#honestly I’m just tired I’ll finish it tomorrow

[thesweetestofdreams]

hot chocolate

pairings: poly!marauders x reader (852 words)

warnings: should be none, just a little stress cry/ burnout

a/n: Do I like this? I have no idea. The boys help to comfort you on a late night that has you stressed.

Reaching out to his left, James expects to find your warmth. Instead all he feels are empty sheets. The fuzziness of sleep threatens to pull him back down, but your absence keeps him up. 

He pads through your small apartment doing his best not to wake your boyfriends still sleeping behind him. The small spike of panic he felt at not finding you eases as he finally does. 

You've got your back to him, typing away at your computer at the kitchen table. 

"And I'm the one not allowed to have coffee after six," he says softly once he's closer. You hardly glance at him, still typing. "Love," he says, a hand gently coming to cover yours. "Do you know how late it is?" 

Your heart melts as you finally look at him. He's rubbing sleep from his eyes, knocking his glasses off kilter. He looks warm and soft around the edges. It's enticing but your work's not going to do itself. "I'll come to bed in just a minute, Jamie. I should really finish this." 

He points at the time on your computer, 3:48 blares at you and you realize how much your eyes sting from staring at the screen. "Come on," he says, his grip now a soft tug at your wrist. 

"Just let me finish this paragraph." You're trying to bargain, having the feeling you'll probably lose. 

"It can wait, love." He's looking at you with soft eyes and you can feel the warmth radiating off of him. You hear shuffling behind you. Now you're really in for it.

Remus comes into view, his oversized shirt- probably one of James’- askew on his shoulders, followed by a scowling Sirius. “How dare you make us go on a man-hunt at three in the morning.” Sirius crosses his arms trying to look angry, but he still comes up to rest his chin on your shoulder. His nose tickles your cheek, “Let’s go to bed my love.”

Remus walks further into the kitchen of your tiny apartment. You remember the day you moved in, you ate ramen over a cardboard box as a kitchen table. Now as he stands across the table from you Remus reaches over to slowly close your laptop. 

You stop him halfway, and he gives you a knowing look. “I’m really not tired, honestly I won't be able to sleep until I finish this,” you say quickly returning to typing. 

Remus sighs, looking to James for help, but it’s Sirius who comes to his aid. “Well then I guess we’re all staying up,” Sirius says, his chin digging into your shoulder and sleep muddling his words, “but when I wake up with dark circles that’s on you.”

“No go to bed, I won’t be long.” You try to focus on your work, but Sirius worms his arms under yours, wrapping around you. “Siri, please.” Your head is starting to hurt from forcing your eyes to stay open, and the warmth coming off of him only makes the fight harder. 

“What are you doing, Remus?” you ask, hearing the kitchen cabinets open and close. 

“I’m making hot chocolate.” He grabs your favorite mug from the cabinet followed by three more. 

“You don’t have to do that Rem.” Your eyes are still stinging.

“I already opened the packet.” He says it with a finality that tells you, you’ve hardly any choice in the matter.

“I’ll get the marshmallows,” James adds, sounding far too excited for this time of night. 

Before you can stop it your eyes fill with tears, blurring your computer screen. You hide your face in your hands. “Are you okay, love?” Sirius asks, suddenly sounding much more awake. You can’t stop it as much as you want to, your tears flow leaving your boyfriends flustering to help you. 

“Dove.” Remus kneels beside you. “Let’s take a break, yeah? It can wait until tomorrow.” 

You hear the soft click of your computer shutting as you nod. James holds your hand across the table. “You’re all too nice to me,” you say, it comes out half laugh half sob. 

“All that work is scrambling your brain,” Sirius says, squeezing your shoulders.

You let Remus pull you to the couch where he brushes stray tears from your cheeks. You melt into his side. He plants soft kisses into your hair. 

James and Sirius come with cups of hot chocolate almost overflowing with marshmallows. The cups are soon abandoned as the rich chocolate threatens to drag you all to sleep right on the spot. 

When you eventually make it to bed through fits of yawns and tired shuffling, you realize you’re finally exactly where you want to be. Sirius falls asleep practically on top of James.

Remus pulls the blanket to your chin. “Too nice,” he laughs quietly to himself. You swat at his arm. As you fall asleep, he listens to the rise and fall of your breath. You deserve all the niceness of the world, and he would make hot chocolate in the middle of every night if it meant you felt even a bit of it.

[pottersmiracle]

Studying

Harry Potter x Fem! Reader

warnings: fluff-harry crushing on reader-use of y/n-added in that every student has their own dorm-first kiss 🙈

summary: harry never seems to focus when he studies, until now.

a/n: kinda long but swet <3

Masterlist

Harry was sitting in the library as he studied for their upcoming potion's quiz for Professor Snape's class. Harry was growing bored by the minute, every time Harry tried to doze off Hermione would notice and snap her fingers in his face or hit him with her wand. Which hurt quite a bit, and he definitely didn't want that again. But, he also just felt like he couldn't focus. He kept drowning out Ron and Hermione's constant bickering.

"Hermione can he please just take one break?" Ron pleaded noticing how tired he was. “Just watching him doze off is making me tired.”

“No Ronald! Do you really want him to fail another potions quiz and have Snape pressuring him even more? If you think he’s tired now i’d like to see him after that.” Hermione mumbled the last bit.

“She’s right Ron. I just.. need to find something to focus on so i can stay awake.” Harry said making Ron roll his eyes, “she’s always right.” Hermione hit him with her book making him groan and apologize.

Harry ignored them again, letting his eyes wander around the library. Then he saw her, y/n, the girl he’s been crushing on since their first year. They were best friends but he wanted to be more, so much more.

She noticed him almost immediately and smiled at him, he hoped she didnt notice the slight red hue on his cheeks as he smiled back at her. She said something to her friends and started walking over to him, making him instantly sit up straight.

“Hey Harry.” She said walking up with a smile. “Hey, uh, how are you?” He asked swallowing his nerves. “Better now that i’m talking to you.” She said with a smile. Now his blushing had to be noticeable after that.

He laughed and Hermione cut in, “thank goodness you’re here. You’re great at potions aren’t you? I’ve heard you in class you’re brilliant.” Y/n was taken aback at Hermione calling her a genius, Hermione was known as one of the smartest wizards of her age by most of the teachers after all.

“I’m certainly not a genius but i am fairly good at potions yes.” She answered. “Great. Could you try getting Harry to focus? Trying to get him to actually learn something is incredibly difficult.” She complained as Harry looked honestly offended.

“I can surely try.” She said laughing at Hermione’s comment. Hermione scooted over so y/n could sit across from Harry. Harry was certainly focused now and they hadn’t even started studying yet. This should be fun.

——

It had been almost an hour since y/n had sat down and started studying with Harry and Harry had already learned more from her then he had from Snape in the past 4 years. Hermione and Ron had certainly noticed that Harry was listening the whole time, and getting questions y/n asked him right.

“Students, it is now time to go back to your dormitories, the library is closed.” Professor McGonagall announced walking into the library. Y/n looked at Harry, “wanna continue this in my dorm? We only have one other chapter to go in this lesson if you’d like to finish it up.”

Harry wasn’t stupid, he wasn’t gonna say no to this. Not only was he actually learning something but he was just getting closer and closer to the girl he was in love with. “Yeah absolutely.” Harry responded. Y/n gathered the books as Harry looked at Hermione and Ron, Hermione was rolling her eyes and shaking her head with a smile, Rom subtly elbowed him and smirked at him.

“I’ll see you both tomorrow morning at breakfast yeah?” Harry said. “Yeah we’ll see you both tomorrow. Goodnight y/n!” Hermione said, waving to y/n who was putting away the books they didn’t need. “Night you two!” She responded waving back before handing Neville a book he had been waiting to read after they were finished.

——

They were in her dorm on her bed sitting across from each other. They had finished the book and was now just talking. About class, quidditch, family, anything they could think of. Harry was loving every second of it, he didn’t know that y/n was too.

As she closed the textbook to put it away, a charged tension lingered in the room. Their eyes met, and he couldn't help but stutter, "You know, this studying thing was... surprisingly enjoyable." She smirked, replying with a teasing tone, "Yeah, who knew potions could be so thrilling?" In the hushed atmosphere, their lips finally met, setting off a bomb of emotions that had been building with every exchanged glance and stolen touch during their study sessions.

After their lips parted, a gentle silence enveloped them. He chuckled nervously, breaking the quiet, "Well, that wasn't exactly studying was it." She blushed, "No, but I'd say it was more interesting." They shared a lighthearted laugh, the awkwardness fading into a newfound comfort.

He gently grabbed her hand, holding it in his as she rested her head on his shoulder, both smiling and laughing with each other.

It was perfect.

[sim0nril3y]

Deployment

Pairing: Simon 'Ghost' Riley x Civilian!Reader Scenario: The time has come. It's his first deployment since you've become a couple. The goodbyes are difficult. Warnings: No mask Simon (It's my personal headcanon in his regular life he probably wouldn't wear it), lots of angst, talking of leaving, talking of dying, canon-typical swearing.

One more night. One more night in his arms. What if he didn’t come back? What if he got hurt? What if he went missing? Honestly, you weren’t sure that you could cope with the never knowing what happened. Please, please, let there be some type of miracle that might happen so that Simon wouldn’t have to go. Things had been going so well, it simply wasn’t fair. If only he had any other job in the world. If only he was still a butcher, or something normal like that. Why now?

“Sleep.” Even with his eyes firmly closed Simon commanded you to rest. “You have work tomorrow.” Simon sounded tired, you supposed it was 2am, he had a right to be tired. “I don’t care.” You answered with a sad and quiet tone, eyes fixed on his sleeping frame in the pitch blackness that filled the room. “The morning is going to come whether you sleep or not.”

There was silence for a moment and Simon wondered if you had actually listened and then he heard it. Sniff. Then quiet. Sniff, sniff. Then even more silence before. Hck. Sniff. Sniff. His eyes pried open, adjusting momentarily before finding your face crumbling with emotion, lips firmly frowned and trembling, eyes filling fast with tears that were trickling down your face and soaking the pillow beneath you.

“Babe.” He whispered, reaching out to gently touch your shoulder, squeezing in a comforting way. “Don’t… Don’t bloody cry.” Simon whispered, his own voice a little thicker than usual. “Oi, c’mere.” Then pulling you across the sheets into his arms, holding you to firmly in his strong arms. “You dozy bloody moo…” He whispered, soothingly rubbing your back in small circles as you hiccupped and sobbed into his throat. “I know, I know.”

Honestly, he’d never had to deal with this before. Of course, he’d been around other colleagues and watched how hard it’s been for them to be away from their loved once. For him, it had been a very long time since he’d been in this place before and it was never like he had someone waiting for him to come home. It added an entirely different layer of fear, there was that fear of exposing you to danger but there was always a fear of leaving you. It felt like it hadn’t been that long since he’d learned to love you, allowed himself to let someone new into his life and now there was the possibility it could be all ripped away in an instant. Simon wanted more time, but that wasn’t something he was going to be afforded.

Still, even as your tears flowed Simon just held you, strong and tight in his arms, shushing you and caressing you so gently until your body just succumbed to exhaustion. It brought him pain to think of you being apart from him in mere hours now, sobbing yourself to sleep without his strong arms and his kind words. Fuck, it had never been this hard before.

The following morning Simon was up bright and early to finish his checklist. It seemed that you were restless too and that early awakening lead to you following him around like a lost puppy, eyes watching the clock as if counting down the seconds. “Babe, I’m just going to put some fuel in the car. I’ll be back. I promise.” He’d assured when your eyes had filled with wayward tears as he nabbed his keys. “Sweetheart, can I take a piss in peace, please?” He’d begged as you chased him into the bathroom for the second time that morning.  “I’m just going to get a loaf of bread from the other freezer, stay here.” He'd commanded as he unlocked the back door. “Babe, if you wanted to join me in the shower all you had to do was ask…” Simon had purred before you two fell into the steamy shower.

Later that morning you were munching down some toast, eyes fixed firmly on Simon as he made himself a strong tea. It was difficult thinking that tomorrow morning you would be going through this routine on your own. The thought alone was enough for a lump to stick awkwardly in your throat. “Right…” Simon began then, causing you to push down any of those awful feelings and focus. “I’ve left a list of numbers over there…” Turning he held his mug in hand and nodded in the direction of a lonely notepad, it was full of names and phone numbers and occupations. “Reckon they’ll be able to fix any problems you might run into, alright? I’m not gonna be able to be in contact all the time, so I need to know that if there is a problem here, or with you, or with the car that it’ll be covered.”

“Right.” You agreed gently, taking another solemn bite of toast. “Against my better judgement…” Simon continued, stepping across to sit opposite you at the kitchen table. “I’ve added you to my car insurance, use it when you need it, please don’t write it off.” There was almost teasing to his tone. “My driving isn’t that bad…” You grumbled and this only earned a smirk as he took another sip of his tea. “I’ve got all the utilities set up. The mortgage is on direct debit. I’m even paying that kid down the road to come a mow the garden whilst I’m gone, he’s happy to be making a little extra money and it’s one less thing for you to worry about, which means one less thing for me to worry about.” Simon explained.

A frown found your lips. “I’m capable of looking after myself and the house, you know…” Simon lets out a soft sigh then and replies. “I know, babe. I…” He seems to pause, as if taking a moment to find the right words. “I like to know that I’ve covered every possibility at home so I won’t have to worry when I’m out there…” Simon said it like out there was a very distant place, very cold, isolated and very far from you. “Okay?” Silently he was asking you to just trust him and give him these final few hours to make sure everything was set up in a way that gave him comfort, the comfort of knowing that you were safe at home. “Okay.”

The way that you watched the clock on the wall was like you were begging it for more time, making some kind of trade so that Simon wouldn’t need to go. Regardless of what you promised the time still came. There he stood loading his bags into the waiting cab, you stood a couple paces back wanting to give some space. “Let me drive you-” You attempted to persuade. “It’ll be too hard.” Simon answered with finality.

He closed the boot with a shunt and then turned to be looking at you. “It’ll be better to leave you here at home and then call you once I arrive on base. Okay?” It sounded like he was trying to convince himself too. “C’mon now…” He muttered, watching as finally the emotion broke over your face, all that strength crumbled and the tears began to trickle once again. “Oi…” Simon muttered, wrapping you into his warm strong arms. Those same arms you wouldn’t feel again for month. Your last embrace. “It’ll be easier like this. I promise. Easier for you. Easier for me.” Simon whispered, squeezing you so tight in his bulging arms. “I love you.”

It was something so rare and so emotional that you actually gasped, glancing up at him through your watery eyes. “Love you too.” Your words came out less controlled, spoken through a sob. “Love you.” You added, as if to make up for the initial emotional sentiment like Simon might have not been able to hear you over the lump in your throat. “Call me-” “I will.” There was a solid promise.

Then one final kiss. It was searing, his lips pressed against your own so hard that you thought he might bruise you. You never wanted this kiss to end. You didn’t want him to climb into the cab. You didn’t want his promises or his declarations of love and devotion. No, you just wanted him…

A second later Simon detangled you from his arms and climbed into the cab. He knew that one of you had to be strong in this moment and that you were never going to be the one to walk away, so he needed to. Even if it hurt more than being fucking shot Simon needed to step away. He had duty. He had honour. Someday maybe you’d understand, or maybe you never would, but he hoped that at least you’d find some type of normality without him around…

Once he’d arrived on base Simon got back into a routine seamlessly, everyone thought of him as the emotionless and stoic ‘Ghost’. That was all that he wanted to be to these people. The less they knew about his life the better, that way he could shield you from anyone using you against him. He’d never forgive himself… however, there was one person that needed to know. Officially, he needed to speak to Price, if the worst should happen you’d need to know.

