaned her head against his shoulder, threading her fingers together. 

“Hey,” he said, softly. “What would happen if you didn’t take the exam tomorrow?” 

He saw creases appear in the edges of her eyes. “I— I don’t know. It— it won't be good," 

Her voice went up at the end, as if in fear. 

He threaded her fingers through his, feeling the solid warmth and weight of her hand in his. The familiarity of it. Like how they fell into a tandem. 

She spoke, he listened. He spoke, she listened. They asked each other questions. Those little affirmations of affection, not unlike a kiss to the cheek. 

Affection… a distant voice echoed in his mind. Not just affection. Something more.

She stared at their hands, clasped, as he said, "Why won't it be good?" 

“My entire life… has been planned out. By my parents. By my teachers. If I don't pass tomorrow, get the top grades, then that plan… will go awry. I won't know what to do,”

“Maybe it's good for a plan to go awry. Maybe the plan was flawed, and needed to be fixed.” 

“Maybe I'm the one ruining it,” her voice was still stilted, but he sensed something behind her words: anger, but at whom? Herself? 

"Letting loose once in a while doesn't make you a bad person," he offered. "So you don't need to feel guilty about that," 

“It's not the guilt,” she muttered. Then paused. “Maybe it is about guilt. I dunno. But if I don't pass this exam tomorrow… if I don't do what I'm supposed to, then what am I? Who am I?”

“You’ll figure it out along the way,” he offered. 

She flexed her fingers, gently leaning against him. “What if I don’t? What if I never figure out what I’m supposed to do— and I end up a failure?” 

“Then I’ll still be with you, every step of the way.” 

He saw a small smile touch the edges of her lips, as he continued, “My life was planned out, too. Crown prince. Raised to ascend to the throne. I liked it. Or, at least, I thought I liked it. The security of what was next— of what to do next, of knowing that.” 

“And then?” 

“I began failing. The tests at school were especially bad. My parents were furious. The prince of Naga-Loka falling behind in his classes? Unimaginable. After a while… they just sorta gave up on me?” 

He saw his fingers involuntarily curl, and he felt his shoulders slump. 

“But my grandfather was so bitter,” he continued, as if in a trance, the words leaving him. He glanced sideways, to see Mini sitting up, her spine straight, her gaze kind, but razor-sharp. 

She was listening. 

“Before I make this about me— and I’m pretty sure I already have, but… basically, I made my own kind of magic, made my own way— and I found you guys. And that was the best thing that happened to me.” 

He heard her laugh. “You sap,” she giggled, covering her mouth with her hand. 

“Well, it’s true—” he began to protest, but then continued, “Stop laughing!”

“No,” she said, before, “I’m kind of hurt that I’m not the best thing that ever happened to you,” 

He knew by the airiness of her tone that it was a joke, and while she said, “If your goal was to make me laugh, then you succeeded,” his mind was whirling. 

She listens. She doesn’t judge me—

Not just affection. Not just a crush—

“But you are.” He spoke the words without a second thought. 

He saw another smile pull at the corner of her mouth, and she continued, “Okay, I can’t laugh anymore, I’ll seriously puke—”

He took her hands in his. 

“You are,” He repeated, his mouth going dry, as he saw her eyes widen. 

He wasn’t thinking, now, and he continued: “Mini, I— I think I love you.” 

He heard her breath catch. 

“Actually, I don’t think so— I do. I know I do.” 

He knew it was true— and he definitely hoped that she felt the same way. A pit opened up in his stomach, as he felt bile rise in his throat. 

“Um—” 

“I love you too,” 

She said the words very softly, something for only the both of them to hear. 

“You— you do?” 

She looked up at him, her cheeks flushed, her smile wide and dazzling. “Yes, Rudy. I do.” 

Wordlessly, she pulled him into a kiss, her fingers brushing against his cheekbone, his cheeks filling with heat, his heart hammering in his chest. 

Somehow, she made him fall for her all over again. 

I love you. And… I’ll never stop loving you.

—

a/n: my brain is unraveling like spaghetti 👍

[boysplanetrecaps]

Build Up Episode 8 Recap: Episode 8 conclusion

Hello! It’s time for to finish recapping MNET’s Build Up, episode 8! In the previous one, we saw a team of balladeers sing a pleasant ballad. Now it’s time to find out who won the night, and who will have to pack their knives and go. Let’s do it! 

So, we learn that the ultimate ranking for the night will be determined by the judges, the onsite, and the internet based views. Dahee announces that it’s time for the audience to vote. 

The guys are nervous while the audience votes. The judges wonder what the audience voted.

Now time has passed and the audience seems to have left. Dahee announces the top 2 teams -- it’s DongupJarur / Partners....

and Milky Up

Backstage, the members of Waterfire just sit in silence

while the sounds of their neighbors in other Small Rooms are going nuts celebrating. 

Bitsaeon feels defeated and Minseo is deeply anxious, but Jay is cool as a cucumber. 

Hey, stick with me, kid. Ride the Jay-coaster and we'll ride back up to safety. It's going to be ok. I'm Jay, if you didn't notice. -- Jay, probably

He knows how audience votes work. 

And then, AND THEN, AND FUCKING THEN, THE FUCKING JUDGES SAY 

…that the battle between Milky Up and Partners is “atmosphere versus skill.” They’re openly admitting that Partners is skilled while all Milky Up had is atmosphere. I can’t. I can’t. 

The scores are revealed.

Milky Up has taken first place, despite being voted Low Tier at the midterms!

Haram falls to his knees. His legs just give out from under him.

Jeup, who is classy as well as a genius, smiles genuinely and applauds.

He also pats his teammates on the back and says “good job, good job.” 

We find out that Milky Up ranked first in both the judges’ and the on-site evaluators scores, and Partners came in second in both as well.

Seohyung thanks his team, and Donghun says they finished the performance without any regrets. 

Then something awful happens and Baekho is like “I have something to say” and he calls Bain out for not having abs. 

Ugh. I know in Korean culture this kind of thing is allowed but also Korea has the highest su!cide rate in the developed world so…. IDK, maybe rethink it? A little? 

The judges basically imply that maybe if Bain had also had abs the team would have won and I hate it, I hate it so much, I hate it so so so much.

On a brighter note, team Uptown Funk is super happy and it’s cute.

The guys in Partners are like, “aww, let the babies enjoy the moment.” Not in a mean way, though.

The other three teams come up on stage to find out who is going to be eliminated.

Judge Wendy voice overs: “I don’t feel well.”

Who will come in third? After a lot of wasting time and speculating, we find out that it’s Hunminjaybit, Jay’s team! 

The judges are shooketh. 

Solar is all, “jinjja?” Yeah, really, Solar, really. The audience saw the performance and liked it because it was good. You guys were, I don’t know, waiting for the second coming of Jesus or something. I don’t know what happened there. 

Jay is doing a little act of being astonished by the score. You knew the fans were going to come through for you, you goober. 

Either that or he really needs glasses. 

Jay’s team scored last in the judges ranking, but third in the evaluator’s score. (We are told the various points from various sources -- I’ll go through that at the end, never fear.) 

The fourth placed team is finally announced after lots of Vivaldi and speculation (and a commercial): It’s Waterfire who has survived, while Doremifa has been eliminated. 

Doremifa is like, welp. What’cha’gon’do.

Everyone else is sad. There are some talented singers in this group.

Junhyeok takes the mic and thanks everyone in general. He says he only regrets that this team could only perform together once. 

Yeo One seems cool with it. He is ready to go back to his solo career. 

We don’t get to hear from Waterfire at all and find out how they feel about surviving. Thanks, MNET! Themnet. 

We see a brief preview of next week’s episode and I’m already annoyed so that’s great. 

