#he was like 'who's been sleeping in my bed' and stormed outside where we were hanging on the grounds

[black-and-yellow]

Reblogging myself bc I want attention also look I finally figured out how to draw mouths slightly more realistically

sparky deathcap

[aikrus]

my harem academia: teaser INTRO

The night was quiet at U.A., the kind of stillness that amplified each little sound—the rustling of leaves outside the dorm, the trail of footsteps through the halls, and even the tic-tic-tic of the light always flashing in the smoke detector. You lay on your bed, trying to focus on the quiet, but your mind was tangled in thoughts that refused to settle.

It had been weeks since the incident during training, where you’d pushed your quirk farther than you ever had. The way your threads had instinctively lashed out to them, the raw energy of them coiling around Midoriya, the popping blasts from Bakugo, and Todoroki's searing heat and frozen ice, had left you feeling exposed in a way you couldn’t explain. You wanted to chalk it up to you subconsciously picking who would be the best to support to win the trial, but tactically Iida-kun's speed would have been the better choice paired with Kyoko-chan to combat the spaced-out hotspots and underground scouts.

You couldn’t shake the tension between you and the boys. Each of them had been more intense since that day, lingering too long in conversations, eyes following you when they thought you weren’t looking, their proximity making you boil.

A soft knock on the door broke through your thoughts.

"(Y/N)?" Midoriya’s voice was soft, almost hesitant, and it sent a shiver down your spine.

You sat up quickly, heart pounding. "Come in." A glance down to ensure that the sheets were covering the skin you'd aired to combat the heat and you caught his blink-closed eyes right as he crossed over.

The door opened, and Midoriya stepped inside, his expression nervous but determined. His green eyes flickered to yours, and you couldn't help but shiver. "I didn’t want to bother you, but… I couldn’t sleep. I’ve been thinking a lot about… well you."

You knew exactly what he was referring to. The way your threads had wrapped around him during training, how they had tightened when his emotions spiked, how you’d felt the rush of his heartbeat, the heat of his body through the invisible connection.

"Izuku," you said softly, trying to keep your voice steady, "It’s fine. We were training. Things happen."

He moved closer, standing at the edge of your bed, his eyes never leaving yours. "But it wasn’t just that, was it?" His voice dropped lower, a thread of something deeper running through it. "I felt it… and I think you did too."

The air charged, and your heart was racing again. You had felt it—but it wasn’t just Izuku. It was all of them. The thought of it made your heart clench.

Before you could respond, the door clicked open again. This time, it was Todoroki.

"I knew it," he said, his voice calm, but his mismatched eyes held a heat that belied his usual cool exterior. "You couldn’t leave it alone either." He stepped inside, closing the door behind him. He didn’t ask permission; he just moved, his presence filling the room with the same quiet intensity that always made you feel like you were caught in a storm.

Midoriya glanced at Todoroki, tension flaring between them, but neither of them moved away from you. The way their eyes lingered on you made your skin did nothing to soothe the heat.

Todoroki moved closer, standing on the opposite side of the bed from Midoriya, his gaze piercing. "You’ve been avoiding us." It wasn’t a question. "Since that day. Why?"

You swallowed, trying to find the right words, but your throat felt dry. The weight of their attention was overwhelming, pulling at you like your threads, tightening around your chest.

"It’s complicated," you finally managed, your voice barely above a whisper.

"Is it?" Todoroki’s voice was low, his eyes flickering between you and Midoriya. "Or are you just afraid?"

Your heart pounded in your chest, and for a moment, you couldn’t breathe. The tension in the room was thick enough to cut, and your quirk responded instinctively, the threads unfurling from your fingertips before you could stop them. They shimmered in the dim light, ethereal and barely visible, but you could feel them connecting, latching onto the emotions swirling in the air.

One thread wrapped around Midoriya, pulsing with the nervous energy he always carried just beneath the surface. Another thread found Todoroki, and the contrast was stark—his energy was cooler, but there was an undeniable heat beneath it, a smoldering intensity that made your breath hitch.

Both of them froze as they felt your quirk touch them. Midoriya’s eyes widened, and Todoroki’s lips parted slightly, his breath catching in his throat.

"I can feel you," Midoriya whispered, his voice trembling, but there was no fear—only curiosity, need. "It’s like you’re… inside my head."

Todoroki’s eyes darkened as he felt the same. "You’re not just connecting to us, are you?" His voice was barely a murmur, but it sent a shiver through you. "You’re feeling everything."

Your breath came faster, the threads tightening around them both. You could feel the depth of their emotions—Midoriya’s anxious but undeniable attraction, Todoroki’s steady but burning desire. It was overwhelming, and your own emotions mirrored theirs, twisting together in a way that made your entire body hum with heat.

"It’s too much," you whispered, but even as you said it, you didn’t want to pull away. The connection, the way their energy wrapped around you, was intoxicating.

"Then don’t stop," Todoroki said, his voice rougher now, closer, "we'll help you through it." His hand reached out, brushing against your cheek, his touch cool but sending fire through your veins.

Midoriya’s hand found yours, his grip tight but gentle, his thumb brushing over your skin. "We won’t hurt you." His voice was soft, reassuring, but there was a tremble in it that told you he was just as affected as you were.

The three of you were caught in the moment, breaths mingling, the space between you shrinking until it felt like you could drown in them. Your threads pulsed with life, connecting the three of you in a way that felt more intimate than anything physical ever could.

And in that moment, you realized there was no escaping this.

The air in your room was thick, charged with something electric, something primal. Midoriya’s fingers were still brushing against yours, his touch so soft, so unsure, and yet every stroke sent a jolt of energy through you, like the threads connecting your bodies were pulsing with his nervous excitement. His eyes were locked on you, wide and vulnerable, but there was something else too, something darker.

"Izu," you whispered, but before you could say anything more, Todoroki’s cool fingers slipped beneath your chin, tilting your face toward him.

"Look at me," he murmured, his mismatched eyes locking onto yours. The heat in his gaze was unmistakable, a fire burning beneath his calm exterior that made your breath hitch. His touch was soft, careful, but you could feel the tension in him, the way he was holding himself back.

Todoroki’s hand trailed down from your chin, his fingertips brushing against the sensitive skin of your neck. His touch was so light it almost felt like a ghost, but the heat it sent through you was anything but gentle. You shivered, leaning into his touch without even realizing it, the threads tightening around him, drawing him closer.

"I can feel everything," you whispered, your voice barely audible as the sensations overwhelmed you.

Midoriya’s grip on your hand tightened, his breath coming quicker now. "Does it hurt?" His voice was soft, but the concern in it made your heart ache. Even now, with the tension crackling between the three of you, he was worried about you.

You shook your head, biting your lip as Todoroki’s hand moved lower, brushing the collar of your shirt. "No," you breathed, "It doesn’t hurt. It’s… a bit overwhelming."

Todoroki’s lips quirked up in the faintest of smiles, and his hand stilled for a moment, his thumb brushing the edge of your bra. "Do you want us to stop?"

The question hung in the air between you, and for a moment, time seemed to freeze. You could feel both of them waiting, holding back, giving you the chance to pull away if you needed to. But you didn’t want to.

You didn’t even hesitate. "No," you whispered, your voice trembling. "Don’t stop."

That was all they needed to hear.

Todoroki’s hand slid beneath the fabric, his cool fingers brushing against your heated skin, and the sensation made you gasp. His touch was gentle, but there was a possessiveness in the way his hand lingered on your skin, as if he was savoring the feel of you. The threads pulsed in response, tightening around him, pulling him closer.

At the same time, Midoriya moved, shifting to sit on the edge of the bed next to you. His hand was still gripping yours, but now his other hand moved to your thigh, his touch hesitant but burning hot. He looked at you, his face flushed, eyes filled with nervous desire, as if he was afraid to take the next step.

"It’s okay," you whispered, squeezing his hand in reassurance. "Izu… I want this."

That was all the encouragement he needed.

Midoriya’s hand slid higher, reaching your mid-thigh and squeezing the muscle slightly to test the give. Then, his fingers brushed down the inside of your thigh, and you shivered at the touch. It was so different from Todoroki’s cool, calculated movements as his hot-cold hands kneaded your breasts. Izuku was all heat and passion, his hand trembling slightly as if he was trying to contain himself. But you could feel the desire coursing through him, the way his body was humming with need.

The threads connecting the three of you pulsed with life, feeding off the emotions swirling between you. You could feel everything—Midoriya’s desperate, almost frantic energy, Todoroki’s controlled but smoldering desire, and your own body responding to both of them, heat pooling in your stomach.

Todoroki’s hand moved higher, pushing your shirt up, exposing more of your skin to his cool touch. He leaned closer, his breath warm against your ear, sending a shiver down your spine. "You’re trembling," he murmured, his lips brushing against your earlobe. "Is it too much?"

Your breath hitched, your body arching into his touch. "No," you whispered, your voice barely audible. "It’s perfect."

Midoriya’s hand slid even higher, his fingers tracing patterns on your inner upper thigh, and the tension in your body coiled tighter, heat building between your legs. He leaned in closer too, his breath warm against your navel as his lips brushed against your skin.

"You’re amazing," he whispered, his voice rough with desire. "I’ve wanted this for so long."

Your heart pounded in your chest, the confession sending a wave of warmth through you. You’d known. You’d felt it in the way he looked at you, the way his body always seemed to gravitate toward yours. But hearing it made everything more real, more intense, more attainable.

Todoroki’s hand moved lower now, his fingers tracing your areola, and your breath caught in your throat. You could feel the tension building between the three of you, the anticipation, the needy want. The room felt too small, the air too hot, and every touch made your body ache with desire.

"Shouto," you whispered, your voice trembling. "Izuku…"

Their names felt heavy on your tongue, weighted with all the emotion swirling between you. You could feel the threads tightening, connecting you all in a way that went beyond physical touch, beyond words. The energy between you was tangible, crackling in the air like electricity.

Todoroki’s hand moved into a pinch, his fingers twirling and slightly tugging on the nipples, and Midoriya’s lips found right above the waistband of your skirt, his mouth hot and insistent against your skin- his fingers tight around your thighs. Your body trembled, overwhelmed by the sensations crashing over you, the heat building between your legs, the way their touch ignited something deep inside you.

"Tell us what you want," Todoroki murmured against your ear, his voice low and rough. "We’ll give you everything."

Your breath came in short, uneven gasps as the tension coiled tighter inside you, your body aching with need. You could feel them both waiting, their touch hovering just on the edge, waiting for your permission, waiting for you to tell them it was okay to take that final step.

"I want you," you breathed, your voice trembling with desire. "Both of you."

The words hung in the air for only a moment before everything shifted.

Todoroki closed the gap between you and kissed his lips to yours- pursuing but coaxing- determined yet wielding, his fingers traced down the inside of your arms and his touch cooled but sending fire through your veins. At the same time, Midoriya’s mouth moved lower, his lips tracing a path down your navel, his breath hot against your skin as his fingers slowly rolled your skirt band down to expose skin inch-by-inch. The intensity of it made your head spin, your body arching into their touch as the tension snapped, releasing in a wave of pleasure that left you gasping for breath.

The connection between the three of you, the invisible threads that had been binding you all together, pulsed with life, tightening, drawing you closer. You were all tangled together now, bodies pressed against each other, hands roaming, lips finding skin, the heat between you building to a fever pitch.

"We’re not stopping now," Todoroki whispered, his voice rough and filled with promise, as his fingers continued their slow, torturous movements on your breasts before he replaced it with his devil-mouth.

And you didn’t want them to.

[taesanboki]

What are we..? - K. LH

pairing: toxic!leehan x fem!reader

༄ summary: after an amount of time full of flirtatious acts and joyful dates spent with leehan, you were blinded by love and thought you found the one even imagining yourself as a mother. But maybe leehan wasn’t who you thought he was..

༄ contains: angst, swearing (literally one word), love bombing, leehan is a dick!, use of y/n, use of leehan’s real name (donghyun), idk if i missed anything but enjoy 👏😊!

★ a/n: so uhm funny story..after i posted my intro i also got chewed up by a tiger and died! (the tiger being my sister..) so i have come back from the dead to start posting 😊 (the tiger has been threatening me to post so here i am 😊!)

more under the cut!

The clock read 8pm as you stood cold and upset outside of a fancy restaurant that donghyun had told you he’d meet you at but clearly never showed up.

He was supposed to be here by 7pm but after many missed calls and avoided texts you decided to wait figuring he was just busy getting ready. But 10 minutes turned into 20 minutes, 20 turning into 30, and 30 turning into an hour.

You scoffed looking at your phone screen to see no new notifications which is no shocker since this isn’t the first time he’s stood you up.

“What a dick” you mutter to yourself as you storm away to the direction of your car. This dinner was supposed to be a “make up” dinner since he’d been busy with other things and hadn’t been making plans with you. You had gotten ready with such an excited manner putting on the dress he loved and the perfume he bought you for your birthday.

You and donghyun hadn’t made it official yet only going on a few dates for the past few months but in such little time you couldn’t help but start falling for him, fast.

He seemed like a nice guy, handsome, caring, sweet, gentle, and everything you could ever ask for in a man. You felt lucky being with a guy like him, you felt the need to do anything to please him, anything to make him feel the same way you did. But soon your efforts seemed to be going to waste as time went on, he felt to be drifting away very slowly.

You slammed your car door shut with a defeated feeling bubbling in your stomach. You felt tears forming on your waterline but this wasn’t something tear worthy so you tried your best to suck it up and drive back home.

The faint music playing in the background made the feeling settle down a bit since your favorite soft artist was playing, clairo.

Eventually you made it back home and got changed out of your clothes, took a shower, and made your way to bed.

While lying in bed, you couldn’t help but think about what went wrong throughout your small relationship with donghyun. You had thought maybe this could bloom into something more, maybe even having him meet your parents and start a family one day.

You couldn’t help but feel a small pang in your chest, tears begging to be released.

You couldn’t contain it any longer and let it flow, over, and over again. Your sobs grew louder as you gripped the pillow under you, you never thought a guy could make you feel this way. Both happy and excited for his next move mixed with disappointment and frustration.

You didn’t know what to expect every time he promised to make it up to you. You always thought he would change and start to be better but it always ended up being the same results.

Once you calmed down a bit, you drifted to sleep with racing thoughts and pressure built up in your chest. Let’s hope tomorrow will be a better day..

The cruel ringing of your alarm tore you out of your slumber while you were having the best dream. Where Donghyun wasn’t a complete dick and actually took interest in you.

It saddened you that you could only dream about him being that way rather than experiencing it in real life.

You pushed all thoughts aside and focused on getting ready for work.

Once you were finished, you grabbed your keys and headed out of your apartment to your car when a text popped on your screen from the one and only, donghyun.

The worst part about being in this situationship with donghyun was you couldn’t say no, no matter how hard you tried he always had a way of convincing you.

You let out a disappointed sigh, you knew that you couldn’t get too excited anymore since most of the time when he asked to go out he stood you up with no excuse and you always forgave him. But a little part of you still had hope that he’d come through this time.

You made it to work, starbucks, clocked in and started working.

Work was going peaceful until a customer walked in. Male, a little taller than you, in his mid 30’s.

You watched him as he walked up to the counter to where you stood, his walk had this pettiness in it that you couldn’t help but choke down a small giggle.

“Hi! Welcome to starbucks, what’s the name for the order?” You greeted the man enthusiastically. “rob and uh can I get a tall iced pumpkin latte and a pumpkin cream cheese muffin, make it quick I don’t have all day.” The man replied while pulling out his phone.

You scoffed at the man’s behavior, now known as rob. No thank you? No please? You tried to keep your cool as you told the man the price of his order and turned to start making it.

After about 10 minutes you finished his order and went back to the front to call his name.

“I got a tall iced pumpkin latte and a pumpkin cream cheese muffin for rob!” Shortly after calling out the order, the man stomped over to the counter, snatched his order without taking his gaze off his phone, and walked out.

Not even 5 minutes go by before the bell on the door rings and the same man walks in angrily, his drink in one hand and his phone in the other.

“This is wrong.” “Uhm no sir that’s an iced pumpkin latte just like you ordered..” You shot back.

“This has foam. I didn’t ask for foam.” The man barked. You took a deep breath in, “Well sir make sure to clarify that when you order so we can get it right next time” You smiled sarcastically.

“Give me a refund now or I want to speak to your manager.”

You paused and bit your lip to keep yourself from spilling out obscenities for the sake of your job. “Unfortunately, we can’t refund you for a drink you already took a sip out of, i’m sorry i got your order wrong, have a nice day!”

“Young lady do you know who i am? I could get you fired from here with one complaint.” The man spat at you.

Oh my god someone kill me you thought. “Sir, just like I told you there’s nothing i can do, the least i can do is apologize.”

The man rambled on and on leaving you to stand there with your hands behind your back and taking deep breaths. The anger boiling inside of you was begging to be let out.

Just as you were about to snap, your manager stepped out to ask what all the noise was about and ordered you to take a break.

You stormed to the back and tore off your apron, sitting down on a chair trying to calm yourself down.

As frustrated as you were, you couldn’t let this ruin your mood, but it seemed like the universe wanted you to always have bad days.

Soon your shift ended, it was 7pm and you were exhausted and still a little frustrated while you rushed home to take a shower and finally relax.

You had completely forgotten about donghyun wanting to come over until you opened your apartment door.

You were greeted with your favorite candies and a bowl of popcorn while donghyun made himself at home with his feet on your table. That ticked you a little.

As soon as he saw you walk through the door he stood up and walked over to you and pulled you into a small hug. “Geez I didn’t know you were working for so long, i’ve been waiting here for a while!” He chuckled as he led you to the couch. 

You reluctantly sat down, “How did you get in my house?!” He laughed before responding, “Did you forget you hid a key under your doormat?”

“Fuck i need to take that out” You whispered to yourself.

“Let’s watch a movie come on!” Donghyun quickly put his feet back on the table and grabbed the whole bowl of popcorn.

You closed your eyes and shook your head, trying to keep your anger tamed. “Donghyun, i never said you can come to my house unannounced.”

He looked at you, “We’re watching a movie together right?” You cleared your throat, “I never said yes but i appreciate the effort you put into this but i need you to leave.”

“What? Are you mad at me?” He tries to pull you into a hug to keep your mind off of your frustration.

You didn’t reciprocate the hug, just sitting there letting him lean on you. “Donghyun.” “y/n let’s watch a movie come on that’s why i’m here!” “Donghyun-“ “y/n stop talking we’re watching a movie”

You closed your eyes, you were fed up with him not acknowledging the problems and mental problems he’s caused, only making little effort to tell you he’s sorry without using actual words.

You snapped, “Donghyun im done, im so fucking done with you not caring about my feelings and making me wait for you every night whether it’s out in the cold or even a text back! The thing i hate most about this- whatever we are is how you don’t even make an effort to make me feel better, how you don’t even know how much pain and exhaustion you’ve caused me, how you don’t realize how much i’m willing to do for you!” Tears now streaming down your face all the emotion and frustration built up spilling out.

Donghyun stared at you confused for a moment as if he didn’t know what you were saying. “Y/n..what are you talking about..?” a nervous chuckle coming out of him.

“The fact that you’re not taking me serious right now says everything I need to know-“ you sniffled, “donghyun, can you tell me one thing? What are we..?”

It got quiet, donghyun not knowing what to say. The silence was eating you alive, only your heavy breaths being heard.

