#i can’t wait to dress up as a ring leader

[edward-cullens-ice-pp]

teya aka @strange-aeons announced dashcon 2 at the end of a 2 hour video about the disaster of dashcon and i’ve got to say…

when do we register?

[sinswithpleasure]

Night-time Play

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Thanks to @iznsfw for beta-ing <3

Inspiration:

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“Unnie—!”

Chaewon can’t hold back her whine when Sakura’s hands glide across her body, right over her ass. The wet heat between her legs only grows when the older girl squeezes the flesh in her palms, over the cloth of Chaewon’s panties. 

“Shh, Chaewonnie, you wouldn’t want the others to wake up, would you?” Sakura pulls her group leader closer to her. The younger girl straddles her, hovering just above her lap, knees on either side of her legs. Sakura leans against the headboard of her bed. Both girls are in their underwear, clothes discarded to the side.

The reminder Sakura gives has Chaewon biting her lip to muffle her moans. The younger girl grips her older member’s shoulders as an outlet for her need, and Sakura only giggles. 

“So eager, Chaewonnie. Do you need me that badly?” 

“Y-Yes, unnie, I do!” Chaewon can’t reply any faster—she wants, no, needs Sakura’s fingers where it matters the most. She needs the older girl to push her panties to the side, shove her long fingers into her pussy, and fuck her until she sees stars. Yet, Sakura doesn’t think the same—she’s taking her time with her leader: teasing her is all she’s doing. 

“Patience is a virtue, Chaewonnie. I think you can wait. Can you?” 

Sakura’s firm, yet teasing tone leaves Chaewon even wetter. She’s wondering if she should act out, if she should be the brat she is. Maybe Sakura would punish her, spank her. It’s been a while since she’s been mar—“Oh f—Unnie!”

During Chaewon’s distraction, Sakura’s hands roam up from the younger girl’s ass. They’re right over Chaewon’s bra now, and Sakura fondles them in her palm softly before she reaches beneath the cups to touch Chaewon directly. Sakura’s warm hands only add fuel to Chaewon’s lust. 

“Unnie, please!” Chaewon opts to act out just a bit more. It might work, after all. 

“Shut up, Chaewonnie, or I’ll get dressed and leave.” Sakura gives her a second warning. “I can take care of myself, but you can’t without me, and we both know that.” 

Point taken—the last time Chaewon got off without Sakura’s permission, she was forced to edge for a week straight—the worst week of her life. 

“Good girl. Now, let unnie take care of you.”

Sakura draws her hands out of Chaewon’s bra. The younger girl almost whimpers at the loss of contact, but she forces herself to keep quiet. Chaewon’s disappointment turns into happiness a second later when the Japanese girl pulls her bra down to expose her bare breasts, her nipples taut in arousal. Sakura wastes no time in taking one into her mouth, eagerly sucking on her leader’s chest and drawing a soft moan from her. Her hands don’t stay idle either—one returns to her ass, and the other plays with Chaewon’s free nipple, which renders the younger girl a whimpering mess. 

“God, you sound so good, Chaewonnie…” Sakura giggles as she pulls her lips away from the younger’s slick nipple to give her a soft kiss. “You’re probably so wet for me, hm?”

The younger girl eagerly nods, and Sakura laughs. Chaewon could be so adorable. 

“I’m feeling nice today, so…” The hand on Chaewon’s ass slides over to a bare thigh, before Sakura flips it over to cup the younger girl between her legs, over her wet heat. “Mm, you weren’t lying, Chaewonnie. Already so wet for unnie.” Sakura runs a finger right over Chaewon’s clothed slit, her skin damp with arousal. “Such a good girl.”

“Yes, I’m unnie’s good girl!” Chaewon keens at the praise. She loves it when Sakura calls her that. 

“And good girls deserve rewards.” Sakura deftly pushes Chaewon’s panties to the side, and the younger girl gasps out loud when she penetrates her with her middle and ring fingers, down to the hilt. “Say thank you, Chaewonnie.” 

“Thank you, unnie!” The younger girl half-speaks, half-moans her reply as her older member begins to thrust her fingers into her. She opts not to speak anymore, just focusing on the pleasure she enjoys from the older girl’s fingers as they rub against her slick walls. Sakura begins to increase the tempo of the thrusts, which leaves Chaewon softly moaning over and over. The older girl presses her lips against her younger groupmate to muffle the moans, though the chaste kiss soon turns into anything but—tongues swirl, moans escape from the gaps, and Chaewon is actively grinding her hips down in the air, eager for Sakura to fuck her harder. Sakura’s fingers and palm are covered in slick—the younger girl is always so messy—but she doesn’t mind. Chaewon’s messiness is just one of the things that makes her so hot.

“Unnie, I… I’m getting close already…” A full blush envelopes Chaewon’s face at the admission. She grinds down against Sakura’s fingers, begging for more. “I… I need more, please.”

“More, mm?” Sakura grins. “Sure.”

Chaewon thinks she might’ve bit off more than she could chew when Sakura penetrates her with four fingers. The stretch has her squealing in surprise, which Sakura muffles with another kiss. 

“I know you can take it, Chaewonnie. Keep it quiet for me, will you? Good girl.”

Chaewon struggles to keep herself silent—whimpers, moans, and gasps leave her lips as Sakura thrusts her fingers into her hole. The Japanese girl makes sure to rub against her groupmate’s G-spot every time she hilts, the heel of her palm rubbing over Chaewon’s clit as well. The younger girl can’t keep herself still anymore—her hips grinding against Sakura’s palm, fingers going white with how hard she grips the older girl’s shoulders. Sakura knows her girl’s really close now—she’s getting tighter and wetter, her breaths becoming shorter. Immediately, she latches her lips back on Chaewon’s nipple, softly sucking on it for that extra bit of pleasure to push her over the edge. 

“Unnie, I… I’m cumming!”

With a shudder, Chaewon’s comes undone under Sakura’s touch. Rushes of slick flow from deep within her all over Sakura’s fingers, staining the older girl’s thighs below her as it drips. She convulses in pleasure as Sakura continues her thrusts, intent on stimulating Chaewon as much as she could take. The older girl grins as she watches, and she offers soft encouragement throughout Chaewon’s high. 

“Mhm, that’s right, keep cumming over unnie’s fingers like that, good girl. Drench unnie’s fingers in cum just like that…”

Eventually, Chaewon comes down from her high, and she collapses right on Sakura’s lap, exhausted. The older Japanese girl only grins lustfully when she lifts her cum-drenched hand to Chaewon’s lips with one instruction: “Suck.” 

And suck she does—Chaewon cleans her unnie’s hand free of her own cum with her mouth, sucking and licking her juices off thoroughly. Sakura’s praises of “Good girl” keep her going, and when she withdraws her fingers, she guides Chaewon to lie on a dry spot on the bed. Immediately, Sakura’s hands are on her panties, and she draws them off her hips, slowly pulling them off and flinging them aside as she stares at Chaewon’s pretty face. 

“You’ve had your fun, Chaewonnie.” 

Sakura straddles her younger groupmate’s face, her glistening slit just inches away from Chaewon’s lips. She grins at the breaths of anticipation brushing right against her core as she lowers herself down.

“Now, it’s unnie’s turn.”

[authorred]

Power Struggle | Sylus x gn!reader | Love and Deepspace | Part 1

➺ Preface: Having fallen into the hands of the leader of Onychinus himself, it's obvious he enjoys watching you squirm and try to run from him. He has the power to make you yield, to make you stay. But little does he know; you have the same power; you just don't use it nearly as often. How will he react when you grow tired of being his plaything?

➺ PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE I NEED THIS MAN CARNALLY, RELIGIOUSLY, BIOLOGICALLY, INNATELY, INHERENTLY, GENEOLOGICALLY, MENTALLY, PHYSICALLY, EMOTIONALLY, I NEED HIM TO DESTROY ME I NEED HIM TO RUIN MY LIFE, MY HOUSE, MY JOB, MY POSSESSIONS, MY PUS--

I'm so sorry Zayne I love you pookie pls forgive me but FUCK!

➺ Part 2 (coming soon)

Warning(s): None

Your eye twitches when you see the familiar red gleam of Mephisto’s eyes. No matter where you go in the N109 Zone, that crow is always following you. Why Sylus feels the need to keep an eye on you 24/7, you have no idea. It’s not like you’re doing anything. Perhaps it’s a security thing. To make him feel better. Either way, you’re hyperaware of the influence he has on the entire zone. Just his name alone is enough to spark conversations—good or bad.

You walk up to Mephisto and stare at him. “Are you going to follow me everywhere I go as long as it’s in the N109 Zone?” You ask.

Mephisto caws and tilts his head, his beak clacking together. Almost as if he’s saying ‘yes’. You give him a flat look before sighing. “Guess you can’t help it. You’re stuck with Sylus too, huh?”

~ When you enter Sylus’s base (or whatever it is, you never bothered to ask) Mephisto flies through the open door and past you. You assume he’s going to find his owner. You sigh and shut the door behind you, walking deeper into the foyer. It was typical of Sylus to be rather secluded—you don’t ever recall a time where he greeted you. Not that you expect it, per se.

With Sylus doing God knows what, and you not having to do anything, you decide to entertain yourself. Trotting off, you head to Sylus’ boxing ring. The last time you went there, your ‘lesson’ with Sylus happened, and though informative (you supposed) it wasn’t anything you didn’t know. Sometimes you graced him with the ability to feed his superiority complex. You walk over to a locker and open it, grabbing some red hand wraps. Having done this so many times before, you quickly wrap the cloth around and between your knuckles and fingers. When they're secure and you get everything else ready, you step into the ring and start lightly jogging in place to get your blood up. You hop over to the punching bag and wait a moment before beginning to lay out into it.

Your punches connect cleanly, the impacts crisp and strong. The punching bag swings from where it's hung from the ceiling via chain. You can feel the burn in your muscles begin to grow after several minutes of punching, and you take intermittent breaks to work out until failure. About twenty minutes into your workout, you pause your actions when you sense an intense, heavy gaze on you.

"Well?" You call out, sliding your gaze to him. "Are you impressed?" Your tone is slightly sardonic. It's not like Sylus to just give compliments with no backhanded comment to boot.

"You applied what I taught you," he replies in his usual baritone, melodious voice. "It seems you're not the little kitty I think of you as."

You roll your eyes and take a few steps away from the punching back, turning your body to face him. Sylus is leaning on the doorway of the gym, his arms crossed. He's wearing his usual black and red shirt with black pants, and his red-tipped dress shoes. As per, he looks like a posh asshole. "Are you interested in sparring this 'little kitty', or are you busy committing crimes?"

You can see something close to amusement flash across his face at the comment. "You're worn out," he replies. "You're soaked in sweat, and your breathing is heavy. It would be unfair to spar you in this condition."

"You scared?"

A beat of silence passes.

And then, Sylus lets out a sigh--and if you listen closely, it almost sounds amused. "It seems the more you're worn out, the cockier you become." He steps closer to the ring, hands reaching for some wraps. "Very well."

You watch as he wraps his hands and steps into the ring with you. "Try to go easy on me, sweetie," he says, gazing at you.

"Yeah, 'cause you'd definitely return the favor," you mutter to yourself, getting in a relaxed stance, shifting your weight back and forth between your feet. Sylus remains in a steady stand, weight distributed evenly between his feet.

Sylus' jab is quick, and you barely manage to dodge it. Ah, shit, I forgot how good at boxing he was. Goddammit. For the first several seconds, you remain on the defense to his swift and agile hooks and jabs.

"You will never win on the defense alone," his rough, baritone voice rings out. "I thought I taught you this. Seize your opportunities!"

He sends a nasty left hook, clipping your jaw a little. If you didn't snake out of the way, that would've surely sent you to the floor. "It seems you've gotten tired, Kitten," he says, and you're not sure if he says that as a consolation or a way of mocking you.

You let out a small huff. "Just shut up and keep going."

A soft scoff leaves his lips, "As you wish, Sweetie."

You two continue to box for a few minutes, with you on the defense and him on the offense most of the time. In between each jab and hook, he makes side comments--and you're still not sure if he's mocking you, or if he's attempting to spite you into completely dominating him. Either way, he's irking you.

After a particularly hard hook to your jaw, you stumble back onto your knees, holding yourself up with your hands. You let out a soft grunt and shake your head, attempting to pull yourself together from the small impact your brain just suffered from.

"I think you've had enough," Sylus says, relaxing from his stance. "It's clear your stamina is at its limit. I would rather you not suffer lasting effects due to your stubbornness." He walks up to you and offers a hand.

Seize your opportunities. With a low grunt, you take his hand and pull yourself up a smidge before quickly pulling his unassuming form forward. With deft movements and lower-body strength you have no right of possessing, you roll onto your back and pull him with you. You raise your legs, wrapping them around his neck in a triangle choke.

Sylus grunts and grips your thigh in an attempt to pry your legs from around him, but you squeeze tightly, keeping his arm hugged against your torso. It doesn't take long for his face to turn a concerning red, and he struggles to get onto his feet for a hint of respite. His body weight presses into you the longer you hold him there, his eyes growing distant and hazy. You don't wait out the time it would take for him to pass out. You quickly release him from your legs and push him back before hopping back up to your feet.

He stays on the ground for a few seconds, taking in the needed oxygen. His complexion slowly goes back to normal as his blood flow is restored. He's silent, and for a moment you believe he's going to retaliate, but instead, a low chuckle leaves his lips. "A submission hold," he says, more to himself than anything. "It seems this kitten has sharper claws than I thought."

You squint at him. No way he was just going to take it and let it slide without retaliation. Nah, this was Sylus. He'll get his get back. You slowly stand and back up, knowing his reach was longer than yours, and his legs are even longer. If he wanted to, he could easily sweep you off your feet with a single flurry of his leg.

Slowly, Sylus stands up, brushing dust off of his shoulders and arms. "Impressive. It seems your knowledge of combat extends further than I originally thought," he praises. For some reason, you feel wary whenever he compliments you--like he's planning something.

"Yeah," you reply slowly, "I'm a 'kitten' around you because I choose to be." You watch as he turns to look at you, his ruby red eyes set ablaze with. . . arousal?

"So, it seems," he replies lowly. "Things will be getting much more interesting, Sweetie."

[kiwi-on-ice]

we need ashe smut w fem reader if u can🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

Ashe x fem!reader

Summary: As the new waitress at Panorama Diner, you quickly meet the infamous Deadlock Gang, while also gaining the interest of their ruthless leader.

Word count: 6.2k

Warnings: 18+ smut, dom!ashe, no use of y/n, lots of flirting, fingering, strap ons, spanking, slight overstim

Notes: Thank you for requesting my fav fav fav character anon! God i love Ashe and I love writing her. Also phew this is the longest fanfic i've wrote so far, hope it was worth the wait!

Having recently moved, there was one resounding fact you’ve learnt from practically everyone you’ve met so far; don’t mess with the deadlock gang.

Getting a job as a waitress along route 66, you’d been told by neighbors, new friends, even fellow colleagues to watch your back. That the deadlock gang were dangerous, unpredictable, undefeatable. And as you glance at the wanted posters that adorn the diner wall, your eyes are drawn to the leader, her mascara running down her cheeks. But its her expression that really strikes you, how severe and intense her gaze is. Reading the warning ‘Dead or Alive, Elizabeth Caledonia Ashe, $65,000,000 reward’, it really dawns on you how threatening she seems. Your finger traces the edge of the slightly ripped material, not being able to identify why exactly you can’t rip your gaze away.

Not being able to idle for long, you tear yourself away and get back to serving food and drinks, getting used to the flow of the diner and its patrons. It’s almost relaxing, most customers being pretty polite and calm as you work. You fall into a routine, especially since you have a specific uniform to wear. The diner’s management thought it would be good to have almost a 1950s theme, meaning you and the other waitresses were given blue stereotypical dresses to wear, complete with a small white apron to go around the waist. Yours was a little too tight, not that you minded. It flattered your figure quite nicely, even gaining you a few compliments.

It was quite a slow day as you stood behind the counter, in your own world as your fingers tap rhythmically on the marble. Light streamed through the glass windows, brightening the fairly empty diner as you daydream passively. Although the other waitress on staff seemingly drops a cup on the counter, causing you to turn at the noise. She seems...flustered, just as the bell rings to signal the door has opened. Following her nervous gaze, your breath catches. The deadlock gang, well only three of them, but the leader you’d recognise anywhere from how often you find yourself gazing at her wanted poster. Your colleague quickly busies herself with some coffee that you’re sure hasn’t been ordered, leaving you to seat them. You breathe slowly as you walk towards the new patrons.

Ashe seems a little frustrated, snapping at who you assume is her lieutenant as they wait to be seated, her rifle idly resting over her shoulder. She turns to look at whichever waitress will probably annoy her today, and then she sees you. Immediately her demeanour changes, looking you up and down as the furrow of her brow dissipates.

“Welcome to Panorama Diner, table for three?” you say softly, a polite smile etched on your features.

“Yeah, thanks. Preferably by one of those windows.” The leader replies, her red eyes not moving from you as you lead them to their table. Placing their menus down, you smile and leave them to decide. Releasing a breath you didn’t know you were holding, you catch the other waitress glancing at you slightly apologetically. But you don’t particularly feel that threatened or scared…but you’ve been wrong before.

“Ready to order?” you ask with your notebook out, once again putting on the customer service smile.

“Three coffees, black.” Ashe says, before looking you up and down again. “That a uniform? Or d’you just like to dress like that?”

“It’s a uniform, management are going for a 1950s theme.” You reply with a soft laugh, which Ashe seems to delight in.

“Suits ya dollface, can see why they suggested it.” She says smoothly, causing heat to unexpectedly rise to your cheeks.

“I’ll grab your drinks.” You say quickly, turning and hoping she didn’t catch how flustered you looked. You reprimand yourself as you put the coffee on, why on earth were you affected by a simple compliment? You get compliments all the time…and especially why were you affected by the compliment of a criminal gang leader? You try and shake those thoughts from your mind as you pour their drinks, placing them on the tray and carrying them.

“Here you are, can I get you guys anything else?” you ask as you place their mugs in front of them. The two men shake their head dismissively, but Ashe hums softly.

“Hm…any recommendations?”

You hesitate for a moment. “Well a lot of the waitresses here recommend the apple pie.”

“But not you?” she asks, her eyebrow quirked.

“To be honest I hate apple pie.”

This dry response cause the gang leader to laugh, actually laugh, causing the two men to stare for a moment, bewildered. “That right? Appreciate the honesty there sweetcheeks, what would you recommend?”

You take a moment to think. “The French toast is lovely, and we also have a few cakes on stand that the staff made. Chocolate and red velvet.”

“Well I think red velvet would be just sweet enough, thanks doll.” Ashe replies with a small smirk, her red lipstick illuminating as the suns rays pierce through the glass panes. You nod and quickly go to get her a slice, a little short of breath from her intense gaze. You really need to stop acting like a blushing schoolgirl, you reprimand yourself. Coming back and serving her the cake slice, she thanks you, and that delicious accent of hers has you fidgeting as you turn and serve another table.

You try and continue your shift as normal, although her occasional glances at you prove difficult to ignore. Still you manage to keep your composure until one of her lieutenants pipes up.

