#i am bad at expressing my gratitude. but you're always such a delight that I hope to see you in my rbs or comments

[cry-ptidd]

I for the longest time always thought that spamming an artist with comments and such about their work was a sure fire way to annoy and anger them. I am glad to know that you don't mind it! Cause you and your art are amazing! And you deserve all the praise and reconition!❤️ Rock on Nev!

Your comments, tags and reboots are never, for the love of god, bothersome to me. In fact, I think we should give you most supportive tumblr user award. You're just that amazing. I love you

[satellite-evans]

Sweet Home

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x reader

Summary: Benedict comes home after a long day to his beloved family <3

Word count: 963 ( she is a shortie)

Warnings: tooth aching fluff, kissing

A/N:

Tell a friend to tell a friend, she is baaaaaaaaack :)

I wrote this in like 20 mintues so I apologize if it is bad, but I had to put something out there to bring back the flow xx

English is not my first language, so I apologize if I made any (grammar) mistakes. Feedback, requests, recommendations, vents or questions are always welcome. I love talking to you guys about anything <3

Happy reading xxx

I do NOT give permission for my work to be translated or reposted on here or any other site.

Benedict Bridgerton sighed as he stepped into the foyer of his home, the weight of the day's events slowly melting away. He could hear the faint sounds of the household settling in for the evening. It was a comforting hum, one that reminded him of what truly mattered.

"You're home," your voice greeted him softly, and he looked up to see you standing at the entrance of the living room, a welcoming smile on your face.

"Indeed I am," he replied, his eyes lighting up at the sight of you. "And I believe it's the best part of my day."

You stepped closer, reaching out to brush a lock of hair from his forehead. "Tough day?"

Benedict nodded, his eyes closing momentarily as he leaned into your touch. "One of the toughest. But seeing you makes it all worth it."

You chuckled, the sound like music to his ears. "Come with me," you said, taking his hand and leading him into the living room. The space was cozy and inviting, with a fire crackling softly in the hearth and the soft strains of a violin playing in the background from a nearby phonograph.

As you reached the center of the room, you turned to face him, your hands slipping around his neck. "Dance with me," you whispered, your voice a soothing balm to his weary soul.

Benedict's arms encircled your waist, pulling you close. "Always," he murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. You began to sway together, moving in perfect harmony as the music enveloped you.

For a while, it was just the two of you, lost in the comfort of each other's arms. The world outside faded away, leaving only the warmth and love you shared. Benedict's hands roamed your back, his touch both tender and possessive. He relished these moments, where he could simply hold you and forget the stresses of the day.

"Do you know how much I love you?" he whispered, his lips brushing against your ear.

You smiled, tilting your head to look up at him. "Show me," you teased, your eyes sparkling with mischief.

Benedict's gaze darkened with desire, his hands tightening on your waist. He leaned in, his breath warm against your cheek, when the soft patter of little feet interrupted your moment. Your twin daughters, Elizabeth and Emma, peeked around the corner, their identical faces lighting up with joy at the sight of their parents dancing.

"Mama! Papa!" they cried in unison, rushing into the room.

Benedict laughed, releasing you just enough to scoop up one of the girls in each arm. "And what are my two favorite ladies up to this evening?" he asked, kissing each of their foreheads.

"Dancing!" Elizabeth exclaimed, her eyes shining with excitement.

"Can we dance too, Papa?" Emma asked, her small hands clinging to his shirt.

"Of course you can," Benedict replied, setting them down gently. "But you'll need to hold onto Mama and me, alright?"

You smiled, taking Elizabeth's hand while Benedict took Emma's. The four of you began to dance together, moving in a joyful, if somewhat clumsy, circle. The twins giggled and laughed, their innocent delight filling the room.

As the music continued, you caught Benedict's eye over the heads of your daughters. His expression was one of pure contentment, a look that spoke of deep love and gratitude. In that moment, surrounded by the family you had built together, all the worries of the world seemed to vanish.

After a while, the twins began to tire, their energy waning. You and Benedict guided them to the couch, where they cuddled up together, their eyes heavy with sleep. You watched as their breathing slowed, their small chests rising and falling in unison.

Benedict pulled you close once more, his hands resting on your hips. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion.

"For what?" you asked, wrapping your arms around his neck, your fingers threading through the soft hair at the nape of his neck.

"For this. For them. For everything," he replied, his forehead resting against yours. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

You smiled, your heart swelling with love. "You don't have to," you said softly. "We're a family, Benedict. We'll always have each other."

He kissed you then, a slow, lingering kiss that promised more to come. His lips moved gently against yours, communicating a depth of feeling that words could not capture. You could feel the stress of his day finally slipping away, replaced by a warmth that only your love could provide.

As you stood there, wrapped in his embrace, you knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, you would face them together. You could feel his heartbeat against yours, steady and strong, a reminder that you were his anchor just as much as he was yours.

In that moment, with your daughters sleeping peacefully nearby and your husband's arms around you, everything was perfect. The fire crackled softly, casting a warm glow over the room, and the music played on, a gentle soundtrack to your love story.

Benedict pulled back slightly, his eyes searching yours. "You know," he began, a playful glint in his eye, "I think we might need to continue this dance later."

You laughed softly, a knowing look passing between you. "I think I would like that very much," you replied, your voice tinged with anticipation.

He kissed you again, his lips lingering on yours, before pulling you into a tight embrace. "I love you," he whispered against your hair.

"I love you too," you replied, feeling a sense of completeness that only he could bring.

As you stood there, holding each other, you knew that nothing could part the both of you. Because you had each other. And that was all you needed.

[cambion-companion]

I cannot concentrate on my work (ironically as a TA writing up my phd thesis) because I read your intelligence 8 tav x raphael fics and now I am shaken to the core and all I wanna do is daydream about being a clueless little slut in the house of hoep

please saer can I have some more

hahaha I'm so glad that brain worm took root, intelligence 8 Tav is delightful. I also wanted to incorporate this lovely ask as well and express my gratitude for the support you all have given me this month. All is well! Enjoy a drabble with a Tav/reader utterly oblivious to the true nature of a cambion...to them he's just a tiefling with wings! how cool!

Raphael + reader (gn) drabble

(I'll probably write another that's more romantic/cute but this was too funny to pass up)

"You have an uncanny talent at getting into the most outlandish situations." Raphael pinched the bridge of his nose between thumb and forefinger, inhaling a deep breath.

You looked around at the decadent room he'd rented for himself, steam rising from two baths and flower petals ornamenting the lush red carpet. "I wouldn't think a devil-guy would be the sort to have tulips thrown about."

"Roses." Raphael corrected, his hand clasping firm about your upper arm just in time to save you from slipping on the wet tile and braining yourself. "I would wager a hefty sum of gold your mind does not entertain too many thoughts at one time."

"Thank you." You murmured, touched. You allowed him to escort you to safety upon a chair and watched with vague interest at how his lips twisted in bemusement. "I should thank you for saving my bacon back there. Wasn't expecting to survive that. But Shart always gets Withers to bring me back when we run out of those glowy scroll things."

"I do believe I sense a migraine coming on." Raphael squeezed his eyes shut briefly before crossing to pour you both a glass of dark brown alcohol.

You took the fancy crystal glass and downed the drink with gusto, only realizing your mistake when the scorching whiskey had passed into your gullet, and you burst into a coughing fit. Raphael sighed and gave you a solid couple thumps on your back as you struggled to breath. "There now. Death by imbibing spirits too eagerly is no way to enter the afterlife. Not until you've served your purpose, at least."

"What?"

"I'm concerned for your well-being, dear."

You wiped your eyes with your sleeve. "That's really nice of you, Raph." He winced at the nickname but just barely managed to keep a pleasant neutral expression. "I don't know why everyone else threw such a fit about you, you're not a bad dude."

"I'm flattered." Raphael almost felt a sense of annoyance at how easy this was. He enjoyed a challenge, and this mortal was certainly not bringing it. He drained his glass fluidly and returned it with a clink to the table. "Now, your person is more or less stable for the time being."

You looked around, checking behind you. "What person?"

"Your body has been plucked from the peril you so naively flounced into." Raphael clarified, a slight edge to his words now, he was running low on patience. "Be a good mouse and run along, fetch me the crown and we can part ways amicably."

"I never imagined mice to be much good at fetching." You mused, rising to your feet as Raphael practically pushed you from his room. "That seems more a dog's forte. Oh, we have a most wonderful dog back at camp-"

The door closed in your face, so close it almost clipped your nose. You stared at the dark wood for a moment, then smiled and shrugged. You spoke a little louder so he would be able to hear through it. "His name is Scratch! What was I saying? Oh yes, dogs fetch crowns and balls better than mice! Maybe keep that in mind when giving people animal nicknames!"