Ok, so let’s talk NUMBERS.

Here are all the points from this round. I got this from reddit and now I can’t find the post, so I apologize to the awesome Redditor I stole this from. Hopefully she’ll reply to the comment I left on her post so I can find it again! 

As you can see, the online voting score counted almost not at all. It was really just the one-site evaluation that really ended up mattering, since the difference between the highest and lowest judging score was only 30 points and the difference between the highest and second highest audience vote was more than twice that. But I do think it’s interesting that the online voting ranked Drowning so high. I wonder if it was actually kind of bad in person somehow? Like if they messed up in some way? Seunghun interviewed that the performance was “regrettable” in someway, so I do wonder about that. I didn’t notice any specific problems but maybe they’ve done better in rehearsal.

I was also curious about Youtube views. So, I checked the views on all three versions of all five performances, and then I did a bit of math. Well, my spreadsheet did a lot of the math for me. Check it out. 

The percents column is the percent of all views on all fifteen videos. Clearly, Drowning is way in the lead in terms of views, though it does trail slightly behind Guilty in the “full cam” version. As of now, March 23, Drowning’s three videos account for 36.18% of all the views of all fifteen videos. That’s more than a third. Guilty is solidly in second place, 27.71% of the views. The other three together have 36.10% of the views -- less than Drowning has all by itself. 

As for me, my ranking of the performances is:

Guilty

Guilty

Drowning

Uptown Funk

Drama

Gift

Is it weird that Gift came in sixth place when there were only five performances? Nope. 

Well, I may or may not write a rant about how much I love Guilty at some point, but the storm stopped and My Fella wants to watch X-Men ‘97 and eat popcorn, so I’ll see you in the next one! 

[knightyoomyoui]

Dahyun x F Reader - “Rewrite The Stars”

HAPPY 50K READS TO THIS BOOK AND BELATED HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY TO OUR JJANG DUBLANGDUNGIE BABY SUPERHERO, KIM DAHYUN! #HAPPYDAHYUNDAY2023💞🎈🎉

I know that I'm way too late on updating this, a week passed after her birthday and I'm really sorry for that. I've been really busy with all the school stuffs especially that I'm recovering from being drained on our midterms. WE'RE IN THE MONTH OF JUNE, BY THE WAY ... SO HAPPY PRIDE MONTH ALSO TO MY READERS AND EVERYONE WHO ARE PART OF LGBTQIA+ COMMUNITY!

And since this is released in Pride Month, expect that I blended the story to show my support and respect for gay people. I just really hope that my average English vocabulary and how sensitive the topic included in this story won't cause misunderstanding that might offend any members of the community who reads this. I swear I don't mean to hurt anybody's feelings, all I just want is to express my love and acceptance for you guys. Lastly, this doesn't portray Dahyun's parents in real life. I repeat, this is alternate universe FANFICTION. This has nothing to do to their true personality. TRIGGER WARNING: homophobia and discrimination

A cold, peaceful, starry night in the seaside area where the two lovebirds YN and Dahyun are currently strolling together as they let out the remaining time they had to just run out after spending their moment with some of the things they wanted to do.

Both sensing that their feet are slightly aching from the amount of time they've spent walking around the places they've gone through, YN led the initiation for them to take a space across the length of the stone barrier on the seaside.

They climbed while helping the much smaller Dahyun reach the layer. When they did, they sat aside from each other as the waves of the body of water were now present in front of them.

Inhaling the salty, fresh aroma of the breezy air, both felt the relaxation they'd needed for a short break, which was sent through their bodies to at least lessen their tiredness.

They were quiet for a moment until YN planned to bring them into a conversation to escape the silent and awkward atmosphere they may have constructed.

"How's that for a celebration?" YN asked, keeping her sight on the splashing waves of the Seoul sea with a smirk on her lips.

"The best one I had so far." Dahyun smiled largely, glancing at her lover's side profile. "Thank you for this, YN. I enjoyed it a lot with you."

"Glad that I did, you deserve it Dahyun-ah. You did really well earlier on your class." YN clapped her hands as she tilted her body to face her beautiful girlfriend. "Woah, it's still so awesome. Being the top scorer in the test. Congratulations again."

Dahyun giggled sheepishly and blushed. "Yah! I couldn't have done it if it wasn't for you, okay? Y-your... good luck message you sent me while I'm about to pass out from reviewing motivated me back up. So I give the credits to you, babe. That's for you too and my another way to express how grateful I am at you for being my supportive girlfriend."

Dahyun pursed herself to give a kiss on her cheek. Her face enlightened and heart bloomed at her love sign. "I'll do the same for you when you got one next time."

"Do as you wish, Dubu. I'll need that too since I've learned it's effective." YN playfully replied. Dahyun found it hilarious as she grinned.

The two went quiet again to resume their admiration for the sight they were watching together in front of their eyes. This allowed YN to recall this particular fact that popped into her mind and realize something interesting afterward.

"Dahyun."

"Hmm?"

"We're on the road to taking that first whole year, right?"

"Yeah. It would be our first anniversary too." Dahyun blushed at how special it would be for them to also celebrate once they arrived there successfully.

"We've been together for that long now... and I just think that what if..." YN paused to slow it down and not make it too sudden for Dahyun to understand easily.

She is now looking at her, as that halt in the middle of her words got her attention entirely. "What if it's time for us to let your parents know now about our relationship?"

Dahyun stared at YN after hearing that. It got her in a short recall that she and YN were already approved by YN's parents, who have willingly lent their blessings as a way to support the two lovers.

That was a few weeks ago. They were about to inform Dahyun's parents after, but Dahyun requested that they take more time to do it. YN understood that she wasn't ready as much as she is, but that didn't make YN interpret that she was ashamed to announce this to her parents.

All YN knows is that Dahyun is nervous, and she gets it because this is both their first time being in a relationship together. They have to take things slow.

"I mean... yes, I know that last time you said that we should give it a time for now but I'm not rushing you, okay? I just have this idea that what if we have our own parents have the knowledge about us before we reach our first year together." YN explained her suggestion calmly.

Dahyun looked away and nodded, taking her girlfriend's side understandably. "I do get it, and I agree with you."

YN's curves in her lips formed at that response. not until it stopped when Dahyun followed up on her words.

"But I don't know why. I'm still nervous, YN."

That same exact reason is what YN got again for the second time. She respects it and wants to accept it truly, but couldn't there be a much wider story behind it to make it even more... concise?

"Then tell me, Dahyun-nie." YN glanced at Dahyun, lowering her head down. "I'm always here, ready to listen to what bothers you. You know that I stayed to be your company too, right?"

Dahyun nodded.

"Let me know. What makes you nervous about revealing our status to them, Dahyun? We can use it to prepare ourselves more."

She reached for Dahyun's hands clasped together and held them in her touch to ease the lady's feelings. It helped Dahyun, and it permitted her to breathe lightly before answering your concerns.

"It's just... m-my parents. My family."

"What's with them?"

"I grew up on a highly religious family, YN and this... w-what we have here... I'm scared that they won't let it pass through."

YN went speechless. Hearing Dahyun's fears, it struck her to the complete clarity that she was involved to many church services with a purpose. That's because their family was a lifelong servant of God, passed and influenced through their generations, to become a believer and follower of all the gospel of the Lord.

And it seems that she and Dahyun's relationship doesn't include to one of the beliefs that were applied to their bloodline.

"S-so you're nervous because... you're thinking that they won't accept us for what we are?"

Dahyun nodded, her sadness and embarrassment growing inside of her. "I-I'm sorry. I didn't mean to offend you or anything, YN. I just want you to understand. I want to say again that I may be nervous... but I'm not afraid of introducing you to them."

