#helena x mc

[demisexual-deesaster]

Oh my gosh I love you so much, I've been starving for Lovestruck content. This comic is like an oasis, please continue 😭😭😭

Another Altea/MC/Helena comic I started... to be continued??

[helena-thompson]

I headcanon that the Slytherin seventh years only have one roommate instead of three, and Sebastian and Ominis are obviously paired up together.

And somehow, despite having a somewhat private bedroom in the Room of Requirement, a couch in the Undercroft, plus a myriad of other secret little hidey-holes around the castle and grounds to be alone in, Helena and Seb still end up getting frisky in Seb and Ominis' room... so Sebastian starts charming the door handle to give Ominis a little "shock" anytime they're in there messing around, so he doesn't accidentally walk in on them—like the wizard's version of a "sock on the door," if you will.

I just think it will be hilarious when Seb and Helena attempt to go in there one day and the doorknob shocks them, and they're like "Finally, Ominis is getting some action!" and meanwhile, Ominis is inside just chilling, reading a book or something, and charmed the handle so he could get some damn peace and quiet and not deal with their shenanigans. 🤣

[girl-named-matty]

----------------- ✩.･*:｡≻─────୨୧ ─────.•*: ✩ -----------------

.｡.:*✧ ○ 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘺 ○ 𝟣𝟨 ○ 𝘴𝘩𝘦 / 𝘩𝘦𝘳 ○ 𝘩𝘰𝘨𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘤𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘢𝘴𝘵 ○ ✧*:.｡.

○ 𝘔𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘬𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘦 (𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘵, 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘱𝘢𝘥, 𝘢𝘰𝟥, 𝘦𝘵𝘤…) ○ 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘯𝘴 & 𝘍𝘪𝘤𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 ○ 𝘚𝘔𝘈𝘜 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵 - ○ #𝘩𝘢𝘺𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦, #𝘩𝘤𝘶, #𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘩𝘤𝘶, #𝘩𝘢𝘺𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦

𝘔𝘦𝘦𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘔𝘊'𝘴! ˏˋ°•*⁀➷

○ 𝘔𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘈𝘮𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘴𝘦 ○ 𝘏𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘢 𝘌𝘭𝘸𝘺𝘯 ○ 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘢𝘯 𝘎𝘢𝘶𝘯𝘵 (𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘰𝘯…) ○ 𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘰𝘥𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘓𝘶𝘱𝘪𝘯 (𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘰𝘰𝘯…)

○ 𝘵𝘢𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳: ☽｡⋆ #𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘺𝘳𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘭𝘦𝘴, #𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘺𝘸𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘴 #𝘢𝘮𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 - ○ 𝘙𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘯𝘴 (𝘤𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘦𝘥) ○ 𝘙𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘚𝘔𝘈𝘜'𝘴 (𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯) ○ 𝘐 𝘥𝘰𝘯'𝘵 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘕𝘚𝘍𝘞 𝘳𝘦𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴 ○ 𝘈𝘴𝘬𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯 💌

𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘺 🤍

[helenadurazzo]

A Wonderful World of Color

Ended up being able to throw together a new story just in time for the HPHM Ship Weekend. For this, I took the prompt of the Soulmate AU. In this universe, before a person makes eye contact with their soulmate, the world is coated in shades of grey. Normally, people know who their soulmate is right away, yet not for Helena.

Helena often wondered what the world would look like if it was in color. Oftentimes the world seemed rather drab with it being drowned in shades of grey. The world was how it was though and as many people said, fate would be the determining factor in if the world would erupt in color for you or not. And sometimes Helena figured that her time would never come.

Mum never really talked about soulmates, saying that she had never met hers like father. Yet while Dad certainly never met the person he was meant for, she knew his words were genuine even though he did find happiness in what he was able to get. Yet Mum was a whole other story, sometimes Helena would hear her stumble her words and wondered if she could indeed see the world in color like those who had met their soulmate. She supposed it would be proper for a person with a passion for herbology and nature would be able to see in color, yet Helena never pushed to uncover her Mum’s past. Perhaps that day when she met Dad in that coffee shop she figured a life with someone was better if she could not be with her own soulmate. Yet in such situations, it was wise to not tread on such sensitive subjects. Helena wished she could ask Jacob for advice yet he was still missing, and Helena thought lingered on him endlessly. At least she had her peers and the joys that being a student at Hogwarts had to offer, it was the only way to keep her mind off of the cursed vaults after all.

She supposed Hogwarts was a common place for soulmates to meet, possibly one of the most common places to do so in the country. Yet between herself, Rowan, Tulip, and Badeea, only Badeea was the one who was able to see in color, when she and Talbott discovering they were soulmates not too long into the school year yet while they both did spend a lot of time together both decided to revisit that topic later. She would describe in great detail the colors of her paintings that it almost felt like Helena could indeed see their vibrancy. And Tulip had started making bets of which out of the three of them would meet their soulmate next.

But for now a quidditch game between Slytherin and Ravenclaw would do plenty to keep her and her roommates occupied without focusing on something that perhaps they could never find. Helena watched the match intently, after all, it was hard to tell the differences of who was who on the team as without seeing colors, it was a challenge, yet Badeea always provides more personal commentary and answers to questions that Murphy simply couldn’t provide from his seat in the highest place as the commentator.

“The Slytherins are on their game this year.” Tulip remarked as the players flew around on their brooms at top speeds.

“Certainly.” Rowan nodded, cheering as Skye Parkin, a Ravenclaw the year above them who hailed from the famous Parkin Family who founded the Wigtown Wanderers, successfully threw a quaffle that evaded Slytherin’s keeper. “Perhaps this will be the year for Ravenclaw.”

“I hope no one gets hurt in this match, Slytherin players can be quite aggressive, especially that Erika Rath.” Helena noted, knowing if one of the chasers was injured, she would be brought onto the pitch. Normally it would be a chance to gain great honor, yet Helena pondered how she would react when she was on the pitch playing for a crowd with people in the supposedly the colors of each house judging by the shades of grey and matching facepaint.

When she turned her head away from her friends and back to pitch her eyes widened at the sight ahead of her with surprise as a bludger rushed straight towards her face. She instinctively ducked and was lucky the bludger did not hit her in the head, since she would have likely been knocked out and would have woken up in the hospital wing. Yet when she got the courage to look back at the pitch, her eyes met one of the other players. The sudden burst of unexpected color in the world made her feel so entranced by those blue eyes, similar to her own yet with a slight more hint of green perhaps? Maybe it was teal? Before she could once more gain her senses whichever quidditch player that was had flown off to another area of the pitch and was gone. However, there was one thing Helena was sure of, that mystery quidditch player was her soulmate, they had to be.

“Helena are you ok?” Rowan panicked, adjusting her glasses as they went down her nose due to the sudden turn of her head. “That bludger nearly knocked you into next week!”

“I… I can see…” Helena stammered as she looked out to the pitch. Observing the quidditch players in dark blue and emerald green flying back and forth depending on where the quidditch balls were and carefully evading bludgers with swift movements. On the other side of the stands, everyone was dressed in similar shades of the two colors, it was bright and radiant, “Colors, its… it’s really something…”

“Congratulations!” Badeea cheered before noticing what was like an uncertain look on Helena’s own face, “Sorry, I guess it’s not the best time…”

“No you’re fine.” Helena softly smiled at her friend.

“So who’s the lucky quidditch player who you are destined to be with?” Tulip smirked, “It’s got to be a quidditch player who is your soulmate right?”

“I… I don’t know.” Helena confessed, still catching her breath. “I only saw their eyes due to that bludger. They were a bluish green.”

“I know I don’t know any of the quidditch players, much less their eye colors.” Tulip noted, “but that isn’t a lot to go off of. Yet I suppose we can take off Orion and Skye off of the possibilities, not only have you talked with both of them but the eye colors don’t match.”

“Now that you mention that.” Helena realized, “Unless they put in a rookie or a substitute I have met all of the people on the Ravenclaw team. If my soulmate was one of them I should have known that by now.”

“So your soulmate must be a Slytherin.” Badeea concluded, “Perhaps they’ll come to you, surely they are also wondering the same things you are.”

“They would probably have more trouble figuring that out than Helena does.” Rowan pointed out. “Where Helena has seven Slytherin Quidditch players it could be, this quidditch player has anyone in the general vicinity of us.”

“Let’s just enjoy the rest of the match.” Helena insisted to her friends, “It’s fine, don’t worry about me, if we are soulmates surely our paths will cross again, or the universe will give me a sign to who it is.”

•••••••••••••••••

Even being at home for the weekend could not quell Helena’s perplexing feelings. She supposed it was nice to see her mother again, she just thought she would have more than a week before she would have to deal with the possibility of telling her mother. She didn’t even know how to bring it up. And knowing her mother, it was only a matter of time before the conversation would finally come up. If only her father wasn’t on a business trip and her brother wasn’t who knows where, perhaps they could have helped easy the tension her brain insisted was there

“Helena, dear, you have hardly touched your food.” Her mother observed much sooner than Helena planned, “Is everything alright?”

“I am fine Mum.” She attempted to give her a reassuring smile. “I… I guess I have just been thinking… about someon- thing! Thinking about something” she cringed at her stumbling of words, there went her attempt at surviving this break from school without her mother finding out what happened at that fateful quidditch match. Her face likely looked even more like she was hiding something, and her mother was able to read that like a book.

“Sweetie.” Her mum softly eyed her with concern, “You know you can tell me what’s going on.”

Helena sighed, “I’m sorry… I guess I was just worried about bringing it up. It’s just… back at that quidditch game… I saw colors for the first time and-“

“You met your soulmate?” Her mother’s eyes widened and brightened with happiness that nearly startled Helena due to its suddenness, “That’s wonderful!”

“That’s the thing…” Helena awkwardly continued her previous statement, “I would not say I have ‘met’ them. What happened was I was nearly hit in the face by a bludger, don’t worry, I avoided it. But when I looked to see where it came from, I met eyes with one of the Slytherin quidditch players and the next thing I could know I could see color and that quidditch player was somewhere on the other side of the quidditch pitch.”

“I see…” Her mother breathed, looking as if she was thinking about something.

“Sorry I didn’t tell you earlier.” Helena apologized, “I wanted to tell you, I need to talk with someone other than my roommates at some point. I just… didn’t know how you would react. You were never really open about it before…”

“I suppose I haven’t.” Her mother agreed quickly rather than denying her flaws, “I apologize if I made you feel like you couldn’t talk to me about that. I guess I just let my own experience take control, but I suppose I should tell you the story. Might be a bit of a tangent but you’ll get the point I promise.” Her mother sighed, “I was one of the ones who saw colors early on, back in my first year of Hogwarts. My father, your grandfather, had sent me a howler that day, furious that I was sorted into Hufflepuff rather than Slytherin. One of my classmates, a Ravenclaw, approached me to see if I was alright and we connected the dots after the world burst into color before our eyes. He was my closest friend, yet I knew my fate. I was a pure blood where he was not, and my father already had very little patience. I was… scared of what he would say. So many pure bloods ignore the soulmates for the sake of preserving social status, and I knew my parents would be the same way. So before our graduation, I ended things with him out of fear and we never crossed paths since. A few years later I took charge in my life when I met your father and found another form of happiness.” Her mother’s bright blue eyes moved back towards looking at Helena. “All of this is to say, I don’t want you to lose your soulmate because of what others may think, including myself and your father. You know better than any one of what makes you happy. Don’t let your chance at love slip through your fingers.”

