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reidmarieprentiss · 5 months ago

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Bridges to Belonging

Part One Part Two Part Four Part Five Part Six Part Seven

Summary: Penelope texts Y/n, Rossi has a dinner party, Y/n and Spencer meet

Pairing: Spencer Reid x fem!reader

Category: Fluff

Warnings/Includes: mentions of virginity and sex (16+), playing never have I ever, teasing from friends, consuming alcohol

Word count: 3.7k

a/n: i am cranking this story out it is going to be finished so fast dear goddd ,, hopefully y'all like it!!! probably like 5 ish more parts is my guess

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Y/n was settling in for the night after a long shift at the hospital, kicking her feet up on her coffee table with a glass of wine in hand when her usually dead phone vibrated.

Hey, Y/N! 😊 It's Penelope from the BAU. Hope you don't mind me texting! Just thought I'd check in and see how my favorite child psychologist is doing. 🌟

Hey, Penelope! Of course, I don't mind :) I’m doing well, just busy with work as usual. How about you?

Busy saving the world, one computer at a time! 🖥️💪 So, tell me, are you still too busy to date, or have you finally joined us mere mortals in the quest for love? 💘

Haha I guess we’re getting right into it. I suppose I am feeling ready to dip my toes back into the dating pool. But I’ve been avoiding it for a while 😅 Awkward first dates are terrifying!

Ooh, exciting! 🥳 But I totally get the fear. Blind dates can be the worst. You never know if you're going to meet Prince Charming or... well, not. 😬

Exactly! And I've been so focused on my career that I haven't really thought about dating in a while. Plus, all my undergrad flings made me a bit wary of anything serious.

Understandable. Sometimes you just need to have fun, right? But now that you’re settled, maybe it’s time for a change? 😉

Yeah, maybe you're right. I wouldn't mind meeting someone who shares my interests and gets my sense of humor.

OMG, that sounds like a dream. Let me know when you find them and send me one too. 💖

Ha! If I find one I will let you know. How does one even go about meeting new people nowadays?

Well… You remember Rossi, right? He’s having a pasta and wine night at his mansion this Friday at 8 pm!! 🎉

Pasta and wine?? Sounds perfect. Thanks, Penelope! I’ll be there, I appreciate you thinking of me :)

Anytime, Y/N! Can’t wait for you to meet the rest of the team. I’ve got a good feeling about this! 💖✨

—

The rest of the team? Y/n thought to herself. She had assumed she met everyone already when she went for drinks with Aaron and the team. Maybe they added a new member. Regardless, she's excited to do three of her favorite things, eat pasta, drink wine, and let rich people pay for everything.

—

The evening sun dipped below the horizon, casting a soft glow over David Rossi’s expansive estate. Nestled in the Virginia countryside, the elegant home exuded both charm and sophistication, a perfect reflection of its owner. The team arrived one by one, greeted by the welcoming scent of freshly baked bread and simmering marinara sauce that wafted through the air, promising a feast of Italian delights.

As Y/n stepped into the house, they were embraced by the warm ambiance of the living room, where a crackling fire in the stone fireplace added a cozy touch. The room was tastefully decorated with leather-bound books, framed photographs, and art pieces that told stories of Rossi’s travels and experiences. Soft jazz music played in the background, the soothing melodies mingling with the lively chatter of the guests.

The dining room was a vision of elegance, with a long mahogany table set for the evening's festivities. Flickering candlelight danced across the table, casting a gentle glow on the polished silverware and delicate china. Each place setting was thoughtfully arranged, complete with fine crystal wine glasses waiting to be filled with Rossi’s carefully curated selection of wines.

On the far side of the room, a sideboard displayed an array of antipasti: olives, cured meats, marinated vegetables, and various cheeses artfully arranged on rustic wooden boards. A large bouquet of fresh flowers served as the centerpiece, adding a splash of color and vibrancy to the room.

The kitchen bustled with activity as Rossi, ever the gracious host, put the finishing touches on a variety of homemade pasta dishes. Large pots simmered on the stove, the fragrant aroma of garlic and herbs filling the air. A pan of lasagna bubbled in the oven, its cheese topping perfectly golden brown. Fresh basil and parsley were sprinkled generously over platters of spaghetti aglio e olio and creamy fettuccine alfredo, each dish a testament to Rossi’s culinary skills and passion for Italian cuisine.

In the adjoining patio, strings of fairy lights twinkled overhead, providing a magical canopy under which the team could relax and unwind. Comfortable seating areas were arranged to encourage conversation, and a small fire pit offered warmth as the evening grew cooler. The gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of crickets added a serene backdrop to the lively gathering.

The evening at Rossi’s house was in full swing. The room was alive with laughter and conversation, and the clinking of glasses mingled with the soft strains of jazz music. The warm glow from the fireplace and the dim lighting created a cozy, inviting atmosphere that wrapped the team in a sense of comfort and camaraderie.

As the doorbell rang, David straightened his jacket and moved toward the entrance with a welcoming smile. He opened the door to reveal Y/N, who stood on the threshold, looking radiant in her deep green dress that highlighted her curves and complemented her confident demeanor.

“Y/N! Welcome!” Rossi exclaimed, stepping aside to usher her into the house. His voice was warm and genuine, filled with the kind of hospitality that made his guests feel immediately at home. “I’m so glad you could make it. We’ve been looking forward to this evening.”

Y/N’s face brightened with a warm smile as she stepped inside. “Thank you, David. I’m excited to be here. The house looks wonderful.”

Rossi gave a hearty laugh. “It’s all thanks to the amazing team I have. Let me introduce you to everyone.”

With a graceful wave of his hand, Rossi guided Y/N into the living room, where the BAU team had gathered. The room buzzed with the energy of friends reconnecting after a long day. Rossi’s arrival with Y/N caught the attention of the group, and they turned to greet her with friendly smiles and nods.

Spencer, who had been deep in a conversation with Derek about a recent case, felt a shift in the atmosphere. His gaze followed Rossi and Y/N as they entered, his attention abruptly captured.

Spencer’s breath hitched slightly as he took in Y/N’s presence. The warm lighting seemed to highlight her natural beauty, and the graceful way she moved across the room was both captivating and disorienting. The rest of the team offered her friendly waves and greetings, but Spencer was fixated on her, his curiosity piqued.

Hotch, noticing Spencer’s focused attention, decided it was time for introductions. He approached Spencer with a friendly, knowing smile and gestured toward Y/N.

“Spencer,” Hotch began, his tone calm and reassuring, “I’d like you to meet Y/N.”

Spencer turned to face Hotch, his heart racing a bit. Hotch continued, “Y/N, this is Spencer Reid. He’s one of our most brilliant team members here at the BAU.”

Y/N extended her hand with a warm, welcoming smile. “Hi, Spencer. It’s nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard so much about you.”

God, even her voice is beautiful.

Spencer, momentarily taken aback, felt a flutter of nerves as he took her hand. “Hi, Y/N. It’s, uh, nice to meet you too. I’ve heard a lot about you as well,” he replied, his voice tinged with both shyness and genuine interest.

Y/N’s gaze was kind and her smile reassuring, making Spencer feel more at ease. “I hope it’s all been good,” she said with a playful glint in her eye.

Spencer managed a small, tight lipped smile, as he tucked his hair behind one ear and his nerves started to settle. “Definitely,” he replied, feeling a warmth that contrasted with his usual social anxiety.

Y/N leaned in slightly, her eyes meeting Spencer’s with a genuine curiosity. “So, Spencer,” she began, her tone light and engaging, “what’s one thing you’re passionate about outside of work?”

Spencer’s eyes lit up as he considered her question. “Well, I’m really into chess,” he admitted. “I’ve been playing since I was a kid. It’s a great way to exercise the mind and challenge myself.”

Y/N’s smile widened. “I didn’t know that. I used to play chess with my grandfather when I was younger. It’s a fascinating game. Do you have a favorite opening strategy?”

Spencer’s face brightened, and he leaned in a bit more, his enthusiasm evident. “Yes! I’m a big fan of the Queen’s Gambit. It’s a classic and very versatile. What about you?”

Y/N’s eyes sparkled as she shared her own chess experiences. The conversation continued, the two finding common ground and enjoying each other’s company.

Hotch observed the interaction with a pleased expression, satisfied with the introduction. He stepped back, allowing Spencer and Y/N to continue their conversation. The team resumed their chatter, though the undercurrent of excitement about the new connection was palpable.

The evening had progressed into a more relaxed phase as the team retreated to Rossi’s lush backyard. The gentle clinking of glasses and the murmur of conversation blended with the soft rustling of leaves in the warm night breeze. The group had moved outside after enjoying a sumptuous Italian feast prepared by Rossi and Penelope, and now they were settling into comfortable chairs and sofas, each with a glass of wine in hand.

Spencer, still a bit on edge but feeling slightly more at ease, had decided to join in on the wine, especially since Y/N had done the same. The rich, full-bodied wine paired perfectly with the after-dinner atmosphere, adding to the relaxed ambiance of the evening.

Derek, always the instigator of fun, leaned back in his chair with a mischievous grin. “Alright, everyone, I think it’s time for a game. How about a round of ‘Never Have I Ever’?” He looked around the circle with a gleam in his eye, clearly excited about the prospect of the game.

Emily raised an eyebrow playfully. “Oh, this should be interesting. Let’s see who’s willing to spill some secrets tonight.”

Y/N looked intrigued but a bit hesitant. “Sounds fun. I’m game.”

The group settled into a comfortable rhythm as Derek began the game. “Okay, I’ll start. Never have I ever... gone skydiving.”

A few people sipped their wine, including Emily and Rossi. “Guilty as charged,” Rossi said with a chuckle. “Skydiving is quite the adrenaline rush.”

Y/N, who had taken a sip, smiled and said, “I’ve always wanted to try it, but never had the chance.”

Spencer, still holding his glass, observed the interactions with a mix of curiosity and caution. He had never played this game before, not having ever been invited to parties in high school or college, and while he was intrigued, he wasn’t sure how much he was ready to reveal about himself.

JJ leaned forward, looking at Y/N with a grin. “Okay, your turn. What’s something we’d never expect from you?”

Y/N thought for a moment, then laughed softly. “Alright, never have I ever... been to a strip club.”

This time, the whole team, including Penelope, sipped their wine. “Oh, I mean we all have been on multiple occasions for a case,” Penelope admitted with a grin. “It’s a rite of passage.”

Spencer watched Y/N closely, noticing how easily she blended with the group, her laughter and easy demeanor making her approachable. He found himself feeling more comfortable, the game serving as a welcome distraction from his usual reservations.

As the game continued, Derek took his turn. “Never have I ever... gone on a blind date.”

Spencer, who had been carefully sipping his wine, hesitated for a moment before taking a sip. He caught Y/N’s eye and saw her smile warmly. “Well, that’s a new one for me,” she said, clearly amused.

Hotch, enjoying the playful banter, decided to chime in. “I think it’s safe to say that a lot of us have had some interesting experiences with blind dates.”

The game continued with a mix of laughter, surprises, and the occasional sip of wine. As it came around to Spencer’s turn, he took a deep breath, deciding to take a small risk. “Never have I ever... read all the books in a series before the final book was released.”

Y/N’s eyes widened in surprise, and she laughed. “Oh, I’m guilty of that too. I get too impatient for the next installment.”

Spencer felt a small spark of connection, his nerves easing as he realized they shared a common interest. “It’s the only way to avoid spoilers,” he said with a smile.

The conversation flowed easily as the game progressed, with everyone sharing stories and bonding over their revelations. Spencer found himself more relaxed, the warmth of the wine and the easygoing nature of the game creating an environment where he could be himself.

The group settled into their seats even more lubricated with wine, ready for the real revelations. Derek went first, his tone playful. “Never have I ever... been to a nightclub and partied until dawn.”

Y/N, Emily, Penelope and Derek took a sip, with Emily laughing. “Oh, I’ve done that more times than I can count. Nothing like a night out on the town to blow off some steam.”

Spencer seemed slightly more at ease with each revelation. “I’ve never been to one of those. It sounds like an experience.”

The game continued with more revealing questions. Emily, with a mischievous glint in her eye, asked, “Never have I ever... had a one-night stand.”

Spencer was visibly surprised when Y/N took a sip. Y/N gave a small, slightly embarrassed smile. “It’s a part of life’s experiences, but I guess I’ve been more focused on my career lately.”

Spencer nodded, a hint of understanding in his eyes. He was keenly aware of the fact that he was still a virgin, and while he wanted to connect with Y/N on a deeper level, he found himself struggling. She had undoubtedly had more romantic and physical experiences than he had. The thought that someone as stunning and sophisticated as Y/N would be interested in a novice like him seemed almost inconceivable. He was trying hard not to let his insecurities cloud his mood. The way she smelled—like a wet dream—was both intoxicating and overwhelming. Her laughter, so genuine and carefree, only accentuated the gulf between them. Spencer tried to shake off the discomfort, reminding himself to stay engaged.

Derek, sensing the shift in the conversation and relishing the opportunity to provoke more personal revelations, threw out another provocative prompt. “Never have I ever... gone on a vacation just for the sake of hooking up with someone.”

Penelope and Emily took a sip, with Penelope letting out a soft laugh. “Sometimes you just need to get away and see where the night takes you,” she said, a playful glint in her eye.

Y/N, now visibly more at ease and enjoying the shared camaraderie, leaned in slightly, her voice carrying a teasing edge. “I’ve always found travel is more about the sights than the romance. But I suppose the adventure can include a little... spontaneous connection,” she said, letting her words linger with a hint of allure. Her gaze flicked towards Spencer briefly, a subtle challenge in her eyes.

Spencer felt a slight flush creeping up his neck as he realized Y/N’s playful comment was not lost on him. The conversation had taken a decidedly more personal turn. “I’ve never really mixed vacation with... personal pursuits,” he admitted, his tone tinged with shyness. The idea of combining travel with romantic endeavors seemed foreign and somewhat intimidating.

As the game continued, the topics grew more intense and revealing. Rossi, with a knowing smile and a glint of mischief, asked, “Never have I ever... been in a relationship where both partners had different kinks.”

Everyone, even Hotch, took a sip, with Rossi adding, “Sometimes those differences can make things... particularly exciting.”

Y/N, engaging more openly with the group, nodded thoughtfully. Her eyes sparkled as she spoke. “It’s definitely something that can add a layer of complexity to a relationship,” she said, her voice taking on a more intimate tone. “It’s all about finding that balance and exploring what truly works for both partners.”

Spencer, taking a sip and feeling the warmth of the wine begin to loosen his nerves, found himself caught between curiosity and shyness. “It sounds like navigating those differences can be... challenging,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. His gaze remained fixed on Y/N, trying to read the subtle nuances in her expressions. The vulnerability she displayed in her words made her even more intriguing.

Y/N’s smile widened slightly, a mix of empathy and flirtation in her gaze. “It can be, but it’s also part of what makes relationships interesting,” she said, her voice soft but laced with a suggestive undertone. She met Spencer’s eyes with a confident yet gentle look, as if inviting him to share more of his thoughts.

Spencer swallowed hard, feeling a blend of attraction and apprehension. The way Y/N spoke, her casual yet intimate revelations, made him want to know more about her and, perhaps, reveal more about himself. The game had opened a door to a new level of connection, one that both excited and intimidated him.

The night had drifted into a mellow haze as the stars began to twinkle in the sky. The soft hum of conversation and clinking of glasses had subsided into a relaxed murmur as the team lingered in Rossi’s backyard, enjoying the cool night air. The rich aroma of the evening’s wine lingered in the air, adding a heady undertone to the tranquil setting.

Spencer had been engaged in a conversation with Rossi, but his mind kept drifting back to the playful exchanges he’d shared with Y/N. She had been captivating throughout the evening, her laughter and teasing remarks sticking in his mind. He found himself drawn to her energy, even as he struggled with his own insecurities.

As the night wore on, guests began to trickle out, and the ambiance of the backyard shifted to a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. Spencer watched as Y/N, her cheeks flushed with the warmth of the wine, made her way towards him. Her movements were graceful, and there was a certain confident allure in her stride that made Spencer’s heart skip a beat.

Y/N approached Spencer with a mix of determination and vulnerability. She cleared her throat gently, her eyes locking with his in a gaze that was both direct and inviting. The faint glow from the string lights above cast a warm halo around her, highlighting her striking features and the subtle sheen of her skin.

“Hey, Spencer,” she said, her voice soft but laden with an undeniable edge of sincerity. “Can we talk for a minute?”

Spencer, caught off guard, nodded. “Of course, Y/N. What’s up?”

Y/N led him a little away from the remaining guests, her hand brushing lightly against his as she guided him to a more secluded corner of the backyard. Spencer found he didn’t mind the contact too much, he might still wash his hands after. The quiet of the night enveloped them, the sounds of the party fading into the background.

She took a deep breath, her eyes searching his with a mix of hesitation and resolve. “I’ve really enjoyed talking with you tonight,” she began, her voice a touch more vulnerable than usual. “And I have to admit, I’ve been thinking... I’d like to see you again. Maybe for a coffee or dinner sometime? I’d love to get to know you better.”

Spencer’s heart raced as he took in her words. He felt a rush of warmth at the idea of spending more time with her, but the reality of his inexperience and his nerves threatened to overwhelm him. He managed a small, nervous smile, his mind racing through a whirlwind of thoughts.

“I’d like that,” Spencer said, his voice trembling slightly. “I’d really like that. I... I didn’t expect this, but I’m glad you asked.”

Y/N’s eyes softened, and she reached out to touch his arm, her fingers lingering for a moment. “Good,” she said, her tone taking on a more intimate quality.

Spencer felt a surge of excitement mixed with his usual apprehension. The way Y/N looked at him, with that blend of confidence and genuine interest, made him feel like he was worthy of her attention.

“Absolutely,” he said, feeling more confident. “Let’s definitely make plans. I’d like that very much.”

Y/N’s smile widened, a mix of relief and satisfaction crossing her face. “Great. I’m looking forward to it.”

With that, she gave him a warm, lingering smile and a light touch on his arm before heading back towards the group to say her goodbyes. Spencer watched her go, with a brand new phone number in his pocket, feeling a renewed sense of hope and excitement. The evening had taken an unexpected turn, and he couldn’t wait to see where this new connection with Y/N might lead.

#spencer reid fluff #criminal minds #spencer reid fic #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid fanfiction #doctor spencer reid #dr spencer reid #spencer reid #aaron hotchner #derek morgan #penelope garcia #david rossi #emily prentiss #jennifer jareau #criminal minds fandom #bau team #bau family

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logansargeantsbabymom · 6 months ago

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The Smallest Man Who Ever Lived

Oscar Piastri x Fem!Reader , Lando Norris x Fem!Reader

Genre: Angst, Hurt/Comfort

Warning: cursing, douchebag Oscar, cheating

A/N: I definitely did lie to you guys, I promise you that I am working on TGTSG pt 8, it's just taking more time than I'd like to admit! Sorry and I hope this makes this situation better <3

Follow my instagram account (THATS STRICTLY FOR THIS BLOG) for updates on when i post and fun stuff like that!

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Was any of it true? Gazing at me starry-eyed.

“Oscar, c’mon we’re going to be late!!!” I said ushering my boyfriend out of our bedroom closet.

A light chuckle left his lips as he emerged from the magical sliding mirror doors “Babe, it’s only the car reveal. It’s okay if we’re a tiny bit late” Oscar said as he walked over to me, rubbing a hand up and down my shoulders

An unamused look became present on my face “Baby, you know how much I can’t stand being just a millisecond off schedule, right now you have us 10 minutes behind! You’re killing me here!!” I added a bit of an exaggerated sigh as I dragged out that last sentence.

I wouldn’t say I had OCD or whatever but if anything and I mean ANYTHING was just the slightest bit off, I wouldn’t be able to focus on whatever task was at hand before it was fixed.

“Okay, okay. Let’s go. Thank god you’re dating a Formula 1 driver who knows a thing or two about driving fast. I promise we’re going to be there on time.” A small smile made its way on the corners of Oscars mouth as he grabbed my hand and guided me out of the house and to his McLaren.

And your Jehovah’s Witness suit. Who the fuck was that guy?

We’d arrived at the headquarters just under 2 minutes till Zak had to go up and make his big speech before revealing the 2024 season’s car.

Oscar and I tried to make our quiet entrance as to not draw attention to us being technically 30 minutes late.

See the drivers and the workers that didn’t help set everything up had to be there at 8:00pm whereas everyone else who had a special invitation had to be there at 8:20pm and then Zak’s speech would take place at 8:30pm but thanks to Oscar just NEEDING to find the perfect outfit himself instead of just putting on the one that his assistant brought him, he made us super late.

Lando was the first to notice our not so subtle attempt at being sneaky “Mate, if you wanted to shag your girlfriend you couldn’t given me a heads up so I could’ve made up an excuse as to why you weren’t here when you were supposed to.”

Embarrassment flooded my cheeks at the thought of more than half the people in our vicinity thought that t and I were late because we wanted to have a quick fuck before we left

“No Lando!! We’re not late because we fucked! We’re late because Oscar here,” I started, gesturing at the handsome man next to me “decided he didn’t like the outfit that his assistant brought for him so he had to spend an hour picking and changing his clothes until he found what he thought was best for him.”

My answer seemed to satisfy Lando enough because he wiggled his eyebrows at us before nodding, taking a sip of his very much alcoholic drink before walking away from us.

“Oh my gosh Oscar, never again am I being late with you. I can’t have people thinking we fuck like rabbits all the time!!!” I groaned, rubbing a hand over my face.

You tried to buy some pills. From a friend of friends of mine, they just ghosted you. Now you know what it feels like.

Oscar left to go get both of us a drink before the lights dimmed and a spotlight was shone on Zak, who was standing at the top of the steps.

Zak looked around to get a good feel of the crowd’s energy tonight “Hey guys, I’m the McLaren CEO, Zak Brown. I’m sure you all know why you’re here tonight but in case you don’t, let me tell you why. You’re all here because you either work here or was invited. Either way, tonight, we’re all going to witness the unveiling of our 2024 seasons formula 1 car! But before we get to that part, I want to call up my two Formula 1 drivers to say a few words. Lando, Oscar, please come up here.”

And I don’t even want you back, I just want to know if rusting my sparking summer was the goal.

I clapped and watched as my boyfriend and our best friend walked up to make their speech, Lando being the first to take the mic.

“First I just want to say: Thank you everyone for being here with us today to do this reveal, none of this would be possible without any of you guys and that each and every single one of us here at McLaren are extremely grateful to you guys. Thank you to Zak for believing in me enough to resign me for the next 2 years and uh yeah, I’ll pass it on to Oscar now.” That last part came out with a little awkward chuckle as Lando scanned the room before passing the mic to Oscar

“Hello, Uh Lando said the majority of what I was going to say but I also want to thank my beautiful, wonderful, loving, thoughtful, talent girlfriend for sticking by my side” Oscar started as he looked deep in my eyes as the crowd around us ‘Aww’ed us “oh and thank you to Y/N for being there too.” he added with a laugh that caused the crowd to also erupt in fits of laughter.

My face turned red and my blood began to boil. Did he really just say that? I mean I could be making this a bigger deal than it is but to me, Oscar just embarrassed me in front of maybe 250+ people, who mind you might do a little ‘story time’ on their experience there and would add that part which means hundreds of thousands of people are going to hear about how Oscar embarrassed me.

The rest of Oscar’s speech was a blur and I hadn’t even notice that him and Lando had left the top steps until I felt his arms around my waist and my body tensed at the feeling. Oscar’s touch right now made me feel sick, who did he think he was embarrassing me like that in front of hundreds of strangers and then acting like nothing happened?

And I don’t miss what we had but could someone give a message to the smallest man who ever lived?

I shrugged Oscar’s arms off of me which earned me a confused glare from him which I quickly shut down

“I’m going to grab another drink. Do you want anything?” It was the best I could come up with.

It got Oscar’s touch off of me and it gave me some space away from him, which I so desperately needed right now.

“No thank you, just hurry back” Oscar said sweetly as he attempted to place a kiss on my lips that I quickly dodged.

I saw another look of confused flash across his face but I was too busy getting far away from him as possible to notice how long his face had stayed like that.

Over at the makeshift bar they had, I poured myself a half cup of punch before making my way to the other end of the bar to fill the rest of my cup up with tequila. I closed my eyes as I took a sip of my alcoholic punch before letting out a satisfied sigh while feeling the drink burn its way down my throat, my solo bliss didn’t last long before I felt the presence of someone near me. Opening my eyes, I was met with one of my dearest best friends: Lando.

“Having fun?” Lando said as he grabbed himself a cupful of punch awaiting my response

“So much fun, I totally don’t want to be at home with a (favorite/drink) eating (favorite/food) while watching (favorite/ show) right now.” I said as I let out a sarcastic laugh which earned me a glare “I’m kidding Lando. I’m having a good time, what about you?”

“Just a good time? Why not an amazing time?” Typical Lando to only catch the first half of my sentence

“I have a mild headache right now, that’s why it’s just a good time I’m having right now. I didn’t have time to grab or take any medicine so I’m suffering right now.” that was the best lie I could come up with, let’s just hope that he believes it.

By the look on his face right now, he was starting to believe the lie I just spewed to him. “I think Zak has Ibuprofen in his office, let me ask him to grab you some” before I could protest, he was gone.

You hung me your wall, stabbed me with your pushpins.

I realized that I was spending too much time at the bar and that Oscar was going to come looking for me soon so to save him the hassle, I made my way back over to him.

Turns out he wasn’t going to be looking for me soon because he’s too busy having some blondie all over him. She’s running one of her hands through his hair while the other is resting against his forearm. The sight made bile rise in my throat as my stomach churned, I can’t be seeing this clearly right? Maybe I actually was suffering from a massive headache and that’s causing me to see all these things, right? This wouldn’t be the first time something like this happened, granted I’ve only ever heard of a ‘headache so bad you’re seeing things’ in movies before so I can’t really rely on it being a real thing.

Once Oscar’s gaze quickly fell on me, he pushed the blonde off of him and quickly made his way over to me.

“Hey beautiful, you were gone for a while.” He tries to plant a kiss on my lips but I placed a firm hand against his chest to leave a gap.

Apparently me dodging his kiss for the second time tonight really upset Oscar because he rolled his eyes before bringing his concerns to my attention

“What is wrong with you? This is the second time you dodged my kiss, what’s going on?” I could tell there was hints of an attitude lacing his words.

“Oh geez Oscar I don’t know, maybe it’s because I come back over from getting punch and I see a blonde girl all over you and you’re letting it happen?” I can’t believe he really has the audacity to question why I’m dodging his kiss when he quite literally was probably cheating on me in public less than 2 minutes ago.

A scoff left Oscar’s mouth as he rolled his eyes at my comment “You’re kidding right? That’s what this” he gestured in between us, “is about? C’mon Y/N, she literally is my race engineer trainee, we were literally talking about work”

“Oh yeah because talking about work requires her to be handsy with you in public in front of your girlfriend?” I can’t believe Oscar was trying to downplay this right now.

I watched as Oscar shifted on his feet before crossing his arms “First of all, you weren’t in front of us and second of all, she wasn’t being handsy. Sarah just asked what shampoo and conditioner I used because her brother needed recommendations and I told her the ones you buy me.”

“That doesn’t give her the right to run her hands through your hair while holding your forearm, are you kidding me?” Everyone around us could feel the tension thickening. It was so thick that you could break 2 machetes trying to cut through it.

