#how was i going to convince anyone - and especially myself - that this could become a healthy relationship again for the both of them?

[feathers-in-the-night]

ive been reading Battle for the Cowl and the subsequent Batman and Robin titles - so the comics that deal with the aftermath of Bruce’s death and Dicks eventual acceptance of the mantle and i have to say

Given how Tim describes how Dick is acting post Bruce’s death, I don’t think BW was all that off, actually. Lmao. 

Like yeah, this Dick did still work well with others. But in BW he’s not just dealing w the death of Bruce, but also the trauma of almost burning to death with Bruce the night it happened, it makes sense that he’s slightly more volatile and lashes out? And BW starts after some time has gone by where he’s had time to really marinate in that grief and trauma. 

I think the tone of the comics has always been way darker than the YJ show -OBVIOUSLY - and maybe the reason I felt like BW was getting too dark, or Dick was getting too dark, was because I kept comparing this story to the TV show, when maybe i should’ve been comparing it to the comics instead?

[hsnlv]

unexpectedly yours. | p.sh

req!: I would love a fic about Sunghoon falling in love with the most unexpected person ever…. (the rest is here!)

pairing: sunghoon x fem!reader

synopsis: sunghoon always thought he’d fall for someone quiet and delicate, but meeting you—wild curls, sun-kissed skin, and unmatched chaos—changes everything. as he falls deeper, he learns love isn’t what he expected; it’s better.

wc: 1.09k

a/n: this one, to me, IS VERY ADORBSSSS (especially towards the end🤭). and im sorry if what the request-er (?)wanted is not delivered as perfectly :( but i still love this and i hope you do too!! feedbacks and comments are highly appreciated (through inbox or comments idm!)💗 happy reading lovelies!!🎀 here’s my masterlist!

park sunghoon wasn’t the type to attend parties. but here he was, leaning against a kitchen counter, sipping a drink he didn’t like, wondering for the millionth time why he had let jake drag him here.

“you’re too cool for your own good,” jake had teased earlier. “seriously, hoon. maybe you’ll meet someone who makes you loosen up a little.”

sunghoon wasn’t in the mood to “loosen up.” parties weren’t his thing, and meeting people definitely wasn’t on his to-do list.

but then, he saw you.

you were hard to miss.

standing in the middle of the living room, you were laughing so hard your shoulders shook, a carefree sound that rose above the music. your skin glowed under the warm party lights—a rich, sun-kissed tone that made you look like summer incarnate.

your outfit wasn’t what anyone would call stylish, with your mismatched patterns and wild curly hair that seemed to have a mind of its own. but somehow, you looked radiant. untamed. completely, unapologetically yourself.

his gaze lingered longer than it should have. your body wasn’t what most people called “perfect”—soft in places he wasn’t used to seeing celebrated, your curves wrapped in confidence. you weren’t quiet or shy or delicate, the way he always thought his “type” would be.

and yet, you were magnetic.

he was so caught up in the way you threw your head back to laugh again, your curls bouncing wildly, that he didn’t notice jake sidling up beside him.

“she’s something, huh?” jake asked, smirking.

sunghoon blinked. “who?”

“don’t play dumb. the girl you’ve been staring at for, like, five minutes.”

“i wasn’t staring,” sunghoon said, looking away too quickly to be convincing.

“uh-huh. you should go talk to her.”

“she’s not my type.”

jake rolled his eyes. “your type is boring. she’s fun. go.”

sunghoon didn’t know why he listened. but before he could second-guess himself, his feet were already moving toward you.

you turned as he approached, your eyes wide and curious, and smiled like you were greeting an old friend.

hi,” she said, her voice light and playful. “you’re…” she tilted her head, studying him. “jake’s friend, right?”

“yeah. i’m sunghoon.”

she smiled, bright and unfiltered. “nice to meet you, sunghoon. i’m (y/n).”

he hesitated, then blurted out the first thing that came to mind. “you… like dancing?”

y/n squinted at him, as if trying to gauge if he was serious. “no, i hate it. that’s why i’ve been embarrassing myself for the past hour.”

sunghoon blinked, caught off guard by her sarcasm.

“you don’t talk much, do you?” she teased, leaning against the wall, her curly hair brushing her shoulders.

“i talk,” he said defensively.

“yeah? then say something interesting.”

he frowned, and she laughed again, clearly amused by his discomfort.

and just like that, she’d effortlessly disarmed him.

────── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──────

weeks later

it didn’t take long for you to become a constant in sunghoon’s life.

you were a whirlwind of chaos and confidence, with your mismatched outfits, endless jokes, and unpredictable energy. where he was quiet, you were loud. where he was composed, you were messy.

and yet, he couldn’t imagine a day without you.

you made fun of his obsession with monochromatic outfits, teased him for being “too cool,” and somehow, you always knew how to make him laugh—even when he didn’t want to.

“so, what do you think?” you asked one day, holding up a floral skirt and a neon sweater.

sunghoon frowned. “i think i need a pair of sunglasses just to look at it.”

you gasped dramatically, clutching the clothes to your chest. “you wound me, park sunghoon.”

he smirked, throwing a pillow at you.

but beneath your teasing and chaotic energy, you had a way of grounding him.

it hit him hardest one night at a party, when someone made a rude comment about your body. before you could react, sunghoon was in front of you, his icy glare fixed on the guy.

“say that again,” he said, his voice low and dangerous.

the guy stammered, trying to backtrack, but sunghoon didn’t let him off easy.

as soon as the guy walked away, you touched his arm gently. “hoon, you didn’t have to do that.”

he turned to you, his gaze softening instantly. “yes, i did.”

later that night, as you sat beside him on your couch, he turned to you. “don’t ever let anyone make you feel less than perfect.”

your eyes softened, and for once, you didn’t have a teasing reply.

────── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ──────

it was late, and the two of you were lying on the living room floor, staring at the ceiling.

“hoon?”

“hm?”

“you’re staring at me again.”

he blinked, realizing he’d been caught.

“you just… you’re hard to look away from,” he said softly.

you snorted. “was that supposed to be smooth?”

he rolled his eyes. “i’m being serious.”

“oh, okay. carry on.”

he sighed, propping himself up on one elbow to look at you properly. “you’re not like anyone I’ve ever met.”

“yeah, we’ve established that. i’m chaotic and messy and all kinds of amazing.”

“you are,” he said, his voice quieter now. “you make me feel things i didn’t think i could feel. like… like it’s okay to be a little messy. like it’s okay to not have everything figured out.”

your eyes widened slightly, and he looked away, suddenly shy.

“you make me laugh, even when i don’t want to. you make me want to try things i’d never do otherwise. and you’re…” he trailed off, running a hand through his hair.

“hoon,” you interrupted, sitting up. “i’m dumb. please just say it.”

he let out a small laugh, shaking his head. “you’re impossible.”

“and yet, here you are. confessing your undying love for me.”

he smiled, soft and fond. “yeah, i guess i am.”

you grinned, leaning closer. “so say it properly.”

sunghoon reached out, tucking a curl behind your ear. his fingers lingered against your cheek, and his voice dropped to a whisper.

“i’m in love with you,” he said, the words carrying more weight than you expected. “every chaotic, mismatched, unpredictable part of you. i don’t want to imagine my life without you in it.”

you blinked, your heart skipping a beat.

“see?” you finally said, your voice wobbly but teasing. “was that so hard?”

he laughed softly, pulling you into his arms. “you’re lucky you’re cute.”

“i know,” you murmured against his chest, your smile wide.

and for the first time, park sunghoon felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be.

© all rights reserved | hsnlv 2024

[rafesgirl-14]

also another request, no pressure! but maybe a smutty fit with stepbro rafe x naive reader and she just does whatever he says!

A/n: hope you enjoy 💖

Warnings: oral (male receiving), dacryphilia, degrading, all 18+

Naive Girl

About two years ago, your mother had married Ward and ever since then you’d lived at Tannyhill. It had become a common habit for you to wait around Rafe’s room since then as he’d convinced you of how ‘mean’ everyone else in the family are and how they hide it.

Rafe walks in after his shower, his bottom half only covered by a towel and a smirk across his lips. He liked how dependent you were with him. Rafe had always found kook girls too demanding and he would’ve never thought of dating a pogue but you were perfect for him. He smirked at the sight of you in a matching pyjama shorts and tank top set, sitting on his bed like a present all wrapped up.

“Ray, I need y’help.” You say with an innocent smile. Everything about you was so damn innocent and Rafe loved that fact. “Pope asked me on a date f’tonight and I don’t know what to wear.”

“A pogue asked you out?” Rafe’s gaze darkened almost immediately, he knew was going to have to lay the manipulation on thick if he wanted to keep you as his. “Kid, y’know it’s probably not a good idea to be out so late, especially with a pogue, y’never know what could happen.”

“But Pope is sweet, he asked me out to this party down on the beach.” You attempt to defend, looking up at Rafe from your place on his bed. No matter how much he tried, you’d never see the bad in anyone. Rafe classed this as a curse and a godsend since you’d never question him.

“A party, kid? D’ya know how dangerous that is?” Rafe mocks cares. He didn’t care how dangerous a party with alcohol and all sorts of other substances, he cared about keeping you to himself. “Baby, ‘m looking out f’ya. I don’t wanna hear on the news tomorrow that my favourite little sister got drugged and murdered, ‘kay?”

“It wouldn’t go that far, Ray, I swear. ‘M old enough to take care of myself.” You whine, standing up to try and gain some level in this argument but it was a fruitless attempt.

“Hey, kid! Listen t’me, you’re not going to that party and you’re going to text that pogue that you won’t be seeing him again, understood?” Rafe says sternly, his index finger and thumb gripping at your plush cheeks. “Get your damn phone and text him now.”

You shyly reach for your phone, feeling bad as you go onto messages. You’d really wanted to go on this date and wished you’d just called one of your friends for outfit advice. ‘I’m sorry, Pope, I won’t be able to come tonight. I hope you still have fun with your friends tho 💖’ you send the text.

“Good girl. Now, y’gonna make it up to me after stressing me like this?” He smirks, resting a hand against your waist. Rafe knew you’d do anything to please him, that was your fatal flaw. “C’mon, baby, get on your knees f’me.”

