#i mean. i already caught mine anyway. but it's still annoying

[on-my-vigilante-sht]

Everything

Haymitch Abernathy x Reader

Summary: Haymitch is desperate to keep his darling safe and with him, even at the expense of her feelings.

Warning: no use of Y/N, possessive Haymitch, mentions of Haymitch's past, age-gap relationship, coerced relationship, power imbalance, mentions of drinking, Haymitch is such a red flag in this

A/N heavily inspired by @kining-the-evil's yandere!Haymitch fics

Word Count: 3.4k

Masterlist

Sitting at the kitchen table, Haymitch stared at his darling as she stood at the sink. The rush of running water filled the comfortable silence as he silently admired her.

No one in the Capitol had bothered to pay him much mind after the first couple years following his games. Even Snow. He had thought the president was always watching. It’s part of what made him keep his distance from the girl before him for so long. But it seemed Snow thought he had taken everything from the victor. That he thought after several years of nothing but drunk isolation that his revenge against Haymitch was thoroughly complete. In some ways it was, Haymitch hadn’t even given anyone a second thought until two decades after his games.

“The usual?” Hattie asked her former protégé, her annoyed voice going ignored by the already drunk man.

“Yeah,” he slurred. As Hattie turned to grab the bottles, Haymitch took a look around. The Hob looked just as it always did, sad and grey full of sad and grey people. But his eyes flickered over a slight swish of color, catching the blue fabric briefly before searching for it with his eyes again.

There he caught sight of the bright blue again. It was a dress layered on a girl looking far too happy to be in the Hob. She looked like a townie, her dress too clean, her skin too radiant. No, this girl had never worked in the mines. She didn’t have the same starved frame of members of the Seam. She was definitely a townie.

The bottles clanking on the table behind him brought Haymitch back to reality. He thanked his former employer, paying her for the liquor before leaving. His mind still enraptured by the girl who was most definitely in the wrong place.

Five years later that girl he had seen at the Hob was now in his home. He wasn’t necessarily proud of it but once he finally got her in, she had hardly left.

“Hey, darling?” he caught her attention. Her head whirled around, a smile breaking out on her face as they made eye contact. Haymitch would never get over that smile. “Can you come here?”

She nodded, turning back to the sink to drop the plate she had been washing and shake off her hands. So sweet, so eager to please him. She stepped over to the table, taking the seat next to him and looking up at him with earnest eyes.

“So you know the Victory Parade is starting soon right?” She just nodded. “And that means more Peacekeepers, more cameras, more people?” She just nodded again. “Well, that means I’ll be out of the house more. And then I’ll be gone again for the tour.”

Her expression fell a bit as she looked down. She nodded again, taking a moment. “So you want me to stay here? Like when you leave for the games?”

“Yeah,” he agreed. He then got more serious, reaching across the table to grab her hands. “Look I don’t wanna scare you but you have to make sure no one sees you. Y’know the Peacekeepers? The Capitol people?” She nodded again, this time her face mirroring his concern. “If they see you, they’ll report you to Snow. And he will kill you,” he stressed. “Do you understand?”

“Yeah,” she agreed shakily. She knew all of his warnings and his rules. Ever since she had moved in with him nearly five years ago he had the same rule. Never leave. He told her about the president of Panem. How he had killed everyone Haymitch had loved before and how he’d do it again. At the time she thought he was just paranoid but agreed anyways. Until she had once left.

Standing in the kitchen, she was eager to welcome Haymitch back from his time in the Capitol. She had proudly plated the fresh stew she made using some deer meat she scored at the Hob. Along with the stew there was a makeshift vase of flowers picked from the meadow behind the house. She had been cutting them and bringing them inside since Haymitch left in order to brighten up the darkness of the home that came with his absence.

Hearing the door open, she turned towards the noise with a smile. “Welcome back!” she cheered , approaching him.

Haymitch had smiled, welcoming her embrace with open arms. Wrapping his arms around her, he reveled in her touch. He was so relieved to see her again. The entire time he had been in the Capitol his mind was plagued with thoughts of Peacekeepers breaking down the door and him not being there to protect her. But here she was, safe and sound in his arms.

But when he opened his eyes, looking over her shoulder, a coldness creeped into his previously full heart. He went rigid as he saw the flowers proudly displayed in a glass that was acting as a vase. “Wh- what are those?” he asked, his voice becoming deadly.

Feeling uneasy, the girl in his arms pulled away slightly. She turned, observing the kitchen. “What?” she asked hesitantly, sensing that she had messed up. “The flowers?” she guessed, finding nothing else obviously out of place.

“Yeah,” Haymitch confirmed her suspicions. “Where did you get those?”

Her breath quickened as she realized he was upset. “Just out back,” she answered, her voice gaining a lilt of anxiety. “Haymitch… what’s wrong?” The man was getting visibly angrier and something inside of her was stirring to ease him.

“So you went outside?” he asked menacingly, turning to face her.

“I mean, yeah,” she admitted, backing up slightly. “I didn’t go far! Just right out back to the patch of flowers!” she tried to defend.

He let out a frustrated sigh. “Do you not remember what I explicitly told you when you first moved in and again when I left? Don’t go outside!” he shouted, eliciting a yelp from her.

“I’m sorry!” she cried, tears now flowing down her cheeks. “I just thought-”

“No. You weren’t thinking, otherwise you wouldn’t have left. You don’t put yourself in danger when I have everything to lose!”

Overwhelmed, tears began to fall from her eyes as she shrunk into herself.

Seeing her meek state, the anger melted, leaving genuine concern as he saw her tears. He sighed. “Oh, darling,” he tried to soothe her. Stepping closer to the crying woman he wrapped her in his arms again, cradling her head against his chest. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to yell. I’m just worried for you. You need to understand that bad things will happen to you if you’re not careful. Okay?” She nodded against his chest, her cries reduced to sniffles. “Okay,” he confirmed, shushing her as he stroked her hair.

“So, um, how long will you be gone?” she asked.

“Just a week. Not quite as long as the games.”

She just nodded, looking down at her lap. “I thought this was for Peeta and Katniss. Do you really have to go?”

Haymitch smiled, endeared at her attachment to him. It had taken him a while to make her this attached, but it made it so she no longer ever left. “Yeah, I have to. I gotta make sure they stay in line. Keep their story alive, y’know?”

“Will I ever get to meet them?” she asked hesitantly.

Haymitch sighed. “You know you can’t, darling. Not with all the Capitol’s focus on them. It’s too dangerous.”

She just nodded, standing up and going back over to finish the dishes. Sensing her disappointment, Haymitch got up, standing behind her so he could wrap his arms around her waist. He squeezed her, practically willing her to believe that she didn’t need anyone else. That she didn’t need to meet Katniss and Peeta.

“I’m sorry,” he murmured quietly against her ear. “But I can’t risk anything happening to you. I love you.”

The woman in his arms practically melted. “I love you too,” she affirmed, craning her neck to press a kiss to his cheek.

Their moment was then interrupted by a deep rumble coming from outside. Haymitch suddenly stiffened, pushing her away from the window as he tried to peer out.

“Haymitch?” his darling asked worriedly, already moving to the corner so she’d be out of the view. “What’s going on?”

“I don’t know,” he murmured, stepping closer to the window, peering out into Victor’s Village. The little neighborhood looked just as it always did, untouched yet well maintained. But as he looked out onto the street that led to the town square, Haymitch could see chaos emerging. Large utility vehicles were rolling through the streets inciting panic as people frantically ran away from Peacekeepers brandishing their guns.

“Oh shit,” he cursed. Spinning on his heel, Haymitch practically lunged at the girl standing in the corner with a concerned expression. Grabbing her shoulders he began pushing her backwards towards the stairs. “Go to the office and hide,” he ordered.

Already knowing the drill, she nodded, spinning around to sprint up the stairs. Just as she reached the darkened, hardly ever used room, she heard the front door slam shut as Haymitch ran out the door.

The room Haymitch had dubbed the office was really a glorified closet in the attic. The ceiling came to a point along with the roof and the room was cramped and dark. The only form of respite was the tiny circular window facing out over their front yard. At first she did as Haymitch told her to do the first time she hid up here. She just sat quietly out of view of the window. The screams and shouts of District 12 citizens and Peacekeeprs gnawed at her soul. She wanted to help, knew she should help. But her promise to Haymitch to never leave and recalling his anger those years ago kept her firmly rooted in place. However, some shouts from the yard were too much for her to resist.

“Katniss!” a slightly shrill voice called. Recognizing the voice of the Victor’s little sister and hearing the sheer terror in the girl’s voice, she couldn’t help but look.

Crawling over to the window, she sat on her knees to peek up through the glass. Sure enough a young girl with blonde hair was just standing in Katniss’ yard while a girl with a dark braid was sprinting down towards the town square. Then, another flash of blonde—hair belonging to Peeta—also began running down the street, calling after the brunette.

Terror coursed through her as her mind concocted all the horrible things that could happen to the only other people Haymitch cared about. But she just kept reminding herself of her promise to him. Until something caught her eye. An unusually thick plume of black smoke emerging from the other side of town. This wasn’t the sputtering stream of gray that came from the coal mines, this was an emergency.

The part of her loyal to Haymitch got quieter as the smoke got thicker. And by the time she had sprinted out the door for the first time in years the voice was gone.

~

“Come on! This way!” Haymitch shouted, urging people away from the burning black market. Peering into the smog, he tried to look for anyone that needed help but the smoke was so dark and thick thanks to all the merchandise burning he couldn’t see a damn thing.

“Haymitch!” came a shout from behind him. Whirling around, he found Otho Mellark running towards him. Concern swirled in the Victor as he had never seen Otho do much of anything. “It’s Katniss,” he huffed. “She’s arguing with a Peacekeeper in the square… Peeta’s…”

He didn’t even let the baker finish his explanation before taking off. No, no, no, no. You stupid girl, he thought.

Arriving in the center of town, Haymitch found a wide ring of people surrounding what looked like a whipping post. They were giving the Peacekeeper holding a whip plenty of berth as Katniss kneeled between him and the bleeding mess of a man tied to the pole, her own cheek marred by a whip lash.

“You want another?” he heard the menacing man in white ask. Katniss didn’t respond with a sarcastic comment—for once—rather, she just stood defiantly, not moving from between Gale and the Peacekeeper. Incensed, the man pulled out his gun, pointing it at Katniss.

Ignighted by the sight, Haymitch tore through the crowd. “Hey! Hey! Hey!” he interrupted, emerging into the center of the square. The man in white turned furiously, facing him. Haymitch held his hands up, trying to dispell the situation as he positioned himself in front of Katniss. “What’s going on?”

“She interfered with a Peacekeeper,” the man spat.

“I never said she was smart,” Haymitch quipped, trying to dispel the situation. “Do you know who that girl is? Katniss Everdeen? Darling of the Capitol?”

Just as the man in white began calming down, taking a moment to evaluate Katniss, Peeta emerged from the crowd. “What’s going on?” he asked, also trying to dispel the situation. But another interferer just served to make the Peacekeeper angrier.

Haymitch turned to face Peeta, prepared to send the boy away when he caught a glimpse of a familiar face in the crowd. He froze for a second, convinced his mind was playing tricks on him. She wouldn’t come here, she knows that she definitiely shouldn’t be interfering here. But as his eyes scanned the crowd once more, finding her face. Her beautiful, terrified, stupid face. He cursed in his mind. He nearly yelled at her to go home. He wanted to march over and whisk her away. But the logical part of his mind reminded him that if he engaged with her any longer that’d just put a target on her back. Plus, he still had to deal with this.

Returning his attention back to the issue at hand, Haymitch found Peeta trying to calm the increasingly irritated Peacekeeper. “Look,” he interrupted, ending their squabbling, “you got a few good lashes in. Let me take her home before we end up with three dead victors on the eve of the big wedding.”

The man’s jaw tightened as he considered the implications of ignoring Haymitch. With a grunt of frustration his gun fell back to his sign. “Fine, but next time it’s the firing squad. I don’t care who she is.”

Haymitch let out a breath of air he hadn’t realized he was holding. “Okay,” he agreed.

The new head Peacekeeper turned his gun up to the sky, firing a single shot. “Clear the square!” his voice reverberated through the now silent town. “Anyone out after dark will be shot on sight.”

Haymitch resisted the urge to find his darling in the crowd, scared the the direction of his gaze alone would draw Snow’s attention to her. As he turned to help Katniss with her childhood friend, his thoughts never left her. Is she on her way home? Did anyone notice her? Did the Peacekeepers notice her?

As they carried the bleeding, whimpering man through the streets Haymitch couldn’t help but look for signs of his girl. And once they finally settled the man in the Everdeens’ kitchen and Haymitch could leave without raising suspicion or giving away his rapidly beating heart, he left.

It killed him to walk slowly across the street and to his home. He wanted to tear across the yard and yank open the door, desperate to know she was ok. Looking up at the home, he found it looking as dark and empty as it ever did. He was torn between wanting some indication that she was home and wanting it to look dark and empty so she’d be safe.

Opening up the door, he found it just like he always did. Dark, and empty. Her name was practically climbing out of his throat, begging to be screamed for a faster indication that she was home safe. But the fear of someone overhearing kept him quiet. He wasted no time going up to the attic level that served as the third floor. Immediately, he went to the office, wrenching open the door.

Immediately he was confronted by her embrace as she threw her arms around him, desperate to keep him from getting mad. At first, Haymitch was relieved, returning her embrace so tight it was like he was trying to melt her into him. But as the initial relief subsided, anger replaced it. His grip on her became so impossibly tight as anger coursed through him, his warm embrace became a vise grip.

He pulled away from her, yanking himself out of her arms that were desperate to keep him calm. His grip fell on her shoulders, holding them tight as he practically shook her. “What the hell were you thinking?” he spat. “Do you know how much danger you put yourself in? You could’ve just undone everything I do to protect you!”

The tears, which were already flowing from her eyes before Haymitch arrived home, flowed harder. “I’m sorry,” she cried. “I know I shouldn’t have left. But I was scared for you!” she defended. “I had to make sure you were okay.”

“When are you gonna get it through your head that that’s not your job! You are mine and that means it’s my job to keep you safe. You belong to me that means you do not get to put yourself in danger.” His voice was shaking with fury.

“Haymitch please, you’re hurting me,” she begged.

But he didn’t care, couldn’t care right now. Maybe the little bit of pain from his grip was necessary to get her to understand the sheer ache in his heart at the thought of losing her. The though of losing everything, again.

“Look, you are mine and that means you’re everything to me. You don’t get to flout my rules. They’re made to keep you safe.”

“I don’t want to be safe,” she finally admitted. “Haymitch, I love you but you’re suffocating me. I can’t keep living like this,” she shouted back, but her shouts still remained relatively quiet, careful not to draw too much attention. “I went to make sure you were safe. You get to put all these rules over me to keep me safe but I’m not allowed to be concerned about you?”

He froze, realizing what was happening but he couldn’t bring himself to say anything in response. He thought he had her, thought she was surely his.

“I can’t do this anymore Haymitch. You’re suffocating me.”

The victor wasn’t thinking anymore. All he could do was react. “No,” he answered her. “No, you’re not leaving. You’re mine and I’ll do whatever it takes to remind you of that.”

“Haymit-”

“What do I have to do to keep you?” he interrupted. “I lost everything and then I found you. I’m not letting you go but I’m willing to keep you happy. So what do I have to do?”

She sighed as she evaluated his hurt expression. She could feel her already shattered heart breaking even more as she looked into his sad eyes, practically begging her to stay. Her resolve was disappearing as she remembered Haymitch’s past. He hadn’t told her much but he did tell her that the Capitol took everything from him after his games.

“Just… stay safe,” she conceded to him. “We can reevaluate rules later?” she asked.

Haymitch sighed in releif, his grip relaxing enough so he could pull her into his chest, his arms wrapping around her as he buried his face in her hair. “Yeah, sure,” he placated her. “That’s my girl,” he praised. “Right? You’re my girl?”

“Yeah,” she agreed, letting out a shuddering sigh as she let herself fall into his consuming embrace.

Masterlist

[riordanness]

sparks fly — [p.jackson]

pairing: percy jackson x reader

wordcount: 1.0K

warnings: percy is hot

“Wait,” I hold up both hands and stare in delight at my half-sister. “Beckendorf actually asked you?”

“Yes!” Silena is a flushing mess, sitting cross legged on her bunk as our whole cabin is getting ready for breakfast.

There’s a short round of squeals, and I skip over and sit beside her, throwing a playful arm over her shoulder.

“I’m so glad for you,” I say, a pleased little smile on my face. Charles Beckendorf, or just Beckendorf, as we all called him, had been the object of Silena’s crush for ages. Like, long enough to be frustratingly annoying. But it seems the boy had finally caught on, as he’d just asked her last night to attend the Fourth of July fireworks show on the beach with him. Oh, and by the way, that’s like the biggest dating event of the year at Camp.

“Thanks, girl.” Silena smiles, and then nudges me knowingly. “Has he asked you yet?”

“Huh?” I play innocent. “Who?”

“Percy Jackson,” everyone choruses. Okay, maybe I’m not the subtlest when it comes to liking someone. Everyone knows about it. Except, apparently, Percy.

“No,” I say, shrugging. “He probably won’t.”

“Girl, then you ask him.” Lacy throws a pillow at me, which I catch and throw back. She laughs when it hits her and falls to the ground.

“I am not doing that,” I say indignantly.

“Why not?” Delia chirps up. “Girls can do the asking, that’s not even weird these days.”

“I know that,” I argue. “I just like the traditional ways. Boys ask.”

Delia shrugs. “Okay, whatever. Just don’t be surprised if you end up going to the fireworks alone.”

I don’t answer, just shrug on my pink jacket and head to the dining hall for breakfast.

I wasn’t surprised when Percy ended up finding me later that morning, sitting on the canoe lake pier and gazing out into the sparkling water.

“Hey, you,” he says easily, swinging himself down to sit beside me, our legs dangling. I notice that we’re both wearing our converse today. No surprise there in my case; I’m always wearing mine. They’re old and battered and doodled on to death, but they’re my comfort shoes. Percy’s are blue, naturally, and slightly less worn out.

“Hey,” I say back, nudging my best friend’s shoulder good-naturedly. “Where were you at breakfast? Didn’t see you.”

Percy shrugs, his sea green eyes fixed solidly on the water. His eyes are just as sparkly as it is.

“Yeah, sorry, I, um. Slept in.” Percy runs his hand through his dark hair, messing it up even more than it already was.

I raise an eyebrow. “Slept in? Dude. Come on, what’s really up?”

Percy kind of half laughs. “Okay, yeah. I wasn’t asleep. I didn’t sleep much at all last night, actually. I was… thinking about something.”

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.”

I wait, but Percy doesn’t seem to wait to elaborate. “Cool. Well, anyway, the fireworks are tonight.”

“You excited?”

“Of course I am excited,” I say, giving him a smile. “I love the fireworks show. And, Nyssa told me it’s their best display yet this year. I can’t wait.”

Percy is quiet, his gaze still lingering on the water. “Hey, y/n?”

“Mm?” I reply, my gaze still lingering on him, as it always seems to.

“Are you going with anyone tonight?”

I hesitate, my heart pounding. “You mean like on a date?”

“Yeah,” Percy says, his voice hushed. He finally meets my eyes.

“No,” I whisper, shaking my head. “Not yet.”

Percy stares at me for a second, seemingly trying to form the words. Gods, he’s such an awkward idiot.

Finally, he pushes out a stumbling, “Will you go with me?”

“Yes,” I say immediately. “Absolutely, yes.”

“Yeah?” Percy looks surprised, which makes me laugh.

“Yes,” I repeat, reaching over and lacing our fingers together. “I wouldn’t want to go with anyone else.”

Percy half smiles, and half laughs, and says, “And here I was, all scared and nervous about asking you.”

I nudge him playfully, squeezing his hand. “Don’t be silly.”

There are campers everywhere, on picnic blankets and deck chairs and towels, or just simply sitting on the sand. Most people are paired off in couples, and for the first year of my life, so am I.

Percy runs over to me, a stupid grin on his face. His dark hair is messy and windswept, like he’s been running on the beach for hours.

“Hey, you,” he says, arriving at my side, a little breathless. He laces his fingers easily through mine, and I’d be lying if I said my heart didn’t speed up, the heat spreading to my cheeks.

“Hi,” I say back, suddenly shy in his presence. Which is ridiculous. We’ve been the bestest of friends for years, why am I suddenly nervous now?

I know why.

It’s because I’m hyper aware of the fact that before this moment, I’ve never had to worry about the fact that any second, Percy might kiss me.

“Come on.” He tugs on my arm gently, leading me through the crowd, until we reach a blue and white checked picnic blanket. Percy has brought strawberries, chocolate, and a six pack of Coke cans. I turn, and his glittering sea green eyes are staring into mine, a little nervous.