You were noticing some little sniffs and shivers on Dahyun; indicating that she's dealing now with her emotions attacking her. Being a considerate and carefree girlfriend like you always do for Dahyun, you pulled her towards you and wrapped her in a warm cuddle.

"I know. Don't overexplain too much, I'm not angry. Do you know why I couldn't take your words as a lie to me?"

You began caressing her back and stroking her long dark hair from behind to add the soothing effects of your comfort.

"It's because you still decided to come after me despite knowing the consequences it will bring when it comes to your religion. That's enough for me to become grateful and appreciative of you, Dahyun... that you still chose to love me even though they say it's wrong."

"I love you too much, YN. I couldn't resist it. My heart just wants you." Dahyun buried her face deeper in to your arms.

"I love you too... always, Dahyun." YN smiled and kissed the top of her head. "We'll get through this. I'll accompany you. I'll be there on your side and whatever happens, we'll face it together."

Dahyun lifted herself to replace her head to lay it down on YN's shoulder and circle her arms around her waist.

YN pressed the side of her head against Dahyun's as the two proceeded to view the captivating nightsky beyond the sea without any more traces of worry about the obstacle they had to encounter soon.

- 2 DAYS LATER -

A not-so-tiring and stressful class schedule has just finished as usual. Dahyun is riding with YN on her motorcycle, holding onto her body like her life depends on it. Probably due to her not being too used to it as a medium of transportation.

They are on their way to Dahyun's address, with Dahyun instructing all the directions on where they'll take and the turn that will lead them to her house.

Their main agenda begins today. Dahyun will finally introduce YN to her parents, as per what they talked to each other days ago.

"There, the third house on the right. The one with the second level had lights on." Dahyun gave her final instruction after they crossed another street.

YN listened, slowing the speed of her motorcycle using the brake. It stopped just in front of Dahyun's residence.

They hopped out together on the seat. YN escorted her to take off the helmet on Dahyun's head and fix her hair.

Knowing what would happen tonight, they viewed the exterior of the house, where the two people they had in mind to confront with regards to their plan are just right there inside; unknown to what they're about to encounter.

"This is it, huh?" YN sighed and licked her lips. "You good, babe?"

"Yeah. We're already here. There's no turning back now. I just hope my expectations come true." Dahyun rubbed her forearm and stared at the gate in melancholy.

YN reached for her girlfriend and side-hugged her to show good luck and comfort. "They will. We must have to."

She looked at the doorbell displayed beside the gate. Turning her head, she looked at Dahyun to ponder a question. "You ready?"

Dahyun only nods. YN kissed her on the forehead one more time before she let Dahyun nervously press the button, sending an alarm to the inside of the house.

Opening the gate, she entered first, bringing YN with her as they locked hands from behind.

The door opened after they gathered the attention of the people inside the house. As it swung in full swing, Dahyun and YN saw a middle-aged lady with proper home attire standing in front of them.

"Hello, mom." Dahyun acknowledged the presence of her own beloved mother personally.

Mrs. Kim smiled sweetly at her only daughter and accepted Dahyun's willing hug. "Good evening, my little tofu. How's school?"

"Just an ordinary school day, as usual, Mom," Dahyun answered. Mrs. Kim nodded.

Behind her, a space was taken when her husband and Dahyun's own father, Mr. Kim stood behind his wife and hooked his arm around her. "Dad." "You came home safe," Mr. Kim commented as he hugged her daughter back. He lets go, just for him to notice that his wife was squinting her eyes, observing the young stranger standing with their daughter. "It seems that you brought a guest with us tonight." Mr. Kim reacted. "Who is this, Dubu?" Mrs. Kim pointed at YN. The two looked at each other, and YN gestured discreetly to Dahyun that it would be alright. "Uhm, good evening to both of you, Mr. and Mrs. Kim. The n-name's YN, I'm Dahyun's classmate in our university." YN bowed respectfully in front of the two.

Dahyun and YN looked at each other to compose theirselves. Giving theirselves a trustworthy nod, their hands slowly intertwined with one another.

Returning their gazes back at the married couple and wonderful parents of such a lovely, down to earth woman, the person who personifies those attributions courageously monitored the pair.

"And mom... dad, I would like you to meet YN here as something more."

"Mr. and Mrs. Kim, your daughter and I are in a relationship." YN proudly spills out her announcement to the parents. "Dahyun here is my girlfriend."

Their faces fell off into a mixture of seriousness and confusion. Furrowing her eyebrows, Mrs. Kim asked YN. "What did you just said?"

YN and Dahyun looked at each other, the concerned and frightened sight of Dahyun's face on what she's spotting to her parent's reaction is what makes YN's nervousness and worries increase.

"Did we hear it that clearly? Y-you two... are" Mr. Kin who is sporting that befuddled expression, inquired about the information they just learned.

"Yes, Dad. YN is my girlfriend. We've been together for 8 months and counting-"

"Dahyun. What is this?" Mrs. Kim interrupted her daughter to express her cluelessness about what is going on between them. "You're saying that she's not just your classmate nor a friend... but what? A girlfriend?" She said, with a glimpse of weirdness in her tone.

That's it. YN and Dahyun's hearts fell at that one particular obvious note that doesn't require any long or precise definition to do so. They got the answer to what they sought.

"Are you serious right now, Dahyun?" Mr. Kim mentioned her daughter without her nickname, another one for Dahyun to clearly tell that they are in a serious mode. "You're telling us, right here. On my property. In front of us, your parents who raised you what wanted you to become just to show us the opposite as what? That you're gay?"

"And what if she's gay, Mr. Kim? Does that off-"

"Silence, kid." Mr. Kim warned YN, daringly pointing his fingers at the defensive girlfriend. "Don't you dare speak to your elders without permission."

"Especially that you don't know us well. How disrespectful of you." Mrs. Kim scolded the young woman. "And what were you trying to say? That having our daughter to reveal that she's gay offends us? YES! It's not just like that. It's blasphemy! A shame to our family!"

"Dahyun, when did we ever tell you to be like this? This isn't how we teach you to grow up in the future." Mr. Kim asked Dahyun who is now bowing her head down in embarrassment and guilt.

"I-I'm sorry. Mom, Dad. I just wanted you two to know and understand that I love YN so much."

"And we want you to know that it's not right for both genders. To be exact, two women to engage in a romantic relationship or simply, to love each other. You know the words and so do we, Dahyun. That's what it says on the church and in the bible!"

"And yet, you brought her here, and for what? To say in our faces that you two are girlfriends, while knowing that it's against our beliefs?!" Mr. Kim grunted in frustration. "Aren't you both even ashamed of yourselves?!"

Dahyun is now crying beside YN, who quickly noticed the poor state of her partner as she consumed all the hatred they've got for their own undeserving actions. YN looks at Mr. and Mrs. Kim with poor and pleading eyes.

"Please, stop. We didn't mean to cause any disrespect or offense to both of you. We're simply loving each other and I am here with your daughter, desperately telling you two that we all just wanted both of your blessings for our relationship as we want our sides to support what we have for each other." YN persuades her partner's parents, who actually turned out to be one of the existing homophobes, while she eases the wailing Dahyun.

"It's too bad that we aren't alike on what we believe in when it comes to love. For me, we shouldn't dictate or choose for others on what we should love. Love is not just for men and women only and certainly, if that somebody makes you discover what is love, then you might as well go for it without anybody restricting you." YN said as she stood in her position to defend her and Dahyun as much as she could.

"Enough!" Mr. Kim stomped his foot aggressively on the floor, scaring Dahyun and intimidating YN in the process. "You don't lecture us as if you know better than we are. Twist it whatever you want, being gay is a sin to the heavens and to the gods above. You two are clearly disobeying the wise gospel of the Bible and as a father , I would not let that forgiven for what my daughter has done."

