#i guess i went with a small gif because i've been waiting to make one with lil baby aim for sO LONG!!! look at him being so cuuute >:'Dc

[yuriyuruandyuraart]

HAPPY (late) BIRTHDAY @zu-is-here!!!!

i can't believe i missed your b-day again!! i had to make you something this year and so why not draw the bean the legend, the sweetest baby ever as a gift!!! >:Dc

thank you so much for all of your sweet words and making your blog one of the most comforting places to be at!! hope you're having an amazing day<3333

[admirationandromantics]

Going overboard, 8: Revelation

Hope you liked yesterday's treat! Don't worry, Josh's fine (so far) so don't think about the fact that you just beat the crap out of him. It just had to happen. Anyways, the exam went okay I guess, and I have more, but the worst one is done so I'm finally ready to take care of the longer fics I've been planning on writing. So here's chapter 8, only 3 more to go now!! Remember that requests are open and my blog is always 18+ because of mature content <3

The silence is deafening, Mike sitting on one side, and me on the other. We never got close like I did with the other guys. There was mostly just a friendly comment here and there. Everything I knew about him was from when Emily talked about him, which she used to do a lot. 

“Want to tell me about Jess?” I try asking, looking up at him. 

“No.” I nod. At least I tried, but I get why he’s like this. 

“Want to tell me about Josh?” he asks, pointing his head in his direction. I look down, shaking my head in reply. I can feel my eyes water. Hours upon hours of stress built up. Mike is breathing heavily, as if to steady himself. I wonder if he’s thinking about Jess, and I wonder how everything played out for him. 

“She was taken from behind” Mike suddenly says. 

“Huh?”

“Jess.” I look at him confused. 

“We had just come to the guest cabin, and she thought some of you guys were playing a prank on her. She went outside and started shouting. I looked out at her, and I didn’t see anything, but when she came inside again…”

“What happened?” 

“The glass on the door shattered, hands grabbing her from behind, and she was dragged out. There was a rifle, and I took it. I ran after her. We went down some mines and I found her scratched up in an elevator.”

“Good lord…” I whisper, reminding him that I’m still listening. 

“Well, the wires snapped, and the elevator fell. I don’t know how far, but considering her condition at the end…”

“I’m so sorry Mike” I walk over, laying a hand on his shoulder, rubbing small circles. 

“I saw him, he walked up to the Sanatorium on the mountain.” My brows furrow. That’s a bit of a walking distance, especially to be back in time for the ‘killing Ashley or Josh’-bit. 

“The Sanatorium?”

“Yeah, and there was all of this stuff, and wolves and things.” A revelation goes through my head, and I don’t know why I questioned this before. 

“Wait, Mike. This cannot have been Josh”

He looks up at me, confusion plastered on his face. “What?”

“I was with Josh after you and Jessica went. We had to turn on some water for Sam, we played with an ouija board and… some other stuff”

“You were with him?” he points to Josh. 

“All I’m saying is, I’ve had my eye on him tonight, and when I didn’t, he was busy fucking with Ashley and Chris.” 

“So you’re saying that there is a real maniac on the mountain?” My heartbeat quickens. I forgot to think about the present, all of us now. If he killed Jess, he might kill the rest. 

“If that’s what you saw,” I whisper, looking for confirmation from him. 

“It is.” Shit, a light goes on in our heads at the same time, we need to tell the others. We need to warn them, and we need to get off this mountain. He stands up, ready to leave. 

“Okay, let’s go.” I’m about to follow when I suddenly stop, remembering the third person in the room. 

“What about Josh?”

“I didn’t think about that” he states, hand scratching his neck. As we stand in silence, a loud scream is heard. A girl, not Ashley or Sam. 

“Emily!” I shout. He looks worriedly over at me, before turning to look out the shed. 

“Here, use this if the maniac comes!” He throws me the gun, and I catch it with ease. 

“Make sure she’s okay” I urge him, and he nods before running out in the winter cold. I close the door after him, making sure that as little snow comes in as possible. 

The second I do, a low grunt is heard behind me. 

“Josh?” I ask, concern taking over me. 

“What the hell?” he groans, carefully raising his head. I run over, taking his head in my hands. I lift his hair from his forehead, noticing a bruise starting to form. Shit. 

“I’m so sorry Josh, I freaked out. You were saying stuff, and things started bubbling up and you just won’t shut up and everyone got fed up…” I start rambling, eyes feeling sore and dried up for the night. My throat is closing up, it feels dry from the cold and hurts. He just looks at me, confused like a child. 

“J-Josh? Can you hear me?”

He blinks a couple of times, several emotions overtaking him. 

“Yeah I do. You knocked me out.”

“Josh, I’m so sorry” I cry, face falling in his lap. He shifts, and I’m suddenly aware that he’s still tied up. 

“Shit, I’ll fix that for you, just… Please don’t run back to the lodge. We need to talk.” He nods approvingly. The knots the guys made are complex and many, but I manage to get them loose. When he’s free, he stands up, and I’m afraid that he’s going to run. He looks at me, his eyes soft with a tint of darkness. 

“Do, do you remember everything that happened?” I ask, slowly walking towards him. One step at a time in a careful manner. His body tenses, and I stop. I don’t want to scare him away. I look down, seeing the gun in my hands. I take a deep breath before putting it on the ground. He watches my movements carefully, seeming a little more at ease when the weapon is out of reach. 

“This was not how any of it was supposed to go down, you-” he stops, looking down, kind of ashamed. 

“I know, I know Josh, but we’ve just discovered that there are more things at stake here than your prank” I counter, taking another step. 

“I mean, we, we were together, and I didn’t want to hurt you and-”

“I know, it’s okay. I figured you weren’t quite yourself” I add, finally standing in front of him. He looks down on me, skin scraped and voice hazy, but his mind, a little clearer. A make a move, my hand going to his waist, holding lightly. Before I can proceed, both his arms swing around me, holding me tightly against his chest. I fold my arms around him, hugging tightly back. His heart is beating rapidly, breath hot against my neck as he digs his head down. I give soothing strokes on his back, trying to remind him that I’m here, I’m real and it’s okay. 

He pulls back, and I mirror his movement, not daring to do anything drastic to trigger him. His hand moves to my face, caressing my cheek with his thumb. 

“You’re here?”

“I promise I am”

“And you’re really here?” 

“Please trust me, I am here. I’m here with you” I add, taking his hand in mine and kissing him. He looks a mixed between calm and stunned, two opposites encaged in a troubled mind. “We’ll be out of here in the mor-” I start, but am interrupted by a loud scream. 

I look around the cold, dark shed. There’s nothing here. The scream comes again, like a mixture between a choking man and an angry animal. What is that? The sounds continue, seeming to get closer and closer. I look back to Josh, but his once soft blue eyes have turned dark again. His body tenses, and he moves away from me. 

“No, no, no, no, no, not them again, leave me alone!” he shouts, and I close the distance, shushing him and telling him to calm down. 

“You don’t own me! You don’t own me!”

“Josh, please” I whisper. He rips away from my grip and starts running for the doors. Crashing into them, he keeps yelling. They both open wide on the impact making slamming sounds when they hit the walls and bounce back a little. I’m about to run out to him when a large skinny creature stands beside him. I stop, stunned at the sight. It’s built like a human skeleton, just larger and wrinkly. The eyes are dark and lifeless, glossy in a gross dripping way. The mouth is giant, long teeth curving on the outside of it. Josh keeps shouting and cursing. 

“No, you don’t get to do it!”

The creature suddenly takes hold of him, grabbing him by the collar of his shirt. Shit shit shit. The monster slams him into the ground, knocking him completely out. I run for the gun, taking it and turning around ready to aim. They’re both gone. I run outside, not hearing anything. 

“Josh!”

“Shut up!” an unfamiliar voice says. I turn around, finding Chris with a crazy-looking old man. 

“What’s going on, are you okay, where’s Josh?” Chris asks, an arm placed on my shoulder for comfort. I don’t know how to answer. 

“I- um, there was this animal…” Another awful scream is heard in the distance and I tense up, shivers running down my spine. 

“Get back to the lodge” the man orders. 

“But Josh-” Chris protests. The man moves closer to him, talking in a low voice. 

“First, the Wendigo, he’ll render you immobile.” Wendigo???

“And then, he strips the skin of your entire body, piece by piece. And then, he keeps you alive and aware and feasts on your organs, one piece at a time” the man continues. 

“So… the lodge then” Chris admits in defeat. 

“Let’s go now, it might still be near.”  

Chris grabs hold of me, urging me to go in between the man and him. He’s got a shotgun, finger already on the trigger. We move a few paces, and I hear cracking and choking-like sounds. 

“Wait, don’t move” the man commands. I instantly stop, holding my breath while looking where I can. I don’t see anything. Chris’s hand is still on the shotgun, and I try to find the trigger on my own gun. 

“Be very quiet”

We stand still for a few seconds, until the man slowly moves forward. We follow slowly, looking around. I hear steps, a gallop like a horse approaching, and the wendigo moves swiftly towards us. 

“Run!”

We both push forward, starting on the path to the lodge. 

“Go, now, now!”

The wendigo jumps in front of us, making Chris and I hop backwards. Fire emerges beside us, and it runs into the forest again. 

“Holy shit, what the fuck!” Chris cries. My ears are on high alert, and I feel my pulse through my throat, beating quicker and harder. 

“We’re right out in the open, we need to get out of here!” the man shouts. The wendigo leaps forward again, and I only see blood as the head of the man falls off his body and onto the ground. My breath hitches, hand going over my mouth. What the fuck is going on. What is happening? 

“Chris” I tug at his sleeve, urging us to run. The wendigo stops, screaming at us. Chris aims the shotgun and shoots it. I grab his arm hard, forcing him with me. As we’re running, I hear it running behind us, catching up easily. We run under a fallen tree, and Chris stops. 

“Chris!” I shout, a few metres away. The wendigo jumps at him, but he shoots it yet again. He turns around following right behind me. A little jump down almost gets me, and I make my way down as carefully but quick as I can. Chris jumps down after me, hurting his foot in the process, but we can’t stop. 

We arrive at the lodge, but Chris grabs my clothing on my back, making me stop. The wendigo is right outside the door, screaming at us. He shoots it again, and it falls back. We try for the door, but it gets up on its feet again. I point my gun at the oil-filled barrels, pulling the trigger. 

“Down!” and I push him on the ground, covering my ears. The wendigo flies past us from the explosion, and I help him up and go for the door. 

“Guys! Open please!”

Ashley opens the door, quick to close it when we’re both inside. 

“What happened?” She looks down, noticing Chris’s sprained ankle. 

“Not here” I urge, signalling for her to help me get Chris further inside. We hear a tug at the door, and that’s enough for all of us to run. We go down the stairs to the basement, and are met with Sam, Emily and Mike. 

“Oh my god, guys. Thank god!” Emily exclaims, running to hug me. 

“What took you so long?” Sam asks Chris. She looks around, noticing some absences. “And where’s Josh? The old man?” 

“He-um…” Chris starts, but he just looks down, not managing to complete his sentence. Ashley grabs hold of him, taking him to a counter and making him lean against the wall. I put the pistol down on the table beside me. 

“That man, he’s dead” I say, Chris letting out a choked cry. “That thing, the wendigo?”

Sam nods, encouraging me to go on. “It took Josh. I was grabbing the gun, but they were gone.” I feel completely empty, tears having been used up for the night, a wave of apathy washing over me. I feel like a robot. Maybe this is what survival mode is, the body going off completely on natural instincts, no time for thinking nor grieving. I’ve grieved too many times tonight already. I won’t believe anything at all unless I see it happen. 

“No, no, no, no” Emily exclaims in needy pointless cries. 

“The flamethrower guy, he was torn apart by the wendigo” Chris explains. I try to get the picture out of my head. 

“Oh god…”

“Alright, are these all the doors?” Mike asks. Sam nods at him. 

“Are you sure?”

“What are you looking for?” 

“Another way out” 

“Mike, I really don’t think that’s a good idea. We should stay put here, until dawn.”

“What happens at dawn?” I ask. 

“Got someone on the radio, they’ll come and rescue us” Emily explains to me. 

“At least we’re safe down here” Sam continues, trying to persuade Mike. 

“Oh, yeah? All wrapped up like a little present with a bow on top, for that thing to tear us apart like it’s christmas morning?” 

“People will come for us… in the morning”

“You don’t sound so sure”

“That’s what’ll happen, right Em?” Emily looks unsure, her confidence leaving her body. 

“Yeah, I mean. Right?”

Mike rolls his eyes, walking fast around like a crazy person. “Well, you can wait, I’m leaving” he says as he walks deeper into the cellar. 

“Mike, there’s no key for the cable-car” Emily adds. Mike turns, a light switching on in his mind. “Josh! He’s gotta have it!” 

I feel my body light up by the mention of his name, but only for a second before remembering the last time I saw him. The time I didn’t do anything to save him. 

“One of his dirty little tricks, so we couldn’t get down the mountain while he orchestrated his whole thing” 

“Great, great!” Sam says disapprovingly, arms thrown in the air. 

“If that fucking thing got a hold of Josh… then… we shit out of luck.” My blood boils at the disrespect. 

“He’s still a person, Mike. Try to have some sympathy for someone being ripped apart by a fucking monster”

“That’s not what I meant, I was thinking about us here, those of us who are still alive” 

“Well, can’t you understand that he’s dead? What if I were to babble about how fucking inconvenient is was for me that Jessica was ripped apart”

“Hey, shut it!”

“No, you need to fucking think before you talk!” I yell back. 

“Both of you, lower your voices!” Sam scolds, and I hum a little sorry back to her. I walk to the other side of the room, arms crossed, eye contact with Mike. He looks defeated. I didn’t mean to touch that nerve, I’m truly sorry about Jessica, but it doesn’t hurt for him to think a little. Chris is standing in the other corner, still looking down and shaking. Emily breaks the silence. 

“It might be possible”

“What’s possible?”

“It may have taken him down to the mine” 

“What?”

“I saw some horrible stuff down there, I think it’s where that thing lives…” She stops, grabbing hold of a dark book she found. 

“Hey” Chris whispers, I look over at him. 

“Josh might not be dead, remember. The wendigo keeps its prey alive, so he might still be” 

My mind clears a bit, relief coming over me. 

“I’m going down there” Mike says. “I’m going down in that fucking monster’s bedroom and getting both Josh and the key” he continues, looking over at me. I give him an appreciative smile and mouth ‘Thank you’. 

“After that, I’m going to get us all the fuck out of here” 

The others are busy looking over the things laying out on the counter, not paying attention to his hero-speech. 

“Em, what is all that?” Sam asks. 

“Stuff from that guy’s bag”

“Is that a map?”

“That guy was prepared for anything” 

“Not quite”

“What is this place?” 

“I was down there, it was horrible” Mike explains. “There had been a cave-in, miners got trapped and like some of them survived. They got medical help and stuff at the Sanatorium, but there was also so much stuff. Like a bloodied torture chair and-”

“Hey, Michael, I would rather figure out how we’re gonna get the fuck out of here please?” Emily interrupts. 

“I’m just saying, it’s weird how much crazy shit’s gone on up here…” 

“What’s weird is that there’s a tunnel leading from the lodge to the Sanatorium, see?”

“That’s how I got back here” 

“I saw this when I was down there” she points to the nest. “That’s where it lives” 

Ashley gets a scared look on her face. “Em?” she says in a shaky voice. “Em, what is that?” 

“Huh?”

“What is that?”

Emily turns around, and for the first time, I notice a large, bloody wound on her shoulder. I uncross my arms, taking a step towards her to look closer. Ashley moves back, a panic response on her part, and Mike does the same. 

“Ash…”

“Em, oh my god, oh my god, no, no, no” Ashley chants to herself. 

“It’s nothing, it just bit me and-” 

“It bit you? What bit you?”

“The, uh, the wendigo”

“It what?” Mike chimes in. 

“It’s nothing, really, it’s not a big deal, it doesn’t even hurt anymore”

I look closer, taking her arm and turning her towards me. “Are you okay?” 

“Yes I’m okay, and it doesn’t hurt, it’s not that bad” 

“Em” Mike says firmly. “If that thing bit you…”

“I know what you’re thinking, and I’m fine” she explains, taking a step towards him. He takes a step back, and I can see the hurt in her eyes. 

“Are you?” “Yes!”

“Emily, at least let us check it out” Sam offers. 

“Emily, if the wendigo bit you, you could turn into one…”

“Oh that’s ridiculous!” Sam says. 

“Is that how it works?” I ask. 

“The man. He said it was from eating each other, remember? He said that!” 

“So if it bit her?” I ask. 

“Then she’s going to become one of them, and then she’s going to turn on us” Ashley finishes, freaking out and moving to the other side of the room. 

“You can’t be down here with us” Mike says, and Sam, Emily and I look at him in shock. 

“What?”

“Mike” I try, but Emily’s talking over me. 

“Are you kidding me?”

“You’ve got to go, you’re putting us all in danger” 

“Like hell I am!”

“Emily! You can’t stay here”

“Guys, we don’t know if it works like that” I interrupt. 

“Yeah, maybe it’s just a bite” Sam adds. 

“I’ve seen what these fuckers can do…” Chris starts. I think back to the man in the forest, his head slicing right off, body falling to the ground. “And I don’t want to see it again” I look down, unsure of what to do. What if it works that way? What if Emily turns into one of them and kills us all. 

“What is this? Guys, what are you doing?” Emily cries out, voice cracked and scared. 

“Door’s right here” Mike points. “I am letting you do this voluntarily”

“Oh no! You’re just trying to make yourself feel better about sending me to my death since you know there’s a wendigo up there ready to rip me to pieces.”

“Oh my god, will you just go?” Ashley screams in her face. “Go, get out of here!” 

Mike walks up to the table, grabbing the gun and pointing it towards Emily. 

“Woah, Mike!” I warn. “You’re not gonna shoot her” 

“Mike, put it down” Sam pleads, grabbing his arm. He shoves her away. 

“You’re gonna shoot me? Mike, me?” Emily asks, tears welling up in her eyes. 

“This is the safe-room Em” 

Emily creeps up on the bench, arms around her legs, holding herself. 

“Please”

“It’s not safe as long as you’re in it, not for us”

She starts crying, and I see Sam turning away, not bearing the sight. 

“Mike!” I try again. 

“Please don’t, please” she pleads between sobs. “Don’t do this” 

“I’m really sorry”

He stands still for a couple of seconds, before lowering the gun. “I can’t do this” he exclaims. 

“Oh my god…” Emily breathes out. 

“You did the right thing” Sam comments. 

“I hope you did” Ashley adds, still keeping a distance. Mike’s still walking to and fro in the room. 

“Maybe… for now” he says, cursing at himself. He points at her. 

“Keep an eye on her, and if you see anything weird, you know what to do” 

“Yeah”

“No one leaves, okay? It’s not safe out there. I’ll be back soon” he says as he makes his was deeper into the cellar and down the tunnels. As the door closes, Emily lets out another breath and puts her legs down. I run over to her, hugging her as she silently cries in the crook of my neck. Everyone is silent while Ashley walks through the room, again noticing the black notebook. She picks it up and starts reading. 

Emily quickly composes herself, drying the last tears and signals for me to give her a little space. I comply, moving away. 

“This says that since wendigos are mutated from humans, when they hunt us they know how to perfectly mimic their prey” 

“So, they can make human sounds? Sounds like us?” I ask, getting shivers down my spine. She doesn’t elaborate, and continues reading. 

“Oh, no, no, no, no” she starts repeating. 

“What?”

“It says that the bites are not infectious.”

“What?” Emily exclaims. I walk up to Ashley, and she hands me the book. 

“The bite doesn’t do anything” I explain. “Emily, you’re gonna be fine” 

“It says that?” 

“You’re safe, you’re not changing or dying from this. You’re gonna be fine” I repeat. 

“Fine? Mike almost shot me, is that fine?” 

“He didn’t shoot you-” Sam says in a low voice, trying to remind her of her volume. 

“And this bitch almost let him!” she points at Ashley, walking towards her. 

“That’s not fair” I add. “She was scared, and based on the little information we had, there seemed like a fairly possible chance” 

“I’m the one who’s scared” she spits back. 

“I’m sorry Emily, I’m so, so, so sorry” Ashley pleads. “I didn’t know what was going to happen, none of us did”

“There’s no excuse, there’s no excuse for this!” 

“Please, just try to understand Emily”

“Understand the palm of my hand, Bitch” she says, before slapping Ashley in the face.  Ashley holds her hand to her cheek, continues apologising and retreating into the corner. Chris is still silent, not having raised his head once since the pistol-episode. I look at him for a while, making sure he’s still present. 

“Shit” Sam exclaims. 

“What?” I ask. 

“Shit, shit, shit. We’ve got to get to Mike, like now!” 

She starts walking, and I look at the others, confused. We follow, and I make sure Chris is still with us. Luckily, Ashley’s walking beside him, helping him keep up as we move further down the dark halls.

[dearanakin]

trust you | anakin skywalker: episode IV

Warning: mentions of grieving, injury, cursing

Word count: 3k

Previous chapter | Read on Wattpad

*

Anakin:

4 years earlier

I was standing right in front of his lifeless body. His head right next to it. My trembling hands were both holding crossed lightsabers; his and mine. I've been wanting to kill him since the day that he almost left me to die after Padmé gave birth to Luke.

Holding back the warm tears that were threatening to fall, I felt my breathing become shallow and the air felt condensed. Now I was facing Palpatine dead, but the feeling of relief didn't hit me. That feeling I was longing for, for almost three years, wasn't there.

All I sensed was a heaviness in my chest. For all I know, this is what I wanted. I didn't have a plan to escape his ship, so I had to be quick before the imperial army came after me. I was on a mission all by myself, it was something I wanted to do alone.

No one else would be there for me anyway, not even Obi-Wan. But I haven’t been in contact with him ever since Padmé died. That was when he decided he didn't want to go along with my idea, the one that was supposed to make me feel better.

It was two losses at once. Obviously, losing her was the most traumatic event in my life. But then right after that, what happened between me and Obi-Wan after spending years on his side left a hole in my heart.

And it was never healed. For a while, after that, I would sense his grief even from a long distance. But then he shut that down for me. I haven't felt his presence or sensed his emotions in a long time, and it was probably for the best.

I let go of Palpatine's lightsaber and kept a tight grip on mine. I took a few steps back, calculating what route I should take to exit the ship. By now, the army is most likely aware of what happened. The loud sirens went on and I could hear a lot of shuffling from afar.

My boots walked heavily across the room, and for the first time I noticed how my knees were wobbling. "Damn it", I mutter under my breath.

The adrenaline kept my mind balanced, but for some reason my body didn't want to collaborate. I forced myself out of the door, facing the fresh air that roamed through the corridor. There were soldiers in formation already, waiting for something to happen.

I was quick to deviate the blasts from the pistols with my lightsaber, using my metal hand for leverage as well. There were many doors around me, but I didn't risk my chances getting in.

They trapped me when I was getting closer to the hangar. I guess my anger was at its highest level, because I felt myself shoving all of them back with my Force and knocking them down.

I hurried to the first ship I laid my eyes on and hopped on it, turning on the gears. I flew out of there in a matter of seconds.

When all the adrenaline wore out, I started to feel numb and it felt like I was going to pass out. I took deep breaths and tried to stretch my body in order to keep myself awake.

Bringing my hands to my eyes, I noticed how hard they were shaking. Usually I don't feel the sensitivity on the robotic limb, but my flesh fingertips were tingling and then it hit me.

"Shit", I breathed in dread. I pulled the engine on autopilot and hoped for the best.

I was having a panic attack.

I also didn't have R2-D2 to help me fly back to Coruscant. Much to my dislike, I was inside a small ship with the smallest airflow.

I woke up disoriented, my mouth was dry and my head throbbing in pain. I had no idea how I was still roaming around outer space. I looked at my hands, noticing they were steady, as well as my fingertips that weren't numb anymore.

I took a deep breath and managed the engine to finally go back home. I lost track of time there.

I landed on the hangar and rushed to finally see Luke. He was starting to walk and could speak a few words completely already. I couldn't handle the thought of leaving him for more than I intended to.

Arriving at the Jedi Temple, I walked in my dormitory expectantly looking for him. He was sitting on the floor with one of the nursery Droids playing with him, while C-3PO watched out the window.

The three of them noticed my presence and glanced at me. I walked toward the child and pulled him in a tight hug.

"No need to worry anymore, son. Dad is here".

-

It's been a long way since then. Now I have to be more careful around Luke, and I need to reassure him a lot of things. When I go on missions, he gets worried a lot even though he doesn't feel the anxiety of what could happen.

I stand my ground each time, promising myself I always get back safe and alive. One of these days, I swear I'm going to go into cardiac arrest because of that feeling.

When I got back to my loft after training, I found him nuzzled into my pillow on my bed. R2-D2 scanning the room for further threats. Having a kid these days isn't easy anymore. After what happened four years ago, they kept running after me, looking everywhere.

It took them a while to give up on it, but I always had this feeling in the back of my head that they were always one step ahead, ready to attack. And I never feared for my life, I feared for Luke's. Cal insisted I should recruit him to become a Jedi.

It didn't cross my mind, because I didn't want him to become something I didn't expect him to. I didn't want him to become someone like me. I know how it is inside my head. I want to kill people all the time, the vengeful feeling that doesn't ease. My body is always on alert, I can't trust people anymore.

My conscience never let me step into the dark side, thinking of Luke. If it wasn't for him, I might as well have done that right after I lost Padmé. Wouldn't even have second guessed it for the matter.

In the shower, I pondered about that; like I used to do every night before sleep. Was it really worth it? Was it going to make me feel at peace? It was a hard decision. I leaned my forehead against the tile and inhaled sharply. If only I could see the future, I would've made a decision by now.

The next day I was feeling better, even though the painkillers were masking most of the pain. I dropped my boy off to his classes and headed to the tech room, still in need of having a conversation with (Y/N).

3PO asked me to forget it and let that go, telling me I should be more patient. See, I had an issue with letting things go, and I know it's my biggest flaw. But I just couldn't. I had a few conversations with Cal before and he told me doing therapy would help me a lot. Or even, meet Yoda a few times to help me get through those issues.

But I never did, never thought I should anyway. My stubborn ass wins over my conscience all the time.

I entered the room looking for her and saw her standing in front of an opened drawer. She looked distracted while holding what seemed like a lightsaber grip. My eyes scanned the piece slowly, and then I realized something.

It was Obi-Wan's. My stomach dropped and my throat tightened immediately. It was triggering to think about it, to think about him. To remember him even from the slightest piece of an object. I didn't notice when she turned to face me, her face becoming pale. She still had the piece between her small fingers.

I looked between the grip and her hesitant eyes for a few seconds and cleared my throat. "That's- It is Obi-Wan's?", I heard myself asking in a whisper.

She glanced at it and stared back at me. It was hard to describe her emotions, but it felt like she was probably just as confused. "Y-yes. They found it lying around after he left Coruscant".

I nodded. It couldn't have been long after our last encounter. He left Coruscant right after that, but I wonder whatever happened to the entire lightsaber. I couldn't breathe but didn't want to make it seem evident, so I took a long inhale and murmured "ok".

It took me a few seconds to snap back to reality, watching as she put the grip back in the drawer and closed it. I almost forgot why I was there in the first place.

When I noticed Luke's skyhopper on her table, I rolled my eyes and grimaced. Now there were two things I wanted to talk about with her. I huffed behind her, making her snap her eyes at me.

"What is my son's toy doing on your table? How many times do I have to make myself clear?", I try to be civil and not scare her right off.

(Y/N) glanced between the toy and me, her mouth agape while trying to find words. "They had to leave and asked me to fix it. But I know how you strictly made sure you didn't want me to".

She let her guard up the entire time, making sure she was standing a few feet away from me. I crossed my arms in front of my chest and raised my chin in superiority.

"Good thing, because I don't want you to get a finger near anything related to me or my boy anymore". My voice came out as a snarl, her body language shifted.