The silence lasted for several minutes before donghyun finally spoke, “.. We’re friends y/n..”

That felt like a stab in the heart, did all of this mean nothing to him? Was all of this just for fun?

The pain in your chest was unbearable, now it was your turn to stay quiet.

The both of you stared at each other for what felt like hours, donghyun’s eyes were glossed over while your face was coated with tears.

You took a deep breath in and looked away, “Donghyun please leave..” You whispered with a shaky voice. “Y/n-“ “leave.”

Without another word, donghyun got up, dusted off his clothes, and walked out taking a small glance before slamming the door.

As soon as you heard the door shut, you let out ugly sobs. Your heart ached, it felt like it shattered into microscopic pieces.

You sat there with your face in your hands, shaking rapidly basically drowning in your tears for hours upon hours.

It hurt. it hurt so bad and you couldn’t do anything about it. All you could do was cry.

All of your effort, all of the affection you’ve given him, everything you’ve sacrificed just to keep him happy over your own happiness had all gone to waste.

The rest of the night all you did was cry, replaying all the interactions you’ve had, thinking of the good times, yearning for something that could never be.

끝!! im sorry for not posting for a month after my intro as i said that tiger ATTACKED me but im here now so tell me your thoughts!

[dear-sigyn]

THUNDER

𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒅 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕: 1.4k 𝒂/𝒏: starting to write this during my exam period wasn't my brightest idea, nor was finishing it at 2am, but hey, better inspiration always comes late at night ;) 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔: none (that I think of)

You knew it was getting late, very late, and a quick glance at your watch confirmed that it was indeed already past 4am. The storm that showed up earlier in the evening was still raging outside, and each thunderclap resonated like a drum in your heart, preventing you from falling asleep.

At first, you told yourself that it was just the excessively loud noise keeping you awake, but the way your breath caught every time lightning tore through the sky told a different story: you were scared. Worse yet, you were terrified, and there was no use pretending otherwise - you wouldn’t find sleep tonight.

With a long sigh, you dragged yourself out of bed, moving around your room in search of the notebook where all your notes from yesterday are written. ‘If I have to pull an all-nighter, it might as well be a productive one,’ you thought.

However, as you turned your room upside down for your precious writings, you quickly realized they were nowhere to be found. Anxiety slowly began to grow in your chest, and suddenly, felt the weight of your worries about the upcoming heist bearing down on your shoulders.

In reality, it’s been a few days since you’ve started to dwell on everything that could go wrong. Even though the Professor's plan seems perfectly laid out, there are always external factors that we can't predict, right? But now is not the right time to worry about that.

Taking a deep breath and refocusing your thoughts, it only took 2 seconds to remember where they were, or rather, who had them.

And it was quite simple, really. After another ‘lesson’ with the Professor, Berlin asked you - not without adding a few inappropriate remarks throughout the conversation - if you could lend him your notes.

Despite his peculiar character, you got along quite well at your first encounter, and you quickly grew closer over the weeks spent together - perhaps a bit more than you should have knowing the rules - so you didn’t think too much before handing him your notebook. You had planned to pick it up later in the evening, but with the storm intensifying, you promptly retreated to your room without a word, hiding your head beneath your pillow to drown out the unsettling rumblings. It would certainly be very rude to disturb him in the middle of the night just to come pick them up, but that was the least of your concern at the moment, and the lack of sleep wasn’t making you think rationally anyway.   

So without thinking too much about the consequences that your next decision might entail if you were ever caught, you decided to leave your room, quietly closing the door behind you, and tiptoed across the hallway. 

As you arrived at his door, doubts began to form in your mind, but before they could consume you entirely you softly knocked on his door, being careful to make as little noise as possible to avoid waking others, while already anticipating his remarks about why you had come to see him this late at night.

And sure enough, when he finally opened the door the first thing you saw was a mischievous - and  tired - smile forming on his lip as his eyes met yours, “Well, who do we have here? To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit at such a late hour, cariño?”

You took a breath to pull yourself together and smiled weakly back at him “Well, you see I’m sorry to bother you at this hour but it occurred to me that you have something of mine in your possession”. He raised an eyebrow, amused, “Is that so? And what could be so important that you must come knocking at my door at …” he glanced at his watch, “... almost 5 in the morning?”

His subtle sarcastic tone didn’t escape you; he knew exactly what you were talking about. Usually, you weren’t opposed to playing along with his little games, but the thunder that continued to rumble outside and the looming threat of another lightning strike approaching made your patience wear thin, “My notebook Berlin, I need my notebook now”, at that you saw his eyebrows furrowed, maybe your tone was a little too harsh, “... please.”

“Oh, you wound me, nena. Why the rush?” he said, feigning offense. But realizing that you were definitely not in the mood, he sighed and continued in a dramatic tone. “For your information, cariño, I had planned to return it to you last night. But that was before you dashed to your room like a flash, without even saying goodnight.”, he said, raising his hand to his heart. “Are you aware of the pain it caused me?”

At that, you scoffed, “Don’t you think you’re exaggerating? Don’t tell me you’re sulking because I didn’t say goodnight; that doesn’t sound like something you would do.” He shrugged and replied, “Maybe I am.”

You were about to retort when suddenly a particularly loud thunder was heard, making you jump and utter a cry. Feeling panic starting to overtake you, you were about to glance down the hallway to check if your reaction had woken anyone up, but you didn’t get the time. With a firm grip on your shoulders, he ushered you into his room, closing the door behind you. 

You're unsure of what caused you to break down first—the sound of thunder that led to a completely ridiculous reaction in front of Berlin, his reluctance to return your notebook, the sleep deprivation, or the near-miss of being caught standing in the hallway in the middle of the night just to retrieve some notes. But you felt the first tear roll down your cheek, followed by a second, then a third, until cascades were flowing from your eyes.

When he realized the distress you were in, he tightened his arm around your shoulders, the other coming around your waist, enveloping you in a tight embrace. It was just what you needed to fully let go and release all your pent-up emotions.

While your cries increased, he gently hushed you, running his fingers through your hair. And after taking a few minutes to calm down, you finally spoke again, your voice muffled against his chest. “ … I don’t like storms,” you murmured, to which he responded with a low chuckle, “You don’t say, cariño.”

He loosened his grip to observe your face, but still feeling a bit embarrassed by the whole situation, you kept your head tucked against him. “Hey …” his hand delicately rested on your cheek, guiding your gaze toward his. “That’s it, look at me.”

“It’s not only the storm, is it?,” his fingers tenderly brushed away the remnants of your tears in a soothing gesture. You nodded slowly and tried once again to speak, but your throat tightened, preventing you from doing so, no sound coming out.

“Oh no, you don't have to tell me right now, but please don't shut yourself off from me or even the others like that anymore, hm ?”, he brushed aside a strand of hair that had fallen over your eyes, “It’s not good for you.” You nodded once again, leaning your head gently against his chest as you closed your eyes, lulled by the rhythm of his breathing. You then felt your own breathing becoming steadier and the tension gradually leaving your body.

You stayed in this position, in the middle of his room, for a moment, and as you were miraculously beginning to fall asleep, the sound of his voice snapped you out of your reverie. "You can stay and sleep here, if you want”, his suggestion was made in a quiet voice, as if he didn't want to rush you.

It was certainly a bad idea, but at the moment, it was the least of your worries. You felt so relaxed, so peaceful, that you murmured a nearly inaudible 'yes' to him but due to your proximity he heard it. Berlin carefuly guided you to his bed, settling you in, and pulled the covers up to your shoulders before settling in on the other side.Finally, you felt sleep starting to kick in. But before fully succumbing to it, you sensed arms embracing you, a soft kiss tenderly placed in your hair and a hand covering your ear blocking the sounds of the thunder outside. A faint smile appeared on your lips, for the first time since the storm began, you felt safe.

first writing done!! english is not my first langage so my sincere apologies for any mistakes I tried to be careful <3

[kvrokasaa]

First ride, first kiss, first touch

Rindou makes me go brrrrrr, so here's a little thing.

Recommended songs - Electric love - BORNS | we fell in love in october - girl in red

cw: kissing, fluff, dangerous activity (but it's fun lmfao), mention of death once

"Come and pick me up then." You whispered through your phone. Lately you've been talking to Rindou, almost every night.

It was nice, peaceful. You finally took your relationship to the next level, no more the talking stage, but not quite in the actual relationship.

"It's the middle of the night and its storming," his voice was tired, as if he was ready for sleep. "Do you have a death wish?"

You only smile at his words. He always made you think on your decisions, ironic because he's in a gang. "That's funny. I thought you told me that you could ride anywhere, anytime." You were half-joking. But you did want to see if he would follow through and actually pick you up.

You could hear him sigh, "I swear, talking to you is only making me older by the second." But you could hear rustling from his end. It sounded like he was putting his shoes on.

Before you could throw an insult back to him, he disconnects the call. You scoff and place your phone onto your bed.

You have too much energy for the middle of the night. If only you could do something, maybe go somewhere.

After only a few minutes of contemplating what you should do, you hear a motorcycle. And it only takes seconds to realize who's motorcycle it is.

Your eyes widen and you look past your curtain to see Rindou on his bike, waiting for you.

You scramble to pick up your phone, immediately dialing his number. He answers after four rings, and you can hear the rumbling of his bike.

"Are you really outside my house?!" Your tone sounded mad and urgent, but it was a farce. A smile was wide on your lips and you laugh a little.

"Yeah, you gonna come out and ride with me?"

You rush downstairs and put your shoes on, quickly grabbing a coat and throwing it on. Once you get outside, you run up to Rindou, smile as big as ever.

"Let's go, but if you get scared, I'm not stopping," he sounded bored, but you know that he was anything but. "This was your idea."

You climb onto the back of his bike, placing your hands around his waist. Once he's sure you're holding on, he starts the engine back up and gets ready to go.

The wind is brushing through your hair, the rain slipping down your cheeks. You smile at the freedom you feel. If you could, you would open your arms to feel every bit of the night. But know Rindou would only scold you.

Your smile is as big as ever. The cold of the night mixed with the air doesn't bother you as you giggle and hide your face against Rindou's back.

But your excitement comes to a sudden stop when Rindou stops the bike at a secluded beach. The rain stopped but the wind was still as strong as ever.

Before you could ask why he stopped, he hopped off his bike and grabbed your hand, helping you off.

"Follow me." You have no choice but to listen.

He grabbed your hand and led you to the sand next to the waves, where you can smell the salt and feel the water. You look up at the stars which you can barely ever see thanks to the city. Your mouth hangs open as you admire.

You look to the side and see the city lights; you have everything right next to you.

But your admiring was cut off thanks to Rindou grabbing your chin and making you look at him.

"Look, I'm not good with words, sometimes not even my actions. And I get that," if you looked close enough, you could see the red dusting his cheeks and tips of his ears. "But I want you to know that I really like you and your stupid bursts of energy."

He grabs your other hand, placing them close to his chest. "And I love-" He cuts himself off, turning his head to the side.

You scrunch your eyebrows and look confused, "love what? What is it?"

Rindou only grumbles and looks back at you. He opens his mouth, but then closes it. Like a goldfish. And you want to laugh at the scene, but you don't want Rindou to get the wrong idea.

But he leans in and whispers, "just, let me do this." And before you could ask what he means, what he's implying, his lips meet yours.

All blood rushes towards your face, and you know Rindou can feel it when he places his hand on your cheeks.

He turns his head, kissing you deeper. Finally, you close your eyes and enjoy the moment.

You kiss back just as passionately; I like you too. Rindou can feel the words through the kiss.

Rindou is my baby

[throneofsapphics]

misted realities

Rowaelin x f!Reader

Summary: Aelin pressed her lips to your forehead, running a thumb over your cheek. “We’ll be back soon, love,” she murmured - as if you might hear, and tucked the blankets tightly around you. A wicked storm was brewing outside. Not uncommon for this time of year, but it felt like a bad omen. 

Warnings: angst, injuries, mentions of torture/death, mentions of blood 

Word Count: ~8k

A/N: based on this request! reader is fae, has earth-based magic. 

“You never have time for me anymore,” you fought to keep your voice down, and clenched your fists to hide your shaking hands. 

“Gods,” Aelin sighed. “We’re all busy,” she did look exhausted, small circles forming under the Queen’s eyes. Days would go by when the three of you barely passed a few sentences between each other. At least between you and them. 

“I know,” you bit down on your bottom lip, willing the tears to disappear from the corners of your eyes. “I just want to spend more time with you.” 

“Don’t cry,” Rowan’s curt tone shocked you. Tears were replaced by anger, beginning to simmer deep inside of you. “You see us everyday.” He’s right, you sleep in the same bed each night. But, as soon as they come in - they’re ready for bed. When they wake, it’s lucky if you have mere minutes to speak with them before they’re gone. 

Your throat bobbed as you swallowed. “Right.” 

Rowan’s eyes rolled, but he strode towards you, one hand braced on your shoulder, the other cupping your cheek and tilting your head up to look at him. His eyes searched your face, thumb wiping away one of the stray tears. “We’ll talk about this later.” 

You took a step back, shaking off his grip. 

“It’s always later,” you spit out. 

Aelin’s fingertips rubbed at her temples as she glanced at the clock. “We don’t have time for this.” 

They never have time, not anymore. In the beginning, it felt like they would always make time for you - always time to go out into the forest, to go into the city, to just exist together.  Maybe you were being selfish, they’re the Queen and King of Terrasen for gods sake. But, where they used to seek you out, now you always chased after them and it was getting exhausting. Months of the same thing. 

“Don’t worry about it,” you let out a slow breath, but it did nothing to abate the tightness in your chest. Aelin frowned, lips pressing into a tight line. “I’m … I'm just overthinking.” 

Rowan’s look said; obviously, but Aelin still seemed a bit disgruntled. She glanced at the clock again. 

“We have to go,” she glanced over to Rowan. He gave her a soft smile, shot a nod your way, and looped his arm through hers before leaving the room. You stared after them, at the closed door. Never, they’d never left like that before. Not even a hug, or a i’ll see you later. Or have a good day. You clenched your fists at your side, gripping the fabric tightly. 

Space, maybe some time away from here would do you good. Ella had invited you on a trip, one you declined because you thought they would have a free day this weekend. But, at this point, who even knows if they’d want to spend it with you? You couldn’t put everything else on hold in the hopes that they might decide to grace you with their attention. If you remembered correctly, the trip began tomorrow. 

Slipping on your boots, you left the castle as quickly as possible - to find her and tell her to add one to the itinerary. 

It would be telling, that’s for certain. Either they’d miss you or … maybe realize they were better off without you. You prayed you could handle the truth, whatever it might be. 

-

“I’m leaving for a trip with my cousins tomorrow, I’ll spend the night at Ella’s. It’s an early start.” You stood in the door of the bedroom, fresh out of a bath, a pack slung over your shoulder. She’d been thrilled and shocked you decided to come along. Excited enough you felt some shame - shame that you hadn’t spent time amongst your family. That you’d focused so much on your relationship it surprised them you would go along. 

Aelin’s eyes flicked up from her book, her legs stretched across Rowan’s lap. “Be safe.” 

How long had they been out here? Not bothering to come say hello to you? Rowan gave a curt nod. It felt like a clear dismissal, and you took it. 

You gave them a tight smile, one they didn’t see, and strode for the door - shoulders back and head high. After you’d passed the gates, you realized they hadn’t asked where you were going, or when you would be back. 

-

The Oakwald was gorgeous this time of year. Brannon’s forest. It always felt … peaceful. Like a place you could come to to escape the rest of your thoughts. The trip had gone well, visiting a few old friends in a neighboring province. A week long trip, and one of the best weeks you’d had in a while. 

They were in the back of your mind, not consuming your thoughts, not constantly lingering in the front. All of your focus went to your family, your friends, and on spending quality time with them. It was a thing of beauty, and something that left you feeling revived. Alive again. You’d given too much of yourself to them, and received too little in return. King or Queen aside, you deserved more than half-assed attempts and short words. Your last interaction with them had sealed it. Anything you might have had at one point, had faded away. There’s no sense in drawing out something like this. No sense in you desperately begging for any scrap of affection or attention. You had more respect for yourself than that. 

You approached the next clearing, and the hair on the back of your neck stood. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Something here was off. You stopped at the edge, one hand palming the knife at your side, and scanned the surrounding treeline. 

“Down,” you shouted as a figure moved, your Fae hearing picking up the slight zing of an arrow string pulled taut. They listened, and dove to the ground behind some rocks. With another thought, the ground underneath the attackers shifted, rolling up to knock whoever it was off balance. You dove to the forest floor, arrows still flew, one lodging in your thigh - the other grazing your arm, head knocking against the rocks. Pain shot through your body, sending white spots through your vision - but you gritted your teeth and rolled, righting yourself up to a crouch. 

It all happened in seconds. Your right wrist, your dominant wrist, was broken - and you reached for your dagger with your left. You felt Ella’s distinct magic - a shield of wind coming to surround the three of you, and heard the sound of Edde’s bowstring pulling taught, and your own magic acting of its own accord. Sentient, almost. Maybe it was your subconscious guiding it. 

The rest passed in a blur, all you knew was fifteen bodies were left by the end of it. Five with arrows through their skulls, others with blue faces - like someone had ripped the air from their lungs, the rest strangled by branches and vines. Looks like the last three had gotten their wits about them and fled. The three of you fought together before, and had spent a magic-less decade together with the Wolf-Tribe. You knew what you were doing. Still, you had gotten lucky. They caught you by surprise. 

Edde was scouting the area ahead, Ella looking at your wounds anxiously. Neither of you could heal, none of your magic lent to that. 

“It’s fine,” you insisted. It was - surface wounds in all honesty. The biggest risk now was infection. As soon as you got to a healer, you’d be fine. “We can turn back-” 

“Going back will add an extra three hours,” Edde said as she entered, a handful of herbs in her hand. She chewed them, before packing them onto the wound on your arm, and ripping part of her shirt. “Crude, but it’ll keep infection away for now.” 

“I don’t want to go back.” You winced, trying not to sound like a whining child. If you made it to the next town, someone could easily send a messenger to Orynth with the information. Plus, there were sentries posted there. But … the threat was closer to Orynth, and you did have a moral obligation to inform them of any dangers present. Ella gave you a sympathetic look. You’d given them the run down about the status of your relationship in the beginning of your trip, and they knew you well enough to pick up that you didn’t want to speak about them further. 

Edde had a forced grin on her face, “I’m the oldest - and I say we’re going home.” 

You appreciated her attempt at humor, and sighed. Neither of them suggested shifting and going ahead - it might have been smart but the three of you were stronger together. Leaving one of them alone with you, injured, would be a risk - having one of you alone would be another risk, and you weren’t taking any of those. 

Battered, and bruised, your cousins helped you back to the castle, each of your arms propped over one of their shoulders. Edde had slung you over her shoulder for part of it, but when you sensed her strength waning you insisted on walking. The three of you had worse in the past, you could walk on an injured leg. The pounding in your head was more obnoxious anyway. 

Fenrys saw you first. Thankfully. You didn’t want to see Rowan or Aelin yet.

The male told the two of them to stay in place, actually said ‘don’t fucking move,’ and you didn’t argue as he swept you in his arms, mouthing a ‘sorry’ over his shoulder. They both shrugged, sending a knowing glance to each other. 