No answer.

He must have gone to take a nap. You were sure cambions probably did that often since they seemed to act much like cats in every other way.

Smiling to yourself you departed, convinced that you and Raphael were now bosom friends.

[ma3-author]

✎ 16 ✉

Previous CH: -ɴᴏᴛᴇ- /// ✎ 00 ✉ ///  ✎ 01 ✉ ///  ✎ 02 ✉ ///  ✎ 03 ✉ /// ✎ 04 ✉ ///  ✎ 05 ✉ ///  ✎ 06 ✉ ///  ✎ 07 ✉ ///  ✎ 08 ✉ ///  ✎ 09 ✉ ///  ✎ 10 ✉ ///  ✎ 11 ✉ /// ✎ 12 ✉ /// ✎ 13 ✉ /// ✎ 14 ✉ /// ✎ 15 ✉ ///

___________________________________

We know Sylvia is a cunning person who likes to play her game when it’s about to launch or when the time is right. Even though Y/N knows what Sylvia is capable of, one thing is that she still doesn’t get why Sylvia decided to adopt a dog, a cat, and now a bird.

Yes, bird. One thing that didn’t happen in the story

Sylvia surprised Y/N by delivering a bird to the Pellereli household as a gift. to express gratitude for always making her sons happy and being friends with them. a gift to show her gratitude.

"Greetings, Lady Y/N, I want to give you this bird as a way to thank you and show how grateful I was as you changed my sons. Nemo wasn’t that confident before, but now he's like a new person.

Carlo found some light in him and wasn’t like before, the same as my son Sein."

You could only scoff as you read the letter from her, and seeing the bird that was locked in the cage, you didn’t hesitate to free it. And as it flew to the sky, it was like you were viewing your way out of this book.

The only difference is that you’re still in the cage. But not to worry, as the key to opening it is just somewhere inside the Dimoche Garden. You did search for the book, but because the outside is bigger than the inside,

It will take you a long time to search for it.

You did, of course, go back to the library to check on it but didn’t find it. Then, at the garbage, you didn't find any, forcing you to search the entire outside area.

You replied back after reading Sylvia's message, even though it will irritate her; you don't care because everything she saw from you, from your body language when facing the brothers to the way your eyes move when facing the twin, is all an act.

And I have to say, you're almost good at it.

"Thank you, Mrs. Dimoche.

The bird is beautiful in every way, and I am delighted to hear about your sons, but sadly it escaped when I accidentally opened the cage; however, I believe it is not a bad thing because it originally belonged to where they were free.

But I did name it—I named it after my dear friend.

"Arthur"

It did tick on Sylvia as she read that name. In her mind, it was full of questions, or maybe it was just a coincidence. After all, you did mention this friend once but never named them, and if it’s your suitor, Sylvia would know.

After Sylvia hid the note in her cabinet, her mind quickly drifted to Sein’s words. "Then you should lock your cabinets properly, my dearest mother." She has to give it to her son, even if he is the more intelligent one; Sein is simply out of order.

And with his words repeating in her mind, she swiftly took out a key from her pocket and locked it as tightly as the key could turn.

With a final turn, she sighs in satisfaction, but as soon as she walks out the door, a figure emerges out of the shadow and carefully strolls to where Sylvia hid the note, and once they unlock it using a picking tool and read the note, they couldn’t hide their grins.

___________________________________

As the weekend is near, it is time for you to visit the Dimoche household again, and because you can only visit when the weekend arrives, it is hard to search for the missing book. What’s more, with all the eyes, it will be a lot harder.

So to move and search faster, you requested Lady Lisa and asked Lord Duke to bring you to the Dimoche manor before the sun peaked. They first denied this request, but soon accepted it, as you never really ask for anything.

Duke Gwen didn't mind because the Pellereli family is always welcome at his house. Another thing you like about this part is that not many servants are awake, and the kids are still sleeping. You also requested one more thing, which is to stroll their garden or visit your resting place.

With that time, even if it was short, it gave you a lot of time to roam and find the book. And to lessen some suspicion, you simply told them how you like to stroll for exercise. Of course, with maids on your side to look out for you,

One or two is okay, as you will simply tell them to wait for you in the spot for a second as you want to check something out, or simply move your eyes if you catch something. You will tell them the same thing.

"Children, do you like this cat?"

"Why’s there only one?"

"Oh~ I’m sorry, the cat’s owner only had one cat." Sylvia apologized while petting the cat that was resting on the table. Just looking at the cat made you sad.

"If you like it, I’ll buy another one." Sylvia tried to say it, only for Aisha to cut her off by telling her how there’s no need for that as she doesn’t want to raise a pet, continuing how it’s sufficient as Aida has one already.

"Thank you, Madam Sylvia, I like it a lot~ Aisha, you should raise a cat too. We would have two cats, and Charlotte would have a companion~ Oh, what about you, Lady Y/N?" Aida, who already had the cat in her arms, can’t stop cooing at the cuteness of it.

You won’t lie; it is very cute.

"Charlotte? You already gave her a name?"

"I think it’s lovely~ and I already have one," you said, petting Charlotte, who simply purred.

"Really? Can you bring them here?" Aida asks, smiling at the thought of it, only to frown when she sees your sad face. This was also noticed by Aisha.

"I plan to~ but sadly, it flew away before I got the chance to bring him"

"How do you know it’s him? It could be a girl." Glancing back at Sylvia, you wanted to smirk at her but forced yourself not to.

"No, Mrs. Dimoche, I know that"Arthur" is a he with just a glance." You said so, clearly toning out the word Arthur.

"Oh~ you already named it? Wait flew?"

"Is your pet a bird, Lady Y/N?"

"Before, yes. But I accidentally opened its cage, and now as we speak, he may be back at his home, where he belongs, which is good!" You smiled at the thought of going home and seeing Sylvia’s twitching lips.

You wanted to laugh at her reaction.

"That does sound lovely~ Oh! Sister, I’ve thought of a name for your cat. Its name will be kate~"

"No, I don’t want a pet."

"If it’s okay with you two, can I use the name, Kate? Father plans to bring a new family into the house."

"Oh my! Is Lady Lisa bringing another angel like you?" Sylvia pondered, motioning her hand towards you, to which you simply bowed and thanked her.

After that, "No, Mrs. Dimoche, my father is bringing a cat home, and I’m excited to meet her."

As the three of you bid farewell to Sylvia, you can feel her snarling lips as you turn around to leave the room. It's not your fault that you're stuck on the story and know all this stuff that irritates them.

Soon after, things changed after you received Arthur from Sylvia. It's still the same story, but some parts are adding up.

Aisha realized how Sylvia favors her sister more than her; you, on the other hand, also noticed how Sylvia kept giving you this thing that you didn’t even want. As to what Aida got, that is what you receive whenever you are home.

This was noticed by your parents and siblings; at first, they were confused as to where this gift came from or who gave it to you, but when they learned where and who it was from, they were grateful. Both parents are

On the other side were your two brothers.

They have dissatisfaction on their faces. Already have the same thought as Aisha does. like how Sylvia is only doing this as part of a plan. While Aisha has the thought that Sylvia keeps doing this to make her jealous, which is not happening.

For the brothers, technically their sister’s suitor as the current one isn’t approved yet. means Sylvia wants to get this opportunity.

Going back to Aisha, it was just that those things weren’t as alluring as books, and she didn’t need them as all the things Lady Y/N had given her were enough for her. One time, as she was reading a book, she left a note in the fairytale book, "Cinderella."

She then wrote down her feeling, "If there’s a fairy who can make dreams come true, I wish for a real mother," as she always does, putting it in and leaving only to come back to check if there’s a reply.

As expected, she got a separate note from Cypress, who obviously doesn’t want the other party to read their notes.

/ I wish for a real home. Can she give it to me? /

+ I wish to go home. Could she give it to me? +

It was the same reply but with a different meaning, and as Aisha read this, she began to write down the question for her two friends.

"Isn’t this place your home?"

/ Not at present, but it will be one day. /

+ No. I’m from far, far away +

Aisha could only sigh as she read this because as she wrote another question asking, "Why is that?" only one had replied to her, and as for Cypress, they suddenly went silent.

After Sylvia’s arrival, the management of the manor became very organized. She even had a channel to purchase various valuable antiques. and was also very warm and gentle towards the twin; additionally, she’s also very friendly to Lady Lisa’s daughter.

Not only Gwen but also Lord Duke and Lady Lisa were satisfied.