I took a step forward and she took a step back. "And while we're at it. Let me tell you something about another thing. This shit that happened to me was your fault".

(Y/N) shook her head and hit her back on the counter behind her. "I'm sorry, I- We did everything we could. The wires were almost molten".

I look down and chuckle in disbelief. You could tell she was beginning to feel scared of me. "No, you see - that's plain bullshit. Because I know how you are all very skilled and when we ask for a deadline, we expect it on time".

I closed the small gap between us, towering over her while my eyes intimidated her. She was reluctant to look back at me, so I made sure she did. I gripped her jawline forcefully and pulled her head up. "Look at me when I talk to you", I rasped.

"You know what happened because of your fucking incompetence. I could've died there, and then what? My son doesn't have a mother, you want him to become an orphan?".

My robotic fingers dug into her cheekbones, she was flinching really hard under my touch.

(Y/N) started to cry and I thought it was pathetic. She has been working around for ages, she should've known I don't have an easy temper at all.

She shut her eyes tightly and whimpered, my fingertips leaving marks on her skin. "I'm really sorry, Master Skywalker. I didn't mean to, I didn't mean to".

I was still towering over her, my forehead barely touching hers when I felt both of her hands grip around my metal wrist. "But you did anyway!".

My breathing was uneven, I felt a sudden headrush.

It was the trigger. Just the thought of Obi-Wan made me feel uneasy.

"Look at me!", It took her by surprise how loud my voice came out and it startled her. She immediately looked me in the eye and I pointed a flesh finger at her. "This is the last time I warn you. Stay the fuck away from me and my son".

Suddenly I heard the door burst and felt Cal's presence. "Hey, Skywalker! What the hell, man?", He sprinted to where we were standing and gripped my arms, pulling me away from her.

I was still staring at her dead. My bloodshot eyes were burning her skin from the eye contact as I watched her move her feet away from me. (Y/N) left the room within seconds.

I looked over Cal and closed my hands into fists. This always feels like someone is testing me. I could just lift my hand and punch him in the face, but I held back the urging.

"What was that?", His scowling tone echoed through the room. He pointed his finger at me, his nose was flaring in anger as well. "Don't ever touch her again or I'll take it to the Council".

Fuck the Council, for God's sake. I'm a fucking Master, not an apprentice anymore. If anything, I could own them if I wanted to.

I watched as he turned on his back and marched out the door, leaving me in a raging state. Next thing I knew, I was flipping a table across the place watching it break into several pieces.

Dude comes in thinking he was a knight in shining armor, what a lame character. I'm pretty sure this close friendship of theirs means something else for him but that didn't interest me anyway.

I let myself out and took my time to simmer down until the meeting happens. This time we were going to see General Grievous and I wasn't very pleased with the idea, but I carried on with it anyway.

When we all sat down on the desk, I shared the news with the others. They still had no idea what the new mission was about.

"General Grievous? That scumbag?", The man from across the table asks in surprise.

Did I stutter?

"Yes. We need to do some agreements that became pending", I nod. This wasn't exactly fun, I have a very strong desire to kill him as well.

Cal was always one giving ideas and usually plans escaping routes. This time he was just sitting in his chair with his arms crossed. His forehead was wrinkly and he had a pissed look.

He wouldn't dare to look at me and I hated him at this moment as well. So I cleared my throat and spoke up again.

"We're gonna need a few people back outside his trade federation cruiser and watch out. I was thinking of bringing Artoo as well" They all seemed to agree with the idea. The red head shuffled in his seat, not saying a word.

I try to disguise the disappointment but I expected this reaction after what happened earlier. I had to push him to the limit, because one way or another I needed him.

"Anything in mind, General Kestis?" I ask loud enough for him to shoot his head up and look at me. Still waiting for a response, I raise an eyebrow.

"No, you're leading the assignment, General Skywalker" He says in a snide tone. "I'm sure you're going to nail it".

Maybe the other men noticed his different demeanor, because I could sense they were looking at each other in complete confusion.

He would never not speak up. He liked to give advice and think through the whole situation, usually we would always have a plan B if needed.

I still wasn't satisfied, so I went through with it anyway. "Are you sure? You always have advice for us".

The others stared at him, watching as Cal stood still in the same position. He shook his head and twitched his lips in denial. I'm gonna fucking choke him.

"Not this time. I guess you boys have brilliant ideas though" He looked back at them and gave them the most fake smile I've ever seen.

Cal is all smiles and hugs, but I know when he's being sarcastic.

I didn't have anything else in mind. I didn't want to push it harder, I know I was losing my temper and it was a waste of time in all honesty.

I decided to ask someone else about strategies and we ended up spending the entire afternoon discussing them. My blood boiling every time I looked at the knight in shining armor watching as he stared blankly at all of us.

My wish this moment was to dismiss him and ask him to take his ass out of his face.

This is going to be a difficult mission and I was dreading the worst already.

I call out to Cal while looking through the papers, the pen still wrapped around my fingers. I feel him interrupting his tracks and freezing on his spot turning on his heels. He doesn’t say a word, waiting for me to speak again.

"Do you have anything to say now they're all gone?" I ask, eyes still focused on the desk.

I hear him sigh and hold his hips with both hands. "No, Skywalker. I already made that sure".

For the first time after a few minutes, I raise my head and give him a sarcastic smile without showing my teeth. He didn't seem fazed at all. I get up from my chair and walk toward him, still holding my pen, my hands behind my back.

"Look, we both know you're a very dedicated man and we also both know you don't wanna fuck this job up" I tilt my head to the side and lower my eyebrows.

He still didn't feel intimidated. That was a good thing, after all. I showed how he could stand up for himself, even though I'm the most insufferable person hanging around.

He gives me a smirk and closes his arms against his chest, raising his chin up. "Ah, when have I ever fucked something up, Master?".

Cal almost never fires back like this, but we weren't on good terms.

He reaches his hand upon my shoulder and gives it a tight squeeze, gripping my shoulder blade. "I can't tell you how much I'm willing to help on this mission. But not because of you. Right now, I wish I could just punch your annoying face".

He doesn't give me time to respond, as he shoves me back in a light push and leaves the room.

I heard the pen between my fingers crack. 

@jackie-on-the-loose @adorbzliz @himesuedi @kingdomhate @himesuedi @cl0esblogg

[eggtartz]

✧ 28th October ✧

Konig // Too Small (f! girlfriend reader)

kinktober masterlist

warnings : car sex, for reference konig is almost 7ft tall or to be precise 6'10 which is roughly about 208 cm

a small car parked near the military's base as Konig smiled at the sight of the silver-blueish car. he saw your small figure from afar and took his bags, trying not to run to your direction and act cool when he's feeling giddy like a teenager again. "Schatz!" he smiled as you run towards him and lunged on him, hugging his body that you have missed this past six months. "Konig.. welcome home.." you said, despite not at home yet. however to Konig, you are home so yeah.

he's at home now.

"oh i missed you so much" you pecked his masks all over as his eyes squinted, indicating he's smiling "you're making me embarrassed now" he said as you smiled "why? don't want your comrades to see their colonel are getting his kisses?" you said again, kissing him again. Konig had to carry you inside the car because you had no intention of stopping your affection for him.

he placed his bags inside the trunk and opened the driver's seat as you whined "Schatz, we're gonna be together just a bit more alright? you gotta drive" he said as you pouted. he closed the door gently and had to bend down to accommodate his height in the car.

you revved the car and started driving it while Konig was busy adjusting the seat "so, any plans for today?" his German accent slip through his words. "just wanting to spend the day with you, I guess?" you said, shrugging your shoulders "I've been waiting this day for six months, no way I'm doing something that doesn't involve you" you said again as Konig squeezed your thigh with affection.

Konig knew you're an eager one but not this eager as you straddled his lap as soon as you arrived at the parkway of your apartment. you kissed him as he got into a frenzy and arousal, cupping your butt with his hands as he removed his sniper mask. he found your sensitive spot right away as you moaned "oh.. you remembered" you said between moans. he smiled against your skin "how can i ever forget?"

with big hands he easily tossed you to the behind seat causing the car to momentarily shake as he also stepped behind. you giggle, taking off your blouse as he took off his casual shirt too. he smirked, ripping off his pants as he kissed you again. hungry for more, your hands grabbed his hair and gripped it. it's been too long, too many distances, too many facetimes and too many dirty pictures. none of them will compare to being skin to skin with your boyfriend.

he ravaged your left tit leaving you a moaning mess. "can't even wait to get inside. you filthy one" he teased, slapping the other tit. you stiffened and panted "Konig.. do something about my wet pussy pleaseeeee, it's been so long without you.. it's been too lonely.." you begged, sweet to his ears.

"precious.. don't worry, i'll take care of you" he smirked, slowly rubbing your pussy that was indeed already wet. he took off his boxers, yanking your panties off in the process. "i missed you so much" he buried his head over your cunt, sniffing it and giving licks as his hands are jerking off his dick. "it misses you too" you said, lustful.

"gives it what it wants, will you Konig?" you said again, acting like an enticing woman he knows you are. he smiled at himself and tapped the head of his cock againts your moist pussy. he adjusts his body again, the car shaking. he holds your legs up on the headrest as he slowly inserted inside.

"oh fuck!" your hands pressed on the window for stability as you felt your pussy being spread wide open by his cock, the longing stretch that only he could achieve. Konig stilled himself for a moment, adjusting his legs as he starts fucking you. the car started to shake again as he went on a moderate pace where your tits are bouncing along with your sweet whimpers. "you're still tight as ever.. guess it hasn't been properly stretched, huh?" he scoffed, impaling into your oozing pussy. you were speechless, quiet moans and squeaks coming out as he picked up his pace.

"damn it.. need a bigger car.. so i could fuck you properly!" he grunted, grabbing your tits as he went rough on your poor pussy. "s-sorry.. saved some money to nngh! planning to buy a new one!" you whimpered between words as his pace went rough and deep, venturing into parts of your insides that you yourself didn't know existed. "really? i got some savings too, let's buy a bigger one yeah? we could do more of this if you want to" he smiled and bent over to capture your lips on a kiss. it was tender, erotic and sweet. his kiss was gentle but his thrusts were not as he pulled out just in time, spurting all over your stomach.

you rested your head while panting as he adjusted his position again "alright.. round two? we have to do it in the house though, my back hurts" he said as you chuckled.

[bteezxyewriter12]

Gossip

Pairing- Mingi x Named Reader

Word count- 7.8k

Includes- Rumors, pussy eating, cum eating, missionary, cock riding, multiple orgasms, fluff

Tag List- @mingtina @jaxminnie @yeosayang @delightfulmoonbanana @tannie13 @y00nzin0 @marsstarxhwa

@yeosxxx @seokwoosmole @jjongsbebe @wisejudgedragonhairdo @meowmeowminnie @woo-stars @borntowalkaway @usagionthered @san-realblkwife @seonghwasstar @jejeyeppeo @soulseobi05 @kpop-bambi @prayerofthehaim @realisticnotes @pinkies-things @insomniacatiny @stephy-nicole13

Masterlists- check out for more fics

📝Masterlists 📝ATEEZ Masterlist 📝Mingi Masterlist

Mingi POV

As I pass another group of female stylists on my way to the makeup artist who called me, I notice them look at me, whisper to each other and laugh so loudly

What the fuck?

This has been happening all day

Female staff laughing when I pass or whispering as soon as they see me

Some look me up and down then giggle while others give me a pitying look after

I don't know what the fuck is going on

Neither do the guys and they're saying it's not happening with them

It's just me

I get to Joanne, plopping down in the make up chair

"What's with the face?", she asks, as she tilts my head back, immediately starting on my foundation

"Something's going on"

"Like what?", she asks

"I don't know"

She snorts, "Cryptic much?"

I crack a smile at her sass

She's really cool and I've become friends with her

I like her "no nonsense tell it like it is" attitude

She doesn't sugar coat things and especially not with me or the guys

Which a lot of the staff do because they don't want to upset us

It's not that she doesn't care if we're upset but she says it's better to know the truth about stuff than believe the lies

I agree

Apparently I'm not the only one as the guys all like her and have formed their own friendships with her

She's really the only staff member we talk to about real shit

I trust her advice and judgement

"Wanna tell me what's going on without acting like a cryptic super villain in a lame comic?"

Rolling my eyes, I tell her what's been happening all day

Just as I finish, two makeup artists pass us and they give me a look, then whisper and laugh as they walk away

"See?", I say

"Ah. Yeah", she nods, spreading concealer under my eyes

"Do you know what that's about?"

"Yup", she answers, then says no more

I wait until she sweeps powder all over my face to confront her

"Well what's it about?"

"Close your eyes"

"Joanne!", I protest

"Just close your eyes Mingi. I'll tell you while I do your eye makeup"

I glare but then close my eyes

"Well?", I prompt

I feel a makeup brush run over my right eye as she talks, "Well there's some trash talk about you going around"

Trash talk?

What trash talk?

I haven't done anything to warrant trash talking

I don't talk to most of the staff here besides pleasantries and being polite

"And?"

She sighs, "Well people are saying you suck in bed. And you have a small dick"

"What?", I yell, my eyes snapping open

"Mingi! You're gonna mess up the make up and I'll be very upset if I have to do it all over again"

Fuck the makeup

People are talking about my dick and I want to know why

Or how they even came up with the idea that's it's small

Or that I'm terrible in bed

"How? What? Why? How?", I demand

She rolls her eyes again, "It's your own damn fault"

How?

How is this my fault?

"It's because of Bong-Cha", she replies, "You fucked her and never called her back. Never spoke to her again. Never sorted out if it was just a one night thing or not"

"So because I don't call she spreads rumors about me?"

She shrugs like it's no big deal, "She liked you Mingi. I guess she thought that night meant more. And when you went back to ignoring her, she got pissed"

So she spreads lies?

I slept with her once, a few weeks ago

It was on a whim

I was feeling horny after a performance and she was there

She was willing and I just did it

And I didn't go back to ignoring her

She's a stylist that is normally assigned to Yeosang and Jongho

I don't deal with her directly, just my stylists

I've said hi to her in passing since we slept together

She never looked like she was pissed at me

"She should have come and spoken to me instead of telling her friends lies about me"

"Yeah you're right", she agrees, "Close your eyes"

I do it instead of arguing

"What do I do?"

"Ignore it", she answers simply

"I can't ignore it!"

"Why not?"

"Because my dick isn't small!", I exclaim

I can't let that fucking go

I don't want people thinking that about me

And the fact that it's a lie and she took the immature route pisses me the fuck off

"Yeah I don't need to know about your dick ok?"

"Joanne!"

"Jesus, what?"

"I need to do something"

"Like what Mingi? What can you possibly do? You can't tell her to say it's a lie"

"Why not?", I ask, opening my eyes to look at her

That sounds like a good idea

Get her to take it back

"One because she won't admit she lied to her friends for a stupid reason. And two, no one would believe her anyway. They'd think that you forced her to say your dick isn't small", she says, "Just let it go"

"I cannot let it go", I growl

"Oh my god, stop with the guy shit with the massive protection over your reproductive organ! Christ, it's not the most important thing in the world"

"Right, because you'd want a rumor spread that your pussy is loose? Or that it's gross or dirty? Or that you don't know how to fuck?"

She snorts, "I don't give a fuck what anyone thinks about my pussy or my fucking skills. I only care what the person I'm seeing thinks. And since I'm currently single, I couldn't give less of a rat's ass"

I know she's telling the truth about that

She really doesn't care what people think of her

It sounds so freeing

I wish I was like that but unfortunately I'm not

"Well that's you. I don't want rumors spread about me. About anything"

"Ok genius, what are you gonna do about it then?"

I don't fucking know

I have to think

"Close your eyes", she repeats and I sigh, doing it

As she adds more eye shadow, I rack my brain for something I could do to dispel this stupid rumor

And I do come up with something

It's stupid but it could work

"I could fuck another staff member", I think out loud, "That way that girl will know Bong-Cha is lying and set the record straight"

"That is a very bad idea", she answers

"No it's not", I say, defending the stupid idea

"Oh my god, yes it is! You're gonna sleep with someone just so they can spread it around that you have a big dick? And that you're good in bed? What if they decided to keep up the lie? Or what if they don't say anything at all? And who are you gonna get to sleep with you? They all think you have a small dick"

Yeah ok, I didn't think that far ahead

But apparently girls like to gossip so I bet that whoever I fuck will tell everyone my dick is big

I just gotta figure out who I can do this with

"There has to be someone", I mutter, thinking

"Yeah good luck with that"

I go through the list of staff members in my head, sorting them into no and maybes of who'd give it a shot to sleep with me

There's no definite yes' yet

As I go through the list, I get to one person and it's a yes

It's perfect actually

"I got it!", I yell, snapping my eyes open

"Mingi!", she shrieks, pulling the eyeliner from my eye, fuming, "Are you fucking crazy? Don't fucking open your eye like that! I could of stabbed you in the eye"

"Dramatic much?", I quip, raising my eyebrow

"We'll see how fucking dramatic I'm being when you're holding your eye, crying from the pain!"

"Alright I'm sorry!", I apologize, "I just got carried away"

She grumbles something under her breath and I ask her what she said

"Nothing. What do you want to say? I know you won't let me continue with the makeup until you tell me"

"I know who I can sleep with"

She sighs, "Who?"

"You"

"Excuse the fuck outta me?", she snaps

"No it's actually perfect", I tell her

"No it's actually not. I'm not a whore. I don't sleep with just anyone"

"C'mon Jo, I know you're not a whore. I don't want you to think that I think of you like that. I don't"

"Well that's a relief", she says sarcastically

"Look, what I'm suggesting, it'll actually work", I say, hurrying to explain, "You don't give a fuck about the rumor. I think everyone can see that. They know your personality, they know you're brutally honest. They know you have no stake in this. So they'll believe you when you refute the rumor"

She glares at me, her arms crossed over her chest, "No"

"C'mon! I'll make it good, I promise. I'm actually good in bed. That was a huge fucking lie"

I know I've good

I've heard that many times and have gotten no complaints so far so I know it's true

"Mingi, I just...no", she shakes her head, making my hopes fall, "I don't even fuck on the first three dates and I'm supposed to sleep with you? My friend?"

"Well yeah", I nod, "It's just a one time thing. You know it. I know it. There's a reason why we're doing it. Nothing's gonna change. We'll still be friends"

She bites her lip, looking hesitant, "I don't know Mingi"

"Please? It'll be fun. It's just a one night stand between friends"

She avoids my eyes, looking down at the floor

After a minute of silence, she says, "Yeah ok. Fine. Once"

"Yeah?", I repeat, hoping I didn't mishear

"Yes", she grits out

"Great!", I smile widely, "Tonight?"

"Jesus Christ, really?", she exclaims, "You move fucking fast, you know that?"

"Yeah well, just want the rumors to be over", I remind her

"Yeah well, Jesus"

"So tonight?", I repeat

"Yeah fine, tonight"

"Ok. Come to the dorm tonight"

"The dorm?", she says, raising an eyebrow, "With all the guys there?"

"Yeah it's fine. I have my own room and they have noise cancelling head phones"

"Uh...what's wrong with my apartment?", she says, looking a little uneasy

I shake my head, "Can't be seen there. If anyone sees me going in or out of your apartment the media will have a field day"

"Oh right", she mumbles, "Yeah ok. I'll come to the dorm"

"Great"

"Yeah great", she repeats, "Can I finish your makeup without interruptions now?"

"Yup", I smile, closing my eyes

"Unfuckingbelieveable"

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

"I'm here", the text message reads

"Coming", I answer, then get up from my bed

Opening the front door, she stands there, looking hesitant

"Who's here?", Yeosang yells

"Jo?", Hongjoong asks

I turn around to find all of them being nosey and staring at her in shock

"What uh...what are you doing here?", Seonghwa asks

"She's here for me", I answer

"You?", Yunho gapes

I roll my eyes, "Yeah me"

Turning back to her, I take her hand, sparks running up my arm

What the fuck?

Ignoring it, I tug her gently inside, closing the door

"C'mon", I tell her, leading her to my room

Looking back at the guys gaping faces, I smirk, "Use your headphones"

"Oh my god", San squeals

I pull her into my room before she can hear anymore of San and Wooyoung's big mouth

Closing my door, I lock it because I don't trust those two buffoons

They'd come in here unannounced just to embarrass us

And she's doing this for me, I don't want her to be embarrassed

"You could put your stuff there", I tell her, pointing to my computer desk

"Oh, ok", she says, putting her bag on the desk, then taking her sneakers off and setting them under the desk, "Sorry about the sneakers. You kinda dragged me right in, I didn't have time to take my shoes off"

"No big deal", I answer, plopping on my bed

I thought I'd be nervous but now that she's here I'm more excited than anything

To say she's gorgeous is an understatement

She's stunning with her long hair, her bright eyes, cute nose, kissable lips and small body

She's standing nervously by my desk and I want her here next to me right now

"Come here", I call, watching her slowly move towards my bed

She sits at the edge, nervousness falling off her

"Don't worry Jo", I tell her softly, taking her hand and pulling her to me, "It's just me"

Leaning down, I press my lips to hers, kissing her

The second our lips touch, sparks fly around my body, every one of my nerves lighting up, heat flooding every inch of my skin

I don't know what the hell this is or why I'm feeling this but I fucking like it

Getting my arm around her, I pull her right against me, kissing her harder, my tongue playing with hers

Her arms move around my neck as she kisses me and fuck me it feels so good

I lay down, taking her with me, her body curled into mine as she lays in my arms

As we kiss, our tongues playing against each others, her fingers slowly move into the back of my hair, tugging slightly and fuck, I really like it

Guess I'm into hair pulling

Her other hand slides under the sleeve of my tshirt, gripping my upper arm hard

Honestly I like that too

No one has really done that or grabbed me there

Normally by now we'd have our clothes off and be fucking already

With her it's different

Yeah she's small and kinda dainty but for some reason I don't want to go hard yet

I like this soft making out, touching and exploring each other's bodies

It feels nice, it feels like more than a quick fuck

I get lost in kissing her, moving my hand under her tank top, touching her soft skin

Her skin trembles against my fingers as I slide them slowly up her back and I fucking like that a lot

Moving my lips from hers, I press kisses to her neck, gliding my hand from her back to her stomach, slowly trailing up her body

The soft moans from her mouth are surprisingly beautiful and turning me on

Sliding my lips down to her chest, I lavish kisses all over her, pulling my hand from under her tank top to pull the neckline of it lower

Her hand moves from my arm to under my shirt, her hand feeling so small, her cold fingers a shock to my skin

It feels good and I moan into the top of her boob I'm currently kissing

Pulling her tank top lower, I hook into her bra, popping her boob out, licking along her hard nipple softly, my cock completely hard

She groans, her hand finding it's way into my hair, tugging softly

I really like that and it sends shivers down my spine

Wrapping my mouth around her nipple, I suck once, her body arching into mine as she moans out so softly, "Mingi"

That sends shocks through my body, the way she said my name so fucking sensually, blowing my mind

And I know, I'd do anything to hear it again

Moving off her nipple, I slide her tank top up and off her body, her bra following

Looking down at her, I'm awed at how perfect she is

She is exactly what I'd go for in a girl, looks and body wise

I squeeze her boobs softly, my eyes on her face as I say, "So pretty aegi"

Her cheeks turn pink as she shyly looks at me and I'm shocked she's being like this

Normally she's loud, in your face, not taking shit from anyone, cursing up a storm

I've never heard her be so quiet

Her hands slide up my arms slowly, until they wrap around my neck and it feels so right, it's throwing me off

She sits up a little, her lips against mine in a kiss that has stars blasting in my vision

This time I don't think about how her kiss makes me feel, instead just enjoying it

She pulls me down as she lays down, kissing me slowly but passionately

I've never been kissed like this before and I fucking love it

Her hands move to the bottom of my shirt, taking her time as she pulls it up my body

I move my arms through the sleeves, reluctantly pulling away from her so she can get it over my head

Her eyes watch me as she drops my shirt to the floor, her hand moving to my waist

She gazes down at my body, biting her lip as her hands slowly move up

Her tiny hands run along my stomach to my chest, every nerve on fire from her touch

She spreads her hands all over my chest, slipping over my shoulders, beginning to roam my back

"Kiss me", she says softly, her gaze moving to mine

I immediately lean down, pressing my lips to hers

She pulls me against her, her soft skin against mine, feeling so good

Her fingers trail up and down my back as her tongue plays with mine, fire racing in every cell in my body

Slowly, her lips move to my neck, kissing right into the spots that make me feel fucking amazing

I don't know how she found them so quickly but she did, my mind clouding as I moan loudly

Her tongue licks my skin before kissing me, her hands moving down to my sweatpants, under the waist band of the pants and boxers, tugging them down

"Fuck", I moan, reaching for her pants, pulling them down as far as I can

I press kisses into her neck, her whimpers so fucking hot

"Take it off Mingi", she whispers

I groan, moving off her, standing by the foot of my bed

Leaning over her, I pull the rest of her pants, along with her panties, off and dropping them on the floor

I raise my eyes, the sight of her naked and in my bed driving me crazy

She's fucking perfect

Everything about her body is stunning

I can't tear my eyes away, just drinking her in

"Mingi", she whispers, my eyes moving to her pretty brown ones, "Off Mingi"

Right, I'm supposed to be taking off my clothes

I pull the rest of my pants and boxers down, getting them off in one go

"Holy shit", I hear her whisper

What?

I look back at her but her eyes are elsewhere

She stares in between my legs in disbelief, "That is a huge dick. How the fuck?"

I just smirk, "Rumors were false as you can see"

"Yeah", she says, her eyes wide

Grabbing her ankles, I pull her down to the edge of the bed while I kneel on the floor

"Uh-"

"Gonna eat your pussy", I tell her as I open her legs

I suck in a breath seeing her cunt for the first time

So fucking tiny

It's going to be hard getting inside her

I'm just gonna have to make her soaking wet then

"Oh...I thought-"

"I have to", I say, looking up at her, "You're really small and I need you to cum before you take my cock. I don't want to hurt you"

She looks unsure, saying, "You don't have to do it if you don't want to. You can just use your fingers"

I shake my head

I think I made it sound like it's a chore I have to do to get her ready for my dick

It's not

"I want to"

"You don't have to lie"

"Jo, I'm not", I assure her, "I want to taste you, I want to make you cum in my mouth"

"You do?", she asks skeptically

"So much", I reply, "You're pussy look so fucking good. So wet already and I just want my face buried in your cunt. So can I?"

The look of disbelief on her face is so cute as she nods

Taking that as a go, I put my tongue on her pussy and lick up slowly, getting a good taste of her

Fucking delicious, just like I knew she'd be

"Oh my god", she moans

I smirk then run my tongue rapidly up and down her cunt, right between her swollen pussy lips, my face getting so fucking soaked

"Shit", she whimpers, her legs already shaking around my head

I push my face into her cunt and at the same time pull her closer to me by her legs, desperate to be as close to her cunt as I can

Moving her legs around my shoulder, I dive into her wet hole, shoving my tongue in as far as I can

"Mingi, fuck", she cries as she clenches on my tongue

"Fuck. Do that again", I murmur

"Ddd...do what?", she stammers

"Squeeze my tongue when I tongue fucking you"

"God Mingi"

"Please?"

She nods and I smile before I continue to fuck my tongue into her pussy

And each time, she does squeeze my tongue hard, sending pleasure down to my cock

She moves up on her elbows and I can feel her watching me

Sure enough when I look at her, her eyes are on me, biting her lip

"Like what you see baby?", I tease between tongue thrusts

She nods, whimpering

"Like watching me eat your pretty pussy?"