“Is there any chance you won’t tell them?” You mumbled. 

“Trouble in paradise?” He teased, his voice strained. You snarled at him, and he snorted. “You know I have to.” 

Even if he didn’t have to, he would. He barked an order at a passing sentry, and you kept your mouth clamped shut as he slipped between the folds of the world, your stomach churning. 

-

The poor messenger sent to the Queen and King was shaking. Rowan stiffened. He knew this male to be level headed, calm, and stoic. But here he was - shaking like a leaf, like a soldier after his first blood drawn. 

“Y/n,” he started, “is in the healers-” 

Aelin shoved him to the side and sprinted out the door. Rowan didn’t wait for him to finish either and took off after her. Their footsteps sprinted down the halls, silent on the stone as they ran faster than they ever had. They cleared through the hallways with ease, hands wrapping around the corners to propel themselves forward.

-

“We need to stop the bleeding.” One of the healers said, in a firm no-nonsense tone, and you yelped as she began undoing the half-assed bandages, giving an appreciative nod at the herbs. Your eyes shut closed, focusing on anything but the lashing pain coming from your thigh. At least the arrow was lodged well enough that keeping the piece inside stopped any bleeding. 

The door flung open. Rowan and Aelin stood there - pure panic and wrath coming from each of them. Rowan eyed both healers, with startling intensity. You fought back the words on the tip of your tongue - to tell them to leave, to get out of there. 

“Leave.” Rowan ordered both of the healers instead. You opened your mouth to protest, but he fixed you with a look and you shut it again. Testing him right now - at least in front of the other females, might not be a wise idea.

His predatory attention stayed on you as he made his way across the room. Aelin, however, kept an eye on the women, watching until the door closed firmly behind them, before rushing over to your side. 

Rowan managed to stay cool, but Aelin cursed under her breath as she took in your wounds. A broken wrist, a deceptively deep gash on your arm, part of an arrow stuck out of your thigh. You’d cut the rest off to make travel back a bit easier. 

“I didn’t think you’d care,” you said bitterly. Rowan ignored you - giving instructions to Aelin instead. Who, surprisingly, listened without questioning - fetching whatever items he ordered. 

“Tell me what happened.” He ordered, and you paused, tilting your head. He was focused on your wound, magic starting to swirl over your skin. “Now,” he didn’t look up at you. 

You let out a low exhale, but told him what happened, recalling every detail you could. 

“Does anything else hurt?” Aelin asked as Rowan finished up. 

“No,” you said quietly. Your head did, a bit, from impact - but you didn’t want them to think you’re weak, or complaining. The other ones were more serious, but healed almost as if nothing had happened, only scars in their place. You’d be sore for a few days, but that should be all. 

“Let’s get you to bed,” Aelin held out a hand for you. You reached to take it, but Rowan cut in - sweeping you up into his arms instead. You stiffened in his hold, but he only tightened, holding you close to him. 

They were both silent on the walk back, not that it mattered - you drifted into sleep almost as soon as your head hit the pillow. 

-

Aedion took in their report with a grim face, before sending out scouts to locate the survivors. Ones who managed to survive the three of you. Your cousins headed back out with them to show the way. He had instructed them to bring them in alive, if possible. 

He’d let them rot in the dungeons, let them fester until Aelin and Rowan got their turn. They wouldn’t make it out of there alive, he knew that for certain. 

-

Rowan had tossed and turned all night. Over the last week, he had no idea where you were or when you were coming back. He could’ve reached out to someone in town - one of your other family members, but he didn’t want to look like a fool. Like an idiot who didn’t bother to ask. Like what he was. 

Aelin was right that they were busier than usual, and had been for the last few months. But, they had a free day this weekend - and you knew that, but still chose to leave. They’d cleared that night for you, to get back and spend time with you. When they got there - he could hear you packing, and bitter anger started simmering inside of him. He thought you were running away at the first sign of trouble. 

First, you said they never had time for you, and when they did have free time - you left. It pissed him off. If he was being objective, he could see where you were coming from. He’d sworn to himself he’d make it up to you, when things calmed down. Gods, you’d moved in - at his and Aelin’s insistence - so they could spend more time together. 

You were younger, and hadn’t settled yet. Maybe he was an idiot - still thinking in years and decades while you were thinking in weeks and months. Three months to him was nothing. But … you didn’t have the full grasp on immortality yet. 

Regardless, you were back now - and safe. There’s no gods-damned way he’d let you leave that bed anytime soon. Not until you were completely healed and whole. He propped himself up on one arm, Aelin dozed fitfully next to you, one arm slung over your waist, her front pressing into your back, wrapping herself around you like she might shield you from the world. He brushed a few strands from your face, frowning at the small abrasion on your temple. He’d missed that, but it was mostly healed now - just a light pink scratch in its wake. 

In the morning, he’d say his apologies when you woke. You needed sleep now. 

-

“Y/n,” Aelin called, brushing her thumb against your cheek. You let out a slow breath, but didn’t open your eyes. Your heartbeat was still strong, breaths still even. 

“Let her sleep it off,” Rowan advised, already pulling a shirt over his head. They’d cleared their schedule as much as possible - only one meeting they wouldn’t be able to miss. He’d already arranged for sentries to be posted at their doorway, with orders to let nobody but them, Fenrys, or Aedion through. Two hours, and they’d be right back at your side. 

“Are you sure?” She asked, glancing up at the clock. It was nearly eight in the morning, and you’d knocked out around eight last night. In all honesty, if you’d woken up right then she would’ve said fuck it to the meeting. Even though the meeting had been called because of what happened yesterday. Her blood began to boil again. Aedion had assured her they were searching for the ones that had done this to you. And bringing them back - alive. But, given your cousins were on the hunt she couldn’t say what state they would be in. Fae can be especially ruthless where their family was concerned, and the three of you were close. 

Aedion stood in the door, partially blocked by Rowan’s figure as she ran a hand over your hair, smoothing through some of the tangled strands. She was surprised you’d even let her help you take a bath. Maybe you were too exhausted to protest. Aelin would’ve preferred for you to yell - to scream, anything besides the quiet silence you’d returned with. 

“Edde and Ella are guiding them.” She knew those names - your cousins. “I made them swear to bring them back alive.” Aelin almost laughed that he’d made the two females promise. 

“Let me know as soon as they return.” Rowan instructed, and slammed the door in his face. 

“That was rude,” she said absentmindedly. 

“He can handle it.” Rowan countered, stopping at the edge of the bed. She glanced up at him, but his expression was unreadable. Aelin reached out and squeezed his hand. They were both keeping a thin lid on their anger. 

“Yes,” he sighed, dragging her back to the present. “Her body needs rest.” 

Aelin pressed her lips to your forehead, running a thumb over your cheek. “We’ll be back soon, love,” she murmured - as if you might hear, and tucked the blankets tightly around you. A thought had a fire roaring in the corner. You needed to stay warm. It was still early autumn, but a chill had set in overnight, the temperatures dipping to just above freezing. Clouds had rolled in overnight, putting an end to the sunny few weeks they had. A wicked storm was brewing outside. Not uncommon for this time of year, but it felt like a bad omen. 

-

Rowan could tell Aelin was forcing herself not to sprint back to the room. They’d made a tentative plan - check on you, then grab a healer to come do a more thorough check. Something they should’ve done last night, but he couldn’t stomach the thought of anyone else near you in that vulnerable state. He’d barely kept his cool with Aedion in the doorway. Only knowledge of your friendship with the male and his blood oath to their Queen kept him from ripping his head off for being too close. 

Aelin pushed the door open ahead of him, spotting your form still sleeping on their bed, in the exact position they’d left you in. Something was wrong. You should’ve woken by now - or at least moved. You always tossed and turned in your sleep. But … you had been rather still last night. His pace picked up, overtaking Aelin as he yanked the covers back.

“Y/n.” He called, running a hand down your arm. Cold, your skin was cold. The room is warm - a fire still burning in the corner. Panic rose inside of him - your heart was still beating, breaths still even. He shook your shoulder lightly. He called your name again - louder. Aelin did as well. No response. Nothing. 

Aelin had darted for the door, he vaguely heard her shouting something at one of the guards in the hallway, the sound of other footsteps pounding down the hallway, but he couldn’t take his gaze away from you. Your lips, pale and cracked slightly. 

“Wake up sweetheart,” he tried keeping his voice gentle this time. Nothing. He shook you again. “Wake up,” his chest tightened, throat constricting. 

“Rowan,” Aelin’s voice vaguely registered, and he felt two hands cover his, holding them still. Aelin’s face came into his view, everything else blurred out around it. “Don’t shake her.” A pure command, rolling from his Queen. He didn’t bother masking any of the emotions in his face, he couldn’t - not now. 

He called your name again instead, Aelin slowly pushed his hands away from you. They hung limply at his side. His magic had checked over you at least three times and he couldn’t find anything. Why hadn’t he gotten a healer last night? Why weren’t you waking up? He should’ve asked about the cut on your head. Or have woken you up during the night to check on you. How many hours had he spent staring at you? 

He let out a low snarl as a healer stood in the doorway, turning to block her view of your body. 

“She needs her help,” Aelin said - gentle but firm. Reluctantly, he tore his gaze away from the healer and took a few steps away. The woman wasted no time rushing towards you. Another healer came in behind her. And another. He tensed at all of the new people - all surrounding you. Touching you. 

“Rowan.” Aelin snapped, and he met her eyes. “I don’t like it either. She needs help.”

When was the last time Aelin had been the voice of reason? Perhaps she was more in touch with her human side. 

“Reign it in or leave,” one of the healers - a female with a no-nonsense tone and stature barked. He pulled his power back in, unaware he’d let it reel from him. His eyes never left you, as he stood with his back to the wall. Centuries of self-control went into keeping himself in place. One wrong move and -

“Rowan,” he heard Aelin snarl. Reluctantly, he tore his gaze away from you to look at her. Keep it together. They’re helping. 

He took a few deep breaths. 

-

“We need water and clean towels.” The healer in charge announced. One of the younger ones went to move, but she held up a hand and sent a knowing glance to Aelin. Rowan had been a live fuse next to her. 

“Rowan, go get them.” She gave the order, but not pulling on the bond. She’d already had to do that once, to get him to stop trying to shake you awake. His eyes narrowed at her, but he listened. He needed something to keep himself from murdering everything within a foot of you. A basic command, to make him feel useful - to serve in the way Fae males needed.

She did wonder how she was the reasonable one in this situation. Not that she was feeling very reasonable. One threatening move from the healers … and she wouldn’t be responsible for what happened to them. The three of them were very aware of how on edge the two were. The one in charge was Fae, the other two humans - and seemed to be taking cues from her. Only focusing on reigning in Rowan kept her from losing her calm. 

This kind of fear … only when she’d almost lost Rowan those years ago - when he took the arrow for her, had she felt something similar to this. That’s when she realized he was her… Gods. 

No, no, no, a voice inside of her head screamed at her as she dropped to her knees, fingers digging into the carpet. Why now? When she was … The healers hadn’t turned to look at her. Nobody could see the war or anguish in her mind. Rowan returned, abruptly shoving the water and towels into one of their arms before he was at her side, arm wrapped over her shoulders. 

“I know fireheart,” he murmured. He doesn’t. He doesn’t know. A hand gripped her chin, and dark green iris’s met her own. “It’ll be fine,” he said with such conviction she believed wholeheartedly. It had to be. She wouldn’t accept any other alternative. 

-

You were in a murky fog, voices blurring over, shapes coming in and out of your vision. You spun in a circle - but it was all consuming. Was this your mind? Had it been scrambled somehow? Last you remembered, you were being tucked into bed by … you couldn’t put a finger on who. Then darkness. A sleep so heavy it pulled you under within seconds. 

Turquoise eyes ringed in gold. You focused on them, trying to pull yourself out of this abyss - towards the colors you recognized so easily. Who did they belong to? You couldn’t remember. The fog covered them again. Gone. You deflated. Would they come back? 

-

Fenrys frowned from the doorway. Rowan was pacing, the carpet looked worn where he walked back and forth. Everyone was on edge in the castle. In Orynth really. The scouting party sent word earlier that they’d arrive with the three remaining combatants tomorrow. When he told Rowan - a steely glint he recognized came over the male's eyes. He couldn’t find it in himself to feel bad for them, they’d deserve everything coming their way - and more. They knew who they were attacking. It wasn’t a secret you were Rowan and Aelins partner. 

 In all honesty, he’s surprised those were the only injuries the three of you sustained. Well, you were the only injured party. Eighteen against three. For humans, the odds would seem astronomical - and likely whoever it was had underestimated the fact that they were going up against well trained Fae warriors. Given how sweet and innocent you look, they probably thought you were an easy target. But, you’d seen the thick of the fighting in Orynth and survived ten years in Erilea with the Wolf-Tribe. 

The healers had given you ten days. Ten days before they feared there might be some kind of irreparable brain damage. 

More than anything, he wanted for you to wake - to be healthy and whole. Mainly because you were his friend. But, based on his conversation with Aelin the other night … there was more at stake. Once she told him, he realized the blood oath tugged a different kind of loyalty towards you as well. 

“Fenrys,” he heard her. He was still in Wolf form by their door, standing guard. Something he did without having to be asked. He blinked three times, using the old code from years ago; ‘are you alright?’

Two blinks, ‘no.’ She pressed her back against the wall, glancing up and down the corridor, before slowly lowering herself to the ground. He hadn’t seen his Queen look this lost in years. She had something to say - something she needed to, and he patiently waited for her to speak. 

“I hadn’t felt like this since Rowan took the arrow for me, and that’s when I realized …” Her head fell into her palms. He knew exactly what she meant. Fenrys shifted into human form, taking a seat beside her. “Is it even possible? Is this some sort of cruel joke? Is this my punishment?” 

She was bearing her heart, throwing it out on a platter. 

“It’s possible.” He answered her first question. The others, he didn’t know how to respond but … he tried. “Having a mate is never a punishment.”

“But .. Rowan.” He could hear the question; ‘is Rowan hers too?’ 

He leaned his head back against the wall, kicking his legs out in front of him. “Based on his … behavior. I’d be surprised if she wasn’t.” 

“Isn’t this typical for Fae?” 

The protectiveness, the desire to protect those they consider theirs, when they’re protective and vulnerable. But, he’s known Rowan for decades, and he’s only ever acted this way with Aelin. “It is, but he’s acting the same way he does with you.” 

Tension left her body in a giant wave. “What do I do? Do you think he knows?” 

Fenrys stilled. Whitethorn would know - he’d at least have a vague idea. He settled on, “he probably knows.” 

Aelin looked at him, waiting for him to answer her first question. “When have you ever let anyone tell you what to do?” He teased her. She rolled her eyes, and he could’ve cheered at the normal gesture. Something besides misery and pain.

“I was asking for advice, asshole.” 

Fenrys forced himself to focus back on the present. The healer looked like she was about at his limits with Rowan. She shot Fenrys a pleading glance. He really did admire her patience. 

“I’ll stay with her.” He heard Aedion from behind him. Backup, that was good. Rowan turned slowly, eyeing both of them with a predator's glance. Finally, he nodded at Aedion - giving his permission. If you were awake to see this, you’d probably rip him a new one. Giving permission for anyone else to be around you. If - when, you woke, you’d be in for a whole different world of territorial nonsense. 

Fenrys decided to take some initiative, and taunted Rowan. “You’re getting rusty, cooped up in here,” and shot him a shit-eating grin he knew would provoke a reaction. Sure enough, Rowan stormed out the door, jerking his chin for him to follow. Aedion shot him a sympathetic glance, and he elbowed the male harshly in the ribs. Although he told Aelin her husband probably knows, he’s not going to be the one to bring it up to him. That’s a journey they’ll have to take for themselves. For now, he’ll do his best to taunt some of the rage out of him - maybe make him more tolerable for the rest of them to be around. 

One thing Fenrys knows he’s good at, the best at, is pissing his royal Highness off. 

-

“Just come back.” A male said to you. The fog cleared slightly, and a blurry face peered down at you. A male with turquoise and gold eyes. Everything else blurred in and out, but the colors stayed. You could nearly feel the pain inside of them. “I know you’re mad at them, but they love you. They’ve been losing their minds, we all have.” You can’t remember who you’re mad at, or why. 

“Edde and Ella are hunting them down. They’ll be back tomorrow.” 

The names sparked something in you. A vague splinter of memory you tried to hold on to. Like water, it slipped through your fingers. You tried to speak - to scream, but your voice disappeared in the fog. The eyes withdrew from your view. 

-

“Can she hear anything?” Aelin asked - her voice still tight. 

“We don’t know.” The healer dismissed herself. 

She was tired of hearing that. We don’t know. We’re not certain. We can’t tell. 

Day seven. Three more days, the healers had given you three more days until they feared the damage was irreparable. 

But … they didn’t know how strong you were, not like she did. You’d survived ten years in hiding - you’d survived that last battle, the ambush - three against eighteen, survived dealing with her and Rowan’s bullshit. She refused to accept this kind of ending, refused to lose her mate - even if you didn’t know it yet. 

She imagined all of the concerns you might have, and all of the ways she would tell you you’re wrong. When you woke, she wondered if the bond would snap for you immediately. Probably not. She hasn’t found a good chance to approach Rowan about it - but she thinks he knows. And that he’s aware she does. Very little gets by him. She told Fenrys because she had to speak to someone, but saying it to Rowan felt too real. 

Aelin wouldn’t lose you. But knowing and having loved you, no matter how shitty she was at it, was better than never knowing you at all. 

She squeezed your hand. “Come back,” she pleaded, “please.” 

Her thumb gently traced your cheekbone. Cold. Over her shoulder, the fire was still going strong. There’s so many blankets surrounding you, she feared you might suffocate if she added another. Neither she or Rowan had slept well in the last week. They slept in shifts, always wanting one of them to be awake in case anything changed - in case you woke. The others ran the castle, letting the two of them get away with making an occasional appearance. 

They’d somehow managed to keep what happened underwraps. And they would - until they got their answers. Tomorrow, their new guests would arrive. Along with the rest of her court. She hated that she’d have to divide her attention away from you - to share her attention with anyone else. 

The ever changing scent hit the door, followed by a gentle knock. She tore her attention away from you, heavy legs carrying her to the door. 

Lysandra knew better than to try and come in without invitation. Even though the shifter was one of her closest friends, she still battled against her instincts to tell her to go the fuck away. 

Worry was evident all over the shifter’s face as she glanced at your form, surrounded by a mountain of pillows and blankets. Aelin couldn’t stop the small snarl beginning in her throat. Too long. She was looking too long. Quickly, Lysandra drew her attention back to her, and she shot her an apologetic grimace. 

“Any change?” 

Aelin shook her head, tears building in the corners of her eyes. She let Lysandra take her in her arms, hold her close and tight. 

“She’ll come back.” She didn’t sound too convinced. Aelin abruptly pulled back. 

“Don’t say that if you don’t mean it,” she snapped, and then winced, opening her mouth again. 

“You don’t need to apologize.” Lysandra said quickly. 

“No. I’m being unreasonable.” Aelin ran her hands down her face, looking back at you. She could still hear your heartbeat. Strong. Lysandra’s eyes dug into her. Her friend was always too perceptive. “Don’t say it,” she pleaded without looking at her. Of course she knows. 