“Go be insecure about our relationship elsewhere, I don’t have time to deal with this right now.” I didn’t even have a chance to get a word in before Oscar stormed away from me, leaving me alone in a crowd full of his co-workers and fans with nothing but my hurt feelings and confused thoughts about what the fuck happened in the last five minutes. There was only one thing in my head right now that was clear: I need to get the fuck out of here now before I make this a bigger deal than it is.

In public, showed me off. Then sank in stoned oblivion cause once your queen had come, you’d treat her like an also-ran.

I don’t know when I got home nor do I know how I got home, all I know is that I’m home and home is where I’m free to drown my sorrows with a nice bottle of Brothers Bond bourbon in peace. Only, I wasn’t able to have a second of peace because a rapid set of knocks were being banged against my front door which caused me to jump at the sudden sound and tighten my grip on my drink. Walking to the door with an annoyed expression on my face I was met with Lando’s somber expression.

“Lando, I’m sure you heard about the fight and I just really want to be alone right now.” I said as I attempted to slam the door in his face but was blocked by his foot.

“Ow, I didn’t expect that to hurt that bad.” Lando started as he tried to shake the pain out of his foot “Everyone knows about the fight-”

“Ugh, great” I scoffed

“That’s not why I’m here though-” Lando didn’t get to finish before I cut him off again

“So why are you here? I mean no offense but I want to be alone right now”

“Stop cutting me off then. I’m here because, gosh I don’t know how to say this to you” He took in a deep breath before letting it out in one long exhale “I’m just gonna show you” I didn’t get to process the words that came out of his mouth before he flipped his phone showing me a video of Oscar and Sarah making out in the corner of the room before Sarah dragged him out of the frame.

It doesn’t take a genius to know that they we’re going to find somewhere there to have sex. The video was a total of about 10 seconds and by the end of it, tears had already fallen. It’s funny how in a span of ten seconds your whole life could change, one minute I was upset over an argument I had with my boyfriend and the next I’m watching a video of him cheating on me. The sight before me made bile rise in my throat as I felt my heart shatter into a million tiny pieces. I never knew that loving someone could cause so much hurt, that if they did wrong by you it would feel like you were dying. I couldn’t breathe, it felt like my whole world was caving in on me and I couldn’t do anything to stop it, that I was just there to watch this tragedy unfold. I never knew that someone who claimed to love you until the end of time could do something so terrible to the one person they promised to never hurt, that even after you watched video proof of him cheating on you that you didn’t want to believe it. I shared a lot of firsts with Oscar, the most important being that he was my first love, he took my virginity from me and that’s one that’s one thing I could never get back from him. Despite everything I’m feeling now, I wish there was someone who could tell me why my heart wants to go back to him. My heart yearns for Oscar’s touch, his love, his time, my heart just wants it all, everything Oscar is willing to give it.

You didn’t measure up in any measure of a man. And I don’t even want you back, I just want to know if rusting my sparkling summer was the goal.

It’d been 15 minutes since I found out about Oscar cheating on me and the whole time Lando’s been holding me as I sobbed into his chest, I was so hurt by Oscar that I couldn’t find any sense of comfort in Lando’s touch. I feared that I wouldn’t be able to find comfort in anyone’s touch because of how bad Oscar hurt me and that’s not how I wanted to live my life. That’s not how anyone should have to live their life, surrounded by so much hurt that you can’t find joy in anything. The pain was consuming me so much that I felt like the only way to make it go away was to drown it in alcohol and that’s what I intend on doing.

Pulling myself out of Lando’s grasp, I leaned forward and grabbed the bourbon bottle on mu coffee table and brought it up to my lips. I took one big gulp, enjoying the burning sensation I was feeling as the liquid ran down my throat. I took another long sip before the bottle was yanked from my hands.

“Lando please, give it back I don’t want to feel this. I don’t want to feel anything, I cant live like this.” I started to sob again, hoping he would feel bad enough to just let me drink the whole bottle. ‘

Unfortunately Lando didn’t cave into me “I know it hurts but you have to feel the pain. You have to feel all your emotions in order to get past this, I know Oscar hurt you but I’m here to help you. I’m your best friend and I want everything for you but you can’t drown your feelings in liquor, I love you too much allow that.” I almost wanted to believe the words coming out of Lando’s mouth because I know he’s not Oscar and that I can trust him but a part of me doesn’t want to trust him and Lando could sense that

“Y/N/N, I need you to believe me. I want the best for you and you know that, you know that’s all I’ve ever wanted for you but right now I need you to trust me. Alcohol isn’t the solution.” The look in his eyes were sincere and I knew I could trust him.

I buried my face in my hands as I reluctantly let the bottle go and allowed Lando to take it from my hands to lock it away in Oscar’s liquor cabinet. By the time Lando had returned to the living room and saw my state he could obviously tell that at any given moment, I would start spiraling again and that was the last thing either of us wanted right now. I felt the sofa dip next to me before abruptly being pulled against a body.

“I’m going to hold you like this and you can talk about any and everything or we could just sit in silence but I can see it in your eyes that you want to be held.” Lando said as he rested his chin against the top of my head which I moved to look at him in his eyes.

I was able to whisper a faint “okay” as I looked in his aquamarine eyes, I never realized hoe beautiful they were until right now. Now that I think about it, everything I’m noticing on his face right now, I never had noticed before. I never realized all these little features in his face that made him beautiful, actually, I never realized how beautiful Lando was until right now. How plump his lips looked, how soft and fluffy his hair must feel against the palm of my skin, how the gap between us seemed to slowly disappear as I looked at him looking down at my lips and how soon the gap between us closed as our lips met. This kiss I was sharing with Lando felt different from all the kisses I’ve ever shared with Oscar, this one kiss alone had butterflies lighting fireworks in my stomach as I felt my broken heart mend. It sounds crazy, I know but something about this moment with Lando felt raw and real, it felt like everything I was missing in my relationship with Oscar was just found.

The kiss consumed my whole being, I never want this moment to end. Everything felt right and nothing could ruin this moment.

“ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?”

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creedslove · 1 year ago

Text

WHO KNEW? 💍💔 - PART THREE

No outbreak!Joel Miller x f!reader

"You took my hand, you showed me how

You promised me you'd be around (...)

I took your words and I believed in everything you said to me (...)

If someone said three years from now, you'd be long gone, I'd stand up and punch them out, 'cause they're all wrong

I know better, 'cause you said forever, and ever, who knew?"

Summary: you and Joel try to handle what happens after you both slept together and a revelation brings the truth about the nature of your relationship with Joel

• This is the third part of the small series: Who Knew? 💍💔 (PART ONE | PART TWO) which was also inspired by this amazing HEADCANON request

Warnings: angst, broken hearts, mentions of divorce, mentions of infidelity, fluff, age gap (Joel is four to five years older than reader and the time skip is 12 to 14 years (Sarah's age) but feel free to imagine whatever you want), smut, oral sex (f! receiving/m!receiving) piv, dirty talking, discussions of relationships

A/N: alright besties, I really don't know where this chapter came from, I had sworn I wouldn't write continuations of this story, but here I am, with a serious case of Joel Miller brain rot and all I could think of was him! I love this story with all my heart and I don't know if this chapter is consistent or not, as it was written through several days and I poured my feelings into it, but days change and so do feelings so hehehe, also, I may or may not have been a little too horny for Joel xD, anyway, I hope you beautiful besties like the story ❤️

12.3k words

Waking up by Joel's side was something you could've sworn it would never happen, it would only become a distant memory as the years advanced after the divorce; you thought maybe you would think about it every so often, when nostalgia got the best of you, if you felt lonely at times or maybe even the moments you would spend next to your ideal future husband, a man worthy of you and your love, someone who would actually treat you exactly how you deserved it, who wouldn't run away with the first willing whore he could find and build a life with her, the life that used to be yours, and was supposed to. No, that ideal husband would never steal from you, not your happiness, your beauty or your youth, as much as you closed your eyes and tried picturing this ideal, ethereal man, you were haunted by your ex-husband. It was his smile that came to your mind when you thought of this bittersweet fantasy; his hands that gripped your body, it was him. You realized your deepest wish was to have Joel as that husband; in an alternative universe where he wasn't a jerk, instead, he would be the perfect, sweet and hard-working husband, just like he used to in the beginning, and you both would love and support each other, building up a life, a family and a home together. That was how things were supposed to go, but everyone knew the end of that story.

What nobody except you and Joel knew, was the plot-twisted epilogue of your story with Joel. Very often, you thought of your relationship as a closed book, a shitty, depressing romance novel that had its indignant ending written and done, with no space to fix things up… until your return to Austin and things simply started to happen. You refused to believe it was a new chapter or a new beginning, quite the opposite, as much as your rational said had begged and screamed not to do it, not to get close to Joel and you simply went there and did it, now it begged you to put an end to it, your mind told you the night you'd spent together was just scratching that maddening itch and nothing more. It would be easy to pretend nothing had happened: Tommy had left shortly after the cops arrived at your place and headed to his girlfriend's, according to Joel. Sarah was absolutely clueless and had no idea what was going on, especially after both you and her dad had put an end to her efforts of setting you both up. All you had to do was to convince Joel of the same: it was a mistake, it shouldn't happen again.

But then, at the same time, why was it so good to wake up next to him? In fact, next to him was an understatement, as you were all over him. Safely tucked into his arms during the night, you had switched positions several times like you often did when you slept, but Joel always kept you at arms length, refusing to let go of you no matter what. It shouldn't feel this good, but it did, and even when morning came and it was time to get up, you pretended you didn't really have to. It was your secret, no one would know nor judge you if you stayed a little longer in his bed, what was the worst that could happen, after all? So the moment you felt Joel stirring right behind you, your eyes closed shut and you relaxed your body as best as you could so he would think you were asleep. It was quite stupid, you were aware, but suddenly you felt shy to be awake in his presence?! It was odd, but you didn't know how to act exactly… were you supposed to kiss? Act as a continuation of the night before or straight up pretend nothing happened? Should you begin ‘the talk' with Joel?! You didn't even know what you were going to say, so instead, pretending to be dead, well actually, asleep, was definitely a better plan. Joel hadn't changed in all those years, you recognized and anticipated every single move he would make; it started by his soft groans the moment he fully woke up, the hesitation he probably felt the moment he eyed you there and quickly the memories of the night before filled him entirely. His morning erection was hard pressed against your ass and that was another difficult part of the equation taking place in your mind at that moment; all it would take you was wiggling your ass a little and you both could start your day in a very fun way. It was tempting, and while you baffled yourself whether to do it or not, you felt Joel again. The way he gently placed his hand on your arm, caressing it up and down, almost in a ghostly touch, a bit afraid of scaring you away; to Joel, you were like a beautiful, delicate butterfly flying into his life, making things prettier for him, but also so easily scared off. He couldn't afford to have you fly away from him once more, not that time. His hand went to your naked stomach, stroking it softly, he enjoyed the butter-like feel of your skin under his hand. After all the cuts, bruises and dirt from hard work, it was a nice change to be able to touch you. He'd had his fair share of touching beautiful women, but none of them would ever compare to you. You were naked under his touch, entirely for himself, a dream that came true at that moment and yet it seemed way too good to be real. Hands that stroked your body leaving a trail of goosebumps over your sensitive skin, as he nuzzled your shoulder, taking some strands of hair away from your neck, he let his stubble beard scratch it softly, lips connecting to your skin, in gentle and silent pecks, ones that made you bite your lips not to moan too loud, even if the goosebumps insisted on appearing, hardening your nipples and sending a wave of lust down your core. Joel had his good ear to the mattress, not hearing if you were letting out small, sexy sounds but he could see the visible signs of his caress on you. He wanted more of it, he woke up with hunger, more like starvation and it was for you, your body, your touch, your presence. He wanted you, and he would have you, not only that morning, but forever, by his side.

“I know you're awake” Joel mumbled against your skin, you could feel his teeth nibbling you, making you squeal softly and moan at his touch, you turned around facing him and raised your eyebrow, heart melting at how adorable Joel's messy bed hair was, even if it was a little grayer now, it still made him look so handsome, you couldn't hold yourself back but caress his curls gently.

“How did you know I was awake?” You questioned him and felt his teeth scraping your collarbone instead of actually answering your question. It didn't take very long for Joel to straddle you, pinning you against the mattress as he took in all of you. You were beautiful, gorgeous, you were his. At least that was what he wanted to tell himself, but it didn't matter the future, not then, because at that very moment you belonged to him and only him. You lay under Joel, your breathing accelerating as you didn't know exactly what to do or what to expect, crashing your lips together, you tugged at his hair - you loved Joel's hair so much - and felt his rough hands running even more freely through your body. One knee on each side of you, preventing you from moving as he stared down at you, your body being the most beautiful piece of art he'd ever laid eyes on. Joel Miller was a man sinking deep further into his passions and he couldn't even hide it or pretend it otherwise. His mouth went for your neck, then down your collarbone, your breasts, so beautiful and tempting as they'd always been, time he'd been so kind to you, and now he appreciated it. He kissed your breasts gently at first, getting to your nipples, they were always so hard and sensitive and it was all for him. Lips wrapping around them, his tongue flicking then gently as you tugged even harder and pulled his curls gently. The way Joel made you feel was always something else, it was so stupid to try to fight that, at least while you were pinned down by his strong, sexy body. When he finally let go of your breasts, he kept moving his tortuous path south down you. His lips were dancing over your stomach, he loved that part of you and had lost track of how many times he'd daydreamed about your figure looking round while you carried his baby Miller inside. He enjoyed picturing it, another life coming out of you, a baby that would be half you and half him, that would bring Sarah the title of ‘big sister’ and seal the happy ending of your story in which you would become Mrs.Miller once more, for real and above all for the rest of your lives. Deep down he knew that wouldn't go further than a simple fantasy, something to lose himself in before falling asleep before bed every night, and yet, it always brought him such joy, comfort and affection within his body, and at that moment, when he was kissing your womb, his hands holding you legs spread as he took his time in kissing and nibbling your lower stomach, he closed his eyes and made that irrational wish, practically, that wouldn't do, not in real life, not with your history weighing heavily on the two of you, nor with your life styles that were so different from each other's. He worked too much, Sarah was already growing into a teenager, you were inexperienced at that matter at the same time he was getting older and was certain that having to watch a baby and later on a toddler would absolutely kill his back. But if it was so impractical, it should be so sweet at the same time. It would be a lot easier for him to keep those stupid thoughts out of his mind. When Joel got closer to your core, you wanted to tell him to stop, to remind him that you didn't use protection at all and you'd been missing up the pills, warn him there was maybe some probability of you both making that situation even more of a mess than it already was, but the words died out in your mouth, the moment Joel's eyes matched yours, the pool of brown warmth making your heart skip a beat at the same time he parted your legs, giving your inner thighs each a love bite, and your breathing accelerating once more in the anticipation of what was about to happen.

“Relax, baby girl” he purred against your skin, he was so close to your core you could feel his breath fanning your sensitive area, his hands gripping the outside of your legs in a way it was clear he was claiming his power over you. You were about to be devoured by a hungry man and at that, your heart raced like no other, just as Joel reached you.

His lips ghosted over your slit, loving how shaky and sensitive you were at that moment, head shoved between your legs he took his hands into action, using them to spread your lips wide and groaned in approval of how sexy that view was. Ever since you married Joel, being intimate with your husband was something normal and natural, expected even, and whereas you weren't a prude by any means, the way Joel touched you or how filthy that mouth could be always made you go red from head to toes, especially when he simply stopped at stared at your body like that.

“Fuck baby, you still got the same pretty pussy I remember, it's the best one I've ever seen, you taste so fucking good, this sweet clit of yours had always made my mouth water” he teased as you could barely hear his voice through the adrenaline making all that blood pumped so loud into your ear. He spread your pussy lips open, his cock was already twitching to see your cunt twitching for him. The way your clit twitched in anticipation and your hole clenched at the air, how your wetness simply pooled in your entrance and it was all for Joel, because of Joel and he wasn't going to waste another minute before having you. You closed your eyes the moment he kissed your clit, kissing it as he would with your lips, all you could do was whimper and once more grip your hands into his hair pulling his head against your pussy, wanting more and more. At your touch, Joel stopped playing around, he simply sank his face into you, devouring you, licking, suckling and flicking your sensitive clit, lapping at your juices so hungrily, like a madman having his favorite meal. Joel's hands were large and his fingers were thick, so the moment he inserted two digits inside, you were already filled with him, the way he ate your pussy and fingered you, the knot forming down your lower belly, you barely had time to warn him, but it wasn't necessary, Joel knew your body well enough to know you were cumming, getting so nice and ready for him he continued, until you exploded into an intense and long orgasm, in which he tried to make it last for you as much as he could.

After your bliss, it didn't take very long for him to slip inside, now that you were all wet and stretched for him, you wrapped your legs around his waist and closed your eyes in pleasure. Your nails scratching down his broad back, his skin warm and sweaty on top of you. You wanted more of him, at that moment that was you favorite place in the world, primal, obscene, his grunts into your ear as he fucked you like he would any whore. At that moment you couldn't hold back your desires, your lustful thoughts took the best of you. If Joel asked you to be his personal cum dumpster, you would say yes. And at that realization, he came inside, once more, just like he did the night before and you loved it.

Suddenly the exhaustion took over you, your body and your thoughts and it seemed like an impossible task to keep your eyes open.

“Sleep, baby girl, relax” Joel whispered against your ear once more, pulling you closer, the two of you appreciating the lovely bliss you shared after your orgasms. It felt right, even if it shouldn't.

•••

When Joel woke up that morning for the second time with you tangled in his arms, he smiled at himself, wondering how lucky a motherfucker like himself could actually be. The past hours replayed in his mind, over and over, and he still didn't believe they were true, simply because they were too good to be true in the first place, still the reminders of how true it all had been were there: the pink fading lines you left all over his skin were still apparent, your clothes scattered around the bedroom floor, the way your hair invaded his pillow and now you smell lingered all over his bedsheets. It was real, and he couldn't be happier. Watching as you exhaustively slept, he dragged himself out of bed, not really wanting to leave but knowing he needed to start his day somehow. So he just planted a soft kiss on your forehead and headed to shower before going downstairs, as he needed to get breakfast ready for his girl.

You on the other hand, slept without even noticing you, being so exhausted after another steamy session with Joel; when you woke up nearly an hour later, you felt his side of the bed empty and for a split second you sighed disappointed at the impression it'd been just a dream, which only lasted until you could feel that bittersweet soreness between your legs, the mess Joel's room was in and how sticky you were with sweat and some of your juices mixed up together. You bit your lips and giggled, you thought you'd wake up full of regret, feeling guilty and upset about what happened, but turns out you felt great, perhaps, all you needed to decrease that upsetting feeling of melancholy you often grew inside was a good fuck provided by the best man you'd ever tried.

You yawned big and stretched, getting up and feeling that familiar sting between your legs, a reminder of Joel's virility and size. As you weren't sure what to do or where Joel could be, or even worse: if Sarah was home at all, you decided to be as silent as possible, your wish was just getting dressed and going downstairs, but the moment you saw your reflection in the mirror you knew you had to shower. It didn't take too long to find Joel's bathroom, you got yourself under the shower stream, groaning at how your muscles relaxed under it, the way the knots on your hair seemed to undo themselves. You chuckled while soaping your body in Joel's soap, shampooing your hair with his shampoo, smelling entirely like him, as if he'd marked you like an animal would. Perhaps you shouldn't enjoy this obscene thought as much as you did, but at that point that ship had sailed and you couldn't care less about it. Stepping outside the shower, you dried yourself and went through Joel's drawers just enough to find something comfortable to wear - one of his boxers and an old shirt.

“Joel?!” You called him at the top of the stairs, hoping you two were still alone there, as you really didn't want to risk being seen in those - lack of - clothes by Tommy or god forbid, Sarah.

“In here” Joel replied, his voice coming from the kitchen and as soon as you got downstairs you were hit by the delicious smell of coffee, and just as your stomach growled in hunger you realized you couldn't even remember your last meal.

You followed the delicious smell and smiled when you saw him flipping a bunch of pancakes, frowning softly at the image, it was so odd to see Joel being so domestic, cooking breakfast when in reality, you were the one who usually got to do all the cooking and chores, not to mention the choice of menu for the breakfast.

“You don't like pancakes!” you said surprised as you approached the stove to confirm if you weren't seeing things, being surprised by the way Joel wrapped his arm around your waist and pulled you closer, greeting you with a peck on the lips, which you didn't expect but you couldn't complain either.

“I don't, but you do, and you deserve it, baby girl” he stroked your sides as he kept flipping pancakes with his free hand like a damn pro. You could only imagine how many times he had to step in and make his daughter pancakes until he got that skilled at that. You looked at him and as if he'd read your mind, he pecked your forehead this time

“Sarah is at her friend's which means she's only coming in the afternoon, you can hang out, maybe we can grab lunch together and then I'll drive you home, fix your door and all..” he said and stared lovingly at you “if you wanna go, otherwise you can stay here” he winked and made you chuckle.

“Joel, about us, about what happened-”

“Don't do that now, darling, let's not upset ourselves, let's have breakfast together and we can talk about it later”

You could tell Joel was postponing the subject, it was simply inevitable to talk about your future together or lack of it, due to your history, what happened between the two of you should be addressed, and even if you had been as willing as he was, it was a fact you weren't so easy to convince that perhaps being together was a good idea. However, he was also right: you could discuss things later, because at that moment you just wanted to have breakfast with Joel; damage had already been done, so what if you two continued to act the way you were? If anything, if you two parted ways, you would simply still have a nice time to cherish, to balance the ups and downs of your relationship together.

You two walked to the table, Joel placed the pancakes down and got comfortable on the chair, taken by surprise as you simply sat on his lap, instead of taking the seat next to him. You looked at him with a grin and stole a peck from his lips

“What?! You said we should have breakfast first” you giggled and started eating, at the same time his arm wrapped around your frame and he pulled you even closer. You couldn't really complain about that breakfast, it was the best you've ever had in so long, and it had nothing to do with pancakes.

•••

During daylight it was possible to see the damage the thieves left in your home; not only did they steal valuable things, but they also left a trail of mess and dirt through the floors, making you feel so angry at the shit hole they'd left your house. As soon as you got off Joel's truck, you could see cleaning, fixing and buying things again would take a long time, and even if you had the best contractor around town next to you, you still had to do chores. He placed his hands on his waist, furrowing his brows while he scanned the room, thinking of what he should do. You quickly changed into more comfortable clothes, grabbing a mop and a bucket and began cleaning up everything you had to, you reminded Joel he could make himself at home and grab drinks or snacks, since it was the least you could do after he'd been so kind to help you - and fuck you raw morning and night.

Once you'd finished your chores and showered quickly to get rid of the sweat, you went downstairs, looking for Joel. He had fixed a few things here and there, things you hadn't even noticed, but the moment you walked down the stairs, he was fixing your door.

And you were not prepared for that sight, at all.

Not with how Joel's shirt was clinging tight to his body, damp with sweat, the way his jeans looked so good around his thighs and his butt, or how he flexed his biceps unconsciously while he forced the warped wood forwards, the soft grunt he let out and how his huge hand wiped the forehead off his forehead was enough to set your core on fire. You stood there, at the bottom of the stairs, gripping the handrail and wondering when you'd become that thirsty for a man. Even when you had relationships after your divorce, you couldn't remember being that easily turned on, but at that moment, a mere display of Joel's roughness was enough to pool your wetness on your panties. He was just so mainly, so strong, something primal and intense about that man's body, he was different from any man you'd met, and the years only added to it, you were so tired of fighting your urges and feelings. Yes, Joel had been the worst husband a woman could've asked for, but just because you wanted to crazily ride on his cock, it didn't mean you would have to marry him again, definitely not. Joel wasn't a good husband, but he was a damn fine lover.

“I didn't see you there” you jumped at Joel's voice, distracted by it as he snapped you out of your lustful thoughts, nodding at him and smiling nervously. He cleared his throat “I'm guessing you want to talk, don't you?” There was a slight hint of disappointment in his voice and you thought for a while

“Yeah, we need to talk, just… take a seat, I'll get you some water” you pointed at your couch and disappeared into the kitchen, finding Joel standing still when you returned with a fresh bottle of water for him. He hadn't moved, something inside of him telling him not to, some kind of superstition, that maybe if he sat down he would go back to the poor reality of his life, a life without you, your touch, your caress. As long as he stood up, he could always find something to do around your home and then spend a little longer by your side. He took the bottle with a nod in gratitude and took a big sip of it, at the same time it seemed you were watching an erotic movie just by the way your body reacted to the image of his neck, the way his veins pumped as he swallowed his water, showing his thirst, and to think just a few hours before he was eating your pussy with the same ferocity, made you press your thighs together. You needed that man, and you were going to have him, no matter what. To hell with needing to have a serious chat, to move on with your life and not forgetting the past, you needed him carnally. Joel finished his water and finally walked to your couch, taking a seat and spreading his legs, just like he often did to find a comfortable position. You hated when men did that, taking up space and being rude, but not Joel, the way he did it was hot, it reminded you of how big he was, his long legs, big, strong thighs, so perfect to ride, and his frowny face, you could tell he was worried, probably thinking you would just thank him for the help, tell him what happened between the two of you couldn't happen again and ask him to leave. Hiding the heartbreak under his mean face, little did he know that conversation would have to be postponed, because your mouth was about to be too busy to talk.

“You want to talk, right?” He asked, nervously running his hands through his jeans, watching as you took another step closer and nodded.

“Yeah, but we can't talk right now… I'd rather use my mouth for something else” you winked at him, falling onto his knees and began caressing his thighs over his rough jean, smirking at his surprised face, hands fiddling his pants as you opened his fly and bit your lips

“I need your cock now, Joel, I need you in my mouth”

He was taken aback by your sudden change of behavior, he'd sat down expecting to be told to leave, but now he had you on your knees begging for his cock and that was something he couldn't deny. His left hand gripped your hair, tilting your head up a little, while his right hand stroked your cheek gently, his thumb ghosted over your lips, tracing an invisible path on it as he nodded. Suddenly, roles were reversed: he wasn't waiting for you to stop and decide what he should do, instead, he was in charge and he was about to make you choke on his cock.

“So pretty, baby girl…” Joel's voice wasn't much more than a whisper “you want my cock, don't you? Just like a filthy little slut, you wanna choke on it? Want my cum down your pretty throat?”

All you could was nod at his filthy words, Joel's mouth could drive any woman inside without any physical touch, just his dirty choice of words was enough to cause a turmoil of feelings and increase the pool in your panties. He lifted his hips and pulled his pants down, freeing his cock, already hard and held it by the base, while you licked your lips. You could see his tip glistening and closing your eyes as Joel rubbed his tip against your lips, before you opened it and took his cock into your mouth. Joel threw his head back and groaned in pleasure, he could feel his balls quivering while both hands flew to your hair, gripping it as you bobbed your head up and down his shaft, your hand squeezing and stroking his cock up and down where you couldn't reach his length. You'd always loved Joel's groans, the way he sounded so voracious, you clenched your thighs together, trying to give your throbbing clit some sort of relief. He guided you through his blowjob, he hadn't gotten a good one like that in years; of course he'd had his affairs, nightstands and such, but no mouth in the world compared to yours at all. He praised you, reminded you were his favorite cock slut and he wouldn't have any other than you.

You could feel by the way he clenched in your mouth his release was close, he was about to unload and you wanted to swallow all of him. So you continued, even when Joel tried to lift your head gently and warn you, you didn't need any warnings, you simply continued blowing him until he was cumming into your mouth. He reached his orgasm with another grunt, at the same time you worked your magic and swallowed every single drop of him. The way his cock pulsed inside of your mouth, how his breathing got rapid, his chest raising up and down at a fast pace, it was the sexiest thing you'd ever seen. Joel Miller was a strong, manly man, and you loved it.

