#he actually manipulated him to get the chocolate-flavored one

[ayasenisan1713]

Park Moondae: Should I eat the chocolate-flavored ice cream or the vanilla-flavored one?

Cheongryeo: You should eat the chocolate-flavored.

Park Moondae: *proceeds to eat the vanilla-flavored one*

Cheongryeo: *eating the chocolate-flavored ice cream*

Cheongryeo: ^^

[woncon]

➳ deal with the devil

➶ enhypen hyung line x demon!reader ｡˚ °

-ˏ` ✎﹏ "See? Who's the victim and who's the hunter is a matter of opinion. You've got the throwing star, but your neck bleeds because of my teeth. Who's who now?"

The whole university went out to haunt people on Halloween night, but you're in detention. So you're playing a game of hunter and prey. They're the hunters, you're the prey.

Only for a while.

➴ genre: suggestive, demon au, warlock au, supernatural college au, pre-poly / friends in a big situationship

: ̗̀➛ warnings: very slight knife play, jakehoon (not actually, you'll get it), seduction as manipulation (it works!), predator/prey with a twist, biting, making out, actually not as dark as it seems

⌨ :: 4.2K words ♡ ︵ . .

⁀➷ i'm a little late, but it's done. happy halloween, engenes! 🎃

⁀➷ thanks to @wonsheep for beta-ing this <3 i'll give you a pack of jelly beans later.

➳ mlist

The cursed piano plays his favorite classic in the Music Room. Melancholic, dark melodies float towards you as the heel of your shoe beats up the silence of the abandoned corridor. You twirl the sweets in your pocket. Jungwon gave them to you before he left to go and scare people. He probably did it out of pity, since you couldn't go with him to the usual Halloween campus program. The piano in the distance starts a new song, and you take off to push the arched door of the Hall of the Immortals, decorated with vines and skulls. The wood wails to let you enter the hall, where the rituals of demons and witches usually take place. Right now there are no reddish pentagrams painted on the floor or heavy, sinister books and bones on the table. Only a few candles flicker and surround a table with four mugs on it. There's a fifth, held in the warlock’s palm, and he's about to plunge a dollop of thick, brownish liquid from the pot with great care into it.

You wait for the door to slam behind you, shutting out the piano's dismal song, but instead somebody catches the heavy door, and you are perhaps a little startled by the sudden presence behind you.

“Mugs? Really?” Heeseung looks on with disbelief as he sidesteps you. “The school has so many goblets, there's one for every rite. And you put the curse into a mug?”

“Don't be such a snob,” says Jay, placing the filled cup next to the others. He neatly arranges them in a circle.

“I'm not a snob,” replies Heeseung darkly.

“Imagine that it's just pumpkin flavored hot chocolate. Four really is just that, so maybe you don't even have to imagine.”

Although, the way Jay is looking at Heeseung right now, he might want the elder to choose the one with the curse. To somehow relieve the tension you sense, you walk over to the table and eye the similarly plain brown china, from which a fragrant, spicy steam rises.

“They're cute,” you note.

Heeseung snorts and leans against one of the tables against the wall. The light from the candles doesn't reach there, and his tall figure is completely lost in the darkness, in the shadow. Remembering how lonely and desolate the university's castle is this evening, you wish he would drink the curse, that he'd be the one to be hunted down tonight. He's so good at blending in, that you probably wouldn't catch him.

“Where did you get them?” You stroke one of the mugs’ handles and stare hard, in hope that you recognise the cursed one.

“From the kitchen. Someone in the divination department has already got the mugs in advance, so that we can paint on them at Christmas.”

It was the same last year, you painted on mugs before the break. Everyone had a chance to get creative and take the results home. But for now, you're going to play. Christmas is still a distant, frost-white dream. At the hour of death, when the bodies crawl out of the grave and the children dress up as monsters while the monsters themselves walk among them, you are going to play a game in which someone nearly dies. 

One of you.

The door opens with another slam. An impatient demon rushes to the table.

“Are you ready? Is the curse in there?” asks Jake, leaning so far against the table that the drinks are shaken and the tip of his horn almost grazes Jay's skin. “Can we start?”

His excitement spreads to the candles. They flare up, burning orange and giving off enough light for you to see the tip of Heeseung's boot.

“Sunghoon is not here yet.”

“Did he chicken out?” Heeseung asks mockingly.

“Haha, no,” replies Sunghoon, who also emerges from the shadows, but not through the door. He came through the secret witch's passage from the hall, which the demons don't know about, so you can only guess which way the entrance might be. “I've just spiced up the curse to make sure it's effective. With snake venom.”

And the flames burn faster, even more brightly. The white wax drips in hot drops down the melting stump, as if to symbolize Jake's anticipation. You, on the other hand, who has no effect on the lights with your emotions, are merely blown away because the contents of the vial Sunghoon brought you mix so easily with the hot chocolate that after Jay spins the tray on which the mugs are standing, you have no idea which one contains the poison-turbocharged curse. 

You're about to find out.

You're all gathered around the table, and it's not just Jake and the candles that are radiating excitement anymore. You can hardly breathe.

“Everybody take one. On three," Jay says in a serious tone. “One, two, three.”

You reach for one of the cups that looks sympathetic. With a trembling hand you lift it to your mouth.

"Ouch, it's hot!" exclaims Jake.

"Obviously. Because it's hot chocolate," Heeseung rolls his eyes. Sunghoon scowls at him.

“Do you feel strange?” Jay asks Jake, who is fanning his tongue.

“It just hurts like hell.”

Finally, after the interlude, you pluck up the courage and drink your own. You are careful, only taking a tiny sip, so you don't burn yourself like others, but it immediately starts burning your mouth and then your throat. You grip your skin, fingers curling into claws, hoping to scrape the tantalizing taste out of you. This is not what a pumpkin flavored hot chocolate is like, not at all.

You fall to your knees, gasping for air. A supporting hand brushes your shoulder. When you feel better, you stand up.

You feel immortal, and yet very, very vulnerable. Weak. Like a victim.

///

Your friends are lurking to kill you.

Three important events have led to this moment, as far as you can tell. First, the day you were learning in demonology class about the various torture methods that demons have developed together with witches. One of these was the curse of immortality, where a person is immortal and can therefore be tortured beyond the extreme. Then came the time when you summoned a spirit with Sunghoon's ouija board. The spirit lady possessed Sunghoon and flirted with Jake through him. Jake was so embarrassed that the armchair underneath him immediately caught on fire, and half the lounge was burnt down before they could put the flames out. It didn't end well for the community space, nor for you. That's when you were banned from going out into the human world on Halloween to haunt. So that led to the third event, when you were wondering what to do to distract yourselves when Halloween came. What could you do to have fun? Jake suggested horror movies. Heeseung said those are boring because what's the point of watching killers hunt when you could be the ones hunting. And the picture came together. 

That's how your friends happened to be hunting you down today. With crossbows, knives, swords, anything and everything they can find. If they catch you before dawn and make you give up, they win. If you hold out and survive, you win. 

The scariest part is you don't know what they're up to. How they're going to get you, and with what.

You fear Heeseung the most. His family is a traditional one of demons who sacrifice goats on full moons and blood moons. With such experience and your horns twisted into the shape that goats’ ones are, it's easy to imagine you as the animal and take your blood until you beg for them to stop. It's just a sick fantasy, you reassure yourself. Heeseung can't see you as a goat if he recalls you kissing in his bed a few days ago. He probably doesn't do that to sacrificial goats. There is some level of tender emotion here.

You turn in after one of the rows of lockers. You don't know exactly where you are. You don't usually have classes in this corner of campus, and it doesn't help that there's no lighting. Yesterday, colorful decorations hung everywhere and talking, red-eyed skeletons strutted at the doors of classrooms to greet students arriving for class. Real bats fluttered around the ceiling, occasionally getting into the hair of passers-by. Pumpkins were placed here and there and their scent was everywhere. But the memory is not worth much now. The university is haunted. A murderers' den. The den of your murderers.

And as much as you're a successful demon, proud of your professors, at this moment you're nothing but a frightened victim, not sure if you're capable of being a ‘final girl’. But you're trying as hard as you can.

In your pocket, you're fiddling with your sweets. Your palms are sweating, your sweets may be melting soon. When the candy papers make noise, you quickly reach out and look around. It is deathly quiet. Everything is still. You've long since left the piano's surroundings behind you. Have they banded together to hunt you down as a team, or are they looking for you individually? Where are the witches' passages? Do Jake and Heeseung use the demons' ones?

You can't hide your fear. Your breathing gets heavier with each passing minute.

It's just a game. Just a game, you remind yourself. Or at least it is now. In the Middle Ages, it wasn't considered a game by the poor people who were tortured to madness.

Something snaps. Must be the knightly armor worn by the fanged pig statues in the corridors. It's been knocked off, then it fell softly to the carpet. What did they knock it down with? That's an easy question to answer when you hear the heavy weapon being dragged across the carpet. A big poleaxe, a very big poleaxe is coming, and it's coming for you.

Your footsteps become frantic, but you try to remain silent and get as far away from your pursuer as possible. The corridor ends in a staircase somewhere, you can make it that far and then decide which way to go. Except that somewhere nearby a door opens. Right in the direction you're going. You're forced to hide in the nearest room before you're trapped halfway down. As quietly as you can, you push down on the handle, squeeze through the gap and throw your back against the door. You close your eyes in the darkness and try to slow your breathing. In, out, in, out.

But you're not alone here either. Something squeaks in the dark, then croaks. Hisses and scratches. It makes a throat sound, rises, then finally lands on your shoulder. It's the three-headed bird, the university mascot. You don't have to see it to know it's rubbing its raven head against your hair. That's the head on the far left. Then comes the owl, and finally the hawk.

He's waiting for a treat. You give him something every time you see him. If you don't, he starts throwing a fit, which means it starts squawking loudly with all three heads as if were an alarm.

“Hi, Casper,” you greet him quietly. “Look what I brought you.”

You reach into your pocket and take out the first piece of candy. Carefully, you peel it out of the wrapper and drop it in the crow's mouth. It happily closes up. Then the owl's opens. You pop the next candy into it, and so far you're very proud of your thriftiness. The hawk is also waiting for its turn, but there's only empty paper in your pocket when you're rummaging around. You remember that you ate the third piece you had, because the poison still tasted awful, even after you'd swallowed the disgusting sip. You sucked on the candy during the rules discussion, and it tasted so good. At this moment, you miss it very much.

The hawk closes his mouth, opens it again, makes a soft noise, then nips the back of your hand.

“I'm sorry, but that's it. That's all, okay? I'll bring you more next time if you don't open your beak, hmm?” You bargain pleadingly. 

Your physical wellness depends on a sugar-addicted monster bird. As it turns out, Capser is not on your side. He flies off your shoulder, his wings rustling loudly in the dark. Then his voice rings out. All three of his mouths start to wag at once, wanting more than two grains of sugar.

“Fuck.”. 

You need to get out. Quickly.

You start feeling around the furniture. You're in the library, you know the feel of the old armchairs. Since most of the lounge burned down, you've been coming here under strict supervision. As you've been here many times, you know there's a secret demon passage in the wall. If you can get there, maybe you'll get lucky and your blood won't stain the furniture. And if you're lucky, you won't run into anybody in there who wants to stab you either.

You start walking carefully and almost fall on your face, tripping in one of the coffee tables. The door creaks open and the bard clatters on the floor of the room. Scrambling on your aching foot, you reach the secret door and throw yourself behind it. And then, with your ankle throbbing, you dash.

You run and run, as if it was the hot, angry hell at your heels.

Somehow you get to your own room. A pentagram lies reassuringly on the floor. You fall to your knees in it, breathing thunderously. You could do with a fiery cup of coffee or an energy drink to give you strength. But at least this hand-drawn pentagram radiates security. It's like you've found sanctuary.

You need a plan.

But when a masked figure emerges from under Jungwon's blanket, you can't think of plans. You leap up to dart for the door, but a sword stands in your way. If you keep going, it will cut you in two. Instead, you jump back into the pentagram and look up at your captor. His mask is a weeping drama face. He's wrapped himself in a cloak that covers his entire face. You cannot tell if the horns you see belong to him or to the mask. He waves his gloved hand at you.

“What's it going to be? Are you going to skewer me?”

The masked man shakes his head. He gets up from the bed, now towering over you. He draws a question mark in the air with the tip of his sword, then points at himself.

“You?” you ask. “What about you?”

He shrugs. 

Maybe this guessing game is worse than if he'd thrown you up on the edge of his sword in the first minute. Him playing games with you makes you nervous. You're surprised to find your fear is fading. This could have something to do with the beneficial effects of the pentagram. In any case, you're able to forge a plan.

“Oh, come on, now. Take the mask off.”

He shakes his head.

You think about the chains under your bed.

You are not allowed to use weapons. Their wounds will not heal as yours will thanks to the curse. But no one said you couldn't use your charm. If your starting point is that you've been in all of their mouths, you have a chance to play this card. What do you have to lose by trying? If they all want to play, that's fine. If they underestimate you, you can take advantage. They have the weapons, but you're smart. If you push fear and panic to the back of your mind, you can succeed. You can succeed because you're tired of running around with them just waiting here and there, chasing you. 

Let this be a game for you, too.

“Should I guess who's under there?”

This time he nods.

“Then you let me go?”

He pauses, thinking. Then he nods enthusiastically. 

He should know better than to make a deal with the devil.

“Hmm. Give me a minute.”

You get up and dust off your knees. It feels good to be back to yourself. You're not looking at a killer anymore, you're looking at one of your friends dressed as a killer. But which one? Heeseung hates wearing masks at ceremonies, not to mention he's not the playful type. If he has to stab you to win, he'll stab you. He's out. You're taking a good look at the masked man. He's got sneakers peeking out from under his robe. Jay's wearing brown boots. That leaves Sunghoon and Jake.

How exciting.

You reach for the top button of your shirt and undo it. And then the next one. “Wow. I'm so hot from running around.”

When you reach the third button, and most of your chest is perfectly visible, the candle on the desk comes to life and burns orange. You smile in satisfaction and put your hands on your hips.

“So will you take the mask off, Jake?”

He tilts his head towards the table, then sighs in disappointment. He takes the mask off.

“You took advantage of my embarrassment!”

“That's it. Now come here. Your hair is all messed up.”

Jake drops the sword, takes off the cloak, and obeys. You take the mask from him and arrange his locks.

“Good,” you nod. You step out of the pentagram. “Claude eam,” you murmur, and the pentagram glows red.

“What? Did you really just lock me up?” the boy asks, stunned. “But I let you go!”

“Sorry, but I haven't forgiven you for threatening me with a sword yet," you blow a kiss in the air, then reach for the robe resting on Jungwon's bed. “And I need to borrow this.”

“What are you up to?”

You just wink, then put on his mask. It's interesting to wear the enemy's face. When you put on the cloak too, you transform completely. You go from prey to full-fledged hunter.

“Oh. You look hot like this.”

“Thanks.”

///

It's not difficult to find Sunghoon, you just have to follow the sound of the poleaxe scraping on the carpet. You tap his hunched back. He looks up.

“Jakey! Did you find them?”

You nod. Sunghoon straightens up completely.

“Where?”

You take him by the arm and lead him to the nearest room. Luckily, there are windows and enough moonlight to keep you from tripping. You're in the dining room. A fitting location for what you plan to do with Sunghoon. You point to a long table with a tablecloth that reaches to the floor. Sunghoon approaches. He slowly kneels beside it, then peers under the tablecloth.

You take advantage of this and push him to the ground, straddling his hips.

"Jake!" he exclaims in surprise. "What are you doing?”

You put your finger over his mouth. You run it down his chin, down his neck, over his Adam's apple, down and down and down his chest. When your palm strokes his stomach under his shirt, Sunghoon's mouth opens, his head dropping to the carpet. With your free hand, you pull the scarf from your pocket. You stole it from one of the ghost decorations and put it to good use when you blindfold the boy. He looks irresistible like this under you. You take off the mask and kiss his chin.

“We have to find-” You grab his hips. He immediately falls silent.

As you push his shirt up his stomach, he thrusts his hips up. You clasp his wrists, lift them above his head, and pull a magic cuff from your other pocket. You stole this from the torture chamber exhibit. It doesn't open with a key, only with a spell. Sunghoon can entertain himself with it.

You cuff both his hands to the leg of the table. You lean to his ear.

“What were you planning to do with that axe?” you whisper.

Sunghoon stiffens under you, but soon relaxes again.

“I didn't mean to hurt you, just to scare you.”

“You succeeded. I don't want to get you laid either, just to get you horny. Did I succeed as well?” You sit on his groin. Sunghoon moans. “Yeah, it seems so.”

“Please…”

“Don't worry. I'll be back soon. There are only two of you left.”

You climb down and out from under the table. The successful hunt gives you endorphins. You can't wait for the next victim to walk into your trap.

///

You don't have to search for long. As soon as a throwing star whizzes past you, all you have to do is turn around and there's Jay. In his hand, he's twirling the next throwing star.  “Give up.”

“No, thank you.”

He throws the next one, which rips your shirt, but doesn't hurt you. You back up to the nearest wall and let him use you as a target. Jay misses again and again. He doesn't want to hurt you, and that's comforting..

“Give up,” he steps in front of you. “Please. We never should have agreed to play this game in the first place.”

You put your arm around his waist and pull him closer to you. “I'm fine.”

“As of now. But you haven't met Heeseung, have you? You didn't see that fire in his eyes.”

“When we meet, I'll defeat him.”

“How?”

"With my mouth," you tell him. You stroke his jugular with the tip of your nose. "I'll beat you with my mouth too."

You lick his skin, then sink your teeth into it, the movement soft and light like a knife in butter. Jay's forehead falls to your shoulder, but he doesn't flinch, doesn't resist. You lean away and smile up at him. His eyes are misty.

"See? Who's the victim and who's the hunter is a matter of opinion. You've got the throwing star, but your neck bleeds because of my teeth. Who's who now?"

“I'm... dizzy.”

“I know.”

You help him slide down the wall and stretch out on the ground. By the time he lands, he's asleep. 

You smeared your teeth with a sleeping potion called vampire kisses. You bought it as a joke, you’ve never used it before. You had to go back to the room to get it, but at least you could see that Jake was okay. He summoned himself a console, and he's playing on it in the middle of the pentagram. 

You wrap the stolen cloak around Jay's body, then head to finish your hunt for the day. 

You plan the finale to be truly spectacular and grandiose.

///

The cursed piano doesn't play alone. Ten fingers rest on its keys and duet with it. The music is somber and dark, deep but inviting. You hope Heeseung, your last killer, your last prey, will come to hear your serenade. You’re playing for him.

You aren't disappointed. He doesn't even try to hide his footsteps, as if he was just waiting to see when you'll reveal yourself to him.

"It's a painful song," he says when you finish. You turn towards him on the bench.

With the light of the candles you have lit for the occasion, his face is half lost in the shadows, but you easily recognise the pocket knife held loosely in his hand.

“Painful, but beautiful. Just like you.”

Heeseung chuckles. “How can I stab you when you’re flirting with me?”

You shrug. “Be creative.”

“Yeah?”

He steps closer. He lifts your chin with the tip of the knife. There's indeed a wildness in his eyes, but Jay misread that. He's not like this because he wants to kill, but because he can give chase. You know it because your gaze would be the same if you looked in the mirror. The happiness of a successful hunt turns Heeseung's face red and makes his eyes sparkle, but he doesn't actually want to hurt you.

One by one, he cuts off your buttons and looks you in the eye. They all fall to the ground and scatter.

“I met Sunghoon on the way here.”

“Did you like the view?”

Heeseung's tongue strokes his fang. – “You're evil. Wicked.”

“I wouldn't say that. I'm rather consistent. They were the ones who made a deal with the devil. These are the consequences.”

“And what do I deserve?”

“I'm thinking about it.” Even though you say that, you already know what you want to do with him. You want him to remember that you defeated him for a long time.

“That means you're not giving up, right?” Heeseung helps you out of your shirt.

“If I remember the rules correctly, the game is over when I beg.”

“Understood.” He sits down next to you on the piano bench and kisses you. You part your lips and brush your tongue against his. Heeseung shudders. Your palm slides to his thigh, and he drops the knife. 

Of the four, he is the most hungry for touch. He doesn't like to admit it, hiding behind his smug, cold and mocking mask, but when you’re making out, it's obvious. You lean in close, let him touch you where he wants, and when he can't think of anything but you, you ask him.

“Did I win?”

“You won.”

It's as sweet to hear that from his lips as it is to kiss them. It's as sweet as Jay's blood, the fire from Jake's embarrassment, or even as sweet as Sunghoon's commitment to drag a bard across campus just to scare you. Sweet enough to make your victory complete.

[narabea06]

Nina the Killer Headcanons [Part 2!!!]

Requested by my sibling @horror-oberon-3!! Love you sib!!! /fam

Also, here's part 1 of my Nina hcs!!

TW: Minor Mentions of Abuse + Manipulation

Nina loves using emotes, and most frequently uses ":3" and ":D" the most. She's been trying to get BEN and Toby to try using them too as well, but Toby usually only uses ":(" and the thumbs up emoji.

Nina loves taking photos of her and her friends, and will force Toby and BEN to pose with her to take more twenty photos together every time they hang out.