“Is he…” 

“I think so,” Aelin interrupted her before she could say the actual word. Mate. Even thinking it brought pain - launching right through her chest, ripping it in half. “I don’t want to talk about it.” 

“Alright.” Lys’s tone said she very much believes she should talk about it. She’d tell her exactly where she could shove her beliefs if she pushed any further. “You need to go beat the shit out of someone.” Her friend said instead. 

Aelin slowly turned her head over her shoulder, raising one brow, “are you volunteering?” 

“I’ll find you a volunteer,” she winked at her, before heading out the door. 

“Get Aedion,” she shouted after her. 

Aelin flexed her hands. Maybe getting out some of the rage would be good. Fenrys and her cousin had alternated taking the brunt of her and Rowan’s pent up frustration and rage. She highly suspected they didn’t trust anyone else to take them on and survive the encounter. She looked back through the open doorway. You’d come back, she knew it. 

-

“It’s been ten days.” You heard a voice. Ten days, you’d heard that over and over again and knew it related to you. 

You had ten days to ‘come back,’ you’d figured out that’s what you needed to do. 

“Tell me how,” you’d screamed into nothingness. “I want to, help me” But you were lost, wandering around in this blurry half-reality. Voices and faces came in and out, words coming in fragments, sometimes in sentences, but nothing concrete. 

“We’ve done everything we can. It’s time to consider if…” 

Cries and screams; you’re wrong, she’ll come back, get the fuck out. Doors slammed. 

Two faces swarmed above you, clearer than before. Turquoise ringed with gold. Green. A name. They kept repeating a name over and over again. 

“Please, love,” a feminine pleaded. 

“We need you,” the male one added. 

“Help me,” you begged, “help me. help me. help me.”

-

Twelve days. The healers were still working with you - keeping your muscles from atrophying, pushing nutrient dense tonics down your throat, checking your vitals, using magic to test for other things. 

Brain activity, you still had that - but they couldn’t tell how much. Or how much of you would be left when you returned. 

The head healer sat down next to her, catching her attention. 

“What?” Aelin tried to keep her voice gentle, but had a feeling she failed miserably. To her credit, the woman didn’t look ruffled. 

“The only way she’ll come back now is if she wants to. She needs a reason to return, your Majesty.” 

The woman left before Aelin could ask any more questions. 

-

“The only way she’ll come back now is if she wants to. She needs a reason to return.” 

You wanted it, now you needed to find a reason. You paced, or at least you thought you did, in this mental prison. 

Isn’t wanting it reason enough? There’s something to return to. Names fluttered through your mind. You’d repeated them to yourself over and over again, unwilling to let them go. 

Edde. Ella. Fenrys. Aedion. Aelin. Rowan. 

The last two felt the strongest. You didn’t know who they were, but knew they needed you. If you disappeared completely, it would hurt them. Would hurt all of them. 

You glanced down at your arms, spotting the fresh white scar slashing one of them, and another smaller scar on your thigh. Others littered your body in various places. You’ve fought before, but not like this. Pitting your mind and will against whatever abyss this is. 

If it’s an abyss … maybe you need to build a ladder to climb out. You imagined strands of turquoise, gold, and green swirling in front of you, forming a link. As you reached out, they disappeared on touch. Frustration wouldn’t help you now. You would do this. You wouldn’t accept any other option. 

-

Fenrys leaned back against the wall in the dungeon, watching Rowan work before him. Lorcan stood to his left. He wasn’t surprised the male had shown up. He wouldn’t let Elide go anywhere alone, not since there’d just been an attack. Or in general. He wasn’t phased by anything Rowan was doing before them. Or what Aelin had done earlier. 

They’d gotten their answers days ago, now it was vengeance. 

“She’s their mate.” Lorcan said under his breath, so only he could hear. Not a question. Fenrys didn’t comment. Rowan was enacting the kind of wrath only a mated male could. The three males had already begged for death, several times. He didn’t feel pity, or any inclination towards mercy, but if he did he wouldn’t dare interrupt. Only a fool would. 

Part of him wondered if Rowan was making up for time he didn’t get to spend with Cairn. He wasn’t stupid enough to ask the question. Besides the attack on you, they’d learned several other vital bits of information from the males. At first, they’d made the mistake of bragging. Of what they planned to do to you - speaking to each other. Others might’ve called it stupid to keep them together, but the demi-Fae guards posted could hear every one of their ‘whispers,’ and the things they’d reported made him sick and furious.

They were on day thirteen. The healers said ten. Rowan and Aelin wouldn’t give up. Others had started thinking in if’s, but they refused.

Lorcan nudged him, jerking his chin towards the door. He took one more glance at Rowan, still occupied, and followed. 

“What is it?” He crossed his arms as they left earshot. Lorcan had a … look on his face. Strange, considering the bastard usually never showed any kind of emotion. Worried? He wasn’t particularly close to you, and had only met you on a few occasions. 

“Do you think she’ll wake?” 

“Yes.” He replied instantly. “There’s no other option.”

Lorcan let out a slow breath. “If they lose her …” 

“I know.” 

They might lose their Queen and King too. Everyone had thought of it, even if nobody dared to voice it. 

-

It wasn’t improving as quickly as you’d hoped it would. But - you could feel it. It was a physical thing, living and sentient almost. You let your fingers run over one of them, colors swirled together and shined. It was warm to the touch, and slid easily over your fingertips. You wrapped your hand around it, and it held firm. You reached for the next. It held. 

With the next one, you brought your hand up, your foot settling into the bottom ledge. It was working. You refocused your breaths and tilted your chin up. Endless mist covered your vision, only seeing where your hand landed next. 

Trust, you needed to trust that you could pull yourself out. Trust someone would be there to catch you. 

-

Aelin knew she was sleep-deprived, and figured the rustling from the room was a hallucination. She’d heard it several times while slipping out the door, only to rush back in and find you in the same position. 

Day twenty. Twenty days of hell, of waiting. There wasn’t anything she could fix, she could only hope and trust you were doing what you could. Gods, she spoke to you as much as she could. Aelin read books, talked about everything and nothing in hopes you would hear. There was only one subject she’d refused to approach, refused to speak aloud. Would that be the key? Could that be the reason you needed? The one that the healer had mentioned. She hadn’t told Rowan about the conversation … she swallowed harshly, and pulled her husband aside. Maybe now was the time to do it. 

Rowan read the look in her eyes and kicked everyone out of the room. 

“The healer told me that it’s … that she needs …” 

“She told me too,” Rowan interrupted her rambling. He gave her a tight smile, and pulled her into his chest. His chin rested on top of her head, and she leaned in to hear her heartbeat. “Are we going to acknowledge it?” 

She leaned her head back enough to meet his eyes, and took a breath before she said the thing haunting her mind for the last twenty days. “That we have another mate?”

Rowan nodded. She could see the relief flooding over his features, and imagined the same was showing on hers. He leaned in and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “This doesn’t mean I love you any less.” 

“I know.” She huffed out a laugh. You had two mates waiting for you, when you get back. Two who will burn the entire world down to get you back here if they had to. “We’ll get our mate back.” 

-

Mate. You blinked as you heard the word. So soft you almost missed it. Aelin and Rowan. 

You reached another hand, and could see the next ring, and the next. The world cleared around you. 

Soft cloth and fur covered you, you twitched your fingers - you could feel it. It was real. It had to be. 

Your eyes opened, and you shut them quickly. Too bright. 

A few seconds later, you squinted and slowly let yourself adjust. 

Gods, how many blankets did one person need? Your entire body was heavy and slow, but you managed to wiggle out from under the cloth mountain, making it to the edge of the bed. Had you been alone this entire time? Had you imagined Aelin and Rowan? 

Maybe a stranger had found you and brought you back. But … the room was familiar. Maybe this was another dream, a new reality your mind trapped you in. 

You let your feet hit the soft carpeted floor, pressing yourself up to stand. You felt surprisingly steady and took a few tentative steps. 

It was sunny outside. Gods, you needed to feel the sun on your skin - even if it’s fake, even if this isn’t real. 

Your hand gripped the doorknob, slowly opening the door to the balcony. A chilly wind hit you and you wrapped your arms tightly around yourself, ignoring the cold biting at your toes and skin as you took a step out. Based on the sun, it’s about mid morning - at least in this dream world. You wandered towards the railing, letting your hands travel over the wood - worn with time but still strong. 

Orynth, you recognized the city. Maybe this could be real. But if it was real … wouldn’t Aelin or Rowan be here? Or had they just shoved you in here out of obligation. Maybe the word mate was a figment of your imagination as well. Your mind telling you what you want to hear. Footsteps filled your ears and you whirled around, bracing your hands on the railing behind you. 

-

Rowan stilled. He could’ve sworn he heard a door open. But … lately his mind had been playing tricks on him. Him and Aelin both. He pressed a kiss to the top of Aelin’s head. Now that they’d actually said it out loud, it felt like there was a lot more to lose. 

Twenty days. There wasn’t any change - but at least there wasn’t any deterioration. He wouldn’t give up hope on you, he couldn’t. Gods, he couldn’t lose you. Fuck. 

He took a step back, running a hand over his face. They’d been out of the room for maybe ten minutes, but he still felt like he needed to have eyes on you at all times, lest he miss something. Even if it’s just a twitch of your fingers. Rowan would give anything for that - for any kind of movement. Your eyes had twitched behind your eyelids at some points, and he knew you were dreaming or seeing something. It gave him hope. 

“Let’s go back in,” he murmured, and Aelin led the way back towards the door. She cracked it open and froze, breaths coming heavier, before she shoved it back open, turning to him with pure alarm on her face. He pushed past her. 

Gone. The bed was empty. Impossible. Nobody could get in here - they’d been right there. Right outside. 

The balcony door was cracked open. Aelin spotted it a second before him, and he’d never seen her move faster. He was right on her heels. Pure terror and dread filled him. Has someone taken you? They could cover a lot of ground in ten minutes. Why the hell had he left you alone? 

He barely stopped himself from crashing into Aelin. 

You were there. Hands braced against the wood railing, eyes wide in confusion. Awake and standing. Your brows furrowed as you saw them, shoulders tightening. 

“Not real,” you murmured to yourself. His heart dropped to his stomach. You looked vaguely like a cornered kitten. They would have to be very careful, considering how close you are to the ledge. Subtly, he let a shield of wind surround them, one that would push you back if you somehow fell past over the edge. 

“It’s real,” Aelin whispered, taking a few steps towards you. He fought the urge to rush over there and grab you, to tug you away from danger. You panicked and confused. He should’ve been there when you woke, to see your pretty eyes open again. To tell you how much you mean to him. How he’s thought about you every second. How he never should’ve let you leave on those terms. 

You didn’t move towards them, but didn’t try and make more space, and Aelin took that as a good thing. She slowly walked towards you, and he followed a few steps behind. 

Aelin stopped a few feet away, and held out her hand. 

Ten seconds passed. 

Your gaze switched between her hand, Aelin’s face, his. He held his breath. 

Ten more seconds. 

You took her hand with a cautious smile and tentative hope on your features. 

“It’s real,” he repeated Aelin’s words from earlier. He watched your fingers squeeze, and you took another step forwards, closer. Aelin’s other hand came up, brushing against your cheek. Rowan watched as you melted into her touch, eyes closing as you let out a little sigh. 

His knees hit the floor, tears openly streaming down his face. 

[coraline-jones353]

The Hottest guy on the team

Prompt: Baseball Au where Henry plays travel baseball and one of his teammates has an attractive sister who watches the games.

I feel like Henry would be a great baseball player ngl. Also can anyone catch the reference to a song I snuck in here?? 😂

Summary: What happens when Henry sees a competor flirting with his y/n. Will he finally admit his burning crush for his teammates sister or will he let her get flirted with right in front of him.

Warnings: Lose of a championship, little bit of violence, little bit of a forbidden relationship, jealous and protective Henry, use of y/n, no pronouns used 🫶🏼

Fluffy and some angst

Every summer boys with a love and talent of baseball would join the Riptides traveling team. They went to most of the neighboring towns and states, traveling to beat the teams. They were undefeated until someone missed the winning home run on a championship game aswell due to being .... a little distracted.

"Yo Hart! You're up to base next, get your helmet on." The coach yells to the hottest guy on the team. I look up from my phone to watch and stare as I see Henry take some practice swings. He's unbelievably hot but my brother would kill me if I even tried anything, I've known Henry since I was 12. I'm now 15 and have had a raging crush on him for 3 years.

Henry goes up to the base, swings 3 times; my lucky number I've told him, and hits it! He runs all the way to second base before having to stop. I watch him fondly basically drooling as my brother would say.

As I'm staring at Henry I see the second baseman for the other team wink at me. He must have been thinking I was looking at him, but I know it would be weird if I was staring at Henry so I kinda play along. It doesn't matter, I think to myself, I'll never see him again, besides he's kinda cute.

Henry sees this flirty exchange between me and the guy that's next to him. He glares at the baseman.

The next time Henry is up to bat, it's the last inning; with the score being tied. If he gets a home run he will win the game for his team. But should he not his team will surely lose. He had to concentrate, but that guy, #16, keeps looking at me, staring at me like I'm a piece of meat. He can't stand the way that guy looks at me.

Instead of hitting that home run Henry instead hit #16 square in the face. Causing the Riptides to lose the championship this year.

I ran over to Henry asking why he hit him and all he could say was, "I didn't like the way he was looking at you..." while avoiding my brother's stare.

"I don't like people looking at my-" "at you the way he was. It was inappropriate and disgusting." Henry says recovering from almost calling me his girl.

"Henry, are you... jealous?" I ask walking towards him. "What! No why would I be jealous of that creep." he says defensively. "You so are! You're mad he winked at me and did the call me signal at me!" I say almost yelling from the sudden realization I just had. "Just drop it y/n!" he yells before storming off to his car.

Later back at the camping grounds after my brother had fallen asleep, I sat outside on the porch, looking at the stars, admiring from afar.

Henry slowly walked up to me before sitting down. He leaned his head against my shoulder saying nothing but it meant the most. It meant that I was right that he liked me back, it meant he wanted to be with me, but it also confirmed my fear that he couldn't unless my brother would agree.

We sat in silence that night just happy with each other's presence.

The next day I woke up to my brother and Henry fighting. Andrew was yelling something about "it would be weird!" and Henry was yelling "but it shouldn't be up to you! I was just asking outta respect!"

I groggily got out of my bed fixing my appearance before walking out into the room. "What the hell are y'all on about at 7 am in the morning on a Saturday!" I yell mad about the sleep I could have been getting. Henry locks eyes with me and I've never seen a look so intense.

He strides over to me and kisses me. It's nothing I've felt before. It feels so right but so wrong; especially since my brother is standing there, mouth agape. The kiss just feels right, the way he possessively pulls my waist to him, the way he plays with my hair with his other hand, the way his lips are as soft as the clouds. I think I could die now and be happy for eternity knowing I kissed the hottest guy on the team's lips.

Sincerely, Coraline Jones 🐈‍⬛

[dyns33]

Sentimental weather

A little Morpheus x female reader

I'm less and less good with titles

It was raining.

No, the word was not strong enough.

It was a real torrent, a storm, a hurricane outside, and no one around Y/N seemed to care.

It must have been that, and the fact that she had found herself in this weird and unfamiliar place when she opened her eyes, that she hadn't been worried for more than a minute, before running under a tree to take shelter.

A raven seemed to have had the same idea, even though he thought it stupid, as he let her know.

"It's dangerous to stay under a tree during a thunderstorm."

"Oh, really ?" replied Y/N, who had the feeling that it was not normal for a raven to be able to speak.

"Yeah. Lightning could kill you. But you can't die here. Well, I don't think so. People can die while sleeping, but I don't know if it kills you for real to die in dreams. The boss says that we're real, but when someone is injured while sleeping, they're fine when they wake up, so I'm a bit lost. I have to say, he doesn't explain very well."

"Ravens have bosses ?"

"Not ravens. Me. I'm the raven, thank you. I'm here to assist the boss. Although I'm not much use at the moment. It's kind of his fault too, he doesn't listen. He's stubborn and sensitive. I've been told this isn't the first time this has happened. I really wish the rain would stop, it's been weeks now."

If his boss didn't explain well, the raven wasn't really any better. He continued to complain about the weather, until Y/N woke up. It seemed perfectly logical that this was all a dream, and she didn't think about it for the rest of the day.

But next night, when she opened her eyes again after falling asleep, she was still near the castle, in the pouring rain.

She was a little surprised, but as if it were normal, she went back under the tree, where she found the talking bird.

"Well, you're back." he noted. "And you don't listen to my advice. Just like him. I've been trying to talk to him all day, but no ! It's still raining."

"I don't understand the connection between your boss and the rain."

"It's because he's sad that it's raining. I mean, I can try to understand. He was in love, I think, even though it had only been a month and she wasn't great. I didn't like her at all personally. He struggles with feelings. Words, people… He struggles. He's had a lot of problems. But it's been weeks now, he has to pull himself together and listen to his good mate Matthew ! I can't fly in his conditions !"

As the raven, Matthew, continued to speak, Y/N looked up at the balcony of the castle and saw a man staring at the horizon, standing in the rain and looking terribly sad.

He must have been the famous boss.

Remembering that it was only a dream, and therefore not caring about the consequences of her actions, Y/N ventured towards the castle despite the raven's protests. Still without thinking, she went to the balcony, finding herself next to the man who was causing this storm.

"Hello." she said simply. "Matthew says you're sad and that's why it's raining."

"Matthew seems to say a lot of things except what relates to his job. He has to report when a dreamer gets lost so far."

"I'm not lost, you can't get lost in a dream. I know perfectly well where I am."

"Really ?" asked the man, without turning to her. "And where do you find yourself, little dreamer ?"

"In my bed. Unless I'm sleepwalking, but I don't think so."

"You think, you're not sure. You are wrong, we can get lost in a dream, and get stuck. Better check where you are."

Y/N then opened her eyes, in her bed, as she had said. The rest of the day passed without her thinking about this dream.

When she found herself again in front of the castle, under the storm, she did not go to join the little raven, who sighed when he saw her pass in front of his tree.

Still in the rain, still staring sadly at the hoziron, the boss made no comment as she came to stand next to him.

"Hello again. I was right, I was in my bed if you're interested. Anyway, Matthew talked about heartbreak. Look, I don't pretend to understand how you feel, and maybe it's not my business, but still, you have to move on. It's difficult, okay, but as the poet said, it's better to have loved and lost than never to have loved. That's life, you have to live."

This time, the man looked at Y/N, and seeing his eyes, she understood that he was not human. There was something powerful and ancient in his starry eyes. There was also something else she couldn't decipher.

"… I said something similar once, to someone very dear to me." he whispered in a strange voice.

"Well, you have to know how to follow your own advice. Of course it may take time and you can ask for help, but I promise you that everything will be better soon. You deserve it. I don't know you, but you make it rain for love and a raven is worried about you, so you must be nice deep down."

The boss continued to stare at her with a strange look, impossible to read, between admiration, surprise, vexation at having been partially insulted and what looked a bit like love. But that was probably not it. Anyway, Y/N didn't ask, too busy waking up. Again, the events of the night didn't really affect her day.

Except maybe when a raven came tapping her window while she was preparing dinner. She looked at it for a long time, wondering if it was a trained raventhat had gotten lost and was asking for food, but without opening.

"Impolite !" he shouted when she didn't open, concentrating on her saucepan.