"Yes Mingi", she answers, pleasure all over her face

I slide my hands up her thighs to her hips and keep going, my fingers dancing across her skin, her body trembling against my touch

I really really like that

She definitely likes watching, her pussy drenched and dripping into my mouth so much I have to swallow frequently

It's fine, she tastes so good

I slide my tongue out of her hole, licking all the way up and flicking her clit

She lets out a soft pretty moan

I like how quiet she is

I'm used to screaming and dirty talk and everything being super rough, so this is a nice change of pace

I like that I have to really work for her sounds, that I have to listen hard for them

And when she calls my name, it's better than I've ever heard it before

It just makes me want to please her so much just so I can be rewarded with hearing my name in her pretty voice

Turning my attention to her clit, I lavish it with licks, starting with the flat of my tongue and ending with my tip at the end of the lick

She breathes hard, watching me, my hands wrapping around her boobs, squeezing gently

I'm so into eating her cunt, actually loving every second of this

Tugging her pulsing clit into my mouth, I moan as I start to suck on her

"Mingi", she gasps, her hands gripping my sheets so hard, her knuckles are white

I amp it up, slurping all over her clit, wanting nothing than to keep it in my mouth forever

Still gripping her boobs, I move my fingers, pinching her nipples, her head lolling back as she moans quietly

"No baby", I tell her between sucks, "Look at me. Watch me"

She lifts her head, her eyes on me again, just how I want it

I tug softly on her clit, switching between slurping hard and suckling softly, visibly bringing her closer and closer

I suck hard as I pinch her nipple, a loud groan coming from her as her hand slides in my hair, holding on, at the same time her hips snap into my face

She keeps moving her hips as I play with her clit, fucking my face, her hands pulling my hair hard

"Yes baby", I moan between sucks, "More aegi. Fuck my face baby"

"Fuck", she whispers, her hips moving faster as I suck desperately on her

"Mingi, I...I'm gonna cum", she breathes

"Eyes on mine when you cum", I demand

Her big brown eyes meet mine, the pleasure in them turning me on

"Mingi", she calls softly, her legs shaking around me as she cums, grinding into my mouth

I hold her gaze as I suck her through it, then drop my tongue down to her hole

I lick her cum, moaning in shock at how fucking good tastes

So sweet, so creamy, so delicious

Shit

I can't help but close my eyes as I lick up and swallow all of her cum

When she finishes and I clean her up, I press a kiss to her pretty pussy lips, then move to press kisses to her inner thighs

I can hear her breathing hard, her fingers lazily running through my hair as I suck on her skin

I leave a dark purple bruise on her and when she sees it, she says softly, "More"

"More?", I tease, "You sure?"

She bites her lip, nodding, "All over"

"I can do that", I murmur, licking a spot on her inner thigh right before I suck her skin in my mouth

I love the feeling of her skin in my mouth, how soft she is, love hearing her quiet noises

After leaving many marks on her, I sit up on my knees between her legs, pulling her closer to me, getting her legs around my waist

"Gonna play with your pussy for a little. Get you nice and wet to take me"

She nods, breathing hard

Moving my cock between her lips, I move forward, sliding my length on her cunt, my head brushing against her clit

Fuck, it feels so good

And based on her soft moans, it feels good for her

Her pussy is so wet, coating my cock, the feeling of the sticky slick so good

I keep rubbing my shaft along her cunt, her clit throbbing against my head, that sensation running up my spine

"You're so fucking wet", I murmur, keeping her legs spread wide, my eyes stuck on her swollen pussy lips wrapped around my cock

I move a little faster when my cock head slips inside her hole accidentally

She moans as she clenches hard, pleasure zapping up my body

"Fuck, tight", I groan

Even from that little bit, I can tell she's really tight

Glancing up at her, I pull my cock head out, then slide it back in, watching her body shake, her hands grip my sheets hard, pleasure on her face

I pull out then move in again, her legs squeezing my waist, her head pressing back into her pillow, her eyes closed

"Feels good?", I ask

She nods, biting her lip

Ok

Gripping my cock, I guide my head and a tiny bit more of my cock into her cunt, the immediate squeeze around me so fucking pleasurable

"Think I should fuck you this way?", I ask, thrusting in and out

"Yes", she moans, her hands twisting in the sheets

"Yeah? With just my head? The way you're clenching on me makes me think you like it"

"I do", she whimpers, "Please Mingi, fuck me like this"

"I will baby", I assure her, moving into her hole faster, keeping a grip on my cock so I have control of how much enters her

I'm not going to lie, it feels really good

I've never used just my cock head to fuck a girl

But she is the tiniest I've ever been in and this is a good way to stretch her pussy out

I feel her drench me, tearing my eyes from her beautiful face down to her cunt

Holy shit

"My god, I've never seen a pussy this creamy before", I gape, slowly pulling my head out, then moving back in, watching her swollen pussy lips petal open, her tiny hole spread and her cream dripping on to me

On to the bed

"Is...is that bad?"

"No baby", I say, mesmerized, "I love it"

The sloppy wet sound of her pussy taking my cock head is fucking music to my ears

It's so loud, so pretty, so pornographic

"Feels good?", I ask when she moans

"Yes", she nods, "Good for you?"

"So good", I assure her, "You're sloppy creamy little hole is so pretty swallowing my head. Could watch this all day"

"Mmm", she moans softly, one of her hands moving from the sheet to wrap around my wrist, holding on tightly

Her body shakes, her breath getting faster, her cunt throbbing on my head every time I go inside her

She's close and I want her orgasm so badly

I want to feel her, want to see what I tasted all over my cock

"Cum on my head", I tell her, watching her hole throb around me, "I know you want to. C'mon aegi"

I thrust into her hole a few more times when her body arches, her cunt sucking on my head as she cums, throbbing so fucking blissfully

The pleasure from her orgasm is as shocking as it is amazing, blowing my mind

I watch her hole spasm, her cream dripping down my shaft

"Mingi!", she moans, holding onto my wrist so tightly, "Fuck me Mingi. Please. Want your cock inside me baby. Now"

I want that too but I don't want to hurt her

Letting go of my length, I hover over her, my hands on either side of her head as I slowly push inside her

Fuck fuck fuck

So fucking tight

I can't think of anything except how tight she is, can't feel anything except for her cunt stretching around me

Getting inside her feels incredible

"Yes Mingi!", she cries loudly, her legs squeezing around me, her hands grabbing my hips, gripping hard, "Please, more. All of you"

"I don't want to hurt you baby", I tell her as I ease into her, her pussy sucking me in, latching on to my cock tightly, spasming quickly

Her hands pull on my hips, helping me get inside her

"All of you now!", she whispers, "I can take you"

I bite my lip as the pleasure takes over and I slam the rest of my cock into her, impaling her on my shaft, hitting so deeply inside

"Yes, fuck!", we both shout, her body arching into mine

"Yes, yes, yes", she whimpers, "Fuck me Mingi. Fuck, want you so bad"

I nod, leaning down, my lips crashing to hers just as I start to move

Her kiss sears through my body, fire running along my back, as I pull out then slam back in

I move fast, wrapping one of my arms around her waist, lifting her right against me, her arms moving around my back

Her pussy splits open so well for me, actually taking my entire cock without a problem

Her tongue plays with mine, her fingers barely running up and down my back, shivers on my skin every place she touches

Those shivers just enhance the pleasure, making me crave more

I don't know why I'm feeling like this

I never shivered during sex either so I don't know what the fuck is going on

I don't want to think about it, I'm just going with it

I thrust into her harder, feeling so fucking amazing, the sound of her sopping pussy mixing with the slapping sound of our skin hitting with every stroke

I just keep kissing her, not able to get enough of her lips against mine

Hiking her legs up higher on my waist gives me more room to move, giving her stroke after stroke, right into her spot

"Mingi", she moans, sending chills down my spine

I love hearing my name in her voice

I move my kisses to her neck, feeling her skin tremble, one of her arms moving around my neck, sliding into my hair, holding on

Making my way down her neck, down her chest, I wrap my hand around her boob, pushing it up

I run my tongue over her hard nipple once, then lock my lips around it, sucking hard

"Oh god", she whimpers, her cunt clenching my cock hard, her pussy flooding my length even more

Her pussy spasms get faster with each fuck into her, her moans getting louder

"I'm...I'm....", she whimpers

"Mm hmm", I groan around her nipple, moving my hips faster, wanting to feel her cum on my entire cock

After a few more thrusts, she cries my name, climaxing, intense pleasure hitting me hard

I shove my entire cock inside her, letting her ride it out on my length

And it feels fucking mind blowing

I lift my head, watching her cum underneath me and fuck, she's so stunning

Her legs are squeezing me hard, her hand pulling my hair, pleasure all over her face

"So pretty", I hear myself say, my fingers running in her hair

Her eyes open, looking shyly at me, her cheeks pink

Her hand unclenches my hair, sliding through the strands to softly touching my cheek

Fire zaps into my cells as I turn my head into her palm, kissing it gently

She smiles softly at me, lifting her head, her lips against mine in another heated kiss

As I kiss her, she gently pushes me to the side and I go with her until she ends up on top of me, straddling me

Breaking the kiss, she sits up in my lap, her hand holding my cock up for her

She sinks down on my length, whimpering softly, wiggling her hips as she goes, opening up her pussy for me

"Mingi", she barely whispers, shivers running down my spine hearing my name

"Mmm baby", I groan, the pleasure of getting inside her so fucking intense, "All the way down. Split that pussy open for me. Fuck, you feel so fucking good"

Her hips are mesmerizing me with the way they move as she takes more of me slowly, her pussy making a sucking sensation on my dick as she pulls me inside

I keep my hands on her hips, trying desperately not to dig my fingers into her skin

She just has a little more of me to take

"Please baby", I moan, "Take all my cock"

She whimpers, finally shoving herself down, my length buried inside her to the hilt

"Mmm Mingi, fuck", she moans, "So big, shit"

She sits on me, feeling me, her pussy walls fluttering around my length, driving me crazy

I move my gaze down to where we meet, spreading her lips apart to get a better view

"Oh my god", I whimper, my eyes on her hole around me

"Www..what? What's wrong?"

"Fuck, you're pussy looks so fucking good wrapped around my cock", I whisper, glancing up at her, "That fucking hole, fuck. Straining around me"

I actually think I might be too big for her

"Does it hurt?", I ask

"No", she shakes her head, "It feels so good. God, I've never had a cock like yours inside me"

"Cock like mine?", I ask

Her hips move, rocking on me, my head rubbing inside her, soft moans escaping her mouth as her body shivers

Each rub into her spot makes her clench on me, pleasure so good

"Yeah. Huge like yours. Snug inside me. No extra room. So fucking deep. Overstuffs me", she groans, her hips grinding on me faster, "Never had a cock this hard inside. God, clenching on you....fuck so good. I....I think I really like having your dick inside me"

I smile at her, happy she enjoys being with me

"I like having my cock inside you. Your pussy is the tightest, smallest, I ever had around me but you fit so perfectly on me. Like your pussy was meant to take me"

She tilts her head, smiling too, "I know what you mean"

I'm glad she does and I don't sound like an idiot

She leans over, her lips brushing against mine in a brief kiss

Then she's sitting back up, her hands against my shoulders as she slides up my shaft

When she gets to my head, she squeezes so hard, making me gasp from the bliss

As she slowly slides down my cock, she clenches over and over, feeling like she's sucking on my cock

She bottoms me out, grinding on me then she's sliding back up again

She repeats the movements slowly but takes me in so deeply, each clench of her pussy as she takes me back in sending unbelievable bliss through my whole body

I never had anyone ride me like this, never this good, never this deep, never squeezing my cock so much as I go back in

It's driving me crazy and my head is getting hazy

She's getting me so fucked out and it's a new experience for me

Normally I'm doing that to the girl

But God do I like the emptiness in my head, the only thing I can do is feel her, feel the pleasure

She sits up a little straighter, her hands now on my abs, moving just a touch faster

I watch her as I feel everything, loving the pleasure on her face as she moves on me

She's so fucking stunning it's stupid

She breathes harder, my gaze moving to her pussy creaming my cock like crazy

All over, a pretty white mess covering me, thick creamy ring around the base of my cock and I just want more

Her skin has a light sheen of sweat but her hair is soaked, falling in her face as she bounces

She bites her lips hard, shaking slightly on top of me and I know she's close

"Fuck", she whimpers, her fingers squeezing my skin hard, "Oh god"

"Say my name", I beg her, squeezing her hips, "Please, fuck, I love hearing you say my name"

"Mingi", she whimpers so softly as she climaxes, her pussy throbbing uncontrollably, squeezing my cock in a vice grip

She's so fucking beautiful

"Mingi", she repeats, "Mingi"

Hearing my name is just what I need, throwing me over the edge

"Fuck Joanne", I cry, holding her on my cock as I cum deep inside her, complete ecstacy taking over

Holy shit it feels so fucking good

Coming hasn't felt this good before

"Fuck Mingi, yes", she moans, her pussy milking my cock for everything I have

"Yes aegi. Fuck, Good girl. Taking my cum so well just like you take my cock", I praise her, "Good girl"

Moving my hands from her waist, I wrap them around her, pulling down against me

She comes willingly, her head on my chest, breathing hard

My god, she fits so perfectly in my arms too, like she was meant to be there

She cuddles into me, her hand resting on my chest right where my heart is and I just smile, then kiss her forehead

I like this, just laying with her in comfortable silence

I don't do things like this

Not when the girl is not my girlfriend

After sex, I just get up and either leave or the girl leaves

But I'm finding that I really don't want that right now

I want her to stay right here with me

So I just hold her and enjoy the feel of her in my arms

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

One week later

Mingi POV

I fidget in my seat as the car drives us to the photo shoot set

I haven't seen or spoken to Joanne in a week

She ended up sleeping over that night

She fell asleep in my arms and I didn't want her to leave

The next morning it was awkward

I didn't know what to say and she didn't either

We both got dressed and she said she'd see me for the next shoot

I said ok, we said bye and she left

Then I found out that the next photo shoot was a week away

We had practice all week and didn't need any stylists

I was too chicken shit to text her and she didn't text me either

As the week went on, I found myself thinking about her all the time

Wanting to see her

And not for sex which completely threw me off guard

I just wanted to spend time with her

Hold her again

And kiss her

Fuck do I want to kiss her

Feel her soft lips against mine, her tongue playing with mine, her arms around my neck, her fingers in my hair

Yeah I realized I got it bad for her

Feelings that I either didn't know were there or developed really quickly

Doesn't really matter which because all I know is they're there and I want her

I'm just worried I'm going to fuck it up because I'm a complete doof when it comes to talking to girls about feelings and asking them out

I enlisted the help of Wooyoung, who surprisingly gave me good advice

Be calm, be direct, be clear

Tell her how I feel and what I want

Don't be afraid

The worst she can do is say no

Which is terrible but he's right

The car pulls up to the building and I breathe out, trying to calm myself

We get out and as we walk towards the dressing rooms Wooyoung says, "You got this"

I nod

Stepping into the dressing room, I scan the room for her

She's at the far right of the room, by the makeup tables

Here goes

As I walk over to her, she looks up at me nervously

God, she's so fucking beautiful

"Oh uh Mingi, hi. I uh... I didn't get a chance to tell-"

Right, she's talking about the rumor that I don't give a fuck about anymore or proving anything to anyone

I just want her

I reach her, cupping her face in my hands and brushing my lips against hers

The same spark hits me hard, my head dizzy and in the clouds

I wasn't imagining it

This confirms that what I felt was real

She kisses me back, her hands holding onto my wrists as I deepen the kiss, my tongue against hers

"Ho-ly shit", someone says

"Is Mingi kissing a makeup artist?"

"Is that.....Joanne? And Mingi?"

Gently pulling away after the kiss ends, I look into her beautiful brown eyes, "Forget the rumor. Don't tell anyone anything"

Confusion fills her eyes, "Why?"

"Because I don't care what anyone thinks", I answer softly, "I just care about what you think. It's just between us"

A small smile forms on her lips, "Just between us?"

I nod, "Between me and my aegi"

Her smile widens, "Who would that be?"

"You", I tell her, "If you want. If you want to be with me. More than friends"

She nods, "I do but...is that what you want?"

"Yes", I answer, "I didn't know I wanted that with you until that night. Until I realized I have feelings for you and you're all I want"

She nods, "You're all I want Mingi. I...I always had feelings for you"

"You hid them so well baby", I tell her, smiling softly

I had no idea she felt that way but I'm so fucking glad she does

"I had to Mingi. You're an idol. I'm a staff member", she reasons, "And you just wanted a one night thing. I...I figured if there was one chance to be with you this was it. I'd take it and then we'd go back to normal. We'd still be friends"

"I don't want to be your friend, baby. I want more. I want you"

"I want you too baby", she whispers, my heart soaring at hearing her call me baby

"I'm all yours", I assure her

"I'm all yours too", she tells me

I smile like I just won the lottery

Because I did

Pulling her right to me, I kiss her, not giving a fuck who sees

Her arms move around my neck as mine move around her waist, both of us holding each other tightly

"What the fuck is going on?"

I know that voice

Slowly, begrudgingly, I pull away from her sweet lips and turn my head to look at Bong-Cha

"What the fuck are you two doing?", she shrieks

"I'm kissing my girlfriend", I tell her, "Not that it's any of your business"

"You're girlfriend?", she asks shocked, "You just slept with me a month ago, how are you with her already?"

How the fuck is she questioning me?

She's acting like we're together and she just caught me cheating on her

She needs to back off

"That's none of your business. All you need to know is we're together. That's it"

She needs to stay out of my business

She scoffs, glaring at Joanne, "Well sucks for you. He has a small dick"

The whispers of the staff start up again, giggles coming from some of the women

But I couldn't care less

My baby knows the truth, that's all that matters

Her eyes narrow at Bong-Cha and I can tell she's pissed

"Actually I'm gonna clear one thing up without too many details", she snaps, "You're a fucking liar"

It's so quiet in the room, a dropped pin could be heard

"You lied because Mingi never called you back after your one night stand", she growls, "Instead of being a mature adult and going to speak to him to clear things up, you spread a false rumor to make your pathetic self feel better. And the rest of you idiots spread the rumor like you're in fucking high school"

I just stand back and watch my baby go

Like I said, brutally honest

"I'm gonna say this once so you better listen or there will be problems", she says to Bong-Cha, "Keep my boyfriend's name out of your fucking mouth"

"Your girlfriend is so cool", Wooyoung whispers gleefully

"I know", I smile

Bong-Cha wordlessly nods her head, the turns and scurries away

The rest of the staff just stand there in shock

"Well", she snaps, "Fuck off"

"Definitely cool", Wooyoung compliments

"I'm sorry baby", she says, turning back to me

"Don't be aegi", I say, "You were amazing, baby. You said all you needed to without giving away anything. Thanks for defending me aegi"

"Always baby", she smiles, moving her arms back around my neck

I smile widely so happy that everything turned out well and I now have an amazing girlfriend

"Kiss me Mingi", she says softly

"Always aegi", I answer, leaning down and capturing her lips in a mind blowing kiss

[luvsunarin]

[ megumi fushiguro x fem!reader ] ෴ IN WHICH⠀your roommate tries to convince you to join her band.

warnings・CORNY CORNY CORNY. i wrote this at 3 in the morning and did not proof read or edit this so my apologies if it makes no sense LOL

wc・1.1k || short read lolz. p2 mayb!?

APART OF⠀⠀𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑 𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓. BAND AUS [ the collection ]

you laid on your arm chair in the living room with your head resting on the arm rest, while your legs dangled over the armrest on the opposite side of the small couch meanwhile your roommate sat on the floor in front of you while some of her band mates sat on the couch and some on the floor.

"c'mon y/n! we need a drummer, and you're the perfect option!" nobara pleaded you.

"look nobara, i'm truly flattered but i don't know." you sighed and shrugged.

"why not? didn't you tell me you used to be in a band in high school with megumi at one point?" she glanced between the two of you.

your eyes widened for a subtle second, "no? i never told you that." you told her and squinted at megumi.

"well then megumi did! he said that you were the drummer and that you played like no one else." she repeated his words dramatically which made megumi roll his eyes.

"didn't i tell you to not bring that up?" he scoffed.

"desperate times call for desperate measures." itadori reasoned with a shrug.

"well he's being dramatic. i really was an average drummer. our lead singer would always get mad at me 'cause i'd constantly fuck up during practices."

"yet you played flawlessly at shows." megumi added, staring at you intensely.

"what?" you furrowed your eyebrows at him.

"you rarely played good at practice but whenever it came to shows, you played perfectly." he said. "oh but ya know, it has been a while so i understand if you got even worse." a smirk formed on his features.

you raise an eyebrow at him and send him a brief glare, which he returned.

itadori cleared his throat and stared between the two of you who were staring very intensely at each other then glanced at nobara. "maybe this isn't such a good idea–"

"no, you know what? i'll do it." you scoffed.

they all went wide-eyed, "what?!"

"i'll be your drummer," you specified. "then i'll prove to fushiguro that i've only gotten better at drumming."

itadori and nobara's bright features dropped when you said that, "seriously? just for competition?"

"nah. she's just saying that 'cause she misses playing the drums. and she misses being in a band with me." megumi teased.

you scoffed, "in your dreams."

"yeah, i dreamt about it every night so much to the point it became reality."

your features relaxed and you adjusted your legs on the arm chair, "whatever."

"i'll let our manager know then!" nobara cleared her throat, breaking the awkward silence that grew upon them and she pulled out her phone. "gojo'll be thrilled."

"seriously? megumi's dad is the manager of this band too?" you stiffled your laughter.

"he's not my dad–"

"yet he's changed your diapers more than toji ever did." you cut him off and shrugged.

he scoffed, "whatever."

nobara clicked on gojo's contact and pressed call. "gojo, you won't believe it!"

you heard gojo's muffled voice through the phone, "what? wait, let me guess– you got y/n to be your drummer?"

"yup! she said she's only doing it to prove to fushiguro that she's still an amazing drummer but i know that's bullshit." nobara whispered followed by a chuckle.

"i heard that kugisaki." you called out.

itadori rushed over to the phone as well, "yup, they probably miss each other a lot." he whispered.

"you guys are right in front of us." megumi pointed out.

the other three rolled their eyes. three because you just know that gojo rolled his eyes as well. "fine then we'll go somewhere you can't hear us!" they made their way to the kitchen and continued to gossip there with gojo.

which left you and megumi.

the silence wasn't awkward. the air felt stuffy but not awkward. however you broke the silence by asking megumi a question, "do you seriously think i'm the best drummer or were you over-exaggerating 'cause you missed being in a band with me?" you teased as a smirk tugged on your lips.

megumi clicked his tongue and rolled his eyes, "are you seriously joining the band because you wanna prove to me you're still the best drummer or 'cause you missed being in a band with me?" he mocked you.

you thought for a moment, "neither. i miss playing the drums." you told him confidently.

"i'm heart broken, really." he said dramatically. "you didn't miss me?"

"sure i did," you chuckled at him. "i missed throwing my drum sticks at your head before a show."

"i'd always keep it in my pocket during the show for goodluck."

"aw, was i your good luck charm?" you mocked him and laughed.

"you could say that if it makes you happy." he rolled his eyes.

"nah, i'd rather think of it that you had my drum stick in your pocket so that you could always have a reminder that i'm putting you under pressure." you looked at him.

he laughed softly, "i'd prefer the good luck thing."

"i wouldn't. if i kept one of your guitar strings in my pocket, i'd pressure myself to play ten times better." you spoke, "but then again, you don't like being put under pressure. so i see why you prefer the good luck thing." you smirked at him.

he looked at you weirdly while a smile subconsciously snuck onto his features, "i'd put myself under pressure for you."

"gross," you looked at him with a playfully disgusted look. "that's corny."

"it was a joke asshole," he shook his head. "hey but didn't you notice that i played better with your drumstick in my pocket than when i didn't?"

"under pressure."

"whatever." he sighed. "i'm glad you joined the band." he told you, changing the topic.

you hummed, "oh yeah? so you did miss being in a band with me." you confirmed.

"whatever helps you sleep at night. you sleep deprived fuck."

you looked at him playfully offended, "sleep deprived fuck?" you repeated his words. "i can't believe you."

"sure y/n. remind me of how many hours of sleep you get?"

"too far buddy, too far," you joked followed by a laugh. "anyway, how have you been?"

"better now that you joined the band." he smirked.

"oh? so you really missed me?" you joked.

"yeah," he finally admitted. "i didn't just miss being in a band with you but i missed you." he added.

you stared at him, "oh yeah? i missed you too actually." you admitted as well.

"sure you did. wasn't i the reason you left our old band?"

"well now you're the reason i'm joining your new one." you chuckled, "you gotta quit doing that– letting the past interfere with the future."

he sighed in defeat, "so you did miss me, huh?"

"oh shut up." you gave in and smiled.

﹫heartshapedjewls' work! do not copy! || xtra words frm jules: im contemplating whether or not i should make a prt2 butttt idk... MORE BAND AUS TO COMEEE!! im so excited to write for star treatment 🫂. anyway have a good day yall, and stay hydrated!

[toboldlygohome]

"Please..."

Mark Watney X Reader

Summary: Nothing could have prepared you for the pain of losing your boyfriend on Sol 6. But you were even less prepared to find out that he didn't die. You left him there. Alone.

Character(s): Mark Watney, Beth Johanssen, Chris Beck, Melissa Lewis, Alex Vogel, Rick Martinez.

Warning(s): Descriptions of grief, Mentions of death, Cursing (lots of it), Mildly sexual themes (nothing explicit), Mentions of malnourishment.

A/N: I absolutely adore The Martian, but I've noticed a criminally low amount of fan content for it, so I decided to make some! I've decided to follow more closely to the book plot rather than the movie (Just because I like the dialogue more and it's more scientifically accurate). However, there will be a couple scenes from the movie sprinkled in just because I thought they were fun. I hope you enjoy!

It was the morning of Sol 6 and you were up early to make some coffee before your EVA mission. The past few days on Mars had been busy, but far more rewarding than you could have ever imagined. You were one of the geologists in the Ares 3 crew, along with Commander Lewis of course. Mars, to you, was a playground of science. A giant sphere of discovery you couldn't wait to explore.

Today's EVA was to gather samples from near the hab. You had seen plenty of rocks on the way in that you needed to overturn almost as much as you needed oxygen to breathe.

You sensed a hand on the small of your back and felt goosebumps trail up your spine. "Morning Y/L/N. Anything to report?" A playful voice proclaimed.

"Other than bland coffee and terrible sleep, nothing of interest~" You turned back and smiled at your boyfriend. He brushed his thumb over a patch of exposed skin on your lower back before pulling his hand away.

"Hey, at least you don't have to sleep under Martinez, bastard was tossing and turning all night." He smirked as he made his own cup. "I'm barely getting by, the only thing keeping me grounded is this bland ass coffee."

You snickered and rolled your eyes. "Poor baby," You teased.

You and Mark Watney had been together for almost three years, in secret of course. NASA isn't exactly fond of sending couples into space where they might throw caution to the wind and procreate in transit. You were professionals, this mission was something you both had been looking forward to since it was announced. But that wouldn't stop the Space Administration from removing you both from Ares 3.

Nobody knew you were together. Not NASA, not your families, not even the crew knew of your relationship. As far as anyone was concerned, you were just great friends (inseparable in fact). You went out for dinners, went on morning jogs together, spent late nights gaming and going over the mission handbook. Everyone knew you confided in one another and worked incredibly as a team. But nobody would have guessed that instead of playing Yahtzee together on your evenings off, Mark was slowly and deliciously making you breathless with his lips, melting you with his touch.

Once the mission actually started, it was much harder than anticipated to cut out the physical affection. There were cameras everywhere on the ship and absolutely no way to hide from them. The only place for privacy was the bathrooms, but you had a rather close call that involved Mark dragging you there under the guise of helping him with his laptop (which obviously earned an eyebrow raise from Johanssen,) only for him to kiss you with the desperation of a man dying of thirst. You were nearly caught by Beck and you both decided not to risk it again. Luckily, you and Watney were a couple of problem solvers.

Instead of kisses, you resorted to touching. A hand on the back, an arm on the shoulder, a nudge of the elbow. Casual touch became your replacement for intimacy.