It was late. Far too late to be doing all this, but Simon knew that his Captain would still be up. Rapping his knuckles hard against his door a voice called out and in he stepped. John sat at his desk, pouring over paperwork on his desk and gifting Simon a very tired smile as he entered. “Captain.” He kept his voice firm and professional as he entered. “Lieutenant, what do you need?”

For a moment Simon stood quietly, mouth pursed as if he racked his brains for the right words. “My next of kin…” “It’s blank – like we discussed.” About to dismiss him when Simon spoke again. “I need it changed.” John seemed shocked by these words, the argument that they had over not having one and now to have him so quickly change his mind. “What do you need from me?”

John blinked, once then twice before collecting a form from his desk. “Just jot their details down…” Passing over a pen as he watched Simon began to diligently fill in the boxes. His hand-writing was just as he expected, messy and haphazard, but his mind only went to Simon’s homelife… John wondered, did he have someone special? Who was it? What were they like? How long had they known each other? What was the relationship? All these questions that John wanted to ask, but knowing Simon wouldn’t get a single answer. “If I die, tell her.” Yanked back to reality with one simple sentence. “Not some letter. No some top brass. You tell her, Captain.” Sliding the piece of paper back in his direction. “Don’t tell her how - she won’t cope with that.” John nodded. “For fuck sake, don’t show her a body if there is one. She’d never sleep again.”

“Need you to make sure she gets access to my pension. I want every fucking penny of it going to her.” Simon placed down the pen hard on the table. “My house. My car. The shirt off my dead fucking back. I want it all going to her. Okay?” There was desperation in his tone. This was a conversation they were meant to be having 6 weeks ago, with legal and suits around to sign it all off. Not the night before he was going to be put on a plane into a warzone. “Simon-” “John, please…” He didn’t need to see the rest of his face to know that Simon was in anguish, his eyes were enough. “I’ll see that it happens.”

Masterlist | Ask | 10-04-2024

[thewritetofreespeech]

Can I please request Astarion with a flirty yet oblivious plus size Tav? In the way that they do flirt because it's fun and light like their companions/friends with benefits thing, but they think that their feelings are unrequited (because of some slight insecurity about their size) until Astarion is like I actually like you and Tav is like '???' (Idk if that makes sense lol) Thank you!

-------------------------------🩸-------------------------------

“So, Astarion, what is your actual type?”

“My ‘type’,” Astarion repeated at Shadowheart’s question as they traveled, “is such a broad prevue. I can’t think to narrow it down to just a single collection of words.”

“That’s a unique way to say you’re a trollop.”

Tav snickered at Shadowhearts retort, getting a stern glare from Astarion. “What? It was funny?”

“Pft. And here I was going to say you, my dear, but if you’re going to be so incredibly cruel.”

“Aw shucks. Always a bridesmaid I suppose.”

During their journey together, Tav had grown very fond of Astarion. He was a little shit, but deep down he was very funny and undeniably charming (although not for the ways he tried to be). The two of you had picked up a friendly banter over your time together, sometimes even flirty, but only that. And Tav was fine with that. Well aware that a handsome rake like Astarion could have his pick of the litter, and they were just happy to be considered a friend.

Later that night, while everyone was finishing their day and slinking off to bed, Astarion came over to Tav by the fire to sit with them. “You know I really meant it earlier by the way.”

“Meant what?” Tav asked. Lost, by this point, on what he was talking about.

“That you’re my….‘type’.” He seemed loathed to use the word. Even scrunched his nose. Tav just laughed.

“Yeah. Right. I’m sure.”

“No, really, I mean it.” He insisted.

“Come on Astarion, the only way you’d be interested in me is because I’m a a keg instead of a flagon.” Tav gestured to themselves and their full frame. “I have ample blood to spare.”

Astarion frowned. “Yes, your blood is certainly a bonus, but that isn’t why I care for you.” He huffed and crossed his arms dramatically. “Honestly, why does everyone think I’m not being serious when I am?” Astarion asked with a bit of flabbergast. “Is it something about my expression?”

Tav looked more than a bit flabbergasted at his remark. They didn’t really think they liked them….that way. Friends sure. Allies, of course. But romantically? “You…really have feelings for me?”

“Ugh! What is it with you new generation and wanting to put a name to everything?” Astarion bemoaned. “Feelings. Type. Can’t we just enjoy this for whatever…this is? All I know is that out of all the people in this whole wicked world I would want to be stuck with, it’s you.”

“Gee, that’s the most romantic thing anyone has ever said to me.” Tav teased.

Astarion frowned again, but then leaned in close to Tav so all they could see was his piercing red eyes. “I could wax poems for you, if you’d prefer. How your eyes are the stars. How your curves are roads I would never get tired of roaming. How your ample bosom feels like a place to call home. All true, but you’re so much more to me than that.” He moved back to sit in his original spot. Wrapping his arms around his knees at his chest as he looked into the fire. “You’re the first person I’ve trusted in…well ever. You mean more to me than just your body. Though, again, that is certainly a bonus. I had hoped….you feel the same about me.”

Tav blushed, but then quickly gathered their voice and told him, “yes! Of course.”

Astarion seemed relieved. Then leaned over to give Tav a simple, sweet peck on the cheek. “Good. Now, get some sleep. We’ll probably have a completely eventful day tomorrow as well. You’ll need your beauty sleep. Not that you need it, of course. I’ll keep watch until the morning.”

Tav smiled, blushed again, and then went to their bed roll. Tentative in accepting Astarion’s confession & feelings, but hopeful it was all true. Perhaps, for once, they could really be the bride instead of the bridesmaid.

[leahrintarou]

✩₊˚.⋆☾ BALANCED - osamu miya

CW: usage of the petname 'baby' and 'pretty', fluff, maybe a bit of 'angst' if you wanna call it that lol, fem reader (she/her) Word Count: 1.4k

“when will you come by, samu?”

“soon, baby. within another hour, i'll be on my way, okay?” his tone was breathy, and y/n inferred he’d stepped away from a busy situation to answer her call. with the weekend approaching, his shop was bound to be bustling. “what’s wrong?” he asked. after hearing only silence from her end, his breathing slowed.

y/n hesitated before responding, “nothing, but okay, i’ll see you later.”

he sighed at her evasion but chose to let it be.

“baby, i'll be home before you know it. you should take a nap to pass the time. you sound tired anyway.”

y/n nodded despite his inability to see her, and when his name was called faintly in the background, she muttered a quick goodbye before ending the call.

with the line dropped, y/n turned off her phone and tossed it to the other side of the sofa. she was genuinely thrilled for her boyfriend’s burgeoning business, but his infrequent visits were beginning to weigh heavily on her.

she hadn’t realized how much time they used to spend together until it started dwindling. whether it was her busy schedule maintaining her grades or osamu's increasingly tight schedule, their communications, though frequent, were beginning to fail in filling the void. nothing could replace the comfort of physical presence, especially when it came to osamu.

she stood up and decided to heed his advice to take a nap. after all, what else was there to do? her friends were occupied with work or their own classes, she’d finished her studying for the day, and she had no errands left. all she truly craved was relaxation, but for that to be possible, she needed the presence of the person she loved beside her.

her phone vibrated in her hand, and she checked the message from her boyfriend.

samu 🩶 -> ‘i know this is terrible timing, pretty, but i might be getting home a bit later than planned. i need to pick up a few supplies for tomorrow. we’re running low.’

she couldn’t stop the tears from welling in her eyes, blurring her vision. she wasn’t sure if her reply made sense, but she was beyond caring.

y/n -> ‘okay. be safe.’

she set her phone down on the nightstand and rested her head on her pillow. it had been a long, arduous week, and all she needed was him.

---

osamu hurriedly hung his hoodie by the door as he called out for y/n. her silence worried him. he had informed her of a late return, but the exact time had been unclear. he intended to be home three hours ago, but unforeseen circumstances had delayed him. he took steps up the stairs cautiously and gently pushed open the door.

there, y/n lay on their bed, her back turned to him. he called her name, and she stirred in her sleep, prompting him to sit on the edge of the bed. it was dim in the room, but he noticed the dampness of her pillow and her swollen eyes. his heart ached as he placed his palm against her cheek.

her eyes fluttered open, and they widened upon seeing his familiar face. she sat up as he settled on the bed, and she enveloped him in a tight hug.

“were you crying, baby?” he asked, wanting to pull away to see her face, but her embrace was firm, and honestly, he never wanted to leave it.

she mumbled a soft “no,” but the tremor in her voice revealed the truth.

“yeah, you were. look at your eyes…” he finally managed to view her features when she reluctantly released him. “i’m so sorry for being away for so long. why didn’t you tell me you were going through a rough patch?”

“you were busy with the shop and so happy that things were picking up. i’m happy for you too. so much,” she said, using the sleeves of her hoodie to wipe her tear-streaked cheeks.

“there’s a ‘but’ in there, isn’t there?” he asked, reaching for both of her wrists to gently pull them from her face.

“but,” she exhaled, meeting his gaze before looking down at her lap, “i don’t just want you to be here, i need you to be here. nothing is enjoyable without you anymore.” she frowned. osamu smiled and placed a tender kiss on the top of her head, then on her lips.

“i understand, baby. but listen to me.” his hand cupped her cheek, and she leaned into his warmth. “i will drop everything in a heartbeat if it’s you who needs me, okay?” he stated. she nodded and drew herself closer, inhaling the faint scent of his cologne. even the slightest trace of it brought her a sense of tranquility and comfort.

osamu wrapped his arms around y/n, holding her close. the weight of her words and the tears she had shed made him realize just how deeply his absence had impacted her.

“i’ve been so focused on making things work at the shop that i didn’t see how much you were struggling,” he admitted softly. “i promise i’ll make it up to you. we’ll find a way to balance this better.”

y/n nestled her head against his shoulder, her breathing slowly evening out. “i know you’re working hard, and i appreciate it. i just want to feel like i’m a part of your life, not just a contact on your phone.”

“of course you are,” osamu reassured her. “you’re my whole world. we’ll figure it out together, okay?”

he gently rocked her back and forth, his touch soothing her. after a few minutes, he pulled back slightly to look into her eyes. “how about we make some plans for the weekend? no work, no distractions, no studying.”

y/n’s eyes brightened at the idea, her sadness dissolving in the warmth of his gaze. “that sounds amazing, but time won’t stop just because we want to spend time together."

osamu smiled, his heart swelling with relief. he leaned in to kiss her forehead, then her lips again, as if to vow never to let her feel this way again. “you’re right, time won’t stop, but we can make every moment we have together count. let’s focus on the time we do get and make it special. we’ll find our balance, and until then, i promise to make the most of every second i can spend with you.”

as they settled back into their embrace, y/n felt a renewed sense of comfort. the weeks ahead might still be busy, but knowing osamu was committed to making time for her eased her worries.

with osamu by her side, y/n drifted off to sleep, feeling more at peace than she had in days.

“i’ll make sure we always have these moments. you mean everything to me, baby.”

this was written for a certain someone lmaooo

ty for reading! leave a like to show support :D

tag: @lifesucksweswallow & @powpowboom

[springgirlshowers]

could you do joost x gn reader, but it’s literally just them cuddling in bed during a thunderstorm??

Monsoon Season

Pairing: Joost x GN!Reader (no pronouns used)

CW: none!

WC: 726

AN: such a cutey cute lil concept!! fun fact: i wrote this as it was storming hard as hell outside lmao

Just as you were about to send Joost a text, asking how far away he was, you heard the front door open behind.

As you sat up from your spot on the couch, you were met with Joost standing with grocery bags in his hands, absolutely drenched from the rain.

It had started storming about ten minutes ago and Joost must’ve got caught in the middle of the rain on the way back from a recording session.

“I got the stuff you said we needed for dinner.” Joost gave you an amused smile as he held up the bag.

You immediately got up and went over to him, as much as you tried not to, you giggled at a bit at his soaked state.

“Thank you.” You smiled, giving him a small kiss, “Now, I’ll put these away, you go change.” You said as you took the bags from his hands, he just nodded and kicked off his shoes, walking down the hallway into your shared bedroom to change into drier clothes.

You put the groceries into the fridge and kitchen cabinets while waiting for Joost to get finished changing.

You were already done putting everything away by the time he returned, wearing a pair of sweatpants and a green hoodie, camouflage patterns on the hood. His hair had dried a bit more, now messier.

Joost walked up behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist, resting his chin on your shoulder.

“Better?” You asked, putting your hands on top of his.

“Mhm, much.” He let out a happy breath. It felt so peaceful in the apartment, the hard rain from outside with the warm light from the lamp in the living room made the perfect cozy atmosphere.

Until a flash of lightning and loud rumble of thunder struck outside, scaring and making both of you jump of you a tiny bit.

“The weather app said it’s gonna be like this for the next few days.” You sighed, turning around in his grasp.

“I guess we’ll be stuck inside for the next few days then.” He moved his hands from your waist to the sides of your face, you nearly shuddered when felt how cold his palms were.

“You’re really cold. You’re sure you feel better?”

“I could use some warming up.” He shrugged, a knowing smirk on his face. You rolled your eyes playfully, letting him take your hands and drag you into the bedroom.

You got into bed first, shuffling under the sheets while Joost followed, laying on top of you.

“I’m so tired. Today was so exhausting.” He mumbled against your chest. Joost enjoyed making music, but this feeling wasn’t uncommon for him after being at the studio for hours on end.

“How’s the album going?” You hummed, pulling the blankets up over the both of you.

“Its frustrating. Nothing is turning out the way I want it to.” He let out an annoyed sigh at the thought of it. “I’m honestly just thinking about scrapping most of the songs because of it.”

“Oh come on, you’ll get them how you want them eventually.” You frowned. “You always do.” You added, hoping it would bring some relief.

“You really think so?”

“I know so.” You ran your hands through his hair, he let out a pleased breath and wrapped his arms a little bit tighter around you in response.

Even though you didn’t have a good look at his face, you could feel his smile against your skin.

The sound of the rain hitting the window and soft thunder in the distance with the warmth of your body against his and you raking your hands through his hair made him feel the most relaxed he’s been in weeks.

It didn’t take long after for his eyelids to become droopy, eventually shutting his eyes in complete bliss.

“I was thinking dinner tomorrow could be pasta. But you might have to go back into the rain again to get the noodles.” You joked, there was no response from Joost.

“Joost?” You said softly, no response again.

Craning your neck a bit to get a better look at his face, you could see he was absolutely knocked out.

His eyes shut, lips slightly parted, face completely relaxed. You smiled to yourself, deciding maybe you could let him sleep for a little bit before you got up.

[gothamite-rambler]

Super Villain Lex Luthor unaware who Batman is and regrets it.

Context: Clark's warning to Bruce that Lex was after him (Batman) wasn't enough to stop Lex from kidnapping Bruce's son. Lex wants Batman to aid him in defeating Superman (something Batman refuses to do for numerous reasons) or he'll harm his son. Big mistake, Lex.

Lex (broadcasting on multiple screens around Gotham and in his hiding place): Batman, show yourself and work with me, or this brat will die!

Lex pulled back the curtain to reveal Damian Wayne, dressed in his Robin suit, tied up and dangling over a vat of Joker toxin. His expression was one of annoyance rather than fear, looking utterly unimpressed.

Robin (indifferent): Hey.

Batman (enraged): Is that… my fucking son?!

Oracle (trying to remain calm): Batman, relax.

Lex (mocking): What do you think will happen when he falls into the Joker vat? Not great things, I imagine. God, I’m so evil!

