#hope you enjoyed your birthday gift Ash!

[adverbian]

That Certain Night

a birthday fic for @voluptatiscausa

Three nights during wartime, and one night after.

(Explicit; 8670 words; 4/4 chapters, complete; as always, please see AO3 tags for content notes)

He would take one night. He would take one hour. Even if this was only pity, he would grasp it with both hands and hold it like joy. Even if it turned to dust and ashes on his tongue in the morning, he would keep the memory of sweetness.

“Just for tonight,” he murmured, thumb stroking Aziraphale’s. “No one ever has to know.”

Read “That Certain Night” on AO3

Happy birthday, @voluptatiscausa . I can’t adequately describe what a gift it is to know you and how much your friendship means; how much wonder and delight, insight and wisdom, beauty and healing, kindness and laughter (and narratively-significant stone fruits), you’ve brought to my life. And to this fandom, and to the whole world. I wish you every joy of the next year, and every year.

For your birthday, here is some angst and pining and smut and feelings. I hope that you enjoy it.

Deep thanks to amazing beta readers @gaiaseyes451 and @hakunahistata , whose kind, insightful suggestions were absolutely transformative.

Thanks also to @goodomensafterdark for unwavering support!

(Cover image adapted from "Was that a dream by Cedric Le Borgne" by Pear-on-willow, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Description, from Wikimedia Commons: “An illuminated wire sculpture of a nightingale, displayed in London's Berkeley Square as part of Lumiere London 2018, an art festival. The sculpture and the accompanying soundtrack 'A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square' formed an art installation titled 'Was that a dream?' by a French artist Cédric Le Borgne.”)

[lizzieislife94x]

This Girl (e.o)

Requested <3

 LizzieG!PxFem Reader

As always requests are open babes hope yall enjoy 😉  again damn i say requests are open and all feedback welcomed ALOT haha) all feed welcomed good or bad 

Y/ns POV: 

I look at my dress in the mirror happy with how I look I groan when I hear my girlfriend yelling for me to hurry up "I'm coming baby chill" I say as I head downstairs as she frowns and grabs my waist kissing me a few times "god I don't know how it takes you so long to get ready but damn you look good" she whispers against my lips making me smile "I didn't take that long youre just a drama queen honey and thank you" I say giving her a quick kiss as I grab my purse and head out to the car looking over my shoulder innocently "well arnt you coming baby whats taking so long" she shakes her head and laughs as she grabs the car keys and follows me out gently slapping my ass, we get into the car and make our way to lizzies sisters house for their birthday party we listen to music as lizzie rests her hand on my thigh it's something she does everytime we're in the car I think it's a comfort thing for her and it quickly became a comfort thing for me even if we're fighting and end up in the car she always holds onto my thigh and I love it, before I know it we're outside MKs house "you ready baby" I nod and smile looking at lizzie "oh course do you have our gift" she points to the trunk and smiles as we make our way inside as mk and Ashley greet us "oh my goshhh hey you guys are here!" They say hugging us both tight "lizzie some of your old friends are in there waiting to catch up" I pout as she looks super happy whenever she's around any of her friends She doesn't pay me any attention she's to busy talking goddddd this sucks "I'm going to get a drink" I say walking to the drinks area grabbing a vodka and mixer and a beer for lizzie I make my way back into the party and over to lizzie with her friends "here you go baby" I smile handing her a drink "hey guys this is my girlfriend y/n, y/n this is the old gang" I smile and say hello to everyone before they fall back into a comfortable conversation forgetting I'm here I rest my hand on her lower back rubbing gently moving my hand to her ass leaving a gently squeeze she leans over and whispers in my ear "y/n stop it" i furrow my brows and take my hand off her ass after a few mins I smirk and pretend I need to get another drink I purposely squeeze past lizzie making sure I grind my ass right against her member I hear her groan as she grabs my waist moving me out the way not breaking the conversation. 

It's been an hour and a half they're still laughing and talking I decided if lizzie won't pay me any attention and at least dance with me ill go Dance with someone who does want to dance with me I look fucking amazing tonight and she's spent the full night with her friends not saying a word to me I don't care she's with her friends but she could have included me she could have wrapped her arm around me or included me in the conversation or filled me in about whatever they where talking about but no she ignores me and tells me not to touch her ass which she wouldn't mind in any other situation and I'm pissed, I spot a cute guy talking to Ashley and walk over "hey Ash mind if I steal this cutie for a dance?" She looks at me confused but agrees "hey I'm y/n let's dance" he smirks and nods as I lead him to the dance floor "I'm Eric by the way" I quickly wrap my arms around him as we sway to the calm music he rests his hands on my lower waist as the song changes to S&M by Rihanna making me scream "oh mygod I loveeeeee this song" I quickly start to dance in time with the music letting it consume me I sway my hips sexually as I grind against Eric I feel him grind against me holding my waist I lift my arms as I continue to dance I look up and see lizzies eyes burning into me I give her a sweet innocent smile before turning my attention back to dancing against Eric "you wanna get out of here" I hear him moan into my ear i turn to face him "no thank you I'm just looking dance" he looks away embarrassed as he excuses himself I think I got him a little hot and bothered I laugh and go grab another drink, as I down it in one I make my way to the dance floor and dance alone not for long though an older looking guy comes over to dance with me not old but in a hot older way so I happily dance with him everytime I look over at lizzie her eyes are burning into me but I don't even care she couldn't even spare a few minutes to dance so why not dance with people that want to dance with me, I feel him wrap his arms around my waist pulling me tight against him as he sways grinding into me I feel someone pull me away from the guy and look up to see lizzie "oh hey baby so you can actually pull yourself away from your friends oh my god" I say sarcastically as I roll my eyes letting her know I'm pissed she quickly pulls me out of the house into the car. 

"Really y/n dry fucking random guys" I roll my eyes at her "lizzie you never said 2 words to me the full the night you didn't even include me in the conversation you didn't even hold me while you where talking you couldn't spare 2 fucking minutes to dance with your girlfriend so I found people who actually wanted to dance with me you made me feel like shit we came to your sisters party together to have fun and you fucking ditched me 60 seconds after we arrived" I say louldy letting out an annoyed groan crossing my arms leaning back into my seat "no y/n they wanted you to grind against there dicks so they could get off" i turn away as she starts the car I could tell she's full of jealousy but she should have paid me a little attention I feel her hand on my thigh as we drive off after a few seconds her hand travelles up my thigh as I feel shivers run over my body before I know it she's teasing my clit through my panties I can't help but close my eyes and moan "take the panties off now" she growls as I pull my dress up and remove my panties in one swift movement her hand automatically goes back to my now dripping cunt fuck "mhhh baby" I moan "im still fucking pissed at you but fuck that feels good"  i whisper moan as her fingers run through my wet folds to my entrance and in one quick movement she slams 3 fingers deep inside me I grip the seat and let out a loud scream of pleasure as she thrusts her fingers faster her attention never leaving the road "so close baby oh fuck" I cry out as she smirks she curls her fingers perfectly as she repeatedly hits my gspot I clamp my legs trapping her hand "legs open" she commands I instantly open them wide as she continues her finger pounding I feel my orgasm about to ruin me as she stops all movement "oh no honey you don't get to cum till I say so you've been a bad girl" I pant and glare at her "please lizzie I need to cum you have a cheek to punish me" I whine as she smirks sliding her fingers out my pulsing cunt "so fucking wet slut,suck" she says as she pushes her 3 fingers into my mouth I moan and suck them clean and smirk when I hear her moan, I look down at her bulge almost bursting from her pants and moan she removes her fingers from my mouth as my spit comes dripping out attached to her fingers I don't know how she's doing this and driving perfectly "oh my fucking god!!!!" I squeal as her fingers slam back inside my greedy cunt I open my legs wider as she thrusts her fingers slowly knowing fine well its torturing me "faster baby please I need to cum lizzie please" I whimper "my sweet babygirl I said no" she laughs and thrusts a little faster as my head falls back pants and moans leaving my mouth I roll my hips to her pace and moan as my orgasm is so close she must feel my walls tighten because she stopped again "naughty girl think I can't tell when your gonna cum baby I know your pussy better than you" her words make me feel things as I sigh in frustration I feel tears stinging my eyes as my orgasm is denied again "baby please please please I need to cum" I say looking at her tears running down my cheeks her fingers still deep inside me "sweet baby should have thought about that before grinding that perfect ass against random men"

I lean my head against her shoulder waiting for this ride to be over every once in a while her fingers thrust driving me wild finally we're home and she pulls her fingers out getting closer to me as she sucks my juices from her fingers "oh fuck" I moan as she smirks getting out of the car I follow behind her as we head up to our bedroom she slams me against the door as she rips my dress off in one swift movement leaving me completely naked as I didn't wear a bra "mmmh they might have got a few hip sways from you but they'll never get to see this sight they'll never get to touch you or make you feel amazing" she hisses into my ear as a moan leaves my lips "please daddy I need you" I say seductively as I unbutton her pants and push them down along with her boxers I grab her dick and rub my hand up and down her shaft as she moans into my neck spinning me in one fast motion so my front is pressed against the door she quickly kicks her pants and boxers away followed by her top as her hands rub my ass "mmmh baby please I need you" I whimper as she spreads my legs rubbing her tip against my entrance "you ready princess" she whispers making me smile "I'm ready baby" before I know it she slams deep inside me pushing me into the door both of us moaning her moans in my ear turning me on more "shit daddy so..fucking big" I whimper as she starts to thrust her hips slowly but hard hitting every spot inside me my eyes roll as my orgasm approaches fast "please daddy can I cum" I beg as she starts to thrust faster "you can cum baby but I'm not stopping we have a long amazing tiring night ahead of us" she groans as she bites my ear and my orgasm smashes over me making my legs shake uncontrollably she smirks and sucks on my sweet spot her thrusts getting faster and harder she continues to brutally fuck my cunt for 10 more minutes before she fills me with her cum both our sweaty bodies pressed together panting "mmmh fuck princess 3 times before I came once" I giggle as she picks me up taking me to the bed throwing me down gently. 

"YES YES YES YES" I scream as I bounce up and down on lizzies dick my god knows how many orgasm crashing over me I look into lizzies eyes knowing she's close so I continue to bounce harder and faster both us moaning eachothers names never breaking eye contact "fuck princess I'm gonna cum" she moans biting her lip as I grind on her the way she likes after a few seconds she explodes deep inside me as I cum all over her dick "fuck baby that was perfect" i moan as my body slumps down on hers I love our skin on skin contact it feels amazing "mhh I don't wanna move can you keep your dick inside me while we cuddle" I whisper into her ear I feel her smirk knowing she loves when I cock warm her she rubs my back as I lay ontop of her falling into a peaceful sleep.

AN: hope you like it a few coming today babes 😘 hope everyone's OK and having a great day/night all feedback welcome and to the regular people who vote on my one shots I see you! Thank you for voting on everyone I post ❤

[alicerosejensen]

Please tell us you’ll do a part 2 for your head canon about Leon’s girlfriend finding out about Ada and Claire. Surely he wouldn’t just let her run off like that if he loves her.

All you need to know is that while I was writing this part, I listened to "I Love How You Lie" - Eminem feat. Rihanna. At least twenty times. Maybe more.

There is no physical violence here, but you can see a broken Lеon when his girlfriend left for TWO months without explanation. Fuck knows why Tumbler gave me some character restrictions in the last post, but out of fear I shortened some part of the text. (And this time there were no such gifts)

Tornado meets volcano.

So, a few people asked for the second part and I translated it as far as I could into English. Enjoy it if you can.

I like this text. I consider this one of my best works (I think it looks much better on the original).

If you need a translation of the third part, then let me know. Because of the fucking restriction, I'm not sure it's worth putting this whole story out.

As Cersei Lannister once said, "Love is poison. Yes, it is sweet, but it kills no worse than any other".

Because of one man, you have no desire to go out into the daylight, there is no reason to smile or laugh. The realization that for Leon you were nothing more than a beautiful doll still makes the heart bleed and quietly cry into the pillow looking for salvation in the night while everyone is sleeping.

It seems that there will be no end to this pain, and your hero turned out to be the main villain in your story, because of which you suffer. You allowed yourself to be deceived, you allowed yourself to be played with. You're the one who let a stranger become someone close. You're the one who let Leon rip out his heart, leaving a gaping wound that's slowly rotting away.

Nevertheless, you still miss his warm, slightly rough hands at night, who hugged you tightly, hugging you on cool nights. Now this whole stupid story reminds of how the moth flew into the light and eventually burned to the ground, so that only ashes remained of it. The truth is that the fire is Leon, and you are a stupid moth that has gone out. Although now, looking at the night sky, pressing your knees to your stomach, hugging yourself tightly, despite the great loss, you hope one day to start shining brighter than comets again.

Carey called last week, telling the latest news and gossip, not forgetting to mention your boyfriend who came to college looking for you, but she lied to him saying she didn't know where you were and where you disappeared. Leon hardly believed it, but he was not a man who beat the truth out of others. At least not from stupid students. But your happiness is that he did not know where your parents' house was, which means that in any case his search will not be successful.

You're very happy about it. Here you allow yourself to walk through the fields, remembering your youth and go with your father to the forest, just like in childhood jumping on the biggest stones. In the evening, the old man plays guitar to you and your mother while you and her clean up the dishes after a hearty dinner. Here at home, your wounds don't ache so much from the pain, and you look with laughter at the childhood photos taken by your mother in Calcutta, when you wrapped yourself in someone's sari trying to repeat the movements of Indian dancers. Flipping through the pages, you came across a photo with your fifth birthday, where you joyfully got dirty with a birthday cake.

And while your parents were laughing, you suddenly remembered that for some reason Leon didn't have more than one child's photo. Then, for some reason, he still said that his parents died quite early, but it was a sore subject that the two of you never touched on with him again. But he really liked to hear about your childhood adventures.

So you thought…

You so wanted to escape from the noisy city, away from Leon, and now involuntarily the soul is drawn to him. Although it doesn't make sense to dream about a summer together anymore. You had a wonderful, romantic love. You left Leon your dream of living together, but he never touched on the topic of future family with you.

It was really funny. Your father still doesn't like your first high school crush, even though you were fifteen and there was nothing between you and this guy but a chaste kiss on the cheek, this guy was forever blacklisted by your father. To make him think about Leon, who was twelve years older? Most likely, he would have tried to shoot him with his hunting rifle.

All the things, books, clothes, cosmetics, even the phone - everything is left with Leon and you will have to come back for them anyway. However, the mere thought of the collision of these sapphire eyes makes, the body goosebumps. You can lick your wounds at home, but there…all the scabs will open up again if only he touches you. If he suddenly says that Ada does not matter to him, however, by that smile and the compact in his bedside table, you realized that she would always be in the first place for him.

I wonder how long he's been looking for you? You called your friend because you wanted to clarify (and once again slash at the heart with a sharp knife of truth) whether Leon appeared in college or tried to reach you through friends, but the truth is cruel: he wasn't looking for you. Of course, it was probably stupid to worry, but you hoped that you meant something to him at least a little.

Leon has become your sweet poison.

Somehow, all thoughts returned to him alone. You are ready to fall into the abyss after him, get a hundred bullets instead of him, but it was his bullet that killed you.

Therefore, no matter how much you love him, the mind, and not the remnants of feelings, tells you a reasonable "Let him go." This is what needs to be done, and it will be the right thing to do.

Unfortunately, Leon is not the hero of Tolkien's beautiful story. He is not Beren, and you are not his Luthien. Funny comparison… But this is an analgesic balm, so you can stand firmly at the door of the apartment from which you escaped a little more than two months ago.

However, uncertainty again knocked down your legs at the very last minute, turning you into a mess with swollen red eyes, drowning in a puddle of your own tears. But to hell with it! You weren't tempted to listen to his voice or reread old messages, so why the hell are all these fucking feelings coming back out?! The cleaner handed you the keys and you exhaled with relief, hoping that you would have time to pick up all the things before Leon returned and then the need for an explanation would disappear by itself.

You will simply disappear from his life. He will cherish his love for Ada Wong or find someone who will not mind being a replacement for this irreplaceable woman.

But you cross the threshold of the house, leaving the keys on the bedside table, intending to finish it as soon as possible. This person is not capable of loving you, and by and large your days together are numbered. This is what you repeat to yourself, pulling out of the closet a large suitcase and a bag, alternately putting your things there.

Yes, you notice a few bottles of alcohol in the kitchen, a mess and your phone. Leon unlocked it, and you think that maybe he decided to check your correspondence or recent calls, but he definitely didn't find anything "criminal". Because Ada Wong didn't write to you.

Without wasting precious time, you continue packing, still taking the phone and putting it in your coat pocket. Your blouses, dresses, underwear…actually, you wouldn't mind quickly changing into more comfortable clothes than the one you took from home. But still discarding the thought of changing clothes, you zipped up suitcase, grabbing an empty bag with her free hand to put all the cosmetics there. You turn around to go to the dressing table and…freeze.

Leon.

He tricked you. He wasn't on your side. Burn it with fire, but he will not see you in tears. You won't stay with him and let him tear you to pieces. You are not the heroine of Lana Del Rey's music video…

But Leon was just silently watching your hurried movements. With those deep bruises under his eyes and a faraway look. He looked so exhausted that you wanted to go up to him and kiss him almost on a reflex level, but your brain was still saying "let him go! Save the remnants of your poor heart!"

You thought one thing, and Leon did not understand why you poured caustic poison on him in this way, running away without explaining anything. Smouldering like a coal, he was still just glad to see you alive and unharmed. And yet the sandcastle that he was building with you was now being destroyed on his hands.

The only thing Leon knows is that if he loses you, he will lose his only home.

"I can't…I'm leaving you," you whispered, still fiddling with the strap of the bag, watching the light blue eyes darken in an instant.

"What do you mean?" - Leon takes the bag out of your hands, throwing it on the bed at the same time looking strangely at the already packed suitcase. - "Baby, if you've been wanting to tell me something for a long time, then you should have done it, and not run the devil knows where without money and a phone. What was I supposed to think? Where have you been? You haven't been to college for two months!"

My God, your body is screaming again, as it did then: "Run." Although it was a lie. Leon's voice remains even, calm… and gentle. Just don't run away from him. His hand gently grabs your palm, warming it, forcing the blood to circulate through your veins. He's been so damn worried, missed you so much, that he seriously thinks he'd rather tie you to a bed and set the fucking house on fire than let you leave.

"I'm not her. But I'm not a fucking piece of cake that you can take whenever you see fit. I loved you, but I don't want to see you anymore. I don't want to talk to you and know you."

The good question is, who is going to hurt who now? Some part of you wants to cause him at least a fraction of the pain that you experienced, while Leon becomes a shadow of his former self in front of your eyes from these words. You fucking promised him! Be with him!

"I'm not Ada Wong. I'm not a mysterious spy. But I'm not your toy either, Leon. I'm the fucking person whose feelings you played with! When I loved you so much that it went beyond sanity, you loved a completely different woman!"

You're crying, turning away from him to grab the remnants of things and throw them into a fucking bag and run far, far away to start all over again. Away from Leon and his woman in red. The main thing is that he does not look at you with that sad, tired look, otherwise you will not stand it and burst into tears out loud. Do you want to yell at him when he asks one simple question, "Is it because of Ada? Is she the reason you left?"

But you turn around abruptly.

"No. The reason is you, not her. You hurt me. Not Ada. She's the part of you that you'll never let go of. "

This quote and the compact should be enough for him to understand. But it drives to lose your mind. Your love melts when you look at him and listen to his tacit consent. He would never let this woman go. And you still have some remnants of pride. "Maybe you're right." - This is what finally breaks your love. Next to him, you become quieter, smaller…Leon won another round, and you lost to him. Your heartbeat slows down, but his words finally force you not to let him touch you.

"Good" - Your lips whispered it so simply. As if it doesn't hurt at all. "I'm leaving."

"Don't!" - Almost a plea, but you jump away from Leon when he grabs you by the shoulders and pulls you to him. Despite how much you missed him, now in order to save yourself, your brain began to make a monster out of him. "I won't let you go. I love you, you know that! That should be enough!"

"But it's not enough! You love her and you will always choose her from the two of us. I'm not coming back to you anymore. I'm NOT her replacement! I won't fall into these nets anymore!

This is your end.

The last point. You don't know how to continue to believe in better days, but it's time to part. It's time to leave and forget this feeling. You resist when Leon tries to hold you to him. This is what tears apart. You just loved him. Your emotions are in a mess, you don't even realize right away that you are choking on the howl of that same beaten dog. How can you love and hate him at the same time?

That's all. Leave. Run. But you fall to your knees because you can't do anything against him! You love him so much! Whether he's a monster or a scoundrel. What should you do? It shouldn't be like that at all.

"Angel, believe me! It has not been as important as it used to be for a long time. I love you. That message doesn't mean anything!" - His hands hold you tightly by the waist, not allowing you to leave. He also loves you no less than you love him. Why didn't you just tell him what was bothering you? - "You are my love."

He's fucking lying. He wasn't even looking for you.

"Let me go!" - You scream, remembering all the nights with him without sleep, when everything was fine. You want to believe in this fucking lie, but in order to escape, you grab the very last thread, strike a fatal blow: "I don't love you anymore!"

It was painful. Leon feels a ringing in his ears and wants to loosen his grip at the last second, but for some reason he leans against the top of your head, still hoping that you are lying.

"It is not true." You both knew that. You heard only a pulse pounding and one boundless silence. You would be ashamed to look at yourself in the mirror, but Leon turns you over to face him, wiping the wet tracks of tears on his swollen cheeks with his thumbs. - "I don't believe it. Princess, if you would tell me…I was going crazy. You ran away without even explaining anything. Do you really believe that I could hurt you? I love you, not her. That's all you need to know. I will always choose you."

"I want to leave." Leon nods negatively, feeling a lump in his throat, but you want to leave him. You've already decided everything. Even for the first time, only now he continues to deprive you of strength, being your biggest weakness. Even if you feel calm right now, burying your nose in his neck, you have to do it.

"Please don't say that…"

"But it's true!"

Leon's hands close around your waist as he kisses your temple. He has found you and right now he is holding you in his arms not so that you will leave. Not so that everything that you both have been building for so long will collapse. He doesn't need tears to hurt. He needs you.

And again a single tear falls from your eyelashes. Why is he lying to your face? Why did you become his victim? But you can't order your heart and you can't lie to your soul - you want your love for him to disappear like a bird in the sky, what a pity that miracles don't happen.

You are bound by these hands and absolutely unarmed. Hell, you can't even leave as beautifully as Ada always does.

"You don't want that, I know. Please baby…We can talk about it. Look at me." - You're doing it. Idiot. You look at him when his gentle touches become rough, as long as you just don't look away. Unlikely you could have turned your head even a couple of degrees. - "It's all good."

It would be better if you died now. There is no doubt in your sincere love… he will always come back to her. Therefore, not a damn thing is all right! You're not okay! It's you who are suffering from agony, while he just needs the warmth of a young body.

This is what you shout at him, pushing him away from you, getting to your feet, grabbing a suitcase. You don't care about anything anymore! You're running away forever. Leon's reaction, however, is faster than yours, and he manages to intercept you faster than you get to the open door, throwing the damn suitcase aside.

You are probably the unluckiest girl.

A familiar record of Leon's promises that he loves you. He pinned you against the wall, hanging like a mighty rock, cutting off escape routes. At this moment, you do not have enough air, as if the breathing taps have been blocked.

"Princess…" - You smile bitterly. A princess who was banished from her own kingdom and from his heart. You turn from a princess into a prisoner. It was he who left you a deep crater instead of a heart. -"You're not her, but that's why I'm with you. I don't love you for your body. If I wanted a beautiful girl for the night, then this relationship would never have happened."

"Please go" - The request hidden from the lips responds with a dull pain inside Leon. Taking a step towards you, he bumps into an obstacle from your hands that have fallen on his chest. - "I don't want to be second place anymore."

