#i echo the sentiments back at u :3

[pidgefudge]

cool person great to have on the dash and also you seem nice

yay yippee im getting a good grade in rarely-spoken to mutual something that is both normal to want and possible to achieve

[mooonjin]

Reminiscing

Notes: BLESS THE SECOND SEASDON OF ARCANE OH MY DAYS HES SO GOIREGOSUSSSSSS can u tell viktor is my fav :3

Pairing: Viktor x f!reader

Summary: Years ago you and Viktor had parted ways, and for good reason. It was no longer about science to him but evolution. But evolution is the future? So why was Viktor dwelling so much on the past?

Warnings/Tags: 16+ because its bit suggestive so shooooo - tin/machine viktor, SLIGHT submissive viktor, SLIGHT submissive reader (hopefully its pg enough), swtiching, exes, trying to get back together (oof dont do that), suggestive innuendoes, touchy feely mentions, f!reader implied but no use of feminine pronouns — tell me if I've missed anything!

Part Two >

It had been years since you last saw Viktor, yet the memory of your parting remained etched into your mind like a wound that refused to heal. You remembered the way his gaze had shifted, once warm and full of curiosity, now cold and unyielding. His obsession with the Glorious Evolution consumed him entirely, leaving little room for anything—or anyone—else in his life. 

He spoke in absolutes, his words more like calculations than sentiments. You watched helplessly as the person you once knew vanished piece by piece, replaced by a man driven by a vision far beyond your grasp.

The day you walked away was devastating. You hoped, perhaps foolishly, that he might pause, might see the toll his ambition was taking on everything he once held dear. But he didn’t. He couldn’t. Viktor had chosen his path and you had no choice but to choose yours.

In the years that followed, his name became a distant echo, carried to you only by the occasional whisper of rumours. Tales of the Machine Herald, a figure deemed a God, filtered through the shadows of the world. You heard of his relentless march toward perfection, but not once did he cross your path. Not once did you imagine he would.

Until tonight.

The moment you flicked on the light in your living room, your heart stopped, the air leaving your lungs in a rush.

Someone was there.

Seated in your armchair like they owned the place, their silhouette sharp against the glow of the lamp. You froze, instincts screaming at you to run, to fight, to do anything but stand there rooted in place. For a moment, they said nothing and neither did you. The stillness stretched thin.

Then, their voice cut through the tension like a blade, calm and deliberate.

“We need to talk.”

Your chest rises and falls erratically, the sound of your ragged breathing filling the heavy silence around you. He stays where he is, his presence is unnervingly calm. The dim light catches the gleam of his golden eyes. It feels alive, almost predatory, as it fixes on you. 

“Are you done gasping for air?” he asks after a long moment, his voice gripped with impatience. The words slice through the room as if your panic were little more than an inconvenience.

“What the hell—who are you? Get out!” you exclaim, your voice raw and trembling with a mixture of fear and adrenaline. Your fists clench at your sides, your body tense and coiled, ready for a fight or flight you haven't yet decided on. Your eyes dart around the room, searching for something—an escape, a weapon, an explanation—anything that could make sense of the stranger sitting so calmly in your home.

The figure doesn’t flinch, doesn’t react to your outburst. Instead, he remained perfectly still.

“You know who I am,” he replies, his voice distorted by the rough mechanical overlay of the mask he wears. The silence stretches taut, heavy with tension, his lack of movement somehow more menacing than any action could be.

Then, with a faint whir and the soft ‘shing’ of metal, he shifts slightly. The purple artificial muscles in his left arm flex beneath the layers of metal, “And there’s no way I’m leaving until we’ve spoken."

He leans forward in the chair. You take a step back, your foot catching slightly on the edge of the rug, but you don’t dare look away from him. Another step, then another, the distance between them never feeling like enough. 

You stumble slightly as your heel brushes against the wall, your retreat halted. You were trapped between the hard surface behind you and the immovable figure in front. 

Yet he doesn’t rise. He doesn’t chase. He simply watches.

With a deliberate motion, he takes a step forward, and another, closing the space between you with ease. Panic rises in your chest, but before you can react, he’s there, leaning over you. His body is so close, trapping you between himself and the walls of your home.

“You’ve changed,” he remarks after a long pause as he regards you like an old friend. His eyes narrow slightly, taking in every detail of your appearance. 

“You look… softer,” he adds, his tone flat and dismissive, as if this change in you is something that doesn’t sit right with him. You don't miss how mechanical his voice sounds.

“Who... are you?!” The words escape in a rush. Your voice shakes, betraying the fear that is starting to creep up your spine. Who is he? Why does he feel so familiar, and yet so... wrong?

There’s no trace of recognition, no warmth in the air, just cold steel and the distant hum of something supernatural beneath his skin.

His fingers graze your skin lightly before gently grasping your chin, the coldness of his touch like ice. His grip is firm but there’s an unsettling gentleness to it. He tilts your face upward, forcing you to look into his eyes. 

You can feel the weight of his touch and yet, it feels like it’s not just physical. It’s invasive, as though he’s reaching inside, probing for something. Your neck feels exposed, your breath catching slightly as your body instinctively tenses. 

There’s nothing soft, nothing human about his stare. It’s all too alienated, too distant. The faint hum of his prosthetic arm seems to vibrate through the air, a constant reminder that whatever—whoever—this is, it isn’t entirely human anymore.

He leans in slightly, his head tilting to one side, as if pondering the absence of recognition in your expression.

His mask doesn’t convey anything, “You really don’t recognise me?” His tone carries an edge of disbelief, as though it’s almost unthinkable that you wouldn’t. He shifts his weight slightly, but his grip doesn’t loosen, his fingers still lightly holding your chin.

“Take your mask off!” your voice firmer now, though it trembles with the intensity of your frustration. The metallic distortion of his voice only makes it worse, the mechanical overlay making everything feel distant. He’s not any person you could remember, not even close.

He raises an eyebrow at your demand, "Very well," he mutters, his voice still tinged with that mechanical rasp but there's an odd calmness in it now. He pulls it free and it’s as if a veil is lifted from the air. 

What lies beneath the mask is a face you know all too well, yet so different from the last time you saw it. His features are gaunt, sharper than you remember, as if the years have carved something out of him.

His skin is pale, almost ghostly under the light. There’s no mistaking it. His eyes, though shinier, still carry a familiarity that hits you like a wave. It’s him. The man you once knew—his face, his expression, the very essence of the person he was, buried beneath the mask and the years.

For a moment, you just stare at him, speechless. He’s right in front of you now.

Real. Yet he feels like a ghost, like a shadow of the man you once knew.

"… What happened to you?" 

It’s the first thing that comes to your mind and it seems to carry the weight of everything that’s changed, everything that has shifted between the two of you over the years. 

You stare at him, your gaze traveling over the sharp angles of his face, the hardness in his eyes. This isn’t the person you once knew, the person you once trusted and once loved.

The question seems to amuse him, “What happened?” He echoes back to you, his voice ringing with that familiar accent of his. A humorless smile twists at the corner of his lips, but it doesn’t reach his eyes. The smile is dull, "Piltover happened," he adds, as if the mere name of the city is enough to explain everything.

"What happened," he says again as a growl now, “is that Zaun was cast aside—ignored, neglected, abandoned.”

His words hit you. Zaun. That forgotten, broken city that had always been on the edges of Piltover’s gilded perfection. The place that had been swallowed up by the ambitions and the indifference of those who held power.

The place where everything was left to rot, "So I made the city better, myself." His voice is steady, but there’s a dangerous edge to it now.

“And now Piltover is afraid.” 

Before you can even react, he reaches up with a swift, practiced motion, placing one hand on the wall beside your head. His fingers splayed wide, as though he owns the very space you’re standing in. 

“And you?” he asks, his voice dropping even lower, laced with taunting amusement. The question hangs in the air, thick with challenge, daring you to respond. “Are you afraid of me?”

It’s a question loaded with intent, the kind of question that isn’t meant to be answered, but to make you feel small. However there’s something else in his voice, something... hungry. His words aren’t just a challenge, they’re a test, a way for him to gauge whether or not you see the change in him. 

There’s a part of you that wants to deny it, to pretend he’s still the person you once knew, but the truth is right in front of you. This is not the same Viktor.

“You’re not a person,” you’re not sure if he can hear the quiet desperation in your voice as you speak. But as his gaze locks with yours, the chilling look in his eyes seems to confirm what you fear most. Whatever humanity once existed in him is long gone, replaced by something far more dangerous.

He’s not a person. Not anymore.

“That’s the first thing you’ve said that isn’t obvious,” he sneers, his voice dripping with disdain, “I’m as human as you, if not more so,” he rasps, his words cutting through the space between you with confidence.

There’s a hum in his voice, a certain finality in his tone. “I still have a soul—a heart. One that beats just for you.”

His claim is so absurd, so twisted. A heart that beats just for you? He sounds like he believes it, like he truly believes that his obsession, his transformation, was somehow a sacrifice made for you. 

His hand on your chin tightens and you can’t help but flinch. Here he is, speaking of love and devotion as if those words still carry any meaning. As if you’re supposed to believe him. 

“No, we parted years ago.” The statement feels heavier than you expected. His expression flickers, ever so slightly, the faintest crack in his demeanor. The bitter smirk that had curled his lips falters for just a second before settling back into place.

“We did,” he says, a blend of mockery and intimacy. He pulls back just enough to look you in the eyes. The corner of his lips quirks into a sly, humorless smirk. “I always parted you… in bed, that is.”

Your lips pressed into a thin line as if holding back the sharp retort you wanted to hurl at him.

He laughs again, this time his chuckle is dark and deep, “You remember that, don’t you?” he murmurs, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous hiss. “You remember how I used to make you scream,” he says, the statement suggestive as it sounded. 

His smile widened, the curve of his lips taking on an unsettling mix of nostalgia, “I’d drop to my knees for you,” he murmured, his voice low and smooth. “Anytime, anywhere… begging you to touch me, just where I needed you most.” His eyes burned into yours. 

His hand finally released your chin, the absence of his grip almost startling. But he didn’t pull away. Instead, his fingers trailed down your neck in a slow motion, the touch lingering just enough to make your skin prickle. When his hand slid around your waist, the shift in contact was seamless.

“You didn’t just take my heart when you left me,” he continued, his voice softening into a purr that sent a shiver down your spine. “You broke it.” Viktor whispered. His lips quirked upward again, but this time, the smile didn’t reach his eyes.

“You know why we split,” you say, your eyes narrowing as you force yourself to meet his gaze, despite the suffocating proximity.

"Always in the lab,” he murmurs, his voice softening slightly, but the growl lingers beneath the surface, ready to rise again. “Late into the night, always trying to find a new way to reach the Glorious Evolution.” His lips curl into a faint, humorless smirk, as though mocking himself as much as the memory of his relentless drive. “Always chasing perfection… and always losing sight of everything else.”

His fingers continue their slow, deliberate path down your body. His hand finally reaches the edge of your shirt, pausing there for the briefest of moments before grabbing it and lifting it slowly.

The fabric drags against your skin, exposing your chest inch by inch. His gaze flickers down, and a faint smirk tugs at the corner of his lips. 

“You really are soft now,” he murmurs, "so soft."

You grimaced, "Stop it."

“Why?” He asks, his fingers moving even further down, sliding over the top of your thighs. “You don’t like it when I touch you?”

You instinctively swat his metal hand away but the moment your hand meets the hard, surface of his prosthetic, a sharp jolt of pain runs up your arm. You winced in result. 

He grabs your wrist in a sudden, forceful motion, his fingers tightening with a painful grip, “Don’t do that.” He says, a warning tone in his voice. “Don’t swat at me like I’m some filthy little pest, when you used to kiss my hands like I was your god.”

"You're no God." You try to pull your wrist free, but his grip doesn’t budge.

“I’ve never stopped wanting you.” He says, leaning down to bury his face in the side of your neck. Viktor lets go of your wrists and instead pushes himself between your legs, pinning you to the wall with his body.

“I thought of you when I was supposed to sleep.” He purrs, his voice soft and rough in your ear. “I thought of you when I woke up.”

Then, with a deliberate movement, his body shifts closer, and you can feel the undeniable pressure of him grinding against you, pushing you harder into the wall. “I thought of you when I was desperate.” 

Viktor's lips are close to your ear, his breath warm and unsteady as he speaks again, this time with a cruel twist. "You don’t even know, do you? How much I’ve ached for you." His words hang in the air. 

“I thought of the way you looked back then.” He says, one of his hands trailing back down, grabbing your thigh and wrapping it around his waist. “When I still had you…”

He presses close to you, his hips pushed firmly against yours and his body close enough that you can feel the heat from his body against your skin. “How your skin used to taste…..”

“...You need to leave, Viktor.” You murmur. He leans in just a fraction closer, his lips curling into a smile that doesn’t reach his eyes. There’s no amusement there. 

“Oh, I’ll go.” He says, his lips tracing a path over your neck, leaving a trail of soft kisses over your skin.