“Hey lady, can we get the check?” he says loudly, snapping his fingers a little condesendingly, and as you hurry to the table, you see Ashe glare daggers at him.

“Don’t snap your damn fingers at her, she ain’t a fuckin’ dog.” Ashe seethes at him, which causes him to shrink a little and nod.

“Cash or card?” you ask, before Ashe pulls out a wad of cash from her pocket. Counting how much they owe, she places it on the table. You collect it as they stand to leave, but before they do Ashe stands to her full height and steps in front of you.

“Your tip, and an apology for my lackey’s rudeness.” She says, handing you a wad of cash. Your eyes must betray your shock at how much she’s giving you, as you shakily take it and start thanking her profusely.

“Don’t mention it dollface, didn’t catch your name.” You tell her, and she hums and smirks at you. “Pretty name for a pretty girl, guess I’ll be comin’ in here more often.”

With that, she tips her cowboy hat which makes you giggle softly before leaving. You watch as they step outside, mounting their motorbikes. You glance down to check your tip, counting the money in amazement. She’d tipped you 200 dollars, at least that’ll go a long way to paying this weeks rent.

Making good on her statement, two days later the gang are back. This time it’s Ashe and three members of her gang, alongside two omincs. One looked smaller, with a hood and a sniper rifle, but the other was huge, his hulking frame contrasting the cute little bowler hat that lay askew on his head. Even though a waiter was on hand, you almost sprinted to be the one who served them.

“Welcome back to Panorama Diner, table for…five?” you ask as you count them, and Ashe nods. They all seem a little dishelved, a few cuts and scrapes present on the human members which causes you to wonder where they’d been or what trouble they’d caused. You lead them to a table, connecting two so the bigger omnic could fit more comfortably, which seems to please Ashe greatly.

“Wasn’t sure ya’ll accepted omnics, there are a lot of establishments who sure as hell don’t.” Ashe remarks, causing you to shake your head.

“Of course we do, we don’t discriminate.” You say with a smile, before glancing at the bigger omnic. “Love the hat.”

He gives a nod and a little thumbs up, as Ashe continues. “His name’s B.O.B, he ain’t a talker.”

You nod, flipping your notebook out. Two coffees and a milkshake, to which Ashe raises her eyebrow at the dark-skinned woman clutching a laptop to her chest.

“Seriously Frankie?”

“What? You said it was a celebration.”

You smile a little. “So two coffees and a milkshake, got it.”

Leaving them to it, you go to prepare their orders. You can’t deny that you’ve been secretly picturing Ashe coming in again, giving you a small rush now that it’s actually come true. You try and convince yourself it’s just for the possibility of another tip, and not for the way her voice makes you weak at the knees, and her eyes are the most gorgeous you’ve ever seen.

“Here you guys are, anything else just let me know.” You say brightly.

“Thanks doll.”

God you can’t deny how much that nickname is affecting you when it slips from her red lips, as you turn and serve some other tables. You notice a few patrons glancing at the gang as they eat, but you aren’t afraid anymore, and you sure as hell aren’t gonna turn them in, however you try and push away the feeling of guilt at how flippant you’re being regarding a wanted gang of criminals. All because the leader was hot.

Still, you go about your shift easily, growing to like whenever Ashe would unashamedly look at your ass whenever you bent over to pick something up from a table; in fact, a few times you did it on purpose in the hopes the older woman was looking at you. After a while, it was near closing time so you check on them to get any final orders. Upon asking for the check, you hand it to them.

“Cash or card?” you ask.

“Cash” the leader replies, this time opening a bag that was sat beside her. You can’t help but glance inside, and the sheer volume of dollar bills nearly has your eyes watering. That explains why they look so bruised and scraped, you think to yourself, as she counts out the amount and places it on the table. As they get up to leave, Ashe is again the last one as she hands you another wad of cash.

“Your tip.” She says in a matter-of-fact tone.

“Oh…miss I really cant accept that much again- “

“You can, and you will.” She replies, her tone leaving no room for argument as you shyly take the money, electricity spiking up your back as your skin brushes against hers.

“Thank you so so much, I really can’t thank you enough.”

“No need sugar.” She waves her hand dismissively as she grabs her rifle. “Stay safe, these parts ain’t gonna be quiet for too long.”

You nod a little at her warning as she leaves, your heart beating rapidly. She gives you a final look up and down as she leaves, and you release a shaky breath, god you really have to stop getting so worked up about her. Although it’s hard when you glance at the 300 dollar bill tip she just gave you.

However a few days later, things really take a turn for you. Two of your fellow waitresses invite you out to a bar, and you’d been polite enough to say yes despite your reluctance. Once you arrive, they’re both taken with a few men who buy them drinks, leaving you alone at the bar, tapping your finger anxiously on the table. You get a few offers from guys trying to buy you drinks, but you blow them off, your dress suddenly feeling too tight in the warm lights. Thinking about leaving, you move a bit through the bar before you hear raucous laughter from a nearby cards table.

The deadlock gang…they were here. Clearly nobody was brave enough to ask them to leave, or hell they might even own the place…it strikes you just how little you know about them; dangerous considering the leader now knows your name. The same leader who you’ve just locked eyes with, the red hue causing your breath to catch. Hesitating, you turn to leave. Maybe she didn’t recognise you outside of your waitress uniform, as you attempt to walk casually towards the exit.

“You better not be leaving doll, not when I’ve just saw ya.” You hear a smooth southern voice say, and god it’s like the blood rushes to your face immediately. Turning, you see Ashe coming up to you, her lips, tie and eyes all the same colour. Danger.

“Seems my friends have left me, I was just heading out-“

“Awe don’t worry, how about I be your friend, hm?”

It feels like the devil tempting you as you hesitate for a moment, but ultimately you find yourself nodding before you even realise. The smirk on her face makes her look like the wolf whose seduced the lamb into her den, as she leads you into the bar with a hand on the small of your back. Taking you to a smaller table away from the rest of her gang, she looks at you.

“Let me at least buy ya a drink.” She offers, and goes to order what you asked for. Tapping your fingers nervously against your thigh, you glance around as you wait. Her gang are still sat where you’d seen them, laughing and playing cards. You recognise a few of them who’d came into the diner, but quickly look away before they catch you staring.

“There ya go sugar.” Ashe says as she gets back, two glasses in hand. You quickly thank her as she slides into the booth with you, her thigh slightly touching your own. “So y’friends abandoned you?”

Laughing a little, you nod and explain that they’d been whisked away with some patrons who’d caught their eye. The smirk on Ashe’s face gives away her train of thought.

“But not you?” She inquires, eyes glancing around your face as if mapping out every detail.

“I prefer girls.” You say before even thinking about your words, but the older woman smiles all the same.

“Perfect.”

Forcing yourself to not show how flustered you are, she starts to ask questions about your life, your job, your family. As you speak, she seems genuinely interested in what you have to say, something you can’t say you’ve ever had with the dates you’ve been on in the past. Not that this is a date…

“What about you?” You ask softly.

“Me? All ya need to know is that deadlock is my family now.” She says, before grinning. “Well, B.O.B is extra special family.”

“The one with the little hat, right?” You reply, peering over her shoulder to her gang, where the hulking omnic sat with his eyes firmly on the two of you.

“Yeah that’s it, my bodyguard. Not that I need him all the time. Best believe I can handle myself.” She smirks, leaning in to murmur the last bit close to your ear, causing you to giggle a little.

“You’re known for being quite dangerous around these parts, right?”

“Oh you could say that doll. What, you scared?” She teases, before you quickly shake your head. “Good, I like a brave girl.”

Smiling a little at her praise, you aren’t even focused on the fact she’s a gang leader anymore. Like Eve biting the forbidden fruit, you let Ashe place her hand on your knee as you speak, the sinful spark of electricity seemingly travelling from her manicured fingertips all the way up your spine. As you both talk, her fingers tracing small circles on your knee, before slightly rising higher.

After an hour or so, her gang approach, rowdy and clearly intoxicated as they giggle.

“C’mon Ashe, let’s hit up some other places.”

You smile at the cowgirl, thinking it’s the end of the night for you. But she hums, glancing at you for a moment before replying.

“Ya’ll go and have fun, but not too much.”

One of her lieutenants tilts his head, “huh? You ain’t comin’?”

Ashe cuts him a glare that tells him to shut his mouth, before readjusting herself so her arm is around your shoulder. “I’m doin’ just fine here.”

With no room for argument, her gang takes off after Ashe gives a nod to her omnic bodyguard. You on the other hand feel your breathing quicken at the feel of her arm around you, subtly leaning closer to her as you giggle.

“You’re doing just fine here?” You ask, to which she smirks.

“Damn right I am, got a pretty girl hangin’ off my every word. What’s not to like?”

At the reassurance that she does in fact find you pretty, the heat rises within you. Not being able to help glancing at her lips for a moment, the ever perceptive criminal obviously noticing, her breath tickling your cheek as she speaks.

“But just cause I’m doin’ fine here, don’t mean we can’t go somewhere else…maybe away from pryin’ eyes.”

At her announcement, you glance around to notice the other patrons sneaking glances as you. But another thought comes creeping through your mind, the thought of going home with her. Of letting her touch you in the way you’ve been fantasising about ever since she came into the diner. You wouldn’t dream of admitting the nights you spent playing with your clit, imagining the infamous gang leader’s fingers instead. So you nod, knowing you’d give in, and the self-satisfied smile on her face tells you that she knew you’d say yes.

She leads you with by the hand, warm and slightly callous in your own, before coming upon her motorcycle parked outside the bar. Seeing your expression, she giggles softly.

“First time on one of these?” she asks, to which you nod, “Don’t worry sugar, just hold on good and tight f’me, alright?”

And you really do, clinging on to her waist as she speeds down dirt roads, hair wispy in the wind. Try as you might to relax and take in the scenery, you can’t deny the relief you feel when she finally brings the bike to a stop. She takes you once again by the hand and leads you inside, shutting and bolting the door behind you both. Now should be the time to feel at least a little intimidated, but butterflies of excitement uncurl in your stomach as she glances at you.

“Want another drink?” she asks smoothly, to which you shake your head. Drinking really is the last thing on your mind, especially as she stalks closer to you. “Maybe you want somethin’ else…”

Feeling your back against the wall, you nod slightly as she brings her hand up to slowly trace your cheekbone. Her thumb rubs smoothing lines, and at this proximity you can see every line and pore on her beautiful face, every eyelash, how her tongue darts out a little to lick at her lip.

“D’you want me doll? Gotta tell me now or I ain’t touchin’ ya.”

“I want you.” You say, trying to sound confident but melting at her grin.

“Alright, you gotta know though…I’m a woman who likes control, likes to be in charge. You sure you can handle that?”

You’re sure that your cheeks are burning as she says that, nodding quickly again. At your consent, she leans in and kisses you, the tension between you both finally exploding. She presses you further up against the wall, tongue running along your bottom lip before exploring your mouth. Eagerly swallowing your slight whimpers, she uses her free hand to wrap around your hip, keeping you where she wants you. Pulling away, she observes the slight red stain her lipstick as left on your mouth, before kissing along your jaw.

“So sweet sugar, like candy.” She mumbles against your skin, kissing down to your neck and licking. “Gonna let me leave a mark?”

You stutter out a yes, before she sucks a dark hickey into your neck. There really isn’t any going back now, she’s marked you. The leader of the deadlock gang has truly staked her claim on you, and you couldn’t be happier.

Feeling the material of your dress, she slowly inches the fabric up, exposing more and more of your thighs as she kisses to the junction between your neck and shoulder. She lets out a soft moan as she grips your upper thigh, feeling the soft skin under her touch and squeezing. Although she quickly grows tired of waiting, instead slipping between your thighs to grope your clothed pussy instead. At the action, you can’t help but buck forward into her touch, feeling her smile against your skin.

“So wet already, bet you were drippin’ in the bar huh?” she accuses you, knowing she was right. Her fingers cup your panties, feeling the wet material beneath her skin, exploring. With a soft whimper, you let her touch you how she wants, eyelids fluttering closed before she slaps your pussy lightly.

“Nuh uh doll, eyes open.”

When you do as she instructs, she rewards you by slipping into your panties and rubbing your clit in slow rhythmic circles. The result is instantaneous, a quiet needy moan escaping you as you feel her touch. Her eyes never leave your face, head tilted as she watches your reactions.

“Look so pretty, y’know that? Know how pretty you are?” she praises you teasingly, meaning every word but mostly saying them because of how flustered you act when you hear them. Her praise goes straight to your cunt, clit throbbing under her touch as she speeds up her movements.

“Here’s what’s gonna happen sugar. You’re gonna cum on my hand, and all I’m gonna do is play with your clit. If you’re a good girl and do what I say, imma take you into the bedroom and fuck the brains outta ya.”

 Her tone doesn’t leave any room for argument, and you voice your confirmation. She grips your waist, encouraging you to rock into her hand as she keeps up the movement of her fingers, strumming your core expertly. It’s clear to you she’s experienced, and you wonder if this is a normal occurrence for her; to seduce and play with pretty girls who happen to cross her path when she isn’t out being a criminal.

Shakily, you grip on to her waistcoat for stability, feeling yourself get closer and closer the more she touches you. When she releases your waist to grope your tits, that’s when your thighs really start to shake, grip harder on her outfit.

“Yeah baby, that’s right. Cum on my hand, make a mess.” She encourages, her voice igniting that fire inside of you as you finish on her hand with a soft cry. Not slowing down, she gets every last bit of your pleasure before she finally removes her hand, bringing it up to the light to observe your fluids sticking to her digits. “Awe, ya really did make a mess.”

Catching your breath, you blink for a moment as she uses those same fingers to tap at your lower lip, before parting them to clean her fingers for her. Tasting yourself was a little strange, but it was worth it for the way her pupils dilated and her breath caught in her throat at your performance. Without another word, she grabs your upper arm and hauls you into the bedroom.

Getting you on your back, she grabs the zipper of your dress and yanks it down, removing it quickly as she leans to give you another kiss. Moaning softly, you reach to unzip her waist coat, pushing it off her before your hands go to her tie. She grins against your lips and helps you undo it, before he grips your wrists and pins them above your head, mattress squeaking slightly.

“Can you guess what I’m about to do?” she purrs, before wrapping the red tie around your wrists, not tight enough to hurt but just enough to give the illusion of incapacitation. Bound like a present for her, she straddles your waist and looks at her handiwork, before slowly unbuttoning her dress shirt. You buck up a little in excitement, as she reveals her white bra. Removing her fingerless gloves, she tugs your ruined underwear down roughly, exposing your dripping cunt to the dim light of the bedroom.

“So many things I wanna do to you baby, so many things.” She says as she runs her finger along your pussy lips, smirking as you twitch. “Anythin’ completely off limits?”

You tell her and she hums in acknowledgement, before glancing at the wardrobe. She lifts herself off you, hissing at you to stay still as she grabs a box from beneath a few clothes and bullet shell casings. Bringing it over, she smirks as your eyes widen at the sheer number of toys in the box.

“I’m a wealthy woman doll, and I’m a wealthy woman with…needs.” She answers your silent judgement, before leaving the box on the floor next to the bed. “Now if you do well, I promise I’ll fuck ya, how does that sound?”

Before being able to ask what you need to do well at, she unbuttons her trousers and slides them down her legs, removing all of her harnesses and belts with precision. Just in her bra and underwear now, she winks at you before ridding herself of her panties before climbing up your body. Oh. You know what she wants, and you whimper desperately in anticipation.

Grabbing the headboard, she positions herself over your face, thighs on either side. You’re practically salivating, as she moves your bound hands to be resting on your stomach. Without warning, she finally sits on your face, and you get to work immediately. You lap at her pussy, wanting to taste her all night and finally being given the opportunity. She groans softly, the feeling of your warm tongue between her thighs was heavenly. She wanted you like this since she saw you, in that silly waitress dress that was too small for your curves.

Rocking into your tongue, she watches you squirm with glee, moving one hand to hold your hair; keeping you in place as she uses you. Uses your mouth, all for herself. Whimpering, you lick up to her clit before sucking gently, delighting in how a soft moan escapes her throat. She tightens her grip on your hair, pulling to angle you to where exactly she wants. Her pussy was dripping, mixing with your saliva as she makes a mess of your face. Not that you mind, excitedly pleasuring her as best you can.

“Fuck sugar, ain’t you a good girl.” She slurs out, as you move your tongue over her cunt. “Keep it up and I’m, shit, I’m definitely fuckin’ ya.”

You whine in excitement, doubling down on your effort, jaw slightly aching as you please the criminal above you. Feeling herself get close, she grinds faster into your tongue, taking the sensations you’re willingly providing her. She finally cums in your mouth with an uncharacteristically higher pitched moan, her hips slowing until she stills.

You catch your breath rapidly as she climbs off you, leaning into her hand as she wipes your mouth of her wetness. The action causes your chest to feel tight with happiness, before she taps your cheek in a slightly condescending manner.

“Alright then doll, I’m a woman of my word.”

With that, she leans off the bed to rifle through the box, before bringing up a bottle of lube and squeezing a glob onto her fingers. With a nod of confirmation from you, she pushes two fingers slowly inside, feeling how your practically suck her in. She groans quietly, as you make a stranged gasp at the sensation. Removing them, she sinks them inside again before repeating, the wet noises from your cunt echoing off the walls.

“Hear that? Hear how much this pussy wants me?” she taunts, curling them to prod at that spot inside that makes your toes curl.

She sets a slow but firm rhythm, focusing on stretching you out for whats to come as her other hand gentle strokes circles on your thigh. You’re having the time of your life, hands still bound helplessly infront of you as your digits flex. This is exactly what you wanted from her, what you needed from her, and she hadn’t even got to the main event yet.

After a while though, and a third finger being slipped inside, you grow impatient with the growing desire for her to fuck you. So you do your best to voice that desperation, hips twitching and voice pathetically higher pitched than normal.

“You want it baby?” she says, slowing her fingers to a halt before grinning at you. “Say it nicely.”

“Can you please fuck me Ashe?” you ask.

With a nod and a quick spank to your oversensitive pussy, she leans down and grabs the strap on she was keeping which causes your eyes to widen. It’s a black harness, with a purple dildo attached. It wasn’t overly big at around 6 inches, but it certainly seemed thicker than anything you’d taken before. Suddenly glad of her prep, you watch as she moves a pillow beneath your hips, before lubing up the fake cock.

She pushes in slowly, and you both moan at the sight and sensation. God you look gorgeous, she thinks, as her red eyes watch your face contort in pleasure and the slight pain that comes with the stretch. You whimper her name softly, cunt tightening around the dildo as Ashe strokes at your hips soothingly.

“I know, I know sugar. But you can take it, I know you can take it.” She praises, bottoming out inside you. Thighs shaking, you’re grateful for the way she lets you adjust to the size, and after a few moments you offer her a shaky nod.

Smiling, she pulls out slowly and pushes you back in, getting you used to the rhythm of being fucked as the grip on your thighs tightens a little. She clearly has a lot of core strength, able to keep the pace effectively and slightly speed up when she senses you get more comfortable. The slick sounds of your pussy getting fucked by her should make you embarrassed, but the shameless noise only serves to turn you on further.