He finally rested his eyes on you, his hell and heaven on earth, and he just needed more of you, convinced that whatever he had of you just wasn't enough. He helped you up, then pulled you to his lap, making you squeak in surprise as you landed right on top of him. You rested your forehead against his, while he pressed your body closer, never wanting to let go. He pulled you for a kiss, your lips tasting like him, sent Joel another wave of lust and need; he kissed your neck, his hands fiddling with your clothes, getting rid of them as he wanted you bare for him, your body on his, naked; he wanted to take you inside your house, not just some dirty, rushed secret locked in his room, but instead, claim you in any room of your home, if you ever wanted to break with him and decide he shouldn't be part of your life any longer, then at least he would leave his mark knowing each time you walked into any room, you would think of him, reminded of the time Joel fucked you and emptied himself inside of your tight juicy cunt.

“Come on, darling, ride my cock” his rough voice commanded you at the exact time Joel's hand pulled your shorts and your panties down. He went for your ass, massaging it, squeezing your cheeks and slapping it a couple of times, seeing it wiggle softly

“You're so fucking hot, you know that, sugar? Only you can make my cock throb the way you do” he praised you. His fingers traveled to your cunt, caressing it for the second time that day, making you spread your legs as wide as you could over him. He stroked your clit, feeling your arousal pooled in your entrance, it was intoxicating to him, he needed you every single day for the rest of his life. He gripped your hips, helping you lift yourself up and as held his cock in place and sank down onto it.

“Just like that, gorgeous, take that cock baby girl” he praised you.

You spent the rest of your afternoon riding Joel on your couch, not giving a single shit if any of the neighbors could see it through the curtains or the mere fact Joel had given you the worst heartbreak of your life; you needed him as much as he needed you, and it seemed neither of you could let go.

•••

The following days went by exactly the same way they usually did: you either worked from home or you went to the office a few times a week, you went grocery shopping, led a quiet, normal life, received Sarah's visits almost daily with the exception you were also seeing her dad without her having any idea. In fact, no one apart from you and Joel knew what was going on, and neither of you had any intention of changing that. Being completely honest, you should have broken things up with Joel the morning after, but each time you decided to do so, you simply couldn't get it done, the mere thought of standing in front of Joel and asking him to stay away from you was devastating, even if you turned to your memories of the day you found out Joel was in love with Angela and didn't want to be with you any longer couldn't help you. Of course they were as painful as if they were fresh, but at the same time it also felt like it happened between two completely different people rather than you and Joel. It was so difficult to process that Joel and your current Joel were the same, because deep down your heart claimed they weren't; the Joel you were constantly hooking up with was a hardworking, a great father, he was caring, sweet, he was passionate and he treated you as if you were the best thing he'd ever seen in the whole world. He'd become a closed man to relationships due to the guilt he felt for treating you the way he did and the abandonment he suffered from Angela. As much as that sounded twisted, the fact you were both abandoned by people you loved, also brought you closer, especially because he got to know exactly how you felt, which increased his guilt. It was terrible, but he was aware he was probably going to carry that for the rest of his life; even if he watched you smile and laugh, or if you wrapped your arms around him, underneath the joy and excitement he felt within, there would always be a tad of guilt just like a bitter taste in his mouth, reminding him of his coward attitude and how much better than him you truly were. As you had told Joel while you still hadn't crossed the line of how far your relationship should go, the problem wasn't the fact he fell in love with Angela, that could've happened to anyone, even if the sting of rejection hurt, being tricked and lied to was way worse than that. Even if it was hard to recover from the pain - if you had even recovered at all, after all, more than a decade went by without you being able to have a commitment to anyone, unable to stay in a relationship for more than other a few months, - you could only imagine Joel's experience was even worse; not only his relationship with Angela ended, but she also cut her ties with her own baby daughter. The disappointment he felt to realize his daughter would have to grow up without her mom, the paralyzing fear of being on his own to raise a baby, must've been intense. And even if some people could actually laugh at how funny life can be and swear there was still some kind of divine justice lurking around and he was simply paying for everything he'd done to you, you couldn't find the amusement in that situation, it was so sad, you could only feel pity. It seemed to you the years had turned Joel into a silent companion of pain, and not so much into the villain you'd projected onto him.

And all that was only the rational side of the story, because if you left it all to your feelings and desires, you wouldn't be able to leave his bed. Perhaps you were both feeling an overloaded amount of everything you had repressed for each other over the years; being able to externalize it was addictive, at first it was thought to be an inch you both needed to scratch, but soon enough it became obvious it was way more than that, which caused you to fall into his arms whenever you tried to make things easier for the two of you and simply let this condemned relationship go.

As you closed your laptop and watched Sarah's brows furrowing at the paper in front of her, in a mixture of focused and cranky for not being able to solve another math problem easily, she reminded you of Joel and how he would get the same way and have the same expression whenever he got frustrated with something not going according planned. You gently placed your hand on top of hers and offered her a reassuring smile, Sarah had had her nails done by you earlier, proud to see how pretty the sparkly color got on contracts with her skin. She was such a beautiful girl and you enjoyed being able to help her discover that, by introducing simple things like that, which meant the world to her, since she didn't have a mom around, it was nice doing stuff like that with someone experienced who could give her advice on school, friends and boys. She really appreciated it and if it were for Sarah, she would find a way to set you up with her dad and become one small family.

“you should have a break, you've been stuck in this question for a long time, try again later” you advised her and even if she sighed in a gruff way, - again, so Joel Miller coded - she nodded, closing her notebook and checking up her nails discreetly, which brought a warmth into your heart.

“So…” you started, hoping you would sound convincing enough and not raise any kind of suspicions from her, after all, that girl was smart “...you told me your dad is coming to pick you up, right? When he does, invite him inside so you guys can have dinner with me” you suggested, even if you and Joel had already agreed on it. You hadn't been able to see each other in a few days let alone touch each other, which was actually what you both really wanted, so all the options you got were texting like a bunch of horny teenagers. Now, sending nudes to a guy was something you would strongly disagree several months ago, but now? Each time your phone buzzed, you rushed to it, in hopes to get yet another picture of Joel's big hand holding his cock by its base, so you could lock yourself in any room and pull down your bra and panties, exactly the way he liked it. So spending some time around Joel even if you both had to play it cool was better than nothing. Sarah agreed but still felt a little puzzled at your suggestion.

“Alright… but why? You're regretting saying no when I tried to set you up?” She chuckled and you rolled your eyes, hoping you weren't so obvious. You moved to the kitchen and invited her to come along, so she could help you with dinner. You opened the fridge and had your back to Sarah, while you picked the meat and the vegetables.

“No, it's just that your dad was so nice to me, he fixed my front door after the break in, it would be a nice way to repay” you said “why do you even say that?”

“I think dad has a girlfriend or something…” she shrugged and you stopped, looking at her and trying to control the shock over your face.

“Y-yeah? And how do you know it?”

“Well, dad's different now, he seems happier, more cheerful, he's very often texting on his phone…”

“And what do you think of that?”

“It's nice, I guess” Sarah licked her lips “dad deserves to be happy, he's been lonely for a long time, ever since my mom left…” she said “but uncle Tommy says dad was sad before that, apparently there was another girl before mom, it didn't work between them or dad made her go away, I don't know why, but uncle Tommy told me once that even when he was with my mom, he couldn't forget about her an-”

“What happened then?” Only after you said it you realized you interrupted Sarah and sounded a little crazy, she didn't understand why you were so into that story after all, but seeing how eager you were to hear the ending of it, she continued.

“Well, according to uncle Tommy dad never forgot that girl, but she was way out of his league by the time my mom had left, so my dad sort of gave up dating” she shrugged “then my dad got home and interrupted uncle Tommy when he was about to tell me the full story, and he never spoke about it since” she replied with a simple shrug and pointed at the meat you were about to roast

“Hey, that's my dad's favorite!” She said amused at the coincidence of menus which you knew damn well that wasn't a coincidence, but your treat to Joel. As you kept cooking with Sarah's help, you also thought about the story she'd told you, too many things happening at once: finding out Joel had never forgotten you while his daughter was sure he had a mysterious girlfriend, which of course, was also you.

During dinner, you tried your best to forget about all of that, the way Joel and Sarah fit so well in that scene, the three of you at the table, eating and sharing how your days had been seemed like a beautiful painting of a perfect little family. A portrait of what things could've been like, or should have been like, and you enjoyed it, you couldn't deny it at all. Your gaze met Joel's and you shared a smile, silently agreeing you were spending a family time; you wondered if some day that would actually happen and if you would indeed be a family with Joel, sometimes you thought you would like it, and sometimes you would brush it off as some momentary lapse. But when he reached for your hand under the table and held it, caressing your knuckles with his thumb, your heart raced one more time and you couldn't help but allow yourself to picture a life by his and Sarah's side.

When you were all finished, Joel gladly dismissed his daughter from having to help with the dishes and the moment you two noticed she was fairly entertained with the new books you'd bought, he stole a kiss from you. It was quick but sweet and as much as it left you all giggly and blushing, it wasn't enough. Your need for Joel was overpowering, it was addictive, and you needed to touch him. Nothing would happen between the two of you while Sarah stood just a few feet away, Joel would never risk being caught that way, he respected his daughter too much, but he would kill to have his hands all over your body. He thought of asking you on a escapade with him, but he wasn't sure if it was a good idea, not with Sarah being a little suspicious of how friendly you were acting towards each other. He wondered if he could actually call you his girlfriend, if he could admit he was dating you, because that's what it felt like, but then, if you both came clean about the situation, it would get complicated, not only for him because of Sarah, but he was well aware you would be in a tricky situation with your family, since he knew for a fact your parents hated him, - with plenty reasons to do so - eventually, you would two would have to have the talk. Now, Joel didn't fear not being with you any longer, he knew that wouldn't happen, you were as attached to him as he was to you, but eventually, you would have to define that situation. He knew he could be cold and distant, but it was so damn hard for him to hide his passion, the way he leaned against the doorframe and watched as you carefully put the dishes away, looking every bit of sexy as you could be, not that young and naive little wife he kept at home before he screwed things up, but instead, the powerful, beautiful woman you grew to be.

Sarah was incredibly smart, but she was also naive at some level, which caused her to be oblivious to the fact you called Joel into the backyard at some point, asking him to check something up you wanted it fixed, only to pull him closer and kiss him deeply, gripping his body, wanting him to engulf you like he always did, your nails gently scratching down his back while his lips ravished yours.

“I want to spend the night with you so bad, baby girl” he whispered against your lips “you're so good to me, you treat Sarah like a princess, you cooked us my favorite meal, all I want is to show my gratitude by getting lost between these beautiful thighs” he teased and for a split second you felt like telling him to stay the night, to come clean and tell Sarah you were dating, dating as if you two were pretty much a decade younger and so eager to be in each other's arms, but it couldn't happen that way, not like that, and not at that moment. You nibbled his bottom lip a couple of times before letting go, your body tingled for him, aching for his touch and as he told you he would call Sarah to go home, you felt unannounced tears flooding your eyes for no reason. Why did things have to be so complicated, why Joel couldn't have been this good from the beginning? You could've lived more than a decade of happiness together, if it weren't for that.

As they said their goodbyes, you watched Joel's truck disappear from your eyesight, a pang in your chest insisting on saying it was your family leaving while you played too hard to get.

•••

You had never seen Sarah smile that wide as she did while you two walked around the mall; side by side, a bunch of bags in hands as you spent such a simple, and yet incredible quality time together. For her, it was like hanging out with the mom she never had, and you felt as if you were shopping around for the daughter you could never conceive. It didn't matter where you were going, which stores you were checking and not even exactly what you were buying, just the fact you were doing that together felt incredibly special. It all began when Sarah complained about not having what to wear to the Harry Styles concert in the upcoming week; after months of begging her dad and uncle Tommy, she was given a ticket to the presentation she'd been dreaming of watching, under the condition she wasn't going to drag her dad along. Joel was an amazing dad, and he would do almost about anything for her, but standing in line for hours and then having to watch that guy performing while an entire stadium of hysterical teenage girls would be screaming at the top of their lungs which would probably cause Joel to go deaf in his good ear was a hard pass, that he wouldn't do. In fact, he would. The moment she gave him her puppy eyes and asked him to take her, he would do it, even if he tried tricking himself, however, luck seemed to be standing by his side, as Tommy happened to start dating this chick who was also obsessed with that Harry guy and when she got herself and Tommy a ticket, Sarah was all set. And so was Joel, because without anyone knowing, he managed to get a free night with you. And in the blink of an eye, you and Joel seemed way more excited for the Harry Styles concert than Sarah.

So when she complained she didn't actually have anything nice to wear, you thought of doing that for her, it would be fun, a change of just staying inside reading books, you could spend some girl time together and while you were out with her, you could really watch Sarah, the way she behaved, how she talked and acted, it reminded you so much of Joel, you wondered if she'd taken anything from Angela at all, deep inside, you wish she didn't, even if it was a petty thing to do. The idea of Sarah being similar only to her dad was nothing but comforting and sweet to you, it was the easiest way to see the evolution he went through, unfortunately, he had to learn how to be a better person through the pain, but he had succeeded and that was what it really mattered. You didn't really care if you'd spent a lot on Sarah, you had the money after all, and she deserved it. She was happy, talking excitedly about several things, to the point she barely noticed when Joel walked towards the two of you. He had his jacket on, hair a little messy from the wind as he grinned shyly at the sight of you, his heart skipping a beat as it felt to him he was meeting his daughter and wife at the mall.

Sarah frowned, amused to see her dad, walking towards him, she hugged him, which surprised Joel a little, not expecting that gesture at that very moment.

“What are you doing here, dad?” She asked curiously as Joel greeted you by giving you a peck on the cheek, trying so hard not to seem he was practically drooling over you.

“Tommy needed to buy his girlfriend whatever and asked me for a ride, so while he disappeared into the crowd I was trying to find him” he explained and stared at you “you girls are having fun, I see?” He raised his eyebrow and Sarah eagerly nodded, lifting her bags a little and showing him everything you'd bought her. He was so thankful for everything you were doing for his daughter, especially because he was sure you did it out of kindness and the fact you care about her. You watched their interaction and bit your lips in anticipation, you felt a sudden urge to kiss Joel in front of everyone and walk around the mall holding hands with him, you had never discussed that before, but the thought of it made your heart race. Sarah exchanged a few words with her dad before her eyes went wide as she spotted one of her best friends a couple of stores ahead and smiled big

“Dad, can I go show Nat the things I got? Please?! I'll be right back!” She asked with her sweet eyes and Joel agreed, telling her you two would be around as he intended to keep you company. As you walked towards another store with Joel following you, Sarah soon got entertained with her friend in an ice cream booth nearby. You both chuckled at the scene and he quickly placed his hand on the small of your back.

“Is Tommy really shopping around for his girlfriend or were you just stalking us?” You teased Joel, entering the lingerie store, earning a gasp from him before he could actually answer your question.

“Don't even think about it, Miller, I'm here just to buy some sports bra to go to the gym and nothing more” you added but the mischievous look in his eyes was extremely well-known.

“That's a shame, because this one would look so good on you” he pointed at a lilac lacey pair of underwear, his mouth watering at how beautiful you would certainly get in it, and how stripping you out of all that lace would feel like unwrapping a Christmas gift. You frowned at him, reminding him you were just there to buy a couple of things and leave, in fact, you shouldn't have even let Joel get inside the store with you, it wouldn't be appropriate and how would he explain to Sarah what the hell he was doing there in the first place. Joel, on the other hand, was pretty much entertained by all the beautiful colors and shapes the tiny pieces of fabric came with; he could picture every inch of your body in them, trying to guess which ones would look better. He knew all of them would be just perfect, but he was a guy who was simply drawn to the traditional good old red lacey; it was gorgeous, and it would be a nice gift for the two of you. As he looked around to find you and show you what he'd decided to treat you to, you were nowhere to be seen; the sales clerk already busy with the new customers walking into the store, he decided to wander after you. He was thankful no one seemed to mind nor notice him there, too worried to be seen as a creep, but determined to find you nonetheless; as he got to the fitting room area, he quickly called your name.

“What now, Joel?!” You immediately replied from the one in the corner, slightly annoyed at the fact he'd followed you there, sometimes Joel was a little like a stray puppy, coming after you with those big sad brown eyes, and even if you wanted to shop for freaking sports bras on your own, you couldn't help but enjoy the fact he was just so needy of you.

When Joel opened the door and got inside, you even tried to argue and ask him what the heck he was doing there, but instead, he smirked, gripping your sides and kissing you as a way to keep you silent. You wanted to push him away and tell him to fuck off, but the rushing adrenaline you felt through your veins made you feel alive, and as always, Joel's touch set you on fire. He broke the kiss dragging his lips over to your neck and then your collarbone, his hands climbing up your sides and going to your breasts, squeezing them softly

“This sports bra ain't bad, but I'd say a work of art like your body should have more lace, or glitter or whatever shit you like” he said in a grunt and lowered your top, even against your protests that weren't much more than just some whimpers that couldn't convince you, let alone Joel. You could feel his beard scratching down your chest and going straight to your breasts, lips wrapping around your nipples as he suckled on it gently at first, flicking it with his tongue before moving to your other breast and working the same magic. Your heart raced to the point you could feel your blood rushing through your ears, the fact you both could be caught at any moment and kicked out of the store, or even worse: be arrested for public indecency, added a hint of fear to the traditional lust you had for Joel; that man would be the dead of you, that much you were sure of.

“We can't Joel…” you mumbled against his curls, his head on your chest as his fingers found their way down your belly, getting so close to your sweet spot, he was so needy of you, wanting all of you to the point it felt he would go crazy. His digits toyed with the hem of your panties, while you pulled his curls a little, making him groan.

“Sorry honey” you whispered and kissed this temple, which made him smile. Joel was about to finger you in a fitting room in the middle of a store and you were so sweet to him, it made his heart ache a little, at the realization he definitely didn't deserve you. He kissed you once more and nibbled your lower lips the moment his fingers reached your core, spreading your lips apart and finding your needy clit, already so hard and wet, just for him to enjoy. He wasn't going to tease you, you both didn't have time for it, so instead, he played with your wetness, before shoving his fingers inside of you, stretching you up the way you both knew and enjoyed it, he thumbed with your clit before focusing all his ministrations into your tight cunt, feeling your muscles squeezing and clenching around him. He'd kill to have his cock inside of you instead of his fingers, but that would have to wait. He felt your teeth on his shoulder, while your pussy gushed at the same time you came for him. He felt your body going limp, sustaining your weight with his free hand

“Taste yourself, princess” he whispered against your ear and held his fingers up, waiting for you to wrap your devilish lips around them and lick them clean. Joel felt the urge to take you right there and then, but he was a patient man and knew things would have to wait. He kissed your lips goodbye and exited the fitting room after making sure no one was around to see him.

The sales clerk was a little confused when she saw Joel walking towards the register with a blood red pair of lacey lingerie, she couldn't remember seeing him walk into the store and let alone hang around, but the work policy forced her to smile at him and be helpful, especially when he got his wallet out and extended his credit card.

“I'd like you to gift wrap this and give it to the beautiful lady who's trying sports bra in the fitting room, tell her it's my treat” he winked at the woman, aware he could use his charms in his own favor. She agreed to his request and he left the store just like any other ordinary customer, at the same time you received the package as a present the moment you tried paying for your stuff.

•••

After waiting what it seemed like forever, the Harry Styles concert was about to happen, which caused Joel to have a break from his brother, his girlfriend Maria and Sarah, who insisted they all spend hours waiting in line. His heart was full of joy and pride to see how happy his precious daughter was, the way she could barely sleep at night and that guy was the only thing she ever talked about. It was amusing to him, even if he ran out of patience from time to time, it was amazing to see his little girl looking like a beautiful young woman in her new outfit bursting with happiness. Joel couldn't also complain about the fact he managed to enjoy a full day by himself and get ready to receive you through the night. He'd gone grocery shopping, buying all the kinds of treats he knew you loved - or used to, as people could often change their personal taste over the years, but instead of seeing that with sadness, he felt glad to be able to learn something new about the woman he was madly in love with. He was going to go for some beer, but Joel thought again and decided to pick some wine, he just thought you were more of a wine kind of woman, more elegant than just cheap beer.

What you both hadn't counted on, was how hot the weather was, even if the sun had set down, it was still uncomfortable to remain inside, which made Joel suggest you both should move your date night to the swimming pool. At first you thought he was joking, but the stern look on his face told you he was being completely serious, and you thought it was a nice change. The way Joel took the bottle of wine, the glasses and simply began undressing without a word made you puzzled, until he turned around and told you to take off your clothes as well.

One skinny-dipping adventure and a quicky in his pool later, you both took sips of your wine, as you pressed yourself against him; Joel's arms were tight around your body as you rested your head on his chest, kissing it gently, and listening to his heartbeats, it was scary how out of the sudden, his arms became your favorite place in the world. You were far too deep into this story, and there was no way out without getting hurt, but that wasn't the time to think of that, you didn't want to have those kinds of thoughts, you wanted to spend your time with Joel and get lost into him, just as he was into you.

“Sarah told me you have a girlfriend” you blurted out, making Joel raise his eyebrow at you and looking down at you

“What?!”

“Well, she said you seemed happier lately, always texting someone, sneaking out here and there…” you chuckled “I wonder who that bitch is” Joel laughed at your comment, his hand sliding down your back and resting on your ass, squeezing it and then pecking your lips.

“She ain't no bitch, I can assure you that much” he said gently and nuzzled your neck “she's gorgeous, she's the best thing that's ever happened to me, well, after Sarah, of course, but still, and she was so kind to forgive me after everything I've done” his lips were back on your cheek and then on your lips “and I love her very much”

For a moment your whole world stopped. Joel loved you. He admitted it out loud, it wasn't just a matter of simple assumptions, but rather a concrete, explicit feeling. You opened your mouth looking at him hesitantly, what exactly should you say? What could you tell Joel? Did you love him back? If so, were you ready to admit it and face the consequences of getting back together with the man who caused the biggest emotional trauma of your life. Joel took his hands off your body and looked at you with a hint of disappointment, even if he didn't want to admit it, he was disappointed, he thought you shared the same feeling as he did, so he sighed and nodded.

“It's fine, you don't have to say it back…” he cleared his throat and swam to the ladder of the pool “it's getting a little chilly, I think we should get inside”

•••

A few days later, your conversation with Joel simply wouldn't leave your mind; you were in love with him, it was impossible for anyone not to notice, him included, and yet, you didn't understand why it was so hard for you to simply admit it. Perhaps, if you did it, then it would become real, and your relationship with him would stop being a fun, little secret shared by the two of you, but rather a concrete relationship between two adults, where you'd eventually have to come clean and open up to family, friends, you would celebrate birthdays and holidays, anniversaries and face several, typical questions coming from all sides, wondering if you would both remarry or have kids. It was overwhelming, but not as bad as how you were feeling at that moment. You felt guilty and embarrassed, and the paranoid side of you was convinced Joel had been avoiding you for the past week, whereas Sarah was at your place nearly everyday, still talking about Harry Styles and showing you countless pictures of the concert, he wouldn't text much nor insist to see you, even when you suggested him to sneak out late at night and go to yours, he politely declined by saying Tommy and him got a new big client and work was rushed and soul crushing. Of course he could be telling you the truth, he did sound exhausted on the phone and Sarah had mentioned Joel and Tommy had been arriving late most days, both of them covered in sweat and in such a bad mood due to the unbelievable amount of work they were having. Yet, what should make you feel calm and at ease, didn't help one bit, it was uncomfortable and depressing not having Joel around, you missed him, his touch, his body but mostly his presence. He'd been a constant in your life for the past months, and it was only taking a week for you to feel abandoned. It wasn't fair to you, and yet, it wasn't fair to him either, not when he declared his love for you and you couldn't even say it back. You placed your living room, not sure whether you should drive to his home or not, in fact, you knew you shouldn't, but you wanted to, because that particular day, not even Sarah showed up, and it made you sad. You were so attached to the little family destiny set apart for you, simply a day or two away from them was enough to cause a large wound in your heart. You looked around, looking for an excuse to show up at the Miller's household; until your eyes widened and you grinned to see Sarah's history book lying around your coffee table. It was the perfect excuse to go and see them! Perhaps you could even end up having dinner with them, and then make up an excuse about a flat tire or whatever, have Joel giving you a ride home and end up being railed by him in the back of his truck. The longing for Joel was increasing and all you wanted was to make things right by explaining him you did have feelings for him and you needed some time, but you were willing to make sacrifices in order to be with him, because you wanted to and it was important for you that he saw how appreciated he was by you.

On your way to Joel's, you stopped at a bakery you knew Sarah loved, thinking of all the delicious treats you could take so you'd keep your family spoiled, at least a little. You smiled at yourself the moment you chose a couple of cupcakes, cookies and the chicken pie Joel loved, thinking of how you were already addressing them as your family. The truth is that they were indeed your family, the connection you three had was strong, the bond you created with Sarah without even knowing for a fact who she was and later on all that passion for Joel surfacing after spending a decade buried deep inside of you. It was a waste of time fighting that, and you wanted to get to them as soon as possible, you'd been alone far too long, it was about time to yourself have one good thing, to break free and admit how happy you were next to the Millers. You loved them just as they loved you, and it made no sense to fight that feeling and pretend it didn't exist.

The ride wasn't long, there was hardly any traffic in the suburbs, most families were already inside, having dinner together as the sun had set and the street lights were all lit up, as you parked your car, you saw Joel's truck in the driveway and felt your chest tightening in anxiety and fear; if he was already home why didn't he call or text you? Maybe he was indeed avoiding you?! Joel wouldn't make the same mistake twice and push you away, would he? You shook your head, you had faith in him, faith you both had matured and were able to handle things by talking and being honest with each other; you licked your lips and sighed, knowing that whatever was going on could be solved by the two of you as two functional adults, besides, there were a bunch of explanations to why he hadn't talked to you that day yet, you shouldn't jump to conclusions and let your paranoia win once more. You got out of the car with the bag full of treats and walked to the front door, you knocked a couple of times and waited for an answer but nobody came. It was odd, as you could hear Joel's and Sarah's voices coming from inside, and even if you couldn't tell what they were saying your heart raced, your gut feeling telling you something was up and you couldn't wait any longer, silently opening the door and getting inside. You placed the bag of food down the coffee table as you could clearly hear what they were saying. It seemed Joel and Sarah were arguing, which was extremely odd, since you had never seen them have any kind of disagreement, they just had a real nice and healthy father and daughter relationship in which they both listened to each other and acted with respect. As you approached, you heard Sarah's cries and you were taken by worry, perhaps someone had died? You couldn't wait any longer, you rushed and got into the kitchen, confused at first at what had happened between them, Joel looked so overwhelmed, his face was red and he desperately tried to make a point while telling Sarah a bunch of information she could barely cope with, as she cried in disappointment and shook her head, not believing anything her dad was saying. Her heart was shattered with disappointment and sadness, she couldn't believe her dad, her hero, the man she loved and admired the most in her life had done such a thing.

On the kitchen table, a photograph taken on your wedding day was lying around. A younger version of yourself hugged a much younger Joel as you both stood in front of the courthouse, smiling widely at the camera. There was no way to deny it nor hide it. Sarah had found out about your previous connection god knows how and Joel seemed desperate as he wanted to explain himself to his daughter, he couldn't bear having her so disappointed in him like that, it shattered his heart into a million pieces.

