#he went from freaking out to reality hitting him that his crush has him pinned against the wall

[ohmnnnezz]

Bad Buddy Series EP1 [3/4]

[shotofire]

There’s Just Something About Him

•SHOTO TODOROKI x READER

•Overview: having feelings for the icy hot boy just seemed like a lost cause

•Warnings: just some cursing, meantions of anxiety.

•Season: 3

-

You’d always found the split haired boy attractive, but nothing ever went beyond that. It seems that even if you wanted it to nerves would just be in the way. Besides, everyone’s working to become pro-hero’s, who has time for a relationship? With all the shit going on you were almost positive that Todoroki didn’t have you in mind at all. The constant sneak attacks from villains, not knowing when the next person is going to get hurt, it was all too much.

Atleast that’s what you tried to convince yourself. The sweet, quiet boy who’d caught your eye since the first day of school just couldn’t possibly like you. He couldn’t possibly let a thought like that even make it halfway into his head. You’d lost hope a couple months into school, realizing fate definitely wasn’t on your side.

The two of you never got partnered up or even in the same group. It’s as if something is telling you it’s not meant to be. Sure you’d taken your own initiative and made conversation with the boy, but it’s always short lived. He wasn’t the best at talking unless he was on an adrenaline rush during a practice scenario. You had never gotten the luck of him wanting to use your quirks together either.

It truly felt hopeless.

You tried your best not to dwell on these things. If it was meant to be it just would’ve happened by now. Right?

The thoughts left your mind as you walked with your fellow classmates. Today is an exciting day, it was time to move into the new dorms. It took way too much convincing with your family, but eventually they caved in. You knew it’d be hard, they’re just worried about you. At this point the whole world was worried about all of the UA students safety. But everyone can agree that dorms are the safest it can get with all of the new high tech security.

You all stopped, admiring the new tall building in front of you. Knowing Todoroki was going to be in the same building as you every night had your anxiety on edge. But you were also... excited? For what, you had no idea. It was just a swirl of emotions.

Oh no, he’s gonna see my puffy morning eyes.

The happy chatter was cut short when Mr. Aizawa started talking about hero licenses, something that seemed to slip everyone’s minds. He was rather intimidating, eyes stern and serious. It sent a wave of uneasiness throughout the group. He knew the whole class was aware of the plan to save Bakugou, and he wasn’t happy. You stare at him with legs beginning to tremble.

His words cut deep as he threatened the possibility of expelling the entire class. You definitely wouldn’t put it past him, he seems like the type. But, as he said, due to All Might’s retirement the need for hero’s was strong. He couldn’t just get rid of such potential.

You looked at Todoroki’s face and it was frozen, he seemed more worried than anyone else. His heterochromia eyes stayed fixed on Mr. Aizawa, and you couldn’t help but let yourself take in his features. Sure you see the boy almost everyday but it’s hard to get good long looks when you’re sitting in class, he’d easily feel your gaze. There’s already been a couple times where he’s caught you and the embarrassment was too much to handle again.

His jaw was cleanched and sharp as ever. You just loved it. You wondered if it was weird to think about running your slim fingers along the bone of his jaw, it was just so beautiful.

“(y/n), are you even listening to me? Or are you just going to stare at Todoroki?”

In that moment it felt like you were going to throw up. All eyes shot to you, including Todoroki. Mr. Aizawa was a real ass sometimes but this definitely was the worst thing hes ever done to you, and he’d made you fall on your face after taking away your quirk infront of the whole class. That was absolutely nothing compared to this.

“I- uh, I-I wasn’t, I just-“ you were totally at loss for words. You’d never been more embarrassed in your life. The heat on your face was hotter than ever, and you knew it was visible as well.

Mr. Aizawa rolled his eyes, no longer caring about the predicament, “Anyways, that’s all. Look alive, enjoy your new home.”

That statement didn’t help anyone’s nerves after his little intimidation speech, but you had it the worst. Your face was still red and you could feel your heartbeat in your ears. Today was not going the way you hoped, and you didn’t dare even peak at Todoroki. You couldn’t help but think he thought you were weird. A girl he barely talks to constantly staring at him, there’s no way he didn’t think that.

The speech about where the boys and girls were was given, including where everything else was. But you could hardly pay attention focus on anything, and you didn’t dare look up.

It was time to decorate your rooms and make it your own, and you couldn’t be more relieved. Finally away from that embarrassment, even though it was waiting for you on the other side of your closed door.

“damnit,” you cursed. No one was going to forget that and you knew it. And the girls were beyond nosey when it came to crushes, especially Ashido.