“That’s it, look at ya. Takin’ my cock so well, such a good little girl.” She grunts out, cowboy hat laying askew on her head as she keeps fucking you. You lift your bound hands to paw at her bra, before she clearly gets the hint and chuckles. Not slowing down at all, she reaches behind herself and practically rips the garment off, exposing her breasts to your gaze. You go to touch them before she grabs your wrists easily, moving them above your head as she moves your thighs up.

This new angle means she can drive the toy impossibly deep inside you, pinning your hands down and making sure you have nowhere to go, nothing to do but take. You moan louder at this, eyes nearly rolling back as you’re sure she’s fucking your brains out. The mating press makes her feel good too, the harness bumping her clit with every thrust, serving the mental image of her fucking you with physical sensation.

“So cute, like my own little doll. Maybe I should keep ya.” She drawls, causing you to whimper more at the insinuation. Hell, in this moment she could threaten to lock you up in her basement and you’d probably blindly agree, needing to feel more of the delicious friction she was providing you. Moving her one hand down, she rubs a little clumsily at your clit, causing your cunt to tighten around the dildo.

You aren’t sure how long she fucks you like that, time an illusion that pales in comparison to the pleasure of being fucked by the gang leader, but eventually you need to cum. So you tell her, beg her, which only fuels her dominate headspace further.

“Yeah keep beggin’ me, that’s right. You know who’s in control right now.” She groans out, slamming her hips against yours. Every muscle in your body tightening, you barely have time to tell her you’re gonna cum until you’re gushing around her fake cock with a drawn out moan. Grinning, she slows down, stroking at your arms.

“Good job, you looked so pretty baby.” She whispers, red nails gently dragging on your skin soothingly. Just when you’re about to thank her though when she pulls out, she grabs under your hips and flips you, landing face first into the mattress with a grunt.

“Ashe-“

“Oh come on darlin’, you didn’t think we’d just stop at one, did you?”

With that, she pushes into you for a second time from behind, your back arching. This time she doesn’t wait for you to adjust before pulling back and thrusting inside. With your loud, overstimulated moans, she grins sadistically and starts to fuck you again, your hands limply in front of your face.

“Oh fuck doll, ain’t you just the prettiest thing.” She gets out through her shaky drawn out breaths, focusing on railing you firmly into next week. Your thighs tremble with every thrust, feeling your g spot get battered by her dildo. You feel a sharp smack as she spanks your ass, and at your reaction she repeats the motion.

Eyes rolling back, your front falls into the sheets as you lose the strength to hold yourself up, moaning incessantly at her rough treatment. She fucks you like she already owns you, like you’re her property, and you love it. The sensations are so much, you find yourself whimpering her name over and over.

But a part of Ashe wants you to call her by her first name, a name she hardly lets anyone call her. But ultimately decides against it, it feels too real, somehow too intimate. Reluctant to break down her walls, she instead channels her mental doubts into fucking you better, harder, with more passion. She holds your hips for stability, pushing your hands down so you can crudely rub yourself while she fucks you.

Soon it all becomes too much, and you feel yourself barrelling towards your next orgasm quickly. Your breathy whines and whimpers let her know, as she moves her hand up your spine before nestling her fingers in your hair. She gives a sharp pull, forcing you into an arch as she coos in your ear.

“Awe baby, you gonna cum again? Gonna let me fuck another one outta ya?”

You nod dumbly, almost drooling as your pussy tightens yet again.

“Good, make some noise for me m’kay?”

Making good on her word, she thrusts into your g spot with conviction, forcing noises to come tumbling out of your throat as you cum for a third time that night, twitching and almost convulsing. This time when she slows, she pulls out for good, unclasping the harness and letting the strap fall to her side as she takes you in her arms. She tosses the cowgirl hat and nestles herself into the pillows, pulling you with her so you’re laying on her chest.

“That okay for you?” she asks, like she hasn’t just given you the railing of a lifetime, but you giggle softly anyway and nod. “Alright good, just checkin’. I’ll run ya a bath in a minute, how does that sound?”

You relax into her embrace, content to let her take care of you as you hum softly in appreciation. Her nails gently drag along your scalp, the soothing gesture threatening to send you to sleep before she can clean you up. You can’t deny how safe you feel, in the arms of someone so dangerous. But she’s showing you such affection, such softness which contradicts the rumours that swirl around her.

“Are you gonna come to the diner more?”

That innocent little question you ask, so full of hope and contentment causes an unfamiliar sensation to rise up in the cowgirl, as she glances down at you.

“You want that? You wanna see me some more?”

At your nod, she swallows thickly. You actually want to see her more, maybe as more than someone to fuck. Someone to…she doesn’t let herself finish that thought, instead smirks teasingly.

“Sure doll, gotta come back to the diner. Gotta make sure nobody else is tippin’ my favourite waitress as much as I am.”

You giggle at that, teasing her back. “Oh? So if someone tipped me higher then you’d match it?”

“I’d go beyond matchin’ it darlin’, might have to start paying your bills as my tip.”

You really laugh at her dramatics, cuddling up to her more and making her cheeks involuntarily flush. With a soft sigh, she allows herself to bask in the moment before slapping your ass gently.

“Come on then dollface, let’s get ya in the bath.”

[fairy-writes]

Uuuu i just saw the new event, im soo excited for it!!! Can i ask for “Can you please come and get me?” with Narumi Gen please?

COME AND GET ME

Reblogs and Comments are greatly appreciated!!

__________________________________________________________________________

Prompt: “Can you please come and get me?”

Fandom(s): Kaiju No. 8

Pairing(s): Narumi Gen x Reader

Word Count: 0.9k

Genre(s)/Tag(s): Gender Neutral!Reader, Angst, Non-Consensual Drug Use, Drugs, Hospitals

Notes: I love writing Narumi's serious side, so that’s my excuse if this is OOC.

*TRIGGER WARNING FOR NON-CONSENSUAL DRUG USE* (the reader gets roofied)

*TRIGGER WARNING FOR MENTIONS OF RAPE AS WELL*

__________________________________________________________________________

Narumi Gen got the call somewhere around midnight. 

He had been gaming (because, of course, he was), waiting for you to return home from a night out with your division. You had just been promoted to platoon leader in your division, so a celebratory night out with your teammates and comrades was in order. 

At least, that was the plan. 

Gen’s phone ringing caught him off guard. With a frown, he scooped up the device and cradled it between his shoulder and his ear as he continued to play. He didn’t even look at who was calling. 

“Hello?” He grumbled into the receiver and heard a sniffle. 

That gets him to sit up straight. He knew this sound. Because while it hurt him deeply, he had made you cry before. It wasn’t a sound that he’d forget easily. 

He says your name once, twice, and is halfway through your name a third time when you speak.

“Can you please come and get me?” You all but whimper, and he drops his controller onto the coffee table, slipping his shoes on at the front door before you speak again. He ignores the “GAME OVER” call from the television and barely remembers his keys to lock the front door before shutting it. 

“Where are you?” He asks and can hear that something is wrong as you try to reply. 

He can’t make any sense of what you’re saying. It’s slurred, and the end of your sentences trail off as you try and explain where you are. 

However, eventually, Gen can hear one of your team members take over. 

“Captain Narumi?” The voice is young, much like you. And if he had to guess, this was your team member, Miu. Her voice is light like a feather, but he can hear the concern colored thick in her voice. 

“Where are they?” He demands and can practically hear Miu flinch.

“Tokyo General Hospital.” She says quickly, and despite every kaiju he’s ever faced, this is what gets his body to go cold. 

“Why?” 

“I think they were drugged.” 

It was then that his heart felt like it stopped.

Gen makes it to Tokyo General Hospital in record time. Breaking a few traffic laws here and there, but that didn’t matter. 

But when he finally makes it to your hospital room, he’s met by a police officer. 

“Captian Narumi! What brings you here?” The officer asks, clearly confused to see the First Division captain. Gen scowls and peeks his gaze into where you’re waiting. He can see you dressed in a hospital gown and hooked up to an IV. 

“I’m their partner. What happened?” He says, and the officer hooks his thumbs in the loops of his belt. 

“We believe they were drugged. Officer Miu called the emergency line after your partner passed out in the bar restroom. We’re still waiting on a blood test to see what drugs specifically are in their system. We’re checking video footage, but it’ll take time.” 

Quick. 

To the point. 

Cold.

Gen grinds his teeth and hunches his shoulders. 

“Were they raped?” The words are hot on his tongue, and he fights to keep his temper under control. The officer shrugs, 

“The sexual assault nurse examiner did a rape test. Nothing has been ruled out as of yet.”

It’s then that Miu steps out of the hospital room and spots Gen. She’s dressed in all black, glitter decorating her cheekbones, and her eye makeup is all dramatic. But her mascara is smudged, and her eyes are red-rimmed and puffy. She wiped a tear away and made her way over. 

“Captain Narumi.” She says but clearly doesn’t have it in her to salute. Gen doesn’t care either way. 

“How are they?” He asks, his voice cracking in the middle. Miu dabs at her makeup with a handkerchief. 

“Better now that they’re getting fluids. They—They’re pretty shaken up.” She says quietly and clenches her fists. “I’m sorry. For not being there. I left them alone for two seconds and—”

“Oi.” He cuts her off, and she looks up, shocked. He rubs his forehead, eventually pinching the bridge of his nose where a headache is starting to form. 

“Sir?” Miu asks, and he lets out a sigh. 

“Don’t blame yourself. You called emergency services and got them help. That’s all I could ask of you.” He says, and before she can break down in tears (probably for the umpteenth time that night), steps inside your hospital room. 

Your eyes meet his within milliseconds. 

“Gen. You came.” You whimper, and he feels the dam inside him crack. 

Why hadn’t he gone with you? 

How could he have been so stupid?

“‘Course I did. How are you feeling?” He says, slumping into the chair beside your bed. You’re sat cross-legged, picking at the IV in your hand, avoiding his gaze. 

“Really stupid. Violated.” You say, and he frowns. 

“Why stupid?” He asks, and you explode. 

“Because I let this happen to me! I’m supposed to be strong and brave, and I’m neither of those things!” You shout, and he winces at the sudden noise. Your face instantly falls in shame, and you look away again. “Sorry.” You mumble, and he huffs, 

“Don’t be. It’s good to get it out of your system rather than bottle it up.” He says, but you don’t say anything until the nurse comes in. 

“Can I go home?” You ask him when the nurse is finished and about to leave. He nods. 

“If that’s what you want.” He replies, and you nod vigorously before wiping your nose. 

“I want to get out of here.” You whisper, and he can’t help but feel like you are still too shaken to be taken home. But he knows the alternative is you argue until he relents. 

So he takes you home. 

[harmonyrae]

Power Couple

CHAPTER 3 - Introductions

Concept: AU of how Sylus & you (reader) met. Both are leaders of large factions in the N109 Zone, Onychinus (Sylus) and Himitsu (you). They have been cutting into your territory over the past few weeks, so you decided an introduction is required. You laid the trap and Sylus walked right into it. But this is just the beginning...

Your fingers run along the bars. You survey the lock and the evol suppressor beacons, breathing in the scent of fresh paint. This room was your masterpiece. You were waiting for the opportunity to use it for nearly 2 months. A huge metal cage sitting in the center of the room. A metal chair chained to the floor sits inside. The lock, both mechanical for a physical key and a print scanner, sits square on the heavy door. Three large evol suppressor beacons hang from the ceiling facing the cage. Whoever sits inside would have no access to their Evol. A large black recliner sits outside the cage. A carpet with an intricate floral pattern sits beneath it. You’ve referred to it as your throne as a joke, but tonight, it will be. You can’t suppress your smile.

The thick door in the far corner of the room swings open slowly. Dorian enters the room with hastened steps.

“It’s time.”

You never attend operations. You plan them and deal with the aftermath, but never get your hands dirty. Tonight that changes. You lean your head back against the headrest. You’ve been sitting in this car for nearly 10 minutes waiting for Dorian’s signal. 

Blackburn Bar sits before you. Dorian and your team secure the building and you’ve already heard the sharp pop of a silenced handgun in the alley to your right. Your earpiece filled with confirmations as one-by-one, the men Sylus placed around the bar are taken out. You spot Dorian on the roof of the bar, setting up the signal blocker. Sylus won’t be able to call for backup or communicate with anyone for that matter. 

You check your golden watch, allowing your fingertips to trace the diamonds circling the face. It’s 10 minutes past 8pm and your heart is pounding in your throat. The bracelet sitting beside the watch faintly glowing. You’ll keep your word on the evol suppressor, not that it works on you or that you’d even need to use your evol with how many men you have stationed around the bar. 

“Green light.” Dorian whispers through the earpiece. 

Your door opens and you gingerly step out. Pulling your coat tighter around your shoulder as you walk toward the entrance of the bar. 

Ding Ding

The chime of the bell above the door rings to signal your entrance. You glance around the empty bar silently. Your eyes land on a single figure, casually leaning against a billiards table at the back of the bar. You let your eyes drift from his sleek dress shoes, to his pressed suit pants, the fitted button up closed in by a dark suit jacket adorned with swirls of red draped over him. His broad shoulders look even more impressive with the jacket hugging him tightly. His hand holds a glass of whiskey, he swirls the liquid slowly. The ring on his middle finger glowing faintly - his evol suppressor it seems. 

You dare to start your slow walk towards him, hearing your heels click on the tile beneath you. Your eyes never leave the shadowed figure. 

Your eyes fixate themselves on his chest, the top buttons of his shirt undone, then you’re staring at his face. You realize his eyes are staring right back at you. You don’t stop walking and you hold his gaze. You take in his breathtaking features. A smile tugging at one corner of his mouth. Your eyes drift up to his eyes, somehow dark and bright at the same time. They shine like rubies in the dim lights of the bar. His silver hair swept across his forehead, shielding part of one of his eyes, which you swore looked to be glowing. 

Your eyes dip back to his lips. Still set in a smirk. Your thoughts hone in on how smug he looks and how much you are looking forward to ripping that confidence from him. Then another thought invades your focus. His lips look so soft. You suddenly remember his voice from the phone call earlier that day and you try to blink away the heat rising to your cheeks. That voice, passing those lips. You bite the inside of your cheek. You plan for everything, but somehow, the one thing you did not plan for, was how to react if your rival was one of the most attractive men you’ve ever seen.

You’re finally close enough to him now, you smile sweetly. Taking in how much taller he was compared to yourself. He sets his glass on the table, still never taking his eyes off of you. 

“How many of my men did you take out before finally deciding to stroll in here?” His voice, that deep rumbling voice, still confident as ever. 

“All of them. But I’m sure you figured as much.” You’re surprised how smooth your voice sounds. You were sure there would be a twinge of panic or a stutter in there somewhere. 

“I’m impressed. I really didn’t expect Hunter to be late. Or should I say, "Miss Hunter.” 

You can’t contain your smile anymore. You’ve been waiting for this moment for years. You’d practiced a speech for the first person to receive the revelation. But realizing he had connected the dots on his own in the short walk you made from the door sent chills down your spine. To hear “Miss Hunter” - you couldn’t put words to the feeling. Proud. Satisfied. Content. All of the above. You slip your coat off your shoulders and lay it on the booth next to you. 

“Y/N.”

“Y/N.” You watch his lips form your name, it was mesmerizing. But hearing him say it, you had to break eye contact for a brief moment so he wouldn’t see your eyes light up. Your name sounds so good when he says it. 

“And you’re Sylus. The infamous leader of Onychinus.” 

“Infamous? I think ‘notorious’ is a more fitting description.” There’s that cockiness again. Oh if you could only kiss that smirk - wait, no no no - if only you could wipe that smirk off his face. 

You’re becoming acutely aware of your body temperature rising. You unbutton your blazer in an attempt to cool yourself. You straighten your shoulders and move closer to him. Realizing your face hadn’t been illuminated fully until now. For a second, you see his eyes widen slightly. His eyebrows raise and his smirk falters. It’s only for a second, but you saw it. And it’s already been filed away in your mental notes. You can overthink later, right now you need to be the leader of Himitsu. You need to make sure your plan plays out perfectly. 

You stand directly in front of him, nearly drowning in those ruby eyes before flipping the switch. 

“I think I prefer “former,” personally.” You tuck your hands in your trouser pockets and shift your weight between your feet. Back and forth. A method of self-soothing, your anxiety was building, or was it your confidence? You weren’t sure. 

“Are you planning to kill me, Miss Hunter?” For the first time, his eye contact breaks. His gaze falls as he scans your body before locking back to your eyes once more. You can feel your chest and cheeks growing hotter. You try your best to mask the fluttering in your chest.

“Oh that wouldn’t be nearly as fun, sweetie.” Your voice is deep and clear. You surprise yourself, but you’re proud. You did it.

Sylus hits the floor in a thud. The tranquilizer darts scattered across his chest. You’re almost sad that you can’t stare at those crimson eyes anymore. A faint red and black mist circles his hand slowly before dissipating in what seems like defeat. 

Dorian stands beside you now. His eyes set on you, bright with amusement.

“You okay boss? You look a little…” You clasp your hand over his mouth in one swift movement. 

“Get him to the cage.” You drop your hand revealing Dorian’s smile. You grab your jacket and stride to the door of the bar. You turn on your heel and look back at him.

“And turn the beacons to max. His evol is…” You have no idea how to describe what you felt. Evol suppressants don’t work well on you, you can resonate with any evol, but what you sensed was something different. You’re not even sure you could resonate with whatever is contained within the man now laying in a heap on the floor. 

“It’s different.” That’s the only way you can describe it. Dorian nods. Turning to work with the other men who have arrived to secure Sylus. 

You leave the bar and climb into the car at the curb. Immediately hitting the switch on the ceiling to close the barrier between the driver and the passenger area. You catch your driver's gaze, he throws you a knowing wink before the screen completely closes. Harvey was used to you needing to have a moment of privacy while he drives you around the zone. He once drove around for 3 hours to let you nap undisturbed. 

With the screen closed, you tear off your blazer and aim the car vents at your face cranking the air conditioner to the max. You open the mini cooler under the seat in front of you and pull a mini bottle of champagne out. You rip off the cap and drink it quickly, the bubbles burning your throat. Your stomach is still doing back flips. You look out the window, the tint so dark you only see your reflection.

“I am not going to let this man get under my skin. I have worked too damn hard to waste this opportunity just because he is attractive. I will not…” Your determination drifting away as the echo of Sylus saying your name floods in your mind. 

This is going to be more complicated than you thought.

Words: 1,645

Chapter 1: https://shorturl.at/Bx95C Chapter 2: https://shorturl.at/3PwTi Chapter 3: https://shorturl.at/a7xnF Chapter 4: https://shorturl.at/fKYgX

Tag List (comment if you wanna be added!): @trishiepo0

[oceanic-sunsets]

Mike Wheeler and Will Byers, Character Arcs explained by the Duffers and Letting Characters surprise you

I’ve been so excited to write this analysis because I love talking about character’s arcs, development, and storytelling in general. For this particular analysis, I’m going to focus mostly on Mike, the Wheelers, and Will, but I’ll touch on a few other important characters too to draw parallels/give examples. 