Helena gave a small smile after a few moments of silence to let her mother’s words sink in, “Thanks Mum. I just need to figure out who it is first…”

•••••••••••••••••

Another week of classes had passed and Helena found herself once again at another weekend. Yet unlike the previous one where she spent it with the comfort of her mother’s company, this one would be spent at Hogwarts. And that certainly wasn’t a bad thing but just something that left Helena once again at the mercy of her own thoughts.

It was why Helena did what she always did when she was stuck in her own thoughts and needed some time to reflect, going outside. Breathing in the fresh air always seemed to alleviate any stress she had, and even this particular flurry of thoughts of hers seemed to lessen even if only slightly. Being the daughter of a renowned herbologist, it had always been natural for Helena, who spent a large amount of her childhood in the greenhouse. Of course, even she felt some variety was necessary and found herself heading to the training grounds when the flying classes would be hosted and the quidditch pitch was in sight.

In the distance, she could even see some quidditch players participating in a friendly match. It seems to be Gryffindor and Hufflepuff judging by the ruby red and golden uniforms, so she didn’t feel pressured in walking all the way over there. If she was to figure out who her soulmate was, she would need to figure out more about the Slytherins who were a part of that match that fateful day. She didn’t even think about talking to Skye or Orion but it likely wasn’t worth it. Orion would likely give her some philosophical riddle she was not in the mood to solve while Skye would simply insult the competition rather than enlighten her on who her soulmate could have been. Perhaps her soulmate would come to her, but it seemed unlikely, it had been a couple of weeks since then after all.

As she walked along one of the dirt paths, she found herself turning her head to the right and noticing a blonde Slytherin practicing on the training grounds. She had heard from Penny enough about the Slytherin’s reputation to know it was Slytherin’s star beater, Erika Rath, who practiced non-stop whenever she wasn’t on the pitch or keeping up her marks in her classes. Perhaps she was better with Skye and other quidditch players in that regard as many neglected their studies for the sake of quidditch.

Erika looked so intensely focused on the training dummies as she swung her beater’s bat with all her might and watched with satisfaction as the bludger managed to knock each of the dummies down one by one. Helena pitied the chasers who opposed her and supposed she was thankful that she had not found herself in such a position. Skye had always talked about Erika Rath in the worst light, saying that she used her brash actions on purpose and desired to cause harm to express her own prowess. Helena pondered how much of that was true, for what she did know, Erika appeared to be a bit of a loner, simply keeping casual acquaintances with her peers and teammates.

Before Helena knew it, she watched as Erika looked over the sight with satisfaction and wrestled the bludger back into its case, latching it securely. Erika swung around rather quickly and eyed her causing Helena’s face to redden, especially as she recognized those bluish green eyes of hers from earlier. Someone must have casted Lumos to enlighten her on the soulmate topic as after looking at Erika once again, she did not even feel the need to look at the other Slytherin quidditch players as the eyes surely matched Erika’s. She probably looked like a fool in that moment, stopping in her place and simply staring, and Erika did not take long to observe her mannerisms.

“You came to watch Durazzo?” Erika commented with a peculiar smile on her face.

“I was just walking in the area…” Helena awkwardly rubbed the back of her head, pondering if Erika had connected the same dots she had. Judging by her quite uncharacteristic behavior perhaps she had. “It’s a nice day after all.” She added before instinctively walking over towards the blonde Slytherin.

“I meant to apologize for that bludger a couple of weeks ago.” Erika surprisingly apologized, so unlike how many of the rumors interpreted her.

“That was you?” Helena’s eyes widened before realizing that she did only have a fifty-fifty chance between the two beaters, and with someone as such a ruthless reputation as Erika it was always bound to be her.

“Yeah.” Erika shrugged, “Ended up hitting the bludger with my bat at an awkward angle due to a missed perception of the bludger’s location, and before I knew it, that bludger was heading towards the stands. I know we don’t know each other that well, but it’s good to see you not be locked up in the hospital wing.”

“So you…?” Helena blushed.

“Yeah…” Erika smiled in a way that was so perplexing given her tough exterior. “It took me a bit to figure it out. But your hair was what gave you away to me. And ever since I was trying to figure out how to interpret our fate and those feelings.”

“I have been too.” Helena looked off to the side. “But regardless, I think we will have a bright future ahead of us.”

[lauperak]

Helena is an owl, hoot hoot 🦉

[missnight0wl]

Hey, quick question. Is your MC Helena exclusive with anyone?

In the game, Helena is exclusive with Jae. But to be completely honest, I decided to go exclusive mostly because of the 6-energy bonus. I don’t really care about in-game dating, and I ignore most of the romantic quests.

In my version of the story, Jae has a crush on Helena, but she remains oblivious to it, and she doesn’t date anyone during her school time. It’s not necessarily that she has no feelings for Jae, but she’s so busy with the Cursed Vaults and everything it includes that it’s simply easier to just accept the conclusion: “we’re very good friends”. Funnily, the Cursed Vaults are also why Jae keeps his crush secret. He believes that everything Helena is dealing with is more important than his feelings.

They eventually do get together in their adulthood, but I don’t think it’d happen until they’re in their late 20s or maybe even early 30s.

Thank you for asking! :)

[canigetahoyaaa2007]

Love & Legends The Harem Sisters.

New character information.

So this is only a new character info and after this will be first chapter, I try to do it well enjoying but I won't promise it'll be cringe. Let me introduce the new character of the story... Natalia Harem!.

Natalia Harem.

Age: 28.

Sexuality: Lesbian.

Has any abilities?: Yes, she can turn into a wolf if she wants she can be partially wolf meaning she has her wolf ears and tail. Her rank is also an Alpha but as she is a human she doesn't belong to any pack. Her only pack is her sister and their new friends (and future sister in law).

Personality: Protective, cold, soft (if needed), overprotective big sister mode is always on.

Look: Natalia has the same hair color as her younger sister, her eyes are brown, she used to have her hair down with a bun. She mostly wearing black clothes instead others. She always has a cold stare on becouse she promised her parents that she will protect Halsey (MC's name of mine) from anything and anyone also she killed many ex of her younger sister.

Nicknames: Nati (by her best friend and Halsey), Sis (By Halsey), Furry (By Koda (her best friend and older brother of Sophie (idk what Sophie's age might me)), Little Wolf (By Altea Bellerose), Puppy (By Helena Klein).

Was in relationship: Never, but it'll change in the story.

Also story will contain Altea's Route, what later you find out yourself.

That's all. See you in the first chapter!.

[ariparri]

A Erina (Erika x Helena) chibi drawing for @helenadurazzo as a gift for taking part in the Winter Festival Event in the HPHM Amino! I hope you like it ╰(*´︶`*)╯♡

❌ NO REPOSTING ❌

[megatraven]

one day i really will make my alex x mc coffee shop au a reality

[daydreamsonacloudyday]

I went a little apeshit on Helena's character page.

[bastart13]

What's the game you're making? What's the premise?

Love and Legends is a fantasy isekai dating sim, originally written for and produced for the Lovestruck app. The app shut down a few years ago, and though the game is archived in videos here (x) I wanted to give remaking it a shot.

The premise is that one day, the MC has just got out of work, only to be struck by lightning and teleported to a fantasy world of knights, elves, fairies... and evil queens. And turns out she looks just like the evil queen, the one killed three years prior. People in the world either want her in a dungeon or to restart war as their despotic overlord and she has to learn to navigate the world, chosing someone to stay by her side.

There are seven love interests:

Lord Reiner Wolfson - A second-born son of the former leader of his domain, forced to become leader after his family died fighting the Witch Queen. A kind, considerate leader with a love of bad jokes, prepared to but the weight of the world on his shoulders to protect what remains of his loved ones.

Altea Bellerose - A young, gifted wizard who's devoted most of her life to refining her art and fighting for justice. She's deeply curious, quick-witted, and determined to prove herself against those who might dismiss her.

Prince Iseul Idreis - An elven prince with a family history with Reiner's, who served him in war and now takes time to enjoy the peacetime. Laid-back and sharp-tongued, he seems to take nothing too seriously but cares deeply for his friends.

Saerys - The last known demon after the Witch Queen launched a brutal extermination of his people. Isolated and marked, he struggles to find his place in the world. As much as he loves and trusts his allies, he does not believe he has a place among them.

Sir August Falke - Reiner's most loyal knight and fiercely protective of their won peace. He does not allow any threat to pass, even if it leaves him a little uptight. Taking care of his beloved noble steed, Wyndsor Royale, shows off a softer side to him.

General Helena Klein - The Witch Queen's general, former lover, and apprentice, Helena's gift with magic breaks bounds. Though she has a long, dark history of pain, even when she thought it might be love, she hopes for a way to escape.

General Alain Richter - The Witch Queen's longest-standing general and oldest friend, he followed her down an evil path, sowing pain whenever she commanded it, he wants nothing more than to return to a time where he and his love find peace together.

The writing is overall very impressive, with a strong sense of character chemistry and dialogue. There's a lot of variety between the characters and routes, each following a unique story with variations on the world's lore. The MC is a surprisingly strong character in her own right, allowing interesting dynamics between her and the love interests rather than a default.

[helena-thompson]

ANGEL IN A SPRING FIELD Summary: Helena and Sebastian celebrate the coming of the spring season. Pairing: Sebastian Sallow x Female MC Words: 1,285 Rating: Explicit Tags / Warnings: Oneshot, POV Third Person, Canon Compliant, Post-Canon, Romance, Fluff, Smut, Kissing, Established Relationship   

Sometimes, when Sebastian looked at Helena, she looked like an angel.  Especially now, with the sun shining on her dark blonde hair, giving her an ethereal, golden glow. The flower crown she wore was like a halo, and the sound of her laugh filled the dark recesses in his soul, lifting him up.

Read on AO3 →

[cuffmeinblack]

Veil

Richard Jackdaw x f!MC (Lila Kirke)

Chapter 3: Heart and Soul

Series tags: explicit | smut | pining | voyeurism | masturbation | sex | angst | death

Summary: Richard attempts to keep his distance from Lila as his guilt over his affection grows.

"Have you thought over your dilemma?" she asked, eyes fixed on something in the distance. "I have," Richard nodded. Helena waited, not bothering to fill the silence, letting it linger and grow awkward. Perhaps social etiquette had evolved since however many hundreds of years ago she had died. "Well, I thought it best to avoid her for the foreseeable," Richard said. Helena simply nodded, looking solemn once again. "Perhaps it is for the best to keep your feelings a secret. I would so hate to see your love spurned," she replied with a shudder made for dramatic effect. "You don't believe she feels as I do? I'm sure I…" "Richard, we are merely pale imitations of the people we once were. No living girl could truly love you."

[helenadurazzo]

Miscalculation

Part One of my rewrite of Year 7, Chapter 51, also featuring the fall of R, spoilers ahead

“The snitch has been caught!” The commentator loudly and enthusiastically informed the crowd. “The Holyhead Harpies gains a victory over the Wimbourne Wasps, allowing their position for the quidditch league cup to advance!”