Obediently, you crawl to rest on your knees in front of him. You can now clearly see the dent through the towel that covers his bottom half. You were far too innocent for your own good which gave Rafe the opportunity to use that innocence whenever he pleased. It all began when you told him that you’d never had your first kiss so he ‘kindly’ offered to teach you.

You look up at Rafe with big doe eyes and a naive smile as he tugged the towel off, leaving himself bare in front of you. Rafe knew damn well that you’d never be able to take all of him but he could still try and make you.

“Go on, baby, y’know what to do.” He smirks down at you as you shyly bring your lips around his cock. It all felt so vulgar but you did it nonetheless. You just wanted to make your stepbrother proud. Hesitantly, you begin trying to take a bit more at a time but it was clearly taking too long in Rafe’s opinion.

His fingers lace through your hair, pushing your head down to take more of him with a soft gag. You can’t protest due to having your mouthful even as you attempt to pull away slightly. Rafe was in control and he knew that.

“Such a dumb girl, can’t even take my cock without gagging like a little whore.” Rafe mocks with a smirk, beginning to just use your throat, “I thought my little sister was a good girl but I guess not. Bad girl.”

“R- Ray..” you try to mumble around how cock, feeling tears water at his words. Rafe knew you well enough that one way to make you a sobbing mess was a little degradation. He loved the sight of you crying over his cock.

“Shut up, this is what you get for thinking you can go on a date with a dirty pogue. You gotta learn your fuckin’ lesson.” Rafe practically growls, continuing to harshly use your throat, all he could hear was your soft gags and whimpers around his cock. He knew this was too much for you but couldn’t bring himself to care.

“It’s like you.. you’re asking f’this. Coming in ‘ere, practically begging me to ruin you. Be happy I’m not taking your pretty little ass over my lap.” He degrades, keeping a tight grip on your hair. With each rough thrust, he gets closer to coming. He can’t help himself as he lets out one more groan and suddenly you are tasting the familiar bitter taste.

“Fuckin’ swallow.” He snarls, pulling out of your mouth before you obediently swallow.

With big doe eyes, you look up at Rafe from your place on the ground in front of him. You part your lips as proof you’d swallowed, a little bit of the white liquid remaining on your lips. Your cheeks are stained with tears and your lips all puffy. Rafe can’t help himself from grabbing for his phone and getting a picture of the sight.

“You step out of line again and I’m sending this to those pogues, got it?” He smirks down at you, expression softening as you shakily nod. “C’mere, kid.” He smile slightly, gesturing for you to cuddle up with him on the bed. That was all it took for you to climb up on the bed with Rafe. You knew the moment he returns to calling you ‘kid’ then he’s in a good mood.

“Good girl.”

[kingkat12]

REQUEST

Roman, consensually (or not…) using his power on you to make you cum whenever he tells you to. & or threatens to in public, because he’s a dick like that

oh, this made my mind wheel turn like crazy... this was such a fucking sexy imagine, thank you for this request!!🌸🙈 i went a little off board and might actually have to revisit this idea, so don't be shocked if i elaborate some day tihi🥸💜

meeting vibrations (roman godfrey x reader)

WARNINGS: 18+, voyeurism, sex toys, upir!roman, mind control, Roman using his powers for no good

summary: being the CEO of Godfrey Industries, Roman's growing ego allows him to put you in the middle of his latest fantasy-- watching you squirm as he controls the vibrator inside you during one of his business meetings.

word count: 852

I couldn't believe I had said yes to be put in this situation-- I had never expected to rope myself into something so risky.

As I sat in Roman's office on his ridiculously comfortable couch, my legs gave in to a tremble which I tried to remedy by pressing my thighs together. I bit down on my lower lip with power I didn't know I had, balling my fists in my lap as I did my best to stay composed. He had a meeting going on, after all; there were about eight other businessmen in the room who thankfully hadn't noticed the buzzing of the vibrator between my legs. This was a new one-- I wasn't sure what it was called, but I knew it had a part which went inside of me and an outer part which sucked at my clit. 

My hands gripped the couch as I glanced towards Roman, who seemed occupied with the documents he had just been presented. He was very discreet about the controller he had tucked up his sleeve, and every time he pressed his wrist against the arm of his office chair, my vibrator went up a level. Roman had always been very good at hiding his emotions, and I knew that there was no way he'd be the one to slip up in this situation-- which is exactly why I had to keep my mouth shut. This was especially hard to do when I shifted in my seat; I realized the trembling I was suppressing in my legs was moving up into my hands as the vibrator shifted inside of me. Suddenly, it was pressed directly against my sweet spot, and my breath hitched as my walls fluttered around the device.

Roman's green eyes immediately found mine, sending me a stern look; I could practically hear him telling me to keep it down. He could read me better than anyone ever had, and I was convinced he knew how much I was struggling to stay contained and poised with the constant stimulation against my cunt. However, I knew this was the satisfying part for him-- watching me quietly writhing around in pleasure, the way my eyelids grew heavy as I held my breath, trying to keep down every little noise that begged to spill past my lips.

I was glad to keep his gaze, especially when Roman let slivers of a knowing smirk slip past his composed demeanor. He sat back in his chair with a comfortable manspread, running his fingers through his gelled hair with the same arm in which he had hidden the button to my vibrator. It felt like a tease, a show of power, and everything about it served as a reminder that he could make my situation a lot worse in an instant. He had to look away from the squirming mess I had become on the couch to answer a question from one of his associates, and I realized I had been holding my breath. 

Once again, I wondered why I had said yes to this-- Why had I allowed Roman to do this to me? If he hadn't convinced me while we were having sex yesterday, I was sure I would've at least found some sort of compromise? Everything about this was insanely risky; if the businessmen somehow found out, if one of them suddenly pointed out the buzzing sound coming from his blushing girlfriend, the both of us would be absolutely screwed. 

It only got worse when I shifted once more, my heart thudding hard in my chest as the vibrator pressed up even closer to my clit, the vibrations making me let out a shaky breath. The shaking of my leg returned, no matter how much I fought it-- I inwardly begged for mercy from all the possible deities in the world to keep the businessmen from turning around and seeing my wrecked state. My pleading eyes found Roman's, watching him suppress his devilish smirk against the palm of his hand to hide it from his associates. 

I could reconcile with my stupidity and the way I had agreed to this, but I definitely couldn't forgive myself for not remembering my one rule during any of our risky sexcapades-- don't look into his eyes for too long. It was definitely not the smartest thing to do when your boyfriend was a upir capable of literal mind-control. 

It didn't take long before it became impossible to look away from Roman's green gaze; this was the first sign that he had roped me in, ready to utilize his powers. Everything about it caught me off guard-- I had never expected him to do it with other people in the room or in public. 

Nonetheless, I should've expected it from him. My nails dug into the couch as I swallowed a choked moan, crossing my legs as Roman tilted his head down, staring at me through his brows with his green eyes dripping with absolute power.

It was impossible to look away, and Roman didn't have to utter a single word for my body to comply with his mind-control orders; cum. 

[fbfh]

Sweet Pea x soft!reader hcs

wc: 1.3k

genre: mutual pining, tooth rotting fluff

pairing: sweet pea x soft reader

warnings: reader is implied to be smaller than sweet pea but he's like 6'3 and beefy so it's not too out of the question, reader is called clingy needs attention and hates being alone by jughead but sweet pea LOVES that about you, size difference, protective sweet pea, sweet pea is a rottweiler boyfriend, kisses and cuddles, mentions of fighting and gang activity

song recs: fight for me - heathers obc, big boy - sza

a/n: been watching the anime my love story and it's feuling my sweet pea obsession lol. I've also decided that while horribly bad, riverdale is camp. If I convince myself it's camp I can drag myself through it. It's supposed to be bad and make no sense and of course there's a "goblin king" running around town causing problems because it's camp.

tags: @yesv01 @magcon7280

Okay so like I said in my initial drabble

When Sweet Pea first sees you he deadass thinks you’re an angel

You are so sweet and soft and perfect

The only way to describe you is angelic

He’s so wrapped up in how alluring and enamoring you are that he doesn’t notice you’re just as drawn to him

You immediately see past his gorgeous and intimidating exterior to the soft great big heart inside him

You see all his good traits and you’re not scared off that he’s a little rough around the edges

But Sweet Pea sees that you’re not rough around the edges

And he doesn’t want you to become that way

Especially not because of him

He feels so protective over you from day one

Even though he’s fighting his obvious feelings for you and ignoring your obvious feelings for him, he still tries to look out for you

Keeps an eye on you a little, just to make sure no one’s giving you any trouble

You’re friends with Betty so you’re sort of tied to the serpents already, but he doesn’t want to drag you any deeper into gang life than you already are

So he tries not to fall any harder for you than he already has

Even though Jughead is always bringing you up, telling him that Betty says you’ve been asking after him

He can’t even process that Jughead just said you’ve been asking after him and about him a lot because of how Jughead keeps describing you

He says you’re sort of clingy and need a lot of attention, that you get nervous in crowds and you’re really touchy and hate being alone 

That’s why your last boyfriend broke up with you

But the more Jughead talks about you and your apparent flaws, the more perfect you sound to Sweet Pea

You’re exactly what he’s been dreaming of

Someone he can go all in with, someone who wants him and needs him as much as he wants you and needs you

Which is obviously a lot

And now it’s getting harder and harder to listen to that logical voice that tells him he’s no good for you, that you deserve someone from northside who can take good care of you and not drag you into any more chaos than you’re already surrounded by 

But you’ve been writing his name in your diary over and over for weeks now, and it’s really just a matter of time before you end up together 

All your friends know this

Betty and Jughead and Toni know this

Even Fangs knows this

Everyone knows but you and Sweet Pea

You both still think it’s an unreciprocated pipe dream

Something to imagine scenarios about before you fall asleep

You’re more alike than you realize 

But soon you find your way to each other

You just can’t stay away anymore

And once you’re together, once you’re finally in his arms, neither of you ever want to let go

Sweet Pea is an amazing boyfriend to begin with

But especially when it comes to someone as soft and sweet and precious as you?????