Once again, I’ll remind you that I believe Mike is gay, so my analysis will touch a lot on the subject. 

Now let’s get into it:) 

I’m going to start this off with a few notes from the Duffer’s Masterclass, lesson 7: Character Development. They tell us their creative process, how they come up with characters, what defines them, and later on, what their main arc will be. 

So as we can see, some names were changed, Will was Tommy and Mike was Joel. Something that stands out is that Mike, since he was named Joel, has always been intended to be Will’s best friend, the closest one of his friends. 

Now, for Sheriff’s daughter, the Duffers mention how she didn’t make the cut, and this is only me assuming, but it sounds like the role Max would later on have: she’s the new girl who two of the main kids are interested on. 

Next we are shown the following characters’ descriptions: 

The Duffers then explain how a lot of it “mostly stuck”, how some stuff didn’t make it into the show, and then we have characters whose name changed but their purpose stayed the same, or those who got some traits swapped up with a different character. For example, how the “Billy Flanagan” role was first represented by Steve back in S1, and later on by Billy, even with the same name. 

I’ll talk about a few characters, their old traits vs what I think (based on the show) they ended up changing. 

Karen Wheeler: She's first described as a great, overprotective mom, who suffocates Mike and tries to protect him from the evil around him. She hides from his husband. Projects happiness but actually very sad inside. This obviously didn’t stick. This sounds an awful lot like Joyce, word for word. See, instead: Julie Conley. We’ll get to that in a bit.

Ted Wheeler: Suburban, always busy with work, never around and not close to his son.  This is still pretty spot on. Ted Wheeler was always meant to be exactly who he is. But wait, could there be more to it?

Mike Wheeler: --introduce him with DnD-- shy, birthmark on his face and neck, which he is bullied for. No confidence outside his friend group. Ultimately coming of age, falls in love with El.  Mike’s connection with DnD and being bullied stayed. The rest, however? it all changed. Notice how Karen used to have a role more similar to what ended up becoming Joyce. Now, look at Mike’s first description. Sounds familiar, right? That’s because it basically describes our Will: shy, with an overprotective mom, no confidence outside his friend group and with the ultimately coming of age. Falls in love with El Mike. I’ll get back to Will in a bit, for now, let’s go back to Mike. The Duffers also mention how his character completely changed and it was influenced by Finn Wolfhard’s performance: the Mike we know isn’t shy, quite the opposite! he’s brave and fills up the group leader’s role. 

What does this mean? It means his character arc can’t stay the same, because his fundamental traits, those that define him as a character and give him a drive, also changed. See one of Will Byer’s previous descriptions: More normal. Rings any bell?:) 

Lucas Conley: Nerd, dungeon master, dresses in black, glasses, LOTR and other fantasy books, videogames, unkempt. As the Duffers say themselves: this is nothing like our Lucas Sinclair. Instead, it sounds more like…

You guessed it, Mike! With his Hellfire t-shirt, long hair, more edgy look and interest in videogames and fantasy. This is not the only reason why I think Mike ended up filling this character’s role. Just wait until you read the next ones.

Terry Conley: Lucas' dad, disappointed in his son, makes him shave his head and hair, abusive with his mother. Very obviously not our Lucas’ dad. Instead, it’s a mix of both Ted (disappointed) AND Lonnie (disappointed and also abusive). Why do I include Ted, when you could arguably say he’s not disappointed, just never there emotionally? Because of the hair thing and his wife’s description. By saying he makes his son shave his head and hair, it’s implied that it’s because it’s long/not “normal”, or “adequate” enough. Ted Wheeler is an absent father, but he also represents conformity and traditional values: he would not support his son’s hairstyle choices. 

Julie Conley: Lucas's mom, very sweet, doesn't stand up for Lucas, should leave dad but doesn't. Again, not our Lucas’s mom. This is word for word the Karen Wheeler we know: sweet but doesn’t really stand up for her kids. Should leave Ted (see: the almost-cheating plot and their unhappy marriage), but doesn’t. 

This is the family that’s meant to represent normalcy, conformity and traditional values, but they happen to have a rebellious son. THIS is the role that the Wheelers ended up filling, you see it very clearly from the very start with Nancy, a little bit with Mike (who then retreats, trying to fill his expected role) and we start seeing a glimpse of rebellious Mike again in s4. 

Will Byers: Mike’s best friend, more normal, more shy, goes missing, killed by an entity.  He doesn’t have much of a description, but besides going missing, two traits stay: Mike’s best friend, and shy. As I mentioned when I talked about Mike, since his traits changed, so did his character arc. He’s still the shy, missing kid that drives the show, defined partly by this experience and the events that revolve about it. We just have to add the missing pieces to it: (see: Mike Wheeler’s original description) lacks confidence outside of friendgroup. Overprotective mother. Tied with DnD. Bullied. Ultimately coming of age. Falls in love with El Mike. 

Need more convincing, more proof? Let’s take a look at this section of the show’s bible. 

Now again, with my notes. The yellow highlighter represents what is true to Will’s character, and the blue one represents Mike (yeah, I know, I know). 

“He’s never had a first kiss, much less a girlfriend. [...] he will discover a courage he didn’t know he had. By the end, he will even kiss a girl.” This was meant to be Mike’s original character arc. You COULD argue that it’s only about season 1, but even then, it is not true to the events of the show. Mike’s s1 story was NEVER about his insecurities with girls, not having a girlfriend, and finding courage. The entirety of Mike’s actions in s1 (and therefore, his arc) are driven by Will’s disappearance and the goal of FINDING him. It’s NEVER, not even once, not even when other characters try to convince him of it, getting a girlfriend and kissing a girl, despite having kissed El by the end of s1. 

Instead, whose plot is intrinsically TIED with romance and a confirmed coming-of-age story about finding courage within yourself? 

Yeah:) And you KNOW what’s the logical conclusion the Duffers have written for this particular arc? “By the end, he will even kiss a girl boy.” That’s the resolution to this kind of arc. NOT rejection. It is a pretty clear example of “Taking a character from point A to point B”. 

The Duffers say: “you can’t give everyone an amazing, big arc. [...] We gave Mike the biggest arc in terms of him coming of age” and then explain how IMPORTANT it is to not try to explain everything all at once, instead, drop hints so you're telling the audience, "this is an important part of this character and we're going to continue to explore it, but we're just getting started you can't just include it all, reveal it all too soon”. You can’t make it too complex from the very beginning either, instead, simplify and slow down.

Then they mention how they like to take a character that's a stereotype, make the audience believe they know this character, make them believe it’s a comfortable portrayal, something they know. And then you flip it and reveal there's more to this character because no one can be so easily defined. However, just HINT it. The reveal will happen on its own, at the right time for the story.

So, based on all of this… What do I think that happened?

This might be an unpopular opinion, but I do not think they planned byler from the very start. I think they had an idea of what they wanted to do, of what message they wanted the show to send, but found out along the way a different, more natural, and groundbreaking way to accomplish that. And I think they realized as soon as early s1, when they knew they wanted it to become a several seasons show rather than a limited series. It’s no coincidence there are elements like Will’s sexuality, homophobia, and conformity present from the very beginning. But they also found a way to portray this in a subtle way so it made sense in both outcomes: if they didn’t get a s2, s1 could still stand on its own, make sense, and feel resolved enough. If they got more seasons, they had more time to hint at this story, get the greenlight, and develop it over the course of all the seasons.

I also think the characters themselves, despite being written by them, lead them to this conclusion naturally. As they say in their masterclass… 

“You can drive and throw obstacles at them, but they can become very real, and sometimes they end up doing their own thing, surprising you”.

To finish this analysis, let’s do a little exercise. 

What is Mike’s Overall Arc, considering the following? 

His family represents conformity, an upper-middle-class household that’s apparently normal and very traditional. 

Both Nancy and Mike are meant to be the Rebellious Children in their very normal, traditional family.

Mike goes from leader to comic relief, to the Angry-closed off-messes-up character archetype. This is so evident that he even becomes unlikeable to most of the General Audience.

The Duffers remind us that hints are important and addressed later. Seemingly ‘weird’ actions and off personality have an explanation: there’s something deeper going on with Mike. You cannot address it all at once, it has to be over the course of episodes and seasons.

More advice from the writers: sometimes you plan something but end up realizing it works out better in a different way. Sometimes your own characters surprise you, and take you to the path that is more natural for them, who they are, and their story.

Mike’s character arc was never getting the girl once the Duffers really established who Mike was. 

And with that, I conclude this analysis. :) Wait for the next one! Please tell me your thoughts if you liked this and read this far. I love reading your tags and comments.

[corruptedcaps]

Train ride

Jessica had been looking forward to getting home all day. She had stayed late at work to finish a project and was now on the train, heading back to her apartment. It was late, the train was practically empty, and Jessica was exhausted. She just wanted to close her eyes and rest for a while.

But that was not going to happen. A group of chav girls had gotten on at the previous station, and they were loud and rowdy. They were drinking from bottles of wine, swearing and laughing, and generally making a scene. Jessica tried her best to ignore them, but their voices were so loud that it was impossible not to hear them.

The girls were oblivious to Jessica's presence. They were too busy having fun, and they didn't care who knew it. Jessica sat in silence, her eyes closed, trying to block out the noise. Finally she heard them disembark and all was silent again.

For a moment anyway because her new silence was interrupted by the buzzing of a phone. Opening her eyes she spied across at the seats where the girls had been and saw the phone vibrating. Clearly one of them had forgot it.

She hesitated for a second, wondering what to do. She could have just left it there, but something made her stand up and walk over to it. By the time she got there it had stopping ringing. Looking at the missed call it seemed like someone called ‘Mandy’ had been trying to reach her. Probably one of the other girls in the group.

Jessica was about to dial them back with the phone when curiosity got the better of her and she started snooping around in the phone. But as she scrolled through the messages, she started to see things she wasn't expecting. There were saucy messages, lewd pictures, and even some bullying social media posts.

Jessica felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment as she read the messages. She had never seen anything like this before, and she felt like she was intruding on someone's private life. But she couldn't stop herself from reading. The more she read, the more she felt kind of horny. Sure the pictures of this faceless girl showing her tits to a plethora of guys was hot, even to her as a straight woman, but it was the naughtiness of going through someone else’s phone that added a whole other level.

She found herself playing with her hair as she delved deeper and deeper into the contents of the phone. She began twirling it around her finger, with her long acrylic nails like someone knitting with long needles. Had she had the nails on this morning, she thought for a fleeting moment before being pulled back to the phone.

The owner of the phone was clearly a huge hit with men, judging by the various social media posts she made wearing skimpy clothes. They gained thousands of likes and she enjoyed posting them with bitchy captions like “Watch out girls, your men aren’t safe tonight.” Jessica found herself admiring the various outfits the woman wore.

They reminded her of her own trashy style she cultivated. That very moment she was wearing a shorter than short white skirt with a tight, midriff exposing, white top to match. Although for a second she could have sworn she had wore a smart business outfit that day.

“As if, I wouldn’t be caught in something so shit.” She said scoffing to herself as she lovingly brushed some hair off her skirt. She couldn’t wait to get out to the club tonight and show off her assets which we’re looking great in her new top.

And yet there was a nagging voice in the back on her head. A weak annoying voice telling her something was wrong, that something wasn’t right about how she was dressed, how she was thinking or even her memories. Wasn’t she on the way home not on the way out to some club? Her head was starting to hurt when the phone buzzed as it got a message from Tanya. Jessica tapped it and read eagerly.

“Jesy where are you babe? Me and the girls can’t be out without our fearless leader.” It read. Jessica read it over and over again, each time solidifying a new reality in her mind. She wasn’t Jessica, some drone who worked in a meaningless office job. The once-shy and introverted Jessica was now gone, replaced by a Jesy, the confident, loud and obnoxious Chav queen.

So lost in her new memories she hadn’t noticed she had got off the train and was currently waiting on the opposite platform for the next one to arrive. She began chewing on a piece of gum that seemed to magically appear in her mouth as a smile curled up on her face as new memories finally completely overwrote her old ones.

Just as the next train was pulling into the station, Jesy tapped on Tanya’s phone number and was quickly picked up.

“Babes where the fuck are you? We’re nearly at the club.” Tanya said down the line as a group of men came onto the train soon after Jesy.

Jessie's eyes darted towards the group. They were loud and boisterous, just like the Chav girls from before. Her chavs. Her eyes locked onto the strongest, most handsome one of the bunch. A sly smirk spread across her face as she looked at him, and she knew she had to have him.

“Sorry babes I got a little distracted by my phone but don’t you sluts go in without me, yeah?” Jesy said as she ended the call without Tanya replying. She had attention fully on her prize.

She clopped towards the men with her high heel shoes, holding herself with a sexy confidence Jessica never had. They had stopped talking to watch her saunter over to them. As she passed them she grabbed the hand of the handsome guy and led him to the back of the train, his friends hooting and hollering after him.

Jessie walked through the carriages, swaying her hips and tossing her hair back seductively. She could feel the eyes of the man on her as she made her way to the bathrooms. As soon as they walked in, she turned around and pressed her body against his, kissing him passionately.

“What’s your name?” He asked pulling away for just a second. She was annoyed by this.

“Who the fuck cares? Just get that cock out now!” She said as she roughly pulled at his belt until she saw what she wanted. He didn’t disappoint. He turned her around and hiked up her mini skirt, happy to find no underwear as a barrier.

She moaned proudly as he started to thrust vigorously into her. She grinned with delight at her reflection as she watch him pound away and noticed the wedding band on his finger. She loved nothing more than fucking married men. They always fucked like their life depended on it.

“God your cunt is so tight for such a slut.” He groaned as he came hard into her causing her eyes to roll back in her head happily. She hoped it wouldn’t be the last time she’d have a cock inside her tonight.

“Oh shit my stop.” He said stumbling out of the stall back towards his friends, not even taking a second glance at her. It was how she liked it. She touched up her makeup as the train pulled in and she took her time to walk back to her seat. Taking out her phone she snapped a selfie of herself to post online with the caption “nothing beats a train ride 😉”.

A few more stops and she’d be back with her girls, leading them on the dance floor with muscular men vying for their attention. However as the train pulled into another stop, her eye caught arrival of another hunk and she wondered how quick she could get him to the bathroom.

[vemaro]

alone again

[PART 2]

A link to PART 1 and PART 3

Pairing: Astarion x Tav (female Tav)

Word count: ~2100

Notes: Two down, one to go! Once I finish the third bit, I have way more ideas I hope to write. I hope no one minds that these aren’t super cohesive. Everything will be set in the AU, but it won’t necessarily be in order. As usual, thanks for reading! Any feedback is appreciated!

…

As soon as the ceremony is over, Terrick informs his wife of some business that needs attending to in the Upper City (a party). He gives her a kiss on the cheek (they are in public) and leaves without so much as an invitation (not that she wants to go). Unfortunately, he takes the carriage they arrived in, which means she’ll have to walk all the way home. In the tight dress. In the uncomfortable shoes. With an irate little boy. Perfect.

A pull on the skirts of Tav’s dress brings her attention downward. “Mama, I saw a bunch of our friends. Over there. See?” He points to the back of the crowd. And there they are, gathered at the lip of an alleyway. Callum waves at them and they wave back.

She plays with his hair, purposely messing it up. “I saw them, Callum.”

He yanks on her arm, trying to pull her offstage. “Let’s go, let’s go, let’s go!”

His eagerness is infectious. “We’re going, we’re going,” she laughs. Tav makes sure to signal them to stay put where they are, she and Callum will come to them.

Most of the people have dispersed by now, either having gone inside to use the food bank or left after the speeches. It’s not difficult for the little boy to navigate through what’s left. Tav can’t deny her own eagerness to reunite with everyone. She’s missed them all dearly. It’s been years since so many of them have been in the city concurrently, not since the final fight against the Elder Brain. Lae’zel immediately ran into a battle to save her people from Vlaakith. Wyll and Karlach went to Avernus. Gale stayed behind for a little while, but eventually left for a position at Blackstaff Academy. Astarion is no longer safe from the sun so he went into the Underdark. Shadowheart stayed the longest, but she too ventured out of the city, following Aylin and Isobel.

Tav considered asking to tag along with someone, but she felt it wasn’t her place to insert herself into their lives. If they wanted her around, surely they would’ve invited her … right? So she stayed, in wait for when any of her friends would pass through the Gate again. She grew very lonely, then again, she should be used to solitude. That was her life before the Nautiloid, why would things change after?

Karlach breaks away from the party and meet them in the middle. “Oh look, if it isn’t our fearless leader and the brave little soldier!” She snatches up Callum, who squeals with joy. “Don’t you two look ready for an adventure out in the woods.”

Tav rolls her eyes. “Shut it.” She didn’t pick this ridiculous frock.

Gale, the gentleman he is, steps up to defend her honor. “Well, I think you look positively radiant, Tav.” He takes one of her hands and presses a chaste kiss to her knuckles.

Tav does a small curtsy in return. “Thank you, Mr. Dekarios.”

“The color doesn’t suit you,” Lae’zel says. That’s it. No proper greeting.

Shadowheart points a sour look at the gith warrior. “Tactful as always, I see.”

Wyll joins the conversation. “Lae’zel, does the phrase if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all ring any bells?”

“No,” she says, slightly defensive. “And I fail to see why you mention it. The color of her dress isn’t visually appealing and by informing her, she won’t make this mistake again in the future. If anything, I’m being very nice.”

“To be fair,” Tav says, in Lae’zel’s defense. “I have half a mind to take a dagger and cut myself out of the bodice. It’s suffocating.”

“A dagger? Darling, you know I always carry one or two on me.” Astarion steps out of the alleyway carrying an enchanted umbrella in one hand and a dagger in the other. And not just any dagger, but the Sussur dagger she forged specifically for him early on in their travels. Back when they fooled around like a couple of innocent teenagers and she thought she had a chance. Back before she knew what he’d been through and gave up that chance. “Allow me the honors?”

Tav has to make a show of pretending to be flustered, while actually being flustered. “As tempting as your offer may be—” And gods, is it tempting. “—I’ll have to pass.”

Oddly enough, instead of dropping the smirk, it ticks up a little higher. He tucks his weapon away. “Boo. No fun.”

“It’s nice to see you too, Astarion,” she comments dryly.

He does a sort of half bow. “And it’s always a pleasure to see you, dear.”

“Asty!”

Karlach must’ve put him down at some point and now her son is charging at Astarion. Tav’s heart seizes in panic. “Wait, Callum, be careful!” The enchantment only works within the perimeter of the umbrella. If Callum accidentally knocks the vampire over, not only would it hurt him, it would also cause a huge scene.

Thankfully, Gale plucks the child up before any harm can be done. “Hello, Callum. Don’t you look dashing?”

The little boy frowns and tugs on his collar. “I don’t like these clothes. I can’t play in them.”

The wizard frowns in sympathy. “I can’t play in my clothes either.”

Feeling shy, Callum looks away. “But … can you still do magic?”

“Hmm. Let’s see, shall we?” With a flick of the wrist and a couple hand gestures, Gale conjures up a small glowing prism. “It appears so,” he says with a smug grin.