Nina actually was the one to cut Jeff's hair properly after the incident to give him his emo undercut. Jeff had begged her to fix it for them after seeing how Nina had finally gotten her hair to get how she wanted it.

Nina actually always wears either a onesie or a lacy nightgown to bed, depending on how cold it is. She always prefers to go to bed looking cute then anybody catch her not looking her best.

Her hair is so damaged from bleaching and dying it so much.

She’s a skater girl. She could roller skate, but she mostly has a skateboard she likes to use.

She watched Invader Zim as a kid, and still has a bunch of pins and posters of it.

Nina has lots of stims, mainly ones of her jumping, stomping, humming, patting her knees, and chewing on stuff.

She’s a dog person, and has been trying to get Mary to get one.

She's a great pickpocket, and loves to steal stuff from people. Nina will collect pins, comics, jewelry, bottle tabs, etc, and sometimes she will straight up steal stuff that she thinks are too cool to leave.

She is a BIG Sanrio fan. Chris was too, and his favorite character was Keropi, while hers was Kirumi.

They’re a big sweet tooth. She would rather desserts be something way too sweet, than have any dessert taste bitter. They love chewing gum, but they only like fruity flavored gum. Therefore, she hates dark chocolate and mint flavored food.

She has a locket with a picture of her and Chris that she made.

Despite Chris being Michelle’s favorite, Nina could never hate him, though she was pretty bitter about the situation for a few years.

Nina had a huge crush on Jeff for a bit in highschool after her and Clockwork broke up, which was also how Jeff was also able to manipulate her so easily.

Nina has a tongue piercing that Jane did for her.

She sleepwalks, and has insomnia and night terrors.

Nina knows how to play the guitar because her dad taught her when she was little. She sometimes still plays it for Jane and Mary.

Nina loves Monster High, and her favorite character is Twyla.

Nina hates wearing sweaters since they always feel too itchy for her.

She actually uses a switch blade as a weapon, not a kitchen knife.

Honestly, she is terrified of spiders, like to the point where she will break down at the sight of them. One time she tried to get over the fear by forcing herself to hold a spider she found, only to immediately panic and drop it in her room at Mary’s. She hasn’t been able to find the spider since, and refused to sleep in that room afterwards. Liu, thankfully, agreed to swap rooms with her, but she still refuses to go in there.

Oftentimes, on road trips and car rides, she will fall asleep the second the car starts moving.

Her and EJ get along pretty well although they do not interact much unless Nina is staying at the refuge, or Liu is hanging out with them. She often gossips to him a lot, though he doesn't quite understand.

Her favorite subject in highschool was chemistry, a class which she took with Cody.

Nina always answers the phone, no matter where she is or what she's doing. She will drop everything to make sure somebody doesn't think she's ghosting them.

Nina can play the flute, the guitar, and the trombone.

[cheesecakeislazy]

I feel like nobody is going to ever see this. But I just need to get some BEN Drowned headcanons out here-

1. He always wears his goofy ass hat because he never brushes his hair and it helps hide the absurd mess it is

2. Whenever Ben feels shocked, angry, or an overwhelming emotion, his pupils disappear leaving a black void(?)

3. His voice is naturally glitchy, it’s like his vocal cords are a messed up record player. Examples; He repeats words like a broken record occasionally, he tends to stutter pretty often, his voice has a constant static undertone, he has voice cracks but they sound cooler.

4. Virgin af

5. Short king (he’s 5’5)

6. Smokes weed and listens to Hyperpop and electronic music

7. He also loves video game soundtracks

8. He doesn’t technically need to sleep as a technology ghost, so he tends to pull all-nighters constantly

9. When he does sleep, he either has dreams about drowning in an abyss of water or other things he can’t remember

10. He listens to video game OST’s when he goes to bed (usually Minecraft or Legend of Zelda)

11. He loves the Zelda franchise but has a small grudge towards Majora’s Mask

12. He also doesn’t need to eat food, but he likes to anyways- it helps him feel human.

13. He doesn’t look exactly like Link. His blonde hair is a little pastier and dirtier (color wise lol) and his face still mostly looks like his

14. He’s toned. He hates being made fun of for his height so he started working his ass off at the gym to try and get some muscle

15. He loves brownies

16. Sour cream and onion is his favorite chip flavor

17. He is cracked at nearly every game he plays (he totally sucks at Among Us)

18. He can only take showers, baths scare him too much

19. He actually likes the beach, he just hates swimming to far out

20. He loves mint chocolate chip ice cream and Jeff thinks Ben is the devil because if it

21. Ben is bisexual, his motto is “Hole = Fucking Goal”

22. Ben doesn’t know how to flirt, so he just acts like himself (aka a dumbass)

23. He’s not a pervert unless he’s in a very good relationship, he makes sex jokes 24/7 but that’s because his humor is 13 year old boy humor

24. Ben is in his 20’s

25. Ben is a technology ghost. He’s a dead person aka a ghost. But his spirit lingered and possessed a gaming cartridge. Once his spirit was released from the game, he was able to transverse the internet. Computer, phone, tv, anything with a screen that’s connected to the wi-fi he can go through as he pleases

26. He’s really good at standing still like a statue

27. The Blood that leaks from his eyes is minimal most of the time and can be wiped off easily, he just chooses not to because he’s lazy

28. When Ben gets upset or any emotion to make him cry, the blood that oozes from his eyes literally thickens and bursts out

29. Ben hates bugs and he lets out a girly ass shriek when he sees one

30. He can teleport a decent distance, but he usually only teleports within the mansion (slender mansion AU)

31. He can summon fire from his hands but he doesn’t use it too often

32. Sometimes when he gets really mad, he unintentionally sets a fire (lots of controllers have been burned)

33. Ben can manipulate electricity, it makes his entire body warmer as he does it, Fire only makes his hands warm.

34. He tends to constantly have the electricity powers going on at a small level. Not enough to affect his electronics but enough to give you a small shock if you touched him. It gives him a sense of human like warmth

35. He always wears gloves because his hands are so frigid he can barely feel them.

[ryujnn]

► akuma. ﾟ｡ ⋆ i’m gonna be like you. (02)

► chapter summary ﾟ｡ ⋆ weddings can either go completely well and two newlyweds will enjoy starting a new life together— or the two getting married can dislike each other, and the bride’s mother dies.

► chapter warnings ﾟ｡ ⋆ pure angst. character death (mother). the wedding day. I SWEAR IT GETS GOOD AFTER THIS. the mother plays a big part— so more gojo and action after this chapter. reader shows some signs of depression but it isn’t heavy.

taglist. visual + character board. prev. next

“Rise and shine!” A familiar voice boomed over you, feeling the edges of your bed dip after suddenly being woken up.

You jumped, eyes flying open to see who had made the decision to not only scare the shit out of you, but wake you up so early. You swear you just fell asleep.

The beautiful, bright eyed smile that you knew and loved was from the person who had gotten you up. Your mother smiles down at you, legs bent on both sides of your resting body. She has the widest grin on her lips, and her hands were cupping your soft cheeks.

“I just finished sewing the lace sleeves on your dress, but now you have to get up!” Himari glances over to the clock, clicking her tongue at the time. “We’re gonna get facials and then we’re picking the chocolate we’re giving to people at the venue.”

You couldn’t help but be confused — utterly. Yeah, your mom had her coma, but this was an energy you hadn’t seen since you were about eight years old. You glanced over to the time… and it’s fucking 5AM.

The wedding doesn’t start until 6PM.

Himari bounced once more, dropping her hands to your shoulders to shake you. “Go brush your nasty mouth and let’s go! They’re waiting outside.”

You pulled your eyebrows together. “N-Nasty?”

Your mother inhales dramatically, immediately plugging her nose after. “Morning breath from hell.”

“Mom!” You push her off cautiously, tossing a pillow at her face before slipping out of your bed right after.

While adjusting the skimpy nightgown you slept in, you turned around and stomped over to the bathroom — cranky because your morning breath was insulted, and you wanted to desperately go back to sleep.

Himari chuckles, sitting up and pulling the pillow to her chest. “I’m sure Satoru would love to see that on you~. Is it champagne pink?”

Is this seriously your first boy talk with your mom?

“Satoru? Since when we’re you two on first name bases?”

She hums. “He’s marrying my daughter, I think I have the right to call him by his given,” Peeking over, she watches you begin to brush your teeth with a scowl on your face — one she’s seen since you were born. “I hope you’re calling him that too.”

You chuckle, pulling the toothbrush from your mouth. “How about I call him ‘asshole’.”

“Y/N.”

“No? What about ‘dumbass’.”

Himari stands up, enjoying the adrenaline running through her veins. She tosses the pillow to the side and rolls off your bed. “How about you meet me outside when you’re done.”

You quickly check over to your mother, examining her. “Mom, you alright?”

Himari looks over to you, answering with a smile, not a line on her face — not a bag under her eyes. She chuckles. “I’m perfect.”

But it’s only temporary.

No emotion. No matter how long you stared at yourself in the mirror, forcing yourself to smile more naturally, as if you’re actually excited, it didn’t work. Everytime your smile dropped, you looked dead — as if you were a corpse.

Your nimble fingers touched the growing bags under your eyes, running them down to your chapped and picked lips. Pick yourself up, is all you could think to yourself. You needed to pick yourself up— today was the big day.

Licking your lips and slapping your cheeks, you were attempting to make yourself feel better. Once you tell yourself you’re fine — you’re happy — today’s the day…! You’ll begin to feel it. Manipulate yourself.

You’re fine,

Rubbing the honey flavored beeswax on your lips, starting to solve one problem at a time— chapstick, check.

You’re happy,

A little concealer would do the trick, the makeup artists at the venue would simply go over it— never assuming you have bags in the first place. Look alive, check.

Today’s the day.

You jumped once the sound of your door opening caught up to you, causing you to spin on your socks, almost blistering your feet. One hand covered your heart, the other gripping the vanity behind you.

“You scared the holy hell out of me.”

“Apologies, thought you heard me walking to the door. The floorboards in here are horribly loud.”

You shook your head, closing your eyes. “Yeah, they’re pretty bad.” Looking away, you tried to advert your attention out of the window, looking at the green tinted lake in your view.

Nanami eyes take the same path as yours, viewing the lake, before turning right back you. All over his face was written pity— you didn’t want to see it, nor did you want to hear it. All the man could do was pull out a pen and charm, the noise of it jingling catching your attention like a cat.

You turn to examine whatever just made noise, and then back up to Nanami. He raises the charm, shaking it a bit. “It’s a good luck charm. They’re omamoris, they carry protection. Plus, it’s blue. Tradition, right?”

You took a small step forward, holding your hands out to accept the gifts. “I’m pretty sure the maid of honor provides the blue?”

“I’m still pretty offended you never asked me.”

A small smile tugged on your lips, shaking your head afterwards as you held your gifts. Nanami couldn’t help but smile back— glad to see you show a bit of emotion. Gojo told him about the situation with your mother, he even offered to cancel some of your sessions, but that was the last thing you wanted.

Go train and fight, learn something new that can save you from dying in a few months, or sit and mope about your mother’s soon to be death. God, did you have to weigh your options?

“Thank you, Nanami.” You smile, placing your gifts down on the dresser behind you before walking back towards the man, holding your arms out.

He visibly grimaces, a little dramatic than normal, but only to see you smile once more. He walks into your arms, returning the hug, rubbing his hand up and down your back.

“Who’s your maid of honor anyways?”

“Thank you, again. I mean— we’ve only know each other for a little, but I think we’re gonna be good friends. Respectfully, though. Since we’re… you know… I’m young and you’re old—”

Your eyes widened, immediately looking out of the curtain that was shielding you and your dress. She catches your view and covers her mouth, shaking her head, trying to cancel out what she had said.

“Maki, I think you’re nervous than I am.”

She nods, and you quickly close the curtain. You turned to see yourself in your dress, dove white — and skin tight, fabric spreading at your knees, long enough to drag behind you. A matching veil resting on your shoulders, covering your cut and bruised arms, dragging down with your dress. You felt beautiful.

Soft and gentle makeup, your hair was out of that pesky braid and ran down your back, nice and curled. The estimate length of your hair was about 50 inches straightened— you’d never cut it before, only trimming the dead ends off. For the first time in your life, you were wearing it out, showing everyone the true length. Not the pesky braid that ran down your shoulder everyday.

It was a good feeling.

“Y/N?” Your mother walked into your dressing room with another pair of footsteps, her voice booming with energy. Those few days in a coma really gave her a jump— she had never sounded this clear or this well in years.

The sound made the hair on your body bone, sending a shiver down your spine. “Ye—” You cleared your throat, brushing your hands down the dress. “Yes, mother?”

She blew out a sigh of relief, “I thought I missed the reveal,” Taking a spot next to Maki, she claps her hands together, her energy radiating over to the teenager next to her. “Okay, come out!”

You swallowed hard, making sure your overall appearance was okay. There wasn’t a hair out of place, all of it behind your shoulders, small pieces framing your face. You’re fine. You’re happy. Today is the day.

Both of the curtains were pulled back, revealing you and your new appearance. An appearance no one has seen before. Your mother gasps, cupping her mouth with her hands, tears swelling in her eyes. Maki smiles, holding her hands together and pressing them to her cheek, never taking her eyes off you. Was she swooning?

The second pair of footsteps, revealing a man in a black suit, hands deep in his pockets, has the slightest smile on his face. You’d only be able to notice if you squint— but you did. Your father looked… proud almost. Something you’ve never seen from him towards of you, only to your brother, Ryou.

After a few moments, you switch feet, growing uncomfortable at the silence. Of course, your maid of honor would immediately shut that down.

“You… wow. Look, you.. It’s wow. You look wow.”

You couldn’t help but chuckle, taking a small step towards Maki. “Thank you. You all also look wow.”

The bridesmaids dresses were a soft orange— a color you specifically chose. You begged everyone involved in your wedding to switch all accents colors to orange, even if the wedding was two days prior. Orange. Your new favorite color.

“Y/N,” Your mother catches your attention, taking a step forward closer to you. Her soft hands cupped your cheeks, her brown eyes staring deep into yours. She looked so healthy, as if she wasn’t sick. As if she wouldn’t die tonight.

“You’re absolutely fascinating, I mean it.”

You never took your eyes off your mother, you couldn’t. With a smile, tears making a bargain to escape your eyes, your hands covered your mothers. “Thank you, mom.” You respond, tears slipping back into your eyes.

Your father took a step next to you, placing a gentle hand on your shoulder. Once you looked up to him, he delivered the smallest and the only smile you’ve gotten from him your entire life. Maybe he did think you were beautiful— or maybe he was cherishing this last beautiful moment with his wife and daughter.

“You’re beautiful, Shio.”

“Thanks, dad.”

For a quick moment, your mother clasped your hand into hers and caught your attention, a devious smirk tugging on her lips. “I added something special in your suitcase. Open it when you get to your new house.” She winks, only making you roll your eyes.

The door swung open once more, interrupting the special moment between everyone in the room. A butler stood in the threshold, huffing in and out. “They’re— Theyre ready!” He switches sides of the door, holding it open for the bride, her maid of honor — and her parents.

You peek over to Maki, smiling over to the girl. “You ready to do this, maid of honor?”

She smiles back, being the first to exit the room. With both of your parents holding your hands, you followed her out, careful of your dress, careful of your emotions.

You’re fine. You’re happy. Today is the day.

(i nightly recommend playing this song while reading this part :D )

“Please rise.”

Over 200 guests all rise from their seats, turning to the threshold you were supposed to walk through. They all smiled with excitement, all waiting in anticipation for the first wedding of a born Shio woman… ever.

Once you began walking, holding both of your parents hands, you couldn’t help but look at everyone who was attending. A chuckle left your lips— and everyone’s eyes that were on you would’ve guessed it was genuine. You were happy. You were fine. That it was your day.

But it wasn’t— and they’re just all truly gullible. Your fathers holding your hand, proudly walking the daughter he never wanted up the steps— your mother on your opposite side, walking with a smile on her face as if she wasn’t going to be dead within a few hours.

And the man— the man who you would now call your husband— who doesn’t even like you. Gojo Satoru stood at the top of the steps, waiting for you to given to him— and given away by your parents. He wore a basic suit, but it didn’t look basic on him. His glasses were long gone, bright, azure blue eyes on display.

His snow—white hair was pulled by by gel, not too much, though. Just the right amount. Not too slick, not too messy. A piece of hair lingered and rested on his forehead, completing the look. Even though you wouldn’t tell him, he looked ravishing. Arranged marriage, yes, but at least it was with someone attractive.

Once your parents reached the steps, they released your hands before bowing, leaving you to walk up the final pair of steps alone. Here you were, being given away. These few seconds, the prolonged moment of you finishing the walk up the steps, would be the last time you’d be alone.

Step.

You’re going to be fine.

Step.

You’re going to be happy.

Step.

Today’s the big day.

Gojo took your hands, helping you up the final step, and assisting you in front of him. Your eyes are stuck on his hands, feeling his pale, bloom hands for the first time. They were pretty.

And while you admired your fiancée’s hands for the first time— he was too busy admiring you. He admired the way the warm, honey orange lights kissed your skin, causing your makeup to sparkle in the most subtle way. Once you both met eyes, he realized that you couldn’t look at him for more than ten seconds. Even though you tried to play it off, he noticed. He couldn’t help but stare at your hair too— he would’ve never guessed it was that long or healthy, it was pretty.

You were pretty.

And after the rehearsed vows, the rehearsed eye contact— fake smiles and the loveless kiss you both shared, you were now put in the middle of all the tables within the venue, music playing in background.

Despite your pleas, you were forced up with your husband, your arms now wrapped around his neck as his hands lazily rested on your hips. All you could do was sway, and looking into Gojo’s beautiful eyes, you were searching for something— anything. You couldn’t. No love. No hate. No interest.

“People are watching.”

You’d been so busy searching for something that wasn’t there, you didn’t realize he was speaking to you. You simply blink, adverting your attention back to Gojo. “Hm?”

He turns you away from the crowd slyly, peering down at you. “Might want to put a smile on that pretty face. Don’t want anyone thinkin’ we’re faking this, would we?”

He’s right, you didn’t even realize you hadn’t been smiling. Like you practiced. You let out a breath, forcing your eyes to squint— forcing the smile on your face, switching the flip on. Honestly, Gojo was impressed. Seeing it for himself, seeing how quickly you can put on an act, that’s a true skill.

You heard a cough within the hundreds of people watching, and you couldn’t help but turn back around and search for whoever it had been. Anyone could’ve been coughing— could’ve choked on their water. Swallowed their spit wrong. You wanted to see anyone else coughing but your mother.

And just to your luck, she began to stand, gripping onto your fathers arm with dear life. She had her hand over her mouth, shoulders hunching as she coughed into her palm quietly. Each step she took, she stumbled, there wasn’t much Sousuke could do to keep her up except hold her hand and waist.

You continued to dance, an arm around Gojo’s neck and a hand on his shoulder, gripping the material of his suit. He noticed, he noticed the demeanor change and the hold you had on him.

It took everything in you to look away, to look at your husband — not drawing attention to your mother and worry the many people in crowd.

Once your eyes met his, you saw a look on his face. The first emotion he’d ever shown you, the first time you could search and find something. It’s what you’ve been seeing from everyone else who knew about the situation. That stupid look you’ve seen too many times.

Pity.

For the rest of the ceremony, you were on your toes. As everyone began to eat and enjoy the food made by the talented caterers, you sat at your table, staring at the piece of cake you and Gojo sliced together.

During the slicing ceremony, he jabbed his pointer finger into the icing, popping it into his mouth with an exaggerated moan, giving the family what the wanted to see. Something domestic. You laughed with faux to his little stunt, and he returned the sarcasm by wiping some fresh icing onto your nose.

Disgustingly domestic.

Once you were both sat, he went off to talk to some of your family members— exchanging greetings and learning a little about the people who attended. You were alone at the table, waiting… just waiting for…

The door opened, revealing the same doctor who’d been taking care of your mother for years now. He doesn’t cause a scene, no one barely notices him— except for you. You noticed him, you knew why he was here, and you knew it was time.

Today’s the day.

You stood from your seat, fisting your veil and running towards the doctor. As if you were running away from all your problems. Running as if your mother was chasing you when you played tag. Running as if your mother was on her knees, arms wide open, waiting for you to jump into them.

The distance from your seat to the doctor at the door felt like you had been running for an hour, when it was only just a few seconds. For some reason, your chest had been tightening as if you just bodied those six miles. You were sweating as if you ran a marathon.

The doctor grabbed your hand once you were close and squeezed it softly before walking you out of the venue.

“She’s… lucid. It takes her very long to speak a sentence, every few minuets, her heart beats less than it had before. Despite all of that she’s…”

“Smiling,” You turned to look through the little window that exposed your mother’s condition. She looked like she did before her coma— before today. Quickly, you look back at the doctor. “She’s happy.”

Your doctor raises an eyebrow at you, confused at your statement. You simply chuckle, resting your shoulder against the door. “Her children are alive. Her son is strong and powerful. I’m married now… I have protection. It’s the only thing she’s cared about, and now she’s happy.”

“She’s happy where she is.”

The entire time you explained, your doctor felt his eyes water. He’s had a fair share of dying patients, but he’s been with you and your mother for some time— and you were right. She’s smiling despite her condition, she always smiled. Himari Shio and that god damn golden smile.