He’s literally the best person you could ever hope for

He’s a classic rottweiler boyfriend 

AND he’s a gang boyfriend

Plus Sweet Pea’s just naturally a very protective person to the people he loves

So you can guarantee you’ll be safe with him

He won’t hesitate to stare down anyone he thinks looks at you too long

But he’s not going to start shit with you around unless he has to

If he does need to fight someone, he’s going to make sure you’re not there to see it

Even if he has to ask Betty or Veronica or Fangs to drag you into the other room and stay with you until it’s over

He doesn’t want you to see him like that

But he knows how to hold his own, and Fangs and Toni both reassure you there’s not a fight he hasn’t been able to walk away from

You’re always there to patch him up afterwards too

You touch him so gently

With more love and care and tenderness than he’s ever gotten from anyone before

It makes it kind of impossible to regret sticking up for you

Even if he did walk away with some nasty scratches and a black eye

You’re still not scared of him

You don’t judge him

Like at all

He always makes you feel so safe around him 

All he’s wanted for a while is someone to go all in with

Someone to protect, someone to take care of

Someone who needs him

And you do 

You spend more and more nights together before finally confessing that you can’t really sleep without him anymore

When I tell you his heart explodes when you say that?????

God as if you couldn’t get him wrapped even tighter around your finger

Surprise! Yes you can

He dips you a lot too

Mostly because he’s so tall and it’s so easy and it makes you so nervous when he pulls you close and leans over you like that

It makes you all dizzy and he talks so close to your face for a few moments before finally kissing you

GOD it makes your head spin

You can’t get enough

And he can’t get enough of the way you look up at him all soft and sweet

Like you’re not scared of him

Which you’re not

It’s still kind of new for him

But it’s something he really hopes he can get used to

He’s touchy too

He pulls you into his lap and rests his head on your shoulder a lot

Or wraps his arms around yours

Don’t even get me started on holding his big old hands with both of yours

It makes his stomach flip every single time

And SO MANY FOREHEAD KISSES

You kiss his neck and jaw a lot too

Mostly because it’s all you can reach half the time

And because you know it drives him completely crazy

If you ever worried about getting unwanted attention from guys, you don’t have to anymore

EVERYBODY knows you’re Sweet Pea’s 

And EVERYBODY knows not to fuck with him

Sweet Pea can be fucking terrifying when he wants to

Which makes things like him pinning you to the couch and tickling you until you tap out and you’re both blushing giggly wrecks even cuter  

You completely and totally have scary boyfriend privileges 

And you take such good care of him too

He really doesn’t think he’s ever been this happy and content and at peace

His friends can easily attest to the fact that they’ve never seen him this happy either

And your friends have never seen you this happy too 

Over all, you’re really just a fantastic match

You become the emotional support couple of riverdale high so fast

People get used to seeing him walk you to classes he doesn’t even have 

Seeing you ride around town on the back of his motorcycle together 

Because you belong together

You really do

Sweet Pea might not know what the future is going to look like

He might not know what’s going to happen tomorrow

But the only thing he does know about his future is that you’re going to be in it

And he’s going to be in yours

You’re starting to make him dream about a soft domestic life away from gangs and murder and conspiracies

He doesn’t know if that’s practical or attainable, but he hopes it is

Until then, he’s more than happy just getting to be around you

Getting to see you all the time and wake up next to each other on the weekends

He loves loving you, he loves keeping you safe and happy

Just like you love him and keep him happier than he’s ever been

Just being with you is more than enough

[eternalartblock]

overanalyzing kyoko's letter because i have nothing better to do

im having a fucking field day out here.

so in case anyone reading this is unaware, campyfire recently dropped these:

there is a LOT to unpack here. i am losing it over the namedrop but i would mainly like to focus on psychoanalyzing kyoko because. i mean this is her letter, plus in context it wasnt really meant to be read by anyone other than herself, so its likely that shes being pretty damn genuine here. which means i get to look at it and read into it and convince myself even further that she is!!! not okay!!!!!!

We hope your adventures haven’t taken you too far.

“we” is likely referring to the rest of her family, so theyre probably alive and present. which is good because i would actually kill someone if she lost her sister and had literally no one else. i really hope they gave her some support at some point because it seems like she really needs it

Since you’ve been on your journey, I've decided to become an adventurer, just like you!

becoming an adventurer is a lot. leaving home and letting go of your old life is a lot. and kyoko did that because it was something her sister liked to do, because it made her look strong and brave and she wanted to be like her. she mustve really, really looked up to her :(((

…I was scared at first, but talking with them made me happy… really happy.

ok hold up. she was scared??? while she does seem scared for them, shes never appeared to be scared of them, so… why? maybe its because they just come off as intimidating to everyone? it could be like how several npcs in the manor thought they looked off. but that was after she first met them, plus they were definitely a doing a lot better back when they only had one sword. i personally think this might be hinting at some kind of attachment and/or vulnerability issues? idk it REALLY seems like shes got some shit going on, especially because of how she lets you vent about your problems but immediately changes the subject once she mentions hers in her manor dialogue. still not normal about that btw.

Things are weighing down on them though, I didn’t want to trouble them…

shes clearly worried about being a burden to player while theyve got so much going on. even though she has literally let them vent to her. while she ALSO had some shit going on. dont get me wrong, i get why she'd think that way, player IS visibly going through it and they dont need more things to worry about. but it would probably be worth it to at least ask if theyd be ok with listening to her talk about everything. theyre her friend, and theyve got quite a few things in common. they would understand.

I shouldn't give up. I know you're out there, so I'm going to be just like you and never stop trying.

aughhhh fuckkkkkk

the thing about having a loved one go missing is that anything could have happened to them. there so many horrible ways for calypso to have gone out, especially since kyoko has ZERO IDEA where she could have gone. and yet, she chooses to believe that shes still out there somewhere, because she knows her sister, and she knows that shes stronger than that. and she wouldnt leave her.

also consider: calypso's an adventurer. it would be normal to not hear from her for a while. so imagine how long it took for her family to even realize something was wrong. calypso has been gone for a very long time.

im glad kyoko's at least coping somehow... still think she should open up a bit, but its better than nothing. i really want her to get the support she needs, because shes clearly going through a lot, despite how cheerful she might appear. also i wanna know more about calypso, it seems like she was super cool.

anyways kyoko is the best and most well written block tales character. thank you for coming to my ted talk

[to-be-a-dreamer]

Okay so I'm from the Newsies fandom which means I know how to make character backstories out of literally nothing and I'm done with my "This makes no sense what were the writers thinking?" stage of grief after the BuckTommy breakup and it's time to go to work and start asking "What could have happened to make this make sense?".

Because regardless of what you think about Tommy, it's very clear that the writers have characterized him (in the current stage of his life) as someone who has put in a lot of work to become a better person, is a very steady figure, and feels very confident in himself and his identity. We've also been told and shown that he and Buck care for each other a lot and neither of them wanted this relationship to end. So the question is, what happened in Tommy's past that could have caused this very confident, mature person to realize he's falling in love with his partner and then choose to leave?

"I'm your first, not your last."

How many times has Tommy been someone's first? How many times has he shown another man this new side of himself, taught them what it means to be queer and how to love yourself for it, and been left behind once they figured themselves out? How many times has he been someone's first and had a whirlwind romance, only to be left brokenhearted because his partners had a whole new world opened up to them only to realize they didn't want Tommy to be a part of that world?

Does Tommy think of himself as the guy people have fun with, not the guy they want to marry? Does Tommy think there's something wrong with him, that there's a reason no one ever sees a future with him? Do you think he's always told himself that he would keep trying, that it's worth the potential heartbreak to find out if this next guy might be the one who stays?

Did the way Buck was talking about their relationship being transformative for him just sound too familiar? Did he think Buck liked him because he was showing him something new, not because he could ever actually love someone like Tommy? Do you think he could never imagine Buck liking him anywhere near as much as Tommy liked him?

Do you think he realized he was falling in love with Buck, and the idea of losing him like all the others was just too much? Do you think he knew the potential heartbreak of someone as incredible as Buck deciding he didn't want Tommy in his future wasn't worth it this time? Do you think he was afraid of falling in love with Buck, of falling so deeply in love that he wouldn't be able to recover when Buck left him like all the others? Do you think he decided it was better to break things off with Buck before he could finish falling in love with him?

Do you think they could come back from this? That maybe, just maybe, if Tommy told Buck about all of his fears that he could convince Tommy that it is worth it to find out if they could make it?

"I'm not the guy people decide to spend their life with. They- you'll finish figuring yourself out and realize you don't want a future with me. And that's okay, I just... I don't want to let myself finish falling in love with you first because I won't survive losing you after that."

"Do you think that little of me? That I'm just using you for my own personal gain and that I'll leave you in the dust as soon as I get what I want?"

"I... No. No, I don't think you would do that."

"Then give us a chance. Let me show you that this is more than just an awakening for me. Let me prove that I want to finish falling in love with you too."

Because I think that's what Tommy's afraid of. He's a person who's spent a lot of time self-reflecting and he knows himself so well, especially his faults. I think he’s afraid of Buck seeing all of those faults and realizing he doesn’t love Tommy as much as he thought he did. Loving someone means you see every part of them and want to be with them anyways.

I think Tommy is terrified of falling in love with someone because he can't imagine anyone loving him back.