All Leon is thinking about at this very second, while you are tearing his skin and flesh getting to his heart in shreds, which bastard drove this thought into your head?

You're the reason he's still alive. How can you want to leave him after he has allowed you to become a part of his life? He's been looking for you these fucking two months! Sometimes, in a frenzy, I rushed after every passerby thinking that it was you. You are his most beloved person, so how can you leave him?

Why has everything changed so much? Because of that stupid message from Ada and the compact, which he hadn't thought about for a long time. He just threw it away and forgot, not thinking that you can find it, but if you find it…Why didn't you just ask him about it?! He would have gotten rid of this item in front of you!

You have to stay. But you had different points of view on the situation.

He couldn't fucking sleep in a shared bed, thinking about where you were and who you were with. What if you had actually been killed in an alley somewhere? But the way your friend calmly said that he allegedly knew nothing about your whereabouts made him calm down, because he was sure that this girl was not one of those who are in the dark. So you were either with her or at least safe.

The thought of another man who could touch you the way he touched you turned him inside out. You couldn't run off to another guy to hurt him even more. That's not your style.

"You always came first." - It's true, but why the hell do you think it's a lie? How can you think that he has someone else?! What the fuck is wrong with you? - "Since came into my life. All I ever wanted was you."

Leon wants this whole two-month performance to be a fucking manipulation. God, he'll forgive you for your stupidity. He will strip you naked, hold you close and tell you that he loves you very much. The main thing is not to leave. He'll take you wherever you want, just stay with him. Don't lie to him that you don't love him!

"I don't believe you." - The end. - "You're right, my heart is full of blind love for you, but enough of this torment. My biggest mistake is to think that you loved me too. I'm tired of this pain, and if I stay here, it will kill me once. I want to be happy. But to become one of them, you don't have to be in my life! Аlthough I love the way you lie."

"Don't say that!" - Leon grabbed you, hugging you to him, which is why the familiar smell of cologne hit you in the nose, which made you want to close your eyes, enjoying it. You become a disassembled puzzle in his hands again. - "I've never lied to you! Not a single day. Princess, Ada was an important part of my life. However, what I feel for her is nothing compared to what I felt for you. Believe in it."

And that's what you want. It seems that only one step separates you from the possibility of leaving. You pressed against his shoulder-so strong, warm, safe, while his palm covered the back of your head.

So weak. Grabbed him by the back, giving a spark of hope that you will stay. Instilling in him the hope that now he will calm you down and you will put on these shackles again when he puts you on the bed and makes love sex to you.

You thought it would be easier to do.

"That's it. It's all good. I'm here with you. You're with me." - Leon's voice is shaking. If you believe him now… remember the compact in his bedside table. Push him away! Save yourself! - "I love you."

He is the one who kisses your tears from your cheeks and nose. He holds your neck, so it seems he can squeeze it until it crunches in order to end your life, but Leon just strokes the skin with his thumb.

Leon's heartbeat slows down, returning to a normal rhythm. And you are his little favorite toy, which he takes away from the door, confident that everything is in the past. Sure he convinced you. And you take six whole steps forward with him, glancing at the suitcase he threw.

Your pulse is pounding in your temples. If you stay, then only God will know how much loneliness you can endure. Leon may not be cheating on you physically, but his thoughts will always be with the woman in red. With Ada. He will always come back to her.

If you stay, you will lose yourself forever. You suddenly thought that one day you would want children, but Leon's work does not imply their presence. Then even they won't be your outlet. And one day, the best solution would be to just kill yourself. Poison, knife, rope… you will be so broken by him that you will absolutely not care.

You're leaving. Point.

Don't forget about all the happy moments that he gave you, but don't you dare let him destroy you!

If you can't leave like Ada, then do it your way. Even if it looks ugly and pathetic. You may look like a beaten dog, but you will be ALIVE.

Someday this day will be just a nightmare from which you could wake up. Just find a little strength in yourself to take the handle of the suitcase and… leave.

Then you bend down, grab the handle and lift your luggage off the floor as Leon takes a few small steps away from you, intending to remove the empty bottles and finally throw Ada's compact away. He knows that you picked up the suitcase and for ten whole seconds was sure that you just want to put things back in their places.

So scary.

Both him and you.

"Sorry." - You exhale. It's so complicated. Either God is such a masochist, or you yourself. Leon looks at you and doesn't believe you. Some strange smile appears on his lips mixed with despair.

"Sweetheart, wait."

"Goodbye Leon"

And you're really leaving him.

You run out of the apartment like the first time, leaving him alone. But you won't come back.

Your days together were numbered.

[livingfictional]

Hiii!!! I just read through some of your match up posts and thought it‘d be AWESOME to request one as well! for the fandom, I‘d love to request call of duty since I‘ve been OBSESSED with it for soo long and have played most games ��

Starting off with some basics about me, my name is ash, I am 20 years old and live in germany! my ancestry contains tons and tons of german and a bit of french (4% french). I speak english, german, french and am currently learning russian! (🇬🇧/🇺🇸🇩🇪🇫🇷🇷🇺)

I have short dirty blonde hair that goes up to my shoulders, I cut it short 2 years ago… it‘s wavy and aaaallmost curly but not quite (2C hair)! I have a rather pale and small frame, I weigh not much over 50kg and am 6 feet tall!! yes.. very tall haha

My personality type is INTJ and I‘m often described as funny, a bit mean and overall quiet. I‘m very sarcastic and I love teasing people. Sometimes I just completely zone out of conversations and talk about the opposite thing.. 😭

I LOVE and adore cats with all my heart, I love me a good cup of tea, hiking and of course.. my bed! I love having deep conversations with my close friends about just so many various topics, it‘s always fun! I love the winter because the cold helps me sleep easier and it‘s so much more comfortable than any other season. <- I also love comfy cottages.. specifically in snowy mountains lol… One of my big goals and likes in life is travelling the world! I‘d love to visit many countries and just.. well, explore!!

On the other hand, I do NOT like spiders or bugs of any kind.. I‘m sorry.. 😭😓 I really don‘t like the heat because I have low iron issues and I just get.. woozy. Being around new people is a DRAG and I always feel a bit.. awkward. I‘d like to add that I‘m autistic and have problems expressing what I want at times which is a struggle in restaurants so I usually just beg on my hands and knees (not literally) for my friends to order for me.

My love language is physical touch and gift giving! I love handing people little trinkets I found or bought for them. I‘m very very touchy and I just harass people with hugs (affectionately). I love me a good cuddle, who doesn‘t?

I *LOVE* receiving gifts back because it just makes me feel so warm and fuzzy inside and it makes me very happy.. which is why i thoroughly enjoy the gifts given to me on my birthday.

I don‘t really know what else to say but I hope my short description of myself helps you find a match hahaha GOOD LUCK!! 🙌❤️

I match you up with... Gaz!

Man can and WILL order for you and speak up for you, if you feel uncomfortable. No need to even ask, just give him the look.

Based on what you've told me about yourself, I like to think you guys would be quite a good couple.

Hugs. All the time. Side hugs, from behind, around your waist, your shoulders, using you as a blanket. All. The. Time.

You two have a similar sense of humor, constantly teasing each other. Obviously, he will make sure you know it's all jokes.

Pretty boy is a great listener, learns your love languages early in the relationship.

Gaz makes sure that you feel loved and appreciated. He knows he can't be there with you all the time, but he will make up for it in other ways.

Ordering your favorite food for you, the random beautiful bouquet of flowers on your doorstep? Yup, also him.

[isadollie]

Hello fellow human,

I saw that you had a matchup open and I wanted to check it out. I really wanted to do this kind of stuff, but when I've found someone it was already closed. So I'm excited you're open for it :D

It's my first time so no pressure :3 (really no pressure, please don't be uncomfortable or stressed out about it)

To my matchup request. It would be for Haikyuu and Tokyo Revengers. If you only want to do one then I choose Haikyuu.

Now to my person:

---

🦝 Name? --- Yumi

🦝 Pronouns? --- She/Her

🦝 Sexuality? --- Bisexual

🦝 Girl or Boy matchup? --- Boys please :3

🦝 Likes? --- Sushi. Give me sushi and I'm happy. But music is also top priority on my list. I cannot without music.

🦝 Dislikes? --- I really don't like it when one is lacking manners. When I eat with someone and they are constantly on the phone, then I really want to punch them in the face and throw the phone out of the window. Not that I'm actually doing it, but I want to. Also crying children.

🦝 Freetime activities? --- I often play videogames and listen to loud music. Thou I also tend to draw characters until late at night.

🦝 Aesthetic? --- I really like the dark academia, but also a Big City at night aesthetic

🦝 Appearance? --- Naturally I have ash blonde hair but I have my hair dyed in red. Hair length wise I would say lower back. My eyes are blue and I have a very pale skin. Height is 159cm / 5'2.

🦝 Personality? --- My best friends alway tell me that I'm reliable and kind, but also very lost and savage. I also tend to be quick to throw jokes.

🦝 MBTI? --- INFP

🦝 Dream birthday present? --- Honestly, just a bouquet of flowers. Never got one, always wanted one.

🦝 Love language? --- Gift giving and some physical touch

🦝 Zodiac sign? --- Gemini

🦝 Favourite songs? --- Currently it's "LET THE WORLD BURN by Chris Gray" and "Villain (Take the shot) by Barns Courtney"

---

I hope this helps you :D

If you have any more questions then just ask right away. I hope you're having fun.

And again don't feel stressed out or anything, don't forget to drink enough and enjoy yourself :3

Lots of love <3

— matchup —

if you'd want a matchup too, make sure to check out this! link

i match you with...

Akaashi Keiji!

★ there you have him! a well-mannered man through and through!

★ mention to him once that you like sushi, and the next day you'll find three boxes of it on your desk. if you don't tell him that it's enough for now, he'll get you some every day probably lol

★ he became a manga editor in the future, so i assume he sees a lot of drawings daily, knows a lot about drawing. you two would have a lot to talk about in this case then!

★ he'll get you those flowers 100%. every year. every month. every week. every-

the same as with sushi, if you mention you want something, he'll get it for you in a heartbeat. i think he would decide that just flowers aren't enough though, and would get you something else with them as well

★ he loves people who are reliable, just like him!<3 plus, he admires kindness in people a lot, so he really likes it about you!

i match you with...

Chifuyu Matsuno!

★ Fuyu himself is very loyal, so he would really like to be with someone who is like this as well; in fact i believe this is one of the most important traits to him

★ a big city at night aesthetically screams tokyo revengers in general haha. but if you like how the city look like at night, make sure to tell him and he'll take you on a late night ride on his bike!

★ if i remember this one correctly, i believe Chifuyu liked to read mangas, so i'm sure whenever he has a new favourite character he would ask you to draw them for him lmao

★ i feel like he'd love your long hair!! he's not good at it, but would ask you if he can practice making some hairstyles on you

★ he'd really appreciate a partner who has a good sense of humor, he'll love that you make jokes and are able to make him laugh!

hello! here is your matchupp! i hope you like it<3 your second match was takemichi for tr, and iwaizumi for hq!

[wordsmithwhumpsandfluff]

Can't wait for that feverish Isaac story!! Just a little idea: Can Isaac be stubborn and denying that he's sick at first? Just a suggestion.

This fic is also a lil introduction of Isaac's family. Hope you enjoy!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The smile on Isaac’s face was just as bright and wide as his little sister’s as she opened her birthday gifts.

Isaac’s gift came in a large pink bag, and his sister—Tania—was literally hopping with excitement as she opened it. The nine-year-old girl squealed as she pulled each gift out, exclaiming “Thank you, Issy!” every time she pulled one out. In total, Isaac got her a Pikachu onesie, a Ninjago Kai plushy, and a ton of bath bombs and girly stuff he had Eliana and Jordan help him pick from Justice. He also put a 20-dollar bill in her glittery and pink card.

“I’m gonna win,” Isaac’s older brother—Ash—murmured jokingly in his ear. “My gift is so much better than yours.”

Isaac rolled his eyes, smiling, and he whispered back, “Yeah, well I’m in college and living off cheap Chinese food and potato chips basically every week. I’m not some six-figure career man like you, yet.”

The competition felt good to Isaac. It reminded him of when he and his brother were younger.

Isaac’s gift was the last one on the table, and once all of the wrapping paper had been picked up, Isaac went to get himself his second slice of cake.

As he was cutting it, he had to grab the table to steady himself for a second. He had been dizzy and getting dizzier, but he was sucking it up and enjoying Tania’s ninth birthday.

“So, anyone special in the picture yet?” Ash asked, coming up beside Isaac to get more cake as well. “Your last girlfriend was that tall girl. . . Marrissa, right?”

“Melissa,” Isaac corrected. Then he shrugged. “She and I only went on three dates. I don’t think that I can count her as an old girlfriend if that’s the case.”

“But are there any other girls on the radar?”

Isaac shook his head, popping a forkful of chocolate cake in his mouth. When he swallowed, he asked, “Well, are you planning to pop the question to Brooklynn any time soon?”

Ash shook his head. “Nah, not yet. I mean, I want to. But we’ve only been together for a year, and Brook would probably like it better if I waited a bit longer.”

Isaac nodded, continuing to eat cake. Eventually, Tania came up to them and dragged them over so she and her friends could put tiaras on them and paint their nails, and both boys had to go along with it whilst refraining from cringing. By 7pm, when everyone started leaving the party, Isaac had hot-pink nail polish painted messily all over his fingertips, and Ash had—dumbly—trusted the girls to use makeup on him and he wound up with an eyeliner-unibrow, neon blue eyeshadow, and so much lipstick on and around his mouth, making him look like a clown. Ash sent a selfie to his girlfriend, who responded with about a hundred laughing and skull emojis.

“You boys look beat,” their grandmother snickered while they were helping her clean up. “Why don’t you two go ahead and clean yourselves up. I’ll finish down here.”

“We’re fine, Gran,” Isaac said, smiling and picking up some confetti from the floor.

When Ash tried to say the same reassurance, Gran raised a brow at him and said, “Your face reminds me of a clown, honey. It’s freaking me out. Go upstairs and fix your face.”

Isaac had to bite down a laugh at his grandmother’s bluntness. Ash was pouting slightly as he made his way upstairs.

Isaac was collecting plastic cups and forks when a sudden wave of dizziness crashed into him, and he stumbled a little on his feet. He was starting to feel more off than he had all day.

“Everything alright, hon?” Gran asked from across the room, her hands full of pink streamers.

Isaac put on a reassuring smile and said, “Yeah, I’m fine.”

Cleaning up didn’t take too long, and Gran let out a huge sigh when they were done, sitting on her couch. “I think that was the last party I’m throwing by myself. Next time, you boys can take your sister to a Skyzone or something. I’m too old to deal with hyperactive little girls hopped up on sugar.”

Isaac smiled, sitting beside his grandma. “Well, I’d say tonight was a success anyway. Tania loved the party, Gran.”

Gran nodded, smiling. Then her smile faltered slightly. “You’re looking a bit pale, hon. Have you had water today?”

Isaac waved off her concern, still smiling. “I’m perfectly fine, Gran. Just a bit tired.” She opened her mouth again, and before she could repeat herself, Isaac quickly assured, “Yes, I had water.”

She began to watch some reality tv show she liked in the living room, and Isaac went upstairs to go to his bedroom.

When Isaac got up to that floor, he saw Ash—with his face clean and his hair wet from a shower—leaving his own childhood bedroom with his backpack on. Unlike Isaac, Ash had to get to work the next day and couldn’t spend the night.

“Wanna hang out tomorrow after I wrap up at work?” Ash asked.

Isaac shook his head. “Sorry, man. Keiko’s picking me up from here tomorrow. He’s got one last day of freedom before he basically goes into a week of isolated study-hibernation to prep for his last and biggest final. We’re spending the day at the bowling alley and arcade with a few of the others.”

“Yeah, finals are the worst,” Ash chuckled. “Anyway, I’ll call you tomorrow, Issy,” he said, ruffling Isaac’s hair.

Isaac playfully slapped his hand away with a smile. “Yeah yeah. Tell Brook I said hi.”

“Will do.”

Ash went downstairs to say bye to Gran and leave. Meanwhile, Isaac went to his own childhood bedroom.

Not much nostalgia washed over him since spending nights in this room was still something he did often, despite being in college. If he hadn’t wanted to have some feeling of independence, he totally would’ve gone to college while living at home. But even though he does have his own place, he does enjoy being at home to spend time with his family.

He didn’t turn on the lights and shut the door before he sank onto his bed, letting out a sigh of relief. His head was hurting and heavy, and his whole body felt a bit strange. Also, he just couldn’t figure out why he felt so cold.

It was early and Isaac hadn’t showered yet, but he was too tired to care. Laying down just felt so good. He lazily shuffled around and got under his covers, hoping that he would feel better when he woke up.

— — —

“Hi, Ms. Waters,” Keiko said when Isaac’s grandma answered the door.

She smiled at him. “Hello, Keiko. Isaac’s upstairs in his room. Go ahead and get him—he’s probably playing videogames or something.”

“Thanks.” Keiko came into the house and went upstairs to Isaac’s room. He knew where it was since they used to hang out there a lot when they were in middle and high school.

Keiko knocked on Isaac’s door. “Hey, Isaac. You ready to go?”

There was no answer. Confused, Keiko knocked again, and a groan answered him, followed by the sound of someone getting out of bed. Seconds later, Isaac opened the door, looking miserable and a little annoyed. The room was dark.

Keiko raised a brow at him. “Were you asleep? At noon?”

Isaac yawned against his fist, and Keiko narrowed his eyes a bit as he realized that Isaac looked really pale. “Yeah,” he grumbled. “And it’s not noon. . . is it?”

Keiko held up his phone, showing the time. Isaac’s eyes widened and he cursed under his breath, flipping on the light in his room and turning to walk over to his closet. “I’m sorry,” he said. “God, we’re gonna be late. I thought I set an alarm or something.” He was rambling. “Just give me a second to get out of my pajamas. Then we can—”

Keiko frowned. “Isaac, you’re not in pajamas. You even have your shoes on.”

Isaac froze, looking down. He was indeed not in pajamas. He was wearing jeans and a grey t-shirt he wore often, and he had his Nike sneakers on. He slept with shoes on. But he continued to fuss through the closet though. “Yeah, but these are my clothes from yesterday. I’ll change, and then we can—”

Isaac was cut off when Keiko came up beside him and startled him. Before Isaac knew it, Keiko had his hand on Isaac’s forehead, and he frowned deeper at the slight warmth.

“I think you have a fever, Isaac. You can’t go out like this.”

Isaac scoffed and swatted his hand away. “I’m fine. I overslept, and I didn’t feel like getting into pajamas last night. But I’m not sick.” He grabbed some different jeans and a yellow shirt. “Now, get out so I can change.”

Keiko crossed his arms. “Your forehead is warm. You have a fever.”

“My face is warm because I slept with my face pressed to my pillow. Stop overreacting, doc, and let. Me. Get. Dressed.”

Keiko remained where he was for a second—arms still crossed—before he sighed in defeat and left the room.

Isaac changed quickly, and he had brushed and tidied up his hair by the time he came out of the bedroom. “Okay. Let’s go.”

Keiko still wanted to insist that the blonde should stay, but he knew his words would fall on deaf—or, rather, stupidly stubborn—ears.

Isaac quickly said bye to Tania and Gran downstairs before he left with Keiko.

The drive to the bowling alley was about twenty minutes, and they were a little late, but they weren’t the latest at least.

Some of the others were busy that day, so the only other people coming were Birdie, Jordan, Eliana, and Amberlynn. Birdie was the latest.

At first, everything was fine. Isaac brought out Eliana’s competitive side, and the two of them kept shooting intense smack-talk at each other. Amberlynn and Keiko spent most of their time at the arcade together, and they came pack with a cat plushie they got with their tickets.

Isaac was having so much fun that he was able to ignore how crappy he felt.

That is, until the food came.

When Isaac sat down and saw the fries and pizza that they ordered, his stomach clenched in a way that made his back break out in a cold sweat.

“Oh, thank God,” Amberlynn groaned when her turn was over. She had just rolled a Strike. “I’m so freaking hungry.” She took four fries and ate all of them at once, not surprising anyone.

Isaac’s smile was now tense, and he felt dizzy just my thinking about eating. And he was wishing he brought a hoodie since this place felt like it was freezing.

“You okay?” Keiko asked, sitting beside him.

Isaac didn’t answer.

Keiko frowned. “Isaac?”

Suddenly, Isaac stood and walked away without saying a word, going to the bathrooms. The second he was in a stall, he leaned over the toilet and heaved, but nothing came up since his stomach was completely empty.

That’s when the door to the bathrooms opened again, and Isaac heard Keiko call his name.

Since it was a weekday, there was almost no one at the bowling alley, and that meant that the bathroom was empty besides Isaac’s stall. Keiko knocked on the stall door, asking Isaac if he was alright.

Isaac sighed, knowing he couldn’t keep acting like nothing was wrong, and he opened the door.

Keiko had his arms crossed and a knowing look on his face. “You wanna admit I was right?”

Isaac pouted. “Don’t gloat.”

“Are you nauseous? Have you puked?”

Isaac shook his head. “I don’t have anything to throw up.” He hugged his stomach. “I think I caught this bug from Birdie. Spirit and I helped her a couple of days ago when she was sick.”

Keiko nodded, understanding. “Okay. I’m taking you back to your grandma’s house.”

Isaac didn’t even argue.

After a minute, Kei and Isaac went back out to the others. Keiko said he’d be right back. He said that Isaac wasn’t feeling well, and that he was taking him home. Then the two left.

Isaac wasn’t one to get carsick, but the motion of the car combined with his dizziness made it hard to even see straight with all the spinning.

Keiko had to help Isaac out of the car when they got back to Gran’s house. Needless to say, Gran was shocked when she saw how sick Isaac was, and kinda fell onto the fine line between fussing over him and chastising him for leaving when he was sick.

“Thanks for bringing my idiot of a grandson back, Keiko,” Gran said, making Isaac pout grumpily at the insult.

���Of course, Ms. Waters.” He looked at the blonde. “Bye, Isaac.”

“Bye,” Isaac said while his grandma all but pushed him upstairs.

Keiko left with a slight smile on his face, glad that his idiot of a friend was in good hands.