Sylvia was then described after Lady Lisa as noble, elegant, dignified, and beautiful, like all the compliments a mother can use to describe her. Aida seemed to have approved of her, but it’s not the same as Aisha and Lady Y/N.

Though Lady Y/N looks like she approved as well, that was all an act.

Aisha, on the other hand, had always been indifferent toward Sylvia’s family. Perhaps the evil stepmother in fairytales had too much influence on her, but maybe the books are only half true.

Cypress, her friend, told her something that stayed in her mind about stepmothers.

+As the book stated, not all stepparents are evil... but stand your guard and prepare, as some are much eviler than the book said. +

The twin did notice something unusual about their father; it’s just that their father’s body was different from before. But the twins were unable to cause such a change. Under Sylvia’s care, their father clearly looked better than before.

‘I don’t know how that’s better?’ You thought as you remembered how much smoke Duke Gwen inhaled, and now that you thought about it... Did Gwen die as a result of the slow poison? However, anyone can die if they continue to smoke.

But in this case, it is possible.

As Sunday arrived, the Dimoche and Pellereli families were going to Sunday church, while the father was reading the Bible. Here you are next to Aisha, hands in a praying position, wording the word "Amen."

Hearing Aida whispering to Sein, you didn’t mind it and focused on the father’s words, but all their whispering made you sigh at the same time, your mind drifting toward them.

"There are so many people praying here, the heavenly father probably won’t notice me."

Though Sein wasn't wrong, you have to admit that when you were a kid, the same age you are now, you would rather play outside than listen to the church, just like any other eleven-year-old.

"You didn’t pray at all. You aren’t devout at all; the heavenly father will definitely not protect you!" Aida chuckled as she said this.

"That’s true. I hope that when I don’t come next time, Mother will not reduce my allowance."

"You—did you do something bad, so you’re hiding your hand from the heavenly father?"

Seeing Sein silent, you already knew what he did, and before he could make the whole atmosphere uncomfortable with his upcoming question, you gently patted Aida’s forearm.

"Aida, Lady Aisha, and Sir Sein. After this, do you want to come to my house?"

"Is that okay, Lady Y/N? did your parents approve of this?" Aisha asks

"No worry, I’ll ask them later, and for sure they would be happy to have you as my guest."

"Oh~ I’m excited."

"Quieten down, Sister," Aisha tried to soothe Aida's agitation. And as you land your eyes on Sein, you simply smile at him and return your gaze to the front of you.

As promised, you talked to your parents, and they happily accepted it the same way Sylvia and Gwen did, who happily thanked you for the invitation.

When the carriage arrives, one thing that makes things awkward is that your brother's gaze has already locked on the Dimoche brothers, even from the start, when you were all still in the church.

While the adults are busy talking to one another, the children are all in the back, which isn’t a good situation. even though you warned them not to glare at, mock, or fight the Dimoche brothers. They still did it.

"I don’t see anything special about them."

"Huh. You said it. Maybe it’s just the name."

"What did you say?" Carlo asks, irritated by their constant mocking and insulting, even in the church, as your brothers continue to whisper to each other, as for Nemo, who cowardly hid behind, attempting to pull Carlo away before things escalated.

Sein only stands aside, watching all of this unfold. Aisha has an amused look, while Aida keeps glancing at you, gesturing for you to do something.

‘What do you want me to do? dance for them?’

"Not only is there nothing good about them, but they’re even deaf." Alex laughed as he let out this mocking statement and as Carlo was about to jump at him.

Marcus held the back of Carlo’s shirt, and before he got the chance to punch him, here you are saving the day by holding Marcus’ wrist.

"Dear brother, would you really embarrass your dear sister? You already embarrassed me from the start; do you want to add some more?" You said, faking some tears.

Marcus and Alex, seeing this, quickly went to your side, quickly apologizing.

"What is the meaning of this?" Hearing a booming sound coming out of your father’s voice, you almost forget they were there.

Quickly wiping your tears, you turned to face them. "Nothing, father; I just got something under my eyes. And my dear brothers are just helping me, right?"

"Y-yes, that’s right-" But Alex didn’t get to finish when Carlo interrupted him.

"He’s lying! " He" was about to punch me, but Miss Y/N stopped him!"

"Is this true?" Ask your father, who’s glaring at Marcus, and when he nodded his head, one unexpected thing happened that you didn’t think would happen.

The Lord Duke of Pellereli just slaps his eldest son in front of the Dimoche family and makes a loud noise that rings down the hallway. You can’t help but wince, feeling like you’re the one getting slapped at and seeing Marcus’ face, which is now facing the left wing.

Even though he deserves that, that still doesn’t define why it’s a good idea to embarrass him in front of the guest. And now he is being ordered to go to his room.

After that, it becomes more awkward. Carlo, who looks guilty, can only look away. As for Alex, he only said that he would check on Marcus while at the same time glaring at Carlo to the point where he wanted to kill him.

"Just go already; you don’t want to get Father angry again."

"Tsk." Alex then moved toward Carlo, pointing his finger at his chest and saying, "Don’t think this is over if you touch even a single hair from my dear sister. "You're dead," Alex said quietly, his voice venomous.

Just hearing this, you could only sigh and push him away, and when he's far away, you quickly move toward Carlo, apologizing for that.

As for him, he simply won’t return to this household again; the same is true for Nemo and Aida. So instead of following you to the library, they stayed behind.

"I have never seen Alex that angry."

"Excuse him; he's simply not used to visitors." You chuckled, remembering some past memories.

"Your brothers must cherish you very much, Lady Y/N."

"They do, and that's what makes them the best brothers." Aisha seeing your smile, she too can't help but smile at this. As the two of you are busy picking out some books and suggesting some new stories,

Sein quietly moved to the side and went to one book that caught his eye, which appeared to be sticking out from its shelf as if indicating for him to look at it. What he didn’t know as he read the cover of it which was "Pinocchio" and once he opens the book and find a note inside.

A person was peeking at him, smirking as her plan was going smoothly.

It was a simple question that could be answered by anyone, a question that was just right for someone like Sein. And as he read the question, he couldn’t help but widen his eyes and glance back at where the two girls were.

And seeing that they were still busy, he quickly took the note out, hiding it in his pocket.

What made Sein act like that? What made him break into character and was now excusing himself to the two girls?

Well, it’s not exactly a simple question, but for someone like Sein, it is.

Pinocchio just wanted to be a real boy, and even though his father kept telling him that he is one… he knows that was a lie.

Instead, he believes the statement made by his friend Cricket.

"To be a true boy, simply take a knife and go to where your father is... question him again, and if he lies. "Kill him. " He deserves it. And after that, you will become a real boy!"

(Now, this is the question that ticks at Sein’s reaction.)

"Do you agree with Mr. Cricket? I'm curious how sharp a knife would have to be to cut through human skin."

"Was it easy when you did it?"

╰┈➤ ❝ [✎ 17 🕮 ] ❞

══════════ ⋆★⋆ ══════════

More books of mine

NEW CHAPTERS: SCHEDULE OF UPLOADING

Sequel for the next chapter

[lov3nerdstuff]

Voluptas Noctis Aeternae {Part 5.7}

*Severus Snape x OC*

Summary: It is the year 1983 when the ordinary life of Robin Mitchell takes a drastic turn: she is accepted into Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Despite the struggles of being a muggle-born in Slytherin, she soon discovers her passion for Potions, and even manages the impossible: gaining the favor of Severus Snape. Throughout the years, Robin finds that the not quite so ordinary Potions Professor goes from being a brooding stranger to being more than she had ever deemed possible. An ally, a mentor, a friend... and eventually, the person she loves the most. Through adventure, prophecies and the little struggles of daily life in a castle full of mysteries, Robin chooses a path for herself, an unlikely friendship blossoms into something more, and two people abandoned by the world can finally find a home.

General warnings: professor x student, blood, violence, trauma, neglectful families, bullying, cursing

Words: 5.4k

Read Part 1.1 here! All Parts can be found on the Masterlist!

______________________________

"What's this?" Robin asked before her eyes would be tempted to simply read, and intentionally kept her gaze locked with his to avoid just that.

"My reason." He stated calmly, but before Robin could even voice any of her protests, he added, "Just get over it and read, will you?"

Thus, Robin merely nodded and finally gave in to her curiosity. The crawling of her skin lingered nonetheless.

I have been lenient in the past years, but this time I need you to take care of an issue I have with the ministry. I believe you know enough people, have enough connections there. It should be easy for you, and thus the very least I can expect of you after so long. I need you to clear up the charges held against me for good, as soon as possible.

Happy birthday,

Mom

For a moment, Robin kept staring at the words as she waited for them to start making sense to her. When they didn't, she started with the only thing she understood.