[therantspot]

we need to talk about sring venka rn. it's very important. so tw: rape, sexism, suicide, and war violence. also the entire trilogy spoilers. continue on your own volition. this is gonna be long af :)

she's one of the strongest people in this godsforsaken series.

and I'm not just talking about the fact that she survived days upon days of rape and seeing other girls around her being used and killed in the cruelest ways, which that in itself should've been enough to break her (the only other two survivors literally drank bleach bc they couldn't survive it) ESPECIALLY in the society she lived in. where the patriarchy is still in rule and girls weren't good if they'd been "used". another rape victim was convinced they should both die ffs. bc even if they didn't want it and it was the worst thing they'd survived they should be ashamed of it. it wasn't their fault, but the world would make them think it was. THAT is one of the worst things anyone can go through.

and venka pushed through it. not without suffering, even if we're not shown more than glances at it. she pushed through it even when she had to "get creative" at an abortion, and then her father didn't even try to understand. her family was part of that society that told her she was wasted goods now, and she bared her teeth at them and dared them to try her again.

she was never supposed to be a soldier. she fought for that too. she would've been a lady in someone's state, but she defied the norms in her family and got them to let her become what she wanted. that takes courage, with the norms that she was supposed to follow. she was supposed to be just a pretty face, but she decided she could be that with fangs and claws as well. she took no bullshit and handled business and people like that. she went to battle with a bright red lip on. she was brash and had no mercy bc the world had shown her none of that once she stepped on the battlefield.

sure she started off as a spoiled princess but she died a fucking general.

and I wanna talk about her death too. or the unanswered revelation we get before it.

I'm ngl, I suspected her at the beginning of the burning god. there were too many coincidences. and yet I liked her too much, so I gaslighted myself. she'd come too far. and yet... idk what I believe, not fully at least. was she the mole? idk. she could've been, but the more k think about it the more it makes sense and doesn't at the same time.

nezha knew a lot, that's true. she survived in the anvil when they probably should've executed her, idc how persuasive she could've been. but if she was nezha's spy, out to kill Rin, why wouldn't she tell him about the bond between kitay and rin? why would she suffer through the anvil and the south, and the tikany bombing when she could've stayed in arlong?

so idk if she was a mole, even if rins accusations I thought of as well. idk if she was behind the weirdly feminine character letters. I do know she didn't want to kill Rin, she truly was her friend. she loved her.

sring venka was one of the best generals rin could have appointed to lead the nation if she'd been in the right mind to actually do it herself. and I'm so sorry she didn't get to impose castration as punishment for sexual abuse

[ms-hunter59]

double agent - Scaramouche x reader (lowkey freaky but not smut!)

Summary:

After ambushing the wrong person, you find yourself in a precarious situation - locked up by the Balladeer because he's convinced you're a spy for the Resistance. Since you have nothing better to do with your life, you decide to mess with him a bit.

* * * * *

Rain falls upon me in heavy sheets. It soaks through my hair, through my ragged clothes, but it does nothing to stifle the overwhelming heat within me. It’s become a familiar heat at this point, a mix of anger, tension and an overly passionate need to prove the whole world wrong.

I don’t care what anyone thinks of me. They call me a thief? Can’t deny it one bit. Street rat? Where else am I supposed to go. Murderer? Guilty as charged. I’m far past the point of worrying about the opinions of the people who used to know me, let alone strangers. They can’t pretend to care now, not when they left me in the dust when I needed their help the most.

I crouch a little lower behind the thick bush, not that anyone could really see me in this downpour anyway. I usually target the merchant carts heading towards Inazuma City. Not food, not necessities, but things like luxury silk or jewelry. I only take a bit each time, enough for me to get the money I need without getting too greedy with it. I don’t claim to be fair when it comes to stealing, as I’m sure I’ve taken things from good people as well as the bad ones. But I can’t afford to starve to death when there are still people roaming this planet that haven’t paid for their crimes. Crimes infinitely worse than I could ever commit.

Rain is the perfect weapon to use alongside my cryo Vision. How I’ve managed to avoid the clutches of the Vision Hunt Decree, I have no idea, but I have. After all, if I did get caught, I’d be in trouble for a lot more than just owning a Vision. But so far I’ve been lucky, and ever since I moved my territory out of Inazuma City directly, I’ve had far fewer run-ins with any guards.

But even then, I've been struggling lately. Merchants have been travelling with guards in tow, and I have a feeling it might be because of me. A cart and a single merchant is fine, but it gets trickier when there are people trained to fight in the equation. I'd only be asking for trouble if I tried to attack a whole squad like that.

I catch some movement in the corner of my eye, and a person comes into view. Despite their short stature, I realise it's a man, and not a child either. By the looks of his attire, I doubt he's a simple farmer or a fisherman, especially with a hat like that.

I'd like a hat like that. Once it stops raining, I could sell it for a hefty price. It looks fancy enough.

I scope the area, but when I see there's no one else in sight, I make my move. I'm quick on my feet, the rain muffling my steps as I jump over the bush and sneak up on the man from behind. The blade of my knife presses against his neck, and I can feel him tense against me.

“Give me everything you have,” I murmur into his ear. “The hat too.”

The man doesn't argue, doesn't say a word, but he doesn't move either. My face twitches in frustration. I'm used to seeing people tremble, beg for mercy, but now it's as if I've stopped him just to ask for the time.

“Now,” I say, my tone harsher. “I’m not gonna repeat myself.”

“You're joking, right?” he finally says, not a hint of fear in his voice. He sounds more bored than anything. My frown deepens, and I shift my grip on the knife's handle.

“I'm not joking,” I snap. To my surprise, the man lets out a dry laugh.

“Then you're more pathetic than I thought.” Before I can react, he grabs my wrist, twists it, and slams me against a nearby tree trunk. He pins my hands above my head, practically crushing my bones to make me drop the knife. I stifle a painful groan. He presses my own blade against my throat.

He looked so harmless…

“I'd call you brave if you weren't so incredibly stupid,” he says, his lips curling into a mocking snarl. “Ambushing me like this, you’ve really got some nerve.”

I scoff. Why is he acting like his importance rivals the Shogun or something? He’s probably nothing but a spoiled rich boy who likes to think his existence has great meaning in this world.

His eyes narrow at my scoff, and I feel the blade scrape the surface of my skin. He pulls my scarf off my face, his gaze running over my features. He’s surprisingly strong for his size, though I guess people could say the same about me.

“You’ve been following me, haven’t you?” he says. “I saw you in that little village this morning.”

This makes me pause. “Wait, what? No, I haven’t–”

“Don’t waste your breath.”

“I genuinely have no idea–”

“You think I wouldn’t notice, huh? I’m honestly offended. What kind of idiot do you take me for?”

I begin to realise that I would really be wasting my breath arguing with him. For some reason, this weirdo is convinced I’m stalking him, and since I was in that village this morning, I don’t exactly have an excuse that could change his mind.

“No counterargument? I was wondering how long you’d last,” he says in mock disappointment.

“There’s nothing I can say. You caught me,” I reply, managing a small shrug as my wrists are still pinned above me. If he’s so paranoid as to think he has people following him, I might as well mess with him a bit.

Either he’ll kill me now, or later. It makes no difference to me.

He frowns, confused by my sudden acceptance of defeat. My lips twitch into a smile. “You know, you’re not exactly hard to follow. You stand out like a snowman on a hot summer’s day with that big ass hat–”

My jeering is short-lived when he lets out a scoff, raises his arm, and with one swift movement, my whole world goes black.

* * *

I come to my senses, only to find myself restrained by heavy chains wrapped around my whole body. My head is pounding in a way that reminds me of the last time someone had knocked me out like this, and I try to swallow the dry feeling in my mouth.

It takes me a moment to realise that, despite trying to open my eyes, I can’t see a thing. It seems as if I’ve been blindfolded by my own scarf, and I begin to wonder what could that angry little man possibly want with me. I’m as valuable as an old shoe, if even that.

“Good, you’re awake,” a voice calls out, one that I can vaguely match to the guy’s face. His footsteps approach my helpless body on the cold stone floor, and I feel him nudge me with the tip of his boot. “Sit up,” he commands, leaving no room for argument.

Since he notices my inability to push myself up into an upright position, he grabs the chain and yanks me upwards. I grunt, shifting into a not so comfortable and completely vulnerable position. “A blindfold? Really?” I say, which makes him huff. He pulls it off my head, letting the room around us come into view.

It looks nothing better than a prison cell, only much more spacious. More like a storage room of sorts, now meant to store me. There’s no natural light, no windows, no way to escape other than the door behind him.

What kind of nutcase did I run into?

My gaze meets his, the torchlight making him appear much more menacing than before. His arms are crossed over his chest, and he left his silly hat in the corner of the room. Maybe my taunting had gotten to him.

“Who do you work for?” he asks, his tone firm. I was planning on chit-chatting a bit, but clearly he wants to get straight into it.

“None of your business,” I respond. I have no idea where my courage is coming from, but all I know is that if I don’t keep up this brave front, I’ll lose my fucking mind.

“You can’t work alone, that wouldn’t make any sense, so I can only assume you were sent by the Resistance. Or perhaps your loyalties don’t lie with Inazuma at all.”

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” I say, which earns me a sharp slap across my left cheek. My head flies to the side, and I let out a short breath. My head isn’t exactly in perfect condition after being knocked out so violently, so I have a feeling I might start seeing stars soon.

“I don’t have time for your remarks. If you want me to kill you, just say so. It’ll save me a lot of trouble,” he replies. “If you don’t answer me honestly, I won’t hesitate to rid the world of excessive scum like you.”

“Ask away, then,” I say, tilting my head at him. He hums, and after a short pause, he begins to circle around me in a slow, almost predatory manner.

“What’s your mission?”

“I was told to find out more about you.”

“I’m surprised they even know I’m here.”

“They know a lot more than you think,” I reply. I have no clue who they are, but they’re clearly a threat to him. Maybe he really thinks I’m with the Resistance.

“What else do they know about me?” he asks, stopping right in front of me. He crouches down to meet at eye level.

“Sorry, confidential information.”

“It can’t be confidential if it’s about me. Go on, spit it out. You’ve been doing so good so far.”

“Then tell me something about yourself and I’ll tell you if I know it or not,” I say.

He lets out a snort, shaking his head. “I’m not sure that would work. It would benefit you a lot more than me.”

“Well, I have short term memory loss, so it’s not like I’d even remember anything to bring back,” I reply. He raises an eyebrow, amused by my comment.

“Really? So, if I, I don’t know, broke your finger right now, you wouldn’t even remember it in a few minutes?”

“What?”

His smirk widens. My smile drops. A disturbing crack fills the air as he grabs my index finger and twists it at an ungodly angle. Something between a yelp and a whimper escapes my lips and I bite my tongue to suppress the urge to scream. The pain is instant, spreading through my whole hand like a disease.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” I snap, my breathing heavy. “You just broke my finger!”