Helena cheered loudly at the sound of the announcement, just like the other Harpies fans who were either dressed in emerald green and gold, or had fan merchandise such as flags, with those colors. It had certainly been an exciting match, although the Harpies were behind for the majority of the game. However, they managed to pull through. In fact, the other seeker would have probably grabbed the small golden ball with wings first if it wasn’t for them being distracted by a bludger sent by none other than Helena’s girlfriend, allowing just enough time for the Harpies’ own seeker to snatch the golden snitch

She watched as a familiar blonde hair figured approached her with a smile, “Hope you enjoyed the game.” Erika had managed to get Helena and her brother VIP tickets for the game so not only was she in one of the best spots to watch the match, it also was not very crowded, and accommodated for a casual conversation, even equipped with enough room to land a broom as many of the VIPs went to await seeing other members of the team, “Want a ride? I know a wonderful spot near the pitch.”

“Of course!” Helena happily exclaimed.

“Do not forget we have to meet up with Mum and Dad soon.” Her older brother, Jacob attempted to remind her, “Aunt Cynthia is coming to visit , remember?”

“I have not forgotten.” Helena replied as she carefully got on the broom. “Chill.”

“I will get her back in time.” Erika assured him, seemingly noticing Jacob’s somewhat impatient attitude, “Don’t you worry.”

As they flew away, Helena could imagine her brother with his unimpressed, yet reluctantly accepting face. She remembered how when she first told Jacob about Erika, how he went into an overprotective brother mode, however, took a few steps back when he realized that Erika could be a fair match for him, after all, she was a skilled dueler, even though the majority of her talents fell within the realm of quidditch.

Erika flew the broom towards a beautiful meadow with colorful flowers that was still within sight of the quidditch pitch. In fact, the two probably could have walked there if they could not fly or apparate. The bright shining sun brought the meadow to life by seemingly enhancing the vibrant colors of each and every petal. It reminded her of the time Erika surprised her with a nighttime tea date in one of the greenhouses following the Valentine’s day dance when both of them were at Hogwarts. Helena figured that Erika had learned by now that it did not take much to impress her in the end.

“You did wonderful out there!” Helena congratulated her girlfriend again with a warm embrace once she landed her broom, getting off carefully and then looking back towards Erika as she held her broom firmly. “The seeker may be the one to seal the victory by catching the snitch, but without beaters like you and Gwenog, they would never have a chance.”

Helena was never a super fan of quidditch when she was younger and could not claim any different now. However, what she definitely knew was that she had found a favorite quidditch team in the Holyhead Harpies, although she might have been a little biased. After all, her girlfriend did certainly look magnificent in her emerald green uniform that was not all that different from the dark green uniform she wore when she played for Slytherin as a student.

“I am still technically a reserve.” Erika reminded her with cautious optimism. “I only got to play this match because Rhonda fell badly ill with dragon pox.”

“Wasn’t she planning on retiring at the end of the season?” Helena asked curiously, hoping not to sound insensitive, “or was it the next one?”

“Yeah, although she was quite speculative about it.” Erika admitted. “As much as I want to be a permanent player, it’ll be sad to see her go, she has been a staple of the Harpies for many years.“

“You do make a good point.” Helena agreed. Although she had never met Rhonda before, she did recall seeing her name pop up a number of times, having at least part of the credit of successful victory to Harpies credited to her.

“I don’t want to make this all about me, so what have you been up to?” Erika asked.

“Well, you can not tell anyone what I am about to tell you.” Helena quietly began, glancing around her, “because if the wrong person hears this, it could ruin everything and we’d have to recalculate.”

“Does this have to do with R?” Erika questioned quietly, picking up on the need for secrecy.

“Yes.” Helena nodded, “Me and Jacob have a plan on how to take them down. Basically, we are going to get as many aurors as we can and ambush them at their next meeting, ending their reign of terror right then and there, and no one will get hurt ever again.”

Erika nodded at Helena’s brief explanation, “You have not told any of the members of the Circle of Khanna about your plan?” Erika skeptically asked.

“We have many members who are great with combat.” Helena explained, “Talbott and Tonks have been working hard to become an auror after graduation, and Jae knows his way around Knockturn Alley so he knows how to defend himself against dark magic. Regardless, we are all just students at the end of the day. The people we face if R are experienced with dark magic and much more knowledgeable than us, if the Circle of Khanna ambushed her, someone would get hurt, if not die for sure, and I cannot risk that. At least if we bring in Aurors, plus me and Jacob, no one else will need to get hurt.”

Erika sighed, “Seems like I am not talking you about keeping yourself out of danger am I? You need to remember that you are also not as experienced as the Aurors, and it’s simply because you have not had the extensive training they have had and nothing more, you want to go risk your life as well?”

“I managed to defeat Rakepick in the Sunken Vault.” Helena reminded her, “I may not be as strong as the Aurors or my brother, but I need to-“

“Shush.” Erika suddenly said, using her head to motion to someone who was most likely approaching them. She then leaned and whispered, “We will continue this later, just be careful.” into Helena’s ear.

Helena could not deny the fact that Erika had a strong point. However, she knew she was not like her peers, she never really was. None of them needed to get thrown into the cursed vaults and R nonsense but ended up being thrown in anyways, and it was her fault. She knew full well that if she had told her peers about her plan, they would not have questioned the idea of joining her, especially as it translated into Rowan’s death finally being avenged by contributing to the fall of the dark society that caused it. However, it was a risk Helena could not bear taking. Was her

plan complete nonsense? Possibly, however it did not matter much to her anyways, in a week, she told herself over and over again, replacing the amount of time with the necessary amount, this will all be over.

As these thoughts flowed through Helena’s head like a loud and rushing river, she noticed Gwenog Jones approaching them, like Erika she was still dressed in her Holyhead Harpies uniform, supposedly going to find them before heading to the tents to change like the rest of their teammates. She must had walked all the way there as Helena had not heard anything that could point to Apparation being the method of her arrival, unless her thoughts caused her to not hear the brief moment it happened, and she certainly did not have her broomstick in her hand. Still, Helena did not think much of it, after all, it made sense. Erika and Gwenog had been friends ever since they met during

their school years, with Gwenog serving as a mentor to Erika in the ways of being a beater.

“Great to see you again!” Gwenog called out with a smile, “How have you been Helena?”

“Good.” Helena replied simply, “Me and Erika were just talking about your victory against the Wasps, it was such an incredible match to watch.”

“Glad you enjoyed it!” Gwenog cheerfully replied, “Always happy to please a fan.”

“Any word about Rhonda’s condition?” Erika asked suddenly. “Is she recovering?”

“Hmm?” Gwenog started, as if she was caught off guard by the question, “Ah yes, Rhonda! I apologize, after all the prep work for this match and the insanity of actually doing said match has made the topic slip my mind you know?”

“Right…” Erika replied, however Helena could tell by her facial expressions that she was unconvinced.

Helena initially attempted to pay attention to Erika and Gwenog’s conversation, but an observation she silently made caused their conversation to become nothing but background noise. It was certainly hard to make out due to how bright the sun was shining, however Helena could confirm that there were two figures, on brooms, flying towards them. One was clearly a man, and by his messy black hair and seemingly lack of flying talent shown by how his broom refused to fly in a completely straight line, allowed Helena to determine that it had to have been Jacob who somehow managed to get his hands on a broom, rather than a more experienced member of the Wimbourne Wasps.

The second figure however, was much more difficult to determine. It was most certainly a woman, but her lack of wearing a green or yellow quidditch uniform determined she had either changed out of her uniform into more casual clothes, or like Jacob, was simply a spectator who got her hands on a broom, although she was certainly wearing the emerald green of the Holyhead Harpies. However, she started questioning more as the brooms got closer, and she could more clearly examine the woman who had a darker complexion and dark brown hair that almost appeared to be black that was styled in braids that flew gently with the wind, she almost looked like Gwenog, in fact, almost too much like Gwenog.

As if on cue, Gwenog suddenly turned around and pulled out her wand and did a quick swish of it but did not say anything. Almost immediately, her brother fell from his broom and succumbed to gravity, quickly tumbling towards the ground below him, however, the woman who looked like Gwenog more and more the closer she got, quickly landed her broom, stationed it to be directly below Jacob, and transfigured it into a mattress, which Helena inferred was certainly an improvement to landing awkwardly on the ground.

Normally, Helena figured that in the rare case she was ever involved in a situation that involved a doppelgänger and Gwenog, that Erika would need to be the one to tell the difference between the two. However, in this instance, even Helena, who did not know Gwenog as well, could even tell the difference. After all, she remembered during her first meeting with Gwenog Jones, she admitted to being poor with charms, even in the present. However, she also claimed she was one of the best in her year when it came to the art of transfiguration.

Helena grabbed her wand and pointed it threateningly at the imposter, however the woman only smirked as she uttered the word, “Expelliarmus.” With ease, causing for Helena’s wand to go flying out of her hand with a flash of scarlet light.

Her brother and Gwenog had their own wands out and engaged in a couple of spells back and forth with the fake Gwenog. However, the imposter managed to avoid each of their spells with ease, knocking both of them out with a stunning spell, though she herself even realized it would not give her a lot of time.

Helena watched as Erika instinctively stood in front of Helena as the woman turned towards them, “I do not know who you are.” Erika confidently spat at the woman, “but I won’t let you lay a single finger on her.” Helena assumed Erika did not have her wand with her, which honestly made sense as she hardly ever saw Erika with her wand during her training.

The woman only chuckled like a stereotypical villainess, Helena admitted it was cliche, but there was something about hearing an evil laugh in person that made it frightening, especially in a situation where you had no means to defend yourself effectively. Helena watched once more as the woman transformed herself into another form, Helena determined it was Verucca Buckthorn-Snyde, the director of R and according to multiple sources, one of the leader’s most trusted allies. Verucca looked as how Helena remembered her from spying on previous R meetings, an old woman with completely grey hair with the exception of a single part that was amber, not too unlike a certain Slytherin in her year.

“Unfortunately for you.” Verucca replied with a smirk as she grabbed both of them firmly most likely to enact a forced Apparation, “you don’t have a choice.”

[wlw-lovestruck-fiction]

Hello, dears! Here's part 2 to the Vampire Helena AU I'm writing for @loveinthekeyofx! It's a Love and Legends/Havenfall is for Lovers crossover! I do hope some of you will enjoy it ❤️ it is quite lengthy (just under 7k words), so part of it will be under a cut! - Mod Runa

TW: Discussions of insecurities, References to trauma, Body image issues.

You chuckled as yet another tiny spark of fire flew by your head and turned into smoke right before hitting the mirror, making Morgan sigh in frustration as her hand flinched. Smudging an otherwise perfect line of eyeliner.

"Jordan, I swear to everyone that isn't your Father. If you do that ONE more time!"

JD let out the most dramatic groan you had ever heard in your life and slinked a little further off their bed.

"But I'm so booooored. And you won't let me help with anything!"

You could see the reflection of their upside pout in the vanity, which only made you laugh harder. Morgan pinched the bridge of her nose and sighed.

"If you recall.. I gave you one very important job to do, JD.. the outfit. You're the one who decided to come up in here with a black leather bodysuit!"

JD smirked. "I stand by my decision. That bodysuit was fucking hot."

Morgan shook her head, turning her focus back to doing your make-up.