“But not until we’ve caught up.” He lets go of your hair, one hand grabbing your thigh to keep your leg wrapped around his hip, while the other goes to your shirt, grabbing hold of the material once more.

“Maybe we should start with a little… reminiscing.”

Post Notes: lol i want to make another part but wioth smut oopsise!!!!!!!!!!!! viktor is eating my brain rn

~ ~ ~

my taglist form!

[princekirijo]

Thanks for the tag :3

Last song listened to: Everywhere by Fleetwood Mac (obsessed with this song...)

Currently watching: nothing series wise but I did watch Treasure Planet and Brother Bear today!

Sweet/Savory/Spicy?: uhhh tough but at the moment probably savory

Relationship status: dating my beautiful gf :3

Current Obsession: also Devil May Cry lmao. Elden Ring and Persona 5 specifically but they're kinda lesser obsessions, in the background compared to DMC u know

Nine People I'd Like to Know Better

I was tagged by @rowansnaps (the reblog thread was very long so I decided to make my own post) thanks for the tag!

Last Song I Listened to: Guilded Lily by Cults

Currently Watching: Uhm I don't really watch shows anymore but I'm currently reading 'The Curse of True Love' by Stephanie Garber

Sweet/Savoury/Spicy?: I got a sweet tooth so sweet

Relationship Status: very single

Current Obsession: Baldur's Gate 3 and my OCs

no pressure tags: @adevilyoudo @djmorn @changeling-fae @loveless-nameless-graceless-two @assassins-and-hidden-blades

[nights-at-crystarium]

i just wanted to pop by and gush about how incredibly well written vivi is because GOD. his story unfolding has made me reconsider several story beats about my wol and thats an amazing thing

theres two things that i think uve done especially well with his storytelling, being that vivi feels like an almost complete enigma to the reader, despite how intimate this story is, and the fact that vivi feels incredibly human - almost TOO human to be comfortable with

so to elaborate on the first point - i think a lot of us (and certainly i can) echo thancreds sentiment that he doesn't know vivian rell, because as intimate as this story can get with his pov, in the end, much like someone you'd meet in real life, we don't know much about him before the point we meet him, and any glimpses we get just signal that theres so much more to him than we get to see. and as much as we DO know about him, i find that every time he does one of his blank, furrowed stares that signal he's thinking something, my brain practically lights on fire trying to figure out what he's considering. to that end i really like how enigmatic uve made him from a storytelling perspective, because it makes him feel so much more real!!! i honestly look forward a lot to learning more fragments (heh) of him and slowly piecing together a puzzle of him as the story goes on. i just want to rotate him in my head lol

but also, this does segue into my other point really well, which is the fact that vivis position as wol really seems to wear on him, and he seems for lack of a better word, completely exhausted! i know (myself included) write their wols with a trait of an almost unbreakable, iron will, which is very much still true in vivis case (again, anyone who gets to the point of shadowbringers without flat out giving up is incredibly strong by default) but showing him at his wits end, exhausted with the burdens of a hero, someone just so throughly *done* with what is, realistically, a pretty shit job is well... yeah! of course he is! he's only human, and he's what, saved the world 3 times now? seen countless die before him, powerless to save them, of course he's numb. the fact that the most defining experiences of the first for him are filled with mostly such... benign experiences, and that the major, climatic moments of shadowbringers get as much fanfare as a forlong gaze, or a like. him hanging out with his fairy bestie is such a cool storytelling decision. (also before i ramble about this the decision to not even show tesleen is such an excellent decision bc like. it makes sense for him for this to not be such a significant moment. shes just another death, another tally to the thousands hes already seen. or maybe im reading WAYYY too hard into a decision to not highjack this love story with plot) basically, what i've been gushing about is the fact that vivi feels very much like a whole person, and is probably one of the most well realised wols ive ever read about. and his relationships with the world leaders, and this impossible burden hes forced to shoulder has gotten me to reconsider how i write my wol, because yeah! any hero might be strong-willed and resilient, but theyre still human, and the burden of a warrior of light is maybe, a little too much for anyone to bear.

i hope u could at least make something out of my rambles, but honestly to sum it all up i am incredibly captivated by vivi. i originally read fragments because i like ANY wolgraha content but now, i come back almost exclusively to see how vivi's story unfolds, and how graha eventually comes into the fold too. hes such a fascinating character, and i think youve done an incredible job of creating a well rounded hero, full of humanity!!! (also, if you want, feel free to post this on ur blog!!)

I think I shat myself like 5 times while reading this (positive)

Vivi being an enigma wasn't really part of the plan. We have a pool that's his lore, things I wanna tell, and a bottleneck through which it has to go. The comic format forces me to consider what bits of info to deliver when, there's only so much I can tell at a time. One deliberate choice I made is completely burn the bridge between ARR and ShB, skip, leave it empty. That already sparks questions when we see a different Vivi at the beginning of ShB (and gives me leeway, time to write with more nuance, I didn't Think about HW-SB in such scrupulous detail as ShB).

I wanted to tell a primarily ShB story from the start, but had less ambition, and planned to condense the angsty bits that you're reading nowadays into an infodump told by Vivi to no one (to the reader). Changing the receiving party to a tangible character who's eager to learn (Exarch) made the info easier to digest and anchored it in the world. This change, fwiw, happened in like 2022 while I drew the ARR arc, saw the warm reception, and got more excited about my thing. I constantly learn and try to improve, writing's a new toy that brings me tons of fun.

So, when I learned the new trick - telling things through other characters - I thought, why not make everyone slightly wrong, or rather, with a specific snapshot of Vivi in their head. Same happens irl, people only know the version of you that they're exposed to, the only person who knows the full and real you is you.

That brings me to the next point, why Vivi feels so human: I made him not as a wol/hero, but a guy I wanna ship with Exarch, his foil. Obligatory note it was dumb of me to ignore Emet's existence in that case, but that's already changed. Exarch denies himself the simple human joys, he plots his own fucking death, so I thought I'd give him a guy that teaches him how to enjoy being alive again. That was THE foundation of Vivi, his core. He's a manic pixie dream boy.

Then I started asking how and why: why he falls for Exarch specifically instead of ARRRaha? He's confident, selfish, casual (these traits are what Exarch lacks), emotionally intelligent, where did that come from? He must've had an utterly normal life and loving family before he became a hero. He grew up being appreciated and happy. OH, then his ass must LOATHE the current situation because he can't go back to that normal life! So on, so forth.

i find that every time he does one of his blank, furrowed stares that signal he's thinking something, my brain practically lights on fire trying to figure out what he's considering.

This's me carefully dropping the breadcrumbs and hoping that you notice them, and you go HOLY SHIT BREADCRUMBS, this's so validating ;w; <3 This's overtly called a story hook, though I prefer "door". So far this story's only opened doors, as in hinted at more stuff without immediately showing it. I love it when questions get delayed answers, when you get time to stew on it and build up anticipation, then, when the door finally closes, it's much more satisfying. I keep in mind all the doors I've opened, if something provokes a question, it's by design.

(also before i ramble about this the decision to not even show tesleen is such an excellent decision bc like. it makes sense for him for this to not be such a significant moment. shes just another death, another tally to the thousands hes already seen. or maybe im reading WAYYY too hard into a decision to not highjack this love story with plot)

You're 100% correct!! I'm not retelling the canon ShB story from a default wol pov, this's a custom thing focused on ships, therefore anything that doesn't contribute to said ships gets cut. You may read what's NOT shown as what Vivi doesn't pay attention to.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts with me, this gave me so much motivation like you wouldn't know ;//////;

[staryuee]

“ YOU MAKE ME FEEL SAFE.”

꒰warnings꒱ semi-proofread <3

⠀꒲ ` synopsis . . . telling [char.] that they make you feel safe ♡

⠀꒲ ` characters . . . aether, lumine, dainsleif, xiao, tartaglia, wanderer, yae miko, kokomi, itto, cyno, kaveh

⠀꒲ ` notes . . . quite short bc a bitch is exhausted from exams </3 love u lots mwah mwah sorry for dying every month

AETHER — 空

“you make me feel safe.”

“eh..?” aether pauses for a brief moment and instantly turns to look at you, a look of both surprise and joy encapsulating his features. he blinks twice, a smile forming on his lips as he stares at you with eyes filled with so much adoration that it makes your breath hitch.

“i’m.. im really happy to hear that, i really can’t put it into words.” he walks over to you and entraps you in a heartwarming hug, one that made you melt as soon as his body made contact with yours. hearing such a lovely phrase so easily drop off your tongue made him genuinely feel like everything he’s done so far wasn’t in vain.

it felt so right; to be the cause of someone else’s happiness; a haven for their security, and to know you had that in him was something so sweetly fulfilling.

LUMINE — 荧

“you make me feel safe.”

lumine stops in her steps to swiftly turn back to you. you flash her a lovely smile, one which she complaisantly returns with blush dusting her cheeks. “you’re so corny.” she goes over to you to squish your cheeks together, staring at you in awe as she does so.

“but,” she pulls you in for a hug, “i’m glad — it’s my job to look after you after all.” she squeezes you tighter and you can’t help but pull away to sneak in a sweet kiss to her forehead, she leans into it, still looking adoringly up at you with that smile of hers, you feel yourself heat up at the very sight of it.

“you make me happy.” she whispers and presses herself closer to you, hands resting gently on your waist.

DAINSLEIF — 戴因斯雷布

“you make me feel safe, you know?”

you were merely having a late night conversation, it divulged from your morning duties and then to what you love each other; your words leaving dainsleif rather speechless. such flowery words being uttered by someone he’s internally sworn to protect till the end of time genuinely feeling safe with him ? if he was a tad bit more.. emotional.. he could shed a tear.

instead, he opts for kissing your cheeks and cuddling you closer with his lips turning upwards ever so slightly. he wants to tell you how loved you make him feel, but he settles for his own quietness and the comfort of your warmth.

there’s still no words in any teyvat language that could express or even comprehend his love for you; he can only hope that his fleeting touches are enough to share a sentiment similar to your own.

XIAO — 魈

“xiaoxiao.” your voice echoes melodically in his sleepy mind. he replies with a simple hum.

“you make me feel safe.” you lean on him nonchalantly as if you didn’t just say something that could break him.

“it’s my duty to protect you.” he pulls you in closer, his heartbeat beginning to quicken with every shallow breath.

“i mean that being with you is just extremely comfortable and peaceful, it has little to do with your ability to protect me.” you laugh as you intertwine hands with him. xiao leaned forward to place a gentle kiss on the crown of your head, responding with a stuttered yet wholehearted reply was not worth the embarrassment for the yaksha.

he pulls your interlocked hand up to his lips and places a soft kiss on your knuckles, the silence thick yet so serene. he finds comfort in solace, but you’ve shown him that the atmosphere of loneliness can be shared with the silent affection of a loved one.

TARTAGLIA — 公子

tartaglia caressed your cheeks, staring at you with such determined love and adoration it was enough to send your heart into overdrive. every swipe of his thumb, every glance at your lips and every kiss that he stole managed to send flurries of butterflies into your stomach; which lead to your impromptu, “you make me feel safe.”

he stopped his ministrations abruptly, his eyes widening yet his smile remaining all the same. he lets out a soft sigh before sprinkling gentle kisses across your face, “you’ve really got me wrapped around your finger, huh.”

your fingers trail up to caress his nape before tugging him down for a quick peck. “yes i do... “ you murmur as his hands move from your face to hold the back of your head, pulling you closer. he lets out another chuckle before kissing your nose softly, a light blush colouring his skin. “ you make my heart race like nobody else could.”

SCARAMOUCHE — 斯卡拉姆齐

“you make me feel safe.”

“i’m sorry, what?”

he wonders what kind of miracle blessing he must’ve committed for you to even think about expressing such a thought. “are you feeling sick? what’s wrong with you?” he pinches your cheek with an unamused look as your giggles bounce off the walls. he turns to leave without a second thought, trying his best to suppress his feelings.

“hey — i was being genuine !” you hug him from behind with a soft smile.

“right, and i’m a human being.” he rolls his eyes as he attempts to push you away, with very little reluctance at your affection. thought he doesn’t believe your words, for ehem obvious reasons, he still feels the slightest bit overjoyed at the prospect of your words being genuine.

YAE MIKO — 八重神子

“you make me fee safe.”

“well, aren’t you a charmer, my dear?” miko gives you a sly smile before taking another sip of her saké. “which book did you steal that line from, hmm?” she laughed softly, patting your head gently as consolation for her teasing. you pouted at the playful touch but she was far from deterred. the moment she pulled back, she had a mischievous glint in her eyes. “do you have a way of showing me your words are true, darling?”

you roll your eyes at her shamelessness, reaching up to pull her in by wrapping your arms around her neck to oblige her romantic request. she gives you a final sly grin before leaving a soft yet passionate kiss on your lips.

“hmm..i’m still not convinced.” she giggles, pulling you in once again. you were in for quite the long afternoon..