“What an astute observation. Good thing they made you a spy and not someone else, right?” he sneers, pushing himself up to his feet. “I’m sure they’re mourning your loss greatly.”

The door behind him slams open, revealing a masked man dressed in all red, bearing some sort of fire gun. I have a feeling I’ve seen soldiers dorning that attire before, and it doesn’t take me long to add two and two together. The revelation sends an uneasy shiver down my spine.

This man works for the Fatui. And judging by the way the soldier addresses him, I doubt he’s just some lowly recruit.

“Sorry to interrupt, sir, but they want your approval on the newest batch for delivery,” the soldier says, giving him a salute. The man stands up, sparing me one last glance before turning to the door.

“Send someone to watch her for now,” he says. “We’ll talk later.”

“Wait, so you’re…?” I trail off, hoping he’d fill in the blank without me looking like I have no clue who he is. He eyes me once again, but responds without much hesitation.

“The Balladeer, yes.”

“Like, as in one of the Harbingers?” I ask. I’m praying that my deduction is correct, otherwise I have no idea how the Fatui works and why they would give everyone random mysterious nicknames.

“Are you stupid?” he replies. His responses shouldn’t surprise me at this point, but they still do. I blink.

“What?”

“I don’t have time for this right now. Shut up or I’ll have to gag you.”

I watch, perplexed, as he picks up his hat and storms out of the room. The soldier and I exchange a glance, though I can’t read his expression through his mask. He’s probably used to that lunatic, but even then I can feel the fear seeping out of him. He calls for two more soldiers, ordering them to never let me out of their sight, and he departs as well.

* * *

Feeding the Balladeer lies is, as it turns out, way easier than I expected. It doesn’t take me long to construct a fake identity thanks to his constant questioning. Living on the streets has taught me a thing or two about good acting, and he seems completely oblivious to the fact that not a single word that has come out of my mouth has been the truth. If I tried hard enough, I could probably convince him I’m the Raiden Shogun’s long lost sibling. Not that it would benefit me in any way.

For some reason, I’ve agreed to help him. His interrogation has led me to the information that the Fatui have plans to distribute these things called Delusions amongst the masses, and all I could hear from his words was business and money.

He calls me from my cell to his makeshift office in the Delusion factory one day. I can’t really complain about being held hostage like this – I’m warm, energised, and not exactly starving either. At least him keeping me here gives me the chance to get some scoop on the Fatui, something that might come in handy once I escape.

I knock on the door and he swings it open in an instant, a scowl on his face. “I called for you five minutes ago, what took you so long?” he snaps, letting me inside. I shrug.

“Your soldiers are quite chatty.”

“Which one?”

“Why? So you know who to kill?”

“I see you’re learning fast.”

He beckons me over to his desk and sits down, dipping his pen into a nearby inkpot. Not much of a time waster, I see. I settle myself on top of the desk by his right hand, amused by how he doesn’t even bother to hide the twitch of his eye. I take great pleasure in pissing him off, and he hasn’t even hurt me after the first time. Not only that, he even ordered one of his men to tend to my injury. My finger is now being held together by a sturdy stick, wrapped around in gauze.

“So, tell me everything you know again so I can write it down,” he says, spreading out a sheet of paper in front of him. I cross my legs and give him a puzzled look.

“Why can’t I just write it?”

“Because you’d have shit handwriting.”

“You don’t even know what my handwriting looks like.”

“You have a broken finger, dumbass.”

“I’m left-handed, dumbass.”

He shoots up and drops the pen onto the paper, splattering ink all over it. He runs me over with his gaze, taking a step closer until my knees are pressed against his stomach. To my astonishment, he pulls my legs apart and stands between them, just to get up in my face even more. “You really think you’re invincible, don’t you? Just because I haven’t killed you yet doesn’t mean I won’t,” he seethes.

I push down the fluttering feeling in my stomach as his hands don’t leave their place on my knees. “Why haven’t you, though?” I reply, my voice lower than usual. His eyes look like they’re trying to pierce a hole through my head.

“Why haven’t I?”

“Yeah, why haven’t you?” I repeat.

He lets out a small scoff. “Not to inflate your ego, but you’re too interesting to kill… at least now.”

“Oh? So you’ll get bored of me someday?” I say, cocking my head to the side. He follows the movement, his eyes tracing my face, landing on my lips before he meets my gaze again.

“Definitely. Unless you prove to be useful.”

I hum. His proximity makes my skin tingle with a heat I’m not familiar with. “How? By telling you all my secrets?”

“Or other ways. I’m sure I can figure something out for you,” he replies, his face growing dangerously closer to mine.

“So that means you’ll keep me here forever, then? Won’t I get on your nerves too much?”

“You won’t as long as you shut up once in a while,” he says, his eyes narrowed. My smile widens.

“I’m not sure I can promise that.”

“Just give it a try.”

“What?”

“Shut up.”

I bite back a laugh. “Make me.”

His lips slam against mine with such force I nearly lose my balance on the edge of the desk, but he catches me, tangling one hand in the back of my hair, the other gripping my knee. I take in a sharp breath and my eyelids flutter shut, returning the kiss with just as much force. My heart pounds against my ribcage, so much so I fear it might burst out of my chest and jump into his.

He doesn’t let me go up for air, doesn’t even let me form a coherent thought as his tongue slips past my lips. His hand slides down from my hair to my hip, pulling me closer to him, letting me wrap one of my legs around his waist. He might be small, but I’m no giant either, and right now his presence towers over me in a way that makes me want him exponentially more.

He nips at my bottom lip, making me produce a small, pathetic whimper, crumbling my cocky attitude in an instant. He grips my clothes like the mere thought of them insults him. My hands slide up his chest to wrap around his neck, the last drop of sanity within me making sure I don’t hurt my finger even more.

He pulls away. His hand goes back up to my hair, pulling my head to the side to give him access to my neck. “You make me sick,” is the only thing he says before he dives in, his lips finding the sensitive skin on my neck. It’s like he’s fighting himself, his deepest desires against his better judgement.

I let out a small chuckle. “You must really love your enemies if this is how you show your hatred.”

“I thought I told you to shut up.” He bites my neck, making me gasp.

“Don’t act like you don’t love the sound of my voice.”

“I wasn’t kidding about that gag.”

“I bet you’d get off on seeing me tied up and gagged,” I reply. He raises his head from my neck, a small smirk on his lips.

“So would you, freak.” His mouth finds mine once more, and the more I kiss him, the more I’m grateful for the fact I wanted to mug him for his stupid ass hat in the first place.

[roundnroundseal]

You Are Loved

When Blane wakes up, he feels like he’s been hit with a truck. His eyes are stuffy, and he can’t stop sneezing. His throat is sore and a coughing fit attacks him out of nowhere. At least he doesn’t have work today.

He looks at his phone, and realizes Alice texted him earlier. Just reading her name gives him some temporary relief, and a small smile forms on his lips.

Alice: dropping by today around noon to return your book! i’ll probably be taking the sequel with me <3

Multiple thoughts began to race through his head. The first being how happy he is that he gets to see Alice. Immediately followed with that he cannot let her see him like this. And the last being the realization that he overslept and Blane only had so much time to look less like he just rolled out of bed.

Through the sneezes, he manages to look a bit more presentable than when he first woke. Not a moment too soon, he hears a knock.

“Blane!” Alice gives him a smile. She reaches for his hand and gives it a squeeze, “You were right, I did love this book. Thanks for recommending it.”

“Glad you liked it.” Blane attempts to hide his hoarse voice.

“Huh? Are you alright? You sound… off.” Alice looks at him with concern.

“I’m fine-“ A sneeze interrupts Blane’s sentence.

“You’re sick.”

“No. It’s just a sneeze.”

“You sound terrible.”

“It’s nothing.”

Alice sighs. Of course he won’t make this easy. She crosses her arms, and looks at him dead in the eye.

“Ok then… if you aren’t sick. Then give me a kiss.”

“What?”

“You never regret my request for a kiss.”

Alice closes the distance between them, and Blane immediately takes a step back.

“What? Worried that you could get me sick if I kissed you?”

Blane freezes, and Alice smirks at her victory.

“Alright. Knowing you, you haven’t eaten or drank enough water. Go take a nap. I’m not as good of a cook as Kai, but I got a great sick day soup recipe. And I’ll ask if someone can bring medicine.”

Before Blane could protest, Alice takes his hand and leads him towards his room.

“W-what are you-” Blane bites his lip, “Don’t you have plans with Arden today?” A last ditch effort. Blane knows it’s fruitless, but he can’t bring himself to accept Alice’s care so easily.

“The love of my life is in a losing battle at the moment, Arden wouldn’t mind rescheduling.” Alice pauses, thinking of how she could convince Blane that she genuinely wants to take care of him, “Blane, if it were the other way around and I was sick out of my mind, would you have just left me to take care of myself?”

“…No. I would stay until I knew you were better.”

————————————————————————

Blane would have never thought in a million years that he would be in a position where having five people over while he is feeling terrible would be a memory he would cherish forever. When Alice sent a text to their group chat, asking if anyone had the time to drop off medicine for Blane, it had become a job that had suddenly required four people.

“You knew they would all drop by once they heard I was sick.” Blane looks at Alice with an amused smile.

Alice laughs in response, “Of course I did.” The usual mischievous glint in her eyes disappear, and her eyes soften.

“Blane. We care about you, and want to be here for you if you ever needed anything. You’re important to all of us. Especially to me.”

Blane feels his cheeks heat up. Whether it be her lighthearted jokes, or intimate moments like these, Alice just radiates a natural warmth. Alice notices Blane blushing, and can’t help but smile knowing he took his words to heart. Blane curses his illness, because he wants nothing more than to pull her close and show her how much she means to him.

Their conversation gets interrupted with a knock on the door, signaling their friends’ arrival.

“Ok, Rekner. I have had to cancel my exciting plans of binge watching my favorite show with my best friend. And the only way you can make it up to me is if you hurry up and get better.” Arden places a small box on the counter, “Your favorite tea leaves. If this doesn’t help then nothing will.”