"Do you see what I have to put up with, Frances?"

"Pfft! You love me." JD replied with a wide, charismatic grin.

"They've got you there, Morgan." You chuckled.

"Ohh no.. don't you dare feed into them!"

You laughed before giving JD a tiny wink in the mirror. The last few months in Havenfall had probably been your most interesting thus far. Even without Helena coming into your life, finding out that not only were "monsters" real, but that you'd been living amongst them since you'd moved to the small town was almost too much to process at first. You could still remember the look of utter horror on Morgan's face when a slightly buzzed JD let their true identity slip.. and then how it grew when they proceeded to out everyone else inside Havenfall's Finest. At first you were convinced it was all a joke. The idea that the local bowling alley was run by a djinn and the town Sheriff was actually a werewolf seemed all too preposterous to even imagine, but the moment JD released their wings and shot a fireball off over the lake you knew they'd been telling the truth.

"The Jersey Devil? As in the Jersey Devil??" You had exclaimed.

"The one and only." They'd replied with a smirk.

To be honest it felt like just yesterday that you'd found out, but also that a part of you'd already known. The sleepy Midwestern town had always seemed to hum with unseen magic.

And now, you knew why.

"Alright! All done."

Morgan sat back in her chair and smiled, placing the tube of mascara back onto JD's dresser.

"I still say you should have gone with the bodysuit."

"Hush, Jordan. She looks great."

You couldn't argue with her there, the woman had done a damn fine job on your make-up. The subtle gold eyeshadow and flipped cat's eye accentuated the green and black top she had picked out perfectly. And your breasts had never been propped up higher in your life. You looked… good.

"I'm not saying she doesn't! But who wouldn't want to see those curves wrapped in leather!"

"I wouldn't." You answered with a laugh.

"Pfft.. you're both crazy. I'm going downstairs to check out the buffet- .. I mean, see if Razi needs any help."

"Please, do not add any of your crazy concoctions to the mix, JD."

The devil turned, giving their partner a faux look of hurt and betrayal.

"But.. you said you liked my pickle and mustard pie!"

"Jordan, please. Remember what we talked about."

They sighed, rolling their eyes. "Fineeeeee."

You chuckled as they stomped their way down the stairs to the bowling alley - the sounds and smells of Havenfall's Finest getting everything together wafting through the now open door.

"I hope you weren't too hard on them, Morgan. It's just Helena and I."

Although, "just Helena and you" couldn't be further from the truth. There was nothing "just" about the gorgeous blonde that had waltzed into your life only a few months prior. And even though the two of you had had your fair share of … Visits? Hangouts? Whatevers? ... you were far more nervous than you would ever let on.

"Listen.. I love them dearly, you know that, but if JD had it their way, that table would be filled with the most abominable culinary creations either of you have ever seen. And I don't want Helena getting scared away by Jordan's horrendous taste in food before any of us have even had a chance of getting to know her."

You put your hands up in surrender, chuckling even harder. "Alright, alright."

"Still.. we should probably make our way downstairs before they get any ideas…"

You snorted. "Good thinking."

***

The sun had just started to set when Helena walked out of the front doors to her apartment building, washing the vast Indiana sky in warm hues of oranges, reds and pinks - a stark contrast to the crisp bite that came with the late Autumn evening air. A soft ping from the blonde's phone and the hushed sounds of a stealthy stride were all that were to be heard as she walked down the otherwise empty street. A subtle smile coming to Helena's lips when she finally stops to check the notification on her phone.

Frances: Of course it is! Any friend of yours is a friend of mine :)

She breathed in a sigh of relief. Even though she knew Frances would be understanding, she still felt a little bad for inviting Vanessa along. Unfortunately the vampire knew it was the best opportunity for the Huntress to be able to meet everybody. To be able to tell her if anyone within Havenfall's inner circle had had anything to do with the coven that turned her. For one thing, the Sorceress' keen senses gave her the gnawing feeling that pretty much everyone who had connection with that bowling alley was likely not human - that she was almost certain - but as for the specifics, those she was unclear on.

That's where Vanessa Helsing came in. Coming from a long line of vampire hunters, she had been tracking the same coven as Helena for months, eager to take them down - to wipe them out. She was the only person Helena knew who had seen almost every person of importance within Dagon's coven. So, needless to say the two had quite a bit they could gain from one another.

Helena had told the Huntress to meet her at the bowling alley, and there she stood. Cladded in black leather under a dim street light - her dark hair almost rivaling the night sky above.

"Good evening, Vanessa."

"Evening, Helena. You sure you want to do this?"

The blonde nodded.

"Your knowledge has been immeasurable in my progress, Helsing. Even if we find no accord within, your presence is still appreciated. Frances means a great deal to me. I need to make sure she's protected."

Vanessa smiled before nodding. "Alright, then. After you."

***

"Wait.. what do you mean she's bringing someone? Like, a friend?"

You placed your phone face down onto the counter and shrugged.

"Ah.. more like a colleague, I guess? I don't really know much about her, honestly."

Helena had only mentioned Vanessa once before to you, months ago when she named her as the client she'd met with that day at the bowling alley. (Though, according to Morgan, the two of them never even made it there that day.) But other than that, the specifics of their relationship were a complete mystery to you.

"Mhm.. well, I'm going to be keeping an eye on said colleague."

You were about to tell Morgan not to bother when the doors to the bowling alley abruptly opened, a rush of cold air as Helena and who you presumed was Vanessa walked in. You couldn't help your mouth from falling open a little at the sight. Helena, of course, looked breathtaking - radiant. With a deep cerulean low cut shirt covered in a red blazer. The colors a perfect contrast to her moonlit hair. The woman next her to her, though… I guess when you had thought of the word 'colleague', she wasn't quite what you had in mind. Morgan leaned in a bit, nudging you softly before whispering.

"Oh, I am definitely going to be keeping an eye on her."

You chuckled. "She's allowed to have friends, Morgan."

"Not friends who look like that and dress completely in black leather.. and, is that a bull whip connected to her belt??"

"Heh, my kinda friend." You heard JD mutter under their breath from behind you, which only led to Morgan scowling.

You cleared your throat. "Just.. be cool, guys."

You walked away from the pair before they could say anything else. And they weren't wrong. Vanessa was incredibly beautiful. With hair as inky as a night sky and a body that screamed nothing but self discipline and rigorous routine. But the way Helena's eyes lit up and how her smile widened at the sight of you definitely helped stifle some of the intrusive thoughts that were slowly trying to move in.

"My dear Frances, good evening. A pleasure as always." She exclaimed with a low bow. "This is Vanessa. I appreciate you allowing her to join us tonight."

You nodded. "Of course! Nice to meet you, Vanessa."

"Please, call me Van. And it's nice to meet you as well."

You turned just in time to see the rest of Havenfall's Finest coming up behind you. At least three of them with their mouths fully agape. You had to chuckle, fully aware of the effect Helena tended to have on people.

"Helena.. this is Razi, the owner and proprietor of this fine establishment. Mac, the town's Sheriff. Diego, Havenfall's finest doctor. And, last but not least, JD and Morgan, our resident chaos demon and their loyal girlfriend. Everyone, this is Helena."

Razi and Mac both gave the blonde a very exuberant "Hello!", shaking her hand. You even swore you saw tiniest hue of pink rising to the Sheriff's cheeks as Helena responded with "A pleasure." Diego on the other hand, seemed more anxious than anything, his gaze shifting back and forth between the two women. As for JD and Morgan, while both were as friendly as ever, Jordan wouldn't be Jordan if they didn't do their best to lay on the charm.

"So, this is the woman that's been stealing our friend away from us… not that I can blame her."

Helena, of course, chuckled gracefully. "Much apologies."

"Mhm.. I'm sure."

You gave JD a pleading look, hoping they'd take the hint and stop before they said anything else. Which thankfully they did, giving you a playful wink instead.

"And this is my.. colleague, Vanessa."

The group gave the mysterious woman a unified greeting, all except for Diego who only nodded and JD who whistled low.

"If that's a colleague, I really need to get myself into the security business."

Both Vanessa and Morgan glared in their direction, an act that quickly made the enby rub the back of their neck nervously.

"A-anyways, let's get this party started, shall we?!"

"Very smooth, Jordan." Morgan replied, rolling her eyes.

You had to hand it to them all, the bowling alley looked absolutely enchanting. And while you were well aware that Morgan and JD cared greatly for you, the lengths that the rest of Havenfall's Finest went to to make sure the evening went as smooth as possible was, needless to say, incredibly heartwarming.

The ceiling was strewn with more twinkle lights than you had ever seen and the long table in the center of the main room had just about every guilty pleasure food you could possibly think of. You made sure to make a mental note to thank Razi later for not letting JD have any say in the buffet. Though, you had to laugh when you came across a small, yet very suspicious pie at the bottom of the table with the distinct aroma of mustard coming from it. It was almost crazy to think how in just a few short months this hodgepodge group of cryptids had almost become like a second family to you. Even Mac was dressed in something other than her usual sheriff's uniform.

You were just about to walk over to where Helena and Vanessa were standing when Morgan pulled you aside. Her brow slightly furrowed.

"Hey, I didn't want to say anything in front of JD because they'd just go all detective mode on us, but I know I've seen Vanessa somewhere before. And Diego seemed on edge as soon as she walked in."

Your gaze lingered over to where the two women stood talking, obviously in the middle of a rather serious conversation.

"Hm.. wish I could say I knew more about her. Helena isn't very forthcoming about the ins and outs of her job."

"Yeah. Well, if I think of anything, I'll definitely let you know."

You nodded. "Yeah, sure. Thanks."

Morgan gave you a reassuring squeeze on the shoulder before wandering off to find JD. Even with the party finally starting to get under swing, your mind couldn't help but begin to drift off to more unsavory thoughts. Just how often did Vanessa frequent Havenfall if both Diego and Morgan seemed to recognize her? Did that mean Helena was meeting with her more often than she'd let on? Were they closer than just colleagues? I mean, you couldn't blame her for choosing someone who looked like Vanessa over someone who looked like.. well.. you..

She was hot.. fit.. beautiful in a way you could never be.

And you were, well.. you.

You subconsciously pulled at the blouse that just a few moments ago had filled you with such confidence, wondering if there was even a point. How could you compete with that? With.. her? How could you be expected to-

"Frances?"

You were jerked abruptly from your thoughts, Helena's pensive face in front of yours.

"Is something the matter? You looked a thousand miles away."

Immediately filled with embarrassment, you quickly shook your head.

"Oh! Yes, no.. I'm fine.. really, I'm fine!" You answered, chuckling nervously.

The blonde hummed low before linking her arm in yours.

"Well, then.. come and accompany us over by the stage, hm?"

The.. stage??

As you followed Helena past the lanes and towards the back of the arcade room, you found that the blonde was right - there was indeed a small platform back there. One that you were certain hadn’t been there before.

"What in the-"

"Ohhh, just wait! You guys are gonna love this!" JD exclaimed as they practically ran over to the two of you. More excited than you'd ever seen them.

"JD.. what.."

"Fuck! Is Razi ever gonna regret buying this." They laughed, holding up a small microphone.

Karaoke. Razi had actually purchased a karaoke machine. Gods, save us all.