S. KOKOMI — 珊瑚宫心海

“hey koko,” she hums gently, looking up at you with drowsy eyes, “you make me feel safe.”

it was honestly like you shook her with electro itself, or like she poured hot tea over herself with the way she instantly woke up; the biggest smile beginning to adorn her gorgeous features. kokomi sighs pleasantly, gazing at you with pure devotion before getting up to hold both of your hands in hers.

“i’ve had many people express such a sentiment, but hearing it from you..it means so much more.” she leaves a trail of chaste kisses across your cheeks before leaving a final one on your lips.

“did you read some sort of book on how to attack the divine priestess’s heart? because it’s very hard to not fall deeper in love with you.”

A. ITTO — 荒泷一斗

“you make me feel safe.”

itto nearly gave himself a concussion with the way his head instantly shot up and then proceeded to hit the large branch above him. you were simply aiding him in finding some onikabuto, what was that phrase for ?! he shook his head to shoo away the dizziness before stabilising himself on the tree beside him with a goofy grin, “well of course you’d feel safe around me ! look at me man, strong as an ox !!” he started flexing subconsciously out of nervousness, your affectionate laughter filling him with warmth.

he took a quick glance at you before trapping you in a sudden rib-crushing hug. “you are too adorable for your own good.” he smiles and squeezes you in tighter with a kiss.

“you’re one to talk, love.”

he feigns an insulted expression and points at himself with dramatics, “heyhey, i’m not adorable i’m cool, there’s a difference!”

CYNO — 赛诺

“you make me feel safe.”

cyno looks at you confused, his head tilting lightly to the side. “it is an honour to make you feel that way, i’m glad to be of service.. but what brought this on?” you hugged him quietly, he pulled you in closer yet he still craved some sort of verbal answer from you.

you thought for a bit before answering, “dunno, it just feels natural to say stuff like that with you, you know?” he absentmindedly smiled at you, kissing your forehead as a reply. “it feels natural saying puns around you.” he mumbles.

“i’ll take everything i just said back, cyno.” you flicked his nose, a small grin landing on his face as a result. “you love me but not my jokes? how disrespectful.”

KAVEH — 卡维

“you make me feel safe.”

“i don’t think i’ve done anything to receive such a grandiose sentiment from you, love.” he nonchalantly mutters as he continues on his recent sketch. your frown doesn’t escape his gaze and he can feel his heart clench with guilt at the thought of making you feel upset at the cause of his own insecurity.

you walk over to him and hug his back and he can’t help but lean in to your touch, “sorry — i appreciate your words, really, you’re too good to me.”

you nuzzle closer to him before mumbling, “next time you disregard my love i’m gonna bite you.” you chuckle and it makes him feel slightly less embarrassed for his lack of response. he turns around and places a gentle kiss onto your forehead and you hum happily against the contact.

“i love you so much.”

©STARYUEE do not copy, steal or repost <3

[smoshyourheadin]

Could u do a spencer fic where it’s like him playing guitar in a band and like the smosh team go to support him? Kinda like a guitarist x audience typa moment cause I miss spencer’s guitar lives! :(

to spencer

pairing: spencer agnew x smosh family

a/n: non x reader fic BUT ohmygod i love them. theyre so cute. i could CRY! requests open <3

the small venue buzzed with anticipation as spencer and his band took the stage, guitars gleaming under the spotlights. the familiar hum of tuning and the soft murmur of the crowd filled the air, blending into an atmosphere charged with excitement.

among the audience, the smosh team clustered near the front, eager to support their friend. courtney nudged shayne with a grin. "can't wait to hear spencer play. it's been too long!"

shayne nodded enthusiastically, eyes fixed on the stage where spencer stood, his fingers poised over the strings of his favorite guitar. nearby, ian and anthony exchanged nods of approval, ready to enjoy the music.

as spencer strummed the opening chords, a wave of melody washed over the crowd, drawing everyone into the rhythm of the music. his fingers danced across the fretboard with practiced ease, each note ringing clear and true.

"god damn, he's really in his element," tommy remarked.

"yeah, you can tell he loves what he's doing," arasha added, eyes sparkling with admiration.

the songs flowed one into another, each one a testament to spencer's skill and passion. his guitar solos were mesmerizing, weaving intricate melodies that seemed to lift the audience to another plane.

as his fingers danced across the neck of his guitar to ‘all along the watchtower’ by jimi hendrix, damien found himself nodding along, caught up in the infectious energy of the performance. "he's killing it up there."

nearby, shayne grinned. "that's our spencer."

as the set reached its climax, spencer's fingers flew over the strings in a final flourish, the music crescendoing to a thunderous applause. the crowd erupted in cheers, voices raised in appreciation for the unforgettable performance.

backstage, the smosh team waited eagerly as spencer and his bandmates returned, a little sweaty but elated from the show.

courtney was the first to hug him, beaming with pride. "you were amazing, spencer!"

"seriously, dude, that was awesome," alex added, clapping him on the back.

spencer grinned, a mix of relief and happiness evident in his expression. "thanks, guys. it means a lot that you came out to support."

chanse nodded, a warm smile spreading across his face. "wouldn't have missed it for the world."

outside, the night air was cool and crisp, stars twinkling overhead. the smosh team lingered for a moment longer, savoring the camaraderie and the shared experience of a night filled with music and friendship.

"here's to more nights like this," courtney said, raising her imaginary glass.

"to spencer," damien added, echoing the sentiment.

they clinked their imaginary glasses together, and spent the night praising their own musical genius.

[listen-to-the-inner-walrus]

uk riots r fucking terrifying. there is a riot in my constituency today. the weather is my fav but i dont feel like i can go outside safely (south asian + afab, i might not be muslim (shoutout 2 all my muslim brothers, sisters n enbies, luv u n i kno u can pull thru this) but im legit scared

i wanted to go out 2 central london tmr n i had sm planned but im questioning if i shld do it. if its safe.

ugh ugh ugh im going to make a post urging my international friends to talk abt this shit bc it is not ok

have a great day and soz for this word dump (not rly but still). i hope u and ur family r safe*, whether u r in the uk or not

*omg the fact i fucking signed off with 'i hope ur safe' is terrifying. i've lived in the uk all my life and always seen it as somewhere safe. somewhere i can go out freely. and these fucking riots have changed everything.

Terrifying is honestly the best word for it. I've struggled to describe it in a way that doesn't just come back to terror.

And I'm lucky in where I live and who I am. We're situated in between two cities so it's not on our doorstep, or at least not yet it isn't Plus round here is a very diverse area with a pretty big South Asian population which makes it harder for them to get a foothold.

So we're in a very fortunate position, and the fact that I'm white also gives me protection from them.

I can't imagine how much worse it must be to not be white with everything going on, especially South Asian. If any of the rioters know the difference between Islam, Hinduism and Sikhism, I'd eat my fucking headphones.

Also gonna echo the sentiment of anyone international, please reblog the posts about this. It might not affect you, but it could easily affect someone who follows you, and also there is not enough attention on this. Like I will go as far as calling it domestic terrorism, it's a massive fucking deal.

You don't need to apologise for a word dump in any way. My inbox is always open even though Tumblr seems to be eating a lot of the asks I get notifications for. We're in terrifying times; if anyone needs to vent about it, feel free to send them my way.

Hope you and your family are safe too <3

[the-travelling-witch]

hello hello good morning!

yeah i get the feeling, especially since on the internet with a screen between you and other people is even harder to express your emotions and sincere gratitude, but as long as you're genuine i think it's already really great! i'm sure you will find a way to accept them with a light heart <3 also cute aggressions and fierce love are PEAK you can't change my mind talk to a wall ~_~

awe, look who's whipped for their favourite boy ^u^ it's understandable really, i mean he's adorable and idieossjsi also yes i read that reply and my my, that's so freaking awesome! as i said it's a beautiful type of love language, cuz you also trust someone to give them your skin as a canvas so it's a HUGE display of your affection for them :'3 can't wait to see how you're gonna eventually add it somewhere else, it's gonna be so adorable i'm already whipped ueidjsisjsjj ;-;

as long as he doesn't make it taste funny as a punishment for being my menacing self i'm in! also cuz homemade food >>>>>>>> like yeah cook it before we crash the couch and fall asleep watching pixar, and i'm yours <3 and in general home dates are the best, you just chill and do what you want, even dancing in the living room! (with or without music is the same, it's more for the "wanna keep you close" thought eheh)

please villainous (in fiction) partners are the best, you have them wrapped around your finger and whatever you want they're gonna get it, just say the word, cuz your happiness is theirs! "that ring looks cute" and they will steal it for you, "that person was so rude to me!" and said person will disappear and never be found again. say a single letter and the world shall perish and kneel before you!

— ❄️

i’ve been staring at this ask for a while now while trying to figure out a response but my brain is so fried from college and writing and lack of sleep that i don’t think i’ll be able to add much to what you already said, sorry ㅠㅠ

i feel like i’m already not good at expressing emotions especially through facial expressions (people always ask if i’m alright, my eyes are as dead as childe’s /lh), so i always have to spell it out anyway, the screen doesn’t change much because of this hshsh

i’m so down bad for him jshsh; because of the self-ship ask game i’ve been brainrotting and daydreaming about him a lot more and he’s just so adorable >///< i would trust this man with my life, he’s so responsible and attentive, go ahead and draw over my entire back, i do not care, if it makes you happy, it makes me happy!!

i’d give everything for a chill indoor date rn, i’d fall asleep after 5 minutes of cuddling but i’d be so down; speaking of watching movies though… i wonder what scara would be into; maybe something indie and artsy? i should think about this… but yeah!! slow dancing in the kitchen past midnight my beloved <3 it’s so cute and intimate, there’s something magical about feeling like you’re the only people in the world and literally dancing like nobody’s watching!!

it’s the echoed sentiment of having a hero sacrifice you for the greater good vs a villain sacrificing the world for your sake… and while i love myself a hot an interesting villain, there’s a third category that makes me go 👀 … morally grey characters; neither here nor there, you never know just what side they’re on other than their own; obvious character flaws but not inherently evil… yeah childe, it’s childe

[the-blaze-empress]

OOOH I love this so much I am TIRED so I might not be coherent but here goes anyway

So Phil IS nobility, casting is commonplace, and Phil’s parents are shit. Good to know good to know

I’m really feeling that Phil’s magic is wrong somehow- either nonexistent or dangerous or even just unpredictable. If he couldn’t control it, that would explain the “can’t behave himself comments”, but if it was nonexistent that could explain the “stupid” comments. I need more cluessssss

Okay so techno IS breaking society’s rules in a way that would get him chased out of settlements- and what was that about a response Techno was not “supposed to be able to pick up on”?? It’s giving telepath or empath, and I feel like Chat might have something to do with it. Interesting, very interesting. It’s the same sentiment Techno echoed of the sleep spell, so I’m wondering if the restrictions on the two different things are connected somehow

Either Phil is infamous in this oasis or they’re extreme xenophobes- or maybe it’s just something about techno specifically? Perhaps all three- which would make sense, considering most settlements are supposedly tightly knit, and we know Phil really wanted to Get Out. Plus it’s already been established that Techno dresses differently. The fact is not lost on me that techno rides a horse while everyone else has camels- I wonder if that’s anything important

Technos whole thing is giving kinda horcrux vibes? In that it’s like using normal magic but in dark and dangerous ways, making him an outcast. I’m expecting some dark backstory to start creeping in- perhaps explaining the origin of Chat

Why would Phil be chats problem? What did chat notice about him during the ride? WHAT DOES CHAT KNOW???

Every new chapter of this fic gets me obsessed all over again, the writing is just so eloquent and captivating, well done as always!!

mood on the tiredness, i just got woken up from an impromptu nap by my flatmate telling me theyre gonna start making dinner

yes!! to all three!! i thought youd like learning that information akjhsdfkfjd it answers some of the questions youve had BUT NOT ALL HAHA ITS NOT GONNA B THAT EASY

dont u worry u will be getting plenty more clues, speaking of, i need to go back and edit smth bc i made it Too Obvious I Think also i just had an idea that would be sick

eyes emoji. thats all im saying. eyes emoji but vaguely threatening because i know whats up and you dont <3

i mean yeah its not every day a guy wearing weird clothes turns up on a weird animal with the child of council members also on the weird animal that most people have only ever seen in illustrations. im not saying thats the entire answer btw but im also not saying its not not the entire answer. kapish? kapush.

oooo horcrux vibes i like it. also yeah you will be getting backstory i didnt write it all out already for nothing kajhfdskahf

"CHAT KNOWS ALL!"* *ᵉˣᵖᵉʳᵗˢ ᵃᵈᵛᶦˢᵉ ˢᵏᵉᵖᵗᶦᶜᶦˢᵐ ʷᶦᵗʰ ˢᵘᶜʰ ᵃ ᶜˡᵃᶦᵐ, ⁿᵒ ˢᵒᵘʳᶜᵉˢ ᶜᶦᵗᵉᵈ ᵃⁿᵈ ⁿᵃʳʳᵃᵗᵒʳ ᶦˢ ᵏⁿᵒʷⁿ ᵗᵒ ᵇᵉ ᵘⁿʳᵉˡᶦᵃᵇˡᵉ

anyways uh. hi. thank you sm for the kind words and the theories and literally everything i love u so much /p

[awalkoflife]

the swat to the arm arrives not when he comments on her chest, but when he jokingly critiques her choice of literature. india took reading seriously. to the brunette, it was a form of self care and a gateway to pleasure. her studies required a ridiculous amount of concentration, so whenever she had the chance to take a break from it all, the fantasy genre was often the perfect companion to get lost in. "have you made it your personal mission to be an arse to me today or!?" she can't help the laughter that follows after playfully scolding him. neither of them held any real contempt in their taunts. it was all for fun. just like the rest of their relationship. a bloody tease. "if you must know, i'm reading stardust by neil gaiman." in india's opinion, his storytelling was far superior to j.k. rowling's. "and if it's a compelling plot you're after, i'll let you borrow it when i'm done. i might even read some of it to you next time you find yourself falling into my bed."