“I disagree, Arden!” Rylan holds up a small jar, “The true cure to all diseases! Vicks VapoRub! I swear Blane, when my parents used this on me I don’t think I even need the supernatural healing to get better quick.”

“You know, I was going to use magic to speed up your recovery, but I think Alice has almost nursed you back to health. I did prepare some food though. And a few books to read if you need to pass the time.” Kai puts the container in the fridge and the books on Blane’s table.

“Everyone got so caught up in what they wanted to bring you, that we almost forgot what Alice originally asked for.” Nikolas says with a laugh, “Here, medicine and some tissues.”

They don’t stay long, knowing Blane needs his rest. But they all give their wishes that he gets better soon. Alice also plans to head out with everyone, content that Blane has everything he needs.

“Alice, thank you.” Blane says as she is about to head out the door.

Thank you for taking care of me. Thank you for bringing everyone here. Thank you for being the warmth that I didn’t know I needed. Thank you for reminding me that I am loved.

He can’t find the confidence to say it all directly. But it doesn’t matter, because Alice heard it all.

“Anytime.” She smiles at him once more and his heart skips a beat, “But once you’re all better, remember you owe me a kiss.”

[bi-bard]

Gathering Flowers in the Light of the Sun - Hannibal Lecter Imagine [NBC's Hannibal]

Title: Gathering Flowers in the Light of the Sun

Pairing: Hannibal Lecter X Reader

Word Count: 1,201 words

Warning(s): none

Summary: [Pre-Show] (Y/n) is given the chance to fulfill an order from an important regular. And that order marks the beginning of a tale of love, loss, tragedy, and learning just how cruel the human race can become.

Author's Note: Here it is!! The first part of the remake of my Hannibal OC!! Wahoo!!

Also, I got really into Greek mythology while working on the "new" OCs, so... be prepared for that. It will keep coming up, I promise.

MORE OF THIS OC (AND OTHERS)

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

When I first met Hannibal Lecter, I found myself to be incredibly curious about him.

I was mostly surprised that he came into the store himself. Even in my brief time in the store, I had grown to expect people's assistants more than anything else. Especially when that person was someone of Hannibal's reputation.

My boss spoke highly of the man. About his care for presentation when it concerned dinner parties of any size.

Meeting the man was more intimidating than my interview for this job had been.

It was my first few weeks. I was dealing with some worry over my lack of professional experience in the field when my boss told me about the client coming in. She had explained it as being a chance to prove myself. In her words, no one needed to be convinced of my skill than I did.

My only experience before this shop had been with my mother. While that work spanned most of my life up to that point, it was hardly the education and formal experience that I had heard so many people talk about. Rambling on and on about it until it echoed between my ears like someone was whispering the doubts in just to play with my brain.

But still, my boss trusted me.

The order had been placed over the phone. Hannibal had made several orders with the store before, so the color palette of his dining room was on file. There was an additional list of all that he was planning to serve that night to give a better image of what I was working with.

"Hannibal is a very detail-oriented person," my boss explained. "He returns to us because he knows that we can meet those expectations."

"Oh," I muttered, still trying to take in the information placed in front of me.

"Look at me," she touched my arm. "You have a gift for this. You are able to see these arrangements in a way that feels nearly inhuman. I don't care what you need- coffee, notebooks, a big evidence board like they use in all those cop shows- I am willing to provide you with whatever you need to make this work."

I took a deep breath. "Okay."

She gave me a side hug. "You'll do great."

I spread out all the details of the order on the table, preparing to spend hours on this project if I needed to.

None of the worry that I had while making the arrangement could compare to the worry that happened when Hannibal came into the store.

Some of it was my fear about the project itself. Most of it was just because of Hannibal.

Even without speaking, he could capture anyone's attention. He carried himself in a way that most people think of as tense. Perfect posture and few movements beyond what was necessary. What could have been seen as performative seemed natural for him. If he was putting on an act, then it fit him well.

"(Y/n)," my boss waved me over. I grinned at her as I walked over. "Mr. Lecter, this is (Y/n) (Y/l/n). (Y/n), this is Mr. Lecter."

"Hannibal," he introduced himself, holding out a hand for me to shake. I nodded, shaking his hand.

"(Y/n) has only been here a matter of weeks but they are one of the most talented individuals I've ever met, let alone worked with," my boss explained.

"I will go grab the arrangement," I said, wanting to get away from the compliments. It was weird to have someone talk to another person about me when I was right there. It didn't carry the same weight.

I walked back out and placed the arrangement on the empty table near the wall.

"I utilized these darker reds to tie in the color palette of the room you provided," I explained. "I used these lighter colors to differentiate the table setting from the wall. If I hadn't included them, it would have appeared flat or clashed with the food you plan on serving. I also wanted to find a harmony between your menu and the arrangement as to not distract from the main focus of the evening. People are there to see your work, not mine. The stems and leaves of the plants do enough to lift them and part the colors enough for them to look lively and less flat."

Hannibal was silent as he inspected the work. I found myself twiddling with my thumbs nervously. I hadn't done that since I was a child.

I felt eyes digging into the side of my head. I looked to my boss, who offered me a small grin. I grinned back.

"It's exactly what I had in mind," Hannibal said. I let out a sigh of relief as I smiled.

"I will go ring this up and pack it for you then." my boss grabbed the arrangement and walked to the counter.

"You have a very good eye." he complimented.

"I wish I could say that it was natural," I chuckled. Even though he had already approved the arrangement, I still felt nervous. As if I was struggling to keep up with him in a conversation. As if he was thinking farther ahead than I could ever hope to.

"Who taught you?"

"My mother. She ran a business out of her house. Taught me everything she knows. I even took over quite a few tasks when she got older."

"You had a career waiting for you then. How did you end up here?"

I must've visibly tensed when I looked down at the ground for a moment.

"I apologize if I overstepped," he said.

"It's okay," I nodded, forcing the grin back onto my face.

"I hope I can make it up to you," he continued. I was about to refuse. "I host these dinners quite often. You should come to the next one."

"Oh, no, I couldn't," I shook my head. "I'm afraid your cooking would be wasted on me. I don't have much of a palette."

"It's a good thing that a good palette can be taught," he insisted. He leaned forward a bit like what he was telling me a secret. "And you have more potential than most."

"You are very insistent."

"I was hoping for persuasive."

"I guess we'll have to wait and see when you host another party," I shrugged. I leaned forward, mimicking what had done just a few moments ago. "I believe my boss is waiting for you."

Hannibal turned to look at the register. "It seems she is. Impolite to keep her waiting. Until we met again."

"I look forward to it."

I heard him apologize to my boss as he walked over to the counter. I took the opportunity to duck into the back and calm down. My face immediately warmed up as my efforts to play it calm, collected, and professional crumbled to pieces.

I couldn't explain what was different about Hannibal. I just knew that I had never met anyone like him and that I very well may never meet someone like him in the future.

And that drew me in more than I would ever care to admit.

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

Tag Lists:

Everything - @geeksareunique Hannibal OC - @narwhal-swimmingintheocean

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[frost-eyed-autumn]

Its been a long and winding year returning to tumblr in a more dedicated fashion for the first in a long while (not since 2019, yeesh! Time flies), but I can't really say I regret it at all!

With all its ups and a couple of downs, I've regained some of that old spark I used to have being in the RPC again and I really just wanted to do something paying it forward even if just in a small way -- so I'm doing a little something that used to be a common end-of-the-year tradition back during the golden years of the old RPC I used to romp in!

There's nothing anyone else has to do in return, this is just me giving a little bit of appreciation to all the people who have given me a reason to be here and really let me enjoy myself here again!

So one way or another, this is just a thank you to ALL of my mutuals who've made my time here a little bit brighter! Here's to a hopefully even better 2025!

@starsburned / @stormslullaby / @eiinn-ulfr

Cor, my bruhloved. Every list has to have you on it, naturally. I wouldn't even be here writing right now if you hadn't been the one to convince me to pick up Chuuya. Its hard to believe how close we're getting to the 8 year mark since we've officially become friends. I genuinely don't know where I'd be without you. You helped pick me up when I was at my lowest in the old fandom where we met, and that first time you let me vent to you, I really just thought you would be another person who was here today, gone tomorrow. But now you've woven yourself so deeply into my daily routine that I can't imagine anything less than having you part of my life. You're such an amazing person despite all of the absolute bullshit you've gone through daily that no one should have to suffer through, and I'm proud of you for still chugging along no matter how hard everything gets and how much you've grown and continue to grow. And more than just that, you're such an amazing writer to boot. You dedicate so much to every muse you pick up, whether it be a canon or an OC, and craft every one of them masterfully. From Rune to Dazai to Verlaine to Mori and all your other billions of muses (you fucking muse gremlin(affectionate)), none of them ever disappoint and I love seeing how passionate you are about all of them, whether it be in your writings or just your daily ramblings. Nothing would be the same without you here.

@memoryextrction

Things are still a bit new between us but I can say with full, genuine honesty you are one of the most pleasant people I've had the pleasure of getting to know! And I've had a lot of people come in and out of my life, most of them people that quickly showed they weren't good for me, so that's a compliment that doesn't come lightly from me, distant and critical person that I am about new faces. Even if I'm old and tired and can't always keep up with your energy, I always love seeing your messages and interacting with you, and just your overall maturity and decency as a person despite how young you still are and all of the shit you go through and struggle with on a daily basis. I only wish there were more people who could bring your kind of wholesome vibes to the world because the world seriously needs more people like you. And of course, your writing! The thing that got us interacting in the first place. I love our interactions so much and how much passion you put behind your muses, especially the characters who basically had nothing in their original series and really made them your own. I love the nuance and complexity and love you breathe into your 2-minute-screen-time muses and really give them the attention they deserve, and by god do they make for some of my favorite interactions of all time.