After a couple hours of getting things together there was a knock on your door. You immediately froze. It’s like you had forgotten where you were and what had happened for a little bit, but of course you were quickly brought back to reality.

“Who is it?” You asked.

“Its Uraraka, can I come in?”

Shes always the sweetest and you knew she wouldn’t bug you about anything. Especially after seeing the way you reacted. Uraraka always had her suspicions that you found Todoroki cute, your eyes practically lit up everytime he did something.

You granted her permission and continued to put your pillows neatly on the bed. She was in her pj’s but definitely seemed wide awake.

“Oh wow, your room is so cute (y/n)! Nothing compared to mine,” her smile was huge. You just adored her, she always brightened up your mood.

“Thank you so much Uraraka, you’ll have to show me your room later before that is confirmed,” you smiled back.

“Oh course! Actually, speaking of rooms, that’s what I came here for. The girls and I convinced the guys to show us their rooms and we kinda turned it into a little contest. Wanna join?”

Her request was extremely appealing. You immediately wondered what Todoroki’s room looked like, and now was your opportunity to see it. But the nerves were still there, and the embarrassment was even stronger. You just couldn’t face everyone right not, especially Todoroki’s. He probably didn’t want your creep self in there anyways.

“Thanks for asking Uraraka, but i’m very tired. I was just planning on finishing my room and crashing. But I still would like to see your room sometime tomorrow,” you said while trying to hold your smile. But she could see the said frown behind it, but she didn’t want to bother you any further. She could only imagine how she’d react and feel if Mr. Aizawa did that to her. She’d be completely horrified.

“You got it, see you tomorrow (y/n). Sleep well!”

She leaves, shutting the door behind her. Your smile quickly fades and your shoulders fall limp.

I really wish I could see his room, I bet it’s awesome.

In all honestly you figured Todoroki would be relieved you didn’t show. God, class tomorrow was going to be hell. You just knew it, there’s no way you’d be able to focus knowing the whole class knows you’re a freak who can’t keep your eyes off the icy hot boy.

You pushed your thoughts aside, ignoring them to the best of your ability. You attempted to sleep, but the constant stamper of footsteps above you and outside your door was keeping you from the world of dreams. The world where assholes like Mr. Aizawa didn’t completely humiliate you.

Just as sleep started to creep up on you, there was another knock on your door. It was soft, and you immediately knew it wasn’t Uraraka. You sat up in the darkness, reaching for your bedside lamp. It faintly lit the room with a yellow glow, and made a light buzzing noise. You were too tired to speak up and ask who it was, so you forced yourself out of bed.

Maybe it was Momo, she did say she was looking forward to seeing your room. You pushed your wild hair out of your face before opening the door. And when you saw who was standing there a sharp breath immediately got caught in your throat. You let out a light cough.

“Todoroki?” you asked confused. He was all alone, no one with him. The lights in the hallway were out, one could only assume the competition was over and everyone else had gone to bed. Yet here he is, standing before you.

“I wanted to talk to you,” he says as if it’s the most normal thing ever. You didn’t know what to say, he’d never even approached you first. But he can knock on your door late at night to talk to you?

You looked at him in disbelief. In that moment you realized how little you knew about this boy, and how odd this situation was.

“What time is it?” You asked, completely ignoring what he said. He huffed, he knew you’d be difficult. You two may not talk much but he’s good at observing. He knew you more than you’d think.

“Almost 12, not too late. Can I talk to you?” This time he asked, therefore making it harder to avoid.

“Uh, I-In here?” You asked.

You couldn’t help but think he was here to tell you to stop being a creep. He wasn’t interested in you and would really appreciate it if you could stop with the creepy stares.

“Anywhere is fine,” he answers.

At those words, you move aside. Widening the door so that he can come in. The smell of vanilla hit you in the face as he walked past, and his eyes immediately began to observe your room.

Todoroki is in my room... what the actual fuck is going on!?

His hand comes up to point at your wall, “Did you draw those?”

Your eyes dart to the colorful art pinned to your wall.

“Y-Yes.”

The constant stuttering was making you loose your mind. But when your anxiety is this high you can’t manage to think straight. Not even one word can come out without a struggle.

“I like them.”

You swallow, hard. He probably heard it. The room was so quiet without one of you talking, unbearably quiet. Without words the only sound was the faint buzzing of your lamp you’d turned on only a few minutes ago.

“Oh, uh, Thanks,” a blush began to creep onto your face. Your hand came up to cover your face as you looked down. You knew you looked odd in the moment, but it was better than him seeing how much he can effect you so easily.