[ sms: fee <3 ] yes pls. wait 2 mins before u follow x

after the text is sent, she stands up from her position at the table and heads towards the ladies toilets. it's not the first time that they've done this, but it is the first time in a long while that she's suggested it. the last cubicle on the left is the one india usually reserves for their rendezvous. be it for taking drugs or sharing other private moments, it's the place felix knows to look for her. she waits quietly for him to enter, slipping inside and leaving the latch unlocked 'til he arrives. there's no doubt that it's reckless behaviour, but she took no greater pleasure in anything else. hiding away, escaping with felix, partaking in forbidden acts was almost as addictive as the cocaine. applying a fresh layer of lipstick, she swipes the matte red across her lower lip and puckers it onto her top. fingertips then ruffle through her long locks, brushing out the waves of her loose curls. you say jump.... his sentiments echo as she applies a quick spritz of eau de toilette to her cleavage and soon, he's in front of her, sneaking into the confined space. i say how high. she wonders if he truly means it. if he wants to be here as much as she wants him to. a selfish thought for a selfish girl.

soft hands reach out to him regardless, fingers curling around his neck to gently pull him closer. "i missed you, by the way." india confesses, opting for transparency in spite of their collective teasing torments. brown eyes gaze up at him with unabashed adoration. a nervous laugh passes and then, black lashes flutter close while she stretches up to kiss him. she doesn't fully know what the status of his relationship with annabel is. if they're together or not. at this moment, she doesn't care either. perhaps that makes her an awful person and a terrible friend. so be it. the kiss is exactly what she needs it to be. tender, warm, erotic yet innocent in nature. a subtle kind of foreplay considering they're both about to misbehave. pulling back, her hand rests against his cheek where gentle strokes are applied to his jaw. "you're also a fucking lifesaver. i'm running low but i'll pay you back, promise."

felix, for all of his good qualities, was capable of being quite fickle. he was whimsical and prone to boredom, his attention flitting from subject to subject. he's unsure if it's the way his brain is wired, a chemical imbalance, or merely a byproduct of his upbringing, the fact that he even has the luxury of getting bored. his mother was the same, and whenever her charmed life of gilded privilege started getting mundane she would latch on to whatever poor soul wandered into her line of sight with bad circumstances. it sounds archaic and it's bad form to acknowledge it aloud, but most women wanted to marry a man of means. a fool he may be, but even with the limited parts of the world felix has been allowed to experience, he knows how it's meant to work. amongst his predisposition to getting distracted and the things society tells him to be wary of when it concerns women, it's really nothing felix faults india herself for. india was stunning and enigmatic, and despite his distractible nature he doesn't think he would get bored of trying to figure her out. a huff of laughter startles out of him, eyes curving up into amused crescent moons. "what the fuck have you been reading, Le Morte d'Arthur? i had no idea you were interested in such fanciful tales. i've been trying to read goblet of fire but it's a bit dull, i keep coming up with fictitious scenarios because the actual plot isn't enough to hold my attention." felix was technically apart of the young adult demographic, but it felt a bit juvenile to him. not that he'd read more advanced or verbose books for pleasure, anyhow. other ideas of what he typically does for fun stir to life when india draws taunting shapes over a denim-clad thigh, heat pooling low in his belly. he's not unaware of annabel's gaze on them right now, but she's become too presumptuous and attached to him as of late, so he remains unmoored. annabel was the snob he'd been fearing india was, and that was far from fair. it wasn't too late to course correct. "i don't know. you'd really be putting me out, i have to wake up for a tutorial at 6 am tomorrow," he tuts, pretending to deliberate as he sucks a breath between his teeth, a warm gaze flitting over her features. sleeping off a hangover because he'd prioritized partying with india or waking up early for a productive day. an unfair battle by all means, but it's fun to pretend the outcome isn't already decided. "you say jump, i say how high," comes felix's breezy reply, willing to offer india his company for as long as she's able to stomach it. her reply to his flirtation prompts him to look contrite, sheepishly tugging his bottom lip between his teeth as heat rises to his cheeks. despite his caddish tendencies, felix was remarkably easy to fluster and india was always quickwitted enough to knock him off balance. he's saved from having to buffer a comeback when his phone buzzes, his face lighting up with the message as a grin tugs at his lips before shooting a quick text back.

[ sms: snow angel ] it's yours so long as u can forgive my boorish behavior [ sms: snow angel ] bathroom ^_^ ???

[millersdjarin]

Some Invisible String

Chapter II: Skies Grew Darker

Pairing: Joel Miller x F!Reader (afab)

Rating: E (eventually)

Summary: Ten years after Reader left Joel for reasons he still doesn't know, they find themselves together again in a town called Jackson. Joel has questions he's too afraid to ask; and Reader dreads having to give the answers.

Chapter length: 3.9k

Warnings/Tags: injury recovery, light angst, ellie is an absolute G and i love her with all my heart

Chapter One

notes: hello i hope u enjoy love u <3

They’ve got medicine here. Actual antibiotics, even some painkillers. 

Apparently some of the folks in town are from all different corners of the country—some ex-fireflies, some ex-loners, even some ex-hunters, like me, Tommy, and Joel. Everyone came with their own stories, and their own supplies, or ways of getting them. 

Well, everyone except me. All I brought was blood and confusion. But, still. 

Angela keeps me in the town’s doctor’s office for a couple of days to recover. In that time, Joel comes to see me several times each day, as well as Tommy and Ellie. I still don’t really know who she is; just that, for some reason, she’s especially close with Joel. But, just like he’s holding back his questions—I can see it on his face every time the room falls into quiet—I’ve held back mine until I start to feel a little more human again. 

Which is today, apparently. Everything is aching less, and I feel like I’m actually awake where I lie still in my bed. I could probably even sit up to eat today if I wanted to.

Ellie comes in sometime in the early morning, not long after I and the rest of the town started to wake up. She smiles, so bright-eyed and young, and sits in the chair beside my bed. “How you feeling?” She asks. “You look better.” 

“I feel better,” I answer with a relieved exhale. “I mean, I still feel like I just came back from the brink of death, but…you know.” 

“I know what you mean,” Ellie says. “I’ve had days like that, too. I remember after Joel was injured last winter, even once he was better he still took a while to get right again.” 

I frown, mostly out of curiosity, partly out of concern. “How long have you two known each other?” 

She blows a raspberry and looks away in thought. “I guess over a year now. A year and a half maybe? Time is weird.” 

“Yeah, tell me about it. Have you been here all that time?” 

“No. We actually both came from Boston.” 

“Boston?” I feel my eyebrows raise. That’s a long way from Texas, and it’s a long way from here. “So how long have you been…here? What brought you here?” 

“That’s…kind of a long story,” she grins, sheepish. “I’m sure Joel’ll tell you all about it.” 

I almost snort. “I doubt it.” 

“Why not? You guys were obviously close.” 

“It was a long time ago.” 

“Alright, well, he obviously cares a lot about you,” Ellie counters. She’s swinging her legs back and forth under the chair, her hands sitting calmly in her lap. “Him and Tommy. How’d you guys meet?” 

“It’s a long story,” I echo her earlier sentiment, not wanting to get into it. I’m sure Ellie is just as curious about my history with them as I am about her’s. But it’s complicated. Everything is always so complicated. “You guys are obviously close, too. You and Joel.” 

“Yeah. Yeah, we are.” A fond smile spreads over her lips, shy, like she’s trying to hide it. She looks down at her lap, fiddles with her fingers. “We had a pretty intense few months together out on the road. But you know what he’s like. Emotions, relationships…not really his area of expertise.” 

I actually do laugh at that, because I can’t help it. Because even though she’s just a kid, Ellie gets it. “Yeah, you’re telling me, kid. It’s just his way of surviving, though, you know?” 

She nods. “Yeah, I know. And I get it. He’s taught me a lot about that. You know, surviving.” 

My mind goes to Sarah in an instant. 

I met Joel five years after the outbreak. He never talked about his past, his family, his life before it all went to shit. And he definitely never talked about Sarah. 

But Tommy told me. One night, when Joel had been particularly gruff and distant all day, insisting on taking all the patrols even though he was exhausted from constant nightmares for a week, Tommy told me it was Sarah’s birthday. He said her name like I should have already known who she was. Like he’d expected Joel would have told me.

I only brought it up to him the one time. That night when I went to bed and saw him sitting on his shitty mattress on the ground, fiddling with the broken watch on his left wrist. “Tommy told me,” I said, quiet into the dark room. “About Sarah.” 

“Don’t…” 

“I just wanted to say I’m sorry. And that if you ever want to tell someone about her, I’m all ears,” I’d said. Then, before he could protest or leave the room out of frustration, embarrassment, survival instinct—whatever it was that kept him so guarded—I just said, “Goodnight, Joel.” 

And that was that. 

Now, lying here in this bed, I look up at Ellie, hear her say Joel taught her how to survive. Something he never got chance to teach Sarah after it all went to shit. Something he blamed himself for. Maybe he still does. 

I think of Sarah, of Joel, of his closeness with Ellie. It must have taken him a lot to overcome his fears and his past. It’s always weighed over him so heavily that I could see it. 

But now, thinking about it, about how he is with Ellie, he looks different. Lighter. Like he’s not so afraid anymore. 

I wonder what happened between them. How he let anyone new into his life again. 

Just as I’m about to ask Ellie, the door swings open, and in walks Joel. 

“Speak of the devil,” Ellie smirks, craning her neck to look at him. 

“You ladies talkin’ about me?” Joel asks. He doesn’t smile, but there’s one in his voice. He’s carrying a covered tray that’s billowing steam up from around the edges. “Thought my ears were burnin’.”

“Yeah, talking shit,” Ellie says. 

Joel grumbles in response and heads closer to me. He’s so tall from where I am, towering over me like a beautiful skyscraper. Shifting the tray into one hand, he uses his other to gently bump his fist against Ellie’s shoulder. “Scoot,” he says. Ellie does as he asks but stands behind the chair as he sits down, putting her hands on the backrest. “You hungry?” He asks me. 

“Starving,” I answer. The food, whatever it is, smells good. Sweet. I haven’t had sweet in so long. 

“Got pancakes,” he opens the tray like someone on an old ad for a cruise. If I was talking to anyone else but Joel, I’d expect them to say Bon appetit. 

“Pancakes?” Ellie repeats from behind him, staring down at the plate with wide eyes. “Why did no one tell me it’s pancakes?!” 

He smiles, mostly to himself. It’s soft and fond. It’s fucking beautiful to see on him. “Well, go on then,” he says to her, so southern that it hurts, “there might still be some left. Better hurry before the other kids get there first.” 

Ellie starts towards the door, but pauses before opening it. “I’m glad you’re feeling better,” she says, smiling at me, then she heads back out into the cold and runs across the street to the cafe. 

Joel turns to me with that same fond smile. There’s a look on his face that says, Kids, am I right? And I don’t know how I translate it, because I’ve never seen him look like this before. “You need help eatin’?” He asks, putting the cover back on the plate to keep it hot.

“I think I can sit up today,” I say.

“You sure? I don’t know if Angela needs to check you over first…” 

I wave a nonchalant hand, then press it into the mattress. “I’m fine.” Using both hands, I start to push myself up the bed, lifting my head and chest. 

Joel shifts on his chair. “I don’t know if…”

“She told me to sit up when I feel ready,” I grunt out, using all the strength I have—which isn’t a lot—to get myself sitting upright. It hurts like fuck, but the pain has been worse in the last few days, so it’s fine. (It’s not. It’s spreading across my whole body. But I just want to eat my pancakes, to feel normal again. To prove Joel wrong and make up for the fact that I cried in front of everyone. In front of him.) 

Joel half reaches out towards me. I start to struggle the last few inches as my stomach muscles begin to weaken. I can’t quite get straight enough to lean back against the wall, and my elbows are shaking. 

Without a word, Joel puts down the tray and shoots up from his seat, reaching out to hold me steady. One of his hands grasps the arm opposite him, the other wrapping around my back. “I gotcha,” he hauls me up against the headboard. God. His hands are freezing, but my skin under where he touches me feels like fire. “Alright?” He asks once I’m settled. 

I can’t quite speak, so I just nod. 