“Sarah…” you whispered and tried touching her cheek, wanting to caress it gently and assure her everything was fine now, that what had happened was in the past and that her dad was still the best father a girl could ever wish for. But Sarah moved her face away from your touch, her eyes were glistening with tears as she seemed so heartbroken

“You both lied to me! Why did you lie?” She asked and you looked at Joel wanting to have some kind of support in order to reply to her question.

“Sarah, we are both sorry, but your dad and I have made up after what happened, I know it's a lot to take now but don't be upset please” you asked her, Joel nodded and wrapped his arm around your waist in order to show her things were fine between the two of you. He promised to talk to her and explain everything to her in detail, but she was just so upset, feeling betrayed by the person she admired and loved the most in the whole world. You knew there was nothing you both could do at that moment, not with Sarah being so nervous and upset, instead, you asked Joel to call Tommy and suggested that he took her out for ice cream or something, maybe have a little chat with his niece while you and Joel could sit down and figure the best way to tell her everything. It didn't take more than twenty minutes for his younger brother to arrive, Sarah had drunk some water and washed her face, leaving with Tommy as you sat next to Joel. You took his hand and caressed it, while he refused to look you in the eye, the guilt and shame once more eating him alive, and now it had become even worse, as his precious little Sarah had found out the truth about him in the worst way possible. All she needed was an old picture for her school project and going through Joel's old memory box should be enough, and then she came across the pictures of his wedding day. Not to her mom, but to you instead, and then it all made sense: why you were never willing to be around her dad, or how you decided to keep yourself away from any kind of relationship. Because the asshole you told her you'd married once, was simply her father. The good old Joel Miller, the man who had to raise his baby daughter on his own after she left him, and then, Sarah had found out her dad had been really bad to someone so dearly to her. You, you could've been married to her dad, you could've been her mom, she could've had a family all along.

You looked at Joel and wiped a single tear that rolled down his cheek, even if he tried to hide it.

“What are we doing now, Joel?”

“I don't know…”

____

A/N: what a ride, right besties? Remember, feedback is life ❤️

#pedro pascal #pedro pascal x reader #pedro pascal x you #pedro pascal x y/n #pedro pascal fanfiction #pedro pascal fanfic #pedro pascal one shot #joel miller #joel miller x reader #joel miller x you #joel miller x y/n #joel miller fanfiction #joel miller fanfic #joel miller one shot #joel miller story #pedro pascal story

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annaxbree · 8 months ago

Text

talk back (pt 2)

nate doe x reader

warnings: cursing, mentions of alcohol

previous part

"a few people" was their answer when i asked how big of a gathering this would be.

the triplets had just hit another milestone in their career, which called for a celebration.

and while the get-together was limited to close friends, it was still more than a few people.

and, of course, they had invited him to the celebration. why wouldn't they ? nate is their best friend, after all.

despite this fact, i was still surprised to see him walk through the door with that annoying smirk planted on his face.

he looked good, i'd never tell him that though.

his head turned in my direction, but before we could make eye contact i moved my head to face the direction nick was sitting.

"im getting a drink" i whispered, standing up from the couch. nick only nodded, already engrossed in conversation with a friend.

i let out a sigh as i made a beeline towards the table that was littered with drinks, i guess they planned on getting a little drunk tonight.

before i could even pick out what drink i wanted, i felt his breath on my neck.

his hand found its way to the small of my back while he reached around me to grab a cup.

instead of doing so, however, he craned his neck downward to look at me. his face was mere inches away from my own.

"so do you just never know what you want to drink, then, princess?" he asked, his breath tickling my face. "or did you need my help again?"

i watched his lips move while he talked, caught in a daze as i thought about the way they felt against mine.

it took me a minute to snap out of it, but when i finally did i was quick to make a comeback.

" i never asked for your help in the first place" i spoke.

"so you're just standing here looking around for no reason?"

"i got here like four seconds before you did" i deadpanned.

"yeah, it seemed like you were running away from me. you scared of something?"

"yeah, that massive forehead"

before he could say anything back, he was interrupted by the voice of nick.

"of course you two are here together" nick spoke. "the hell is that supposed to mean?" i asked.

"all i'm saying is you two have a tendency to disappear together at parties. what were you two doing in the bathroom together, anyway?"

"oh, i'd actually love to talk about this right now, but i'm pretty sure i hear chris calling me" he spoke as he backed away slowly.

before anyone could stop him, he was already gone.

"do you hear that? i think i hear madi calling me" i spoke, poking my thumb in the opposite direction.

"yeah, nice try"

"are you kidding me? nate just did the exact same thing" i pointed out.

"yeah, well nate doesn't owe me an explanation. you do"

"ok, fine. we just spent time in the bathroom...but nothing happened" i spoke.

"spent time in the bathroom doing what?"

"you know....talking"

"girl, you're not fooling anybody...especially not me"

"we kissed..."

"....for 10 minutes?"

"what, did you time it? "

"no, bitch, it was an educated guess"

"ok... so, we kissed for 10 minutes" i spoke with a shrug.

"and why are you just telling me this now?" he asked.

" 'cause i regret it, and it never should have happened in the first place"

"nick!" madi yelled from across the room, "come over here! matt and chris want pictures!"

while nick walked away from me, nate walked towards me. instead of stopping, however, he grabbed my arm and pulled me around the corner wordlessly.

he pushed me against the wall, caging me in with his arms.

"that's funny, didn't seem like you regretted it when you were moaning my name" he rasped.

"what are you talking about?" i asked.

"don't act like you didn't just tell nick you regretted it"

"how do you know i was talking about you"

"who else would you be talking about?"

"well, why would you assume you're the only guy i'm talking to?"

"am i?"

"that really doesn't concern you"

"what if i want it to?"

"what if you shut up and kiss me?"

"you know for someone who claims they don't want me, you're pretty needy"

"if you don't want to kiss me, i'll go find someone who will"

"shut up" he spoke before leaning down and closing the gap between us.

tag list: taglist: @creamoncreamoncream2 @freshloveforthefit @patscorner @sturniolosmind @sturniolosloves

#nathan doe fic #nate doe fanfic #nathan doe x you #nathan doe x reader #nate doe x you #nate doe x reader #nathan doe imagine #nate doe fic #nate doe imagine #nathan doe #nate doe

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swarvey · 6 months ago

Text

paper rings | harvey x f!reader

summary -> you convince harvey to go in the maze with you; harvey has some trouble sleeping. warnings -> not nsfw: mention of shane's cliff scene | nsfw! mdni. p in v, oral sex (reader receives), reader and harvey share a drink before wc -> 5025

a/n: i swear this chapter just. wrote itself. i think i blacked out writing half of it but i hoped y'all enjoy!!!, if there is any chapter where i recommend you to listen to the song in the title, it's this one!!! pls <333

also i'd love to hear where you guys think this is going heh

ch. 7 | ch. 8 | ch. 9

paper rings masterlist

chapter eight: i can see you -> "but what would you do if i went to touch you now?"

Harvey wouldn’t necessarily say he was a terrible sleeper.

Sure, he had his nights where the blankets wouldn’t feel quite right and the pillows refused to agree with him, but even then, he would typically fall asleep one way or another. Eight hours of undisturbed sleep was always his goal, and a couple of cups of coffee throughout the day would never fail to give him the push he needed. Although he used to be quite the night owl during his time at university — to the point where he had a regular rotation of energy drinks in his fridge — Harvey found he now preferred waking up early and having a slow start to his day.

That night, though, the clock struck an hour he hadn’t encountered in years.

3:43 A.M.

He knew it was going to hurt him throughout the next day, especially when he would inevitably have to open up the clinic and prepare for any patients. He knew it was unlike him, that logically, he should be reaching for his bottle of melatonin and taking a couple of pills to lull him to his dreams. He knew, of course, he knew, he was a doctor — he’d heard all of it throughout med school, how essential sleep was in everyone’s daily routine.

But how could he?

How could he allow his worn, blurry eyes to close and sink into the exhaustion weighing down his body, when you were fast asleep beside him?

It was wrong. Everything about the situation was completely and utterly wrong.

First off, he was absolutely not supposed to be in his bed, watching you peacefully doze with the blankets half-covering you. He resisted his urge to scoop you up into his arms and pretend the scene was normal.

Secondly, your clothes were not on your body, but instead were scattered across the bedroom. Harvey could feel your bare back just barely grazing his arm with every breath you took. As he glanced to the floor on his side of the bed, he could vaguely make out the shape of your bra, blushing at the memory that tagged along with it.

Thirdly, he should be asleep — he should have been asleep hours ago.

Yet, there he was, contemplating what choices had led him there in the first place.

A few hours earlier

“Harvey,” you said, crossing your arms and giving your best friend a deathly stare, “stop being such a baby.”

“Y/N, you of all people know I have never been fond of Spirit’s Eve,” he reasoned, holding his hands out in defense. “I am not stepping foot in that maze again. I refuse.”

Suddenly, you felt as if you were ten again, scowling before dragging Harvey off your farm. Your pet looked at you and wagged its tail as you bolted past it, tilting its head at the man who was begrudgingly letting you take him with you. You’d invited him to dinner at your place before the festival as a “treat,” though you really just wanted the opportunity to persuade him. After all those years, though, it seemed your friend was still the same ball of anxiety he’d always been.

“Please, I even tried doing it by myself last year, I couldn’t make it past the first turn. I’ll do anything else!” Harvey all but begged, and you glanced back at him with a skeptical stare. “I swear.”

You paused your steps, the cold, Fall air blowing on the back of your neck. “Really?” you asked, thinking of ways you could test his promise. “Anything?”

“Anything.”

Kiss me.

“Come to the mines with me.”

“What?! Absolutely not! I’ve treated the wounds you’ve gotten from that place — after countless reminders to be careful, mind you,” he chastised, and a smile twitched on your lips at the sight of his concern. “I wouldn’t last five minutes!”

“Exactly,” you responded bluntly. “But I bet you’d make it at least five minutes in the maze.”

He frowned, and when he didn’t reply, you decided you had to pull out your ultimatum.

Sighing, you turned around and forced yourself to hold back a grin at the sound of Harvey’s knowing groan.

“Oh, not this, Y/N, you can’t pull this again—”

“It’s fine!” you interrupted, beginning to walk away from him. “It’s totally fine, Harvs. I’ll just go in there, alone.”

“Please, this trick has worked on me enough in the past, but I won’t budge this time around.” Sure. As if you couldn’t already hear his determination wavering.

You shrugged. “Alright. Hopefully I’ll have fun in there, all by myself.” You stopped, turning your head slightly so you could emphasize your voice. “Without my closest friend. Who I haven’t gone to this festival with in years.”

You could practically see his defense crumble, closing your eyes and smiling triumphantly as he defeatedly walked up to you. “Fine,” Harvey sighed, and you peeked with one eye to see him shaking his head. “Let’s go.”

“Yes,” you laughed, grabbing his arm once more and excitedly heading to the festival you’d waited all year for.

As a kid, you had always loved Spirit’s Eve — the music, the food, the costumes, and, most importantly, the maze. You didn’t get to experience it too often, since you usually had to head back home by that time of the season, but when you did, it’d been some of the most fun you’d ever had. Before getting to know Harvey too well, your grandfather took you through the maze every year, keeping your hand tightly in his as he calmly took the lead. Whenever you flinched or shied away in fear, he would stop and reassure you. You still remembered how he’d kneel in front of you, meeting your teary, wide eyes with his own loving gaze.

“You don’t have to be scared, kiddo,” he said, patting your shoulder. “Your grandpa’s here to protect you. Besides, soon enough, you’ll be strong enough where you’ll need to protect me!”

He never failed to get a laugh out of you, no matter the place or time. It was back then you’d decided you would always try to be brave, and before you knew it, you were tackling the maze all by yourself, walking out triumphantly with the treasure in hand each time.

That is, until you met Harvey, and your visits to your favorite attraction were put on hold.

You couldn’t really complain, not when it meant you got to do arts and crafts with him at the kids’ table instead.

At your age, though, Harvey wasn’t allowed to have any more excuses. As the two of you entered the plaza, you were prepared to head straight to the maze, making a beeline for it when—

“Oof!”

“Oh my, I must apologize!”

You recognized the overly formal voice almost immediately, rubbing your forehead as you looked up at Elliott’s apologetic face.

“Are you alright?” he asked rapidly, grabbing your shoulders and checking you up and down. “I hope I didn’t startle you too much, especially on this already frightening night! Ah, Harvey, you are of medical expertise. Please, check our dear farmer and make sure she’s fine.”

“Elliott, please,” you laughed, shrugged off his hands, and nudged his arm. “It was an accident.”

“And she’s survived worse things,” Harvey chimed in. “I see you’ve already begun to enjoy the pumpkin ale?”

“What?” the poet questioned, running a hand through his silky hair. “Just what makes you think that, my friend?”

“Hey, if it isn’t the doc!” Shane seemed to answer his question for him, his voice a little too bright to be sober as he walked over beside Elliott. He perked a brow at you. “And he brought the farmer, too. Shocker.”

“Hello to you, too, Shane,” you greeted, noting the half-empty glass of ale in his hand. “You going to behave tonight?”

He huffed, offering the rest of his drink to you. You gladly took it, taking a sip and relishing in the delicious hint of sweet pumpkin. “You’re just a damn ray of sunshine, aren’t you?”

You gave Shane a satisfied smile as he shoved his hands in his pockets, the three of you listening to whatever ghost story Elliott was blabbering on about. All jokes aside, you had been a bit worried about Harvey’s friend. You’d known for a while he had a drinking problem, even sitting with him on the dock one night to have a few drinks with him, but never knew the extent to its severity until you found him beside a cliff one stormy day.

Since then, you made sure to check in on him once in a while and drop off a basket of peppers at Marnie’s whenever you got the chance. Your acts seemed to pay off, as the once cold man seemed to have finally warmed up to you, and as much as you despised the company he worked for, Shane proved to be a good friend. You knew him as much more than the town drunk, but as the pepper popper-loving, chicken caretaker who cherished those close to him.

Which is why you didn’t miss the curious glance he gave Harvey, to which the doctor quickly looked away and flushed pink.

Huh. Interesting.

“Some say, to this day, if you enter the Cindersnap Forest past midnight, you’ll—”

“There she is. We’ve been looking everywhere for you!” You sighed out of relief at the sound of Haley’s familiar tone, practically melting into her as she grasped your arm. “Ugh, is he telling you the story about the woods, or whatever?”

Elliott gasped in offense. “Haley, I assure you, the story has much more meaning behind it than that.”

Before he could go on, Leah poked his arm, sparing the group of another tangent. “That’s enough, El,” she said amusedly. “Come on, weren’t we headed to the maze?”

“I thought you’d never ask!” You surged forward, gesturing for everyone to follow. “You promised, Harvey!” you called out, and the look you threw at him dared him to run away.

You heard him begin to protest once again, but he was cut off by a much louder, enthusiastic voice.

“Are you guys going into the maze, too?” You turned to meet Alex, accompanied by Sam’s bright grin. “You’re not scared, are you, farmer?” he taunted, leaning forward so his eyes were right in front of yours.

“Me?” You pressed a hand to your chest, looking back at him in shock. “Of all people? No way.”

The jock shrugged and backed off, flashing you a confident smile. “Whatever you say. If you need a bodyguard, you know who to call.” With that, he and his friend walked into the entrance, bumping into each other’s shoulders as they joked around.

Haley scoffed. “What an idiot. You could definitely kick his ass.” Leah laughed, and you noticed the soft smile that sat on the blonde’s lips at the sound. Who would’ve thought? Suddenly, you felt like you were third-wheeling.

Thankfully, Harvey came to your rescue, marching in front of the three of you with a renewed passion in his step. He looked over his shoulder, and you almost didn’t recognize the look in his eyes.

“Well?” he asked persistently. “Are we going?”

Harvey knew he was being painfully obvious at that point. He also knew Alex didn’t have bad intentions at all, that, if anything, the two of them had a common goal: to keep you safe.

He’d be lying if he said he cared, though.

If you’d told him a year ago he would be leading a group of people into the maze he’d feared pretty much his entire life, he would call you a liar. If you added in the fact he was doing it to impress you, he would tell you to set up an appointment with him so he could check your head. Yet, there he was, egging you and everyone else on to get their asses in the attraction already so he could prove you didn’t need some gridball player to protect you.

The second he stepped foot through the entrance, though, Harvey seriously questioned if it was worth it.

He never liked scary things — he was an awful person to watch horror movies with, and he had always been easy to startle, as you liked to prove time and time again. He didn’t really see a point in them. Why would he want to be terrified, when he could relax and enjoy himself instead? Logically, there was no real appeal to be scared.

Although, it seemed all logic was out the door, seeing that he’d already zoned out and gotten lost.

Fuck.

You’d been right there moments before, he swore on it. As Harvey frantically looked around him, though, he found he was alone, surrounded by the thick brush of the maze’s walls and chilling noises that gave him goosebumps. Sometimes, he truly questioned how he’d earned a college degree and even passed medical school with a brain like his. It seemed to stop working every time you were in the picture. I am an unbelievable idiot.

“Harvey?”

He blinked. He wasn’t being tricked, was he?

“Harvey, is that you?”

As the voice grew closer, Harvey realized it was not, in fact, a trick, and that he recognized the figure in front of him.

“Maru,” he breathed, shoulders slumping in relief. “God, I’m so relieved.”

She laughed at his reaction, and Harvey faintly remembered a time when his heart would have pounded at the sound. That was in the past, though, when he’d first moved to the Valley.

When he thought you had slipped from his grasp.

“What are you even doing here?” she asked. “I thought you hated this place.”

“Yes, well, uh, Y/N has always enjoyed it, so I thought I would give it another go.”

She glanced around them. “So, you came here with Y/N?”

“Yes, along with Leah and Haley.”

“Uh-huh. And just how did you get this lost?”

He sighed. “You tell me. Mazes have never really been my forte.”

She laughed again as she walked in front of him, gesturing for him to follow with a wave. “Come on, we’ll find them together.”

“Thank you, Maru.”

“Anytime, Harvey.”

The two fell into a comfortable silence as they trekked on, both listening for any familiar voices. Harvey had to admit, he felt much better with Maru there; her confidence as she walked reminded him of you. He couldn’t help but notice, though, the odd look in her eye, as if she were thinking something he didn’t quite understand.

“Are you alright?” he asked, slowing his pace. “You look a bit bothered.”

She didn’t reply right away, but paused her steps to look at him. “You . . . really like the farmer, don’t you?”

Oh, no. “Wh-What? I mean, of course I do, we’ve known each other for such a long time—”

“You know what I mean, Harvey.” There was no hostility in her tone, no bite. If anything, she sounded amused. “I think everyone’s seen it except you two.”

“I—” He paused. What was the point? “I suppose you’re right,” he admitted.

“Well,” Maru started, placing her hands on her hips, “you better treat her properly, okay? Honestly, if you felt that way, you should have asked her out in the Spring! What’s with all this dodging around and pretending you don’t feel it? Before you know it, it might be too late.”

There was an edge to her tone with those words, but Harvey didn’t have time to process it, distracted by the large shadow approaching them. Instinctively, he grabbed Maru and pushed her behind him, his own fear making his heart feel as if it were about to fly out of his chest.

“Is that you, Harvs?” At the sound of your voice, he could have cried in relief. “Seriously, how can someone get lost so quickly?”

You walked up to him with your two friends by your side, immediately eyeing the hand he had wrapped around Maru’s wrist. He dropped it, grateful the darkness hid his embarrassed face.

“I guess I got a bit ahead of myself,” he said, clearing his throat. Haley was glaring daggers into his skull. “Sorry for worrying you.”

You shook your head, sighing. “I mean, weren’t you the one who was terrified of coming in here in the first place? What’s gotten into you?”

“Actually,” Maru interrupted, stepping out from behind him, “Harvey was just talking about how he isn’t feeling very well.”

You perked a brow at him. “Really? Please don’t tell me you’re going to throw up in here, again.”

Harvey side-eyed Maru quickly — who refused to meet his glance — before nodding. “I am feeling a bit nauseous,” he agreed, and honestly, it wasn’t a complete lie. He was sure one more scare would cause the dinner you made him to end up on the side of the path.

“Gross,” Haley commented, taking Leah’s hand and continuing on with her. “I am not sticking around to deal with that. Come on, Maru.”

“Wait, where are you—”

“Drop him off, Y/N! Come find us when he isn’t about to yack all over the maze.”

Harvey gave you a sheepish smile as you gave him an exasperated look. “Come on, then, you big baby,” you said, though he managed to catch the smile that took over your scowl. “Let’s get you home.”

The walk back was somehow worse than he remembered. Harvey swore the route changed every turn, but you seemed to walk confidently through each pathway. He had always admired how level-headed you were in such tense environments, unable to fathom how you were able to tackle such places like the mines or the woods at night. Then again, you’d always been the braver one.

“You know where we’re going, right?” he questioned, just to make sure.

“Oh, I have no idea,” you replied, a bit too relaxed for his liking. “We’ll figure it out.”

“What?!”

Snap!

Harvey let out a shout and jumped. Despite his antics, his arm still shot out in front of you protectively, and you immediately began looking around to find the source of the sound.

Suddenly, the path wasn’t dark anymore.

A glowing, blue light filled Harvey’s eyes, and it took a moment for him to adjust to the brightness before he saw what was in front of him.

There it was. The blue spirit he’d seen under your steps the day you moved in.

“Blue? What are you doing here?” you asked it casually, pushing his arm down and kneeling to greet the small figure. “You nearly gave him a heart attack, you know.” You nodded your head towards him, and the Junimo directed a small squeak upwards in apology.

“You . . . you’re friends with a Junimo?” he clarified incredulously. He dropped down beside you and stuck his hand out, eyes widening as it touched his finger.

You smiled. “Harvey, this is Blueberry. Blueberry, Harvey.”

“You’re friends with a Junimo,” Harvey softly repeated, looking at you in awe. “You never cease to amaze me, truly.”

You didn’t respond, instead keeping your eyes on the spirit. “Care to show us the way out?” After letting out a responsive squeak, Blueberry turned around and began to light the way.

As the two of you followed your tiny friend, Harvey couldn’t help but keep track of each time his hand brushed against yours and the way your eyes kept darting over to his. The entire situation was tempting him; you, in the dark, alone with him. A scenario filled his head before he could even register what he was thinking — images of you, your back up against the hedges as he pressed his lips into your neck, his arms wrapped around you as you cried out his name, over and over as he took off your top—

“Hey, is that it?”

Harvey’s thoughts were cut short by your voice, looking down to realize Blueberry was no longer there. Looking into the distance, though, he could see the light of the entrance, the sound of people talking and kids laughing flooding his ears. He let out a deep breath he didn’t realize he was holding, gladly matching your quick pace out of the cursed place.

“Finally,” he breathed. Harvey had never been more glad to see Pelican Town’s bustling plaza. “I thought we’d never make it out.” An exaggeration, sure, but it was the only way he could express his feelings.

You scoffed lightly, patting his back. “Please, stop being so dramatic. You owe me, by the way. I totally would have gotten the treasure by now if it weren’t for you.”

He paused. His fantasy still lingered on his mind, and for once, just once, Harvey decided to be a little impulsive.

“How about a glass of wine, then?” he offered, trying his best to look at you as naturally as possible. “I ordered a new one from a winery and it just came in, unopened. I think you’ll like it.”

You hummed in thought, then nodded. “I think that’ll do,” you replied nonchalantly. Was that a hint of pink in your cheeks? “Just a glass, though?”

He chuckled, then began to walk towards the clinic. It’s just a drink, that’s all. Nothing more. We’ve drank together before. This is normal.

“However many you’d like, Y/N.”

Maybe his answer should have been different, more precise.

Maybe, if he’d forced himself to have more self-control, he would have walked you home after the two of you finished the entire bottle.

Maybe then, he wouldn’t be spilling the rest of your drink onto your shirt as he kissed you, absentmindedly grabbing the glass and setting it on the coffee table as he pressed you into the couch, lost in the flavor of the wine mixed onto your lips.

“Harvey,” you gasped out, your hand grasping his hair as he lived his fantasy and moved down to your neck, sucking on a spot that made you moan as he hummed into your skin. “God, fuck, Harvey, please.”

The buzz of the alcohol gave Harvey the courage he needed to slip his hands under your shirt, working his way up your sides before grazing over your breasts through your bra. He made quick riddance of your top, throwing it somewhere he couldn’t care for as he finally lifted his head to take in the sight he’d been longing to see.

You were more gorgeous than he’d imagined, especially with your stained red lips and flushed face.

“You’re gorgeous,” he said out loud, voice slightly out of breath and rough.

“So are you,” you replied, sitting up and pressing a quick kiss to his lips as you stood, “and we are not doing this on the couch.” He couldn’t have agreed more.

Seeing you lay on his bed was something Harvey never thought he would actually get to witness, making him all the more committed to making you feel pleasure you’d never experienced before as he unclasped your bra. He managed to stir a couple more beautiful sounds out of you as he dragged his thumb over your nipple, pinching it lightly between his fingers. Then, you gently pushed his chest away and began unbuttoning his shirt, tossing it off the bed.

This is happening. This is actually happening.

Suddenly impatient, Harvey licked into your lips again as he pushed down your pants and kicked them away. He slipped his fingers over your underwear and groaned at the wetness he was already met with.

“I think these can go, too,” you suggested, tugging at his belt loops.

He laughed, a giddy feeling he hadn’t felt before filling his chest. “Yes, ma’am.” Just like that, he found himself naked in front of you, his hard member hitting his stomach as he knelt at the foot of the bed and dragged you forward. A smile lingered on his face at the sound of your laugh, though it quickly melted into a whine as he spread your legs and licked up your thigh. He knew it was mean; he could see how needy you were, how much you wanted more, but he desperately wanted to bring you as close to the edge as he could before he fully indulged you.

Harvey continued his movements, slowly moving further up before he finally reached the place you’d been begging him to touch, closing his lips around your clit. Your legs, thrown around his shoulders, tightened around him at the feeling of his unrelenting mouth. His arms locked around your knees to keep you in place as he stuck his tongue into you, using your loud cries as encouragement.

“Yes,” you moaned, hand grasping the sheets beneath you tightly. He groaned into you as he licked into your soaking entrance, bringing a hand up so he could sink a finger into you. “Fuck, yes, just like that.”

“God, you taste perfect,” he gasped out, watching your reaction as he worked his hand. You squirmed at his movements, eyes shut and mouth open in a silent cry. Wordlessly, he added another finger. “You look so pretty for me, honey.”

Your eyes opened at that, meeting his gaze with a look he was sure would be engraved into his head for the rest of his life. “Say it again.”

“You,” he bent down again, his lips grazing over your pulsing heat, “are beautiful.” His mouth joined his fingers, persistent on your clit as his fingers pressed into a spot that made you cry out. Your hand reached down and dug into his hair, pushing him closer to you as you came.

After a few moments, Harvey slipped his fingers out of you and wiped your slick off his chin with the back of his hand, getting back up on the bed to meet your lips. His cock was practically begging for release, sensitive to the touch as it grazed against your lower half. He moaned into you, breaking away only to rummage into the nightstand drawer beside his bed for a condom.

“I need you,” you panted, and it only encouraged him further to quickly rip the packaging and pull the condom on. “C’mon, hurry.” Your legs found themselves around his torso as he let out a breath of laughter.

“You never were the most patient, were you?”

Before you could retort, he pressed the head of his cock into you, both of you gasping at the motion. God, you were tighter than he’d ever imagined, and so warm. He swore you were made for him and him only, watching as you seemed to suck him in. Harvey’s eyes closed when he bottomed out, opening to see you teary-eyed and biting your bottom lip. His heart skipped a beat — had he been too rough?