Callum cautiously reaches to touch it, but when the prism abruptly changes shape, he flinches back in surprise. Now it’s in the form of a sphere. The boy claps with excitement. “I love magic!”

“Me too.”

Astarion clears his throat. “Yoohoo! Hello! I'm the one you were going for. Not Professor Chatty.”

Gale tuts at the vampire. “If I hadn’t stepped in, you would’ve turned to ash”

“Gods below,” Astarion mutters. “I can handle a toddler bumping into me.”

Shadowheart arches a challenging brow. “Are you sure?”

“Yes!”

“I have my doubts,” Lae’zel interjects. No one can tell if she’s being serious or only teasing. Either way, it has everyone else (but Astarion) laughing.

Callum sees that he’s upset and holds out his arms. He makes grabby hands. “Don’t be sad, Asty. I love you.”

Those three little words still do a number on the man’s unbeating heart. Gale holds out the boy enough that Astarion can safely grab hold of him. Once he’s situated on his hip, he takes a deep breath. “I love you too, as long as I’m still your favorite.”

The Blade of Frontiers detects a lie. “I wasn’t there, but I heard you weren’t his favorite.” Astarion glares at him. Wyll holds up his hands in surrender. “Unless I heard wrong.”

Karlach snorts. “You didn’t.”

Shadowheart rolls her eyes. “You’re not the favorite either.”

And the tiefling drops her head in shame. “Ah, don’t remind me.”

Gale perks up at the news. “Wait, am I—”

“No.”

And he too drops his head. “Oh …”

Lae’zel shakes her head. “Chk. Of course his mother is his favorite. Only a fool would believe otherwise.”

Astarion glares at the fighter. “Tav shouldn’t count. Everyone loves her. She’s always the favorite.”

She’s certainly not Terrick’s favorite and that is a fact. Tav gasps, feigning defensiveness. “Excuse me? I don’t count?”

If he could, he’d pinch the ridge of his nose, but alas his arms are full of children and umbrellas. So he just closes his eyes, too frustrated to look at her. “That’s the part you clung to?”

Now she’s preening. “Don’t worry, I also heard you say I’m your favorite.”

Fuck. Is he blushing? He fed on a deer last night. Would the shade from the umbrella obscure the change in tint? “I said you were the favorite, dear. Not my favorite. Do get your hearing checked.”

Tav cocks her head to the side like a curious owlbear cub. “So I’m not your favorite?”

“As of right now, no.”

She lays her head on his shoulder, feeling bold today. “You love me.” Not in the same way that she loves him (or so she thinks), but she’ll take what she can get.

Definitely not blushing. Definitely not blushing. “I tolerate you and your obnoxious goody-two-shoes personality.”

The druid is feeling very bold, perhaps a tiny bit masochistic. “Awe, I love you, too, Astarion.” And she pecks him on the cheek. The regret floods her mind and body as soon as she pulls away. Shit. But it’s fine! Friends can show other friends physical affection. Gale kissed her hand not five minutes ago. She plants one on her son next. “A-and I love you, Callum.”

“I love you, Mama!” Callum places a small kiss on Astarion’s other cheek. “I love you too, Asty!” He then proceeds to tell everyone in the vicinity that he loves them, therefore saving Tav from having to kiss each and every one of her friends in order to cover her own ass. Crisis averted. Gods, that boy is a blessing.

So is Gale. “So, Tav, do you have to stay here at the food bank or are you free for the day?”

Her heart flutters in anticipation. Is he going to suggest they all do something together? Robyn hopes so. “I’m done,” she says quickly. “Nothing left to do here. I have no plans.”

“Splendid! Since this is the first time in a long time we’ve all been in the city, I say we should spend the day together.” He looks around their circle of friends. “Any objections?”

Karlach shakes her head. “Nope.”

“None at all,” Wyll agrees.

It’s happening! She could weep from joy. “That’s a great idea, Gale,” Tav exclaims. “I love it.” She can barely contain her excitement. She has fistfuls of her dress in her hands—oh wait. “Uh, I do need to head home first.”

“No,” Callum whines, tears glistening in the corners of his eyes. “I don’t want to go! I want to stay!”

Gods, so does she. Tav stands with her hand on her knees. “Don’t you want out of these stuffy clothes?” He nods. “Then we need to go home to do that, okay?” She holds out her arms to take him from Astarion.

The boy doesn’t move. “Then we can come back?”

Tav taps the tip of his nose, drawing out a small giggle. “Then we can come back. Promise.” Satisfied with his mother’s answer, he climbs into her arms. “Give me two hours, tops. Wait for us in the Elfsong.”

“Why so long?” Shadowheart asks.

Tav deadpans at the question. “My wonderful husband took the carriage, which means I get to walk back to the Upper City.” She worries her lip between her teeth. “Unless someone has to leave soon, in which case, I will stay.” She’ll suffer through discomfort if it means spending time with everyone.

The cleric is quick to reassure her. “No no, that’s fine. No one has to leave yet.”

“Oh. Good. Thank you.” She adjusts her grip on her son and starts to walk away. “I’ll try not to take too long then.”

Karlach goes over and nudges the vampire forward. “Fangs, go with her. A proper lady like her needs an escort.”

Tav almost trips on a dip in the road when she spins around to face them. “O-oh, no, it’s fine. He doesn’t have to—you don’t have to if you don’t want to, Astarion. You can wait with the others in the tavern.”

Callum bounces in Tav’s arms. “Asty’s coming?”

“No, he’s going to wait—”

He holds out his arm. “I want him to come.”

Astarion turns and gives the barbarian a face that reads I’m going to fucking kill you. Karlach just gives him a shit-eating grin. When he turns back to the mother and son, he’s all smiles. “It seems the decision has been made for us, hm?” He ambles over then extends the arm not holding the umbrella. “Shall we?”

Tav hesitates. In that moment of hesitation, she comes up with several reasons she should continue to insist he stay. It takes another moment for her to convince herself to ignore herself. Tav ultimately switches Callum to her other hip then grabs his arm. “If you’re sure. Will the enchantment last?”

Gale scoffs. “Of course it will last. I cast the spell myself.” He shoos them along. “Off, you three. While the day is still young.”

A bundle of nerves settles itself in her gut. She trusts Astarion. She trusts him with her life. More importantly, she trusts him with Callum’s life. The one she doesn’t trust right now is herself. “Okay …” Tav looks up at the vampire and tries for her best imitation of a genuine smile. “Let’s go then.”

He smirks back. “Lead on.”

[marve2014]

No Time Like the Present

Wednesday Addams x fem!reader 

Part Four

Summary: Y/N meets Thing.

Warnings: Minor mention of violence, bullying.

Minors DNI

Word Count:2.9K

Authors Note: All characters aged up to 18. This is where the story diverges from the actual story line.

Outreach day was one day a year that the students of Nevermore coexisted with the kids of Jericho in order to "strengthen the bonds” between the two groups; At least that’s the spiel the mayor keeps giving all the businesses so they’ll let Nevermore students work in their shops. Tyler and I spent the morning talking about Wednesday and I’s not official, official first date while we waited for our Nevermore kid to show up. We were assigned the one and only Xavier Thorpe; the same one who hates Tyler and honestly makes me uncomfortable with how he looks at me and Wednesday. Making my iced coffee before people start trickling in, Xavier comes walking in. 

“Hello Xavier, how are you today?” you ask, trying to make polite conversation.

“I’m good y/n, how are you feeling after last night?” he smirks as he grabs an apron and makes his way behind the counter.

“If you must know, I had an amazing time. First dates are never really what you expect them to be, are they?” Smiling as you remember the feeling of Wednesday's hand in yours.. 

“First date? With who?” you can see the confusion flash across his face and can’t help but chuckle.

“With Wednesday of course. She was the one who demanded it was a date”. You decide to embellish the story just a little bit to make him even more uncomfortable  

“Wait, you and Wednesday?!? ‘“ he asks clearly shocked at the information you just provided.

“Yes, me and Wednesday. Is that a problem?' you question coldly.

“No, no, no problem at all. Just a little confused. I thought I was more her type.” He confesses as he starts wiping down the counter “guess she wasn’t playing hard to get, huh? Oh crap. And when I flirted with you before! Jesus I’m on idiot”

"Oblivious, yes, an idiot, eh, harsh words” you defend and give him a smile.

Tyler walks out of the breakroom and notices you and Xavier talking, you look over to him and he sends you a look that you know can lead to nothing good.

“I will be right back Xavier, it seems I am being summoned by that doofus over there” you laugh, walking towards Tyler as he pulls you into a hug when you reach him.

"Wednesday is at pilgrim world, wearing the costume and everything, we have no customers and Xavier can handle the few that come in.” Tyler rushes out all in one breath. 

“On my goodness, yes! Lets go! I’m so gonna use this to blackmail her. Xavier? We’ll be back in 10 minutes hold down the fort.” 

“Aye, aye captain.”  he mock salutes you as you and Tyler make your way to pilgrim word. Looking through the crowd trying to find Wednesday, you notice a smaller kid surrounded by 3 older boys – all dressed up like pilgrims. You leave Tyler and make your way over and see the smaller boy struggling as one of the older ones is trying to force him into a wooden contraption.

“HEY! LEAVE HIM ALONE!” You run over and all of them stare at you.

“Go away, this doesn’t have anything to do with you, outcast lover.” The ring leader says as he tries to get the small boy to stop squirming. You look around trying to find an adult as you feel someone walk directly next to you. 

“Howdy Pilgrims.” You look and see Wednesday staring at the situation with a cold decisive look in her eyes. “ I suggest you let Eugene go”. Wednesday rests her arm on the top of the wooden stock preventing it from closing on him. 

“What do you want to end up in the stocks too?” The ring leader asks as you pull the kid Wednesday called Eugene from the wooden stock and put your arm around his shoulder to comfort him.

“If I recall, we did this dance before and it didn’t end up well for you.” Wednesday smugly states as the larger boy makes a move to grab her. You stay with Eugene and Wednesday ends up tossing the kid to the floor and breaks his finger; all of the Jericho boys flee and you and Wednesday tend to Eugene. You're cleaning his uniform when Wednesday walks over and takes in the both of you smiling and laughing despite what just happened. 

“Why do I always find you in trouble?” Wednesday asks while you finish cleaning up Eugene.

“Well I couldn’t let them just be mean to Eugene. It would be like hurting a puppy!” You laugh and stare at Wednesday noticing how beautiful she looks.

“You are absolutely gorgeous. How did I get so lucky?” You ask and can tell Wednesday is starting to blush.

“I assume you two know each other?” Eugene interrupts. 

“Yes Eugene, this is y/n. She’s a normie. But she’s MY normie.” Wednesday declares ready to defend you if Eugene were to say something cross. You can feel your cheeks heating up at her casualness of mentioning you two being an item, unable to hide your smile you grab Wednesdays hand in yours.

“Well Eugene, it was a pleasure meeting you but I need to borrow Wednesday here.” You smile and lead both you and Wednesday back to the Weathervane walking in, still hand and hand with each other you make Wednesday sit at the table closest to the cash register you leave her there while you make her, her usual all the while Xavier is staring at you both mouth gaped open,with how easily she is letting you order her around; something he imaged should not even be possible with how strong willed the Wednesday Addams he knows is.  Xavier makes his way over to the table you sat Wednesday at and smugly looks her up and down.

“Never thought I would see Wednesday Addams act so domestic.”

“Xavier, I’m going to stay this once and only once, if you value your life you’re going to keep your mouth shut and not mention what’s seen here today to anyone at Nevermore.”

“Ill keep that in mind.” He smiles and makes a move to sit across from Wednesday.

“Xavier, if I’m not mistaken, you’re supposed to actually work; not harass customers. Go wipe something down.” You glare and make sure he’s away from Wednesday before she can threaten him anymore. Finishing up her drink, you walk over and take where Xavier was going to sit. You look Wednesday in the eyes “I am taking you somewhere tonight, be at the gates of the school at 9:00p.m. Okay? And dress warm. I don’t want you catching a cold.”

“Fine, but I need to talk to Tyler, has he made it back yet?” She questions.

“No clue, let me check the back. One minute”. You run to the back break room and see Tyler sitting in one of the chairs drinking an energy drink and playing some game on his phone. 

“Wednesday needs you, please and thank youuuu.” You smile and wait for him to follow. 

“The peasant you were seeking ma’am.” You motion to tyler.

“How can I be of service?” Tyler jokes as Wednesday pulls out a map she got from Pilgrim World.

“I need to know where on this map is the old pilgrims meeting house from the 1600s.” 

Tyler looks down at the map confused and then points to a secluded area.

“There, but its kind of sketchy, Squatters and meth heads use it as a crash pad. My dad has to clear it out every few weeks. Why are you looking for it?” 

“No reason.” Wednesday coldly states as she looks from Tyler to you. 

“Becoming obsessed with the monster in the woods, are we?” Tyler jokes.

“Okayyyy, and that’s enough interaction between the two of you. Wednesday here has to go play her cello and then she has a date to get ready for” you usher Tyler away and pull Wednesday in for a hug. You feel her stiffen and then immediately relax into your arms. “I will see you later, Lovely. Okay?” You kiss her cheek and send her on her way.

Feeling the stares from both Tyler and Xavier, you ignore both of them and make yourself a coffee before the lunch rush comes in. 

The rest of the shift goes by without a hitch, Xavier staying away from Tyler, and everyone staying away from you until it was time to close. You and Tyler head to your house so you can get ready for your date. 

“So what exactly did you plan for your date?” Tyler asks as he starts rummaging through the fridge looking for a snack.

“A dinner picnic. You can eat anything in that fridge but so help me if you touch the cheese. It’s for tonight.” You yell as you make your way up the stairs. Looking through your clothes, you decide on jeans and a sweater so that you will be warm in the cold night air. Walking back down stairs you get a picnic basket from the Hall closet and bring it into the kitchen. Getting some fancy bread, crackers, fruit and cheese you start loading it all up as Tyler sits there watching eating some form of food in an old takeout container. 

“Do you think shell like this?” You nervously ask, placing some drinks into the basket.

“I think she would literally let you sit there and just stare at her and she would have a good time. I mean you got kidnapped and she classified it as a date.” 

“You’re not wrong. Okay, foods packed, Im ready. You can stay if you want. My mom will be home in like an hour; you know she loves feeding you. I’m out.” You hug Tyler, leaving him in the house as you make your way to the gates of Nevermore. Pulling near the gates, you see Wednesday and you put the car in park and hop out. Grabbing the black roses you hid in the backseat, you make your way over to her and pull the passenger door open for her.

“I know you love black flowers, and these are a lot easier to find than black dahlias. I hope you like them.” You smile as you close her door and get in the drivers side. 

“Thank you for the flowers, not everyone can appreciate a dead flower. But I do.”

“Kay, so I promise im not bringing you to our next location to murder you. I feel like you could take me down and kill me faster than I could kill you, however, It is a spooky place, but that’s your vibe, and I want you to be comfortable.” You explain nervously as you start driving toward your destination. 

Pulling into an old cemetery you see a small smile at the corners of Wednesday’s lips. 

‘’This is an acceptable location for the date.” Wednesday tries to not seem excited.

You get the blanket and pillows while Wednesday grabs the picnic basket and you make your way to the back of the cemetery. Placing everything down, you and Wednesday begin to eat the snacks you prepared. 

“Can I ask something without you getting offended?” You cautiously ask Wednesday, making her put down her crackers.

“I suppose that’s okay. Go ahead.” She responds.

“What makes me different? Everyone else gets this cold version of you, but I seem to get a softer side.” You grab her hand and start drawing small circles on the back of her knuckles. 

“I don’t know what you mean. I treat you the same exact way I treat everyone else.” She argues but keeps her hand held within yours. 

“Oh really? So if anyone else held your hand, you’d be fine? Or if anyone else did this?” You lean forward and gently cup the side of Wednesday’s face and bring your lips to hers. You can feel her resist the kiss and you start to pull back thinking you made a huge mistake. As a wave of embarrassment begins to wash over you, you feel Wednesday's hands on each side of your head, tangling her hands in your hair, pulling you closer and deepening the kiss; neither of you stopping until you need to come up for air. You look over at Wednesday's flushed state and start to giggle. 

“So you would let anyone else do that? I have to say, if this is gonna work, I’m gonna need that to not happen.”

“If anyone else did that to me I would gouge their eyes out and deliver them to you on a bed of roses. Only you get to do that to me, there are a lot of things you make me feel that I can not explain. It should repel me, disgust me, but one look at your smile and I now understand why the sun dies for the moon each night. Before you, I was destined to live a lonely existence. But the mere thought of never seeing you again brings me a pain that for once, I do not enjoy. I am learning that there is more to life than solitude and just living to eventually die.” Leaning over Wednesday takes the initiative to lay herself slotted between your legs, her back to your chest as she brings your hands to hold hers as they rest on her stomach. Too shocked to say anything you just squeeze Wednesday further into your arms and rest your head on top of hers. You both enjoy each others company while staring at the stars and continuing to eat the snacks you packed. 

“So what are your parents like?” You ask. “I saw their photo in that weird library we went to.” 

“My parents have always loved each other more than life itself. Growing up with them was sickening; always having to see how much they loved each other. I also have a brother, his name is Pugsley. He’s defenseless at best, he’s the reason I got sent here. There were kids at school bullying him; they tied him up and shoved him in a locker. I don’t like when people mess with the people that I care about if you haven’t noticed. Eugene reminds me a lot of Pugsley, minus the urge to strangle him constantly.”

Wednesday gets a faraway look in her eyes as she talks more about her family, her Uncle Fester, Thing. 

“Wait wait wait! So he’s actually just a hand? Like just the hand, no arm, no body and he’s able to communicate and move?” You ask excitedly, wanting to meet him immediately.

“It’s one of the great Addams Family mysteries. He’s over there by that headstone if you want to meet him. He was with us in the library as well. You’re kind of unobservant.” Wednesday laughs and snaps her fingers calling Thing over.

“Thing, this is y/n, y/n this is Thing.” Wednesday introduces.

You squeal with excitement. “Ohhhh my god. Can i pick him up? He’s so cute!” 

Thing tilts his nub of a wrist and confusingly looked at Wednesday. 

“Go ahead, she wants you to.” Wednesday reassures him. Thing walks on his fingers over to you and climbs up your leg making his was to your outstretched hand. You begin to coo and pet his palm.

“I love him, I want to take him home. He’s like a little bunny rabbit that you don’t need to feed or water.” That comment gets you flicked in the hand by Thing and you look down at him scoldingly. “Heyy. I was calling you cute, don’t make me put you in the car.” You threaten and nuzzle his palm into your hands using it they way you would rub a dogs stomach. 

“He may act like he hates it, but he actually loves the attention. He’s like a dog.” Wednesday explains as she makes him get down on her shoulder so she can take your hands in hers again. 

As you both continue to lay there you start to hear a rustling in the woods behind you. Looking over, Thing has left, already going to investigate. Grabbing Wednesdays hand with worry you pull the both of you to your feet and start packing all of the remaining food, blankets and pillows and rush to the car. 

“We need to go back and get Thing.” You breathlessly tell Wednesday.

“Thing will be fine, its what he’s made for.” Wednesday calmly states. 