They tell doctors not to get attached to their patients, and he’s broken that rule.

“I think you should go in there now.”

You look from the window, to the doctor. You should. Do you want to? Of course not. Do you need to? Absolutely. You held onto the cold doorknob, sweaty palms now cooling down. You took a breath out.

“Thank you, Akito.” Your words were simple, but carried much emotion. If he wasn’t crying now, he was definitely going to start once you walked through that door.

And as soon as you entered the room, it felt warm. Like a sunny day. It smelled of linen and home. It was the opposite of what you walked into a few days ago. It was comforting for some sick and twisted reason.

Your eyes scanned over to your mother, watching her chest rise and fall slowly. Within seconds you were next to her, sat on the back of your legs, holding her warm hand.

Himari stirred, opening her eyes right at you. Her smile just grew, seeing you still in your wedding dress and makeup — seeing your hair fall down your back, and seeing those sad eyes glisten once they met hers.

“Had to take the spotlight, huh?”

She laughs weakly, collarbones going prominent when her chest fell. She didn’t have to speak, you could pick up on her answers without words. Her aura, her expressions, the grip on your hand— it answered everything.

After a while, your smile dropped, staring at your mother. Every breath you took in was shaky, and all those times you wanted cry, scream, ache and sob, it’s was bubbling up. And once your mother caught the ocean rising in your eyes, her face reeked of sympathy.

“Mommy.” Was all you could muster out before bursting. You blew, forehead dropping to her hand.

“Honey,” She scoots over in her bed slowly, tugging at your hand weakly to get you up. And you obliged, you took the space next to your mother like it was made for you. Like you were about to watch a movie with her. You buried your face into her neck, allowing yourself to cry.

You felt safe enough to do it.

“It’s going… to be just fine…” Himari sniffles, pressing a gentle kiss to your head. She turns to rest her arm on your waist and hold your hand with her other, keeping you snug next to her. “I’m gonna be with you…all the time.”

The sound of you breaking down into your neck made your mother feel sadness, but she wasn’t sad. She knew you were a strong woman— a woman who’d hold her own, no matter what. This was just a bump in the road, higher than any other bumps you’ve drove over. You’d just have to be careful. Know when to pump your breaks, know when to slow down, and when you’re ready to keep driving.

“My… strong baby.”

It hurt knowing that the only person who’d ever root for you, the only person who would defend you and encourage you, even if it’s your life on the line— was about to be gone. It hurt worse knowing that it was your mother.

“I don’t want you to go.” You cried, gripping onto the covers that was shielding your mother’s body. “You… we’re supposed to see me fight. And see me… possibly get my ass kicked.” You laughed through your sob.

Himari chuckles, coughing after. “I’ll see you…fight. I promise,” She feels herself breathing heavier, eyes now vignetting her vision. “You’ll win. …You’re the strongest.”

No matter how encouraging her words were, you couldn’t ignore the beeping slowing down on the monitor. It made you feel nauseous, like you’d hurl all over yourself and your mother. You tried to ignore the sound, replacing it with the sounds of a bell ringing on a bike; like yours when you were younger.

You’ll be fine,

Your mother mustered up all of her energy, squeezing you in her arms, another kiss pressing against your scalp. She smiles against your hair, eyes following the curls down your back and off the bed like a river. She loved the outdoors.

“I love you, Shio.”

You’ll be happy,

Himari looked around the room, and objects became items of the lake you both would sit by. The lamp was now a tree, shielding you both from the heavy sun. The lights were the rays escaping through the branches— and the two extra seats were now large rocks you’d sit on if you weren’t playing with the water.

And there you were, now laying in her lap, your little braid resting against your back as you napped. Her hand was on your head, running her nails through your scalp just how you enjoyed. Your little hands fisted her pajama pants, and there was just a little drool on her fabric.

Her eyes peered up to the sky. She could see the sun without it affecting her vision— looking right into the light. Himari has heard stories about the sun not really being orange, despite how they’d color it in children’s book. It’s white. She’s always wanted to be able to look at the sun without it affecting her vision.

She loved outdoors.

She’s always wanted her children to succeed, her son to be powerful— her daughter just as powerful. They were both so determined, so young and lucky. They were strong.

All of her dreams were coming true.

Today’s the day.

The occasional ring to your bells bike now stopped, and the only thing that could heard was the never ending sound of your mothers fate. The strong grip she had around you loosened, and the cheek rested against your head became heavier.

There was that scream you’d been wanting to bubble down.

©️RYUJNN: 01/02/2023. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.D. do not translate, plagiarize or remake any of my work! reposting my work is allowed — likes, reblogs & comments are appreciated.

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[delcakoo]

back off!↷*‧₊˚ p.sh

requested by nonnie, hope you’re okay :c

SUMMARY ! after wandering off at the grocery store, sunghoon is less than pleased to find some stranger trying to ask you out on a date. but no need to worry, he’s ready to put the guy in his place!

PAIRING ! sunghoon x fem!reader

WC ! 1.1k

GENRE ! fluff and crack ft jealous hoon

a/n: back to back posts whats going on ema?! well u see. i cant resist writing for my bf..

sunghoon knew going shopping with you was going to go one out of two ways.

option one, you’d somehow manipulate him into purchasing an armful of stuffed animals for your collection since — according to you — they were replacements for when he was away (which he was pretty offended about; how could those inanimate objects compare to the park sunghoon?), or option two, you’d find a way to escape his protective watch over you and wander off somewhere. 

update from sunghoon in the future: it was option two. or perhaps it’d be both, considering he was yet to find you.

sunghoon swore you did these things to him on purpose sometimes.

he was only distracted for a mere minute by all the different cereals on display, and yet you still somehow disappeared in those sixty seconds. “personally, i say we get rice krispies ‘cause i mean,” he scoffs as if it’s obvious, “let’s be real, you can never go wrong with rice krispies. and not those rip off chocolate ones! i mean the good ol’, classic regular ones. don’t you think—“

when sunghoon turns to give you a convincing perk of his lips, his face quickly drops in the realization that you’re nowhere to be found. “y/n..?” he finishes hesitantly.

with a stressed sigh, the boy quickly throws his rice krispies into your cart before pushing it onto the outside of the aisles, speed walking through the store while anxiously scanning each column for your bright purple winter coat.

yes, you may be a fully functioning person with a brain, but sunghoon highly preferred having you under his supervision at all times when it came to grocery shopping. who knew what strange goldfish flavor you were going to force him to buy, or what sale signs you were looking at, probably getting ready to say something like, “hoonie look, i can get twelve kitkat bars for only 15$! quite the bargain, huh?”

however, sunghoon quickly wishes it was the goldfish you were looking at, because the predicament he finds you in is much, much worse than any chocolate sale.

while your boyfriend was off having an inner debate over cereal like usual, you had gotten slightly distracted by a giant sign saying “buy two ice cream cartons, get one 50% now!”

who in their right mind would turn down a deal on ice cream? definitely not you!

you had eagerly waddled over to the ice cream aisle, smiling giddily at the thought of bringing back cartons of dessert for you and your boyfriend to share. just as you reach out to pull open the freezer door, a larger hand lands just on top of yours.

eyes widening, you whip your head over to meet eyes with a shockingly handsome stranger. he’s remarkably tall — though not as tall as sunghoon — you note.

when he looks down at you, he smiles in interest, quickly moving his hand off yours. “my apologies,mmiss.”

“oh, no worries.” you grin back, pulling open the fridge door for the both of you. as you begin to scan through the different flavors, the man’s voice interrupts you again.

“what’re you thinking of getting?” he inquires with a raise of his brow.

you glance back at him for a moment, pondering. “mm, maybe strawberry, i've actually never tried it before,” with your confession, you rub the back of your neck shyly.

the stranger gasps, looking at you offended. “what?! how have you never had strawberry ice cream?”

“i don’t know!” you defend with a giggle, “to be fair, i haven’t tried any flavor really— besides the basic chocolate and vanilla.”

the man reaches into the fridge to grab the strawberry ice cream — which was placed almost mockingly on the highest shelf possible — before handing it to you with a smirk. “if you want, i could take you out to try some other flavors?”

oh, was he trying to flirt with you this whole time?

guiltily, you quickly shake your head.” i’m sorry, you seem really nice, but i’m actually here with my— oof!”

before you know it, you’ve been pulled back into a sturdy embrace, the familiar smell of sunghoon surrounding you. his handsome face is slightly wrinkled due to a displeased frown, brows furrowed as he studies the man up and down. “hi hoon!” you say, beaming obliviously.

when he hears your voice, he looks down at you, fangs poking through his smile in adoration. “hi baby.” his smile vanishes as fast as it appears when he looks back up at the stranger in front of you. “and what do we have here?”

the man gulps, still awkwardly holding the carton of strawberry ice cream. “well- well i was actually just-“

“trying to ask my girlfriend out?”

“well technically yes, but i didn’t know that-“

“that your old navy sweater has a suspicious looking ketchup stain on the left sleeve?” sunghoon calls out condescendingly, “or that your hairline seems to be slightly receding, especially on the right side?”

your jaw drops, about to scold the boy before he continues, “y’know, before trying to ask someone out, especially someone who’s totally out of your league by the way, i’d start there.” with the final blow, sunghoon shrugs while pointing to the nearby clothes aisle, not before stealing the ice cream carton right out of the man’s arms.

as your boyfriend leads you away with a guiding hand on your back, you hear the man mutter an ‘asshole’ from behind you. sunghoon only snickers smugly, while you shake your head with a giggle.

“my big, strong, man!” you mock as soon as you’ve left the store with a teasing grin, “reclaiming his turf! marking his territory!” sunghoon blushes a bright red, looking away from you shyly. “asserting his dominance-“

“okay i get it, jagi,” he whines in embarrassment, shoving his hands deeper into his pockets.

you snicker in amusement, looking down at the strawberry ice cream in your grocery bag. “i mean, that was pretty good, i gotta admit. like— the hairline comment? did you learn that from niki?”

your boyfriend just sighs in defeat. “you’re never gonna live this down, are you?”

“nope!” you chirp, “but at least you look hot when you’re all protective.”

“just wait til’ you get jealous, i’m remembering this,” he mutters with a pout.

“whatever you say, love.”

it was safe to say that after today, sunghoon would never be complaining about your plushie or goldfish purchases ever again.

if you enjoyed, reblogs and comments are always appreciated and motivating!

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[bitsandbobsofwriting]

Alright, hi! :D

Sadly my exam didn't go well but it's the first (and hopefully last) that didn't go well so it's fine! Got down with something though which is why I only read half of part 2 on Thursday — which still improved my mood SO MUCH so really, I massively appreciate that you posted it that day, it's amazing! — and the latter half on Friday.

Now, being bed bound and just tired the entire day, I didn't write a comment yesterday but I knew I had to because all your stories actually deserve all the love and attention. And the good!Uther AU definitely is up there with the best. I have a thing for crack taken (somewhat) seriously and that was just mwah *chef's kiss*

I love the partnership of Morgana and Uther, how Uther is the one to come up with the plan and bring the team together but then still cringes at anything connected to physical attraction while making it a major part of their scheme. I love how quickly Merlin and Arthur just got it as soon as Uther, Morgana and Leon revealed themselves and Oh, How I Love Leon in this.

Leon is my absolute favorite in this. He's the counterbalance to Uther and Morgana to make this story feel realistic for how ridiculous it is. Without him, I don't think the story would have worked how it's now. He's the pinch of salt in a cake to make the flavor stand out while being opposite to the sweetness.

And he's just so deliciously uncomfortable with everything to the point I want to hug him but also laugh at him because the situation he found himself in entirely against his will is just so perfectly in line with the ridiculousness that is Camelot and his life (re: the poetry scene in particular).

Just... perfection

Anyway, staying on topic of Leon, I would like to give my vote for number 6 on the list “Another Warlock part 2", because I just love anyone developing magic and rightfully freaking out about it and Leon is just my favorite in your stories (in canon it's Gwaine and Merlin but in your writing it is most definitely Leon). I really wanna see how that plays out! But obviously no rush, you got other things to do and write and luckily my exams are over for now so I don't need any motivation (thanks again for that, I appreciate you SO MUCH for it)

I hope you have an amazing weekend and happy Easter! (if you're celebrating it)

-Jay 💖

(dw, calling me "Jansel" isn't wrong, it just feels strangely... formal? As if it's my last name although it's not)

(Referencing Uther Ships It, Part 1, Part 2)

Ah don't worry Jay! I'm really sick atm as well, so holing up in bed with my laptop is a nice way to pass time😅

I'm glad you liked it!! Crack is ok I suppose, but I generally prefer other stuff (angst with a happy ending/hurt+comfort, and pure fluff), so I'm glad my attempt at crack is being enjoyed :D

Also! If you like crack taken semi seriously, then hopefully #14 from This List will be up your street!! I've just finished editing it, and it'll be posted on 11/04/22!!

Morgana and Uther being chaotic together is a favourite underrated trope of mine!! Uther being fully aware of how manipulative and cunning Morgana is, and just letting her get away with it because he thinks it's amusing. And yeah! This is his kid they're talking about!! He's trying to get his emotionally constipated son dicked down!! That's not a fun thing to think about!! No matter how necessary it is!!

Leon is the only normal guy in Camelot and shit just... keeps happening. I think he's coping remarkably well, considering.

I also love Leon! I love writing him, love thinking about him, love looking at the gif of him kissing a horse that I have saved on my phone!

I normally do celebrate Easter (in an Atheist kinda way. I give in to capitalism and propaganda and buy chocolate, that's about it), but it's my partner's birthday Easter Weekend, so we're celebrating that instead!!

And I get you lol, it'd be like if someone called me BitsAndBobsOfWriting every time, I just refer to the blog as "Bits" in my head😅

Hope any future exams go well Jay!!

If anyone needs a pick me up/good motivation on a certain day (exams/interviews/first dates/family reunions/medical stuff, etc), let me know, and I'll see what I can get lined up!! Obviously I'll need a couple days notice, but I've got so many headcanon ideas I need to catch up on, I'm sure there's stuff I can churn out :D

~

ALSO!!! Like I said, #14 will be posted on the 11th, and I'm thinking of doing #39 next! Lemme know what y'all think!

[septembersghost]

girl people really thought he was selling the love of his life out for ice cream, I'm glad you SAID he was doing the same thing as "send her" with Lalo. don't we know by now?

😭😑 please i just gave myself a headache reading comments on tvline that were some of the worst takes...people believing that the scene with walt proved chuck was "right" (that was the opposite of the intent! that's why he was recalling those moments of regret!), proclaiming how jimmy would never confess or give up the seven years, not understanding anything about his dynamic with kim and saying he was manipulating her all over again...help

i saw someone bring up smoking the ricin cigarette, which isn't a thing (the ricin was in a vial! which we saw walt tape behind the outlet in the house! which he administered to lydia!), if we're still doing this nine years later, then i have to resign myself to the fact that unfortunately sometimes viewers don't quite get things.

it amuses me that it was mint chocolate chip, the ice cream he dropped when nacho rolled up to take him to lalo, that was consumed by the ants, the flavor he asked kim to leave off his sundae when they went to the hotel in 5x10. it wasn't about the ice cream, the shallow deal, it was about choices. what he did was that same impulse as the situation with lalo - use his reputation as a selfish coward to actually do something selflessly brave. for her.

art is subjective, fiction is open to interpretation, they even gave us a somewhat open ending that we can imagine going however we want, but some things are, in fact, concrete. jimmy's love for kim is one of them (and hers for him!!!), and it was a constant. betraying her was never an option he would take. the only thing tethering him to himself by that point WAS her, and he returned to himself for the both of them. to prove who he truly is. to prove he's not just the guy who manipulates and cuts corners. to prove he's that man she believed in, deserving of her love. kim's hands shake and he holds them steady because jimmy himself is now steady in his identity. their hands are clasped together and around the flame, the spark of color, that they have in their hearts for one another.

[beebubb]

Info dump of isaac grossman? 👉👈

Isaac Lee grossman info dump

He likes the dark and light academia aesthetics

He can be very short tempered depending with who he's with

He actually inherited all the money and the house his parents had. And when he went to the underworld, the rulers and Presidents could transfer it all to the underworld. So he still remains wealthy

He seems like the perfect man. He's wealthy, was really good looking when he was alive (still very attractive now), gentleman, protective, tall, etc. But his looks can be very deceiving

Even if he seems perfect, he can be very manipulative, arrogant, and very aggressive. Especially when he hates someone or when he doesn't get what he wants

He has a fear of insects and music boxes

He still likes pirates

He has a horse that he absolutely loves

He doesn't wear regular perfumes. He actually uses bergamot and lemon essential oils.

Even if he's a zombie/skeleton, he doesn't rot or smell bad. He actually has really good hygiene

Loves flowers. Especially ones that have fragrance. So sometimes he naturally smells like jasmine, lavender, or gardenia flowers sense he has a garden of his own

Even if he grew up rich, he had pretty plain foods when he was a kid. His parents usually gave him bread with milk, porridge, or just steamed potatoes with cauliflower with no seasoning besides salt. So he doesn't like to eat those things much, the only thing he still eats is vegetables but with actual seasoning and flavor. Also He upgraded his breakfast from porridge to tea and toast with jam or fruit parfaits

The flowers he has from his garden, he picks them for his love letters for his S/O or to give them as gifts.

He believes that each flower has meaning. So you can also tell what he thinks of you depending on the flowers he gives you

He doesn't like candy or sweets that much, the only sweet thing he likes is hot chocolate

He actually has a job. He works with the people that sell organs, all he does is open up the bodies and take out the organs.

Some would think that he wouldn't like the job sense he literally got his organs pulled out by LJ. But he actually enjoys it sense it reminds him of his first victim

He still makes furniture out of human bones (people have actually asked to buy them)

He likes to draw, especially flowers. He either uses just pencil, pen, oil pastels, or oil paint.

His style is kinda like this

But he also likes drawing human anatomy. Helps him better for his job

He is very intelligent academically

He can learn advanced math in literally an hour and understand every concept

But when it comes to technology, memes, and recent slang, he's a complete idiot

When will got a twitter notification, he literally spent hours looking for a bird

He always has a serious look on his face, but usually the ones that can make him smile is will and his S/O

He was upperclass when he was alive, he didn't have anything or anyone royalty related. But he always treats his S/O like royalty and expects others to do so

His family always taught him to have good table manners and respect everyone. But for isaac he only shows respect and manners to the ones he thinks deserves it

So when he's with his S/O he's delicate, has a nice quiet tone, eats with his elbows off the tables, etc. And he also expect others to do the same

So if someone does something inappropriate infront of his S/O, he will be pissed off for the rest of the night

He likes giving his S/O fine thin gold jewlery like these. He sees these as more elegant

He can actually take on and off his bone hand.

"Can you please give me my goddamned hand back?!"

He can be very direct and rude

He only spends time with LJ because he's will's friend. If it were for him, he would have taken will away

He tolerates LJ a bit but still gets very annoyed at him

"Can you laugh any louder?!?"

LJ makes a lot of organ puns (yall know why) and isaac hates it

It's pretty hard to make him cry

[cutegirlmayra]

I know you did a prompt a while ago about Amy having a fan and Sonic told him to basically get lost. So could you do something like that but make the guy feel more entitled to Amy and she owes him her love. And when she rejects him he gets really aggressive so it justifies Sonic being more aggressive in turn? I love how your depict protective Sonic soooo cute!

So, I have MANY jealous and protective Sonamy stories XD Shifting through them, I think you meant this one? (x) For future reference, if any of you lovely Anons want to maybe just... link?... the actual prompt I would be very much appreciative since I have over 900+ lol

(Preview prompt image provided by ArtsyAnnieRose (x) Please support the artist :)b)

As I mentioned when reviewing this Prompt on my youtube --> Pajama Blogs Ep. 1 Prompt Requests (x) Timecode: - 54:21 - I try and not do the same prompt twice, which means I like to rewrite things so that I don’t just keep making the same stories for different requests. So with this one, I’ve thought a lot about how to present it, and I think this will be fun! (Also, side note: I’m not making this cute and parody-like, I’ve changed my mind XD I have the right to do that! lol)

***TRIGGER WARNING***: (now you know it’s gonna get good.) I have subtly littered red flags throughout this story, if you have experienced stalking or manipulation strategies in your life please be aware they will be showing up in this fic. Due to the subtle nature of these traits, please be informed that I am in no way trying to downplay the danger of these situations, but showing that to the main character currently in these situations, her view of them is naïve and she sees no danger. Therefore, the gravity of the situation seems friendly and kind, but in no form am I saying these techniques are alright or acceptable. The ‘stranger’ character in this story is a creep, no matter how ‘charming’ or ‘sweet’ he may be portrayed in the innocent main character’s view. (If I write this correctly, hopefully, that message will be more clearer towards the end of the story.) I encourage any who recognize these toxic behaviors to please question your relationship with that individual and find safe, healthy relationships to pursue/keep instead. Whether your relationship with these kinds of people are platonic, friendship, or romantic in nature--please keep yourselves, families, friends, and other such loved ones safe. I will not be listing or detailing all occurrences of these moments within the story; however, with some psychology basics or google searching, you can find these common red flags or complexed manipulation strategies and how to better identify them.