"I'm so disappointed, especially to you Dahyun. After all we've done to ensure that you'll live in a good, normal life, this is what you'll repay us?" Mrs. Kim shook her head disapprovingly.

"Go inside. Now. We'll deal with this privately."

YN looked at Dahyun concerningly. The latter nodded and tried her best to assure her lover that she will handle it.

"I'm sorry." Dahyun muttered before letting go from YN's grasp.

"You shouldn't be. Go on. Just remember that we're not done with this." She said as she wipes one more teardrop away from Dahyun's devastated demeanor.

"What are you whispering to my daughter? Leave, now! And don't you step here on our property ever again. Or better, stay away from my daughter." Mrs. Kim harshly gestures for YN to disappear.

"Don't make us be the ones to separate you two from each other. Stop this nonsense as soon as possible!" Mr. Kim offers a warning to YN before pulling Dahyun with them inside and slamming the door shut.

YN sighed heavily; her eyes became watery after enduring the pain and remaining calm and patient with all of their backlash against your identities.

She clutched her chest and stared at the door worriedly, wondering what Dahyun would go through with her parents' hurtful insults and lecturing.

"I'm sorry too, Dahyun. Just hold on tight, they'll accept us someday." She whispered to herself before she weakly returned to her motorcycle to go home after being rejected by Dahyun's unsupportive and discriminating parents due to the truth that you and Dahyun are in a lesbian relationship.

THE NEXT DAY

YN was sitting in one of the kiosks located on the far left of the engineering course building, awaiting the arrival of her girlfriend, whom she wanted to greet and check up on instantly after what happened to both of them last night.

Her eyes soon caught a trace of Dahyun entering the gate, with the security guard scanning her belongings first before she was given access to enter the grounds.

She abruptly moved her feet, intersecting in Dahyun's direction, and used herself to become the blockage on her path. Dahyun was taken aback at the sudden emergence of her girlfriend around her.

Both stood in their spots, and they shared the same sorrowful and pained look in their eyes when they looked at each other's faces.

"Dahyun." YN muttered her partner's name solemnly.

Without any further ado, Dahyun came towards YN and crushed themselves in a hug. YN felt the vibrations in her skin, created by the muffled sounds of Dahyun's cries, burying her face on her upper chest.

"I'm sorry."

"What did I tell you yesterday? It was nothing, Dahyunnie. At least we tried, right? And we were aware of them doing that to us. Don't take all the blame here," YN said, lowering her voice.

"Are you okay? Did they do something bad to you?"

"No. Even if they do, what they all said about you still hurts worse."

YN winced and twitched her lips in her words that struck directly in her heart.

"I couldn't think straight, YN. I didn't even get a proper sleep from having you on my mind while I'm being distracted by all these rude and cruel words they spat on you," Dahyun said, squeezing your arm. "I'm still in disbelief that they had that side, and I couldn't be more frustrated about it. They didn't care for your feelings, YN!"

"Yes, I do admit that it hurts a lot, but I have to be strong for us, Dahyun. I give you my word that I will do everything for us to retort them into the appropriate attitude they must have. I won't give up on us, okay?"

Dahyun hummed in response, signaling a similar desire as yours.

"Save your tears up and don't be sad now, babe, we still have a day to complete." YN kissed Dahyun on the cheek, which won her a slight smile of positivity in return for being relieved at least.

Days have passed, and they used them to recover and move on from their first attempt at convincing Dahyun's parents to accept their identity and their so-called forbidden relationship.

They still meet up outside, away from the vision and lack of knowledge by Dahyun's parents that their daughter couldn't stop herself from being attached to the only person she prefers to enjoy all these moments while storing this flaming love, almost making her think that nobody could ever do the same to her other than YN.

Same as what could be told to YN, she only wants and needs Dahyun in her life, no matter how many objections and judgments are thrown at them; she will never let her guard loose to express the love that fuels her whenever she has Dahyun with her.

Both are determined in their unconditional love; it looks like the opposing side has to do anything worse from time to time until they succeed in yielding either of them to their ridiculous principles.

One day, both Dahyun's parents hit the bullseye when they greeted their daughter, who had just gone home on a fake excuse.

Dahyun had to stay in the stairs and pause her steps as her eyes widened when her mother unveiled some news to her that easily had her irritated and surprised at the same time.

"You thought you would just sneak up to us thinking we wouldn't knew about this, don't you?" Mrs. Kim said as she presented a polaroid featuring a captured photo of Dahyun and YN hanging out on an arcade.

"M-mom?! What is this? Are you spying on us?!"

"We had someone to do it for us." Mr. Kim followed. Dahyun's dumbfounded look switched to him. "Haven't we told you enough that you should stop this joke between you and that disgusting gay associate of yours?!"

"Don't call her that! She's much better type of person that y-"

Dahyun didn't had to finish her words when she met an unexpected slap on behalf of her mother who didn't allow her daughter's over the limit outburst to her husband.

Stunned by the attack, Dahyun's terrified eyes wandered to the figure of her parents, who stared at her with smug faces. Probably, they are even thinking that Dahyun deserved the karma they perceive it to be.

"I've had enough of this nonsense and disrespect, Kim Dahyun! Listen to me, from now on. I dare you, if you ever set yourself close with that girl and continue to be stubborn. You don't have a home to stay anymore," Mrs. Kim said, furiously warning her daughter, who is now in shambles.

"Break up with her... or we will take everything we gave from you. That gay companion of yours... or your own parents. Make your choice before we do it ourselves."

Dahyun ran upstairs as she couldn't bear the heavy upset housing inside of her from her parents' unsupportive and rebellious policies for her wellbeing.

She slumped down on her bed before throwing all the pillows away from her room as a method of releasing her anger.

Dahyun stared at the ceiling while replaying all the words that her mother told her, especially the choice she had to make.

She loves YN ofcourse, but she does loves what she also have in her life aside from her too.

A proper education, balanced allowance, cozy house, a personal room.

She has what most of the youngsters like her to dream and wish on just to make theirselves or found out that they're are indeed in a good life.

Although her parents are now showing their new side that Dahyun is completely against with, that won't change the fact that they are her parents, the provider, the one who introduced her to this world.

Without them, she will never be standing where she is right now.

Now in the midst of turmoil, it was all come down to this two choices.

Deeply thinking about what would be her decision, Dahyun couldn't help but to be extremely stressed and agitated that she must have to face this instead of just simply being accepted not just by who she really is, but also to her relationship with YN.

Meanwhile, the married Kim couple watched as their daughter infuriately made her way to her room. Mr. Kim who became speechless from the slap given by his wife, cleared his throat and cupped Mrs. Kim's shoulder.

"Hon, you shouldn't have done that. Wasn't that a bit too far?" The father suppressed a slight concern for her daughter's emotional state.

Mrs. Kim shook her head and sighed. "No. That's just right. She must be disciplined. Our kid is growing up to be a troublesome."

She went back to the kitchen to prepare their dinner for tonight, leaving Mr. Kim to mentally contemplate her wife's actions.

THE NEXT DAY

In one of the tables placed inside a fancy restaurant, YN was there on her own reserved one, sitting and waiting patiently as she observed all the people minding their business to keep herself pleased and distracted by the time at least.

After many minutes of waiting, Dahyun has entered the restaurant and roamed her eyes around to find her girlfriend. She saw a hand raising and got it.

"Hi babe." YN stood up and kissed Dahyun on the cheek to welcome her beloved partner. She looks beautiful in her pearly white dress, which matches her flawless skin.

"Hi," she timidly replied, and she took the seat pulled by YN with an act of gentleness.

YN quickly sat and fixed her posture to prepare herself for yet another wonderful moment she'll be having to share with her girlfriend.