@nohumaen / @crimcpnish

We've only really begun to start talking in earnest, but I'm glad we have! Its rare that I'm pleasantly surprised by people, especially in dealing with tough situations, but you are one of those few people, and its a real breath of fresh air, let me tell you. I'm genuinely happy to have started writing with and getting to know you, and not just because your Kouyou (and Higuchi, and Fyodor) is fucking amazing, although that certainly helps! Your humor always gives me a good laugh, and overall I just really enjoy your company and don't regret at all bringing you into our little circle of friends. I'm wishing the best for you and those you keep closest!

@vulpesly

We don't write nearly as much as I'd like to these days, but just having you still around and part of my experience at all means more than I can rightly express. I always love our small exchanges and seeing Jono and Tachihara on the dash, and just how much care you put into your portrayals! Even just seeing your little rambles about other things like video games lightens my day a little. Thank you for allowing me to be part of your experience as well.

@inciteafflatus / @skilledsenses

Tenka! The bonafied cryptid of my circle of people. Its always a pleasure to see you around and your Ranpo is always so *chef's kiss* (even if Chuuya wants to yeet him through a ceiling every time). You're always so funny and pleasant to talk to, in the rare instances you make your cryptid appearances, and I'm glad to know you and always share in a good few laughs!

@ripheart / @beastlit

I know this year has been pretty rough on you, and I'm holding out hope that things get a lot better moving into the new year! I've really enjoyed what few exchanges we've had when we both have the energy to carry a conversation, and your amazing writings always leave me biting at the bit waiting for your next carefully crafted reply! Your Yosano is so beautifully portrayed and on-point I could swear she was written by Asagiri himself, and I really look forward to seeing more of her when life finally cuts you a break enough to return!

@eternalstarlights

Going to be honest, at one point I wasn't sure if we were ever going to meaningfully interact, but now that we have a couple things started I'm really glad we do! I'm really enjoying the little things we have going on between Kunikida and Ember and I especially really look forward to seeing how things develop with Ember because she and Chuuya honestly just seem like such a natural-born team to have working together and bonding over blowing things up!

@flamesignite / @hughesxmaes

We don't do a whole ton of direct interactions but seeing the constant shenanigans and total crack energy on my dash (at poor Roy's expense) is always a fun time even from the sidelines and is just about always guaranteed to get a laugh or two out of me. Keep doing what you're doing cuz its honestly such a joy to see!

@kitxkatrp

I'm really enjoying the little interactions we have going so far between Chuuya and Dazai and Mori! Its always fun having Double Black stirring up shit with each other and I definitely never have any complaints getting to throw Chuuya at a well written Mori!

@gyofukuki

Its a bit of a shame we don't get to interact more cuz you honestly just give me lots of good vibes whenever you're around! Though I totally get it with not being able to be around as much as you'd like to. I haven't forgotten the couple of things we managed to get started and I'm really looking forward to continuing them when you do manage to find the time to be back here properly!

@galaxy-0f-muses

It took us a while to really kick things off but I couldn't be happier that we finally have! I'm super enjoying the little thread we have going with Atsushi and Chuuya right now and I'm definitely interested to see how things will play out with Yosano once that thread finds its stride too! Here's to some hopefully fun, ongoing interactions because I'm really digging them so far!

@frozcnlight

We've only just started to really get things rolling, but I'm already enjoying the dynamic going on between Chuuya and Miran quite a bit! She's such an interesting contrast to Chuuya in a way that's bound to spark some interesting interactions between them. What those interactions will be, I'm not really sure yet, but exploring that and seeing where it goes has definitely caught my interest!

@spezialistin / @kokyuchusei

I always love seeing people giving some of the less recognized / appreciated characters of a series some love and attention, especially some of the strong female characters, and so far you really do immense justice to writing Higuchi! We may only have one little thread going at the moment but already it has me rolling around a ton of possibilities and ideas that I'm really looking forward to playing around with and hopefully I can inspire the same!

@ofdraiocht

Its good to finally get the ball rolling on something after being distant mutuals for so long and I'm definitely enjoying and looking forward to the interaction we have going between Chuuya and Odasaku! I always love playing around different timelines like Dark Era and what Chuuya's relationship might be to some of the characters we don't really get to see him interact with much in canon.

@voracitys

Its always nice to have a new face to write with and explore new possibilities and I definitely haven't been disappointed! I know Gin is still a bit of a new muse for you trying her out but what little we've written so far I'm really enjoying and love how you write her and look forward to seeing how these two develop! Especially being both Chuuya and Gin coming from somewhat similar backgrounds, even if she doesn't realize it yet, so there's a whole lot of potential there for the both of them that I'm eager to see play out!

@koriningyou

We're still kind of finding our stride in actually writing something together and kind of talked about that already, but trust me, I notice all the little Likes you leave on my posts and I really appreciate those small, daily affirmations that you're reading and wanting to interact! And I seriously appreciate it every time and look forward to once we get some momentum going on IC interactions as well!

@muses-of-kira / @alchemic-elric

We haven't really gotten to write much yet for obvious reasons but that doesn't mean I don't look forward to it! I'm wishing you a speedy recovery for your hand and I look forward to being able to write something once its better!

And just for following back this silly blog of mine at all, even if we haven't really interacted much (yet!)

@cursedlane || @seraphynm || @fullmxtal-elrich / @zodixcsorangekxtten / @cryptxd-laboratxry || @bookmcde || @doppogin || @cherrygardn || @pocketfulofgalaxies || @diverse-hearts-ocs || @rowanberryhub / @goeticedda || @ficryfingcrs || @paramythas || @avarlclouss || @mused-like-roses || @devouund / @vieaccorde / @straypaged / @yashabana || @teruoku || @hellshovnd

[cosmic-giraffe]

What’s your current opinions on the ch5 cast of tetro? Who do you think has a high chance of dying this chapter?

Honestly? I like them all!

I was Tamba's biggest opp for a while ngl, I was raking her over the coals for every murder case and had convinced myself each time that it was her. And I guess it was because I was salty that she got to live while most of my faves (Okazaki, Tsuno, Kazutoshi and Watari) all died while she scraped by not really doing much.

But now that there are fewer people and the spotlight is on her, I've found that I really do like Tamba now! Sure, she still irks me with her brashness and insistence on always being right all the time, but that's just part of the package deal when it comes to her. Also, I like how her lack of an arc has actually played a role in the story.

She hasn't lost anybody particularly close to her, she hasn't really changed her attitude since the start of the game, and her self-preservation has resulted in her fucking over everybody else, which is bound to ramp up the tension.

When it comes to everybody else, I like who we have as potential survivors! I kinda always saw Ken living to the end, especially after losing Kazutoshi; he'd need to carry on his memory somehow, especially since he was the only person that Kazutoshi ever really showed his vulnerable side to.

As for who I think might die...

There are only a few people it could be, so the cop out answer would be "anyone".

But I'm gonna go out on a limb and say either Ojima, Hiroaki or Mai.

I feel like Mai's death would be her ultimate (pardon the pun) sacrifice; she started out the game trying to protect everybody, lost her way after being traumatised by Kan, and now might see her taking the fall as the only way to protect the remaining students.

Ojima's death is a little harder to rationalise, though I think it has to do with the episode where he talks about how he feels he'll never grow up or something along those lines. If he does indeed die this chapter, then he would be figuratively frozen in time at the age he is now, never being afforded the chance to become an adult and move on from his trauma. Which would be a tragic ending for his story, but thematically consistent.

And Hiroaki, purely because he's undergoing his redemption arc and Tetro has a thing for killing off characters as soon as they're trying to grow and become better people 😭 Also because it would make him more sympathetic if people actually had to process their feelings for him and grieve, regardless of who killed him.

And I know you didn't ask, but I'm very sure Yanagi is gonna be the killer this chapter hehehehehe

Thank you for the ask!!

[gayvecchio]

I was inspired by this great post by @pigtailedgirl to share moments that cemented my love for the Fraser/Vecchio pairing.

I really do enjoy watching basically every interaction these two have, no matter how small, so choosing key moments is difficult. But here are a few moments that are never far from my mind and make me want to climb the walls whenever i think about them.

In no particular order...

The diner scene in the pilot where they both talk about their respective fathers. Also, how did Ray know Fraser was there? Was the diner near the consulate? Did Ray just wander around looking for him???

OMGGGG!!! Ray's smile after Fraser tells him he doesn't want him to go. He's so happy that Fraser wants him stay, especially since Fraser has been so depressed (understandably so) and distant in the hospital. The cracks are mending. Their relationship is healing. (So many MOMENTS in this ep -- Ray taking a bullet for Fraser anyone??? Even Stevens?)

This scene. THIS SCENE in Pizza and Promises. Fraser's quiet desperation throughout when the car is sinking and Ray is in the trunk. I think it's the first time we see Fraser really ruffled, scared for someone else, for Ray. He is usually so composed no matter the danger of the situation, but I think that's when he feels in control of it to some degree, which he doesn't here. This time Ray is in danger and it wasn't a part of Fraser's plan. For the first time Fraser is confronted with the idea of losing Ray and realizing that Ray is someone he is terrified to lose.

The way he grips his arm arm here, the intense expression asking if Ray's okay. And then Ray's dazed, smitten little smile when he says "yes." He's used to Fraser being the hero, but this time he is Ray's hero. Maybe he sees a bit of what I do in Fraser's expression, sees just how important he really is to Fraser.

This was the moment that made me whisper "oh, no!" to myself because I knew I'd never be the same. I knew I was becoming lost to the Fraser/Vecchio void and there was no way back.

This one is not strictly a F/V scene, but yes it is. Because I still not and will never be convinced that this whole conversation in Heaven & Earth isn't about Ray being in love with Fraser. And the fact that Fraser is there eavesdropping!!! (never getting that merit badge back now, Benny).

I've ranted about this before and I'm sure I will again, but Ray's behavior in this whole episode just make no sense to me unless he is jealous. The whole speech about Ray being afraid to dream and reach out for what he wants and FRASER'S RIGHT THERE, so close but impossible to touch.

Fraser running after Ray in the style of many classic romantic heroes before him. COME ON!

North is like god-tier F/V goodness from start to finish, but this moment with Ray carrying Fraser over his shoulder while SINGING AND DANCING is an absolute highlight. Insane behavior, 10/10. Perhaps, Ray is just thrilled to be so close to Fraser's butt despite the circumstances.