Prompts are on shutdown! Do not send in any prompt requests at this time. Thank you!

Okay... let’s dive right in.

                                                 DIVE, DIVE, DIVE.

Note: This is another unconventional, more mature-themed story that I- well...

But my hope is that it’s still a story worth telling, so if you choose to, please enjoy.

Prompt:

Upon a rather dark and greying sky, as though the mentions of brief rainfall and storm weren’t apparent, many citizens in this bustling city were making their usual rounds around the mall. Carrying a thin jacket with an umbrella’s strap swinging at her side, Amy light-heartedly mused over a recent magazine’s article on the most eligible men, and read the chatty writer’s remarks on how Sonic The Hedgehog seemed to be away when the interviews for them were called.

She thought that so like Sonic, always away, but secretly just close enough to still keep tabs on what’s going on with the many locations in the world.

Eggman seemed to have a base everywhere, and while things had been pretty quiet as of late, she looked up from her magazine and once again wondered where in the wide, blue world he could be.

Was he bored? Off on another adventure? ... Napping? Eating? Was he eating enough?

She sighed with a dreamy look on her face, lost in her thoughts before a stranger flicked his wrist as he approached her, and a charging wind blasted in her direction. Blowing her back, it swiftly hit against her loosely closed umbrella, since Amy wanted to be prepared for any sudden downpour, and triggered it’s spring to further yank her back.

“Ah!” Amy tried to turn around to catch herself, the strap around her wrist forcing the sudden about-face as she grabbed her umbrella’s long steel pole to try and counter the pull.

“Woah!” the stranger that was passing her from the front suddenly stumbled at the sight and quickly rushed behind her, leaning over and grabbing where her hand was on the open umbrella as the wind suddenly stopped. His hand lingered by her side as though to brace with her and help, before noticing the wind stop and looking dumbfounded at the umbrella.

There was a silence as Amy felt the stranger was almost holding her, and turned to him with blinks, “Heh-heh... umm... Thank you.” her body was bent as she tried to use her heels against the pavement to counter-force the sudden rush of heavy wind, but with it’s immediate halt, she stepped forward and away from the strange, intimate moment to close her umbrella.

He stood more straighter, fixing himself up too before smiling kindly to her, “Does this happen to you often? Sudden, emmmm...” He swirled his palm-facing upwards hands around as he held the long, hummed note. “Bursts of photo-aesthetic air through your hair?”

Amy chuckled lightly, briefly looking back at him before continuing to fix her umbrella, worried it may be broken as the spring wasn’t going down well enough. Realizing it was probably jammed, she blew up some air to her bangs, figuring the worst, “Yeah, real convenient for a photoshoot. Maybe the photographer will settle for a water effect?” she gestured humorously up to the clouds, “All I need is a chair,” she teased, “Thanks again for the help. Really! You came out of nowhere!”

“Much like wind.” He joked back, putting his hands in his pockets, tilting his head to her. “You... wouldn’t mind if I take in the view of that shot, would you?”

“Huh?” she didn’t quite understand what he was making reference to.

He smiled as if realizing she didn’t get it and shook his head, “Nothing, nevermind. I’m clearly wasting your time,” he took out his own umbrella, looked at her a moment, then back to it. His long, brown and heavy jacket then flopped back to his side as he offered her it, “No offense, but I did just meet you. I would offer you my umbrella, but I’m worried I may never see it again. However, I have a solution,” He opened the umbrella and then gestured his hand to a restaurant near him. “So that we’re not strangers anymore, and I can trust you with something so dearly precious to me as an old, fifty cent umbrella I literally picked up from a second-hand store... might I entreat you to a meal?”

Amy smiled, relieved he was being so gentlemanly. “I wouldn’t mind at all!” she cheerily perked up, looking at her umbrella and tossing it in a garbage can. “I’m Amy,” She took his hand, curtseying. “Amy Rose.”

She did notice he was probably older than her, but he did a little bow and she realized she hadn’t notice his real height until his eyes matched her level. He held his eyes with her sights... and she wondered why he was pausing so long, “I know...” He finally whispered out, tilting his umbrella over her head, “You’re pretty famous, you know. Anyone would be lucky to help you out in a pinch. I’m Oscar, I work around here.”

Guiding her into the outdoor restaurant, he sat her at one of the white tables with it’s own umbrella on it and closed his, settling down on the opposite side of her. “Well, then! Do you mind this spot?”

“Oh, it’s my favorite, actually!” Amy chimed, knowing the location very well.

“Really?” He seemed a little less intrigued at that than Amy would have normally supposed someone would, but then after putting his umbrella away, leaned forward as though very attentive and putting his fingers together, his elbows on the wooden round table of white and letting his nose press down against his hands. He had gotten comfortable, and Amy, thinking this was his way of showing interest in what she meant, continued to sweetly respond.

“This is so funny, but I come here almost every Thursday and Friday for the new deals at my favorite store! I usually order the same thing too,... I really love ice cream.” Amy felt a strange new energy at meeting someone for the first time, and continued to feel refresh at this new-found friendship.

“Ice cream? No way! That’s my favorite too!” Oscar parted his fingers as though excited to hear this. “I have a sweet tooth. I know, I know, so silly of a man like me.”

“Oh, no! Not at all!” Amy waved her hands out, “What’s your favorite kind?”

“Well,...” He thought a moment, before smiling back to her and holding a wink, “I have an idea, you tell me yours first. I bet it’s probably very different.”

“I’m a simple girl, Vanilla is mostly my cup of tea. But... whenever I’m feeling adventurous, I go for it! Scoops of Vanilla and Chocolate with some random new flavor of mint or cookie flavored and then I top it with all sorts of stuff!”

He coughed as though shocked, “...That’s literally my favorite too!”

“What!?” Amy was excited to hear this, “I thought I was the only one that eccentric!”

“I know! That’s why I thought your answer would be completely different!” As Oscar continued to review Amy’s interests, he kept nodding along and reaffirming that they shared many similar interest and hobbies before the waiter appeared. “I love to chase certain thrills and excitements. I’m sure, being an adventurer, I figured that may be the reason why you place yourself in such perilous circumstances as well.”

“Your orders, lady? Sir?” The waiter asked, trying to kindly cut in as Oscar pulled out his wallet.

“Strawberry sunday with a hint of vanilla, you?” he looked back to her.

“Ha! That’s my Thursday order!” she giggled into her hand, “Same here, please!”

He shook his head, a little theatrically, “It’s almost like... where have you been all my life?”

“I mean, I know, right!? And you work around here! That’s so weird that I’ve never seen you before... where-”

“Ah, there’s really nothing interesting about me. I’m much more fascinated in the adventures you take. What with your friends always weighing you down and everything.” He basically ignored the waiter as he tried to ask any follow-up questions, and Amy just looked between the two and then smiled politely to the waiter, showing that that was all they were going to have.

“Weighing me down..? Oh no, without Sonic and the others, I couldn’t do anything as big as saving the world! We all need each other, you know?” She happily confirmed before he spoke again, sighing.

“I guess they would have you think that way, huh?” a offhanded comment that made Amy’s eyebrows furrow, but she just continued to speak about the wonderful traits and abilities of her friends, in which case, he kept shaking his head as though she was wrong.

“What?” She finally asked, “You don’t seem to like Sonic, Tails, or Knuckles...”

“I just think you could do with some different friends.” He shrugged, “Some that wouldn’t constantly leave you behind or undergrade your merit.” In that moment, the waiter came back to place down their orders.

“U-undergrade..?” She looked down a moment, “N-no, no one’s holding me back or anything. I choose how I help out, I can’t always keep up with Sonic and the others so-” she stopped a second and shook her head, getting frustrated, “I-I mean, I can go with them whenever I want!” she retorted, and noticing her shift in demeanor, he took some ice cream and then held out his hand.

“Oh no, no, no. I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to imply you couldn’t keep up. I meant that you’re invaluable and they don’t treat you as such. But don’t worry, I’m here now, and I’ll show you how a true heroine should be treated. This meal is on me.” he gestured to her ice cream, “After this, I’ll show you some places that you probably haven’t been to before.”

“O-oh... T-That does sounds exciting!”

For a few weeks after that, Amy began to hang out with Oscar frequently. They would text back and forth, and she couldn’t help but smile when he always called her beautiful and made her feel so special. However, although the places they first went to weren’t so bad... he started showing her back alleyways with clubs and other ‘themed’ places that made her slightly uneasy.

She knew he was older than her, but would decline any invitation if he stated, “But I know a guy, he’ll let you in.” and continued to protest and remind him of her age.

That being said, the parks were lovely though!

He would often bring her little gifts and flowers too, stating that the next time she came with him, he’d bring some home-made food and had a habit of patting her head or brushing something off her hair if it landed on her. Though, Amy never noticed the ‘leaf’ that had fallen on her shoulder, or the ‘bug’ that was buzzing around her headband.

He also would usually lead her when they walked and talked, if they came to a corner, he would lightly put his hand to her back, until one time she mentioned his hand went just slightly lower than normal and he apologized profusely.

All was going very well, he even carried her bags and offered to take them home with her, but she insisted she would take the train and that he needn’t worry.

Finally, on a Friday when she was heading down for her sale, texting Oscar, a familiar wind picked up and almost brought up her dress.

“Oh, look out!” Oscar appeared and grabbed her dress, pushing it down. “Phew! Close one, aye?”

“W-where did you come from?” Amy adjusted her dress as he held his hands to the rim of her dress still, but when she looked up at him, he immediately released them.

“I suppose I just naturally come when you need me.” he scratched the back of his head, looking away as though shy. “I don’t know... sometimes, I can’t sit still, I get this feeling like you need me, and lo and behold!” He gestured to her, “You really do need someone looking after you twenty-four seven, huh?” he squatted down to look up at her, then his face turned to concern. “It’s a shame you don’t have anyone to look after you... especially in moments like this.”

“W-what are you talking about? I have Sonic!” Amy placed her Miles-Electric away and gestured for him to stand upright, but instead, he took her hands and placed them on his cheeks, acting cute but a lot younger than he actually was.

“But he didn’t save you, I did~” he whined, squishing her hands to his cheeks and rotating them around as she thought him slightly weird and took them away, pushing him back as he stumbled. “H-hey!”

“Oh, you! Sonic is just the same way! He can’t sit still when he senses someone needs him... hey, that reminds me of my article...” Amy remembered the magazine she was subscribed too, and looked over to see that within his usual trench coat, was a page of that article sticking out. “Ah!” She pointed to it, amazed, “You read ‘Famous Quips’ too!?!”

“Doesn’t everyone?” he seemed to speak quickly, before shoving the magazine back in deeper. “Ehem, kinda a girlie magazine... promise not to tell anyone? I don’t wanna lose my street-cred!”

She laughed, “You are like Sonic! Always acting so cool...” she shook her head and took his arm, what she had started doing since he offered it so many times, and they walked down the street.

He bought anything her eye rested on, which made her beg him to at least let her pay for food, as he mentioned a concert happening at the club he kept trying to get her to go to.

“Come on, you’ll love this band! We adore the same music too! I know a perfect spot in the back where no one will see us and the bouncer is my friend!” his voice was enthusiastic, nudging her every now and then with his elbow as she looked away and rolled her eyes. “You’re not a babe anymore, Amy! You’re gonna end up going to clubs eventually, might as well be with someone you know, right?”

“I don’t know...” Amy looked down,... and he gently stopped walking to look away from her.

“...Do you not trust me?”

“W-what?” Amy let go of his arm, “What do you mean? Of course I do!” she was very hurt by his accusation, “I mean, we’ve hung out so much, I just don’t really think clubbing is my thing...”

“You never want to do what I suggest.” He looked down, “I go to your favorite store with you and help you bargain hunt, I take you around the park... I’m just saying, the one time I want to go and do something, you keep saying no.” he folded his arms, and Amy began to panic that he was really offended by her.

“T-that’s not true, Oscar! I...” she looked away a moment, and he looked back at her.

“...Ah, I can’t stay mad at you.” He pulled her into a hug, holding her there. He took a deep breath, “I’m sorry, hey, let’s go get ice cream and talk about it later, okay? I’ll pay again.”

Her eyes shifted about, not sure what that was all about. “N-no, I’ll pay.” she tried to move away but kept an arm around her and led her on.

“I wouldn’t be considered a man if I let the woman pay!” he insisted, and ended up paying for the meal.

As it got late, he offered to carry her bags home again, and whined in a goofy way when she kept saying it was too late to have guests over, but maybe sometime.

“If you won’t see the concert with me, at least take me to your place sometime. It’s the least you could do for me.” He gave her the bags, then stroked her hair again, “You really shouldn’t be taking the train at night, you never know what sicko might be on it. You’re tough, Amy dear, but you’re still a girl and you know how you’re prone to cause problems.” he laughed, but that stung Amy’s pride a bit.

She held her bags and looked away a moment, “...Is that... how I come off to people?”

“Oh sure!” he then continued to stroke her head, “...You ... didn’t notice?”

“...That I look weak?” Amy shook her head and he instinctively removed his hand.

He held it in the air a moment, before letting it rest on Amy’s head again, as though realizing she wasn’t doing that to make him stop.

“No... the part where I... gave you a new nickname.” He smiled, tenderly and squatted down to her level again, keeping his hand on her head. “Amy dear. I think it’s cute!”

“...O-oh, I mean, I don’t really like how it could appear though.” Amy had a bead of sweat form and he abruptly got up, looking upset.

“Don’t like how it could appear!? What does that mean!?” He snapped.

She flinched at his sudden uproar, as he grabbed a bag from her, “I’ve been wanting to introduce the nickname to you all day! And that’s how you think about it!?” he looked as though he was going to either smash or rip the bag, but just looked furiously away from her, “I thought about it a lot, you know! It was suppose to mean something!”

Amy grew slightly afraid, but not taking this sudden mood-swing again, she opened her mouth to say something.

He interjected and looked dead in her face, “You really don’t trust me, do you, Amy?”

Thinking she didn’t want to hurt him, she shook her head, “I-I never said that!”

“Don’t yell at me,” he looked downhearted suddenly, even though she wasn’t raising her voice that much, not like he was.

“I’m not-”

“You are, and it’s really making me feel like you’re just... you don’t consider me a friend. I told you people usually reject me,... I was vulnerable to you!”

“Oscar, calm down a moment and-”

“You’re the one who’s not ‘calming down’ you can’t do a single thing I want to do! You’re being... selfish!” he flopped the bag down in front of her, startling her as he took off stomps and a hissy-fit.

Not able to process that sudden shift in behavior, Amy was lost to her thoughts and... slowly... proceeded to get the bag and head to the train station.

Numerous texts came flooding in that week as she hadn’t gone back to the plaza and mall, and she kept wondering how he knew she wasn’t there. They had hung out multiple times, maybe he was just expecting another hang out without actually asking this time...

Still, she felt somewhat obliged to text back: Sorry, I’ll see you Friday. This Thursday, I just felt sick.

Oscar: Do you need anything? Send me your address, I’ll bring you medicine and make you some food! I really am sorry if I scared you, I shouldn’t have done that. You’re beautiful and I’m just insecure. You know how I can be, just like you, I get really attached to people and just want to be accepted. I’m really sorry, please don’t not see me again! I promise I’ll get myself under control, we’ll do whatever you want to do this time! Honest!

Amy didn’t text back...

Oscar: The concert is next Friday, I won’t mention it again but... it would be really awesome if we could see Pop Pinkies together... I know it’s my favorite band and our favorite music is what they play so... just think about it at least, alright?

That Friday, Amy was wearing something that made her almost blend in with the crowd. Unlike her usual bubbly skip in the streets, she was hiding beneath her umbrella and coat, as though not wanting to be spotted.

A sudden burst of wind and she panicked, darting behind a corner and putting her umbrella away. “Dumb wind.” she mumbled, looking around to make sure Oscar wasn’t there...

The wind suddenly shifted as she poked her head out, “That’s odd, wind doesn’t usually change direction unless...” she turned and gasped as she saw Sonic, leaning his head towards her and looking confused.

“...Since when did you start taking the back-alley ways? Don’t you know that’s dangerous, Amy?” He blinked, furrowing his brow as he straightened up and folded his arms, “Heh, long time no-”

Amy’s mind was suddenly triggered by something Oscar had said, and she tuned out Sonic completely, her world going dark...

“I just think you could do with some different friends. Some that wouldn’t constantly leave you behind or undergrade your merit.”

“You’re tough, Amy dear, but you’re still a girl and you know how you’re prone to cause problems.“

“Is that... really how I appear to you?” Amy’s voice quaked as she spoke it, “Do I really look weak... even to you?”

Sonic was taken aback by the tears forming in her eyes, and immediately dropped the friendly banter, “Amy? What’s wrong? Weak?” he didn’t know where she got that notion from. “N-no, I-... Amy, is something wrong?” he moved forward to reach for her but pulled away, something Amy wasn’t used to as she really did--for a brief moment--think he was going to place his hand on her head.

Almost as if expecting that, she leaned her head in a strange way and then back, not sure why she did that.

He didn’t notice the action though, but she hugged herself, also remembering that after the light head pats was usually a strong and forceful embrace...

“...Amy?” she hadn’t responded to him, and now, Sonic was noticing a very clear change in Amy.

“N-no, of course you wouldn’t think that... I’m sorry, I really don’t... I don’t want to be around people right now.” she looked away, “I... I made someone feel really bad and I don’t know what to do.”

“Really? What did you do?” Sonic lifted his hand and she immediately looked at it, which made him pause. “...Umm... I was just gesturing... Amy...” His ears bent back, not sure why she looked so squarely at his hand. “Is everything okay?”

She really thought he was offering her hand, but she didn’t want to take it... not this time.

“I made a new friend, and he’s mad at me. I’m worried... if I hurt him again, he’ll really be in a bad emotional state, and it’ll be all my fault.” Amy put her umbrella up and started to walk away from Sonic, “I want to take a new route, I didn’t even want to come out today...”

“...Amy, you don’t control this new friend’s behavior, they do.” Sonic corrected her and walked beside her, focusing heavily on the signs of uncomfortability Amy was showing. “...What happened with this ‘new friend’ of yours?” He directly asked, and Amy relayed to him how she met him, then how he liked all the things she liked and agreed with everything in the beginning, how charming he was before the more time she spent with him, he seemed to change and start acting funny... but not in the good way.

“...He likes everything you like?” Sonic lowered his head a little, honing in on some things Amy briefly mentioned.

“Yeah, isn’t that crazy? He’s a guy but he totally loves sweet things and a popular girl’s magazine I enjoy.” Amy smiled, closing her eyes as though cheering up when thinking about it.

“...And he knew your order before you even made it?” Sonic folded his arms, putting two and two together.

“Yeah...” Amy suddenly slowed down in her steps, her eyes widening.

Sonic closed his eyes, matching her speed as he began to help her focus on the more important parts of her story, “And this... strange wind that passes by here... only comes at you and blows your dress up or opens your umbrella?”

She stopped.

He continued to walk, “And you say he works around here... which means he may have seen you come and go multiple times... and probably watched you ordered and heard what you liked, and saw what you read, and knew about you from the news and press... he disliked your friends and took you places and then entitled himself to being in charge over your Thursday and Friday venues... then, to really top it all off with the icing on the cake and all that jazz... he’s been insisting you go to a adult-themed club with him and throws a tissy-fit when you say no?”

Sonic stopped, his fists had already tightened into such hard balls of fury that he had to take silent deep breaths just to contain himself.

“And worst of all... he’s tried to copy me and put it in your mind that your friends don’t respect you the way we should... isolating you,” He put out a finger, “Grooming and manipulating you... Amy, you should have written this guy the moment he snapped at you... and probably sooner, but I’ll take that as you were just seeing the best sides of him... and not the dirty kind.” he didn’t turn around, but he felt Amy lingering behind him and knew if he said anymore, she may just start crying. “...Where do you think this creep is now?”

“He... He’s not a creep.” Amy lied, feeling in her heart that she just did lie, for Oscar’s sake...

Sonic tsk’ed and turned around, “How can you stand there and defend him!? Do you even know what Grooming is!?”

“...I... I don’t.” she wiped her eyes, “I don’t think I know anything...”

The manipulation had really set in on Amy, she was denying something she knew was true and didn’t know why. She was defending a man who clearly was up to no good, and yet... she cared about him still.

“Sonic... I think... I think I’m sick.” she held her stomach, the realization setting in. “You don’t think... he wanted me to take him to my house to..?”

“He wanted to what!?” Sonic lunged forward, holding his fists back and to his sides as he tried to remain level-headed, pulling away from her. “Amy, you know the truth now, it’s time to end this... ‘friendship’ you two have.”

Amy fell to her knees, “That’ll kill him!”

Sonic immediately looked behind him, Amy almost begging him not to make her do it as Sonic couldn’t stand to see her this broken and twisted up from Oscar’s scheming.

“Amy...” he wanted to say so many things..! But instead, just turned around and held a strong look, “You have to face this... but you won’t be alone.” He offered her his hand, “I won’t leave your side, and I’ll be there the whole way through. You deserve to go out and have fun without someone telling you that it can only be ‘their’ way of fun.” He looked so serious... but she felt a peace wash over her at how she knew his words were never lies or deceits for something devious. His words were for her and her well-being... not once did Sonic ever yell or enforce his way about things at all. He listened to her, even though she knew he must be raging inside at his friend’s predicament... it’s not like she purposefully got herself into this mess.