She wanted this to be a surprise date for Dahyun, which is why she picked this place for them.

"How are you doing, babe?" YN smiled while asking that. She couldn't contain the joy forming inside her.

"Fine."

That was very... short and cold coming from her. It helped YN to snap out of being indulged at this precious time when she's having to identify that there's something wrong with Dahyun.

"You sure?"

"Yeah." Dahyun gave another thrifty response. "Why did you want us to be here? I won't be staying for long anyway."

YN furrowed her brows; that was new from her. Something is now telling her differently, upsetting her anxiety. "Wait, Dahyun, are you really okay? What do you mean about that?"

Her lowered head, frowned lips, slumped shoulders. That's the usual things that YN recognize whenever Dahyun isn't feeling well.

And all of it are evident in front of him simulteanously. She's beginning to not liking what's going on.

"I'm just here to talk to you about something."

"I-I'm listening." YN slapped his lap. "Just tell me please, I'll be here to h-"

YN was reaching Dahyun's free hand resting on the table when the latter pulled back, disheartening the lover.

"There's no need."

"Dahyun. What's going on?"

Dahyun bit her lips before lifting her eyes to match your troubled gaze. She would be lying if she didn't tell you that those looks pierced her heart. She didn't want to do this, but she has to. and she just wants YN to understand.

"YN, I think we should break up."

YN's eyes widened, her senses ruptured temporarily, and the whole world around him turned upside down.

Only the sounds and movements of her crumbling heart being smashed by the words formed like a sledgehammer that she didn't expect to be heard of Dahyun saying it to her were noticeable.

"I'm sorry, but we had to. That's all my purpose of coming here. Goodbye." Dahyun stood up from his seat, alerting YN, who was about to be left alone in this place. They were supposed to share a wholesome moment together, arguably the best one they would have.

YN clutched her pocket, where a small box containing a very memorable item was stored inside.

She stood up from her seat, speeding her footsteps to chase Dahyun who is also increasing the pace of her walk, obviously wanting to escape her confusion.

"Dahyun!"

YN crossed the street, moving next to the sideway where Dahyun is now meters away from her.

"DAHYUN!"

She decided to run this time. Her agility became a necessity for her to catch up her girlfriend seemingly ignoring how painful she had just done to her lover.

"D-DAHYUN! DAHYUN! HEY!"

YN dodged all the bypassers, taking all the available spaces to use it as her never ending way to finally reach her girlfriend. She touched and grabbed Dahyun's arm, rotating her around to make her face you.

"Let me go, YN!"

"I will if you tell me what was that for!" YN and Dahyun were both being brought on by their overflowing disastrous emotions.

"What did you just say? Y-you want us to end all of this? All that sudden?"

Dahyun still tried to break from YN's hold as she avoids her look but her strength is giving up also to her decrease of composure.

"Look at me." YN cupped Dahyun's face. "What happened? What did they do to make you say that? Huh? I know you didn't do it volunta-"

"They just... h-helped me to realize something."

"Realize WHAT?!"

"That even if I stayed with you, I will still lose everything!" Dahyun screamed in return. YN was befuddled at Dahyun's reasons. She doesn't get what she's referring to. How can them being together would cost Dahyun whatever she has in her life currently?

Unless...

"Dahyun, no. Don't say that. They threatened you, I know it. I see it on you! You can't just fool me with that excuse, we both know that not the only time they tried to tear us apart!"

Dahyun bowed her head as pair of rivers were now visible on her face, staining her cheeks wet from the burden she's carrying placed by her parents through this situation.

"J-just let me go, YN. Please, I'm doing this for us."

"So you think that breaking up with me would solve everything?"

"YES! And you know that all too well, YN. We can't have this any longer, don't you see that these aren't leading us anywhere for the better? Why don't you try to wake up and that we're just hopeless after all?!"

YN scoffed, astounded by the words chosen by Dahyun. She just couldn't believe it that it's the same person she didn't mind at all that will display that kind of negativity who's letting out those unpleasant words he's hearing right now.

This Dahyun she's encountering was successfully blindsided and manipulated by the prejudice and homophobic beliefs of her religious parents.

It felt like she was defeated. She lost the battle. She wasn't able to save her Dahyun from all of these selfish views.

"So that's it?" YN's lips shuddered, and the first teardrop released in her eyes. "You don't love me anymore? What have they done to you? W-what happened to us, I-I thought we were going to solve this together?"

"Have you already given up, Dahyun? Because I haven't... and I would never. Am I the only one anymore who's still holding on for us? "

Dahyun disregarded the disguise she's wearing the entire time, unable to resist your distraught appearance making her feel incredibly guilty and saddened.

She cupped your face this time while holding your arm for support. Wiping the trail of wetness on your cheek, she glanced at you apologetically.

"It's not easy, YN. I didn't want to do it. Ofcourse, I would prefer you to stay with me or run away with you but I have no other choice, YN. This is a sacrifice I'm making here. I can't lose either you or my life."

"Your l-life? What does it have to do with this?" YN asked puzzledly.

"M-my parents... they'll scrap everything they gave to me if I remain linked to you. It's not that I'm siding with them, but please I want you to understand what I'm doing here, YN. I can't let them do something to you."

YN's breath hitched, heart pounding in pain as she learnt that.

"W-why are they doing this to us? Couldn't they just be happy for what we are?"

Dahyun nodded as she sobbed. Removing her hands from covering her mouth, she holds YN's hands and patted it.

"I'm really sorry. You know I want you too and it's not a secret I try to hide, but the more we progress... with all what's happening to us because of me, that's where I could point out that I couldn't have you."

YN looked at their stacked hands in agony. She removes her touch from Dahyun, only to pul out something in her pocket.

The small special box she's been hiding since she entered the restaurant.

Spreading her hands, she placed the box on the palm of Dahyun. "What's this?"

"Open it."

She did, revealing two shining necklaces with a design of two sparkling stars, earning a gasp from Dahyun.

"Today was supposed to be our date. A surprise one... including that." YN said as they both admired the glittering jewelry. "Consider it as my promise gift."

Dahyun looked at YN.

"At first, I want these to give it to you as it holds our promise that we will never separate no matter what happens. But here you are, claiming that it wasn't dictated in our story for us to have a happy ending, telling me that your fate is pulling you miles apart and out of reach from me."

YN spilled the necklace in her hands and took one of the necklaces and wore it around her neck. She looked at the pendant and picked it up.

Dahyun was awestruck at how perfect it looked on you.

"So, what if... we'll just rewrite the stars among us? Now, as long as I am wearing this while I have you in my heart, no one can stop from deciding that you're my destiny, Dahyun... and we are meant to find each other again."

YN removed the other necklace in the box before stuffing it back into her pocket, she wore it around Dahyun's neck; a smile plastered in her lips at how it fits exceptionally well on her.

"Wear it always for me, please." YN sent her last wish to Dahyun.

They kissed, lips brushing and tongues danced in rhythm to how they savored the pleasure.

After they kissed, Dahyun leaned her forehead to YN's, both were breathing heavily at the intensity of their exchange of intimacy.

Dahyun gulped her courage to say this, she swayed some hair behind YN's ear and stared intently on her captivating features one last time before they part ways.

"It just feels too impossible, YN. How can we say what we'll get to be if everything that surrounds us keeps us apart?"

YN lowered her head and cried harder at Dahyun's touch than earlier. "Don't you see that we're hopeless after all? As long as my hands are tied, we're bound to break and won't last longer like we want."

"I love you too, YN... but I would be very happy for you to try again with somebody out there who deserves you much as I do."

In an accurate timing to their mood, the clouds that were forming darkly above the skies finally dragged heavy rainfall to the entire area of Cheongsan.