He stopped. “Are you alright?” he asked, voice threaded with worry and guilt. He pulled out slowly, biting back a moan at how good it felt to move. “We can stop, I’m sorry—”

Your legs drew him back in with a force that made him lurch forward and grab the headboard for balance, and upon looking down at your face, Harvey realized he had never quite seen you that angry before. He swallowed nervously.

“Harvey,” you gritted out, “I swear, if you stop again, you won’t be seeing the light of day tomorrow.”

Part of him wanted to test your threat, but he decided to save it for another time, focusing instead on how inviting it was to sink back into you. His brow was knitted in pleasure as he started to move, his hips moving at a steady rate as they met yours. You moaned at the feeling as he leaned down to kiss you.

“Fuck, sweetheart, you feel so good,” he groaned, picking up his pace. “Can you hear yourself? Hear how good you are for me?” You nodded, attempting to hide your eyes behind your arm as the sound of him pounding into you filled the air. He quickly moved it and met your eyes which were hazy with pleasure.

“Harder,” you breathed out.

When had Harvey ever said no to you?

He lifted your knees and pressed them to your chest as he found a new rhythm, caging your body in between his arms as his thrusts became deeper. Then, he moved an arm down to massage your clit with his thumb, managing a half-smile at the loud reaction it elicited from you.

“Fuck, there!” you cried, your hands flying to his back and no doubt leaving marks — not that he was complaining. “Right there!”

“There you go, honey, come on—”

“Harvey—!”

You let out a wordless cry as you tightened around him, and Harvey was sure he had never felt so good in his entire life. He could feel your release wet the inside of your thighs. His thrusts became long and deep as he finished shortly after, a low moan escaping his lips as he came. He stilled inside of you as you both panted, sweat dripping down his face.

Harvey winced as he pulled out, mindlessly tying off the condom and throwing it in the trash beside his bed. He managed to find his pants in the darkness of the room and put them on before walking over to the kitchen for water.

“Are you alright?” he asked, handing you the cup.

“Never been better,” you mumbled tiredly, gladly taking a few sips before setting it aside.

“You sure? Do you need anything?”

“Stop worrying, Harvs, just go to bed.”

He smiled, grabbing the sheets from the bottom of the bed and dragging them over you. “I’m guessing you won’t be making it back to the farm tonight, then?” Harvey questioned, though he didn’t get a response. Your eyes were already shut. He wasn’t surprised — the mixture of wine and sex was getting to him, too, a wave of exhaustion beginning to hit him.

As soon as his head hit his pillow, though, realization set in, and thus began his sleepless night.

There he was; half-naked with you beside him in bed, and no clue how to approach you in the morning.

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the-writer-ofthe-fandoms · 1 year ago

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Silent Cosmos (Edward Cullen) (Ch. 3)

Pairing: Edward Cullen x GN! Mute!Reader

Words: 2.8k+

Warning(s): Two gross dudes, sexual verbal harassment (not towards reader), swearing,

A/N: omg chapter 3 is finally here. I apologize for the wait. I thought my semester this time around would be forgiving but NOPE. I had so much to do and read, I could hardly write for fun or draw either. I hadn't realized how long it had been since I last posted. I want to try a new method when writing series. I tried with my kpop writing blog, and its where I write a few chapters at a time then periodically post them. Helps keep the flow and motivation going, but that may have been a one off there.

Series Masterlist

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"O star of strength! I see thee stand And smile upon my pain; Thou beckonest with thy mailèd hand, And I am strong again... The Star of the unconquered will, He rises in my breast, Serene, and resolute, and still, And calm, and self-possessed. -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, "The Light of Stars"

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Edward hasn't been in school for the past few days.

You admittedly felt a little lonely without his presence, though Emmett and Alice have made it their mission to become your new best friends. Jasper tried but he still kept his distance from you, which you didn't mind. Rosalie helped when no other Cullen was around, although she kept a lot of conversations at a minimum, which you also didn't mind.

Alice had told you Edward had gotten a bad cold, so he is staying home. You had offered to bring him your notes the first time so he could copy them down, but Alice told you their father has him basically on lock down until he is deemed healthy. So, after you've done your homework, you've been making copies of your notes to give him when he comes back.

It's the start of a new day and once again, Edward wasn't there. You were at your locker with 15 minutes to spare. You placed the spare folder with Edward's notes on the shelf while your mind went back to that moment you two shared at the welcoming party for your uncle. You felt happy telling him all the stars and constellation you could see, and even happier when he seemed thoroughly interested in your rambles. However, you feel an inkling of guilt when you remember he gave you his jacket. Maybe he got sick from that?

"Dude, I got this weird spot on my dick."

Well, there goes your musings of guilt. You glance to your left and see two guys near you, just chilling against the lockers. You've never met them, though you do remember sharing a class or two with them separately.

"Are you really airing your business out when someone is standing right their?" The shorter one, with dirty blonde hair and hazel eyes gestures to you.

"Relax, Mark. That's the deaf student." The taller one with deep brown eyes and brown hair says with a laugh. You suppress the urge to roll your eyes and choose to just focus on the inside of your locker. Maybe you should get more decorations- "Anyways, I have this weird spot on my dick. It almost looks like I have a weird mole there. I'm hoping it's just a new mole and Cindy didn't give me something."

Gross.

"I'd get that shit checked out then. You don't want it to turn into something worse if it is an STD." Mark says with a sigh. "I told you not to sleep with her, Tony. She made my balls itch like crazy. They still fucking itch."

"I think its just a weird mole. You wanna look?" He cackles while his friend fake gags. They both push off the lockers and walk away to who knows where.

You let out a deep sigh and close your locker. At least the ignorance of other allows you to hear some gossip.

"What's with the sigh, Tiny?" Emmett calls out as he and Rosalie approach you. He has very quickly taken to the nickname Tiny for you. You suppose anyone shorter than him would be considered tiny in his eyes. Rosalie simply opened her locker as you and Emmett conversed.

"Oh, just overheard two people talking about something that should have been a private conversation." You respond with a slight shrug.

"Gah, Forks High is full of a bunch of weirdos, huh?" He grins and raises his brows a few times, crossing his arms while leaning on the locker next to you. You silently chuckle and nod, though you wondered if there was an underlying joke there.

"No Edward today?"

"Nope. Carlisle still hasn't cleared him." He sighs with a sympathetic smile. "Between you and me, Tiny, Edward is still shitting his brains out." He signed that last portion to you.

You gave him a scandalized look and playfully slapped his arm with a small chuckle. You were surprised to feel just how hard his muscles were.

"What was that for?" He gripped where you slapped and pretended to be hurt. "It was a private conversation, no one else here except Rosalie knows sign."

You roll your eyes and shake your head with a smile. You could always count on Emmett to get you to smile.

"C'mon, Rose and I will walk you to first period, like always." He grins and gestures you to follow him. Rose simply came along since she and Em were in the class next to yours. You nod and follow, happy to have good company.

---

It was a passing period and it was just you and Rose at your lockers. You grabbed a new pen and pencil since the last two you had broke and ran out of ink. Rosalie was fluffing up her already perfect, blond hair in the mirror of her locker. She and you didn't converse much, but you still liked her presence. Like the rest of the Cullens, she didn't tiptoe around you or treated you differently. She acknowledged your presence and would answer you if you had questions.

You were about finished in your locker when you heard two familiar voices keep up their gross conversations behind you.

"Dude, Rosalie has the hottest ass." Tony practically jeers, his voice intentionally loud. You glance to the blond next to you and she still keeps fixing her hair, though you can see her brows are a little more furrowed and her lips are more in the shape of a frown.

"Her tits, man, her tits are where it's at." Replies Mark and when you shift just enough to see him in the corner of your eyes, you see him make an obscene gesture.

You hear the slight creek of metal and when you look to Rose, you see her grip is so tight on her locker door that her fingers made indents which made your eyes widen for a moment. She closes her locker and you can see by her side profile she is pissed, and rightfully so.

So, you do what you think would make her laugh at the expense of those two guys.

You tap her arm to get her attention and she looks at you with a glare. You don't let it faze you. If those two are going to be gross about your friend, you'll just air out their business that they so willingly aired out by you this morning.

"You know those two jackasses?" You intentionally look to them as you sign and look back at her. "Well the brown haired one has a spot on his penis that he isn't sure if it's a mole or an STD. And his buddy likely doesn't wash right since he's had prolonged itchy balls."

Rosalie looks almost scandalized until her eyes widen for a moment as she looks at the two dudes and then back to you. She covers her mouth as she laughs when she realizes what you're trying to do.

You were about to sign some more when the two dumbasses approach.

"I know you were talking shit. What the fuck did you sign?" Tony glared, pointing an accusatory finger at you. He gets in your face and you swear you hear Rosalie growl.

You swallow thickly and decide to open your mouth. Your aunt always said you got your stubbornness from your mom.

"I said..." You try not to wince at the pain in your throat, your voice sounding hoarse. "You had a weird spot on your dick and your friend... has itchy balls." They looked at you with wide, horrified looks. "Don't talk about someone's body if you don't want yours talked about either."

"You little shit." Mark hisses and Rose steps closer to your side, an arm just barely in front of yours.

"What's going on here?" Emmetts voice grows louder as he approaches, his usual, carefree smile no longer on his face. He looked scarier than you've ever seen him. Mark and Tony looked at each other before slinking off.

Once they were gone you let out a dry, painful cough. You cover your mouth with the back of your hand and quickly grab your water and drink, soothing your throat. You could taste a tiny bit of iron in the back of your throat as you drank.

Rosalie calls your name softly. "Are you okay?"

You nod in response and take another sip of water. You didn't catch the look they gave each other or Rose gesturing for Emmett to speak.

"What happened, Tiny?" He asks in a quiet tone. You close the cap of your bottle and place it back in your bag. Your throat still ached but you knew the pain from using your larynx will linger.

You start to sign to him everything that occurred, from what you overheard in the morning to him approaching. You can see a flash of anger on his face but he goes back to that small smile. Once you explained your words to Rose and why you said them, a huge grin breaks out on his face.

"I didn't know you had it in you, Tiny." He laughs and pats your shoulder a little too firmly.

"Come, I'll walk you to class." Rosalie said with a soft tone. You nod and wave goodbye to Emmett. You both start heading down the hallway, the blond next to you tense.

When you got to your class a pale hand stopped you. You look to Rose with a questioning look while her gold eyes avoid yours.

"I just wanted to say thank you for earlier." Rosalie says, the tense look she had fades into a small smile, her eyes meeting yours. You see some vulnerability in her usually guarded gaze. She gives your shoulder a squeeze before dropping her hand. "You didn't have to do that. I'm... admittedly used to that."

"No need to thank me, Rosalie." You smile back at her.

"I do, because not many would step up like that." She softly sighs and her smile grows a bit. You felt her words had more meaning to them, but you decided to not linger on them for now. "I know I've been slightly avoiding you but I have a hard time trusting hu- new people. But, after today, I think I want to open up a bit and be friends."

"I'd like that too." You beam. "Alice has been begging me to do a shopping trip, maybe the three of us can plan a trip soon."

"I'd... I'd like that." She almost looks like she is relieved and less guarded.

"Is your hand okay?"

"What?"

"Well, I saw you grip your locker and you dented it."

"Oh. Yeah, it's fine. I work on cars and my grip is strong. It's nothing." She holds out her hands and you saw just flawless skin. "Well, I will see you soon. Class is starting."

"Talk to you later." You wave and go to class. You sit down at your usual spot and start preparing. You sigh, irritated at the way those two spoke about Rose so loudly. But you also felt happy you and Rose were close now. Her bending the locker was suspicious... there were many things off with the Cullens that you've picked up, however, you don't linger on it. They have their quirks much like you have your own.

---

Edward lounged on the couch reading, back from his trip up to the Denali clan to clear his head. After witnessing that nightmare from you, he needed a moment alone to sort his thoughts. He wasn't sure what he felt afterwards but once he took some time to sort out his thoughts, he came back to Forks. None of the others knew what happened. He didn't tell them those details of your life, as none of them were privy to it. He wasn't either but that bridge has been crossed thanks to his ability and curiosity of the galaxy protecting your mind.

He felt guilt initially when he realized he deeply invaded your privacy. Then, despair and immense sadness followed when he recalls back to your nightmare, your past. Edward had seen many horrors in his long life, he even committed some when he'd hunt those men. However when he witnessed what you went through, he couldn't help feel a spark of protectiveness. You were nice. He found you a joy to be around despite it not being long since you transferred. He doesn't want anything bad to happen to you.

Edward couldn't help but smile when he thought back to you and him outside the fire station. It was a peaceful moment. He couldn't help but linger on the sight of you in his jacket, pointing out the stars and constellations. It was silent other than your internal thoughts. And when he got to witness your galaxy so at peace? He also felt a sense of tranquility he longs for.

Edward quickly put those thoughts away and resumed his attention his book when he heard his adoptive siblings come in. Alice and Jasper pass without saying to him, which he was slightly thankful for. However, Emmett and Rosalie lingered by him.

"How can I help you both?" Edward sighs, snapping the book closed as he looks at both of them.

Rose crosses her arms. "You need to come back tomorrow."

"Why? Did something happen?"

"Yeah, Tiny happened." Emmett grinned and gestured to Rosalie. The blond sighed and let the memory replay of you standing up for her so Edward can see what happened today. He furrows his brows, setting his book down. He stands up from the couch and looks between the two.

"My guess is those two will probably retaliate against our friend one way or another." Rosalie says softly. Edward chooses not to point out how she said 'our friend.' "You spend the most time with them, they'll need you to stick around them the most."

Edward nods slowly. He recognizes Mark and Tony, and he knows they each have a class with him and you. He's heard the thoughts that spew from them both like garbage and he knows they aren't above getting back at someone.

"I'll come back tomorrow." He confirms. He wanted one more day to himself, but tomorrow is good as ever to face you again. He knows how you lost your voice and how you ended up living with your uncle and aunt now, but you don't know he knows. And he'll have to keep that in mind.

Although, Edward couldn't help but smile at the sound of your voice in Rosalie's memory. It was rough and hoarse, and it caused you pain, pain he doesn't want you feeling again... but it was nice hearing that voice that matches to the one in your head... when that space of yours is dropped.

---

You make your way to your locker first thing in the morning. You get yourself situated, grabbing the things you need for your classes before lunch. You set aside the folder where you kept your copies of notes for Edward down on the small shelf. You huff softly, throat still feeling sore from using your voice.

A familiar voice calling your name has you spinning around quickly, a smile instantly growing on your face. Edward approaches you with a small smile, looking the same as he did the last time you saw him.

"Glad to see you're feeling better." You grin, your mind flashing back to what Emmett signed to you in regards to Edward's health. You catch your friend's eyebrow twitch, a flash of annoyance on his face that he quickly recovered.

A Cullen quirk, you muse to yourself.

"Yeah. I'm doing a lot better now." He replies softly, standing a little closer to you than usual.

"I have something for you." You see his eyebrow quirk as you turn back to your locker. You pull out the black folder and hand him it. "Notes for the classes we share."

Edward stares down at the folder before chuckling. He looks up at you and gives you brilliant smile, one that makes your heart flutter for just a moment. "Thank you, I really appreciate it."

"Of course."

Suddenly, you feel hand on your back. Edward was standing much closer to you with an expression akin to a scowl as he stares off a little. He looks to you and smiles softly, though you can still see the tension on his face.

"We should get to the classroom. I'll probably have questions about what I missed." He says in a low voice. You nod, a little confused by his demeanor. You finish up with your locker and let him guide through the hallway, his cold hand still resting on the middle of your back.

You weren't aware of Tony's and Mark's presences until you both were walking by them to your first period classroom. You paid them no mind, keeping your focus ahead of you. Doing this, however, has you missing the deep and threatening glare from Edward towards the both of them.

As you both walked through the hallway, Edward felt that his non-existent blood boiling at the degrading, violent, and nasty thoughts those two were thinking. He knew they both weren't the best that Forks has to offer, their thoughts sometimes louder than others.

That protective urge he felt after witnessing your nightmare? It's working overtime now and he isn't completely sure why.

What Edward does know that he won't let them try anything towards you.

------

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#edward cullen #edward cullen x reader #edward cullen x you #edward cullen x y/n #edward cullen imagines #edward cullen imagine #twilight #twilight saga #twilight edward #twilight edward cullen #twilight x reader #twilight x you #twilight x y/n #twilight imagines #twilight imagine #silent cosmos

212 notes · View notes

seangelfish · 10 months ago

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Our favourite items

Ritsu Sakuma x Reader ♡ Tags: Fluff, established relationship, casual romance, really wholesome, INTRO IS REALLY LONG, SORRY!, she/her pronouns ♡ Word count: 2,215 ♡ Synopsis: Inspired by the Meowsketeers scout story in which this card is featured in. I've been trying to read the scout stories since I never read them, and I thought that this one would be cute to add the reader in! Please note that this fic does not stay true to the story, but it has taken bits from it. A/N: There needs to be more Ritsu x reader fics.

Drenched in sweat, Ritsu slowly woke up from his nap in the ES gardens. His mind was still filled with thoughts of what happened the other day when Tsukasa confronted and withdrew some of the new members of Knights.

Ritsu pitied them, but what was said was the mere truth. That's the way Knights operated, it was never a unit to have fun with as an idol. But seeing those tearful faces did take a toll on him.

At that moment, Ritsu felt something heavy weighing on him. It wasn't what happened that day, but something physical that he could feel near his stomach.

'Who is it? Am I being attacked? It's not those pranks Tsukipi set up, right?' he thought tiredly. Unless it's (Y/N)...? No... she said she'd be busy today–

Ritsu was getting annoyed. "Hold on. You don't disturb people when they're sleeping!" he groaned. "Now I'm in a bad mood... Don't mess with me– Huh?"

Eyes wide open, Ritsu found that on his stomach was a black cat.

"Ugh, so it was this guy!" he fumed. "Get off! You're heavy and it's too hot...!"

Yet the cat wouldn't budge. It stayed lying on Ritsu's stomach as if he were a pillow. Ritsu wasn't having any of it though, no one dares disturb his sleep even if they were a cat! Getting angrier by the second, he decided to fight it off him.

"Hey! Ow! Don't dig your claws in me!"

"That Suo, he's late!" exclaimed Leo. "What a troublesome guy! I came early today since he gets angry at me when I come late."

"Unbelievable! He's wasting my precious time!" Izumi chided. "This is so annoying. Did your wanderlust infect Kasa-kun?"

Leo laughed. "Eh? What, what? Wahaha, that's funny, Sena! I suppose it's fate that Knights' leader is to be cursed by wanderlust!"

Frantic footsteps could be heard as Tsukasa barged into the studio panting. He apologised, mentioning to his seniors that he got involved in a little incident with Ritsu. That was when Ritsu entered the room, still arguing with the black cat he encountered outside.

"I told you to let go of me, didn't I?! Why can't you understand me, you stupid cat?!" Ritsu growled. "Do my clothes smell like catnip or something...?"

"A stray cat got attached to Ritsu-senpai and it won't let go of him," stated Tsukasa.

"Unbelievable. This was why you were late?" said Izumi. "There's got to be some way to pull it off. Just grab it by the neck like how a parent cat carries a kitchen– Owah! This guy tried to scratch me! If you were human, I'd have you pay compensation!"

Arashi suggested that they all calm down and get started on the retrospective – the reason why they were holding a meeting in the first place. If they ignore the cat, perhaps it would let Ritsu go!

But as Arashi started playing the video of their live, Leo noticed something. In the video, Leo pointed out the front row seats where beside a fan's feet, a black cat was seen.

"This guy, it saw Ritsu at Knights' live and came to meet him!" said Leo excitedly.

"Hah...? No way! That sounds so unrealistic," Ritsu replied before turning to the cat which started showing him affection. "Owah, what? Don't start licking my cheek!"

"Given its reaction, it probably did come to meet Knights," said Tsukasa. "Isn't it just the cutest? It probably fell in love with Ritsu-senpai's brave figure at the live!"

"What?! Don't say things so nonchalantly!"

But the other members of Knights had agreed to let the cat do what it wanted despite Ritsu's comments on how much of a disaster this was.

The cat didn't let go of him even during the retrospective. It lay sound asleep on Ritsu's lap. Knights had come up with a name for the cat too, 'd'Artagnyan', their 'newest knight that was drawn in by Knights.'

Ritsu didn't like this idea at all. He didn't see any resemblance between him and the cat that his fellow members were constantly pointing out too. Though, he didn't want to just kick it out. He wanted it to leave on its own volition.

"It clings to you like how you cling onto (Y/N)," stated Arashi causing Ritsu to erupt into a steam of embarrassment. "Maybe it finds your scent comforting~? If so, it might be satisfied with something that has Ritsu-chan's scent on it..."

"Something with my scent?" Ritsu repeated. "Ah, I just came to an unpleasant conclusion..."

He was talking about his favourite blanket – the only thing in this studio that had his scent on it. But there was no way that Ritsu wanted to give this unlucky cat his favourite blanket!

"Ah, wait! Don't suddenly pounce for my blanket, you idiot cat!" huffed Ritsu as he tried to yank the blanket away. He was now on the floor fighting with the cat. "Give it back! I don't want such an unlucky cat to use my blanket! Guys, please help me out here!"

"Oi, oi. There's no need to get so worked up over something like this, right, Ritsu?" said Leo. "I know it's annoying, but it'll be dangerous if you get violent in here, no?"

"But I really like this blanket! I won't allow it to use it! Ah, don't scratch it–"

"Please calm down, Ritsu-senpai...!" sputtered Tsukasa.

But before Izumi could assert himself to scold Ritsu, you had rushed into the studio. Arashi had texted you about the situation before they started their retrospective, hoping that you'd come to solve the issue at hand. After all, you solved a lot of their problems before, it became customary to ask you for help.

"Ritsu, are you okay?" you asked worriedly, bending down. "Hey, what's wrong? You're not usually like this."

"(Y-Y/N)?!" Ritsu blurted, perplexed at your sudden appearance. "W-What are you doing here?"

You answered that even though you were busy with your own assignments today, you couldn't just ignore what was happening with Knights, with him.

"Is this what's bothering you?" You tried picking up the cat, but it immediately started hissing at you. "Ah! Okay, I'm not going to pick you up then...! Anyway, Arashi texted me all the details already. Why don't you just give up the blanket, Ritsu?"

"N-No!" he cried. "I can't!"

"I don't understand why you like that blanket so much," said Izumi. "I'll buy you a new one if that makes you happy–"

"That's not it! (Y/N) bought me this one!"

Everyone had gone silent over that fact.

"Then I'll buy you a new one," you offered.

"No!" Ritsu protested. "You got this for me when we were first years! I can't just let that go!"

Ritsu usually wasn't this worked up, so you knew he was upset about something other than his blanket. But you also knew that he was a very sentimental person too, so you couldn't just force him to give up something that he truly loved. It was sweet that he had kept this blanket up until now though. It showed how much he loved you.

"I have an idea," you suddenly said. You rummaged through your bag and pulled out a white sweater. "This also has Ritsu's scent on it."

"Wait," Ritsu began. "That's my sweater."

"Mhm, my favourite one too!" you giggled. "If we give the cat this, then it'll give up on the blanket!"

"B-But (Y/N), you love that sweater...!" he said.

"I do, but you love that blanket too, right? I'll give this up so you can have your blanket back!"

With how selfless and thoughtful you were being, Ritsu had finally cooled down.

"N-No, it's fine," he said sadly. "I'll let it keep the blanket, you keep the sweater, okay? I'm sorry, everyone, I went overboard. I didn't mean to hurt anyone."

"Ritsu..."

He picked up his blanket with the cat still attached to it and left the building quietly. The meeting with Knights had come to an end. You sighed, apologised and thanked Knights for putting up with your boyfriend before following after him.

Ritsu was situated on one of the tables at the ES gardens, his head laid on his arms as he watched the black cat sleep in his blanket.

"It's my fault that Knights ended up fighting again... If only this cat hadn't been there. No, I should've been calmer..." he murmured. "It would've been better if I had analysed the situation calmly like I usually do, and brought it to a positive conclusion..."

"Ritsu~" you called out.

With the sound of your voice, his eyes immediately gravitated towards you. He didn't lift his head though, he was too tired for that.

"(Y/N)..."

"Here," you said, pressing a cold can of soda to his cheek. He cried at the coldness but quickly covered his mouth from being too loud. He didn't want to wake up the cat despite how annoying it was today.

"Ah, thank you..." he said, taking the can from you. He laid it in front of him, not opening it. "(Y/N), I'm really sorry about earlier. You were busy, and Nacchan had to call you over to deal with something so small."

"Eh, it's okay~," you said. From behind, you wrapped your arms around his neck, holding him close to you. "I'm nearly finished with my assignments anyway. But Ritsu, are you really okay?"

Ritsu strained a smile, but he held your arm in a way to comfort himself. "I'm fine now. I'm going to sit here and reflect on my actions until this stupid cat wakes up. If I ignored the cat in the studio and it gets restless, it might be even more troublesome."

You laughed. "It's so cute when it's sleeping. It reminds me of you."

"Eeehhh? Why does everyone keep saying that?" he asked.

"Well, it's cute and you're cute! Also, it takes naps just like you, hehe~"

Ritsu sighed but laughed along. "Ah, you're wearing the sweater," he said, finally noticing the baggy look on you.

"Yep! I'm glad I didn't need to give it up in the end, but I do feel sad that you had to give your favourite blanket away," you said.

"It's fine. Maybe it'll let it go later..." he started. "Well, I hope it does anyway. I really do like that blanket..."

He chuckled, reminiscing the time you first got him the blanket. The two of you met just before entering Yumenosaki. You were Mao's friend initially, but he had introduced you to Ritsu during the time he had to repeat his first year. Ritsu had treated you coldly at first, but when you spotted him sleeping in the gardens, coming to know of his illness, you had decided to gift him a blanket for him to use.

It was a blanket you had bought at a shop in town, nothing special, but Ritsu thought the world of it. Even when he treated you so poorly, you were still so nice to him – to accommodate him in this way. He grew fond of the blanket, but he mostly grew fond of you.

After that day, he stuck to you just like the cat he was watching now.

"You know, I'm surprised it's still kept in good condition after all these years," you pointed out. "We're in our third year now... and it still looks brand new."

"I take good care of my things, (Y/N)~," he said. "And I'll be keeping that blanket for as long as I can."

You smiled and gave him a peck on the back of his head. "Anyway, aren't you going to tell me what got you so riled up? It can't just be because of the cat, right?"

"Ah, right..." he said. He opened the can that you gave him and began to drink the contents of it. "So, this is what happened..."

He explained everything to you, recalling what happened that day when they had to withdraw some of the new Knights members. He was honest with his feelings, how bad he felt when he saw those tearful faces, how bad he felt when he knew that those dreams were being crushed.

But after some reassurance from you, Ritsu felt a lot better. That's when Tsukasa showed up to check up on him too. A suggestion of finding foster parents for the cat was brought up which Ritsu agreed to.

By time, he grew fond of the cat albeit he still wanted it gone. But things had resolved themselves, and Ritsu was back to his calm, analytical self again.

You had come to say goodbye to the cat, d'Artagnyan, too. This time, it had let you hold it.

"Hehe, it really does remind me of you," you told Ritsu who immediately turned red. "Don't miss Ritsu too much, you hear me~? I hope you live a comfortable life."

Watching you be so gentle with the cat like that had Ritsu feeling some sort of way. He smiled gently to himself, appreciating that you were there with him, that you were there to console him and to listen to every word he had to say. There was nothing better in this world – even his favourite blanket – that would compare to you.