"It's your birthday?" She asked in a weirdly croaky tone that was rather reflective of the disconcerting and cold irritation she felt after reading this.

"No."

"Then consider me entirely confused." Robin's brows furrowed in both concern and insecurity, and she probably conveyed just that as she looked up at Snape at last. He didn't seem uncomfortable at all, even though they were moving into yet uncharted territory.

"My mother seems to be involved in some kind of conflict with the ministry, but I have no idea what it is about. We haven't spoken a word in many years." He explained with a sigh. "But she seems to believe that I will see to it that whatever charges are held against her will be dropped."

"Will you?"

"Of course not. I have no intention to get involved in whatever business she has gotten herself into this time. Even if she seems to believe that I must."

"She, uhm… she didn't really phrase her request all that nicely."

"She never has. It seems to be a common mode of speech in pureblood families."

"Oh, so you're…?" She couldn't really bring herself to say it, and she blamed herself for sounding so surprised. It wasn't even unlikely!

He sighed again, rolled his eyes to himself about something, and then leaned back in his chair. "No. My father, unfortunately, is a muggle."

"...unfortunately?"

"I meant to say that it's unfortunate that he is my father, not that there is an issue with my father being a muggle." He clarified immediately though, as he obviously only now realized that what he'd said might actually be misunderstood. "He isn't what you would call a decent man."

"Seems like an odd couple…" Robin mused before she could help it.

"You could say that, yes. They split years ago; I haven't spoken to either since."

"So this is the first thing you hear from your mother after years of silence?"

"Yes."

The thought angered Robin with a start, and she frowned down at the paper she was still holding in her hands. Sure, her own mother wasn't perfect either, but this woman was just… horrible. Why would someone talk to him like this?! And as it seems, she had always done so. The thought filled Robin with immediate hatred for a person she didn't even know, and it urged her to act.

"Sorry if it's not my place to, but I just have to say that I can't stand this woman." She spoke in an instant, and she meant it to the very bottom of her heart. "I might not know her, but I still think she's a terrible person."

"That is the very conclusion I came to as well." He replied with a small smirk. "And the very reason why I will not help her. She has no right to demand that of me."

"She seems to believe that she does, for some reason I don't understand."

His expression fell into that of disdain, but it was not directed at Robin. "In… my childhood it was expected of me that for my birthday I give a gift to my parents. To prove my gratitude for what they sacrificed for me. It was a pathetic excuse for their own craving for recognition, and it seems that my mother remembered it just in time to wrap her demand in a veil of her own nostalgia."

Robin didn't know what to reply to that; she merely stared at him in a way that couldn't possibly convey her thoughts. What he'd just said was terribly sad on its own already, and together with everything else she was learning right now, it painted a heartbreakingly bleak picture of his childhood, and his family. Even if the fact that he actually shared all this with her was delightful, Robin was very far from happy. But she also was far from pity, because pity was for people who had lost and given in. And he was the very opposite of that.

"Why now? You said that it's not even your birthday…" She finally asked, and even though she didn't want to be inquiring for more than he was willing to share, it still was better than anything else she could have said in return.

"No, but it is my father's. That obviously is close enough, if it's not all the same anyway."

And here Robin was, thinking that her own parents didn't care. Her heart broke even more for him, and she finally understood why he'd been so upset all day. She could only imagine that hearing from someone after such a long time, especially in a way like this, brought back memories, no matter if they're good or bad. In this case, they seemed to be even worse. But he had moved past it enough to even tell her about it, which was something she still couldn't believe was happening.

"When is your birthday then?" She finally wondered, leaning her head to the side with a small smile. Maybe they could move past the darkness, but keep the honesty.

"Why do you want to know that?" He frowned, slightly doubtful but not defensive.

"I'm trying to win an argument." Her smile widened ever so slightly as his frown deepened. "Wasn't that what you said about telling people when my birthday was?"

"It was indeed, but I do not see how you could win an argument by knowing on which day I was born."

"No, but by proving to you that it's not all the same. Because to me it isn't."

"Will you stop bugging me if I tell you?"

"No." She replied easily, with a smile in return to his exaggerated eye rolling. "Where would be the point in that?"

"I was born on the ninth of January in nineteen sixty, in a town called Cokeworth in England. Are you content now?" He sighed in annoyance that might have been feigned or real, or maybe both.

"I am indeed. Was that really so difficult?"

"Yes." He stated in absolute seriousness, in honesty, and Robin immediately felt bad for pushing him into telling her. Just what she had not wanted to do.

Her eyes clearly reflected her regret, but she held his gaze nonetheless. "I… I shouldn't have asked. I'm sorry."

"I am not."

"Huh?" At that, Robin's eyebrows rose in surprise.

"I am not sorry that you asked. However I'm not used to conversing about my personal matters, nor do I usually choose to. So this really is… difficult, as you put it." He replied calmly, and Robin felt like she could finally breathe again.

"I didn't mean to be difficult."

"You challenge me, that is entirely different."

"Good different or bad different?"

"That would depend on the person you ask."

"I'm asking you."

"I wouldn't like you half as much if you wouldn't challenge me."

Robin's lips curled into an unstoppable smirk. "So you admit that you do actually like me?"

"I take that back. You are insufferable and I cannot stand you."

"You know that you like me." She couldn't help grinning, especially at his feigned annoyance. It really was reassuring on so many levels.

"Unfortunately." He sighed with a not-smirk, and Robin's heart did an instant happy dance. That he did in fact like her wasn't news, but he had never straight out admitted it before. That was enough reason for her heart to soar. "But do not believe that this… redundant discussing of my personal affairs will be a regular thing now. I was cruelly bribed with cake tonight."

"I really should bring you cake more often then."

"You can try."

"I will."

"I know." He huffed, but with the tiniest of smiles that made it rather clear that he wasn't actually opposed to the idea. Robin wouldn't push him though, not tonight and not in the future. It was just like with the sassing… there was a line that could be walked at times like this, but it should never be crossed. And just to be safe now, Robin moved a step away back into safer territory. She had learned so much about him, and he had shared more about himself tonight than in the past few years combined. That was already quite enough to turn Robin's insides into a puddle of mushy tingles.

"Do you see the dawn from in here more often?" She asked after a while, and watched the light of morning creeping through the small window more and more. It was incredibly cool toned, especially in comparison to the usual candlelight she had lived by for the past days, but it also brought a breath of serenity into the office.

"Rarely. Hardly ever."

"Neither do I. See the dawn, I mean."

"Unsurprisingly, I only ever stay up until dawn when you happen to get yourself in trouble."

"Today I didn't." Robin complained lightly with a chuckle, and the desire to go out into the courtyard to watch the sunrise bubbled up within her mind. Probably it was too cloudy for that though, especially now in December.

"Indeed. This time I kept you up all night, which hardly makes it any better, if not all the worse."

"I prefer it, actually. It makes the break of day quite the bit more enjoyable."

"Still I do not like the fact that you lost sleep because you spent the entire night helping me."

"I absolutely do not mind in the least. Not at all." Robin took her eyes off the window and looked back to Snape at last. "I would do it again any time."

"Would you now?"

"Yes. I would even be happy to." The ease of her voice that yet conveyed absolute certainty lingered in the room for a moment, as its soundless echo was louder than the silence. Snape looked like he was actually short for any decent reply for once, and Robin understood that. She didn't know what she would have wanted him to reply either.

"Will you at least promise me that you will use today to rest?" He finally asked, and Robin sighed.

"I can't. Sorry…"

"Whyever not? Do you have work to do?"

"No, but I have made another promise, and that makes it impossible to do what you ask for. I make no promises I know I cannot keep."

"What would that be about?" It wasn't an accusatory question, nor a demanding inquiry, but rather sincere curiosity, and Robin had to smile at that. She didn't have to explain herself if she didn't want to, it was her choice. Right now, they were nothing more and nothing less than two people having a chat.

"I promised Cas and Jorien that I would tutor them today, and that usually takes a while. They couldn't find decent books on their current topic, so I will have to teach them a few things myself."

"What subject?"

"Potions, actually." Robin couldn't help smiling at him, and once he raised an eyebrow she straight out laughed. "I told them not to use the textbook for assignments, so now I have to deal with the consequences of that."

"There are decent books on the current second year topic, you know that." He pointed out, but Robin's grin still didn't falter.

"I do know, and I gave them one to start with last night. But as far as I'm aware they have to turn the essay in on Monday, and I can hardly have them read all of my books before then."

"So you will teach them the topic."

"Yes."

"In my subject."

"Yes…?"

"Doesn't that count as cheating?"