Batman (stammering): Joker… Joker… Joker… Toxin. Is that Joker toxin?

Batman let out a stoic laugh that escalated into a chilling cackle, implying he would not be nice when beating up Lex. Oracle, Nightwing, Red Robin, and Red Hood were unnerved by its unsettling quality.

Nightwing (referring to Lex): Yeah… he’s in danger.

Oracle (concerned): Cool, you’re enraged. I get it, but you have to remain calm.

Batman (voice rising): He’s got my youngest son over a vat of JOKER TOXIN! I cannot BE CALM!

Oracle removed her earpiece, overwhelmed by the loud rage from her usually stoic friend and boss.

Oracle: I’m not the one who kidnapped Robin! So don’t shout in my ear! God, I get it! You care about your kids, but you need to remain calm. Practice deep breathing, clench your jaw, punch a wall—whatever it takes, just stay tranquil!

Batman (breathing heavily): Tranquil? Okay… Okay… Okay… Okay… Okay… Okay!

Nightwing (in the comm): Hey, Batman, I get you're pissed off, but listen to Oracle. You've been through a lot this month, but don't let it drive you insane.

Red Hood: Nah, let him go off. This is… going to be entertaining.

Nightwing (scolding tone): Stop it, you're not helping.

Red Hood (shrugging): Wasn't intending to. I love this side of him. Let him know to not hold back.

Oracle: Red Hood, silence! Batman, be calm!

Batman (his voice low and disturbingly calm): He has my son over the one thing I fear most… hn… I am tranquil. I am tranquil. Did you find the room they’re in?

Oracle (concerned by Batman’s unsettling calm): Take a right, and you’ll see a black door. That’s where he is.

Batman bolted down the hall, repeating his calming mantra.

Batman: I am tranquil. I am calm. Not thinking about the numerous ways I can break Lex's bones. I am tranquil… tranquil… tranquil.

Oracle (hearing him): Oh yeah, that’s a healthy coping technique.

Lex (in the secret room, waiting for Batman's next move and unaware of how enraged the hero was): Your choice, Batman! I’ll give you five minutes. Yeah… I’m fair like that. Honestly, him with the League of Villains would be a great addition.

Robin hadn't been listening to the man's ramblings as he spun slowly counterclockwise, unfazed and focused on his homework.

Robin (uninterested): Shoot, I forgot to finish my essay for class. Eh, I’ll do the rest tomorrow. Mm… I’m getting tired.

He yawned.

Lex (insulted): Could you be any more intimidated, you stupid brat?!

Robin (yawning again): Nuh-uh.

Lex: I have you hung over a vat of Joker—

Robin (interrupting): Don’t care.

Lex: You could be driven insane—

Robin (singing): Nope!

Robin snickered, finding Lex utterly unimposing. It baffled him that the Kents had found him intimidating.

Lex (right eyebrow twitching, frustrated): God, this is why I hate children.

Robin (snide): I get you have some stronghold over Metropolis or whatever, but you're not special. Kryptonite—it's not hard to acquire.

Lex (holding his hand up, threatening to strike the child): Shut your damn mouth!

Robin (teasingly): Nuh-uh. Batman is not going to be kind to you. I hope you have good insurance.

Lex (scoffing): He’s all talk.

Robin chuckled sarcastically, amused by Lex’s underestimation of his father. Batman, in question, listened to the entire exchange as he made his way to the room, his anger like a ticking time bomb.

Oracle monitored the feed, getting closer to disabling the camera. Batman's comms had gone silent for the last two minutes, raising concern for her and the other heroes in the building.

Oracle (in comms): Batman, you haven’t talked in a concerning amount of time, but when you get in the room, don’t lose it—why did his comm disconnect… Batman? Nightwing, can you talk to him?

Nightwing (accepting the impending chaos): I can’t. I think he removed it.

Oracle (her eyes widening): Oh… oh no.

Batman’s comm lay shattered on the ground as he approached the black door. Two and a half minutes remained as the hero kicked in the door. Lex stood in the room, holding a small remote control, ready to drop Robin into the Joker toxin. The viewers watching the livestream from their TVs, phones, and computers in Gotham couldn't see Batman himself, but they sat on the edge of their seats, awaiting his next move.

Robin: Hey, Batman.

Batman saw his son suspended over the vat, Lex grinning smugly and the countdown ticking down. Any semblance of calm dissipated, replaced by heavy, angry breaths.

Oracle (acting fast): Cool, cool, cool, working on cutting the feed.

Robin (mocking): Yeah… you fricked up.

Lex: Oh please, he won’t do—

Batman walked over to Lex and yanked him out of the camera view. All that was heard were Lex's screams and the sound of a fist making contact with flesh. The camera immediately cut away, leaving viewers with black and white bars waving across the screen as the fight began, leaving only Damian to witness the chaos for a few seconds before closing his eyes. Even he couldn't bear to witness this level of violence, though he couldn't deny it had been impressive.

Nightwing and Red Hood, trapped in a green room, were among the few who watched the active feed on a small TV.

Nightwing (concerned): Probably for the best she cut the feed.

Red Hood (proud of his father): All right, that means we sit back, relax, and watch Batman do what I’ve been wanting him to do for a long time.

Nightwing: Yeah, but with the Joker involved.

Red Hood (shrugging): This is a close second.

Nightwing nodded in agreement as they settled into the purple couch when suddenly a vent at the top of the room broke open, and Red Robin dropped in.

Red Robin (out of breath): Did I get—Damn it!

His shoulders had slumped in defeat, realizing his escape plan had led him right back to the green room.

Nightwing: Take a seat and watch the onslaught.

Red Robin threw his hands up in surrender and joined his brothers on the couch to witness their father's long-deserved vendetta against Lex Luthor.

Red Robin: You think he's also holding resentment for when Lex kicked him in the—

Red Hood and Nightwing (at the same time): I'd feel the same way.

Three minutes later, Oracle's phone rang. The number was unknown, but she answered it anyway.

Oracle: Yes?

Superman (concerned): Does he… does he need me there?

Oracle: No. No, I can see the footage, and he’s good. Lex is down and bleeding. Bruce is getting Damian out of the trap; we’re all good.

Superman: That’s my best buddy. I’m glad I told him ahead of time. Sadly, Damian got kidnapped, but everything is well there. Tell him thanks.

Oracle: Totally. Bye.

Oracle ended the call and tapped her finger on her desk, pondering one important question.

Oracle (confused anger): How did he even get my number?! One thing at a time, girl. Let me see if he kept his phone on him.

Oracle quickly dialed the number of Batman's spare cell phone (she didn’t leave home without it). He answered on the other end.

Batman (hugging Damian): Everything’s clear. I’ll get to Nightwing, Red Hood, and Red Robin in a moment.

Oracle (smiling at the father-son moment on the feed): I get it; you have to finish hugging your precious baby. Understandable. Don't worry, no one in Gotham witnessed you beating the crap out of Lex.

Batman ended the call abruptly, as was his style, then patted Damian on the back as the happy boy hugged his father. Oracle chuckled to herself, finally relaxing after what had turned out to be a (mostly) successful mission.

The End... for now.

Lead up to this -> Lex and Clark fight over being Bruce's friend

Beginning -> Lex Luthor being oblivious that Bruce Wayne hates him

[cheeeeseburger]

I'd rather have empty sheets than empty promises

Carlos Sainz x Reader

Masterlist

A/N: I suck at titles so bad that it's not even funny anymore lmao. Anyway, English is not my first language, apologies for the mistakes, enjoy!

“I don’t want to sleep on the couch.” Carlos entered the bedroom you two shared with a blanket in his arms. Honestly, he looked adorable, but you were still pissed.

“That’s fine. I’ll go instead.” You stood up from the bed and tried to grab the blanket from him but he gripped your arm instead. “Tesoro, I want to sleep with you. We’ll talk about it in the morning, okay?” You wanted so badly to say yes, to sleep in his arms like nothing happened, but you knew you needed some space.

“It’s okay. We’ll talk about it tomorrow. I just need some space right now, okay?” Carlos did not look like it was okay, but he let your arm free. He was not used to you being so cold, so distant. At that moment, you were not his loving girlfriend, but a ghost of her.

You made you way to the couch, which was thankfully pretty comfy. Still, you did not feel as good, as loved and as safe as you felt when you slept in his arms. He must have felt the same, because you could hear him tossing and turning in the bedroom.

After a few minutes, against your wish, you started to cry. The fight you two had really, really sucked. It was about you not being able to attend many races this season because of school. To muffle the sound, you hid your face in the blanket. Carlos still heard you, and he made his way to you on the couch, devastated to hear you cry.

“Tesoro…” He sat next to you and you immediately crawled into his arms. He gently brushed your hair with his fingers and patted your arm. You were now full-on crying.

“I’m sorry, Carlos, I am so, so, sorry!” It was difficult to talk through the tears.

“It’s okay, it’s all okay.” He was doing his best to comfort you but really, he needed the comforting too, because seeing you cry broke his heart.

Sobbing, you replied: “No, it’s not okay! I know you wanted me to be there. It’s your home race! I’m an awful girlfriend!” You were crying so damn hard that it was hard to breathe.

He continued to play with your hair, trying to soothe you. “I know you wish you could be there, Tesoro. I understand.” It’s true that he wished you could attend more races. He liked having you cheering on him. He always performed best when you were there. However, he understood that you had your own obligations, and he respected that. How could he be mad that his girl was successful and ambitious?

“I just don’t want you to think I don’t care!” You said, crying your heart out. Ok, wow, this was a new record for you. Usually, you weren’t the type to cry a river. Your period must be coming soon.

Carlos softly wiped the tears away and kissed your cheeks where they were. “Tesoro, no, don’t say that. I know you care; I have never doubted you.” You looked at him with teary eyes. “I’m afraid that you’ll grow tired of me someday, or that you’ll resent me for being absent because of school.” Here we go again. The tears started pouring once more. You tried to hide your face in his shoulder, but he gently pulled your head away to look at you.

You were ashamed of the doubt and fear in your eyes, since his were filled with love. “Tesoro, I could never get tired of you! You are essential to me. It’s true that I wish we could always be together, but I’m so proud of you, and I know that finishing your master is important to you. And you’ll be done soon, right?” He delicately stroked your face. He really was the perfect boyfriend, so compassionate and understanding.

You slowly started breathing regularly again, sometimes with the interruption of a few hiccups. You had no tears left to cry anyway.

“Yeah, I only have a few months left. After, I can be with you at every race.” You managed to give him a small smile.

“That’s it, Tesoro. Smile for me again. It breaks my heart to see you cry. I can’t wait for you to travel the world with me.” He gave you a soft kiss.

You laughed at little. “Gosh, I don’t know what’s going on with me. I cried this morning because I saw an old man sitting alone at a coffee shop, and I cried again when they didn’t have oat milk for my latte.” He laughed too. “Amor, you pretend you’re not a big crier, but you always cry for little things. Remember when you cried after seeing the lobsters in the tank at the grocery store?”

You lightly poked him in the chest. “They were just so cute! I felt bad for them.”

“But not enough to not eat them?” You stuck your tongue at him. “I want to go to bed now, Carlos. I’m so damn tired from crying every single tear in my body.”

“With me this time, I hope?” You kissed him. “Of course. We should never sleep apart unless we’re forced to. I never sleep well when I don’t feel your weight on the bed.”

He smiled at your words, then picked you up bridal style. You could get used to this. “I’m practicing for our wedding night,” Carlos said, laughing. He gently laid you on the bed.

You pointed at your empty ring finger. “I fear you’re getting ahead of yourself, Mr. Sainz.” He laid next to you on the bed. “Don’t worry Tesoro, it’s coming.” You gasped and he laughed at your shocked expression.

“Carlos, you can’t say that to me before we go to sleep! I’ll be up all-night thinking about it.” You were very, very pleased at his confession. You gave him a big smile.

“Good, then that’ll prepare you for when I keep you up all night after the wedding.” He snuggled into you. You laughed and he gave you a goodnight kiss.

“Goodnight, Carlos. I love you.”

“I love you too, Tesoro. Dream of me, will you?”

。。+゜゜。。+゜゜。。+゜゜。。+゜゜。。+゜゜。。+゜゜。。+゜

Less than a year later, you were walking down the stage of your university, one hand resting on your very rounded belly, showing off the diamond on your finger, and the other holding you master’s degree. You could hear your fiancé congratulating you somewhere in the public.

Who would’ve thought you were going to be a pregnant graduate? Turns out that there was a reason behind your endless tears that other night, a few months ago. Although the timing was not the one you had hoped for, you and Carlos could not be happier that a little Sainz was on the way.

You had been ecstatic when he proposed, and you could not wait to get married. Your only condition was that the wedding must be after your graduation, so you could have your maiden name on the degree, but before the birth of the baby, so you could all be Sainz.

That’s how you and Carlos ended up in kitschy chapel in Las Vegas after a thrilling GP. The pictures were adorable. You were in a short white dress, with your full belly on display, and your now husband was in tux, holding you possessively in his arms. You looked positively in love, and that’s what you were. This was not the grand wedding you had expected, but it was a thousand times sweeter. Plus, it would be a great story to tell at bedtime.

[goldblumluv]

FIRST TIME HUGH REALISES HE IS ATTRACTED TO YOU

I’ve just finished Flawless and I just love a cowboy romance and a lot of what I’ve read it is grumpy x sunshine. This isn’t a cowboy Hugh story but I like the idea of like a forbidden romance / he shouldn’t like you (but he does) but he kind of acts out to pretend he doesn’t like you.

tags: female reader. Hugh’s POV. Angst. Slow burn. Confusion. Some fluff.

w/c: 4.5k

summary: you are a makeup artist on set of deadpool and wolverine. you’ve actually managed to get assistant head of makeup so you’re quite high up and you do work a lot on Hugh (and a little on Ryan) - instead of extras etc. you’re one month in so you’ve started to build a work relationship with Hugh but it’s starting to get flirtatious and the next level. Hughs POV (I love when books do this)

“More lube” Shawn shouts. She comes running over with a bottle in hand. I can see her cheeks flush pink as she touches me and her breaths become deeper. I must admit I didn’t take my eyes off her as she rubbed across my chest and down my stomach. Luckily, everyone is moving equipment to get ready for this scene, so it feels like it’s just us. She doesn’t even look at me once, so I know she’s avoiding my eye contact. She acts so confident back in the trailer but seeing how innocent she is right now is driving me crazy. Has she not touched a lot of men before? Why is she shying away? When she finishes she playfully slaps me right on the chest, but is giving me the eyes. “All done” she says with a devilish smile. Her back is turned before I could say something; she is giving Shawn the thumbs up to let her know she’s ready so I also throw up a thumbs up. I check her out one last time. As times got on her makeup has got less and her hair is a bit more carefree, and she’s only more beautiful for it. Plus it makes me feel good she’s obviously feeling more relaxed and comfortable. However today she is wearing a tight top plus tight jeans, which only highlight the curves of her body. I change the direction of my gaze quickly because I can feel an erection growing.