“Is it okay?” he asks softly. “I’ve never taken anyone on a date before.”

My heart swells with love and gratitude and pure, pure joy. “Percy, gods, it’s perfect. You’re perfect.”

His face breaks into the biggest smile, and I swear, he’s never looked more attractive than right now.

“Gods, I could kiss you right now,” he says, then flushes awkwardly. “I—I mean—“

“Do it,” I whisper, cutting him off.

“Huh?” Percy looks at me, mostly confused.

“Kiss me,” I reply, my heart beating fast. Where is all this bravery coming from? Inside, I’m a nervous mess of emotions.

“Okay.” Percy grins, and doesn’t hesitate to pull me towards him, his mouth on mine without a second to lose.

Would it be incredibly cliché to say that sparks flew as we kissed? Yes, it would be. But it’s true. Literally. Because at that exact second, the fireworks display began, explosions of gorgeous colours lighting up the sky around him, so my first kiss was kind of insanely unforgettable.

[mattyriddlesbitch]

Journal

Lorenzo Bershire x Reader

Warnings: Kissing

Request from @helendeath

You became friends with the boys pretty early on in your time at Hogwarts. You all became really close, spending a lot of time together.

A few years ago, Theo had gotten both you and Enzo the same journal for your birthdays since they were so close together and you seemed to really like how Enzo's looked when he got his. It never really caused any problems or mixups, you both were pretty careful to keep it in your own dorms.

That was until you were in a rush out of your dorm and packed it in your bag with your class books. You decided to study in the library with Mattheo, Theo, and Enzo. You pulled all your books out and put them beside you, not realizing your journal was among them. Once you were done with your studying-more like the boys messing around and trying to distract you-you packed your books away and left with Enzo.

Mattheo noticed the journal that was left behind first. He knew how secretive Enzo could be of his, so he put it in his bag to give to Enzo later.

A couple hours later, in the common room, Theo, Draco, Blaise and Mattheo were relaxing on some of the couches and chatting when Enzo came in.

“You forgot your journal.” Mattheo called to him before tossing the journal to him.

Enzo caught it but frowned in confusion. “Thanks.” He said and opened the journal as he sat down with them, very quickly realizing it wasn't his. He was about to close it when he saw his name. He felt so guilty, but he's only human after all.

“We didn't touch it or do anything to it, if that's what you're checking for.” Mattheo said.

“No, no, that's not…” Enzo trailed off, too focused on your journal. His eyebrows raised as he read a specific sentence. One that said you have a crush on him.

“What's going on?” Theo asked, all the boys now looking at Enzo in confusion.

He closed the journal suddenly, very roughly. “I have to go.” Enzo said as he stood up, hurrying off to your dorm.

“I don't think that was his journal.” Mattheo said after a moment of silence.

You were in a panic at your dorm, looking for the journal. You searched through all your drawers, your bags, any hidden spots in your dorm. You didn't want anyone to read it. And if you misplaced it and someone decided to read it, you'd die of embarrassment.

Your dorm door swung open, revealing Enzo holding up said journal, breathing a bit heavily like he ran to you.

“Is that my-” You started.

“You have a crush on me.” Enzo blurted out, still in shock himself to even try acting casual.

Your eyes widened, blush spreading over your cheeks as you opened your mouth to say something, but closed it, unsure of how to respond. You could deny it, but it seems he already read it. You could confirm it, but the words didn't seem to want to come out of your mouth anyways.

Enzo closed your dorm door as he tried composing himself better. “I didn't mean to pry, I thought it was mine, but then I saw that.”

You stared at him for another second before even being able to say something. “I…That's really embarrassing.” You said, dropping your gaze to the floor. “You weren't supposed to read that. No one was.”

“No, no, no.” He said as he stepped closer, tossing the journal onto your desk before cupping your cheeks and making you look up at him. “I'm sorry, I shouldn't have read it. But it's not embarrassing.”

“How is it not embarrassing? The guy I like read how I wrote about him.” You let out a frustrated sigh.

“Because maybe the guy you like likes you back.” He said with a small smile.

“‘Maybe���?” You repeated, a little annoyed, but also very hopeful.

“Yeah, you should ask him.” He teased.

You let out another sigh, fighting back a smile. “Fine. Lorenzo Berkshire, do you like me?”

“In what context?”

“Enzo!” You groaned and he chuckled.

“Yes.” He answered, smiling softly at you now. “I do like you.”

“Does that mean you wrote about me too?” You asked him.

“Mmm. Possibly.”

“You suck at answering questions.”

He chuckled again before leaning in and kissing you softly, his thumbs brushing over your cheeks gently.

“I suppose I can let you read mine and find out.” He said against your lips with a smile as he pulled back from the kiss.

“It's only fair since you read mine.”

“That was an accident!” He said, pulling back further so you could see his little pout.

“That's what you say.”

“You don't believe me?”

“Should I?” You smiled at him.

“I thought you loved me.”

“I said I have a crush on you. Big difference.”

“One day, you will.” He said before leaning in to kiss you again.

Taglist:

@jeannie-beannie @yourenogoodforme @mixvchelle @helendeath @evaslytherpuff

@soaked4abby @hpnsfwaddict @mayamonroem @brittney-121 @leovaldezsbitch

@dracoslovergirl @littlemadamred @mattheoriddlesbitch @acornacreacure @opheliamalfoy236

@demieyesore @akira1246 @queenshu @prettypinkprincess15 @starryslytherin0

Let me know if you wanna be added!

[subajelly]

Indirect: Ogata x Reader

Tags: Friends to Lovers, Confessions, Ogata is kinda mean and wonders why he ain't got no friends (Fatphobia against Tanigaki)

You haven't had a pear in a hot minute.

You and the group are spread out in an orchid, helping a local farmer for harvest. In exchange, you can get two baskets of pears. Being the herbologist of the group, you pick the less ripe plants to last the week, and a few ripe ones for today. When everyone is done, you're happy to get your share of the green lumps and take a bite. You're sitting on a bench, a bit away from the others, humming and swinging your feet as you take your fill.

Next to you is Ogata. You two like to sit together sometimes and decompress when the others get too rowdy. Before, you wouldn't have thought of having this routine, given the way you'd butt heads, but you like to think that he attached himself to you when he found someone almost as quiet as him. Ogata insists that you're just as loud as the others but know when to shut up.

He holds a pear and slowly peels it with quiet precision. He doesn't look at you. “You seem happy.”

“Yeah. We haven't had fruit in…” You chew in thought. “Forever. It's taking me too long to remember, so- yeah.”

“Two weeks.” He answers. “It's nice, I guess. I'm more of a cherry person.”

“I like peaches more, but pears are still good. I like the texture.”

“Even the skin?” Ogata points to the ground.

You look down and kick a poorly ripped pear skin away from you. “Okay, I hate the skin. And, it's too hard to peel.”

“Hmm.” Ogata easily finishes peeling his, cutting it in fourths, and taking a bite.

“…Can you cut mine?”

He pauses and looks at the half-eaten fruit. “You already bit into it.”

“Then cut me a new one.”

“Pft. Greedy-ass.” He takes another pear and peels it for you anyway.

“Says the guy who's always stuffing his face.” You refer to his eating habits. The way he eats is akin to a squirrel filling its cheeks. It’s kind of cute when he and the other guys do it - all of the guys have that habit - it would be endearing if you didn’t always have to treat him and the others for nausea. Your mint supply always suffers.

A small crunch takes you out of your thoughts. Even now, the glutton bites mouthfuls out of the fruit in hand. He doesn't wipe his face when juice spurts out. You don't expect that from someone who compulsively pushes his hair out of his face. For now, he's content with stuffing his face with fruit, not caring for the juices that sometimes leak out and drip down his chin. Another annoying drop of juice runs over one of his cheek scars. You see your hand reach out and wipe the juice from his cheek with your thumb. Bringing your thumb to your lips, you lick it off.

Ogata's eyes narrow, scrutinizing your face. Then they look around the camp. Everyone is too caught up in their conversations. You realize what you did and dread overwhelms you. You feel the need to move away from him, but before you can move, he grabs your wrist. He brings your thumb - the same one that touched him - to his lips. He looks you in the eye, presses an open-mouthed kiss on the thumbpad, and licks a circle around the digit before departing. Then he goes back to eating.

You blink. The contact with Ogata's lips shot a tingle up your arm, and you find your chest warming. You stuff your face with pear slices, hoping to eat these unsure feelings away.

You later find yourself chewing on the thumb he kissed as if contact with your mouth could help understand what happened between you. You weren't even trying to be flirty, but Ogata took it and responded in kind. You could still feel the tingling from his chapped lips on your thumb.

It doesn’t help that he’s purposely ignoring you for the rest of the day. You can see the bastard sitting with Kiroranke, talking about nothing. You chew your thumb even more, watching the way Ogata's lips move in conversation. You start to reevaluate everything. The warm timbre of his voice. The way you always felt intrigued by his cat-like mannerisms. The way his scars curve up his sharp jaw and to his straight nose. Dammit, was he always-

Ogata suddenly turns towards you. Your eyes meet cold greys, slowly blinking back at you like a cat. He sticks his tongue out, and it's gone in a flash. You blush. Kiroranke is too caught up in his tale to notice. You're reminded of the small gesture of Ogata pressing his chapped lips to your thumb, and your chest gets warm again. You tear your eyes away, chewing at your thumb.

It's the next morning. You don't know what to do with yourself. You were bold, yes. But it's mostly in response to others, not something you initiate with. It hid an inexperienced awkwardness you're hyper-aware of. Still, when the group visits the next town and you're paired with Ogata to get supplies. You're wired at the thought of being alone with him, but you focus on your task and make him hold all of the goods to keep him busy. The two of you are at a fabric stand purchasing a spool of thread.

“You'd think Tanigaki's fat-ass would buy a new shirt instead of using up all the thread fixing his buttons.” You hear him grumble as he readjusts the other bags.

You smack him hard on the arm. He nearly trips, but you grab his arm, keeping him and the bags from falling over. That familiar tingle shoots up your arm, and you quickly let him go, coughing.

“You're so mean! Inkarmat insists on fixing it.” You giggle, just picturing the fox-lady doting on the shy bear. “She probably admires the view when he takes it off.”

Ogata lets out a shudder. “Still, why do we have to replace it?”

“Cause there's other things we need to get and it's in our direction. Did you wanna go bullet browsing with the boys instead?”

“Kiroranke knows what to get.”

It’s not long until you two are finished getting your part of the list. It was miscellaneous medical supplies on your end. There’s still time before you have to meet with the others, so you decide to get a snack. You drag Ogata to a nearby dango stand and order for the two of you. When you sit down at a neighboring bench, Ogata is already digging into the squishy pastry. Some of the soy sauce sticks to the side of his mouth, and he licks it off. He's missed some. You feel your teeth itch.

“You call Tanigaki a fat-ass, and yet look at you, stuffing your cheeks like a squirrel.”

Ogata swallows before scoffing. “Do you always have to scold me about-”

He doesn't get to finish. He freezes when he feels your tongue licking the sauce from his face. You feel him stiffen for a moment before swallowing. You pull away, but he grabs your arm. That familiar tingle shoots up your limb, and the look between you is supercharged.

His eyes have shifted to storm clouds. “What was that?”

You steel yourself, looking back defiantly. “Just licking you and leaving you to dry. I’m only copying you.”

“What I did yesterday was not the same.” he deadpans. He looks down at your lips and perks up as if he fully processed what you said. He licks his lips. “Out to dry…you wanted something more?”

“I want an explanation.”

“I like you.”

He lets go of your arm and looks down at his food. His ears are slightly pink at the tips. He takes smaller bites this time. If you squint a little, you can see the tips of his ears turn red. Your heart swells.

You lean against him, taking a bite of your dango and swallowing before trying, “I think you look cute when you stuff your face.”

“…Really.” He’s skeptical.

“Yeah! Or when you hunt, you have that pleased look on your face, like a cat bringing in a mouse.”

Ogata takes a bite of his last dango. He closes his eyes before turning to you. “Hmm. You remind me of a dog.”

You blink. “How so?”

“Your nose for one. You can tell herbs apart by smell. Hell, you usually can tell if one of us is sick with just one whiff. And you yap a lot.”

“Pft. You don't seem to mind.”

“Only because you actually can sit in silence sometimes. Unlike the others. You're the least annoying person here.”

You chuckle. “Glad to know I'm tolerated.”

“It's more than that.”

You finish the rest of your snack. Plucking the skewer from Ogata’s hand, you replace it with your interlocking fingers. You feel your arm tingling again, and as the man looks down at you, you can’t help but give him a smile.

“Let's find the others. Maybe on the way, you can tell me more things you like about me.”

[annaxbree]

talk back (pt 2)

nate doe x reader

warnings: cursing, mentions of alcohol

previous part

"a few people" was their answer when i asked how big of a gathering this would be.

the triplets had just hit another milestone in their career, which called for a celebration.

and while the get-together was limited to close friends, it was still more than a few people.

and, of course, they had invited him to the celebration. why wouldn't they ? nate is their best friend, after all.

despite this fact, i was still surprised to see him walk through the door with that annoying smirk planted on his face.

he looked good, i'd never tell him that though.

his head turned in my direction, but before we could make eye contact i moved my head to face the direction nick was sitting.

"im getting a drink" i whispered, standing up from the couch. nick only nodded, already engrossed in conversation with a friend.

i let out a sigh as i made a beeline towards the table that was littered with drinks, i guess they planned on getting a little drunk tonight.

before i could even pick out what drink i wanted, i felt his breath on my neck.

his hand found its way to the small of my back while he reached around me to grab a cup.

instead of doing so, however, he craned his neck downward to look at me. his face was mere inches away from my own.

"so do you just never know what you want to drink, then, princess?" he asked, his breath tickling my face. "or did you need my help again?"

i watched his lips move while he talked, caught in a daze as i thought about the way they felt against mine.

it took me a minute to snap out of it, but when i finally did i was quick to make a comeback.

" i never asked for your help in the first place" i spoke.

"so you're just standing here looking around for no reason?"

"i got here like four seconds before you did" i deadpanned.

"yeah, it seemed like you were running away from me. you scared of something?"

"yeah, that massive forehead"

before he could say anything back, he was interrupted by the voice of nick.

"of course you two are here together" nick spoke. "the hell is that supposed to mean?" i asked.

"all i'm saying is you two have a tendency to disappear together at parties. what were you two doing in the bathroom together, anyway?"

"oh, i'd actually love to talk about this right now, but i'm pretty sure i hear chris calling me" he spoke as he backed away slowly.

before anyone could stop him, he was already gone.

"do you hear that? i think i hear madi calling me" i spoke, poking my thumb in the opposite direction.

"yeah, nice try"

"are you kidding me? nate just did the exact same thing" i pointed out.

"yeah, well nate doesn't owe me an explanation. you do"

"ok, fine. we just spent time in the bathroom...but nothing happened" i spoke.

"spent time in the bathroom doing what?"

"you know....talking"

"girl, you're not fooling anybody...especially not me"

"we kissed..."

"....for 10 minutes?"

"what, did you time it? "

"no, bitch, it was an educated guess"

"ok... so, we kissed for 10 minutes" i spoke with a shrug.

"and why are you just telling me this now?" he asked.

" 'cause i regret it, and it never should have happened in the first place"

"nick!" madi yelled from across the room, "come over here! matt and chris want pictures!"

while nick walked away from me, nate walked towards me. instead of stopping, however, he grabbed my arm and pulled me around the corner wordlessly.

he pushed me against the wall, caging me in with his arms.

"that's funny, didn't seem like you regretted it when you were moaning my name" he rasped.

"what are you talking about?" i asked.

"don't act like you didn't just tell nick you regretted it"

"how do you know i was talking about you"

"who else would you be talking about?"

"well, why would you assume you're the only guy i'm talking to?"

"am i?"

"that really doesn't concern you"

"what if i want it to?"

"what if you shut up and kiss me?"

"you know for someone who claims they don't want me, you're pretty needy"

"if you don't want to kiss me, i'll go find someone who will"

"shut up" he spoke before leaning down and closing the gap between us.

tag list: taglist: @creamoncreamoncream2 @freshloveforthefit @patscorner @sturniolosmind @sturniolosloves

[witchygagirlwrites]

How Dare You-Part 13

Jay Halstead x Reader (nicknamed Deuce/ Surname of Barlowe but no first name used)

The question: What is gonna happen between you and Jay when the mission is over?

Warnings: cursing, sparring, arguing

You were in your office, a stack of paperwork in front of you and suddenly wishing you were in the field getting shot at. You had to catch up on this part of your job sooner or later so this was the later part considering you’d been putting it off for weeks. You at least were supposed to go to the base later so your team could have time in training with the squad for the remainder of the time the last six of them were here. It was hard to think about. You’d been handed a squad of twelve plus Jay. You were now down to a squad of six, counting Jay.

The remaining members had chosen to stay on until they were no longer needed to back your team. You didn’t like that you were basically over their contracts but you did like the fact that the army couldn’t move them. You could let them go home at any time by cutting them loose. Jay was also included in that. 

You rotated your neck in a tight circle as a knock at your closed door gave you a very welcomed reprieve from the paperwork that was starting to feel like it was reproducing every time you turned your back on it.

____________________

“It’s open” you called out and the door cracked open, Jay’s head peeking around the corner “Good lord when’s the last time you caught up on reports?” you glared at him “Do not start! I’ve seen your desk before” 

He grinned and walked in further and you saw that he was carrying a tray with two coffees and a bag of food “How did you manage to get past everyone without getting rolled?” he laughed “I already gave them theirs” you nodded “Good decision, Val would’ve just came in here because she knows I would give her half of mine anyways”

He walked over to the table that was in the corner and sat the coffee and food down “Wanna take a break? Travis told me you haven’t eaten yet” you rolled your eyes “Fucking traitor. I miss when you hated each other at times” he shook his head “No, you don’t” “No, I don’t but still…it’s annoying at times you two getting along”

You stood and stretched your arms over your head, a light moan escaping you when your back popped. You hadn’t really registered the sound until you realized a light blush colored Jay’s cheeks. “Oh fuck, you heard that” he nodded “I did” and you felt your own face warm. That was indeed a little awkward, moaning in front of your ex boyfriend.

A silence spread between the two of you before he laughed “Not like it’s the first time I heard you moan. Come eat before your coffee gets cold” you barked out a shocked laugh. “JAY!” and he grinned “What? It’s true”  you shook your head and walked over to the table, pulling a chair out to sit down “What did you get anyways”

He went into the bag and held out the breakfast sandwich you normally got from the place around the corner from your office “You called Travis you sneak!” he shrugged “Maybe” you took it from him with a smile “Thank you” “You’re welcome” he replied, pulling one out for himself. When you eyed it he met your eyes “I figured you still didn’t particularly like eating alone”

He sat down across from you and slid one of the coffees to you. “At least I always know how you take your coffee right?” you laughed “That you do” 

“So, I’ve been going over final targets with a few contacts along with Nolan” you spoke after a few minutes of comfortable silence that was just the two of you eating. He raised an eyebrow “Final targets?” you nodded “Jay, I can’t keep the six of you here forever. I mean it’ll still be a few more months or better I’m sure but I’d like to give everyone some sort of time table for when this round of drug interdiction will be wrapping. They can only keep one team on it for so long before our faces will spread and we won’t be able to do the job as well. Remember what Voight always said about not getting your picture in the paper? This is worse”

“Makes sense,” he replied, pushing the rest of his sandwich away. Your eyes fell to it “Something wrong with your food?” he shook his head “Guess I’m full” “Oh, ok. Anyways..I thought in the next day or two Nolan and I will loop you, Travis and Davidson in” he nodded, “Yeah, sounds good”

“Something wrong Jay? You seem like you’re suddenly a million miles away” he shrugged, eyes finally finding their way back to your face “Just the idea of leaving” you offered him a smile, hoping he couldn’t tell how much the thought of him leaving again was ripping your heart out “I’m sure Will would be happy to see you” “Yeah” he replied and then stood up, gathering the trash from both of your breakfasts “I’ll um see you at base for training?” you nodded “Yeah, we’ll be there in a couple hours” “Ok, see you then Deuce”

You watched him walk out and felt a bit confused. Shouldn’t he be happy that this whole thing was wrapping? The rest of the squad would be happy to hear. All of you had done amazing work over the last year or better. Why was he freezing you out?  Was it because you still hadn’t found Los Guerreros del Illimani?  You sighed and stood up, pushing the chair back under the table. Might as well get a few more reports done before you had to head to base.