Mark pulled a smug smile and wrapped his arm around your shoulder. "You know what Y/N, I am a poor baby. But I can think of something that would make me feel better..." He whispered close to your ear. You flushed and playfully shoved him back.

"In your dreams Watney." You scoffed but your hand lingered on his stomach, earning a cheeky grin from the botanist.

"How'd you know?" He laughed, glancing down at your lips briefly. You knew what he was thinking: that it had been awhile and maybe he could risk just a little peck. Mark was a reckless one, that's for sure.

"Guys, quit flirting so loudly. I was trying to get a few minutes extra sleep before Lewis pulls out the bugle," Beck strolled in and grabbed a ration packet.

"Flirting? With him?" You asked incredulously, jabbing your thumb toward Mark.

"And vice versa," Beck shrugged.

"You must be seeing things, maybe we should call a doctor?" Watney sassily took a sip of his drink.

"Hilarious," Beck replied. Chris had been fighting for you and Mark to get together for about as long as you've known him (which is a decent number of years, in case you were wondering.) Little did he know you had already jumped that fence. You felt bad for keeping it from him, but you were sure he'd understand given his thing with Johanssen.

"Oh good, you guys are already up." Lewis sighed "hey, can one of you wake up Martinez? He's not listening to a single word I say."

You gave Watney a sidelong glance. He groaned and downed the rest of his terrible space coffee. "Yeah sure, I can go get the bastard. I'll give him a piece of my mind while I'm at it." Mark stomped off to the bunks and Lewis followed him. You casually sat beside Beck, who gave you a knowing smile.

"You know Chris, it would probably happen on its own if you didn't push it so much." You mumbled against the rim of your cup in an attempt to hide a smile.

"It's obvious he likes you too. Practically written all over his face," Beck said. "Honestly though, you two don't even realize when you're flirting. It's kind of incredible."

You huffed, "Now's not the best time for all that, you know."

"I know, I know. Just, keep it on the table okay?"

"Whatever you say Dr. Beck," You snickered. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have an EVA to prep for."

Chris rolled his eyes and poked at the food on his plate, "you're excused."

~~~

"Alright team, stay in sight of each other. Let's make NASA proud today." Lewis announced.

"How's it looking over there Watney?" Martinez asked.

"Well, you'll be happy to hear that in grid section 14/28, the particles are predominantly coarse. But in 29 they're uh... much finer. That should be ideal for chem analysis."

"Oh wow! did everyone hear that? Mark just discovered dirt! Should we alert the media?" Martinez teased. Mark glanced up at you, but you couldn't see his face behind the helmet.

"Hey, you better watch it fly boy. I'm working this grid too!" You laughed.

"Sorry, what are you doing today Martinez? Making sure the MAV is still upright?" You could hear the smirk in Mark's voice.

"Well, I'd like you to know that visual inspection of the equipment is imperative to mission success," Rick preached. "I'd also like to report that the MAV is still upright."

You and Mark giggled as you worked on the grid. "Watney, you're keeping your channel open, which leads to Martinez responding, which leads to all of us listening, which leads to me being annoyed," Lewis scolded halfheartedly.

"Roger that, Martinez the captain would like you to please uh," Mark looked at you for approval and continued. "Shut your smart mouth."

Rick cackled and you playfully nudged Mark on the shoulder.

"We'd prefer you use a different adjective to describe Martinez's mouth." Beck said from inside the Hab, resulting in even more laughter from the rest of the crew.

"Did Beck just insult me?!"

"Dr. Beck and yes!"

"I'm happy to turn the radios off from here commander. Just say the word." Johanssen suggested.

"Johanssen, constant communication is the hallmark-" Watney started.

"Shut him off" Melissa gave the order.

"No-" Johanssen cut him off. Mark tossed his little hammer in the dirt and looked back at the captain like she had just kicked a kitten. You patted the shoulder of his suit and urged him to get back to work.

"I'm sorry for my countrymen, Vogel." Lewis said.

"Accepted," Vogel shrugged and glanced up at the sky. "The storm... It's closer than Houston reported."

"We've got time," Lewis said. "Focus on the task at hand. This EVA's all about chemical analysis. Vogel, you're the chemist so you're in charge of what we dig up."

"Ja, Please dig thirty centimeters and get soil samples. At least one hundred grams each. Very important is thirty centimeters down." Vogel clarified, eyes back on his work.

"Will do, stay within a hundred meters of the Hab," Lewis said.

You worked in peace and quiet for a few minutes. You measured the grid while Mark hammered the grid labels. You could hardly wait to take samples. Mark was right, it was perfect for chem analysis. Unfortunately, your work was short-lived because Johanssen had some bad news.

"Commander, you should come inside. You're gonna want to see this."

"What is it?" Lewis asked.

"Houston has upgraded the storm to 'severe.' It's going to be here in fifteen minutes." Johanssen said.

You perked your head up to get a look at the sky. Already it was getting darker.

"Martinez, how's it looking?" Asked commander Lewis.

"Not good." He said.

After a moment of contemplation, Lewis made her decision. "Back to base."

~~~

The Hab shook and the sound of wind and debris outside only exacerbated the tension within. Lewis commanded everyone to put on their flight suits and you congregated around the screen, wondering if this was the end of your mission.

"Sustained winds over one hundred kilometers per hour now. Gusting to one twenty-five," Johanssen frowned.

"Jesus, we're gonna end up in Oz," Watney said. "What's the abort speed?"

"One fifty kilometers per hour, anymore than that and the MAV's in danger of tipping." Martinez placed his hands on his hips.

"Any predictions on the storm track?" Lewis asked.

"This is the edge of it... It's gonna get worse before it gets better." Johanssen delivered the bad news with confidence. Silence fell over the group and you grabbed Mark's hand. You wished you could feel the warmth, but the gloves on the flight suit acted as a barrier. Watney met your sorrowful eyes. You'd have to end the mission before it even started. He let go of your hand and pressed you into his side. It was over. 25 sols early. You leaned your head against his shoulder and willed the grief to subside.

"Alright, prep for abort. We'll go to the MAV and hope for the best. If the wind gets too high, we launch." Lewis grabbed her helmet.

~~~

Outside the Hab, the wind was disastrous. Mark was nearly swept off his feet by the force of the gusts. He slammed into you, but you managed to keep him on his feet.

"Shit! Thanks." Watney regained his balance.

"Visibility is almost zero. If you get lost, hone in on my suit's telemetry! The wind's gonna be rougher away from the Hab, so be ready!" Lewis warned.

The Ares crew stumbled toward the MAV with ever increasing uncertainty. You had to lean into the wind to avoid being thrown backward. Mark wasn't doing much better. It didn't help that his mind wasn't on getting to the MAV safely, it was on how to keep it upright. Watney was smart, too smart for his own good.

"Hey," Watney panted. "Maybe we could shore up the MAV. Make tipping less likely."

"How?" Lewis Huffed.

"We could use cables from the solar farm as guylines. The rovers could be anchors. The trick would be getting the line around the-"

You choked on your scream as Mark was struck by a massive piece of wreckage, sending him off into the disorienting mist of dust and wind.

"MARK!" You screamed and tried to stumble after him, but you could barely see an inch in front of your helmet.

"What happened?" Lewis said.

"Something hit him!" Johanssen said shakily.

"Watney report..." Lewis said. You listened hard and prayed he'd answer. "Watney, report!" Nothing.

"He's offline, I don't know where he is." Johanssen reported as calmly as she could. You bit back a whimper as you shuffled forward.

"Commander, before we lost telemetry, his decompression alarm went off!" Beck said.

"Shit! Y/L/N, where did you last see him?" Lewis asked.

"H-he was right in front of me and then he was gone," you managed. "He flew off due west" You pointed.

"Okay, Martinez, get to the MAV and prep for launch. Everyone else, home in on Johanssen."

"Dr. Beck, how long can a person survive decompression?" Vogel asked.

"Less than a minute." Beck looked back at you. You could hear the pain in his voice. No. Mark couldn't be... He was just beside you a moment ago.

"Commander, the MAV's got a seven degree tilt. It'll tip at 12.3."

"Copy that."

He's alive, he can't be dead!

"Johanssen, Watney's bio-monitor sent something before going offline. My computer just says 'Bad Packet,'" Beck said.

"Give me a sec," Johanssen said.

"Commander, message from Houston. We're officially scrubbed. The storm's definitely too rough."

"Copy."

"Beck, I have the raw packet!" Johanssen said, "It's plaintext: BP 0, PR 0, TP 36.2. That's as far as I got."

Beck sighed and shook his head. "Blood pressure zero, pulse rate zero, temperature normal..."

Your chest tightened and your eyes burned. "Temperature normal?" You asked hopefully.

"It takes a while for the-" Beck swallowed. "It takes awhile to cool."

"Commander, tilting at 10.5 degrees now, with gusts pushing it to 11." Martinez reported.

"Copy, if it tips, launch."

"What about you commander?"

"I'm going to search a little more."

"You really think I'll leave you behind?" Martinez asked.

"I just ordered you to. You four, get to the ship." Lewis replied.

"Let me help search commander, we'll find him faster if we-" Lewis cut you off.

"That's an order, Y/L/N. Go."

Beck nudged you forward. You reluctantly allowed him to.

"Johanssen, would the rover IR camera do any good?"

"Negative. IR can't get through sand any better than visible light."

"What about the proximity radar? Could it detect Watney's suit?"

"No way. It's made to see Hermes, not the metal in a single space suit."

"Give it a try," Lewis ordered.

"Commander, I know you don't want to hear this... but Wat-... Mark's dead." Beck said.

No.

No.

Please...

Everything around you was a blur. You went through the motions from training. Strapping yourself in, readying your station, waiting for launch. You couldn't look at the empty seat beside you. You couldn't think about anything but your job right now, If you allowed your thoughts to that dark place, you'd have to be dragged along by the rest of the crew.

You couldn't do that to them. Not now.

Lewis returned to the ship and strapped herself in. "Still at pilot-release," Martinez said softly. "Ready for launch."

You swallowed the lump in your throat.

"I'm sorry Commander, you need to verbally-"

"Launch."

You felt the bone-crushing power of ascent. The g's did nothing but forcefully push the tears from your eyes.

You wish it would have been you.

~~~

Mark Watney closed out of the mission log application and stared at the computer screen for a few minutes. He couldn't fathom the hopelessness he was feeling, it was too deep to swim out of. What else was there to do but sit and wait to die? Maybe it would be easier to just go into the airlock and open the doors!

Watney turned his head to a picture of you on the wall behind the computer. It was there among other pictures of the crew and their families. You were standing with your brother in front of one of those rickety wooden roller coasters at Six Flags. He felt a painful twinge in his chest. You thought he was dead and there was no way to tell you otherwise.

He was completely alone, had the whole goddamned planet to himself. Mark rubbed his hands over his face. "Fuck..." he said. "Fuck!" he pulled at the hair on his head before looking up at the picture again. He wished he would have kissed you. He wanted to that morning when you were sharing coffee. He should have said he loved you. Mark hadn't said it in so long.

He knew you like the back of his hand. You were blaming yourself. Everyone in the crew was probably doing the same. He could barely stomach the thought.

Mark grabbed the picture from the wall and shuffled to the bunks. He was so tired and in a lot of pain from the stupid antenna. He was about to settle into his bed, when his eyes landed on yours. After a moment of deliberation, he hobbled into your bunk and pulled the covers up to his chin. It still smelled like you. He buried his face into your pillow and cried.

~~~

You sat in the dining area in the Hermes, watching as the windows slowly spun around. It had been about a week since the incident and you weren't sure you had any more tears left to cry. You did your best to keep on task during your waking hours, only allowing yourself to feel when everyone else was either asleep or taking the piloting shift.

Your fingers drummed lightly against the table, mingling with the beeps, boops, groans, and hums of the ship keeping you safe from the unforgiving vacuum of space. You thought about a lot of things. About Mark, his parents, the house he wanted so badly to buy, his favorite music, his plants growing in the botany lab... The one thing you didn't want to think about was his body, how it would be buried by sand and dust within the year, how Mars would never let it decay. You tried not to think about how if you had just reached for him, maybe he'd still be alive.

"Y/N?" A familiar German accent spoke. You tensed and dared a glance back at Vogel.

"Hey, what's up?" You plastered a grin on your face.

"I have noticed you've not been sleeping. You are... Okay?" He asked, lumbering closer. He was clearly very tired and you felt terrible he was here worrying about you instead of getting some much deserved rest.

"Yeah... Yeah I'm okay Alex, just... Can't sleep." You sighed.

"Have you spoken to doctor Beck? I am sure we have sleep medication on board."

"Oh I know... I just don't really want to bother him, you know? I mean, we're all going through it right now..." You shifted under his gaze.

"You are having bad dreams," Vogel stated. "You're afraid if you sleep, they will come back."

"How could you tell?" You peeked tiredly up at him.

"My little monkeys... before I left, some of them had bad dreams. A father can always tell." He sat down beside you at the table.

You felt your eyes burning again. You hadn't dared ask for comfort from your crew mates, not even Chris. Now that you were receiving it, you wished you had asked for it long ago. There was a hellish cocktail of emotions running through you: relief, sadness, safety, longing, despair. You were so relieved that Alex was here. You were sad to think about how deeply his loved ones must be missing him. You thought about what Alex said about his "little monkeys." Mark would have made a great father if he'd only had the chance.

"You love him. Very much," Vogel said.

"I did..." You whispered.

"You do." Alex grabbed your hand and the tears poured from your eyes. "You do..."

"I do," You let out a choked sob. Vogel pulled you into a gentle hug.

"This pain of loss we feel... It will never go away. But it will get easier to live with as time goes by. This, I promise is true."

"Thank you Alex." You whispered.

"You're welcome..." He patted your back and pulled away. "Now, shall we try some rest?"

"I'll try," you put on a brave face.

"And- what is it?-" He thought aloud. "When first you don't succeed-"

"Try try again," You said with a sad smile. "Words to live by."

~~~

LOG ENTRY: SOL 23

So, I'm still brain storming the whole, "Mark Watney can only really make his potato farm last 90 days," problem. Can't say It's going too well. I'm surrounded by the stench of my own shit. Kinda distracting.

I've made the executive decision to take a long overdue break out in the rover. Sure, logically I know I should probably utilize every spare second on planning my survival right down to the last drop of water, but riddle me this: just who is gonna stop me? Not NASA, that's for sure.

It's funny. I came into the rover to escape the rancid poop smell, but it seems to have followed me. Turns out, I was the poop smell all along! If Y/N were here, they would have forcibly shoved me into the shower. They'd say something like... "Don't even think about touching me until you smell like ocean breeze!" (What does ocean breeze even smell like? How do you smell a breeze?...)There are few things in life Y/N hates more than stink. Me being on Mars is probably one of them.

What I would give to see you right now. Even just a dream would be nice, but I guess that's asking too much.

I miss my parents a lot. Maybe that's an understatement. I haven't really let myself think about it, but sitting here in this cramped rover really has my mind wandering. I really should have told them about Y/N. Maybe if things don't work out for me, they could confide in each other.

I don't have much else to say. The calculations aren't done and quite frankly, I'm depressed.

I'll probably scrub this log from the system, It's kind of a downer.

~~~

You had been doing better. Getting at least 6 hours of sleep a day was an accomplishment and you were eating your meals, but a certain date on the calendar was growing closer. You made yourself busier and busier, but no amount of work would keep this day from coming.

LOG ENTRY: SOL 62

On Earth it's January 8th, which is a very special day. Our anniversary! It's official, we've been together for three years! Yeah, yeah I hear you. These logs are for work purposes only, but I promise no one's gonna see this one. Not even you.

I think about that day a lot. It was freezing outside and snowing everywhere. I don't even remember why we walked to the cafe that day, but I'm thankful for it. You were holding your hot cup so tightly and your coat wasn't nearly thick enough for the weather. You were complaining that the snow came early and I laughed at you.

I think we both knew for a long time that this would happen. A year at least. We kept ourselves just at arms length, on the brink of lovers without ever crossing that line. We never discussed it before, but we knew once the mission was over, we'd do it. We'd take that step.

I had wanted to kiss you all day. Want isn't really the word for it. How about craved. Desired? Yearned~

I wrapped my coat around you and you complained again, said that I'd catch a cold and it would all be your fault. The way you looked at me... Still gives me chills when I think about it. It's like I'm still standing on that sidewalk, snowflakes landing on my nose.

I told you, "I can think of something that'll warm us both up..."

You said, "Then what are you waiting for?"

I was right of course. I always am. I just didn't expect you to be so... magnetizing! Like damn babe, you had me weak in the knees! (What am I, a Disney princess?)

I'll be back with you someday. It'll be your anniversary present from me. You're welcome in advance. XOXO - World's Handsomest Boyfriend.

-P.S. You left your deodorant in the Hab. I've been using it. Totally not creepy.

-P.P.S. Who's the stinky one now?

-P.P.P.S. You better be prepared, when I get off this wasteland of a planet, I'm making up for lost time. You aren't gonna be able to walk for AT LEAST a week.

-P.P.P.P.S. I was talking about CUDDLING you perv~

(or was I? ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°))

~~~

This had to be one of the greatest days in Mark Watney's life.

Contact.

Sweet, sweet contact!

[11:18]JPL: Mark, This is Venkat Kapoor. We've been watching you since Sol 49. The whole world's been rooting for you. Amazing job, getting Pathfinder. We're working on rescue plans. JPL is adjusting Ares 4's MDV to do a short overland flight. They'll pick you up, then take you with them to Schiaparelli. We're putting together a supply mission to keep you fed until Ares 4 arrives.

Watney could hardly believe it! Everything was working! They had known he was alive since Sol 49! His eyes were brimming and his breathing came out in short gasps as he fought to control himself. He used to take messages for granted, now they're the only tether he has to humanity.

He's not alone anymore.

His hands shook as he wrote out his message.

[11:29]Watney: Glad to hear it. Really looking forward to not dying. I want to make it clear it wasn't the crew's fault. What did they say when they found out I was alive?

Mark shifted in his seat. The reply was taking a bit longer than expected. He hadn't talked to anyone in so long. The thought of being so close, only to fail right in the beginning was terrifying. He wasn't sure he could survive that kind of disappointment.

[11:48]JPL: We haven't told the crew you're alive yet. We wanted them to focus on their own mission.

What. The. Fuck.

Mark covered his face with his hands and released a frustrated groan. "You've got to be shitting me!"

You didn't know. You didn't know he was alive.

"What the fuck? Wha... What the fuck?!" He took a shaky breath and wrestled with his frustration.

[12:05]Watney: They don't know I'm alive? What the fuck? WTF? Seriously! What the fuck is wrong with you?

[12:23]JPL: Please watch your language. Everything you type is being broadcast live all over the entire world.

They did not just say that.

After everything he has been through, there is no way JPL just told him to watch his language.

So, that's how they want to play it, huh?

[12:42]Watney: Fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck fuck shit fuck shit fuck! Fuck fuckity fuckfuckfuck! Oh look! A pair of boobs!-> (.Y.) How's that for watching my language, you goddamned bureaucratic felchers!

NASA got the message loud and clear.

~~~

Four months passed and you fell into a routine. Wake up, eat, work, sleep, repeat. It was predictable, which was something you were thankful for.

You took on Watney's role as the ship's botanist. You weren't as good as him, but really, who was? You couldn't match his skill even if you tried. Still, you followed all of his experiments. Took diligent notes and snapped as many pictures as you could.

Martinez joked that you took better care of the plants than yourself. It was one of those jokes meant to expose an underlying issue: You weren't looking after yourself. There was a shadow hanging over everything you did. The crew was experiencing it too. Mark Watney was one of a kind. Everyone he touched felt his loss so viscerally, so deeply.

You needed time, just like Vogel said. But that didn't mean everyone had to be okay with you beating yourself up like this.

Lewis knew better than anyone how you were feeling. As the Commander, she should have tried a little harder. And you... You were right there in arm's reach. Yes, Lewis knew how you felt only too well.

You heard a faint Knock in the doorway. You looked up from the camera and met Beck's eyes.

"Data dump will be completed soon. Care to join?" He smiled.

You managed a smile back, "Yeah, sure. I'm hoping I got something from my siblings. Maybe my niece and nephew too." You strapped the camera to the wall so it wouldn't float away, then you pushed yourself toward your crewmate.

"How about your parents?" He asked.

"Oh, that's a given. I can't get them to leave me alone," you chuckled.

You floated down to Semicone-A, where everyone else was already waiting for the data dump.

"Is it here yet?" Beck asked.

"Almost, it's at ninety-eight percent." Johanssen shot him a grin.

"You're looking cheerful, Martinez," Beck laughed.

"My son turned three yesterday." He beamed. Should be some pics of the party. How about you?"

"Oh, nothing special. Just some peer reviews of a paper I wrote a few years back."

"Complete," Johanssen said. "All the personal e-mails are dispatched to your laptops. Also there's a telemetry update for Vogel and a system update for me....Huh.... There's a voice message addressed to the whole crew."

"Play it." Lewis shrugged. Everyone gathered around the screen as Beth pressed play.

"Hermes, this is Mitch Henderson," the message started.

"Henderson? Talking directly to us without CAPCOM?"

Lewis raised her hand to signal silence.

"I have some news. There's no subtle way to put this:.....Mark Watney's still alive."

Your stomach dropped.

"Wha-" Beck choked.

"I know that's a surprise. And I know you'll have a lot of questions. We're going to answer those questions. But for now I'll just give you the basics. He's alive and healthy. We found out two months ago and decided not to tell you. I was strongly against all that. We're telling you now because we finally have communication with him and a viable rescue plan. It boils down to Ares 4 picking him up with a modified MDV. We'll get you a full write-up of what happened, but it's definitely not your fault. Mark stresses that every time it comes up."

You clenched your eyes shut as they burned painfully with tears.

"Take some time to absorb this. Your science schedules are cleared for tomorrow. Send all the questions you want and we'll answer them. Henderson out."

Silence fell over the bridge.

"He...He's alive?" Martinez beamed.

"He lives." Vogel nodded excitedly and squeezed your shoulder.

"Holy shit!" Beck laughed. "Holy shit! Commander! He's alive!"

"I left him behind," Lewis muttered.

You covered your eyes with your hands, fighting to stay quiet.

"No, hey... we all left togeth-"

"You followed orders...I left him behind. In a barren, unreachable, godforsaken wasteland." Lewis scowled and trudged off the bridge.

Everyone stood around the console. The tension was so thick you could cut it with a knife.

"Y/N?" Chris asked softly.

"Are you okay?" Beth added.

You shook your head. You couldn't look at any of them right now.

"I need a minute..." you said softly before hurrying back out of the Semicone. You retreated back to the comfort of the botany lab. It was all so much to process.

First Mark is dead, you left him behind to die. Then Mark is alive, you left him behind to die. He doesn't want you to blame yourselves, it was terrible luck. He's healthy. He can contact Earth. Mars is a desolate planet. He's all alone. On an entire planet. You left him there. He will never be safe until he's back on Earth soil. It will be four years until Ares 4 arrives.

He will be alone on Mars for four years.

You left him there.

~~~

Y/N,

I'm typing this letter to you because talking to you relaxes me. I won't actually be sending this to you. It's not going to be professional in nature like the other notes I've sent you. (JPL says that you have received all of them, but have neglected to send me any of your responses. The only one I have gotten from any of the crew was one from Lewis. She invited me for beer to make up for leaving me on Mars.)

Anyway, some bad stuff happened. I wish you were here. Not because I want you to have been launched by an airlock. Never that. I just really fucking miss you. I really need you right now. I almost died last night. I had to do some serious surgery on my suit to keep me alive and I had to sift through the dilapidated remnants of the Hab to find a new one.

I'm so tired. I just want you to hold me. I'm so sick of all of this. Fuck Mars, Fuck the Hab. I'm so sick and tired of getting my hopes up and being disappointed. I miss you so much. You make every one of my bad days good. I know if you were here, everything would be okay again.

Why did this have to happen?

Mars keeps throwing curve balls at me, but I'm not giving up. I've got a lot to look forward to and I'm trying to focus on that.

-Mark

P.S. Your bed stopped smelling like you a month ago.

~~~

The crew of Ares 3 met in the Rec. A secret message had arrived not even an hour ago. One that would alter their mission by 533 extra days.

"Are we going to do it?" Johanssen asked.

"I won't lie, I'd sure as hell like to. But this isn't a normal decision. This is something NASA expressly rejected. We're talking about mutiny. And that's not a word I throw around lightly," Lewis explained. "We'll only do it if we all agree. And before you answer, consider the consequences. If we mess up the supply rendezvous, we die. If we mess up the Earth gravity assist, we die. If we do everything correctly, we add 533 days to our mission. 533 days of unplanned space travel where anything could go wrong. Maintenance will be a hassle. Something might break that we can't fix. If it's life-critical, we die."

"Sign me up!" Martinez announced, causing you to smile. At least someone else was as enthusiastic to bring Mark home as you were.

"Easy, cowboy. You and I are military. There's a good chance we'd be court-martialed when we get home. As for the rest of you, I guarantee they'll never send you up again," Lewis said.

"If we do this," Vogel looked to you and back at Lewis. "It would mean over one thousand days of space. This is enough space for a life. I do not need to return."

You couldn't have possibly said it better yourself. It was like Alex was reading your mind.

"Sounds like Vogel's in. Me too obviously," Martinez laughed.

"Let's do it," Beck agreed.

"If you think it'll work, I trust you," Johanssen said.

Lewis nodded and turned to you. "Y/L/N?"

"You don't even need to ask me. Let's go get our boy," You smiled.

Wow. This is the first time you've smiled... a real smile, since leaving Mars.

'Hang in there babe,' You thought. 'I'm on my way.'

~~~

LOG ENTRY: SOL 192-2

Yep, another secret letter do my dear, long lost love~ How predictable. I don't really care, today's been a great day. I can't believe you're coming back for me! Here I was, thinking I'd have to survive without you for four years. Then there you go, riding in from the sunset to bring me home.

Logically I know the rest of the crew had something to do with it, but I kind of like the idea that maybe I am a Disney princess and you're my knight in shining armor coming to rescue me.

It's like the story of Rapunzel, except my tower is a whole planet and instead of catching my hair, you're catching my MAV. Now that I think about it, the stories are more different than they are similar.

That hardly matters though, what does matter is that for the first time I actually feel like I'll survive. I trust our team with every fiber of my being, but most of all I trust you. I'm gonna rest easy tonight. And in the morning I'll start my work on the rovers!

See you in about a year babe! I'll be counting down the hours. Literally.

LOG ENTRY: SOL 426

Happy anniversary Y/N! You thought I'd forget? Never! You know why that is? Because I fucking love you, that's why!

Four years we've been together as of today, that's assuming we are counting the year we've been apart as "being together", (which I do.) Today I'm really beating myself up over frying Pathfinder with my drill all those months ago. It was my only form of communication with you and I royally fucked it up.

You'd think that cutting myself off from Earth, NASA and humanity at large would be what upset me the most. Nope, it's the fact that I can't send you a super sneaky secret anniversary e-mail. I also missed my parents' birthdays, your birthday, Christmas AND Thanksgiving. Twice. Also, fucking Valentine's day! I used to hate that holiday before I met you.

Anyway, as you can see, I totally have all my priorities in order! Also! I got you a present~ Since you have no way to read this, I don't feel bad spoiling it for you. I found a little rock. It's in the shape of a heart.

Awwww wow! That's cute, I just realized that I'm giving you my heart for our anniversary! To be honest, you had it a long time ago.

I miss you. I miss your smell, your eyes, the feel of your skin. Most of all, I really, really miss your voice. I just want to hear you. I've forgotten what you sound like. I'm scared If I didn't have this picture of you and your brother, I'd forget what your face looks like too.