After filming, we go back to the trailer. I hardly speak to her. I don’t want to. This is the first time it’s gone from puppy love to Oh, I want to have sex with you. I want to see what you look like naked. And I can’t be having these thoughts for oh so many reasons. We work together. She is younger than half my age. My divorce hasn’t even gone public yet. Can you imagine I’m seen with a 25 year old before the divorce has gotten public? We start walking together whilst she’s telling me how good the shooting went, asking if I hurt. She’s caring and reassuring. She quickly gets out of her phone and picks up her pace whilst I stay trailing behind. Part of me knows she’s doing it cause she feels awkward at my lack of response but her walking ahead, is not helping my cause right now. It’s just us in the trailer. It’s the end of the shoot, so she’s just taking everything off me. The dirt, the lube, the eyebrow gel that colours in the greys in my beard that are probably… no… are older than her. She steps back, “what’s up? you’re being off” “I’m just tired” “hm” She carries on her job. I’m lying through my teeth. The radio is filling the silence between us. I can tell from that murmur she’s defensive straight away, not believing me. “Do you want to get food?” I feel my dick twitch. Is she asking me out? “I think I’m just going go back to the hotel” She is asking me out and I deny her which I hate. “You might feel better if you eat” persuasive. “Honestly I’ll be better tomorrow, I’ve just hit my wall”

I usually help her tidy up at the end of the day. I still do this. If I don’t I know she will be on my back, hurt, upset or confused. “You can go, if you want, I don’t mind” “No it’s fine, you’ll be able to leave quicker if I help” Even though I do have a crush on her like a 16 year old boy that’s just got his first dose of testosterone, I am still 56 and need to act like it. I know how she organises everything. We leave together. We’re staying in the same hotel but how you imagine, me and Ryan and Shawn are up top whilst she’s lower down. Which I believe isn’t fair. I don’t need the biggest room. We take the elevator and when it reaches her floor she fist bumps me, almost like she’s a 16 year old boy as well. I wonder if she feels the same? How do you know? How you do know especially when the girl very obviously does not know how to talk to men?

After a few hours she texts me. This is normal routine again. It won’t be a full conversation, considering we see each other in person nearly every day, so you might as well save the conversation for in person. It’s usually along the lines of she’s listening to a song I’ve recommended or a film I’ve spoke about. And to be honest, I do the same back. I really want to know what inspires her. She texts me a photo of her out for dinner, with a man’s hands. I immediately heat up with jealousy. Who the fuck is that? I’m trying to think of seeing her day to day speaking to any men, there’s a couple on her team. She speaks to Ryan and Shawn. I know she’s spoken to lighting and cinematography and the camera men when she’s asking for their opinions on how it looks. But does she really spend a lot of time talking to a man? That’s not me? No. And we are shooting in England, but she said she’s so far from her hometown and she has no one this way. I want to bite and ask her, but the more that this is entertained the deeper and worse it’ll be. So I don’t.

I start to fist my dick to the thought of her. My plan today is not working, at all. After I finish, I just think about this guy. Which ruins the mood completely. Part of me wants to tell Ryan, but not yet. Especially in the middle of shooting. I don’t want Ryan to also be awkward around her.

The next couple of days are well… awkward. I don’t know what to do. You know the last time I was in this situation? Never. You know last time I was getting feelings for someone? Over 30 years ago. At first, I’m met with a lot of “you’re quiet” which feels like her prodding and asking what’s going on, without saying it. “I don’t like it” she says outright. Yeah, me neither. She doesn’t let my grunts deter her for a while. She could possibly have a conversation with herself I’ve discovered. I found out the guy she went to food with was someone on lighting. Closer to her age. I’ve seen them speak a couple of times and didn’t think anything of it. I thought she was giving her opinion and asking for his. Now there’s another guy in the mix? Jesus Christ. But luckily she blurts out she doesn’t like him, and she’s just someone she’s found as a friend but she doesn’t know if he feels like that. Which eases me a bit, but not entirely. I don’t want him here at all. “Was it a date?” That might be the first full question I’ve muttered and I can see the slight eyebrow raise of shock. “I didn’t think so. We were just texting about food and he asked if we should go get some and I thought I’m hungry so why not. But I didn’t put any effort in. And we went back afterwards. I don’t know if he put effort in” Right, so if I got over myself, that could’ve been us. Whether we went out for greasy food and ordered greasy food to us, I had the invite first.

Tensions are high. She’s meeting my passive aggression with…. Passive aggression. She really does give out the energy she gets. I wish she understood this was for the better. Times of walking to set together is now met with excuses for “I’ll meet you there” and on breaks she finds some of her team to sit with. One day Ryan asks where I’m going and I reply I’m going eat in my trailer. Like that was the plan all along. He looks concerned but lets me do it. How have I messed this up. I sit and eat and just think about how I’ve built up this relationship and pushed her out.

One day she was sitting with Luke- this lighting guy on break. I don’t say anything but I ping with jealousy. At the end of the shoot, I don’t tidy up with her. “Aren’t you helping today?” She asks. “Ask Luke” I say as I walk out. I see her eyebrows furrow as I walk out. “Where’s Georgia” Ryan asks. “She’s got a lot on” “You’re being weird” “I’m not” I say avoiding eye contact. “You won’t even look at me?” “Can we eat in your room” Ryan pulls the same face as her. Trust me to fall for a girl that absolutely mirrors my best mate. “Okay” is all he musters as we get in the same car for once.

“I’ve got myself in a situation and I think I’ve done something I might regret” Ryan nods but his face tells me he’s anxious. “I’ve gotten attached to someone” “Blake?” Ryan asks almost instinctively. “No you fucking idiot. Actually Blake might’ve been socially better” I laugh. “Is it y/n?” Ryan teases. I drop my mouth. “How do you know?” “Who doesn’t know?” I repeat the question back to him in shock. Do people know? “We have eyes… that can see… you two attached at the hip to one another… I know she works with the you the closest but taking breaks together and walking together all the time is not part of the job description” I put my hand on my head and do an exasperated sigh. “Why couldn’t we be friends?” “Hugh… me and you are friends… I don’t see you moping when I need to have a meeting with Shawn so we can’t eat dinner together” I cover my face. I thought it was hidden well. “This can’t be happening” Ryan looks smug in my negative emotions. “Do I think it’s weird? Yes. You could be her dad. But you aren’t and it’s legal. But these really exceptional circumstances. You’re together nearly every day, of course you’re going to get feelings or whatever you called it.” “Do you think it’s wrong she is staff and I’m an actor?” “Do YOU think there is? Because I think there would be more of a power imbalance if this was someone off the street. You’re always going to be seen as a higher power cause you’re Hugh Jackman, but she’s put in so much work to be here. Let her be her own person.” “Why are you encouraging it?” “Because I get to watch you like a lovesick puppy even if you don’t realise what you’re doing so I think you should stop caring what other people might think- if it feels right you should try” “my divorce isn’t finalised yet” “I’m not telling you to marry her, oh my god. *I smile* I’m just saying if you like her.. be more intentional with her” “I think I’ve fucked up anyway” Ryan groans “why?” “I saw her with someone else and got jealous and made a comment” “I KNEW SOMETHING HAS BEEN UP WITH YOU” “I’ve been a prick to her the past week or so and I know I have but I don’t know what to do” “that’s not very nicest man alive of you” that makes me roll my eyes. “She started to give me a boner and that’s a line too far so I wanted to distance myself.” Ryan giggles like a little girl. “So you had a tantrum?” “Not at first, I’ve just stopped talking to her so much so she’s made excuses to not be with me on set. Instead she’s been with Luke. I usually help her clean up and we leave together but instead I start to leave and she asked what I was doing, and I told her to ask Luke to help her.” Ryan’s face flattens. “Why are you acting like that?” “Cause I don’t know what to do” “APOLOGISE” I groan. “I know” We go back to eating in silence. “Just don’t bring any shit onto my film” I salute.

The next day in work, it isn’t even icy. It’s worse. She’s totally professional with me. She never wasn’t in the first place, but we have no general conversation. Whether it’s in front of the team or when we’re alone. It’s only “look down” “look up” “twist your neck for me.” All work related. Who knew I’d crave a conversation about your weirdest dreams or something more ridiculous. When we’re alone I try to address it. “I shouldn’t have said that.” She looks me dead in the eye. “Okay” “that’s it?” “What do you want me say?” “Don’t you want to know why I said it?” She holds her hands up “your business is your business” Suddenly she’s gone from asking me all these questions and feeling like a safe space to nothing. That comment hurts the most. It’s gone from being a team to nothing. Someone knocks asking if I’m ready. “You should go” she says. I would almost prefer her to be pissed at me. Make a scene. Cause this only makes me doubt she doesn’t feel anything to me. “Are you going see him later?” I ask. “No?” She replies like I’ve asked her the most stupid question. “I told you it’s just friends, if you think something else that’s on you” “are we friends?” “That’s also on you” She’s being too easy. “So we need talk about it” “You need get to set” “aren’t you coming?” “Nope” she smiles. I groan. It makes her laugh. “Go” I do as told.

The next few days are the same. Only work talk. “I feel like I need explain” “You don’t” “can I… for my peace?” Ryan would rip into me if he heard me like this. Even I smile at how I’m pleading. “Not at work” “Will you meet me at my room?” “You want speak to me… you come to my room. Also you haven’t even apologised for being rude yet.” I touch her arm, and she lets me. She always gives me physical touch; not sexual but I’ve noticed when she’s trying to be genuine and reassuring she does gently touch you, and I know she would like that back. It brings her to attention. “I’m sorry” she winces “it’s a start” I’m so happy she’s not completely righting me off. We’ve had a conversation before how she finds it easy to de attach herself and doesn’t give second chances. I know I’ve still got a foot in here, and I know I really need to make it up for her. I think… I know how I acted would’ve hurt her worse than what I said, over the fact I’m jealous.

I haven’t seen her for a couple hours. I actually go try to find her. I’m walking up and down trailers. Shawn asks what I’m doing and I just smile at him dumbstruck, and he gives me a knowing smile back. “Good luck” Oh I’m not used to this at all. This is scary. I can hear shouting from the editing. Y/N storms out shaking. I grab her elbow to stop her, so she has to speak to me. “What happened?” “He’s a stupid fucking cunt” She grabs her arm back. I walk in the trailer. Before I even say anything “Tell your child bride that she doesn’t know better than people that have trained in this” I walk out instinctively. I was going to ask him calmly what has happened. I feel sorry for her, she does love to talk to people. She’s soft. But I also know sometimes she gives unwarranted opinions, even if it’s delivered in a lovely way, and some of the 40 year old men do not appreciate it. I’m shaking. First of all, to reduce her like that? Ridiculous. You don’t speak to anyone like that. Especially, even if this is old fashioned, you don’t scream and shout at a woman and one younger than you at that. I go find Shawn and Ryan and they fire him on the spot. I feel small, telling Shawn and Ryan about this, but it’s not my film. I don’t have that power. But they do it, no trying to compromise, which I appreciate. “Tell her we’ve sorted it and we won’t let anyone be bullied” I go straight to the makeup trailer. It’s locked. I know she’s in there. I knock and no reply. “It’s me”

She opens up. I just pull her into a hug. She kind of resists at first; not putting her arms around me. But she does after an initial second; sink into me. “He’s gone” “what do you mean?” “He’s fired” She lifts her head to look at me. She’s been crying but has stopped by the time I got here. Her eyes are glassy. There’s a quick flash of annoyance but she blinks it back, “thank you” I can tell she’s trying. I know part of her wants to know why I did that; the same part that struggles to let someone help her. But she’s let me help. I’ll make sure to bring this up later. She puts her head back on my chest and I’m sure she can hear how fast my heart is pounding. “Do you want to go home?” “Not really but I can’t lie my heart isn’t in it today” “go home” she looks back up confused “who will do the work?” “Give me the numbers of people on your team and I’ll sort it.” “Also who made you boss?” She smiles. “I’m not the boss but it’s a perk when I’m best friends with them” She’s thinking of a response “you don’t need to carry the world on your shoulders” “okay” she grabs her personal items after sorting out her cover. “Do you want to go to my room?” She pulls her face and laughs. “No” “you don’t want to relax in a big bed and a big bath?” “I do” She looks at me deep in the eyes. Trying to read me. I just hold my key out. We’re both looking at each and smiling for about… 3 seconds.. but it feels like forever. I also think sex would be less intimate than this. She’s looking right into my bones, trying to read me. I am reading her. I know her better than she thinks. I don’t think she’s ever had someone she can rely on, and I want to do that for her. I think her confidence is almost a facade, or an aid, for how much she’s done alone and I think she’s never really had someone she can trust. That’s why she can detach herself easily. That’s why I saw a flash of anger at me getting involved. But I can see she’s trying to give me a chance. And I ruined it the other day by having a tantrum. I don’t want to be another person she pulls down her walls for and then has to put them back up. When she takes my keys, I let out of a breath of relief. I know I still have more work to do.

I text her to let her know I’m on my way. Ryan asks how she is. “She’s okay I think, I’ve let her in my room” He teasingly slaps my chest, knowing what he’s implying. I smile. “No, well I wish, but not after today.” “So are we not acting like 16 year olds anymore” “No” I deadpan. I knock on and I can hear her unlock. Her hair is natural. No makeup whatsoever. In a robe. She looks angelic. Then I start to think what’s under the robe. I let out a deep breath. “Have you got clothes on under that” I cringe as I say it. She throws her head back and opens her robe. She’s in pyjamas. A long t shirt and shorts. Not form fitting but my eyes trail up her legs” “don’t worry- you told me to relax so I am” She starts to walk off and I follow. “This room is lovely” “it is but it’s not necessary” she doesn’t say anything. I get on the bed and she follows. “I’m sorry for acting how I did, I let my jealousy get the better of me” “didn’t know you’d have feelings at your age?” I smile “yes, your heart doesn’t stop” I can tell she feels better in herself with these smart ass comments. “What are you jealous of?” She asks smugly. Knowingly. I stutter on my words. “You said you wanted talk about it.” “I have a crush on you” There’s painful silence. I’m looking at her with yearning in my eyes. I end up covering my face, exasperated by her silence. “I’m too old to feel like this I know” She does an evil laugh. “Is that why you’re jealous? Of him?” I nod. “I’ve told you we’re just friends” “I know but you look happy together” “God forbid” she jokes. “Come on you’re meant to be listening right now” “I am!” “Also he’s good looking, age appropriate, why would you not like him?” She gets a serious look on her face. “I feel a way for you too” I think I sit up slightly too eager. “- but I don’t appreciate how you acted at all. Especially at your age. That wasn’t okay. Even if you didn’t want to help, I didn’t like the walking out on me with a snide comment. You need to speak to me.” I salute. “I know and I’m sorry, I knew that would’ve hurt the most. I won’t do it again. I think how I handled it was to be honest, based a lot on I don’t understand what I’m feeling and I didn’t know how you felt so it really won’t happen again” “do you feel better knowing I feel the same?” I lie back on the bed. My back hurts. “I feel more comfortable and confident now to not be a prick”

I open my arms to a hug. She sinks into me. It feels natural. Also I’m realising we’re cuddling on a bed. I’m controlling my dick. Think of ugly sad things Hugh. Who knew at this age I’m still ready to go. But not today. My hands are under MY robe that’s she’s wearing, rubbing up and down her back. Starting to feel the gentle curve of her ass and where her breasts are pushed slightly out. “I hated not speaking to you” “I didn’t like it either and I can tell you how sorry I am” her confession makes my heart flutter. “If it helps I don’t really know what I’m doing either- I’m not very good at being with someone… or even getting close to that” “I don’t understand why” “Uhm….. this is a conversation for another time… but I don’t think a lot of people are attracted to me” It hurts she doesn’t see how attractive she is. “I don’t really ooze sexiness” she says looking at me with the same eyes I would love to see in between my legs. “I’m awkward and I’m not funny- people my age just want to have sex and I want a relationship where they’re my best friend” “all these reasons make you special to me” “do I say thank you?” We both laugh. “I don’t know” “what happens now?” “Well Ryan has said we can’t bring shit back onto the film set so we just carry on as we were” this whole conversation she was on my chest, which made this slightly easier. She suddenly sit up on her hands “what does Ryan know?” “Will you be mad?” “No…” she leaves a pause. “Well I told him everything… well my side. That I’m getting feelings for you and I don’t know what to do so I’ve acted out” “what did he say?” “Everyone knows anyway” “Whaaaaaat!” “Yeah apparently we’re not very good at hiding how we feel.” “Well I thought I knew how you felt but then you didn’t speak to me for a week so I thought you were confusing” “I had no idea how you felt until you blushed when touching my stomach” she goes back down to cover her face. “Don’t tell me anymore” I cackle. Y/N admits she’s not used to this and I need to be patient with her. “You need be patient with me. I don’t know what I’m doing. God, ignoring the circumstances of this, my divorce isn’t even final, that’s a whole seperate ballpark. What if someone sees us? I don’t think we should set any times or goals or anything but now it might be easier.” “I didn’t even think about paparazzi or that side.” The tension is the air is thick. I act like nearly 60 year old man I am. “We don’t have to think that far yet though, you might be sick of me by then. We should just enjoy it for what it is right now” She goes to say something and stops herself “Okay sir” This makes me grab at her but I quickly stop. That’s not what a polite gentleman would do. “What were you going say?” “You might decide you don’t want me” “Spending nearly all week with someone, you get to know them quickly and decide how you feel about them and I don’t think I’ll decide that.” She lifts her head back up. Reading my face. She goes back down. “Okay” we stay like this for a while. “Do you want me to go?” I tap her so she sits up. “No, stay.”