Todoroki looked at you with sweet eyes, although you couldn’t see them due to your current state. He thought you looked cute right now, all bashful. That’s something he has always liked about you. Your cheeks got red so easily when you were embarrassed, nervous, flustered, even when you were tired.

He noticed these things because you interested him, you always had. You were way too cute and sweet to not catch his attention. He just truly sucked when it came to talking to girls. Especially pretty girls like you.

“I, um,” this time it was Todoroki at a loss for words. He had a plan before he came in, but now as he stood in your room it was much harder to think clearly.

You looked up at him, his hand was raking through his hair. He seemed almost... nervous.

Why the hell would he be nervous?

“I was uh wondering if you, uh, would like to,” he took a deep breath to clear his mind. He was stuttering too much and overthinking, it was just a simple question he was trying to get out.

He locked eyes with you, “Would you like to go grab some food after school tomorrow?”

Your mouth fell open, but you quickly covered it with your hand. There was no way, no damn way.

“You mean, j-just me and you?” You asked, making sure you were  interpretating this correctly.

“Yeah, Yeah,” He nervously laughs, “Like a uh, date.”

Like a what now?

There was absolutely no way this was real, you had to be dreaming.

“is this a joke?” You ask, but you meant to only think it.

His eyes widen and he quickly began waving his hands, “W-What? No, of course not! I really want to go on a date with you, I think it’d be fun. Plus you’re super sweet and pre-“ he stops himself.

C’mon man, you’re gonna scare her off by being too forward.

“Yeah, i’d really like that Todoroki,” your smile was surpressed by your teeth sinking into your bottom lip. At this point you wanted to jump for joy, but you didn’t want to scare this chance away.

“Okay cool, so after school. Tomorrow, you and me,” his nervous laugh comes back, “on a date.”

You can’t help but giggle, you’d never seen Todoroki so nervous before. Not in this way at least. It was one of the cutest things you’d ever seen.

“You got me after school Todoroki,” you giggled again, “You and me on a date.”

And with that, the two of you said your goodbyes, which were a little awkward considering the two of you kept letting nervous laughter slip.

As soon at the door shut, you let out a happy squeal. It didn’t even bother you that he might of heard it, you really didn’t care. You were so overjoyed that nothing could kill your mood.

On the other side of the door Todoroki had the geekiest smile on his face. He walked to his room completely satisfied. He did it, he finally asked the girl he liked on a date.

“Hell yeah,” he whispered to himself.

This definitely was heading in the right direction.



[inmusicalseveryoneisscreaming]

Heart of the Theatre- Chapter 3

Chapter 3

TW for this chapter: Descriptions and mentions of self-harm, homophobia, Violence Relationships (Chapter Specific): Newsbians

@klaineharmony and @wingedprunepsychiclawyer for their support :)) I know how much you seem to love this story! 

Katherine walked into the theatre, squeezing at her arm quickly. She knew that she was showing up early, she thought if she did her nerves would go away quicker. Everything would be okay, everyone wouldn’t see the truth of sadness and hatred rotting underneath. Not a chance, never. The moment she even saw anyone it had to be the person in the whole cast she feared most. Oscar Delancey. Today sporting a coy grin on his face and a dark small box in his hand. Kath took a deep breath. You can do this; he’s not going to come to you. He probably forgot you existed, Plumber. Just keep your breathing under control. Her worst thoughts were soon confirmed though, as Oscar took his place in front of her. He towered above her, making sure to give just that right look that made Katherine crumble beneath him.

“Well, well, wellllllll! Who’ve we got here. If I recall correctly… It’s you Miss Plumber!” He grinned wider, having a fake compassionate look in his gaze. Katherine averted her eyes from looking directly at him, already she was getting really uneasy around him. Oscar scared her, always has, and never will fail to.

“I, uhm, yes, it is Katherine Plumber. Uhm, if you’d excuse me, I have to get past you-.” Katherine tried to swerve around him. He tsked at her, grabbing her wrist and twisting her so she faced him. She gulped, feeling suddenly shorter than ever. She felt as if she was the size of an ant, and as if Oscar were an elephant. The moment Oscar’s hand wrapped around her wrist, she felt as if she were crushed and dead.

“Nah, hon,” she shivered at the pet name, “I have something for you.” He smirked, opening the box that was in his other hand quickly. In the box was a ring, a shining diamond ring that made her feel ever so worse about herself. She felt as if Oscar was trying to force her into something she didn’t want. Don’t get her wrong, the ring was beautiful. It looked as if it would cost a fortune, but Katherine couldn’t even find herself to care. Everything else took over, hyperventilating, sweating, slight blushing in the tips of her ears. Oscar snickered, spinning her so that he can steal his arm around her waist. Her breath only got heavier and heavier as she started trembling. Oscar grinned as he pulled her up towards him sharply.