I'm starting my long commute to Schiaparelli in 23 days. It'll be a two month drive. I really hate driving in the rover. But if it gets me to you, who cares? I'm stalling. I've got a lot of work tomorrow and I just want to enjoy today. I wish I was there with you to enjoy it obviously, but we can't all get what we want (least of all, me.) I've learned how to settle.

Speaking of settling, what do you think about getting married in the woods, or a big grassy field? I'd like there to be as much green as possible. No red or orange, we're talking the opposite side of the color wheel here. I can picture you walking down the aisle. I'll be an absolute mess, but who cares. You're the love of my life. Thanks for, y'know, coming back to pick me up instead of leaving me to die on Mars.

I hope you like the rock.

-Mark

P.S. I grew a beard and my hair looks like the 80's had a baby with a grease monster. You'd hate it.

P.P.S. I hope you're into pirates~

P.P.P.S. Y/N Watney... Mark Y/L/N... hmmmmm, so hard to choose!

P.P.P.P.S. We are never eating potatoes again.

P.P.P.P.P.S And ABSOLUTELY NO DISCO MUSIC!

~~~

You stared at Mars creeping back into view. The last time you were here, Mark was sitting beside you, arm around your waist, your head on his shoulder. Maybe it wasn't your most subtle of moments, but how could anyone not be enthralled by the beauty of the red planet? Even now it was hard not to feel stricken with wonder.

Sometimes your mind played tricks on you. You'd see a speck of dust on the window and think you could see Watney on the surface. That was ridiculous of course, There is no possible way to see an individual person this far out. That didn't stop you from imagining it.

NASA had briefed everyone on the Martian's health, explained that he wouldn't look the same as the last time you saw him. You expected as much, but the thought still worried you. It wasn't that you were worried if you'd still find him attractive, there was no force on Earth or beyond that could change how much you loved Mark Watney. It was his health that worried you.

During all your back and forth questions with NASA that Henderson had arranged, you inquired about his health. They said he was doing well, but that he was stretching his little amount of food to its limits. That's what scared you the most. How would his immune system fare? How would he acclimate back to normal food on Earth? All of these questions went unanswered. NASA was honest, "we won't know for sure until he gets here."

"Mind if I join you?" Lewis asked softly, floating a short distance away.

"Of course Commander. I'd like the company," You said. It was surprising to realize you actually meant it. It'd been awhile since you wanted to spend time with anyone.

Melissa floated further into the cupola and settled beside you.

"Crazy to think that in a few days he'll be up here with us again..." Lewis said softly.

"Yeah..." you said softly, keeping your eyes ahead.

"I know how much you miss him... You two were always great friends."

You swallowed hard and tried to ignore the pit in your stomach as you nodded. "Yeah..."

You could see Lewis looking at you out of the corner of your eye. Her expression was conflicted. "I'm really sorry this happened. I know it's been hard on you. I should have searched a little longer-"

"Commander." You stopped her from continuing. "You did all you could. You made the right decision. I wish none of this had happened, but none of this was your fault. It couldn't have been easy to make the choice, and I'm willing to bet that if I were in your shoes, I wouldn't have been strong enough to do it. I'm sure everyone else feels the same exact way, Mark included." You placed a hand on her shoulder.

"Thanks, that's... Thank you," Melissa smiled.

"We're a team, that's what we do. We keep each other grounded."

"That's actually sort of what I wanted to talk to you about..."

"What do you mean?"

"NASA just sent the message a few minutes ago. They're letting us talk to Watney... Directly," Lewis said. You blinked in surprise. No matter how many times you asked, NASA wouldn't allow any kind of direct communication. You wondered why the sudden change of heart.

"Henderson thinks we need to remind him of what he has to look forward to, keep his eyes on the prize so to speak. At least, that's how he's been pitching it to the director. Anyway, the rest of the crew and I agree you should be the one to do it," she finished.

"R-really? I can talk to him?" You asked hopefully, hoping this wasn't a dream.

"Y/N, I can't think of anyone else he would need to hear from more."

~~~

Mark was waiting by the coms in the MAV for any final updates from NASA regarding the meticulous destruction of his ship, piece by piece. He had just finished taking out the main window and it was heavy as hell, even in Mars gravity. He was happy he at least had some time to rest after all that hard work. If he was lucky, maybe they'd wait too long and it would be too dark to get any work done. He could use a good sleep, it seemed like he was needing it more and more lately. Watney suddenly heard the telltale beeps that signaled an incoming message. He was expecting a barrage of questions about his progress, instead he got something so much better.

[19:22] Y/L/N: Hey, Mark.

Mark's voice got caught in his throat.

Y/N.

It had been so fucking long since he talked to you. His eyes burned and his hands shook. Watney leaned his head back in relief, thanking god for this incredible gift. "I just about gave up on you man..." Mark smiled to the sky before nervously typing back.

[19:23] MAV: Y/N!? Holy crap! They're finally letting you talk to me directly?

You released a sigh and covered your face with your hands. He was responding! Really responding! Everyone was looking at you. Beck beamed at you while Martinez watched on with interest. Lewis was waiting to see if you could handle it. No way you were gonna let this one chance slip through your fingers. You sniffed and wiped your eyes before responding.

[19:24] Y/L/N: Yes, NASA just gave the OK for direct communication an hour ago. We're only 35 light-seconds apart, so we can talk in near-real time. Johanssen just set up the system and I'm testing it out.

Mark sighed and smiled. Level headed and professional as always. How you had such self control, he had no idea.

[19:24] MAV: What took them so long to let us talk?

You looked up at Lewis, silently asking if you could relay the truth. She nodded.

[19:25] Y/L/N: The psych team was worried about personality conflicts. [19:25] MAV: Why? Just 'cause you guys abandoned me on a godforsaken planet with no chance of survival?

Mark typed without thinking and as soon as he hit send, he regretted it. He didn't want you to feel bad, It was a joke. You'd understand that right?

[19:26] Y/L/N: Not funny. Don't make me come down there and kick you.

Watney let out a choked laugh. Half a chuckle and half a sob.

[19:26] MAV: God I missed you.

You smiled at the screen and pushed down the urge to hug Martinez behind you. You were really talking to him! He was only 35 light-seconds away! Suddenly you realized you were blessed with an opportunity even more amazing than just talking with him. You could ask him what you had been asking in all of your disregarded emails!

[19:27] Y/L/N: We missed you too. I've had to take over the botany lab. You'll be happy to know I haven't killed any of your plants...Yet. How are you feeling? We've gotten a few updates from NASA regarding your health, but nothing in incredible detail.

Watney chuckled at the text appearing in front of him. 'Cute,' he thought.

[19:27] MAV: Awwww, are you worried about me?

The crew laughed and you shook your head, swiftly adding your response.

[19:28] Y/L/N: Do I really need to answer that?

Mark snickered and decided not to tease you. He wanted to tell you all of his woes and adequately prepare you for how much he had changed. But he didn't want to put a damper on the mood. Luckily, Watney was a master at sugarcoating.

[19:29] MAV: I'm doing okay. My clothing feels a little loose and I'm craving spaghetti. I'm also in desperate need of a shower. Other than that, I'm just fine. Looking forward to seeing you and the rest of the crew.

Your smile fell. You were happy he was being at least somewhat honest, but you knew it was probably worse than he was making out to be. Unfortunately, Watney was a master at sugarcoating.

[19:29] Y/L/N: We're looking forward to seeing you too. I think it's safe to say a big group hug is in order, if I can get Vogel in on it that is.

Watney hummed at the thought of holding you in his arms. The image was so clear, yet so far away.

[19:30] MAV: At this point, I'd even settle for holding hands. Group hug sounds nice. How are you doing Y/N? I wrote you a lot of emails.

You grimaced and thought your next words through very carefully. With the crew watching, it was hard to collect your thoughts.

[19:31] Y/L/N: I wrote you plenty of my own. There was only so much air time to be used outside of helping you survive. My guess is they put priority on Commander Lewis' emails. Rightfully so of course. I'm doing fine. I've missed you a lot. To be honest, a lot is probably a huge understatement. It's hard to express exactly what I want to say over message.

Mark nodded. You watched him presumably die, leave his 'body' behind, mourn his loss over a period of months, find out you left him there alive, be unable to talk to him for about a year, and suddenly he was here reading and responding to your messages, but you have to limit the details so as to keep those private thoughts private. He couldn't imagine what he would do if the roles were reversed. What you wanted to say needed to be kept between you and him. He understood. There was a lot he wanted to say too.

[19:32] MAV: I know what you mean. I'll be there soon, then you can tell me all about it in person. And I'll tell you all about my space crops and my long voyage to the MAV. Have I mentioned I'm a space pirate?

The crew laughed and for a moment, it felt like he was there. Really there.

[19:33] Y/L/N: Good to know you're still the funniest person on Mars. [19:33] MAV: Thanks! [19:33] MAV: Wait a minute! Rude! Don't make me come up there! [19:34] Y/L/N: Don't threaten me with a good time, Watney. [19:34] MAV: ;)

You were about to make some really elaborate emoji out of parentheses and dots, when you saw a notification from NASA. Playtime was over. You scowled as you broke the news to your boyfriend.

[19:34] Y/L/N: I hate to cut this short, but NASA wants us to keep the line open. We'll be in touch asking for updates on your progress, but don't expect too much witty banter.

Mark's heart sank a little, but there was no use in leaving such a perfect night on a sour note.

[19:35] MAV: Figures. NASA never lets me do anything fun! Tell the others I said hi. [19:36] Y/L/N: I'll be sure to pass it along!

Mark's leg tapped nervously. He knew NASA was right about keeping the line open, but he really didn't want it to end yet.

[19:36] MAV: Hey, thanks for coming to get my sorry ass. [19:36] Y/L/N: No thanks necessary. We'd do it a million times over.

Watney knew you meant it. He could feel the warmth through the bland MAV text on the screen. He couldn't wait to be up there with you...But what if something went wrong? Fuck, don't think about this now! Everything's going to be fine! Right? But what if... There was always a chance, especially on Mars, that things would not go your way. And the likelihood of him surviving this mission was slim at best. He needed to tell you. He should have said it a lot more. A whisper here and there in the hallways, maybe some stupid middle school secret code. Like hell he was going to pass up this one chance, consequences be damned.

[19:37] MAV: I love you, Y/N.

Your heart lurched in your chest. The room fell silent. Martinez lightly squeezed your shoulder. Your eyes flitted around the room to your colleagues. All of them stared with bewildered looks on their faces. What were you supposed to say? What if you got him in trouble? If he was worried about that, why would he send this in the first place?

'You know what, Fuck it,' you thought.

Watney watched the screen with baited breath. "Please..." He whispered. "Please."

[19:38] Y/L/N: I love you too Mark. Sleep well, we'll be there before you know it.

Mark released a cry of joy and typed through the tears.

[19:39] MAV: You too. Goodnight. [19:39] Y/L/N: Goodnight, Mark.

The line received no new messages after that. Mark rested there a moment before retreating back to the rover. Once the airlock had engaged, he removed his helmet and admired the picture of you and your brother he had taped to the rover computer.

He used to take those words for granted. Why say it when you could show it? He showed it to you as often as he could... At least he used to. You never made him question it for a second. You gave him compliments, brought him water on late nights, listened to his nerdy ramblings about plants and D&D. He'd help you to bed when you were too tired to stand, work out the knots in your shoulders while you typed. Over a year has passed and your grip on his heart is still firm. And when you said those three little words, all of it made sense again. Mark Watney would never again question the power of I love you. He was going to remind you every chance he got. He was going to ask you for it as often as possible. His mom and dad would hear it in every phone call, and no more excluding his friends. He loved them too. He would say it until the term loses all meaning, then he'd remember this night where I love you saved his life.

Mark took off his gloves and danced his thin fingers over the photograph.

"See you soon, baby..." He whispered, "I love you."

~~~

You pulled on your headset and took a deep, self soothing breath. In an hour, the love of your life was going to be launched into Mars's orbit in what could barely be considered a MAV. The thing was a Frankenstein version of the shuttle you had taken off the planet nearly two years ago.

You shook your head. What Mark needed right now was confidence. You could do that.

"How you feeling Y/L/N?" Martinez smiled over at you.

"Like I'm gonna throw up," You laughed.

"Anxious huh?" He smirked, "For the launch, or for your man?"

"Both," You smacked his arm and rolled your eyes. Martinez and Beck hadn't stopped giving you crap for the I love you texts. You didn't mind too much, it was nice being able to acknowledge that side of your relationship with Mark. Unfortunately it made for some rather awkward conversations with the NASA administrators.

"You got nothing to worry about, he's in good hands," Rick said reassuringly.

"I know, we're all badass trained professionals with years of experience," you chuckled. "I can't help it. I'm built to worry."

"You've checked and double checked the telemetry. Johanssen confirmed all of your calculations. It's going to be a smooth ride for sure."

"I'll believe it when I see it."

//////////

Mark scowled at his reflection in the mirror and stroked his beard. He looked like shit, no way around it. He hadn't taken a moment to really look at himself for a long time and he couldn't say he liked what he saw.

"It's the end of an era," Watney said to nobody as he grabbed the razor. "No more captain blonde-beard."

Mark took his time shaving his chin and trimming the hair on his head. By the end of it, he still looked like shit but slightly less so. He felt a little more like himself at least.

He patted his chest to make sure the picture was still there, tucked under his uniform. It was there, along with his anniversary present to you. He slipped the headset over his ears and turned it on. It was nearly time to go. Watney pulled the suit on over his head and double checked if it was all on securely.

"I'm leaving Mars today, one way or another..." He whispered. "About fucking time."

//////////

"Fuel engine green," Your voice seemed to cause time itself to slow down. Not just for Mark, but for the entire world. "Engine alignment, perfect." Mark closed his eyes took a series of deep breaths, trying in vain to keep his emotions in check. "Communications five by five. We are ready for preflight checklist, Commander."

"Copy." Lewis said. "Mission Control, this is Hermes actual. We will proceed on schedule. we have T minus two minutes, ten seconds to launch... Mark." The commander turned her attention to the man of the hour. "About two minutes Watney. How you doing down there?"

"I'm good." He swallowed the lump that was forming in his throat. "I'm anxious to get up to you. Thanks for coming back for me."

You sniffed and shot a smile to Johanssen, who sent you a grin of her own.

"We're going to make it happen. Remember, You'll be pulling some pretty heavy g's. It's okay if you pass out. You're in Martinez's hands."

"Well, tell that asshole no barrel rolls."

"Copy that, MAV."

"CAPCOM."

"Go," you said.

Mark's bottom lip quivered

"Guidance."

"Go," Johanssen said.

"Remote Command."

"Go," Martinez said.

"Telemetry."

"Go," you said again.

He couldn't fight it anymore, he let the tears fall.

"Recovery."

"Go," Beck said.

"Secondary Recovery."

"Go," Vogel said.

"Pilot."

Mark steadied his voice before speaking, "go."

"Mission control, we are go for launch. T minus ten," You said.

"Nine."

"Eight."

"Seven."

"Six."

"Five."

Mark closed his eyes and focused on your voice. "See you in a few, baby..." He whispered.

"Four."

"Three."

"Two."

"One."

The force of the blast was incredible, and growing more painful by the second. His breathing came out short and panicked as the Hab canvas rattled nightmarishly against the MAV. His panic only increased as the canvas ripped from the shuttle, exposing him to the full force of the MAV's thrust. He couldn't even scream. All he could do was watch the sky grow darker and darker.

"Watney." He heard your voice from far away.

"Watney, do you read me?" Your voice called again. His eyes drooped and his vision faded.

//////////

"Watney. Do you read?" You asked in the calmest voice you could muster.

"He's probably passed out. He pulled 12 g's on the ascent. Give him a few minutes," Beck said.

"Copy that." You said and turned your attention on the numbers before you. "I have interval pings. Intercept velocity will be eleven meters per second."

"I can make that work," Beck confirmed.

"Distance at intercept will be....we'll be sixty-eight kilometers apart..." You whimpered and buried your face in your hands.

"Did they say sixty-eight Kilometers? Kilometers?!" Beck cried.

"Keep it together, work the problem. Martinez, any juice left in the MAV?" Lewis asked.

"Negative, Commander."

"Then we'll have to go to him. Y/L/N, time to intercept?"

"Thirty-nine minutes, twelve seconds," You steeled yourself and focused on your coordinates.

"Martinez, what if we point the attitude thrusters all the same direction?" Lewis asked.

"Depends on how much we want to save for the attitude adjustments on the trip home."

"How much do you need?"

"I could get by with maybe twenty percent of what's left. If I use the other eighty percent... We'd get a delta-v of thirty-one meters per second."

"Y/L/N, Math."

"In thirty-nine minutes, we'd deflect....seventy-two kilometers! Use seventy-five point five percent of remaining attitude adjust fuel. That'll bring the intercept range to zero," You did the math quickly.

"Do it." Lewis said.

"Hold your horses, that'll get the range to zero, but the velocity will be forty-two meters per second."

"Then we have thirty-nine minutes to figure out how to slow down. Burn the jets."

//////////

Mark awoke to find himself spinning. Flashes of stars and the red glow of the Martian surface had him feeling a little dizzy. "MAV to Hermes?"

"Watney?" You gasped.

"Affirmative," he grunted.

"What's your status?" You asked calmly.

"Uhhh..." He winced and leaned back in his seat. "My chest hurts. I think I broke a rib. How are you, sweetheart?" He groaned.

"We're working on getting to you," you relayed. "There was a complication in the launch."

"Yeah," Watney dejectedly looked at the massive hole in the roof of his ship. "The canvas didn't hold. I think it ripped early in the ascent."

"That's consistent with what we saw during the launch," Lewis agreed.

"How bad is it, Commander?" he asked.

"We were able to correct the intercept range with Hermes's attitude thrusters, but there's a problem with the intercept velocity."

"How big a problem."

"Forty-two meters per second."

"Well..." Mark paused and tried to wrap his head around that number. "Shit."

//////////

You typed furiously, staring at your screen unblinkingly as you worked through all the possible ways to bring down the velocity.

"Hey, I've got an idea," Watney said.

"Of course you do, what have you got?" Lewis asked.

"I could find something sharp in here and poke a hole in my EVA suit. I could use the escaping air as a thruster and fly my way to you. The source of thrust would be on my arm, so I'd be able to control it pretty easily."

"How does he come up with this shit?" Martinez laughed.

"I can't see you having any control if you did. You'd be eyeballing the intercept using a thrust vector you can barely control."

"I admit it's fatally dangerous, but consider this: I'd get to fly around like Iron Man."

"We'll keep working on ideas," Lewis said.

"Iron Man, Commander. Iron Man."

"Stand by," Lewis temporarily cut contact with Watney.

You furrowed your brows at the screen, waiting for the correct course of action to jump out at you. Suddenly, there it was. "Wait! that's it!" you looked back at the Commander. "Mark's a genius! We could use the ship's atmosphere as thrust. We could blow the vehicular airlock. Seal the bridge and the reactor room. Iron Man... But bigger!"

"....." Melissa stared at you for a moment before addressing Alex. "Vogel?"

"Yes commander?"

"I need you to come inside and make a bomb," she ordered.

~~~

"I have visual, I can see the MAV," Beck said. "Jesus Mark, what did you do to that thing?"

"You should see the rover," Mark radioed. He was ready to get out of his goddamned chair, ready to get away from this hunk of junk that could barely be considered a MAV.

"Call out my velocity to Mark every two seconds or so," Chris said.

"Copy." You responded.

"Hey Beck, the front's wide open. I'll get up there and be ready to grab at you." Watney said.

"Negative, no untethered movement. Stay strapped to your chair until you're attached to Beck."

"Copy." Mark huffed. Lewis was right, impatience would be the death of him out here and he had come too far to die now. Instead, he focused on your voice calling out the relative velocity.

"Three point one meters per second."

"Eleven meters to target."

"Six meters."

"Contact." Beck grabbed the canvas of the destroyed MAV. "Firm contact."

"You have fourteen seconds Dr. Beck."

"Copy."

Nothing could have prepared Watney for how he'd feel seeing Beck's helmet poking through the opening.

Pure. Unadulterated. Serotonin.

"Visual on Watney!"

"Visual on Beck!"

"How ya doin' man?" Beck pushed himself toward Mark, meanwhile Mark was trying not to have another emotional breakdown.

"I....I just...Give me a minute, you're the first person I've seen in eighteen months," Watney croaked.

"We don't have a minute," Beck clumsily collided with Mark. "Contact with Watney... Connected!"

"Restraints off," Watney called.

"We're outta here!"

//////////

"Houston, this is Hermes actual. Seven crew safely aboard," Lewis's voice echoed in your mind as you, Martinez, Johanssen, and Lewis pushed yourselves toward the airlock where Vogel and Beck were bringing him in.

Mark.

You could see his dusty helmet from the small window on the airlock. Already you were feeling an overwhelming ache deep in your chest. There he was, only a few feet away, behind this door. Your crewmates flew in and clambered for Watney.

"Hey guys!" He laughed.

You were frozen in the doorway.

His helmet came off.

Everything slowed down.

Everyone was smiling and laughing. High fiving. Quick hugs. They all wanted to get as far away from the smell as they could.

Your eyes met.

There were beads of what looked like water floating in the air. When did you start crying?

Mark held out his arms to you and you wasted no more time. He hugged you as tightly as he could with the bulky arms of his EVA suit. His face buried into your neck as he cried softly. "Y/N...." He whispered in a broken voice. "Y-Y/N?"

"I'm right here Mark... Right here." You cradled the back of his head, scratching that spot at the base of his neck. He always liked it when you did that

"I stink, don't I?" Watney laughed in between sobs.

"You do. You really do," You tried to keep up the joke. "But if im being completely honest, I couldn't possibly care less," you laughed.

Slowly, you pulled back so you could get a good look at his face. He was thin. Gaunt, and covered in bed sores. That should have been expected of course, It's not like he had anywhere to shower in the rover. He looked at you like you were an angel. He looked embarrassed, like he wanted to hide.

Your fingers danced over his cheek and his eyes fluttered closed at the tenderness. The crew watched on with pride and varying degrees of bashfulness.

Mark opened his eyes and stared at you pleadingly as orbs of tears flowed from their corners. "Y/N... Please..." He whispered.

You didn't hesitate for a second.

You grabbed the sides of Mark's face and smashed your lips against his. So soft... your hands are so soft and your lips are trembling. The heat of your skin, the scent of your hair. It was even better than he remembered. He couldn't breathe, he could barely even think. He wanted so desperately to kiss you back, to fall into your embrace until there's no space left between, but his ribs hurt like hell and his suit was in the way. Mark whimpered as your fingers tangled into his hair. Fuck. Fuck. 'Everything hurts baby, please don't stop kissing me,' he pleaded in his head. 'Don't stop.'

When you started pulling away, he reached out to pull you closer again, but winced when he moved his arm.

"Slow down, baby." You breathed and pressed a little smooch to his forehead.

"Alright love birds, I need to get Iron Man over here to sick bay."

"But-" Watney protested.

"No buts, you need an X-ray and a shower. Maybe three." Beck laughed.

Mark looked at you pleadingly and you caressed his face. "I'll be by once Beck fixes you up. I gotta help check the ship for damage. Okay?"

He nodded and smiled. "Don't miss me too much~"

"You seek the impossible, Watney." You kissed his forehead again and let Chris lead your Martian down the hall to his quarters.

"Wow," Martinez said "I can't decide if that was incredibly romantic or incredibly awkward."

"Shut up Martinez," You playfully shoved his shoulder.

"Honestly though, he smells terrible! You've got some nerves of steel, Y/L/N," Johanssen joked.

"My boyfriend just spent eighteen months alone on a remote planet, If he wants a kiss he's gonna get that goddamned kiss. Definitely not a quick one and definitely not a half-assed one. But I will say one thing," you grinned.

"What's that?" Lewis smirked.