We get up and order greasy food. We lie back on the bed full. “Wait… you shouldn’t have had that” “it’s okay I’ll go harder at the gym” She laughs. We’re watching a quiz show. “What happened earlier?” I ask. I was looking at scales and I noticed an error. A genuine error. I tried to tell them but I suppose they were stressed and bit my head off. So I bit his head off.” “If I didn’t get involved, what would you have done?” She shrugs “nothing” “I know it’s hard for you but I never want you go through anything alone, especially not anything like that. I’m here to help” She registers my face. “Okay” She then snuggles up to me. With every touch and comment that is slightly more vulnerable, I feel pride. Like I’ve accomplished something. I know it’ll be a long journey but I’m happy she is seeing me as a person she can trust. She doesn’t have to carry everything alone.

[storm-angel989]

heyy ik this is weird to ask but cam you do valentino's daugher x vox idk why but im screaming for content and honestly i think it would be interesting to see if they "got along" you coulf say you dont have to do this i just find this a interesting concept like imagine if they had more of a special bond then valentino and his own daugher plus im sorry if this is to much to ask for

Hi there,

Sorry for the delay! Take a peek at this one- and let me know if you were thinking a different vibe!

~Mandy

“Hey, Uncle Vox!” I called cheerfully as I walked into his office.  Two more nights, two more until my final game of the school year. As an avid water polo player, my games were the height of my highschool experience and this final game this year was one I had been working hard towards. I tossed my backpack on my desk next to my Uncle Vox’s and slid myself into my chair. 

My weekday routine had been the same since I started school. With my father being The Valentino, and the odd hours he worked, it was my Uncle Vox who usually woke me up early and kept me on a schedule. Brushing my teeth, getting me dressed, breakfast and out the door when I was little. Now that I was sixteen, that morning routine looked a little different. Instead of waking up at seven, I woke up at four with Uncle Vox. We hit the gym together, then parted ways until it was time for breakfast- or more importantly, coffee. Sometimes my dad joined us, and sometimes my Auntie Vel joined us. But with their ever changing schedules more often than not it just wasn’t practical for them to join. So Uncle Vox stayed the consistent one. 

“Hey yourself, kid,” Vox replied as he stood up out of his chair. “Your dad is on the line, he wants to chat with you.” 

I slid into Vox’s seat and my fathers face appeared on the monitor in front of me. My heart soared. I bet he had a big surprise waiting to celebrate after tomorrow night.

“Hi Daddy!” I said cheerfully. “Are you ready to watch me rock it tomorrow?” 

My father’s face looked sad. “That’s what I wanted to talk to you about bebita. I’m sorry, I won’t make it. I have a crisis to handle down in the greed ring and I…” 

I could feel the sadness wash over me. The rest of the conversation went in one ear and out the other and I tried to hide my crushing disappointment. 

“I’m sorry baby, but your Uncle Vox and Auntie Vel will be there and they promised to keep me updated.” My father finished. “I’ll make it up to you later okay? We can do whatever you want. Daddy daughter day.”

Yeah, sure. I had heard that one before. To date, he owed me no less than six daddy daughter days. And the flowers and trinkets he sent to make up for his absence didn’t help either. He tried- I knew it. But nothing he said or did would make up for his lack of presence. 

I signed off and put my head in my hands as I tired to keep tears from falling down my face. I felt Vox’s hand on my shoulder and I looked back at him as I bit back bitter disappointment. 

Vox seemed to recognize the look on my face. “Aw honey, I know. But we’ll be there. I promise.” He squeezed my shoulder gently. “Your Auntie Vel and I will cheer you on.” 

“Yeah, at least someone cares.” I muttered as I rubbed my eyes. 

“Now you know that isn’t true sweetheart,” Vox began. “Your Daddy loves you very much, his work just…”

“You make time for me!” I said angrily. “You make it a point to sit with me and go to my games and ask me about my day, I can’t remember the last time I saw my dad at one of my games or even just right after school!” 

“My schedule is a lot more fluid than your dads is sweetheart,” he replied calmly. “I understand your frustration, but if your dad could make it he would.”

It was the age-old argument. After a few seconds, I stood up and Vox pulled me into a hug. 

“Hey, you’re loved. Don’t forget that, okay?” He planted a kiss on my forehead. “Now let’s get that homework done.” 

I scowled but sat back down at my desk. The homework rule had been instilled by my father from my first days of preschool. Home. Snack. Work. Sometimes at my pink desk in my room, if it was Dad or auntie Vel picked me up. But more often than not, it was uncle Vox who showed up in the limo and he had work to do too. As I grew, the desk next to his grew as well. From a tiny pink plastic chair to a full grown pink office chair- I sat right by Uncle Vox almost every single day. 

His snack drawer too changed as I grew- from cheeze-itz, to fresh fruit, to protein bars and goldfish. 

“Hey, can you check this one?” I asked after a few moments of work. “Uncle Vox?”

“Did you try it three times three different ways and watch a video?” He replied back without another glance. 

“Yeah.”

“Then, sure.” He lifted his head up and picked up my homework sheet. He glanced it over. “I think this is a quadratic formula problem. You forgot the square root sign- remember the song?”

“I do but…”

He cleared his throat. “X equals negative b plus or minus the square root of b squared minus for ac all over two a!”

To his credit, the song was a great study tool. To my mortification, Vox couldn’t sing worth a damn. 

“You’re way too enthusiastic about math,” I muttered as I made the correction. 

“But I was right wasn’t I?” He teased as he turned back to his computer. 

“That’s not the point,” I replied. Not to my surprise, the problem worked itself out. “Thanks Uncle Vox.” 

I stood up and leaned in between him and his desk wrapped my arms around him. “And thanks for being the best uncle a girl could want.” 

I felt him return the hug. “Love you, kiddo. More than you’ll ever know.” 

I released him and he grinned. “If you get your homework done quickly I’ll take you to the pool and run a few practice rounds with you. And then I’ll take you out to dinner- see if Auntie can meet us.”

The work that went into Vox being able to get into the water was tremendous- not to mention he’d be leaving his job early. 

“Really? You have time for that?” I asked. 

“For you sweetie? I’ll always have time.”

[tiedyeflannels]

Dating Rumors pt. 2

Jungkook x reader

Word count: 1.9k

Dating Rumors: pt.1

Main Masterlist

A/N: Hi!!!! Thank you to everybody who liked the first part of Dating Rumors so much, that I had to make a second part! This one's for you! And thanks to @maple-leaves-in-the-wind for helping me make some decisions. Anyway... Enjoy!

“When are you two going to straighten things out,” Taehyung asked.

It had been about a month since Jungkook’s confession at my apartment and things were far from being “okay” between us.

We were awkward whenever we looked at each other and couldn’t have a proper conversation like we did before all of this happened and because of that, the members started to ask questions.

On the other hand, the news about Jungkook and the girl he was “supposedly” dating only lasted a week before it became old news because Jungkook let everyone know, on live, that he wasn’t dating anyone. 

I sighed, closing my laptop.

“I don’t know, Tae. How do you even start a conversation like that? ‘Hey Jk, I’m sorry I kinda blew you off when you confessed a few weeks ago. It’s just that I was thinking about you and your career instead of hearing you out on what you wanted because I care that much for you’?”

I shook my head as I sighed again. 

Honestly, I don’t think I was thinking right at that moment. My best friend just confessed that he was in love with me and I let my insecurities get the better of me. I don’t think anybody would think rationally at a moment like that. 

He looked me straight in the eyes.

“Yes.”

I huffed.

He leaned back in his chair, “Listen, Y/n, this is eating you both up inside and all of us are starting to worry. The faster you guys hash this out, the faster things go back to normal. And I’m not saying this because all of us are tired of seeing you two wallow in your feelings,” I rolled my eyes.

He continued.

“But because this,” he vaguely gestured in the air, “is affecting your work and his’.” 

I nodded, “Yeah… You’re right. I’ll head over to his place later today and figure it out.”

He smiled before Yoongi walked in the room and looked between us.

“What are you guys up to?”

“I was just talking to her about the situation between her and Jungkook,” Tae stated.

Yoongi turned his gaze to me, “Dude, you gotta figure that out.”

I huffed. “I know!”

KNOCK! KNOCK!

I was standing in front of Jungkook’s apartment. I texted him after my talk with Tae, asking if I could go over to his place to talk. He agreed and I told him that I would stop by whenever I finished with work.

So now, here I am… at 10:32… pm.

I threw my head back and sighed, rubbing my hand over my face.

Maybe, I should've waited until tomorrow…

I was about to turn around when I heard some thumping from behind the door before it quickly opened to show a disheveled Jungkook. I smiled when I saw his hair sticking out in every direction.

“Hey, Y/n/n!”

“Hey, Kook… Sorry if I woke you up. I can come back another time if-”

“No no no! It’s fine,” he hurriedly shook his head.

“I wasn’t sure when you were coming over and kinda put off cleaning until now. But I wasn’t sleeping!”

I just looked at him with a tiny smile as he rambled. He took a breath to calm down and stepped to the side.

“Would you like to come in?” I nodded and stepped inside.

The first thing you see when you enter is the kitchen and as I’m looking around, I see a bunch of food wrappers and empty ramen bowls lying around.

I stopped by the island and looked at Jungkook, who wore a panicked expression before he started to hurriedly pick up the mess.

“Sorry about the mess!”

I giggled while helping him, “Don’t worry. I’ve seen your place in worse condition.”

He chuckled as we threw away the trash before he started to wipe down the counter.

“So…” he started as I looked at him.

“What did you want to talk about?”

“Right.” I leaned against the island and sighed. 

“I’m sorry,” I said before he whipped his head to look at me.

“Why are you apologizing?! You have nothing to be sorry for-”

“Before you start rambling, will you let me explain,” I asked, smiling.

He nodded as he zipped his lips.

“I wanted to apologize for the other night because I didn’t consider your feelings.”

I looked away from him and then continued, “I got scared when you confessed and got defensive which made me say things I didn’t mean and on top of all of that, I completely disregarded your feelings, so… I’m sorry.” 

By the end of my apology, I had my eyes on the floor as I nervously fiddled with my hands. Jungkook moved to stand in front of me and grabbed my hands.

“Listen,” he started as I raised my head to look at him, “I’m the one that should be apologizing considering that I was the one that confessed and put you in that position in the first place. I should’ve just waited until the next day to explain what was going on.”

I shook my head, “You were just trying to protect what you love.”

“And you were too,” he said, shaking my arms for emphasis.

I looked away as I thought for a moment. He was right, I was trying to protect myself, but at the same time I was trying to protect him.

He let out a breath, “So… Are we good?” 

I looked at him again and smiled when I saw his hopeful expression.

“Yeah,” I nodded, but he raised his eyebrows in question.

“For real this time,” I laughed.

He sighed in relief and a smile graced his lips before he pulled me into a hug.

“Good, because I’ve missed talking to you,” he said as he nuzzled his face in my neck.

I held him tighter, “Me too.”

~

“Ooh~ When did this happen,” Taehyung sang as he entered the room with the others.

I looked at Jungkook, who was sitting right next to me with a hand around the middle of my back while I showed him some designs for their new album.

“We patched things up a couple of days ago, if that’s what you’re asking,” I said, looking back at the laptop.

He shook his head.

“No, I’m talking about this,” he said as he mimicked Jungkook’s arm and then dramatically imitated me “cuddling up” next to him.

I rolled my eyes at the scene.

“So, are you guys together now,” Namjoon asked as he tugged Tae to sit down.

Jungkook shook his head, “No, we agreed that it wasn’t a good time to start dating now, so we’ll wait and see where it goes.” I nodded in agreement. 

Right after Jungkook was done saying that, Hobi walked into the room while looking at his phone with his eyebrows furrowed.

“Guys, have you seen this,” he asked as he walked over to us, holding out his phone so we could see.

“What,” I asked, taking the phone.

Nothing prepared me for what I was going to read.

“BTS member Jungkook spotted once more with rumored girlfriend,” I read out loud before scrolling a bit further to read more of the article.

“Jungkook was recently seen hugging a girl at his apartment complex. Fans think that he might have a secret relationship considering this is the second time this has happened."

“WHAT?!” Jungkook and I exclaimed in tandem.

I looked at Jungkook and saw the concerned expression that bordered fear. I’m sure I wore the same expression as he looked at me.

“Well… at least they don’t know your name,” Jin spoke up, trying to defuse the tension in the air.

I was about to look on the bright side when I scrolled a little further. 

“Unlike the previous time, the girl in the photos has now been identified as Big Hit’s lead graphic designer L/n Y/n. You’ve got to be kidding me,” I sighed as I flopped back into the couch and held out the phone so Hobi could take it back.

Once he took it back I ran my hands over my face in frustration as Jungkook flopped back with me. 

“What are you guys going to do,” Jimin asked in a soft tone.

I groaned before turning to look at Jungkook. We all sat in silence for a while, thinking about what to do before Jungkook quickly sat up and turned to me.

“I think I know what to do! Would you mind meeting me at my place later tonight?” I nodded.

~

“So, what’s your grand plan to get us out of this mess,” I asked as I walked through the door.

He was sitting on his couch and fiddling with his phone on the coffee table, trying to keep it standing upright.

He looked back at me and smiled, “We are going to go live.” 

Any expression on my face fell, the moment that sentence left his mouth.

I stared at him as he went back to fixing his phone, “You can’t be serious, right?”

“Well, it worked last time, so why can’t it work now?”

“Because the first time wasn’t true, but we have feelings for each whether we’ve defined our relationship or not, so I don’t think it would be right to lie to ARMY,” I said, walking over to the side of the couch.

“Who said we were going to lie,” he asked, looking over to me after pressing something on the phone.

I looked over at his phone to see the countdown reach zero before starting the live.

“Kook,” I panicked and moved away from the couch, off to the side so the camera couldn’t pick me up. 

He got up and walked over to me, “It’s okay. ARMYs are the sweetest, most understanding people I know. They’ll understand if we tell them the truth, okay?”

I looked at him for a moment before nodding, “Okay, I’m trusting you.”

He gently took my hand and led me back to the side of the couch.

“Wait here until I introduce you. They might start a riot if you just show up without any warning,” he whispered.

I quietly chuckled, “Sounds like you have some experience.”

“Maybe once or twice,” he said before taking his seat in front of the camera.