"Not if you don't tell the professor." Robin replied with a smirk, and for once she got a chuckle in return. "No but seriously, I don't write their essays for them. I give them information on all subjects they come asking about, and what they do with it is their own business."

"And today you promised to give them a lesson in potions."

"Yes. Right after breakfast so that they can use the afternoon to write the essay. Speaking of breakfast, I believe it has already started… Should we be going?"

"Since neither you nor I are obviously going to find any rest until afternoon, we might as well."

With a smile, Robin rose to her feet and together they made their way towards the great hall in comfortable silence. However before they passed through the huge doorway and thereby into the line of sight of other people, Snape turned to Robin once more.

"Seeing as I obviously could never convince you to break your promise to your roommates, I was wondering if you, perhaps, would be willing to include a few other students in your tutoring today. I happen to have three or four other second years in mind who could use some extra help with the current topic in my class."

"I… have never tried to tutor so many people before, especially not people I don't even know. But sure, if I'm gonna talk about the topic already, I guess I don't mind if a few more people profit from hearing it. If you really think that's a good idea…"

"I do indeed. I shall see to it that the individuals I have in mind will find their way to my classroom after breakfast; it should be preferable to any other place in the castle for this occasion. And I have work to attend to in my office anyway."

Robin's lips curled into a smile before she knew, then into a smirk as she caught on to what he was doing there. "Sneaky." She said, and didn't even try to hide her amusement. "I'll gladly tutor a few more people, and I'll very gladly use your classroom for it. But you know, you could have just asked if you wanted to keep an eye on what I teach them. Or simply admit that you're curious."

Snape gave her a glare that did nothing but make her smirk even more, then he turned back towards the door with a not-smirk of his own. "You do spend too much time with me indeed."

"Not nearly enough." Robin wasn't sure if he still heard her words or not, as he pushed the doors open to make his way towards the head table with the perfect facade of cold indifference he always seemed to wear around everyone but her.

But it didn't matter if he had heard her after all, and Robin made her way towards her own table with a lingering smirk. If he wanted to see her taking over his classroom, she would gladly do him the favor. But first, coffee.

_______________

Sooner than it seemed like it should, the day that was long anticipated for most, and long dreaded for few finally arrived. The day of the New Year's ball… a nuisance as always, especially during breakfast and lunch, for the solemn topic of discussion seemed to be who went with whom, and who would be wearing what. Had Robin not been so determined to keep Snape company again, she would actually have fled the castle for the day. Asked for permission to camp in the gardens, perhaps.

But she had decided that she would attend for his sake, and this year she had come somewhat prepared in terms of clothing at least. During summer she had not felt like it would be necessary to actually go out and buy a suitable dress, which she did kind of regret by now, but instead she'd packed what she had also worn to the conference: the green blouse and the high-waisted skirt. It had seemed like a good idea back then, and even if it seemed a bit underwhelming now, Robin figured that it wouldn't actually matter. She'd just go sit in her corner again, and nobody would see what she was wearing anyhow.

So that's what she did once she arrived down in the great hall, finding herself an empty table way off to the side once again. Nobody paid her attention, and she in return paid close attention to everyone once she was seated. The procedure of the night had been changed in hindsight to last year, and once Dumbledore had made an official welcoming speech, the first dance was announced and only then the music actually started. And as it seemed, the dancing lessons had paid off, for the floor was literally crowded with couples eager to partake in this first dance.

That was also when Snape found Robin, only moments after Dumbledore's speech –as the only 'official' part of the night– had ended with applause. Without a word he sat down next to her as if it was the most natural thing in the world, and it actually felt like just that indeed. For a while they simply listened to the music in silence, for appropriateness' sake while the first dance was still taking place. But when the last notes passed and the overall chatter in the room picked up in noise instead, they went along with it.

"You are wearing the same… pieces you wore to the conference last summer." He stated first, and Robin let out a humored huff.

"You actually remember that?"

"Only because I received various letters which clearly pointed out the respective addressor's opinion on your choice of garments."

"Oh…" Robin felt the heat rising to her cheeks immediately. Yeah, she remembered the variety of reactions as well.

"Most of them were… positive, in case you care to know. Entirely inappropriate, but positive."

"Inappropriate? In which way?" She couldn't help asking, even if she had a rough idea of what he meant. She hadn't forgotten the weird gazes of the man who had been sitting next to her at the conference.

"The way that will not have me say out loud a single word of what was written in those letters." He grumbled more to himself than to Robin, and her cheeks heated up even more in a weird kind of discomfort. But at least it seemed to make him equally uncomfortable.

"I can go and change if what I'm wearing is inappropriate." Robin suggested with a shrug, and tried to force the heat off her face with her own feigned casualness.

"Don't. You do look very… appropriate."

"Alright…"

He didn't reply, and neither did Robin know what to say to break the for once rather uncomfortable silence that had now fallen between them. Compliments weren't his thing, if that wasn't obvious enough, and Robin didn't even know how she would accept one in the first place if it ever came to that.

"Change of topic?" She thus suggested, with a hopeful half smile.

"Please." He sighed immediately in return, and Robin's smile widened into a full one that reached her eyes as well.

For the next three hours they talked about anything and everything, or sometimes not at all for a while, but mostly they made fun of the other people in the room. And just like last year, just like before, nobody actually paid them any attention. People were dancing, chatting with their friends or eating canapes, and generally having a good time by any common standards. They had no mind for the two distant figures in the corner who came up with new creative and artistic ways to mock the people around them by the minute. Which probably was a good thing.

At some point around eleven, Robin stood up from the table for the first time in hours to get them a drink. Not because she'd been eager to mingle with the crowd at the buffet, hell no, but because she had lost a bet about how many times a particularly clumsy Gryffindor boy on the dancefloor would step onto his date's feet. Robin had put a guess on three times, while Snape had been entirely convinced that the boy would step onto his date's dress, not onto her feet. Unfortunately he had been right, and thus Robin made her way through the hall now, in the hope to be back at her table as soon as possible. Yet, she hadn't even reached the buffet when she was stopped in her track.

"Ah, Miss Mitchell!" Professor Dumbledore smiled at her as he very intentionally stepped into her path. "I hope you are enjoying the ball? If I'm not mistaken, I haven't seen you dancing even a single time."

"Good evening, sir." She replied politely, even if she hoped that the conversation would be over before it even got started. "I'm enjoying the ball, but I'd rather stay at my table though."

"I must admit, I was under the impression that you would be here with Mister Weasley tonight."

"Who?" Robin frowned before she could think better of it. She most definitely wasn't attending with anyone, and she didn't plan to change that. She was only here to keep Snape company.

"Professor McGonagall told me that you danced with him during her lesson, and that quite successfully as well. She seems to have gotten the impression that you two would be a good match."

Oh bloody hell… so that's who he was talking about; the redheaded Gryffindor boy. Robin had no clue how McGonagall had gotten the idea that they would go to the ball together, but the thought alone made her stomach churn. Staffroom gossip was nasty. "Professor McGonagall was wrong, then. She must've been misled by the fact that we didn't trip over our own two feet like most of the other dunderheads. Students, I mean."

"I see." The headmaster smiled that stupid small smile again, and Robin wanted to know what he really thought. But he was as enigmatic as ever. "A merely professional encounter by chance then?"

"If you want to phrase it like that, yes." Robin's frown stayed on her face as she answered, and the tiny hairs in her neck rose as a cold heat ran down her spine. She crossed her arms over her chest to suppress the shiver. Why was he trying to converse with her in the first place? Surely he must have better things to do.

"Please excuse my curiosity, Miss Mitchell, I merely could not help noticing how much time you spend not only with additional studies beyond the school curriculum, but now also by helping students in the grades below you. Some teachers seem to give you a surprising amount of additional work, and it left me wondering if you are given enough time to pursue your own interests as well. Social ones, in particular."

Robin wanted to scoff at him, but she bit the insides of her cheeks because she knew that she shouldn't. Social interests? Did he mean dating? Friends? His out of context inquiring made her wish to get away from here grow even stronger, and she instinctively thought that her personal matters were none of his business. Unfortunately, they probably were… especially if it concerned the work that was given to her by his staff. Just give him an answer he wants to hear and it will be over. "I certainly have everything I need, sir. The-… "

"Excuse me for interrupting your conversation so rudely, but I would have to steal Miss Mitchell from you now, headmaster." Snape's deep voice came out of nowhere, and brought an immediate wave of relief to Robin's entire being as he came to stand next to her. Soundless in his movement as ever, he practically radiated a calm collectedness that erased the discomfort of everything else. And yet the relief turned into electric excitement when he placed a hand on the small of her back. Gods, how could something so minor be so reassuring and yet so… exhilarating?