“I… I… I… I, um, Oscar, uh-.” Katherine brushed her one free hand over her skirt quickly, hoping the sweat on her palm would evaporate somehow. “I’m busy-.” Actually, all she had to do was disappear. She wanted to disappear and be gone and forget that society existed. She didn’t want this to happen at all, she didn’t want Oscar in her life. She wished she still had her past life. She hoped her mother would one day be alive again, and she would hug Katherine, and be able to promise it was all okay. She’d hoped her father, in some alternate reality, was actually present in her life and would actually love her. She’d hoped she actually had people who cared. She longed for some girl to hold and protect her and kiss her and love her. For a moment, a flash, Katherine thought that the Sarah girl might’ve been that person. But, of course not, she’d never like Katherine.

“What do you want to say to me, huh?” Oscar asked, making sure she was on level eye contact with him. He leaned to her ear. “What do you want to say to me, you little lesbo?” Katherine shivered, feeling tears alright prick in her eyes. She could deal with most of this before. She had hyperventilating issues, sure, but Katherine hadn’t prepared on anyway to deal with this. Kath just stumbled over her words, Oscar slapped her quickly. “Answer me, homo.”

“I’m not interested, Oscar, could you-.” She takes a sharp breath as Oscar starts to dig his fingernails into Kath’s sweater sleeve. “-let go?”

“Nah,” he shakes his head, “I think I’d rather expose your secrets, hon.” He reached out for Katherine’s sweater sleeve with a wide grin. “Want to tell them how much you hate yourself, Katherine? Or do I have to show them?” Katherine shook, trying to reach up and clench the sweater sleeve draping over the wrist he was holding. The moment her fingers so much as brushed the fabric, he tore the sleeve downwards. Katherine felt tears escape at that. There was a reason she wore sweaters all the time, there was a reason she kept her arms hidden. Adorning her wrist and arms were several cuts.

Katherine never meant to get into the habit of harming herself, she never even thought of it until junior year of high school. Everything in her life had plummeted so low, her aunt was the only one in her family left. Everyone was gone. She had completely surrendered herself to be used by others, she had nothing else left to give. People like Oscar were trying to grab and torture her each day for being her, making her life a living nightmare. She started senior year, just a year prior, and she hadn’t stopped. She couldn’t just stop. It brought an odd sense of relief.

“Oscar, I-.” In her voice lingered a sob, this was not what she wanted, that goes without saying. But that, mixed with the fact it was Oscar Delancey forcing her in place, arm on display, was what really hit her hard. All she wanted to do was evaporate and never be seen, forget the fact she even existed, melt into the background. She doesn’t even want to be noticed anymore, all she wanted was to be free and be her and be able to roam this earth without judgement and harassment.

It was only then Katherine noticed a savior appearing behind Oscar. Only when Katherine could see past the blur of tears is when she realized who the mysterious figure was.

The one and only Sarah Jacobs.

“Hey, jerkwad!” Oscar turned, Katherine still in his grasp. Kath blushed brightly, looking down. Sarah takes a step forward, narrowing her eyes at Oscar. “Let the girl go! You have zero right to be holding any girl like that! You have zero right to be holding anyone like that! And to reveal something very private?” She gestured to Katherine’s arm. “Let her go!”

“Aw, or what, trans?” Oscar spat, poking her at the trans pride flag pin on her jacket. Sarah’s eyes darkened, eyebrows furrowing and face becoming as dark as smoke. Sarah quickly lunged to Katherine, tearing her from Oscar’s grip. Katherine felt her face go hot. Sarah smiled softly to her, before tackling Oscar to the ground.

“YOU BETTER FREAKING APOLOGIZE TO HER OR ELSE!” Sarah yelled, punching Oscar in the face.

“Yeah, like I’m gonna do that, little boy.” Sarah darkened at that comment, taking more hits.

“APOLOGIZE TO HER! APOLOGIZE FOR BEING A JERK WHO REVEALED PERSONAL CRAP RIGHT NOW!” She continued punching him until you couldn’t differentiate the colors in his face. It had become a full blown fight. Punches being put to each other, Oscar still throwing slurs, Oscar reaching to choke Sarah. Sarah reached right back, grabbing Oscar’s neck and pulling him up before throwing him up against a wall.