Fraser and Ray doing their grocery shopping together is so special to me.

I'll end this with the scene from bdth. I have nothing to say. I'm sobbing too hard. Anyway, I think it speaks for itself. Even my mother could see that they were in love.

I have to cut myself off here otherwise this post will be a mile long. Even now I am thinking of so many other moments that I adore. I guess that's how I know how much I love them, every moment seems special. I didn't pick any of the smaller, sillier moments, like Fraser being offended by Ray running stop signs or running over saplings, or 'She shot you in the hat?' but I love those infinitely as well. That's the thing about Fraser and Vecchio, they work on every level, from the absurd to the devastating. Paul Gross and David Marciano's acting and chemistry carry every interaction and facet of the Fraser/Vecchio relationship so well that I can't help but enjoy every moment they're on screen together.

[anxious-and-in-pain]

Health Update:

it’s been a bit since i talked about my medical issues on here. this week, i finally let my friends and family convince me to bring up things that have been going on for years but i always have more pressing issues to address. i got diagnosed with orthostatic intolerance and not POTS like i was expecting. they’re still telling me to up my fluid and salt intake and to try compression stockings. it only took two minutes for my blood pressure to drop to 78/58. considering how awful i feel sometimes when standing, i bet my BP becomes even worse than that. anyone have recommendations for how to deal with this kind of thing? maybe compression stockings for sensitive skin?

i’m getting referred to the GI doctor and i’m supposed to ask my neurologist about the sleep walking and sleep talking. none of this is urgent, but i’d love to be able to swallow better and sleep better than i currently do

my daily life is still far more limited than i’d like. it sucks to compare November 2024 to that of 2023 and my current daily routine to those of January or May. in January, i was able to sit up and read all day most days. i only sit up for short periods now, and my back pain and fatigue are much more intense while upright. i miss being able to randomly learn, creative write, go out, and perform tasks of daily living by myself. i honestly don’t think i could survive on my own right now for longer than a month. i mourn those we’ve lost who were in the same situation but didn’t have a safety net

i’m grieving small losses in ability. even watching Critical Role or science videos. i wish i could go to community spaces. i wish i could write. (even speech to text and lying down while typing are too much.) it fucking sucks, especially when ‘author’ was one of the last terms i had to define myself and the impact i’ll have on the world

anyone relate? how is everyone else doing?

[azxulskz]

- fragile,

not strong or sturdy; delicate and vulnerable.

Pairing: han jisung x m!reader

Genre: fluff, non-idol au!, and romance.

Warning: kissing (?) that's about it!

A/n: sooooo, my first fic!!! I feel like I did a lot of grammar mistakes... Especially using semicolons, so please don't forget to comment so I can make sure to be better for the next fic!! Reblogs, likes, and commenting will be really appreciated. Thank you, and enjoy reading!!

Please don't repost, steal, copy, translate, and any kind of plagiarism. This is my work, so please don't steal it.

Love me, like a fragile object.

The people around me see me as fragile, like something that could shatter under pressure. They think I'll break if not handled carefully, that I might crumble without my comfort person by my side. And I can't blame them for seeing me this way, because I've become what they believe I am.

Han jisung..

He's the reason they see me as fragile, delicate, soft, vulnerable, and frail. He's the one who's shown me the most kindness, the one who's always there to pick me up when I fall. He's the one who's made me feel safe and loved, the one who's helped me to believe in myself. He's the one who's made me realize that I'm not as strong as I thought I was, that I need someone to lean on, someone to be there for me. He's the one who's made me realize that I'm not as independent as I thought I was, that I need someone to love and to be loved by.

Han Jisung...

He treats me like no one else, makes me smile like no one else, transforms my life, changes my perspective, and helps me love myself in a way no one else can. He's the one who's shown me what it means to be truly loved, the one who's made me feel like I'm worth something. He's the one who's made me realize that I'm not alone, that there's someone out there who cares about me. He's the one who's made me realize that I'm not just a fragile shell, that I'm a strong and capable man.

Han Jisung...

He makes me feel safe, allows me to be whoever I want to be, inspires me to dream big, fuels my hopes, and makes me believe anything is possible. He's the one who's shown me that I can be anything I want to be, that I can achieve anything I set my mind to. He's the one who's made me realize that I'm not just a boy with a broken heart, that I'm a man with a bright future ahead of me.

Han Jisung...

He's the best friend anyone could ask for, but is being a best friend all he can ever be? I've been trying to convince myself that he's just a friend, that I'm just overthinking things. But the truth is, I'm falling for him. I'm falling for him hard. And I'm terrified. I'm terrified of what will happen if I tell him how I feel. I'm terrified of losing him. But I'm also terrified of living with this secret, of never knowing what could have been.

You groaned in annoyance, staring at your phone once again. When did you, THE Y/n L/n, start feeling this way? In love with Han, your BEST FRIEND! You decided to turn off your phone to clear your head. Knocks on the door outside your apartment echoed through the room. Recognizing the pattern, you sighed and dragged yourself to open it. "What are you doing here so late?" you asked, your eyes scanning the younger guy standing before you. There stood Han—the person you like, the person who makes you feel so important, the guy who makes your stomach do flips—in his usual comfy clothes: an oversized shirt, jogging pants, his everyday shoes, and the tote bag you gave him for Valentine's Day.

"What are you doing here????? It's very late already, Han," you asked, eyeing him up and down. You desperately wanted to ask, "Can we give this a try?" You knew that it was a risk, but you were willing to take it. You were willing to risk everything for a chance to be with him. You were willing to risk losing him as a friend, just to have a chance to be with him as something more. You were willing to risk everything for a chance at love.

“Was about to go to the 7/11 store we always go to, but got lazy, sooooo, crashing in your place it is,” Han said enthusiastically, looking at you with that annoyingly-cute gummy smile. “Can’t shoo you away now, can I?” you asked Han, playfully annoyed, as you let him into your apartment. Han nodded, stifling a laugh, and walked inside, taking off his shoes and placing them neatly by the door. He set his tote bag on the kitchen counter and then headed towards the fridge to grab a soda.

You watched Han move around your apartment as if it were his own, a grin playing on your lips as you grabbed yourself a drink. “Are you gonna stay for tonight?” you asked, hoping he would say yes. Even a maybe would make you happier than you should be. “I will, it’s boring in our dorm, and I miss you,” Han said so casually that it felt like a punch to the gut.

“Just say you’re so in love with me at this point,” you said, not thinking much of it. He always flirted playfully with you. What harm could a little flirtation back do?

But a lot was about to happen.

"I am,” Han responded quietly, his head lowered, hands fidgeting, legs bouncing nervously. The tension in the air thickened, pressing down on you like a physical weight, making it hard to breathe.

“W-what?” was all you could manage. You were nervous, while he seemed even more tense. He didn’t speak for a moment, still fidgeting as if searching for the right words, the right moment. Then, he stood up, grabbing the tote bag from the counter. You watched as he pulled out a small bouquet of flowers, seemingly made of ribbons. Confusion, fear, and nervousness washed over you. “Han…?” you called out, waiting for an answer.

The room was silent, the tension growing thicker with each passing second. And then, finally, “I like you, Y/N.” The words tumbled out of his mouth, breaking the silence that had stretched for what felt like an eternity. He walked towards you and handed you the flowers. As you held them, the words replaying in your mind made you feel nauseous.

He likes you.

Han likes you.

Your best friend likes you.

Your heart pounded in your chest, a frantic drumbeat against your ribs. You looked at Han, his eyes filled with a vulnerability you’d never seen before. He was no longer the carefree, playful friend you knew. He was a man, a man who was scared, a man who was hoping.

“I’m sorry, Y/N. I didn’t mean to, I swear. We’ve been friends for so long, flirting, cuddling, being there for each other—it’s all normal. But lately, it’s been making me feel things. The way you smile at me, the way you let me take care of you, the way you flirt back, the way you let me do whatever I want when I’m bored… You’re just being you, and it’s frustrating. I can’t stop these feelings, I can’t stop what I truly feel about you, I can’t stop falling for you.” Han rambles, his voice laced with a mixture of desperation and hope. You listen, recognizing the same feelings and frustrations you’ve been battling since you realized you were falling for him. You’ve tried to ignore it, to push it down, but the truth is, you can’t deny it anymore. You look at him, his eyes filled with a vulnerability that makes your heart ache. Before you can think, you’re leaning in, kissing him softly, cupping his cheeks to silence his rambling.

“Han, you’re talking to yourself again,” you say softly, pulling back and smiling. The warmth of his lips against yours, the way his body instinctively leans into yours, it all confirms what you’ve been feeling. “I like you too, Han. A lot, more than you’ll ever know.” You ruffle his hair, holding his hands, feeling the warmth of his skin against yours. He’s stunned, processing your words. How could you like him? Just him? An average boy who happens to be your best friend? He looks at you with confused, teary eyes.

“You really… like me too?” he asks, fear evident in his voice. The question hangs in the air, a testament to the doubts that have been plaguing him. “I do, baby. I really do.” You respond, your voice firm and unwavering. The next thing you know, he’s blushing like a tomato before kissing you again, this time with a newfound confidence. The kiss is filled with a raw, unbridled passion that leaves you breathless.

You realize that this isn’t just a friendship anymore, it’s something deeper, something more profound. You’ve crossed a line, and you’re both ready to explore the unknown territory that lies ahead.

The air crackles with unspoken words, a symphony of emotions playing out between you. You can feel the shift in the dynamic, the transition from comfortable friendship to something more intense, more complicated. The uncertainty of the future hangs heavy, but the excitement of the unknown is exhilarating. You’ve both taken a leap of faith, and the journey ahead promises to be both thrilling and terrifying. You’re ready to face it together, hand in hand, hearts intertwined.

The world around you fades away, the only reality being the warmth of his body against yours, the taste of his lips on yours, the feeling of his hands intertwined with yours. This is a new beginning, a chance to rewrite the story of your relationship, to explore the depths of your feelings, to discover what lies beyond the boundaries of friendship. You’re both on the precipice of something extraordinary, and you’re ready to take the plunge.