The moment JD slipped on their sunglasses, stepped onto the stage and started dancing around it, Morgan's sigh was all too prevalent in your ear as she came to stand beside you - a low baseline coming through steadily from the speakers. You chuckled before turning to her.

"That bad, huh?"

She sighed again. "Jordan's actual singing voice is really quite nice, but of course they'd never be caught dead using it properly in public."

"Ah, gotcha."

You laughed and shook your head, trying to figure out where you had heard that guitar riff before and why it sounded so familiar. You were fairly certain the song choice was of the Metal genre - which would be on par for JD's taste in music - but the underlying melody reminded you of something else. Of something you'd heard a million times before but couldn't quite put your finger on-

Oh.. oh no

JD smirked as the intro diminished, the first lyric sung boastfully from their lungs.

"We're no strangers to looove…"

Morgan groaned immediately. "Jordan! For fucks sake, no!"

"You know the rules, and so do IIII…"

Helena turned to you, obviously a bit amused at the crowd's reaction.

"I am afraid I do not understand the reference. Why are so many people opposed to this song choice?"

JD sang even louder. You wouldn't get this from, any other enbyyyyy."

You did your best to speak loud enough for the blonde to hear you, giving her a quick background of the song and what it meant to be "Rick Rolled". Helena laughed and nodded before turning back to the entertainment, her foot tapping along with the melody.

"Never gonna give, gonna give.. give you up!"

Much to her dismay, you couldn't help but laugh and cheer every time JD pointed to Morgan during the chorus. An act that only made her groan even louder. And the moment the song ended, you could hear Razi yelling from the back of the room.

"I'm docking your pay for that, Jordan!"

The enby bowed dramatically, giving you a little wink before hopping off the stage.

"Mh.. seems that is my queue, little one." Helena whispered to you, giving you a smirk.

"Wha-?"

You stood, a blush already dusting your cheeks and your mouth agape. She was.. she was going to sing???

You took a deep, steadying breath. Completely unaware that the blonde could even carry a note let alone that you would be graced with whatever celestial sounds were about to part from that delicious mouth of hers. But there she was, basked in a kaleidoscope of colors from the lighting above and looking absolutely ethereal.

"Hold steady, Frances."

You swallowed hard, side-eyeing Morgan. "I'll do my best."

And while you had never heard of the song Helena had chosen before, you knew the moment the first note left her lips that you were done for. A hauntingly beautiful melody - smooth Alto notes sang in a soft (what you assumed was her native tongue) German. Your mouth was still open when JD came to stand next to you, nudging you softly in the ribcage.

"Hear something you like? Hm?"

They wiggled their eyebrows at you but all you could do was stare. Of course she sang like a fucking goddess. Of course she was fucking perfect.

Too perfect.

Too fucking perfect.

And here you were, with your mediocre self, expecting her to feel the same? Pssh.

"Psst.. you know what has to happen now, right?" Morgan whispered, her eyes glued to the stage and the incredible being that was on it.

"No."

"Yes! You'd blow her away and you know it."

"No. Not a chance."

"Yess, you have to."

"Are you even listening to her right now? It's-!"

"Don't you dare tell me it's pointless, Frances. Just because she has a gorgeous voice doesn't mean that yours isn't just as hot!"

For the first time since Helena had started singing you looked away from the stage, staring blankly at your friend. "... y-you think… I'm.. ah-"

"Yes, I think, and so does JD… and Razi.. and everyone else in Havenfall who's heard you sing to yourself. So.. you're going to get up there and you're gonna make that woman breathless!"

You sighed, admitting defeat. "Fine, but I choose the song!"

"Fine! Which?"

You smirked. "Rooms on Fire. Good luck finding it."

Morgan smirked even wider and you immediately swallowed. "Bold of you to assume JD hasn't already programmed Stevie Nicks' entire discography into that thing. They've had a thing for her since forever."

You swallowed again. "... Fuck."

***

Helena's body was all a buzz as she stepped down from the small podium. Electrically charged and tingling from the applause of her soon to be peers. She wasn't even sure what had made her get up and do it. And by the look on Frances' face, she was just as stunned. But there was something about being in the round woman's presence that always gave Helena a boost. That gave her the type of courage that made her feel like she could do just about anything. And in that moment, all she wanted to do was to show that warm, delightfully kind woman one of her gifts.

And hopefully - just hopefully - receive some of hers in return.

So you can imagine the look of surprise that sprung to the vampire's face and feeling of elation that rolled over her when Frances stepped up onto the stage. As the same warm light that had just washed over her casted the woman in a brilliant hue, making her look even more beautiful to the Sorceress than she already did.

A brief lapse of time, a single breath of silence before the song started. And it was that moment, when the first flawless note fell from Frances' lips, that Helena knew. Knew why she'd initially been drawn to her and what had kept her so enthralled since.

After all this time, searching between the two realms in which she had inhabited, she had finally found her. A soul as pure and kind as the woman who had saved her from the darkness many years ago. The woman who bore the same face as the one who had stripped her of everything and gave her a life renewed. She had never once, in all her years since leaving the realm she then called home, came across another person who had shone as bright as that woman did.

But here, in that solitary moment of clarity, as the melodic notes rang out from Frances' body and danced across Helena like a lullaby from some other place - like a spell from some archaic time that sang out into the heavens and carved itself into sky - that's when she knew. That's when it all became clear, that Frances was also a keeper of that light - of that bright soul that soothed over the vampire like a celestial balm.

Helena also knew that from that point she'd no longer be able to ignore her feelings for the woman. That her tendencies to mute her emotions and stifle those desires within that seemed to burn with the heat of a thousand suns would no longer be possible.

And as she watched the music take hold of this incredible creature, with all of Frances' curves swaying to the melody - eyes closed and cheeks a gorgeous hue of rose - she made a silent vow to both herself and the woman in front of her. A promise that she would no longer take the coward's way out when it came to her heart and what it deserved. That she would channel that courage she always felt when Frances was around and finally tell her..

Finally tell her that she was, undoubtedly and without measure, falling for her.

***

You opened your eyes as soon as the last note faded off, the crowd before you standing stunned - in awe - almost in disbelief at what they'd just witnessed. And while you were more than used to people's reaction to your voice, you still smiled proudly to yourself. A subtle blush dusting your cheeks as a resounding applause rang out from some of your favorite people.

"Holy shit, Frances. That was incredible!" JD beamed. "You did our girl Stevie some serious justice."

You chuckled. "Thanks, Jordan."

"They ain't lying, friend, that was the best I've ever heard you sing." Added Morgan as she handed you a tiny piece of cloth for your forehead, which you gratefully took.

"Thank you, one might say I was a little inspired."

"Well, inspiration suits you well, then, little one."

Helena's praise caught you off guard, immediately making you turn and face her.

"I- .. uh.. th-thank you? I mean.. ahem.. yeah.. ah, thanks, Helena." You stammered, rubbing the back of your neck.

Helena only nodded but you could tell the blonde had wanted to say more. A fact that must not have been lost on Morgan either as she quickly cleared her throat and hooked her arm into JD's.

"Well, we'll leave you two to talk."

"We will?? But I was just about to ask Frances if she wanted to-"

JD's words stopped mid-sentence the moment their eyes caught Morgan's.

"Oh.. right.. I mean.. we'll leave you two to .. talk."

The enby's subtle tone and small wink was more than enough to fluster you before they sauntered off, your cheeks heating up ever so slightly.

"That Jordan is a rather peculiar person. They remind me of someone I knew back home."

For some reason the thought of Helena being friends with their own version of JD made you feel incredibly warm inside, almost as if an invisible thread had always connected the two of you.

"Really?" You laughed.

"Mh, indeed. His name was Iseul. Your friend Jordan has a very similar spark of mischief to them." She answered, the deep blues of her eyes seeming to wander off in thought for a moment before she continued. "You remind me of someone I once knew as well, Frances."

Now that.. that..

You took a deep, steadying breath as a wash of warmth spread over you like a freshly drawn bath, re-igniting the desire in you that you had, admittedly, done your best to ignore over the past couple of months.

You felt your cheeks heat up a little more before you spoke. "O-oh? Really?"

The blonde hummed, looking almost sad. "She was, until now, the kindest woman I had even known."

You swallowed hard, not even sure how to respond to that information. In all honesty, there was nothing more you wanted to do than grab onto her, hold her close, and scream out into the heavens how much she meant to you. But you also knew that, of all places, the local bowling alley was not the place to make such affections known.

Nor was it the right time…

Probably.

As you collected your thoughts, you took a moment to scan your surroundings. Razi and Mac had seemingly found themselves in a rather heated game of bowling as Diego watched, sipping silently from the tiny flask that he normally kept on him. As for the arcade area, you couldn’t help but chuckle when your gaze landed on JD and Vanessa going head to head in a very excited round of DDR, the sound of Morgan cheering them heard throughout the entire bowling alley.

You swallowed again before smiling and tentatively took the blonde's hand in yours.

"What do you say we take a walk after all of this? There's a place I'd really like to show you, if that's alright with you?"

Helena smiled in turn, her eyes brightening to almost match the color of her shirt. "I would like that very much, little one."

***

The crisp autumn air met Helena like an old friend as she stepped out onto the curb - the wind softly blowing just cold enough to bite at her cheeks, reddening them. With a large moon above them, the Huntress walked silently beside the Vampire, biding her time until they got to her van.

"I want to thank you again for coming, Vanessa." Helena spoke, breaking the silence.

"No worries at all. I had fun actually."

The blonde chuckled. "As did I."

Vanessa shifted nervously from one foot to the other, smiling in a way that made Helena more anxious than she would've liked. The idea of Frances not being safe when she wasn't around.. well, that was a thought that only made the Sorceress' heart sink.

"Out with it." She said plainly.

Vanessa sighed.

"Well, the good news is that I can confidentially tell you that nobody in Frances' immediate circle is part of Dagon's coven."

Helena nodded. "That is good, at least."

"That being said, I can also tell you that most of the people within that circle.. aren't human. And that at least one of them is a vampire."

Helena's gaze shifted quickly. "Which?"

"Diego."

The blonde hummed in thought.

"What about JD and Morgan?"

"Morgan is human as far as I can tell. JD is.. well, I'm not exactly sure what JD is, but it's an energy I've never encountered before. So, whatever they are, it's something rare."

Helena chuckled to herself, recalling the time when Frances had called JD 'one of a kind'.

"That does not surprise me. In your opinion, though, would you say that Frances is safe?"

Helena asked the question simply, for that was the most important thing. Everything else was secondary. Everything else could be discussed at a later time. On a night when the air wasn't so clear and she didn't have that incredible woman waiting for her.

The Huntress nodded, a curtain of dark hair falling into her face.

"I do. At this point anyways. I still have some digging to do, but I'll contact you if I find anything that makes me feel otherwise."

"You have my gratitude, Helsing. Thank you."

"Anytime. You just leave all the boring stuff to me and enjoy the rest of your night." Vanessa replied with a wink before climbing into her van.

The blonde smirked. "Oh, that I intend to."

***

To be perfectly honest, you'd been planning on taking Helena to the lake ever since the plans for that evening were first made. And when Jordan had found out, the spark of mischief and excitement in their eyes was so bright it almost lit up the whole room. Even before you had left the bowling alley they pulled you aside.