“Now, leave her alone, got it?” Oscar nodded hurriedly, running away. With a sigh, Sarah turned to face Kath. “Hey… Are you okay?” Katherine’s mouth was open in shock, surprisingly she wasn’t hyperventilating or remembering her father. All she could do was stand and look up in shock at this girl, this girl who barely knew her, who had just fought for her.

“I’m not… I’m just… wow.” She mumbled. “Why’d you do that? You barely even know me…” Katherine asked, mouth still hanging ajar. Sarah smiled, placing a hand softly on her shoulder.

“When I see a girl hanging in distress by her sleeve, having cuts on her arms exposed, I feel it’s the least I could do. Plus, Katherine, I may barely know you, but I’ve gathered you’re a sweet enough girl.” Katherine went pink again. “And... I understand that. I used to harm, too. And if you ever need to talk to anyone, know I’m here.”

And as Sarah walked away, Katherine felt a smile form on her face. A real, full smile that Katherine felt like she’d never tire of.

Just like she’s sure she’ll never tire of seeing the face of Sarah anytime soon.

[why-this-kolaveri-machi]

Fic: everywhere but here (1/?)

first MCU fic! i’ve been wrestling with this over a month so that i can post the whole thing in one go, but honestly the story’s getting too long, i’m really unsure if i’ve nailed the character voices, and my life is so full right now. so i’ve split this into parts.

this is dedicated to the wonderful @franklyineedcoffee with whom i’ve done much nerding out over the last couple of months; and also to fellow spiderman enthusiasts, @queen-of-carven-stone, @hacash and @sunflowerchester <3

Summary: SPOILERS for Avengers: Infinity War. After the final battle on Titan, a combination of Soul Stone shenanigans and his own spider powers means that Peter is pinballing between realities, forming and reforming until he’s sure it’s going to drive him nuts. He’s desperate to get back home, but he needs to figure out what ‘home’ is first.

One

"Hey, Mr. Stark."

"Yeah."

"Remember when, um, when you and the other A-Avengers faced down the first Chitauri invasion? Like, way back when? In New York?"

"Kid, you're talking about it like you read it in a history textbook."

"It is in my history textbook, actually. Except I was also kind of there to see it all happen--well, a bit of it, anyway--and that's never stopped being awesome, but, okay. That's not my point. Do you remember what happened after?"

"Shawarma. Parties. Lots and lots of governmental red tape. Parties. The worst year of my life. Did I mention parties?"

"I--uh, we always figured that you guys, you know, lived in the Tower together for a while. I mean, you know. Training together, eating together, just--being a team."

"Like a regular domestic, you mean? Rogers manning the grill, Bruce landscaping the garden, Nat telling us we're all idiots while doing backflips?"

"Um... maybe?"

"Nah, kid. We went our separate ways until the next big world-threatening thing came around. Adult friendships, see, don't quite work the way you think they do--"

"Adult frien--Mr. Stark, I'm sixteen, not five."

"Could've fooled me."

"I guess I'd kinda hoped--anyway. Never mind, Mr. Stark. It's stupid."

"At any rate, I screwed the pooch on the whole Sokovia Accords thing, so don't hold out too much hope for a big Avengers family reunion any time soon. Or for whatever else you were fantasising. Or reading from the tabloids--"

"Yeah, okay, Mr. Stark."

"--all of which, by the way, think Rogers and I have some sort of secret super-powered lovechild, and that's how the whole issue blew up--"

"We can stop talking about it."

"--which is absolutely ridiculous; Rogers is kind of my godfather which would make the whole thing vaguely incestuous, which, hey, I'm all for whatever floats your boat usually, but that's taking things just a smidge too far--"

"FRIDAY, stop!"

"... apologies, Mr. Parker. Shall I cease the Tony Stark simulacrum altogether?"

"N--yeah, FRIDAY. Yeah, thanks. I guess I thought if I heard a familiar voice I could--um. Yeah. You can shut it down."

"May I help you in any other way, Mr. Parker?"

"No. I was just leaving."

"Catastrophic damage has rendered much of the roadways outside of this building unusable. May I suggest seeking an alternative mode of transport?"

"I'll figure something out."

-

It starts off as a weird thrumming sensation at the back of his neck which blows up abruptly into the worst anxiety that Peter's ever felt--his hands shaking, gut cramping, sweating almost right through his suit. His first instinct is to run--usually when he feels like this, there's something to run away from. Now, though, the shrieking sense of wrongwrongWRONG is coming from everywhere; he's being crushed by it, buried under a mountain of sensation that drowns out thought.