[deadrics]

-ˋˏ cedric diggory ˎˊ-

⌜humming a frog choir song that is still stuck in your head; an easy smile that doesn’t quite meet your eyes anymore; the drip of guilt down your throat and the constant wonder if maybe, just maybe, there was something you could have done differently; a soft pillow under your head even as thoughts rush about your overthinking mind; quidditch as therapy, longing for the burn of a cigarette in your lungs; the reassuring squeeze of a hand, the pressure of friendship; hope for a better future, though your once quiet optimism is waning⌟

THE BASICS;

full name : cedric amos diggory

nickname(s): ced, diggory

age & year: 25, seventh year

birthday: september 7th

house: hufflepuff 

sexuality: bisexual (not necessarily closeted, but has only dated women so the subject hasn’t really come up beyond his group of friends)

blood status: pureblood

wand: ash wood with unicorn hair core, 12 ¼ inches, pleasantly springy

patronus: capybara

zodiac sign: virgo

place of birth : ottery st. catchpole, devon, england

APPEARANCE;

faceclaim : nicholas galitzine

height & build : 6’2”, tall and broad shouldered, bad-postured

eye color : hazel

hair color : light brown & wavy

other: tiny scar on his little finger on his left hand (left by a foul-tempered garden gnome); long burn scar down the right side of his abdomen (left by an even fouler-tempered blast-ended skrewt); arms tops of shoulders dotted with light freckles (courtesy of hours upon hours practicing quidditch)

PERSONALITY;

positive traits : self-effacing, generous, helpful, sensible

cedric has never been one for glory or fame; the only reason he entered his name into the triwizard tournament was at the insistence of his father and badgering of his friends. he is humble nearly to a fault, never wanting to take credit for his achievements and quick to hand out house points to students in other houses. despite nearly always having people around him, cedric isn’t one to stand out, never wanting to be the loudest in the room; he’s a quiet observer and knows a lot about people because he listens rather than talks. many have taken this quietness as almost a sign of arrogance, and a lack of questions a sign of disinterest.

negative traits : dubious, withdrawn, self-sacrificing, perfectionist

the lack of want for any form of recognition is due to the fact that cedric feels he has great pressure to be perfect. his parents have great expectations of him, and, though he is a rather gifted student, there is still a fear that he won’t measure up. constantly immersed in studies,  ced tends to get particularly irritable when a big exam is coming up. 

prior to the events of the third task, cedric was always around for a quick word or helpful advice. you needed something? ask cedric. but the events surrounding harry potter’s death, the rumor mill running rampant, as well as watching alastor moody’s eye pop out of barty crouch’s skull, the shaking of the real alastor moody locked within a trunk, cedric isn’t seen around much anymore. usually tucked inside the hufflepuff common room, walking the grounds at night under pretense of head boy duties or under the warm glow of the greenhouses, he’s put his focus on his studies–or, really, anything to keep his mind off that fateful night in june. 

likes: warm september days; spending afternoons in the greenhouse with professor sprout (he has no great love for herbology, but mainly he studies and tries not to get in the way of the venomous tentacula); playing gobstones, charms and transfiguration classes; a warm cup of earl grey tea; writing letters to students so they have something to open for owl post; lazy afternoons on the back of a broomstick

dislikes: confined spaces, care of magical creatures (this one is new, he used to rather enjoy it, but now he can’t even look at hagrid without being reminded of the maze’s monsters); too many questions; large crowds; nighttime

FAMILIAL TIES;

NUCLEAR FAMILY

amos diggory: father

catherine diggory: mother

while the diggorys are a long-standing pureblood family, they never got caught up in the antics and politics of magical society. or, at least, catherine didn’t. amos, on the other hand, had always been an ambitious lad, always trying to work his way up the ranks in the ministry. cedric’s father had a certain air of superiority to him, not that he was ever unkind to cedric, but he would kick the gnomes in their garden and always had something to say about the state of ministry officials’ houses (and the poor jobs their house-elves were doing). he worked for the department of regulation and control of magical creatures and always had some story to tell; as a child, cedric found these stories fascinating, but as he grew, he realized how much amos hated where he was positioned. as cedric grew, his father’s insecurities were taken out on him: he always said that cedric was going to become the next minister for magic: (“my boy, my son, top of the class! ‘Atta boy, ced!”) he’d boast about cedric’s tiniest of accomplishments. cedric loved his father dearly, but he couldn’t help but feel that the weight of amos’ hopes and dreams were all pinned directly on his shoulders. 

Catherine was kind, but quiet, and her husband tended to talk over her a great deal of the time. before cedric went to hogwarts, she stayed home with him, reading to him, watching him sail around on his child-size broomstick, looking after him and his cousins, and caring for the many magical plants in their garden. after he left for school, she began working at dogweed and deathcap in diagon alley, tending to the plants. though cedric has no passion for herbological studies, he finds home in the greenhouses and thinks of his mother. 

EXTENDED FAMILY

barnaby thistlewood (distant) uncle – deceased

abigail thistlewood: (distant) aunt

grace thistlewood: (distant) cousin

thom thistlewood: (distant) cousin

the thistlewoods are the closest things to siblings that cedric had. thom was two years above ced, and was idolized by his little cousin. grace was in the same year and always wanted to help catherine water the plants. though genealogically distantly related, the trio were anything but. summers, especially after uncle barny died in a potioneering accident, were usually spent at the diggory house, practicing quidditch, putting on skits, and causing a bit of mischief. 

PETS & MORE

galileo: bought for cedric’s 11th birthday, galileo the eastern screech owl has been his constant companion. he’s a bit temperamental, but nearly always seeks out his owner to nibble on bits of pumpkin pasties. 

babbity rabbity: the thistlewood’s ancient irish setter; bow-legged and bug-eyed, babs became a fixture in the diggory household during the summer holidays when the thistlewoods would come and stay for weeks at a time

gnomes: inhabiting their well-tended garden, cedric grew up with the gnomes and would build them little houses out of sticks. many became his friends (except brocc, who found it funny to latch onto his fingers) and would help catherine tend the garden and even allow her to place miniscule hats on their heads

BACKGROUND;

HOGWARTS

hogwarts, as for many students who walk its hallowed halls, quickly became a second home to young cedric. he was sorted into hufflepuff in an instant, and found that the cozy common room and the house-elves next-door provided the same comforts and familiarity as home. cedric instantly found himself liked and surrounded by people all the time, which he wasn’t used to, as an only child, but he didn’t mind in the slightest. 

he excelled in classes–potions made him nervous and herbology (sorry professor sprout) bored him–but transfiguration and charms were where his talents lay. flitwick doted on him and he found he could even coax a smile or two out of mcgonagall. though he didn’t adore her classes, there was no question that his favorite teacher was professor sprout. she was strict in classes, but outside she was a big softie, and would invite cedric to tea on occasion on free afternoons. the greenhouses were not densely populated, so he often took his studies there (professor sprout didn’t mind if he practiced charms on empty pots either). quidditch also took up a good deal of his time; he didn’t quite have the build of a seeker, but he was a fast and experienced flier. 

cedric became a prefect then head boy, but the only thing weighing on his mind was what to do after graduation. he had aced his owls and had a pick of the lot. his father was already trying to line up internships for him at the ministry–”minister of magic, my boy”--but there was something to be said for being a mediwizard, helping people, that cedric found appealing.

THE TRIWIZARD TOURNAMENT

it hadn’t been his idea at all, it had been marshall colby’s–”just imagine it, three bloody brilliant tasks! hey, you’re the best in the whole year, ced, you’re putin’ your name in, aren’t ya?”-- and the owl from his father came the day after it was announced–”you’ll be a shoo-in for any job you want next year, ced! i’d be so proud! my boy! triwizard champion!”-- so it wasn’t really an option to not submit his name. after all, so many sixth and seventh years had, the odds of him being picked were slim. on the afternoon of october 31st, cedric printed his name neatly on a piece of parchment, stepped over the age line, and dropped it into the flickering blue flames. it was that simple. 

less simple, perhaps, when his name, along with viktor krum’s and fleur delacour’s came out of the goblet. less simple when harry potter’s shortly followed. it was pure pandemonium afterward, a whir of yelling and accusations of cheating, but cedric, looking at the young gryffindor’s terrified and confused face told him that, even if he had found some way to cross the age-line, that this was more than he had bargained for. 

the hufflepuff common room was a madhouse that night, no one letting cedric out of their sights. they’d gotten food from the kitchens and the party lasted into the early hours of the morning–some bashed harry potter, but cedric was too overwhelmed, felt everything was too surreal, to correct them. 

then came the first task. with a tip-off from harry potter of all people–he’d asked people to stop wearing the ‘potter stinks’ badges, but he figured that harry wasn’t his biggest fan at the moment–he found out that he’d have to face a dragon! a bloody dragon! he took to the greenhouse to pour over books, figuring out the best way to deal with this daunting first task (professor sprout said she wouldn’t help him as she didn’t condone cheating, but she did purposefully knock his transfiguration book off the work bench and coughed pointedly until he got the hint). it all had gone to plan, his transfiguration had worked (sorry babs), but it was just a pity the dragon didn’t like the taste of labrador. 

the second task drug out, but the prefects’ bathroom and the golden egg were the perfect companions. and, as it seemed harry potter did not vehemently despise him, and he’d warned him about the first task, he’d decided to give him a leg up, as well. the bubble-head charm worked like, well, a charm, earning him maximum points and putting him in the lead tied with harry for first. 

the third task was the most daunting of all, with nearly sixteen-foot tall hedges and the looming dread of ‘being prepared’. so he worked, day in and day out, brushing up on defensive skills and jinxes and hexes and charms. he hardly ate, barely slept, and the paranoia set in. then his parents came, the day of the task, all smiles, catherine beaming and amos crying with pride. 

then all hell broke loose. blast-ended skrewts, acromantulas, a psychotic durmstrang champion and the most agonizing pain he’d ever felt, and then, there it was. It was just he and harry staring at the shining cup. they stared at it, they stared at each other. they stared at it again. “together?” the boy who lived had asked, as his fingers closed around the handle of the cup a moment before cedric’s did. and then he was grasping at thin air. and harry was gone. 

will discuss the whole barty crouch shenanigans later, but this is getting lengthy at the moment.

THE AFTERMATH

guilt ate away at him the entire summer. he was supposed to intern at the ministry, they’d been so impressed with the idea of him as hogwarts champion. he’d even technically won the prize money, but the galleons sat and stared at him all summer, he wouldn’t take that bloodmoney. cedric hardly saw his father that summer, and his mother would check on him every few hours to make sure he was still breathing.

once the school year started back up in september, the whispers began. voldemort, he-who-must-not-be-named, you-know-who. others said it was barty crouch, but cedric knew that wasn’t the case. it couldn’t have been. the ministry overlooked it, every questioning letter he wrote to his father was simply answered with “nothing to worry about, focus on your studies”, and so the question remained: if the ministry wasn’t going to do something about it, who was?

CONNECTIONS;

FRIENDS

canonically, my man is mr. popularity! he needs his loud, boisterous group of friends. some would obviously be closer to him than others, but he just wants people to like him. 

BEST FRIEND/CONFIDANT

cedric’s ride or die, the one person he tells everything to; the only one who he voices his concerns to and has told all the gory details of what happened in june. 

CURRENT OR EX-PARTNER

not too picky with how this one turns out, but cedric has obviously been greatly affected by the final task and has withdrawn from people due to this; this person would be one of them. he feels so guilty and is struggling to cope with that, so this could be what is/did drive a wedge between them

QUIDDITCH RIVAL

honestly i just think it would be really hilarious if this was a one-sided i-hate-that-cedric-is-so-great relationship, especially when it comes to quidditch. ced thinks it’s all a bit of fun and he loves quidditch so having someone who is good is fun for him, but if they legitimately don’t like him, i would love it.

HERBOLOGY BUDDY

ced isn’t great at herbology, but he’s always been found in the greenhouses. maybe tutor/study buddy?

if anyone else has any ideas, i’m not set on any one thing for these, just throw some plots my way!

[ashxketchum]

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

It’s me, your animanga no-longer-a-secret Santa!! It feels weird to not be asking anonymously, lol

Anyways, I’m just here to let you know that your gift has been posted.

Unfortunately, it is not my best work, for a number of reasons. I was wondering if you could please share when your birthday is, if you’re comfortable? I would like to draw something for your birthday, especially since this art wasn’t as good as it could be. Maybe it’ll be a redraw of this, but hopefully better? Or maybe something new?

Anyways, I’ve had a wonderful time getting to know you! I hope you still somewhat enjoy the gift. Happy holidays, and have a wonderful new year!

-Maddy

Hello Maddy, happy holidays to you too!

I’m so happy that we can finally talk like this 😆

Don’t worry too much about the gift, it’s lovely! Anything with Ash and Pikachu on it gets an instant stamp of approval from me 🥰 And my birthday is in November so it only just passed 😅 But again, don't stress since I already loved what you put up 💕

[mxliv-oftheendless]

The Mysterious Disappearance of Heather McMann: Q+A

Oh, what’s this? Why, it’s only the sequel to Heather’s Buzzfeed Unsolved episode! So if you’ll recall, last time we checked in on the Ghoul Boys Heather got her own Buzzfeed Unsolved episode (that’s the link to it right there). So one thing Ryan and Shane do after every episode is a Q+A session called the Postmortem, where they answer any questions and respond to any theories viewers may have. So naturally, I wanted to do a follow-up where questions about Heather were answered! Special thanks to @cosmicrealmofkissteria @ashestoashesvvi and @retronova for sending in questions and theories! Oh yeah, and you’ll want to stick around for the ending... ;)

Also: IT’S @ashestoashesvvi‘s BIRTHDAY!!! So in celebration, I officially dedicate this story to Ash as a birthday gift. Hope you enjoy!!! 

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The camera opens on Ryan and Shane who are sitting at their postmortem desk. Shane is on the left while Ryan is on our right.

“Hello and welcome to another addition of Buzzfeed Unsolved: Postmortem, a show where we answer your most pressing questions about the most recent episode of Buzzfeed Unsolved, which was Heather McMann.” As Ryan says her name, the camera cuts away to stock footage of a foot lying on a mortuary table, with the tag tied to its toe reading: POSTMORTEM: HEATHER MCMANN. Ryan continues as the camera cuts back to the two.

“All the questions we’re answering today came from you guys via our Buzzfeed Unsolved Facebook page and our Buzzfeed Unsolved Instagram page, as well as the video itself…”

“On BUN!” Shane joins in on saying this, while below them is the link: youtube.com/BuzzFeedUnsolvedNetwork. 

“Now this was a very interesting episode,” Ryan says as they pull out their phones. “I’m really interested to hear what people have to say. Especially because, as my research revealed, the KISS Army is very opinionated about some things.”

“Like what?” Shane asks interestedly.

“Uh… there’s this whole thing about how the current lead guitarist doesn’t deserve to wear the Spaceman makeup because he’s not the original Spaceman. Also apparently Paul Stanley is lip syncing because his voice is so horrible nowadays… their words, not mine.”

“Huh. Weird. I mean, in any fanbase, you’re bound to have opinionated people. It doesn’t mean they’re right, just…”

“Yeah. I have looked up footage of their most recent concerts, and Paul Stanley sounds fine. Like, for the record, I don’t think he’s lip syncing. Maybe his voice is just not what it used to be because of age.”

“Yeah,” Shane chuckles, “there is such a thing as the passage of time,”

Ryan snickers. “Exactly. Okay, let’s open up with this question from Gramtown…”

“Good ol’ Gramtown!” 

“This is from Ashes7Moria: #postmortem Heather McMann vanished and has been hanging out with Vinnie Vincent for the past 20 years. I’d love to know what exactly both of them have been up to. 👀👀👀” Ryan looks up at the camera. “Good theory… Actually this could very well be true because I don’t exactly know what Vinnie Vincent is up to, or even where he is now.” 

“How can you not know that?”

“Because he disappeared out of the public eye in the nineties. I think it was after a KISS Expo…”

“KISS has expos?”

“KISS has a lot of things, actually. But yeah, it was after a KISS Expo, and he just dropped off the Earth never to be seen again.”

“So yeah, this could be true.”

“Yeah, it could. It could also be not true. But who knows.”

Shane shrugs. “Who knows?”

“Also, good use of the emoji side eyes.”

Shane snickers. “I don’t think they’re having sex, though.” Ryan and Shane laugh.

“Oh my god, Shane,” Ryan snickers. “Good question, Ashes7Moria. Onto our next one. Shane?”

Shane looks down at his phone. “This one comes from YouTube, from r0cketr1de, with a zero and a one, who says: For the post mortem: Could KISS be covering up something terrible that she did? Her stage name WAS Black Dahlia. Maybe she started taking it too literally. #shaniac #loveyoutooryan” He looks up smiling at Ryan. “I swear I didn’t put that in there.”

“No, but you did totally pick that question just to poke fun at me.” Ryan sighs. “Anyway, that question…”

“That’s… wow. That’s pretty interesting.”

“It is a pretty interesting theory. We did make the connection of Black Dahlia in the video, if you’ll recall…”

The camera cuts away to the video footage:

did she have an onstage persona?

yeah, she did. hers was the Black Dahlia.

nice. reminds me of the murder.

it probably reminded a lot of people of the murder

Shane says, “It could be possible she had a little, ah, slip in her mental stability and just started killin’ a bunch of people.”

“I—” Ryan bursts out laughing. “Jesus Christ, man…”

“Hey, it’s possible!”

“I don’t think it’s possible. From what I could gather, Heather McMann doesn’t fit the profile of a would-be psychopath. And even if she was, she’s not someone like George Hodel.”

“Who knows, Ryan,” Shane smirks at him. “Maybe she was the one who really killed Elizabeth Short, and took on the name Black Dahlia as a little fun trademark.”

“That would only be possible if she was born in the early twentieth century, which she wasn’t. She’s not immortal.”

“Well some people on the Internet seem to think she is,” Shane laughs.

Ryan sighs and shakes his head, then turns back to the camera. “But anyway, yeah, I don’t think that’s possible. That’s a fun theory though…”

“Like something from a Holly Horsely novel.”

“Oh yeah, we haven’t heard from her in a while!” Ryan exclaims. “I’ve actually missed her short stories!”

Shane points at the camera. “Holly, if you’re doing all right, let us know. We’d love to hear from you again.”

“Okay, next question. This one comes from Instagram, from phantomofthepark, who says: I still think she was only around with the band cause she slept her way in and they tossed her out when she was all used up.”

The background music stops. Ryan and Shane look at each other, then at the camera.

“Well that’s bullshit,” Shane says.

“Yeah, that’s pretty bullshit. She was a very good player. There’s concert footage of her playing with the band.”

“This just sounds like he’s trying to find a reason that makes sense to him as to why a woman would be playing rock music.”

“It really does.”

“Rolling Stone guy who said this was the end of KISS? Is that you?”

Ryan laughs. “Oh my god, what if it is?”

“If it is… who’s laughing now?” Shane shrugs, grinning at the camera. “They’ve been around for almost fifty years. Get rekt, sir.”

“Also, you’re wrong. Women can play rock music. Have you ever heard of Joan Jett?”

“Oh, I love me some Joan Jett!”

“Yeah, you’re also disregarding all the stuff I said about Paul Stanley wanting her to stay. He wanted her to stay in the band—all of them did, actually—so it doesn’t make sense for them to, as you say, toss her out when she was all used up.”

“Yeah. This is a dumb theory. I’m ruling this out.”

“Yeah, this theory is ruled out. Next question.”

Shane looks down at his phone. “Let’s get a question from Facebook, from Shandi Strutter, who says: For the postmortem: Have you ever wondered if Heather might be dead? There’s no evidence to prove that she isn’t, especially if no one has heard from her since she disappeared and she hasn’t been found. #postmortem #boogara #ghostsarerealfyoushane.”

“Okay,” Shane laughs. “We’re even now. Are you proud of yourself?”

Ryan grins at him. “Yes, very proud.” He looks back at the camera. “To answer your question, Shandi…”

“Which by the way is a great name. I’d name my future kid Shandi.”

“It’s from a KISS song, actually.”

“Oh, sweet!”

“Anyway, that is a very good question. It did cross my mind that maybe Heather was murdered. Actually, it was going to be one of the theories that ended up in the video. But when I tried to find evidence of this theory being legitimate, because I try to make most of my theories legitimate, all I could find were a few tabloid magazines with miniscule articles about it. By the time the articles were written, Heather was already out of the public eye for some time.”

“I mean, have they ever talked about Heather in the past tense?”

“Who, KISS?”

“Yeah, KISS. Like Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, have they ever talked about her in the past tense?”

“I mean, they have…” Ryan looks up at the camera. “This case is a really weird one because it’s the early 80s, everyone’s looking at KISS to see what quote-unquote “mistake” they’ll make next, so there’s going to be a lot of gossip magazines circulating rumors. You have to take a lot of the information surrounding this case with a grain of salt. Also because no body was found, we can’t safely say that she was murdered.”

“We also can’t safely say she wasn’t.” Shane points out.

“That too. Good question.”

“Alright, onto our last question of the day before we get to the Hot Daga!”

Ryan visibly rolls his eyes and audibly sighs, then looks down at his phone. “This is from Gramtown, from…” he reads the name and wheezes in laughter. “… from thayerfucker69.”

Shane starts to laugh. “thayerfucker69… I love that.”

“thayerfucker69 says: #postmortem Let’s say KISS actually are intergalactic beings with superpowers. I’ve heard Paul can predict the future, like something with his eye. What if the song Detroit Rock City was prediction? What if she was killed there and the band somehow knew something was going to happen, even before she joined?”

Shane grins in amusement as Ryan reads. “I mean…” he says when Ryan finishes, “that is a pretty interesting idea.”

“I mean you are taking into consideration an Internet theory perpetuated, probably by the same people who religiously watch Ancient Aliens.”

“Surprised you’re not a member of that crowd, Ryan,”

“I don’t watch Ancient Aliens!”

“I don’t believe that.”

“I—hey, fuck you, man.”

Shane laughs.

“Anyway…” Ryan turns back to the camera. “It would be cool if that theory was true, that KISS really are intergalactic superpowered beings… but I just don’t think it is. If they really were intergalactic superpowered beings, it just seems really outta left field for them to start a rock band on Earth.”

“I do think it would be kinda fun to see the future, though. But just for like, innocent things, like to see if my mom’s going to survive a life-threatening illness or what I’m going to get for lunch tomorrow.”

Ryan looks at him with an odd look. “… Those two are both very different from each other.”

Shane shrugs. “I dunno…” He starts laughing. “Anyway… fun theory. Would be a nice fanfic.”

“Yeah, I can see that existing in fanfic, but not in real life.”

“Like aliens building the Great Pyramids.”

“Fuck you, Shane.” Shane laughs. Ryan shakes his head at him and turns back to the camera. “Well, that does it for this episode of BuzzFeed Unsolved: Postmortem. Be sure to watch the next episode this Friday and send in your questions to the Buzzfeed Unsolved Facebook page, the Instagram page, and comment on the video directly and maybe you’ll be featured on the next postmortem.”

Ryan sighs as the music fades away to more dramatic music. “And with that…” he says, turning to Shane, who has his phone out.

Shane begins to read. “Our weekly Q+A concluded, I now welcome you to the part of the show we call the Hot Daga, the Hot Dog Saga commissioned by—”

“Wait,”

The voice comes from off camera. The music cuts off and Shane stops reading as he and Ryan look up. “What?” Shane asks.

“There’s one more question for you to read.”

Ryan frowns. “But I thought that was all the questions we were gonna do.”

“No, there’s one more. It’s a surprise question.”

“Oohh, a surprise question?” Shane looks intrigued as a woman comes up to them and goes to stand beside Ryan.

“Open your phone,” she instructs, “and go to Instagram. It’s a private post.”

“Okay…” Ryan does as instructed and looks down at his phone as the woman leaves the shot. His eyes widen. “Oh my God…”

“What?”

“It’s from… Okay, I’ll just read it out loud.”

Ryan sits forward and starts to read. “For the postmortem: Hi guys! This is Heather McMann. Excuse the username, trappinguy, I’m borrowing my nephew’s Instagram account for this. You did a great job! Very thorough research, Ryan! Yes, there was a lot of tabloid crap surrounding my argument with Paul, but Paul is right in saying it had nothing to do with What Happened. I will say that I couldn’t have been dating Paul at this time, as the papers insisted—he was in another relationship and I would never do anything to wreck that. Also I was disappointed that you didn’t include the story of how when the band was in Paris on the Unmasked tour Ace made out with Eric after another guy tried to hit on Eric. But I suppose it doesn’t have anything to do with why I disappeared, so I understand. Great video, looking forward to more BuzzFeed Unsolved! #postmortem #boogaraalltheway Cheers, Heather.”

There is silence as Ryan finishes reading. He stares at the phone for a second, then looks up at Shane. “… It’s Heather McMann.”

Shane stares at the phone. “… No way. This isn’t real.”

“I dunno… She did mention the thing about Paris. And the relationship thing. I didn’t even know Paul was in a relationship during this time.”

“… Damn. Now I actually don’t want to do the Hot Daga.” Ryan bursts out laughing, while Shane looks incredibly serious. “How am I gonna follow this?”

Ryan looks at the camera, laughing. “Well, Heather McMann, if this is really you, congratulations. You have single-handedly made Shane Madej unwilling to give us another episode of the Hot Daga. Nice job.”

“Yeah, great job! You are easily the most mysterious woman I’ve ever encountered in my life!”

“Will we get another episode of the Hot Daga next week?”

“Yes.” Ryan visibly sighs in disappointment. Shane points at the camera. “Will we see more adventures with Maizy and her friends? Tune in next week to find out on BUN!”