"… What ?"

"Crude ! Mean ! Reckless !"

"You can talk ? Are you… Matthew ?" she asked as she let him in, unable to remember when she had gone to bed. Because it had to be a dream.

"Yes, it's me. Sorry, I shouldn't have gotten upset, I forget it's weird to see a talking raven. Thanks for opening up, and remembering my name. The other never remembered it, she was mean."

"The other ? Who?"

"The previous one. Look, I guess you didn't do it on purpose, and I'm quite glad the sun came out, but… You could have been careful, really. We didn't need that."

"I understand absolutely nothing."

"Lord Morpheus isn't sad anymore, thanks to you. Hooray. Except not totally, because… He's in love again."

"Really ? That's a good thing. With who ?"

"Who do you think, Sherlock ?" sighed the raven, staring at her.

"… Oh."

"Yeah, oh. So be nice, you've seen what happens when he's down, please don't break his heart."

"But he doesn't exist. You either, I'm dreaming."

"… Shit. I did well to come. So I'll say it quickly, I'm real, Lord Morpheus is real, what happens in dreams is real, you're not crazy, and my boss is madly in love with you now. Digest the information quickly, please."

Just because the raven said it didn't mean it was true, Y/N could be dreaming or losing her mind. But all the same, dreaming of the same thing four days in a row was not completely normal.

If she decided to believe Matthew, it involved a lot of things and questions she would ask him later. Because there was more urgent.

"… He loves me ? Me ? Why ?"

"You are a beautiful soul, noble and pure, wise, who will perhaps appreciate his company despite all his faults. End of quote."

"That's a bit quick, isn't it ? I don't know him at all, you just told me his name."

"Well, that's not bad enough. Some people get married without even knowing that. If he asks you, say yes !"

"Matthew. Stop it immediately."

The raven jumped with her, moved in front of Y/N as if to protect her, before looking genuinely frightened when he saw his boss, Lord Morpheus, standing in the middle of the living room, the arm crossed and looking displeased.

Obviously the little emissary had not asked permission to come here.

"Hi, boss ! I'm… I was…"

"Again saying things you shouldn't. Leave her alone, go back to the Dreaming and help Lucienne in the library."

"Yes, boss !"

Not wasting a moment, the raven immediately flew out the window. Lord Morpheus watched him disappear into the clouds, before slowly turning towards Y/N. Again, it was hard to know what he was thinking.

"My apologies for the intrusion, and the pressure. Matthew shouldn't have acted like that, but he's impulsive and protective, he thought he was doing the right thing."

"… Is it true that you are real and that you love me ?"

"I heard that these two facts were not very clear." he sighed, looking suddenly embarrassed. "I want to do things right, so I intended to woo you, so as not to rush you, and so that you can know who I am. But if my advances are not welcome, a word from you and I will leave."

It was a way out. It was touching of him, because as he said, Matthew talked a lot, and Matthew said a lot of things that might have made Y/N think it wasn't a good idea to hang out with Lord Morpheus.

He was a complicated being, who had trouble with feelings, people, who was dramatic, stubborn, sensitive, with a difficult past, both in general and in his romantic relationships.

But so were many other people.

"Matthew couldn't tell me if we died in real life after dying in a dream." was Y/N's response. "You said we can get lost, so…"

Lord Morpheus considered what she had just said, understanding that it was an invitation to stay, chat with her, and possibly start his court if he wished to. He smiled slightly as he began to explain to her, and Y/N then realized two things :

It wouldn't be difficult to fall in love with this man, as dangerous as it could be.

Matthew was right, he didn't explain very well.

[sturnad]

NIGHT SHIFT p2

Pairing: y/n and Chris Sturniolo

Summary: a girl that just started working in a local cafe in her small town and a boy who just moved into her town because of his dads job.

Warnings: none

I couldnt sleep for the whole night cause I kept thinking of him. I hugged my pillow and stuffed my face in it. I let out a small sigh as i felt my eyes close. And suddenly I was asleep.

-

The next day - I woke up in the morning and rubbed my eyes, back and forth. I slowly rolled out of my bed and stretched while letting out a big yawn. I spotted my clock in the corner of my eyes. "Shit-" i said as i quickly started throwing some clothes on. I had a morning shift today and totally forgot to set the alarm. I quickly got ready and rushed into my car outside. I started pulling the handle of my car door and realized i forgot my car keys in my apartment. I quickly ran into the building and went to my apartment, unlocking it aggressively. I picked up the car keys and stormed out of my apartment after locking it.

I drove off to the cafe all stressed out. When I arrived I rushed in and all of the other workers were already there. "Where have you been?" "Youre late." some said with a tone. "Im really sorry guys I totally forgot im working a morning shift today, i- im sorry.." i said while my breathing speed increased. I almost ran out of breath from all the running around. Everyone glared at me and then returned back to their work. I quickly ran to the changing room and changed in my uniform and apron. I came out and started taking some orders.

As I was cleaning up a table i noticed that boy from yesterday sitting in the corner of the cafe behind the table for two. He was with someone older, probably his father or someting. I got all flustered again just by looking at him. After I finished up with cleaning that table i walked over to them awkwardly.

"Hello, may I take your order?" i said politely while waiting patiently.

"Yes hello." his dad spoke as he cleared his throat. The boy kept glancing at me. "Im gonna have a cappuccino and a croissant" his dad said. I nodded and wrote it down. "And Ill take some waffles please" the boy said. I smiled at him as I wrote down his order.

-

I made their order and brought it to their table. As I began placing the coffee on his dads side of table my hands were trembling a bit so I spilled a drop of his coffee accidentally.

"Oh shoot Im really sorry I-" before I could finish my sentence his dad yelled at me. "What the fuck. Be careful, what is wrong with you?!" I trembled at his sudden change of voice and tried apologizing even more but it made it worse. Tears started fulfilling my eyes. "Im really sorry Ill clean that up for you now.." i spoke as i stormed off to get some paper to clean the mess up. The boy started running after me..

"Hey, hold up!" he said. I turned my head around with watery eyes.

"Im so sorry about my dad, are you okay?" he spoke with concern in his eyes. "Ye-yea im fine, thanks.." i respond.

"Are you sure, you seem stressed.."

"Yeah i was just late for work today and im a bit freaked out.." i say.

"Oh.. do you need a hug?" he said. Even though he was a stranger I totally fell in love with i really needed that hug. I nodded and opened my arms for a hug. I fell into his arms, he wrapped his hands around me, patting my back. Later on we both pull away. I smiled at him and thanked him. He smiled back and calmed me down.

"Hey btw are you from around here?" I said out of curiousity. "Im asking out of curiousity, I mean its a small town so I know everyone but Ive never seen you.."

He chuckled and replied "No um me and my dad moved here a week ago cause of his job.."

"Oh thats great, do you like it here?" i asked.

"Its nice.." he nodded. "I actually go the county technical high school here in Cape May" he added.

"Really? Omg me too! How old are you?" i said with excitement.

"Im 19, you?" he responded. I said im 18.

"So were both seniors after the summer break huh?" he said flirtatiously. I nodded. "Yeah, Ill see you soon?" i asked. He nodded and winked. "Hell yeah. Im Chris btw", he smiled, i nodded.

"Im y/n" I said, he smiled and went back to his table, I came over and cleaned the mess i made before.

-

After my shift i went back home and I COULD NOT WAIT for the summer break to end so I could see him again in school.. very unusal for me to think that but fuck i couldnt wait for school.

TAGS:

@imwetforyourmom @slut4mattsturn

@junnniiieee07 @uhnanix @pxndaaa

@thebottledwatersupplier @h3arts4harry

OMGGG WHAT DO WE THINK?? I honestly dont think its that bad. PART 3 COMING OUT SOON!! Love yall <3

[witchygagirlwrites]

Broken Bonds- Pt 3

Former (ish) Greg "Mouse" Gerwitz x Reader, one night stand Jay Halstead x Reader

You and Jay finally tell the unit after he breaks a perps jaw for hitting you

Warnings- Cursing? Slight mention of violence and needing therapy

No matter what position you turned to you couldn’t sleep. Maybe it was the thunder outside, threatening to bring in a storm or maybe it was your mind that refused to slow down. Since you and Jay made the decision to keep the baby you’d made another follow up appointment with Dr Asher to get on her schedule for regular prenatal care but asked for her latest appointment slot available each time. When you explained the need for discretion, thankfully she was understanding considering you were one person who hadn’t judged her when she hit her low point.

You hadn’t heard from Mouse since two days before you’d taken the pregnancy test and every day that passed was like a weight sitting in the back of your mind. Jay promised you that it was normal. They went weeks out in the field where they couldn’t contact the outside world and considering Jay was his point of contact he’d be the first to know if something went wrong. That didn’t stop your fears, mixed in with having to tell Voight and everyone else you knew about the baby and face all the questions…

You wanted to scream and probably would if it wasn’t for the fact that Stella and Kelly both would probably break your door down to get in your bedroom to make sure nothing was wrong. You’d thought your sister was protective before? Yeah that was nothing compared to her knowing she was going to be an aunt and Kelly was getting just as bad. He’d bitched at you for carrying groceries and your duffle up from your jeep instead of calling him to which you’d responded “For fuck’s sake Severide I am pregnant not crippled”

You loved them being protective you really did but you didn’t want to feel smothered or this pregnancy would feel like a prison sentence. You had nearly dozed off when your phone chimed from the table next to the bed. You fumbled for it, praying it wasn’t just another spam email. When you clicked the screen your heart nearly stopped beating when you saw it was an email from Mouse.

You pushed yourself up to a sitting position and quickly realized your hands were shaking when you clicked to open it. How’s my favorite detective?  I spoke to Jay when I managed to wrestle the sat phone away from Stevenson and he said you were freaking out a little about the radio silence. I’m ok. I promise.  It gets a little crazy over here but nothing we can’t handle.  Don’t be worrying about me too much. I couldn’t live with it if you got hurt because you were distracted over me. You’ll see me again, I promise you. Take care of yourself and I’ll call when I get back to base whenever the hell that may be. Your favorite Mouse

You hadn’t realized you were crying until the drops hit your phone screen. Fuck these pregnancy hormones were a bitch. You were bad enough hearing from him before them but now? This felt like your heart had been ripped out of your chest. You and Jay agreed that he couldn’t know until he was stateside. It was too much of a distraction risk. If he got hurt or killed because of this? You felt a sob rip out of your throat. “I’m sorry” you whispered and wasn’t sure if you were talking to Mouse, the baby or simply your own heart. You pulled your pillow against your chest and whispered again “I’m so sorry” 

You wanted to send him a message back but your hands were shaking too bad to type. You sat staring at the phone that lay in front of you on the bed opened to the email.

You weren’t sure how long you sat like that but you must have dozed off at some point because the next thing you knew Stella was knocking lightly at the door “Hey sweetie, you up?” you jolted awake and looked at the time. Fuck, you slept through your alarm. “Yeah Stel” 

She pushed the door open and you figured you looked how you felt from how her eyes widened “Oh baby girl. Rough night?” you pushed yourself out of the bed and nodded towards your phone “I still haven’t emailed him back” she walked in and closed the door before walking over to the bed and sat on the edge of it, reading the email while you quickly dressed. Once you slipped your boots on and jacket on she held your phone out “At least he’s ok?” she offered with a small smile. You nodded “Yeah”

You sat down next to her then opened the email back up and typed Nice to hear from my favorite Mouse! I don’t mean to worry but I can’t help it, radio silence scares me. I don’t want anything happening to you, even if you say it’s nothing you can’t handle. I won’t be distracted, promise.  Don’t worry about me, I haven’t found a new place so I’m still at Stella and Kelly’s so you know big sister is keepin an eye on me. I’m holding you to that promise to see you again and I look forward to that phone call as much as you look forward to a hot meal and actual shower at base. Your favorite detective 

Stella read it and nodded “It’s good. Sounds normal” you hit send and as soon as it went through your phone lit up with Jay’s number. She smiled “At that I’m gonna go. Me and Kelly are headed in. Call if you need anything” you nodded “Love ya” she kissed your cheek “Love ya” she walked out so you swiped to answer Jay’s call “I had a long night and overslept is why I’m not in yet” 

He laughed lightly “Nice to know but not why I was calling. I heard from Mouse” “Yeah I know” you grabbed everything you needed as you held your phone between your ear and shoulder then walked out of your room. You looked longingly at the coffee maker but the doctor's order was to cut back so you were trying to be good. “What? How?” you shrugged and almost dropped the phone “Shit” you managed to save it and pulled it back to your ear “He emailed me” you walked out the door and locked it before heading for the stairwell.

“Oh ok. He told me he may get a chance to email you but didn’t know so I wanted to tell you he was ok” you didn’t respond while you walked down the steps and made it out to the cool air outside. You took a deep breath then said “I fucking cried myself to sleep after getting the email Jay. Next time wake me up after he calls for a warning please. We’re partners and that term is taking on a whole new meaning in about, what,seven months or so?” 

His voice softened “I’m sorry Y/N I didn’t think” “Its ok Jay, really” you walked over to where your jeep was parked and unlocked it before climbing in. Next to the polaroid of you and Mouse now sat a little black and white ultrasound photo. It was barely a blip but it was there. A part of you felt like you should choose between the two photos being on your dash but the other part knew you could never.

“I’m in my jeep. Voight pissed?” you asked and Jay chuckled “You do realize your late is still early to everyone else?” you laughed at his teasing, feeling a little of the darkness in your mind lift “Good. Go get your growing spawn some food before it eats my backbone” “Yes ma’am” He replied with another laugh before hanging up.

You looked at the ultrasound again and thought about the day you and Jay had gone in for that first appointment. ”This is insane” he whispered as you both cleared corners of the hallway like it was a hostage situation and you were going in. You shot him a glare “I thought we agreed we don’t have to tell anyone until I’m good with it..shit Crockett” the two of you ducked into a janitor’s closet.

He sighed when you bumped into his chest, given the close quarters “And this will raise less questions” you shrugged “I panicked?” he shook his head and laughed lightly “It’s ok. I get that this is not how either of us expected our lives going but we can handle this. Now let’s get out the closet and make a dash for the stairs. You go take point and I’ll cover the rear so no one follows. Meet at the target” a small smile slipped onto your face at him taking like it was a takedown. “Ok, sounds good”

—--------

Once the two of you finally made it to the office the nurse who let you in the back raised an eyebrow when you were both laughing. “Mrs Kidd?” you shook your head “Miss Kidd” she smiled “Apologies, right this way ma’am” 

She led you to an examination room and passed you a gown. “Get changed and dr Asher will be in soon” You cut your eyes at Jay who nodded “I’ll be in the hall” the nurse smiled slightly “Little too late for that daddy” you rolled your eyes before you thought of the concept of your manners. “I’d rather protect her comfort level over anyone else’s.” Jay told her with a smile that you knew was forced before shooting you a wink and stepping into the hall.

She looked back at you “Just knock when you’re ready” “Yes ma’am”

—------------

After the initial examination to ensure everything was looking good she offered an ultrasound to see the baby and hear the heartbeat so you asked the nurse to send Jay in because he shouldn’t miss that. He walked and despite herself Dr Asher’s eyes widened “Detective Halstead” “Discretion” you repeated and she nodded “Of course. I apologize, Detective Kidd”

Jay walked to the head of the bed and took the stool she offered to sit next to you. She wheeled over the machine and smiled at you both “Let’s hear the heartbeat shall we?” you and Jay both had your eyes glued to the screen as she clicked a few buttons and started moving the wand around on your stomach.

She pointed to a little grey ball on the screen that honestly favored a tadpole over a human “There’s your baby” then clicked a few more buttons and a sound like a hummingbird's wings filled the room. You cut your eyes up at Jay in enough time to see his tear up just slightly before he swallowed “That’s the heartbeat? They’re strong?” she nodded with a smile “As of right now, very. There’s still some time before I’d say you’re out the initial danger zone and anything could happen but that is your baby’s heartbeat”

You listened and felt your heart flip at her words. Your baby. Fuck. You were going to be a mother. “Jay, I’m so damn scared” You admitted and he slid his hand into yours, giving it a tight squeeze “I am too but I’m here, for everything I promise” Dr Asher smiled “Would you both like a print out?” you and Jay both nodded “Please?”

You shook your head to clear your thoughts. You needed to get to work. 

You were sitting shoulder to shoulder with Hailey going over phone logs and surveillance photos of two perps the unit had been chasing for the better part of the last two weeks. Jon Limos and Eris Henderson.They were wanted for arson which had resulted in three deaths. Finding them was proving to be more difficult than you’d previously thought. 

You rubbed a hand over your face and she cut her eyes at you “Are you ok?” “Yeah. Didn’t sleep much” she nodded towards you empty coffee mug “Want a refill?” you shook your head “No thanks” you’d had a cup, anymore in one sitting and Jay may hide the coffee for the hell of it. 

A ping chimed from your computer and you grinned “Hails. That’s a hit on their phone!” “It is?” she asked and you nodded “I picked up a thing or two from Mouse. Go get the boys and Kim. We got an address. We need to roll. Now”

—-------------

“What the fuck were you thinking?” you were working to not yell at Jay. You would be lucky if Voight didn’t suspend one or both of you after his stunt. He sat in the driver’s seat of his truck, silent as he drove back to the precinct. “He hit you” he offered and you threw a hand up “No shit! Didn’t mean you had to almost break his fucking jaw. What the fuck was that? Some weird caveman protective bullshit because I’m carrying your baby? Because if that’s baby daddy Jay maybe I made the wrong decision keeping it”

He cut his eyes at you and you saw a mixture of anger, worry and fear there. “Don’t say that Y/N. Don’t fuckin say that because I know you don’t mean it. You’re angry with me yeah but you don’t regret keeping the baby” you sighed “No but damn are things going to get weird Jay?” he shook his head “No. I promise, it’s not that”

You turned as far as the seat belt would let you to face him “Then spill because we’re almost back and Voight is going to rip us a new one” He slammed his hand against the steering wheel “FUCK” you didn’t flinch because regardless of his temper Jay would never hurt you even before this, instead you reached a hand over to gently touch his right arm “Talk to me”

When he turned his head you saw the tears “I don’t regret keeping the baby and I will be there every step of the way for you and them for the rest of our lives. No matter what” “But?” you asked and he sighed, shoulders falling “He’s my best friend Y/N. When I didn’t have anyone I had Mouse. He pulled my ass out the gutter and got me home when Will didn’t even bother. He trusted me to take care of the love of his life and what did I do? I fucked you instead”

“Oh Jay” you whispered as he pulled over and parked, tears flowing in earnest. You hadn’t often seen Jay cry but every time it broke your heart. You unbuckled and moved over, pushing the console up to pull him into a hug. You’d been so wrapped in your own guilt you hadn’t considered his own, not to mention the label he was worried about from any army buddies. He wrapped his arms around you, face buried in the bend of your neck. “I’m sorry Y/N. I fucked everything up. It was my idea to open the bourbon”

You barely caught the whispered words but managed to and felt even worse. He’d been carrying the weight of that alone to keep it off of you. “Jay, we both fucked up. Neither of us fucked up more than the other. We were in pain and alone and hurting and drunk and found comfort where we shouldn’t but it happened”

You pulled back and reached up to gently wipe the tears off his face “We have a baby that’s gonna need its mom and dad both to keep their heads about them and their detective shields because babies are really expensive. I miss Mouse too and the guilt is eating me alive but we can’t let it bleed into our job or it’s gonna get to the point he will figure something out. We both know how smart he is. We eat our guilt to keep him from being distracted in a dangerous place then deal with him hating us when he’s back stateside”

He nodded slowly “Thank you” you smiled “Of course. We’re partners after all” you scooted back over in your seat and buckled up “Now let’s go to the precinct. It’s time to come clean to Voight” His eyes widened “You don’t have to do that to save my ass” you nodded “I know but its time. I’m what? Fourteen weeks? They’re gonna notice” he laughed lightly “Yeah Ruzek mentioned your boobs getting bigger. “I’ll kill him!” you laughed as he pulled out onto the road.