Intro page | Ensemble Stars masterlist | Rules

#ensemble stars x reader #enstars x reader #ensemble stars #enstars #x reader #fanfic #ritsu sakuma x reader #ritsu sakuma #ritsu sakuma x reader fluff #fluff #ritsu sakuma x y/n

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meetmyothersouls · 2 years ago

Note

Soft dim hal please?

I'd love to <3

Only Yours

Warnings: first person reader, smut, unprotected sex, cockwarming, breeding, oral, not proofread

I stayed seated as the Hal's dinner guests began leaving, still not knowing quite how this newfound royalty worked. Only married to The King now for a month, I stayed quiet, and I stayed in my place. An arranged marriage didn't allow much time for formalities.

The large oak doors slammed shut, and I heard the clicking of Hal's shoes as he walked back to the large refractory table. My hands in my lap, and my head faced down, I didn't realize that he'd taken his seat once again. He sat at the opposite end, at the head of the table and sighed, swirling red liquid in a goblet before bringing it to his lips.

"I just loathe gatherings like that, don't you?"

"Hmm? Sire?" I said, looking up.

I heard him swallow the liquid and sigh again. He gently placed his goblet down and looked at me. I found it hard to maintain eye contact, thought I knew how rude it would be to break it while he was addressing me. "Still so formal?" He asked quietly.

I feigned confidence, clearing my throat and sat up a bit straighter. I allowed myself the tiniest smile and said, "Well, you are the King."

"And that makes you the Queen, does it not?"

My eyes flicked back to his. The Queen. That was still something I was having trouble accepting. "Yes," I said, my eyes darting back to my lap. "I suppose it does."

"Hmmm," Hal muttered. He scooted his chair back, the wooden legs dragging noisily against the stone floor. I could hear him taking steps toward me and my heart went from a steady beat to a heavy pound. It wasn't that was afraid of him, he seemed nice enough. Letting me have my own room until I was comfortable enough to share his bed with him. He expanded his library since my arrival making sure I had plenty to read since he learned from my father that it was my favorite thing. He gave me sweet smiles in passing. Then there was the matter of his attractiveness. Hal was easy on the eyes, to say the least. Lost in thought, I didn't realize he was standing behind me until his hands lightly grazed my exposed shoulders. "Then when will you allow me to start treating you as one?"

I gasped lightly as his fingers traveled from my shoulders to my neck, not pressing or squeezing but exploring my soft skin. He trailed his fingers to my chin, where he lifted and tilted my head back, until it rested on the back of my chair and my eyes had no other choice but to look up and meet his. Even upside down he was elegant and beautiful. He smiled, a half-smile pulling up one corner of his lips. "Perhaps, right now?"

Unable to speak, I nodded. Hal brought is face closer to mine, his pace slow yet deliberate. Then his lips were against mine. Upside down, what should have been awkward was nothing but. Gracefully, and delicately his lips skated across mine, his tongue sliding out to lick my lips. My heart pounded so intensely I felt it in my ears. The room spun and when Hal pulled away from me, I felt myself sag in my seat. I lifted my head the room suddenly turning back to its normal position.

"Come now," Hal said gently, "I must have more of you."

He began walking, as I eased myself off of my chair, the room still spinning. I swayed gently, knocking my cup off the table. I swore under my breath. In quick strides, Hal was at my side again.

"No matter. If you can't walk, I shall carry you."

Either unable or unwilling to object, Hal lifted me into his arms. Our faces were close as he ascended a winding staircase, and even though he wasn't even remotely out of breath, I felt it silly for him to walk me up the entire set of stairs.

"Hal, I assure you I can walk."

"I'd prefer you to save your energy. For other, more exciting things."

"And what of your energy?"

"I have a surplus."

"Is that so?"

"It is, my dear, y/n."

We reached the top where Hal finally put me down.

"I am not a virgin," I blurted out, hoping it wouldn't be a mistake. "I hope that does not upset you."

Hal stared at me for a moment before shrugging, "only means that I do not have to teach you everything."

The inside of Hal's bedroom was shockingly simple. He had made sure mine was ornate and supplied, while his only contained a bed. One large, simple bed. He spun me around and began unlacing my corset, a tedious task that I hoped he would be able to accomplish quickly.

"Tomorrow, anything you want brought to my room I will have a servant bring. I do not wish to be separate from you any longer."

I nodded in agreement. How was it that I hadn't had anything more than a polite gesture from him in a month and now I felt like I was jumping out of my skin to be with him?

Layers and layers of clothing fell off of me until I stood in nothing but a white slip. My nipples hardened underneath the thin fabric as he spun me back around to face him. A thumb lifted my face up to meet his as he capture my lips with his. Hal kissed me softly, deeply and passionately as he backed me up to the bed. Once my back of my knees hit, I let myself fall back.

"Your clothes?"

"Shhh," Hal said nudging my legs apar with a knee. He dropped down to his and breathed deep between my legs. "Divine," he whispered. Wasting no time, his head was between my legs. He licked my folds earning instant moans from me. He sucked and slurped, pulling my clit into his mouth and rolling it between his lips, flicking it with his tongue. Then came his fingers. First one, then another, pumping in and out of me, curling each time to get me where I needed to be.

"Hal, ahh, " I hissed in pleasure. "Please!"

"Tell me what you want, y/n."

"I want to cum, please let me cum, my King."

He kept a steady pace with his fingers while he gave my clit one last flick with his tongue. I came hard, moaning and arching my back off of his bed.

"That's it, cum for me, my Queen. Good, good." He purred as my body jerked in pleasure. "There she is."

His clothes were off in an instant. I barely had time to recover before he sheathed his cock inside of me. Hal let out a low drawn-out groan as made himself at home. My legs splayed open for him, he began thrusting his hips softly.

"Whose cunt is this?" He growled.

My back arched at his filthy words. I whined, wanting all of him and more. He pinched one of my nipples hard between an index finger and a thumb. "Answer me," Hal demanded. His voice hard yet loving. "Whose cunt is this?"

"It is yours! Yours and only yours!"

"That's right," Hal praised, letting go of my nipple and replacing it with his lips. He suckled tenderly, licking the area he'd just abused, while his cock hit me deep with each thrust. He pulled my nipple with his lips until he let go with a soft pop. "I may not be your first, but believe me when I say I will most definitely be your last, y/n. And we will make love every night until your swollen with my child."

"Halll," I moaned, feeling that intense pressure building in my stomach again.

Hal's thrusts became fast and sloppy, his breathing became erratic and shaky. He buried his face into my neck, sucking on the skin, sending me over the edge. I moaned as I came, pressing my breasts into his chest. Seconds later, I felt him flood me with his warmth. His body jerking and shaking on top of mine as he emptied himself inside of me.

He laid on top of me, his softening cock still deep inside of my pussy as he kissed me. I smiled, an idea forming as I began rolling my hips underneath him.

Hal breathed out a shaky breath, smiling against me. His cock hardening with each movement I made underneath him. He wanted me full of his child. I'd make sure that happened sooner rather than later.

Tags: @dayafied @soulofendlessbook @fashphotolife @scentedkittenperfection @weasleytwinscumslut @timotheel0ver @mxciscastleintheair @marvelmaniac2000 @lovelyrocker @divine-1 @love-poems-only @starberry-cake @inlovewithphantasy @alexagirlie @misswestfall @softhecreator @livresjaunes @timmymyluv @inannamoon @harrys-thick-thighs @s-we-e-t-t-ea @timolaurence @its-schmackin-dude @justagirlwhoneedshelp @kteezy997 @sufferingstarlight @xoxoloverb @tropicalrozmajzl @iloveneilperry @syirnge @patronsaintofthetwinks @roseboysareprettier @onlyenoughiamweird

#timothee chalamet #timothée chalamet #writing #timothee chalamet x reader #timothee chalamet x you #timothee blurb #timothee chalamet imagine #timmy chalamet #smut #the king #king henry v x reader #the king 2019 #the king Timothee chalamet #anon #request

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vibingpyro · 1 year ago

Text

It's the small things.

Being invited into a multidimensional spider society to protect the welfare of many universes isn't quite how I expected my past few months to go.

But, I'm not complaining. Until now that is.

I'm currently walking around HQ on one of the many platforms dodging busy spider people of all types, having finished my idle task work of patrolling my own dimension as well as a few others has left me rather bored.

I give a small almost inaudible groan as I keep walking, glaring down briefly at the boot on my left foot, the main reason and to my irritation, cause for my lack of blood rushing and interesting assignments being assigned by Miguel.

'You crush your foot one time and suddenly, you're at the bottom of the interesting assignments food chain' I think, grumbling to myself.

Thankfully, some of the other spiders have been able to cheer me up at times that they aren't on their own missions, Gwen often coming by to offer a listening ear, while Pavitr often distracts me from my feelings with snacks he thinks I may like and Hobie...well, Hobie has been asking some odd questions.

I'm too busy in my grumbling to notice Hobie pushing himself off of the nearby bench upon spotting me coming into his view, until he's walking right alongside me, slowing his usual quick paced steps to compensate for my boot-amplified limp.

"You still narky then?" Hobie hums beside me, watching me out of the corner of his eye as he keeps slow pace beside me.

I resist the urge to roll my eyes, and give a small nod at his question.

"Yes, Hobie, I am still 'Narky'." I murmur, having grown accustomed to Hobies slang, but being asked if I'm grumpy does little to improve my mood.

Hobie gives a slight nod, before the air turns to silence.

That is until Hobie, as usual, breaks it.

"What's your favorite color again?" Hobie asks, looking forward as he keeps walking but there's an undeniable hint of interest in his tone, as if searching for confirmation.

My eyebrows furrow for a moment at the sudden question, at first, Hobie had asked me if I had any certain allergies a few days ago, which I suppose could be related to my boot but not necessarily but now...this was off topic entirely, yet purely conversational.

I give a small shrug of my shoulders, "I dunno, I like purples and blues." I say, eyeing Hobie out of the corner of my eye, a bit confused to where this conversation is going.

Hobie, surprisingly perks up at that answer, his normally lidded eyes sparkling and I can't help my heart flutter at the sight, especially when his lips quirk up into an slightly proud smile.

"knew it..." Hobie murmurs underneath his breath, digging into his vest pocket as he steps in front of me, walking backwards and facing me, evading walking spider people with ease.

It takes a brief moment of Hobie rummaging into his pocket of his vest, before dangling a shiny, beaded and clearly homemade, Hobie-flared bracelet.

My eyes widen as I reach my hand out to accept it gently taking it into my hand, examining the beads and shiny silver thread that holds it all together. Its...all of the things i'd told Hobie about, or things he had likely picked up along the way of knowing me.

Theres purple and blue shades of beads, interlocked with small silver beads in between each in a intertwined pattern, and the smile just widens on my lips at the thoughtful gesture.

"Took a bit to find all the rights gems n' such." Hobie says. "D'ya like it?" He asks, placing his hands back into his vest pockets as he watches my reaction with a curious face.

I instantly nod, placing the bracelet on my wrist and to my surprise it fits perfectly, but I only smile wider. "Hobie, this is so sweet of you." I praise, looking back up at him.

One of Hobies hand moves out of his vest pocket to wave, 'a get out of here' gesture but the pleased smile on his lips does little to hide how he truly feels about the praise.

Hobie moves back swiftly to my side instead of walking backwards in front of me, nudging my shoulder softly with his elbow.

"Still narky?" He teases, and I can't help but laugh a bit at that, shaking my head as I look down at the bracelet, the beads making a soft clack with each step I take.

"Nah, not anymore." I reply.

#hobie x reader #hobie brown x reader #across the spiderverse #hobart brown

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sophswritingthings · 1 year ago

Note

To the anon with the ask who made Mizu a motorcyclist… PLEASE INDULGE MORE 😍😍😍😍

pairing: modern au!motorcyclist!mizu x fem!reader

warning(s): light swearing

a/n: she's so HOT I will gladly write more!!!

word count: 470 words / 2,579 characters

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

you were walking past a shop. a motorcycle shop and repair, consequently.

that's when a certain pair of mysterious blue eyes caught your eye.

the woman who had absolutely barreled you over, last time. gorgeous blue eyes and dark hair, and a red and black motorcycle that was so distinctive you could notice it anywhere.

and she looked to have noticed you, too.

"its you again," she says with that raspy voice, flashing you a small smile. she's covered in ash and what seems to be oil, and she had glasses sat on her head.

"um.. yes, it is," you chuckle, blushing a little.

"how are you doing?" is the first question she asks, turning her attention slightly back to the motorcycle at hand.

"im okay," you murmur, walking closer to her. whatever she was doing was quite interesting, "everything's healed up properly."

"well--good," she slides under the motorcycle without a word.

you watch with interest, "um.. what are you doing?"

"hit something a little too hard. probably or rock, or some shit," she hissed. you could see that her legs were a bit torn up, under her torn jeans.

".. you okay, then?" you whisper.

you sort of wanted to return her earlier favor.

"I'll be fine, probably just a couple scars." she responded, rather calmly for someone who could have easily died in some accident.

"I could.. clean you up. return your favor," you place down your bag, as she slides out from under the bike.

under her soot covered face, you can see the faintest hint of blush.

".. if you'd like, I suppose it isn't a problem," she looks hesitant to tell you where the bandages were. to let you touch her.

"I won't hurt you, I promise." you chuckle, going to where she has directed you. "I'll be gentle."

she scoffs, "its--its not--" she stammers, "I know that."

you bend down to the floor, first wiping her face and arms of all soot and ash. you see the cuts and scars along her arms, frowning a little. how often did she get injured?

you ignore it, though, not wanting to press her with questions. you just clean her wounds, wrapping bandages over them.

"hey, did you--" she pauses, watching your head snap up to look her in those blue eyes. "--maybe.. wanna go and get coffee? lunch, even, I--"

you cut her off, smiling, "I'd like to."

her eyes widen, "wait, I--really?" she seems surprised that you would even consider it.

you chuckle, "yeah.. is that so weird?"

"no, it isn't," she sighs. "I haven't been on a date in awhile, so im sorry if im shit at this."

you blush a little, giggling, "I probably am shitty at it, too, so don't worry too much."

she laughs, "good. than we can be shit at it, together."

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

#mizu x you #mizu blue eye samurai #mizu x reader #mizu #blue eyed samurai #fic #fanfic #fanfiction #ask #asked and answered #request #fic request #x reader

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fearyandear · 2 years ago

Text

Not Who You’re Supposed To Be (Yandere! Revolutionary Servant POV x Captured Princess Y/N)

They took the nobles. Every last one. Most had tried desperately to escape. To blend in with the commoners, or to off themselves with dignity. Some slipped through, but in three days' time, the most important figures had been rounded up like hogs.

Ready to be slaughtered.

Among the first was the 12th princess. The attackers that burst to her room noted how calm she appeared, sitting on her chair with her favorite wine in hand. She'd given them a smile and told them they did a good job.

She was sent to the dungeons with the rest of her family.

Saber knew he shouldn't face her. What was done was done. She had served her purpose as his master, and now, he was free from her command. He was free.

And yet, he grimaced every time he passed the heavily guarded chambers to the underground. They beckoned him.

Only a day was left until the executions. They would be public and humiliating. The best show the country would ever get. And she would be a part of it.

He knew going down would be a mistake. He knew, as much as he denied it, that he'd regret it. That seeing her look at him after his betrayal... would be able to break him.

And still, that night, he ventured.

He used the guards' blindspots. This was a... private affair. He didn't want to explain this to the others. The dungeons creaked and wails prevailed. Heavy doors kept him from seeing their faces. But he had already memorized everyone's place, so he skipped to the end of a row. When he reached her cell, he was surprised by its stillness. Knowing her, she would have been one of the wailers. Her pampered lifestyle meant she'd get aches from the floor of her cell.

A thought targeted him, fast and quick.

What if she's sick? Already dead?

He fumbled with the lock, his initial fear was replaced with the anxiety to check. A swing of the door later, and his terror vanished.

She was standing, facing the outside on the small barred gutter with her head resting in her arms. She hummed as the door closed.

"Is that my little shadow?" She turned to look at him. She had expected him.

Knowing this made him feel conflicted.

Why wasn't she crying? Why did she look... content?

She wasn't being herself.

"You did it." She grinned. "You succeeded. I'm so proud of you!"

She came at him fast. He braced himself. Punches. Thrashing. A slap. Something would make contact, surely this would be her petty litte revenge but-

No.

An embrace.

It felt the same as others she had given him.

She hugged him completely, wholeheartedly nestled into his chest.

And she repeated herself.

"I'm so proud!"

He hated this outcome.

He pushed her. She stumbled but didn't fall.

"You... knew?"

"Of course!"

"How??"

She laughed. It was genuine and hearty, with a snort at the end.

"Saber... I've always known."

What the hell was she talking about.

"I... need you to explain."

She nodded. An explanation of everything was owed. A long one. She theatrically sat in the only bench available, and smoothed her dress.

"I am not a good person, Saber. You of all people know well my wickedness." She held a cheek with a hand. "I knew of the people suffering. I knew that I had the power to stop some of it. But... well, I'm lazy, Saber. I'm lazy and... It was easier not to. To believe that as the least favorite, I couldn't do a thing.... So I'd planned on living life quietly, sending prayers for the poor.

But then they gave me you."

She gazed at him. Met his eyes. They were warm and deep and welcoming. The same eyes as the day he had met her.

"You hated me. You hated everything about us, of course, but serving me especially... you directed it towards this foolish, stubborn princess. And you know what? I found you so admirable for that! You were a person who would change the world! And you'd make it so much better for everyone! So strong, so committed, so intelligent! Oh Saber! You're wonderful!"

Her grin brought him back to annoyance. There was an expression he finally recognized. The one he always felt was patronizing... but... perhaps it had never been. Her words...

Wait-

"So you knew about my plan to betray you? Did you recognize then... my disguise- those nights!"

His cheeks burned. The princess was hysterical.

"Saaabeeer, I knew, I knew! And I liked it. I always loved your touch, Saber. I was so happy too. You saved me from the anxiety of parties and people that I hate... I treasured those moments filled with passion..."

Both cheeks were in her hands now. Saber felt the need to explain himself.

"Those weren't supposed to happen... I had lost myself in the alcohol! I wouldn't have-"

"Oh. I know Saber. It's okay!" Her reassurance quieted him. "Your spite never went away. I'd never delude myself into thinking otherwise! You had a goal. It was just... the wine."

There was a pause. He couldn't look her in the eye.

The alcohol. He'd never drunk any, and... if she had known it was him, she may have been sober enough to know that too. But she was going along for him. He felt ashamed.

"I'm just a dumb princess."

He looked back up.

"I knew that's all I would be. But if I could help you... I thought, at least that'd be good for you. So, I played my part. I never paid attention in my classes. I let you do my homework for me. I made you memorize the secret passageways for dumb errands.... I blabbed about all the gossip I could gather at those stupid parties. And everything fell into place."

She shook a bit. He almost took a step towards her. He was getting distracted. Pieces were falling into place...

"You never once disappointed me. Or the people. You're a hero, Saber! You'll be legendary."

She got back up. He took a better look at her now. Her unkept hair. Her dress had torn and become dirty from sweeping the floor. Her eyes showed her lack of sleep, and the moon made her skin deathly.

But she was still the girl chained to him. She was still the girl with eyes that were glued to him, never out of malice but always out of love.

She had loved him.

She still loved him.

"Princess..."

"When will I be killed?"

His blood ran cold. Reality came flooding back..

"I heard the guards talking about an execution. But I never got the date... and it's been..." She looked to the wall. Three little notches had been made.

"Three days. When will the day be? How much longer will I have to stay here?"

Saber was back to feeling lost.

"I... I don't know."

He lied.

It would be tomorrow.

The princess crossed her arms. She blew out a breath like she always does when she's annoyed.

"Well, I hope it's soon. And I hope you can be the one to do it."

"Me?"

His voice almost cracked. Now she looked stunned.

"Of course you, you jerk! Don't tell me you weren't planning on doing me in yourself! With those eyes? With that built up grudge? I won't have it any other way! It has to be you!"

She got right up to his face. The usually warm eyes were cold. This was a demand. He hated when she did this.

But his usual defiance couldn't be mustered now for some reason...

He couldn't find any bite at all.

He felt his shoulders slump.

Killing her...

"Why are you so okay with this? Why did you let this happen?"

The flame of anger was welling up inside again.

"You could have stopped me. You could have- helped me! If I had known-"

She laughed again. "What do you mean? You hated me! You still hate me! Telling you I'm helping you would've only made you despise me more. Or it'd make you seem unreliable to the others on your side. We nobles are the enemy. Why would they trust in me?"

She shrugged.

"Theres no use in thinking about what could have been. What's done is done."

What's done is done.

"My fate would have been the same. For a better tomorrow with no future royal blood, we will all need to be killed."

No mercy was their rule.

Saber recalled the plan. The guillotine. The space made for the heads and bodies, each to be separated. And to be paraded around.

He couldn't help himself from reaching for her. Softly, he touched her neck.

"So, a beheading?" She had guessed.

It dawned on him how clever she actually was.

He had never noticed.

"Well," Her hand brushed over his. She held it firmly there and was back to meeting his eyes. "I'm glad you came to visit. And I hope you're getting everything you ever wanted."

How can she say such things without an ounce of malice?

He left her cell with her words in his heart. What is it that he wants? The moon was still high. The execution would be in the morning. Her place in line would be near the middle, with the lesser nobles.

She'd be surrounded by the people that mocked her. To die with those she hated.

The hand that touched her neck burned.

He could kill her now.

Surely that'd be preferable?

He imagined it. Squeezing her neck. Watching her eyes bulge. No longer would they smile.

He wanted to cut off his hand.

He can't.

He needed another plan.

He made his way to the servant quarters.

Tonight, he would be a villain.

(Doodles of this story found here!)

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ladystarksneedle · 10 months ago

Text

A fall from grace

Chapter 2

A/N: A little Sunday treat💖

Word count: 9.6k

Prev<

Masterlist

The thing about King's landing was that it was far different than what she'd come to know in the days prior to her arrival and she found the contrast in perception quite astounding.

She was greeted by the Queen and the Hand as soon as she stepped foot in the courtyard shadowed by the prince standing close by.

“What a beauty you've grown up to be, just like your mother” she said admiring her. “And what a pretty dress. One of her designs I presume?”

“Thank you, your grace, it is. Everyone says I'm more like father though” she said prompting a snort in the background unsure of whether it came from her grandfather or her newly introduced royal cousin.

“Let me look at you child” he spoke with a low baritone, suddenly demanding her attention. His face had hardened over the years from what she could remember of it, with wisdom and the trials of being the Hand she supposed, yet he had a welcoming smile in place when she turned to face him.

“Much like Josephine I'd say” he said, appraising her. “Which is good. You shall need it in the days to come”

“Come let us continue in my chambers. You must be tired. Where is your father?” the Queen continued.

“He said he'd arrive on horseback your grace, with Ser Cristian”

“Ser Criston”

“Yes, my apologies”

“Not to worry” she replied, taking her by the arm. “He's been called worse”

She didn't know when the prince disappeared, seemingly satisfied that she'd been brought safely to the castle which was eerily similar to her own home, with its enormous staircases and figurines of the seven at every corner.

“It hardly feels like I've left home”

“I am happy to hear that” the Queen replied, satisfied as they reached a giant door of oak.

The interior of the Queen's chambers were just as welcoming. She could smell the incense burning in the corner, something akin to jasmine and camphor as she was ushered indoors. Tapestries of the seven adorned the walls with star shaped candle holders at every corner, feeling even more religious than the altars of some of the septs back home, so much so that she had to wonder how the Queen survived each day without being stifled by it all.

“Helaena’s tending to Aegon at present and will be joining us shortly”

Aegon, she recalled, was the Queen's first born son. His name should have given it away in the first place but she had always been poor at history and the Targaryens were only as interesting to her when they were accompanied by the embodiment of their sigils.

“You needn't worry too much about your presentation” the Queen spoke after a pause when they had been served a few confectionaries and tea at the little teak table in the center. “Both the Hand and I shall see to all the arrangements”

“What about father?”

“Everything shall happen with Gwayne's approval, of course” she assured her. “Though it might be a bit difficult to circumvent your grandfather's influence. Nevertheless we shall try our very best to secure you a good match”

“I am very grateful for your hospitality, your grace,” she found herself replying back.

“You are very well spoken” she smiled tersely as she continued drinking before being interrupted by a bang at the door.

“I tried to stop him your grace” the dornish knight apologized with a tense bow as he followed her father in.

“Alicent” her father boomed rushing to hug the Queen. “You look just as young as ever. What is your secret, stealing your vitality from the King perhaps?” he mused.

“Gwayne! You mustn't say such things”

“Why? Who shall tell on me? This one right here is far too jovial to not enjoy my musings and that one” he said pointing to Ser Criston “Seems devoted enough to endure a bit of jesting. Lighten up sister!”

“What did father say?” she heard her sigh as she pinched the bridge of her nose.

“Just his usual admittance of dissatisfaction. Nothing out of the ordinary” he spoke plopping himself down on the settee nearby. “Eating already? I thought you wanted to remain thin” he questioned looking right at her.

“A little bit would do her no harm, stop jesting” the Queen tutted, making her father raise his hands in mock surrender.

“You may leave us Ser Criston. I'll join you in a while for our prayers” she spoke dismissing the knight.

She saw her father look at her with raised brows before masking his suspicion with an easy smile. “So? Where are the rest of your children”

“Helaena shall be joining us soon and Aegon is indisposed”

“Indisposed?”

“Yes he's been rather sick since morning” she said, avoiding his gaze.

“Is it the kind that I can cure?”

“He needs none of that Gwayne”

“Which tells me exactly how miserably you know how to handle things around here” he said, rising abruptly to his feet. “You ladies have fun, I'm about to go find that nephew of mine”

“He hasn't changed at all has he?” the Queen spoke as they resumed their stance once again.

Princess Helaena did not join them for tea in the end, citing ill health as an excuse after which she herself asked to be shown to her quarters. The thought bothered her as she settled in, till she was invited to dine with them all for supper. A stranger in a sea of familiar green, perhaps this is what it meant to be a royal.

-x-

Dinner was a sordid affair. Despite the relatively warm reception they received cordiality outshone the familial warmth she was somehow expecting to find. She arrived promptly at the designated hour to find Prince Aemond already seated at the head of the table with the Queen ordering her own modifications to the spread ahead. He acknowledged her with a nod without attempting to engage in any more talk than was necessary and she found the Queen to be far too preoccupied to be forthcoming.

The only memorable thing about the occasion happened to be her introduction to Princess Helaena and Prince Aegon. The former arrived first, in a flurry of hurried steps and golden skirts leaning to kiss her mother on the cheek before seating herself near her.

“Dearest this is Lady Melissa, your cousin” the Queen had to intervene once she realized Helaena wouldn't be the one to make the first move.

“Delighted to meet you princess” she offered instead, turning towards her with a smile.

“You look quite like mother” was all she said before returning to examine the little eccentricity in her palms and was soon followed by a rather shabby entrance.

Prince Aegon stumbled in moments later with a few curses on his tongue, soon morphing into apologies upon noticing his mother's glare. No introduction was thought needed for him, who looked at her above the rim of his chalice with raised brows before turning to jest with his brother instead. Prince Aemond however, remained as stoic as he was since the night began.

Her father and grandfather were the last to arrive, walking in with as much solemnity she thought the former could muster.

Dinner began and ended with grace before she was escorted back to her own chambers with a small gift.