“What’s up Halstead?” Luke was watching him a little too closely for his liking. “Nothing man” he nodded slowly “You were all hyped when you left earlier to go to the fed office, getting to see Deuce. Now? You look like someone kicked your dog”

Jay sat down on the weight bench, setting the weight down. “She was talking about the final targets. Narrowing down the next few months” “And what is the connection to the attitude change?” Luke asked and Jay shrugged “She’s shoving me out the damn door. We haven’t even hit Los Guerreros del Illimani. I know everyone else may have one foot back home but I don’t”

“Here’s an idea man…tell me if it’s too far out there but why not talk to her?” Jay rolled his eyes “And tell her what exactly? I don’t want to leave? I want to stay in Bolivia even when the rest of you leave, to be close to her? How the hell do I say that after everything?” 

“I would say to speak clearly, maintain eye contact” Luke offered and Jay seriously considered punching him then and there and probably would have if he didn’t hear yours and Samantha’s voices drifting down the hall towards the gym. “Well if it isn’t our favorite feds?” Luke laughed and Jay glared at him “Say one word to her and I will break your jaw”

Luke made a motion like he was locking his lips “They’re sealed, coward” then walked back across the way about the time you, Val, Samantha, Marcel and Travis came walking in. 

____________________

“So, what happened earlier today?” you were walking a little ways ahead of Travis and Val next to Samantha and just behind Marcel when she questioned why Jay had left in such a hurry. “You didn’t hit him did you?” you laughed “No, that would’ve made sense at least. One minute we were talking then the next he just shut down”

She raised an eyebrow “What were you two talking about?” “Narrowing down the final targets so I could possibly make some sort of time table as to when this round of interdiction would be wrapping” “Oh” she breathed and you suddenly felt like you were on the outside of a joke. “What am I missing?” you asked and she grinned “You’re really not making that connection Deuce?”

You shrugged and she grinned “He was fine up until you talked about everything wrapping. Meaning he was fine up until you mentioned that he would be leaving Bolivia sooner or later, meaning leaving you”

“No, that isn’t it. He’s probably just upset we haven’t found Los Guerreros del Illimani or he’s apprehensive about the fact that he resigned from being a detective before coming here” you offered and she rolled her eyes “For someone so smart, you’re a dumbass when Jay is involved anymore. I know when he was first here he was a dick. I’m not blind but that man has been busting his ass to change. He’s been trying to be a better man, he’s been a better man. I think he either never fell out of love with you or he’s back in love with you or he’s fully in love with you this time”

You shook your head “No, he isn’t… he can’t be” “And why not?” she asked as Marcel opened the gym door and whistled “Come on you two” you grinned “Eager to get your ass kicked in front of the army squad?”

You laughed as Travis and Luke went blow for blow. They were sparring and you were enjoying just watching them. You stood next to Val and winced when Travis slammed Luke down onto the mat “Damn Bailey, I felt that one” 

Val laughed “I swear you bunch are insane” you winked at her “I haven’t gone my turn yet” you cut your eyes at Jay and he smiled slightly “Oh no ma’am. I am not going against you” 

You pouted slightly “You’re no fun” then looked over at Jones “What about?” he shrugged “Sure, why not?” you saw Jay raise an eyebrow at Jones and didn’t know what that was about but chose to ignore it. You whistled at Travis as him and Davidson called it “Next go is me and Jones”

He grinned “Attagirl, get your ass in here” you laughed and hopped into the mat, Jones across from you “Well come on big boy, I ain't got all day”

_________________

Jay was trying to decide whether or not he was about to commit murder. You could handle yourself. He knew that. You were perfectly capable in a fight. He stood next to Marcel, his arms crossed and could feel the muscle in his jaw clench harder every time Jones managed to land a hit on you. “Son of bitch” he muttered under his breath and Marcel chuckled “She’s got this”

“I know,” Jay replied, eyes never leaving you. You went back at Jones, blow for blow but when Jones managed to flip you, your back slamming into the mat and Jones moved like he wasn’t going to give you time to get up?  Jay spoke without thinking “Back up”

Every set of eyes in the gym flew towards Jay including yours and you looked pissed. “What the fuck?” you growled as you caught Jones behind the knee and when he went down, used your legs to flip him into a pin. You rolled to push yourself up then walked over to Jay “We need to talk”

_______________

You waved a hand at Marcel “Figure out who to go against” then led Jay across the gym, hoping everyone would give the two of you a minute. You spun to face him once you were certain you were far enough away that everyone couldn’t overhear “What was that Jay? You knew Jones wouldn’t actually hurt me”

“I know but..” he tried but you cut him off “No but, you do not undermine me as an agent or simply as a woman like that. Do you think anyone we go after would back off in a situation like that?”

He dropped his gaze so you took a step closer “Jay?” he raised his eyes to you “No, they wouldn’t” “No, they wouldn’t. I train with men because I go against men. Same reason Sam trains against men. Now, what is going on with you Jay? You walked out of my office this morning and now this? We were doing good or I thought we were anyways”

“I’m sorry sweetheart” you nodded slowly, ignoring what he’d just called you  “Is it because you know I have the scars that aren’t quite rough yet?” he shook his head “No, it’s just…you know what? Maybe it is that” 

“I don’t believe you or believe that” you spoke low. You lifted one of your hands and had to stop yourself halfway before you put it on his chest. He stared at your hand as you dropped it. “I miss you” he spoke so low you barely caught it. “What?” you asked and he shrugged “I miss you, that’s what was wrong this morning. What’s wrong now. I’m here but I’m apparently supposed to be halfway out of the door”

“Jay..” he took a step closer, and you shook your head “Our entire team is ten feet away, now isn’t the time for us to have a conversation that resembles anything near the direction this one is going in” 

He nodded slowly “Is that you telling me you don’t want to have that conversation at all?” he was giving you an out, an option to bow out with an audience where it didn’t get weird. “Jay I don’t want to break my own heart again” you admitted and he sighed, looking across the gym where, despite the fact that Marcel and Hernandez was sparring, it was obvious damn near everyone was paying attention to the two of you. Couldn’t really blame them. Like action soap opera.

“I’d rather let Travis kill me here and now and bury me in a shallow grave than ever hurt you again” he whispered, eyes boring into yours. You felt your heart flip. “Jay, we can’t afford to be distracted” he nodded “Ok, but know anything you wanted from me? I’d give to you here and now”

“I’m not saying we won’t have that conversation, I’m just saying it won’t be today Jay” you looked up at him and the smile he gave you made your face flush with warmth “I’ll be here,any time you want to talk” 

“Ok, so can I go spar now?” you asked and he grinned “Yeah” you laughed “Wanna spar me?” he let his eyes trail over you and god help you could practically feel his touch despite everything “I don’t think that’s a good idea” Your eyebrows shot up “Why?” “Do you think it’s a good idea for either of us to pin the other?” he asked and that pulled a shocked laugh out of you, mainly from the mental image of Jay’s body pressing into yours. The memory caused quite a few different physical reactions. He grinned when you shrugged  “Good point”

The two of you walked back over and Val cut her eyes at you “We good?” you nodded “Five by five. Let’s get it”

Jay watched as you walked into the conference room. You had texted him to let him know you and Travis were the only ones coming to the base so that the two of you along with him and Davidson could meet with Nolan.

You smiled slightly when you realized his attention was on you. Nolan cut his eyes up as you walked into the room “Barlowe, you wanna take the reins and explain to your boys what you’ve decided?” you laughed “I don’t know how they feel about getting called my boys”

“I am your boy” Travis shrugged. “I’m cool with it” Davidson agreed and Jay grinned “Anything you call me I’ll answer to” you shook your head “In that case, let's get down to it”

_________________________

All in all it would take another couple months at minimum. Nolan had long since excused himself. You were fairly certain you could tell that asshole to sign off on damn near anything and he would at this point. “So, you three up for it?” you asked and they all nodded “We’ve come this far. Let’s take it across the finish line” Davidson teased with a wink.

“You know I’m following you come hell or high water” Travis told you and you smiled “Oh I know that” you looked at Jay and he nodded “You’ve got me however long you want me” that felt like it had more than one meaning to his words. Travis caught your eye and raised an eyebrow before patting Davidson on the shoulder “Come on man, lets go talk to Hernandez about him and Red and what we’ll be needing them to do”

“Let him know Red has a big role in these last few” you told Travis who winked at you “I got you” as he led Luke out of the room. 

______________________

Once it was just the two of you, you turned to face Jay and waved a hand towards the door “One thing I’ve noticed you and Travis have in common is that you’re both about as subtle as a brick to the face at times”

He shrugged, crossing his arms over his chest “Sorry?” you nodded “What was that about me having you as long as I want you?” he shrugged again “Just saying”

You sighed and walked over to the table, sitting on the edge of it and moving back far enough to let your feet dangle slightly. Jay watched you like he wanted to move closer but remained rooted to the spot “We need to talk before any more missions. I don’t need you distracted going into the field because if something happens to you because of me? Jay I can’t face Will knowing that”

“Baby..shit Deuce sorry” he corrected himself as soon as he called you baby but just for that second your heart leapt into your throat. You motioned for him to walk closer so he did, stopping just shy of the point of standing between your legs. You looked up at him “Talk to me, about whatever it was you needed to say in the gym the other day. Get it out and in the air now while we’re in a safe environment so we can tackle it”

He scrubbed a hand down his face and laughed lightly “When did you get to be so level headed?” you shrugged “While I was in the hospital I had to meet with a shrink daily as part of my therapy to be released once I met the physical side of discharge standards”

“Ok...Deuce…I um..” he stammered and you reached out to grab his hand and his eyes widened at the contact. You pulled him a little closer and he nearly stumbled which caused you to laugh “Jesus christ, when did Jay Halstead get to the point of being nervous around a woman?”

He bought his other hand up and almost touched the side of your face but froze, looking to you for permission. You gave the smallest of nods so he gently cupped the side of your face “Apparently you have that power over me” you laughed “Well I’m just me Jay…talk”

You could feel his thumb tracing circles onto your cheek as he held your face but if it calmed him enough he could get whatever it was he needed to get out you’d let him. “I don’t want to leave Bolivia. I want to stay here” you knew he felt when you swallowed hard “I don’t understand? You’re telling me you’re becoming a lifer this go round in the army?”

He shook his head “I don’t want to leave you” “Jay..” you started but he cut you off “Please..let me get this out then you can cuss me, hit me..yell..whatever”

“Ok” you relented and he stepped closer, resting his hand next to your hip on the table “I never loved you like I should have before. I don’t know why, I don’t have a good explanation for it because there isn’t a good enough reason. I let you walk away without a fight. I missed you so damn much after that, I shouldn’t have tried to move on..that was wrong on so many levels..lying to you? That was wrong and the fact that I just I wanted you so damn bad doesn’t justify that… then the way I treated you when I first got here? There’s nothing I can do to make up for it. I feel like I only ever really knew half of you and I loved that half but now? The time I’ve been here, been at your side and seen this part of you? I’ve gotten to fall in love with all of you. I don’t deserve another chance with you but I love you, I’m in love with you…the thought of leaving you again? Going back to Chicago and leaving you here? I can’t face that without at least trying. I’ll do whatever I have to do to stay, to prove myself to you if it’s the last thing I do if you’ll have me”

Jay stood there, one hand holding your face, the other resting next to your hip after spilling his heart out. Your wide eyes hadn’t moved from his face and he could feel your pulse racing against his pinkie that had slipped down your jaw. Say something he silently begged, say anything, yell at me. Cuss me out…come on baby don’t shut down.

He spoke your name softly, barely above a whisper. He didn’t want to spook you. He had expected so many things, so many reactions… he had not expected for you to nod once, almost as if it was more to yourself than to him before you muttered “Fuck it” and your hand moved up to the front of his shirt, pulling him down to you.

You pulled Jay down to you, one hand going to his chest and the other around the back of his neck. You let your lips gently brush against his, just barely a tease, testing the waters after so much had happened. You could feel a slight tremor in his shoulders and you laughed against his lips. You pulled back from his lips and looked up at him “Are you ok?” he nodded “Yeah, I’m perfect” and pulled you back to him, this time the kiss wasn’t tentative. You let your lips crash against his, a light whine leaving you when you felt his tongue flick out asking for access and you parted your lips to allow it.

When he rolled his tongue into your mouth you pulled him closer which put him stepping directly between your legs. You felt his hand that had been resting on the table going to your hip, tugging you towards the end of the table. You gasped lightly but knew he wouldn’t let you fall off. When the need for air overwhelmed the need for each other you pulled him down and turned his head to the side so your lips could tease across his jaw and down his neck, working at the skin you knew so well even now. 

He shifted closer and you grinned when he let out a light sound that was damn near a whimper when you nipped at his pulse point. The sound of boots approaching the door made you jump apart, a laugh escaping you when you saw him have to adjust the front of his pants.

You leapt off the table, adjusting your clothes, both of you putting some distance between each other before Travis and Davidson stepped back in. Travis looked between you and Jay, a smirk slipping onto his face “Um, you good to go Deuce or you need a few more minutes here at the base to plan?”

You glared at him “No, I’m good Bailey” he was practically gnawing on his bottom lip to not laugh. You nodded to Davidson “See you later Luke” then looked back at Jay “Bye Jay” “Um.. bye Deuce” he stammered slightly and you saw a light blush just barely grace his cheeks which caused your own face to warm. Jesus Travis was going to call you out.

___________________

“You kissed him, didn’t you?” Travis asked the moment the two of you were back in the suv headed to the office. You opened your mouth then clamped it shut and shrugged. He busted out laughing “That poor man was stammering and stumbling! Christ woman! I’m not getting into your personal life but give him recoup time if you plan to do anything else!” “TRAVIS BAILEY!” you scolded which only made him laugh harder. 

Part 14

@elvenpirate51

@allisonargent144

@nevaehstreater18

@alterna123

@leavemealoneplsandthx

[violet-fluff]

💙 Levi x Injured! Reader

Stay Awake

You were originally part of Hanji’s squad, but with your excellent 3D maneuvering skills, Erwin had you switched over to Levi’s squad as they need only the best on the front lines.

You and Levi were already good friends as you both trained with each other during your youth time in the scouts. Now that you are with him twenty-four seven on his squad though, the both of you have become inseparable.

“You two might as well just hook up.” Oluo sneered as he drinks from his water pouch.

Petra squeezes the bottom of the pouch, causing water to rapidly spurt into Oluo’s mouth, making him choke. “Stop being stupid, and don’t talk dirty about your Captain and squad mates.”

You laugh but continue to pour hot water into two tea cups. Before bed, you and Levi liked to chat over tea. “Thanks, Petra. And for your information Oluo, Levi and I are just great friends. We’ve known each other since you were still a child most likely.”

“How romantic. The perfect beginning to a beautiful love story.” Gunther chimes in jokingly causing Eld to cover his grin.

You roll your eyes and finish fixing up your tea tray. “Well I’m headed out for the night. Goodnight everyone.”

“Don’t forget to add that love potion in his tea.” Gunther shouts, causing Petra to yell at him and the rest of your snickering squad.

“These guys are too much.” You whisper to yourself, half annoyed and half tender as you still love these bozos to death.

Making it to Levi’s office, you notice his door cracked open. A small quirk Levi does so you can easily open the door with your foot while holding the teas.

You swivel the door open with your foot and smile as Levi looks up at you from his desk. “It’s about time you got here.”

“Sorry,” You say and place the tray down on his desk, “I got caught up with Oluo and the other two being idiots again. Petra helped me cut it short.”

“Hm,” Levi grunts and starts to fix his tea, “What were they being stupid about?”

You blush and look down to fix your own. “Nothing. Just stupid guy talk I guess.”

Levi watches your face go red from embarrassment. “If they said anything stupid to you I’ll beat their asses.”

You laugh softly. “Don’t worry about it. Anyway, are you ready for tomorrow? You should get some sleep tonight.”

Levi huffs and looks down at his blue print. “We have the perfect formation down. Everything should go fine if everyone sticks to it.”

“And by everyone, you mean Erwin?” You ask while eyeing him from the rim of the tea cup as you take a sip.

“That bastard better not change anything last minute out on the field this time. He nearly got Hanji’s squad killed.” Levi grimaces on the memory.

“I’m sure with the earful he heard from both you and Hanji, he won’t do it again.”

Levi clicks his tongue. “I hope so. Is your 3D gear back from the shop yet? I can get you a new one.”

You wave him off as you lean back in the chair. “No it’s ok. Keep the new ones brand new. I’m sure mine will be done by tomorrow. I don’t think it needs that much fixing anyway.”

“It doesn’t need that much fixing?” Levi asks with a raised brow. “Your grapple wouldn’t shoot out a few times. It nearly caused you to fall.”

Levi was always protective over you. When you opted to get your gear fixed instead of replaced, he didn’t like the idea very much.

“The trigger is just faulty, not completely broken. It probably just needs to be rewired.”

He clicks his tongue. “You’re testing that shit out once you get it back. I don’t care if everyone has to wait.”

You smile but agree to ease his mind.

——

The next morning everyone is suiting up and gathering their horses when a cadet comes and brings you your gear.

“Y/N, right? The technician had to take another job, so he told me to bring you your fixed gear.” They say while handing you the bulking metal.

“Oh! Perfect!” You thank the cadet and strap the gear to your harness, but freeze when you hear someone clear their throat behind you.

You turn around to see Levi with his arms crossed and you roll your eyes. “Yes, I know the drill…”

The two of you walk towards a tree line and you position yourself to a tree farther away. Turning on the gas cans, you pull the trigger and your grapple shoots out to latch on the tree, pulling you to it. “It works!” You shout to Levi with a thumbs up.

He stares at you, still skeptical as his gut doesn’t have the best feeling, but if he saw with his own eyes your gear working correctly then there should be nothing to worry about.

—-

The mission starts to finally come to an end after a grueling six hours. You all need to clear the designated areas outside of the walls as the government wanted to expand the outer notch of Wall Maria.

In the distance, you see an abnormal titan.

“Ahh, the last titan of the day.” Oluo yawns.

You shoot a red flare in the air, signaling to Hanji’s squad a mile behind you that there is an abnormal ahead.

“Y/N and I will handle this one. The rest of you lay behind.” Levi orders as you two snap at your horses to run faster.

“I’ll get its attention as you cut the nape?”

Levi nods. “Sounds like a plan.”

You stand on your horse and shoot your 3D gear into a nearby tree and fly past the abnormal. It quickly swings its arm at you, but you wrap around the tree and dodge it’s first attempt.

“Wow it’s fast.” You say to yourself and you hover in the air for a second.

It swings at you a second time so you quickly push on your trigger to shoot out another grapple, but the trigger stalls.

You anxiously push on the trigger more as you start falling, and your eyes widen as you see a giant arm in your vision. You scream when you feel it impact with your body and you go flying into a tree before falling and hitting the ground.

You were conscious enough to feel one, maybe more, of your limbs twist and the pressure of yourself hitting the ground making your ears ring before seeing black.

“Oh my god! Y/N!!”

“Petra! Don’t touch her!”

You are able to faintly hear your friends next to you, causing you to muster up enough strength to barely open one eye and fuzzily watch as they loom over you.

Petra has tears coming out of her eyes as Oluo holds her back.

“Captain! Don’t!” You hear Eld yell.

Suddenly, you feel the upper half of your body being lifted and your arms falling back behind you as you don’t have the strength to move them. Someone grabs your face and turns your head towards them.

It’s Levi.

You can barely make out his face.

“God-dammit! Look at me!” He says through gritted teeth, shaking your face with his hand. “Say something!”

Hanji’s squad catches up and she jumps off her horse before it even stops. “Hey!? What happened?!”

Levi is still holding your body tightly against him and trying to shake you awake. “She won’t get up!”

Hanji notices Levi is in a great state of distress, and notices the back of your head wet with blood.

She slowly kneels down next to Levi and squeezes his shoulder. “Levi, let’s put her down for a second, ok? I’ll…I’ll help her.”

Levi looks down at your disheveled face but nods and slowly lowers you back to the ground.

All of your senses are blurry and fuzzy, but you feel someone open your eye more and then force the other one to open for a split second before letting it close again.

“Her pupils are different sizes. I’m sure she just has a concussion. A bad one, but something she can heal from.”

Hanji has Moblit wrap your head in a bandage while she examines the rest of your body. “She has a broken arm and a sprained ankle. I’m not sure if her ribs are fractured. That’s something I’ll have to check back at base.”

Levi was seething with rage. “That idiot technician was supposed to fix her gear. I want him fucking dead.”

“Let’s not get too hasty right now, Levi. Let’s make sure Y/N is taken care of first.” Hanji says as she tries to calm him down.

You senses start to come back a little more as you start waking up from your black out and you hear Levi yelling.

“L-Lev…” You try to mutter out his name.

Levi quickly hovers back over you. “Y/N? Can you look at me?”