—--------------

The moment you and Jay stepped foot onto the floor of the intelligence unit you heard Voight’s voice boom out ‘HALSTEAD, KIDD. MY OFFICE. NOW!” you cut your eyes back at Jay before stepping in front of him to be the first in Hank’s door. Hailey gave you a small smile as you looked back before closing the door.

You sat down across from Hank and Jay sat next to you. Hank looked between the two of you “Someone want to explain?” You took a deep breath before saying “Jay is going to schedule an appointment with the therapist to start back for the anger outbursts aren’t you?” he nodded “Yes…I am”

Hank knew something else was up, you could tell from the look on his face “I can maybe keep this out of the ivory tower given the fact that the side of your face will be purple for the next week or so Y/N but Jay, man you haven’t lost it like that in years. You two have been acting funny. What's up? Tell me nothing and I swear I will suspend you both”

Jay cut his eyes at you telling you that he was giving you the lead on this. You took a deep breath before saying “I’m pregnant Hank” 

For a second you were fairly certain he short circuited.He blinked, looked at you then blinked again. “You and Mouse split and besides you would be near the finish line if it was his so can I ask?” you cut your eyes at Jay before he took the cue to say “I’m the father” that was the point you were certain Hank short circuited ‘WHAT?”

You and Jay gave him the bullet points of how you’d ended up pregnant with Jay’s baby. “So let me get this straight. You two are having a baby but plan to just raise it as friends?” you shrugged “It beats parents who are together and miserable doesn’t it?” he nodded slowly then sighed “Congratulations. Explains Jay’s outburst. I would be protective over the woman carrying my child, friend or not. Who all have you told?”

“My sister, Kelly, Dr Asher and you” you replied with a shrug and an honest to god smile slipped onto his face “Number four? I’m honored” Jay chuckled “Better be grandpa. My dad’s dead so is hers so um..” he cut his eyes at your stomach and Hank started laughing “Grandpa? Really Jay?” you laughed “C’mon Hank! A little mixture of me and Jay chasing you around” he faked a shiver “Sweetheart I hope like hell its a girl. Two of you? I’d love. Two of Jays? God help us all”

Jay started to act like he was offended then stopped and shook his head “Ya know what? He does have a point?” Hank looked up towards the window where neither of you had pulled the blind down to see everyone was staring “If I’m Grandpa better go break the news to the rest of the family” You laughed when everyone pretended to act busy when they saw they had all three of yours attention “Jesus. Jay, text Will to come to the precinct. I’m calling Stella to come be my emotional support. If I’m doing this its gonna be a one and done thing” he nodded and pulled out his phone.

You went to stand up and Hank called your name so you looked back and he nodded towards your stomach “Anyone and I mean anyone says anything out the way to you come get me and I’ll handle it” you smiled “Ok grandpa” he shook his head “Get out of here Kidd”

You were sitting on top of Kevin’s desk because it was the central one with Stella on one side and Jay on the other as you told Will, Kevin, Adam, Kim, Hailey and Trudy. After some raised eyebrows and rightfully the same questions Hank had the lot of them exploded talking over each other. 

“Can I be called trutru?” Trudy asked. “Oh I’m gonna be the favorite uncle easy” Kevin announced and Will looked offended “Hello? Biological uncle?” “Yeah and? I’ll be the fun one Kev” Adam argued. 

Kim and Hailey however walked over to you “Are you ok?” Kim asked and Hailey added “This is a lot mentally and will be physically too” you nodded slowly “I’ll handle it” They both wrapped you in a hug “Anytime day or night. Call” Hailey told you with a smile. “We mean it” Kim added with a wink at Stella before adding “We’ll be competing for second favorite aunt”

Will cut his eyes up at you and Jay then nodded off to the side of the room so you slid off the desk and followed him as Jay did the same. Stella joined the gushing now that she had someone besides Kelly to do such with.

—---------

Once you were out of ear shot of everyone Will looked from you to Jay “You two know I’m thrilled to be an uncle and Y/N you know I love you” he gave you a hug before pulling away “But?” you asked and he looked at Jay “What happens when Mouse does come home?” “I don’t know Will. My goal is to make sure he doesn’t find out while he’s over there. I don’t want something happening while he’s distracted, neither of us do. We never exactly set out for this to happen” 

“Oh I know, I know. Well you know I’m here for you both” he hugged you again then Jay before saying “Crap, I gotta get back to the hospital. Can I take you two to dinner?” you shrugged “Sure. Just text me the place and time. I’ll meet you two there” he smiled “Sounds great. See you later”

You and Jay walked back over to the group and Stella slipped an arm around you and whispered in your ear “It’s gonna be ok. Mouse isn’t gonna find out while he’s deployed” “The guilt is breaking me and Jay. He broke a perp’s jaw then broke down”  you whispered back. Her face fell for a moment then it brightened “Maybe you both should go to therapy? I mean Dr Charles doesn’t judge about anything and can’t repeat anything. You don’t need to stress being pregnant and Jay doesn’t need to break any more jaws” 

You knew she was right. “I’ll call him as soon as I get off shift to schedule an appointment and make sure Jay does the same” she kissed your forehead “That’s my girl..now what is this about Voight being grandpa?”

Part 4

[whoistartaglia]

Congrats on 1500 followers!!🥳👏

I was thinking only 1 bed with Al haitham, childe, dottore, and scara? Maybe they went on a mission and needed a hotel for the night. Both of you decided the same room but 2 beds. The hostess mixes up 1 room 2 beds with 1 room 1 bed. You or (character) didn’t check the tag but knew the room number, so you guys went in and your checks went red. Tried to explain the plot to the best of my ability! -💫

thanks for the submission! i’m only doing two characters per request, so i just picked the first two.

trope: only one bed

including: al haitham, childe

al haitham.

“they don’t have any other rooms,” al haitham says by way of announcement, opening and closing the hotel door behind him.

“oh… that’s okay,” you say.

you glance at the bed—the only bed—in your hotel room. it’s large, maybe enough to lay side-by-side without touching… as long as you remained completely still the entire night.

“you take it.” you turn back to al haitham, who’s already grabbing a throw blanket off the bed and tossing it to the floor. he tosses it on the ground, but before he can grab a pillow you rush to stand infront of him.

“oh al haitham, please stop.”

“you’d have me sleep on the floor without a pillow?” he raises an eyebrow. “that’s cruel.”

“no, that’s not it! you can… sleep on the bed. it’s okay.”

“and where will you be sleeping?”

you swallow uncomfortably. “…on the bed.”

al haitham’s eyes widen by a fraction. you rush to explain: “it’s only one night. and besides we’re friends, right? it’ll be fine. and besides, you can’t sleep on the floor, and i don’t want to.”

about a half-an-hour later, you’re both settled uncomfortably on both sides of the bed, as far away from each ow we ther as possible.

“tomorrow, we’ll get a better hotel.”

“tomorrow?” al haitham asks. “tomorrow we’ll be at home.” oh. had it been a week already? you supposed the bulk of your mission was over. though you hadn’t really wanted to go, you find yourself not wanting to travel home.

you wanted to stay like this: traveling with al haitham, exploring the world, solving its mysteries. when you got home, it was likely you wouldn’t see him that much, if at all.

“i wish it was longer,” al haitham whispers, echoing your thought. you turn over, and find yourself staring at him. his eyes are close, but flutter open when he feels your gaze.

“me too.”

“maybe we can do something like this again?”

“adventuring?”

“being this close,” al haitham clarifies. you nod, and he launches into a rambling about your mission, future adventures, his studies, anything and everything, like he’s stretching out the night, if he can make it last longer.

you find yourself drifting off to his voice. when you wake up, you’ve somehow entwined yourself in his arms. you smile, feeling about bout of sleep overtake you. later, you’d have to make the last leg of the journey home, and go through everything that happened… but for now, you allowed yourself to enjoy al haitham’s soft breathing, the sun coming in through the curtains, and the peacefulness of the moment.

childe.

“you’re sleeping on the floor.”

“no, you’re sleeping on the floor.”

you and childe have been going at this for the better part of an hour now. you meant to start the travel back to snezhnaya tonight, but were stuck in monstadt due to a thundering storm outside. this inn was the only one left, with only one room, with only one bed.

you sigh through your nose and hold up your hands. you’re not getting anywhere; you’re both too stubborn.

“we will both sleep on the floor,” you decide.

childe laughs out loud at that. “you mean you will. i’ll be on the—“

you cut childe off by throwing your bags, wet from the downpour outside, on the bed.

“what did you do that for?” childe demands, snatching the bags off the bed and tossing them to the floor.

“now we both can’t have it.”

you grab your sleeping packs out of your bags. you put childe’s on one side of the bed and yours on the other. he grumbles and doesn’t try and fight you as you blow out the lights, and finally settle down to sleep.

or, at least, that’s what childe thinks. once you hear him snoring—an entire hour later—you creep towards the bed, careful to avoid each creaky floorboard. you touch the comforter; it’s slightly damp still, but no matter. it would dry soon. you quietly settle yourself into the center of the mattress, and within a few minutes you’re asleep.

when you wake up, it’s still storming outside, maybe even harder than before. you needed to get home, but traveling in this weather… no, that wouldn’t be an option. frustrated, you turn over and bump into—

“childe?” you yell, sitting up straight.

he lazily blinks his eyes open and smiles up at you. “good morning.”

“what are you doing on the bed?” you ask.

“what are you doing?” childe shoots back. “looks like you broke your own promise to stay on the floor.”

“so did you.” you roll your eyes and flop back down. you and childe were too alike sometimes.

“well, at least we know one good thing.” childe stands up and gazes out the window. lightning strikes something far in the distance, and a clap of thunder sounds.

“what?”

“tonight, we can both sleep in the bed.”

[melanieph321]

Ruben Dias/Trent Alexander Arnold x Reader - Dark Rivarly Part 1/15

Yeah, y'all ain't ready.

Don't even think you're ready cuz you're not.

Part 2 and 3 are already out on my Patreon for FREE!

Reader is Trent Alexander Arnold's twin sister. The two have been inseparable since childbirth, more so now when Reader is fresh out of university looking for a job, crashing at her brother's place whilst doing so. One day Reader gets a job offer that she cannot refuse, however it would mean working for her brother's biggest rival in football, Ruben Dias. 

Enjoy!

"Y/N!"

It was six in the morning and Trent was already shouting.

"Y/N!"

You groaned, grabbing a pillow and smothering it against your ears. His footsteps emerged from down the hall and just like when you were kids, he had no respect for your privacy.

"Y/N, did you take my....."

He yanked the door open to the sight of you pretending to be asleep. He gasped, seeing you wear his Liverpool knee socks.

"I knew it, you fucking..."

Or to you they were knee socks, perfect for sleeping in.

"Hey?"

You twisted in bed, kicking your feet as you were suddenly being attacked.

"Aha. I knew you were bluffing." Trent exclaimed, and continued yanking the socks off your feet. "How about you buy your own clothes rather than stealing mine?"

"Why would I do that when you wear the same size as a girl?"

Trent got the socks off your feet, however your words made his cheeks grow red.

"How about you stop treating my closet like a fucking shopping mall you homeless parasite!" He stormed out of the room to the sound of your laughter. You had definitely struck a nerve.

"Technically, I'm not homeless. I'm job hunting." You said, after getting out of bed, entering the kitchen to make yourself some breakfast. Trent was washing the dishes, using the running water as an excuse to ignore you.

"I promise to be out of here once I get a job."

"And when will that be?" He muttered, shutting off the water. "You can't be job hunting for five years Y/N. How about we call it for what it is."

"Which is?"

His smile was spiteful. "Unemployment."

You pout your lips. "You're very mean whenever you have a game coming up, did you know that?"

He rolled his eyes, setting up the plates to dry. You watched him gather his things, getting ready to leave for the day. His team had a light training session ahead of their game tonight.

"Grandma will be at the train station at twelve." He informed. "Are you picking her up or should I give mom and dad a call, tell them to do it?"

"I'll do it." You nodded.

"Cool thanks."

"In one condition...."

He had turned around, reaching for the door handle. He sighed having to face you again, knowing damn well that whatever was about to come out of your mouth was not going to be to his benefit.

"What?"

"I'm going to need the keys to the Bentley."

"For what? To pick up Granny?"

You shrugged. "Take it or leave it."

Trent muttered under his breath, reaching for the keys in his pocket. It was amusing, seeing him give in so easily. The perks of being two minutes older than him. Technically you were twins, but on paper you were also his big sister.

He tossed you the keys.

"Have a nice day." You smiled.

He ignored you, slamming the door on his way out.

The silence that followed was soothing. Outside the sun was shining and you could simply feel it, the start of a wonderful day.

********************************************

"Grandma please, we're gonna be late. You don't need another Chanel bag."

You had spent all day tending to her needs. When the time came, getting your high maintenance grandmother to the football stadium was nearly impossible.

"You're late." Your patients said, stating the obvious as the two of you arrived at Anfield.

"Well, blame Grandma. She forgot to pack her scarf so we got her a new one, but of course the whole day then turned into a shopping spree."

Grandma was a retired seamstress, who still tended to a few shops where she lived in Manchester. Nevertheless fashion was her passion, some of it having rubbed off on you, however not as much that would make you run late to an inter-city football derby.

"How is Trent doing?" You asked,  searching for him out on the pitch. You spotted him in seconds, enjoying the fact that he looked cooked already. The game had only been running for twenty five minutes.

"Manchester City looks to be a real challenge this year." Your dad said.

"Good." You muttered.

Ever since you were a kid you had the habit of rooting for whichever team that Trent wasn't rooting for, especially if the game was shown on the TV, and his team was losing. Liverpool seemed to be losing big today. Their coach was seen gesticulating vividly on the sidelines, shouting at the players to get their shit together.

"What's he doing?"

At some point a fight broke out and you were grinning at the fact that Trent was involved. They'd usually have him somewhere in the back, playing on the right side of the pitch, during this game however, he was seen running around in the middle getting into more trouble than he should.

"What's he doing, ref!!" Your dad stood up and shouted in protest, along with other fans in the stands. It looked to be some of the City boys giving Trent trouble after a fair but hard tackle that he made on one of the younger players on their team. There was one guy in particular that seemed to be all up in Trent's face, shouting at him, deliberately giving him shit. At one point Trent must have had enough because he ended up shoving the guy, to little effect however because the guy was huge and immovable. Nevertheless, it was all downhill from that, Trent ended up getting booked by the referee and his coach must have decided it would be best to send him off quite early into the second half of the match. It was safe to say that Trent wasn't happy when your family returned home.

"It was that dickhead Dias fault." He snapped, having slammed every door that he had stumbled upon on his way through the house to the living room.

"Please Trent, it's just a game." Your mother said, trying to calm him down.

"Yes but why was I the only one that got sent off? The referee didn't even bother to book any of the City players that came at me. You saw it, didn't you Dad?"

"I saw it son. We all did. It was complete bollocks."

You snorted.

Trent frowned. "What's so funny?"

You shrugged. "I dunno, maybe when you tried shoving that guy but ended up falling back yourself. That was pretty funny."

"Y/N." Your parents sighed. Grandma however, slapped her knee as her head tossed back with her laughter, fueling your own.

"Oh, so this is funny to you?" Trent stood, his expression trembling with rage. "How about I shove you and then let's see who's laughing."

"Trent!"

Your parents held him back, nevertheless you didn't even flinch. Everyone knew that out of the two of you Trent couldn't fight.

"Y/N, apologize to your brother. He's had a rough day." Your mother demanded.

"So? It's a part of life. Sometimes we get booked, sometimes we don't."

"You think you're so funny." Trent said,  through gritted teeth. "Let's see who gets the last laugh."

A jolt of your heart. "You wouldn't."

He smirked. "Mom, Dad, Y/N has been lying to you about her internship in London."

"What do you mean?" They frowned. Even Grandma looked unsure.

"Trent." You warned him.

He ignored you.

"She's been unemployed for five years, crashing on people's couches. Her university friends must have gotten tired of her because she's been living with me for the past three months, eating my food, stealing my socks. She's never even offered to help pay rent.

"You didn't."

Trent was the only person in the room with a smile on his face, your parents on the other hand....

Part 2 and 3 are already out on my Patreon for FREE!

[oldwritingm]

Heyyy:))) I love your wir ihn soo muchhhhh and I wanted to ask if u could write a story Kyle x fem reader so basically she’s like sitting in a park at night and Kyle comes from sport or idk and meets her and they know each other from school and they like think they other one is cool and so they talk and her parents are not home and she can’t come home cause she has no key and that’s why they go to his home and she sleeps at the couche (his parents aren’t home ) but there’s a thunderstorm so she comes to Kyle and they sleep together in his bed ( NOT sexually) just cuddling 😍

Here you are my dove!

Word count: 1k

South Park - Staying at Kyle’s House During a Storm

You crossed your arms, huffing. You watched your breath—coming out as steam in the cold—float and fade into oblivion. Man, what am I going to do…

You were snapped out of your rumination at the sound of your name. You turned around to see Kyle Broflovski, a boy from your school, approaching the picnic table you were sitting at.

“Y/n, right?” He confirmed, cocking an eyebrow.

“Yeah, that’s my name. And you’re Kyle, right?”

He nodded with a little grin. “We have a few classes together, I think.”

“Oh, yeah. You’re the one who always knows the answer to every question. Honestly, I'm a little jealous,” you chuckled.

“Really? Most people just think I'm a nerd for that.”

“I think it’s cool.”

“Thanks, I guess. You’re pretty cool too.”

Then, glancing at the setting sun, he asked: “What are you doing out so late? It’ll be dark soon.”

You sighed. “I’m locked out of my place. My parents are on vacation and I completely forgot to get my key before they locked the house.”

Kyle hummed, going quiet. You fell back into your thoughts. Maybe I have enough money for a crummy motel or someth—

“You could come to my place,” Kyle suggested.

“Huh? Oh, I could never—I mean, I wouldn’t want to intrude or anything.”

Kyle waved his hand dismissively. You weren’t sure if it was just the cold, but you swore his cheeks went a bit pink. “It’s not a big deal. You could crash on the couch.”

You were about to decline again, but you noticed dark clouds churning on the horizon, and suddenly you were inclined to accept.

Luckily Kyle’s house wasn’t too far from the park. On the way there he entertained you with a rather humorous story from after-school tutoring. Apparently, the guy he was tutoring chewed his pen so hard that it exploded, dyeing his whole mouth black.

You giggled, imagining with pity the poor kid brushing his teeth relentlessly when he got home.

When you reached Kyle’s house, you decided to return the favor with a story of your own while you both sat on the couch. It just so happened that Kyle’s mother was in the kitchen as you told the story, and it tickled her so well that she came in to introduce herself. Learning about your predicament, she was more than glad to have you over for the night, and even invited you to eat dinner with the family.