"He's not getting another one until he brushes his teeth."

~~~

Mark settled into his bunk after what felt like hours. He finally had a bath. Five, in fact. The showers were on a timer to conserve water. He had to run that timer five times before he finally felt clean. The water hurt the sores on his skin, but he felt so much better afterward that he almost wanted to go in for a sixth one. Mark brushed his teeth about three times and got rid of all the tangles in his hair. He'd need someone to touch up the cutting job he did. Now that it was all brushed out, it looked astoundingly bad.

After his long grooming session, Beck took an X-ray and determined that he'd broken two ribs. Chris bandaged him up, gave him some pain medicine, made him eat, and sent him to bed for some well deserved rest. At first, Mark protested. He hated the idea of everyone else fixing the ship while their lead engineer was taking a nap. But he was painfully tired and painfully...well... in pain.

Hey! His bunk didn't smell like shit! That's a huge upgrade from his bunk in the Hab- no more thinking about that place.

With a deep groan, Watney eased himself into bed. Weird...his sheets smelled like you. He didn't mind of course, you always smelled nice. He had never been more thankful for the centripetal force spinning the ship. He would have hated having broken ribs in zero g's. He imagined trying to sleep with his body constantly moving ever so slightly. Sounded like hell to him.

Mark wondered what the others were doing. He hoped there wasn't something too terribly wrong with the ship. The subtle groans of metal didn't ease his nerves. He was never scared of the Hermes before, but he was just now coming to terms with that fact that the ship had taken some serious abuse over the past few months, not to mention the past few hours. Normally Hermes would undergo maintenance after each mission, but because they turned around to get him that maintenance was scrapped.

New fear unlocked: Dooming his team to die in space because they had to turn around and get him.

He almost thought the knocking on his door was the hull breaking apart into a billion little bite-sized pieces.

"Come in," he said.

He expected it to be Beck checking in on him, but he was relieved when you poked your head in with a shy smile.

"Heyyyy, look over there! It's the world's handsomest boyfriend!" You said with gusto.

"You are such a kiss ass," Mark laughed, which hurt his ribs, which made him laugh again from how pitiful he must look.

You scoffed as you stepped into his quarters, shutting the door behind you. "You calling me a liar?" you grabbed a loose storage box and used it as a chair so you could sit beside his bed.

"That's exactly what I'm calling you," he smirked. "Seriously. Have you seen me lately? I look like a... a popsicle stick with a bad haircut."

You looked him up and down. His sores looked a lot better after cleaning them. You had no doubt they would heal nicely. The malnourishment on the other hand... That might take some work. You and Beck already had a few dietary plans for him. You discussed it while you reorganized the chow hall. Still, Mark was the most beautiful person you had ever seen. Even now, those alluring blue eyes were mesmerizing you. And let's not forget that goddamned tantalizing smile.

"I'm looking at you right now, babe," You giggled.

"And?"

"You're still as gorgeous as ever. Just a gorgeous man who's been through some shit," you carded your fingers through his hair. Mark hummed and closed his eyes. "How are you feeling?" you whispered.

"Physically or emotionally?"

"Both."

"Emotionally, happy. Very happy. Best day of my life kind of happy," he smiled. "Physically, pretty shitty. The medicine hasn't kicked in."

"Anything I can do to help you feel better?" you asked warmly.

Watney sent you a smug look, "Oh, I can think of a few things that might help~"

"Not until your ribs are healed."

"Damn."

You leaned down and pushed his hair back so you could kiss his forehead. He gave you a dazed grin, "oh, what do you know? I feel better already," he whispered in a gravelly voice. "... I really missed you..."

"I missed you too Mark..."

"I can't believe I can... I can feel you again. I can hear you and see you and feel you... s'insane..." He reached up and cupped your cheek despite the pain. "You were always on my mind. I-I just really wanted... I wanted to make it back to you." He brought his thumb just under your eye to catch a stray tear.

You covered his hand with yours and pressed a kiss to his palm.

"I-I don't even know what to say... I've been feeling so much, I don't know how to... how to-" He swallowed hard.

"Everything's changed so fast," you reassured him. "But we aren't on the messaging system anymore. It's a long journey home, we have plenty of time to find the right words," you continued to run your fingers into his hair.

"I fucking love you... " he closed his eyes and reveled in the feeling of your nails against his scalp. "I'm gonna marry you one day, decided just now."

"Just now?" You snickered.

"No...Realistically, it was the first night we uh... slept together. Do you remember that?" Watney chuckled.

"Of course I do," you smiled, thinking of his messy blonde hair, searing gaze, and strong arms. He took his time with you that night, unhurried, attentive, and unabashedly vocal. "How could I forget?"

Mark shook his head and looked away to hide his blush, but not even his smile could distract you from it. "Sorry, sorry. Go on, continue!"

"Well, I uh..." He let out a sheepish chuckle. "Obviously every part of that night was perfect, but it's what happened after that really changed things."

"Oh?" you leaned closer, curiosity getting the better of you.

"You let me be the little spoon. I'm fine with being the big spoon most of the time, but you gotta be the little spoon sometimes, you know? No one ever let me be the little spoon before you... And when I woke up, you were still holding me." His fingertips danced down your arm, leaving a trail of chills in their wake. Once he reached your hand, Mark intertwined your fingers. It wasn't a conscious movement for him, simply muscle memory. But you couldn't keep your mind off of it. "I know I goof around a lot, but I can't stress how serious I'm being when I say... I have never felt that loved before. It was just... such a perfect night. I knew that you were the one for me well before, but that was the first time I really saw my future flash before my eyes like that."

Your eyes stung a little as you tenderly kissed his lips. "Want to know when I decided?" you whispered against him.

"Please..." He whispered back.

"Remember when I had that terrible flu during the first year of our training program?"

"Oh damn, yeah I do! You looked terrible, baby." Mark teased.

"I felt terrible. I couldn't eat, couldn't sleep, and I definitely couldn't go to lectures... I was so worried about missing, even though the professors agreed there was no way I could come to class. You brought me a copy of your notes. The copy machine in the library was down, so you had to write them by hand... you even filled them with these horrible stick figure drawings," you laughed and Mark brought your knuckles to his lips and watched you, immersed in the sound of your voice. It was like he was trying to commit you to memory. You were doing much the same.

"Anyway, you stayed with me and you made some Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup. You stopped by everyday until I got better."

"We were just friends back then," he whispered against your hand.

"I know, but every time I think about how much I love you... that memory comes back, playing on repeat."

"Say that again."

"That again," you smirked. Mark gave you a sassy eyebrow. "Which part babe?" you laughed.

"The uh..." he trailed off.

You lightly kissed his cheek, "I love you, Mark... I love you so much." You peppered his face with little smooches. When you finally pulled back, he was all red again and teary eyed.

"I love you too, Y/N," He whispered. You sat together in silence for awhile before Mark suddenly remembered something extremely important! "Oh shit! I almost forgot!" He winced as he reached into his pocket. "Happy late four year anniversary!" He finally presented you with his gift.

Your fingers trembled as you took the little rock into your hands. Mark's Martian heart stared back up at you, dusting your palm orange.

"Y-you remembered our anniversary?"

"Of course I remembered! Have I ever forgotten before?" Mark smirked.

"N-no, but..." You couldn't help it, you were crying again god dammit. "Thank you Mark, I love it." You beamed and kissed him so hard he lost his entire train of thought. He sighed and pulled you closer like he had wanted to do hours ago. Fuck. There you go again, playing with his hair like it wasn't going to rile him up. He moaned and reached for your waist, only to be pulled swiftly back to reality by the jarring pain in his abdomen. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry Mark." You pulled away quickly.

"It wasn't you, I was getting too carried away." He winced and took a deep breath. "My bad," Watney laughed.

You sat down on the crate beside his bed and settled for playing with his hand. While you took inventory of every new callus, Mark once again saw his future flash right before his eyes. You and him and that little house with the green shutters. He's gonna have the best garden in the neighborhood, you'll have all the time in the world for reading. No potatoes. No disco.

"Y/N... Can you hold me?"

"Oh baby, I would love to but the beds are so small-"

"Ouch, oof, oh! ow!" He scooted closer to the wall to make room for you.

You sighed and shook your head. "Mark, your ribs-"

"Please..." he whispered. Dammit! What are you supposed to do when he gives you the puppy eyes!? Beck is going to kill you...

"I can't ever say no to you, can I?" You laughed and scooted into the bed. "Seriously, you've got me wrapped around your finger."

Mark smiled as you tucked yourself into his side. He wanted to be the little spoon, but he couldn't turn over so his back was against your chest. He'd just have to heal quickly, then he could freely snuggle, (and do other things) without any constraints!

He turned his head so he could admire your lovely, beautiful face. You were already looking back at him, one hand holding your rock close to your chest, the other was draped carefully over his waist. Mark swears he's never seen anything more breathtaking in his life.

He slowly leaned closer- Fuck! His ribs hurt so bad, where the hell is the Vicodin when you need it?

You gently smoothed out the crease between his brows with your thumb and pushed his hair back again. Mark closed his eyes, succumbing to the bliss that came with knowing he would never be alone again. You kissed him again and pulled his blanket over the both of you.

"I love you, Mark."

"I love you too."

He felt your hand slip under his shirt and onto his stomach. You drew soft shapes onto his skin, but stopped when you felt the scar just above the hem of his pants. It was jagged and angry.

He swallowed.

Much to his surprise and relief, you didn't pull your hand away. You just kept tracing the new territory.

He sighed and kissed your temple. His body shuddered in relief. "Th-this isn't a dream, right? You'll still be here when I wake up?" he whispered.

You peeked your head up and smiled "I'm not going anywhere, I'm afraid you're stuck with me." You leaned in and gave him one more kiss. He smiled into it and finally allowed himself to rest his eyes.

"Don't threaten me with a good time, Y/L/N..."

[myveryownfanfiction]

18+ MINORS AND THOSE WITHOUT AGE IN BIO DNI

tags: @illiana-mystery, @iobsessoverfictionalmen, @psychokinetic-ectoplasm, @lulusplaycorner

chapter 8

warnings: swearing, divorce, suggestive jokes, Roman makes self deprecating jokes (mostly about his weight and money situation), Roman is touch and affection starved, Roman gets drunk, Roman gets jealous

Roman held my hand the entire drive to Chet's house. It was on the other side of the city and Roman apologized several times for taking up time I could have been spending on my paper. Each time he apologized, I kissed the back of his hand. Roman would stop talking, his cheeks turning an adorable shade of pink every time.

"You know as much as I do that the girls will be happy to see me." I said after one apology. Roman smiled softly.

"Yeah they will." He agreed. "How is that paper going by the way?"

"Pretty good. I just need to carve out some time to go to the library. I need a couple books and they won't let me check them out. Reference books." I shrugged as Roman started rubbing his thumb over the back of my hand.

"I can drop you there after I get the girls." Roman offered, shooting a glance at me. "We're mainly just going to do some homework they have from Friday and then just watch TV. Probably order a pizza since they don't get that with Kate."

"That's cute." I said. "I wouldn't mind the ride though. Thank you." Roman nodded, kissing the back of my hand as he pulled into Chet and Connie's driveway.

"Here we go." Roman whispered as we walked up the sidewalk together. He rang the bell and Chet opened the door. "How the hell do you do that?" Roman asked, not even having had time to pull his hand back from the bell.

"I can see your car pull into the driveway Roman." Chet laughed as Roman shook his head, a smile on his face nonetheless. "And who is this?" Roman blushed as he looked at me, smile growing.

"This is my partner (Y/N)." Roman said, pride dripping from his voice. "They come in to work on their paper at the diner. My favorite customer."

"Oh! This is the one you wouldn't shut up about!" Chet exclaimed. "The one that had you..."

"Yes!" Roman cut Chet off, shooting him a dirty look as his face quickly turned red. “Yes. This is the person I kept telling you about." Chet chuckled before offering his hand.

"Chet Ripley." he said. I shook his hand with a laugh.

"I guess I don't need an introduction." I teased, shooting Roman a playful look. He coughed awkwardly and brushed past Chet to get into the house. "Nice to finally meet you. Roman has told me some stories."

"Oh I'm sure he has." Chet laughed as he let me in the house, locking the door behind me. "Keep in mind Roman likes to embellish things."

"Even the story about the bear?" I asked, a small smirk on my face as Roman turned to look at us. Roman smirked at Chet before raising his eyebrows. Chet opened and closed his mouth, shooting Roman a dirty look that clearly said they’d talk later.

"Where's Connie?" Roman asked, changing the subject before Chet could get too embarrassed.

"She went out to grab some snacks or something for Ben's baseball game. Girls are out back with Buck." Chet said. Roman nodded and held out his hand for me. I took it with a smile and Roman waited for Chet to take the lead. "Ben's team is going to the playoffs." He threw over his shoulder.

"Good for him." Roman said. "He's been working hard every time I've been over."

"It would mean a lot to him if you came to the first game." Chet said, holding the backdoor open for Roman and I.

"I'll change my schedule. Just make sure you tell me when it is." Roman teased his brother in law. "Buck once went to the championship game for basketball. I was supposed to go. But I never got the date." He leaned over to explain to me. "I made the next one but that was because of the girls." I giggled as the girls came running over to Roman.

“daddy!” They yelled as he let go of my hand to hug them both.

“let’s give them some time alone.” Chet whispered. I nodded and headed back in with him. “I’m glad they gave him unsupervised visits after last night. A quick court change after Kate got taken into the drunk tank.”

“yeah how did that go last night?” I asked.

“from what I could tell, she called Connie asking to be bailed out because Roman called the cops on her.”

“I mean we did but we weren’t the only ones.” I shrugged.

“oh you met her.” Chet said. I nodded. “How’d that go?”

“horribly.” I laughed as I sat on the couch. “She started trying to insinuate that Roman was shit in bed. And a bunch of other things I know already to be lies.”

“you really like him don’t you?” Chet asked. I nodded.

“yeah i do. We couldn’t be more different but somehow we make it work.” I smiled, glancing over my shoulder to see Roman looking back in at us. He smiled as he noticed me.

“well i can tell you he likes you just as much if not more.” Chet said. “Now tell me about you.”

“uh well I’m working on my masters. I work at a museum.” I said. “I play guitar…”

“Roman will love that.” I felt my cheeks heat up. “Oh he’s seen that has he? How’d that go?”

“I plead the fifth.” I muttered, glancing away from Chet. He laughed before shaking his head.

“oh Roman.” He breathed out. “What about for fun? What else do you like?” I shrugged.

“Before I met Roman I mainly just hung out with my museum friends at clubs or worked on my paper from home.” I said. “It was a friend who introduced me to the diner and then I met Roman. So things have changed up quite a bit in the last few months.”

“Roman said you met the girls.” I nodded. “And they love you.” I felt my cheeks heat up again.

“I guess.” I shrugged.

“No guessing about it. I heard them talking about his new partner. They adore you.” I smiled bashfully. “Something about mummies won them over I guess.” I laughed and scratched the back of my neck.

“Yeah. I uh technically snuck the three of them into a paid exhibit on ancient Egypt. Answered all their questions about mummies.” I said. Chet nodded with a smile.

“that’s cool.” He said. "And that would explain why the girls love you already." I laughed and nodded.

"Oh yeah. Breaking and entering while on the clock is something every young girl can look up to." I joked. Chet laughed and shook his head.

"So you and Roman must be getting pretty serious if the girls got to meet you." Chet prompted.

"They were on a school trip. He forgot I worked at that museum." I explained. "So they didn't really have a choice."

"Well enough about that." Chet sat back on the couch. "You grow up in the city?"

"Yeah. Well outskirts." I shrugged. "Let's just say I'm used to airplanes because of O'Hare." Chet nodded.

"North or South side?" He asked. I laughed.

"South side. Sox all the way. Even if they suck." I crossed my arms over my chest when Chet made a face. "Hey at least we ain't afraid of a goat."

"At least we have an excuse." Chet shot back. "Bears?" I shook my head. "Just don't tell me it's the Packers."

"Nah. I don't follow football." I said. "Now hockey I follow. But not the Hawks."

"What?" Chet exclaimed. We both missed the back door opening again. "You're not a Hawks fan?"

"Nope. (F/H/T) fan." I said. Chet shook his head.

"I can't believe you." He tsked. I shrugged with a laugh. Roman cleared his throat.

"Uh sorry to interrupt..." he smiled at me but I frowned as I noticed how forced it seemed. “We’re ready to go. (Y/N) has a paper to work on and the girls want to go shopping.” I smiled as I nodded at him. Getting up, I shook Chet’s hand.

“it was nice to meet you.” I said. I wrapped my arm around Roman as the girls ran into the room. His hand gripped my shoulder tightly as we followed them to the door.

“what library did you need me to stop at?” Roman asked as he started the car.

“the one down the street from the apartment building is fine.” I shrugged. Roman nodded.

“You’re not staying?” Cara whined. I smiled softly at her as I turned around in my seat as Roman pulled out of the driveway.

“no. I’m sorry. I have to get some work done. I’ll stop by tomorrow though.” I said. The girls pouted but nodded. “How about you let your dad go on the shopping and the four of us can go tomorrow?”

“yay!” As the girls cheered, I could see Roman breath a sigh of relief next to me. I turned back around and Roman looked over, mouthing his thanks. He pulled up in front of the library and I leaned over to kiss his cheek.

“Thanks. I’ll get the bus back.” I whispered before getting out and heading into the library with my bag. A few hours later, I found was deep into my research. By the time the library was closing, I was putting the books back and haphazardly throwing my notes into my bag. I caught the last bus and sighed as I got off a block from the apartment building. “Thank fuck.” I trudged down the hall towards my apartment when some noise in Roman’s apartment made me stop.

“Come on dad. You’ve got to be kidding me.” I heard Mara say. “(Y/N) doesn’t see anything in uncle Chet. They like YOU.”

“yeah.” Cara said. “(Y/N) won’t leave you. They aren’t like mom. They adore you.”

“time for bed girls.” Roman muttered, his words slightly slurred and muffled. The girls grumbled but apparently got into bed. “Night. Sleep well. I love you, (Y/N).”

“night dad!” The girls called as a door closed. I covered my mouth to muffle my gasp.

“did you hear what he said?” Mara asked excitedly. Cara must have nodded since I didn’t hear her reply. “Dad loves (Y/N)! Do you think he’s going to tell them soon?”

“I hope so. I’d be willing to bet they love him too.” Cara said quietly. I bit my lip as I tiptoed to my apartment. Shutting the door, I leaned against it and sighed.

“oh Roman.” I walked over to the couch and picked up his shirt. Holding it tight to my chest, I sighed dreamily. “I love you too.”

[deanoheartspie]

SUNSHINE 6

Pairing: Cowboy Sheriff Dean x female City Gal Reader

Warnings: None

Summary: After your family cut you off, your great-aunt Laura invited you over to her ranch you often visited when you were just a child... You drive through the beautiful town until you accidentally graze a horse that just so happens to be the sheriffs...

A/n: Hello! I've been slowly going back and fixing up my past chapters ( still editing and such but ofc it'll take time! So beware of all of that!) ALSO CLOSED MESSAGES I've gotten a crap load of bots spamming my inbox so if ya need me send me an ask and I'll get to you!

Edited?: fixing up

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•

DEAN'S POV

~Weeks went by and surprisingly enough I became more close to Y/n, we have a somewhat friendship now.

I sat in the stands alongside Rory and Lisa, watching Ben during his baseball game. I had invited Y/n but in all honesty, I didn't think she'd show... Yet she did, she hadn't met Ben yet but here she was making her way to sit near me.

She wore a beautiful sundress... That showed off her curves and god her smile... Maybe I had been staring too long but Lisa smacked my arm pulling me back to reality.

"So which one is the little guy?" Y/n asked looking at all the boys on the team as they sat out. I pointed to the little boy who had spikey hair... Even though the kid wasn't biologically mine I still took care of him as one of mine own since he didn't have a father.

Rory shyly walked towards the woman and sat between her and me, holding each of our hands. That caused Lisa to give me the 'You better fix this' type of look. "Rory baby... Momma wants you to sit with her you don't want her to be lonely right?" I asked the little girl scooping her up, she frowned shaking her head before hesitantly sitting with Lisa.

I felt bad. Of course, I did. The last thing I needed was for Lisa to go off on me later.

Y/n searched my eyes, giving me a reassuring smile and hand squeeze before tugging her hand away, without a care in the world I held her hand tighter not wanting the warmth of her hand to leave. I noticed the way she blushed and looked off at the field.

"Woohoo! Go Bears" She shouted standing up, I snorted gently pulling her down "Sweetheart... Wrong team" Her face grew redder, clearly embarrassed.

"S'okay. I'm sure they appreciate your support" I teased wrapping an arm around her waist, kissing the top of her head.

Why was I being so... Touchy-feely? What is going on with me? Goddamn Y/n what have you done to me.

-------

"Dad, did you see me? The practices after school helped more! I hit the ball farther" Ben stated throwing his fists up into the air, smiling happily.

"Yea-" I was immediately cut off by no other then Lisa.

"What do you mean after school? You have piano after school?" Lisa looked Ben and I up in down, trying to see who'd crack first.

"We mean after Piano practice" I lie, during the years I've seen how miserable the poor kid was, the moment Lisa found out he had some musical talent she forced piano, and voice lessons down his throat. So when Ben came to me, a year ago saying he wanted to try baseball, how could I deny him something he wanted? Lisa and I came to an agreement that he stay in piano, but... Ben would flash off those adorable puppy dog eyes each time and I always found myself driving right past the studio.

"Hmph good." Lisa huffed and sighed, gathering the kid's things which I helped put in her trunk.

-------

When I arrived back at the ranch, Y/n was already waiting there with a small smile. If I'm being serious, my mind kept going back to the day she said she was a runaway bride. It didn't bother me, it just made me a little worried.

"How the hell did you beat me here?" I mutter taking off my baseball cap and walking up onto the old porch that's going to need to be repaired sooner then later.

"Because I've seen fast in furious"

I quirk a brow and walk past her, "Sure sweetheart. Let me guess you got lost and went the muddy route?" I state seeing the mud on her tires proving that I have solid evidence.

"Yeah... Yeah, I got lost! I can see why no one takes the quick route... It's sorta scary"

We both walk in tossing our boots off, I nod and smile a little "Thanks for coming to the game...even though you cheered for the other team twice" I playfully smirk and walk over to the kitchen making us some sandwiches.

"Anytime, I surprisingly had a good time. I've never seen baseball before but it was cool to see the boys get happy whenever they hit the ball." She softly smiled and turned around raiding the kitchen for whatever she must be looking for.

I learned very quickly not to ask what she's looking for, even if it's to tell her that it's right in her face. Especially at night when she's raiding the fridge, with her messy hair she looks like a raccoon which I also learned not to call her that when she's half asleep.

She pulled out some leftover chocolate cake from last night, hell fuckin yeah.

"Are you gonna' share that?"

She holds the container closer to her chest "Nope."

"Oh, c'mon! I made you a sandwich, it's only fair" I try my best to mock the kids' pouts since they always seemed to work.

"Fine fine, one slice only because you ate all the pie yesterday"

"I asked you if you wanted some" I muttered, going off to the back porch and setting down our plates, this became our ritual. We'd eat and talk, every damn day we did this. I didn't mind it on bit.

"After the fact that you were almost done with it" She followed behind with the two slices of chocolate cake, she sat down her hair flowing in the wind.

"I still offered" I argued with a small smile digging into the piece of cake first before taking a bite of my sandwich.

I looked at the view in front of me, and god I loved it. I couldn't imagine living anywhere else, the way the birds chirped and how the flowers looked in the field. Beautiful, this time though. My eyes weren't on the field they were on her

"Hm, back to our subject from yesterday." She whips out a clipboard from under the chair, she was trying to be funny as she showed me her fake 'file' she made of me with all the things I like, etc.

"Would you ever leave?"

That question caught my attention.

"What do you mean? Leave the ranch?"

Y/n shook her head “I mean leaving this town. It never gets boring?”

I've never actually given it much thought before. Living here all my life, what was the point of leaving a place that you have it easy in?

"Nope. I did go to New York once. Never again, way too many people for my liking, I also got my younger brother around here so I don't plan on being far from him and his little family."

New York was a shit show, way too many people with attitudes, and too crowded. In my opinion, it was like hell. Though did have cheap hotdogs which were a nice plus and some of the views, besides that, it all was way too expensive and not worth it.

"Would you ever move back...?" I question, wondering how long she was planning on staying.

She stayed quiet, fiddling with the ends of her sundress as she kept her head down low.

We sat in total silence until she spoke.

"Maybe. It has been my home... But I like it here too so it's a little confusing." she admits running her fingers through her hair.

"So as of right now your staying?" I look at her, I feel those god forsaken butterflies in my stomach.

"Yes sheriff you don't have to worry about me up and leaving without two weeks' notice" she teased bumping her shoulder with mind, she smiled.

The way she smiled always made me melt... I liked seeing it. Seeing her happy. Without a thought second I blurt out "Will you go on a date with me? As friends...or y'know?" The moment I realized what I had said it was too late to take it back and didn't want to seem like a jackass for taking it back anyways.

I saw her thinking with a faint blush on her face, maybe she was thinking how to let me down slowly so it wouldn't be awkward.

Y/n lifted her head up and nodded "I'd like that Dean."

°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

----Tag list----

@deans-spinster-witch @leigh70 @mrsjenniferwinchester @ladysparkles78 @hobby27 @khaleesihavilliard @foxyjwls007 @lucidlivi @jc-winchester @globetrotter28 @beskarfilms @the141bandicoot @alysinwonderland-at-tea @randomgurl2326 @ambergoddess444 @westernwinchesters @lemmons1998 @julie04090 @nic-kolas @raisinggray @alternativeprincess94

[asonofpeter]

Wait

Pairing: Dark!Rafe Cameron x Reader

Summary: Rafe doesn't want to wait to start your future, you convince him that he should.

Warnings: tampering with condoms, mentions of abortions, mentions of sex, toxic relationship (reader is kinda toxic too since this is the same universe as my other rafe fic)

Word Count: 601 (dang so close)

A/N: It's the annual birthday fic! Thought I wasn't going to do it this year but I didn't want to drop this tradition, so here's a small fic. Real quick though, a lot has changed in the past few months to a year. I still have been writing but I've drifted to more original work so that's what's kept me busy. Plus I have my entire business that I'm trying to make into a viable career and I'm walking a dog now! I still go on here, mainly reading and brain dumping (is that what it's called?). I've been on a Rafe train so that's what the fic is about today! Here's to year 4 of the birthday fic!

Also don't consent to reposts, translations or anything of that sort. This work is mine, don't steal.

You were searching for some lotion when you went into Rafe’s bathroom, looking through the drawers. 

The box of condoms piqued your interest at you, figuring you should take some so when he comes back you could have some fun. 

You grabbed a few, but your brows furrowed when you felt something odd about the packaging. Raising your arm and holding them toward the light, you could faintly see that there were holes poked in them. Even more confused, you searched through all of them, finding they were all the same.

Walking back into the room, Rafe had just returned from downstairs and he smirked when he saw what was in your hand.

“Rafe, why did you poke holes in the condoms?” you asked and his smile fell, eyes darkening. 

“You left me no choice,” he answered and you were partially taken back by his bluntness. “You know how badly I want to start a family with you, our future and you’re taking it away from me”.

“Make some sense, Rafe! Don’t you know I want the same thing?” you pressed a hand to your chest after you threw the condoms on the bed.

“Do I? Cause it doesn’t really seem like you do,” he tilted his head. 

“Don’t do that,” you dropped your arms at your sides. 

“What? The fact that whatever I want, I don’t get because you don’t want to?” he furrowed his brows, stalking closer to you. “It was the same shit with you not wanting to go on the pill,” he waved his hand as he turned away. 

“It was my choice to make that, I didn’t want to put my body through a drastic change just so you can cum inside me,” you raised your voice. “And now? This is a line crossed, Rafe,” you folded your arms over your chest.

“So what if you get pregnant, you gonna go kill it the moment you get just cause it’s not part of your plan?” he rose a brow. 

“I don’t know,” you answered truthfully. “I don’t know because I’ve never been in that position,” you gulped. “But you need to understand that this future has been something I’ve dreamed of since I was a little girl. I always wanted to be married to an amazing man, one who loves me and treats me like a queen, and I always wanted to be a mom, I wanted to experience pregnancy and have that glow. It was always the dream, but now that I’m with you, I know it can come true,” you grabbed his hands, smiling at him. “But I also wanted to have a degree, a bachelor's was just as important, so when there was no man in my life, I focused on that,” you shrugged. “I’m not gonna beg you to wait, I’m just going to ask that you do. I’m almost done, one more semester until I graduate, we’ll start planning our future then,” you reached for his lips and he happily kissed you back.

“I’ll wait, I guess I could be a little more patient,” he tucked a piece of hair behind your ear. “But the moment that you become Mrs. Cameron, I’m not gonna buy any more condoms, you can decide if you want nature to decide how many kids we have,” he pinched your chin. 

“That’s fair,” you smirked. “You can get me pregnant as many times as you want after we’re married”.

“Better get all the practice in now then,” he moved over you so your back was against the mattress and you happily welcomed his love and affection. 

~

Reblogs are the best birthday gift!