You weakly open your other eye slowly and see Levi in double vision.

“That’s good. I need you to stay awake.” He orders you.

“Hurt…” You squeak out.

Levi sighs. “I know, but we’re taking you home, ok?”

While Hanji was checking you over earlier, Gunther shot a black flare signaling a formation was down. This causes an emergency team to come assess the situation and they bring along a wagon of supplies.

They would use this wagon to haul you back to base as a horse would be too bumpy of a ride.

Levi sits in the wagon, holding you across his lap and talks with you to try to keep you awake.

“Hanji said you’re not allowed to sleep with a concussion, brat, so stay awake for me.” He orders as he moves hair out of your face.

“What…happen?” You try to ask but the more you start waking up, the more dizzy your head feels.

“Don’t worry about that right now.”

All you wanted to do was take a long nap. You start to close your eyes and drift off when you were snapped back as Levi shook your cheek a bit.

“Hey, I said stay awake. Why don’t you tell me what you use for my tea. You never told me.” He asks to try to keep you busy.

“The tea…I put lavender…” You tell him.

He furrows his brows. “Just lavender? Is that a secret ingredient?”

You manage to give a tiny smile. “Yes.”

—-

A few days pass by and you are now fully awake but still admitted in the medical clinic on base.

“When can I leave?” You huff at Levi.

“When the doctor says you can.” He scolds.

The doctor said you had quite the concussion and wants to monitor you for a few days. Along with the concussion, you went through the pain of them trying to realign your broken leg and wrap your sprained ankle. Luckily your ribs weren’t fractured but you did develop deep bruising all over your body.

“Don’t make a fuss about leaving. You’ll be bed ridden in your room anyway.” Levi says.

You roll your eyes. “But I’d rather be bed ridden in the comfort of my room than in the medical clinic.” You grab his hand. “Levi…you don’t need to stress anymore. I’m fine.”

He scoffs. “How can I not stress when some idiot technician didn’t do his job. He almost got you killed. How can I even trust the others?”

The technician that was supposed to fix your gear forgot to, and instead of saying so, he lied and said the gear was fixed. In his head, corps members going outside the walls were as good as dead anyway.

He was promptly fired…after getting a major ass whooping from Levi.

You frown as well as scrunch your eyebrows in anger. “Kiss me.”

Levi’s eyes widened as he stared at you in silence. “What did you say?”

You grunt and hold your arm as you sit up more. “I almost died without telling my feelings for you. Since I’m still alive, I want to tell you them. But first, I want you to kiss me.”

Levi stared at you longer, contemplating what to do in his head, before he leans forward and puts his lips against yours. You sigh contently against his lips as you grab a hold of the front of his shirt, and he grabs the back of your neck to deepen the kiss.

After a few moments, you feel Levi’s lips quiver and a wetness on his cheek.

Levi pulls away and leans his forehead against yours. “I thought you were going to die.” He chokes out, tears falling down his cheeks.

You wipe away his tears and hold his face. “Well I didn’t. I’m here with you and I’ll always stay by you. I live for you.”

Levi smiles and kisses you again. “I live for you too.”

[dolliestfairy]

Dolliest 🎀

PART 2 Bo sinclair, Lester sinclair, Billy loomis & Bubba sawyer with Chubby!fem!reader who dress like a Doll.

ᜊ Request : You've probably already answered this but...would you be willing to do a sequel to Dolliest with Billy Lenz, Bo Sinclair, Lester Sinclair, Billy Loomis and Bubba Sawyer?

ᜊ A/N : sorry for not making the billy lenz part, i'm not really that bond with him and i'm scared i will gave you something that is far from his personality so i just done the rest :)

ᜊ Warnings : Pet names (princess, doll, ect), thinking of murdering someone & implied wanting to gouge someones eyes out, implied slit someones throat, killing, and maybe some misspelled words. this is a Poc friendly reader.

gifs aren't mine.

ཐིiཋྀ Bo Sinclair

• Omg look at you!.

• thinks you annoying at first, but as he knows you further he start to fall in love quick.

• although he would never admit it anyway.

• he really love how when you step into the room, the whole people would stare at you with such admiration, makes them think that they can have you when you're completely his.

• but if someone talks down or look down about you, you'd best believe they will be the next person who will exist in the News because of something terrible thing that has happen to them.

• what? do you think bo made the terrible things happen to them? of course ye- of course not.. why would you think like that? he only does that because he loves you..

• calls you "princess" or "babydoll".

• depends on his mood. if he's feeling more like a bad mood, he sometimes called you "princess" in a irritated tone.

• but we know this man has some major anger issues or some shit so yeah, not so surprised isnt?

• one of the things about this man is that, if you have a stretch marks, he loves to see you in a clothes who will show & compliment your stretch marks. he thinks you look really adorable, espesially if its pink!

• if you dont have stretchmarks, but if you do have a navel piercing, he also love to see your piercing gets it shows & compliments.

• but if you dont have both? its ok honey, this man will still love you regardless. (but he would rather die than admitting this)

ཐིiཋྀ Lester sinclair

• A goddess. thats what he thinks of you.

• man he fucking loves you & literally worship you so much sometimes you caught him staring at you for hours nonstop, had to slap or bump him or not he would for sure not stop staring you.

• calls you "honey" or "my goddess"

• really love how the pinks really compliment your features, and your bellies!!

• he fucking adores the stretch marks that traced over it. eveytime sometimes he likes to track his finger into it while showering you with compliments.

• and another thing about this man is that he would die to have cuddles with you.

• he really loev cuddles. after he had done his work, he goes straight to you to ask cuddles.

• if someone talks bad about you, he would gave them the nastiest death stare you'd ever imagine.

• he doesnt care what your skin is, pale, beige, brown, dark, whatever, you still beautiful, you're his chubby goddess, and he would -- of course, worship you to death.

ཐིiཋྀ Billy loomis

• really proud, no shame.

• just like bo, this guy loves when people think they can have you, when little did they know -- you're already off the market.

• he would rather die than admitting this, but he really love cuddling with you. your soft plush is literally much better than any pillow he ever bought.

• thats why he always lay his head on your belly. he really comfy there, dont push his head on the side or he will be grumpy.

• calls you "baby" or "doll"

• really love seeing you compliments yourself in your outfit omg! he fucking adores it, would die if that means he can see you compliment yourself again.

• he would not hold back to slit anyones throat who dare to talk down on you.

• no need to talk down actually, a nasty stare is enough to make him want to gouge out their eyes

• need Have to hold back this guy intentions before he really does gonna kill them all.

• and after he killed those shit? he goes back to you -- clinging over you, and cuddling you to death will not minding any fucks about those fuckfaces that he killed.

ཐིiཋྀ Bubba saywer

• this big boi..

• everytime you walk in on room he always cheered up, like everytime.

• no matter if he is sad, or angry or just having a bad mood.. if he sees you walking into the room he will be back to his cheered self.

• love the pinks omg! those pink nails and those vanilla strawberry scent perfume of yours..

• you're a very intoxicating woman to this guy, and he loove every single of it.

• and we all know his family are literally tease you both to death lmfao..

• they always called you both "love birds" and everytime one of his family sees you or bubba alone with no each other of you companying, they will start to annoy you with questions like

"where are the love of your life?"

"where are your birds-mate?"

but they do it all because they are just really curious lol and that family is actually -- hoping that you can stay together forever with him. running around in the house with your pink personality & outfit..

• with how your vanilla strawberry perfume scent filled the room..

•and with how your love to bubba, and bubba's love to you is filled in to the house.

[moonlightkitties]

You are your fathers daughter - Red Dead Redemption Reader Insert - (Part Six)

Plot: Arthur, Charles, and Javier bring Sean back where you and him spend some time together.

Word Count: 1k+

Warnings: Smut, unprotected p n v sex, drunk/tipsy sex, fingering, oral (f receiving), first time.

A/N: This is my first smut so idk really know if it's good or not but I enjoyed writing it.

If you want to read the previous parts of "You're your father's daughter", you can find them here

Today was the day. The day that Arthur, Javier, and Charles would go back to Blackwater to save Sean. Trelawny had a good lead on where he was so Arthur was going to meet up with him and the others.

"You sure I can't come?" You ask, handing Arthur one of his guns. He huffed "You can" he paused smirking at your excited grin "But you're not goin to, I ain't risking your life for some crush." You glare at him, your cheeks a light pink "That doesn't even make sense" you huff, Arthur chuckled and ruffled your head "Can you at least watch over camp while I'm gone?" he asked. You nodded and watched him ride out of camp.

The day went on as normal; you did chores, chores and more chores. It was exhausting and the day still wasn't over. Sitting next to Tilly and Mary-Beth as they both read, the three of you started talking about the type of guy you would like to marry.

"I want someone who's sweet and shy but strong when they need to be" Mary-Beth said, playing with her hair. "What about you?" Tilly asked you. You shrug "I don't know...I'm not really the marriage material." John chuckled from a few feet away "That's for sure" he said, Mary-Beth chucked a stone at his head, making him yelp and move away.

"Aw, come on, there's gotta be some type of guy you like" Mary-Beth said, trying to cox you to tell them. You sighed "I want a guy that's funny and sociable. A guy that can make conversations with anyone." Mary-Beth giggled "It sounds like you're describing Sean." Your face goes pink "Sean? No, he's like an annoying brother." Tilly smiles "Really? You're blushing an awful lot." You groaned "Maybe I like him a little...but doesn't Karen like him too?" Tilly shrugged "I think she's over him."

Karen joined the three of you, a bottle in her hand, which wasn't really surprising "Who's over who?" she asks, tilting the bottle upward to drink.

"You being over Sean" Mary-Beth told her, Karen snorted "Please, I've been over him. Why you askin? Someone else like him?"

"(y/n), does." You rolled your eyes, thanks for that Mary-Beth. Karen chuckled "Well, good luck with him (y/n), he's a handful." Your face flushed an even darker red and you looked away. How embarrassing.

"You really like him, don't you?" Mary-Beth asked and you nodded "But you like that Kieran boy too?" You look at her "I mean, he's cute yeah, and we've been fishing together but that's about it, why? Do you like him?" Now it was Mary-Beth's turn to get all flustered "A little, but he's an O'Driscoll." You let out a laugh "He's not an O'Driscoll, he save mine and Arthur's life." Mary-Beth looked behind your shoulder "Speaking of Arthur, is that him?" you turned around and she was right, it was Arthur. You looked around "Then where's Sean and the others?" You asked, anxiety bubbling in your chest.

The first thing you heard was Sean's voice, he was riding with Javier on the back of Boaz, you could tell Javier was getting annoyed at the Irishman's ramblings. Sean dismounted and almost immediately he was bombarded by questions and welcomes. He took in all the welcomes and praises and before the night fell a party already started.

You took it all in, everyone was drinking, Dutch's music was playing as he and Molly danced and now you just wanted to see if there was anyway you could get to Sean without being interrupted. Sean was already downing his third drink by the time you caught up with him "There's my girl" he slurred, pulling you into his lap, you let out a gasp "Sean?" you ask, his hands finding your waist. He chuckled and started kissing your neck, his facial hair feeling scratchy on your skin.

"We can't" you whimper, feeling like putty in his grasp "You're drunk, you probably don't even know who I am." Sean chuckled, practically purring into your neck "Of course I know who you are love." You narrowed your eyes at him "Oh really? Then what's my name?" Sean scoffed "Geez, enough with the questions (y/n), you want me to fuck ya or not?" Heat started to form at his words and you rubbed your thighs together. Yes, you really did, but he was drunk and probably speaking out of his mind.

"I do" you whimper "But you're drunk, it's not right, you're not thinking clearly." Sean scoffed "I'm thinking as clear as ever love, come on" he started nipping and sucking at your neck, most likely leaving marks. Almost everyone was drunk, so no one was bound to see the two of you but still.

"In a little bit" you told him "I haven't had a drink yet." Sean barked out a laugh "You, little Miss Van der Linde, drink?"

"Not usually" you tell him, getting up off his lap, choosing to ignore his raging boner that was poking through his jeans. He grumbled from the loss of contact but got up to follow you to the crate that held the liquor. You picked a bottle up, even though you looked confident, you didn't feel it. You've never drank in your entire life, you didn't see the appeal. Sean smirked at your hesitance "Go on then lass, drink up." You rolled your eyes but opened the bottle up and took your first sip. Wow. It did not taste good at all, but when you swallowed it, the burning in your throat felt strangely good.

You had no idea how many drinks you had, but as Sean dragged you into some random tent you knew you had too many. He pulled you into a sloppy kiss, unbuttoning your pants and pulling them down, your underwear soon followed. "We have ta be quick, love" he said, pulling his own pants and underwear down. You whined and started grinding on his cock, but stopped forgetting something, your face turned red, either from the whiskey or the embarrassment.

"I'm a virgin" you told him, holding onto him, burrowing your head into his neck. He stopped his movements "A virgin?" he asked and you nodded "Y-yeah, but I still want to, please take me Sean." He growled and set you down on the bedspread "I'll be gentle" he promised. Who knew your first time was going to be a quickie and you tipsy?

He opened your legs and kissed down your thighs, once he got to your already aching and wet pussy, he kissed your clit and shoved two fingers inside. You let out a loud moan, which you immediately covered with your mouth. Sean tore yours hands away from your mouth "Nuh uh, lass, I wanna hear ya." He went faster, his tongue sucking on your clit, making you squirm and hold onto his orange locks, pushing his head in more. You felt something happen, you arched your back and let out a cry of pleasure as you came. Your legs shook and your chest heaved as you tried to catch your breath "That was" you gasped "Amazing?" Sean asked, giving a kiss to your clit.

You nodded "Yeah, it was." Sean smiled "Ah, but we're not done yet, love." Oh, yeah, you forgot. "Ya ready?" he asked, positioning his cock at your entrance, he pushed in, you arched your back, letting out a small whimper of pain. Sean shushed you and when you gave him the "Ok" to keep going, he pulled out and slammed deep into you. You gasped in pleasure, he thrusted into you, hard and fast. The familiar feeling of your orgasm came back "I-I'm coming!" you moan out, holding onto Sean as thrusted "So am I love" he moaned, his moans were gorgeous, and you hoped this wasn't just a one time thing.

You came, hard, your pussy clenched onto his cock he gave one last thrust as he came deep inside of you. You didn't care, there would be time to scold him later. You breathed, deep and heavy as he pulled out.

"I need a drink" you groaned as Sean helped you back into your clothes. He laughed and kissed your forehead "Come on then" he said, pulling his own pants up and helping you up.

You followed him out of the tent, not knowing that the tent you used to loose your virginity was Johns.

Whoops.

[childofthegarden]

A Love Written in the Stars Prologue

a/n: Hello all! This is the Prologue for A Love Written in the Stars❤️

Pairings: JoshxReader

Word count: 10k

Warnings: none!❤️

The first time you met Josh, it was pure chaos wrapped in serendipity. You were late for work, weaving through the crowded city streets, when fate made its move. One wrong step, one hurried turn, and suddenly your coffee was cascading through the air, landing squarely on the shirt of a stranger—a stranger with wild curls, an apologetic grin, and eyes that seemed to laugh at the world. “Oh my God, I’m so sorry!” you blurted out, panic flashing across your face as you scrambled to grab napkins from your bag. He looked down at the stain, then back at you, lips twitching into a crooked smile. “Hey, it’s just coffee. Could’ve been worse—at least it’s not hot sauce.” You let out a nervous laugh, still dabbing at the stain. “I really didn’t mean to—”

“Hey,” he interrupted gently, holding up a hand. “Seriously, it’s fine. I think I owe the shirt a break anyway—it’s seen better days.” He chuckled, and the sound was warm, like sunlight cutting through a cloudy morning. You half expected him to be annoyed, but instead, he smiled—a warm, crooked smile that made the world feel softer around the edges. “Let me at least buy you a new coffee,” he offered, eyes glinting with something playful. “No, I should be the one—” He shook his head, cutting you off again. “Nope. My shirt’s a lost cause, but your coffee isn’t. Come on, I know a place. Best lattes in the city, I promise.” Somehow, you found yourself seated in a tiny, tucked-away café, talking to this magnetic soul who spoke in stories and hummed under his breath.

“So, you’re a professional coffee spiller?” he teased as you sipped your drink, a hint of mischief in his tone. You groaned. “It’s actually a hobby of mine. Just, you know, marking people I might want to know better.” He laughed, eyes crinkling at the corners. “Well, I’d say you’ve got great taste in victims.” What you didn’t know then was that this fleeting moment—the chance encounter with a stranger who looked at you like he already knew you—would be the beginning of everything. That morning, you were just two people caught up in the rush of life, but there was something different about him. A spark. An electricity in the air that made you wonder if perhaps the universe had carefully orchestrated that spilled coffee just to bring you to him.

You walked away that day feeling oddly light, like a piece of yourself had been shaken awake. You didn’t exchange numbers, didn’t make plans to meet again. But you couldn’t forget the way he looked at you—the way he said your name as if he was tasting something sweet. A week passed, and just when you convinced yourself that it was just a random, insignificant moment, you saw him again. Same café. Same table. This time, he was strumming a guitar, lost in a melody that seemed to float out the open windows. When he looked up and saw you, his eyes lit up like he’d been waiting all along. “Hey, it’s my favorite coffee criminal,” he greeted, setting the guitar aside. You grinned. “Still wearing coffee-proof shirts, I see.” He patted his chest. “I came prepared. Figured I might run into trouble again.”

From that point on, everything was different. Josh didn’t just walk into your life—he danced, twirled, and spun his way through it, pulling you along on spontaneous road trips, midnight adventures, and quiet nights under the stars. He made you laugh harder than you’d ever laughed, made you feel more seen than you thought possible.

Loving Josh wasn’t a choice—it was an inevitability, like gravity or the pull of the tide. It was poetry wrapped in chaos, a love story that didn’t fit neatly into chapters but spilled out like music from an open window. You didn’t know it then, but that spilled coffee was the first line of your story. A story of two souls that collided and chose to stay tangled together, no matter how unpredictable life became. Because in a world full of uncertainties, one thing remained constant: you and Josh were always meant to find each other, in every life, under every sky, and through every song. And so it began—an imperfect, beautiful, endless love story that was never just a moment but a lifetime in the making. 

The rhythm of your life shifted after that night. You started spending more time with Josh—not because you planned it, but because it just happened. Texts turned into late-night phone calls, and quick coffee breaks stretched into entire afternoons spent wandering the city. One Saturday, he showed up at your door, grinning like a kid who’d just gotten away with something. “What’s with the look?” you asked, raising an eyebrow. He held up a paper bag triumphantly. “Picnic. You, me, and the worst sandwiches in the world. You in?” You couldn’t help but laugh. “How can you already know they’re terrible?” “I made them. So, you know... probability’s not in our favor.” You rolled your eyes but grabbed your jacket anyway. “Lead the way, chef.” The park was alive with families, joggers, and artists sketching the spring blossoms. You found a quiet spot under a sprawling oak tree, spreading out the mismatched blankets Josh had crammed into his backpack.

As you bit into your sandwich—a questionable combination of peanut butter, pickles, and something that tasted suspiciously like jam—you tried not to make a face. Josh caught your reaction and laughed. “Yeah, okay, maybe I was aiming for ‘unique’ and hit ‘horrifying’ instead.” “Bold choice,” you said, trying to chew without wincing. “You really committed.” He picked a piece of bread apart thoughtfully. “That’s kind of my thing. I don’t half-ass much. Even terrible sandwiches.” You leaned back on your elbows, watching him squint up at the sky. “You’re kind of weird, you know that?” He turned his head to look at you, eyebrows raised. “You like it, though.” He teased. “Maybe,” you admitted, nudging his foot with yours.

For a while, you just sat in comfortable silence, the city’s noise blending with the soft rustle of leaves. Josh started to hum, low and unassuming, and it melted into the atmosphere around you. “Sing for me?” you asked before you could second-guess it. He hesitated, but then he nodded, pulling his guitar from its case. After a few experimental strums, he began to play, his voice soft and rough around the edges. The song wasn’t anything you recognized—just a melody that seemed to unfold on the spot, improvised and real.

His voice wrapped around the words like he was singing them just for you: “I didn’t know I was looking Until I found you by mistake Coffee stains on a stranger’s shirt And a smile I couldn’t shake…”

You felt your chest tighten, the sincerity in his voice like a gentle ache. When he finished, he looked up, cheeks a little flushed. “Made that up on the spot,” he confessed. “Not great, but—” You cut him off. “No, It’s perfect,” you whispered. His eyes softened, and he set the guitar aside, leaning back beside you. “I meant it, you know. Meeting you—it was like something finally made sense.” You turned your head to find his gaze fixed on you, unguarded and open. “I didn’t think you were real at first,” you admitted. “People aren’t usually like you.” He smirked. “What, charmingly chaotic?” You laughed. “Something like that. But also... I don’t know. You make me feel like it’s okay to just... be.” He reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair from your face. “You don’t have to try so hard around me. Just be you. That’s the best part…my favorite part.”