“You know how you’re prone to cause problems.“

She placed her hands up against her eyes, crying. “Am I... being a burden to my friends, Sonic?”

He immediately scooped her up into a bridal-style hold, “Which store did you want to visit today, Amy? Or do you want to just go home?”

“Please, I want to go home.” Amy held onto him as without a second word, he zoomed off.

The next few days, Sonic instructed that Amy block the number, but text messages seemed to not be the only thing Oscar knew... He called her home number, which surprised both of them, and the phone never stopped ringing.

That next Thursday, Sonic accompanied Amy everywhere she went, and they didn’t spot Oscar anywhere. But come that Friday...

Sonic was carrying some of Amy’s bags, she didn’t look fully recovered from anything, but at least she was wearing brighter colors in her coat she wore that day, and a nice sun hat as Sonic held the umbrella up for her.

He looked a little bored, but kept his eyes peeled when a sudden wind shoved him to the pavement.

“Ah! Sonic!” Amy turned around but was immediately grabbed around the waist, pulled back. “Gah!”

“I can’t believe you let him back into your life!!!”

Amy’s ears rang with Oscar’s voice, before shoving him back and falling down beside Sonic, who quickly shook off the wind blast and spun around to pick up Amy’s things, placing the bags by the store’s window.

“So, this is the wind-manipulator, eh?” Sonic rotated his shoulder out, having landed on it pretty roughly, “Look, I don’t know anything about you, and neither does Amy, really! So either get the hint and quit bothering Amy, or I’ll have to take matters into my own hands!” he hunkered down, getting ready for a fight, but... he also seemed not to be putting on airs or a show.

Sonic... although smiling a bit as he spoke to him, suddenly took a darker and more focused attention on how Oscar was holding himself.

Oscar looked to Amy, not even talking to Sonic, “I told you everything about me... What does that lying Sonic know about you!? I’m the one that’s been with you this whole time while he’s been off, probably with some other girl!”

Amy thought that ridiculous, and seeing him in a new light, she was able to at last come to fact with this pervert in front of her. “You... you were never my friend... were you, Oscar?”

He bit his teeth down, “Is that what he made you think?!”

“No, that’s what he made he realize!” She threw up her hammer and blasted wind at her.

She was forced to slide against the concrete, “I don’t mean to hurt you, Amy dear!” he cried out, “We’ll settle this when he isn’t around!”

“I think you’ve got it backwards, Oz!” Sonic, seeing that his hands controlled the wind, kicked it away from Amy’s direction and then spun in a rotation within the air to punch him down.

He stumbled, as though not used to physical fighting and tumbled all the way over into the street.

“I’ve known Amy much longer and deeper than you have! You’re just some creep who takes advantage of little girls!” Sonic’s fists was shaking, clearly, he didn’t want to just leave it at one blow. “Amy, get behind me!” He gestured out his hand and Amy immediately got up and moved behind him.

“I can... I think I can fight him!” She tried to state, but Sonic looked behind his shoulder and she put her head down. “I... I want to but...”

“...You still care about me, don’t you, Amy dear?”

“Quit calling me that!” Amy threw her arms down, “You used me! You weren’t my friend! I can’t believe I trusted you!”

Sonic turned to the man, “Why are you even answering him, Amy? He’s not talking to you, he’s talking to some Amy Dear girl he’s been building in his mind. You were never anything to him... it was the girl he was crafting that he was interested in.” Sonic slowly walked towards him as the man started to scoot back, clearly not able to fight Sonic The Hedgehog.

“Let’s play a new game...” Sonic suddenly lifted up a device, “Is your real name Warner Windstrom? You’ve got a bounty on your head that the cops are just dying to claim...” he pressed the button as suddenly an alarm went out, and from around the corners, police vehicles blocked his way of escape. “Oh, and that club? A typical place where your old ‘hostages’ claimed they were drugged. Trust me, pal, I’ll personally make sure you don’t get out of jail again.” Sonic let the police start moving in but Warner immediately shoved air beneath him and flew into the sky, shocking everyone as Sonic held up a arm over his eyes and moved back to Amy, shielding her as well.

She was in shock, that kind man she knew was suddenly a criminal and had previously hurt and abused other women... She didn’t know Sonic set this all up, but she probably wouldn’t have let him if she had known.

“I thought we were just gonna talk to him!” she cried out, putting her hand on his shoulder before shaking her head, “I’m defending him again... aren’t I?”

“Amy shouldn’t be with a loser like you, Sonic!” Warner cried out, “You can’t always save her! You can’t always be around to-!”

Before he could finish, a hammer slammed into his gut.

“Nice one, Amy.” Sonic complimented, as Amy stood up beside him.

She didn’t say anything, but judging from the neutral expression... and tears streaming down her eyes...

He just looked back at Warner, “I know this is a lot to take in... but trust me on this one... You’ll be alright.”

Amy summoned another hammer, “Want to give me a lift?”

“Certainly.” Sonic spun into a ball that lifted him up into the wind, then uncurled to reach out for Amy as she jumped, “Hit him hard!” he encouraged as he threw her up the rest of the length.

She pushed her dress down as he extended his arms to her, “Amy, please! You know me! I love-!”

She just growled and let out a piercing war-cry, slamming her hammer down on his face, “I’m not your friend, I’m not your anything, buzz off!!!!”

He slammed to the ground, and as the wind ceased, Sonic landed and caught her immediately, and the two watched as the police immediately took him.

He kept trying to call out to Amy but she didn’t say anything back, just ducking her head into Sonic’s shoulder.

Sonic’s eyes never left Warner’s face... but leaving the scattered bags around, he took her to the park near by and sat her down.

He waited there... as Amy was just frozen in her thoughts... unable to speak.

After some time, she got up and walked to stand beside him, “What about the bags?”

“Not concerned.” Sonic stated, then looked back to her, “You okay?”

“No,” Amy admitted, “You were right. It’s gonna take time... but I wish it would all just go away now.” she placed her hands on the side of her arms, “How... how did you know? When I was telling you about him... how did you know he was no good?”

Sonic tilted his head back and forth, then tapped his head. “When you’ve been around the block a few times... helping justice here and there... you learn a thing or two about red flags, Amy... you don’t have a lot of dating experience--or just knowing bad dudes are like that--in general! I don’t blame you... but I do think that you should be careful who your friends are.”

She scooted closer to him... then tilted her head to his shoulder.

“..Can you help me get better?”

“No,” he lightly tilted his head to hers, “But I can be with you while you figure it out.”

There was a long moment of silence as they held that comforting moment...

“Will I ever be me again?” she asked, her voice cracking slightly.

“...No,” He responded, tenderly, as though a whisper as he looked up at the rain being to slowly drop all around them. “But I can be with you as you learn to accept her.”

Amy closed her eyes, feeling the small drops of rain before it all at once, speedily came down on them.

“...Will you still love me? At the end of it all?”

Silence...

“I already do.”

Rain scattered as Sonic held his eyes straight up into the clouds... the storm in his heart subsiding as Amy cried and her shoulder’s bounced beside him.

[ak8shi]

FWB HQ Boys: In which you beat the player at his own game!

warnings: mentions of sex (all characters are 18+),,,, feelings

a/n: I couldn’t stop thinking about they boys falling in l*ve after having a reputation,,, the flavor. Also I wanted to dip my feet into nsfw themes, just to try it out and see how I feel!! I chose the boys who I thought would be able to realistically have a fwb relationship w/ someone as well for this series!

━Akaashi Keiji

This guy,,do not underestimate him, honestly I would not be surprised if he was already fucking around in high school

He’s extremely attractive, sporty, and is very good at dealing with people in a way that can almost be?? manipulative?? Whether he means to be or not

As an adolescent boy, he kind of always put his own feelings first and didn’t think of the feelings of the girls he was talking to or hooking up with

Afterall he’s outwardly extremely respectful but in actuality he gets what he wants from girls and that’s that

Girl,,, college isn’t any different if not worse…

SO,, you received an email from your public relations professor, stating that your assigned partner for your final presentation is Akaashi Keiji excuse me whomst

The next day you come to class, ready to meet this Akaashi dude and discuss the details of your project

You look around the classroom as people begin to confer with their partners, and then you see this beautiful boy with jet-black hair sitting near the back of the room

Shyly, you go up to him and ask if his name is Akaashi

He smiles at you and says yes,, oh no he’s HOT

The whole time you’re talking you feel nervous and you can feel your face turning red, the way he’s staring at you is NOT helping

He’s actually very smart and contributes to brainstorming for the project, you’re thankful that you got a partner who can pull their own weight for once

You decide to meet at his apartment after agreeing on a topic to outline for your project

You can’t lie, you’re excited, I mean he’s attractive and seems nice!! It could possibly turn into something right??

You find yourself sitting on his couch the next weekend, sipping from a mug of hot chocolate that he made for the two of you during your study break

Over the past week your crush on him developed fast, and it kind of scared you

He’s sitting next to you and while you’re laughing about something together, he moves his hand to rest on your knee you’re already simping hard

You expect him to move it away eventually, but he doesn’t

You can’t bring yourself to stop him as he moves his hand up your thigh, caressing your skin carefully

He leans over you, asking if this is okay before his mouth is catching yours in a feverish kiss

Before you know it, you’re laying in Akaashi’s bed listening to the sound of the shower running in the next room over

You internally groan, realizing how much you liked him and the situation you were now put in

After all, you had to work with him until the end of the semester ??? And you couldn’t be fucking all the time if you wanted to actually pass the class

Once he gets out of the shower, he literally acts so nonchalant,,,

Akaashi: So are you okay with us fucking regularly like this

You: oh you <3 so sweet

So as the semester progresses, you work with Akaashi on your project to fuck

The sex is so good, you really can’t complain; however one night when he pulls up in his car to pick you up,, you notice something off about his usual appearance

HE HAS HICKIES UP AND DOWN HIS NECK

You try not to judge or to look hurt…but he really made no effort to cover it LMFAO

You: so did you get attacked by an octopus

Him: why are you like this

You guess you didn’t consider the fact that you weren’t exclusive, and the marks on his neck kind of burst your bubble

That night, as you work on your project, he can’t help but notice how off you are, so he asks you what’s wrong

You simply brush it off, telling him you’re just tired and he leaves you alone after that

In retrospect, you know that you shouldn’t expect more from him and that ultimately you would end up hurt

You feel like a clown for thinking a guy like him would only fuck around with you

So you decide that you will not be hooking up with him anymore for the sake of your grade and your feelings

He doesn’t really mention the fact that you aren’t having sex anymore because he doesn’t want to make it awkward since you have to work together on your PR project, but he doesn’t know where he went wrong? Was it bad? Did he say something?

The deadline for your project approaches quickly, and you are almost finished with it

You try to go about your schedule normally, but it’s hard to ignore the way Akaashi looks at you and you can’t seem to shake the memory of how good he is in bed whew

Akaashi on the other hand tries talking to other girls like usual, but he’s convinced that something is wrong with him because he doesn’t feel the usual excitement he feels when talking to someone new

They’re just… boring to him truthfully

He finds himself in his bed, thinking about your smile and the stupid jokes you leave on the shared google doc for your project

He DEFINITELY knows something is up when he can only jerk off and finish when he thinks about you UH-OH

As the two of you are practicing giving the actual speech and practicing what to say, he is is literally so soft seeing you giggle when you mess up, and he’s swooning at the way you go to cover yourself mouth when you smile he literally misses his lines multiple times because he’s distracted

It’s finally the day to present your project, and you both nail the presentation !

You watch the other projects from your spot next to Akaashi, and he feels really sad for some reason??? Like he realizes he’s not going to see you every week anymore :(

The period ends, and you go to pack up your bag; his heart literally sinks and he finally realizes that he might have genuine feelings for you

You turn to him, giving him a small smile

You: I’ll see you around Keiji :)

Him: no

He literally stands up and crushes you in the warmest, most back-crushing hug and presses a quick kiss to your cheek

You’re taken back like holy shit what is happening?? It’s so out of character for him

He tells you that he wants you to check the google doc after you get home, and then he’s rushing out of the lecture hall with flushed cheeks to get to his next class

????

??your heart?? Can not handle this???

You literally rush home, still flustered, to open your laptop, and open up the doc

On the top line of the page, it says: hi, so I kind of really like you… I know we didn’t get off on the right foot, but I promise that I’ll do better. Be my gf? -Keiji

You, typing out your response laying on the kitchen floor because you’ve BEEN head over heels for this man: ok..I guess <3

Akaashi gets a notif on his phone that you’re editing the document, and he sits in his communications class with the fattest smile across his face staring at your response

[write-orflight]

Trouble: Chapter 2

*Gif not mine*

Pairings: HotchxReader

Prologue  Chapter 1

Rating: M

Words: 3K

Warnings: Basic witch stuff, angst, mentions of child birth, mentions of near death

Request: OPEN/CLOSED

Summary: After Haley’s passing, Aaron Hotchner has lost the light in his eyes. He seems to find it it the most unlikely of places, an occult themed coffee shop ran by a witch.

A.N: Tarot, wicca, and crystal information is very secondhand if you see any inaccuracies, no you don’t. If you are a witch tho and want to help and be nice to me enter my ask box please, I’m annoying my friend too much.

Chapter 2: God, don't let me lose my mind

The deeper into autumn you got the more busy the shop was. 

Halloween was a big money grabber for your shop. People loved to come to the shop around that time because your shop offered such ‘spooky’ feel, as the hipster who came in that morning would say. You hated that. Halloween was one of your favorite holidays simply because the veil between the natural and supernatural was so thin it was the best time for spells and charms but what you didn’t like was people and baby witches asking you about certain spells or how to commune with spirits just so they can do something “extra spooky” for whatever parties they were having for the season. Consultations were such easy money though so you’d never turn them away but your answer was always the same, that Spirits are not toys and that if they are going to invite them it better be serious and for the right intentions otherwise they might not leave. 

Despite it being your favorite season, It didn’t make you less annoyed. 

“If I have to make another Pumpkin flavored whatever and tell a sorority girl not to invoke a demon in her house, I’m going to scream.” Silena says to you as you enter the shop, Artemis in tow. Your sitter had to take an exam so you had to watch her for the first 2 hours of your shift. Artie, knowing the drill by now, tries to crawl up to the bar stool. You watch her for a second, smiling her little legs before taking pity on her and hoisting her up. She immediately pulls a coloring book and crayons out her bag, before working diligently in silence. You kiss her temple before walking behind the counter, tying your apron on. 

“You had another consultation today?” You asked.  

“Pfft, it wasn’t even that. She asked me while ordering her coffee, though I should’ve charged her for that dumbass question.” You look at her pointed, nodding your head towards your child who repeats everything. Silly winces “Sorry, but still. If this is how halloween is going to be, you’re probably going to have to do some balancing spells.” 

You rolled your eyes. “Exactly what I need, more work.” 

“What’s a dumbass?” Artie pipes up from her perch on the stool. 

“Something you are not and shouldn’t repeat unless you want your mom mad at me.” Silly says, reaching across the counter to ruffle her hair. 

The doorbell of the shop rings and the very man who’s occupied your mind these past couple of months steps in. Aaron Hotchner was one of your favorite customers despite not talking very much, he’d make small talk while you made his order which you found yourself doing slower than it would normally take you, just to get a little bit more of his time, he’d leave a tip in the jar and be on his way always leaving you with a small smile that you always immediately returned with a wide one. You tried to stop yourself from getting attached but here you were, an adult woman who had a crush on a customer who probably didn’t think about you when he left the shop. 

You’d never seen him on a weekend though and frankly you didn’t know if you could handle seeing him like this again, he wore dark blue jeans, a black belt and a black t-shirt that fit a little too well over his broad chest you couldn’t help but staring at his arms that you’d never seen on display like this. You knew for a fact(well you hoped at least) he’d have no issue picking you up or pinning you down. 

Now’s not the time, y/n… you think. 

“Hey, you.” You greet, flirtatiously. You’ve been trying not to flirt with him, you really were but sometimes you couldn’t help it. It was your personality. “Didn’t think I’d see you in here. On a weekend, no less.” 

“Yea, decided to stop for coffee before heading to my sister in law’s. Can I have my usual and an Americano for her?” He asks 

“You got it.” You wink before starting to work. Silly gives you a knowing look which you brush off. Hotch takes a seat at the bar a few seats away from your daughter who looks up at him. 

“Hi!” She says excitedly. “I’m Artie.” 

“Hi Artie, I’m Aaron.” He looks around. “Are your parents around?” You look up. You’d forgotten to mention you had a kid to Hotch, which would probably explain his confusion of a random child sitting alone. 

“My mama’s right there, silly.” She laughs. “Mama?” She says you look up automatically from the milk you’re frothing. 

“Yes, bean?” You say. 

“Can I have a brownie?”  

“Well, I don’t know. Did you finish the addition tables I asked you to do?” She shakes her head at you. “Well, how about you do that then we’ll see if it’s brownie time, deal?” She nods, fast while pulling her math homework out of her bag. Hotch watches the interaction confused but with a slight smile. 

“I didn’t know you had a kid.” He says 

“There’s a lot you don’t know about me, Gus.” You say, calling him by the nickname you affectionately gave him your first meeting. “But yes I do, that’s Artemis.” 

He nods, knowingly. “How old?” 

“Well, I don’t know. How old are you, bean?” You say. 

“I’m six!” She says, holding up 5 fingers, you grab her other hand to extend her other index finger too so the number was actually 6. 

“Really? You’re not 16 yet?” Silly asks, ruffling her hair. “I thought you were driving us home tonight?” 

Artie shakes her head. “Mama says I can’t drive yet.” 

“Between you and me kid, your mama shouldn’t be on the road either.” You swat at her. 

Aaron gives a small chuckle at the display in front of him. But he has to ask the burning question in his head. “Her dad—“ 

“Not in the picture.” You cut off. “Like not even in the same gallery.” 

Hotch nods understandably as you put his drinks in the carrier for him. He looks at you confused when you add a 3rd cup. 

“Hot chocolate.” You say. “For your son. I imagine that’s where you’re going. To pick him up from your sister?”  

“How did you know I had a son?” He asks. 

“Oh, I just used one of my witchy spells to find out information on you.” You say jokingly, but he looks at you with mild horror. “I’m kidding, Spencer told me.” 

He nods. “Thank you, y/n.” 

“No problem, come back to see me?” 

“Always.” He says, offering you a small secret smile before leaving. You can’t help the dreamy look you give his retreating back. 

“Are you coming back to earth anytime soon?” Sil says, shaking her head. “You got it bad, kid.” 

“Pfft, no I don’t.” You say turning to clean up the mess you just made. 

“I don’t understand why you just won’t ask him out.” 

“He’s healing, Sil.” You say, shrugging. “And I don’t want to push him into something he’s obviously not ready for.” 

Not to mention you also didn’t think you were ready for it. 

———————————————

On Halloween day, you get a visit from one of your favorite customers 

“Pennywise!” You say to chipper blonde women who strolled in she was wearing a orange and black dress with little jack-O-lantern earrings that you had gotten her the beginning of month. You move your hair back to show her the Ouija board pointer earrings she had gotten you in return. Penelope Garcia couldn’t just accept a gift without giving one in return. 

“Hey Y/N, how are you this ole hallow’s eve?”

“It’s Halloween and a full moon tonight.” You say excitedly. “It’s like witch Christmas.” 

“I don’t know about that but I am happy for you. Can I have a pumpkin spice latte and since I’m such a good friend an Americano with extra sugar for the good doctor?” She asks. 

“You got it, Pen.” You say before starting her order. “Heading into work now?” 

“Sure am! Hopefully there’s not a gruesome murder so I’ll be able to spend my Halloween having fun.” Penelope says. “You got any plans?” 

“Other than taking Artie Trick or Treating and charging some crystals in the full moon, no.” 

“Come on, no wild parties? no hexing beautiful men into falling in love with you?” Penny asks. You laugh loudly, shaking your head. “Man, maybe the life of a witch was more exciting in my head.” 

“Yea, you did.” You laugh. “I’m basically just a cool rock collector plus love spells, so not my thing.” 

“So there’s such a thing?” 

“Yea there’s love spells. I don’t believe in using them. I think love itself is it’s own powerful being. It shouldn’t be manipulated with, if someone was meant to love me they would.” 

“Speaking of love and love spells…” Silena pipes up from the display case she was loading pastries she just made into. “Penelope, how’s your boss?” You glare over at her. 

“Hotch?” Penny asks looking between the two of you before smirking at you. “Why do you want to know?” 

“I don’t.” You say at the same time as Silena says. “She has a Texas sized crush on him.” 

Garcia practically squeals at that. “Let me set you up please.” 

“No, Penny.” You say, immediately 

“Why not?” Her and Silly say at the same time. 

“Because… I don’t know didn’t his wife just die months ago, it’s hardly appropriate for me to try swoop in.” 

“Ex-wife. They were already long divorced before she died.” Penelope adds 

“Still! It’s not appropriate.” You say. 

“So what? You’re just going to keep making him free coffee until he realizes you're into him?” 