"I see." Dumbledore's smile widened for a second to look almost sincerely amused. "Don't let me stop you then, Severus. I believe I have kept Miss Mitchell from enjoying her evenings for long enough." With a courteous nod and the very same enigmatic smile as always, he turned around and then disappeared in the crowd at last.

Robin let out a breath she didn't know she was holding, trying to clear her mind, but her focus remained on the hand that was still resting on her back. Snape's touch was scorching, even through the many layers of fabric, and she had to remind herself to breathe.

"Come." He merely said, and his hand stayed in place even as he led Robin out of the great hall.

"It's still a good while until midnight, isn't it? Is something wrong?" She finally inquired once they slowed down in the candlelit hallway. At least she could speak again now, without her heartbeat filling the silence between every word.

"You looked uncomfortable." He replied, but obviously tried to keep his voice neutral as if simply stating a fact. "I thought I might as well put an end to that."

"I desperately wanted to get away from there, actually. The crowd, I mean, the conversation… the entire situation probably. Thank you for saving me." Robin smiled as she let him lead her down into the dungeons even though she had no idea what he was up to. It didn't matter; she'd gladly go along with about anything right now. Only once they stopped in the middle of a crossing of hallways, his hand finally dropped from her back and Robin immediately missed the subtle touch. Even if its echo lingered on her skin like an imprint.

"You should go and get your warmest robes, it is dreadfully cold out in the wind." He stated as he took a step further into one of the hallways. "Meet me back here in five minutes." Without another word, he walked on and away, leaving Robin alone in the crossing with a frown on her face. It would be another forty minutes until midnight, and the courtyard was mostly shielded from the wind anyway… but she might just as well question him about his plans after she had done as she was told for once. He'd saved her out of the uncomfortable situation with Dumbledore after all. Without wasting more of her now barely four minutes, Robin made for her room that she resided in alone over the holidays, as always, and spontaneously decided that she would change entirely. Instead of the skirt and blouse, she put on her beloved black jeans and a warm jumper, then her boots and at last her winter robes and Slytherin scarf. One minute left… She locked her door with a wordless spell on the go and then ran back through the dorm, through the common room, through the hallways, and finally came to stand in their designated meeting point at the very same time as him. Robin's chest heaved visibly, and yet she made an effort not to pant while the ringing in her ears slowly faded. Geez, running just wasn't for her. Never had been.

Snape merely raised an eyebrow at her in amusement. "Why the hurry?"

"You said be back in five minutes!" She complained, and the lingering rasp of her voice clearly gave away that she didn't engage in such physical activities all too often.

"Since when do you actually listen to what I tell you to do?"

"Good point. I tried, for once."

"You used the time to change; obviously five minutes is fairly little time to do so."

"Well yeah… Whatever we're going to do now, I didn't want to do it in a skirt." Robin shrugged, and her lungs finally stopped burning with every breath she took. "Skirts and cold weather don't exactly work in any combination for me. I'd rather be warm than well dressed."

"Come on then. I would prefer to be gone before the crowd of students takes over the hallways." He said, and they made their way back to where they had come from, back to the entrance hall of the castle. Yet, instead of the great hall, they ventured out into the courtyard, and bloody hell, it was cold indeed. Robin shivered immediately as the cold air blew into her face, and she was only glad that she had changed. Definitely worth the run.

"What was the headmaster's business with you?" Snape finally wondered as they sauntered through the arcades.

"Are you asking or demanding an answer?"

"Asking. I haven't demanded an answer from you in a long time, and I have no intention to do so in the future."

"I appreciate that, just so you know." Robin smiled, mainly because she knew it was true what he said. Then her smile faded as she went to explain. "Professor Dumbledore and Professor McGonagall were under the impression that I would be attending the ball with someone tonight, and I assured him that they were very much mistaken."

"And whom did they have in mind?"

"I honestly can't even remember his name." Robin said in subtle annoyance at the headmaster for being so assuming indeed. "Some redhead in Gryffindor. I danced with him during McGonagall's lesson, and obviously our common not-failing led her to believe that we were… better acquainted. A lot better."

"Are you?"

"No! As I said, I don't even know his name nor did I care to find out. He was a decent partner for the dance practice, after I snapped at him for being an arse, but that's it. I really didn't see the point in talking to him any more than necessary."

"I can imagine. Vividly."

"Imagine what?"

"You, snapping at someone for being an arse." He said, undoubtedly humored, and when Robin looked up at him he actually was smirking openly for once.

"Am I that rude usually or where does the vivid impression come from?" She asked with a laugh in return, just as they reached the far corner of the courtyard. The point where the wooden bridge began. With a start, Robin remembered how they had talked about coming here last year on new year's eve, but never again since. And still he had remembered it somehow, as this clearly was just the place he was leading her.

"You snapped at me for being an arse before." He replied easily, still in amusement, and Robin knew exactly which instance he was talking about.

"I won't apologise for that." She said with a glance at him out of the corners of her eyes. This conversation could take a turn very quickly from this point, and she could only hope that it wouldn't.

"I wouldn't want you to." He stated, almost with a smile, then his expression turned back into neutral territory. "However I still have no idea why Professor Dumbledore would make an assumption about your… company, for tonight."

"He said he was worried that I didn't get to spend enough time doing that pathetic stuff other people my age fancy doing. That, perhaps, you give me too much extra work."

"He said that?"

"In other words, but yes."

"And what did you reply?"

"I was going to tell him that I'm perfectly happy with the way things are, but you came to my rescue before I could make that abundantly clear to him."

"Are you though?"

"Am I what?"

"Happy." He spoke the word like it had a foreign taste to him, careful yet deliberate in a way that conveyed an invisible layer of meaning Robin didn't understand. But it was the question itself that surprised her to a point where she was short of any reply. Thus, for now, she didn't say anything at all.

______________________________

Tags:

@ayamenimthiriel @chibi-lioness @t-sunnyside @alex4555 @purpledragonturtles @istrugglewithphilosophy

General Tags:

@its-remy-not-ratatouille @wegingerangelica @dreary-skies-stuff @wiczer @lotus-eyedindiangoddess @theweirdlunatic @caretheunicorn @kthemarsian @lady-of-lies @strawberrysandcream @noplacelikehome77 @theoneanna @mishaandthebrits @i-am-a-mes @nonsensicalobsessions @exygon @hiddles-lobotomy @rjohnson1280 @annwhojumps @spookycatqueen @salempoe @headoverhiddleston @fanfiction-and-stress @createdfromblue @halszka-potter @thecreatiivecorner @themusingsofmany @kinghiddlestonanddixon @scorpionchild81 @crystal-28 @adefectivedetective @lokis-girl-in-mischief @booklover2929 @iamverity @lovesmesomehiddles @akk4rin @whitewolfandthefox @stuckupstucky @kassablanca13 @delightfulheartdream

[asras-damn-smirk]

If you're still doing 5 word prompts, can you do "I want you to know" for fluff boi Asra please?

[heeey! this is kinda long. my love for this fluff cutie knows no bounds. hope you enjoy!]

Asrasits across from Nadi, the table between them full of succulenttreats he’s had a hankering for since stepping foot in her chambers.Though his focus isn’t on the food, despite her telling him to spoilhimself. He knows he should be attentive, but his mind is elsewhere.Even though he’s gotten better about being able to be apart from you,he couldn’t remove you from his thoughts completely. Warmth builds inhis chest as he recalls the urgent yet sweet kiss you’d given himbefore pushing him out of the shop.

However,he can’t help wondering. Why the hurry? It was almost like you wantedhim out of the way. Also, you were insistent on having Faust’scompany…which isn’t too odd. Faust has always been a constantcompanion to you. What makes him suspicious is that she never turnsdown a trip to see Nadi. She gets all her favorite snacks from her,after all.

Justwhat are you two planning?

“Iknow that look, Asra,” Nadi declares from the lip of her tea cup.Her eyes glitter with amusement as she sips. “Your mind is on yourbeloved, isn’t it?”

Ablush darkens his cheeks. “I guess I’m that obvious, huh?”

Sheraises an elegant eyebrow, as if saying that he shouldn’t thinkotherwise. Asra shifts his weight onto his hands when he leans back,smiling. Of course he’s just an open book to her. Perhaps he shouldseek out her advice. Nadi has always been a wonderful source ofsupport for him.

“Sorryfor not paying attention. It’s just…I’ve never seen them so eagerto send me out before,” he explains, smile turning into anuncertain grim line. He stirs his lukewarm tea with a spoon, castinga forlorn gaze at his reflection. “It makes me think I’ve gottenclingy with them all over again and maybe this was their way oftelling me. Perhaps I’m imagining it, but I don’t know what I shoulddo.”