Your breath caught as his fingers lingered, tracing your cheekbone. “I’m usually pretty good at keeping my guard up,” you whispered. “Yeah, I noticed,” he murmured, his thumb grazing your jawline. “But I kind of like seeing you like this—unguarded. Real.” The space between you felt electric, like the air itself was holding its breath. You didn’t realize you’d moved closer until his forehead was pressed to yours, his hand cupping your face. “You’re trouble,” you whispered, your lips just a breath away from his. He grinned, that wild, reckless grin you were starting to love. “Yeah, but the good kind, right?” Before you could respond, he closed the gap, his lips soft and warm against yours. The kiss was slow, hesitant at first, like he was giving you a chance to pull away. When you didn’t, he deepened it, his hand slipping to the back of your neck, anchoring you to the moment. When you finally broke apart, both a little breathless, he rested his forehead against yours and whispered, “So... think you’ll keep me around a little longer?” You couldn’t help but smile and giggle. “Yeah. I think I might.” And just like that, the world felt a little more in focus—like the chaos made sense when it was with him. As the sun dipped lower, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold, you leaned back against Josh’s shoulder, content to let time slip away.

You had no idea where this would go, but for the first time in a long while, that didn’t scare you. Because with Josh by your side, life wasn’t just happening to you—it was unfolding, one messy, beautiful moment at a time. The seasons shifted, summer settling in with its lazy, sun-soaked days and warm, starry nights. You and Josh fell into a rhythm that felt natural, like you’d always been part of each other’s lives. Your days were filled with impromptu adventures—getting lost in thrift shops, trying to cook with whatever strange ingredients Josh brought home from the market, and late-night drives to nowhere, windows down and music blasting. One evening, as dusk painted the sky in shades of lavender and gold, Josh showed up at your apartment with a mischievous gleam in his eyes. “Pack a bag,” he announced, barely waiting for you to open the doors he barged in. You raised an eyebrow. “Hello to you too. And For what exactly?” You laugh softly watching him walk past you. “Surprise road trip. No questions. Just... trust me.” He said looking back at you giving you his classic Josh grin.

You couldn’t help but laugh at his enthusiasm. “You always have a plan, don’t you?” He shrugged, pretending to think. “Not really. Just a strong conviction that we’ll figure it out on the way.” He ended the conversation by walking up the stairs to your bedroom. Fifteen minutes later, you were in his Jeep, windows down, the smell of summer filling the air. Josh had a playlist queued up—songs that ranged from soft indie ballads to Rock and Roll. You didn’t care where you were headed, because being with him made the destination feel irrelevant. After a couple of hours, he pulled off the road at a small, hidden beach, where the sand met the cool, dark waves. The sky was turning indigo, the first stars peeking through. He opened the trunk and revealed a mess of blankets, pillows, and a thermos. “Thought we could camp out. You up for it?” You grinned, helping him set up a makeshift bed in the back of the car. “You’re ridiculously good at this spontaneous thing.” Josh flashed a sly grin. “It’s all part of my charm.”

As the night settled around you, he poured hot cocoa from the thermos, handing you a cup. You sat on the sand, shoulders brushing, listening to the waves crashing softly. “You know, sometimes I feel like I’m dreaming,” you admitted quietly. “Like this—us—it’s too good to be real.” He looked at you, eyes serious for once. “I get that. Sometimes I wonder when I’m gonna screw it up. But then I remember that you’re still here, choosing to put up with my chaos. So, maybe it’s real after all.” You leaned your head on his shoulder. “I’m not going anywhere. You should know that by now.” He exhaled, like he’d been holding that breath for a while. “Good. Because I think… I think I might love you..” Your heart skipped a beat, and you turned to look at him. He was biting his lip, clearly nervous despite his usual confidence. “You think?” you teased, a soft smile playing on your lips. He groaned, rubbing his face. “Okay, fine. I know. I know I love you. Happy now?” You couldn’t help but laugh, leaning up to kiss him. “Yeah. Because I love you, too.”

The tension melted from his shoulders, replaced by that signature crooked grin. “Thank god. I was starting to think I’d have to pull some grand romantic gesture.” You smirked. “Like what? Serenading me under the stars?” He wiggled his eyebrows. “I could. Got the guitar in the car.” You pulled him closer. “Let’s save that for next time.” The night stretched on, filled with whispered confessions and stories of past heartbreaks and dreams for the future. You lay wrapped in blankets, his arm around you, the sky sprawling wide above. At one point, he traced patterns on your arm with his fingertips. “You know, meeting you—it changed something in me. I didn’t realize how much I needed this...needed you.” You squeezed his hand. “Funny. I was convinced I had life figured out. Then you came along and proved me wrong.” He laughed softly. “I’m good at that—proving people wrong.” You stayed like that, wrapped up in each other and the night air, until sleep took over. The world outside faded, and in that small, quiet bubble of the universe, everything was right. The next morning, sunlight crept through the car windows, and you woke to find Josh already awake, strumming his guitar quietly. When he noticed you stirring, he flashed you a sleepy smile.

“Morning, trouble,” he whispered. You stretched, still tangled in the blankets. “Were you playing for me?” He shrugged shyly. “Just something I was working on,” he admitted. “Kind of a song about us.” Your heart did that familiar, fluttery thing it always did around him. “Sing it to me?” 

He hesitated for a moment, then began, his voice raw and unguarded: “Met you with coffee stains and crooked smiles Didn’t know I’d find a home in those wild eyes Days blend like songs on a worn-out tape But I don’t mind, as long as we’re tangled in fate…”

You listened, captivated, as his words painted a picture of every imperfect, beautiful moment you’d shared. When he finished, he looked at you, almost shy. “You’re incredible,” you whispered, cupping his face. He leaned into your touch, eyes soft. “Nah. I’m just lucky. Lucky you spilled your coffee on me. Lucky you didn’t run the other way.” You kissed him softly, knowing that luck had nothing to do with it. It was something bigger—something neither of you could explain but both of you felt. And as the day unfolded, sun warming the sand and waves lapping at the shore, you knew one thing for sure: no matter where life took you, you and Josh would always find your way back to each other.

Summer passed in a blur of laughter, impromptu adventures, and quiet moments tangled in each other. You found yourselves creating rituals without even realizing it—lazy Sunday mornings at the café where you first met, late-night walks when the city was asleep, and rooftop stargazing while Josh made up constellations just to make you laugh. One evening, you found yourself in Josh’s house, the two of you sprawled on his couch. The place was cluttered with sheet music, books piled in precarious towers, and his guitar resting against his piano. You’d just finished watching a terrible horror movie, both of you laughing more at the cheesy dialogue than feeling any actual fear. Josh stretched his legs across your lap, wiggling his toes until you playfully slapped his ankle. “So, I’ve been thinking,” he said, his tone unusually serious. You arched an eyebrow. “Dangerous territory.” He nudged you with his foot. “No, seriously. I’ve been thinking about...you know, us. This. Whatever we are.” You felt your stomach flip, nerves creeping in despite the easy comfort of the moment. “What about us?” Josh hesitated, running a hand through his wild curls. “I’ve been on my own for a long time. Not because I wanted to be, just because...it’s easier, you know? No expectations, no disappointments.” You nodded, unsure where he was going but not wanting to interrupt.

“But with you,” he continued, his voice softer, “it’s different. I don’t mind the messy parts or the hard parts. I actually...kind of want them. Because they’re yours. And I want all of it. All of you.” Your heart pounded as he shifted to sit up, his face earnest and just a little vulnerable. “I guess what I’m saying is...I’m all in. Whatever this becomes, whatever it is. I’m here for it. I just need to know if you are too.” You reached out, lacing your fingers with his. “Josh, you kind of turned my life upside down, you know that?” He looked momentarily worried, but you squeezed his hand. “But it’s good. It’s good because I didn’t know how much I needed someone who’s not afraid to be messy or real. You make me feel like I can breathe. Like it’s okay to just be myself.” A slow smile spread across his face. “You’re really bad at giving romantic speeches, you know that?” You laughed, swatting his shoulder. “I’m trying, okay?” He pulled you closer, his forehead resting against yours. “Good. Because I’m not really good at it either. I’m just...good at feeling things. And with you, it’s kind of overwhelming sometimes.” You kissed him then, slow and deep, like you were trying to tell him without words that you felt it too. That you were scared, but it didn’t matter because he made the fear worth it.

When you pulled away, he was still smiling, his fingers tracing patterns on your arm. “So, are we doing this then? You and me—officially driving each other crazy?” You grinned. “Yeah. We’re doing this.” He leaned back, pulling you against his chest, and you settled into the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. After a while, he whispered, “You know, I was thinking about writing a song about this.” You glanced up at him. “About what?” He chuckled. “About how you’re the best accident that’s ever happened to me.” You rolled your eyes, but your heart melted. “That’s cheesy, even for you.” He laughed softly. “Yeah, but it’s true,” he said, pressing a kiss to your forehead. After that night, something shifted between you—something subtle but undeniable. You were still the same chaotic pair, stumbling through life one spontaneous decision at a time, but now there was certainty underneath it all. An unspoken understanding that whatever happened, you were in it together. One weekend, he took you to the coast—a craggy, windswept beach where you spent hours running from the tide and collecting smooth stones. You built a tiny cairn together, balancing the stones just so, and Josh insisted it was a monument to your questionable decision-making skills.

That night, sitting by a bonfire he managed to coax into existence, you talked about dreams—his of finally recording an movie, yours of traveling without a plan. The firelight danced across his face, and he looked at you like you were something rare and precious.

He sang to you again, the melody quieter this time, almost a lullaby. “If I could hold time in my hands I’d press rewind to that first chance Coffee stains on a crowded street Where fate decided you’d find me…”

You rested your head on his shoulder, your fingers tracing the worn edge of his jacket. When he stopped playing, you whispered, “I never thought I’d feel like this. Safe. Happy. Kind of terrified.” He kissed your temple. “Same. But you’re worth the risk.” The stars burned bright above you, and the ocean’s rhythm seemed to pulse in sync with your heartbeats. You didn’t know where life would take you next, but for the first time, that uncertainty didn’t feel like a threat. It felt like a promise.

A promise that you’d keep discovering each other, one unexpected moment at a time. And whatever came next, you knew you’d face it together.

Autumn crept in slowly, painting the city with shades of amber and gold. You and Josh found new rituals—pumpkin spice everything (which he made a show of hating but secretly loved), long walks through the park as the leaves crunched underfoot, and cozy nights wrapped up in blankets, watching movies that ranged from cult classics to bizarre indie films neither of you fully understood.

One chilly Friday evening, you were curled up on Josh’s couch, his head resting in your lap as you absentmindedly played with his curls. You were halfway through an old black-and-white movie when he suddenly sat up, looking at you with a spark in his eyes. “Let’s go somewhere,” he said, his voice brimming with excitement. You glanced at the clock. “It’s almost midnight.” “Exactly. We’ll be the only ones out. Just us and the city. Come on.” He grabbed your hand, pulling you to your feet.

Within minutes, you were bundled up and out the door, your breath visible in the crisp night air. Josh led you through the winding streets, eventually ending up on the roof of a parking garage that overlooked the city. The lights stretched out like a constellation, and the distant hum of traffic felt strangely comforting. Josh pulled out his phone, scrolling through his playlists. “Dance with me,” he whispered, holding out his hand. You laughed. “Up here? There’s no music.” He hit play, and a soft, soulful melody filled the air. “Now there is,” he said, pulling you close. You let him guide you in a slow, swaying dance, his hands firm on your waist. The world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you under the city lights. He spun you unexpectedly, and you couldn’t help but laugh, nearly stumbling into his arms. “Careful,” he teased. “I’m not trained to catch falling coffee enthusiasts.” You smacked his shoulder playfully. “I haven’t spilled on you in weeks. I’m practically reformed.”

He grinned, leaning down to rest his forehead against yours. “Still my favorite criminal.” He spun you again and dipped you and almost dropped you. You grabbed onto him frantically as you squealed, he caught you and tripped falling against the edge of the garage. You stared at him in shock for a moment then burst out laughing hard. He laughed nervously “I’m so sorry. I’m not usually this clumsy. Must be nervous.” He laughed nervously standing up carefully with you and continued dancing.

The song played on, and you rested your head on his chest, listening to the steady beat of his heart. When the track ended, he didn’t move, just kept holding you like he was afraid you’d vanish if he let go. “Hey,” you whispered, looking up at him. “What’s on your mind?” He hesitated, biting his lip. “I’ve been thinking…about us. About how it feels like I’ve known you for a thousand years. Like every moment with you makes sense, even when it shouldn’t.” Your heart thudded in your chest, but you didn’t interrupt. “I used to think that I’d always be this wandering mess—never settling, never feeling like I belonged anywhere. But with you…it’s different. I don’t want to wander anymore. I just want to be here. With you.” You felt a lump rise in your throat, but you smiled. “Josh…” He cupped your face, brushing his thumb across your cheek. “You make me want to stay. You make me feel like I’ve finally found something worth holding onto.”

You wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him down for a kiss. It was soft and slow, like a promise exchanged under the night sky. When you pulled back, you whispered, “You’re home to me too. You and your wild ideas, your terrible sandwiches, and your stupidly perfect songs.” He laughed, brushing his nose against yours. “I love you.” You kissed him again, whispering against his lips, “I love you too.” A gust of wind made you shiver, and Josh immediately shrugged off his jacket to drape over your shoulders. You pulled it closer, inhaling his scent—earthy and warm, like cedarwood and coffee. “Do you think this is it?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper. “Like…our story?” He thought for a moment, looking out over the city. “I think this is just the beginning. We’ve got a lot more chapters to mess up and make beautiful. But yeah…it feels like we’re writing something good.”

You stayed there until the night grew colder, sharing stories and half-sung lyrics, dreaming up future road trips and midnight picnics. When you finally made your way back to his place, sleep tugging at your eyelids, he pulled you close in bed, tracing patterns on your back. Just before you drifted off, he whispered, “Promise me we’ll always be like this—messy and unpredictable.” You smiled, pressing a kiss to his chest. “I promise. As long as you keep dancing with me on rooftops.” His laugh rumbled through you, and he tightened his hold, pressing his lips to the top of your head. “Deal.”

As sleep claimed you, you couldn’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, this was what love was meant to feel like—imperfect, spontaneous, and a little bit reckless. You didn’t know what tomorrow would bring, but you were certain of one thing: wherever life took you, Josh would be by your side, hand in hand, coffee stains and all.

Winter crept in quietly, dusting the city with snow and painting the windows of your favorite café with frost. You and Josh spent most evenings wrapped in each other, huddled under blankets, watching the snowflakes dance outside. Sometimes he’d play his guitar softly, making up silly love songs that always made you laugh. One evening, as you sat on Josh’s couch with your legs tangled together, he looked at you with a contemplative expression. “What?” you asked, nudging his foot with yours. He didn’t answer right away, just traced circles on your knee. “I was thinking… would you want to meet my family?” The question caught you off guard. “Your family? Like… your parents?” He nodded slowly, a hint of nervousness in his eyes. “Yeah. They’re having this big holiday thing. It’s not, like, formal or anything. Just… I don’t know. I want you to meet them.” Your heart fluttered. “You’ve never mentioned your family much before.”

He gave a sheepish smile. “They’re kind of a lot. My twin brother, Jake, is the quiet one. He’s got this medium-length hair, always looks a little bit lost in thought. Plays guitar for the band, you know. He’s the chillest one out of all of us. Then there’s Sam, our youngest brother, who’s got shoulder-length hair and plays bass. He’s a bit of a free spirit, kind of always in his own world. Ronnie, our sister, she’s not in the band, but she’s the loudest of the bunch—full of energy, no filter. And my parents, Karen and Kelly… they’re great. Just… be prepared for a lot of questions and a lot of music.” You laughed, reaching up to cup his face. “I’d love to meet them. Are you sure you’re ready for that?” His eyes softened, and he kissed your palm. “Yeah. You’re…important to me. And I want them to know you.”

A week later, you found yourself in Frankenmuth, a tiny Bavarian town in Michigan. You were gripping Josh’s hand tightly as he led you up the path to a charming old house, twinkling with holiday lights. Before you could knock, the door swung open, revealing a quiet, familiar-looking face framed by medium-length hair. Jake gave a small, almost shy smile. “Hey, Josh. You made it.” Josh grinned. “Of course we did. This is—” Jake nodded at you with a calm, gentle expression cutting Josh off. “I know. Nice to finally meet you. Josh doesn’t really shut up about you.” Before you could respond, Ronnie appeared behind Jake, shoving him lightly out of the way. “Seriously? You’re the one who finally got Josh to calm down a little? You deserve an award.” She gave you a quick, tight hug before stepping back, eyes glinting with curiosity. Josh rolled his eyes. “Ronnie, maybe let her breathe?” Then came Sam, sauntering in with his shoulder-length hair tucked under a beanie, carrying a bass case. “Hey, you’re here! Awesome. Jake, Mom wants you to help set up the music stuff.” Jake gave a nod and slipped quietly past, his guitar strapped across his back. Sam gave you a casual smile. “You’re the girlfriend, huh? Cool. Hope you like loud family gatherings.” Just then, Karen appeared, wiping her hands on a dish towel, and pulled you into a warm hug. “Welcome! I’ve heard so much about you. Come in, come in. It’s freezing out there.” Kelly followed, his presence calm and solid, offering a firm handshake. “Nice to meet you. Josh doesn’t bring people around often. You must be special.”

Inside, the house was cozy and filled with the scent of cinnamon and pine. Ronnie was already dragging you into the living room, where Jake was tuning his guitar and Sam was adjusting his bass amp. Dinner was a chaotic mix of laughter and banter, with Ronnie making sure to embarrass Josh by telling stories from their childhood. Sam occasionally chimed in with clever remarks, and Jake mostly listened, nodding along, only speaking when directly asked. At one point, Karen asked about your favorite music, and before you could answer, Josh blurted out, “She’s got good taste. Mostly. Except for that one boy band phase.one Direction right?” You smacked his arm playfully. “Don’t judge my teenage years.” Jake smirked softly, plucking a few quiet chords on his guitar. “Everyone’s got a phase. Josh used to sing in the shower to ABBA.” Ronnie burst out laughing. “Oh my God, I remember that!” Josh’s cheeks flushed. “I was practicing my range!” After dinner, the boys set up in the living room, deciding to play a few songs just for fun. Josh took his usual spot in the center, Sam with his bass, and Jake settled into a stool with his guitar, his fingers moving effortlessly over the strings.

They played a few covers, and then one of their own songs. The room filled with the rich, soulful sound of Josh’s voice, Jake’s intricate guitar work, and Sam’s deep bass lines. You couldn’t help but be mesmerized—seeing Josh perform with his brothers was something else entirely. When the song ended, Karen clapped enthusiastically. “You boys sound better every time. Maybe you should add another member,” she joked, nudging Ronnie. Ronnie shook her head. “Nah. I’ll stick to dancing in the crowd.” After the impromptu performance, Josh led you to the back porch, the cold air biting but refreshing. He pulled you close, wrapping his arms around you. “You’re doing great,” he whispered. You leaned into him. “Your family’s amazing. I see where you get your spirit from.” He chuckled. “Jake’s the calm one, Sam’s the wild card, and Ronnie’s… well, Ronnie. It’s always a circus.” You looked up at him. “But it’s a good kind of circus. I like it.” He kissed your forehead. “I’m glad. I wanted you to meet them because… I don’t know. You’re a part of my life now, and they needed to see that.” You smiled, your heart full. “I’m really happy to be here. They’re great. You’re great.”

He kissed you softly, snowflakes catching in his hair. “I love you,” he whispered. You kissed him back. “I love you too.” That night, as you lay on the pull-out couch in the den, listening to the muffled sounds of the family still buzzing with energy, Josh pulled you closer, resting his chin on your head. “Thanks for being here,” he murmured sleepily. You squeezed his hand. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” And as the snow fell softly outside, you knew you weren’t just part of Josh’s life—you were becoming part of his world. And that world, chaotic and musical and beautiful, was exactly where you wanted to be.