“Yup” you say adding the 3rd cup to Garcia’s carrier. “Give that to Grumpy for me please.” Garcia opens her mouth to say something but you just hold up your hand cutting her off 

“Fine.” She says, grabbing the carrier. “Only because I have to go to work though, this conversation isn’t over.”  

“Yes it is.” You call after her. 

——————————————

You were back in the shop. Artie was tuckered out after a long night of trick or treating and crashing from her sugar high so you decided to charge some of your crystals and do some balancing spells, knowing for a fact a lot of teenagers did stupid shit to upset the balance. 

As you were lighting the candles and incense, you heard a knock at the door. You were long closed so who could possibly need something right now? You look out the window and Aaron is standing there. You’re confused but you let him in anyway. 

“Hey Grumpy, what’re you doing here?” 

“I’m sorry I didn’t know you were closed, I guess I’ve never been here at night. I’ll go. I'm sorry for bothering you.” He says turns to go but you grab his arm to stop him. 

“Gus… it’s almost midnight, no business is open. You’re here because there’s obviously something upsetting you so I’m not just going to let you leave.” You all but push him into barstool. “Now like I said it’s almost midnight so there is something important I need to do so if you’ll sit tight for like 2 minutes, I’ll make us coffee.” 

Hotch obliges, sitting silently watching you as you lit some candles on the altar you kept in the shop. You placed the honey cake you had made earlier in the day on the altar before whispering. 

“Thank you to the patron, Artemis, Great goddess of Moon and Magic. Mistress of deer and owl. Be thou my guide and Inspiration. Teach me Thy mysteries and lead me in thy ways.” You stand and turn back to Hotch who is watching you intensely. “Sorry about that, midnight is her favorite time. Coffee?” You ask, He nods as you move behind the counter. 

“Can I ask what it is you just did?” Hotch ask. 

“That?” He nods. “It’s a full moon so since Artemis is my patron goddess, it’s best to leave a sacrifice to stay in her favor.” You shrug. He looks at you like you're crazy but you're used to that look. “Don’t look at me like that, it’s no different then some catholic practices. In fact, Christians often stole from pagan practices, and only one is just considered ‘taboo’ now.” 

“Is that why you named your child Artemis, because she’s your Patron?” He asks. 

“Actually, Artemis is my Patron because of Artie.” You say, he looks at you as if asking you to continue. “I wasn’t always like this.” You say gesturing to yourself and the shop. “My parents are pastors and for a long time I was this faith devout christian girl. But I got pregnant out of wedlock, my parents disowned me and I was looking for something to turn to. I met Silena and she introduced me to Wicca, and said whoever my Patron was through meditation and study, They’ll reveal themselves to me. So I went months, meditating daily, and still nothing was working. Then I went into labor, and everything was going wrong. I thought, this was my punishment from god for not only getting pregnant without marriage but turning to witchcraft. I had to have an emergency C-section. And when I was on the operating table, I almost died, Artie almost died. I started to see these images of deer and boar running through the forest. And finally when I came back to, and I could hear my baby crying, the first thing I saw when my eyes opened was the full moon out the window.” You sigh, sliding a cup to Hotch before moving from behind the counter to take a seat next to him. “That’s when I realized the goddess had saved me and my child. And while Artemis prefers virgin patronage, and that ship had long sailed past back then. I figured naming my child after her was the next best thing.”  

“That’s a beautiful story, Y/N.” He says, looking at you sincerely.   

“Thank you, and since you’re not running for the hills, why don’t you tell me why you really knocked at my door at midnight.” 

“It’s just…” He starts, clearing his throat. “Tonight was the first ‘major’ holiday without Haley. And I tried to take Jack’s mind off it, make it fun but it was like this looming weight above us. That it wasn’t the same without her and that it never would be. And I was upset and just wanted to take a walk but I guess my feet carried me here.” He shrugged. 

“Well I’m glad you’re here grumpy. And you’re healing you need to give yourself time--” 

“I don’t have time!” He snaps. You flinch back a bit, having never heard his raised voice. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to yell. It’s just-I don’t have time to heal. I have to be there for Jack.”

“Who’s there for you, Aaron?” You ask. He looks at you confused. You hardly ever call him by his name. It's either grumpy or gus or a combination of the two. Never by his actual name, he hated how much he liked how it sounded coming from your lips. “Do you know what a rock tumbler is?” you ask, he shakes his head confused where you’re going with this. You run behind the counter to retrieve the box you had dug through the very first night you met.

“Well a rock tumbler is a device you put rocks into. Rocks that have eroded, rocks that have trekked the earth, rocks that have been to hell and back. And what you do is you put them in this device with a little bit of water and you wait. Days, weeks, months all the while this device is just spinning, you don’t see what’s happening on the inside but after a while, when the time is right, you get these beautiful lustrous stones.” You say, showing him the box. “Healing is the same way, others don’t see you working. But in the end, they’ll see the result. And you’ll feel the result too. But if you don’t take that step you don’t end up with gems like these. You just end up with an eroded dingy rock.” You look up at Hotch and he’s tearing up slightly. Your heart melts. “Do you want a hug?” you say. 

“You don’t have to--” 

You cut him off. “No one on earth gives hugs because they have to. I want to give you a hug if you want one. So do you want a hug?” 

He nods, fastly. So you stand, he follows suit and allows you to pull him down into a full embrace. Your arms around his neck and shoulders, he envelopes you fully into his torso, arms tight around your waist. You sigh, content. Before shaking yourself out of it. This wasn’t about you. No matter how right it felt. 

After a minute or so you break apart. You look him in the eyes and he’s staring back at you in what feels like admiration. You clear your throat. “Can I give you something?” you ask.

“Is it another crystal?” He asked back. 

“Yes, it is.” You rummage through the box before pulling out the one you needed. “This is Aragonite, it’s good for healing old wounds and building emotional strength. Now I can gift you this but you have to activate it yourself. Even if you don’t believe it, I feel like it’s good words to hear yourself say anyway.” You grab his left hand, sliding the crystal into it. He looks into your eyes. “Now say, I release past wounds and embrace resilience.” 

Hotch sighs. “I release past wounds and embrace resilience.” He then slides the stone in his pocket. Before grabbing your hand again. “Thank you, Y/N” 

“Anytime, Grumpy.” You say.  

Taglist: @megatrexus @roses-and-grasses​ @tittymuncher69​ @liaabsurd​ @ladyravenclaw​ @genevievedarcygrangerreading​ @softbibxtch​ @xxdisappearwithoutatracexx​

[pearl-pilots-in-chains]

Ice Cream Expertise (All the Little Lights #1)

Fandom: Neon Genesis Evangelion

Ships: Kawoshin

Rating: G

Summary: Shinji is faced with a dilemma of sorts, and is characteristically indecisive. Fortunately, Kaworu is there to give some helpful advice. Or maybe just call himself an ice cream expert. Let's be honest, it's a bit of both.

Notes: This is intended to be the start to All the Little Lights, my attempt at a relatively happy Evangelion high school AU featuring the pilots we know (and maybe love) actually getting to live a normal life (including all the cute gay romance they deserve). That said, it also works totally fine as a one shot. Considering it's an AU, there's going to be some rather interesting deviations from canon, some of which are alluded to here. So, if something seems off, that's probably because it is.

As usual, any errors, grammatical or typographical, are mine. I apologize in advance.

This was originally posted to my old AO3 on May 21, 2020. I hope you enjoy it!

_________________________________________________________

Shinji Ikari was not having a good day. No, perhaps that was an understatement. He was having a distinctly bad day. School had been tedious to say the least, considering that testing week was approaching, and the teachers seemed to be doing their best to “prepare” the students using every form of academic torture known to humankind. Okay, perhaps that was a bit of an exaggeration, but it had been a hectic hell all the same. Not to mention the fact that his best friend Touji was going through a rough patch (not the first one, mind you), with his girlfriend Hikari, which led to a tense mood within their friend group outside of class as well. Adding onto this was the fact that he was getting worried about his sister (what wasn’t new?) Rei, who had been especially quiet the past week or so, even by her standards. That was usually a sign that her depression was going through a rough spot. He had wanted to mention something to his mother about it, considering she usually had better luck at getting through to Rei than he did when his sister was going through a difficult time, but unsurprisingly, he hadn’t gotten around to it yet. He was gone too often, and his mother was gone too often. There was all of a one to two hour period when they were both home and awake on any given night. Rei always ending up alone probably doesn’t help her state of mind improve either. I wish she had more friends. People she could connect with.

And, of course, to top all that wonderful baggage off, he had had work after school, which had gone lovely. Just lovely. A simply wonderful group of customers had come in, and stayed for a better part of three hours, ordering intermittently while they all talked (way too loudly, in his opinion) at their shared table, which, in a predictable move, they hadn’t even bothered to clean off. He was a barista, not a waiter, despite what some people seemed to think. To make matters worse, they had been laughing so hard partway through their “discussion,” that one of the party had practically flung her iced latte through the air by accident (how someone could do that by accident, was a whole other topic for conversation), sending its contents flying halfway across the room (in a bafflingly impressive display, he had to admit, as irritating as it was). Of course, he had drawn the short straw and been the one tasked with cleaning it up. His boss seemed to get a special satisfaction out of giving Shinji all the “fun,” jobs. Okay, maybe Mr. Anno’s not that bad, but he still gets a kick out of watching me suffer. Or something like that.

Shinji sighed as he pulled his car into the store parking spot. As he exited it, he glanced down at his phone. 7:16. That meant he should have enough time to get home and get dinner going before his mother got home. These days, it seemed as though she worked progressively later and later. It had been a couple months since she’d been home before 8. She was almost certainly still out at the base at that moment. Whatever project she’s working on now is one of the more intensive ones.

He headed for the doors. He was planning on making stir fry, which meant that he needed to get soy sauce for sure, since he knew they had run out from the last time. He thought they had most of the rest of what he needed at home. So, this should be a quick run. Just in and out. After a day like today though, he was tempted to grab something sweet. Come on, after this whole mess, I think I at least half deserve something to take my mind off of it. Just a little.

Inside, he made a bee line for the condiments aisle. Alright, first things first. Get what I need. Then, maybe, I’ll just check out what they have. He grabbed soy sauce, and then wavered for a moment, trying to decide just for what he was in the mood. Okay, just something little. Nothing too big. I am going to be cooking, after all. Hmmm . . . I mean, it’s probably not the best idea, but . . .

Making his decision, he set off for the frozen section. Once again, he paused when he arrived at the aisle, looking through the glass freezer doors at the available options. I’ll just get a pint. That should be more than enough. Even if Rei goes for some too. ‘Cause mom hardly ever eats anything sweet, so I doubt she’ll have any. He tilted his head, tapping the soy sauce bottle against his thigh as he considered the selection. Why are there so many flavors? I didn’t even realize they sold Pumpkin outside of November. And Lime-Raspberry? What would that even taste like? Who comes up with these things? I’ll go for something classic. I could always do Vanilla. But, that’s a little boring. I don’t even really like it that much. Chocolate’s always classic, except that Rei doesn’t like it. And her favorite is Cookie Dough, which I don’t like the texture of . . . there are way too many choices here. Running his eyes over the racks, he did a quick count. Forty-two different flavors. Why are there forty-two different flavors? I wonder if anyone’s ever tried them all. Then again, that might take a while. And be kind of pricey. Dammit, I’m getting distracted again. The only conclusion that Shinji was coming to was the fact that he liked ice cream far too much, and was wasting far more time than he should be trying to pick out something. Maybe I should just get the soy sauce and head home. He peaked down at his phone. 7:29. Yeah, I’ve already been here longer than I should be.

A voice interrupted Shinji’s thoughts. “So, what’s your drug of choice?”

Shinji head snapped to the side, his concentration broken. “What?,” He asked, a little surprised.

The source of the interruption was standing a little further down the aisle, casually leaning on one of the freezer windows, his head cocked to the side, watching Shinji with a friendly smile on his face. Shinji thought the interrupter looked to be about the same age as him, though that fact was complicated slightly by the fact that though his face was youthful, his hair was an ashen grey. He must dye it. Is grey hair a style though? The interrupting individual sported a pair of black jeans and a band shirt for a group whose name looked vaguely familiar to Shinji. Porcupine Tree . . . I feel like Rei might listen to them. Maybe. Not to mention the fact that the newcomer had red eyes. Red eyes. Okay, so maybe this is a look he’s going for. I mean, those are definitely contacts, right? Unless there’s a genetic mutation I’ve never heard of, I don’t think humans can be born with red eyes. Which means that they’re contacts. Which means that the hair is almost definitely dyed too. I’m pretty sure that’s not what ‘scene’ looks like . . . there’d be brighter colors . . . and I don’t think it’s emo either . . . I’m pretty sure his hair would be black then . . . huh . . . maybe that’s goth. Yeah. Let’s go with that. In addition to making him second guess what scene fashion looked like, Shinji’s visual analysis of the interrupter also led him to a more definite conclusion. That regardless of what category his fashion fell under, he was pretty cute. Seriously Shinji, focus here, and stop thinking about how some random boy in Safeway who asked you what type of drugs you like is cute. Don’t be an idiot. Sure, you haven’t been on a date in months, ever since Martin broke up with you, but he was a manipulative jerk anyway— Shinji realized the interrupter had started talking again, which snapped him back into reality and out of his wandering mind.

“Yeah. What flavor is your favorite. I mean, out of the forty-two, there has to be one you’d pick, right?”

“Oh. Yeah. Probably cookies ’n’ cream,” Shinji answered, feeling more than a bit confused. On an afterthought, he added, “You’ve counted all the flavors too?”

“Not a bad choice,” the boy said with a firm nod. “Although, I’m more into mint chocolate chip myself. And yes, I’ve counted them all. It’s an important part to being an ice cream expert. Keeping track of the available flavors at the nearest store.”

“Okaayyy.” Shinji’s tone betrayed his uncertainty concerning just how he should deal with this stranger. “Ice cream expert?”

“Yep, that would be me,” the boy replied matter-of-factly, as though the question was a pointless one. He strolled over to Shinji and extended his hand. “Kaworu Akagi, ice cream expert, at your service.”

Shinji shook the offered hand, deciding he should be polite, despite the fact that his perplexity had not been substantially diminished in any way. This guy is . . . interesting, to say the least. As their hands met, Shinji was struck by the strange, but intense, sense that this wasn’t his first time meeting Kaworu.

“Shinji Ikari.” Against his better judgement, he decided to follow his introduction with, “Have we met before?”

Retracting his hand, Kaworu pursed his lips, ostensibly mulling over the question in his mind. After a few moments, he shook his head. “I don’t think so. At least, not that I can recall. I just got into town a few days ago. Why do you ask?”

Shinji shrugged, trying to play off his earlier question. “Oh, I think you just reminded me of someone I used to know.”

Kaworu nodded, seeming to accept this answer. “Ah, that makes sense. So, have you come to a conclusion, or would you like a second opinion?”

Shinji raised an eyebrow. “About the ice cream, you mean?”

“Indeed. That is the topic on the floor, as they say,” Kaworu responded nonchalantly.

Shinji blinked. “Who says?”

“Why, they do of course.”

“Oh. Umm, alright.” Shinji looked back through the window, surveying his options once more. A obvious choice didn’t present itself. “Well . . . I suppose a second opinion probably wouldn’t hurt.”

“Great,” Kaworu stated, his tone even and pleasant. “Any occasion in particular you’re buying for?”

Shinji shook his head. “Nope, not really. Just . . .” he hesitated, uncertain how much he wanted to tell someone who was still basically a stranger to him. “Just a bad day,” was what he ended up deciding on.

Kaworu pretended to stroke nonexistent hairs on his chin, nodding slowly as did so, in an amusing imitation of the stereotypical philosopher. “Hmm . . . ice cream for a bad day, you say?”

“Uh. Yeah. I guess so.”

“I’d have to recommend Cherry Chip for that. It’s a guaranteed mood improver from my experience. It is nearly impossible to feel down while you’re eating Cherry Chip ice cream.”

“Really?” Shinji’s ice wandered down the display, finally locating the flavor in question. Fortunately, they had it in pint size, which meant that the option was on the table. He couldn’t think of any reason not to go for it. As far as he knew, Rei liked Cherry Chip. At least, he thought she did. He wasn’t entirely sure that he’d ever seen her eat it. For that matter, he wasn’t entirely sure that he’d ever eaten it himself. Which means it might be pretty good, and I just don’t know it yet. You never know. “Really. Trust me, I’ve tested its potency. It won’t let you down.”

“Alright. Why not?” Shinji opened the door and grabbed a pint of Cherry Chip. He examined the container in his hands for a few seconds, before looking back up at Kaworu, who now seemed to be smiling in encouragement, which had the effect of making him look even cuter than before. Come on Shinji, don’t get distracted! Sure, he might be attractive, but he’s also a self-proclaimed ice cream expert. . . not sure whether that’s a good or a bad thing yet, to be honest.

“That’ll do the job,” Kaworu remarked, in a straightforward tone that made it sound as though he was utterly confident in the truth of his words.

“I’ll take your word for it.” Shinji furrowed his brow as another question popped into his mind. “Hey .. . you said you just got into town a few days ago. How is it that you already know all the different flavors they have here?”

“It was one of the first things I scoped out after we got into town. Always important to know what kind of ice cream game you’re going to be dealing with. Plus, I had plenty of free time once we finished unpacking, considering I won’t be in school up here until the fall.”

“Ah, okay. That makes sense.” Almost on a whim, Shinji was tempted to ask Kaworu where he had moved from, but decided that could come across as prying a little too much, since Kaworu hadn’t offered that information. As it was, Kaworu gave a partial answer to the question without Shinji even verbalizing it.

“School down south ends earlier. Though, to be fair, it also starts earlier there as well. We left a couple days after my semester ended. Which means I currently have relatively few obligations, other than locating and obtaining a job for the summer.”

“Oh. Yeah.” Shinji still wasn’t exactly sure how to respond, but he decided to field a question of his own. He figured it could come across as a polite inquiry, rather than being nosy, taking into account what Kaworu had just revealed. “So, what brought you up north?”

“My mother got transferred out to the base,” Kaworu returned offhandedly.

Shinji tilted his head in response to this answer, the gears in his brain turning. Well, that’s interesting. He almost wanted to make some sort of follow-up remark expressing their similarity in that regard, but he decided that might be a bit too much to say for the moment. Instead, he merely offered a casually, “I gotcha.” He continued with an amiable, “Well, welcome to Asherdale,” along with a more ironic, “It’s halfway decent, once you get used to it.”

Kaworu’s face broken into a grin at the humor, an expression that Shinji couldn’t help but feel made him look all the more attractive. Oops, getting distracted again. . . don’t do that . . . too much.

“Thanks, I appreciate it,” Kaworu said warmly.

“No problem.” The thought suddenly entering his mind, Shinji shot a momentary glance down at his phone. Hmm, what time is it? The answer was 7:37. 7:37?! I’ve been talking for eight minutes?! That felt like four or five at the most. I have to bail, now, if I’m going to make it home in time to get cooking.

He looked back up at Kaworu, who was still watching him, his gaze soft, the smile still on his face, his head tilted to the side. Shinji had the strange feeling that if it had been anyone else, the observational pose the boy had struck would have looked unusual, to say the least, but somehow, on Kaworu, it didn’t look half bad. It gives him a kind of elegant aesthetic . . . okay, where did I come up with that? I definitely need to head out.

“Hey, look, I’m sorry to leave so quick, but I need to get going.” Shinji cringed a little internally, hearing the awkward tone in his voice. You could have said that in a way that didn’t basically announced the fact that it made you flustered. Great going.

“Understandable. You wouldn’t want that ice cream to melt before you get the chance to test out its powers.”

“Haha, yeah, you know it.”

Kaworu nodded, imply that yes, he did indeed know it. “Why don’t I give you my number?” He remarked. “That way, you’ll have someone on hand for any future ice cream dilemmas.”

“Ahhh . . .” Okay, that was actually kind of smooth, in an odd way. And . . . it’s not like it could really hurt anything. I mean, he didn’t even ask for my number. Which means he’s not even necessarily flirting with me. It’d probably be a bit of stretch to say he is. After all, if I have his number, and he doesn’t have mine, that means I can choose whether I want to text him or not, and there’s nothing he can do about it. Which isn’t really a good way to flirt with somebody. I think I’m stalling again here . . .”

Shinji noticed Kaworu was watching him again, waiting for a response. “Sure. Sounds like a good plan.” He pulled out his phone and hastily created a new contact, before offering it to Kaworu. “Here, you can put it in.”

Kaworu nodded, his smile remaining intact, and typed in the digits, before handing it back to Shinji. “It was nice to meet you, Shinji Ikari,” he commented affably.

“You can just call me Shinji,” Shinji quickly responded.

“Alright then. It was nice to meet you Shinji.”

“You too . . .” Should I use first and last name like he did the first time? Or just go with first name. I don’t want to offend him, if that’s the sort of thing that’s important to him. After all, he does seem a bit, umm, particular.

“You can just call me Kaworu,” the boy suggested, his smile widening.

“It was nice to meet you Kaworu,” he finished lamely. “Guess I’ll see you around.”

“Yes, maybe so.”

Shinji nodded again, spun on his heels, and promptly made for the registers. Well, that went excellently. You meet a boy who’s kind of cute, even if he is a little eccentric, and straight off the bat, you’re second guessing yourself and fumbling for words. Fantastic.