[kindahoping4forever]

Don't Wanna Wait On It // Calum Hood

If you were on my blog at all yesterday, you probably saw that it was @cal-puddies' birthday. 🥳 She's written so many amazing Cal fics over the years and we've co-written some great ones but I decided it'd be a nice birthday treat if I surprised her with a good and filthy smut starring her man, that she didn't have to be creatively involved with at all. I rarely write for Cal and I've never written an entire piece without asking for Cass's help even once so this was a little scary for me but I'm happy with how it turned out. And more importantly, she loved it! And she thought Tumblr would love it too and so she's graciously suggested I share it. So, happy Cass's birthday, everyone. 🥰😌

Warnings: Full on PWP - oral and manual stimulation of a female, cockwarming, hints of slight exhibitionism, playfully rough sex including some spanking. One brief scene of weed smoking. A clueless Ashton makes an appearance.

Word Count: 6050

Masterlist // Ko-Fi and 2021 Taglist linked above

Reblogs and feedback are greatly appreciated!

It’s the end of a lazy afternoon in the midst of a lazy day. You sigh contentedly as you push off the side of the pool to float on your back, enjoying the contrast of the hot sun on your face and the cool water running through your hair as you paddle around aimlessly.

Duke’s excited barks from inside the house grab your attention and you turn to look just as Calum steps out and shuts the glass door behind him.

You call out excitedly, “Baby! You’re home! Hi! I was just getting out, come sit with me!”

Your boyfriend chuckles at your enthusiasm and makes his way over to the furniture across the patio. You feel him watching with interest as you lift yourself out of the pool, so you decide to give him a little show: stretching your arms above your head, shaking your hair out, making sure he’s undoubtedly aware of how well your bikini fits you. You finally wrap your towel around yourself and shuffle over to the couch where he’s sitting, moving quickly so that the hot pavement doesn’t scorch the bottoms of your feet.

As soon as you’re within reach, Cal is pulling you onto his lap and letting his hands explore your body while he smothers your neck and face with kisses; you laugh and playfully try to wriggle away from him until he finally reaches your lips and you both quietly murmur in acknowledgement of how much you missed each other.

“How was the studio, Bubba?” You ask, scratching at his scruff.

He shrugs. “Good day… long.”

A voice behind you interjects, “Oh, your Bubba absolutely killed it in the studio today but of course he’s not gonna say that.”

Calum quietly claims, “I was about to tell you…” as your head whips around towards the voice; you can’t say you’re surprised to see Ashton laughing at his own comment as he carries a tray with a pitcher of iced tea and three glasses.

“Oh, hey, Ash. Didn’t realize you were here,” you say, nudging Cal pointedly as you shift out of his lap onto the seat next to him.

Cal mouths a quick “sorry” in your direction but Ash remains oblivious, setting the tray on the table and pouring glasses for each of you. “Got a little writing to finish up after dinner but thought a change of scenery, some time out by the pool could be good for inspiration,” he explains.

“Oh, staying for dinner too?” You ask, raising your eyebrows at your boyfriend.

Ash grins as he hands you both your drinks. “Well… I offered to man the grill… think that’s what scored me the invite to be honest.”

You chuckle and clink his glass. “Sounds like our guy.”

Calum laughs and protests, “Can you not talk about me like I'm not sitting right here?”

Ashton cackles while you blow a kiss to Cal and he responds to you both with his middle finger.

Ash’s laughter turns to confusion as he pats over his pockets before asking Cal, “Mate, did you ever give me back my lighter?” He wiggles a joint between his fingers as explanation for his question.

Calum furrows his brow before realization spreads across his face. “Ohhh, it’s probably still in the pants I changed out of when we got here. Sorry, man,” he apologizes and taps you to move your legs out of his lap so he can get up.

Ashton holds up his hands to stop him. “Nah, you’re comfy, I can snag it,” he offers, heading for the house.

As soon as he’s out of earshot, Calum pulls you back over to lay across his lap and wraps his arms around you.

“I’m sorry, darlin’, I meant to give you a heads up before we got home but we got caught up talking and then when I came out here and saw you in this swimsuit…”

“All common sense and blood flow left your brain?”

He snorts, squeezing your ass. “Yeah, basically.”

You smirk, “Well… that was kind of my intention when I put this on, when I thought it’d just be you finding me out here.”

“Yeah,” he says sheepishly. “We could’ve finished up our work tomorrow but Matt’s up in the woods for the week and you know Ash hates an empty house so when he mentioned dinner…”

You peck Cal’s lips. “You know I don’t mind having him here, Bubba, it’s fine. Especially if he’s cooking for us,” you laugh. “Just means I’ve gotta wait to have my way with you now.” You wink and squeeze his thigh, appreciating that it feels as strong as it looks in the shorts he’s wearing.

“Well,” Cal starts with a mischievous glint in his eye, pulling you closer. “I don’t remember saying anything about waiting, do you?”

Before you can ask him what he means by that, he kisses you slow and hungry, tongue teasing yours just enough to remind you of its skill, hands running over your skin just enough to make you even more disappointed you don’t have the house to yourselves.

“You two are far too lovey for this weather,” Ashton interrupts you once again, flopping himself into the lounge chair opposite you and taking a gulp of his iced tea. “Just looking at you is making me sweat.”

“And here I always thought you’d be the type who likes to watch,” Cal cracks, bursting into a fit of laughter at the begrudgingly amused expression on his friend’s face.

“I don’t know, Ash, you’d probably be more comfortable if you weren’t out here fully dressed. Cal can lend you something more comfortable,” you point out, gesturing at his button down shirt and jeans versus the tank and shorts Cal changed into.

Calum can barely contain his laughter as he piles on, “That’s true… although I guess if anything we should be glad he’s moved on from wearing the black jeans regardless of temperature.”

“Well and don’t forget he’s got the sandals, I’m sure those are making all the difference,” you chime in with a wide smile.

Ashton shakes his head, clearly biting the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing at your jokes. You and Cal chuckle knowingly until Ash balls up two napkins and shoots them in your direction, causing you both to giggle even more. “How do I always end up the butt of the joke with you two?” He complains good-naturedly, reaching into his shirt pocket and retrieving the joint and lighter. “Think you both could use a time out.”

“If it’s just us that need the time out then why’re you about to smoke with us, pal?” Cal replies, eyes already laughing at whatever Ash’s answer might be.

“You guys need it, I deserve it for having to put up with your guys’ shit,” he quips with the joint between his teeth. He sparks it and takes a long hit before leaning to pass it to you. “And for the record, everyone, since you’re so concerned about my personal temperature, I did unbutton my shirt when we came out here. So I did in fact, make steps to adjust to the climate.” He dramatically raises his arms, letting his shirt fall open for emphasis.

You exchange an amused look with Cal as you pass him the joint. “It’s like you always say, babe, the nips really are the key to everything,” you wink at him.

His face instantly warms and he pokes at you, laughing. “Hey, how did we end up back on me?!”

The three of you continue smoking together and razzing each other until the high takes over and the giggly conversation defaults into your usual stoned activities: the men lazily scrolling on their phones and you being absentmindedly affectionate with Cal while you quietly sing along to whoever’s playlist ended up connected to the Bluetooth speaker.

You hum to yourself, running your hands through Cal’s hair; you love that he’s left it long, you’d been complaining that you missed his curls for what feels like forever. Your impaired state causes you to become fascinated specifically with his blonde streaks and you meticulously comb through his hair, finding each light piece to twirl around your fingers before moving on to the next.

Calum leans into your touch, occasionally closing his eyes and murmuring appreciatively when you scratch at his scalp. His fingers sleepily rub over your thighs, calloused tips deliciously rough against your soft skin. You feel his eyes travel up and down your body every so often, appreciating how your bikini accentuates your curves even underneath the sheer coverup you have on.

Every time he checks you out, his hand sneaks up your leg just a little bit higher, something you don’t notice until his fingers are caressing your inner thigh, and momentarily brush against your clothed pussy. You’re confident it was an accident so you don’t say anything but when it happens again a few moments later, you look at him curiously and catch him staring at you intently.

“What are you doing?” You whisper, glancing over at Ashton, who’s still entranced by his phone.

Your boyfriend shrugs and gives you That Look that you know means he’s in a mood. “Just missed you today, gorgeous.”

You shiver at the rasp in his voice; you’re not sure if it’s from desire or having smoked but it goes straight to your core. “Well I missed you too, baby, but --” You stop short, whatever concern you were about to express completely fading from your mind at the feeling of Cal’s fingers sliding under the leg of your bikini bottoms. He licks his lips when he finds you wet and it makes your stomach flip.

“What were you saying about missing me, darlin’?” He teases, naughty smile spreading across his face as his fingers trace through your folds.

You’re sure the position you’re laying in obscures his movements but just in case, you casually throw your discarded towel over your lower half. “Well. If someone hadn’t slept in this morning, there would’ve been time to fool around before it was time to leave for the studio,” you tease back.

Calum smirks as he purposefully grazes your clit and you just about fly out of his lap. “And if someone hadn’t insisted on another round last night, there wouldn’t have been a need to hit snooze in the first place,” he argues, watching as your eyes flutter, you trying to remain reactionless to the circles he’s drawing on your clit.

“Well. We can call it a draw,” you concede, breathing deep to steady yourself.

He chuckles and you can tell he’s about to make another teasing comment when Ash’s loud voice startles you both from your game. Calum stills his hand but leaves it inside your bottoms, essentially cupping your pussy under the cover of the towel.

“Groceries just got here!” He announces, pointing to the notification on his phone. “You guys hungry yet?”

Cal pointedly stares at you and answers, “I could definitely eat.” His eyes shine as you suck in a breath, feeling his fingers lightly start moving again. “Think this one is more thirsty than anything else.” You shake your head at him, amused but annoyed at his audacity.

“Oh, well you can go ahead and finish off that tea, I think we’re done with it,” Ashton tells you as cheerily heads for the house, too high and focused on his cooking plans to think about your and Cal’s curious interactions.

Cal quietly snorts as you pinch his thigh while sweetly calling after his friend, “Sounds great, Ash, thanks!”

Your boyfriend doesn’t even wait for Ash to shut the door before he’s pulling you up to straddle him. “Finally some alone time,” he mumbles, tugging your coverup over your head and planting his face inside your bikini, between your breasts.

You giggle at his eagerness and the tickle of his stubble. “Not enough time to do whatever it is you’re thinking, Cal, he’s just sorting the groceries and getting what he needs for the grill,” you point out, combing your fingers through his hair as he sucks your nipple through your top.

“Not enough time,” he mutters skeptically. “Wanna bet?”

Curious what he has in mind, you murmur your agreement and suddenly in one swift and graceful motion, Calum shifts to lay across the seat and pulls you over his face.

“Baby!” You half whisper, half shriek, grabbing the arm of the couch for stability.

You feel him smile against your thigh, gently biting at your skin as he tugs your bikini bottoms to the side. “Told you I could eat,” he quips before giving a long lick up your center.

You gasp as he immediately gets to work, fingers digging into your thighs as he holds you against him while he drags his tongue up and down your folds, groaning at the taste of your wetness. He teases around your clit, refusing to add any pressure, just lightly batting it back and forth with the tip of his tongue before moving away from it again. It should frustrate you but it just makes you want him even more.

“Caaaaal,” you whine, trying to grind against his face and exhaling disappointedly when you meet resistance from the grip he has on you. “This is your plan? Being a tease right now? Ash is gonna be back any second, you’re gonna get me all worked up for nothing.”

You jump at the feeling of his tongue quickly gliding up to your clit, flicking over it rapidly before he wraps his lips around it and starts sucking; your hands fly down to his curls, trying to encourage him to stay there but he loudly pulls off after a few seconds. “That better, darlin’?” He taunts, breathless and amused. His hands travel to your ass and squeeze tight as he chuckles, “If you’re still thinking about Ash while I’m doing this, I’m obviously not working hard enough.”

You playfully glare at him. “You know what I mean, I just want to make sure we both get what we need. Why don’t we sneak into the bathroom and get off there? I’ll say I need to shower before dinner and something’s wrong with the water, you have to come help me,” you suggest, eyes scanning the house suspiciously before you reach behind you and palm the tent in his shorts. “What do you say, big boy?”

Cal bucks into your touch, allowing you to stroke him through the material for a moment before he shrugs and replies, “This is more fun.” He lifts up to flutter his tongue on your clit before stopping to add, “And you know Ash is in there getting distracted by about a billion things and you know we’ll hear his loud ass coming out here before he’s close enough to see anything. What do you say, baby girl?”

He waits for your response, softly massaging your ass. You glance back at the house one last time before looking down at him with a twinkle in your eye as you roll your hips over him; his tongue instinctively darts out to taste you but you lift up right before you make contact. The growl you receive in return is instantly worth denying yourself that moment of pleasure.

“Now who’s teasing?” He mutters through a devilish grin, firmly swatting you.

You roll your hips again, this time letting yourself settle over his mouth, hissing when he easily starts circling your clit. “The only score you should be keeping right now is how many times you can make me cum before we either stop or get caught,” you declare, head lolling back as he flattens his tongue and guides your hips, helping you work yourself against him.

The two of you fall silent as you ride his face, you doing your best to hold in your noises, a task easier said than done with the way he’s quietly groaning into your pussy. The only thing Cal loves more than eating you out is how much you love when he eats you out. He knows you can’t be as vocal as he’d like right now but that’s not stopping him from employing all his best moves to pull what sounds from you he can; every clipped moan, every swallowed sigh, every whisper of his name is what he’s living for right now.

He licks at you with determination, his scruff tickling and scratching your skin deliciously, the sensation heightening your experience. His hands knead your ass, fingers repeatedly dancing awfully close to your tight hole and you can’t help wishing he’d tease you there, even just a little bit, even though you know there’s no time.

The thought of Calum playing with your ass takes things to another level for you and you feel that familiar burning sensation in your belly starting to spread. “Oh god, Cal,” you whine as quietly as you can, grabbing at your tits, tugging at your own nipples hurriedly. “Oh god, oh god, baby… I’m there. Please, Cal… fuck.”

He murmurs encouragingly, continuing to swirl his tongue on your clit while his lips form a seal around it, kissing and sucking at it with just the right amount of speed and suction to build your climax. Your legs begin to shake so he grabs at them to hold you on his mouth and the rough gesture adds just enough pressure to send you over the edge.

You squeak and sputter, trying as hard as you can not to scream as the pleasure overwhelms you. Cal’s mouth stays hard at work while you thrash and pant above him, refusing to budge until he feels you go slack in his hold.

“Good girl, baby… so, so good,” he praises you, voice deep with desire. His tattooed hands steady you while you swing your leg around to climb off him and he pulls you in to lay beside him on the couch. He pushes back your hair, still damp from the pool, and gazes at you adoringly. “Taste so good when you cum, my darlin’. Can never get enough,” he murmurs before kissing you slowly.

You hum against his lips, tasting yourself on them. “Mmm… pretty good but I’ve tasted better,” you grin, sliding your hand in his shorts and gripping his cock. As you expected, you find him already hard and leaking for you but you give him a few strokes anyway, admiring the way his brow furrows and his eyes squeeze shut as your hand moves on him. You smile to yourself as you study him: hair wild from your hands tugging at it, face still shiny with your arousal, lips swollen from pleasing you, now parting to form the shape of your name as you touch him. God, you couldn’t love him more.

You start to tell him as much when he suddenly yanks your wrist from his shorts and reaches for his phone, propping his head up on one hand and loudly laughing at an imaginary joke. After a few seconds of confusion, you catch onto his strange behavior and force a giggle of your own seconds before Ashton rounds the corner, carrying a tray of buns, hamburger patties and veggie burgers over to the barbecue.

“Not having too much fun without me, are ya?” He chuckles at his not particularly funny comment.

“Impossible,” you call over to him, smirking at Cal. Your eyes never leave your boyfriend’s as you lift your hand to your mouth and lick at the precum you collected on your fingers before you were rudely interrupted. “Like I said, much better,” you whisper to him, loving the way his eyes narrow as he watches you.

Ashton loudly announces to no one in particular that he needs to go back and grab the fries and onion rings before he gets started and he heads back towards the house. This time it’s you who can’t wait for him to leave, hands tugging at Cal’s shorts again as soon as Ash is past the couch.

“Cal… baby, I need you,” you desperately state the obvious. You plant a heated kiss on him as your mind files through different scenarios to aid your dilemma.

Before you can settle on one to suggest, he peels off his tank and reaches over to grab your towel again. “Flip over for me, would you, gorgeous?” He asks sweetly, draping the towel across your waists.

A shiver runs down your spine as you realize what he’s thinking. You know Cal has a bit of an exhibitionist streak in him but you’re also confident he’s probably not about to flat out fuck you in front of his friend. You face away from him and lean back to snuggle in. “Am I about to keep you warm, Bubba?”

He pecks your shoulder as his fingers trace the edge of your bottoms again. “Just until we figure out something better,” he says, a smile in his voice. “Just need to be in you, baby… just want to feel you around me.”

The neediness in his voice makes you absolutely weak. You feel your breath get measurably heavier as you say, “Fuck, I want that too, Cal… come on quick, slip it in before he gets back… I don’t think I'm gonna be able to keep quiet when I first feel you, baby… you just fill me up so perfectly.”

Calum whimpers at your words, pulling his cock out through his fly, grunting your name quietly as he pumps himself a few times. You shift your legs to accommodate him and hold your bikini to the side, waiting. He runs his tip through your folds, the both of you groaning at the contact. He’s barely gotten the head of his cock inside you before he has to reach around and cover your mouth to muffle the satisfied noises you’re making.

He kisses along the back of your neck as he continues to push in. “Shhh,” he soothes, voice strained as he struggles to contain his own reaction. “I know it feels good, darlin’. You always feel so good wrapped around me. So tight and warm.”

He bottoms out and drops his hand from your mouth to your breasts, gently massaging them. He gives a long, low groan in your ear and it takes everything in you to fight the overwhelming urge you’re having to move your hips, clench down, anything to hear that sound again.

“This was a terrible idea, Cal, all I can think about now is cumming on your cock,” you laugh, accidentally tightening around him and the two of you moan in unison.

His response gets swallowed by the booming sounds of Ashton loudly singing a made up song about the dinner menu from across the yard; you take a deep breath, trying to calm your pounding heart while Calum wraps his arm around you, making it seem as if you’re just having a lazy cuddle, nothing unusual about it.

Ash walks past the couch without paying even a momentary glance in your direction and you nearly burst out laughing, stopping just short so that the movement doesn’t give you and Cal away. You hear the grill firing up along with the faint sounds of him turning on some music and you finally relax against your boyfriend, content to be getting away with this escapade, at least for the moment.

His hand finds yours and interlaces your fingers together; you feel him peck your head as he nuzzles into you, taking a deep breath and mumbling something about how good you smell. You close your eyes and bask in everything you’re feeling in this moment. Strong arms holding you, long fingers tightly wrapped around yours, soft lips grazing your neck, hard chest pressed against your back, harder cock buried deep inside you. A cool breeze raises goosebumps on your skin while the warmth from the low afternoon sun kisses them away. It’s quite possible this is heaven.

Cal seems to be on the same wavelength as you, his quiet voice breaking the silence to breathe out, “Fuck… I love you, baby.”

You smile and squeeze his hand, loving that he can make you feel so much with so few words. “I love you too, Bubba.” You kiss his knuckles and sigh, “I love being close with you like this. Having you surround me, fill me… feel so perfect inside me, Cal.”

“I’d stay just like this forever if we could,” he says softly. He waits a beat, then corrects himself, “Well. Ideally, we’d both get to cum at some point and Ash wouldn’t be on the other side of the yard but you know what I mean.”

The giggle that escapes you is quickly followed by a muted whine as you feel Cal react by squeezing your hand ridiculously tight to keep himself from bucking into you. You turn your head slightly to apologize but instead find yourself being swept up in the desperate kiss he’s planting on you.

He pulls back and looks you over, a mixture of fondness and lust in his eyes; he pauses and you can practically see the wheels turning in his mind. You wonder out loud what he’s thinking and he smiles at you mischievously, offering you another kiss instead of an explanation. You get lost in it until you feel his hand travel down your belly, under the towel and into your bikini.

“That wasn’t part of the plan,” you smirk, chewing the inside of your lip as his fingers rub circles around your already sensitive clit.

“Now all I can think about is you cumming on my cock,” he grins. “Think you can keep quiet?”

“Can you?” You tease, squeezing around him.

Calum pinches your ass in retaliation and you accidentally let out a squeal at the sensation. You both freeze, waiting to see if Ash heard and is going to turn around to investigate. Cal can’t hold in a wheeze laugh as the two of you watch your friend remain totally oblivious, whistling along to his music, happily arranging the food he’s grilling.

“You’re gonna pay for that, missy,” he warns playfully.

“Promise?”

“You brat,” he says, love dripping from his voice. He suddenly adds pressure to your clit and you lurch forward, reeling from the satisfying shock. “You gonna be good so I can be nice and make you cum again?”

You nod breathlessly, grimacing from the intensity of the pleasure and the way you already feel it building. One hand plays with your tits, the other keeps a steady rhythm between your legs. Calum has always been a very perceptive lover, able to read your needs from the way your body responds to him; this skill serves him well in cases like this where you’re trying to keep the volume to a minimum and you’re shocked at how close he's able to bring you in such a short amount of time.

“Cal,” you whisper sharply, rocking on him ever so slightly. Recognizing your tone, he grunts softly and pushes his hips against you, making sure he’s filling you as deeply as he possibly can. That extra pressure, along with the rough tug he gives your nipple sets you off and your pussy starts pulsing around him.

You’re determined not to make any noise but as your orgasm wrecks through you, it becomes clear you wouldn't be able to speak even if you tried. Calum keeps working your clit while his other hand holds a steady grip across your chest, keeping your writhing at bay. You hear a series of quiet growls escape his throat as he grits his teeth, stubbornly holding out on his own pleasure despite the way you’re tightening on his cock.

You finally slump back against him, stilling his hand on you. You try to tell him how good it felt, how you can’t believe how good he is to you, how much you love him but all that comes out are awed gasps and exhausted pants for air.

Of course, he seems to understand, lips pecking at your neck and shoulders, hand clasping yours again, his thumb sweetly caressing yours as you come down. Once you appear to have settled, you feel him loosen his grip around you and slowly start pulling out, his breath catching as he leaves your warmth.

He cleans his cock with the towel, groaning as he carefully puts it away; you’re amazed at how swollen and angry it looks, precum forming at the tip even though he just wiped it clean a moment ago. He’s been so generous with you today, he’s so generous with you always… you need to make him cum. You need to make him cum now.

You lean over to peck his lips and then you’re on your feet, slipping your coverup over your head again. “Meet me in the kitchen,” you instruct, smoothing your clothes and hair. Cal looks at you quizzically and you wink at him. “Trust me. I’ll be there in a minute.”

You casually walk over to the barbecue, taking a long, exaggerated sniff. “Mmm, smells so good, Ash!” You enthuse, hoping your appearance doesn’t give away the fact you’ve had two orgasms since he left you and Cal alone.

“Hope you’re hungry,” he boasts, making a big show of flipping the burgers in front of you.

Out of the corner of your eye, you spot Calum quietly slipping inside the house. “Always,” you say happily. “Hey, you about ready for the condiments and veggies?”

Ash looks delighted at your offer. “Yeah! I’ve got the onions out here to grill but everything else is still on the counter. Veggies need washed… tomatoes need sliced. You know, all that.”

You nod helpfully. “Cool, we can do that!”

He turns towards the couch to wave a thanks at Cal and you quickly explain, “We figured it was time so he went in the house to get started. I’m gonna go help him out.”

He nods, satisfied with your answer. “Awesome! Tell him thanks for me,” he chirps, turning back to the grill.

“Will do!” You grin, heading for the house, pleased that your plan worked so easily.