Peter takes a deep breath of Titan's hyper-oxygenated air. He sways, tries to catch Mr. Stark's attention, but he can barely get the words out. Besides: Mr. Stark's a bit pre-occupied at the moment, arguing with Doctor Strange--their words weave in and out of Peter's hearing, stones and destruction and this is the end of us all, over and over again--and every now and then he stops to catch his breath, hand pinned over that horrific wound in his stomach, knuckles whitening, and Peter--

and Peter--

wrongwrongWRONGWRONG

He can't breathe, he can't, he can't. Everything around him is an orange haze when he says Mr Stark? I don't feel so good and stumbles forward; the weak sun filtering through the dust is now blinding and he can barely make out Tony turning to him. I don't know what's happening, he says, and it's starting to hurt, a bone-deep ache like that time he got really bad food poisoning from spoiled shrimp when he was ten or, or, the time of the spider-bite--

Numbness is starting to chase the pain, spreading up from his feet and fingertips. He begins to fall, and Mr. Stark catches him--but not before he sees the tips of his fingers just... flaking away, floating  into the haze. Realisation hits him then: they’ve lost. He’s disappearing, and Mr. Stark isn’t, and Peter’s used to losing, but never quite like this, not this much. Absurdly, all he can think of right now is his promise to Aunt May that he’d help her with her new brownie recipe later that evening, finish making the last of the flash cards for decathlon practice for MJ, drop by Ned’s--ostensibly to study but really to start hammering out ideas for cosplay in time for the premiere of Solo--then maybe sneak in a neighbourhood patrol before bed, cutting through the chill air and feeling on top of the world because this is something, finally he’s doing something--

I don’t want to go, please, sir, I don’t want to go, he says, and he can’t feel his hands anymore but he tries to hold on anyway, scrabbling at Mr. Stark’s back even as he’s terrified that it’s going to fall apart in his arms too. He can’t hear what Mr. Stark’s saying over the roaring in his ears; he hopes it’s ssh, kid, I’m about to fix this like he’s heard a million times before but the words that rumble in his chest instead are if you die--

if you die, i feel like that’s on me.

The numbness is in his chest now, swamping his lungs with cold (like lake water, except Iron Man’s not here to save him this time--) Peter’s utterly out of breath (out of life) and falls, and Mr. Stark falls with him--through the haze Peter catches tears in Mr. Stark’s eyes and it is such a bizarre sight that he almost laughs. He wonders fleetingly about Uncle Ben, lying on the pavement gurgling blood and the weeks and weeks of black devastation that followed, and a part of him still untouched by the cold and fear and panic aches for the people who will live in the wreckage of… all of this (of his death).

I’m sorry, he tells Mr. Stark.

And then there’s nothing.

-

So. This is embarrassing.

Don’t get Peter wrong: waking up in his own bed, whole and well and alive, right after fading away into nothingness in Mr. Stark’s arms? Is not the worst thing. He’s even willing to go along with the it-was-all-a-dream cliche if it means that Mr. Stark didn’t get stabbed on a dead planet in outer space and some big purple alien didn’t kill half the universe. He seems… fairly intact (Peter checked) and his bedsheets smell pleasantly of the cheap fabric conditioner that May is attached to and Peter is so so relieved that he feels like his heart is going to burst with the force of it.

Then--

“Kiddo, I hope you’re awake, because I don’t think they’re going to excuse you showing up half an hour late anymore.”

Peter freezes. Now wait a damn second--

Uncle Ben peeks into his room. “Oh, good! Spider-Man’s still alive and kicking! Breakfast’s on the counter when you’re ready.” He winks and leaves.

“Um,” Peter says intelligently, his heart pounding wildly in his chest.

He should be freaking out. He should be--is this a dream? Is Uncle Ben an alien? A shapeshifter? Was Mr. Thor suddenly going to walk in to see Peter gaping at the door like a landed fish? Why was he even using that expression when he’s never gone fishing in his life?

“UM,” Peter says again, louder.

Like Peter said: So. Frickin’. Embarrassing.

[gunpowderfics]

Caught In The Way You Got Me - Chapter 2

Warnings: None Rating: T+ Pairing: Momota Kaito/Ouma Kokichi Other: Fake Dating AU Note: Chapter 2 aka In Which Ouma Keeps Running From People. This took longer than I expected. Depression punched me in the face and I started an internship at a 3D printing business where I'm currently redesigning the website. So I've been left pretty exhausted. But! Here we be.

Also if you're looking for some sweet oumota jams my partner Vince made an A+ playlist

Constructive criticism and feedback are always appreciated!

Kokichi blinks slowly, lazily, letting the morning light spilling in through the kitchen window blind him in an attempt to feel more awake. He inhales, and the rich scent of coffee reaches him, enveloping him in a familiar comfort. Utensils click against each other as his roommate prepares them breakfast.