“Wednesday, you said he was family. I don’t know if you’ve watched Lilo and Stitch, but no one gets left behind.” You yell, making your way back to where you were seated in the cemetery to attempt to locate Thing with Wednesday trailing behind you. Trying to remain calm you slowly make your way into the opening of the woods and are immediately met with what sounded like loud footsteps. Grabbing Wednesday and turning around to run you both stop in your tracks as you’re assaulted by the light of a bright flashlight being shone directly in your eyes.

Taglist: @athenablack1959 @lovelyy-moonlight @wednesdayiswoe @@deadpool-in-a-snood @lixeira @laurenmusic17 @antilost @donnabenevientosbitch @greygsworld @yukiunoo @dumb-ass2 @futurepiratekingfluffy @cupiocalamity @ladey

[ourvanishingghosts]

Can I req raihan x reader where he proposes? <33 fluff plslslsl

Certainly. Soft Raihan is wonderful thing.

Raihan was nothing short of nervous. He loved you more than trying to beat Leon in a Pokémon battle and probably more than Dragon Pokémon. Dressed up in a suit that is in his gym leader colors he waits for you outside of your front door.

“Inteleon you are in charge. No, Toxtricity you cannot play your music past 10:00pm tonight or else the neighbors will fill a complaint again. Dragapult please keep the pranks to a minimum of 3 to 4. Appletun and Yamper don’t eat all of the food and share with everyone else. Finally, Thievul you are second in command and please help Inteleon to best of your ability. I love you all and I will be back by 11:00pm. Bye.”

You close and lock the door. Hearing a low chuckle behind you and you jump to turn around in your outfit.

“Really? Theivul is second in command?”

“Well to be fair he and Inteleon are like the parents of the group. Anyways, you look handsome.”

He blushes

“And you look absolutely stunning. Ready to go?”

You nod and you two are off to your date. You guys had dinner and decided to go on a walk. You notice that he is super nervous about something.

“Hey, sweetheart?”

“Hm?”

“Are you alright? You seem nervous.”

“I am nervous. I just don’t know how to ask the question that I want to ask.”

You stop and he looks at you.

“Just focus on me and I promise that I won’t react negatively.”

He nods and takes a deep breath.

“Y/N, I have known for four years now and we dated for three of those years. You are the number one greatest people I have ever met. I love you so much. More than battling Leon and possibly more than Dragon Pokémon. Don’t tell my team that though.”

You laugh and nod.

“I promise I won’t tell them.”

“Thank you. I can’t imagine my life without you. I want you to stay by my side forever.”

Saying that he gets down on one knee and pulls out a ring. You let out a gasp.

“Will you marry me, Y/n?”

You nod

“Yes! A thousand times yes!”

He puts the ring on your hand and kisses you. Leon and Hop are your best men with Milo, Bede, Allister, Kabu, Piers, and Gordie are the rest of the best men party, Sonia, Marnie, Nessa, Melony, and Bea are the bridesmaids (Sonia and Marnie are the Maids of Honor), Opal gives you away, and both of your partner Pokemon were the flower girls/boys. Piers was the music man and even Gordie performed with him for a song or two. Melony caught the bouquet of flowers and looked at Kabu.

In the end everything went smoothly and everyone was happy for you two.

[harknessxo]

Chapter IX ✦ White Lies

Paring: Rhea Ripley x Dominik Mysterio, Rhea Ripley x Roman Reigns

Summary: More secrets are coming to light.

Warnings; bit of angst

Word Count: 4.1k

Playlist

Masterlist

A/n: There is a new ship in this fic and I promise it makes sense. I’ll explain if necessary 😭 (I’m also still adding people in the taglist)

The next morning, both Rhea and Dom were dressing up after they took a quick shower, getting ready to head downstairs for breakfast as she was still pondering over what happened last night. As she did, she looked at the time in her watch. It was 9 AM. At 12 PM, she was to meet up with Nia at the cafeteria to confront her, see what Roman told the irresistible force, as well as to warn Nia that she’s not to be messed with.

“Oh crap—“ She heard Dom say as she perked up and turned to him. He was already ready as he was waiting for her while looking at his phone. “I need to meet up with Shawn today to sign the contract.”

“Oh yeah, you’re defending your title tomorrow against Frazer or whatever his name is, right?” Rhea asked as she grabbed her own shoes and put them on while Dom nodded.

“Yeah, It’s tomorrow. I’m gonna go train for a bit too after I go and sign the contract before we head to the stadium.” He told her as he kept his phone inside his pocket. “Plus, Jimmy has been insisting on helping me train, so I can’t say no to him.”

At that, Rhea chuckled and shook her head. The unification of both the Bloodline and the Judgement Day has been both a blessing and a curse. More so as a blessing due to how well they perform together in the ring as well as in general. Jimmy was one of the many people out of the two groups willing to help and “go by the play” as he always said. His bond with her boys has also been something positive as well, compared with JD McDonaugh who was nothing but a distraction to them. There was also Solo; and while he wasn’t that talkative with the others, he still had their backs regardless.

And then, well, there was Roman.

Before the whole “thing” between her and the Tribal Chief was uncovered, many people addressed them as the top leaders of their factions, as well as the ones who will “soon gain absolute control of the agency in the future”- which was an exaggeration of course, but somehow a compliment. Especially after how they both performed in that mix tag match against Bianca and Bobby.

Had it not been because she decided to sleep with him the first time, everything would’ve been absolutely fine between them, and she was sure that they would’ve been good friends and allies. But now…

The two eventually left the room after they got ready as Dom was carrying a small carry-on bag while wearing his gym attire. He stopped by the entrance to face her as he held her hand.

“Well, I gotta run.” He told her. “I’ll text you and the others when I start to head back so we can leave to the stadium together, okay?”

She smiled and pecked his lips. “Alright. I’ll see you in a bit, Dom Dom.” The two bid farewell as Rhea watched him go outside and jog towards Jimmy’s direction, who waved at him from his car as he went with the Samoan male and left.

After she saw him leave, Rhea sighed as she looked at her watch, figuring that she might as well start getting her breakfast now before she could prepare herself for her confrontation with Nia. She went to the cafeteria, wondering if Priest, Finn, or even Raquel were around here somewhere. However, she only spotted Damian and Raquel at the buffet getting their breakfast together while chatting while Finn already sat with Solo as they ate.

However, no signs of Roman.

She decided not to inquire about his whereabouts as she simply took a plate and went to serve her own food. When she reached to grab her entrée, that’s when Priest and Raquel noticed her as she went to their side.

“Hey! We were gonna text you, but we figured you woke up already.”

“Yeah, no worries, I was already up.” Rhea told them. “I had to get up still since Dom was getting ready to train with Jimmy today anyways.”

“Yeah, he has a match against Ricochet today and tomorrow against Nathan.”

“Well, he better win, or else I’ll be laughing the entire time.” Raquel stated as she snorted while Rhea gave her a look.

“Oh no worries, I’ll wipe that smirk off your face the second he wins both and the second I retain this Saturday, Chiquita.” Rhea smirked while Damian couldn’t help but laugh as Raquel rolled her eyes.

“Raq, she cooked you real good, you best be prepared this Saturday.”

“Look—“ Raquel suddenly heard her phone ring as she perked up and took it out from her pocket. When she looked at who was calling, her expression changed, which was noticed by Rhea and Damian.

“You okay, Raquel? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.” Rhea arched an eyebrow. It only took a few seconds until Raquel composed herself as she gave her plate to Damian.

“Sorry, I need to take this- can you both find a seat in the meantime for me please?” She quickly told them as she suddenly rushed out to answer the phone call.

“Well… that was something.” Damian mumbled as they both watched her go to the lobby to answer the call.

“Didn’t even ask you if you finished serving your food…”

“Oh no, no, I’m done. Just took me off guard for a sec though.” The two went to find a seat near Solo and Finn as they sat down, all the while Damian placed Raquel’s plate on the table as well as his own.

“So, I spoke with Roman.”

At Damian’s comment, Rhea paused when she was about to unfold her silverware from the red napkin as she looked up at him. “… excuse me?”

“About the tag titles, obviously.” Damian simply replied as he took out his fork from the napkin. “Said he was gonna speak with Nick and Pearce and that there might be a meeting about it.” He took a bite out of his eggs before he faced her. “He didn’t tell you anything?”

“… About the meeting? No, he didn’t.”

“Well, you seemed a bit taken back when I told you I spoke with him, so what’s up?”

“Nothing.” She quickly responded as she took a sip from her orange juice.

“Okay, then, that means you don’t mind if I asked him if anything happened between you two during those five days at SC.”

“Priest, are you out of your damn mind?” She almost said a bit too loudly as she glared at him. At that, Damian paused and looked at her before she calmed down and rubbed the bridge of her nose.

“Priest, tell me why you’re still on with that when I clearly told you that I’m trying to fix things with Dom?” She asked him.

“I’m only checking, because lately, Reigns has been staring at you.”

“And? People stare, Priest. It’s nothing new.”

“Do you even realize how the hell he looks at you whenever you’re alone or with Dom? Hell, even Solo knows, for crying out loud. Ask him.”

“First of all, Solo is probably seeing things.” Rhea immediately blurted out. “Second of all, I can guarantee you that nothing is going on between me and Roman. We ended all of that when the second Dom found out.”

“Rhea,” Damian began as he looked at her sternly. “If whatever you’re saying is true, then I hope so. Because I’ll be damned if I find out that you’re still seeing him. I’m asking you to be truthful not for yourself, but for Dom.”

Rhea stared at him at the last sentence. For a moment, her expression changed as she looked down at her food, with Damian noticing a small hint of hesitation in her body language as she was pondering before she suddenly spoke. “Actually I–“

“Sorry about that, got an emergency call,” Raquel’s voice interrupted them as she returned to them and sat down.

“Everything okay? You looked spooked for a sec.” Damian asked her as Raquel waved her hand dismissively.

“Yeah- I’m cool. Now come on, let’s eat.” She urged the two. Without a word, the three began to eat their breakfast when Rhea felt her phone vibrate. She looked down at it momentarily, seeing that it was a text from Nia.

‘Remember, 12 PM today. Don’t be late.’

Frowning slightly at the text, Rhea placed her phone back inside her pocket before she continued eating. Damian had noticed but decided not to say a word of it as he continued eating, while Raquel still seemed to look a bit shaken up- possibly because of that call she received.

It was already 11:55 AM as Rhea returned from the gym that was within the hotel on the second floor and went back to the cafeteria after making sure no one was watching nor following her. She decided to go for a small workout before her confrontation with Nia. Thankfully the cafeteria was not too crowded and the kitchen staff was only starting to get lunch ready, which only started at 1 PM and ended at 4 PM. She only sat down after getting herself some water as she waited, looking at her phone as she decided to shoot a text to Nia to let her know that she was already there.

However, before she did, she heard footsteps as she looked up at Nia approaching her table, taking a seat right across her as she had a pair of sunglasses on. Rhea watched her, even through her soul, as the irresistible force placed the glasses on the table before she looked at her with a sarcastic smile.

“Glad you could make it here.”

“Well, if it wasn’t for you blackmailing me, I wouldn’t be here. But here we are now.” Rhea said as she placed she crossed her arms. “Now talk. I don’t have all day.”

“Hm, wouldn’t you want to ask me who sent that video to me though?” Nia asked in a mocking manner.

“Who did it?”

“An old friend of mine. But I paid him a good amount of money so he wouldn’t leak this to the paparazzi. You’re welcome, by the way.” She explained to her while she looked at her nails. “And I specifically asked him to do so because when your names were announced back at that meeting to go to South Carolina and I saw your reactions, I knew something was going on… so, like the caring cousin I am, I had to do my own investigations… especially after what Flair told me.”

“Hm. So she told you as well. Gotcha.” Rhea mumbled underneath her breath, wanting to laugh as she started to look impatient while Nia gave her a look.

“I do wonder though, what impact would this have on you if everyone finds out? What would it do to your… Latino Heat if he finds out? And your career? Hm? What about Roman’s?”

“I’m going to say this to you in the clearest way possible.” Rhea suddenly leaned slightly to her direction as he faced her. “If this is all to just take my championship away… you have another thing coming. I’ve already made it clear that I’m not losing my championship to you or anyone else. And if you even dare to say or utter a word about this at any point… get ready to be sent to rehab. And when that happens, well… tell Liv I said hi.” She concluded with a smirk.

At this, Nia’s expression began to shift as she looked down at her. Her smile disappeared and was replaced with a frown before she decided to speak her mind. “Alright then… you don’t want this to be exposed. I see where you’re going with this. But I do have a few questions for you, because if I remember correctly, this is my blood who we are talking about.”

“Yeah, yeah, cut to the chase, Nia. I fucked your cousin, and he fucked me, it was all mistake back then that won’t happen again, so what?”

“If you’re doing this to gain some sort of power, privilege, or high ground, let me tell you that you look miserable doing so. Especially when you have a boyfriend.” Nia immediately told her as Rhea scoffed.

“Power? Privilege? High ground? Nia, you make me laugh.” Rhea couldn’t help but chuckle this time. “I don’t need anyone to give me power on a silver platter. I make that power, I gain that power on my own, and whether you like it or not, I will always have it.” She then looked at her straight in the eye as she spoke. “If you dare to utter a word or even breathe about any of this… I will make sure that you don’t even get to be able to fly to Saudi this Saturday. Am I clear?”

“… it’s your downfall anyways, girl. Not mine.” Was the only thing that Now simply said as she stood up. “But good luck keeping that secret under wraps. You know how anyone in this company can find out shit easily.”

“Oh don’t worry.” Rhea simply replied, almost and nearly sounding confident. “I know who I place my trust in well.” With that, Rhea also stood as she walked past Nia and left the cafeteria.

Two hours had passed since their encounter as Rhea decided to take a small jog outside, waiting until it was time for them to leave the hotel to head to Monday Night Raw. She had texted Dom as he was now with Jimmy and Solo buying something after they finished their training, letting him know to call her once he was finished. In the meantime, she decided to take a small jog to warm up.

When she decided to finish, she jogged back to the hotel, deciding to take a quick shower and grab something to eat afterwards as she went inside. However, when she did, her eyes shifted to the lobby as she saw none other than Roman speaking to Nia.

At the sight, Rhea almost paused, wondering what the hell they were talking about this time. For one, she was annoyed, assuming that Nia was no longer going to be messing around with her anymore, but at the same time, they were probably talking about some family matter, seeing as though they are related.

Nevertheless, she didn’t care much what they were talking about. So, she decided to act like she didn’t see them as she pulled up her phone, deciding to scroll through her socials as she was walking up to the elevator. Everything was fine, everything was under control.

At least that’s what she would think if only Roman suddenly didn’t stand up, interrupting his conversation with his cousin, before he went to follow Rhea.

Rhea pressed the button of the elevator as it opened, allowing her to walk in before she suddenly looked up and to her surprise, she realized Roman was following her all this time as he too went inside.

“Oh my fucking- what are you doing here? No one can see us together, you idiot!”

“What? I’m just using the elevator like any other person,” Roman said while the doors closed.

“Whatever,” Rhea crossed her arms and sighed in annoyance.

“So, how was your make up sex with Dom?” Roman asked with jealousy in his tone.

“How do you know that?” Rhea frowned while turning to face him.

“That’s besides the point. Was he half as good as me?” he asked while backing her up against the wall.

“Hah, please-” In that moment the elevator doors opened to reveal Damian. When Damian looked up and saw the scene displayed in front of him he scoffed.

“I can’t believe this,” he shook his head and began to walk away.

“Damian, wait! It’s not what it looks like!” Rhea chased after him, Roman close behind.

“No? Then what was that, huh?” Damian turned to look at her.

“I-”

“Dominik is putting his trust in you and this is how you repay him? He deserves to know the truth.”

“You wouldn’t dare!”

“Oh yes I would,” and with that he began to walk away. Rhea just stood there, watching him walk away while running her hands through her hair.

“I’m sorry, this is all my fault,” Roman said from behind her. Rhea turned towards him and shook her head.

“I’ll figure something out, right now we need to focus on Nia and make sure she keeps her mouth shut.”

“Yeah about that, she was the one who told me about you and Dom.”

“She WHAT?!”

“She has a recording of it-”

“Oh she’s gonna get it!” Rhea was about to walk away until Roman stopped her.

“Rhea, wait until Crown Jewel. I managed to keep her quiet for now.”

“Fine.” She then huffed as she looked at the time. “I need to get ready. Dom’s gonna text me any minute and we need to leave for Monday Night Raw.”

“My cousins and I are gonna be there tonight as well. We’re gonna go ahead and talk to Pearce about the tag titles.”

“Better get going then.” Was the only thing Rhea said before she began to walk away and rush to her room. Feeling both stressed and pissed. Not only did she still have to deal with Nia, but now she needed to find a way to talk to Priest and convince him not to speak to Dom.

But the question was, how?

She finished up her hair as well as making the final touches on her own makeup before she grabbed her carry-on bag, as well as her own belt, before making sure that she looked okay as she left her room. It was already 4 PM, and the boys were supposed to meet up with her downstairs at the lobby by 4:30 PM just in time for them to leave. The plan was due to the Bloodline arriving at Monday Night Raw to speak to Pearce, they would still have to wait for them so they could all leave and follow each other in their rental cars.

So far, she texted Finn and Dom. Thankfully both of them had answered, with Finn saying that he was finishing getting ready while Dom said that he was already waiting downstairs. Today, he had a non-title match against Ricochet, so they needed to all make sure that Dom was ready to win this match. Thankfully, Jimmy has been training with him more often, which meant that him winning this match would be a breeze.

However, she left multiple texts to Damian, and so far, no responses from him.

Sighing, she decided to leave her stuff with Finn as soon as she arrived at the lobby.

“Finn, have you seen Priest?” She asked the male Irish as she went up to him while he perked up and looked from his phone.

“I’ve been textin’ him, but he hasn’t replied.” He told her while she placed her bag on the couch. “You think he took a nap and overslept or…?”

“Maybe, I’ll check on him. Can you watch my stuff for me please?”

“Sure thing, sis.” 1

“Thanks.” Rhea then went back, quick on her feet as she went to the elevator once again, making her way to the third floor where Damian’s room was. As she waited for the elevator to stop, she texted him once again.

‘Come on Priest, don’t do anything stupid.’

The elevator doors opened and immediately, Rhea rushed out as she chose to call Damian instead as she approached his room, which was almost at the very end of the east side of the hallway.

As she kept walking, his phone only rang five times, before it went straight to voicemail. At that, Rhea grew annoyed as she hung up before she finally arrived at his room and knocked on his door loudly.

“Priest, I don’t have time for you being pissed and disappointed at me, we either settle this whole thing right now before we leave or I’m dragging you out.” She immediately said, almost tapping her foot impatiently.

She didn’t hear a response for a few seconds, until she began to hear some shuffling. “Priest, I know you’re in there—“

“Wait a sec— I’m getting dressed!” She heard him say. Huffing, she crossed her arms.

“Well hurry up!”

“Fine! Fine, hold on wait—“ A few seconds later he finally opened the door and let her in.

“Damian, we need to talk. I can’t have you tell-” she stopped mid sentence when she saw a pair of panties laying on the bed.