[universal-bunny]

Yandre!Killua x Fem!Reader

School!Au /Warning! Their Aged up! This May contain bits of swearing and gorey topics!/literally one

Her Magic Touch♡

It's was a rainy day at Hunter Academy when Killua Zoldyck realized he'd do just about anything for you...

You sighed as you looked at the Injured Albino who was in the nurses office. Feeling a bit guilty since It was your fault that he was injured, if only you'd went the other way and kept walking Killua wouldn't have been hurt, No this was all because of that stupid Jock Kim He just had to evoke Killua by trying to touch and flirt with you this broke out into a fight between those two

You came back into your situation by patching Killua up "Damn.." Killua hissed at the stinging sensation from the applied hydrogen peroxide on a wound on his cheekbone "shut it, it's your fault for acting so reckless" you say looking at Killua with a stern but concentrated look while putting a band-aid on his wound and Killua couldn't help but admire your beautiful face the way your eyes gleamed with concern and emotion which made him fall in love with you more so the ever

Killua shook his head getting rid of those thoughts and narrowed his eyes " That doesn't matter Nick/name he was obviously trying to piss me off!....flirting with you.....touching you......" Killua muttered the last part

You sighed again after finishing putting the ointment on patching him up "Killua..." you say as you put your soft hand on his left cheekbone and glided his head towards your face for him to look at you

Killua obviously shocked by your actions blushed a soft red and nodded while leaning softly into your palm

"I know you only ment the best want to protect me but like I've told you I can handle myself well and you know this.....friends are suppose to have trust in each other right?"

Killua could feel his heart sink at the word friends he didn't want to be just friends he wanted more with you he didn't beat up that pathetic a$$whole just because he wanted to protect you he also loved you he knew you could handle your own he knew that you could put up a fight but the thought of someone touching Something that belonged to Him made his blood boil with anger and anxiety It made him want to Cut their vile hands off and watch them bleed out...

Killua then got an Idea what if he paid that Disgusting Disgrace b-

"Killua?!" You yelled cutting Killua off from his thoughts "Yeah?" Killua looked at you with slight darker Blue eyes which sent chills down your spine "O-oh It's 2:56PM we better get to class before that creepy teacher Mr.Hisoka has something to say to us Yknow?" Killua sighs even the mere mention of that creep makes him want to puke "yeah I guess" Killua said not really wanting to leave instead wanting to relax in your presence. You shake your head and smile lightly "Come on Kil besides Me and Gon will be in your class to since Mr.Wing isn't here so lighten up a bit kay?" Killua started to feel a bit better only because you and Gon would be in the same noisy and chaotic class as him and specifically you♡...

TimeSkip♧

After an long hour of loudness and craziness since Mr.Hisoka really didn't care what his class did as long as they did their work and didn't get to out of hand also the rain had already cleared.

You, Killua, and Gon were walking to their lockers to change out their shoes/grab their book bags Killua put his Jaket on while You Grabbed your Hoodie Gon had already put his Jaket on and was waiting for the two of them to get done "Alright we can go now" You said as You and Killua walked over to Gon "Okay!" Gon said excited to get home and eat dinner that aunt Mito was making.

"Well it's time to go our separate ways, bye Killua!!" "Come on Gon" You said as you Hug Killua and wait for Gon "Bye Killua see you tomorrow" Gon said as he dose a secret handshake with Killua" " yeah yeah I know" Killua said smirking as he watches You and Gon wave at him while walking to your houses since it's close by he gives a small wave back with darkened eyes and horrid thoughts and starts his Journey to a little someone's house for trying to steal you away from him....

By the time Killua would get back to his house late at night he'd be painted in red

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

This took way to long for no reason, also should I continue this Au are leave it be?

♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

[clemswinecorner]

Nuggets and shakes [Zak O'Sullivan]

Summary: During the F3 break something is up with Zak, so Y/N finds out and comforts him.

Started from the prompt "You’re avoiding the subject and you know it. What are you hiding from me?"

Wordcount: 1.7k

Warnings: it's kinda sad and like a liiiiitle angsty bc Zak is sad bc Williams did a shitty thing. Other than that its like cute or smt its a lovely relationship (with a little bit suggestive at the end but y/n stops it to play games lol)

Guess who lives! And it's my biiiirthdaaaay so here's a gift for you xx This got me out of my writer's block and I wrote this in a day (but! i am on @clemswinecorner-socials more often because those can get some creativity out of me even when I have a writer's block, I've got a new post ready for you there as well mwuah x) and also I graduated in the mean time so go me, and now I have time to get back to writing and the inspiration so thank you Zak! Enjoy Zak girlies :)

Ps. don't think about the title too much because I struggled making up one (suggestions are welcome)

Main Masterlist

It wasn't unusual for Zak to keep to himself like now, especially when he'd been busy and his social battery was low. Zak was a very laid back person, so people were used to him not bringing attention to himself in general, but he was usually up for a chat and often cracking jokes. He had spent a lot of time with friends and family, so you understood him seemingly wanting some time to himself, sure. What was unusual, however, was how he was distant even to you. The last race before the long break wasn't a good weekend for the British driver, his feature race ending early due to damage from the opening lap after struggling to make it into the top 10 on Friday. He'd been frustrated and quiet on the way home to England, but when you went to Spain, where you'd spend the first couple of weeks of the break, the championship went somewhat forgotten.

It was now only 3 weeks until the final race of the season came around, and you were seated next to Zak in his parents' garden as his dad and uncle were busy with the barbecue. He absentmindedly scrolled on his phone, occasionally responding to some texts with his other hand on your thigh. He wasn't physically distant, he'd never been, but there was something different between going on. Something hanging in the air, which was weird- you’ve always been very open and communicative to each other. "Zak, can you come help for a second?" You look over as his dad calls him, but Zak doesn’t seem to notice. You nudge him, "your dad needs help." Zak nods and puts his phone in his pocket standing up, his hand leaving your thigh. You watch as he talks with his family, a small smile on his face, though you could see it wasn't fully there. He was still chatting and joking around, you assumed from the way his dad was laughing, but his own smile seemed a little more forced- but maybe that was just you. 

"So, how's my favourite in-law? The job going well?" You smile at Zak's cousin, who was around the same age as you, sitting down next to you. "I'm good, I'm alright. I've been having fun during this time off, but also can't wait to get back to the track with the team and Zak. And you, how's the boyfriend?" You chat for a while, until you get interrupted by your boyfriend appearing next to you with a hand on your shoulder, handing you a plate with some salad and a little bit of everything from the barbecue. "Thanks babe, looks good," you smile and you give him a quick peck. "Always for my girl," you blush and his cousin looks at the two of you fondly as Zak makes his way back. "So, everything going great between you two I assume?" You look at Zak with a sigh before looking back at her. "Yeah, we're good, I think. He's been a little off, or something, but I think it's work related. I've been wanting to talk about it but you know how things are in the motorsports world, you can't always say," His cousin looks over with a sympathetic smile. "Oh, well, you know how he is. If he's ready and wants to tell you, he will. And you can always ask," you nod as you look at his 3 year old niece, who has just come in, running up to him. "Uncle Zaaaaak!" Zak turns around and looks down with a smile. "Hey there princess!" He says and you hear an adorable squeal as he lifts her in the air. "He'd be a good dad," His cousin raises his eyebrows at you and you shake your head. "Nope, way too early, we are not having that conversation."

"Are we going too?" You softly ask Zak after you've said goodbye to his niece and her parents. "Yeah, sure, whatever you want," you grab the keys from his back pocket and rub his arm. "Alright, I'll drive. Let's say goodbye to your parents and go," You walk back to the garden, where you hug both his parents before quickly waving to his siblings. "I'll see you guys next week, right? Alright, bye!" You automatically grab Zak's hand as you walk back to his car, him going more quiet liked you'd seen at home the past couple of days. You hand him your phone with Spotify, not entirely sure what type of music he'd prefer, and drive home. "Do you want a milkshake? I could also get nuggets to share or a McFlurry. I won't tell any of the trainers," You mention when you see the exti that leads to the McDonald’s. You glance over at Zak who gives you a tight but genuine smile. "Nuggets and shake, please," you smile as you pull into the McDrive, ordering your usual favourites. "Thank you," he quietly says when you're back on your way. "Ofcourse," You smiled. 

You settle around the kitchen island in Zak's apartment, with him sitting and you still standing halfway across from him. "So, how are you feeling?" Zak frowns at your question as he dips his nugget in the sauce. "About what?" You shrug, "In general," and Zak simply shrugs back. "Just normal," He just says, and you look at him once more. "Zak, is... Really, are you okay?" He looks up at you now, seeing how serious you are. "Yeah, i'm fine. Just... There’s nothing, i just need to get back into the flow, and stuff. With Williams and everything I've just... You know how it is, different people and stuff, but I can't really say," It's only when he mentions the team that you realise how much he hadn't talked about them during the past few weeks, whereas he had mentioned his F3 team. He'd been over at the factory a few times, but not nearly as much as during the winter. "Zak, is everything going okay at the teams, and during training? We've not really spoken about that stuff for a while," he quickly shakes his head- too quick. "Yeah, did you hear Williams is finally allowed to break the cost cap for the new stuff? And Prema's been doing well, did you talk to Angelina about the new LAP's? I noticed they took over some of your filming habits," He talked quickly, not allowing you to interrupt. "I did, yeah, but you’re avoiding the subject and you know it. Zak, I know this is a secretive world, or supposed to be at least, but i'm your girlfriend. If you go through something I go through it with you. What are you hiding?" Zak looks at you and you see a change in his demeanour. "I, eh, I don't... I don't think I can really..." You walk over to him, the distress clear in his voice. "Listen, I'm here, okay. I won't tell people, I just care for you. Good or bad, i'll stay," you grab chin and make him look up at you as you tell him that, and he nods. "I know. Thank you," You smile as you hug him from behind the chair. "I love you, always." He nods in response as he leans into you, rubbing your arm. "I got sacked by Williams."

You freeze at those words. "Zak..." You say as you stand by his side. "That's what you've been keeping to yourself?" You ask, already knowing the answer. He looks at you with watery eyes and nods. "My god, Zak, I'm sorry," You pull him to stand up and embrace him, feeling him relaxing immediately at your touch. You stay for a long while as the words slowly sink in. Zak is still grabbing you tightly and from the way he's hugging you you can tell how much he needed this. He softly cries on your shoulder as you hold him, with here and there sobs that absolutely break your heart. 

"You don't deserve this. That's... It's a dumb decision, really, why would they do that to such a good driver?" Zak has slowly pulled back, now leaning against your chest as you hold him. "They had to choose. With the Merc juniors and Logan already there they had to make a decision and they saw more in Franco. I really don't know what next, Y/N. I don't even know if I'll make it to F2," You sigh as you hold him close. "You will. And honestly, you're gonna make it to F1 anyways, might as well make it a team that isn't the worst on the grid," Zak gives you a eye roll and a smile in response. "Okay, okay, I'm still with the team until after Abu Dhabi. But maybe, yes," he admits and you chuckle. "Alright, now that we've got that out of the way, we should do something fun, because you need that. Put on your pyjama pants and I'll grab us a game, alright? Alright, I'm changing first, you finish the nuggies!" He chuckles as you walk away to the bedroom. 

"I'm coming in," You say as you open the door, a bottle of rosé and two glasses in hand, placing them beside your bed. Zak walks out of the bathroom wearing just his underwear, and you look him over. "Put on some pants," you tease and he smirks. "I know you'd rather have me keep them off," You roll your eyes as you leave the room again, grabbing the games you figured you could play. "You don't need a shirt, it's fine like that," Zak looks at you from the edge of the bed and stands up as you put the games on the bed. "Thought you'd say that," he says as he pulls you close to him by your wrist, pulling you in for a kiss. As his hands slip lower to the shorts you're wearing you pull back. "We were going to play some games, weren't we?" Zak nods as you move yourself from his grip making your way over to the bed. "Uno and monopoly, really? You know that stuff has ended relationships, right?"

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[ornii]

My Better Bitter Half, Part 10

Chapter 10: Dance Dance!

“Dr. Kinbott tells me I should get out more. Says I need to open my mind to new people and experiences. Who am I to argue with her professional clichés?”

The Jericho Morgue houses the corpses of those lost in the town. The security system was tough but, effortlessly disposed of by black gum. Thing coats it, which allows the twins to sneak in undetected by the Camera. They slip into the Morgues chambers and Wednesday turns to her brother as they approach the containers.

“While I do the autopsy, you find the files of the monster's other victims and make copies.”

“Seriously?” (Y/n) said.

“Don't pout. Your scalpel skills are questionable. Do you remember my 13th birthday, when Uncle Fester gave me that cadaver?”

“First of it, our 13th birthday. And no I don’t.”

“You sliced right through that man's carotid.” She said, he scoffs.

“Because you decided to steal my embalming tools. But fine, I’ll make sure we get what we need.” (Y/n) walks into the other room across the hall. The twins separate and begin preparations, (Y/n) and Thing head inside the office and search cabinets for the lastest date. Finding one a day or two ago of this year, he grabs what he can and begins to print it off. He checks the papers and an odd coincidence begins to form.

“Lost hand… head? Eyeball?… they all seem to have some form of dismemberment.. but why would a wild monster do that?” He says, he finishes the printing just in time for car lights to catch his eye. He dashed into the autopsy room.

“Wednesday! Someone’s here!” He yells

“Calm down. Who's coming?” She said, the twins come up with a plan and execute it. The Sheriff and the Doctor who oversees autopsies enter

“Appreciate you coming back to the office, Doc.”

“No problem, Sheriff. Whatever I can do to help. Whatever or whoever is responsible for these killings... In all my years, I've never seen injuries like them. I thought you should see this before I issued my report on the latest victim. It's a real noodle-scratcher. The killer cut off two toes from the victim's left foot. Best guess, they used a surgical saw. The final autopsy report's still pending.”

“Minute you're done, send it straight to my desk.” The sheriff responds.

“Happy retirement, Doc.” The sheriff leaves as the doctor nods. He turns and notices on the table, a covered body. He approaches and pulls back the cover to (Y/n), dead. The doctor sighs. He pulls further back to see his body, with off scars and bruises, many healed.

“Hm.. many broken bones, scars.. you went though a lot. I suppose you can wait—“ he notices a chill in the air, and looks to the fridges As one is open, the slowly walks over towards it. He opens it and pulls the corpse back, and it’s Wednesday.

“I don't remember this one coming in. Full rigor. You've been dead a while. Guess you won't mind waiting another day for me to cut you open.” He smiles and locks her inside, and finally takes his leave. Thing, hiding in the fake skull pops out and heads to Wednesday. He pulls her from the fridge.

“Five more minutes. I was just getting comfortable.” She says, Thing angrily prances around, and Wednesday rolls her undead eyes.

“Fine. You know he won’t stay dead.” She says and gets out of the fridge and approaches her brothers corpse. She calmly looks over him.

“My Brother, for all his dreadful Traits, is annoyingly resilient. He’s cheated death more times than one can count, and his ability to seemingly resurrect himself from death is impressive, so long as he can get a jumpstart.” Wednesday thinks, and a small creepy smirk creeps along her face as she draws a taser.

“Luckily, I have just the thing.” She jams the taser into his chest, shooting lighting though him, and like Frankenstien, he rose up gasping for air. The once dead look in his eyes was full of life now.

“Never… Again.” He says growling.

“Not unless I want to, now put your clothes on.” She said, leaving the Morgue, (Y/n) grumbled as he stood off the table and grabbed his clothes in the corner.

The next morning, Wednesday had the files; everything printed out upon a plaster, analyzing the information, Enid approached, obviously concerned.

“When I suggested giving your side of the room a makeover, I did not have Ted Bundy's Pinterest in mind.”

“Still not as creepy as your stuffed unicorn collection.”

“Is this why you snuck out last night?” Enid asks. L

“My Brother and I made an unsanctioned trip to the morgue to copy the files of the monster's victims.”

“Okay, there are so many levels of ew in that statement, I don't know where to begin.”

“I need to get inside its head. Discover any patterns or anomalies. I've already made a big discovery. Turns out all of the monster's victims have had body parts surgically removed. The first one a kidney, the second a finger...” Wednesday shows Enid the graphic photos.

“Wednesday, I don't feel...”

“Third a gall bladder. And the bearded man from the meeting house, two toes. Do you understand what this means? These murders aren't mindless. He's collecting trophies like a seasoned serial killer. It's impressive, actually.—“ Wednesday hears a thud, and she turns around to Enid on the floor. Suddenly, (Y/n) enters with his backpack.

“Enid, Wednesday, Pardon the intrusion I found—“ (Y/n) stops talking as he sees Enid on the floor.

“… what did you do?” (Y/n) asks In his sister’s deadpanned voice

“I did not do anything to your pet.” Wednesday said.

“I Did nOt dO aNyThInG—“ (Y/n) says mocking his sister. “If you were literally anyone else I’d believe that.” He says, he kneels down at Enid and picks her up.

“Fetch the smelling salts, she’s going to be late for class.” He says and walks to her side of the Dorm. Wednesday stares with an off sensation, another girl has her older brothers attention besides Her, perhaps this is what we call, Jealousy.

In Ms Thornhills Herbology Class, the lesson continues as planned. Thornhill showing off a particularly evil looking plant.

“While most plants reward their pollinators with sweet nectar, many carnivorous varieties turn to sеxual trickery or deception. The orchid produces a pheromone that mimics a female insect, luring the males in. Now, once the plant is pollinated, what do the male insects get in exchange?”

“Nada. Just like all the guys at the Rave'N.” Bianca says out loud, which gets a few laughs from the student body.

“Okay, okay. I know you're all excited about Saturday, which is why I haven't assigned any homework. But I do still need volunteers for the decorating committee. Anyone interested, come and see me up here.” Thornhill says, Xavier turns to Wednesday.

“You're not gonna volunteer? Aren't you pumped about disco balls and spiked punch?There's even a DJ. MC Blood Suckaz.”

“I'd rather stick needles in my eyes. I'll probably do that anyway.”

“Or you could invite someone and have a little fun.” Xavier replies, he gets up to leave and Wednesday can notice his lack of limber, something is wrong.

Inside the local Coffee spot, (Y/n) sat gingerly, reading the Autopsy reports.

“Severed Limbs and Organs, none the same.. like they’re building a.. body.” (Y/n) begins to piece everything together. His eyes catch from the corner, his Sister and Enid walking past, going somewhere. “Hmm..” he said, but didn’t think too much of it, as he begins to wrap up, Enid enters and spots him.

“(Y/n)!” She says walking over so giddy. (Y/n) prepares mentally for what he’s about to hear. And hides the autopsy reports.

“Enid… how are you?”

“It’s going to such a Hot girl summer!”

“It’s.. August..” he replies, She scoffs and sits next to him, getting a bit close to him, the sudden flourish of blonde hair and beauty in his face cause him to be a bit lost for words.

“Okay.. what is it?” He says, and she grabs his hand to share her excitement.

“Your sister is going to The Rav’N!” She says, which makes (Y/n) stare for a moment in literal disbelief.

“You… you mean Wednesday, right?”

“Duh, who else?”

“… We’re talking about the same person right? She isn’t the social butterfly, more like a death hornet.. that’s besides the point who would go out with my sister?”

“Well wouldn’t you?” Enid asks, which just confuses him even more.

“You’d take your sister to the dance, because that’s what family is for. Plus she’s going with Xavier anyway, so I was going to help her Shop but she doesn’t need it.” Enid explains.

“Well.. what about you?” (Y/n) asks, and She sighs.

“Ajax and I aren’t.. working out.” She admits; which was a good thing from (Y/n).

“Well… I can offer a counter suggestion.” (Y/n) said, but their conversation was interrupted by a young man, who approached.

“Is it okay if I talk to Enid?” He asks, and (Y/n) immediately cuts him off

“Anything you can say, you can say to me as well.” He said, the man awkwardly sat across from them

“Thanks. I'm—“

“Lucas Walker, mayor's son. Recently split from cheer captain, Chrissy Smothers. Cute brunette who needs to rethink her spray tan.” Enid said

“That's kinda scary.”

“I think it’s pretty cool.” (Y/n) chimes in.

“I have a nose for gossip and I follow half your grade on TikTok. Also my roommate scares you.”

“Wednesday Addams is your roommate? And you—“

“The bother.” (Y/n) says, and Lucas awkwardly nods

“The resemblance is—“ he begins.

“Off putting? Uncanny? Absolutely Terrifying?” (Y/n) says, staring right into Lucas’ eyes. Lucas tries not to look into the eyes of the abyss.

“Sure is. I know this isn't a random encounter. So, why are you sitting here, Lucas Walker?

You must want something.” Enid asks.

“I've got a friend who works at Hawte Kewture.

She overheard you're on the hunt for a date to the Rave'N. Maybe we can help each other out.” Lucas begins, (Y/n) realizes what’s about to happen, and takes the biggest leap in his life, he puts his hand on Enids and she looks a bit, taken aback.

“Apologies, but I’m taking this lovely Wolf out on the Rav’N.” He says, with a growing confidence, he turns to Enid who was getting more and more red.

“Y-yeah, I’d like to go with you too…” Enid could barely form a coherent sentence, (Y/n) turns to Lucas.

“Apologies, but it’s a no.”

“That’s fine, I have another plan. The relationship between Nevermore and Jericho is.. not the best, so if it’s cool with you, can we bring a few Jericho students to the dance? A show of good faith.” Lucas asks, (Y/n) and Enid share a glance.

Later in the day, the twins look at The Billboard Wednesday put together. This time inside the Bee hive.

“But why Dismemberment?” Wednesday asks.

“I’ve yet to figure that out either Wednesday.. but the cuts were clean, no monster could do something that complicated…”

“So we’re dealing with a Serial Killer… but no motive.

“It’s possible, no motive as you said, the victims seem sporadic. No connecting traits, attributes…” (Y/n) rubs his chin, and Wednesday taps her foot. Eugene enters the Bee hive.

“Enid wouldn't let me keep this in our dorm.” Wednesday said.

“No worries. Mi colmena es su colmena. I assume this is the creature that's been rampaging in the woods.”

“You've heard about it before?” (Y/n) and Wednesday ask.

“Rumors. Mr. Fitts banned me from bug-hunting until further notice. Claimed a bear was on the loose, which I knew was a lie. Didn't match their hibernation schedules. Speaking of monsters with sharp claws, could you give this to your roomie?” Eugene shows her a letter, (Y/n) raises an eyebrow.

“Put in a good word for me? I hear she's still sans date for the Rave'N.” Eugene says.

“Sorry to Break your heart..” (Y/n) said, “Enid and I are going together.” (Y/n) said, and Wednesdays attention turns to her brother.

“You didn’t inform me of this.”

“Because I didn’t have to?” (Y/n) said, “I dork have to inform you what I’m doing, you never told me you were going with Xavier.”

“That was a preservation of my status, I couldn’t let him know I was on to him. You are taking Enid on some fabricated “Date.” For no reason; it’s counter productive.

“You think everyone and everything that doesn’t work for you is counterproductive.”

Because Brother, We're original thinkers, intrepid outliers in this vast cesspool of adolescence. We don't need these inane rites of passage to validate who we are.” Wednesday said.

“So you're not going to the Rave'N with Xavier?” He asks smugly, She glares at him as Eugene slowly backs away.

“It's not like I like Xavier. I just have ulterior motives. Sketches are the closest thing I have to a lead to try and stop this thing.” She says, the twins turn back to the board.

“These drawings are… odd. I’ve known Xavier, but his artistic skill eludes me.” (Y/n) said.

“That circle...I think I know where that is.” Eugene pipes up, the Twins turn to him.

“Show us.”

Eugene takes the twins deep into the forest, and specifically to a cave with the same spiraling formation seen. They look at the drawing and confirm.

“It Matches..What were you doing out here?” Wednesday asks Eugene.

“Collecting specimens. This place is ground zero for hоrny gypsy moths…You think it's in there?”

“Only one way to find out.” (Y/n) walks forward first, slowly peering into the darkness of the cave.

“I'm not a huge fan of enclosed spaces. I'm claustrophobic…” Eugene backs away, and Wednesday follows her brother.

“If you hear me screaming bloody murder, there's a good chance I'm just enjoying myself.” She says, before heading inside. She creeps in and finds (Y/n) kneeling at something, looking at the ground. It’s deeply scared for rock. “This is definitely its lair, the claw marks on the ground suggest it holes itself inside.” (Y/n) explains. He shows his sister a bone.

“Venison…”

“Nothing human… It doesn’t eat them.” He says, from the corner of his eye he sees Wednesday pick up a claw.

“What is that?”

“Concrete proof. I just need to find something to match against the claw's DNA.”

“And I assume you have a suspect..”

Night falls, and it was the perfect moonlight for the Rav’N. Tyler and Enid accidentally bump into each other.

“My bad, i was waiting for Wednesday.”

“I’m waiting for (Y/n).” Enid replies, the two didn’t have to wait long, they soon looked upward to the stairs and the twins descend, Wednesday in a gorgeous black Aliana dress, adorned with jewelers to boot. Her brother matching Black pinstripe suit, gothic tailcoat and blood red vest and brooch to combo. They descend down and the two are at a loss for words.

“Wow, you look...” Tyler begins

“Unrecognizable? Ridiculous? A classic example of female objectification for the male gaze?” Wednesday says, (Y/n) scoffs.

“Ignore her pestering. She’s just being stubborn.” (Y/n) says, and looks at Enid.

(This woman has no Right being this beautiful someone help me—)

“Enid how are—“ He said, getting a much closer look at her, absolutely taken aback by her beauty. The fluent fur dress, the perfectly pink hair and her adorable smile.

“You… you look..” he says, but she grabs his hand smiling.

“You look great! Cmon we have to show you off!” Enid happily takes him away as he grins ear to ear, leaving Tyler and Wednesday alone. Enid shows (Y/n) the theme, which was mostly white.

“Is that an abominable snowman?” He asks, looking at the statue.

“(Y/n)! You can't say that, it's offensive! The correct name is Yeti.” Enid said.

“Uh.. okay? They've been extinct since the 1950s. I doubt they’d want to draw and quarter me for it.”

“Ms. Thornhill chaired the dance committee this year. She wanted the Rave'N to feel relevant. So our theme is climate crisis meets extinction event. But in a fun way!” Enid explains

“Oh, so Hell frozen over.” He says, he looks at her with a soft smirk.

“A fitting theme.”

“Enid?” A voice called out, the two turn to see Ajax with his date.

“I thought that was you. Is that your date?” He asks. And Enid sternly grabs (Y/n)‘s arm..

“Yes, and he's having the best time with me.’We are both loving this dance... together.” She says

“Sweet.” Ajax murmurs before leaving. (Y/n) turns to Enid, and notices her dismayed face.

“Hey, are you okay?” He asks, she snaps out of it and nods.

“Y-yeah! I’m fine! I’ll go get us punch.” Enid awkwardly scampers over to Wednesday.

“Hey, Interesting choice of date.” Enid says, peering over to Tyler.

“I could say the same.” Wednesday replies, Enid couldn’t hide her blush.

“Your brothers great! He’s just like you… Look, at first I thought it was a good idea since I'm trying to make Ajax jealous. But now, i realize your brother is, like the perfect present wrapped up in a box!”

“Or a casket..” Wednesday replies, and Enid laughs. “As much joy as i find out of the pain and suffering he endures, I’d be a “Bad sister.” If I allowed you to toy with his heart.” She said, and Enid nods.

“You’re right, Everything he does for me, I can’t do him like that! Alright! Cmon, at least have some fun!” She says and Leads Wednesday away, the party continues, until a certain song begins to play

When the sun goes down And the moon comes up.

Goo Goo Muck By the Cramps begins to play, and Wednesday, for her all gothic melodramatic attitude, begins her own off putting dance.,


I turn into a teenage goo goo muck


Yeah, I cruise through the city And I roam the streets


Looking for something That is nice to eat

You better duck


When I show up


The goo goo muck


I'm the night headhunter Looking for some head


With a way-out body Underneath that head


Yeah, I'll get you, baby With a little luck


'Cause I'm a teenage tiger And a goo goo muck


You better duck


When I show up


The goo goo muck

(Y/n) and Enid dance together, elated, his eyes waver only for a moment to see his sister, somewhat enjoying herself, which brings a bit of joy to himself.

Most have calmed down after the dance, and Wednesday exits the dance floor to the side rooms, as Bianca sits

“Whoever invented high heels clearly had a side hustle as a torturer.”

“As my dear mother always says, "Fire tests gold, suffering tests a woman." Bianca said

“Speaking of suffering, where's your date? I didn't see you and Xavier on the dance floor.”

“We had a little tiff. About you, actually.

You don't know what it's like.”

“Being beautiful and popular?”

“Never knowing people's true feelings. If someone likes me for me.”

“What about your amulet?”

“It's not foolproof. It's a mild prophylactic, so to speak. That's why Xavier broke up with me.

He could never fully trust me. The worst part is I could never trust his feelings either. I never knew if they were real or not. You're lucky.You don't care what people think of you.”

“Honestly, I wish I cared a little more…” Wednesday replies, “My brother is the sympathetic one.

“He also has quite the looks..” Bianca chimes in.

“I can barely handle Enid drooling over him I don’t need another. His happiness makes me life sick.”

“I’m just saying your brother is.. a thriller.” Bianca says, and if on queue, a familiar song begins to play. (Y/n)s body moves almost like a zombie, perfectly mimicking a dance

It's close to midnight

And something evil's lurking in the dark

Under the moonlight

You see a sight that almost stops your heart

You try to scream

But terror takes the sound before you make it

You start to freeze

As horror looks you right between the eyes

You're paralyzed

'Cause this is thriller, thriller night

And no one's gonna save you from the beast about to strike

You know it's thriller, thriller night

You're fighting for your life inside a killer, thriller tonight, yeah

Ooh, ooh

You hear the door slam

And realize there's nowhere left to run

You feel the cold hand

And wonder if you'll ever see the sun

You close your eyes