Needless to say, the evening went quite well. When it was finally time to turn in for the night, Mrs. Broflovski piled you with so many quilts that you didn’t think you’d be able to move until morning. You could see Kyle trying not to laugh from where he stood in the stairwell. You shot him a discreet playful glare, which earned a little smirk from him as he turned to go to his own room.

You couldn’t have been asleep for longer than two hours when a soft hiss woke you up. It seemed that the rain clouds you saw earlier were fulfilling their promise of a storm; the hiss was coming from the shower outside.

You wriggled under the quilts, repositioning yourself before trying to get back to sleep.

A loud boom rattled you suddenly, and your eyes flew open. You could hear your heart pounding in your ears as you desperately heaved yourself out from your cozy entrapment and dashed up the stairs. You didn’t even think; you just ran, and in a moment you found yourself in Kyle’s room.

He was already awake, propped up on his elbows while he looked at his window. His head turned when you entered.

“What’s up?” He rasped sleepily.

“Th-the storm,” you stammered, quivering with adrenaline.

“Yeah, it’s getting crazy out there.” Then, realizing what you probably meant, he asked if you were afraid of it.

You nodded vigorously.

Kyle looked at the window, contemplating. “You wanna stay in here?” He was grateful that you couldn’t see the color on his face in the darkness.

You nodded again, a little slower. You looked around for a blanket, planning to sleep on the floor beside Kyle’s bed, but you were surprised to see him sit up fully and scoot towards the wall. He patted the mattress beside him.

You hesitated, but a flash of lightning made you lunge under the covers. You clapped your hands over your ears, already dreading the horrible noise.

Kyle was readjusting the blankets when the crash of thunder reverberated through the house. Small yips escaped both of you, and at the same time you grabbed each other.

With Kyle’s arms around you, and your hands clasping the fabric on his chest, you were both frozen, anticipating the next boom. You didn’t even have time to be embarrassed at this sudden intimate display; less than ten seconds later, another rumbling boom sounded.

You stayed like that for a long time, squeezing anxiously together, moving ever so slightly closer at each noise. You weren’t sure when exactly, but eventually you fell asleep.

When you woke up in the gray morning light, the first thing you noticed was the silence; more specifically, the absence of the hissing rain. You breathed a sleepy sigh of relief. The storm was over.

The next thing you noticed was the pajama shirt that your face was mushed into. You stared at it blankly as you tried to recall whose it might be.

“You awake?” The cracking morning voice of Kyle Broflovski filled your ears. Your face instantly went ten shades darker.

“Um, yeah.”

Kyle hummed, letting out a slow breath that seemed to show that he was still half-asleep himself. You pushed away a little, but his arms tightened around you.

“No, not yet. You’re warm.”

So are you. You thought assentingly, deciding that it couldn’t hurt to lay like this a little longer. At least until Mrs. Broflovski called you down for breakfast.

“Hey, Kyle?”

“Hm?”

“Thanks.”

“For what?”

“Staying with me.”

“Oh. No biggie.”

“Still.”

He didn’t respond; he had fallen back asleep. With an amused smile and pinkness lingering on your cheeks, you decided to follow his example.

Thank you for this request! And thanks for reading, have a good one loves <33

(divider by saradika)

[bobfloydsbabe]

what if i love you | eccentric professor!bob floyd x oc

a gold rush fic

SUMMARY: In the early morning hours, Imogen contemplates her relationship with Bob.

WARNINGS: academia au, fluff, angst-ish, power imbalance, age gap (mid 20s/late 30s). strictly 18+/minors dni.

WORD COUNT: 401

GOLD RUSH MASTERLIST

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A/N: I hope you enjoy this quick blurb I wrote for Eccentric Professor Bob and Imogen, where we get a rare insight into her perspective of their relationship. It's a vulnerable but sweet moment for them ✨

She watches him from the doorway of the ensuite bathroom.

It’s the early morning hours, light just starting to peek through under the curtains. Outside, a furious spring storm rages on, but in here, the sound of his heavy breaths fills the room. She smiles to herself as his chest rises and falls in a steady rhythm.

No one has ever made her feel as alive as he does. He might not say it, but she knows he values her opinion. Yesterday, when she presented yet another dissertation proposal, he fought for her, and she’s convinced it’s the reason they finally approved it. She’d been so angry with him afterwards, terrified everyone would know they’d crossed the line of professionalism–that he was only pushing for the approval because they have an intimate relationship.

She should have known it was a bad idea. That the sex would complicate things, and that getting to know him would change everything. She should have known, but she did it anyway. She still fell into his bed and got lost in his passion.

She crosses the room and climbs back under the comforter. Even in his sleep, Bob reaches for her. He wraps his deceptively muscular arms around her and brings her closer until her face is buried in the crook of his neck.

His lips find their way to the top of her head, and he places a gentle kiss there. “Mornin’,” he mumbles against her hair. 

She doesn’t fight the grin that spreads on her face. “Thought you were sleeping.”

“I was,” he says, voice still thick with sleep. “Then my girl left my bed.”

She cranes her neck upward, eyes locking with his. “Your girl, huh?” He hums and leans down, pressing his lips to hers in a soft kiss.

“Wish we could stay here all day,” he mutters.

God, she wishes they could too. Just the two of them in this bed, tucked away from the rest of the world. Hidden away from those who will judge them when they learn the truth. Part of her wants to quit as his TA or remove him from her dissertation committee, so they can be together without fear of repercussions.

It’s a distant and unrealistic dream, but she aches for it. 

“Me too,” she agrees, burying her face in the crook of his neck again and breathes in his scent. Leather and ink. Him.

likes are nice, but reblogs and comments are golden

TAGLIST: @joaquinwhorres, @kmc1989, @sweetwhispersofchaos, @roosterforme, @millieb-3199, @bobgasm, @attapullman, @bluezraven, @just-in-case-iloveyou, @bradshawsbaby, @bcarolinablr, @seitmai, @sio-ina-bottle, @fandom-princess-forevermore, @hangmandruigandmav, @solo-pitstop-vibes, @cremebruleequeen, @auroraseddie, @rosie-posie08, @cherrycola27, @keyrani

[callsign-magnolia]

Undiagnosed // Ch. 12

Jake Seresin x Neurodivergent OC

Summary: Katie Blair grew up trying to be the perfect daughter. She always struggled to be the prim and proper little girl her parents wanted. Big personality as a kid, but now at 25, she's the shy admiral's daughter who just keeps her head down and tries to get through law school. So what happens when she's had enough and with help from a certain Lieutenant, she gets out.

Warnings: Emotional abuse, trauma response, abusive parents.

Word Count: 6.4k

Chapter 11 | Masterlist

For the first week I was lost. The only reason I really got up was to feed Calypso which is what I named my new fish or to eat. I was still upset with Jake, or myself.I didn’t quite know. Part of me wants to ask him, but I couldn’t get a hold of him even if I wanted to. The other part of me is screaming that it’s not my fault he’s mad at me. He couldn’t be mad that I went to Phoenix’s. I left because of him and Kelly and I didn’t force him to lay on the couch and wait for me. But every day while I lay here I can’t help but think I did something wrong, and that’s the reason he didn’t wake me up. That I did something that pissed him off to the point he didn’t want to see me before he left for six weeks. My emotions were everywhere. One minute I was angry, the next I would cry, and sometimes I just didn’t care. If he didn’t want to see me, I don’t want to see him. There was one point for all of an hour I considered moving out but that was shot down quickly when I realized that I had no money, all of my friends were gone besides Kelly, and I probably couldn’t make it on my own if I tried. I finally dragged myself out of the bed roughly a week after they were deployed and went downstairs for lunch, seeing as I slept through breakfast. That’s another thing I realized, my sleep schedule is all out of whack. I usually get up when Jake gets back from his morning run, but without him here, I’ve been sleeping till all hours of the day. Once downstairs I opened the fridge and peered inside. I glanced through it and the freezer, finding we really only had vegetables and things for sides. No real food. 

I huffed and realized I had to go to the grocery store. So I stormed upstairs, pissed that my plans changed so suddenly. I didn’t want to go anywhere today. I wanted to stay here and finish up my last book and maybe find a movie to watch, but now I had to go to the damn store. I took what I thought was a quick shower, it was actually forty-five minutes. I was losing all sense of time. A simple shower and getting ready should only take me an hour or so, especially now that my hair is shorter. But it took me two hours to get ready. I simply blow dried my hair, put on some mascara in hopes I’d feel normal, and slipped on a light blue t-shirt dress. It was so hot outside today, I couldn’t even imagine wearing pants. I grabbed my glasses and slid them on before making my way downstairs. Jake told me a few days before he left that he was leaving me his credit card. I know he told me he was leaving it in one of the cabinets, tucked away but I couldn’t find it. I shoved my hand in every cabinet and even grabbed the step stool to look up on the top shelves. I was pretty sure Jake wouldn’t put it up that high but I had to check. 

I still hadn’t found it and I was so frustrated I could’ve screamed. I looked under the stack of mail, moved things around on the counter, wondering if it fell and after half an hour I still hadn’t found it. Rage bubbled within me. Where the hell did he fucking put it? It’s not like I could call him and ask where it was. I let out a yell of frustration and became even more angry when I saw the card and a note on the other side of the kitchen, tucked between the coffee pot and the wall. “I don’t know why the fuck he thought that was a good idea.” I sneered, slamming my hand down on the card and tucking it in my wallet before looking at the note. ‘Get whatever you want or need, darlin’. Plenty of money on it.’ I scoffed, crumpling it up and tossing it into the trash can. Darlin’ my ass. Even the nice words and the name pissed me off. I grabbed his truck keys and my purse before making my way out to his truck. I got in and shut the door, turning the ignition. The vents blasted hot air at first but then cooled down pretty quick. “Fucking mountain.” I remarked as I slowly moved the seat closer to the steering wheel. Once I was all situated I backed out of the driveway and drove out of the little neighborhood and towards the store. I was still mad, so much so I turned the radio off completely. I usually blast music but I just needed a silent drive. I was heading for the closest little market which was about fifteen minutes away. I didn’t want to be out longer than necessary. 

I leaned my elbow on the door and propped my head up as I pulled up to a red light. I sat there, waiting forever for the light to change and looked out my window. The car next to me looked slightly familiar, the silver color reflecting the sun off of it and into my eyes. But as I leaned over I caught sight of the familiar face of my mother. Thankfully, Jake’s truck sat higher than her car so as she looked out the passenger window she only saw the black exterior of the truck. I slammed back in my seat, hoping she didn’t just see me. My heart thudded in my chest and I squeezed my eyes shut as I attempted to calm myself. The honking of a horn made my eyes fly open and I slammed my foot on the gas, speeding off. Seeing my mother made me realize that I was about to go to the same grocery store as her and I quickly changed where I was heading. I drove an additional twenty minutes to the target on the north end of San Diego and felt a little better. I knew my parents never traveled farther than they had to, but I still felt uneasy. I walked into the store, opting for coffee from starbucks before I started my shopping. Although, coupled with the anxiety I just experienced it was probably a bad idea. But I didn’t care. I took my large coffee cup and grabbed a buggy before turning for the back of the store where the food sat. 

I couldn’t help but look over my shoulder occasionally, fearing one of my parents would be right behind me. I grabbed things such as ground beef, chicken, pasta, a few microwave or one pot meals. I took my time, scouring the aisles for anything I may need or want. As one person, cooking big meals was almost a waste so finding ways to cook single servings was the best way to go. With Jake I could make a full meal and he’d eat over half by himself. I left the grocery section, heading straight over to the book section and looked around every aisle. I found a few books that piqued my interest, one of them was called Twisted Love and the other, A Court Of Thorns and Roses. I was into older romance stories, Wuthering Heights, Jane Eyre, The Princess Bride but I felt like I should try something else. So I went for a more modern romance and a fantasy. I thought back to Jake’s note, ‘Get whatever you want or need.’ Smirking, I grabbed a few others that seemed interesting and went to check out. Once I paid I loaded everything into the car and decided to stop at Five Guys for a burger, fries and a milkshake and rushed home. The closer I got to the house, the more nervous I got. Seeing my mom made me realize I didn’t go far. Bumping into them is very much a real threat and now I understand why Jake was cautious about where he took me. 

Once I was home I rushed to get everything inside and locked the door behind me. I sighed in relief, knowing I was home and there was no way I could bump into my mother. Once everything was put away I sat on the couch with my food, deciding to eat while I watched a movie. One Natasha suggested was the Princess Bride. I had read the book dozens of times but I had never seen the movie. So I sat, ate and attempted to forget my mothers face. I thought I was totally safe here, but it’s not like I ran off to another country, I basically ran down the road. But as I sit here, a full stomach and my sweet tooth curbed, I can’t help but worry that my parents really know where I am. I tried to not worry, but it seems to be something I’m good at. Halfway through the movie I decided to lay down on the couch, maybe a nap would do me good. As the movie was coming to a close I could feel the exhaustion creeping in on me.

A loud bang woke me up and I jumped up in fear. The banging was coming from the front door, I could see it shaking from the force. I stared at it as I slowly stood from the couch, making my way over the window. I moved the curtains and the blinds only to see blackness. It was the type of black you see in underground tunnels and caves, you can’t see your hand in front of your face, the type that seeps into your bones and scares you to the core. I couldn’t even see the white railings that lined the front porch. The banging continued and I walked over,standing on my toes to look out the peephole. As I did so the banging stopped but I looked out the peephole to once again, find blackness. I sighed and lowered myself off my toes just as the wood on the door splintered and a large hand came through, grabbing the front of my dress and slamming me face first into the door before letting me go. I fell to the floor scrambling away from the door as the hand reached for the locks and turned them. The door slowly swung open to reveal my father. Everything was silent, save for my heaving breaths as I tried to breathe and fight the tears back. He simply stood there and I took the opportunity to get up and run. I went for the back door but it was gone. Why was it gone?! The garage door through the kitchen was gone as well and I panicked, rushing for the stairs. I would go into my room and lock the door before scaling down the lattice by my window. But as I started up the stairs my father was suddenly before me. His hand shot out before smacking me clear across the face and sending me head first into the banister before tumbling backwards down the stairs. 

Pain blossomed across my face as I sat up with a yell. I pulled my hand away to see blood on it and the carpet. “Oh, it was just a dream.” I sighed out. I heard my phone buzz and saw it was a facetime from Bradley. Excitement swelled within me and I immediately answered. “Hang on.” I called, standing and rushing to the bathroom with my phone. “Well hello to you too.” He remarked. “Everything okay?” He asked. “Yeah, I just had a nightmare and I’ve seemed to roll off the couch and I hit my nose on the coffee table.” I answered as I wiped the blood from my face. “Let me see?” He asked and I sighed, propping up the phone so he could see me. “Damn.” That’ll probably bruise.” He said. “I know.” It went quiet for a moment before he spoke up. “What was the nightmare about?” He asked. “My dad broke in. All the doors disappeared so I was forced up the stairs…” I trailed off. “Then he smacked me and sent me backwards down the stairs. I must’ve been moving around a lot on the couch and fell off, smacking my face on the coffee table.” I said. 

“How often do you have nightmares?” He asked. “I haven’t had them in a few weeks. But…” He raised a brow at me. “But what?” He asked. I chewed on my bottom lip. “I went to the store today and when I stopped at a red light… I saw my mom.” He was silent, his lips pursed in a line and I couldn’t quite tell his emotions. “Are you sure it was her?” He asked and I nodded. “One hundred percent positive.” “And did she see you?” He asked and I shook my head. “I don’t think so. At least, she didn’t look right at me.” I said. “Good.” He said and I walked out of the bathroom and into my room where I flopped down onto my bed. “Woah, your bed’s not made?” He asked and I shook my head. “Nope.” I was usually uptight about my bed. It had to be made or else I wouldn't sleep good. Sleeping in an already messy bed stressed me out for some reason. “Katie? How long have you been in bed?” He asked and a blush crept up my cheeks. “Don’t lie to me.” He added. “Today was the first day I really got up.” I answered. “God. Hangman is gonna lose his mind.” He said and I sat up. “You aren’t gonna say shit to him.” I said and he raised a brow. “He doesn’t get to know every little thing that’s going on with me, especially since he left without waking me, saying goodbye, nothing.” I spat. 

“I’m sensing some anger.” He said. “If you were getting deployed, and you asked someone if you should wake them up the next morning to go to the docks with you or at least say goodbye, would you do it?” He raised a brow as if that was a dumb question. “Of course I would.” He answered before he gasped. “Jake didn’t say goodbye.” I shook my head. “No, he didn’t and I can’t help but think it’s because he’s mad at me. But I didn’t force him to sleep on the couch and wait for me to come home.” I had started pacing at this point, my phone propped up on my pillow so he could see me. “Wait, what am I missing?” He asked and I realized he probably has no idea what I’m talking about. I flopped onto the bed, lying on my stomach as I looked at my phone. “The night before you guys left, I heard Jake and Kelly… having sex.” His eyebrows shot up. “That’s weird, Hangman says Kelly is always worried someone would hear and he can hardly get her to say a word in bed.” I brushed it off. “Yeah, well she didn’t seem to care that night. But I went to Natasha's for a while. I felt like I was intruding but I came back home really late and he was asleep on the couch.” Bradley hummed and nodded. “He didn’t seem mad when he got up. He asked if I wanted him to wake me up before he left and I said yes, but then I woke up and y’all were long gone.” I said, letting my head fall to my mattress. 

“Katie, I don’t think he did it out of spite.” He said and I huffed. “Then why else would he leave without saying goodbye? It makes no sense!” He shrugged. “I-I don’t know. It’s so unlike him.” He said and I heard a door open on his end. I sniffled, wiping my tears before they fell. “Aw, Katie. Don’t cry, please.” He said and I sat up, sitting cross legged in front of my phone. “Katie?” I groaned as I heard Jake’s voice on the other end. “What’s wrong? C’mon darlin’, talk to me!” He said and I scoffed, scowling and I flipped my phone face down on the comforter. “Katie?” Jake called. “What the fuck did you do to her?” I assume his question was towards Bradley. “What did I do? I think you might want to be asking yourself that, bagman.” Bradley snapped back. “Me?!” He asked, shocked. “Katie, darlin’. Talk to me please.” I knew it was childish, the way I was acting, but I knew if I even looked at him I would give in. “Katie, c’mon. You’re scaring me, I’m worried.” 

I grabbed the phone, flipping it over and glaring at him through the screen. He seemed to notice the anger in my eyes and leaned back in surprise. “Oh, you’re worried? Bless your heart.” I said before setting my phone back down. “Wha-You-” He stumbled over his words until he found the right ones. “You don’t get to insult me like that!” He called out and I rolled my eyes. “This is my call with her you know, not yours.” I grabbed my phone again. “Yeah, this is mine and Bradley’s call. So why don’t you find something else to do, without saying goodbye.” I snapped and Bradley snickered at Jake’s confusion. “What?” Bradley laughed at him. “Just leave us alone, Jake. I don’t want to talk to you right now.” I said and Bradley snatched the phone. “Yeah, she doesn’t wanna talk to you.” He said, walking out of his and Jake’s room. “You know he’s going to pout all day.” He said and I rolled my eyes. “Let him. Like I care.” I spat and he just grinned at me. “You know you care.” He said and while I wouldn’t admit it, I do hate making Jake feel bad but I’m so angry with him. “Can we change the subject?” I asked and he nodded with a smile. “Wanna see something?” He asked and I nodded. He turned the phone around and I saw a beautiful view of the ocean and what seemed to be a sun rise. “Oh my god.” I gasped out. “Bradley, it’s beautiful.” I said and he turned the phone back around, a giant grin on his face. “Isn’t it?” He asked and I nodded. 