“Hey guys,” he said, waving to the camera.

I sat down on the arm of the couch, watching him talk with ARMY for a bit. I smiled when he started laughing at something that was said in the chat, but soon enough people started to ask about the dating rumors. 

“So, I know all of you are curious about Y/n, the girl in the pictures with me. Just like all of you, she’s someone very important to me. She’s been my best friend for a very long time and I would really like to keep her in my life,” he said and a smile crept its way on my face.

“So, let me introduce all of you to her,” he looked over to me and patted the seat next to him.

I took a breath before standing up and taking a seat beside him.

“Hi, ARMY,” I said as I shyly waved at the camera.

The chat started to move quickly since I came into frame and we were trying to read them until one caught Jungkook’s eye.

“Are you guys dating,” he read aloud, looking to me.

I turned to look at him and then back at the chat, reading the messages.

She’s so pretty!!

You guys look cute together!

If you weren’t already together, I would ship!!!

I smiled and looked back at him, nodding.

He smiled brightly as wrapped an arm around my torso tugging me closer.

I smiled back at him and while looking at me, he proudly declared, “Yeah. We’re dating.”

[j0hnj4ej3n]

drinking with nct dream

word count: 1.6k

warnings: mentions alcohol consumption, puking, slightly suggestive!! let me know if i’m missing anything~

notes: this was just something i’ve been wanting to write for fun because i was drinking with friends at a bar recently and it was honestly one of the best nights i’ve had in a while so i just wanted to be delusional with those memories and with it for 7dream hehe <3 hope y’all enjoyed reading and do send in requests if you have any and i’ll consider writing them~

𔘓Mark:

The both of you appreciate a drink or two every once in a while. Just to wind down and have meaningful conversations over some drinks. With alcohol in each of your systems, the mood switches from giggling over random things and silly memories, to having deep and vulnerable conversations. And then back to laughing your asses off over nothing at all. Mark gets a lot more affectionate when he gets tipsy and most times you end up on his lap by the end of the night. “Dude, you’re actually reallyyy pretty y’know?” “Shut up.” You would reply, getting shy and Mark’s throwing his head back, laughing at your flustered reaction. You love moments like this because Mark always holds you close and you’ve both completely let your guards down, it’s sweet and intimate and you’re both just happily dwelling in each other’s presence. “I’m sleepy…” Mark mumbles after the two of you empty a few more bottles. “Mmm, we should probably go to bed,” “No, no, here…” Mark mumbles into the back of your neck, pulling you down to lie with him on the couch. You chuckle to yourself because you find sleepy, tipsy Mark so adorable. He leans up slightly, to kiss you softly on the cheek, mumbling a soft ‘i love you’ as he pulls you closer by the waist and falling asleep.

𔘓Renjun:

There’s a lot of things you find impressive about your boyfriend, and one of them is his high ass alcohol tolerance. You wouldn’t say you’re a lightweight, but your tolerance is nothing compared to Renjun’s. So you feel the safest when you’re out drinking with your friends and Renjun tags along. “Okay, i think you’ve had enough tonight my love,” Renjun tells you, pulling the shot glass gently out of your grasp, ignoring your whining. “But i don’t want to waste them~” “Don’t worry about it, i’ll finish… okay? i’ll drink them… you just chill for a bit,” Renjun tells you, brushing your hair away from your face and letting you lean your tired frame against him. If you ever had to puke, Renjun doesn’t shy away from holding your hair back and readily cleans you up after too. He brings you water and lets you fall asleep beside him as the rest of your friends party on into the night. Sometimes he nags at you for drinking more than you can handle but Renjun can’t even deny that you look so cute with your cheeks red and your eyelids heavy from the sleepiness that alcohol brings. Plus, Renjun likes being able to take care of you. And even in your drunken and unconscious state, you make his heart flutter when you reach out to interlock your hand tightly with his, with your head on his shoulder. 

𔘓Jeno:

“Woah… you’re gorgeous…” you tell Jeno with both hands on your cheek, looking at him with your doe eyes that are glazed over now because of the amount of drinks you had tonight. Jeno chuckles as he rubs the back of his neck. He doesn’t like drinking, so he’s really just over at your place to make sure you’ll be fine till tomorrow morning. You aren’t a huge fan of alcohol yourself but you’ve been stressed recently so you invited Jeno over to hang out with you while you drank. “You really think so?” Jeno asks with a sheepish smile on his face, if you were drunk off alcohol, he was getting drunk off you and all your shenanigans tonight. You nodded, feeling shy and kind of embarrassed, not knowing you voiced out your inner thoughts. Jeno reaches out to hold your hand, caressing your knuckles, “You’re lucky then… since we’re already together.” You gasp, “You’re my boyfriend?” Jeno nodded as he smiled at the shock on your face. “Oh my… I won,” you muttered out which had Jeno scrunching his face in laughter. He thinks you’re crazy adorable right now, “Truthfully, I think I’m the one who won,” Jeno said as he placed a quick kiss against the back of your hand. “Oh man… I should have recorded all that to show you tomorrow.” 

𔘓Haechan:

There’s music playing in the back, a ‘wine night’ playlist you and Haechan curated together for nights just like this. You both share a liking for wine and would drink together when you had time. It’s one of both your favourite ways to spend time together amidst busy schedules. You both found solace in letting the wine relax your mind and bodies. The two of you would have deep talks about your own lives, the future you both dream of together. Sometimes you’ll sit with your legs over Haechan’s lap as he kneads his fingers into your calves. Or Haechan will lay his head on your lap as you run your fingers through his hair. It’s romantic, with the dimmed lights, the scented candles and the soft music playing in the back. Tonight, you’re both on your feet, swaying to the music in each other’s arms, empty wine glasses on the coffee table. Haechan holds your back securely with one arm and your thigh with the other as he dips you, causing you to laugh at this sudden move. He presses light kisses against your exposed neck before he pulls you back upright. “After all this time, I’m still crazy about you…” he whispers against your lips and you kiss him eagerly to show him that you feel the same way too. 

𔘓Jaemin:

Jaemin doesn’t like alcohol, almost despises it. But who is he to stop you from having fun? If you’re happy, then he’s happy, genuinely. Even though he’s completely sober, he lets you drag him to the dance floor, a giddy smile plastered on his face. You’re kind of tipsy as you sway to the music, singing passionately along to the music from the live band. Jaemin’s so amused by you and the joy you’re radiating is so infectious that he’s singing along too. His hands never leave your body though, either holding into your hands as he twirls you around or on your waist to hold you steady. When the two of you get home, you’re more out of it than when you started dancing. And you’re literally all over him, Jaemin knows it’s not like you can help it since you become a lot more touchy when you’re tipsy. You’re planting kisses along his jaw and down his neck and you can feel the vibration on your lips when he lets out a low chuckle. “Honey… we shouldn’t,” Jaemin tells you as he gently pries you off him. You groan at the distance he places between you two, slightly disappointed that he’s rejecting your advances. “You’re drunk…” Jaemin states as he cups your face in his hands, “I’ll help you get ready for bed, okay?” You sigh but end up nodding, feeling tiredness wash over you. You’re dozing off as Jaemin helps you remove your make-up and change into more comfortable clothes. You don’t quite remember how you fell asleep but Jaemin’s already preparing you breakfast when you wake up the next morning. 

𔘓Chenle:

“No!” You exclaim as you lost yet again, meaning you have to take another shot. You’re already feeling so warm on the inside and you’re sure your face is red by now. “You have to drink! Come on~” Your friend urges from the seat in front of you. You sigh as you reach out for the shot glass, but before you even bring it to your lips, Chenle pulls it out from your hand and downs it from beside you. “She can’t take anymore, I’ll drink for her,” Chenle says as he places the shot glass down, inciting a series of ‘oooo’s from your group of friends. Chenle has always been like this, which is why you find him so reliable. As annoying as he is, he’s quick to catch on when you’re uncomfortable or when you’re reaching your limit and never hesitates to step in for you. His tolerance is literally so high, you’d be out cold and Chenle isn’t even a bit tipsy. At times like this, you think Chenle’s kinda cool, romantic even. When you doze off, Chenle stays right by you, covering your exposed legs with his sweater as you sleep. He isn’t all that nice though, because you always wake up with unglamorous pictures of you in the groupchat, sent by the same boy who took shots on your behalf all night. 

𔘓Jisung:

“E’rything's spinning…” Jisung mumbles into your hair. You knew this was a bad idea, Jisung isn’t great at drinking and the boys insisted on playing some stupid drinking game that got your boyfriend drinking beyond what he could take. “Do you need to puke?” You asked him as you pat his thigh, trying to get his attention and you can feel him shaking his head. “You smell great…” Jisung says under his breath as he snuggles closer to you. “Baby, you bought me this perfume,” you tell him as you try to hold back your laughter. Jisung keeps mumbling silly things as he leans against your shoulder. “You’re so pretty,” “It’s crazy… I feel like I’m in a sauna…” “Can we go get ice-cream?” You sigh as you inform him that it’s 3am and there are unfortunately ice-cream places open nearby. “What?? It’s 3??” Jisung huffs and goes silent. You think he dozed off so you stay still, just scrolling through your phone aimlessly, waiting for him to sober up a bit before bringing him into the room to sleep. That’s when you feel the gentlest kiss on your neck and you wonder if you’re imagining it. And there it was again, Jisung’s soft lips against the base of your neck and it lingers longer than the previous one. “Jisung?” “Mhm?” “What are you doing?” “Kissing you.” “Why?” “You’re just so pretty…”

[4ttack-ur-heart]

Cherry Chapstick

Pairing: Armin x reader

Warnings: none.

Summary: Armin refuses to let you use his chapstick. No worries, you have other ideas on how to keep your lips from getting chapped.

(also just pretend chapstick is canon in the aot universe for the sake of the fic 😭)

Another long and grueling day of training was finishing up. The sun was setting through the huge forest of trees.

“Alright, trainings over! Rest up and be ready to head back in 15 minutes.” The squad leader said with his barking voice.

Your squad leader liked doing various training sessions with just your squad, something about strengthening the bond and making it easier to tag team during expeditions.

Landing on one of the branches to catch your breath, you sat against the bark let your body slouch for the first time that day.

“Tired?”

Looking up at the voice, Armin was standing in front of you. His new shorter blond locks shifting gently in the breeze as his pretty blue eyes locked on your figure. He was one of your closest friends. The friendship was honestly ideal with him giving you the guidance that you needed while you encouraged him when he was feeling insecure.

You nodded at him through half-lidded eyes and a lazy smile. “I’m so glad we have a day off tomorrow, I’ll probably spend it sleeping.”

Armin returned a smile at your words. “You’re almost there, (y/n). I’m sure your bed misses you too.” While you laughed at him, Armin squatted down next to you.

“What do you got planned tomorrow?” You asked and leaned your head against the tree. He pulled his green cloak tighter around his shoulders when the breeze kicked in.

“Probably go out into the valley and find a nice place to read.”

“By yourself? What about Eren and Mikasa?” You raised an eyebrow. The trio was pretty much inseparable.

Armin waved off your question with his hand. “They wanted to go into the city and I’m tired of third-wheeling. It wasn’t much fun as kids and still isn’t now.”

Nodding your head, you gazed once more at the sun just about to set. The orange hues casting over the green plains.

Armin finally sat down on the branch, his leg brushing up against yours. “God, I can’t stand this weather.” He muttered and started to fish for something out of his pocket.

With curious eyes, you saw him pull out a small tube. Chapstick? He uncapped it and gently spread it on his lips.

Armin chuckled when he caught you staring at him. “What? My lips are chapped.”

“I can see that.” You could also see his plump pink lips all shiny from the substance. “What flavor is it?”

“Cherry.” He pocketed the chapstick.

You inched over to him. Cherry was your favorite flavor, a timeless classic that forever held your heart. You were about to ask him for some when he seemed to have read your thoughts and immediately shut you down.

“No, you can’t have any.”

Instantly shocked at his words, your mouth was agape and you crossed your arms with a pout. “What, why?”

Honestly, you couldn’t care less… well maybe you cared a little bit. But being petty and dramatic was more fun however, especially in front of Armin.

“(Y/n), don’t take this the wrong way, but anything you touch immediately disappears.”

Ok, now you cared a lot a bit. “No it doesn’t!”

“Oh, you defended yourself real quick there, huh? Alright, tell me where Sasha’s hairbrush is.” Armin had a smile on his face as he rested his arm on his propped up knee. Sasha lent you her brush one day and it was never seen again. She made you buy her a new one the next day.

Your silence was the answer he needed.

“Maybe you know where Mikasa’s training gloves are?”

Again, more silence. She’d let you borrow them for training and you stupidly set them down when it was windy.

“Oh, wait! My blue sweater? Haven’t seen that in a while and you were the only person I lent it to.”

It was a rather chilly morning one day, so Armin lent you his infamous blue sweater.

Manipulative little bastard.

A slight blush dusted your cheeks. You glared at the blonde and scoffed. “I feel like this isn’t just about chapstick.”

Arming gave out a chuckle. “It is, (y/n). Don’t worry.” With that, Armin rose to his feet and patted your head as he walked along the branch.

Your eyes fluttered in satisfaction when his fingertips rubbed your scalp.

“I can’t even have a little?”

“No.”

Ugh, be like that then.

———

Your squad eventually had to make the journey back home. Riding next to Armin, your horses ran in sync as you both gave each other little glances every few minutes.

“Can I have some of that chapstick now?” Your voice rang over thundering steps of the horses.

“No.” Armin replied.

“But my lips are chapped!”

“Figure it out.” He shouted back.

Oh I will.

———

“Finally home.” You moaned and jumped off your horse and led her to the stables. Your body ached and sleep was all you were craving. It was dark by the time you guys got back and your squad leader gave his appreciation by quickly dismissing everyone.

Maybe I’ll skip dinner. I’m so tired.

Thoughts flowing through your head as you undressed your horse of her gear. Hanging the saddle on a peg, you brushed her mane and fed her some carrots.

“Eat up, Star. My pretty girl.” You cooed, gently running your hand over her nose. Another set of steps disrupted your intimate moment with Star.

Turning around, your eyes softened at Armin, who led his horse over by the reins.

“Hey, stranger.” He teased and began working on his horse. You smiled back at him and it was silent for a few moments, just the sound of the equipment clinking with movement.

You turned to look at him only to give a dry chuckle when you saw him pulling out his stupid cherry chapstick again. The stupid smile never left his face as he applied it.

“Ar-”

“No chapstick, (y/n).”

Damn.

“That wasn’t what I was going to say!”

Armin turned to meet your gaze with raised eyebrows. “What was it then?”

Shit. Think (y/n).

Armin chuckled as the silence answered his question. His hands gently brushed through his horse’s mane. “You’re a bad liar.”

A scoff left your lips. “I don’t like this new attitude of yours.”

Over time, Armin slowly broke out of his shell, no longer the dorky and nervous kid he once was- even though you loved that about him. Now, he was comfortable enough to speak his mind without a second thought, even to you.

“Get used to it, (y/n). Looks like you’ll have to find another way to keep your lips moisturized.”

You didn’t like the snarky look he had on his face. A sudden idea popped into your head. As Armin finished settling his horse for the night, you caught his wrist as he walked by.

A confused look adorning his features when he turned to look at you.

Without thinking twice, you pulled him towards you and stood on your toes. Lifting your head, your lips quickly planted themselves onto his.

You could tell he was caught of guard. His blue eyes widened at the sudden action and a startled whimper escaped him. It was kinda hot honestly. Pulling away, you rubbed your lips together and popped them. “Mmm, gotta love cherry.”

His lips were partly opened and a red rouge covered his face. He still couldn’t believe it.