YN was left there on her spot, standing alone in the middle of the rain as she had to watch the disappearing sight of Dahyun from the distance walking away from her.

Before they wouldn't be seeing one another for how long it would take them to reconcile and assumingly start all over again, YN took the opportunity to shout at the departing Dahyun about something.

"DAHYUN! Say whatever you want for me to move on, but I won't give up on us. I'll prove it to you someday! When I come back and we meet again, we will change the world to be ours!"

Dahyun who was about to remove the necklace wrapped around her neck, heard that loud, determined statement by YN. Thankfully, the ears falling down in her eyes were being washed away from being showered in rain; the impressed smile that formed weren't going to be ruined nonetheless.

6 YEARS LATER

Recently graduated with her degree and closing her college life to enter a new chapter in her life, Dahyun was offered to become a new professor in Science, Technology and Society subject by the head administrator; which she gratefully accepted, fulfilling her dreams of becoming a mentor and instructor to the future generation of students.

One of her classes scheduled for today in the morning was cancelled due to the unexpected news she received from the household that her father was sent to the hospital once again, complaining about the stomachache he's been enduring for weeks.

Fortunately, the higher campus facilitators allowed Dahyun to be excused to visit and guide her father, who is now confined in their neighborhood's nearest hospital.

It lasted for 3 days, her father was still getting treatments and operations to aid his illness, which was revealed to be a slightly worsened ulcer based on the check-up.

The nurses were informing them about the total amount of money they had to sped for the recovery of her father,  despite their average wealth status, Dahyun and mother couldn't avoid but to be shocked still at how expensive the costs were.

One day, Dahyun was about to pay the bills when the nurse told her something that is mind boggling.

"Maam, you're already paid."

"Wait, what?"

The nurse on the desk flipped her monitor to let Dahyun witness the evidence.

"But how did that happen? I-I didn't even came here few days ago?"

"Uhm, maam actually... there's someone who came here and told that the money should go to your record."

Dahyun scratched her nape and stroked the side of her hair. "There's somebody w-who paid all the e-expenses?"

"Yes, maam."

"Can I get whoever that person's name is?"

"I'm sorry, but that one requested for me not to reveal the identity." The nurse pouted and shook her head.

"A-alright. It's fine. Thank you for that."

Dahyun returned to her father's room in utter confusion. "Mom." She called her mother who is busy peeling off some fruits.

"Did you pay our hospital bills?"

"No? Why would I even instruct you to give the money to the-"

"Is it just you couldn't remember?" Dahyun lifted her one brow up.

"I swear, Dahyun. I didn't do it. What's with you ask that anyway?"

"Sorry, it's just... some nobody paid the bills for us."

"WHAT?" Dahyun's mother dropped the knif to the table and stood upright in astonishment. "That's a whole lot of money. Who would ever do that?!

"It looks like whoever did that must be so rich and kind." Dahyun muttered, looking at her mother and her resting father on the bed curiously as she roamed around the room wondering who could be responsible for this.

She literally wants to meet that person and show her huge appreciation and gratitude.

A week has passed, and her father is now regaining his energy after such a successful surgery to heal his damaged organ. The nurse was strolling Mr. Kim in a wheelchair outside of the hospital as they headed onto the car parked alongside the rest that belonged to the other visitors.

"We should go home now so you can take as much rest as you want, Dad." Dahyun said before hugging her father from behind, bending her body to reach the upper half of his body.

Unbeknownst to the relieved and happy family, someone is focused on watching them entertainingly from inside the hospital; not too far on the doors, just beside the reception area.

She was observing them well until it was interrupted by a personal manager calling her name for attention. She turned around, and the two conversed shortly.

"It was nice meeting you again, Dr. LN. If you wouldn't mind, I'd like to gain inspiration from how you conduct a presentation to the webinar. I'm still blown away with how you presented all the datas smoothly and precisely. It really looks like you are having a fun stay here."

"Thanks, Dr. Lee. It was a pleasure meeting you too. I am indeed enjoying my stay here knowing I could save and take care of many lives of patients as much as I can. And I don't mind, honestly. It would be a great honor actually."

The two professionals in the same field bowed with respect to each other before Dr. Lee and his assistant left.

As she was about to return her attention to where she's watching, her eyes widened, as if breaking a fourth wall had just occurred and shocked her plainly.

Dahyun was looking directly at her also as she froze in her spot.

She had been finally caught, so might as well surrender then.

The newly licensed psychiatrist Dr. YN LN walked out of the hospital, slowly narrowing her gap with Dahyun until they were inches apart.

The shot of their side profile staring at each other with a visible longing and delight in their faces.

YN smiled at Dahyun. "I told you, we'll meet each other again. There you are, you found me too."

"Y-YN..."

"Yeah. Long time no see, Dahyun."

Dahyun was flabbergasted as she traced the appearance of YN. She almost feels like she never recognize or met this person standing in front of her. "O-oh my god... y-you're here."

She noticed the garment coating around YN's body. "W-wait, you're a doctor?"

"Psychiatrist, to be exact... and I'm not actually based in this hospital. I'm on Busan, but some of us were gathered to be switched places for evaluation. Some of us might be transferred here officially if the results were impressive." YN clarified. "And oh, that reminded me... did you like my help?"

Dahyun remained silent for a while before her face expanded and her eyebrows floated when she understood what YN is referring to.

"T-that's you?!"

YN nodded. "Expensive, I know. But if you have a successful job that pays a damn high salary, it's no biggie."

"What about you? How did you go through all these years?"

"I'm became a professor in our alma mater."

YN hummed and nodded. "Oh wow. Great for you."

"Yeah."

The two grinned before Dahyun couldn't take it anymore, she enveloped YN into a tight embrace.

"I missed you so much, Dahyun."

"Me too. I admit I wasn't used not seeing you around in year not until you showed up today."

"I said that I'll come back for you, right?" YN stroked her hair from behind.

"And you did... I knew that you would be."

They separated from the hug. YN detected something that sent an immediate adrenaline rush of joy through her soul. "You kept it."

Dahyun held the golden star necklace laid in her chest. "I knew you would come back, so I waited for you. I heard what you shouted to me 6 years ago. Everyday I never went to search for anybody to love aside from you, because I still have you inside my heart just like you are."

YN's tears fell, as did Dahyun at how touched they were by their reunion. Everything is meant to happen, and their fate would always lead them back together how many turns and spins they took in this world.

Some people crossed paths to fall in love with each other, but not all of them were meant to last; yet YN and Dahyun are exempted for that matter. For them, it was all nothing but a full circle for their own story, which they've created altogether.

The door of the car opened, Mrs. Kim exits and interrupted the moment between her daughter and the person she used to hate and dislike for the sake of Dahyun.

"M-mom." Dahyun nervously said as she stepped back, her hand tightening around YN's as both felt fear at the sight of the person who highly objected to their relationship.

Mrs. Kim just ignored her daughter and stepped closer. The pair is now facing her, as she observes them carefully, squinting her eyes.

"You know...

... how dumb of me not to realize early that you two do look really great together."

YN and Dahyun was shocked at Mrs. Kim's comment.

The mother reached for YN's tender and stable hands, she looked at the woman she owned a lot of forgiveness for the harsh treatment she has done.

"So it's you who paid all of our my husband's hospital bills." Mrs. Kim said to YN. She was actually listening to the two's entire conversation earlier through the slightly lowered window.

"Y-yes, maam." YN shyly said.

"I would like to say that I truly appreciate your generous help, YN. Despite we didn't even asked for it, you did it... but, why?"

YN glanced at Mrs. Kim's confused look. "After what my husband and I had done for you, why did you still helped us?"

"I don't know." YN shook her head and shrugged. "One thing's for certain, I don't want Dahyun to get hurt by seeing her father suffering."