“I thought we talked about the whole no pants thing,” Shuuichi says, finishing up the omurice, being a little too careful about how he swirls the ketchup on, Kokichi notes.

“Ugh but it’s so hooot, ” he whines, pressing his face against the blissfully cool countertop. “Besides what does it matter. Not like you got the hots for me or anything.”

He can hear how the plate thuds against the counter, can almost picture Shuuichi just barely miss putting it down properly, and is sure that if he lifted his head he’d see the faintest pink on his roommate’s face.

“Nyeheheh. With reactions like that, Shuuichi, you really make a guy think otherwise.” Kokichi looks up at him, a big old grin on his face, but he was right. There’s a faint blush. “But I know, I know. You’ve got your heart set on that pianist from your English class and you still haven't thanked me for that elaborate plan so you two’d bump into each other at that party.”

“I, ah, yeah. Thank you, Kokichi.”

He sticks his tongue out at him before snatching the plate out of his hands and pulling it towards himself. “So, anyway , guess who I met at that shindig I went to last night.”

“Someone interesting?” Shuuichi offers, smiling awkwardly.

Kokichi pokes at his food. “Well duh why else would I tell you? Since when do I talk about boring people?”

“I guess you have a point.”

“It’s actually another person you’re kinda obsessed with.”

Shuuichi chokes on his food. “I-I don't obsess over people. You.. don't think I’m obsessing over Kaede do you?”

Kokichi rolls his eyes. “Of course you’re obsessed with her, you’re totally in love with her to the point it’s disgusting. But, nooo I’m referring to your little YouTube celebrity crush.”

He starts to shove the food in his mouth as he watches Shuuichi really think about who on Earth he can possibly mean. It’s always fun watching him think, the way his brows knit in concentration, his eyes intensely focused on one spot, his mouth slightly open. Kokichi sometimes wonders if, maybe in a different life, in a different universe, the feelings he used to hold for his old friend had actually resulted in a relationship.

But that's boring to think about.

“I’m.. at a loss, I’m afraid,” Shuuichi finally responds, bringing Kokichi’s attention back to this reality.

“Pfft, how poorly do you know yourself?”

“Cut me some slack, ok? I’ve been focused on school and--”

“Kaede”

Shuuichi frowns but keeps talking. “And I haven't really had time to keep up with my interests, so I guess I’ve.. kinda forgotten?”

Kokichi rolls his eyes and sighs. “You are so impossible sometimes, Shuuichi. You’ve even got some dumb motivational poster of his.”

The realization slowly hitting his roommate is almost as good as the desperation he was able to witness last night with “Kaito Momota.”

“Ding ding ding!” Kokichi dramatically throws his arm up with fork in hand, and does an over the top motion before pointing the utensil at Shuuichi. “We have a winner!”

Shuuichi is staring down at his breakfast in disbelief. “I knew he lived close to the area but I never thought…” He looks up at Kokichi and his hyena grin, and frowns. “No. You’re just trying to pull my leg.”

Kokichi’s face falls flat. “Boo you’re no fun.” He pokes at his rice omelet before pushing the plate aside. “But whatever! I’m gonna go out to eat. I’m like so bored of this food.”

“Kokichi wait--”

But he’s already dashing off to his room in search of pants.

In truth, he didn't mean to be rude to Shuuichi like that, he reflects as he takes the long way to his favorite café. It had just been so disheartening that his very first assumption was that he was lying to him. Sure, he has a habit of embellishing about his adventures, but when it came to things and people he cared about, Kokichi did his best to be genuine. They’re childhood friends after all. What does he gain from lying to him? He’s not even sure why he didn't just push through and go on with recounting last night. It wasn't the first time Shuuichi didn't instantly believe him.

“Stupid Shuuichi,” he mumbles to himself, kicking at some gravel that’d spilled onto the sidewalk. “Stupid Kaito.”

He spends the rest of the walk not really thinking, numbing any connection he feels to himself and the outside world, hardly registering the sun on his skin, or who he’s walking by as he makes his way to his favorite café. The only thing that breaks him out of this spell is the loud greeting he receives upon entering the café.”

“There ya are you tiny freak,” Miu calls out, leaning across the counter, pulling in the attention from the few customers there not only from the volume of her voice, but the volume of her chest threatening to spill from her top’s low cut. Kokichi’s sure if her manager was here she’d be fired, but the manager never seemed to come in. “Gawd what took you so long? Were you and your roommate jackin it together huh?”