“U-uh, I-”

“Night, Armin. See ya tomorrow.” You smiled innocently at him before brushing past him to leave.

His hand latched onto your elbow and pulled you back. Raising an eyebrow at him, Armin gripped both your shoulders before pulling you back in, lips meeting yours once more. His back was crouched down a little to meet your height. Now it was your turn to be surprised.

Oh. Oooh

He moaned slightly against your lips when you started kissing back.

The kiss lasted a few seconds before Armin slowly pulled away from you. You both were slightly panting from the adrenaline and the eye contact between you both never broke.

“There.” His hands still gripped your shoulders. “That should last you a bit.” With that, his hand moved just below your ear, his thumb brushing over your jawline.

Armin finally snapped himself of whatever trance you had on him and gave a small smile. “Meet me here tomorrow at noon, that’ll give you plenty of time to sleep in and you can join me in the valley.”

“O-okay.”

Without another word, Armin left the stables. Your mind ran crazy with thoughts. Yes, you kissed him first, but you didn’t expect him to actually want to kiss you again.

How in the world did he play the game better than you? It was your idea-

—————

The sun shines brightly through the curtains of your room. You let out a groan as the stiffness in your muscles were more prominent from yesterdays training.

Looking at the clock on the wall- 8:25 am.

You can still catch breakfast before it ends and relax a bit before meeting up with Armin.

Oh yeah…

What a peculiar night. You honestly thought Armin would either be confused or disgusted when you kissed him. Not flustered. Him kissing you on his own also surprised you. The little manipulators all grown up now.

You got up and threw on some random clothes, heading to the dining hall.

You quietly ate your food, only a few soldiers remained in the dining hall since breakfast was ending soon.

Time slowly passed by, and you decided to take a nap in your bed for another hour or two before leaving. The nap only left you more tired. After changing into a more presentable outfit, a simple button up and a long skirt, you threw your favorite sweater over. The material was soft and the fading but familiar scent was comforting to you.

Your footsteps were slow as you walked to the stables. The soreness in your body along with the tiredness still swirled in your system.

“(Y/n), over here.” Armin called out to you as he led his horse outside his stall. “Perfect timing, I was just getting ready to- is that my sweater?”

Oops. Yes, yes it was.

“Maybe.”

“I thought you said you lost it!”

“I never said I lost it.” You yawned. “Just never wanted to give it back to you.”

Armin chuckled and was a bit surprised at your words, he climbed on his horse and turned down to you, hand extended. “You ready?”

Nodding, you grabbed his hand and he pulled you up. Your legs straddled the horse and your hand hesitantly grazed his waist. It wasn’t until Armin flicked the reigns and the horse quickly trotted forward that you decided to wrap your arms tightly around his waist as he navigated through the towns.

“You good there?” He joked and placed his hand on top of your clasped ones that pressed against his abdomen.

—————

“You look nice in my sweater.” Armin commented, trekking his fingers gently through your scalp.

The warm breeze swayed the grass and wildflowers surrounding you. The meadow Armin took you to was beautiful this time of year.

Your head currently rested on his thigh. Armin was sat against a willow tree, a book in his other hand. Every so often, his hand would leave your head to turn the page and gently return.

“It’s mine now.” You mumbled through closed eyes. Armin insisted you try to nap again while he read. However, no one brought up the situation from last night. At the moment it almost seemed like it never happens. No one acknowledged it.

“Of course it is.” He said with a smile before taking his hand away from your head. He shifted and buried his hand in the pocket of his trousers. His leg raised your head slightly as he moved. “Sorry, I just can’t- dammit where is it?”

You craned your neck to see his agitated face. “What happened?”

“I can’t find my chapstick.” He muttered with a frown.

A giggle erupted from your mouth, making him look at you. “And you say I lose stuff?”

“Shut up.” He muttered.

You both returned to your original positions with you head still resting on his lap. The breeze continued to blow and you glanced at Armin to see the tips of his blonde hair blow across his face. The shorter hair really suited him.

You let out a small sigh and pulled the sweater tighter around your frame. Reaching into the small pocket, you pulled something out.

Uncapping it, you gently applied it to your lips and didn’t miss the way Armin was staring at you dumbfounded. The label was clearly a different color than his. No, this one was yours. All yours.

“It’s strawberry and before you ask- no you can’t have any. I wouldn’t want you to lose this one too.” A devilish smirk crossed your face. Payback was a bitch. If he could be petty, so could you.

Armin sat back and mumbled something incoherent. His book was now discarded to the side and his arms were crossed with a pout. Memories of last night flooded his thoughts.

The way he held you. The way he looked at you. How you tasted.

You looked up at him with innocent eyes and rubbed the substance coating your lips together. He was staring at you.

You let out a small laugh as he pulled your body up and lowered himself down closer to you. You didn’t miss the way his eyes stared into yours before darting to your lips, then back to your eyes. He was so close. Then as if he decided it was right, Armin’s lips were encasing yours once more.

You gave a small sigh into the kiss and your fingers raked through his blonde hair.

Armin’s tongue gently swiped against your bottom lip and before you could open your mouth for more, he pulled away.

“You’re right.” He said and rubbed his own lips together. “Cherry does taste better.”

You were a little disappointed at the sudden break in contact. Sitting your body up, you faced him. “We can get you more when we head back into town.” You offered and avoided your gaze.

Maybe he was just getting payback for last night?

Armin rolled his eyes and pulled you back towards him. “Yeah that sounds good, but I like this option better.”

And he kissed you again. More passionately this time.

He suddenly pulled your body against his so you were fully sat in his lap, emitting a small squeal from you. Your legs curled into his side and his hands were placed at your waist, thumb brushing your hip.

“Thank you for coming with me.” He mumbled against your lips.

“Just take me out and we’ll call it even.” You replied, your arm wrapping around his neck.

“Okay.”

——

Taglist: @cullenswife

(Lmk if you wanna be added <3)

[riordanness]

— dear reader - [r.singh]

wordcount: 0.4K

requested: yes! anonymous

warnings: none

“Ugh!” I throw my pencil onto Ravi’s desk in frustration, resting my chin on both my fists and my elbows sit dejectedly on the wood. “Who the hell decided inventing maths was a good plan?”

Ravi, who finished his homework an hour ago, is sprawled on his bed reading a comic book.

“Dunno,” he answers, not really listening. “Just quit already.”

I roll my eyes. “I can’t just stop doing my homework because it’s difficult. That’s stupid.”

“You’re stupid,” he teases.

I ignore him. “You could always let me finish this in peace and stop bothering me; if you hadn’t been so annoying earlier I’d be done by now.”

“That’s not true. You always take forever to finish your homework.” I hear Ravi slap his comic shut. He walks over to me, slinging his arms over my shoulders. “Please come hang out with me,” he almost whines in my ear.

“I can’t!” I insist, though I would much rather watch tv with Ravi than do algebra right now.

“Please, sweetheart,” he begs. “I haven’t seen you in ages.”

“I was here yesterday.”

“That’s ages.” Ravi spins my, his, chair around, and kneels in between my legs, his forearms resting on my thighs. His brown eyes stare up at me pleadingly.

It’s hard to resist his puppy dog eyes. Especially when I’m tired and sick of homework and all I want is to cuddle in his arms and watch our favourite show together. We’re falling behind on the episodes.

“I’ll give you as many kisses as you want?” Ravi says. “Or else none at all until tomorrow. Just come and let me hold you.”

My stomach swirls a little at his words. No matter how many times Ravi says something adorable like that, I still act like a lovesick idiot. I might be his girlfriend, but I have the biggest crush on Ravi Singh.

I sigh, long and loud for dramatic effect. “Fine.”

“Yes!” Ravi cheers and gives me a high five. He drags me onto his bed and into his arms, and honestly? I couldn’t care less about my algebra homework right now.

[skauni]

Opposites Attract: Phillip Graves x Fem!Pre-K Teacher!Reader

It’s been a week since you moved to this apartment. You were in apartment 17C, and honestly, you didn’t know anyone was in apartment 16C until you saw him sitting in front of his door muttering to himself because his key broke off in the lock.

“Everything OK?” You asked, walking over, he looked up and waved his hand. “Everything’s fine, I’m just waiting here for a locksmith; my key broke off in the damn—” “Darn,” you swiftly corrected his language out of habit. He snorted in amusement at the correction. “Darn, doorknob.” He finished. “Are you new?” You asked, he shook his head. “No, I’ve just been on deployment for a while.”

You paused. Taking in the information. “Oh, you’re military? What rank?” He proudly answered that question. “Commander.” You simply nodded. “Would you like company while you wait, Mr. …?” You trailed off, he took the hint. “Graves. My name is Philip Graves.” He said. “And sure, I could use some company Mrs. ..?” You chuckled as he used your tactic. “Miss, I’m not married. And I’m Y/N. But my students call me ‘Ms. Y/L/N’.”

Philip thought on that a moment. “Students? So you’re a teacher, huh?” You nodded. “I teach Pre-K.” He chuckled. “That explains the curse word correction…” he commented lightheartedly, you scratched the back of your head. “Sorry—it’s honestly a habit I can’t break at this point, I’ve been teaching Pre-K for 2 years.” Philip nods. “It’s alright, I thought it was funny, a bit cute too that you corrected it.” He teased. You blushed in embarrassment.

“Sh-Shut up!” You said, he chuckled softly and patted the space on the doormat beside him. You paused for a second before sitting beside him. “So how’d you break the key off? Did you put it in the right way?” Philip just shrugged. “I probably did. I’m too tired to remember what the fuck—“ you cut him off and correct him. “Frick.” He chuckled again “—frick, I did.” You nodded.

There was a moment of silence before you got up after checking your phone. “It’s almost 10PM, I’d better get going to make sure I’m not tired during my class tomorrow. Bye, Philip!” You waved. Philip waved back as you went into your apartment. You couldn’t get to sleep for the next 30 minutes because all you could think about was his stupidly charming grin and piercing blue eyes though.

A few weeks later you ran into him again, this time at the store as you looked for things for arts and crafts time for your class to buy. He saw you reaching for some coloring packets on the top shelf so he came up behind you and got them down for you. “There you go, Ms. Y/L/N.” He said. You flushed red and took the item from his hand. “Thank you, Mr. Graves..” You murmured flusteredly.

Over the next week you and Philip got to know each other, and before you knew it, 2 months had gone by and you two started dating. Today, after coming home from work at the pre school, you saw Philip standing by your door with a duffel bag. Uniform on and stubble shaved. “Deployment?” You sighed out softly. He nodded. “Sorry doll… got the call, I have to go in. You know?” He said. You nodded. “I understand, I’ll be waiting for you to come back.”

When you said that he gave you that stupid, charming grin he always seemed to have for you. He pushed off the wall and walked up to you. Softly tilting your chin up as he kissed you tenderly. “Bye, Doll.. love you.” He said. “Love you too, Commander.” You teased. He chuckled and turned, walking down the stairwell. His footsteps fading with the echoes as he left to catch his flight back to the base.

[ikeromantic]

To Comfort a Beast

A Chevalier Michel fanfiction. Approx. 4000 words. This scene takes place in Chapter 20 of the main route and is told from Chevalier’s POV. Part 18 of a series.

Chapter List

The maids were caught by surprise when Chevalier woke shortly after sunrise and sent them scurrying on errands. He’d slept only a few hours and had no patience. He sent one running with a message as he dressed for the day. 

Four Eyes arrived moments later, though he didn’t look rushed. He looked the same as always. Stern. Tired. Prepared. But he wasn’t ready for Chevalier’s request. “A round table tomorrow?” His eyes widened. 

“Prepare it.”

“With due respect, Prince Chevalier, a round table is only called when -”

The prince narrowed his eyes, knowing full well the effect of his gaze. 

Four Eyes gave a slight bow. “I assume there is more at work here than I am aware. It will be done.” He left with a dark eyed glance back that revealed his unspoken worries. 

Chevalier was tempted to go back to bed, but there was more yet to do. The smell of breakfast floating up from the dining room and through the hall. But food was not on the prince’s mind. 

A figure slouched against a colonnade, straightening as Chevalier yawned. “Yo. I see you still have a sour look on your face in the mornings. I guess some things never change.” Black smirked, looking entirely too pleased with himself and his observation.

“What do you want?” He hadn’t expected his brother to stalk his chambers like this. But it saved him the trouble of creating an encounter later at least.

“I’m sure you at least have a guess.” Black blocked the passage with his bulk, placing himself in the way as usual. “I’ll get right to the point. Did you invite me to that gathering yesterday so I could hear the conversation?”

“Indeed. I take it you were able to grasp that Obsidian is using the anti-war faction in a plot to invade our kingdom.” He sighed. “Sooner or later, war with Obsidian will break out.” This was the point of contention they always returned to. Optimism was not a diplomatic policy.

“And that’s why we need to act first, before they finish their new weapon?” Black’s skepticism tinged his words, though less heavily than before. It said everything he didn’t want to state allowed. That the only proof of this weapon was in Chevalier’s reports. That he didn’t trust his elder brother. That he believed Chevalier wanted a war, regardless of facts.

“If you understand that much, then I’m going to hold a roundtable meeting at once.” Chevalier moved to step past his brother, but Black held out an arm to block him again. His jaw tensed with unfeigned annoyance.

“Is what you said yesterday true?” There was an unexpected intensity in those amber depths. 

Chevalier raised a brow, pure ice in his gaze. “Which part?”

“I will settle things with Obsidian and bring peace to Rhodolite without fail. And I will protect our kingdom so that your loved ones can find true happiness. That part.” Black didn’t budge, didn’t flinch.

“The vow of a royal is absolute. I’m sure you know that too.” Chev felt that was all the answer his brother needed. 

Black nodded after a moment, not breaking his gaze. “I suppose I know that. But it’s not like you.” He studied Chev as if he might find answers in the slight tilt of his chin, the twist of his lips, or the arch of his brow. “Honestly, I thought you were going to purge the anti-war faction whether or not Emma tried to stop you.” Black paused again, thoughtful. “That’s the kind of person you are, right?”

Chevalier did not deign to respond. Let his actions speak. If his fool brothers were too stupid to understand, mere words would not change that.

“Except . . . yesterday. You met the people halfway. For once you actually looked after them and not just the kingdom.”

“So?” Chev felt his patience giving way. He was too tired for this nonsense. Black would trust him in this. There was no other option. Chevalier had made sure of it. 

“I was just wondering. Why the sudden change of heart?” A slight grin lifted one corner of his mouth.

Chevalier snorted. “Don’t make such ridiculous assumptions about me. Nothing has changed.” Only . . . that wasn’t really true. He could feel it in his chest. The inexplicable warmth. A thaw in the wall of ice that guarded his mind from the passions of his heart.

It was Black’s turn to snort in disbelief. “That’s not true.” He grinned now, a wide, toothy, annoying smile. “It seemed pretty obvious to me that you were factoring in the Belle stopping you all along.”

He was surprised by the observation, enough so that his eyes widened, though he stifled any other response.

“I knew it. Your heeding the Belle’s proposal, and me changing my mind when I saw you engaging with the people. You planned it all along.” Black leaned forward, still smiling. “Or am I wrong?”

Chevalier did not bother to hide a smirk. He did not want to admit to anything, not to himself or to anyone else. Arrogance was an excellent shield.

“Just this once, you’ve got me dancing in the palm of your hand.” Black’s arm dropped, no longer barring his way, though he did not step aside. “But I still think you’ve changed.” 

“Oh?” Chev held onto his expression, answering with a non-committal question. If it was obvious enough for Black, who else had noticed? What was he doing differently to give away his affections? It bothered him, but he could not let that show.