Mrs. Kim understood, confirming that this woman indeed cares a lot for her daughter, and she couldn't be happier more than that. "I'm sorry for everything we've said to you, YN. We exhibited homophobic views to both of you and Dahyun. My husband and I belittled you, despised you, discriminated you for not being straight as we thought we believed that it was better, but no. Instead, we became ignorant, biased and careless of how our words would affect your wellbeing as a part of the gay community."

YN couldn't contain the overflowing happiness inside of her as she cried while Mrs. Kim tries to comfort her by massaging her trembling hands. "M-Mrs... Kim..."

It was simply surreal of her to witness her lover's parents finally acknowledging and held accountable of their mistake. They had a moment of vulnerability, realizing that love should never be restricted from societal norms.

"We should've been more informative, understanding and educated about it. We chose to judge you just because of your sexuality. We realized that are committing more sinful deeds and it's a shame to our part. We're so sorry, YN. I don't beg for your forgiveness, but I hope you can tell that we are very sincere of saying this to you that we've been too occupied, blinded and misled with our religious beliefs and views, and we would really glad for you to give us a chance to change."

Mrs. Kim was about to kneel on the floor when YN forcefully pulled her back up. "N-no, no Mrs. Kim you don't need to do that!"

"I forgive you and Mr. Kim. That's enough for me to be contented and satisfied that you and him knows where you went wrong, and I hope this would be the start of us to set aside that in peace and let me-"

"Y-yes. We'll forget about that. From now on, you're now part of our family... and we want to invite you for us to get to know you more for our daughter here."

Mrs. Kim and YN hugged for the first time, making the doctor emotional. Dahyun was in awe. She was so surprised at this improved, positive and supportive her mother has turned to be as what she always wanted for a long time.

"Are you s-serious, mom?!"

Mrs. Kim nodded. "I give you two my blessings for your relationship. My dad would agree as well too, right hon?"

She gestured a thumbs up to her husband who is inside the car, sitting in the passengers seat watching them in the window with a proud smile. The latter gave his wife a thumbs up in return.

All three of them laughed. Silence ensued as they sink in everything that just happened.

"Well what are you two waiting for? Go ahead and do whatever you want, we'll wait inside the car Dahyun-nie." Mrs. Kim chuckled.

"Oh y-yes, mom!"

Before her mother was about to open the door, Dahyun hurriedly hugged her mother. "Thank you so much, mom."

"You're welcome, my sweet Dubu. I'm sorry for the torment we've caused you both."

Dahyun nodded and pecked her mother's cheek. "Like YN said, I forgive you and dad too. It's never too late to change, and I'm happy that you two quit on being disrespectful and offensive to one's sexuality."

Mrs. Kim smiled and rode the car. "Say goodbye to YN, I know she has to return back to her shift."

Dahyun closed the door and walked back on YN who is standing confidently. "Now the world is in favor of us now, Dahyun. I told you I would never give up on us and  when I come back, I would make it all possible.

"And I knew you could it do it all along, babe." Dahyun smirked and pinched YN's tip of the nose.

"I love you, Dahyun. I won't let anything that will make me lose you this time."

"I love you too, YN."

After the exchange of wholehearted words, Dahyun and YN embraced their unconditional, romantic relationship full of triumph, pride and equality with another kiss as it adds to the wonderful things they possess in the new chapter of their love story together where they overcome the barriers and bridge their gap to be in each other's arms again.

[enluv]

COCO!!! it’s been so long i’m so sorry i’m responding late😭 ik my last ask was a lot so i’m really thankful that you shared your thoughts! i’m so glad you mentioned all the different types of love there is cause i think oftentimes, non-romantic love is so overlooked bc of how much romantic love is valued in society. i’ve never met someone who’s fav holiday is valentine’s day and that’s so sweet that you celebrate all the different types of love🥹 i’m definitely gonna start doing that from now on! i have watched pride and prejudice once and i remember loving it!! definitely due for a rewatch!! unfortunately i have not been able to watch new girl yet since school has been so busy 😔 the SECOND winter break starts, that’s the first thing i’m doing!! i hope you’re doing well right now given finals week is just around the corner. i’m currently battling through my toughest week with a midterm and final for the same class back to back, a final speech presentation, and my first acapella concert! (if i don’t come back to update you by the end of the week, that means i’ve lost the battle) whatever you have going on right now, remember to take care of yourself mentally and physically! you’ll do great on your finals and we’ll get through this together <3

nessa!

NESSA!!! okay i can finally properly answer your ask now that I’m free for a month and don’t have to worry about school (nasty) !! DONT APOLOGIZE FOR ANSWERING LATE OMG AS IF I DIDNT TAKE LIKE AN ENTIRE MONTH LAST TIME BYEEEEEE! honestly I really enjoyed your last ask and how it gave me like the chance to talk about love, and I completely agree with you! non-romantic love is overlooked because society values romantic love so much!! and don’t get me wrong I completely understand why but all love is important like we need to value them all or we get stuck yearning for romantic love and forget that we have other types of love in our lives! but yes Valentine’s Day is my favorite holiday !! it’s just so much fun and I encourage you to celebrate it!! seeing all the love around you will definitely make you happy and full I promise! i hope you didn’t lose the battle nessa 😞 you’ll be missed dearly if you did! but thankfully I survived finals and made it here to winter break, if you have any recommendations for me to watch for this long (and much needed) break do send them my way! hopefully you’re okay and thriving though, I am once again very sorry for this late reply but I do hope you were able to make it to winter break! whenever you see this don’t feel at all rushed to answer, take your time and enjoy your break <3

[magicalgirloffduty]

1.3.25 - aka the exact start of my villain arc

week 4 of the 6-week semester.

Does anyone else ever feel stupid for things out of their control in class?? because right now I feel like the only person in the world who does...

I feel a little helpless today, so let's start on the positives. I got an A- on my English midterm! Which, considering how nervous I was about it... I will take it. I'm not behind in any English work at all, and I feel like my grades in that class actually reflect the effort I put in...this has never happened before in my life! This is a cause for celebration... Townsville is saved! Pack it up! So you THOUGHT.

I'm going to preface this by saying I am very black and white about my own academics. In middle school, I'd never answer the questions to a test if I didn't know the answer... and everything I did answer was always correct. I like to think I've matured but returning to college will be the judge of that, I fear

So, I have a language class with a very disorganized professor, who seems very knowledge, but I just can't seem to learn from him for the life of me, and it feels like no matter what I do I keep getting surprise deadlines, missing assignments and general confusion on how the class structure works and the worst part is? I've studied this language before! This was supposed to be a refresher course, and it’s ended up being the biggest headache of my life. I feel so stupid for this, but I honestly have stopped showing up to the physical classes because he doesn't answer his emails and... I can hear every teacher who's complained about me to my face in my head telling me that this a sign that I just can't do education. I want to just drop it all entirely start fresh and redo the whole thing but I CAN'T, I know it's not reasonable but... I'm overwhelmed.

Realistically? I've kind of resigned myself to a C, a tactical retreat if you will, and hope that my genuine interest in the language and being a little above the class level will help me get there but in my heart I just feel like if I can't even pass the elementary level class to the language I already know what am I even doing here? I don't even have parents to give me proper, applicable advice for class. I don't know what to do...but a very small part of me hopes I can go back and read this knowing that there is a happy ending to this because a year ago I never thought I'd even be capable of an A so... here's to hoping.

-- I need a break. Save me or shoot me... i don't know which I prefer at this point xoxo.