“Hey, Bradley?” I asked and he hummed in acknowledgement. "Why did you use your call on me?" I asked and he just smiled. "Truth?" I nodded. "I've never had anyone to call on deployments." My heart broke for him. I could never imagine being so far away for so long and never having anyone to call and talk to. "I knew Hangman would use his calls to talk to Kelly, so I wanted to call you. Keep you updated, and just talk to you." He said with a grin. "With an answer like that, Jake may believe you really do have romantic feelings for me." I joked and he laughed. "If it gets him to admit his own feelings then good!" I gave him a small smile. "He doesn't have feelings for me, Rooster. Besides, if he did he wouldn’t have left without at least leaving a note.” I said. “You just don’t see it.” I scoffed. “See what? The way he looks at his girlfriend?” I asked, chuckling at the end. “I’m telling you, Katie. There’s something there.” I rolled my eyes at him and we continued our conversation, without the mention of Jake. Once we were done I went upstairs and got ready for bed. My nose still hurts from my fall and I’m sure I would have a nasty bruise just like Bradley said. But thankfully, I’m ninety-nine percent sure that it is not broken. As I laid in bed that night I couldn’t help but realize some of my anger had faded away. Jake telling me he was worried, made me a little pleased. It was so easy for me to give in to him and all because of my own stupid feelings. But I couldn’t just let this go so easily, couldn’t be weak. My thoughts cast me off into sleep, one that thankfully was nightmare free. 

I spent the next few days reading and trying to think of what else to do with my time. I had my next therapy session in two weeks and I quickly remembered I told Dr. Davis I would apply to some nursing programs. So I spent a few days applying to a few programs, ones that I would have a decent chance of getting in. The thought of going back to school scared me, but I knew that I would regret not even trying. I was cleaning a few days later, about a week after Bradley called me when the doorbell rang. I froze in the middle of my mopping and looked out of the kitchen and towards the front door. I slowly stalked forwards, standing on my toes and looking out the peephole. I was relieved to see Kelly’s face, looking straight at the door so I swung it open with a large smile. “Hi!” I greeted cheerfully. She gave me a small smile and stepped inside. She hung up her purse like usual and walked into the kitchen. “Oh! Be careful! I was in the middle of mopping!” I called, following after her. She didn’t seem to notice nor care as she traipsed across the clean floors and opened the fridge. “No beer?” She asked and I shook my head. “I don’t drink it.” I said. “Well Jake does.” I nodded, a little caught off guard by her stern tone. “Well he finished the last of them before he left and I plan to get some closer to the time of him coming home.” I responded as she pulled out a water bottle.

“Can I ask you something?” I asked and she hummed. “Is Jake mad at me?” I asked. She pursed her lips, sighing. “I wouldn’t say mad. More annoyed.” My face and hopes fell. “Oh…” I said. “It’s just… you’re always around.” She said. “We keep trying for alone time and you’re just there. Like the night before he shipped out. We had to change up everything so as not to disturb you and you still left.” I bit my lip, looking down at my bare feet. “I’m sorry. If you had asked me to leave I would’ve.” I replied. “But we shouldn’t have to.” She snapped and my head hung even more if possible. “You just follow Jake around like a lost puppy and it’s even getting on my nerves.” She said and I furrowed my brows. “Does it bother Jake?” I asked. “Of course it bothers him!” She said loudly. “It bothers the both of us.” I opened my mouth to reply but didn’t know what to say. “Maybe it’s time you find somewhere else to live.” She said and I could practically feel myself go pale. “I think I'd rather talk to Jake about this.” I said, standing tall. “It is his house and he did invite me to stay… So I’ll talk to him about it.” She scoffed. “He’s going to tell you the same thing I just did. Better to leave before he gets home and avoid the awkwardness.” She grinned at me and all the anger that I’ve had pent up came to the surface. My fists clenched at my sides, my nails making crescent shapes in my palms. 

“Is that all you have to say?” I asked, the anger evident in my voice. She just grinned at me. “Did I strike a nerve?” She asked mockingly. “Yeah. You fucking did.” She seemed surprised by my honesty. “I don’t know what kind of satisfaction you’re getting from coming here and telling me these things, but you're done.” I snapped. “It’s not your house.” She said, taking a step closer. “It’s not yours either.” Her face fell. She thought she was clever. “Now please leave.” Her eyes glanced at my fists and she noticed the shaking. “I will leave you with this reminder. Jake is my boyfriend and you will never take him from me.” I scoffed in her face. “And I’ll leave you with a reminder. The world does not revolve around you and I don’t want your fucking boyfriend. You can keep him and I hope that you have the life you deserve with him.” I sneered. “Now leave.” She stood before me, her face mere inches from my own. Her breath fanned against my face and I could smell alcohol. “And brush your fucking teeth when you get home. That’s disgusting.” Her hand immediately flew to her mouth before she stormed towards the door. She grabbed her purse from the hook but it got caught and instead of lifting it, she yanked it and the force pulled the board with the hooks off the wall. “Fuck you!” I yelled as she slammed the door behind her. “Now I have to clean this shit up.” 

A few hours later I had cleaned everything up and finished the rest of the house before pouring myself a glass of wine. Before I could even take my first sip my phone started ringing and as I lifted it, Jake’s name flashed across the screen. I slammed it down on the table and stared at it. I took a sip and was going to let it continue to ring, but decided to answer at the last second. “Hey, darlin’.” He said with a big smile and I propped my phone up. “We need to talk.” My voice was stern and it shocked him. “What happened to your nose? What’s going on?” He asked. “My nose doesn’t matter. If you wanted me gone Jake, you should’ve fucking told me. What did you just want a house sitter while you were gone? Just decided to wait till you came home to tell me to find somewhere else to live?” I snapped. “What are you talking about?” He asked, brows furrowing. “Don’t play dumb. Kelly told me how I was getting on your nerves and that I need to find somewhere else to live.” His eyebrows shot up and he leaned back slightly. “Woah! Hold on!” I shook my head. “No! You should’ve told me! If you want me gone, if you’re mad that I’m interrupting your alone time with your girlfriend, you should’ve told me!” I yelled out as I stood. “I can be reasonable if you’re honest with me! But dammit, Jake! I have spent so much of my life around lies, I can’t just let that go!” “Katie. Darlin’-” “Don’t fucking call me that.” I interrupted and he nodded. “Katie. I never lied to you and I never would. I don’t know what Kelly was saying, but I sent her over there to check on you.” 

“She sure checked in! Busted up in here and told me all about how I was wrecking your relationship and that I needed to find somewhere else to live, and how you’re her boyfriend and I will never steal you from her. Newsflash, I don’t fucking want you.” I snapped. Saying that to Kelly didn’t phase me, but saying it to Jake, that hurt. “Wait what?” He asked loudly. “Yeah. So you get your wish. I won’t be here when you get home.” I said. “No! Katie? Katie please!” He yelled as I stood up. “What?” If steam could be rolling out of my ears, I'm sure it would. I was shaking. I was so mad. But also upset. I should've known better than to hold out hope that this would work out. Nobody can handle you. You run every one off. “Darlin’, please. Don’t leave.” His eyes were misty as tears filled them and a part of me felt bad. “Please. Don’t leave.” Was he… begging? “Why shouldn’t I?” I asked. “Because whatever Kelly said, it’s a lie. I didn’t lie, she is.” I furrowed my brows. “You’re calling your own girlfriend a liar?” I asked, surprised. “Yes. Because she’s lying. I don’t want you to leave. Katie, if anything I never want you to leave. I’ve grown so used to having you in the house and I don’t want you to leave.” 

“Wh-why don’t you stay there and we’ll talk when I get home.” I sat back, huffing. “Jake-” “Katie. Please.” He said sternly. “Please, just stay.” My jaw tensed. “I will be here when you get home. But we are having a talk that day, no putting it off.” He nodded. “Good. Great!” He said. “But if I want to leave, you won’t stop me.” I said and his face fell. “If I stay we have to have a serious talk about what we’re gonna do moving forward because I am so fucking tired of assuming you’re angry with me everytime I turn around.” I said, tears of my own forming. “Katie, I’ve never been remotely angry with you.” He said and I sighed. “Let’s talk when you come home. I’m exhausted.” I said and he nodded. “Alright, darlin’. I’ll see you in four weeks.” He said. “Bye, Jake.” He barely said goodbye before I hung up and chugged the entire glass of wine. This was going to be a long four weeks. I thought before getting up and grabbing the bottle. “Might as well keep this nearby.” I muttered as I strolled over to the couch, flopping down on it. 

The following week was my therapy appointment and as soon as I sat down in Dr. Davis’ office, my leg was shaking. “I’m sorry I was late. I can’t seem to get myself together lately.” I said and she shook her head. “No! It’s okay, it was one minute!” She said but I couldn’t help but feel like she was actually upset with me. “Are you sure?” I asked. “I’m not upset or frustrated with you if that’s what you're asking.” She said. “Do you often feel like people are upset with you?” She asked and I nodded. “Let’s talk about that.” I explained everything, from my parents constantly being upset with me, to feeling like Jake is angry with me. We had started EMDR which was a little weird at first. My eyes were closed and I was tapping my knees in a steady rhythm, “I didn’t tell him why I thought he was mad.” She hummed and immediately I felt nauseous. “Are you okay?” She asked as I opened my eyes. “No, I feel nauseous.” She nodded, jotting some stuff down. “You seem to feel everything physically. The dizziness, the nausea.” She said and I took a few deep breaths, the nausea slowly subsiding.

“How do you feel about the situation with Jake now?” She asked. “It’s an eight.” She nodded. “Good! We started at a ten and we’ve already gotten it down to an eight! Just remember you may not feel like this is resolved until you talk to him.” I nodded. “Now, let’s talk about nursing school.” She said and I practically jumped in my seat. “Yes! I applied to three programs!” She smiled. “Good, which ones?” She asked and I told her. “Those aren’t very respected schools. Their graduation rates are low.” She said. “Yeah but… I struggle in school, a lot, and I think these are the only ones that will take me.” She shook her head and started writing. “I want you to apply to these two schools.” She said and handed me the paper. “San Diego State University, University of San Diego? These are the best schools in the city.” She nodded. “I don’t think I’ll get in.” She just smiled at me. “You’ll never know until you try.” She said and I stared at the paper. Once I apply to these two I will have applied to five. “What if I don’t get into any of them?” I asked. “Then we’ll figure out what to do in the meantime and if you want, you can apply again next year.” With that my session was over and I walked out to the truck, the paper clutched in my hand. Once I got in and got the air flowing I looked down at it. “She’s crazy to think I will get in.”

I set the paper down on the table when I got home. I couldn’t think about it right now, my mind was swirling between Jake, the Kelly issue and school. I decided to get lost in a book, I decided to open up Twisted Love. Maybe a little romance will make me feel better. I laid on the couch as I read and had wine and pizza for dinner. It took me a few days to work up the courage to apply and it was Bradley who convinced me too. “So why haven’t you applied?” He asked as I sat on the couch eating a sandwich. “What if I don’t get in?” I asked. “Sounds like a dumb reason to not apply.” He said, making me frown. “You think?” I asked and he nodded. “I know. You should apply! If they say no then you can always apply again next year.” He said and I sighed. “But what will I do if I don’t get in? I can’t just sit around and wait a whole year.” He chuckled. “We’ll figure something out. Why don’t you just do it?” He asked. “I guess I really don’t have a reason not to.” He nodded. “If anything, you have every reason to do it.” He was right. “Okay, I’ll do it once we get off the phone.” I said. “Just so you know, Jake has been pouting since your call.” He said and I giggled. “You haven’t told him?” I asked and he grinned at me. “Absolutely not. I’m enjoying this way too much.” He said. “Has he asked?” He nodded. “At least once a day, and when he realized I knew why you were mad he’s taken to practically begging me to tell him.” I giggled at his words. 

“Well I guess it’s almost time for you to go to bed.” He said as I yawned and then I nodded. “Yeah, but I’m gonna send in those two applications before I go to bed.” I said. “You sure you’re not too tired?” He asked and I nodded. “I’ll sleep better if I go ahead and send them in. They’ve been stressing me out every time I think about them.” I said. “Makes sense. Well I’ll let you send those in and I’ll call you next week.” He said. “Alright. Bye, Bradley.” I said and he waved before the call ended. I took a deep breath before going upstairs and going into Jake’s room. It smelled like him and always made me feel better. I snagged his laptop that he’s been allowing me to use and went downstairs. I sat on the couch for an hour sending these two in before I got ready for bed. I put Jake’s laptop back in his room and turned to leave but I stopped in the doorway. Smelling his cologne brought me comfort and I hadn’t been sleeping the best. Maybe I could just snag one of his shirts. I made my way to his dresser and opened the drawer, it was mostly boxers and socks so I closed it and opened the one below it. 

I found a burnt orange longhorn shirt and it smelled strongly of Jake. Is it weird for me to wear his shirt? “It’ll be washed and back in his drawer before he ever gets home.” I took the shirt into my room and slipped it on. I looked in my mirror and honestly, I looked good in his shirt and white thong. If Kelly ever found out she’d lose it, but who gives a fuck what she thinks anymore. I crawled into bed and grabbed my book again. I was about halfway through the book and was growing tired until I read the words, ‘On your knees.’ My face burned and I closed the book. “Did I just read that?” I had never read smut before and part of me felt embarrassed. The other part of me had to continue. So I opened the book back up and read on. My entire body was burning as I read and with the smell coming from the shirt I had on, I could only think of Jake and I. Specifically, Jake and I in this situation. An entire weekend hidden away to do nothing but explore each other’s bodies. “Oh my god.” I said, slamming the book shut. “I did not just think that.” I said before setting the book down and rolling over in bed. “I just have to put it out of my mind.” I muttered but it took forever to fall asleep, the ache between my legs was strong but finally I drifted off. But of course Jake was an ever present figure in my dream.

After that I couldn’t pick the book back up, so I started A Court of Thorns and Roses instead. But at this point I also couldn’t fall asleep without wearing Jake’s shirt, so all night his scent wafted around me and he was constantly in my dreams. It was about three days after I sent in the applications that I started receiving emails about the nursing programs. So far I was asked to come in and interview for two and as I prepared dinner, my phone dinged again with another email. I wiped my hands clean and picked up my phone. I opened the email and smiled, ‘Miss Blair, congratulations on moving on to the next stage of the application process. We would love to have you in for a panel interview next week to see if you would be a good candidate for our program.’ I squealed as I looked at the logo for San Diego State University. Between them, United States University and the University of San Diego, I had to get into one, right? I immediately sent an email to Bradley and Natasha in my excitement, but I asked them to keep it quiet. I wanted to email Jake so badly, but I was still so mad at him. I needed these few weeks to hurry by so I could get everything sorted out, but with all the dreams I’ve been having I don’t even know if I could look him in the eye anymore.

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

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[amethysts-tavern]

Forgive my typos or grammar. Writing this one on my phone rather than the laptop.

Gale x gender-neutral bard reader. Gale needs some reassurance.

———

I choose you.

Every night before bed, you make the circle around camp to check in with your companions - to see if they need additional healing or want to talk about anything, maybe tell them that they did well in the day’s adventure or recommend some battle tactics.

This night in particular, camp is pretty quiet. It was an extremely rough day. Half of the party went down entirely while you and Gale were the only two who remained standing by the end, likely from staying back from the melee where you could cast your spells without fear of being run through with a pike.

Karlach thanked you for finishing the fight and helping to revive her at the end. She had done the most damage to the enemy, but had also suffered the most.

“That fucker just would not die!” she exclaimed rehashing her last few swings to you. “I’m glad you were able to finish him off.”

“Lucky shot on a dissonant whisper,” you tell her. “Had he advanced on me and Gale, we would have been toast. Thank goodness Gale thought to cast sleet storm, essentially holding those cultists at bay.”

“Yeah, that was amazing! Well, I hope you get some good sleep tonight. We all deserve it,” Karlach says before turning in.

“G’night, Karlach. Good job today.”

You make your way over to where Astarion is standing outside of his tent, staring up at the clear sky. He takes in a big cleansing breath as you approach.

“Enjoying the evening, Astarion?”

“You know, the one thing about being a vampire that never gets old is seeing the stars every night. It’s like a big comforting blanket in the sky.”

“I won’t keep you then. Just wanted to say good job today.”

“I was great, wasn’t I? I spilled so much cultist blood on the ice. Let’s do it again tomorrow. Tell Gale to have that spell ready,” Astarion says with a twinkle in his eye.

You chuckle as you turn to move to Gale’s tent. You usually save his visit for last, sometimes staying the night with him in his tent. But he usually waits outside for you. Tonight, he’s not where you expect him.

You approach his tent slowly, listening hard to see if you can figure out why he didn’t wait for you, but the tent is quiet.

“Gale, are you there? Can I come in?” you ask in the voice reserved especially for him, softer and warmer than what you use with the others.

There’s no answer for a moment, but you do eventually hear a quiet, “you can come in.”

“Are you ok, love?” your concern apparent, as you enter Gale’s tent, only to see his back to you. “Are you hurt?”

“No, no. I’m… I’m fine,” he replies, leaving you convinced that he is entirely not fine. You step gently toward the wizard, trying to suss out what’s bothering him. You put a hand on his shoulder to comfort him. “What’s going on, hon? You know can tell me anything.”

There is silence for a moment and then he starts, “I’m not strong like Karlach. I’m not sneaky like Astarion. I couldn’t even help our friends when they fell,” he says just above a whisper. “I’m completely inadequate in battle. I don’t deserve to be in your party. I don’t deserve to be with you,” he hangs his head at the last part.

“What are you talking about? There’s a very good reason I choose to have you in my party every day. Your sleet storm was exactly what we needed in this battle! You slowed the enemies down so we didn’t have to deal with the entire mob at once! Without that quick thinking and spectacular ability, we would not have walked away with a victory.”

It was true. The giant mob of Absolutists would truly have done far more damage to your party if they advanced as a unit. But the moment they had to deal with a sheet of ice, they were sliding all over, not able to control their balance and landing on their backsides.

“And as for that last bit,” you say, wrapping your arms around the man that you love in a tight embrace, “I think I get to decide who is worthy of my affections. And I chose you. Brilliant, funny, loving you,” you punctuate the last sentence with kisses and nips at his neck. “And I will choose you every day for the rest of our lives.”

“But I could be so much more for you…” he starts.

You cross in front of him so that you can stare into his eyes. “Gale, I don’t want you to be anything else. I love you because of the man you are and how you make me feel. You are enough. In fact, you are everything I’ve ever wanted in a love. You are an honest and kind man. Your wit keeps me on my toes. You openly share your thoughts and feelings and listen to mine in return. I have never once doubted this relationship.”

You step in and give him another long, tender embrace. Your voice drops to a whisper, “And good gods! That thing you do with your tongue… it drives me wild!”

Finally, the corners of his mouth curl upward into a smile.