The tray is in my lap soon, complete with a closed cup of milk with a straw, like it’s made for a kid. But it means it hasn’t spilled, and doesn’t spill even when my hands shake a little as I drink, so it is what it is. 

“You want some time alone, or…?” 

I stare at him, not knowing what to say. What I want. 

“Just I know Ellie’s been comin’ in here a lot, so I thought maybe you’re wanting some space…” 

I stab a piece of pancake and eat it. My God, there’s not even any syrup on it, just some stewed apples, but it is like heaven has just exploded in my mouth. I feel my eyelids flutter at the sensation, at the sweetness I haven’t tasted in so many years. Then, instead of giving Joel an answer, I ask, “What���s the deal with you two? She’s a sweet kid. Seems to care about me just ’cause you d—know me.” I stop myself before I say Because you do. Because, does he? Does he care any more than he feels obligated to anymore? 

If Joel notices my stumble, he doesn’t show it. “Yeah, she’s…she’s a good kid. It’s kind of a long story.” 

“That’s what Ellie told me, too.” I’m speaking with my mouth full of sticky, sweet pancakes. This might actually be heaven. 

“I, uh…I did a lot of smuggling, back in Boston. Me and my…partner, we got a job to smuggle her out of the QZ.”

I raise an eyebrow. “You smuggled a teenage girl out of a safe place and into the wild?” 

“I wouldn’t say safe,” he grumbles, “but, yeah.” 

“Why’d she need smuggled?” 

“That’s, uh…” he looks away, down at his lap. For a moment he seems to consider something, his forehead creasing like it does when he’s thinking really hard. “I don’t think you’d believe me if I told you.”

Observing him for a moment, I push a bit of apple out of my teeth with my tongue. “Try me,” I say. 

Instead of answering, Joel sighs, long and heavy. After a minute he shakes his head, and when he lifts it to meet my eyes, I see an expression that I only saw in the first few weeks we knew each other. An expression I never thought I’d have to see again: distrust. 

He shakes his head again, and doesn’t say anything. 

But I hear him clear as day. He doesn’t trust me. 

I don’t blame him. 

Clearing my throat, I chop up another mouthful of pancake and shove it down me. Somehow, I’ve almost finished the plate already. “Thanks, uh, for the breakfast.” 

“Thank Lucy. We’re damn lucky to have her.” 

Lucy is the town’s cook. A lot of the residents cook for themselves in their homes—which was once the norm in our lives, but now seems like such a foreign concept—but she still makes meals in the cafe for newer residents, injured people, and those who are shit at cooking. 

“So, you went on some big adventure, I assume,” I say into the quiet, half-joking. But the way Joel chuckles dryly and shakes his head, I realise that the answer is a very serious yes. “How’s Tommy already married if you’ve not been here long?” 

“He’s been here a lot longer than me. Maria’s dad set this place up.” 

I frown. “Tommy wasn’t in Boston with you?” 

Joel still won’t meet my eyes. He runs a rough hand over his mouth and stubble, rubs his jaw where the hairs are greyer. I’m a little distracted by it, to be honest. I can’t help but imagine running my hands over his face myself. Even after all this time, those thoughts are still there. 

“We, uh, we separated a while back. Not long after you left, actually.” 

“…Oh,” I’m not sure what to make of that. “I’m glad you’re back together again.” 

“Me, too.” 

My plate now empty, I watch him. He’s somewhat lost in thought, stroking at his jaw over and over, back and forth, staring down at the floor. Maybe he, too, is lost in the memories of what it was like back then. When me, him, and Tommy were a team. When we were part of a group of hunters. When we killed to survive. 

It was hell. Tommy always hated it the most, even though I was always the softest. 

But we did survive.

I look at Joel now, all grey flecks of hair and creases on his face from years of horror. I’ve got some premature greys now, too, but not nearly as many. He looks tired. Not badly rested; there are no bags under his eyes or paleness in his cheeks. But he just looks…tired. Worn down. Maybe it’s because of my presence here.

“Joel…” I say, hesitant. I don’t really know where I’m going with it. I can’t stop thinking about the old days. About the day I left. About the letter I wrote explaining why, that was always addressed to the fire, and not to him. “It’s been a long time,” I find myself settling on. 

He laughs at that. I can’t decide if it’s humourless or not. “Yeah. It has.” 

“You got old,” I tease. Because that’s always a good route to go down when I’m not sure. 

“I sure did. Happens to all of us. Not you, apparently.” He glances up at me, then looks away just as quickly. 

“What are you talking about? I got old, too.”

“You still look just like you did the day I lost…the day you…” 

I look down as guilt hangs in my chest. I should say something. I should apologise. Maybe I should explain, after all these years. 

Does he even want to know? Does he need to? 

Do I want him to know? 

“I should get goin’,” he says before I have any longer to overthink. He slaps his hands on his legs before standing up, then reaches for my empty tray. “Take it easy today. Angela’ll check on you soon.” 

He turns towards the door and I try to scrabble for something to say to get him to stay. I don’t want him to leave—not yet. “Joel…” but his name fades in my mouth, because there are no words. 

“I’ll come by later,” is all he says before he leaves. 

Deflated, I lean further back into the wall behind me. 

Everything hurts.

-

“Joel and Tommy both have spare rooms, if you wanted to stay with one of them,” Angela explains as she tends to some of the smaller cuts on my arms and shoulders. “Or there’s the inn where we house new residents before getting them settled.” 

“I’ll take the inn,” I answer, not needing to think about it. 

“You sure? Recovery ain’t gonna be an easy thing. You might want some friends around to help you out.” 

I’ve survived this long on my own. “I’ll be fine,” I insist. “Had worse.” 

Angela snorts. “Doubt it. You almost died, you know that, right?” 

“Oh, I know,” I sigh. The pain in my body never lets me forget it. Then, realising I haven’t said it yet, “Thank you. For…for saving my life.” 

Angela leans back, happy with her work. “No need to thank me,” she offers a warm smile. “You should thank the brothers. They’re the ones who found you. Crazy how fate works, isn’t it?” She throws old bandages into the bin and closes her medical case. 

I chuckle, dark. “Fate is one word for it, I guess.” Luck is probably more accurate. But whether or not it’s good luck or bad luck, I’m not sure yet. Jury’s still out. 

“Alright, well, if you feel ready, you can head on to your new lodgings. I’m sure Maria’ll get you set up with your own place in no time. For now, I’ll get them to give you a ground floor room.” 

“Thanks,” I say, relieved to be getting out of here. It’s not that it’s not nice—hell, this is the nicest place I’ve been in since before the outbreak—it’s just I’m going a little stir crazy. I haven’t been this still for this long in a very, very long time. Every time someone says they’re going out on patrol, I get a little jealous. I want to be helpful, but more than that, I want to feel that I can still look after myself if push comes to shove. 

Which clearly is not the case, because as soon as I stand up with the help of the crutches Angela has loaned me, I regret it. Only for a second. But the regret is there; my brain says, Maybe we should’ve just stayed sitting down! 

As I hobble out of the doctor’s office and out into the snow, a cold breeze instantly assaults me. Angela is behind me, making sure I don’t fall, watching my step for me. But it’s fucking freezing out here.

My eyes are watering in an instant, blurring my vision. Using the crutches helps with my leg pain, but my arms are still weak and trembly. 

It’s as I’m stepping down off the stoop that I see Joel and Ellie coming running across the street towards me. 

“Angela! I told you to tell me when you discharged her!” Joel shouts as he gets closer. 

“I’m fine!” I shout into the wind, definitely not fine. The cold is making my fingers ache. As if I needed more things to hurt. 

“Where are you going?” Ellie asks. She points down the street in the opposite direction, “Our place is that way.” 

“She’s staying at the inn,” Angela says. She puts a hand on my back, steadying me, then gestures to the building we’re heading to.

“What—the inn?” Joel asks, following us now. 

“Yeah. You know, a place where people stay when they don’t have anywhere else?” Angela retorts, rolling her eyes. “Watch your step,” she says quietly to me, helping me hobble over a deeper patch of snow that crunches as I stand on it. 

“She can stay with us,” Ellie says. “You know that, right?” She looks at me from the side. 

I glance at her and try my best to smile through the pain and discomfort. “I’m fine, Ellie. Really.” 

“No, you’re not,” Joel argues. His voice is so deep and rumbly, like it’s coming from his belly. “You can’t recover on your own.”

“Let’s argue about this once we get her sat down in the warm, shall we?” Angela suggests, which gets everyone to stay silent until then. 

Ellie tries to pitch their house to me one last time. Joel is standing in the doorway of my room, looking disgruntled and grumpy, though that’s nothing new. Ellie sits at the bottom of my bed as I tell her No, thank you, for the last time. 

“Alright, well, if you’re sure. If you need any help, or anything…” 

“I know where you are,” I say, smiling gratefully. “Thanks, Ellie.” 

“I got you some of my favourite movies. Since we came here I’ve been able to watch them. You ever seen Star Wars?” 

Chuckling, I nod. “Yeah, I’ve seen those.” 

“I don’t think this TV has a DVD player hooked up, but I’ll ask Maria,” Ellie promises, putting the DVD cases on the vanity opposite the bed, next to the old TV. The idea of watching a movie is somehow alien and familiar all at once. 

“Thank you,” I say again. I’m amazed by this kid. She’s soft and kind and yet hard as nails. She’s mostly covered in winter clothing, but the skin I can see, she’s got a hell of a lot of scars. The most noticeable is on her eyebrow, gashing right through the hairs. It looks badass. 

But it’s also sad. She’s just a kid. 

“You can stay and watch them with me when it’s hooked up, if you want,” I offer. 

Ellie grins. “I’d love that! I’ll bring snacks.” 

Warmth blooms in my chest. It’s so unfamiliar that it concerns me for a second; I think something must be wrong. But then I look at Joel, standing in the door frame with his arms crossed over his chest, wearing his big puffy winter coat, and it reminds me that the same warmth used to be there every time I looked at him. Until it turned to something fearful, something looming.

“Alright, kid, let her get some rest,” Joel says, standing up straight and nodding his head out the door. 

Ellie stands up and smiles at me. “I’ll see you later.” 

“See you.” 

She brushes past Joel in the doorway and elbows him in the ribs as she passes. Joel gives an over exaggerated grunt and bends over, making Ellie laugh as she heads down the hallway. “Come on, old man!” She shouts after him. 

With a small smile still on his lips, and a hand on his ribcage, he turns to me. “You sure you’re alright?” He asks.

His concern has that feeling coming back. Warmth, from my chest to my toes. I nod. “I’m sure. I’m probably gonna try and sleep for a bit.” 

“Angela said she’ll check on you. And there’s always someone about down here, if you need help.” 

“I’m alright, Joel,” I assure him gently, pulling the blanket further up so it sits against my hips. “Look at me, I’m sitting up. I’ll be fine.” 

He stays there for another long moment, but then he nods once, and turns to head out the door. “We’ll talk later.” 

“Later,” I agree, even though I don’t know what there is to talk about that isn’t telling him why the hell did I leave, and asking him why aren’t you angry at me for it?

I watch him walk away until he’s no longer there.

{chapter 2/5}

notes: all interactions are very appreciated, but comments/reblogs especially make my heart go brrr♡ ps. pls come and scream about the tlou show with me i am feral

taglist: @rosymythologies @lover1307

[sungbeam]

darling, congrats on your milestoneeeee !!! so proud of you, duckie, you deserve all the love and support !! I'm sorry I haven't been reblogging your fics to the net for a while, I've been focusing on myself., but I'm going to do that soon !! if it's not too much trouble, would you consider writing a suggestive something or other for mingi ? *wink wonk* >;) maybe he's chilling on the couch and reader comes into the apartment and he's looking too good for words D;

𝗱𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲

song mingi x gn!reader

0.5k words, suggestive, making out, two curse words lol

a/n: kari my beloved, ty for sending in a request!! i hope u enjoy it, if ur seeing this 🤧✨ i hope ur resting well and ur taking care of urself as well !! miss u the mostest 😞💖

Right as the apartment door closed, you heard Song Mingi perk up from where he lounged on the couch. "Baby, you're home! I missed you~" 

You opened your mouth to return the sentiment, only to turn around and realize—well, shit. Was it just you or did your boyfriend seem a lot more… delectable today? 

It wasn't like Mingi never looked delicious on a normal day, it was only because maybe the loose gray sweats and the tight fitted white shirt (he really should have been properly banned from the gym) were putting you in a daze. His silver-grey hair fell gently over his forehead, with some of the strands hanging in the frame of his thin circle lenses seated on his nose. He looked so effortlessly a god, lounging on a throne of soft leather sectional. You could just…

"Baby? Are you okay?" Mingi cocked his head to the side in worry, completely oblivious to the burning thoughts in your head. You really needed to get your head out of the gutter. 

You shook your head and dumped your keys into the glass bowl by the door with a metallic clatter. "Yeah, I'm okay," you murmured, making your way toward him, "I'm just a little…"

You settled onto his lap, his big hands coming to rest on your waist. "Distracted." You heard his breath hitch as your hand pressed flat against his chest and slowly felt him from beating heart to sculpted abdominals. 