[uniquejellyfishqueen]

7/17/2018 TS The Reputation Stadium Tour N1/1 Cleveland @ FirstEnergy Stadium. The surprise song was “Babe”

8/7/2018 TS The Reputation Stadium Tour N1/1 @ Heinz Field . The surprise song was “A Place in This World”

9/9/2018 TS The Reputation Stadium Tour N1/1 Kansas City @ Arrowhead. The surprise song was “The Story of Us”

*the days of the month from the above 3 dates make another date: 9/7/2017.

9/9/2018 The Steelers and The Browns tied in over time 21-21

Mirrored 21 21 is 12/12 which is the day before her 35th birthday

But in 2018 it would have been her 29th birthday…. “You’re 29 years old” “Us” Gracie Abrams ft Taylor Swift.

9/9/2018 - 12/8/2024 = 74 months and 29 days

7+4‎ = 11

29

11/29 was The Target Black Friday release.

Cleveland has 7 losses against Pittsburgh since 9/9/2018

Cleveland has 6 wins against Pittsburgh since 9/9/2018

The most recent match up between the two teams was on 11/21/2024 (8 days before the target release) Cleveland beat Pittsburgh 24 - 19

12/11/1924 (Thursday) James B. Duke, founder of the American Tobacco Company and Duke Power Company, a philanthropist who was one of the wealthiest men in the U.S., gave $40,000,000 to The Duke Endowment, a trust fund he had created

TS used the Koi Fish guitar on 7/7/2023 in KC N2 when she played Last Kiss (messed up twice, this was also the “friendship bracelet” game from Travis)

8/7/2018 -8/7/2023

= 256 weeks and 1 day (13 1….113?)

The 113 eras show was on 7/9/2024 N1 in Zurich where she sang 2 songs on guitar and 2 songs on piano

AG: Right Where Your Left Me // All You Had To Do Was Stay

AP: Last Kiss // Sad Beautiful Tragic

*she also said “Happy July 9th to those who celebrate”

7/9/2024 - 12/8/2024

= 4 months and 29 days

Yes Taylor we really want to know where you were on April 29.

“You know there's many different ways

That you can kill the one you love

The slowest way is never loving them enough” - High Infidelity

“And the air is thick with loss and indecision

I know my pain is such an imposition

Now, you're runnin' down the hallway

And you know what they all say

You don't know what you got until it's gone

Stop, you're losin' me

Stop, you're losin' me

Stop, you're losin' me

I can't find a pulse

My heart won't start anymore” - You’re Losing Me released on 11/29/2023 as a single.

11/29/2023 - 12/8/2024

= 12 months and 9 days ….. the day after tour ends… which is also tomorrow.

2190 days from 12/8/2024 was 12/10/2018.

12/10/2018:

Nissan, the company's former chairman Carlos Ghosn, and an aide are indicted on charges that Ghosn underreported about ¥5 billion ($44.5 million) of his income. Ghosn's arrest warrant is renewed.

Russian serial killer and former policeman Mikhail Popkov is convicted of an additional 56 murders between 1992 and 2007. All of his victims were women.

Russell Bishop is convicted of the murder of Karen Hadaway and Nicola Fellows. He had been tried and found not guilty of the crimes in 1987, but the acquittal was quashed as new evidence in the form of DNA was now available. Bishop had been convicted in December 1990 of the abduction, indecent assault and attempted murder of a seven-year-old girl in February of that year.

Thirty-three people are hospitalized in Pavia, Lombardy, Italy, after pepper spray was fired inside the gym of a school. This is the second pepper spray-related incident in the country in three days. On 8 December, six people died when someone fired the spray inside a nightclub, causing a stampede

French President Emmanuel Macron addresses the country following the yellow vests protests. While refusing to reinstate a wealth tax or back down on the current reform agenda, he promises an increase to the minimum wage and to remove some taxes on low income earners

8 weeks and 5 days (13) before 12/10/2018 was…..

10/10/2018 Taylor Swift performed “I Did Something Bad” at the American Music Awards (AMAs) and urged fans to vote in the upcoming midterm elections

10/10/2018 - 12/8/2024 is

2251 days (10)

73 months (10) 28 days (10) - or 10/28? 10/28/2008 Big Machine released “You’re Not Sorry” via ITunes for downloads. “You’re not Sorry” Taylor’s Version was released on 4/9/2021

The two versions of this song were released 149 months and 12 days apart.

1+4+9‎ = 14

12

12/14 is the day after her 35th birthday and 6 days post tour

The top song in the United States of America on 12/14/1989 was “We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel.

The cancelled Vienna ET shows were on 8/8, 8/9. And 8/10/24.

8+9+1‎ = 18

8/18….?

8/18/2015 1989 World Tour Glendale N2… she did not include the usually performed “This Love” on her set list and the surprise song was “Fifteen”. This was at place 9 on the 17 song set list.

9/17/2015 1989 World Tour Columbus N1. The surprise song was “Red”. And she did not include “All You Had To Do Was Stay” or “This Love”

2 years and 7 months and 21 days later is 5/8/2018 Rep Staudium Tour N1 Glendale, show #1 of the tour. Surprise Song was “All Too Well”

2+7‎ = 9

21 mirrored is 12

12/9????

So if Glendale is important….

3/17/2023 - 12/8/2024

632 days (11)

1 year 8 months and 21 days (12)

20 months and 21 days

11/12/2021…. The release of the All Too Well Short Film and also the release of Red (Taylor’s Version)

The 15-minute film premiered at the AMC Lincoln Square in New York City and was released in select theaters and on YouTube. It stars Swift, Sadie Sink, and Dylan O'Brien. The film was critically acclaimed and won several awards, including Video of the Year and Best Direction at the 2022 MTV Video Music Awards

Swift promoted the album on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and Late Night with Seth Meyers on November 11. She also performed "All Too Well (10 Minute Version)" on Saturday Night Live the following day.

******3 YEARS IN ADVANCE

Collaborated with Starbucks to commemorate the album's release

Collaborated with Peloton to use songs from the album in their fitness classes

Performed "All Too Well (10 Minute Version)" live at the premiere of All Too Well: The Short Film

*I have so many opinion’s on this music video/short film.

[studentmom]

My weekly life

In the world of a student mom, life unfolds in a dynamic rhythm,with each day offering a unique set challenges and rewards. This blog takes you on a journey through a week in my life, as I juggle the roles of dedicated student and a loving mother and how I navigate the intricate dance that is my weekly routine.

Monday, signals the beginning of another demanding week. It commences with the delightful sound of my children's laughter, a heartwarming reminder that each day starts with a dose of love. My day kicks off with breakfast, snacks and lunch preparations. Once the morning routine is complete, I transition into student mode. At 8am we had a midterm examination until 6pm. Despite the challenges, the drive to provide a better future for my children fuels my determination.

Tuesday, brings a unique set of challenges. Being a mother my responsibilities is to accompany my children to their school activity, it is United Nation Celebration. I'm happy because the sense of accomplishment at the end of the day makes it all worthwhile.

Wednesday, is an exhausting day, I had a bad day but life must go on. That's all I can say.

Thursday, Ma'am gave a lesson about netiquettes. And then one of our teacher discussed about the Limasawa Church.

Friday, As the week nears its end, Friday is a time for reflection. It's a day to evaluate the progress made both academically and in my role as a mother. Every milestone achieved feels like a step toward a brighter future for my children. The significance of my role as a student mom becomes more apparent, and it propels me to continue striving for success.

Saturday, I went to school because I thought we are required to watched the Basketball tournament of the SPJ Varsity players but unfortunately it was for the student who wants to watched.

Sunday, family time weekend brings respite and quality family time. It's a period to balance work, studies, and household chores with precious moments spent with my child. Weekend outings, picnics, or educational activities are cherished opportunities for bonding. These moments remind me that, as a student mom, my child's growth and happiness are at the core of my journey.