The next morning, you woke to the smell of coffee and the distant sound of guitar chords. The house was quieter than last night, with a calm that only comes after a night full of laughter and music. Josh was still asleep beside you, his curls tangled and his arm draped over your waist. You carefully shifted out of bed, pressing a kiss to his temple before tiptoeing out into the hallway. As you made your way to the kitchen, you found Jake sitting at the dining table, a notebook open in front of him, quietly strumming his guitar. His medium-length hair fell in his face, and he seemed lost in thought. He looked up when he saw you and gave a small, almost shy smile. “Morning.” “Hey,” you whispered. “Couldn’t sleep?” He shrugged. “Early riser some days. Plus, once Sam’s up, it’s not exactly quiet.” He laughed softly. You smiled, pouring yourself a cup of coffee. “Last night was fun. You guys sound amazing together.” Jake’s lips curved into a modest smile. “Thanks. We’ve been playing together for so long, it’s kind of second nature now. Josh is… well, he’s always been the loud one. The voice. I’m just the background noise.” You frowned, pulling out a chair to sit across from him. “You’re more than that. You’re the foundation. The way you play—it holds everything together.” His eyes flickered with surprise, a soft blush creeping up his cheeks. “No one really says that. Usually, it’s just, you know, ‘Josh and the band.’” You reached across the table, touching his hand lightly. “I think you’re incredible. Josh knows it too. You all make the band what it is. After all, Josh said it was your band.” She smiled.

He looked down at his guitar, fingers absentmindedly plucking a soft melody. “Thanks. That means a lot.” Just then, the sound of shuffling feet interrupted, and Sam wandered in, his shoulder-length hair tousled and eyes still heavy with sleep. He gave a lazy wave. “Hey. You survived family night?” You laughed. “Barely. Your sister almost interrogated me to death.” Sam smirked. “Yeah, Ronnie’s the worst. She thinks she’s our manager even though she’s not in the band.” As if summoned, Ronnie burst in, fully awake and on a mission. “I heard that, Sam. If I were your manager, you’d have better haircuts and matching outfits.” Sam groaned. “Matching outfits? Please, no.” Jake just chuckled softly, clearly used to the sibling chaos. Karen appeared next, cheerfully bustling around the kitchen. “Good morning! Did you sleep well?” You nodded. “Surprisingly, yes. Your couch is actually really comfortable.” She set a plate of pancakes on the table and ruffled Sam’s hair. “We always make a big breakfast after a family night. Helps everyone recover from the madness.” As you all sat around the table, Jake and Sam continued to banter back and forth about setlists and song ideas while Karen occasionally threw in suggestions. Kelly wandered in, sleepy but smiling, and gave you a warm nod of acknowledgment. Josh finally stumbled in, his hair wilder than ever and eyes squinting against the morning light. He made a beeline for the coffee pot and grunted something that might have been “Good morning.” Ronnie smirked. “Nice of you to join us, Sleeping Beauty.” Josh ignored her, plopping down next to you and resting his head on your shoulder. “Why is everyone so loud?” he mumbled. You chuckled, running your fingers through his curls. “Because it’s morning, and normal people are awake now.” He made a dramatic groaning noise. “Morning people are the worst.” Jake nodded in agreement. As the breakfast chaos unfolded, Karen placed a stack of pancakes on Josh’s plate. “Eat, honey. You’re grumpier than usual.” 

Jake leaned over with a sly smile. “He’s just mad because he didn’t get his beauty sleep.” Josh flipped him off half-heartedly, making everyone laugh. When breakfast wrapped up, Sam and Jake grabbed their instruments and headed to the garage to rehearse. Ronnie dragged you into the living room, clearly eager to share stories about her brothers. “Did you know Josh used to practice singing in the basement with a hairbrush when we were kids?” she whispered conspiratorially. You tried not to laugh too loudly. “Seriously?” She nodded. “Oh yeah. He was all dramatic, like he was already performing for a stadium. Jake would just roll his eyes and play along. Sam wasn’t even born yet.” Just then, Josh walked in and shot her a glare. “I can hear you, you know.” Ronnie just grinned. “Good. You’re not getting out of me telling stories.” Josh rolled his eyes but pulled you to your feet. “Come on. Let’s escape while we can.” You followed him out to the backyard, the snow glistening in the sunlight. He wrapped his arms around you, his face buried in your neck. “Sorry about the chaos,” he mumbled. “They’re a lot.” You kissed his cheek. “I love it. I love them. And I love you.” His face softened. “You’re pretty amazing, you know that?” You shrugged playfully. “I try.”

He looked at you with that familiar warmth, the kind that made your heart feel too full. “I was worried you’d feel overwhelmed. They’re so… loud and different from just us.” You cupped his face, brushing your thumb over his cheek. “Josh, it’s perfect. Your family is real and chaotic and beautiful—just like you.” He kissed you, soft and slow, as if savoring the moment. “Good. Because I don’t just want you to be a part of my life. I want you to be part of this—all of it. The band, the family, the messy mornings. Everything.” Your heart felt like it might burst. “I’m in. All of it.” He pulled you closer, resting his forehead against yours. “Good. Because you’re stuck with us now.” The sound of music floated out from the garage, a familiar riff from one of the band’s songs, and Josh smiled. “Sounds like they’re warming up. Wanna go watch?” You nodded, taking his hand. As you followed the music, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of belonging settle over you. This wasn’t just a visit—it was the beginning of weaving yourself into Josh’s world, and you couldn’t be happier about it.

The music from the garage grew louder as you and Josh made your way over, hand in hand. When you pushed open the side door, you found Jake and Sam deep into a jam session, the raw sound of Jake’s guitar intertwining with Sam’s groovy bass line. They didn’t notice you come in at first, too caught up in the rhythm.

Ronnie was sitting cross-legged on an old amp, nodding along, while Kelly stood in the corner, arms crossed, a proud smile on his face. When Josh walked in, Jake glanced up, giving a quick nod but not missing a beat. “Mind if I jump in?” Josh called out, his voice cutting through the music. Sam grinned. “Only if you can keep up, old man.” Josh rolled his eyes and grabbed his microphone from its stand. You couldn’t help but feel a thrill at seeing him like this—completely in his element. As Jake picked up the melody, Josh started to sing, his voice filling the small space, rich and soulful. Ronnie leaned over and whispered to you, “They’ve been working on this new song for a while. Sam wanted a more psychedelic vibe, but Jake keeps pushing for bluesy rock. They’re trying to find the middle ground.” You smiled, watching as Josh poured himself into the vocals, his eyes closing as he lost himself in the music. You couldn��t help but be captivated by the way his voice wrapped around the melody, powerful yet intimate.

When the song ended, the room fell quiet for a moment before Karen poked her head in. “That sounded amazing! Are you boys finally agreeing on something?” Sam laughed, wiping his forehead. “Maybe. It’s coming together. I like where it’s going.” Josh caught your eye, grinning like a kid who’d just found something he’d lost. He gestured for you to come closer, and you slipped into his arms. “What’d you think?” he asked, still a little breathless. “It was incredible. You guys are… wow. Just wow.” Jake smiled faintly, giving a small nod of approval. “She’s right. That was the best take we’ve done.” Kelly chimed in, patting Sam on the shoulder. “You boys keep at it. That’s got something special.” Jake plucked a few soft chords, thoughtful as always. “I think the bridge needs something more. Maybe some harmonies? Josh, what do you think?” Josh tapped his chin, considering. “Yeah, something ethereal. Maybe you and Sam can layer it while I keep the main melody. I can try a falsetto on top.”

You couldn’t help but admire how naturally they worked together, bouncing ideas off each other without ego or conflict. Ronnie rolled her eyes. “You guys are such perfectionists. It sounds great. Just play it like that.” Kelly chuckled. “They can’t help it. Artists, right?” After a while, the music died down, and Jake put his guitar back on the stand. “We’ll pick it up later. My fingers are about to fall off.” Sam agreed, already scrolling through his phone. “Yeah, I need a break. Plus, I’m starving.” You laughed, nudging Josh. “Does your family ever stop eating?” Josh grinned. “Nope. We’re like hobbits—second breakfast, elevenses, and everything in between.” Back in the kitchen, Karen was already putting out sandwiches and leftover pancakes. Sam made a beeline for the food, while Jake poured himself another cup of coffee, still humming the melody from earlier. You found yourself next to Ronnie, who leaned in conspiratorially. “So, you survived band practice. Not bad.”

You smiled. “It’s actually kind of amazing seeing them work together. They just… click.”Ronnie shrugged. “Yeah, it’s always been like that. Even when they were kids. They’d play in the basement for hours, trying to nail a single riff. I’d have to sneak down just to get them to eat something.” Josh caught your eye from across the room and flashed you a smile that made your heart skip a beat. Karen, noticing the look, sidled up next to you with a knowing expression. “He’s happier when you’re around. You know that?” You glanced at her, slightly embarrassed. “I just… I don’t know. I didn’t expect to fit in so well.” She patted your arm. “That’s how it is when it’s right. Josh has always had big dreams, but it’s good to see him grounded, too. You’re good for him.” Later that afternoon, you found yourself on the back porch with Jake, who was quietly strumming his guitar. You sat beside him, sipping your coffee. After a while, he looked at you, his expression thoughtful. “Thanks for being good to him,” he said quietly.

You glanced at him in surprise. “Of course. I love him.” Jake nodded. “Yeah, I can tell. Josh can be… a lot. He’s always had this restless energy. It’s nice seeing him… settled. Happy.” You smiled, touched by Jake’s words. “He makes me happy, too. I didn’t know how much I needed someone like him until he showed up.” Jake’s lips quirked into a rare smile. “You balance him. I think that’s why it works.” Just then, Josh popped his head out the door. “You two conspiring against me?” Jake just rolled his eyes and kept playing, but you waved Josh over. He plopped down beside you, resting his head on your shoulder. “You look cozy,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to your temple. Jake just smirked. “You’re insufferable.” Josh grinned. “You love me.” Jake didn’t deny it, just kept playing his guitar. That evening, as the sun set and the house filled with soft chatter and music, you couldn’t help but feel like you were exactly where you were meant to be. Josh pulled you aside just before dinner, his face serious but his eyes warm.

“You okay? Not too overwhelmed?” he asked, brushing your hair back. You smiled, squeezing his hand. “I’m perfect. I love your family. I love you.” He let out a soft breath of relief, pressing his forehead to yours. “Good. Because I can’t imagine bringing anyone else here. You fit. You just… belong.” You kissed him, slow and sweet, and when you pulled back, he was grinning like a fool. “You really are the best accident that’s ever happened to me.” And as the evening continued, with music and laughter filling the house, you knew that this wasn’t just a holiday—it was the start of something real, something lasting. A life where you and Josh could build your own melody, blending perfectly into the wild, beautiful symphony of his family.

As the evening rolled on, the house remained alive with laughter, music, and the occasional argument over whose turn it was to pick the next song. After dinner, Karen and Kelly insisted on everyone gathering in the living room for a family game night—something they refused to skip, even when the band was on tour.

You found yourself squeezed between Josh and Sam on the big, worn-out couch, while Jake sat on the floor, guitar resting against his leg. Ronnie plopped herself onto an armchair, clearly ready to dominate whatever game was chosen. Karen brought out a battered old board game—one that clearly had seen years of use. “Trivia night!” she announced, grinning as everyone groaned. “Mom, you know Sam cheats,” Ronnie complained. Sam shot her a glare. “I do not cheat! I’m just smarter than you.”

Josh leaned over and whispered in your ear, “They’ve been fighting over this game since Sam learned how to read.” You laughed and nudged him. “I’m not taking sides.” Kelly divided everyone into teams: you and Josh, Jake and Ronnie, and Sam paired with Karen. Immediately, the competitive energy shifted up a notch, especially when Kelly declared himself the game master. The first question was directed at you and Josh: “What is the capital of Mongolia?” You blinked, caught off guard, but Josh immediately whispered, “Ulaanbaatar.” You repeated the answer, and Kelly nodded approvingly. “Correct!”

Ronnie rolled her eyes. “Show-offs.” Jake just smirked, clearly unbothered. “We’ll catch up.” As the game continued, you found yourself more caught up in the banter than the competition. Sam and Karen were a surprisingly ruthless team, snatching points with an efficiency that made everyone suspicious. Jake was calm and collected, even when Ronnie dramatically overruled his answers, while Josh kept whispering random facts in your ear just to make you laugh. When the final round came down to a tie between your team and Jake and Ronnie’s, Kelly pulled out the ultimate challenge: a music trivia question.

“This one’s for the win,” Kelly announced. “What year was Led Zeppelin’s first album released?” Josh looked at you, eyebrows raised. “Got any guesses?” You bit your lip, thinking. “Sixty…nine?” Josh grinned. “That’s what I was thinking.” You called out the answer, and when Kelly nodded, confirming it, Josh pulled you into a triumphant hug while Ronnie threw her hands up in defeat. “That’s not fair! Of course Josh would know that!” she protested. Jake just shrugged, looking amused. “You’re the one who answered ‘1971,’ not me.” Ronnie huffed but couldn’t help but laugh when Karen handed you and Josh the makeshift “Trivia Champions” crown made of tinfoil.

After the game, everyone gradually dispersed—Ronnie and Sam retreated to the kitchen to make hot chocolate, while Jake headed outside to get some air. You and Josh found yourselves on the back porch again, the night colder now, your breath visible in the air. Josh pulled you into his arms, resting his chin on your head. “You’re pretty good at trivia,” he murmured. You laughed. “I was guessing half the time. You’re the real brainiac.” He kissed your forehead. “Still, we make a good team.” The porch light flickered, casting a soft glow over the snow-dusted yard. You leaned into him, feeling safe and content. “I really love being here with you.”

Josh tightened his hold. “I was worried you’d feel out of place, but you fit right in. They love you. Jake even admitted it earlier.” You looked up at him, surprised. “Really?” “Yeah. He doesn’t usually say much, but when he does, it means something. He said you balance me out. That you make me… better.” You smiled softly, cupping his cheek. “You make me better too. I didn’t know how much I needed this kind of chaos until I met you.” He leaned down, capturing your lips in a slow, sweet kiss. The kind that made you forget about the cold and the world beyond that moment. When he pulled back, his eyes were soft and serious. “I meant what I said earlier,” he whispered. “I want you to be part of this—all of it. Not just the band or the music or the crazy family nights. I want you in every part of my life.” Your heart swelled. “I’m not going anywhere, Josh. You’re stuck with me.” He smiled that crooked, happy smile and pulled you back into his arms, swaying you gently in the quiet night.

Eventually, you both went back inside to find Jake playing a soft melody on his guitar while Ronnie and Sam argued over marshmallow proportions in the hot chocolate. Karen was folding laundry on the couch, humming softly, while Kelly glanced at the newspaper. When Jake saw you, he gave a small nod, and you couldn’t help but smile back. Josh sat down next to his brother, grabbing another guitar and matching his rhythm. They didn’t speak—just played together, their music blending seamlessly. You sat cross-legged on the floor, listening to the quiet, intimate jam session, feeling like you’d stumbled into something special. Ronnie eventually sat beside you, her head on your shoulder, while Sam offered you a steaming mug of cocoa. As the night wore on, Josh started humming along, his voice low and rich, blending with Jake’s soft guitar lines. You could see why they worked so well together—Josh’s energy and Jake’s calm were like two halves of the same soul.

When it was finally time to head to bed, Josh wrapped his arm around your shoulders and led you back to the den. You snuggled into the pull-out couch together, his fingers tracing patterns on your back as you listened to the quiet hum of the house settling. Just before sleep claimed you, Josh whispered, “You’re part of this now. You’re part of us.” You smiled against his chest. “I wouldn’t want it any other way.” And as snow continued to fall softly outside, you couldn’t help but feel that, amidst the music and the madness, you’d truly found where you belonged.

It had been nearly a year since that winter trip to Josh’s family home—a year filled with whirlwind tours, spontaneous road trips, and quiet mornings wrapped in each other’s arms. Life had become a beautiful, unpredictable blend of chaos and comfort, and through it all, you and Josh found ways to keep your worlds intertwined.

The band’s success kept growing. Greta Van Fleet had just wrapped up a massive tour, playing sold-out shows in Europe and North America. You’d joined them for some of it—standing backstage, watching Josh command the crowd with that electric energy only he possessed. You loved seeing him in his element, but what you loved even more was the way his eyes always found yours in the crowd, grounding him.

Now, back home, the band was taking a much-needed break. You and Josh had settled into a small house on the outskirts of town—a cozy, eclectic space filled with mismatched furniture, vinyl records stacked haphazardly, and guitars propped up in every corner.

One evening, as you sat cross-legged on the living room floor, sorting through a box of tour memorabilia, Josh came in carrying takeout, a proud grin on his face. “Guess who managed to order food without messing up this time?” he announced. You raised an eyebrow, playing along. “Did you actually get my order right?” He set the bags on the coffee table and dramatically bowed. “Double-checked it twice. No weird substitutions this time.” You laughed, pulling him down for a kiss. “I’m impressed.”

As you dug into your food, Josh picked up a setlist from the box you were sorting through. “Man, I forgot about this show,” he said, tracing the faded ink. “That night in Paris—the crowd was insane.” You smiled, remembering the way he’d pulled you on stage at the end, dancing with you in front of thousands. “You never told me you were going to do that.” He shrugged, unrepentant. “It felt right. Plus, I liked the look on your face—completely shocked and a little pissed.” You nudged him with your foot. “Yeah, because I wasn’t dressed to be on stage!” He just laughed, pulling you into his lap. “You looked beautiful. You always do.” Just then, his phone buzzed. He glanced at it, his face lighting up. “It’s Jake. He and Sam want to come over. They’re bringing Ronnie too.”

You nodded. “Of course. I’ll make sure there’s something to drink that isn’t just your weird kombucha experiments.” When his siblings arrived, the house filled with noise and life. Jake, quieter as always, greeted you with a nod and a brief, tight hug. Sam immediately claimed the armchair, while Ronnie barged in like a tornado, dropping bags of chips on the counter. “We come bearing snacks,” she announced. “And stories. Because Sam did something stupid at the last gig.” Sam scowled. “It wasn’t that bad.” Jake smirked. “He tripped over a cable and face-planted in front of the sound guy.” Josh howled with laughter, and you couldn’t help but join in. “Oh no, Sam! Are you okay?” Sam waved it off. “I’m fine. Just my pride took a hit.” Ronnie leaned in. “And the best part? Jake didn’t even react. Just kept playing while Sam was lying on the floor.” Jake shrugged, completely unbothered. “The show must go on.”

As the night wore on, the house felt fuller than it had in months. Jake and Josh started noodling on their guitars, coming up with new melodies while Sam tapped out a rhythm on the coffee table. Ronnie was busy raiding your kitchen, muttering about the lack of decent snacks. Eventually, the conversation turned to what was next for the band. Jake spoke up first. “We’ve been talking about writing some new stuff. More collaborative this time. Josh, you up for it?” Josh nodded, looking thoughtful. “Yeah. I’ve got some lyrics I’ve been messing around with. Thought about leaning into something more soulful—still rock, but deeper. Real.” Sam raised an eyebrow. “You’re gonna go introspective on us?” Josh shrugged. “Maybe. I just... I want it to mean something. You know?” You couldn’t help but smile at his passion. It was one of the things you loved most about him—how he always wanted to push boundaries and make music that resonated.

Later, when his siblings had gone, and the house was quiet again, Josh pulled you onto the couch, his fingers lazily tracing circles on your arm. “Sometimes I wonder if this is too good to be true,” he murmured. You looked up at him. “What do you mean?” He sighed, his eyes drifting to the window. “All of it. The band, you... this life. It’s like I keep waiting for something to go wrong. Like it’s too perfect.” You cupped his face, bringing his gaze back to yours. “Nothing’s perfect, Josh. But that doesn’t mean it’s not real. You’ve worked so hard for this—you deserve every bit of it.”

He kissed you softly, lingering as if memorizing the feel of you. “I guess I’m just scared. Scared of losing what we have.” You pressed your forehead to his. “We’re not going anywhere. You and me—we’re stronger than all the chaos.” He pulled you closer, burying his face in your neck. “Promise me we’ll always find our way back to this.” You smiled, your fingers threading through his curls. “I promise. No matter how crazy life gets, we’ll always find each other.” He sighed contentedly, tightening his hold. “You know, I wrote something the other day. A song. About us.” Your heart skipped a beat. “Can I hear it?” He hesitated, then reached for his notebook on the coffee table. Opening it to a worn page, he cleared his throat.

“It’s just a draft, but... ‘You and I, we’re reckless hearts Dancing through the fire, falling apart But every time I think I’m lost You’re the melody I find The chaos I don’t mind...’”

You felt a tear slip down your cheek, and he wiped it away with his thumb, smiling softly. “It’s not done, but... it’s a start.” “It’s beautiful,” you whispered. “Just like you.” He kissed you again, longer this time, like he was pouring every unspoken word into that moment. And as the city lights flickered outside, you knew that no matter where the music took him—or the band—you’d always be right there by his side.

A few months had passed since that cozy night in and life had picked up its usual chaotic pace. The band was deep into the creative process, working on a new album. Josh, Jake, Sam, and Danny were practically living at the studio, caught up in late-night recording sessions and endless takes.