You’ve barely shut the door behind you when you feel Calum press you into it, cock still hard and ready for you.

“Now what if something had gone wrong and Ash had followed me in here, hmm?” You tease, grinding your ass against him.

“Then he’d be in for a hell of a show because I can’t wait any longer to fuck you,” he states simply. He turns you around, kissing you hard against the door before tapping your leg, which you know means he wants you to hop up and wrap your legs around him; you do as he requests and he continues kissing you as he carries you over to the dining room table. He leans you against it as he peels off your coverup so he can kiss your neck, immediately working on sucking marks down your cleavage.

“Baby, I said the kitchen so that if we heard him coming, we could at least have a chance of looking like we’re doing something else,” you laugh.

He shrugs and gestures towards the kitchen window that’s in sight. “We’ll keep an eye out, we’ll see him coming,” he insists, nibbling your skin.

“So then when do I get to see you coming?” You flirt, reaching down to squeeze him through his shorts.

He grabs your hand off of him and holds it behind your back as he spins you around to bend you over the table. “Probably gonna be sooner than I’d like,” he laughs, giving your ass a firm swat.

You give an excited murmur as you feel him finally tug your bikini bottoms down your legs; you step out of them and bite your lip in anticipation at the sound of his shorts rustling and then suddenly you feel him tapping his cock up and down your ass, dripping precum on it because he can.

You’re about to comment but then he’s kicking at your feet for you to spread further and then his cock is inside you once again. You moan louder than intended but you’re still sensitive from your recent orgasms and the feeling of Cal effortlessly filling you is unbelievable.

“OK, darlin’?” He checks in, voice straining as he holds himself still, waiting for your answer.

“Won’t be until you fuck me, Cal.”

Those words unleash the side of your boyfriend that he's been fighting since he got home, the side you were hoping would come out to play when you put on that swimsuit earlier. He presses his palm down on the small of your back and digs the fingers of his other hand into your hip as he begins roughly fucking into you, your body repeatedly sliding up and down the table from the force.

You grip onto the edge of the table, hoping to gain some purchase, but then you feel him give your ass an open-handed smack, sending you forward again. You moan his name as he rubs the sting on your skin away before delivering another slap to the same tender spot. By the time he gives the same treatment to your other cheek, you’re a heaving, whining mess.

“That’s for earlier,” he growls, smirking at the pleasured noise you give in reply.

He drives his cock into you, each curve and ridge hitting exactly where you need it; between the spanks, his powerful thrusts and the desperate groans pouring from him, you’re not surprised when you feel the beginnings of a third orgasm stirring inside you.

“Another, baby?” He asks, recognizing your breathing and the way your legs are starting to lock up. You nod hastily, impatiently slipping your hand down your body to help yourself out. He hits his hips into you harder, giving you some extra friction as you touch yourself. “Yeah, darlin’, that’s it… fuckin’ give it to me.”

Cal knows you well enough to know delivering another strike to your ass will trigger your orgasm and he keeps up the harsh pace of his thrusts as you cum around him, walls closing in on his cock as he moves. You breathlessly huff his name, exhausted but elated from how good he’s making you feel.

“Oh yeah… that’s my good girl… cumming for me so many times today. Such a good fuckin’ girl,” he praises you, his last few words sounding slightly choked as his hips start to stutter.

One last burst of lust surges through your veins and you rush out, “Anywhere you want, baby!”

He curses under his breath as he pulls out and quickly tugs you down onto your knees. You reach out and scratch your nails up and down his thighs, murmuring encouragement as he pumps his cock over you. He reverently breathes your name one last time and then he’s painting your chest with ropes of hot cum, aiming for your cleavage but also streaking your swimsuit with his release.

Calum’s hand slows, squeezing the last few drops out and he groans loudly when you lean forward and wrap your lips around the head of his cock to slurp up what he’s drawn out. You pop off of him and the two of you stare at each other for a beat before laughing in disbelief.

“Sorry about the bikini,” he chuckles shyly, helping you back to your feet.

“Gonna think about this every time I wear it now,” you admit with a naughty smile, thanking him silently as he wipes your chest with a nearby dishtowel.

He grins back at you. “Well… you’re welcome then.” He hooks your chin to bring you into a kiss and your tongues lazily tangle together as you take a moment to settle down.

You pull away and giggle, “It’s actually a good thing Ash is here, I feel like I’ve worked up a pretty nice appetite now. Let's clean up and have some dinner!”

Cal looks you up and down, That Look in his eye again. “Dinner sounds great, darlin’, but if I'm honest, I'm already thinking about what I might want for dessert,” he says suggestively, pulling you back to his lips.

@conversecake @cxddlyash @cashtonasfuck @talkfastromance4 @camelliastreet @itjustkindahappenedreally @saywhatnow07 @mymindwide @suchalonelysunflower @pxrxmoore @findingliam-o @fedorable-killjoys @trix-arent-for-kids @olivia-foster-irwin @saphseoul @calmsweetcreature @onthecliffside-mgc @feliznavidaddycal @himbohood @maggiesupertramp @karajaynetoday @ashtonangst @sunshineeashton @aladyofalbion @youngblood199456 @xsongbirdx @fairytrice @calumrose @irwindoll @polycashton @in-superbloom @2fangirl4u @highstwildflower @t3lkfast @bport76

[ahundredtimesover]

Fight for You (03) | JJK

Pairing: Jungkook x (f.) Reader

Genre/Tags: bodyguard!jk x heiress!reader; angst, smut (18+)

Chapter Warnings (series warnings in the masterlist!): foul language, mentions of toxic parents, child neglect, pregnancy difficulties, sexist themes, insecurities; alcohol consumption, unwanted advances in a club; unrequited feelings, rejection, angry jk and sad oc ☹️

Chapter Word count: 12.2k

Series Summary: Working at a private security agency has its perks. The downside? Being the personal bodyguard of spoiled, rich heiresses like you. But there are things that Jungkook didn’t expect, like rejecting you, falling for you, and realizing what he’d been missing all along.

A/N: Hi! Still on a little break and chapters will still be posted as scheduled. 😊 I’ve seen your feedback and messages and appreciate them all! And huge thank you to Ash @jimilter​ for this wonderful banner! 💞

Listen to: Don’t Blame Me and So It Goes by Taylor Swift

Series Masterlist || Previous | Next

##

It’s Tuesday when Jungkook sees you next, as you’d informed him that you’ll be skipping work on Monday and that he had the day-off since you’ll just spend it at home.

He takes advantage of his free day. He gets his groceries done, has his suits dry cleaned which thankfully, he has allowance for, tidies up his tiny apartment, and spends a good couple of hours at the gym with Jin, who’s glad that he doesn’t need to stay later than closing hours to accommodate his younger friend. 

Jungkook enters the passenger seat and just like clockwork, you ask him how his weekend went.

“Good,” he replies. “I did some errands.”

Silence follows and he wonders if he’d just imagined responding to you until he turns to the backseat and sees your shocked face, eyes wide and lips slightly parted.

“Did you just answer my question?”

“You asked,” he shrugs, earning him a chuckle from Mr. Sim who’s just as surprised, knowing that Jungkook rarely indulges you.

“Yeah but I didn’t expect you’d actually say something.”

“Neither did I,” Jungkook shakes his head.

It’s when you spot the small smile on his face that you feel your heart skip a beat at a sight you’d only imagined you’d see, one you definitely want to see more of.

It’s easily another highlight of your week. Between your stay at Jeju and your birthday lunch at home, you’d like to think that you’re on your way to slowly melting the cold exterior of your beloved bodyguard.

You’ve seen him make sure you’re always shielded from the rain because of how quickly you get sick. You note how he makes sure you tell the server of your garlic allergy ever since that one time you forgot and you itched all through the night.

He didn’t resist your little gift of a blue suit for your birthday, and you didn’t miss the way he watched you intently during the party, especially when one of the guys got too near you. 

Mr. Sim narrated how Jungkook had you in his arms the whole ride home after you were passed out drunk. It’s bittersweet how you don’t even remember it, knowing he was so close yet you also might’ve said some things in your sleep that you’d rather he didn’t hear.

It surprised you that he agreed to sleep over then and even had lunch at your place, sitting quietly as he enjoyed the food and greeting you happy birthday again before he left. 

The piercing stare is still there but he’s dialed down the intensity quite a bit. And now, there’s a smile, albeit it being small and maybe unintentional, as he catches himself and the stoic expression quickly returns. 

You want to comment that it’s a pretty smile and you hope he’d be more comfortable showing it but you keep the thoughts to yourself, basking in the effect it has on you. 

The car stops as you arrive at your office building, and you put your arm out when Jungkook opens the door, waiting for him to take it and pull you out. He waits for you to exit and peeks in when you don’t move.

He cocks an eyebrow at your hand that’s waiting for his.

“Do you need help getting out of the car when you’re perfectly capable of doing so?” 

“I’m still a little dizzy, Jeon,” you fake sounding weak. “Help me please?” 

With your fluttering eyelashes and flirty smile - a sight he’s unfortunately used to - Jungkook sighs and takes your hand. He pulls you out and bows and you giggle at his action.

“May I remind you that you voluntarily carried me in your arms the other night,” you tease. “Helping me out of the car when I’m perfectly capable of doing so is nothing.”

“May I remind you that having no choice does not make it voluntary,” he retorts, as you slow your walk so you could match his pace. “It’s not like I could wheelchair you out of there when you’re drunk out of your ass.”

“Having an option doesn’t mean that you had no choice, then,” you cock an eyebrow this time. “Plus, that wasn’t even my worst.”

“That wasn’t your worst?” He exclaims.

“I didn’t puke on you, okay? That would’ve been so embarrassing.” You pout. “At least I didn’t drool or sleep talk.”

“Who said you didn’t?”

You feel the color drain from your face as you turn to him with a horrified look, hoping to the heavens that you didn’t actually do unattractive things while the man you’re attracted to was trying to keep you from humiliating yourself in front of others. 

Jungkook catches himself before he laughs, knowing that would be a giveaway that he doesn’t dislike you as much as he used to. You’re still not his favorite person but he won’t lie and say that the past week didn’t change the way he thinks of you. 

You’re clearly competent, as he’s aware enough of business personalities to know that not just anybody gets a deal with the Wongs and you secured one last week. You’re also not a snotty brat, given how you treat like family those who serve you, like Mrs. Hwang and Mr. Sim. 

You’re also not that superficial, at least all the time, since during your birthday lunch, your conversations with Yoongi and Hoseok revolved around the state of music and arts education in the country. Jungkook was surprised to learn that day that you’ve been pushing your parents to launch a scholarship program in your family’s Foundation but that they don’t seem to take you seriously. 

These all hit him in ways he didn’t expect, knowing that he came in this job with preconceived notions about who you are, which he realized are not completely accurate. But still, you’re his employer and client. Not being the rich, spoiled brat that he’s used to protecting still doesn’t mean that you could be friends and that he would ever consider giving in to your flirting attempts.

But you looking mortified at the thought of drooling and sleep talking in front of him is giving him a bit of satisfaction and entertainment.

You cover your face the same way you did when you found him in your house, clad in mermaid pajamas and bare-faced - far from how you’re used to presenting yourself to others. 

“I’m so humiliated,” you whine, exiting the elevator and walking straight to your room. 

He feels a little bad so he follows you. “I’m kidding. You didn’t drool, and you were only mumbling things. Nothing to blackmail you with.”

You scowl at him. 

“It was pretty calming, actually,” Jungkook says, surprising himself.

“Not infuriating as I usually am?” You give him a smug, suddenly gaining confidence. “Are you slowly starting to enjoy my company?”

“I said nothing of that sort, Ms. Lee,” he says, using formalities when he wants to reinforce his boundaries with you. Or to annoy you, like now.

“Hmm, okay then,” you smile. “I can pretend you didn’t just say it felt calming to be with me.”

He wants to retort that you’re twisting his words but it’ll be another back and forth that he doesn’t want to have, as he’d given away too much already. So he playfully shakes his head and couldn’t help the second small smile he cracks today, and he’s thankful that just like earlier, you don’t say a thing.

**

It’s later in the week when your parents arrive from their weeks-long business trip and you all have dinner at a hotel.

As in usual meals out, Jungkook stands by in the private room with your parents’ security detail, and he notes the absence of any of your favorite food and even a cake to show that this is a birthday dinner that your parents are throwing for you. 

“How was the party?” Your mother inquires. “Did the guests enjoy it? I heard Han-jae was there. His mother mentioned both of you hitting it off again.”

You bite back a gag at the thought of him pinning you against the wall and you’re glad you weren’t too drunk to let him take from you again. It’s safe to say you dislike the man, one you briefly dated before you left for London. 

“They had fun,” you say blankly.

“And Han-jae?” Your mother asks.

“He was there,” you shrug, not wanting to share more.

“The Ims are an influential family, ___. Han-jae’s a prospect to consider for a partner,” your father says. 

At this point, you’re used to it. They’re never subtle when it comes to pairing you off to other wealthy men, but while your mother is shameless about it, your father is a little more careful, perhaps the only time you’re ever thankful that he is. He talks about considering others as your partner but never pushing you towards them. “Just try,” he’d said before.

And you do, but you can easily tell when men try to date you for your wealth or for something sincere. And 9/10 times, it’s the former. 

You’re not like your parents who have one’s social standing as the top qualification. And you’re the type of person who needs love; none of those you dated ever made you feel something close to that.

And you never understood how your parents couldn’t see it, that your family is powerful enough and would be better off on your own. Marrying someone from another powerful family may just make you more vulnerable to losing all that your parents worked hard to achieve. Those families they push you towards aren’t that clean or good either, so how would that help with your family’s image?

You know enough about people and how things work, but you also know enough how your parents think so you remain quiet and agree as what they expect you to.

“Okay,” you say.

You’re appeased once your father starts to discuss the deal with the Wongs and how good the terms were in the first place that got them to sign.

You hum in agreement, your face lighting up at the meeting that they’re calling to discuss the new deal - the one you convinced Mrs. Wong to consider - but it quickly falls once it’s clear that you’re not included. 

You try not to act too upset, as you should’ve expected this, too, but still, you tell your parents what you discussed with her last week in Jeju. You’re satisfied that your father hums and seems to be pleased at everything that transpired, and you consider that enough of a win to get you through.

Jungkook picks up a bit of the discussion and could tell, based on your facial expressions as well, that it wasn’t a great dinner. It finally ends, with your parents greeting you a “happy birthday, by the way,” and saying that their gift has been wired to your bank account already.

You bow and make your way to the car. “Take me to the music store please, Mr. Sim.”

Jungkook stays outside as he’d done the first time, peeking inside to make sure you’re alright. Unlike before, it’s not out of concern for your well-being in the presence of your friends. It’s out of worry, as you lay on Yoongi’s lap while Hoseok sits on the floor facing you, wiping what seems to be tears falling down your face.

**

It’s been a few weeks since your party and since then, you’ve noticed the change in how Jungkook is around you. His look isn’t as intimidating anymore, and he’s had moments when he’d looked you in the eyes while you talked. He looks more relaxed, jaws no longer clenched and eyebrows not anymore perpetually scrunched, the usual stoic and cold expression he has now a little more, well, welcoming. 

He still doesn’t respond to every single question you ask but he’s answered some, the ones that don’t reveal much about him but you take those as little wins. Your favorite part, though, are the moments he holds back a smile or a laugh that you cause, and you can’t deny the way your heart flutters whenever he does.

You reckon it’s not part of his image and you enjoy him cracking a little bit, especially when he purses his lips every time you get embarrassed or when you share to him and Mr. Sim some work accomplishment. 

He’s still the same meticulous and serious bodyguard who assesses every place you go to, reprimands you for going to the same cafe three times in a row, and keeps a close watch during every event you go to. 

You’d like to believe that he’s relieved that your attendance to parties has decreased, no thanks to your “friends” proving to you that they indeed don’t deserve such title, although the fashion shows and movie premieres and galas still continue. He doesn’t resist as much as he used to whenever you get him a new suit to fit the theme of an event, and you revel in the fact that he easily gives in to your requests now.

Jungkook, on the other hand, isn’t as thrilled as you are when it comes to the changes, as he mentally smacks himself every time he answers your questions on how his weekend was or if he’d eaten well or if he wants to take a rest. His smiles and laughter, which he mostly successfully bites back, come naturally. He still curses himself though, as he knows you notice.

“You’re going soft on her, yeah?” Jin has teased. “By the way you talked about her, she never seemed terrible. That was all you.”

Jungkook would usually counter this but he felt he’d be lying if he did. You’re a lot of good things, he’d give you that, and being alone with you is no longer the most terrible thing for him.

It’s why when he got the call that he would have to drive you on a Sunday because Mr. Sim had a family emergency, Jungkook didn’t feel like cursing his own existence. 

He goes to your house as instructed and is met with a surprised look on your face. You’re dressed in jeans and a printed shirt, perhaps the simplest you’ve looked since that morning after your party.

“Oh, Mr. Han called you,” you say. “I told him to get someone else to drive for me because it’s your day-off.”

“Everyone’s on assignment because your uncles are here,” Jungkook explains. “It’s fine, really. I don’t have anything important to do.”

“Okay, then. I would’ve rescheduled but I miss them already,” you say as you walk to the car with him.

“Them?”

“The kids,” you smile. 

**

It’s an orphanage on the outskirts of Seoul, you tell Jungkook, one you visit every Sunday when it’s his day off, hence why he’d never been there before. 

You’d learned about this place because Mr. Sim and his wife adopted their children from there, a lovely brother and sister pair you’d met only a handful of times but know so much about because you enjoy your chauffeur’s stories about them. 

Your curious attitude and knack for learning about people you’re surrounded with is how you found out about this bit about Mr. Sim’s family, and it’s why a few times when you were younger, you’d had  him take you with him whenever he visited, as his children often asked him to say hi to the friends they met there who unfortunately had not been adopted.

It was sometime in college when you started going there regularly just to spend time with the kids. They have such joy and innocence about them, something you wish you had when you were a child. Being there always gives you a sense of warmth because it’s something you didn’t really receive growing up from your own parents, and these children need them, and it’s something you can give. 

You’d play with them, feed them, teach them, and help the staff clean up. You bring clothes, food, and toys as well. You’ve also brought Yoongi and Hoseok there a few times to teach the kids how to play instruments. 

The children love being around people, too. When you were away, you made sure to video call them so they’ll know that they haven’t been forgotten.

There’s been a surge of newborns and toddlers coming in the past weeks and you decided to buy some blankets and toys for them, all of which are in the trunk and ready to be turned over to the staff. 

“Hi, Ina,” you greet the woman who answers the door. “I bought a few things for the kids.”

She turns to your side to find a stack of 4 boxes. “That’s a few?” She giggles. “Come on in.”

Jungkook watches you embrace the woman and do the same with the rest of the staff who come to greet you. 

You introduce him to them and Jungkook bows, familiarizing himself with everyone in this place.

“So, are you two just friends or?” One of them asks.

Jungkook’s eyes widen in horror, which you catch and laugh at. 

“Oh, no. He’s my bodyguard, actually,” you correct. 

“Ahh. I’m sorry for assuming. We’ve just never seen him before and he looks much younger than your previous ones.”

“Yes, and remember how the kids used to be scared of them?” You giggle. 

The staff laugh along, recalling the times when the children would hide behind you when they see “the man in the suit who’s not smiling.” Those older ones always insisted on accompanying you inside and you couldn’t really reprimand them for looking so cold and rigid in front of the kids so you had to make up some story that the man is there to scare the monsters away.

You turn to Jungkook who’s slightly smiling as the staff tell the stories of how even they would get slightly uncomfortable. They look at Jungkook, clad in jeans and a light grey sweatshirt, looking nothing like the intimidating bodyguards you had before with his features that are soft but strong at the same time. 

“I hope he’s okay to help out?” One of them asks. “Some of our volunteers cancelled. And I doubt the kids would be scared of him.”

Jungkook nods in agreement. It’s definitely because the stories you shared of the kids tugged at his heartstrings, and not at all because of how you looked, with puppy dog eyes and a hopeful smile silently asking him to say yes. 

“They’re shy at first but they’ll warm up to you eventually,” Ina says. “They’re just finishing their lunch so we can head to the newborn wing first.”

Jungkook has never been to an orphanage. None of the clients he detailed ever did so he doesn’t really know what to expect. He gets a half hour orientation, though, as the staff tell him the do’s and don'ts of being with the children, surprised when he’s taught how to hold the babies.

He enters the newborn wing and finds you there with a baby in your arms, swaying as you smile at the little human. 

Ina taps him and guides him as he takes the baby in his arms. “We’re usually short on staff on Sundays and these littles ones need to be held, you know? It’s why she always comes here,” Ina says, referring to you. 

He nods and follows suit.

And that’s how you both spend a good part of your afternoon - taking babies in your arms, holding them close, gently massaging their limbs, and humming to them. 

Jungkook looks to you for guidance, and you nod in approval of what he does. He doesn’t sing though, the way you do, but he rubs circles around the baby’s back, allowing himself to close his eyes when he feels the slightest grip in return.

You do this like you’ve been doing it for years and you probably have been, Jungkook thinks. There’s calmness and warmth in your face and your body language. You hold them like you’re telling them a story, like you’re telling them that they’re loved.

Some time after, you and Jungkook are led to a playroom with about 20 children who can’t be older than 7 years old. You tell him to stay by the door first and wait for the kids to be comfortable around him. 

He nods and watches you hug those who hug you. You engage with them so naturally, your smile not fading at all. You read them a book, help them in the slide, and build blocks with them. You’ve never looked so happy.

It’s not long after when a little boy runs to Jungkook, tugging at his arm and pointing at a train set that’s on top of a shelf. He follows the boy and brings down the toy, proceeding to help in setting it up. Pretty soon he finds himself playing, too, with a few more kids joining in, until one of them asks to be carried and Jungkook just couldn’t say no.

It’s the clapping that catches your attention, as you find Jungkook lifting a kid and a whole line of them before him so they could reach up and shoot the basketball on the ring. 

“He’s pretty cute,” Ina whispers from next to you. “I wouldn’t have thought of him as your bodyguard at all although he constantly looks at you,” she hums. “Does he think the kids are a threat?”

You snort. “He takes this job seriously and thinks everybody and everything is a threat so he’s constantly on his toes,” you shrug. “It used to be intimidating but now…” It’s comforting and assuring, you don’t say. 

“Well, the kids for once are not intimidated by your bodyguard,” Ina laughs. “Looks like they’re having fun there with him.”

Jungkook now doesn’t have a reason to bite back a smile or a laugh, as they’re not because of you, hence why they’re on full display right now. He’s clapping and cheering with them, teaching them fancy ways to shoot a ball, and high fives them every time. His boyish charms are shining through, with his smile quite blinding and his laughter so playful, and you find yourself wanting to hear more. But this will do. He’s never looked so happy.

It’s a lot of squealing and laughter, something that Jungkook isn’t used to. These aren’t sounds he grew up hearing. Nor making. He never experienced having toys this pretty and stimulating. He never knew what it felt like to be given affection growing up, doesn’t know what it’s like to be cheered on and applauded, to share laughter and smiles with an adult. 

He’s also never been lovingly tucked in bed, the way you two are doing now for the kids’ afternoon naps.

With an alcoholic father and a mother making ends meet, Jungkook never experienced these things. 

He takes this experience with him, hanging onto that moment of feeling wanted by the children themselves and them being wanted back, something that he could make them feel, even for just a short while. 

The time feels like it passed too quickly, as you both help sort out some toys while the kids napped, and then you tell the staff that you’re almost done with the fundraising plan you offered to make for them so they could get more sponsors. 

You sigh at the mention of your parents still warming to the idea of getting some of the older children the orphanage helps with scholarship support, but the staff tell you that it’s okay, that they all know how hard you work for them and the kids.

It’s goodbyes not long after, as the little ones need to be prepared for dinner then storytelling before bed. 

“There’s a family-run restaurant nearby,” you break the short silence in the car. “Please take me there for dinner.”