Returningto those days where he was consumed by his love for you is hisdeepest fear. Ever since he’s made a promise to you and himself thathe won’t be so dependent on you emotionally. There would be timeswhere he’d wake up in a cold sweat because he’d have nightmares thatyou’d left him due to him worrying over you too much or being tooreliant on your presence. Despite him doing nothing of the sort, Asrastill frets over the thought that he could lose you at any time.

“MayI ask you something?” Nadi asks, violet tresses falling over hershoulder. When he nods, she puts down her cup and leans forward,interlocking her fingers. “Given what you’ve been through together,don’t you think they wouldn’t waste time in telling you how theyfeel?”

Asragives another wordless nod, mind traveling back to the past oncemore. His heart gives a painful twinge as he revisits bad memories.Yes, you’ve both been through the worst and that has strengthenedmany bonds between you, communication included. If you had a problemwith anything he’s done, he’d usually be aware of it. Either becauseyou told him or he’d already know due to how familiar he is with yourbody language. So there’s no way he could miss any discomfort youhad.

Right?

Thetea cup returns to Nadi’s hands. The ring on her finger gleams in away that reminds him of your smile. “It seems like you have youranswer,” she says. “If your thoughts are so occupied by them, Idon’t see why you should remain here. Go to them.” A smirk aftershe takes a long sip of her tea.  “Who knows? There might be asurprise in store.”    

Hiseyes widen. The lilt in her voice suggests that she’s more informedthan she lets on. Leave it to his close friend to plot around him ifit means him getting the surprise of his life. If she’s involved,then maybe there isn’t too much to worry about than he thought. Thefear swirling in his gut disperses, snuffed out by a morelighthearted suspicion. His own smirk makes an appearance when heleans forward.

Histone is warm and playful. “Nadi.”

“Hmm?”

“Youknow something.”

Sheclears her throat theatrically at the accusation, acting as thoughshe’s miffed by her eager tongue.  “Oh dear. I’ve entertained youenough, it seems. At least take some refreshments before you go?”

Asrais already gone.

Heuses magic to hasten his trip back to the shop, nearly sprinting hisway there. Footsteps quiet as he steps inside, he scans the entrywayfor activity. You’re nowhere to be seen. The lantern has been putout, the only sources of light seeming to be miniature paper versionsthat hang from the ceiling. Decorations? Anticipation quickens hispulse. You’ve been busy. Just what is the occasion?

Decidingagainst calling you and Faust, Asra listens for any sign of yourpresence. He hears the sound of your voice coming from the backroomand follows it, staying right outside of the curtain. Peeking aroundit just a bit allows him to see the loveliest sight he’s ever laideyes on. You’re sitting on a pile of pillows, dressed in a vibrantred outfit—much like the one you wore at the Masquerade years ago.You’ve taken to wearing the color more and he hasn’t stopped beingeven more head over heels when you do. Faust is with you and sheseems to be wearing something he can’t identify on her head. Shewaits as you speak to her.

“Asra…eventhough I’ve said it countless times before, I want you to know,”you declare, much to his confusion. “I want you to know how muchyour love and devotion means to me. You’ve been so strong for themost of us—”

“Both!”

“Bothof us! You’re right, Faust. I thought I’d have this down already! Howam I ever going to propose?”

Fausttilts her head, the tiny white wig she’s wearing nearly flopping tothe pillow she’s perched on. Is she supposed to be him? Asra would’vestifled a laugh, but he’s so touched and full of adoration. So thisis what you’re up to? A proposal? And to think he thought himself anuisance—

Aproposal.

Asragasps, hit with a long overdue realization. He’d been so overtaken byrelief that he failed to take in the gravity of the situation.You…you want to marry him? He knows that almost everyone in townhad considered you both a married couple, what with being in eachother’s company often. But…to actually make it official seemeddaunting yet wonderful to him.

“Asra!”you exclaim, having spotted him. Many emotions fly across your face,disappointment and shock standing out the most. “Nadia said you’dbe home a little later! Oh…oh, no. How long have you been there?”

“Longenough. I’m sorry,” he replies, his expression apologetic.

Youbring your arms around him. “It’s okay. Just…if you don’t mind,could I finish what I was saying?”

Asranods, his smile bright as you link your fingers with his. He might’veoverheard part of your proposal, but you figure he’d be delighted tohear it regardless. Your jittery nerves are apparent in the way youhold yourself, but he kisses the back of your hand to encourage you.This is what you love about him. He never ceases in showing how he’shere for you. You’re so fortunate to have him and it’s your deepestdesire that he’ll be yours for as long as possible.

“Eventhough I’ve said it countless times before, I want you to know. Iwant you to know how much your love and devotion means to me. You’vebeen so strong for the both of us, on many occasions and I’m sograteful for that. For you.”

Judgingby the tears forming in his eyes, Asra senses the gratitude you havefor him in every syllable. You hope that he feels as warm and lightas you do. After placing a kiss upon his hand, you put it againstyour cheek to nuzzle it.

“Ilove you so much,” you continue. “I love how understanding andkind you are. You don’t hesitate to give. So I’d like to take a pageout of your book and give myself to you…” You take out a ring andpresent it to him. The jewel encrusted into it is the same type ofjewel found on his necklace. Your lover makes a surprised noise, awatery chuckle leaving him. “Asra, will you please marry me?”

Hisresponse is immediate and jubilant. “Yes! Of course I will.”

Hetakes your face in his hands and kisses you. Once, twice, threetimes. You both break out in a peal of giddy laughter, hands strokingthrough hair and gently caressing skin. Once you find it in yourselfto part, you slip the ring on his finger.  He seems to glow with joynow that he’ll soon be your spouse. You kiss him again, on the cheekwhile Faust coils around your joined hands.

“Married?”she asks, excited.

“Soon,”you both reply.

You’re lost in each other’s gazes, as eager as she is.

[punkscowardschampions]