You still had your routine together, though—quick breakfasts at your little dining table, hurried kisses before he rushed off to the studio, and late-night calls when he couldn’t make it home. You’d gotten used to his creative frenzies, how he’d sometimes text you snippets of lyrics at three in the morning or call just to hum a melody he couldn’t get out of his head.

One evening, you came home to find the house dark except for the faint glow coming from the living room. You pushed the door open, balancing takeout in one hand, and saw Josh curled up on the couch, his guitar in his lap, scribbling something in his notebook. He looked up, and his face lit up. “Hey! You’re home.” You smiled and kicked off your shoes. “What are you doing here? I thought you’d be at the studio.” He shrugged, looking a little sheepish. “Needed a break. Plus... I missed you.” You set the food down and walked over to him, pressing a kiss to his forehead. “Rough day?”

Josh sighed, running a hand through his messy curls. “Yeah. Just... a lot of pressure. Everyone’s got their own ideas, and I’m trying to make it all fit. Sometimes I feel like I’m stuck between what everyone wants and what I feel the songs should be.” You knelt in front of him, resting your hands on his knees. “Hey, it’s your voice. Your vision. They’ll follow your lead, Josh. They always do.” He smiled faintly. “You always know what to say.” You kissed him softly, feeling the tension melt from his shoulders. “Come on, let’s eat. You look like you haven’t had a decent meal all day.”

As you set out the food, Josh filled you in on the studio drama—how Sam was experimenting with a more psychedelic bassline that Jake wasn’t convinced about, and how Danny kept changing the tempo mid-take. It was clear that everyone’s creativity was clashing, but you could tell that Josh wasn’t angry—just overwhelmed. 

After dinner, he picked up his guitar again and started softly strumming, his voice low and thoughtful. You sat beside him, leaning your head on his shoulder, just listening. “You know,” he murmured, “I wrote a song today. Kind of just... came out.” You perked up. “Can I hear it?” He hesitated, then nodded. “It’s rough, but... yeah.” He adjusted his guitar and started playing, his voice tender and unguarded. “All the noise and all the fire Chasing dreams till we’re so tired But in the quiet, I see your face And I remember why I’m in this place It’s you... it’s you... My home, my truth... When the world gets loud, I’m found In the way you hold me down...”

You swallowed the lump in your throat, fighting back tears. He strummed the final chord and looked at you, his eyes soft and unsure. “It’s beautiful,” you whispered, reaching for his hand. “You’re beautiful.” Josh smiled, his shoulders relaxing. “I just... I needed to remind myself why I do this. Why all the chaos is worth it.” You brushed a kiss to his knuckles. “You always say the music is in your bones. It’s who you are. You just need to trust yourself. They trust you. You’ve got this.” He wrapped his arms around you, pulling you into his lap. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.” You kissed his neck, breathing him in. “Luckily, you’ll never have to find out.” The next few weeks passed in a blur of studio sessions and late-night songwriting marathons. You’d wake up to find Josh strumming in bed, humming a new melody or jotting down lyrics on the backs of napkins. Despite the chaos, there was a sense of purpose in his movements—like he’d found his footing again.

One night, the band came over to your house after a long recording session. Jake looked exhausted but content, Sam was buzzing with excitement, and Danny seemed relieved to finally have a break. They spread out in your living room, cracking open beers and arguing about guitar solos. Jake leaned back, eyes half-closed. “Josh finally figured out the chorus on that track we were stuck on. Sounds... good. Real good.” Josh shot him a look. “It was a group effort.” Sam snorted. “Nah, man. You dragged us out of the creative pit. You should take some credit.” Ronnie, who had shown up with snacks, chimed in. “See? I told you guys. You just needed to stop overthinking it.” Danny stretched his legs out, grinning. “It’s gonna be one hell of an album. I can feel it.” 

Later, when everyone had cleared out and the house was quiet again, you and Josh sat on the fire escape, looking out at the city. He pulled you close, his arm wrapped around your shoulders. “I feel good,” he admitted. “Like... I remembered why I started this in the first place. It’s not about getting it perfect. It’s about making something real.”

You leaned into him. “You always do. That’s why people love you. Why I love you.” He kissed the top of your head, his voice soft. “I keep thinking about what happens when the album’s done. When the tour starts up again. It’s always moving—always going somewhere.” You looked up at him. “And I’ll be right there with you. Whether it’s on the road or waiting at home. We’ll figure it out.” Josh looked at you with that unguarded, vulnerable expression—the one he only ever showed when it was just the two of you. “You’re my constant. You know that?” You smiled, squeezing his hand. “And you’re mine.” The night stretched on, the city lights flickering in the distance, and you knew that no matter how crazy things got, no matter where the music took him, you and Josh would always find your way back to this—the quiet, the connection, the feeling of being home in each other’s arms.

a/n: if you’d like to be added to the tag list just ask if love to add you!!💕

Tag list: @fleetingjake

[ashloremystic]

18+ MDNI

How is it four chapters already??? As a reminder this is a back story for a few of my Original Characters(I may or may not include a few snips from the book im currently writing for them.). This is mostly a draft and any mistakes I apologize for. I suck at editing rn lol. Hope you enjoy!!

Little Wolf

This is part of a on going series! First Chapter here. Chapter 3 here.

Chapter 4

Michelle pov

The birds had a death wish…It was not even 6am and they were already so damn loud. Waking me with their chipper chirps and morning songs way before I had planned to be awake. 

I wanted to sleep in since I knew today was going to be  another day locked in. Strangely enough they had never woken me before, but of course since I had a taste of freedom last night I was meant to suffer today.

Chirp chirp chirp…

I grabbed my pillow and wrapped it around my ears groaning as I searched for the will to go back to sleep. 

Somehow I manage to fall back asleep and woke again to the smell of hot fresh breakfast meats…my stomach growled and I about drooled all over myself. 

A knock sounded on my bedroom door. Expecting Freya I hopped out the bed as I was and pulled the door opened…Only to scream and slam it back shut.

“Seriously?” Cal’s muffled voice called from the other side of the door as I quickly grabbed my robe, pulled my hair into a bun and thumbed the sleep off of my face. 

I opened the door back up trying to act like I wasn’t out of breath. The blonde too good looking god of a man gave me a annoyed look.

“I come to bring you breakfast and to check up on you and this is how you treat me?”

“I thought you were Freya.” I said to him apologetically  as I stepped out of his way so he could bring the tray in and sit it down on the coffee table next to the floral faint couch. 

The moment the lid came over I didn’t hear a word he said because I was diving into the bacon and sausage. I moaned as I took the first bite and sank down to said couch behind us.

“That good?” 

“Nothing like hot grease soaked meats fresh off the stove.”

“Is this how you are every morning?” He asked looking at me with interest.

I thought about it mid chew and stopped. “Not particularly. It just smells and tastes so damn good today.” 

He smirked at me. “maybe it’s cus I brought it to you.”

I stopped chewing . “why are you the one bringing my food anyway?”

“Freya’s occupied.” He answered as he reached for my plate and got a smack on the hand instead. “Hey! You could share.”

“Don’t vampires like drink blood instead of eating human food.”

He tisked at me. “You need to do your research little hen. I am a Fledgling…meaning I still need to consume food or I will die. Do you want me to die little bird?” He asked as he reached over and failed again. 

I rolled my eyes and smiled at him as he pretended to faint. 

“very mature Cal.”

He didn’t budge so I grabbed a piece of sausage patty and held it out for him… He still didn’t take it. It took me climbing into his lap and pressing it against his lips before his honey eyes peeked up at me and he took a bite. Playfully nipping my fingers in the process.

We both were laughing as he held me on his lap and let me feed him. It was a very intimate position I found myself thinking especially when I could feel him so close below me.

Kisses ran up my neck and along my jaw till my ear was softly trapped between Cal's teeth.  His hands pulled my body down harder against his and he softly moaned. It was a deep sultry sound that had me leaning back to look at him.

“your blushing.” He teased lightly as he re adjusted us and wiggled his hips slightly.

“what are you doing?” I asked before I caught on. By then his sex was pressed between the folds of mine with nothing but the fabrics of our clothes between us.

His hands guided my hips making me brush up the length of him.  I whimpered at the sudden awakening of pleasure I felt. Almost like last night but my mind know what I was pressed against and it was…impressive.

“I can teach you so much if you let me.” His Iips were back at my ear as I leaned into him.I couldn’t speak..My voice caught with a moan that wanted to escape as I road the wave that, if I wasn’t careful would become my new addiction. 

“Let it out…” he cooed as he sucked at my neck. His fangs not breaking my skin but sliding along it.

Softly I moaned as my legs squeezed his hips. Grinding faster against each other as we chased for release.

“So beautiful.” He praised his breath coming out panting as his grip on to me became almost painful.  “I need to….” He grabbed for something but I was too busy to care. “fuck he growled and flipped us jerking faster against my sensitive flesh till I was seeing stars and crying out as my body tensed with a toe curling orgasm. 

I looked down between us and watched as his hand jerked the length of him till a milky fluid spilled from the head and down onto my lower belly and the top of my panties. It was almost hot and felt so odd against my skin.

“Sorry.. I didn’t think that through.” He hissed breathlessly. He then looked down between us and grinned.“You were gonna have to ditch these anyway.” He tugged my soaked panties and got up. “I’ll get a towal.”

“Umhmm..”  I waved still trying to gather my thoughts and didn’t even snap at him for laughing.

He came back with a warm towel and wiped my stomach off with care. His finger then hooked into the waistband of my underwear and pulled gently.

I slapped his hand.“hey!.” 

“What..Its not like its nothing I’ve not seen before.”

“But you haven’t seen mine.” I swatted again and sat up to meet his honey eyes.

“Ive given you not only your first but two orgasms.” His thumb pressed down and I sighed softly. “Seeing it wont change much you know..Let me clean you..Please?” His thumb brushed again and my eyes grew heavy as his face dipped down between my thighs..

Knocking sounded on my bedroom door and we both jerked up.

“yes?” I called out.

“Edith sent me to get Cal. He has a client.”

Cal smirked at me. “I’ll be down in a minute.” He called out as he leaned back over me, locking my legs in his arms and pulling me back down so my back was flat on the couch. My hips were tilted towards him.

“Cal…C..AHH..”I cried out as his tongue found my clit and circled it through the fabric a few times. I sucked in a deep breath.The feeling so unfamiliar and intense I pulled away from it.

“Don’t run from me.” He growled pulling me back, driving me crazy as his had bobbed with a few quick licks that had my legs shaking and my pleas echoing off my bedroom walls.

Then he stopped just as I thought I was going to fall over the edge. Leaving only a kiss on one of my thighs behind in his place.

“Gotta save my energy for my client…Think of what could of happened while im gone.” He said to me before getting up and fixing his clothes.

“I think I hate you.” I panted in frustration. Still pressed against the couch contemplating how I would off him.

He laughed his fangs peeking out slightly.

“It called orgasm denial..maybe next time you won’t deny me the view of my handy work. Eat your breakfast baby hen. I’ll see you around.”

I glared at the door behind him…food the farthest thing from my mind. I just had a man's face between my legs and….I needed to talk with someone. Where the hell was Freya!

Tim pov

Freya cried out as she came. I've lost count of how many times…  The sun was up now and I was still on edge.

“Hey.” Freya rolled over. “You know you can talk to me right?”

I raised an eyebrow at her. “what do you mean?” Was it that obvious?

She sat up and pulled the shirt she was wearing off. Her breast slipping free but my eyes followed the fabric instead.

“You’ve never handled me like that before. Not that I’m complaining. Just that it was…more untamed. You also seem tense.” 

“Very vigilant.” I mumbled as I laid back and looked up at the ceiling.  “I just have a lot on my mind with the rogue and all. The full moon is also close so my control is also not the best.”

“Theres also Michelle.” 

I looked over to her and saw a soft smile on her face.

 “why would you think that?”

“Oh don’t play coy! Your obsessed and it shows.” She propped her head on her arms and reached over to run her other hand down my chest. Letting it rest there. “Talk to me…Im all ears and this will stay between us.”

“There isn't anything to really talk about.”

“It's okay to like her, you know? She is really sweet and always so curious… She also seems to be fascinated by you as well.”  Her eyes drifted at what I knew gave me away.

“And so younger than I'd prefer her to be. Besides I’m married and the type of interest I have goes against the agreement that we have.” I admitted.

A warm hand wrapped around the length of me and gently stroked. “You don’t have to love her. She is well aware of the field she grew up in. It will be part of her training if she chooses to work as a consort.

I grunted. “The wolf wants her. Regardless of the fact that I'm already happily mated.”

“Was it the thought of her that made the wolf touch me last night?” 

She had noticed then.

Her thumb brushed the head of my manhood and I shivered sucking in a shaky breath. Feeling something finally.

“Well? Was it?”

“Freya.” I gasped a warning. I didn’t want to hurt her feelings. Especially while one of the most sensitive parts of me was gripped in her hand.

“I heard Wolves can smell scents better than any other being. Was her scent on me that lured you?” She stroked faster. “What does it smell like?”

Immediately at the thought of her scent I came and hard moaning as my hips pumped into another's grip till I was fully milked. I clasped on the bed as almost all the tension I was struggling with left my body.

“Better?” She asked, running her tongue along her finger.

My eyes grew heavy as I mumbled out a answer. “Yes thank you.”

“No problem at all. Sometimes people come to me to talk. Talking helps and it’s my job.” She got out of the bed and stretched giving me a full view of her backside. Some places were lightly bruised from my grip. 

“I'm sorry Freya. If I had hurt you any I mean.” 

She looked back at me and rolled her eyes. “I enjoyed myself. Now get some sleep now. Also, I do suggest you at least try to get to know Michelle better. Maybe just being her friend can help with what you struggle with.”

I nodded and dosed off. Maybe it will.

I don’t know how long I slept…but what I did know was something was wrong…. Magic Pulsed making goosebumps rise on my skin and then I heard it… the faint scream that sounded like it was…in the wall? I knew this magic all too well. It was the call of the moon. Although not full…She was calling. That meant..… “I need to find her.”

Michelle pov

I was dying! I just knew it. It started with a sick feeling and then there was pain. Unimaginable raw pain. I didn't know what to do. I thought it was food poisoning and tried to make it to Edith but I didn’t get far.

 Somehow I ended up in one of the hall closest with my face pressed against the cool floor as my body burned so hot. I didn't want some random client to walk up and find me laid out. So it was the best option I had without making it back to my bedroom.

Something washed over me like a wave and my arm jerked and popped out of place surprising a scream out of me. I even fainted for a few minutes before my leg did the same with a sick sound that had me throwing up. I was afraid and alone! I didn't want to die alone.

The closest door opened.

“shh,” I heard and knew immediately who my hopefully savory was. It was our honored guest. “It will be okay. Just ride it out.” His soothing voice filled in.

“Please make it stop.” I pleaded right before another part of my body tried to rearrange itself.. “Ahhrrgh.” This was pure agony. Never in my life have I ever experienced this kind of pain or would wish this on my worst enemy.

After what seemed like forever, I finally laid sobbing quietly on the floor, curled up in sweat and other fluids…probably blood. But I didn't dare try to move.

Tim? yeah, that was his name…stayed with me. Laying patiently on the floor beside me whispering soothing words to me as I cried.

After some time he wrapped me in his arms and carried me out and took me to his room and sat me down in a chair inside of the connected bathroom. He got on his knees and looked up at me. “You do know what just happened right?”

I shook my head.I had no clue whatsoever. 

“You just attempted to shift. It’s almost a full moon out and this may happen again tomorrow as well as the next full moons to come.”  He brushed my hair from my face with a gentle caress and went on.  “I don’t have a whole lot of experience with Halfbreeds which i'm assuming you are and never had I have one that didn’t change completely.”

That was a shock to me…but I couldn't process that right now.

“Will it always hurt?” I asked instead or how….or why it happened.

His face saddened as he nodded. 

“You need to take a bath. I'll grab you a shirt.”  He said as he stood up and started to run the bath water. When he came back with a shirt, he sat it down and turned to poured some soaps in the tube. He then used his arm to mix it around and test the temp of the water.

“Okay.  You should be set. I’m gonna go.”

“Please don’t leave me.” I begged.

“Fine.” He turned his back to me as I stripped and climbed in. Soon as I was seated and the bubbles were covering me I mumbled for him to turn back around.

Here we were…Two strangers…One who I wanted to know so much about and had no clue where to start…Especially after he just found me in such a state. “Thank you.” Seemed like a good place to start. 

“No need to thank me.. First shifts are rough. Especially alone. Didn't someone in your family tell you they were a wolf?”

I shook my head sinking down some, moaning as the heat soothed my sore muscles. “I've never met my parents. My mother died in childbirth and my father left way before that.” It was a story I told most my life so it didn't really hurt much anymore. “A friend of my mother's raised me and she didn't mention anything either.” She never had the chance too before she had been killed. “Edith however speculated that Neither of my parents were fully Human.”

He hmm to himself. “Probably your father had been then. Female wolves have a hard time conceiving. Has she been you would of had a higher chance of being a full werewolf.”

“good to know.” I reached for a sponge and started to lather it with soap.. “Too bad we can't ask them.” I added sarcastically.

“Nice sense of humor you got there.” He said smiling at me showing dimples. He then stood up. “Let me call for someone to bring up some food. You need to eat and the change takes a lot out of you.”

I nodded and quickly made work of scrubbing my body and washing my hair.

As I was drying off a knocked sounded on the door.

“Want some company too?” I heard

“Not tonight. Just the food will be fine for tonight. Thank you.”

“Are you sure?”

He must have nodded because all I heard after that was the door closing. 

I quickly threw on the shirt and piled my other clothes together by the door. When I walked out the bathroom, I without a second thought claimed a spot in his bed which sat next to a window that faced the front of the property. I didn't want to be alone tonight. 

I guess he understood that. Because he got in and set the tray of food between us. It was simply 2 cheese burgers and a basket of fries. But smelled heavenly.

“One crumb and you're out.” He warned me..

“Deal.” I snagged a fry.

I hope that yall are enjoying this!

Chapter 5 Here

[annievrse]

get him back (prologue)

eren x fem!reader —ᡣ𐭩 blurb a/n: a few people wanted the reason why they broke up in my previous fic, so here is the prologue to it's a bad idea, right? i will admit, this is v short, and it's a shit way to break up, but they got their happy ending, i guess.

"We need to talk," Eren whispers, standing in your doorway. It was past 11 pm on a Monday, and the rest of the floor of your apartment complex had already turned in for the night.

You hadn't expected to see your boyfriend at your front door tonight, but you were more caught off guard by his words.

You tilt your head, your hand still on the door. "About what?"

He doesn't meet your eyes, choosing to look past you and into your apartment. He wonders if this is the last time he'd be welcome here.

"I think we should break up..." He says it so softly you almost don't hear it. His voice is solemn, with tears in his eyes, but he doesn't waver.

"Oh, okay," You furrow your eyebrows, noticing the way his eyes seemed more green than usual. Were his eyes always this bright? "Why?"

"I," He sighs, swallowing. "Well, I've been thinking about us and how we haven't been speaking, and-and I know it's neither of our faults. I just think we need some time apart so we can reconnect, you know? Get to know each other again, like we used to, so this doesn't burn out, and we never see each other again. I know it's a shit reason to break up, but I want you forever, and I'm rambling, shit."

Your hand slips off the door. And when you don't say anything, Eren tries to lean down to see your eyes.

Eren runs his hand over his face, his cheeks flushed in embarrassment from talking too much. "I'm sorry. I don't want to hurt you."

"It's okay," You don't meet his eyes.

"That's it?" He freezes, looking directly at you. Eren tilts his head like a puppy, and you know he is waiting for you to fight. And maybe you should fight for your relationship, but you will if he does, and right now, he would rather have time away than work through it.

"What do you want me to say? What do you want me to do?" You look at him, throwing your hand up. Despite knowing exactly what he is talking about, you are annoyed he has dropped this on you without warning.

"I don't know! Scream at me, hit me, I don't care. I deserve that."

You shake your head, swaying on your feet. "No, you don't," you sigh. "It's not your fault. It's nobody's fault. I mean, it's not like you fucked my best friend or, or—."

"God, no. I would never do that," Eren looks at you like you slapped him. "I—I just think we should spend time apart before we both get hurt in a way we can't reverse."

"Then there's nothing for me to scream at you for," You speak quietly. A thousand thoughts are circling around your head.

"Y/n—"

"Do you love me, though? Or did?" Your voice breaks, but the tears haven't yet reached the surface. You don't think you'll cry.

Eren's eyes widen, and he steps forward, his hands outstretch. "I will always love you. I don't think I could ever stop. I will wait forever if it means you'll be mine again. We just need to get through this distance."