“Did- did you have someone here?” Rhea asked while turning to look at him.

“Pft no…” then he looked in the direction of the bed and sighed in defeat. “Fuck”

“Have you been seeing someone- actually don’t answer that, is the person still in here?” Before Damian could answer, Rhea went to check the bathroom but there was no one but when she turned that’s when she realized where Damian was standing.

In front of the closet doors.

“Damian, move out the way,”

“No.”

“Damian-”

“Fine!” Damian hesitantly opened the closet doors to reveal a woman in a bathrobe. That woman was none other than Iyo Sky.

“Iyo!?”

“Uh hi,” Iyo waved with a nervous smile. Rhea just looked back and forth between them in shock.

“...I can’t believe this. You are such a hypocrite!” Rhea yelled.

“I think I should leave,” said Iyo looking at who was rubbing the bridge of his nose Damian.

“I think so too. I’ll text you later, corazón.” With that he leaned down, gave her a kiss, and walked her to the door. Once she was gone, he closed the door and sighed.

“Rhea let me explain-”

“Explain what? That you had a one night stand with Iyo?”

“About that…”

“This wasn’t the first time was it?”

“...No,” Rhea scoffed and ran her hand through her hair, “Look, I was planning to tell at some point-”

“Yeah but you didn’t and you know what the worst part is? You were gonna snitch on me to Dom for the same thing you are doing right now. How would you feel if I told Bayley? I could do that right now,” Rhea said, pulling out her phone to call her.

“You wouldn’t,” Damian said, not believing her. Rhea raised her eyebrow and pressed the call button. Damian snatched the phone from her hand and hung up the phone.

“Okay, okay fine. You don’t tell Bayley about me and Iyo and I won’t tell Dom about you and Roman, deal?”

“Deal. Now let’s go, we have places to be.”

They were only two minutes away from arriving at the show as all the superstars who were scheduled to attend Monday Night Raw decided to ride the van this time instead of using their rental cars. They all sat around and chatted, with the exception of Raquel who was relentlessly typing on her phone as she was messaging a certain someone.

‘I know you’re medically cleared, but you have to wait until after Crown Jewel. Right now it’s not a good time for you to make your return all because you want to confront her. Stay out and I’ll tell you when you can come back.’ She then sent the message, all the while she looked up momentarily from her phone to see that no one noticed the look of stress in her face (thankfully). After a minute, she suddenly saw her message being replied as she looked at her phone once again.

‘One, you’re supposed to be my friend and on my side on this, Raquel. Two, who are you to tell me what to do? I’m coming to Saudi without anyone knowing whether you like it or not.’

At the response, Raquel could only lower down her phone on her lap as she rubbed the bridge of her nose.

This was fucked.

Everything’s was fucked.

And not only that; Rhea was going to be screwed this Saturday. Whether she retains her championship or not.

She looked into Rhea’s direction as she sat with her boys a few rows away from her. She looked fine for now, but when Saturday arrived… there was going to be no way for her to stop what was bound to happen that day.

Little did she know that more was going to happen to Rhea that same day.

Taglist:

@sassginaswanmills @riptideripley @tonuitekan

[imaginesforeveryone]

The Leader of the Peaky Blinders (Part 3)

Pairing: Thomas Shelby x Y/N Summary: You are from one of the most notorious families in Chicago and you were about to make deals with the most notorious families of England. Warnings: language, flirting, drinking, 

It was he next day, your birthday, that you really didn’t want to celebrate, but you father insisted. Getting up in the morning, somewhat feeling all of 40 years old, but a little stretching, and a little work out wouldn’t hurt. Getting up you wore just a pair of short and got down on the ground to do push up. Stretching out a bit after the first work out, then doing sit ups. Finishing up you morning routine, you sat with your legs crossed, and began your mediation process. But, that didn’t last long before there was a knock at your door. Sighing at the interruption you stood and threw you robe loosely around your naked top. 

“I told you don’t interrupted before 9 AM. You know..” You said before you opened the door and saw it was Mr. Shelby. 

“Oh. Hello Mr. Shelby. What can I do for you?” You asked as the breeze of the door opening swayed your robe just a bit to show your chest to him. 

“I came to pick you up. I want to show you something.” He spoke after clearing his throat. 

“Well it can wait till after I’m done with my morning.” You spoke turning and dropping your robe on the floor and sitting back where you once were before answering the door. Your back to the door, and you face the window as the sun shined brightly through the big window above your couch. Shutting your eyes, you heard the door shut and slow foot steps coming towards you but passing you up. Thomas sitting on the couch in front of you now. 

“So what is this?” He asked breaking the comforting silence in the room. 

“Meditation, Thomas.” You said with annoyance in your voice. 

“Like the shit people do too ‘relax’” He said. 

“Yes, Thomas. I do it to tune out the ANNOYING sounds around me. Makes me less angry.” You told him putting an emphasis on annoying directing it at him because he didn’t stop talking. 

“Well sure doesn’t seem like it relax’s you love.” He said with a scoff.

“Alright, well I guess my me time is over huh?” You asked opening your eyes, and standing. Thomas stared at you from the couch. 

“And Thomas, I could be more angry than I already am, but because of my morning meditation, and the rest of what I do help me keep it somewhat under control. But seeing that I didn’t get my full hour of meditation. Today may not be a good day.” You spoke to him as you walked into your room. 

“I’m going to shower then we can leave. You’re more than welcome to join if you’d like to make it up to me for interrupting my morning.” You yelled as you pulled your shorts down and walked into your large bathroom and turning the shower on and stepping in. 

“Miss. Capone.” You herd Thomas’ voice say just out side the shower. You opened the curtain to reveal, your wet flattened hair, and water running down your naked body. 

“Yes, Mr. Shelby?” You said with an innocent tone in your voice. 

“I’m here on business not pleasure. I know what happened last night seemed like I’m here on pleasure.” Thomas said before you grabbed Thomas by the collar of his dress shirt, and pulled just his head to you, soaking it under the shower head. A string of wet hair falling in front of his eyes. 

“Listen Mr. Shelby. I know you are here on business. But.” You said with a pop of the B for your lips. 

“You can’t do business without a little bit of pleasure.” You said before planting a kiss on his lips and pushing him out and closing the curtain.

“I’ll be out in a bit. Go make yourself comfortable.” You said smiling at yourself knowing he’s pushing the the wet hair out of his face and sighed to himself. Finishing up your shower you grabbed a towel and ringed out your hair before getting out. Going to your closet and grabbing a pair of black stripped fitted suit pants, a black fitted button up, along with a black stripped tight jacket. Grabbing the straps of your heels shoes and your Homburg hat and walking out of the room. Thomas sat on the couch, you went and sat next to him. 

“So where are we going?” You asked him. 

“To your docks where I found the cocaine that was coming in. There’s some things I need you to see.” He said, taking a cigarette between his lips and you leaned over to strap your heels on. 

“Fun.” You said with sarcasm. You stood from your seat adjusting your jacket on you and walked to the coat closet next to the front door. You threw on your fur coat, and set you hat on your head. 

“Shall we?” You asked opening the door and motioning Thomas out of the room. He stood putting his cigarette out. Walking to you and to the door that you held open. 

“Happy Birthday by the way Miss. Capone.” He spoke close to you as he walked out. You just scoffed at him as he walked out. Shutting the door and locking it behind you. You two got into the elevator and you hit the lobby button. 

“Don’t like your birthday?” He asked as there was silence for a bit. 

“I’m 40. A gangster, in Chicago. I’m loved and hated. Have done nothing but this my entire life. 40 years, and here I am.” You said with anger in your voice. 

“Well seems like you have a good life other wise. Your family is all still here. So, I guess that’s a plus.” Thomas said replying to your reasoning for hating your birthday. You scoffed with a slight giggle at his sentence. 

“Funny, Mr. Shelby. My family is fucked up. But, then again we all are aren’t we?” You asked as you walked out of the elevator that opened. You walked out of the building, Thomas followed close behind. The driver opening the door for you as you climbed in. Thomas getting in beside you quickly. The driver getting in the drivers seat and began on the way to your families dock not too far away. A car ride of silence, you finally arrived to the docks. You got out of the car and holding your jacket close to you with it being cold at the water front. 

“Miss. Capone. Mr. Shelby.” a man said left and right of you. You walked through the docks together. 

“So here we are. This is where we found the cocaine.” He said showing you the pallets of what looked like car parts.

“Okay. Thanks?” You asked confused as to why he brought you all the way here just to show you this. 

“You ask why I show you just where we found it aye?” He asked holding his hands in front of him. 

“Yeah.” You asked with hesitation. 

“Well, we picked through further into the shipment, and found more than just cocaine. We found this.” He said as Arthur came from the side of him and handed you a brown bag, similar to the other one he showed you a day before with the white substance in it. You grabbed your knife from your jacket pocket and cut the bag, but it was not white. It was brown. Taking a piece of the hard crystal into your mouth and chomping down on it. 

“Pure opium.” Arthur spoke. 

“So Jack, now has cocaine, and pure opium running through your city. One of the two killing thousands a day.” Arthur continued his words. 

“Alright, so we really have to gent move on figuring this shit out. Huh?” You asked giving the bag back to Arthur. 

“But, we will not talk about this today. My father doesn’t want business talked about on my birthday. It makes him angry.” You said as you pulled your coat closer to you again. 

“We should get going. Don’t want to be late.” You told the two men in front of you as you looked at your watch that read 4:30PM. Walking to the car and getting in quick to avoid the cold as much as you could. Thomas and Arthur getting into the car and your driver starting the car and driving to your fathers. 

“Here. Thought I might give this to you before we get to your fathers.” Thomas said as he picked up a box from the ground from in front of him. It had some weight to it but not as heavy as a gun would be. You opened it and saw a beautiful knife sat in it. You picked it up in your hand and saw that it had 

Happy 40th, you have succeeded 

engraved in the mahogany handle. You flicked it open, it was a gold blade, that had your name also engraved into the blade. 

“My gift to you for your birthday, also made from the gold that I will be delivering for you and your family.” Thomas said as he looked out the window as you drove through the city you loved. You weren’t expecting such a sentimental gift from the big, bad Thomas Shelby. 

“Thank you Mr. Shelby.” You said as you set it back in the box and set it on the ground. Pulling up to your fathers mansion about 20 minutes later, you got out and shut the door behind you, and waiting for Arthur and Thomas. As they walked around the car and to you, you began walking to the door. 

“No speaking of business, only if he asks you can. Take shots of whiskey with him when he asks. Just listen to him. ” You said stopping and putting your hand on both of their chests to stop them also. 

“All good. We got it love.” Arthur spoke and walked passed you. Looking up at Tommy who gave you a reassuring look that nothing would happen. You turned to walk inside, met with one of the maids who took your jacket, and then took Tommy’s. 

“So why is it that the daughter of the most famous mob boss’ is in a building in downtown Chicago, and he is in a mansion 30 minutes out of the city?” Tommy whispered to you as you walked through the house. 

“I didn’t want to be away from the loudness, or the water that the city had. Also that’s where a lot of our business is held and I need to be close to it.” You told him. Walking through the doors of the sitting room, where it was very loud with your uncles, cousins, father, mother, and some close family friends were drinking, some already drunk. 

“THERE SHE IS!!!” Frank said coming over and engulfing you into a hug. 

“Hi Frank.” You said with annoyance. 

“I remember when you were just born. Like it was yesterday.” Frank said setting you down and throwing an arm over you. You began to walk where you father sat along side your mother. Thomas still followed behind you, along with Arthur close by. Stopping in front of your father. 

“Happy birthday baby girl.” He said standing and giving you a kiss on either cheek. You smiled at him and sat with your mother as he looked at Thomas and taking his hand in his. 

“Tonight is a party to celebrate her. So, for tonight, into the morning, we are of a truce. So have fun, drink all the whiskey you want, and maybe even dance as much as you want.” Your father said to Thomas. You smiled to yourself at his words, knowing it was going to be a goodnight. 

“Well with that, come on Arthur let’s get some whiskey and let’s dance.” You said standing and pushing passed Thomas grabbing Arthurs hand. Arthur looked back at Thomas to see if it was okay, and Thomas giving him a nodded of acceptance. 

“So Mr. Shelby. Irish or scotch?” You asked walking to the bar. 

“Anything that’ll get me drunk love.” He said in his raspy voice. You poured two Irish whiskey for you two and gave him one. 

“Cheers!” You said as you clinked glasses with him. 

About 3 hours passed. You all ate dinner and were back to the party. You had been dancing, and swaying to the music in the party room now, gone off your ass on whiskey and gin. You danced with just about everyone, including Arthur Shelby, who was just about blacked out. You looked over at Thomas through your crazy messed up hair, and your tank top that you wore underneath your dress shirt, and suit jacket before, the string hung off your shoulder from all the crazy movements you were making. Thomas sat with your father in the corner by the fireplace talking to him. You pushed Arthur to go dance with your cousin who was beside you. You wobbled your way over to Thomas. 

“Come on Mr. Shelby. Let’s dance.” You said stumbling and landing your hands on his knees to hold you up from falling. He looked over at you father who nodded at him. 

“I don’t dance, love.” He spoke up. 

“Y/N! Y/N FUCKING CAPONE!!” You heard a voice ring through the house. Almost certain you knew who it was. You rolled your eyes and stood up from Thomas, grabbing your knife out of your pocket as you passed your jacket sitting on the back of a chair. Hearing footsteps close behind you, following. Frank, Arthur, and Thomas it was. Getting to the front door you saw a man who could barely stand in the doorway. 

“Y/N. I still love you.” He slurred out. 

“Max why the fuck are you here?” You asked stepping to him. 

“It’s your birthday baby. You know what happens on your birthday every year.” He said walking closer to you. 

“I fuck the living shit out of you. Remember?” He said grabbing you to pull you in to him. Quickly grabbing your knife and holding it to his neck making him step back and out his hands up. You heard footsteps behind you. 

“No. I got this, back up.” You spoke to whoever it was behind you coming to help you. 

“Max, if you don’t leave right now, I will, and don’t think I wont, slit your fucking throat on this floor and if you don’t leave. Don’t think about coming to me again and I will kill you when I see you again.” You spoke close to Max’s face. 

“Got it.” He spoke turning around and running out of the door. You fixed your hair and turned around. All the men stood looking. 

“Alright back to the party!” You said flicking your knife back. Everyone rushing to go back to the party except Thomas. Walking to Thomas and stopping just a foot in front of him. 

“So that dance? Mr. I DON’T DANCE.” You said to him. 

“Like I said, I don’t dance. I haven’t danced since my wedding, and it was a slow dance.” He said looking down at you. 

“Well we have a ballroom here.” You said as you took his hand and pulled him down the hall and to the door on the left. Opening it to the dark, empty room, only light shining was through the window and it was the moon glistening off the crystal chandeliers that hung. 

“Well. Does this work for your slow dance?” You asked stood in the middle of the room holding you hands up. Thomas grinned looking at you. He walked to you taking his hand to yours and settled the other on your waist. 

“There is no music Mr. Shelby.” You spoke before settling your hand on his shoulder. 

“We make our own love.” He spoke. You settle your head against his chest. 

“So who was that? If you don’t mind me asking.” Thomas asking about Max. 

“My ex-husband.” You spoke willingly. After a few moments of silence adjust moving slowly with each others bodies, you pulled away. 

“We should probably get back.” You said stepping away from Thomas. 

“You’re probably right.” He said as he motioned his hand to let you do first out the door. You walked out of the door he held open for you. Stopping to plant a kiss on Thomas’ lips before walking out. 

“Remember, Mr. Shelby. Business can’t run without pleasure.” You said with a smile and holding his face and then walking out.

[hotdilfs11]

Mafia Boss-Thomas Shelby x Reader pt5

Rest of the parts

✩summary: The Shelby knew this girl when she was very little. However, when her mother passed away (at 16) everything changed and everyone drifted away from each other. Now after seven years Veronica is a mafia boss in her fathers business. Her father sent her to Birmingham on business, will this play off well?

✩pairings:girl named Veronica(POC) x Thomas Shelby

✩warnings: Alcohol, lots of cursing

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

I was sitting in a cafe, drinking coffee, and having a meeting with the known leader of the Peaky Blinders, Thomas Shelby. The cafe had a dark, cozy vibe to it. It had dark brown chairs and off-white floors. The cafe had a little green color to it while keeping that cozy and mysterious feeling. I was sitting at one of the tables by the window while I observed the people going by outside as the cars and buses passed us at a speedy pace. I had my legs crossed as the dark-colored, bitter liquid slid down my throat in a medium-sized white mug. I was wearing an all-black fitted suit with black basic heels. After I was done sipping my bittersweet coffee, I placed it down on a glossy wooden table, looking up at Tommy in a dominant way. "Did you do what I asked of you, Mr. Shelby?" I say as I fasten my hands together, patiently waiting for his answer. He looked at me with a cold, somber expression, looking into my deep hazel eyes for a minute. Butterflies started to flutter in my stomach as I felt his piercing blue eyes run up and down my body.

"Yes, I did, Miss Hawthorn," he said while making eye contact with me.

I broke the unbearable eye contact as I took a sip of my coffee; however, I still felt his desirable and desperate eyes waiting for me. I looked up at him. "Well, okay, Mr. Shelby, you're free to leave," I said in a nonchalant tone.

"No," he demanded as he started to lean on the table, getting closer to me. "I still want my answer, love."

I look at him in disbelief, and I let out a chuckle. "Now, Thomas, you know what I said," I say with a smirk on my face. I looked at him while he started nodding his head, breaking eye contact with me. He rubbed his face in frustration while staring out the window. We were in silence for a second, and all I hear is people chattering and laughing inside the cafe.

Tommy looked at me after a second of silence. "Okay, Miss Hawthorn, see you at the party." He said this while standing up as he was about to leave, and I blurted out, "Are you mad?"

He shook his head and said "no" in a cheery tone as he walked away from me and out the door.

2 DAYS LATER

It was the night of Tommy's ball, and I just finished getting ready for tonight. I was wearing a long, elegant, promiscuous burgundy dress that hugged tight around all of my curves. It was a v-neck, cross-back satin dress. I had black high-heeled pumps on, and I put on one of my diamond rings, which my father bought for me, as I grabbed my black clutch.

I walked downstairs, got into my car, and went off to Tommy's party. I was nervous and frustrated, but I was also excited in a way. I kind of wanted to see Tommy, even though I promised myself I shouldn’t date him, but I couldn’t contain my feelings in this forbidden safe anymore. I wanted Tommy so badly, and I don’t know how to control myself around him, but then I start to realize how this can affect everything that's going on in my life. I try to push these thoughts out of my mind, but I can’t.

I was at Thomas Shelby's house. The door swung open, revealing Dante in a suit and tie, reaching out his hand. I took his hand and stepped out of the car in a sharp motion. I looked at Dante and told him thank you as I started walking towards the door with him by my side. I walked proudly and confidently with my head held high, and each step I took inside this house made a thunderous roar that echoed down the hallways.