“This is for you Melissa” the Hand spoke, taking her to the side to hand her a little pouch. “I thought my granddaughter deserved a little token of appreciation”

“Thank you grandfather” she replied, examining the necklace, a golden star nestled snugly within a silver tower. “I shall cherish it dearly” she said, eliciting a warm smile in turn.

“He never gave me anything,” her father huffed petulantly as they made their way back.

“Perhaps you are not as beautiful” she responded cheekily.

“King's landing has already turned you vain daughter,” he teased back.

“Where did you go all evening?” she asked, opening the door to one of her cupboards as she began preparing for the night.

“A meeting with the small council. Quite useless if you ask me. All they do is sit there and drink the whole day”

She fought the urge to laugh, stifling her smile as she picked out an evening dress for herself before her maid arrived.

“Not that I'm thoroughly complaining but they're all so old and such dreadful company”

“What did they discuss?” she asked circumventing his tirade on the lack of people who knew how to live.

“Ah. You wouldn't like it” he said, shaking his head.

“What is it about?”

“Driftmark”

“Any new developments?” she asked pacing around the room as he stared into the distance.

“I am to leave at once to handle certain misdemeanors which is what they're calling them”

“You?”

“Yes, what’s wrong with that?”

“We're not really representatives of the crown”

“Well I'm supposed to be representing the Hand which by extension amounts to the same”

“But if you are to leave then who'll be responsible for what they plan for me?” she asked incredulously, clutching the fabric tightly in her hands.

“Worry not sweetling. There isn't much to be done here anyway. Have you spotted a decent looking man in the vicinity that you'd want to wed? The keep is crawling with old crones. We shall go over whatever we can find once I'm back”

“And how long will that take?”

“A fortnight?” he said doubtfully.

“What am I to do for a fortnight, father?”

“Well you have Helaena. You could spend time with her and the children. She has twins doesn’t she?”

The last thing she remembered before being dressed for bed was the thrumming of dissatisfaction in her veins. King's landing was really turning out to be what Daeron had said it was.

-x-

Her first night in the capital was almost peaceful till around the hour of the nightingale, when she was woken up abruptly by her new maid.

“A message for you my lady”

“Who is it from?” she asked groggily only to be met with silence.

Join us for breakfast

-A

“It's barely dawn,” she whined, rubbing her eyes.

“They prefer to dine early” was all she said as she helped her dress for the day.

The young royals she learnt, prefer to dine early on odd days. Awake at the crack of dawn they would take their morning meal in a secluded balcony over the King’s gardens. She managed to find the site with a bit of help, walking around in circles till she found a maid to help her with the directions she needed and upon arriving she noticed the three of them already seated.

“Ah she's here” Prince Aegon yawned crankily “Let us begin already”

Seated at the head of the table was Prince Aemond flanked on either side by his siblings. Princess Helaena gave her a soft smile in greeting as she sat down opposite them all.

“Apologies for being late. I couldn't find the place.”

“That is alright” she replied. “It takes a while to get used to”

There was no saying grace as they dived into their meal, each eating in silence for a while before Prince Aemond spoke again.

“You must be wondering why we summoned you at such an early hour” he said just as she was finishing. “It is customary that we get to know you ourselves before you're introduced to court”

“What would you like to know?” she asked, putting her fork down.

“Is everyone in Oldtown so proper?” asked Aegon, frowning at her.

“You cannot ask people why they're proper Aegon” Helaena prompted back in return.

“Why not? Is it because you're religious?” he inquired, resting his elbows inquisitively on the table.

“Not really,” she shrugged.

“If you're from Oldtown then why aren't you religious?”

“You cannot ask people why they aren't religious Aegon, not when you have to be dragged unconscious from the sept” Helaena said, earning a disgruntled pout in return.

“What is the purpose of your visit, my lady?” Aemond asked, breaking their dispute.

“I came with my father to find a husband,” she said, thinking it quite apparent already.

“So you wish to be married?” Aegon interrupted.

“You should be, it's a wonder your parents have waited for so long” followed Helaena.

“Is there someone you have in mind? Is there someone who's already been arranged for you to wed” Aegon questioned eagerly.

“Any arrangements made must be informed to all members of the crown” Aemond said, shushing them all as they waited for her response.

“Nothing has been decided yet, they're still looking for a suitable match”

“Very well then” Aemond said flexing his fingers around a butter knife close by “Have you been assigned as one of Helaena's ladies in the meantime?”

“You must know I have no need for them. They're a terrible bore. Not that you might be, it's just how things are” she continued with an indifferent shrug.

“Do not mind her. She rarely has anything in common with anyone” Aegon said petulantly.

“The purpose of today's meal” Aemond continued glaring at his siblings “Is also to let you know how we go about things here. This is not Oldtown as you know and there are rules that we all abide by” he finished earning a scoff from Aegon. “That we all agree with” he continued as all of them looked at each other.

“I shall try my best to follow,” she said.

“Good now let's get on with it, I've had quite the night and this is turning out to be a bore” Aegon said yawning “Every fifth day we meet at dawn to break our fast here, not before the hour of the nightingale nor after the sun begins to rise. If you're late you're to be shunned for the rest of the moon, no exceptions.”

“Some shall be made in case of infirmity which need to be informed prior to our meeting and shall be duly considered” Aemond added.

“If you have certain concerns of the moon that you are uncomfortable with, you could write to me,” Helaena continued. “I'll have them conveyed”

“Thank you” she responded shyly, glad that there was another who she could somewhat confide in.

“Then there is the matter of our attire” Aemond spoke again “On the third day of every moon, we wear green”

She found herself looking at her own dress then, olive and gold, embroidered with tiny stars around the neckline and sleeves that appeared to shimmer in the sun.

“Failure to do so shall again result in being shunned for the rest of the moon” he continued.

“Which is not a problem for me,” Aegon said happily chugging away at his drink. It was the fourth he'd consumed since she'd arrived and she wondered how many more he could take before becoming sick.

“Of course it isn't,” Helaena laughed. She found Aemond smirking at his sister's words before his eye found hers with seriousness again.

“And the most important of all, you shall not engage in rumor mongering with anyone outside this gathering” Aemond concluded gazing at her with sharpness.

“I'm not of the nature to gossip”

“How sad,” Aegon exclaimed. “Either way you shall share whatever you hear with us over the days to come, in full detail might I add. I love a good tale”

“Three rules?” she asked, looking straight at Aemond.

“For now” he replied unflinchingly. “You may approach us further for clarification if required”

“That will not be necessary,” she said, smiling at him.

“Well then I'm off” Aegon spoke, rising from his seat abruptly.

“You promised you'd visit the children” Helaena said looking at him, disappointed.

“At this ungodly hour?” he exclaimed.

“Mother shall be up for her prayers”

“Ughh”

“Will any of you be joining her?” she interrupted them.

“Told you she's religious,” Aegon smirked. “She's probably hiding a lot more behind that pretty face,” he continued wiggling his eyebrows at her.

“I shall join you” Aemond said, coming to stand in between his brother and her.

“Don't you have to train little brother?” Aegon asked only to be quietened with a glare.

“Come quick Aegon or I'll tell mother you were out all night again” Helaena huffed, dragging him along with her before he could protest any more.

She found herself looking at them leave, bickering amongst themselves before she heard a smooth voice interrupt her “Come, the Queen must not be kept waiting.”

-x-

The way to the castle sept was quite close to the gardens and inspite of the short distance Prince Aemond ended up disclosing more than what he had at breakfast.

“There are a few things that I wish for you to keep between us” he said as he slowed down to match her stride.

“Of course your grace” she replied, much more aware of his stature now that they were alone. She felt that she had to be more on guard around him, more so as compared to the rest, given how poised he was. Perhaps that wasn't the only reason for her attentiveness. Either way she simply chose not to focus on his proximity as he leaned towards her to speak.

“A few more rules that I wish to go over with you” he spoke regarding her with an intensity to which she found herself nodding.

“You are not to fraternize with the enemy, at all costs, which means avoiding anyone who dresses in black and wears the sigil of the princess”

“I thought that was common to your house?”

“No, she wears the symbol of the three headed dragon with a hint of gray. You'd see a similar hue in the clothing of her supporters. Only if you pay close attention”

“I shall be mindful of it then”

“They may choose to engage you,” he continued as they neared the gate of the sept “as they do Aegon, who foolishly chooses to do so and partake in depravities of his own . That is not to be expected from a lady such as yourself”

“I understand your grace,” she said solemnly.

He gave her a crisp nod before acknowledging his mother at the altar and stepping back to let her pass.

“Won't you join us?’ she inquired turning around to face him.

“Aemond has his own hour of prayer Melissa” she heard the Queen remark as she reached up to kiss him on the cheek. “Come let us begin together”

It was quite ominous then, that as she lit her candle at the altar of the Maiden, the flame blew away at once with a gust, sharp as the shudder that passed through her upon the remembrance of his last rule whispered solemnly in her ear “Stay away from temptation my lady, in all forms.”

-x-

Queen Alicent Hightower spent an ungodly amount of time in prayer, extending up to the hour of the gods, which was when the rest of the keep clustered around the stone statues of its sept. She found her knees aching by the time she stood up, wobbling with a restrained smile as she followed the lady down the halls, shadowed by her sworn protector at a safe distance.

“I have decided to let you get acquainted with some of Helaena's ladies. She claims she doesn't need them but it is good to know a few maidens your age. It'll help you adjust better to life here” she said smiling as she reached a small hall at the foot of one of the winding staircases.

“All of them assemble here during the morn, to embroider and discuss whatever they can. They shall make enough room for you” she said as they were let in by two guards who bowed before them and nodded to the man behind.

It was a much smaller room than what she had expected with four ladies seated equidistant, in armchairs surrounded by a bevy of mace stools, containing threads of every shade and hue that she could conjure up. All of them stood to curtsey as the Queen entered regarding her with a mix of curiosity and distaste as she was introduced.

“I shall leave you to it then” the Queen spoke as she left her with a comforting touch to face the uncertain ahead.

The first to speak was a lady in blue, with intricate black braids woven into her hair.

“I hear you arrived yesterday. How have you been settling in?”

“As expected,” she said, taking a seat nearby.

“And you've already met the iōrves” spoke a woman in red with an almost perfect pronunciation of the strange word.

“Who?”

“As if she knows what that is, Tyshara” the lady in blue huffed. “It's just a name they came up with for the royals”

“The three iōrves” chirped another blonde in front of her. “Suits them well. I'm Lynette Beesbury” she continued with a smile.

“I’m Lady Cassandra of House Baratheon” the lady in blue spoke haughtily. “Future bride to House Targaryen”

“It isn't confirmed Cassandra” another lady huffed. She was taller than the rest with a hooked nose and a stern smile, seated to the extreme left in a heap of brown skirts.

“What would you know Jessika?” she snapped back “Or is your father's position finally amounting to something”

“More than pining after a man who hardly pays you any heed” Lady Jessica scoffed. “I'm Lady Jessika Wylde daughter of Lord Jasper Wylde, the master of laws” she spoke, turning her face to regard her.

“Pleased to meet you” she responded, trying to ascertain the demeanor of each of the women in front of her. “What does jorves mean?” she asked after a pause.

“Iōrves” spoke Lady Tyshara again “Or the ones who are cold”

“Is that High Valyrian?”

“Their very own tongue” she smirked, continuing her sewing. “I'm Lady Tyshara Lannister, niece to Lord Tyland Lannister, the master of coin here”

“You think they're cold?”

“And you don't?” Cassandra questioned. “My, you must have made quite the impression. Tell me how you find my betrothed.”

“It's Prince Aemond she speaks of,” Lynette chirped.

“I haven't spoken to him much,” she replied, shrugging casually.

“And that is almost always enough,” Tyshara scoffed.

“You don't like him?” she questioned turning to face her.

“I like him enough to know when to keep my mouth shut” she spat, as she continued pulling at the threads in her lap.

“You must be wondering why we're questioning you so much,” Cassandra said after a stretch of uncomfortable silence. “We hadn't been told of your arrival and it's hard to accommodate another lady before knowing her in truth”

“Oh I'm not to serve as a lady in waiting. I'm here with my father”

“We know” muttered Jessika before turning back to her own task.

“Nevertheless” Cassandra continued. “Since the Queen has instructed you to be under our care it's best we inform you of your role, as allies of course”

She found herself nodding with the woman's manners appearing to be quite similar to the monologue she'd heard in the morning yet far less accommodating despite the severity with which it was delivered.

“To start with, you must know the nature of your relatives” she spoke, enunciating the word with distaste. “You mustn't be aware of their tastes since you've been away at Oldtown”

“I heard Prince Daeron was to join you” Lynette chirped again.

“He suffered an injury while flying and would be joining us in a fortnight, at the earliest” she informed them.

“Be quiet while I finish Lynette, then you may go back to your questions” Cassandra huffed. “Now let's start with the princess. She rarely ever summons us. We're as free here as actual ladies of our own houses rather than in service to the crown, which we duly abide by extension of course” she began “The princess likes to keep to herself yet blurts out the most perplexing things when in company. You needn't be startled by it just pretend you never heard what she spoke of and continue on as before”

“Prince Aegon” Jessika continued “Is to be avoided at all costs. As charming as he can be, he's equally handsy and you'd do best to remember that for the safety of your reputation, not that mine has ever been called into question but our maids talk and that is enough to keep a virtuous lady away”

“And as for Prince Aemond” Lynette sighed “How shall we begin to describe him?”

“Prince Aemond is flawless,” Cassandra interrupted her in an instant.

“I've heard he has four maids tending to his hair each morn” Jessika said.

“I've heard he has every book in the library memorized, with knowledge to make even the most learned of maesters quiver,” Tyshara continued.

“He trains meticulously at dawn and has bested some of the finest knights of the realm, Ser Criston included” Cassandra boasted with glee. “And yes his favorite thing to do is read,”

“His hair is so lustrous” Lynette swooned “One time I was unfortunate enough to stumble along his way and it whipped me in the face” she said, earning a shocked expression from them all. “It was wonderful” she continued with glee diverting their attention again.

“That's why Cassandra wears her hair in braids,” Tyshara giggled.

“Oh hush”

“She saw him wear his hair in a braid, somewhat like a fishtail to train one morn and hasn't stopped wearing her hair like that since” Tyshara smirked with glee. “He wears his hair loose now, I wonder how you'd accomplish something akin to that Cassandra.”

“It would be quite a scandal” Jessika chuckled.

“Jest all you want, I for one believe he loves my hair”

“It is a wonder though, with beauty to speak of like his own” Jessika muttered “You must think of another way if you wish to win him over” “I've heard he has a thousand pieces of leather for his closet, eye patches included”

“I've seen his sapphire,” Lynette chirped again.

“You have not,” Cassandra protested with indignation.

“When he dashed into me” she whined “I caught a glimpse of it. It was the most beautiful thing I ever saw” she sighed dreamily.

“I think it's rather hideous, the scar I mean. It is good that he keeps it covered” Tyshara said. “And I doubt you really saw the stone Lynette, clumsy as you are. You probably hit your head too hard. It is known that he's very secretive with regards to his injury”

“I shall make him show it to me someday” Cassandra spoke puffing up her chest, like the namesake of her house “And you shall all be the first to know”

“Seven blessings to you then, I just hope you don't faint” Jessika laughed. “You're quite a lightweight for a Baratheon” she said, earning a fit of giggles all around the room.

The rest of their morning passed in speculation over the latest scandals at court along with a few more instructions that were spoken over giggles and protests alike. Her mind however was stuck on the little jewel that was lodged in the face of a man who the whole keep seemed to covet.

-x-

Her father, unlike what he’d told her, did not leave at once. Only after he’d supposedly sampled almost every ale house the city had to offer and spent a few days with a morbid case of belly cramps did he set out to accomplish the task assigned to him.

“Must you really leave?” she asked him as the servants around them bustled to pack a small trunk full of scrolls and strewn clothes, half smelly and soiled.

“Your grandfather is quite close to having a fit dearest, I’m afraid I must”

“I shall accompany you to the docks”

“Don’t you have something better to do this morn?”

“Tyshara wishes to bid farewell to Lord Lannister too”

Over the course of the past few days, while her father emptied his gut, she had accomplished the task of getting to know her allies at court. Cassandra Baratheon was vain and bold, eager to take offense and hold a grudge till she found another stray of gray on her head. The day after would be spent in lamentation and covering up her “deficiencies” as she so liked to call them lest her betrothed were to notice.

Lynette Beesbury was naive, sweet as honey that the bees of her house were drawn to, yet equally foolish and prone to bouts of hysteria which required frequent trips to the maester who always reassured her with a regular cup of chamomile tea. She claimed it was similar to the ones Prince Aemond used for his headaches and launching into another speech about their commonality would often calm her much more than the warmth she consumed.

Jessika Wylde was her much shrewder counterpart. A stickler for rules, like her father, she was quick to find fault and assign blame to anyone who crossed her. Twice was a warning and thrice merited exile from her circle of grace to one of perpetual contempt, leaving many a servant crying from her chambers for want of a new mistress.

The last of her companions, Tyshara Lannister, was someone with whom she had found herself to be quite ingrained with. Quick witted and vivacious, she had the charm of a belle and the gall of a lion, often engaging in behaviors far too provocative for her stature yet evading speculation with an equally easy smile at her disposal.

“Very well then” he agreed reluctantly. “Hide this for me will you, at least till we're out of the keep” he whispered, handing her a small vial of Arbor gold.

“Must you really continue like this? Mother told me to keep an eye on you”

“The best way to cure oneself is through continuing with what caused the malady in the first place”

“I hardly think that applies to everything father”

“Well you haven't been out in the world much. Now come along”

The ride to the port was bumpy and much fouler than what she was expecting. The city was engulfed in a wave of humidity, making them perspire throughout the distance so much so that the breeze that blew through her hair as she stepped out to send them off was a welcome surprise.

“Be good,” her father warned her as he climbed aboard.

Tyshara took a while more to say her goodbyes, lingering next to her uncle till he sent her off with a kiss to her cheek.

“You seem quite close to him” she found herself saying as they climbed back into the royal carriage.

“He looks out for me,” she responded with a shrug. “He's been a source of comfort away from home”

“Do you miss it a lot? Casterly rock seems quite wonderful and self sufficient from all the tales I've heard”

“It is, but there is nothing quite like the freedom you have away from familial territory despite the nagging desire to return home. Besides I have Lyonel to keep me company” she finished with a wink.

Lyonel Westerling was the second son of Lord Harmon Westerling and nephew to the Lord commander of the Kingsguard, Ser Harrold. He’d been sent to King's landing to squire for Prince Aegon and when it was settled that he didn’t require his services within a week of his arrival, he was transferred at once into the gambit of his brother instead. Prince Aemond had been harsher on the man, grilling him to his wits end, for if his father wished for excellence he was sure to see it achieved in his son under the service of the second born prince.

Tyshara had been engaged with him within a moon of his arrival, citing commonality as the cause for her interest when it was his appearance that gave him real credibility. Tall, blond and built like a bull, he had an easy smile in place whenever he greeted them all, making him quite well received amongst the ladies at court. She however judged him to be much of a fool after a single conversation that floundered before he had to be rescued by a peer. Not that Tyshara minded. She liked them pretty in her own words and claimed a man was only ever interesting as long as he kept his mouth shut.

“What about you?” she asked, breaking her reverie. “Don't tell me there's isn't anyone who's caught your eye”

“No one in particular”

“I find that hard to believe. The capital is crawling with opportunists and men willing to make a name for themselves something I've noticed you seem to admire. I believe you're hiding something from us all” she said conspiratorially.

“I haven't paid anyone such close attention” she said, wringing her hands.

“Well then we must find you a match, or at least someone worth your while here, before your father returns of course. You need to know your prospects before they're snatched away from you”

“What good would that do?” she inquired

“You really are quite sheltered Melissa. Why it'll give you a standard to hold your husband to, not overlty that would be a blow to your marriage, but something at the side, something to call your own in the dark”

“A lover?” she asked incredulously

“It needn't be that. Think of it as a measure of comparison”

“Wouldn't that take away your joy”

“I believe it would quite add to it. Think about it and we shall begin our hunt tomorrow. I shall even ask Lyonel”

“Please don't” she said, reaching for her hands.

“Only with your permission” she said reassuringly. “Don't worry we don't really speak much in each other's company.”

Their return back to the keep was met with more excitement than what she'd expected out of the day. The men often took to training on days as such and while the ladies enjoyed fanning themselves from the balconies overlooking the outer courtyard, they'd take to showing off their skills with their blades to their onlooking admirers, meriting a chorus of oohs and aahs only for them to fall back to their usual chatter once again.

It was days quite as such that the Prince usually avoided, as per Cassandra’s observations of course, yet she found her lingering near the armory instead, accompanied by the rest of their group whispering to themselves.

“That is surprising,” Tyshara said as they descended to greet them.

“Prince Aemond has challenged a man for her honor” Lynette whispered as they reached closer, nearly squealing with joy as she observed him bent over the table of weapons. Before she could inquire who it was she felt a sharp squeeze to her arm by an ashen blonde who looked like she'd seen a ghost.

“It isn't as romantic as you think it is Lynette” Jessika huffed “He's merely doing his duty”

“By the woman promised to him” Cassandra sighed.

“If you'd even call it that” Jessika murmured as they all looked ahead.

Lyonel Westerling stood a few feet away from the prince swinging his mace in practice with quite a lot of accuracy, not that she knew much about battle, but he appeared as confident as a man who knew what he was doing. She saw the prince take his stance a moment later, brandishing a shortsword, a good choice of weapon as per Jessika’s observation, being easy to balance with an accompanying shield in his other hand before they both began to circle each other.

Their match didn't last long. Lyonel Westerling ended up being quite good with his mace but all the more slow with his footwork leading to him being defeated by Prince Aemond with proficient agility and skill, circling and tiring him out till he landed the last blow.

“Yield” she heard him say with his sword to his neck, not before nicking him in the process.

His quick victory was followed by a round of applause which he accepted with a crisp nod in Cassandra's direction before storming out without a word. She saw her smile towards them all, victorious in her own way and while Tyshara rushed to her own companion, trying to appraise his bruised ego and she wondered why someone wishing to be betrothed to a man would be accepting of such disregard on his part.

-x-

Over the course of the day she came to know of the incident of the yard from every mouth she encountered. Cassandra proclaimed that she had been propositioned by Lyonel Westerling and that he had been quite insistent in his manner prompting Prince Aemond to action. That was the crux of the word going around, albeit in different forms. She'd heard other whispers of Lyonel’s dissatisfaction with the prince himself, about a few of his peculiar tastes and even about how he wished to join the kingsguard and had used the duel as part of his training or that he'd simply grown rather tired of keeping things within the family and wished to try out a Stormlander instead.

Tyshara, fueled with indignation, mostly at the last remark, had done all that she could to spread word that he’d been slandered by Cassandra who had conjured up her accusations to win the prince over. Her story however, as scandalous as it was, wasn't as interesting to catch wind and ended up being buried under the multitude of falsehood going around.

By midday, their allyship was in shambles. Tyshara had declared, in no few words, that she wished to separate from their pack of betrayers, leaving to stand faithfully by Lyonel instead. Cassandra on the other hand, bothered as she was for the hour, considered it to be just another reason to fan the flames. Throughout all of this, she'd taken to hearing both sides as was the custom of the Hightowers, forming proper judgment after insight from both ends, yet nearing the end of the day she found herself sequestered in the one place she knew they all wouldn’t deign necessary to check.

The library of the red keep was one she was hoping to pay a visit to, as soon as they'd arrived. She'd been an avid reader back home, something she'd acquired from her mother, poring over more stories than texts, to spend her days. While her mother prided herself on her knowledge of the functioning of the kingdom and its affairs, she found herself far more interested in its people and tales from across the realm had done much to sate her curiosity.

The library had to be reached by climbing four flights of stairs with a single landing separating them. Intricate balustrades of red sandstone carved with dragon heads greeted her as she continued onward, their tails curling around the railing with which she dragged herself towards her destination. There was an old tale that went around the keep, about how the old Maester Mellos collapsed on these very flight of steps, leading to his demise. It did quite feel like it as she huffed her way to the top, panting with the weight of her skirts as she leaned against the open iron door.

The King's library was a marvel to behold. Nestled up near the parapets of the keep, with a ceiling made entirely of glass, she found herself staring at the glazed roof as she entered. Spiral shelves lined the hall, made of something similar to the koa trees of the Arbor. There were nearly a thousand tomes lining the walls she supposed, hidden from most due to their differing tastes and she found herself thanking her mother for introducing her to wonder as she continued her exploration.

“They're not koa” she heard a knowing voice near her as she turned around from her inspection of the shelves.

Prince Aemond sat at a circular table near the center of the hall, with a couple of tomes arranged neatly near a burning candle.

“The wood is different up close” she said in acknowledgement wondering how he knew she was thinking of the Arbor.

“They were a gift, all the way from Sothyros crafted for King Aenys. The wood is known as padauk” he said, rising to speak to her.

“I hope I'm not interrupting your grace”

“There aren't many who visit at this hour”

“I can leave,” she said hurriedly.

“That's not what I meant,” he said, reaching behind her to pick out a tome.

“What do you wish to find today, my lady”

“Something to pass my time” she whispered, shy that she had been caught off guard.

“And how do you pass your time? What interests you”

“I doubt you'd want to hear, your grace” she said, averting her gaze.

“Come,” he said, bidding her to follow him as he wove through the passages of wood till they reached one of the furthest shelves down the hall. “This would be more to your taste, I presume. You may join me if you wish or continue as you were” he said turning to hand her a tome.

“The Edge of the World” she read aloud “by Maester Balder. This looks like quite an adventure” she said smiling as he looked at her with interest. “I'd like to join you”

The rest of their hour was spent in comfortable silence as she read over the old maester’s travels. He wrote of his time in the Night's watch centuries before Aegon's conquest, describing East watch by the sea and the island of Skagos, much north of Castle black, infested by smugglers and pirates rooted out by brave men. She saw him look up from time to time catching his gaze with a shy smile of her own as he pored over his own scrolls with a copy of Septon Barth’s infamous tome to the side.

“Do you wish to read this next?” he asked.

“I might take a while,” she answered, earning a hum in return. “May I ask you a question?” she continued as he went back to his work.

“Is it about dragons?” he asked not looking up from his reading.

“About this afternoon” she said, unsure of how to proceed after noticing him tense.

“What would you like to know?”

“Is it true?”

“You'll need to be more specific,” he responded, drumming his fingers on the table.

“What happened with Cassandra?”

“Are you enquiring as to whether I'm betrothed?” he said looking up with a smirk.

She felt her cheeks heat up as she responded “I only wanted to know if the rumors were true, regarding Lord Lyonel. He's involved with a friend of mine”

“Lady Lannister, is it?”

“Tyshara, yes”

“I wouldn't know,” he said casually, returning to opening a new set of texts.

“You fought for her honor” she said, surprised at his easy dismissal of Cassandra.

“As was my duty” he said nonchalantly.

“I don't understand,” she muttered, earning a glare in return.

“Lady Cassandra claimed to be harassed by a man squiring for me. How do you think I should have responded?”

“She considers the outcome to be far different”

“A woman's presumption”

“What does that mean?” she asked indignantly.

“It indicates exactly what I said, a morbid predisposition for exaggeration and fantasy”

“And what would you consider me then, with a similar interest in tales as such” she said, shutting her tome abruptly. “You gave me a tale of adventure, about strange one horned beasts and pirates. Surely you'd hold a better opinion of your companion for the day or am I to be ridiculed behind my back once I leave too”

“You misunderstand me, my lady,” he spoke noticing her distress.