You nod and your eyes soften when you look at his face. "Another time, then? Friend?"

Eren's pained expression only cut deeper when you spat out the last word. But he nods anyway, accepting the olive branch. "Definitely, friend."

[eliteseven]

we meet again. this meetings purpose? as always…another consonance hc thingy.

side note i also hope u don’t find these annoying cause they honestly are just thoughts that pop into my head and you get the ones i think are “good”

anyways

idk about you but whenever i make a band au for something whether it be my fav fandom at the time or just my own oc’s- i usually make a list of like songs that they would totally do.

And lowkey- see Astral Prism absolutely smashing through a bunch of Radiohead songs, the one i’m thinking about the most is Let Down. Always been a favourite of mine and i just like love the very specific idea of Serena and Jen co-writing the song, and since it’s obvi Shads on main vocals, it’s her singing it.

But then, combining the tik tok accounts that i mentioned Shart having, except it’s Serena’s page this time. I can imagine it being only a few videos and half of them are how they wrote some of their songs. And this is the first time that people have really heard Tav sing- the only other time is really on backing vocals an all that jazz. The fans? Fall in love with just this version of Let Down, which i can just imagine jen teasing serena about re-recording the albums with Serena on main vocals and her just being like “but they sound perfect with yours.”

UGH rant aside. Their on tour, one of the last shows or the tour. Venue? Sold out. Fans? Pumped. Serena? Nervous as shit. Hotel? Trivago. Why is Serena nervous you may ask? Well well. If you don’t already know- during the bridge of Let Down theirs two sets of vocals as they essentially sing the same thing. And usually- it’s just a backing track as Shad takes the lead. But- what’s this? No backing track? Just the Raw music? The song plays, it’s amazing- it’s gets to the bridge. And when it gets to the part where the song goes “One day, I am gonna grow wings.” Serena takes leads vocals as Shads does the beautiful extended vocals in the background. Fans go fucking nuts for it. Karlach and Wyll go nuts cause they have no idea cause it’s funnier that way. Serena is struggling just a bit because they barely planned this, but any technical mistakes are being replaced by just the raw emotion she puts into her vocals as she’s still fucking killing it on guitar.

And Shart? Has to sing with her eyes closed just listening to Serena because she’s just going to get side tracked and forget to actually sing- dw, she watches replays of it on tik tok and instagram the next day. I think it would also be rlly cute if that was their first like public kiss is after the song where they are both puffed out from the extended vocals. The crowd roaring with cheers and shouts, only just barley starting to die down before shadowheart leans in and kisses puffed out Serena for just a few seconds- hearing the cheers from the crowd somehow erupt even more so. Shads pulling back to see Serena doe eyed, blushing, and then returning to her spot on stage as if not happened, announcing the last song of the evening and Serena missing her que because she was still caught up in the moment.

I sincerely apologise if this makes zero freaking sense. It is late and this is the most brain fart thing if ive ever seen one.

keep doing you boo xx

- anon

lol I loved this!!! 😭🥰 it was an entertaining read, absolutely no apologies necessary! I never find asks annoying. They are my fucking jam and I’m so excited every single time I see that little grey anonymous ball with the sunglasses lmaooo. It’s like getting to chat up my friends on my favorite subjects. Never apologize and never hesitate in my inbox pls. Its open for a reason 🥹

Now onto your lovely Serena vocalist HC:

Fuck yeah!! I love the idea of Serena being a shy but talented vocalist! And Let Down is great, I know exactly which part you mean!

It’s so sweet that Jen believes in her and knows her talent before anyone else does (even Wyll and Karlach- I can see their shocked expressions when she belts it out live lmfao). I think Jen would be totally supportive of the fans realizing Serena is as talented as she is.

The live show you described is soooo sweet and satisfying, and the moment is so climactic! Poetic cinema 🥰 the idea that Jen has to close her eyes to focus is so real, she’d be lost watching Serena accompany her like that. And the kiss?? 😮‍💨 still breathless, panting, so fucking proud of her gf that she just HAS to kiss Serena to let her know?? Holding their foreheads together for a moment, forgetting the crowd entirely, trying to catch their breath?

Serena missing her cue because she’s zoning out staring at Jen has to happen at least once a show lol. She catches up quickly and the fans probably replay that moment 24/7 afterwards 😅

I love it all!!! Jen definitely pushes for Serena to do more vocals after the fact. I love that she slowly becomes less and less shy around Jen as she warms up to the idea that she’s safe with her. They both grow so much because of each other’s support. 💕

[heavensbeehall]

"Catching Fire", Chapter 7

Part 1: The Spark

Chapter 7: Katniss leaves clues for Gale to meet her at the Lake. She has never taken Gale to the Lake before, it was just for her and her Father. She tells Gale her tale of woe, and that she wants to run away. He says he loves her and she is caught off-guard. He turns angry when she mentions wanting Peeta and Haymitch to come. Then is excited by the prospect of an uprising. After that failed attempt, Katniss then talks to Peeta who is more open-minded but he wants to talk it over with Haymitch first... then they arrive at the main square to find a new Head Peackeeper has arrived.

Thoughts:

-- What is Mayor Undersee's job exactly? It seems he reports to the Capitol, right? And the Mayor also seems in charge of executions and public punishment? But is Mayor Undersee from the Capitol? His wife isn't. For some reason I think not. Possibly because the Peacekeepers are evacuated from 12 before the bombing but he is not. Anyway, I was just thinking about it because the Mayor in Songbirds and Snakes does feel like a small-town politician who is satisfied with the ability to push everyone else around in exchange for being a Capitol stooge. But I don't get the same vibe from Mayor Undersee. (It also annoys me that his name has conflicting meanings.)

-- Gale. IDK, guys. I try to cut him some slack because he's a teenage boy and all. Plus it's not like he doesn't suffer in this chapter. But him saying Peeta's family would probably inform on them reminds me of him being rude to Madge in book one and how he knows the Capitol tries to divide them along class lines but still can't get past it. I appreciate when he says he wants to stay and fight. He's brave. But honestly I think he could use a bit more Haymitch and Peeta, people who are more cautious and thoughtful. But those are the people he scorns most. And I can see why he would be resentful of Peeta but why Haymitch? Shouldn't he bet at least a little bit grateful that Haymitch recently helped save Katniss's life?

Quotes:

"It was my aunt's," she said. "But I think it's been in my family for a long time."

I feel like there is a story here. Whatever it is, I don't think Madge knows it fully herself.

"Gale, I can't think of anyone like that now. All I can think about, every day, every waking minute since they drew Prim's name at the reaping, is how afraid I am. And there doesn't seem to be room for anything else. If we maybe I could be different. I don't know."

I always think about Maslow's hierarchy of needs and how Katniss is very focused on survival and safety, can't move up to love before those needs are met.

You haven't hurt people--you've given them an opportunity. They just have tobe brave enough to take it. There's already been talk in the mines. People who want to fight. Don't you see? It's happening! It's finally happening! If there's an uprising in District Eight, why not here? Why not everywhere?

Gale it's wrong here. And he's not wrong to want to overthrow the Capitol...

He throws Cinna's gloves at my feet. "I changed my mind. I don't want anything they made in the Capitol."

... and then he loses me because I love Cinna and I know what is going to happen to him. Cinna sacrifices more for the Rebellion than Gale. Simply being from the Capitol doesn't make him evil.

[venus-is-thinking]

Disventure Camp All Stars Power Ranking (Round 12 - Venus)

Hey everybody! @accirax got me into yet another media! Truly shocking!

Basically, power rankings are a way of guessing who will be next eliminated in the YouTube series, Disventure Camp All Stars (the third season of Disventure Camp). I only just caught up as of last episode, so this is my first time doing the power rankings! If you want, you can look at mine and accirax's as a sort of versus situation; we didn't consult until after we finished writing these.

But, basically, the characters will be ranked from 1 to 9, with 1 being least likely to go home and 9 being most likely to go home. At the end of the next episode, I gain points equal to the ranking of the player eliminated. At the end of the show, you get to see how many points you won.

Anyways, let's jump into it! Unlike accirax, I don't really get a whole lot other than excitement out of the trailers, so I'm gonna be going straight for the ranking and analysis.

1: Grett

Honestly, it kinda surprises me that I'm putting Grett at the very top, but it makes sense to me. After all, I feel like one of the biggest plot arcs going on right now is the tension between Grett and Yul, in which you're obviously supposed to root for Grett and against Yul. Obviously Grett could go out and Gabby could avenge her or something, but... eh.

Even beyond that meta reason, I don't really understand why people would be voting Grett. She's not especially threatening in challenges, nor is she the one running the villains' alliance. The best reason I can think of is the classic Survivor "vote for the least likely target so that they misplay an idol," but like... the villains don't need an idol right now. They have the numbers. They'd only need an idol if they flip someone (likely Gabby flipping to take out Yul, who would actively not want to target Grett) or if the heroes find an idol. It really seems like they aren't putting multiple idols in the game at the same time, so that would guarantee the villains wouldn't have one, meaning that the heroes could have their pick of targets. Why pick Grett in that case?

2: Gabby

Hopefully I am not in danger putting Gabby very high as accirax was last week. I think we're good from a meta level, though.

Gabby has very clearly been considering flipping on the villains and going back to the heroes, both for Grett's sake to get rid of Yul and because Ellie told her to watch her back and not truly trust the villains. Paired with Gabby being friendly with Tom at his elimination, rather than continuing to seek vengeance for Ellie, it really seems like her flipping is in the cards here. And, because the heroes need to get back on top eventually, I think that flip is going to go through successfully, rather than the villains taking her out as a preemptive strike or something.

It's definitely possible that if Gabby doesn't flip this episode, she might receive the heroes' votes again for... unknown reasons. I still don't super understand why they voted for her last time. But, if Gabby doesn't flip, I find it unlikely that the heroes would have the numbers to actually oust a villain, which means Gabby should be safe.

3: Jake

Mr. Plot Armor himself. Welcome back to the high parts of the list.

The thing is, even if Jake's meta armor is arguably wearing thin (he's already got things as resolved as they're probably gonna get for a while with Tom, and he's learning to make up with Aiden quickly), I don't really see the in-game reason for the villains to target him. Like... Jake is annoying and gullible. He causes the most rifts in the heroes' alliance, by far. Even if the villains have the numbers, it's still good to keep someone like that in the game so that, once the villains start looking to turn on each other, you don't have to worry as much about the straggling heroes pulling together the numbers for an uprising.

Also, if I had to guess, Jake is still going to be in the main game at the time of the losers' motel episode. I've been theorizing that that's going to be around final 5 or so; it'll be at a point where everyone who isn't in the very late game can be in it. This is because I think it's going to be a major place to wrap up plot threads/get people ready for the plot threads to be wrapped up in the season finale, so you want to make sure all your viable characters are in place to get their character development.

It's definitely possible that Tom and Jake are going to make up in the losers' motel episode. That would be the most viable reason for Jake to be there, in my opinion. My personal take, though, is that Tom will probably get himself to be really ready to talk to Jake in the losers' motel episode, probably talking to Miriam again or something, and then Jake would pick Tom as his person in the finale, and they could make up there.

In any case, I'd be pretty surprised if Jake went down here, for both in-universe reasons and for meta reasons. He's just at the center of so many plot threads. I think they want to take the time to set up some more, new plot threads before cutting Jake, if they intend to do so.

4: Connor

I'm going to open this by saying that I have no idea what to make of Connor as a character. I never have, and it's quite possible I never will. So, sorry Connor stans, I have NO idea where this man is going.

However! I do know that if they're going to burn their back from the dead slot on Connor, they're planning on him doing... something. Like, literally anything. I guess he did pull the heroes together to vote together last time, but... they didn't actually eliminate a villain to seize the majority. I just feel like if his fate was to rally the heroes, then immediately get kicked out again before reaping any of the benefits, it would feel... weird? Like, he should get at least one victory. He has to talk to Riya, at least, and from the trailer, it doesn't seem like there's a big impending Connor/Riya conversation.

So, I kinda have Connor here strictly for narrative reasons. My biggest hesitation with putting him so high is the part last episode where Riya and Yul talk about how dead Connor is once he doesn't have immunity, which was important enough dialogue that it made the episode trailer. That definitely seems... shady, for Connor's survival odds. But also, it seems like he's kicking Yul's ass in the episode preview, so maybe Connor just wins and that prophecy waits for another day!

5: Alec

This is definitely not just me believing in Alec's viability to survive. This is definitely based on logic and evidence. (<- is an Alec stan)

I was worried about him last episode, but I believed he'd make it out alive, and look! He did! He won immunity! He probably won't win a third one in a row, but I think that last immunity bought him some time.

Now that the villains have the majority, they have to lose it or face an idol in order to lose it. I think an idol would feel kind of cheap here, though; the villains won the tie 5-5 vote twice already. Having them lose that lead AGAIN to an idol, putting the numbers back even at 4-4, is a bit repetitive. I don't really know which of the villains would flip on Alec specifically to take him out, or at least at this point. I could definitely see a late game situation where, Fiore style, Riya flips on Alec to take him out as the biggest threat to win, but for right now, Alec is a useful ally. He's proven repeatedly that he's loyal to the villains alliance and can help out other villains, like how he helped Gabby win the tiebreaker challenge.

I definitely feel like Alec is being set up to be the main villain of the season. That could mean he's the first villain of the post-merge villains' alliance to be defeated, but I think it's much more likely he'll make a deeper run.

6: Riya

I didn't really know where to put Riya. I don't feel like there's a whole lot keeping her in the game, necessarily, but I also don't feel like she's in imminent danger. Six it is, I guess.

Basically, I think if a villain is going to go home this episode, it'll be Yul. He's the one who's had his downfall most specifically set up, and I think the heroes are going to take the advantage by flipping Gabby to take him out. As a result, I feel like the other villains are pretty safe, all things considered. Riya was much more threatened when the heroes could take their shot at anyone on the 50/50. Now that the villains have the advantage, Riya has much more built-in protection.

I'm not sure exactly where Riya is going to place overall. She made a deep run last time, but she also wasn't behaving the same way for most of last game, so they might want her to make a genuine deep run again. Then again, it's not like anyone who's made it this far is having a short run, and I could easily believe they'll call it quits on Riya content sometime soon. Especially given that Riya and Aiden might be talking again this episode-- that's one of the major plot threads with her that still feels unresolved. I guess she should also technically be safe until she talks to Connor, based on my Connor logic?

7: Ally

Let it be known that I struggled with exactly how to rank these last three. I think that any of them could very plausibly be going out this episode.

My big hangup with Ally in both directions is that I feel like she hasn't done much of anything for a while. The most memorable thing she's done in recent memory is talk to Tess during the returnee challenge and yell at Jake in the space challenge. Since her relationship with Jake is kinda being treated as the less important version of Jake and Aiden's, I don't really know where that leaves her. Plus, her most important connections are to people in the losers' motel.

Something that's working against Ally is that I do think she'll be in the losers' motel by the losers' motel episode. Things haven't been resolved between her and Hunter (and Tess. Believe in the polycule), and they pretty clearly indicated that they wanted to wait until after the game to discuss things further. That means this isn't a character relationship struggle that we can realistically solve during the finale challenge; they need to talk this out AFTER the game. Plus, Ally's fixation with how the audience is perceiving her means that it might be interesting to see her get to actually witness the audience's opinions of her, which is only possible from outside of the game.

That being said, none of that means Ally needs to get booted this episode. She easily could, but it's also very possible she's still got more plot to get through.

The biggest thing threatening Ally, imo, is that she's the most generically expendable hero at this point. If the writers want another round of "yeah, the heroes are still losing" and a round where the status quo doesn't really change, Ally is the best boot option. That being said, I feel like we're entering a time period where the writers do want to shake up the status quo, which is why I don't have her at the very bottom.

8: Yul

I thought Yul was 100% going home last episode. Then, I thought he was 100% going home this upcoming episode. Now, I think he's most likely to go home the episode after that.

Yul is very clearly gonna get flipped on and eliminated one of these days. His villainy is too villainous, and much like Alec worried about, if Yul sucks too much, all the villains are gonna have to pay the price for it. We're at 9 now. Why wouldn't Gabby flip now and send Yul home? It's definitely a possibility, and a pretty likely one at that.

The thing is, Gabby taking out Yul for Grett's sake isn't necessarily the whole story. I feel like part of the point with Grett is that she needs to stand up for herself, too. The reason why I like Yul going down at final 8 instead of final 9 is that you'd need Grett to flip, too, to send Yul home. I think it'd leave the game state in a much more interesting place if Gabby and Grett agree to flip to take out Yul, but afterwards, the villains still have a tentative majority if they decide to work together. It makes it much more nuanced than "Gabby flips on Yul and now the heroes have the advantage for the rest of the game."

That being said, it's very possible I'm just overthinking this and Yul's ass is GONE. I'd definitely believe it. Part of me still kinda thinks that's the most likely, even if it's not the verdict I actually ended up going with.

9: Aiden

Sorry king, but you might be slaying too close to the sun.

If I'm right and the Gabby flip doesn't happen this episode, that means a hero is almost certainly going down. I don't think it'll be Jake or Connor, which really left it between Ally and Aiden. My basic logic is that Aiden feels like he has more plot threads wrapping up.

Aiden has been playing for himself for a while now, after his declaration post-James and Lake boots. He was friends with Tom, he's making up with Jake, he's confronting Riya. That's, like, most of what he's got going on this season. It's definitely possible that the reason they're investing more in Jake and Aiden's relationship than Jake and Ally's is because they're going to last longer, but personally, I'm more thinking it's because Aiden is going to get voted off first.

Plus, I feel like he's a pretty good target for the villains. Most people like Aiden and want to work with him, plus he seems like someone who'd be pretty opposed to working with any of the villains under any circumstances. The villains are going to have to choose who to target. If I'm roughly hypothesizing that Connor wins immunity, and Jake is the most likely to cause fractures in the heroes' alliance, that only leaves Ally or Aiden. I think, if I were the villains, I'd be more likely to see Ally as a potential asset and Aiden as a potential threat than the other way around.

Besides, I do think it's possible that they're going to want to use losers' motel episode to get the audience some Jaiden content. We didn't get much in the returnee episode, soooo...

Wrap-Up

Thanks for listening! I'm excited to be able to watch Disventure Camp in real time from here on out, especially given that we're getting new content every week. I'm just gonna put some other half-baked theories at the end here as bonus content because I don't have enough to make a whole post:

I think Jake is the most likely winner pick, but I also think Gabby is a really viable winner. She's going to be a pivotal piece of why the villains took charge when they did, and, I suspect, a pivotal piece of why the heroes were able to fight back. Narratively, that could make her a satisfying winner pick. It would also be a way to potentially get Ellie some of the money without Ellie having to continue to subject herself to the game, which has proven to be bad for her.

I think Derek is going to get offered a promotion-- specifically, taking Emily's place, to an extent. I forget exactly what Emily was supposed to be handling (the confessionals, maybe?), but the fact of the matter is, there should be a non-intern spot opening up in the payroll. This would be a natural but concrete way to continue escalating Derek getting favored over Trevor, which I think is good. Derek and Trevor's plotline is probably supposed to last for most of the season, which means we still need a lot more developments before it can be properly resolved.

Alec will adopt Fiore. Alec WILL adopt Fiore. Alec will--

This isn't a theory, but I do wonder if the fact that Connor hypothetically should still own the losers' motel will be relevant at all ever? That was probably just a one-off joke, but still.

Rambles over! Looking forward to the next episode!

[animefu]

Hey, my lovelies how was your weekend so far? Mine was decent, nothing special really, but on a sidenote, its a little annoying that the weather isn't really in a good condition right know. It's freaking cold in my room most of the time, because the heating isn't that great here. BTW I don't mean my room at home, but the one in boarding school because I'm currently doing my vocational training in Potsdam. (I'm now in my second year of training) and the heating here is anything but heat-giving, to put it carefully, at least in winter. That's exactly why I caught a cold again, just so close before Christmas. Well, at least my weekend is a little longer because I have the last additional vacation for this year tomorrow Monday, so that should be enough for me to be fit again for vocational school on Tuesday.

Anyways I just want to inform you guys, that I have now completed the fourth Part of 'Pokémon Horizons - The Sudden Turn' featuring Amethios character development. Feel free to check it out. It's currently still attached at the top of my blog.

Part 5 is already in the works, so please look forward to that as well.

Oh and to add on a last note, I also have an AO3 Account, where I have posted the Story as well, so you can gladly check it out on there too, if you want. This is the name of my account: 👇🏻👇🏻

'Joy_Anime'

With that being said, enjoy your weekend and we will read each other very soon in Part 5 of 'Pokémon Horizons - The Sudden Turn'. 🤗🤗🤗

Your dearly @animefu