Shinji shot a brief glance back as he reached the end of the aisle, to see that Kaworu was now retrieving an ice cream carton of his own from the merchandise freezer. Shinji turned away again before the boy could look back in his direction. Don’t want him to think I’m staring at him or something.

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

Shinji collapsed back onto his bed with a satisfied sigh. He was glad to have finally reach it, after the nigh-interminable day. Well, maybe not quite interminable. But definitely overlong. Without much thought, he grabbed his phone from his nightstand and spun in about in his hands a couple times, feeling the sensation of the textured case against his skin.

Dinner had been a success, such as it could be, anyway. He had impressed himself with just how fast he managed to throw things together when he went into slight (well, maybe more than slight) panic mode.

The ice cream had been a success as well. He had to admit, Cherry Chip was a pretty good flavor. He still wasn’t sure whether he had tried it before or not, but he was glad he had definitively tried it now. Rei had also enjoyed it, which was an added plus. In fact, their mother had even had a bowl, something altogether unexpected. Apparently, Cherry Chip ice cream was one of the sweets she would indulge in. Didn’t see that coming. All in all, the majority of the pint was no more.

Powering on his phone, Shinji was faced with another choice for the evening. Unlike his earlier ice cream deliberation, however, this cerebration was of a cursory duration. After a few seconds, he had composed the text, and was hovering over the send button. Alright. Let’s do this. He tapped the icon.

Shinji I.: Thanks for the recommendation. It was a good choice! Lol. This is Shinji, btw.

The response to his message came swiftly. Wow, he must type fast.

Kaworu A.: Happy to be of service. I’m glad it worked out.

Shinji found a smile edging its way across his lips. Maybe, in spite of everything, today wasn’t such a bad day after all.

[aethelflaedladyofmercia]

Absence of Words (Sawdust of Words 12)

At very long last, we have a new "Sawdust of Words" story!

Absence of Words, 13.5k, rated G.

London Sunday after the Apocalypse

They've survived an attempted Armageddon and near-executions, confessed their feelings, and now Aziraphale and Crowley are ready to spend the rest of eternity together.

But thousands of years of abuse are not so easily shrugged off. If this is going to work, if they're going to last longer than a few hours, Aziraphale and Crowley will need to learn to communicate.

It may be their greatest challenge yet. -- This fic takes place immediately after the "love confession" story "Finding the Words," and is my first real exploration in the series of what 6000 years of abuse and unhealthy communication becomes when you're abruptly free of your abusers AND starting a new relationship on the same day. Spoilers: it goes badly.

(However, I assure you all - it does have a happy ending and they will get better in the future!)

I shared the first scenes a few days ago, so the excerpt below is from slightly later, 1.3k of Aziraphale settling his emotions upon returning to the shop after the extreme thrill of walking hand-in-hand with Crowley for almost an hour. Hope you enjoy!

(CW for references to Heaven's emotional abuse/manipulation/gaslighting, and particularly to the fact that Aziraphale is still thinking in the ways they conditioned him to)

--

Aziraphale pushed the door of his shop closed and breathed a sigh of relief. Home again. His own space, where everything always made a little more sense, felt a little more secure.

Despite the fire, everything was exactly as it should be. Every book, every figurine, every speck of dust perfectly in its place. Even the rug he’d moved aside to contact Heaven lay flat in the center of the floor where it belonged, as if the entire horrid day hadn’t happened.

He paused for a moment, fingers resting on a stack of books, and took another deep breath. He didn’t feel quite settled yet; a cup of tea would really help, though he wasn’t sure if he had the time to make one properly.

Fortunately, as an angel, he had other options.

His favorite tea mug already sat on the desk by his favorite chair. Perfect. A quick miracle filled it with warm black tea, a blend of leaves with a hint of roast chestnut, something a little sweeter but more subtle than sugar, and a few buds of chamomile and safflower petals to help him relax. Then he settled into the chair and took a slow drink, letting the flavors linger on his tongue.

Yes, precisely what he needed. A moment of calm amidst the whirlwind, something Crowley would certainly understand once he’d had a chance to explain properly. Five minutes and he’d be ready for whatever excitement the world threw at him, or that he threw himself into, as that seemed to be something he did now.

He wiggled his shoulders, burrowing more comfortably into his pillows, pleased at his own boldness, wondering what he should try next. He’d played football once, years ago, perhaps they could find some energetic youths and play a match. Or he could learn a musical instrument, spend a day as one of those street-corner musicians. Not that he’d ever really wantedto, but he could if he liked, and the possibility was thrilling.

Or he could do something really audacious, like run his fingers through Crowley’s hair. That possibility made a great deal of heat rise to his face as he eyed the sofa where the demon liked to sprawl.

As he did, Aziraphale noticed a few things out of place. Nothing major. The blanket, usually draped across the sofa, lay neatly folded over the arm. The odds and ends across his desk had been properly stacked. The nearest bookshelf had been re-organized so that the books ran from the smallest on the left to the largest on the right. Even this mug, he realized, hadn’t been used for at least two days and should be sitting spotless in its cupboard.

Several possible explanations came to mind, particularly that in recreating the destroyed shop Adam had put a few items in the wrong spots. But he knew Crowley had spent hours waiting here this morning. Perhaps he’d done a little tidying, then sat and made himself a cup of tea.

That brought another fascinating blend of emotions. A little alarming, to be drinking from the same cup. Not proper at all, in today’s society, though it would have been more acceptable in the past. But in modern society, there was something intimate about it. And he found he didn’t mind that at all.

Not intimate, Aziraphale thought, eyes drifting across the shelf again. Domestic. Now there was an interesting idea. Crowley making himself at home in the shop. Making himself a snack, lounging about and being rude to customers, doing his little cleaning routine when he felt nervous, helping himself to a glass of wine in the evening or padding around in bare feet after waking up in the morning…

Instinctively, Aziraphale clamped down on the whole line of thought, burying it, glancing about to see if someone had somehow noticed.

But…there was no one to notice anything. No one to worry about. Not now, not ever again.

I’m…free.

He set down the mug and pressed his hands together. He’d never really considered himself trapped in the first place. Yes, he’d needed to be careful to avoid notice, judgement, but that was his own fault for not being the right sort of angel, for failing to measure up again and again.

And yet. There was no longer any reason to be careful.

No longer any reason to lie.

That was all Crowley had asked, wasn’t it? That Aziraphale stop lying?

Honesty. Now there was his most audacious idea yet.

“I…” He put his fingers to his lips, not quite sure he dared. But he could. He could. “I…love…”

His voice hitched over the word, his mind filling with caution, with warnings not to go too far.

“I lo-love…” Why was he shaking? He could hardly be reprimanded for it now. “I love…Crowley.”

The name seemed to hang in the air, echo off the walls. This was madness, of course, he had taken no precautions. He had every reason to think Gabriel might come back, for a check-up, for some final business, and Aziraphale would — would disappoint him, and that was worse than any punishment.

Only. Only that didn’t matter, did it? What was Gabriel’s disappointment, compared to a garden, a bright sky, and Crowley leaning down to brush his lips…

“I…I love Crowley!” It came out louder and more defiant than he intended, as warmth and excitement rushed through Aziraphale. “I love him! And he loves me!”

He gasped, just a little, to hear it out loud.

He loves me.

Sinking back into his seat again, Aziraphale rubbed his eyes. The mask of calm that had carried him through the Apocalypse fell away, and now he found himself quite close to actual tears.

He’d wondered for so many years. 78 years, 3 months and 14 days, to be precise. Did Crowley love him? Could Crowley love him? Did he feel even a fraction of that powerful force that Aziraphale often worried would destroy him, destroy them both?

It frightened him, sometimes, the love Aziraphale felt, warm and insistent, brash and bold, at times quite needy. Nothing like the pure love of Heaven, patient and kind, austere and a little distant. Not something to be freely given in exchange for a smile or a box of chocolates, but something to strive for, to inspire one towards improvement, towards one’s best self.

He’d tried, of course, oh how he’d tried. Every assignment, every duty, pouring every last bit of himself into whatever they asked of him with such good intentions, hoping for a sign, a bit of praise, a brush of that loving warmth. He always failed, of course, flawed and imperfect angel that he was.

He couldn’t resent Heaven for holding that love in reserve; that, too, was an expression of love, for how could one grow and develop if everything were simply handed to one?

But it had been lonely. So very lonely for so very long.

Not anymore.

Crowley loved him, right now, with all his faults and flaws. He couldn’t say it — such was the nature of the Fallen — but love wasn’t about words. He could feel it in Crowley’s touch, hear it in his tone of voice, taste it in his kiss. And that was enough.

He treasured it so, that love, that trust that Crowley had shared with so few. It was Aziraphale he found worthy, Aziraphalehe gave them to, and Aziraphale would do anything to show they hadn’t been misplaced.

My best friend, Crowley had said; what could be more precious than that? A greater honor than Aziraphale had ever expected.

He just wished he could hear the words in a different tone of voice, one not laced with all-consuming pain and loss. Wished he could think of them without remembering how he’d sat there stupidly, a corporationless angel floating in a void, unable to offer any reassurance or comfort, unable to even let Crowley see his face. Useless, as he’d always been.

That, at least, ended today. He loved Crowley, he was with Crowley. Nothing would ever come between them again.

He wiped his eyes one last time and went to find Crowley’s surprise. And perhaps some biscuits for the road, one never knew when one’s…companion (even that word made him blush) might get hungry.

Read the rest on AO3!

Or read the whole series here!

As always with Sawdust of Words - mind the tags and CWs.

[color-me-malfoy]

Trip To Hogsmeade

Draco Malfoy x Shy!Reader

Summary: Draco tries to impress you when the two of you become partners on the trip to Hogsmeade, but exactly how will it turn out?

“Alright, third-years, gather round, there are a few reminders before we start your first trip to Hogsmeade,” A prefect clapped her hands to get your attention before you left Hogwarts. “We have a few changes so that none of us go wandering around and getting into… accidents.”

Draco worked his way through the crowd of students looking for you, Y/N L/N, the person he really wanted to go to Hogsmeade with.

He twisted and turned through the groups of students, until he caught a glimpse of your hair from behind.

“In order not to have any cases of lost students, each of you must have a partner.”

Everyone cheered at this, but to you it meant looking for a complete stranger to be partners with, because your best friend, Toni was sick and couldn’t come.

Draco smiled unwittingly as he saw you, but before he could start walking, a hand grabbed his shoulder.

He rolled his eyes and swatted the hand away.

“Excuse m- Pansy?” His expression changed.

She was staring at him with a knowing expression.

“You’re going to ask her to Hogsmeade, aren’t you?”

“Wha- What are you talking about-”

He stopped when Pansy raised an eyebrow, clearly not buying it.

“Alright, yes I am,” he grumbled.

“So, you do like Y/N L/N,” Marcus peeked from behind Pansy.

Draco stopped, then stuttered, then groaned and flailed his hands.

“Alright, yes! I like her! How about instead of teasing me, you actually help a chap out? Care to give some advice?”

“Well, I know for a fact that girls like surprises,” Marcus winked.

“Appreciated,” Draco turned around and walked away, leaving Pansy and Marcus together.

“You shouldn’t have told him that, Marcus.”

“Yes, I know. I shouldn’t have told him that,” he buried his face in his hands.

=

While students buzzed here and there looking for their friends, you awkwardly stood by one side. You almost decided to just go on your own until someone made his way toward you.

White hair, Dark-green clothes, and a manipulative smirk?

You must be Draco Malfoy, the Slytherin heartthrob.

“You.” He pointed as he made his way toward you faster.

“M-Me?” You looked around.

“Yes, you,” he rolled his eyes, then stopped about four feet away from you. “Am I right to assume you don’t have a partner yet?”

You huffed bitterly. “Well, aren’t you the biggest genius on Earth,” you looked away.

“If you’d stop being sarcastic,” he snapped in front of your face, “you’ve already got one.”

You looked back up at him, furrowing your eyebrows. “Who?”

He sighed loudly, then gestured towards himself, smiling. “Me! Surprise!”

“You?”

“Well, I’ve got no one, you’ve got no one, so…” he waved his hands around.

“You could have asked more properly, but alright,” you walked over to his side.

“Then it’s bloody settled! Let’s go to Hogsmeade!” he held his arm out for you to take and the both of you started for the carriages, Draco with a successful grin and you with a confused look on your face.

=

For the first part of the ride to Hogsmeade, neither of you said a word to the other, because you were still so confused about why Draco chose you, and Draco was anxiously thinking about a good way to start a conversation.

“Psst.”

Draco whirled around, and saw two students behind him, their faces covered with their newspapers.

The first student put their newspaper down.

“Pansy?” he whispered. “Were you watching us this entire time?”

The second person put their newspaper down too.

“You too, Marcus? What, are you two going into the spy business?”

Marcus snorted. “You wish, we’re only here to tell you you’re doing it all wrong.”

“What gives you the right to judge?” Draco sneered. “I bet you’ve never even asked a girl to Hogsmeade.”

“He asked me,” Pansy replied. “Besides, has Y/N even talked to you?”

“She has! She called me the biggest genius on Earth!”

“It was sarcastic, Draco.”

Draco stopped.

“I-It was?”

“Draco, she won’t like you if you’re being a sarcastic plonker,” Marcus rolled his eyes. “Be kind.”

Pansy laughed. “Oh, I’d love to see Draco Malfoy, cheeky little bastard of Slytherin, trying to be kind.”

Draco smirked. “Oh, yeah? Try me.”

He turned back around and looked back at you, wiping his sweaty palms on his trousers.

Great, he thought. I still don’t know how to start.

Marcus went back to reading The Daily Prophet, but Pansy swatted it away.

“What?” Marcus turned to her.

“I want to see how this ends,” she said, leaning a little forward in her seat as you turned in your seat to face Draco.

“Were you going to ask me something?”

Draco opened his mouth, trying to think of something, then closed his mouth again. “I-I forgot what I was thinking about, sorry.”

“Oh,” you laughed, “happens all the time, doesn’t it?”

“Yeah,” he turned even more towards you. “Anyway, what do you wanna talk about, Y/N?”

“Oh, um, I don’t know,” you scratched the back of your neck, looking anywhere but at him. “How’s your studies?”

“Ah, well, I enjoy it,” Draco replied.

Marcus snickered into his sleeve, while Pansy blinked unbelievingly.

“Did he just say he enjoyed it?” she asked.

Draco realized how fake that sounded, and internally kicked himself for that. “Well, I don’t actually enjoy it, I mean, I hate studying, but it’s bearable,” he rambled.

You laughed and nodded, then turned back to the rolling fields.

Draco buried his face in his hands and turned behind him.

“I almost died listening to your conversation, Draco,” Pansy said as she filed her nails.

“You had to make it straight to the point, didn’t you?” Draco hissed. “Do you two have any other good ideas, or are you just here to gloat?”

“Well, what’s the one thing that’s good about you that no matter how much of a bloody git you are everyone tries to suck you up?” Marcus asked.

“I’m… good-looking?” Draco gestured to his face.

“No, you idiot, you’re rich!” Marcus cried. “That’s why everyone calls you the spoiled brat of Slytherin!”

“…They do?” Draco tilted his head to the side, offended.

Pansy pushed Marcus’s face out of the way.

“That’s not the point! You have literally more money in your hands than what both my parents make in a month!” she explained. “Buy her candy from Honeydukes or something!”

She yelped in surprise when Draco suddenly snapped his fingers.

“Of course! Girls love gifts! Thanks, Pansy, see you!”

=

The minute the carriage stopped, Draco took your hand and helped you out.

“Where do you want to go?” Draco asked as the two of you strolled down the street.

“Y-You’re asking me?” You looked up at him. “I don’t know, how about Honeydukes?”

“Sure,” he led you into the candy shop.

Your smile grew wider at all the kinds of candy shelved in the tiny store.

“Wow, I feel like Willy Wonka!”

Draco snorted. “What kind of a name is that?”

“Oh,” you laughed. “Willy Wonka’s not a real person, he’s a fictional character. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, have you ever heard of it?”

He shook his head.

“He owns this huge candy factory with all kinds of sweets,” you wistfully recalled, staring “This feels just like it.”

As you looked around at the assorted candies, Draco was anxiously buzzing through the shop deciding on what to buy you.

You were looking at a heap of candy apple lollipops when Draco tapped you on the shoulder.

He was carrying seventeen boxes of Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans.

“D-Draco?” You gasped. “Hey, I’ll help you! Why are you buying these many boxes?”

He shoved it all into a basket, getting the attention of nearly everyone in the shop.

“I’m buying it for you,” he grinned, and some people were whispering, asking each other who “Draco’s Lucky Girl” was.

“Oh! Well, thanks, but why seventeen boxes?”

“Well, if you buy only a few, it’ll just be Bertie Bott’s Several Flavor Beans.”

“I-I don’t actually need seventeen boxes of these, I’ll never be able to finish them! I’ll just take one.”

“Oh, oka- One?” Draco looked at you, perplexed.

“We-well, actually not one, I’ll buy another for Toni!” You plucked another box and returned the rest to the shelf. “And just a mango starburst and a sherbet lemon-”

“Wait, wait, wait. You come to Hogsmeade for the first time and you only buy these?”

“Well, there’s plenty of food at Hogwarts and I don’t eat much-”

He cut you off.

“I’m getting you one of everything.”

“I couldn’t possibly pay for all that- wait, you’re getting me one of everything?”

“Yes! Didn’t you hear me?” He walked past you, taking every kind of candy he saw.

“I-I… Well, thank you?” You muttered as he came back with three baskets, then led you to the counter. You looked around and saw some of your schoolmates, some staring at the two of you in wonder and curiosity and some others giving you grins. Others drooled at the amount of candy you had in your hands… for free!

=

Fifty minutes later, after the grueling process of packaging the candy from Honeydukes, Draco was grinning like a boy on Christmas Day as he faced Pansy and Marcus, who were behind them at the line at The Three Broomsticks.

"This is the first time I've ever spent money on anyone besides myself, just so you know," he smirked as he wiped off the sweat on his forehead. "I feel great! What do you think?"

Pansy shared an uneasy glance with Marcus before she sighed and held Draco by the arms, whispering.

"Um, We hate to burst your bubble, Malfoy, but you're doing a terrible job."

Draco stared at her in confusion, then laughed nervously. "You're kidding, right?"

"She's right, Malfoy," Marcus hesitated. "You've been pulling Y/N like a poor puppy on a leash for the past two hours."

"Malfoy, you've got to let her do what she wants," Pansy explained. "We told you to spoil her, not to force her to buy everything. She never wanted seventeen boxes of Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans! I mean, did you even ask?"

Malfoy chewed on his bottom lip. "Well, I guess you're right for once, Parkinson," he mumbled.

"Hey, man up, Malfoy," Pansy ruffled Draco's hair. "Besides, I found out from her friend Toni that she likes you too."

Malfoy looked up and grinned. "She does?"

Pansy cut him off. "Wait, before you go buy her the whole Hogsmeade to proclaim your love for her, remember she's still the shyest girl in Hogwarts," she warned.

"Alright," Draco nodded, then turned to check his wallet.

"That's the spirit, Malfoy!" Marcus cheered, then turned to Pansy and lowered his voice to a whisper. "How'd you get Toni Yorkshire to tell you Y/N liked Draco?"

"I made truth potion and snuck it in her food," Pansy winked. "Then I asked her about it and she sang like a bloody bird."

"Is that why she's absent today?"

"Ask me no questions, I'll tell you no lies, Flint."

=

Draco mulled over their words, until he felt your light tap on his shoulder.

"Draco?" you called.

"Yeah?"

"It's our turn."

"Oh, it's our turn," he placed a hand on your back and guided you to the front. "One Gillywater with candy ice and..." he turned to you. "What'll you be getting, darling?"

Trying to hide your surprise at the nickname, you cleared your throat awkwardly and looked down at the floor. "A-A butterbeer, please. With a just a splash of milk, thanks."

"Alright, dears," the woman at the counter wrote down your orders, "a Gillywater on the ice and a butterbeer with milk for the happy couple," she winked at you.

The happy what?

You sputtered and let out a nervous laugh.

"Ma'am, I'm sorry, but we're not dating."

"Yet," Draco laughed.

"W-What?" You turned to him with a red face.

The woman chuckled at your reaction.

"Why don't you two go find a place to sit?" she asked cheerily. "We'll bring your drinks over."

You nodded shyly and thanked her. But as you were about to take your wallet out, but Draco put a hand over yours.

"This one's on me," he smirked as he went through his own wallet, then handed a wad of money to the woman. "Go find us a table, Y/N."

You blushed even harder, smiled, and thanked him and the woman one last time before scurrying away to find a table.

The woman watched Draco as he gazed at you.

"You've got it bad for the lass, haven't you, Mister Malfoy?" she smiled as she pulled two mugs from the shelf behind the counter.

"No I haven't," he rolled his eyes.

"Sure you don't, sir," she poured their drinks. "I've seen that look on many a young lad in my days, I know a lovesick boy when I see one."

"Well, congratulations," Draco huffed. "Maybe I do."

"Listen 'ere, 'sonny," the woman placed their drinks on a tray as she spoke, "If I were you, I'd keep in mind that the best way to a lady's heart is... through her heart."

Draco tilted his head in confusion. "I-I don't understand."