It’s a small place with small tables and Jungkook immediately assesses the surroundings, prompting you to laugh at him again.

“Just doing my job,” he scrunches his eyebrows.

“Okay, Jeon,” you smirk. “So, what do you want to have for dinner?”

“Uh, well…” His eyes flit from the small distance between you two, to the menu on the wall, to the car outside, unsure how to handle this situation, as he’d never really shared a meal with you alone, always having Mr. Sim around to not break any sort of boundary that’s been set.

“Still uncomfortable? Well, it’s fine, although your grumbling tummy might think otherwise,” you smile. “You still have to drop me off then commute home. I’m sure the kids drained your energy and you need to eat.”

There’s no teasing tone to your voice, just concern. So he says he’s fine to have dinner with you, to your surprise.

You fumble with your phone while he aggressively shakes his leg, as you both sit on the tiny stools across from each other in this tiny table. Jungkook feels it’s more awkward to just sit in silence so he decides to break it.

“You felt really at home there,” he says. 

You break into a smile. “I did. I do, every time, actually. The kids have so much energy and innocence about them even if they’re not in an ideal situation,” you sigh. “They just want simple things, you know? They just want to be cared for and loved.”

“Doesn’t everybody want that?”

If you’re caught off guard with the way Jungkook responded, you don’t act like it.

You nod. “It’s different with children though. They end up yearning for it their entire lives if they don’t get enough of it when they’re young. They search for it in other things only to find out that it’s not what they’re looking for.”

“You seem to know children well, huh?” Jungkook presses, unsure why he’s putting himself in this position of letting you be vulnerable with him.

You shrug. That’s one way of putting it, but there’s also something more. “I know what it’s like to not be wanted.”

Before his mind goes to what he’s witnessed and heard about your friends and ex-boyfriends, you share something that you haven’t really thought about in a long time.

“My parents had a hard time conceiving,” you say. “It was an even tougher pregnancy that put my mother’s life at risk and she was told that the next time might be even more dangerous and uh,” you stammer. 

“I came out, a girl, who’s supposed to be the heir of the company.” You let out a bitter laugh. “Who’d want that, right? Their only child is a girl and they couldn’t even try to have more. I’m all they could have and there’s nothing they could do about it.”

Jungkook knows enough what this means, not oblivious to the ways of society that places men above women, their sex the mere determinant of their capabilities and what they could contribute, of what they could be.

He’s seen the difference in how his clients treated their sons from their daughters, how they mentored the former yet sought to correct and police the latter. He witnessed how the sons were presented - all their achievements laid out for outsiders to be impressed with, while the daughters were presented based on their physical beauty and level of submission and meekness. 

“Sometimes I wish I was just born a boy, you know? Maybe my parents would be happier, prouder.”

Jungkook doesn’t respond, mindlessly twirling the noodles in his bowl.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to be such a downer,” you say. 

He shakes his head to say it’s okay.

“My mother left when I was 9, and my father’s not all that great,” Jungkook shares. 

He knows the strength it takes to be open about something so hurtful, and something about today - being with the kids and seeing you interact with them - makes him want to let you know that he understands that pain, too.

“I’m sorry, Jungkook.”

It’s the first time he’s ever heard you call him by his first name, and he senses your sincerity. They’re words he’d only heard once from his mother, when she whispered it in his ears the morning she left. They’re words he’d never heard from his father, though.

“Don’t worry about it, that was a long time ago. And I don’t really blame her.”

There are words you want to say to comfort him but you know they won’t be enough; you’re unsure if they’ll be welcome anyway, so you settle for a smile, one that lets him know that you understand and that you admire his strength for pushing forward.

It’s a rare moment you share, as he returns your smile and suddenly, you forget how to breathe. His eyes look tender as they hold your gaze, his lips turned up to show you how he looks when he doesn’t hold himself back. 

Your heart quickens its beats, not used to this kind of response when all Jungkook did was smile at you, laugh when your soup splattered on your shirt because of how surprised you were, then proceed to ask the server for tissue to help you clean up.

You almost mess your shirt up again when your phone rings, pulling you out of the little bubble you created with your moment with Jungkook, immediately frowning to see your father calling, knowing it’s most likely about work.

A sigh leaves your lips when the call ends, mixed feelings of excitement and disappointment resurfacing.

“I have to leave for Jeju in the morning to attend his meeting with Mrs. Wong about the new deal,” you inform Jungkook. “Our flight is booked already.”

“Isn’t that a good thing? I mean, you initiated that, right?”

You nod. “They were together at an event today and she said that she’s excited to see me again to discuss the deal. But Father didn’t even ask me to come. He’s only asking now because she asked about me.”

“Well, then get on that plane tomorrow, attend the meeting, and do what you did the first time.”

“Which is?”

“Impress her.”

**

With Mr. Sim still tending to his family, Jungkook picks you up to go to the airport and leaves the car, as it would only be a day trip. You have that concert you promised your best friends you’ll accompany them to so you couldn’t extend another day. Much as you’d like to spend more time with your bodyguard, given that he’s been enjoying your company recently, you can’t miss time with Yoongi and Hoseok, too.

Jungkook looks at you from the Starbucks counter where you asked him to order breakfast for you both while you stay in your seat, poring over some files you wanted to review before meeting with your father and then with Mrs. Wong. 

You’re nervous, Jungkook can tell by the way you’re biting your lip and twirling then pulling the ends of your hair, something he picked up the many times he’d seen you prepare for meetings like this. He chuckles to himself at how your cheekiness takes a backseat during these moments, as you’ve barely said much to him since you entered the car.

He places your drink in front of you and you mindlessly take it for a sip.

“Jeon, you got me juice?” You glare at him. “I asked for iced coffee.”

He takes a seat in front of you and sips on his iced coffee, something you’ve convinced him to try some time ago and which he now enjoys. 

“You had coffee earlier. You’re surely gonna have coffee during breakfast with your father, and probably have it again during your meeting. That’s 4 cups in less than half a day if I got you one,” he says, matter-of-factly. “You don’t want to be shaking nor palpitating while you meet with Mrs. Wong, now do you?”

You cross your arms and cock an eyebrow. “Worried about me, Jeon?”

“It seems really important to you and it would help if you’re at your best.” 

He’s the one nervous now, as he doesn’t want you to think he means more. He sees you stress over these things, and caffeine doesn’t help with the nerves. He also knows he’ll be dealing with somber, quiet you if things don’t go well and he honestly doesn’t know how to deal with that version of you, knowing you’ll need comfort but it’s not something he knows how to give.

“Fair point.” You bat your eyelashes. “I’ll take that as your way of saying you’re worried about me.”

He chuckles. “Believe what you want, then. I’m just here to enjoy my drink.”

**

The morning passed by quickly, as you chose to zone out during the flight to calm your nerves, glad that Jungkook insisted on giving you juice rather than coffee. The breakfast with your father was at least bearable, as he discussed things you’d already read about.

You arrive at the hotel to meet with Mrs. Wong where you’re joined by your father and two other directors whom you didn’t know would be there. 

As you’d come to expect when your presence is requested in meetings like this, they direct the discussion and drop your name when necessary, making you wonder why you’d even attended in the first place. 

Anytime you attempt to open your mouth, someone else always has something to say. You give up halfway through and just lay back and nod at everything being said, confirming that you’d said something when you really didn’t. You should be used to this, but it doesn’t make it any less tiring nor disappointing. 

Jungkook stands by the wall, eyes settled on you after he’s made his round of venue assessment. He doesn’t miss the way your smile slowly loses its excitement, going dry and dry until it’s forced, just waiting for this to be over.

The meeting ends and you immediately excuse yourself to go back to the car for a detour before heading to the airport. 

Jungkook is tailing you but it’s the clacking of heels that catches your attention. 

“___,” Mrs. Wong calls out. “I didn’t get to properly say goodbye. It was so great to see you again.”

You return her hug. “It was great seeing you, too,” you smile genuinely.

“I’m sorry.” She looks at you with somber but encouraging eyes and no other words need to be said.

“Hang in there, okay?”

“I will,” you say softly, giving her one last hug before you enter the car.

**

The wind is cool and the waves are crashing pretty hard on the shore. Perhaps they sound like what’s going on in your mind right now.

You’re about to sit on the sand when you hear Jungkook say your name. You turn to see him walking towards you with a beach towel in hand. He spreads it nicely and gestures for you to sit on it, saying that you can’t mess up your clothes because you still have a meeting to attend when you land back in Seoul.

You thank him and sit down with your legs propped up close to your chest. He awkwardly stands on the corner of the towel before he finally decides to sit next to you, a clear distance away.

“You really like the ocean, huh?” He asks after some time.

“Why, don’t you?”

“Well, I can think of many other things I’d rather stare at than, uh, water,” he chuckles, a sound you’re hearing more and more.

“Says the guy who grew up in a port city,” you laugh. “How could you not love the sea? It’s so calming.”

“It makes me feel small and powerless, that’s all,” he sighs. “It’s like you lose all control when you’re out there; your life’s dependent on the whims of the sea.”

“Funny. I don’t think I’ve felt more free than when I’m in the water.”

“Is that why you love mermaids so much?”

You light up at the thought that it’s something he’s taken note of and your cheeks warm at this.

He playfully rolls his eyes and lifts your hand off the ground to remind you of the bracelet with a variety of sapphire and diamond mermaid pendants you wear everyday. 

“Oh, right,” you giggle and turn back at the water.

“Why do you love mermaids so much?”

“They’re enchanting. And independent and strong and capable. And out there in the water, they just… belong.”

Jungkook glances at you and sees the sullen look in your eyes, taking him back to what he witnessed earlier at the meeting and how you had that downcast look as you stared out the window in the car. 

He hates to admit it but it’s something he can relate with, given how his father always told him that he wouldn’t amount to anything. It’s what pushed him to work right after high school, taking whatever dignified job he could that would allow him to earn money and be something, anything, that’s nothing like his father. And what his father is, is someone who takes and takes from others with nothing to give. 

“Your parents don’t seem to trust in your capabilities all that much,” Jungkook says, somehow feeling bad for intruding but your nod tells him that you agree. “Other people also seem to think you’re just a pretty face with the wealth to back it up. You’re so much more than what you’re perceived to be.”

“I know,” you sigh.

“Then why continue letting them think so? You work hard but rarely get the credit for it. It doesn’t seem fair.”

“What about life is fair?” You shrug. “I don’t have the right to complain. I’ve always had everything I needed in life. Sometimes I think it’s okay that they underestimate me, that way I can surprise them but it’s not really that simple. It’s easier for people to look at me, at my name, and make assumptions.”

You think about this more than you care to admit. You know what people think about you. You’ve heard enough washroom gossip and overheard enough conversations to understand your worth to people, which really isn’t much, unless it’s about money.

“I don’t really know how to change their minds even if I wanted to. I never figured it out, actually. I just never knew how to fight those things.”

“Why not try?” Jungkook wonders. 

Fighting for himself is what he’s done his whole life. Unlike you, he wasn’t born privileged and he had to fight for his spot in this world so he could be something more than his father, more than his playmates and neighbors back home who’d joined gangs or just gave up. Life isn’t easy and he has to constantly claim things that aren’t meant for people like him.

“I realized that I'd rather fight for others than fight for myself. I don’t know why,” you say.

There’s a beat of silence before you continue. “Or maybe I do. Maybe it’s because no one’s ever done it for me.”

People take what they can from you then leave you out to dry.

Jungkook tries not to think of the irony of things - two completely different people feeling that same powerlessness, that same desperation, that same feeling of being trapped. 

“I got you speechless again, didn’t I?” You smirk.

“Nah, I just reached my quota of talking, that’s all.”

You laugh. “Don’t think I missed you calling me pretty, Jeon. I’m quite flattered.”

“I don’t think I said anything like that,” he deadpans, standing up then putting his hand out for you to hold as you lift yourself up. 

“Hmm, I must’ve misheard it then.” 

Your smile is a soft one, and Jungkook is glad you don’t push it.

**

“So I’m guessing your bodyguard’s change in relationship with you extends to us, too?” Yoongi snickers, as he eyes Jungkook seated at a nearby table in the restaurant you’re at for a late dinner after the concert. “He isn’t glaring at us as if we’re gonna abduct you or something like he used to.”

“A change in relationship?” Hoseok whips his head. “Are you and your bodyguard dating?”

“No, of course not,” you frown at your friends. 

“But you wish you wish you were,” Yoongi cocks his eyebrow. “Don’t think I didn’t notice you constantly glancing at him earlier, and not with your usual flirty smile like before.”

“Hmm, come to think of it, you talk about him less,” Hoseok pipes in. “At least, you don’t squeal anymore that his biceps are so formed you wanna lick them or like, that you want to rip off his buttons that are fighting for dear life so you could—“

“Alright, that’s enough,” you scowl at him while your hand covers his mouth, hoping to the heavens that Jungkook didn’t hear the way you thirst for him, no thanks to your supposed best friend who’s basically outing you right now.

“But doesn’t that mean I’m getting him off my system?” You retort.

“No, that just means you’re past lusting over him and are actually, genuinely liking him,” Yoongi says. “Which, honestly, hasn’t happened in years.”

If there’s anyone who’d know what you’re like when you like someone, it’s your best friends. Sin-young had been the only one who cared about you and you, him. It felt real, until the outside world got too noisy and neither of you could keep up. The others had been flings or some PR stunt or some shallow relationship you had to appease your mother. No one else made you feel or want more; or rather, no one really wanted more with you.

You sigh, knowing there’s really no way you could hide from Yoongi and Hoseok, especially since they’re not wrong. 

You’ve gone from checking out Jungkook’s sculpted body dressed in his slick suits to focusing on his sweet smile and the way his voice calms you when he calls your name. 

You find yourself looking at him when you’re anxious and thinking that after whatever meeting you’re in, you’ll be close to him and you’ll feel better. 

You start to wonder, during those times he pulls you up or out of the car, how perfectly his rough hand would fit against yours, and how it would feel to have his arm around you, with his perfect, obsidian eyes looking back at you.

“You think he’ll like me back?” You ask, after Jungkook excuses himself to go to the washroom. 

Hoseok caresses your cheek and you feel warmth immediately. “Well, I don’t know much about him but all I know is, he’d be a fool not to.”

**

Having Jungkook as your bodyguard for the past few months where you’re with him 6 times a week means you get to see him in a variety of outfits. 

He’s effortlessly handsome in his casual clothes, whether he’s wearing his favored black sweatshirt or a plain round neck under a dark jacket. The times you’ve seen him in pajamas are the closest you can get to imagining what he’s like in his normal life when he’s not protecting or tailing you.

Your favorite, though, is still when he’s in uniform - black suit over a crisp white polo, thin necktie, and skinnier-than-normal slacks because for some reason, he says he moves better in it and you’re not complaining. With his short hair that highlights his sharp jawline, he looks so clean and incredibly sexy, especially with the serious look he still sports when he’s around you.

He’s accompanied you to many events, with him needing a fancier suit, and while you made sure to give him the best for your birthday, perhaps his look tonight overtakes that. 

Your family organized tonight’s all-white gala, and for once, you’re actually glad that your mother went all out, ensuring that each and every staff member working for the Lee’s is impeccably dressed and within theme. That includes your bodyguard.

“___,” he says your name again, perhaps the third or tenth time. “Do you plan on getting in the car, or what? We’re gonna be late.” 

You stand by your house’s entrance, with Jungkook waiting outside to accompany you to the car. The lighting is enough to give you the view that would haunt and grace your dreams for nights on end.

His polo’s material is thinner than usual - from where you’re standing, you can make out his toned torso and narrow waist that’s accentuated by a thin belt. His suit and slacks are simple but form-fitting, you wonder if he’s able to probably move in them. But you’re also not complaining.  His hair parted to the side completes his crisp look and you won’t be surprised if guests mistake him for a celebrity or some social elite they’ve never heard of before.

Your eyelashes are fluttering and you think he’s used to you checking him out every time. But unlike before, he doesn’t say anything. For the first time, he looks kind of shy.

“Oh my, ___.” Mr. Sim appears, decked in an all-white ensemble as well. “You look absolutely stunning. Doesn’t she, Jungkook?”

Your eyes widen and you start to feel hot, suddenly anxious, worried about Jungkook’s passiveness that you already expect. 

He looks back at you, appreciating the simplicity of your satin, deep v-neck mermaid white gown, although the blinding diamond jewelry adorning your ears and your wrists still scream ‘heiress.’ He's a man who acknowledges beauty when he sees it, and he has to admit that you embody that tonight.

“She does,” he softly replies.

You feel your heart leap out of your chest and you want to run back inside just to calm yourself down. But Mrs. Hwang appears and holds you steady.

“Go on now, darling. The guests are waiting for you.”

You enter the car and admire Jungkook from the back seat, the image of him from earlier still imprinted in your mind. You didn’t think of ripping his polo off or doing the other not-so-professional things you used to. You simply wanted to lay on his chest, his strong arms holding you, making you feel what he’s always made you feel - safe. 

As he opens the car door and takes your hand, you feel a jolt of electricity and you’re suddenly unable to look at him, afraid of what you won’t find when you do. 

You like him. And all you could hope for is that he feels the same way.

**

As hosts of the event, your parents didn’t push for you to have a date, since they wouldn’t want him to feel neglected as you entertain guests and accommodate whatever their requests are. It’s the same reason why you didn’t ask for your best friends to attend, much as you need them to keep you sane.

It’s a lonely feeling, walking to the hotel entrance and into the ballroom hall, seeing familiar faces and people you know but not knowing them. 

You greet the guests as you should, take their compliments and compliment them back. You drop brand names and high-end designers, act engrossed in all the luxury talk, and bow and give your thanks and wish they enjoy the party. 

All the while, Jungkook stays close, eyes scanning the room and the guests, looking for something that seems off. The only thing that does is you. 

After seeing you at your birthday lunch in your house and at the orphanage, he can now tell what your genuine smile is like. It’s warm yet sweet; it reaches your eyes that sparkle like stars and it’s comforting, as if all your attention is on the person you’re smiling at.

There’s none of that here, and he can now tell that the one you have on is what you show to the rest of the world, of this world that tries to temper your shine. It’s a face you put on, as if saying that you’re part of this world but you know you don’t belong here. You’re not happy here. 

He knows this. He’s seen your genuine smile, because he realizes now that more than once, it’s been directed at him. 

Whatever energy you have for putting on a brave face drains a little, as Jungkook sees you approach a group of individuals, the same ones at your party. He hears the cheers as you arrive, the women hugging you tightly, so do the men who seem to one-up each other on who can place their hand on your waist the lowest. 

He doesn’t miss the way their eyes constantly flit to your chest and how your body language screams discomfort to someone who’s not familiar with your every move. But Jungkook is.

“Ms. Lee,” he says, catching your attention as your eyes have been flitting to him, too. “Your parents are asking for you.”

“Oh, okay!” You smile, disentangling yourself from Lia’s arm. You excuse yourself and affirm that you’ll be attending the after-party at the rooftop bar later. 

You walk several steps before turning to Jungkook. “My parents aren’t here yet.”

“I know, but I just thought you needed a break.”

You breathe a sigh of relief.

“There’s a waiting room out back, you can stay there first if you want.”

You nod and follow him, knowing he’s scoped out this place already. You enter a room with seating and dining areas, and you find comfort on a couch as Jungkook places a glass of water on the coffee table.

“You okay?” He asks.

“Yeah, just… A bit overwhelmed I guess. I haven’t attended a gala we hosted in years and I forgot how tiring they are.”

“That’s a whole lot of guests to greet on your own.”

“My parents like having a grand entrance,” you shrug. “But I should get back out there.”

“Okay, but this room is here if you need it. Just let me know,” he says, walking you to the door.

You nod in reply. “Thank you,” you turn to him, your eyes meeting his, and somehow, you don’t feel so lonely anymore.

**

You count the hours until the end of the party, never really understanding the reason why it drags for as long as it does, as if there’s not enough time for people to flaunt their wealth and see how many more events like this they can get invited to. 

But you can already hear your mother’s voice in your head, reminding you of the value of people wanting to be part of your family’s social circle, of acknowledging your influence like this, and how you should encapsulate someone worth admiring and respecting. You smile through it, finding no energy within you to counter her, even if you know you won’t get to convey what you really feel. 

You believe that there’s more to admire and respect about a person than their wealth, but you let it tie you down, afraid to stand up for yourself because you’ve never done it before. So you smile and laugh, act the way your mother instructed you to, and find the only real bright light in this dazzling room - Jungkook.

His eyes continue to scan the room but when they meet yours, he holds your gaze, mouthing are you okay and nodding when you smile. Your heart speeds and yet slows down at the same time, allowing you to breathe a little and feel comfort in a sea of people who’ll never really know you, understand you, nor care for you. 

With Jungkook looking out for you, you start to feel that in this sea of people, there may be one who does.

**

Exiting the waiting room that you turned into a dressing room for a change of outfit, you meet Jungkook outside. You spent more time than necessary fixing yourself, hoping that your embroidered mini dress will hold Jungkook’s attention.

You can’t read his reaction as you enter the elevator, but you feel his warm breath on your neck when you exit. “Be careful, okay? I’ll just be around.”

It sends tingles down your spine and you turn around to assure him. “There won’t be a repeat of my party, I promise.”

“You’re free to enjoy yourself, ___,” he smiles. 

He parts ways with you when you enter the rooftop bar and you catch the soda he asks the bartender to pour on a glass, his usual attempt at blending in. You engage with the crowd, finding your group and taking shots, dancing to the music, and laughing along as if this doesn’t feel like deja vu. 

You’re more aware now, though, and the only way you get to manage is by looking for Jungkook. There’s a pang in your chest every time a woman approaches him, getting too close and touching his arm. You breathe a sigh of relief every time she’s turned away, with him looking around to look for you, too, releasing a breath whenever he spots you.

Jungkook is more on edge this time, as he can’t let the same thing happen during your party where he lost you for a bit and expected your so-called friends to look out for you during the 4 minutes that he couldn’t. He sticks to one can of soda and switches spots whenever you do, making sure he doesn’t lose sight of you and sighing in relief when he finds you again.

It’s during one of your trips to the bar when he notices a man - the same one who was wandering in your circle and even offered you a drink earlier, which you thankfully declined - standing too close to you, causing you to jerk in surprise as he touches your elbow.

It raises alarm bells in Jungkook’s head, given the man’s unfamiliarity and multiple attempts at trying to catch your attention. 

You engage in conversation, Jungkook notices, knowing you’re not one to outwardly turn down such efforts. Your body language says you’re not interested though, as you merely nod and smile and constantly turn your head to find someone, perhaps him. 

The man follows you closely as you walk towards your group, whispering things in your ear that you try to avoid. You start to shake your head and keep your distance but the man doesn’t go away. Jungkook sees the slight panic in your face, prompting him to fight his way through the crowd to get to you.

It’s when the man snakes his arm around your waist and pulls you close that Jungkook sees you visibly freeze.

“Hey, what are you doing with my girlfriend?” Jungkook asks the man.

You look up at Jungkook with glassy eyes and a sigh of relief. 

“This is your girlfriend?” The man responds, promptly letting you go.

“Yeah, she is,” Jungkook returns, placing his hand on your waist and guiding you towards him. 

“Oh, sorry. She didn’t say she has a boyfriend.”

“She doesn’t need to. She doesn’t seem interested, does she?” 

“She’s hot, thought I’d take my chance and maybe get some.” The man shrugs. “Should’ve known someone’s already doing that.”

You feel Jungkook hold his breath and clench his jaw, perhaps holding himself back and you’re thankful he doesn’t say more or attempt to make a scene.

The man grunts and leaves and you turn to Jungkook.

“I kept saying I didn’t want a drink and that I was going back to my friends. I didn’t mean to—“

“Hey, hey. It doesn’t matter,” Jungkook holds your gaze. “You didn’t say yes and you looked uncomfortable. He shouldn’t have pushed it.”