I got to the ballroom, and it was classy, lively, and gloriously gorgeous. I walked in and got offered a glass of champagne from a waiter in a tux. I nodded my head at him and moved on, trying to find Tommy. I started scanning the room and walking around, and then I saw him. I got excited and tense; I felt like a teenage girl all over again, with butterflies in their stomachs and forever blushing. As I started inching towards him, I noticed that he was with someone in a blush pink dress and a white fluffy shaw over her shoulders. She had blond hair and a petite build. I looked down at where Tommy's hand was, and it was on the small of her back. They were laughing, talking, and looking into each other's eyes like some cringy high school couple. My eyebrows furrowed as I started to regret my choice. But right now I was envious of how he looked at her; I was insecure about how I dressed, but then I felt possessive over Tommy. I wanted him more than ever now, and I craved him deeply.

I stood there frozen, unable to move, until I saw the open bar and marched right up to it, not feeling as confident or as proud, but I had to keep a good look. I started to sit down on the slightly comfortable chair while asking the bartender for a bourbon. I basically started drinking my jealousy away and all the problems I had leading up to now. I didn’t want to think or feel; I just wanted to not care about anything or anyone.

As I sat there at the bar, I felt a familiar presence creep up on me. I turn around to see that John has a serious look on his face. "Veronica, what the bloody hell are you doing?" he said in an aggressive tone. I looked at him in a cold, stubborn way, not caring about anyone.

"Oh, look at it, John!" I said it in a happy tone as a big, drunken smile appeared on my face.

"Veronica, are you fucking drunk?" he said as he squinted his eyes in confusion.

I remained in eye contact with him and still had a big smile on my face. "No, John, I’m not fucking drunk. I’m okay, your okay, and Tommy is doing more than okay," I pointed to Tommy, and then I stopped making eye contact with John as I looked into my sad, bitter drink. I tried to take a sip of the fiery liquid until John snatched it right out of my hand.

"What the fuck, John?" I say this in fury, but he didn’t care how I was feeling; he just didn’t want to see me like this.

"Is this because of Grace and Tommy?" He pointed at them in anger.

I kept my head up, unable to look John in the eye. I was scared to show emotion around him or anyone at all. I felt weak.

"Veronica, look at me," John said as he inched closer to my face.

I slurred my words. "What do you want me to say, John? I feel fucking horrible." I paused for a moment, trying to collect my useless thoughts together. "And then Tommy wants to bring this

fucking blond bitch as his fucking date, so now what, John, what the fuck do you want me to do about it, huh?" I stared at him as I felt heartless.

"You look amazing, V, honest."

I brushed off his compliment as I looked down at the table again until I felt John's strong yet soft hands pick up my chin to look at him. "Let's make him jealous, shall we?".

I smirked as I toyed with the idea for a second. I can already see Tommy getting so jealous and angry that it makes me excited. I told John, Okay, as I started to stand up from the stool. I was kind of tipsy, but not tipsy enough for anyone to notice. I stood up beside John as he wrapped his rough hand around my waist, pulling me close to him. I was surprised that John was so gentle with his hands. I sink into him as we start walking in the crowd towards Tommy. Me and John had our heads held high and were proudly walking through the ballroom until we reached Tommy. He was talking to someone with his date strapped to his side.

Tommy's eyes widened when he saw me say, "Veronica!"

He sounded so excited to see me. He introduced me and John to one of his old friends. I greeted them with a hello, and John shook his hand roughly.

"Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you, Ronnie, this is my date, Grace," he said as he pointed to her. I painted a fake smile on my face. "Hello, Grace," I said kindly.

As I was saying hi to Grace, John started to move his hand up and down my back, sending a chill through my body.

"Is this your date, Veronica?" Grace said it innocently.

"Yes, it is. This is Tommy's brother, John Shelby," I say with a smirk on my face.

John generously greeted her as he grew more touchy with me, trying to get Tommy a little bit more angrier than he already is.

He saw John's hand slide up and down my back in a playful motion. Tommy grew furious, and you can tell it on his face. John pulled me closer to him as I took in his earthy and sweet, comforting scent while feeling his warm body up against mine while I started to sink into John's body. Tommy's body starts to tense up while he's witnessing what's happening right in front of his eyes. I looked up and down Tommy's body, pleased by his reaction towards me and John.

"Oh wow, I didn’t know you guys were dating; you should’ve told me Thomas”, Grace announced with her cheeky and irritating voice. She looked at Tommy and playfully hit him on the chest. Tommy shrugged his shoulders, not even catching a glimpse of Grace; however, he remained his eyes on me and John. Being witty, I looked up at John. He looked down at me in a flirtatious way as he started to gently wrap his arm around my neck, trying to piss Tommy off a

lot more. As he was wrapping his arm around me, I grabbed his hand and started to lock fingers with him.

In a cold manner, Thomas said, "Ronnie, can I speak to you for a moment, please?"

"Of course, Mr. Shelby." I smiled. John let go of me, and I looked at him and said, "I’ll be back, love."

He nodded and gave me a half-grin as I started to walk with Tommy. He was walking on the side of me as we both walked out of the ballroom and away from all of these people. After we were out of people's sight, Tommy grabbed my arm and started to walk me to his office. I could see a tint of red forming on his cheeks and his ears from anger. I was thrilled that I got a reaction from him; however, I was worried about how he was going to react to me. I gasped, trying to slip out of his hold, but his grip got tighter and tighter as he pulled me into his office. "What the fuck, Tommy?" I quietly yelled, knowing there were a lot of people outside that could hear me. Tommy started walking towards his desk while I was still standing by the door. He turned around, facing me, and stopped in his steps. "What are you playing at?" he asked while making heavy eye contact with me.

"I don’t know what you're talking about." I said it with an innocent tone.

"Why were you all over John?"

"Maybe because you brought a girl as your fucking date even though you were the one who invited me here," I said, folding my arms tightly.

"But that's my fucking brother Veronica, are you serious?" The room echoed from his voice as he started to yell louder.

I scoffed in frustration, then I looked away from Tommy in anger. We stood in silence as I gathered my thoughts.

I uncrossed my arms and looked back at Tommy, but he turned away from me, unable to look at me.

"Why does it matter anyway?"Your brother has his own life, and so do I just worry about your own and Grace, okay?" I urged as I stepped towards him.

He looked at me in disbelief, unable to even process what just came out of my mouth.

"BECAUSE I WANT YOU, VERONICA, I’VE BEEN SAYING THIS!" he shouted.

My eyes widened. "IF YOU WANT ME TOMMY, THEN FUCKING SAY IT AND STOP BLOODY TOYING WITH ME." I exclaimed in uncertainty. I noticed that we were too loud, so I tried to calm myself down by taking a deep breath. I was tired of emotion, and I couldn’t handle any of this.

Tommy sighed in frustration. "Your the one whos fucking toying with me, Ronnie... You are the one who said it was bad for business." Tommy lowered his voice, but you can still hear the anger and bass in his voice.

"Ronnie, I love you. Not Grace, not anyone, only you," he said as his voice softened up. He stared, inching closer and closer to him.

I scoffed harshly. "No, you don't." I stepped back from him and crossed my arms. "This is exactly why... fuck”, I muttered under my breath.

"Why what, Veronica?" he asks as he gets closer to me, urging to know my next words. I went silent, not wanting to answer him, but he just kept getting closer to me, knowing that was my weakness. I felt his body heat jump off of him when he got closer to me. I can smell his comforting scent as he starts to cup my face gently. I looked into his eyes, and he seemed sincere and desperate.

I tried not to sink into his touch or get lost in his eyes. "No, Tommy! I fucking can't." I pushed away from him harshly. He tumbled back a little, but he still wanted me more and more.

A single tear fell down my cheek, but I whipped it away quickly as I tried to leave. When I grabbed the door knob, Tommy's rough hand grabbed me, but I yanked it away quickly.

"Tommy… I can’t keep waiting for you anymore. I have things to do, and I cannot wait for you to show these feelings. I just can’t." I said it in a cold yet demanding voice as I walked out the door.

[ghostydrawsstuff]

[Opens with an Imperial wagon driving four prisoners down a snowy mountain pass. All are seated and bound; the one dressed in finery is gagged.]

Ralof: Hey, you. You’re finally awake. You were trying to cross the border, right? Walked right into that Imperial ambush, same as us, and that thief over there.

Lokir: Damn you Stormcloaks. Skyrim was fine until you came along. Empire was nice and lazy. If they hadn’t been looking for you, I could’ve stolen that horse and been half way to Hammerfell. You there. You and me — we should be here. It’s these Stormcloaks the Empire wants.

Ralof: We’re all brothers and sisters in binds now, thief.

Imperial Soldier: Shut up back there!

[Lokir looks at the gagged man.]

Lokir: And what’s wrong with him?

Ralof: Watch your tongue! You’re speaking to Ulfric Stormcloak, the true High King.

Lokir: Ulfric? The Jarl of Windhelm? You’re the leader of the rebellion. But if they captured you… Oh gods, where are they taking us?

Ralof: I don’t know where we’re going, but Sovngarde awaits.

Lokir: No, this can’t be happening. This isn’t happening.

Ralof: Hey, what village are you from, horse thief?

Lokir: Why do you care?

Ralof: A Nord’s last thoughts should be of home.

Lokir: Rorikstead. I’m…I’m from Rorikstead.

[They approach the village of Helgen. A soldier calls out to the lead wagon.]

Imperial Soldier: General Tullius, sir! The headsman is waiting!

General Tullius: Good. Let’s get this over with.

Lokir: Shor, Mara, Dibella, Kynareth, Akatosh. Divines, please help me.

Ralof: Look at him, General Tullius the Military Governor. And it looks like the Thalmor are with him. Damn elves. I bet they had something to do with this. This is Helgen. I used to be sweet on a girl from here. Wonder if Vilod is still making that mead with juniper berries mixed in. Funny…when I was a boy, Imperial walls and towers used to make me feel so safe.

[A man and son watch the prisoners pull into town.]

Haming: Who are they, daddy? Where are they going?

Torolf: You need to go inside, little cub.

Haming: Why? I want to watch the soldiers.

Torolf: Inside the house. Now.

[The wagon stops near the chopping block.]

Imperial Soldier: Whoa.

Lokir: Why are they stopping?

Ralof: Why do you think? End of the line. Let's go. Shouldn't keep the gods waiting for us.

Lokir: No! Wait! We're not rebels!

Ralof: Face your death with some courage, thief.

[Under the Imperials' watchful eye, the prisoners start jumping out.]

Lokir: You've got to tell them! We weren't with you! This is a mistake!

Imperial Captain: Step toward the block when we call your name. One at a time!

Ralof: Empire loves their damn lists.

Hadvar: Ulfric Stormcloak. Jarl of Windhelm.

Ralof: It has been an honor, Jarl Ulfric!

Hadvar: Ralof of Riverwood. Lokir of Rorikstead.

Lokir: No, I'm not a rebel! You can't do this!

[He makes a break for it.]

Imperial Captain: Halt!

Lokir: You're not going to kill me!

Imperial Captain: Archers!

[Lokir is downed with one bowshot.]

Imperial Captain: Anyone else feel like running?

Hadvar: Wait, you there. Step forward. Who are you?

[Zooms in on your face. You look fabulous today, slay.]

Hadvar: You from Daggerfall, Breton? Fleeing from some court intrigue? Captain, what should we do? They're not on the list.

Imperial Captain: Forget the list. They go to the block.

Hadvar: By your orders, captain. I'm sorry. We'll make sure your remains are returned to Cyrodiil. Follow the Captain, prisoner.

[The player goes to stand with the other waiting prisoners by the block.]

Tullius: Ulfric Stormcloak. Some here in Helgen call you a hero, but a hero doesn't use a power like the Voice to murder his king and usurp his throne.

Jarl Ulfric Stormcloak: (grunting protest)

Tullius: You started this war, plunged Skyrim into chaos and now the Empire is going to put you down, and restore the peace.

[A distant noise rings down the mountainside.]

Hadvar: What was that?

Tullius: It's nothing. Carry on.

Imperial Captain: Yes, General Tullius. Give them their last rites.

Priestess of Arkay: As we commend your souls to Aetherius, blessings of the Eight Divines upon you, for you are the salt and earth of Nirn, our beloved--

[One of the prisoners from the lead wagon walks forward.]

Stormcloak Soldier: For the love of Talos, shut up and lets get this over with.

Priestess of Arkay: As you wish...

Stormcloak Soldier: Come on, I haven't got all morning. My ancestors are smiling at me, Imperials. Can you say the same?

[They behead the Stormcloak, eliciting responses from the onlookers.]

Stormcloak Soldier 2: You Imperial bastards!

Vilod: Justice!

Ingrid: Death to the Stormcloaks!

Ralof: As fearless in death as he was in life.

Imperial Captiain: Next, the Breton!

[Another cry rings out on the mountainside, this time much closer.]

Hadvar: There it is again. Did you hear that?

Imperial Captain: I said, next prisoner!

Hadvar: To the block, prisoner. Nice and easy.

[The player is brought to the chopping block. A large creature swoops over the southern peaks, barreling toward Helgen.]

Tullius: What in Oblivion is that?

Imperial Captain: Sentries! What do you see?

Imperial Soldier: It's in the clouds!

[The creature, know seen as a dragon, lands on a tower, surprising everyone.]

Stormcloak Soldier: Dragon!

[The dragon uses its voice on the crowd, killing the headsman.]

Headsman: Nngh!

Tullius: Don't just stand there, kill that thing! Guards, get the townspeople to safety!

Hey, Breton. Get up! Come on, the gods won't give us another chance! This way!

Oh damn is that the opening to Skyrim? Haven't played the game though but nice

[aro-sora]

As the Daylight Breaks

An aro Strelitzia and aro Ventus fic for Aggressively Arospec Week!

Hearts will find their strength. Strelitzia and Ventus are proud of who they are, but even strength of the heart can't always save them.

Fandom: Kingdom Hearts

Rating: Gen

Characters: Strelitzia, Ventus

1078 words

No warnings

Read on AO3

@aggressivelyarospec

- Strelitzia reginae -

The decorations for Pride always made Strelitzia’s heart skip with joy. Rainbow streamers decorated the lampposts, and flags hung from the clock tower and waved in the wind. Her favorite part was the flower garlands around fountain square. Strelitiza promised to herself that next year she’d sign up to help set up the flower displays. Maybe then she’d also meet some new friends. 

But first, Strelitzia had a personal mission to fulfill.

She browsed the market displays and moogle shops. Many of her fellow wielders sold handcrafted Pride merch at the stalls, and Stelitzia bought a pair of green and white ribbons for her hair. The green was a dramatic difference from her usual red, but Strelitzia was excited to wear them later as a subtle display of her aro pride. 

But that wasn’t the specific item she was looking for. She stopped at a jewelry stand to inspect the rings. 

“Happy Pride! Anything I can help you find?” the wielder running the shop asked with a smile.

“Um, do you have any white rings?”

The shopkeeper’s eyes lit up in knowing delight. “Of course! They’re right over here!” They showed Strelitzia a box of white rings, exactly the kind she was looking for. She tried on a few different sizes until she found the perfect fit. 

“I also do engravings on them if you want a little extra decoration.”

“I’d love that!”

The shopkeeper passed her a page of sample designs. Strelitzia picked out a pattern of the bird of paradise flowers she was named after. The design would be ready tomorrow, and Strelitzia waited out the rest of the day in giddy anticipation. When she returned to pick up the ring, her face hurt from smiling so much. 

“Thank you so much for this,” she told the shopkeeper.

“Hey, it’s Pride, you gotta be loud and proud of who you are,” they said with a wink and showed off a bracelet with beads the colors of the aroflux flag. “It goes great with your dress, too.”

“Thanks.” Her face blushed from the compliment, and she laid her hand over her heart. “May your heart be your guiding key.”

-

The rest of the month passed without much fanfare for Strelitzia. She wasn’t out to anyone and mostly spent the days in the company of Lauriam or Elrena. But she got a few compliments on her aro ring. She cherished those small interactions and considered properly coming out to her brother. 

But her joy vanished the day Master Ava spoke with her. 

A day later, inside the abandoned house, Strelitzia held her Chirithy tight. For once, the ring on her hand provided no comfort. She stumbled toward the door where golden daylight beckoned. She sagged against the doorframe, the last of her strength spent. She should cry for help, but she only had the words for a desperate whisper.

 “I wish . . . I’d had the courage.” 

As her body faded, her heart held two regrets. First, she never spoke to her squish. And second, she never told Lauriam she was aromantic.

And she’d never get another chance at either.

- Union (X) -

Ven had celebrated Pride for a few years now, ever since he figured out his gender troubles and started transitioning. But recently other thoughts had been weighing on his mind. It wasn’t hard to notice romance was a large part queer pride, and for good reason. But nothing ever clicked in Ven’s mind about his lack of romantic attraction, and he focused his attention on untangling his gender identity. 

Becoming a Dandelion leader meant he helped organize the Pride events. It was a wonderful experience to work alongside the other leaders. Ven’s celebrations in the past were always a quiet, personal affair, but now he shared the joy and pride with his friends. Skuld coordinated support groups, Brain helped other trans wielders with paperwork changes, and Lauriam oversaw the decorations and flower arrangements. As for Ephemer, Ven found him in the meeting room one day making various flag pins.

“Hey, Ven!” Ephemer waved him over to the table. Two pins—pan and nonbinary—were already displayed proudly on his jacket. “I have something for you!” As Ven approached, he held up a trans flag pin. 

“For me?” Ven’s heart leapt in gratitude at the thoughtful gift. He smiled shyly as he accepted the pin.

“I’m in the middle of making some for other flags. Are there any you’d like?”

Ven eyed the pile Ephemer already had. Trans was the only queer identity of his, as of now, and he passed over the many orientation flags. But his gaze caught on one he didn’t recognize.

“What’s this one?” Ven asked, picking up a green/white/gray/black striped pin. 

“That one is aromantic, for people who don’t experience romantic attraction.”

Oh. There was a word for that. A sudden giddiness rose in his chest. “Aromantic,” he repeated, testing the word on his tongue. The identity felt right at home in his heart, slotting easily beside the familiar comfort of transness.

“You want to keep that one?” Ephemer asked, a knowing smile on his face.

Ven clutched the pin close to his chest. “Yeah! If . . .  that’s all right.”

Ephemer reached out to clasp his hands over Ven’s. “It’s no problem at all.” He took the pin from Ven and placed it on his shirt, right over his heart. “May your heart be your guiding key.”

-

Each time Ven’s memory failed him, his heart still remembered old bonds. Names and faces escaped him, but his heart always warmed whenever he touched the trans flag pin he always carried with him. He was too shy to wear it around his new friends, but he knew Terra and Aqua would accept him unconditionally. 

Something in the depths of his memory thought there should be another pin as well. Green with white and black. And a friend who’d helped him realize that part of his heart. One day, he promised himself, he’d be reunited with that friend and reconnect the pieces that were missing. 

But this would not be that day. 

Glass shattered. 

So this is it, he thought as he fell into darkness. He’d given his word he’d destroy Vanitas, even at the cost of his own heart. Ven’s eyes closed. His body faded, and his heart rose toward the light. 

I wish I could see Aqua and Terra again. I wanted to tell them . . . 

The glass shards glittered around him—green, white, and black.