"You don't actually make her fall for you by changing anything about yourself, or buying 'er expensive things, the more important things are being a gent to her and letting her be who she is."

Draco nodded his head at her words.

"Thank you Ma'am, I better be going back to my girl," he took the drinks and went around to find you, but turned around to face her. "If things go well, I'll let you know!"

=

"Here you go, Y/N, your butterbeer with extra milk and a Gillywater for me," he placed the tray down at your table.

"I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me, Malfoy," you smiled.

"It's nothing, really," he replied as he sat down.

He stared at you as you sipped your butterbeer and looked back up at him with foam on the sides of your lips, and he chuckled at how adorable you looked.

"What?" you laughed. "Do I have butterbeer on my mouth?"

He shook his head and smiled. "It's just... no, it's..."

"I do, don't I?" You laughed as you wiped your lips on the back of your hand. He laughed even harder because the foam didn't come off.

"Let me get it," he took the end of his scarf, leaned in, and pressed it to your lips.

The both of you had blushed positively cherry-red by the time he sat back down.

You mumbled a thanks and drank more butterbeer, shyly avoiding his gaze, and he took his mug of Gillywater, downing half of it in a second.

When he put his mug down, he took a deep breath and looked back up at you.

"Listen, Y/N," he started.

You looked up at him, and he continued.

"I'm really sorry if I was too much for you to handle today. I mean," he took a breath to steady himself, "I was kind of rude at the start of the trip, then I suddenly went quiet, then I went ahead and did… you know… the thing with the Bertie Bott's Every Flavor Beans.."

"It's alright, Draco," you reassured him. "Besides, it was kind of fun to see this new side to you even just for a day."

"That's the thing, Y/N," he took your hand in his. "I... don't want this to be just for a day. I really like you, and maybe we could spend more time together… please?" He wasn't sure if it was a question or a sentence. He looked back up at you again, waiting for your answer.

You only stared at him, and his smile dropped until you exhaled lightly, then gave a warm smile.

"I'd love to! That would be great!"

"You would?" he asked. "You really positively would?"

You nodded, and he smiled wider than before as the two of you began to talk freely, laughing as the you told each other stories and talked about life besides school.

When your prefects told you it was fifteen minutes before you would return to Hogwarts, the two of you stood up and returned the mugs to the woman at the counter.

"I'm assuming it went well, Mister Malfoy," she smirked as she took the mugs from your hands. "I hope your first official date will be back here at The Three Broomsticks."

"Oh, I don't know when we'll be able to go back here," you frowned, but smiled after. "But we’ll definitely come back!"

She smiled back, then leaned in to whisper to you. "He's a nice young fellow, dear, don't let him go that easily."

You were startled, but laughed.

"I'll keep that in mind, Ma'am."

=

The two of you made your way to the carriages, and the two of you sat by the end, where you noticed two students with their faces covered by their newspapers.

Draco rolled his eyes, then said, "Alright, you can stop spying on us now."

The two put their newspapers down and laughed nervously.

“This is Pansy Parkinson and Marcus Flint,” he smiled, then shot a glare at them. “They’ve been spying on us even before we left Hogwarts.”

“We weren’t spying on you, we were just making sure the two of you had a nice day!” Pansy gasped dramatically. “Right, Marcus?”

“I’m not exactly sure,” Marcus laughed. “Anyway, would you like to join us for dinner?”

Pansy leaned forward. “We’d love to hear about your day.”

“Oh, I don’t think you would, I bet you already know all about it.” Draco joked.

The rest of the ride was spent in a jolly atmosphere, you with Draco and your newfound friends, talking and laughing, eating sweets and planning on your next trip to Hogsmeade, which you hope would be very soon.

[fangirlxwritesx67]

Samhain

Christmas Tea (3000 words) NYE Bubbly (1500 words) Valentine’s Day Chocolate (2100 words) Happy Birthday Sam (2000 words)  Samhain (3600 words) 

Sam X Rowena A/N: did anyone ask for 3600 words of Samwitch Witch!Sam? No? Well, I still wrote it. Also managed to delete the first posting, so trying again. 

Tags: sex, so much consensual sex, oral sex, finger banging, discussion of edging, some language, mild dirty talk, fisting, magic sex and/or sex pollen, alcohol, Rowena being irresistible, size kink, hand kink 

It had been almost a year since the first time that an invitation to Rowena’s apartment turned into a sizzling night of sex for her and Sam. Since then, they had celebrated several holidays and spent many more visits just enjoying one another. 

While their relationship grew, Sam’s understanding and practice of magic had grown, too. Before, he had assisted Rowena with a few spells when needed, but had never studied spellwork for any purpose other than undoing the results. Now, he was gradually learning the rhythms of magic, the phases of the moon, and the cycle of a witch’s calendar. 

He might light an occasional candle, or burn some herbs - really, nothing he hadn’t been doing as a hunter for years. Although Dean teased him about being Rowena’s protege, he certainly wouldn’t consider himself a witch. 

He did notice, from time to time, that he felt increasingly aware of Rowena’s power. At first, he brushed it off as just the intense physical attraction between them, or his interested attention to her every word and move. But there were moments, he could swear, where he actually saw her manipulate the forces of magic, like light around her body. 

He understood more than ever how important Samhain was to Rowena. He knew that it was the most powerful Sabbat for a witch, the starting point for the Wheel of the Year. Still he was surprised when she told him she wanted - no, needed - to join her that night.  He couldn’t imagine what she had in mind. But she had called, so he went to her. 

He didn’t know what she was planning, but he also didn’t want to come unprepared. He found a bottle of wine called Witches’ Brew, so he bought it. Rowena had very specific tastes, so she might hate it, but at least he wouldn’t arrive empty handed. 

On October 31, Sam knocked at Rowena’s door. She greeted him wearing black from head to toe, sheer black, some kind of shimmery thin robe that clung to her curves and swirled around her every motion.   

She took the wine and led him to the kitchen. He watched her hips sway as she walked, taking in the fact that her underwear was little more than bits of lace and lacing across the cleft of her ass. The room was aglow with banks of white candles casting a warm light over everything. 

She uncorked the bottle and then turned to face him. “This wine is better heated.” He watched as swirls of light coiled upwards from her hand around the bottle, and was not surprised when the glass she poured him was hot. He took a sip. It reminded him of her kisses, that spicy sweetness that he could never get enough of.

She seemed to know it, too, as she met his gaze with a smirk. She raised her glass and he followed suit. For a long moment, the two of them sat and sipped in comfortable silence. Finally, she spoke again.

“There is a spell a witch can only perform when she has another witch for a lover, one who is true of heart and same of soul.” 

She reached for a wide shallow bowl at the other end of the table, one Sam had not noticed before. 

“What-” She silenced him with the press of her fingers on his lips. Without thinking, he kissed them. She smiled to herself and dipped those fingertips into the water that filled the bowl. 

“Look,” she commanded. 

He watched as the water rippled and clouded, and then faded into a scene of the woods. Between the trees he could just barely make out - Rowena, walking on and on. At first it was almost too dark to see, but the moon rose, growing and grew full and heavy as she continued her journey onward.

The moon in the scrying bowl was pearly bright when the image of Rowena reached a broad slab of stone, an altar, he supposed. She was not alone, there was a taller figure there, and as he peered more closely, he saw that it was him. He watched in the water as they joined hands before it rippled again, a glow covering the water, and the scene disappeared.

“I need you, Samuel. For days now, since the new moon, I have been - denying myself the pleasure of sexual release. Saving, so to speak, for tonight, for you. “My power will increase immeasurably if you will complete this cycle with me.”

“So you want me to -?”

“Perform this spell with me. Pleasure me, satisfy me, make love to me all night long.” 

Her green eyes were wide and bright, the words spilling like stars from her glossy lips. 

He didn’t have to think twice before nodding. “For you, yes, whatever you ask.” 

The smile that crossed her face was smug, as if she had no doubt that he would agree. She stood and gathered a few things before taking a seat again.  

“Oh, and one more thing. Once the spell is cast, it must be satisfied. I am trusting you with this.” 

He nodded again, unsure how to answer. 

Rowena sprinkled herbs over the surface of the water before reaching out. Sam took her hand in his and allowed her to weave a broad ribbon between their joined fingers and then around their wrists. He helped her tie it in a knot, binding his intention with hers. She murmured words in a voice too low for him to hear and the ribbon dissolved into a ring of light, tiny sparks sizzling downward.

She stood up, and he stood with her. Their lips met as she sank into his arms with a sigh, and he savored the flavor of dark wine and spices in her mouth. More than ever, her kisses felt magical, lips pressing, sucking, tasting, exploring, all hot and slippery and close.

Sam was so lost in her, in the warmth of her body in his hands, that it took him a little while to realize that she was whimpering, grinding against him shamelessly like a cat in heat. She was always open with her desire, but this was something new. 

“What do you want?” he murmured as his lips pressed down the column of her neck. “Tell me, my queen, tell me exactly what you want.”

“Take me to bed, my love.” she begged. 

He raised one eyebrow and looked around. The couch, the table - plenty of times in the past, they hadn’t made it to the bedroom. 

She followed his gaze and shook her head, her eyes wide and imploring, “Bed, now.” As if to make her point, she pulled away, tugging on his hand, nearly dragging him down the hall. 

The bedroom, like the kitchen, was arrayed with candles on every side. Sam drew in a deep breath of the air, heavy with incense. In the flickering flames, he saw goddesses, crystals, and cards, the shadowy light making everything seem more arcane and fantastic. 

Rowena lay back against the bank of pillows on the bed, her hair like coiled vines against the silky dark sheets. She reached for him, hands curling with need. He stripped off his clothes before kneeling on the bed at her feet. 

Instead of leaning into her grasp, he sat back, sliding his hands along her pale legs, pushing the sheer cloth of her gown up in voluminous folds. His hands settled around her waist, thumbs stroking the dip of her hip bones. He pulled down, fingers spreading to cup the swell of her ass as he slipped off the bits of lace and ribbon that made up her panties.

She was bare before him but still he took his time, pressing kisses to her creamy thighs as she whimpered and sighed. 

“Don’t tease,” she murmured.

There was nothing he loved more than to tease her, to hear her beg. But he had promised to do whatever she asked. He lowered his face into the copper curls over her sex. The taste of her was better than the best wine, warm and wet. 

He had barely begun with his lips and tongue before she bucked up against his face, the softest sighs falling from her lip as her legs shook around him. He paused, took a breath, and then pressed in again. He slipped one finger, then another into her. Her entire body drew up, quaking under his attention, before she let go with a cry. 

“Samuel,” she panted. “I’ve waited long enough. I need you, inside me, now.” 

It was the easiest command he had ever obeyed. He slid up, over her, meeting her mouth with the taste of her still on his lips. She was whimpering again, begging, her hips rising up to grind against him. 

He looked at her and saw her eyes were glazed with desire. “Are you sure-?” 

“Please,” she cried, her fingers scrambling for purchase on his shoulders. 

Sliding into her was like coming home, the tight wet heat of her so close and perfect. Sam heard himself moaning, unexpected and needy.

“Yes,” Rowena panted. “Please, I need you to, goddess, fuck, Sam, I- you-” 

It was nonsense, the broken curses falling from her lips, but watching her mouth was enough, the contrast between her beauty and the profanities. Sam trailed his lips and tongue down around her breasts as she tilted her head back, gasping and panting. 

He felt her clench around him and he groaned her name. For one long moment, he was lost- in the woods, under the light of the moon - and then he slammed back into his body. He came hot and helpless inside of Rowena as she cried and tightened and let loose underneath him. 

For one long breathless moment they clung to one another, sweaty and shattered. Sam could just see stray sparks of magic trailing off Rowena’s skin, into the dim light around them. Finally he rolled onto his side. Rowena made a soft sound of loss before he turned her into his embrace. He trailed his fingers softly over her hair, feeling her racing heart next to his. Finally her breath slowed and settled. 

“Shower?” Sam asked gently. She nodded in response. Sam stood up and held out both hands, pulling her to her feet. He helped her out of her gown and guided her to the bathroom, where he turned on the water steaming hot, the way he knew she liked it, as she twisted up her hair. They stepped into the shower together, bodies pressed together, slippery wet in the close space. 

Sam took Rowena’s body wash and lathered it over her shoulders, caressing her skin with open palms. He rubbed her back in broad circles before she spun to face him. He took his time, fingers following the trail of the water over her body, across her collarbones and down her ribs before he pressed up, farther, cupping her small high breasts in both hands. He circled her nipples, watching them rise and harden under the creamy bubbles of body wash. 

Her mouth dropped open, lips curving as her hands groped for his waist, tugging him against her. She shifted, pressing her thighs together. “You can’t just- I need- more, please.”

“Ok, hang on.” He murmured, “Let me, we’ve gotta take care of the soap.” He spun until she was under the shower, spray bouncing off her shoulders as the water sluiced down her skin. Once the last bubble swirled down the drain, he turned again so her back was pressed against the end of the shower. 

He knelt in front of her and looked up to meet her gaze. Her face was expectant, her chest rising and falling with quick breaths. He lifted one of her legs, hooking her knee over his shoulder. He steadied her with his hands around her waist as he dipped between her thighs. Her soft whines and panting moans echoed off the walls of the shower as he pleasured her until she came again, going limp in his grasp, trusting his grip to hold her up and not let her fall. 

Once she could stand on her own two feet again, Sam turned off the water. He grabbed one of the luxurious fluffy towels and patted her dry from head to toe. Her pale skin was already pink from water and pleasure. The shower had washed off her makeup, leaving her face bare. She looked younger like this, softer. He covered the freckles on her cheeks with whisper-light kisses, and her eyes widened, pools of green framed by her wet red lashes. 

“Come back to bed with me,” she murmured, holding out one hand. He reached for her, let her lead him, following her every wish. Back in the bedroom, in the wash of candlelight, her skin seemed luminous, lit with a glow from within.

They lay on the bed together, facing one another, lips meeting and parting and meeting again. Sam’s hands roamed her bare body, over every curve and angle. He knew her, this was familiar, but he never tired of touching her, holding her. As his hand strayed lower, pressing into the dip of her hips, she whimpered. 

Her fingers closed around his, drawing his hand up to cup her face, nuzzling her cheek into his palm.

“Your hands, goddess,” she murmured. “I think about them all the time, think about all the things you can do. I want you so much, want your hand inside me.”

“I know you love my fingers, love how you come on them for me,” he whispered with a kiss. 

“No.” She pulled back and looked at him, green eyes wide and hot with lust. “Your hand, your whole hand.”

He sat up, running one hand through his tangled chestnut hair. She followed his movement with a glance, unable to stop the whimper that fell from her lips, watching the way his fingers slipped through the silky strands. 

“Are you sure?” His brow furrowed with doubt. 

“Have I ever lied to you or been anything other than completely honest with my desires?” Her voice was low, breathy and utterly convincing. 

She was, as always, right. He slicked his hand with lube before slipping two fingers into her, working her over with his thumb as he pumped his fingers in and out. This was familiar for them, from their very first time. 

“More,” she gasped, and he obeyed, adding a third finger, curling up against her as she clenched down around him. He kept up his pace, whispering endearments and encouragement until she came with a high whine. 

“You still want this?” he stopped to check. “I don’t want to hurt you.”

“You won’t, I know you won’t. Please, do as I ask.” 

He nodded and tucked his thumb against his palm, pressing into her slow and steady, giving her time to stretch around him. When his knuckles slipped into her, she hissed sharply. He paused, waiting, until she drew a deep breath and nodded. 

He rocked his hand, taking his cues from her increasingly frantic groans of pleasure. Her head tipped back, slim fingers fisting handfuls of the sheets. 

When he heard her first low curse, he knew she was close to letting go. He smiled as he lowered his mouth to her, lips ghosting over her clit with the lightest of kisses as he turned his knuckles again inside her. 

Her back bowed up, arching off the bed, hips tipping toward him, her entire body taut and quivering. Her breath tore into ragged moans and her thighs shook around his ears. This time he was waiting, watching, and saw light envelop her entire body in a wash of iridescent color. She cried his name in ecstasy as she came. 

He eased his hand out slowly, stroking her through the aftershocks that left her trembling and flushed, little bursts of magic still sparkling off her skin. When her body was fully relaxed, he stretched out next to her and pressed his lips to hers. Her cheeks were blushed pink, little curls sticking damply to her temples. 

The sheer amount of pleasure they had enjoyed together was incredible, to say nothing of the magical power she had revealed. He could’ve kept going, was aroused and wanted so much more. But he could see that, for now, she was done. He would wait. 

He went to the bathroom to wash up and returned with a damp cloth and a towel. Her eyes were closed, heavy lashes fluttering open under his touch. She watched lazily as he wiped her skin with strong sure strokes. 

Then he slid into bed behind her, pulling the covers up over her and tugging her back against his chest. She nuzzled against him, her movements slow and sated. He slipped one arm around her, holding her, keeping her close. He didn’t quite catch her words as she drifted off to sleep, but it sounded like she called him, “...my witch, Sam.” 

The full moon shined through the bedroom window, casting a pale beam over Rowena’s alabaster skin. He watched her for a long moment, wondering not for the first time at her reckless vulnerable beauty. 

He didn’t feel worthy of being her lover, much less her partner in magic. He didn’t deserve to work a spell with her, not even one as wonderful as this one. But she had chosen him. And with that thought in his mind, he fell asleep too. 

That night, Sam dreamed of the scene Rowena had shown him in the scrying bowl, picking up where the vision had left off. He saw himself with her on the broad stone altar, naked in the glow of the moon. He caught glimpses of some of the things they had done together. As the moon grew low just before dawn, Rowena lay back in his arms. Her magic was visible in bands of light circling her body, weaving between them, sigils sparking off into the trees. 

“Samuel,” he heard her whisper his name softly, and his eyes slowly opened. He saw Rowena in his arms, just as he had dreamed, but without the forest or the magic. Just holding her, loving her, was magic enough for him. As their lips met, he let his hands slowly roam her body, her beautiful generous body that had given him so much pleasure. 

He could tell the spell had been satisfied by her response, by the way she hummed lazily, without the desperate desire that had driven their sex the night before. Still he had to ask-

“Did it work? Are you so much more powerful now?”

She threw back her head and laughed, full throated and free, before fixing him with an intense stare. “You saw it, didn’t you, in your dreams?” 

He knew better than to ask how she had seen it too, and instead just nodded. 

“You did so well, took such good care of me.” Her hand cupped his face, thumb easing across his bottom lip. “Thank you, my love.”

“Not like it was difficult, not with you.” Their lips met again and again, slow and seeking and deep. Rowena pressed closer to him, movements languid, pulling his body towards hers. He followed her lead, caressing her with strong sure hands, even as the touch of her fingertips left shivers on his skin. 

She pushed his shoulder back, not that she could move him, but showing him wordlessly what she wanted. He rolled back, tugging her with him. She sat up, shaking her hair back from her face as she straddled him. She planted both hands on his chest and ground down, drawing a sigh from his lips. 

His hands circled her waist as she took him in one hand and guided him into her. He saw her bite her lip as she sank down around him slowly. He let her set the pace, content to watch the way she moved, her endless sensual grace. 

Finally he tugged her shoulders down, so she lay atop him. One of his arms slipped around her back, embracing her, while the other settled over the small of her back, fingers splaying over the curve of her ass. She moved in a slow sinuous wave, rolling against him until a groan punched from his lips. 

“Come for me, one more time.” His voice was low and ragged, his hands sliding down over her thighs to pull her knees up around his waist. She rocked from side to side as he went deeper, hitting that perfect spot inside of her. 

Her mouth dropped open in a long moan, her hands curling into fists against his chest, and he felt her clamp tight around him. He gripped her waist, swiveling her down, grinding their bodies together as he thrust up over and over until finally she cried out, high and breathless. Only then did he let himself go, too. His vision went dark as his release hit him, and he glimpsed stars out of the corners of his eyes. 

For a long moment the two of them just lay like that, as close as two people could get to becoming one. The moment stretched, curved around them, the only sound the beating of their hearts. 

Sam didn’t want to break the silence, but when he glanced down, Rowena was looking up at him, her gaze bright and hopeful. 

“I’ll always do whatever you ask,” he promised softly. She nodded just once before their lips met again, sealing his words with a kiss. 

Thanks to @mskathywriteswords​ for the preread. @songofthecagedmoose​ made the graphic of Rowena in the sheer gown. 

SPN First Last and Always: @boondoctorwho​ @dawnie1988​ @deanwanddamons​ @defenderrosetyler​ @divadinag​ @emoryhemsworth​ @fookinghelljensensthighs​ @idreamofplaid​ @kalesrebellion​ @kickingitwithkirk​ @maddiepants​ @magssteenkamp​ @onethirstyunicorn​   @there-must-be-a-lock​ @tloveswriting​

Sam Girl For Life: @awesomesusiebstuff​ @lilsylvia​ @winchesterxfamilybusiness​

Rowena My Queen: @delightfullykrispypeach​ @lilsylvia​ @marril96​ @pansexualdarling @songofthecagedmoose​

Dean Curious:@adoptdontshoppets​ @awesomesusiebstuff​ @deangirl7695​ @deans-baby-momma​  @mrsjenniferwinchester​ @stoneyggirl​ @wayward-gypsy​ @winchesterxfamilybusiness​