The bright sun found a gap in the morning clouds and for a moment, set the hallway glowing. The two princes stood facing each other, haloed, still. Dark and light, opposing forces set against one another in practice if not in purpose. The sun passed again behind the clouds, and the moment passed.

Black tapped his chest. “Once, you wouldn’t have even considered winning me or the anti-war faction over. You would’ve chosen a sure-fire path rather than one with even the slightest uncertainty in it. You, of all people, should’ve been able to ignore the voices of others and press forward to war, even if you had to force a situation where noone could really say no. Right?”

His brother wasn’t wrong. That was the most efficient route. And yet, this time, Chevalier had not chosen the most direct plan. He held his silence and his smile.

“But instead, you took the risk of trying to persuade me and the anti-war faction. Not only was there an element of uncertainty to it, it also took time. Yet you still chose the path of compromise. Why? Is it because of Emma’s influence?” Black’s gaze challenged him now, daring him to admit to this one weakness. This one gap in his armor.

“I was simply in the mood to do it that way.” A sorry attempt at an excuse, and one that Black would see through easily. A child could. That was the best Chevalier could give. A confession was out of reach, and he did not have time to create a better lie. 

Black chuckled. “It’s easier to talk to you when you’re like this.”

“Stop spouting nonsense.” Chevalier drew himself up. He did not want to consider what ‘like this’ meant. “I only want one answer from you.”

“Yeah yeah. Impatient, aren’t you?” The laughter left his face as he went on. “Regardless of how you got to this point, you’ve come to see the people through Emma. I think our voices can reach you now too.” Black’s eyes were hard, his gaze sharp. “How is tomorrow for the second round table meeting?”

“I’ve already arranged it with Four Eyes.” Back on safe ground, back to the plan. A step forward, if at a personal cost. 

Black’s mouth opened in surprise, then shifted to a fierce smile. “Damn you’re fast. Well, see you tomorrow then.” He patted Chevalier’s arm, then turned and left. 

Chev watched him go, his sense of triumph mixed with unease. 

He’d intended to go to the dining room, but his feet led him instead to Emma’s room. He could hear her inside, twittering away at her attendant. Chevalier opened the door. 

Emma jumped a little in surprise, causing Rio to drop the clip he was trying to pin her hair in place with. “Prince! Chevalier! Umm. Good morning!”

“I believe it’s princely courtesy to knock?” Rio stepped between the Belle and the prince. The smile on his lips did not reach his eyes. 

“Rio! It’s fine. Prince Chevalier is welcome any time he chooses.” She stepped past her attendant, giving his arm a reassuring pat. 

Chev regarded the blonde over the top of her head. There was warning in those sea blue eyes, an unexpected ferocity. “Go.”

The attendant looked to Emma rather than immediately obeying. Loyalty was an admirable trait, but the dog took it too far. 

She smiled at him. “It’s really ok. You can go. I’ll put my hair up later.”

Rio nodded after a moment. “I won’t be far if you need anything.” Then he stepped out and shut the door behind him. 

Chevalier did not ask. He knew the look of a man in love, afterall. He guided Emma to the couch and sat down. She sat primly at the edge beside him, clearly unsure what his presence this early in the morning portended.

“So. Have you . . . had breakfast . . . or . . .”

“No.” Chev pulled her to his side. Her loose hair tickled against his neck. She was warm and soft. He leaned down, nuzzling the crook of her neck, inhaling the scent of her. 

Emma let out a surprised breath, then snuggled closer. 

Chevalier wished he could spend the day like this. A silly, fatuous dream. The next task needed doing. He had to finish preparing for the round table. There was no rest for royalty. Duty before all. Still. He let himself luxuriate for a moment longer. 

***

The meeting took place as planned the following day. It was tense as the princes discussed the situation. The strategies and costs. Emma said nothing, her face pale, lips pressed to a firm line as she listened.

Chevalier knew she would handle herself, no matter today’s outcome. His faith in her surprised him, or it should have. 

Black spoke up. “Yesterday, I spoke with my faction. All of us understand the importance of a peace treaty with Obsidian. We all know what is at stake.” He paused and glanced meaningfully at his brothers. “If you say you’re going to stand on the battlefield carrying the wishes of the people, we can’t turn our backs on you, however much we may disagree with your methods.”

After a long moment, Yves, Jin, and Licht nodded their agreement.

Sariel looked less surprised than Emma. Her eyes went wide at the unexpected accord. She still said nothing, though, only took notes. 

“Good. Then let’s talk specifics. Knowing you, you’ve already got a plan, right?” Black’s brow went up, a teasing challenge. He knew the outcome was inevitable, but couldn’t resist an opportunity to poke.

Chevalier smiled thinly. “Naturally.” He motioned for Nokto to spread the map onto the table. “As I’ve said before, the purpose of this war is to stand up to the threat that Obsidian poses, before they overrun us with their new weapons. We need to make a treaty and stabilize the relationship between our two countries.” His eyes traced the border they shared, running through the needed troops, weapons, supplies . . .

“Ideally, we would settle things through negotiations, but chances are, that’s impossible,” Chevalier continued.

“Yeah, we’ve tried that before,” Clavis added, “They always brush us off completely.”

Leon nodded. “I know we’re going to have to take a more forceful approach to make the peace treaty happen.” His voice made clear that he still expected the peace treaty to be the ultimate outcome. “But our military strength alone is no match for Obsidian. How do we convince Benitoite and Jade to help us?”

“We’ve already taken measures to ensure their cooperation.” Chev gestured toward those countries on the map. Allies of convenience. This action would turn them into more. He looked to Nokto.

“Everyone here probably already knows that the anti-war faction has ties to Obsidian, but you may not know this.” He grinned cheerfully. “It seems Obsidian is also running an illegal arms trade using the faction.”

“Huh. This is the first I’ve heard of it,” Black’s brows drew down. “How did you come by this information?”

“The night before the purge, I sent out a scout. He stumbled across the scene of a weapons deal. The scout lost his life before I returned from the purge, but he brought proof, which I obtained.” Chevalier’s gaze found Emma across the table. “Belle, this is what the man you looked after did for us.”

“Oh! That was the letter with the code?” She gripped her pen tightly, remembering her sadness at the scout’s death. She did not let it overwhelm her. 

“Yes.” He looked back to his brothers. “Using the scout’s information as a starting point, I had the Clown look into the particulars.”

“And I discovered the problem doesn’t just affect our country,” Nokto broke in, sounding excited. “We found out that the same thing is happening in Jade and Benitoite. Weapons smuggling to rebel forces.”

Yves looked aghast. “What? That’s - that’s huge.” 

“It sure is,” Nokto replied smugly. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Obsidian was planning to take control of each country by arming its respective rebels. Destabilizing them and then just stepping in.” He shrugged. “It’s basically a declaration of war against the three countries. So I’ve been negotiating with the other two, with some success.”

Jin shook his head, still stunned. “I guess that’s taken care of then.”

“King Highness has secretly been working hard to create a situation that would compel all of you to agree to war with Obsidian.” Nokto gave Chevalier a wink.

This was the problem with idiots for allies, thought Chev. They had to peacock. Still, he was getting the needed work done. That was the important thing.

“I knew it,” Leon fixed him with a knowing look.

Yves and Licht looked resigned. 

“Currently, Obsidian is still at war with nations other than Rhodolite, Jade, and Benitoite. They’re at a deadlock on their other fronts, splitting their forces. That is why we must act now, while they’re not anticipating reinforcements. It is time for our three nations to join forces and invade Obsidian.” Chevalier fixed his brothers with his icy gaze, each in turn. They had to understand the stakes and the strategy. 

“Where do you plan to invade,” Licht asked, sounding almost bored.

Chevalier pointed to a region on the map. “There are facilities here in the southwest where new weapons are being developed and produced. By taking control of the two main facilities located here and here -” He pointed to their respective locations, “we will gain the upper hand.”

“You’re saying we will have the facilities developing Obsidian’s weapons under our control?” Licht’s voice was still flat and uninflected. He might have been asking about the weather. 

“Yes.” Chevalier replied.

“They certainly could become bargaining chips,” Leon agreed.

“Our aim in this war isn’t to expand our own territory. We want the peace treaty, and nothing more.” Chevalier fixed his gaze on Leon for a moment before turning back to the map. “After we’ve taken the facilities, we’ll enter negotiations, and then -” He paused, his eyes drawn toward Emma. “Belle, be prepared to choose a king.” 

He knew Obsidian would not agree to a treaty of princes. The lack of a king would be a pretext to doom the talks, to extend them until Obsidian once again held the upper hand. That could not be allowed to happen. Prepared or not, the Belle must make a choice. It should worry him, but he felt at peace. Emma would make the right decision. He trusted her.

“What?” Her answer was involuntary, more a gasp of surprise than a word.

“It is impossible for a treaty to be signed without the consent of the king.” Chev let the weight of his words sink in for her. 

After a moment, she tilted her chin in acknowledgement. “I understand. I’ll keep that in mind.”

Chevalier found himself smiling, proud of her measured, almost regal, reaction. He turned back to his brothers and drew his sword. “Now, let us decide.” He set his sword upon the table in a gesture as old as Rhodolite. In this chamber, a bared blade was a vote for war. 

“Whether I agree with this or not, it’s a bit late to say no after the discussion has come so far,” Clavis said with a laugh. He set his blade on the table as well.

Nokto nodded. “I agree. I’ve been making all kinds of behind the scenes preparations so no one can refuse. King Highness plays dirty. Be a shame for all of that effort to go to waste.” His sword followed.

“I guess. But we’ll have to go to war sooner or later anyway, right? So I’ve got no objections.” Luke levered his greatsword onto the old, scarred wood of the table beside the others.

“Same.” Licht set his sword down as well. 

Yves sighed, looking at the tally. “If we’re drawing our swords for the sake of the people, I suppose I have no objections either.” His bare blade joined his brothers’.

Jin studied Leon’s face for a long moment. If anyone would gainsay this action now, it would be him, thought Chevalier. But no. He joined the others, placing his sword upon the table.

That left only one. Leon’s expression was grim. “If we do this, we have to win.”

“I’ve never lost a battle.” This was no empty boast, only a statement of fact. Chevalier waited.

“That’s true.” Leon slowly drew his sword, letting his gaze trail along the sharp edge as if seeing the blood that would soon stain it. He placed it on the table with the others. 

Sariel watched, expressionless. “A unanimous vote. Rhodolite will go to war.” 

The tension in the room eased as the decision was announced. The eight princes were focused now, aligned in their goal. Chevalier did not let himself relax. This was only the beginning. “Belle,” he called, as his brothers filed out. 

“Yes, Prince Chevalier?”

“Come to my office later.” 

She looked surprised but bowed her head in acquiescence. “Alright.”

Chevalier’s gaze lingered on her as she left. She would need to be handled as deftly as his brethren. If he did not make arrangements for her, he expected she would make them herself - as she had during the purge. 

***

“I’m coming in,” Emma announced as she stepped into the office. Warm afternoon light washed the room, painting her hair and cheeks with glimmers of gold. 

Chevalier pretended to be engrossed in studying reports, as if he did not see her come in. As if he did not witness her beauty, always breathtaking but somehow more so each day. Impossible of course. Ridiculous even. Yet his heart insisted it was true even as his head argued the opposite. 

He finally looked up as she closed the door behind her, catching a flicker of heat in her gaze, a trace of red in her cheeks. Chev laughed softly, knowing exactly what crossed her mind. “Your face still shouts your thoughts loud and clear.”

“Ahem. What did you want to see me for?” The Belle held onto her dignity as best she could, though she needed no such defenses when alone with him. She sat down across the desk and waited.

Chevalier set the reports aside. “As you heard this morning, we are going to war soon. Because it will be an all-out war, we princes will be dispatched to the battlefield. What will you do?” 

“About what?”

“Will you join us? Or do you plan to stay at the palace?” Chevalier already knew what she would say. She was afraid, but the steel in her would not bend so easily.

The Belle considered for a moment, weighing her options. “Is it possible that I could help on the battlefield, in some way?”

“That shouldn’t be a problem. However,” Chev held her gaze, “the skirmish from before will seem like nothing compared to the devastation of the upcoming battles. It will be a real war, with hundreds of thousands of knights clashing on the battlefield. What awaits you is a place even more tragic than the wasteland that caused you heartbreak before.”

Emma blinked back a tear, remembering the dead and wounded. Each one touched her deeply, and left a mark on her soul.

“Will you still go, knowing that?”

“Yes. Even knowing all of that, I want to go.” She was afraid. He could see that, but she was unwavering in her determination to do what she believed was right. “It’s so that I can learn all I possibly can about the princes, and then choose a king to carry this country forward.” 

Chevalier nodded. As he’d expected. 

She gave him a small, tremulous smile. “I can treat the injured. I remember how, from last time. I’ll show you how useful I can be.”

“You understand that though you are Belle, on the battlefield, you’re just an ordinary citizen. No matter how much danger you are in, no one will come to save you.” This was a warning she needed to hear. A last chance to back out. He almost smiled, expecting the response he could read so easily in her body language.

“Yes. I’ll do everything I can to protect myself,” Emma replied.

Chevalier couldn’t help but chuckle. It was serious, and yet he knew grown men more frightened than she was. “You’ve got quite the backbone.” He stood and walked around the desk. “I’ve already run it by the logistic support medical unit. You’ll be working with them.”

Her eyes widened with surprise. “You knew from the beginning that I’d choose to go to the battlefield?”

“There is no way a woman with as strong a sense of responsibility as you would wait quietly here in the palace.” He ruffled her hair affectionately. “And, of course, I can read the mind of a simpleton, no?”

She laughed, leaning into his touch.

“Just remember one thing.” He bent down, wrapping his arms around her. 

“Ah! Y-yes?” She stammered.

“In this war, I’ll be taking command. Therefore, on the battlefield, you belong to the second prince.” He nuzzled her neck, finding a spot that was rapidly becoming his favorite to kiss. He could feel the rabbit-fast pulse beneath his lips. “Dying would be foolish. Even getting hurt would be a transgression.”

“O-of course. I have no i-intention of letting either one happen.” 

Chevalier let his teeth graze her skin, a gentle lovebite. 

Her pulse sped in a quick-trip beat. She let out a pleased gasp that made him smile. “Anyone who violates the decree of a prince will be punished,” he murmured, pressing his lips to her sweet skin again. She smelled of honeysuckle, he thought, or tea rose. Intoxicating. “If that happens, I’ll have to give you a real bite next time. Understand?”

It was a ludicrous threat. Foolish. But with her, he could be. He could let himself be something other than perfect. Something other than reason and logic. He could feel. 

“If you really do bite me, you’re going to be bitten back,” she responded, her heated voice a warning and a promise.

Chevalier leaned back, studying her face. Color was high in her cheeks, and her eyes sparked. He smirked. “You always seem happy to be tormented.”

“I don’t think tormented is quite the right word.” She brushed her fingertips over the fading red mark on her neck.

He laughed again. “No matter. Just . . . do what you need to do on the battlefield, no matter what happens.”

“I understand.”

“Don’t disappoint me.” He squeezed her tight for a moment, then let her go.

Emma’s expression was serious as she answered. “I won’t.” She laid a hand on his shoulder, squeezing gently as if to reassure him. Another silly gestured, but it warmed his heart. Who had ever bothered to comfort a beast? “Prince Chevalier. You be careful too.”

He scoffed, as if she had not just touched his heart. “The Brutal Beast hasn’t grown so soft that you need to worry about him.” Chevalier took her in his arms again, lifting her from the seat to pull her close.

She wrapped her arms around him and held him back. 

They stayed like that until the last of the afternoon light died in a burst of crimson and gold.