You nod, suddenly feeling a mix of embarrassment, anxiety, and tiredness. You shift and rest your head on his chest, and you feel his hold on your waist tighten. 

“You’re okay. I’m here,” he whispers.

You look at him to catch a breath and he looks right back at you, his piercing gaze expressing his worry, his concern. His care. 

“Let’s get you home, okay?”

You nod and let him put his coat over you. You both walk to the lobby with his arm around your shoulder, keeping you steady as you recover from the alcohol and from what just happened. He takes a seat next to you in the car, letting your head rest on his shoulder, and there are no more words spoken until he walks you to your door and bids you goodbye and goodnight. 

**

It takes you a few days to recover from what happened, from the way Jungkook looked and the way he looked at you. It was the first time you were so close to him - sober, at least - and you felt comforted and safe, not just from whatever danger is out there but even from your own thoughts. 

He made you feel something. You felt that you made him feel something. It’s this thought that plagues your mind for the rest of the week as you go to work, attend your meetings, and have your social dinners, all while having Jungkook near you, doing what he’s always done.

It becomes harder to keep what you feel inside the more you think about that night and how it felt being close to him. Every day for the next week, you find yourself thinking about him more than usual, wondering if he’s eaten and if he got some rest. 

You search for him in the restaurant and hope that he’s next to you instead. You look at him from the backseat of the car and wish he’s next to you, comforting you as another day ends, telling you that whatever worries you have will pass. 

You want so badly to just hold his hand and kiss him, feel him in ways that you know will leave you satisfied. It’s why you make the decision to swallow your pride and tell him. 

[To: Jeon 🤖] I’ll just be home tomorrow but come over around 6. I need help with something.

**

Jungkook has spent a variety of Saturdays detailing you as you go shopping, get pampered, go on events, or be with your best friends. It’s rare that he’s not with you during the day, but you texted him last night after you’d gone home from a movie premiere that you only need him to go to your place in the evening.

Of all days, he wishes he was detailing you instead. That way, he wouldn’t have lazed in bed in the afternoon after a full-morning workout, looked through his social media that he only ever uses to check out his clients’ social circle, and seen Soo-ah’s post with another man on a boat trip in Busan. 

Busy at work, states the photo caption, which clearly has a double meaning, based on how wide her smile is and the way the man has his arm around her waist.  

She looks happy and it’s the look she used to have on as a teenager with Jungkook when they’d bike through alleyways and explore rundown buildings back home and imagined a future life where they had the money to build a life together. She talked about a house by the ocean with a nice kitchen and a large yard and a car big enough for their big family. 

Jungkook promised Soo-ah all these things, a promise he’s been working on for the past 10 years ever since he left Busan. It’s why he works as hard as he does, taking his job seriously and making sure he performs as instructed - following rules, being meticulous, ensuring his clients are safe and protected always, with clear boundaries set. 

Everything’s all about self-preservation for Jungkook because he wants to fulfill that promise because when he thinks about it, there’s not really much else to live for. 

Soo-ah knows this, too, and that’s why she holds onto Jungkook the way she does, because she knows that if there’s anybody who will keep a promise of giving her a good life, it’s him. 

Be someone, Jungkook, she’d said on the day he left. You can’t do that here. Be someone then come back to me. Until then, you can do whatever you want.

It was an unwritten agreement between them. Jungkook knows she’s dated around, but she always assured it was never anything serious. I have needs, she’d said, and he understood that; he was okay with that. He did, too, and he found temporary ways to sate those needs, something she didn’t mind as well. 

But what she has with this man feels different. And it frustrates Jungkook because 10 years later, he still feels like he’s not enough for her. 

It’s the uncertainty and feeling of defeat that feeds his frustration. It grows and he doesn’t have time to hit the gym again to let off some steam, remembering that you asked him to go to your place at 6PM.

He lazily dresses up and zones out on the way to you, thankful that Mr. Sim doesn’t prod on why he looks a little off.

Mrs. Hwang greets Jungkook as she opens the door for him and leads him to the kitchen where he can smell the amazing scent of seafood and something sweet baking. There, by your dining table, he sees you and what seems like a dinner set-up for two. 

He reasons that you probably have a date, seeing the ivory dress you have on, and needed help to set up or something.

“___? What did you need help with?” He asks, looking around for any decorations he’ll set up. 

You shyly look up at him and he notices you tense a little before you release a breath.

“I… Well, that was a little lie,” you giggle. “I needed an excuse for you to come over so I could tell you.”

Jungkook looks at the table and finds servings of lobster and the brand of white wine he’s mentioned in passing that he likes and some azalea flowers that he said reminds him of home. His throat dries up at what these could mean, his mind going over what made you think that this is any way acceptable, even more, what made you think this isn’t a mistake.

But still, he asks. “What… Do you mean?”

You walk over to him, your heart beating out of your chest because you’ve never done this before, never let yourself be this brave and vulnerable for someone, but you always felt like Jungkook was worth it.

“I like you, Jungkook,” you stammer. “It’s that simple, really. I thought to make you dinner and let you know and—“

“You what?” He questions, shock and a tinge of bitterness laced in his voice, something that makes you uneasy. 

Jungkook searches your face for any trace that would tell him this is a prank, like some joke you’re pulling because you know this wouldn’t fly with him, but you look nervous and it only tells him that you’re serious about all this.

“What did you expect would come out of this, ___? You’ll make me dinner and then what? I’ll tell you that I feel the same way?” 

“Well, uh. I was hoping you do. I mean, we’ve gotten closer and—”

“Gotten closer?” He huffs. “What makes you think that?”

Your mouth opens but nothing comes out, as you feel smaller and smaller as each second passes by. 

This is not what you expected. Maybe some denial or fear but the way he sounds, the distance he puts between you, and the judging and incredulous look he has on his face is unnerving, humiliating, and you want nothing more than to travel back in time so you could stop yourself from doing this. 

What did you expect would come out of this?

“I just thought that, uhm…” You clear your throat. “Do you not like me?”

“I don’t. What makes you think I do?”

He looks genuinely confused and you start to wonder if you’d imagined everything, if you’d read him completely wrong.

“That night at the gala, the way you looked at me, held me. It felt…” Your lips start to quiver.

“I was trying to get that man away from you, ___. It didn’t mean anything. I don’t like you that way.”

It’s the certainty in his words that hits you hard. It’s not so much anger but incredulity and confusion in his voice, perhaps of you thinking he feels the same way, given that he’d shown disinterest in your flirting all these months. 

Maybe he has a partner that you never thought to consider, and you mentally smack yourself for pushing it, for laying yourself out for him like this without even thinking properly. Maybe his discomfort with you hasn’t changed, even if you’ve become more comfortable with each other now; he’s always reminded you that you’re his client and has always been adamant about boundaries, after all. 

Maybe - and quite simply - you’re just not his type. He just doesn’t like you. You don’t really know which reason hurts most, but the reality of your unrequited feelings is enough to send you into a spiral.

You’re an absolute idiot. That’s all you could think about.

You stand there against the dining setup that you planned and put together, with the food you learned to cook, with flowers you had delivered. 

And tears slowly fall down your face. 

Jungkook hates this. The realization of not being enough for Soo-ah hit him hard enough, causing his mind and heart to be a mess of insecurities and uncertainties, and it’s exactly this situation he’s been avoiding all this time. Not just because of you but because of this job - he needs this job.

You’re not a terrible person. He just doesn't like you that way. His heart is with someone else. And protecting you is his duty, a means to an end.

But you’re crying, in your own home, with dinner that you prepared, and you look humiliated. The first time he’d seen you like this was in that empty hallway with your ex-boyfriend months ago and Jungkook thought even then that he wouldn’t want to see that look on your face again. 

But here you are. 

Here he is.

“Look, ___. I’m your bodyguard, okay? That’s all I am. This is against the rules,” he tries, softening the blow in any way he can think of, though he doesn’t know if it’s even right to state the obvious. “This can’t happen. It’s just not right. And you… You're just confused. You’re young and impressionable and just infatuated.”

You bite your lips to ease the crying and you quickly wipe your tears. 

“I’m sorry,” he mutters then leaves, the empty room suddenly suffocating you, and you find it hard to breathe. 

**

Mrs. Hwang runs you a bath as she hums the lullabies she used to sing to you as a child. She lays next to you as you cry in her embrace, softly massaging your back like how she would every time you get your heart broken.

It’s how Yoongi and Hoseok find you the next morning, with crusty eyes and pouty lips that utter the words, “I’m so stupid,” over and over again. 

“I’m so humiliated,” you shout on your pillow, as your hands pound the bed. “I thought I read things right. Why did I do that? Why did I think it was okay to do that? Why am I so impulsive? Why didn’t I think of all the reasons why he doesn’t like me and focused on the one night that made me think he does?”

“Hey, don’t be too hard on yourself, alright?” Hoseok says, lying next to you and letting you koala-hug him. “You went with your gut and it just turned out to be wrong. And that’s okay. That happens sometimes.”

“You should’ve seen his face. I felt bad for him because I put him in that position. But I was embarrassed. How the hell am I gonna face him again?” You whine, suddenly mortified at the thought of seeing him first thing tomorrow morning and being with him, well, everyday. 

“Well, what else can you do?” Yoongi asks from next to you. 

“I don’t know. I just know that I won’t get to focus with him around me. And I’m just gonna…” You frown, burying your head on Hoseok’s arms as you feel the tears again. “I’m just gonna feel so bad because I like him and he doesn’t like me and it’s seeing someone you want everyday but can’t have and I just…”

“Hey, we’ll find a way, okay?” Yoongi says. “Have a bath, clear your mind. We’ll spend the whole day with you and we’ll figure it out.”

It’s late in the afternoon that Sunday when you decide. You just can’t be around him, so you do what you think is the only way and make a call.

“Mr. Han, I want to make a request for a replacement, please.”

**

Saturday night felt like a nightmare, as Jungkook recalls the look on your face at your confession. He’d gone straight to Jin’s gym right after, boxing his frustration away until he tired himself out so he could just sleep the whole Sunday and force the image of you out of his mind. 

He felt terrible, turning you down like that.

“I told you she has a thing for you,” Jin had said, merely shaking his head as Jungkook painfully narrated the whole thing. 

“You just said she has a crush on me. That’s totally different from having actual feelings for me,” Jungkook had replied. “This is… Fuck this is so wrong. I can’t fucking lose this job, Jin.”

“Hey, chill. Why would you? You didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Yeah, but who knows? She tends to be impulsive and I just… So many things can happen.”

“Well, just wait it out and don’t make any rash decisions, okay? Preoccupy yourself until you have to see her again.”

It was good enough advice from his friend, Jungkook thinks now. He stayed up playing at a gaming cafe and slept the whole morning, then spent the early part of the afternoon on a run and worked out at the gym.

He could only hope it’s nothing serious when he gets a text from Mr. Han in the evening, telling him to pass by the office first thing the next morning instead of heading to you.

**

By this point, Jungkook is surprised by his own ability to keep his temper and not punch the first empty wall he sees. 

“Ms. Lee asked for you to be replaced.” The words are ringing in his head. It takes a while to process before he asks Mr. Han the reason, even if Jungkook has a pretty good idea why. 

“She doesn’t think she needs someone as skilled as you.”

It should be a compliment, at least that’s what Mr. Han says. Jungkook is apparently so good at his job that he’s of better use protecting someone else whose threat levels are much higher than yours. 

You’ve never done that, the head of security says, but he leaves out the part where you requested for Jungkook to be part of your father’s security detail, commending his thoroughness and commitment to his responsibilities and tasks. It’s Mr. Han who says he’s the one recommending Jungkook to be part of your father’s security team, as it is his role.  

If Jungkook didn’t feel anger then, now he does. It doesn’t matter that he still has this job, and the one he wanted in the first place. He knows why you’re doing this and he can’t believe you. 

He quickly finds an outdoor space right after the meeting, hastily dialing your number. Nevermind that you’re in the car or in a coffee shop right now, or that you’re with Mr. Sim or whoever they assigned as Jungkook’s replacement.

He’s angry and upset and it’s all because of you.

“Jungkook?” You say. 

“What the hell was that, ___? Do you think replacing me as your bodyguard will make me want something with you?” He shouts, thinking of this as your attempt at getting him to consider being with you. 

“I tried to let you off gently but what don’t you get? I don’t like you, especially not that way. This is my job. I’m getting paid for this. I get paid to be with you everyday. That’s it. There’s nothing more.”

“That’s not what this means, Jungkook,” you tremble. “I—“

“I didn’t even want this assignment but I had no choice. I tried so hard to tolerate you. I tried to be nice and… fuck,” he yells, his bated breaths expressing his frustration.

It’s a side of him you’ve never seen nor heard but you let him lash out, let him hurt you with his words. You know that you put him in a compromising position, made him uncomfortable with your confession and while you did your best to make the request for replacement as reasonable and non-damaging as possible, you also can’t blame him for being upset. 

“I’m so sorry, Jungkook,” you say and hang up. 

You turn to Mr. Sim and Namjoon, your new bodyguard, who are both looking at each other with worry. 

“Turn the car around please, Mr. Sim, and take me home. I’m not feeling very well.”

##

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[thytaenic]

You're writing is so cute! If requests are open may I request a scenario where Characters Riddle, Kalim, and Azul meet their fiancé? Like arranged marriage AU!

Aligning The Stars

in which you, a busy person are tied to an arranged marriage and so, the first time you meet them was unexpected for you and marked as the best day in your calendar.

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

bcs this is my first request, i hope it meets your expectations ! im still trying to figure out what to put for the rules of requests and i might’ve also overwritten these scenarios. anyway, enjoy <3

✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* 　　 *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧

⊹˚︵‿₊˚ʚɞ˚₊‿︵˚⊹

ʚɞ ～ ❝ 𝐀𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒 ❞

╰‧₊˚ riddle rosehearts, kalim al-asim, azul ashengrotto x fem!mc

Bakes For You, a bakery shop handled by (y/n) and two of her friends, ace trappola and deuce spade. for the past few days, the shop has received a lot of requests from birthday cakes to farewell cakes too. as a professional baker, she managed to keep up with the deadlines and delivered a great service to her customers.

(y/n) who's in her early 20s was set up in an arranged marriage by her parents with a nobleman's son, most likely her father's friend. because of her packed schedule, (y/n) had told her parents that she wont have time to find someone for her to spend the rest of her life with.

"goodbye, sweethearts. OH, before i forget. put it under the name riddle rosehearts, thats his name." they bid her mom who placed an order for her wedding a nice goodbye as she exited the shop, leaving behind a note. boy, just by looking at the note, her heart raced faster than usual.

“riddle rosehearts. riddle. riddle rosehearts. rosehearts. mr riddle rosehearts. mrs (y/n) rosehearts.” she muttered, giggling to herself at how silly she was.

who would've thought its finally her time to enjoy a marriage life? but with a stranger whom she never met. she shook away the curiosity and went back to the kitchen to start working on the order.

two days went by smoothly as the shop got busier than before. the day of her weeding drew closer too. (y/n) locked the door behind her, closing her shop for the door when she suddenly, she heard footsteps coming her way. who could it be? turning around, her eyes met with a pair of ash grey iris of a man dressed in a formal suit. they shared a look for a moment before looking away in unison. "good evening, miss. seems like your shop closed the moment i got here. i was wondeing if i could take order under the name riddle rosehearts?"

"oh, my apologies. since its a wedding cake, i was tasked to set it up on the venue tomorrow. but im guessing youre mom's assistant. may i know your name? i could tell mom about this matter." she spoke, hoping to know his name at least. she scanned the male standing before her. his eyes were red and so was his hair. but he dressed very well, maybe a nobleman? but why would her mom picked an expensive looking man to be her assistant?

the male's eyes widen, shocked at the way she's addressing him, "no, dont mind about it. i'll be going now." and so he hastily walked back into his car. 

“wait! at least, your name?”

he smiled at her, “riddle rosehearts, i’ll see you at the ceremony tomorrow then.” zooming away from the street and disappearing into the darkness of the night. truth be told, (y/n) felt a familiar sense of happiness the moment they locked eyes just now. without paying attention to the situation, she went home to rest for her wedding tomorrow but she couldnt stop thinking about him

“so thats riddle rosehearts. i wonder if he knew about the wedding.” oh but little did she knew, she managed to spark some fancy from him making the male blushed so hard that he couldnt focus his eyes on the road.

“gosh, shes so cute.” he noted, clearing her throat before continuing his drive.

"hurry up, kalim. we dont have much time."

"jamil, wait! i need to buy a gift for my future wife."

the two buddies went out to the bazaar that day to search for something needed for the dinner preparation. kalim was told to marry the Land of Sand's famous businesswoman named (y/n). speculations said that she's the nation's sweetheart.

dragging his friend past the crowds at the bazaar, they stopped in front of a huge shop building. from the glass windows, the inside was decorated with extravagant chandelier and modern setup of displays for what seems to be bottles and packs of perfumes. jamil was about to say something but was taken aback by kalim who continued to drag him into the shop. 

greeted by how good the smell of the shop is, they couldnt help but to take a long around the shop. “jamil, what do you think? do you think (y/n) will like this?”

“searching for a gift for someone special?” suddenly a voice came from the second floor of the building. a lady with a purdah on to cover half of her face came down the stairs and walked towards them, greeting with her eye-smile.

“yes, im looking for a gift for my future wife. but its going to be my first time meeting her today so i dont know what she loves.”kalim explained as she listened to him carefully. 

grabbing a glass jar from the shelves behind the two male, she showed it to kalim. “this is our new invention. its called a scented candle. when you lit this candle, it acts as a fragrance for the room its in. im sure your wife will love it.”

jamil nooded, most likely amazed. “we’ll take two of this then.”

after spending a long time at the bazaar, kalim and jamil reached the Al-Asim’s residence. they had to prepare for the joint dinner with Al-Asim’s family and the bride’s family. kalim who was excited before couldnt stand sitting in his room as he grew restless.

“nervous?”

“a little bit.”

“its time. lets go to the hall to greet them.”

the two of them walked down the corridor of the mansion, passing through several rooms and even the garden before reaching the door. the long haired male pushed open the door, revealing a long dinner table with lots of chairs. the food were looking so mouth-watering too. at the other end of the hall stood a group of people.

approaching the group, kalim spotted a familiar figure among the people. finally, theyre together with the group. jamil on the other hand facepalmed when he saw (y/n) standing next to her father. “ah, kalim. meet (y/n), shes the one i told you about.”

changing looks with (y/n), the white-haired male’ eyes widen but this time with a smile on his face. “pleasure to meet you again, (y/n). please take this. do you love it?”

(y/n) chuckled and gently accepted the gift from him, “i did tell you that your wife will love it, no? because i really love it, kalim.”

azul ashengrotto, the current owner of the well-known Mostro Lounge which had over 20 branches was rumored to marry a woman of his parents' choice. no wonder he's every girls ideal type. but the rumor really started a huge issue in social medias. speculations, gossips, old stories, you name it.

netizens went crazy over this. as for azul, its a good thing their parents managed to find the best bride for him despite their packed schedules. fiance or not, strangers or friends, he only hoped for one thing which is to be able to marry a woman who can accept him for who he is. and once the rumor calmed down for a bit, its finally an ideal time for the two parties to meet each other.

"azul, personally speaking from a friend of yours. you'll have to spend more time with your future wife more than doing business." jade who was one of azul's friend suggested to him. knowing how busy he was, marriage is a good way to keep him from working too hard and staying up until late night.

recalling back jade's word, his heart went restless and raced faster. is it really a good choice? upon entering the fancy restaurant he booked for the meeting, azul went to the receptionist to look for the reserved table and thus, he was brought by the waiter to a table full of people. his parents spotted him firstand stood up to welcome him. "we're so glad you could make it, azul dear."

"its only natural for me to attend this meeting, no? greetings, mr and mrs (l/n)." azul said, shaking hand with (y/n)'s father who pulled him into an unexpected embrace. standing next to him was (y/n) dressed in a beautiful purple dress.

(y/n) politely bowed to greet azul but was caught off guard when the male gently took her right hand, drawing it close to his lips as he placed a soft kiss on her knuckle. such a gentleman, she thought. "im honored to finally meet you, (y/n). i hope i dont keep you waiting."

"of course not, dont worry about it. i just arrived here too." she replied, smiling at azul who failed to control his excitement at how cute she was. she then gestured everyone to take their seats. dinner were served quicker than they expected and they enjoyed the evening, taking the opportunity to get to know each other better. he learned that (y/n) was also a businesswoman and this is certainly a chance to broaden his business with collaborations.

once the dinner was coming to its end, azul excused himself first from the gathering to go back to his office. "leaving already? at least bring her h-”

“who said im leaving her? i was about to take a night drive. care to join me, (y/n)?

they walked away from the parents and bid them goodbye before exiting the restaurant and walking towards azul’s car. for being a gentleman he was, azul helped her to get to the passenger’s seat before entering the car too. “so, why do you accept it?”

“the marriage? because i wa-’

“money? i can give you money and we can stop this marriage.”

it was unbelievable for (y/n) to hear that coming from azul ashengrotto. he realised his words too and sighed. he was harsh, he didnt know what has gotte into him. was it because he saw the worst in marriage life? or was it because marriage life will affect his business?

“i didnt say that. i never said that, azul. i accepted because i wanted to know you better. and to love you too. is that wrong? tell me, what part of wanting to love you and wanting your love is wrong in your eyes? i know we just met tonight but part of me wanted this arrange marriage to be considered based on love, and not just because its arrang-” (y/n) ranted out, getting furious and was about to say more when a pair of arms wrapped around her torso, pulling her into such tight and warm embrace. azul sighed, tightening the hug more.

“lets get married soon then.”

[oddsunnywoo]

Fluff Alphabet- Fezco

Request: "Hi! I don't know if you still take requests but if you do could you please do fezco fluff aplhabet? it would be awesome! :)"

So, this is my first request, thank you for trust me to doing this, I hope you enjoy ;)

Sorry about my english

A- affection (How affectionate are they? How do they show affection?)

- In front of the people, Fezco don't show much affection, but, If a guy try to hit on you at a party, he'll interrupt the conversation and would kiss you so hard in front of everyone.

- When you both are alone, he's the most cheesy person you ever know, he try to show his love with hugs, kisses, making (or trying to) your breakfast, just to show you how special you are.

B- beauty - (What does he admires about /What does he thinks is beautiful about you?)

-He really likes the way you treat him and Ash. A lot of people just see them like nothing, just drug dealers, but you, you see them like real people, you care about what they feel, how Ash handle this life (that is not normal for a kid) and how Fezco felt about Rue's coming to his house and screaming to him, he loves how you care about

-He loves your smile and how he can makes you laugh easily, he consider your smile the sun of his world, is one of the most beautiful things he has ever seen.

C- cuddle (They cuddle with you/ How they cuddle?)

-The happiest moment of his day is when you two are alone and just feeling the moment and the touches.

-A normal thing is when you two are just in the bed, ready for sleep and he hugs you e kiss all of your face. He plays with the marks on your body while you is passing your fingers through his beard.

D- dreamer (He dreams about a future with you?)

-Every day, he thinks a lot about having children with you, when he is back after a meet with Mouse, he thinks how his job will affect this future that he wants.

E- effort ( They put efforts on your relationship?)

-He put as much effort as he can because you are one of the only people in his life that really cares about him, so, he will try to not lose you. He gives you gifts out of your birthday, take you put for a date....

F- fights (Does he fight with you?)

-He doesn't like when you put yourself in dangerous because of him and when you do that, he doesn't scream with or something, he just talk to you. He doesn't like to fight or being aggressive with you.

G- gentle (is he gentle with you?)

-Yes, he asks you every time if you okay, he does little things just to see your smile, try to make every situation comfortable for you.

H- hurt (how he treats/handle when you are hurt?)

-He HATES to see you hurt (physically or mentally).

-He helps you when you get hurt, as like you do to him, cleaning you or with band-aids or even something else.

- He puts you in his bed e just stay there, listen to you, making you feel comfortable.