His dark eyes dilated, tongue sneaking out to wet his lips. "Distracted?" He echoed. 

"Mhm," you hummed. 

You leaned in and captured his bottom lip between your teeth, then swallowed his moan whole with your mouth. You shifted your legs, straddling his waist, arms looping around his neck. When you came up for a moment of air, you asked, "Sorry, was that okay?"

"Oh fuck, it was more than okay," he breathed, then pressed his lips to yours again. Mingi fell back against the couch cushion and grabbed the back of your neck with one hand, his fingers long enough to hold your jaw and position you just the way he wanted. Every sensation was fully zeroed in on the man under you and devouring you—his aftershave and musk suffocating your lungs, hard muscle beneath your fingertips and thighs. Sometimes you wondered if you would ever get enough of him. 

You were then laid on the couch, his body hovering over you, heavy pants intermingling. His silver hair stuck up in a strange, yet endearing way. He smiled, lips pouty and red. It looked innocent to the naked eye, but you saw the animalistic gleam in his irises. Even through his fogged lenses, you could see the desire swimming in his eyes, begging you to fulfill them.

"You've had a long day, huh?" He purred, voice raw, fingertips trailing down your thigh. 

You nodded, tongue licking your lips. You reached up and plucked the glasses off his nose, tucking them away on the arm of the couch. "You just look so good, Mingi-ah."

You saw the break in his form. His cheeks flushed an adorable pink. Your fingers danced along the nape of his neck. "Can I show you how pretty you are?" You asked him. 

His mouth parted; nodded. 

"Then c'mere," you cooed, and dragged his lips back down to yours. You both were in for a long night.

a/n: don't forget to rb, comment, etc if u liked it!! :3

atz m.list

permanent taglist: @tayunji @im-a-big-mess @staysstrays @y3jiishot @crazywittysassy @seomisaho @stopeatread @enhacolor @yedammi @rnjfy @jaehunny1428 @shakalakaboomboo @hoohoohope

[readerxlit]

HEHEHEHAW ITS ME AGAIN >:) i love ur headcanons and scenarios so much AND u like all the same fandoms as me!! what!!!

can i request a scenario/story about minato and reader reuniting after not seeing each other for years? (after the events of persona 3 but no door fate for minato, he just randomly disappeared or something, and reader never thought he’d return) reader and minato were in an established relationship before his disappearance, when reader sees him again, they’re shocked and emotional and stuff and minato comforts them and hugs them

sorry for the super long specific request but long story short: minato comforts because I MISS HIM SO MUCH [insert image of that stick figure crying incomprehensibly]

Hi again! Same hat meme but it's same Fandoms lol. Thank you so much! Also mood I miss him so much all the time. Sorry about the delay on this but life.

Sometimes it's impossible not to think- to consider- that Minato is out there, somewhere. He didn't die. You know he didn't die. Because he promised he was alive, when the rest of you were panicking in the aftermath of "victory."

Because even though he had disappeared, he had to be somewhere.

But it's been years, and while no one has given up, they aren't actively looking either. You can't blame them, but you also can't just move on. You loved Minato. You still love him in spite of how long its been. And he loved you. It just wouldn't feel right to let go. Even if your hope of seeing him again has long since wanned. You still find yourself wandering back to Iwatodai and Tatsumi Port Island, sometimes. Walking familiar streets. Remembering outings with Minato. Dates snuck between all the other things keeping him busy.

It's like you can hear the call of your name in his voice, if you let your mind wander enough.

So it's reasonable you think you've imagined it, when you hear your name. Close your eyes and refuse to turn around. To face the empty reality. You've spent too much time getting your hopes up to see him again. And yet a hand carefully grasps your arm. Your eyes shoot open and land on him.

On Minato.

In front of you. Real, alive just like you knew he was. His hand is slightly cold, when it lowers to tightly grasp your own. You have so many questions. Where's and why's and how's. But all that you can manage is, "Minato?" Before the dam breaks.

Surprise and relief mix with all the pent up worry.

"Hi," he says, simply. As if no time has passed. Your vision blurs as tears well up. Youve missed him so, so much. "I'm sorry."

"I thought y- I'd never see you again!" Maybe you should be mad at the lack of answers, but you can't bring yourself to be when the person you love most has returned to you. Any other words you try to choke out are muffled when he pulls you closer.

Minato's arms wrap around you. So tightly you realize he hasn't seen you in just as long as you haven't seen him. You return the embrace. Cling to Minato as if you can hold him tight enough to make up for lost time. Or prevent this from ever happening again.

"I am so sorry." Minato's voice is soft, but rough from clear disuse. So achingly familiar despite that. Warm in a way so distinctly him. "It's okay. I'm here."

"You're here." Echoing the sentiment makes it feel more real. He's here. Minato is really here. In your arms. And while you still have so many questions, that's really all that matters.

One hand rubs up and down your back. A comforting motion. Minato tightens his hold on you. It'd be uncomfortable were you not doing the same. Clinging as tightly as possible.

"I love you," Minato says, just loudly enough to hear. You shift just enough to look at him and return the sentiment. He smiles at you, all warm comfort. "I won't leave you again."

[lavynrose]

- a oneshot for artem wing when he finally mustered up courage to ask out their s/o to hang out as friends (theme parks or just garden strolls, you can pick which type of place you want i won't mind!) to confess to them and when he confesses their s/o confesses at the same time too? and the s/o is kinda shy and awkward with him so he gets surprised and all flustered with them confessing at the same time?

(ackk this has been stuck in my head for a while, sorry if there are any grammar mistakes since english isn't my first language! i hope u have a great day!! :D <3)

- coomkie anon ♡

Artem Wing and his s/o confessing at the same time pt. 1

Title: Dedicated

Pairing/s: Artem Wing X Reader

Pronouns: Gender Neutral

Genre: Fluff

Warning/s: Grammatical errors probably

Notes: blushy artem is best artem, and we have celestine being the best wingwoman again

enjoy an amusement park date with Artem <3

Artem Wing is a dedicated man.

If it had been any other person, they would be home right now.

but not him.

Even now, as the looming hours of the night began to tick, he sits at his swivel chair, busied with the love of his life called paperwork.

"Aren't you overworking yourself?" He looked up from his papers to see Celestine waltzing inside his office with documents in hand.

The question should've made him stop and think to at least consider getting rest, but no, we're talking about Artem the workaholic here.

He has heard Celestine's question directed at him for the past few days, and from different people at that.

"Overworking means I have more time to double-check these documents," Artem said as he reached out for the folder that Celestine brought over, "Don't you think it's pretty convenient?"

"Artem," She started with concern in her blue-green eyes, "I know you're trying to distract yourself."

Artem was silent for a few moments before coughing, "Whatever do you mean? There's nothing I have to distract myself from." He said with complete calmness in his voice that he could even fool himself.

"You don't have to hide it, you know? I see the way you look at them," She smiled as she recalled the lingering stares and soft smiles setting display into Artem's face when he's around his colleague "The way you act around Y/N." she added with a hint of teasing.

The mention of your name seemed to short-circuit Artem's brain, Celestine took advantage of this with delight.

"Also... They've been getting friendly and close with that new employee.." She puts her hands on her chin, thinking.

Earlier today, she caught Artem's looks of distraught while his eyes were on you and the new guy. You were having a friendly conversation.

Too friendly.

After that, The youngest senior attorney even requested you to work with him at his desk, claiming that he, quote "needs to keep close tabs on the files that Y/N is handling." end quote.

but Celestine knew better.

Jealous is the only word that can describe how Artem was acting. She decided she will push his buttons tonight.

"Aren't you... threatened?" She beamed at him, waiting for his reaction.

"..."

"They've been on your mind lately, I reckon."

"..."

"They're getting closer with each other, don't you think?"

"..."

Hopeless. Celestine thought.

To say that she's frustrated with this whole situation surrounding the two of you is an understatement. Everyone in your circle clearly sees it - you and Artem like each other.

In the way he bought cake for the whole office that one afternoon the day after an episode of an office drama aired, or in the way that he went out of his way to take care of you in the hospital when you overworked yourself to sickness, or in the way you blushed around each other, the lingering touches, oh the lingering touches. It was all obvious.

The both of you spend your time together more than anyone else, everyone thinks your blooming affections were inevitable at this point. Solving controversial cases meant having the mental and emotional intimacy to get to know each other better compared to your average professional relationship.

You don't see each other as "working partners" anymore, it's clear that you guys want each other as a different kind of partner.

It was known to everyone except for the two of you, apparantly.

Celestine sighed before rummaging through the magazine shelf in the office, grinning when she found what she's looking for.

Artem shot her a look of suspicion. He has a bad feeling about this.

"There." She said with satisfaction before dropping the magazine into his desk.

The magazine lays there, with an eye-catching font and colorful cover page, Artem blushes as his eyes read, 100 cute date ideas...

Judging from the cover, the magazine might actually be useful when giving date suggestions. Under the big font however, there was a smaller text that read, Your significant other is waiting!

What is this...

"I'm sorry but I have work to finish." He tried his best to unsee what he just saw, and decided to turn his focus on the headache of workload in front of him instead.

Celestine raised her eyebrows at him with a frown, "Don't be stubborn now, I'm your boss, I'm giving you both a day-off tomorrow. I mean, you haven't used your day-off at all ever since you started working here. So please. " Her voice is laced with concern.

He looked away with a sentimental look in his eyes, "You don't have to do this for me. I'm fine with... Giving them affection without them realizing it."

Celestine just frowns deeper.

"Come on now Artem, doesn't it sound tempting to you?" She clasped her hands and continued a little too excitedly like a schoolgirl in love, "Having alone time with Y/N, finally asking them out on the date so the other guys threatening your future can back off."

It does sound tempting, Artem admits.

He looked away with reddened cheeks, "I'll think about it."

He doesn't need to look at Celestine to know she's sporting a big grin right now.

Later that night on his bed, his mind keeps flashing images of you. You, wearing a big, warm smile on your face. You, with your little mannerisms that he came to memorize from hours of being with you. Every little thing, every moment, as long as it's with you, he cherishes it.

Oops. The butterflies are starting.

He didn't mind.

You looked stunning today, but then again, he finds you stunning everyday.

When was I this cheesy? He thought to himself.

His thoughts kept racing with reveries about you when a new image interrupted every nice thought.

It was of you and the new employee laughing together.

He frowned and his stomach churns.

"Are they interested in each other?" He finds himself asking the wind. His mind was reeling.

He thinks about the time when he first heard you say that you were married to your work. Surely, you aren't interested in being in a relationship with some guy, right?

Right?

Groaning, he then realized that he needs to make a move now before it's too late.

To him, you're the loveliest person he's ever met, your kindness, your welcoming smile, the passion that you present when you're in the court, the way you always remain headstrong no matter how many people clash with you and try to break your principles.

The only one that occupies his heart, you.

Artem is sure he won't regret giving you his feelings, and eventually, reveal them.

He got up from his bed and sent a glare at the magazine that is now resting on the lamp table beside his bed, mocking him. He picked it up with less hesitation than before.

'What should I choose?' Artem asked himself before flipping the pages, a faint blush adorning his cheeks.

This is a big step for him, and he wants to make sure that he's going to do it right.

7:00am

You rubbed your eyes and stretched your limbs as the sunlight permeated through your bedroom window, the yellow glow giving you a peaceful feeling, a new day is about to start.

A new day without work at that.

You had been ecstatic when Celestine called you to inform you last night of your long awaited day-off, you smiled at the memory as you stand up to brush your teeth.

"You deserve it for all your hardwork!" Even through the phone, you heard the smile in her voice.

Soon, your thoughts drifted to a certain raven-haired man.

'How about Artem? I'm his assistant, does he get a day-off too?' You wondered as you finished washing your mouth, finally heading off to the kitchen to prepare for breakfast.

You were about to choose what to eat from the fridge when you hear a song play from your phone in your room.

You hurriedly went back as you recognized that ringtone - that ringtone you had set for a particular contact.

There on the screen, displays the name of the object of your affections.

Mr. Wing.

'Why is he calling this early? What could he possibly need?' you thought to yourself before pressing the green button.

"Good morning Artem, what is it?" you didn't even try to hide the happiness from your voice, Artem calling you this early doesn't happen often, after all.

"Good morning. Do you have plans for today?" His morning voice echoed through your ears. It was husky and rough, filling all of your senses.

Realizing that he just woke up, you can't help but blush at the thought of being the first person to talk to him today.

He thought of you first thing in the morning!

You tried to control the lingering heat in your face as you replied, "Uhm, yes uhh- none. I have no plans for today, Artem. I'll be thinking of what to do though. Why did you ask? " You hoped he didn't mind the sttuttering mess presented to him this early in the morning.

You wondered if there's an emergency case needed to be taken care of, he rarely ever calls outside of work.

Then again, you're always at work.

"That's good," the other line was silent for a bit. As your anticipation for his reply grew, he finally said, "A new amusement park is going be opened today. I heard they'll be having a fireworks display tonight to celebrate the opening."