And hope that this is just imagination

Girl, but all the while

You hear a creature creepin' up behind

You're out of time

'Cause this is thriller, thriller night!

There ain't no second chance against the thing with forty eyes, girl

Thriller, thriller night

You're fighting for your life inside a killer, thriller tonight

Students begin to chime in, dancing as well, like an army of the undead. A hallowing voice begins to speak, emulating though the world as the song reaches its climax, (Y/n) drops down, slowly crawling towards Enid, like a zombie, until he gets on one knee, and takes her hand, looking lovingly into her eyes.

The foulest stench is in the air

The funk of forty thousand years

And grizzly ghouls from every tomb

Are closing in to seal your doom

And though you fight to stay alive

Your body starts to shiver

For no mere mortal can resist

The evil of the thriller!

(Y/n) slowly stood up, and took Enids hands, looking into her eyes, and for a moment.

“Enid.. I—“ he says stammering, but she takes the moment for herself, because this is her moment and she gives him the softest kiss on the lips. (Y/n) stares in disbelief.

“I’m sorry!” Enid begins “I wanted to make Ajax jealous cause I knew he’d be coming here with another girl, but I couldn’t do that to you. And Wednesday talked me into telling you the truth and I just can’t lie anymore.. do you, forgive me?” She asks, he continues to stare, before his hands awkwardly wrap around her.

“I do… it’s just..” he lets go, and tries to speak, before noticing something, red.

“Enid? Are you okay? You’re blessing.”

“What?” Enid feels something rush down here face as she sees red. Soon the room begins to pour red, seemingly blood, which grossly stains the white themed party. (y/n) looks around At everyone panicking, and Enid spots Lucas leaving and follows.

“Enid? Enid!” He says, “They couldn't even spring for real pigs' blood. It's only paint.” He turns to his sister, who’s smirking.

“…. Wednesday..” he says.

“No. I had nothing to do with this.” She says

“This time, I actually believe you.. give me a moment.” He walks off to chase after Enid, as she spots Lucas with other Jericho boys, laughing as they poured the red ink into the schools water supply.

“You did this?” Enid said, holding back tears, “I can't believe I fell for your crap. Enid, after Crackstone's statue... I thought you were different.”

The Malicious laughter of the boys echo in the night, “Wolf out! Wolf out! Wolf out!” They chant, before (Y/n) exits. He see Enid on the verge of tears and the bullying monsters, he storms over.

“Get away from her, now.” He says, Lucas looks around, seeing the situation slowly rise in tension, the three other boys surround (Y/n).

“Or what? You gonna cry to your Mommy? Freak.”

“I bet his moms an ugly ghoul or something.”

“Ha! Is he right? I bet your dad is just as gross.”

“You’re gonna look like it when we’re through with you.”

(Y/n) said nothing for the moment. He calmly took the blood on his face and combed his hair back with it.

“You are Hopelessly outnumbered..” he says, the boys chuckle.

“Really? Just you, Asshat.”

“No, it isn’t.” He takes a deep breath, and looks down. They look down as well, as if the bowels of hell opened up, glowing hands slowly begin to erupt from the ground, swiping at boys. They scream and scamper about to abound being dragged to hell. But hands grab them, ghosts and ghouls alike hold them in place, ready to drag them to the underworld. (Y/n) calmly turns to Lucas.

“Take your friends, and never come back here. Or I will drag you to hell personally.” With a snap of his fingers, the hands let them go and scurry off. He looks down at the hands.

“I thank you for your assistance, and yours mister Poe.” He says to a ghostly man. Who resembles the fallen poet, he nods

“Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary” the ghost says.

“... Quoth the Raven, Nevermore.” (Y/n) replies, and the ghosts fade. (Y/n) turns to Enid and rushes to her side.

“Are you okay?” He asks, and she hugs him with no hesitation. He gladly accepts her affection, until her claws accidentally come out, poking his back

“Ow ow Enid! Claws!” He says and she lets go.

“I’m sorry! Sorry..” the two stand there, “I.. I’ve never gotten this far with a woman.” He admits. “What is, the next step?” He asks

“Oh. We should, uh...We should probably take it slow.” Enid says, and offers her hand, and he holds it.

“I can do.. slow.” He says with a smile, it quickly fades though, as Bianca comes in, spotting him.

“(Y/n)!” She says

“Yes? We Found the fools behind the prank..”

“No it’s not that!”

“What is it?”

“It’s your sister.. and Eugene.”

[braveclementine]

Chapter 5

Warnings: None. (Will however be a 18+ reader book)

Copyright: I do not own any Marvel characters or locations. However, I do own my OC: Elizabeth Y/L/N (created so you don't get Y/N and Y/S/N consistently mixed up. I do not condone any copying of this.

YOUR BREATH CUT OFF WHEN TONY STARK entered the small coffee shop. It had been an unbusy day. There was a college student in the corner of the café, his head bent over his computer, wired buds in his ears, his back to the door so he didn't see Tony Stark when he entered.

Tanya was in the back somewhere at this moment, probably taking a smoke with the light flow of traffic coming through the shop.

You had been swiping along on your phone, looking at Instagram. Your parents had given you and Elizabeth phones when Elizabeth had been fourteen. You had been sixteen but it was because once you reached the teens, the ultimatum was going an entire school year with straight A's. Elizabeth had just done it sooner than you.

You'd upgraded your phone once you'd earned the money and you liked it a lot better. It ran smoother, had a lot more apps, and was slightly bigger than the other one, which was good for your hand size and manicured nails.

You slid the phone to side, shutting it off with a quick click. "Hello, what can I get you today?"

"A mocha frappe." He said with a dazzling smile. "Medium."

You didn't even bother asking for his name, going and getting a medium sized cup and trying not to spill anything or make a mess of his drink.

You handed it over to him. "$8.32."

"Overcharging there, aren't you?" He asked in what you thought was a serious tone.

"I-" You froze. But he was a billionaire?

He grinned again, "I'm kidding sweetheart."

Your heart melted and your knees felt weak.

"I'm guessing you're new at the shop. Haven't seen you around." He said, taking his coffee cup in one hand.

Of course, he knew perfectly well that you were new. He had never stepped foot into this coffee shop in his life. He barely went anywhere except between his bedroom, the shared kitchen, and the lab. And sometimes he didn't leave the lab for days until Stephen left the library long enough to drag him out.

He had thought you stunningly gorgeous the minute he'd walked through the door and figured that if he never met his other soulmate, that was alright because he had you. He couldn't wait to get to the point where he could take you up to his bedroom and skip the bed, just push you up against a wall and start fucking the brains out of you. Running his fingers through those long locks of hair.

"Yes, I've only been here for over a week now." You said, blushing lightly, reaching over to fix something on the counter.

He reached out and touched your hand. You froze for a second, before feeling a rush of heat on your chest. Your hand flew up to where the blue circular tattoo was imprinted. "Oh!"

"Hey soulmate." He said with a grin.

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

HE'D ASKED FOR YOUR NUMBER, asked when your work ended, and you had given him your name, number, and work end time before he'd walked off with his mocha frappe, the promise of picking you up from work and taking you to Avengers tower to meet your other soulmates off his lips.

You could barely concentrate for the rest of the day.

When work finally did come to a close, you realized your hands were shaking as you took your apron off.

You rushed to the bathroom, taking a look at yourself in the mirror. You breathed in deeply, pulling out your purse to fix some touches to your makeup. Looks, were everything. You needed a good first impression with your manners, actions, and looks.

You also pulled your shirt over to the side, to see that the tattoo was no longer blue. Whenever you met a soulmate, the colour (if there was colour to begin with) would drain out of the tattoo. It would becoming colourful again, the more time you spent with your soulmate. By time, it meant your affection with each other grew. Sitting in a room with your soulmate not talking to them wouldn't do anything.

Some tattoos were black and white. It didn't make a difference, although it was always cool to see what the colours would eventually become.

You wondered, touching the colourless tattoo, what it symbolized. It wasn't really anything that screamed Tony Stark. It wasn't money or a fancy car or a diamond ring or even an Iron man helmet or symbol.

Well, you could ask him later.

You wondered what your tattoo on him looked like.

"See you at work tomorrow Y/N." Tanya called over her shoulder as she pulled out a cigarette and lighter, walking down the street.

"Bye Tanya." You called over, wishing you had a cigarette too.

"Hey sweetheart." Another voice said behind you and you turned with a smile, seeing Tony Stark there, leaning against a red sports car you didn't know the name to. "You ready?"

"Yep!" You said excitedly. He held the door open for you on the other side and you slid into the car. You ran your hand along the fancy upholstery. You weren't sure you'd ever touched something so expensive.

It looked like your wish of having a rich soulmate had come true.

"So, we're going to the Avengers tower?" You asked uncertainly.

"Yeah, that's where we're all staying. Mind you, more than just our or your soulmates. It seems just about every superhero is staying there. But all of your soulmates should be there. Well 'Cept two of 'em."

"Oh, okay." You said. "How'd you know I was your soulmate? I don't get the impression you come into the coffee shop often."

"You met Pepper yesterday and she saw that you have an arc reactor tattoo." Tony replied. "She assumed that it was either me or Rhodey. Most likely me though, I don't know what Rhodey's tattoo is. Probably a peace sign."

You had no idea who Rhodey was or what an arc reactor was. Deciding you weren't obligated to know who the person was, you asked instead, "What is an arc reactor?"

"Oh, it's a power source." Tony answered bluntly. "I created it to power my Iron Man suits. But when I got blown up in Afghanistan, they had to put one in my chest where my heart is. I mean, I still have a heart, but it doesn't work as well as the mechanical one."

"Oh." You said in surprise, "Sorry, I'm not really from anywhere that knows this sort of stuff. It's mostly farmland. Anything we really watched on the TV was the occasional rented DVD from the red box in town. I mean, I know who you and the Avengers are, just not to the extent I'm sure others know."

"That's kind've a relief." Tony admitted. "It means we can't disappoint you because you don't have a pre-formed idea of what we're supposed to be like."

"Don't worry." You said calmly. "I don't think you could have disappointed me even if I did."

Tony smiled at you and you felt a warmth flush over your cheeks.

"I admit, you seem a lot more relaxed and calm than I thought you might take it, having an Avenger as your soulmate." Tony said.

"I'm actually shaking." You said with a nervous laugh. "I think I'm more worried about making a good impression. I'll probably break down later when it all comes rushing at me that I'm soulmated to a bunch of Avengers."

Tony chuckled. "I would ask you more questions about yourself, but we can probably wait until you're with the whole group. Then you don't have to repeat yourself eight times."

"You know I have eight soulmates?" The shock in your voice was extremely pronounced.

Tony blushed. "Well, there's at least eight of us with your tattoo."

"Am I your last soulmate?" You asked curiously. You knew you weren't, you knew that Elizabeth should be their last. But you were wondering if maybe her Japanese sword was another Avenger and you could find out what he or she was like before Elizabeth.

"No." Tony sounded almost guilty. "We're still missing one. Four of the others you are also soulmated to. And then one none of us have a connection to. His name is Hogun and he's an Asgardian, friend of Thor's. I don't really know anything about him other than he fights with a sword, is Asian, and has a spiky man bun. Thor said his formal name is Hogun the Grim."

"Oh." You said. "He sounds almost frightening."

Tony shrugged, "You'd have to ask Thor for a more accurate opinion. Or Reindeer games for that matter. Sorry, Loki."

"Loki. . . he sounds familiar." You murmured, cursing yourself for not knowing who these people were in depth.

"He's a bit tense." Tony said as he pulled in the parking garage of the Avengers Tower. "That's a bit our fault, we're probably not as welcoming of him as we could've been. But, he's more on the villain side than the hero side. Course, Thor says he changed. We'll see. But you don't have any reason to be scared of him."

"Right." You said, feeling more nervous than before.

"Thor and Loki are on Asgard right now. That's one of the other planets that has to be traveled through the Bifrost to get to." Tony supplied helpfully at the confused look on your face. "They should be here in a couple of days. Anyways, let's bring you to meet the rest of 'em."

ₓ˚. ୭ ˚○◦˚.˚◦○˚ ୧ .˚ₓ

THE OTHERS HAD BEEN NERVOUSLY waiting upstairs.

Okay, so most of them weren't actually nervous. Apprehensive and impatient were more of the emotions in the room.

Stephen was sitting in the corner of the room in an armchair, reading a sorcery book like always. At the moment, he was more occupied with the idea of Tony making it home safe than meeting you. Not in any way dismissing his want to meet you, but Tony was the only person that made him feel any sort of emotion that wasn't annoyance. And he loved Tony very much, needing him all of the time in a way he'd never admit to anyone. He needed Tony to be safe.

Bucky, Clint, Sam, and Steve were sitting around a square table, each of them on one side, playing a tense match of cards. They had decided- instead of gambling money which Steve frowned upon- to gamble who got to touch your hand first.

Pepper was there as well, hoping a friendly face- even if you'd only met her once- would help put you at ease if you got uncomfortable.

Peter was sitting at the counter, doing his math homework for his last year of High School. Bruce was sitting next to him- Nat on his other side- attempting to help him.

Wanda and Vision were chatting as they baked together, while Pietro kept zooming around the kitchen, stealing tastes of the food.

Rhodey was leaning against the counter, his arms crossed across his chest, watching the silent, tense card game ensue, rolling his eyes whenever they made stupid moves- mostly Clint.

"Loki is going to be so pissed when he realizes that he missed meeting his soulmate on the first day." Clint said, breaking the silent game.

Bucky just grunted, staring at his cards with fury.

"Unless it's Hoguns' soulmate." Steve yawned, flipping down the next card, which infuriated Bucky even more because he knew he was going to lose.

"Oh right." Clint muttered, picking up a card.

"I win!" Sam announced, tossing down his next card, causing all three of them to flip their heads towards him.

"WHAT?!" Bucky asked, but it was true. Sam had gotten rid of all of his cards and he leaned back cheekily in his chair.

"Nice play Sam." Steve nodded, sighing as he spread the rest of his cards out. "I'm at four."

"Six." Clint grunted.

"Nine." Bucky groaned.

"Damn, you suck at UNO." Sam said, getting up from his chair.

Bucky glared after him. Soulmate or not, no one talked to Bucky like that.

"She's here. Mr. Stark is bringing her up." F.R.I.D.A.Y.s voice came through the intercom in the room.

Stephen breathed a sigh of relief, flipping the page he'd been stuck on for almost ten minutes now in his anxiety.

"Thanks Fri." Rhodey said, getting up from where he was sitting. "I'll meet her another day. Have fun."

Wanda, Vision, Pietro, Nat, Bruce, and Peter had already left, leaving Pepper to be the only one who wasn't a soulmate, sitting at the kitchen island. She was pretending not to notice the room however, going over accounting books for Stark Industries.

Clint scooped up the cards, putting them back neatly into the box. "Well, let's meet her then."

⬅️➡️

[theawkwardterrier]

Broadway AU

Steggy Week 2k23, day 2 Prompt: WIPs and updates

Summary: Having known each other as teenagers, Steve and Peggy are suddenly reunited with the spotlight on them the whole time.

I've posted part of this before, but here's everything I have from this WIP (or semi WIP, since I'm not actively working on it) so far 🤷‍♀️

Thanks to @steggyfanevents​​ for organizing!

Although she didn’t believe in curses, Peggy considered making an amendment to the policy.

Heathrow had been a zoo, and they’d taken off late. She knew that she needed to try for a nap during the flight, but every time she managed to drop off, she would be either shaken awake by turbulence, or bumped by someone walking the aisles with a child or on their way to the restroom. At JFK there was an entirely new set of issues: waiting for a runway and a gate took ages, the agent took so long clearing her at passport control that she wondered if she might have missed the luggage only to find that it had been delayed in arriving at baggage claim and then everyone had to wait an additional ten minutes anyway.

All of this added up to the gradual elimination of the cushion she’d planned for popping over to her new place for a shower and change of clothes. She had a toothbrush, a comb, and some makeup in her carry-on, and took a few moments in the taxi to fix herself up, but she wasn’t a miracle worker and the grimy annoyance of travel couldn’t be completely erased.

As she climbed the stairs up to the rehearsal space (they wouldn’t be in the theater for a while yet) her spine seemed to be straightening itself, steely armor. She knew that there was a group of people, however small, muttering that she’d only come to New York because she didn’t have it in her to play anyone but Edwina. They’d meant it as a bad thing, that she didn’t have the talent for anything else, had simply lucked into the one role she could pull off, and was now too scared to reveal her own inadequacy. For all she knows, the rest of the cast could be whispering such things right now.

She knows her own talent and doesn’t need the hardware to prove it, although she does have that too, lined up on a bookshelf in the London flat which Michael is taking over between tours. But right now, the critics aren’t exactly wrong either. She doesn’t want to slip into anyone’s skin but Edwina’s, not until she has to. And today she has an opportunity to come back to it, and she opens the door ready and eager.

Everything is in disarray inside, people striding around and looking harried in a way they shouldn’t until tech rehearsal at least. Peggy recognizes the director, a man named Phillips who looks as if he’d be more suited to coaching a sports team (or perhaps not even that, just a spectator chewing them out from the stands) but is actually something of a legend. His jaw is clenched so tightly as he shouts at someone that Peggy isn’t entirely certain how the words are getting out.

“What exactly is happening?” she asks a woman around her own age who is hanging back and watching the scene avidly.

“Well, we’re all waiting for the new lead actress to get here - they’re bringing her in from England, and she’s supposed to be the best - and Mr. Erskine - the playwright, Mr. Erskine? - he arrived and found out that Mr. Phillips cast Gilmore Hodge as Kirby even though he - Mr. Erskine, that is - said that he liked someone else during auditions and told Mr. Phillips to cast him. And there was a big argument, because Mr. Phillips is the director, but in the end Mr. Erskine won, and he went to try to get back whoever it was that he liked. So now we’re waiting for both of our leads, and Mr. Erskine too.” She looks away from the action in front of her and finally takes Peggy in. “Well, one of our leads and Mr. Erskine, I guess.”

Peggy grins, somewhat charmed despite herself by the rapid-fire recap. “Peggy Carter. I’ll be playing Edwina. Lovely to meet you.” She extends a hand.

“Angie Martinelli, Delilah. It’s great to have you here.” They shake. Edwina and Delilah don’t have any scenes together, but Delilah’s a strong supporting role and Peggy is glad that it went to someone she instinctively likes.

“Any idea when we’ll be getting started?” Peggy asks. She certainly could go up and introduce herself to the director and ask him, but there’s no reason to place herself into the line of fire quite yet.

Angie shrugs. “I guess we’ll have to wait and see. I don’t know where Mr. Erskine was planning on finding this first choice actor of his, or if he’d even be available. What if he booked something else after Phillips rejected him?”

“And no one has any idea who he is?”

“Some people are speculating it’s Jack Thompson,” Angie offers. Peggy hopes to hell not - she  knows he’s gotten quite a lot of notice, and she’s only ever seen filmed performances of his but she’s always hated the smug, smirking way he’d seemed to approach every role. She doesn’t want to imagine Kirby in his hands - and has to assume that her evaluation of Erskine is such that he would feel the same.

Then Angie turns as the door opens again. “I guess we’ll see,” she says, seeming just short of clasping her hands together in anticipation. 

Erskine walks in first and Peggy smiles at the familiar sight, his unhurried, knowing carriage. But then he beckons a second figure into the room, and Peggy has to catch her smile and paste it tightly on.

Because following Erskine in, apparently here to play the male lead opposite her, is Steve Rogers.

They had both been unlikely candidates for the Yale summer drama program. Neither would be attending Yale in the fall: she was slated for the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, he for a year’s deferment to work and then, as long as his financial aid package came through again, to Tisch. Her parents had only agreed to allow her to travel to the States after heavy argument on her part. His mother would have gladly let him go, but only a last minute freeing up of scholarship funding had allowed him to attend.

But there they had both been, two talented kids in a sea of talent. They had been paired up for a simple mirror exercise on the first day, then for a two person scene on the second. Later, he would tell her that if he hadn’t known that she would be a success just from her confidence, he would have seen it in the way she took a single line and ran through a half-dozen interpretations, each of them excellent, before saying one over again, nodding to herself, and proceeding. She would tell him that she had thought him adorably committed from the start, but it wasn’t until he had begun to cry during a scene and she had reached out automatically to comfort him that she realized how good he actually was.

Their group ended up doing Anne of Green Gables as their final showcase. She was Anne, he was Gilbert. They would stay late running lines together, taking turns going to fetch hot drinks or vending machine snacks. Soon it turned into sitting out in the warm darkness, telling each other things they had rarely said to anyone before: not only about their families and school and the things they loved, but about the foolishness, the hubris, of trying to make a career of acting, and the conviction that they would do it anyway. He would ask for rehearsal breaks when he saw the line forming between her eyes that meant that her heavy red wig was giving her a headache she was too stubbornly professional to mention. The day she accidentally hit Steve with one of the real prop slates instead of the pre-broken one, she told the director that Matthew and Marilla could rehearse their scene instead and took Steve for ice and an apology milkshake.

They kissed after the evening performance, the night before they were each scheduled to go home. He wasn’t Peggy’s first kiss, but as she pressed herself against him, close and solid and eager, she found herself realizing that she hadn’t really been kissed at all before now, not like this.

At first, they would email every few days, but soon it began to feel painfully unfair to tell Steve about her classes, her professors and the parts she was being allowed to take on, when he wasn’t getting to do any of that. There was a tone from his progressively shorter messages, as if he knew it too, as if he wanted to cling to something that did him no good.

And so she had pulled back, even as it hurt, even as she came home at the end of a long day and wanted to hear his voice or at least find his words on her computer screen, sharing one of his firm opinions or telling her about his day, urging her on the way she believed best from him. They had wished each other a happy new year perhaps six years previous and that had been the last time she had spoken with Steve Rogers.

Until, apparently, today.

When they are finally ready to begin, a scowling Phillips, who has clearly lost the argument he had in undertones with Erskine, orders them to the circle of chairs in the center of the room and tells them to introduce themselves. No overly adorable icebreakers here, listing favorite productions or describing yourself with an adjective beginning with your first initial, only names and roles and, for the brave, brief good wishes for the production.

“Peggy Carter, Edwina. I’m excited to be here,” Peggy says when they come to her, pulling calm over herself. Steve is seated half the circle away.

But it is his turn soon. “Steve Rogers. Um, Lee Kirby, I guess.” He glances at Erskine and then, just before the person beside him begins, he adds, “I appreciate getting a chance at this.”

They skip any improv games - perhaps Phillips goes in for them other times, but certainly not today, with time and temper already short - and move right to the table read. She watches Steve  from the corner of her eye, hair drifting forward as she bends over her script, a fresh copy she has already highlighted and vaguely annotated. (She can climb into Edwina’s skin at will, but it’s strategic not to appear too arrogant and would be foolhardy to ignore the shifts and possibilities of a new production.) Erskine places a script in Steve’s hands, patting his shoulder before taking his seat beside Phillips. Steve flips the book open, paging through with just-solid fingers.

He is, she can see, looking at her over the top, more obviously than she is doing to him.

She’d been barely out of school when she auditioned for Abe Erskine. She knew his name, of course, had even played Miss Susan in a student production of A Lonely Prospect, one of his early works.

His new play, Midnight Hour, was the first he had written in fifteen years and the theater scene was buzzing with the prospect of it, batting around words like “awards material” and “instant classic” as they phoned their agents.

The story took place during the Cold War, and it started out as a simple spy story: a young man, Tom Wright, was using the cover of a trip to Stockholm with his sister and best friend to keep tabs on a suspected agent in the city. The sister, Edwina, and the best friend, Lee Kirby, were lightly characterized during the first several scenes, seeming simple and oblivious, uninterested in politics and unknowing of the sort of vital mission which was taking place beneath their noses.

But then, partway through Act 1, Tom was killed, and it was Edwina and Lee who drew into sharp focus as they worked to discover his killer and complete his mission.

Peggy had come in on the last day of auditions. She’d had the scene for a week by that point, and the dialogue flowed smoothly. There was a line she had never quite gotten the right tone on when she was working it through on her own, but in the audition she had the exact iciness she wanted with just the faintest hint of a question mark at the end: a girl who was very good at dress-up but still a girl beneath it.

Three days later, she got the call that the part was hers and she knew, even before her agent gleefully crowed the words, that this was going to change everything for her.

She had forgotten how good Steve is. He knows the script but clearly not very well, stumbling over words, and still there’s already a sense of character there, even as they just run lines in this empty space.

And she knows, just as everyone does, that there’s an obvious reason Phillips wanted shark-faced, good-looking Jack Thompson instead. James Falsworth, who had originated the role opposite Peggy in London, had been handsome though not particularly imposing, and that had been the trick of it, watching him transform, his face hardening, a toughness brewing as the story went on. But Steve is more than not imposing: he’s slim in the shoulders, delicately-featured, small. It’s perhaps hard to picture him having the power necessary to punch into Kirby’s monologue toward the end of the first act, hard to imagine watching him move believably through both cool confidence and flickering self-doubt, hard to anticipate his face twisting into the anger necessary to support the character into life.

But Erskine must have seen what Peggy was once able to: that Steve has talent enough to do it, that when you walk away from seeing his Kirby you haven’t forgotten your initial doubts, you remember them strongly enough to realize how he’s surpassed them.

It’s so perfect for Kirby’s character that it makes Peggy’s head spin a bit.

[ryeriy]

Hi guys! This wasn't requested but was inspired by the song 'You Are In Love by Taylor Swift'. It's a little short but hope you like it. If you like this post please like and follow. Request if you have any. Enjoy!

Warnings: mentions of slight swearing

Can I Tell You Something?

I've been friends with Ethan since freshman year of high school. We were unstoppable in high school. Ethan and Y/n. Y/n and Ethan.

It was late at night. Had to have been one o'clock in the morning. All the sudden my phone started ring. I went to pick it up and it was Ethan. Why was he calling now?

"Hello?" I said tiredly while rubbing my eyes.

"Umm...hi...sorry to bother you but I need to talk to you about something." I could hear the nervousness in his voice. Something had to have happened.

"Is everything okay?" I asked.

"Yeah...everything is fine. I just need to talk to you." He replied.

"Well what is it?" I asked him while holding the phone to the side of my face.

"I know it's late at night and I probably woke you up but this is just killing me inside and I couldn't sleep and I need to tell you." I could almost hear his heartbeat. That's how nervous he was.

"Go on..." I was starting to get worried myself.

"Can I ask you something?" He asked.

"Ask away." I replied.

"Do you ever think about me?" He says. I was shocked at what I heard. I had to think about it.

"I mean sometimes I do. Do you ever think about me?" I asked him back. I was so curious why he asked.

"All the time." His voice changed when he said that. He sounded more relaxed.

"Really?" I questioned him.

"Yeah...I mean that's why I called. I couldn't get you off my mind and I just needed to talk to you." He confesed to me.

"So that's why you called?" I asked.

"Well there's something else." He added.

"What is it?" Well if that wasn't the reason why he was calling what was.

"Shit...I don't know how to say this but here goes nothing...I love you Y/n and I just couldn't stop thinking about you and couldn't hold this in anymore. This might completely ruin our relationship but I couldn't lie to you anymore." Oh my god. Did my best friend just admit to being in love with me?

"How long?" I asked him. I didn't know what to say to him. I was speechless.

"Since senior year of high school. I just didn't want to ruin anything we had."

Holy shit. My hot best friend just admitted to being in love with me since senior year of high school. Wait did I say hot?! I mean maybe I've thought about Ethan like that but I never thought he felt the same way.

"Sometimes when I'm alone I think about you like that. Not going to lie when you just told me that I thought about you like that." I revealed to him.

"Well of course when I admit I've had a crush on you since senior year of high school you'd think about me like that." He chuckles after that to make himself better. It made me laugh a bit too. Put a small smile on my face.

"I did think about you other times that weren't now." I told him.

I guess maybe we both liked each other but never wanted to say anything because we were afraid the other didn't want that. Or afraid of rejection.

"You did?" He questioned.

"Yeah. In school. While I'm home for break. During your games. Before I sleep. Happens a lot quite frankly." I blurted out without holding back. I let out a soft hugh of laughter after. He replied with a soft chuckle.

"I know this is really bad timing but how about I call you or meet up with you later and we can talk about this?" He suggests to me.

"Yeah that'd be great." I answered.

"Goodnight Y/n." He said ever so softly. It gave me chills throughout my body. I just felt a click in my heart go off.

"Goodnight Ethan." I said back. My tone of voice sounded flustered. I think he could tell.

He was the one to hang up. I felt a click go off. A spark of some sort. I looked at my phone and put it down beside me before staring straight at my ceiling. Now he had me thinking about him the whole time I should've been sleeping.