“No,” she said standing up “Thank you for your time your grace, but I'm certain I must leave you now”

She fought the urge to give in as she heard the scrape of his chair, hurrying down the steps before he caught sight of her fallen face. The echo of her footsteps in that corner of the castle soon faded as she rushed to her chambers, distracted by her duress that indicated she was surprisingly more upset at his perception of her than his unconfirmed betrothal.

-x-

The hour of the nightingale troubled her again. She lay awake in bed as her maid came to wake her, perplexed as to whether she should join them all for the day. It was the tenth day of the moon and her absence was sure to be noted. A lone eye pierced through her musing, haunting her as she whined into the cushions in the dark before waking up with a jolt.

The way to their hideout came easy to her and she arrived there almost too early to be considered proper, only to find him seated alone, at the head of their table. His gaze bore into her as soon as she walked in, commanding yet somewhat anxious as he stood to welcome her.

“You're early” he said, bidding her to sit as he ordered tea for them both.

“I considered not showing” she responded, turning her gaze away from him.

“Without cause?”

“There's plenty to me, your grace” she said, folding her hands on her lap.

“I did not intend to offend you, my lady” he said upon noticing her continued silence.

“You made me feel like a fool” she found herself whispering.

“Then you must know I have no patience for one” he said sharply, softening his tone upon noticing her perplexity “I don't begrudge tales, only falsehood” he continued softly “And I despise tardiness”

“Like that of today?” she said gesturing to the two empty seats at his side which hadn't been filled despite the approaching hour.

“There was more to your reading than unicorns and giants though?” he said after a pause looking at her as the servants poured them two cups of mint tea.

“Maester Balder wrote his tale as a warning”

“Of the dangers of prejudice?” she questioned.

“You consider it untrue?”

“He claimed the Skags were inhuman, more beast than man, feasting on human flesh and delighting in sacrifice made to the Old gods” she continued “Exaggeration of the foreign fairly seems like an adequate portrayal of their true nature”

“And yet familiar customs still prevail far North. The feast of Skane being one such instance of the past” he said, noticing her discomfort.

The Feast of Skane was written to be one of the most horrific things she'd read describing a Skagosi war fleet descending upon the smaller isle of Skane nearby. While the women of Skane were raped and carried off by the Skagosi, the Skanish men were consumed by the warriors in a feast which lasted a fortnight on the sands of the pebbled beach. Skane thereafter was said to be haunted by the screams of its deceased, deafening many travelers who happened to pass near its shores.

“Perhaps highlighting the ills of tradition passed down through generations merit speculation”

“Was it really tradition if they were never heard of again?” she questioned.

“The tales of victors tend to be written as such, continued through time by others wishing to follow in their path, emulating virtue and vice alike” he replied, sipping his tea. “Nevertheless the more magical parts of his tale tend to garner much attention. Their obsidian blades and fine mounts are enough to avoid further speculation” he spoke with emphasis. “Their horses however, pale in comparison to the wonders of our own world,” he finished, smirking as he saw her smile.

“I suppose flying beasts are far more inspiring,” she said, smiling into her own cup.

“Ones that make the unworthy quiver”

“Anyone who isn't a Targaryen would” she continued with a laugh.

“Perhaps” he said in contemplation, setting his cup down to welcome his siblings.

“What are you upto so early in the morn?” Aegon huffed as he plopped himself to the left of his brother. “Has he been boring you with philosophy again” he asked turning to her “Honestly brother, you must give it a rest lest we all fall asleep here”

“Did you not sleep well last night?” she inquired politely.

“Helaena and I couldn't quite seem to settle in,” he responded with a cheeky grin noticing her blush and shift to order two glasses of honeyed milk.

“So my lady” Aegon spoke, turning to her again. “It is time for you to delight us with whatever tales you've managed to acquire these past few days”

“There isn't much to tell,” she replied, setting her cup down.

“Well it has been quite eventful though hasn't it, or perhaps you don't quite understand the nature of our agreement” he said drinking from his chalice filled with green apple wine.

“I am sure you're aware of the rumors going around. Lady Cassandra” she continued looking at Aemond “Claimed harassment and was soon won over. That has been the most of what's been going around”

“Yes yes, our brother serving as her glorious knight, we've heard enough of that already”

“She was gloating all afternoon while she helped with the children” Helaena said thoughtfully “Quite distasteful for someone who felt insulted”

“It doesn't seem to add up does it” Aegon continued looking right at her.

“I only know as much as you, your grace”

“What a shame,” he said, turning to face his brother as she found him staring at her in wait, drumming his fingers on the table as he cocked his head to the side.

“Lady Tyshara was quite bereaved” she found herself continuing. “She believed Lord Lyonel to be innocent”

“Are you questioning my brother's judgment?” Aegon said with a smirk, teetering towards aggression.

“No your grace, I'm simply letting you know what I've heard. She accompanied me to see my father off in the morn and spoke of him in detail”

“Was this before he left?” Helaena asked, sipping her glass of cold milk.

“Yes, she accompanied me to see her uncle off. They seemed awfully close at the docks” she finished, uncomfortable under their scrutiny.

“How close?” Aegon asked, leaning towards her.

“He kissed her,” she said, earning a satisfied hum from her inquisitor in front.

“I told you” Aegon clapped delightedly.

“The Lannisters are prone to it”

“There isn't much evidence Aegon” Helaena spoke “And besides what difference does it make, look at us”

“They aren't us mandia” Aemond said turning to look at her “Quite discomforting behavior to witness from a friend, won't you say” he continued looking right at her.

“She brushed it off” she said, noticing Aegon cackle again with glee.

“This day is off to a very good start” he said, raising his cup to himself with another jape of his own.

As each of them carried on, recounting a minor tale that took place, the nagging feeling of betrayal deepened within her only for it to be quieted by a contented look of approval from a single eye that never left sight of her.

-x-

Her days carried on in fear of the lioness. She'd taken to avoiding most of the ladies, citing her longing for home to be intense enough to dampen their spirits were she to accompany them, leaving the library as her only place of refuge. The quiet of the hall, the echoing of her footsteps with the occasional sound of the opening of a scroll, or the arranging of tomes back on the shelves where they belonged, brought her much peace compared to the whirlwind of thoughts occupying her mind. Then there was also the presence of the prince.

He'd taken to reading with her, often sitting beside her in silence as he worked for hours on end, occasionally passing a few remarks and engaging her with more questions pertaining to her own tome. She found herself fascinated with his knowledge, seeking him out often to her own detriment, only to be reprimanded by a maester nearby to lower her voice and for him to be hushed by a harsh glare from her teacher. He, on the other hand, found her amusing, encouraging her doubts and providing her with more once they finished for the day, enough for her to forget her folly till she returned to her own chambers and was wrought with guilt again.

Much to her chagrin, Tyshara sought her out a few days later.

“You've been avoiding me” she said confronting her in the hallways “I considered you wise enough to not fall for Cassandra’s fables”

She wished to deny the accusation but had nothing to say for her own admission in front of her cousins mere days before. “Lyonel is still in service to Prince Aemond in case you don't know” she continued oblivious to her turmoil “He refuses to be reassigned”

“Isn't that a good thing? The Prince is quite proficient and a good instructor” she said, surprised at the slip of her tongue.

“Don't tell me you're enamored with him. As if the rest weren't enough. He's evil Melissa, you'd do well to stay away from him”

“Because he beat Lord Lyonel?”

“Because none of you are capable of looking past a man's beauty”

“To see what? His cursed soul?” she jested stopping at a corner.

“I refuse to engage in conversation regarding him any further and I'm assuming from your defense that's why you haven't sought me out” she said placing her hands on her hips. “He's a bad influence, even more than his brother”

“You surely jest, Tyshara” she replied incredulously

“I'm afraid, I do not. If you continue along this path you'll only be disappointed”

“And what path is that?” she asked upset at the turn of events “Being nice to my own cousin? Perhaps I've merely taken inspiration from you” she continued, surprised at herself upon noticing her shock.

“I hope you haven't, he'll only lead you to ruin” she finished walking away from her without waiting to hear what she had to say.

-x-

She spent a day moping afterwards, refusing to leave the confines of her chambers even for her sanctuary of books, till she realized how lonely she felt and was out soon with a new companion.

Lynette Beesbury wasn't exceptional company, but made for a decent companion to meander through the hallways, whiling away their time on the mundane, much pleasing after the ordeal of the past few days.

She found herself strolling with her through the castle, exploring hidden chambers covered in cobwebs and dust only to erupt in a fit of giggles at another jape she passed at things strewn about the floors. That morning they'd decided to try out the Godswood, a small endeavor before they barged in on another set of doors and spent their day examining the strange objects it contained.

It was a bright day with the leaves of the giant weirwood glistening in hues of red under the sunlight. She found herself thinking about the worship of the Skags again as they made their way forwards only to find a head of silver crouched near one of the shrubs.

Princess Helaena sat kneeling near a few bushes with her hands covered in dirt holding a small brown beetle in her palms.

“Hello” she greeted them as she spotted them peering from a distance.

“What do you have in your hands princess” she found herself speaking as she made her way towards her.

She heard her ask for a set of glass jars near her before opening her palms to trap the little beetle in one of them as she handed it to her for inspection.

“This is a dung beetle,” she said, smiling at the trapped brown bug. “I've been wanting to study one for some time”

“I thought you only liked the dead ones,” Lynette chirped, standing at the base of the weirwood tree, observing them from a distance.

“This one serves a greater purpose alive”

“How so?” she questioned wrinkling her nose at the smell emanating from the jar.

“They can predict the future” Helaena said sitting on her haunches as she stared at them. “Some claim they can find their way out of anywhere just by following the stars, whose patterns they know by heart. Others think that they can predict when it rains, or when the crops are bound to fail”

“Like bug seers?” she said examining the little insect.

“I'm somewhat gifted myself” Lynette interrupted “I sense things too, though only pertaining to myself”

“Like what?” she asked as the princess took the jar back from her and moved to stand.

“I can sense when I'm about to get my moonblood, days before it arrives”

“Isn't that common to all women, Lynette?” she asked, perplexed.

“No, I've noticed it arrives whenever the tree cries. Look” she said, pointing to the face of white bark that was now streaked with red “I might get it soon”

She found herself rolling her eyes before turning to face the princess staring at the tree with interest.

“The dragon shall claim its flame through a sea of blood” she said thoughtfully as she continued to stare at the sap emerging from its eyes.

“I think it works for the Princess too” Lynette whispered, noticing her vacant stare before going back to gazing at the face again.

She turned her gaze towards the tree with a scoff only to notice its solemn face almost contorted with anguish. She wondered then about the dragon the princess spoke of, as they stood still under the canopy of the heart tree, each contemplating something of their own. Perhaps she ought not to ignore the musings of her cousin.

Taglist: @witheredoffherwitch @barbieaemond @succnfuccubus @arcielee @watercolorskyy @paprikaquinn

#house of the dragon #zae's fics #aemond fics #aemond x oc #aemond x fem!oc #aemond targaryen x oc #aemond targaryen x ofc #aemond targaryen x fem!oc #aemond targaryen x original female character #aemond targaryen x original character #hotd fic

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some-pers0n · 1 year ago

Text

Fatal Flaw

Fandom: WoF

Characters: Clearsight, Darkstalker

CW: Clearstalker-typical behavior (manipulation, fighting, the works)

Summary: Clearsight confronts Darkstalker after discovering that he cursed her earring.

Word Count: 3.4K

A/N: So I was possessed to write this nightmare of a relationship. I forgot how blatantly and obviously evil Darkstalker was presented in the Legends. The scene where this oneshot's based on has him give a half-assed reason for enchanting Clearsight's earrings and quite literally (no exaggeration here) basically going: "Well then, buh-bye! I am going to kill the queen!"

Anywho, enjoy!

Clearsight swooped down, landing onto the library. She paced around the area, trying to relieve some stress before the inevitable were to happen. All of the futures near her came crashing together, forming a clear idea of what was to happen.

She and Darkstalker were going to have a little argument.

She hadn't remembered the last time they argued. Minor disagreements? Sure, yes, of course. Every couple has those. But, an argument? That was something entirely different. Yet, she didn't think of it as frightening. She knew what Darkstalker could do. She couldn't care less though. What he had done- what he plans on doing to this kingdom... Well, to simply stand by and let it happen would be the worst mistake possible.

This was necessary, both for them and their relationship and for the rest of the kingdom.

Darkstalker landed beside her, dust kicking up from his wings. "The library rooftop?" He glanced around the area. It was a peaceful and quiet area. A small garden surrounded them, benches dotted every now and then. Marble spires stood in the corners. Combined with the setting sun and the beautiful hues of twilight, it was a gorgeous place.

"My, what a romantic little spot you've dragged me to," he said, his eyes eventually landing on a white rose. He plucked the head of it, handing it over to her. "But, it all pales in comparison to you."

Clearsight grumbled in response. "You know why we're here."

"What? Was that too cheesy of a compliment, even for your standards?" He chuckled. "I see." He crumpled the rose, throwing the remains back into the bushes. "Simply putting off the main event. Trying to lighten the mood before you begin it all."

Clearsight sighed. "Not too great how you put it like that. I'm not some big bad evil dragon for not wanting my closest friend to trick me."

"Friend? Is that what I've been relegated to?"

"I-" she took a small breath. "-I didn't mean it like that. I still...love you, just I don't feel particularly safe when you go behind my back and do things." She fidgeted with her ear. "I loved that earring, you know? It went well with my eyes, yes, but when I heard you made it yourself I... I thought it was even better. You told me you didn't enchant it into being."

"I didn't. I did make it, that part is true."

"Then what about enchanting it to make me unable to see any futures where you're king of the NightWings? Ones where you're some self-proclaimed emperor over the entire continent?"

He merely looked at her straight in the eyes and said, "that was a little bonus. Come now, don't act like you weren't a lot happier once they stopped happening."

"I didn't even remember them happening before!"

"Another little bonus. Makes you forget that they were even there in the first place. For all you knew, I was perfect. We'd be together for the rest of our short, insignificant lives, raising dragonets and being happy in each other's company. Not to say those futures aren't pleasant in their own right, but I'd rather have my life here be one of more...magnitude. To do something. To be a hero in the eyes of many, as opposed to hiding away like a coward and afraid of my own magic."

"That's what you think of Fathom all along, isn't it?" she asked.

"Fathom? Him? I suppose it is, yes. Though, he'll come out of his shell eventually. A shame he hasn't used his potential to its fullest. That old murderer did a number on his psyche, didn't it?" His face shifted into a crooked smile.

"He's your friend," she hissed.

"I know he is. I want to help him. It's what I've been focusing on more as of late. I don't see what is the issue."

"The issue is that you seem a lot more confident in using your magic."

"Shouldn't I be?" he asked, approaching her. "Clearsight, love of my life, I've never been scared of my magic. I've been liberal with my usage, yes, but never scared. My powers are a gift, one that I must use to bring peace to the two tribes."

"You want to kill them."

Darkstalker paused. "And what makes you say that?" Looking at him was as though staring into pure evil. Yet, he looked no different than the dragonet she had met all those years back. This dragon she cared about, shared laughs and memories with, spent so much time with, was he really like this?

She tapped her claws on the wooden floor. "I can see all these futures where the Ice Kingdom is reduced to ash and dust. Ones where you've repurposed it into more land for the NightWings. Ones where you force all the IceWings to submit and bow to you. I can see ones where I'm standing next to you, watching as the gorgeous palace burns." She sighed. "And we're smiling. You're smiling. Me? I can...feel it. In all of those futures, it's the same. I can feel how my face is forced into that position. I'm not happy. I want to scream at you. I want to claw your throat out. I want to stop this chaos. I hate you. Yet, I stand there, useless and incapable of doing anything. In those futures, you've done something to me to make me...nothing like me."

Darkstalker straightened his neck. "You're stressed over that? The chance that I control you further than you'd like?"

"It's not just that. I mean, yes of course I'd rather remain myself and sufficiently not enchanted beyond recognition just so you still have somebody by your side in your conquest, but it's more." She blinked, feeling her eyes welling up. "I don't want you to do any of these things. You know I don't. You're probably prying around in my mind right now, aren't you? You're seeing all of the futures and plotting what next to say so you're so frustratingly distant." She flexed her claws. "Why can't you just be yourself? Why can't it be like the old days?"

He laughed. "I don't think I could go back to those 'old days' if I'd like. I don't know how else to tell you, but I've always been like this. It's almost adorable, how you constantly try to go back through those old memories. You keep trying to cling to the idea that I was once a better dragon. Some innocent and hapless fool. Perhaps I was once that. But, that was your rose-coloured view of me. I assure you, my sweet, that I was no different back then." He grinned.

A lump formed in her throat. She wanted to speak, say anything. It didn't matter what. A half-baked insult. Pleading that he was lying. Desperate attempts to reason with him and talk him out of it all. Something as pathetic and sad as a quiet, strained sob. Yet, nothing. She was frozen.

"I can tell it's a lot to take in." He drew closer to her. "I would be shocked too if I were in your position. The love of my life? Somebody who I've trusted for so long? How could you be so cruel? Well, I personally don't see it as that. Perhaps you're giving these IceWings too much credence."

"Why shouldn't I?" Clearsight spat out.

"Why? Because they don't deserve to be treated with kindness and respect. You know this too, don't know? IceWings are vile, horrible dragons. Look at them. Look at their circles. Standing high and mighty with such pride and arrogance as to believe they are a superior tribe. They are pathetic. They hide behind their lavish walls and watch the rest of the continent, laughing amongst themselves for other tribes not being as civilized as them. Hypocrites. They spit and laugh at those lower to them. Put the weak, ill, elderly, those deemed 'useless' at the outskirts of their kingdom, far from where they can hear their pleas for help."

Darkstalker's eyes narrowed harshly. "They hate. That's the only thing they know how to do. They hate their own brothers and sisters for not being as nauseously strong. Imagine: you are doomed to live in horrible conditions and deemed utterly useless by your society for simply being hatched with an illness, not being physically able to hunt, or for having the smallest shred of decency and kindness in your soul. For simply not being 'good enough', you are sentenced to a village where, if there ever were to be an attack, your house would go up in flames and no guards would be to save you. If anything, those in the higher circles will laugh as they drink their wine and eat their lavish meals, giggling about how it was about time."

He looked back at her. "Do you think those dragons deserve sympathy? Mercy? They are disgusting. Revolting on all levels. They are built on hate and oppressive rules that only hurt. They want nothing more than the destruction of the rest of the tribes. To be the only ones. They are vicious, horrible dragons who don't deserve even an ounce of kindness. They only destroy, pillage, and hate. They would be better off gone. No more could they hurt. No longer will they be able to curse this continent with their presence. It would be a blessing if I were to just snap my talons right now and force them all to tear their own hearts out, wouldn't you agree, my darling Clearsight?"

Clearsight had to hold back from gagging. To hear him speak with such vitriol and malice... She knew he wasn't fond of them. But, to this extent? To kill them all? Vile. Simply evil.

"Evil?" he echoed, "seems a bit much."

"So you ARE reading my mind!" she snapped.

"Of course. It's a bit hard to. I love hearing your thoughts. They're oftentimes eloquent and beautiful. A lot more refined and pleasing than any other dragon I've met." He raised his talons, stroking her snout. "You're a perfect dragon. You deserve better than to be so...fragile."

"Is that what you think of me? Fragile?" She backed away.

"Well, it isn't-"

"No, you think of yourself as better than me, don't know? More powerful. You have the ability to do whatever you want, and it- it's all gone to your head! Look out at the plaza. Look at all of these NightWings. What do you see them as."

Darkstalker glanced at the busy streets. "I see them as...weak beings."

"So you admit it."

"Of course! I would never lie to you."

"You lied about the earring."

"You never asked or questioned if it was enchanted, only if it I willed it into being," he answered, a smug, pompous feeling etched into his words.

"I shouldn't have to ask if it's enchanted! I should just be able to trust you and not have to sit there, wondering if every second is my last one spent free. Perhaps I'm enchanted right now. The moons only know if you've subtly messed with me. Every thought of mine could be influenced by your magic. I wouldn't even know if what I'm saying is what the real me would do-"

Darkstalker cut her off with his low, rumbly laugh. "Your paranoia is so funny to see. My sweet, if I didn't value you so much, I would've silenced you and made you forget about everything. Put back on the earring, this time with a couple more adjustments so you never find out. Or perhaps make it a permanent spell on you. Make you quiet and agreeable." He tisked. "But, that's not you, is it? That's not the dragon who I love so dearly."

"So you value me and not enchanting me, but not the others? You would do this to anybody else?"

"Of course! Why wouldn't I? I'm only held back because I have a connection with you. A bond so deep it defies the universe. I love you, Clearsight."

"You...you want to kill the IceWings," she muttered.

"A necessary action to take to ensure the safety and prosperity of not only our kingdom, but the entire tribe. Look at me and tell me that the IceWings offer anything of value to the other tribes. Anything. Their culture isn't anything to gawk at. It's dystopian and shameful. It's oppressive and they value certain dragons more than others over superficial and idiotic reasons, leaving others behind to feed off of the scraps."

"Isn't that what you are like as well?" she asked.

A pause. The atmosphere grew tense and stiff. It was harder to breathe, her lungs almost rejecting what little air could worm its way into her. Darkstalker's eyes were still, the silvery pupils glistening in the evening light.

"Clearsight!" he responded, his manner playful and humorous. It didn't hide the brewing frustration in him. "You honestly believe I am like that? To be even so much as comparable to them? That's rich!" He laughed.

"I'm not joking. Th- this isn't a joke! These are dragons, Darkstalker. Dragons with real lives you're talking about. Hopes, dreams, goals, aspirations, all that. They are as alive as you are."

He snorted. "Again, bold to assume they would even have those. Their lives are nothing but to serve the kingdom. They are miserable inside of it and out. Look no further than my father. A parasite on the life of my mother. He tricked her, making her believe that there was something more to him. That he wasn't like the rest. That he was as soulful as she was. Then, he trapped her in a loveless, horrible marriage. Not a day passed without them at each other's throats. Depressed and alone without anybody else except her two dragonets. That was until she finally had enough and..." he sighed. "She didn't deserve her fate. She didn't deserve such a grisly demise."

"So you're simply using your father as a reference? A guideline for how the tribe works?"

"It's only natural for the royalty of such a tribe to be practically the epitome of such a toxic and horrible environment. It's in his nature to act in such a way. To suck the life out of anything and everyone. He ruined Foeslayer. He ruined Whiteout. He ruined me. For that, I've seen enough. I know how terrible these dragons are."

"So you're completely fine with killing them all?"

"Yes."

Clearsight refrained from her knee-jerk reaction to scream and yell "What's WRONG with you?!" and rather took a small breath. "And what makes you believe you're any better than them? With all of your talk about being vastly greater than them? With believing you're higher and better than any other dragon? With thinking that everything would be better if the other tribe was dead?"

"Clearsight, that's a bit of a reach-"

"Is it? Is it!? From what you've been going on about, you've done nothing to say something even remotely moral. You've only tried to justify your actions. It's never your fault for anything, is it? You enchanting my earring, that was to make me happy, wasn't it? You never consulted me before. You simply altered me in a way I couldn't even tell as a 'surprise gift'. Was it really to make me happy? Or was it to make me shut up and blindly follow you?"

"Clearsight, that's quite enough-"

"I'm not done yet. The way you talk about other dragons is abhorrent at best and downright despicable and evil on the regular. Not just the IceWings, but anybody else. I'll spend an afternoon with Listener and then the minute I get back you'll go on and complain about her. I remember you once 'joking' about how you wished you could enchant her to lose her voice. I don't think that was so much of a joke as is what you genuinely wanted. You want power. You want to be this...figure that everyone loves. Aren't I and Fathom enough? Moons above we care about you."

"Clearsight, that's enough."

"You say you love me, but I can't honestly believe in that. I don't believe in my own feelings for you either. What part of me is real and genuinely cares about you, and what part is fabricated from your enchantments? I can't tell. Perhaps all of it. It's...sad watching you become this dragon. I know you're not like this. You're better. You're not some evil dragon. But, you're determined to see this through, aren't you? This plot to kill Queen Vigilance and claim her throne, as if you'll do any better of a job than her. She's got sheep for brains, but you're a monster-"

"Enough out of you!" Darkstalker snarled. He raised his talons, clamping them together. With that, Clearsight's mouth closed. She couldn't speak. Her breathing quickened as she tried to breathe. Whole whole body seized up. She couldn't move a muscle.

"I've been merciful for a while, letting you vent out your frustrations. Believe me, my dear, I understand why you would be so angry. It's only natural you'd react in such a way. However, you haven't grown to realize that this all is for, well, you. Me getting rid of the IceWings and making way for a sweet, peaceful existence? It's all for you to be happy. My parents weren't happy. I don't want us to be like them. Ever. We deserve a happier life, one full of love and joy."

He paced around her. "I do it all because I love you. None of it is selfish, I assure you. I promise you with all of my heart and soul that it's for you. Every enchantment. Every spell and utterance. It's all for you. Yes, even now with me keeping you still. I need a moment to talk. For you to understand without objecting or claiming falsehoods."

He came to her snout, grabbing her by the chin. He tilted her head up, letting her stare right into his cold, black eyes. "I love you, Clearsight. Though you may be scared, you may find me strange and unsettling, I know you do too. You may hate me in this moment. You may find me disgusting and horrible. But, we both know one thing is certain. You love me. It's the truth. You do love me. Even when you crawl into your bed tonight, hateful and wishing you could've said anything else to win this 'argument', you will love me. Even when I kill Vigilance, you will love me. Even when I send waves of plagues and famine upon the IceWings, slaughtering village after village in order to maintain peace and fulfill my destiny, you will love me. It's our fatal flaw. We love each other more than anything else."

He looked at her with a longing, sweet expression. "I love you, Clearsight. I love you."

With that, he opened his talons. Clearsight dropped to the ground, grasping at the floor. She gasped for air, clawing away from him.

"Would you like me to help you up?" He held out his talons.

"GET AWAY!" Clearsight screamed. She swiped at his claws with anger, sadness, and above all: fear. What would've otherwise been a blow so powerful and heavy it could've sliced at least a couple claws off glazed along his scales. Not a single scratch.

She flailed away from him, opening her wings and taking off into the skies. She flew away from the library, her legs sprinting through the air as if it would make her go faster. She needed to get away from him. She didn't even notice the tears pouring from her eyes until they were rushing against the wind, drying as quickly as they formed.

She felt hopeless. There was nothing she could do against him. Any sort of plea or reasoning would only make him more annoyed and upset. It could endanger more lives. He was already dead set on killing Queen Vigilance. It was only a matter of time he did it. She was useless.

But, above all, she felt betrayed. That wasn't the dragon she fell in love with. That couldn't be him. The one who she stuck by whenever things got rough. The one who cared about her and told her that she was the most lovely thing in the world. The one who promised her a loving, and sweet future where they'd both be happy and love each other.

That was the dragon she loved, not this...thing.

...was he even that different though? He was right. The more she thought about it, the more of these repressed memories bubbled up. Moments where Darkstalker would say or do something that would otherwise be harmful and horrible. He'd joke about the NightWings all bowing to him one day. He'd bring up hypothetical about him 'going mad' and what Fathom and her would do about it.

A sick, disgusting pit formed in her stomach as the realization dawned on her. She...really did love this dragon; and no matter what he'd do or what she'd say, there was nothing that could change that. This was the future Darkstalker that she wanted all of those years ago. This was her soulmate. This was the dragon who she loved.

#wof #wings of fire #somepersonswriting #darkstalker wof #clearsight wof #wof fanfic #SP-writing

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