You've heard about the said amusement park from your coworkers yesterday, you even heard that it was a project from PAX.

Marius' wealth truly knows no bounds, you thought.

Kiki even invited you to come with her this sunday, as it's the only freetime the both of you had before Celestine's sudden news of a day-off.

Is Artem coming there today? He doesn't seem like the type to go to amusement parks, but now you know that he likes them, or at least he didn't mind going, you added this info to your list of things about Artem that make you fall in love with him more and more. Because let's be honest, what's there not to like about the man?

He's handsome, sweet, a good cook, a senior attorney you can look up to, and he always makes sure to reassure you that you're doing well, that he's proud of you.

He cleared his throat, breaking you out of your thoughts, "Do you want to go there..." He paused, his nerves getting the better of him, unbeknownst to you, "With me? I have two tickets, and I wanted to invite a close friend. Is that alright with you? "

What?

'Is he asking me out on a date!?' you were practically screaming internally as you paced frantically in your room.

No. No way. This isn't a date. Not until he says so.

He said 'close friend' so you shouldn't overthink this. You were partners, after all!

At least you try to convince yourself.

"Of course Artem. I'm glad you invited me, I'm really happy." You weren't lying, his invite was the most unexpected thing that happened to you this week.

He hummed, "I'm happy, too. I'll be there at 2:30pm to fetch you, they'll open around 3pm. " He said in a gentle voice before hanging up.

You pumped your fist in the air. You have plenty of time to prepare.

2:30pm

Among all of the outfits that you could've worn today, you decided to wear a cute, beige, knitted sweater. A pair of faded ripped jeans, white sneakers, and a beanie to top it all off.

The amusement park being your destination, you decided to wear casual clothing since you'd be hopping on rides left and right.

You wouldn't want to wear a skirt just for it to blow on the wind while you're in the air, screaming for dear life.

Nope. You definitely don't want that.

You're now waiting outside your apartment after Artem sent you a text 5 minutes ago that he's on his way.

Your head is plagued with expectations on how this friendly date is going to go. You've never felt as giddy as this before.

It's understandable, right? The person you like asked you out to go with him to an amusement park - using his morning voice, nonetheless, so it wouldn't be strange for you to think that this is like an actual date.

You bonked yourself mentally.

You keep reminding yourself that it's just a friendly date. It's just a friendly date. You believe in the power of your mind, it's a friendly date. He even said so himself.

Artem's going to think you're weird. It's not like you're going to hold hands or anything...

Yet, you didn't even try to stop the daydream clouding your mind.

While you were busy indulging yourself in your fantasies, your eyes caught a familiar spot of black in the parking lot. Artem's car!

That's your cue. When his car stopped, you made your way over to him with a small smile on your face.

His black car opened, spilling out Artem clad in his casual clothing.

You scanned his appearance, taking in those breath-taking, familiar eyes. Taking in the beige, knitted sweater he's wearing, paired with slacks and black shoes.

Wait.

You did a double take- beige, knitted sweater?

You looked at his clothes, then looked down at your own, then back at his again.

Red and warmth crept up to your cheeks as realization hits you.

You kind of looked like a couple.

"What's wrong?" Artem inquired with concern as he stepped closer and reached out his hands to your flustered form.

He even placed his hand on your forehead to check your temperature.

Yes, you think you have a fever.

It's only when he got to take a good look at you when realization hits him the way it hit you.

He retreated his hand and looked away, face as warm as yours.

"Uhh..."

"..."

Why are you acting like a highschooler!? You're better than this, getting flustered just because you wore identical clothes.

With the person you like, you added.

The both of you stayed silent for a few seconds before you spoke up with a grin, thankful that the pink that dusted your cheeks is now cooling down a bit, "We should get going now."

You expected the ride to be as awkward as earlier, but to your relief, that wasn't the case at all.

Artem played the radio on your drive to the amusement park, and even asked you about how you're feeling lately and whatnot.

Honestly, with how he's always so concerned about your well-being, you're doomed to fall even harder.

"What are your favorite rides, Artem?" You decided to talk about something connected to where you're going to go.

"Hmm," as he hummed, you looked in front of the car to see the gates of the amusement park came into view. You can even see the familiar structure of a rollercoaster and a really grand ferris wheel turning slowly.

Majestic.

Is the motif for this amusement park golden!? The railings are shimmering with gold, some parts of the rides are adorned with gold, wherever you look, gold!

PAX outdid themselves with this one, definitely took "shining, shimmering, splendid" to a whole new level. Too much for the word grandeur, you think.

You can't even imagine how wide the place must be. You haven't even stepped foot inside, yet your eyes were oogling as some more rides were seen from outside the gates.

"We're here Artem! Look!" From your side, Artem turns to take a look from the road to the park, his eyes screaming nothing but amusement.

"It's beautiful," He breathed while you nodded furiously with agreement. He shot you a look, "I'm glad I get to spend my first time here with you." The softness is his eyes is blinding as you stared at him and processed his words.

"Me too..." you managed to choke out, turning away to hide your blush.

While you were taming your flushed cheeks, Artem had parked the car already.

He opened the doors for the both of you as he offered you his arm. Confusion takes over your features.

"So you wouldn't get lost, it's a big crowd out here, " He tilted his head to have a better look at your still sitting form inside the car, "Let's go?" He said with that gentle smile, as comforting as ever.

You stood up and linked your arm with his and suggested, "How about the bumpy car first?" excitement was evident in your voice.

He shook his head and chuckled, "Whatever you wish." He said as he locked the car doors with a click. You both headed to check in and do the formalities first. After all that, with a skip to your step, you pulled Artem to the bumpy car's ticket booth, and went inside.

You're elated.

"I can't believe the Artem Wing, the youngest senior attorney, is losing to me!" You sound hysterical as you bumped Artem's car with yours over and over, your bumpy car dominating his.

This is fun! Just minutes earlier, the atmosphere between you and Artem seemed a little tight because of the matching clothing incident. Just a little. However, the laughter of everyone playing in this space is infectious, it leaves you in a really good and playful mood.

It makes you feel like you were a kid again. You hope Artem feels the same.

Before playing, you made a bet with him earlier that whoever bumps the other the most, wins.

"Y/N. I think this car is defective." He said with a frown, his eyebrows furrowing as his hands tinker whatever there was in the steering wheel.

You looked over to him and replied, "We can switch cars, let me see." The two of you switched from each other's bumpy ride and you assessed the supposedly 'broken' car.

You realized he didn't push the right buttons to ride the bumper properly.

"Artem..." You looked at him blankly and said, "Have you ever been to bumpy cars before?"

He was silent before replying with darting eyes, "No, I haven't," He cleared his throat, "I have only been to the ferris wheel and escape rooms, I haven't been to bumpy rides before. Sorry."

You beamed at him.

"Don't be sorry!" You flail your arms to disagree, "There's nothing wrong with that. I'm actually happy that you allowed me to drag you here despite you not having played it before." You flashed him a thankful smile.

He looked a little surprised at first, but then that warm smile of his came back, "Thank you." You stared at each other's eyes for a few beats in time, his ocean eyes containing a sparkle you rarely see them hold. It looks so gentle, so welcoming.

So fond.

You stared at each other for a while, his deep eyes were enough to drown out the crowd. To drown out everything that existed but him.

Blinking, you snapped out of it to teach him how to drive the car.

The cars were booster types, different from the old models wherein you just turn the wheels and you'll be good. In this specific model, commands are needed to be performed in order for the car to execute it's special feature.

"You turn it like this..." Artem is a fast-learner, so the both you were back on track as soon as you guided him the directions.

In the end, you were tied, the bumper time limit resulting the draw.

"I'm definitely beating you next time!" you declared with a smug look, hands on your waist.

After the bumper, a receptionist from what seemed like a family raft ride made his way to invite the two of you.

"You guys look like you're having fun!" He then pointed at the paper he's holding and said with persuasion, "You're going to have even more fun here! The family raft ride is the only free ride we're offering in the park for it's first day, be sure not to miss out on this special bonus!" He then turned his heel to find more costumers.

You blinked, "Too bad we don't have extra clothes..." You hung your head low and you sighed as your mind thinks of a different ride to enjoy.

"Well, he did say it's a special bonus," Artem pondered, "They sell clothes here anyway, and there are restrooms we can change on," you wondered if this is going the way you think it's going, "I can see no harm in trying this free ride." He finished with the corners of his lips turned upwards.

Your eyes sparkled with so much joy that he's glad he suggested this.

"Then what are we waiting for!?" You squeal and jump from where you stand and Artem could only shake his head at you with an adoring look in his ocean eyes.

You both headed to the line of people waiting to get their tickets for the raft.

"That's a long line..." You're already mentally tired as you stared at the single file of people in front of you.

"There's still plenty of time before the fireworks at 7pm, I can go and buy us ice cream. Do you want some? "

You're face fell, remembering you were on a diet, "I appreciate the offer, but no thanks, I'm on a diet." An ice cream sounds really tempting right now, but you must resist.

"I heard they sell low-fat ice cream in here. How about that?" He proposed as his eyes glinted with satisfaction.

He knew this would do you in, sure enough, you gave him the biggest grin you could muster.

"You're the best, Artem! Any flavor is fine, by the way. " You beamed as he turned his heel to the ice cream stall, you just stared at his back the whole time he was away.

A minute later, the man wearing a cozy beige sweater that matches yours turned around and went over to you, two chocolate chip ice cream in hand. You reached out to take your ice cream, your fingers brushing.

You ignored the tingling feeling and the chills. He looked away.

While eating, you talked about how the line for the rollercoaster was two times longer than the raft's even though it's literally free.

"I believe they added a new feature to the coaster." Artem reasoned.

"You bet. The rides' golden theme is already impressive enough," You eyed the unbelievably long line from the coaster's ticket booth, "We can go back here some time to see that feature for ourselves." your face heated as you realized the implications in your words.

His eyes widened for a single moment and then looked at you with such intensity you can't bring yourself to look away, "I'd love that." a gentle look worms it's way in his features once again.

Comfortable silence dawns on your own, little world while you both busied yourselves in your ice cream.

The two of you were thrilled as it was your turn to ride the raft, ice cream long gone, replaced by the life-vest in your hands.

"Ah," you sighed, fumbling with the vest a little longer than you should have.

Artem, of course, noticed your movements. He was kind enough to help you adjust the vest.

Of course.

"Come here." He said as his arms finds it's way to your waist, pulling you towards his stature. His hot breath hitting your face while he circled his arms around you to wrap the vest securely.

This is not good for your heart...

He's so close, you could kiss him if you wanted...

He pulled away, his warmth lingering still.

Even when the both of you sat down on the raft. The ride is going to start in a few and here you are, lost in the feeling of Artem being near you.

"Y/N," You abruptly turned your head to him when he suddenly called you, "are you nervous?"

You blushed so hard you wanted to evaporate with the water, 'Yes. You make me nervous.' you're tempted to respond.

"Yes, but don't worry about me." was your reply instead, and you smiled awkwardly and stared at his blue eyes, blue eyes laced with concern.

He leaned closer, probably so that the other people within your raft wouldn't hear, "I care about you and I want you to feel as comfortable as possible," he whispered in your ear, sending chills to your spine.

This is definitely not comfortable, Mr. Wing.

Your heart is doing flips, this isn't normal!

"Please tell me if you need something." The gentleness in his voice took your breath away the way it did as the first time.

The fact that he's unaware of his effect on you angered you so much. You scanned his face for signs of teasing. Smirk, maybe a playful glint, anything.

Yet you found none.

The raft began to move, a perfect timing to change the subject!

You leaned on him, but not too close, and whispered, "It's starting."

Water began to splash, as the raft moved with the current.

The track was smooth at first, you getting small splashes here and there.

Until a bumpy track decided to present itself.

Like before, the raft went with the flow of the water, except that it bounced and rotated harshly that one particular splash of water was enough to wet you and your clothes completely.

"OH MY G-" you exclaimed when the raft hit a rough spot again, soaking everyone wet.

You were making a surprised pikachu face as the water seeped into your clothes.

You turned to look at Artem to see his state and you suppressed a giggle with how he's making the same face as you did earlier.

Never in your life you thought you'd see Artem with the surprised pikachu face.

You took pride in knowing that you're one of the very few people who gets to see this side of him.

"Artem!" you shouted through the noisy stream of water. "We look silly!" you laughed as the water rocked everyone in the raft as harsh as it possibly can. Round and round, back and forth.

"We do!" his laughed mingled with yours even when the water relentlessly kept soaking your already wet bodies.

You smiled once again, gazing at his form with profound fondness longer than just a friend would've done.

6:00pm

"That was really fun!" You shouted to the air while Artem scooted beside you, offering his arm like he did earlier, which you eagerly took.

The both of you went for another round on the raft after the first round, not caring about the long waiting line. The ride was worth it!

All you ever did was scream and laugh at each other's state, but it was the most enjoyment you've ever had in years.

You were completely dry now, changed into fresh clothes that were sold as the park's merchandise.