"You're still taking her to the lake, yeah?"

A cheeky wink and subtle smirk was all you got in reply when you answered 'yes', which only made you slightly nervous. You knew deep down that if JD had some sort of surprise in the works, it would only be in your favor. They knew how much Helena had meant to you. And honestly, other than Morgan, they'd been the most supportive through it all.

The sky was littered with thousands of twinkling stars as you pulled up to the lake, all paying homage to the bright moon that hung among them. That casted a brilliant reflection into the still water and made you all the more confident in your decision to bring her there. It was beautiful, just like Helena. Almost so that it almost seemed too luminous to be real…

… Just like Helena.

"I see why you like this place, little one." The blonde said, closing her door.

"Oh?"

"Mh, on a night like tonight, it almost looks like a painting."

You smiled, wanting to say more than a quiet "That, it does." As if any sight could compete with how the moonlight danced upon Helena's rosen cheeks and frolicked throughout her hair. How her eyes sparkled and gleamed, making the stars above only pale in comparison. She was a literal work of art, a masterpiece within herself. A goddess walking on earth. She was-

"Frances?"

Her soft tone caught you off guard, and when her gaze met yours you'd almost forgotten how to speak entirely. She looked at you in a way no other person had, as if you were a lifeline and she were a rope. Tethered and frayed and yet oh so beautiful.

"Ah, sorry.. was I staring?"

"Mh.. a little." She chuckled.

"S-sorry."

When you rubbed the back of your neck subconsciously she took your other hand.

"Do not be."

Her voice was soft but the look in her eyes was even softer. A subtle heat coming to your cheeks as she took your other hand in hers, leaning in ever so slightly.

Did she want to-

Was she going to-

Helena took another step closer and you almost immediately fell back, moving away with such abruptness that you nearly toppled over the hood of your car. But, of course, Helena caught you.

"Fuck. Sorry. I.. ah.. shit."

"It is I who should be sorry, little one. I should not have assumed."

For the first time since you'd met her, the blonde looked embarrassed. Which honestly only made you feel worse. You shook your head vehemently.

"No, no. Please. Fuck. You did nothing wrong, Helena. It's just.. ah.. there's some things about me we should probably talk about before this goes any further."

With that Helena took a step back, looking at you thoughtfully and nodded.

"By all means. I am, as they say, all ears."

Before a single word had even fallen from your lips you could feel the subtle sting of tears - pooling at the corners of your eyes and betraying your emotions. You hated this part. You always had. When the love interest finds out your secret and opts for just being friends instead. Though, admittedly, you had genuinely hoped for just a little more time before having to say goodbye to Helena.

"Frances." She said softly, your hands still in hers. "There is, without doubt, not a single thing you could tell me about yourself that I would not be able to accept."

There was a shadow of something darker that lurked within the blonde's gaze that instantly made you believe her. Her eyes a stormier blue than you'd seen before - heavier, sullen - as if they held an untold story of long ago. You took a deep, calming breath - for you knew that, despite your fears, there was nothing in the world you wanted more than to trust her.

"Alright, well.. you see, I'm.. demisexual."

You could tell by the look on her face that it was a phrase Helena hadn't heard before, her eyes giving you a once over.

"I apologize, Frances. I have not.. is this something similar to a demigod?"

At this you couldn't help but laugh, an act that was honestly much needed and actually made you feel a lot more relaxed.

You snorted. "I wish. I'm afraid the only "super power" it gives me is being somewhat sexually stunted."

Helena moved to stand next to you, leaning back against the front of your car - her gaze looking out thoughtfully onto the water.

"Would it help you to know, little one, that, in my own way, that is something I quite understand."

You turned to face her, fingers still locked in hers and resting on the hood of the car. She looked so open, so attentive to whatever it was that you had to tell her. Her eyes shimmering in a way that almost seemed magical. You took another deep breath and pushed back the tears that still were begging to be released.

"Alright.. here goes nothing.." You let out a heavy sigh and felt Helena squeeze your hand a little tighter. "Being demi.. basically means that without a strong emotional bond with a person, my sexual desire for them will be… lack thereof."

The blonde stood quietly, only listening, so you continued.

"While being demi is a spectrum, and some people may only need a strong friendship connection to feel that, for me… well.. it's usually always taken a very strong.. and albeit long.. romantic connection for me to feel, well, aroused with someone."

Helena nodded. "I understand."

"That being said.. you, Helena.. you've made me feel things that I very rarely ever feel, almost immediately.. and to say that I haven't thought of or wouldn't like to sleep with you already is well.. ah.." You felt your cheeks immediately redden and chuckled, shaking your head. "Here I am just assuming that's something you'd actually want from me."

Helena looked at you silently for a moment before speaking."... You assume correctly, Frances. I find myself very attracted to you."

And now you were blushing even harder.

"O-oh."

Helena chuckled. "You are an incredible woman, Frances."

"I.. well.." You took yet another deep breath, trying to collect your thoughts within the chaos of your mind. As if saying what you had to say wasn't hard enough already. "But see.. that's the thing, Helena.. like, you're so beautiful and kind and intriguing and sexy and to say I haven't thought of us together more than a few times in the last few months is well.. it's different for me and I... ahh-"

The blonde inched herself a little closer to you and hummed. "Breathe, little one."

And you did, deeply. Closing your eyes as you let the crisp Fall air and subtle undertones of juniper that rolled off of Helena wash over you.

"Attraction aside…" You exhaled, ".. with how my sexual desire works.. I have no clue when that would actually happen for us."

Helena nodded again. "I understand."

"And so, this is probably where you leave. And I can't even blame you.. 'cause who wants to wait months or even years before becoming sexually intimate with someone? Other than me, that is, but I'm an outlier and shouldn't be counted."

"My dear Frances, you should always be counted."

"Well, that.."

You grinned all too widely and looked down at your hands that were still interlocked. The subtle pink that dusted your round cheeks swiftly deepening and painting them in a warm crimson.

"And as it was, little one, I have absolutely no intention of leaving you. When I say that I find myself very attracted to you.. it is not solely on a physical level. You see, my soul feels lighter when you are near. My thoughts warm when I think of you and my heart seems to ache when I have not had the pleasure of your company for awhile. I believe that I am, wholey and without doubt, falling for you, Frances."

You stared at her blankly for a moment, no words to be had.

"As for my own shortcomings.. sexual and emotional trauma finds me on a similar acumen as you. So, please, do not feel as if we are far apart on these understandings."

You immediately almost felt angry at the thought of anyone mistreating her. This goddess of a woman who deserved to feel nothing but love and compassion for her rest of her days.

"Fuck, I am.. I'm so sorry to hear that, Helena."

The blonde waved her hand dismissively and closed the last bit of distance between you.

"It is a lifetime ago and a story for another night."

You nodded. "Just know I'm always here to listen whenever you're ready to talk about it."

"I know, dear one." Helena smiled, so openly and warmly that you felt your heart lurch a little. The subtle lines in the corners of her eyes creasing as she leaned in closer to cup your cheek. "May I kiss you?"

You felt your cheeks warm beneath the cool touch of her fingers, soft tears forming in your eyes and a laugh upon your lips. "Yes, Helena. You may."

And as her lips touched yours, fireworks lit up the world around you. Not just metaphorically - but physically. Bright and untamed - fire in the sky - that reached out across the heavens above you.

JD's surprise.

It had to be.

You smiled even wider as your kiss deepened. As sparkling embers rained from the sky and your hands came to frame Helena's face. You kissed her softly - tenderly - wanting nothing more than for her to feel just how absolutely precious she was to you. And when the kiss finally broke, you were both crying. Happy tears of emotions long felt. With bright bursts of reds and blues, of oranges and yellows, reflecting across the still of the water as the two of you embraced.

"I'm so glad you came tonight, Helena."

"Mh.. as am I. It was a lovely evening."

"Heh, that it was."

"And who would have thought, that all this time I was in the presence of such a remarkable vocalist."

Helena smirked, making you blush.

"Psh, speak for yourself! That song you sang was beautiful."

The blonde hummed, smiling. "Thank you, little one. It is named 'Diese kalte Nacht'. It is by the band Faun. I am rather fond of them."

You chuckled to yourself. You knew if JD were there they would have made one of their legendary puns right about now.. "Oh, so you'd say you're... FAUNd of them?"

"Well, I can't say that I understood any of it, but you sang it beautifully."

"As did you, Frances. I do not know of this Stevie Nicks, but I have to wonder if her voice is anywhere near comparable to yours."

You looked at her for a moment, mouth agape.

"Oh, that's it. We are so having a Stevie Nicks night at my place!"

"Mh.. consider it a date."

***

You had just crawled into bed when your phone went off.

Morgan: Yoooo.. you awake?

You: Yep! Just got home, actually lol.

Morgan: Oh? How'd it go??

You: Really, really good. We uh.. we kissed.

Morgan: I knew it! We knew she liked you! Jordan is gonna be fucking ecstatic when I tell them.

You: lol You guys are the best.

Morgan: Well, you deserve it :]

You: Thanks lol

Morgan: Ah.. not to add some unwanted mystery to the evening... but I figured out why Vanessa looked so familiar. Had a little chat with Diego after you left.

You: Oh????

Morgan: Um.. yeah.. she's a fucking vampire hunter.

You: A.. WHAT?!

[yjano]

Never The Same.

Part 11.

Pairings: Jake x Mc.

Warnings: Swearing, violence, angst, smut, other pairings;), traumatic experiences.

Words: 5.7k

Author's note: Honestly, this story is going to be a big piece of work and a lot of angst. It's not connected to the game at all. Because I always want to try something new and newer. Read it only if you're into angst stories, please. Thank you and let's go!

A small smile made its way onto my face as soon as I walked into Jake's office. Today would be my first official meeting where I would be considered a part of the group. Today was the very first day my new job inside this gang would start. I would no longer be serving coffee and cleaning. I would be here for tactical purposes only.

Today the meeting with Thomas was planned. Jake and Thomas were supposed to meet somewhere next week and the group wanted everything to go as smoothly as possible. They couldn't afford something to go wrong. Once Thomas would get suspicious of their true intentions for meeting him, he would surely never tell them anything about Tegan's whereabouts. On top of that, he would surely start a war against the red crew.

"Helena!" I exclaimed once I saw the small girl standing next to the coffee machine. The blonde girl was the one who would take over my role while I joined the group at the table. A part of me felt bad for her now that she was forced to be the one serving them during the meeting but a part of me was also hopeful for her.

Of course, I knew that she was scared to death of Jake and the other teammates at the table but then again, so had I been.

Everything turned out alright for me and I was sure everything would turn out alright for her too. Quickly I walked towards where the smaller girl was standing with a smile on my face.

"Hey!" I happily said while sending a bright smile her way. Shocked Helena looked at me before slowly looking down.

"H-hi Ms. Estrada." She spoke nervously while trying to do everything in her power to avoid eye contact with me. A confused look began to form on my face and I looked at her with raised eyebrows. Why was she being so formal with me?

"It's me, Helena. It's Mc, you don't have to be formal with me." I spoke to her in a friendly tone.

The two of us had been friends before and while I hadn't seen Helena in the past couple of weeks I wanted her to know that nothing between the two of us had changed. Yeah, I was part of Jake's group of people now but I was still the same girl.