I-(???)

J- jealousy (does he get jealous?)

-Actually no, he knows that you will never kiss (or whatever) other person.

-He actually think that is funny when some random guy comes to you and start to flirt, because Fezco knows that you will leaving that "interesting flirt" to stay with him.

K- Kisses (where does he kisses you?)

-Anywhere and every time, he thinks that is a easy way to show how much he loves you.

L-(???)

M- marriage (has he thought about it?)

-He "dated" a lot of girls, but you are the only one that he seems walking to the aisle, with that white dress and every time he thinks about that, a smile grows up in his face.

N-(???)

O- open (Does he is open with you?)

-After his grandmother and Ash, you are one of the only people that he knows he can talk about everything.

-He has Rue, but no one has understood him in the way you do, he knows you will never judge him and thats why he trust you his life.

P- (???)

Q-(???)

R- romantic (he is romantic?)

-He tries. Because of the situation with his parents, he never saw this kind of attitude, but he tries to be like that guys from clichés movies.

-Dinners, flowers and buying somethings.

S- (???)

T- touch (What does he thinks about touch?)

-I not gonna say he hates that, he loves.

-He loves to walking with your hands together, hug you in the middle of the people, being in the bed just with you sharing kisses.

U- understanding (Does he understand you/your feelings?)

-Fezco is always trying to understand and help you, he knows when something is bothering you.

-He know that when you are in the middle of strangers, you start to bounce your legs because of the anxiety, that you cry in the end of every romantic movie.

V-(???)

W-(???)

X- (???)

Y-(???)

Z-(???)

[voids-colourful-creations]

Floating into the Sunset - A SatoGou Fanfic

[Read on Ao3!]

Rated G - No Warnings Pokemon Journeys Ash/Goh 1596 Words

Summary: There's been a project spanning across all of Vermillion City for kids to raise a Drifloon egg and set it free into the wild, and of course Ash and Goh took part. Finally, the day comes to set them all free.

Notes: This fic was written as a birthday gift! It's just some short, nice fluff =D! Hope you Enjoy!

-

Goh was the one who carried the egg as both boys made their way up Vermillion City's tallest hill.

One of the tallest hills, anyway, one of the most scenic ones. It had half grassy hill, half cliff face, a steep ledge that tumbled down into brambles.

What was worth it though, was the view. Under the shade of the old, towering tree, the entire cityscape unfolded out beneath them, blanketed by the sea.

Lights were just beginning to flicker on in the windows, and the sea reflected vibrant oranges and pinks as the sun began to melt into it.

Clutching the egg tighter, Goh continued making his way up the hill, trailing behind a significantly faster Ash. Even Pikachu was faster than him, though to be fair it was riding on Ash’s shoulders.

“Goh! You alright back there? Do you need me to carry the egg?”

“I’m alright!” He called back.

It wasn’t a very heavy egg. He’d be surprised if it was.

The Drifloon Raising Project had been a bit of a side activity Chrysa had been organizing. The Drifloon population in Vermillion had been dangerously low for about as long as Goh could remember, and she had decided to start a project to help combat it.

A bunch of children all throughout the city would be given a Drifloon egg to take care of and raise. The project had been pitched as a great way to help promote responsibility and cooperation with children, raise the Drifloon population, and help children be friendly towards wild Drifloon in the future. The project had been wildly successful, with tons of children around the city getting their very own Drifloon egg to take care of.

But, of course, the main selling point of the assignment was the release of Drifloon into the wild, and today the day had come to set them free.

Or would be, if their Drifloon had hatched yet.

“Lookit that!” Ash exclaimed excitedly, just out of Goh’s line of sight.

“What- where! Did they start it already? It’s not 6:00 yet, is it?”

Ash laughed a little.

“No no, not that! The sunset!”

Goh finally made his way to the top of the hill, fully able to take in the view.

Now Goh took pride in a lot of things. His appearance, his ability to catch pokemon, his dedication to his dreams. With all that, where he lived wasn’t usually something that made the top ten list. There were just a lot of other things he cared about more.

But with views like this, every now and then, Goh felt truly special having grown up in a city like this.

He let himself slide downwards, careful to let the egg rest safely in his lap as he stretched his legs out. Ash plopped down behind him just as fast, Pikachu still clinging to his shoulders.

“It’s pretty, isn’t it?”

“Yeah…”

The breeze swirled around them, not quite the chill of autumn yet and yet not as relievingly cool as it once was.

The egg shook a bit, a squeaking excited noise coming from inside it. Goh placed his hand on top of it, patting it lightly.

Ash stared at Goh for a moment, thinking.

“Are… you alright Goh?”

“Hm? Why?”

Ash hummed, toying with his shoelace.

“I dunno. You just look… bummed out? Or sad? I don’t really know. I thought you’d be happier about this, I guess.”

“I am happy!” Goh protested, but faltered quickly after. “I-I think? Probably. I should be.”

“You’re not scared of the Drifloon, right?”

“What? No!”

“It’d be okay if you were,” Ash mused, looking up towards the sky again. “I wouldn’t blame you after… stuff.”

Goh shook his head.

“We agreed that wasn’t your fault, and you already apologized for everything you said when you were possessed. If I was scared, and I’m not saying I was, but if I was, I’m not anymore.”

Goh sighed, kicking against the grass a bit. He dug in his heels, tearing into the grass to expose the soil beneath.

“It’s just… I’m gonna miss it, for sure,” he started. Ash continued to look at Goh, expectantly.

“A-and… I’m nervous.”

“About what?”

“Well…”

Goh leaned over the egg, pressing his head against it as he stared off to the bay, watching the gentle ripple of the sea's tides from a distance.

“We’ve been looking after it for so long. I’m just worried that… it’ll go off into the world and it won’t be ready. It was supposed to hatch 3 days ago, like the others! An-and I know, I know, some will hatch early and some will hatch late, but I just keep worrying I did something wrong , or I didn’t do enough or…”

He trailed off, stumbling to find the right words.

“We want it to have a good adventure, right?” Ash filled in, handing Goh the words.

“Yeah. Yeah… I want it to get a good start to life. I don’t want it to have been held back, or start late because of me-“

“It’s not just you though!”

Goh startled a bit, turning to meet Ash’s eyes. They faced him back, determined.

“We raised that egg together, don’t forget!”

“Of course- I didn’t mean to- I’m sor-“

“Goh, Goh, It’s okay! That’s not what I meant.”

Ash reached forward, laying a hand on Goh’s, overtop the egg.

“There’s nothing you did that I didn’t follow you up on, so if anything goes wrong, it’s on the both of us. And nothing will! I just know it. This Drifloon is gonna have such a fun and exciting life, just like us!”

Goh began to nod along, Ash’s words convincing him as always.

Ash continued.

“And even if it does get a late start, that’s not such a bad thing, is it? It’ll get to meet all sorts of other Drifloon who’ve already hatched for longer who can show it the ropes, it’ll have all sorts of floaty friends just waiting to meet it! Whenever it’s ready, it’s gonna have a super awesome time and make a ton of friends! There’s no doubt about it!”

“High hopes, huh?”

“Of course!”

Goh took a moment, closing his eyes. With a second to think, he breathed in deep, smiled, and let it out.

“Yeah. You’re right.”

“I always am!” Ash grinned.

Goh narrowed his eyes, raising a hand to flick Ash on the forehead.

“Don’t get cocky.”

“Says you!”

“Hey!”

“Ohhhhhh-whoaaa hey!”

“I hey’d you first-“

“No really, Goh look!”

Ash grabbed Goh’s hand from where he held it, squeezing it tightly as he gestured out towards the city with his other hand.

“The other Drifloon! They’re rising!”

Sure enough, under the orange-pink glow, a crop of purple was beginning to float upwards, dotting the horizon.

“Whoaaaa…”

The clusters of violet began to grow, more and more Drifloon being released into Vermillion City’s twilight.

“You were so right about this being the best place to watch…” Ash murmured under his breath, attention caught by the Drifloon.

“Thanks…” Goh murmured back.

The egg shook a bit in Goh’s lap as they spoke.

“Ah- Ash, do you think it can tell all the other Drifloon are out here?”

“Totally!”

Goh leaned over the egg once more, fixating his gaze on the egg and egg alone.

“Hey, Drifloon! There’s all these other Pokemon, just like you out here! I bet they’d love to get to know you. So, whenever you’d like to come out and meet them, don’t forget they’re waiting for you! And- and even after you do hatch and join your friends, you can always come and visit us, okay?”

And maybe it’s coincidence, but Goh liked to believe those words were why the egg started to shake, crack, and glow.

The cyan light washed over him for a moment, and then, floating right in front of him, was a tiny, newly hatched Drifloon.

It trilled quietly, blinking at Goh.

“W-welcome to the world!” He managed to choke out. He chose to blame the tears in his eyes on the wind.

“Woah, super cool! Hiya, Lil’ Drifloon!”

“Loooooon!”

It spun around in place, bobbing back and forth.

“Looooooon?”

It drifted out towards the city for a moment, turning back to Ash and Goh as if asking for permission.

Goh blinked.

“…Yeah. It’s… it’s okay. If you’re ready.”

“Looooon!”

It does a few happy little loop-de-loops, darting closer to them.

It bumps itself into Ash’s face for a moment, then proceeds to do the same to Pikachu, then to Goh.

With that, spinning in a circle one more time, the tiny Drifloon floats up, up, and away, heading towards a cluster of Drifloon just a bit further down the wind.

“There it goes…”

“Do you think… it knew we were happy for it?”

“Totally! It was telling us- “thank you and goodbye!”-  I could feel it!”

“With your magic Pokemon mind reading sense?”


“Goh, I told you that’s not a thing.”

“It could be.”

“No-“ Ash started to laugh part way through his sentence, “I can just feel it, you know?”

But Goh laughed a bit in return.

“Yeah, actually, I do!”

He stands, releasing Ash’s hand to brush the grass off his pants.

“Gonna be so much fun…” Goh murmurs to himself under his breath, casting a look out at the clouds of Pokemon drifting through the sunset.

“Yeah,” Ash answered, reaching out for Goh’s hand once more, “It is.”

Smiling, Goh reached for the hand offered to him, and together, in the sunsetting skies dotted with purple, they walked home.

[End!]

[mortedeveles]

BARK BARK WOOF- *cough* Hi☺️

Um….. Hello😁

If it’s not to much to ask………..

May I request HCs for Kirishima, Bakugo, and Denki? Headcannons about how they would celebrate their s/o birthday🥰🥰🥰🥰 I’m here to laugh, cry, and melt.

Happy late birthday Ash :) Consider this your third birthday gift >:) Kirishima's is the longest, sorry that Denki's is kinda short! Hope you enjoy muah muah

-

Kirishima, Bakugou + Denki celebrating reader’s birthday!

↪ Kirishima x fem!reader (fem prns/terms used), Bakugou x gn! reader, Denki x gn!reader

↪ Maybe OOC Kirishima? Fluff, minor angst and that’s it. 

↪ 1.5K words 

↪ Kirishima Eijirou 

As your boyfriend, Kirishima is 100% committed and devoted to you. He worships the ground you walk on (as he should!) You want some ice cream? You're getting some ice cream. You're sad? Not on his watch! He'll be quick to cuddle and do whatever to please you.

So your birthday is no exception from his devoted gestures. He'll prepare a surprise birthday party for you at the U.A. dorms. To amp the shock factor, he'll have everyone somewhat pretend they forgot your birthday (he'll be apologizing SO much for it afterward) and that everyone just agreed on going out, leaving you two alone in the dorms. 

He'll greet you with a good morning kiss, give you a bouquet of either snacks or flowers (I'd say go with the snack bouquet) and he'll tell you to dress 'cause he's taking you out. Where, you may ask? Guess you'll have to wait and see.

Once you're all dolled up, he'll take you to a nice and fancy restaurant and you can eat to your heart's content! Kirishima will notice if you're feeling down because your friends forgot it was your birthday (or so you think...) and will be quick to reassure you. (It helps that he knows everyone is back at the U.A. dorms, preparing the surprise party but you don't need to know that yet!) 

When the two of you are done eating, he'll take on you on a small walk before he orders another cab to take you two back but to your surprise, your sweet and loving boyfriend blindfolds you the moment you step into the car. Don't freak out yet- he's not kidnapping you, per se! Just trust him and everything will be just fine.

-

''Kirishima...'' you carefully choose your words, wondering what your boyfriend is plotting. ''Why am I blindfolded? What are you up to?''

You can hear the redhead nervously laugh as he guides you to wherever you two are, one hand settled on your hips while the other holds your hand.

''Don't worry! I just wanna give you one last gift. Watch where you step!'' You snort and hear him open a pair of doors before rushing you inside. ''Okay. On the count of three, I'm taking off your blindfold.'' You cross your arms, excited yet anxious about what you're soon to witness.

''One...'' the cloth begins to loosen around the back of your head. ''Two...'' Kirishima slowly lowers it. ''Three!'' The blindfold is ripped away and then you're blinking quickly as your classmates jump out of nowhere and scream with delight.

''SURPRISE! Happy birthday!''

It takes you a minute to process what's going on. You're in Class 1A's dorms and all your classmates are grinning with party hats on their heads. Mina and Uraraka are holding a huge cake, Denki and some other boys are hoisting a considerable amount of gifts and Tsuyu is crawling on the wall, where a huge poster reads "HAPPY BIRTHDAY Y/N!"

Kirishima's holding you tight from behind, his face buried in your neck. You're shell-shocked, to say the least.

''What's...all of this?'' You can't fight back smiling even if you try. ''You guys did this for me?''

''Of course, we did!'' Mina says eagerly and with Momo's help, the three girls place the cake on the diner table. ''Kirishima told us about his plan a month ago and we got to work, ordering birthday supplies and learning how to bake with Bakugou's help.'' Said blonde simply grunts before slinking into the kitchen, which makes you snort.

''Aw...'' you turn to look at Kirishima, who's smiling at you widely. But there's a hint of nervousness on his face. ''So, do you like it?"

You wrap him in a hug and he's frozen in shock for a second before hugging you back. ''I love it.'' When you press a kiss on his lips, you hear some cheers and wolf-whistles while Kirishima's face grows red. You snicker but he's quick to kiss you back before wrapping you in a tight hug that lifts you from your feet.

''Okay, okay! You can put me down now!'' You laugh and the redhead beams at you before reaching for your hand.

''I'm glad you like it! Couldn't give my girl anything but the best for her birthday.''

↪ Bakugou Katsuki 

Okay so I haven't written for Bakugou for a while but here we go. When dating Bakugou, it's probably a whole-ass process. The time he takes warming up to you, tolerating you (because let's be real, for a while he doesn't even know you exist), then stepping into the friendship zone, and from there it grows into much more.

Once you two are dating? Bakugou is much more open and relaxed with you, though he still has a reputation™ to keep up so don't expect him to be too affectionate in public. 

He will still show he cares for you in other ways, like making sure you've drunk enough water throughout the day, eating your meals, and making you're sure you're taking care of yourself. On some mornings, he'll wake up before anyone else in the U.A. dorms and make you some breakfast (he will deny this if you ever mention it to someone LMAO). 

So when it's your birthday, you feel like it'll be any other day. Sometimes Bakugou will do some heartfelt gestures but it's not daily so you're not sure what to expect on your birthday. But Bakugou is your boyfriend after all and he's determined to make sure he's the best boyfriend in all of Japan! 

He'll start with making a five-star, practically gourmet breakfast in bed and once you're done eating, he'll nag and rush you like your mom so you hurry up, shower, and get dressed because he's taking you out. And he's not taking no for an answer >:( (that's his happy face /j)

He thinks your birthday is a special event that should be celebrated between you two, plus he's low-key a hermit so he's not too keen on having a big party with your friends or anything. 

First, he'll take you out to your favorite food place, whether it's a fast-food restaurant or a classy and upper-class restaurant or whatsoever. Then he'll hand you over some gifts you have no idea where they came from and insists that you open them. (Surprise, he got you all the things he's seen you eyeing in stores but never actually bought) 

At this point, you're supposed to tell him how he's such an amazing boyfriend (believe it or not he needs reassurance too, though he won't admit it) and he's expecting some kisses too. Mans will be like 🤨 🧍‍♂️ waiting for his kiss HAHAHA

Once you're tired and you wanna go back to the dorms, he'll pass by a bakery and buy you a cake then the two of you will head back. 

Since it's your special day and all, Bakugou sucks it up if your friends want to spend time with you, throw you a party or something. It might not be his vibe but it's your day so he'll do everything in his power to spend it with you :,)

↪ Denki Kaminari 

Will be the definition of going over the top and mayhaps failing miserably. But it's the thought that counts...right? 

With one or two months beforehand, he'll get everyone together to help him organize the best birthday party in Japanese history! There'll be food, snacks, cake, some questionable water guns and so much stuff! But Denki isn't the best at organizing so unless someone like Iida, Midoriya or Momo help him organize, things might go sideways. 

Bakugou might even step in and say he's tired of seeing dunce face stress over it (but really it's because he won't admit he cares for you as a friend and is willing to help organize your birthday party) 

Denki will probably want to get a DJ too and then Bakugou will knock some sense into him (where the hell are we going to fit the equipment within the dorms!?) 

I think Denki likes gift-giving so before it's even close to your birthday, he'll be buying you small gifts that grow into a pile of gifts throughout time (that's if he's not broke though, sometimes he'll splurge his money a little too much and then his wallet's empty 😨) 

But regardless of money Denki will make sure you have a blast and that you'll have fun and enjoy your birthday :))

Once the day's over, he might even show up on your dorm bed, wearing his uniform but a rose between his lips but he looks so silly in the awkward position he's in that you end bursting into laughter, mildly offending him before you kiss him and his heart skips a beat. 

The day will end with the two of you snuggling in bed, watching any movie you pick while stuffing your faces full with chips and other unhealthy snacks that are way too good to resist >:)

A/N: I haven’t done HC’s in a while but I hope you enjoyed Ash :) You’re lucky you’re my friend or whatever 🙄 and that your birthday was recently or whatevs 😒 otherwise i would’ve released ur HC’s later 💅 /lh If you enjoy please reblog, comment + like! Much love <3 

[notchesandbullets]

Bakugou’s Birthday Bash Masterlist 2021 (My Works)

Fanart credit: @/t1k2h2r1 on Twitter

For Bakugou’s Birthday Bash Collab hosted by: @phasmwrites, @katsukikitten​, @bakugotrashpanda​, @lady-bakuhoe​, @jodrawssmut​, @ramen-rambles​. Ones that contain smut are marked properly, and those are 18+ only. 

Here’s the masterlist that has everyone else’s pieces!! 

A/N: @katsukis-sad-angel​, all of these are dedicated to you. i was driven to write these for you, partly because i know Bakugou’s your favorite and also because i wanted to show my appreciation for all your kind words and support ever since i started posting my stuff on here, so i figured a fic or two was in order to express my thanks but my ideas sort of got away from me. Bakugou’s really hard for me to write so he might be not the best written but! i hope you enjoy nonetheless 🥰!!

These were all written in the past month and edited rather quick to make the deadline for this, so I apologize for any spelling errors you may find.

[In the process of editing and proofreading as of May 17th; completed on May 31st].

complete word count in this collection: 127k

Vulnerability and Second Chances (Barbarian King!Bakugou x Omega!Reader) feat. Dragon!Kirishima

You are Bakugou’s birthday gift from the League of Outcasts given in spite to the Barbarian King. Instead of kicking you out when he finds out you’ve been lured here on purpose, he takes you in. He’s not supposed to fall in love with you. Love is weak. The war with the League is a long time coming, but when it finally comes time to put Shigaraki in the ground, will Bakugou’s strength be enough? Or will the king cobra’s forces overwhelm his own? (46.9k)

[18+] Red-Hot Jealousy (Bakugou x Reader) feat. Shinsou *SMUT*

Childhood friends separated in primary school, you and Bakugou are reunited at UA. But by then, he has a girlfriend and Shinsou is your best friend. Except... you’ve been misinformed. While Shinsou keeps trying to tell you that King Explosion Murder isn’t actually dating Pinky like you think, Bakugou has to get over his jealousy if he ever hopes to win you over and tell you how he really feels. (15.2k)

Wherever You Go, I Will Follow (Boxer!Metal Arm!Bakugou x Reader) Underground!AU

Bakugou doesn’t like to talk about what happened to his left arm. Years of fighting underground had made him harder than nails. Society was messed up. Children weren’t born, they were made and any who aren’t adopted are raised in mass orphanages. But you’re special. And you’ve chosen the light even though you’ve seen the darkness. Who else to get through to his heart other than someone like you? (7.8k)

A Soft Confession Draped in Ivory and Silk (Pro-Hero!Bakugou x Pro-Hero!Reader)

It’s been a few years since you’ve graduated UA. This was supposed to be a trouble-free reunion, except your reservations got screwed up and now you have to room with someone else while you're staying for the entirety of the trip. The weird thing is, everyone seems to have some kind of excuse as to why they can't let you sleepover in their room for the night. So, you decide on Bakugou's, the only person who can't say no because he hasn't arrived yet. But your actions have consequences and now you need to deal with all the feelings that you've been frantically suppressing as they resurface. (19.2k)

[18+] Guns and Roses (Mafia Boss!Bakugou x Escort!Dancer!Reader) *SMUT*

You’re just trying to make a living and get by. When Todoroki hooks you up with a job at Aizawa’s establishment to dance, you don’t hesitate to take it. But when a mysterious group of four men ask for your company one fine night, you can’t find it in yourself to say no to a particular ash-blond’s advances. (5.3k)

Ruined Plans (Boyfriend!Soft!Bakugou x Reader)

You get sick on the day of Bakugou’s birthday and he’s forced to take care of you. He has a hard time convincing you that it’s not a chore like you are led to believe but this circumstance opens up the window of opportunity for him to approach you with an issue he’s had a long time with your place. And it’s time to settle it once and for all. (2.2k)

Vintage Books and Midnight Promises (Tattooed!Bakugou x Bookworm!Reader) Modern!AU

Your days are brightened by the appearance of Eijirou and Izuku but you don’t recognize the tattooed man who accompanied the two children into your bookshop one day. But he finds his way into your heart and before you can stop it, you’re already in too deep for the man with tattoos that rippled like the purest form of water and smelled like blueberries hand-picked on the warmest day. (9.8k)

[18+] You Can’t Help Who You Love (Sub!Bakugou x Switch!Reader x Dom!Kirishima) *SMUT*

Bakugou’s birthday gift from you is a threesome with his best friend Kirishima when he lets it slip that he likes to be fucked in the ass. But something comes up and present a bigger problem than the one he’s currently got going on down there and with reassuring words and soothing touches, you pull the pieces together to understand what’s really going on. (5.9k)

Pure Affections Wrapped Up in a Dark Green Bow (Husband!Pro-Hero!Bakugou x Wife!Reader)

You had been married to Bakugou for a couple years now and you had a special present for him. But when he gets home, it’s clear that he hasn’t had the best day. You’re there, steady and strong for him to lean on for support and he does until he’s capable of standing on his own again. This is what love looks like. (6k)

[18+] Four is Better Than Two (TodoBakuDeku x Reader) *SMUT*

Due to your quirk, Bakugou’s stuck in the wall. Midoriya and Todoroki decide to fuck him to free him. (4.9k)

[18+] Birthday Cuckholding (Todoroki x Reader x Bakugou) *SMUT*

Bakugou expresses his interest in cuckholding one day when he’s drunk. It’s your job to make his fantasy come true when Todoroki agrees to fuck you in front of your boyfriend. (1.3k)

She’s Mine (Protective!Bakugou x Punk!Tattooed!Reader) feat. Erasermic

This is not the first time you’re seeing Bakugou’s family but it is the first time you’re meeting his grandmother, who is not the best company to be around. He comes to your defense after you stand up for yourself and he had no qualms about sticking his face in the old hag’s because he’d be damned if he lets anyone talk to you like that. You’re his. (3.2k)