Even with the change of clothes, the clothes you were wearing right now still matched Artem's.

You weren't complaining.

The crowd continues to enjoy themselves, all while the sunset was making everything in the theme park look like a fairytale.

"Yes, it was. I enjoyed it very much." Artem flashed a smile so genuine, you wanted to see this sight a thousand times more. The orange glow of the sunset gives his raven hair a golden shade, light reflecting on his blue eyes, making him look so bewitching. So you carved it to your memory, not knowing how to elicit that same image from him once again.

Looking up at him, and looking back at the things that happened today, you realized something.

You couldn't take this silent pining anymore, you wanted to tell him how precious his smile is to you, to tell him you're glad he's spending his time with you, to tell him to make more memories with you.

To tell him he's the reason of the warmth flooding your whole being right now.

'I'm in love with you' is what you first thought of saying. No matter how cliche that may be, you wanted to let him know, that you're in love with him.

"Uhh, Artem, I-" You were about to spill your feelings then and there when a voice boomed the speakers of the park.

"Everyone! One hour more to go for the fireworks! Please look forward to it!"

Your confession's gonna have to wait for later.

part 2 here

do not repost © lavynrose 08/15/21.

[voidcat]

characters: eddie munson, you

songs: Самый грустный by ssshhhiiittt & Cosmic Hero by car seat headrest (this one's vaguely referenced)

a/n: um... uhh... this counts as comfort, right? ....right? – for @caffeinatedremmy bc we both goin thru it tgt&lt;3 (i promise ill finish that fluff for u some day...)

when eddie munson closes the door behind, leaving the noise of the party and warmth of the people behind, he doesn't have many expectations residing.

or any, for that matter...

maybe just the chilly late autumn air biting into his skin, prickling one by one like thin needless, the echo of whatever monstrosity they'll blast from the speakers now that he is out, the muffled laughter and chatter of friends, and their friends, without a single care in the world.

the moon looking down from her shiny spot maybe, that is, if tonight was not meant to be engulfed in complete darkness.

he doesn't expect to see someone else already hunched over the balcony rails. from what he can make out from his spot, forearms rested against the cold, hard wood, the cold must've been committed so deep into their bones, their back doesn't even tremble.

he certainly doesn't expect to see you, either.

he was partially right, his brain registers as a forethought, with the pale, useless light of the moon barely doing anything to help. the lights coming from the inside painting the night better than the sun's reflection.

and from where he stands, you're either muttering something, listening to music at a volume dangerously low level– or you've frozen up to death already and he got tired of typical teenage bullshit a little too late.

one step taken involuntarily and the floor creaks under his foot, making you move your head ever so slightly, stealing a side glance and redirecting your gaze back on the empty, endless fields.

a part of him is excited, that you're here.

a part of you would've shared the sentiment any other day.

when he walks up to you, standing near and mimicking your position, though he thinks he looks too lanky and lacking your grace, you only divert your eyes his way, an acknowledgement.

and a slight greeting, if he decides takes up on it.

and take it he does, he doesn't even wait.

hand fishing for a cigarette in his pockets, he takes out the lighter and flicks it open with his other hand, allowing himself a second to watch your face as the light from the flickering fire falls onto your face, every line and curve.

with the dim streetlamps and the faint moon, he thinks a cigarette would look good in your hand– adding something else to the atmosphere you share here now, not entirely but engulfing enough he knows he'd forget breathing.

"what brings you here?"

eddie is the first to break the silence as most days.

perhaps he finds the silence unbearable, suffocating, that he always looks for means to cut through it– be it with jokes, words, games or music.

the quiet of the world doesn't necessarily have to be a bad thing.

it can be heavy more to anyone's liking, quite often at that too, but it isn't harming. it doesn't scratch at your flesh with nails, it only exists in the same space as you, an idle company, passive, no questions asked, no judgement sent your way.

your eyes flicker to his direction, another side glance– third time's the time, they always say; then your head turns, facing him fully.

"you mean this point in life with the curren status, situation, titles and labels, as well as regrets and joys i posess within myself?.." you ask back as one hand gestures at nothing, the space before you, the faraway trees and bushes in the distance with no furry occupants in present. "or do you mean the party, and this spot on the balcony?"

the unlit cigarette between his fingers, he snickers at your words and shakes his head with closed eyes.

it doesn't take a genius, or someone extremely close to you, to see you're not feeling alright.

"the latter," eddie says aftera while, "but a part of me fears you'll say you fled from my choice of songs."

his words draw a faint smile from you. fainter than the light of moon he belittled earlier maybe, but a smile nonetheless.

eddie will take every victory he can get when it comes to you, no matter how small or unimportant.

"the music was quite good actually, i guess it's the whole socializing and human interactions bit i wanted to get a break from." you say and end his misery just like that, only to make way for more questions, but 'hey, small victories and all', he tries to remind himself.

it is cold, and only grows cold. brown eyes travel down your figure and see the lack of clothing, the goosebumps youre getting, how your body can only stay numb for so long and begins shivering again.

a part of him wants to reach out.

maybe hold your hand, place it on your shoulder, or wrap an arm around if you wouldn't mind. and so he goes with the least risky option, yet you draw back as his fingertips brush your shoulder.

it shouldn't hurt, but it does.

the heart always feels what it wants, however it wants. no amount of logic can undo the feeling scorching in his chest now, the sting he feels in his heart; nothing can rewind time and change the trajectory of time; take away this moment, create a new one, a warning his way would've been appreciated while we are at that– alas, this is the reality he resides in and no such thing is possible, at least not for now.

probably just an instinctive response at first, yet it lingers until he decides to smoke it away. turning his head the opposite way every time he puffs out the smoke.

"so, any new music you've been listening lately?" he asks, speaking of music and all, and because it seems like there is at least a song playing within you now, even if not a thought nagging at you.

there he is again, eddie munson, the mighty knight fighting against the silence.

eyes focusing on a spot, you hum to yourself, "some, i suppose, they're probably too light for your taste though." you answer more to yourself than him yet your hand still go for towards your neck, freeing the headphones residing there and holding it out his way.

leaning in to the side, and partially crouching on one foot, eddie rests his ear against the device as your finger hits 'play'.

the song plays out and he can hear clearly what you meant by your assumption. not exactly fitting his usual picks but the melody is still nice. he wonders what the lyrics are about, unsure if you'd be willing to translate some time.

despite the volume and the song playing right into his ear, he can hear your voice singing along quietly to yourself. humming to the tune and how distant you look in that moment, would his hand go right through you if he reached out?

he doesn't need to understand russian to tell this is a sad song, just as he doesn't need to be your boyfriend to read you, and know when to speak and when to stop, when to hug and when to keep his hands at both sides.

your head slowly sways to the melody, a finger moving lazily left and right as the end of the road becomes apparent for the song.

he wishes he could help somehow, do more– wishing a nat 20 would work just as it does in his little crafted worlds.

the silence is not crushing, per se, but eddie finds it easier to breathe when it is your laughter ringing in the air.

[cotccotc]

🎙 SESSIONS WITH YOU — CB

genre/s: fluff, chan (“chris”) x gn reader, producer!chris x vocalist!reader, mutual pining ?? i guess jsjsj

wc: about 1k

warning/s: minor swearing !! also it centers around music production/vocal recording so i use a few ~producer terms~ lol. if u need clarification on what something means, pls don’t hesitate to ask :)

a/n: AHHHHHH i haven’t written in so long .... i’m DEFINITELY rusty and this idea came to me at about 12:30 in the morning while i was watching a video of ariana grande comping vocals lmao. so pls excuse how rough this is <3 jdjjd i hope u like it !!!!

“can you drop me in a little closer this time?” you asked from the booth. adjusting the headphones atop your head, you cleared your throat. you never really got used to hearing your own voice while you speak. you’d been in this exact studio under the same conditions countless times before, but the subtle, reverb-coated echoing of your voice never failed to make you giddy. it sounded so professional. you were in your happy place.

“i dunno, can i?” chris teased into his own mic from the other side of the studio, evoking a giggle from you. holding onto the headphones, you took a few steps backward, leaning toward the window to flash him a death glare. contrastingly to yours, his face was aglow with a shit eating grin you’d normally shy away from observing. seated alone behind the vast console, he was in his element. he glanced at you, pretending to be unfazed by your visible disdain whilst clicking away with his mouse. with a slight chuckle, he gave in. he pressed and held the button to speak to you. “yeah, sure.”

you nodded. “that’s what i thought.”

the song was yours, though he most certainly had an influence on it… in more ways than one. you were nervous to come to him with the lyrics, and for good reason. it was undoubtedly about him; about how you constantly think about him, almost mirroring the feeling of having a song stuck in your head. you couldn’t have been more obvious, even though it wasn’t your intention. thankfully, you thought, he hadn’t noticed, but rather simply enjoyed the lyrics to the point where it inspired him almost immediately. he completed the instrumental in a matter of days.

unbeknownst to you, he was not as oblivious to your wordplay as you’d assumed.

you walked back over to the side of the booth on which stood a music stand, lyrics sheet, and small monitor, all situated below the hanging microphone you’d gotten so accustomed to performing into. you took a deep breath, signaling for him to begin again. you closed your eyes as the music filled your ears. he’d punched you in at the perfect place, giving you just enough time to prepare yourself before you needed to sing. you were absolutely in love with the track. it sounded just like what you’d imagined; soft r&b laced with ballad-like string swells, all set to a steadily pulsing rhythm. with melodic synth stabs and a hi-hat pattern to die for, it was perfect. you smiled and took another quick breath before harmonizing with the previous vocal track you’d recorded.

on the other side, chris was speechless. he always adored the sound of your voice - and never hesitated to make such sentiments known - but to hear you sing with such yearning for the very man who was comping your vocals almost made his head spin. he was infatuated with you. with each riff, his heartbeat hastened; his eyes softened to the tone of your vibrato; he watched the expanding and contracting of the sound waveform on his screen with fondness in his eyes, almost as if you yourself were opposite him… he even nearly forgot to stop recording once you were finished with the section. in all honestly, recording with you made him forget his place in the studio. he was but a humble observer, eager to hear your newest harmonic epiphanies. your biggest fan.

after a slight hesitation, he ended the recording. “i think that was a good one!” you exclaimed, excitedly removing the headphones and placing them onto the music stand. harmony isn’t often easy, but this song seemed to write, compose, and produce itself as you went along. it was refreshing. you opened the door and rushed out of the booth.

“that was… amazing,” chan noted, beaming at you as you approached him under the dim light of the small space.

“you really think so?” you questioned. you smiled back down at him, clasping your hands together and holding them up to your chin. you were truly ecstatic.

he chuckled again at your enthusiasm. “of course! have a listen.” he backed up to the beginning of the section with which you’d just harmonized, standing up and pressing play. he adjusted a few things as it played, tweaking the volume levels and effects he’d overlaid on your voice. they were minimal, yet effective. you could never understand how he knew to do any of it. it was instinctual. there was so much going on in that mind of his that you often dreamt of exploring.

“you’re truly incapable of making a bad song,” you said.

he let out a bigger laugh this time. “my songs are only good because you sing on them,” he replied earnestly. after a beat, he shifted his eyes to you and continued. “it’s you, y/n.”

you looked back at him. you could feel the authenticity in his gaze. he didn’t mean to say it, but he meant it what he said.

your smile diminished in favor of a more relaxed expression. “i guess we make a pretty good team, then,” you responded, your tone much more serious. you hadn’t noticed how close the two of you had gotten to each other. it’s funny how such tension can construct itself out of thin air.

a small breath left his nose. your eye contact was goosebump-inducing. his lips began curling into a smile as he muttered, “something like that…”

it was in this moment that you truly understood what it is to yearn.

yet, just as the proximity between you lessened further, the song came to an end, snapping both of you out of your daze. he quickly pressed pause as you took an awkward step back. after a few long blinks, he looked back toward you, asking oh-so-nonchalantly, “so… any final touches?”

“y-yeah!” you cleared your throat again. “i’ll… i’ll do some ad-libs… and stuff.”

“perfect! you’re- that’s… perfect...”

you could feel heat rise to your face as you hurriedly opened the door to the recording booth. after shutting it behind you, you leaned against it, taking a deep breath to ease your adrenaline. if he couldn’t hear you, you might have let out a squeal.

“you ready?” he shouted, his voice penetrating through the window.

once again, you donned your headphones, increasing the volume of the session on your monitor. “yeah,” you replied, your voice reverberating through the speakers once more.

and thus, back to work you went.

tags: @stayndays, @hanniiesuckle17, @leggomylino, @freckledberries, @kisskissbanggang, @mr-jisung-main, @childofthecosmos, @kpopscape, @skzwriternet, @hyunsins, @sleepylixie, @sunshine-skz, @wonciel, @thatrandomoneinthecorner, @seungminsaidsta, @somethingrandomworld, @ethan806, @eajone, @hyunsluvv​, @geniejunn​ ( join my tag list !! )

©️ cotccotc 2021 ~ all rights reserved. do not repost my work on tumblr or other platforms.