"She should be formal to you Mc." Jake suddenly spoke from behind me. He softly laid a hand on my back while standing beside me.

"You're ranked way higher than she is. If she won't show respect to you then who will?" He then spoke before sending a wink my way.

"Don't be so sweet towards everyone baby, people might take advantage of that fact." Jake then finished before removing his hand from my back again and walking over towards his seat.

A tense silence began to form between Helena and me. Of course, Jake's words had been right, but Helena was my friend.

My friends weren't supposed to formally address me right? Jake himself was the damn boss of this gang and yet I had never heard Jessy or Lex formally address him. The both of them would laugh in his face if Jake ever proposed that idea.

"So, where are you sleeping nowadays?" I decided to ask. Helena and I had been sleeping on the same floor before. Our rooms had even been right next to each other.

Since the whole floor was currently unavailable she must've gotten another place to sleep too huh? However, the blonde girl looked at me as if I had grown two heads.

"What do you mean?" She asked, confusion lacing her voice. Helena looked like she had no idea what it was that I was talking about and a confused look began to form on my face as well.

"You know since our whole floor is unavailable right now due to a sprung water pipe," I explained to her. However, to my surprise, an even more confused look began to form on Helena's face and she softly began to shake her head.

"There isn't a-" She began to say but suddenly got cut off by Jessy who looked like she had come running our way.

"She sleeps on the guard's floor." She quickly said before looking at Helena with a serious look on her face. Soft puffs of air left her mouth and her face was a light red color due to the running she had done not even a minute ago.

"Right, Helena?"

Quickly the girl began to nod and her eyes grew big. I slowly began to raise both my eyebrows and I looked at the duo in front of me with a weird look on my face.

Jessy and Helena were both suddenly acting super strange and I had no idea why.

"Okay." I decided to say before turning around and walking towards my seat. I didn't want to busy myself with whatever it was that those two had going on.

Maybe the two of them had some kind of secret. Some secret I couldn't know of. Whatever it was I wasn't interested in figuring it out.

Once all the gang sat down and Helena had served everyone their coffee Jake cleared his throat.

"Right, so my meeting with Thomas is scheduled for next week and we need to talk about a strategy." He began to speak while looking around the table. This meeting was very important for Jake since he might finally find out where his stepbrother had been hiding all this time...

"I've got someone on the inside who keeps me up to date with everything he does but so far he doesn't have any information about Tegan," Kaden spoke up while softly blowing on his cup of coffee.

Kaden was known to have connections everywhere and this time he didn't disappoint again. If you needed information then Kaden was the person you needed to go to.

"My men have been watching his building too constantly and so far neither Valerie nor Tegan has decided to show up again," Dan added once Kaden was finished. Immediately all eyes were on him and he softly sighed.

"I guess it comes down to you to get that information next week Jake." He then added while looking at Jake. He softly nodded while a deep sigh left his mouth.

"Great, so we got nothing." Jessy then suddenly spoke with a smirk on her face. She leaned back in her chair while locking eyes with Jake.

"Then we can finally talk about interesting stuff now!" She continued the smirk on her face widening. All eyes were immediately on her and she softly began to laugh.

"So, are you two already more than friends or do I have to try even harder?" She asked while looking from Jake to me and back.

Immediately a dark red blush began to form on my face and I looked shocked at Jessy. Jake and I weren't anything close to being more than friends. I wasn't even sure if Jake considered me to be a friend.

Why the hell would Jessy embarrass the two of us like that. Lex immediately began to laugh loudly once those words had left Jessy's mouth.

"Yo I hadn't thought about it that way but I ship it," Lex said in an amused tone, clearly teasing the two of us. A deep sigh left Jake's mouth and an annoyed look became visible on his face.

"This is straight-up bullshit." He spoke before he softly closed his eyes and began to massage his temples.

"Why the fuck is that relevant for this meeting."

Sam, who had been quiet the whole time suddenly raised his hands while looking at the rest of the gang.

"I don't want to be rude or anything." He began to say before a wide smile became visible on his face too. "But I'm quite interested in this new subject. Where do I sign up for it?"

Immediately Sam received a high-five from Lex and Jessy and my eyes grew big. Why was everyone so interested in my and Jake's relationship? The two of us had nothing special going on. Why did everyone have to think that we did?

An even more annoyed look became visible on Jake's face as he looked at the three of them with a scowl on his face.

"Right, I'm not sticking around to listen to this bullshit any longer." He spoke before getting up from his seat and looking at me.

"You coming Mc?"

Immediately I stood up too and followed Jake outside. I would do anything to get away from the others right now. My whole face had been heating up and I was sure I was as red as a tomato by now. I didn't like this kind of attention at all.

"Make sure she can walk tomorrow Jake! I need her then!" Jessy shouted after the two of us. Immediately my blush increased tenfold and a shocked look made its way onto my face. Jessy had not just shouted that.

"Fuck you!" Jake shouted back before leaving his office completely and walking into the elevator. I quickly followed him and a sigh left both of our mouths once the doors of the big elevator closed. Never had I been so happy to be able to leave a room.

Now all that was left was the weird tingling feeling inside my stomach.

~

A delicious smell filled my nostrils as I watched how Jake skillfully was making a delicious-looking meal. After the awkward meeting of today, both of us decided to just go home and do absolutely nothing.

An impressed look began to form on my face as I saw how fast Jake chopped all the vegetables and my eyes grew big. He was skilled when it came to cooking and slowly I began to feel hungry. Everything Jake was making looked delicious.

It didn't take long before Jake finished cooking and within no time both of us were seated at the dinner table with big plates of delicious-looking food in front of us.

"I'm sorry about Jessy, Lex, and Sam today," Jake said right before he stuffed some food inside his mouth. A small smile made its way onto my face and I softly shook my head.

"Don't be. I know how they are and besides, you can't control what they say." I answered in a friendly tone while a small smile was still present on my face.

Slowly I took a big bite of my food and immediately the delicious taste filled my whole mouth. This stuff tasted as if it came straight out of heaven and softly I closed my eyes. I wanted to enjoy this food as much as I could.

Unfortunately for me, I was a disaster at cooking. Somehow I always managed to cut myself when I tried to cut vegetables and whenever I had to cook something it always ended up black and burned.

Luckily Jake wasn't anything like that and knew how to make a decent meal. Otherwise, the two of us would have starved by now.

It didn't take long before both of us had finished our meal and quickly I stood up to do the dishes. It was only fair that I would clean up after cooking since Jake had been the one who had done all the cooking.

However, Jake seemed to think differently and once I got up to get the plates and bring them to the dishwasher he did the same.

A deep red blush appeared on my face when I and Jake both reached for the same plate and accidentally brushed against each other. With a shy look on my face, I slowly looked up while my face slowly turned the color of a tomato.

However, to my surprise, a small blush was also seen on Jake's face as soon as the two of us locked eyes. Quickly Jake broke our eye contact again while clearing his throat.

"I'll start in the kitchen." He then spoke before letting go of the plate and walking over towards the kitchen as fast as he could.

A deep breath of air immediately left my mouth as soon as he walked away and I touched my cheeks with both my hands. I felt so shy and yet a tingling feeling was present in my stomach.

Lately, I had been feeling more and more at ease around Jake and somehow that weird feeling in my stomach began to appear more and more around him.

Jake made me shy when he looked at me and yet I wanted nothing more than that. I craved some attention from him and I felt like I was on top of the world anytime I got it. Was this just friendship or something more?

It didn't take long for me to place everything in the dishwasher and look up at Jake who was still cleaning the kitchen. Quickly I walked towards a cabinet to also get some cleaning supplies to help him even though he looked like he was almost done.

I would have appreciated it if someone would help me and thus I would do the same for someone else. However suddenly two strong arms wrapped around me and my eyes grew big immediately once I felt small puffs of air hit my cheek.

"Why don't you go to the living room and pick out a movie while I finish cleaning?" Jake softly whispered into my ear while pressing his chest against my back.

Immediately my blush from earlier returned, and I felt goosebumps all over my body. It was as if he knew exactly what to do to make me feel shy and excited at the same time.

"O-okay," I answered softly while a shy tone was lacing my voice. Being around Jake was already enough to make me feel very shy but now that he was hugging me, it was even worse.

Sure I enjoyed it a lot but I had no idea what I was supposed to do. Of course, I'd want to turn around and hug him back but Jake would probably think that I was nuts and laugh at me. That is something I didn't want to experience.

Soon Jake unwrapped his arms from my waist before turning around and walking back to the kitchen to get back to his cleaning duty.

A big sigh left my mouth and I walked towards the living room while feeling all kinds of things inside my chest. Jake fucked up my feelings and even though he wasn't aware of that fact he was doing everything he could to make me feel as confused as possible.

Slowly I sat down on Jake's big couch before turning on the tv and going straight to Netflix. That app must have some good movies right? As I was scrolling through the movies all I could think about was the warm embrace I had gotten from him and thus I wasn't paying attention to what movie we were gonna watch.

As long as it wasn't some romantic shit I was fine with it. I didn't need to create the most embarrassing atmosphere ever by putting on some of that lovey-dovey stuff.

"Have you found something interesting?" Jake spoke as he walked into the living room and took a seat right next to me. Immediately I became nervous again and thus I picked out the first movie I saw. The Conjuring didn't sound too bad right?

"You sure about that one?" Jake spoke while he raised his eyebrows.

"Yup." I quickly answered, nervousness lacing my voice.

Truth was that I had no idea which movie I had picked out. Jake's presence had made me once again very nervous and thus I had clicked on the first thing that I had seen. Let's just hope this movie isn't too bad.

Thirty minutes later I regretted my choice. I was scared to death and I was hugging a pillow like my life depended on it. I hated horror movies all of my life and yet that had to be the genre I had picked out. This damn movie would surely haunt me in my dreams and I didn't like it one bit.

Jake next to me was only laughing every time I jumped in fear again and he softly took my pillow out of my hands before taking me in a warm embrace.

"We can watch something else if that's what you want." He softly spoke in a loving tone while caressing one of my upper arms. Immediately the blush from before returned to my face and my eyes grew big.

Nevertheless, I did lean back into his embrace while slowly taking his unoccupied hand and taking it in my own.

"No, it's fine," I spoke as a small smile began to make its way onto my face. If watching a horror movie got me this close to Jake then I would be willing to watch it some more. Jake began to laugh softly while shaking his head.

"Whatever you wish baby."

~

Can anybody be happy if they aren't free? That is a famous quote said by none other than Belle from beauty and the beast. She wasn't only pretty, she had a strong personality and was super smart too.

I had never been able to understand how you can grow to love the one who took everything away from you. Lately, I changed my thought about that very fact.

I got captured by someone who is feared by everyone. I was also held captive by that same person and even though I didn't get taken to some huge castle, this big skyscraper was a pretty good alternative. Sure there wasn't talking furniture around me here but I was pretty sure Jake's friends would pass as the crazy factor in my story as well. And of course last but not least, just like Belle had done, I too had grown to have feelings for my captor.

Some people might say that I've gotten a certain diagnosis called Stockholm Syndrome. I, however, thought differently about that fact.