Bea & Bronson

Bea: Hey Bronson: You don't have to Bea: I do, though Bea: it's important, your feelings are important, I acted otherwise, so you have to know that's not how it is, how I see things Bronson: Yours are too Bronson: I know you weren't seeing things clear last night Bronson: Call it forgotten Bea: Fuck that Bea: I know there's no forgetting Bea: and I know I've broken your trust and there's no getting it back Bea: but please, let me rebuild something Bea: I only did it because you're important to me Bronson: important in what way though Bronson: we aren't gonna be that Bea: No Bea: not like that, I don't want that Bea: I don't even want what I did, not really, I know that's just words when I did it but I swear to fucking God Bea: you're my best friend, my only friend, frankly Bea: it's a distancing thing...you know Bea: make you like him, put you in that box, that way I can see it as a good thing when I lose you Bea: but you don't deserve to be tarred with that brush, so I am, I'm really sorry Bronson: I've been around C & R long enough to see some fucked up boxes Bronson: and not walk off Bronson: I'm not doing that to you Bea: It probably won't be you Bea: that'd be me too Bea: I can't sustain shit Bea: I did the same to them, you know Bea: but they don't care so I didn't have to feel bad about it, got to be selfish Bronson: and they never bragged about it in my earshot...whoa Bronson: blessing or curse Bronson: I mean, if I was gonna, you'd get first dibs, but let's not make it weirder like Bea: Guess they give enough of a shit about you to not put that weird on you Bea: little did they know...ha Bronson: I mean they have made some offers over the years Bronson: But we were a lot younger Bronson: And the flashbacks only occur sometimes lol Bea: Didn't mean to add to the PTSD Bronson: You're off the christmas card list but you can still come for drinks Bronson: Nobody needs the newsletter and cringey family photo really Bea: Bron Bea: stop making it a joke if it ain't Bronson: I don't know how else to deal Bronson: You're not a club random Bea: You could tell me what you wanna tell them Bea: might help Bronson: I don't see it, you didn't have those motives Bea: Wanna violate my trust somehow Bea: hack me Bronson: Sure Bronson: Scope out that inbox Bea: go for it, serious Bea: #exposed Bronson: Am I gonna go further down the PTSD rabbit hole by catching sight of your nudes? Bronson: You can delete but they won't go Bea: I mean Bea: perhaps best to swerve my texts then Bea: uni emails Bea: ooh the scandal Bronson: Fix your grades while I'm there Bronson: 100 or nothing Bea: 🎯 Bea: Too good, you Bronson: Then, you'll owe me solidly, there's my angle Bronson: 👀 Bronson: Express your gratitude in a manner we won't have to run from and everything's normal again Bea: Anything you want Bea: WANT being the keyword there Bea: no funny business ever again Bronson: Swear on what you hold dearest Bronson: I can make those grades go down easy peasy Bea: Hmm, myself? Bronson: Those are my terms Bronson: 'Cause I can't stutter a no out don't mean a yes 😂 remember that going forward Bea: DON'T Bronson: too soon Bea: always too soon to be assaulting people Bronson: I'll stop smacking you with these punchlines in a minute like Bronson: Living with those two scallys too long Bronson: Not too soon to think about moving out Bea: You'd miss the mess you bless Bea: having your stuff knicked, constant undesirable and unknown visitors, all the noise and drama Bronson: I'll miss you if you do one after this botched reconciliation Bronson: You're my fave hot mess they ever brought back, Judes Bea: Don't make me cry Bea: this mascara is 22quid a pop Bronson: We'd be close to even Bronson: I'm worth at least that Bea: How rude of me to suggest otherwise Bea: but the foundation, the blush Bea: adding up Bronson: 💸 Bronson: Gotta get Ronaldo to teach you everything she knows about 🖐 discounts Bea: I think John Lewis would see her coming from a mile off, babe Bronson: There's a reason I have no fucking idea what one looks like inside Bea: like you're inside a upper middle class home but the bitch is also selling avon Bronson: 😂 Bronson: Take me there girl Bronson: I wanna see this Bea: Get you a pot of tea and a slice of something nice if you behave Bronson: I can be bought Bea: No judgment Bea: can't we all Bronson: Bring me coffee and all will be forgiven like Bronson: I've got the headache to end all 'em Bea: 😱 you? never! Bea: surprised you're not caning the red bulls already you animal Bronson: I would be if there was any left Bronson: hot commodity in this household Bea: 🤢 you are garbage people Bronson: You missed a trick not calling us monsters 😂 Bronson: It's early but you're a 🤓 Bea: I'm not gonna stoop to such levels Bea: any time of the day Bronson: Not gonna say your forgiveness depends on it Bea: Good Bea: not gonna change who I am, babe Bronson: Can't either Bea: Noted Bronson: But I'm not trying to change you, note that Bea: I know Bronson: Your man might Bronson: But I'm not going that deep into your inbox Bea: At least I don't have to tell him Bea: unless I drunkenly did Bea: bitch you better not have Bronson: I remember taking your phone at some point Bronson: If you're drunk enough to let me that's trouble Bea: 😬 Bea: Oh great Bronson: Get me his phone and it'll be like nothing ever happened Bea: idk if my skills of persuasion are gonna match his rage rn Bea: or pay for the first class postage Bronson: Quick trip to Ireland to buy my forgiveness and do some petty thievery could be a plan Bea: how is this for your forgiveness Bea: its entirely for me Bea: too pure Bronson: I need a- uh- Bronson: Guinness and Lucky Charms Bea: 😏 as cultured as I expected Bronson: Whoa there, I've seen that Leprechaun film with Rachel from Friends in it Bronson: Putting the cult in culture lol Bronson: 😂 Bea: Oh God Bea: 🤓 for all things trash Bronson: Blame the trash queen herself Bronson: A slut for shite horror Bea: I'll take great delight in telling her her Mum is just the same Bronson: Start saving for a headstone now I will Bea: she's gotta face facts some day Bronson: She'd sooner spite her face violently Bronson: We all know it Bea: 🤞 Bea: whaddya think I'm aiming for Bronson: Not to get Charlie about it but peas in a pod you two Bea: how dare you Bronson: face them faces, Judy baby Bea: Dick Bea: Now either way, I prove your point Bea: 😒 Bronson: You might be a smarty pants but I'm a smart arse like Bea: think of some witty retorts for Fraze then and go at it Bea: 'cos I can't face that yet Bronson: Time to build another fort and hide you in it Bea: gonna have to take up permanent residence at this fucking rate Bea: kick Tommy out of my old box room, that's not my graduate plan Bronson: Shack up with you like you're my actual missus Bronson: bedsits are very affordable Bronson: leave Fraze in the dust and forget the awkward convo looming Bea: Ha Bea: not exactly the plan either Bea: as much as I LOVE what you lads have done with the place 😽 Bronson: I'm not as house trained as poshos need theirs to be but not the pup they treat me like Bronson: We'd manage on our own, hun Bronson: love conquers all Bea: 💘 Bea: You're ridiculous Bronson: You need me Bronson: Too sensible by half Bea: 😏 Not gonna deny or accuse you of mixed messages BUT Bronson: Victim blaming isn't the way back into anyone's good books, love 😂 Bea: 🤷 Bea: don't want you to get the wrong idea Bronson: My ideas are fixed Bronson: No changing this mind Bea: that impenetrable firewall, I get it Bronson: Yeah Bea: Don't even be impressed by my nerd talk then, bitch Bronson: You can better Bronson: And we're trying to swerve pillow talk Bea: Look, I can't help being the best k Bronson: Back at you Bronson: Hard life being irresistible and unattainable like but I'm styling it out as effortless Bea: Ahh Bea: the one goal I can never reach Bronson: You're up there for me Bronson: If we stick together you've done it Bea: Safe to say I proved that I can't Bea: whore that I am Bronson: You're my whore Bronson: Stick around Bea: Who could say no? Bea: Such a charmer Bea: can't go in my inbox nevermind home anyway Bronson: Say the word and I'll clear it or pack a bag Bronson: Whichever Bea: Cheers, Bron Bea: what's the morning after without some drama to sort Bea: be at a loose end without it Bronson: Rather wipe your texts than clear up after the motley two Bronson: Disgusting Bea: Eurgh Bea: Don't even wanna think about them Bronson: How strong are the flashbacks? Bronson: I don't wanna think about that Bea: Why did you ask then 😂 Bronson: I'm a caring son of a bitch Bronson: And nosy Bea: Fair and fair Bea: wasn't that bad but not needing to repeat, is the answer Bea: but keep that on the DL Bea: not having them think I'M more repulsive than they are Bronson: I would but I feel like R's got that tattooed on her cause its such a legit review Bronson: Revolving door for her lack of repeat custom Bea: Well Bea: 'cept one Bronson: Let's not start Bronson: Enough of a headache without going there Bea: 2nd that Bronson: Onward to John Lewis Bronson: How much scandal can follow us around there realistically Bronson: We're well safe Bea: unlikely they're gonna want us to stock 'em up on overpriced knitwear Bronson: Trying to sell that on for anything but a loss would be an even worse headache Bronson: It's a no from me Bea: aw but you'd look adorable Bea: and sexless, more importantly Bronson: Would I though? Bronson: Or would I look quality in a bit of salmon pink Bronson: Trying to make me a target for the older crowd so I wouldn't turn you down next time, is it? Bea: ��🖕 Bea: nice bit of argyle Bea: golf chinos Bronson: 🏌 Bronson: a look Bea: if you wanna be some daddy's caddy Bronson: And risk taking Charlie's gig Bea: you know i know he knows he's past his prime Bronson: Yeah but I'm not trying to take his place in my mine Bea: Your loss booboo Bronson: Theirs Bronson: My daddy issues don't go that hard Bea: Worst luck Bronson: Like in the rankings I'm the worst horse to bet on if you want that action, dads Bronson: Pay my bills and get nothing back if that's your deal otherwise its a strike out Bea: save all this time I'm wasting on uni, eh Bronson: I haven't got a leg to stand on agreeing cause I'm still showing up myself Bronson: Half the time Bea: 👏 Bea: get you Bronson: someone's gotta show up to tell the rest to turn the computers off and on again Bronson: be a hero Bea: ⭐ for you Bronson: High five Bronson: We're killing it Bea: gotta slay in at least one area Bea: even if the rest is going to shit Bronson: I can't tell you not to feel bad about last night but I am Bea: I'm glad we're alright Bronson: You gotta get right by talking to freckles though Bronson: Rip off the plaster Bea: Yeah Bea: John Lewis first though, eh Bea: cheer myself with expensive crap when it all goes tits Bronson: Return it when the guilt kicks in Bronson: Easy fix for that fuck up Bea: If only everything had that 30-day return policy Bronson: We have to try on the most ridiculous shit they have Bronson: Guaranteed cheer up Bronson: Nothing's better than taking the piss outta me so I'm told Bea: 😂 sounds good Bea: though i can turn a look with anything Bronson: There she is Bronson: I'll meet you there but you have to walk in with me so I don't get trailed round the shop like the scum I come from Bea: wear your nicest hoodie please Bronson: Never dressing like a dosser when I'm meeting my lady Bea: so 😍 babe Bronson: Deffo