“Only in your dreams, Miu~” He replies, forcing a smile. “Should you even be talking like that? You can't afford to get fired with a face like that.”

“Ah, cut the crap. No one here cares, right?”

None of the customers respond.

“Hey! You dumbshits! I’m talking to ya!”

Kokichi snorts, and before he can ask his usual question of how on earth she got this job, someone is tapping his shoulder. “Ugh what is it, don't you know it’s rude to--”

Kaito is standing behind him. Never before has he understood the phrase “knees weak, arms spaghetti” until this very moment.  The innocent, clueless look on his face makes him burn with something that he can't quite pin down as anger or attraction.

“Is she bothering you?” Kaito asks.

Miu responds. “Pft as if! He’s my best fucking friend. Who the fuck are you?”

“Seriously? Have none of you heard of me? Kaito Momota, Legendary of the Stars, Astronaut in Training, Youtuber?”

“Oh! You’re that ugly bastard Kokichi’s roommate is obsessed with.”

If the floor could open and swallow him whole that’d be great right now. But instead he gives both of them a nice, big, fake smile. “Ahaha, well, I guess I should get going~! Got a biiiig day planned and I’ve already wasted too much time talking to you losers.”

He tries to make an exit for the door, but Kaito grabs onto his wrist. The contact sends a jolt through his body and every fiber of his being is screaming at him to run.

But he doesn't.

“You haven't ordered anything yet,” Kaito points out. “And I still owe you for yesterday. I don't break promises you know. So I’ll buy your drink and then I’ll pay you.”

Kokichi sighs, and pulls free from the other’s grip. “Ugh fine.”

Every second drags on. The sound of their order falling from Kaito’s lips thuds heavily against his eardrums. Miu’s insults and weird innuendos drip like molasses over the situation. The exchange of wadded up cash and movements of hands is like watching paint dry. Jitteriness and the need to escape drench Kokichi’s senses.

When Kaito hands him his drink, he let’s go of the breath he didn't realize he was holding.

“Everything ok?”

“Yup!” He gives Kaito yet another big old smile. “Thanks for paying for my drink but I really gotta get going. Big day, like I said.”

“What about paying you for last night?”

Kokicihi thanks his lucky stars Miu is busy with another customer. He’s sure that she’d make a comment about him having a new side hustle as a whore. As if he’d sleep with someone as idiotic as Kaito Momota.

“Kokichi? Did you hear me?”

“Huh? What? Oh the payment.” He grins slyly at him. “That was a lie! Just like how I lied about not knowing who you are. That's what I do, you see. I’m a liar.”

Kaito’s stupid dumb purple eyes feel like they’re boring into him as the big stupid idiot stands there, staring at him, as if that's the hardest information he’s ever had to process. Kokichi loudly sips on his coffee, burning his mouth but ignoring the pain, but keeps himself rooted firmly in front of Kaito. Why aren't you running! Now’s your chance. You got a free drink now fucking leave before he starts--

Kaito opens his mouth. “So, why then? Why help me?”

Kokichi rolls his eyes. “Ugh I told you at the party, numbnuts, I was just bored ok?”

“You.. weren't using me were you?”

He snorts. “Oh that’s rich, coming from you. You’re the one who used me if we’re gonna go that route. Pretending to be gay cus you can't properly turn a girl down or tell her how you really feel. I bet you lied to me about how demanding she was because you didn't have the heart to be directly mean to an adoring fan, even though deceiving her like that is like waaay worse.”

“Why the fuck would I lie about that? The fuck is your problem?!”

Kokichi shrugs, and he’s not sure if it’s the coffee or the rush he’s getting from lashing out at Kaito, but he feels great . “Why wouldn't you lie about that? I don't know you, Kaito. Your own persona could be fake for all I know, though that honestly wouldn't surprise me. I mean, what internet celebrity isn't fake as fuck nowadays.”

Kaito’s snarling at him now, his drink dangerously close to being crushed. “Who the fuck do you think you are to be flinging this verbal shit at me, you fucking pipsqueak.”

“Why, I’m Kokichi Ouma, Legendary of Lies, and I’ll be leaving now. Don't bother me anymore. Enjoy your little fake celebrity life. I hope you get swallowed up by a black hole in space.”

With that, he turns on his heel and walks through the door, curious if Kaito is going to follow him. He’s on edge in anticipation, waiting to hear a shout, to feel a fist colliding with his back or his face, because Kaito Momota looks like a puncher, but nothing happens. The excitement, the adrenaline, all boils down to nothingness with each step toward home he takes, with each step that doesn't have Kaito hot on his heels.

There’s nothing but an empty feeling and a cold coffee.