At first, I had been scared as hell of Jake, I couldn't deny that. Jake had been a straight-up monster in my eyes and there wasn't any form of humanity visible in his eyes. However, as the weeks slowly passed by Jake slowly began to open up more and more to me.

I had found out about the reason for his anger and I had also figured out things I thought were important to me. Slowly Jake's real personality had begun to show and I couldn't help but think that it was beautiful. He wasn't a monster, most people just didn't know the real him well enough.

A few weeks had passed by since the two of us had our fun movie night. Ever since then butterflies had been flying all around my stomach whenever I was close to him.

Jake knew exactly what he had to do to make me blush, and feel nervous, and how to make me shy. Even though Jake himself probably had no idea he did all these things to me, that didn't matter to me. I liked being around him a lot and I didn't want to ruin that.

Last week I finally accepted the fact that I liked Jake. For a long time, I hadn't been able to understand why he made me feel so super nervous yet so freaking happy all the time but now I finally understood.

I had a massive crush on Jake and it was only getting bigger. There was no way for me to deny it anymore, I knew damn well what my feelings meant.

Of course, I wasn't trying to sugarcoat my and Jake's current relationship, however. I was pretty sure that Jake didn't feel the same way about me at all and that he was only allowing me to live with him because he felt sorry for what he had done.

There was no way someone like Jake could ever fall in love with someone like me. The beast might have fallen in love with Belle but that was because she was very special and beautiful. I wasn't anything like that. I was pretty ordinary and boring according to myself, something Jake would never grow to like.

Besides this wasn't a fairytale where every story ends with a happy ending. This was my life. Oh, how I wished to become some stupid character in a book only so that the author could write me the happy ending I desperately craved for.

Currently, I was trying to read a piece about how red crew corporations had violated the law by doing some illegal shit while Jake himself was taking a shower. Of course, everything the company was being accused of was true and thus Jake had asked me to look into it and try to find a way in which they could be proven to be innocent, even if they weren't.

According to Jake, I was an amazing lawyer while the ones who were hired for this case were doing a very shitty job. As Jake had said so himself, I would have pled him free if he hadn't decided to escape himself, even though Jake had been guilty of everything he had done it once and he could do it again.

A small smile made its way on my face as I thought about what Kaden had said this morning. He had come over to Jake's apartment and the two of them were talking about how shitty the lawyers they had hired were until suddenly both of them had looked at me with weird looks on their faces.

Jake had come over to me and explained to me what it was that they wanted of me, to encourage me Kaden had said.

"Mc use your lawyer brain, you're good at this shit."

Of course, I couldn't say no after that. After all, this was what I had studied to master. I was a freaking lawyer and I knew damn well how that shit worked. It was time to get back into the business.

Slowly I took a bite from my banana while carefully scanning every single letter printed on the paper in front of me. Bananas were like power food to me. The yellow fruit always helped me to fully focus on whatever I was doing and it didn't take long before I was completely caught up in the piece of paper in front of me.

Soon however suddenly small drops of water fell on my paper and the light inside the room became a lot darker. A confused look began to form on my face and I slowly began to take another bite of my banana. Maybe another water pipe had sprung or something?

That didn't explain the decreased lighting on my paper, however. This was all very weird.

"Did you already find something?" Jake suddenly whispered into my ear and immediately a shocked feeling began to form in my chest. Immediately I began to cough loudly while quickly taking the banana out of my mouth again.

Immediately a red blush began to form on my face and my eyes grew big. I did not just choke on a freaking banana in front of my crush. That looked so damn wrong. A soft laugh left Jake's mouth as he watched the scene in front of him and he shook his head.

"I guess you're not that experienced then." He teased me and I became even redder than before.

"Shut up, I didn't see you come in." I defended myself before turning around to look at him.

Immediately upon turning around my eyes grew big and my mouth fell open. Jake was standing in front of me with nothing more but a white towel hanging loosely around his hips. Small droplets of water were decorating his chest and his jet black hair was a hot mess. There was no way Jake wasn't teasing me on purpose.

"G-go and get dressed." I quickly spoke before turning around again while my face began to heat up even more. I felt my heart rate increase and my breathing became a bit irregular.

Jake was driving me crazy with his teasing and it wouldn't take long before I couldn't handle it anymore. He was surely becoming my death.

"Why? Am I making you nervous?" Jake suddenly softly spoke inside my ear again, a husky tone lacing his voice.

Immediately my breath hitched in my throat and my eyes grew even bigger. What the fuck had gotten into Jake?

However, a soft laugh soon left Jake's mouth again and he softly squeezed my shoulder.

"I like teasing you so much," He admitted before turning around and walking towards his bedroom. "I'll put some clothes on." He said while winking at me.

Once he had left the living room I raised both my hands and put them on my cheeks. My whole face was burning up and a shocked yet excited feeling was still present in my chest. What the hell he was doing to me?

~

An insecure look became visible on my face as soon as I looked at myself in the mirror. I was wearing a silk black tight dress and I wasn't completely sure if I looked good in them.

Softly I began to straighten my dress while looking at myself in the mirror with doubt visible in my eyes. Would this be good enough?

Currently, I was dressing myself up for a fancy party at the red eye dice, one of the casinos of red crew corporations.

Jessy and Lex had invited me and they would be picking me up in half an hour from now. Of course, that meant that I had more than enough time to change if I wanted to but with that, another problem also came lurking around the corner. If I wasn't going to wear this outfit then what the hell would I wear?

Jake wouldn't be joining the three of us at the party. He had some business meetings scheduled together with Kaden. The both of them would be meeting Thomas for their little plan to work.

That man had the answers they wanted and the two of them would do anything to get their hands on them. Tegan wouldn't be safe for much longer once Jake would find his hiding place.

A deep sigh left my mouth before I decided to just walk toward the living room. Immediately Jake's familiar face could be spotted on the couch while he was working on his laptop. With a sad face, I walked over to where he was sitting before taking place next to him.

"Why the sad face, baby?" Jake spoke as soon as he noticed the look on my face. Slowly I looked down while another deep sigh left my mouth.

"I look hideous," I spoke softly while an insecure tone was lacing my voice. Immediately Jake closed his laptop and placed a finger underneath my chin.

"You look stunning in anything. Now lift your head princess or your crown might slip off your head." He spoke in a sweet tone before sending a wink my way.

Immediately a soft red blush began to form on my face and my eyes grew big. Jake always knew exactly what to say to create a blush on my face. It was like Jake was doing it on purpose.

"I'm not sure if I should even go." I then spoke while locking eyes with him. I wasn't very curvy and while multiple people had told me that I had a pretty face, I thought so differently. I wasn't anything special, I was just an ordinary girl who had chased her dreams.

"And why in hell would you not go Mc?" Jake then asked, a confused tone lacing his voice.

According to Jake, Mc was the definition of perfect. The girl had a slim figure and a pretty face. However, that didn't matter much to Jake. Mc's personality was amazing and without a doubt, the girl was the kindest and most caring person Jake had ever met. The fact that Mc always failed to see how amazing she truly was saddened Jake a lot. She was very insecure and there wasn't any reason for it. Mc was perfect just the way she is.

"Because I look horrible," I said again while that insecure look became visible on my face. A deep sigh left Jake's mouth and he softly shook his head. A small smirk began to form on his face and he slowly crawled a bit closer to me.

"You know what, you're right. I don't think you should go tonight." Jake suddenly spoke. A big smirk was visible on his face and he looked at me as if I was some sort of prey.

An even sadder look quickly began to form on my face as soon as those words left Jake's mouth. I knew that I looked horrible. Jake had just tried to make me feel better. However, I knew damn well that I looked like shit. There was no point for Jake to keep lying if the truth was this obvious.

However soon I felt a hand softly press against my cheek and I was suddenly met with Jake's face. There was only a small gap between the two of us. Immediately my eyes grew big. What the hell was Jake doing?

A nervous feeling quickly began to overtake me completely and my heart rate picked up its pace quickly. Never before had the two of us been this close. An excited spark rushed up my spine as soon as Jake slowly began to lean in and my breath hitched in my throat.

A tense atmosphere was hanging between the both of us and an excited feeling began to form in my chest. I wanted nothing more than to be close to him. It had all I had been thinking about lately. Softly Jake brushed his lips over mine before giving me a small kiss on my lips.

"I'd rather have you all for myself tonight." He spoke before leaning in again and pressing his lips against mine.

As soon as Jake closed the gap between us completely I felt like I was in heaven. It was as if fireworks exploded in the distance and my life goal was fulfilled.

This moment was so magical to me that I wished to cherish it forever. I needed Jake to stay close forever. Slowly I began to wrap my arms around his neck before following his lead.

Both of us were slowly moving our lips against each other's and a deep red blush began to form on both of our faces. This moment was perfect and no one would be able to steal it away from us.

Slowly Jake licked my bottom lip and immediately I opened my mouth to let him in. Sparks of excitement rushed through my veins and I tightened my grip around his neck.

Immediately Jake pushed his tongue forcefully into my mouth and took the upper hand of our kiss. I gladly followed his lead and let him do whatever he wanted to do. Whatever Jake wanted, I was all in for it. I was all his.

Slowly Jake began to move his hands and placed them on the back of my head while he used the other to steady me. I was like putty in his hands. He could do anything he wanted with me and it gave me a very good feeling.

A loud yelp left my mouth as soon as Jake suddenly bit down on my bottom lip. However, it was soon followed by a spark of excitement and I felt Jake's smirk in our kiss.

"You like that baby?" He huskily whispered once he briefly disconnected his lips from mine, only to move on to my neck.

Immediately he began to suck on my neck and heavy puffs of air began to leave my mouth. Everything Jake did felt so fucking good and I didn't want the feeling to ever go away.

"Y-Yes very much." I managed to stammer out before I felt Jake slowly disconnect his lips from my neck, only to slowly kiss his way upwards.

"Mm-!" A loud moan left my mouth as soon as Jake began to suck on a certain spot behind my ear. Immediately a big smirk began to form on Jake's face and he began to suck on that certain spot more and more.

However unfortunately the sound of the elevator reaching our floor suddenly sounded through the room. Immediately both of us jumped apart. Deep red blushes were visible on both of our faces. Both of us had red, swollen lips and while a shy look was visible on my face, a big smirk was visible on Jake's.

"Yo Mc are you ready?" Jessy spoke once she walked into the room together with Lex. Immediately she halted her steps as soon as she noticed the intense stare the two of us in front of her were giving each other. Soon after she noticed our blushes and swollen lips. An amused smirk became visible on her face.

"Or maybe we should just leave you two alone."

However, as soon as those words left Jessy's mouth Jake softly shook his head before standing up from the couch.

"I have to get ready for the meeting anyway." He spoke before looking at flustered me on the couch. He sent a wink my way before turning around and walking toward his bedroom.

Meanwhile, there was still a big blush visible on my face and it felt like my whole face was on fire. A lot of time to think about what had happened wasn't something I had however because before I knew it Lex and Jessy dragged me from the couch while taking me to the elevator.

Both girls had huge grins on their faces and looked creepy as hell according to me.

As soon as the three of us were standing in the elevator both girls turned toward me. An uneasy feeling began to form in my chest as I looked at my friends with a weird look on my face.

"What?" I decided to say. The two other girls briefly exchanged a look before focusing on me once more.

"We want details, now!"